Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Emergency operations underway for flood-hit villages in north China's Tianjin Xinhua) 08:41, July 29, 2025 Staff members are on duty at an emergency headquarters in Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) Emergency workers are on duty at Xiaying Village of Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) Staff members prepare food and water at a school-turned relocation site in Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) People make bed at a school-turned relocation site in Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) Volunteers deliver disaster relief supplies at a school-turned relocation site in Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) An aerial drone photo taken on July 28, 2025 shows a road and a bridge affected by flood at Xiaying Village of Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) A resident clears silt at Xiaying Village of Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) An aerial drone photo taken on July 28, 2025 shows a road and a bridge affected by flood at Xiaying Village of Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) On July 27, 2025, Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced on X that Samsung's factory in Taylor, Texas, would produce Tesla's next-generation AI6 chips. The announcement triggered a positive market reaction, with Samsung Electronics' stock rising by more than 6%. Samsungs giant new Texas fab will be dedicated to making Teslas next-generation AI6 chip. The strategic importance of this is hard to overstate. Samsung currently makes AI4. TSMC will make AI5, which just finished design, initially in Taiwan and then Arizona. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 28, 2025 In his X post, Musk stated, "Samsung's giant new Texas fab will be dedicated to making Tesla's next-generation AI6 chip. The strategic importance of this is hard to overstate. Samsung currently makes AI4. TSMC will make AI5, which just finished design, initially in Taiwan and then Arizona." A follow-up post on July 27, 2025, at 23:36 EDT, added, "Samsung agreed to allow Tesla to assist in maximizing manufacturing efficiency. This is a critical point, as I will walk the line personally to accelerate the pace of progress. And the fab is conveniently located not far from my house ." Musk further clarified the deal's value on July 28, 2025, at 02:06 EDT, noting, "The $16.5B number is just the bare minimum. Actual output is likely to be several times higher." Samsung agreed to allow Tesla to assist in maximizing manufacturing efficiency. This is a critical point, as I will walk the line personally to accelerate the pace of progress. And the fab is conveniently located not far from my house Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 28, 2025 The $16.5B number is just the bare minimum. Actual output is likely to be several times higher. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 28, 2025 A multi-billion-dollar semiconductor foundry production and supply contract between Tesla and Samsung, effective from April 24, 2023, to December 31, 2033, underpins the partnership. Samsung Electronics will supply chips to Tesla in a multi-year deal valued at $16.5 billiona figure Musk described as "just the minimum amount"marking the largest single-customer contract in Samsung's semiconductor division, per Forbes. The agreement allows Tesla to collaborate on-site to enhance manufacturing efficiency, as Musk noted in his X post. Industry observers view the deal as a significant step for Samsung's foundry business, which has struggled to compete with TSMC in the AI chip market. "This shows that Samsung Electronics has been elevated from a simple chip supplier to Tesla's next-generation AI computing partner. Beyond simply making a generation higher chips than TSMC, they are in a position to preempt technology trends," an industry insider told Maeil Business. Tesla designed the AI6 chip to support autonomous driving functions in its electric vehicles and to scale for use in humanoid robots and AI data centers. The company has planned the next two generations of its autonomous computer, with the AI6 chip expected to begin equipping vehicles in 2027. Samsung's semiconductor factory in Taylor, Texas, where production is scheduled to commence next year, aligns strategically with Tesla's headquarters in Austin, Texas. Samsung's move into foundry chip manufacturing is part of a broader strategy to expand beyond its stronghold in memory semiconductors. The multi-year contract with Tesla, estimated at 22.76 trillion won, is projected to account for approximately 7.6% of Samsung Electronics' annual sales for 2024. The company aims to secure additional global big tech customers, such as Qualcomm and NVIDIA, amid rising demand for artificial intelligence semiconductors. Samsung Foundry has faced yield degradation issues since the 5-nanometer process and recorded annual losses of tens of trillions of won. The Tesla contract renews hopes for a turnaround at the delayed Texas factory. "The fact that Samsung Foundry, which has been questioned for its competitiveness, has achieved the result of winning the Tesla chip order is a positive signal. As demand for artificial intelligence-related semiconductors continues to increase, this contract acts as a favorable wind, increasing the possibility of additional orders," said Kim Yang-pyung, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade. UPDATE - AUGUST 6: This morning, the Washoe County Sheriffs Office formally booked Nicholas Loving on an additional charge of open murder, four months after the death of his daughter, Izabella Loving. The charge follows the completion of a joint investigation by law enforcement and the Washoe County Regional Medical Examiners Office, which previously ruled Izabellas death a homicide. District Attorney Chris Hicks and Sheriff Darin Balaam both released powerful public statements reaffirming their commitment to justice for Izabella, who died in April under what authorities described as severe abuse and neglect. Statement from District Attorney Chris Hicks: My entire office stands with the community in mourning the heartbreaking loss of Izabella Loving. Her death is a terrible tragedy that has shaken us all. I want to express my deep gratitude to the Washoe County Sheriffs Office and the Regional Medical Examiners Office for their relentless efforts and unwavering dedication throughout this difficult investigation. From the onset, my team has worked hand-in-hand with investigators to ensure that every step taken in this case is thorough, deliberate, and grounded in the pursuit of truth. Justice for Izzy remains our highest priority. Based on the evidence gathered so far, we have officially charged Andrea Loving with Child Abuse or Neglect with Substantial Bodily Harm or Death. In addition, we will be filing a formal charge of First-Degree Murder against Nicholas Loving this week. While we must keep certain details confidential to protect the integrity of the ongoing legal process, we remain committed to transparency and will continue to share updates with the public as we are legally able. Statement from Sheriff Darin Balaam: Today is the next step in finding justice for Izzy. This heart-wrenching case of child abuse and cruelty deeply affected not only our community, but also our dispatchers, the deputies responding, investigators, crime scene investigators, crime lab, the Regional Medical Examiners Office, members of the District Attorneys Office, and now those involved within the court system. From day one, I made the commitment that we would labor relentlessly to investigate this case and work tirelessly to be the voice for and bring justice to Izzy. The collaboration throughout this case so far has been outstanding. As this case continues to move forward, we will not stop devoting ourselves to Izzy and achieving justice for her. Lastly, I would like to mention one thing we have learned from this case and a major reason I am making this statement today. Right now, there is a child in our community or any number of communities in our nation who is being abused or neglected. Im pleading with every parent, adult, and our society that we must commit to being active advocates for our children. If you see something, say something. Every child in every home no matter their socio-economic status, race, gender, or nationality deserves to live their childhood free of abuse and neglect. I know that for the men and women who work throughout the Sheriffs Office, Izzy and so many other tragic cases they have witnessed or investigated are their constant motivation to be that advocate and protector of our children, and Im asking every member of our community to continue to be as well. To the individuals who called on the Izzy case, I want to say to you, although we had the tragic outcome, thank you for being her advocates. We join you and will continue to be her advocates throughout the entire criminal justice process. Given the ongoing investigation and sensitive nature of this event, we will have no additional comment today. UPDATE - AUGUST 5: Bail has been set at $2 million for Andrea Loving, mother of Izabella Loving, who is facing charges of child abuse following the death of her daughter in an April homicide. Bail was set with no 10 percent cash option and with conditions. Those conditions include Department of Alternative Sentencing supervision, home confinement with a GPS device, no contact with Nicholas Loving, who is also facing child abuse charges, and no contact with her children unless authorized by the Human Services Agency. Andrea Loving's next scheduled court appearances are a motion hearing on August 12 and a mandatory status conference on August 14. UPDATE - JULY 30: The Washoe County coroner has ruled the death of five-year-old Izabella Loving as a homicide. The medical examiners office says the little girl she died due to bacterial pneumonia, but multiple blunt force injuries, malnutrition and dehydration, and medical neglect significantly contributed to her death. As we've been reporting, Izabella's mother, Andrea Loving is now facing charges of child abuse alongside Izabella's father, Nicholas Loving. Andrea was expected in court Wednesday morning for a bail hearing, but that has been pushed back to August 5th. Afterwards, Washoe County District Attorney Chris Hicks released this statement: "While we are unable to comment on an active prosecution, we remain steadfast in our commitment to securing full justice for Izabella Loving. As the case progresses, we will continue to keep our community informed to the extent that we are able, while staying in the parameters of the law." UPDATE - JULY 28: The mother of Izabella Loving, a five-year-old who was found dead at a Cold Springs home in April, has been charged with abuse as part of the investigation into the toddler's death. Deputies walked Andrea Loving into the Washoe County Sheriff's Office Detention Center on Monday evening. She is facing charges of child abuse resulting in substantial bodily harm. Deputies previously arrested Nicholas Loving, Izabella's father. He is also facing child abuse charges. The investigation is ongoing. UPDATE - APRIL 16: The Washoe County Sheriff's Office and Washoe County District Attorney have released an update on the ongoing investigation of Izabella Loving who died earlier this month. Sheriff Darin Balaam: On behalf of the Washoe County Sheriffs Office, I want to provide an update to our community regarding the ongoing investigation into the tragic death of Izabella Loving. Our detectives continue to work diligently and with unwavering commitment to uncover the full truth and secure justice for Izabella. We are collaborating closely with District Attorney Chris Hicks and his team to build a strong, evidence-based case for prosecution. This process involves a meticulous review of all available evidence, including forensic findings, witness statements, and the conclusions of the medical examiner. We recognize the profound impact this case has had on our community, and we want to assure the public that we are fully dedicated to achieving a just outcome. District Attorney Chris Hicks: Like so many in our community, we are devastated by the loss of Izabella Loving and remain fully committed to ensuring accountability for those responsible. Our most experienced prosecutors are working in close coordination with the Washoe County Sheriffs Office to support a comprehensive and thorough investigation. Once all evidence has been reviewed, we will carefully determine the appropriate charges in accordance with the law. We understand the communitys need for answers, and while certain details must remain confidential at this stage, we will continue to provide updates as legally permissible. UPDATE - APRIL 9: District Attorney Chris Hicks issued the following statement Wednesday regarding the ongoing investigation into the death of a child, with signs of physical abuse : "Like so many in our community, my office was heartbroken to hear of the death of Izabella Loving and the terrible injuries she suffered. A complete and thorough investigation is critical to pursuing justice for this victim and it is our highest priority. As such, my offices most experienced prosecutors are working closely with Sheriffs Office detectives as they complete their investigation. The District Attorneys Office will then methodically review the evidence and ensure all legally viable charges are pursued. We will keep the community updated to the extent we can, but are not able to specifically comment on Lovings case. Generally speaking, initial charges filed in a case can be amended or added at a later date. Prosecutors must meet high burdens of proof at every stage, particularly when filing charges. These additions or changes are often based on results from further investigation, advanced forensic testing or, in the case involving a death, a coroners report or expert reviews. ORIGINAL STORY - APRIL 4: The Washoe County Sheriff's Office says a man was arrested for child abuse after a child died on Thursday. On April 3rd at around 6:50 a.m., deputies say they responded to a home in Cold Springs following a report of an unresponsive child. Officials say when deputies and medical personnel arrived on scene, life-saving measures were unsuccessful, and the child was pronounced dead. Investigators say during the investigation, detectives discovered significant signs of physical abuse on the child. The child's father, Nicholas Loving, was arrested and booked into the Washoe County Detention Facility for alleged Child Abuse Resulting in Substantial Bodily Harm. Sheriff Darin Balaam said, This is an unimaginable and heartbreaking case of abuse that tragically ended in the loss of a child. Our hearts are heavy for the loss of such a young, innocent life. As we all mourn this tragedy, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to justice. We will ensure that the victim is not forgotten and that accountability is fully pursued. This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the WCSO Detective Division at (775) 328-3320 and reference case number #25-1634. BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) Former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe was convicted of witness tampering and bribery Monday in a historic trial that gripped the South American nation and threatened to tarnish the conservative strongmans legacy. The ruling followed a nearly six-month trial in which prosecutors presented evidence that Uribe attempted to influence witnesses who accused the law-and-order leader of having links to a paramilitary group founded by ranchers in the 1990s. Uribe, 73, was not in court in the capital, Bogota, for the verdict as the judge has so far not ordered his arrest. He followed the ruling from his home outside Medellin but did not immediately speak about it. Uribe faces up to 12 years in prison but a sentencing will be delivered in a separate hearing. He is expected to appeal the ruling. The former president, who governed from 2002 to 2010 with strong support from the United States, is a polarizing figure in Colombia, where many credit him for saving the country from becoming a failed state, while others associate him with human rights violations and the rise of paramilitary groups in the 1990s. While the ruling was read, Uribe's opponents clashed briefly with his supporters outside the courthouse. In a ruling that lasted more than 10 hours, Judge Sandra Heredia said there was enough evidence to determine that Uribe conspired with a lawyer to coax three former members of paramilitary groups who were in prison into changing testimony they had provided to Ivan Cepeda, a left-wing senator who had launched an investigation into Uribes alleged ties to a paramilitary group. The case dates to 2012, when Uribe filed a libel suit against Cepeda with the Supreme Court. But in a twist, the high court dismissed the charges against Cepeda and began investigating Uribe in 2018. During Uribe's presidency, Colombias military attained some of its biggest battlefield victories against Latin Americas oldest leftist insurgency, pushing the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia into remote pockets and forcing the groups leadership into peace talks that led to the disarmament of more than 13,000 fighters in 2016. Known for his tireless work ethic and short temper, Uribe still has legions of followers in Colombia and is one of the fiercest opponents of the current president, former leftist guerrilla Gustavo Petro. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reacted to the ruling, as it became evident that Judge Heredia was going to find the former president guilty of bribery. Uribes only crime has been to tirelessly fight and defend his homeland Rubio wrote on Monday on X. The weaponization of Colombias judicial branch by radical judges has now set a worrisome precedent. Colombian President Gustavo Petro defended the ruling, writing on X that a strong justice system will enable Colombia to emerge from violence. He added in another message that Rubio was interfering with Colombia's sovereignty. The world must respect the judges of Colombia" Petro wrote. Heredia said that her ruling should not be interpreted as a victory for anyone but as an act of justice. Critics also blame Uribe for state crimes. According to a truth commission created in 2017, more than 6,400 civilians were executed by the Colombian military and identified as members of rebel groups by soldiers seeking promotions during the conflict, in a phenomenon that peaked during the Uribe administration. Prosecutors accused Uribe of sending lawyers to meet with imprisoned former paramilitary henchmen and pressure them to drop testimony that they had provided to Senator Cepeda. During the trial, Uribe denied trying to flip witnesses but acknowledged seeking interviews with the men as part of his preparation for trial and to verify testimonies that were also being used in a murder trial against his brother, Santiago Uribe, who was also accused of ties to the armed paramilitaries. Cepeda spoke to journalists after the ruling, and said that he would continue to fight for truth and justice" for victims of Colombia's conflict. No one can defy and taint the rule of law, he said. Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america NEW DELHI (AP) Three suspected militants killed in a gunbattle in the disputed region of Kashmir were responsible for a shooting massacre in which more than two dozen people died and that led to a military clash between India and Pakistan earlier this year, a Indian government official said Tuesday. The Pakistani nationals were killed Monday in a joint operation by the military, paramilitary and police on the outskirts of Kashmirs main city of Srinagar, Home Minister Amit Shah said in Indias lower house of parliament. The Associated Press couldnt independently verify the details. Rifle cartridges found at the site matched those used during the killings in April, Shah said. The bodies of the men were identified by residents who had provided food and shelter to them before they carried out the massacre, he said. It wasn't clear whether the locals were considered accomplices. There was no immediate response from Pakistan's government. But state-run Pakistan Radio reported after the gunbattle on Monday that India had planned fake encounters targeting Pakistani nationals held in Indian prisons. It provided no further details. Pakistan has long accused India of staging gunbattles in Kashmir and sometimes pulling Pakistani prisoners from Indian jails and killing them in faked shootouts while passing off them as combatants. New Delhi has regularly rejected these allegations and accused Pakistan of sending armed militants into India and orchestrating attacks. The massacre more than three months ago killed 26 people, mostly Hindu tourists. India blamed the attack on Pakistan, which denied responsibility, while calling for a neutral investigation. It led to tit-for-tat military strikes by India and Pakistan that brought the nuclear-armed rivals to the brink of their third war over the region. Dozens of people were killed on both sides until a ceasefire was reached on May 10 after U.S. mediation. The four days of fighting between the nuclear-armed rivals was their worst in decades. Before the April 22 killings in the Kashmiri resort town of Pahalgam, fighting had largely ebbed in the regions Kashmir Valley, the heartland of an anti-India rebellion, and mainly shifted to the mountainous areas of Jammu in the last few years. India and Pakistan each administer part of Kashmir, but both claim the Himalayan territory in its entirety. Militants in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir have been fighting New Delhis rule since 1989. India describes militancy in Kashmir as Pakistan-backed terrorism an accusation that Islamabad denies. Many Muslim Kashmiris support the rebels goal of uniting the territory, either under Pakistani rule or as an independent country. Tens of thousands of civilians, rebels and government forces have been killed in the conflict. Munir Ahmed contributed to this report from Islamabad. Capital Raising Update Perth, July 28, 2025 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Vertex Minerals Limited ( ASX:VTX ) ( VTXXF:OTCMKTS ) confirms that on 28 July 2025 it received A$3.9 million (before costs) through the issuance of new ordinary Shares as part of the A$11 million capital raising ("Capital Raising") announced by the Company on 12 May 2025 and approved at the General Meeting which took place on 21 July 2025. The Capital Raising had also included the earlier issuance of A$3.5 million in Convertible Loans, bringing total proceeds received to date from the financing initiative to approximately A$7.5 million. With respect to the A$3.9 million secured on 28 July 2025, 18,377,562 fully paid ordinary shares were issued by the Company ("Shares") at A$0.21 per Share. At the commencement of the Capital Raising, associates of the Company's cornerstone investor and largest shareholder with 17% of the shares on issue (Gleneden Nominees Pty Ltd) committed to subscribe for A$3.6 million of Shares. Timing for receipt of these funds has now been revised to on or before 15 September 2025, as is provided for in an agreement entered on 27 July 2025 between the Company and Gleneden Nominees Pty Ltd. The Company has also retained its ability to place the remaining A$3.6 million to other interested investors (on the same terms as the Capital Raising). Receipt of the A$3.9 million, along with the $3.5 million Convertible Loan component of the Capital Raising, has provided the Company with financial liquidity for the near-term restart of the high-grade Hill End Gold Project, at a time of an historically strong A$ gold price. About Vertex Minerals Limited Vertex Minerals Limited (ASX:VTX) is an Australian based gold exploration company developing its advanced Hargraves and Hill End gold projects located in the highly prospective Eastern Lachlan Fold Belt of Central West NSW. Other Company assets include the Pride of Elvire gold project and Taylors Rock gold/nickel/lithium project both located in the Eastern Goldfields of WA. The focus of Vertex Minerals is to advance the commercial production of gold from its NSW projects embracing an ethical and environmentally sustainable approach. Related Companies Quarterly Activities Report Perth, July 28, 2025 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Significant activities by the BPH Energy Limited ( ASX:BPH ) investees during the June 2025 quarter were as follows: Advent Energy Limited ("Advent") (BPH 35.8% direct interest) PEP-11 Permit Advent Energy Limited's100% subsidiary Asset Energy Pty Ltd ("Asset") is a participant in the PEP11 Joint Venture with partner Bounty Oil and Gas NL ( ASX: BUY ). PEP-11 interests are: Advent Energy 85 % / Bounty Oil and Gas 15% On 17 January 2025 the PEP-11 Joint Venture was given notice by NOPTA that the Joint Authority has refused the Joint Venture Applications made on 23 January 2020 and 17 March 2021 and that the PEP-11 permit would continue in force for a period of 2 months from 17 January 2025 (the "Decision"). On 12 February 2025 BPH announced that Asset had applied to the Federal Court for an Originating Application (the "Application") for judicial review pursuant to s 5 of the Administrative Decisions (Judicial Review) Act 1977 (Cth) and s 39B of the Judiciary Act 1903 (Cth) to review the Decision. The Application seeks: 1. An order quashing or setting aside the Decision; 2. A declaration that the Decision is void and of no effect; and 3. An order remitting the First Application and Second Application to the Joint Authority for reconsideration according to law. On 17 March 2025 the Federal Court made orders by consent further set out in the Company's March 2025 Quarterly Report . The parties have complied with all programing orders and the matter is now listed for hearing on the 16th and 17th September 2025. There were no further developments during the June 2025 quarter. PEP-11 continues in force and the Joint Venture is in compliance with the contractual terms of PEP11 with respect to such matters as reporting, payment of rents and the various provisions of the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Act 2006 (Cth). Cortical Dynamics Limited (Cortical) (BPH 16.4% direct interest) Technical completion of Cortical's next-generation AI enhanced brain and pain monitoring BARM 2.0 is expected over the next months. BARM 2.0 is the only solution that unifies hypnotic depth and pain response monitoring, combining EEG with AI in one system, giving clinicians real-time control over anesthesia, and hospitals a smarter, more scalable way to achieve better patient outcomes both during and after surgery. Post technical completion BARM 2.0 clinical trials are scheduled in the USA and Netherland to be followed by submissions to regulatory authorities worldwide as soon as possible. Cortical Dynamics was invited to showcase BARM 2.0 at the Australia Regulatory Device Summit 2025, that took place on the 17-18 July at ICC. In attendance were key stakeholders including the US FDA , Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and international regulators from ANVISA (Brazil), HSA (Singapore), and PMDA (Japan). This was a unique chance for Cortical to connect directly with the regulatory community and major global players in medical technology. Cortical has been selected to exhibit BARM 2.0 at the Medtech on the Hill at Parliament House event in Canberra 27-28 August 22025 organised by Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA). In attendance will be Ministers, MPs, Senators, and industry leaders for an evening networking event in Mural Hall, Parliament House. The Showcase brings together a dynamic crosssection of MTAA member companies across therapeutic areas -from Australian startups to global MedTech leaders-offering hands-on demonstrations through a curated patient journey from prevention to management, and the chance to connect directly with the people and companies driving healthcare innovation forward, as well as patients. MTAA is the peak association representing companies in the medical technology industry. MTAA aims to ensure the benefits of modern, innovative and reliable medical technology are delivered effectively to provide better health outcomes to the Australian community. Work continues on the development of CORDYAN(TM) which is Cortical Dynamic's new AI focussed predictive App initiative. Utilising proprietary state of the art AI and deep learning expertise Cortical Dynamics is developing game changing medical Apps that can be used in association with BARM 2.0 or standalone and /or be integrated into leading OEM healthcare systems and EMR (electronic medical records). CORDYAN(TM)'s development has been facilitated by matched grants from MTPConnect, Australia's premier MedTech governmental organisation and ARM-hub a federal government initiative to accelerate AI related technologies in areas of strategic importance. Clean Hydrogen Technologies (CHT) (BPH 16.2% direct interest) As of mid-2024 CHT has developed its engineering and catalyst capabilities to a stage where it has proven consistently in its pilot plant in Nashik, India to produce its 2 products; turquoise hydrogen and a carbon composite made from majority CNT (carbon nanotubes) and CNF (carbon nanofibres), where its core process has not CO2 emissions and its feedstock is the hydrocarbons from natural gas . The next stage is to build production facilities in the USA and India, both being highly industrial markets with demand for CHT's products. As such since mid-2024 CHT has been designing its production facility for India initially which will produce at the end of its Stage 1 build will produce 820 tonnes of hydrogen and 2,462 tonnes of carbon composite. CHT plans to sell it products to the many industrial users in the State of Maharashtra India, home of its planned production site, and likely Louisiana, USA, with several site options identified. Before finalising production needs and CHT has been going through the ASME (required for operation in USA) and IS2825 (required for operation in India) review of its engineering designs where this process is almost complete. CHT is now looking to source the funding required to build its plants in the USA and India where within 3-4 months of minimal funding of US$2.5m it will start producing income, initially in India and then the USA, its primary market. *To view the full Quarterly Report, please visit: https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/0072553O About BPH Energy Limited BPH Energy Limited (ASX:BPH) is an Australian Securities Exchange listed company developing biomedical research and technologies within Australian Universities and Hospital Institutes. The company provides early stage funding, project management and commercialisation strategies for a direct collaboration, a spin out company or to secure a license. BPH provides funding for commercial strategies for proof of concept, research and product development, whilst the institutional partner provides infrastructure and the core scientific expertise. BPH currently partners with several academic institutions including The Harry Perkins Institute for Medical Research and Swinburne University of Technology (SUT). Related Companies State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Zip Code CCG has given undertakings to the Court which have the effect of freezing its assets, pending the outcome of the trial or further order of the Court. These undertakings also prohibit the promotion or sale of the scheme. The FCA claims that CCG promoted investments in static homes, which were said to be let to social housing tenants placed by local councils. Investors were promised fixed returns and told the scheme was backed by the UK Government, claims the FCA considers were false or misleading. The FCA alleges that the scheme operated as an unauthorised collective investment scheme with CCG carrying on regulated activities in the UK without the required authorisation or exemption. The FCA also alleges that the firm issued unauthorised financial promotions and made false or misleading statements and/or impressions, in breach of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA) and the Financial Services Act 2012 (FSA 2012). Alongside Ian Elliott, the FCA claims that Adrian Felix and his company Gateridge Consulting, Ayub Swaibu, Edmund Brew, Ernest Kargbo, and Raymondip Bedi and his company Riverrun Consulting were knowingly concerned in CCGs breaches. Mr Bedi was sentenced on 4 July 2025 for a separate fraud uncovered by the FCA. The FCA is seeking: Restitution orders in favour of affected investors. Declarations of contraventions. Injunctions to prevent further breaches. These proceedings are at an early stage, and no trial date has yet been set. The alleged breaches are: s.19 FSMA carrying on regulated activities in the UK without FCA authorisation or exemption s.21 FSMA issuing unauthorised financial promotions s.89 FSA 2012 making false or misleading statements s.90 FSA 2012 creating false or misleading impressions In a separate case, Raymondip Bedi was sentenced at Southwark Crown Court to a total of 5 years and 4 months imprisonment, following guilty pleas to conspiracy to defraud, conspiracy to breach s.19 FSMA, and money laundering offences. Almost all financial services firms operating in the UK must be authorised or registered by the FCA. Consumers should check the FCA Register before investing. Dealing with unauthorised firms means you are unlikely to be protected by the Financial Ombudsman Service or the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). More about unregulated collective investment schemes. The FCAs strategic objectives include protecting consumers, maintaining market integrity, and promoting effective competition. Akhilesh Yadav Slams Govt, Calls Operation Sindoor a Symbol of Intelligence Failure 2 Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the central government, calling the launch of Operation Sindoor following the Pahalgam attack a glaring symbol of its intelligence failure. Speaking during a debate in the Lok Sabha, Yadav questioned the governments decision-making, particularly asking why India ended its conflict with Pakistan so abruptly and under whose influence the ceasefire was initiated. Yadav, the former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, said the tragic Pahalgam incident was a result of a severe intelligence lapse and criticized the government for failing to prevent such attacks. Who will take responsibility for the intelligence lapse in the Pahalgam attack? he asked, stressing that such an incident should never have occurred. He further expressed concern over Indias foreign policy, claiming it has completely collapsed. Yadav didnt mince words as he referred to China as a monster that, according to him, continues to devour both Indian territory and markets. The Samajwadi Party chief argued that the cost of this intelligence failure has been the loss of precious lives and the exposure of deep vulnerabilities in Indias border strategy. Gold Heist at Unguarded SBI Branch in Andhra: Thieves Flee with Rs 38 Lakh Cash and 10 Kg Gold 2 In a daring burglary that has exposed serious security lapses, unidentified thieves looted 38 lakh in cash and 10 kilograms of gold from a State Bank of India (SBI) branch in Thumukunta village, Sri Sathyasai district of Andhra Pradesh. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. on Sunday but came to light only on Monday, according to Hindupur Sub-Divisional Police Officer KV Mahesh. The branch, shockingly operating without a security guard for the past four years, was targeted through a large, weakly-secured window that the culprits easily pried open. Surveillance footage initially captured one suspect entering the bank, who later disabled the CCTV system. Investigators believe more people joined him during the two-hour-long heist inside the bank premises. There were prior warnings, Mahesh said, revealing that the local Inspector had cautioned the branch about its inadequate security setup just three months ago. Despite this, no action was taken. The vulnerable window reportedly had flimsy grills that could be bent by handhighlighting the sheer negligence. Police have registered a case and launched a manhunt to trace the suspects behind the audacious robbery. Pahalgam Terror Mastermind Eliminated in Operation Mahadev, Amit Shah Confirms Justice Delivered 2 Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday that all three terrorists behind the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack have been neutralised by Indian security forces. Identified as Suleman (alias Asif), Jibran, and Hamza Afghaniall Pakistani nationals affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taibathe trio was gunned down in a high-intensity encounter by Army para commandos on the outskirts of Srinagar. Justice has been served, Shah declared during a debate on Operation Sindoor, a counterterrorism offensive launched in response to the April 22 massacre at Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam, which left 26 civilians, including Hindu and Christian tourists, dead. According to officials, the Army launched Operation Mahadev after intercepting satellite phone signals linked to the Pahalgam attackers. The elite 4 Para unit and personnel from the 24 Rashtriya Rifles located the group in a forested area, leading to a prolonged firefight. Among the slain was Suleman, believed to be the mastermind of the Pahalgam killings. His associate Jibran was also allegedly involved in the deadly attack on the Sonamarg Tunnel project in October last year, where seven, including a doctor, were killed. The third terrorist, Hamza Afghani, was also a key operative. During the operation, security forces recovered one M4 carbine rifle, two AK rifles, and other munitions. The terrorists bodies have been handed over to the local police for identification and further formalities as per standard procedures. Inspector General of Police (Kashmir Zone), V K Birdi, confirmed the success of the long-drawn encounter, while the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps posted on X (formerly Twitter): Three terrorists have been neutralised in an intense firefight. Operation continues. Additional reinforcements have been deployed amid inputs about more terrorists in the vicinity, as the forces continue their crackdown on cross-border terror infrastructure. Wawa expands to a second Mobile County city this week, with a grand opening set for Thursday morning. Festivities will begin at 7:45 a.m., with the new stores doors to open at 8 a.m. at 2137 Schillinger Road North in Semmes. This will be the sixth Wawa in southwest Alabama since the chain announced its move into the state and the third in Mobile County, after two locations in west Mobile. The first 100 customers will receive free T-shirts and the store will provide free hot coffee to patrons through Sunday, Aug. 3. The chain also is offering a $5 Big Breakfast Deal, which includes a Sizzli breakfast sandwich, a hash brown and any size hot or iced coffee, through Sept. 7. Participants in the opening festivities will include local officials, the chains Wally Goose mascot and representatives of the Semmes police and fire rescue departments, who will compete in a Hoagies for Heroes contest benefiting local nonprofit organizations. Wawa is a food market/gas station chain that started with a dairy market in 1964 in the Pennsylvania town of Wawa. Its a privately held company with more than 1,000 stores; most of those are in East Coast states, but in 2022 the chain announced an aggressive plan to spread across the Florida Panhandle and the central Gulf Coast. The first Alabama store opened in April 2024 in Fairhope. The chain has a large fan base of customers who praise the stores for their above-average cleanliness, service and quality food options, including made-to-order hoagies. According to information provided by Wawa, the chain plans to open 7 to ten stores in Baldwin and Mobile counties over the next three to four years. It says that each involves an investment of about $7.5 million and will employ about 35 associates. Hannah Brown and Adam Woolard visit 'Top of The Rock' at Rockefeller Center in New York City. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images) Getty Images The Bachelorette star and Alabama native Hannah Brown is officially off the market. Brown, 30, married Adam Woolard, 38, during an elegant wedding ceremony in France over the weekend after getting engaged in 2023, making the Tuscaloosa native a bachelorette no more. People reports the reality star wore three designer gowns throughout the weddings events, which included a welcome party for their 101 guests on Friday, July 25, as well as an intimate ceremony overlooking the French Riviera and three-course reception dinner on Saturday, July 26. During the ceremony, which was officiated by the couples Nashville pastor, a string quartet played The Beatles hit song Here Comes the Sun as the wedding party, which included Heather Martin from season 23 of The Bachelor, walked in as well as Gratitude by Brandon Lake when Brown made her way down the aisle and Everlasting Love by Love Affair as the couple exited. I do have a little bit of anxiety when it comes to having everyone look at me, which I know is so crazy because of the things that Ive done in my life, Brown told People. You would think with my experience of having a lot of people look at me at times, it wouldnt make me as nervous. But ... theres so much pressure for that moment to be this certain way. In addition to planning a wedding, Brown has had a very busy year already, releasing her latest novel The Four Engagement Rings of Sybil Rain and making appearances on season 10 in summer 2025 of Bachelor in Paradise as the Head of Paradise Relations. On Instagram, the University of Alabama graduate thanked Woolard, who proposed to Brown in August 2023, and others for all their support throughout the planning process alongside a video of their wedding. Every heartbreak, every tear, every twist in the journey... it was all worth it, Brown wrote in the posts caption. Thank yall for supporting me through it all. I cant believe we made it and I really cant believe how lucky I am that it ends with you. You can read more about Browns wedding on People. See more photos from the wedding weekend in the Instagram post below. Brown began dating Woolard in 2021 while living in Los Angeles. According to Cosmopolitan, Woolard works in sales and public relations and has worked as a model for several years. Brown said he attended the University of Arkansas. The former Bachelorette, Dancing with the Stars champion, Special Forces winner, author, YouTuber and podcaster has steadily added to her list of multimedia achievements that began in 2019 as a contestant during season 23 of The Bachelor. The former Miss Alabama USA first landed on the reality TV radar during season 23 of The Bachelor, attempting to win the heart of Colton Underwood. ABC producers then cast her as lead for season 15 of The Bachelorette. K-pop superstar and fashion icon JENNIE has been officially named the Honorary Tourism Ambassador of Seoul, a move that fuses her global influence with the city's growing appeal as a travel hotspot. The announcement, made by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Tourism Organization, confirms that JENNIE will front the brand-new "Absolutely in Seoul" global campaign, which will kick off on July 31. The campaign is designed to showcase the vibrant and multifaceted identity of the South Korean capital through the lens of one of its most internationally beloved stars. With JENNIE as its face, "Absolutely in Seoul" will feature a series of cinematic videos, immersive digital experiences, and eye-catching visuals that highlight everything from the city's traditional palaces and street food culture to its sleek, futuristic architecture and booming nightlife. JENNIE, who rose to global fame as a member of BLACKPINK, brings unparalleled star power to the campaign. Her influence reaches far beyond music, spanning fashion, beauty, and culture. With more than 80 million Instagram followers and high-profile collaborations with luxury brands like Chanel and Calvin Klein, she embodies the chic, trend-forward energy Seoul wants to project on the world stage. "I'm so honored to represent my home city in this way," JENNIE said in a short teaser shared by VisitSeoul. "Seoul is full of inspiration, and I can't wait to show the world what makes it so special." The first promotional film starring JENNIE will premiere on VisitSeoul TV's official YouTube channel at 1 PM KST on July 31. In the teaser, she's seen walking through some of Seoul's most iconic neighborhoodsincluding Bukchon Hanok Village and the neon-lit streets of Hongdaewhile engaging with local creatives, artisans, and food vendors. Officials say the campaign aims to attract not just K-pop fans, but global travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience. "With JENNIE's unique style and massive international fan base, we believe she can inspire a new wave of tourists to explore Seoul," said an official from the Seoul Tourism Organization. The campaign will also include limited-edition photo zones, interactive exhibits, and giveaways tied to Seoul's major festivals and shopping districts. Fans can expect exclusive behind-the-scenes content and even a virtual tour narrated by JENNIE herself in the coming months. As cities worldwide vie for tourist dollars in a post-pandemic world, Seoul's decision to enlist JENNIE feels like a power move. She isn't just a celebrity; she's a cultural ambassador whose personal brand aligns perfectly with what Seoul wants to project: bold, modern, and unmistakably Korean. With "Absolutely in Seoul" ready to launch, there's never been a better time to fall in love with the cityJENNIE-style. Originally published on Kpop Starz Alon Aboutboul, the actor best known for his role as Avi in Snowfall, has died at age 60. pic.twitter.com/2udD8kEKgL Complex Pop Culture (@ComplexPop) July 29, 2025 Alon Aboutboul, known for his role in The Dark Knight Rises, died Tuesday at the age of 60. The Israeli-born actor, also known for his role in FXs Snowfall, died after collapsing on HaBonim Beach near Tel Aviv on Tuesday morning, Aboutbouls manager Mark Teitelbaum told The Hollywood Reporter. Alon was a brilliant actor, a true artist, an Israeli iconbut more importantly, he was a loving father of his four children, and a dear friend of mine and many others, Teitelbaum told THR. He possessed both a moral and spiritual clarity that is rare to find. As you might imagine, his family is in shock. He will be deeply missed. May his memory be a blessing. According to Ynet, Aboutboul received CPR but couldnt be revived. He told bystanders, after coming out of the water, he wasnt well. It happened in an instant. He went into the water and everything seemed perfectly fine, one beachgoer told Ynet, translated via The Evening Standard." After a few minutes, he suddenly came out of the water, approached people and said he wasnt feeling well, and then they called for help. Everyone was really scared. He came out of the water and collapsed on the beach. Everyone wanted to help, and they recognized who it was when he came out of the water. This is a terrible tragedy here this morning, everyone here is in shock. ". , , . Miki Zohar (@zoharm7) July 29, 2025 Israels culture and sport minister Miki Zohar posted on X about the news. Last night, I watched an interview with him where he spoke about filming a movie he recently participated in, and the passion for his craft that radiated from him was evident even after so many years in the industry. Alon was a recipient of the Ophir Award and the Television Academy Award, and over the years, he portrayed a wide range of characters, bringing depth and emotion to them, leaving a profound mark on Israeli culture. Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on The Opening Kickoff on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily. Dignitaries gather for a photo next to the Delta Air Lines A321neo to mark the 500th aircraft built at Mobile's Airbus USA manufacturing plant on Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Mobile, Ala. John Sharp Nearly a year ago, Airbus marked a major milestone in Mobile: the 500th aircraft assembled since opening its Alabama plant in 2016. The celebration was more than a nod to past successit signaled future growth plans with the announcement of a third final assembly line on the horizon. Birmingham voters will go to the polls on Aug. 26, 2025. (Photo by Greg Garrison/AL.com) Two organizations will host a forum for Birmingham mayoral candidates on Thursday night from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Fraternal Order of Police Birmingham Lodge, 2988 Winewood Road. Were a group of citizens that find solutions for problems in our community, said Marcia Forrest, co-chair of the Committee to Save Jefferson County. We have conducted forums where candidates could meet voters to get their positions and plans for governing. She said the group has already organized four forums for City Council candidates. This event is being co-hosted with the FOP. Alabama Media Group reporter Joseph Bryant, who has more than a decade of experience covering governmental issues, will moderate the discussion. Incumbent Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin is running for a third term. Woodfin and all challengers were invited, said Forrest. Five candidates have confirmed they will attend: Jerimy Littlepage, Brian K. Rice, Lashunda Scales, Juandalynn Givan and Frank Woodson, Forrest said. Forrest said she had not heard from Woodfin and several other challengers, including Kamau Afrika, Marilyn Johnson and David Russell. She said she invited each by phone, email and letters. Birminghams municipal election is set for Aug. 26. Birminghams runoff election, if needed, would be Oct. 7. The transport driver who is accused of accidentally leaving a foster child inside her hot, locked vehicle called the family to tearfully apologize and try to explain what led to the 3-year-old boys death. The woman, who worked for The Covenant Services but has since been fired, made the call to the father of Ketorrius Starkes Jr., family attorney Courtney French confirmed. California dominates the list of Americas wealthiest suburbs, but an Alabama suburb is making its mark, according to a GOBankingRates 2025 analysis. The top 50 wealthiest suburbs have an average household income of over $260,000 and the Golden State secured 17 spots on the list. GOBankingRates analyzed data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Zillow, focusing on cities with at least 5,000 households to identify the 50 suburbs with the highest average household incomes. Mountain Brook is the only Alabama suburb to make the list. This Birmingham suburb took 30th place with an average household income of $302,510. According to Census data, this is nearly 5 times the state average of $62,212. Homes in Mountain Brook have an average value of $1,037,577, while the state average is $234,052 as reported by Zillow. Heres a closer look at the 10 wealthiest suburbs in the country: 1. Scarsdale, New York This New York City suburb tops GOBankingRates list for the second year in a row. It is family friendly and has top rated schools along with distinct Tudor architecture, according to Business Insider. The average household income is $601,193. The typical home value in this pricey suburb is $1,207,528. 2. Rye, New York Rye is another New York City suburb. Its known for its waterfront estates and old-fashioned appeal, according to real estate website Compass. The average household income in Rye is $421,259 and the average home value is $1,875,248. 3. West University Place, Texas West University Place is a walkable suburb of Houston. It is located near Rice University and home to Rice Village, a popular dining and shopping area, according to Texas Real Estate Source. Homes in West University Place have a typical home value of $982,834 with households making an average income of $417,382. 4. Los Altos, California This charming suburb of San Jose offers residents a suburban feel with plenty of parks, restaurants, and coffee shops, according to Niche. The average household income for this charming suburb is $403,512. Homes here have an average value of $4,562,702. 5. Alamo, California Alamo is located just outside of Oakland. Its known for its natural beauty and many outdoor recreational activities, according to Hamlet. The average household income in Alamo is $403,334, while the average home value is a little over $2.5 million. 6. University Park, Texas University Park is a suburb of Dallas, home to Southern Methodist University and the George W. Bush Presidential Center, according to TripAdvisor. Households in University Park average an income of $389,868. Homes in this wealthy suburb have a typical value of $2,456,871. 7. Southlake, Texas This suburb of Fort Worth is known for its affluence, luxury amenities and excellent schools, according to Dallas Luxury Living. Residents of Southlake make an average of $382,520. The average home value is $1,290,325. 8. Hinsdale, Illinois Hinsdale is located near Chicago and is one of the wealthiest in the area. It is ranked as the best place to raise a family in Illinois by Niche. The average household income is $376,366. Typical home value is $1,234,894. 9. Orinda, California Orinda is located between Berkely and Oakland. This suburb is known for its walking trails and breathtaking greenery, according to SFGATE. Households in Orinda bring in $369,073. Homes here have an average value of $1,993,154. 10. Wellesley, Massachusetts This Boston suburb has a highly rated public school district and is home to Wellesley College and Boston College, according to Home and Money. The average household income in Wellesley is $368,179 and typical home value is $2,079,414. Medical cannabis growing in the enclosed, secured facility at CRC of Alabama in Goshen. The company is one of seven licensed to grow medical marijuana in Alabama. (Mike Cason/mcason@al.com) This is a guest column Serving in law enforcement is more than just a job, it is a continuation of service, a commitment that often begins in the military and extends into civilian life. Many police officers are proud veterans who have already answered the call to defend our nation, only to return home and face new battles on our streets and within themselves. The ongoing exposure to trauma, violence, and human suffering can take a heavy toll, leaving many veterans who serve in law enforcement struggling with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. As a retired police chief and someone who has served alongside these brave men and women, I understand the weight of this invisible burden and the resilience it takes to carry it. For many veterans, cannabis is essential in managing PTSD and chronic painand it offers relief without the harsh, often addictive side effects of other medications. However, the existing federal regulations create substantial obstacles to safe and legal access, often forcing veterans to choose between their health and their benefits. That is why rescheduling cannabis from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substance Act is a necessary and long-overdue step toward ensuring veterans can access the treatments they need without fear of losing the benefits they have earned. Reclassifying cannabis would bring federal policy in line with the views of most Americans, including many Republicans. This move is supported by President Donald Trump and acknowledges that the current federal classification of cannabis is obsolete and harmful. The current federal framework creates significant barriers for veterans seeking safe and legal access to cannabis. Physicians at VA medical centers, for instance, are currently barred from recommending cannabis-related treatments. This restriction leaves former service members with limited and inadequate treatment options. Rescheduling cannabis would enable VA doctors to discuss alternative cannabis-based treatments with their patients, ensuring veterans receive the comprehensive care they deserve. Medical cannabis is a proven, safe, and common-sense personal health management option, often without the devastating side effects associated with opiate-based drugs. Rescheduling cannabis is also essential to advancing scientific research and unlocking its full medical potential. Under its current Schedule I classification, researchers face significant barriers that hinder critical studies into cannabiss therapeutic properties. Moving cannabis to Schedule III would remove many of these obstacles, enabling universities and research institutions to conduct rigorous, large-scale studies. This shift would pave the way for evidence-based breakthroughs in treatment, deepen our understanding of both benefits and risks, and ensure that future medical use is guided by high-quality scientific data rather than outdated stigma or speculation. Make no mistakethis is not about legalizing cannabis. Rescheduling is a common-sense, evidence-based step to ensure veterans suffering from PTSD, chronic pain, and traumatic brain injuries can access the care they need. It is about fulfilling our duty to those who have already fulfilled theirs. Veterans deserve every possible avenue of relief, including promising cannabis-based treatments. The science is clear, the need is urgent, and bipartisan support is strong. It is time for the White House and federal agenciesespecially the DEAto act. Rescheduling is not just a policy shift; it is a moral obligation. Our veterans have waited long enough. Randy Stroup is the former chief of police for the town of Jacksons Gap and nineteen-year veteran of the Alexander City Police Department. He is also the Founder of Cater2Cops, an Alabama based non-profit that serves law enforcement members and their families. Abercrombie & Fitch looks to open at Birmingham's The Summit this fall. The Summit Abercrombie & Fitch is moving toward opening its new Alabama location at Birminghams The Summit. The lifestyle clothing brand is aiming to begin serving customers this fall, according to The Summits Facebook account. The store will be located next to Chuys. Another exciting addition is on the way! Abercrombie & Fitch opens its only Alabama location at The Summit this fall,... Posted by The Summit - Birmingham, Al on Monday, July 28, 2025 The Summit has seen a lot of activity in 2025. Abercrombie & Fitch was announced earlier this year, along with Alo and Boll & Branch. The last Abercrombie & Fitch location in Alabama closed in the Riverchase Galleria several years ago. Earlier this month, Lululemon reopened in its new, larger location at 243 Summit Blvd. That came a month after Alo Yoga, the athletic-leisure brand made popular through social media, opened a studio. And Willow 31 specializes in womens clothing, shoes, and accessories, opened in May. Huntsville Utilities customers who make automatic payments through one of its bill partners such as Speedpay will have to reregister. The payments will have to be reestablished through HUs new app, HSVUTIL. Instructions on how to register an account and set up automatic pay through a debit card or credit card will be available in August. The reregistration is required because HU is upgrading its billing system. Disconnections have been temporarily placed on hold because of it. The upgrade is expected to be complete by Aug. 11. Credit and debit card payments will no longer be accepted through Speedpay or Western Union. Customer Service Representatives can take one-time draft payments up until Wednesday to post on Thursday. HU began removing payment kiosks last week to make room for new kiosks. The main lobby and Pulaski Payment Center will be closed Friday to the public while HU transitions to a new billing system. For customers on HUs Bank Draft Auto Pay system, payment details will be transferred automatically to the new system--no action is required on the customers part. In the event there are payment posting delays, late fees will be waived through Aug. 11. Attorney General Pam Bondi speaks to reporters as President Donald Trump listens, Friday, June 27, 2025, in the briefing room of the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) AP The Justice Department on Monday filed a misconduct complaint against the federal judge who has clashed with President Donald Trump s administration over deportations to a notorious prison in El Salvador. Escalating the administrations conflict with U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg, Attorney General Pam Bondi said on social media that she directed the filing of the complaint against Boasberg for making improper public comments about President Trump and his administration. The complaint stems from remarks Boasberg allegedly made in March to Chief Justice John Roberts and other federal judges saying the administration would trigger a constitutional crisis by disregarding federal court rulings, according to a copy of the complaint obtained by The Associated Press. The comments have undermined the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary, the complaint says, adding that the administration has always complied with all court orders. Boasberg is among several judges who have questioned whether the administration has complied with their orders. The meeting took place days before Boasberg issued an order blocking deportation flights that Trump was carrying out by invoking wartime authorities from an 18th century law. The judges verbal order to turn around planes that were on the way to El Salvador was ignored. Boasberg has since found probable cause that the administration committed contempt of court. The comments were supposedly made during a meeting of the Judicial Conference, the federal judiciarys governing body. The remarks were first reported by the conservative website The Federalist, which said it obtained a memo summarizing the meeting. Boasberg, the chief judge in the district court in the nations capital, is a member of the Judicial Conference. Its meetings are not public. The complaint calls for an investigation, the reassignment of the deportations case to another judge while the inquiry is ongoing and sanctions, including the possible recommendation of impeachment, if the investigation substantiates the allegations. Trump himself already has called for Boasbergs impeachment, which in turn prompted a rare response from Roberts rejecting the call. The complaint was filed with Judge Sri Srinivasan, chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. More than 250 Venezuelans who were deported to a Salvadoran mega-prison known as the Terrorism Confinement Center, or CECOT, were sent home to Venezuela earlier this month in a deal that also free 10 U.S. citizens and permanent residents who had been held by Venezuela. But the lawsuit over the deportations and the administrations response to Boasbergs order remains in his court. The numbers are in, and experts are signaling the biggest winners and losers from the Trump administrations new tax and spending package. At the center of Trumps megabill (sometimes called the One Big Beautiful Bill or OBBB) is the extension and temporary enhancement of tax cuts first implemented in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. by David J. Lobina One of the most annoying aspects of living in an American that is, US world is not the imperialism of it all, with US military bases in hundreds of countries and the many wars and unpunished war crimes that have come with these bases in the last 80 or so years (and lets not forget economic warfare, of course).[i] Nay, the worst thing about an American world is the cultural hegemony that stems from the immense soft power the US yields in the world and that we, as regular citizens of overseas countries, must endure. This is especially annoying when it comes to political and cultural discourse that is clearly specific to the US, and to US social and political conditions, but which often becomes, in a blink-and-you-miss-it kind of moment, almost universal. I say almost because the effects do not always hold for long, especially in non-English-speaking countries, but some issues, along with particular ways of approaching these issues, do sometimes become common talking points outside of the US, and often for longer that is merited. A case in point is the meaning and usage of three political concepts that originated, in each case, in Europe, but which have received different (and, sometimes, very different) interpretations in the US, with some of these new readings coming back to Europe in a new incarnation, with various levels of success, but sometimes replacing the original interpretations even if there is typically little justification for this to happen at all. The three concepts I want to discuss here are liberalism, libertarianism, and once again, but this time rather briefly, fascism, and my flippant conclusion will be that Americans should be a little bit less colonial and leave our word-concepts alone! Lets start with liberalism, the most common of the three, but a term that is used in a variety of ways everywhere you look in the world (no comprehensive review will be attempted here, naturally). From an etymological point of view, the word liberalism, in English, was possibly borrowed from the French liberalisme, from the early 19th century, whilst the word liberal, either as an adjective or a noun, was in use much earlier. As an adjective, the Oxford English Dictionary lists two relevant meanings of liberal, both from the 18th century: said of a person who favours social reform with a degree of state intervention, and said, also, of a person who supports individual rights and civil liberties, with a view to advocate individual freedom but with little state intervention.[ii] As a noun, and perhaps more interestingly, the OED gives us 4 relevant connotations of the word liberal: a) political or social reform tending towards individual freedom or democracy; b) in Europe, and starting in the 19th century, it was a reference to anti-monarchist parties in France and Spain, whilst now it can refer to parties that sit between socialism and conservatism; c) in Britain, the OED lists some quotes from the 19th century where the word is closer in meaning to the European sense just outlined above and, thus, to European radicalism, as discussed here, which in turn I discussed myself, briefly, here but more properly it referred to the Whig Party (now, after some transformations, the Liberal Democrats), a party that moved from the defence of individual rights and freedom from the state at its inception to advocating actual state intervention under its current guise; and d) in the US, and from the 19th century, it is often used as a synonym for socialism, but as a slur. As for the word liberalism, the OED lists two pertinent readings, both originating from the early 19th century: a) support or advocacy for individual rights, civil liberties, and reform towards freedom and democracy; and b) left-wing political views or policies. And if we move to a more continental Europe context, and in particular to the Italian and Spanish languages (my other two languages), the relevant dictionaries gloss the word liberalism (well, liberalismo) as referring to individual and social freedom, in the political context, and to private initiative with little state intervention, in economic and cultural contexts.[iii] Thats as far as the dictionaries go, but it is already noteworthy that the continental definitions dont quite separate the economic and political senses within the meaning of liberalism quite as much as the OED does there are no separate entries in the Italian and Spanish dictionaries though the general ambiguity naturally remains in any case. After all, a self-description such as Im politically conservative but socially liberal (or the other way around) is not uncommon in Europe, and whilst it is often unclear what is meant by this without further elaboration, no-one would claim that the usage is unwarranted or in error. More to the point of ideas and concepts, and to offer the just-requested further elaboration, there is often a distinction in the literature (see my discussion on Bobbio vis-a-vis the left-and-right divide) between social liberalism, which calls for a regulated market, the expansion of civil and political rights, and works towards a common good over individual interests (but it is not socialism, for capitalism is not contested) and economic liberalism, which calls instead for limited government and laissez-faire economic policies (the latter is often called classical liberalism, but the latter is a retronym). Crucially, it is the economic kind that is usually meant in continental Europe when someone uses the word liberalism, and not the social kind, as for the latter the expression social democracy is more common in European discourse (or sometimes just some reference to progressive policies; social democracy is close to socialism in aspiration, at least historically). This state of affairs, as it happens, was also more or less the case in the US, according to the Encyclopaedia Britannica, until the early 20th century, where ideas around social programmes became mainstream during the New Deal years, and ever since then the word liberalism has been associated to welfare-state policies in the US, what Europeans would simply call social democracy (see here for more on this, including an explanation as to why someone like Bernie Sanders is a social democrat rather than a socialist; Chomsky has made the same point in the past regarding Sanders; cf. this, though). So, when Donald Trump says that he likes the current Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Kier Starmer, even though, says Trump, Starmer is a liberal, what he must mean by this (I guess!) is that Starmer believes in welfare-state policies, progressive politics, and the like, and clearly not that Starmer is a classic liberal, in the economic sense. As such, Trumps description is a rather ill-fitting one, for Starmer is a Blairite, New Labour kind of person and, thus, he is hardly a social democrat, let alone a socialist. Indeed, Starmers government has tried to reduce the welfare state significantly since taking office, as Blairs governments did too (the description applies more aptly to the Liberal Democrats, as mentioned). Tellingly, some of the European politicians that Trump can count as allies unambiguously and unproblematically call themselves liberals tout court in their own language and in the context of their national politics, and what they have in mind when they do so is the economic sense of liberal, and not the social sense that Trump so despises. It is also true, however, that in an international context most Trump allies in Europe these days actually avoid the word liberal altogether, sometimes denigrating liberalism in general as much as the Trumpistas do (see, for instance, Orban on this), and this is just an example of the general phenomenon I am describing from the particular in the US to the general worldwide. There is a disassociation in the air is what I am saying![iv] A more egregious example of such a disconnect involves the concept of libertarianism. According to the OED, to start here again, the word libertarian, attested from the late 18th century, initially referred to the doctrine that human beings possess free will, it then became a reference to a defender of liberty in political and social spheres within the anarchist tradition, and then in the 1940s, and in the US only, it became associated to a doctrine regarding the protection of individual rights, the operation of the free market, and the minimisation of the role of the state a kind of politics squarely on the right. As for libertarianism itself, the OED contains three connotations: a) the human-beings-have-free-will doctrine, from the 1830s; b) advocacy for the exercise of liberty, with most references dating from the 1890s, and almost exclusively from the anarchist literature; and c) the aforementioned reading of the concept in US politics from the 1940s. If we move to continental Europe, or rather, to the Italian and Spanish languages, libertarian and libertarianism refer almost exclusively to anarchism with the latter sometimes referred to as libertarian socialism, in fact. Here Wikipedia comes in handy, especially when it comes to comparing different language versions: both the English and Italian pages make clear that libertarianism has mostly been a concept associated to a form of anarchism prior to the 20th century, when in the US, and in the US alone, to stress the point, it came to be associated to right-wing politics and capitalism (the Spanish version seems to be based on the English page, but bizarrely it has changed the order of exposition, with the bit on anarchism not appearing at the beginning but towards the end, thereby yielding a misleading view).[v] As it stands, then, libertarianism is an exclusively capitalist idea in the US, and hardly anyone there would associate it to socialism or communism (anarcho-capitalism is another typical American invention here). The influence of such usage has been stronger in English-speaking countries, where the anarchist/socialist reading has all but been lost by now, including in the UK (except, of course, in the anarchist literature, but this is clearly the minority usage now). This was clearest to me when I was studying philosophy in the UK in the early 2000s. In a political philosophy class, there was a lecture devoted to libertarianism, which I had earmarked from the beginning, given my interest inanarchism! To my surprise, the lesson was devoted to what seemed to me nothing more than a family of theories defending unbridled capitalism, including a class discussion of a paper entitled Is left-libertarianism a coherent concept? (or something like that), written by the very same lecturer who was in front of us, and the whole scene did not compute in any way for me no aspect of the lecture or the subsequent discussion proved to be coherent for me at the time. Where was, I thought, the whole Chomskyan take on how libertarianism (that is, socialist anarchism) is a development of liberalism, with Wilhem von Humboldts book, The Limits of State Action as the main example to discuss? I was clearly new to a discourse I did not know existed, but I soon realised this was pretty much a US phenomenon, even if it had made some inroads in the UK, at least in academia (academia itself is heavily dominated by US universities and scholars, of course). Soon after this realisation, I was more attuned to what was going on; when a Facebook contact chose libertarian among the list of options Facebook used to provide regarding ones political orientation, for instance, I was aware that US soft power was at play here was an American company not bothering to change the user options for an international audience, simply assuming that their terms of reference were universal (my contact, by the way, did not own up to their beliefs when I enquired about it; they said they thought they had selected librarian; he was not a librarian, but a banker). There were a few contacts from Italy or Spain espousing capitalist-libertarian ideas too, but these were a minority, their references were exclusively American (they would always start with Milton Friedman and end up with Murray Rothbard), and they were clearly and completely out of place in European discourse. But still, in English-speaking countries I simply cannot talk about libertarianism and assume my interlocutors will interpret this concept as a reference to a kind of socialist anarchism. And now, briefly, on to fascism. Not to labour the point I have made before, and not to be a bore, but: ah, I was just teasing, just go and read my posts on it here, here, and here. ***** This is just a sample, and there are many more examples of the general phenomenon I have discussed here. This phenomenon is clearly also true of many social ideas and movements that did start in the US, were then exported to other parts of the world, spreading like wildfire over the internet (and of course the internet itself is also controlled by US companies), but which in the end are oftentimes and simply not applicable in other places. In the context of European social conditions, my focus here, certain strands within the Black Lives Matter movement or Critical Race Theory, for instance, have proven to be rather inapt and have produced little of substance, and in the end importing them into Europe has been the result of projecting particular aspects of American history onto all of humankind, as John Gray has put it (this could have been the title of this post, in fact). There are other examples worth discussing, such as the American preference for equity over equality, and the spreading, again, from the US, of so-called gender identity politics, which has had a terrible effect on academic philosophy, for instance (see here, for philosophy; and here for the sad state of affairs regarding discussion around sex at UK universities). But this is for another post! In the meantime, do give us back some of our word-concepts, Americans! * But do keep Jason Stanley, though. [i] Im kidding, of course: US imperialism is the worst thing about living in an American world. [ii] In a non-political sense, the word liberal dates to the 14th century in English, with various meanings available to wit, someone who is free in giving or generous, someone of a certain occupation, education or field of study (e.g., the liberal arts), etc. [iii] The Treccani and the RAE, respectively, if you want to know. [iv] See this discussion between a European and an American scholar for a further example, albeit in another context. [v] A look at more established encyclopaedias (the Britannica, the Treccani, etc.) paints much the same picture. Enjoying the content on 3QD? Help keep us going by donating now. Another major WWE event is set to take place this weekend. The show will head to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey for a two-night SummerSlam event. Its the first time SummerSlam will take place over two days. The main event will be between Cody Rhodes and John Cena, as the contract for them was signed two weeks ago but with one stipulation: itll be a Street Fight match. Fanatics is currently running a sale on items between 25-30%. They even have some new SummerSlam gear on sale with this promotion. Heres a look at the best deals: Fanatics sale is as follows: 25% off no minimum or $30% off orders over $99. In order to get the sale price, fans will need to enter code SANDY at checkout. Be aware that not all of the 2025 SummerSlam gear is on sale, just a select few. At 8:50 p.m. on Tuesday, the National Weather Service issued an updated extreme heat warning in effect until 9 p.m. for Lauderdale, Colbert, Franklin, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison and Morgan counties. The weather service adds, "Heat index values up to 108 degrees expected." "Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses," explains the weather service. Mastering the heat: Guidelines for staying safe in high temperatures Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of fluids. Seek shelter: Stay indoors in an air-conditioned room to keep cool. Avoid sun exposure: Stay out of the sun, and make sure to check up on relatives and neighbors. Child and pet safety: Never leave young children and pets unattended in vehicles, especially when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures within minutes. Caution outdoors: If you must work or spend time outdoors, take extra precautions. Select the ideal time: When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Recognize heat-related issues: Learn to identify the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Dress for comfort: Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Additional tips for outdoor workers: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas for outdoor workers. If someone is overwhelmed by the heat, swiftly relocate them to a cool, shaded location. In emergencies, call 911 for immediate assistance. These NWS heat safety directives are essential for safeguarding your well-being when facing high temperatures. Stay well-informed and take the necessary precautions to shield yourself and others from the potential hazards of extreme heat. Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service. Extreme heat warnings have been expanded to include more of Alabama as of Tuesday afternoon. The counties in orange are under heat advisories. The counties in hot pink are under an extreme heat warning. National Weather Service Temperatures were scorching across Alabama as of Tuesday afternoon, and extreme heat warnings have been expanded to include more of the state. The National Weather Service issues extreme heat warnings when the combination of air temperatures and humidity reaches a certain point that makes it extremely hazardous for those not taking proper precautions. As of Tuesday afternoon an extreme heat warning has been expanded to include all of north Alabama, and another extreme heat warning has been added for part of central Alabama through tonight. In addition, heat advisories have been extended until Wednesday for many areas. The criteria for extreme heat warnings vary by region, but the National Weather Service in Huntsville said for north Alabama the extreme heat warning thresholds are 110+ heat index temperatures. The weather service in central Alabama issued an extreme heat warning for some of its counties in anticipation of the heat index hitting 110 degrees today. Huntsville and Muscle Shoals were some of the hottest spots in Alabama on Monday. Both had high temperatures of 98 degrees on Monday. Both cities also set records on Monday for the highest low temperatures, according to the weather service. Huntsville had a low temperature on Monday of 76 degrees, which tied the record for July 28 from 2022 and 2015. Muscle Shoals had a low temperature of 77 degrees, which also tied its record for July 28 from 2022. The rest of the state is not getting off easy, either, and is covered by heat advisories. The National Weather Service is forecasting air temperatures to peak in the mid- to upper 90s again today across most of Alabama. Here is todays high temperature forecast: Temperatures across Alabama will be mostly in the mid- to upper 90s on Tuesday. NWS However, add in humidity levels and it could feel much hotter -- up to 112 degrees, according to the weather service. And the weather service has bumped up expected high temperatures for some spots for Wednesday and extended heat advisories as well. Wednesdays highs are expected to be in the low to mid-90s. Here is the updated forecast for Wednesday: Wednesday's temperatures could be a few degrees hotter than originally forecast in some areas. NWS Here is a look at the heat advisories and warnings in place for Alabama: NORTH ALABAMA An extreme heat warning has been expanded to include all of north Alabama. NWS An extreme heat warning has been expanded to include all of north Alabama and will last until 9 p.m. The weather service in Huntsville said heat index values of 110-112 degrees will be possible in those areas this afternoon. A heat advisory will also be in effect for Wednesday until 9 p.m. for all of north Alabama. CENTRAL ALABAMA An extreme heat warning is now in effect for several central Alabama counties. A heat advisory has also been extended into Wednesday. NWS An extreme heat advisory has been issued for part of central Alabama and will be in effect until 9 p.m. Tuesday. The counties in the extreme heat warning are Marion, Lamar, Fayette, Winston, Walker, Blount, Pickens, Tuscaloosa, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Sumter, Greene, Hale, Perry, Bibb, Chilton, Marengo, Dallas, Autauga and Lowndes. The weather service in Birmingham said the heat index could hit 110 degrees in those areas this afternoon. A heat advisory will be in effect until 9 p.m. Tuesday for the rest of central Alabama. The weather service said the heat index could peak at 109 degrees this afternoon across the rest of the region. All of central Alabama will be under a heat advisory on Wednesday until 9 p.m. SOUTH ALABAMA The Heat Advisory currently in effect over inland southeast Mississippi, southwest Alabama and the western Florida panhandle has been extended through Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/xOcP0gWPwz NWS Mobile (@NWSMobile) July 29, 2025 A heat advisory has been extended for all of southwest and south-central Alabama and will now be in effect through Wednesday. The counties in the advisory are Choctaw, Washington, Clarke, Wilcox, Monroe, Conecuh, Butler, Crenshaw, Escambia, Covington, Mobile and Baldwin counties. The weather service in Mobile said the heat index could reach 109 degrees today in those areas. For southeast Alabama, another heat advisory will be in effect from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. CDT for Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Henry and Houston counties. The weather service in Tallahassee, Fla., said heat index values up to 111 are expected in that corner of Alabama today. All the world knows that the worst genocide in history is occurring right now in Gaza, courtesy of the far-right Netanyanhu Israeli government. Or is it? Genocide wasnt really invented until World War I. In 1915, during World War I, the concept of crimes against humanity was introduced into international relations for the first time when the Allied Powers sent a letter to the government of the Ottoman Empire, a member of the Central Powers, protesting massacres that were taking place within the Empire. In other words, we needed to teach the Ottomans a lesson because they were allies of the dreaded Huns, and they needed to be taught a lesson. Fortunately, experts Mark Sykes and Francois Georges-Picot got it all sorted in 1916 and carved up the Ottoman Empire for dinner. So that was all right. The odd thing is that Google ngrams doesnt notice genocide as a serious problem until the 1970s. And look: genocide didnt really take off until 1990. Im a bit old-fashioned about genocide. I believe war is war, and if our boys get killed they are heroes; if the enemys soldiers get killed, they had it coming. If our civilians get killed its a crime against humanity; if the enemys civilians get killed its collateral damage. And that goes for all wars: global, regional, civil wars, revolutionary wars, terrorism, mostly peaceful protest, and far-right insurrection. But lets get down to the facts, such as Wikipedias piece on genocides from WWI to WWII. The Armenian genocide in the Ottoman empire during and after WWI is estimated at 1.0 to 1.5 million deaths. There were 250,000 Jews killed in the White Terror during the Russian Civil War. The Soviet famine of 1930-33 arising out of the Five-Year Plan involved about 8.7 million deaths. The Japanese Three Alls policy in China in WWII involved about 2.7 million Chinese deaths. Then there was the Holocaust with 6 million Jews killed. Then the Nazis killed about 6 million non-Jews. You understand Im just hitting the high points. After World War II the experts finally defined genocide, and millions more were killed. In India during Partition only about 2.2 million were killed. My mother in Calcutta asked her Hindu servants how they were doing and they said fine. There were two Muslim families on their street and they killed them all. In Biafra, in the 1960s, from 0.5 to 3 million civilians were killed. In the late 1970s the Khmer Rouge is said to have killed 1.5 to 3 million people. In the Bangladeshi Liberation War an estimated 0.3 to 3 million people were killed. In Tibet, about 1.2 million Tibetans have been killed by the PRC. But Wiki does not mention the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution in China under the heading of genocide. In Afghanistan during the 1980s about 2 million Afghan civilians were killed by the Soviets. Im only scanning for millions, you understand. Lets take a look at the 21st-century genocides, when Google shows interest in genocide soaring. I had to scan for ,000 because I couldnt find any million-death genocides. The Russians killed about 50,000 Chechen civilians in the Chechen wars. Boko Haram killed about 62,000 Christians in Nigeria. In Darfur the death toll is estimated at 300,000. Then theres ISIL in Iraq with an estimated 19,000 deaths. Theres the Tigray region in Ethiopia with 0.4 to 0.8 million killed or starved to death. Then theres Gaza. According to over 100 international experts [Israeli government] acts likely amounted to genocide. The international experts dont give any numbers, which is odd considering that experts now have spreadsheet apps to run the numbers. Did you notice something about the numbers? In the first part of the 20th century Wikipedia reports the victims of genocide in the millions. But since World War II, apart from the exemplary record of Genocider-in-chief Mao Zedong, genocide has been in decline. And yet Google reports concern about genocide skyrocketing in the years since 1990. Whats that all about? I guess experts gotta expert. Did I mention British Prime Minister Lord Salisbury on experts? He wrote: No lesson seems to be so deeply inculcated by the experience of life as that you never should trust experts. Lord Salisbury mentioned medical experts, theological experts, military experts. But he forgot to mention international human rights experts. I say that if Lord Salisbury had been prime minister and Bismarck chancellor in 1914 we would never have had World War I. Or the Bolshevik Revolution. Or Literally Hitler. Or most of the 20th century genocides. Experts agree that Lord Salisbury did not invent the Salisbury Steak. Remember Lord Montgomery? Montys Rule One was: Dont invade Russia. Rule Two was: Dont invade China. He should have added Rule Three: Dont mess with the Jews. But experts never learn. Christopher Chantrill @chrischantrill blogs at The Commoner Manifesto and runs the go-to site on US government finances, usgovernmentspending.com. Also get his American Manifesto and his Road to the Middle Class. Beijings latest move to pitch a global AI cooperation framework is not the noble gesture it pretends to be. On July 26, just days after President Donald Trump unveiled Americas AI Action Plan, China announced its Action Plan for Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Singapore. Cloaked in diplomatic jargon and sprinkled with lofty appeals to multilateralism, Chinas announcement is a transparent attempt to dilute Americas growing lead in the AI race not to govern artificial intelligence, but to co-opt it. Lets be clear: this is not a plan for shared global stewardship. Its a play to slow the United States down, buy China more time, and extend Beijings influence across the global south all while gaining access to the very innovations that President Trumps policy aims to unleash at home. The timing of Chinas announcement speaks volumes. Days after Washington signaled it was done apologizing for leading the world in AI innovation, Beijing responded with a smile and an open hand not because it wants to play nice, but because it wants a piece of the action. Chinese Premier Li Qiangs warning against AI becoming an exclusive game for a few countries might sound cooperative, but its really a plea not to be excluded. Why? Because Beijing knows its falling behind. President Trumps AI action plan is unapologetically assertive. It lays out a roadmap for deregulation, national security readiness, and private-sector innovation. It champions free speech, liberty-based AI, and American leadership in AI infrastructure and global standards. In contrast, Chinas plan reads like a wish list for access: joint research and development, shared datasets, open-source platforms, cross-border infrastructure, and even unified standards all couched in vague commitments to equity, sustainability, and peace. To the uninformed, that might sound like progress. But to anyone watching Beijings tech strategy over the last decade, its deja vu. China has a long and well-documented record of intellectual property theft, forced tech transfer, and digital authoritarianism. These are not the habits of a partner. They are the practices of a regime that builds advantage by borrowing what it can and stealing what it must. The AI arena will be no different. Chinas action plan also proposes creating a Global AI Cooperation Organization under the auspices of the United Nations. That, too, is no coincidence. Beijing has spent the last two decades burrowing into UN agencies, pushing for governance rules that favor state control and surveillance the same blueprint China uses to repress its own people. Now, it wants to rewrite the rules of AI governance before American values can shape them first. Worse, Beijing is playing to an audience the developing world. Its plan specifically emphasizes supporting the Global South, with pledges of AI literacy programs, infrastructure support, and shared innovation platforms. In essence, China is offering to be the benevolent AI provider to countries left out of the U.S.-led model. But make no mistake: this is about building dependency, not capability. Beijing wants client states, not collaborators. In fact, the very structure of Chinas Global AI Governance proposal mimics the Communist Partys own centralized, top-down control model. It calls for globally unified computing power standards, cross-border data sharing (with China at the center), and open ecosystems all under the guise of trust and transparency. This is like asking a pickpocket to help set the rules for a jewelry store. Its laughable if it werent so dangerous. The document is also littered with buzzwords like fairness, diversity, sustainability, and multistakeholder participation. Yet Beijing offers no proof it can deliver on any of these principles domestically, let alone globally. In Xinjiang, AI is used to surveil and oppress. In Hong Kong, its part of the digital crackdown. Online, AI-powered censors erase dissenting views within milliseconds. Are we really to believe that China the same country that builds digital firewalls and jails dissidents will lead a global effort for inclusive governance? The American people and our allies must not fall for this charade. President Trumps AI strategy recognizes the stakes. It doesnt apologize for leading the world in this defining technology. It asserts that American innovation, grounded in liberty, is preferable to the opaque, authoritarian, and state-directed model China champions. His plan also correctly identifies the AI race as a competition we must win not negotiate away in a haze of UN-led bureaucratic gridlock. That doesnt mean America wont collaborate with allies. But it does mean we must be vigilant against bad-faith actors dressed in multilateral clothing. Real governance of AI should be built on trust, transparency, and shared democratic values not managed by regimes that fear freedom of information and transparency of code. Beijings play is as strategic as it is self-serving. The Communist Party is positioning itself to ride the coattails of Western innovation, mask its authoritarian ambitions with soft language, and seize the moral high ground through global forums. But we shouldnt let the rhetoric fool us. Chinas AI plan is not about cooperation. Its about containment containing U.S. leadership, containing freedom-centered AI, and containing the rise of a rules-based digital order not authored in Beijing. The right response is not to compromise. Its resolve. America must press forward with its AI action plan fast-tracking innovation, defending open systems, and building strategic partnerships with nations that share our values. At the same time, we must shine a spotlight on Chinas duplicity and deny it the credibility it seeks in forums like the UN. The AI future must be free not forged behind the Great Firewall. In the end, the choice is not between dominance and cooperation. Its between liberty and control. And America must lead not because we seek to dominate, but because if we dont, China surely will. Robert L. Maginnis is a national security and foreign affairs analyst, retired U.S. Army officer, and author of thirteen books, the latest comes this fall, AI for Mankinds Future. Image from Grok. Disinformation Democrats are loudly bemoaning Medicaid provisions in Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA): Millions [will lose]...health insurance, it could strip health care from 10 million, and it will be devastating. In fact, President Trump is taking small steps toward righting the Medicaid ship, which is foundering badly. To right a ship, one must first know the ships function. Submarines cannot launch aircraft, and aircraft carriers arent designed for stealth. The Medicaid ship was never intended to provide universal health care or insurance. The 1965 Act was written to provide a hospital insurance program...an expanded program of medical assistance, to increase benefits under the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance System. It was designed as 50 state-run medical safety nets for medically vulnerable American citizens and legal visitors. It is worth noting that, according to Section 1801 of the Medicaid Act, there was a strict Prohibition against any federal interference with the structure and operation of state Medicaid programs. Washingtons involvement was limited to joint state-federal funding. When Medicaid was enacted, it covered roughly 2 percent of the population and was projected to cost $1 billion, 1.0 percent of 1965 federal spending. Over the last sixty years, Washington has ignored Section 1801s prohibition, gradually taking control and expanding all state programs. In 2024, Medicaid/CHIP provided insurance to 78.8 million Americans and cost $817.7 billion (12 percent of the federal budget.). There are also 24 million Americans who receive insurance subsidies through the Affordable Care Act. Thus, 107.8 million Americans, 31.7 percent of the population, are currently eligible for the federal medical safety net and may be impacted by the OBBBA. As a taxpayer-supported medical protection plan, Medicaid was intended for just two percent of the country. President Trump is taking first steps toward refocusing the medical safety net to its original target population by reducing Medicaids size and wasteful spending. Months before OBBBA was passed (Feb. 19, 2025), President Trump signed Executive Order 14218, Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders, which removed illegal residents from Medicaid. California and Oregon had made more than 1 million illegals eligible for Medicaid coverage, even though federal laws prohibit their enrollment. Not only was the program not intended for them, but their inclusion deprived medically vulnerable American citizens of needed resources. OBBBA adds work requirements to Medicaid for healthy, childless adults. Democrats are decrying this injection of personal responsibility just as they did in 1996 when a Democrat president, Bill Clinton, signed the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reform Act (PRWORA) into law. Work requirements were added to TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly food stamps) over the strong objections of socialist Democrats claiming, children will starve to death in the streets. Clinton reportedly wanted to include work requirements in Medicaid but found that it would hinder the passage of the legislation. Work requirements for Medicaid enrollees is likely to be as salutary as it was following PRWORA. Childhood nutrition improved, and 60 percent of TANF enrollees found employment that enabled them to no longer need government welfare. As President Trump constantly reminds us, Medicaid was intended for Americans who would be harmed or even die without a government medical safety net. It was never intended for healthy adults, those eligible for employer-supported health insurance, and particularly not for double-dippers. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has identified about 2.8 million Americans who are either enrolled in Medicaid or the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in multiple states, or are simultaneously enrolled in both Medicaid/CHIP and a subsidized Affordable Care Act Exchange plan. These individuals divert funds from the medically vulnerable to insurance companies, who are being paid twice for the same service. The Kaiser Family Foundation estimates as many as 17 million Americans might lose government-supported health insurance due to OBBBA. This is considered a terrible result, when in fact, it is a positive outcome. Tens of millions of Americans lost their jobs and therefore lost employer-supported health insurance due to Biden-era COVID lockdowns. Between 2021 and 2024, twenty million mostly out-of-work healthy individuals were put on Medicaid. The Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests more than 60 percent have returned to work and regained eligibility for employer health care. Yet they remain on Medicaid rolls. Culling them would not harm these individuals, while it would help the medically vulnerable. A recent article described the seesaw effect, where access to medical care goes down as Medicaid enrollment goes up. By disenrolling millions who dont belong illegals, able-bodied, and double-dippers Trump can increase access to care for those who truly need Medicaid. In other words, he is refocusing Medicaid where it is truly needed. Opponents claim that OBBBA will cut funding for Medicaid. This is, however, false and misleading. The law actually increases funding to the program but reduces the rate of increase in spending on Medicaid over the next ten years. To make Medicaid the best it can be, Washington should go further. Congress should adhere to its own Section 1801, provide unrestricted block grants to the states, and allow them to deliver optimal care to their residents by matching medical resources with the specific needs and unique local medical concerns of their residents. Different challenges require different solutions. One size most definitely does not fit all. That is why when Congress enacted Medicaid, it wisely prohibited per Section 1801 the newly created Health Care Finance Administration (called Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services since 2001) from any involvement in individual state Medicaid programs. If Washington had followed its own rules, healthcare today would be much more economical while providing care when needed. President Trumps OBBBA is one small step toward that enviable condition. Deane Waldman, M.D., MBA is Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics, Pathology, and Decision Science; former Director of Center for Healthcare Policy at Texas Public Policy Foundation; former Director of New Mexico Health Insurance Exchange; and author of 13 books, including the latest with Dr. Ginn, Empower PatientsTwo Doctors Cure for Healthcare. Follow him on X.com @DrDeaneW or contact via www.deanewaldman.com. Vance Ginn, Ph.D., is president of Ginn Economic Consulting, host of the Let People Prosper Show, and previously chief economist of the first Trump White Houses Office of Management and Budget. Follow him on X.com at @VanceGinn. Image from Grok. The big lie is the name of a propaganda technique, originally coined by Adolf Hitler in Mein Kampf (1925), who wrote, The great masses of the people ... will more easily fall victim to a big lie than to a small one. Sixteen years later, Hitlers propaganda minister, Joseph Goebbels, actively promoted the big lie as the key principle of the Nazi propaganda machine. Sadly, lying has become so commonplace in our society that the truth often appears or is portrayed as a lie, and outright lies are given legitimacy by many of our political leaders, our courts, our institutions of higher education, and our religious institutions. In short, tens of millions if not hundreds of millions of people are living in a lie-filled and lie-believing state of mind. There has been a dramatic decline in church and synagogue attendance. U.S. church membership was 73% when Gallup first measured it in 1937 and remained near 70% for the next six decades before beginning a steady decline around the turn of the 21st century. It has since been between 63% and 37%, with those not in attendance professing no particular religious preference. Thus, growing millions of people are now believing the lie that there is no God, or at least have taken the agnostic position. This is a dismal rejection of the truth that the universe and our world in particular were created by a Supreme Being and that we owe Him worship, honor, and thanksgiving, for the moral law at the very least, and ultimately for the salvation of our souls. The noticeable emptying out of many churches is evidence that belief in God is on the wane and that denial is a rapidly spreading lie. Imagine: There are growing millions who believe we evolved from a Big Bang or from amoebae or from primates even though there is not one piece of fossil evidence of an intermediate stage between monkeys and humans. The creation narrative is deemed a myth because of the general credibility of science based on its achievements, but there is no verifiable paradigm or controlled experiment that can lend any credibility to the creation hypotheses offered by science. Do I need science to know that a chair is not the floor? In a parallel cognitive format, do I need science to know the difference between the human self and the One who created that self? Denial of the latter is a lie. In a survey taken only two years ago, it was found that 57% of American adults believe that gender is based on the sex assigned at birth, whereas 43% say a person could change his gender later in life. Two in five Americans (40%) think a person should be able to legally self-identify as a gender different from the one assigned at birth, whereas just as many (38%) disagree. There are political divides as well on the topic of transgender issues. Incredibly, two thirds (67%) of Democrats believe that a person should be able to legally self-identify as a gender different from the one he was assigned at birth. Far fewer Independents (33%) and Republicans (17%) share this view. On this issue, there is a clear biological and scientific standard. Females all have XX chromosomes, and males all have XY chromosomes. Males might enjoy dressing up as women or assigning themselves womens names or taking puberty-blockers, but they remain males. The same applies to females. Gender is not assigned at birth, but is a biological reality designated on birth certificates. Any other basis for designation is a lie. Further, the Bible declares homosexuality a sin and therefore inconsistent with faith in God. The lie may be the result of a strong delusion, or it may be purposeful or cynical. But a lie is a lie. In 2 Thessalonians 3, we read, For this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie. ... Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. The acceptance of the distortions produced by gender identity has become another sufficiently popular lie that has disrupted U.S. relations with societies around the world by disrupting our credibility. Insisting on lies is incompatible with leadership, although in the short run, it may have appeal to certain segments of the population. The final lie to be discussed is the lie that the brotherhood and sisterhood of humanity is denied by the existence of the nation-state. World government proponents believe that the nation-state defies the inherent unity or oneness of the human race. Decades ago, this writer was an undergraduate at the University of Pennsylvania, and while walking with a chemistry professor, Charles Price, across campus, the professor asked me if I had heard of the United World Federation, which he was president of. His goal was that the U.N. would become our one world government. I had read the United Nations Declaration of Universal Human Rights, which was published and signed by the U.N. member-states at the end of WWII, and there was no mention of world government in that document. Rather, the word rights was emphasized in almost every section. As an American, I had come to understand rights as belonging first and foremost to individuals, and that through the U.N., after WWII, the USA was in a better position to share that vision with the rest of the world. However, after many years, the U.N. changed its focus from rights to world governance in its Agenda 2015, which was updated to its Agenda 2030, where meeting needs became a central concept (not unlike the Communist Manifesto of 1848) as well as global governance. The shift from promoting and enhancing rights to meeting needs as the legitimate basis for government and for world government is another lie promoted to demote and derogate the worth of the individual. The American principle is that the state is upheld by and exists to promote the worth of the individual. It is not that the individual exists to justify and uphold the existence and worth of the state. That reversal is the third lie this essay seeks to expose. The centrality of the individual is the unique American gift to the world and to Western civilization. Europe, since the French Revolution, has been drawn to different forms of statism rather than toward individualism, and thus that difference between Europe and the U.S. remains a tension within Western civilization. If we reject the lies delineated in this article, we will have the basis for moving forward successfully into the future. Image: Tom Hilton via Flickr, CC BY 2.0. If the proposed $13.25-billion merger between advertising giants Omnicom Group and Interpublic Group (IPG) is approved, it would create the largest advertising agency in U.S. history and that should alarm every freedom-loving American. This merger would be wokeness on steroids: a juggernaut agency likely to snub conservative products, voices, and media outlets, not because theyre unfit for the marketplace, but because they dont conform to the latest ideological mandates. While mergers of this size often come dressed in corporate jargon and market-speak, make no mistake: This one is about control, censorship, and the silencing of dissent. Newsmax, in a formal filing with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), is sounding the alarm with a powerful argument: This merger is not only anticompetitive, but also dangerous to our republic. It risks creating a system where independent and conservative media are systematically starved of ad revenue and pushed to the fringes of public discourse. A Monolith in the Making By uniting two of the global Big Six advertising holding companies, the Omnicom-IPG merger would centralize control of over $240 billion in annual ad spending. Thats not just market power; its a stranglehold on who gets heard in Americas digital town square. According to Newsmaxs filing, the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) used by the FTC to measure market concentration would surge by over 650 points, landing well above the threshold for a highly concentrated market. But the threat isnt limited to market dominance. Its ideological domination masquerading as business as usual. This is where the real danger lies. The newly merged entity would prioritize efficiency or profitability, and be shaped by correctness: the ever-shifting standards of social, political, and cultural alignment enforced by unelected gatekeepers in corporate America. Censorship by Proxy: A Quiet Blacklist One of the most chilling aspects of this proposed merger is the growing reliance by ad firms on politically biased media rating services like NewsGuard and the Global Disinformation Index (GDI). These organizations present themselves as neutral fact-checkers but routinely rank conservative outlets lower than liberal ones, often based on opaque, shifting standards. By outsourcing decisions to these third parties, Omnicom and IPG effectively participate in censorship by proxy, using advertising dollars as a weapon to defund outlets they (or their partners) ideologically oppose. Newsmaxs filing rightly describes these services as ideological filters dressed up in the language of reliability. Its no wonder that FCC commissioner Brendan Carr and even the State of Texas have called out these practices for what they are: covert efforts to suppress constitutionally protected speech under the guise of misinformation control. DIE as a Political Bludgeon The dangers dont end there. Both Omnicom and IPG are deeply embedded in DIE (Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity also DEI) initiatives that go far beyond promoting fairness. In practice, these programs often result in racially and ideologically motivated ad targeting, rewarding media that promote certain views while punishing those that dont check the right demographic or political boxes. This flies in the face of Executive Order 14173, signed by President Trump earlier this year, which prohibits federal support for DIE programs that discriminate on the basis of race or sex. According to Newsmax, Omnicoms and IPGs current practices are illegal. Left unchecked, the merger would allow those practices to scale nationally, embedding viewpoint discrimination deep into the financial structure of American media. What the FTC Must Do The FTC has a choice to make. It can either rubber-stamp this deal and allow one of the most powerful advertising empires in history to form or it can uphold its mandate to protect competition, fairness, and diversity of opinion. Newsmax has proposed a sensible path forward, including a ban on third-party rating firms like NewsGuard and GDI, a decade of compliance monitoring by an independent body, a halt to DIE-based media filtering and ad targeting, financial restitution for media harmed by past discrimination, and a formal acknowledgment of wrongdoing by Omnicom and IPG. These are not radical demands. They are commonsense protections against the ideological monopolization of our public discourse. The Bigger Picture The mergers approval could trigger a domino effect, with other ad giants like WPP, Havas, and Dentsu rushing to consolidate just to stay competitive. The result? A Big Three advertising oligopoly where dissenting voices are simply priced out of existence. As Newsmax CEO Christopher Ruddy warns, the proposed merger doesnt just reduce competition; it sets a precedent for coordinated censorship and ideological enforcement in the digital economy. Conclusion Every American should be concerned about this deal not just media companies, not just conservatives, but anyone who values open debate, independent journalism, and the free exchange of ideas. We dont need an advertising Goliath dictating what messages are acceptable and which ones vanish into silence. We need competition, fairness, and freedom. If the FTC is truly serious about protecting those values, it will say no to the Omnicom-IPG merger a merger that would concentrate power in the hands of ideological enforcers who increasingly shape the future of America. Jerry McGlothlin is a veteran media strategist and founder of SpecialGuests.com. He has appeared on or booked guests for major media networks for over three decades. Contact: jerry@specialguests.com Image via Pixnio. If you thought that the only problem with the Democrat party is that they tolerate radical, anti-American, and fiercely anti-Israel congressional House members predominately the Squad of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), and Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), turns out there is more. The Biden-Harris team actively sought to undermine the Israeli government by funneling funds to unseat the democratically elected prime minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu. According to findings from the Judiciary Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Biden-Harris administration supported the Kaplanists (named after Kaplan Street in Tel Aviv, where massive anti-government riots took place), whose demonstrations, some of which became violent, took place during the tumultuous days of 2023, prior to Hamass brutal attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Using the pretext of proposed judicial reforms, initiated by justice minister Yariv Levin, to correct the abuses of the High Court, these leftist demonstrators sought to create mayhem in Israel. The memo released by the U.S. House Judiciary Committee is titled The Biden-Harris Administrations Funding of Anti-Netanyahu Non-Governmental Organizations. The memo charged that the administration misused taxpayer dollars through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the State Department, and other federal agencies. These funds were used directly and indirectly to support anti-Netanyahu Israeli and other organizations, as well as terrorist-related groups. Some of the recipients of the Biden-Harris largesse, through USAID, were the Islamic Relief Agency (linked to Osama bin Ladens precursor to Al-Qaeda); the Jammal Trust Bank of Lebanon (which became the financer of Hezballah); and Gaza-based organizations, including Bayader and Unlimited Friends Association (UFA), which allegedly have ties to senior Hamas figures and individuals expressing extremist views. Despite vetting procedures designed to prevent funding to groups like Hamas, Hezballah, ISIS, and the Houthis, staff reductions at USAID supposedly hindered these vetting efforts, raising concerns about aid diversion. A government audit showed that USAID could not account for more than $142 billion in awards. Some of the key findings of the Judiciary Committee reveal that the Biden-Harris administration provided $42,000 to an Israeli NGO, Movement for Quality Government, to conduct Civic Activism Training in Israeli high schools. The Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisers likely provided portions of its $20 million in federal grants from the Biden-Harris administration to groups funding Israeli protests. And the U.S. nonprofit Middle East Peace Dialogue Network (MEPDN), may have violated 501(c)(3) provisions of U.S. law by funding anti-democracy protests in Israel. Between 2021 and 2024, PEF Israel Endowment Funds, a U.S.-based tax-exempt entity, provided more than $884 million to over 1,000 Israeli organizations, including groups involved in the judicial reform protests. The left-leaning mainstream media in Israel, known for their hostility to Netanyahus right-of-center government, have sought to avoid highlighting this explosive news of gross interference in Israels domestic affairs by the Obama and Biden-Harris administrations. Additionally, the memo released by the Judiciary Committee noted that the Biden administration funded illegitimate activities through intermediary groups including efforts to paralyze the country (Israel) and defy IDF call-up orders for reserve duty amounting to a form of rebellion. Both the Obama and Biden administrations sought to influence the outcome of the democratically held elections in Israel in order to bring down the nationalist camp in Israel, led by Netanyahu. The Obama-Biden motivation was ideological, and the Israeli leftist opposition parties were aligned ideologically with the Obama-Biden Democrats. The leaders of these opposition parties were provided funds and personal invitations to the White House and were showered with compliments and given a strong embrace of encouragement. The Obama-Biden administrations were sending out messages that if Israelis were seeking American largesse, they should vote for those leftist parties advocating for a two-state solution. The two-state solution was Obama and Bidens policy choice, and was strongly advocated by the U.S. State Department. This was intensely opposed by Netanyahus government, which considered a Palestinian state detrimental to Israels security. The right-of-center Netanyahu government refrained from accusing Washington of crossing a red line and of blatantly interfering in Israels domestic affairs. Netanyahu worried that getting into a fight with the U.S. administration, Israels ultimate ally and friend, would cause further anti-Israel moves by the Obama and Biden administrations. The Israeli left-of-center parties encouraged the U.S. interference, since they knew that they could not defeat the Likud coalition by themselves. The Israeli electorate is overwhelmingly right-of-center in its ideological leaning, and likewise in its voting patterns. The judicial reform initiative touched a raw nerve among Israels political left since the Supreme Court, and its ultra-liberal justices, are the only domain of power that they control. Essentially, it wasnt an issue of personal animosity between Joe Biden and Benjamin Netanyahu, but rather policy and ideological differences. The Biden administration opposed some of the IDFs moves in Gaza including entering Rafah and the issue of humanitarian aid to the Palestinians. Biden and his advisers failed to grasp the truth regarding Hamass stealing most of the humanitarian aid and selling it to Gazans at inflated prices. Moreover, the Biden-Harris administration opposed the Netanyahu government judicial reforms that the majority of Israeli voters approved of and demanded. U.S. senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) denounced the Biden administrations interference in Israeli elections when quoting from a statement made by leftist tool U.S. senator Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.): Chuck Schumers demand for new Israeli elections is inappropriate and offensive. Israel is a close ally and a healthy, vibrant democracy. The last thing Israel needs is the foreign election interference that Democrats so often decry here. Senator Schumers words reflected the mindset of the Democrat administrations of Obama and Biden, whose policies signify antipathy for Netanyahu and his Israeli nationalist coalition government. Image via Pxbarn. Leftists are conditioned to 'never let a crisis go to waste,' and when they do, it blows up in their faces. Witness the latest spray shooting by some maniac at the Blackstone offices in midtown Manhattan late Monday, showing that it take long for leftists to beclown themselves: According to the New York Post: CNNs Erin Burnett is being skewered for reporting that the gunman who opened fire in a Midtown skyscraper killing an NYPD cop and three others was possibly white after viewing the initial security footage released immediately after Shane Tamuras deadly rampage. In the photos first shared online, Tamura, 27, was captured in broad daylight walking into 345 Park Ave. with a Palmetto State Armory AR-15 rifle in his hand. Burnett said police knew the gunman had sunglasses, mustache, male, possibly white during a broadcast shortly after the shooting Monday evening. She meant this guy: Seriously how do people who work at CNN sleep at night? pic.twitter.com/Miqc7fGkHm James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) July 29, 2025 Would that be like a 'white Latino'? You know, the opposite of white? Whatever that guy was, he wasn't white. Yet they so desperately want the villain in the narrative to be white, they'll say he's white even when he isn't. I don't know if CNN broadcast this guy's imaeg but anyone listening to this fool would be ill-informed. What's more, they'll expect you to believe them, not the news photos of the accused gunman. Burnett makes $6 million a year. Not to be outdone, Gov. Kathy Hochul blamed the shooting on weak gun control laws in the killer's home state: It was a naked bid to make gun control, not maniac-control, the issue, a political haymaking if there ever was one. Just one problem: The gunman is from California. It's a blue state with significant gun control laws. He supposedly acquired his gun in Nevada, which also has some gun control. It wasn't weak gun control that cause this maniac to snap a few strings and go haywire. It might have been New York's coddling and lionization of Luigi Mangione, who gunned down a CEO in midtown Manhattan and was declared a hero in those blue quarters. Facts ared still unfolding, but it's possible this jerk might have wanted the same adulation. But leftists don't care about the facts of the matter. They've got a drumbeat of narratives to promote, and if facts don't fit those narratives, they just carry on like broken records. It's embarrassing. Image: Screen shot from X. by Scott Samuelson Studying in Leipzig back in 1993, I took the train down to Dresden and visited the Old Masters Picture Gallery. As I meandered among the masterpieces, I was stopped in my tracks by Johannes Vermeers Young Woman Reading a Letter by an Open Window. The droplets of light on her braids. Her ringlets of loose hair. The almost-touchable texture of the tapestry. The almost-smellable bowl of fruit. The mysterious green curtain. Her face engrossed in the end of the letter. Her blurred reflection on the windowpane. I ended up gawking at the painting so long I missed my train back. Right now, at the Frick Collection in New York, people the world over are crowding into an exhibit called Vermeers Love Letters, featuring three exquisite portraits by the master on his favorite theme (I first wrote only threebut thats nearly ten percent of his work!). Vermeer shows are always a sensation. I still remember the excitement I shared in early 1996 with the line of museumgoers waiting in the cold to see the once-in-a-lifetime exhibit at the National Gallery in Washington D.C., which gathered twenty-one of his thirty-five paintings. How have Vermeers paintings come to entrance the world? Why is that painting in Dresdenalas, not in the Frick showstill my absolute favorite over thirty years later? What are Vermeers love letters trying to tell us? A couple of years ago, I had an experience that revealed to me the secret of our fascination with his paintings. It took place at Terminal One in OHareat Stefanis Tuscany Cafe. But before I unveil the mystery (at least as far as Ive been given to understand it), let me say a quick word about light. Its been argued that Vermeer relied on a camera obscura to achieve his precisiona device that utilizes light falling on a sensitized plate. Whether or not he used one, his intense realism isnt simply that his works are visually accurate. Each painting is a document of light, a way of preserving in oils the precise flow of a moments illumination, much like how a camera obscuras plate or photographic film isremarkablythe recorded imprint of the exact light of the moment it captures. You could imagine a painter, steeped in the optics and natural philosophy of the seventeenth century, for whom capturing the realities of light would be the be-all and end-all. For what are the visual particularities of textures, colors, and shapes except the interaction of light with our eyes? But Vermeer took his quest for reality to another level. Think of how his compositions are populated with maps, paintings, patterns, reflections. As first glance, its like hes trying to remind us how much we rely on concepts refracted from the visual. Maybe hes even trying to show us just how close to the workings of light his brushstrokes are by comparison. But the more he insists on material reality, the more obvious it becomes that something exceeds the dance of light on objects. A woman reading a letter is a perfect example. Her inner life is hidden, even as it shines through into the visible. In one of Emily Dickinsons poems, she exhorts us to Deal with the soul/ as with Algebra. Part of why I think Vermeers paintings are so fascinating is that they deal with the soul as with algebra. By being so visually precise about their subjects, they isolate the x that cant be visually revealed. They remind us of the stubborn presence of the soul in an age inclined to think that reality is no more than what can be directly observed. In this sense, theyre religious, regardless of any symbolism. Vermeer is telling us that when we look as closely as we can at reality, we come face to face with the secret that reality is keeping. Discussions of Vermeers paintings of women often concern issues like if their love letters bespeak illicit affairs, or if theyre even love letters, or what the symbolism of the fruit in the bowl or the painting on the wall can tell us about how were supposed to interpret the work. There are few painters about whom such discussions strike me as more pointless. When I consult what I see and love in Vermeers paintings, I dont care what the apple or Cupids bow is supposed to tell me about their subjects. I experience no trace of judgment or moralizing in his work. Dont get me wrong. Vermeer is obviously interested in allegory. Not only do mythological paintings hang inside his compositions, whole works of his are organized around allegory, like The Allegory of Painting and The Allegory of Faith. But his most engrossing paintings, like those of the women with their letters, arent allegories, nor should they be read as such. Theyre not object lessons. Theyre not codes to be cracked. Their faces contain what can only be hinted at by the images surrounding them. In Vermeers interiors, the painted reality is a way of reading the allegories, not the other way around. Now we can return to Stefanis Tuscany Cafe in OHare. On the table in front of me is an almost-finished pizza funghi and a half-drunk six-ounce pour of Chianti. Im looking around the restaurant and getting grumpy about how every attention span but mine is being hoovered up by a device. Then I catch sight of a woman in her twenties nibbling at a slice of pizza, sipping on a six-ounce pour of Pinot Grigio, sometimes daydreaming, sometimes people-watching. No phone! By conventional standards, her looks are quite plain. But shes beautiful to me. Heres a face, a youthful face, still open to being shaped by the interaction of her thoughts with the real world. I almost walk over to talk to herto congratulate her, to thank her. Were comrades in things of the spirit. Just then, a phone bleeps from her purse. She digs the damn thing out and starts texting. I give up all hope in the world and return to my Chianti. When I finally look up again at her face, just to confirm how unbeautiful shes become, something in the message shes reading makes her lips flicker with a profound half-smile. She gathers her thoughts. Her face concentrates everything it has into texting back. Shes in love, or so it powerfully seems. Shes probably waiting to catch a flight to see the lover shes texting with. Suddenly, nobody else in OHare exists. Just her in her white V-neck t-shirt and long navy skirt with a slit up to the knee. Just her and the washed sunbeam flowing through a tic-tac-toe-patterned window and twinkling against her wineglass. An hour or so later, as Im waiting to take off, it dawns on me that the young woman looked remarkably like a Vermeer painting. It wasnt simply that she was reading our eras equivalent of a love letter. In that instant, Id been graced with the ability not just to look at her but to see her. Somehow, I stopped judging her on whether she fulfilled or frustrated my sense of how people should behave. All my moralism and allegorizing faded into the background. I basked in the presence of a soula fellow suffering, loving, waiting human being. Simultaneously, I was hyper-aware of the late afternoon sun streaming through the electric lights. It took on a liquid quality. It soaked into things. The sparkles sat like dewdrops on her wineglass. Just as well never know what the letters say that Vermeers young women are reading and writing, Ill never know the exact nature of the text that made the young womans face in OHare so luminous. But I think I know the gist of it: Remember that one time we both happened to be eating pizza and drinking wine and people-watching in OHare? Can you ever forgive me? IMS. ILY4EVA. XOXO. *** Scott Samuelson holds a joint appointment at Iowa State University in Philosophy & Religious Studies and Extension & Outreach. Hes the author of three books: Rome as a Guide to the Good Life, Seven Ways of Looking at Pointless Suffering, and The Deepest Human Lifeall published by the University of Chicago Press. Enjoying the content on 3QD? Help keep us going by donating now. Its hard to imagine a more foolish, untimely, and ignorant decision by Emmanuel Macron to champion the creation of a Palestinian state. His announcement is not only impractical, but it is a distraction from the real issues in Gaza. And it is a betrayal of the state of Israel. Why is Macron taking this stand now? For one, he seems to operate from within an idealistic and naive bubble, that allows him to ignore the facts on the ground; the timing was also intentional: Mr Macron has been leaning towards recognising a Palestinian state for months as part of a bid to keep the idea of a two-state solution alive, despite pressure from other countries not to do so. His announcement came days before France and Saudi Arabia co-host a conference at the UN, where 40 foreign ministers will discuss a two-state solution. At a time when Macron may think hes running out of opportunities to elevate himself on the world stage (since he has only two years left of his term), hes blundering ahead. Why is this step a mistake? First, the message hes sending to the Arab Palestinians is that the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023 can be ignored: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the decision by France, one of Israels closest allies and a G7 member, saying such a move rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described it as a disgrace and a surrender to terrorism. He added that Israel would not allow the establishment of a Palestinian entity that would harm our security, endanger our existence. To establish a Palestinian state next door to Israel would only incentivize the Gazans to mount future attacks. Although civilian Palestinians have been leading protests against Hamas in recent months, its impossible to determine whether their actions are to stop the war and the humanitarian aid issue, or if theyve come to change their perspective on Israel and support their right to exist. I tend to believe the former, not the latter. For some reason, Macron seems to think that declaring a Palestinian state will somehow remedy the real issues on the ground, such as the need for more humanitarian aid and the release of the hostages still held by Hamas: This solution is the only path that can address the legitimate aspirations of both the Israelis and the Palestinians. It must now be brought about as quickly as possible, Macron said in a letter to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas which confirmed his decision to recognize Palestine as a state. The prospect of a negotiated solution to the conflict in the Middle East seems increasingly distant. I cannot resign myself to that, he said. This declaration by Macron is misguided and deluded. First, the only way that the Palestinians would want to have their own state is if Israel is destroyed. Second, giving them a state quickly is not only unrealistic, but it is nearly impossible. And finally, third, why should we care how Macron feels about the future of the Palestinians? Prime Minister Netanyahu is not the only one who has spoken out against Macrons proposal. Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized the move: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States strongly rejects (Mr Macrons) plan to recognise a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly. This reckless decision only serves Hamas propaganda and sets back peace, Mr Rubio posted on X. It is a slap in the face to the victims of October 7th - a reference to Hamas 2023 cross-border attack on Israel that set off the Gaza war. Ultimately, Hamas will make a two-state solution impossible. Over the last two years, they have manipulated and lied to representatives of Israel and the U.S. regarding the terms of the negotiations and ways to release the hostages. It has become increasingly clear that Hamas leaders intend to delay resolution on the war indefinitely. In the most recent negotiations, Steve Witkoff reported on the situation: Witkoff accused Hamas of not acting in good faith, and said the United States was bringing home its team. Hamass response clearly shows a lack of desire to reach a ceasefire in Gaza, Witkoff said on social media. Washington would now consider alternative options to bring the hostages home and try to create a more stable environment for the people of Gaza, he added. In these last negotiations, at the last minute, Hamas added in additional demands: CNN reported that according to the Hamas proposal, Israel would exchange 200 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences in addition to 2,000 Gazan prisoners in exchange for 10 living hostages. In exchange for the bodies of Israeli hostages, the terror group would receive 10 corpses of Palestinians plus 50 prisoners from Gaza who were captured after October 7, and women and children under the age of 18, to be named by Hamas. These are the people, backed by most of the civilian population, for whom Macron is calling for a state to be established. This is why you cant negotiate with terrorists. And why the two-state solution is impossible. Image: Faces Of The World, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr, unaltered. As President Donald Trump marks six months into his second term celebrating triumphs like ending numerous wars, slashing job-killing regulations, making tax cuts permanent, and signing over 140 executive orders to revive America's energy independence and economy one persistent swamp creature threatens to derail it all. In the depths of the Washington swamp, few figures embody the betrayal of true conservative values like Senator Lindsey Graham. Once a vocal critic of Donald Trump, Graham flipped like a pancake after the MAGA-leader took over the Oval office raising eyebrows and fueling theories that he's been activated by shadowy forces. Today, this so-called Republican is just a RINO, a puppet dancing to the tune of the deep state, defense contractors, and foreign lobbies that prioritize endless wars over American sovereignty. As President Trump struggles to put America first, Graham's actions scream Globalism First and its time for MAGA patriots to call him out again. Grahams chameleon-like shifts in loyalty are legendary. Before McCains passing, he blasted Trump as unfit for office. But post-2017, he cozied up to the 45th president, only to stab him in the back on key issues like January 6 prosecutions and blocking Trump-friendly appointments. Critics, including Trump himself, have branded Graham a RINO for opposing pardons for January 6 patriots, calling the senators stance wrong and a betrayal of the base. By the way, one of MAGAs top advocates, Steve Bannon, accused Graham of undermining Trump by pushing endless Ukraine aid, giving false hope to Kyiv while ignoring Americas borders and economy. This isnt leadership; this is deep state sabotage. Perched on powerful Senate committees like Armed Services and Judiciary, Graham wields outsized influence over military funding prime territory for the military-industrial complex to thrive. His career reeks of shadow donors from arms manufacturers and foreign influencers, ensuring his undying support for interventionist policies that drain U.S. taxpayers dry. Take his rabid push for Ukraine aid: despite American war fatigue, Graham jets to Kyiv demanding billions more for a conflict thats not ours. MAGA voices slam this as a direct betrayal, with Bannon calling for his arrest over undermining Trumps peace efforts. Why? Because it lines the pockets of defense contractors while advancing NATO expansion a globalist dream at our expense. He fights for constant U.S. intervention and armed conflict, all while social media buzzes with accusations that foreign intelligence might hold compromising dirt on him; whose interests does Graham really serve? Trumps America First slogan? Graham twists it into endless Middle East entanglements, echoing his late pal McCain's neocon playbook. His involvement with the International Republican Institute (IRI) has drawn fire too, with whispers linking it to CIA-backed regime changes abroad, though Graham postures as an ISIS foe. But actions speak louder: His lobbying for arms sales to hotspots smells like kickbacks to the war machine. Even in 2025, Graham's flip-flops continue. He initially criticized Trumps Secretary of War (also known as the Defense secretary) pick, Pete Hegseth. Senator Graham spread allegations of Hegseths sexual misconduct and alcohol addiction based on anonymous sources, only to pivot and back him suspiciously dismissing whistleblowers. Social media users arent buying it, labeling him a known liar controlled by intelligence agencies and foreign powers. Grahams defenders paint him as a pragmatic conservative, but the facts scream otherwise. From election meddling to war-mongering, hes a careerist manipulator eroding the U.S. transparency and sovereignty. MAGA must reject this deep state agent before he drags us into more forever wars. Trump won on America First its time to purge the RINOs like Graham who stand in the way. Image generated by AI. Canada is going to hell in a handbasket. According to LifeSite News: OTTAWA (LifeSiteNews) On the first day of the Freedom Convoy leaders sentencing trial, lawyers working on behalf of the Liberal government of Prime Minister Mark Carney inferred that the protest led by Tamara Lich and Chris Barber was tantamount to an occupation of the nations capital. Lich and Barber are in Ottawa for a sentencing hearing after earlier this year being found guilty of mischief for leading the 2022 Freedom Convoy protests against COVID mandates. (Lich and Barber were previously found guilty of mischief for leading the 2022 Freedom Convoy protests against COVID mandates.) It is surpassingly odd that government lawyers accused the truckers of occupying a city in their own country when that same government has no problem with illegal immigrants occupation of any part of Canada or all of it. And it totally ignores any mischief in which they are involved. This is simply more proof that liberals/progressives prefer aliens to citizens. The evidence is simply irrefutable. Prosecutors kicked off the court proceedings by reading Victim Impact Statements (VIS) which claimed the truckers actions had negative consequences to local businesses. Meine liebe Gott in himmel! What of the very government mandates and lockdowns the truckers were protesting? Negative consequences? Like forcing businesses to close and telling people their jobs werent necessary? And how about the Trudeau governments use of the Emergencies Act to indiscriminately punish the Freedom Convoy truckers, allowing them to be arrested, have trucks seized, and their bank accounts frozen all without a warrant. Might not those actions have had negative consequences to the truckers and everyone else in Canada who relies on goods transported by the truckers? As a kicker, the Canuck government asserted that, if a protester was detained for more than eight days, that persons dog or other pet could be taken from them. As could the pets of those individuals who could no longer properly care for their animals because they had their bank accounts frozen due to the Trudeau governments tyrannical and unconstitutional actions. Indeed, a tweet from the official account for Ottawas by-law and regulatory services read, Attention animal owners at demonstration: If you are unable to care for your animal as a result of enforcement actions, your animal will placed into protective care for 8 days, at your cost. After 8 days, if arrangements are not made, your animal will be considered relinquished. Relinquished? (Some Western governments, including those of Canada and the United States, even took children from their parents if their parents were not vaccinated. Excuse me, I meant to say that their children were relinquished to the state.) The Freedom Convoy truckers are facing up to eight years in prison, as a result of blatant political vengeance. Moreover, prosecutors are also pushing to seize Barbers truck, Big Red, through a forfeiture order they filed three years after the protests. This is all highly reminiscent of how the Biden administration treated mistreated the Jan. 6 protesters at the U.S. Capitol Building. Recently, the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) terminated its banking relationship with Eva Chipiuk, a lawyer who assisted the Freedom Convoy truckers -- and who is a vocal critic of present-day Canadian institutions. The RBC cited risk concerns surrounding Chipiuks recent bitcoin purchase. The bank sent an official letter to Chipiuk stating that her recent activity was outside of RBCs client risk appetite, and therefore the bank would no longer be in a position to continue serving her. The truth is that Canadas government no longer cares to serve its most productive and patriotic citizens, whether they are involved in transportation, energy production, the fishing industry, or tourism. The sooner Canadians realize that, the better. In summation: the insane clown posse that is Canadas government despises its hardworking, productive citizens who refuse to bend the knee and take the experimental jab. So much so that it confiscates their tax money and lavishes it on the illegal aliens undocumented immigrants whose vaccine status they care not a wit about, but whose fealty and vote -- they can count on. As God is my witness, I love most of the Canadians I know, and the physical beauty of Canada. Its lakes. The fishing. The forests. (At least those that the Canadian government hasnt deliberately let burn into non-existence. I thought trees were beneficial and produced life-giving oxygen.) But, if Canadian citizens dont soon wake up and smell the Molson and realize that they are relinquishing their once great country to a new wave of occupiers who have no plans to assimilate, and every intention of taking over perhaps they get what they deserve. No, Canada. Please, no. Image: Pixabay / Pixabay License Last week, after late-night voting sessions in Congress, President Trump signed a rescission package that included more than $9 billion in spending cuts, including the elimination of a billion dollars in funding for NPR and PBS. Conservatives hailed it as a win for small government. Liberals say the funding cuts will be a disaster. The truth is that the cuts, though certainly necessary, dont go nearly far enough in restoring fiscal sanity to the federal budget. NPR and PBS emerged during the Lyndon Johnson administration in the 1960s and 1970s. Both NPR and PBS have been rife with accusations of bias and woke content. Ronald Reagan sought to defund both organizations in the 1980s and succeeded in reducing the funding they received. Before the rescission package, both NPR and PBS received significant federal funding. There are several reasons why NPR and PBS needed to be defunded. First is the question of political bias. In NPRs newsroom, for example, there are 87 registered Democrats and not a single registered Republican. Even if we charitably assume that the folks in NPRs newsroom do their best to suppress their bias, we cant expect that their political preferences will not play at least some role in how they report on the news. Back in the 2020 election cycle, NPR did not cover the Hunter Biden laptop story. This matters because a survey found that 18% of Biden voters would have reconsidered their vote had they known about the laptop story. Therefore, public money should not be going to NPR and PBS because they act in a partisan manner. The second reason why defunding NPR and PBS is the right move is on constitutional grounds. Nowhere in the Constitution is permission given to Congress to fund media outlets. By giving the government this permission, we allow Congress to pick winners and losers and therefore interfere with our freedom of the press. Although NPR and PBS are not on the level of Russia Today in Russia or the Peoples Daily in China, government media have no place in a free society. The rescission package is a step in the right direction in terms of constitutional law and wasteful spending, but it does not go nearly far enough. As of writing, the U.S. national debt is at $37 trillion and climbing by the minute. We would need another four hundred rescission packages to come close to paying off the national debt. Contrary to what Elon Musk and DOGE promised, those savings are not going to come through eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse. The truth is that our massive debt is driven by entitlements such as Medicare and Medicaid. Some projections forecast that Social Security and Medicare will go bankrupt within the next 10 years if the programs are not reformed. Social security and other entitlements need to be reformed in conjunction with other spending cuts. Privatizing the Postal Service and Amtrak, cutting subsidies, would also get the country closer to balancing the budget. This can happen only if the American people show their congressmen that they want fiscal responsibility. In American politics, cuts or reforms to entitlements are career suicide. President Bush was excoriated for his proposed reforms that, in all likelihood, would have saved entitlements. American voters need to stop punishing fiscal responsibility and stop rewarding politicians who promise free stuff. Until that happens, we cant expect our politicians to act more responsibly. Fans of small government should be cheering the rescission package. It makes needed cuts to government spending and eliminates a violation of the Constitution. However, a lot of work remains to be done. Economic chaos and the loss of credibility for the United States government are among the things we have to look forward to if Congress does not press forward. Open-borders leftists are constantly claiming illegal immigrants commit disproportionately less crime than their numbers would indicate. But an anonymous source inside the San Diego Police Department tells Amy Reichert that he's seeing something different: A source inside SDPD says crime is unusually low this summer thanks to @EROSanDiego arresting career criminals who thought Californias sanctuary laws would protect them. Now ICE is tracking them down even though @GavinNewsom and Mayor @ToddGloria still shield them. https://t.co/gP88FShvqh Amy Reichert (@amyforsandiego) July 28, 2025 EROSan Diego is ICE, and a glimpse at the ICEBlock app, over the past week on my cell phone suggested a lot of sweeping out of foreign riffraff around town. Some days, there have been eight or nine reports of ICE activity just in my immediate vicinity. As a result, the cops have fewer calls, less overtime and and islands of calm where there once was criminality and disorder -- organized thieves, rapists, burglars and cartel criminals fighting one another the likes of which this border city has never seen before. Not too long ago, I was hearing about cartel gun battles and assassination hits deep within the city of San Diego. This, as leftists insisted crime was down and illegals who have already broken into the country unlawfully wouldn't dream of commiting crime, citing meaningless statistics, given that crime is no longer enforced. And it makes sense. Millions of dollars for alien smuggling is on the line, so the cartels have been importing their wars north to stake out turf and eliminate rivals. But since ICE raids began in San Diego -- I have not read of any lately. ICE San Diego notes that it has picked up people like these: ICE San Diego arrested Miguel Dominiguez, 19, a Mexican national with a conviction for alien smuggling. Dominguez is in ICE custody pending removal. pic.twitter.com/LGhWisOFEw ICE San Diego (@EROSanDiego) July 28, 2025 ICE San Diego arrested Rigoberto Sanchez, 26, a citizen of El Salvador with a lengthy criminal record- including grand theft, vehicle theft & firearm possession and is a documented member of the violent Maravilla- Salvatrucha gang. He will remain in ICE custody. pic.twitter.com/kUMs0HOGzA ICE San Diego (@EROSanDiego) July 27, 2025 ICE San Diego arrested Francisco Valencia, 35, a Mexican national with a heinous criminal record that includes lewd acts with a minor and DUI. Valencia remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings. ICE is committed to protecting our communities and our children. pic.twitter.com/lQDvZdFW35 ICE San Diego (@EROSanDiego) July 26, 2025 So much for the claims that the illegal alien community wouldn't dream of committing crimes against Big Gringo. Actually, it's far more likely that criminals (of which Latin America has many) have entered the U.S. under Biden's open borders policies. When would they get another chance to get into the states, given that criminals are normally screened out in legal processes? It makes sense that ICE raids would rid this country of a lot of foreign career criminals. All this, as open-borders advocates such as Sen. Alex Padilla of California falsely claim ICE is just arresting people off the street, solely based on skin color: Trump has gone too far. When a father of three U.S. Marines is beaten and detained. When U.S. citizens are arrested for no other offense than the color of their skin. When a farmworker falls to his death during an ICE raid. Its gone too far. Theres a better path forward. pic.twitter.com/fGzC92VBHP Alex Padilla (@AlexPadilla4CA) July 28, 2025 What is he talking about? ICE is making the streets safe at long last. The criminals are getting scooped up and sent home. It's what the cops are seeing and actually, probably a lot of the public. The Blaze even noted the unintentional irony of the lower crime, disorder, and violence from Padilla himself: LOL: Democrat Senator Alex Padilla inadvertently makes an advertisement for mass deportations showing safe and less crowded streets in Los Angeles! Incredible! pic.twitter.com/7VFMRIyYyk TheBlaze (@theblaze) July 28, 2025 And as I have noted a few weeks ago, Los Angeles is seeing a striking downturn in crimes such as illegal fireworks as well as navigable highway traffic. ICE is just doing the job people like Padilla and his blue-city allies won't do. Thanks, ICE. Image: Screen shot from ICE San Diego, via X. A decade ago, Kim Davis, a court clerk in Kentucky, earned the ire of the entire leftist establishment when she refused to issue same-sex marriage licenses. Now, shes filed a petition with the Supreme Court asking it to end the legal fiction of substantive due process, which is the judge-made doctrine the Supreme Court used in 2015 to justify finding a right to gay marriage in the Constitution. The due process set out in these two constitutional provisions was understood to be procedural. That is, the government had to have rules in place, and it had to follow them scrupulously, without regard to peoples race, color, creed, sex, economic power, etc. The government couldnt make up the rules as it went along, favoring some and abusing others. Image created using AI. The United States Constitution mentions due process only twice. The Fifth Amendment, ratified in 1791, states that No person shall... be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law. This limitation on government power applied solely to the federal government. In 1868, the Fourteenth Amendment extended the limitation so that states could not deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law... What, then, is substantive due process? The term first emerged in the 1930s during the Progressive Era. Progressive legal scholars argued that the courts had an obligation under the 14th Amendment to ensure not only that the laws and rules were applied equally, but that laws and rules that were inherently unfairthereby depriving people of fundamental rights and processhad to be overruled or rewritten. To understand this, think of Anatole Frances famous quotation, The law, in its majestic equality, forbids rich and poor alike to sleep under bridges, to beg in the streets, and to steal their bread. This type of law, if one applies the substantive due process analysis, deprives the poor of their fundamental right to be vagrants and must be voided. And, indeed, that is how we ended up with dystopian cities inhabited by homeless people with brains made liquid by the twin horrors of mental illness and substance abuse. Trump, mercifully, is addressing this problem. In other words, substantive due process is carte blanche for activist judges. It means that, if the judge thinks something is unfair, it gets undone or redone, and all under the color of the Constitution. The judge substitutes his public policy preferences for those of Congress and the president. Thats how, in his 2015 Obergefell decision, Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote a passionate romance novel in lieu of a Supreme Court decision. He carefully explained that it was fundamentally unfair that gays and lesbians were denied the chance to have the federal government put its imprimatur on their love. The fact that the state has an interest in marriage for practical reasons (children, societal stability, economic benefits, Americas Judeo-Christian fabric, etc.) was irrelevant. Everything changed, though, in 2022 with the Dobbs decision. Dobbs held that, if its not in the Constitution and wasnt an accepted part of English common law at the time of the Constitution, it doesnt existand you cant weasel it into American law via substantive due process, penumbras, or emanations. Perhaps the most important thing, though, was the warning shot in Clarence Thomass concurrence (beginning at page 117). He urged that in future cases, we should reconsider all of this Courts substantive due process precedents, including...Obergefell. The problem, he said, is exactly what weve repeatedly seen happen, which is that substantive due process exalts judges at the expense of the People from whom they derive their authority. This is why it matters so much that Kim Davis, who has a civil case against her, is using the Dobbs case to challenge Obergefell: In her filing, Ms. Davis attorneys say Obergefell was an act of the courts will, not legal judgment. In Obergefell v. Hodges, the Court read a right to same-sex marriage into the Fourteenth Amendment, even though that right is found nowhere in the text, the petition reads. As was predicted at the time Obergefell was decided, it would threaten the religious liberty of many Americans who believe that marriage is a sacred institution between one man and one woman. Indeed, Obergefell creates serious questions about religious liberty, and people of faith can take no comfort in the treatment they receive[d] from the majority. If Congress can pass a law approving of gay marriage, so be it. If individual state legislatures want to approve of gay marriage within the state, even if gay marriage doesnt garner federal recognition, so be it. If Congress and the states want to approve of civil recognition for same sex unions, which avoids the clash with First Amendment religious rights, thats fine, too. The one thing we cannot allow to happen is for judges to continue rewriting the Constitution and laws of the United States. The other day, a pair of giant hands appeared rising out of a canal in Venice, as if to support the sides of the Ca Sagredo Hotel. It was an installation art by Italian artist Lorenzo Quinn who wanted to make a visual statement of the impact of climate change and rising sea levels on the historic city. Quinn isnt the only one to use hands to deliver a powerful message. Let us look at other giant hand installation around the world. Mano del Desierto, Atacama Desert, Chile Perhaps the most famous dismembered hand is Mano del Desierto in the middle of the Atacama Desert, located 75 kilometers south of the city of Antofagasta. The art piece was created by Chilean artist Mario Irarrazabal in honor of the victims of injustice and torture during the military regime in Chile. The concrete structure stands 11 meters tall. Photo credit: MarcosEscalier/Wikimedia Photo credit: Juan Eduardo Donoso Rosas/Flickr Hand of Punta del Este The Hand of Punta del Este, or Mano de Punta del Este, is another hand sculpture by the Chilean artist Mario Irarrazabal, located in the popular resort town of Punta del Este, in Uruguay. The sculpture was unveiled during the summer of 1982, and has since become a symbol for Punta del Este and one of Uruguay's most recognizable landmarks. Over the years the sculpture came to be called by different names such as Emergiendo a la Vida (Man Emerging into Life), Monumento los Dedos (Monument of the Fingers), and Monumento al Ahogado (Monument to the Drowned), although the creator prefers it to be called simply the Hand. Photo credit: Vince Alongi/Flickr Photo credit: Josue Gomez/Flickr Praying Hands, Tulsa, the United States These pair of mighty hands locked in prayer stands at the entrance of the Oral Roberts University campus in Tulsa, Oklahoma. At 60 feet high, and weighing 30 tons, its reportedly the largest bronze sculpture in America. Photo credit: Jeffkao/Flickr Photo credit: Joseph Novak/Flickr Hand of Harmony, Cape Homi, South Korea The Hand of Harmony is a sculpture of a hand located on Homigot Beach, one of the easternmost points on the Korean peninsula. The sculpture made from bronze and granite was built in 1999. Photo credit: jeito/Panoramio Photo credit: Cranky/Panoramio Giant Hand at Bandung, Indonesia This giant steel sculpture of a hand is located at the gate of Setraduta, an upper class housing complex in the north of Bandung, Indonesia. It is designed and made by Nyoman Nuarta, one of the most prominent and prolific Indonesian sculptors today. Photo credit: theartstack.com Holocaust Memorial, Miami At the Holocaust Memorial, in Miami, Florida, is a 12-meter-tall sculpture of an outstretched arm, reaching for the skies as hundreds of small human figures cling to it and to each other. The hand displays a tattoo with a number similar to the ones Auschwitz survivors sport in their forearm. The sculpture was designed by architect Kenneth Treister. Photo credit: Dennis Goedegebuure/Flickr Photo credit: Scurzuzu/Flickr Hands & Molecule, Ramsgate, Kent A pair of hands, 8 feet tall, emerging from the ground and cradling a molecule is located on the Westcliff Promenade, Ramsgate, Kent, UK. The sculpture was funded by David Barnes and funded by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer. It was unveiled in June 2000 to mark the opening of the National Cycle Network (Route 15) in Thanet, Kent. Photo credit: John Sheldon/Flickr The Hand, Madrid, Spain This sculpture made in 1987 is the second giant hand made by Mario Irarrazabal. It is located in Parque Juan Carlos I in Madrid, and is similar to his original sculpture in Punta del Este, Uruguay . Photo credit: Camilo Rueda Lopez/Flickr And finally, Giant Hands of Venice The giant hands on Venices Grand Canal is the latest set of hands to appear in the world. It is not a permanent installation, but will remain till the end of November. Venice is a floating art city that has inspired cultures for centuries, Lorenzo Quinn said. But to continue to do so it needs the support of our generation and future ones, because it is threatened by climate change and time decay. I wanted to sculpt what is considered the hardest and most technically challenging part of the human body, the artist said. The hand holds so much power the power to love, to hate, to create, to destroy. via armchairtravelogue.blogspot.in In recent weeks, theres been a lot of talk about Google Home. However, it hasnt been for good reasons. Many users were struggling with their smart home setup, reporting voice commands not working properlyor not working at allamong other issues. Recently, Google acknowledged the situation and promised a solution. Now, the long-awaited fix for Google Homes voice commands issues is finally rolling out. Issues with Google Home voice commands were particularly impacting light control. If your Assistant suddenly stopped obeying commands for specific bulbs or rooms, you were definitely not alone. Google is sending a fix to light voice commands on its Home platform Over the past week or so, many Google Home users reported widespread problems. While some glitches appeared within the Google Home app itself, the bigger headache stemmed from voice commands failing. Users found that broad commands like turn off all lights might still work, but trying to control a single light or all lights in a particular room often led to frustration. These issues sparked numerous complaints across Reddit threads and Googles own Nest forums. Google has now confirmed on Reddit that a solution is actively rolling out. A company statement noted that theyve started to roll out a fix for the issue impacting the ability to target and control some lights using voice commands. Its noteworthy that some users might still experience lingering problems. Google is directing those affected individuals to a feedback page to help them refine the solution further. Potential lawsuit against Google was on the table The situation even escalated to the point where a US law firm, Kaplan Gore, announced it was investigating a potential class-action lawsuit against Google. The firm cited numerous reports of broken functionality. They argued that Google was failing to deliver the promised smooth smart home experience. They claimed that these issues were growing in scale and frequency nationwide, despite the devices previously working fine. Hopefully, with this fix now in motion, these frustrating smart home woes seem to be a thing of the past for all Google Home users. Google introduced the AI Mode in Google Search earlier this year and released it to the public in the US and India recently. Google Search is now getting AI Mode in the UK. The tool is capable of generating results using artificial intelligence and offers more conversational responses, as well as fewer links to other pages. Google Searchs AI Mode is rolling out in the UK The company has confirmed that all Google Search users in the UK will gain access to AI Mode starting today. Youll see the AI Mode appear as a tab on your Search results page, and in the Google app for Android and iOS devices. Since itll be a staged rollout, the feature will take some days to appear in the search results for all people in the UK. Some will have access right away, and most or all UK users should get access by the end of the week. What is the AI Mode? For those unaware, Google Searchs AI Mode provides a more Gemini chatbot-like experience. Compared to AI Overviews at the top of a Search result page, AI Mode delivers a more conversational approach similar to that of the Gemini AI assistant. Google says AI Mode is ideal for exploratory questions and far more complicated tasks like comparing products, planning a trip, or understanding complex how-tos. The AI Mode in Google Search supports prompts that can have multiple parts, with the company finding that questions are often two or three times the length of traditional search queries. Google Searchs users in the UK can ask more complex questions like: Things to do in Edinburgh this weekend with friends. Were big foodies who like music but also chill vibes and exploring off the beaten track. Another example is How do migrating birds know where to go?. Google has powered the AI Mode with a custom version of Gemini 2.5. It utilizes a query fan-out technique to break down a query into subtopics and make multiple searches at the same time. Then, Google Search brings back the answer with highlighted links. Users can visit google.com/aimode directly to enter a query in the AI Mode. Alternatively, theres a new AI Mode tab in the top left of the results page, which changes the page from the usual Search experience. Android and iOS device users can find the AI Mode at the top of the main tab. It is also available as a shortcut to the Search widget on your phone/tablets homescreen. T-Mobile is shutting down the dedicated T-Mobile Money app in favor of the heavily criticized T-Life. In the past few months, the telecom operator has been making a big push for the T-Life app, and the shutdown of the T-Mobile Money app is the companys latest move in this direction. The telco has already retired several older apps into T-Life, like the T-Mobile and T-Mobile Tuesday apps. T-Mobile is shutting down the dedicated T-Mobile Money application The T-Mobile Money app will now find a new home in the T-Life application. T-Mobile has started informing the users of the app that their T-Mobile Money experience will soon move to the T-Life app. The companys website also confirms the move. While the operator is shutting down the T-Mobile Money app, users will still be able to access their account on the web. T-Mobile Money users will get new account numbers and debit cards as part of the migration. The migration includes a simplified APY requirement and suspended or discontinued features like Pay Friends and check services. As of now, T-Mobile hasnt provided the exact date of the shutdown of the T-Mobile Money application. A few things are changing with the move to the new app The user experience of the T-Mobile Money app will change as it makes a new home in the T-Life app. The money service will now offer a 4 percent APY (Annual Percentage Yield) on a users checking account through November 30, 2025. It is significantly higher than the current 2.5 percent rate. Furthermore, after December 1, the user will still enjoy a 4 percent APY on their first $3,000 in their checking account. However, once a user crosses the $3,000 threshold, the exceeding amount will still qualify for the standard 2.5 percent APY. The companys website provides complete details about the new changes. A 13-year-old girl has died after getting into difficulty in the North Sea, police have said. Police were called to the beach at Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, at about 5pm on Thursday, after receiving reports that a teenager was in danger in the water. Emergency services rescued Edie Smart, who was from the Monkseaton area, from the sea. She was taken to hospital, where she died on Monday. Northumbria Police said Edies family were being supported by officers. Detective Chief Inspector Emma Smith, of Northumbria Police, said: This is an extremely tragic incident and our deepest condolences go to Edies family and friends. Our specially trained officers will continue to provide them with the support they need at this time. We ask that their privacy be respected as they begin to come to terms with the loss of their loved one. Scottish Gogglebox duo Roisin Kelly and Joe Kyle have been axed from the popular Channel 4 programme, leaving fans of the pair devastated. Kelly announced the news to her fans on TikTok, confirming that their time on Gogglebox has come to an end after three and a half years on the series. She wrote in a statement: After three and a half years of sitting on the sofa, Channel 4 have decided it's time for Joe and I to stretch out our legs and has not asked us back for season 26. Therefore, we are leaving the Gogglebox family. Kelly said that she couldn't be more grateful to Studio Lambert for the opportunity, adding that she and Joe will miss watching TV with you all on Friday nights. Roisin Kelly's statement on TikTok (TikTok/palsb4gals) The proud Scot said that it had been an honour to represent her country on TV and prove we don't actually need subtitles. She continued by thanking members of the Gogglebox cast and crew, many of whom have become like our family. Kelly ended the message, writing: 'A huge thank you to everyone who has watched us, met us, and supported us during this experience, it for sure has been a once in a lifetime opportunity. Time to watch TV in silence for a bit and put down the popcorn. Miss you already, Roisin and Joe xxx. Fans have since shared their sympathies with the couple, admitting that Gogglebox wont be the same without them. Loved you & Joe on Gogglebox. Wont be the same without you, said one unhappy viewer. Another wrote: What a miss you guys will be! Flew the flag for us. A third remarked: Ahhh, Roisin. You two were a pleasure to cast and smashed it year after year. Im so proud of both of you, total naturals. I hope you both THRIVE in whatever you do next. Roisin and Joe on Gogglebox (Channel 4) The couple joined Gogglebox in 2022, and were the first Scots on the show in six years. Their casting followed after former Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross told Channel 4 bosses during a Scottish Affairs Committee session in 2021 that there had not been a Scottish family on the programme since 2016. As a result, Channel 4 launched a dedicated casting team to find Scots to star in the hit TV series. Google has unveiled the UK rollout of a new artificial intelligence-powered tool it believes will revolutionise the traditional online search. Hailed as its most powerful AI search to date, the US tech giant is launching AI Mode in Google Search across the UK this week, allowing users to ask lengthy and complicated questions, as well as follow-ups. AI Mode will start to appear as a tab on the Google Search results page and in the Google app for Android and Apple smartphones from Tuesday, and will be available to all UK users over the next few days. AI Mode on a screen The function was launched in the US at the end of May, followed by India earlier in July, and comes in addition to Googles AI Overview, which is now built into its searches. Hema Budaraju, Googles vice president of product management for search, told the PA news agency it heralds a major shift in the way people are using online searches, with questions now becoming longer and more complex. In a blog announcing the launch, Ms Budaraju said: AI Mode is a new, intuitive way to address your most complex, multi-part questions and follow-ups, and satisfy your curiosity in a richer way. She added: AI Mode is particularly helpful for exploratory questions and for more complicated tasks like comparing products, planning a trip or understanding complex how-tos. In fact, weve found that early users of AI Mode are asking questions that are two or three times the length of traditional search queries. The tool is powered by Googles latest AI model, Gemini 2.5, and allows users to ask nuanced questions that would have previously required multiple searches. AI Mode on a screen The new search works by breaking down questions into sub-topics and sending out a range of queries on the behalf of users. It will also allow so-called multimodal searches, either by text, voice or pictures. Ms Budaraju said it should make it possible for people to find information that was previously much harder to find. This is the beginning of a major shift, she told PA. Google said it was improving factuality, but that where AI Mode is not confident in the answer, it will instead provide a set of web search results. And as with any early-stage AI product, we wont always get it right, but we are committed to continuous improvement, Ms Budaraju said. At just 23, Alicia Kember (front) experienced a stroke while on holiday in Portugal. (Supplied) (Alicia Kember) Drifting in and out of consciousness, waves of nausea swept over me as I lay on the bathroom floor, unable to move. Just moments before, Id woken up in my familys holiday home in the Algarve, Portugal, looking forward to the second day of my holiday with my close friend Chloe. However, after walking to the bathroom to use the loo, Id been struck with an intense sensation of dizziness and collapsed to the floor, throwing up and passing out. Time lost all meaning, but I think around an hour passed before I remembered, through the fog that had enveloped my mind, I was wearing my smartwatch and could call my friend on it. Her immediate, shocked reaction on rushing from her bedroom and finding me was that one of my drinks the night before had been spiked. Not for a moment did either of us realise what had really happened to me. Aged just 23, Id experienced a stroke. Alicia was staying at her family's villa in the Algarve with her friend when she became unwell. (Supplied) (Alicia Kember) Being rushed to hospital by ambulance, it was impossible to process that just 24 hours earlier Id been relaxing on the beach, sipping a cocktail and looking forward to a long weekend in the sun. This was August 2022, and after graduating a few months before, with a degree in Spanish and Italian, I was living at my family home in Surrey, working in my first job in sales and planning to move to London. Life was good, and I felt I was at the beginning of a new, exciting chapter. Now, as doctors and nurses stood around me, I felt scared and confused. What on earth was wrong with me? My voice felt weak and my mouth was struggling to form words properly Their initial belief was that my condition had been caused by drink or drugs, and I was just another young person on holiday whod partied too hard, but I knew this wasnt the case. 'Did you take something?' one asked me, and in trying to answer no, I realised my speech wasnt normal. My voice felt weak and my mouth was struggling to form words properly. It was much later in the day when it became clear that my condition wasnt improving, and I couldnt even get out of bed unaided, that I was taken for a CT and MRI scan. Then, a doctor delivered the shocking diagnosis that Id suffered a stroke, explaining that the blood flow to a part of my brain had been cut off. At that stage, they had no idea why it had happened. I still felt incredibly unwell and exhausted, and just couldnt properly process this news. Surely strokes were something that happened to the elderly, not a twenty-something on holiday? I was immediately transferred to the ICU and hooked up to beeping machines and drips. Chloe had alerted my boyfriend Josh, now 27, and family back in the UK, and Josh arrived first at the hospital that evening. It was so hard seeing how worried he was, unable to do anything to comfort him. I spent three weeks in hospital in Portugal, Josh and my parents at my side. Alicia had graduated just a few months before her stroke and was working in her first job in sales. (Supplied) (Alicia Kember) The stroke had affected the cerebellum, part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance. As a result, although I wasnt paralysed and could eat and drink, my fine motor skills were very poor, my speech was weak, and I was wobbly on my feet. Almost a month after my stroke, and a multitude of tests trying but failing to discover why Id become unwell, my Portuguese doctors agreed I could fly home. Fortunately, my travel insurance covered the cost of a nurse accompanying me. Getting on the plane was emotional, not just because I was scared I might fall ill in the air, but I was also very worried about what lay ahead in attempting to recover at home. A holiday had turned into a nightmare and I had no idea what I was now facing. For the next three months, I was cared for at home by my family and nurses from a local hospital, which had a neuro-rehab unit, along with regular sessions with a physio and a psychotherapist. With a lot of effort, I relearned how to walk properly, hold cutlery, and climb stairs, all of which had become very challenging as a result of the stroke. I felt like a pause button had been pressed on my adult life, just as it had been getting started It was tiring and there were days I feared Id never get back to normal in a physical sense, but as the weeks passed, things did improve. When someone has a stroke, its easy to only see the physical impact of it and the challenges of that side of the recovery. For me, it was the emotional impact which was even harder to cope with, and I know now that can be common among stroke survivors. Stuck at home while friends were working, socialising and travelling, I felt like a pause button had been pressed on my adult life, just as it had been getting started. Id feel angry and envious, then realise they were doing nothing wrong, it was just hard to be reminded of my past self. Then guilt would come for feeling such resentment towards people who cared for me. Even once I was well enough to go out again, Id feel anxious about falling because I was still suffering from tremors on my right side, and I was extremely sensitive to noise and lights. Just a few hours out socialising also left me fatigued and needing days to recover. Following the stroke, Alicia's fine motor skills were affected, her speech was weak, and she was wobbly on her feet. (Supplied) (Alicia Kember) I dreaded people asking 'how are you?' because I simply didnt know how to answer them. Outwardly, I was improving, but inside, every day was a maelstrom of emotions as I struggled to come to terms with the trauma Id been through. There were times I took out my frustration on loved ones, lashing out, which wasnt good for my relationships with the people who were just trying to support me. I knew they felt helpless, and that also led to me bottling up feelings and not sharing them because I wanted to protect them. I couldnt make sense of my emotions, so how could they be expected to truly understand how I was feeling? Family, friends and Josh were all amazing but having a stroke so young was such an isolating experience. Nobody truly understood what Id experienced, and I felt very alone. Last summer, I returned to Portugal for the first time and it was hard. There were tears and flashbacks to that awful morning Around a year after my stroke, tests finally revealed its cause. I had a patent foramen ovale a hole in my heart since birth which left me at increased risk of stroke, and I had to go through treatment to close it. It was another shock to come to terms with, another blow at a young age. A defining moment in my emotional recovery came when I learned about the charity Different Strokes, which supports younger stroke survivors, and read an Instagram post entitled '50 things stroke survivors wish people in their lives knew about stroke'. I wept reading it, because it was like holding up a mirror to my own feelings. Some of the lines in particular really resonated with me. One of the quotes said: "I wish you knew how hard it is to watch others carrying on with their lives whilst youre stuck and left behind, trying to pick up the pieces." Thats just what I felt. My friends were out making plans, and I was just trying to get through the day or practise climbing the stairs. Another quote said: "I wish you knew that I dont expect you to understand how Im feeling. The most invaluable thing you could give me whilst Im recovering and figuring all of this out is your time and your patience." That summed up exactly what I needed from those around me, and it helped knowing it was normal to feel that way. The support from Different Strokes helped me greatly. Chatting with other young stroke survivors online, sharing what wed all been through, there was an understanding and solidarity Id been craving. Three years on from her stroke, Alicia is sharing her story as she wants other young people to know emotional and physical recovery is possible. (supplied) (Alicia Kember) Three years on from my stroke, Ive now moved to London to live with a friend, am working again and still very happy with Josh. Physically, youd never know what I went through, although I still do experience fatigue and have to be mindful of that when planning my work and social life, to avoid crashing with exhaustion. Last summer, I returned to Portugal for the first time and it was hard. My family was with me, and there were tears and flashbacks to that awful morning, but I am glad I faced it. I cant change what happened to me, and I dont believe it will ever feel like its in the past, but its now a part of my journey through life and has made me who I am today. I am grateful I now have the chance to share what I went through to help other young people feel less alone, and give them hope that recovery both physical and emotional is possible. The symptoms of a stroke Strokes when blood stops flowing to a part of your brain are more common in older people but can occur at any age. According to Different Strokes, each year, there are more than 100,000 strokes in the UK. One in four of these occurs in somebody of working age or younger. If you think you've had or are having a stroke, call 999 immediately. The main symptoms of a stroke, according to the NHS are: Facial weakness one side of your face may droop, and it can be hard to smile Arm weakness Speech problems Other symptoms include: weakness or numbness down one side of your body blurred vision or loss of sight finding it difficult to speak or think of words confusion and memory loss feeling dizzy or falling over severe headache feeling or being sick Symptoms of a stroke can sometimes stop after a short period of time, but it's still imperative to seek medical attention straight away. Read more about strokes: Credit: RNLI RNLI lifeboat rescuers say they make no apologies for rescuing small boat migrants in the Channel. The charity has been criticised for acting as a taxi service for migrants seeking to enter the UK illegally. Figures released by the RNLI showed that last year, they were called out 114 times to attend to migrants in trouble in small boats in the Channel. This represents one in 100 of all their call-outs across the UK and Ireland. The charity said this had saved the lives of 58 migrants, including children. Paula Lain, who works as a management consultant when shes not volunteering for the RNLI, told the BBC: When our pager goes, were not thinking anything political. Were all thinking about people. Were actively compassionate. Thats what drives us beyond any moral or civic responsibility. When were tasked, we dont know what were going to be tasked with. But when we arrive on scene, thats when all our training comes into place and were there to help people in their most distressing times. RNLI crew members said they have faced accusations that they are facilitating illegal immigration. But volunteer Dan Sinclair said when he rescued migrants, he knew it was exactly what he should be doing. He recalled one recent rescue, telling the BBC: One that will stick in my mind forever was a small boat taking in water 10 miles offshore. There was a little girl on that boat. When we took that little girl, who was probably four years old, off that boat, she looked at me straight in the eye and she said, thank you. I love you. I knew I was in the right place at the right time and doing exactly what I should be doing. The RNLI has released harrowing images of an incident in which 19 people had to be pulled from the sea after the dinghy they were in capsized. It said it wants to provide an insight into the reality facing its volunteer crews. Channel migrants were thrown floating aids after their dinghy collapsed in the water The images show the crew throwing what are called horseshoes effectively mini life jackets into the sea. But on seeing the lifeboat, many of those in the water decide to swim directly to it, and they are hauled on board. Some collapse with exhaustion, others need immediate medical attention. The lifeboat already had 68 people on board from an earlier incident. Footage shows RNLI crew members rescue 19 people from the Channel after a dinghy began to sink Everyone rescued by the RNLI in this incident in August 2023 survived but six people pulled from the water by other vessels who responded to the emergency died. Nearly 24,000 migrants have crossed the Channel so far this year, up more than 50 per cent on last year and the highest number since the first arrivals in 2018. The RNLI is the largest lifeboat service operating around the coasts of the UK and Ireland. The charity, based in Poole, Dorset, was founded in 1824 and is principally funded by legacies (65 per cent) and donations (30 per cent). They operate more than 400 lifeboats from 238 stations. Rachel Reeves will visit a tin mine due to be reopened with government backing during a trip to Cornwall. The Chancellor said the 28.6 million National Wealth Fund investment to Cornish Metals, which is seeking to reopen the South Crofty tin mine, could create up to 1,300 jobs. The Chancellor will also visit other Cornish businesses and will hail plans to cut red tape that aim to boost the regions pubs, clubs, restaurants and cafes by allowing more al fresco dining and longer opening hours. Despite having so much potential to grow, Cornwall has been neglected by successive governments, and its families and businesses have suffered as a result, the Chancellor said. Like in every part of the UK, I am determined to unlock growth that creates jobs and puts more money in Cornish peoples pockets. Our investment to revive Cornwalls proud tin mining industry and the thousands of jobs it will create for years to come is one way we are renewing the county. The reopening of the mine itself is expected to create more than 300 jobs and the Treasury estimates the mine could create 1,000 more as it fuels supply chains in the UK with needs for metal fabricators and electricians. It would support the UKs domestic tin supply amid increased demand for use in solar panels, wind turbines, electric vehicles, semi-conductors and energy storage increases. Don Turvey, chief executive of Cornish Metals, said: We are honoured to welcome the Chancellor to South Crofty and proud to showcase the significant progress were making as we move toward production. The UK Governments 28.6 million investment via the National Wealth Fund is a powerful vote of confidence in our project and the future of Cornwalls mining industry. The Chancellor has also visited ship repair business A&P Falmouth and Harbour Lights fish and chip shop in Falmouth and will go to heat pump manufacturer Kensa in Truro. Russian airline Aeroflot says it has stabilised its schedule after a major cyberattack on Monday. Two pro-Ukraine hacking groups claimed to have carried out a year-long operation to penetrate Aeroflot's network that crippled 7,000 servers, extracted data on passengers and employees and gained control over the personal computers of staff, including senior managers. The Interfax news agency said Aeroflot had cancelled 59 round-trip flights from Moscow on Monday out of a planned 260. A further 22 flights out of Moscow and 31 into the capital were cancelled on Tuesday. Aeroflot's online timetable showed that all but one of the 22 cancelled flights out of Moscow on Tuesday had been due to leave before 10am Moscow time (0700 GMT), but the schedule for the rest of the day appeared largely unaffected. "As of today, 93 per cent of flights from Moscow and back are planned to be operated according to the original schedule (216 return flights out of 233)," the company said. "Until 10:00, the company carried out selective flight cancellations, after which Aeroflot's own flight program stabilised." Aeroflot had cancelled 59 round-trip flights from Moscow on Monday out of a planned 260 (AP) Apart from the many cancellations, Monday's attack caused heavy delays to air travel across the world's biggest country and drew anger from affected passengers. Responsibility was claimed by the Belarusian Cyber Partisans, a long-established group that opposes President Alexander Lukashenko, and by a more shadowy and recent hacking outfit that calls itself Silent Crow. We declare the successful completion of a prolonged and large-scale operation, as a result of which the internal IT infrastructure of Aeroflot was completely compromised and destroyed, Silent Crow wrote on Telegram. Glory to Ukraine Long live Belarus! The scale of the attack has led to questions about who the hackers actually are, and how much threat they might pose to Russia. The Kremlin described the latest cyber attack against Aeroflot as worrying, while Russias prosecutor's office launched a criminal investigation. Russian lawmakers said the cyberattack was a wake-up call and that investigators should focus not only on the perpetrators but on those who had allowed it to happen. We must not forget that the war against our country is being waged on all fronts, including the digital one, senior Russian lawmaker Anton Gorelkin said in a statement. The Trump administration has just sent $10m worth of birth control to be burned rather than donate it as aid A stock of $9.7m (7.2m) worth of contraceptives, purchased by the US for use in low-income countries, is now in transit to France to be burned rather than distributed as aid. Governments and family planning providers in France and Belgium where the items were held in a warehouse have been scrambling to block the US from destroying the supplies. The products, which include contraceptive pills, implants and IUDs (intrauterine devices or coils) and have already been paid for by US taxpayers, are being sent to a specialist facility to be incinerated, at an additional cost of $167,000. Thats despite offers from charities including MSI Reproductive Choices and the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) to take on the costs of donating the contraception. The Belgian ministry of foreign affairs had also said it was exploring all possible avenues to prevent the destruction of these stocks, including their temporary relocation. A ministry spokesperson said the department had acted as soon as the plans to destroy stocks of contraception, held in Geel in the north of the country, came to its attention, including sending formal diplomatic representations to the US embassy. French member of parliament, Soumya Bourouaha, asked in an official question on Monday for the prime minister to do everything possible to save these contraceptive stocks and deliver them to the populations who need them. The warehouse of Kuehne+Nagel, which houses US-funded contraceptives worth nearly $10m, Geel, Belgium (Reuters) However, the negotiations faltered, The Independent understands. The supplies are understood to be in the process of being transferred between the two countries. Access to contraception can be lifesaving unintended pregnancies in countries with high maternal mortality and no access to safe abortion can be a death sentence. Research by the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights research group, has found that the roughly $600m spent on family planning overseas by the US government in 2024 prevented 34,000 maternal deaths and more than 5 million unsafe abortions. The contraception was purchased under a contract managed by development firm Chemonics, which has been partly cancelled as part of Donald Trumps deep cuts to foreign aid. Chemonics said it was unable to comment on the programme. Two family planning charities said representatives had told them of the project that the destruction of contraceptives was part of an effort to save money, despite the fact that the supplies had already been paid for. Marcel Van Valen, IPPFs head of supply chain, said the argument that the destruction of these products would come in at a lower cost was utter nonsense, adding that the charity had offered to go and collect the products, to repack them [at] our cost and to do the distribution throughout the globe with our partners and even competitors in this space. MSIs associate advocacy director, Sarah Shaw, said: This isnt about government efficiencies. This is about exporting an ideology thats harmful to women. To give one example, she said: The annual contraceptive bill for Senegal for the entire country is $3m a year. So the contents of that warehouse could have met all of Senegals contraceptive needs for three years. And instead, were going to see massive shortages. Were going to see Senegalese women dying of unsafe abortion, girls having to drop out of school. Medical centres across Africa are already running low on contraceptives thanks to US cuts (AP) A bill has been introduced by Democratic senators Jeanne Shaheen and Brian Schatz to prevent the destruction of the $9.7m worth of contraceptives, specifically, as well as other medicines and food. Its not expected to pass, however, as it would need Republican support. IPPF had previously raised concerns that an additional $2m worth of condoms housed in a warehouse in Dubai were also in line to be destroyed. These were purchased under the HIV programme, the Presidents Emergency Plan for Aids Relief. A state department spokesperson described the birth control currently earmarked for destruction as abortifacient and said it did not include condoms. They added that the Mexico City Policy, also known as the Global Gag Rule first introduced in 1984 and brought back in by every Republican president since prohibits providing assistance to foreign nongovernmental organisations that perform or promote abortion. Its not clear what the administration means by birth control that is abortifacient (an agent that causes abortions). A Democratic congressional aide whose team has visited the warehouse told The Independent that their team, which had visited the Belgian warehouse, had seen only contraceptives, not abortion pills. The stocks they had seen were not approaching their expiry date. Contraceptives are saving tons of women from things like pregnancy after sexual assault or rape and saving millions ... of abortions too, the aide said. Its just not true that mifepristone or any of these abortion pills are in these warehouses. Thats completely false. In the past, conservative and religious groups in the US have falsely claimed contraceptives count as abortion agents. Dr Janet Barter, president of UK clinical membership body the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare, explained an abortion was defined by when there is a pregnancy and the abortion tablets or medications cause that pregnancy to be lost. On the other hand, when contraception is used properly, there is no pregnancy. Its very straightforward with pills, implants, injections. They all work by stopping you from producing an egg. If there is no egg, there is no pregnancy, she said, while in the case of the copper coil, it largely works by killing sperm before an egg can be fertilised. While family planning has come into the firing line, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) pointed out this was the latest in a series of destructions, including 500 tonnes of emergency food aid and almost 800,000 mpox vaccines which had been allowed to expire while active outbreaks rage. The US government manufactured this problem, said Avril Benoit, CEO of MSF USA. Destroying valuable medical items that were already paid for by US taxpayers does nothing to combat waste or improve efficiency. This administration is willing to burn birth control and let food supplies rot, risking peoples health and lives to push a political agenda. This article was produced as part of The Independents Rethinking Global Aid project An Australian Army Himars fires a Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) in the Northern Territory during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 - CPL Cameron Pegg A frantic arms race between the US and China is underway in the Pacific while the fate of Taiwan hangs in the balance. Washington and its allies are trying to stay ahead of Chinese capabilities, shaking Beijing off-balance as it considers whether it can launch a successful invasion of Taiwan. At the heart of the US strategy is a new technology that has the ability to inflict devastating losses on the Chinese navy: precision strike missiles (PrSMs, pronounced prisms). The missile has just been tested in Australia, where it struck a target more than 190 miles away, marking the first time the Lockheed Martin-manufactured weapon has been used by a US ally. It can be fired with either American-made Himars or British MLRS artillery systems: missile launchers that were recently used by Ukraine to launch counter-offensives on invading Russian forces and strike deep inside enemy territory, blunting Moscows advances. Game-changing firepower To date, those launchers have been used with Atacms missiles, which have been in service for more than three decades with a top range of some 190 miles. But PrSMs reportedly have a range of more than 300 miles, with the potential for this to improve in future variants. And at the recent test flight in Australia, the missile reached speeds of 4,000kmph, beating the Atacms by some 300kmph. Each launch pod will be able to hold two of the precision missiles, compared to just a single Atacm, according to Alex Miller, the US Armys chief technology officer. It is also said to be less susceptible to jamming. 2907 How Precision Strike Missile compares against the ATACM The PrSMs combine those next-generation improvements with the advantages of the Himars and MLRS systems, which are quick, agile and relatively easy to disguise and could wreak havoc on Chinese ships attempting an invasion. Brad Bowman, a senior director at the Foundation for Defence of Democracies, said: It really creates a challenge for our adversaries, because where that system is now, it may not be there in 30 seconds or five minutes Thats a real detection and targeting dilemma. Both the US and China are ramping up their military capabilities in the Pacific and particularly around Taiwan, which Beijing regards as part of its territory even though it has effectively been independent since the 1940s. Taiwan under threat Earlier this year, Xi Jinping, the Chinese premier, said reunification with China was inevitable, and that those on either side of the Taiwan Strait were one family. China has regularly threatened Taiwan with fighter jet and warship incursions, but has always stopped short of a direct confrontation. At a security conference in May, Pete Hegseth, the US defence secretary, warned that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan could be imminent. The stakes couldnt be higher, for both sides. PrSMs reportedly have a range of more than 300 miles, with the potential for this to improve in future variants If the USs military capabilities are outstripped by China, it would prove fatal to Taiwan, which relies on Washington to provide a credible deterrent. And if the island nation falls, it means the loss of a key strategic buffer against Beijing expansionism. But failing to take the island would inflict a stunning blow on China, and almost certainly lead to the fall of Xis regime. Theres always a constant battle with both sides to try to respond to whatever advances the other side has, said Doug Bandow, a senior fellow with the Cato Institute. But Id say these [PrSMs] have the potential for dramatically increasing the risk factor for a Chinese fleet. So thats substantial. Taiwan deployed Himars missile systems for the first time as part of the Han Kuang military exercise, July 12 - Daniel Ceng/Anadolu via Getty Images Chinas military will be only too aware of the damage Ukraine has managed to inflict on Russia using Himars since they were first provided by the US in June 2022, and will be warily eyeing the upgraded precision missiles. Taiwan already has 11 Himars from previous arms sales with the US, and it is expected to receive more in 2026. Mr Bandow said the PrSMs will have inflicted an important psychological blow on China without any shots even being fired, and could convince its leadership to delay its imperial ambitions. The most important advantage of a weapons advance like this is it simply encourages the Chinese to say, No we dont have to do it now, he told The Telegraph. In my view the best chance of getting through this is to simply have that happen a lot. And hopefully we can get to a point, whatever that point is, where everyone agrees war is really stupid and this wont happen. Credit: Taiwan Military News Agency Real damage could be inflicted on the Chinese fleet, both in ports and moving out to a potential invasion, if PRsMs are deployed throughout Taiwan and the rest of the first island chain, which includes Japan, Indonesia and parts of the Philippines. Australia aligns with US Elsewhere in the Pacific, Australia signed a $310m deal with the US to join the missile programme in June. This is all about extending deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, all about signalling to any potential adversary that pain can be inflicted, Pat Conroy, Australias defence industry minister, said at the test flight this month. But China is also moving quickly to innovate, and earlier this year appeared to be constructing D-Day style barges for an invasion that would allow it to bypass rocky or soft beaches unsuitable for tanks, providing multiple fronts for an invasion. Chinese D-Day style barges were spotted practising what appeared to be amphibious landings in the South China Sea earlier this year Some experts are concerned the US is too slow to procure PrSMs. The Pentagons recent funding request to Congress shows the army intends to buy 45 of the missiles from Lockheed Martin. Theres very rarely a decisive game changer by itself but this is a key capability for the United States and our allies to have, Mr Bowman said. That is the ability to sink Chinese naval vessels in large quantities from ground-based mobile platforms. Thats why I think we need a whole lot of them, fast. Simply Recipes / Photo by Andrew Bui / Food Styling by Kaitlin Wayne Why Make This My easy Italian pasta salad calls for just five ingredients and takes just 15 minutes from start to finishcook the pasta, toss with pesto, mayo, sundried tomatoes, arugula, and seasoningand youre done. It also keeps in the fridge for up to five days, making it an ideal grabandgo lunch, light dinner, or picnic side. There are certain things I look forward to in the summer: hammock naps, beach days, chilled white wine, and pasta salad. Combine them into one day and I could die of sheer contentment. I strive to have pasta salad in my fridge at all times throughout the summer. Its easy to pack for picnics and on-the-go lunches, plus it makes the most satisfying lazy dinner on nights when I cant be bothered to cook a full meal. Its also a crowd-pleaser and easy to prepare in advance for BBQs and casual summer get-togethers. Its somehow the solution to every summer problem. The importance of this pasta salad in my life cannot be overstated. The same goes for the simplicity of this recipe. Its only five ingredients and it comes together in just 15 minutes. My Favorite Ingredients To Use My favorite pasta shape for this salad is radiatori. The name comes from the fact that the shape looks like miniature radiators. They have lots of grooves and ridges so they hold the sauce well. Theyre a sturdy shape that wont fall apart as the pasta salad sits in the fridge, plus they're fun to eat. If you cant find radiatori, try another short pasta like elbows, farfalle, or fusilli. This recipe calls for store-bought pesto in order to save time and hassle. My absolute favorite is Trader Joes Vegan Kale, Cashew, & Basil Pesto, which I make sure to stock up on every time I go. You could make homemade pesto or use your favorite store-bought option. Another one I enjoy is Gotham Greens. For the sun-dried tomatoes, look for an option stored in olive oil. You could use dried ones that arent oil-packed if you prefer, they will just be chewier and less robust in flavor. Simply Recipes / Photo by Andrew Bui / Food Styling by Kaitlin Wayne How To Make My 5-Ingredient Italian Pasta Salad For 4 to 6 servings, youll need: 1 pound radiatori pasta 1 1/2 cups store-bought pesto 1/2 cup mayo 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped 2 packed cups baby arugula Salt and pepper, to taste Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, pesto, mayo, sun-dried tomatoes, and arugula. Mix until everything is combined. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can eat it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Add Some Flair to This 5-Ingredient Pasta Salad There are many ways to customize this pasta salad. I love adding chopped kalamata olives or capers for extra briny flavor. For protein, you could add white beans, chickpeas, or shredded chicken. I like to add a little brightness with lemon zest or juice and fresh cherry tomatoes. For a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes. Topping with grated Parmesan cheese rounds out the dish and compliments the Italian flavors. Simply Recipes / Photo by Andrew Bui / Food Styling by Kaitlin Wayne Read More: The Only Time You Should Rinse Pasta, According to an Italian Chef Read the original article on SIMPLYRECIPES Getty Bride and groom (stock image); Mount Everest (stock image) NEED TO KNOW A couple with a penchant for adventure got engaged on Mount Everest Kelsey Bone and Scot Pominville decided to chase a similar high literally for their wedding, which recently took place atop Mount Kilimanjaro "I figured I'd always kind of end up eloping or something like that kind of combining adventure with love," Bone said A couple of adventure-seekers started their married life together 19,341 feet up. Kelsey Bone and Scot Pominville have been together for the last seven years traveling, hiking and chasing beautiful corners of the world by each other's sides, per the CBC. In September, their connection reached a record (geographical) high they got engaged on Mount Everest and their wedding on Mount Kilimanjaro followed suit. While flying to Nepal for the couple's big hike up Mount Everest, Pominville had been carrying around an engagement ring in his bag. He told the outlet that his and Bone's belongings were mixed together, and there was a chance Bone could stumble upon the ring before the right moment. "Luckily, she never did," Pominville told CBC. Getty Mount Kilimanjaro and Acacia Bone had realized their trip's potential for a memorable engagement, and she recalled thinking the famous rock on the mountain's southeast ridge route would be the most likely place for Pominville to pop the question, if he was planning to. However, she told CBC that she was still caught off guard when he pulled out the ring. "I think we're going to get some photos and then look to my side, and there he is, down on his knee," Bone recalled. The rest was "lost in the moment," she said, but they'll always cherish the complete privacy of the location for them to savor their first hours as an engaged couple. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Bone and Pominville "weren't really big wedding people," she said, so they kept nontraditional nuptials on the table as they contemplated their future together. "I figured I'd always kind of end up eloping or something like that kind of combining adventure with love," Bone said. Pominville added, "I always said, 'the important part is who it's to, not where it is or what it is.' " According to the CBC, two of the couple's friends invited them on a hiking trip up Mount Kilimanjaro with them, but Bone said she and Pominville didn't want to "overshadow their trip at all" and thus tabled the idea of eloping. However, that changed when one of their friends shared they'd just gotten ordained to officiate a wedding. Bone found a used dress online, something lightweight that could stretch "over hiking gear," she said. The first one she went to try on turned out to be perfect, she told the outlet. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The couple and their friends spent seven days hiking up Mount Kilimanjaro, savoring the beautiful hike alongside their wedding anticipation. During the final stretch, Bone stepped into her wedding dress, and she and Pominville said "I do" at the mountain's peak. "I was one of those kids that actually never dreamed of my wedding," she said. "This was absolutely perfect." Read the original article on People One of the 10 Americans released from Venezuela in a prisoner swap last week was convicted of killing three people in Spain and was serving a 30-year sentence in a Venezuelan prison before his release, Spanish and Venezuelan officials told ABC News. Dahud Hanid Ortiz, 54, was convicted in Venezuela of killing three people in a Madrid law office in 2016, according to the Spanish Interior Ministry and the Venezuelan vice presidents office. Spanish authorities said Ortiz stabbed to death two female employees and a client of the law firm in June 2016. Authorities said Ortiz was looking for the lawyer who ran the office, who was away at the time. The Venezuelan government opted to try Ortiz, an American-Venezuelan dual national, in Venezuela rather than fulfill an extradition request form Spain because Venezuela's constitution prohibits the extradition of Venezuelan-born citizens. Federico Parra/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: Venezuelan migrants who were jailed in El Salvador walk upon arrival at Simon Bolivar International Airport in Maiquetia, Venezuela, on July 18, 2025. MORE: Migrants sent to El Salvador's CECOT returned to Venezuela in prisoner swap, 10 Americans freed: Officials Speaking on Venezuelan TV on Thursday, Venezuelas Justice Minister Diosdado Cabello said U.S. officials were told about Ortizs conviction but said they still wanted him released. The U.S. was aware of Ortiz past but made the decision to bring him out in the swap anyway, according to a U.S. official familiar with the matter. Ortiz served in the U.S. Army for about 17 years as an enlisted soldier, starting in 1995, and then served more than four years as an officer, an Army spokesperson said. He deployed to Kuwait and Iraq and left the Army in October 2015, nine months before the murders were committed. Venezuela's U.S. Embassy via Reuters - PHOTO: U.S. citizens released from Venezuela pose for a photo holding U.S. flags after a prisoner swap, at an unknown location, in this handout picture released July 18, 2025. MORE: Venezuelan migrant files claim over deportation to notorious CECOT prison A defense official said Ortiz was court-martialed "and dismissed from the Army" in 2015. As part of a previous 2023 prisoner swap between the U.S. and Venezuela, Ortiz was supposed to be sent to Spain to be tried for the 2016 killings -- but that never materialized. Ortiz, who had been arrested in Venezuela in 2018, was sentenced on Jan. 9, 2024 in Caracas. His status or whereabouts in the United States was not immediately clear. The current swap involved the exchange of 10 Americans held in Venezuela for the release of more than 200 Venezuelan migrants who had been deported from the U.S. and sent to El Salvador's CECOT prison. The U.S. official said the administrations focus was getting Americans out of Venezuelas notorious prisons. All told, eight of the 10 Americans freed last week were officially classified by the U.S. government as "wrongfully detained." Ortiz was not classified as such, the official said. A former Marine who helped confront the suspect in a stabbing rampage at a Walmart in Michigan is speaking out in an exclusive broadcast interview after the terrifying incident that authorities said was an act of terrorism. Nearly a dozen people were randomly injured in the attack on Saturday before a group of citizens -- including Derrick Perry, who was armed with a gun -- helped prevent the suspect from leaving or harming others, authorities said. "I didn't think of anything other than trying to get him away from people and get him isolated and get him to put the knife down and just to kind of focus on me instead of everyone that was yelling and screaming in the background," Perry, a married father of three, told "Good Morning America" on Monday. ABC News - PHOTO: Derrick Perry speaks with ABC News on Good Morning America. The suspect allegedly entered the Walmart store in Traverse City, about 150 miles north of Grand Rapids, Saturday afternoon and began attacking people with a folding knife, authorities said. "It appears that these were all random acts," Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea said at a news conference on Sunday afternoon, adding that the attacks began near the checkout area. The victims range in age from 29 to 84 and include a Walmart employee, Shea said. MORE: Authorities were searching for Walmart stabbing suspect prior to incident A group of citizens, including a firearm-wielding Perry, confronted the suspect in the parking lot in a dramatic scene that was captured on video by a bystander. A deputy then took the suspect -- 42-year-old Bradford James Gille -- into custody, authorities said. "I commend them," Shea said of the citizens who helped. "It's not very often that we have citizens that are willing to step up and take action." Gille was formally charged Monday with one count of terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder. He did not enter a plea during his arraignment, and a judge overseeing the hearing said an attorney will be appointed to represent him. @highon16widez / TikTok - PHOTO: A bystander video shows suspect Bradford James Gille, 42, (to the left wearing a black cap) is confronted, July 26, 2025, by a group of citizens outside a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan. MORE: Good Samaritan speaks out after stopping couple from 'dumping' kittens in dirt field Magistrate Tammi Rodgers set Gille's bail at $100,000 cash and ordered him to return to court for a probable cause hearing on Aug. 6 and a preliminary hearing on Aug. 12. The magistrate granted the prosecutor's request for high bail for Gille, alleging that he had committed "one of the most serious crimes that one could commit in the state of Michigan." Prosecutors said each charge against Gille carries a possible life sentence if he is convicted. Axolotl amphibian Andrea Izzotti/Shutterstock.com Axolotls are a type of amphibian but with a difference. They have been described as the Peter Pan of amphibians because they never grow out of their aquatic phase. As a group of animals, the planets amphibians are in trouble. They are the most threatened group of vertebrates, and 41 percent of assessed species are listed as at risk of extinction on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Axolotls are only found in three isolated sites in the southern part of Mexico City and are very vulnerable to habitat loss. Most of what you read about these beleaguered creatures is bad news, but for once, we have a good news story to share with you! Thanks to a successful translocation program of captive-bred axolotls, these amazing creatures may have a chance to make a comeback. About Axolotls The axolotl habitat at Lake Xochimilco is being lost. Liz Pichardo/Shutterstock.com Axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) are a paedomorphic salamander, which means that they retain their juvenile features and aquatic lifestyle into adulthood. They are an endemic species of Lake Xochimilco in Mexico, where they have been severely affected by habitat loss caused by urban expansion, environmental degradation, and a decline in water quality. The arrival of invasive species has only made things worse. The situation became so bad that conservationists had to consider translocation to try to save them. This process involves moving a species from one area to another. It is often combined with a captive breeding program. This method is not without challenges. Not all animals breed well in captivity, and some do not adapt well to wild conditions. More importantly, if the root causes of population decline are not tackled at the same time, you are simply breeding animals to die in the wild. Restoring and Creating Habitats During the Aztec era, wetlands surrounding Lake Xochimilco in Mexico were partially transformed into canals surrounding rectangular islands called chinampas. Even though these were established to aid food production, they also supported local biodiversity. However, these habitats have been threatened and degraded over time. In 2004, the Laboratorio de Restauracion Ecologica at the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico (UNAM), in collaboration with local chinampero farmers, initiated a project to create refuges within chinampas to support native species, including the axolotl. Ongoing challenges and climate change mean that it is also necessary to create new habitats for species such as the axolotl, which are more likely to remain stable over time. One such area is the La Cantera Oriente (LCO) located in the protected area of the Reserva Ecologica del Pedregal de San Angel (REPSA). This is an artificial wetland created as a byproduct of basalt mining activities, which brought underground springs to the surface. They have developed into thriving habitats that include potential prey species such as crayfish for adult axolotls and zooplankton for their larvae. Studying Axolotl Translocation Axolotls are the Peter Pans of amphibians. Iva Dimova/Shutterstock.com The study was conducted at two sites: a restored chinampa in Lake Xochimilco and a pond in the artificial wetland of La Cantera Oriente (LCO). Previous pilot studies had confirmed that the areas were suitable habitats for axolotls. A total of 18 captive-bred axolotls (nine females and nine males) were fitted with tiny transmitters so that their movements could be tracked. They were randomly released at the sites over a period of months. Using the transmitters, the researchers were able to monitor the axolotls home ranges, hourly travel distances, and daily travel distances. They also recaptured three axolotls to assess their health and condition. Would the released axolotls survive, and how would they behave in their new habitats? Study Findings Good News and Bad News The main study finding was that the released captive-bred axolotls survived and successfully foraged in both habitats. The weight gained by the recaptured individuals demonstrated this. However, predation was still an issue, and the researchers witnessed great egrets attacking adult axolotls. Sadly, predation is the leading cause of translocation failure for many species. Captive-bred animals may not have the anti-predator behaviors that wild-born animals possess. Pre-release training to improve predator awareness could help address this issue. Analysis of the axolotl movement data also revealed some interesting findings. Those released into the artificial wetlands had larger home ranges and traveled greater daily distances than those in the restored chinampas. The axolotls also seemed to have a narrow thermal preference range. What Does This Research Mean for Axolotls? These findings are good news for a species that is at risk of extinction. It has been shown that captive-bred axolotls can thrive and forage successfully after translocation to both protected natural and artificial wetlands. The ease with which they adapted to the artificial wetlands is especially exciting. These habitats provide more stable conditions where habitat degradation and climate change impacts can be mitigated. Finally, the study indicates that future programs should investigate the use of predator awareness training before release, together with ongoing habitat monitoring. Both strategies could improve the survival chances of released axolotls. The post Axolotls Make a Comeback in Mexicos Artificial Wetlands appeared first on A-Z Animals. Photo by LYCS Architecture | Unsplash (The Center Square) This month, a number of new state laws took effect in Washington that impact both employers and their employees. Other recently passed laws impacting employment kick in Jan. 1, 2026. The Association of Washington Business held webinars last week to help employers navigate the complicated changes. Seattle employment law compliance attorney Deidra Nguyen led the webinar. It was a bit of a mixed bag and lets be honest, [there was] a fair bit of bad news on behalf of employers, she said in opening remarks. From the employer perspective, there will be a number of challenging developments that are going to make your life a little bit more difficult. She started with changes to Washingtons Paid Family Medical Leave Act. House Bill 1213 expands job protection rights, reduces the minimum increment of time off from eight consecutive hours to four consecutive hours, and broadens health insurance coverage requirements, among other miscellaneous changes. Its being phased in and will soon impact smaller employers, Nguyen said. Starting Jan 1, 2026, the threshold is changing for the number of hours that employees have to work. There is one good change for employers, according to Nguyen If an employee is taking FMLA [Family Medical Leave Act] and theyre eligible for PFML but they didnt apply for and receive PFML, theres a process where we get to say, Hey, employee, its your choice whether to file or not but choices have consequences and if youre not going to file for PFML for this leave where you very well could the result is the time youre taking is FMLA and thats going to be subtracted from how much protection you get under the Washington Paid Family Medical Leave program, she said. So, this is an attempt to incentivize employees to use those benefits concurrently. Starting Jan. 1, 2026, Senate Bill 5101 expands protections under the Domestic Violence Leave Act to employees who are, or whose family members are, the victims of hate crimes. Ill be curious to see how many employees are seeking to take leave related to hate crimes. I hope not many. This is an unpaid leave of absence that employees get to take. Its a reasonable amount of time. If you ever figure out what reasonable means under the law, let me know, Nguyen said. She explained that employees taking time off for a hate crime incident must use paid sick leave. So maybe that's a little bit of an incentive to come back to work, because it doesn't have a pay component. But, as I said, there is a consequence to paid sick leave use, Nguyen noted. It almost needs a different name because paid sick leave can be used for so many different things. She explained that time off to care for a family member has also been expanded. This is a theme that we're seeing across lots of laws to really recognize that family member means, in some families, in some homes, much more than just kind of your traditional or nuclear family members. So here there's coverage for an individual who regularly resides in the employee's home or there's otherwise a relationship that creates the expectation that the employee will care for that person, and that person is dependent on the employee for care, Nguyen explained. Under House Bill 1875, employees can, as of Sunday, use accrued sick leave to participate in immigration proceedings involving themselves or a family member. I think this fits in with a theme that you may have heard around the time of the new administration coming in, in which is we see protections roll back at the federal level, so we're probably going to see state legislators and city officials roll up their sleeves to do more to protect their residents and employees, and that is certainly the case in this particular area, Nguyen said. Senat Bill 5501, also in effect as of Sunday, prohibits employers from including in a job posting a requirement that a worker possess a valid drivers license, unless the job requires the individual to drive as part of their job duties. We are not, as employers, allowed to require applicants to have a valid driver's license as a condition of employment, or to include it on a job posting, unless driving is an essential function of the position, Nguyen reiterated. Now, I have had a number of clients say its really important they get to work on time, so that's why I want them to have a valid driver's license that might make perfect business sense. That's not going to pass muster under the law anymore. One of the most hotly debated bills concerning employment law during the 2025 session also became law on Sunday. Senate Bill 5041 allows striking workers to receive unemployment insurance benefits for up to six weeks. Workers become eligible for benefits the second Sunday following the first date of the strike. Striking workers who are on strike or are locked out now will have the ability to qualify for unemployment benefits, Nguyen said. So think about some of these big strikes that we've had recently in Washington, and how different those might have gone if employees had been eligible for unemployment benefits? The length of time for which they can get benefits is a little bit shorter if they're on strike as opposed to a lockout. Nguyen said Washington lawmakers agreed to reassess the law, but not until 2035. I think that's an opportunity to basically check our pockets and our coffers. Like, how are we doing? Could we afford this or not? You know, Washington has passed some other programs that turned out to be not affordable, she said. An image of fresh butter on a white plate Marilena Ghezzo / 500px via Getty Images Butter is having a moment. No longer just a bit player in baking or a back-of-fridge standby, its taking center stage whipped into sculptural boards, swirled into pastas, slathered generously on crusty bread. And yet, most of us still toss the same familiar yellow box into our grocery carts week after week. What actually makes a butter better, and which store-bought slabs are worth the splurge? To find out, we talked to chefs, cheesemongers and cookbook authors obsessed with butter not just for the flavor, but for the science and soul behind it. We asked about butter for cooking, baking, and simply slathering on a piece of toast. What we discovered: Great butter isnt about branding. Its about butterfat, culture (literally) and how it performs on your toast and in your pan. The Magic Of Cultured Butter First, lets break down the basics: Most American butter is made from sweet cream, which means its churned from pasteurized fresh cream and tastes clean and mild. Cultured butter, on the other hand, is made by fermenting cream with lactic acid bacteria before churning. The result? A richer texture and a slightly tangy, more complex flavor like the difference between milk and creme fraiche. Cultured butter has a much more pronounced buttery flavor than sweet cream butter, said John Montez, a certified cheese professional through the American Cheese Society and training manager at Murrays Cheese. It has a slight tang and when butter is the star of the show [like spread on a crusty baguette], for me it has to be cultured. David Joachim, author of more than 50 cookbooks including the Food Substitutions Bible, agrees: Its like yogurt for your butter. That fermentation produces more complex flavor compounds its just more interesting. He added that European butters, which are often cultured, also tend to have higher butterfat content (around 8285%) compared to most American butters, which are closer to 80%. So What Is Butterfat, Anyway? Butterfat is the creamy good stuff that gives butter its richness and spreadability. More fat means less water, and that matters for every application for flakier pastries, smoother sauces and better browning. Higher-fat butters are great for baking because you get better aeration when creaming, Joachim explained. Theyre richer, softer and more flavorful. Thats part of the reason why even basic recipes can taste restaurant-level amazing with the right butter. I love nothing more than a bowl of buttered noodles with garlic, Montez shared. Just a big pat of salted, cultured, grass-fed butter stirred in at the end simple buttery heaven on earth. Butterfat content isnt always front and center on the label or listed at all. If its not shared, the style can offer a clue: words like European-style or cultured typically mean a higher fat content. But for the real number, you may need to check the brands website or nutrition panel and do a little math (less moisture and milk solids = more butterfat). A standard tablespoon of butter weighs about 14 grams. If the total fat is listed as 11 or 12 grams, its a higher-fat butter (roughly 8286% butterfat). If its closer to 10 grams, its likely lower fat (the standard 80%, the American minimum). Grocery Store Butters Worth The Hype So which brands do butter pros actually reach for? Kerrygold cant be beat for grass-fed Irish butter, Montez said. Vermont Creamery also makes an excellent salted cultured butter, and I always go for local if I can, for any and every occasion. Sheana Davis, culinary educator and author of Buttermonger, has a few more favorite finds for savoring on bread or radishes, or putting to use in her recipes: Clover and Straus Family Creamery are both fantastic. Marys makes a really lovely cultured butter and even a butter toffee from it. Joachim adds Vital Farms to the list. Its 83% butterfat, super flavorful and widely available. Its lovely on bread. Joachim has also noticed a butter trend on the rise: There are more flavored butters and compound butters in grocery stores now truffle, lemon, herb, Joachim said. You dont even have to make them yourself anymore. Compound butter is simply butter thats been mixed with added ingredients like herbs, citrus zest, garlic or spices to boost flavor. Its an easy way to finish a steak, brighten vegetables or elevate a slice of toast. Making your own is simple: start with softened unsalted butter, stir in your favorite flavorings, then shape it into a log using parchment paper and chill. Slice off a round whenever your food needs a little something extra. What About Your Everyday Butter? Heres the thing: not every butter needs to be a $9 golden brick. Theres still a place for a humble house brand especially in high-heat sauteing or baking where butter flavor isnt the star. A supermarket butter, even a private label, is going to work fine for everyday cooking, Joachim noted. But when the butter really matters like on a baguette or finishing a steak I go for the good stuff. One tip from Davis: avoid tub-style or whipped butters for baking. Theyre often full of air or water, which throws off recipes, she said. And whatever you buy, check the date. Butter can be frozen, but it absorbs odors easily. Always seal it tightly or store it in a butter dome on the counter for easy spreading. Lets Talk Labels Reading a butter label can feel like decoding a dairy mystery. Heres what to look for: Cultured = fermented for deeper flavor Grass-fed = typically richer in color and nutrients European-style = usually cultured and higher in butterfat Salted vs. unsalted = salted is great for spreading or finishing, unsalted is better for baking. Chefs often choose unsalted, as they can add salt themselves, and better control the amount. The best clue is if it says cultured and grass-fed right on the front, Montez said. Those are always good signs. Butters Nutritional Reputation Perhaps the biggest misconception about butter? That its bad for you. A good grass-fed butter is actually full of healthy fats, Montez said. That fat is evil thinking is outdated. Davis agreed. Butter is a healthy, whole food in moderation. Its not something we need to fear. And Joachim, who once wrote for health magazines in the low-fat 90s, adds: Fat gives food flavor. Id rather go for a bike ride than skip butter on my toast. If youre still skeptical, Davis has the ultimate butter moment: a crusty baguette, a generous slab of fresh cultured butter, and maybe a few spring radishes. Its about as good as it gets. Related... If you buy something through a link in this article, we may earn commission. The Gunvor Maersk container ship at the Port of Los Angeles in Los Angeles, California, on July 8. US importers, particularly small businesses, are bracing for the next wave of tariffs. - Eric Thayer/Bloomberg/Getty Images On August 1, hundreds of countries will come to learn their fate with the United States, when President Donald Trumps pause on reciprocal tariffs ends. Thousands of US businesses will also learn their fates. However, after months of whipsaw trade policy, planning with any sort of certainty has proven near impossible. I dont think Ill know that Im out of the chess pieces until Im right there, but its clear that Im getting closer, said Sarah Wells, founder of Sarah Wells Bags, designer bags for breast pumps that are imported. Ninety-seven percent of US businesses that import products are small businesses, according to the Commerce Department. Owners have been trying to navigate the complexities of shifting trade policy all while trying to run their businesses, leaving them confused, financially strapped or worse forced out of business. Not knowing if certain key suppliers will have new trade deals or frameworks at lower or higher tariff rates has made it incredibly difficult for retailers of all sizes to properly plan and forecast what the next buying and selling season will look like, said Jonathan Gold, the National Retail Federations vice president of supply shain and customs policy. As a result, consumers may be subject to higher costs as well as less product availability. Currently, imports from most countries (except China) face a 10% universal tariff. But in the last few weeks, dozens of countries have received warning letters from the Trump administration that they will face higher rates unless they negotiate a deal before August 1. That has run as high as 36% for Cambodia, 40% for Myanmar and 50% for Brazil. To date, seven countries have reached a framework for a trade deal. That includes the USs largest trading partner, the EU, which agreed Sunday to a 15% levy on most imports. It feels like its chasing me, Wells said of the tariffs. Wells started to move the production of her bags out of China in February, when Trump kicked off his trade war. Cambodia, with a 10% tariff rate, seemed like a much better deal than the 145%, then later 30%, rate on China. That is, until the Trump administration threatened Cambodia with a 36% tariff this month. That letter came just days before she placed her first $100,000 order with her new manufacturer in Phnom Penh. Garment workers walk back to their factory in Phnom Penh on April 3. Cambodia originally seemed a cost-effective alternative for US companies importing goods from China. But the Trump administration is now threatening higher tariffs on goods from Cambodia than those from China. - Tang Chhin Sothy/AFP/Getty Images If the higher tariff on Cambodia sticks, she will be paying more than she was in China. Ive tried to manufacture in the United States, but I cant. China, the policies chased me there. Now I am financially invested in Cambodia with the prospect of an incredibly high insurmountable tariff looming this August, said Wells. Business negotiates behind the scenes Its not just small businesses retailers of all sizes are feeling paralyzed by the on-and-off-again trade war. According to a survey released this month by global accounting firm KPMG, business leaders are pausing investment for up to a year amid tariff uncertainty. Tariffs are forcing companies to rethink their supply chains and investment timelines, but strategic change takes time. Nearly half of businesses reported it takes 7 to 12 months to implement significant supply chain adjustments, and more than half are already working to reconfigure their supply chains in response, the survey, which polled 300 US-based business leaders at companies with more than $1 billion in revenue, noted. Companies are just waiting to see how the new playing field will land in order for them to make important decisions, economically, said Pedro Casas Alatriste, CEO and executive vice president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Mexico. The General Motors plant, which exports vehicles to Canada and the US, in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico, on January 29. - Daniel Becerril/Reuters/File The American Chamber of Commerce in Mexico represents 1,500 US-based companies that operate in Mexico, including Apple, Coca-Cola and General Motors. Trump has threatened a 30% tariff on imports from Mexico on August 1. Large corporations can and do advocate behind the scenes in Washington, DC. Meanwhile, small businesses have less power and influence on trade policy and are often more vulnerable to the impacts of tariffs. Many small and medium-sized companies are literally fighting for their lives. And then there are the other big ones, lets call it the GMs of the world, that are pursuing a more active strategy in DC, calling out different stakeholders that are capable of influencing President Trump, while at the same time being extremely cautious on how to do this, said Casas Alatriste. Waiting game Wolffer Estate Vineyard in Long Island, New York, which currently imports wine from Germany, France, and Argentina. - Courtesy Wolffer Estate Vineyard Even when a trade agreement is announced by Trump, for some companies, the uncertainty still remains. It is all very uncertain because as we know, he changes his mind or negotiates deals, adds delays. We dont really know what exactly is coming, said Max Rohn, CEO of Wolffer Estate Vineyard. Mid-sized winemaker Wolffer Estate Vineyard manufactures wine in the farmlands of Long Island, New York. It also imports blends from Germany, France, and Argentina. The winery currently pays tariffs on its wine imports from the EU and Argentina, as well as on glassware, labels and barrels. Wolffer cannot move its supply chain, and its Long Island vineyard only has a limited amount of acreage to grow grapes. With wine, its very difficult because champagne is from Champagne, and thats not a product you can substitute, said Rohn. But while Sundays framework raising tariffs on products from the EU to 15% isnt as bad of the previously threatened 30%, the cost still hurts, according to Rohn. The company is currently rushing in 20,000 cases of wine from Europe to the US before August 1. The vineyard has enough product to sell through the end of the year, but after that, it will have to import next years vintage. Wolffer Estate Vineyard cannot move their supply chain, and have limited acreage at their Long Island, New York, vineyard to grow more grapes. - Courtesy Wolffer Estate Vineyard So far, the vineyard has absorbed the tariff cost and avoided raising prices, which Rohn said would almost certainly deter customers. We are going to take a wait and see regarding raising prices on our European imports. We will try as best as we can to hold off, he said, adding that we know it is still fluid. There are more discussions and deals and changes can always happen. For Wells, she is running out of options. Shes already raised prices and is running low on the inventory she has in the United States. Soon, shell have no choice but to bring in some of her order from Cambodia at whatever tariff rate is imposed on August 1. Ive already cut all of those extraneous expenses. I stopped taking any kind of salary in May as the CEO, she said. Weve cut everywhere we can cut. So do we start laying people off to free up a little bit of cash? And in an environment where businesses are competing for every consumer dollar, businesses are turning to one another to try to make sense of how to plan for what comes next. The answer is not always comforting. Its one of those things that its out of your control. When I ask around, its just a lot of hands in the air. I dont know. Theres nothing, what can we do? said Rohn. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Drive 100 miles south, from Hungarys capital, Budapest, and youll arrive at a vast industrial site where half-constructed factory buildings stretch over more than a square mile of former wheat fields. There, on a searing hot morning outside the town of Szeged, a worker toiling alongside cranes and earthmovers hauls a cracked pot out of the ground, and holds it up in the blistering sun. This is thousands of years old! he exclaims, explaining that it probably dates to the Roman Empire, which once ruled these parts. Now another great powerChinais putting down stakes here in the heart of Europe. By years end, the first electric vehicles will roll out of a factory on this site, courtesy of Chinese EV maker BYD Autothe biggest seller of battery-powered cars in the world, and increasingly the one legacy automakers most fear. Beginning in 2026, this plant will produce about 150,000 compact all-electric sedans a year, ideal for Europes narrow streets; production is expected to rise to 300,000 cars a year by 2030. If BYDs intentions werent clear enough, a blizzard of billboards and television ads across the continent features the slogan Made in Europe, for Europe. More than 5,200 miles from headquarters in Shenzhen, the factory is a crucial piece of BYDs all-out push for global primacy, in an industry that was virtually created byand until very recently dominated bya much more familiar name: Tesla. Call this Elon Musks worst nightmare, come to life in concrete and steel. By some metrics, Tesla still has swagger: Its valuation of around $1 trillion is seven times as high as BYDshigher, indeed, than any other automakers. Tesla remains the leading EV brand in the U.S., where Chinese manufacturers are effectively blocked by tariffs of more than 100%. But globally, BYD is racing ahead of its competitors. And its success is an equally bad-dream-come-true for older Fortune Global 500 car giants, like GM, Toyota, Ford, and Volkswagen, whose immense clout has for decades shaped the politics and economic prospects of the U.S. and Europe. BYDs factory in Szeged, set to open this year, will eventually produce 300,000 cars a year. China produced more than 70% of all EVs last year, according to the International Energy Agency, while European manufacturers produced 14%, and Americans less than 10%. In the $4-trillion-plus global auto industry, the breakneck pace growth strategies of Chinese carmakers, led by BYD, have broken a dam. Volkswagens EV transition has finally gained traction; in July, it said its EV sales had nearly doubled year over year in the first half of 2025. But its losing market share to BYD nearly everywhere, especially in China. And VW and other European automakers are under siege at home: Chery, Xpeng, and Geely are among the Chinese companies scouting for European production sites, which could help them avoid tariffs. Until recently, few imagined that BYD, or Build Your Dreams, to use its flowery full name, could crush age-old titans. But its trajectory in recent years has been startling: It sold 4.25 million cars last year10 times the number in 2020and aims to sell 5.5 million this year; most of its 2024 sales were plugin hybrids. Two new BYD factories in China will each have greater production capacity than the worlds biggest auto plant today, the Volkswagen complex in Wolfsburg, Germany. With revenues up 27% to $108 billion in 2024, BYD has catapulted up the Fortune Global 500 ranks. Worldwide, Tesla sold 384,000 cars in the second quarter of this yearwhile BYD sold nearly 607,000 EVs in the same period. (Seemingly in response, Musk parted ways with his operations chief in the U.S. and Europe in June and took over the role himself.) Tesla sales have struggled everywhere, as more buyers appear to be turned off by Musks politics as well as Teslas high prices and limited selection of models. But the shift has been particularly noticeable in Europe, where BYD outsold Tesla for the first time in May. From the first electric car to the first 1 million cars, it took us 13 years, Stella Li tells me when we meet in Vienna. Li, BYDs executive vice president, heads its worldwide expansion and is the public face of BYD outside China. Then, from 1 million to 3 million it took us 18 months, she says. Now we are adding 1 million cars every two months. The question is, can BYD sustain this breathless pace, and still thriveeven if the U.S. remains off-limits? The answer could emerge in Europe, where 450 million people live across dozens of countries, many of them wealthy economies. BYD sold nearly 55,000 cars in Europe between January and May. Thats a tiny 1% of the regional marketbut triple its sales in the same period last year. And BYD can offer rock-bottom pricessubsidized by Chinas government, say analyststo gain market share. What theyre doing now is seducing the customer, and later theyll think about the profits, says Felipe Munoz, an Italy-based analyst for automotive intelligence firm JATO Dynamics. On a trip to his native Colombia this year, Munoz was stunned to see roads filled with BYD cars, once a rare sight. He believes Europe could soon look the same. If they keep growing at this speed, he says, Europe should expect big disruption in the coming months. On a sparkling July morning, I am cruising down the Champs-Elysees, the sun peeking through the tall plane trees. For a moment I can almost glimpse the future Munoz envisions: Europes most famous avenue, jammed with BYDs. I have briefly borrowed a Dolphin Surf from a BYD showroom two blocks away, where it sells for less than 20,000 ($23,200), barely half the price of Teslas Model 3. Just as I am contemplating the joys of free parking near the Arc de Triomphecompact EVs park for free in Parisa sleek black BYD Seal, a plug-in hybrid costing about 47,000, slides into the next lane. To gain a global foothold, BYD has taken a path drastically different from that of other automakers. It was founded in 1995 as a battery companya move that now looks brilliantly prescientby Wang Chuanfu. Wang, an engineer orphaned in his teens, borrowed money from his cousin to launch the company. BYD had some success selling lithium-ion batteries to consumer electronics manufacturersincluding in the U.S., where Stella Li, then a statistician at BYD, once spent months wooing cell phone maker Motorola. From left: BYD CEO Wang, Charlie Munger and Warren Buffett of Berkshire Hathaway, and Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates in 2010. But Wang reinvented BYD in 2003 when he purchased a failing Chinese state-run carmaker, having concluded that his batteries could more easily transform the auto industry than the tech world. That move, in turn, attracted a transformative investor: Warren Buffett, who plowed $232 million into BYD in 2008, through Berkshire Hathaway, for a 10% stake, effectively enabling it to become a competitive automaker. Early vehicles were deemed clunky and ugly: Have you seen their cars? Elon Musk chuckled in 2011, when asked whether BYD worried him. But Buffetts stamp of approval helped lure more capital, and continues even today to help BYD open doors. A couple of years ago no one in Europe, and certainly not in America, had heard of this Chinese company BYD, says Sandor Nagy, deputy mayor of Szeged. But Warren Buffett: They have heard of him. In this corner of Hungary, BYDs disruption is well underway. Hungarian far-right Prime Minister Viktor Orbana close ally of President Trumphas spent years luring Chinese investors. In May, Li flew to the country with Wang to announce that BYDs European headquarters would soon open in Budapest and include a research center with 2,000 engineers. Shoppers in a BYD showroom in Budapest. The Hungarian venture is a departure for BYD. For decades, its strategy has centered around tight control of its supply chain, including the most valuable parts of all EVs: batteries, powertrain electronics, and driver assistance systems. The company makes about 16.4% of the worlds EV batteries. It also produces its own semiconductors, has stakes in mining companies for batteries raw materials, and even exports cars on its own freighters. In 2023, the Swiss bank UBS concluded that the companys tight vertical integration gave it at least a 25% cost advantage over automaker rivals. BYDs presence could transform Szeged, a quiet university town of 200,000 people. The company has said its factory will hire up to 4,000 workers, perhaps rising to 10,000. But BYD stands to gain far more than the host city. By producing within Europe, it avoids tariffs of about 17.5%, imposed last year after the E.U. accused Chinese automakers of undercutting competition through state subsidies. (Analysts at Germanys Kiel Institute for the World Economy estimate BYD received about 3.4 billion, or about $3.76 billion, in subsidies between 2018 and 2022.) Many analysts caution that this rate of expansion wont be sustainable for BYD and other Chinese EV makers. So far, it has entailed mounting debt and a willingness to forgo profits, and snags have ensued. Suppliers have reported BYD taking many months to pay their bills, and in July, the Wall Street Journal said BYD had billions in unexplained external current account charges on its balance sheet. BYD reports total debt of about $5.67 billion, but analysts told the Journal the companys debts to suppliers had risen to $54 billion over the past five years. (BYD says its financial details are fully disclosed in quarterly audited reports.) Complicating matters, Chinese automakers are engaged in a gloves-off battle to grab slices of the rocketing EV market by slashing prices. BYD sells its wildly popular Seagull hatchback, called the Dolphin Surf in Europe, for under $8,000 in China. The brutal price war in Chinas auto industry is obliterating profitability, S&P Global Ratings warned in June. BYD and others do not seem to care, at least for now. Chinese automakers launch new models at twice the rate of Western rivals and at half the investment cost, according to New Yorkbased consultancy AlixPartners. Since 2020, when Tesla unveiled the Model Y, BYD has launched about 40 new vehicles. Chinese automakers prioritize time to market above all else, says Stephen Dyer, head of AlixPartners Asian auto industry team. Their playbook is not Detroit or Germany: It is Silicon Valley. They have to keep products fresh, he says; a Chinese EV is much more like a smartphone. A diminutive woman with almost frenetic energy, Stella Li has emerged as BYDs crucial ambassador and strategist, with titles including CEO of BYD Americas and Europe. Li zips across the globe furiously, rarely making it back to her current home in Los Angeles, she says. The day I meet her in Vienna, she has flown in from Istanbul and will sleep that night in Germany. Europe is crucial to BYDs global push, Li says: If we can be successful here, we can be successful in any other country. Li has come to Vienna to ink a supply deal for the Szeged plant with Austrian steel manufacturer Voestalpine. The signing ceremony takes place on a rooftop in the museum quarter, with a sweeping view of the areas ornate domed buildings. For Li, its also an occasion to tout BYD to a select audience of steel executives and Chinese diplomats. A blur of motion in a pastel-blue pantsuit, she bounces about in thick-soled white sneakers, her arms darting around, while a wall-size screen behind her shows a series of BYD statistics. In a rapid-fire cadence, she says BYD will add a sales presence in 12 more European countries this year, totaling 1,000 stores. The company has just rolled out its one-millionth Seagull, and in February, it launched its Gods Eye driver-assistance software, which it plans to bring to Europe. Perhaps most crucially, its new flash-charging technology can take drivers 670 miles on a single charge, with 250 miles of drive time for every five minutes of rechargeas fast as pumping gas. It means we can drive from here to Rome without stopping! Li gushes, while a map of Europe flashes on the screen. When we sit down together, I ask Li whether she feels vindicated by BYDs growth. She says the company was long underrated as a battery manufacturer, and that was one reason Wang pivoted to making cars. We were too small, she says. Nobody looked at us. Those days are gone. In recent months, BYD has hired several executives from European automakers like Stellantis. The vehicles whose designs Musk once mocked are now crafted by engineers whom BYD has lured away from Audi and Alfa Romeo. Musk is no longer laughing: In 2023, he called BYD cars highly competitivea remark that proved an understatement. In Europe, Li says, the company will build sales partly by tapping the talent and networks that have defined the regions industry for a century beating its rivals, in a sense, by co-opting them. European companies have a legacy; they have a lot of traditions, she says, admiringly. The only part they are too much behind on is EVs and plug-in hybrids. In China, we put all our money, all our R&D expenses, into that. That decision is clearly paying offand could forever rewrite the history of a critical industry. This article appears in the August/September 2025 issue of Fortune with the headline BYD beat Tesla. Now its in the drivers seat. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com Jamie McCarthy/Getty; Alamy Chad Michael Murray NEED TO KNOW Chad Michael Murray says that he is most often approached about one iconic project, even decades after it aired Speaking to PEOPLE at a Freakier Friday screening, the actor said there is "one thing that most people" would come up to him about Movies, he added, are "a moment," but one project has an impact that's "a little bit vaster" After all these years and numerous projects behind him, Chad Michael Murray is still approached most often for his breakout role as Lucas Scott on The CW's One Tree Hill. Speaking to PEOPLE at a special screening of his new film Freakier Friday, Murray, 43, said he is still confronted with fans of the show more than two decades after it went off the air. "I would say probably One Tree Hill yeah, that's probably the one thing that most people would come [up to me] about ... but I mean, I was there for six years, so that's a large body of work," he said. "That's a large chunk of time, right? Where you do a movie, and it's a moment. You're there for three, four months. Right? And that movie's an hour and a half long versus someone sculpting 136 hours of good quality television. Right? I think that there's a chance that that impact might be a little bit vaster. You know what I mean?" Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. But fans also notice Murray for other reasons, with the actor telling people he often hears fans quote lines from his 2004 film, A Cinderella Story, or reference a scene in the 2003 film Freaky Friday, in which his character sings the Britney Spears song, "...Baby One More Time." "The quotes are usually from Cinderella Story. Or like the guy down there, he just sung 'Hit Me Baby One More Time' and I said he crushed it. He crushed it," Murray laughed. Murray added that his early career appearances were "terrifying" because he was so young and new to the industry. "It was terrifying. I was like, 'Welcome to Hollywood, kid. Go do this.' Literally," he added. Globe Photos/ZUMApress.com Sophia Bush and Chad Michael Murray on One Tree Hill One Tree Hill wrapped its nine-season run in April 2012, but Murray has previously spoken about the continued fandom of the show. This OTH family has grown with us and we've grown with them, Murray told PEOPLE in a 2024 interview. It's always been their show, it always was, and we've all done it together. "Without the fans, there is no One Tree Hill, no matter whether we're there making it or not, he says. The show would've gone away a long time ago, but they've kept it alive, and it struck a chord with so many people, still today. Read the original article on People National Cheesecake Day is Wednesday, July 30 and the Cheesecake Factory is celebrating with a new flavor and a sweet deal for customers. The restaurant chain revealed to USA TODAY last month it had launched a new flavor in honor of the holiday. The flavor, called Peach Perfect with Raspberry Drizzle, features a peach cheesecake with peaches, on a vanilla crust and finished with raspberry sauce, the company told USA TODAY. The Cheesecake Factory is launching a brand new peach-flavored cheesecake in honor of National Cheesecake Day this year. In addition, the chain is offering an "Any Slice, Half Price" deal on July 30. The offer is only valid on that one day for Cheesecake Rewards members dining in. The final part of the promotion features a charitable element. The company told USA TODAY that for each slice of Peach Perfect with Raspberry Drizzle sold through July 29, 2026, it will donate 25 cents to Feeding America. The restaurant chain says it has donated nearly $7 million to Feeding America in the past through its featured cheesecake sales. Origins of National Cheesecake Day, Cheesecake Factory According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, National Cheesecake Day was established in 1985. The dessert itself, however, has roots dating back to ancient Greece. In 1972, Evelyn and Oscar Overton moved to Los Angeles and opened the Cheesecake Factory Bakery. They soon began selling Evelyn's cheesecakes to restaurants throughout Los Angeles, according to the restaurant chain's website. Six years later, their son, David, decided to open a restaurant in Beverly Hills to showcase his mother's cheesecakes. That restaurant became the first Cheesecake Factory location. More food deals: $2 pizza at Pizza Hut? How to get your slice of the Tuesday deal Cheesecake Factory offers a variety of flavors The Cheesecake Factory says it has more than 30 varieties of cheesecake on its menu, including a Fresh Strawberry flavor that the company says has been its most popular flavor for over 45 years. Other flavors available include an Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake, Coconut Cream Pie Cheesecake, and a Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake, among others. These, of course, are all a part of the "Any Slice, Half Price" deal. Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at Gdhauari@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: National Cheesecake Day: Cheesecake Factory announces deal, new flavor Key Points China ranks as the top dog in Asia for tank superiority, with the PLA fielding nearly 7,000 tanks While Russia maintains the largest artillery arsenal in the world, it falls short of the Chinese in this aspect This disparity might be explained by military doctrine or even production capacity Its hard to believe, but today there are credit cards offering up to 5% cash back, large statement credits, $0 annual fees, travel rewards, and more. See for yourself. If you apply for a card today you could secure some of the best rewards out there. Click here to get started. China ranks as the top dog in Asia for tank superiority, in sheer numbers at least. The PLA fields nearly 7,000 tanks that dwarf practically all of its neighbors. While Russia maintains the largest artillery arsenal in the world, it falls short of the Chinese in this aspect. Some might chalk this up to a divergence in military doctrine or even production capacity, but what is true is that China is the "Tank King" of Asia. Here, 24/7 Wall St. is taking a closer look at how Asian nations stack up in terms of their tank arsenals. To identify the Asian countries with the most tanks, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed the 2025 Military Strength Ranking from Global Firepower, an annually updated defense-related statistics website with information on 145 countries. Countries were ranked on the total number of tanks in their arsenal. We included supplemental information regarding the total military vehicles, artillery and MLRS units, as well as each countrys overall military strength score and defense budget. Countries without tanks were excluded. Here is a look at the countries with the largest tank armies in Asia: Why Are We Covering This? Globe map focused on China. Russia Globe map focused on Russia. Close up map China. Close up map Russia. Globus with Asia and Russian Federation. Understanding the military dynamics of Asia is important considering the region's complex geopolitical landscape and its growing strategic significance. Historically, Asia has been shaped by internal conflicts, border disputes, and great power competition. Today, its military forces play an important role in determining regional stability. As tensions rise over territorial claims and political influence, military power is the law of the land, from disputes in the South China Sea to the contested borders in South Asia. 41. Philippines Total number of tanks: 10 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 306 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 0 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 11,878 Active duty military personnel: 150,000 Military defense budget: $4,380,000,000 - #55 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.6987 - #41 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, the Philippines has 202 military aircraft (including 25 attack aircraft and 122 helicopters). The Philippines has 150,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 118.28 million. 40. Tajikistan Total number of tanks: 38 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 16 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 20 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 1,240 Active duty military personnel: 9,500 Military defense budget: $446,000,000 - #108 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 2.3049 - #108 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Tajikistan has 25 military aircraft, most of which are helicopters. Tajikistan has 9,500 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 10.39 million. 39. Sri Lanka Total number of tanks: 44 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 96 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 28 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 3,190 Active duty military personnel: 346,000 Military defense budget: $1,265,400,000 - #82 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.3941 - #69 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Sri Lanka has 85 military aircraft (including 5 fighter aircraft and 55 helicopters). Sri Lanka has 346,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 21.98 million. 38. Malaysia Total number of tanks: 48 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 196 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 36 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 13,506 Active duty military personnel: 113,000 Military defense budget: $4,800,000,000 - #50 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.7429 - #42 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Malaysia has 135 military aircraft (including 12 attack aircraft, 26 fighter aircraft, and 45 helicopters). Malaysia has 113,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 34.56 million. 37. Qatar Total number of tanks: 99 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 58 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 16 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 5,024 Active duty military personnel: 66,550 Military defense budget: $9,432,000,000 - #34 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.4307 - #72 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Qatar has 251 military aircraft (including 6 attack aircraft, 102 fighter aircraft, and 80 helicopters). Qatar has 66,550 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 2.552 million. 36. Armenia Total number of tanks: 109 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 293 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 100 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 1,306 Active duty military personnel: 57,500 Military defense budget: $1,700,000,000 - #74 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 2.0373 - #91 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Armenia has 71 military aircraft (including 15 attack aircraft, 4 fighter aircraft, and 36 helicopters). Armenia has 57,500 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 2.977 million. 35. Lebanon Total number of tanks: 116 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 365 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 11 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 4,538 Active duty military personnel: 60,000 Military defense budget: $768,250,325 - #97 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 2.5981 - #115 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Lebanon has 80 military aircraft (including 9 attack aircraft and 68 helicopters). Lebanon has 60,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 5.364 million. 34. Georgia Total number of tanks: 123 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 188 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 42 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 3,392 Active duty military personnel: 55,000 Military defense budget: $495,629,055 - #105 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 2.0695 - #94 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Georgia has 61 military aircraft (including 5 attack aircraft and 44 helicopters). Georgia has 55,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 4.901 million. 33. Bahrain Total number of tanks: 150 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 64 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 17 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 2,764 Active duty military personnel: 18,400 Military defense budget: $1,597,200,000 - #75 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.7448 - #81 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Bahrain has 132 military aircraft (including 24 fighter aircraft and 80 helicopters). Bahrain has 18,400 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 1.567 million. 32. Oman Total number of tanks: 150 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 164 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 0 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 4,084 Active duty military personnel: 42,600 Military defense budget: $8,200,000,000 - #36 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.8047 - #82 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Oman has 128 military aircraft (including 10 attack aircraft, 29 fighter aircraft, and 31 helicopters). Oman has 42,600 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 3.902 million. 31. Laos Total number of tanks: 160 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 127 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 64 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 4,380 Active duty military personnel: 100,000 Military defense budget: $135,000,000 - #138 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 2.2663 - #106 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Laos has 33 military aircraft, most of which are helicopters. Laos has 100,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 7.954 million. 30. Singapore Total number of tanks: 170 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 137 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 24 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 8,998 Active duty military personnel: 51,000 Military defense budget: $15,000,000,000 - #26 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.5271 - #29 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Singapore has 230 military aircraft (including 100 fighter aircraft and 70 helicopters). Singapore has 51,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 6.028 million. 29. Kyrgyzstan Total number of tanks: 215 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 199 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 21 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 2,686 Active duty military personnel: 23,000 Military defense budget: $221,800,000 - #130 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 2.2543 - #105 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Kyrgyzstan has 7 military aircraft, all of which are helicopters. Kyrgyzstan has 23,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 6.172 million. 28. Bangladesh Total number of tanks: 320 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 602 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 110 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 11,584 Active duty military personnel: 163,000 Military defense budget: $4,374,000,000 - #56 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.6062 - #35 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Bangladesh has 214 military aircraft (including 42 fighter aircraft and 65 helicopters). Bangladesh has 163,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 168.70 million. 27. Indonesia Total number of tanks: 331 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 549 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 63 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 20,440 Active duty military personnel: 400,000 Military defense budget: $10,600,000,000 - #29 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.2557 - #13 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Indonesia has 459 military aircraft (including 34 attack aircraft, 41 fighter aircraft, and 214 helicopters). Indonesia has 400,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 281.56 million. 26. Uzbekistan Total number of tanks: 340 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 383 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 108 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 2,970 Active duty military personnel: 48,000 Military defense budget: $2,803,500,000 - #63 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.1121 - #58 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Uzbekistan has 192 military aircraft (including 13 attack aircraft, 58 fighter aircraft, and 101 helicopters). Uzbekistan has 48,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 36.52 million. 25. Kazakhstan map, Kazakhstan Total number of tanks: 350 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 320 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 287 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 7,736 Active duty military personnel: 110,000 Military defense budget: $2,048,700,000 - #72 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.1016 - #57 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Kazakhstan has 198 military aircraft (including 25 attack aircraft, 63 fighter aircraft, and 65 helicopters). Kazakhstan has 110,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 20.26 million. 24. United Arab Emirates Total number of tanks: 354 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 264 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 49 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 8,707 Active duty military personnel: 65,000 Military defense budget: $2,212,360,382 - #70 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.0186 - #54 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, the United Arab Emirates has 551 military aircraft (including 16 attack aircraft, 99 fighter aircraft, and 247 helicopters). The United Arab Emirates has 65,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 10.03 million. 23. Syria Total number of tanks: 365 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 731 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 204 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 11,148 Active duty military personnel: 170,000 Military defense budget: $291,850,000 - #124 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.2771 - #64 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Syria has 207 military aircraft (including 9 attack aircraft, 104 fighter aircraft, and 77 helicopters). Syria has 170,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 23.87 million. 22. Kuwait Total number of tanks: 367 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 74 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 27 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 5,636 Active duty military personnel: 72,000 Military defense budget: $6,950,000,000 - #41 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.6982 - #79 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Kuwait has 128 military aircraft (including 43 fighter aircraft and 67 helicopters). Kuwait has 72,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 3.138 million. 21. Mongolia Total number of tanks: 420 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 500 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 130 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 2,560 Active duty military personnel: 35,000 Military defense budget: $165,110,000 - #135 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 2.1135 - #98 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Mongolia has 7 military aircraft. Mongolia has 35,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 3.282 million. 20. Myanmar Total number of tanks: 445 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 305 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 180 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 5,980 Active duty military personnel: 150,000 Military defense budget: $2,948,000,000 - #62 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.6735 - #37 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Myanmar has 317 military aircraft (including 26 attack aircraft, 58 fighter aircraft, and 83 helicopters). Myanmar has 150,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 57.53 million. 19. Azerbaijan Total number of tanks: 497 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 848 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 268 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 7,642 Active duty military personnel: 126,400 Military defense budget: $5,000,000,000 - #49 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.2531 - #60 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Azerbaijan has 154 military aircraft (including 18 attack aircraft, 12 fighter aircraft, and 86 helicopters). Azerbaijan has 126,400 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 10.65 million. 18. Japan Total number of tanks: 521 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 629 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 54 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 31,964 Active duty military personnel: 247,150 Military defense budget: $57,000,000,000 - #7 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.1839 - #7 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Japan has 1,443 military aircraft (including 38 attack aircraft, 217 fighter aircraft, and 596 helicopters). Japan has 247,150 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 123.2 million. 17. Thailand Total number of tanks: 635 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 639 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 26 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 16,935 Active duty military personnel: 360,850 Military defense budget: $5,887,883,500 - #45 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.4536 - #26 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Thailand has 493 military aircraft (including 20 attack aircraft, 72 fighter aircraft, and 258 helicopters). Thailand has 360,850 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 69.92 million. 16. Cambodia Total number of tanks: 644 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 460 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 463 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 3,627 Active duty military personnel: 221,000 Military defense budget: $860,000,000 - #92 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 2.0752 - #95 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Cambodia has 25 military aircraft, most of which are helicopters. Cambodia has 221,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 17.06 million. 15. Turkmenistan Total number of tanks: 654 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 523 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 164 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 5,016 Active duty military personnel: 36,500 Military defense budget: $1,078,020,000 - #86 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.6512 - #77 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Turkmenistan has 91 military aircraft (including 27 attack aircraft, 24 fighter aircraft, and 26 helicopters). Turkmenistan has 36,500 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 5.744 million. 14. Saudi Arabia Total number of tanks: 840 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 799 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 321 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 19,040 Active duty military personnel: 257,000 Military defense budget: $74,760,000,000 - #5 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.4201 - #25 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Saudi Arabia has 917 military aircraft (including 81 attack aircraft, 283 fighter aircraft, and 264 helicopters). Saudi Arabia has 257,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 36.54 million. 13. Taiwan Taiwan+tanks | M41 Walker Bulldog (M41A2 or A3) Total number of tanks: 888 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 1,848 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 234 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 19,921 Active duty military personnel: 215,000 Military defense budget: $19,740,000,000 - #23 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.3988 - #23 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Taiwan has 761 military aircraft (including 285 fighter aircraft and 236 helicopters). Taiwan has 215,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 23.60 million. 12. Iraq Total number of tanks: 1,025 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 1044 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 572 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 37,288 Active duty military personnel: 193,000 Military defense budget: $7,923,000,000 - #37 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.7738 - #43 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Iraq has 391 military aircraft (including 36 attack aircraft, 26 fighter aircraft, and 197 helicopters). Iraq has 193,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 42.08 million. 11. Israel Total number of tanks: 1,300 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 523 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 183 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 35,985 Active duty military personnel: 170,000 Military defense budget: $30,500,000,000 - #17 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.2661 - #15 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Israel has 611 military aircraft (including 38 attack aircraft, 240 fighter aircraft, and 147 helicopters). Israel has 170,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 9.403 million. 10. Vietnam Total number of tanks: 1,374 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 575 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 474 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 11,912 Active duty military personnel: 600,000 Military defense budget: $8,594,000,000 - #35 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.4024 - #24 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Vietnam has 246 military aircraft (including 32 attack aircraft, 41 fighter aircraft, and 101 helicopters). Vietnam has 600,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 105.76 million. 9. Jordan Jordan+tanks | Light 'em Up Total number of tanks: 1,458 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 438 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 56 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 16,624 Active duty military personnel: 100,500 Military defense budget: $2,500,000,000 - #65 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 1.6139 - #76 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Jordan has 274 military aircraft (including 6 attack aircraft, 44 fighter aircraft, and 155 helicopters). Jordan has 100,500 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 11.17 million. 8. Iran Total number of tanks: 1,713 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 2,462 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 1,517 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 65,825 Active duty military personnel: 610,000 Military defense budget: $15,450,000,000 - #25 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.3048 - #16 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Iran has 551 military aircraft (including 21 attack aircraft, 188 fighter aircraft, and 128 helicopters). Iran has 610,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 88.39 million. 7. South Korea Total number of tanks: 2,236 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 7,670 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 426 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 58,880 Active duty military personnel: 600,000 Military defense budget: $46,300,000,000 - #14 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.1656 - #5 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, South Korea has 1,592 military aircraft (including 98 attack aircraft, 315 fighter aircraft, and 807 helicopters). South Korea has 600,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 52.08 million. 6. Turkey Total number of tanks: 2,238 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 2,745 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 296 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 61,173 Active duty military personnel: 355,200 Military defense budget: $47,000,000,000 - #13 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.1902 - #9 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Turkey has 1,083 military aircraft (including 201 fighter aircraft and 508 helicopters). Turkey has 355,200 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 84.12 million. 5. Pakistan Total number of tanks: 2,627 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 3,291 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 600 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 17,516 Active duty military personnel: 654,000 Military defense budget: $7,640,000,000 - #38 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.2513 - #12 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Pakistan has 1,399 military aircraft (including 90 attack aircraft, 328 fighter aircraft, and 373 helicopters). Pakistan has 654,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 252.36 million. 4. India Total number of tanks: 4,201 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 4,075 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 264 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 148,594 Active duty military personnel: 1,455,550 Military defense budget: $75,000,000,000 - #4 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.1184 - #4 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, India has 2,229 military aircraft (including 130 attack aircraft, 513 fighter aircraft, and 899 helicopters). India has 1,455,550 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 1.409 billion. 3. North Korea Total number of tanks: 4,344 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 2,000 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 1,500 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 18,288 Active duty military personnel: 1,320,000 Military defense budget: $4,736,000,000 - #51 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.6016 - #34 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, North Korea has 861 military aircraft (including 114 attack aircraft, 368 fighter aircraft, and 205 helicopters). North Korea has 1,320,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 26.30 million. 2. Russia Total number of tanks: 5,750 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 13,673 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 3,005 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 131,527 Active duty military personnel: 1,320,000 Military defense budget: $126,000,000,000 - #3 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.0788 - #2 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, Russia has 4,292 military aircraft (including 689 attack aircraft, 833 fighter aircraft, and 1,651 helicopters). Russia has 1,320,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 140.82 million. 1. China Total number of tanks: 6,800 Total count of artillery (self propelled and towed): 4,490 Total inventory of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS): 2,750 Total military vehicles currently in active service: 144,017 Active duty military personnel: 2,035,000 Military defense budget: $266,850,000,000 - #2 out of 145 Military strength score and world rank: 0.0788 - #3 out of 145 Apart from the ground forces, China has 3,309 military aircraft (including 371 attack aircraft, 1,212 fighter aircraft, and 913 helicopters). China has 2,035,000 active-duty personnel out of a total population of 1.415 billion. Get Ready To Retire (Sponsored) Start by taking a quick retirement quiz from SmartAsset that will match you with up to 3 financial advisors that serve your area and beyond in 5 minutes, or less. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. Heres how it works: 1. Answer SmartAsset advisor match quiz 2. Review your pre-screened matches at your leisure. Check out the advisors profiles. 3. Speak with advisors at no cost to you. Have an introductory call on the phone or introduction in person and choose whom to work with in the future Click here to get started! The post China Leads Asia at 6,800 Tanks, Outpaces Russia by Over 1,000 Units appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. Washington Democratic Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey sparred with fellow Democrats on Tuesday over a bipartisan policing package, accusing them of being "complicit" in President Trump's agenda in a rare moment of intraparty disagreement that played out on the Senate floor. The heated exchange arose after Booker objected to a motion from Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, a Democrat from Nevada, to swiftly pass a package of bills related to law enforcement. Booker said he wanted to make a change to the bloc of measures to ensure resources are distributed equally among law enforcement agencies in response to the Justice Department's changes to grant programs and cancellation of awards. "We are standing at a moment where our president is eviscerating the Constitution of the United States of America, and we're willing to go along with that today," he said. "No, no. Not on my watch. I stand against this. It is a violation of our Constitution for the president of the United States to ignore the will of Congress and decide which states are eligible for grants and which are not." Booker accused Cortez Masto and Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat who backs the legislative package, of lecturing him. "What I am tired of is when the president of the United States violates the Constitution, trashes our norms and traditions and what does the Democratic Party do? Comply? Allow him? Beg for scraps? No. I demand justice," he said. Booker said the Democratic Party "needs a wake-up call." "It's time for Democrats to have a backbone. It's time for us to fight. It's time for us to draw lines," he said, as his voice started rising. "Don't question my integrity. Don't question my motives." Booker said in his remarks from the Senate floor that the Justice Department has been weaponizing public safety grants to punish state and local jurisdictions that oppose Mr. Trump's second-term agenda, and it is withholding funds from law enforcement agencies across the country when they were approved by Congress with bipartisan backing. "It is disgraceful, it is unfair, it is unjust and it is dangerously reckless toward the officers whose well-being they are jeopardizing," Booker said. "Federal funds should not be used for partisan political gains." The New Jersey Democrat lambasted his colleagues and accused them of effectively blessing Mr. Trump's decision to rescind grant funds by approving the legislative package. "For us as a body to move forward right now is being complicit in what Donald Trump is doing," Booker said. "I say no. I say we stand. I say we fight. I say we reject this, and that in a bipartisan way, we demand an end to this kind of constitutionally unjust carving up of the resources we approve." Booker had put forward an amendment to the bloc of bills that he said would prevent politicization and ensure resources are spread evenly among law enforcement agencies, regardless of the state they are in. Senator Cory Booker, a Democrat from New Jersey, speaks to members of the media while arriving for a vote at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, US, on Thursday, July 17, 2025. / Credit: Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images "This to me is the problem with Democrats in America right now, is we're willing to be complicit to Donald Trump, to let this pass through when we have all the leverage right now there is, to say, 'if you're as passionate about police as we are, then pass bills out of this body that will help the police officers in Washington, that will help the police officers in Illinois, that will help the police officers in New Jersey,'" he said. "Don't be complicit to the president of the United States." In response, Cortez Masto said the measures had been approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee with bipartisan support including by Booker. She criticized him for not putting forth his proposed amendment when the bills were before the panel and said his suggested change doesn't apply to her legislation. "This is ridiculous," she said, adding that Booker should have raised his concerns weeks ago. "Is this the right venue to fight for what he is seeking?" Klobuchar, in her own remarks on the Senate floor, also defended the package and suggested Booker had missed the committee meeting when they were marked up. Booker is a member of the Judiciary Committee. "I can't help it if someone couldn't change their schedule to be there," she said. Klobuchar said Booker has had issues with her policing bill that predate Mr. Trump's return to the White House, adding, "One of the things I don't understand here is that we have committees for a reason, and we have hearings for a reason. And you can't do one thing on Police Week and not show up and not object and let these bills go through, and then say another a few weeks later on the floor." The tense back-and-forth came as Democrats have struggled to coalesce around a strategy for pushing back against Mr. Trump's second-term agenda. Republicans control both the House and Senate, leaving Democrats with limited means to derail his legislative priorities if they disagree with them. Watch: Hawaii Gov. Josh Green gives update on tsunami warning Forensics expert analysis of Jeffrey Epstein jail video contradicts government's claims Russia reacts to Trump's new deadline on Ukraine ceasefire Costco Fans Say These Pickles Are Delicious But Theres One Red Flag originally appeared on Parade. Pickle lovers are delighted with a particular brand that Costco sells, but the packaging is killing their vibe. A Costco member shared a photo via Reddit of their newly purchased tub of Grillos Pickles, which is arguably one of the top brands of the tasty snack. However, the experience of enjoying the treat comes with one red flag. These pickles are delicious. I get them every time I'm at Costco, the person wrote in the Sunday, July 27, post. However, the packaging is inferior. They leak when they're unopened, and they leak when you open them. They leak just standing upright. Fellow Costco members shared their frustration over the wonky packaging, with some people admitting that the splash zone pickle juice turned them away from buying the product again. I quit buying these pickles because of all the plastic and mess, one person shared. These are my favorite pickles ever, and yet, I will only buy pickles in a glass jar now because of how much of a mess these pickles have made in my car and my house. Until they switch to glass, they're dead to me. A former Grillos Pickles employee revealed that they also dislike the packaging, admitting, I've been covered in pickle juice way too many times. Nonetheless, people in different areas of the country shared exciting news that their Grillos Pickles changed their packaging to a twist-off cap. A separate person pointed out that Costco sells the 52oz container, rather than the 32oz package, which sucks the pickle juice from the air-sealed packaging, leading to spillage. The main issue with the Costco one is that it's overfilled with juice with no air inside, the customer wrote. I always have to open it in the sink to prevent juicy gushage. Despite the debacle, the real pickle enthusiasts shared the perfect resolution to the juicy dilemma. Crack the lid and take a few big gulps of that pickle nectar, someone joked. SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox Costco Fans Say These Pickles Are Delicious But Theres One Red Flag first appeared on Parade on Jul 28, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 28, 2025, where it first appeared. A Delta Air Lines pilot that was taken into custody after landing at San Francisco International Airport was arrested on child sexual assault charges, authorities said. Rustom Bhagwagar, 34, was booked on five counts of oral copulation with a child under 10 years of age, according to a statement provided to USA TODAY by the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office on July 28. The statement said the arrest stemmed from an ongoing investigation that began with a report of "sex crimes against a child" made in April. County records show that Bhagwagar was arrested on July 26 and is being held in lieu of $5 million bail. It was unclear if Bhagwagar had legal representation, as of Monday afternoon, July 28, and an initial court date was not listed in the county record. Videos shared online and published by travel outlet View from the Wing showed officers walking down the aisle of flight 2809 after its arrival at San Francisco International Airport. The plane landed at approximately 9:35 p.m. the day of the arrest after a delay for heavy fog, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. Delta said in a statement that Bhagwagar had been suspended, pending investigation, and that the company is cooperating with law enforcement. "We are appalled by reports of the charges related to the arrest," the airline said. Charges bring clarity to scrutinized arrest The incident drew scrutiny as the nature of the arrest was not immediately clear prior to the statement from the sheriff's office. Hira Zhahir, a Homeland Security Investigations public affairs officer, told USA TODAY July 28 that the department was not the lead agency on the arrest, saying, "HSI was assisting Contra Costa Sherriff's office with an arrest warrant." Footage taken on the plane and published by View from the Wing shows some of the officers wearing plainclothes and badges. It is unclear from the footage if the officers were masked. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Delta pilot Rustom Bhagwagar faces child assault charges after arrest Express Newspapers/Getty Princess Diana and Prince Charles stand on the balcony of Buckingham Palace after their wedding ceremony at St. Paul's Cathedral, London, England, July 29, 1981. NEED TO KNOW Princess Diana married Prince Charles on July 29, 1981 During her wedding, she wore a massive ball gown designed by Elizabeth and David Emanuel In 2011, her designers revealed that a second, alternate dress was made, but no one knows where it ended up No bride was more iconic than Princess Diana. When the 20-year-old style icon married the future King Charles over three decades ago on July 29, 1981, fans and media outlets alike speculated about what she would wear as she walked down the aisle. Designers Elizabeth and David Emanuel were tasked with creating the royal wedding gown and took several precautions to keep the dress a secret prior to the nuptials. According to Royal Style in the Making exhibit curator Matthew Storey, the team put scraps of fabric that were not used on the actual dress in the garbage in case any members of the press went looking for clues. When the day finally came, Princess Diana arrived at St. Paul's Cathedral wearing a voluminous ivory ball gown with a sparkling veil and a record-breaking 25-foot train. In 2018, Elizabeth, who now runs her own fashion line, told PEOPLE, "[Diana] was just lovely, really kind of easy going. We never had any special instructions about how to make the wedding dress. That added a bit to the fun of it all, made it bit of an adventure." From the gown to the accessories and a secret second look, here are all the details behind Princess Diana's wedding dress. The dress featured a record-breaking train Fox Photos/Hulton Archive/Getty Princess Diana and Prince Charles Designed by Elizabeth and David Emanuel, Diana's gown was truly fit for a princess and embodied plenty of bridal trends from the early 1980s. The silk taffeta dress was specially woven and dyed ivory and featured a ruffled collar, puffed sleeves, voluminous skirt and, perhaps most notable, a dramatic 25-foot train and 153-yard tulle veil. The grand train broke records as the longest in royal wedding history. The length was suggested by David in response to the then-reigning length of 20 feet. "Halfway through, we realized, 'We're not going to finish this,' " he recalled to E! News. "Behind the scenes we're thinking, 'Maybe we've bitten off too much ... keep sewing!' " The train was so long that it had to be "folded like a bedsheet" to fit inside the horse-drawn carriage that transported the bride to St. Paul's Cathedral, resulting in wrinkles. Princess Diana practiced walking down the aisle with her flower girls Ron Bull/Toronto Star Princess Diana during the royal wedding The dress was also rather cumbersome to carry: Prince Charles' goddaughter India Hicks, who was in charge of guiding it down the aisle with the Queen's niece Lady Sarah, recalled to Harper's Bazaar that as Diana entered the cathedral, she told the girls, "Do your best." "We knew what that meant: If we pulled too much, straightening the material, her tiara and veil would slip," Hicks said. "But if we didn't pull enough, the effect of the train would be lost." The girls even practiced with a long dust cloth that they tied to Diana's waist. "She stood patiently as we were shown how to fold and unfold the fabric so it would glide effortlessly behind her," Hicks wrote. In addition to including antique lace from Queen Mary as Princess Diana's "something old," the wedding dress also featured a blue bow inside the bodice as the bride's "something blue." Diana put a hidden good luck charm on her dress, too: an 18-carat gold horseshoe trinket studded with white diamonds. Princess Diana's tiara was a family heirloom Princess Diana Archive/Getty Princess Diana and Prince Charles Princess Diana wore the Spencer Tiara on her wedding day, a Spencer family heirloom. The garland-style crown features diamonds shaped into tulips and stars, interspersed with continuous running scrolls, and was originally gifted to Diana's grandmother, Lady Cynthia Hamilton, on her wedding day in 1919. In addition to the tiara and her sapphire engagement ring from Prince Charles, Diana also wore a pair of diamond earrings with a pear-shaped diamond at the center and 50 smaller diamonds surrounding it that belonged to her mother, Frances Shand Kydd, according to Express. Her veil was stitched with 10,000 micro pearls Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty The wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer at St Paul's Cathedral in London, 29th July 1981 Princess Diana's custom tulle veil was hand-stitched by Peggy Umpleby of embroidery S. Lock (now Hand & Lock). Umpleby was tasked with creating a special visual effect on Diana's veil using 10,000 micro pearls. "I asked that the tiny mother of pearl sequins looked as if they were scattered on the tulle. As the sequins were almost transparent, only the sparkles of light would be visible, creating a fairy dust effect," Elizabeth told Vogue U.K. in 2021. "We used the same sequins on the gown itself, so that it would also sparkle as Diana walked down the aisle." Umpleby worked on the tulle piece from her own home. "In truth, she sat at her kitchen table embroidering for two solid weeks," Hand & Lock in-house fashion historian Robert McCaffrey told the outlet. "The veil was completed, sent to the Emanuels and she returned to work, only to have her colleagues remark on how pale she was despite her two-week 'holiday.' " Princess Diana's shoes featured an homage to Prince Charles Anwar Hussein/Getty Prince Charles and Princess Diana leave St. Paul's Cathedral following their wedding on July 29, 1981 in London, England Diana's wedding shoes, which featured a heart design on top and were adorned with 542 sequins and 132 pearls, were crafted by cobbler Clive Shilton. "Her main concern was that she wouldn't appear taller than Prince Charles, and because she was very tall 5'10" the shoes would have to have a low heel," Shilton told the Daily Mail. The letters "C" and "D" with a heart positioned between them were also painted just below the heel, per British Vogue. She had five different bodices made for her gown Jayne Fincher/Princess Diana Archive/Getty Prince Charles and Princess Diana leave St. Paul's Cathedral following their wedding on July 29, 1981 in London, England Diana lost so much weight in the lead-up to her wedding that five different bodices reportedly had to be made for her gown. "Most brides do lose weight," Elizabeth told PEOPLE in 2018. "So we weren't that worried when she did. She ended up with a 23-inch waist from a 26- to 27-inch." Diana spoke about her rapid weight loss in Andrew Morton's book Diana: Her True Story in Her Own Words, and said it came on the heels of a comment about her figure by the groom. "The bulimia started the week after we got engaged (and would take nearly a decade to overcome)," she shared. "My husband put his hand on my waistline and said: 'Oh, a bit chubby here, aren't we?' and that triggered off something in me." Additionally, Diana said that she was contending with feelings about her husband's ex, Camilla Parker Bowles. "And the Camilla thing," she added. On the day of the wedding, Princess Diana also spilled perfume on her dress while applying her favorite scent, Quelques Fleurs by Parisian perfume house Houbigant, creating a stain. Her bridal makeup artist, Barbara Daly, told PEOPLE in 2018 that she instructed Diana to hold that spot on her dress as she was walking, making it look like she was merely holding up her skirt so as not to trip over it. Princess Diana had an alternate wedding dress on standby Fox Photos/Hulton Archive/Getty The wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana in St Paul's Cathedral, London, 29th July 1981 Elizabeth shared that the team had constructed an alternate wedding dress for Princess Diana in case the design was leaked prior to the wedding. "At the time we wanted to make absolutely sure that the dress was a surprise," the designer told PEOPLE. "Had the secret of the real dress got out it's possible that Diana would actually have worn this one." The alternate dress, which was revealed for the first time in 2011, was also an ivory silk taffeta gown with the same ruffles around the neck as the original but without the signature lace. Luckily, the dress was never needed and it was also never finished. "We didn't try it on Diana. We never even discussed it," Elizabeth said. "We wanted to make sure that we had something there; it was for our own peace of mind, really." In August 2023, Elizabeth shared a never-before-seen photo of a woman working on the dress as it lay on a table. While the designer was able to locate this rare picture, she said the actual gown is missing. "I don't know where it went. It just disappeared," she said. Read the original article on People In an unprecedented move, New York-based Fangoria Studios is attending the Sanfic Morbido Lab for possible co-production opportunities. Horror is a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries, making it the perfect foundation for this partnership. Theres no better way to mark Fangoria coming onboard with Morbido than by celebrating Latin American horror that has captivated global audiences, said Fangoria Studios Armen Aghaeian, senior VP of TV + FILM, adding: After all, everyone screams in the same language. More from Variety Now marking its 6th edition at Chiles prominent Santiago Intl Film Festival (Sanfic), the lab has lured the likes of Julio Hernandez Cordon this year, best known for his award-winning pics I Promise You, Anarchy, Marimbas from Hell and Gasoline. This time hes pitching Cloudspotting (Enviame tormentas), a co-production between Diana Bustamantes Burning in Colombia and Mexicos newly launched Somos Maravillosa, led by producers Maria Jose Cordova and Triana Garcia Simon. Drama is set in a drought-stricken Mexico City where a boy named Humo revives ancient rituals to summon rain. Another standout project out of the six entries is Jorge Leyvas Sunward Hell (Ruta al sol), which already won a clutch of awards. It turns on Sara, a preacher struggling with her faith, who teams up with two others to face a savage pagan whose ancient secrets could trigger the Final Judgment. Morbido Group CEO Pablo Guisa Koestinger sifted through 68 submissions to choose five competing entries as Sunward Hell already had a direct pass from Ventana Sur Blood Window. The process of reviewing all the submissions for each year of Morbido Lab feels like examining an X-ray of the current state of Latin American genre filmmaking and I have to say, the genre in LatAm is not just alive but thriving, stronger than ever, said Guisa. Spanish producer Miguel Asensio Llamas, who has produced genre films in Chile and Mexico, including Eli Roths Knock Knock and Green Inferno, will participate in the Lab by sharing his experience on how to deliver Hollywood-standard productions in Latin America on a lean budget. Morbido Group also selects two projects to board, covering 10% and 20% of each projects final budget, said Guisa. In addition, it will dole out the Fantastic Pavilion Award which gives the winner a direct pass to participating in the Fantastic Pavilion round robin next year. Past projects that have been selected at Sanfic Morbido Lab and gone on to achieve notable success include Mothers Embrace, which completed its festival run, secured world sales and is now available on Netflix. Upiro is currently in post-production, while La Sirena de Monterrey became a Mexican-Argentinian co-production and recently applied for the Mexican tax incentive, led by Paulina Villavicencio. Another standout is Cachorra, which won as a project at the Guadalajara Festival, later participated in the Marche du Film and was presented at the Sitges Fantastic 7 showcase. A drill down on the selected projects: The Man Who Cries, (El hombre que llora, Leonardo Florentino, Argentina) Produced by Mar del Plata, Argentina-based Musgo Cine, founded in 2023 by Nicolas Werner, Florentino and Deborah Narvaez. The company aims to diversify Argentinas film landscape, focusing on stories set outside the capital. Their projects have been featured at major Latin American industry events like Sapcine (Colombia), Raymundo Gleyzer (Argentina), Bolivia LAB, CDPAI (Spain) and FERATUM Residency (Mexico). Currently in development, pic follows an apathetic journalist investigating strange deaths of teenagers, potentially caused by a supernatural figure: the Crying Man. The team seeks international co-producers. Filming is planned for the second half of 2026. For us, terror is not a trend or a way to elevate a story. We believe horror is the best genre to engage with reality, more so than crime stories, says Florentino who adds that the film tells a different story, one rooted in cosmic horror, akin to Lovecraft. Thats why the city, particularly Mar del Plata, plays such a strong role, with its landscapes and statues, almost as a character in itself. The film delves into deep themes like fatherhood and the extreme lengths a father might go to for his child, raising dark moral questions, says Werner. The Skin of the Forest, (La piel del bosque, Camilo Pineda, Inti Torres, Venezuela) A psychological thriller produced by Merida, Venezuela-based La Tina Films and Pedregosa Films, that follows a brilliant biology student who experiments with hallucinogenic mushrooms growing on human flesh, ultimately merging with a powerful ancient jungle entity. The project is co-produced with Imperatori Producciones (Venezuela) and Latido Producciones (Panama). Attached cast includes Margiangel Davila, Eloisa Maturen and Leonidas Urbina. With the script and casting already set, the production is currently seeking financing and participation in industry labs, with filming scheduled for mid-2026. Producer Alejandra Fonseca describes it as a blend of psychological horror and dark science fiction, with a surreal and atmospheric visual approach. The film explores themes such as obsession, scientific ethics, the loss of humanity, and the connection between human beings and nature, says co-director Pineda. Torres adds: The making of this horror film aims to create an immersive sensory experience where the scientific and the spiritual collide, using the forest as a living character that consumes the protagonists as the film progresses. Los Eastman, (Los Eastman, Mauricio Leiva-Cock, Colombia, Mexico) Currently in development and seeking financing, with shooting slated for January 2027, this genre-bending feature is co-written by director Mauricio Leiva-Cock (The Night of the Beast, The Head of Joaquin Murrieta) and Diego Gonzalez Cruz. The film is produced by Adriana Aparicio, Sebastian Hernandez, Juan Manuel Betancourt, and David Figueroa Garcia, in co-production with Fidelio Films (Mexico) and Colombian partners Maleza Cinema, Ruvrika, and Aparicio. Aparicio produced the Sitges winner Llanto Maldito, while Maleza Cinema, founded by Leiva-Cock, develops bold, socially driven genre projects. Ruvrika is led by Hernandez, editor of One Hundred Years of Solitude, and Betancourt, executive producer of Transition (Tribeca 2023). Set in Bogota during a virus outbreak, the story follows Viviana, a housekeeper held captive by her wealthy employers. Her struggle to escape and reunite with her family leads to a terrifying transformation revealing that privilege itself may be the true infection. Inspired by real events during COVID, the film shifts from social drama to psychological thriller, horror and ultimately, gore. We call it Social Gore, says Leiva-Cock, a Latin American blend of Parasite, Get Out, and Revenge. Sunward Hell, (Ruta al sol, Jorge Leyva, Mexico) Sunward Hell is the third feature film from La Tuerca Films, a Mexican production company led by producer Lilia Velazco and director-screenwriter Jorge Leyva, focused on genre cinema. Currently in advanced development, the project has gained strong industry momentum, winning awards at the Guadalajara Co-Production Meeting, Ventana Surs Blood Window and Fantasolab (Colombia), where it received eight prizes, including one from Latido Films. It has also been selected for prestigious forums such as Sitges Fanpitch, BIFF Market (Brussels), and is heading toward Iberseries Platino 2025 after Sanfic-Morbido Lab. Sunward Hell follows Sara, a preacher grappling with her faith, who alongside a redeemed rebel and a clever dreamer must survive a confrontation with a savage pagan harboring ancient secrets that could unleash the Final Judgment. Leyva describes the film as rooted in personal history, inspired by his mothers escape from a cult. I use rural horror as a mirror to expose the violence and psychological control that exists where it hurts most: in the domestic nucleus, where everything is supposedly safe. My intention is for fear to confront the viewer and lead them to an uncomfortable question: faced with absolute evil, what would I do? Hidden Roots, (Raices ocultas, Simon Bucher, Chile) The drama-horror film co-written by director Simon Bucher with Juan Bucher is produced by Machete Film & Content. Currently in development, filming is set for late 2026 to early 2027. The story follows Ben, a man illegally adopted during the Chilean dictatorship, who returns to Chile in 2024 with his pregnant wife to meet his biological siblings in Chiloe. As he reconnects with them, he is plagued by visions of the Invunche, a mythical creature from Chilean folklore. Together, they confront buried truths and emotional scars in a landscape steeped in mystery. Machete Film & Content, founded in Santiago in 2016 by Nicolas Maynetto, focuses on auteur-driven genre cinema and explores immersive formats like VR and interactive storytelling, delivering emotionally resonant narratives from a Latin American perspective. Hidden Roots is a fable about the children who were kidnapped during Chiles dictatorship and torn from their origins through illegal adoptions. Blending magical realism with the Chilean myth of the Invunche, the story gives shape to trauma and uprooted identity. It explores how history becomes monstrous when buried in silence, says Bucher. Cloudspotting, (Enviame tormentas, Julio Hernandez Cordon, Mexico, Colombia, Spain) From Somos Maravillosa, founded by Mexican producers Maria Jose Cordova and Triana Garcia Simon, who see the film addressing issues that not only concern us but demand an urgent response. Cordovas credits include acclaimed films like Eureka (Cannes 2023), Comprame un Revolver (Cannes 2019), and Oca (Toronto 2025), alongside hit series Sacred Family and The House of Flowers. Garcia Simon brings extensive experience as a studio executive and producer, having worked on Luis Miguel: The Series and Netflixs Snakes and Ladders, and Fiesta en la Madriguera. The company aims to create global, innovative stories rooted in Latin American and Spanish talent. Co-produced with Colombias Burning, Cloudspotting follows Humo, a boy who revives ancient rituals in a desperate quest for rain in a dystopian Mexico City. As storms rise and violence escalates, his obsession threatens to consume all. Production begins in 2026. Says Condon: My gore film talks about an obsession and love for clouds while hearts are literally being ripped out. In it, a pre-Columbian past is mixed with a dystopian future. Its a very special film for me, because I conceived it as an entertaining but political film that avoids being preachy. Just like George Millers movies. Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said it would be up to the president whether the tariff truce would be extended [EPA] Top officials from the US and China have ended two days of what both sides described as "constructive" talks over whether they will extend their 90-day tariff truce. China's trade negotiator Li Chenggang said Beijing and Washington had agreed to push to preserve the truce, under which both sides temporarily suspended some measures against each other. But US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said any extension would be up to President Donald Trump. The negotiations, held in Stockholm, Sweden came as a truce established in May is set to expire next month, threatening to revive the turmoil that hit in April when the two countries exchanged escalating tit-for-tat tariffs. Speaking to reporters on Air Force One on his way back to the US from Scotland, Trump said he had spoken to Bessent about the negotiations. "They had a very good meeting with China, and it seems that they're going to brief me tomorrow," he said. Trump started hiking tariffs on Chinese goods shortly after his return to the White House. China ultimately responded with tariffs of its own. Tensions escalated, with tariff rates hitting the triple digits, before a trade truce in May. That left Chinese goods facing an additional 30% tariff compared with the start of the year, with US goods facing a new 10% tariff in China. Without the truce being extended by the 12 August deadline, tariffs could "boomerang" back up, US officials said. "Nothing is agreed until we speak with President Trump," Bessent said, while downplaying the risks of escalation. "Just to tamp down that rhetoric, the meetings were very constructive. We just haven't given the sign off," he said. Beijing and Washington have been at loggerheads on a range of issues apart from tariffs. These include US demands that China's ByteDance sell TikTok to an American company and that China speed up its export of critical minerals. This was the the third meeting between the US and China since April. Negotiators for the two sides said they discussed each others' economies, implementation of terms previously agreed by Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping and rare earths, a key sticking point because of their importance in new technology including electric vehicles. The US also pressed China on its dealings with Russia and Iran. Li Chenggang said both sides were "fully aware of the importance of safeguarding a stable and sound China-US trade and economic relationship". Bessent said he felt the the US had momentum, after recent agreements that Trump has secured with Japan and the European Union. "I believe they were in more of a mood for wide-ranging discussion," he said. President Trump has long complained about the trade deficit with China, which last year saw the US buy $295bn (221bn) more goods from China than the other way round. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the US was already on track to reduce that gap by $50bn this year. But Bessent said the US was not looking to completely "de-couple". "We just need to de-risk with certain strategic industries, whether it's the rare earths, semiconductors, medicines," he said at a briefing for reporters after the conclusion of the talks. This image taken from video provided by WSVN-TV shows Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and others in boats around what appears to be a barge involved in an accident with a group of kids and an adult on a sailing boat during a sailing camp, Monday, July 28, 2025, in Miami. (WSVN-TV via AP) MIAMI (AP) Two children were killed and two more are in critical condition after a barge struck and sunk their boat, sending them overboard during a sailing camp in Miami on Monday, authorities said. All six people on the sailing boat were pulled from the water by responders, and four kids were rushed to a nearby hospital where two were pronounced dead upon arrival, said Petty Officer 3rd Class Nicholas Strasburg, a spokesperson for the U.S. Coast Guard. Two of the six who were rescued were in good condition, Strasburg said. The six one adult and five kids were in their last week of the sailing camp for children aged 7 to 15, according to the Miami Yacht Club. The entire MYC family is devastated by this terrible tragedy, said Emily Copeland, the commodore of the yacht club, in a statement. The sailing boat remained submerged beneath the barge in Biscayne Bay a body of water sandwiched between Miami and Miami Beach where there are several small islands, including Star Island, peppered with ritzy mansions. Across the U.S. last year, there were over 550 deaths in recreational boating, but only a sliver of those 43 were caused by vessels crashing into each other, according to Coast Guard statistics. The Coast Guard will conduct a thorough investigation, said Capt. Frank Florio, who heads the Coast Guards Miami sector, in a statement. We remain steadfast in our commitment to accountability, improvement, and the shared responsibility of ensuring safety at sea." Local television stations showed first responders, some in scuba diving gear, in boats around what appears to be a barge. The Coast Guard is investigating the crash. ____ Bedayn reported from Denver. Courtesy of Michele Ouellet Benson "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Scrolling through Instagram last year, I noticed interior designer Remy Renzullo, whose style in homes and in clothing is reminiscent of centuries past, repeatedly posting photos of himself wearing a distinct pair of slippers. He wore them with an embroidered vest and red socks in one outfit , a tuxedo and transparent socks in the next . The shoe looked like the grumpier, much older uncle of the soft, velvet Mary Janes that are so on trend right nowand I was hooked. This specific slipper silhouette is Venetian in heritage, more traditionally referred to as a friulane. Similar in silhouette and make to an espadrille, these velvet slippers feature a rubber sole, contrasting piping, and a peaked vamp slightly lower than that of an espadrille. They were initially handmade in Northern Italy from old scraps of velvet curtains in the 19th century, but are now offered online by brands like Italy-based Vibi Venezia and Piedaterre Venezia, and a similar pair of Spanish espadrilles from Flabelus. (A few seasons ago, The Row also did their own rendition of fiurlanes with a DOrsay cutaway detail.) Courtesy of Michele Ouellet Benson Intrigued, I kept scrolling and spotting. The dainty footwear popped up on the soles of model and co-founder of Lorenza Rose, Michele Ouellet Benson at the beach! I saved a post from last year where she wore a straw bucket hat, a little yellow dress, and her favorite slippers among the dunes. Benson discovered the slippers after seeing a very chic friend wearing a chocolate brown pair on vacation in Umbria about six years ago. She duly hunted for her own pair, selecting the Vibi Venezia black friulanes. Now, shes become obsessed, even gifting the slippers to each of her bridesmaids at her wedding. A Euro-summer staple, they flatten down to nothing in her carry-on and can handle walking all over a city. They dress down a slip dress and dress up denim cutoffs. I wear them to death every summer and refresh with a new pair the next year, she says. And the price is right! (The Vibi Venezia slippers retail for 93 or just over $100.) Courtesy of Michele Ouellet Benson I got my first pair from Flabelusnavy with red pipingand have been wearing them around the neighborhood with eyelet shorts and button-downs and to the office with an LBD and seashell jewelry. I attempted my first beach trial this year at the Rockawaysa city beach day trip is a soft entry into the coastal lifestyle. I will admit, I did avoid getting the velvet shoes wet, but my feet were often dry by the time I left anyway. And sand was no major issue; just shake them off before you go inside. I found myself sliding my foot in, trampling the back heel of the shoe like I used to doto my mothers dismaywith Converse when I was eight. (Benson endorses wearing the heel turned down when at the beach.) courtesy of camille freestone Casual wear achieved, I then clocked them on another of my favorite stylistically idiosyncratic Instagram follows, The World of Interiors Style Director Gianluca Longo, posting from a wedding . My mind was blown once more at their versatility. Longo wore a white shirt with a mandarin collar, sharp black trousers, and black Venetian slippersbare anklecircular glasses, and a black lace fan also in tow. The slippers look just as perfect at a wedding as they did at the beach. Satiated in menswear outfit inspiration, I jumped to the Arizona and New York-based vintage store Desert Vintages Instagram . They have a pair in heavy rotation (alongside much more upmarket styles like The Rows Noelle loafers) to style editorially with their unique vintage collection. For a more feminine take, the brand mixed one dark pair with an ankle-length Chloe dress from the 70s, another with tights and an oversized peasant blouse worn as a dress, then one more with a striped floor-length caftan. And each pair looks perfectly at home. Benson ruminates on why this simple pair of elfish slippers can travel from a wedding dancefloor to a beach boardwalk, noting, I love that they feel like an espadrille, but the velvet elevates them to something beyond. Her shoes must serve her varied lifestyle, and that could mean going from a day on a boat to dinner at a beautiful restaurant, she continues. I want my footwear to be beautiful and appropriate. Women's Classic Velvet Flats $140.00 at bloomingdales.com Sherezade Loafer $150.00 at nordstrom.com Cotton Easy Loafer Slippers $150.00 at bergdorfgoodman.com 10mm Marie Antoinette Velvet Slippers $112.00 at Luisaviaroma Elinor Flat in Brown $150.00 at nordstrom.com Modigliani Bicolore 125.00 at piedaterrevenezia.com You Might Also Like Heidi Klum/Instagram Heidi Klum and her family at the finale taping of Germany's Next Top Model in 2024. Heidi Klum spent most of her career modeling in catalogs or on the catwalk rocking sexy lingerie. And now her oldest daughter Leni Klum is following in her mom's modeling footsteps as the duo costars in campaigns for the Italian fashion brand Intimissimi. But Klums parenting was questioned in 2023 when she first appeared alongside Leni for the label, receiving backlash for the racy ad. A lot of people are like, Oh, I dont know about mom and daughter doing this together, she tells PEOPLE. But for us? Im proud of my daughter. Shes fine with me like that. She shrugs off the controversy. Ive always been very open with my body. When Im suntanning in the backyard, I might not have a top on. Im European my kids dont know me any other way and are probably more easygoing with their bodies because of it. Leni, 21, from Klum's previous relationship with Italian businessman Flavio Briatore, joins siblings Henry, 19, and Johan, 18, and daughter Lou, 15, from her marriage to ex-husband musician Seal. "You definitely go to the back of the line, she says of becoming a mom. When you have four kids, everyone always needs something, so you have to take care of everybody. Franziska Krug/Getty Heidi Klum and Leni Klum attend the Intimissimi Dinner at Bode Museum on October 6, 2023 in Berlin, Germany. While she may be very open about her sexuality around her children, Klum is still a typical mom who stresses about her kids. When theyre young, youre worried theyre going to jump in the pool or stick their finger in a socket, she says. Then theyre driving. Then its sex, drugs and rock and roll. You hope the seed you planted in them grows. That theyre good people. That theyre healthy. But you always worry. And I know Ill still be worrying when Im 80. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Leni isn't the only Klum kid in the modeling arena. Henry made his runway debut in Paris in January, followed by a modeling contract with NEXT Management, drawing praise not just for his looks, but his character. Sometimes someone will come to me and say, I just met your son. He is the kindest, nicest young man. That makes me feel good, she says. Because no one has to say that. Her kids also come to her for guidance, especially as their careers take shape. Lenis learned a lot over the years, Klum says. Sometimes shell say, Maybe I should have listened to my mom four years ago.' When youre young, being cool is everything. So maybe moms advice doesnt always feel cool at the time. Take PEOPLE with you! Subscribe to PEOPLE magazine to get the latest details on celebrity news, exclusive royal updates, how-it-happened true crime stories and more right to your mailbox. Heidi Klum/Instagram Heidi Klum and her sons Henry and Johan on July 5, 2025. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. As Klum continues to navigate her career with a big return to Project Runway's 21st season, she remains committed to living louder and bolder than ever before. The biggest misconception about your 50s is that you're off the shelf, she says. We are very much on that shelf for everyone to see. Beauty is ever-changing, and Im here for the change. If its always the same, life is boring." Stay tuned for more from our exclusive interview and photo shoot with Klum ahead of Project Runway's hotly anticipated season 21 premiere on Freeform, Hulu and Disney+ starting Thursday, July 31. Read the original article on People Hurricane Iona strengthened to a Category 3 storm in the central Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, several hundred miles off the southern coast of Hawaii, forecasters said. Iona was located about 790 miles south-southeast of Hawaii's capital city of Honolulu on Tuesday morning, with maximum sustained winds near 115 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center based in Miami. Forecasters said the storm didn't pose an immediate threat to the Hawaiian Islands and no coastal watches or warnings are in effect. Map shows Hurricane Iona's projected path A map shows the projected path of Hurricane Iona in the Pacific Ocean on July 29, 2025. / Credit: CBS News Iona was expected to move westward for the next couple of days, forecasters with the hurricane center said. "Additional strengthening is forecast tonight, with steady weakening expected to begin by Wednesday," the center said. Hurricane Iona is seen in the Pacific Ocean in a satellite image captured at 3:10 p.m. EDT, July 28, 2025. / Credit: NOAA/NESDIS/STAR GOES-West Iona initially formed as a tropical depression late Saturday night, forecasters said. As the depression gained strength, it became the first named storm in the central Pacific Ocean this season. It is one of two major weather systems in the central Pacific Ocean. Tropical Storm Keli is farther south with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. It was about 960 miles southeast of Honolulu and was moving west at about 12 mph. The eastern Pacific has seen several named storms so far this season. Last month, Erick made landfall in Mexico as a Category 3 hurricane. Earlier this month, Flossie also reached Category 3 strength as it skirted up the Mexican coast, but ultimately didn't make landfall. Barbara, this season's first hurricane in the eastern Pacific, reached Category 1 strength off Mexico's coast and also didn't make landfall. The Atlantic Ocean has seen three named tropical storms so far this year. Forecasters at Colorado State University expect the Atlantic season to be above average with 16 named storms, eight of which are expected to be hurricanes. John Oliver: The 60 Minutes Interview Finding the plane used for Argentina's dictatorship-era "death flights" | 60 Minutes Immigration agent told 18-year-old U.S. citizen "you got no rights here" during arrest Iran more than doubled the number of state executions it has carried out this year compared to data from the first half of 2024, confirmed the United Nations on Monday. The UN Human Rights Office said that at least 612 people have been executed this year alone, a figure more than double the 297 people who were killed during the same time period last year. Minority groups continue to make up a disproportionate number of those being killed by Tehran, confirmed the U.N. Portraits of the Iranian youths that the Iranian regime has killed seen displayed at the rally in Paris, France on May 13, 2025. Iran Ramps Up State Executions Amid Nuclear Talks With Us "It is alarming to see the reports that indicate there are at least 48 people currently on death row 12 of whom are believed to be at imminent risk of execution," U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Turk said on Monday. The news of the drastically increased number of state executions comes just one day after Tehran killed Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani on Sunday, both of whom were allegedly involved with the opposition movement known as the People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (MEK). Read On The Fox News App Maryam Rajavi, president-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, a dissident group based in Paris led by the MEK, took to X to condemn the killings, and quoted the final words of Behrouz Ehsani: "We will neverunder any circumstancessurrender to this bloodthirsty and criminal regime. Never shall we bow to humiliation." According to Amnesty International, "[both] were executed arbitrarily amid Irans horrific execution crisis." "Their executions highlight the authorities use of the death penalty as a tool of repression in times of national crisis to crush dissent and spread fear," the group added. More than 40% of those executed this year were convicted on drug-related offenses, while the U.N. also found that many were not only tried behind closed doors, but were issued vague charges like "enmity against God" and "corruption on earth" both of which are apparently used by the regime to "silence dissent." "Information received by my Office also indicates that judicial proceedings in a number of cases, often held behind closed doors, have consistently failed to meet due process and fair trial guarantees," Turk said in a statement. Iran Executes Over 1K Prisoners In 2024, Highest Total In 30 Years, Report Says The number of state executions has drastically escalated since President Massoud Pezeshkian took office in July 2024, with at least 975 people killed in 2024, the highest rate since 2015. The U.N. body further warned that Iran is looking to expand its use of the death penalty and is reviewing a new espionage bill that will redefine what it considers "collaboration with hostile States." Acts including online communication and collaborating with the foreign media will apparently call into question their "ideological alignment" and will be punishable by death. The changes come as Israel has called for a regime change in Tehran, and has repeatedly emphasized that the recent strikes were an attack against the government, not the Iranian people. A woman is laying down flowers for the victims of executions in Iran during the rally in Paris, France on May 13, 2025. "This bill dangerously broadens the scope of capital punishment for espionage, and I call for it to be rescinded," Turk said. "The death penalty is incompatible with the right to life and irreconcilable with human dignity. "Instead of accelerating executions, I urge Iran join the worldwide movement abolishing capital punishment, starting with a moratorium on all executions," he added. Original article source: Iran more than doubles state executions in first half of 2025 Justin Timberlake is saying Bye Bye Bye to his tour soon and some fans think thats for the best. The 44-year-old hitmaker embarked on his Forget Tomorrow World Tour in April 2024 and is now on the final leg, with only one show left in Istanbul, Turkey, on July 30. Over the past week, clips of the 10-time Grammy Award winner letting the crowd sing for him have gone viral on social media, with many fans criticizing Timberlake for his lack of vocals during performances. Apparently, Justin Timberlake put on a concert and simply let the audience sing his songs Imagine paying for this! one user wrote on X alongside a clip of the former NSync member letting the crowd sing the lyrics to Cant Stop the Feeling! I see a lot of artists do this when they get old and tired and cant really do it anymore, a second fan pointed out. Now thats one way to save the vocal cords Even I could give a concert like that, a third fan commented. Other fans didnt see an issue with the SexyBack artists performances. As someone who has seen hundreds of concerts I dont see what the problem is here, a fourth fan penned. I have experienced many many acts doing this during live shows, it is a way of making your fans part of the whole experience. Usually when it is done it is done for a verse or a chorus. No big deal. A fifth fan wrote, Yeah, imagine writing songs so good an entire crowd of people know them by heart. Another person jokingly empathized with Timberlake who has been on tour for well over a year, writing, I also get tired 5 minutes into my job. As Star previously reported, tension has been mounting behind the scenes with Timberlake and his wife, Jessica Biel with whom he shares sons Silas, 10, and Phineas, 4. The energy around them as a couple is really bad right now because they are on such different paths, a source recently revealed. When Justin gets off the road and gets back to family life, theres going to be a reckoning. The source shared that Biel, 43, had been killing herself with her Emmy campaign for her role in The Better Sister she did not earn a nomination and that Timberlake didnt participate much, partly due to his hectic work schedule but also because he might have too much baggage to make a difference there. Back in 2024, Timberlake was arrested for a DWI in New York, and rumors circulated that Biel was done with him. Additionally, the source noted that the couples closest friends are worried their union could all come apart before the end of the year. Kali Jean Randall/ Instagram; Idaho Missing Persons Clearinghouse/ Twitter Kali Jean Randall, Zeke Gregory Best NEED TO KNOW Jeremy Albert Best was sentenced last week to three consecutive life terms in prison without the possibility of parole The sentencings come after Best pleaded guilty in February to killing his pregnant wife, the couple's unborn child, and their 10-month-old son Zeke The 2023 murder led to a two-day manhunt that ended when Best was found naked next to his dead baby boy Jeremy Albert Best has been sentenced to three consecutive terms of life in prison for the Nov. 2023 murders of his pregnant wife, their unborn child and the couples 10-month-old son. Best, 50, reportedly apologized to his wifes family and his own at the sentencing hearing last Thursday, according to local ABC 8, CBS 2, and Jackson Hole Radio. The Idaho man pleaded guilty in February to shooting his pregnant wife Kali Jean Randall dead from behind on Nov. 30 before fleeing the home with their 10-month-old son Zeke. Police searched for Best and his son Zeke for two days before a group of hunters came across the father naked in the snow alongside a local highway and muttering incoherently with baby Zeke laying dead nearby, PEOPLE reported at the time. Best pleaded guilty earlier this year as part of an agreement that guaranteed he would avoid the death penalty, according to local KTVB 7. The outlet reported that Bests sentencing comes without the possibility of parole. This was the justice we hoped for, said Teton County Prosecuting Attorney Bailey Smith Baker, according to Jackson Hole Radio. We are pleased that the Court gave a life sentence for each victim. Bonneville County Sheriff Jeremy Allen Best Randalls family said in a statement after Bests arrest in Dec. 2023 that the pain we feel is unimaginable after the expecting mother was found dead inside the familys home in Victor, Idaho. Officers responded to the home after someone called police and quickly hung up. A womans voice could be heard screaming, Jeremy! Jeremy, no! on the brief 911 call, PEOPLE previously reported. Randall was 38 at the time of her death. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Idaho Missing Persons Clearinghouse/ Twitter Jeremy Albert Best Randalls brother Brian Randall had told PEOPLE after his sisters death that she was absolutely a genuine beautiful soul and that he never suspected Best, her husband, of being anything but a normal guy. Brian told PEOPLE that his sister had met Best in 2009. The couple married in September 2022, her social media posts show. Kali was an artist who made handcrafted jewelry and formerly worked as a veterinarian technician, her brother told PEOPLE. "Sometimes maybe you don't know people, Brian said, noting there had been no known conflicts between the married couple. If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages. Read the original article on People Allrecipes/Getty Images Key Points Krispy Kreme is introducing a new collection that delivers the sweet flavors of three iconic Italian desserts to your nearest doughnut shop. This special release is only available for a limited time, starting July 29. Krispy Kreme is always keeping us on our toes. From innovative flavors, hard-to-skip deals, holiday celebrations, and collaborations we didn't know we needed, the doughnut brand consistently provides us with fun, new reasons to visit our local shop. And its latest drop? Well, that might be its most tempting one yet. Inspired by some of the world's most beloved desserts, Krispy Kreme's three new doughnut flavors have us skipping the TSA lanes to head right to the drive-thruand to that, we'll say salute! Introducing Krispy Kreme's Passport to Italy Doughnuts Krispy Kreme You will really be living la dolce vitathe sweet lifewhen you visit your neighborhood Krispy Kreme to pick up its new, limited-edition flavors inspired by three iconic Italian desserts. The new "Passport to Italy" collection includes a Cannoli Inspired Doughnut, a Limone Delight Doughnut, and a Tiramisu Doughnut. Just like a balmy summer vacation in Italythese doughnuts are only available for a limited time, starting July 29. The first doughnut in the collection is the Cannoli Inspired Doughnut, which features an unglazed ring doughnut half-dipped in chocolate icing and cookie crunch, dusted with powdered coating, and topped with a buttercream dollop that mimics the cream at the center of a cannoli. All doughnuts are great with coffee, but we have a feeling this one will take your morning espresso to the next level. Next up is Limone Delight Doughnut. This citrusy variety brings the flavors of the Amalfi Coast stateside, featuring an unglazed shell filled with a lemon delight creme, dipped in a zesty lemon-flavored icing, and topped with candied lemon. If lemon desserts are your thing, this doughnut is sure to be a new favorite. Krispy Kreme And finally, we can't talk about Italian desserts without mentioning tiramisu. The Tiramisu Inspired Doughnut features an unglazed shell filled with tiramisu-flavored creme, topped with buttercream, and dusted with cocoa powder. It's the perfect afternoon refresher, which is so fitting, since tiramisu means "pick me up" in Italian. It's true, we're all still dreaming about a European summer vacation, but until then, we have a feeling these treats will hold us over just fine. Read the original article on ALLRECIPES Delpixart/Istockphoto Explore Havana in a Vintage Cuban Car A Must for Travelers Cuba is a country of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, but what fascinates me most are its classic cars. These iconic vehicles, still cruising the streets today, make Cuba feel like a living car museum. If you want to truly experience the islands charm, theres no better way than riding through its streets in a vintage Cuban car. thedesigntourist.com Why Does Cuba Have So Many Vintage Cars Before the Cuban Revolution in 1959, Cuba had one of the highest rates of car ownership in Latin America. The country was economically tied to the United States, and American cars from brands like Chevrolet, Ford, Buick, and Dodge were imported in large numbers during the 1940s and 1950s. A thriving upper and middle class in pre-revolutionary Cuba fueled demand for stylish and luxurious Cuba vintage cars, which were seen as status symbols. However, after the revolution, Cubas ties with the U.S. were severed, leading to the U.S. embargo on Cuba in 1960. This halted the import of American goods, including cars and car parts. The Cuban government also restricted new car ownership, allowing only government entities or a few select individuals to obtain new vehicles. With no access to new American cars or parts, Cubans developed incredible ingenuity to keep their existing cars running. They adapted parts from Russian cars, such as Ladas and Moskvitches, and even fabricated homemade components. Many classic cars were also converted to run on diesel engines, making them more fuel-efficient and easier to maintain. Owners take great pride in customizing their cars, often painting them in bright, eye-catching colors. thedesigntourist.com Meet the Mechanics Who Keep These Cars Running One of my biggest curiosities was learning how Cubans keep these 20th-century cars running in the 21st century. I met up with master mechanic Julio Alvarez, who owns and operates a garage filled with 15 Chevrolet cars from 1950 to 1970. thedesigntourist.com Lola, The Pink Chevrolet The star of his collection is Lola, a pink and white 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. Lola was the first private taxi in operation in Havana, the forerunner to NostalgiCar, one of the most famous Cuba classic car hire companies today. thedesigntourist.com Daniel, Meg, and Benny Each of Julios cars has a nameDaniel, Meg, and Benny, which was undergoing restoration during my visit. Restoring a vintage Cuban car takes an average of nine months, often starting from a bare shell. Julio grew up under Fidel Castros communist rule, which restricted car ownership to create a society where everyone had equal material goods. He calls his latest project, the restoration of a 1951 Chevrolet, his Frankenstein. thedesigntourist.com Positive Energy for Cubans When Julio and his wife first opened their private taxi company in Havana, the Cuban government discouraged riders, claiming the cars werent safe. To make their business more inviting to tourists, they switched their blue car to a pink taxi named Lola. Today, a magazine cover featuring Julios wife in Lola sits proudly in his garage with the headline: Positive Energy for Cubans. Before I left Julios garage, he invited me to sit inside his favorite car, a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air with red and white interiors. The large steering wheel, hand-shift gears on the column, and vintage dashboard felt foreign, like Id need to retrain my muscle memory to drive it. Julio showed me the Cuban way to drive, with one elbow resting on the window sill and one hand on the steering wheel. thedesigntourist.com Famous Visitors Who Have Ridden in Cuban Vintage Cars In 2015, the United States reopened its embassy in Havana after being closed since 1961. President Barack Obama visited for the opening ceremonies and wanted to ride in one of NostalgiCars vintage autos, but his security team wouldnt allow it. However, First Lady Michelle Obama did ride in one of Julios cars and later sent a personal note to his wife: Thank you for your warm welcome to Cuba and for all you did to make my familys visit possible. It was truly an honor to have the opportunity to experience the culture and traditions of the Cuban people firsthand. Sincerely, Michelle Obama. Other dignitaries, including U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, also took rides in Julios beautifully restored Cuba vintage cars. thedesigntourist.com 5 Reasons to Explore Cuba in a Vintage Cuban Car 1. Step Into a Living Museum Riding in a Cuban car is like stepping back in time. These cars have been lovingly maintained for decades, making the streets of Cuba feel like an open-air museum. Unlike static displays, these vehicles are still in daily use, allowing you to ride in a piece of history. thedesigntourist.com 2. The Best Way to See Havana and Beyond A Cuba old car tour is the best way to experience Havanas highlights. Cruise down the Malecon, explore Old Havanas colonial streets, or ride to Miramar and Vedado in style. You can even take a classic car to Hemingways Cuba for an unforgettable road trip. Ryan Hamilton 3. Enjoy a Stylish and Comfortable Ride Unlike modern taxis or rental cars, a vintage Cuban car offers a ride filled with character and nostalgia. Many have been restored with vibrant paint jobs, plush seats, and convertible tops, making for a stylish and comfortable journey. thedesigntourist.com 4. Connect with Local Drivers and Their Stories Taking a ride in a Cuban car is more than just transportationits a cultural experience. Many drivers share personal stories and historical insights, making your trip even more meaningful. These cars often belong to families who have preserved them for generations. thedesigntourist.com 5. Capture Stunning Travel Photos Cubas vintage cars are incredibly photogenic. Whether parked along Havanas colorful streets or cruising the countryside, they create perfect backdrops for stunning travel photography. thedesigntourist.com How to Experience a Vintage Car Ride in Cuba Classic Cuban Car Tour with NostalgiCar If you want to rent a classic Cuban car, NostalgiCar is a great choice. This family-run business restores and maintains beautifully preserved 1950s American cars, giving you the chance to ride through Havana in style. You can book a private tour, an airport transfer, or even a car for a special event. A Hassle-Free, Private Cuba Experience with AC Journeys While vintage car tours are a must in Cuba, I wanted a more seamless and immersive experience, which is why I chose a private guided tour with AC Journeys. They made my trip incredibly smooth and memorable by handling all the details, so I could just enjoy the ride and soak in the culture. They specialize in personally curated, private travel experiences, offering exclusive access to hidden spots and local stories that most travelers dont get to see. Every part of my trip felt well-planned, thoughtful, and truly unique. If you want a stress-free way to experience Cuba, where you can focus on the culture, history, and breathtaking sights while someone else handles the logistics, AC Journeys is a great option. MaboHH/Istockphoto Final Thoughts Riding in a vintage Cuban car was one of the most unforgettable parts of my trip. It wasnt just about getting around, it felt like stepping into a piece of Cubas history, where every car has a story and every ride is filled with character. Cruising through Havana with the wind in my hair, passing colorful streets and locals waving as I passed, made me appreciate just how much these cars mean to the people who own and maintain them. If youre visiting Cuba, dont just admire these cars from the sidewalk, get in, go for a ride, and experience it for yourself. Its something you wont forget. Frequently Asked Questions about Vintage Cuban Cars What classic cars are in Cuba? Cuba is home to thousands of 1950s American cars like Chevrolet Bel Airs, Ford Fairlanes, Buicks, and Oldsmobiles, alongside Soviet-era Ladas and Moskviches from the Cold War era. What car is famous in Cuba? The 195557 Chevrolet Bel Air is the most iconic car in Cuba, often seen as a bright-colored convertible cruising through Havana. Can you rent a vintage car in Cuba? Yes, but vintage cars are typically available as chauffeured tours rather than self-drive rentals. You can book a classic car ride in Havana through services like Nostalgicar. What importance do classic cars have in Cuban culture? Classic cars symbolize Cuban resilience, ingenuity, and national identity, as locals have kept them running for decades despite limited access to new vehicles. Why are Cuban cars so old? Due to the U.S. embargo since 1960 and strict government restrictions, Cubans have had to maintain and repair old cars instead of importing new ones. What is Cuba best known for? Cuba is famous for its classic cars, cigars, rum, music, beaches, and rich cultural history, making it a unique and vibrant travel destination. Is it a good idea to rent a car in Cuba? Its possible, but not always recommended due to poor road conditions, fuel shortages, and high rental costs. Most travelers prefer taxis, buses, or guided classic car tours. Which city in Cuba has old cars? Havana has the largest concentration of classic cars, especially around Parque Central, Old Havana, and the Malecon, though youll find them in cities like Trinidad, Santiago de Cuba, and Cienfuegos as well. Related: 25 Best Pensacola Florida Attractions You Cant Miss Related: Cubas Emerging Creative Class Offers a New Lens to Explore Like MediaFeeds content? Be sure to follow us. This article originally appeared on Thedesigntourist.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org MICHAEL TRAN/AFP via Getty Brad Pitt and Logan Lerman on Aug. 1, 2022 NEED TO KNOW Logan Lerman said in an Interview magazine conversation that his two-time costar Brad Pitt is "the greatest" "Its nice when you meet people you admire and they are not fussy and particular. They just want to make something great," he said of Pitt Lerman, who is promoting his new movie Oh, Hi!, costarred with Pitt in 2014's Fury and 2022's Bullet Train Logan Lerman struck up a friendship with Brad Pitt, which is not something he can say for all of his costars. The actor, 33, spoke about his time working with Pitt, 61, in the 2014 World War II movie Fury as he spoke with Martin Short for a piece in Interview magazine published Monday, July 28 as Lerman promoted his new movie Oh, Hi! "Brads the greatest," Lerman said, after Short, 75, asked how he liked working with Pitt. "I met Brad when I was a little kid as a fan at a restaurant. He was in full leather pants, leather button-up, just the coolest-looking person Id ever seen in my life. Then we worked together and became friends." He continued, "Its nice when you meet people you admire and they are not fussy and particular. They just want to make something great." "Ive worked with some people who shall remain nameless that arent like that," Lerman added, to which Short jested, "Oh, come on. Name them." "I will not, but wouldnt it be fun if I just started bashing all the obnoxious people Ive worked with?" Lerman joked. "But Brad was so giving." Giles Keyte/Columbia/Kobal/Shutterstock Logan Lerman and Brad Pitt in 2014's Fury Lerman and Pitt costarred with Shia LaBeouf, Michael Pena, Jon Bernthal and Jason Isaacs in Fury, a war drama that follows American soldiers who operate a tank in Germany in the weeks before Nazi Germany surrendered and ended the European theatre of World War II. When Pitt and Lerman spoke with PEOPLE at the movie's premiere back in 2014, Lerman said the actors all went through a boot camp operated by Navy SEALs to prepare them for the shoot and he was tasked with waking Pitt up each day for his turn watching over the group. It was weird. How do you wake up a sleeping beauty? It took a while to figure it out," Lerman said at the time, when asked how he went about waking Pitt up. "You just kiss him gently and you rock him and you hold him and you say, Hey, sweetie. I told you," he added. Tenderness. Be kind. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Michael Loccisano/Getty Logan Lerman on June 13, 2025 Lerman and Pitt worked together again in Pitt's 2022 action movie Bullet Train, which followed a group of assassins who board a train in Tokyo intent on walking away with a valuable briefcase full of cash. "He's the best. He really is the best, and I've loved every second of it," Lerman told The Hollywood Reporter of working with Pitt a second time in August 2022. "Any time I get to hang out with him is fun." Lerman's new movie Oh, Hi! is in theaters now. Read the original article on People LAS VEGAS (AP) Setting the stage for what is expected to be a highly competitive fight for Nevada governor, Democratic Attorney General Aaron Ford announced Monday he will challenge Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo next year. Ford represents the highest-profile Democrat to enter the still-emerging contest in a battleground state carried by President Donald Trump in 2024. In the election, Trump made gains among younger voters, voters without a college degree and Black and Hispanic men. Nevadans are suffering in an economy that is rigged against those trying their hardest to stay afloat, Ford said in a statement. "I will work to lower the crushing cost of housing and prescription drugs, strengthen our public schools and ensure every community in Nevada is safe. The Better Nevada PAC which supports Lombardo called Ford a radical who has pushed a dangerous woke agenda on Nevada families. Even with the primary election nearly a year away, the race is widely seen as a toss-up, in part because Nevada is narrowly divided between Democrats and Republicans. As in many parts of the country, residents continue to be stressed by the cost of living and a lack of affordable housing. The race will unfold during an unsettled time nationally, with Democrats still trying to recast their brand after 2024 losses in Congress and the White House. Meanwhile, recent polling found only about one-quarter of U.S. adults say that President Donald Trumps policies have helped them since he took office. The poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found underwhelming marks for the president on key issues, including the economy, immigration, government spending and health care. Lombardo, who is expected to run for reelection, would come to the race with the advantages of incumbency. Not surprisingly in a swing state, he has sought to fashion a generally middle-ground Republican reputation at a time when Americans are deeply divided by partisan politics. Last month, Lombardo unexpectedly vetoed a bill that would have required voters to show a photo ID at the polls a conservative priority across the country and something that has been on Lombardo's legislative wish list. The bill came together as a compromise between the governor and the top Democrat in the state Assembly, who wanted to add more drop boxes for mail ballots in the days leading up to an election. In his veto message, Lombardo said he wholeheartedly supports voter ID laws but felt the final version fell short on addressing his concerns about ballots cast by mail, because such ballots could still be accepted solely on the basis of a signature match under the bill. If elected, Ford would be Nevada's first Black governor. University of Nevada, Las Vegas, political scientist David Damore said Democrats have lost ground in the state. But there is a path for Ford if the party can make the election a referendum on the Trump economy including cuts for Medicaid and green energy programs and declining Las Vegas tourism while avoiding identity politics issues that have cost Democrats with voters. A caveat is there is no U.S. Senate race in 2026, which typically injects lots of Democratic resources into the state, he added in an email. Manchester Uniteds new signing Bryan Mbeumo has revealed the player he is looking forward to playing alongside with the most at Old Trafford. Cameroon winger Mbeumo, who scored 20 goals and provided seven assists for Brentford in the Premier League last season, signed a five-year contract last week to become Uniteds third summer signing. He will now link up with a host of international stars as they hope to improve on last seasons league position. When asked on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast who he was most looking forward to playing alongside, Mbeumo said: Of course, Bruno (Fernandes). Of course, yeah. Bryan Mbeumo joined United on a five-year deal (PA Wire) Everyone sees in the past years. He can shoot, he can cross, he can do crazy ball. Yeah, for a striker, you just enjoy that. Mbeumo is hoping to nurture a chemistry on and off the training pitch with Uniteds Portuguese talisman before the club launch the 2025-26 campaign at home against Arsenal on August 17. I think its a little bit of everything. You earn experience from everyone. So its always good to speak to someone like this, Mbeumo said. But at the end, I think on the pitch, when youre smart like he is, I think you dont even need to think a lot. You just need to make the run and hes going to play you in the right space every time. But of course, you can have a little discussion to make him know how I prefer the balls and how Im feeling the best to have the ball. The wait is over. pic.twitter.com/hPQhyobOrB Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 21, 2025 But at a certain point, there is only one way, even if its not the one you like, you have to do the run and hes going to put the ball in a good position. Mbeumos arrival at Old Trafford follows the signings of Wolves forward Matheus Cunha and Paraguay left-back Diego Leon, from Cerro Porteno. United have recently been linked with Ollie Watkins RB Leipzigs Benjamin Sesko is also a reported target and Mbeumo described his former Brentford team-mate as the complete striker. Mbeumo said of Watkins: I think hes really complete. Hes like a complete striker. He can do a lot of things. He can drop with the set or going in behind. And I think this is really good for me or for a winger because you can use his space to fit in there. And he can combine as well. So, I think its really good. (Reuters) -Building materials maker CRH said on Tuesday it has agreed to acquire Eco Material Technologies, a supplier of supplementary cementitious materials, for $2.1 billion to expand its presence in North America. Dublin, Ireland-based CRH operates through two regional divisions Americas and International, of which the Americas business brings in 65% of revenues as per its latest annual filing, and includes the production of aggregates, cement, ready-mixed concrete and asphalt used in construction. As traditional cement production is responsible for around 8% of global CO2 emissions, the industry has been making the switch to low-carbon alternatives, through investments, joint ventures and mergers. With the takeover of the Utah-based near-zero carbon cement producer Eco Material, CRH also acquires its national network of fresh and harvested fly ash, pozzolans, synthetic gypsum and green cement operations. "This transaction secures the long-term supply of critical materials for future growth and puts CRH at the forefront of the transition to next generation cement and concrete," CRH chief executive Jim Mintern said. CRH, which has its presence across 28 countries, said it plans to fund the deal, expected to close in 2025, with cash on hand. The business will operate as Eco Material Technologies, a CRH Company. (Reporting by Aatreyee Dasgupta in Bengaluru; Editing by Shailesh Kuber) A Polish-Colombian couple, Magdalena Kujawinska and Heinner Valenzuela, travelled to Copenhagen to marry, circumventing complex bureaucracy at home in Poland. Living in Krakow, the couple had been engaged for over three years but faced significant hurdles. "We realised that its not that easy to get married in Poland," the 30-year-old Ms Kujawinska said, citing the requirement for a certificate proving they were not already married. A certificate, needed from Colombia, presented an insurmountable challenge due to its three-month validity. "We tried to get it from Colombia, but its only valid for three months, and it couldnt get to Poland from Colombia in three months. It was just impossible for us," she added. Learning about Denmark's relaxed marriage laws from a colleague, Ms Kujawinska and her fiance engaged an online wedding planner. The process proved remarkably swift, with approval granted in just four days. "And in four days, we had the decision that the marriage could be done here," a smiling Ms Kujawinska recounted as they awaited their 10-minute ceremony at Copenhagen's 19th-century City Hall. Copenhagen attracts couples from around the world Newlyweds Magdalena Kujawinska, right, from Poland and Heinner Valenzuela from Colombia pose for photos at the Copenhagen City Hall in Copenhagen, Denmark (Associated Press/James Brooks) Couples who don't live in Denmark, both mixed- and same-sex, are increasingly getting married in the Scandinavian country prompting some to dub Copenhagen the Las Vegas of Europe. The head of the marriage office at Copenhagen City Hall, Anita Okkels Birk Thomsen, said that about 8,000 wedding ceremonies were performed there last year. Of those, some 5,400 of them were for couples in which neither partner was a Danish resident. Thats almost double what we saw five years ago, she said. They come from all over the world. City wants to ensure room for locals But the city sees a downside to that: demand for ceremonies at City Hall now far exceeds the number of slots available. Mia Nyegaard, the Copenhagen official in charge of culture and leisure, said in a statement to The Associated Press that the significant rise in the number of foreign couples getting married in the capital poses challenges for Copenhagen-based couples wishing to get married. Local authorities plan to take action. Nyegaard said about 40 percent of wedding slots available at City Hall will be reserved for Copenhagen residents starting from the end of October. While booking a slot there is the most obvious way to get married in the city, arranging a ceremony with a private registrar is also an option, and that won't be affected. Copenhagen lawmakers will look after the summer break at what else they can do to relieve overall pressure on wedding capacity in the city. Liberal laws People gather in front of the Copenhagen City Hall in Copenhagen, Denmark (Associated Press) Denmark's marriage laws are liberal in several ways. In 1989, the country became the world's first to allow the registration of same-sex civil unions. The legalisation of same-sex marriage followed in 2012. For unions of all kinds, Denmark unlike many other European countries doesn't require a birth certificate or proof of single status to obtain a certificate that grants the right to get married in Denmark within four months. Officials might, in cases where divorce papers don't show clearly that a divorce has been finalised, ask for a civil status certificate. Applications to Denmark's agency of family law cost 2,100 kroner ($326), and couples are issued with a certificate within five working days if they satisfy the requirements. Non-resident couples can travel to Denmark and get married with just a valid passport and, if required, a tourist visa. We get that thing like, Are you sure we do not need a birth certificate? And we go, Yes, said Rasmus Clarck Srensen, director of Getting Married in Denmark. Clarck Srensen, a Dane, began the wedding planning business with his British wife back in 2014. In the last 20, 30 years, people just meet more across borders," he said. Marriage rules are often made for two people of the same country getting married. They kind of piled on patches onto marriage law, and a lot of people get trapped in those patches, he added. His online companys Complete Service package, priced at 875 euros ($1,014), includes help gathering all the necessary documents, processing the certificate application and organising the date of the ceremony. The business says it helped over 2,600 couples last year. Copenhagen, easily Denmark's biggest city with the country's best transport links, is the most popular location and so far appears to be the only one struggling with demand. Any changes to the city's rules will come too late to bother newlyweds Kujawinska and Valenzuela, who are now busy planning a celebration in Poland with family and friends. It means a lot for us because weve been waiting a lot for this, Kujawinska said. Were really happy. Russia Airline Cyberattack Russias flagship state-owned carrier, Aeroflot, was hit by a significant cyberattack on Monday, leading to a mass outage of its computer systems and forcing the cancellation of over 100 flights, with many others delayed. The disruption caused widespread chaos at Moscows Sheremetyevo airport, Aeroflots base, where images shared on social media depicted hundreds of delayed passengers. The outage also impacted flights operated by Aeroflots subsidiaries, Rossiya and Pobeda. While primarily affecting domestic routes, the cyberattack also led to cancellations for some international flights to Belarus, Armenia, and Uzbekistan. Initially, Aeroflot issued a statement warning passengers of "unspecified difficulties" with its information technology system. However, Russias Prosecutors Office later confirmed the incident was a cyberattack and announced a criminal investigation had been launched. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described reports of the attack as "quite alarming," adding that "the hacker threat is a threat that remains for all large companies providing services to the general public." Ukrainian hacker group Silent Crow and Belarusian hacker activist group the Belarus Cyber-Partisans, which opposes the rule of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, both claimed responsibility for the assault. Silent Crow asserted via Telegram that it had maintained access to Aeroflots corporate network for a year, during which time it copied customer and internal data, including audio recordings of phone calls, employee surveillance data, and other intercepted communications. The group claimed that these resources are now "inaccessible or destroyed and restoring them will possibly require tens of millions of dollars. The damage is strategic." The channel also shared screenshots purporting to show Aeroflots internal IT systems, insinuating that seized data could be released soon. "The personal data of all Russians who have ever flown with Aeroflot have now also gone on a trip albeit without luggage and to the same destination," it stated. These claims could not be independently verified. Ukrainian hacker group Silent Crow and Belarusian hacker activist group the Belarus Cyber-Partisans, which opposes the rule of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, both claimed responsibility for the assault. (AFP/Getty) The Belarus Cyber-Partisans told The Associated Press they had hoped to "deliver a crushing blow." The group has a history of claiming responsibility for cyberattacks, including an alleged infiltration of Belaruss main KGB security agency in April 2024. Group coordinator Yuliana Shametavets described the Aeroflot incident as "a very large-scale attack and one of the most painful in terms of consequences," adding that the group had prepared for several months, exploiting various vulnerabilities to penetrate the airlines network. Belarus is a close ally of Russia, with President Lukashenko having allowed Russia to use his countrys territory for the full-scale invasion of Ukraine and for the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons. The incident follows a summer of repeated mass delays at Russian airports, often due to Ukrainian drone attacks prompting flight groundings over safety concerns. By Karen Freifeld (Reuters) -Cadence Design agreed to plead guilty and pay more than $140 million to resolve U.S. charges for selling its chip design products to a Chinese military university believed to be involved in simulating nuclear explosions, the Justice Department said on Monday. Cadence is accused of violating export controls by illegally selling chip design software and hardware to front companies representing China's National University of Defense Technology. NUDT's supercomputers are thought to support nuclear explosive simulation and military simulation activities, according to U.S. Commerce Department notices restricting shipments to the university. San Jose, California-based Cadence noted a charge related to the legal proceedings in its quarterly results, also released on Monday. In a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the company said it was "pleased" to reach settlements with the Justice and Commerce departments. Cadence shares rose 6.5% after it posted the news and its quarterly results. The deal, which comes as the U.S. and China meet for new trade talks, shows the U.S. is still willing to enforce U.S. export controls on China, even as it relaxes some of the restrictions as part of negotiations. NUDT was put on the Commerce Department's restricted trade list in 2015 to keep it from using U.S. technology to power its supercomputers, according to department postings. Other aliases and locations were added to the university's listing in 2019 and 2022, including Hunan Guofang Keji University, Central South CAD Center and CSCC. Cadence and its subsidiary Cadence China exported electronic design automation tools at least 56 times to CSCC between 2015 and 2020, with certain Cadence China employees facilitating business with NUDT while knowing CSCC was an alias for the restricted university, court papers said. They also transferred EDA tools to Phytium Technology Co, a semiconductor company closely associated with NUDT, until 2021, without obtaining required licenses, according to court papers. NUDT and Phytium did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Cadence agreed to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit export control violations. It is expected to be on probation for three years, meaning it cannot commit any further violations and has to fulfill its obligations under the plea agreement. The $140 million covers criminal penalties, forfeiture and a civil penalty imposed by the Commerce department. Cadence, whose customers include major semiconductor manufacturers and companies such as Nvidia and Qualcomm, is known for its electronic computer-aided design software. Cadence was run for over a decade by Lip-Bu Tan, a Malaysian-born Chinese American business executive appointed chief executive of Intel Corp in March. Tan was CEO of Cadence from 2008 through December 2021, which includes the period the sales took place, and was executive chairman until May 2023. A spokesman for Lip-Bu Tan did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The U.S. investigation into Cadence, which began more than four years ago, involved historical sales by Cadence to customers in China, according to a company filing. Cadence received a subpoena from the U.S. Commerce Department in February 2021, demanding records related to certain customers in China. A related November 2023 subpoena followed from the Justice Department over the company's business activity in China. Entities are placed on the restricted trade list, formally known as the Entity List, for activities deemed contrary to U.S. national security or foreign policy interests. U.S. companies are not allowed to ship goods and technology to them without licenses from the Commerce Department, which are generally denied. Electronic design automation tools are key to designing chips and verifying that they are bug-free. NUDT has developed chips to power university supercomputers, including Tianhe-2, once touted as the world's best supercomputer, which the U.S. believes has been used in research on or the development of nuclear explosive devices. Twelve percent of Cadence's revenue came from China last year, down from 17% in 2023, amid regulatory developments and geopolitical tensions. (Reporting by Karen Freifeld; additional reporting by Eduardo BaptistaEditing by Chris Sanders, Rod Nickel and Nia Williams) By Michelle Nichols and Olivia Le Poidevin UNITED NATIONS/GENEVA (Reuters) -A worst-case scenario of famine is unfolding in Gaza and immediate action is needed to end fighting and allow unimpeded aid access, a global hunger monitor warned on Tuesday, saying failure to act now would result in widespread death. Its alert coincided with a statement from Gaza health authorities saying Israel's military campaign had now killed more than 60,000 Palestinians. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) raised the prospect that the manmade starvation crisis could be formally classified as a famine, in the hope that this might raise the pressure on Israel to let far more food deliveries in. "Mounting evidence shows that widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths," the IPC said. It added that it would quickly carry out the formal analysis that could allow it to classify Gaza as "in famine". But it is unclear whether any such announcement would help to remove the main obstacle to food reaching Gaza's 2.1 million people: Israel's refusal to allow more than a trickle of trucks in. NOT ENOUGH FOOD GETTING INTO GAZA "We're getting about approximately 50% of what we're requesting into Gaza since these humanitarian pauses started on Sunday," Ross Smith of the World Food Programme told reporters in Geneva by video. The WFP says almost 470,000 people are enduring famine-like conditions, with 90,000 women and children in need of specialist nutrition. Gaza's health ministry says at least 147 people have died of hunger including 88 children, most in the last few weeks. Images of emaciated children have shocked the world and fuelled international criticism of Israel, prompting it at the weekend to announce daily humanitarian pauses to fighting in three areas of Gaza and new safe corridors for aid convoys. Yet the supply remains far short of what aid agencies say is the bare minimum required. The IPC alert said this meant 62,000 metric tons of staple food a month, but that according to the Israeli aid coordination agency COGAT, only 19,900 tons entered in May and 37,800 in June. Smith said the WFP lacked the stocks or permissions to reopen the bakeries and community kitchens that had been a lifeline before a total Israeli blockade began in May. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday that that the situation in Gaza was "tough" but that there were lies about starvation. He said 5,000 aid trucks had entered Gaza in the last two months, and that Israel would assist those wanting to conduct airdrops - a delivery method that aid groups say is ineffective and tokenistic. Israel has consistently said its actions are justified as self-defence. It says the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which ruled Gaza, is to blame for refusing to release hostages and surrender, and for operating in civilian areas, which Hamas denies. IPC CALLS FOR END TO CATASTROPHIC SUFFERING The IPC alert said that "immediate action must be taken to end the hostilities and allow unimpeded, large-scale, life-saving humanitarian response. "This is the only path to stopping further deaths and catastrophic human suffering." The IPC partners with governments, international aid groups and U.N. agencies and assesses the extent of hunger suffered by a population. Its famine classification requires at least 20% of people to be suffering extreme food shortages, with one in three children acutely malnourished and two people out of every 10,000 dying every day from starvation or malnutrition and disease. The IPC's latest data indicated that formal famine thresholds have already been reached for food consumption in most of Gaza, and for acute malnutrition in Gaza City. But David Miliband, head of the International Rescue Committee aid group, said that "formal famine declarations always lag reality". "By the time that famine was declared in Somalia in 2011, 250,000 people - half of them children under 5 - had already died of hunger," he said in a statement. "By the time famine is declared, it will already be too late." War has raged in Gaza between Israel and Hamas militants for 22 months. After an 11-week Israeli blockade, limited U.N.-led aid operations resumed on May 19 and a week later the obscure new U.S.-based Gaza Humanitarian Foundation - backed by Israel and the United States - began distributing food aid. CRITICISM OF ISRAELI-BACKED GHF AID GROUP The rival aid efforts have sparked a war of words - pitting Israel, the U.S. and the GHF against the U.N., international aid groups and dozens of governments from around the world. Israel and the U.S. accuse Hamas of stealing aid - which the militants deny - and the U.N. of failing to prevent it. The U.N. says it has not seen evidence of Hamas diverting much aid. The IPC said 88% of Gaza was now under evacuation orders or within militarised areas, and was critical of GHF efforts. It said most of the GHF food items "require water and fuel to cook, which are largely unavailable". The IPC's Famine Review Committee said: "Our analysis of the food packages supplied by the GHF shows that their distribution plan would lead to mass starvation." The GHF was not immediately available for comment. It has previously said it has so far distributed more than 96 million meals. Jolien Veldwijk, CARE Palestine Country Director, said that Palestinians were suffering a "manmade famine, caused by Israels siege and the deliberate obstruction of aid, fuelled by the inaction of world leaders". "The haunting images of emaciated children are evidence of a failure of humanity to act." The war in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas killed 1,200 people in southern Israel and took some 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. (Reporting by Michelle Nichols and Olivia Le Poidevin; additional reporting by Lena Masri in London; writing by Michelle Nichols; Editing by Don Durfee and Kevin Liffey) (Reuters) -Additional U.S. tariffs on Brazil would lead to a steeper slowdown in activity than currently projected for the South American country's economy, a preliminary assessment by the International Monetary Fund showed. Some tariffs - for example those on steel and aluminum products - were already affecting the Brazilian economy and had been taken into account for the Fund's latest forecast, said Petya Koeva-Brooks, Deputy Director at the IMF Research Department. "Now, when it comes to the broader question of the impact of further tariffs that had been put forward, our preliminary assessment is that that would lead to a steeper slowdown in activity than we currently are projecting," said Koeva-Brooks. The IMF sees Brazil's economy growing 2.3% in 2025 from a 3.4% expansion last year. Products that would be subject to these additional tariffs are expected to make up around 1.1-1.4 percentage points of GDP, she added, speaking during a news briefing at the launch of the update to the Fund's World Economic Outlook published on Tuesday. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal and Karin Strohecker, editing by Rodrigo Campos) By Marco Aquino LIMA (Reuters) -Peru is considering whether to give the green light to a wave of new mining projects worth a combined $6 billion in investments, President Dina Boluarte said on Monday, as her deeply unpopular government seeks to boost revenues from the industry. The government is evaluating the authorization of 134 exploration and exploitation projects, Boluarte said in a traditional Independence Day address to Congress. Officials in Peru, the world's third-biggest copper producer, are in talks with informal miners who launched protests in late June, blocking a transport corridor used by major miners including MMG and Glencore. Miners have paused that protest and corridor blockade during negotiations over a potential new law for the sector. Among informal miners, tensions escalated after over 50,000 were removed from a formalization scheme, leaving just 31,000 that the government is seeking to bring in line with regulations by year end. Boluarte said the government was working on starting a private mining fund to give small formal miners access to better financing. As she spoke, police used tear gas to disperse hundreds of protesters marching toward Congress. Some carried cardboard coffins, a reference to the dozens killed during unrest early in her term. Recent polls put Boluarte's approval ratings at between 2% and 4%, among the lowest for any world leader. In the address, the president also announced a deal with Ecuador's state oil firm Petroecuador to connect Ecuadorean oil fields to a Peruvian pipeline, allowing transport to Peru's Talara refinery. POVERTY NEAR 30% While Peru's economy has rebounded from a recession triggered by anti-government unrest, poverty levels remain near 30%. Boluarte, whose term ends in 2026, took office in late 2022 after her predecessor, Pedro Castillo, was ousted and arrested for attempting to illegally dissolve Congress. She faces an investigation over the deaths during subsequent protests, for which she denies wrongdoing. Her cabinet sparked further outrage in July by doubling her salary. "The icing on the cake is raising their salaries and colluding with those with power to keep plundering the countrys natural resources," said protester Milagros Sanchez, a public school teacher. The Andean nation has been mired in political instability, with six presidents since 2018. The next general election is scheduled for April 2026. (Reporting by Marco Aquino; Writing by Sarah Morland; Editing by Natalia Siniawski and David Gregorio) China's top legislator hails mutual trust, win-win cooperation with Hungary Xinhua) 08:45, July 29, 2025 BUDAPEST, July 28 (Xinhua) -- China's top legislator Zhao Leji hailed the mutual trust and win-win cooperation between China and Hungary during an official goodwill visit from July 24 to 28. Zhao, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, held separate meetings with Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok and Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and held talks with Speaker of the Hungarian National Assembly Laszlo Kover in Budapest during the visit. When meeting with Sulyok, Zhao conveyed President Xi Jinping's cordial greetings, noting that President Xi's successful state visit to Hungary in May 2024, which elevated China-Hungary relations to an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership for the new era, has opened up broader prospects for friendly cooperation between the two countries. China is willing to work with Hungary to be good friends with mutual respect and mutual trust, good partners with mutual benefits and win-win results, and good brothers who understand and care for each other, he said. Zhao said China will join hands with Hungary to promote in-depth alignment between the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Hungary's "Eastern Opening" strategy, complete the construction of landmark projects such as the Hungary-Serbia Railway with high quality, and encourages and supports more exchanges between the two countries and local-level in terms of culture, media and youth to promote closer people-to-people ties. Sulyok, for his part, asked Zhao to convey his sincere greetings to Xi. He said that Hungary and China have been developing bilateral relations on the basis of mutual respect, mutual trust, mutual benefit and win-win results, which is of great significance and contemporary value. The Hungarian president said that participating in BRI is of vital importance to Hungary, and the Hungary-Serbia Railway project is a model of major project cooperation between the two sides. He also voiced hope that both sides will continuously deepen cooperation in areas such as green energy, artificial intelligence, digital economy, as well as humanities, youth and education. When meeting with Orban, Zhao said that in recent years, China-Hungary relations have achieved leapfrog development and are at their best in history. China appreciates Hungary's adherence to the one-China principle and is willing to continue strengthening mutual support with the Hungarian side, Zhao said. Zhao said China welcomes more high-quality agricultural and food products from Hungary, and expects Hungary to provide policy support and security guarantees for Chinese enterprises in Hungary. As this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union (EU), Zhao said China hopes and believes that Hungary will continue to play an active role in promoting the healthy and stable development of China-EU relations. China will also work with Hungary to promote the cooperation between China and the Central and Eastern European Countries, Zhao said. Orban said that President Xi's state visit to Hungary last year was a milestone in the history of Hungary-China relations. He said the two countries' long-standing histories and cultures, both featuring independence and autonomy, serve as a solid foundation for their traditional friendship. He attributed China's rise to its own efforts, noting that to develop friendly cooperation with China is Hungary's strategic choice, which will help Hungary to upgrade technology and explore markets. During his talks with Kover, Zhao said the NPC is willing to work with the Hungarian National Assembly to advance the implementation of the outcomes of President Xi's visit last year, to contribute to the high-level and high-quality development of China-Hungary relations. The two sides should strengthen exchanges at all levels of the legislature, and formulate, revise and approve legal documents conducive to bilateral cooperation in a timely manner, Zhao said, calling on the two sides to strengthen coordination and cooperation in multilateral forums such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union. For his part, Kover said that a growing China helps promote world peace and development and contributes to building a multipolar world, which is completely in line with Hungary's interests. The National Assembly is willing to work with the NPC to provide firm support for mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) By Corina Pons LA RODA DE ANDALUCIA, Spain (Reuters) -Spain's black olive exporters, subject to harsh tariffs since U.S. President Donald Trump's first term, are warning it will be difficult to survive an extra 15% they now face under the European Union's latest trade deal with the United States. EU goods now face import tariffs of 15% - half of Trump's threatened rate, but much more than Europeans had hoped for - after striking a trade deal with Trump on Sunday. Spain, the world's top table olive exporter, has seen its share of the U.S. black olive market plummet from 49% in 2017 to 19% in 2024 after Trump imposed tariffs of more than 30% at the request of Californian olive growers. The measures only affected black olives and don't apply to green olives, olive oil or semi-processed olives. Spanish farmers have taken steps to increase green olive sales and to diversify their markets since the tariffs were first imposed, but warn the additional increase will be hard to swallow. "It would be unviable (for black table olives)," said Eduardo Martin, secretary of Asaja, a Spanish local farmers' association in southern Seville province, a region that produces the most olives. The initial trade measures coincided with a severe drought that forced Spanish producers to cut around 400,000 work shifts for pickers out of a total of 2.5 million, according to industry estimates. Sales of Spanish black olives to the U.S. dropped by 70% in the first year. "The worst was the first year," said Gabriel Cabello, president of Andalusia's Federation of Agricultural Cooperatives in Seville province. "In the second year, we learned that this was here to stay and that we had to do things differently." To mitigate losses, Spanish exporters shifted focus to Europe and the Middle East, regions with a tradition of consuming table olives. They also ventured into Asian markets, while switching to shipping more green olives to the U.S. because they are subject to lower tariffs. Tariffs also spurred innovation, with some Spanish exporters selling black olives stuffed with salmon or cheese for the first time, which helped boost sales in Europe and Asia, Cabello said. Still, the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture estimates it has lost 239.6 million euros ($278.51 million) in black olive sales since the tariffs were introduced, nearly a third of the 707 million-euro total export value from the last harvest. WEATHERED THE STORM Among the 25 Spanish exporters active before the tariffs, only four major players remain, according to Asemesa, Spains Association of Table Olive Exporters. Agro Sevilla, one of the larger players with the financial resources to lobby the U.S. for lower rates, expanded green olive exports and managed to reduce black olive tariffs to 10% from 31%. The company successfully demonstrated that they received fewer European subsidies than the U.S. had estimated. Its U.S. sales have been gradually growing since 2023. "We cannot give up on the world's largest consumer market for black olives," said Agro Sevilla CEO Julio Roda. In a twist, Aceitunas Guadalquivir, another major Spanish olive producer, acquired Bell-Carter Foods, one of the two leading U.S. companies that had advocated for the tariffs, according to a statement issued in 2022. The company is among several Californian companies that have imported raw olives from Spain, which are exempt from the tariffs, according to Asemesa. Aceitunas Guadalquivir did not reply to a Reuters request for comment about such exports. "When California has low production, they import raw olives to finish processing them in the United States, mostly from Spain," said Asemesas Secretary General Antonio de Mora. Spain exported 6,300 tonnes of semi-processed olives in 2024 alongside 36,000 tonnes of green olives and 9,800 tonnes of black olives. The U.S. measures failed to bolster domestic growers. Imports of table olives surged by 40% in the first eight months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2017, trade data shows, with Egypt, Portugal, and Turkey increasing exports the most. Spanish exports of green olives to the U.S. grew by 18% during the same period, partially offsetting a decline in black olive exports. However, Spanish producers remain concerned about the new tariffs. "It's like adding rain to wet ground," Asaja's Martin said. ($1 = 0.8603 euros) (Reporting by Corina Pons: additional reporting by Miguel Gutierrez; Editing by Charlie Devereux and Sharon Singleton) The Trump administration is reportedly blocking Taiwan's president from stopping over in New York City, en route to a diplomatic meeting in Central America, following pressure from China. The Financial Times reported Monday that the administration has denied Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te the opportunity to stop over in New York City during a planned trip to Paraguay, Guatemala and Belize all countries that recognize Taiwan as its own independent country. However, on Monday, the office of the president in Taiwan released a statement indicating that Lai "currently has no plans to go on an overseas visit," according to Taiwan-state media. A source familiar with the matter at the State Department confirmed that no formal travel plans for President Lai have been announced. Taiwan Envoy Urges Congressional Action, Warns Of Rising China Threat After Meeting Lawmakers President Lais public engagements at home continue, as reports emerge the Trump White House barred him from a New York City layover en route to Central America. "In consideration of the ongoing rehabilitation efforts in southern Taiwan following a recent typhoon and regional developments including the United States' tariffs, the president currently has no plans to go on an overseas visit," the statement from President Lai said. According to the Financial Times, which spoke with unnamed sources said to be intimately familiar with the alleged trip, Lai's decision not to travel came after he was informed that he would not be able to stop in New York City on his way to Central America. Read On The Fox News App Lai's trip was also reportedly supposed to include a stop in Dallas, but it is unclear if the Trump administration was also planning to bar Lai from stopping there as well, according to the Financial Times. Pillsbury: Trump To Hold Tense Trade Talks With China U.S.-Taiwan solidarity has long included symbolic gestures but critics suggest that the Trump administration may be undermining that relationship in a bid to engage China on trade. The White House did not respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. However, a State Department source familiar with the matter indicated that the Trump administration continues to be committed to the government's long-standing one China policy, rooted in the Taiwan Relations Act, joint diplomatic agreements with China and longstanding pledges crafted by the government in regard to Taiwan and China. Despite being in line with longstanding government policy, the move still garnered criticism from some Asia policy experts and critics of Trump. Lyle Morris, a senior fellow on foreign policy and national security at the Asia Society's Center for China Analysis, said the "first concrete move" under Trump's second term regarding Taiwan is "a cause for concern." "The assumption is this decision was made in the context of ongoing US-China trade negotiations and a possible Trump-Xi meeting," Morris said on X. "Still, not a good sign for enduring US-Taiwan relations." News broke Monday afternoon that the Trump administration was allegedly blocking Taiwan's president from making a stop in New York City en route to a diplomatic trip to Central America. However, sources familiar with the matter have indicated no travel plans for Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te have been formally announced. "Denying President Lai a transit is a deeply concerning break with bipartisan precedent and sends a reckless signal to Beijing that our partnership with Taiwan is on the negotiating table," added Democrat Sen. Andy Kim, D-N.J., in a post on X following the news about President Lai's alleged travel. "American leadership is now seen as deeply unreliable, with Trumps fits and starts with Ukraine, NATO allies, and other key partners. I urge President Trump to reverse course and do what presidents of both parties have done and allow a transit, and ask my colleagues in Congress to join me in that call." News of the Trump administration's decision to prohibit the Taiwanese president from stopping in New York City comes as the president is reportedly feeling out a potential trip to Beijing himself, alongside major U.S. CEOs. Nothing so far has been set in stone regarding Trump's trip, however. Original article source: Trump's reported snub of Taiwan president spurs concerns over deference to China Mexicos drug cartels are so tenacious, so powerful, that under intense pressure, they forge diamonds rather than crumble. Amid years of bloody turf wars, new tariffs aimed at hitting the global narcotics market and thousands more combat troops at the border, cartels are feeling the pressure. The result? Two of the most notorious cartels, Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation, have begrudgingly decided to unite and conquer in an unprecedented alliance. This seismic shift in global organized crime demands that the U.S. urgently rethink its approach. Because this super-cartel wont just be a criminal syndicate trafficking migrants and drugs: It will operate more like a rogue state. Separately, cartels were already responsible for more than 30,000 deaths annually. Together, they now command fentanyl supply chains, digital surveillance networks and a loyal, militarized workforce across more than 100 countries. A union dramatically escalates their capacity for violence, trafficking and political influence. Yet U.S. policy continues to treat cartels like street gangs. President Trumps recent move to designate them as terrorist organizations made headlines, as did his talk of military action. But threats wont solve this crisis. Trump must take the cartels and their insidious grip on power seriously. Weve watched Breaking Bad; theres no neat ending to the story. Heavy-handed U.S. military incursions risk triggering exactly what cartels thrive on: chaos. We know from 2019s failed attempt to capture El Chapos son that when provoked, cartels roll out armored vehicles, rocket launchers, grenades and machine guns, taking hostages, triggering riots and paralyzing entire cities within hours. And the wider War on Drugs has been an abject failure. It triggered a 900 percent increase in cartel activity, while annual forced disappearances in Mexico soared from 18 to over 3,000 in just six years. Prioritizing combat over community, and coercion over cooperation, left a generation caught between bullets and silence. If were now calling cartels terrorists, we must also respond as we did when facing another non-state threat with global reach and paramilitary power: ISIS. ISIS wasnt defeated by drone strikes alone. It took a coalition strategy that combined financial disruption, partnerships with Syrian and Iraqi ground forces, community stabilization and the counter-radicalization of vulnerable youth. And this last point is especially relevant. Cartels are Mexicos fifth-largest employer, and theyre recruiting children and teens to sustain their brutal empires. Some estimates suggest that as many as 460,000 young Mexicans are involved in organized crime. Some are enticed by the promise of money or protection, others by fear or force. But in many cases, its simply because they have no alternatives no schools, no jobs, no future. This is a humanitarian, developmental and moral emergency. And it mirrors the same dynamics that allow violent extremist groups to flourish. In the fight against ISIS, U.S. military forces played a decisive role, but just as crucial were the grassroots actors who undermined the groups ideology from the ground up. In the U.S., community networks quietly blunted ISISs influence: rejecting its doctrine from the pulpit, fostering interfaith solidarity and helping law enforcement support at-risk youth. In Dallas, local Muslims hosted workshops for parents and teens on resisting extremist propaganda, while its imams delivered sermons condemning ISIS as un-Islamic and promoting civic engagement as the antidote to alienation. On a global level, the Muslim World League, the worlds largest Islamic non-governmental organization, publicly and repeatedly condemned ISIS as heretical, stripping the group of any claim to religious legitimacy. Under Sheikh Mohammad Al-Issas leadership, the Muslim World League convened 1,200 scholars from 139 countries to endorse the 2019 Makkah Charter a historic rejection of terrorism, extremism and sectarianism. Al-Issa even carried this message to global leaders at the European Parliament, denouncing terrorism and urging international cooperation to counter radicalization. This same lesson must be used to defeat cartel violence today. Already, a 2023 study found that the most effective way to weaken cartels is to disrupt their ability to recruit. That means investing in education, empowering local leadership and engaging faith leaders, teachers and NGOs to offer youth real alternatives to crime. We can also begin to out-organize, out-resource and out-strategize the cartels by treating them like the geopolitical actors theyve become. That means supporting and training vetted local security forces in Mexico and disrupting the cartels financial ecosystems, including through tougher enforcement on U.S.-based money laundering and weapons smuggling. It also means investing in local governance in cartel-dominated areas and expanding intelligence-sharing beyond Drug Enforcement Agency operations to a broader, civilian-led interagency framework focused on transnational threats. Theres nothing wrong with the Trump administration wanting to take the lead on tackling the cartels, but it cant succeed unilaterally, nor by treating Mexico as a failed state. Luckily, we have just reached a moment where there is goodwill to be capitalized upon. Mexico recently sent civil protection and firefighting units to Texas to support the states flood recovery efforts. That same collaborative spirit can help forge a new cross-border alliance rooted in mutual interest and shared sovereignty. No doubt, for the U.S., this is the new Cold War. But this time its being waged between networks, not nations. And the cartels are stepping from back alleys into boardrooms, switching from well-trodden cocaine routes to cyber networks. When it comes to dealing with the new super-cartels, we need a strategy built on shared intelligence, economic development, social protection and joint security. Walls and weapons can only go so far. Paulina Velasco is a dual Mexican-American citizen and political strategist with over 15 years of experience leading large-scale advocacy and communications campaigns across California. A former investment officer for the Malaysian consulate in Los Angeles, she has also served on the Azuza Human Rights Commission and the San Diego County Environmental Commission. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Believe_In_Me/Getty Images A Formula 1 display in Budapest, Hungary. Formula 1 has rapidly grown in popularity in the U.S. in recent years, but attending one of these high-profile races is still a relatively new consideration for most Americans. And as each race takes over its host city for multiple days, planning your trip can quickly turn into an overwhelming experience. As a travel advisor with experience curating Grand Prix weekends for clients, Ive developed a few strategies to make sure your F1 weekend is all green lights. Stay for the Whole Weekend (If You Can) Kirk Fisher/Getty Images The Grand Prix track and harbor in Monte Carlo, Monaco. A Formula 1 race isnt just about the race on Sundayits a multi-day event that includes practice on Friday and qualifying races on Saturday, as well as tangential events. There are several phases that add context to the big race, and can make the whole experience even more thrilling. For example, certain tracks, like those in Monaco and Singapore, are filled with narrow streets on which overtaking (when a driver passes another driver) is difficult, so a drivers qualifying performancewhich establishes their starting positionis extremely important. But if your interest is more casual or youre folding the race into a larger itinerary, you may opt for race day only. Find a Race That Resonates With Your Interests Each city that hosts a Formula One race brings its own personality to the event. Monaco, for example, is pure spectacle: mega yachts, private terraces, and top-tier people-watching. Its about the scene as much as the sport. Belgiums Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, on the other hand, winds through farmlands and forest. Its a historic track that is best experienced with a guide by your side. One great hotel in the area to stay at is the Van der Valk Hotel Verviers. An alternative option for attendees is camping for the weekend. The Dutch Grand Prix is located in Zandvoort, Netherlands, a beachside location with plenty to do in the surrounding area. No matter which F1 race you are interested in, it's easy to find one that is personally interesting, whether its for the social scene, track history, or unique traditions. Consider a Hospitality Package Kirk Fisher/Getty Images Street market in Italy filled with racing souvenirs. Many F1 teams offer hospitality packages with pit-lane walks, team meet-and-greets, and insider access. The first time my family attended Zandvoort, our chosen experience included visiting the garages, meeting some of the drivers, and a personal ride to the track. Another option is the Paddock Club, a VIP program offered by F1 that typically includes private track access, fast-track entry, and dedicated hospitality lanes. Having attended logistically challenging races like Circuit of Spa-Francorchamps in Beligum, I can tell you that personalized services like this make a big difference. Plan Your Transportation Beforehand Antoine Lapeyre/Getty Images Singapore during F1 week. Circuits outside of major cities, like Monza in Italy or Suzuka in Japan, may require private drivers or heli-charters to avoid race-day headaches. At races where the track is close to an urban centerlike Montreal, Singapore, or Zandvoortyou could feasibly hire a local driver or take public transportation to the gates. A travel advisor will take care of these logistics for you, but if youre mapping out your own trip, make sure your transportation is planned beforehand. Then youll be free to tune into the spectacle around you, the strategy of each pit stop, and the sounds of engines that define one of the worlds most thrilling traveling circuses. Kristin Chambers is a member of Travel + Leisure's A-List and specializes in destination celebrations, event travel, and family trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Chambers at kristin@daluxurytravel.com. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure Solar Return Have you seen or heard the expression another year around the Sun? Well, there's actual meaning behind the phrase, and it's personal, too! "Another year around the Sun" translates to our solar return, which is essentially our astrological birthday. It differs from our actual birthday because it may not fall on that exact date; it can vary since we're dealing with degrees of a zodiac sign. It varies because the Earth takes approximately 365.25 days to rotate around the Sun, but we approximate it at 365 days. Leap Year, though, is the main culprit for the discrepancy since it occurs every four years. When looking into your solar return, it's important to know your natal birth chart, which you can access by entering your birthday, birth year and birth location. You can then input the data to find out the information for your birthday this year. (If the degrees of the Sun signs differ, use this website for precision). Now, read on for everything to know about your solar return! What is a solar return? Simply put, a solar return is when the Sun returns to the exact degree it was at ones birth. It gives us insight into the yearly cosmic forecast we can expect, depending on the Sun and the other planets' position in the solar return chart in comparison to the natal birth chart. Comparing the two can give us a peek into whats coming. This predictive tool is beneficial for comprehending and attaining our goals from an astrological perspective. When should you expect your solar return? You can expect your solar return every year, around the time of your birthday. It could occur a day before, after or on the actual day you were born. What happens during your solar return? Astrologer Renee Watt says, "Solar returns offer a cosmic reset, encouraging us to reassess our goals and current trajectory. For some, this burst of energy can be invigorating, inspiring new dreams or expanding existing ones." "Taking initiative while these vibes are present is important, considering where you'd like to be by the time another year rolls around, and what steps are necessary to get the momentum going," Watts continues. "Popularity also tends to increase around one's solar return, making it a great time to debut projects or rally allies for your next big project." Significant shifts can occur, so looking at the Sun and the whole chart is essential. Venus could be another neighboring sign, aspecting a planet in your natal or solar return chart that could bring financial and romantic highs. Personally, my solar return chart showed that the Moon in Aries on my birthday fell in my natal seventh house of relationships and connected with the transiting commitment planet Saturn and elusive Neptune in Aries. This means I take all my partnerships seriously and want to believe in others in the upcoming year. Is there a downfall to a solar return? Watt points out that, "Solar return can come with a downside, as many tend to reflect on the past twelve months. Missed opportunities or personal disappointments can trigger birthday grief or anxiety, but it's important to find grace for yourself if tense emotions rise up." "Difficult solar transits are often followed by better ones, so if the last year felt challenging, take heart in the fact that your fortunes are likely to shift as you step into another year around the Sun!" she adds. Who recently had a solar return? Those born under the constellation Cancer (June 20 to July 22) recently had a solar return. Among the stars who had theirs include Khloe Kardashian, Selena Gomez, Kevin Hart and Tom Cruise. Others born in the beginning days of Leo season, which began on July 22, also experienced their solar return, like Jennifer Lopez, Sandra Bullock, Maya Rudolph and Daniel Radcliffe, to name a few. Who has a solar return next? Leos, born in August, will soon undergo a solar return. Kylie Jenner, Viola Davis, Meghan Markle and Barack Obama will soon experience their yearly solar return. (Pay attention to profound news that well hear from these A-listers in the upcoming weeks!) Do animals and pets have a solar return? Yes, animals and pets have solar returns, too! Every living being has a solar return. It might be hard to find the exact time or day of birth if your pet is adopted or fostered. However, they have one. Is every solar return the same? No, not every solar return is the same. Transits come and go in the sky. The Moon changes signs every 2.5 days, Mercury every 3 to 4 weeks and Venus flirts in a sign for nearly a month. Plus, retrogrades happen. The solar return is different every year, so looking at it is essential to set the tone and vibe for the months ahead. Our focus evolves, and we can feel the modifications. After all, we are constantly growing as people, which is why it makes sense for our yearly visions to do so as well. Read the original article on People Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers a statement inside No. 10 Downing Street on the day the cabinet was recalled to discuss the situation in Gaza, in London, Tuesday, July 29, 2025. (Toby Melville, Pool Photo via AP) LONDON (AP) The U.K. will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza, allows the U.N. to bring in aid and takes other steps toward long-term peace, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Tuesday. Starmer, who is under mounting domestic pressure over the issue as scenes of hunger in Gaza horrify many Britons, convened a rare summertime Cabinet meeting to discuss the situation there. It came after he discussed the crisis with President Donald Trump during a meeting in Scotland on Monday. Trump told reporters on Monday that he didnt mind Starmer taking a position on Palestinian statehood. On his flight back to the U.S. on Tuesday, Trump said the two never discussed the U.K. potentially recognizing a Palestinian state. We have no view on that, Trump said. Israel rejects the announcement Starmer said that Britain will recognize a state of Palestine before the United Nations General Assembly, "unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire and commit to a long-term, sustainable peace, reviving the prospect of a two-state solution. "And this includes allowing the U.N. to restart the supply of aid, and making clear there will be no annexations in the West Bank," he said. It seems highly unlikely that the government of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu could meet the conditions, which cut to the heart of the most intractable issues in the conflict. Netanyahu rejects the two-state solution on both nationalistic and security grounds. Israel's foreign ministry said it rejected the British statement. The shift in the British governments position at this time, following the French move and internal political pressures, constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of hostages," the ministry said on X. Starmer also repeated U.K. demands that Hamas release all the hostages it holds, agree to a ceasefire, disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza. Starmer said in a televised statement that his government will assess in September how far the parties have met these steps before making a final decision on recognition. Britain has long supported the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, but has said recognition should come as part of a negotiated two-state solution to the conflict. But Starmer said Britain was willing to take the step because the very idea of a two-state solution is reducing and feels further away today than it has for many years." He said that despite the set of conditions he set out, Britain believes that statehood is the inalienable right of the Palestinian people. Growing pressure on Israel Pressure to formally recognize Palestinian statehood has mounted since French President Emmanuel Macron announced that his country will become the first major Western power to recognize a Palestinian state in September. As with France, British recognition would be largely symbolic, but its part of a broader European and global shift against Israel and could increase diplomatic pressure for an end to the conflict. More than 140 countries recognize a Palestinian state, including a dozen in Europe. Macrons announcement last week made France the first Group of Seven country and the largest in Europe to take that step. Europe has widely soured on Israel over Gaza. Countries including Ireland, Spain and the Netherlands have sought to aggressively pressure Israel to let in more aid and cease military operations. More than 250 of the 650 lawmakers in the House of Commons have signed a letter urging the British government to recognize a Palestinian state. Britain has a particular historic role as the former governing power of what was then Palestine and author of the 1917 Balfour Declaration, which backed the establishment of a Jewish homeland. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Britain bore a special burden of responsibility." Our support for Israel, its right to exist, and the security of its people, is steadfast, Lammy told a meeting at the U.N. in New York. However, the Balfour Declaration came with the solemn promise that nothing shall be done, nothing which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of the Palestinian people as well. And colleagues, this has not been upheld, and it is a historical injustice which continues to unfold. France welcomed Britain's announcement. The United Kingdom is joining the momentum created by France for the recognition of the state of Palestine, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot posted on X. Omar Awadallah, assistant to the Palestinian Authoritys foreign minister, welcomed Starmers announcement and said the U.K. has a historic responsibility to recognize a Palestine state and would be correcting a historic injustice, if it follows through in September. The Palestinian Authority has limited autonomy in pockets of the occupied West Bank. ___ Associated Press writers Angela Charlton in Paris, Chris Megerian, Ibrahim Hazboun, and Farnoush Amiri and Edith Lederer at the U.N. contributed to this story. Amid the "highs and lows" of her cancer battle, Teddi Mellencamp is seeing a bright future. Asked about her prognosis on the July 29 episode of "The Jamie Kern Lima Show," the 44-year-old daughter of Heartland rock star John Mellencamp, said, "I would say probably 50-50." "But I truly believe this when I say this, and it's going to make me emotional, I truly believe that I'm going to live," said Teddi Mellencamp, who starred on the "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" from 2017 to 2020. "I think that I'm going to have some rough years. Truthfully, I think I'm going to have some lonely years because not many people know how to talk to somebody who has stage 4 cancer." She has been diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma, a type of skin cancer, that metastasized to her lungs and brain. Mellencamp, who starred on the "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" from 2017 to 2020, has a support system that includes her husband Edwin Arroyave, her three children and her father. In "The Jamie Kern Lima Show" episode, Mellencamp revealed that she and Arroyave often live in the same house. She said their divorce proceedings are on pause because of her cancer treatment. "This week, I told him I'm really sick, and he's staying downstairs in the bedroom at our house right now. We can live in the same house. We don't argue," she said. "Edwin will always be my friend," Mellencamp added. A week before the episode's release, she'd revealed that she had discontinued immunotherapy due to debilitating side effects. Mellencamp has been diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma, a type of skin cancer she has long struggled with, which had metastasized to her lungs and brain. Teddi Mellencamp opens up about dad John Mellencamp's support John Mellencamp performs during the Grammy Hall Of Fame Gala at The Beverly Hilton on May 16, 2025, in Beverly Hills, California. When Kern Lima asked whether she feels closer to her father "than ever," Mellencamp replied, "I do." "He has been beyond" helpful, she said of her Grammy-winning rocker dad. "The things that I wouldn't be capable of doing without my dad, not only for financial reasons, I used to take such pride in saying I've done all of this on my own," she said. "With all of these medical treatments and everything, he has stepped in. He's helped me have a nurse. He calls me every single day. He makes sure that I'm OK." The help is welcome during a time when the podcaster and entrepreneur "most certainly can't" manage her life as well as she'd like. Even managing her medications can be a struggle, she shared. Her strategy during her treatments, which are taxing, is to be optimistic about her health outcome. "I know that I go in two weeks from now and I get my next scan, and I fully believe, as I'm telling you right now, they're gonna tell me I'm cleared," Mellencamp said. "If I'm not, there'll be a come down from that. But it's what I need to do to get me through these next two and a half weeks. "I need to believe it. Because if not, it's just too sad." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Teddi Mellencamp reveals '50-50' prognosis amid cancer treatment Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet (L) and Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai shake hands as Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim puts his arms around them after announcing the ceasefire on Monday. - Mohd Rasfan/Pool/AFP via Getty Images A ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia appeared to largely be holding on Tuesday as military commanders from both countries met for negotiations, even as the Thai army accused Cambodian troops of violating the truce overnight. The leaders of the two Southeast Asian neighbors met in Malaysia on Monday and agreed to stop the deadly clashes that have been raging on their disputed border since Thursday, killing at least 38 people, mostly civilians, and forcing hundreds of thousands to flee their homes. The commanders of three Thai military units along the border region met their Cambodian counterparts on Tuesday and agreed to maintain the ceasefire and halt troop movement, according to Royal Thai Army spokesperson Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree. Thailands 2nd Army Region, which has been at the center of the fiercest fighting, and Cambodias Military Region 4 also agreed to a ban on firing against civilians and to refrain from reinforcing troops along the border. Winthai said that a complete ceasefire was in place along the entire border line. The talks went ahead after Thailand accused Cambodia of violating the ceasefire after it went into effect at midnight local time (1 p.m. ET Monday). Thailands Winthai said earlier Tuesday that multiple instances of Cambodian attacks had been reported after the midnight ceasefire, calling it an intentional act to undermine mutual trust. Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai described the overnight clashes as small and said the border area was calm on Tuesday morning. Cambodias Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata denied there was fighting after the ceasefire came into effect, but said Cambodian troops remained in position along the border. Both sides had accused the other of starting the latest border flare-up and traded blame for the clashes. The dispute over their border goes back decades. Two hours after the ceasefire came into effect, the Royal Thai Navy reported that fighting stopped in Thailands Trat province near the disputed border. On the Cambodian side, the head of an evacuation shelter told CNN they stopped hearing explosions. Thai residents who fled their homes following the cross-border clashes celebrate at an evacuation center in Surin province, Thailand, after hearing the announcement of an immediate and unconditional ceasefire on Monday. - Sakchai Lalit/AP News of the agreement was welcomed by residents living near the border. I feel a big (relief). No more heavy chest. Its been quiet and peaceful now, Dr. Moun Nara said 30 minutes after the ceasefire went into effect. Agreement reached Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham on Monday agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, in a move announced by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who mediated the talks his current chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The talks were hosted at the Malaysian Prime Ministers official residence near the capital Kuala Lumpur. The United States and China also participated in the negotiations. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio applauded the ceasefire on Monday and said the Trump administration expects the two governments to fully honor their commitments to end this conflict. US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that the Southeast Asian nations had agreed to ceasefire talks, but localized fighting continued throughout the weekend. Trump said he had warned the Thai and Cambodian leaders that he would not make trade deals with either country if the deadly border conflict continued. This is an important step towards reducing tensions and restoring peace and security, Hun Manet said in a statement confirming the ceasefire, in which he thanked the Malaysian prime minister, the Chinese government and Trump specifically for their support in the negotiation process. He also announced that the two countries will establish a Cambodian-Thai General Boundary Committee, which will hold an initial meeting on August 4, hosted by Cambodia. Todays outcome reflects Thailands desire for a peaceful resolution, while continuing to protect our sovereignty and the lives of our people, Phumtham said in the news conference. We agreed to a ceasefire that will be carried out in good faith by both sides. Malaysia is prepared to deploy a team to ensure implementation and observation of the ceasefire, Anwar said, adding that both Thailand and Cambodia will resume direct communication at the level of prime ministers, foreign ministers and defense ministers. Tensions rising since May In recent decades, Thailand and Cambodia have had a complicated relationship of both cooperation and rivalry. The two countries share a 500-mile (800-kilometer) land border largely mapped by the French when they controlled Cambodia as a colony that has periodically seen military clashes. Recent tension had been simmering since an encounter in May, in which a Cambodian soldier was killed. A Cambodian soldier stands on a truck carrying a Russian-made BM-21 rocket launcher travelling along a street in Oddar Meanchey province on July 26, 2025. - Tang Chhin Sothy/AFP/Getty Images Relations soured further following the release of a leaked phone call between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodias Hun Sen, the father of the current prime minister. In the call, Paetongtarn could be heard calling Hun Sen uncle and appeared to criticize her own armys actions in the border dispute, which led to her suspension after opponents accusing her of compromising the countrys interests. The most recent flare-up came after five Thai soldiers were injured in a landmine explosion last week, with the incident prompting Thailand to downgrade diplomatic relations with its neighbor. That was followed by days of deadly clashes and heavy weapons fire across their disputed border, displacing more than 139,000 people from seven provinces in Thailand, and at least 80,000 people in Cambodia. Thailand on Monday said 25 people have been killed since hostilities began, 14 of whom are civilians. Cambodian authorities previously said that in Oddar Meanchey province, which borders Thailands Surin, 13 people had been killed, including eight civilians, and 50 wounded. CNNs Helen Regan, Lex Harvey, Jonny Hallam and Jennifer Hansler contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Damien Eagers/PA Images via Getty Patrick Kielty (L) and Cat Deeley (R) at the 20th Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) Awards ceremony at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre on May 7, 2023 NEED TO KNOW So You Think You Can Dance host Cat Deeley and comedian Patrick Kielty announced their split after 12 years of marriage They shared a joint statement with PEOPLE, explaining they "have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated" The former couple also noted they "will continue to be united as loving parents" to their two children, sons Milo and James Patrick Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty are calling it quits after more than a decade of marriage. The longtime So You Think You Can Dance host, 48, and the Northern Irish comedian, 54, announced their split on Tuesday, July 29, in a joint statement. "We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated," the pair said, per BBC. "There is no other party involved," they continued. "We will continue to be united as loving parents to our children and would therefore kindly ask for our family privacy to be respected." The former couple concluded by noting that there will be "no further comment" on the matter. PEOPLE has reached out to representatives of Deeley and Kielty for comment. FOX/FOX Image Collection via Getty Patrick Kielty (L) and Cat Deeley (R) at the 67th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 20, 2015 in Los Angeles https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Deeley and Kielty have a long history and first worked together a decade before they got married. The two co-presented the British talent competition series Fame Academy, which aired for two seasons between 2002 and 2003. Fast-forward to September 2012, the couple tied the knot in Rome. In a 2015 interview on Loose Women, Kielty revealed how his and Deeley's friendship turned romantic thanks to a big gesture he made while Deeley was in Beverly Hills and he was in Northern Ireland at "a little Irish pub" around closing time. When he texted her for her birthday, Kielty remembered, "She said, 'It's just a shame you're not in L.A. because I'm having a lunch tomorrow.' So I said I'll be there." He then flew around the world and, when he walked into the Beverly Hills Hotel and said hi, Deeley "fell off the chair and we've been together ever since." Andrew Matthews/PA Images via Getty Cat Deeley (L) and Patrick Kielty (R) at the wedding of Anthony McPartlin to Anne-Marie Corbett at St Michael's church, Heckfield in Hampshire, on Aug. 7, 2021 The former couple share two children together. They welcomed their first son, Milo, in January 2016. In June 2018, they welcomed their second son, James Patrick. Between welcoming her two children with Kielty, Deeley opened up about motherhood. "I've got so much respect for all moms out there that do it. You have to juggle like crazy and have a team around you," she told PEOPLE at the time. "And whether that's your family, Mom and Dad, nanny whoever it is, you have this team. It takes a tribe I can totally understand that now." Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. While this is Kielty's first marriage, Deeley had previously been married. Read the original article on People Tyra Banks isn't afraid to reveal her bedroom antics. While guest hosting the "Today with Jenna and Friends" broadcast on July 28, the model and "America's Next Top Model" creator said she has no problem with eating in bed and enjoying the leftovers days later. Banks, 51, confessed to eating crumbs from days-old popcorn while telling Jenna Bush Hager about her pastime of watching TV in bed with her mom. "We do ice cream in bed; we do popcorn in bed. ... The great thing is a couple days later..." Banks said as Bush Hager interrupted: "You do not!" Model and TV personality Tyra Banks admitted to enjoying popcorn crumbs in her bed on "Today with Jenna and Friends." "A little bit," Banks replied as she mimed picking up bits of popcorn and eating them. "Jenna, I clean crumbs by eating them. Because if you put them in the trash, you're going to get roaches or something. So you just clean it up with your finger or you just eat it." "I'm not into eating in bed because I don't like crumbs," Bush Hager asserted. It's safe "if it's on your ground. It's your feet," Banks argued. "I have a no-shoe rule in my home. So that I can eat off my floor." She also delved into how long bits of food might be left before she gets around to eating them: "A few days if it's not super perishable. Like a popcorn? That's, like, astronaut food. It lasts forever." Banks then admitted that she is a "do as I say, not as I do" kind of mom. "I see my son do it, and I'm like, 'Don't do it.' And he's like, 'Mama, you do it.'" 'Did we get it right? Hell no': Tyra reflects on tough legacy of 'America's Next Top Model' Banks shares a son, 9-year-old York Banks Asla, with former partner Erik Asla, a photographer. As the show cut to a commercial break, the two continued debating just how hygienic Banks' antics are. The businesswoman's controversial comments come six months after Banks revealed that she'd lost her Los Angeles home in the deadly and unprecedented wildfires that spread across Southern California. Though some mementos burned in the Pacific Palisades blaze, her most important belongings were safe in her homes in Australia and New York. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tyra Banks shocks Jenna Bush with confession about days-old crumbs EPA/Shutterstock Prince Vincent, Princess Isabella, Queen Mary and King Frederik in Grasten, Denmark on July 28, 2025 NEED TO KNOW King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark's latest royal outing went off script due to a surprise outside The Queen was reportedly stung by an insect, causing her to head inside Princess Isabella and Prince Vincent hopped into action as their mom briefly retreated King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark's latest royal engagement On July 28, the King and Queen of Denmark stepped out in Grasten with their kids Princess Isabella, 18, and Prince Vincent, 14, where Queen Mary was reportedly stung by a wasp. As seen in fan footage shared on Instagram, Queen Mary stood in the town square with her husband and two of their four children before they embarked on a walkabout to greet the people who came out to see them. The Queen, 53, then dramatically reacted to something on her thigh and looked surprised as she shook out her skirt. The moment seemingly caught all four royals off guard, and King Frederik, 57, moved close to his wife's side. According to Danish newspaper JydskeVestkysten, the reason for the commotion was that Queen Mary was stung by a wasp on her thigh. The Australian-born Queen flashed a smile at the well-wishers but still struggled with her skirt and touched her leg. A few seconds later, she headed into a nearby building. Without skipping a beat, Princess Isabella and Prince Vincent moved along the line to chat with well-wishers. The siblings joined their parents for the welcome in Grasten, which marks the start of the royal family's traditional summer stay at Grasten Palace. The fan footage showed that King Frederik also continued with the walkabout, keeping his cool as he chatted with people, and his wife reappeared soon after. EPA/Shutterstock Queen Mary and King Frederik in Grasten, Denmark on July 28, 2025. King Frederik and Queen Mary share four children Crown Prince Christian, 19, Princess Isabella, and twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine and Sky News Australia reported that the King said Christian and Josephine will later join them at the palace. Just as Balmoral Castle in Scotland is a gathering place and beloved retreat for the British royal family in the summer months, the Danish royals traditionally head to Grasten Palace in the summer to relax and recharge. The Danish Royal Family/Instagram King Frederik and Queen Mary in Grasten, Denmark on July 28, 2025. Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! The Danish Royal House obtained the historic residence in 1939, and King Frederik's current summer stay with his family will be commemorated in a festive way: a Royal Lifeguard march through the town to the castle every day that they are there. Read the original article on People As international pressure to deliver more food aid to Gaza builds, the Kingdom of Jordan is "continuing to request assistance in the form of pledges to contribute aircraft, supplies, humanitarian aid, and logistical support" for its airdrop operation -- but the Trump administration has no active plans to join European allies in helping with the mission at present, according to an internal State Department communication reviewed by ABC News on Monday and two U.S. officials familiar with the matter. Per the communication, Jordan has informed the State Department of its intention to launch a three-week airdrop operation beginning in early August -- in addition to the drops conducted with the United Arab Emirates that took place Sunday -- and the department is tracking various pledges to assist with the operation from Spain, Belgium, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. "Emphasizing the irreplicable role of land routes and minimizing the risk of casualties due to airdrops are continued concerns among potential contributors," the department communication noted. Eyad Baba/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: Displaced Palestinians at the Nuseirat refugee camp haul food parcels and other items they managed to get from a GHF aid distribution point at the so-called "Netzarim corridor" in the central Gaza Strip, on July 26, 2025. MORE: Jordan, other countries could airdrop aid into Gaza as humanitarian crisis worsens Some aid organizations have also publicly expressed concerns about the efficacy and safety of airdrops. "Airdrops are the most expensive & inefficient way to deliver aid. It is a distraction to the inaction," Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency Philippe Lazzarini wrote in a post on X on Friday. Earlier Monday, President Donald Trump promised the U.S. would be "even more involved" when it comes to delivering aid to Gaza, saying this administration would work with European allies to set up "food centers" with fewer restrictions on access. He also suggested that additional assistance could come in the form of the U.S. helping with air drops if his administration chose to do so. "We did some airlifts before, some airdrops," he said following a meeting with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. "It's not very hard to do, actually." MORE: 'I don't know': Trump says of Netanyahu denying Gaza starvation crisis Jordan has also informed the State Department that it encountered significant delays when moving aid into Gaza by ground on Sunday, stating that the Israeli government allowed only 25 out of 60 trucks traveling from Jordan to enter the enclave. According to the internal communication, the Jordanian Armed Forces reported that the screening of the aid convoy "went substantially slower" than it has for three previous convoys organized by the country. The 25 trucks that were permitted entry on Sunday were carrying World Food Programme contents, while the delayed trucks were carrying food supplies from other organizations, including World Central Kitchen and the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization, it added. Jordan has informed the department of its intention to move two more convoys into Gaza this week, according to the communication. Andrew Harnik/Getty Images - PHOTO: President Donald Trump speaks during a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Trump Turnberry golf club, July 28, 2025 in Turnberry, Scotland. "President Trump wants to alleviate suffering for the people of Gaza because he has a humanitarian heart. He announced a new aid plan today to help Gazans obtain crucial access to food details are forthcoming," White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly said in a comment to ABC News. Trump said earlier that European countries would also help with his plan to set up food centers but shared few other details about his vision. MORE: Israel announces 'tactical' military pause in 3 Gaza areas, as aid routes set to open "We have all of the European nations joining us, and others also have called. So, we're going to set up food centers and where the people can walk in and no boundaries. We're not going to have fences," he said. Regarding ABC News reporting on Jordan's request for assistance with its air drop operation and the reported delay moving ground aid into Gaza caused by Israel, a State Department spokesperson responded, "President Trump has called for creative solutions 'to help the Palestinians' in Gaza, and we welcome any effective effort that delivers food to Gazans and keeps it out of the hands of Hamas." "At this time, GHF remains the best mechanism for getting aid into the hands of people in desperate need in Gaza while also keeping aid out of the hands of Hamas," the spokesperson said, referring to the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. "A track record of distributing over 94 million meals to date while preventing any Hamas looting is absolutely incredible and should be commended and supported. We call on other aid agencies and the UN to participate in this secure aid delivery system and take GHF up on its offer to use its system to deliver food to Gazans in need," the spokesperson said. The Trump administration has pledged at least $30 million to the GHF and thrown its full support behind the controversial charity despite concerns from critics regarding its aid distribution practices. Earlier this month, more than 160 charity groups and NGOs called for the GHF to be shut down, claiming that more than 500 Palestinians had been killed while seeking aid from the organization and that its distribution locations have become sites of repeated massacres in blatant disregard for international humanitarian law. The United Nations has also rejected requests to cooperate with GHF. We welcome working with any other partners. All we ask is that those partners work based on the most basic humanitarian principles, one of them being that dont set up an operation that will increase the risk of people to be shot at or trampled while trying to get food, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in a press conference last week. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation pushed back on the criticism in a statement to ABC News. "While Oxfam, MSF and these other groups hold press conferences and send out threatening letters, GHF is on the ground feeding people," a GHF spokesperson said. "We've offered to help them deliver it safely. They've refused. The humanitarian community must return to its core mission -- feeding people -- not protecting outdated systems or avoiding the discomfort of change. In a letter sent to Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday, a group of 21 Democratic senators called for the Trump administration to immediately cease funding for the GHF and resume support for the existing U.N-led aid coordination mechanisms. There should be no American taxpayer dollars contributing to this scheme, the lawmakers wrote. Lionsgate Katie Lowes in 'The Hunting Wives'. NEED TO KNOW The Hunting Wives centers around a female friend group in the town of Maple Brook, Texas The Netflix show, which stars Brittany Snow and Malin Akerman, was filmed in North Carolina The Hunting Wives utilized several small-town bars and restaurants for filming While The Hunting Wives is set in East Texas, the hit series wasn't filmed in the Lone Star State. The new Netflix thriller, which is based on the novel by May Cobb, follows Sophie ONeil (Brittany Snow) as she uproots her life from the East Coast to the South with her husband, Graham (Evan Jonigkeit). Along the way, she befriends the head of the Hunting Wives friend group, Margo Bank (Malin Akerman), and her husband, Graham's boss, Jed (Dermot Mulroney). In The Hunting Wives, the characters' lives revolve around their small Texas social circle. In reality, the series was filmed almost entirely in North Carolina. The town of Mooresville, which is located 30 miles north of Charlotte, was transformed into the fictional Texas city of Maple Brook. Although the town in The Hunting Wives is fictional, the show features real-life spots that were either adapted for the show or stayed remarkably true to their normal state for filming. So, where was The Hunting Wives filmed? Here's everything to know about the show's real-life locations. Where was The Hunting Wives filmed? Lionsgate Katie Lowes, Brittany Snow and Malin Akerman in 'The Hunting Wives'. Although The Hunting Wives centers around a group of friends in Texas, the series was filmed at a variety of locations around the Charlotte area in North Carolina. The quaint town of Mooresville, N.C., which is located 30 miles north of Charlotte, turned into Maple Brook, per Queen City News. Main Street lies in the heart of Mooresville and had several of its stores and restaurants take on different names for The Hunting Wives. For instance, the series features a store named the Cavendish Boot Barn, but in reality, the property is a men's clothing store named Hampton's of Mooresville, per Atlas of Wonders. Meanwhile, Pie in the Sky Pizza, which is also on Main Street, is a real restaurant that was shown with its real name. A second restaurant that remained the same was What-A-Burger. In addition to primarily using downtown Mooresville, the show also featured locations from other areas near Charlotte. A main area where the group of women hang out is the Azalea Retreat on Lake Norman in Sherrills Ford, about 40 miles north of Charlotte. The luxurious log cabin retreat is 6,500 square feet with six bedrooms and sleeps up to 22 guests on a two-acre lot overlooking the lake. Another location the women frequent is the outdoor trails near Maple Brook, which were actually filmed at Falcon Trail Trailhead located in Richfield, about 45 miles northeast of Charlotte. When the Hunting Wives weren't spending time outdoors, they enjoyed frequenting eateries and wineries including the real-life Dilworth Tasting Room in Charlotte, per the Charlotte Observer. Other areas that were shown in the show include the Stone Haven Estate in Concord, the Park Church in Charlotte, the Mooresville Public Library and the Chapter 6 cocktail bar in Charlotte, among others. Is the town of Maple Brook real? Lionsgate Malin Akerman and Brittany Snow 'The Hunting Wives'. In The Hunting Wives book, the story is set in the picturesque town of Mapleton in Kirk County, Texas. Meanwhile, the 2025 Netflix series adapted the book and renamed the town Maple Brook. Both Mapleton and Maple Brook are fictional towns. However, Cobb later explained that she wrote Mapleton based on her hometown, Longview, Texas. "I still dont really know why I did that because everyone knows this is Longview, Cobb told the Marshall News Messenger in July 2025. Is Coyote Joes real? coyotejoes/Instagram Coyote Joe's bar in North Carolina. One of the more memorable venues in The Hunting Wives is Coyote Joe's. Unlike the town of Maple Brook, Coyote Joe's is a real-life honky-tonk bar beloved by Charlotte locals. When the women venture to the dive, they enjoy line dancing, drinking with friends and chatting with other locals. In reality, Coyote Joe's offers patrons similar activities and hosts several live concerts, dance lessons and events. What have the stars said about filming in North Carolina? Lionsgate Katie Lowes and Jaime Ray Newman in 'The Hunting Wives'. Several stars from The Hunting Wives have raved about working in Charlotte and even enjoyed some of the same activities as their characters. Snow told PEOPLE in July 2025 that she and Akerman would mellow out after filming by going out to a restaurant in Charlotte. "We would get these huge turkey sandwiches that were the size of our faces, and we would each have a turkey sandwich and a margarita and just laugh and debrief about the day," Snow told PEOPLE. "A couple of times we even took our lines to try to memorize them while we were eating, which didn't always work out." Meanwhile, Chrissy Metz, who plays Starr, told Queen City News that she "honestly loved Charlotte." "The food was great, and the people were so warm, and there was stuff to do, but also it didnt feel so overwhelmingly big," she continued. "It was just great ... I hadnt been to Charlotte and I certainly hadnt worked there, so it was great and all the girls and I, we had such a great time." Both Metz and Akerman also revealed that they often frequented Coyote Joe's as a cast. There happens to be this incredible honky-tonk bar called Coyote Joes, Akerman said on Live with Kelly and Mark in July 2025. We actually shot a scene there as well for the show, but once we discovered it, we were there every single weekend, going, you know, two-stepping with all the cowboys. It was a blast. Read the original article on People President Trump's recent trade framework announcements have included sketchy initial details that can take days to fill in and sometimes are even contradicted by those on the other side of the table. Yet markets dont seem to mind this emerging pattern. In fact, the signal investors are apparently taking from these pacts, from Europe to Japan to Vietnam, is one of increased stability down the road. Even vague details are perhaps better than the ups and downs of negotiations or the worse outcomes that had previously been on the table. As Siebert Financial chief investment officer Mark Malek put it recently on Yahoo Finance, what is known about these complex deals to investors "basically fit into an index card [and] they are basically leaving it all to us to figure out." But Malek added that markets have remained stable because of the overall signal that worst-case scenarios are being avoided, "so I think, for the most part, we're happy." President Trump shakes hands with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen after announcing an agreement between the two economies following their meeting in Scotland on July 27. (Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images) (BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI via Getty Images) Whether that happiness continues remains to be seen, with plenty of moving trade pieces still on offer. The latest wave of talks with China ended on Tuesday, with Trump expected to eventually make the "final call" on whether to extend the tariff delay between the two countries. Negotiations continue with Europe as trade watchers await a formal joint statement on the deal, and negotiators are still apparently at work to lock in legally binding text. Other major talks like those with India remain outstanding. The economic effects of the deals are also starting to come into focus based on what details are available. The latest analysis from the Budget Lab at Yale found that consumers are set to face an overall average effective tariff rate of 18.2% the highest since 1934 if all the tariffs announced through Monday go forward. Read more: What Trump's tariffs mean for the economy and your wallet Despite that 90-plus-year high, markets have continued to be relatively sanguine. Tobin Marcus of Wolfe Research offered another explanation for the market's relatively subdued response. In a recent note, he outlined that what is known may be sketchy, but it's "a bullish outcome v. the range of possibilities, especially the reduction of sectoral tariffs to 15%," adding that this emerging 15% standard is "better-than-feared." He added that markets also appear to have shifted, and instead of a previous hope for a dynamic of "escalate to deescalate" that is to say, a tense standoff followed by a deal to lower rates the dynamic now apparently being priced in is one he termed an "escalate-to-escalate-less." Often fuzzy math The fuzziness of the details is a pattern that has been repeated and appears likely to continue. Earlier this month, Trump announced a deal with Vietnam that included a 20% tariff rate. Later reporting from Bloomberg revealed that Vietnam's leadership was caught off guard by the number and continues to want a lower rate. Likewise in a deal last week with Japan. First, Trump announced a deal including plans for a "new Japanese/USA investment vehicle" even as questions immediately cropped up about what that would entail, with the US and Japanese sides offering vastly different accounts. It happened again with a Europe deal announced this weekend. Trump suggested the new 15% rate did not apply to sector-specific tariffs, at one point calling pharmaceuticals "unrelated to this deal." While 50% tariffs currently levied on steel and aluminum (and on planned duties at the same rate on copper) will remain outside the pact, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors appear very much part of the European deal. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the overall 15% rate would apply. By Monday, the White House confirmed that account with a deal fact sheet stating that the 15% rate will apply to "autos and auto parts, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductors." As Pangaea Policy founder Terry Haines put it on Yahoo Finance Monday: "The way markets have been looking at these deals, kind of the fact of the deal is much more important than the details." Ben Werschkul is a Washington correspondent for Yahoo Finance. Click here for political news related to business and money policies that will shape tomorrow's stock prices Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Google Maps Mount Sinai Morningside NEED TO KNOW New York City's Mount Sinai Hospital is seeking information from the public to help them identity a patient who was admitted on April 12 The hospital said the woman, who is known as "Pam," regularly dresses in black and hides her face It is not known what she is being hospitalized for, but the woman was admitted after being found at a bus stop in Manhattan A hospital in New York City is seeking the publics help in identifying a female patient who has been hospitalized there for over three months. Mount Sinai Hospital said the mystery woman has been staying at its Morningside location after being admitted on April 12, according to reports from WABC, WNBC and WPIX. A Mount Sinai spokesperson said the woman was found at a bus stop bench around 125th Street and Lenox Avenue in the neighborhood of Harlem, after a concerned bystander contacted authorities, per WPIX. The woman is reportedly known in the area by the name of Pam, WNBC reported. She is described as Black and possibly in her 50s, measuring 5'8 in height and weighing 170 lbs. with dark brown eyes and greying black hair, per WABC. The hospital added that the woman regularly dresses in black and hides her face. It is not clear why she was hospitalized. Those with information concerning the mystery patient should call Mount Sinai at 646-901-9309. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. PEOPLE contacted Mount Sinai Hospital for additional information on Monday, July 28. Read the original article on People Getty Stock photo of a woman making a coffee at work NEED TO KNOW A woman confronts a coworker over a daily office habit The coworker repeatedly helped herself to OP's expensive coffee pods without asking After asking to be reimbursed for the pods, she's been called "petty" by her coworkers A woman seeks support from the Reddit community following a tense workplace moment over something as small, but significant, as coffee. In a post, she explains that a coworker has been regularly helping herself to her personal stash of premium coffee pods without asking. Getty Stock photo of two co-workers having coffee together "At first I didn't mind because it was just once in a while," the poster shares. "But now it's literally every single day, sometimes twice a day." What began as an occasional indulgence has turned into a daily habit, and the cost is adding up fast. The woman notes that each pod costs around $1.50, and shes been stocking them to help cut down on Starbucks spending while saving for a vacation. "I calculated it out and she's probably used about $45 worth of my coffee in the past month," she writes. Though she admits she was hesitant to say anything at first, she finally brought it up in a polite way. "I said something like 'hey just so you know those pods cost quite a bit, would you mind chipping in or bringing your own?' " she recalls. Rather than responding with understanding, her coworker took offense. "She said she thought I was just being nice by sharing and that it's weird to keep track of something so small," the woman explains. But the coffee was never meant to be a shared office supply. "The thing is I never actually offered to share them?" she writes. "She just started taking them one day and I was too awkward to say anything at first." Now the dynamic at work has shifted, with the poster feeling like shes being treated as the villain. "She's been giving me the cold shoulder all week and even made some comment to other people about how I'm 'nickel and diming' her over coffee," she adds. For the woman, its not about being petty. Its about fairness and respect. "If someone was eating your lunch every day without asking you'd say something right?" she asks, highlighting the boundary that was crossed. Commenters were quick to offer support and practical advice, validating her frustration. "Put the pods somewhere she can't reach them," one user suggests. "Lock them in a cabinet, drawer or box." While some advised that its too late to ask for repayment, they emphasized the importance of setting limits. "You haven't spoken up until now, so you can't charge her for the past," the commenter continues. "Yes, she's an A-hole for treating coffee like a free candy dish." Getty Stock photo of woman using a capsule coffee machine Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Others pointed out that the situation could have been better managed early on. "You arent overreacting at all but hopefully this can be a lesson on speaking up," one person comments. "Calling her out from the beginning for taking without asking would have been best." The post has sparked widespread sympathy from fellow Redditors who agree the woman has every right to draw the line. One commenter even imagines the perfect response: "If she asks why they are no longer available, tell her the truth. 'I can't afford to give them away any longer. You can buy them for yourself on Amazon.' " Despite the awkward fallout, the woman seems to be standing firm on her decision to finally speak up. Read the original article on People Partners should be paying attention to the IT landscapes shift away from infrastructure and towards outcomes, with AI playing an important role, according to Google Cloud Australia and New Zealand (A/NZ) head of partners and alliances Gary Denman. Denman spoke to ARN ahead of the vendors Summit event in Sydney on 30 July, noting that customers want their outcomes solved, and theyre looking for others to provide the technology to do so. Theyre not looking to try and create infrastructure in the way that they were historically, he said. They have this challenge now around needing to do more with less time and resources, so they dont have the capacity to deal with thousands and thousands of services; theyre looking for platforms, and then what theyre really uncovering is AI. Theres a really interesting opportunity for businesses around AI; the realisation is that you need to have your data at the centre of your business. As a result, Denman said Google Cloud is hearing demand from customers to become data centred who are desiring true partnerships. by Lisa Bongiovanni A detailed report on this long-standing phenomenon was released today: an impure job reserved for non-Muslims. Although they make up only 2% of the population, 80% of garbage collectors are Christians, with the rest being Hindus. At least 84 have died in the last five years due to outdated infrastructure and techniques: their lives are not worth the cost of modernization. Amnesty: Pakistan must recognize caste discrimination as a form of racism. Milan (AsiaNews/Agencies) - Shafiq is 44 years old and lives in Pakistan. Every day, in order not to lose his job, he descends into the depths of the city's sewers, braving toxic gases, industrial waste, and excrement, manually clearing blocked drains. When you go down into the sewer, you have to put your self-respect aside, he tells AFP. People go to the bathroom, flush the toilet, and all the filth comes down on us. Shafiq is a garbage collector and works in the sewer system, like many Christians in Pakistan. Unlike their colleagues in the rest of the world, in the country where he works, this job is not associated with any kind of protection or dignity, forcing them into unnecessarily risky or humiliating conditions. This is what Amnesty International points out in a new report denouncing their situation: the aim is to ensure that this job also meets minimum standards of dignity and safety. There are several reasons why Shafiq is forced to do this job and why it is still so backward. The main one is the continuing discrimination by the Muslim majority against Christian and Hindu minorities. In fact, according to Amnesty, 80% of garbage collectors are Christiandespite representing less than 2% of Pakistan's populationwhile the remaining 20% are Hindu. For the Muslim majority, cleaning sewers is an unclean task to be reserved for the lowest classes. Although the caste system no longer officially exists, institutionalized discrimination remains rampant: many job advertisements for sewer cleaners still specify non-Muslims only. The Centre for Law and Justice (a local NGO) has collected nearly 300 such advertisements over the past decade. A man from Bahawalpur, a large city in the country, told Amnesty that he had an interview for a job as an electrician, but when they found out he was Christian, they only offered him a job as a garbage collector. He accepted because he has to support his family. The stigma is confirmed in the language: chuhra, which traditionally referred to those who worked in sanitation, is now synonymous with Christian. Other terms, such as bhangi (the historical name of a Dalit caste) and jamadar (a word in Urdu the Pakistani language written with an alphabet similar to Arabic which can be translated as janitor, but in Pakistani social perception takes on derogatory characteristics reminiscent of dirt), issai (derogatory for Christians) or even kutta (dog) reinforce the marginalization of these workers. Discrimination is also reflected in the contemptuous conditions in which Christian and Hindu garbage collectors are forced to work. The Pakistani newspaper The Dawn has also collected several testimonies from sewer workers. Among them is Adil Masih, 22, who has been immersed in the sewers of Karachi at least 100 times in the last two years. His goal is to do his job well, hoping to move from kachha (informal worker) to pucca (permanent employee) at the state-owned company he works for. He now earns 25,000 rupees (about 0) a month, which will become 32,000 rupees (about ) the legally established minimum wage when he becomes a regular employee. You have to be careful when you go down there. Not because of the army of cockroaches and the stench that greets you when you open the manhole cover or the rats swimming in the dirty water, Adil explains, but because you have to watch out for the blades and syringes floating on the surface or lying at the bottom. Obviously, going down into the sewers is a last resort. When the sewers become blocked, they first try to unblock them with a long bamboo pole; if that doesn't work, they try with their hands. The workers work in teams: one descends with a harness tied to a rope, and if something goes wrong or he has finished, he pulls the rope and those on the opposite side of the rope pull him back up. According to the organization Sweepers Are Superheroes, at least 84 sanitation workers have died in Pakistan in the last five years. But the problem is not isolated to the country's borders: in India, one sanitation worker dies every five days, according to a 2018 report by the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (a commission set up to monitor the conditions of these workers). One of the reasons why unblocking sewers in Pakistan is so dangerous is, first and foremost, the backwardness of the system, which still does not rely on machinery. This delay could be linked to backward social beliefs which, in addition to keeping these jobs the preserve of the lowest classes, discourage the modernization of sewerage infrastructure and the techniques used. According to some, it is right to reserve this treatment for the lowest castes. According to Amnesty, 76% of those interviewed fear sudden dismissal, and 70% say they cannot afford to refuse even the most dangerous tasks. The deeply unfair treatment of sanitation workers in Pakistan is a violation of human rights, said Isabelle Lassee, Amnesty International's deputy regional director for South Asia. "Many members of minority groups are forced into this work because of deep-rooted prejudices that leave them with no alternative. The problem is that the country's legal system still does not recognize caste discrimination as a form of racism." To date, Pakistan does not have anti-discrimination legislation in line with the international conventions it has signed. Amnesty is therefore calling on the government to pass specific legislation against caste-based discrimination to ensure that these workers are guaranteed at least minimum standards of dignity, safety, and social justice. by Mathias Hariyadi Indonesian Christians are concerned after intolerant Muslim neighbours attacked a house where Sunday prayers were underway last Sunday. The local mayor claims it was merely a "misunderstanding" among residents. In an open letter to President Prabowo, Rev Fu Kwet Khiong writes that the incident was an attack on the nations conscience, calling for religious tolerance to be a real policy, not just rhetoric. Padang (AsiaNews) The attack on a house used for worship by the Indonesian Faithful Christian Church (GKSI), an Evangelical group, is raising concerns among Indonesian Christians. Two children were injured in the incident, which occurred last Sunday afternoon in a location in Koto Tangah, a district in Padang City, West Sumatra province. The building used for worship suffered serious damage as well. In the videos showing the aftermath broken chairs and tables can be seen, the entrance gate torn down, four window panes shattered, and religious material scattered around. Padang City Mayor Fadly Amran described the incident as a "misunderstanding" on the part of residents, claiming that the building was not a formal church, but a house used for Christian religious education. But Rev Fu Kwet Khiong, founder of the Fellowship of Prayer, Word, Truth, and Life (SDFKK), expressed concern about such acts of intolerance recurring across the country. In an open letter addressed yesterday to President Prabowo Subianto, he writes: When children are injured during worship, it is not just a house of prayer that is under attack it is the nations the conscience. In the same missive, the clergyman expresses three demands: arrest and prosecute all those responsible, including those instigating the attack; provide comprehensive and lasting protection for minority houses of worship; and have the government make concrete commitment to enforce religious tolerance as a real policy, not just rhetoric. The Indonesian Catholic Scholars Association (PP ISKA) echoes Rev Fu's concerns. Its chairperson, Restu Hapsari, spoke to AsiaNews, stating that the incident was clearly an act of intolerance, not simply a misunderstanding. The scale of the damage clearly shows intent. This is a violation of the constitutional right to worship freely, Restu said. For her, it is urgent to provide coordinated responses, including the restoration of the facility and psychological support for the affected worshippers. "This is not just about one house of worship. It is a test of the collective commitment to preserve peace and pluralism in Indonesia," she added. The vote is scheduled for mid-September to signal a return to normalcy, but a third of parliamentarians will still be appointed by al-Sharaa, there are no political parties, and the current constitution does not provide for autonomy for certain provinces. The issues in Rojava, the Kurdish-majority region, and the southern governorate of Suwayda, home to the Druze. Meanwhile, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees has denounced abuses against Alawite women. Damascus (AsiaNews) - Parliamentary elections will be held in Syria between September 15 and 20. This was announced on Sunday, July 27, by the head of the electoral commission, Mohamed Taha al-Ahmad, to the state news agency SANA. After decades of dictatorship, Syrian citizens will be able to vote freely. Or almost. The constitution drafted by the current president (a former jihadist) Ahmed al-Sharaa provides for 140 of the 210 seats to be allocated through direct elections, while a third of the People's Assembly will be appointed by presidential decree. The government, composed mainly of former fighters from Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the movement that ended Bashar al-Assad's regime, has promised to open its doors to international observers and that regions not yet under government control (such as the Kurdish-controlled northeast or the southern governorate of Suwayda, which has been the scene of violent clashes between the Druze community and other militias for weeks) will continue to have seats allocated according to the ethnic composition of the population. However, a number of problems remain that are difficult to imagine being resolved in a few weeks: there is a lack of infrastructure and official documents necessary to hold elections. Millions of Syrians are still registered as refugees. So far, the creation of political parties has not been encouraged, and the current constitution does not provide for any form of autonomy for some provinces over others, making the fate of Rojava, the Kurdish-majority region, particularly unclear. According to previous announcements, Kurdish fighters were supposed to join the Syrian army, but no agreement has yet been reached with Damascus. Meanwhile, the situation in Suwayda has not yet been pacified. In recent weeks, clashes between Druze and Bedouin tribes, joined by militias close to the al-Sharaa government, have degenerated into widespread violence. Israel intervened in defense of the Druze, bombing southern Syria and the capital. According to local sources who preferred to remain anonymous, even local journalists have been unable to reach the area for two days. The United Nations has recorded at least 176,000 displaced persons and, according to information circulating on social media, in recent days the population has held demonstrations against the government authorities to protest against the imposition of blockades on the governorate. Some trade unions have broken away from their headquarters in Damascus to denounce the current administration's silence on the violence and atrocities committed in Suwayda and the surrounding area. Damascus has defended itself by saying that humanitarian corridors are fully operational, with regular arrivals of supplies, including fuel, food, and medicine, and that if anything, it is the pro-Hijri factions that are monopolizing humanitarian aid. The reference is to the Druze spiritual leader Hikmat al Hijri, linked to the trafficking of Captagon (a drug whose trade was controlled by the Assad family) and held responsible for the continuation of fighting against Bedouin clans and militias affiliated with the current government, who in turn accuse the Druze tribes of harboring members of Bashar al-Assad's former regime. Tens of thousands of displaced people, mostly from Bedouin communities, have taken refuge in temporary shelters in the nearby governorate of Daraa, but it is still unclear how (if) the situation will be resolved. Clashes with Druze communities in Syria had already been reported at the end of April, but the government had attempted to reach an agreement by allowing local militias to manage security in the Suwayda area instead of the new general security forces established by Sharaa, often with fighters from the ranks of HTS and other militias. The current government is unable to protect even members of the Alawite minority, to which the Assad family belonged. After clashes along the coast in March, in which more than 1,000 people were killed, extremist elements continued to perpetrate abuses, especially against Alawite women. Last week, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights expressed serious concern about the disappearances and abductions of Alawite women and girls: "The victims, aged between 3 and 40, were reportedly abducted in broad daylight while on their way to school, visiting relatives or in their homes. In several cases, families have received threats and have been discouraged from pursuing investigations or speaking publicly, the statement said. The allegations have also been confirmed by Amnesty International, which says the victims are at risk of forced marriage, human trafficking, and other forms of abuse. The Alawite community, already devastated by previous massacres, has been deeply shaken by this wave of abductions. Women and girls are afraid to leave their homes or walk alone," denounced the human rights organization, which pointed out that several cases had already been reported to the police. However, most cases were closed and, in two cases, the police blamed the girls themselves for the kidnapping. In another case, even after the ransom was paid by the family, a woman was not released. In other documented cases, it is likely that the girls were forced to marry their kidnappers. Amnesty has called on the current government to open an investigation and prosecute those responsible. GATEWAY TO THE EAST IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO THE MIDDLE EAST. WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE IT EVERY TUESDAY? TO SUBSCRIBE, CLICK HERE. New data released yesterday by the FAO in Addis Ababa show a slight improvement, with the global population suffering from undernourishment dropping to 8.2 per cent (approximately 672 million people). However, large increases in Africa and the Middle East have offset much of the gains made by 19.4 million Indians leaving the most at-risk group. Milan (AsiaNews/Agencies) For a third consecutive year, fewer people are suffering from hunger in the world in 2024, 673 million people or 8.2 per cent of the worlds population, down by 15 million or three decimal points over the previous 12 months ago. Although positive, this decline is too slow. At this rate, at least 512 million people will still be living on the edge of survival by 2030, far from the Zero Hunger goal the United Nations had ambitiously set for that date. This is the broad outline provided by The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2025 (SOFI 2025), the most important annual report on hunger, released yesterday afternoon by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), where the UN Food Summit is underway. While this is the general picture, specific regional data are of great interest (see figure 2). Looking through them, we can see that improvements are not uniform around the world; in fact, hunger is increasing in some areas, most notably Africa and the war-torn Middle East. Thus, any improvements are due mainly to some regions in Asia, and, to a much lesser extent, Latin America. Looking at the Asian continent, 323.4 million people suffer from hunger in 2024, that is 6.7 per cent of its population. This is evidently a significant number, but still 23.8 million fewer than a year earlier. According to the FAO, this important step forward was made possible primarily by India, which alone is estimated to have lifted 19.4 million people out of the undernourished zone in 2024, a total of 47.1 million if the previous two years are considered. This figure must certainly be viewed in relation to India's 1.4 billion people. FAO data show that 197 million Indians suffered from hunger two years ago; last year, they are 149.9 million, down by a quarter in 24 months, and just short of a quarter of the world's undernourished population. India's case is the most striking, but it is not isolated; other countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia have also made significant progress, according to FAO estimates. Putting India aside, Asia had 4.4 million fewer hungry people in 2024 than it had 12 months earlier, even including 1.2 million people in the Middle East, who have fallen into this group. This means that 5.6 million people in other countries have seen their conditions improve. These data should be taken for what they are, statistical surveys that clearly cannot convey the full complexity of a situation that often lies below the surface where it is hard to get to the data. Yet despite all their limitations, the figures point to a general trend that is important to note, one worth exploring further. 29 July 2025 17:15 (UTC+04:00) The trial of Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan, charged under Azerbaijans Criminal Code with crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, financing terrorism, and other serious offenses, continued on July 29 at the Baku Military Court, Azernews reports. The open court session, presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev, with Judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov (reserve judge Gunel Samadova), ensured that Vardanyan was provided with a Russian-language interpreter and a defense lawyer of his choice. Before questioning, Judge Aghayev explained the legal rights and obligations to victims and their legal heirs attending the trial for the first time. Rahim Kalbiyev, legal heir and father of victim Isa Kalbiyev, stated that his son was killed in the Kalbajar district by gunfire from remnants of Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups. Ilgar Khalilov, legal heir and father of victim Mahammad Khalili, testified that his son was killed in Khojavand by gunfire from the enemy forces. Victim Kamran Isgandarli, answering Nasir Bayramov, head of the Prosecutor Generals Department for Public Prosecution, said he was injured in Kalbajar by a shell explosion from remnants of Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups, adding that three more persons were killed during the incident, while seven others sustained bodily injuries of varying degrees. Answering Vusal Aliyev, Senior Assistant to the Prosecutor General, victim Alifandi Farziyev stated that he was injured in Khojaly by a shell explosion. Victim Elgun Mammadli, responding to prosecutor Tarana Mammadova, reported being wounded in Lachin by gunfire from remnants of Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups. He further added that he was wounded in the leg and suffered a closed-head injury. Elchin Ismayilov said that he was injured by gunfire from enemy forces. Responding to prosecutor Fuad Musayev, victim Nadir Rzayev stated that he was injured in the direction of Aghdara by an artillery shell explosion from remnants of Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups. Responding to prosecutor Vusal Abdullayev, victim Panah Sadikhov mentioned that he was wounded in Lachin due to fire from various weapons by enemy forces. Nurlan Ismayilov testified that he sustained injuries from enemy forces artillery fire in Lachin, adding that during the incident, two persons were wounded and two others killed. Alakbar Pashayev testified that he suffered a closed-head injury in Kalbajar by gunfire from remnants of Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups. Tabriz Mamizada reported being wounded in Kalbajar by gunfire. Hajibaba Guliyev emphasized that he was wounded in his right leg in Aghdam by gunfire from remnants of Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups. In their testimonies, other injured individuals - Amin Rahmatzada, Murad Babazada, Jeyhun Guliyev, Elchin Zeynalzada, Ziyafeddin Ramazanov and Elnur Badalov, stated that were wounded by gunfire from remnants of Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups. The next court session is scheduled for August 5. Ruben Vardanyan faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including Articles 100.1, 100.2 (planning, preparing, initiating, and waging a war of aggression), 107 (deportation and forced displacement of the population), 109 (persecution), 110 (forcible disappearance of persons), 112 (deprivation of liberty contrary to international law), 113 (torture), 114.1 (mercenary activity), 115.2 (violation of the laws and customs of warfare), 116.0.1, 116.0.2, 116.0.10, 116.0.11, 116.0.16, 116.0.18 (violation of international humanitarian law norms during an armed conflict), 120.2.1, 120.2.3, 120.2.4, 120.2.7, 120.2.11, 120.2.12 (intentional murder), 29.120.2.1, 29.120.2.3, 29.120.2.4, 29.120.2.7, 29.120.2.11, 29.120.2.12 (attempted intentional murder), 192.3.1 (illegal entrepreneurship), 214.2.1, 214.2.3, 214.2.4 (terrorism), 214-1 (financing of terrorism), 218.1, 218.2 (creation of a criminal group), 228.3 (illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation, and possession of firearms, ammunition, explosives, and devices), 270-1.2, 270-1.4 (acts threatening aviation safety), 278.1 (forcible seizure or retention of power, forcible change of the constitutional structure of the state), 279.1, 279.2, 279.3 (creation of armed formations not provided for by law), and 318.2 (illegal crossing of the state border of the Republic of Azerbaijan). 29 July 2025 08:30 (UTC+04:00) Full digital access to all news for 1 year Full digital access to all news for 6 months Full digital access to all news for 3 months Full digital access to all news for 1 month Find the plan that suits you best. In a significant milestone for regional energy cooperation, a company within Ukraines state-owned Naftogaz Group has signed its first-ever agreement to purchase Azerbaijani natural gas. The deal, concluded with SOCAR Energy Ukraine the Ukrainian subsidiary of Azerbaijans State Oil Company (SOCAR) marks a pivotal development not only in bilateral relations but also in the broader energy security landscape of Eastern Europe. Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention. Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis. By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more. Subscribe You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper Thank you! 29 July 2025 14:46 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more A compelling moment arrived in Baku this summer, as two neighboring Caspian nations, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan, gathered for the 8th meeting of their Joint Intergovernmental Commission on economic and humanitarian cooperation. Beneath the polished diplomatic formality lay a deeper truth: this is where centuryold fraternal ties meet bold new ambition. This meeting is undoubtedly very important. It marks the beginning of a new era in the official Ashgabat-Baku relationship, which has been somewhat strained for a while. The first sign of warming relations was the visit of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the Chairman of the People's Council of Turkmenistan, to Azerbaijan. The "melting of ice" between these two countries has accelerated in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war and the risks associated with transport corridors that pass through Iran. A key interest that unites Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan is their joint involvement in the Middle Corridor (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) project. Europes growing interest in this corridor, along with the increasing significance of Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan as major players in the logistics and transport route from East to West, has brought the two countries closer together. This meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission is significant as it took place after a break of nearly two years. Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov opened the meeting by reminding participants that Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan share not only geography, but a common history, cultural closeness, and mutual trust between their leaders. These bonds now form the bedrock of an expanding partnership built around shared infrastructure, energy, and people-to-people connections. The session underscored a wide-ranging commitment: expanding cooperation across trade, industry, transport, energy and beyond. Investments are already underway75 Turkmencapital companies operate in Azerbaijan, engaged in sectors such as industry, services, construction and logisticswith both sides expressing determination to deepen this economic presence. Energy cooperation took center stage. With Azerbaijans advanced export infrastructure and Turkmenistans resource base, joint dialogues are underway on projects that could reinforce regional energy security and provide mutual benefit. Transport connectivity was another highlight, especially the revival of the EastWest corridor and strengthening of the Middle Corridor. Last year, transit cargo between the two countries exceeded 2 million tonnes, and the first half of 2025 alone already crossed 1 million tonnes, indicating a sustained upward trajectory. These volumes reflect more than raw tonnagethey signal growing confidence in a regional logistics hub powered by strategic vision. Within Azerbaijan, the Port of Baku and Caspian Sea shipping operations have expanded capacity sharply. For instance, in the first half of 2025, ASCO handled 666 thousand tonnes of dry cargoa yearonyear increase of 83%while overall transit via Azerbaijan reached 1.741 million tonnes, up 7% from the previous year. Container metrics also tell a transformative story: the Port of Baku processed 53,000 TEU in that period71% more than in the same six months of 2024. Annual cargo handled in 2024 reached 7.6 million tonnes, with container traffic up 73% to 76,775 TEU, vehicle handling up 7.2%, and dry cargo volume exceeding 1,044,000 tonnes. It is in this growing transport synergy that TurkmenAzerbaijan cooperation finds its practical expression. The Astara Terminal agreement and broader NorthSouth Corridor projects show how intertwined their logistics futures already are. But beyond numbers and steel rails, this partnership reflects a diplomatic vision. Azerbaijan offered Turkmen citizens access to its Zangazur Corridor, free economic zones, and export-oriented infrastructure. Turkmen leaders responded by reaffirming plans to invest in Azerbaijans economy and collaborate in multiple sectors. In essence, the Commission meeting revealed two countries writing a new chapter in Caspian integration. Its not merely about cargo flows or enterprise networksit's about consolidating regional trust and connectivity, making the Caspian littoral not just significant, but indispensable to Eurasian economic architecture. For Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan and the wider region, the direction is clear: move forward together, build infrastructure, deepen tradenot as an option, but as a necessity in a world rewiring itself around new corridors of stability and growth. 29 July 2025 22:26 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more As the region gets closer to peace, Russia is reverting to a familiar strategy: deploying troops to exert its influence. Russia's increasing military presence in Armenia has stirred considerable speculation in the region. According to Armenian media reports, the Russian 102nd military base in Gyumri has seen a notable influx of military equipment and ammunition in recent weeks. Cargo planes carrying supplies are reportedly landing on a near-daily basis. While Moscow has yet to clarify the purpose of these shipments, multiple theories have emerged ranging from routine resupply to deeper strategic maneuvering. What lies behind this growing military reinforcement? Could this be part of a broader plan to reassert influence in the South Caucasus or even a prelude to shaping Armenias domestic political landscape ahead of next years parliamentary elections? And how might this affect the already fragile peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan? To explore these pressing questions, Azernews spoke to two prominent experts: Heydar Mirza, military expert: Such information has indeed been circulating recently. At first, it came mostly from Ukrainian intelligence, which is normal Ukrainian special services and Western allies are closely monitoring the strategic movements of the Russian Armed Forces. However, I personally do not know how accurate this information is. I think that our relevant bodies and diplomats have more accurate information about this. From the processes under consideration, it is felt that official Baku has taken this information into account and is paying attention, but I do not think that it poses a direct threat to Azerbaijan at the moment. If this issue is true, it will affect us more through things such as influencing the policy and public opinion of Armenia and even, perhaps, through an attempt to overthrow the government, negatively affecting the peace talks, but not directly. I think that the most correct step would be to keep the issue in the spotlight and not to cause unnecessary panic. Undoubtedly, this affects us not directly, but indirectly through Armenia. But this does not exclude the possibility that Russia will also launch direct influence mechanisms on us these are different, for example, the issue of migrants, economic and trade instruments, etc. They have already been launched. Neil Watson, British journalist and political scientist: Russias recent bolstering of its longstanding 102nd military base in Gyumri, Armenia, including reported daily deliveries of military equipment and ammunition, is a development with several possible motivations. Firstly, this may be a move to reassert Russian influence in the South Caucasus. Moscows standing in the region has visibly declined over the past three years, especially following the Azerbaijani victory in the Second Garabagh War, the expulsion of Russia from the Armenian-Azerbaijani peace talks and Russian troops from their so-called peacekeeping role, and Armenias anti-Russian and pro-Western stance under Prime Minister Pashinyan. RussianAzerbaijani relations have reached an all-time low since the downing of an AZAL aircraft on 25 December 2024. Strengthening the Gyumri base could be a form of military signalling, both to local actors and international observers, that Russia intends to remain a dominant security actor. There is also speculation that Russia may be attempting to influence Armenias domestic political scene ahead of next years parliamentary elections. By increasing its military footprint, Moscow could be positioning itself to apply covert or overt pressure on Yerevan to embolden pro-Russian elements within the Armenian political spectrum or diaspora, particularly against Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. The deafening silence by the Armenian government on the arms deliveries suggests a desire to avoid open confrontation. Russia may also be acting to deter further Western engagement in Armenia. The prospect of Western peacekeepers, EU missions, or deeper US-Armenia military ties is deeply unwelcome in Moscow. Russia is sending a message that it retains both the capability and intent to shape developments in this region, where it was previously dominant, which remains important, not least due to its natural resources. This military build-up could significantly complicate the fragile bilateral peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. It risks undermining Armenias credibility as an independent negotiating partner and may embolden hardliners on all sides. Baku will interpret the move as a provocation or an implicit threat. Furthermore, any perception that Russia is preparing for hybrid operations or regime manipulation would heighten political tensions and polarise public opinion within Armenia as the Azerbaijani-Armenian peace negotiations reach their climax, possibly derailing the signing of a peace treaty. 29 July 2025 12:01 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more According to the results of an auction held on the RBP platform for August 2025, 20% of the available capacity of the Trans-Balkan gas corridor has been booked, Azernews informs, citing Ukraines Ministry of Energy reports. The ministry emphasized that, thanks to its efforts, the Trans-Balkan route running through Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, and Moldova has opened up a new channel for natural gas imports into Ukraine. A new joint capacity booking product, launched in cooperation with Ukraines Gas Transmission System Operator, has reduced gas transmission costs along the corridor by 25%. This cost reduction supports greater supply diversification and more efficient use of Ukraines underground gas storage facilities. Ukraines Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk stated that the Trans-Balkan corridor expands Ukraines access to southern supply routes and enables the purchase of gas from new exporting countries. In addition, this route offers attractive opportunities for European traders to utilize Ukraines underground gas storage, she added. According to the ministry, access to capacity bookings along the Trans-Balkan corridor has been available since June 2025. Since then, growing interest from market participants has been observed. Guaranteed daily capacity has been set at 7 million cubic meters until the end of 2024, with work ongoing to increase this to 11.5 million cubic meters per day in 2025. In a major milestone, Ukraine has begun importing Azerbaijani natural gas through the Trans-Balkan route for the first time. Naftogaz Group signed its first agreement for the purchase of Azerbaijani gas with SOCAR Energy Ukraine, a subsidiary of Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR. The gas is being delivered via the BulgariaRomaniaUkraine corridor in a test mode. Although the volumes are currently small, this is a strategically significant step that paves the way for long-term cooperation, said Naftogaz CEO Serhiy Koretskyi. It is another example of Ukraine's commitment to diversifying supply sources and strengthening its energy security. SOCAR Energy Ukraine confirmed that a trial supply agreement was signed with Naftogaz on July 24, 2025. The gas will be transported to Ukraine from Bulgaria. For the first time in history, gas of Azerbaijani origin will be delivered to Ukraine, the company noted. 28 July 2025 22:00 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more The 8th meeting of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on cooperation in the economic and humanitarian spheres between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan was held in Baku, marking another significant step in deepening the strategic partnership between the two Caspian state, Azernews reports. Co-chairman of the Commission, Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov, emphasized during the meeting that Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan enjoy relations based on a solid historical foundation, cultural proximity, and mutual respect between the two fraternal peoples. He underscored that the high level of trust and understanding between the leaders of both countries plays a pivotal role in advancing bilateral cooperation and launching joint initiatives. The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to further expand cooperation across multiple sectors, including economy, trade, energy, transport, and humanitarian fields. Mikayil Jabbarov noted that a broad and dynamic partnership agenda exists between the two countries, strengthened by the implementation of important joint projects. Investment cooperation was highlighted as a key area with strong potential for growth. Currently, 75 companies with Turkmen capital are operating in Azerbaijan, covering sectors such as industry, transport, construction, trade, and services. Both sides expressed interest in further expanding this business presence and deepening mutual investments. The meeting also placed strong emphasis on energy cooperation. Azerbaijan, with its advanced energy infrastructure and export capabilities, expressed readiness to engage in mutually beneficial dialogue on future energy projects. The two countries aim to leverage their strategic geographic positions and resources to enhance regional energy security. A central topic of discussion was connectivity, particularly the revival of the East-West transport corridor and the optimization of the Middle Corridor. Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan have witnessed stable growth in transit transportation volumes. Last year, the volume of transit cargo between the two countries exceeded 2 million tons, and during the first half of this year, it surpassed 1 million tonsunderlining the growing role of both countries as key transit hubs in Eurasia. The Azerbaijani side also shared detailed information on the countrys favorable investment climate, robust economic performance, modern transport and logistics infrastructure, and the prospects offered by the Zangezur Corridor and Alat Free Economic Zone. Turkmen investors were invited to take advantage of these opportunities and actively participate in joint ventures and business initiatives. Nokerguly Atagulyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, affirmed Turkmenistans interest in strengthening bilateral cooperation in a wide range of areas. He expressed confidence in the potential for mutually beneficial collaboration in trade, industry, agriculture, transport, and other fields. The meeting concluded with the signing of a protocol on the outcomes of the 8th session of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission. 29 July 2025 17:24 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more According to monitoring results from cybersecurity firm CYBER ON, 60 web resources operating under the ".az" domain experienced hacker attacks during the first quarter of 2025, Azernews reports. The investigation revealed that 42% of these cyber intrusions were due to improper secure coding practices, while 58% stemmed from incorrect server configurations. Further analysis showed that 18 attacks targeted server vulnerabilities, 13 involved code-level exploits, and in 29 cases, the source and method of the attacks could not be determined. Notably, 6 websites were repeatedly attacked due to unresolved prior security weaknesses, indicating insufficient action by responsible parties to address existing vulnerabilities. Looking at the hosting locations of the compromised websites, 82% were hosted in the United States, 5% in Germany, 5% in Azerbaijan, 4% in Russia, and 4% in the United Kingdom. It was also highlighted that 58% of cyberattacks were linked to misconfigured servers and inadequate segmentation between resources. In this regard, companies using shared hosting services are especially advised to exercise heightened caution and improve their cybersecurity measures. 29 July 2025 13:45 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more A round table on the topic "Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Literary and Cultural Ties" has taken place at Mahmud Kashgari International Foundation, Azernews reports. The event was opened by PhD in History Latifa Mammadova, who stated that the scientific and cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan have an ancient history and great traditions. Latifa Mammadova spoke about the importance of mutual cooperation aimed at further developing these relations and ensuring joint research between the scientific institutions of both countries, as well as the efforts made in this direction by the Mahmud Kashgari International Foundation. The President of the Mahmud Kashgari International Foundation, member of the Azerbaijani Parliament Javanshir Feyziyev, emphasized in his speech that the ideology of Turkism, which is becoming a leading direction in the foreign policy of all Turkic states, is gaining the status of state policy. He pointed out that the program of today's scientific discussion and the list of articles presented in the published collection of scientific studies clearly show that the idea of a common Turkic unity is approached with deep affection within the scientific and literary circles of all Turkic countries, and numerous scholars are striving to contribute to this cause. Javanshir Feyziyev expressed confidence that these relations, founded on science, literature, and culture, will further strengthen the unity and solidarity among Turkic states. The Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Azerbaijan, Bahrom Ashrafkhanov, stated that the common cultural heritage and shared history that unite Turkic-speaking peoples always have a positive influence on the relations between their states. He noted that just as in Uzbekistan, the fraternal and friendly Azerbaijan also maintains very successful cultural, scientific, and literary cooperation with other Turkic states with which it shares the same roots and common national and spiritual values, and that these ties continue to grow every day. Deputy Chairman of the Uzbekistan Writers' Union Gayrat Majid, Professor of the Nizami Ganjavi Uzbek State Pedagogical University Dilarom Adilova, Professor of Alisher Navoi Tashkent State University Gulbahor Ashurova, and writer-playwright Goshgar Narkabil expressed their deep respect for the leadership of the Kashgari Foundation, which facilitates mutual scientific exchanges. They extended their gratitude for the hospitality, sincere and heartfelt attitude, and the attention shown during the event. 29 July 2025 13:24 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more The Azerbaijan Halal Business Forum (AZHAB) will return for its second edition in Baku on October 78, 2025, Azernews reports. Organized under the theme Halal Industry as a Source of Sustainability in a Rapidly Changing World, AZHAB Forum 2025 will serve as a key international platform for fostering dialogue, innovation, and cooperation in trade and investment across the broader region. This years event will feature both a conference and an exhibition, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and investors to explore the expanding potential of the halal economy in driving sustainable development and cross-border collaboration. 29 July 2025 10:11 (UTC+04:00) Qabil Ashirov Read more Deputy Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Araz Azimov met with Irans Ambassador to Baku, Mojtaba Damirchilou, to discuss the current state of bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments, Azernews reports, citing local media outlets. The two officials reviewed recent dynamics in AzerbaijanIran ties, emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation. During the meeting, Ambassador Damirchilou highlighted that relations between Iran and Azerbaijan are developing on the basis of friendship and brotherhood. Both sides underscored the need to maintain cooperation rooted in mutual interests and to further strengthen diplomatic and economic ties. 29 July 2025 12:24 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more The prospects of strengthening cooperation in the field of urban planning between Azerbaijan and Jordan were discussed during a meeting in Baku, Azernews reports, citing the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture. Chairman of the Committee Anar Guliyev met with the Ambassador of Jordan to Azerbaijan, Omar Barakat al-Nahar, where both sides exchanged views on expanding ties in urban development, construction, and settlement planning. They underscored the importance of establishing direct links between relevant institutions in both countries. During the meeting, Guliyev highlighted Azerbaijans ongoing urban development projects, including those aligned with modern, human-centered planning standards in Baku and across the liberated territories. Ambassador al-Nahar praised the scale and quality of construction works in Garabagh and Eastern Zangezur, particularly the efforts to create livable, secure conditions for returning residents. The meeting also touched upon Jordans support for the Declaration on Multisectoral Pathways for Sustainable and Healthy Cities, which was adopted during COP29, hosted by Azerbaijan. Guliyev conveyed appreciation for this support and reaffirmed the countrys commitment to sustainable urban transformation. Concluding the meeting, the Azerbaijani side extended an invitation to Jordan to participate in the 3rd Azerbaijan National Urban Planning Forum and the 13th World Urban Forum, scheduled to be held in Baku from May 1722, 2026. 29 July 2025 15:01 (UTC+04:00) Qabil Ashirov Read more In line with the directive of President Ilham Aliyev, the Great Return to Azerbaijans liberated territories continues at full pace. The latest resettlement caravan has reached the village of Khidirli in the Aghdam district, where 60 families totaling 236 people are returning to their ancestral lands and receiving newly built homes, Azernews reports. The returning families had been temporarily settled in various parts of the country, primarily in dormitories, sanatoriums, and administrative buildings, after being displaced for decades due to the Armenian occupation. This phase of the return process includes families from across Azerbaijan: 22 families from Barda 20 families from Baku 7 families from Aghdam 4 families from Mingachevir and others from Yevlakh, Sumgayit, Absheron, Agjabadi, and Gabala. With this latest group, the total number of resettled residents in Khidirli has reached 130 families comprising 512 people. Khidirli was occupied by Armenian forces in July 1993 during the First Garabagh War. The village was liberated by the Azerbaijani Army on November 20, 2020, as part of the Second Garabagh War. The current wave of returns marks a powerful symbol of national restoration and the resilience of displaced communities who have waited decades to reclaim their homes. 29 July 2025 15:15 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has signed a decree introducing changes to the State Program for the socio-economic development of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic for 2023-2027, Azernews reports. The updated provisions designate several new implementing bodies responsible for various sectors of the program. Under the decree, the State Customs Committee will now be joined by the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads (AAYDA), and Azerbaijan Railways CJSC in leading efforts to accelerate customs procedures and increase freight capacity at border checkpoints in Nakhchivan. The list of institutions tasked with developing various forms of tourism, such as winter, rural, and ecotourism, as well as preparing a comprehensive tourism atlas, has also been expanded. In addition to the State Tourism Agency, the Ministry of Science and Education will now contribute to this effort. Moreover, AAYDA has been integrated into the roster of principal stakeholders, in conjunction with the Cabinet of Ministers of the Autonomous Republic, for the advancement of transportation infrastructure within the region. 29 July 2025 15:31 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has signed a law introducing amendments to legislation governing investment activity on artificial land areas in Azerbaijan, Azernews reports. The changes affect the civil, criminal, and administrative offenses codes, as well as several key laws, including those on information and its protection, state duty, advertising, licenses and permits, the prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing, and the creation of artificial land areas in the section of the Caspian Sea belonging to the Republic of Azerbaijan. As part of the amendments, the Cabinet of Ministers has been instructed to prepare proposals, within six months, for improving legal regulations concerning the organization and operation of casino games, taking into account leading international practices, and to submit them to the President of Azerbaijan. The head of state has also signed a decree ensuring the implementation of the adopted law. 29 July 2025 18:40 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more On July 29, 2025, Azerbaijans Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jeyhun Bayramov, received Saja Farooq Abdullah, the outgoing Representative of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Azerbaijan, marking the conclusion of his diplomatic mission in the country. The meeting, reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the achievements and ongoing cooperation between Azerbaijan and UNICEF, Azernews reports. During the discussions, the sides reviewed key areas of collaboration, including projects focused on child welfare, health, and education within Azerbaijan, as well as humanitarian initiatives abroad. Notably, they emphasized the importance of Azerbaijan's role as a donor in international efforts, such as its initiative to construct a secondary school in Palestine. Minister Bayramov praised Abdullahs contribution to enhancing UNICEF-Azerbaijan cooperation and wished him success in future endeavors. He also stressed Azerbaijans active engagement with the United Nations system and UNICEF, especially in the context of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), and the upcoming 13th World Urban Forum to be held in Baku in 2026. Bayramov also provided an overview of Azerbaijans large-scale post-conflict reconstruction in the liberated territories, detailing efforts to implement smart city and smart village models, and to ensure the safe and dignified return of displaced citizens. In response, Saja Farooq Abdullah expressed satisfaction with the progress made in improving children's health and well-being in Azerbaijan during his tenure and acknowledged the close collaboration with state institutions as a key factor in these achievements. He thanked the Azerbaijani government for its support and expressed optimism about the continued growth of UNICEF-Azerbaijan relations. The meeting concluded with an exchange of views on a range of mutual interests and future areas of cooperation. 29 July 2025 17:47 (UTC+04:00) On July 28, 2025, the final presentation ceremony of the first volume of the book titled "The Heritage of Western Azerbaijan" was held in the city of Nakhchivan, organized by the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic Representative Office of the Western Azerbaijan Community, Azernews reports. The event has commenced with a tribute to the cherished memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the martyrs, followed by the performance of the National Anthem. The event was opened with an introductory speech by Rector of Nakhchivan State University and the Representative of the Western Azerbaijan Community in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, Elbrus Isayev. In his remarks, he stated the invaluable role of the publication in preserving historical memory and contributing meaningfully to academic research. He noted that the long-standing efforts by Armenians to establish a monoethnic state-through acts of genocide and deportation against the Azerbaijani people-have ultimately failed, as the systematic destruction of the cultural and historical heritage of Azerbaijanis forcibly displaced from their ancestral lands in Western Azerbaijan has been halted. Isayev also highlighted that, in line with the instructions by President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev during a meeting with a group of intellectuals from Western Azerbaijan in December 2022, a national concept for the return to Western Azerbaijan has been adopted, and concrete measures have since been initiated in this direction. The publication of the book titled "The Heritage of Western Azerbaijan" forms an integral part of this national concept, serving as a fundamental research work that substantiates our history with facts, documents, and cultural examples. The first volume of the book, which is planned to comprise five reports, focuses on 201 of the more than 700 Azerbaijani cemeteries that existed in Western Azerbaijan until 1991 and are now reduced to ruins. It provides detailed accounts of both their former and current conditions. The volume also employs military-topographic maps, satellite imagery, and modern methodological analyses to monitor the cemeteries in the region. As a scholarly compilation dedicated to one of the most critical national ideological issues - the heritage of Western Azerbaijan - the books publication in three languages further enhances its international significance. Elbrus Isayev also highlighted that in 2023 and 2024, as a key organizer, the University, participated in the "Return to Western Azerbaijan" festival-congress held in Nakhchivan. Organized by the higher education institution, the festival showcased folkloric examples, culinary traditions, musical and yalli (traditional group dance) performances, exhibitions, and literary-artistic compositions originating from Western Azerbaijan. Within the framework of the festival-congress, book presentations were held, and to this day, the university regularly hosts such events where the "Return to Western Azerbaijan" concept remains a central focus. Notably, the "The Heritage of Western Azerbaijan" book will serve as a significant foundational resource in the teaching of selected Western Azerbaijan-themed courses at Nakhchivan State University. Regular meetings between students and intellectuals of Western Azerbaijani descent are organized at NSU, along with screenings of various documentary films. Additionally, the First Forum of Western Azerbaijani Youth was established at the university, facilitating meetings between young people, the Communitys leadership, and prominent intellectuals. Elbrus Isayev emphasized that under the leadership of the Victorious Supreme Commander Ilham Aliyev, following the 44-day Patriotic War, which secured Azerbaijans territorial integrity and sovereignty, the Azerbaijani people firmly believe that Western Azerbaijanis will peacefully, safely, and with dignity return to their historic homeland. Huseyn Safarov, Deputy Minister of Justice of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and Acting Minister, delivered a speech outlining the essence and purpose of the publication. He emphasized that this work, serving as a crucial source for conveying Azerbaijans realities to future generations, not only sheds light on the nations history but also establishes the foundations of international legal accountability. Safarov further asserted that Armenian separatists will be held accountable for their acts of vandalism committed against Azerbaijanis. Gunay Rzayeva, Ombudsman of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, emphasized that the presented book provides documented evidence of the ethnic cleansing policy against Western Azerbaijanis, as well as the severe and systematic violations of human rights principles, international legal norms, and conventions. She stressed that ensuring the right of return should be central to international efforts aimed at restoring justice, and achieving peace and reconciliation. Rzayeva further highlighted the importance of continuing joint efforts to uncover historical truths and communicate them to the international community. Faig Safarov, Head of Department and Chief Legal Advisor at the Prosecutors Office of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, stated that preserving the heritage of Western Azerbaijan and compensating for the material and moral damages inflicted by Armenian aggressors is a historical imperative. He emphasized that these publications not only contribute to the restoration of historical justice but also serve to preserve the rich heritage of Western Azerbaijan in the collective memory of future generations based on factual evidence. Such scholarly works should be widely presented to the international community. Safarov added that the return to Western Azerbaijan and the restoration of our cultural heritage in the historic Azerbaijani lands will undoubtedly be realized. The event concluded with the screening of a video presentation on the "The Heritage of Western Azerbaijan" publication series. It should be noted that prior to this event, the initial presentation of the first volume of "The Heritage of Western Azerbaijan" was held in the city of Nakhchivan. Thereafter, the book was widely presented to the public in the districts of Ordubad, Kangarli, Babak, Sadarak, Sharur, Shahbuz, and Julfa. Citizens of Western Azerbaijani origin also participated in the district-level presentations. Elbrus Isayev called upon compatriots from Western Azerbaijan to actively collaborate with researchers and contribute materials and memories from their personal archives for publication. He also invited them to engage closely with the Western Azerbaijan Research Center established at Nakhchivan State University. 29 July 2025 17:03 (UTC+04:00) Full digital access to all news for 1 year Full digital access to all news for 6 months Full digital access to all news for 3 months Full digital access to all news for 1 month Find the plan that suits you best. Romania has significantly increased its crude oil imports from Azerbaijan in the first half of 2025, according to the State Customs Committee, Azernews reports. Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention. Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis. By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more. Subscribe You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper Thank you! 29 July 2025 09:00 (UTC+04:00) Chinas government will offer subsidies to parents to the tune of $500 per child under the age of three per year, Beijings state media said Monday, as the worlds second most populous nation faces a looming demographic crisis, Azernews reports, citing Arab News. The countrys population has declined for three consecutive years, with United Nations demography models predicting it could fall from 1.4 billion today to 800 million by 2100. The nationwide subsidies apply retroactively from January 1, Beijings state broadcaster CCTV said, citing a decision by the ruling Communist Party and the State Council, Chinas cabinet. This is a major nationwide policy aimed at improving public wellbeing, CCTV said. It provides direct cash subsidies to families across the country, helping to reduce the burden of raising children, it added. There were just 9.54 million births in China last year, half the number than in 2016, the year it ended its one-child policy, which was in place for more than three decades. The population declined by 1.39 million last year, and China lost its crown as the worlds most populous country to India in 2023. Marriage rates are also at record low levels, with many young couples put off having babies by high child-rearing costs and career concerns. Analysts warned that the subsidies alone would not reverse Chinas population decline, nor boost its long-standing domestic spending slump. The sums involved are too small to have a near-term impact on the birth rate or consumption, Zichun Huang, China economist at Capital Economics, said. But the policy does mark a major milestone in terms of direct handouts to households and could lay the groundwork for more fiscal transfers in future. Many local governments have already rolled out subsidies to encourage childbirth. In March, Hohhot, the capital of Chinas northern Inner Mongolia region, began offering residents up to 100,000 yuan ($14,000) per newborn for couples with three or more children, while first and second children will be eligible for 10,000 and 50,000 yuan subsidies. In Shenyang, in northeastern Liaoning province, local authorities give families who have a third child 500 yuan per month until the child turns three. Hangzhou, in eastern Zhejiang province, offers a one-time payment of 25,000 yuan to couples who have a third child. More than 20 provincial-level administrations in the country now offer childcare subsidies, according to official data. Premier Li Qiang vowed to provide childcare subsidies during the governments annual work report in March. Chinas shrinking population is also aging fast, sparking worries about the future of the countrys pension system. There were nearly 310 million people aged 60 and over in 2024. N. Oregon Coast Salt Marsh Hike, Clamming and Music / Dance Events at Netarts Published 07/27/25 at 5:45 p.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff (Oceanside, Oregon) Things will be busy in the Oceanside / Netarts area of the north Oregon coast in early August, as Friends of Netarts Bay WEBS and others present three major events. One is a musical celebration while two are in-depth environmental experiences this August, focused on Oregon coast ecosystems and sustainable practices. (Photo courtesy WEBS) On August 11, WEBS teams up with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) for a hands-on clamming workshop at Netarts Bay. Designed for both newcomers and experienced clammers, the event offers expert instruction on identifying clam species, understanding bay clam populations, and practicing sustainable shellfish harvesting. Stewardship Coordinator Marina Dreeben describes it as an opportunity to walk away with your catch limit of clams and a whole lot of knowledge. Participants will learn alongside ODFW staff and WEBS volunteers, gaining insight into estuarine habitats while collecting clams. Registration is required, and spaces fill quickly. Visit www.netartsbaywebs.org/events to sign up or join the waitlist. Cape Lookout State Park becomes the backdrop for a celebration of culture and nature on August 3. Huehca Omeyocan returns with traditional Aztec-inspired music and dance, performing colorful, symbolic rituals that highlight the group's spiritual connection to the land. Co-hosted by Oregon State Parks, OSU Extension, and Oregon Shores, the day also includes nature activities and environmental education. Events begin at 11 a.m., and registration is encouraged. Full details and registration are available at www.netartsbaywebs.org/events. On August 5, WEBS presents a free two-part salt marsh exploration program beginning at 9:00 a.m. The day starts with an indoor presentation on the plants and ecology of Oregon's coastal salt marshes, followed by a guided walking tour with biologist and former WEBS board member Jim Young. Attendees will discover vegetation succession from forest to dunes and explore how native plants adapt to salty, coastal conditions. This field-based walking tour includes an easy to moderate 1.5 to 3-mile hike through muddy, wet sand, and loose sand areas, organizers said. Trails may be covered by brush. This program is best suited for participants 12 years and older who are comfortable walking in these environments. It is the Oregon coast, after all, so participants should bring appropriate gear, including long pants, closed-toe shoes or boots, weather-resistant clothing, and insect protection. Transportation between locations is required, and a $10 Oregon State Parks parking pass may be needed. WEBS encourages attendees with accessibility needs to contact them in advance for accommodations. This event is part of the Explore Nature series, which highlights the conservation work and natural beauty of Tillamook County. Full details and registration are available at www.netartsbaywebs.org/events. Hotels in Oceanside - Where to eat - Oceanside Maps and Virtual Tours Hotels in Pacific City - Where to eat - Pacific City Maps and Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW OREGON COAST HOTEL REVIEWS (hit refresh to see different reviews) Oregon Coast Thanksgiving? What Vacation Rentals Still Open in Rockaway Beach Big kitchens for the big day by the beach. Rockaway Beach hotels, Rockaway Beach rentals, lodging news, Manzanita hotel reviews Retro Music Review: Yes' Relayer a Surreal Masterpiece In '74, Yes released one of their most joyeously complex works Six Historic Inns of the Oregon Coast With a Strong Time Travel Vibe Serious charm in Astoria, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Oceanside, Lincoln City, Newport. Logding reviews, hotels Historic North Oregon Coast Inn Gets New Life as Off-the-Beaten-Path Forest G... Nehalem River Inn is nearly 100 years but has a new look. Manzanita hotel reviews, Manzanita lodging More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Washington Coast / Oregon Coast Articles (stories are random: hit reload to see different articles) Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted James Boasberg, a politically corrupt ultra-partisan Obama judge, has been one of the key players in the Judicial coup d'etat by the Judicial Wing of the Democrat Party against President Trump. Now, in a major push back, US Attorney General Pam Bondi has formally filed a judicial misconduct complaint against Boasberg. The complaint, filed with the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia alleges that Boasberg's statements and actions "have undermined the integrity and impartiality of the Judiciary." Unfortunately, the judge to whom this complaint goes is also an Obama judge, so there is little likelihood of any firm action at that level. Bondi has recently been calling out the corrupt leftwing Obama and Biden judges and has minced no words in doing so. She blasted "rogue judges" when she outmaneuvered the mostly Democrat district court judges in New Jersey over the office of US Attorney for that state. These despicable political hack judges NEED to be called out for their abuse of power for political purposes. https://redstate.com/bobhoge/2025/07/28/misconduct-ag-bondi-files-official-complaint-against-anti-trump-judge-boasberg-n2192200 https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14950779/pam-bondi-anti-trump-judge-james-boasberg-misconduct.html https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/07/bondi-files-misconduct-complaint-against-boasberg/ https://dailycaller.com/2025/07/29/donald-trump-pam-bondi-chad-mizelle-james-boasberg-administration-federal-judge-misconduct/ I miss being on the tools: Meet the NI tiling chief who has just secured his biggest contract yet Peter Trainors firm has just won a contract worth millions for work in London, but as he tells James McNaney, he still yearns for his hands-on tiling days Trainor Stone and Tile managing director Peter Trainor and Michael Halliday, senior quantity surveyor James McNaney Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 08:00 Peter Trainor, founder and managing director of Trainor Stone and Tile, has just secured the biggest project of his career. UK 6.3 million cancer cases could be diagnosed between now and 2040 report The Education Minister has paid tribute to the remarkable former principal of Dromore High School following his passing. John Wilkinson had been in teaching for more than three decades, 19 years of which were spent at Dromore High School. Mr Wilkinson was awarded an OBE in 2013 for his contributions to education in the Queens Birthday Honours List. While principal, he helped lead the Co Down school to recognition for academic excellence and it was designated as a Specialist School for Science. Education Minister Paul Givan paid his respects to the senior education figure who dedicated his life to serving others and shaping the lives of young people across Northern Ireland. The DUP MLA said: Throughout his long and distinguished career, John embodied the very best of our education system professionalism, compassion, and a deep commitment to excellence. He approached every role with humility, wisdom, and a quiet strength that earned the respect and admiration of colleagues, pupils, and the wider community. In recognition of his outstanding contribution to education, John was awarded an OBE in the 2013 Queens Birthday Honours List a richly deserved honour that reflected the esteem in which he was held. John's legacy is one of quiet but profound influence a legacy that will be felt for generations. A devout Christian who served as Clerk of Session in First Dromore Presbyterian he will be remembered not only for his many achievements, but for the values he lived by and inspired in others. My thoughts are with his family and all who knew and respected him at this difficult time, especially Hazel, Jonathan and Joanna." Beyond the school gates, Mr Wilkinson was also on the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) where he was Chair of the Audit and Risk Assurance Committee and Interim Vice-Chair of Council. Mr Wilkinson was also a Non-Executive Director with the Southern Health and Social Care Trust. The Co Down man is survived by his wife, Hazel, children, Jonathan and Joanne, and grandchildren Oscar, Darcie, Maisie and Kasie. Plans for the Mourne Gateway gondola project are in trouble again A councils hopes for a 50m cable car system in the Mourne Mountains are hanging by a thread after its plans were rejected by a Stormont minister. In May, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council revealed plans to relocate its Mourne Mountain Gateway project to the village of Rostrevor after the National Trust withdrew its support for the original Newcastle site. It is understood that the council was keen to retain funding from the 30m Belfast Region City Deal (BRCD) by ensuring the project goes ahead, albeit elsewhere. However, that appears less likely to happen now after the Department for Agriculture, the Environment and Rural Affairs said it had serious concerns about the potential impact the project would have on environmentally sensitive areas. The department added that it is not in a position to support the councils proposal for Rostrevor. The statement said Minister Andrew Muir has serious concerns about the potential impact the project would have on environmentally sensitive areas, existing woodlands, ancient trees, wildlife habitats, biodiversity and the aesthetic and social value of the local landscape. Given these concerns, the department is not in a position to support the councils proposal for the project to be constructed at Rostrevor Forest and Forest Service has accordingly conveyed this position to the council. Alliance Mournes Councillor Jill Truesdale welcomed the Ministers intervention. She said: Im pleased to hear that the proposal to install a gondola in Kilbroney Forest Park in Rostrevor has been rejected by DAERA. Rostrevor Forest is renowned for its scenic landscapes and exceptional natural environment. Installing a gondola in this location would not only pose a threat to the wildlife and the surrounding environment, but it would also detract from the natural beauty that many people cherish. Alliance, alongside many local residents, has been strongly opposed to this project and has consistently raised concerns due to significant economic and environmental issues associated with the plan. There has been insufficient consideration of the potential impact the project could have on environmentally sensitive areas. I am pleased that Minister Muir has decided to halt the installation of the gondola in Rostrevor, citing serious concerns about its consequences for the local landscape if the project were to proceed. Grammy nominated hymnwriters Keith & Kristyn Getty are set to return Home for Christmas for a one night only show at the SSE Arena in Belfast. The internationally renowned husband and wife duo are promising fans a spectacular festive night out when their much-celebrated Christmas concert kicks off on Monday December, 22. Its part of three UK performances which includes dates in Glasgow and London. "Home for Christmas is a vibrant celebration of the Christmas story, blending beloved traditional carols, Celtic heritage, and Nashville flair, organisers said. Perfect for the whole family, this will be a joyful and powerful evening of music, worship, and celebration in the heart of Belfast. The announcement follows the overwhelming success of two sold-out shows in Belfast last year which drew audiences from across NI and beyond. The couple will be joined on stage by the choir and orchestra ensemble known as New Irish Arts in addition to a host of virtuoso instrumentalists and special guests. The combination of top-tier musicianship promises to create a rich and layered soundscape that brings new life to both well-known carols and original compositions. Keith and Kristyn Getty, originally from Lisburn and Newtownabbey respectively, have become leading figures in the global hymn-writing movement and established themselves as the biggest names in the genre since relocating to Nashville. Keith previously told the Belfast Telegraph that the couple decided on the move in order to start a family. Keith & Kristyn Getty returning Home for Christmas with Belfast show this December. We just loved the atmosphere there with different musicians and types of music that feeds into that creative work, he explained. "Nashville is Belfast west, it really is, if anywhere in the world is and the Christmas show came out of moving to Nashville. "We got more interested in the Irish heritage, and the Scots-Irish heritage, because everyone was fascinated because they all feel a sense of tie to Scotland and Ireland and the music and the history that happened there." Their creative flare has reshaped modern worship music with songs that are considered to be both theologically rich and musically engaging. In Christ Alone is widely regarded as one of the most significant hymns of the 21st century and is sung in churches across the world every week. Keith & Kristyn Getty returning Home for Christmas with Belfast show this December. BB guns discovered in the ashes of a fire in west Belfast by young people Over the past two decades, the Gettys have taken their music to some of the most prestigious stages internationally, including Carnegie Hall in New York, the Kennedy Centre in Washington, and the Sydney Opera House. Their album, Confessio Irish American Roots, received a nomination at the 65th Grammy Awards in 2023. The artists annual Christmas tours in the US have become a staple of the holiday season and draw thousands of fans each year. Now, with Home for Christmas returning to Belfast, local audiences will once again have the opportunity to experience a concert that blends artistry, tradition, and worship all in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. The upcoming gig forms part of a three-date UK tour, which will also include performances at SEC Armadillo in Glasgow and the iconic Royal Albert Hall in London. The SSE Arena show will be the tours grand finale and the only Northern Ireland date making it a must-see concert for devoted fans or anyone discovering them for the first time. Home for Christmas promises to be an unforgettable evening in celebration of faith, hope, and the joy of Christmas. Tickets go on sale this Friday at 10am and given the rapid sell-out of last years events, early booking is strongly advised. For full details and updates, visit www.gettymusic.com. Irelands leaders have condemned an appalling attack on a young Garda officer in Dublin city. The Garda Representative Association said a young member of the force suffered a quite terrifying and unprovoked attack and paid tribute to his colleagues for their bravery. The incident happened on Tuesday evening during a routine, high-visibility patrol in the Capel Street area of Dublin 1, gardai said. Later, the spokesperson said the injured member is recovering well at a hospital in Dublin and is expected to be discharged. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content A male, aged in his 20s, who was arrested at the scene, is being held at a Garda station in the Dublin region. Taoiseach Micheal Martin and Justice Minister Jim OCallaghan both condemned the attack and said their thoughts are with the garda. Appalled by the shocking unprovoked attack on a garda on duty on Capel Street in Dublin this evening, Mr Martin said in a post on the social media network X. My thoughts are with the injured garda and his colleagues at this time. I wish him a quick recovery. I urge anyone with information to contact the gardai. Tanaiste Simon Harris said there should be zero tolerance for such attacks. An appalling and utterly unacceptable attack on a member of An Garda Siochana in Dublin tonight, he posted on X. I wish him a speedy recovery. There must and will be zero tolerance for such appalling acts of violence. Thinking of the garda, his family and his colleagues tonight. Assistant Commissioner for the Dublin Metropolitan Region, Paul Cleary, said such assaults will never be accepted or tolerated. I speak for all of An Garda Siochana in Dublin when I say that our thoughts are very much with our colleague who is recovering tonight, he said. This evenings unprovoked assault is indicative of what gardai can face when they go out on duty to keep people safe. There is not always video footage or content shared online, but we experience it in our day-to-day duties and its a difficult aspect of the job. Assaults of this nature will never be acceptable or tolerated. Our colleague has our full, steadfast support and the range of welfare services will be extended to him when he feels up to it. He added: The suspect involved in this incident has been apprehended and is in Garda custody. I want to assure the public that there is no ongoing threat to their safety in the city. Assistant Commissioner for the Dublin Metropolitan Region Paul Cleary (Brian Lawless/PA) Gardai said welfare services have been offered and put in place for the injured member and his colleagues. The Garda Representative Association said a young probationary member was subject to a quite terrifying and unprovoked attack. They added that only for his bravery and that of his colleagues this incident could have resulted in far worse and unthinkable consequences. Our job is tough. Our members continually run towards situations that others must flee from. But there is never, ever, an excuse for being exposed to such acts of random violence, they said. The attacks being visited upon our members is shocking and we will never accept that being assaulted is part of our job. More needs to be done to create a safer working environment where the risk of assault is reduced. Sinn Fein president Mary-Lou McDonald condemned the incident. Dreadful news that a garda was brutally attacked on Capel Street earlier this evening while working to keep the people of Dublin safe, she said in a post on X. There must be zero tolerance for such disgraceful behaviour. I wish the garda a speedy recovery and commend his colleagues for their quick response. A US citizen accused of attempting to shoot a stranger dead has suggested the perpetrator was another American woman who sounded similar to her, used the same phone and wore the same sort of trainers. Aimee Betro, 45, told jurors that it was all just a terrible coincidence that she was around the corner from the scene of the attempted assassination six minutes later. Betro, who denies conspiracy to murder, is alleged to have flown into Britain and taken part in a plot orchestrated by co-conspirators Mohammed Aslam, 56, and his son Mohammed Nabil Nazir, 31, to attack a rival family, in September 2019. Aimee Betro is giving evidence at Birmingham Crown Court (PA) Betro, from West Allis in Wisconsin, told jurors on Tuesday that she did not know there had been an attempted killing when she left the UK two days afterwards. Prosecutors allege Betro hid her identity using a niqab when she tried to shoot Sikander Ali at point blank range outside his home in Measham Grove, Yardley, Birmingham, but the gun jammed, allowing him to flee. Birmingham Crown Court has heard Aslam and Nazir, who were jailed last year for their part in the assassination plot, were involved in a feud with Mr Alis father, Aslat Mahumad. Addressing the evidence against her in chronological order during questioning by defence barrister Paul Lewis KC, Betro claimed she was in Birmingham city centre at the time of the attempted assassination, and a follow-up shooting at the intended victims house hours later. She also maintained that a woman described as having an American accent and being small and fat, who bought a vehicle linked to the plot, was not her. Betro went on to claim that she did not have possession of a gun at any time during the night of September 7 into the early hours of September 8, when three shots were fired at a house in Measham Grove after a woman arrived there in a taxi. During cross-examination of Betro, prosecutor Tom Walkling KC asked her a series of questions about what she claimed the different American woman had done at about the time of the attempted murder and the follow-up incident. Answering questions from Mr Walkling, the defendant said that the other American woman had called Mr Mahumad, using a phone Betro had bought. Betro claimed she had not bought a Mercedes car used in the plot, then agreed with Mr Walkling when he asked if that was a different American woman as well? Mr Walkling then asked: And you didnt try to murder Sikander Ali that evening? Betro said: No. Mr Walkling continued: But you were around the corner six minutes later? Betro answered: Yes. The graphic design and childhood education graduate, who spent five years living in Armenia before her arrest in January this year, confirmed to Mr Walkling that it was her case that the other American woman who had fired shots at a property in Measham Grove in the early hours and was using your phone and wearing shoes like yours. Mr Walkling then asked Its all just a terrible coincidence is it? and Betro replied: Yes. The prosecutor said: So there must be, on your case, another American woman in Birmingham at the same time as you, who knew Mr Nazir, who sounded similar to you, who used the cheap phone that you bought, who called (a taxi firm) on your own telephone, and who wore at the very least the same sort of Converse trainers you had. Betro answered: Yes. Mr Walkling continued: This other American woman we are describing told a taxi (driver) she wanted to go back to the Rotunda. So was this mysterious American woman who shared so many characteristics with you also staying at the Rotunda? It does sound rather like you doesnt it? Wearing a black top, glasses and with her hair in space buns, Betro replied: No. She also claimed she had no reason or motive to carry out the shooting and did not know the intended victims family. Betro told the jury on Monday that she flew into Britain to celebrate her birthday and attend a boat party, having met Nazir on a dating app and having previously travelled to the UK to meet him. The defendant also denies possessing a self-loading pistol and a charge of fraudulently evading the prohibition on importing ammunition. The trial continues. The 38-year-old's last known point of contact was on July 17 The brother of a Belfast man who has been missing in France for 12 days is to meet with British officials as they begin their search for him. Robert Kincaid, from the Tullycarnet area, was due to arrive in Dublin on the evening of July 17, but never boarded his flight. The 38-year-old oil rig worker was returning from a stint working at a west African site in Benin and was set to board his connecting flight from Charles De Gaulle airport in Paris. Louis Kincaid, Roberts brother, said that he had also previously worked in central Africa. His last known point of contact is understood to have been a video call with a friend made from a bar in the airport. Louis told this newspaper: I think he was in the airport bar having a chat basically. As far as Im aware, there was nothing bad said, there was nothing suspicious said. They were just having a bit of craic over the phone. Hes a very sociable person, but he could have met someone in the airport bar we just dont know. The 38-year-old's last known point of contact was on July 17 A friend video-called Robert again, although a stranger answered the phone instead. It looked like [they were in] a tin corrugated roof building. They basically said the phone [battery] was on 0% in broken English, Louis explained. The second and final call made to Roberts phone was picked up by a woman, but the caller was unable to make out what was said before the line was cut off and has been uncontactable ever since. Messages to Robert on WhatsApp and other social media are also no longer being delivered. Robert Kincaid News Catch Up - Monday 28th July Louis added: Were in the dark. We went through the PSNI. We went through the embassy theyve done a fantastic job. I have to give credit to the two girls who are working there now. Were trying to get some details, but there are a lot of restrictions with GDPR regarding missing people and its just roadblocks. After contacting the PSNI, Louis was directed towards the French authorities, but has found difficulty making contact from Northern Ireland. Louis and a family friend will fly to Paris on Wednesday to meet with British embassy officials who will help the pair liaise with local police. Theres going to be someone meeting us. The Foreign Office has organised someone to meet us, its someone in the airport, said Louis. Theyre going to help us with translation, and were going to file an official missing persons report in Paris, and then were just going to be going about, putting posters all around places. Louis added: He doesnt have any contacts in France, but he is a very sociable person, he would make friends with anyone. He explained that his family is growing increasingly worried as time goes on. Louis said: Theyre holding together, its just the unknown. Mums not really sleeping at the moment. It is starting to get to her as the days go on. The Paris police have been contacted for comment. Umm al-Khair is in Masafer Yatta, the focal point of the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land, which chronicles the Palestinians effort to remain on their land in the face of violence and the expansion of Jewish settlements considered illegal by most of the international community (Maya Alleruzzo/AP) A Palestinian man who filmed parts of an Oscar-winning documentary has been shot dead in the occupied West Bank, according to witnesses. A radical Israeli settler accused of shooting activist Awdah Hathaleen during a confrontation with unarmed Palestinians was filmed firing a pistol during the incident in Umm al-Khair, a village that has long seen conflict between the two communities. Witnesses say Yinon Levi, who was previously under US sanctions that were lifted by the Trump administration, killed Mr Hathaleen, who was also an English teacher and father of three. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content Umm al-Khair is in Masafer Yatta, the focal point of the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land, which chronicles the Palestinians effort to remain on their land in the face of violence and the expansion of Jewish settlements considered illegal by most of the international community. Mr Hathaleen, whose footage appears in the documentary, was outspoken about life under Israeli occupation. His death sparked an outpouring of grief from family, international activists and rights groups. The Israeli co-director of the documentary, Yuval Abraham, described Mr Hathaleen in an Instagram post as a remarkable activist who helped us film No Other Land in Masafer Yatta. The film, which won the Oscar for best documentary feature film in March, had two Israeli and two Palestinian co-directors. The Israeli military said an Israeli civilian had opened fire toward terrorists who hurled rocks at Israelis. Israeli police said they detained eight people including an Israeli for questioning on suspicion of reckless conduct resulting in death and unlawful use of a firearm, five Palestinians and two foreigners. Police said on Tuesday a court had denied their request to extend the detention of the Israeli and ordered the suspects release to house arrest. The police did not identify the suspect, but Israeli media ran photos of a smiling Levi inside a courthouse on Tuesday. Meanwhile, residents said four of the five arrested Palestinians remained in Israeli custody. They took the other half of my heart, Mr Hathaleens brother-in-law, Tariq Hathaleen, wrote on Instagram. You were always telling the story, and now youve become the story. The encounter in which witnesses said Awdah Hathaleen was shot was filmed in footage obtained by The Associated Press. The video shows Levi waving a pistol during a stand-off with a group of Palestinians on a dusty road, a yellow excavator visible in the background. Witnesses said Levi was there to protect the excavator, which had rolled down from a nearby settlement and damaged Palestinian property earlier in the day. The extended Hathaleen family and activists gathered at a mourning tent on Tuesday. Israeli troops arrived later, ordering all foreign passport holders and media to leave, saying the area was a closed military zone. Umm Al-Khair was founded in the 1950s by traditionally nomadic Bedouin, who settled there after being uprooted from the Negev desert during the 1948 war surrounding Israels creation. Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Middle East war. Last year, Israels military tore down a quarter of the homes in Umm Al-Khair, saying they had been built without Israeli authorisation. On the day he died, Mr Hathaleen sent an urgent call to his network of activists and reporters. The settlers are working behind our houses and the worst (is) that they tried to cut the main water pipe for the community, he wrote. If you can reach people like the congress, courts, whatever, please do everything. If they cut the pipe the community here will literally be without any drop of water. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department workers at the scene of the incident in Miami (WSVN-TV via AP) Two children have died and two more are in critical condition after a barge struck their boat and sent them overboard during a sailing camp in Miami on Monday, authorities said. All six people on the sailing boat were pulled from the water by emergency services, and four children were taken to hospital where two were pronounced dead on arrival, said Petty Officer 3rd Class Nicholas Strasburg, a spokesman for the US Coast Guard. The six one adult and five children were in their last week of the sailing camp for youngsters aged seven to 15, according to the Miami Yacht Club. The entire MYC family is devastated by this terrible tragedy, said Emily Copeland, the commodore of the yacht club, in a statement. Two of the six who were rescued were in good condition, Mr Strasburg said. Last year, there were more than 550 deaths in recreational boating in the US, of which 43 were caused by vessels crashing into each other, according to coast guard statistics. The boats collided near Star Island, which runs between Miami Beach and Miami in Biscayne Bay, said Arielle Callender, a regional spokesperson for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, in a statement. Local television stations showed first responders, some in scuba diving gear, in boats around what appears to be a barge. The coast guard is investigating the crash. A lop-sided emergency brake compromise: Why EU-US trade deal isnt being universally celebrated in NI and beyond The new accord puts a 15% tariff on the blocs imports into the US but that isnt necessarily mean good news for anyone, writes Margaret Canning There could be a silver lining in the new EU-US trade deal for Northern Ireland producers of whiskey, but not if a 'zero for zero' side deal is agreed Margaret Canning Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 13:00 The EU-US 15% tariff deal may well have averted a trade war, but that doesnt mean its been greeted enthusiastically in Northern Ireland, the Republic or indeed, anywhere in Europe. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. Jane Kaufman is Community Voices Editor at The Berkshire Eagle. She can be reached at jkaufman@berkshireeagle.com or 413-496-6125. You are the owner of this article. In the 1930s, Pittsfields punitive approach to homelessness and panhandlers didn't seem to have achieved much to alleviate anyone's addiction, mental health issues, the economics of a Great Depression, or the housing shortages that plagued Berkshire cities. PITTSFIELD After months of public debate, a proposed ordinance banning people from sleeping and creating temporary shelters on all public property in the city will move forward. In front of a packed audience, the City Councils Ordinance and Rules Committee voted 3-2 on Monday night to advance the revised ordinance to the next full City Council, with Councilors Kathy Amuso, Rhonda Serre and Peter White voting in favor, and Patrick Kavey and Dina Lampiasi opposing. The vote came after a lengthy public hearing at which residents, business owners, advocates and city officials voiced strong opinions on both sides of the issue. The ordinance will go before the full council on Aug. 12. Framed as a response to concerns from downtown business owners, Mayor Peter Marchetti's May proposal would ban sleeping and temporary sheltering on public property. But the ordinance has since faced major pushback from advocates, who argue it penalizes poverty. The small businesses in this city drive our economy, Serre said. Weve got to help them as much as theyve got to help us. The version passed Monday no longer includes a previously proposed three-day camping limit on private property and provides violators with the option to complete community service at $25 per hour in lieu of paying a fine. It also removes language that directly criminalized unhoused individuals, eliminates a clause that would have penalized those who provided supplies to people camping, and shifts enforcement authority to the Board of Health. Still, the room was filled with concern. These people thats all they have, Lampiasi said. And were telling them: You cant sleep in our parks. You cant sleep downtown, where there are cameras and you wont be raped, beaten or have terrible things happen to you. Advocates said the ordinance does nothing to address root causes of homelessness and urged the city to instead pursue long-term solutions, such as more housing, outreach teams and public hygiene facilities. Enforcement-only tactics don't solve homelessness; they just move people from one place to another, drive up public cost and make people suffer more, said Fernando Leon, a community organizer for Berkshire Interfaith Organizing. We need housing that people can afford, safe, stable homes let's choose care over criminalization. Although the ordinance no longer explicitly criminalizes homelessness, many speakers argued that the penalties it imposes would still disproportionately harm unhoused individuals. Just fines and just community service can only be just that if you have resources," said city resident Maizy Broderick Scarpa. "If that $15 is what you're going to spend on food or go to something else, that's actually a crisis financially, physically and emotionally. Several business owners also spoke in support of the ordinance. Local attorney Jesse Cook-Dubin argued that it would allow police to address disruptive behavior, such as public defecation and sleeping in doorways. It's not homelessness that's the problem; it's the behavior, he said. "Our police are saying that the city code does not give them the tools that they need to keep our city safe, and that this is one step toward getting them that help. Others, like Hotel on North owner David Tierney, urged officials to work collaboratively. You elected officials are here to find common ground for everyone in the city of Pittsfield, not just the small-business owners, not just the homeless advocates, but for everyone, he said. I'm asking you, please do your job; find a legitimate solution to this problem. Lampiasi criticized the ordinances vagueness, especially in how terms like temporary camping in vehicles would be enforced. Police would determine that on a case-by-case basis, said Devon Grierson, the city's solicitor. She also questioned the legality and logistics of the proposed community service alternative to fines. I think there are legitimate concerns about ADA compliance and what type of work this would actually entail, Lampiasi said. Its unclear what this program looks like, and I dont think we should move forward until we have a better understanding of it. Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter NORTH ADAMS A new wrinkle has emerged in the ongoing troubles at Harriman-and-West Airport, as city councilors seek to confirm whether the airport is in compliance with grant assurances tied to millions of dollars in state and federal funding. At Tuesdays City Council meeting, Councilor Andrew Fitch asked the city to provide a definitive answer on its compliance status, citing concerns that the airports prolonged instability including the absence of a functioning Airport Commission providing its oversight at the facility could put funding at risk. Weve heard so much about the airport and the potential of it being out of compliance for many months, Fitch said. And I would love to learn the facts, and put those facts out there publicly, so we can make adjustments if needed, and we can also stop talking about this if needed. Grant assurances are legal obligations that airport sponsors in this case, the city of North Adams agree to when they accept public funding through state and federal grants. In providing a grant, for example, the Federal Aviation Administration would want assurances that an airport facility is maintained in good condition. Grant compliance questioned Michael Milazzo, speaking during the public comment period, reiterated his longstanding claim that the city is out of compliance with grant requirements. Youre not in compliance with grant assurances for multiple millions of dollars, Milazzo told councilors. Before making his remarks, he acknowledged, Some of you may think Im a troublemaker. In October 2024, Milazzo was approved in principle for a hangar lease to operate a business at the airport. That lease was rescinded two months later, after Mayor Jennifer Macksey urged the Airport Commission to reverse course. Milazzo has been publicly critical of the city ever since. Mayor: Legal clarity coming Fitch asked that MassDOT Aeronautics, the city solicitor or another legal authority weigh in on the citys compliance status. Macksey said she will provide a report including a legal opinion at the councils Aug. 26 meeting. This is a great way to address the problems, and address what people perceive as problems, and get some kind of clarification, Councilor Ashley Shade said. I ask that in the communication we get back there be a written legal opinion attached. Macksey said most of the grant assurances in question stem from Massachusetts General Laws. The city is seeking an official response from MassDOT or the FAA confirming that North Adams, because of its charter, is not subject to certain requirements. I get the councils point of view, Macksey said. But if were so bad, and so out of line, why do they keep giving us money? Weve asked our legal counsel, the MAC and the FAA for their take. They feel this is a local issue, and that nothing is wrong but I want them to put that in writing. Airport still lacks oversight The Airport Commission currently does not have enough members to form a quorum and cannot meet. Commission Chair Jim Haskins is also scheduled to deliver an update to the council on Aug. 26. Despite efforts by Macksey, city staff and the two remaining commission members to stabilize the airport, the city has yet to hire a new airport manager. The position has been vacant since a string of resignations followed a 2020 incident in which Milazzo and friend Brian Doyle allegedly vandalized and damaged a hangar an episode that triggered a yearslong feud and court involvement. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close The Bee Gees were right; you can tell a good deal about a person by how they use their walk. You might be a ladies man, with no time to talk. Or perhaps you are as prideful as a peacock. If a person is looking down at the ground, shoulders slumped, shuffling along you probably assume they are walking in shame. Likewise, a person with a steady stride, eyes forward, and a confident posture is likely someone who could lead a board meeting. Scripture also talks about our walk. But it means something different than how you put one foot in front of the other. Micah 6:8 tells us that our walk should be a humble one. That verse gives us one of the clearest summaries of what God requires from His people. I love the simplicity. He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8). Walking humbly is difficult in a world that rewards self-promotion, platform building, and personal achievement. Everything around us is encouraging us to Make yourself bigger, louder, more visible. And yet Scripture calls us to a humble walk. What does that even look like? Is it about self-deprecation? Is it just a vague spiritual posture? Lets look closer at what it means to walk humbly with our God and why it may be the key that sustains a life of justice and mercy. What Is the Context of Micah 6:8? Micah is a pretty scathing book. He was sent to give a wake-up call to a complacent and corrupt people. The book opens with judgment of the religious and cultural leaders of Micahs day. And it keeps that tone at a pretty steady clip throughout the book. But its actually good news to the poor and downcast. Gods people had abandoned justice, exploited the vulnerable, and covered it all with a thin layer of religious ritual. Leaders were corrupt. The wealthy crushed the poor. And yet, they still went through the motions of worship, assuming God was pleased. Does that sound familiar? Micah 6 is God making His case against Israel. Its like a covenant lawsuit. Think of it like divorce proceedings. God reminds them of His faithfulness: I brought you out of Egypt I redeemed you from slavery. And then He asks a piercing question: What have I done to you, that you should treat me this way? The people respond as youd expect a disinterested lover to respond. What do you want? Basically, its them saying, please just tell me what I have to do in order to get you to shut up. And Ill do it. But the whole time their hearts are far from God. They dont actually want reconciliation. Micah responds with startling simplicity. God doesnt want their dumb religious performances. He wants a transformed life. And the heart of it is a humble walk with God. Picture this like a wife wanting to spend time with her husband, but he buys her jewelry instead. That might seem sweet, but after a while the jewelry is seen for what it is hush money. Thats what the people are doing with God. And He doesnt want any more of their silly little rituals. He is after relationship. He wants to walk with them. What Does It Mean to Walk with God? Walk is not just a poetic term here. In Hebrew thought, walking is a metaphor for how you live your entire life. Its about your habits, your posture, your movement through the world. To walk with God means to be in daily relationship with Him. Its not just believing in Him from a comfortable distance but orienting your whole life around His presence. Walking with someone implies movement, intentionality, and closeness. It means that youre going in the same direction. And it means youre going at the same pace. That actually takes effort. Have you ever tried to match the step of another person? You have to intentionally slow down or pick up the pace to stay with them. Its steady, faithful steps in the same direction. All of this implies that you arent walking ahead of God, trying to run the show. Nor are you staying behind Him, dragging your feet. You are walking with Him. Keeping in step with the Spirit. God walks a certain way. To follow Him means we have to step as He does. Such a walk requires humility. What Does God Mean by Humility? Lets go back to that dude who is walking all slouched over, shuffling feet, not making eye contact. It looks like hes having a pity part. Doesnt think much of himself. Thats a humble guy, right? Not likely. The truly humble wont have pity parties for themselves. Humility isnt self-hatred or even passivity. As its been said by many preachers before, humility isnt thinking less of yourself, its thinking of yourself less. (And if your preacher says that and gives you the impression that hes the originator of that quote hes probably not that humble). In Philippians 2, Paul points to Jesus as the ultimate picture of humility. Yes, the same King of kings who crafted a whip and cleared out a temple is the same one of whom Paul said: Though he was in the form of God he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross (Philippians 2:6-8). What that means is that Jesus, the Son of God, didnt grasp for status or cling to His rights. He stooped low. He served. And He did it all in complete dependence upon the father. Jesus wasnt driven by ego He was motivated by love. Jesus walked humbly with God. What does that look like for us? 3 Marks of a Humble Walk with God So what does it look like, practically, to walk humbly with our God? Lets explore three habits that mark a truly humble walk. 1. Listening Instead of Leading I think here of Michael Scott on The Office. At a particular seminar, put together just for him, he was asked to sign something that acknowledged hed sat through it and learned something. He couldnt do it. He said he didnt learn anything, but hed be willing to sign a paper that says he taught something. Thats pride. It always has to lead. You might be a leader when it comes to other people in your life. But when it comes to your relationship with God, you arent the one directing the steps. Youre to follow Him. In Scripture, walking with God always involves listening to His voice through His Word, His Spirit, and His people. Psalm 25:9 says, He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble His way. A good question to ask is: Am I listening for Gods direction, or am I just asking Him to bless my plans? Humility refuses to run ahead of God, even if the path looks obvious. 2. Trusting Instead of Controlling You arent in control anyways. You might think you are. But walking humbly means giving up that delusion. Its more like walking alongside of someone and saying, Where are we going? Thats how little kids can be with their parents. They dont have a clue where they are going, they just walk with their parent. As we mature, we want to know whats next. We try to manage outcomes, to make life predictable. But God often has us relate to Him as if were children still; we just hold His hand and go where He leads. Think of Abraham, told to leave his homeland and go to the land I will show you. Or Mary, told she would give birth to the Messiah with no clear explanation of how her life would unfold. To walk humbly means we dont demand to understand before we obey. 3. Repenting Instead of Pretending Have you ever had a shoe that kept getting untied as you walked? Doesnt matter if you triple knot that thing, its somehow going to wiggle itself free. Sin can be like that shoe. And if left unattended itll trip you up. Its hard to walk alongside of someone if you keep tripping on your laces. Micahs audience wanted to pretend like their shoes werent coming untied. They did the ol just tuck it into your shoe routine. They were offering sacrifices, going through the motions. But their hearts were proud, self-righteous, and closed to correction. If you arent living a life of authentic repentance, youre going to keep falling flat on your face and its going to hinder your walk. If youre humble, you arent interested in putting on a show. Humility doesnt perform, its authentic. And as a sinner saved by grace, thats going to mean the truly humble will spend plenty of time in repentance. We arent walking humbly to earn Gods favor. We walk humbly because we already have it. Jesus walked humbly with the Father. Hes the only One who has ever actually fulfilled Micah 6:8. And now His record is ours. His humility is what gives us life. And its what allows us to now follow in His footsteps in obeying Micah 6:8. You can walk humbly with God because of what Jesus has accomplished. Micah 6:8 isnt a checklist, its a posture. Its a relationship with God that is soaked in the blood of Jesus. Photo credit: Pexels/Ankit Sihag Fujifilm India unveils ENDOVEDA to revolutionise clinical reporting in gastroenterology July 29, 2025 | Tuesday | News To help set new standards for digital documentation in India Fujifilm India, a global leader in healthcare technology, has unveiled its latest innovation in endoscopy reporting, ENDOVEDA, at the Endocon 2025 conference in Jaipur. Developed entirely in India, ENDOVEDA marks a significant leap forward in digital documentation for endoscopic procedures, designed to support clinicians with advanced reporting tools and intuitive workflow. ENDOVEDA offers a comprehensive suite of features for endoscopic reporting, including Full HD 4k and UHD 4K image capture, intelligent image enhancement, and a user-friendly interface. It ensures seamless integration with hospital systems (PACS/HIS), robust data security, and flexible reporting options. Backed by dedicated local and remote support, ENDOVEDA streamlines workflows and enhances diagnostic precision for healthcare professionals. ENDOCON 2025 at Jaipur, a premier platform for knowledge exchange in gastroenterology, served as the ideal venue for the introduction of ENDOVEDA. The event brought together key opinion leaders, clinicians, and industry experts to discuss advancements in interventional techniques and medical technologies. Dheeraj Chaudhari, Head of Endoscopy Systems Division, Fujifilm India, added, ENDOVEDA reflects our understanding of what modern-day endoscopists require, a solution that not only captures high-quality images but also simplifies the reporting journey. Developed in close consultation with medical professionals, it supports seamless integration, personalization, and precision, all within a single platform. We believe ENDOVEDA will become an essential component in the endoscopy workflow and help set new standards for digital documentation in India. International medical programme for Indian students to practice in the US and Canada July 29, 2025 | Tuesday | News Designed specifically for high school graduates and aspiring doctors aiming to practice in North America image credit- shutterstock With a growing number of Indian students aspiring to pursue medical education and careers in the United States, Canada, and beyond, Xavier University School of Medicine, Aruba (XUSOM), in collaboration with KLE University, India, has launched a unique international medical pathway to support this ambition. This innovative programme allows students to begin their medical journey in India at KLE Universitys Belgaum campus, continue with their preclinical sciences education at XUSOM, and then complete clinical rotations at Xaviers affiliated and accredited teaching hospitals across the United States. Students will spend the first year completing pre-health coursework at KLEs campus in Belgaum. They will then advance to Xaviers state-of-the-art campus in Aruba for basic science training before transitioning to hands-on clinical experiences in the United States. By starting their studies at KLE and transitioning smoothly to Xavier University in Aruba, students benefit from a unique and accessible pathway to a global medical career. Designed specifically for high school graduates and aspiring doctors aiming to practice in North America, this programme offers a seamless, structured path to meet the rigorous standards required for medical licensure in the US and Canada. "This collaboration brings together a globally aligned medical curriculum taught by experienced and highly qualified faculty, ensuring students gain the knowledge, skills, and international exposure needed to excel in todays competitive medical field," said Dr Arun Kumar Dubey, Chief Academic Officer of XUSOM. Jem's Birding & Ringing Exploits in the Eastern Province and elsewhere in Saudi Arabia Borsa Italiana non ha responsabilita per il contenuto del sito a cui sta per accedere e non ha responsabilita per le informazioni contenute. Accedendo a questo link, Borsa Italiana non intende sollecitare acquisti o offerte in alcun paese da parte di nessuno. Sarai automaticamente diretto al link in cinque secondi. Social media posts by Laurence Fox referring to two people as paedophiles likely would not have been taken seriously by many people, the Court of Appeal has heard. The actor-turned-activist was successfully sued by now-Stonewall CEO Simon Blake and drag artist Crystal over a row on Twitter, now known as X. Advertisement Mr Fox called Mr Blake and the former RuPauls Drag Race contestant, whose real name is Colin Seymour, paedophiles in an exchange about a decision by Sainsburys to mark Black History Month in October 2020. Mr Fox called for a boycott of the supermarket and was called a racist by the pair, as well as broadcaster Nicola Thorp, before he responded with the paedophile tweets which led to the libel claims. In two judgments in 2024, Mrs Justice Collins Rice ruled in favour of Mr Blake and Mr Seymour and said Mr Fox should pay the pair 90,000 each in damages. The judge dismissed Mr Foxs counter claims against the pair and Ms Thorp over tweets accusing him of racism. Advertisement The 47-year-old is now challenging the rulings at the Court of Appeal in London, attending the first day of the hearing on Monday. Laurence Fox and his partner Elizabeth Barker attended Mondays hearing. Photo: Ben Whitley/PA. Patrick Green KC, for Mr Fox, said in written submissions that the judgment which found Mr Fox had libelled the pair should be quashed due to errors of approach by the judge, including over whether Mr Blake and Mr Seymour were caused serious harm. Mr Green said: Her conclusions were in any event, plainly wrong, on any fair consideration of the evidence. The barrister added that Mrs Justice Collins Rice had wrongly decided damages for the two men, who, along with Ms Thorp, are opposing the appeal. Advertisement Mr Green said that the decision on damages did not consider the actual words Mr Fox used and the likelihood that many or the vast majority of readers would have not have taken them seriously, particularly in their context. The barrister said that in one of her rulings, the judge ignores the actual words used, or their all important context. He also said the judge failed to account adequately or at all for an apology Mr Fox made, or alleged misconduct by Mr Blake and Mr Seymour in exaggerating the harm and distress caused. Mr Fox told the original trial in November 2023 that his use of the term was rhetorical, and there was no inference at any point that I thought they were a paedophile. Advertisement I was diminishing the ridiculousness of calling me a racist, he said. And on Monday, Mr Green said it was clear Mr Fox was being rhetorical. The barrister told appeal judges: Hes not saying I am a racist and they are paedophiles and everyone understood it in that way. Adrienne Page KC, for Mr Blake, Mr Seymour and Ms Thorp, said in written submissions that Mr Foxs appeal was lacking in merit. Advertisement Simon Blake (left), Nicola Thorp and Colin Seymour (right) attended the trial in November 2023 (Lucy North/PA) She continued: The paedophile tweets did not embody the appellants opinions about Mr Blake and Mr Seymour. They conveyed factual imputations of the most serious defamatory character. The barrister added there was no meaningful retraction or apology by Mr Fox. She later said: Whichever way one looks at it, the judge was fully entitled to reach the factual conclusions that she did on the serious, real-world, reputational impact of the appellants tweets, for the reasons which she gave. There was nothing wrong with her analysis in fact or law. Ms Page added that Mr Foxs case at trial had been largely devoted to hypothesising, as already noted, a series of different scenarios as to the various ways or settings in which his tweets may have appeared to different readers. After very careful and conscientious evaluation, the judge was, unsurprisingly, not persuaded of this on the facts, she continued. Ms Page continued that the sums of 90,000 in damages awarded to the pair were unexceptionable. The hearing before Lord Justice Dingemans, Lady Justice Elisabeth Laing and Lord Justice Warby is expected to conclude on Tuesday. Defendants have been convicted in Beirut of the killing of an Irish peacekeeper in 2022, the Minister for Foreign Affairs has said. Sean Rooney (24), from Newtowncunningham in Co Donegal, was killed when a convoy of Irish troops serving with a UN peacekeeping force was ambushed and fired upon on December 14th, 2022. Advertisement The shooting happened near the town of Al-Aqbiya in the south of Lebanon, a stronghold of Hezbollah. Pte Rooney, from the 121 Infantry Battalion of the Defence Forces, was killed. The Military Tribunal in Beirut for those indicted for the murder of Private Sean Rooney has concluded. This is an incredibly difficult day for the family of Private Rooney. None of us can fathom their unimaginable pain & grief and all my thoughts remain with them at this time pic.twitter.com/MKt1BHX2eY Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) July 28, 2025 On Monday, Simon Harris said he had been informed of the completion of a military tribunal in Beirut for those indicted for the murder of Pte Rooney. I welcome the conviction of the main defendant and a number of the other defendants, who had not previously been in court, he said. Advertisement While noting the sentence handed down to the main defendant, I am disappointed and share the disappointment of Pte Rooneys family at the lighter sentences imposed on a number of those convicted today. Sean Rooney made the ultimate sacrifice in the noble pursuit of peace. This is a difficult time for his family and his colleagues, especially those who were injured that night. All our thoughts are with them at this time. The Tanaiste said he pressed the case during his visit to Beirut in March during meetings with the Lebanese Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Defence. Tanaiste Simon Harris meets troops during his visit to Camp Shamrock in Lebanon in March. Photo: Niall Carson/PA I raised, in the strongest terms, my deep frustration at the slow pace of proceedings before the Lebanese Military Tribunal concerning those charged with Pte Rooneys killing, he said. Advertisement I appreciate, therefore, the efforts of the court to bring forward the hearing date from September to today. Ireland Mother of Irish soldier Sean Rooney gets permissio... Read More During my visit to Beirut, I left the Lebanese ministers in no doubt as to the absolute determination of the Irish Government to ensure that those responsible for Private Rooneys death are brought to justice. I want to express my appreciation to my officials, members of the Defence Forces, Irelands Ambassador to Lebanon, Irelands Honorary Consul to Lebanon, and the Departments Lebanese lawyer, all of whom attended todays hearing along with a member of Seans family. He added: Finally, I appreciate that this is an incredibly difficult day for the family of Private Rooney. None of us can fathom their unimaginable pain and grief and all my thoughts remain with them at this time. China advances toward scaled commercialization of humanoid robots Xinhua) 08:51, July 29, 2025 A child takes over a product he has purchased from a humanoid robot sales assistant at the exhibition area of the 2025 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in east China's Shanghai, July 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) SHANGHAI, July 28 (Xinhua) -- More than 60 humanoid robots are on display at the 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, demonstrating capabilities across industrial and service applications as China continues to move closer to large-scale commercialization. Once confined to stage performances, humanoid robots in China are now transitioning into practical industrial use, and are also poised to move from labs into a phase of mass production and commercial deployment, according to Du Guangda, deputy director of the department of science and technology at the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Being held from July 26 to 28, the 2025 WAIC features an exhibition area of over 70,000 square meters -- with more than 800 companies showcasing over 3,000 cutting-edge products. This year's event highlights an increasing focus on embodied intelligence, which involves intelligent systems with physical presence and real-time interaction with the environment. Driven by advances in generative artificial intelligence (AI), as well as both software and hardware innovations, China's humanoid robots are increasingly able to interact with their surroundings in smarter, more adaptive ways. "Humanoid robots integrate key technologies such as chips, sensors, AI, mechanics and materials. They are the ideal carriers of embodied intelligence and represent an advanced form of intelligent robotics," said Xu Xiaolan, president of the Chinese Institute of Electronics. "They are expected to become the next disruptive product after computers, smartphones and new energy vehicles -- with wide applications in domestic services, manufacturing, logistics, border security, education and healthcare," Xu added. Keenon Robotics, a leading embodied service robot company with products available in over 60 countries and regions, has debuted its new bipedal humanoid service robot, XMAN-F1, at the conference. XMAN-F1 is capable of performing standardized tasks -- such as food preparation and table service. At the Keenon Robotics booth, themed settings such as a "tavern bar" and "medical station" are showcasing a robot bartender's precise order recognition and pouring skills, alongside humanoid robots collaborating with their hospital logistics peers to create an intelligent medical delivery system. This, notably, marks a shift from single-function robots to integrated service ecosystems. Specialized robots excel in specific tasks, while general-purpose robots are valued for their adaptability across diverse environments, said Li Tong, founder and CEO of Keenon Robotics, who anticipates that both will work in tandem to jointly serve human society. Fourier Intelligence, a general-purpose robotics company initially focused on exoskeleton rehabilitation, has unveiled its upcoming humanoid care robot, named GR-3, in Shanghai. This robot is designed for interactive companionship. Featuring expressive facial details and a warm tactile design, GR-3 deepens emotional interaction by sensing user movements and emotions -- aiming for future deployment in care and educational settings. Building on this foundation, the GRx humanoid series has already been rolled out at over 300 medical sites across China -- serving more than 1 million patients. Beyond care and rehabilitation, a new generation of "blue-collar" humanoid robots is also emerging. Shanghai Kepler Robot Co., Ltd. focuses on industrial applications such as smart manufacturing, logistics and automated inspection. At the 2025 WAIC, its robots are demonstrating embodied intelligence in scenarios like automotive assembly and warehouse operations -- highlighting their potential to reduce reliance on manual labor in complex environments. "As humanoid robots evolve from simply walking and running to performing real tasks, the next breakthrough of humanoid robot lies in their ability to perform real tasks," said Jiang Lei, chief scientist of China's National and Local Co-built Humanoid Robotics Innovation Center. "The future of humanoid robots will focus on four pillars -- standards, innovation, open-source collaboration and ecosystem development." Located in Shanghai's Pudong New Area, this center is China's first training base for heterogeneous humanoid robots. To drive technological innovation and industrialization, the center has unveiled several key initiatives at the 2025 WAIC. The release of a proposal for collaboration on humanoid robot and embodied intelligence data collection marks a critical step toward building an open, compliant and shared data ecosystem through unified standards. Meanwhile, new collaborations with regional training grounds and tech leaders have been launched -- aiming to establish a cooperative ecosystem for embodied intelligence testing and iteration. The center also rolled out its open fund, supporting cutting-edge research at top universities and institutes, and catalyzing innovation across both academia and industry. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) A director of the board of trustees behind the Co Tipperary Barne Estate, which is at the centre of High Court proceedings launched by bloodstock billionaire John Magnier over a failed 15 million agreement, has told the court that 50,000 in brown envelopes offered by the Magnier side helped turn the trustees away from selling to him. Benjamin Newman, a director of the trustees who hold Barne Estate for chief beneficiaries and heirs Richard Thomson-Moore and his sister, Alexandra, told Paul Gallagher SC, for the Magnier side, today that the offer of 50,000 in two brown envelopes each containing 25,000 offered to the Thomson-Moores in September 2023 raised a "red flag" for the trust and was seen by them as a "pure inducement". Advertisement Mr Newman told the court that the trustees had, up to the point they were informed of the brown envelope offerings in October 2023, preferred Mr Magnier's bid over that of construction magnate Maurice Regan, who was bidding 5 million more, to the "frustration" of the Thomson-Moores. Mr Magnier wants the court to enforce the deal he claims he sealed with Mr Thomson-Moore in a handshake agreement for the 751-acre farm in Tipperary on August 22nd, 2023, at Mr Magnier's Coolmore home. The Magnier side has sued the Barne Estate, Mr Thomson-Moore and three companies of IQEQ (Jersey) Ltd group - the trustees - seeking to enforce the purported deal, which they say had been "unequivocally" agreed. The Barne defendants say there was never any such agreement, as they needed the consent of the trustees to finalise any deal. They subsequently preferred to sell the estate to Mr Regan for 22.25 million. Advertisement Mr Thomson-Moore has told the court that while a "price" was agreed with Mr Magnier for Barne, a "deal" was not. The trustees who hold the estate initially decided to remain loyal to the Magnier offer and felt Mr Regan's higher offer could be seen as "provocative". After the exclusivity period had ended, the trustees decided to go with Mr Regan's offer. The court has heard that on September 7th, 2023 - two weeks after Mr Magnier claims he shook hands with Mr Thomson-Moore on the deal for the Barne Estate - Mr Magnier called to Barne with his son, JP. The Thomson-Moores have told the court that estate agent John Stokes brought two brown envelopes given to him by JP containing a total of 50,000 in cash. Advertisement The Magnier side have told the court that the money was a token of "appreciation" to the Thomson-Moores for letting the Magnier side onto the land before any sale was finalised. Mr Newman said he had since accepted that this was the reason for the money, according to the evidence given by the Magnier side. Mr Thomson-Moore has told the court the delivery of the money caused him "shock" and he felt the offer of "envelopes stuffed with cash" was "untoward". The money was later returned by the Thomson-Moores. At the High Court on Tuesday, Mr Newman said that in October 2023, two factors turned the trustees away from Mr Magnier towards Mr Regan. Advertisement The first factor was the offer of cash to the Thomson-Moores, which Mr Newman said was viewed by the trustees as a "pure inducement" and that "significant" concerns were raised relating to "anti-corruption and bribery codes of practice" employed by the trust. The second factor, he said, concerned due diligence on Mr Regan's cash bid of 22.25 million - almost a 50 per cent increase on the final Magnier bid of 16 million plus a 500,000 trust for a child of Richard and Anna Thomson-Moore - which could be considered only after the one-month period of exclusivity between the Thomson-Moores and the Magnier side had elapsed. The due diligence on Mr Regan's bid was to establish his "genuine, bona fide" interest in the purchase and to make sure it was not a "provocative" bid designed to frustrate any sale to the Magnier side, said Mr Newman. Mr Newman said up until the exclusivity agreement expired, the trustees were "absolutely very happy and keen" to stick with Mr Magnier and honour the agreement even though it was a smaller offer. Advertisement He said the agreement on the price was "never presented to the trustees as a deal being done" as no one present at the August 2023 meeting had the capacity to agree a "deal" without trustee approval. Ireland Twitter takeover by Elon Musk created 'uncertainty... Read More Me Newman said that after the expiry of the exclusivity agreement at the end of September 2023, the transaction became a "purely commercial" one and Mr Regan's higher bid won out. Mr Newman told Martin Hayden SC, for the Thomson-Moore side, that Mr Regan had loaned, with interest, Barne Estate Ltd the cost of defending the court action taken by Mr Magnier and had also put down a "non-refundable" deposit on the purchase of the land. Mr Newman said the 22.25 million figure was a "life-changing one, a big number... way over what we had anticipated". The case continues before Mr Justice Max Barrett. A man who orchestrated an attack that left a young woman permanently blind in one eye has been jailed for six years. Jack Cummins (22) was the person who brought assailants to the scene and was the catalyst for all that ensued, Judge Pauline Codd said in sentencing him on Tuesday. Advertisement The phone call he made to his cousin that night had disastrous and tragic consequences for Ms Quinn Idris, the judge said. All the tragedy and heartbreak from that evening unfolded from that particular call. Cummins, of Rossmore Road, Ballyfermot, pleaded guilty to procuring an assault causing serious harm to Alanna Quinn Idris on Ballyfermot Road on December 30th, 2021. He made two calls to his cousin, Josh Cummins, then 17, who arrived with two others and attacked Ms Quinn Idris and her friend, Louis OSullivan. Ms Quinn Idris, also 17 at the time, was struck in the face with the saddle of an electric scooter, fracturing her eye socket and leaving her permanently blind in her right eye. Mr OSullivan was also assaulted. Cummins also pleaded guilty to violent disorder and assault causing harm to Mr OSullivan. He had no previous convictions and was 18 at the time. Advertisement Josh Cummins (now 20), of Raheen Drive, Ballyfermot, and Darragh Lyons (21), of Weir View, Glenaulin, Chapelizod, Dublin 20, have already been sentenced. A fourth man, who struck Ms Quinn Idris with the e-scooter saddle, has never been identified. Judge Codd said Jack Cummins may not have foreseen the level of violence, but he was highly reckless in orchestrating an attack by four people on two unarmed teenagers. He led the others to where the victims stood and failed to intervene at any point. He later struck Mr OSullivan himself. The judge described the effects on Ms Quinn Idris as utterly catastrophic and said she showed remarkable maturity in dealing with the case. Cummins now works as a plumber, lives at home, and is engaged to be married. A probation report assessed him as being at low risk of reoffending, and he has expressed deep remorse, telling the court he regrets the phone call for the rest of his life. Advertisement The judge set a headline sentence of 11 years for the procurement offence but reduced it to seven due to mitigating factors. She imposed concurrent sentences of six years for violent disorder and three years for assault, suspending the final year of the procurement sentence. The sentence must reflect the catastrophic outcome and act as a general deterrent against street violence, Judge Codd said. Garda Sergeant Michael Noonan told the court that Cummins and his girlfriend were on the same bus from Liffey Valley as the victims. After they all got off on Ballyfermot Road, a verbal exchange took place between Cummins and Mr OSullivan. The court heard that Cummins phoned his cousin following this exchange, and Josh Cummins arrived armed with a hurl and accompanied by two others. Advertisement The attack, which lasted around one minute, stopped only when passing motorists intervened. The four men fled the scene. Mr OSullivan was treated in hospital for a head wound, a puncture wound to the arm, and bruising. Ms Quinn Idris underwent emergency surgery that night and has since had multiple reconstructive surgeries, including a bone graft from her hip. She has permanently lost vision in one eye. Photos and medical reports were handed to the court. Darragh Lyons received four and a half years for his role in March 2023. Josh Cummins was sentenced to five years with the final two suspended in November 2023 after pleading guilty to causing serious harm, violent disorder, assault, and production of a hurl. Advertisement Reading her victim impact statement, Ms Quinn Idris said she is now permanently facially disfigured and noted that the incident was not a random act but followed other unpleasant encounters with Jack Cummins. Ireland Justin Kelly named as new Garda Commissioner Read More She told the court: None of this would have happened if he hadnt made those calls that night. The court also heard of earlier incidents, including Cummins pushing her to the ground and putting her in a headlock. Keith Spencer BL, defending, said his client acknowledged the phone calls but did not intend the resulting violence. He said Cummins acted out of fear after being challenged by Mr OSullivan and described his behaviour as out of character. Cummins read a letter of apology to Ms Quinn Idris in court, expressing sorrow and wishing her well in her recovery. A 42-year-old man with "an acquired brain injury" has pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of a woman in the north of Dublin city nearly a year ago. At a brief arraignment at the Central Criminal Court on Tuesday, Matthias Kelly, of no fixed abode in Coolock in Dublin, pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of Fiona Timmermans at Newbury Lawns, Clonshaugh in Dublin 17 on September 7th 2024. Advertisement Kelly also pleaded guilty to having entered a building known as Newbury Lawns in Clonshaugh as a trespasser, to commit an arrestable offence therein, to wit, attempted murder on the same occasion. The defendant further pleaded guilty to producing in a manner likely unlawfully to intimidate another person, an article capable of inflicting serious injury, to wit, a kitchen knife with a serrated blade, in the course of a dispute on the same occasion. In addition, Kelly admitted making a threat to kill Ms Timmermans at an unknown location within the State on September 1st 2024, intending her to believe it would be carried out. Kelly also pleaded guilty to damaging property without lawful excuse, to wit, the sitting room window and front bedroom window belonging to Jennifer Barror, intending such property or being reckless as to whether such property would be damaged at Millbrook Avenue, Coolock in Dublin 13 on September 6th 2024. Advertisement Defence counsel James Dwyer SC told the court that a trial date of January 26th, 2026, had previously been set and that could now be vacated. Mr Dwyer informed Mr Justice Paul McDermott that Kelly has an acquired brain injury, which appeared to be operative at the time these offences were committed. Counsel asked the court to grant legal aid for a medical report, which was acceded to. Brendan Grehan SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said there would be victim impact evidence on the next date. Mr Dwyer said he was also seeking a governor's, probation, and educational reports for his client, as well as a urine analysis. Mr Justice McDermott directed that these reports and victim impact statements be prepared and adjourned the matter to November 10th, when a sentence hearing will take place. A man who attempted to pervert the course of justice after raping his partner in Co. Monaghan has been jailed for 10 years. The 54-year-old Ukrainian man, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the victim, was found guilty by a jury, of raping and sexually assaulting the woman on March 13th 2024. Advertisement He was also convicted of one count of assault causing harm on the same date. The man pleaded guilty on a separate bill on June 18th this year to attempting to pervert the course of justice after he tried to halt the prosecution by calling the womans friend from a prison landline. The court heard he has 13 previous convictions for offences including for offences under the Road Traffic Act and public order breaches. He also breached barring orders in relation to the woman. Advertisement The court was told that he had a problem with alcohol and denied raping the victim when questioned by gardai and put the blame on her, saying she drank too much. Sentencing the man on Tuesday, Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring said that among the aggravating factors was his attitude when questioned, suggesting the person who had the difficulty was the victim when she drank, cannot be ignored. It is noted that the evidence of difficulty with alcohol is all at the door of (the accused) as confirmed by his previous convictions, she said. The shifting of blame, his untrue suggestion they were planning to marry and the breaching of court orders show an unwillingness to show personal responsibility for his actions and were all aggravating features in this case, said the judge. Advertisement In mitigation, the judge said his difficulties with the law have arrived late in life. She said he cannot be penalised for pleading not guilty, but the credit for pleading was not available to him. Garda Edward Hammond told the court the victim advertised for a lodger who would help with the discharge of her rent. The accused answered the advert, moved in, and they formed an intimate relationship. She said when she met the man in July 2023 and he was polite and courteous at first. He then changed, and she suggested ending the relationship as alcohol appeared more and more frequently. Advertisement The accused was intoxicated, and in March 2024, the victim asked him to leave. He refused to leave, and when the woman said she was leaving, the accused assaulted her and put his hand around her neck in a choking mechanism. He brought her to the ground, and while she was lying on the ground, he kicked her in the legs and dragged her to a bedroom where he proceeded to vaginally rape her, but had difficulty penetrating her. The court heard he also digitally penetrated her, and he was shouting at her and threatening her. The court heard the victim does not have good English, but late in the evening of March 18th, she attended the garda station and, with the assistance of an interpreter over the phone, she gave a number of statements. Advertisement She went to the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit, where a number of bruises were observed on her legs. The accused was promptly arrested and denied raping or sexually assaulting the victim. He told gardai that he and the woman were planning to get married and were also planning on going on holidays together. He said that she started drinking, and this caused changes in her. The accused used the landlines from the prison where he asked her friend to get the victim to withdraw her complaint and offered money to settle matters. Threats were also made to the complainant and her mother. The garda agreed with Tony McGillicuddy SC, defending, that the man arrived from Ukraine, had been working in the Monaghan area. The court heard the victim did not want to attend court and made a victim impact statement, which Patrick Gageby SC, prosecuting, read to the court, where she said the man continued to threaten her from prison. I was afraid to even go outside in case someone was following me. She said he told her many times he spent money on her and that she now owed him, and he threatened he would keep following her until she paid him back. I live in constant fear and anxiety, said the woman. She said he changed my life for the worse. I now live in constant fear for the sake of my life and my family. The accused has attempted to but did not succeed in perverting the course of justice by any means possible, said Mr Gageby. In mitigation, Mr McGillicuddy said his client he worked as a Maths teacher before moving to Ireland in early 2023. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can call the national 24-hour Rape Crisis Helpline at 1800-77 8888, access text service and webchat options at drcc.ie/services/helpline/ or visit Rape Crisis Help. A man has lost an appeal following a dispute with a couple over a domestic garage in which they kept exotic pets, including a female caiman alligator. Mr Justice Brian O'Moore, on behalf of the three-judge Court of Appeal (CoA), rejected appeals over the way the High Court handled contempt of court applications against Noel Martin senior and Drumgoan Developments Ltd. Advertisement The case arose when on February 21st 2024, Alan O'Neill and his three-year-old daughter were sitting in the home in which he and his partner June Finnegan had lived for 20 years at Crann Nua, Edenderry Road, Portarlington, Co Laois. Mr O'Neill heard loud hammering on the door of the adjacent garage where the couple kept various reptiles, including chameleons, scorpions, tarantulas and an alligator. He found two men smashing the walls of the garage with power tools while another approached Mr O'Neill, holding a piece of paper claiming Drumgoan owned his garage.. A fourth man arrived in a JCB digger and said he intended to drive the digger through the wall. The men were directed by Noel Martin Snr. Advertisement After Mr O'Neill told them there were animals in the garage, the digger driver said he was aware of this and did not care. "As I turned to pick up my daughter, the JCB driver drove the digger through the wall of the garage, causing substantial damage", Mr O'Neill told the court in a sworn statement. Gardai were called and the work stopped. The couple got a High Court injunction preventing any further interference with their garage by Mr Martin Snr, his son Darren, and Drumgoan. Mr Martin Snr later admitted breaching the court order by sending various texts, which Mr O'Neill said were threatening and designed to intimidate them. Advertisement They included Mr. Martin Snr saying he would report Mr. ONeill to Tusla for keeping pets and also sent images via text message implying that he had reported Mr O'Neill to Tusla. The High Court found Mr Martin Snr was wilfully in breach of the orders and said as a result it was awarding full costs against him, Darren and Drumgoan. Mr Martin appealed the decision. In his judgment on behalf of the appeal court, Mr Justice O'Moore said, "this bizarre incident" occurred because at the time the estate in which Mr. ONeill and Ms. Finnegan live was built, both they and some of their neighbours paid extra amounts to purchase a garage for each of their properties. The homes and the garages had been built by Drumgoan, and as a result of an error, the land on which the garage was built was not conveyed to the homeowners. By late 2023, Drumgoan was still the registered owner of this garage and other garages in the estate. Advertisement Mr. ONeill claimed that Drumgoan, Noel Martin Snr, and Darren Martin had been grabbing plots of land from my neighbours in the estate, claiming that these plots of land belong to them. Mr Martin Snr demanded money for them even though he had negotiated the sale of the homes in the estate in the first place, the judge said. This was also in circumstances where Mr Martin Snr said he had not been involved in Drumgoan for some time, and it remained unclear as to why the company required title, the judge said. Dismissing Mr Martin Snr's main appeal, claiming the High Court erred on a number of grounds, Mr Justice O'Moore said the rationale of the High Court judge in making the order as to costs that he did make was clear. In relation to a claim that Darren should not have been fixed with the costs order, the judge said the injunction case was brought against all three defendants, Mr Martin Snr, Darren and Drumgoan. Advertisement Whether or not the individual defendants were acting as agents of the company, their behaviour was such as to justify the bringing of the application, he said. "It may be the case that either Mr. Martin Snr or Darren Martin can seek an indemnity from Drumgoan. That is a matter between themselves", he said. A man who left a victim requiring brain surgery following a one-punch assault that knocked the victim to the ground has been jailed for two and a half years. Richard Manson (48), formerly of Mellows Quay, Ushers Quay, Dublin 8, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing serious harm to Patrik Hudacek outside Pilsner Bar, also on Ushers Quay on December 3rd, 2023. Advertisement Imposing sentence on Tuesday, Judge Martin Nolan said this was an unfortunate case in which the injured party sustained a serious injury. He said this was a one-punch attack and that it seems it was momentary stupidity on the part of Manson to involve himself, adding that the defendant had moved towards the trouble. The judge said he had taken into account the mitigation before imposing a four-year sentence with the final 18 months suspended on strict conditions. Garda Richard Pender told David Perry BL, prosecuting, that Mr Hudacek had been drinking in the bar with four other Slovakian men that evening. Staff later reported that the group had been singing loudly and they had been asked to quieten down, but otherwise they had not caused any trouble. Advertisement Manson was in the bar with a group of men. These men seemed to be irritated by the Slovakian men, and at one point, one of that group left to make a phone call before returning with four other men. These men then sat together and continued to stare at the group that Mr Hudacek was in. Mr Hudacek and his friends left the bar, and they were followed by the other group. Before this group left the bar, one of the men armed himself with a steak knife from a cutlery basket. A second man went into the kitchen area of the bar and tried to grab a knife, but was prevented from doing so by staff. He then tried to also take a knife from the cutlery basket, but was again stopped by staff. One of the group, who is due to go for trial, approached the Slovakian men and asked, What is your problem? before he threw a punch. Advertisement A second man then shouted, I will stab you to bits, you mad thing, while producing the knife he had taken from the bar. Mr Hudacek started to walk towards the group, but Manson punched him in the face, knocking him to the ground. He struck his head off the ground and was rendered unconscious. Gda Pender said the brawl then broke out between the group, that lasted about 90 seconds. All the men from Mr Hudaceks group were punched and kicked by the others. Manson left the scene but returned to the bar to meet with his partner and his dog. He walked past Mr Hudacek twice, who was still on the ground unconscious. Mr Hudacek was ultimately moved back into the bar, and an ambulance was called. Advertisement The court played CCTV footage of the assault. Manson was arrested after gardai identified him on the footage. He was interviewed and claimed he had been acting in self-defence. He said he had followed a guy out of the bar who had a glass in his hand. He said he put his head down and swung out. Manson told gardai from the bottom of my heart, I genuinely hope he pulls through I pray for him every night. A victim impact report and medical reports were handed into court but not read into the record. Advertisement Mr Perry said Mr Hudacek underwent brain surgery for five hours and spent five weeks in a medically induced coma. His wife travelled from Slovakia and stayed with him until he was transferred back to Slovakia by air ambulance. Gda Pender confirmed that it is most likely that Mr Hudacek will never work again. He confirmed that Manson had 12 previous convictions from Northern Ireland, including offences from October 2009 for firearm offences and conspiracy to rob. Gda Pender agreed with Seamus Clarke SC, defending, that Manson runs his own company as a bricklayer and works as a subcontractor. It was accepted that Manson had 20,000 in court to offer as a token of remorse. The court heard that Mr Hudaceks family are willing to accept this sum. Gda Pender accepted that Manson is very remorseful. Mr Clarke asked the court to accept that his client had pleaded guilty at an early point, while most of the other men have elected for trial. Counsel said Manson lived with his father in Scotland until he died when Manson was 14 years old, and he moved to Northern Ireland to be with his mother. He left that family home when he was 16 and began working as a bricklayer. There were numerous letters and testimonials which spoke of him being of good character. There was other documentation in the court to support the fact that Manson has a legitimate business and is contracted for future work. Mr Clarke said his client is a person who works hard and is a good father to his children. Judge Nolan directed that the 20,000 should be paid within one month. Addressing Manson directly, Judge Nolan said: It gives the court no joy to imprison you. He noted Manson had been in trouble earlier in his life, but had changed his life and become a pro-social member of society. The judge said the victim sustained a serious injury and told Manson, you must pay for what you did on the night in question and must suffer imprisonment for what you did. A second set of plans for an apartment development on lands of the former Bessborough mother and baby home in Cork city has been rejected just days after an even larger apartment complex in a separate part of the grounds was refused planning permission. An Coimisiun Pleanala formerly known as An Bord Pleanala has ruled that a proposal by developer Estuary View Enterprises (EVE) 2020 Limited to demolish a large number of agricultural buildings and construct 140 apartments on the grounds of Bessborough House in Blackrock failed to meet the planning requirements in terms of unit mix. Advertisement Just 1 per cent of apartments in The Farm scheme were three-bed units compared to the target figure of 28 per cent set by Cork City Council. The commission said the plans for the 5.1-hectare site represented a material contravention of the Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 with no justification provided by the developer for its unit mix. However, the commission did not adopt a recommendation of its own planning inspector that the application should also be refused planning permission because it was not satisfied that the site was not previously used as a childrens burial ground. The inspector, Colin McBride, said such a reason had been the basis for An Bord Pleanala to reject two earlier proposed developments in other parts of the Bessborough lands and it would similarly be premature to approve the Farm scheme. Advertisement The decision of An Coimisiun Pleanala comes just after it had already rejected plans by the same developer for a 280-unit apartment scheme known as The Meadows on a 2.29-hectare site within the Bessborough Grounds. The commission based its refusal in relation to the Meadows site on both the unit mix and excessive scale of the plans which it ruled would be visually obtrusive as well as constituting a substandard form of incongruous development. However, it also did not adopt a similar recommendation by Mr McBride that planning permission should also be refused over concerns about potential burial grounds of children. The two proposals are part of a three-part masterplan by EVE to open up a large part of the Bessborough lands for the creation of new communities and a large publicly accessible parkland area. Advertisement A planning application has still to be submitted for the proposed third phase of 200 apartments in a western part of the grounds. Planning permission for both the Farms and Meadows schemes were sought under the process for strategic housing developments which obviated the need to first submit an application to Cork City Council. However, the local authority recommended that EVEs planning application for the Farm scheme should be approved subject to a number of conditions including the omission of one of the proposed five apartment blocks and a reduction in the height of two other buildings. It also supported the separate plans for the Meadows scheme. Advertisement In contrast, elected members of Cork City Council at a meeting in May 2022 were generally opposed to both developments due to concerns about historic legacy issues associated with the sites and the appropriateness of the projects. The Farm scheme had also provided for a new pedestrian/cycle bridge over the Passage West Greenway while two repurposed farmyard buildings were due to be used for some apartment units as well as a creche, library, lounge and function space. EVE said it had met with the Cork Survivors & Supporters Alliance (CSSA) at an early stage of the design process for the Farm scheme because of the sensitivity associated with the location. However, the developer said the locations within the Bessborough lands that were of concern to the group which they wanted preserved were outside the companys control but that the CSSA had no objection to the principle of the Farm scheme. Advertisement EVE said its report on the cultural heritage legacy of the site had found no evidence to suggest the proposed area for development contained any burials associated with the former mother and baby home. Ireland Plans for Cork student accommodation on site of fo... Read More However, in a submission to the then An Bord Pleanala, the Bessboro Mother and Baby Home Support Group claimed the apartments were not in keeping with the history of the grounds. It also expressed concern that there was a lack of agreement on the interpretation of maps of the Bessborough lands and that there was too much ambiguity as to where the majority of children are buried. The group claimed there was still a lack of proper inspection of the grounds. The report by Mr McBride said it had already been widely accepted following an earlier oral hearing about another proposed development on the Bessborough lands that the extent of the area to which uncertainty persists regarding the potential for unrecorded burials was significant. Tesco has been granted a High Court injunction requiring a couple to remove horses on an eight-acre site it owns in Galway. Martin and Kathleen Donovan, who live at Tur Uisce, Doughiska, Galway, have been keeping the horses and using buildings as makeshift stables on the site at Briarhill Junction, Galway City, the court heard. Advertisement On Friday, the court granted permission, following an ex parte (one side only represented) application by Tesco, to serve proceedings on the couple, requiring that they end the trespass and remove the animals. On Tuesday, David Dodd BL, for Tesco, said efforts had been made by a summons server to pin court papers on the door of the house the couple live in as directed by the court in order to effect service of the proceedings. The server had to leave for his safety after he was told that a number of the people in the house at the time would "deal" with him if he tried to pin the papers to the door. There was no appearance by or for either of the Donovans on Tuesday. Advertisement Mr Justice Brian Cregan said in those circumstances he was granted the orders sought by Tesco. He said the case could come back next month and mentioned to the duty judge after August 25th. Last week, the court heard the couple had engaged with Tesco representatives at a meeting in June when they said they would get the horses off if they were "financially compensated" so that they could buy or rent new land to keep the animals. Tesco refused. The Donovans also claimed they have been on the site for 15 years and could claim some adverse possession (squatter's rights). Tesco dispute this and say the claim is bound to fail. Galway City Council have also notified Tesco that it had to render the land "other than derelict" and the site had been placed on the derelict sites register, which could result, if works are not carried out, in punitive levies and the possibility of a compulsory purchase order. Advertisement It has not been possible for Tesco's contractors to get onto the land and do the necessary work due to safety concerns. Tesco has erected paladin fencing around the site boundary, but locks to the gates to the site had been removed and new locks placed there, but not by Tesco. The takeover of Twitter by billionaire businessman Elon Musk in 2022 created uncertainty and fear among staff after they were given less than 48 hours to make a decision about their future with the company, the Labour Court has heard. A former senior executive in the companys Dublin office, Gary Rooney, told a hearing on Tuesday that he was given an ultimatum to sign up to a new reality following Mr Musks $44 billion acquisition of the social media platform (now known as X). Advertisement Mr Rooney described the change in the business after the billionaires takeover as fairly chaotic. The claim was made during an appeal by Twitter International against a ruling by the Workplace Relations Commission that it should pay a record award of 550,131 in compensation to Mr Rooney after ruling that he had been unfairly dismissed from his job. Mr Rooney is separately appealing the award amount and claiming the figure should be 689,406 to represent the maximum sum of two years remuneration. He estimates his ongoing monthly loss at 16,753. The Labour Court heard his total remuneration for 2022 was 344,703, including a basic salary of 137,000 plus bonuses, pension contributions and other benefits, including restricted stock units. Advertisement Mr Rooney, who was Director of Source to Pay with Twitter, claims the company decided he had resigned when he failed to click a button requiring him to agree new, unspecified pay and conditions within a short deadline in response to an e-mail entitled A Fork in the Road from Mr Musk on November 16th, 2022. However, Twitter maintains that Mr Rooney was never dismissed, and it was perfectly clear that he was choosing to leave the organisation when he decided not to click a Yes button. Twitter is also disputing that restricted stock units awarded on a discretionary basis should be part of the calculation of his remuneration and claims Mr Rooneys estimated losses are wildly inaccurate. In evidence, Mr Rooney said he never considered that he had resigned from the company. Advertisement He claimed Mr Musks takeover of the company was very consequential as there were rumours of substantial layoffs among its workforce. The prevailing mood was anxiety and fear about what could come down the road, he recalled. The three-person Labour Court division, chaired by Louise ODonnell, heard 50 per cent of Twitters global staff were made redundant within two weeks, while Mr Rooney had no time to argue a case for keeping his own team of nine employees. He noted that all decisions were being made by a small team of people from other companies owned by Mr Musk, such as Tesla and SpaceX. Advertisement Mr Rooney told his counsel, Padraic Lyons SC, that an instruction to stop all payments to suppliers as well as expenses to staff resulted in a very stressful and very emotional time. He recalled seeing Mr Musks email for the first time when he was on a DART at around 8am on November 16th, 2022. I really didnt know what to think or what it would mean, he added. In the e-mail, staff were told that they would need to be extremely hardcore in building Twitter 2.0 and only exceptional performance will constitute a passing grade." Advertisement Anyone who did not click yes by 10pm Irish time the following day would receive three months severance. Although he always regarded himself as high performing and someone who worked long hours, Mr Rooney said he did not know if he would make the passing grade. He pointed out he received another document at 2.19am on November 17th, 2022, which sought to clarify issues about Mr Musks e-mail. Mr Rooney said it seemed to have been sent because the e-mail did not seem like an official communication from a head of an organisation and staff had regarded it with confusion and disbelief. He did not know what he was being asked to sign up to, and there was no chain of command from which he could get further information. Mr Rooney said he expected his work hours would be extended and he would be asked to work very late into the night and through weekends, which he was not prepared to do. He told the hearing that a webinar hosted from San Francisco on November 16th, 2022, had provided no extra useful information, but that Mr Musk expected a lot from his staff. The message was that Twitters owner was a great person and everything he did was for the betterment of humanity, Mr Rooney recalled. He claimed workers were told that they should be enthusiastic about working for the businessman because of the person that he was. The Labour Court heard that Mr Rooneys access to his work computer system was cut off in the middle of the night on November 17th, 2022. He claimed Twitter had failed to reply to him within three days as promised, when he had complained that he had not resigned or even seen any separation agreement. In correspondence on December 7th, 2022, he was informed that the company was treating his decision not to click the Yes button as him serving notice to resign. Mr Rooney said further letters from his solicitor to Twitter did not receive any response. He claimed he was given inadequate notice to make a significant decision about his career. To have 12 hours to make a decision of that magnitude I dont think that was reasonable, he remarked. Mr Rooney gave evidence that he applied for at least 68 other positions before securing alternative employment with a large financial institution nine months later. The Labour Court heard that his current total remuneration in his new job is 135,000, including a basic salary of 109,000. Under cross-examination by counsel for Twitter, Cathy Smith SC, Mr Rooney accepted it was clear that he needed to click Yes if he wanted to stay working with the company. However, he claimed it was not just if you wanted to stay, but stay under new conditions which were unclear. I did not know what pressing Yes meant, he remarked. Mr Rooney accepted that no threat had been made to employees, but said he disagreed with the principle of what was being done in the email. Ms Smith said he had also posted messages to colleagues that he was leaving the company, and the reality was that he did not want to work for a company owned by Mr Musk. However, Mr Rooney replied that it was not that black and white as he had been unhappy many times over the years with the direction of Twitters leadership, but he had stuck it out. He stressed he would have returned to work if access to his computer system had not been cut. In an opening submission, Mr Lyons said Mr Rooney had been an exemplary employee with long and distinguished service over nine years with Twitter. However, the barrister said Mr Musks acquisition of the company had resulted in a profound attack on established norms and an attempt to dismantle staff entitlements. He claimed the Fork in the Road e-mail was totally extraordinary and unprecedented. Mr Lyons described what happened as a paradigm case of unfair dismissal. However, Ms Smith disputed that Mr Rooney had been dismissed and noted his role had not been identified as redundant, despite a significant reduction in the companys workforce. The barrister highlighted how the companys difficulties had begun before Mr Musks takeover in 2022. She observed that Mr Rooney was the only person to claim he had been unfairly dismissed and to be confused about what the e-mail had meant. Ireland Man in dispute with couple over 'alligator in gara... Read More Ms Smith said he had also never raised a grievance before he left his employment with Twitter on December 18th, 2022. She also noted that payments to suppliers and expenses to staff had been paused to allow a complete audit of such payments to be carried out. The Labour Court heard Twitters global workforce has been reduced from 8,000 to just over 1,000, while the number of staff in its Dublin office has fallen from 270 to just over 100. The hearing was adjourned and will resume on Wednesday, when it is expected to conclude. Nigel Farage has reiterated his demands for a UK Cabinet minister to apologise for accusing him of being on the side of extreme pornographers. A row broke out on Tuesday morning after Peter Kyle said the Reform UK leader is on the side of people like Jimmy Savile over the partys pledge to scrap the UK Online Safety Act. Advertisement Mr Farage labelled UK technology Secretary Mr Kyles remarks as below the belt and so absolutely disgusting that its almost beyond belief, and urged people to sign a petition calling for the legislation to be repealed. Former Reform chair Zia Yusuf said on Monday that the party would repeal the legislation if they got into government. I see that Nigel Farage is already saying that hes going to overturn these laws, Mr Kyle told Sky News. So you know, we have people out there who are extreme pornographers, peddling hate, peddling violence. Nigel Farage is on their side. Advertisement Make no mistake about it, if people like Jimmy Savile were alive today, hed be perpetrating his crimes online. And Nigel Farage is saying that hes on their side. Peter Kyle's comments on @SkyNews are disgusting. He should do the right thing and apologise. Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) July 29, 2025 Responding to Mr Kyle on a live stream on Tuesday morning, Mr Farage said: Just how low can the Labour Government sink in its desperation? Yes, of course theyre in trouble. Theyre well behind us in the opinion polls. But frankly, to say that I would do anything that would in any way aid and abet people like Jimmy Savile, its so below the belt its almost not true. He also reiterated his demand for an apology and added: Were not going to get one. I think perhaps the best thing we can do is to sign the petition to repeal the Online Safety Act. Thats what Im going to do today. I think it makes sense. Im deeply worried about the implications for free speech. Advertisement Under rules that came into effect on July 25th, online platforms such as social media sites and search engines must take steps to prevent children accessing harmful content such as pornography or material that encourages suicide. Mr Yusuf has said that the laws work to suppress freedom of speech and force social media companies to censor anti-government speech. After being asked by Mr Farage to apologise on social media, Mr Kyle doubled down on his comments, claiming that wanting to overturn the Act puts somebody on the side of predators. If you want to overturn the Online Safety Act you are on the side of predators. It is as simple as that. https://t.co/oVArgFvpcW Peter Kyle (@peterkyle) July 29, 2025 Mr Yusuf has claimed that Mr Kyles remarks showed how deeply unserious the UK government was about child safety, adding: Talking about Jimmy Savile in that way does nothing other than denigrate the victims of Jimmy Savile. Advertisement He told Sky News that the comments are one of the most outrageous and disgusting things a politician has said in the political arena that I can remember. And thats quite a high bar, frankly. Sir Keir Starmer jumped to defend the legislation from its critics when he met Donald Trump on Monday, telling reporters: Were not censoring anyone. Weve got some measures which are there to protect children, in particular, from sites like suicide sites. The UK prime minister added: I personally feel very strongly that we should protect our young teenagers, and thats what it usually is, from things like suicide sites. I dont see that as a free speech issue, I see that as child protection. Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara has said he will seek a fourth term leading the West African nation, which is due to hold elections in October. His candidacy is contested after he changed the constitution to remove the presidential term limit. Advertisement The 83-year-old president declared his plan in a televised announcement. He won a third term in 2020 after he initially said he was not going to run again. However, he changed his position following the death of his hand-picked successor, Prime Minister Amadou Gon Coulibaly. For several months, I have received numerous calls from fellow citizens regarding my potential candidacy in the presidential election, the president said. Advertisement Referring to the country by its name in French, he went on: Women and young people from all regions of Cote dIvoire, and countless anonymous voices from our neighbourhoods, towns and villages have reached out. In response to those appeals, I announced on June 22 that, as president of all Ivorians, I would, after careful reflection, make a decision guided solely by the best interest of the nation. His most prominent rival, Tidjane Thiam, has already been barred from running by a court on the grounds that he was still a French citizen at the time he declared his candidacy, even though he later renounced his French nationality. Ivorian law bans dual nationals from running for president. Elections in Ivory Coast have usually been fraught with tension and violence. When Mr Ouattara announced his third term bid, several people were killed in the ensuing violence. There have been protests against the courts decision to bar Mr Thiam from contesting the election. Advertisement Mr Ouattara is the latest among a growing number of leaders in West Africa who remain in power by changing the constitutional term limit. Coup leaders in the region have used alleged corruption within democratic governments and electoral changes as a pretext to seize power, leading to a split in the regional bloc, Ecowas. For those critical of Ecowas and civilian governments, Ouattaras decision just reinforces the legitimacy crisis everyone in the region is facing. It makes people like Ouattara look like hypocrites, Nat Powell, Africa analyst at Oxford Analytica, told the Associated Press. Mr Ouattaras candidacy drew strong criticism from opposition members. Advertisement Alassane Ouattara does not want to leave power like any self-respecting dictator, Guillaume Soro, a former prime minister who was blocked from running in the election, said. Affi Nguessan, a candidate of the opposition Ivorian Popular Front, called Mr Ouattaras candidacy illegal but said he is confident that a united opposition will defeat him at the polls. A row has broken out between Labour and Reform after the British technological secretary accused Nigel Farage of being on the side of extreme pornographers and Jimmy Savile over his partys pledge to scrap the UK Online Safety Act. Mr Farage labelled the comments disgusting and called on Peter Kyle to apologise, after the Cabinet minister said the Reform leader is on the side of turning the clock back to when strangers can get in touch via messaging apps with children. Advertisement Former Reform chairman Zia Yusuf claimed the remarks are one of the most outrageous and disgusting things a politician has said in the political arena. Peter Kyle's comments on @SkyNews are disgusting. He should do the right thing and apologise. Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) July 29, 2025 Under rules that came into effect on July 25th, online platforms such as social media sites and search engines must take steps to prevent children accessing harmful content such as pornography or material that encourages suicide. Mr Yusuf said on Monday that the party would repeal the legislation if they got into government, claiming it works to suppress freedom of speech and force social media companies to censor anti-government speech. Speaking to Sky News on Tuesday, Mr Kyle said that children have been living in a wild west and labelled the new law a big step forward. Advertisement He added: I see that Nigel Farage is already saying that hes going to overturn these laws. So you know, we have people out there who are extreme pornographers, peddling hate, peddling violence. Nigel Farage is on their side. Make no mistake about it, if people like Jimmy Savile were alive today, hed be perpetrating his crimes online. And Nigel Farage is saying that hes on their side. If you want to overturn the Online Safety Act you are on the side of predators. It is as simple as that. https://t.co/oVArgFvpcW Peter Kyle (@peterkyle) July 29, 2025 Asked to clarify his comments, Mr Kyle said: Nigel Farage is on the side of turning the clock back to the time when strange adults, strangers can get in touch via messaging apps with children. Mr Farage reacted on X by calling Mr Kyles remarks disgusting and said he should do the right thing and apologise. Advertisement Mr Kyle then doubled down on his comments in response, and said that if you want to overturn the Online Safety Act you are on the side of predators. It is as simple as that. Mr Yusuf claimed that Mr Kyles remarks showed how deeply unserious the UK government was about child safety, adding: Talking about Jimmy Savile in that way does nothing other than denigrate the victims of Jimmy Savile. He told Sky News that the comments are one of the most outrageous and disgusting things a politician has said in the political arena that I can remember. And thats quite a high bar, frankly. Sir Keir Starmer jumped to defend the legislation from its critics when he met Donald Trump on Monday, telling reporters Were not censoring anyone. Advertisement Weve got some measures which are there to protect children, in particular, from sites like suicide sites. He added: I personally feel very strongly that we should protect our young teenagers, and thats what it usually is, from things like suicide sites. I dont see that as a free speech issue, I see that as child protection. A Palestinian man who filmed parts of an Oscar-winning documentary has been shot dead in the occupied West Bank, according to witnesses. A radical Israeli settler accused of shooting activist Awdah Hathaleen during a confrontation with unarmed Palestinians was filmed firing a pistol during the incident in Umm al-Khair, a village that has long seen conflict between the two communities. Advertisement Witnesses say Yinon Levi, who was previously under US sanctions that were lifted by the Trump administration, killed Mr Hathaleen, who was also an English teacher and father of three. Congratulations to NO OTHER LAND, this year's Best Documentary Feature Film! #Oscars pic.twitter.com/VHY12iych9 The Academy (@TheAcademy) March 3, 2025 Umm al-Khair is in Masafer Yatta, the focal point of the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land, which chronicles the Palestinians effort to remain on their land in the face of violence and the expansion of Jewish settlements considered illegal by most of the international community. Mr Hathaleen, whose footage appears in the documentary, was outspoken about life under Israeli occupation. His death sparked an outpouring of grief from family, international activists and rights groups. Advertisement The Israeli co-director of the documentary, Yuval Abraham, described Mr Hathaleen in an Instagram post as a remarkable activist who helped us film No Other Land in Masafer Yatta. The film, which won the Oscar for best documentary feature film in March, had two Israeli and two Palestinian co-directors. The Israeli military said an Israeli civilian had opened fire toward terrorists who hurled rocks at Israelis. Israeli police said they detained eight people including an Israeli for questioning on suspicion of reckless conduct resulting in death and unlawful use of a firearm, five Palestinians and two foreigners. Advertisement Police said on Tuesday a court had denied their request to extend the detention of the Israeli and ordered the suspects release to house arrest. The police did not identify the suspect, but Israeli media ran photos of a smiling Levi inside a courthouse on Tuesday. Meanwhile, residents said four of the five arrested Palestinians remained in Israeli custody. They took the other half of my heart, Mr Hathaleens brother-in-law, Tariq Hathaleen, wrote on Instagram. Advertisement You were always telling the story, and now youve become the story. The encounter in which witnesses said Awdah Hathaleen was shot was filmed in footage obtained by The Associated Press. The video shows Levi waving a pistol during a stand-off with a group of Palestinians on a dusty road, a yellow excavator visible in the background. Witnesses said Levi was there to protect the excavator, which had rolled down from a nearby settlement and damaged Palestinian property earlier in the day. Advertisement The extended Hathaleen family and activists gathered at a mourning tent on Tuesday. Israeli troops arrived later, ordering all foreign passport holders and media to leave, saying the area was a closed military zone. Umm Al-Khair was founded in the 1950s by traditionally nomadic Bedouin, who settled there after being uprooted from the Negev desert during the 1948 war surrounding Israels creation. Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Middle East war. Last year, Israels military tore down a quarter of the homes in Umm Al-Khair, saying they had been built without Israeli authorisation. On the day he died, Mr Hathaleen sent an urgent call to his network of activists and reporters. The settlers are working behind our houses and the worst (is) that they tried to cut the main water pipe for the community, he wrote. If you can reach people like the congress, courts, whatever, please do everything. If they cut the pipe the community here will literally be without any drop of water. Two more men have appeared in court charged with violent disorder after a protest outside a hotel housing asylum seekers. Essex Police said the tally of people charged in connection with protests at The Bell Hotel in Epping now stands at 14. Advertisement The latest to appear in court were plasterer Phillip Curson, 52, and Martin Peagram, 33. Both appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on Tuesday charged with violent disorder. Curson, of Upminster, east London, gave no indication of plea and was granted conditional bail until an appearance before Chelmsford Crown Court on August 26th. Police outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex (Yui Mok/PA) Prosecutor Sharon Hall said it is alleged that Curson had been stamping on a police van and lunging and kicking out at police officers. Advertisement The court heard that Curson handed himself in at a police station on Monday after an appeal by Essex Police. As part of his bail conditions he must not attend The Bell Hotel or any protest, and has a curfew monitored by an electronic tag to remain at his home address from 7pm to 6am daily. Peagram, of Loughton, Essex, indicated a plea of guilty to the charge of violent disorder and was remanded in custody until an appearance before Chelmsford Crown Court in the week beginning September 1st. Multiple demonstrations have been held outside The Bell Hotel since July 13th after an asylum seeker was charged with allegedly attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl. Advertisement Essex Police had previously sought to speak to two people in relation to the protest outside The Bell Hotel on July 17th, before Curson and Peagram were charged. Rebecca Mundy, deputy chief crown prosecutor for CPS East of England said: The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised Essex Police to charge a further two people following the recent disorder in Epping. She said the CPS had authorised that nine people be charged. Essex Police said that 14 people have been charged in total, including charges secured by the police alone, independently of the CPS. Advertisement Ms Mundy continued: I would like to remind all concerned that there are active criminal proceedings against all named individuals, and they have the right to a fair trial. There must be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online that may in any way prejudice these proceedings. The protest on July 17th began peacefully but escalated into what officers described as scattered incidents of violence targeting police and property. The force previously said a small number of people used that demonstration as cover to commit violent disorder and criminal damage. Advertisement Eight officers were injured and a number of police vehicles were damaged as missiles were thrown. On Sunday three people were arrested at the latest demonstration outside the hotel, as protesters waved union flags while Stand Up To Racism counter-protesters marched to the hotel with signs reading: Stop scapegoating refugees and migrants." Essex Police said there was an escalation of violence during protests at the same site on July 13th, 17th, 20th and 24th, involving hundreds of people. It was sparked by the charging of asylum-seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, with sexual assault after he allegedly attempted to kiss a 14-year-old girl. Last week the UK Home Office said it was working to close hotels and restore order after Epping Forest District Council unanimously voted to urge the UK government to immediately and permanently close the hotel for the purposes of asylum processing. The Essex police, fire and crime commissioner also reportedly urged the Home Secretary to review the use of the hotel for housing asylum seekers. In a letter to UK home secretary Yvette Cooper, Roger Hirst said the hotel was unsuitable for housing migrants and is clearly creating community tension, the Telegraph reported. The UK will recognise the state of Palestine in September unless Israel takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, Keir Starmer has told his Cabinet. The British Prime Minister recalled the Government from their summer recess to discuss the situation. Advertisement According to a readout of the Cabinet meeting issued by Downing Street, Starmer told ministers now was the right time to move this position on the two-state solution. The read out went on: He said that because of the increasingly intolerable situation in Gaza and the diminishing prospect of a peace process towards a two-state solution, now was the right time to move this position forward. He said that the UK will recognise the state of Palestine in September, before UNGA (UN General Assembly), unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, reaches a ceasefire, makes clear there will be no annexation in the West Bank, and commits to a long-term peace process that delivers a two-state solution. It comes after the British Prime Minister had been under increasing pressure to recognise Palestine amid the warnings of starvation in Gaza. The older brother of Oasis stars Noel and Liam Gallagher has been charged with rape and a string of other violent sex offences, the London Telegraph has revealed. Paul Gallagher, 59, who lives in East Finchley, north London, was charged by Scotland Yard following an investigation that began last year. Paul Gallagher at the Glastonbury Festival in 2019. Credit: Getty Images As well as rape, he is accused of three counts of sexual assault, three counts of intentional strangulation, coercive and controlling behaviour, two counts of making threats to kill, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He is due to appear in court in London next month. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Teresa Palmer is heavily pregnant with her fifth child and positively glowing (as usual) when she joins me to talk about her role in The Family Next Door, a six-part ABC drama series in which she plays a woman who moves into a quiet suburban cul de sac near the beach and rapidly proceeds to blow it all apart. At its core, The Family Next Door is about the tension that exists between perception and truth, says Palmer, who plays Isabelle, a woman who arrives in Pleasant Court claiming to be a journalist looking to write a travel piece, but whose real reason for being there will wreak havoc on the tight-knit community. All these people in this cul-de-sac have crafted these perfect little lives on the outside, but on the inside theyre dealing with trauma and chaos and shame and longing. The series peels back that glossy facade, and its very revealing, which is wonderful. Isabelle is not an especially likeable character, though. She lies and steals and hides her true motives. She stomps around, emanates rage even when shes eating her food or drinking a beer, and immerses herself in ice baths any time it all threatens to become too much (which is often). Dominic Ona-Ariki and Palmer in the series. I think theres a self-centeredness about Isabelle, she says of her character, whom she describes as a disruptor. She has such a mission that shes eagle-eyed focused on, and it doesnt matter the ruin that is left in its wake she is chasing something with this reckless abandon, and its not necessarily the best thing for everyone. Based on a novel by Sally Hepworth, the series has been adapted by Sarah Scheller (The Letdown, Strife) and is directed by Emma Freeman (The Newsreader, Fake). And while it has distinct echoes of the work of Liane Moriarty whose Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers and Apples Never Fall have been so successfully adapted for screen in recent years theres a pleasing and more grounded nuance to the way the characters and relationships are portrayed. Advertisement Bella Heathcote plays Ange, the real estate agent with ambitions to become a developer and transform the sleepy seaside town. She leases the short-term rental to Isabelle, lives next door, frantically curates a perfect version of what she wants life to be, and hovers over the cul-de-sac like something between a guardian angel and a tyrant. Bella Heathcotes Ange is the unofficial guardian angel/tyrant of Pleasant Court. Credit: ABC TV Her husband is Lucas (Bob Morley), a handsome photographer-surfer-layabout, who may or may not be having an affair. Lawyer Fran (Ming-Zhu Hii) is married to Nigel (Daniel Henshall), a depressed and lethargic PhD candidate. Lulu (Jane Harber) and Holly (Maria Angelico) run a vegan cafe. Essie (Philippa Northeast) is struggling with post-natal depression and exhaustion after the birth of her second child, and with the fact she and husband Ben (Tane Williams-Accra) are so broke theyve had to move back in with her mother, Barbara (Catherine McClements). Loading Everyones kids, meanwhile, run from yard to yard on ad hoc play dates, while the parents take every opportunity for impromptu drinks on deck chairs as the summer heat bakes the bitumen and sprinklers sprinkle. Its Neighbours meets Home and Away, with a dash of something much darker the Australian dream teetering on the brink of a nightmare. There are cracks beneath the surface for all these people, and Isabelles presence is the breakdown to break through, says Palmer. I mean, theres absolutely no sustainability in living this veneered life without actually getting under the surface, so I think my character is necessary for the growth of everyone. Advertisement Not that shes judging. I actually feel like I identify with all of them, says Palmer. Theres little pieces of each one of these women that I can relate to. Relatability is Palmers secret sauce. Though shes been working steadily as an actress since 2006, the 39-year-old has also built a parallel identity as a blogger, podcaster and social media personality with a focus on wellness and motherhood. Ming-Zhu Hii, Lily Cao Milburn and Daniel Henshall in The Family Next Door. In January, she and her partner (American actor/filmmaker Mark Webber) and their kids (her boys are eight and 11, her girls are four and six) relocated to Byron Bay. Loading Weve always split our time between Los Angeles and Adelaide, she says. That was always the back and forth, and also wherever Im filming we would all just move to the location. But I was like, All right, lets get pregnant and go to Byron Bay, put the kids in school and buy a house. And thats what weve done. Byron seems the perfect backdrop for the yummy mummy persona Palmer projects in her web presence. And by her own reckoning, its not just a projection. I have this joy-filled life, my dream life, she says, and somehow it doesnt come across as boastful. Advertisement But her choice of screen roles couldnt make for a starker contrast. Isabelle is a dark character full of rage, fuelled by trauma in her past. In the Disney+ series The Clearing, loosely based on the true story of Melbourne cult The Family, she was an adult wrestling with the complex relationship with the mother (Miranda Otto) who had abducted her as a young child. She has, in fact, been drawn to dark roles since the very start of her career, having made her debut in 2:37, a film about a suicide at an Adelaide high school. I am drawn to these darker characters who have an evolution from the start to the end, she says. In The Clearing, my character was a broken flower, a little bit lost. But in this, theres such a drive in Isabelle. Its unrelenting, and then theres an aggressiveness to the character, which is really exciting to explore. I really love that trauma shows up and manifests itself in different behaviours. Theres no right way to deal with trauma. Everyone handles it differently. On the surface, it would appear theres not a lot of trauma in her life. So what does she draw on for these roles? Whine oclock: Ange (Bella Heathcote), Lulu (Jane Harber) and Essie (Philippa Northeast) chew the fat. Credit: ABC TV Its funny, I always try to derive from my own past experiences, she says. Of course, I have little traumas and things I went through that were not necessarily easy in my life. Me and my mum growing up together, just her and I, and her having schizo-affective disorder, it wasnt easy. But I still had the best childhood. All I knew was love. And these characters dont have that. Advertisement The husband of Queenslands Assistant Finance Minister was appointed secretary of the consortium behind Brisbane Queens Wharf development earlier this year, estimates hearings have revealed. But Finance Minister Ros Bates has rebuffed questions about any conflict of interest involving her deputy. Lawyer Adam Stoker the husband of Assistant Finance Minister Amanda Stoker was appointed in April as the secretary for two companies: Destination Brisbane Consortium Integrated Resort Holdings Pty Ltd and Destination Brisbane Consortium Integrated Resort Operations Pty Ltd. Amanda Stokers husband Adam Stoker is the secretary for the Destination Brisbane Consortium. Credit: Sky News The consortium, which comprises the embattled Star Entertainment Group, Hong Kong-based Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and Far East Consortium, is behind the massive Queens Wharf development fronting the Brisbane River. Loading Bates was quizzed during todays budget estimates hearings by shadow treasurer Shannon Fentiman about her role in negotiations around the financial position of Queens Wharf. Company extract information from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, tabled by Fentiman, shows Adam Stoker was appointed to the roles on April 28. Bates repeatedly declined to directly answer whether she knew of the huge conflict of interest, but said a conflict management plan is in place, and the assistant minister has had no contact [with the companies involved]. Regardless, Margaretic said, records showed Marco still had a perfect payment record with his clients over the eight-year period relating to the offences. Everyone was paid as they were promised to be paid, for all the time they invested with my client, he said. Margaretic said it was telling only seven of Marcos more than 150 clients were participating in the court case against him, and some had even experienced a net positive through investing with him. With respect, no one held a gun to these peoples heads, Margaretic said. They could have walked away with their money whenever they so pleased. Margaretic said Australian Securities and Investments Commission investigators had looked into whether the money had gone to islands, private jets, boats, but had turned up nothing. Every cent was accounted for, he said. As long as his investors received their very, very handsome interest payments they didnt care where it went. Anyone can make a bad investment and lose money on an investment, but that does not mean there was no investment. Marissens lawyer Simon Freitag said his client had a long-running working relationship with Marco, but her position meant she did not have insight into any alleged offending. She types emails occasionally witness documents, makes phone calls, he said. Loading She does all of those things at [Marcos] direction. Freitag said her executive assistant title was not accurate, as she was more of an assistant than an executive. [Marcos] the brains of the operation she works for him, Freitag said. The court was told Marissen would occasionally complete transactions with Marcos supervision. There is no evidence that she knew or understood the investment plans that he talked about with investors that she knew what was going on, Freitag said. She simply helped the administrative wheels tun without any great insight to what is going on. Client gives evidence Sydney executive Andrew Batchelar told the court he invested more than $800,000 over the eight years he worked with Marco. He said he was introduced to Marco through a colleague, and they met in person at a seafood lunch in 2011 when Batchelar was visiting Perth. He said he agreed to invest, and Marco talked him through his strategy which involved placing money into Marcos bank account with other investors to boost the balance. Batchelar told the court it was called private placements, and Marco promised him a generous return for his investment. Batchelar often invested hundreds of thousands of dollars at a time over a number of years, and frequently withdrew his money if necessary. Id invested some money, obviously interest had been earned and that was returned to me, he said. This gave me confidence that what was being said to be done, was being done. When asked by Whybrow if the generous return rate usually exceeding 11 per cent was too good to be true, Batchelar agreed. Certainly looking at it now, it probably does, he said. In one of his investments, Batchelar said he noted Marco kept one of his accounts on the Channel Islands. The account was blocked and used as insurance for clients in case their money was lost. Documentation shown to the court detailed how the account promised to have $1 million dollars in it as a surety, but bank statements showed it only had a couple of hundred dollars in it at most. WA Police Minister Paul Papalia has fielded questions this afternoon about a Kwinana-bound oil tanker that Ukrainian campaigners claim is carrying Russian crude. The Seferis has been sitting around 10 kilometres off the coast of City Beach for two days now after departing India earlier this month. The Greek-flagged vessel contains oil from Jamnagar refinery in India, which processes Russian crude. The oil tanker off the WA coast on Monday afternoon. Credit: 9 News Perth Australia has sanctions imposed on Russian imports in response to its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. These include restrictions on importing, purchasing and transporting oil that originated in Russia. Papalia said he was unable to intervene in the Commonwealth matter, but said everyone in the western world should be alert to the threat of Russia getting around sanctions by sneaky means. A spokesperson for Foreign Minister Penny Wong said, regrettably, the mechanisms Australia would need to track and monitor all energy products via third countries are not in place in those countries. We are evaluating options to place further pressure on Russias oil revenues, they said. We remain steadfast in our support for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine. We will continue taking action to deny Russia access to Australias markets and ensure Australia does not inadvertently fund Russias war machine. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has signalled he believes Gaza will be freed from Hamas rule, paving the way for recognition of a Palestinian state, as he slammed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus claims that Gazans are not starving. Asked by pro-Palestine backbencher Ed Husic on the timeline for Australia to recognise a Palestinian state in the Labor caucus on Tuesday, Albanese repeated his criticism of Hamas role in prolonging the conflict but implored Israel to end the violence. A charity distributes meals to Palestinians facing food shortages amid ongoing Israeli attacks and severe restrictions in Gaza on July 28. Credit: Getty Images While there is a caveat on any information provided by Hamas, it is Israel that has prevented any journalists getting in, Albanese said. Those claims that there is no starvation are beyond comprehension. He was directly referring to remarks from deputy Israeli ambassador to Australia Amir Meron, who told journalists in a briefing on Monday that claims of starvation amounted to Hamas propaganda and relied on false pictures presenting a distorted view. Israels blockade of food from March until May led to a rise in hunger across the territory. Since ending some restrictions in late May, Israel has largely reconstituted the way that food is distributed. In doing so, Israel made it more dangerous for Palestinians to get that food. Hundreds have been shot and killed by Israeli soldiers along the routes to new distribution sites. The outcome has resulted in a rare level of censure from Israels allies. Key partners such as Britain and Germany called for the war to end. France said it would recognise a Palestinian state. The secretary-general of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, called the situation a moral crisis that challenges the global conscience. Loading Before Israel started the blockade and broke the truce, Palestinians in Gaza were already suffering some of the worst conditions in a century of conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. A vast majority of the population was displaced, and most of the buildings in the territory were damaged, the United Nations said. Then the resumption of war felt as if someone had shut off the last source of life, said Karam Rabah, a civil servant in central Gaza. We thought wed survived the worst, then it got even worse. The truce from January to March had brought some respite, said Rabah, who is paid by the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority, a rival of Hamas. Children went back to some kind of learning; families returned to their homes, he said. Then the fighting restarted, and homes that had survived were suddenly gone, and even food became scarce, he added. I never thought that I would fight for a kilogram of flour for my kids. As Palestinians suffer on one side of the border, Israelis on the other side are questioning what has been achieved through the return to war. As in earlier phases of the conflict, the wars protraction has allowed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to keep his ruling coalition intact, extending his tenure. A New York Times investigation has found that Netanyahu has dragged out the war partly for political reasons, in order to avoid upsetting key far-right partners who threatened their resignation if the war ended. Netanyahu denies the accusation, saying he has continued the war in the Israeli national interest. But his critics say the wars extension is at odds with the interests of Israeli hostages. It brings added risk to Israeli soldiers, who are still regularly killed in Gaza in service of a strategy that, to many, feels fruitless. It is a strain on reservist soldiers, who are repeatedly called up from their day jobs. And it has heightened the risk to Israelis travelling overseas, who increasingly report hostility from the people they meet, in addition to the criticism levelled at Israel from foreign governments and officials. Theres a diplomatic tsunami against Israel like nothing anyone has ever seen, said Shira Efron, a Tel Aviv-based analyst for Israel Policy Forum, a research group in New York. During a recent work trip to Washington, Efron said she detected an unusual level of frustration in meetings with officials and analysts usually supportive of Israel. IDF soldiers mourn a colleague killed by Hamas rocket fire in 2024. Credit: Getty Images It was very clear from American politicians on both sides of the aisle even Republican politicians and affiliated national security experts that there is complete disapproval of the images coming from Gaza, she said. Even those who think Hamas was at fault for the situation thought that Israel needs to change its position. Whether youre Republican or Democrat, you dont want to see children starve. Even Israelis who broadly support the governments return to war say the approach has not achieved its goal. Their solution, however, is different: In their view, Israel should have attacked far harder than it did in the past months and must do so now. For months, the Israeli military has largely stayed away from the most densely populated areas of Gaza, where the remaining Israeli hostages are believed to be held. Right-wing Israelis say that Israel should invade and occupy those areas, even if it endangers the hostages. With much of Gaza in ruins, many Palestinians starving and Hamas still in power, questions on Israels strategy grow ever-louder. Credit: Bloomberg We need to stop everything, occupy the strip from end to end, Moshe Saada, a lawmaker from Netanyahus party, said in a television interview on Monday. Others say Israel was right to break the truce in March, but wrong to do so without a clearly communicated plan for how Gaza would be governed in future. Weve made big investments in local leadership because thats what brokers want, Thomas said. From tech to compliance to diversification, its about helping brokers get the most out of every part of their business, and having someone in their corner who gets it. In addition to Croucher and Wood's promotion, Willsallen was elevated to head of broker distribution in February. This was followed in April by the appointment of former ING executive Ray Esho as general manager for NSW and the ACT. In May, Carolyn McCann began her role as acting chief executive of the consumer bank division. Looking at the all-new Suzuki Fronx? Suzuki Philippines is giving you two reasons why you should go for the Early Reservation Promo which ru... GARDAI are investigating a burglary that occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning on Browne Street in Carlow town. A lone male broke into a residential property at approximately 5.25am on 26 July, according to reports made to gardai. The incident was captured on the homeowners CCTV system, although the perpetrator has not yet been identified. The property owners reported that while the house seemed to have been searched, nothing appeared to have been taken during the break-in. The man left the premises after conducting the search. No other burglaries were reported in the area on the same date. Gardai are appealing for any witnesses who may have been in the Browne Street area around 5.25am on Saturday morning to come forward with information that may assist with their investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Carlow Garda Station or the Garda Confidential Line. SUPERMARKET chain Lidl has been given the green light by the planning watchdog An Coimisiun Pleanala to build a supermarket in Baltinglass. Fine Gael TD Edward Timmins revealed that he had been in contact with the planning authority and they confirmed that planning had been granted for the Lidl supermarket in the town. This is welcome news and will give consumers further choices for shopping. In further good news for Baltinglass with regards to a footbridge over the River Slaney, deputy Timmins added: I have been lobbying for a couple of years for a footbridge over the Slaney river in Baltinglass beside the existing bridge. Following discussions with senior officials the project will be moved on, according to deputy Timmins. Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), who are responsible for the national roads, are supportive of the project and have now agreed funding to bring the project to planning. I will continue to lobby to ensure this project comes to fruition. Alison ORiordan A 42-year-old man with "an acquired brain injury" has pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of a woman in the north of Dublin city nearly a year ago. At a brief arraignment at the Central Criminal Court on Tuesday, Matthias Kelly, of no fixed abode in Coolock in Dublin, pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of Fiona Timmermans at Newbury Lawns, Clonshaugh in Dublin 17 on September 7th 2024. Kelly also pleaded guilty to having entered a building known as Newbury Lawns in Clonshaugh as a trespasser, to commit an arrestable offence therein, to wit, attempted murder on the same occasion. The defendant further pleaded guilty to producing in a manner likely unlawfully to intimidate another person, an article capable of inflicting serious injury, to wit, a kitchen knife with a serrated blade, in the course of a dispute on the same occasion. In addition, Kelly admitted making a threat to kill Ms Timmermans at an unknown location within the State on September 1st 2024, intending her to believe it would be carried out. Kelly also pleaded guilty to damaging property without lawful excuse, to wit, the sitting room window and front bedroom window belonging to Jennifer Barror, intending such property or being reckless as to whether such property would be damaged at Millbrook Avenue, Coolock in Dublin 13 on September 6th 2024. Defence counsel James Dwyer SC told the court that a trial date of January 26th, 2026, had previously been set and that could now be vacated. Mr Dwyer informed Mr Justice Paul McDermott that Kelly has an acquired brain injury, which appeared to be operative at the time these offences were committed. Counsel asked the court to grant legal aid for a medical report, which was acceded to. Brendan Grehan SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said there would be victim impact evidence on the next date. Mr Dwyer said he was also seeking a governor's, probation, and educational reports for his client, as well as a urine analysis. Mr Justice McDermott directed that these reports and victim impact statements be prepared and adjourned the matter to November 10th, when a sentence hearing will take place. Olivia Kelleher A man in his late 60s has died in a workplace accident in Macroom in Co Cork. The accident occurred at a family owned pallet company on Monday afternoon. The emergency services were called to the scene and the employee was transferred to Cork University Hospital (CUH) where he was pronounced dead. The coroner has been notified and a postmortem examination will be completed at CUH. An inquest will take place at a later date. The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has confirmed that a death occurred at a business premises in Co Cork. The HSA is aware of the fatal incident and has launched an investigation. As such, no further information is available at this time. Cork North West Fianna Fail TD, Aindrias Moynihan, said that it was sad to hear of such a tragic event at a local place of work. You go to work to do business and you expect to come home safe. It is very tough for his work colleagues, family and anyone who knows him. The Garda Press Office confirmed that gardai and emergency services attended at the scene of a fatal workplace accident in Macroom on Monday. "A male aged in his 60s was taken from the scene to Cork University Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. "The Health and Safety Authority (HAS) has been notified and will conduct an examination. Fiona Ferguson A man who beat his former partner with a hoover pole has been given a two-year sentence. The Central Criminal Court heard that the woman was left with extensive bruising and cuts to her face, neck, arm, hands, shoulder and legs. She suffered carpet burns from being dragged across the sitting room floor The 45-year-old accused man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to assault of the woman causing her harm and production of a hoover pole at his home, in February 2022. The accused man had been on trial twice on a further allegation of anal rape of the woman on the same occasion but the jury disagreed in both trials. He had pleaded not guilty to this offence. The Director of Public Prosecutions has entered a nolle prosequi in relation to the rape charge, meaning the charge has been dropped. The man has a previous conviction for assault which occurred after the woman made the rape allegation against him. He served a four-month sentence for this offence. The woman did not wish to make a victim impact statement to the court. Passing sentence on Monday, Mr Justice Patrick McGrath said the woman had suffered a considerable number of injuries and the court must take the level of violence involved very seriously. He set a headline sentence of three years to reflect the offending. The judge noted in mitigation the early guilty plea and the man's expressions of remorse. He noted there was a subsequent assault for which the defendant has already served a sentence. Mr Justice McGrath sentenced the accused man to two years' imprisonment which he backdated to reflect the time he has already spent in custody. An investigating garda told Garrett McCormack BL, prosecuting, that the woman reported to gardai that she had been assaulted by the man. She told gardai that there had been a verbal argument in respect of alleged cheating and he became aggressive and threw her to the ground. He assaulted her with the pipe of a hoover, striking her several times, and broke a glass panel in the kitchen door. The assault continued into the sitting room where she was punched and struck and hit again with the hoover pipe. The accused was arrested, denied the rape allegation and gave a mixed version of events to gardai. The court heard a decision was later made to charge him with anal rape and the second assault, for which he has already served a sentence, occurred in an effort to get her to withdraw her statement. Joanne Williams BL, defending, said the couple had ben in an on-off relationship at the time and living separately. She said both parties were abusing substances of one kind or another. She said the accused has a good work history prior to going into custody after giving up his bail voluntarily. She handed in character references on the accused mans behalf. She asked the court to take into account his early guilty plea in relation to the assault and had expressed remorse in relation to the assault to the injured party during the first trail. She said he has asked her to re-iterate this and apologise to the woman. She said he has recognised that alcohol is at the root of his offending and wants to engage with AA. By Rebecca Black, PA Defendants have been convicted in Beirut of the killing of an Irish peacekeeper in 2022, the Minister for Foreign Affairs has said. Sean Rooney (24), from Newtowncunningham in Co Donegal, was killed when a convoy of Irish troops serving with a UN peacekeeping force was ambushed and fired upon on December 14th, 2022. The shooting happened near the town of Al-Aqbiya in the south of Lebanon, a stronghold of Hezbollah. Pte Rooney, from the 121 Infantry Battalion of the Defence Forces, was killed. The Military Tribunal in Beirut for those indicted for the murder of Private Sean Rooney has concluded. This is an incredibly difficult day for the family of Private Rooney. None of us can fathom their unimaginable pain & grief and all my thoughts remain with them at this time pic.twitter.com/MKt1BHX2eY Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) July 28, 2025 On Monday, Simon Harris said he had been informed of the completion of a military tribunal in Beirut for those indicted for the murder of Pte Rooney. I welcome the conviction of the main defendant and a number of the other defendants, who had not previously been in court, he said. While noting the sentence handed down to the main defendant, I am disappointed and share the disappointment of Pte Rooneys family at the lighter sentences imposed on a number of those convicted today. Sean Rooney made the ultimate sacrifice in the noble pursuit of peace. This is a difficult time for his family and his colleagues, especially those who were injured that night. All our thoughts are with them at this time. The Tanaiste said he pressed the case during his visit to Beirut in March during meetings with the Lebanese Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Defence. Tanaiste Simon Harris meets troops during his visit to Camp Shamrock in Lebanon in March. Photo: Niall Carson/PA I raised, in the strongest terms, my deep frustration at the slow pace of proceedings before the Lebanese Military Tribunal concerning those charged with Pte Rooneys killing, he said. I appreciate, therefore, the efforts of the court to bring forward the hearing date from September to today. During my visit to Beirut, I left the Lebanese ministers in no doubt as to the absolute determination of the Irish Government to ensure that those responsible for Private Rooneys death are brought to justice. I want to express my appreciation to my officials, members of the Defence Forces, Irelands Ambassador to Lebanon, Irelands Honorary Consul to Lebanon, and the Departments Lebanese lawyer, all of whom attended todays hearing along with a member of Seans family. He added: Finally, I appreciate that this is an incredibly difficult day for the family of Private Rooney. None of us can fathom their unimaginable pain and grief and all my thoughts remain with them at this time. A CARLOW woman who was caught speeding at 181kph in Laois has kept her driving licence, after paying 5,000 to a hospice. The 22-year-olds case was adjourned at Portlaoise District Court in June, after she admitted vastly exceeding the 120kph motorway speed limit on the M7 at Cappakeel on 18 May 2025, when she was aged 21. Judge Andrew Cody agreed to reduce a dangerous driving charge, which carries an automatic disqualification, to one of careless driving, on condition that she paid a 5,000 donation to North Tipperary Hospice before 24 July. At a recent sitting of Portlaoise court, Caoimhe Dunne Brennan of 10 Schoolhouse Gate, Ballinkillen, Bagenalstown, Co Carlow produced a receipt showing that she paid the full donation. At the original hearing, Garda Roy Cooper said he stopped the defendant driving a 161-registered BMW 420 at 11.30am, after recording the high speed. The driver said she was travelling back from Dublin, there was no alcohol in her system, and she had no previous convictions. Defending solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was originally from Carlow but is living in Tipperary, where she is a very highly regarded social care worker with RehabCare. Her driving licence is essential to her employment. The solicitor said Ms Dunne Brennan had brought 3,000 to court in the hope of avoiding the loss of her licence by making a donation. He said: She is potentially going to lose everything due to a moment of madness. Garda Cooper confirmed for Judge Cody that the woman was very unlikely to reoffend, adding: She is one of the few that you wont see back before you. The judge said that, while it was a huge speed, he would reduce the charge to careless driving subject to a higher donation of 5,000. At the resumed hearing, Mr Fitzgerald recalled that glowing references were submitted on his clients behalf and members of her family were supporting her in court. He said: What happened appears to be an aberration and it is certainly not going to happen again. Ms Dunne Brennan was convicted of careless driving, with no disqualification. Advertisement Total shipments of Portland and blended cement, including imports, in the USA and Puerto Rico amounted to 9.048Mt in April, down 1.4 per cent YoY from the 9.179Mt recorded in April 2024. Excluding for sales to Puerto Rico and overseas territories, cement consumption in the USA fell 1.3 per cent YoY in April, coming in at 8.940Mt, compared to 9.057Mt a year earlier. The key producing states for Portland and blended cement were, in descending order: Texas, Missouri, California, Florida and Alabama. The key consuming states were, in descending order: Texas, California, Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. Blended cement shipments amounted to 5.703Mt in April, up 10.7 per cent YoY from 5.151Mt a year earlier, with Florida the leading consumer. Masonry cement shipments amounted to 191,969t, down 5.1 per cent YoY from 202,211t a year earlier, with Florida the leading consumer. Clinker production, excluding Puerto Rico, saw a 4.4 per cent YoY decline in April to 5.260Mt. Imports of cement and clinker amounted to 2.180Mt in April, down 4.7 per cent YoY from 2.289Mt in April 2024, while imported clinker amounted to 167,687t, up from 46,277t in April 2024. January-April 2025 Total shipments of Portland and blended cement, including imports, in the USA and Puerto Rico amounted to 28.951Mt in the January-April 2025 period, down 5.5 per cent YoY from the 30.626Mt recorded in the same period of 2024. Excluding for sales to Puerto Rico and overseas territories, cement consumption in the USA was 5.5 per cent lower YtD, coming in at 28.486Mt, compared to 30.146t a year earlier. Blended cement shipments amounted to 17.798Mt in 4M25, up 4.7 per cent YoY from 16.342Mt in 4M24. Masonry cement shipments amounted to 670,0258t in 4M25, down 8.5 per cent YoY from 731,944t in 4M24. Clinker production, excluding Puerto Rico, saw a 12.6 per cent YoY decline to 18.122Mt from 20.733Mt. Imports of cement and clinker amounted to 7.3Mt in 4M25, down 6.2 per cent YoY from 7.783Mt in the same period of 2024. Imported clinker amounted to 244,555t, up 4.7 per cent YoY from 233,659t in January-April 2024. Officials said Bradley Medical Center and Bradley Physician Services will be out-of-network with United Healthcare unless a deal is reached by Aug. 1. Officials said, "Effective Aug. 1, 2024, Vitruvian Health Care System acquired the Cleveland, Tennessee Hospital, now operating as Bradley Medical Center. Since the acquisition, Vitruvian has collaborated with major insurance carriers, including United Healthcare, to assume insurance contracts. "Negotiations to extend the insurance agreement and maintain in-network status are ongoing.Unfortunately, Bradley Medical Center and Bradley Physician Services are expected to be out-of-network with United Healthcare starting Aug. 1." Jeff Myers, president and chief executive officer for Vitruvian Health Care System, said, This is not what we want. Our goal is to provide our community compassionate care with excellence, every person, every time. As a not-for-profit organization, serving and supporting our community are our priorities. At this time, Vitruvian has invested over $200 million into the community., Lisa Lovelace, president and chief executive officer of Bradley Medical Center, said, With the continued support of Vitruvian Health Care System, Bradley Medical Center has undergone a transformation inside and outside of the facility. We have accomplished a lot in a year that includes recruiting quality compassionate associates, and highly experienced healthcare providers in specialties such as Heart and Vascular, OB/GYN, Orthopedics and Primary Care. "We have expanded Behavioral Health services by starting Intensive Outpatient Services and opened our new Womens Imaging Center with the most up-to-date technology. We are Chest Pain Accredited and a Stroke-ready facility. Our Orthopedic program has The Joint Commission Gold Seal of Approval in disease certification for total hip and knee joint replacement and Blue Distinction with Blue Cross Blue Shield for total hip and knee replacement. We have no plans to stop investing and growing healthcare resources in Cleveland/Bradley County. "Vitruvian has negotiated in good faith with United Healthcare since August of 2024 and is disappointed that a reasonable result has not yet been achieved. We value you and we are concerned that thousands of lives in Cleveland/Bradley County may be without quality healthcare resources, close to home. their website is "As we continue to work with United in advance of the Aug. 1 deadline, we encourage those who have Uniteds Commercial and Medicare Advantage Plans to reach out to United and let them know how important it is for Bradley Medical Center to stay in-network. You can contact United Healthcare member services phone by calling 883-731-2153, andtheir website is www.uhc.com "Vitruvian Health Care System remains committed to quality care and is negotiating in good faith to reach a resolution that benefits the community. Vitruvian will continue to work diligently to preserve network coverage and ensure continued access to high-quality, local healthcare." Why would anybody that has been accepted at some of our peer state university med schools go to Memphis? Crime would be enough to keep a great majority saying, "Thanks, but no thanks." Accepted at the University of Kentucky, you want to live in Lexington or Memphis.How about South Carolina, Columbia or Memphis. This one really hurts, the University of Alabama, Birmingham or Memphis. I know we have many superbly qualified med students in Memphis, but how many do we lose because they don't want to live with their families in the most dangerous city in the country? Memphis is almost as bad in education for the kids of those who would attend med school. Despite spending as much as any system in the state ($13,097 per student) with the exception of Nashville Metro, Memphis schools are ranked Number 87 out of 137 districts by Niche. Before you ask, Hamilton spends $11,841 per student and is ranked Number 41. Looks like our people are doing pretty well with what they have. Where would be a perfect location for the med school? Well, UTC already has a highly ranked nursing and physical therapy curriculum. Siskin is ranked third nationally for their physical rehab programs. CHI Memorial is consistently ranked in the Top 2 or 3 hospitals in the state. Could you envision turning 3rd Street into a medical corridor anchored at one end by Siskin, T.C. Thompson Childrens Hospital and Erlanger and at the other end CHI Memorial with the med school campus smack dab in the middle? UTK and UTC have highly ranked programs in business and engineering. Why not a medical school in Chattanooga? Douglas Jones How embarrassing is it to have our state's flagship university's medical campus located in the most dangerous city in the country according to Wallet Hub. Or even more so the 10th most dangerous city in the world according to another ranking. Memphis is the only city in North America and Europe to be ranked in the Top 10 worldwide. I guess the only positive to being in Memphis would be for an aspiring student wanting to be a Trauma/Emergency Room specialist. They certainly would obtain a lot of OJT in Memphis. * * * I agree with Doug Jones' opinion. Let us not forget that we have another state medical school in Johnson City, Tn. ETSU's Quillen School of Medicine. Charles Paty With new telephone numbers in high demand, the Tennessee Public Utility Commission approved the addition of the new 729 area code to the existing 423 area code region, which covers two non-contiguous regions in eastern Tennessee, serving communities such as Bristol, Chattanooga, Johnson City and Kingsport, as well as many other smaller communities. This process is known as an area code overlay.The overlay does not require customers to change their existing area code, but will require dialing the area code and the 7-digit telephone number to complete local calls.All customers with the 423 area code should prepare for mandatory 10-digit dialing and the introduction of the new 729 area code.Starting Aug. 5, all local calls made within the 423 area code must be dialed using 10 digits (area code + the 7-digit telephone number). On and after this date, calls using just 7 digits will not be completed, and will be routed to an announcement.Starting Sept. 5, new telephone lines or services may be assigned numbers from the new 729 area code. The new 729 area code will co-exist everywhere in this region with the 423 area code. Anyone receiving a 729 number will be required to dial 10 digits as well.The key facts to know about the 423/729 area code overlay are: Current telephone numbers, including current area code, will not change. Dial 10 digits for all local calls, including calls within the same area code. Continue to dial 1 + area code + telephone number for long distance calls. What is a local call now will remain a local call. The price of a call, coverage area, or other rates and services will not change due to the overlay. You can still dial just three digits to reach 911 and 988, as well as 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711 and 811 where available.To prepare for the new dialing procedure: Identify your telephone number as a 10-digit number and include the area code when giving the number to friends, family, business associates and customers, etc. Ensure all services, automatic dialing equipment, or other types of equipment that are programmed to dial a 7-digit number are reprogrammed to include the area code and to recognize the new 729 area code as a valid area code. Some examples include life-safety systems and medical monitoring devices, alarm and security systems or gates, cordless and mobile phone contact lists, fax machines, internet dial-up numbers, ankle monitors, speed dialers, call forwarding settings, voicemail services, and other similar functions. Many systems operate on 10-digit dialing by default, but some older equipment may still use 7 digits. Please contact your medical alert or security provider if you are not sure whether your equipment needs to be reprogrammed to accommodate the upcoming change to 10-digit local dialing. Any needed reprogramming of such alarm and home security equipment must be completed no later than Aug. 5. Update websites, personal and business stationery and checks, advertising materials, personal and pet ID tags, and other such items to ensure the area code is included.For additional information, visit the Tennessee Public Utility Commission website at https://www.tn.gov/tpuc/news.html or contact your local telephone service provider. The Hamilton County Health Department, WillowBend Farms, The Family Justice Center, and Vision Hospitality Group partner with local organizations to participate in the Red Sand Project, raising awareness about human trafficking. The Red Sand Project uses sand artwork as a way for people to come together and connect, raising awareness about human trafficking, modern slavery, and exploitation. The red sand symbolizes the human trafficking victims who fall through the cracks of our society every day. Despite ongoing efforts and improvements, human trafficking continues to be a significant public health issue in our community. The Red Sand Project is a powerful reminder that human trafficking happens here, and we cant afford to look away. At the Dr. Carol B. Berz Family Justice Center, we stand in solidarity with the community to raise awareness and fulfill our mission of promoting safety, healing, and justice for all, says Regina McDevitt, M.Ed. Executive Director. We invite everyone to join uslearn the signs, speak out, and be part of the solution. According to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, human trafficking is a crime driven by demand that involves the exploitation of individuals for labor, services, or commercial sex acts. This crime affects men, women, and children alike. Human trafficking is one of the fastest-growing criminal industries in the United States, with cases reported in all 50 states. The National Human Trafficking Hotline reported that in 2024, Tennessee had 213 cases of human trafficking, involving a total of 446 victims, as each case can include multiple victims. The Health Department is dedicated to combating human trafficking and proudly partners with local leaders like WillowBend Farms and The Family Justice Center to support survivors. We urge Hamilton County residents to unite this week to raise awareness about this pressing issue that impacts our community. Together, we can show that human trafficking has no place in Hamilton County, says Beka Bohannon, Administrator of Health and Social Services. This year's Red Sand is pivotal as the Chattanooga community has taken giant strides in both the efforts towards prevention of human trafficking and the restoration of survivors over the past twelve months, and we look forward to sharing those updates. Additionally, a significant announcement is forthcoming that will impact the Chattanooga and surrounding regions. Let us come together with One Voice to promote no survivors falling through the cracks! says Sarah McKinnis, co-founder and CEO of WillowBend Farms. If you know someone who needs help to escape trafficking, contact the Tennessee Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-855-558-6484. If you suspect you have encountered a victim of human trafficking, you may call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. As part of outreach efforts regarding Human Trafficking Awareness, a Red Sand Project event will be held on Friday, August 1st, at 10 a.m. at the Aloft Hotel. Due to limited space, please RSVP. Tracy Reed, DNP, MBA, RN, has been named chief operating officer of Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation. With four decades of hands-on and healthcare management experience, Reed brings a patient-focused mind-set to the role, helping ensure a safe, productive, and successful environment for patients, visitors, and hospital associates. My ultimate goal is for each part of the organization to come together to provide the highest level of patient care, Reed said. From our environmental services department to the ongoing facility renovationsits all about the patients. Reed has served at Siskin Hospital since 2015 as vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer. She will continue in this role alongside her new position as COO. She holds a doctorate in nursing practice from American Sentinel University, an MBA from Kennesaw State University, and a BSN from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Additionally, Reed holds multiple certifications including Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. She truly understands and believes in the mission of Siskin Hospital, which is essential to successfully fulfilling this role, said Matt Gibson, Ph.D., FACHE, President and CEO of Siskin Hospital. I am confident she will continue to bring innovation to our organization. In addition to her work at Siskin Hospital, Reed serves as a part-time faculty member in Lee Universitys doctor of nursing practice program. She has been a member of the Cleveland, Tennessee community for over 10 years. About Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation is recognized nationally for superior patient outcomes. Dedicated exclusively to physical medicine and rehabilitation, the hospital offers specialized treatment programs in brain injury, amputation, stroke, spinal cord injury, orthopedics, and major multiple traumas. The hospital also offers treatment for neurological disorders and loss of muscle strength and control following illness or surgery. Siskin Hospital is the only freestanding, nonprofit, physical rehabilitation hospital in Tennessee. In addition to inpatient acute and subacute care, the hospital has six outpatient clinics in Tennessee and Georgia. The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) has been awarded $1,200,000 in state awarded federal funding through the Tennessee Department of Transportations (TDOT) Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program. With an additional required 20 percent local match from the city of Chattanooga, this brings the total investment to $1.5 million to support the purchase of three new all-electric shuttle vehicles, expanding and modernizing CARTAs nationally recognized zero-emission shuttle service, officials said. This award represents a major step forward in our mission to provide clean, convenient, and accessible transportation options to the Chattanooga community, said Charles Frazier, CEO of CARTA. By replacing vehicles and expanding our fleet of all-electric shuttles, were not only improving rider experience but also reaffirming our commitment to environmental responsibility and downtown vitality. The CMAQ Program is a federally funded initiative designed to help state and local governments reduce vehicle emissions and traffic congestion in areas that do not meet federal air quality standards. CARTAs proposal was selected through a competitive scoring process, based on its strong potential to reduce emissions and enhance the regions transportation network. The funding will allow CARTA to strengthen its Park Once strategy by supporting access to CARTA-managed garages, where visitors can park and ride for free. Officials said, "With First Hour Free parking at Shuttle Park North and Shuttle Park South paired with zero-fare electric shuttles, riders can explore downtown, St. Elmo, the Southside, and North Shore without needing to move their car. These updates not only reduce traffic congestion and emissions - they also enhance the rider experience and help connect people with local shops, restaurants, and attractions, reinforcing Chattanoogas commitment to accessible, sustainable urban mobility." The new all-electric shuttles, expected to go into service following procurement and delivery, will feature upgraded technology and air conditioning - helping CARTA deliver a modern transit experience while contributing to a cleaner, healthier Chattanooga, it was stated. Screenshot: YouTube/ Tucker Carlson Network In an interview with Tucker Carlson earlier this week, Evangelical Christian and conservative activist Charlie Kirk praised what he described as a really positive trend happening across the United States: young men are returning to church. Kirk, who also identifies as a Calvinist, explained why he thinks young men are choosing Catholic and Orthodox churches in particular: They want something that is lasting. They want something that is ancient, that is beautiful, something that has stood the test of time, something thats not going to change, something thats all of a sudden not going to ... just flip around and have some sort of transgender story hour. Reiterating his belief that men going back to church is a positive trend, Kirk urged young men to stop watching porn, smoking marijuana and drinking endlessly. He offered advice to find yourself back to church because that will reorient your life and do what the church tells you to do. Find a woman, marry her, provide ... have more kids than you can afford, he insisted. Kirk also encouraged young men not to play the victim despite the difficulties they face. The mindset of a victim is parasitic to your soul, he added. Earlier in the conversation, the topic of religion came up when Carlson discussed the role of the Protestant spirit in American history. Acknowledging that the people who founded the country were Protestants, Carlson stressed that Im as pro-Catholic as anyone could be. This country was founded by Protestants because they think for themselves, Carlson insisted. He identified the Protestants who founded the United States as the heirs of Martin Luther who took on the ancient 1,500-year-old [Catholic] Church by himself and people who believe they communicate directly with God, that their conscience is more important than federal law. The Barna Group published the results earlier this year as part of its State of the Church 2025 Initiative. It showed that the percentage of millennial males, born between 1984 and 1998, who agreed with the statement I have made a personal commitment to follow Jesus that is still important in my life today jumped from 52% in 2019 to 71% in 2025. Similarly, the share of Generation Z men, referring to those born in 1999 or later, who acknowledged making a personal commitment to Jesus increased from 52% to 67% in the same period. Among the two youngest groups of American adults, men are more likely to embrace Christianity than women, and in 2025, a higher share of young men from these generations have committed themselves to Jesus compared to both sexes in the older generations. Mitchell Leach/ Unsplash The 'National Survey of Religious Leaders (NSRL) 2025' report reveals that 91% of all Christian clergy are confident that God truly exists and have no doubts about it. The survey, which sampled 1,600 clergy from February 2019 to June 2020 representing the full religious spectrum, provides key insights into Christian clergys beliefs across various subjects. Black Protestant pastors show the highest certainty, with 98% affirming God's existence, followed by evangelical (97%) and Catholic (96%) pastors. In contrast, only 68% of mainline pastors fully believe in God's existence, with another 28% expressing belief alongside some doubts. The survey also found that 91% of pastors believe in Jesus bodily resurrection, with evangelical (99%), Black Protestant (97%), and Catholic (92%) pastors vastly more certain than mainline clergy (65%). The recent State of Theology study supports these findings, showing that 90% of evangelicals and 89% of Black Protestants believe the biblical accounts of Jesus' resurrection are completely true, compared to 79% of Catholics and 74% of mainline Protestants. Regarding belief in heaven, almost all evangelical (99%), Catholic (99%), and Black Protestant (97%) pastors affirm its certainty, while only 64% of mainline pastors do. Similarly, on belief in hell, Black Protestants (97%), evangelicals (92%), and Catholics (74%) are significantly more certain than mainline pastors (40%). Most Black Protestant (92%) and evangelical (87%) pastors believe that Adam and Eve were real historical figures, compared to 25% of mainline Protestants and 17% of Catholics. Virtually all Christian pastors (99%), including 95% of mainline leaders, believe the Bible is the actual or inspired word of God. However, 72% of mainline Protestants are more likely than Catholics (58%) and far more than Black Protestants (12%) and evangelicals (11%) to say that while the Bible is inspired and still speaks today, it is not completely historically accurate and some parts reflect the culture of the time and do not apply today. Mainline clergy are less certain about their faith, with about 35% stating they never have doubts, compared to 73% of Catholics, 76% of evangelicals, and 89% of Black Protestants. Around a third of mainline leaders (35%) believe its important to persuade people of other religions to accept their own, versus 59% of all Christian pastors and 82% of evangelicals. Half of mainline pastors (50%) disagree that all world religions are equally true and good, compared to 77% of pastors overall and 98% of evangelicals. Mainline Protestant pastors are also less likely to pray daily before or after meals (64%) than evangelical (95%), Catholic (96%), or Black Protestant (92%) pastors. They are also less likely to pray daily alone, not including meals, with only 77% doing so, compared to 95% of evangelicals, 96% of Catholics, and 92% of Black Protestants. Mainline pastors are far more likely than others to agree that religious leadership should be open to women (95% versus 59%) and to individuals regardless of their sexual orientation (71% versus 24%). Jessica Bates sues Oregon state and county officials for refusing her the certification needed to become an adoptive parent. | Photo Credit: Alliance Defending Freedom A three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 2-1 on Thursday that Oregon officials cannot prevent a Christian mother, Jessica Bates, from adopting solely because she objects to LGBT ideology. The court found that Bates was wrongfully denied an adoption application by the Oregon Department of Human Services, reversing a lower court decision. Circuit Judge Daniel A. Bress, a Trump appointee who authored the majority opinion, stated that Oregon was wrong to require adoptive parents to respect, accept, and support the self-identified gender identity and sexual orientation of a child. He wrote, We hold that Oregon's policy violates the First Amendment as applied to Bates. We reverse the district court's denial of preliminary injunctive relief and direct that a preliminary injunction be entered. Judge Bress emphasized that adoption is not a constitutional law dead zone and that a state's general conception of the child's best interest does not create a force field against the valid operation of other constitutional rights. He added, Oregon's rule, as reflected in the [Resource and Adoptive Families Training] materials, quite clearly restricts and compels speech based on both content and viewpoint, which he found unconstitutional. Bates, a widowed mother of five, applied in May 2022 for adoptive parent certification through the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) so she could adopt two children under the age of nine. However, her application was denied because she refused, on religious grounds, to adhere to the trans-identified child's preferred pronouns. In April 2023, the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) filed a complaint on Bates behalf against ODHS and Malheur County officials, accusing them of violating her First Amendment rights. Jonathan Scruggs of the ADF, who argued the case for Bates, celebrated the ruling, stating, Jessica is a caring mom of five who is now free to adopt after Oregon officials excluded her because of her common-sense belief that a girl cannot become a boy or vice versa. Luke Ash, Senior Pastor of Stevendale Baptist Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. | Screenshot: YouTube/ Tony Perkins A bi-vocational minister who led a Southern Baptist church in Louisiana was reportedly fired from his job at the Baton Rouge Parish Library after refusing to use the preferred pronouns of a transgender-identified trainee. In February, Pastor Luke Ash returned to his hometown of Baton Rouge with his wife and four children to serve as pastor of Stevendale Baptist Church. To support his family, he also took a job at the library. The controversy began on July 7 during a private conversation with a colleague about a trans-identified trainee recently assigned to Ashs department. Ash told The Christian Post he used biologically accurate pronouns when referring to the trainee, who was not present. The colleague, offended by Ashs language, informed him that the trainee preferred he. When Ash responded, I dont do that, the colleague sarcastically mocked him, saying, Thats very respectful, to which he replied, That is very respectful, and then excused himself. The next day, I was called into the office and shown the inclusivity policy, said Ash. Whenever the supervisors asked me if I was going to continue to refuse to use preferred pronouns, I told them that I was not going to lie. He was subsequently fired on July 10. Ash expressed that, although the librarys decision to dismiss him initially caught him off guard, he now sees the incident as part of a broader attack on free speech and religious liberty. Following his firing, a GiveSendGo campaign was launched and, as of Friday, has raised nearly $1,900. A coalition of Baton Rouge pastors, including leaders from the religious freedom advocacy group The Danbury Institute, is drafting an open letter demanding Ashs reinstatement and protections for religious conscience in public employment. Pointing to Acts 22, Ash remarked, The apostle Paul appealed to the law of the land in his time to demand his rights as a Roman citizen. We, as Christians, should do the same in America. We have protections under the law that protect religious liberty and free speech. On May 3, 2022, the entrance of Sacred Heart of Mary Church in Boulder County, Colorado, was defaced with spray-painted graffiti supporting abortion rights. | Screenshot: YouTube/ CBS Colorado A series of church vandalism and arson attacks that began in 2020 during the George Floyd protests and continued after the Roe v. Wade repeal in 2022, has persisted into 2025. Below are reports of acts of vandalism directed at U.S. churches during the first half of 2025, as documented by The Christian Post. On March 15, St. Patrick Catholic Church in Wichita, Kansas, announced that its church had been vandalized. The Kansas Catholic Conference, which shared pictures of the damage show a broken statue and window panes.the vandalism, added that the link to a satanic website was scrawled on a wall. A male suspect from Saline County was charged with burglary, criminal damage to property, and criminal desecration. On March 18, the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana, and a church bus were defaced with the number 666 and a profane message seemingly reading F the Lord. Two juveniles, a male and a female, were arrested in connection with the vandalism. In April, the historic Clayborn Temple Church in Memphis, Tennessee, was severely damaged by arson. The Memphis Fire Department, in an update in May, reported that the fire was intentionally set [in] the interior of the historic church, and a person of interest is being sought by investigators for their possible involvement in this fire. On May 1, Liberty Baptist Church in Lanexa, Virginia, announced that a church sign was heavily vandalized. Photos show the words Hail Satan on one side of the churchs digital sign, and Lucifer along with an anarchist symbol on the other. Outside the property, the anarchist symbol and a marker documenting the churchs history were also drawn. The chapel at St. Teresa of Calcutta Church in Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania, was targeted by a vandal with an explosive device on May 6. The device, placed near the altar, ignited and caused damage to the altar area. Kyle Kuczynski was arrested and charged with arson and related offenses. On July 21, St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church in Pleasant Hills, Pennsylvania, shared images of vandalism, including spray-painted graffiti of a Star of David on a statue of the Virgin Mary, the number 666 on a door, and the phrase F the Pagan Vatican on an exterior wall. Bishop Mark Eckman of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh announced that the FBI was leading an investigation into the incident. Home News Canadian church slapped with $2,500 fine for hosting pro-Trump worship leader Sean Feucht 'The pandemic may be over, but the anti-Christian bias remains' A church in Montreal, Quebec, has been slapped with a $2,500 fine for hosting a church service featuring activist missionary and worship leader Sean Feucht, whose views on sexuality, gender and President Donald Trump have drawn the ire of authorities in multiple Canadian cities. Ministerios Restauracion Church, a Spanish-speaking congregation in Montreal's Plateau-Mont-Royal borough, was fined because they allowed Feucht to conduct a worship service last Friday without a permit, according to the National Post. The stop in Montreal was part of the "Revive in 25" tour being led by Feucht, an outspoken Trump supporter who has denounced abortion, transgender ideology and homosexuality. Let me get this right Montreal: 1) You canceled our permit for a peaceful outdoor worship gather for no reason. 2) You threatened a CHURCH on private property to not have church. 3) You send a battalion of police to intimidate us. 4) Antifa throws 2 smoke bombs at my head pic.twitter.com/zt4516Bb2I Sean Feucht (@seanfeucht) July 26, 2025 Montreal Mayor Valerie Plante's office suggested they issued the punishment to the church because it hosted the event despite objections from the city government regarding Feucht's opinions. "This show runs counter to the values of inclusion, solidarity, and respect that are championed in Montreal," a spokesperson for the mayor said in a statement to the National Post. "Freedom of expression is one of our fundamental values, but hateful and discriminatory speech is not acceptable in Montreal." "A ticket was issued because the organization violated the regulations by going ahead with the show," the spokesperson added. Footage posted to X shows armed police officers at the church, which also featured a smoke bomb being tossed at the stage. Police also arrested a 38-year-old man for obstruction. Someone tossed a smoke grenade on to the stage at a Sean Feucht concert. The church that is hosting him is presently surrounded by police and protesters pic.twitter.com/XGKszYnqxY Protestia (@Protestia) July 26, 2025 Another video showed armed police hovering in the back of the sanctuary during another stop Feucht made in Toronto. Often citing "public safety concerns," at least six Canadian cities have canceled Feucht's tour stops, including Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Moncton, New Brunswick; Quebec City and Gatineau, Quebec; and Vaughan, Ontario, according to CTV News. Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham told the CBC on Monday that his city will be "looking at all angles" before deciding whether to allow Feucht to perform in the Manitoba capital, noting that while Feucht's views are controversial, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects freedom of speech. "My understanding from some of what I've seen or heard had been said in the past, in the States side, is not some of the things that, you know, we would value," Gillingham told the outlet. "On the other hand, we do have a Charter of Rights and Freedoms that does permit people to have their opinion, express their opinion." Much of the mainstream Canadian press has angled their stories about the incident against Feucht, labeling him "MAGA-affiliated." Feucht issued a statement on X last Thursday claiming anti-Christian sentiment has been simmering in Canada, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. He first rose to prominence for launching his "Let Us Worship" movement in protest of government church lockdowns. "Here's the hard truth: If I had shown up with purple hair and a dress, claiming to be a woman, the government wouldnt have said a word. But to publicly profess deeply held Christian beliefs is to be labeled an extremist and to have a free worship event classified as a public safety risk," Feucht said. My official Statement on the Let Us Worship Canada Tour ???????????????? Heres the hard truth: If I had shown up with purple hair and a dress, claiming to be a woman, the government wouldnt have said a word. But to publicly profess deeply held Christian beliefs is to be labeled an Sean Feucht (@seanfeucht) July 24, 2025 "The Let Us Worship movement was born as an organic response to authoritarian COVID-19 lockdown policies policies that, in Canada, were among the most oppressive in the world. The pandemic may be over, but the anti-Christian bias remains." Feucht has remained defiant despite the pushback from government authorities and suggested his tour would find replacement venues. "We will not cower in the face of religious persecution whether in America, Canada, or anywhere else. We will find places to pray. We will find places to praise. And despite the very real risk of arrest, we will stand with our Canadian brothers and sisters to boldly declare: Let Us Worship!" Feucht, who has toured around the world, claimed in another X post Saturday that Canadian authorities have been persecuting him and maintained he has been treated worse in Canada than in regions generally known for hostility toward Christianity. "I've led worship and preached in Africa, the Middle East and all across the world in 2025. The most intense persecution was not in Iraq or Turkey but CANADA! Didnt have that on my bingo card," he wrote. Multiple lawmakers in the western province of British Columbia have expressed disapproval of how Feucht has been treated in their country, as noted by Western Standard. Feucht, a former worship leader with Bethel Music, faced allegations earlier this year of financial impropriety and spiritual abuse from former colleagues, though he has dismissed the claims as "a complete sham." Canada has drawn international scrutiny in recent years amid allegations that the country increasingly discriminates against Christians, such as the multiple pastors who were jailed during the ongoing COVID-19 lockdowns for conducting services. When Pastor Tim Stephens was jailed in 2021 after a Calgary police helicopter found his congregation gathering outdoors, Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., urged the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom to consider adding Canada to its watch list. Home News Federal Trade Commission invites public to help with 'gender-affirming care' inquiry The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is seeking input from the public in its investigation into allegedly illegal claims made by the providers of body-disfiguring transgender procedures. In an effort to gauge potential harms to consumers from "false or unsupported claims about 'gender-affirming care,' especially as it relates to minors," the FTC encouraged individuals "to comment on any issues or concerns that are relevant to the FTC's consideration of this topic," according to a Monday press release. The FTC said it will be accepting "any written data, advertisements, social media posts, disclosures, or empirical research" related to its inquiry. The FTC said it has been looking into whether providers of gender-affirming care have violated Sections 5 and 12 of the FTC Act by making false claims about the effectiveness of such procedures or failing to disclose their material risks. Section 5 of the FTC Act regulates unfair or deceptive business practices, and Section 12 targets false advertising. "The FTC has a long history of bringing enforcement actions in this area and is uniquely positioned to investigate this potentially unlawful activity," the agency said, and encouraged the public to submit comments at Regulations.gov no later than Sept. 26. The FTC's most recent announcement comes on the heels of a day-long workshop the agency held in Washington, D.C., on July 9 regarding the harms of gender-affirming care. The event featured multiple panels of experts, whistleblowers, detransitioners and their families, some of whom were reduced to tears describing the pain such procedures have wrought in their lives. During the workshop, the U.S. Justice Department's Chief of Staff Chad Mizelle announced that the DOJ had issued more than 20 subpoenas against clinics that are engaged in trans medical procedures on children. Boston Children's Hospital, the first pediatric and adolescent trans-medicalization clinic in the U.S., was among the medical facilities that received a subpoena, the National Review reported Monday. Brandon Showalter, a Christian Post opinion writer and social commentator who hosts the "Generation Indoctrination" podcast and participated in the FTC's recent workshop, lauded the FTC's recent move. He anticipates that many will be supplying the FTC with "ample, concrete evidence of misleading claims, falsified medical records, and other fraudulent practices that are part and parcel of so-called 'gender-affirming care.'" Citing federal actions and the U.S. Supreme Court's June 18 ruling upholding Tennessee's law banning trans medicalization for minors, Showalter suggested the tide is turning against transgender ideology, but noted trans activists remain determined and powerful. "The infrastructure that the trans industry has laid is enormous, well-funded and deeply embedded in prominent institutions, and they remain ideologically captured," he said. "Even as some major hospitals are now closing their gender clinics or saying they are 'pausing' these 'treatments,' I have no doubt that trans activists are quietly regrouping, stealthily strategizing, and continuing to manipulate and cunningly deceive the public about their true intentions." "Trans activists are only ever about ruthless, raw power and never take 'no' for an answer, even when policies with teeth are enacted," he added. Home News Missouri AG sues Planned Parenthood over disinformation about abortion pill Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has filed a lawsuit against Planned Parenthood, accusing the abortion provider of spreading lies and disinformation about the dangers of the abortion pill. The state attorney generals office announced the lawsuit last week. It accuses Planned Parenthood Federation of America of violating the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act. The lawsuit seeks over $1.8 million in civil penalties for daily violating state law, as much as $1,000 in damages or restitution for every Missouri woman Planned Parenthood provided abortion pills to over the last five years, reimbursing the state for taxpayer-funded emergency care derived from abortion pill complications, and a court order halting Planned Parenthood from continuing to promote certain claims about the abortion pill. The national Planned Parenthood organization is actively endangering the lives of women and girls across the country by spreading lies and disinformation about the powerful chemical abortion drug, Bailey said in the announcement. The facts are clear: more than 4.5 percent of women who take this dangerous drug end up in the emergency room, yet Planned Parenthood compares it to Tylenol. This is a blatant violation of Missouri law, and I will not allow a death factory to lie to Missouri women in pursuit of its radical agenda. Planned Parenthood spokeswoman Danika Severino told St. Louis-based FOX 2 she doesn't believe the state is acting in the best interest of women and that its only about attacking abortion. In March, Bailey issued an order mandating that Planned Parenthood Great Rivers, which was formerly called Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, quit performing chemical abortions because it wasn't complying with a state law requiring abortion clinics to have a valid plan to treat complications from chemically induced abortions. Planned Parenthood Great Rivers and Planned Parenthood Great Plains issued a statement calling the March order an unfounded political attack and accused Bailey of engaging in a blatant attempt to deceive Missourians. In reality, neither Planned Parenthood affiliate received any notice from the AG at the time of publishing his press release, and neither have been able to resume medication abortion services in Missouri, the Planned Parenthood statement maintained. In fact, both PPGR and PPGP submitted complication plans in February to comply with requirements set forth by the state, and continue to wait for any response from [the Department of Health and Senior Services]. Mifepristone is the first drug in the chemical abortion regimen. The drug destroys the environment in the uterus and subsequently starves an unborn baby to death. It is believed to be used in around half of all pregnancy terminations in the United States. According to the United States Food and Drug Administration, mifepristone was first approved in September 2000 for the purpose of terminating a pregnancy up to seven weeks gestation, which was then extended to 10 weeks (or 49 days from conception) in 2016. Since many abortion clinics in the U.S. were ignoring the FDAs protocol and using the drug in chemical abortions up to 60 days, states began passing regulations saying they had to follow the FDAs protocol. They didnt want to have to follow the FDA protocol, so [then President] Obama made the FDA change it to the later date, the 60 days, to match up with what the abortion providers were doing," Sue Turner, director of Alabama Physicians for Life, previously told The Christian Post. The drug was less effective," she said, and abortionists then had to also perform a surgical abortion, which meant that women were being charged for both chemical and surgical procedures. Many pro-life groups have argued that mifepristone poses a danger to women who take it, with the Ethics and Public Policy Center releasing a report earlier this year that concluded that over 10% of women who took the drug experienced adverse health effects. However, pro-choice groups have argued that the drug is a safe way to terminate a pregnancy, with a 2023 analysis by CNN claiming that it is safer than more widely accepted drugs like penicillin and Viagra. Home News Into the Supernatural podcast hosts urge churches to address spiritual warfare, the occult In a time when many churches shy away from confronting spiritual warfare, deception and supernatural encounters, actress Jen Lilley and journalist Billy Hallowell are leaning in. Lilley and Hallowell, co-hosts of the new podcast "Into the Supernatural," joined Jenn Nizza, a former psychic-turned-Christian apologist, for a candid conversation on her show, "Ex-Psychic Saved." The episode tackled topics ranging from ex-satanists and former psychics to miracles, near-death experiences and the troubling infiltration of New Age practices in modern churches. Lilley, known for her work in film and television, opened up about how the podcast came to be. Though initially approached by Hallowell for a different show concept focused on Hollywood, Lilley declined until the subject of the supernatural came up. I prayed about it and said, If you ever want to do a podcast about the supernatural, that is something I could devote all of my time to, she recalled. Because all I ever want to do is talk about the Holy Spirit and God and Jesus and what Hes doing. Listen to the Ex-Psychic Saved podcast Hallowell, whose previous podcast "Playing with Fire" explored spiritual battles and evil, said the idea had already been stirring in his heart. I kind of fell into this mode of separating myself out, he said. I started realizing that I had pulled back so much that I was probably missing some things and so I started feeling convicted about that. Both hosts said their mission is not just to spark curiosity but to equip believers with truth and compassion. Lilley shared how Nizzas testimony helped soften her perspective toward those entangled in the occult. A longtime admirer of the prophet Elijah, Lilley admitted that her natural posture was one of righteous indignation toward witchcraft and psychic practices. When you came on the show and said, I really thought I was helping people, it unlocked something in my heart, Lilley told Nizza. Thank you for giving me compassion in this area. That was the one area I havent had compassion. Nizza, who now speaks across the country about the dangers of the New Age, affirmed the power of testimonies in awakening empathy and truth. Im hearing two things here, she said. Hearing other peoples stories is giving you new compassion, and its also educating the Church about things that are creeping in, like angel numbers, card readings, and near-death experiences. The episode also emphasized the importance of discernment and love in these conversations. If your whole motivation for life is truth, or ramming things down peoples throats, or becoming like Elijah just to call down fire from Heaven youre missing it, Lilley said. You have to lead with love. The trio discussed a wide range of topics addressed on Into the Supernatural, including interviews with an ex-satanist, deliverance ministers and individuals rescued from Santeria and the New Age. One of the biggest dangers today is underemphasizing these issues in the Church, Hallowell said. I went through most of my life without ever hearing about spiritual warfare in church. Thats a disservice. Lilley agreed, adding that many of their guests speak out not for profit, but out of a burden to rescue others from the same deception they were once in. This isn't about pay me and Ill unlock the secrets of God, she said. Jesus salvation is free. His love is free. The episode took a moment to address controversial topics like near-death experiences and spiritual deception in prosperity gospel circles, with Nizza warning of teachings that prey on vulnerable believers. We need to hear biblically sound conversations about this, she said. Otherwise, people get confused, afraid to even pray for healing, thinking they just dont have enough faith. These are lies of the enemy. As for what listeners can expect next on "Into the Supernatural," Lilley and Hallowell said the podcast will continue exploring hard-hitting topics with guests ranging from former occultists to healing ministers and near-death experiences. I love being able to ask people the weird questions no one else will, Lilley said with a laugh. Things you cant just find in a book. Ultimately, the hosts hope their work will lead people back to Scripture, deepen their understanding of spiritual realities, and encourage unity within the Body of Christ. This isnt a substitution for church, Nizza said. Its a supplement. And its so needed. Home News Church challenges members to initiate 10K Gospel conversations, usher in a 'culture of evangelism' Members of a church in Georgia aim to conduct 10,000 Gospel conversations over the next five years as part of a new initiative to foster a culture in which "evangelism is normal" within the congregation. The effort is being launched by Beech Haven Church of Athens, a congregation with around 550 members and affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. Heather Ellington, the church's director of communications and connections, told The Christian Post that the church has a "long-term effort to cultivate the unwavering hope of Jesus in every generation." "Rather than a marketing slogan, this goal serves as a spiritual challenge: to move every member from passive attendance to active participation in Gospel ministry. While we cannot control outcomes, we can be faithful to sow the seed," said Ellington. "We chose the number 10,000 not because we expect to convert 10,000 people ourselves, but because we believe it represents the scope of Gospel conversations we're called to pursue through personal relationships, community outreach, and mission efforts both locally and globally." While 10,000 conversations may seem insurmountable to some, Ellington said that when divided over five years, it is equal to only 40 Gospel conversations per week. "This is the largest initiative of its kind for our church," she told CP. "In the past, we've emphasized personal evangelism through sermon series, outreach events, and short-term mission trips." "But this is the first time we've united our congregation around one long-term evangelistic focus one that encourages every generation to participate and track progress together." Beech Haven has provided resources to its congregation to equip them in meeting this goal, including a "Gospel Conversations Guide" booklet available at the front atrium. The church is also integrating evangelism into its Bible study small groups, known as Life Groups, which will include relevant curriculum activities and sharing about experiences. To keep track of the efforts, Beech Haven installed a "Gospel Conversations Map" in the church lobby, where people can place red pins to mark locations in the Athens area where they have shared their faith with neighbors. Ellington said these and other efforts seek to initiate "a culture of evangelism by publicly celebrating testimonies, Gospel seeds planted, and steps of faith even when the conversation doesn't result in a conversion." "We are currently exploring how to further align our local and global missions strategy with this shared vision for Gospel conversations ensuring a unified effort in cultivating the hope of Jesus near and far," she continued. "Ultimately, we're trying to normalize Gospel conversations as a way of life where every person in every generation sees themselves as a messenger of hope." Ellington believes that "when the whole church participates, it becomes possible." "If 200 people each have one Gospel conversation per month, that's already 12,000 in five years," she said. "The real aim isn't hitting a number it's forming a culture where evangelism is normal, expected, and joyful. We believe that God works through faith-filled goals, and that obedience is our part outcomes are His." Home News Trump admin. issues guidance protecting religious expression for federal employees The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), under Director Scott Kupor, issued a memo this week directing the heads of federal departments and agencies to allow employees' religious expression in the workplace. According to the July 28 memo titled "Protecting Religious Expression in the Federal Workplace," federal employees are allowed to display religious items at work, engage in individual or group prayer during non-duty hours, discuss their religious beliefs and attempt to persuade co-workers in a "polite discussion" without harassing them. Employees are also allowed to invite co-workers to religious services and express their faith, even in public-facing roles such as a national park ranger speaking with tour groups. Agencies were directed to allow religious expression to the greatest extent possible unless it imposes an "undue hardship" on business operations, which does not include a co-worker disliking such expression. Agencies were advised to review and revise internal policies to ensure compliance, avoid disciplining employees for religious expression that is not harassing, and ensure the right of supervisors to engage in religious discussions. The memo cited Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which defines religion to include "all aspects of religious observance and practice as well as belief." "However, Title VII does not cover all beliefs. For example, social, political, or economic philosophies, and mere personal preferences, are not 'religious' beliefs within the meaning of the statute," the memo noted. Kupor emphasized in a statement that the guidance is intended to protect federal employees of all faiths. "Federal employees should never have to choose between their faith and their career," Kupor said in a statement. "This guidance ensures the federal workplace is not just compliant with the law but welcoming to Americans of all faiths. Under President Trump's leadership, we are restoring constitutional freedoms and making government a place where people of faith are respected, not sidelined." The memo comes a week after another OPM memo encouraged robust accommodations for religious liberty among federal employees, including telework options and modified work schedules for religious accommodation. Andrew T. Walker, who serves as an associate dean at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, praised the new guidance and suggested it restores the federal government to neutrality. "I have no problem with it whatsoever," Walker told Politico. "To me, that's simply reaffirming the First Amendment, that has proper caveats if you're not engaging in harassing behavior. I think this is just reiterating basic principles of the First Amendment." Attorney Mikey Weinstein, who founded the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, was critical of the new guidance, telling the outlet that "If your supervisor decides to sit down and make it very clear that it's important to her or him, that you accept this weaponized version of the gospel of Jesus Christ, what do you think your chances are for advancement?" In a video posted Monday, Weinstein described the rules as "unconstitutional savagery" and likened them to "Nazi Germany, 1933." The OPM memos come amid the Trump administration's push to "eradicate anti-Christian bias" in the federal government. In addition to a February executive order establishing a task force within the U.S. Department of Justice for such a purpose, Trump also issued an executive order in May to create a presidential commission on religious liberty. Home News Pastor accused of sexually abusing teenage girl who sought grief counseling An Arizona pastor has been arrested and remains in police custody after he was accused of sexually abusing a 16-year-old girl whom he was supposed to be offering grief counseling after the death of her brother. The pastor, 61-year-old Stanley Jay of Worship Life Center Church in Mesa, was arrested on July 23 for multiple sexual abuse charges, according to records from the Maricopa Superior Court. He was charged with four counts of sexual abuse, two counts of sexual conduct with a minor, and one count of aggravated luring of a minor for sexual exploitation. He is being held on a $200,000 bond, according to AZ Central. Neither Worship Life Center Church nor Living Praise Christian Church, where he previously worked as a minister and still features on their social media, immediately responded to calls for comment from The Christian Post. Worship Life Center Church has disabled its website and social media accounts. Court documents cited by AZ Central said that in early May, during a meeting with Jay, he touched the teenager over her clothing. The pastor later escalated his predation of the teenager and asked her to send him nude photos of herself while he sent her a video of his genitalia. Even though she was disgusted by the request, the victim told police that she felt compelled to send the photos and was afraid to tell her mother. The victim said she felt Pastor Jay took advantage of her while she was in a vulnerable position and asked her to pinky promise not to tell anyone about the abuse. Jays wife reportedly announced in an email to his congregation in May that he was stepping down as pastor. She also confirmed with a church member that her husband and the victim had exchanged explicit text messages, according to court documents. A church member reported the abuse to police on May 28, and detectives interviewed the victim, whose family was close with the pastor, a day later. According to AZ Central, Pastor Jay described himself in a May 25 sermon to his church as a three-time convicted felon. During a sermon on May 25, held on the birthday of Pastor Stan, days before he stepped down, Jay told members of his church he didnt think he would get to this point in life because of the life Ive lived. In his sermon, Jay described himself as a three-time convicted felon who used to smoke dope. He said God revived his life from a concrete slab and warned churchgoers to protect their minds from negative thinking. Youve got to manage this thing, he said of the mind, or that things going to ruin you. Home News Prosecutor in Anglican bishop abuse case alleges misconduct in church trial A member of the prosecution in a church trial against an Anglican bishop who allegedly mishandled abuse cases is claiming the court's proceedings have been tainted. Bishop Stewart Ruch III of the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) Diocese of the Upper Midwest has been on trial for allegedly failing to properly respond to sexual and spiritual abuse allegations within his diocese. Deputy Prosecutor Rachel Thebeau wrote a multi-page letter addressed to the Brothers and Sisters in the ACNA last week in which she alleged that very important information is being withheld from you by the Court, the Archbishop, and the Archbishops staff. The trial process was tainted because a member of the Court, enabled by the Archbishops staff, made a series of decisions that fatally undermined the Court's integrity, culminating in his lengthy domination of the court proceedings, wrote Thebeau. According to Thebeau, the unnamed member of the court had been given access to some of her Dropbox folders by ACNA officials without her permission or knowledge. It was abundantly clear that the court member had just enough information to be dangerous. What he has is not a complete set of documents and files, and he does not have the context of the documentation in his possession, Thebeau continued. Based on incomplete and misunderstood information, he made damaging insinuations and handed Bishop Ruch his favorite red herring which now enables him to obscure the facts of the case as part of his defense. Thebeau went on to say that she was alarmingly disappointed by the response of the archbishop and the court, believing that there was a serious lack of accountability in the process. In the real world, the judge would be disciplined for judicial misconduct and those who gave him improper access to a partys files would be fired and disciplined, she added. According to the Archbishops recent letter to the whole ACNA, rather than being reprimanded or removed, this same chancellor was then tasked with the important job of selecting the new prosecutor. In a statement posted to Anglican Ink last Friday, the ACNA Archbishops Office said that the parties to the case (i.e. the prosecutor and the defendant) are entitled to raise any concerns directly with the court or the chancellor. The Province has consistently emphasized that public statements by those involved in the trial, or by other church leaders, imperils the integrity of the process and reduces the chances of a just and acceptable verdict, which has already taken too long to see, the office added. It is not appropriate for the Province to litigate in public any complaints that the former prosecutor or his legal assistant, Ms. Thebeau, have with the Court or this process until it has reached a conclusion. Thebeaus letter comes after Alan Runyan, a longtime practicing attorney who served as the provincial prosecutor at the trial, sent a letter to ACNA Archbishop Steve Wood announcing his resignation. Runyan resigned because of an incident during the fifth day of proceedings, when a member of the court began a line of questioning based on evidence not presented at trial. The Court member's statements and questions put the integrity of the investigative process at issue in these proceedings despite the Court's prior ruling that those inquiries were improper, wrote Runyan. At that point, all six of the other members of the Court had been exposed to an unwarranted suspicion of provincial investigative bias brought into the trial by a single Court member, contrary to the Court's duty to determine the outcome based solely on the evidence in the trial record. Runyan believed that the trial process had been irreparably tainted, noting that a trial process that bears within it the seed of impropriety, no matter the outcome, must change. As a result of Runyans resignation, the ACNA Ecclesiastical Court for the Trial of a Bishop issued an order postponing the resumption of the trial from July 21 to Aug. 11. For his part, Wood wrote in a letter that he considered Runyan's resignation to be an unsettling and surprising development in the proceedings, and labeled it a serious and concerning situation for the Church. Jesus Costume At Belfast Pride Parade, Netanyahu On Gaza Famine, Church Gains Trust After 3-Year Stagnation link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 07:13 07:13 Top headlines for Tuesday, July 29, 2025 In this episode, we explore the controversy surrounding a man's appearance at the Belfast Pride Parade, where he provocatively dressed as Jesus, complete with a crown of thorns, drawing mixed reactions from attendees and onlookers. Then, we turn our attention to international news, where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's remarks about the reported famine in Gaza are making headlines, raising questions about international responses and humanitarian aid. Plus, on a more positive note, we discuss the recent uptick in American public trust in the church, which has seen a notable increase after three years of stagnation. 00:11 Jesus crowned with thorns at Belfast Pride Parade prompts outrage 01:08 Netanyahu asserts Israel provides aid: Campaign of lies' 02:01 Americans' trust in the church rebounding after seeing record low 02:59 Episcopal Church head, family of suspended bishop reach agreement 03:47 X's 'kid-friendly' app raises doubts after 'pornified' AI chatbot 04:34 Christian convert in Egypt charged with terrorism over ID request 05:31 Forrest Frank releases viral song Gods Got My Back Home Opinion Baylor University's grant money fiasco: Questions worth asking Baylor Universitys Center for Church and Community Impact recently received a grant for research on the disenfranchisement and exclusion of LGBTQIA+ individuals within the church. However, the $634,000 grant wasnt just about research or learning how to better communicate with this group of people. It was intended to nurture institutional courage and foster change thinly veiled code for moving toward theological affirmation of unbiblical sexual ethics. Following an uproar among the Christian community and university supporters, Baylor University President Linda Livingstone returned the grant, noting that the proposed actions would require advocacy for perspectives on human sexuality that are inconsistent with Baylors institutional policies. Baylor has been on shaky ground before with this issue, as have other Christian institutions, such as Cru, which fired two long-time staffers after they publicly raised theological objections to training materials that promoted concepts like pronoun hospitality. The Baylor incident highlights the importance of Christian institutions being cautious about accepting money from certain sources. Nonprofits often struggle to resist much-needed funding, but it's worth asking: Where is the money coming from, and what mission is it truly serving? The Eula May and John Baugh Foundation, which presented the grant to Baylor, says on its front page that it supports progressive, inclusive, non-profit organizations that reflect the love of Christ, so its no secret what kind of theology they are pushing with their efforts. But many Christian organizations havent wavered on sexual ethics, despite immense cultural pressure to do so. The Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod (LCMS) just held its recent The Gathering youth conference, where it intentionally addressed issues of sexuality, the natural order, and the problems with the LGBTQ movements assumptions, said LCMS President Matthew Harrison. Harrison said its important to speak clearly to youth on these issues and that LCMS respects and preaches Gods law, including His will for marriage and sexuality. Contrastingly, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) claims that their faith liberates them to embrace you as a whole person questions, complexities and all. With a rainbow flag, they proudly declare LGBTIA+ affirmation. While not all organizations have gone as far as the ELCA, some historic Christian youth ministriessuch as Young Life and Youth for Christstruggle with consistency. Though they affirm a biblical sexual ethic on paper, their decentralized structures often allow local leaders to promote conflicting messages. Other organizations, some created more recently, appear to have sturdier foundations. A few examples include: The Summit Christian Ministries states that their conferences aim to help young people work through complex issues like gender identity and homosexuality with a Biblical worldview. Live Original, a youth organization created by Sadie Robertson Huff, frequently affirms biblical teaching on sex and relationships through books, podcasts, and conferences. Worldview Academy aims to train Christians to think and live in accord with a Biblical worldview so they are better equipped to serve Christ and engage the culture. American Heritage Girls and Trail Life, Christian alternatives to the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, have also maintained theological soundness on issues of sexuality. These groups shine amid the squishy approach of organizations primarily focused on seeker-friendly agendas and curricula, which will quickly lose relevance as they stray further from biblical truth. As the culture quickly descended into LGBTQ chaos and acceptance of every variety of sexual identity and indoctrination, only those solidly committed to historical Christian values have withstood the pressure. When organizations hear that their stance on sexuality turns people away, they may panic, but conforming to the world instead of Christ is never the answer. Those who stand strong will endure. Home Opinion Does counting worship attendance still make sense for churches? Randy knows the strategic spots to get the best views of the sanctuary to count heads. Hes been doing it for years, and I rely on his numbers to know how many people attended our weekend worship services. Barb sends me the complete attendance report on Monday afternoons, which includes more details about children, students, and groups. Why do I care? Why does my church count everyone each week? For decades, worship attendance has been the default metric for measuring church success. While some may argue its outdated or superficial, the truth is more complex. Lets start with the sobering reality: Between 70% and 80% of churches in North America are either plateaued or declining. One of the key reasons? Less than 1% of churches maintain an ongoing emphasis on evangelism. Without a clear commitment to reaching new people, growth naturally slows or stalls. So, while attendance isnt the only measure of health, it remains one of the most revealing. Where did the worship attendance metric come from? The focus on worship attendance didnt appear out of nowhere. It grew out of three overlapping waves in church history: Wave 1: The Sunday school movement (1800s) Counting became commonplace with Sunday schools. This era emphasized education and attendance tracking. Churches like Illinois Street Churchlater Moody Churchunder D.L. Moody led the way in gathering and counting large groups. In England, Charles Spurgeons Metropolitan Tabernacle also drew thousands. Sunday school wasnt just for kids; it was a vital connection point for entire communities. Some churches kept this Sunday school focus up to the turn of the millennium. For example, Guinell Freeman, known as Miss Sunday School at First Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida, built and grew the Sunday school program to more than 13,000 people by the late 1990s. Wave 2: The preaching-centered era (early-to-mid 1900s) In this wave, preaching became the draw. J. Frank Norris and George W. Truett led massive congregations in Texas. Revivalists like Billy Sunday and Aimee Semple McPherson drew crowds through charismatic preaching. Harry Fosdick and Martin Lloyd-Jones were well-known among many different groups. Sunday school remained important, and people like Henrietta Mears continued to implement popular programs. But the pulpit became the central platform for growth. During this era, a major shift began to take place. The front door, or entry point, to the church changed from the Sunday school classroom to the sanctuary. Wave 3: The church growth movement (1950s2000s) With the rise of the Baby Boomers came large churches designed to attract seekers. Robert Schullers Crystal Cathedral, Bill Hybels Willow Creek, and Rick Warrens Saddleback Church redefined the church growth model. Strong preaching, engaging programs, and strategic marketing built massive congregations. The church growth movement led to the development of satellite campuses, video venues, and modern expressions of worship designed to attract as many people as possible. Despite the success stories, many attendance numbers during this era were estimates. For example, until the 1990s, Southern Baptist churches were asked to report only one Sundays attendance for the whole year. And yes, most chose Easter. While more accurate weekly tracking became the norm later, exaggeration wasnt uncommon. You could argue the hyper-focus on the metric of worship attendance still leads to inflated figures. Wave 4: The neighborhood church era (post-pandemic) Whats next? The preference is rising for smaller neighborhood churches closer to home. Before the pandemic, only 10% of churchgoers were willing to drive more than 30 minutes to church. These drive times are likely shorter now. The reach of regional churches is beginning to pull back. People are considering smaller neighborhood churches in their communities. The competition for attendance growth is beginning to diminish. Average weekly worship attendance is still the metric of success and will likely remain so for the foreseeable future. Churches should grow, but the pressure to be bigger and better than everyone else is fading. The double-edged sword of worship attendance Focusing on attendance isnt inherently good or bad. It depends on how its used. Healthy Uses: Rhythms build discipleship. Regular attendance creates patterns that foster spiritual growth. Presence enables connection. When people show up, you have the chance to engage, disciple, and shepherd them. Trends reveal direction. Attendance is a simple way to spot whether things are improving or declining. Opportunities increase. Weekly gatherings are moments for evangelism, ministry, and invitation. Unhealthy Uses: Legalism creeps in. Guilt-driven attendance goals can drain energy and obscure grace. Growth becomes a game. Its tempting to chase numbers instead of people. Charisma overshadows calling. When growth relies solely on a dynamic leader, it often collapses when that leader leaves. Quantity replaces quality. Sitting in a pew doesnt guarantee spiritual maturity. So, how do we hold on to whats good while avoiding the pitfalls? By focusing not just on growing numbers, but on healthy growth. Practical steps toward healthy church growth One way to maintain a healthy focus on attendance figures is to distinguish between lead metrics and lag metrics. Lead metrics are the controllable actions that drive outcomes the effort you make. Lag metrics, on the other hand, are the results that appear after the fact, such as attendance, giving, or conversions. Lead metric example: number of invites to church your members made. Lag metric example: worship attendance on Sunday. Lead metrics help you focus on what you can do now to move toward your goals. Lag metrics tell you what happened because of your effort. A mistake church leaders can make is celebrating the lag metric (worship attendance) instead of the lead metric (inviting people). Church culture changes when members focus more on lead metrics instead of lag metrics. Work with the willing. You dont need the whole church on board to begin moving forward. Start with a few motivated families. They can change the direction of an entire congregation. Redefine what success looks like. The days of rapid transfer growth are fading. Instead of focusing only on how many people show up, pay attention to how many are invited. How many phone calls are made to absent members? Whos being evangelized, followed up with, or prayed for? Establish consistent rhythms. Weekly programming matters. A church with 100 people every Sunday is stronger than one with 500 people once a month. Consistency beats sporadic crowds every time, especially for discipleship and pastoral care. Engage your community demographically. Dont guess who lives nearby know. Use tools like the Know Your Community Report or the Good News Neighbors Toolkit. Deliver gifts to new residents. Make hospitality your signature trait. Run a regular check-up. Evaluate your churchs health honestly. Where are you strong? Where are you stuck? Where do you need to realign or rebuild? Metrics can be helpful here, but only if they lead to actionable outcomes. The Church Health Scorecard is an excellent starting point for identifying which metrics to utilize. The metric of success Worship attendance still has value. It remains one of the clearest indicators of momentum in a church. But healthy churches dont chase attendance. They cultivate community, deepen discipleship, and embrace evangelism. In a world where attention spans are short and cultural Christianity is fading, being physically present for worship matters more than ever. So yes, attendance still matters. But even more than that, presence matters. Your church can grow when you focus on people, not just numbers. And that growth can begin with one invitation, one conversation, and one Sunday at a time. Originally published at Church Answers. Home Opinion President Trump grounded Big Bird. And that's a good thing Last week, President Donald Trump grounded Big Bird. He took Wishbone out for a long walk in the woods. He cut the strings on all the smooth jazz you could find by dialing your cars FM radio to NPR. And yes, this is a good thing. Let me explain. Two weeks ago, congressional Republicans passed a piece of legislation known as a rescissions package, a formal request from the President to Congress to cancel previously approved spending, effectively eliminating funds allocated to specific programs or projects. This process is governed by the Impoundment Control Act (ICA), which allows the President to propose rescissions and requires Congress to act within a specific timeframe. This bill, H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025, was historic. It was the first time in over two decades that a rescissions package, requested by the president, was signed into law. Once again, where other Republican administrations have talked the talk on cutting waste, fraud, and abuse, Trump is walking the walk. According to CBS, this bill targets roughly $8 billion for foreign assistance programs, including the United States Agency for International Development, or USAID. The package also includes about $1 billion in funding cuts for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which supports public radio and television stations, including NPR and PBS. Thats right, the federal subsidies spigot providing taxpayer funding for the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and National Public Radio (NPR) to supplement their budget was finally shut off. This is a monumental victory for fiscal sanity and moral clarity, freeing American taxpayers from bankrolling a propaganda machine disguised as educational enlightenment. No longer will hardworking, blue-collar folks foot the bill for content that mocks their values and undermines the very values on which our Republic was founded. While I dont know the last time you turned on PBS or listened to NPR, the sad truth is that these once-vaunted institutions of American broadcasting had long turned their backs on wholesome, helpful educational content, choosing instead to become outlets of the most absurd, leftist propaganda imaginable. You know, like features on A Brief History Of How Racism Shaped Interstate Highways. Moving stuff. To understand the magnitude of this triumph, we must rewind to the origins of this unholy alliance between government and media. Back in 1967, under President Lyndon Johnson, Congress established the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) through the Public Broadcasting Act, ostensibly to foster non-commercial educational programming in a nation starved for intellectual enrichment. PBS followed in 1969, and NPR in 1970, both receiving support from the federal government through CPB grants. What started as a noble-sounding venture promoting arts, sciences, and civics quickly ballooned into a taxpayer-funded behemoth. According to recent estimates, federal dollars accounted for approximately 1 to 2% of NPRs direct budget and roughly 15% of PBSs aggregate budget. For local stations, the average was 8 to 10% for radio and similar for TV. Thats hundreds of millions annually, folks including the $485 million in the last fiscal year alone funneled through CPB to keep the lights on for Sesame Street socialists and All Things Considered ideologues. And its not like conservatives woke up one random morning with a grudge; the rot set in early and festered over decades. As far back as the Reagan era, whispers of liberal bias echoed in the halls of power, but it was during the George W. Bush years that the mask slipped further, with accusations of slanted coverage on everything from Iraq to climate hysteria. By the Obama administration, the bias had become blatant, and under Trump 1.0, it exploded into full-blown insanity. PBS and NPR became mouthpieces for the leftist agenda, peddling pro-LBGT indoctrination, transgender fairy tales, anti-American revisionism, and a subtle anti-white narrative that paints traditional values as oppressive relics. By 2025, PBS and NPR were nothing more than a non-stop slop bucket of Cultural Marxism, overflowing into your living room or front seat, where diversity meant erasing biblical norms and inclusion excludes anyone clinging to the Cross, the Constitution, and common sense. Take, for instance, PBSs childrens lineup shows like Arthur featuring same-sex weddings or Daniel Tigers Neighborhood pushing anti-racist indoctrination, all while taxpayer dollars fund the grooming. NPRs no better, with endless segments on racial injustice over urban crime waves, fawning interviews with trans activists, and coverage that frames border security as xenophobia while ignoring the invasions chaos. Theyve aired puff pieces on drag queen story hours, downplayed Antifa riots as mostly peaceful, and amplified voices calling America a systemically racist empire built on stolen land. Its ludicrous anti-white, anti-Christian drivel masquerading as journalism, where normal Americans are villains and every minority grievance is gospel. Enter Katherine Maher, NPRs current CEO, whose tenure has been nothing short of a symphony performance of elite arrogance. This former Wikimedia boss testified before Congress in March 2025, dodging questions like a greased pig at a county fair. Republicans grilled her on bias, and what did she offer in response? Platitudes about diversity while her past statements haunted the room. Maher once mused that our reverence for the truth might be a distraction thats getting in the way of finding common ground, implying that objective truth is a barrier to her progressive utopia. Shes on record viewing the First Amendment as a pesky obstacle to combating misinformation code for censoring conservative voices. In old tweets, she equated truth-seeking with white male Westernized constructs, essentially calling biblical absolutes a tool of oppression. Her congressional performance? A masterclass in deflection, invoking the First Amendment 10 times to shield NPRs slant, all while suing over Trumps earlier executive orders that attempted to defund it. Hypocrisy thy name is Maher: freedom of speech for thee, but not for me. For years, Republicans talked a big game about defunding this beast Reagan threatened, Gingrich promised, even Romney mumbled about putting Big Bird on the chopping block. But they were all hat, no cattle. But Trump didnt just tweet about it; he actually did it. Leveraging his influence over the GOP and guided by his steady budget guru at the Office of Management and Budget, Russ Vought, he pushed the rescissions package through Congress. To be clear, its not like PBS has vanished from your TV or that NPR has gone radio silent. If you want to tune in for some more lessons on why your 3-year-old might be a racist because they like the color blue, have at it. Just know that their programming is only made possible by viewers like you, not taxpayers like me. As a Christian, its right to rejoice in these cost-saving and sanity-seeking cuts. This defunding is a divine mercy, aligning with Scriptures call to separate from the worlds corrupting influences. By yanking these subsidies, were halting the flow of taxpayer tithes to idols of secularism and moral relativism. Its a win for the Kingdom, protecting families from state-sponsored apostasy and redirecting resources to genuine good. Trump finally pulled the plug on the radical-left's golden calf, and the silence is golden. Originally published at the Standing for Freedom Center. The cloud market is booming, driven by an array of innovative strategies that are combining to make the cloud more powerful, flexible, and safer. Viewing the current situation, Gartner predicts that worldwide end-user spending on public cloud services will reach $723.4 billion in 2025, up from $595.7 billion in 2024. Goldman Sachs, meanwhile, expects overall cloud revenue to reach $2 trillion by 2030. How will a rapidly evolving cloud market impact your enterprises plans this year? Heres are seven are key trends to pay attention to. 1. AI-optimized hybrid cloud architectures arrive The rise of AI-optimized hybrid cloud architectures is the defining trend of 2025, says Robert Kim, CTO at technology services and solutions provider Presidio. Cloud strategy is being recalibrated around AI workload performance, data sovereignty, and cost predictability, he observes. Abonati-va sa primiti pe email saptamanal lista articolelor adaugate pe parcursul saptamanii. Adresele .ru nu sunt acceptate. Email NEWSLETTER Islamic Relief Islamic Relief Worldwide raised a record amount of money last year as its spending exceeded 300m for the first time, its recently filed accounts show. The charitys overall income reached a record 276m in the 2024 calendar year, up from 275m in 2023, driven by money transferred from global Islamic Relief member charities. Donations and legacy income from Islamic Reliefs UK operations declined by 7.1% year-on-year to 73.3m (2023: 78.9m), which the charity said reflected a competitive and challenging fundraising environment. The charity spent more money on raising donations (19.2m, up from 17.2m), driven by greater investment in donor acquisition and digital marketing, which it said would strengthen its regular giving income and yield returns within three years. Islamic Reliefs record 304m expenditure, up from 235m the year before and more than double its spending in 2020, included 62.4m spent on livelihoods support, up from 16.9m in 2023. The charity reported delivering aid to over 14.5 million people in 38 countries including more than 1.8 million people in both Yemen and Syria. Islamic Relief employed 534 people on average in 2024 (2023: 494) and spent 20.6m on staff costs (2023: 18.2m). The charity paid chief executive Waseem Ahmad 142,000 in 2024, up from 125,000 the year before. It spent 106,000 on redundancies, up from 22,800 in 2023. Launching the report, Ahmad said: Thanks to our incredible global family of staff, supporters, volunteers and partners, Islamic Relief touched millions of lives in 2024. sign up to receive the Civil Society News daily bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, By Chalabala, Adobe More than 40 leaders of British NGOs including Oxfam, Islamic Relief and Christian Aid have signed a letter expressing global solidarity to mark one year since the countrys riots. The letter, signed by members of umbrella body Bonds CEO Anti-Racism Group, says that UK civil society has consistently failed to connect the poverty experienced in many parts of the UK with that faced by our international partners. It reads: As leaders, we must recognise our role in either perpetuating or challenging the unequal systems our organisations are part of. Tackling racism means confronting how power operates within our governance structures, funding relationships, and leadership cultures. It means confronting how we engage with partners and communities, how we think about expertise, and whose voices count. It means indeed questioning our very existence. Lena Bheeroo, head of anti-racism and equity at Bond, said it was positive to see sector leaders sign the statement at a time when anti-racism is being deprioritised and dismissed in some workplaces. Their shared message of solidarity is a powerful act of resistance and a clear acknowledgement that the work is far from over and there is still a long way to go, she said. Now is not the time to step back. By coming together in this way, they show that a different future is possible, one where anti-racism is sustained not out of pressure, but through care, conviction, and shared responsibility. Bonds letter follows a report published Peoples Health Trust last week, which urged mental health support for the staff of local charities managing the aftermath of last summers riots. Commission publishes Middle East guidance Meanwhile, the Charity Commission recently published a new webpage collating its guidance for charities operating in the Middle East. In response to this, Muslim Charities Forum chief executive Fadi Itani said: The guidance marks a proactive step by the commission, showing its dedication to helping charities navigate through complex legal and operational challenges. However, the framing must not lead to the discouragement of charities from delivering life-saving aid in some of the most vulnerable communities, creating a chilling effect on charitable activity. Rowan Popplewell, policy manager at Bond, said: Clear and comprehensive guidance from the regulator that signposts charity trustees to the resources and information they need is helpful. To improve their ability to operate in the Middle East and other regions affected by conflict, violence and political unrest, and reassure banks and other service providers supporting this work, NGOs need the UK government to urgently introduce a humanitarian exception in all UK autonomous sanctions regimes. Popplewell called for similar protections in counter terrorism regulations, urging ministers to discuss how to balance humanitarian aid and security. Separately, the commission recently said it would contact the attorney general over the legality of charities supporting beneficiaries in the occupied Palestinian territories (OPT) of the West Bank and Gaza. sign up to receive the Civil Society News daily bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, Adobe Stock / The Metropolitan Police is investigating after a homelessness charity reported that it had been defrauded of an estimated more than 160,000 by the employee of an external party applying for grants. St Martin-in-the-Fields Charity (SMITF) provides grants of up to 500 via frontline workers from organisations across the UK to help people at risk of homelessness move into new accommodation. Through its staffs due diligence, the charity said that it uncovered that one frontline worker had been making fraudulent grant claims. The charity immediately suspended the persons access to grants and reported the issue to the bank, the Metropolitan Police and the individuals employers. SMITF said that while the police investigation will provide a clearer picture, the individual had made applications to a value of just over 187,000, of which only around 20,000 were definitely legitimate. The charity, which recorded an income of 5.19m in the year to March 2024, said the alleged fraud was being treated with the utmost seriousness but that it was an isolated case accounting for less than 1% of the almost 45,000 grants (totalling nearly 15m) awarded through the programme since 2016. Shocked and hugely saddened As well as the Metropolitan Police, SMITF said that it had also reported the incident to Action Fraud and the Charity Commission. The charity also appointed Sayer Vincent to conduct a review of the grants programme, which included checking for other incidents of possible fraud. It said Sayer Vincents independent assessment concluded that there is: No evidence that the programme contains further systemic fraud. We believe that the grantmaking programme has been set up in a fundamentally sound way and is fit for purpose. The charity said it has also taken steps to make the grants programme even more rigorous to give further confidence to ourselves, partners and funders. Duncan Shrubsole, chief executive of St-Martin-in-the-Field Charity, said: We are all shocked and hugely saddened by what has happened and have acted decisively to investigate and report to the relevant authorities. Our priority remains tackling homelessness and continuing to provide the emergency grants that have already helped thousands cover costs that would otherwise have left them homeless. In the current climate this kind of crisis support is only going to become more important. A Charity Commission spokesperson told Civil Society: "We can confirm that, in line with our guidance, St Martin-in-the-Field Charity reported a serious incident in relation to suspected fraud committed against the charity. "We are confident that the trustees are currently responding appropriately to the incident, but will continue to monitor their progress in this respect. The Metropolitan Police and Action Fraud have been contacted for comment. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, OSCR The Scottish Charity Regulator OSCR has ordered an American company to stop misrepresenting itself as a charity registered in Scotland. In a recently published inquiry report , OSCR expressed concerns about material published on the website of Nicholas James Lee Gray LLC, a limited liability corporation in the United States. The regulator said a set of redacted accounts and copy of the James Gray Nicol Trusts registered logo on the website would suggest that Nicholas James Lee Gray LLC is somehow linked to the registered charity or a charity itself. OSCR is concerned that the publication of these documents on the bodys website is misleading and implies a link to the charity when no such link exists, its report reads. On 24 July, the regulator directed Nicholas James Lee Gray, an entrepreneur and owner of Nicholas James Lee Gray LLC, to stop representing his company as a charity registered in Scotland. At the time of writing, the US companys website displays both OSCRs and umbrella body SCVOs logos as well as the James Gray Nicol Trusts charity number. OSCR said its direction is valid for six months and expires on 24 January 2026, and can be revoked or varied during this period if it determines it appropriate to do so. Charity name change and integration with firm According to OSCRs website, the James Gray Nicol Trust was registered as a charity on 20 April 1977 and has the same address as the Church of Scotland in Edinburgh. Its stated objects include the preservation, maintenance and improvement of the Church of Scotlands retirement homes, particularly Clashfarquhar House in Stonehaven. Meanwhile, Nicholas James Lee Gray LLCs stated mission is to empower people and communities, with the company providing consultancy services to individuals about their finances using expertise in community land and development. In an email seen by Civil Society, Gray formally notified OSCR on 29 May of his intention to change the name of the charity to the Grayt Walk Of Life Tribal Trust as part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that our organisation remains in full compliance with all applicable legal frameworks and regulations, both domestically and internationally. OSCR said in its response, also seen by Civil Society, that changing a charitys name without having sought the regulators consent was not allowed, but that it might be allowed given further documentation. According to Nicholas James Lee Gray LLCs website , the company is undergoing a strategic restructuring, aligning with the Grayt Walk Of Life Tribal Trust. This restructuring process includes the formal recognition of the tribal trust and the integration of operations between the LLC and the trust, it reads. As we move forward with this transition, dedicated websites for each entity will be launched, outlining their respective governing documents, articles of incorporation, and legal compliance frameworks. These efforts ensure that all entities operate within both domestic and international legal requirements. Accounts for the year ending 31 December 2023 show that the trust recorded a total income of 92,940 against total expenditure of 125,119. Sign up for The Media Today, CJRs daily newsletter. In late December of 2023, when the news emerged that the New York Times had filed suit against OpenAI and Microsoft for copyright infringement, Bill Gross was at home in Pasadena, feeling somewhat indignant. Gross, who is sixty-six, is a grandaddy of the internet: in 1998, he founded GoTo.com, which introduced the idea of allowing advertisers to bid for placement in search engine resultsan auto company, for instance, could bid to appear high up in the results for best car. GoTo provided an effective, lasting strategy for monetizationone that made advertising through online search engines, rather than news publishers, highly appealing. Gross later left search technology to seek solutions to climate changemy true passion, he told me. But now something big was happening, and he couldnt look away. This is the first firing shot of a serious organization that has enough money to fight back, he remembers thinking. But how are all the individual, small creators going to win? OpenAI had debuted ChatGPT to the public about a year earlier and as its popularity surged, along with that of other generative AI products, Gross recognized that the problem for online publishers, including news outlets, went beyond the fact that their materials were being used to train large language models. The introduction of tools such as ChatGPT, which generate concise answers after unceremoniously scraping the internet for material, rather than producing a series of blue links to websites, meant that traditional search engines were bound to decline. You can type in your search and get your answer directly, which is a superior experience to getting breadcrumbs, he said. Who wouldnt want to get their answer directly? That would, of course, divert precious Web traffic from the original publishers of ransacked content, and, as Gross knew as well as anyone, fewer clicks would mean less advertising revenue. Its infringing on peoples creativity and on their copyright, he said. For the news industry, this could spell doom. So Gross, a problem-solver by nature, began mulling an idea. What if there were a way for publishers to receive attribution, and ultimately compensation, every time a chatbot surfaced material from their sites? I thought, What can we do to make a fair business model in this new era of better answers? Gross said. Then a solution came to him: large language models, the source of the problem, could also be the answer. On January 4, eight days after the Times case got off the ground, he walked into his attorneys office and filed a patent for the technology that would become his latest company: ProRata. The need, he felt, was urgent: Creativity and democracy are at stake, he said. ProRata, Gross told me, analyzes the entirety of an AI-generated answer and weighs how much of it came from various sources. It does so by comparing each individual statement a chatbot has made against a dataset of source material, used with the permission of a network of publishers, on which he trained his model. ProRata then produces a breakdown of the percent of each answer that came from a given website or document, factoring in what source reported the information first20 percent might come from The Atlantic, 5 percent from the Financial Times, and so on. The technology mirrors anti-plagiarism software used by college professors. And that whole thing can be done in a hundred milliseconds, he said. Key to ProRata, and true to Grosss background, is monetization. The system is designed to run targeted adswhich are clearly differentiated from the answers themselveswithin its interface. Half of the revenue generated by these ads goes back to ProRata, and the other half is distributed among the sources from which the answer drew. Currently, tools such as ChatGPT operate at a loss, earning money through subscription fees. But Gross believes that when they do start running adsits only a matter of timeadvertisers will be willing to pay a premium because AI-generated queries are more specific and detailed than old-fashioned search engine fodder, and that allows for more direct targeting. Gross had no trouble persuading publishers to get on board. One of the first was Nicholas Thompson, the CEO of The Atlantic. Last year, The Atlantic signed a licensing deal with OpenAI for use of its archivesbecause that, Thompson told me, was better than nothing. Of the five prominent large language model companies that have used The Atlantics data, he pointed out, only OpenAI had agreed to compensate it in any way. But when Gross approached him with his idea for an alternative, Thompson was intrigued. My second-favorite solution is to have the LLM providers compensate the media industry for what they did and for the value weve provided, as OpenAI is doing, Thompson said. But my favorite solution to this problem is to have something like ProRata technology and architecture underlying all of LLM solutions, he added. Theyre solving this at the root level. He quickly agreed to partner with ProRata, sharing The Atlantics archive and volunteering to serve on the companys board. Today, The Atlantic is one of more than five hundred publishersFortune magazine and the Financial Times among themthat have agreed to allow the company to train its model on their archives. Sign up for CJRs daily email Thats given ProRata a busy start, though Gross doesnt expect to transform the system overnight. He remembers that when he first introduced his idea for paid search, Yahoo immediately came out to say that the company would never adopt it. Two years later, Yahoo struck a hundred-million-dollar deal with him. Two years after that, Yahoo acquired GoTo. Which is to say: in his experience, even the kind of change that seems most unlikely can happen with time. Im in this for a decade-long effort to shift peoples views, Gross said. I think that long term, the right side of history will be protecting creative rights. Depending on the outcome of the Times suit, companies may be compelled by law to adopt a system like the one Gross has developed. In the meantime, ProRata is operating a chatbot, called Gist Search, that compensates publishers (including, Gross noted, Wikipedia) when their content is surfaced. But for ProRata to really make an impact, it would need to be integrated by the dominant large language models. Gross can see a world where publishers increasingly band together to block the Web crawlers that LLMs rely on to harvest data. If they did this, he said, AI companies wouldnt be left with enough material to work withand that might lead, say, OpenAI to ProRata voluntarily. Whether thats possible, though, is uncertain, since many media companies have already struck deals like The Atlantics, and there is evidence that Web scrapers dont always respect the line of code meant to block them. Theres no question its a battle, Gross said. I asked him why, after pivoting to saving the Earth, he was willing to come back to digital publishing. Creators need to have a reason for doing their creative work, Gross said. If that goes away, if theres no incentive, then everything will all turn to AI slop. He paused for a moment. Well all be AI slop. Modern-day snake catchers reflect China's evolving human-nature ties 10:05, July 29, 2025 By Zhang Yunlong, Wu Wenxu and Luo Xin ( Xinhua This photo provided by the local fire authorities shows a firefighter capturing a snake in a residential compound in Huairou District, Beijing, capital of China, June 17, 2025. (Xinhua) BEIJING, July 28 (Xinhua) -- On the quiet, suburban edges of Beijing, firefighters -- more accustomed to battling flames and responding to accidents -- arrive with snake hooks and capture bags as an unlikely drama unfolds. On July 21, firefighters from Qiaozi Fire Station in Huairou District were called to a farmer's home, where a large rat snake had entered a chicken coop. Agitated from feeding, the snake was aggressive and attempted to strike. After a tense few moments, the firefighters successfully captured the snake using a specialized clamp, secured it in a bag, and relocated it safely away from human settlements. As urban environments become more hospitable to wildlife, these slithering intrusions are becoming anything but rare, especially in the suburbs. By July 21, Huairou firefighters had responded to a record 64 snake-related calls in 2025, surpassing the 55 calls recorded over the entirety of 2024. And Beijing is hardly alone. Across China, snake encounters are becoming more frequent, with fire departments in other regions reporting a similar uptick in calls -- a shift that speaks to the country's changing relationship with nature. SHIFTING NARRATIVES: FROM FEAR TO COEXISTENCE As firefighters respond to snake-related emergencies, their role as modern-day snake catchers draws an ancient parallel. In the ninth-century tale "The Tale of the Snake Catcher" by Liu Zongyuan, villagers also captured snakes, risking their lives to obtain venomous creatures for medical use by the imperial court, in exchange for tax exemptions. "In the wilderness of Yongzhou, a peculiar species of snake thrives, its body dark with white markings. When it touches plants or trees, they wither and die. If bitten by this snake, there is no known antidote to its venom," the story reads. Liu's tale paints a grim picture of humanity's relentless struggle with nature, documenting a time when snakes were captured as a means of survival for villagers forced to do so by oppressive taxes. Today, however, the narrative has shifted. Snakes are no longer seen merely as dangerous creatures, but as vital parts of the ecosystem, and deserving of protection and respect. This shift echoes broader cultural and legal changes. On May 1, 2023, China put into effect a revised, stricter Wildlife Protection Law, reinforcing the country's commitment to conservation. The law prohibits the consumption-driven hunting, trade or transport of terrestrial wild animals that grow and reproduce naturally in the wild. As urban development becomes more eco-conscious, firefighters are now playing a pivotal role in managing human-wildlife interactions, ensuring both public safety and the protection of local wildlife. "Snakes can be quite aggressive when we find them," said Wang Qiong, chief of Qiaozi Fire Station. "They require quick thinking and careful handling to ensure both human and animal safety." Niu Xiaoyu, deputy head of Longquan Fire Station in Beijing's Mentougou District, recalls responding to his first snake-related call in April 2022. The warm weather had brought snakes into their active period. Called out to a village in the mountains, Niu, who was then unfamiliar with snakes, was nervous as the team searched a pile of debris. "Snakes love hiding in small spaces," he said. After clearing the debris, they made quick work of securing the snake's tail and placing it in a bag. Over time, Niu became adept at distinguishing venomous and non-venomous species. "With the right techniques and full protective gear -- we never wear short sleeves or shorts -- handling these calls is manageable," he added. Yang Kaibin, head of Huairou's Tanghekou Rescue Station, often talks with residents when he responds to snake calls. He said that according to locals, they would often use tools like shovels or picks to deal with snakes on their own a decade ago. "Now, when the same people encounter a snake, their first instinct is to call us," Yang said. "We capture and release the snakes safely, protecting both the animals and the community." BIG PICTURE: SNAKES IN ECOLOGY The rising frequency of snake encounters is tied to broader shifts in the ecosystem. "Snakes are an essential component of the region's natural environment," said Tian Hengjiu, acting head of the Beijing Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. In rural areas, snakes help control populations of pests such as rats, while also serving as a food source for various carnivorous mammals and birds of prey. As Beijing's ecological landscape improves, there is more food for snakes, such as small mammals and insects, which could lead to an increase in their population. The city's green spaces, like parks and ecological corridors, also provide snakes with more habitats. Official figures show Beijing added 10,000 mu (667 hectares) of newly afforested land alongside 200 hectares of urban green space in 2024 alone, expanding access to nature for both humans and wildlife. About 91 percent of the capital's population now lives within 500 meters of a park. Other factors are also believed to have contributed to the rise in snake sightings. "As more people engage in outdoor activities like hiking and camping, they are more likely to encounter snakes," Tian said. And warmer seasons, which are lengthening due to climate change, could also extend the period of the year during which snakes are active, according to firefighters. These trends, along with a cultural shift toward seeking professional help during snake encounters, have led to an increase in calls to emergency services. BEYOND BEIJING: A NATIONWIDE TREND The trend isn't confined to Beijing. In late June, a video posted online by the local fire department in Quanzhou, east China's Fujian Province, went viral after a large python was spotted coiled by the roadside in Dehua County. Firefighters responded swiftly, safely capturing the 3-meter, 19-kilogram snake and relocating it to a secure area before handing it over to wildlife authorities. Similar incidents have been reported in other regions. In one case, a rat snake was found coiled under an electric bicycle in Fuyang City, east China's Anhui Province, on May 20. In another, a venomous cobra was spotted in a furniture factory in the southwestern province of Guizhou on May 18. "Snakes generally don't attack unless provoked," said Niu Xiaoyu. "If you encounter a snake, remain calm, retreat slowly, avoid sudden movements, and never attempt to capture or harm it." In their new snake catcher roles, firefighters handle the creatures with care and release them back into the wild, becoming symbols of Chinese society's changing attitude toward wildlife. As of January 2023, China had recorded 312 species of snakes, researchers say, making it one of the most snake-diverse countries in the world. One can't help but wonder what Liu Zongyuan might think if he were alive today. A thousand years on, snakes remain, but the narrative surrounding them has shifted -- from fear and survival to coexistence and protection. This photo provided by the local fire authorities shows firefighters capturing a snake at a residential home in Huairou District, Beijing, capital of China, June 15, 2025. (Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Sign up for The Media Today, CJRs daily newsletter. Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, has long ridden US media trends to get his message acrossand so it was no surprise recently when he stepped into the so-called manosphere, or the constellation of podcasts and Web shows that generally have a right-wing or populist bent, are influential among young American men, and have widely been credited with helping Donald Trump return to the White House last year. During a visit to the US earlier this month, Netanyahu sat down with two members of the Nelk Boys, a collective of fratty pro-Trump pranksters. I see so much stuff about whats going on in Israel and Iran and Palestine, and to be honest, I just really dont know what is going on there, one of the hosts said; the other said that he was hoping that the interview might help him get educated. Mostly, Netanyahu was happy to oblige. But the interviewers did push back on one of his claims. When Netanyahu was asked for his go-to McDonalds order, he replied that actually, he prefers Burger King. One of the hosts looked quietly disgusted. Burger King kinda sucks, he said. The other deemed this to be Netanyahus worst take. The day after the interview went up on YouTube, an association that represents journalists at the news agency Agence France-Presse warned that their colleagues in Gaza are starving to death. Since AFP was founded in August 1944, we have lost journalists in conflicts, we have had wounded and prisoners in our ranks, a statement read, but none of us can recall seeing a colleague die of hunger. AFP bosses echoed the concerns, and were later joined in doing so by their counterparts at the Associated Press, Reuters, and the BBC. Last Wednesday, Meghnad Bose shared testimony from journalists in Gaza in a piece for CJR. Some of us drink salt water just to remain standing while we work. Others chew dried herbs or wild leaves to quiet the screaming inside, one, Abdulrahman Ismail, told Bose. There are moments when my hands tremble too hard to hold a pen, when I cant focus my eyes on the camera lens in front of me. (I used to chase the truth, Ismail added, quoting a colleague. Now I chase calories.) The days since then have brought similar accounts. I am drowning in hunger, trembling in exhaustion, and resisting the fainting that follows me every moment, Anas al-Sharif, a journalist at Al Jazeera, wrote online. Gaza is dying. And we die with it. Meanwhile, journalists in Gaza have continued to face all the other threats that have rained down on them since Hamas attacked Israel from the enclave on October 7, 2023, and Israel responded by bombarding the territory. On Thursday, as al-Sharifs post reverberated through the worlds media, the Committee to Protect Journalists warned that it was greatly worried for his physical safety, reporting that, after al-Sharif cried on air while covering the starvation crisis, an Israeli military spokesperson repeatedly attacked him online, including by falsely alleging that he is a Hamas terrorist; as CPJ noted, Israel has leveled similar accusations at other journalists in Gaza before killing them, including four of al-Sharifs colleagues at Al Jazeera. On Friday, it was reported that a different journalist, Adam Abu Harbid, had been killed in an air strike; CPJs count of journalists killed since October 7 currently stands at 186, and other groups have pegged the figure at over two hundred. While reporters inside Gaza are facing intensifying danger, Israel has mostly refused to let reporters from outside Gaza enter the territory; almost all of those who have gotten in have done so under Israeli military escort. Over the weekend, major international outlets called on Israel to let starving media workers out and their reporters in, so that they might see whats happening inside Gaza for themselves. Yesterday, after Israel agreed to let planes from Jordan and the United Arab Emirates air-drop aid packages into Gaza (among other concessions), the BBCs Jeremy Bowen reported that hed been allowed to film on the Jordanian planebut not out of the windows, because Israeli officials told their Jordanian counterparts they didnt want that. The airdrops, Bowen reported, wont make much of a difference on the ground; mostly, they are symbolic, he said, adding that they look good on television, and they give the impression that somethings being done. He also noted, however, that the fact they were happening at all was clearly an Israeli response to mounting international pressure. That pressure has, in no small part, been diplomatic, but it has also been mediated through the worlds press in recent daysand not just in the progressive quarters that one might expect. Some critics of mainstream US coverage of Gaza have noted that the starvation story has become too big for major outlets to avoid centering (even if the critics continue to take issue with what they see as passive language and other framing flaws). Similar could be said of the commentariat. Ross Douthat, a conservative columnist at the New York Times, wrote on Saturday that while he still sees Israels war in Gaza as rooted in a just cause, Israels warmaking at this moment is unjust. (There is no way to look at the rubble in Gaza and the death-toll estimates and offer a mathematical proof that Israel is failing to exercise adequate restraint. I just think its true, he wrote. Deaths from famine are a clearer matter, which is why the threat of starvation is leading even some of Israels strongest supporters to warn its government that something must be changed.) Even members of the manosphere have been harshly critical of Israel of late. This is, in no small part, reflective of the fact that many of the young right-wingers who populate such spaces have very different views on the country than traditional Republicans; some of them, it must also be noted, have trafficked in anti-Semitism and even Holocaust denial. But there is a clear moral revulsion at play, too. Broadly speaking, the latter has been driven in no small part by horrifying recent images out of Gaza, in particular those showing children who appear to be severely malnourished. Somethings flipped, the former CNN correspondent Alex Marquardt observed. People who never or rarely post about the horrors in Gaza now are. Journalists who mightve held back are posting more. Clearly the flood of photos of emaciated babies has tipped the balance. On air last week, his former colleague Abby Phillip similarly described the imagery as an inflection point. (Peter Beinart, a CNN panelist who wrote the recent book Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza: A Reckoning, responded by asking, Why did it take this long?) One image that got a lot of attentionincluding on the front page of the British tabloid the Daily Express, which is about as far as one can get from being a bastion of bleeding-heart liberalismwas subsequently called into question by critics who pointed to reporting from CNN that the child suffers from a muscle disorder, and suggested that the photo was thus being used to propagate a false narrative to smear Israel. But CNNs story noted the muscle disorder as a way to stress that the shortage of food is harming the most vulnerable most acutely, and other reports have shared similar stories, with or without photos. Gathering comprehensive statistics is difficult, since Gaza is a war zone and Israel has placed entry restrictions on outside groups, but various UN agencies and aid organizations have painted a dire picture. This morning, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, a UN-backed initiative, reported that the worst-case scenario of famine is currently playing out in the Gaza Strip. Israel has, among other targets, blamed Hamas for the disruption of aid supplies, and even of stealing from them. But senior Israeli military officials told the Times recently that they never proved that the latter was happening in any systematic way, at least not when it came to supplies from the UN, the biggest supplier of aid. (Separately, the Times has noted that the malnutrition appears largely linked to Israels decision to block aid between March and May, and to the way it chose to end that blockade.) And in remarks over the weekend, Netanyahu went further, claiming that there is no starvation in Gaza, period. Yesterday, even Trump refuted this. He cited the recent imagery out of Gaza in doing so: asked whether he agreed with Netanyahus assessment, he replied that based on television, I would say not particularly, because those children look very hungry; he added, thats real starvation stuff. I see it, and you cant fake that. Trump is not normally a reliable guide to whats fake and what isnt, and the TV can lie. Still, as The Atlantics David A. Graham put it last night, Trump appeared to have arrived at the right conclusion in a terrible way. Over the years, as Ive written before, Netanyahu has been deft at using interviews on US TV to project a certain imagetough, but reasonable, even jovial sometimes; either way, a big world man, as one Israeli observer once put it to mebut this time, the power of that medium seems to have worked against him. His recent foray into new media seems to have fallen on deaf ears, too: his interview with the Nelk Boys was widely panned; according to NBC, the YouTube channel on which it appeared lost some ten thousand subscribers in the aftermath. On Monday of last week, the hosts defended the interview: Someone has to do it, one of them said. And if we have to fucking take the fall, and be the bad guys (this was accompanied by an aggressive pair of air quotes) for having the controversial people on, I think were willing to do it. (Besides, they added, the other side would be given an opportunity to respond on the following episode.) Nonetheless, the pair did concede that theyre not the best journalists, and never claimed to be. As they spoke, actual journalists in Gaza were eating rice, if anything at all. They know whats going on. Sign up for CJRs daily email As a transportation claims specialist, Im increasingly seeing evidence that thieves are exploiting weaknesses within technologies intended to improve efficiency in the supply chain, and the logistics industry is struggling to fight back. This has led to a spate of recent cargo theft issues in the U.S., which has been driving larger supply chain implications. As sophisticated fraud schemes surge, including impersonated freight brokers, doctored paperwork, and manipulated load boards, these new threats are exposing gaps in traditional insurance policies and claims processes. Motor truck cargo legal liability policies are written to cover liability for the freight being transported. But in the face of the latest fraud and theft activity, coverage can be insufficient or excluded. From exclusions like voluntary parting, where cargo carriers unknowingly surrender goods to bad actors, to the legal jurisdiction maze that hampers timely recovery and enforcement when stolen loads traverse state lines, theres a lot to unpack. Fraudulent Bills of Lading Standard practice in the shipping industry is for a bill of lading to be provided to the driver. The driver then takes that document to the shipper, who loads the vehicle with cargo. These exchanges present ample opportunity for savvy threat actors to produce fraudulently doctored bills of lading, impersonate freight brokers and take loads that dont belong to them. If the shipper and the driver are not prudent enough to evaluate the paperwork and validate its integrity, once the vehicle leaves, the cargo is gone. Now that perpetrators have figured out how to get a load off the load board and doctor the paperwork, the best defense would be to start developing internal strategies to validate that paperwork. What makes it authentic? What makes it original? Is the information correct? If there is something amiss, what is the process to alert the shipper that theres something wrong with the paperwork so that they dont release the load for transport? The answers to these questions are evolving as industry-wide recognition grows about the need to create an accepted format in order to see a reduction in fraud and theft. Shippers and logistics personnel are gradually getting on board and working with new systems to help themselves. But in the simplest of terms, we could expect to see some level of fraud reduction if the motor carrier simply compares its paperwork with the shippers paperwork to ensure that it matches. Do both shipper and recipient have the same destination? Do they have the same description? Is paperwork consistent across systems and touchpoints? These are questions that should be asked at every point of departure. There are measures available on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website for validating Department to Transportation and motor carrier numbers to assist with this, as well as checking EIN numbers to confirm authenticity of the parties involved with transporting freight. Validation is so essential because motor truck cargo policies have a voluntary parting exclusion, which states that if the motor carrier voluntarily parts with the cargo theyve been assigned, its typically not covered even if theyve voluntarily parted with it based on fraudulent paperwork. The coverage isnt triggered because its a voluntary action, even if the parties involved acted based on falsified information. The Promise of GPS Tracking And Bioluminescence A recent trend to prevent theft is to place bioluminescent tracking mechanisms in cargo pallets to track the movement of the load. While tracking is great, bioluminescence is extremely expensive, and many motor carriers cant afford these sophisticated processes and products. A less expensive alternative is to put a GPS tracking device in pallets between the product, so that as the pallets move around, so does the GPS. The same can be done with GPS tracking on a trailer; if a motor carrier has a good GPS system in place, they can literally track the movement of that product. One challenge with this technique is that many perpetrators have figured out that if they displace the load in multiple locations, its nearly impossible for the freight owner to catch up with them. They may take some of the product to one location and more product to another location, knowing that by the time the victim figures out that they have been robbed, the cargo is long gone. I had a claim recently in which the motor carrier was watching where the truck was moving through the Northeastthey saw the driver stop eight different times and offload the product and disperse it across the area. To go back and find that product or the perpetrator, disappeared before anybody caught up with him, was nearly impossible. The biggest obstacle, as this client discovered, is that once the cargo is on the move, trying to get legal authorities to find and stop the vehicle is extraordinarily tricky. Once that cargo leaves the shipper, its challenging to catch up with it before it becomes displaced, as local law enforcement wont get involved as cargo travels. Even if a shipper can literally track their product all through the country, law enforcement will refer them back to authorities in the jurisdiction where it originatedand at that point, its already gone. Wake-up Call These are issues that are impacting the supply chain and influencing internal processes for shippers and logistics companies of all sizes. They must re-examine their procedures, reconsider how loads are accepted and redetermine what type of checks and balances must be in place to evaluate the paperwork. This is not an issue for just one set of stakeholders to address. The time has come for a call to action for the industry. The larger motor carriers with great resources behind them and the smaller motor carriers that perhaps dont have the funds for expensive technology, must work together to develop processes that can be used industry-wide. Insurance policies are what they are; they provide coverage, but that coverage is predicated on conditions and exclusions that must be met in order to trigger that coverage. Otherwise, the loss falls back to the motor carrier. And as a claims executive, thats so hard to watchbecause so many of these incidents are preventable. Steinbeck is a senior casualty general adjuster for Crawford. She has years of experience in inland marine and domestic freight, perishable cargo, heavy equipment and related industries. Her knowledge spans dry bulk, general freight, invention and prototype equipment. Two funeral homes allegedly gave grieving parents their deceased sons brain in a box, which began to smell, leaked into their car and got on the fathers hands when he moved it, according to an updated lawsuit filed last week. The father, Lawrence Butler, said the discovery was overwhelming at a news conference, leaving a horrific memory that mars the other memories of a good young man, their son, Timothy Garlington. It was, and it is still, in my heart that I got in my car and I smelled death, he said, emotion breaking his voice. Garlingtons mother, Abbey Butler, stood nearby, wiping away tears. After Garlingtons death in 2023, the Butlers had his remains shipped from one funeral home in Georgia to another in Pennsylvania, where they picked up his belongings, including a white cardboard box that contained an unlabeled red box. At Nix & Nix Funeral Homes, Abbey Butler couldnt open the red box, said the Butlers attorney, L. Chris Stewart, at the news conference. Several days later, the red box, which was in the Butlers car, began to smell and leak fluid, Stewart said. When Lawrence Butler picked it up, the fluid covered his hands, which was brain matter. Its insane, Stewart said. When they called the funeral home in Georgia, Southern Cremations & Funerals at Cheatham Hill, they were told it was Garlingtons brain and some mistake had been made, Stewart said. The Butlers returned the box to Nix & Nix, he said. The company that owns Southern Cremations, ASV Partners, declined to comment when contacted by the AP. The parents last memory is holding their sons brain, said Stewart in an interview with The Associated Press. I had to get rid of that car, Lawrence Butler said, I just couldnt stand the idea that the remains were in that car. The lawsuit says that both funeral homes negligently mishandled human remains and intentionally, wantonly or recklessly inflicted emotional distress. Stewart said he had consulted other funeral homes, and that at no point in the process is the brain separated from body in that fashion and shipped in that fashion. If it ever is, he said, then it is in a sealed bag and labeled biohazardous. Whether or not Nix & Nix knew a brain was inside the box, Stewart alleges, they shouldnt have handed the box over to the Butlers because it was not on the list of belongings sent from Southern Cremations. Julian Nix, the manager of the titular funeral home, told the AP that it was definitely not our fault because Southern Cremations had sent them the unlabeled box. Nix said they reported it to authorities once they learned what was inside. An investigation had been done by the state board overseeing funeral homes that found they werent responsible, he said, but the documents proving that werent yet available. The Butlers are seeking compensation and answers to what went wrong. They also hope the lawsuit acts as a warning, so that similar incidents wont happen again. Garlington, a veteran of the U.S. Marines who was working in financial aid for schools, has since been buried in Washington Crossing National Cemetery. Stewart, who declined to say how Garlington died at age 56, said the Butlers still dont know whether Garlingtons brain was buried with the rest of him. They fear, which is totally understandable: Is he resting in peace? he said. Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Shanghai is bracing for heavy rain from a tropical storm thats tracking toward Chinas financial hub, a day after flooding killed at least 30 people in Beijing and cut power to villages. The heaviest precipitation in Shanghai is forecast to occur on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, with some places potentially receiving 220 millimeters (8.7 inches), according to the national weather service. The storm, which struck the Philippines last week, will move past Zhoushan to the south of the mega-city home to some of Chinas largest oil storage tanks and refineries. The torrential downpour that soaked Beijing on Monday led to more than 80,000 people being relocated, according to state-broadcaster China Central Television, which reported the casualties. Another four deaths were reported in neighboring Hebei province due to a landslide caused by heavy rains. Beijings deadly flooding is the latest in a recent string of extreme weather events that have caused casualties around the world. Earlier this month, heavy rain in Texas claimed more than 130 lives, while torrential precipitation across Pakistan since June has led to over 200 fatalities. And last October, floods in Valencia killed more than 220 people across the Spanish region. According to state media, one district of Beijing recorded 543.4 millimeters of rain between Thursday and midnight on Monday. The Chinese capital typically averages around 580 millimeters annually, indicating that some areas of the city got nearly a years worth of precipitation in the past few days. Premier Li Qiang said rain and flooding in Beijings suburban district of Miyun had resulted in significant casualties, according to Xinhua News Agency. Twenty eight people died in the district, CCTV reported. Rains are expected to ease in Beijing, but Shanghai is set for a drenching. Storm Co-may was 425 kilometers (264 miles) from Zhejiang province early on Tuesday, and the system is expected to strengthen slightly as it tracks closer to the coast, according to the national weather bureau. The storm is predicted to make landfall around Shanghai, or to the citys south on Wednesday, and it may linger and bring prolonged wind and rain, the state forecaster said. A slow-moving system risks serious flooding. In the first half of 2025, China recorded 54.11 billion yuan ($7.5 billion) in losses from natural disasters, much of it from floods, according to figures from the national emergency response agency reported by state media. The adverse weather has caused flight delays and cancellations in airports across Beijing, Shanghai, and Ningbo. The downpours began over the weekend, shutting major tourist sites and suspending public transport services. Top photo: Submerged residential buildings after heavy rains on the outskirts of Beijing on July 28. Photographer: Jade Gao/AFP/Getty Images. Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. The reversal of dozens of enforcement actions by the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has jeopardized more than $360 million in compensation to consumers allegedly harmed by financial companies, according to an analysis released Tuesday by pro-consumer organizations. The compensation relates to allegations of predatory practices by lenders, student loan servicers, money transfer businesses and others pursued by the CFPB in recent years. The latest estimate from the Consumer Federation of America and Student Borrower Protection Center adds to what critics of President Donald Trumps administration say is the mounting cost to ordinary people from his clampdown on the CFPB. The two organizations also said last month that the CFPBs rollback of regulations on overdraft and credit card late fees and the dismissal of enforcement cases would increase consumer costs by $18 billion. The CFPBs current leaders have said they are changing the agencys focus and have criticized prior enforcement actions as politicized and unfair attacks on free enterprise. The agency now says it can meet its obligations under the law with about 90% fewer employees. According to the analysis released Tuesday, recent CFPB actions to revise or cancel consumer payouts due from settlements dating back as far as 2023 with Navy Federal Credit Union, the lending arm of Toyota7203.T, National Collegiate Student Loan Trusts and the money transfer company Wise together account for more than $120 million. The authors, former top CFPB officials Eric Halperin and Allison Preiss, say these reversals cast doubt on dozens of other prior cases involving more than $244 million in further consumer payouts that the CFPB may have yet to approve or process, such funds arising from actions against Cash App parent BlockXYZ.N and student loan processor Navient. Congress created the CFPB following the 2008 financial crisis to protect consumers from unfair, deceptive or abusive practices. A federal appeals court in Washington has yet to decide on the legality of the CFPBs attempt this year to dismiss the vast majority of its staff. (Reporting by Gillison in Washington; Editing by Stephen Coates) When And Just Like That dropped its latest episode this past week, viewers watched as Carrie Bradshaw broke things off, again, with longtime love Aidan Shaw. The emotional scene had fans reflecting not only on Carrie's romantic past, but on that other complicated relationship from the original Sex and the City: her whirlwind affair with Russian artist Aleksandr Petrovsky, played by ballet legend Mikhail Baryshnikov. The breakup with Aidan reopened old wounds for loyal fans, and the internet lit up with a simple but curious question: Whatever happened to the man who played "The Russian"? Misha's Still Here Just Offstage Now 77, Mikhail Baryshnikov remains an iconic figure in the world of dance and performing arts. While he's long retired from the stage, he's far from gone. In fact, he's thriving just behind the curtain. Baryshnikov is the founder and artistic director of the Baryshnikov Arts Center in New York City, which celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025. The center has become a creative sanctuary for dancers, choreographers, musicians, and multidisciplinary artists from around the world. Every season, it hosts residencies and showcases that reflect Misha's lifelong mission: to support the next generation of creators. Speaking to Barron's earlier this year, he said: "We want to give artists the opportunity to fail, to explore. That's what this space is for." From Petrovsky to Patron While Carrie's Paris romance with Petrovsky ended with heartbreak (and a dramatic slap), Baryshnikov's real-life story continues to inspire. After defecting from the Soviet Union in 1974, he became one of the greatest ballet dancers of all time, later starring in films like White Nights and, of course, the final season of Sex and the City. In 2025, Baryshnikov delivered the official International Dance Day message, reminding the world of the power of movement and creativity in uncertain times. "Dance has the power to make the invisible visible," he wrote. "To give voice to the voiceless and move people beyond borders." He also continues to speak out politically. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Baryshnikov has been a vocal critic of the Kremlin and a co-founder of the True Russia initiative, which raises funds for Ukrainian relief and supports cultural resistance. A Presence in New York Not Paris So no, Baryshnikov isn't in Paris. He's in Manhattan attending galas at Lincoln Center, supporting avant-garde theater, and mentoring young talent through his nonprofit. Just this spring, he was spotted at the Chaplin Award Gala honoring Pedro Almodovar, looking sharp and still magnetic in his quiet, graceful way. And while Petrovsky remains one of SATC's most divisive love interests (he did, after all, hit Carrie and leave her sobbing in a hotel suite), Baryshnikov's presence on the show was unforgettable sophisticated, mysterious, and very, very European. So... Could He Come Back? Don't count on it. While HBO hasn't hinted at a return for Petrovsky in And Just Like That, fans still haven't forgotten his impact. On social media, users reminisced about "Carrie's Paris era," with one viral tweet reading: "Aidan's out. Bring back Petrovsky just to wreak a little more havoc." But Baryshnikov has moved on and upward. He's not chasing Carrie down the Seine. He's building artistic bridges in Chelsea. Ayman Soliman, a former chaplain at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, was arrested by immigration agents on July 9. Courtesy Ohio Immigration Alliance CLEVELAND, Ohio A former chaplain at Cincinnati Childrens Hospital will remain jailed on controversial civil immigration charges after an immigration judge ruled she couldnt grant bond because of allegations that he supported a terrorist organization. Attorneys for Ayman Soliman have argued that the terrorism accusation has no merit and is based on a warped reading of scholarly journals, whose authors have since denounced Homeland Securitys use of their work. One of Solimans attorneys, Robert Ratliff, said the bond decision could mean Soliman will stay jailed for about a year. That stay would continue through a trial in about three months and any appeals. This should scare every asylee in the history of the United States, Ratliff said at a news conference following the hearing. Soliman on Tuesday had a brief hearing in front of Immigration Judge Jennifer Riedthaler-Williams, who made the bond ruling late Monday in Cleveland. She set a new hearing for Aug. 12 to determine if Soliman can be deported. During the hearing, Soliman asked the judge if he could be granted access to Zoom classes for a masters degree in divinity that hes pursuing while detained in the Butler County Jail. He has been held since his July 9 arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. The judge told his attorney to make arrangements with jail officials. Soliman, who served as the childrens hospital chaplain for four years and is an imam at Clifton Mosque, is at the center of a national firestorm over his arrest. He fled Egypt in 2014 after helping journalists cover the Arab Spring uprisings and was arrested and tortured in that country, according to his attorneys. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services granted him asylum in 2018, giving him legal status to remain in the United States because returning him to Egypt would likely result in his persecution. His attorneys said that if hes deported to Egypt, he faces almost certain death. In 2021, he sued the federal government after a background check for a job showed the FBI flagged him for potential links to a terrorist organization. The case is ongoing, but federal officials have since said he was noticed because he once worked for a charity in Egypt that had a tangential link to the Muslim Brotherhood, an Islamic group that came to power in Egypt after the uprising. U.S. officials have not declared either the charity or the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organization. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in December 2024 revoked Solimans asylum status under the same grounds. ICE agents then arrested him during a routine check-in with immigration officials. He has no criminal history. Homeland Security attorneys in the immigration case initially charged Soliman with supporting terrorism. Last week, they took those accusations out of the allegations. They argued, however, that Riedthaler-Williams had no authority to grant a bond to Soliman because a separate agency, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, had levied terrorism-related accusations against him. Solimans attorneys sued the federal government twice since his arrest. In the first case, his attorney successfully argued for a judge to temporarily order Homeland Security to keep him in Ohio before a decision was made on Solimans bond. That case will be dismissed soon because of the immigration judges bond ruling, Ratliff said. His attorneys also filed a lawsuit Friday in federal court in Cincinnati that seeks a judges order to reinstate Solimans asylum status and to order his release on bond. It says federal officials used Solimans work for a charity, Al-Gamiyya al-Shariyya, as proof he supported terrorism. Soliman was a board member and donor for one of about 1,000 local branches of the charity that focused on giving medical and other charitable relief, his attorneys have said. The lawsuit said that Soliman has no knowledge of what upper-level officials in the national organization did or didnt do. In addition, the organization itself had no links to the Muslim Brotherhood. Homeland Security used two scholarly journals to support their accusations to revoke his asylum and to fight his immigration court case. Both works were published before 2018, when Soliman was granted asylum, and were misinterpreted, attorneys said in the lawsuit. Both authors University of Wisconsin-Madison associate professor Steven Brooke and Marie Vannetzel, a researcher at Frances National Center for Scientific Research wrote letters on behalf of Solimans case that denounced their works usage. Vannetzels letter called Homeland Security officials interpretation a dishonest manipulation of her work. She wrote that the charity had a limited history of involvement with the Muslim Brotherhood and had nothing to do with terrorism. Brookes letter said the charity operated independently and cooperates with the government only for charitable purposes and that Homeland Security made important mistakes of fact and interpretation in using his work. Homeland Security attorneys said in the immigration case they have enough evidence to show a link between the two organizations. They have not yet filed any responses to Fridays lawsuit. He has already been granted asylum once, and we strongly believe he should be granted asylum again, Ratliff said. The U.S. government warns Americans not to travel to Haiti, citing extreme violence, kidnappings, and limited medical resources. Getty Images The U.S. government has reissued its travel advisory for Haiti with the addition of a terrorism indicator, maintaining the country at Level 4: Do Not Travel status. The advisory explicitly warns Americans against traveling to Haiti due to widespread kidnapping, crime, terrorist activity, civil unrest, and limited healthcare resources. Do not travel to Haiti for any reason, the U.S. Department of State said in its advisory. Haiti has been under a state of emergency since 2024, with violent crime involving firearms being commonplace throughout the country. The kidnapping situation in Haiti has reached alarming levels, the State Department said, with U.S. citizens among those who have been victimized, injured, or killed. Ransoms demanded by kidnappers have ranged from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to the advisory. Security around Port-au-Prince International Airport has deteriorated significantly, with gunfire exchanges involving criminal gangs, organized crime groups, and terrorists occurring in nearby neighborhoods, the advisory warned. U.S. commercial flights are not currently operating to or from Port-au-Prince after the Federal Aviation Administration issued a Notice to Airmen prohibiting flights due to ongoing instability. The State Department emphasizes that the U.S. government has very limited ability to assist American citizens in Haiti. Local emergency services are severely under-resourced, and shortages of basic necessities like gasoline, electricity, medicine, and medical supplies are common nationwide, the advisory said. For those who nevertheless decide to travel to Haiti, the State Department said travelers should avoiding demonstrations, arranging secure transportation, developing communication plans with family, establishing proof-of-life protocols, and traveling in groups. The advisory also recommends enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive embassy alerts to make it easier for officials to locate Americans during emergencies. This story was written with the assistance of AI. Ohios expanded sales tax holiday runs August 114, and it covers far more than just school supplies. Most tangible items priced at $500 or lessincluding clothes, electronics, even pet foodare tax-free. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip, File) AP Rotunda Rumblings Tax-Free Shopping: Ohios expanded sales tax holiday runs August 114, and it covers far more than just school supplies. Most tangible items priced at $500 or lessincluding clothes, electronics, even pet foodare tax-free. Anna Staver has answers to all your questions about what qualifies, what doesnt, and how to make the most of it. Stadium questions: While the state will soon offer $600 million toward a new Cleveland Browns stadium, Browns and Brook Park officials say theyre still hashing out whether taxpayers would end up on the hook for the new stadiums repair and maintenance costs. Rich Exner has more on that, as well as exactly who will own the stadium (it wouldnt be the Browns!) and receive the $600 million. Steel Mill Blues: Vice President JD Vance used a stop Monday in his native Ohio to try to sell steelworkers on the GOPs One Big, Beautiful tax and spending bill, Mary Frances McGowan reports. Vances stop in Northeast Ohio represents his second trip this month to assume the role as the Trump administrations top promoter of the GOP legislation. Like his recent visit to West Pittston, Pennsylvania, Vance took time to tout an aspect of the legislation that allows some workers to deduct tips and overtime pay from their taxable income, as well as the billions allocated to Republicans immigration agenda. Syked out: During a visit to a Canton steel mill on Monday to tout the Big, Beautiful, Bill, tax bill that Republicans jammed through Congress, Vice President JD Vance spent several minutes bashing the Democratic U.S. Representative in whose district the mill is located: Akrons Emilia Sykes. While Vance said she wasnt there because shes not celebrating the legislation, Sykes told Sabrina Eaton she wasnt invited to the event, and believes Republicans decided to hold it in her district because Im in a seat that the Republicans have been very angry that they have not been able to win, even though they drew it for a Republican to be in. Global war on censorship: After years of investigating U.S. tech platform practices that he says censor conservatives, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan is taking his free speech crusade global, targeting European regulations he claims are silencing conservatives worldwide, Eaton reports. Jordan traveled to Europe this week, where he led a bipartisan group of U.S. Congress members to discuss free speech issues with European Union officials including Henna Virkkunen, the EUs executive vice president for technological sovereignty, security, and democracy. Construction ahead: The Ohio Controlling Board recently approved Cuyahoga Community Colleges request to spend $585,000 to remodel a facility in Warrensville Heights that provides people and companies with corporate training and programs to expand peoples knowledge base. The construction is expected to finish by next June, Laura Hancock reports. New jobs just dropped: Home improvement company Great Day Improvements will expand operations in Ohio, creating 995 new jobs over the next five years, state officials announced Monday, McGowan writes. The direct-to-consumer provider and manufacturer will create 412 jobs in the Greater Cleveland area. Theyre running: Two more Ohioans have filed paperwork to run for Congress in the last few days. One is Rosemary Oglesby-Henry, the founder of a nonprofit that helps teen parents, who became the second Republican to enter the race for Democratic U.S. Rep. Greg Landsmans Cincinnati-area seat. The second is Don Leonard, a professor with Ohio State Universitys architecture school, who filed to run against Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Carey in Ohios 15th Congressional District. 2028 odds: Vance may have the edge over top Democrats in a hypothetical 2028 matchup, according to a new national poll, NJ.com reports. The latest Emerson College poll asked voters about possible matchups between Vance and potential Democratic contenders in the 2028 presidential election. The poll found Vance had a slight advantage over three possible rivals, including former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and California Gov. Gavin Newsom. Buckeyes buckle to Trump: The president of Ohio State University on Sunday vowed to hire staff from across the political spectrum as the Trump Administration continues cracking down on universities across the nation, Politico reports. Speaking to CBS Margaret Brennan, Ted Carter said his staff has heard concerns about the political cultures on university campuses, including worries of indoctrination. Carters comments come shortly after the Trump administration announced the school of which Vance is an alum is one of 60 universities it has deemed may have antisemitic practices and policies on campus. Im confident that as this plays out forward, that were going to be just fine, said Carter. X-ed out: Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Actons X account was suspended for several hours on Sunday. Campaign manager Philip Stein said in a statement that no reason was given for the suspension, which was lifted Sunday night. But Stein also suggested it was because Acton called on the Trump administration to release the Jeffrey Epstein files and said Ramaswamy should do the same. Shortly before Actons account suspension was lifted, Ramaswamy posted on X asking the company and its owner, his former DOGE co-chair Elon Musk, for her account to be restored. The Plain Dealer/cleveland.com has reached out to X for comment. No experience necessary: Jessie Balmert of the Cincinnati Enquirer takes a look at Ramaswamys rise to the top of the Ohio Republican governors race, and how it reflects how having prior elected experience in Ohio politics has gone from being a prerequisite to a potential liability. If he plays his cards right, he benefits from the generally positive feeling that voters have about (Gov.) Mike DeWine, then he also gets all the pluses from people who are looking for a change, said Curt Steiner, a GOP strategist and ex-DeWine campaign manager, to Balmert. Full Disclosure Five things we learned from the May 9, 2025 ethics disclosure form filed by state Sen. Kyle Koehler, a Springfield Republican, about his 2024 finances. 1. Koehler, who was not in the legislature last year, reported earning more than $100,000 as vice president of K.K. Tool Company. He also received somewhere between $10,000 and $24,999 in rent from a single-family home he owns outside Springfield, as well as somewhere between $1,000 and $9,999 in investment dividends and interest from Fidelity. 2. His investments include private stock in K.K. Tool Company, several Fidelity mutual funds, certificates of deposit with eight different banks, and retirement accounts with Fidelity, Columbia, and the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System. 3. He neither owed nor was owed more than $1,000 at any point in 2024. 4. Ohio State University gave Koehler an unspecified gift worth more than $25 last year. 5. Koehlers full legal name is Jerome Kyle Koehler. On The Move State Rep. Phil Plummer, whos running for Ohio Senate District 5 next year, has been endorsed by U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan, a Champaign County Republican. Sam Streicher has been promoted by the Ohio Restaurant & Hospitality Alliance to senior manager of membership operations. Streicher previously served as the restaurant trade groups membership growth and retention manager. Bryan Hambley, a Democratic candidate for Ohio secretary of state, has been endorsed by Ohio Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio, Hamilton County Commissioner Denise Driehaus, Hamilton County Clerk of Courts Pavan Parikh, and Dr. Lauren Beene, co-founder of the pro-abortion rights group Ohio Physicians for Reproductive Rights. Birthdays William Schwartz, Pappas & Associates lobbyist Thomas Corwin, Ohios 15th governor (1794-1865) Straight from the Source Im busier than a popcorn kernel on a hot skillet right now. - Beth Blackmarr from Citizens for Property Tax Reform talking about how busy she is gathering signatures for a constitutional amendment that would abolish property taxes in Ohio. The group is hoping to put the issue before voters in November 2026. Capitol Letter is a daily briefing providing succinct, timely information for those who care deeply about the decisions made by state government. Subscribe to get Capitol Letter in your email box each weekday for free. Aer Lingus' flight between Cleveland and Dublin is one of the routes featured in a new marketing campaign launched by Cleveland Hopkins airport. CLEVELAND, Ohio Cleveland Hopkins International Airport has launched a new marketing campaign that aims to increase passenger numbers by promoting the facilitys convenience and flight offerings. The move comes as the Akron-Canton Airport increases its market share in Northeast Ohio, with expanded routes from Breeze and Allegiant airlines. Read more: Passenger traffic jumps more than 20% at Akron-Canton Airport Clevelands new campaign dubbed The Choice is CLEar promotes Hopkins 126 daily departures and 40 nonstop destinations. One video, for example, promotes the airports nonstop route from Cleveland to Dublin, Ireland, on Aer Lingus. Others feature flights to Toronto and Seattle. CLE is the premiere airport for all of Northeast Ohio, thanks to unmatched convenience, easy access and accessibility, and a wide range of airlines and destinations. said Megan OConnell, assistant director of marketing, communications and guest experience. According to the airport, more than 70 percent of Northeast Ohio travelers fly through Cleveland Hopkins. The campaign aims to increase that percentage by drawing local travelers who currently drive to Akron-Canton, Detroit or Pittsburgh for flights. We want travelers in Northeast Ohio to see CLE as their airport of choice, said airport spokeswoman Michele Dynia. We know they have other options in the region and this campaign is meant to clearly demonstrate why we are the smart choice to fulfill their travel plans. The campaign will run throughout Northeast Ohio in print, on social media, television, streaming and other platforms. Dynia said the campaign did not have a specific budget amount because costs can shift depending on timing, audience engagement, and platform performance. That said, we expect the overall investment to land in the five-figure range. In 2024, Cleveland Hopkins welcomed 10.17 million passengers the most since 2008, when Continental Airlines operated a hub at the airport. The airport is the largest in Ohio and the 47th busiest airport in the country. Up until a few months ago, the drive from Beirut's international airport through the Lebanese capital city's southern suburbs used to feature a stream of pro-Iranian and Hezbollah-themed propaganda. Hassan Nasrallah, the charismatic former leader of the Iran-backed group who was killed in Beirut last year, stared down at you from billboards while you drove along Imam Khomeini Road, named after the late founder of Iran's Islamic Republic. Images of Hezbollah leaders were interspersed with dramatic murals of fallen Iranian spy commander Qasem Soleimani. Now many of those images have been replaced with western and local brands. In June dozens of those billboards along the highway instead featured Formula One racecar driver Lewis Hamilton advertising shaving products. Many of the new posters also feature patriotic, unifying messages that replaced the formerly sectarian signage an attempt by Lebanon's new Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to encourage "A New Era for Lebanon," just in time for the summer tourism boom the Mediterranean country is hoping for after months of war. In this "new" Lebanon, Hezbollah is being forced to operate in the shadows more than ever in the group's over 40-year history. The Iranian proxy, which controls several parts of Lebanon as a sub-state group and is designated a terrorist organization by Washington, has always looked for creative ways to evade U.S. sanctions. But since Israel's aggressive assault its most deadly since the 2006 war Hezbollah's leadership and financial infrastructure have been left in tatters. "Hezbollah finds itself in its greatest predicament since its foundation. The Israeli war against Lebanon greatly hit the party and its infrastructures, assassinating the party's senior military and political leaders including Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah," Joseph Daher, author of "Hezbollah: The Political Economy of Lebanon's Party of God," told CNBC. "The regions majorly inhabited by the Shia population have been greatly targeted, destroying extensively civilian housing and infrastructures as well," he said. The group, whose political wing also holds seats in parliament, still wields significant political power in Lebanon, which last held parliamentary elections in 2022. Despite losing the most significant number of seats in the group's political history, it still held tight to a 62-seat coalition in the 128-member parliament. While Hezbollah "will not disappear because it has a strong, disciplined and organized political and militant structure, and benefits from the continued assistance of Iran," the group "has become increasingly politically and socially isolated outside Lebanon's Shia population," Daher said. Outside the banking system While Hezbollah receives much of its funding from Iran, it has also developed extensive international financial networks to bring in revenue. The group makes money from traditional industries like banking and construction, but it also runs smuggling, money laundering and international drug trafficking operations around the Middle East and as far afield as Bulgaria and Argentina. Its revenues are estimated in the billions of dollars annually. Hezbollah's parallel governance strategy, operating as both a political party and sub-state group, has enabled it to survive and grow as an armed group for decades. When Lebanese depositors were locked out of their savings in 2019 after a financial meltdown crippled the country and its currency, Hezbollah remained able to fund its base and illicit activities. It operated cash-only businesses and ran black market U.S. dollar exchanges. This strategy will continue despite pressure on their finances, regional analysts say , due to the extreme difficulty of tracking informal, cash-only transactions. Lebanon's economy "operates more than 60% on cash exchanges, the circulation of which the state cannot trace," Daher said. "It is thanks to the segment of this cash in circulation that Hezbollah smuggles into Lebanon that it finances its activities and pays its employees and helps its popular base, alongside other sources of funding, both licit and illicit." However, the U.S. under President Donald Trump's administration is placing renewed pressure on Lebanon's new government to crack down on Hezbollah's illicit activities. New government crackdowns In an apparent blow to Hezbollah's funding operations, Lebanon's central bank, the Banque Du Liban (BDL), issued a directive banning all financial institutions in the country from any dealings with Al-Qard al-Hasan a Hezbollah-linked financial entity that provides local loans by taking gold and jewelry as collateral. It's a tool by which Hezbollah cements support from the country's Shiite population and gets more funding for its operations. Israel has specifically targeted Al-Qard al-Hasan facilities with airstrikes in the last year. The BDL move was "ingenious," said Matthew Levitt, a senior fellow at The Washington Institute and director of its counterterrorism and intelligence program, because Al-Qard al-Hasan has long been registered as a charity and thus was able to operate outside the Lebanese financial system, evading regulatory oversight. "Here, the BDL appears to have found a way to jump the gap and say, 'whatever you are, people can't provide services for you. You can't bank, and anybody who does is violating the law," Levitt said. Until recently, Hezbollah controlled almost all ports of entry in Lebanon, including the Beirut airport. Following Israel's assault on the group, its airport is now under the control of the Lebanese government, which has fired staff linked to Hezbollah, detained smugglers, and implemented new surveillance technology. And while Tehran is still funding its proxy group, its transport routes to Lebanon are dramatically restricted after losing a key ally with the fall of the Bashar al Assad regime in Syria. Flights coming in from Iran and other locations meant to bring in material support for Hezbollah are being heavily inspected, experts told CNBC. "Cash transfers from abroad have been intercepted at the airport and border. We are talking about millions of dollars," Daher said of the renewed security in the country. 'The window of opportunity is now' Many who want to see Hezbollah's power dismantled say the time is now. "When you now have Iran under tremendous stress, and Lebanon overtly trying to crack down on Hezbollah's ability to function as an independent militia and trying to target the funding it needs to be able to do that you have an interesting opportunity," Levitt, who also served as deputy assistant secretary for intelligence and analysis at the U.S. Treasury Department, told CNBC in an interview. For the first time in decades, both the prime minister and president of Lebanon are interested in asserting monopoly over the use of force in the country, he added. "They're interested in securing the much, much needed international aid that Lebanon needs to get out of the economic crisis, and they're interested in not saying no to the Trump administration." But it's not that easy. The group, long described as the most powerful non-state organization in the Middle East, is still loyally followed by hundreds of thousands of people who rely on it for social services and ideological leadership and it remains well-armed. Notably, no one is officially demanding Hezbollah disband or cease to exist entirely. Trump's envoy to the region Tom Barrack recently demanded Hezbollah lay down its weapons, a proposition the group has rejected . "Hezbollah's not going to disarm because you ask them nicely," Levitt said. "But we have to enable the government of Lebanon to do this, give them the capability to do it, and have their back when they do it." That requires a combination of carrots and sticks, former U.S. officials say ironically, tools that have in many cases been weakened by the shrinking of U.S. government resources under the Trump administration. Alex Zerden, principal at Washington-based risk advisory firm Capitol Peak Strategies who formerly served at the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, outlined some of those potential approaches. "On the offensive side, the U.S. can and will likely continue to target Hezbollah financial networks inside and outside of Lebanon. The U.S. will seek to deny Hezbollah access to Syria, including lucrative reconstruction contracts," Zerden said. "On the incentive side, direct tools are more limited with reductions in diplomacy and development capabilities," he noted one example of that being the gutting of USAID, which served as a powerful diplomatic vehicle. "However," he added, "there appears to be space for the U.S. to support economic reforms." For Ronnie Chatah, a Lebanese political analyst and host of The Beirut Banyan podcast , what's truly needed is international pressure that would push Iran to relinquish its involvement in Lebanon. "What has not yet shifted in Lebanon's favor is the international aspect, meaning finding a way for Iran to abandon Lebanon that I think can only happen by strategic diplomacy," said Chatah, whose father, a former Lebanese finance minister, was killed in a suspected Hezbollah assassination plot. "If the Trump administration wants peace the way it says repeatedly, if Donald Trump wants the Nobel Peace Prize too, there has to be some way forward for Lebanon to take the spotlight and to find a peaceful resolution that in some ways satisfies Iran's terms," he told CNBC from Beirut. What's been done so far by both the U.S. and Lebanese governments is important, but will not ultimately break Hezbollah's power in the country, Chatah warned. "The window of opportunity is now. It's not tomorrow, and unfortunately, it's a closing window," he said. "The intent is not enough. Whether it's by the Trump administration or even whether it's by the Lebanese president, the intention is not enough." After Whirlpool slashed its dividend postmarket Monday, investors are on high alert for other companies that could follow suit. CNBC Pro has some names to keep an eye on. The Michigan-based appliance maker expects to cut its annual payout to $3.60 per share from $7. Whirlpool also posted a disappointing second-quarter earnings report, which sent shares plunging as much as 14% Tuesday. Whirlpool's move can raise concern that some companies will need to pull back shareholder dividends as macroeconomic uncertainty and tariffs weigh on their business. Given that, CNBC Pro screened the companies in the S & P 1500 index to try and find those with potentially troubling financial profiles. First, we looked for those companies with dividend yields above 6%. Then, we further screened for those companies that are expected to see free cash flow decline this year and that have debt-to-equity ratios above 100%. The dividend coverage ratio also had to be below Whirlpool's 2.1. Here are the five stocks we turned up: One of the stocks on the list, United Parcel Service , reported earnings on Tuesday. The Atlanta-based shipper confirmed that it expects to pay out about $5.5 billion in dividends for the full year, though UPS said it would not give guidance for revenue and operating profit due to macroeconomic uncertainty. UPS shares fell nearly 9% Tuesday, bringing its year-to-date decline to more than 26%. Despite that, Wall Street is optimistic: The average analyst polled by LSEG has a buy rating and sees shares rebounding about 21%. Wendy's , which is expected to report earnings next month, also appeared on the screen. The fast-food chain's shares have tumbled about 37% in 2025, reaching a 52-week low on Tuesday. The majority of analysts have a hold rating, although the average price target suggests shares can rally nearly 29% over the next year, according to LSEG. Packages of Peanut M&M's chocolate candy are displayed at a Costco Wholesale store on April 27, 2025 in San Diego, California. Candy and snacks giant Mars on Tuesday announced plans to invest $2 billion more in its U.S. operations through next year to bolster the company's ongoing efforts to expand manufacturing in the country. The Twix and Milky Way chocolate maker has already invested more than $6 billion in U.S. manufacturing in the last five years and the new funding will support a $240 million facility for Nature's Bakery in Salt Lake City, Utah. The new facility, opening on Wednesday, will create over 230 new jobs in the region and have the capacity to produce about one billion candy bars every year, Mars said. "The U.S. is our biggest and most important market, and a key engine of growth for the long term not only through our legacy manufacturing footprint but also through the expansion of strategic acquisitions like Nature's Bakery, which is already scaling quickly," said Mars CFO Claus Aagaard. Many companies are doubling down on their U.S. production capabilities after the Trump administration imposed sweeping import tariffs aimed at narrowing the trade deficit and prompting multinational firms to bring manufacturing back to America. About 94% of Mars products sold in the U.S. are produced locally. The company announced a $36 billion deal to buy Pringles maker Kellanova in August, and has received approval from U.S. antitrust regulators while EU counterparts opened a full-scale investigation last month. China rolled out on Monday an annual childcare subsidy of 3,600 yuan (about $500) until age three, as authorities look to spur a flagging birth rate with fewer young people choosing to have children. The high cost of childcare and education, as well as job uncertainty and a slowing economy, are among the concerns that have discouraged many young Chinese from getting married and starting a family. Subsidies will start from this year, with partial subsidies for children under three born prior to 2025, in a policy expected to benefit more than 20 million families of toddlers and infants, the official Xinhua news agency said. The plan is an "important national livelihood policy," and direct cash subsidies would help "reduce the cost of family childbirth and parenting", the National Health Commission said. Demographers and economists said while the move was positive, the amount was likely to small to incentivise people to have children. China's population fell for a third consecutive year in 2024, with experts warning of a worsening downturn, after decades of falling birth rates following a one-child policy adopted from 1980 to 2015, coupled with rapid urbanisation. In the past two years, provinces nationwide have started handing out childcare subsidies in amounts that vary considerably, from 1,000 yuan a child to up to 100,000 yuan, including housing subsidies. The central government will fund the new national policy instead of local authorities, Xinhua said. Authorities are expected to announce more details on Wednesday. Zichun Huang, China Economist at Capital Economics, said the sums involved were too small to have a near-term impact on the birth rate or consumption. "But the policy does mark a major milestone in terms of direct handouts to households and could lay the groundwork for more fiscal transfers in future." Citi Research estimates a total lump-sum payout of 117 billion yuan in the second half of this year through the plan, saying the scheme is more meaningful as a consumption policy than as a population policy. "As a population policy, it remains to be seen whether the national program can move the needle on fertility rate," the research house said in a note. Authorities in China unfurled a series of "fertility-friendly" measures in 2024 to tackle the coming decade's challenge of the entry into retirement of roughly 300 million people, equivalent to almost the entire U.S. population. A nationwide scheme may offer some coordination and signal greater central commitment, said demographer Emma Zang, a professor at Yale University, but called for greater efforts. "Without sustained structural investment in areas like affordable childcare, parental leave, and job protections for women, the effect on fertility is likely to remain minimal," she added. Stock markets in the U.S. and Europe didn't seem that delighted with the U.S.-European Union trade deal reached over the weekend. The S&P 500 ticked up, but by the barest margin, while the Stoxx Europe 600 fell. Both indexes were trading higher during their respective sessions but had given up those gains as the day ended. For those on the continent, perhaps there was a dawning realization that the agreement wasn't too much in their favor. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he would have welcomed further easing of trade, while France's minister for Europe, Benjamin Haddad, said the deal was "unbalanced," according to a Google translation. With U.S. President Donald Trump announcing Monday that he would probably impose a blanket tariff of between 15% and 20% on countries without trade agreements, it's starting to seem like most duties will settle around that level eventually, easing some uncertainty. What's more, economists appear to be revising downward their expectations of the impact tariffs will have on the U.S. economy so any deals in the future might not trigger rallies, or strong ones at least, on Wall Street. Tariff considerations, then, are on the backburner for now. Investors can turn their attention to Magnificent Seven earnings and data on the U.S. economy coming out the next few days. If all goes well, they might give markets the cheer that was missing on Monday. Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on July 28, 2025 in New York City. Stock markets in the U.S. and Europe didn't seem that delighted with the U.S.-European Union trade deal reached over the weekend. The S&P 500 ticked up, but by the barest margin, while the Stoxx Europe 600 fell. Both indexes were trading higher during their respective sessions but had given up those gains as the day ended. For those on the continent, perhaps there was a dawning realization that the agreement wasn't too much in their favor. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and France's minister for Europe, Benjamin Haddad, expressed a desire for more open trade. With U.S. President Donald Trump announcing Monday that he would probably impose a blanket tariff of between 15% and 20% on countries without trade agreements, it's starting to seem like most duties will settle around that level eventually, easing some uncertainty. What's more, economists appear to be revising downward their expectations of the impact tariffs will have on the U.S. economy so any deals in the future might not trigger rallies, or strong ones at least, on Wall Street. Tariff considerations, then, are on the backburner for now. Investors can turn their attention to Magnificent Seven earnings: Meta Platforms and Microsoft will be releasing results on Wednesday. If all goes well, they might give markets the cheer that was missing on Monday. Smoke stacks from the Hugh L. Spurlock Generating Station are seen in Maysville, Kentucky, on June 12, 2025. The Trump administration is seeking to repeal a landmark finding that greenhouse gas emissions pose a threat to public health, the head of the Environmental Protection Agency said Tuesday. "This has been referred to as basically driving a dagger into the heart of the climate change religion," EPA administrator Lee Zeldin told the conservative "Ruthless Podcast." "Repealing it will be the largest deregulatory action in the history of America," Zeldin said The EPA under the Obama administration issued an endangerment finding in 2009 that carbon dioxide and five other greenhouse gases "threaten the public health and welfare of current and future generations." The finding is the basis for Clean Air Act regulations aimed at combating climate change by limiting vehicle and power plant emissions. The EPA will seek to repeal all greenhouse gas emissions standards on light-, medium- and heavy-duty vehicles that followed the endangerment finding, Zeldin said later Tuesday at a car dealership in Indianapolis, Indiana. The EPA action is part of President Donald Trump's broader effort to expand oil, natural gas and coal production while limiting the expansion of renewable energy and electric vehicles. Trump abandoned U.S. commitments to fight climate change on his first day in office, issuing an order to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Agreement. The International Monetary Fund raised its expectations for the growth of the global economy, according to its latest World Economic Outlook report, published Tuesday. Global growth is expected at 3% in 2025 and 3.1% in 2026, which is an upward revision from its report in April. "What we're seeing is a global economy that's proving a little bit more resilient than what we were expecting back in April," IMF's chief economist, Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, told CNBC. He explained that there are "three main things" behind this resilience. "The first one is that the tariff levels that we are currently facing is lower than what we were expecting back in April. There's been a pause that was announced by the U.S.," Gourinchas said. "There have been a number of trade deals whose details are not fleshed out fully yet, but are pointing towards lower tariff levels than were initially announced back in April, and so that's basically easing the tariff pressure, if you want, and that's helping the global economy," he added. Gourinchas also noted an easing of financial conditions and several countries frontloading exports. Sawdah Bhaimiya Google executives are pushing employees to act with more urgency in their use of artificial intelligence as the company looks for ways to cut costs. That was the message at an all-hands meeting last week, featuring CEO Sundar Pichai and Brian Saluzzo, who runs the teams building the technical foundation for Google's flagship products. "Anytime you go through a period of extraordinary investment, you respond by adding a lot of headcount, right?" Pichai said, according to audio obtained by CNBC. "But in this AI moment, I think we have to accomplish more by taking advantage of this transition to drive higher productivity." In its earnings report last week, Alphabet said it plans to spend $85 billion on capital expenditures in 2025, up from the $75 billion it was targeting earlier in the year. It's a theme that's resonating across technology, where internet giants are racing to build costly data centers to run big AI models and workloads while simultaneously cutting expenses elsewhere. "We are competing with other companies in the world," Pichai said at the meeting. "There will be companies which will become more efficient through this moment in terms of employee productivity, which is why I think it's important to focus on that." In June, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy said the company's corporate workforce will shrink in the coming years as it adopts more generative AI tools and agents. In an email to employees, Jassy wrote that employees should learn how to use AI tools and experiment and figure out "how to get more done with scrappier teams." Every weekday the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer holds a "Morning Meeting" livestream at 10:20 a.m. ET. Here's a recap of Tuesday's key moments. 1. Stocks were slightly lower Tuesday morning, giving up some of the modest gains seen earlier in the session. Even when the S & P 500 was in the green, Jim Cramer called out some "turmoil" underneath the hood of the market, particularly in the health-care sector. The biggest mover to the downside in that cohort is Novo Nordisk , with shares plunging more than 20% after the GLP-1 maker slashed its 2025 sales outlook. The company lowered growth expectations for Wegovy in the obesity market and for Ozempic in the diabetes market. Club holding Eli Lilly is down 4.3% in sympathy. We trimmed our position in the biopharma giant Tuesday to mitigate our risk ahead of Lilly's own earnings report next week. 2. Nvidia hit a 52-week high earlier in Tuesday's session on the back of a Reuters report that said the artificial intelligence leader has placed an order with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. for 300,000 of its made-for-China H20 chips. Earlier this month, the Trump administration reversed a ban imposed in April that prohibited sales of H20 chips to the Chinese market over national security concerns. The new orders with TSMC adds to the existing inventory of 600,000 to 700,000 H20 chips, Reuters reported. Elsewhere, fellow chipmakers Advanced Micro Devices and Club holding Broadcom were solidly higher, as earnings from the likes of Cadence Design Systems cast a positive due on the broader AI trade. 3. Coffee giant Starbucks reports its third quarter of fiscal 2025 after the bell Tuesday. We're hoping to see a boost in same-store sales in the locations where turnaround artist CEO Brian Niccol has rolled out his "Green Apron Service" model, a strategy aimed at enhancing the customer experience. We'd also like to see how the company's labor investments are helping business operations and what the plans for its growth China business. Jim said he's "still not expecting big stuff" this quarter given the company is still in the early stages of the turnaround . Starbucks shares, which have trailed the market this year, were down nearly 1% Tuesday. 4. Stocks covered in Tuesday's rapid fire at the end of the video were: Boeing , United Health , Procter & Gamble , Merck , and Cadence Design Systems. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long LLY, NVDA, SBUX. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED. Merck & Co. signage on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York, US, on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. He added that his confidence in Merck's ability to navigate Keytruda's loss of exclusivity increases with every new product launch, data readout and business deal. Davis said he sees that patent expiration "as more of a hill than a cliff, and I'm confident in our ability to grow over the long-term." "Today, we announced a multiyear optimization initiative that will redirect investment and resources from more mature areas of our business to our burgeoning array of new growth drivers, further enable the transformation of our portfolio, and drive our next chapter of productive, innovation-driven growth," said Merck CEO Rob Davis in prepared remarks for the company's earnings call. Shares of the pharmaceutical giant closed more than 1% lower on Tuesday. The multiyear effort comes as Merck prepares to offset revenue losses from the upcoming patent expiration of its blockbuster cancer drug Keytruda in 2028. It also comes as drugmakers brace for President Donald Trump 's planned tariffs on pharmaceuticals imported into the U.S., which has prompted Merck and other companies to invest billions to boost their manufacturing footprints in the U.S. Merck on Tuesday said it will slash $3 billion in costs by the end of 2027 to be fully reinvested to support new product launches and its drug pipeline. As part of the effort, Merck in July approved a new restructuring program that will eliminate certain administrative, sales, and research and development positions. But the company will continue to hire employees in new roles across growth areas of its business. Merck will also reduce its global real estate footprint and continue to pare back its manufacturing network. Merck expects actions under the restructuring program to generate around $1.7 billion in annual cost savings, most of which will kick in by the end of 2027. The company expects pretax costs related to the restructuring program to be approximately $3 billion in total. For its second quarter, Merck recorded a $649 million charge related to the program. Also on Tuesday, Merck reported second-quarter revenue that came in short of Wall Street estimates. It was the first time that metric had missed expectations since April 2021. While Keytruda sales grew during the period, Merck continued to see trouble with China sales of Gardasil, a vaccine that prevents cancer from HPV, the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S. In February, Merck announced a decision to halt shipments of Gardasil into China beginning that month and going through at least mid-2025. In prepared remarks, CFO Caroline Litchfield said the company will not resume shipments to China through at least the end of 2025, noting that inventories remain high and demand is still soft. The company also narrowed its full-year guidance. Merck now expects its 2025 adjusted earnings to come in between $8.87 and $8.97 per share. That compares with its previous outlook of $8.82 to $8.97 per share. Merck expects revenue for the year to come in between $64.3 billion and $65.3 billion, narrowed on both ends from its previous guidance of $64.1 billion to $65.6 billion. Here's what Merck reported for the second quarter compared with what Wall Street was expecting, based on a survey of analysts by LSEG: Earnings per share: $2.13 adjusted. That figure may not be comparable to estimates of $2.01. $2.13 adjusted. That figure may not be comparable to estimates of $2.01. Revenue: $15.81 billion vs. $15.89 billion expected Merck said its guidance includes the previously announced $200 million estimated impact associated with the tariffs Trump has implemented to date. In April, the company said the expected tariff charge primarily reflects levies between the U.S. and China, but did not account for sector-specific pharmaceutical tariffs. The outlook also includes one-time charges related to the company's license agreements with Hengrui Pharma and LaNova, but not its recently announced acquisition of Verona Pharma. The company posted net income of $4.43 billion, or $1.76 per share, for the quarter. That compares with net income of $5.46 billion, or $2.14 per share, during the year-earlier period. Excluding acquisition and restructuring costs, Merck earned $2.13 per share for the second quarter. That includes a charge of 7 cents per share for closing the license agreement with Hengrui Pharma. Merck raked in $15.81 billion in revenue for the quarter, down 2% from the same period a year ago. Nvidia placed orders for 300,000 H20 chipsets with contract manufacturer TSMC last week, two sources said, with one of them adding that strong Chinese demand had led the U.S. firm to change its mind about just relying on its existing stockpile. The Trump administration this month allowed Nvidia to resume sales of H20 graphics processing units (GPUs) to China, reversing an effective ban imposed in April designed to keep advanced AI chips out of Chinese hands due to national security concerns. Nvidia developed the H20 specifically for the Chinese market after U.S. export restrictions on its other AI chipsets were imposed in late 2023. The H20 does not have as much computing power as Nvidia's H100 or its new Blackwell series sold in markets outside China. The new orders with Taiwan's TMSC would add to existing inventory of 600,000 to 700,000 H20 chips, according to the sources who were not authorized to speak to media and declined to be identified. For comparison purposes, Nvidia sold around 1 million H20 chips in 2024, according to U.S. research firm SemiAnalysis. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said during a trip to Beijing this month that the level of H20 orders it received would determine whether production would begin again, adding that any restart to the supply chain would take nine months. The Information reported after Huang's trip that Nvidia had told customers it had limited H20 stocks available and it had no immediate plans to restart wafer production for the GPU. Nvidia needs to obtain export licenses from the U.S. government to ship the H20 chips. It said in mid-July it had been assured by authorities that it would get them soon. The U.S. Department of Commerce has yet to approve those licenses, one of the sources and a third source said. Nvidia on Monday declined to comment on the new orders or the status of its license applications. TSMC declined to comment. The U.S. Commerce Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Nvidia has asked Chinese companies interested in purchasing Nvidia H20 chips to submit new documentation including order volume forecasts from clients, said one of the sources and a fourth source. The Rebel-Quad is the second-generation product from Rebellions and is made up of four Rebel AI chips. Rebellions, a South Korean firm, is looking to rival companies like Nvidia in AI chips. South Korean artificial intelligence chip startup Rebellions has raised money from tech giant Samsung and is targeting a funding round of up to $200 million ahead of a public listing, the company's management told CNBC on Tuesday. Last year, Rebellions merged with another startup in South Korea called Sapeon, creating a firm that is being positioned as one of the country's promising rivals to Nvidia . Rebellions is currently raising money and is targeting funding of between $150 million and $200 million, Sungkyue Shin, chief financial officer of the startup, told CNBC on Tuesday. Samsung's investment in Rebellions last week was part of that, Shin said, though he declined to say how much the tech giant poured in. Since its founding in 2020, Rebellions has raised $220 million, Shin added. The current funding round is ongoing and Shin said Rebellions is talking to its current investors as well as investors in Korea and globally to participate in the capital raise. Rebellions has some big investors, including South Korean chip giant SK Hynix , telecommunication firms SK Telecom and Korea Telecom, and Saudi Arabian oil giant Aramco. Starbucks is slated to release fiscal third-quarter results after the stock market's closing bell Tuesday, and most analysts are adopting a sentiment somewhere between apprehension and cautious optimism as the coffee giant tries to right the ship. An LSEG survey shows analysts, on average, anticipate that the coffee chain will earn 65 cents per share, or a slump of 30% from a year ago. On the other hand, Starbucks' expected revenue of $9.31 billion could mark year-over-year growth of 2.1%. Starbucks disappointed investors in its fiscal second quarter as adjusted earnings of 41 cents per share on revenue of $8.76 billion missed expectations. Also, a key metric, global same-store sales, fell 1%. At its U.S. cafes, same-store sales slipped 2%. Same-store sales, or comps, measure sales performance at locations open at least a year. Since the start of 2025, Starbucks shares have climbed 1.8%, compared with the S & P 500's year-to-date gain of 8.4%. SBUX YTD mountain SBUX YTD chart Slumping sales have plagued Starbucks, but CEO Brian Niccol who took the helm at the coffee chain last September has promised investors his turnaround strategy will win back customers and lift employee morale. In last quarter's earnings call, Niccol said earnings per share wasn't a metric that could be used to measure the success of its efforts at this stage. "Our financial results don't yet reflect our progress, but we have real momentum with our 'Back to Starbucks' plan," Niccol said in a separate video posted on the company's website. "We're testing and learning at speed and we're seeing changes in our coffeehouses." Analysts are also closely tracking speculation that Starbucks is considering selling its China operations as a potential catalyst for the stock. The company is still deciding whether to sell a controlling or minority stake and if it will keep any parts such as its supply chain, Reuters reported, citing sources with knowledge of the situation. Heading into earnings, many on Wall Street remain apprehensive of the stock and are waiting for more proof. According to LSEG, 17 analysts covering Starbucks have rated it a strong buy or buy, while 18 analysts have assigned it a hold rating and four have rated it an underperform or sell. Here's what analysts at some of Wall Street's biggest banks are saying before Starbucks' latest earnings report. Jefferies: Underperform rating and $76 price target Jefferies downgraded shares of Starbucks from a hold rating to underperform earlier this month. The firm's price target implies the risk of 19% downside ahead, based on Starbucks' Monday closing price of $93.67 per share. "Downgrading to Underperform w/ a $76 PT and below-Street estimates near-term as we think the stock has surpassed reasonable expectations for improving fundamentals, in our view. Credit/debit card data, as well as foot traffic and app data, suggest downside to the Cons F3Q and F4Q US comp ests, as complex people and ops issues could take a longer time than expected for mgmt make progress on, as well as significant investments weighing on earnings." Morgan Stanley: Overweight rating and $95 price target Analyst Brian Harbour's target would equate to an upside of 1% for the stock. "Given how well the stock has done since last earnings, we wouldn't say the setup is particularly compelling, or that anything is underappreciated, for a quarter where U.S. sales are probably in line, maybe slightly better, but we'd assume EPS still tough. We are short of St and mark down forward estimates here, mainly trying to build in further labor investment." Bernstein: Outperform rating and $100 price target The firm's projection of where the stock should trade is almost 7% above its current price. "We believe that Starbucks' China business is likely worth $5-7B if Starbucks continues to directly manage the business. However, media reports have suggested bids above a $10B valuation, which we expect to be driven either by a local partner that focuses on higher margins, or by one with greater appetite for unit growth (even at lower margin). We believe that the $10B proceeds could be a further unlock to the stock, as they could be reinvested in the business to accelerate the turnaround. We believe that the sale of a majority stake in the China business is a potential catalyst for stock re-acceleration." Stifel: Buy rating and $105 price target Analyst Chris O'Cull upped his price target to $105 from $92 earlier this month. This new forecast is 12% above Starbucks' Monday closing price. "With several reports indicating the company is in active talks with potential buyers of a stake in China, we suspect management will provide an update on the company's progress in identifying potential partners and its assessment of the core strategic challenges in the market. Overall, we remain focused on the U.S. turnaround progress, viewing it as the primary catalyst for share appreciation over the next 12 months. However, securing a strategic partner with a strong track record in China could be well received by investors, as it should enhance Starbucks' ability to gain share in a growing market." Deutsche Bank: Buy rating and $107 price target In a note from earlier this month, the bank lifted its price target to $107 from $105. This is roughly 14% above where shares of Starbucks closed on Monday. "We believe buy-side expectations for the labor investments are slightly higher than our estimates, but generally in the range, while expectations for benefits to top-line seem more subdued. We think SBUX is approaching an inflection point to return to positive SSS, and we believe the combination of the labor investments and relevant menu innovation (including protein) could be powerful initiatives to drive upside to SSS, which is the key catalyst for the stock." CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report. Consumers walk in front of a Starbucks coffee shop in Galeria Krakowska shopping mall in central Krakow, Poland, on July 11, 2025. Here's what the company reported for the quarter that ended June 29 compared with what Wall Street was expecting, based on a survey of analysts by LSEG: "While our financial results don't yet reflect all the progress we've made, the signs are clear we're gaining momentum," Niccol said in a prerecorded video published with the earnings report. CEO Brian Niccol said in a statement that the company's comeback is ahead of schedule, based on his past experience, which includes turning around Chipotle Mexican Grill after a series of food-safety scandals. Starbucks on Tuesday reported its sixth straight quarter of same-store sales declines as the company implements a turnaround strategy. Starbucks reported fiscal third-quarter net income attributable to the company of $558.3 million, or 49 cents per share, down from $1.05 billion, or 93 cents per share, a year earlier. Excluding restructuring costs and other items, the company earned 50 cents per share. A discrete tax item and a one-time investment hosting the company's three-day event for U.S. store managers weighed on the company's earnings per share by 11 cents. Net sales rose 4% to $9.5 billion. But global same-store sales declined 2%, a steeper drop than estimates of a 1.3% decrease, according to StreetAccount estimates. However, Starbucks' North American cafes performed better than expected. The chain's North American same-store sales fell 2%, a smaller decline than the 2.5% projected by Wall Street, according to StreetAccount. Transactions fell 3%, but average ticket rose 1% in the quarter. "In the U.S., partner engagement is rising, customer connection scores are up, shift completion is at a record high, non-Starbucks Reward customer transactions returned to growth, and more coffeehouses are delivering positive transaction comps," Niccol said in the video. On the company's conference call, he told analysts that the company's licensed stores on college campuses saw same-store sales increase, showing that younger consumers are reconnecting with the brand. To bring back customers, Starbucks is doubling down on hospitality. The chain is rolling out its "Green Apron Service" program, which emphasizes customer interactions. Executives have said that the program tested successfully, leading the company to accelerate its rollout. The chain is also building fewer new U.S. locations, instead focusing on improving its current cafes. In recent years, Starbucks had removed seats from many of its cafes, citing the shift to mobile ordering and drive-thru transactions. But Niccol wants to replace thousands of removed seats as part of a broader effort to make its cafes comfortable again. In China, the company's second-largest market, Starbucks reported same-store sales growth of 2% for the quarter. Transactions climbed 6%, but average ticket fell. Starbucks has cut prices for its drinks in China to compete better with lower-priced rivals, such as Luckin Coffee. This quarter marked the first time in a year and a half that the company's China business saw its same-store sales increase. Under pressure from increased competition, a weaker economy and the distraction of the struggling U.S. business, Starbucks has been weighing selling a stake in its China business, which overall could be valued at up to $10 billion, CNBC has previously reported. "We've received significant interest from more than 20 interested parties, and we're evaluating options," Niccol told analysts. "We remain committed to our China business and want to retain a meaningful stake." Heading into the final quarter of the company's fiscal year, Chief Financial Officer Cathy Smith said the company is "conservative" on how Starbucks' results will look in the fiscal fourth quarter compared with the year-ago period. She cited an uncertain consumer environment, although she also noted the company's excitement about its coming innovation and the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte. Over the next year, Starbucks plans to invest $500 million in labor, including the rollout of the "Green Apron Service" program, according to Smith. Starbucks yanked its full-year forecast in October, shortly after Niccol took the reins of the company and months before Smith joined. Looking ahead to fiscal 2026, Starbucks has big plans. Niccol said the chain will launch protein cold foam, improved artisanal food options, coconut-water based drinks, a new Starbucks app and a "refreshed" Rewards program. The company plans to host an investor day in the fiscal second quarter of 2026. Keir Starmer, UK prime minister, left, and US President Donald Trump, ahead of their meeting at the Trump Turnberry golf course in Turnberry, Scotland, on Monday, July 28, 2025. Tolga Akmen/EPA/Bloomberg via Getty Images As world leaders and economists across Europe digest the news of the EU-U.S. trade agreement, some experts told CNBC that while it may be bad news for the bloc, the deal could serve as an unexpected boost to the U.K. The European Union is facing a higher 15% tariff rate on its goods imported to the U.S. compared to the 10% levy the U.K. has agreed to. "In theory, the UK benefits," Philip Shaw, chief economist at Investec, told CNBC. "The new EU tariff of 15% means that UK exports to the US have become relatively cheaper, which could boost British trade with the US as American firms buy goods from Britain rather than the EU," he explained. U.K. goods would also be cheaper for U.S. consumers due to the lower tariff rate, meaning they may favor British products over those manufactured in the EU, Alex Altmann, partner and head of Lubbock Fine LLP's German desk, suggested in a note published shortly after the EU-U.S. deal was announced. "The UK's lower US tariffs do offer a major incentive for EU companies to shift some of their manufacturing bases to the UK or to expand their existing UK facilities," he added. EU-based manufacturers with low profit margins in particular could find the idea of moving to the U.K. attractive to avoid a further squeeze on those margins, Altmann explained, noting that the U.K. has spare manufacturing capacity due to Brexit. "The UK could be a big indirect winner of this agreement," Altmann added. But the benefits to the U.K. are not only linked to the country's lower tariff rate. Indeed, the EU managing to secure a 15% levy, which is far lower compared to the 30% the bloc was threatened with by U.S. President Donald Trump, could also be a positive for the U.K. according to Investec's Shaw. "The EU has escaped from a possible major downturn from a more onerous (i.e. 30%) tariff regime and possibly a series of retaliatory measures between the two trading blocs. Here the UK benefits from its major trading partner averting a recession which could have resulted in a decline in UK exports to the EU," he said in written comments. How likely is the boost to the U.K. to materialize? The EU-U.S. reaching an agreement has also hampered the potential impact, Beth McCall, an international trade lawyer at Dentons told CNBC. "If the US had proceeded with 30% tariffs against most EU goods, UK goods with a 10% tariff, which is paid by the US importer in most circumstances, could have appeared significantly more attractive," she said. McCall noted that the expected difference in the baseline tariff rate, which amounts to just 5%, may still make some U.K. goods more attractive. However, she noted, "this will take time to be seen as existing contracts come to an end and US importers search for imports from countries carrying a lower tariff." watch now A potential extension of a tariff pause between the United States and China will not be agreed to until President Donald Trump signs off on the plan, U.S. negotiators said Tuesday. Trump "has final say on all the trade deals" and the pending tariff truce, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC's Eamon Javers. The remarks came after top trade officials for the two countries concluded talks in Stockholm, Sweden, their third round of high-level discussions since May. "We're going to head back to Washington, D.C. We're going to talk to the president about whether that's something that he wants so do," U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told reporters following the talks. Trump, speaking to reporters on Air Force One around the same time, said he would get a briefing Wednesday on the status of the negotiations. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer speaks next to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during a press conference at government quarters Rosenbad after the trade talks between the U.S. and China concluded, in Stockholm, Sweden, July 29, 2025. Magnus Lejhall/tt | Via Reuters "I just had a phone call from Scott Bessent. They had a very good meeting with China, and it seems that they're going to brief me tomorrow," Trump said. "We'll either approve it or not. But he felt very good about the meeting, better than he felt that he felt yesterday," he said. Chinese trade negotiator Li Chenggang earlier said that the two sides agreed to continue to push for an extension of a 90-day pause on most of the U.S. "reciprocal" tariffs on Chinese goods, as well as most of Beijing's retaliatory measures. That pause is currently set to expire Aug. 12. Bessent told reporters after Tuesday's talks that if an extension is not reached by the deadline, then U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods will shoot back up to their April levels. "We call it boomeranging," Bessent said. He said the trade teams will likely meet again in another 90 days. Trump on April 2 said he would impose a 34% blanket duty on Chinese goods as part of the sweeping global tariff rollout that he dubbed "liberation day." A week later, he said he would hike the China tariffs to 125% and that came on top of 20% fentanyl-related tariffs that Trump had previously imposed. China retaliated with its own steep tariffs on U.S. goods. Both sides agreed to pause most of the tariffs in May, after their first trade meeting in Geneva, Switzerland. Bessent gave a positive, but opaque, assessment of the latest talks. He said the two sides' positions are getting more "refined" and suggested that their discussions have led to an increase in mutual respect and understanding. But he said that the U.S. is not pleased with China continuing to buy oil from Iran even though Trump gave Beijing his blessing to do so last month. watch now U.S. President Donald Trump looks on, during a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (not pictured), after an announcement of a trade deal between the U.S. and EU, in Turnberry, Scotland, Britain, July 27, 2025. President Donald Trump's massive energy deal with the European Union will be difficult to implement, setting Washington and Brussels up for a potential future confrontation over tariffs and trade. The EU has agreed to purchase $750 billion of U.S. energy and invest $600 billion in the U.S. by 2028, according to the White House. In exchange, Trump has agreed to a tariff of 15% on EU goods excluding steel and aluminum, which is half the 30% rate that he had threatened. But the $600 billion investment in the U.S. is not binding on EU member states or companies. The European Commission, the bloc's executive body, simply said that companies "have expressed interest in investing at least" that amount in the U.S by 2029. The massive energy purchases in the deal are unrealistic due to market and political constraints, analysts said. The EU cannot force member states and companies to buy U.S. energy just as the Trump administration cannot force producers to sell to Europe, said Mathieu Utting, an analyst at Rystad Energy. "This is non-binding. It's a pledge," said Erik Brattberg, an expert on Europe at the Atlantic Council, a think-tank with a focus on international affairs. "The EU itself doesn't buy energy. It would be member states or companies from member states." A White House official told CNBC on Tuesday that Trump expects the EU to abide by its commitments under the deal. "That is what the EU agreed to purchase," the official said. "The President reserves the right to adjust tariff rates if any party reneges." The energy purchases are divided into $250 billion annual installments over the rest of Trump's term, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told reporters Sunday. The EU is pledging significant purchases U.S. oil, liquified natural gas (LNG) and nuclear fuel to replace Russian fossil fuels, von der Leyen said. But it is unclear how much EU member states and companies intend to buy of each fuel type. "Details have to be sorted out and that will happen over the next weeks," von der Leyen told reporters. Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers a statement inside No. 10 Downing Street on the day the cabinet was recalled to discuss the situation in Gaza, in London, Britain, July 29, 2025. Britain said on Tuesday it would recognize a Palestinian state unless Israel takes steps to relieve suffering in Gaza, where starvation is spreading, and reaches a ceasefire in the nearly two-year war with Hamas. The warning came after a hunger monitor said a worst-case scenario of famine is unfolding and immediate action is needed to avoid widespread death. Palestinian authorities said more than 60,000 Palestinians were now confirmed killed by Israel's air and ground assault on the Gaza Strip. The hunger alert and the new death toll are grim milestones in a conflict that began almost two years ago when Hamas attacked Israel, sparking an offensive that has flattened much of the enclave and ignited hostilities across the Middle East. The alert by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) raised the prospect that the man-made starvation crisis in Gaza could be formally classified as a famine, in the hope that this might raise the pressure on Israel to let in far more food. Britain's warning heightens pressure on Israel amid an international outcry over its conduct of the war. France announced it would recognise Palestinian statehood last week in a move that enraged the Israeli government. Israel dismissed Britain's announcement as a "reward" for Hamas. Prime Minister Keir Starmer told his cabinet on Tuesday that Britain would follow suit at the United Nations General Assembly in September "unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, reaches a ceasefire, makes clear there will be no annexation in the West Bank, and commits to a long-term peace process that delivers a two-state solution," his government said. The move, if carried through, would be mostly symbolic, with Israel occupying the territories where the Palestinians have long aimed to establish that state in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip with East Jerusalem as its capital. It makes Israel appear more isolated on the international stage as a growing number of countries call for it to allow unfettered aid into Gaza, where it controls all entry and exit points to the besieged coastal territory. However, U.S. President Donald Trump's administration - Israel's closest and most influential ally - has made clear it has no intention of joining others in recognising Palestinian statehood anytime soon. Since returning to office in January, Trump has left it unclear whether he would support an eventual Palestinian state. Trump said on Tuesday he and Starmer did not discuss Britain's proposal to recognise a Palestinian state when the two held talks in Scotland over the weekend. Trump told reporters at the time he did "not mind" if Britain did so. Evidence of starvation, malnutrition, disease With the international furor over Gaza's ordeal growing, Israel announced steps over the weekend to ease aid access. But the U.N. World Food Programme said on Tuesday it was not getting the permissions it needed to deliver enough aid since Israel began humanitarian pauses in warfare on Sunday. "Mounting evidence shows that widespread starvation, malnutrition and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths," the IPC said, adding that "famine thresholds" have been reached for food consumption in most of Gaza. It said it would quickly carry out the formal analysis that could allow it to classify Gaza as "in famine". Gaza health authorities have been reporting more and more people dying from hunger-related causes. The total stands at 147, among them 88 children, most of whom died in the last few weeks. Images of emaciated Palestinian children have shocked the world, with Israel's strongest ally Trump declaring that many people were starving. He promised to set up new "food centres". Israel has denied pursuing a policy of starvation. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday that the situation in Gaza was "tough" but there were lies about starvation there. Deadliest conflict The Gazan casualty figures, which are often cited by the U.N. and have previously been described as reliable by the World Health Organisation, underline the war as the deadliest involving Israel since its establishment in 1948. Israel launched its offensive in response to Hamas' cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, when militants killed some 1,200 people and took another 251 hostage - Israel's deadliest ever day. Since Israel launched ground operations in Gaza in October 2023, 454 soldiers have been killed. The new Palestinian toll does not distinguish between fighters and civilians. Thousands more bodies are believed to be buried under rubble, meaning the true toll is likely to be significantly higher, Palestinian officials and rescue workers say. Israeli airstrikes overnight killed at least 30 Palestinians in Nuseirat camp in central Gaza, Gaza health authorities said. Doctors at Al-Awda Hospital said at least 14 women and 12 children were among the dead. The hospital also said that 13 people had been killed and dozens wounded by Israeli gunfire along the Salahudeen Road as they waited for aid trucks to roll into Gaza. Only half of requests approved Saar said 5,000 aid trucks had entered Gaza in the last two months, and that Israel would assist those wanting to conduct airdrops - a delivery method that aid groups say is ineffective and tokenist. Ross Smith, a senior regional program adviser at the World Food Programme, told reporters in Geneva by video: "We're getting approximately 50% of what we're requesting into Gaza since these humanitarian pauses started on Sunday. "We are not going to be able to address the needs of the population unless we can move in the volume that we need." Israel and the U.S. accuse Hamas of stealing aid - which the militants deny - and the U.N. of failing to prevent it. The U.N. says it has not seen evidence of Hamas diverting much aid. Hamas accuses Israel of causing starvation and using aid as a weapon. In this article NSC UNP Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT A Union Pacific locomotive at a rail yard in Milpitas, California, US, on Wednesday, July 5, 2023. Union Pacific Corp. is scheduled to release earnings figures on July 26. David Paul Morris | Bloomberg | Getty Images The largest rail workers' union in the U.S. is planning to oppose the $85 billion mega-merger between freight railroads Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern . SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD) tells CNBC it will oppose the proposed deal over concerns about Union Pacific's labor practices. In a statement, the railroad union urged all parties to use "measured skepticism" in evaluating how the merger could impact rail workers, safety, service quality, and the long-term health of the freight rail industry. The union is currently in labor negotiations with Union Pacific for a new contract. The union, which represents roughly 125,000 active and retired railroad, bus and mass transit workers and is part of the larger SMART union which represents over 200,000 workers in all said in a statement that under its current leadership, Union Pacific has developed "a troubling safety record." "Publicly available data from recent years reveals UP leads the industry in accidents, incidents, injuries, and fatalities. This trend reflects a broader corporate culture that, in our view, prioritizes aggressive operating ratios over worker and public safety," SMART-TD stated. The union alleges "excessive levels" of harassment and retaliatory behavior against workers by Union Pacific. A Union Pacific spokesperson cited CEO Jim Vena's comments on a Tuesday analyst call, in which the CEO said the combined companies will deliver faster, more comprehensive freight service to U.S. shippers and grow as it competes better in the market. The merger, which would be the largest buyout ever in the rail sector, would create the nation's first coast-to-coast freight rail operator, combining Union Pacific's strength in the western U.S. with Norfolk's network primarily covering the eastern U.S. watch now SMART-TD said that Norfolk Southern, "in stark contrast" to Union Pacific, has moved toward more progressive labor and operational policies in recent years, prioritizing training and transparency, and publicly pledging not to furlough conductors or engineers during economic slowdowns. A spokesman for SMART-TD said the labor union will make its case to block the merger before the Surface Transportation Board, which needs to grant approval for the deal, during an open comment period. The STB is the federal agency that oversees economic regulation of multiple modes of surface transportation, primarily freight rail. Union Pacific has faced heat from regulators in Washington, D.C., in recent years, including the STB, over its labor practices. Union Pacific labor practices have been a focus for another major rail union, The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), which represents 32,000 workers and recently voiced its concerns directly to President Trump. In a June 2 letter, BLET National President Mark Wallace asked Trump to take "immediate and decisive action" to help protect national security and American rail jobs at the southern U.S. border with Mexico. In the letter to Trump, obtained by CNBC, Wallace said Union Pacific, as well as and other Class I freight rails (though it only cited Union Pacific by name), were trying to move and replace American locomotive engineers with Mexican national train crews to operate trains across the southern Border in Texas and potentially expanding into New Mexico and Arizona. "This mirrors a precedent set by Kansas City Southern (now CPKC ), which began using Mexican crews in 2018 to operate trains more than 10 miles into U.S. territory," the union president stated in the letter. Wallace stressed it was not only a job displacement issue but also a national security issue. "Recently, a Mexican national employed by Ferromex the very company Union Pacific intends to partner with was arrested by U.S. Customs and Border Protection for smuggling migrants across the border by train. American train crews serve as a vital line of defense, providing an additional layer of scrutiny as trains cross into our territory," the letter stated. watch now Union Pacific said on Tuesday it would buy smaller rival Norfolk Southern in an $85 billion deal to create the first U.S. coast-to-coast freight rail operator and reshape the movement of goods from grains to autos across the country. If approved, the deal would be the largest ever buyout in the sector and combine Union Pacific's stronghold in the western two-thirds of the U.S. with Norfolk's 19,500-mile (31,400-km) network that primarily spans 22 eastern states. The two railroads are expected to have a combined enterprise value of $250 billion and would unlock about $2.75 billion in annualized synergies, the companies said. The $320-per-share price implies a premium of 18.6% for Norfolk from its close on July 17, when reports of the merger first emerged. The companies said last Thursday that they were in advanced discussions for a possible merger. Talks between the two began in earnest in May, according to a source familiar with the matter. The deal will face lengthy regulatory scrutiny amid union concerns over potential rate increases, service disruptions and job losses. The 1996 merger of Union Pacific and Southern Pacific had temporarily led to severe congestion and delays across the Southwest. The deal reflects a shift in antitrust enforcement under U.S. President Donald Trump's administration. Executive orders aimed at removing barriers to consolidation have opened the door to mergers that were previously considered unlikely. Surface Transportation Board (STB) Chairman Patrick Fuchs, appointed by Trump in January to head the agency that oversees competition and other areas of economic importance in the rail industry, has advocated for faster preliminary reviews and a more flexible approach to merger conditions. The STB review process takes 16 months, per its statute, and the companies have said they are targeting a filing with the STB within six months, people familiar with the matter said. The companies said in the statement they expect the deal to close in early 2027. Major railroad unions have long opposed consolidation, arguing that such mergers threaten jobs and risk disrupting rail service. The transportation division of SMART, the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers, said it plans to oppose the merger when it comes before the STB for review. "We approach this development with measured skepticism rooted in the real-world impact such consolidation could have on rail workers, safety, service quality, and the long-term health of the freight rail industry," the largest U.S. union said in a statement on Tuesday. The SMART-TD union's transport division is North America's largest railroad operating union with more than 1,800 railroad yardmasters. The North American rail industry has been grappling with volatile freight volumes, rising labor and fuel costs and growing pressure from shippers over service reliability, factors that could further complicate the merger. Union Pacific and Norfolk's shares were down about 3% each. Bank of America is moving to the sidelines on Whirlpool after the company's latest results suggest weaker near-term growth. Analyst Rafe Jadrosich downgraded Whirlpool to underperform from neutral. Accompanying the move, he lowered his price target by $30 to $70 to reflect the company's dividend cut and elevated leverage, he said. Jadrosich's new price target on the home appliance stock which is already down roughly 14.5% this year implies shares could lose another 28.5%. "We expect near-term uncertainty related to slowing discretionary demand, higher promotions, and a volatile environment in international markets to constrain WHR's valuation multiple in the medium term," Jadrosich wrote in a Tuesday note to clients. WHR 1Y mountain Whirlpool stock performance over the past year. Whirlpool shares plummeted more than 16% in premarket trading Tuesday, after the company on Monday reported disappointing second-quarter results . Whirlpool missed top- and bottom-line estimates and gave below-consensus guidance for full-year adjusted earnings, as the company came out with lower year-over-year major domestic appliance sales in its North America, Latin America and Asia segments. Jadrosich highlighted that Whirlpool management also recommended that the board approve a reduction in the annual dividend to $3.6 from $7 per share. After results, the analyst expects headwinds to Whirlpool's North America business will persist through 2025, particularly as tariff tailwinds have not yet materialized in the stock. "Whirlpool has yet to benefit from tariffs on appliance imports despite its favorable US manufacturing footprint compared to peers due to: 1) manufacturers/retailers brought in inventory ahead of tariff implementation and 2) foreign competitors appear more willing to sacrifice margin near-term to hold market share," Jadrosich said. "If tariffs result in another round of industry price increases, we see risk that volume deteriorates in a weak consumer environment," he added. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) sources on Tuesday, July 29, refuted the claims of Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya's execution being cancelled by the Yemen authorities by calling them "inaccurate"."Information being shared by certain individuals on the Nimisha Priya case is inaccurate," MEA sources told CNBC-TV18.This comes in response to the statement made by the Grand Mufti of India Kanthapuram AP Abubakar Musliyar claiming that Priya's death sentence has been completely overturned.However, the statement also reportedly added that an official communication from the Yemeni authorities is yet to be received in the matter.Nimisha Priya's death sentence was scheduled for July 16, 2025 which was later postponed due to the interventions of the Grand Mufti of India through the help of an influential Yemeni sheikh.Priya is convicted of killing a Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mahdi in 2017. He was her business partner who later started to torture and sexually abuse her and even confiscated her passport.In order to get her passport back and flee, Priya decided to inject Mahdi with sedatives but he died of an overdose.She was sentenced for the death sentence in 2018. Her appeals were rejected in 2020 and 2023 and in 2024, the Yemeni President confirmed her execution for July 16 this year which was postponed.The family of Priya is negotiating with the deceased man's family to pardon her and accept blood money. However, the family has been reluctant in doing do, with the man's brother claiming that only retribution as per Shariat Law will be accepted by the family. Congress MP and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has decided to adopt over 20 children who lost their parents in the India-Pakistan conflict after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.Jammu and Kashmir Congress chief Tariq Hamid Karra stated that Gandhi will bear the educational expenses of 22 children in Poonch, who lost both their parents or the sole bread-winner of the family during the Pakistani shelling, The Indian Express reported.During a visit to Poonch in May, Rahul Gandh i directed local party leaders to compile a list of children who had been affected. Following that, a survey was carried out, and the names of the children were finalised after cross-checking with official documents.On Wednesday, the first instalment of the aid will be released to enable the children to continue their studies. The assistance will continue till these children graduate, Karra said. Gandhi also went to the Christ Public School, where two students, 12-year-old twins Urba Fatima and Zain Ali, were among the casualties. He encouraged the children to study hard, play, and make friends despite the challenges.I feel very, very proud of you. You miss your little friends. Im very sorry about that. Now, you feel a little bit of danger, a little frightened, but dont worry, everything will go back to normal Your way of responding to this should be to study really hard, play really hard and make a lot of friends in school, he was quoted as saying by the outlet.Poonch town was one of the worst-affected by cross-border shelling, with several children injured or killed.The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian forces struck nine terror targets in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals. The government has decided to conduct a 16-hour long debate on Operation Sindoor in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha each. The debate was started by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday, July 28. EAM S Jaishankar also outlined the government's response and activities along with mentioning India's diplomatic efforts after the Operation Sindoor, while clarifying there was no conversation between Trump and Modi . Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi spoke on behalf of the Opposition on the first day. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, July 29, said that no leader of any country asked India to stop Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, but did not name US President Trump in his statement."No leader of any country asked India to stop the operation," PM Modi said.However, PM Modi mentioned about his conversation with US VP JD Vance on May 9, who told him that Pakistan is planning a huge military retaliation against India. "I made clear that if Pakistan attacks, India will retaliate with stronger military measures," he said."No country in the world has stopped India from any action in its defence against terror," PM Modi added.The Parliament witnessed an uproar by the Opposition members as they raised demands for a clear statement on Trump's claims and the loss suffered by Indian military aircraft.PM Modi further said that Pakistan realised that India would conduct a huge operation after Pahalgam attack. "India conducted the operation as planned but Pakistan could not do anything," he said.He added that India reached inside Pakistan's territory which was never imagined before. "Indian army destroyed the terror sites of Pakistan," he said, adding that India proved that Pakistan's nuclear threats were a lie."India displayed its technological capabilities during the conflict. We destroyed Pakistan's multiple airbases and they are still under ICU," Modi stated, highlighting the use of 'Made in India' weapons."Whole world realised the power of India and its self-reliance as it destroyed the drones and missiles of Pakistan," the Prime Minister said. The whole world witnessed the range of India's military capabilities.The Prime Minister also highlighted that he had given a clear message to the whole world so that they can understand India's resolution against terrorism, terrorists and their supporters, while thanking the citizens for the support. "I express my gratitude to the people of India for support during Operation Sindoor," PM Modi said.PM Modi further outlined three resolutions taken by the government to be taken in the future. "India will respond on its terms and time against the future terror attacks and activities. No nuclear blackmail will be tolerated. We do not differentiate between masterminds of terror and state actors," PM Modi said.India conducted precision strikes on the terror base camps and sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in the early hours of May 7 under Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack of April 26 where at least 26 people were gunned down by the terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir.Pakistan responded to India's strikes by using drones and missiles. The conflict escalated and continued till May 10, when the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan initiated a discussion for ceasefire with his Indian counterpart.A ceasefire 'understanding' was reached to stop the firings across the Line of Control (LoC) and halt all military actions across the International Border between India and Pakistan. The first week of the Monsoon Session of the Parliament was marred with disruptions and adjournments after the Opposition demanded discussion on Operation Sindoor , Pahalgam terror attack, SIR of electoral rolls in Bihar, among others. Time and again, the Opposition has raised the issue of United States President Donald Trump taking credit of playing a major role in bringing peace between India and Pakistan and ending the war in May. India has, however, declined any sort of mediation in the matter while emphasising that the decision to cease the military operations was taken after Pakistan initiated the talks directly. The government has decided to conduct a 16-hour long debate on Operation Sindoor in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha each. The debate started on Monday, July 28. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also at the Parliament and is likely to address the House on the matter in the evening of July 29. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi is also likely to participate in the debate. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday, July 29, said that the Indian Armed Forces entered over 100 kilometres (km) deep inside Pakistan's territory during Operation Sindoor and killed over 100 terrorists during the strikes."Our security forces neutralised more than 100 terrorists during Operation Sindoor," Shah told Lok Sabha during the debate on the matter."In surgical and air strikes, India attacked targets in PoK, which is our land itself, but in Operation Sindoor, targets were 100 km inside Pakistan," he added."Operation Sindoor killed those who sent the terrorists and Operation Mahadev killed those who carried out the attack... I thought that after hearing this news, there would be a wave of happiness in the ruling and the Opposition parties, 'Magar Syaahi padd gayi inke chehre pe' (Their faces are smeared with ink)... What kind of politics is this?" Shah said while attacking the Opposition.The Home Minister further raised questions on the Congress government on not taking action against Pakistan even when India's footing was strong during the previous wars."Yesterday, they (Congress) were raising questions about why there was no war. Today, PoK exists only because of Jawaharlal Nehru. In 1948, Indian armed forces were in decisive position to take back PoK but then PM Nehru declared unilateral ceasefire. In 1960, they gave 80% of the Indus waters to Pakistan," Shah said."In 1971, 93,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered, India had 15,000 sq km Pakistan territory under control, but PoK was not taken back. During the Simla Agreement, they (Congress) forgot about PoK. If they had taken PoK then, we would not have to carry out attacks on camps there now," he added.India conducted precision strikes on the terror base camps and sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in the early hours of May 7 under Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack of April 26 where at least 26 people were gunned down by the terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir.Pakistan responded to India's strikes by using drones and missiles. The conflict escalated and continued till May 10, when the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan initiated a discussion for ceasefire with his Indian counterpart.A ceasefire 'understanding' was reached to stop the firings across the Line of Control (LoC) and halt all military actions across the International Border between India and Pakistan. The sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra resumed in June 2025, following a five-year suspension. The revered journey, suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic and escalating tensions along the border following the Galwan Valley battle with China, has been reopened, allowing devotees to make the once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to Mount Kailash.Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently shared an update on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route, stating the government was attempting to bypass it from both China and Nepal. According to Gadkari, temperatures in the region drop to as low as -4 to -6 degrees Celsius, making it a challenging task. To overcome these difficulties, Australian tunnelling machines were brought in via helicopters to facilitate the construction process.Despite the challenges, significant progress has been made on the project, with 85-90% of the work already completed, which will provide a direct commute from Pithoragarh to Mansarovar, he said. However, the remaining 10% poses considerable difficulties due to the harsh environment. The Border Road Organisation (BRO) is working tirelessly to complete this demanding task, he added.It is very difficult as the temperature drops to minus 8 degrees Celsius, and we can only continue work for 3-4 months a year," he said. Gadkari has also stated that despite the challenges, the project will be completed shortly. He expressed optimism about completing the project by April 2026.He plans to visit the site personally and is determined to make the route accessible for pilgrims. Gadkari shared that his wife had initially planned to undertake the yatra from Nepal, but he asked her to wait, as they would soon be able to travel from India.The new route will offer a direct commute from Pithoragarh to Mansarovar, bypassing current routes through Nepal and Sikkim. He mentioned that 16-17 km of China's road network will still be required for access.On June 13, 2025, the first batch of pilgrims for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025 began their journey from New Delhi. The ceremony was presided over by Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita at Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan.Mount Kailash is in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) of China. It is regarded as one of the most sacred pilgrimage locations for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Yungdrung Bon followers. Lake Mansarovar, around 20 km from Mount Kailash, is also widely revered. It is believed to be the source of several major rivers, including the Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra, and Karnali.The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. The yatra currently takes place via Nathula Pass in Sikkim and Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand. Despite all the avocado toast and pricey lattes theyve allegedly been sacrificing their savings for, young people now make up a significant chunk of the housing market. According to the National Association of Realtors, millennials make up 29% of recent homebuyers, and millennials and Generation Z combined account for nearly 1 in 3 home purchases. To find out where homeownership is most accessible for young people, the ConsumerAffairs Research Team analyzed homeownership rates and home purchase loan data for Americans under 35 in 100 of the largest U.S. metro areas. Are you looking into which mortgage lender is best or starting your homebuying journey? Check out our findings below to learn how your city stacks up. Key insights Homeownership is most attainable for young people in the Omaha, Nebraska, metro area. In 2023, more than 62% of mortgages were taken out by people under 35. Jump to insight The Provo, Utah, metro area has the highest share of young homeowners in the U.S. Nearly a quarter of all homeowners are under 35. Jump to insight Seven of the 10 most accessible metros for young homeowners are in the Midwest. Jump to insight The North Port, Florida, metro area is the least accessible for young homeowners. People under 35 make up just 8.5% of all homeowners. Jump to insight All 10 of the least accessible metros for young homeowners are in Florida, California or Hawaii. Jump to insight The 25 metros with the most young homeowners 10 metros where young homeownership is most accessible While one Western and two Southern metro areas are represented on the top 10 list, seven of the 10 most accessible metros for young homeowners are in the Midwest. But why is it easier for young people to buy homes there and not elsewhere? When it comes to young homeowners specifically, affordability is easily the most influential factor, said Harrison Stevens, the vice president of marketing at TurboTenant. Young homeowners today are not just faced with higher housing prices than ever before, but also more student loan debt, a higher cost of living in general and salaries that hold far less weight. Even if they might want to live elsewhere, young homebuyers are often left with choosing areas, like the Midwest, where houses are more affordable, Stevens said. The Midwest also has what Jacob Naig, a real estate agent and investor, calls psychological affordability. (Naig is based in Des Moines, Iowa, which is ranked the sixth-most accessible metro area for homebuyers under 35.) Young people (in the Midwest) dont feel as though theyre stretching each dime, and they dont feel as if theyre falling behind, Naig said. They can own a house, rehabilitate it and perhaps even make an investment in a second property within five years. That sort of momentum is hard to find in larger metros. Read on to learn more about each of the top-ranked metros for young homebuyers. 1. Omaha, Nebraska The Omaha, Nebraska/Council Bluffs, Iowa, metropolitan area tops our ranking for young adults greatest access to homeownership. Over 18% of Omahans under age 35 own their homes (the ninth-highest young homeownership rate in the country). That percentage is more than four points above the national average, representing more than 31,000 residents of this region. Even more noteworthy: Adults under 35 in Omaha take out more than 62% of all home purchase loans in the metro area the highest rate in the country. Interestingly, homeownership among this age bracket has actually fallen slightly in recent years about 0.6% from 2019 to 2023. It could be a symptom of its hot housing market: Homes in Omaha spent a median of just 10 days on the market in early 2025. That was less than half the national median of 21 days. Omaha boasts these key metrics: Homeownership rate of people under 35: 18.2% (ninth highest) 18.2% (ninth highest) Share of home purchase loans taken out by buyers under 35: 62.4% (highest) 2. Provo, Utah The Provo-Orem area ranks second overall for young peoples access to homeownership. The metro has the highest homeownership rate of people under 35 of any of the cities we compared: 24.4%, or nearly 1 in 4 adults under age 35 in the Provo area, own a home. Thats more than 10 points higher than the national average (14.1%). It would be difficult to contextualize these figures without acknowledging the impact of religion on Provos landscape (specifically, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). In 2020, approximately 83% of residents of Utah County of which Provo is the county seat identified as church members. Honestly, in Provo, you feel the impact of the LDS community in daily life. People get married and start families earlier, which puts buying a home on their minds young, said Andrew Fortune, founder of Great Colorado Homes, who has family near the Provo area. Interestingly, despite median home sale prices exceeding $526,000, the area ranks relatively low in its share of homebuyers under age 35 taking on home loans. Some young homebuyers who are church members get homebuying help from their families so they can settle nearby, said Fortune. Church teachings discouraging debt may also translate to fewer members taking out mortgages. Regardless of faith, first-time homebuyers may be eligible for the City of Provos generous down payment assistance programs, which offer loans of up to $60,000 with 0% interest and deferred payment. Check out these key metrics: Homeownership rate of people under 35: 24.4% (highest) 24.4% (highest) Share of home purchase loans taken out by buyers under 35: 47.7% (26th highest) 3. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma The Oklahoma City area ranks third overall, with impressive numbers in both key factors in our methodology. Nearly 19% of OKC residents under age 35 own a home: Thats the fifth-highest homeownership rate for young adults of all the cities we analyzed. The metro ranks even higher for the share of home loans taken out by young buyers. Nearly 60% of home purchase loans or almost 3 in 5 in Oklahoma City are taken out by homebuyers under age 35. (Thats the second-largest share of all the cities in our analysis.) It may help that median home prices in the Oklahoma City area are among the lowest for a major U.S. metro. In June 2025, the median home sale price there was $248,526; thats about 35% below the median home sale price of all the metros we analyzed. Consider these key metrics: Homeownership rate of people under 35: 18.7% (fifth highest) 18.7% (fifth highest) Share of home purchase loans taken out by buyers under 35: 59.8% (second highest) 4. Tulsa, Oklahoma Oklahoma has not one but two cities that rank high for young adults access to homeownership: Right behind the third-ranked Oklahoma City area is the Tulsa, Oklahoma, metro, ranked fourth best overall. As in Oklahoma City, adults under 35 in Tulsa take out nearly 60% of all home loans. Tulsa also has a sizable population of young homeowners: Nearly 18% of Tulsa residents under 35 own their homes. Note these key metrics: Homeownership rate of people under 35: 17.8% (11th highest) 17.8% (11th highest) Share of home purchase loans taken out by buyers under 35: 59.6% (fourth highest) 5. Grand Rapids, Michigan In the Grand Rapids-Kentwood area, more than 21% of adults under age 35 are homeowners. That homeownership rate is seven points higher than the national average for young adults, and its the second-highest rate of all the areas we compared. Nearly half of all homebuying loans in the metro are taken out by people under 35, which puts it in the top 20 metros for that metric. If youve aged out of the young homebuyers designation but are still new to the housing market, Grand Rapids might be a great fit. We found that its affordable housing, above-average home value appreciation and strong quality of life make the city an excellent option for first-time homebuyers of all ages. Key metrics for Grand Rapids: Homeownership rate of people under 35: 21.1% (second highest) 21.1% (second highest) Share of home purchase loans taken out by buyers under 35: 49.5% (18th highest) 6. Des Moines, Iowa The Des Moines-West Des Moines metro area earned a spot in the top 10 with a high rate of homeownership among young people. Nearly 1 in 5 residents under age 35 own their home: Thats the fourth-highest rate of all the metros we compared, and nearly six points higher than the nationwide average. As housing continues to be a hot topic for the metro area, the Des Moines City Council is taking steps to lay a strong foundation to support affordable, quality housing. In July 2025, the City Council unanimously voted to accept its first-ever citywide housing strategy, which includes key investments in neighborhood improvement, down payment assistance and the growth of the Central Iowa Community Land Trust. Check out these key metrics: Homeownership rate of people under 35: 19.8% (fourth highest) 19.8% (fourth highest) Share of home purchase loans taken out by buyers under 35: 51.6% (14th highest) 7. Wichita, Kansas Wichita, Kansas, ranks as the seventh-most accessible metro in the U.S. for young homebuyers. More than 18% of adults under 35 in Kansass most populous city own their own homes. Adults under 35 make up almost 53% of all homebuying loans in Wichita, the 10th-largest share of all the metros we compared. Despite the nickname of Cowtown, Wichita has plenty for young adults to do. Theres a significant millennial population: More than a quarter of Greater Wichita is 25 to 44, and the median age is 35.6 thats three-and-a-half years younger than the national median age of 39.1. Consider these key metrics: Homeownership rate of people under 35: 18.4% (sixth highest) 18.4% (sixth highest) Share of home purchase loans taken out by buyers under 35: 52.8% (10th highest) 8. Cincinnati, Ohio Young homebuyers are flocking to Cincinnati, and its not just to try out the famously polarizing chili (flavored with cinnamon and often served over spaghetti, if youre unfamiliar). The metro is home to more than 69,000 homeowners under age 35. Thats more than 1 in 6 young adults in the Cincinnati area who own a home. And in recent years, that share has only grown: From 2019 to 2023, the homeownership rate among young adults increased by nearly 15% the largest increase among our top-ranked metros. Cincinnati also ranks high for young buyers share of home loans. Nearly 55% of home purchase loans in the metro area are taken out by adults under 35 the seventh-highest rate in the nation. Note these key metrics: Homeownership rate of people under 35: 17% (14th highest) 17% (14th highest) Share of home purchase loans taken out by buyers under 35: 54.7% (seventh highest) 9. Minneapolis, Minnesota Nearly 119,000 homeowners under age 35 live in the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington metro area the fifth-largest population of all the cities we examined. About 16.5% of young adults own their homes. While young adults in this metro have higher median incomes than anywhere else in the top 10 ($82,637 for adults under 44), they also frequently take out loans to buy a home. Nearly 55% of all home loans in the Minneapolis metro area are taken out by adults under 35. Minneapolis has the following key metrics: Homeownership rate of people under 35: 16.5% (19th highest) 16.5% (19th highest) Share of home purchase loans taken out by buyers under 35: 54.6% (eighth highest) 10. Akron, Ohio Rounding out the top 10 metros for young adult homeownership is Akron, Ohio. Interestingly, the metro only ranks a hair above the national average for the share of young adults who own their homes. Akron earned its place in the top 10 because young homebuyers dominate the mortgage scene: Nearly 60% of all home purchase loans in the area are taken out by adults under 35. In a boon for young and mature homebuyers alike, Akron offers some of the most affordable homes of any metro area in the country. The median home sale price was just $221,507 as of June 2025, the second lowest of all metros we researched. Households in the Rubber City need just $83,336 in annual income to afford a home, a third less than whats needed nationally. Consider these key metrics: Homeownership rate of people under 35: 14.2% (51st highest) 14.2% (51st highest) Share of home purchase loans taken out by buyers under 35: 59.6% (third highest) Metros where young homeownership is least accessible Unfortunately, young homebuyers face significant obstacles to ownership in many major metropolitan areas. The least accessible is the North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida, metro, where people under 35 make up just 8.5% of all homeowners. The following metros are the least accessible for young homeowners: North Port, Florida West Palm Beach, Florida San Francisco, California Los Angeles, California Fort Lauderdale, Florida Honolulu, Hawaii Anaheim, California Miami, Florida Oxnard, California Cape Coral, Florida Why arent young people buying homes in certain areas? Notably, all 10 of the least accessible metros for young homeowners are in Florida, California or Hawaii. Floridas significant snowbird and retiree population may partially explain why the Sunshine State is so heavily represented in the bottom ranks. But the rising cost of home insurance has also made homeownership less affordable as residents of these states grapple with climate disasters like hurricanes, floods, fires and earthquakes, which are increasingly frequent and increasingly devastating. But why else are young homeownership rates so low in these states? (Its) not so much about desire as it is around structural exclusion, said Naig, the real estate agent in Iowa. All three of these states are grappling with a triple threat of affordability: sky-high land and home prices, stagnation in wages compared to the cost of living and a tight supply of starter homes, thanks to zoning laws and investors competing for them. Moving to bring homeownership within reach Take the Continis, a married couple in their early 30s who left the San Francisco Bay Area one of the least accessible parts of the country for young buyers to pursue homeownership and a career change. (Theyre now settled in Columbus, Ohio, ranked 13th best for young homebuyers.) The accessibility of the housing here (in Columbus) enabled me to become a homeowner while pursuing my Ph.D., said Nick Contini, a doctoral student at Ohio State University. One of us would have had to make triple what we made in the Bay Area for this to be feasible there, added his wife, Mary, an administrator at a local immigration law firm. How does your metro compare for young homeownership? Where does your city fall in terms of accessibility to young homebuyers? Check out the full data below: Methodology The ConsumerAffairs Research Team analyzed data from 100 of the most populous U.S. metro areas to identify the most accessible places for young homeowners. Our analysis focused on two key indicators, each weighed equally: The homeownership rate for individuals under age 35, using the latest available data from the U.S. Census Bureau (2022) The share of home purchase loans taken out by applicants under 35, based on 2023 data from the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) Each metro was scored for each metric, with a maximum point total of 50 given to the metro with the highest percentage and other metros receiving relative scores. The two scores were added together to give each metro a total score out of 100. To provide additional context, we also gathered the following supplemental data: Median home sale prices as of June 2025 (Zillow) Median household income for owners and renters under 44 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023) Change in homeownership rate for individuals under 35 from 2019 to 2023 (U.S. Census Bureau) These supplemental data points were not factored into our rankings but were included to help frame the broader affordability landscape for young buyers. China urges Japan not to send any wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces: spokesperson Xinhua) 13:10, July 29, 2025 BEIJING, July 28 (Xinhua) -- China urges Japan not to send any wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said here on Monday. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the remarks when asked to comment on the report that the head of Taiwan's so-called foreign affairs department Lin Chia-lung recently made a "private" trip to Japan and met with Japanese politicians. China strongly deplores and firmly opposes Japan's action of allowing Lin to make the so-called "private" trip to Japan, Guo said, adding that "we've lodged serious representations to the Japanese side in Beijing and Tokyo and made strong protests." Noting that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, Guo pointed out that the Taiwan question is at the core of China's core interests, concerning the political foundation of China-Japan relations and basic trust between the two countries. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Guo noted that Japan's colonial rule over Taiwan lasted for half a century and Japan bears serious historical responsibility to the Chinese people. Guo said that China urges the Japanese side to abide by the principles of the four political documents between China and Japan and the solemn commitments it has made, to deeply reflect on history, draw lessons from history, and be cautious in its words and deeds on the Taiwan question. The Japanese side should never undermine China's sovereignty in any form, send any wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, or underestimate the strong determination, will and ability of the Chinese people to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, said Guo. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Because there are actually two American presidents involved in one of the largest scandals in U.S. history Theres never gonna be a moment in this lifetime or the next where I say that Donald Trump should be able to move past this Epstein Files debacle. It should be how he spends the rest of his life, and we should make sure it's a highlighted section in his legacy that he was heavily involved with prolific pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Rightfully, Jon Stewart spent another Monday night monologue on The Daily Show covering the absolutely bonkers ways Trump has been trying to spin the increasingly overwhelming evidence against him. Saying you never had the privilege to visit Epsteins island? Saying pardoning Ghislaine Maxwell is something youre allowed to do? Its not innocent, as the kids say. But do you know who elses name has popped up in the Epstein Files news? The worlds most irritating vegan and the 42nd president, Bill Clinton. According to reporting from The Wall Street Journal, he was the other U.S. president to have written a card in the infamous birthday book given to Epstein as a present from Ghislaine Maxwell. Clinton and Trump joined other standup guys like former Victorias Secret owner Les Wexner and attorney Alan Dershowitz. And while Trump is certain to use Clintons inclusion in the book and alleged inclusion in the files as a way to mine partisan distraction away from his own involvement, it doesnt mean anyone should be letting Mr. Jazz get off scot-free either. Like Trump, Clinton has been involved in notable sex scandals and has been credibly accused of sexual assault. The accusations might not compare in breadth or scope to Trump, but it doesnt make them any less important. Don't Miss Thankfully, Stewart is deft enough to both cut through Trumps bullshit while still letting the audience know that two presidents, not just one, are deeply embroiled within this saga. By the way, I never went to the island, Trump said during an interview with the Scottish press. But Bill Clinton went, uhhh 28 times. Stewart responded with a pregnant pause and some eye-rolling. You expect me to believe that Bill Clinton went to the island only 28 times? Stewart exclaimed, to a mix of groans and laughs in the audience. No way. If anyone had VIP Diamond Island Status Theres probably still parrots alive on that island going, Hey Bill, back again. Hey Bill, back again. Advertisement I cant lie. Stewart does a terrible parrot impression, and he knows it, because he broke after he finished the avian impersonation. Its alright though. You get a little extra wiggle room for delivery when youre implying that two U.S. presidents are involved in a global child sex-trafficking ring. Jay Leno believes that late-night shows such as the recently canceled The Late Show with Stephen Colbert lost their way when they started being too critical and alienating in their political humor, as opposed to the welcoming and uncontroversial way he called Monica Lewinsky a slut every night on national television. Over the last few days, Lenos recent and extremely poorly timed interview about the state of late night in 2025 has empowered the online right and enraged the left as the former Tonight Show host declared to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation that todays late-night hosts are struggling because they picked sides in politics, unlike himself. In case the irony and hypocrisy of Leno claiming that partisanship ruins comedy in a conversation with the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation wasnt nauseating enough in a vacuum, theres also Lenos long history of picking sides usually conservative ones in his own political comedy stylings that further puts his comments at odds with his actions. I dont think anybody wants to hear a lecture. Why shoot for just half an audience? Leno lamented of what he perceives to be political side-taking in modern late-night comedy. I dont understand why you would alienate one particular group. Don't Miss So I guess Leno doesnt understand why he rat-fucked Conan O'Brien and his fanbase either. According to a 2014 study, Leno made more than 4,600 jokes about President Bill Clinton during his time hosting The Tonight Show, which is far more partisan cracks at the President than any other public figure made during the Clinton administration. That, alone, should be a disqualifying piece of evidence in Lenos claim to have been a both sides political comedian, and his accusation that todays late-night hosts alienate half of their audience by calling out President Donald Trumps war on the freedom of the press couldnt have come from a glassier house. Advertisement Additionally, if Leno is really going to claim that half the late-night audience are Trump supporters who had to stop watching their favorite comedian Stephen Colbert when he went after the Commander-in-Chief one too many times, how would Leno justify making the disparagement and disrespect of women and one woman in particular his entire shtick in the late 1990s? Seriously, Leno was the most sexist, savage and ceaseless critic of Lewinsky, whose affair with her powerful boss when she was 23 years old led to a lifetime of harassment and attacks from right-wing pundits, voters and entertainers. Leno used the public humiliation of a young woman as a weapon in his war against a President whom he disliked, and, out of all the ugliest and most misogynistic attacks on Lewinsky from that ugly era of political comedy, Lenos nightly slut-shaming and name-calling of the disgraced former intern remain the most under-the-belt and mean-spirited examples of what Lewinsky now calls the worlds first cyberbullying campaign. Advertisement Now, as Paramount sets to silencing any public critics of the President by burning down the very medium of late-night comedy, Leno gets to kick back with his fellow Reagan enthusiasts and pretend that he would never dream of being such a proselytizing pundit like Colbert. But as John Oliver pointed out back in 2019, Leno needs to do some light reading on his own history with politically charged humor maybe in Olivers book, Oh, the Places You Can Go F--- Yourself, Jay Leno! Kenny McCormick has died and respawned countless times, but Donald Trump may still be the most canonically baffling character in all of South Park. In response to recent criticisms claiming that South Park never pokes fun at the left, which is almost too dumb to dignify with a response, a viral social post pointed out that there have been four different iterations of Trump, each rendered in a totally different animation style. And technically, there have been five if you count the synthetic media deepfake that appeared at the very end of last weeks episode. Don't Miss So lets take a minute to run through these assorted Trump clones, starting with Businessman Trump (Season Five) A more straightforward caricature of Trump can be seen briefly in Season Fives The Entity, when Mr. Garrison pitches his highly-suggestive gyroscopic airline alternative to a panel of super-rich guys. A pre-Apprentice Trump is seated in the front row, sandwiched between Ted Turner and Bill Gates. Sweet! the animated Trump declares as the invention is revealed. The Canadian President (Season 19) As weve mentioned before, in the episode Where My Country Gone?, Mr. Garrison becomes fed up with Canadian immigrants and journeys to the Great White North. He discovers that the mass Canuck exodus is due to the dictatorial rule of a blatant Trump analogue, who has erected a border wall between the two countries. While he has a flapping head like other South Park Canadians, the Canadian President unmistakably has Trumps trademark combover, just waiting to be playfully tussled by Canadian Jimmy Fallon. The less said about what ultimately happens to this version of Trump, the better. Mr. Garrison (Season 19 to 26) Despite Kyles warnings, Mr. Garrisons solution to the problems created by the Canadian Trump is to become Americas President Trump, running against Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election on a campaign of xenophobia and petty rage. Advertisement But she is somehow unable to defeat the candidate, who flat out admits I dont know what the fuck Im doing. This ended up completely upending the shows season premiere. Advertisement The Trump/Garrison arc finally came to an end in Season 26, when the fourth-grade teacher opted to give up rallying in order to be with his partner Rick in Spring Break. Advertisement In the recent season premiere, Sermon on the Mount even the residents of South Park were confused to discover that they hadnt voted Garrison into office, finding him at home with Rick watching The White Lotus meaning that the current president is Advertisement Advertisement Trump/Saddam (Season 27) The new, headline-grabbing iteration of Trump is patterned off of the shows old Saddam Hussein character, hence his photographic face, toxic relationship with the literal devil and Canadian accent, owing to Saddams origin as a Terrance and Phillip villain. Peggy Hill isnt a Southern belle. Ahead of King of the Hills Season 14 premiere, co-creator Greg Daniels opened up about the inspiration behind Arlens least fluent Spanish instructor, stating that despite moving to the South after growing up in Montana, Peggy is a Texan woman, not a Southern one. To non-Texans, these terms may seem interchangeable. To King of the Hills team, however, the distinction between the two labels is as different as grilling with charcoal versus propane. Peggy, per Daniels, has more of a frontier, Western spirit than a Southern spirit, at least at the time of the shows development, an aura he said was best exemplified by one of his former flames who hailed from the Lone Star State. Don't Miss When we were first writing King of the Hill, we were talking about Peggy. It seemed very important that she was a Texan woman and not a Southern woman. There seemed to be a big difference, to me, as someone who had a girlfriend from Texas in the mid-1980s, Daniels told Texas Monthly. But Daniels admits the concept of being a Real Texan a marker that proved meaningful to Hank throughout the shows original run is difficult to pin down. Texas is obviously a place and a bunch of people, but its a point of view also, he explained, describing the locale as the opposite of California, in a way. California represents something to people, and I think people are drawn to California for a certain set of values, he continued. And people are drawn to Texas for a set of certain values. So I feel like you can choose to be a Texan. Advertisement Of course, its possible to overthink the whole thing, and King of the Hill co-creator Mike Judge admits that it probably isnt that serious. Or as he put it, I dont know that Texans sit around and think about themselves as Texans. A popular Toronto festival will not be held this year, as organizers say they did not receive their usual funding from the province. Hes a best-selling author with millions of people around the world watching his TED Talks and interviews, but Dr. Gabor Mate still calls Vancouver home and wants his fellow British Columbians to educate themselves about the many factors leading to drug use and what he calls deaths of despair. Modified: Tuesday, 29 July 2025 12:07 BST Frank Davies STORY LINK "Standout" Rally for Pound and Dollar Against Euro on US-EU Trade Deal Reaction Save on Your EUR/USD Transfer Get better rates and lower fees on your next international money transfer. Compare TorFX with top UK banks in seconds and see how much you could save. Compare the Best EUR/USD Rates Like this piece? Please share with your friends and colleagues: The Pound and US Dollar rallied sharply against the Euro on Tuesday as foreign exchange markets reacted to Mondays EU-US trade deal announcement.At the time of writing, the GBP/EUR was trading at around 1.1539, up almost 0.2% from Tuesdays opening levels.According to Lloyds Bank economists, "Yesterday one of the stand-out market movers was the euro, down more than 1% versus the US Dollar intraday. Schatz yields were were lower too."The read across from both the FX and bond moves being that the US-EU framework agreement on trade setting 15% tariffs for most EU exports to the US would be a drag on the euro area."Indeed, that is what the June ECB staff macroeconomic projections foresaw too. Tariffs of 15% for the EU might be less severe than the 30% previously mooted, but that rate is still more of a headwind than the 10% baseline assumed by the ECBs June projections."The Euro (EUR) faced sustained pressure on Tuesday, retreating against most major currencies as markets continued to absorb the implications of the recently announced EUUS trade agreement.After an initial boost on Monday, the single currency reversed course as further details of the deal failed to meet investor expectations.Discontent from key Eurozone members, including Germany and France, added to the downbeat tone, raising concerns about the blocs unity on the issue.This scepticism surrounding the agreement weighed heavily on Euro sentiment, keeping the common currency on the defensive throughout Tuesdays European session.The Pound (GBP) struggled to find clear direction on Tuesday, with a quiet UK economic calendar keeping Sterling broadly rangebound against most of its major peers.In the absence of any domestic catalysts, GBP movement was largely dictated by prevailing market sentiment.Caution crept into global markets following reports of a new EUUS trade agreement, which triggered a more risk-averse tone.As a result, the risk-sensitive Pound lost ground against some of its traditional safe-haven currencies.However, Sterling managed to edge higher against more volatile rivals as investors dialled back their appetite for riskier assets.Looking ahead to Wednesdays European session, the Pound Euro (GBP/EUR) exchange rate is likely to be influenced by a series of key Eurozone data releases.The day begins with Germanys latest retail sales figures. A rebound is expected for June, and a stronger-than-forecast print could lend the Euro some early support.Shortly after, attention will turn to the Eurozones second-quarter GDP estimate. Economists forecast a slight contraction in growth, which may dampen EUR sentiment if confirmed.In addition, the Eurozones latest economic sentiment index will be published. Forecasts point to an improvement in morale, and if the report reflects an uptick in confidence, the Euro may regain its footing.Meanwhile, the UKs economic calendar remains empty, leaving the Pound directionless mid-week.With no domestic data to provide momentum, GBP is likely to once again be influenced by broader market sentiment and external drivers. International Money Transfer? Ask our resident FX expert a money transfer question or try John's new, free, no-obligation personal service! ,where he helps every step of the way, ensuring you get the best exchange rates on your currency requirements. TAGS: Euro Dollar Forecasts Pound Euro Forecasts A key component of worldwide progress is engaged collaboration between institutions of higher learning, regardless of how far apart they might be geographically. In April, Central Washington University Professor of Computer Science Donald Davendra traveled across the globe to his alma mater, the VSB-Technical University of Ostrava in the Czech Republic. He was invited there to speak to the institutions students on his research into electric vehicle and pollution routing, and the ways in which advanced computing techniques might be applied to streamline and improve those processes, in a lecture titled Addressing Electric Vehicle Routing and Pollution Routing Problems Using Metaheuristics and CUDA. While VSB specializes in high-performance computing, electric vehicles and their associated infrastructure havent proliferated as much in Central Europe as in the U.S., giving Davendra the opportunity to offer VSB students insight into a technology that could soon be knocking on their door. While he was in town, Davendra in turn got the chance to see the Czech Republics national supercomputing center, IT4Innovations, which is currently home to the countrys first quantum computer. Davendra explained that this kind of exchange between universities brings added value for students of both institutions. When we create this level of cooperation with other universities, when we share ideas and resources, that helps everyone in the ecosystem, he said. You cant just google things like this; you have to be there, talking to the people involved in these cutting-edge fields, so you can bring that back to your students. On his trip, Davendra established a connection with the supercomputing center leading the quantum computing research in the Czech Republic. As part of his tour of IT4Innovations, Davendra saw firsthand the moment that the first node of the quantum computer, named VSB Lumi Quantum (VLQ), was installed. The moment held great significance to him, as it represented the very latest in high-performance computing, which is Davendras specialty. It was a really rare thing, to be able to see it being installed in the supercomputing center there, he said. My colleagues there are amazing people, and to get that much access and hospitality was incredible. While access to the quantum computer is limited to European universities due to the way in which its being funded, there are no rules against collaborating with the Czech scientists who work with it, in order to enrich the curriculum of CWU students. As quantum computing continues to advance, Davendra believes this approach will be vital in keeping CWU computer science graduates familiar with emerging technology. In a few years, I believe that quantum computing will be everywhere, he said. We have to engage our students in it now, so that they can be ready for that shift. In the months since his visit, Davendra has been in touch with VSBs Vice Dean of International Relations to help solidify the partnership between the two institutions and continue to share the research that moves the world forward. He knows that the work put into that connection today will pay off exponentially for everyone involved. The research bleeds into the teaching, for sure, Davendra said. The research problems I encounter through these kinds of collaborations are what I have students work on for their capstones. That way, they have an advantage when they enter the job market. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. When news first broke on Sunday that the United States and the European Union had agreed a new trade deal, all we had to go on were the broad assurances of President Trump and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, that it was a historic triumph for both sides. The greatest deal ever made, claimed Trump, with characteristic understatement. Then we saw the details. And it was indeed a great deal for America. For the EU, the self-styled greatest trading bloc in the world, it was more like a humiliation. By lunchtime yesterday that grim truth had also dawned on several European leaders. French prime minister Francois Bayrou said it was a dark day for Europe and accused von der Leyen of indulging in an act of submission. His trade minister stated defiantly: This matter is not settled. Meanwhile, prime minister Viktor Orban of Hungary, never one to moderate his language, accused von der Leyen of being a featherweight who had been eaten for breakfast by Trump. And Guy Verhofstadt, the Belgian Euro-federalist blabbermouth, who took such joy in Britains humiliation during the Brexit talks with the EU, described the deal as a disaster in which the American side had not made one concession. One distinguished European commentator even claimed the EU had been forced into making an act of imperial tribute to Washington DC. So I think we can take it that many European leaders are not happy with the greatest deal ever made. You could see the Eurocrats whod negotiated the trade agreement sensed that when they posed for a photograph to mark its signing. Ursula Von der Leyen reacts during a joint press briefing with Trump following their meeting in Turnberry, Scotland. According to Neil, 'its easy to see why her job is now hanging by a thread when you dig into the details' of the trade deal between the US and EU Trump and his US team were beaming from ear to ear, their thumbs up. Von der Leyen and her folks had rictus grins on their faces, almost looking as though theyd been taken hostage. As European anger mounts, its not just the agreement thats in danger of unravelling. So is von der Leyens career. Its easy to see why her job is now hanging by a thread when you dig into the details. The deal allows the US to slap 15 per cent tariffs on most EU goods exported to the US. Thats certainly less than the 30 per cent Trump once threatened. But a lot more than the average of 5 per cent tariffs on EU exports at the start of the year, before Trump returned to the Oval Office. More importantly, most American exports to the EU will face zero tariffs. Thats right. Fifteen per cent on those goods heading west across the Atlantic, nothing on those coming the other way. Its not exactly quid pro quo. Moreover, though the details remain unclear, its likely EU steel, aluminium and pharmaceuticals could face much more than 15 per cent tariffs. The humiliation does not end there. The EU also agreed to spend $600billion (450billion) in America, including on the purchase of US military equipment, for no other reason than it pleases Trump. Theres worse. The EU also promised to import over the next three years $750billion-worth of US liquefied natural gas (LNG). Thus did Brussels, the great proponent of all things Net Zero, abase itself before The Donald by agreeing to purchase massive quantities of US fossil fuel. No wonder hes smiling. At huge expense, the EU encouraged a European-wide rundown of the continents fossil fuel industries because of its messianic belief that renewables were the future. Now its committed to importing vast quantities of fossil fuel from America at even greater expense. Of course, theres a lot of smoke and mirrors in all this. The European Commission has no power to buy military equipment nor instruct EU member states how to do so. 'Though Starmer is prepared to exploit Brexit when its to our advantage, his heart lies in ever closer ties with the EU,' writes Andrew Neil. Pictured: Donald Trump and Sir Keir Starmer boarding Air Force One Nor does it import energy or dictate to member states what energy they should import. But Brussels has signed up to all this and Trump will be assiduous in checking if it delivers. The trade deal was especially galling for Brussels because its not as good as the one Britain managed to strike with Trump, in which the base tariff for exports to the US is only 10 per cent. This has upset the Euro elite no end. After all, Britain was widely predicted to lose out in all manner of areas when it lost the collective clout of the EU, which suddenly doesnt look all its cracked up to be. Even Jonathan Reynolds, the anti-Brexit Business Secretary in an anti-Brexit government led by an anti-Brexit Prime Minister, admitted yesterday he was in no doubt Brexit had allowed the UK to strike a better deal. Wonders never cease. Some European leaders are at a loss to work out why von der Leyen didnt negotiate harder. But what did she have to negotiate with? The EU runs a massive $220billion trade surplus with America. Last year more than 20 per cent of its global exports went to the US. It had most to lose if the talks had turned sour and Trump had levied penal tariffs. The EU is stagnating. A trade war with America would likely have tilted it into a recession. It makes you wonder why British politicians didnt play similar hardball during the Brexit talks. After all, 14 per cent of EU exports go to Britain not as much as goes to America but a massive chunk nevertheless. And, of course, we run a huge trade deficit with the EU. So the EU had a lot to lose in the Brexit talks just as it had a lot to lose in the current talks with Trump. Yet at no stage did a British prime minister ever try to leverage that fact in anything like the plain-speaking manner Trump has just employed. Instead the Brexit negotiations got off to a terrible start with the hapless, feeble Theresa May and never really recovered. From then on we seemed reconciled to punishment-beating and made no attempt to assert our strengths. It was the signal failure of the British political establishment in modern times, from which Brexit has suffered ever since. By the time our negotiators discovered their bottle (after Boris Johnson won the 2019 General Election by a landslide) it was too late. The deal was effectively done, the punishment beating complete. Trump said at the time that our negotiating tactics had been pathetic. But we ignored him. There are times when it is right to disparage Trump. Plenty of times. But there are also times when its wise to emulate him. This was one of them. We failed, to our lasting loss. This wont change under Keir Starmer. He flew to Scotland yesterday to see Trump, for, truth be told, there are still a lot of loose ends to be tied up in the UKs trade deal with America, which is always the way with Trump. We are still seeking clarity on long-term US tariffs on British steel, aluminium and pharmaceuticals, just like the Europeans. Moreover, though Starmer is prepared to exploit Brexit when its to our advantage, his heart lies in ever closer ties with the EU. There was a time when Britain prospered mightily for being enmeshed with the EU. But that was a long while ago. Why Starmer is still so desperate to tether us once again to a trading bloc in relentless economic decline one that cant even negotiate a decent trade deal with America is just one of the many mysteries of his floundering premiership. The first many people knew of the Online Safety Act was when it was used to prevent users on X from viewing images from an anti-immigration protest in Yorkshire at the weekend. After a demonstration outside the Britannia Hotel in Leeds on Friday, users claimed the website blocked footage of police detaining activists. They were instead shown the message: 'Due to local laws, we are temporarily restricting access to this content until X estimates your age.' These laws, which entered into force at midnight on Friday, require online platforms to protect their young customers from 'non-trivial psychological harm' including pornography as well as other material that relates to self-harm, eating disorders or suicide. Thousands of sites offering adult content, as well as popular social media apps including X, Reddit and TikTok, have now introduced new age checks for UK users to comply. But it is now clear that the word 'harm' is being interpreted in the widest possible way. Were we told at the time that images of violent arrests would be censored? Did MPs point out, as the Bill was being debated, that it was precisely the kind of measure that was certain to have unintended consequences? Did ministers admit at the Dispatch Box that, yes, a future government might use it to control our social media feeds because it was unable to control our borders? Actually, yes, one MP did, though she gets scant recognition for it today. Kemi Badenoch protested in 2022 that 'the Bill is in no fit state to become law'. She was fighting her first (and unsuccessful) leadership election, and she was quite unequivocal: 'If I'm elected Prime Minister I will ensure the bill doesn't overreach. We should not be legislating for hurt feelings.' She was attacked from all sides for her pains and called a friend to terrorism and suicide and porn and Heaven knows what else. Naturally, Labour MPs led the charge. 'Hurt feelings?! By dropping this Bill you're endangering children, making it easier for terrorists to plot, and enabling bad state actors to interfere with the security and governance of the UK,' said the Welsh MP Alex Davies-Jones, in a classic example of the moralistic and bullying tone adopted by supporters of the Bill. The entry into force of the law has seen a 1,800 per cent rise in use of virtual private networks (VPNs), which route a phone or computer's internet traffic to another country, thereby getting around the new age verification checks Science Secretary Peter Kyle said Nigel Farage would have been on the side of Jimmy Savile after Farage said Reform would scrap the Online Safety Act should they win the next general election Savile is one of Britain's most notorious paedophiles who used his power and influence to abuse hundreds of children Or take Peter Kyle, Labour's Science Secretary, who suggested that anyone who opposes the act such as Reform's Nigel Farage is somehow allied with paedophiles like the late Jimmy Savile, 'extreme pornographers' and those who 'peddle hate and violence'. Kyle added: 'Farage is saying that he's on their side, not the side of children.' Ah, yes, the children. Let's, for a moment, think of them. Specifically, let's think about the adolescents at whom this law is supposedly aimed. Yes, it is a noble aim to stop this demographic accessing harmful material. But one thing that we will immediately notice about them is that, as a group, they are enormously tech savvy. Online age-verification laws may cause inconvenience to older users, but they will present no obstacle to teenagers. The entry into force of the law has seen a 1,800 per cent rise in use of virtual private networks (VPNs), which route a phone or computer's internet traffic to another country. Did our MPs, as they pushed this measure through, truly imagine that it would stop kids accessing inappropriate sites? I very much doubt it. But, with Alex Davies-Jones and Peter Kyle swooning in horror, it was easier to go along with the pretence. Precisely to anticipate the digital fluency of the younger generation, the Bill places the burden of proof on the tech companies. It is no longer enough for them to ask users to declare their age or agree to terms of service. Online platforms are now expected to use tools like facial age estimation, ID scans or credit card or mobile phone checks. And they have every reason to take their duties seriously, since failure to comply can result in a fine of 18 million or 10 per cent of global turnover, whichever is the greater. Again, though, does anyone seriously imagine that such measures will come between teenage boys and their porn? Just as people of my age had fake ID cards to get into pubs before their 18th birthdays, so young people today have digital equivalents, such as AI-generated driving licences. The late Christopher Booker, an occasional contributor to the Mail, coined a phrase to describe laws like this: 'Using a sledgehammer to miss a nut.' The Online Safety Act is a textbook example of that phenomenon. Will it prevent teenagers accessing sites that encourage self-harm or suicide or terrorism? Alas, no. Will it inconvenience everyone else? Yes, in three ways. First, many platforms are contracting out the age-verification process to private companies. Who knows what these companies will then do with the data they have collected? Second, many online firms including, by the look of it, X have concluded that the only way to protect themselves legally is to treat everyone as a child until they have evidence to the contrary. This is likely to become a default position across the internet. Free expression will suffer in consequence. Third, Britain has fallen further behind in the tech race. As if our prohibitive commercial energy prices were not bad enough, we have signalled to every online company that we are uncomfortable with the freedom and experimentation that lead to innovation. Our recent divergence from the over-regulated EU is over. We are happy to be the land of the meek and the home of the safe. There is now a belated backlash against the legislation. As I write, 396,000 people have signed a petition calling for it to be repealed. But we are, as so often as a nation, waking up too late. The time to complain was when the Bill was clanking its way through the tubes and chambers of Parliament. Instead, MPs went along with all the false logic that accompanies these moral panics. Here is a problem. A problem requires us to be seen to act. Here is an action. Bingo! In fact, the only laws that would have the impact claimed by supporters of these proposals would be Chinese or North Korean in their severity. Even Sir Keir Starmer has not proposed a general crackdown on internet freedom though I don't want to put ideas in his head. No, the primary responsibility here, as usual, is with families. Parents need to keep an eye on what their kids are doing and the easiest way to do that is to monitor their screen time. Many mothers, encouraged by the brilliant New York psychologist Jonathan Haidt, are agreeing not to give their children smartphones in their early teens a movement that requires buy-in from the entire peer-group. Most private schools and an increasing number of state schools are going the same way. Now for a hard thing that needs saying. No system is perfect. Whatever the rules say, some kids will access vile videos. Regardless of the law, some young people will take their lives. I suspect most MPs know it. But passing this draconian law at least allows them, when such tragedies inescapably happen, to say that they personally can't be blamed. That, alas, is how we have structured the incentives for our politicians. In our periodic fits of moral panic, we get the laws we deserve. They might make us less happy, less wealthy and less free. But at least we showed the world that we were thinking of the children. A psychic who has correctly predicted a string of huge global events has given an ominous forecast on the future of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's relationship. Athos Salome, 38, from Brazil, is often referred to as the 'Living Nostradamus' due to his numerous accurate predictions - including his forecasting of the coronavirus pandemic, Queen Elizabeth II's death and the Microsoft global outage. Now, he's making a serious forecast about Harry and Meghan's marriage, telling the Daily Mail he believes there will be a 'significant emotional' distance between the couple in the next few years. The couple have been married for seven years, tying the knot in an extravagant royal wedding at St George's Chapel in Windsor in May 2018. Since then, they have stepped back as working members of the royal family and relocated to Montecito, California, with their two children. And according to Salome, the next couple of years will not be smooth sailing. 'Between 2026 and 2027, there will be a significant emotional distancing between the couple,' Salome told the Daily Mail exclusively. 'The energetic compatibility between Meghan and Harry would begin to dissipate, influenced by external tensions and divergent projects.' Athos Salome, 38, from Brazil, is often referred to as the 'Living Nostradamus' due to his numerous accurate predictions - including his forecasting of the coronavirus pandemic, Queen Elizabeth II's death and the Microsoft global outage Harry and Meghan have been married for seven years, tying the knot in an extravagant royal wedding at St George's Chapel in Windsor in May 2018 'Between 2026 and 2027, there will be a significant emotional distancing between the couple,' Salome told the Daily Mail exclusively But despite what he sees as some relationship trouble, the psychic predicted that the two will never actually split. 'This has been happening for some time, but contracts prevent absolute separation,' he said. Meghan's friends denied rumors early this year that she had been approached about a book deal detailing a potential divorce. And a few years ago Vanity Fair claimed in a bombshell article that Meghan's team had a conversation with a publishing house about a book which was intended to be written 'post-divorce'. The potential manuscript was not meant to detail Meghan's experience with her former husband of three years, producer Trevor Engelson, but that with her second spouse Harry. It was not based on current events in Meghan's life, but set to take place in the event of a separation between the Duke and Duchess. However, Meghan's friends shut down the claims, with one knowledgeable source saying: 'If that's true to any degree, she would have been approached and not vice versa.' Additional separation rumors swirled last year when Harry was seen carrying out multiple public engagements without his wife. Meghan's friends denied rumors early this year that she had been approached about a book deal detailing a potential divorce from Harry But despite what he sees as some relationship trouble, the psychic predicted that the couple will never actually split Salome's prediction of couple trouble comes after the launch of Meghan's lifestyle brand and Netflix series, her first major projects since leaving the royal family. Shortly after With Love, Meghan premiered, she released the first products from her As Ever brand, which was previously called American Riviera Orchard. She had teased the brand for over a year, sending homemade jams in 2024 to famous friends including Chrissy Teigen and Kris Jenner. The products, which included a raspberry spread, shortbread cookie mix and edible flower sprinkles, sold out within a half hour of going live - but received a less than glowing review from the Daily Mail's FEMAIL team. Customers looking to buy the jam have had to wait months, as nothing has been restocked. But in a recent Instagram post, the Duchess promised that some new products were coming soon. Meghan's tease of a product restock comes as she was accused of 'treating everyone like idiots' after she shared a social media clip of a scene that didn't make her Netflix show. In the video, filmed in a rented $8 million mansion near her and Harry's Montecito home, Meghan was joined by wellness therapist Randi Karin as she explained how to properly cut a pineapple. Meghan said: 'A trick that people do with pineapple instead of just cutting it. To make the perfect little bite, you follow the wedge. The products, which included a raspberry spread, shortbread cookie mix and edible flower sprinkles, sold out within a half hour of going live - but received a less than glowing review from the Daily Mail's FEMAIL team In a recent video, Meghan was joined by wellness therapist Randi Karin as she explained how to properly cut a pineapple 'Nature has given you all the cues on how to have a perfect taste of something.' She then cut around the pattern on the outside of the pineapple, and used the skin to pull out a chunk of the fruit before taking a bite. However, royal watchers thought Meghan was just stating the obvious. Others noted the 'trick' has been around for years and regularly circulates on social media platforms such as Facebook and Pinterest. She's the daughter of one of Hollywood's most famous heartthrobs, and fans can't get over just how much she looks like him. Ella Bleu Travolta, 25, is the only daughter of Grease and Pulp Fiction star John Travolta, and her resemblance to her famous father has only grown more striking with age. From her piercing blue eyes to that signature Travolta smile, Ella is the spitting image of John during his leading man heyday. But Ella isn't just another celebrity nepo child riding on her parents' fame. She's carving out a career of her own in music, film and fashion. Born in April 2000 to John and the late actress Kelly Preston, Ella grew up in the spotlight alongside older brother Jett and younger brother Benjamin. Tragically, Jett passed away in 2009 following a seizure during a family holiday in the Bahamas. Ella started acting when she was just a kid, and she made her big screen debut in 2009's Old Dogs, starring opposite both her parents. Ella Bleu Travolta, 25, is the only daughter of Grease and Pulp Fiction star John Travolta, and her resemblance to her famous father has only grown more striking with age From her piercing blue eyes to that signature Travolta smile, Ella is the spitting image of John during his leading man heyday Born in April 2000 to John and the late actress Kelly Preston, Ella grew up in the spotlight alongside older brother Jett and younger brother Benjamin She later appeared in The Poison Rose in 2019 and recently wrapped filming Get Lost, a modern-day reimagining of Alice in Wonderland. However, it's music where she seems to have really found her niche. In 2022, she released her debut single Dizzy, followed by tracks No Thank You and Little Bird. The latter song is a moving tribute to her mother, who passed away in 2020 after battling breast cancer. 'Little Bird is about holding onto those pure relationships that you have with people that you lost and really just listening to yourself and staying true to that relationship with that person,' Ella told People. 'It's sort of the viewpoint of a mama bird talking to a baby bird and just not letting any other interference get in between it, because your true instincts were there all along.' She continued: 'It had been a couple years, obviously, since my mom's passing, so I could look at the whole situation and take a step back from it and see what I wanted to communicate on it and what I wanted to communicate to her and what I was feeling in general.' She's also made waves in the fashion world, landing the cover of Hunger Magazine in 2024, wearing a vintage Chanel look previously worn by Taylor Swift at a Kansas City Chiefs game, per Page Six. But Ella isn't just another celebrity nepo child riding on her parents' fame. She's carving out a career of her own in music, film, and fashion Ella has been spotted in front rows at fashion week in Madrid and Milan. She's seen here at Milan Fashion Week Since then, Ella has been spotted in front rows at fashion week in Madrid and Milan, appearing alongside European royalty like Princess Diana's niece, Lady Kitty Spencer, and Princess Alexandra of Hanover, per Hola. Ella remains close with her dad as John often shares sweet birthday tributes and throwback videos with her on social media. In a recent birthday post, he called his daughter 'gracious, generous, funny, beautiful, kind, and deeply talented.' The actor also loves to celebrate Ella's accomplishments and often posts about her magazine covers and song releases. A German tourist has singled out the foods she's become 'addicted' to since arriving in Australia. Julia Kiehlmann, who is currently based in Brisbane, Queensland, shared a series of viral TikTok videos detailing the foodie finds she can't get enough of in Oz. Many of the meals and snacks highlighted are widely available, affordable and accessible all around Australia. Her latest popular post, titled: 'Food I never knew I neededuntil I moved to Australia' has attracted almost 150,000 views. The slideshow-style video shared to her @julexkhl account sees the 27-year-old highlight four of her favourite locally-found foods - with one of them being an own-brand sweet treat stocked at Woolworths Australia stores. Sharing a picture of the supermarket's bakery section, Julia named 'Woolies cookies' as a standout. 'These cookies are criminally good,' she wrote. The tourist added: 'My favourite is Dreamy Choc Chip, no question'. German tourist Julia Kiehlmann, who is currently travelling around Australia, rated Woolworths Dreamy Choc Chip Cookies, which cost only $3.80 for a 5 pack, as among her favourite food finds down under Julia Kiehlmann, 27, recently posted a viral TikTok video to her @julexkhl account that highlighted her favoruite foodie finds while visiting Australia Woolworths Dreamy Choc Chip Cookies are sold in a five-pack for $3.80, equating to 76 cents per cookie. Many commenters agreed that the major Aussie supermarket produced 'elite' bargain cookies. 'Yesss the Woolies cookies,' read one excited reply, while others recommended she also check out the store's Anzac variety. Julia's next foodie pick was acai bowls. The tourist said she'd spotted stores selling the cool treat on practically 'every corner' and could easily eat 'one daily'. The smoothie-like dish is made from frozen acai berries and comes topped with fruits and granola. 'Acai is from Brazil, but here in Australia there are more [stores] than in Brazil,' replied one person in the video comments. Other acai lovers agreed they too wished they could eat the 'guilty pleasure' everyday - with some noting that the prolific nature of acai bowl stores in Australia was a relatively new phenomenon. The next food find on Julia's local list was Aussie-originated takeaway spot, Fishbowl. Julia said she was surprised to find stores selling acai bowls on practically 'every corner' in Australian cities The tourist's TikTok video highlighted Australian-originated store Fishbowl as a favourite. The takeaway chain is renowned for their signature salad and protein poke bowls, like The O.G. (right) 'Sushi? Salad? Both? Whatever it is I'm addicted' Julia wrote in the post. The healthy takeaway chain store is renowned for their signature salad and protein poke bowls and has locations in Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales. But it was Julia's final Aussie food find that really ignited the comments section of her post: the Aussie cob loaf dip. Julia wrote: 'Cob loaf. Who invented this? And how do I thank them personally?' Many of the comments praised the tourist's inclusion of the scooped out round bread filled with creamy cheesy dip, which is often served at social gatherings like parties and picnics. The traveller added in the comments that it was a unique food that she'd never come across in any other country. 'Cob loaf should be our national dish,' confirmed one Aussie's reply to the video. Another added: 'Always have to bring at least two to a BBQ because the first one gets demolished in seconds.' The perennial Aussie party favourite cob loaf - comprised of a hollowed cob bread loaf filled with creamy cheesy dip - was among the best things the tourist had tasted in Australia Overall, many replies from Aussies praised the German tourist for putting together a 'good list' of beloved Australian-found foods. 'Shhh don't tell anyone we like to keep this stuff to ourselves,' one replied. However a few commenters felt the visitor had missed a couple of crucial must-tries. One recommended that Julia next sample Vegemite, avocado and cheese on toast. 'Trust me,' they said. Another was surprised at a glaring omission, writing: 'No Bunnings snag?' On the subject of Woolies, in addition to their cookies, several commenters recommended the tourist next needed to give the 'iconic' Woolworths Mud Cake a whirl. 'Dare I say, just as good as the cookies,' read one recommendation. A woman has revealed insight into the process of having lip filler dissolved - and admitted that she was left looking 'botched'. Georgia Goldstein travelled to Hart Medical in Westminster, London, a few months ago to undergo the procedure. While she said that it was 'the best thing I've ever done', the process wasn't pain-free and left her lips looking swollen. Taking to TikTok, she said, 'A few months ago, I got all my lip filler dissolved, and it was the best thing I've ever done. She went on to share images from throughout the process, adding, 'Trigger warning, my face looked butters [ugly].' Georgia explained that, when the aesthetician put the dissolver in her lips, they swelled drastically. 'Like, imagine, I have to go into work right now and they [her lips] look botched,' she said while showing her bloated lips to the camera. She continued to show photographs from throughout the process, saying, 'This was pretty much just after going into work and this was the next day, my lips were black, like you can see in this video, they were so, so bruised.' Georgia Goldstein (pictured) from London has revealed what happened when she had her lip filler dissolved - and admitted that she was left looking 'botched' Georgia added, 'I even tried covering them up with makeup, and it was just all black above my lips.' The content creator said her lips then 'shrunk', making her feel 'really young', she said, adding, 'And they also went really wrinkly.' One week later, the bruising had gone, she said. At the end of the process, Georgia went for an ultrasound to check if there was any filler left in her lips, before concluding that getting her fillers dissolved was the 'best thing ever.' Viewers took to the comment section to share their thoughts on the end result, and one wrote, 'Great more natural result, love.' A second added, 'Trust the process hun.' While a third user said, 'Look so much better. Love them!' A fourth commented on Georgia going into work immediately after getting them dissolved, saying 'Honestly the bravery going into work.' It comes after a woman who claims to have the 'world's biggest lips' revealed what she looked like before undergoing drastic surgery and getting copious amounts of lip filler. Andrea Ivanova from Bulgaria regularly hits the headlines due to her enhanced appearance, which has seen her fork out an estimated 20,000 on lip filler alone after starting her transformation in 2018. Georgia still went to work the day after getting her lip filler dissolved, despite the bruising and swelling Georgia said that getting her filler dissolved is the 'best thing' she's done - and that she 'highly recommends' it to others The 27-year-old has previously admitted she struggles to find love because of her dramatic look, but it hasn't stopped her from achieving her goal of having the biggest lips and cheeks in the world. Now, she has revealed what she looked like before altering her face via cosmetic enhancements. In her 'before' photos, a youthful Andrea can be seen with regularly proportioned lips. But since undergoing her enhancement journey, she has become scarcely recognisable. Her long list of treatments included chin shaping, enlargement and lengthening, jaw shaping and lip augmentation, as well as cheekbone enhancement - all at once. She's previously spoken about how she likes to stand out from the crowds with her unique look. 'I like exaggerated things like huge lips, a face with many fillers, heavy and eccentric make-up, Andrea said. 'I don't like boring ordinary appearances and I am a fan of huge shapes and eccentric beauties. Natural beauty is boring to me so I decided to change my appearance radically.' The social media influencer has spoken openly about having had six procedures done in a single day as an 'experiment' - even though her usual doctor refused to do it. Viewers took to the comment section to share their thoughts on the process - and one said Georgia's lips 'look so much better' 'My doctor was afraid to inject more hyaluronic acid into my lips, but I was adamant that I wanted more, and I will not stop,' Andrea said. 'I wanted to do six procedures at once. Until now, I always did these on different areas of the face on different days.' Andrea had previously only ever had a maximum of three needles in her face at the same time. 'But this time, I wanted to experiment with myself to see how many injections and [amounts of filler] would affect my body,' she said. She even had to seek out a doctor in Germany to do the procedures, which went ahead in February last year, as her usual surgeon simply refused. And even though Andrea was excited about the experience, she confessed it had been extremely painful. 'I have pain all over my face right now and my jaw and chin hurt a lot,' she said at the time. 'It's hard for me to smile because of the pain in my cheekbones and there's a pulling sensation over my face.' But Andrea insisted the feeling was normal after treatment because the 'filler hadn't settled into place'. Although she finds eating difficult, Andrea is adamant her lips 'don't hurt'. She added: 'I only feel a slight discomfort, but that's where I have the most amount of filler and where I've had injections the most amount of times. The more filler there is, the less the area hurts.' Despite the pain, Andrea doesn't have any plans to slow down or reduce her voluptuous look. The former philosophy student planned to go to Germany to visit the same surgeon, as her usual doctor is sceptical about going forward with her transformation. But now even the German medical practitioner has revealed their concerns. 'I had no fears about having so many injections at once because I trust my doctor and they are a great professional in cosmetic surgery,' she said. 'But they are afraid I'll get necrosis and have to have the tissue surgically removed from my lips if I carry on.' Necrosis is the death of body tissue, which occurs when not enough blood flows to the site, according to the NHS. This condition can be caused by radiation, chemicals or injury, and in some cases can be fatal. 'There are risks involved, such as inflammation, and raised body temperature, especially with so much at once,' Andrea added. 'I have facial swelling and bruising right now, which is normal due to the many needles, but I think in a few days, I'll recover.' She continued: 'You shouldn't judge people for their looks. It's their taste and no one has the right to be offended because of it. 'I think I'm going to carry on doing multiple injections in one day going forward, as it makes me very happy.' A new mom has shared the shockingly high cost of giving birth in America - and it's well over six figures. Emily Fisher, 36, from Columbus, Ohio, welcomed twin girls last month and was left stunned when she saw an insurance claim come through for her delivery that was over $10,000. Completely shocked by the immense figure, she decided to go back and total up all the bills she had received over the course of her pregnancy to determine just how much having a baby in the US really costs. And after adding everything up, Emily found that having her baby girls would have cost her a whopping $120,527.51 had she not had insurance. She shared her findings in a video shared to TikTok earlier this month and it quickly went viral, leaving thousands across the globe just as surprised as she was. 'So I am five weeks postpartum with twin girls and I've been seeing a lot of headlines recently about how the birth rate in America is declining and how concerning that is,' Emily began in the video. 'I thought to myself, I could think of a lot of reasons why the birth rate might be declining. First and foremost, cost. 'So I decided to take it upon myself and look at every bill that I received over the course of my pregnancy and total what it costs to deliver twins in America.' Emily Fisher, 36, welcomed twin girls last month and was left stunned when she totaled up her bills and realized giving birth would have cost her $120,527.51 had she not had insurance Emily added that on top of that, her newborns both received bills for their delivery - Baby A received a bill for $15,124.55 and Baby B was billed $14,875.55 Emily explained that she is considered 'advanced maternal age' and was pregnant with 'dichorionic diamniotic twins' which made her pregnancy 'high risk.' In addition, about halfway through the pregnancy her doctor raised concerns about potential 'fetal growth restriction,' so from about 22 weeks on she had to have two appointments every week with her OBGYN and a maternal fetal medicine specialist to make sure the babies were healthy. 'So what was the total cost of that? From the start of my pregnancy through delivery and me walking out of those hospital doors, the total bill for my care was $120,527.51,' she said in the video. 'Now I am very fortunate great insurance and I have a low deductible so over the course of my pregnancy out of pocket I paid $2,038.70. 'I know that is relatively good but still, $2,000 for something that is considered necessary and vital to the future of America is pretty significant.' Emily added that on top of that, her newborns both received bills for their delivery. 'It's kind of funny, they're not even able to blink yet and they've already been billed more than the total cost of my student loans,' she continued. 'Baby A received a bill for $15,124.55 and Baby B was billed $14,875.55, I guess there was some sort of sibling discount. She added, 'The total cost I owed for those two bills was $750, which was the cost of my deductible.' The bills are seen above Emily shared her findings in a video shared to TikTok earlier this month and it quickly went viral, leaving thousands across the globe just as surprised as she was 'The total cost I owed for those two bills was $750, which was the cost of my deductible.' She then broke down what some of the highest costs were during the pregnancy. Unsurprisingly, the delivery itself and the hospital stay afterwards was the most costly expense. Emily explained that she had a scheduled C-section at 37 weeks and spent four days in the hospital post delivery, and the total cost of her care before insurance was $65,665.50. The second highest cost during the pregnancy was an appointment she had about seven months in, during which she complained to her doctor that she was having headaches. She said they took her blood pressure and it was slightly elevated, so they monitored the heart rate of the babies for 20 minutes to 'make sure they were okay.' She was then given 'two extra strength Tylenol' and they 'did some blood work.' 'The cost that was billed to my insurance for that visit was $9,115,' shared the new mom. 'All things considered, I'm very grateful for the experience that I had and very grateful to have great insurance, but I know that for a lot of people who live in America that is simply not possible,' she concluded. 'And if I did not have insurance delivery my two baby girls, I would not be able to afford it. 'In fact, I probably would have had to file bankruptcy had I not had insurance. So when people act confused why the birth rates are down, maybe it's not necessarily all attributed to lifestyle choices, maybe it's not because people aren't feeling the vibe of having kids, maybe it's because the cost of having a baby in America is over six figures.' Out of pocket she paid in total $2,038.70, and she said she's 'grateful' that she had good insurance While chatting with the Daily Mail about it, Emily, who used to work on the healthcare space, said she believes the insurance system in America 'needs a complete overhaul.' 'Given that the US is the one of (if not the only) developed nation in the world without some sort of universal healthcare, we're falling behind,' she said. 'People are spending too much on basic and necessary care. Medical debt is one of the number one reasons for bankruptcy in the US, and it shouldn't be that way. 'If we invested in a system that put the health its people first, everyone would be better off. 'And given the decline in birth rates, if our politicians are genuinely concerned about falling birth rates, they would be incentivizing people to have children. You shouldn't have to pay to give birth.' She added that while she was 'shocked' by the high number that her insurance was billed, she was 'not surprised at the same time.' 'The first thing that came to mind when I saw the total was, "How do people without insurance afford this?"' she shared. 'But I've always known that healthcare in America is a business. Ultimately, like most necessities in the US, privatized insurance is designed to make money.' She said she certainly wasn't expecting her video, which was viewed more than one million times, to get as much attention as it did, but she's so glad that it has sparked a conversation. 'I hope my video makes people think twice about having kids in America. Because until the system is redesigned to truly support the people, we shouldn't be buying into it,' she concluded. 'I'm fortunate to have good health coverage. I'm not on the hook for much as far as the cost of my pregnancy, but that is only the beginning for my family and what we'll pay to raise my kids. 'Now we have to think about things like paying for their health coverage, daycare, food, housing and college. 'All of these things are only getting more and more expensive and almost unreachable for people.' The ex-wife of political pundit Robby Soave has broken her silence after the Rising host publicly announced his engagement to his gay lover last week. Carrie Soave was married to Robby, her high school sweetheart, for almost a decade until they quietly divorced last year. Last week, Robby, who turns 37 next month, shocked the Washington D.C. social set when he abruptly announced that he was engaged to his new boyfriend, a Taiwanese-American med student named Jie Jung Shih. Publicly, Carrie has kept a low profile since Robby's proclamation, but the HR specialist finally addressed the scandal in an exclusive statement to DailyMail.com on Tuesday. Carrie, 35, shared that she's 'healing' and has been focused on her new life in Michigan since the dissolution of her nine year marriage. 'I am not as well-known as my former-husband, but I dont need to be. I know exactly who I am and what I am and am not,' she said. 'I am not someone who needs attention and external validation to prove that I am important. Am I loved is a question that I stopped asking myself a long time ago and I think that says a lot about the life I have now,' she continued. Carrie Soave has broken her silence to DailyMail.com after her husband of almost 10 years, Robby Soave, left her and got engaged to his gay lover Robby shocked the Washington D.C. social set last week when he abruptly announced that he was engaged to his new boyfriend, a Taiwanese-American med student named Jie Jung Shih 'The love I have in my life is very real, and the things in it are very fulfilling. I dont ever wonder whether I matter because that is clear to me every day.' Carrie also pushed back against some of the homophobic abuse that Robby has received online since his engagement was announced. 'I firmly believe that people should be defined by their actions and how they regard others and not by sexual preference,' she said. As for the future, Carrie admitted that her divorce had been difficult, but that she was thankful to be moving forward. 'Hurt is real. But so is healing. Divorce is a difficult thing, but it doesnt have to be devastating when you have love and strength behind you,' she said. 'Moving on with my life came with a lot of clarity about myself and I only wish the same for anyone going through it. I am happy that that chapter in my life is closed and Im enjoying the new one I'm in,' she continued. 'I don't need anything else from the world because I already have the people and the things I need to feel whole. For me, that is a true blessing.' Carrie left Washington after her divorce was finalized last year and is now spending time with her family in her home state of Michigan, where she is rebuilding her life from scratch and has opened a consulting business. 'Divorce is a difficult thing, but it doesnt have to be devastating when you have love and strength behind you,' she said in a statement Carrie's full statement I dont know why this conversation is occurring, because it isnt important. This only registered in my life to the extent that people in it, who were there for me through my divorce, did not want to see me hurt by anything further with regard to that situation. For me, the saddest part about this story is that the conversation surrounding it was very hurtful to a lot of people who had nothing to do with it. For that pain, I am very sorry. I firmly believe that people should be defined by their actions and how they regard others and not by sexual preference. I am not as well-known as my former-husband, but I dont need to be. I know exactly who I am and what I am and am not. I am not someone who needs attention and external validation to prove that I am important. Am I loved is a question that I stopped asking myself a long time ago and I think that says a lot about the life I have now. The love I have in my life is very real, and the things in it are very fulfilling. I dont ever wonder whether I matter because that is clear to me every day. Hurt is real. But so is healing. Divorce is a difficult thing, but it doesnt have to be devastating when you have love and strength behind you. Moving on with my life came with a lot of clarity about myself and I only wish the same for anyone going through it. I am happy that that chapter in my life is closed and Im enjoying the new one Im in. I dont need anything else from the world because I already have the people and the things I need to feel whole. For me, that is a true blessing. Advertisement This comes after Carrie issued a private statement to her close friends on Instagram earlier this week, which was obtained by DailyMail.com. In the emotional post, Carrie admitted that she hadn't looked at her ex-husband's engagement photos and wanted to keep it that way 'for her own peace.' 'I have really tried to handle this with as much care and grace as I can muster,' she told her friends and family. 'Being early in the first wave of divorce for my peers, I wanted to set a tone that is respectful and dignified - two things that I believe everyone deserves, no matter what,' she continued. Taking the high road, Carrie also spoke out against the 'bigotry, cruelty and vitriol' that had been sent Robby's way online. Due to Robby's prominence in conservative media, the libertarian pundit has received waves of homophobic abuse from right wing trolls since going public with his same-sex relationship. 'The online world is not real life, but it contains real people and I am so sorry to anyone who felt hurt, unseen, or disrespected in the wake of this,' Carrie wrote. 'Please hear me - you matter, you are valuable and loved and you deserve care and respect,' she continued. 'I am sorry if this reopened wounds or brought ugliness into your feed or your heart. And I mean that for the two people in the post too. I would never want to inflict anyone with that kind of pain.' Robby is best known as the co-host of The Hill's morning show Rising, as well as for his regular appearances on Fox News and his role as a senior editor at the libertarian magazine Reason. Soave proposed to his lover in Sicily with a Tiffany & Co. ring Carrie said that she refuses to look at ex-husband Robbie's engagement post and is taking some time offline to focus on her new life back home in Michigan Last week, he shocked his followers when he abruptly announced his engagement to male med student Jie Jung Shih. Soave popped the question with a Tiffany and Co. ring over candles and champagne in Taormina, Sicily, while the pair were on a romantic getaway together. Announcing the news on X, formerly Twitter, he wrote, 'Some personal news from my Sicily trip earlier this month, in case anyone missed it: I got engaged!' There was no mention of Soave's longtime wife Carrie, who he celebrated his ninth anniversary with in Positano, Italy, back in October, 2023. Robby and Carrie were high school sweethearts who went on their first date back in 2004. The Rising host often posted photos with Carrie on Instagram, and was never shy when it came to gushing about their marriage. The former couple's split has become the talk of the town all throughout Washington, D.C. Robby and Carrie haven't posted together since their ninth wedding anniversary in October, 2023 In a 2019 post, he wrote, 'Today, five years ago, @carriesoave and I got married, following just over 10 years of dating that began when we were in high school and continued through college and after. 'Despite having to spend years and years and years apart from each other, we always knew where we wanted to end up: Together. I love you so much babe!' While celebrating their wedding anniversary in 2023, Soave gushed, 'Could not be more overjoyed to celebrate nine years married to @carriesoave! 'The most wonderful woman on earth, and the love of my life. Of course it's actually been a lot longer we fell in love as high schoolers in the early 00s. There's no one else I'd rather travel the world with. Italy is almost as beautiful as you!' The former couple were often seen out at events in Washington, D.C., and would dress up together on Halloween. Robby hasn't posted anything with Carrie since their ninth wedding anniversary in late 2023. Robby is best known as the host of The Hill's morning show Rising as well as for his many appearances on Fox News Last fall, Carrie officially left D.C. to return home to Michigan to be with her family and to open a consulting business. Discussing her move with the Grosse Pointe News in March, Carrie said, 'My family is here and I'd been wanting to come back.' DailyMail.com hears that the Soaves' split has been the talk of the town in D.C.'s social circles since the news got out. While some are happy to see Robby out of the closet, the overwhelming sympathy is with Carrie, who was with Robby for 17 years before fleeing D.C. for a 'fresh start' in Michigan after their divorce was finalized. Others have said that Robby's sexuality has been part of the D.C. gossip mill for years, so few people were surprised to see him end up with a man. One insider said, 'He's acting like we should all be celebrating his engagement less than a year after his breakup with Carrie!' They added, 'Everyone here in D.C. is talking about it and none of it's good.' Robby hasn't shared much about his relationship to fiance Shih, but he did tell Politico that they met at a bar on U Street in D.C. and that it was 'love at first sight.' DailyMail.com contacted Robby and Carrie for comment. Since publicly sharing his engagement, Soave has been inundated with cruel and often homophobic comments from his followers. 'The amount of extremely homophobic comments this is getting is truly astounding and disgusting,' wrote one person. 'Why can't people just be happy for other people's happiness? The haters had no call to spew their irrational hatred like that. Very disappointed. Idiots never stop to amaze.' One insider said, 'He's acting like we should all be celebrating his engagement less than a year after his breakup with Carrie!' Despite the backlash, Soave has received support from a number of other prominent political pundits, including former Rising co-hosts Kim Iversen and Ryan Grim. 'Congratulations Robby! Wishing you both many great years ahead!' Iversen gushed. Soave is a decorated journalist who made it onto Forbes' 30 under 30 list in 2016. He's published two books, is a regular on Fox News and is currently the longest-serving co-host on Rising, which is one of YouTube's biggest political talk shows. His partner Jie Jung Shih is a student at the Georgetown University School of Medicine. Shih is active in the LGBTQ+ community, and was one of a group of med students who volunteered at Capital Pride Festival in Washington last year. Australia's oldest Chinese restaurant will be serving up their signature special fried rice and homemade dim sims for one last time before permanently closing its doors on July 30. Toi Shan Chinese Restaurant in Bendigo announced that it would be shutting for good after more than 70 years. The restaurant's owners, Sai Yoke 'Sue' Wong and her husband Kok Hem 'Peter' Chee, decided to close the restaurant to enjoy their retirement. A notice from Sue and Peter posted in the shopfront window titled 'Thank you and Goodbye' confirmed that they had made 'the incredibly difficult decision to close'. The owners, who are both aged in their early 70s, had reportedly been contemplating retiring for several years but were unable to find anyone suitable to take over. After Toi Shan Chinese closes on July 30, it will later reopen as an Indian restaurant. Sue Wong's family has run the restaurant for the past 20 years after purchasing it in 2003 from its previous owners, the Chan family. Toi Shan's history dates back to 1948, when Allan Chan took over the On Loong cookshop and renamed it the Toi Shan Cafe, referencing the southern Chinese city he was born in. A notice posted in the shop window confirmed that the long-running restaurant would be shutting its doors on July 30 When it was first opened in 1942, Toi Shan was the only other restaurant dining option in Bendigo, besides going to the pub Under the guidance of Allan followed by his brother Victor and eventually his son Philip and their family, the restaurant earnt a reputation as a Bendigo eatery institution. In the 1950s and 1960s, Toi Shan offered Bendigonians their very first taste of exotic cuisine and international flavours. That being said, the dishes served at Toi Shan were altered to suit local tastes and would be classified as an 'Australian Chinese' menu. Some of the top sellers that have been mainstays on the menu for decades include the honey chicken, lemon chicken and of course prawn crackers. Before it was renamed, On Loong's history in Bendigo can be traced to 1892. At that time, the shop was located in the heart of the regional city's 'Chinatown' on Bridge St, before later moving to the store's current location on Mitchell Street in 1942. A recent post in the Bendigo 'Have Your Say' Facebook group about the long-running establishment's closure was met with an outpouring of disappointment and fond memory recollections. 'So sad to see this amazing Bendigo institution closing. Having worked here with 2 generations of the Chans, it's such a shame. Thank you for everything Toi Shan,' read one reply. For over 70 years, Toi Shan has been serving an Australian Chinese menu that delighted locals Some of Toi Shan's top sellers that have been mainstays on the menu for decades, including their Lemon Chicken 'Fabulous food and a nod to our original Chinese Restaurant in Bendigo. You will be sadly missed.' 'Love Toi Shan. Both our families have been going there for decades. Absolutely love their Chinese food. Will be very sadly missed,' added another. 'So sad. It's been there as long as I can remember. My Dad used to take us there when we were kids and have been going there since on occasions for lunch and takeaway,' a third person said. 'Very Sad. Every time I travel to Bendigo over last 40 years it has always been a must go to place. Never once had meal I wasn't happy with,' read a Facebook reply to a separate post about the closure. When Toi Shan first opened its doors in Bendigo, it was the only other dining establishment in town, besides the pub. 'Restaurants like Toi Shan are important because they tell a story about Australia that's unique to their time and place,' Jennifer Wong, co-author of Chopsticks or Fork?, a book and TV series celebrating regional Chinese restaurants, told Good Food. The restaurant was even the subject of a 1991 TV documentary segment on the ABC program, A Big Country. Bendigo has had a thriving Chinese community since the mid-1800s when many migrants inspired by the gold rush era moved to the country town. Today, the town continues to have a vibrant Chinese community, and its history is documented and celebrated in the Golden Dragon Museum in Bendigo. I'll be honest: I've slept with enough commitment-phobic men to know that a 10 out of 10 sexual performance does not guarantee a lasting relationship. Case in point, I once went on a wonderful weekend away in the Blue Mountains with a man who ravished me on a king-sized bed, took me to art galleries, confessed his deepest secrets, hopes and dreams, and even let me win at naked Jenga... ...and then he ghosted me a week later. Yeah. That sucked. So no, the purpose of this article isn't to convince you that one night of toe-curling passion will magically transform your emotionally unavailable situationship into a dreamy Hallmark movie protagonist. But there are little sexual tricks that can tip the scales in your favour. Every so often, something happens between the sheets that's so damn unforgettable that a man doesn't quite know what happened to him. All of a sudden, he's clearing his roster and texting his mother, 'I think I've found my future wife.' I like to call it 'Marry Me' sex - after that viral recipe 'Marry Me Chicken' that supposedly makes men want to propose after one bite... only this version involves a lot less thyme, and a lot more thigh. From experience, I can confirm that a special move can live rent-free in a man's head for years. An ex got back in touch with me only recently - after a few beers, I assume - to say he couldn't stop thinking about 'that thing' I used to do. 'A special move can live rent-free in a man's head for years,' writes columnist Jana Hocking It wasn't anything too groundbreaking, I should add. But it involved being on my knees and plenty of eye contact. Anyway, long story short, he was desperate to give things another go. Luckily I have a good memory, and that boy is no angel, so it was a no from me - but you get the gist. So this week, I asked my friends and followers if they had any 'Marry Me' sex moves in their repertoire that they swear by. And I was surprised to learn they don't always have to involve Olympic-level gymnastics... The six-word whisper During a fairly standard romp, my friend Sophie leaned in close and whispered, 'I want you to ruin me.' She swears her man's entire body stiffened. 'He looked at me like I'd just unlocked something in his brain,' she told me. He sent her flowers the next day and spent the next few months in a lust-fuelled trance. 'I still say it to him on occasions when he's taking too long and I need things to wind up,' Sophie added. It does the trick every time. 'He looked at me like I was unlocking something in his brain,' one woman told Jana The octopus clench One woman told me how, after making her situationship a five-star lasagne for dinner, they ended up in bed together. So far, so good. As things were heating up, she wrapped her legs around him like an octopus clinging on for dear life. 'I locked eyes, clamped down, and didn't move.' Yeah, that sounds a bit odd to me - but apparently her boyfriend was so rattled by the intensity that he upped his game and now they're engaged. I'm glad it worked out for her, but personally I think your mileage may vary with this one. Still, better to be an octopus than a starfish! The soapy A friend of mine stole this move from Reddit and swears by it. After sex and a good hour of fuzzy-wuzzy pillow talk, she fancied round two so hopped into the shower and casually asked if her fling wanted to join her. He followed like a puppy and was amazed when she started to wash his body from top to bottom, inspired by the famous 'soapland' bathhouses in Japan. As she was doing it, he said to her: 'Are you trying to wife me up?' A week later, he invited her to a party with all his friends and introduced her as his new girlfriend. Mission accomplished. The oldest trick in the book One of my Instagram followers suggested this and it immediately rang true. Why? Because no less than three of my closest friends say it worked for them too. Maintain eye contact during sex. That's it. No rehearsed dirty talk, and no elaborate position changes. Just eye contact when the girl is on top. Well, maybe interrupted by the odd orgasmic eye roll. 'It was just intense eye contact while slowly grinding on him,' is how one married woman described the night with her now-husband that changed everything. 'I could feel him trying to read my mind. It freaked him out in the best possible way.' A day later, he texted her: 'It felt like you looked into my soul.' Then he deleted Tinder. Result! The old switcheroo Another follower told me she was habitually submissive in the bedroom, thinking that was what all men wanted. That was until one night she was in bed with a guy she really liked. In a moment of passion, she got on top, grabbed his wrists and said, 'Tonight, you're mine.' He just blinked at her in complete disbelief. Then didn't stop texting her for weeks. And he still brings it up two years later. The backdoor bonus Alright, so you subscribed for this story expecting something really mucky, didn't you? Well, here it is... I specifically asked my male friends and readers about the 'marry me' sex move that made them spellbound by a woman. One particular act came up time and time again. Ladies, it's not for everyone - but please don't shoot the messenger here. Rimming. Men, it seems, lose their minds when a woman goes down on them and lets her tongue drift further south. One fella tells me he was 'shocked in a good way' the first time it happened to him. For weeks, he couldn't stop thinking about it. 'At first I was slightly insecure, like where the hell did she learn that?' he added. But he got over that and says the couple - now married - haven't looked back since. 'It felt both intimate and filthy in the best possible way.' Another man told me: 'As soon as a woman does that, there's no going back. It's that weird combination of being super dirty but also, like, 'I have to marry her.'' In summary... So, what have we learned from all this? When it comes to sex that leads to meaningful relationships, it's not witchcraft. And, generally speaking, it's less about what you do, and more about how you do it. Confidence, enthusiasm, a touch of surprise - that's what gets under a man's skin. Think back to a time when you did something in bed that left a man completely undone. Did he text you nonstop afterwards? Suddenly get sentimental? Say things like, 'You're not like the others,' or 'I've never felt that before'? Bingo. That was your 'Marry Me' move. If you don't have one yet, don't stress. Try the eye contact method, and if that doesn't work, there's always that tongue trick men seem to like. (Sorry!) Aldi shoppers have noticed that a popular snack sold at the budget supermarket has been quietly removed from shelves. Fans of the Food Envy High Protein Vanilla Flavoured Custard Pouch were devastated to discover that the product no longer appeared to be stocked in Aldi stores. An Aldi Australia spokesperson confirmed to FEMAIL that 'ALDIs popular Vanilla Protein Custard Pouch went on sale earlier this year as part of ALDIs Limited Time Only range'. 'As is the nature of ALDIs Limited Time Only range, these products were here for a good time, not a long time!' A search on the Aldi website under the brand listing for Food Envy also shows that there is no longer record of the product. Other Food Envy branded treats like two-packs of Creme Caramel and Strawberry Panna Cotta are still available. But in a small glimmer of hope, the supermarket spokesperson told FEMAIL that they may yet bring the beloved custard snack back. 'Customer favourites have been known to return, so shoppers should keep an eye on our website for information on our Limited Time Only and new product launches to find out if their favourite products are making a return,' the statement read. A conversation about the custard pouch's sudden disappearance was kickstarted on Reddit by a shopper in the popular Aldi Australia thread. An Aldi shopper noticed their favourite pouch, priced at $1.99, no longer appeared to be in stores. The snack became hugely popular after it was featured in several TikTok videos, including one (pictured) by Melbourne foodie @nectoriouspapi A Redditor asked fellow Aldi shoppers whether they knew if the popular custard snack had been discontinued The upset Aussie explained that they had visited 'four different Aldi [stores]' but could no longer find the high protein snack. They explained that it was quite common for the popular high protein custard to be 'out of stock' in stores - but that on those occasions there would still be a 'price tag' visibly displayed on the fridge shelf, along with an empty spot where the product would usually sit. However, the customer became suspicious that the custard pouches had been permanently removed from Aldi stores when there was no longer 'even a space/tag for them' on the refrigerated shelves. In line with the official Aldi statement, commenters chimed in to confirm the unfortunate news that the popular custard had been 'discontinued'. 'They are [gone], sorry,' one apologetically wrote. 'RIP, loved those things,' another added. One commenter, who appeared to have inside intel about Aldi store operations, elaborated further. 'They've been taken off the shelves as part of the quarterly re-merch,' they explained. 'They may likely make a reappearance for a little while in another quarter as many products that are seasonal with Aldi follow this trend.' The custard pouches have been the subject of numerous TikTok videos, praising the protein-rich food as a budget-friendly healthy snack option Other responses shared the original poster's frustration about Aldi's tendency to 'rotate products' out of their stores with one declaring that it 'really sucks when an item you want disappears'. A news update on the store's own Aldi Unpacked feed earlier in the year flagged that the custard was always intended to be a 'Limited Time Only' item. In that news post, the Food Envy Vanilla Protein Custard Pouch 140g, priced at $1.99, was described as a 'high-protein, low cost, convenient' snack. The Reddit thread also made mention of the huge popularity of the Food Envy Custard Pouches after they were highlighted in several TikTok videos for being a great healthy snack option. A post shared by @TheMacroFoodBlogger showed the product in Aldi stores overlaid with the text: 'GYM RATS RUN TO ALDI'. Melbourne foodie @NectoriousPapi also shared a TikTok video about the Aldi custard, declaring it a cheaper alternative to another popular health snack in Paul's Plus+ Protein Vanilla tubs, which are priced at $2.90 and sold at major supermarkets. Princess Diana's brother Earl Spencer has today revealed an unseen photograph of the royal from the 1960s. Charles, 61, who runs his family's estate, Althorp, in Northamptonshire, took to his Instagram page this morning to share the sweet black-and-white image from his childhood with his 279,000 followers. In the snap, the British author and his sister, King Charles' ex wife, who died on 31 August 1997 after a car crash in Paris, are seen proudly displaying their swimming awards by the swimming pool at their childhood home in Sandringham. 'We were never out of that pool,' the Earl revealed in the caption of his post, adding the hashtags 'childhood memories, proud achievement and learning to swim'. Starting his post, he wrote: 'A long ago summer, by the swimming pool at our childhood home, Park House, Sandringham - Diana and I both proudly showing off our swimming badges (sewn onto our swimming costumes). 'These were awarded (sparingly) by Mrs Lansdowne, a fairly terrifying but very gifted swimming instructor, who came to stay each year.' Park House, in the Sandringham estate, is where Diana was born on July 1, 1961, when her family were renting it from Queen Elizabeth II. The royal continued living there until she was aged 14 in 1976 when she moved to her family's stately home Althorp House after her father John inherited his title Earl Spencer. Princess Diana's brother Earl Spencer has today revealed an unseen photograph of the royal from the 1960s, pictured Commenting on Charles' post, royal fans couldn't hide their delight as they thanked the Earl for sharing the previously unseen photograph. 'Thanks for showing us this picture. Your sister is missed every day,' wrote one person. Another said: 'What a magical picture.' A third added: 'Thank you for showing private moments of your childhood with your beautiful Diana. Then she became the countrys most beautiful princess who is so missed.' Charles' post isn't the first time he's delighted royal fans with a photograph of his sister. To mark what would have been her 64th birthday in July, the Earl shared a previously unseen image of the royal that was taken on the occasion of her sixth birthday in 1967. The black-and-white snap posted on Instagram showed Diana enjoying a camel ride at her birthday party. Charles captioned the picture: 'Another July 1st from long ago - 1967, in fact: for Diana's sixth birthday party, my father (standing, left) - to huge excitement - secured the services of Bert the Camel from Peterborough Zoo.' The photo showed the late Earl John Spencer beaming proudly at his youngest daughter Diana, as she flashed a grin at the cameras. Charles, 61, who runs his family's estate, Althorp, in Northamptonshire, took to his Instagram page this morning to share the sweet black-and-white image from his childhood with his 279,000 followers, alongside the above caption Princess Diana and her brother Charles Spencer in London in 1985 Reaction: Commenting on Charles' post, royal fans couldn't hide their delight as they thanked the Earl for sharing the previously unseen photograph Charles's post was flooded with comments from royal fans and well-wishers as they declared the late Princess is 'dearly missed' to this day. 'Happy birthday our precious queen of hearts,' one message read. 'Your soft voice, your unconditional love for people, your grace and elegance is why we will never forget you.' Another person wrote: 'A cherished memory. Your tribute at Althorp helps her live on for all of us.' 'She is absolutely dearly missed,' a third comment read. 'What an inspiration she was and it's unbelievable how much more and more young people relate to her and love her. Her legend and influence keeps growing.' Another noted she looked 'so happy with her siblings and father', while a fifth fan added: 'Happiest birthday in heaven, our beloved Queen! I am still sad you're no longer with us. Eternal rest our lovely Diana.' The post came just days after the Earl shared another Spencer family photo that was taken in 1989 around the time of their father's birthday, when the mother of Prince William and Prince Harry would have been 27. Along with John, the picture featured Charles and Diana's stepmother Raine Spencer, as well as Diana's sisters, Jane and Sarah. They were all stood at the bottom of the stairs of Althorp House, their estate in Northampton that has been in the Spencer family for over 500 years. Charles' post isn't the first time he's delighted royal fans with a photograph of his sister (pictured) Captioning the social media post, Charles wrote: 'Trying to remember what this rather formal family photograph was for - it shows my sisters and brothers in law, flanking my father and stepmother, at the base of the main staircase (in the central hallway, known as the Saloon) at Althrop House in the late 80s. 'Perhaps it was something to do with my fathers 65th birthday, in January 1989? 'Definitely an 80s air to it all. Im always intrigued by interior shots from Althorps past. Those huge candelabra are no longer on the staircase, and the Saloons walls are now white.' Marius Borg Hiby is likely to receive a decision on his indictment by August Marius Borg Hiby is likely to receive a decision on his indictment by next month, the State Attorney has revealed in a new update. Hiby, stepson of the heir to Norway's throne, Crown Prince Haakon, has been under scrutiny since he was repeatedly arrested in 2024 on preliminary charges including rape, bodily harm and criminal damage. State Attorney Sturla Henriksb has stated that, although it's difficult to predict, there will likely be clarity regarding the royal's charges by mid-August, Se og Hr reported. Earlier this month, Oslo police announced charges against Hiby, 28, on multiple counts, including rape, sexual assault and bodily harm after a months-long investigation of a case that involved a 'double-digit' number of alleged victims. Oslo Police Attorney Andreas Kruszewski said Hiby, who is the son of Princess Mette-Marit, was cooperative during police questioning, which is now complete. Evidence in the case was drawn from sources including text messages, witness testimonies and police searches, the police attorney said. The charges included one case of rape involving intercourse and two cases of rape without intercourse, four cases of sexual assault and two cases of bodily harm, Kruszewski said at a news conference. 'I cannot go into further detail about the number of victims in the case beyond confirming that it is a double-digit number,' he said. Marius Borg Hiby (seen with his mother, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, in Norway, 2016) is likely to receive a decision on his indictment by mid-August, State Attorney Sturla Henriksb said In an email, defence attorney Petar Sekulic said Hiby was 'absolutely taking the accusations very seriously, but doesn't acknowledge any wrongdoing in most of the cases - especially the cases regarding sexual abuse and violence.' The palace was quoted by the Norwegian newswire NTB as saying it would not comment while the case winds its way through the 'normal procedures.' The case was top news in Norway, where the royals are popular. Hiby, 28, previously lived with the royal couple and their two children, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus, but now lives in a separate house nearby, according to Sekulic. Hiby remains free pending a possible trial and is entitled to a presumption of innocence until a court rules otherwise. Once known affectionately as 'Little Marius', Hiby grew up in the public eye, enjoying the same wealth and privilege as his royal siblings, although his biological father, Morten Borg, served time in prison for drugs and violent offences. Hiby has acknowledged cocaine use and addiction. Despite allegations, it was reported that Marius partied it up at Cannes Film Festival earlier this summer, according to Se og Hr. Borg Hiby joined Norwegian businessman Per Morten Hansen, who is a good friend of his father, Morten Borg. Pictured from L to R: Queen Sonja, King Harald, Prince Sverre Magnus, Marius Borg Hoiby, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, and Crown Prince Haakon in Oslo, 2022 He was also seen on board the 165-foot motor yacht 'Da Vinci', a speed marvel worth 20 million dollars and owned by entrepreneur and multi-billionaire Vincent Tchenguiz. After his trip at sea, the Crown Princess's son and his pals went to Ile Sainte-Marguerite, a small island off the coast of Cannes. The spot is popular with celebrities such as Elton John, Leonardo DiCaprio, Beyonce, and the Kardashians. They visited the very exclusive and private La Guerite beach club on the island, which can only be reached via boat. Borg Hiby partied with businessman Rehan Syed, who lives a lavish lifestyle featuring fast boats and cars, as seen on his Instagram account. Borg Hiby has largely continued his life as normal since the charges came to light in August last year, and has since jetted off with friends to Hemsedal, Copenhagen and Italy. He spent one week in custody in November after his arrest due to the risk of tampering with evidence, NRK reported at the time. Among those who have come forward is national media personality Linni Meister, who attended a 'castle basement party' of Borg Hiby's, where the 'attack' is said to have taken place; with police reported to have a video clip. The State Attorney stated that a time frame for Marius' charges is difficult to predict (seen in Oslo, 2022) The TV star, 39, reportedly did not remember the alleged assault and only became aware of it after she was informed by law enforcement officials. After the claims came out earlier this year, Linni stated the allegations were 'true' in a Snapchat statement. She has now hit out at Borg Hiby's 'disrespect' in a podcast 'Puppen og Lillemor' with friend and co-host Mia Gundersen, 63. As reported by Se og Hor, Linni became emotional as she criticised the royal for 'running away and going to party' while 'victims' wait for justice. 'He has no respect for himself or his family. Not even for us victims. It's hurtful. What happened afterwards is almost worse for me,' she said tearfully in an episode. 'Instead of doing the right thing, he runs away and goes to a party. I am appalled by how things are being handled by the defendant. And why isn't more happening? It p***es me off! 'If we are going to have a monarchy, we have to be able to trust it. He is not even in a place where he takes care of his health. He travels from country to country to party!' Linni also admitted her heartbreak at the situation, considering she had felt Borg Hiby was a friend. Even when the police had presented her with 'evidence' of her own assault, she said she initially wondered if it had been forged by AI (artificial intelligence). Prince Sverre Magnus, Crown Prince Haakon, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Crown Princess Mette-Marit and Marius Borg Hiby (pictured far right) in 2019 in Oslo 'Marius doesn't take anything seriously,' she added. 'Everything is like a game to him.' In a statement to the podcast, Borg Hiby's lawyer, Ellen Holager Andens, referred to an earlier statement made in light of Linni's earlier Snapchat 'confirmation'. 'I am unfamiliar with statements on social media, and of course I have no desire to have opinions about what is said there,' they said. 'I am concerned that Se og Hr sees reason to refer to that type of statement and reminds me of my call to reflect on the total media pressure in this case. 'I hope Se og Hr does not think of contacting me every time someone expresses themselves on social media. If so, I can only conclude that the bottom has not yet been reached.' The assault is reported to have taken place in 2018 at a 'party among friends' in the basement of Skaugum Castle 2018, when Borg Hiby was 21. He dubbed these 'Skaugum Festivals' and reportedly had criminal friends, including members of motorcycle gangs. After one of these parties, the home was burgled, when a motorcycle gang reportedly stole private items from the Norwegian Royal Family. Items, including silverware, are alleged to have been taken and then attempted to be sold via an auction house. The event is said to have become 'completely out of hand' and continued in the castle basement while Borg Hiby's stepfather, Crown Prince Haakon, slept upstairs. Borg Hiby is the stepson of the future king of Norway. He was four when his mother married the future King Crown Prince Haakon of Norway. His half-sister is the future Queen of Norway. It was during the party that Borg Hiby allegedly raped Linni while she was unconscious, local media reported. Police became aware of the alleged crime after discovering three videos and more than 10 photos of the incident on Borg Hiby's laptop, it was reported. Linni was informed about the alleged assault at the Oslo Police Station, where she was shown the reportedly incriminating evidence. Borg Hiby was accused of rape by a fifth woman, who alleged that it had taken place after he was released from police custody for assaulting his girlfriend. In March, it was reported that another person had become 'involved in the case' and is said to have been questioned by police 'several times,' according to local outlet Aftenposten. This brought forward a new case of 'rape without intercourse', which allegedly took place late last year - when Borg Hiby was already facing a series of assault charges. 'I can confirm that I have been appointed as a legal aid lawyer for a woman in her 20s,' lawyer John Christian Elden said. 'Beyond that, I have no comment on the case.' That same week, the royal was spotted stepping out in Copenhagen looking unrecognisable, dying his hair dark from white blonde and growing it out. The son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit has also spent time at rehab centres in London since his arrest. Hiby's defence attorney, Ellen Holager Andens, said: 'I have no knowledge of this and therefore have no comments to give.' Heidi Klum is finally addressing the criticism surrounding her joint lingerie campaigns with daughter Leni Klum - and she's not losing sleep over it. In a new People magazine cover story published on Monday, the 52-year-old supermodel brushed off the backlash she has received for posing alongside her 21-year-old daughter (who was 20 at the time of the shoots) in several promotional ads. But fans were most notably upset over the shoot the mother-daughter pair did for the Italian lingerie brand Intimissimi. 'A lot of people are like, "Oh, I don't know about mom and daughter doing this together,"' Klum said. 'But for us? I'm proud of my daughter. She's fine with me like that.' The Project Runway host made it clear that body confidence runs in the family, noting that she's always been comfortable in her own skin. 'I've always been very open with my body,' she added. 'When I'm suntanning in the backyard, I might not have a top on. I'm European my kids don't know me any other way.' While some critics have labeled the mother-daughter shoots as 'inappropriate' or 'weird,' Klum says her family simply doesn't view nudity through a hypersexualized lens. Heidi and Leni Klum pose together in an Intimissimi lingerie campaign - and spark heated conversations online The mother-daughter duo has modeled everything from lingerie basics to cozy cashmere Leni Klum, who began modeling in 2020, says she doesn't let the online hate get to her In fact, she believes that openness has helped her children become more self-assured. Heidi and Leni have fronted several campaigns together, including a lingerie basics collection earlier this year and a cozy cashmere shoot in 2023 that also featured Heidi's mother, 80-year-old Erna Klum. The trio wore long-sleeved sweaters in a rare three-generational fashion moment. Leni, Heidi's daughter with Italian businessman Flavio Briatore, was adopted by Seal during his marriage to Heidi. Although Leni was offered modeling gigs throughout her childhood, Heidi held off on allowing her to enter the industry until she felt her daughter was ready. Leni officially began modeling in 2020. Heidi's decision to wait until Leni was 'old enough' was rooted in her desire to protect her daughter from the pressures of fame - though clearly, Leni has since caught the modeling bug. In a March interview with Vogue Germany, Leni shared her own thoughts on the criticism. Heidi Klum says she's 'proud' of her daughter and unbothered by critics who call their photoshoots 'inappropriate' 'I've always been very open with my body,' Heidi told People. 'My kids don't know me any other way' Heidi explained this all in a new cover story with People released on Monday 'I always try to remember that no matter what you do, there will always be someone who doesn't like it,' she said. 'You simply have no control over it, and you can't focus too much on the negative.' Leni, now a student at New York University, added that the hate is often easier to brush off than people might expect. 'Most of the comments are in German, and I don't really understand many of them,' she joked. 'That helps too, of course.' Meanwhile, it's not just Leni following in her mom's fashionable footsteps. Heidi's son Henry, 19, made his runway debut at Paris Fashion Week earlier this year, signaling that the Klum family modeling dynasty may only be getting started. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued an urgent warning to US travelers over a new scam targeting people in a rush to get through airport security. The new trick is designed to steal sensitive information and money from helpless travelers. The TSA recently took to Facebook to share an important warning about signing up for its PreCheck service. 'Signing up for TSA PreCheck? Make sure you're using a safe and trusted .gov website,' the post read. It also included the official link. The Federal Trade Commission further explained the potential scam on its website. 'No one likes waiting in airport security lines. To speed things up, some people opt to get TSA PreCheck. 'Scammers know this and send emails that look like they're from TSA PreCheck but they're not,' the website reads. 'The emails want you to click a link that takes you to a scam website that only looks like the official site but it's not.' The TSA has issued an urgent warning to US travelers over a new scam targeting people in a rush to get through airport security (stock image) The FTC continued: 'If you pay to "enroll" or "renew" your TSA PreCheck, you may not even realize you've paid a scammer until you get to the airport for your next trip.' Due to a rise in scamming, the TSA regularly issues advice to travelers so they can stay alert. The warning revealed that if you're applying for TSA PreCheck for the first time, you will never pay the application fee online - you will only pay at the TSA enrollment center in person. 'Only a scammer will ask you to pay online to enroll,' the FTC revealed. Other tips included staying clear of unexpected emails or texts from an address that appears to be the TSA. Even if it looks professional, it could very easily be a scammer. The FTC also suggested giving yourself time while you are applying for TSA PreCheck. If you are ever rushed through the process by someone who says they are an agent, it could potenitally be someone trying to scam you. These new scams are designed to steal sensitive information and money from helpless travelers when applying for TSA PreCheck (stock image) Finally, the FTC urged travelers to start on the official government website, tsa.gov/precheck, so you don't start your application in the wrong place. It comes after the TSA recently announced a new, streamlined program for international travelers. The new One Stop Security program (OSS) will allow passengers who are arriving in the U.S. from international airports with connecting flights to bypass TSA re-screening to board their next flight if it is domestic. It's expected to cut out long connection times, which typically include clearing U.S. Customs, claiming checked bags, occasionally rechecking bags, and then clearing TSA security, with American Airlines estimating it could cut down the connection time in airports by half. Like so many others who knew him from the nightlife scene in his home county of Cambridgeshire, Bea Walker* thought that Craig France was one of lifes good guys. Generous and fun-loving, baby-faced France was the life and soul of the party a party he was happy to continue at home once the clubs had shut, with a regular crowd invited back to his well-appointed three-storey home for free-flowing drinks, often consumed in his hot tub. If anyone wondered how exactly the purportedly 20-something France in truth in his early 30s could afford such a nice place, they didnt ask. Speaking for the first time, Bea, now 21, recalls: He was very friendly, just really nice. Hed always buy you drinks. Everyone seemed to know him, he was everyones friend. He offered you advice and made you laugh. It made you feel safe. Yet Craig France was very far from safe. In fact he was a sexual predator who groomed a series of young women, plying them with vast quantities of alcohol before recording himself having intercourse or performing sex acts upon them as they lay unconscious. His heinous secret life only came to light in 2024 when a victim called Abby* heard France had shared a video in which she featured. Tried and sentenced to ten years in prison earlier this year, France could be one of Britains most prolific rapists ever. Just 18 when she met him two years earlier, Abby had long suspected France had raped her, having woken naked in bed to see him washing blood off his penis in his bathroom. Craig France, 33, who was jailed for raping a woman and secretly filming others in his Peterborough home France in police custody staring at the camera during the case, which was filmed for Channel 4 Her last memory had been drinking sambuca shots which she now believes were spiked in his hot tub. News that France had apparently recorded their interactions gave Abby the courage to go to the police, who arrested France at his home. A subsequent search by detectives uncovered time-stamped videos corroborating her account, including footage from an external camera positioned on the hot tub which showed France dragging an unconscious Abby from the tub and across the concrete path by the legs before raping her. You look so beautiful he told her. That, of course, was horrifying enough. Yet the film was just one of thousands of graphic videos and photographs France had recorded on assorted digital devices hidden round his home, featuring largely unconscious women. While he was tried for offences between 2021 and 2023, police acknowledge they have no idea how long he may have been offending. Among them was Bea, who was devastated to discover that a man she considered a friend had filmed himself having sex with her as well as other sexual acts while smirking at the camera. I felt totally violated, she says quietly, describing the first time she saw the sickening footage. It was just degrading, a total abuse of trust from someone I considered a friend. Her case is one of those featured in a two-part special of 24 Hours in Police Custody, which shows the dogged investigation undertaken by Cambridgeshire Police as they bring France to justice and attempt to identify the women featured in his depraved digital library. Detectives have been able to identify five, but there are at least 20 different women in the footage. Craig France during his arrest in a still from 24 Hours in Police Custody The series takes the viewer to the point in March this year when France, a 34-year-old lorry driver, pleaded guilty to rape, sexual assault, voyeurism and exposure. His sentence of 18 years and seven months was reduced to ten years and seven months in jail because of his guilty plea. It is far from enough for Bea, who believes Frances punishment does not reflect the sheer number of possible victims and the extent of his betrayal. When you think how much evidence was on his phone, and the number of secret cameras, I dont think its remotely enough he will probably be out in five years, she says. I just hope that this programme means people will remember his name and his face, because I dont think a leopard changes its spots. Reynhard Sinaga, 42, was given a life sentence after being found guilty of 136 counts of rape of vulnerable male victims The fact that France may be out within a few years certainly contrasts with the case of Reynhard Sinaga, 42, who preyed on vulnerable male victims, similarly drugging, raping and filming them. Charged with 136 counts of rape, he was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 30 years in January 2020. The scale of Frances offending certainly surprised even seasoned detectives, one of whom confides during the series that she believes the footage they found in his home may only be the tip of the iceberg. Its very difficult to put a number on how many individuals there could still be to come, says Detective Chief Inspector Helen Tebbit, who led the investigation for Cambridgeshire Police. She points out as well as befriending young girls locally, France also used dating apps and roamed the country courtesy of his work as a lorry driver. She confides that it haunts her she will never know the full extent of his offending. We cant just assume the digital evidence we have is everything that could have happened, she adds. What those who have been identified all have in common is that they were all young when they first came into Frances orbit. Like Abby, Bea had just turned 18 when she was first introduced to France on a night out in Cambridgeshire. She became part of a crowd that went clubbing and then returned back to his home for more drinking. I couldnt tell you how many times I went, or even where he lived, she says. We were always drunk. He took drunk people back to his house and there was always plenty more drink when we got there. Officers inspect France's hot tub following calls he filmed women without their consent Alcohol bottles found during the police's search of France's home Although she never directly asked him how old he was, Bea assumed France was in his early 20s (on social media, friends would often joke about Frances baby face). He looked young, although no-one really knew how old he actually was, she says. I didnt think to ask him, because I assumed a fully grown man wouldnt be hanging around with 18-year-olds. Most nights back at Frances went the same way lots of alcohol and time in the hot tub although Bea confides she has little in the way of specific memories of them. Nonetheless, she recalls how, on one occasion, at yet another small hours gathering, France made her feel uncomfortable. He started to act a bit weird, like his whole character just changed, she recalls. He was walking round totally naked, just talking about sex. On another occasion, Bea woke on his sofa with stomach cramps and bleeding. I didnt know what on earth had happened, she says. I didnt want to say anything. Then, a couple of days later, France sent a series of messages in an online group chat that Bea was a member of, in which he referred to videos he had taken of young women. He was making jokes and saying stuff that made me feel really uncomfortable, she recalls. She left the chat, only for another member of the group to contact her to say France had said he had videos of her too. I felt really upset, I didnt know what these videos were, I literally had no idea what he meant, she says. After hearing that a video was circulating of a girl called Abby, she plucked up the courage to contact police, reporting her fears that France had been filming girls without their consent. France was then arrested on suspicion of rape, with police cameras capturing the moment he opened the door to them clad in his dressing gown. A search of his house found restraints under the bed, blacked out windows and secret cameras containing thousands of recordings of young women positioned in several rooms and the back yard. Among them was Bea who, supported by police, was asked to watch footage retrieved from Frances home in which he can be seen smirking as he positions a camera in order to get a better view of himself performing a number of sex acts. Part of me didnt want to watch, but I also knew I had to confront what had happened, she says. What she saw horrified her. You could tell I was very drunk, she recalls, her voice wavering. In one of them he had his phone up on a table, and I was on my back, and I must have caught him and even though I was drunk I asked him to delete it and he just laughed. And obviously he didnt. Hes doing sexual things and in one he is looking back at the camera and smiling. The impact of seeing them was devastating. I felt completely violated, on every level, Bea says quietly, wiping her eyes. Its everything, not just what hes doing when I was drunk and he knew I was drunk, but the fact that I asked him to stop filming and he didnt. Detective Chief Inspector Helen Tebbit of the Cambridgeshire Constabulary She was left with feelings of self-loathing that remain to this day. I was just really depressed for a long time, crying all the time because I just felt so much disgust about what he did, she says. I thought he was my friend, I thought I could be safe with him, but obviously he wasnt a friend. Bea and Abby were not alone. Two other women identified by police from the videos learned of Frances depraved activities only on being contacted by officers. I felt so much shame, embarrassment and disgust, one of the anonymous victims confides on camera. Detectives also uncovered footage of France whose only prior conviction was for dangerous driving in 2012 exposing himself at a roundabout. After a series of no comment interviews, France was charged with a number of sex and voyeurism offences and remanded in custody after being refused bail. It meant that Abby, Bea and his other victims faced the dismaying prospect of giving evidence against him in court. I was scared, Bea admits. Id never been in a courtroom before, so I didnt know how it all worked. And obviously I didnt want to see his face ever again. At the same time, I wanted to show him that Im not going to be scared of him and that he didnt have power over me any more. During the trial in March this year France offered to plead guilty to one charge of rape, one of sexual assault and voyeurism, although DCI Tebbit says she does not believe he has shown remorse. Im not of the view that hes ever really accepted what hes done was wrong, she says. Sentencing him at Cambridge Crown Court, the judge described him as a misogynist predator and toxic risk to women. News of Frances incarceration has since persuaded others to come forward. A spokesperson for Cambridgeshire Police said: Inquiries are ongoing but its too early to say if we have any other victims at this stage. For Bea, meanwhile, the impact of Frances actions remains devastating. Its very difficult for me to trust, she says. Relationships, friendships theyve all been affected. I dont really go out any more. Its always there and I dont think Ill ever really move on from it. There has, at least, been catharsis in allowing her story to be filmed. I worry a lot about him coming out and doing it again, she says. I cant change what happened to me, but I hope that this helps to teach young girls starting out in life and going clubbing to be careful who they befriend. On my wall hangs a photo of a seven-year-old me in a small yellow sailboat with my father beside me, holding lines while I steered the boat. It was the start of many years of sailing on the Toms River and Barnegat Bay in New Jersey, where I spent summers in an idyllic small town surrounded by family. As a child, I didn't question the absence of fish, the scum lining the shore or its faint foul odor. For eight years, I swam in a river that had once been a toxic dumping ground for a plant owned at the time by Ciba-Geigy, a chemical company that churned out dyes, plastics, and adhesives seven miles northwest. The toxic waste from Ciba-Geigy's plant was later linked by state health officials to a cluster of childhood cancers - over 100 cases in around 15 years - just a few miles from my grandparents' house. A flood of toxins seeped into the areas groundwater and sickened hundreds of children. State health data has since shown that, for decades, every glass of water filled in Toms River carried trace amounts of toxic chemicals. Not many people were aware of the dumping. According to my dad, who grew up in a small town next to Toms River, 'We didn't know anything about it until it came out later with the cancer cluster. 'I remember when it was just rumors and everyone was like it couldnt be, everyone loves Ciba-Geigy.' Sailing with my father on the Toms River in New Jersey, around 1997. At this point, I rarely saw fish in the river, and I remember a faint odor around a brownish foam that collected where the water met the shore When Ciba-Geigy opened in 1952, it revived Toms River's economy with hundreds of jobs. A long-time Toms River resident, Summer Bardia, told DailyMail.com her Uncle Ed, who worked at Ciba-Geigy for 10 years, would come home and hed sweat out the different colors that he was working with that day. 'My Uncle Ed knew something was wrong, as did his co-workers at the plant,' Bardia said. 'He took his clothes off and got into the shower as soon as he got home from work.' Ed developed rare bladder cancer, brain tumors, and dementia. While she can't prove it, Bardia said the connection between her uncle's workplace exposure and his diseases seems undeniable. Dye production uses several cancer-linked chemicals, and EPA investigations found the companys runoff contained suspected or known carcinogens like benzene, chromium, lead, arsenic and mercury. It also uses tetrachloroethene (PCE), which has been shown to double bladder cancer risk and raise risk of nervous system cancers, and trichloroethene (TCE), which raises leukemia risk two to five times. For decades, the company dumped toxic wastewater into unlined pits, allowing carcinogens linked to bladder, brain, and kidney cancers and leukemia, to leach into the groundwater and flow into Toms River. Under pressure from outraged residents of Ocean County, Ciba-Geigy stopped dumping waste in lagoons, instead pumping it 10 miles offshore, until a 1984 pipe rupture spewed black sludge. There were an estimated 47,000 buried drums of toxic waste found across the 1,400-acre site By the mid-1970s, the town saw a disturbing spike in childhood cancers. Before merging into Toms River, Dover Township recorded 90 childhood cancer cases over 17 yearsfar above the 67 expected. Leukemia in young girls stood out, with seven cases instead of the expected 2.7. In Toms River, 24 cases were recorded where just 14 were expected, including 10 in young girls, most of which were brain cancer and leukemia. The toll was worst among preschool girls. Brain cancers were at least 10 times the normal rates and leukemia rates were eight times the national baseline for girls that age. Scientists confirmed these werent random flukes. The data matched patterns near other toxic waste sites around the US. The Ciba-Geigy campus was designated a Superfund site in 1983. I would be lying if I said I wasn't worried for the kids in towns along the river beginning their sailing programs every summer and the older long-time residents who still love to sail. I would also be lying if I said I didn't feel a bit of trepidation when I turn on the faucet at my grandparents' house, where the water has a slightly odd smell. I ask myself now if it's due to old metal pipes or a remnant of corporate wrongdoing. Ciba had lagoons where wet chemical waste was deposited and left to dry before being scraped off and stored into containers to be buried later The plant shut down all operations in 1996. The chemical company BASF acquired it in 2009, inheriting all clean up responsibility. The EPA oversight has shrunk Toms Rivers toxic plume, but full cleanup is years away. Alec Boss, communications and outreach coordinator for the activist group Save Barnegat Bay, called cleanup efforts 'woefully inadequate.' Contaminated groundwater is being pumped out, treated, and discharged back into the ground. Boss told DailyMail.com: Imagine that you come up to a pond filled with this horrible pond scum and nasty bacteria, you get a cup of this dirty pond water and one of those iodine tablets that you would take if you were going camping, and you put that in that cup and you clean up that water, and then you just dump that back into the pond. 'That's essentially what they're doing.' Diane Salkie, EPAs remedial project manager for the site, told members in a webinar that weve probably gone down about 40 percent, maybe theres about 60 percent [of the toxic plume] remaining, but thats very ballpark. However, the ocean is much cleaner now, Bardia said. 'I love jumping in those ocean waves. I love bringing my family and friends and showing them how clean the ocean is now, looking at all the dolphins and the whales and the rays.' Alec Boss, communications and outreach coordinator for the activist group Save Barnegat Bay, called cleanup efforts 'woefully inadequate' Your browser does not support iframes. The river is cleaner, too. I've noticed when I go back to Island Heights it's bluer and I no longer see foam at the shoreline. Ocean County still suffers high cancer rates, with 524 cases per 100,000 compared to the state average of 474 per 100,000. The national rate is still lower at about 444 cases per 100,000. A statement from BASF said: 'We want to be clear that a significant amount of work has been done over the past 30 years, and the US EPA has determined that the site currently poses no risk to human health and the environment. 'BASF will continue to work with the US EPA and NJDEP until all federal and state requirements are met. While US EPA has stated that full remediation of the groundwater plume may take several more years, this is typical of larger groundwater cleanup efforts.' But the EPA-supervised cleanup only treats the former plant site, not the broader community's toxic burden. Bardia said: What about the rest of Toms River? What about the area around the pipeline? What about all those backyards with all that soot that landed on peoples homes and yards? 'I dont want to scare people away, but I want them to know that this fight is still going on.' Exposure to a toxic metal as far back as childhood could raise the risk of developing dementia later in life, a first-of-its-kind study suggests. Researchers in Canada studied more than 600,000 older US adults who were exposed as children to high levels of lead, a toxic metal linked to autism, infertility and cancer. They found people who grew up in the 1960s and 70s - when the use of lead in gasoline and paint was commonplace and unregulated - were 20 percent more likely to have memory issues later in life. These memory issues could develop into mild cognitive decline, a precursor to several forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease - the most common form which affects nearly 7 million Americans. Additionally, nearly nine in 10 Americans growing up at the time had 'dangerously high' levels of lead in their blood, suggesting damning long-term consequences for older Americans. The research, unveiled at the world's largest dementia conference this week in Toronto, suggests the exposure is likely tied to leaded gasoline, which took nearly two decades to be phased out of cars sold in the US. However, the metal still lurks in older houses, meaning younger generations could face the same dementia risk. Additional US-based studies revealed at the conference found even small levels of lead exposure could lead to more amyloid and tau plaques - which cause Alzheimer's disease - forming in the brain. Lead exposure dating to childhood could increase the risk of memory issues Your browser does not support iframes. Dr Maria C Carrillo, chief science officer and medical affairs lead of the Alzheimer's Association, who was not involved in the studies, said: 'Research suggests half the US population - more than 170 million people - were exposed to high lead levels in early childhood. 'This research sheds more light on the toxicity of lead related to brain health in older adults today.' The results come as nearly 9 million adults in the US are living with some sort of dementia. The first study, from researchers at the University of Toronto, looked at approximately 600,000 US adults sourced from the American Community Survey. The participants, all over the age of 65, were exposed to historically atmospheric levels of lead (HALL) between 1960 and 1974. The researchers did not analyze the source of the lead but believe that a higher density of automobile traffic, such as in urban areas, was the main contributor. The team determined that 17 to 22 percent of people living in areas with moderate, high or extremely high atmospheric lead reported memory issues. This translated to a 20 percent increased risk of memory problems compared to those without high lead exposure. Dr Eric Brown, lead study author and associate chief of geriatric psychiatry at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, said: 'Our study may help us understand the pathways that contribute to some people developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease.' Your browser does not support iframes. When lead enters the body, it travels through the bloodstream and spreads to vital organs, including the brain. Once there, it infiltrates cells responsible for nutrients like calcium and iron, causing permanent damage. There is no safe level of lead, according to the CDC. For decades, lead was added to paint, pipes and even some children's toys. The researchers noted it was also used in gasoline to improve performance, and the process to phase it out did not start until 1975. It took roughly 20 years to fully remove lead from gasoline. Dr Esme Fuller-Thomson, senior study author and professor at the University of Toronto, said: 'When I was a child in 1976, our blood carried 15 times more lead than children's blood today. 'An astonishing 88 percent of us had levels higher than 10 micrograms per deciliter, which are now considered dangerously high.' The researchers warned while atmospheric lead levels have decreased, the metal can still be found in older homes without updated paint or pipes. In fact, roughly 38 million homes throughout the country (one in four) were built prior to lead paint bans and may still contain the paint on windowsills, doorframes, stairs, railings, porches and fences. The EPA also estimates there are still about 9 million lead pipes in use across the US. Dr Brown urged those who have been exposed to atmospheric lead to focus on reducing other risk factors for dementia, including high blood pressure, smoking and social isolation. The researchers tied high lead exposure to gasoline used in the 1960s and '70s An additional study presented this week at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference found that older adults who live within three miles of a lead-releasing facility were more likely to have memory and thinking issues than those who lived further away. These facilities include those that manufacture glass, mixed concrete or computers and other electronics. The team, from the University of California, Davis, assessed 2,379 older patients who had an average age of 74. All lived in California and were taken from two studies. Compared to two years earlier, participants who lived three miles from a lead-releasing facility scored lower on verbal episodic memory tests - recalling personal experiences - and overall cognition than those who lived further away. And every three miles farther a participant lived from one of these facilities, their memory scores improved an additional five percent. Dr Kathryn Conlon, senior study author and associate professor of environmental epidemiology at UC Davis, said: 'Our results indicate that lead exposure in adulthood could contribute to worse cognitive performance within a few years. 'Despite tremendous progress on lead abatement, studies have shown there is no safe level of exposure - and half of US children have detectable levels of lead in their blood.' Dr Conlon also found there were 7,507 lead-releasing facilities in the US in 2023. To reduce exposure, she said people living nearby should keep their homes clean to avoid the accumulation of lead-contaminated dust, remove their shoes when coming inside and place dust mats inside and outside to avoid tracking contaminated dust indoors. The above map shows populations served by drinking water with the highest levels of lead A third study from Purdue University exposed human brain cells to lead in zero, 15 and 50 parts per billion, simulating the kind of lead exposure people might experience through contaminated water or air. The EPA's action level for lead in drinking water is 15 parts per billion. The researchers found neurons were more electrically active than those with no exposure, suggesting early signs of cognitive dysfunction. There was also an increase in amyloid and tau proteins. Dr Junkai Xie, lead study author and post-doctoral research associate in chemical engineering at Purdue University, said: 'Our results show that lead exposure isn't just a short-term concern; it may set the stage for cognitive problems decades later.' People with autism are at a significantly greater risk of developing memory-robbing dementia, experts warn. Researchers presenting at the world's largest dementia conference this week suggested rapidly surging autism spectrum disorder (ASD) could increase the risk of dementia, which affects 9million Americans. In one study of nearly 800,000 people, adults with autism and other intellectual disabilities were up to three times more likely to have signs of cognitive decline and dementia. And even autistic people under 50 were 30 percent more likely to be diagnosed with dementia than their neurotypical peers. Another unveiled study showed nearly one in three autistic adults exhibited at least two signs of cognitive decline, like forgetting a word or wandering at night. Experts in Pennsylvania and Washington DC suggested the increased risk could be due to higher rates of other conditions in people with autism, like depression and diabetes, which have been shown to cause damaging inflammation in the brain. Drugs that block neurotransmitters responsible for memory like bladder drugs and Benadryl may also be to blame, one of the studies suggested. The emerging research comes as one in 31 children in the US now have autism, a staggering increase from about one in 150 in the early 2000s. Newly presented research shows autism may increase dementia risk (stock image) Your browser does not support iframes. Experts suspect the surge is due to doctors getting better at detecting the disorder and increased awareness. However, health secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr earlier this year announced a series of studies to hone in on 'environmental toxins' he believes are responsible, including pollution, ultra-processed foods and ultrasound scans. Dr Lindsay Shea, one of the study authors and director of the Policy and Analytics Center at Drexel University's AJ Drexel Autism Institute, said during a conference presentation: We see that autistic children have grown up to become mostly autistic adults and now older adults. 'The first generation of autistic adults are now in their 80s and 90s.' Dementia is also on the rise, with experts suspecting it could strike 14million Americans by 2060. In one study presented this week at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference, researchers pulled Medicare and Medicaid claim data from 2017 to 2019 of nearly 800,000 Americans ages 30 and over. Participants were split into four groups: autism, autism plus intellectual disability (fetal alcohol syndrome, for example) or intellectual disability. There were 60,087 people in the autism group, 101,748 with both autism and intellectual disability and 632,607 with only an intellectual disability. They were then compared to about 760,000 adults in the general population. The researchers found 30 percent of adults over 65 with autism were diagnosed with dementia compared to 19 percent in the general population, a 45 percent increased risk. The difference was even greater for people with autism and intellectual disability, as 32 percent of this group developed dementia. Among 50- to 64-year-olds, eight percent of people with autism had dementia compared to five percent of the general population, a 46 percent difference. And people with autism and another intellectual disability were three times more likely to have dementia than neurotypical people. The team also found 1.1 percent of autistic individuals between ages 30 and 49 had dementia compared to 0.8 percent in the general population, a 31 percent difference. Dr Shea said: 'This data supports the idea of both early onset and higher prevalence rates of dementia in these populations.' Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Another study from George Washington University looked at two samples of 210 independent and 500 dependent autistic adults who reported signs of cognitive decline like trouble recalling tasks or words, impaired judgment or changes in behavior. Caregivers also noted their dependent loved ones wandered at night, avoided initiating conversation and lost track of time. Independent participants were between 42 and 81 years old with an average age of 54. Autistic adults dependent on a caregiver were 18 to 68 years old with an average age of About 30 percent of independent autistic people had two or more signs of cognitive decline while 10 percent of dependent adults had caregivers report at least one sign of impairment. The most common cognitive decline indicators were less interest in activities, everyday thinking problems and judgment issues. Dr Gregory Wallace, study author and associate professor at George Washington University, said: 'That's very high given the average age.' Dr Wallace believes certain medications could be to blame. Nearly two-thirds of adults in the study were taking anticholinergics, drugs that block the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is crucial for muscle contractions, memory, learning and other functions. The above map shows dementia risk divided by geographic region They're used to treat a variety of issues including urinary incontinence, gastrointestinal distress, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and Parkinson's disease, which are all more common in autistic people than the general population. These drugs are also sold over the counter in as Benadryl, Tylenol, Advil PM and Dramamine, among others. It's thought that anticholinergics blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine over repeated use could lead to permanent damage to cognitive functions. Autistic people also tend to be more sensitive to medications. The increased dementia risk also may be tied to chronic conditions like depression, diabetes and high blood pressure, which induce harmful inflammation in the brain and damage neurons responsible for memory. Dr Shea said: 'This is particularly noteworthy because all of these diagnoses are more prevalent in autism than they are in the general population. 'We know that autistic adults are often unemployed, often don't have community integration and have high rates of obesity.' Sarah Simon, the 49-year-old manager of tourist company Panoramic Jersey, has lived near the islands airport all her life, close to the fire training ground. In the mid-Nineties it was discovered that foam used for fire training at the airport, packed with chemicals called PFAS, had leaked into the surrounding environment, soaking into the soil and over time, finding their way into a local private bore. This affected hundreds of residents drinking water. PFAS have been linked to a range of health problems, including reduced immunity, raised cholesterol, thyroid problems, and even certain cancers. After the bore water was finally tested in 2004, the residents affected were moved on to mains water but it took another 16 years until the Jersey government offered free blood tests to residents living or working near the airport, who had consumed the borehole water and who showed symptoms linked to PFAS exposure. Some were found to have levels linked to health problems. One of those residents was Sarah Simon. She is convinced that PFAS have caused her various health problems. As we were washing in these chemicals, my eczema was horrendous throughout my late teens and for most of my 20s, she told Good Health. I was then diagnosed with the autoimmune disorder vitiligo [which causes loss of pigment in the skin] when I was 26. She was also found to have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, caused by the accumulation of PFAS in her liver, she believes. Rozel Harbour in Rozel Bay, Jersey,which is known as 'cancer island' to some hospital workers in Southampton Sarah has since interviewed every person on my road about their health. I can prove that nearly every male had or still has kidney stones, nearly every female has thyroid issues. Its thought both can be linked to PFAS exposure. She adds: There have been deaths from kidney cancer, one person was recently diagnosed with testicular cancer, two people with throat cancer, and there are countless cases of breast cancer. Other islanders affected by PFAS pollution have complained of ill health in generations of their families. Graeme Farmer, 57, an arable farmer with land close to the airport and part of the first group of residents tested has said that drinking the polluted water caused his blood cancer six years ago. His brother developed mouth cancer at the same time and his father had kidney cancer and bladder cancer, which the family also blame on the pollutants. Jersey is known as Cancer Island by hospital staff in Southampton [where some patients are treated], claims Sarah. Coincidence? Latest Jersey government data shows that incidence rates are roughly 10 to 20 per cent higher there than in England for breast, skin, and head and neck cancers. Sarah Simon is convinced PFAS in the tap water in Jersey have caused a range of issues including vitiligo and eczema Kawasaki disease [which causes inflammation in the blood vessels throughout the body] is super rare, yet a rheumatologist I spoke to said she knows of four people (at least) diagnosed with this type of rare autoimmune disorder here in Jersey, says Sarah. PFAS or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are a group of over 10,000 man-made chemicals widely used in everyday products, from non-stick frying pans to waterproof mascara. Known as forever chemicals, they dont break down naturally, and can persist in the environment and human bodies for years, if not decades. The two most commonly found in humans are PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonates) and PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acids). Government research in the US and Europe has shown that PFAS have been detected in the blood of more than 98 per cent of people. The sources of these PFAS include household products. But generally the main ways they get into our body will be via drinking water and foods, say experts. PFAS have been linked in dozens of studies over the years to serious health concerns a 2023 study in Science of the Total Environment, for instance, found that higher PFAS levels in mens semen were linked to poorer sperm quality, affecting fertility. In the same year a study in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives linked PFAS exposure to higher risks of kidney and testicular cancer. But now the Jersey government is proposing an unusual solution to the potential risks. Latest Jersey government data shows that incidence rates are roughly 10 to 20 per cent higher there than in England for breast, skin, and head and neck cancers Earlier this year, public health doctors from the PFAS Independent Scientific Advisory Panel, set up by the Jersey government in 2023, recommended that the residents whod been officially tested be offered bloodletting (to be carried out by doctors from Health and Care Jersey, the islands NHS). The centuries-old medical practice is seen as an effective way to help remove the chemicals as the chemicals bind to proteins in the blood. Similar to standard blood donation, it involves removing about a pint of blood via the arm. (Those affected would in theory undergo repeated sessions.) The panel also recommended a medication called colesevelam, a cholesterol-lowering drug shown to bind to PFAS in the gut and stop the body reabsorbing them. Its thought the Jersey government will approve the recommendations in September. As Dr Steve Hajioff, chair of the panel, told Good Health: We cant be sure that removing PFAS from the body will reduce the chance of that person getting ill, however, or will reverse existing illnesses. But we do know that if it is removed from a womans body before she becomes pregnant, she will pass much less of it on to her future children and so they should have less risk of being made ill by PFAS in the future. All this has not come soon enough for Sarah Simon. She says families in the area were left drinking contaminated water in the area for decades. The government of Jersey first knew PFAS were in ground water in 1993. However, the water near the airport fire ground was not tested for PFAs until 2004. The pollution of water sources by forever chemicals isnt isolated to Jersey and there are growing concerns that too little is being done in the UK to protect residents. A shocking analysis published two weeks ago by the Environmental Agency reveals that virtually every English river, lake and pond tested for PFAS is breaching proposed new safety limits, with 85 per cent exceeding them by at least five times. The Environment Agency tests on 117 water bodies found that 110 would fail to meet the EUs proposed maximum limit. The problem isnt confined to water. PFOS were also detected in freshwater fish at levels an average of 322 times higher than the limit set to protect wildlife. Alarmingly, experts warn that just one portion of such fish per month could push human consumers beyond the annual safe intake of PFOS. A previous report by the Environment Agency identified more than 10,000 PFAS hotspots across the UK, where levels are at high risk of causing health problems. The hotspots are located near industrial sites and military bases (which would have used PFAS in firefighting foam). One such hotspot is in the Cotswolds, where concentrations of PFAS were approximately 2,000 times over the safety limit in a stream that went through the Fire Service College in Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire. Despite firefighting foam with PFOS being banned in the UK in 2011, it is still polluting ground water. The Ministry of Defence announced in April that it will investigate three military bases over concerns that they are leaking PFOS into local drinking water: AAC Middle Wallop in Hampshire, RAF Marham in Norfolk, and RM Chivenor in Devon have been identified by the Environment Agency as high-risk sites for PFAS contamination due to their historical use of firefighting foams containing these harmful chemicals. Investigations are ongoing, with no published test results so far. Other sites identified in Freedom of Information requests include RAF Benson and RAF Coningsby, which recorded PFAS concentrations far exceeding UK safe limits of 100ng/l (7,700ng/l and 3,550ng/l, respectively). One such hotspot for PFAS is in the Cotswolds, where concentrations of the chemicals in a stream were approximately 2,000 times over the safety limit Alex Ford, a professor of biology and specialist in ecotoxicology at the University of Portsmouth, told Good Health: There could well be pockets of the UK which have drinking water that have levels of PFAS which are not safe to drink over the long term. He is also concerned about farmland where our food is grown: Much of the PFAS during the wastewater treatment process gets bound within the sludge. Sludge is the solid waste left when water is treated at a sewage plant. This sludge is often spread on farmland as fertiliser, meaning PFAS are released into the soil. In the UK up to 87 per cent of sludge is returned to farmland as fertiliser, which can be another route of contamination into the environment and water supplies as well as food, says Professor Ford. Yet Patrick Byrne, a professor of water science at Liverpool John Moores University, who has studied the impact of forever chemicals on water sources, says most drinking water in the UK probably has PFAS in it, but at very low concentrations. Some populations may live in areas where a drinking water source has become polluted by PFAS above what is considered background concentrations. But the number of people in this band will be very low. Similarly, much of our meat and vegetables probably contain PFAS at low levels, he adds. Over time PFAS can build up in our bodies. Pressure is mounting on the Government to act. The Royal Society of Chemistry launched its Clean Up UK Drinking Water campaign in October 2023, urging stricter PFAS standards for tap water. This followed their nationwide analysis of watercourses in England and Wales, which discovered that more than a third contained medium or high-risk levels of PFAS. Both the US and EU are setting far tougher limits on toxic forever chemicals. For instance the US Environmental Protection Agency has introduced a legally enforceable limit for some PFAS of 4 nanograms per litre of water (ng/l). Here, the Drinking Water Inspectorate advises water companies keep the combined level of 48 PFAS below 100 ng/l. This is not legally binding. Guidance alone is not going to provide a long-term fix to truly safeguard our drinking water and public health, we need statutory legislation with clear, enforceable standards, says Stephanie Metzger, policy adviser in sustainable chemicals at the Royal Society of Chemistry. She points to a recent survey they conducted which suggested that 84 per cent of people support regulation to reduce PFAS contamination from industry. Now is the time for policymakers to enact robust laws that leave no room for uncertainty and hold polluters accountable, she says. DID YOU KNOW? A new study by Boston University suggests that fibre, particularly from oats, forms a gel in the gut that binds to forever chemicals, reducing their absorption into the bloodstream. Advertisement There are also calls for more robust water treatment methods, with concerns that the approach the water industry takes currently to deal with forever chemicals in our water is unsustainable. Water companies use an uncontaminated water source to blend the polluted water to dilute it to acceptable levels. As more PFAS accumulate in these sites, we may start running out of sources that meet the requirements, says Ms Metzger. In other words, there wont be enough uncontaminated water to use. With the UK having just experienced one of the driest springs since records began, the threat from PFAS contamination becomes even more urgent, adds Ms Metzger. She and other experts are calling for new approaches, such as using activated carbon to filter out PFAS. But these systems are costly to operate and experts warn that until government regulations force action, many water firms have little incentive to invest. The solution isnt just forcing water companies to improve treatment, though thats vital, says Professor Byrne its also about banning the use of the most harmful PFAS altogether, so they dont get into our water supply in the first place. As he explains: Forever chemicals are a huge chemical class, which is growing all the time. Only a few have been studied in enough detail in terms of their impact on human health. But because they have almost identical chemical properties to each other, and because all of the evidence is saying they are bad for us, they should be regulated as a whole chemical group rather than one or two compounds. Currently the regulation of PFAS is like chemical Whac-A-Mole, says Professor Byrne. When one chemical is whacked on the head the industry quickly comes up with another one to replace it with. Without action, more people are going to be living with the consequences as he warns ominously: PFAS are probably the greatest chemical threat facing humankind in the 21st century. For some two million people in the UK, hearing aids are a vital lifeline, allowing them to stay in touch with the world around them. But they cannot restore hearing the devices work by amplifying sounds and despite modern, sleek designs, for many people there is still a stigma attached to wearing them. Now a UK clinical trial, the first of its kind in the world, is about to test a groundbreaking new treatment that could, if successful, banish the need for hearing aids altogether in some people. It involves stem cells (immature cells which can develop into new nerves and tissue) that have been grown in the lab from donor cells being injected deep inside the damaged ear. Once there, the hope is these stem cells will grow into healthy new auditory nerve cells which transmit sounds from the inner ear to the brain replacing those irreversibly damaged by the ageing process, faulty genes or infections such as measles or mumps. There are currently no treatments for this type of nerve damage. In animal tests, the stem-cell jab not only proved safe but also significantly improved hearing. Now scientists at Rinri Therapeutics, a spin-out company from Sheffield University where the treatment was developed have been given the go-ahead to test the jab on 20 patients with severe hearing loss to see if they can achieve the same results in humans. An estimated 1.2 million adults in the UK have severe hearing loss that means they cannot hear most conversational speech, according to the Royal National Institute for Deaf People. Doug Hartley, professor of otology at Nottingham University, says the otic neural progenitor cells are injected 'into the tiny space between the inner ear and the brain, and tests show they... crucially dont turn into any other type of cell Some 12,000 are so profoundly deaf they have been fitted with cochlear implants tiny electronic devices, costing around 20,000 each, surgically implanted deep inside the cochlea (a snail-shaped compartment inside the ear) to do the job of delicate hair cells destroyed by ageing, loud noise or infection. In a healthy ear, these hair cells convert sounds into electrical impulses that travel along the auditory nerve to the brain. But once destroyed they do not regenerate. It was once thought the loss of these hair cells was the chief cause of age-related hearing loss. However, its now believed it may be more to do with auditory nerve cell damage. The hope is that a single dose of the stem-cell injection called Rincell-1 will completely reverse hearing loss in people who are deaf because of damage to their auditory nerves. The clinical trial will take place at three NHS sites University Hospitals Birmingham, Cambridge University Hospitals, and Guys and St Thomas NHS Trusts. The stem-cell treatment will be given under general anaesthetic to 20 profoundly deaf patients as they undergo cochlear implant surgery. In future, it might be possible to inject it without surgery. Key to the process is the type of stem cells used. Called otic neural progenitor cells, these are just one developmental stage away from being fully mature auditory nerve cells. Once inside the inner ear, they make that final leap to fully matured, working cells. They have already decided they are going to become auditory nerve cells, says Doug Hartley, chief medical officer of Rinri Therapeutics and a professor of otology at Nottingham University. We inject them into the tiny space between the inner ear and the brain, and tests show they stay where we put them and, crucially, dont turn into any other type of cell. Professor Nish Mehta, a consultant ear, nose and throat surgeon at University College London Hospitals, agrees the test results are 'really promising' but warns there are risks involved This is important as a long-running concern about all stem-cell treatments, for any condition, is whether injected cells could turn cancerous, as they have the capacity to become any type of cell, including theoretically cancer cells. Professor Hartley says the first results are due in 2027 and, if all goes well, the treatment could be used on patients with mild to moderate age-related hearing loss who dont need cochlear implants. Kevin Munro, a professor of audiology at Manchester University, says: This is exciting. Hearing aids and cochlear implants are helpful but you still get a lot of background noise and theyre not always that effective. If theyre successful, it has the potential to transform the lives of thousands with hearing loss due to nerve damage. However, he warned that there is currently no easy way to determine if someones deafness is due to nerve damage or the destruction of hair cells in the cochlea. And its not guaranteed that fixing the nerve damage will translate to better hearing. Professor Nish Mehta, a consultant ear, nose and throat surgeon at University College London Hospitals, agrees its really promising. He told Good Health: Tests on mice found that after the treatment the brain was receiving sound information, where it wasnt before. But he warns there are risks involved opening up the inner ear to inject stem cells, or put in cochlear implants, can destroy remaining healthy hair cells, damaging any remaining natural hearing a patient may have. He says: About a third of people undergoing cochlear implants lose all their remaining hearing. Health officials in New York have issued a warning following the outbreak of a deadly lung disease in parts of the city, with numbers growing by the day. The NYC Health Department was alerted to a community cluster of three cases of Legionnaires' disease in Central Harlem last week. But that number has now grown to eight, officials said Monday. The patients are located in neighborhoods with the ZIP codes 10027, 10030, 10035, and 10037. Health experts say the outbreak is not linked to an issue with any buildings plumbing system and residents in these ZIP codes can continue to drink tap water, bathe, shower, cook, and use their air conditioning units at home. Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia that causes lung inflammation, and complications from the disease can be fatal. It is caused by a bacterium, known as Legionella that is primarily spread through the inhalation of contaminated water droplets or aerosols. These contaminated droplets can be released from various water sources, including cooling towers, hot tubs, showers, and decorative fountains. Dr Celia Quinn, deputy commissioner of the health department's Division of Disease Control, revealed that 'very hot and humid [weather] can help the bacteria to grow really rapidly'. New Yorkers try to cool off with a fan that sprays water during a hot day as the National Weather Service on Monday issued a warning due to extremely high temperatures Your browser does not support iframes. On Tuesday, temperatures in New York are set to climb to more than 80F, with humidity levels of more than 70 percent. To date, there have been no deaths associated with the cluster of patients reported in New York. The source of the infections is unknown and the Health Department is actively investigating these cases and is sampling and testing water from all cooling tower systems in the area. 'Any New Yorkers with flu-like symptoms should contact a health care provider as soon as possible,' deputy chief medical officer Dr Toni Eyssallenne said in a statement. She added: 'Legionnaires' disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early. 'But New Yorkers at higher risk, like adults aged 50 and older, those who smoke or have chronic lung conditions should be especially mindful of their symptoms and seek care as soon as symptoms begin.' The CDC reports that cases of Legionnaires' disease have been increasing since the early 2000s and hit a peak in 2018 with 9,933 confirmed cases. Due to reporting discrepancies and various databases, data on the number of legionnaires' cases and deaths is fragmented and varies. However, according to the CDC's National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDS), from 2000 through 2019, a total of 82,352 confirmed Legionnaires disease cases were reported from 52 US jurisdictions. About one in 10 people who become sick will die. The odds of death are higher when the disease is contracted in a hospital setting, with at least one in four dying. Early symptoms of Legionnaire's include fever, loss of appetite, headache, lethargy, muscle pain, and diarrhea. The severity can range from a mild cough to fatal pneumonia, and treating infection early with antibiotics is key for survival. Legionella can colonize and grow within complex communities of microorganisms called biofilms that form on surfaces within water systems. In general, the CDC reports that cases of Legionnaires' disease have been increasing since the early 2000s, with a peak in 2018 Health officials in New York have issued a warning following the outbreak of a deadly lung disease in parts of the city Once there, the bacteria seeps into the water and becomes aerosolized. Plumbing systems, especially those associated with warm water, such as hot water tanks and distribution pipes, can also serve as reservoirs for Legionella bacteria to multiply. From there it can contaminate water in pipes. Stagnant or low-flow areas in pipes also foster Legionella growth. Legionella bacteria can multiply significantly in the hot water systems of large buildings like hospitals due to several factors, such as water temperatures below 50 degrees Celsius, areas where water doesn't flow well and collects, the presence of amoebas and other bacteria, and the materials used in the pipes. Earlier this year, one person died and several were hospitalized due to an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease at a senior living facility in Vermont. It originated from the care home's water system. Another recent victim of Legionnaires' was 71-year-old Barbara Kruschwitz from Massachusetts died of the disease in 2023 one week after staying at a resort in New Hampshire. Her husband Henry said she had gone swimming in the hotel's pool and hot tub. He said: 'Her heart had stopped and she couldn't be revived. And - that's about as much as I can say.' Water treatment plants typically use a disinfectant such as chlorine to clean out the potable water system. The most reliable way to determine if your water is contaminated with Legionella is to have it tested by a qualified laboratory. Home testing kits are also available, which involve collecting water samples and sending them to a lab for analysis. A nurse left in 'excruciating pain' after landing on her head while performing a somersault was dismissed by doctorswho completely missed that she had fractured her spine. It was only after Brooke Bowen, 21, got so fed up of having her concerns repeatedly shrugged off and she sought a private opinion that she discovered the seriousness of her injuries, which she says could leave her paralysed. The saga began on April 22 of this year when Ms Bowen, of Wakefield in West Yorkshire, attended a gym class with her friend after their cheerleading practice was cancelled. The paediatric nurse attempted a somersault into the establishment's foam pita trick she said she had done 100 times before. But despite her extensive experience, she landed on her head, hitting the hard floor below, as seen in video footage. Recalling what happened, she said: 'I got upside down and I knew I wasn't going to make it round and fell down on my head... It was the worst pain in the world.' Immediately, she experienced excruciating shooting pains in her neck and back, so she took some painkillers. And when the pain worsened overnight, she went to the A&E department in the nearby Pinderfields Hospital to get checked out. The nurse, Brooke Bowen, right before attempting the somersault (left) and landing head first in the foam pit (right) The nurse went to the gym where she did the trick after her cheerleading class was cancelled But, sadly, Brooke claims that despite showing the staff the video and explaining how severe her pain was, she was told it wasn't 'traumatic enough' to require a surgery. On her experience at the hospital, she said: 'I'm a nurse so I told them I couldn't go to work in this kind of pain. 'In the end they ended up doing an x-ray as I fought for it, but they said it was fine, and they sent me home.' After the hospital sent her home, Ms Bowen said she spent two months going back and forth to her GP for pain medication. 'I feel like I wasn't initially listened too. I've been in work and have still gone to cheerleading since the injury as I didn't know I had the injury,' she said It wasn't until she reached out for a private medical scan through her insurance that she discovered on June 20, that she had fractured her spine in two places. This was in the third (C3) and fourth (C4) cervical vertebrae, which are both located in the neck. 'They said they were stable fractures but if I started to get these certain symptoms I needed to get medical attention,' she said. The nurse before she fractured her spine in two places (left) and after in the hospital (left) She was also later told she had spinal injuries to her C5 and C6, with bruising that was compressing. Just two days later, she woke up with pins and needles in her legs as well as cramping in her arm and she was admitted to hospital for 10 days. 'I could still walk but I couldn't go to the toilet. I just thought the worst and thought I was going to be paralaysed.' In the hospital in June, she says doctors there told her the symptoms were 'all in her head'. And while there, she said: 'I woke up one day and I couldn't really feel my legs and when I tried to walk, they were really wobbly.' She added: 'Since then I have had left sided weakness in my arm and leg and my legs hardly got any power.' Now, back at home, she struggles to walk and claims she is at risk of becoming paralysed in the next couple of years due to the injury. She believes that if the hospital hadn't missed her pain in April, she may not be facing such severe long-term effects from her injury. Now she has to attend hydrotherapy for six weeks and use a wheelchair to leave the house Since being discharged from hospital, she has to attend hydrotherapy sessions for six weeks and use a wheelchair to leave the house. Although she has been told her fractures 'will just heal' Ms Bowen said she was also told her injury also affected the C5 and C6, with bruising that's compressing. 'The consultant on Monday said I could lose all my ability [in my legs] or I could get it all back and just need to learn to live my life like this. 'It is scary to think that one day I could be paralysed,' she added. 'As it's been so long, I think my injury is worse now as it didn't get treated initially. 'I'll always think that if I was treated at the start I wouldn't be in this position now.' Dr Mark Freeman, deputy chief medical officer at Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust said: 'We pride ourselves on providing the best possible care to our patients.' He added: 'We are sorry to hear Brooke is not happy with the care we provided to her on this occasion. 'If Brooke would like to contact the Trust we would be happy to meet with her and discuss this in more detail.' A former executive at Netflix has filed a lawsuit against the company, claiming her bosses were racist and sexist. Nhuy Phan, who worked as a labor lawyer for Netflix, sued the streaming service on July 21 for wrongful termination, amongst other things. Phan alleges that she was fired after complaining about racial discrimination and sexual harassment at the company, according to the lawsuit. She was hired by Netflix in 2021, at a salary of $400,000 per year, but claims she was wrongfully fired three years later after raising concerns about the behavior of two higherups, Ted Sinclair and Jonah Cozien. Both men were Phan's former supervisors. She alleges that Sinclair discriminated against women of color, and that Cozien sexually harassed a female colleague. The lawsuit details how Phan was allegedly denied certain opportunities because of her race, and how Sinclair encouraged white women to take credit for her work. 'During Mr. Sinclair's regular biweekly meeting among labor relations staff... Mr. Sinclair encouraged a white employee, Ms. Bell, to take credit for work on prototype contributions to the DGA pension plan an issue that Ms. Phan had identified and work on for months,' the suit alleges. Phan alleges that she and other women of color were denied opportunities that were given to similarly situated white men while working at Netflix. Nhu-Y Phan, a former executive at Netflix, has filed a lawsuit against the company, claiming her bosses were racist and sexist Nhuy Phan, who worked as a labor lawyer for Netflix, sued the streaming service on July 21 for wrongful termination, amongst other things She complained to HR that her supervisor, Ted Sinclair, engaged in 'microaggressions and micromanagements' toward her. Addressing the sexual harassment allegations, the lawsuit noted that a female colleague of the former Netflix executive confided in her that Cozien her supervisor at the time was engaging in conduct that Phan understood to constitute sexual harassment. Cozien allegedly repeatedly invited Phan's colleague, Sharon Ellica, to lunch, dinner and drinks outside the office. The lawsuit also states that Cozien would send Ellica direct messages propositioning her for more outings using Google chat, which at that time had a default setting ensuring messages would be automatically deleted after 24 hours. 'Ms. Ellica told Ms. Phan that Mr. Cozien's behavior was 'weird' and made her very 'uncomfortable',' the lawsuit stated. According to the lawsuit, Phan found her boss's conduct to be highly offensive and she felt intimidated in her presence, causing her great stress and anxiety. Phan said she felt uncomfortable to be alone with Cozien, and she reported his behavior. The lawsuit claims that both Cozien and Sinclair retaliated against Phan by providing critical written 360 feedback reports in June 2024. Phan claims she was wrongfully fired three years later after raising concerns about the behavior of two higherups at Netflix, Ted Sinclair and Jonah Cozien She complained to HR that her supervisor, Ted Sinclair (pictured), engaged in 'microaggressions and micromanagements' toward her Then, the men 'conspired to have Ms. Phan fired', and she was ultimately terminated for alleged 'performance issues', the suit states. The lawsuit outlines nine counts in Phan's complaint: discrimination, harassment, retaliation, failure to remedy/prevent discrimination and harassment, retaliation, wrongful termination, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence and negligent hiring, supervision or retention of an employee. 'Ms. Phan has been devastated both economically and emotionally by her wrongful discharge,' the suit claims. 'Once a highly compensated professional with a sterling reputation, Ms. Phan faces an uphill battle finding comparable employment. The stress and humiliation of her termination, loss of income and damaged reputation have been profound,' it continues. The Daily Mail has reached out to Netflix and Phan for comment. Piers Morgan mocked Steven Colbert over the cancelation of his show, asking why the comic needed 200 employees for him to parrot the same tired Trump gags every night. Morgan took aim at Colbert during an appearance on Fox News on Tuesday, saying the now-cancelled The Late Show was boring and unoriginal. 'Ive never read so much, or heard so much guff about a reason for a guy getting canceled. His ratings were tanking, he was costing them $40million a year, he had 200 staff.... 200 people! And all they do all day is prepare anti-Trump jokes,' Morgan said. Morgan is well-placed to condemn Colbert, as the former host of Pier's Morgan Live, CNN's replacement for Larry King Live. The show began in 2011 and was canceled in 2014 amid poor ratings, but Morgan has always been humble and honest about the reasons for its failure. He went on to also discuss other late night hosts he said focus on president Trump too much, including Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers and John Oliver. 'Its a one-trick pony. Trump-bashing, Trump-bashing, Trump-bashing,' Morgan added. 'And what happened is, in the election, America went, You know what? We quite like Trump. So were gonna vote him back in because were sick of you whiny liberals."' Piers Morgan brutally mocked Steven Colbert after his late night show was cancelled, asking why the comic needed 200 employees to make 'the same old Trump jokes' every night Colbert used the term 'big fat bribe' to describe the settlement between Paramount and Trump, two says before it was announced that his show would disappear from screens Morgan, who described himself as a former liberal sickened by woke excesses, then predicted that Colbert 'wont be the only one that goes.' 'People want to see uncensored, unfiltered comment the kind of get here around the sofa,' he explained. 'They dont want to see a one-trick, whiny pony telling everyone all the time the guy they voted for is terrible. They dont agree!' It comes after Colbert was further humiliated after fewer than two dozen people showed up to protest Paramount's decision to cancel his show. The group staged the 'We're with Colbert' protest outside of the CBS Broadcast Center in on Sunday. CBS announced the cancellation of the Late Show with Stephen Colbert earlier this month, just days after the host blasted the network's $16 million settlement with President Trump as a 'big fat bribe.' Executives said the decision was made after the show, which costs $100 million a year to make, ended up plunging $40 million into the red. Colbert earns between $15 million and $20 million a year, with his enormous staff likely making up most of the rest of the cost. Colbert's show, which began in 2015, will now come to an end in May 2026, executives with the network and Paramount, its new parent company, announced. Morgan, who often jokes about his own CNN cancellation due to poor ratings, predicted that Colbert 'wont be the only one that goes' Protestors had gathered outside of the CBS broadcast center in New York City on Sunday, in low numbers 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will end its historic run in May 2026 at the end of the broadcast season,' they said in a statement. 'We consider Stephen Colbert irreplaceable and will retire the Late Show franchise at that time,' the executives continued. 'We are proud that Stephen called CBS home. He and his broadcast will be remembered in the pantheon of greats that graced late night television.' The network explained that the decision to cancel the show is 'purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night.' 'It is not related in any way to the shows performance, content or other matters happening at Paramount,' it added. Summer is the time for road trips, family gatherings, and excursions with friends, with many people choosing to share lifts for enjoyment and convenience. But drivers have been warned that charging your friends for lifts could land you in very hot water with your insurance provider. Car insurance experts at MoneySuperMarket have urged caution about asking friends to chip in to cover petrol money, especially if theyre charging more than the journey actually costs. This is because the harmless activity of offering lifts to mates could actually be interpreted by insurers as a profit-making activity if you overcharge for fuel. Blurring the lines between cost sharing and commercial gain could potentially invalidate your policy, leaving you uninsured without realising it, and liable to severe consequences. Alice Hempsted, car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: 'If youre in an accident under these conditions [making a mark-up on fuel costs], your insurer could reject your claim or even cancel your policy entirely. Thats not just costly - it could lead to fines or prosecution for driving without insurance. Sharing lifts is good for the environment and the wallet but it could lead to serious consequences if you charge your passengers too much for petrol and make a profit. You could invalidate your insurance experts are warning MoneySuperMarket says that the difference between charging a mate 10 for fuel when their share was only 5 can be all it takes to invalidate insurance. Hempstead explains that insurers may view that as profit. That small mark-up could shift you into the hire and reward category, which entails transporting people for money, which isnt covered by most personal car insurance policies, she elaborated. And the consequences can be severe. If you're involved in an accident under these conditions, insurers could void your policy from the beginning, meaning its treated as if it never existed. They may also refuse to pay out for any damages or injuries, and in some cases, report you for driving without valid insurance. 'This isnt just about a rejected claim,' Hempstead cautions. 'You could be left with huge out-of-pocket costs, points on your licence, or even a prosecution for uninsured driving.' Just overcharging 5 could be 'viewed as making a profit' by your car insurance provider and invalidate your insurance. 'Dire' consequences include having a void policy, and your insurer refusing to pay out for damage or injuries, MoneySuperMarket experts are cautioning What is allowed when you lift share? The line is clear between sharing costs and making a profit. Hempstead says: HMRC and the Association of British Insurers both acknowledge that genuine cost-sharing is allowed. 'But the moment you start earning, even a small amount, it could be viewed as commercial activity. How to make sure youre only charging the right amount MoneySuperMarket warns motorists to only ever ask passengers to cover what the trip actually costs you in fuel and vehicle costs. An easy way to do this is to use the HMRC mileage rate; the (current) 45p per mile rate covers fuel, everyday wear and tear like servicing, insurance and tyres. There are fuel cost calculators online too which are a useful way to check youre charging your passengers the right amount. Its also wise to carefully review your car insurance policy to check if there are specific allowances for lift sharing. Never advertise lifts or regularly offer people outside your household lifts and then charge more than the exact amount that petrol and vehicle wear costs Other issues relating to giving lifts There are several behaviours that raise red flags with insurers MoneySuperMarket warns. Regularly offering people outside your household lifts in exchange for money is inadvisable, as is charging more than the actual cost of fuel and vehicle wear (as weve covered). Advertising your availability for lifts on social media or online forums could also be interpreted as providing a paid-for service so avoid doing either of these. If you are considering using your car for more regular income, then you need to make sure you take out the proper insurance. Hempstead says: 'If for example youre thinking about driving for Uber or doing delivery work, you need the proper business use or hire and reward cover. 'Its worth comparing quotes to get the right protection for how you use your vehicle. A suspicious smell aboard a transatlantic Air France flight sparked panic and forced the plane to make an emergency landing on Monday. Flight AF460 departed from Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris on Monday at 10:23am bound for Brazil's Sao Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport in Sao Paulo. About an hour into the flight, passengers the crew reported an 'unusual odor in the cabin' that smelled like something burning, according to French media reports. After the crew inspected the galley in the aircraft's executive area but failed to find the source of the odor, the plane's captain alerted air-traffic control. The Boeing 777-328 was flying 29,000 feet over the Atlantic Ocean when it was diverted to BordeauxMerignac Airport in Bordeaux, France. The aircraft, which was carrying 252 passengers, made an emergency landing at 12:25pm without any issues. Air France did not respond to the Daily Mail's request for information on the source of the smell. A video filmed by Gustavo Reis, the former mayor of the Brazilian city of Jaguariuna, claimed to showed fuel being dumped from the plane to reduce the aircraft's weight and provide a safe landing. A video filmed by Gustavo Reis, the former mayor of the Brazilian city of Jaguariuna, claimed to showed fuel being dumped from the plane to reduce the aircraft's weight and provide a safe landing Another video posted by Reis showed firefighters inspecting the galley as he and other passengers waited to deplane FlightAware tracked Air France Flight 460 being diverted to BordeauxMerignac Airport, where it landed two hours after it departed from Paris on its way to Sao Paulo, Brazil 'Return flight problems, plane had to dump fuel in the air and make emergency landing in Bordeaux,' read a caption on Reis' Instagram Story. A separate video posted by Reis showed firefighters inspecting the galley as he and other passengers waited to deplane. Air France dispatched a new aircraft to Bordeaux later in the day to fly the passengers back to Paris, where another plan would take them to Sao Paulo. 'Customers were assisted by Air France sales teams at the stopover, who offered them assistance and re-routing solutions as quickly as possible,' the airline said in a statement. 'We regret the inconvenience caused by this situation and reaffirm that the safety of customers and flights is an absolute priority.' The scare occurred the same day an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for New Delhi had to return to Hong Kong just 15 minutes after takeoff due to a mechanical issue. Both incidents occurred just four days after an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner plane crashed moments after taking off from an airport in Ahmedabad. The plane was bound for London with 242 people on board and slammed into several buildings. All but one passenger was killed, along with about 30 people on the ground. A husband went to visit his wife with flowers as she lay dying in hospital of terminal cancer...only to be killed in a car crash as he drove home. Joeldir da Silva, 69, spent Sunday night with his longtime partner, Marineide da Silva, 60, at a hospital in Epia Sul, Brazil. On Monday morning, Joeldir picked a floral arrangement and returned to the room where Marineide, who had been battling cancer for four years, was resting in her bed. Joeldir held the bouquet up high and had some touching words for his wife of many years. He then leaned forward for a hug and kissed her on the forehead before their lips locked. The business owner left the medical facility and was traveling to their residence in Gama when the driver of a Honda City invaded Joeldir's lane and struck his Renault Kwid and a police vehicle head-on at 6:30 am, police said. Joeldir's daughter and a priest were traveling to the hospital when she recognized his wrecked car. She remained on the scene and asked the priest to perform the last rites on her father. Joeldir da Silva (left) and his wife Marineide da Silva (right) died two days apart this week in Brazil. Joeldir was killed in a car accident Monday morning, hours after he left the hospital where he had spent the night with Marineide, who was battling cancer and died during the early hours of Wednesday, according to the couple's daughter Joeldir (right) and Marineide (left) share a kiss moments after he returned to her hospital room Monday to present her a bouquet of floors. Shortly after leaving the medical facility, Joeldir was killed in an accident after the driver of a vehicle invade his lane and crashed head-on with his car and a police vehicle Joeldir was confirmed dead at the site of the accident. Paramedics rescued the driver of the Honda as well as the police officer and rushed both to an area hospital. Marineide succumbed to her illness and died Wednesday. It is unclear if she was made aware of her husband's death before her own passing. 'My mother is at rest!' the couple's daughter wrote in a social media post. 'At 3:45 a.m., she took her last breath and went to find my father. God welcomed them with open arms, I'm sure!' Joeldir da Silva went viral Monday morning when he presented his wife, who was battling cancer, with a bouquet of flowers. The 69-year-old business owner had spent the previous night with his longtime partner at the hospital in Epia Sul, Brazil and was killed in a car crash after leaving the medical facility Joeldir da Silva's Renault Kwid was found upside down next to a police vehicle after both were slammed into head-on by a Honda City The couple's passing was felt by members of the Gama community, where they set up the town's first pamonharia, an eatery that specialized in making corn-based meals. 'You were the true example of a couple of partnership in life, in love, in work and in faith,' wrote Esmeralda Faria. 'Loyal friends, tireless businessmen, dedicated patriots and human beings of rare and precious values.' 'I knew this couple very well. I loved the pie she made, I would always go there to buy it,' Fernanda Barros said. ' 'The pamonhas were delicious and he was always kind,' she added. 'They were two wonderful people. May God give strength to this daughter and the whole family, and may you be sure that they will be happy together in eternity.' Some 200 investors who paid out an estimated 19million in a suspected fraud fear they may never get their money back. Victims handed their 'hard-earned savings' over to holiday lodge schemes marketed by two estate agents. They were offered lodges in the Dumfries and Galloway region of Scotland at two sites called Landal Barnsoul and Landal Barncrosh, with investors believing Landal was referring to the well-known European holiday operator Landal Greenparks. But the company behind the suspected scam was called Apple Invest - which, according to those acting for the aggrieved investors, had not obtained planning permission for one of the sites, and had no affiliation with the Landal name. The investors are blaming Andrew Anderson, director of Apple Invest, for their predicament. The alleged fraud came to light as investors were eventually told by administrators they owned nothing. Further to this, it is alleged that after the company went into administration it continued selling lodges, contrary to a court injunction issued six months prior. Affiliated companies accused of complicity have distanced themselves from Apple Invest. Police, operating under Operation Banstead, have confirmed two men, both in their 40s, have been arrested - one in Cheshire and one in Essex. Only around 36 of the homes sold to investors were built. They are pictured here at the Landal Barnsoul site The alleged fraud involved lodges in the Dumfries and Galloway region of Scotland. Apple Invest operated under the famous Landal name - despite seemingly having no commercial connection with it Belvedere Leisure Resorts was working together with Apple Invest Ltd before the two directors allegedly fell out While is is believed Apple Invest Ltd has no remaining funds, large sums have allegedly been transferred to companies. Belvedere Leisure Resorts was working together with Apple Invest before the two directors allegedly fell out - though the existence of a joint venture has been denied. With agents that sold the scheme - Advantage Investment and Knight Knox - also denying responsibility and banks refusing to accept any wrongdoing for allowing the transfer of money, the chances of the suspected fraud victims receiving any compensation have been branded slim. Victims also say due to the complexity of the case and number of agents involved the hefty legal costs mean no one may be held accountable. Pensioners and NHS workers have spoken out to discuss the impact the loss of money has had on their lives - with many saying they now suffer from depression and others feeling like they have 'failed' their family. Dave Lindon, who was recovering from a prostate cancer operation when he invested with Advantage Investment Limited in July 2021, said the experience had left him 'very upset'. He explained: 'I was contacted by Advantage Investment Limited in July 2021 after seeing an advert on rightmove.co.uk to buy a luxury holiday lodge at Landal Barnsoul. At the time I was recovering from a prostate cancer operation. 'I lost 90,000 which was a large element of my pension savings. Pictured is one of the suspect deeds given to an investor - which investors believe to be illegitimate as they say they have been listed as unsecured creditors 'This experience has left me feeling very upset and I no longer trust anything or anyone when it comes to finance. 'I know several other people have lost significantly more than me and I am sure we all feel rather helpless. 'It seems obvious that several companies are involved in this scam but as yet the police haven't confirmed and banks are playing hardball. At least 10million has gone missing with total fraud circa 19million.' Janet Penny, a 75-year-old who works in dentistry said she had now 'lost all my pension savings' after undertaking her second lodge investment. She explained: 'I have to continue to work and have honestly become very ill.' Yasemin Iscan said she had met an estate agent in the year 2023 which was the 'worst decision of my life'. She said: 'I was 33, naive and I even told them that this was my first ever investment and property purchase. 'I invested 75,000 cash into this scam. Dave Lindon (pictured), who was recovering from a prostate cancer operation when he invested with Advantage Investment Limited in July 2021, said the experience had left him 'very upset' 'When I found out I lost all my life savings, I was hospitalised and had temporary amnesia due to all the pain and trauma this has caused me. 'I have so much shame around my idiocy that I will never be able to trust anyone ever again.' Jacquie Robinson, who also invested 85,000 in a holiday lodge in the Dumfries and Galloway site in October 2022, said she initially received the payments through to her account which allowed her to 'semi-retire'. But all of a sudden the money 'stopped' and Ms Robinson has said she is working full time again, living on her 'employer's carpark in her camper van for five days a week'. Steven, from Hertfordshire, added he purchased three lodges worth 234,000 in 2023 through Advantage Investment. He explained: 'The steady income was meant to help with my rent and car payments on top on my full time job. 'I've lost my house and everything I own. 'I'm now living with my partner unable to help with rent trying to pay off all my debts. Jacquie Robinson, who also invested 85,000 in a holiday lodge in the Dumfries and Galloway site through Advantage Investment Ltd in October 2022, said she initially received the payments through to her account which allowed her to 'semi-retire' Dhary Al Thamer, who invested 95k with Advantage Investments and 'convinced' his father to invest 400k, said he could 'no longer look him in the eye' Refundee - a claims management company - is currently seeking compensation for investors who have lost money on the grounds it is an suspected APP (Authorised Push Payment) scam 'My mental health has suffered a lot with self harm and running away from home and everything since. Each day, week, month I'm anxious just trying to make sure I can get by. 'This investment has completely ruined my life.' While around 90 per cent of people who have lost their cash to the scheme are British, some international investors have also been affected. Dhary Al Thamer, who invested 95k with Advantage Investment and 'convinced' his father to invest 400k, said he could 'no longer look him in the eye'. He explained: 'This experience without a doubt changed my life. As a non-UK resident, you always think the UK is a safe country where there would be laws to protect you from scammers. 'I havent been the same since then, I cant look my father in the eye. I failed him and our family.' Chan, from Hong Kong, added: 'I bought a lodge and lost 85k in 2023. 'I am far away and have no protection in the UK. I have no money to support my familys medical bills and kids education anymore.' Refundee - a claims management company - is currently seeking compensation for investors who have lost money on the grounds it is a suspected APP (Authorised Push Payment) scam and the alleged money laundering should have been picked up by the banking system. Thus far, banks have denied any responsibility, and the case is now with the Financial Ombudsman. An Advantage Investment spokesman said: 'Advantage Investment is aware of the criminal Police investigation into this and have assisted with the enquiry. We have also assisted all investors to the best of our ability and will continue to do so. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing investigation we cannot comment on the matter any further.' A Knight Knox spokesman said: 'Knight Knox is aware of the police investigation into Apple Invest and has assisted with that enquiry. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing Police investigation, we cannot comment on the matter any further.' Andrew Anderson has been contacted for comment. A grieving father whose daughter took her own life has blamed River Island for her plummeting mental health - after the way she was treated following a workplace injury. Katie French, who worked as a window dresser at the fashion firm, felt let down by staff after suffering a prolapsed disc through lifting heavy items at work, her family claims. Three years after leaving the firm in 2018, the 35-year-old took her own life at her parent's house in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, having fallen into a 'very dark place'. Her heartbroken father Peter French, 73, is fighting for answers after an inquest into her suicide failed to make any findings of culpability against River Island. The father told Daily Mail: 'She was in such a bad place she couldn't cope. 'She kept saying 'I used to hate it when trains were held up because someone was a jumper, it's very selfish, but I'm now that jumper'. 'I brought her into this world and I was the last one to see her.' Mr French claimed Katie was asked to work in a dismal warehouse in Oxford, despite her giving more than a decade of hard work and dedication to the firm. Peter French, 73, (left) has blamed River Island after claiming a workplace injury prompted Katie French (right) to spiral into depression Katie (pictured with her rescue dog Minnie) took her own life at her parents' house in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, having fallen into a 'very dark place' Mr French is pictured with the ashes of his daughter Katie and her beloved rescue dog, Minnie The father put his branded shirts in a River Island store The father staged a one-man protest this month demanding a meeting with senior company bosses at offices in Hangar Lane, London, while wearing a shirt bearing a slogan criticising River Island. He is also threatening to distribute 6,000 of his branded shirts to the firm's stores across the country. 'They were just unbelievable,' he said. 'At the drop of a hat they'd say you need to do this and you need to do that. 'Where she was working it [...] wasn't fit for purpose. 'There was stuff stacked up all over the place. 'That was when she felt they basically wanted to get rid of her. It made her feel bad so she went off and saw the doctors and they signed her off sick. 'I think it was the fact that this was her only fulltime job she'd ever had.' He is appealing to the High Court to challenge an inquest held on December 1, 2021, claiming the Coroner failed to address what he believes is the culpability of the company. Katie was an animal lover and adored dogs, including her rescue dog Minnie Mr French claimed Katie was asked to work in a dismal warehouse in Oxford, despite her giving more than a decade of hard work and dedication to the firm The father claimed his daughter was already in a 'dark place' when her relationship broke down and she lost her beloved rescue dog, Minnie. 'Her partner said I can't deal with you anymore, he said he'd come home from work and she'd still be in bed. He was a lovely guy, he really was a nice guy. He said I just couldn't deal with her, I would have lost my job,' he said. 'He said she was so difficult to deal with. That was right from the time she finished with River Island. 'She had jobs in between but she could never get into a job. We had lockdown as well and she found that difficult because she was an outgoing person. 'She was round our house and our son was helping us put something together, and she had a glass of wine, and she just suddenly threw it and said I can't take anymore. She said I feel like jumping off a bridge. 'I was the first one to see her, first one to touch her, and then of course I found her.' The father claimed his daughter was already in a 'dark place' when her relationship broke down and she lost her beloved rescue dog Katie's ashes are kept alongside her dog Minnie's in her childhood bedroom in Stevenage where she died Mr French said his daughter checked to see if he'd be ok the day before she decided to take her own life. 'At the time I was building a house for ourselves, and she was doing the designing of bits and pieces for me,' he said. 'On the Friday before she took her life on the Saturday, she said 'is everything ordered now? You'll be ok with everything?' And I think she'd made her mind up. 'She was lovely, an absolutely soft human being. All her friends were like 'we can't believe it, she was the life and soul of the party'. She arranged all the holidays, she was a pretty girl, had everything going for her. 'When she was a youngster she was a fantastic Judo player, she trained with the English squad, she was fit, and she had always done well at school.' He says Katie had worked all around the world for the firm - including the Middle East and Russia - and was involved in launching Rihanna's River Island range. But after suffering a prolapsed disc through lifting heavy items at work, she felt, her father claims, unfairly treated. Mr French said: 'Katie gave her heart and soul to River Island. They repaid her years of dedication with [...] indifference after she became physically impaired through the heavy lifting required in her job. 'When she was further injured by being hit in a company car accident, instead of rehabilitating her or redeploying her to another less physical marketing role [she felt that] they isolated her, cutting off her support so she would get the hint and go away.' Katie's ashes are kept alongside her dog Minnie's in her childhood bedroom in Stevenage where she died. It is understood they have investigated Katie's grievances and found no evidence to support Mr French's claims. A River Island spokesperson said: 'The circumstances surrounding Katie French's death are tragic and we are sympathetic to the enduring pain and suffering of her family and those who knew her. 'River Island management met with grieving family members to hear their concerns in 2021. Following this we commissioned an independent investigation which subsequently found that River Island had fulfilled its obligations as a responsible employer. 'River Island has a strong commitment to the physical and mental wellbeing of all its employees.' - For confidential support call Samaritans on 116123 or visit www.samaritans.org America's homelessness crisis is fueled not just by sky-high rents or economic hardship, but by the unprecedented wave of asylum seekers flooding shelters under ex-president Joe Biden's watch, a bombshell new study reveals. Researchers from the University of Chicago and Dartmouth College have linked a staggering 60 percent of the record 43 percent rise in people living in US homeless shelters between 2022 and 2024 to newly arrived immigrants seeking asylum. The eye-opening paper, bluntly titled 'Asylum seekers and the rise in homelessness', lays bare the enormous burden placed on a handful of American cities and the taxpayers footing the multibillion-dollar bill. 'Substantially more than half of the increase in homelessness comes from migration, rather than new individuals falling into poverty,' the University of Chicago's Bruce Meyer said. 'Federal immigration policy changes under the Trump administration that narrow pathways to asylum are likely to slow the growth of sheltered homelessness in the years ahead.' Meyer said his paper, which partly backs President Donald Trump's border crackdown, was proving 'unpopular' in academic circles - a factor he believes might explain why it has been largely ignored by the mainstream media. Data from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development show that 771,480 people were homeless in America at the start of 2024 - an alarming 18 percent increase from 2023. Between 2022 and 2024, the number of homeless people in shelters reversed a 16-year decline and skyrocketed by 43 percent. Homeless migrants wait in line to get a bed in a New York City church during the surge in January 2024 Researchers now say that asylum seekers massively drove up America's homeless crisis, seen here in Boston The researchers estimate that 60 percent of this rise was driven by asylum seekers. Meyer's study takes a sledgehammer to the public debate and previous academic papers that attributed the rise to housing costs and the end of pandemic-era protections. While those factors do play a role, the researchers found they don't explain the scale or the geographic concentration of the shelter crisis. Instead, asylum policy changes under the Biden administration - including the rollback of anti-immigrant policies from Trump's first term - drove the problem. Biden's policies included streamlining asylum appointments and temporary 'parole' entry permits at the deluged southern border, says the 21-page report. New York City, Chicago, suburban Boston and Denver bore the brunt of the crisis, says the report, which was co-authored by Angela Wyse and Douglas Williams. Pictured: The University of Chicago's Bruce Meyer These four jurisdictions alone accounted for 75 percent of the national rise in homeless shelter populations, with more than 77,000 new homeless people in New York City alone. Each of them experienced a flood of asylum seekers, forcing local officials to scramble for emergency housing; often transforming schools, hotels and airports into makeshift shelters. The costs were sky-high. According to the researchers, sheltering a single migrant family in New York City costs an eye-watering average of $137,600 a year. In Massachusetts, that figure hits $120,000. Notably, the study does not blame asylum seekers for the rise in unsheltered homelessness - those sleeping in tent cities and on sidewalks - which has been on the rise for years. The academic research comes down in part supporting the immigration policy of President Donald Trump, seen here at a migrant lockup facility in Florida New York, Chicago, Massachusetts and Denver bore the brunt of the crisis About two thirds of America's homeless population are living in shelters, the rest are on the streets Biden-era policies saw a surge of migrants that cost its cities and taxpayers dearly, says the report New York City's Mayor Eric Adams says Trump's border crackdown brought 'real relief' to his city But it does make clear that massive immigration surges are driving costs and chaos in city-run shelters. The findings add fuel to an already fiery political debate over border security, which dominated the 2024 election and has continued amid the deportation blitz of Trump's second administration. The President won last year's election on the back of his popular immigration policies, leading even some Democratic politicians to turn against Biden's open-door approach to foreigners. New York City's Democratic Mayor Eric Adams on Wednesday praised Trump for securing the southern border for providing 'real relief' to his city. 'We're now down to less than 100 migrant asylum seekers coming into our city a week, and that's due to the securing of the border,' Adams told the Pod Force One podcast. 'The Trump administration secured the border, and because of that, you're not seeing the thousands of people coming in, and it has been a real relief for our city.' The mayor noted that the $7.7 billion the city spent on the housing and care of illegal immigrants over the past few years 'could have gone to other services' for hard-up New Yorkers. Meyer says his report raised eyebrows among his liberal-leaning academic colleagues as 'controversial' for in some way endorsing Trump's tough border policies. He also said he struggled to get airtime for research that 'went along with the narrative that Democrats did not want to emphasize.' This landmark study may force a dramatic rethink of homelessness policy across the US - one that considers not just local economic struggles, but the global migration crisis playing out on America's streets. Welcome or not, the asylum wave has changed the face of homelessness in America - and the costs are mounting by the day. A tenant claims she has been left with severe health problems because of the mould in her rental as she prepares to take her landlord to the regulatory tribunal. Ksenia Pavlovskaya, 43, moved to Australia from Russia to study at the Australian Institute of Fitness and work in wellness nine years ago. She moved into a granny flat at North Curl Curl, on Sydney's leafy Northern Beaches, in 2022 where she planned to raise her 15-year-old son. Ms Pavlovskaya claims that in January this year, her son noticed his mattress and bedroom in the back of the property were beginning to grow mould. 'The smell was so horrible inside. It was already like a swamp,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'My son's bedroom was affected the most, like he noticed it first. He started telling me the carpet smells. It's hard to breathe.' Ms Pavlovskaya's son then moved to live with his father, who now receives child support from the personal trainer. The mother revealed she was diagnosed five months later with critically low ferritin levels, and other symptoms related to mould illness. Sydney personal trainer Ksenia Pavlovskaya, 43, (pictured) says she was forced to live apart from her teenage son after mould spread through her rented granny flat The mother-of-one claims ants and mould spread around her flat and left her physically ill and unable to continue her normal workload (above, ants and mould in the flat) The diagnosis has prompted her to take her landlord to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). The 43-year-old has suffered fatigue, coughing, chest pain, and anxiety since the beginning of the year. 'Usually, I'm the one who wakes up at 5am, and it's been easy for me, but not any more, because of my situation,' Ms Pavlovskaya said. 'When I started to feel low energy and getting sick, my income dropped because I could not perform the same amount of physical work.' Ms Pavlovskaya said she raised the issue in January with the property manager and her landlord - who lives in the main residence of the Curl Curl property. She claimed she was told to simply open the windows, which has not helped at all, as the mould has since spread to the ceilings, furniture, and air conditioning unit. Ms Pavlovskaya said she believed the mould issue stemmed from the flat's porous sandstone foundation and shaded position at the back of the property. Inside, she said the granny flat resembles a 'zoo' with ants everywhere and a 'musty', 'boggy' aroma. The trainer (above) alleged the propertys owner and real estate agent ignored or downplayed her repeated complaints for months The 43-year-old (above) has suffered fatigue, coughing, chest pain and anxiety since the beginning of the year Ms Pavlovskaya went to the doctor in June, who linked her symptoms and critically low ferritin levels to mould exposure. Further battles with the homeowner then led to an anxiety diagnosis. 'Whenever I politely ask them, they always try to tell me that everything is my fault.' 'They always try to tell me, "We've done so many things for you." But they didn't fix the issue. The issue is still here.' Ms Pavlovskaya said patch fixes, including 'fogging', done after moisture is removed, and a cleaning company's efforts to 'wipe away' the mould were ineffective. She said the $780-per-week flat was not fitted with adequate ventilation or preventative features, including a fan underneath the property and dehumidifier, which Ms Pavlovskaya claimed were only provided recently. Ms Pavlovskaya was offered the option to move out of the flat and the landlord would waive the fee for breaking the lease. Instead, she has decided to pursue the landlord and property manager not only for herself, but for other renters who find themselves in similar situations in Sydney. Mould growing on weights stored at the granny flat on Sydney's Northern Beaches She said she is taking her fight to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal, hoping to spark broader change (above, mould on items from her home) 'I would like to achieve justice because I see that this is a big issue,' she said. 'So many of them are suffering, but they're scared to speak up. They don't want to go to tribunal because they think the landlord will screw them. 'But if they see I was able to protect myself, maybe they will speak up when they have a problem.' The ordeal has shocked even friends who are living overseas. 'Everyone is telling me, "I can't believe this is happening to you. Oh, my God, I can't believe this happening in Australia.",' she said. 'It's the type of thing to happen somewhere in Russia.' Daily Mail Australia contacted the landlord and homeowner for comment. The homeowner declined to comment ahead of the NCAT hearing, but said 'there are always two sides to every story'. The parties will head to mediation on Tuesday. Nearly a thousand businesses the length and breadth of Britain were fined more than 37million for employing illegal workers last year. Firms received penalties of up to 360,000 as part of the clampdown, which exposes the vast size of the UK's 'dark economy'. The ability to work without papers is considered a major pull factor for migrants overstaying visas or arriving illegally on small boats and lorries. MailOnline used Home Office data covering the whole of 2024 to name and shame businesses that have been caught out. They range from car washes, barbers, salons, hotels and takeaways to haulage firms, care providers and home renovation services. The biggest fine of 360,000 was given to D&T Hand Car Wash in Leatherhead, followed by 280,000 for a south London real estate company called Arya Rae Ltd and 270,000 for nursing agency Wrexham Care in Staffordshire. Also among the top ten were two more car washes, two construction companies, a haulage firm, one care provider and one restaurant - Portofino in New Brighton, Merseyside. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Holton Heath Hand Car Wash Ltd received a 180,000 fine for employing illegal workers Portofino Restaurant in New Brighton, Merseyside, was also fined 180,000 The famous Royal China restaurant in London's Baker Street has repeatedly been fined for employing illegal workers Fines issued by Immigration Enforcement teams totalled 37,625,000, although it is unclear how much of this money has been paid. Businesses found to be employing people illegally face fines of up to 45,000 per worker for the first offence and up to 60,000 per worker for repeat offenders. While many are small firms, inspectors have netted some major names, including the famous Royal China restaurant on London's Baker Street. The well-known eatery has paid fines totalling 470,000 after three visits by immigration officers between 2018 and 2024. At least 20 people were arrested during the raids, which found one staff member who was receiving an hourly rate of 6 while carrying out 66-hour weeks. The council later stripped the venue of its licence to serve alcohol - labelling it 'the worst licensed premises in Westminster'. The latest raid by the Home Office's Central London ICE (Immigration Compliance and Enforcement) took place on May 10 2024, with nine members of staff detained - almost a third of those on duty at the time. The Royal China Group was fined 360,000 on that occasion, with six Indonesian and two Malaysian men deemed to have overstayed visas, and a Chinese woman working in breach of hers. Car wash workers being led away during the raid - one of thousands carried out every year A car wash being raided by Immigration Enforcement officers in August During a raid in Oldham, immigration Enforcement officers found makeshift shipping containers that had been turned into a kitchen and living room The shipping containers had been set up on a scrapyard to house the illegal workers Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. In June, the Home Office revealed its officers had visited more than 9,000 businesses in the previous 12 months for checks on paperwork and working conditions. More than 6,400 people were arrested during the raids. The Home Office said there were a range of industries exploiting migrant workers with businesses often subjecting migrants to 'squalid conditions and illegal working hours' and below-minimum wages. In one case, migrants were found living in appalling conditions inside shipping containers at a car salvage yard in Oldham, where they were paid just 2.33 an hour. The illegal workers, from Malaysia, Lithuania and Belarus, were working between 50 and 60 gruelling hours a week. Officers found makeshift sleeping cabins, fitted with small beds and bathrooms, as well as shipping containers that had been turned into a kitchen and living room. Immigration officials said the migrants were promised accommodation and three meals a day - but once these costs were deducted it is suspected they only received 500 a month, or 2.33 per hour. Last year, MailOnline witnessed more than 30 officers raiding a bedding and mattress factory before making a dozen arrests. MailOnline joined immigration enforcement officers as they stormed a bedding and mattress factory in Tipton last year Workers suspected of being in the UK illegally are led away by a Home Office enforcement team Specialist immigration enforcement teams in six vans surrounded the large warehouse near Tipton in the West Midlands before rushing in just after 10am. Several workers started running away after spotting the officers and tried to hide between timber pallets and piles of mattresses before they were handcuffed. The name of the business, Giomani Designs, was on a sign outside, and its products - which include leather beds and outdoor rattan furniture - were sold direct to consumers online. Officers interviewed all the men at the factory before arresting seven Indian men for suspected illegal working. Those found to be legally employed were allowed to return to their shift. An Australian woman who was run out of Melbourne as a child due to her family's Scientology beliefs has died in Florida. Marion Pouw, 72, died near the Scientology city of Clearwater where she spent much of her life dedicated to the controversial religion and its leader, David Miscavige. Former friends - who say they were cut off from her after they left the church - revealed she had died from pancreatic cancer. Pouw was said to be Miscavige's right-hand woman, with some former Scientologists branding her his 'henchman', while another said she was one of his 'closest lieutenants'. A never-before-seen picture exclusively given to Daily Mail Australia reveals Pouw at her wedding, with Miscavige's wife, Shelly, one of her bridesmaids. Ms Miscavige inexplicably vanished 18 years ago and has never been found. A death notice listed by Tampa funeral home Brewer & Sons shared that Ms Pouw was born on February 7, 1953, and died on June 20, 2025. The listing has since been mysteriously deleted, but still appears online in a Google search. An obituary on US website Echovita revealed that Ms Pouw died in Clermont, Florida, just a stone's throw from Scientology's Clearwater headquarters. Late Australian Scientologist Marion Pouw was said to be leader David Miscavige's lieutenant David's wife Shelly, circled right, was a bridesmaid for Marion and then-husband Bill Dendui The obituary farewelled her 'Earthly form'. Scientology's core belief is that humans are immortal spiritual beings, called thetans, who are in a continual cycle of reincarnation on Earth and other planets. Ms Pouw's work for the church flew mostly under the radar, but she appeared in a Scientology video slamming David's father, the late Ron Miscavige, for leaving the church and writing a memoir about it. Ms Pouw said she had helped Ron at his lowest point when his brother Red died, and that they were close family friends for more than 40 years. In his book Ruthless: Scientology, My Son David Miscavige, and Me, Ron described Pouw as his son's henchman, which infuriated her. 'I find the fact that he references me as a 'top henchman' both offensive and insulting,' she said in the video which was posted online and revealed a lingering trace of her Australian accent. 'I mean we're talking a 40 year relationship a close family friend that's gone out of her way for and cared for him. 'And to now depict that relationship in that manner - a friend doesn't say that about a friend, ever. No matter the circumstances, you just don't say that. 'And I find it very insulting and such a gross misrepresentation of the relationship that that I had with him. 'He was a friend - he's not a friend now - but he was a very close friend. I was family. And frankly, I was stunned.' Ron Miscavige died in 2021, aged 85. Late Scientology founder L Ron Hubbard with his wife, Mary Sue Hubbard and their children Teenage Marion Pouw (right) with Mary Sue Hubbard whom she worked for Pouw and her siblings were raised by Dutch parents in Melbourne, but the family fled to the church's UK HQ in Saint Hill after a 1965 government investigation into the religion, which stifled its activities in Victoria at the time. She was raised alongside fellow Australian Scientology children, Terri, Janis and Peter Gillham. According to Janis and fellow former Scientologist Mark Fisher, who co-host Scientology - Peeling The Onion, a YouTube series on life outside of the church, Marion spent her 'entire life' in the organisation's shadowy pseudo-navy, Sea Org. Janis said Pouw's family left Scientology when she was a teenager, but as soon as she turned 17, she returned and signed up for Sea Org, an 'elite' subsection of the religion that spent much of its time at sea. Pouw rapidly ascended the ranks, and became an assistant for Mary Sue Hubbard - the wife of Scientology founder, L Ron Hubbard. It's understood she was incredibly close to the Scientology boss, especially in his latter years before his death in 1986. Her unwavering loyalty then switched to his successor, Miscavige. They were so close that Miscavige's wife Shelly was a bridesmaid in Pouw's wedding to fellow Scientologist, Bill Meisner. Shelly has been a subject of global fascination since vanishing in 2007. David's wife Shelly Miscavige has not been publicly seen since 2007 Actress and former Scientologist Leah Remini has been campaigning to find Shelly Actress and former Scientologist Leah Remini has been tireless in her quest to find Shelly, but Pouw never publicly commented on her friend's disappearance. Janis, who left the church in 1990, was devastated that her friend and Aussie compatriot had died without ever getting to reconnect with her. She exclusively shared pictures of Marion with Daily Mail Australia. 'She had a dedication and drive to Scientology...but had a goodness about her that got buried,' Janis said. Her YouTube co-host Mark Fisher countered Janis' kind words by saying, 'But she chose that [the church] over her family and her friends that she'd known for years'. Janis added: 'The sad part is she didn't go back to Holland to see her mum and dad. 'When her father passed away, he didn't tell Marion [that he was dying]. His thoughts were that, 'She didn't care enough about me when I was alive, why would she care that I'm dead?' 'They missed so many years with her, so there is that big hole.' Janis, who now lives in Las Vegas, Nevada, recalled Pouw lecturing her father Peter Gillham Sr that he needed to 'Handle Janis and Peter Jr' after they left because they'd been 'speaking out against the church'. Janis discussed Marion's passing with fellow former Scientologist Mark Fisher last week Marion, third from left, is seen with Janis and her sister Terri, and another woman Marion in an LA apartment with friends in 1982 - she worked for the church in Hollywood Marion blows bubbles to a baby held by Janis' sister Terri, a fellow Australian Scientologist Janis revealed her regret that Pouw did not come to see her, even if it was to apparently silence them. 'If Marion had come to see us, we would have turned her,' she said. She alleged Pouw had formed a crucial part of Scientology's defence of mass protests in the mid-2000s, which were sparked by an expose from internet activists Anonymous. 'She would go around and rope people back in [to the church] for Miscavige,' she said. It is believed Pouw's mother Wilma is still alive, in her 90s, and living in the Netherlands. Janis' late mother Yvonne was the brains behind Scientology's world-famous Celebrity Center in Los Angeles. The church responded angrily to speculation about Ms Pouw's life and death when approached by Daily Mail Australia. 'How dare you use someone's deathsomeone who cannot respondto spread lies,' said public affairs spokesman Karin Pouw, believed to be Marion's sister-in-law. 'Marion would be outraged to know her honorable name is being used to promote a bigoted agenda against the Church she served and the people she so deeply cared for. 'Marion stood for truth, compassion, and justice. That her name would be used to spread lies would violate everything she lived for and hurt those she truly loved. 'Marion is deeply missed and will long be remembered by her true friends who worked side by side with her day in and day out for five decades. 'We urge you to reconsider what you are doing. If you proceed, you will not only be spreading falsehoodsyou will be participating in the willful defamation of someone who can no longer defend herself, but who is not without people willing to do so. 'This is not a matter of debate or perspective. It is a matter of decency.' The Colorado dentist accused of fatally poisoning his wife admitted in writing to filling her antibiotic capsules with cyanide and bringing a poison-filled syringe to her hospital room, his murder trial heard on Monday. Craig, now 47, made the sensational confessions in an iPhone note he wrote on his device in the hours after he was confronted by a longtime friend about a suspicious order of cyanide to his workplace - and in the hours after doctors told Craig his wife was essentially brain dead. Craig is charged with first-degree murder in connection with the March 2023 death of his wife, Angela, 43, the mother of his six children. Prosecutors argue the dentist poisoned her with cyanide, arsenic and tetrahydrozoline, a chemical found in eyedrops, amidst mounting financial troubles and extramarital affairs, particularly a budding romance with a Texas orthodontist. The defense contends Angela was suicidal and 'manipulative' - and jurors heard portions of Craig's iPhone note explanation read out in court Monday by Aurora Det. Bobbi Jo Olson, whose testimony was continuing from Friday. Police had cordoned off Craig's home and denied the dentist access by the time he typed the four-page 'timeline' into his iPhone in the early hours of March 16, 2023. The trial has heard from witnesses how, on March 15, Craig's longtime friend and business partner, Ryan Redfearn, told hospital staff Craig had ordered a 'personal package' of potassium cyanide to the dental practice. That set off a police investigation. Craig and his children stayed overnight with friends - and Craig apparently authored the note within the same timeframe. Colorado dentist James Craig, 47, is charged with first-degree murder in connection with the March 2023 poisoning death of his wife, Angela Craig's murder trial on Monday heard how, in an explanatory iphone note he wrote in the hours after he was confronted about ordering cyanide, he admitted to putting the poison in prescription capsules and into a diluted syringe - allegedly at his wife's request In it, he wrote that his wife, Angela, had become suicidal after he asked for a divorce, the court heard - and that he was helping her die by poisoning. Angela was taken off life support on March 18. Craig was arrested the following day. When first confronted about cyanide by his friend Dr Ryan Redfearn - who also alerted the hospital, ultimately prompting a police investigation - Craig insisted Angela had asked him to order poisons in a game of 'chicken.' There was no mention of any game of 'chicken' in the iPhone note, Olson testified on Monday. Craig did, however, continue insisting that Angela had wanted to take her own life - and that he'd helped her. 'She told me she intended to drink eyedrops again and then do the cyanide,' Craig wrote in the iPhone note. 'She asked me to put it in a capsule and then, as a backup plan, have a syringe with potassium cyanide dissolved in water.' He wrote: 'I got her Clyndamycin [an antibiotic she was taking for sinus trouble] prescription and filled two capsules with 300mg each of potassium cyanide ... she asked me to do something like a dozen capsules.' Angela's brother and sister-in-law, who'd driven from Utah to help with the couple's children as she grew sicker with mystery symptoms, last week that Craig repeatedly checked to make sure they'd given her Clyndamycin. The trial has heard testimony from four of Craig's misrresses, including 'sugar baby' Carrie Hegaseth, who told the court Craig believed a divorce would financially ruin him Olson also read out a text from Craig to his wife saying that the hospital had 'said yeah' to the prescription - despite his iPhone note claiming she'd asked for the pills herself. According to Craig's timeline, he'd returned home from a dental conference in late February to ask for a divorce after meeting his new orthodontist paramour - but Angela refused and 'said she was just going to end her life.' That's when they both began researching poisons, he insisted - though no such searches were found on Angela's phone, Olson testified. Instead, trial testimony and exhibits have shown Angela made desperate searches for her symptoms while trying to figure out what was making her so sick. Her friends and family have also testified that she loved life, loved being a mother and was in no way suicidal. Texas orthodontist Karin Cain testified tearfully last week about how Craig claimed to be in the final stages of divorce, continuing to woo her as he allegedly poisoned his wife; totally unaware, she agreed to still visit Denver - and he took her hiking and to dinner - as Angela died Craig also claimed in the note that, when briefly alone with Angela in her hospital room on March 15 - after nearly 10 days of her illness, during which she'd repeatedly complained to loved ones that she didn't know why doctors couldn't find a cause - 'she asked me to help her finish the job. 'I told her that I would not administer any of her poisons, but I could give her the syringe that she had asked me to prepare,' Olson read out in Craig's own words. 'I gave her the syringe and turned my back; the next thing I knew, she was saying that her arm hurt, and I turned around and saw the empty syringe' next to her IV port. Craig wrote that he put the syringe in his pocket and informed nurses. 'That must've done the trick, because I don't think she ever regained consciousness,' Craig wrote. Olson testified that, according to hospital surveillance footage, Craig was only in the room with Angela for 60 seconds during this alleged interaction. Against repeated defense objections, Deputy District Attorney Michael Mauro on Monday asked Olson to confirm that Craig's iPhone note contradicted other explanations he'd given about Angela's death. The dentist has alternately claimed that Angela was playing a game of 'chicken;' that she miscalculated her poison dosage; and that she'd been trying to frame him. None of these scenarios appeared in his iPhone note, Olson told the court. The trial also heard on Monday how the Clindamycin prescription bottle vanished from the house after Craig was allowed back in - before investigators could test its contents. Craig's defense team argues that Angela was suicidal and 'manipulative.' Defense attorney Lisa Fine Moses, during cross-examination of Olson, began by highlighting the publicity surrounding the case - implying inmates who testified against Craig had gleaned information from the news or internet. She also queried why police hadn't seized Angela's laptop, devices, medications and other items during their search of the Craig residence. Moses also pointed out that, while Craig was the beneficiary of life insurance policies totaling $4million in the event of Angela's death, she would have equally benefited if the dentist died. The defense lawyer - whose husband had also been representing Craig, before he was arrested for arson earlier this month and removed himself from the case - read out portions from Angela's journal from 2009 and 2018, when the mother of six discovered past affairs, expressing hopelessness and sadness. The trial has heard how Angela discovered another affair in the months before her murder - but believed her marriage was 'on the mend.' Moses also showed clips from home surveillance in which the couple appeared 'loving toward each other' - which Mauro pointed out on redirect were taken both before and after Craig claims he told Angela he wanted a divorce ... allegedly sparking her suicidality. Both prosecution and the defense rested following Olson's testimony. Closing arguments are scheduled for Tuesday morning. California Governor Gavin Newsom helped bankroll his wife's charity with nearly $2million he solicited from a Native American tribe while fighting on its behalf to kill a rival casino. Now the governor's office has reacted angrily to questions Daily Mail asked about the payments, called it 'insulting and offensive' to even be asked whether his official actions on behalf on the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR) amount to a quid-pro-quo.. Records show that the governor personally requested the 'behest payments' from FIGR. The Bay Area tribe donated $1.8million to The California Partners Project, a nonprofit co-founded by Newsom's wife Jennifer Siebel Newsom, and another $450,000 to fund his inaugurations. Newsom and the state then joined the tribe's efforts to block a casino from opening just 15 miles from theirs, filing a lawsuit in May challenging the federal government's approval of the project. Siebel Newsom wife also deflected, telling Daily Mail that we should shift focus to Donald Trump, who she called the 'grifter-in-chief' who is 'openly hawking watches, cologne, and crypto meme coins.' Washington Free Beacon was first to report on the controversy earlier this month. Daily Mail confirmed the findings with the California Fair Political Practices Commission, a nonpartisan group that maintains a database tracking behest payment by government officials. California Governor Gavin Newsom helped steer nearly $2million to both his wife's charity and his inauguration from a Native American tribe fighting to take down a rival tribe's casino The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria donated $1.8million to Jennifer Siebel Newsom's nonprofit, The California Partners Project - and another $450,000 to fund the governor's inaugurations Records show that from 2018 to 2024, the Californian governor has solicited a total of $2.25million from the FIGR - with the majority going to Jennifer's charity Records show the governor has solicited a total of $2.25million from FIGR. Two payments were earmarked for his inauguration fund, one for $200,000 in December 2018 and another for $250,000 in January 2023. But the lion's share of these behest payments went to The California Partners Project, a San Francisco-based charity co-founded in 2019 to promote gender equity. The group employs just 2 to 10 people, according to its website. FIGR sent its first donation to the charity in 2022, for $300,000. The payments ramped up with an additional $500,000 in 2023 a year the California Partners Project's total revenue came in at just $747,239. FIGR sent the charity another $500,000 in April 2024. This was just as the tribe, which runs Graton Resort & Casino in Sonoma County, was working to fend off competition from Koi Nation, another Northern California tribe proposing a $700million casino just 15 miles away on the 'Shiloh Site,' 68 acres of land adjacent to the town of Windsor. The plan calls for 2,750 slot machines, 105 table games, a 400-room hotel, six restaurants and food areas, a meeting center and spa. FIGR owns the Graton Resort & Casino in Sonoma County and donated the money allegedly in the hopes of fending off its rival, Koi Nation, from building their $700million casino 15 miles away Koi Nation's proposed casino is built on the sacred area 'Shiloh Site' and planned for 2,750 slot machines, 105 table games, a 400-room hotel, six restaurants and food areas, a meeting center and spa After the Koi Nation proposed its casino project, Newsom fiercely opposed it - writing to the US Department of the Interior in August 2024, citing the need for a 'careful balance' between expanding tribal gaming and preserving community peace Just four months later, Newsom moved to quash the deal. In August 2024, he wrote the US Department of the Interior a letter opposing the Koi project and another elsewhere in the state, emphasizing the need for 'striking a careful balance between the potential benefits of expanding tribal gaming and its potential impacts on surrounding communities.' He also challenged Koi Nation's 'historical connection' to the land. Koi Nation, for its part, stood firm, arguing that it had a 3,000-year presence in Sonoma and that this project would 're-establish' its tribal land base. Speaking with the New York Times in 2024, the vice chair Dino Beltran said the casino had support from 80 fellow tribes, and that Graton Rancheria was merely interested in protecting its bottom line from a competitor. Despite opposition from the governor and some local leaders, the Biden administration approved the project. But Graton Rancheria continued its fight, filing suit. Meanwhile, it made sure to keep the governor and his wife happy. In April, the tribe sent the California Partners Project another $500,000. Koi Nation Vice Chair Dino Beltran told the New York Times in 2024 that their casino plan was backed by 80 tribes - contradicting Newsom's claims - and accused the FIGR of trying to protect their turf from competition The Graton Resort and Casino has an annual revenue of more than $300 million Just a month later, the Newsom administration stepped up its own efforts, suing the Interior Department to block federal approval of the rival casino. 'This case is about respecting the history of tribal sovereigns, protecting communities from unchecked casino-style gaming, and preventing federal administrative overreach,' Newsom and the state argued in their complaint filed in May. According to government watchdogs, the fact that Newsom solicited money from the tribe while engaging in official action on its behalf appears shady, but on its face is not illegal, given lax campaign finance laws. 'The scandal here isn't what's illegal, but rather what's entirely legal,' Daniel Schnur, former chairman of the California Fair Political Practices Commission, told Daily Mail. 'These types of behest payments represent a large enough loophole in the laws that you can drive a semi-trailer truck through them.' He said he expect Newsom will face attacks ads on this from opponents should he follow through on his aspirations to run for president. But he also fully expects the governor to shout down any suggestion of a 'pay for play' scheme. 'No politician in human history has ever conceded that a contribution has affected their governing decisions,' Schnur said. Government watchdogs told Daily Mail that snubbing Koi Nation's casino plan skirted legal boundaries - and that 'behest payments' are often used as loopholes Greg Sarris, chairman of FIGR, defended the tribe's donations to one of its strongest allies and his wife's charity, citing a 'long history' of such contributions Daniel Schnur, former chair of Californias Fair Political Practices Commission, warned the move could come back to haunt Newsom if he runs for president - calling it prime material for attack ads Sure enough, the governor came out swinging when Daily Mail reached out for comment Friday. 'This is an absurd inquiry,' the governor's office stated when asked whether the tribe's payments influenced his support. 'Any suggestion that the governor's decisions were influenced by public, transparent donations to an independent nonprofit focused on supporting women and families isn't just baseless it's insulting and offensive.' First partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom's office expressed similar indignation. 'The implication that anything was done here for political advantage is completely false and misleading,' her office told Daily Mail breaking its own silence on the issue. 'The California Partners Project is an independent nonprofit organization with no role in government decision-making or policy. Neither the First Partner nor the Governor receives any personal financial benefit from its work or from any donations to the organization. Greg Sarris, chairman of FIGR, also defended its contributions to one its greatest advocates and his wife's prized charity. 'Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria has a long history of giving to local, regional, and statewide causes that work to improve the lives of Californians,' he stated. 'In that vein, we are proud of the strong support we have provided annually to the California Partners Project since 2022.' An interviewee in an Oscar-winning documentary on Palestine is believed to have been 'shot in the chest by an Israeli settler'. Odeh Hadalin, a prominent activist who featured in 'No Other Land', has reportedly been shot by an Israeli settler, who is under sanctions by both the EU and the US. In a video shared on social media the Israeli can be seen wildly brandishing a gun and shooting it into the air. Yuval Abraham, the co-director of the film, reported Alhadlins death on X, claiming he had been 'murdered'. It comes after the other co-director of the same documentary, Hamdan Ballal, was also reported attacked by Israeli settlers on the West Bank before being detained by the military. An anti-Zionist Jewish activist group said dozens of Israeli settlers attacked the Palestinian village of Susiya in the Masafer Yatta area, south of Hebron. Members of the Center for Jewish Nonviolence said a rampaging mob descended upon the village, throwing stones, smashing windows, slashing car tyres and destroying a war tank in the village. Odeh Hadalin, a prominent activist who featured in 'No Other Land', has reportedly been shot by an Israeli settler, who is under sanctions by both the EU and the US An Israeli settler just shot Odeh Hadalin in the lungs, a remarkable activist who helped us film No Other Land in Masafer Yatta. Residents identified Yinon Levi, sanctioned by the EU and US, as the shooter. This is him in the video firing like crazy. pic.twitter.com/xH1Uo6L1wN Yuval Abraham (@yuval_abraham) July 28, 2025 In a video shared on social media the Israeli can be seen wildly brandishing a gun and shooting it into the air In a video shared on social media the Israeli can be seen wildly brandishing a gun and shooting it into the air Yuval Abraham, the co-director of the film, reported Alhadlins death on X, claiming he had been 'murdered'. Pictured: Odeh Hadalin The settlers beat the director, leaving him bleeding from the head, and threw punches at activists. While Ballal was being treated in an ambulance, soldiers from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) detained him and a second Palestinian man, the group added. Joseph, one of the five activists who witnessed the brutal attack, said the filmmaker was surrounded by a group of around 15 armed settlers. 'They started throwing stones towards Palestinians and destroyed a water tank near Hamdan's house,' he told The Guardian. Another activist Raviv, told the same publication: 'The settlers destroyed his car with stones and slashed one of the tyres.' Video provided by the Center for Jewish Nonviolence showed a masked settler shoving and swinging his fists at two activists from the group in a dusty field at night. The activists rush back to their car. 'Get in, get in!' one shouts, and they duck inside as the thuds of rocks being thrown can be heard. 'Car window was broken,' the driver says as they drive off. No Other Land, co-directed by Hamdan Ballal, highlights the plight of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank No Other Land co-directors (left to right) Basel Adra, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal and Yuval Abraham clutch their awards after winning Best Documentary at this year's Oscars The back window of the car belonging to the Center for Jewish Nonviolence was broken after rocks were thrown at the activists when driving away from the attack In another video, posted by Israeli investigative journalist and filmmaker Yuval Abraham, one of the co-directors of No Other Land, masked men reported to be settlers are seen sprinting towards a car before hurling a rock through its window. Chase Carter, the development and communications director for the Center for Jewish Nonviolence, said: 'Tonight, the Oscar-winning Director of No Other Land Hamdan Ballal was attacked by Israeli settlers and arrested by the Israeli army in his home village of Susiya in Masafer Yatta. 'The group of assailants arrived at approximately 6PM with batons, knives, and at least one assault rifle; many were also masked. 'Five Jewish American activists responded to the scene to document the attack and they were violently assaulted by the settlers, who also used rocks to smash their car with the activists inside.' No Other Land, which won the Oscar this year for best documentary, chronicles the struggle by residents of Masafer Yatta to stop the Israeli military from demolishing their villages and the alliance which develops between the Palestinian activist Basel and Israeli journalist Yuval. The film has two Palestinian co-directors, Ballal and Basel Adra, both residents of Masafar Yatta, and two Israeli directors, Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor. Oscar-winning Palestinian filmmaker Hamdan Ballal was reportedly attacked by masked Israeli settlers on the West Bank before being detained as he was being treated for his injuries The documentary won a string of international awards, starting at the Berlin International Film Festival in 2024. However viewings have drawn ire in Israel and abroad, with the mayor of Miami Beach in Florida briefly proposing to ending the lease and withdrawal all funding to a movie theatre that screened the documentary. The Israeli military designated the village of Masafer Yatta as a live-fire training zone in the 1980s and ordered residents, mostly Arab Bedouin, to be expelled. However, around 1,000 residents have largely remained in place, but soldiers regularly move in to demolish homes, tents, water tanks and olive orchards - and Palestinians fear outright expulsion could come at any time. While the West Bank is the larger of the two Palestinian territories, Israel captured the area in the 1967 Six-Day War, along with the Gaza Strip and east Jerusalem, and has occupied it ever since. Members of Congress have increased funding for their own personal security expenses amid a chilling rise in attacks on lawmakers in recent months. A string of politically-charged threats and attacks in recent months have legislators on edge and fearing for their safety. A source on the House Administration Committee confirmed to the Daily Mail that there has been an increase to the resources available to members to fund security enhancements ahead of the August recess when lawmakers return to their districts and states to meet with constituents. This pilot program includes $20,000 for a residential security program for each member, up from $10,000, to allow them to install a comprehensive suite of security equipment at their residences, according to a document shared with the Daily Mail. Additionally, the document states that lawmakers will be provided $5,000 a month for personal security measures, a sizable increase from just $150. The cash for the security programs is coming from the chief law enforcement and protocol officer of the House, the House Sergeant at Arms (HSAA). The $5,000 stipend is already in place but expires at the end of FY2025 and would need a vote to be renewed. The $20,000 residential program does not have to be voted on again and is a 'lifetime' amount, the source confirmed. Rep. Max Miller, R-Ohio, posted earlier this summer about being targeted in an antisemitic attack while driving. The individual, who drove Miller off the road while waving a Palestinian flag, later turned himself into authorities. The deranged hatred in this country has gotten out of control. Today I was run off the road in Rocky River, and the life of me and my family was threatened by a person who proceeded to show a Palestinian flag before taking off. I have filed a police report with Capitol Police and pic.twitter.com/H6JnupcRIA Max Miller (@MaxMillerOH) June 19, 2025 Florida Democrat Rep. Jared Moskowitz was targeted last year. Police arrested the man, though he was just 8 miles from the lawmaker's home Capitol Police monitor the perimeter of the congressional complex U.S. Representative Max Miller (R-OH) on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S., July 14, 2025 'The deranged hatred in this country has gotten out of control,' Miller wrote on X in June around the time of the attack. 'Today I was run off the road in Rocky River, and the life of me and my family was threatened by a person who proceeded to show a Palestinian flag before taking off.' Miller later announced that he asked the Capitol Police to investigate. The incident is just one of the thousands of threats that Capitol Police deal with annually, and members have asked congressional leadership to make a plan. Democrat Congressman Jared Moskowitz was the target of a gunman arrested last year, who lived under ten miles away from his Florida home. 'Someones gonna get killed here. It almost was me,' Moskowitz told the Wall Street Journal. The additional funds couldn't be coming at a better time. The campaign office of Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was vandalized with red paint resembling blood last week. A disturbing video made its rounds on X of the congresswoman's Bronx campaign headquarters being vandalized in red paint. A note was also attached to the front gate reading 'AOC Funds Genocide in Gaza.' A member of the U.S. Capitol Police guards a check point near the U.S. Capitol after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) bulletin following the weekend missile strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites, in Washington, D.C., U.S., June 25, 2025 Kat Cammack, Republican of Florida, received dozens of death threats this year over her pregnancy The glass directly covering photograph of the congresswoman's face was entirely obscured by red paint as well. The unhinged action came days after AOC voted against an amendment proposed by MAGA Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene to cut funding to Israel's 'golden dome' air defense systems by $500 million. Members of Congress from both parties have been threatened in recent weeks. Florida Republican Kat Cammack shared last month that her district office had to be evacuated due to death threats she received following a Wall Street Journal story which detailed her experiences with an ectopic pregnancy last year. Cammack, 37, is currently pregnant and expecting her first child in mid-August. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, the congresswoman spoke of 'imminent death threats against me, my unborn child, my family and my staff' based on her revealing her story about a 'nonviable pregnancy with no heartbeat.' The threats to Cammack came just over a week after a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband were assassinated at their home by a gunman. Melissa Hortman, a Democratic former Speaker of the Minnesota House, and her husband were killed after the assailant pretended to be a cop at their front door. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro was also the target of an arson attack in April when a man set fire to the governor's residence. Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters is denying any wrongdoing after two members of the State Board of Education alleged they saw images of naked women on a television screen in his office during a closed-door meeting last week. The accusation has triggered demands for an investigation from top Republican leaders, including the governor. The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday during an executive session focused on student attendance and teacher credentials. Board members Becky Carson and Ryan Deatherage say they were stunned to see what appeared to be graphic, full-frontal nudity displayed on a screen connected to Walters' computer. Carson, a former teacher, said she confronted Walters immediately. 'I saw them just walking across the screen, and Im like, "no. Im sorry I even have to use this language, but Im like, Those are her nipples. And then Im like, "Thats pubic hair." What in the world am I watching? I didnt watch a second longer. I was so disturbed by it, I was like, "What is on your TV?" I was very stern, like Id been a mother or a classroom teacher. And I said, "What am I watching? Turn it off now!" she told The Oklahoman. The superintendent, who was seated with his back to the screen, turned the TV off but did not apologize or offer an explanation. The incident unfolded just feet away from his colleagues. Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters is denying any wrongdoing after two members of the State Board of Education alleged they saw images of naked women on a television screen in his office during a closed-door meeting last week Two board members said that Walters, who has four children with wife Katie, had his back to the TV at the time and that he did not apologize or offer any explanation as he turned it off Walters, a hardline conservative who has made national headlines for mandating Bibles in classrooms and crusading against 'pornographic books' in schools, has denied the accusations outright. 'Any suggestion that a device of mine was used to stream inappropriate content on the television set is categorically false,' Walters said in a statement on Sunday. 'I have no knowledge of what was on the TV screen during the alleged incident.' He called the claims 'politically motivated attacks' from a hostile education board bent on derailing his agenda. But Republican leaders in the state aren't backing down. Governor Kevin Stitt said he was 'profoundly disappointed' if the allegations are true, while Senate President Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton called the claims 'bizarre and troubling,' urging clarity and transparency. House Speaker Kyle Hilbert demanded a third-party investigation and called on Walters to 'unlock and turn over all relevant devices' for review. 'We hold educators to the strictest of standards when it comes to explicit material,' Deatherage said. 'The standard for the superintendent should be no different.' Walters, a hardline conservative who has made national headlines for mandating Bibles in classrooms and crusading against 'pornographic books' in schools, has denied the accusations outright. He is seen pictured with FBI Director Kash Patel Ryan Walters, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, had been hosting a meeting on Thursday when two State Board of Education members claim they saw the explicit images of nude women on his TV screen The Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services is now reviewing the matter, though key questions remain unanswered - including whether the content was inadvertently streamed from Walters' device or another source. A spokesperson for Walters, Quinton Hitchcock, claimed others had access to the superintendent's office and described the board as politically 'hostile.' The allegations are particularly explosive given Walters' political image. Since being elected in 2022, the former teacher and father of four has spearheaded a deeply conservative overhaul of the state's education system, targeting what he describes as 'radical leftist indoctrination' in public schools. His most controversial move: mandating that all classrooms display the 'God Bless the USA Bible' - a Bible endorsed by former President Donald Trump and country star Lee Greenwood, which includes the Constitution and the Pledge of Allegiance. Disclosure reports showed Trump made $300,000 in royalties from the Bible's sales. Walters has issued a defiant statement suggesting that both his colleagues Ryan Deatherage and Becky Carson had made the whole thing up Ryan Walters, a lawmaker who pushed for Trump Bibles to be placed in schools is now being probed over reports of nude women on his office TV The Oklahoma Supreme Court blocked the plan, but Walters filed a motion this week to reinstate it. Now, his credibility is being tested under a completely different lens. 'These falsehoods are the desperate tactics of a broken establishment afraid of real change,' Walters said. 'They aren't just attacking me - they're attacking the values of the Oklahomans who elected me to challenge the status quo. 'I will not be distracted. My focus remains on making Oklahoma the best state in the nation, in every category,' he went on. But for board member Becky Carson, who watched the alleged images appear on the screen, the moment was unforgettable. 'I was like, "Those are naked women," and then I was like, "No, wait a minute this is just really bizarre," she said, initially wondering if the women were wearing tan bodysuits. She added that Walters never addressed what happened. 'There has to be accountability.' Walters' tenure has been marked by sharp rhetoric, high-profile battles with LGBTQ+ advocates, and controversial remarks about educators - whom he has previously labeled as 'perverts' when criticizing gender-inclusive curriculums. Many viewers sided with the senior constable A police senior constable has been praised for staying calm during a heated clash with a foul-mouthed driver. The Victorian police officer had pulled the man over in the early hours to issue a defect notice, immediately putting the motorist on edge. When asked to provide his name, the driver exploded. 'Well, it will say on that f***ing thing you've got there, won't it?' the furious motorist replied - pointing at the constable's computer. 'You put the rego name in and it will say who is the registered name. 'Are you f***ing alright?' I've had you p***ks.' The senior constable attempted to calm the situation, but the man cut him off, launching into another tirade. 'I've absolutely had a gutful. What you did during Covid,' he continued, apparently referring to the police enforcement of lockdown measures. The Victorian senior constable was commended for keeping calm during the fiery encounter 'Back right off. You don't need to be in my presence. Back the f**k off.' The no-nonsense cop stood his ground as he tried to confirm the motorist's name, pointing out that they were more than a metre apart. 'I don't feel comfortable in my space,' the motorist yelled. 'That's fine,' the policeman calmly replied. He explained to the motorist that he would get a defect notice, which started him off again. 'Oh well done. A good Tuesday for you. You're a guru,' the man replied. By now, the cop had almost had enough and gave the motorist some advice as he returned to his car to fill out the paperwork. 'You don't need to act like a d***head mate,' the policeman said. The motorist fired back: 'You're the f***ing d***head. That whole uniform's a disgrace.' The policeman replied: 'Take a seat and shut up.' The two-minute video shared by former bodybuilding champion Zoltan Banyai has racked up hundreds of comments. The vast majority of viewers leapt to the defence of the officer. 'Police should be respected mate. Hes only doing his job. Cops are tops when we are in trouble and need help they do help,' one commented. Another added: 'My god. The poor cops. How embarrassing.' A third wrote: 'Bloke yelling needs to learn how to control his emotions. I dont care what happened before the video, that behaviour is embarrassing as a fully grown adult male.' Daily Mail Australia has contacted Victoria Police for further comment. A Sydney childcare centre was investigated after disturbing photos emerged showing toddlers with their mouths taped shut as part of a 'breathing exercise'. Heritage House in Wahroonga, on the city's north shore, faced compliance action in January 2024 after a parent discovered the photos in the centre's app. The mother was given access to the app, which provides updates on the children throughout the day, when she was considering enrolling her child at the centre. She was horrified when she stumbled upon a series of photos from the centre's 'baby yoga session', which showed the toddlers with masking tape over their mouths. 'My toddlers started with 30 seconds tape mouth, look at them now. It is amazing, amazing,' an educator wrote alongside the photos, according to The Sydney Morning Herald. The educator described the yoga session as a 'unique lesson,' explaining that mouth taping taught the children to focus on nasal breathing. 'The children gathered for a unique lesson combining breathwork, gentle yoga, and the tape-mouth technique,' they wrote. 'Guided to focus on nasal breathing, they playfully mimicked animals in yoga poses, learning to breathe deeply and calmly through their noses, fostering early mindfulness.' The toddlers' mouths were taped during a 'baby yoga session' led by one of the centre's educators Childcare centre Heritage House in Wahroonga, in Sydney's north shore, faced compliance action after a series of photos emerged showing toddlers with masking tape on their mouths The mother, who works in the child protection sector, immediately submitted a complaint to the centre and withdrew her son before he even started. Heritage House claimed the activity would never be repeated after it faced compliance action. The childcare centre explained the baby yoga session initially received 'positive feedback' from parents through the internal portal. Led by an educator who was also a qualified yoga instructor, the centre said the breathing exercise was a 'well-intentioned activity.' 'It is well known that yoga is a popular and well-supported activity in early childhood education, and our educator is a much-loved member by many past and present children and their families,' Heritage House said in a statement. The centre explained it decided to self-report the matter to the Department of Education for consideration after it became aware of the mother's concern. 'We accept that the department issued a warning, and as a result we took steps to ensure that the activity was not repeated,' the centre said. 'We take our duty of care seriously and are proud of the care, trust and reputation we've built over many years with our families and communities.' The educator described the yoga session as a 'unique lesson', explaining that mouth taping taught the children to focus on nasal breathing The trend of 'mouth taping' has gained in popularity over the last couple of years, with many social media users claiming the practice improves facial structure by promoting nose breathing. However, recently published studies suggest the trend provides little benefit and could potentially cause serious asphyxiation risks. A spokesperson for the NSW Early Childhood Education and Care Regulatory Authority confirmed no children were hurt during the activity. The spokesperson condemned the centre's actions and labelled the mouth-taping exercise as an 'inappropriate activity', saying it should not take place at an early learning centre. The regulator investigated the matter, following a report from the mum, and issued a compliance action to Heritage House. A furious mother, frustrated that her child's school was doing 'nothing' to stop online harassment, decided to confront her daughter's bullies in person. Sapphire, an Auckland-based musician and mother of four, shared a video last month showing her confronting her daughter's alleged cyberbullies at their school. The footage shows Sapphire speaking to two girls while two adults, believed to be teachers, stand between them. 'Why are you posting my daughter online? Huh?' Sapphire asked one of the girls, who sat quietly behind an adult woman. 'Do you know how many people die from suicide?' A teacher then wedged himself between Sapphire and the pair. He warned if Sapphire didn't leave, he would call the police. 'Call the police. I have proof she's cyberbullying my daughter,' Sapphire told him. Auckland mother Sapphire was applauded after confronting her daughter's cyberbullies Turning back to the sitting girl, the mother continued: 'Don't fat-shame her online. Why [are] you quiet? 'Do you know how many kids have died from cyberbullying? It's not nice.' Sapphire then turned her attention toward another female student, who stood to the side. 'Why are you bullying my daughter?' she asked. 'She hasn't posted nothing about you but you're calling her a fat hippo online. 'I have the screenshots. You sent it to everybody, this post.' The male teacher moved to stand between Sapphire and both of the students and told her: 'You can't do this here'. 'This is how I deal with it. What are the police going to do?' Sapphire answered. The teacher said: 'I don't know. What are you going to do?' Sapphire shot back: 'If I have to come back, it won't be pretty.' The shocking video ended with Sapphire walking away from the conflict. Hundreds of Aussies applauded the mother for taking matters into her own hands. 'This [is] exactly how it should be handled! This is how bullies get away with it. Those teachers are always protecting them and hiding bullying under the rugs!' one wrote. 'Sometimes parents of bullied children get so fed up that this is how they handle the situation,' another said. 'You go mama! Stand up against bullying. Parents of bullies, do better,' another wrote. 'It's absolutely horrible, the things these bullies say and do. I'm so glad your daughter has an advocate to stand up for her,' another said. However, some commenters called out Sapphire for directly confronting the children. 'Doing the same thing to the poor kid. Shocking behaviour as a parent,' one wrote. Daily Mail Australia contacted Sapphire for further comment. Free, confidential help for people aged between five and 25 is available 24/7 at Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800. I was four years old when my childhood ended. Between the ages of four and nine, I was repeatedly sexually abused. I survived, but only just. What was taken from me wasn't just innocence; it was safety, self-worth, trust and the freedom to grow without fear. Abuse like this doesn't get left behind. It follows you through your teenage years, your adult relationships, your career, and your sleep. It morphs into shame, guilt and victimhood and it attracts more abusers. It shapes your identity in ways even therapy struggles to untangle. Being abused as a child is a life sentence emotionally, mentally, physically, spiritually - a prison at the very core of your being. This is why I'm calling for a national reform in how we staff intimate care positions in childcare centres. We need to remove male workers from these roles. Yes, it's extreme. But how many more cases do we need before we accept that the cost of doing nothing is far greater? Since we learned in June that childcare worker Joshua Dale Brown allegedly abused eight children in his care, we've seen more and more cases of alleged child sex abuse in these settings come to light. The latest? The alleged rape of a seven-year-old girl, by a man working in the sector. Child sexual abuse advocate Louise Edmonds (pictured) is calling for male childcare workers to be banned from intimate spaces Former childcare worker Ashley Paul Griffith (pictured), one of Australia's worst paedophiles, was jailed for life after abusing more than 60 girls Since becoming a voice for the voiceless, I have had legal threats, hate mail from men, character misrepresentations in the media, and questions from teachers. I'm repeatedly told: not all men are like this. Well, to that I say, the facts are frightening. In Australia, one in four girls and one in six boys experience sexual abuse before the age of 18. In more than 90 per cent of cases, the abuser is someone known and trusted by the child, often in a position of care or authority. And 97 per cent of child sex offenders are male. That's not a generalisation - it's cold, sterile data from the Australian Institute of Criminology and supported by numerous global studies. We need to look at this reality without flinching, without turning a blind eye. I have always said: 'For evil to exist, all good people need to do is nothing.' But the truth is many good people have no idea this is going on, because child sex offenders are very good at hiding in plain sight. The recurring, systemic failures we have are alarming across the childcare industry. Take the recent case in Queensland, where one male childcare worker is accused of over 1,600 child abuse offences against 91 children across multiple centres. 'This conversation is uncomfortable. It should be,' Louise Edmonds writes (stock image) This isn't an isolated - albeit alleged - incident. It is the third major case of its kind in childcare settings in Australia in recent memory. But what if I told you that on the dark web there are manuals for child predators instructing them on how to get into these industries that give them direct access to children? Would you believe me? Probably not, but it's true. Less than eight per cent of childcare workers are men, and yet a disproportionate number of abuse cases are perpetrated by them. This isn't about persecuting all men or dismissing the many good ones. I've spent years of my life mentoring and supporting the development of integrity-driven men through my programs Men of Manners and Men Style Power. I deeply believe in positive male role models, but our first priority must be the safety of children, not gender equity in employment. Making these changes is about limiting access to vulnerable, voiceless children in high-risk situations like nappy changes, toilet training, and nap time, where even a few seconds alone can lead to devastating harm. To those who call it discrimination to bar men from intimate care roles, I ask: what's more discriminatory - reassigning a man to another part of the childcare centre, or risking another child becoming a statistic because we were too afraid to offend? Children typically begin to form full sentences around age two. Before that, they cannot effectively verbalise pain, fear, or confusion. However, these emotions will come out as 'strange behaviour' that will make a parent think, 'That's not right.' Even older toddlers often don't have the words or understanding to describe what's happening to them. That makes them the perfect target for predators. And yet, we continue to place male staff statistically more likely to offend in these intimate caregiving situations without added safeguards. I'm not calling for men to be removed from the childcare sector entirely. What I am advocating for is this: moving male carers out of intimate roles and into supervised, communal areas like outdoor play, group reading, or learning activities with full transparency. This will allow them to be the positive role models they were hired to be, without access to children's most vulnerable moments. This is not just protection for the children; it's also a safeguard for male staff. With defined roles, strict boundaries, and third-party oversight, we can protect the integrity of good male educators while minimising the risk posed by predators hiding in plain sight. I have also called for a 'Child Intimate Care Waiver' to be introduced at all childcare centres. In my time raising my own child, I witnessed and reported a male child predator at my daughter's daycare and changed the policy of the centre's national chain to remove men from the change table area. This waiver is a simple form that allows parents to opt-in or opt-out of having male carers provide intimate care for their children. It gives parents a choice - parents who, right now, are panicked and anxious about dropping off their child at daycare. Transparency is not discrimination; it's empowerment. The blind spots in centres - such as the sleeping areas, change tables and toilets - are the very places predators exploit because they are out of sight. If abuse takes seconds, then so does deterrence. Knowing someone is watching is often enough to stop a predator in their tracks. This conversation is uncomfortable - it should be. We are talking about the most vulnerable members of our society being sexually violated, often before they know how to speak. And yet, every time we try to talk about solutions, someone inevitably says, 'Not all men.' That may be true. But as a society, we are responsible for all children. If this makes people angry, I understand. But the anger must be directed at the abusers and the systems that enable them - not at survivors who speak out. As a survivor advocate, I will continue to raise my voice. Because for every survivor who can speak, there are thousands of children who never get the chance. It's time we act with courage, not political correctness. Let's finally say without apology, that no adult's right to work in a particular job should ever come before a child's right to be safe. Louise Edmonds is a survivor of child sexual abuse, founder of Men of Manners, and an advocate for systemic reform in child protection. She is a producer of The Grooming Recognition Training Course. Young Aussies have vented their frustration at having to compete with hundreds of other applicants for entry-level jobs that are paying just $50,000 per year. A disgruntled Reddit user posted a screenshot of a listing for a Level 1 Helpdesk Technician that had been posted on job website Seek. The advertisement drew 919 applications, with the Perth-based role offering between $50,000 and $65,000 a year. 'About three years ago, when I decided my career and studies, all you heard about was how IT was booming in Australia and you could land a good job with just a TAFE course,' the Reddit user wrote. 'I just feel like I fell into this trap.' The user, who said they are a recent graduate from a TAFE IT Advanced Diploma, said 'trying to land an entry level job seems almost impossible at the moment'. 'I never took for granted that just the diploma would give me a job, and always did self study, projects, and tried to do networking with people in the industry,' they said. 'But this is just the bare minimal in these days. I just wonder if I'm doing something wrong or the market is just cooked as it seems.' An Aussie with a TAFE IT Advanced Diploma shared the horror of seeing more than 900 people applying for just one entry level role on the job website SEEK Social media users leapt into the comments to offer some anecdotal insight into why there were so many applications. 'From a recruitment perspective, most of those applications are either from bots or from overseas applications hoping for a visa,' one said. Another recruiter related to the situation: 'As someone who has advertised for a similar position recently and received about 480 applicants - this is the answer. 'Out of those applicants at least 50 per cent are either overseas or visa limited applicants wanting sponsorship. 'Of the remaining 50 per cent, another 20 per cent are eastern states based... but don't mention anything about either having relocated or that they plan to relocate etc. 'Of the remaining 30 per cent another 15 per are just straight-up applying for the sake of meeting Centrelink requirements,' they said, using the example of a hairdresser with a cover page looking for hair dressing positions applying for an IT position. They said that, among the remaining 15 per cent, ten per cent are not suitable, and then of the final five per cent, some had invalid contact details or did not respond. Others said they had also struggled to find a job due to the high competition. A young woman on TikTok exposed the hundreds of applications handed in for roles, including at least 830 candidates for one job 'Why me, with ten years' experience and living in smack dead centre of Perth, who has applied for over hundreds of jobs over the past two years, haven't been able to land a job?' one wrote. Another added: 'Getting the first job in IT after Tafe is the difficult one. After that, it's easy to find work.' Another woman highlighted how the same issue was being experienced across the ditch in New Zealand, after revealing in a TikTok video the staggering number of competitors she had to compete with to land a job. On the first page listing her applications, some jobs had up to 830 people also submitting their details for the role. The former government employee said she had applied for a range of job sectors, including work in hospitality, retail, office administration, and warehouse roles. Two days later, the Christchurch local took to TikTok again to say the most popular job now had 865 applicants, but that she had managed to get an interview for it. Hundreds of sympathetic social media users commented on the first video, sharing their own woes when job hunting. 'I must have applied for 100 jobs and had five interviews before I got my job. it's rough.. good luck,' one said. New LinkedIn research, based on a survey of 1,080 employed Australians by Pure Profile between May 30 and June 5, revealed that 60 per cent of Australians say they are missing out on relevant roles Another said: 'Two years unemployed in Australia here... it's REALLY bad... there's just so many people and so little work.' New LinkedIn research, based on a survey of 1,080 employed Australians by Pure Profile between May 30 and June 5, revealed that 60 per cent of Australians say they are missing out on relevant roles. The reason was not due to a lack of skills, but because they said they are overwhelmed by outdated job search tools and unclear job titles. At least 44 per cent said they feel burnt out from searching for jobs online. The unemployment rate reached 4.3 per cent in June, which was the highest since November 2021, as states and cities emerged from Covid lockdowns. The number of full-time jobs fell by 38,000, while 40,000 part-time jobs were created in June, signalling a sharp drop in working hours. LinkedIns Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand, Matt Tindale, said 'todays job search can feel limited by rigid filters and predefined boxes'. 'Mid-year is a natural time for professionals to pause and reflect on their careers to reassess their goals and consider roles that truly inspire them,' he said. Australia's biggest bank has announced it will slash dozens of jobs by replacing workers with artificial intelligence. Commonwealth Bank told the Finance Sector Union (FSU) last week they would be making the cuts, with at least 45 roles to be made redundant. It comes directly after the bank introduced its new voice bot system to assist customers last month. About 38,000 workers are employed by the bank in Australia, with around 3,000 in its call centres. The call centre staff were offered roles in other departments or the opportunity to be reskilled, but instead chose voluntary redundancy. Earlier this month, Commonwealth Bank created 110 new jobs in India after cutting 304 staff in Australia in June. Critics claimed the bank was 'offshoring' to drive down labour costs and boost its profit margin, even after recording a net profit of $9.8billion in the 2024/25 financial year. The bank's latest move marks the first time the FSU has been informed redundancies were directly caused by AI. Commonwealth Bank Australia has made 45 roles redundant after testing the capabilities of AI The bank's new call centre 'voice bot' has the ability to verify customers and provide balance checks for incoming callers. It has reduced call volume by 2,000 per week, the bank said. 'Our investment in technology, including AI, is making it easier and faster for customers to get help, especially in our call centres,' a CBA spokesman said. 'By automating simple queries, our teams can focus on more complex customer queries that need empathy and experience. 'To meet the changing needs of our customers... we review the skills we need and how we're organised to deliver the best customer experiences and outcomes. That means some roles and work can change.' But FSU national secretary Julia Angrisano blasted the move. 'Just when we think CBA can't sink any lower, they start cutting jobs because of AI on top of sneakily offshoring work to India,' she said. 'If this is what [CEO] Matt Comyn calls productivity, were seriously concerned about his place at the national productivity roundtable.' The bank sought 110 Indian workers this month after cutting more than 300 Australian jobs in June (stock image) Unions will push for the regulation of AI in the workplace at the Albanese government's productivity summit next month. 'Workers want a tech-savvy bank, but they expect to be part of the change, not replaced by it,' Ms Angrisano said. 'There is a human cost to this. You cant just replace frontline jobs with a voice bot and expect the same service for customers.' The Productivity and Growth roundtable - which is attended by employers, unions, and government officials - will take place in August. Ahead of the summit, Australian Industry Group chief executive Innes Willox said it was disappointing the union movement were challenging AI innovation. He claimed unions had taken the view that 'it is all about cutting jobs and cutting wages', arguing the opposite was true. 'One of the frustrating conversations to have with unions is to hear them say: 'Yes, of course there'll be AI but everyone's job will stay the same,' he told Sky News. 'Unfortunately it won't but we have to prepare people for that - and that will be a massive exercise in reskilling and retraining... that's where this productivity summit is going to be so important.' One of the victims of the shocking mass brawl in Cincinnati over the weekend is a single mother who was at a friend's birthday party when chaos ensued. The reveal comes as Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge announced five people have been charged in connection with the melee that took place in the city's downtown Friday. Officials have begun reacting to the brawl, with Vice President JD Vance saying he was particularly offended by a woman was 'sucker punched' by a 'grown man' during the fight. A few details have been revealed about the female victim, named Holly, by former presidential candidate and now Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy on Monday after he said he spoke with her. 'I spoke to Holly earlier today (the woman tragically assaulted in Cincinnati this weekend). She's a single working mom who went to a friend's birthday party. It's unconscionable that there were no police present in that area of Cincinnati on a Friday night, or even an ambulance to take her to the hospital,' he wrote on social media. Ramaswamy - who was originally supposed to be the co-chair of the Department of Government Efficiency with Elon Musk - said that Holly has not received any messages from state or local officials yet, aside from a police detective. He then promised to have a no-nonsense attitude towards crime if he were elected in 2026. 'Leftists like to lecture about 'systemic injustice' while thugs turn our turn cities into war zones. I'm done with their excuses. As governor, I'll make sure they're behind bars, not running wild,' he wrote. Vivek Ramaswamy says he's spoken to one of the victims of the shocking mass brawl in Cincinnati over the weekend, a single mother who was at a friend's birthday party when chaos ensued Ramaswamy was referring to a woman who, as Vice President JD Vance put it, was 'sucker punched' by a 'grown man' during fight. The former presidential candidate, now running for Ohio governor, confirmed he'd communicated with the victim Monday 'Our cops will have the green light to restore orderno apologies. Holly appreciates the kind words and prayers from patriots across the country, and hopes that the publicity around her story ensures that local & state leaders clean up our failing cities. We hope to visit Holly soon as she recovers.' Theetge did not specify the charges in a press conference Monday but said they would be the first of many. 'We have five we have charged, and anticipate more,' she said. While Theetge wouldn't say the condition of the victims, Cincinnati Fraternal Order of Police President Ken Kober said they suffered 'pretty serious injuries' and would be 'recovering from this for a while.' Ramaswamy is the second major politician to speak out against the violence, after fellow Ohioan and Vice President JD Vance spoke out in a speech Monday. The Vice President didn't hold back as he made comment on horrific footage of the attack that unfolded on Friday night in downtown Cincinnati, with the victims, a man and woman, being swarmed by a violent crowd. He said: 'What I saw, and I haven't seen the full context, but what I saw is a mob of lawless thugs beating up on an innocent person. 'It's disgusting and I hope every single one of those people who engage in violence is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Five people have already been arrested, all believed to have participated in the 'savage attack', Cincinnati police union president Ken Kober confirmed 'I don't know the full context, but the one part that I saw that was really gruesome is you had a grown man who sucker punched a middle-age woman,' he added, referencing the woman, Holly, who Ramaswamy spoke to. 'That person ought to go to jail for a very long time - and frankly, he's lucky there weren't some better people around because they would've handled it themselves. 'We have got to make great American cities safe again for families and children, the only way to destroy that street violence is to take the thugs who engage in that violence and throw their asses in prison.' In the shocking clip, a man in a white t-shirt is can be seen being shoved to ground by two men and repeatedly beaten as other members of the crowd jeer and join in. The gang beat the man for nearly a minute as he lay in the middle of the street, seemingly stepping on his head multiple times. When the barrage of attacks temporarily stopped, he is seen attempting to stand - but immediately fell over in apparent disorientation. One attacker yelled out 'my man's drunk'. A woman in a black dress rushed to his aid, but was attacked by the crowd, suffering two blows to the face. The impact caused her to fall, with her head slamming the pavement. She became unconscious as blood spewed from her mouth. Vice President Vance, seen here on Monday, didn't hold back as he passed comment on the horrific footage At least five people have been charged in connection with the brawl The Friday night assault at the intersection of Fourth and Elm Streets started with a verbal dispute between at least two men, according to police. The carnage left at least two people, the unidentified male and female victim, injured. A good Samaritan rushed them to a local hospital in the aftermath, WKRC reported. Investigators have also received tips on some of the attackers' identities, Kober said. 'I would ask... that the public play a part in this, because stuff like this shouldn't happen in our city, but when it does, we need people to step forward, that way we can bring these people to justice.' Kober argued there is 'no place in society' for the violence displayed Friday night and, in separate remarks to WLWT, called the brawl 'disgusting'. What's equally disgusting is those who chose to watch and record instead of calling 911, attempting to defuse the situation or render aid.' Police Chief Teresa Theetge said the incident was not connected to the jazz festival that was going on in Cincinnati that weekend. 'This was a sudden dispute between individuals following a verbal altercation,' she added. Elon Musk had waded in on the brawl, posting to his social media that he was frustrated with a lack of response to the incident. Musk, apparently frustrated by the heinous act of violence, took to his social media platform X to question what he suggested was a lack of response to the incident. 'Why zero stories?' the Tesla CEO asked Sunday, retweeting a post from the End Wokeness X account alleging that the attack wasn't being covered by America's major news outlets. End Wokeness posted a tweet early Sunday afternoon claiming CNN, ABC, NBC, Fox News, The New York Times and The Washington Post, among others, had failed to cover the attack. By late Sunday evening the terrifying assault had been covered by several local and national media outlets, including the Daily Mail and Fox News. The central business district and riverfront area where the assault took place has seen a 25 percent increase in violence compared to last year, according to Cincinnati police data published July 21. The data also shows that there were 12 aggravated assaults in the city between January 1 through July 21, compared to 16 during the same time period last year. A suspected arsonist has been charged with terrorism after CCTV captured him lighting fires in Bulgaria as a wave of wildfires continues to rage across Europe. Firefighters were battling 160 wildfires across Bulgaria on Monday, as 11 regions in the country have been put on red alert due to the high temperatures. Shocking footage shows a 33-year-old man appearing to set fire to a verge of grass next to a pavement, as flames quickly spread up the bank. Officers arrested the man and charged him with terrorism. Europe has been hit by a wave of wildfires and blistering heat as a dangerous combination of high winds, drought, and soaring temperatures triggers mass evacuations. Around 90 per cent of the fires in Bulgaria have been caused by human error and negligence, said Miroslav Rashkov, the head of the interior ministry. Several suspects have been arrested on suspicion of arson, Mr Rashkvo added. In neighbouring Turkey, wildfires over the past week have led to at least 14 deaths and sparked the evacuations of 19 villages and more than 3,500 people elsewhere from their homes. Turkey's latest heatwave peaked with temperatures above 40C across much of the country last week and even reached a record 50.5C on Friday in the far southeast, in Silopi, near the Iraqi and Syrian borders. Shocking footage shows a 33-year-old man appearing to set fire to a verge of grass next to a pavement The flames quickly spread up the bank as he casually walks away Officers later arrested the 33-year-old man and charged him with terrorism 'We are burning up, we don't even know where to go anymore,' Asmin Gezginci, 24, said while returning from a park to her home in the Kurdish-majority southeastern Turkish city of Diyarbakir. Officials fighting to keep the fires under control have called the situation 'apocalyptic', warning that it can take 'days' to control the worst of the infernos. A firefighter battling the flames died of a heart attack on Saturday. Greece, too, has endured heatwave conditions for a week, with temperatures passing 40C degrees in many areas. Over the weekend, 55 new fires erupted across the country, though all but five were brought under control. Terrified beachgoers were seen fleeing by boat from beaches in Italy's Sardinia Island as fires surged inland. Dramatic scenes unfolded on July 27 at Villasimius in southern Sardinia, where flames tore down towards the shoreline, trapping dozens of beachgoers. With roads cut off, tourists were rescued by boat, while many cars were engulfed in flames behind them. According to officials, strong winds were hindering rescue operations as people scrambled to get on the boats. A tractor cuts a fireline as wildfire rages on in the settlement of Beledie Han, Bulgaria Hundreds try to escape as a huge fire rips through Bursa, Turkey's fourth largest city Smoke and flames rise as firefighting efforts continue after a forest fire in Bursa, Turkey, July 27, 2025 Turkey's latest heatwave peaked with temperatures above 40C across much of the country last week and even reached a record 50.5C on Friday Thick smoke could be seen emanating from the wooded area as beachgoers enjoyed the sun in Sardinia Beachgoers in Sardinia were forced to escape the fires on a boat as other escape routes were blocked by the blaze Cars burned nearby, preventing tourists from using them to flee from the blaze Your browser does not support iframes. In Greece, hundreds of firefighters are battling out-of-control infernos stretching from Crete to Evia and the Peloponnese, as locals and holidaymakers are ordered to abandon homes and hotels under choking clouds of smoke. This month, a massive blaze erupted near Ierapetra, Crete, with walls of fire tearing through dry brush and hillside communities. With some fires still active, the UK's Foreign Office has issued a travel advisory to the popular holiday destination. More than 1,500 people were officially evacuated, though reports suggest up to 5,000 tourists left on their own as flames crept dangerously close to coastal resorts Fires are also raging on the mainland, with Evia, Kythera, Attica and the Peloponnese all on red alert. Authorities described the situation as a 'titanic battle', with reinforcements called in from EU partners to try and contain the devastation. As flames spread through southern Turkey, the country registered its highest-ever temperature on July 25, with the town of Silopi in Srnak Province hitting a blistering 50.5C, breaking the previous record of 49.1C set in 2021. The unprecedented heat has turned huge swathes of countryside into a tinderbox, sparking dozens of wildfires in Izmir, Hatay, Bursa, Karabuk, Eskisehir and beyond. Officials fighting to keep the fires under control have called the situation 'apocalyptic', warning that it can take 'days' to control the worst of the infernos In Bursa alone, nearly 1,800 residents were displaced as 1,900 emergency crews scrambled to contain several active fires Dramatic scenes in Greece as firefighters contend with a massive outbreak Last week, several people were forced to leave their homes as fire burned through Cyrpus A couple told MailOnline how they fled from wildfires in Souni, Cyprus and came back to find their villa burned down Smoke rises among burning trees after a huge fire broke out in Karabuk, Turkey A heat map shows the sweltering temperatures plaguing Europe this summer In Izmir Province, more than 50,000 residents were forced to flee 41 settlements in late June after firestorms engulfed entire villages. The flames later reached Dortyol in Hatay, triggering the evacuation of another 2,000 people. Tragically, at least 17 people have been confirmed dead, including volunteer firefighters, civilian responders, and locals overwhelmed by the flames in Eskisehir, Bursa, and Karabuk. In Bursa alone, nearly 1,800 residents were displaced as 1,900 emergency crews scrambled to contain several active fires. Footage shared online shows thick black smoke blanketing motorways and panicked families loading belongings into cars as embers fall from the sky. Turkey's president Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on X: 'We remain on alert day and night with 27 aircraft, 105 helicopters, nearly 6,000 ground vehicles, 25,000 heroic forestry personnel, and 132,000 volunteers.' Meanwhile, the country's agriculture and forestry minister said: 'We are going through high-risk days' and warned that the crisis may not be over until October. The three nations are not the only European countries battling wildfires this summer. Cyprus, Spain, Albania, and Montenegro have all contended with huge blazes in the last month. Many areas and houses have been burned down in Greek cities like Crete and Athens Around 2,000 residents were forced to leave their homes in Delvina, Albania In Cyprus, a fiery blaze last week left thousands of people displaced. An elderly couple escaping the fires in their car were trapped inside and burned alive. A couple told MailOnline how they rushed to escape the flames with seconds to spare and returned to find their dream villa burned to the ground. Albania firefighters are also facing dozens of fire fronts due to a combination of the heatwave and suspected arson. On Friday, around 2,000 residents in Delvina were forced to leave their homes. Several homes have been damaged, and many forestlands have been left charred. In Kosovo, officials have been able to put out 17 fires that were fuelled by strong winds. However, 12 remain active. Eight cows were killed on a farm in Prizren when a fire broke out, according to firefighters. A separate fire in another region also killed 40 sheep. In France, a fastmoving wildfire near Marseille on 8 July 2025 injured approximately 100 people. Black cloud could be seen in Sardinia as authorities rushed to get beachgoers to safety France has also seen its fair share of fires as trees burn in Martigues Three people were killed and at least 41 injured after a train derailed near Riedlingen in southwestern Germany on Sunday Authorities believe heavy rain caused a sewage shaft to overflow, triggering a landslide that led to the accident It destroyed around 10 homes and prompted the evacuation of roughly 400 residents, while Marseille-Provence Airport suspended all flights temporarily. The blaze scorched about 350 hectares in the Les PennesMirabeau area, forcing shutdowns of highways, rail services and tunnels into and out of the city. Meanwhile, three people were killed and at least 41 injured after a train derailed near Riedlingen in southwestern Germany on Sunday. Authorities believe heavy rain caused a sewage shaft to overflow, triggering a landslide that led to the accident. The train, carrying around 100 passengers, derailed at 6:10pm local time. Among the dead were the train driver and a staff member. Severe storms had swept through the region at the time. Police said there is no evidence of foul play. A convicted Algerian criminal has been allowed to stay in Britain after claiming he would be mocked for wearing women's clothes and makeup if he returned to Algeria. The 27-year-old, who claims to be transgender, has been jailed for robbery and committed multiple offences including burglary, theft and battery since being granted refugee status in 2013. In arguing against his deportation, the repeat offender, identified only as MS, claimed he would be targeted in Algeria because of his sexuality - described to a court as 'gay, transvestite and/or transgender'. And an asylum judge agreed, upholding his appeal against the Home Office's revocation of his refugee status. Upper Tribunal Judge Christopher Hanson said: 'Were MS to return to Algeria and be open about his sexuality, he would be at risk of mockery, harassment, discrimination and potential harm from non-state actors. 'Were he to wear women's clothes and makeup, he would certainly draw negative attention to himself, and would likely be subjected to ridicule, hostility and possible harm... 'Algerian society would not generally accept men dressing as women or asserting that they are transgender. 'Indeed, [his] account...of being ridiculed for wearing women's clothes and make up in public areas is entirely plausible, as are his father's threats to kill him on account of his behaviour. A convicted Algerian criminal has been allowed to stay in Britain by an asylum judge at an Upper Tier Tribunal of the Asylum and Immigration Chamber, pictured, after claiming he would be mocked for wearing women's clothes and makeup if he returned to Algeria 'A family would deem such actions as deeply shameful and humiliating, and would do their utmost to prevent their son from bringing embarrassment and shame in this way. 'If MS chooses to dress in women's clothing or make up, this would heighten the threat of abuse.' The Upper Tier Tribunal (UTT) of the Asylum and Immigration Chamber was told that MS is a gay man recognised as a refugee 'who was and is a transvestite and/or is transgender'. The hearing, held in Birmingham, was told that since arriving in Britain 12 years ago he had been convicted of numerous crimes. 'Between April 2014 and January 2015, [MS] received four convictions for offences including: burglary and theft; attempted burglary with intent to steal; using threatening, abusive, insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause fear or provocation of violence; theft,' the tribunal heard. MS received a warning letter from officials in September 2015, after the decision was taken not to deport him due to Algeria's 'situation'. He received eight further convictions between May 2016 and June 2018 for offences including 'theft; resisting or obstructing a constable; failing to surrender to custody at appointed time and various driving offences'. In August of the same year, he was convicted for offences including theft and 'racially or religiously aggravated fear or provocation of violence in words or writing'. He was again given a warning letter in September 2018 after a decision was made not to pursue deportation, and after further convictions between December 2018 and January 2019 he was given more warning letters. In February 2019, he was issued 'administrative removal papers as an overstayer', following the expiry of his refugee limited leave to remain. MS was in and out of prison after this point, and came to the attention of authorities in January of the following year after being convicted for offences including battery. He was sentenced to four years and three months in prison after receiving a conviction for robbery and breaching a criminal behaviour order. A deportation order was made in August 2022, and he was served with a notice of the decision to revoke his refugee status in the same month. The Home Office asserted in July 2023 that the situation in Algeria had changed and that MS would no longer be an 'individual who would face treatment amounting to persecution' in the country. However, a 'country expert' told the tribunal that while 'homosexuality is not illegal in Algeria engaging in homosexual acts is a punishable offence', and those who do not hide their sexuality are at risk of 'physical violence'. The Upper Tribunal heard that in interviews in May 2023, MS said: 'He liked to play with girls and would dress up in his sister's clothes for which his father would beat him. 'His father would chain him to a wall and throw "rocks" at him.' MS said that he had been raped as a child and had also been bullied in school for acting 'like a girl'. He said he feared for his life if he had to return to Algeria, where their father still lives. The judge found that the asylum seeker 'could well end up destitute and living on the streets', and that 'mental health problems would make him particularly vulnerable in this respect'. Judge Hanson said: 'I find a holistic assessment of the evidence shows there is sufficient to justify the maintaining of the grant of international protection.' The judge found the first-tier tribunal made a legal error because it did not consider the 'protected characteristics' for which the asylum seeker has been 'recognised as a refugee'. A grieving family is demanding answers one year on from the mysterious death of Gage Wilson whose body was found almost three months after he suddenly vanished. Mr Wilson, 31, was last seen at his Mullumbimby home in far northern NSW about 5am on May 18, 2024. His abandoned white ute was later found crashed into a tree on Koonyum Range Road in Wilsons Creek, less than 10km away in the Byron Bay hinterland. Family, friends and the local community searched for three months until Mr Wilson's remains were found on August 4 at an abandoned property 1km from the ute crash. Almost one year on, the circumstances of his death still remain shrouded in mystery. Now his sister Niki Manidakis has broken her silence to reveal her sinister fear that Mr Wilson was brutally murdered. On the eve of the first anniversary of his body being found, the family has now been told an inquest into his death will be held in the coming months. But Ms Manidakis is adamant her brother met with foul play, and insisted: 'This doesn't feel like a tragic accident - this feels deliberate and staged.' Gage Wilson, 31, (pictured with his sister Niki) was last seen on May 18, 2024. His remains were found three months later A coronial inquest into Gage Wilson's death will be held in the coming months Mr Wilson's remains were found 1km from the wreckage of his ute 'I have no doubt in my mind that Gage was murdered,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'I cant say more than that right now out of respect for the coronial process, however I believe the truth will come out. 'I think the question we keep coming back to is: Why wasnt more done? Why hasnt Gages case received the urgency and attention it deserved from the start? 'There are pieces of this that dont make sense and until we have answers, were left questioning everything.' Within the first two days of the hunt for Mr Wilson, police found his clothing, but no other trace of him. The family then coordinated searches, organised volunteers, chased leads and raised awareness until their worst fears were realised three months later. Ms Manidakis spent weeks spearheading the search while pregnant with her fourth child. 'Instead of being able to rest or grieve, I found myself desperately searching for my brother alongside my family,' she said. Gage's sister Niki Manidakis has refused to give up on finding out what happened The mysterious death of Gage Wilson (second right) took a heavy toll on his family 'This meant the responsibility fell entirely on us. Our persistence and hard work - not the police - led to Gage being found. 'We had to organise volunteers, coordinate mapping, spread awareness, chase leads, all while in survival mode.' Gage's death rocked the entire family, she said. 'Emotionally, were still in limbo. Theres trauma, a million unanswered questions, and a deep sadness thats settled into everything,' Ms Manidakis said. 'Its not something you ever truly recover from.' She is hopeful that a new public appeal and the upcoming inquest will finally shed some light of the tragic mystery. 'Our family needs closure, and Gage deserves justice,' she said, ahead of National Missing Persons Week which coincides with the anniversary of the discovery of his remains. 'The community deserves to feel protected and to trust that if someone they love goes missing, their case will be taken seriously. A coronial inquest into Gage Wilson's mysterious death will be held in the coming months 'Gage wasnt just a name on a list. He was a person, a son, a brother, an uncle, a cousin, a grandchild and he mattered.' Ms Manidakis has now launched renewed appeals on social media for information about her brother's death. 'Nothing about what happened makes any sense,' she posted. 'His body was found in a place that had already been searched. 'To date, police have not said they've ruled out foul play, and neither can we.' Ms Manidakis also listed the names of dozens of men who vanished or died in similar circumstances in the Byron Bay region since 2019. Mr Wilson disappeared almost five years to the day after Belgian backpacker Theo Hayez, 18, who vanished after leaving Cheeky Monkeys bar in Byron Bay on May 31, 2019. His remains have never been found. 'This isn't over and I won't stop,' Ms Manidakis added. NSW Police was unable to comment on whether foul play had been ruled out. 'As the matter is before the coroner, no further comment can be made regarding the investigation,' a spokesman said. 'The officer in charge of the investigation continues to offer assistance to the family.' Gage's ute was later found crashed into a tree on Koonyum Range Road less than 10km away from his Mullumbimby home Ms Manidakis urged anyone with information to come forward. 'If you know something but youre scared to come forward, I understand. But this is bigger than fear,' she said. 'You dont have to be publicly involved. You can remain anonymous. Please contact me directly or speak to Crime Stoppers. 'Any piece of information, no matter how small, could help bring the truth to light.' A GoFundMe page set up for Mr Wilson at the time of his death described him as 'a unique individual with a wonderful, generous heart', leaving loved ones with 'profound disbelief and sorrow'. 'Gage was a gentle, free spirit, with a deep love for peace, nature, and humanity. We can only hope that his final moments were as serene as his soul,' it added. 'This is our worst nightmare, and our hearts ache for other families of missing loved ones in the Byron Shire area. We send our love and strength to those who are grieving alongside us.' Children were apparently spanked on desks and forced to do squats in a classroom inside a California home where multiple surrogate babies were kept, according to disturbing search warrants. Horrifying images seen by the Daily Mail show infants sat in lines while nannies and teachers allegedly abused and yelled at them in a home owned by a Chinese couple. Another set of photos from the warrants show a 2-month-old boy in a hospital bed wearing a neck brace after he was rushed from the home with severe head injuries. Guojun Xuan, 65, and Silvia Zhang, 38, were arrested in May after cops found 15 children inside their fortress-like $4.1 million mansion in Arcadia, the suspected hub of the alleged surrogacy scheme. A total of 21 children - including 17 toddlers - were taken into protective custody after the couple and one of their nannies were arrested for child neglect and endangerment. Arcadia Police Lt. Kollin Cieadlo told the Daily Mail that Zhang was able to provide investigators with birth certificates that showed she was the legal mother of the children taken into care. But warrants viewed by the Daily Mail reveal detectives recovered hours of video surveillance footage from inside the nine-bedroom mansion. The documents detail how the couple's children sat in makeshift classrooms while their nannies or teachers repeatedly spanked and degraded them. Police say a nanny can be seen spanking a child on a makeshift classroom desk on surveillance footage taken inside a suspected surrogate baby farm in Arcadia, California Detective Jose Robles wrote in the warrant: 'Multiple CCTV cameras were located throughout the house, including the bedrooms and common areas. 'We observed three large rooms, which appeared to be set up as a learning center with small desks and large whiteboards.' The detective added the house also had a large kitchen with four to five refrigerators. Multiple strollers, infant car seats, and several boxes of diapers and baby formula were also found in the home. Still, pictures obtained by cops via video footage showed the 15 children - all boys except one female toddler - all had 'buzzed' haircuts, Robles wrote in the warrant. The children found at the Arcadia home ranged in aged from 6 months to 3 years old, according to the search warrants. Under one of the pictures, Robles wrote: 'Image of teacher/nanny spanking the child in front of the other children.' The picture shows a child on his belly on top of a table with his pants down, just inches away from the other kids as he was being allegedly spanked by the nanny. In another photo, the child who was allegedly spanked is seen squatting on the floor, arms stretched out in front of him. In the background, another 'nanny or teacher' is seen hitting another baby in the face while the child sat in a high chair, according to the warrant. A photo contained in the warrant shows a nanny (left) allegedly hitting one child in the face while another (right) is forced to do squats at the front of the class An image of a child who was rushed from the surrogacy home to the hospital after suffering severe head injuries Police were notified of the injuries by hospital staff, leading to the arrest of Guojun Xuan and Silvia Zhang. A nanny said the child fell off the bed Guojun Xuan, 65, (left) and his partner Silvia Zhang, 38, (right) were arrested for felony child endangerment in May, before a search warrant found they had 21 children from surrogate mothers, cops said A California couple who acquired 21 surrogate-born children kept them in a hotel-style $4.1 million mansion where they were abused, police say Boxes of diapers and toys are seen in the dumpsters outside the home in Arcadia, California The warrants also showed the severity of one of the children's injuries that led him to be rushed to a hospital on May 6. Robles wrote in the warrant that one of Xuan and Zhang's children, 2-month-old Walter, suffered injuries consistent with car accidents or babies who have been shaken. Zhang told investigators she initially took Walter to a nearby hospital, USC Arcadia, on the night of May 5 after one of the nannies, Chunmei Li, 56, notified her that the infant fell off the bed. Zhang said she later decided to leave the hospital because it was too crowded. The next morning, Zhang said Walter 'was doing well' and was smiling as she changed his diaper. Later that afternoon, Zhang said the nanny told her that the baby boy vomited. The nanny then allegedly sent a video to Zhang of the infant 'shaking.' 'Silvia said that at that time, she stopped everything she was doing and took Walter to the hospital,' the detective wrote in the warrant. Officials issued an arrest warrant for their nanny Chunmei Li, 56, (pictured), who allegedly abused the children 'verbally and physically' Walter was eventually checked into the ICU at Children's Hospital in Los Angeles at 3 pm on May 6. Pictures of the infant included in the search warrant showed baby Walter wearing a tiny neck brace and unconscious in a hospital crib. Hospital officials alerted Arcadia Police Department of the boy's injuries the next day. Detectives later obtained video footage of Li allegedly shaking the baby. 'The video shows Chunmei moving Walter around the room and placing him down out of camera sight,' Robles wrote in the warrant. 'Once Walter is placed out of sight, he can be heard crying. Chunmei then walks over to Walter and goes out of sight as well. Walter cries for a few seconds until a thud or hit is heard, and Walter's crying suddenly stops.' The detective continued: 'Chunmei then picks up Walter, moves him to a crib and places him down. 'Walter appears to be unconscious and Chunmei begins to rub Walter's sternum in what appears to be her attempt to wake him up. 'After having no success, Chunmei picks Walter up again and shakes him. Walter still seems unconscious, and Chunmei continues walking around the bedroom with him.' The warrant includes a still photo of Li holding what appears to be an unconscious baby Walter. Investigators added they obtained video footage of Walter having seizures. Silvia Zhang told investigators she and her partner Guojun Xuan wanted a 'large family' Guojun Xuan pictured in a police mug shot The detectives also included closeup photos of Walter crying, with a visible large bump on the top of his head and the front of his right forehead. Detectives allege the close-up picture of the baby was found in Zhang's cell phone and was allegedly taken on May 4. Li told detectives she had been watching Walter since he was born and denied 'ever becoming frustrated with Walter, even after he fell from the bed,' Robles wrote in the warrant. Li was also arrested on May 9, but her whereabouts are unknown, Arcadia Police officials said. Bail for Zhang and Xuan was set at $500,000 each. They are still free on bail while an investigation is ongoing, Arcadia Police officials told the Daily Mail. In another search warrant obtained by the Daily Mail, Zhang told investigators two out of the 21 were her biological children. Investigators believe the couple solicited babies from surrogate mothers from around the country, none of whom knew they were carrying embryos for the same couple at the same time. Cieadlo told the Daily Mail that Zhang told investigators they 'wanted a large family.' Kayla Elliot, one of the surrogate mothers hired by the couple, set up a GoFundMe as she tries to regain custody of the baby girl she gave birth to. 'I was a bit hysterical,' Elliot told NBC News. 'You just dont expect that youre going to go through a pregnancy and a delivery and then hand the baby over to their parents and then all of a sudden find out that there was abuse and neglect going on.' One of the surrogate mothers who gave up her child to the couple, Kayle Elliot, 27, said she was heartbroken to discover that her baby girl was not given to a loving family with only one child, as she had been told All of the children were taken into the custody of the Department of Children and Family Services, with Elliot saying she wants to take her home to Texas to be 'in a nurturing environment rather than staying in foster care.' Elliott said she connected with Zhang and Xuan through an agency called Mark Surrogacy. The Texas woman said she later learned the agency was registered at the couples Arcadia address. Zhang refused to comment when reached by the Daily Mail. A man who allegedly had his arm almost chopped off in a machete attack by a gang of eshays in a shopping mall has spoken of his fight for life. Saurabh Anand, 33, was allegedly set upon by five teenagers in the unprovoked attack in Altona Meadows, in Melbourne's west, ten days ago. As well as almost losing his hand and arm, Mr Anand was allegedly slashed and stabbed in the shoulder and back, and suffered a fractured spine, broken bones in his arm, and head injuries. Doctors initially thought they would have to amputate his left hand, but surgeons were able to reattach it by inserting screws into his wrist and hand during five hours of emergency surgery. 'I am completely broken, mentally, physically and emotionally,' he said on Monday. 'I don't know how I'll survive. I am in constant pain. It is the toughest time in my life - I wouldn't have wished this on my worst enemy.' Mr Anand was at Central Square Shopping Centre to pick up medication and was talking on the phone when the gang of youths allegedly pounced around 7.30pm. He said he had spotted five teenagers sitting on a bench near a cafe outside the shopping centre, but was quickly surrounded as he came out of the pharmacy. Saurabh Anand was allegedly attacked by a horde of teenagers - one of whom was allegedly armed with a machete One teenager allegedly demanded his phone before another allegedly punched him repeatedly in the head until he fell, breaking his back as he hit the ground The gang then allegedly began punching and kicking him as he lay on the ground before a third teen then allegedly pulled out a machete and held it to his throat. 'He [allegedly] went for my neck, my throat,' he told The Australia Today Facebook page on Monday following his release from hospital after eight days. 'To save myself, I raised my hand up to protect my throat and my arm [allegedly] got completely sliced off - the machete cut all of the muscle, the tendons, the nerves. 'But if the machete had gone through my neck I would not be here today.' Mr Anand said he feared he would die in the alleged attack. He said the first cut allegedly sliced through his hand near his thumb before another almost hacked off his hand at the wrist. 'It wasn't just once, they [allegedly] did it repeatedly,' he said. 'They [allegedly] tried to kill me three or four times. Saurabh Anand in the days after the horrific attack in Altona Meadows 'My hand was literally hanging off. There was so much blood and so much pain. And he [allegedly] did not stop. He [allegedly] cut through both the bones in my arm. 'The bones were sticking out of my skin.' He said that as he lay on the ground in a pool of his own blood, his attackers then stood on his back and allegedly struck him again on his shoulders. 'I was just trying to survive,' he said. 'I was just tumbling around, half-concussed, half-conscious.' He said he lay there for around half an hour before emergency services arrived to help him. 'For 30 minutes, I kept rolling there, stumbling, trying to save myself, holding my hand and falling down,' he said. 'It was very scary.' He said he begged for help from bystanders but was ignored until one Good Samaritan finally stepped in to call police before he was rushed to hospital. Several teenagers have now been arrested in connection with the incident. Central Square shopping centre at Altona Meadows became the location of a brutal attack A 14-year-old appeared at a Childrens Court this week charged with a spate of offences including intentionally causing serious injury, recklessly causing injury, robbery and unlawful assault. He was remanded in custody until August 15. Two 15-year-olds were also charged with intentionally causing serious injury, robbery and unlawful assault. Police said the two were bailed and will face a Childrens Court on August 11. Mr Anand says doctors still don't know how much movement he will have in his hand and arm once his wounds heal. 'There is no certainty about that at all,' he said. He says he now faces financial ruin as he tries to recover, with no income and no support despite having lived in Australia for seven years. 'I have invested in this country, paid my taxes, paid my bills - supported this country in every way, economically or supported the community,' he added. Saurabh Anand faces an uncertain future after the alleged attack left him with serious injuries 'But today I am in such a situation as to have nothing to show that anyone or the government will help me. 'I need support and I hope the government will help me. Someone needs to hear the victims. 'It is very easy to defend [alleged] offenders, saying that someone is underage, someone has mental health issues. 'But what about my mental health right now? Who will take care of me at my home? I would really like to urge the government of Victoria and the government of Australia to please provide me with physical health support, a physical carer or a mental health support worker. Im really scared to get out of my home. I have nowhere to go. I am completely injured, distorted, disoriented in my head and a completely broken man. A GoFundMe fundraiser set up to help pay Mr Anand's medical bills has already raised more than $11,000 of a $26,000 target. The fundraiser contains images of Mr Anand in his hospital bed, with his arm in a sling. Saurabh Anand spoke to Indian ex-pat community Facebook page The Australia Today His friend Kanika, who organised the fundraiser, called on the community to rally behind Mr Anand. 'Hes still struggling to come to terms with what a bad ordeal he had to go through,' she said in the appeal. 'In this time, I would urge the community to bring in generous support for him as this would help him to support his medical expenses, while covering for the loss of income from work and recover from his physical injuries and mental distress through rehabilitation. 'Your contribution would help him to recover better without him having to worry about his next dollar as the journey is going to be long to bring it back to normal considering the expenses required for ongoing therapy, counselling , medication and rental expenses are not easy.' Residents of a South Australian town fear their beachside paradise could soon be washed into the ocean as they frantically build break-walls to stop the erosion. Homeowners in Pelican Point are desperately preparing a 'coastal adaptation' strategy with their local council as they try to save their town. One report suggests there is a 50 per cent chance their town could be wiped from the map by the year 2100 - prompting property owners to build their own makeshift sea walls on Crown Land over the past three decades. The District Council of Grant initially opposed locals' initiative and took legal action over the walls, before changing its tune and abandoning it in 2017. 'The council acknowledges these hazards and has commenced a joint project to reduce the risk of erosion and inundation,' a council spokesman said. 'The project aims to identify hazards and associated risks for each coastal township by 2050, and up to the year 2100, and evaluate options to adapt and protect our communities into the future.' Resident Adrian Ferguson told the ABC he had put up a break-wall between his property and the Southern Ocean. 'The last shack to our right was done just before the recent storms,' he said. Residents of Pelican Point, South Australia, (above, with Bungaloo Bay seen in the foreground) have been constructing break-walls on their properties as the council decides to take action The District Council of Grant believes much of the town will erode away in the next 75 years (above, council modelling of erosion) 'Last year, they had stones hitting their windows and the waves were hitting the windows. This year it's just seaweed.' He said, so far, the break-walls have been effective in preventing erosion. Mr Ferguson said some owners' motives were purely financial, as he and others doubted the scientific modelling. Many locals are looking to protect their investments as sea levels rise, with some homes worth as much as $700,000. 'I think the costing of the shacks has got out of control like everything, but I don't think the sea is rising you talk to the old guys here, they've seen this before,' Mr Ferguson said. The council's draft action plan said Pelican Point had several risk factors in the case of climate change-driven sea level rise. 'The town's low elevation makes it highly vulnerable to inundation during storm events, which is likely to cause substantial damage to both public and private assets,' the strategy read. One resident said many homeowners were looking to protect their investments and were not terribly worried by the modelling Community surveys of Pelican Point and nearby townships found nearly all of the population would support changes to their homes as part of the adaptation strategy. Only a third, however, supported moving their own property. 'Several [residents] demand immediate action, fearing irreversible damage; others question the need for drastic measures, seeing changes as natural,' a report on the survey stated. 'Scepticism exists toward climate modelling and long-term projections.' When Simon Stiell, the UN's top climate official, warns Australians that unless we lift our game on emissions, fruit and veggies will become 'a once-a-year treat', you know he's jumped the shark. That kind of rhetoric may stir applause from activists who are already won over to the climate cause, but it risks turning off the very people who weigh up what practical action should look like. You don't have to be a climate change denier to fall into that category. Climate change is real, most people accept that. The science is sound, people know that too. The dangers posed by a warming planet are therefore not to be underestimated. But packaging the argument in short term apocalyptic headlines doesn't strengthen the cause, it weakens it. It sounds like activism, not expert analysis, and that distinction matters. When the debate becomes saturated with worst case scenarios and doom-laden predictions, most people dismiss those who deliver inflated rhetoric as lacking credibility. Stiell might believe he's spurring governments into action, but for mainstream voters, the ones who decide elections, this sort of messaging can feel more like an old fashioned guilt trip. It becomes counterproductive to the cause. Simon Stiell, the UN's top climate official, warned that fruit and vegetables will become a 'once-a-year' treat for Australians in a climate catastrophe Australia is preparing to update its 2035 emissions reduction target right when the Labor government has ambitions to co-host a global climate summit. And the UN's climate tsar seems to think fresh alarmism will spur Labor into more action. But that will not be the case if his sensationalising makes the government look like its plans are rooted in activism. Younger voters tend to be more inclined to listen to the alarmism, but the electorate is broader than one generation still finding their feet in life. The case for serious emissions reduction is strong, but it must be made with rigour. Suggesting fresh produce will become a luxury good - or that living standards are set to collapse without dramatic policy shifts in Australia - makes for a good headline but is poor public engagement. It risks framing climate policy as a punitive exercise rather than an economic and technological opportunity. It also ignores the reality that Australia is a very small emitter on the global stage even if our per capita emissions are too high. What we do, or don't do, matters little if the likes of China and India don't do much more than they currently are. There are plenty of nations in greater need of lectures than we are. Australians aren't oblivious to climate risks, but they are wary of poor policies, broken promises and emissions targets that are often costly and don't get met anyway. Voters want action that's credible, not utopian and dreamy. They also want costed plans, not alarmist lectures, especially in the context of rising energy prices and concerns about reliability. Enjoy it while it lasts! Steil told a Smart Energy Council event on Monday: 'Mega-droughts (will make) fresh fruit and veg a once-a-year treat' The Coalition is already highlighting the economic burden of the government's major emissions reduction policy - known as the safeguard mechanism - and other net zero policies. The public will want proper answers to a problem - not simplistic fear mongering. The credibility of climate action depends on public trust. That means being transparent about costs and benefits, about timelines, trade-offs and targets. It means avoiding exaggerated claims that can't be sustained if the short-term doesn't mirror the long-term projection. Just because opponents of climate action use fear and verbosity is no reason for advocates who claim to be on the side of science to dash their credibility by returning fire. If the government wants to be taken seriously at home and abroad, it should focus less on emotionally charged appeals and more on policy design that builds confidence. There's merit in the idea of setting ambitious targets with built-in flexibility, allowing for adjustments as new technology develops and economic conditions change. That's the kind of thinking that builds consensus and keeps momentum going. Those urging rapid decarbonisation, net zero within a decade, or 65 per cent emissions cuts by 2035 need to ground their calls in practical pathways. Without them, they risk pushing the conversation to the fringes. There's nothing wrong with urgency, but it should be channelled into persuading the undecided rather than trying to pressure them. If Stiell wants Australia to lead, avoid the junk threats. After all, science is already on his side. Australia's youngest senator, 21, has blasted Pauline Hanson and suggested the One Nation leader is stupid for trying to scrap the nation's net zero target. Hanson, 71, introduced a motion on Monday to scrap Australia's target of net zero carbon dioxide emissions, claiming the policy will 'destroy jobs and the Australian economy.' 'Power bills are out of control. Manufacturing is being wiped out. And ordinary Australians are paying the price, while out-of-touch politicians and inner-city idealists push fantasy policies they'll never have to live under,' Hanson said. 'We are being led by fools. Shame on every politician who continues to push this madness. I will not stand by while Australia is driven into the ground.' But before the vote, new Labor senator for South Australia Charlotte Walker, 21, slammed Hanson as lacking knowledge of the subject. 'All I can say is, are you kidding?' she said. 'The motion put forward on net zero indicates a severe lack of knowledge and a complete disregard for the future of our generation, the future of our country. 'Without a net zero target, there will be no Australian farmers, businesses or industries to support us. 'Net zero is waking up to a reality that Senator Hanson has not been able to grasp. In fact, Senator Hanson seems to be hellbent on exacerbating all of the consequences of climate change.' Pauline Hanson (pictured right) faced a scathing attack from Charlotte Walker, 21, on Monday after putting forward a motion to abandon Australia's net zero by 2050 target Labor senator for South Australia Charlotte Walker (pictured with Anthony Albanese) said Hanson's motion 'indicates a severe lack of knowledge and a complete disregard for the future of our generation' The motion from Hanson ultimately failed with only the four One Nation senators, United Australia Party senator Ralph Babet and Coalition senators Matt Canavan and Alex Antic voting in its favour. Senator Hanson had not expected the motion to succeed but intended for it to expose the Coalition members who refused to support it. 'Labor, the Greens and the crossbench voted it down. And the Liberals? Cowards. They had the notice. They had the time. And they still ran for the exits. Not one of them had the guts to stand and be counted,' Hanson said. Meanwhile, former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce on Monday launched a separate bid to repeal the net-zero emissions by 2050 target. But his private member's bill is also guaranteed to fail, because it lacks the support of the government which has a majority in the House of Representatives. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley maintains the Coalition will wait until after a review of its disastrous May election loss before making formal policy decisions. Despite a growing number of Liberal politicians speaking out against renewable energy policies which have pushed electricity prices to crippling levels, Ley would not budge from her position of waiting for a review. 'We're going to bring all of those views together ... to flesh out the different perspectives, the expert advice and, of course, focus on this government's miserable failure when it comes to energy policy,' she told Sky News. Asked about the political impact of dumping the climate target, Ley said she would not foreshadow the review's outcome. Many Liberal moderates want the net-zero target retained so the party can win back the wealthy city electorates which have backed Teal candidates. But Joyce said there was no reason why abandoning the targets should be off the table. 'This is not about leadership. This is not about trying to create some sort of discordant note,' he told reporters ahead of the bill's introduction. 'There's not anything in this bill that the Coalition didn't have the same position we voted for.' Joyce has the backing of his former leadership rival Michael McCormack. The two ex-deputy prime ministers are critical of Nationals leader David Littleproud's handling of the aftermath of the election defeat. The National Party briefly split with the Liberals over front-bench representation and policy divisions including energy but Littleproud was later placated and came back into the fold. The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is facing its biggest internal rift in years, as fierce infighting threatens to reshape the future of the world-famous event. A new campaign group, Protect Mardi Gras, is urging members to reject what it calls 'division and exclusion' ahead of a pivotal annual general meeting. At the heart of the dispute is whether LGBTQIA+ police officers should be permitted to march in uniform in the 2025 parade. Protect Mardi Gras claims a 'group of activists' is using the AGM to push an 'exclusionary agenda'. That group is Pride in Protest, a self-described 'grassroots political organisation focusing on queer liberation'. Veteran activist Peter Murphy, who was brutally bashed by police during the first Mardi Gras in 1978, called on members to defend the parade's inclusive spirit. Mr Murphy is a '78er', a term used to describe those who took part in the original 1978 march, which was met with police violence and arrests. Protect Mardi Gras is pushing to have a vote to remove police from Mardi Gras defeated (stock image) Mr Murphy reflected on the event's evolution, calling Mardi Gras a 'beacon of hope' for LGBTQIA+ communities in Sydney, across Australia, and around the world. He highlighted the 1998 decision to allow LGBTQIA+ police officers to march as a milestone moment. 'When the LGBTQIA+ police joined our parade in 1998, it was a fabulous victory,' Mr Murphy said. 'But its beautiful, inclusive character is under sustained attack from within our community here in Sydney.' He urged members to join the Mardi Gras organisation, attend the AGM and vote, or hand over their proxy to a Protect Mardi Gras member. Protect Mardi Gras organiser Peter Stahel told Daily Mail Australia the campaign consists of 'ordinary volunteers who care deeply about the power of Mardi Gras'. 'Mardi Gras is made possible by the hard work of hundreds of volunteers and the participation of a very diverse group of people, businesses, and activists that don't necessarily agree with each other on every issue,' he said. 'Mardi Gras has many voices, but it's one parade. That's what makes it powerful.' Peter Murphy (pictured) is the face of a new campaign against what he says is a 'exclusionary agenda' pushed by the Pride in Protest group Pride in Protest has been campaigning against police participating in Mardi Gras since 2018 Mr Stahel acknowledged the NSW Police's history of harm toward LGBTQIA+ communities, but urged a pragmatic, inclusive approach. 'I agree we must constantly acknowledge that many institutions, including the NSW Police, continue to cause harm to LGBTQIA+ people and many others,' he said. 'If only one in 100 police are allies, we start with them and build from there. We don't reject the one to spite the 99, that's just silly, unstrategic, and frankly, dangerous.' Protect Mardi Gras is encouraging people to join the organisation and vote to maintain the parade's inclusive tradition. Meanwhile, Pride in Protest has campaigned to ban police from marching in the event since 2018. Their most recent attempt to formally exclude officers from the 2025 parade was narrowly defeated. In 2024, NSW Police officers marched out of uniform in a compromise following the deaths of Luke Davies and Jesse Baird, who were allegedly murdered by Beau Lamarre-Condon, a serving police officer at the time. Earlier this month, Pride in Protest renewed its call to ban police from participating in Mardi Gras following the death of Collin Burling, a 45-year-old man who died in police custody on July 15. Pride in Protest have renewed their calls to have police removed from the event since the death of Collin Burling, who died while in police custody Mr Burling's partner, Taite Collins, captured distressing footage of the incident, in which Burling cried out: 'I've done nothing wrong. I can't breathe. I am dying. Help.' 'The police institution is an oppressive one laced with racism, queerphobia, and violence, and one that is not held accountable for its actions,' Pride in Protest said. 'We renew our demands that the disgraced NSW Police Force be removed from the Mardi Gras parade float and for Operation Mardi Gras to end, putting a stop to the dangerous and overwhelming police presence in Sydney's queer spaces and events.' The Mardi Gras annual general meeting will be held later this year. Daily Mail Australia contacted Pride in Protest for comment. Drivers are up in arms about a road rule for P-platers in New South Wales that bans them from connecting their phones to their car's Bluetooth system. Sydneysider Yasmine, 19, posted a TikTok last month about her experience of being pulled over for a random breath test (RBT). She was warned that she was breaking the law by using her phone for music while it was connected via Bluetooth. Yasmine said she saw the traffic officer notice the music was connected to her phone. 'He's like, "You do know you can't have your phone connected to Bluetooth. You can lose your licence over that." And I was like, "Sorry. It connects by itself",' she said. The TikTok user said she swapped the music to a CD and she was then allowed to drive on. Transport for NSW rules state that Learner, P1, and P2 drivers must not use a phone while driving or stationary, even if stopped at lights or in traffic. 'This applies to mobile phones that are handheld, in a phone holder or hands-free, for example, via Bluetooth,' the website said. But Aussies were divided over the rule, with some arguing whether the law was even effective. 'Honestly, though, like surely it's worse to have the radio on with the worst songs ever made playing which is distracting as all hell,' one person said. 'I am more inclined to fiddle with the radio and CD trying to find a song that doesn't make me want to drive off a cliff than my own songs which I don't skip and let play mindlessly, never touching while driving,' another said. A third said: 'What about navigation? Are we supposed to use a paper map?' Others pointed out that the rule is to keep new drivers safe. 'It's your first year driving alone, you're very new to the road and need to have complete confidence and zero distractions, it's to keep y'all safe,' a user said. 'It's a safety issue. It's to prevent distraction,' another said. 'Everyone does it (myself included and I'm 33) but if you do, you need to be smart and not let it distract you and don't get caught or you can lose your licence.' P-plater Yasmine (pictured) said she was called out by a cop for playing music in her car through Bluetooth, which is not allowed in New South Wales The penalty for illegal phone use is a $387 fine and five demerit points. If someone with a learner or P1 licence is caught using their mobile phone, they will go over their demerit point limit and lose their licence on the spot. NSW drivers, including L and P-platers, are permitted to use their mobile phone to make a payment, redeem a voucher or coupon or access a specific area as long as the vehicle is stationary and off-road, for example, in a car park, drive-thru, or driveway. The other exemption for drivers to use their phone in NSW when behind the wheel is if a police officer asks them to show a digital driver's licence. When Rebecca welcomed a pretty, young au pair from Britain into her home at the start of July, she hoped for a helping hand to ease the daily juggle and mental load. Instead, what followed were 19 days of hell, as the woman she now calls a 'monster' stole money, alcohol and her child's ADHD medication, before self-harming with a knife in their home. The situation spiralled so far out of control that the Queensland mother was left fearing for her family's safety and ultimately called police for help. 'I invited the devil to live with us,' Rebecca, 44, tells me, still shaken by the ordeal. 'It was like living in a real-life thriller movie. The lies kept coming and coming. 'She had lied about her host family before us and supplied fake references from the UK. 'I had no choice but to ask her to leave. It became clear very quickly that she was not who she claimed to be and it was no longer safe for her to be around my children.' Rebecca had hired the 26-year-old through a Facebook au pair page, and met her with open arms at Brisbane Airport at the start of the July school holidays. Australian mother Rebecca felt like she was 'welcoming a little sister to our family' when she hired a young British woman off Facebook to be her family's au pair The pair had been exchanging messages for weeks and Rebecca says she felt at ease. 'I already felt like I was welcoming a little sister to our family,' she adds. The au pair said her passions were books and caring for children. She said she was an experienced cook, and was eager to explore Australia. She spoke of wanting to get her Australian driver's licence and hoped to settle into life with a welcoming host family. 'I wanted help between my full-time TAFE study in mental health and managing my home,' Rebecca explains. 'My kids are older and legally can be left at home, but I refuse to leave them alone. 'My ad said we were looking for a big sister-style au pair to help with the house routine. We offered a private studio room, bathroom and kitchenette on the bottom storey of our house. 'I said the pantry was always full and they would be treated as part of the family. I just needed someone to whiz around with the vacuum and help with the kids after school.' Pictured: The cash drawer Rebecca alleges the family's au pair raided to the tune of $2,000 Rebecca was shocked to discover her daughter's ADHD medication bottles had pills missing The young Brit had told Rebecca she'd spent four weeks living with a family in the Western Australian outback, but claimed the experience had been terrible and she'd been mistreated. 'I felt just awful for her and I wanted to help,' Rebecca says. 'But as soon as she arrived, things didn't feel right.' Rebecca had paid for the young woman's flights from Perth to Brisbane, arranged driving lessons as a gift, and even brought the children along to meet her at the airport. But from the very first car ride, things felt off. 'She just sat on her phone and didn't engage with the kids,' Rebecca recalls. Unbeknownst to Rebecca at the time, the au pair was scrolling dating apps in the car and - horrifyingly - sending and receiving explicit photos right next to the children. 'My daughter noticed, but she didn't feel comfortable saying anything until after everything else happened.' Over the following two weeks, Rebecca, a former childcare director, began feeling increasingly uneasy. The au pair's stories didn't add up. Alcohol started vanishing from the house. She seemed uninterested in family life and spent most of her time vaping outside or meeting up with men. She even added Rebecca to her location-tracking app 'in case something happened' during one of her casual hook-ups. 'I was so worried for her and slept with my phone on all weekend in case she needed me,' Rebecca says. 'I didn't think it was any of my business who she was meeting or what she was getting up to. I didn't want her to feel bad for the choices she was making, so I didn't say anything. I just worried.' Then, just before school was due to resume, Rebecca confessed to her husband that she no longer felt comfortable leaving the children alone with the au pair. Pictured: The advert Rebecca posted in a Facebook group looking for an au pair. She had no idea the charming British girl who responded would cause her 19 days of hell Together, they decided to terminate her employment. What happened next left the couple traumatised. 'I felt bad and said we would pay her notice period, but she didn't have to work for us. We also said she could stay with us until she found other work,' says Rebecca. 'But she was furious and started sending us abusive texts. 'It went on and on all day. Eventually my husband and I went down to her room to talk about it, but she was off her face.' That's when the couple noticed deep, bloody cuts on her legs. She had self-harmed. 'It was like a scene from a horror movie. She told us she had done it and that she always does it,' recounts Rebecca. After Rebecca and her husband terminated the au pair's employment, she self-harmed in her room with knives (her injuries are shown) and was later sectioned under the Mental Health Act Rebecca (pictured with one of her children) can't sleep at night knowing the woman is free to apply for other jobs in Australia 'She had knives everywhere. She was even keeping them in the freezer.' Panicked, the couple called police and an ambulance. The au pair was removed from their home under the Mental Health Act. Following the paramedics' advice, they packed up her belongings and delivered them to the hospital. But Rebecca's ordeal wasn't over. 'You're the worst mother I've ever met. I hate you so much,' the au pair texted her from hospital. Dozens of abusive messages in a similar vein followed. Still reeling from the shock of having the au pair sectioned, Rebecca realised that $2,000 in cash and her daughter's ADHD medication were missing. She posted in the Facebook au pair group to warn other families. Soon, she was contacted by the woman's previous host family in Western Australia. 'She had knives everywhere. She was even keeping them in the freezer,' says Rebecca The au pair sent Rebecca dozens of abusive messages after being fired It was a frighteningly familiar story. The woman had told the same lies, including allegations of abuse against the family she had stayed with previously. The WA host family also revealed she had once left two toddlers alone to go out drinking with strangers. 'It wasn't just me,' Rebecca adds. 'She left that family in the same state of despair.' Worse still, Rebecca says she received a flood of messages from other host parents, many of whom were too afraid to speak out publicly. 'People told me the au pairs were writing down their hours and threatening to report families to Fair Work for underpayment,' she explains. 'Even though they had agreed to light duties in exchange for a room, food, car use and $200$300 a week pocket money. 'Families are being extorted after paying for flights and doing airport pick-ups.' Today, Rebecca says she still can't sleep at night knowing the woman is free to apply for other jobs in Australia. She has even had debt collectors come to her door, as well as messages from the woman's friends in the UK, accusing her of mistreatment. 'She's told a pack of lies, claiming we kept her in a basement and made her work 12-hour days, cleaning and painting without pay. 'It upsets me that I let that monster into my house. She could have harmed my children - and even now she's trying to scare me. 'I have reported her to immigration out of desperation, but nothing is being done.' President Donald Trump slammed 'Fake News' reports that he is seeking a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping amid escalating trade tensions between the two super powers. Trump even revealed on his Truth Social platform that Xi has already extended a personal invitation for him to visit China. 'The Fake News is reporting that I am SEEKING a 'Summit' with President Xi of China. This is not correct, I am not SEEKING anything!' Trump wrote. 'I may go to China, but it would only be at the invitation of President Xi, which has been extended.' He added: 'Otherwise, no interest!' The sharply worded denial comes as top economic officials from both countries met behind closed doors in Stockholm for the latest round of tense negotiations aimed at avoiding a trade war relapse. The talks, led by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, are expected to extend a fragile truce on punishing tariffs that, if allowed to expire, could rattle global markets and re-freeze supply chains across industries. Trump's public rebuke of the media coincides with behind-the-scenes moves that suggest preparations for a high-stakes Trump-Xi summit are already underway, despite his insistence to the contrary. US negotiators are pushing to lock in a 90-day extension to the tariff pause, while also exploring deeper cooperation on issues ranging from fentanyl precursors to rare earth minerals, tech export controls, and China's oil purchases from Russia and Iran. President Donald Trump slammed reports on Truth Social on Monday night that he is seeking a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping amid escalating trade tensions while revealing Xi has already extended a personal invitation for him to visit China Trump's own admission that : Chinese President Xi Jinping has extended a formal invitation suggests momentum is building toward a face-to-face - despite attempt to cast himself as disinterested Trade insiders say the groundwork being laid in Stockholm could culminate in a fall meeting between the two leaders - a summit Trump has not confirmed, but acknowledges could occur by invitation. The latest round of US-China trade talks - the third this year after meetings in Geneva and London, took place at Sweden's Rosenbad government offices, where officials spent more than five hours in tense deliberations Monday, with talks set to resume Tuesday. While both sides have played down expectations, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer hinted at long-term goals beyond mere tariff extensions. 'What I expect is continued monitoring and groundwork for enhanced trade,' Greer told CNBC, noting the need to 'ensure critical minerals are flowing' and that the fragile detente holds. Behind closed doors, however, officials are grappling with far more combustible issues. The US wants Beijing to ease its grip on rare earth minerals vital to everything from electric vehicles to military hardware, while China is demanding concessions on US tech export controls - especially restrictions on high-performance AI chips and defense-adjacent components. Both sides are keenly aware that without a breakthrough, US tariffs could snap back to 145% on Chinese goods by August 12. With Beijing responding with its own retaliatory measures of up to 125%, the threat of a new global trade shock looms large. The sharply worded denial comes as top economic officials from both countries meet behind closed doors in Stockholm for the latest round of tense negotiations aimed at avoiding a trade war relapse US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng held a fresh round of talks in Stockholm on Monday, with the world's top two economies looking to extend a fragile trade truce in the face of President Donald Trump's global tariff war The prospect of a Trump-Xi summit has been rumored for weeks, especially after Trump struck a surprise trade deal with the European Union over the weekend. The Financial Times reported Monday that the US paused further curbs on tech exports to China to support Trump's diplomatic overtures. Trump's own admission that Xi has extended a formal invitation suggests momentum is building toward a face-to-face - despite his attempt to cast himself as disinterested. Former U.S. trade negotiator Wendy Cutler warned that while an extension of tariff pauses 'should be the easy part,' broader progress will be difficult. 'Beijing will not buy into a one-sided deal this time around,' she said, noting that China is now a 'large and confident partner' with ample leverage. Indeed, Beijing is expected to demand progress on issues like Washington's export controls, sanctions over Taiwan, and the fentanyl crisis - where Trump has accused China of 'poisoning' American communities by allowing synthetic opioid precursors to reach U.S. consumers. rump's own admission that Xi has extended a formal invitation suggests momentum is building toward a face-to-face - despite his attempt to cast himself as disinterested. The pair are pictured on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Osaka, Japan, in June 2019 Adding complexity, US senators from both parties are preparing legislation this week targeting China on human rights, Taiwan, and tech surveillance, moves likely to provoke Beijing and raise the stakes of any talks. At the heart of the negotiations is a decades-old standoff over structural imbalances. Trump wants China to reduce overcapacity in key sectors like steel and EVs while increasing domestic consumption, a major sticking point since China's economic model relies on export dominance. Meanwhile, Beijing wants greater access to US markets and investment freedom including buying American aircraft, soybeans, and parts, in exchange for scaling back its own retaliatory tariffs. Sean Stein, president of the U.S.-China Business Council, said the Stockholm talks offer a rare window for both governments to realign. 'A lot of the things that the U.S. wants, the Chinese want as well,' Stein said. 'But any real deal will require a meeting between Trump and Xi.' Aussies are considering boycotting the iconic Sydney New Year's Eve fireworks after learning they'd be slugged $50 just to watch them from a public park. The North Sydney Council voted on Monday night to charge viewers $50 each to watch the display from Blues Point Reserve. The council believes it could make about $400,000 by selling off 8,000 New Year's Eve tickets. Facilitating crowds for the fireworks display costs the council an estimated $1million each year. Local resident Mariet Wezeman has watched the fireworks from Blues Point Reserve each year since arriving in Sydney from the Netherlands in 2019. 'It's sad to hear there will be a $50 charge. It's always been free, and I think it's been a great attraction for everyone around to just come and watch the fireworks. It's the perfect spot to watch,' she told the Sydney Morning Herald. 'There's always a huge line into this place because everyone wants to come here. Now I have to think about it and I think more people will have to think about it. The council should have thought about costs earlier.' She is now considering finding another location to watch from, or may forego the event entirely. Aussies will have to purchase a $50 ticket to see the NYE fireworks from Blues Point Reserve (pictured, Sydney fireworks 2020) Locals have enjoyed views of the harbour from the public reserve (above) for free during fireworks displays in previous years The cash-strapped council had been looking for ways to raise funds after 'inheriting a precarious financial situation'. It was left with a $60million hole in its finances after the cost to rebuild the North Sydney Olympic Pool blew out from $58million to more than $122million. The council first proposed an 87 per cent rate rise earlier this year to address the budget, but the move was rejected by the pricing regulator. The council then considered selling NYE tickets in May. North Sydney Mayor Zoe Baker said the decision to charge $50 per ticket was not made lightly. 'It is with an exceptionally heavy heart that I find myself supporting the motion for one year only. We have inherited a really precarious financial position that has not been relieved by our seeking a special rate variation,' she said. She advised those who could not afford a ticket to head to nearby Bradfield Park, Mary Booth Lookout, or Kurraba Point - all of which are free. Mayor Baker also suggested revellers could head to Cremorne Point, Waverton, or Carradah Park to see the display. Mayor Zoe Baker (pictured) said she made the decision to charge revellers with a 'heavy heart' More than 1.6 million people from Sydney and around the world crowd harbourside viewing points to see the New Year's Eve fireworks each year (above, revellers at Sydney Harbour) The mayor said the community will not be stopped from accessing those vantage points in a statement provided to Daily Mail Australia. She said, however, the situation could change pending state government funding. 'After our application for a rate rise was rejected, $12.5million in capital works was cut and Council committed to find $6million in savings and alternative revenue sources for the 202526 budget,' she said. A previous ticket trial in 2018 showed nearly half of all residents were opposed to the measure. However, 42 per cent of respondents said they welcomed ticketing the event at the time. Those supporting the move said it would make it safer and create better crowd control, while those against the idea argued the event shouldn't come at the expense of taxpayers. 'Yes (I would pay), if numbers are limited and there are toilet facilities. Otherwise my loungeroom works just fine,' one wrote on social media. 'So, for your own mistakes the general population has to pay for something that shouldn't be charged for,' said another. 'I would rather watch it on the TV for free,' one wrote. 'No. Dont even watch for free on tv. Huge waste of money. Would rather the council spend my rates money on improving infrastructure,' one commented. 'Calls for a boycott of the whole area and make sure they go broke before they make a cent,' said one Sydneysider. Anthony Albanese has strongly rejected Israel's assertion that there is no starvation in Gaza, describing the claim as 'beyond comprehension'. The Prime Minister used a Labor caucus meeting on Tuesday to respond to statements made by his Israel counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, and by Israel's deputy ambassador to Australia. 'While there is a caveat on any health information which is provided by Hamas, it is Israel that has prevented journalists from getting in,' he told the meeting in Canberra. Albanese declared Israel's retaliation to the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas had 'gone beyond the world's worst fears'. On Sunday, he warned Israel had 'quite clearly' breached international law by limiting food deliveries to starving civilians in Gaza, escalating his criticism of the Jewish state. Albanese spoke of his emotional response to images of gaunt and dying children in the Palestinian territory, while acknowledging increased airdrops of aid by Israel were 'a start'. 'It just breaks your heart,' Albanese told ABC's Insiders on Sunday. Photos of Muhammad Zakariya Ayyoub al-Matouq being held by his mother Hedaya al-Muta'wi in Gaza, taken on July 21, have shocked the world after going viral. Muhammad Zakariya Ayyoub al-Matouq being held by his mother Hedaya al-Muta'wi in Gaza The images of Muhammad, who is 18 months old, have shocked the world Anthony Albanese has ramped up his criticism of Israel's treatment of starving Palestinians There has since been unverified reports that the boy had pre-existing conditions including cerebral palsy. CNN reported that Muhammad's mother revealed that her son has a 'muscle disorder' and receives specialised nutrition and physical therapy. Netanyahu has said: 'There is no starvation in Gaza, no policy of starvation in Gaza...' Israel's deputy ambassador to Australia Amir Meron told journalists on Monday 'we don't recognise any famine or any starvation in the Gaza Strip'. Overnight, Donald Trump contradicted Netanyahu by stating many people were starving in the Gaza Strip and suggested more could be done to improve humanitarian access. The number of Palestinians believed to have been killed during the ongoing Israeli military action in Gaza is nearing 60,000 people, according to local health authorities. While air drops of aid have been carried out into Gaza, humanitarian agencies say they aren't enough to deal with worsening levels of starvation in the area. At the caucus meeting, Albanese was also asked about Palestinian statehood. Palestinians struggle to access food as a charity distributes meals in Gaza He referenced a Nelson Mandela quote, saying 'it always seems impossible until it's done'. Albanese has previously said any resolution on the statehood issue would need to guarantee that Hamas, the ruling authority in Gaza which Australia has designated a terrorist group, plays no part in the future nation. There would also need to be agreements on the rebuilding of Gaza and the West Bank, and a resolution of issues over the expansion of Israeli settlements. Recognition of Palestinian statehood has been part of Labor's national platform since 2018. Labor is facing intensifying pressure to follow France in recognising a Palestinian state at a United Nations General Assembly meeting in September. The Greens are calling on the government to impose the same sanctions on Israel as it had done on Russia over its war with NATO-backed Ukraine. The minor party is also seeking a ban on products that can help fund the war, pointing to sanctions on pearls and truffles from Russia. A Queensland man's flight home ended before it took off after he was kicked off the plane for allegedly assaulting a cabin crew member. Australian Federal Police officers were called to the tarmac at Perth Airport on July 14 following a request for assistance on a departing flight. Sean Joseph Howland, 59, wanted to use the bathroom as the four-and-a-half-hour flight bound for Brisbane was preparing for departure and allegedly refused instructions from cabin crew to take his seat. He then allegedly pushed the crew member, which was reported to the flight captain, who requested officers to attend the gate. Police allege Howland was uncooperative as he was arrested and removed from the plane. A photo released this week showed Howland, dressed in business attire, sitting in the back of a police van. Howland was charged with one count of assaulting a crew member and is due to appear in Perth Magistrates Court later on Tuesday. Sean Joseph Howland (pictured) is accused of assaulting a cabin crew member on a flight preparing for departure The alleged incident occurred at Perth Airport (pictured) The maximum penalty for this offence in WA is 14 years in jail. 'The AFP has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to the assault or mistreatment of airline staff, and anyone who commits such an offence can be prosecuted,' AFP Inspector Peter Brindal said. Passengers who notice unruly behaviour in the terminal or on a plane are urged to report it to Airport Watch on 131 237. A violent career criminal who cradled Tony Mokbel after his viscous prison bashing has reportedly been shunted into immigration while he awaits deportation to Malta. Kevin Farrugia, 53, held Mokbel's head in his hands until paramedics arrived after the former drug kingpin was bashed within an inch of his life at Barwon Prison in 2019. Farrugia, who a tribunal heard was an 'associate' of Mokbel, has a lengthy criminal history littered violent offences dating back to 1993. The convicted drug dealer was most recently serving a jail term after he was found guilty in March 2023 of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Farrugia was handed a three-year and three-month jail term with a minimum of two years and was reportedly released from prison this week. It's been reported authorities sensationally walked him straight to an immigration detention centre where he will sit until he is be deported to Malta. He lived on the small Mediterranean island until he was 17-months-old, before his family relocated to Australia in the 1970s. The bombshell follows Farrugia, who has done various jail terms including a stint for kidnapping in 2003, having had his visa cancelled in July 2023. Convicted drug dealer Kevin Farrugia is a close-associate of Tony Mokbel Mokbel and his mystery new girlfriend shortly after his release in April Mokbel after he was apprehended in Greece in 2007 The Department of Home Affairs, which failed to confirm or deny claims that Farrugia would be deported, denied his appeal to regain his visa in March last year. However, he successfully appealed that decision in June last year so his current status would likely be a shock to Melbourne's underworld. A source contacted by Daily Mail Australia, who knows Farrugia, was not aware the Mokbel associate had even been released from prison. The decision to overturned his cancelled visa last year was also a shock considering the tribunal heard the career criminal had 40 convictions for various gun and reckless conduct offences. The tribunal also heard Farrugia bashed a prison guard after his partner, mother and infant daughter were strip searched during a 'non-contact' jail visit in 2008. Farrugia was also caught with a homemade weapon and bashed a fellow inmate during his various jail stints. The violent criminal told the tribunal cradling his close mate Mokbel after the savage prison bashing left him with 'trauma'. 'The Applicant's convictions, his conduct in prison and his re-offending after receiving formal warnings about his visa status are collectively very serious,' senior member Ann O'Connell noted during last year's hearing. Mokbel is treated after he was bashed and stabbed at Barwon Prison in 2019 Mokbel is mobbed shortly after his release from custody In response, Farrugia told the tribunal he had strong family-ties to Australia, was off drugs for good and his violent ways were behind him. 'I feel like I am no longer a ticking timebomb. I have my emotions in check and under control,' Farrugia said. Farrugia, who spent almost combined 15 years behind bars, was jailed in 2008 for trafficking a commercial quantity of pseudoephedrine - a precursor for street drug 'speed'. Speed was a lucrative money spinner for those who controlled Melbourne's illicit drug trade through the 90s and 2000s and throughout the Gangland War which Farrugia and Mokbel survived. Mokbel then fled to Greece but was arrested and deported back to Australia where he was jailed. While in the yard of Victoria's Barwon Prison in February 2019, he was ambushed by two inmates and stabbed in the upper-body. Mokbel had earlier been offered to move into protection, after a report he was embroiled in a feud with Islanders, but refused. He was king-hit and stabbed seven times by the men with cutlery and sharpened wires before he was kicked in the head, knocking out his teeth. Bleeding from his mouth and chest, Mokbel was airlifted to Royal Melbourne Hospital in a serious but stable condition The ageing gangster was unable to move from the moment he was attacked and failed to defend himself as the pair assaulted him. As the assault attracted attention from other inmates and prison guards, the attackers could be heard screaming: 'You're not an enforcer, this is what you get for talking to the screws you f**king dog.' Bleeding from his mouth and chest, Mokbel was airlifted to Royal Melbourne Hospital in a serious but stable condition after Farrugia cradled his close friend. Mokbel was so severely injured with bleeding on the brain he underwent emergency surgery and was placed in a coma but he survived the attack. The former gangster's fortunes changed after he was bailed and set free from jail on April 4 this year. The 59-year old could not contain his joy as he walked down the steps of the Victorian Supreme Court of Appeal. Mokbel said nothing as he walked through a police cordon shielding him from a horde of journalists and other onlookers. The appeal court released him on bail citing there was a strong chance his remaining convictions would be quashed after they were compromised by the Lawyer X scandal. Mokbel was released after the Court of Appeal agreed he had been set up by disgraced former lawyer and police informer Nicola Gobbo (pictured) Back in 2006, Mokbel notoriously bought a yacht named 'Edwena' and hired a Greek crew to spirit him away from Australia while on bail but the following year he was caught. He spent nearly two decades behind bars but was released after the Court of Appeal agreed he had been set up by disgraced former lawyer and police informer Nicola Gobbo. In setting Mokbel free on bail, Justices Karin Emerton, Robert Osborn and Jane Dixon agreed he stood a solid chance of winning his appeal against three convictions for drug trafficking, which is expected to be heard later this year. If he wins, it will likely result in his complete release. His current sentence expires in 2037, but he is eligible for parole in June 2031. Prosecutors had argued Mokbel could not be trusted to comply with his bail conditions given his infamous escape to Greece just before Christmas 2006. Known more widely as 'Lawyer X', Gobbo had been Mokbel's lawyer while informing against him in the early 2000s when he was a kingpin of Melbourne's deadly Underbelly War. It was a 12-year war that began in January 1998 and ended in August 2010 with 36 underworld figures dead. Mokbel had been facing the drug charges he is appealing now when he was tipped off by Ms Gobbo that he was about to be charged over the murder of Michael Marshall. Marshall had been shot in the head outside the South Yarra home he shared with his wife and five-year-old son in 2003. Police had believed the now-dead crime boss Carl Williams was contracted by Mokbel to kill Marshall, who he mistakenly believed had murdered his great friend, another gangland figure Willy Thompson. The charges were ultimately withdrawn in 2009. Mokbel had been jailed in 2012 over Victoria Police drug operations code-named Quills, Magnum, Plutonium and Orbital Mokbel had been jailed in 2012 over Victoria Police drug operations code-named Quills, Magnum, Plutonium and Orbital. Magnum, which earnt Mokbel 20 years, had seen him convicted for trafficking more than 41kg of methylamphetamine while he was already on the run. Orbital - a six year stint - saw him attempt to buy drugs off undercover cops while Quills (13 years) saw him busted for peddling MDMA. As it stands, Mokbel has already served most of the jail time on Quills and Magnum, with the remainder attributed largely to Orbital. Gobbo had first met Mokbel in the Melbourne Magistrates' Court in 1998 when she was acting as a junior for barrister Alex Lewenberg. Mokbel claimed she had been acting on behalf of his brother. In 2002, Mokbel said Gobbo visited him in jail while he was on remand for drug charges. Mokbel claimed Gobbo gave him the hard sell, assuring him she would work hard for him. A Royal Commission into the Management of Police Informants later found Gobbo had been hellbent on taking down Mokbel's criminal empire and provided police with a 'volume of information'. Meghan Markle reveals who said 'I love you' first out of her and Harry, says she 'doesn't like baking' and reveals her love for McDonald's A married Missouri teacher who sent nude photos and explicit sex videos to a 16-year-old student has avoided prison in a jaw-dropping plea deal that has outraged parents, stunned prosecutors, and shaken the quiet town of St. James. Rikki Lynn Laughlin, 26, a former special education teacher at St. James High School, was sentenced to five years of probation after pleading guilty to a single count of first-degree endangering the welfare of a child. The judge suspended her five-year prison sentence, despite the mountain of evidence prosecutors had gathered over months. The charges she avoided were staggering: second-degree statutory rape, possession of child pornography, sexual exploitation of a minor, tampering with a victim, tampering with physical evidence, furnishing pornographic material to a minor, and even second-degree sexual trafficking of a child under 18. But in a last-minute deal in Grundy County Circuit Court the charges were quietly dropped in exchange for a guilty plea to the lesser felony. The illicit relationship began in September 2023, when Laughlin began messaging the teen student on Snapchat, according to investigators. Over the following weeks, she sent him nude photographs, solicited sexually explicit images, sent him a video of herself using a sex toy and even invited him over for sex while her husband was out of town. The student later told police that 'things progressed fast' and that they had kissed. Rikki Lynn Laughlin, 26, a former special education teacher at St. James High School, has avoided prison in a jaw-dropping plea deal that has outraged parents and stunned prosecutors Laughlin, 26, a former special education teacher was sentenced to five years of probation after pleading guilty to a single count of first-degree endangering the welfare of a child The mother is seen in a Facebook photo alongside her young daughter from May of this year under her maiden name Wright When asked to come over for sex, the boy declined, saying 'he did not feel comfortable.' Authorities say when word of the relationship began to spread at school, Laughlin panicked. According to the probable cause statement from the Maries County Sheriff's Office, she begged the student to delete their message history telling him, 'I could go to jail if those pictures come out.' Police later found the explicit content on the student's phone. The revelations hit especially hard given Laughlin's wholesome image online. At the time of the crimes, she was married to Grant Andrew Laughlin, 23, and the couple had a one-year-old daughter. They couple were married in June 2022. On Facebook, Laughlin painted a very different portrait with photos of her with her baby and husband, posing with rifles, riding horses, and waving Trump flags ahead of the 2020 election. One image from September 2021 shows the couple smiling side-by-side before their wedding. Another captures the young family posing in front of a Christmas tree. After people began 'talking' at St. James High School in Missouri, Laughlin became worried and asked the student to delete all of the pictures they exchanged, telling him she could go to jail if the images and videos were discovered Laughlin had faced charges of possession of child pornography, tampering with a victim, tampering with physical evidence and the sexual trafficking of a child but they were all dropped The former teacher used to post frequently on social media but much of it has been deleted Rikki Lynn Laughlin is seen posing with her then husband-to-be Grant Laughlin in a Facebook post from September 2021. The pair married the following year But behind the scenes, investigators say Laughlin was using Snapchat to groom a teenage student, building trust and then sending graphic content. Laughlin later claimed, 'I was not aware he was a minor,' according to the detective's report. But under Missouri law, the age of consent is 17 - and the boy was 16. The case came to light after a Phelps County detective alerted Maries County authorities about a rumored teacher-student relationship at St. James High School. Investigators quickly determined the victim was a student and obtained a warrant. Laughlin initially denied wrongdoing but ultimately allowed police to search her phone. Inside, they found a video matching the boy's description, Laughlin performing a sexual act and sending it to the student. A user on Reddit claimed they were a fellow classmate of the alleged victim. They said: 'I go to St. James and honestly this shook me to my core, knowing there was a teacher involving themselves with students I know scared me. what if this happened to me or my friends? 'What really got to me was how people reacted. when the student came back to school everyone started congratulating him, praising him and people on Snapchat are posting about how pretty she is and how lucky he was, that is absolutely disgusting.' The former teacher is seen waving a Trump flag in a Facebook post ahead of the 2020 election The teacher sent the 16-year-old boy nude photos, solicited sexually explicit images, sent him a video of herself using a sex toy and even invited him over for sex while her husband was out of town. She is pictured along with her then-husband, Grant Andrew Laughlin Laughlin, her then-husband Grant, and their daughter pictured together at Christmas when they were still married. They are believe to still share custody of their daughter On October 23, 2024, prosecutors charged her with seven felonies and a misdemeanor. The case was transferred to Grundy County in May 2024, and in July 2025, Laughlin pleaded guilty to a single lesser charge with no jail time and no requirement to sign the sex offenders registry. The St. James School District, which originally reported the relationship to authorities, has declined to comment publicly since the plea agreement. No officials have addressed whether Laughlin's teaching license will be revoked, or what safeguards have been implemented to prevent similar abuse. At least 20 people were killed and more than 40 others wounded in a series of overnight Russian missile strikes across Ukraine, officials said on Tuesday. It comes just hours after Donald Trump warned Vladimir Putin to end the war within ten days or face crippling new sanctions. The heaviest bombardment hit the Zaporizhzhia region, where eight strikes were carried out, including one that hit a prison, according to Ivan Fedorov, head of the region's military administration. In a post on Telegram, he said: '16 people were killed, 35 were wounded. The premises were destroyed and nearby houses were damaged.' Missiles also rained down on the Dnipropetrovsk region, where several more people were killed and injured in multiple attacks, officials said. A strike on the city of Kamyanske killed two people, wounded five others and damaged a hospital, according to regional governor Sergiy Lysak. Another attack on the region's Synelnykivsky district left one person dead and several more wounded, he said. In a separate incident in Velykomykhaylivska on Monday night, 'a 75-year-old woman was killed. A 68-year-old man was wounded. A private house was damaged,' Lysak added in another Telegram post. At least 20 people were killed and more than 40 others wounded in a series of overnight Russian missile strikes across Ukraine The Zaporizhzhia region has been under constant attack since the war began. Russia has hit the region with drones in previous times Ukrainian servicemen fire an autocannon towards a Russian drone in the Dnipropetrovsk region In southern Russia, a Ukrainian drone strike killed one person, according to local authorities. 'A car was damaged on Ostrovsky Street. Unfortunately, the driver who was in it died,' said Yuri Slyusar, acting governor of the Rostov region. The attacks came as Ukrainian forces continue efforts to repel Russia's summer offensive, which has pushed into areas that have been largely spared since the early stages of the full-scale invasion in 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, blasted the strikes, saying it was 'another war crime' committed by Russia. Writing on X, he said: '(Russian President Vladimir) Putin's regime, which also issues threats against the United States through some of its mouthpieces, must face economic and military blows that strip it of the capacity to wage war.' Over the weekend, the Russian army announced it had 'liberated the settlement of Maliyevka' in the Dnipropetrovsk region, just weeks after it seized the first village in the area. The strikes followed remarks by former US President Donald Trump, who on Monday warned Moscow it had just days to bring the war to an end. He said Russia had 'about 10 or 12 days' to stop the conflict in Ukraine or face tough sanctions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's chief of staff says the latest attacks is 'another war crime' committed by Russia A schoolgirl has died after 'getting into difficulty' in the sea at a popular UK beach. Emergency services raced to Whitley Bay beach, North Tyneside, at around 5pm on July 24 after Edie Smart, 13, was found struggling in the water. The teenager, from the Monkseaton area, was rescued from the sea and taken to hospital but she tragically died on Monday. Edie's next of kin are being supported by specially trained officers, police have said. Detective Chief Inspector, Emma Smith, of Northumbria Police, said: 'This is an extremely tragic incident, and our deepest condolences go to Edie's family and friends. 'Our specially trained officers will continue to provide them with the support they need at this time. 'We ask that their privacy be respected as they begin to come to terms with the loss of their loved one.' Edie Smart (pictured), from the Monkseaton area, was rescued from the water and taken to hospital Emergency services were alerted just before 5pm on July 24 to a report of concern for the welfare of a teenager Christopher Nolan has been accused of 'enabling colonialism' after filming in a highly disputed part of Western Sahara. The Dark Knight director, 54, has been shooting scenes for his new movie The Odyssey in the disputed area of Dakhla. Filming for his recreation of Homer's epic poem, starring Matt Damon, Charlize Theron and Lupita Nyong'o, took place this month with actors snapped on set. Other scenes have also been shot in the Moroccan cities of Essaouira, Marrakesh and Ouarzazate, as well as Greece and Scotland, with other members of the star-studded cast seen on set, including Tom Holland and Zendaya. However, it was the crews time in the small city of Dakhla that angered the Polisario Front, a liberation movement which claims to represent its indigenous inhabitants. Western Sahara has been occupied by Morocco since the 1970s when Spain gave up control of the territory, but the Polisario Front continue to seek independence for the region. Nolan's decision to film in Dakhla has prompted the Polisario Front to accuse him of 'a clear violation of international law and ethical standards governing cultural and artistic work'. Organisers of the Sahara International Film Festival, which takes place in Polisario-controlled Sahrawi camps in Algeria, told The Times that Dakhla was 'not just a beautiful location with cinematic sand dunes'. Christopher Nolan has been accused of 'enabling colonialism' after filming in a highly disputed part of Western Sahara Matt Damon pictured on the set of The Odyssey in the disputed land of Dakhla, Western Sahara The Dark Knight director, 54, has been shooting scenes for his new movie The Odyssey in the disputed area of Dakhla (pictured) They added: 'Primarily, it is an occupied, militarised city whose indigenous Sahrawi population is subject to brutal repression by occupying Moroccan forces.' Festival Director Maria Carrion said: 'By filming part of The Odyssey in an occupied territory billed as a "news black hole" by Reporters without Borders, Nolan and his team, perhaps unknowingly and unwillingly, are contributing to the repression of the Sahrawi people by Morocco, and to the Moroccan regime's efforts to normalise its occupation of Western Sahara. 'We are sure that were they to understand the full implications of filming such a high-profile film in a territory whose indigenous peoples are unable to make their own films about their stories under occupation, Nolan and his team would be horrified.' The UN and most countries do not recognise Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara, viewing it as a disputed territory. Meanwhile, Britain last week backed Morocco's claim on the mostly desert land having refused to take a side for decades. Morocco also previously won the backing of the US, France, Spain and Portugal for its occupation. In March, film crews were also spotted in the Moroccan village of Ait Benhaddou as cast members and extras flooded the area, including Christopher Nolan himself. The ancient Moroccan region is no stranger to A-listers and has also featured in the likes of Gladiator II and Game Of Thrones. On December 26, The InSneider reported that The Odyssey will have a $250M budget, making it 'the most expensive film' of 54-year-old Nolan's career. Matt Damon pictured with a fan in Dakhla, Western Sahara, where he is filming for Nolan's new film In March, film crews were also spotted in the Moroccan village of Ait Benhaddou as cast members and extras flooded the area, including Christopher Nolan himself Principal photography began last month in locations like the UK, Morocco, and Sicily, as well as Greece The movie's big budget seems to be coming in handy for the huge scenes that are being filmed across different countries Cast members were spotted making their way around the set in costume And director Christopher Nolan himself was seen on set filming in Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco Zendaya returns to Burghead harbour after visiting the set of The Odyssey which was filming at a location along the the Moray coast in Scotland earlier this month Tom Holland arrives onto the set of The Odyssey earlier this month when filming was taking place in Moray, Scotland Oscar winner Anne Hathaway is rumored to be playing Odysseus' wife, Queen of Ithica Penelope, whom he's eager to reunite with following a perilous journey back home. Rumour has it that Tom Holland - whose famous fiancee Zendaya also plays a mystery role - will take on the part of Odysseus' son Telemachus. And Oscar winner Charlize Theron is said to be playing the witch goddess Circe in the 3K-year-old fantastical tale full of sirens and a cyclops. The cast of high-profile actors also includes Robert Pattinson, Jon Bernthal, Benny Safdie, John Leguizamo, Elliot Page, Samantha Morton, Will Yun Lee, and Mia Goth. The Odyssey was last memorably adapted for the silver screen by the Coen Brothers in their 2000 satirical musical O Brother, Where Art Thou? starring George Clooney. A NSW council has sparked outrage after voting to move Australia Day ceremonies despite the majority of locals being vehemently opposed to the idea. Dubbo Regional Council, in the state's Orana Region, voted to move events commemorating the public holiday from January 26 to January 25 from next year at a meeting on Tuesday. This move has come despite a poll showing that 87 per cent of locals wanted to keep Australia Day on its original date. The motion to move celebrations sparked fierce debate at the regional council meeting and locals have been left outraged by the decision. One local branded the change 'absolutely outrageous' and an 'abuse of power'. 'I'm angry about it, decisions as big as a country celebration should be a community vote only,' the local told Noticer News. 'The date is always over-exaggerated on why and how it's celebrated,' another claimed. Labor Councillor Pam Wells, an aboriginal activist, successfully moved the date change amendment. Labor Councillor Pam Wells (pictured) successfully moved the notion to change the Australia Day ceremonies to January 25 at a Dubbo Regional Council meeting on Tuesday Demonstrators pictured on January 26, 2024, as they march towards Victoria Park during an Invasion Day protest. Many Indigenous Australians refer to Australia Day as Invasion Day and there is a growing movement to change the date to one which can be celebrated by all Australians She called January 26 'Survival Day' and argued in favour of moving Dubbo's planned celebrations commemorating the public holiday away from the official date. Dubbo's ceremonies will now be held at the same time as those in nearby Wellington, which has held its event on January 25 since 2023, the Daily Liberal reported. In reply to a frustrated local on Facebook, Dubbo Regional Council said they had 'not changed the date of Australia Day'. 'Council determined during the 2025 July Ordinary Meeting that events and activities to recognise Australia Day in Dubbo and Wellington will be held on 25 January,' the response read. 'This decision was made by Councillors to balance the needs of the community and provide a range of activities for our community, and we encourage residents to spend Australia Day on 26 January in a way that is meaningful to them.' Councillor Shibli Chowdhury's opposing amendment to leave the ceremonies on Australia Day was voted down six to three. He said he respected the council's decision, but felt the opinions of the community were being ignored. Mr Chowdhury argued the council needed to 'listen to the community'. A poll showed that 87 per cent of locals wanted to keep Australia Day on its original date (stock) He cited a survey of 109 people in the local government area found that 87 per cent of people wanted the ceremony to remain on the 26th. 'I cannot change the past. We need to move to the future together and as an elected body we need to listen,' Mr Chowdhury said. Councillor Lukas Butler also cited the survey and argued against the motion. The survey was dismissed as 'not statistically significant' due to the small sample size. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Dubbo Regional Council for comment. The RNLI has shared dramatic footage of a crew rescuing 19 migrants from a capsized boat in the Channel - as the charity hit back at claims it acts like a 'taxi service' for illegal entrants. Footage shows a group of screaming men thrashing around in the sea as RNLI volunteers throw mini life jackets - known as horseshoes - in their direction. The migrants - who are wearing little more than t-shirts - are then seen clambering up the side of the boat before being hauled aboard. One crew member, Dan Sinclair, said in the video: 'These people genuinely need our help. They are in distress. They have been in this situation for potentially hours on end and have become frozen - almost paralysed in position.' The RNLI released the footage - filmed at 4.50am in August 2023 - as it defended its 'compassionate' small boat rescues, adding that the 114 it carried out last year amounted to just 1.2 per cent of total launches and led to 58 lives being saved. All 19 people rescued by the RNLI in this incident survived, but six people pulled out of the sea died after being pulled from the sea by other attending vessels. Lifeboat crew members - who are overwhelmingly volunteers - said they would continue to attend any incident the Coastguard sends them to and will go to the aid of anyone in trouble at sea. Nigel Farage previously hit out at the RNLI by claiming it had become 'a taxi service for illegal immigration'. Nearly 24,000 small boat migrants have arrived in the UK so far this year - sparking widespread public fury. Crossings continued today, with migrants seen running across a beach in northern France to pile onto an overcrowded dinghy. The RNLI released footage of an incident in August 2023 that saw 19 people pulled from the sea at 4.50am The crew can seen throwing mini life jackets - also known as horse shoes - into the sea to save them Everyone rescued by the RNLI in this incident survived, but six people pulled out of the sea by other vessels who attended the emergency died Paula Lain, who works as a management consultant when she is not volunteering for the RNLI, told the BBC: 'When our pager goes, we're not thinking about anything political. 'We're all thinking about people. We're actively compassionate. That's what drives us beyond any moral or civic responsibility. 'When we're tasked, we don't know what we're going to be tasked to. We're there to help people in their most distressing times.' The August 2023 incident shown in the footage was described as one of the RNLI's 'most challenging' rescues yet. Many of the migrants swam directly to the lifeboat as soon as they spotted it and were pulled on board - joining 68 people who had already been rescued from another dinghy. Some needed immediate medical attention and others collapsed with sheer exhaustion when they got to safety. RNLI crew members said they have been accused of facilitating illegal immigration, but Mr Sinclair defended their work. A migrant runs to board a smuggler's inflatable dinghy off the beach of Gravelines, northern France this morning The beach at Gravelines is a common departure point for migrants. French police have been heavily criticised for failing to stop the departures Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Recalling one recent rescue, he told the BBC: 'There was a little girl on that boat. 'When we took that little girl - who was probably four years old - off that boat, she looked at me straight in the eye and she said 'Thank you. I love you.' 'Now, as a father that went straight through my heart. I know I am in the right place at the right time and I am doing exactly what I should be doing.' Photos taken this morning on a beach in Gravelines in northern France showed groups of migrants wading through waves towards a smuggler's dinghy, which already appeared to be dangerously overcrowded. Officials are now planning to use AI to check migrants' ages after shocking figures showed four out of 10 who claimed to be children were lying. Home Office figures show that between mid-2022 and June 2024, 11,449 age disputes were raised by UK Border Force staff. Some 8,791 were resolved with 3,570 - amounting to 40 per cent - having lied about being under 18. A staggering 1,305 of those caught lying about their age were from Afghanistan, in a bid to get special protection in the UK. Child refugees cannot be deported and have the right to the same healthcare, education and sustenance as British children. Other migrants - only some of whom wore life jackets - were seen waiting in the water for the boat The dinghy they were boarding looked dangerously overcrowded Nigel Farage has said: 'Sadly the wonderful RNLI in Kent has become a taxi service for illegal immigration, to the dismay of all involved.' Nigel Farage criticised the RNLI's lifeboat rescues in 2021, before he became leader of Reform. Sharing a photo of a lifeboat 'rammed full' of migrants, he said: 'Sadly the wonderful RNLI in Kent has become a taxi service for illegal immigration, to the dismay of all involved. What a state of affairs.' Simon Ling, head of lifeboats at RNLI said today: 'The core purpose of the RNLI is to save lives at sea. We strongly believe that whilst anyone can drown, nobody should. 'We do this across all of the UK and Ireland but the Channel attracts attention and we understand why. 'It polarises opinions, but to RNLI it's very simple - it's men and women getting up in the middle of the night to go and rescue fellow men and women.' Nigel Farage furiously demanded an apology from a senior Labour minister today after being accused of taking the side of sick paedophiles like Jimmy Savile in a deepening row over an online safety law. Peter Kyle also accused the Reform UK leader of being on the side of 'extreme pornographers' over the party's pledge to scrap the Online Safety Act over claims it stifles free speech. The Technology Secretary made the astonishing outburst as he defended the law, which came into effect last Friday and requires social media sites and search engines to take steps to prevent children accessing harmful content like pornography. Critics including Mr Farage claim that it is being used to stifle free speech by blocking people from seeing some political statements online, especially those by right-wing figures. But Mr Kyle told Sky News he had seen no evidence that the Online Safety Act 'goes too far'. He added: 'I see that Nigel Farage is already saying that he's going to overturn these laws. So you know, we have people out there who are extreme pornographers, peddling hate, peddling violence. Nigel Farage is on their side. 'Make no mistake about it, if people like Jimmy Savile were alive today, he'd be perpetrating his crimes online. And Nigel Farage is saying that he's on their side.' Mr Farage labelled the comments 'disgusting' and demanded an apology. But Mr Kyle later doubled down on his remarks. Peter Kyle also accused the Reform UK leader Nigel Farage of being on the side of 'extreme pornographers' over the party's pledge to scrap the Online Safety Act Critics including Mr Farage claim that the law is being used to stifle free speech by blocking people from seeing some controversial political statements online Former BBC television presenter and DJ Jimmy Savile, who died aged 84 in 2011, is believed to have been one of Britain's most prolific paedophiles, whose crimes went undiscovered or unchallenged for decades. Appearing on GB News the minister said: 'There is no definitive grey area about this. 'Either you're on the side of predators and paedophiles, as Nigel Farage is, because he wants them to have more access to our children online than you are with the Labour Party, where we are making sure we are holding the tech companies to account to prevent that kind of access, to keep children safer, and we can do so also at the time of also reinforcing freedom.' In a later broadcast from Reform UK's London headquarters, Mr Farage played back Peter Kyle's comments, adding: 'Well this is so absolutely disgusting that it's almost beyond belief. Just how low can the Labour Government sink in its desperation? 'Yes, of course they're in trouble. They're well behind us in the opinion polls. But frankly to say that I would do anything that would in any way aid and abet people like Jimmy Savile, it's so below the belt it's almost not true.' Former BBC television presenter and DJ Savile, who died aged 84 in 2011, is believed to have been one of Britain's most prolific paedophiles, whose crimes went undiscovered or unchallenged for decades. Asked to clarify his comments, Mr Kyle said: 'Nigel Farage is on the side of turning the clock back to the time when strange adults, strangers can get in touch via messaging apps with children.' Reform UK would scrap the Online Safety Act after labelling it as a 'dystopian' infringement of free speech, the party announced yesterday. During the press conference, Mr Farage acknowledged that his party did not have 'a perfect answer' for what could replace the Act, but said his party had 'more access to some of the best tech brains, not just in the country but in the world' and would 'make a much better job of it'. Former party chairman Zia Yusuf said the Act, intended to reduce online harm, did 'absolutely nothing to protect children' but worked to 'suppress freedom of speech' and 'force social media companies to censor anti-government speech'. Addressing a press conference at Reform's headquarters in Westminster, Mr Yusuf said: 'We will repeal this Act as one of the first things a Reform government does.' The intervention came after it emerged that X blocked a powerful speech on grooming gangs by Tory minister Katie Lam in Parliament this year. Meanwhile, footage of arrests during asylum seeker hotel protests was also blocked 'due to local laws', according to the social media platform. Reform's former chairman Zia Yusuf told GB News the attack was 'the most disgusting thing I've heard a politician say about another politician in the political arena that I can remember in my lifetime' After a demonstration outside the Britannia Hotel in Leeds at the weekend, X users said the site blocked arrest footage. They were shown the message: 'Due to local laws, we are temporarily restricting access to this content until X estimates your age.' Last week, the law changed to require websites to check users are over 18 before allowing them to access 'harmful' material such as pornography or suicide material. Failing to comply with the new rules could incur fines of up to 18million or 10 per cent of a firm's global turnover. Asked about concerns the law has seen posts wrongly removed from social media, the Technology Secretary told Sky News: 'I have not seen any evidence that the Bill goes too far at all.' He added: 'I will be monitoring the impact, but I have not so far seen anything that gives me concern for anyone about free speech grounds. 'We have very strident protections for free speech in this country. 'This is not about free speech. This is about hateful, violent, extreme, misogynistic and pornographic material finding its way into children's feeds.' A former British soldier in Gaza has shared chaotic and unsettling scenes of civilians rushing to collect aid from a distribution site as essentials continued to trickle into the beleaguered Palestinian enclave. Andrew Fox, a former British Army airborne officer, shared a series of clips from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) site in Rafah, describing an 'influx of hungry Gazans coming to get their aid'. The video was shared on social media in the early hours of Tuesday morning, after Israel said on Sunday it would halt military operations for 10 hours a day in parts of the Gaza Strip and allow new aid corridors. Rival aid efforts have sparked a war of words, pitting Israel, the U.S. and the GHF against the U.N., international aid groups and dozens of governments from around the world. Some have accused Israel of deliberately starving Gaza's civilian population. Israel and the U.S. accuse Hamas of stealing aid - which they deny - and the U.N. of failing to prevent it. The U.N. says it has not seen evidence of mass aid diversion in Gaza by Hamas. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there is no policy of starvation in Gaza, and no starvation per se. Donald Trump diverged from Mr Netanyahu's comments on Monday, insisting there is 'real starvation' in Gaza. Asked if he agreed with Mr Netanyahu that it was a 'bold-faced lie' to say Israel was fuelling hunger, he said: 'I don't know...those children look very hungry...that's real starvation stuff.' On Monday night, Mr Netanyahu's office said that Israel would work with aid groups, the U.S. and Europe to ensure 'large amounts of humanitarian aid flows' into Gaza. A lone child among the crowds searches through a box of GHF-distributed aid in Gaza Mr Fox shared footage of Gazans rushing to collect aid in Rafah Gazans gather to collect aid from a distribution site in Rafah in video shared early Tuesday Children carry aid away from the distribution centre in video shared by Mr Andrew Fox A five-year-old girl suffers from malnutrition in Gaza City on July 28, 2025 Smoke rises from Gaza after an explosion, as seen from the Israeli side of the border, July 28 Israel said that 120 aid trucks had entered Gaza from crossings on Sunday, and that Jordan and the UAE had airdropped 28 packages of food. The GHF said it had delivered more than 95 million meals directly to Palestinians in Gaza in total. But on Monday, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza said a further 14 people had died from malnutrition over the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 147 since the start of the war, according to the ministry. It added today that more than 60,000 people have been killed since the war started. Israel has said that Hamas is using a so-called 'famine narrative' for leverage in ceasefire talks, which broke down last week as the U.S. and Israel left talks in Doha, suggesting a cynical 'lack of desire to reach a ceasefire' from Hamas. Hamas responded with incredulity and insisted it did want to continue negotiations. Hamas leader Khalil Al-Hayya then said on Monday there was 'no point in continuing negotiations' under current conditions. A source close to Hamas told CNN: 'After the Israeli side withdrew from the negotiations, Hamas is considering reversing the flexibility it had shown regarding the timeline for releasing the 10 living Israelis captives.' Until talks resume, Gaza's 2.1 million population remains in dire need of aid. Mr Fox's dispatch from Rafah offers a rare insight into the coordination of aid deliveries in the Gaza Strip. Journalists are pushing to be allowed in and out of the enclave and say reporting from the enclave is nearing 'extinction' with local reporters facing 'threat of starvation'. 'The flow of people just keeps coming,' Mr Fox said, reporting from the sidelines of the crowd in the first few minutes of opening. The initial influx was mostly young men, he said, who were ordered to dismount from motorbikes to avoid injuries. Within 20 minutes, he said, they were starting to see more women and children arrive to claim essentials held in reserve. Mr Fox's dispatch offers a rare insight into the coordination of aid deliveries in the Gaza Strip A military transport aircraft drops humanitarian aid over Al-Zawayda, in the central Gaza Strip, on July 28 The sun sets over Gaza, ravaged by war, as seen from the Israeli side of the border, July 28 Israeli soldiers drive on their armored personnel carrier back from inside the northern Gaza Strip into southern Israel, Tuesday, July 29, 2025 After 45 minutes, the aid had mostly been depleted. Mr Fox said the team had used smoke and flashbang grenades to 'encourage the last of the male crowd out of the site' to allow the team to hand out aid held in reserve for women and children. Mr Fox described GHF cardboard boxes, which he said were enough to buy one kilogram (2.2lbs) of flour in the barter economy. Increasingly, he said, Palestinians were taking empty boxes and wooden pallets to be used as firewood, with Gaza facing blackouts. 'No live rounds at all have been fired,' he said. Women and young people could be seen leaving the site with aid, waving and gesturing towards the camera. The GHF, a U.S.-backed private aid operation supported by Israel, has faced pressure in recent days after the UN reported that Israeli forces had killed more than 1,000 Palestinians seeking food aid, mostly near distribution points. Israel accused Hamas of instigating chaos near the aid sites. It said its troops had only fired warning shots, and that they do not deliberately shoot civilians. The GHF has accused Hamas of massive aid theft in defending its distribution model. An internal U.S. government analysis found no evidence of systematic theft of U.S.-funded humanitarian supplies by Hamas, challenging the rationale Israel and the U.S. give for backing the aid operation, as reported by Reuters last week. Mr Fox described the challenging environment facing locals as they waited to start distributing aid in Rafah. 'The terrain here is as destroyed as has been reported in the media. It's no lie. The place is wrecked. These people do need food. They do need feeding. They need the aid that these teams are bringing to them. 'This is really, really hot. There is water on site but people are still struggling for the very basics of life, and GHF are here to try and at least alleviate some of that suffering.' Newborns are treated in neonatal units are experiencing skin rashes and irritation as a result of excessive heat and inadequate climate control (July 28) A child, 10, struggles with malnutrition and a skin condition in Khan Yunis, Gaza on July 28 Two Israeli APCs manoeuvre on the Israeli side of the border with Gaza, July 28, 2025 Destroyed buildings lie in Gaza, as seen from the Israeli side of the border, July 28, He wrote in a July 24 blog that while aid was entering Gaza, 'the grim truth is that supply is not the same as access'. 'Gaza's crisis is mainly a result of distribution collapse and governance issues, worsened by Hamas's tactics and the paralysis of traditional aid channels.' In testimonies shared with MailOnline, International Rescue Committee (IRC) staff inside Gaza described harrowing scenes. 'People are collapsing in the streets from emaciation... I saw a child digging through a pile of trash for food. He found nothing,' said IRC staffer Abdelraheem Hamad. 'The sound of children crying from hunger never stops. Every day, people knock on our doors asking for food. Not money just bread,' said staffer Rania Al Shrehi. The leading international authority on food crises said in a new alert Tuesday that the 'worst-case scenario of famine is currently playing out in the Gaza Strip', predicting 'widespread death' without immediate action. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC, said Gaza has teetered on the brink of famine for two years, but recent developments have 'dramatically worsened' the situation, including 'increasingly stringent blockades' by Israel. The IPC is a global initiative that partners with 21 aid groups, international organizations, and U.N. agencies, and assesses the extent of hunger suffered by a population. The alert, still short of a formal famine declaration, follows an outcry over images of emaciated children in Gaza and reports of dozens of hunger-related deaths after nearly 22 months of war. An Israeli soldier works on a tank in a staging area on the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Tuesday, July 29 Palestinians search through the rubble of their homes for any belongings after Israeli airstrikes hit homes in a new camp northwest of Nuseirat in Gaza Strip on July 29 Donald Trump meets with Keir Starmer in Scotland on Monday A Palestinian youth carries a bag as he walks in the Mawasi area of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on July 28 While international pressure led Israel over the weekend to announce measures to deliver more aid, the United Nations and Palestinians on the ground say little has changed, and desperate crowds continue to overwhelm and unload delivery trucks before they can reach their destinations. 'Formal famine declarations always lag reality,' David Miliband, head of the International Rescue Committee aid group, said in a statement ahead of the IPC alert. 'By the time that famine was declared in Somalia in 2011, 250,000 people - half of them children under 5 - had already died of hunger. By the time famine is declared, it will already be too late,' he said. 'In the coming days, thousands of Gaza's children will either be rescued or allowed to die. That is the choice before us.' The conflict between Israel and Gaza continued as aid agencies scrambled to deliver essentials. Gaza's civil defence said Tuesday that Israeli air strikes killed at least 30 Palestinians, including women and children, in the central Nuseirat district. Civil defence agency spokesman Mahmud Basal said the strikes were carried out overnight and into the morning and 'targeted a number of citizens' homes' in the Nuseirat refugee camp. The war in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas killed 1,200 people in southern Israel and took some 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. Police are investigating a suspected murder suicide after a woman was stabbed to death in a quiet street and a man in his 20s was found dead on train tracks. The woman in her 60s was found with multiple stab wounds at a house in Romford, east London, at around 9pm on Sunday. She was pronounced dead at the scene and police have launched a murder probe. Meanwhile, the body of a 20-year-old-man was found on the train tracks at Romford railway station earlier on Sunday. His death is being treated as non-suspicious, the British Transport Police have said. No arrests had been made as of Tuesday morning and the investigation remains ongoing. However, early enquiries by the Met Police suggest the man and woman were known to each other. A spokesperson for the force said: 'A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a woman in Romford. The woman in her 60s was found with multiple stab wounds at a house in Romford, east London, at around 9pm on Sunday. Photo from the scene The body of a 20-year-old-man was found on the train tracks at Romford railway station (pictured) earlier on Sunday 'Officers received a report at around 21:00hrs on Sunday, 27 July from British Transport Police (BTP) following concerns for the welfare of a woman at an address in Bushy Close, RM1. 'On arrival, officers located a woman in her 60s with multiple stab wounds. She was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. 'A murder investigation has been launched and officers have remained in the area throughout today to continue enquiries. 'Met officers continue to work closely with BTP following information that connects the woman's death to that of a 20-year-old-man on the train tracks at Romford railway station earlier on Sunday. 'BTP are treating the mans death as non-suspicious. 'The womans family have been notified and continue to be supported by specialist officers.' Detective chief inspector Joanna Yorke, from the Met's Specialist Crime Command said: 'Our thoughts remain with victim's family at this difficult time as we investigate the circumstances behind this terrible incident. No arrests had been made as of Tuesday morning and the investigation remains ongoing. Pictured: General view of Bushy Close 'At this stage, we believe this to be an isolated incident with no wider risk to the public'. Detective superintendent Simon Giles, from the East Area investigations team added: 'I understand that the incident is distressing for the community and we are working closely with our colleagues in the Specialist Crime Command to progress the investigation as quickly as possible. 'Those in the area today can expect to see our officers and we encourage anyone with any information to speak with them.' MailOnline has contacted the Met Police and the British Transport Police for further comment. A model was filmed strutting around in fantasy body paint after demanding 3m as she falsely claimed an NHS blunder had left her in a wheelchair. Kae Burnell-Chambers, 44, insisted she struggled to walk, get out of a car and dress herself because of nerve damage caused by delayed diagnosis of her condition. But social media videos from the Kustom Culture Blast Off festival painted a different picture as they showed Ms Burnell-Chambers was in fact mobile to the extent she could parade around as a fantasy warrior along with other body paint models. The video was filmed months before Ms Burnell-Chambers launched her multimillion-pound damages bid over delayed diagnosis of her cauda equina syndrome - a condition involving damage to nerves at the end of the spinal cord. Whilst the condition was genuine, the model admitted exaggerating her symptoms in light of the footage showing no signs of her having difficulty getting around. Ms Burnell-Chambers now faces up to two years in jail after Judge Jonathan Glasson KC found her guilty of contempt of court after she admitted she had 'misrepresented' her symptoms during her claim. Cauda equina syndrome is a condition that occurs when the bundle of nerves below the end of the spinal cord, known as the cauda equina, is damaged. Signs and symptoms include low back pain, numbness and pain that radiates down the leg, but early diagnosis and treatment can lead to long term effects being much reduced. Social media videos from the Kustom Culture Blast Off festival revealed a different story as they showed Ms Burnell-Chambers (pictured) was in fact mobile The model insisted she struggled to walk, get out of a car and dress herself because of nerve damage. Picture shows bodypainting artist and model Kae Burnell Chambers (3rd from left) Model Kae Burnell Chambers is seen in video footage during a medico legal visit where she 'displayed a laboured gait and used a stick' Sadie Crapper, barrister for Northern Lincolnshire And Goole NHS Foundation Trust, told the court that after NHS doctors missed early signs of the condition in 2016, Ms Burnell-Chambers, from Lincolnshire, a fine art graduate specialising in body painting, launched a bid for damages in 2019. Ms Burnell-Chambers was said to have attended medico-legal appointments where she complained of 'a whole array of disabilities', and said she needed help to dress and to get out of the car. The barrister explained that when she went to see a doctor she had 'displayed a laboured gait and used a stick'. However, Ms Burnell-Chambers went on to drop her claim in 2022 after social media videos and surveillance footage showed the picture of her disabilities she had been presenting to support her claim was 'fundamentally dishonest'. Ms Crapper said: '[Ms Burnell-Chambers] contended that she was significantly disabled by reason of the consequences of the delayed diagnosis of a second episode of cauda equina that she, for example, walked only with a stick and to a maximum of 100 yards...and in consequence thereof required significant levels of care, aids and equipment, including mobility scooter and wheelchair, boot hoist and Motability vehicle, single level accommodation etc.' The barrister added that 'following disclosure of surveillance evidence and social media material in the clinical negligence claim, she served a notice of discontinuance'. Ms Burnell-Chambers went on to drop her claim in 2022 after social media videos and surveillance footage showed the picture of her disabilities she had been presenting to support her claim was 'fundamentally dishonest' One of the videos was filmed the same morning Ms Burnell-Chambers saw the medico-legal expert displaying high levels of disability, though the film showed her 'at a petrol station with her mum walking with no problem'. A major element of the NHS case was based on a series of social media videos showing Ms Burnell-Chambers working as a bodypaint artist and model at a series of conventions and festivals around the UK. One particular video from the Kustom Kulture Blast Off in August 2019 'shows her having her body extensively painted and then parading in a show where she walks freely and dances without need for a walking aid', the barrister said. Ms Crapper added: 'By no later than 2017, she had recovered well enough to make a return to body painting. 'What you see in these videos is somebody who goes to conventions around the country. 'She's seen to walk without a mobility aid, crouch and converse about the work she's doing freely and without any sign of pain. 'The person seen on the videos is markedly different from the person seen in the medico legal documents and her witness statement. 'She has at all times known she participated in these conventions, undertook this painting and modelling, and could walk as she did on the footage now available.' The barrister said: 'What you see in these videos is somebody who goes to conventions around the country' The court heard Ms Burnell-Chambers admitted her condition varies and her mobility is almost normal on good days, and that she had been exaggerating when she saw the medico legal expert doctor Ms Crapper explained it was the NHS Trust's case that Ms Burnell-Chambers had 'fraudulently exaggerated her symptoms for the purposes of her clinical negligence claim'. She said: '[Ms Burnell-Chambers] now admits that she is in contempt of court and accepts that the custody threshold has been crossed in respect of her wrongdoing.' The court heard Ms Burnell-Chambers admitted her condition varies and her mobility is almost normal on good days, and that she had been exaggerating when she saw the medico legal expert doctor. 'She admitted she had been fundamentally dishonest,'' but nevertheless has real 'ongoing disabilities', her barrister Ben Bradley KC told the court. The judge, giving his ruling, said she had signed an admission that she had 'deceived' the examining doctors 'and deliberately changed my presentation' and that in doing so had 'deliberately interfered with the administration of justice'. In her admission statement, she said her mobility is near normal 'on good days' but 'on bad days' she considers herself to be disabled. On seeing some experts on the claim, she deliberately attempted to demonstrate what she perceived her function was at its worst, without telling the experts that was what she was doing, it was heard. 'I know it was wrong to misrepresent my presentation whilst making a civil claim. I accept that I deserve to be punished as a result,' she added. At the end of a half-day hearing, the judge concluded: 'I find the defendant guilty of contempt of court on the basis of her admissions.' He went on to grant permission for contempt proceedings to be discontinued against Ms Burnell-Chambers' mother, Lynne Clifford, on the basis of a statement she made supporting her daughter's claim. Ms Burnell-Chambers will now return to court to be sentenced in October. The maximum term for contempt of court is two years' imprisonment. Chinese medical team in Niger performs successful cervical spine surgery Xinhua) 13:18, July 29, 2025 NIAMEY, July 28 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese medical team in Niger recently performed a high-risk cervical spine surgery, successfully treating a 16-year-old patient who had lost function in his right upper limb following an accident. According to the team, the patient, identified as Alkassou, was injured on July 9 after falling from the back of a cow while herding. He was later diagnosed with a C4-C5 cervical fracture and dislocation with locked facet joints, a condition that carries a high risk of paralysis or respiratory failure if not properly managed. The Chinese medical team, in collaboration with local colleagues at the General Referral Hospital of Niamey, conducted a detailed assessment and developed a surgical plan: anterior cervical reduction, bone graft fusion, and internal fixation using a plate and screw system. The surgery was led by Li Xiaofeng, an associate chief physician with the Chinese medical team, under close monitoring by the anesthesia team. The procedure involved realigning the dislocated vertebrae, placing a bone graft into the narrow disc space, and securing the affected segment with an anterior fixation system. The operation was completed successfully without complications. Three days after the surgery, the patient was able to walk along the hospital corridor. One week post-operation, his recovery showed positive signs, with improved mobility in the right hand and arm joints, and the ability to grasp objects. Although full strength in the right arm had not yet returned, doctors reported continued improvement. The successful operation is believed to have enhanced the clinical experience of the Chinese medical team and the medical staff of the General Referral Hospital in the Nigerien capital in managing complex spinal injuries under resource-limited conditions. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) This is the 'bone chilling' moment a colony of newborn African spiders turn to hunt their own mothers. The footage was captured for David Attenborough's new series Parenthood. In the never before seen behaviour, a pack of African social spiders are shown hunting in packs and responding to the vibrations of their prey as they struggle in the webs. The spiders move in unison, starting and stopping at the same time, freezing together in a sinister game of musical statues. Even more disturbing, after displaying their hunting skills on their usual prey of insects, the 1,000 strong colony then turns on their own mothers and eat them alive. Sir David was both 'delighted and horrified' by the groundbreaking footage when he narrated it, series producer and director Jeff Wilson told The Guardian. 'I never heard Sir David deliver a sequence as good as that it sort of brings a lump to your throat he's the master at deliver,' Wilson said. The terrifying footage is accompanied with eerie music by Mulan and Ted Lasso composer Tom Howe. In the terrifying video, the baby spiders turn on their own mothers and eat them alive The mother spiders and her sisters are all eaten by their children hunting in packs Sir David Attenborough, 99, was both 'delighted and horrified' by the groundbreaking footage The female spiders will take care of their young from birth until they are eventually consumed by them Wilson said the footage is among the best he has worked on in 30 years and is likely to chill parents 'to the bone'. He joked: 'There will not be a parent of the land who won't turn up to school pickup without snacks ever again.' Scientists believe the ageing spiders deliberately mimic their struggling prey, making vibrations to attract their young spiders to provide the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the survival of their offspring. The video has been compared to another breakout moment in 2016 ahead of the release of Planet Earth II, when footage of an iguana against hundreds of snakes went viral. The astonishing television showed marine iguanas attempting to outrun a knot of racer snakes on Fernandina Island was labelled the stuff of nightmares. Hatchlings could be seen emerging from the sand of the Galapagos island in the Pacific Ocean in June for what is the snakes best feeding opportunity of the year. The footage showed some iguanas outrun the snakes to safety by the sea while others were caught before the snakes wrapped themselves around them. When the crew saw the snakes for the first time, they were too shocked to film - and host Sir David Attenborough had never seen anything like it either, it was claimed. The spiders hunt in packs, starting and stopping in unison in an unnerving game of musical statues After laying around 50 eggs and feeding them with their decomposing insides, the tired mothers make the ultimate sacrifice Director Jeff Wilson said the footage is among the best he has worked on in 30 years Among the millions of viewers captivated by the footage shown at 8pm last night was Olympic rower Will Satch, who described it as a real life horror film. The new footage of the African social spiders is likely to spark a debate among parents about what sacrifices they are willing to make for their children. African social spiders live in large nests of up to 50 adult sisters, who hunt together in packs within the nests to engulf prey that becomes trapped in the spider webs. Each mother lays up to 50 eggs. When they hatch , the mother feeds her spiderlings with regurgitated 'milk' made from decomposing her own insides. The shocking footage was captured in Namibia and has never been seen before by television audiences. Parenthood is also set to feature stories of gorillas, orangutans, elephants and cheetahs among many others. The footage was captured over three years and over six continent's and is the first BBC natural history series to focus on parenting. The team used new technology to capture the weird and wonderful in the wild, including using military-grade infrared cameras mounted on gimbals on off-road vehicles o show hippos being chased by lions at night. Parenthood airs on Sunday, August 3 at 7.20pm on BBC One. All episodes will be available on BBC iPlayer. A man has been left with serious injuries and his dog killed in an attack at a park in Aberdeen. Police have launched an attempted murder investigation after the Eric Hendrie Park attack at around 8.30pm on Sunday. Police were called to reports of a 'vehicle in the park' and a 'disturbance'. Investigators are appealing for witnesses. The victim, a 51-year-old man, was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary where his condition is said to be 'serious but stable'. His XL bully dog died in the attack. Detective Sergeant Emma Low said the investigation is still at an early stage and she appealed for anyone with information to come forward. 'Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact officers through 101 quoting incident number 3236 of July 27. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.' Police cordon at Eric Hendrie Park, Aberdeen, on Monday following a man being rushed to hospital As police arrived at the scene they saw a vehicle parked in the park and what officers are calling an 'incident' which resulted in the death of the victim's XL Bully (stock image) In February last year, the XL Bully became illegal to breed, sell, give away or allow an American bully XL to stray. Anyone owning one should have a certificate of exemption, which means they must have the dog microchipped and neutered, as well as have third-party public liability insurance Owners are also not allowed to walk the dog in public without a lead or a muzzle. The animals must also be housed securely so as to stop them from escaping. The ban was brought in last year after a spate of horror dog attacks, with police forces across the country seeing a surge in the number of attacks. Cotswolds locals have warned JD Vance he will have 'nowhere to park' as the US Vice President prepares for a family get away in their market town. In recent weeks, Charlbury has seen many high profile guests, including Kamala Harris who visited during Steve Jobs's daughter Eve's wedding. But despite being accustomed to star-studded visitors, the arrival of Donald Trump's right-hand man has caused a stir among locals. Many have even speculated on where he will stay, with guesses including Grade II listed estate Lee Place, built in 1640 with links to the historic Blenheim Palace. Others believe he will holiday in a mansion owned by the billionaire Bamford family, and some predict he will need the security offered by the nearby Cornbury Park. But choice of accommodation isn't the main worry Vance should have on his visit to the Costwolds town, locals say. Many say his biggest problem will be navigating the narrow streets and finding suitable parking for his large motorcade and security team. Neighbouring Clarkson's Farm Charlbury is the 'checkpoint Charlie' of the sprawling Cotswolds, the town's vicar said. Fergus Butler-Gallie, 33, the town's vicar who has lived in the area for 19 months, said: 'I'm just hoping they bring us Al Gore and Dick Cheney next, we've almost completed the set. JD Vance, his wife Usha Vance, daughter Mirabel and sons Ewan (L) and Vivek pose during their tour at the Taj Mahal earlier this year Cotswolds locals have warned JD Vance he will have 'nowhere to park' as the US Vice President prepares for a family getaway in their market town A business owner in Charlbury said the high profile visit was the 'talk of the town' 'We get all sorts of people here - we've got Mr Clarkson up the road. It's noticeably got busier in the time I've been here.' 'It's nice to be visited, and it's good the town can maintain two pubs and several shops. There are a lot of places like ours which wouldn't be able to keep that up. 'We can, and of course that's because of tourism.' He says tourists often arrive having now idea where they are, assuming ' the Cotswolds is some sort of theme park rather than a large region'. 'But I suspect Mr Vance's people will be pretty thoroughly briefed,' he added. Currently cars are parked on both sides of the narrow streets, with residents saying the market town becomes very easily congested. And the parking chaos becomes worse during the summer season, when tourists come through the town to and from festivals and countryside retreats. To add to traffic woes, the only way of moving around the town centre for the last decade has been one-way system, according to locals. In recent weeks, Charlbury has seen many high profile guests, including Kamala Harris who visited during Steve Jobs's daughter Eve's wedding The town's vicar, Fergus Butler-Gallie (pictured left) described the town as the 'checkpoint Charlie' of the sprawling Cotswolds (Pictured right: Local resident Zena McGreavy) The Vice-President's wife Usha discovered the country cottage they're expected to settle in after visiting London in mid-August, the Telegraph reported 'I hope his visit goes well,' Mark Jones (pictured) said of JD Vance's visit. 'I haven't heard anything about protests - and I wouldn't join them, either. A business owner said the high profile visit was the 'talk of the town'. 'They've locked our local website forum so people can't say any more about it,' they said. 'If they come into my shop, I won't bat an eyelid. I serve my customers. 'I'm just worried about the parking, all those secret service cars! Good luck to him - getting round these roads is no joke. 'They'll have some fun with these lanes, getting around in a big car.' Elizabeth Sparks, a local secondary school cover teacher who has lived in the area for 16 years, said she too was mainly worried about the cars that came with the VP. 'The other day, the bus driver came into the pub and said, 'who drives the car with this particular number plate? You need to move it.' He couldn't drive past. 'The bus gets stuck, it gets very hard to park. The residential parking makes that even harder - good luck to him.' The Vice President's wife Usha discovered the country cottage they're expected to settle in after visiting London in mid-August, the Telegraph reported. An aerial view of the Cotswolds town of Chalbury Charlbury is home to The Bull Inn, recently named Britain's best pub - and the venue of an A-list party ahead of the wedding of Apple heiress Eve Jobs to Olympian Harry Charles Many have even placed guesses on where he will stay, with guesses including Grade II listed estate Lee Place, built in 1640 with links to the historic Blenheim Palace The Cotswolds town is one of the most popular destinations in the increasingly A-List area (pictured: Cornbury Park, a 5000-acre estate bordering on the town) Mr Vance has endured a turbulent first 200 days as Vice President of the United States Mark Jones, a 67-year-old retired programme volunteer, said the town has a 'strong community' interest. 'You get mostly locals during the week and lots of tourists coming from everywhere at the weekends. And there are lots of festivals every summer. 'I hope his visit goes well,' he said. 'I haven't heard anything about protests - and I wouldn't join them, either. 'When Kamala Harris visited last week, it seemed to go very quietly. Hopefully the same will happen again.' Zena McGreavey, a 57-year-old exhibition officer at a museum in Oxford, has lived in the area for 18 months. She said: 'There does seem to be a lot happening around here nowadays. It's surprising they find us - Charlbury is such a hidden gem. 'People are talking about it in The Bull Pub, it's caused a stir - but I don't think people mind him coming. 'There was a bit of confusion about where he's going to be staying, people want to know.' A woman who falsely branded a man a 'rapist, a paedophile and a woman beater' after he dumped her following a one night stand has been jailed. Kirsty White, 28, hurled abuse at Andrew Crosby, warned him not to contact police and sent him messages through bank transfers declaring her undying love for him. Mr Crosby ended up fleeing his home with his parents and considered taking his own life over the two-month campaign of abuse, a court heard. White, from Runcorn, Cheshire, was jailed for 43 weeks this week after she admitted stalking between April and June this year. Warrington Magistrates' Court heard the pair had a one night stand in December last year after they met in a pub. But Miss Elizabeth Browne, prosecuting, said: 'The complainant did not want a relationship at that time. 'In March 2025, they were going on a night out in Blackpool and the defendant asked Mr Crosby if they were going to be intimate and he said "No". 'On April 11, the complainant lent 20 to the defendant but she did not pay it back and he asked her to leave him alone. Kirsty White, 28, (pictured) hurled abuse at Andrew Crosby, warned him not to contact police and sent him messages through bank transfers declaring her undying love for him White, from Runcorn, Cheshire, was jailed for 43 weeks this week after she admitted stalking between April and June this year 'The defendant then posted Mr Crosby's personal details on Facebook, accusing him of being a woman beater. 'On April 18, she went to Mr Crosby's address and started shouting towards him, calling him a 'rapist' and a 'paedophile'. 'These are all untrue allegations. He called 999, told her to leave him alone and blocked her. 'But on April 19, he received messages asking to be unblocked and got a call from a number he did not recognise and a text message saying "Hello. Do not ring the police on me again". White was arrested and bailed on the condition she did not contact Mr Crosby. However, over a ten day period she sent him small amounts of money via online bank transfers with messages in the reference saying: 'Love you always, Kirsty White'. She then contacted him over Facebook using different profiles and sent him two parcels. Now believed to be sofa surfing with friends, Mr Crosby told police: 'As a result of this crime, I suffer severe anxiety and I am constantly looking behind my back. 'Kirsty had been staying with her father over the road from me and this has caused my family a lot of stress and put a stain on our relationship. 'It caused me to become physically sick due to Kirsty constantly trying to contact me and also trying to get my attention. Warrington Magistrates' Court (pictured) heard the pair had a one night stand in December last year after they met in a pub 'Kirsty has been messaging my family and friends asking for my address. I am very wary of other people due to this. 'It will take a lot to trust anyone. I have been trying to get an appointment with my GP and it is getting to the point where I am becoming suicidal and seeking to get help. 'My dad suffers from epilepsy. He had four seizures and has been told they were brought on by stress. 'My mother has also been in hospital due to the stress caused to her. 'I have not been able to sleep over the last few months due to the constant worry of Kirsty turning up at my address or having someone sent around due to what Kirsty posted on Facebook. 'It caused me a lot of stress and will affect any relationship I may have. 'I recently had a panic attack due to seeing someone walk past an address where I was staying. I thought it was Kirsty. It has taken over my life. 'I feel I see Kirsty everywhere I go. I should not have to live like this. I feel very vulnerable. 'I have to constantly watch what I am doing, and who I am talking to. I feel she is constantly trying to ruin my life. 'I have to be very wary even of what shops I go to in case Kirsty is there.' White had previous convictions for sending indecent or offensive communications and harassment. Her lawyer Mark Lever said: 'She is a highly vulnerable young lady who has significant mental health issues. 'She has said categorically that she has forgotten and will forget about Mr Crosby. Hopefully, you won't see Kirsty back before the courts again.' White was also ordered to pay 400 in compensation to Mr Crosby and was banned from contacting him for five years under the terms of a restraining order. JP Jeffrey Dodd said: 'I think everyone is in agreement that this is a really serious offence. 'We have been swayed by the victim impact statement. We feel Mr Crosby has had his life significantly impacted by your actions.' They want better pay and work conditions Thousands of teachers are planning to shut down every school in one Australian state in an attempt to pry more money out of the government. Teachers will perform a 24-hour work stoppage across all Queensland state schools on Wednesday August 6, which will result in students being unable to attend classes. The strike will be the Queensland Teachers Union's first in 16 years and has been approved by an 'overwhelmingly' positive internal vote amongst its members. Any teachers who are not in the union will still attend work on the day but those who are members said they were left with 'no other option'. Of the 38,243 total votes cast 36,583 approved the strike after the government offered a salary increase which the union rejected in June. This proposal would have seen state teachers receive an immediate pay rise of 3 per cent followed by another 2.5 per cent increase each year for two years. It took 17 meetings over the course of five months to get to that initial offer, Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek said. Shadow Education Minister Di Farmer accused the LNP of prioritising politics over listening to the concerns of teachers. The Queensland Teachers Union will perform a 24-hour strike on August 6 Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek said he had tried resolving the issue with the union to no avail Ms Farmer wants 'nation-leading' pay and conditions offered to state teachers. 'For dedicated teachers to walk off the job shows just how serious they are about this insulting offer from the government,' she said. 'The LNP are too busy playing politics, while our teachers are forced to fight for nation-leading pay and conditions. 'Why won't the Premier and his Education Minister back them with nation-leading pay and conditions?' Mr Langbroek said his government is committed to remaining at the negotiating table until the issue is resolved. 'The Government has requested conciliation through the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission to progress an agreement,' he said. 'Student safety will remain the priority and principals will inform parents about impacts on their school community.' Queensland Teachers Union President Cresta Richardson reaffirmed her union's strike is a protected action in response to the Crisafulli government's failure to finalise a deal. State teachers are looking to secure better working conditions and a pay rise Shadow Education Minister Di Farmer said the LNP was 'too busy playing politics' to resolve the issue Brisbane teacher Damion Douglass said the strike had to happen. 'This is about teachers carrying a broken system on our backs while being told to sit tight and smile through it,' he told the Courier Mail. 'We've spoken. We've written letters. We've marched in unity. We've stayed late, showed up tired, covered the gaps, and absorbed the pressure. And in return, we get a reminder that our pay will be docked if we make noise.' School principals will be responsible for the safety and wellbeing of students during the strike. Concerned parents have already begun reaching out to schools in an attempt to make sense of what will happen if teachers do not show up for work. There are 48,642 members in the Queensland Teachers Union and many will attend a rally at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on the day of the strike. An actress has been left terrified after thieves broke into her Marbella flat as she slept and stole nearly 60,000 from her. Noemi Hopper, a Spanish actress who has starred in a Disney+ series, took to TikTok to vent her frustrations after burglars broke into a flat in Benahavis, Marbella, she and her friends were staying in. On July 21, the five tenants woke up to discover that someone had Noemi's blue Chanel handbag, valued at 8,600 (7,460), as well as a Rolex watch worth 60,000 (52,000). It is the latest late-night break in to hit Marbella, after a horrified mother revealed that a pervert burglar broke into her home and leered at her as she slept naked. Noemi said: 'I just woke up and we've realised that last night some thieves entered the house we're staying at.' She said while weeping: 'And they have taken my friend's watch. They have taken my blue Chanel bag. I mean, they must have been super-professional.' Local media reported that while the property she and her friends were staying in normally has a security guard service and alarm, they were not set on the night of the robbery. The young people staying in the flat believe the burglar, or burglars, broke into the house through the living room's sliding door. Noemi Hopper (pictured), a Spanish actress who has starred in a Disney+ series, took to TikTok to vent her frustrations after burglars broke into a flat in Benahavis, Marbella On July 21, the five tenants woke up to discover that someone had Noemi's blue Chanel handbag, valued at 8,600 (7,460), as well as a Rolex watch worth 60,000 (52,000) Noemi said: 'I just woke up and we've realised that last night some thieves entered the house we're staying at' Spanish cops are now looking into the incident, after Noemi filed a complaint. Last week, a woman told how she felt violated after a burglar broke into her home in the dead of the night and leered at her naked body as she slept. Angie Castillo was in a deep sleep laying next to her boyfriend Alex Varona, 34, when the intruder hold a torch gained entry to their Costa Del Sol property and and 'inspect' her close up. Angie, a mother-of-one, was unaware of what had happened to her until the following day when she noticed her purse was missing and the couple checked the CCTV footage in their home. To their horror, the 32-minute clip showed the masked raider silently creeping around their bedroom looking at Angie on the bed. He appeared to be fixated with her as he repeatedly shone his torch over her body. Speaking exclusively to MailOnline Angie said she could have been raped if she'd been sleeping alone. 'I looked at the camera and my blood ran cold', she said. 'The guy came into the room eight times. He was looking in between my legs, at my intimate parts, looking at my face. He forgot all about the burglary. He was more interested in looking at me.' 'I was very scared, I was shaking. I was in shock. The day before my boyfriend Alex had been in Germany. If I had been alone this man might have raped me. 'Half an hour after he left the house, I went to the toilet. Perhaps if I had seen him I would have screamed. Alex would have done something. But the intruder might have been carrying a knife or a pistol.' Pictured: Angie Castillo, who was victim to a home intrusion in Marballa last month CCTV footage captured how the intruder shone his flashlight on Angie's body as she slept naked Angie Castillo and her partner Alex Varona, a black belt jiu-jitsu champion, were both sound asleep when the pervert burglar entered their home in Marbella last month 'I am still traumatised by this,' she said. 'Before I go to the toilet at night, I look at the cameras. If Alex leaves the bed at night, I jump. I am now seeing a psychologist.' Instead of stealing her gold ring, 400 Philipp Plein watch or other jewellery, he only took 300 in cash from her purse and dumped it. Spanish police are analysing the security footage to identify the suspect, but no arrests have been yet made. Two Rochdale grooming gang ringleaders could finally be deported to Pakistan by the end of this year, officials there have revealed - after a decade's delay. British officials have been trying to deport Qari Abdul Rauf, 55, and Adil Khan, 54, following their leading roles in the grooming gangs scandal. The UK this month dropped a ban on direct flights between the two countries dating back five years yet still the two men have remained in the Greater Manchester town. But after Pakistan's government was believed to have used the pair's detention as a 'bargaining chip', there are suggestions now they could take the men back. That would be in return for Britain's decision to lift a previous five-year ban on Pakistani International Airlines. A senior Pakistani government official involved in talks on Rauf and Khan has now indicated his nation's interior ministry must now give legal clearance for their return. He was quoted by the Times as saying: 'I believe a resolution could be reached within a month or two, although there are some legal and political complexities involved. 'Currently, the case is being handled by Pakistans interior ministry. Once they provide clearance, it will be passed to the foreign ministry, which will finalise the acceptance of Rauf and Khan.' Politicians and members of the Pakistani government have been in engaged in 'high-level talks' to allow Qari Abdul Rauf, pictured, and Adil Khan to be deported Adil Khan got a 13-year-old girl pregnant but denied he was the father, then met another girl and trafficked her to others The two groomers were at the heart of a child abuse ring where girls as young as 12 were groomed with free booze and drugs before being gang-raped. They held dual British-Pakistani citizenship but were stripped of their British nationality when they were convicted and jailed in 2012. Both men then renounced their Pakistani citizenship, in a cynical move that made them stateless and consequently much trickier to deport due to international law. In 2022, they both lost an appeal against deportation after a seven-year legal battle that cost the British taxpayer a fortune, but they kept living in Rochdale because Pakistan would not take them back. But Islamabad's position could now change, according to reports, now that UK ministers have given the green light for direct flights to resume between the two countries. The country's national carrier PIA was barred from operating inside the EU and UK in 2020. That followed an incident on May 22 that year when a passenger flight from Lahore to Karachi crashed, killing 97 out of the 99 people on board as well as an additional victim on the ground. Married father-of-five Rauf, a religious studies teacher at a Rochdale mosque, would drive schoolgirls to other men who would rape and abuse them. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) passenger plane sits on the runway in 2023. The carrier has been banned from flying direct to the UK following safety concerns after a crash in 2020 Rochdale grooming gang member Qari Abdul Rauf, who spent two years and six months in jail, was seen leaving his home in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, on January 18, 2024 He walked free in 2014 after serving just two and a half years of a six-year prison sentence. Last month, the Daily Mail revealed how he built a house in his native Pakistan despite receiving 285,000 of taxpayers' money in a battle against being deported, casting fresh doubts on claims he had cut ties with Pakistan. Khan was convicted of sex trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child. The offender, who had a baby with one of the victims aged just 13 at the time, served four years of an eight-year jail term before being released in 2016. Rauf ferried victims from Rochdale to sex parties as far away as Leeds and Bradford, in a scandal that ultimately led to nine men being convicted for trafficking and abusing almost 50 girls. Officials in Islamabad last month told the Times that Pakistan could finally agree to take the two men once direct flights are resumed. And the British High Commission in Pakistan subsequently confirmed PIA was once again legally allowed to fly non-stop routes into the UK. A spokesperson said: 'After a sustained, independent and technically driven process, the UKs Air Safety Committee has lifted its restrictions on Pakistani carriers. Rochdale grooming gang member Abdul Rauf, 55, has built a house in his home village in Pakistan, despite continuing to fight deportation from Britain 11 years after being freed from prison 'It will take time for flights to resume, but this is an important step, and a testament to Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority's air safety improvements. 'Individual airline carriers will still need to apply for permits to operate to the UK through the UK Civil Aviation Authority.' Jane Marriott, the UK high commissioner to Pakistan, added at the time: 'Im grateful to aviation experts in the UK and Pakistan for their collaborative work to drive improvements to meet international safety standards. 'While it will take time for flights to resume, once the logistics are in place, I look forward to using a Pakistani carrier when visiting family and friends.' An estimated 1.6million people of Pakistani heritage are believed to be living in the UK. Paul Waugh, Labour MP for Rochdale, has now said following the latest reported progress: 'Ever since I was elected, I have been working constantly with ministers to deport these Rochdale grooming gang ringleaders to Pakistan. 'The last government failed to boot these vile paedophiles out of Britain. That's totally unacceptable to me, to the people of Rochdale and most of all to their victims. 'I know that we are having to deal with a complex diplomatic and legal process, but Ive ensured this is a high priority within government and Im encouraged that progress sounds like it is being made. The sooner we see the back of them, the better.' Rauf's neighbours in Rochdale (pictured) have told of their disgust at him being permitted to still live in the same town where he carried out his vile crimes Rauf - pictured leaving his Rochdale home on January 18, 2024 - was stripped of his British citizenship, but his deportation has been held up as Pakistan reportedly refused to take him Earlier this year, Daily Mail revealed that Rauf was working in Rochdale as a delivery driver, prompting fears he might meet one of his victims during the course of his work. His neighbours in Rochdale were disgusted that he was still allowed to live in the same town where he carried out his vile crimes. One mother, who lives just a few doors away, said: 'Nobody can believe that monster is still here, after what he did to those young girls. 'It's disgusting. What is the country coming to? Why is he still here?' And furious neighbours of Rauf in Rochdale described how they were terrified to let their children out of sight after the 55-year-old was released. The convicted paedophile was told he would be deported back to Pakistan after completing his sentence in 2014 - but he remains living in the Greater Manchester town more than a decade later. Rauf claims to be stateless after renouncing his Pakistani nationality however, his claim to have cut ties have now been thrown into doubt. Neighbours in the remote village which he left to move to Britain in the 1990s have revealed that the father-of-five has built a house there. Locals in the village of Charhoi in Pakistan-administered Kashmir say convicted paedophile Abdul Rauf has funded the construction of a house with the intention of living there when he is finally deported They said his intention was to live in it when he is finally kicked out of the UK. They also contradicted his claim during his battle against deportation that he would be at risk in Pakistan due to 'public opinion' because of his convictions, saying his family remains 'influential' there. Rauf was one of a nine-strong gang of Asian men who sexually assaulted 47 girls, some as young as 12, after plying them with drink and drugs. Their conviction in 2012 shocked the country and sparked years of campaigning by victims, which earlier this month finally prompted Sir Keir Starmer to agree to a national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal. Rauf who moved to the UK in 1997 lost an appeal against being stripped of British nationality in 2018. But he appealed against deportation on the grounds he had already renounced his Pakistani citizenship and would therefore be rendered stateless. Rauf has received a staggering 285,000 in legal aid as he bids to avoid being thrown out of the country, it emerged earlier this year. Despite losing the case, he remains in Rochdale where he works as a takeaway delivery driver as Pakistan won't accept him without valid travel documents. According to a villager in Charhoi, Rochdale grooming gang member Abdul Rauf's conviction would not be widely discussed if he is sent back as his family is 'influential' But inquiries by Daily Mail in his home village of Charhoi in Pakistan-administered Kashmir suggest he has retained close links. According to villagers who know the family, he has sent back money to fund the construction of a new house near the bazaar with the intention of living there himself. They said he initially allowed his elder brother to live there with his family but had now asked him to vacate the building. 'His brother lived there for few months but came back to his old home when his children told him to leave Abdul Rauf's home and go back to his old one,' the resident said. As part of his 2022 appeal against deportation, Rauf claimed that if he was sent back to Pakistan, he 'would be at risk due to the public opinion of the criminal conviction' and would not be 'protected' by the authorities there. But a villager cast doubt on his claim, saying that while locals knew about the case, he would be safe as a result of his family ties. 'Since they are influential and financially strong people in their street, this topic was not much discussed,' the resident said. Before his conviction, Rauf was seen as a pillar of Rochdale's Muslim community because of his role as a 'qari', a cleric who reads from the Koran. But the men's trial heard how he trafficked a 15-year-old girl for sex, driving her to secluded areas to have sex with her in his taxi and ferrying her to a flat in Rochdale where he and others had sex with her. A migrant caught with child abuse videos on his phone gave a thumbs up outside court after being spared jail and deportation. Osamah Al-Haddad was caught with three 'grotesque' videos when he arrived at Heathrow airport from Cairo, Egypt, in January 2024. Immigration officers uncovered the material, including 'depraved' footage of a man having sex with a goat, when they searched his mobile during asylum screening. The Yemen native, 26, originally came to the UK on a student visa, then claimed asylum after insisting the Houthis were seeking out his father. He was also under pressure by the Houthis to join their army and claimed he is not able to return to Yemen because 'of his fear of repercussions [for] refusing to fight,' a court heard. Al-Haddad, of no fixed address, admitted three counts of making indecent photos of children and one count of making a pseudo-photograph of a child. He claimed to have no sexual interest in children and that the images were sent to him by a friend on WhatsApp. Al-Haddad was sentenced to 30 weeks, suspended for a year, and was also made subject to a sexual harm prevention order for ten years. He was also ordered to do 150 hours of unpaid work. A migrant caught with vile child abuse videos on his phone gave a thumbs up outside court after a judge spared him jail Yemen native Osamah Al-Haddad, 26, was let off the hook amid fears he might be forced to fight a war in his home country if returned In footage filmed by a passerby Al-Haddad can be seen denying any knowledge of the source of the images Last April, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper had set out plans to ban foreign sex offenders from gaining asylum in the UK, but any offender would have to be sentenced to more than a year in prison. Isleworth Crown Court heard how Al-Haddads asylum application was pending, but he is allowed to live and work in Plymouth, Devon. Although the defendant entered the country as an asylum seeker, he is now working in a restaurant,' said defence barrister John Hunter. He receives a monthly income of around 781 a month. He gives most to his wife and child back in Yemen, and he hopes to bring them to this country to live with him. Al-Haddad was assisted by an Arabic interpreter as Judge Fiona Barrie told him: You are 26 years of age, and you pleaded guilty to all offences. The category A video involves an act of bestiality which is grotesque and is depraved. You should do well to remember that this is a real child who has experienced this abuse, and those are significant aggravating factors. You claim you have no sexual interest in children and received the images from a WhatsApp group. Al-Haddad originally came to the UK on a student visa, then claimed asylum after insisting the Houthis were seeking out his father in Yemen Mr Hunter said Al-Haddads asylum application was pending, but he is allowed to live and work in Plymouth, Devon, Isleworth Crown Court heard But I share the concerns of the pre-sentence report which state that you are not entirely honest about that. You have had those videos saved since August 2021, in your possession to view and certainly not deleted by you.' In footage filmed by a passerby after sentencing, Al-Haddad can be seen denying any knowledge of the images' source as he tries to rush away following the verdict. He can be heard saying: 'I don't know. I explained them (the court) everything (sic)' before giving the filmer a thumbs up as he walks away. A furious row has erupted in Italy after a Jewish man claimed he and his six-year-old son were attacked at a motorway service area by an enraged pro-Palestinian crowd. The man, who has not been named, and his son had stopped to use the facilities at the rest area while driving from Milan to their home in Paris after a holiday. They were both wearing traditional Jewish kippahs and attracted the attention of people at the services near Lainate on the main Milan-Lagi motorway. The father, who managed to capture the incident on video as he and his son were insulted, said they were both left 'terrified'. In the clip which was later uploaded to social media, a group of people can be heard shouting in Italian 'Palestina Libera '(Free Palestine)' and 'Go back home'. Others also shout in Italian 'Assassini' (murderers) while another adds: 'This isn't Gaza, here is Italy' and another can be heard shouting: 'You will go to hell sooner or later'. The man's son can clearly be seen in the clip, and he looks on with a scared look on his face as the crowd increased their hostility At one point, the video appears to shake. In interviews with Italian media he claims to have been pushed to the floor and then kicked with the crowd demanding he delete the video. A man claims her and his six-year-old son were attacked at a motorway service area by an enraged pro-Palestinian crowd The man says he and his son were left 'terrified' by the ordeal Police eventually arrived after ten minutes and the man and his son were questioned about what happened. The video was shared on several anti Semitic campaign groups, with one commentator writing: 'This is how it started in the Netherlands when I was a boy in 1941. I'm seeing it happen all over again.' In an interview with Italian media, the man, 52, said: 'We were on our way back from a trip to Lake Maggiore and I was with my youngest son, his sister and her husband, who is Italian. 'We were driving back to Milan and then I was going to carry on back to Paris where I live and manage a clothes store. 'I was heading towards the bathroom when one of the cashiers saw me and shouted Free Palestine' and it was him who sparked everything off. 'I gestured that I couldn't speak Italian but that he should stop, and I then started to film him and at that point others joined in. 'People were shouting "killers" and "genocide" and I was trying to protect my young son and then tried to walk us both to the bathroom. 'When we came up the stairs from the bathroom, there was a crowd there and they told me to delete the video and started pushing me. In the video which was later uploaded onto social media a group of people can be heard shouting in Italian 'Palestina Libera '(Free Palestine)' and 'Go back home' The man who managed to capture the incident on video as he says he and his son were insulted and attacked said they were both left 'terrified'. 'At that point I lost sight of my son, and I thought I have to defend myself but I ended up on the ground. 'They were like animals kicking me. I couldn't see my son but fortunately a woman had taken him away and was looking after him in a corner. I saw wild animals.' When asked if he had expected something like this he said: 'Frankly, yes because of the climate of hate in Europe but I didn't expect it in Italy, I thought it was a tolerant country. 'I'm still shocked, the police questioned me for two hours after it happened and they are still investigating, things like this are happening all too frequently now. Later writing on X, Italy's deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini said: 'What happened in the service area at Lainate is very serious. 'A father and his six-year-old son on holiday in Italy, attacked and insulted purely because they are Jewish, and called murderers. 'I had hoped that Jew baiting had ended with the death of Nazi fascism, it is unacceptable that in 2025 in our country it is still happening.' A spokesperson for Milan police said: Officers were called to the service area on Sunday evening (27 July) and are investigating the incident. The video, which has been widely shared across social media platforms, has sparked a furious row 'CCTV from the scene has been obtained and is being examined, and also cameras in the car parking area are being looked at as some suspects went in that direction. 'We will be looking to see if any of those caught on film can be identified.' A TikToker has been shot dead while livestreaming to her followers. Keyla Andreina Gonzalez Mercado was allegedly blasted in the head by her friends partner while they drank alcohol together. The victim appeared to tease the suspect, named Manuel Andres Alava Lazaro, before he allegedly pulled the trigger. In the livestreamed footage, Keyla told him: 'Shoot me twice, I beg you, but later, let me get drunk.' The 28-year-old added: 'Youll hit me in the head twice, youll kill me in one go, I don't want to suffer, two in the head.' Her friend was heard saying 'no, no' in the background. Keyla appeared to shout the suspects name before he allegedly fired twice. Keylas friend reportedly stopped the livestream and went to her familys house to inform them of the shooting. TikToker Keyla Andreina Gonzalez Mercado was allegedly blasted in the head by her friend's partner while they drank alcohol together The victim appeared to tease the suspect, named Manuel Andres Alava Lazaro, before he allegedly pulled the trigger The suspect, who according to reports, has four prior convictions for robbery, fled the scene on his motorbike and still remains at large The suspect fled the scene on his motorbike and still remains at large, as reported by NeedToKnow. According to reports, he has four prior convictions for robbery. The alleged murder took place at the victims home in Guayaquil, Ecuador, on Saturday 26 July. One family member said Keyla was known as a joker, and that was why she was apparently teasing him to shoot her. They added: 'We only knew him by sight; we never spoke with him. 'People who know him told us he has a teardrop tattoo on his face and a rifle on his neck.' Those types of tattoos are typically associated with gang and prison culture. Keyla was the youngest of three sisters and liked to be called 'Chubby', according to her Facebook profile, where she also described her relationship status as 'complicated'. One family member said Keyla was known as a joker, and that was why she was apparently teasing him to shoot her The alleged murder took place at the victims home in Guayaquil, Ecuador, on Saturday 26 July Keyla was the youngest of three sisters and liked to be called 'Chubby', according to her Facebook profile Keyla appeared to shout the suspects name before he allegedly fired twice In her last TikTok post, the digital creator said: 'My goal is clear: to continue being a good woman, to walk hand in hand with God, to be a simple and humble woman without harming anyone.' She also described herself as a woman with a 'beautiful soul, a strong character, a mischievous look, a pure heart, and an unforgettable smile'. The investigation into her alleged murder is ongoing. On 13 May this year, beauty influencer Valeria Marquez, 23, was shot dead during a live broadcast for her 105,000 TikTok fans. Reports said two people arrived outside her salon in Zapopan, Mexico, pretending to be deliverymen. The suspected shooter told her he had an 'expensive gift' for her before opening fire. Her online audience was left stunned by the live events, with many doubting it was real. Valeria was killed on the spot, and her body was taken to a nearby morgue to be identified by family members. An investigation into her death is still ongoing. A Polish priest is alleged to have slashed a homeless man in the head with an axe before setting him on fire while he was still alive and leaving him to die on the side of the road. The priest, only identified as Miroslaw M. in line with Polish privacy rules, is believed to have clashed with victim Anatol Cz. while driving near Grojec late on Thursday before attacking him and fleeing the scene. Aneta Gozdz, a spokesperson for the Radom District Prosecutor's Office, said the priest, 60, struck the victim with an axe 'several times', doused him in flammable liquid and set him on fire before driving away. A cyclist found the victim, 68, still alive and engulfed in flames before calling for help, Gozdz said in the most recent statement, published on Saturday. Four fire brigade teams, police and an ambulance were mobilised to help save the man, Polish channel TVP 3 reported. Despite their efforts, the victim died. Officers received a report of a man on fire in the village of Lasopole in the Chynow commune south of Warsaw on Thursday at around 10pm, arriving to discover the body. 'An autopsy showed that the victim suffered burns covering 80 per cent of his body and head injuries caused by a sharp-edged heavy object,' Gozdz said, adding: 'The victim died as a result of burns and head injuries.' The priest was arrested on Friday and subsequently charged with 'murder with particular cruelty'. He is being detained ahead of a trial and faces 15 years to life behind bars. FILE PHOTO. Polish police arrived in Lasopole on Thursday to find the victim covered in burns and having suffered head injuries caused by a sharp-edged heavy object, prosecutors said Officers from the District Police Headquarters in Grojec and the Provincial Police Headquarters in Radom carried out a search and an examination of the rectory premises before the victim's vehicle was secured for further examination. The priest admitted to the crime and discussed his relationship to the victim and his motives, according to the prosecutor. When questioned, he did not deny that he and his friend of 20 years had traveled in their car to Lasopole, where they discussed the victim's accommodation and its location. 'The victim demanded the provision of this accommodation,' Gozdz said. 'The two men were bound by a donation agreement, under which Mirosaw M. committed to providing lifetime assistance and care for the victim.' The argument was said to concern 'the choice of a place for the homeless man to live', the Polska Agencja Prasowa news agency reported. The District Court in Grojec on Saturday ordered the pretrial detention of the man for three months on suspicion of murder. Warsaw Archbishop Adrian Galbas on Saturday requested the Holy See to dismiss the priest from the priesthood, the highest penalty in canon law for a cleric. In a statement to the archdiocese on Friday, Galbas asked for Catholics to pray for the victim and his loved ones. Your browser does not support iframes. The archbishop said he was 'devastated' by the crime and pledged to cooperate with investigators. He asked for forgiveness for this 'horrible crime' in a statement read during Sunday Mass in his archdiocese, adding: 'As Bishop of the Church of Warsaw, I feel morally responsible for what is happening in this church, both good and bad.' 'I am devastated and shocked by the news that one of my priests brutally murdered a poor and homeless person. 'I have no words of comfort for you today, much less an explanation or justification.' The Vatican did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The moment two children were killed when a barge slammed into their sailboat as they enjoyed a youth summer camp in Florida has been caught in disturbing video. Surveillance footage shows a large vessel strike a small yellow yacht which was carrying five children and a woman close to Miami Beach around 11am on Monday. The US Coast Guard said two girls aged seven and 13 died from their injuries, while two more girls aged eight and 11 were taken to the hospital in critical conditions. A 12-year-old girl and a 19-year-old woman on board survived. The names of those involved or the cause of the collision have not been disclosed. The young girls on the yacht were taking part in a Miami Youth Sailing Foundation summer camp, which is run by the Miami Yacht Club. Miami Yacht Club confirmed 'an incident occurred in the water' near Hibiscus Island in Biscayne Bay. The Daily Mail has contacted the club for more information. The barge was seen carrying a crane and it remained stationery in the water after the deadly collision. It's unclear which company owns it or who was driving. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed that all six people on board were recovered from the water and transported to a local hospital. The moment two children were killed when a barge slammed into their sailboat as they enjoyed a youth summer camp in Florida has been caught in a disturbing video. (Pictured: the moments before the barge ploughed into the tiny yacht close to Miami Beach around 11am on Monday) The US Coast Guard said two girls aged seven and 13 died from their injuries, while two more girls aged eight and 11 were taken to the hospital in critical conditions 'Tragically, two of the victims have succumbed to their injuries,' the commission said in a statement. 'We extend our deepest sympathies to the families affected by this heartbreaking loss. Our thoughts remain with them during this profoundly difficult time.' The department is investigating the incident along with the US Coast Guard. 'Our hearts are with the families of those lost and all who have been affected by this tragedy,' said Capt. Frank Florio, Commander of Coast Guard Sector Miami. 'Incidents like this leave a lasting impact on our maritime community and reinforce the importance of learning from every loss. 'The Coast Guard will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the causal factors and identify steps to help prevent similar tragedies in the future. 'We remain steadfast in our commitment to accountability, improvement, and the shared responsibility of ensuring safety at sea.' The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed that all six people on board were recovered from the water and transported to a local hospital Miami Beach Police Department were also initially sent to investigate the horrific crash. 'MBPD is currently managing a multi-agency critical incident involving a capsized vessel and multiple victims between Monument Island and Hibiscus Island,' the department said at the time. 'All victims have been accounted for.' No arrests have yet been made. The investigation is ongoing. Hard-right political activist Tommy Robinson has fled Britain after an investigation was launched into an alleged assault on a man at St Pancras station, police have confirmed. Detectives have launched a manhunt for the 42-year-old, from Luton, Bedfordshire, after he boarded a flight out of the country this morning. His flight out of Britain comes just hours after footage circulated online showing him pacing back and forth beside the unresponsive man lying face-down on the station concourse. Paramedics rushed to St Pancras, in central London, at around 8.40pm last night and the alleged victim - whose head appeared to be covered in the video - was taken to a major trauma centre with 'serious injuries'. In footage shared widely online, Robinson - whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon - appeared to be walking in the background as security were called to help the unconscious man. As stunned bystanders watched on, one Good Samaritan could be heard urgently shouting: 'Can we get some help over here!' But Robinson, visibly agitated, threw his arms in the air before turning and walking away down a staircase, repeatedly protesting his innocence. 'He f***ing came at me, bruv,' he yelled. 'He come at me bruv, you saw that.' The English Defence League founder had earlier posted footage of himself handing out flyers inside the station for an upcoming 'free speech' protest on September 13. Robinson remained active on social media while abroad today, responding to a post about him leaving the country with a picture of a dog wearing sunglasses. He also reposted a tweet which claimed he acted in self-defence. Tommy Robinson walks past a man who appears to have been knocked unconscious at St Pancras yesterday evening Startling footage circulating online shows the former EDL leader - whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon - pacing back and forth beside an unresponsive man Robinson posted a video to his X account at 4.09pm on Monday, claiming he was in London preparing for what he called 'the biggest free speech event the world has ever seen' In another video, posted at 5.09pm on Monday - hours before the scuffle - Robinson had a cut on his forehead. He said he had a 'fight with a door' Police at the scene where a man was found lying unconscious inside St Pancras station last night A curtain was put up around the scene as forensic officers investigated the incident 'It's never good or acceptable to physically assault someone over their political views, the tweet said. 'But lets looks at the context. 'Tommy Robinson has been politically active and a well known figure for years. There's countless video's of people debating him, threatening him etc. 'Shout and scream at him all you want, disagree with his views, debate him, argue with him... He's not gonna punch or attack you. I've argued with him loads over the years and... guess what... never been attacked by him! 'But there has to be a limit point and a boundary that's in place, and that applies to anyone. We should all be safe in our personal space. 'If you cross a line and attack someone physically, or threaten to attack them physically, then you can't expect any response other than a strong one. 'A pre-emptive strike is totally legal. To me it looks pretty clear. Tommy Robinson - controversial or not - was going about his business. Someone tried to attack him, and they came off worse. 'I hope they're ok and make a full recovery, but if you start a physical fight with someone - especially someone who won't hesitate to protect themselves - you have to be willing to lose.' A second tweet he reposted said: 'If you approach someone with hostility, a man that receives death threats daily, expect to get a clip round the ear hole.' A spokesman for British Transport Police (BTP) told the Daily Mail today: 'Following a report of an assault at St Pancras station last night (July 28), officers have confirmed that the suspect, a 42-year-old man from Bedfordshire, boarded a flight out of the country in the early hours of this morning. 'Detectives are continuing to work closely to progress the investigation and bring him into custody for questioning.' Last year, the Daily Mail revealed how Robinson was stoking far-right race riots across Britain from a sun lounger at a five-star hotel in Cyprus. He posted a constant stream of inflammatory social media posts from Ayia Napa while there was an arrest warrant was issued against him. He claimed he was on a family holiday and had not gone on the run. Robinson has been active on his X account today, reposting a tweet which claimed he acted in self-defence A protest organised under the name 'Stop the Isolation' or 'Unite the Kingdom', in support of Robinson started outside Waterloo station A supporter of Tommy Robinson wears a flag picturing him on his back Robinson after his release from Woodhill prison in Milton Keynes in May A London Ambulance Service spokesman said of last night's incident: 'We were called at 8.40pm on Monday July 28 to reports of an assault at St Pancras International Rail Station, NW1. 'We sent an ambulance crew to the scene and treated a man before taking him to a major trauma centre.' In videos posted to his X account earlier in the day, Robinson had a cut on his forehead which he claimed was from a 'fight with a door'. He said he was in London preparing for what he called 'the biggest free speech event the world has ever seen'. In one clip, Robinson said: 'Today we have walked the route of our event on September 13, where we will be meeting at Waterloo Station.' He added: 'Make your plans. We are having a festival of fun, of British identity, of celebration of every single bit of it.' Despite his history of clashes with the law, Robinson claimed organisers had been 'working with the police' and described their approach as 'very cooperative', insisting: 'We have a good relationship with them, we want fun, they are not our enemy.' Robinson has become a lightning rod for controversy in recent years, often leading far-Right rallies and protests across the UK. He was unable to attend his previous high-profile protest, 'Unite the Kingdom', last October after being remanded in custody. Union flag-waving crowds gathered in Whitehall at the time, chanting 'Oh Tommy Tommy' and 'We want Starmer out' while demanding Robinson's release. Many demonstrators wore 'I am Peter Lynch' badges - a nod to the 61-year-old who died in prison after shouting abuse at riot police outside a hotel housing asylum seekers. Others waved flags reading: 'RIP Peter Lynch. Political prisoner.' Videos of Robinson were played out to the crowd, in which he railed against so-called two-tier policing and Ulez charges, as plumes of cannabis smoke drifted through the air. In October, Robinson was sentenced to 18 months in prison after breaching a High Court injunction from 2021 that barred him from repeating false claims about a Syrian refugee. He admitted ten breaches of the order. But he was released from prison in May after seven months as his sentence was reduced by the High Court. A spokesman for BTP previously said: 'British Transport Police were called to St Pancras station just after 8.40pm yesterday (28 July) following reports of an assault. 'Officers attended and a man was taken to hospital with serious injuries, which are not thought to be life threatening. 'Overnight the investigation has been ongoing and officers have been making arrest enquiries.' The British Transport Police is urging witnesses or anyone with footage of the incident to text 61016 quoting reference 655 of 28 July. A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after two were killed and two more seriously injured at a London business. The Metropolitan Police announced the charges faced by a 31-year-old man from Hackney, east London, who has been detained since Monday's attacks in Southwark. He remains in hospital with injuries not thought to be life-threatening, Scotland Yard said today. Emergency services were called to Long Lane in Bermondsey at about 1pm on Monday following reports of multiple stabbings inside a commercial address. A 58-year-old man died at the scene and a 27-year-old man later died in hospital. Two other men, both in their 30s, were also taken to hospital. The Metropolitan Police said the attack was not being treated as terror-related. The stabbings are understood to have taken place near consultancy firm Prospira Global and housing provider Trademark Homes. Officers were called to reports that multiple people had been assaulted at a business premises The stabbings are understood to have taken place near consultancy firm Prospira Global and housing provider Trademark Homes Floral tributes have been left at the scene in Bermondsey, south London A resident, who asked not to be named, told the PA news agency: 'It's terrifying. 'I walk past there all the time - it makes you feel really uneasy. You just don't expect something like this to happen on a normal weekday.' Detectives from the Metropolitan Police's Specialist Crime Command are leading the investigation. Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Bond, who leads policing for the area, said today: 'Our thoughts are first and foremost with the family and friends of the victims of this tragic incident. 'Our investigation continues at pace and we are working hard to understand the full circumstances. 'I understand there may be concern in the local community and there will be an increased police presence in the area over the coming days. I would also encourage anyone who may be worried to speak to an officer.' A crime scene remains in place and officers continue to investigate the circumstances. Officers were called around 1pm on Monday and set up a large police cordon well into the night Police tape was seen near to where the stabbings occurred on Long Lane, Southwark Police officers have been seen continuing to enter and inspect the premises today Officers remained today at the scene in the London borough of Southwark Police said they were aware of speculation the arrested man was staying at a nearby hotel but that this was not the case. Natasha Ennin, Southwark Council's cabinet member for community safety and neighbourhoods, said she was 'horrified and deeply saddened' by the deaths in the borough. She added that her 'heartfelt condolences' went out to the families and friends of those involved and called on anyone with information to report it. Anyone with information can call 101, report online or contact X@METCC and quote CAD3499/28. Two best friends celebrating a birthday at a Maine campground were killed after their trailer exploded when one of them lit a candle. Alesia Ventura-Large, 58, and Nancy Pilsch, 57, both from Massachusetts, were found severely burned outside their camper at the Powder Horn Campground in Old Orchard Beach on Saturday, according to the Maine State Fire Marshal. Despite being rushed to a trauma center both women succumbed to their injuries the following day. 'These people were wonderful human beings from all accounts,' State Fire Marshal Chief Shawn Esler told WGME 13 News. Over the weekend Ventura-Large had invited Pilsch on a short camping trip to celebrate her upcoming birthday. But around 12.30pm on Saturday emergency crews rushed to the campground after reports of a fiery explosion. Upon arrival first responders discovered both women outside the camper suffering from severe injuries and immediately rushed them to the Level 1 trauma center at Maine Medical Center in Portland. As the women fought for their lives investigators from the Maine Fuel Board and the State Fire Marshal's Office scoured the scene. Alesia Ventura-Large (right), 58, and Nancy Pilsch (left), 57, both from Massachusetts, were killed when their trailer exploded during a weekend camping trip in Maine The two friends, who were camping ahead of Pilsch's 58th birthday, were found severely burned outside their camper (pictured) at the Powder Horn Campground in Old Orchard Beach on Saturday Despite being rushed to a trauma center both women succumbed to their injuries a day later Initial findings suggested that the women were inside the trailer at the moment of the explosion. According to the state fire marshal, investigators discovered the presence of liquid petroleum that had seeped into and beneath the camper. Investigators believe the deadly explosion was then set off by the simple act of lighting a candle. 'We learned that when they arrived to the camper there was a rotten egg smell,' Esler told the outlet. 'They opened up some windows and doors and subsequently lit a candle to help with the smell that was in the trailer,' he added. 'This is what we believe is the ignition source.' While the camper did have a smoke detector, it was missing an explosive gas detector - a critical safety feature typically standard in most trailers, as reported by WGME. 'It's supposed to go off if it senses that smell that you're talking about,' James Viet, a seasoned camper with an explosive gas detector in his RV, told the outlet. Fire investigators and Maine Fuel Board officials returned to the scene on Monday, spending two hours combing through the wreckage in an effort to pinpoint the exact cause of the deadly blast. According to the state fire marshal, investigators discovered the presence of liquid petroleum that had seeped into and beneath the camper (pictured: Ventura-Large) Investigators discovered that one of the women lit a candle after smelling a 'rotten egg smell' in the camper, which is believed to have triggered the explosion (pictured) Investigators are exploring two possible causes for the gas leak - one of which is a potential system failure (pictured: Pilsch) Investigators are exploring two possible causes for the gas leak - one of which is a potential system failure. Investigators also discovered that one of the oven knobs inside the trailer was in the 'on' position, though it remains unclear whether this contributed to the tragedy. 'That could have potentially leaked propane into the small destination camper,' Esler told the outlet. John Large, Ventura-Large's husband, described his wife as 'absolutely incredible and amazing,' according to WOWT 6 News. 'Alesia was a wonderful woman. She was a healer...Very sensitive,' he added to WGME News. 'She was the light of a lot of people's lives. And there is one, Alesia Ventura-Large.' Steve Bercovitz, Pilschs neighbor, told WOWT the loss has hit the community hard - especially coming just days before her 58th birthday. 'We've known her for 20-something years, so it's a tough loss,' he told the outlet. The investigation remains ongoing, with officials planning further analysis of the campers gas systems. In light of the tragedy, the Fire Marshals Office is reminding the public of the importance of installing gas detectors in homes, campers and any spaces where propane or natural gas is used. 'It is a tragedy and our heart goes out to the family from the fire department here. Just our prayers and sympathy to such a tragedy,' Old Orchard Beach Fire Chief John Gilboy told the outlet. A Portland Antifa member who claimed to be a gentle Quaker has been arrested on suspicion of injuring an ICE officer with a rock. Robert Jacob Hoopes, 24, was arrested in the home he shares with his girlfriend and roommate after allegedly attacking an ICE officer and leaving him covered in blood. He is accused of attempting to breach Portland's ICE office on Macadam Avenue on June 14. Dressed in dark clothing and a gas mask with pink respirators, Hoopes allegedly threw several rocks into the building and helped barricade the front doors from the outside to prevent employees from leaving the building. While an ICE officer was attempting to clear the obstruction, Hoopes allegedly threw a rock into the opening, hitting the man in the face and causing 'significant injury,' the affidavit, viewed by Daily Mail, said. A photo of the agent included in the affidavit showed a large smear of blood on his cheeks and chin after he sustained a two-inch gash above his right eyebrow. The would 'bled profusely, to the point of obstructing his vision,' the affidavit said. After allegedly wounding the officer, Hoopes is said to have led a charge with two others, using a stop sign as a 'makeshift battering ram' to strike the front doors four times. The attack caused nearly $8,000 worth of damage, according to the filings. Hoopes was identified by federal investigators after The Oregonian published an article showing a photo of him with his gas mask on top of his head and his tattoos visible. Robert Jacob Hoopes, 24, (pictured) was arrested in the home he shares with his girlfriend and roommate after allegedly leaving an ICE officer bloody while attempting to breach Portland's ICE office on Macadam Avenue on June 14 Dressed in dark clothing and a gas mask with pink respirators, Hoopes allegedly threw several rocks into the building and helped barricade the front doors from the outside to prevent employees from leaving The FBI used facial recognition software to analyze the image, which found 30 possible comparison photos, including one from Reed College Smugmug photo-sharing page called 'Canyon Day April '23.' Hoopes, who has a degree in computer science, had a matching tattoo of vines up his forearm as seen in the Oregonian's photo. After getting access to his alumni information and finding an address and driver's license, officers then surveilled his address on July 10. Around 9am on July 25, Hoopes and his girlfriend, Fable Sorenson, looked out their bedroom window before a 'flood of armed officers race[d] into our driveway and charge at our house with assault rifles,' she wrote on Facebook. 'Because everyone in my household is a safe, caring person, I was convinced they had the wrong house and couldn't understand what could warrant this kind of threat to our lives,' Sorenson wrote. 'Jacob attempted to ask through the window if the police had a warrant and they responded by aiming laser reactive targets on his body, threatening his life.' Sorenson said she instructed her boyfriend to open the door as she 'feared we would die if we continued to ask for a warrant.' She claimed that she, Hoopes, and their roommate were 'screamed at, handcuffed, and put on the street in our underwear.' While an ICE officer (pictured) was attempting to clear the obstruction Hoopes allegedly threw a rock into the opening, hitting the man in the face and causing 'significant injury'. The officer had a two-inch gap above his right eyebrow After allegedly wounding the officer Hoopes is accused of leading a charge with two others, using a stop sign as a 'makeshift battering ram' to strike the front doors four times Hoopes was identified by federal investigators after The Oregonian published an article showing a photo of him with his gas mask on top of his head and his tattoos visible Hoopes was arrested and charged with aggravated assault of a federal officer and damaging government property. The Reed College graduate pleaded not guilty. His girlfriend defended her boyfriend's actions. She wrote on Facebook that he was a 'pacifist Quaker, who is the most compassionate, loving, gentle person I have ever met.' 'He cares deeply about people, his community, and those who are vulnerable to injustice,' she said. She accused the federal government of being 'insane and corrupt' for arresting her boyfriend and not giving a 'f**k about the terror they were causing us.' 'It's so important to remember that this is not just about me or Jacob, but instead the larger evil of fascism, which seeks to destroy vulnerable communities,' she continued. 'ICE is not welcome in Portland. Abolish ICE.' Around 100 Quakers showed up for Hoopes outside the courthouse on Monday before his hearing, according to Julie Peyton, who is also a Quaker and posed about it on Bluesky. Hoope's girlfriend described him as a 'pacifist Quaker, who is the most compassionate, loving, gentle person I have ever met' Around 100 Quakers showed up for Hoopes (pictured) outside the courthouse on Monday before his hearing, according to Julie Peyton, who is also a Quaker Hoopes, who works as a waiter, is not the 'simple Quaker pacifist' that he would 'like you to believe he is,' Assistant US Attorney Gary Sussman said at the hearing. 'He was front and center. He was leading the charge. He hurt a federal officer,' he said. Sussman requested that the supposed pacifist be held without bail, but Matthew McHenry, Hoopes' attorney, said he had no criminal history and had strong ties to Portland. US Magistrate Judge Youlee Yim You agreed to release Hoopes pending trial after asking those in the gallery who knew him. Hoopes was ordered not to have any contact with an ICE officer or be near the building. He will also have to undergo a mental health evaluation and take the medications prescribed to him, The Oregonian reported. He also has to wear GPS monitoring. Daily Mail has reached out Sorenson and Hoopes' attorney for comment. Several protests have broken out in front of Portland's ICE facility since Donald Trump retook the White House in January and began implementing his immigration policies. Hoopes is one of 23 people who have been arrested since June in connection with ICE protests, according to the local outlet. He faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. Attorney General Pam Bondi is reprimanding an anti-Trump judge overseeing the administration's mass deportation case after recent inflammatory comments about the president sparked shockwaves. Trump has been vocal about slamming judicial decisions unfavorable to his administration - including District Judge James Boasberg's move to block deportation flights on March 15. The president responded to the halt by calling for Boasberg's impeachment and claiming he was trying to usurp the presidency. He wrote on Truth Social that Boasberg, who was appointed by Republican President George W. Bush, is a 'Radical Left Lunatic Judge' and 'troublemaker.' Around the time of Trump's public criticism, Judge Boasberg claimed at a private conference that the administration would cause a 'constitutional crisis' by going against federal judges. Now, Trump's Justice Department is taking action against the judge who is still overseeing one of the most consequential cases to the administration. Bondi filed a misconduct complaint against Boasberg, stating that his remarks 'undermined' judicial integrity. During the March Judicial Conference, Boasberg reportedly raised concerns to colleagues that Trump would cause a 'constitutional crisis' by disregarding federal court rulings. Washignton, D.C. District Court Chief Judge James Boasberg (pictured) faces misconduct complaint from Justice Department for 'improper public comments' about President Donald Trump Attorney General Pam Bondi directed the DOJ to filed the complaint against Judge Boasberg for 'undermining the integrity of the judiciary' A memo, reported earlier this month, summarized the working breakfast and noted that Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, who presides over the conference, defended Trump against Boasberg's concerns. Boasberg's comments came right before he ordered the Trump administration halt removals of illegal immigrants to El Salvador as courts considered the legality of his mass deportation operations. 'Today at my direction, [the Justice Department] filed a misconduct complaint against U.S. District Court Chief Judge James Boasberg for making improper public comments about President Trump and his Administration,' Bondi wrote on Monday in a post to X. 'These comments have undermined the integrity of the judiciary, and we will not stand for that,' she added. The week of March 11 this year, members of the Judicial Conference met in the nation's capital for the first of its two regular meetings. This group is the national policymaking body for federal courts, the website explains. A memo from the gathering notes: 'District of the District of Columbia Chief Judge James Boasberg next raised his colleagues' concerns that the Administration would disregard rulings of federal courts leading to a constitutional crisis.' 'Chief Justice Roberts expressed hope that would not happen and in turn no constitutional crisis would materialize,' according to the memo. It also said Roberts made clear 'his interactions with the President have been civil and respectful, such as the President thanking him at the state of the union address for administering the oath.' Just 12 days after the Federalist reported on the memo, AG Bondi took action against Judge Boasberg. Revelations of the comments make clear an anti-Trump bias that Judge Boasberg holds. Trump has been critical of Boasberg and claimed he is a 'highly conflicted' judge. The president says that the judge is 'disgraceful' and suffering from 'massive Trump Derangement Syndrome.' Boasberg's comments about President Donald Trump came during a Judicial Conference in March just days later the judge ordered the administration halt deportation flights after a challenge was filed against Trump's deportation of illegal immigrants without due process The pause came after the ACLU filed a lawsuit on behalf of five illegal Venezuela immigrants who Trump was deporting without due process. The administration was using the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The wartime law is usually used during 'declared' conflicts to allow deportations without court proceedings. Boasberg argued it may not apply to a criminal gang since they are not a sanctioned government entity. An illegal migrant from Jamaica hired this spring by a police department in Maine was arrested last week after trying to buy a gun, authorities said. Jon Luke Evans, who works as a reserve police officer in Old Orchard Beach, was taken into custody by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials on July 25, the agency said. Evans, who entered the US via Miami in September 2023 on a weeklong visa, never returned home and wound up becoming a cop in the popular resort town, according to ICE. His illegal status was uncovered after the reserve officer attempted to purchase a firearm that he told officials he needed for his job. 'The fact that a police department would hire an illegal alien and unlawfully issue him a firearm while on duty would be comical if it weren't so tragic,' said ICE Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. 'We have a police department that was knowingly breaking the very law they are charged with enforcing in order to employ an illegal alien.' The Old Orchard Beach Police Department confirmed Evans' employment, adding that he was a member of the reserves and was hired in May. Reserve police officers are part-time employees hired on a seasonal basis to assist the department with tasks including beach patrol and community policing, the department said. Jon Luke Evans, who works as a reserve police officer in Old Orchard Beach, was taken into custody by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials on July 25 Evans was employed with the Old Orchard Beach Police Department in Maine as a reserve officer. Reserve officers assist with beach patrol and community policing (Pictured: Old Orchard Beach) Reserve officers do carry firearms but are not allowed to bring them home and must return them to the department after their shifts, according to Old Orchard Police Chief Elise Chard. Chard clarified that reserve officers aren't asked to purchase firearms themselves and aren't allowed to carry other firearms for their duties. As part of the police department's hiring process, Evans was required to submit an I-9 Form to the Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify Program, the department said. An I-9 Form is a required document to work in the US. Both citizens and undocumented migrants are required to submit the form before employment. Chief Chard confirmed that Evans submitted his I-9 Form to Homeland Security and submitted photo identification for his employment with the department. 'The form was submitted and approved by DHS on May 12, 2025,' the police chief said. 'Evans would not have been permitted to begin work as a reserve officer until and unless Homeland Security verified his status.' The department added that Evans had an approved Employment Authorization Document that wasn't set to expire until March 2030. ICE and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were alerted to Evans' immigration status when he attempted to purchase a firearm ICE blamed the police department for allowing an undocumented migrant to work as a reserve officer, calling his employment 'tragic' The Old Orchard Police Department said Homeland Security had approved Evans' employment verification forms, and Maine allows non-citizens to work in law enforcement pending legal work authorization (Pictured: The boardwalk in Old Orchard Beach) Maine allows non-citizens to work in law enforcement as long as they obtain legal work authorization. Chief Chard said that Evans had passed all physical and medical checks, a background check, and was approved by DHS before starting as a reserve officer. After his detainment by ICE, Evans's probationary status with the department was put under review. The department said it wasn't notified of his arrest and found out about Evans' detainment from a public news release. 'In hiring Evans, our department and our community relied on the Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program to ensure we were meeting our obligations, and we are distressed and deeply concerned about this apparent error on the part of the federal government,' the department said in a statement. 'We intend to investigate this matter to determine what other steps we should take moving forward to ensure our continued compliance with all applicable laws.' Assistant DHS Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement that E-Very was a proven tool that delivered accurate results. 'Usage of E-Verify does not absolve employers of their legal duty to verify documentation authenticity, and all employers should take necessary steps to effectively verify legal employment status. 'The Old Orchard Beach Police Departments reckless reliance on E-Verify to justify arming an illegal alien, Jon Luke Evans violates federal law, and does not absolve them of their failure to conduct basic background checks to verify legal status. 'No illegal alien should ever be provided a firearm or serve in law enforcement, not only is it the law, its also basic common sense.' New satellite images show masses of starving Palestinians rushing to American-backed aid distribution point to pick up food and water. Photos taken by PlanetLabs shows innumerable Gazans gathering just over a kilometre away from a Gaza Humanitarian Foundation aid site in Khan Younis, Gaza's second city. They can be seen crowding around roughly 15 aid trucks that have been let into Gaza by Israel, as the Strip is entering a 'worst-case scenario' famine the world's main nutrition monitor warned. Rival aid efforts have sparked a war of words, pitting Israel, the US and the GHF against the UN, international aid groups and dozens of governments from around the world. Some have accused Israel of deliberately starving Gaza's civilian population. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification Initiative (IPC) said that air drops over Gaza will not be enough to avert the 'humanitarian catastrophe.' 'The worst-case scenario of famine is now unfolding in the Gaza Strip,' said the UN-backed group of organisations, used as a monitor to gauge malnutrition. 'Immediate, unimpeded' humanitarian access into Gaza was the only way to stop rapidly rising 'starvation and death', it said. The IPC issued their warning 'alert' after days of aid groups sounding the alarm over hunger-related deaths in Gaza. Israel imposed a total blockade on Gaza on March 2 after ceasefire talks broke down. In late May, it began allowing a small trickle of aid to resume, amid warnings of a wave of starvation. Slide me Photos taken from space by PlanetLabs shows innumerable Gazans gathering just over a kilometre away from a Gaza Humanitarian Foundation aid site in Khan Younis, Gaza's second city Gazans gather to collect aid from a distribution site in Rafah in video shared early Tuesday The IPC said its latest data shows that 'famine thresholds' have been reached in 'most of the Gaza Strip'. Hunger-related deaths of young children, it said, were rising fast. 'Over 20,000 children have been admitted for treatment for acute malnutrition between April and mid-July, with more than 3,000 severely malnourished.' Children under the age of five were dying of hunger, 'with at least 16 reported deaths since 17 July', IPC said. 'Mounting evidence shows that widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths,' it said Tuesday. Israel and the US accuse Hamas of stealing aid - which they deny - and the UN of failing to prevent it. The US says it has not seen evidence of mass aid diversion in Gaza by Hamas. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there is no policy of starvation in Gaza, and no starvation per se. Donald Trump diverged from Mr Netanyahu's comments on Monday, insisting there is 'real starvation' in Gaza. Asked if he agreed with Mr Netanyahu that it was a 'bold-faced lie' to say Israel was fuelling hunger, he said: 'I don't know...those children look very hungry...that's real starvation stuff.' On Monday night, Mr Netanyahu's office said that Israel would work with aid groups, the US and Europe to ensure 'large amounts of humanitarian aid flows' into Gaza. Slide me The IPC said its latest data shows that 'famine thresholds' have been reached in 'most of the Gaza Strip' Two Israeli APCs manoeuvre on the Israeli side of the border with Gaza, July 28, 2025 A lone child among the crowds searches through a box of GHF-distributed aid in Gaza Mr Fox shared footage of Gazans rushing to collect aid in Rafah Gazans gather to collect aid from a distribution site in Rafah in video shared early Tuesday Israel said that 120 aid trucks had entered Gaza from crossings on Sunday, and that Jordan and the UAE had airdropped 28 packages of food. The GHF said it had delivered more than 95 million meals directly to Palestinians in Gaza in total. But on Monday, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza said a further 14 people had died from malnutrition over the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 147 since the start of the war, according to the ministry. It added today that more than 60,000 people have been killed since the war started. Israel has said that Hamas is using a so-called 'famine narrative' for leverage in ceasefire talks, which broke down last week as the US and Israel left talks in Doha, suggesting a cynical 'lack of desire to reach a ceasefire' from Hamas. Hamas responded with incredulity and insisted it did want to continue negotiations. Hamas leader Khalil Al-Hayya then said on Monday there was 'no point in continuing negotiations' under current conditions. A source close to Hamas told CNN: 'After the Israeli side withdrew from the negotiations, Hamas is considering reversing the flexibility it had shown regarding the timeline for releasing the 10 living Israelis captives.' Until talks resume, Gaza's 2.1 million population remains in dire need of aid. A former British soldier in Gaza shared chaotic and unsettling scenes of civilians rushing to collect aid from a distribution site as essentials continued to trickle into the beleaguered Palestinian enclave. Andrew Fox, a former British Army airborne officer, shared a series of clips from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) site in Rafah, describing an 'influx of hungry Gazans coming to get their aid'. Children carry aid away from the distribution centre in video shared by Mr Andrew Fox Israeli soldiers drive on their armored personnel carrier back from inside the northern Gaza Strip into southern Israel, Tuesday, July 29, 2025 The video was shared on social media in the early hours of Tuesday morning, after Israel said on Sunday it would halt military operations for 10 hours a day in parts of the Gaza Strip and allow new aid corridors. Mr Fox's dispatch from Rafah offers a rare insight into the coordination of aid deliveries in the Gaza Strip. Journalists are pushing to be allowed in and out of the enclave and say reporting from the enclave is nearing 'extinction' with local reporters facing 'threat of starvation'. 'The flow of people just keeps coming,' Mr Fox said, reporting from the sidelines of the crowd in the first few minutes of opening. The initial influx was mostly young men, he said, who were ordered to dismount from motorbikes to avoid injuries. Within 20 minutes, he said, they were starting to see more women and children arrive to claim essentials held in reserve. After 45 minutes, the aid had mostly been depleted. Mr Fox said the team had used smoke and flashbang grenades to 'encourage the last of the male crowd out of the site' to allow the team to hand out aid held in reserve for women and children. Mr Fox described GHF cardboard boxes, which he said were enough to buy one kilogram (2.2lbs) of flour in the barter economy. Increasingly, he said, Palestinians were taking empty boxes and wooden pallets to be used as firewood, with Gaza facing blackouts. 'No live rounds at all have been fired,' he said. Women and young people could be seen leaving the site with aid, waving and gesturing towards the camera. The GHF, a US-backed private aid operation supported by Israel, has faced pressure in recent days after the UN reported that Israeli forces had killed more than 1,000 Palestinians seeking food aid, mostly near distribution points. Israel accused Hamas of instigating chaos near the aid sites. It said its troops had only fired warning shots, and that they do not deliberately shoot civilians. The GHF has accused Hamas of massive aid theft in defending its distribution model. Mr Fox's dispatch offers a rare insight into the coordination of aid deliveries in the Gaza Strip Smoke rises from Gaza after an explosion, as seen from the Israeli side of the border, July 28 Palestinians search through the rubble of their homes for any belongings after Israeli airstrikes hit homes in a new camp northwest of Nuseirat in Gaza Strip on July 29 A Palestinian youth carries a bag as he walks in the Mawasi area of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on July 28 An internal US government analysis found no evidence of systematic theft of US-funded humanitarian supplies by Hamas, challenging the rationale Israel and the US give for backing the aid operation, as reported by Reuters last week. Mr Fox described the challenging environment facing locals as they waited to start distributing aid in Rafah. 'The terrain here is as destroyed as has been reported in the media. It's no lie. The place is wrecked. These people do need food. They do need feeding. They need the aid that these teams are bringing to them. 'This is really, really hot. There is water on site but people are still struggling for the very basics of life, and GHF are here to try and at least alleviate some of that suffering.' He wrote in a July 24 blog that while aid was entering Gaza, 'the grim truth is that supply is not the same as access'. 'Gaza's crisis is mainly a result of distribution collapse and governance issues, worsened by Hamas's tactics and the paralysis of traditional aid channels.' In testimonies shared with MailOnline, International Rescue Committee (IRC) staff inside Gaza described harrowing scenes. 'People are collapsing in the streets from emaciation... I saw a child digging through a pile of trash for food. He found nothing,' said IRC staffer Abdelraheem Hamad. 'The sound of children crying from hunger never stops. Every day, people knock on our doors asking for food. Not money just bread,' said staffer Rania Al Shrehi. The leading international authority on food crises said in a new alert Tuesday that the 'worst-case scenario of famine is currently playing out in the Gaza Strip', predicting 'widespread death' without immediate action. Donald Trump meets with Keir Starmer in Scotland on Monday Destroyed buildings lie in Gaza, as seen from the Israeli side of the border, July 28, An Israeli soldier works on a tank in a staging area on the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Tuesday, July 29 The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC, said Gaza has teetered on the brink of famine for two years, but recent developments have 'dramatically worsened' the situation, including 'increasingly stringent blockades' by Israel. The IPC is a global initiative that partners with 21 aid groups, international organizations, and UN agencies, and assesses the extent of hunger suffered by a population. The alert, still short of a formal famine declaration, follows an outcry over images of emaciated children in Gaza and reports of dozens of hunger-related deaths after nearly 22 months of war. While international pressure led Israel over the weekend to announce measures to deliver more aid, the United Nations and Palestinians on the ground say little has changed, and desperate crowds continue to overwhelm and unload delivery trucks before they can reach their destinations. 'Formal famine declarations always lag reality,' David Miliband, head of the International Rescue Committee aid group, said in a statement ahead of the IPC alert. 'By the time that famine was declared in Somalia in 2011, 250,000 people - half of them children under 5 - had already died of hunger. By the time famine is declared, it will already be too late,' he said. 'In the coming days, thousands of Gaza's children will either be rescued or allowed to die. That is the choice before us.' The conflict between Israel and Gaza continued as aid agencies scrambled to deliver essentials. A military transport aircraft drops humanitarian aid over Al-Zawayda, in the central Gaza Strip, on July 28 The sun sets over Gaza, ravaged by war, as seen from the Israeli side of the border, July 28 Gaza's civil defence said Tuesday that Israeli air strikes killed at least 30 Palestinians, including women and children, in the central Nuseirat district. Civil defence agency spokesman Mahmud Basal said the strikes were carried out overnight and into the morning and 'targeted a number of citizens' homes' in the Nuseirat refugee camp. The war in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas killed 1,200 people in southern Israel and took some 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. The Cincinnati police chief has slammed social media posts about the viral mass brawl that occurred in the city, saying that the outrage lacked 'context.' Police Chief Terri Theetge gave an update at a press conference on Monday after footage emerged showing a man and woman being attacked over the weekend in the downtown area of the Ohio city. Chief Theetge also took aim at the media for only showing 'one version' of what occurred - without giving any more context about the fight herself. She said: 'Social media and journalism and the role it plays in this incident, the posts that we have seen does not depict the entire incident. 'That is one version of what occurred. At times social media and mainstream media and their commentaries are a misrepresentation of the circumstances surrounding any given event. 'That causes us some difficulties in thoroughly investigating the activity and enforcing the law. Social media posts and your coverage of it distort the context of what actually happened, and that makes it more difficult.' Chief Theetge confirmed in her update that five people have since been charged, but their records remain sealed at this time. The female victim was identified by her first name, Holly, but the other victim has not yet been identified. Police are yet to provide details on what led up to the fight. Police Chief Terri Theetge hit out at the media and social media for distorting the truth behind the brawl - however, she refused to give any more context herself Five people have been charged in connection with the violent brawl that erupted in Cincinnati She added: 'I will say if individuals were down there and participated in this event, it would be in their best interest to turn themselves in.' According to Theetge, she believes that alcohol had played a 'significant part' in the brawl, while saying police only received one 911 call about it. 'Nobody called the police. Nobody got us there as quickly as we could get there. They waited until they saw it on social media. 'That is unacceptable to not call the police when you view this. Traffic was horrendous. People saw this, they were fighting in front of traffic', she added. Chief Theetge was unable to give an update on the victims' conditions, but Cincinnati FOP President Ken Sober said they suffered 'pretty serious injuries.' Former presidential candidate and now Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy had identified the woman in the clip as 'Holly.' He said on social media: 'I spoke to Holly earlier today (the woman tragically assaulted in Cincinnati this weekend). 'She's a single working mom who went to a friend's birthday party. It's unconscionable that there were no police present in that area of Cincinnati on a Friday night, or even an ambulance to take her to the hospital.' Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy identified the woman in the clip as 'Holly' In shocking footage of the fight, a man in a white t-shirt was shoved to the ground and beaten by two men as other members of the crowd jeered and joined in. The gang beat the man for nearly a minute as he lay in the middle of the street, seemingly stepping on his head multiple times. When the barrage of attacks temporarily stopped, he was seen attempting to stand - but immediately fell over in apparent disorientation. One attacker yelled out 'my man's drunk'. A woman in a black dress rushed to his aid, but was attacked by the crowd, suffering two blows to the face. The impact caused her to fall, with her head slamming onto the pavement. Blood spewed from her mouth. Vice President JD Vance waded in on the clip captured in his home state on Monday, saying anybody involved should have be thrown in prison. The gang beat the man for nearly a minute as he lay in the middle of the street He said: 'I don't know the full context, but the one part that I saw that was really gruesome is you had a grown man who sucker punched a middle-age woman. 'That person ought to go to jail for a very long time - and frankly, he's lucky there weren't some better people around because they would've handled it themselves. 'We have got to make great American cities safe again for families and children, the only way to destroy that street violence is to take the thugs who engage in that violence and throw their asses in prison.' Elon Musk also took to his social media to question what he suggested was a lack of response to the incident. 'Why zero stories?' the Tesla CEO asked Sunday, retweeting a post from the End Wokeness X account alleging that the attack wasn't being covered by news outlets. End Wokeness posted a tweet early Sunday afternoon claiming CNN, ABC, NBC, Fox News, The New York Times and The Washington Post, among others, had failed to cover the attack. By late Sunday evening the terrifying assault had been covered by several local and national media outlets, including Daily Mail and Fox News. Horrific animal cruelty footage shows a tour operator sending a helpless donkey over a cliff on a terrifying zipline ride. The brutal stunt was in the Dagestan region of southern Russia, aimed at attracting tourists. The tour operator named Ramazan posted the sickening footage captioned: 'The donkey flew faster than an eagle!' He then quickly deleted it as he was flooded with hostile comments. In 24 hours, the video received 5,000 furious posts. One said: 'This is not humour, this is sadism!' The strapped donkey was attached to the zipline as it was sent on a journey of terror down a mountain. People are heard laughing as the ass sped downwards. The brutal stunt was in the Dagestan region of southern Russia, aimed at attracting tourists People are heard laughing as the ass sped downwards on the zipline which is reportedly more than 100 metres long [328ft] The strapped donkey was attached to the zipline as it was sent on a journey of terror down a mountain Reports say the zipline drop was more than 100 metres long [328ft] and there are fears the donkey was hurt at the end of the ride - though this is not shown on the video. The ride is advertised as a 40 second drop. Animal rights activists were quoted on social media saying the donkey 'may have suffered joint and spinal injuries as it landed', but the tour guide insisted the animal was unharmed. His team insisted: 'The animal is healthy and wasnt injured! Worryingly, the donkey has not been seen since the ride from hell on the Matlas plateau in Dagestan's Khunzakhskiy district. One local media outlet jokingly reported: 'In Dagestan, theyve opened a new way of air-delivering donkeys. Even a donkey rode a zipline have you?' This report brought a deluge of hostile comments. 'This was completely unnecessary, why torture the poor animal for social media hype,' said one. The donkey has not been seen since the ride from hell on the Matlas plateau in Dagestan's Khunzakhskiy district There are fears the donkey was hurt at the end of the ride though this is not shown on the video Russian police were said to be carrying out a 'check' of the footage which was filmed one month ago but has only now emerged Another posted: 'They must be held accountable. This is animal abuse.' One more wrote: 'Heartless, brainless people! Theyve got to be punished.' Another demanded: 'I hope the unknown individuals who sent the donkey flying on a zipline will be identified by the police.' Russian police were said to be carrying out a 'check' of the footage which was filmed one month ago but has only now emerged. But there was no evidence of criminal action against the owner, although in theory this would be an offence under Russian law with a fine of up to 2,750. If the donkey was injured it could lead to a three year prison sentence. The case recalls a donkey sent parasailing from a beach in resort Anapa attached to a speedboat 15 years ago, an incident of animal cruelty which sent shockwaves around the world. This donkey Anapka was lifted 140ft above the Azov sea. The case recalls a donkey sent parasailing from a beach in resort Anapa attached to a speedboat 15 years ago If the donkey was injured in the stunt it could lead to a three year prison sentence There is no evidence of criminal action against the owner, although in theory this would be an offence under Russian law with a fine of up to 2,750 'I didn't do it to advertise anything - I just did it for fun,' said Vasily Gorobets, then 32, the man who had been entrusted with caring for the donkey for three months when the parasailing incident was filmed by shocked tourists. The donkey was giving beach rides to Russian children for 1 a go when it was sent skywards. 'There were 20 people fixing the donkey into the parachute. It was just for fun, and everyone was laughing,' said Gorobets, who claimed he could not understand what the fuss was about. The donkey was aged 17 and later was sent to recuperate in the Kremlin horse stables thanks to then president Dmitry Medvedev. However, the animal was so traumatised it died less than a year after its horrific ordeal. A journalist has been fired from her anchor job after claiming that she had been mistreated an exclusive restaurant in Mexico City, and harassing of one of its employees in a viral video. Claudia Mollinedo and three of her female friends gathered for Saturday dinner at upscale restaurant Bagatelle, but stayed well past the venue's official closing time of 1am. The former actress claimed that after running up a bill of 25,000 pesos around $1,330 the staff turned on the lights at 1:30 am and then began to clean the restaurant before telling them it was already time for them to leave. The upset group stood in front of Bagatelle while Mollinedo went on a full tirade. '[We are] outraged because here in this restaurant called Bagatelle in Polanco where we paid almost 25,000 pesos for the bill, they kicked us out, they left us outside,' Mollinedo said in the recording that she posted on her Instagram Stories. 'In the street, literally, 1:30 in the morning' one of her friends then said while cutting her off. Mollinedo then jumped in and said that they were told to leave 'because they had to close.' Her friends appeared bothered that the workers asked 'four ladies' to abandon the restaurant 'because they close at 1.' Mexican journalist Claudia Mollinedo was fired from her anchor job at Imagen Television on Monday, two days after she posted a viral video in which she ranted about being kicked out of Bagatelle in Mexico City and harassed one of their workers despite staying a half hour past closing time Pictured: Bagatelle's Mexico City location in the upscale neighborhood of Polanco Mollinedo explained that the workers brought out their brooms to start cleaning and slammed them for treating them like thugs and kicking them out. 'They turned on the lights, started sweeping, and still escorted us out. It was as if we were criminals, not having paid the bill, and a bill as expensive as the one we had to pay,' she said. 'We've eaten in much nicer places, where they respect your stay until the last minute, and here they treated us like criminals.' Moments later, Mollinedo confronted one of the workers who allegedly had led them out of Bagatelle. 'Then, it was this man who escorted us,' she said while focusing her cell phone's camera on him. 'Look, this man was the one who escorted us.' The worker then snapped, 'Here we close at 1, it's not how you want.' A Bagatelle worker (pictured) stood up to Mexican journalist Claudia Mollinedo after she accused the Mexico City's staff of tossing them out of the restaurant at 1:30 am Saturday - 30 minutes after its scheduled closing time The viral confrontation caught the attention of Mollinedo's bosses at Imagen Television, where she was fired Monday, local news outlets reported Mollinedo was also suspended from her columnist gig at El Independiente. 'Our media outlet does not share your point of view and will therefore suspend its weekly collaboration until the events are clarified,' El Independiente said in a statement. Imagen Television has yet to publicly comment on Mollinedo's termination. The veteran journalist took to Instagram on Monday evening and offered a mea culpa for her actions. Mollinedo acknowledged that her video was 'reckless and, above all, poorly presented' and that she used poor judgment in posting it online. 'I understand that the video seemed arrogant, haughty, and even overbearing,' she said. 'I assure you that's not me, and those who know me professionally and personally and have been with me for more than 14 years of experience know this.' Mollinedo was also suspended from El Indenpendiente newspaper, where she writes a weekly column Mollinedo and her three friends were visibly upset that after spending 25,000 pesos [about $1,330] on a dinner bill, they were told they had to leave Bagatelle's Mexico City location at 1:30 am on Saturday - 30 minutes after it had closed for business Mollinedo accepted Imagen Television's decision to dismiss her and admitted that her position at the network didn't place her above anybody else. 'I don't consider myself superior to anyone, I don't consider myself untouchable. It was never my intention to use my voice to harm or discredit anyone,' she said. 'If I offended anyone, if I created an offensive image, and unintentionally contributed to hate speech that doesn't respect my values, I sincerely apologize,' Mollinedo added. 'I'm going to take this time to reflect and, above all, to rebuild myself with truth and empathy.' Mollinedo's social media followers did not warm up to her apolody. 'The video didn't "seem" like it, the video *showed* your way of being and that of your friends,' one person commented. 'By the way, you apologize to half the world, but doesn't the worker you exposed and filmed without permission deserve an apology,' another follower said. 'Your tone of voice and body language are so neutral that it seems dishonest,' one person said. 'I don't know who's advising you, but it's awful.' The Albanese government has decided to include YouTube accounts in its ban on access to social media for those under the age of 16. The decision will be controversial with many social media users, especially young people, and face resistance from the company. YouTube, owned by Google, has threatened to sue if it were included in the ban. The government said in a statement that it was 'Informed by advice from the eSafety Commissioner'. The eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, said in her advice to the Minister for Communications Anika Wells last month, 'YouTube currently employs persuasive design features and functionality that may be associated with harms to health, including those which may contribute to unwanted or excessive use'. Apart from YouTube, platforms that will be age restricted are Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and X, among others. Platforms will face fines up to $49.5 million if they are found to fail to take responsible steps to prevent underage account holders using them. Young people would still be able to access YouTube through a search, but would be unable to set up an account. Argument has raged about whether YouTube should be included in the ban, with those opposed to capturing it arguing it has educational value to younger people. The Albanese government will include YouTube in its social media ban for under 16s 'YouTube is a video-sharing platform, not a social media service, that offers benefit and value to younger Australians,' a YouTube spokesperson said in its defence. A range of online gaming, messaging apps, health and education services are being exempted from the ban. 'These types of online services have been excluded from the new minimum age obligations because they pose fewer social media harms to under 16s, or are regulated under different laws,' the government said in a statement. The ban comes into effect on December 10 this year. Age-restricted social media accounts are defined as services that allow users to interact and post material. 'Our government is making it clear we stand on the side of families. Social media has a social responsibility and there is no doubt that Australian kids are being negatively impacted by online platforms so I'm calling time on it, the PM said. 'Social media is doing social harm to our children, and I want Australian parents to know that we have their backs.' Wells said there was no perfect solution to keep people safer online, 'but the social media minimum age will make a significantly positive difference to their wellbeing. The rules are not a set and forget, they are a set and support.' A Georgia family had their beautiful home stolen from under them after it was auctioned off with an alleged fake deed. The house once belonged to James Klucken's grandmother, but after she died he was appointed power of attorney over the $507,500 property. Drama unfolded in 2019 when he and his wife Lucretia Klucken started receiving letters about a $50,000 reverse mortgage debt linked to the three-bedroom, three-bathroom home. After fully examining the documents, the couple said they soon realized someone forged both James' and his grandmother's signatures, leading to the ownership of the home to be transferred without their permission. The Kluckens then filed a complaint with the Walton County Sheriff's Office, but investigators determined it was a civil matter, not criminal. To further support their claim that someone signed the deed for James, the couple hired a handwriting expert who concluded what they already believed - someone forged his signature to get their hands on the home. 'It started as us trying to save our home. And it ended in us losing it over forged documents,' James told WSBT-TV. To make matters worse, the home was recently foreclosed and sold at auction to Maverick Land Company LLC - despite the company allegedly knowing the home's documents were fraudulent, the couple claimed. James and Lucretia Klucken (pictured) claim their Georgia home was stolen from them after James' name was forged in deed documents The house (pictured) once belonged to James' grandmother, but after she died he was appointed power of attorney over the property 'Its heart-wrenching. This is the only place Ive ever called home,' Lucretia told the outlet as she stood next to her husband. After hearing that Maverick Land Company LLC purchased the home at auction, the Kluckens filed a civil lawsuit against them and the mortgage company involved in the sale on July 7, per court documents obtained by Daily Mail. Maverick offered them more than $300,000 to settle the issue outside of court, but James refused the offer. Instead, the couple have decided to fight for the property that they have since been evicted from. During a court hearing, the family claimed that the closing attorney who notarized the alleged forged deed said she was willing to testify that she saw James sign the documents himself. In the end, the attorney was allowed to leave court without providing testimony under oath, the Kluckens said. 'All of the forgery and signatures were stamped on September 23, 2017,' James explained. The home was recently foreclosed and sold at auction to Maverick Land Company LLC despite the company knowing the home's documents were allegedly fraudulent, the couple (pictured) said The couple hired a handwriting expert who concluded what they already believed - someone forged his signature to get their hands on the home 'None of this couldve happened unless someone in authority stamped the paperwork and pushed it through.' The entire ordeal took place before the state passed a law that now requires people to have their ID verified before any changes are made to a property deed. Starting January 1, 2025, Georgia residents must upload an image of their ID in order to file any real estate documents, according to Georgia Superior Court Clerks' Cooperative Authority. The couple have continued to fight to undo the sale of the home and one day reclaim the property as their own. They started an online fundraiser to help support their legal expenses. 'This is more than just a property battle; it's about justice, honesty, and protecting the elderly from such heartless theft,' James wrote. 'We are fighting back with all our might because we know that this fraud happens far too often to innocent folks like my grandmother. Its not right!' As of Tuesday morning, more than $2,000 was raised to help them out. Daily Mail contacted Maverick Land Company LLC and the Kluckens for comment. A nursery school teacher has confessed to brutally murdering her partner's four-year-old daughter after flying into a jealous rage. Amber Lee Hughes admitted at Johannesburg High Court in South Africa that she drowned little Nada-Jane Challita in a bathtub filled with cold water. In harrowing testimony, the court heard how Hughes forced the child's head underwater by sitting on her as she fought to escape. Prosecutors graphically told the court on July 24 that the teacher had earlier raped the defenceless youngster. Hughes has denied the accusation, telling the court: 'I persist with the denial that I have raped the deceased.' Nada-Jane had been left alone with Hughes on January 23, 2023 while her father, Elie Challita, went to a job interview, the court was told. But Hughes suspected he was cheating and sent him a chilling message which read: 'You broke my heart. I'm going to burn yours. How could you do that to me?' Prosecutors said the pair began dating in 2021, and Hughes later moved into the family home with Challita and his daughter. Phindi Mjonondwane, speaking for the National Prosecuting Authority, told the court: 'During her stay, their relationship was allegedly marked by frequent altercations.' Nada-Jane had been left alone with Hughes on 23 January 2023 while her father, Elie Challita, went to a job interview Amber Lee Hughes admitted at Johannesburg High Court in South Africa that she drowned little Nada-Jane Challita in a bathtub filled with cold water Hughes had previously denied any involvement in Nada-Jane's death. Although she has now confessed to murdering the child, she still denies the rape charge. She told the court: 'I admit that I suffered from borderline personality disorder at the time of the incident, but was aware of what I was doing on that day. 'The event was triggered by the argument I had with the deceased's father concerning his infidelity, and the final trigger was when he told me that I should stop bombarding him. 'I admit that after the deceased became unresponsive, I left her in the bathtub with the cold water tap still running. She also told the court about how she tried to kill herself. After the hearing, Nada-Jane's father said he was relieved that the truth was starting to emerge. He said: 'Now I know, legally, she killed my child. I'm now waiting to find out how long she tortured her before she killed her.' The case has been adjourned to August 7, when the court will hear arguments concerning the rape charge. Hughes had previously denied any involvement in Nada-Jane's death but has now confessed to murdering the child After the hearing, Nada-Jane's father said he was relieved that the truth was starting to emerge For confidential support, call Samaritans on 116 123, visit samaritans.org or visit https://www.thecalmzone.net/get-support A prolific former shoplifter has described turning her life around after stealing 30million worth of luxury goods in a 20-year crime spree. Keeley Knowles, 42, targeted upmarket stores in Birmingham every morning, raking in up to 8,000 a day as she sold the stolen items on WhatsApp. Funding her heroin addiction, Knowles fooled shop staff and was allowed her to 'get away with murder', ending up in jail '28 times here and three times in Amsterdam'. But the former addict - who has even won an award since reconnecting with her family - says she has now turned her life around and is 18 months clean thanks to pioneering technology. Knowles, of Kings Heath, Birmingham, said: 'I was fully involved in the lifestyle. I could easily do seven grams of heroin in a day. When my habit finished I was spending around 1,000 a day. 'I had a WhatsApp group that had around 150 people in it, I'd take photos on the train or bus after coming out of a shop and before I even got half way home it would be sold. 'Money would either go in my bank or I would go and drop it off and collect the money. 'I knew when people's pay days were, what size their kids were, what people's favourite designer was. Keeley Knowles (pictured), 42, targeted upmarket stores in Birmingham every morning, raking in up to 8,000 a day as she sold the stolen items on WhatsApp Funding her heroin addiction, Knowles fooled shop staff and was allowed her to 'get away with murder', ending up in jail '28 times here and three times in Amsterdam' The former addict has even won a National Business crime solutions award since reconnecting with her family 'People think only gangs are organised crime and that's not right.' Knowles went on to describe her daily routine, saying she would get up in the morning and ring around different stores to determine when security was in. She said: 'To make a thousand pounds you've got to steal a lot of stuff a day. Some days I'd steal 7,000 to 8,000 worth of stock. 'The only days I never shoplifted was Christmas Day and Good Friday when the shops weren't open. So those were my only two days off.' Keeley Knowles's life of crime began when she was just 13-years-old and she met a 21-year-old man. She was soon hooked on heroin. Speaking to the Birmz Is Grime blog, she added: 'I got in trouble a lot when I was younger, firearms and drugs. 'I was chosen to travel to Liverpool to pick up kilos of heroin and crack - the equivalent of todays county lines but nobody knew of that back then. I was 13. 'My nan and grandad bought me up, my dad was in jail and I didn't see my mum. Because of the generation gap I don't think they knew what was going on.' Keeley explained her 'nan and grandad' brought her up as her father was in jail and she did see her mother. She said: 'Because of the generation gap I don't think they knew what was going on. Keeley Knowles's life of crime began when she was just 13-years-old and she met a 21-year-old man. She was soon hooked on heroin 'I got away with murder, I think my nan thought I had flu for years, when I was suffering withdrawals. But they were there through everything. 'I got arrested and went to prison around once a year.' At a store in Selly Oak, the security guard once told an officer Knowles had taken 3.7million worth of stock, she said, with Loss Prevention magazine estimating it at around 30million. But Knowles said anyone estimating the figure from her going into a shop once a day should do it much higher. She said: 'I'd steal so much I'd have to go get a trolley from Sainsbury's just to move it. 'There's no rush to it, it was just what I had to do to feed my addiction. 'So many security know me, it's shocking. To the point one stopped me the other week, I haven't been in trouble for so long either, to say happy birthday. 'I said "how do you know its my birthday?" and he said 'Keeley I've had to fill out your date of birth constantly for how many years'. Knowles said of her recovery: 'I'd love to say I had a big epiphany but I just found the number in a drawer one day and I thought I'd try them' 'I didn't live, I just existed. I just got up, scored, went grafting, sold it, scored, slept - and I did it all over again. 'I've been to jail 28 times here and three times in Amsterdam. There's only three jails in the country I haven't been to and its the same faces each time. 'Women's jail is like St Trinian's on crack - that is the best way you can describe it. 90 per cent are there for addiction. 'I thought I would die a junkie.' Knowles said her saving grace was West Midlands Police's Offending to Recovery programme, which offers support for addicts. She now works alongside the programme, doing outreach work with drug users and gives talks on the drug Buvidal, a slow-release opioid blocker. The 42-year-old has also won a National Business crime solutions award and since reconnected with her family. She said: 'It was the security guard at the 3.7 million shop who said 'you're better than this' and referred me and got me listed for help with the offending to recovery team. 'I'd love to say I had a big epiphany but I just found the number in a drawer one day and I thought I'd try them. 'They were telling me about this new treatment and I though it was bulls**t but I agreed to do it. 'I was having seizures, hallucinations, it was horrific, but then I had this injection and I slept like a normal human, had no cravings. 'I've now tried to make my recovery something for other people as well. 'Seeing somebody who has been even lower than you come out the other end is very different to being told it by somebody who sits in an office and gets paid to do it. 'I was unfixable, don't write anyone off. If I can be fixed, anyone can be fixed.' Former Metropolitan Police officer, David Carrick, has been accused of raping a woman and indecently assaulting a child in court today. The 50-year-old has denied eight sexual offences, which include five counts of indecent assault in relation to the child, between April 9, 1989 and April 8, 1990. The girl was under 14 and Carrick was between 14 and 15 at the time those alleged offences took place in Salisbury, Wiltshire. Carrick also denies two charges of rape, one of sexual assault and a further charge of controlling or coercive behaviour in relation to a woman in Stevenage, Hertfordshire. David Carrick, of Stevenage, Hertfordshire, (pictured) appeared via video link from HMP Full Sutton at the Old Bailey today The former Metropolitan Police officer has been accused of raping a woman and indecently assaulting a child The alleged incidents are said to have taken place between December 1, 2014, and December 31, 2019. Carrick, who served in the forces Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command, appeared at the Old Bailey today via video link from HMP Full Sutton near York. The ex-police officer, wearing a navy t-shirt, spoke to confirm his name at the brief hearing on legal issues heard by the trial judge Mrs Justice McGowan. The trial will begin on 3 November. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was spotted rocking out at a Lady Gaga concert in San Francisco this week. The 85-year-old Democrat who has represented the city since 1987 was seen with front-row tickets at the superstar's 'Mayhem Ball' on Sunday. She was spotted with her husband Paul Pelosi by her side, video posted online shows. 'It was a fabulous show in San Francisco!' Pelosi's X account later posted. 'The most fun I've had in a long time.' Clips of Pelosi at the concert show her finding her seat and then later dancing, or more swaying, back and forth as Lady Gaga sings and plays guitar. Many of those in the comments were shocked that the octogenarian was out at such a raucous venue. 'Front row tix for gaga this diva has taste,' the pop culture gal on X wrote. 'This has to be the most cringe video on the net right now,' reacted another. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and her husband Paul Pelosi at Lady Gaga's concert in San Francisco on Sunday Nancy Pelosi attends Lady Gagas MAYHEM Ball with floor tickets. pic.twitter.com/W1mcKHaJGi Pop Crave (@PopCrave) July 29, 2025 'Ma'am I'm only 50 and I'm in bed by 10 pm. What are you doing out,' said another X user. In a statement to the San Francisco Chronicle, Pelosi told the outlet: 'Lady Gaga is very beautiful, extraordinarily talented and surprisingly humble! It was a fabulous show.' Pelosi is a known Gaga fan and has gone to her see her before. In 2021, the former speaker was spotted at a Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett concert at New York's Radio City Music Hall. Gaga gave a heartwarming tribute to Bennett, who passed in 2023, during her show. The Pelosi couple's night out comes just eight months after the former speaker got a hip replacement in December 2024. While the Democrat was on a congressional delegation to Luxembourg she slipped on a marble staircase and fell. After the nasty tumble she was rushed to hospital. Her spokesperson revealed in a statement that weekend that she traveled to Germany and underwent successful hip replacement surgery. A six-year-old boy was critically injured on a busy Las Vegas thoroughfare when a chunk of asphalt flew off a passing vehicle and smashed into the car he was riding in. The freak accident occurred on Monday at about 7:43am while the child was riding in the backseat of a 2017 Honda Pilot heading northbound on Durango Drive with the driver and another child inside the car, according to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. That's when a 'large portion of asphalt became dislodged' from a vehicle passing in the other direction, flew through the Honda's windshield and struck the boy. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and took the child to University Medical Center of Southern Nevada with critical injuries. Both the driver, identified as Makayla Engstrum, 34, and the second passenger, a four-year-old boy, were unharmed, police said. Engstrum, whose relationship to the two boys is unclear, declined to comment on the horrifying ordeal when reached by the Daily Mail. Police haven't released the names of the two boys. The accident remains under investigation by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department's Collision Investigation Division. The area was closed in both directions on Monday for the investigation. The freak accident occurred on Monday at about 7:43am while the child was riding in the backseat of a 2017 Honda Pilot heading northbound on Durango Drive with the driver and another child inside the car A New Hampshire woman had a terrifying surprise this week when she walked into her bathroom and found a five-foot-long python making itself at home. The incident unfolded on Monday inside an apartment in Derry, prompting the resident to immediately call police for help. Responding officers located the massive ball python in the bathroom and managed to safely capture it in a plastic tote. While the python was described by police as 'docile, friendly, and clearly someone's pet,' they admitted it was an unnerving experience for several officers. Authorities canvassed neighboring units in an attempt to identify the owner. The python was handed off to Derry Animal Control, then transferred to a humane society that handles exotic animals, before being reunited with its owner. One neighbor, Chuck Van Coppenolle, who lives directly below the unit where the python was found, told WMUR he was rattled by the discovery. 'I'd be definitely scared of that. A snake like that I don't even like the little ones, never mind the big ones like that,' he said. A five-foot ball python was found in a womans bathroom in New Hampshire The snake was spotted slithering around the base of the toilet in a Derry apartment A cat owner, Van Coppenolle feared for his pet's safety. He said: '[The police] wanted to make sure before they did anything that it wasn't my pet. First of all, I wouldn't have any snake as a pet, and I definitely wouldn't have a python. 'Even if it's friendly, it can cause a lot of problems. I'm glad they got rid of it.' Authorities are still unsure how the animal got into the apartment - but snake expert Kevin McCurley, who owns New England Reptile Distributors in Plaistow, said the plumbing may be to blame. 'It's a possibility that that ball python could actually go down the toilet, go down into the waterways, so it only has to hold its breath for a little period of time,' he told WMUR. The python in question is a ball python, one of the most common pet snakes, according to RodentPro. These non-venomous constrictors typically reach three to five feet in length and are known for their calm and gentle nature. Snakes appearing in toilets may sound like a nightmare scenario, but it happens more often than you'd think - especially in the southern US. In December, a woman in Texas was bitten after unknowingly sitting on a toilet where a snake was hiding. Just one month earlier, another woman in South Carolina found a python coiled behind her toilet, sending her fleeing from the bathroom. A once sought-after city in Oregon is working to win back investor confidence after chaotic protests and so-called 'woke' policies drove away developers. Portland was once a hotspot for housing investment, particularly after a construction boom in 2010, but has recently seen a dramatic decline. The city dropped to 80th out of 81 metro hubs in a recent Urban Land Institute report into construction levels, according to Oregon Live. At the end of 2024, the city had just over 1,600 housing units under construction - the lowest number recorded since 2011. The construction slowdown can be attributed in part to the 2020 protests in the heart of the city and the reputational damage that followed, with one economist describing Portlands lingering image as a 'dumpster fire,' according to Oregon Live. Governor Tina Kotek and Mayor Keith Wilson have agreed to meet with skeptical investors in an effort to address the citys rising cost of living and restore confidence in the housing market. 'We're going to have to stay on the development community,' Gov Kotek told the outlet. 'I want to make sure Portland is competitive,' she added. To rein in the cost of living in the coastal metro, more housing must be developed - but homebuilders rely heavily on outside investors to finance these projects. Portland, Oregon (pictured) was once a sought-after area but is now working to win back investor confidence after chaotic protests and so-called 'woke' policies drove builders away Portland was once a hotspot for housing investment, particularly after a construction boom in 2010, but has recently seen a dramatic decline (pictured: construction) Governor Tina Kotek (left) and Mayor Keith Wilson (right) have agreed to meet with skeptical investors in an effort to address the citys rising cost of living and restore confidence in the housing market Wilson and Kotek share a goal of boosting housing by making construction easier - starting with a three-year waiver on certain building fees. The Portland City Council approved the fee waiver earlier this month, a move welcomed by developers, according to Oregon Live. The idea to waive the system development charges and fees related to housing construction came from a group called the Multifamily Housing Development Workgroup. But the recent report, watched by investors and industry insiders - has done little to restore confidence among business owners and developers about Portland's future. This week, the mayor and governor convened a taskforce made up of city councilors, state officials and housing policy experts - an idea also suggested by the Multifamily Housing Development Workgroup. Together, the group will brainstorm ways to reverse the citys severe apartment construction slump, though the details of upcoming meetings about Portlands business outlook are still undecided. Since the murder of George Floyd in 2020, Portland has been grappling with ongoing unrest that has deeply affected the city. On New Years Eve 2020, another riot erupted as protesters smashed windows and threw firebombs at police officers, who later shared images of Molotov-style cocktails scattered on the streets. The construction slowdown can be attributed in part to the 2020 protests in the heart of the city and the reputational damage that followed (pictured: downtown Portland) The Portland City Council approved a three year waiver on certain building fees earlier this month This week the governor (pictured) launched a taskforce made up of city councilors, state officials and housing policy experts to generate ideas to reverse the citys construction slump Earlier this month chaos erupted at an ICE detention facility center in the city after hundreds of protestors attempted to storm holding cells (pictured) In May the west coast city was forced to slash the sale price of one of its biggest office buildings after it became overrun with homeless people. Portland, which is known for its liberal politics, has since seen its downtown suffer after a failed attempt at drug decriminalization. The city's office vacancy rate was 35 percent in the first three months of the year, the worst of the top 25 central business districts in the country, according to real estate firm Colliers. One of the most telling signs of its downtown decline is the sale of its US Bancorp Tower at a list price of 80 percent less than its previous valuation, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. Technology publisher Digital Trends filed a lease-termination lawsuit claiming its staff were unsafe as the building had been taken over by the homeless population of downtown Portland. The publisher claimed in its lawsuit that the building had 'vagrants sleeping in hallways of vacant office floors... starting fires in stairwells, smoking fentanyl and defecating in common areas.' The building had became a 'cesspool of criminal activity and vandalism,' they alleged. Earlier this month chaos erupted at an ICE detention facility center in the city after hundreds of protestors attempted to storm holding cells. Video footage captured demonstrators being tackled to the ground as officers deployed smoke bombs and tear gas to try and control the crowd. Girls exploited by Asian grooming gangs in Rotherham allege that they were also preyed upon by police officers, it emerged today. One says she was raped from the age of 12 by a serving South Yorkshire Police officer in a marked car, the BBC reports. He would threaten to hand her back to the gang if she did not comply, she says. The woman is one of five who allege that as children they were exploited by corrupt police as well as grooming gangs. Among officers alleged to have preyed on girls is PC Hassan Ali. He died in 2015 having been hit by a car on the day he was suspended over alleged misconduct during the abuse scandal. At least 1,400 girls in Rotherham were abused by gangs of men - mainly of Pakistani heritage - between 1997 and 2013, Prof Alexis Jay concluded in a landmark report in 2014. South Yorkshire Police's major crime unit is currently conducting the inquiry into the involvement of police officers in the Rotherham grooming scandal under the 'direction and control' of police watchdog the IOPC. Three former South Yorkshire officers have been arrested on suspicion of historic sexual offences including attempted rape, indecent assault and misconduct in a public office while they were on duty. (Pictured: South Yorkshire Police HQ) Professor Alexis Jay (pictured) said in her landmark 2014 report that at least 1,400 children were abused in Rotherham over 16 years while authorities and the police failed to act Three former South Yorkshire officers have been arrested on suspicion of historic sexual offences including attempted rape, indecent assault and misconduct in a public office while they were on duty. None has been charged. Written accounts by grooming gang survivors collected by specialist child abuse lawyers allege years of abuse by serving police officers in Rotherham from the mid-1990s to early 2000s. Most were girls in their teens at the time but some were as young as 11, according to the shocking report. One reports hearing a police officer having sex with girls in exchange for drugs and money. Another says she witnessed one supplying class A drugs to a grooming gang. Three describe being beaten up by officers as children, including in a police cell. One victim given the pseudonym Willow told the broadcaster she was sexually abused by hundreds of men over five years after first being targeted aged 11 - two of them police officers. PC Hassan Ali - who died in 2015 having been hit by a car on the day he was suspended over alleged misconduct during the abuse scandal - was named by one alleged victim as having raped her 'He knew where we used to hang out, he would request either oral sex or rape us in the back of the police car,' she said. 'In a world where you were being abused so much, being raped once [each time] was a lot easier than multiple rapes and I think he knew that.' According to Willow, after she was pressured into an illegal abortion by the grooming gang, a youth worker contacted social services and the police. But she says one of the officers who had been abusing her turned up to interview her, leaving her 'destroyed', later ripping her statement up and throwing it in a bin. According to the BBC she named PC Hassan Ali as having raped her. He died in January 2015, a week after being hit by a car. On the same day he had been put on restricted duties because of an investigation into alleged misconduct in the abuse scandal. He was never arrested. Another victim, 'Emma', who was in care in the late 1990s, said she would be raped by a police officer in a squat. 'He knew we wouldn't be missed, he knew we wouldn't be reported,' she told the BBC. 'He knew we wouldn't be able to say anything.' Amy Clowrey, from specialist child abuse law firm Switalskis, who has been collecting the testimony, said the accounts of police preying on grooming gang victims were 'beyond belief' South Yorkshire Assistant Chief Constable Hayley Barnett (pictured) insists victims and survivors are 'at the heart of this investigation and all of our actions continue to be made in their best interests' Amy Clowrey from Switalskis, who has been collecting the testimony, said the accounts of police allegedly preying on grooming victims were 'beyond belief'. 'There has been no accountability in the town - and without accountability, there will continue to be a distrust of South Yorkshire Police,' she added. Prof Jay today said she is 'shocked' that the force is investigating its own former officers. She told the BBC there were 'legitimate' reasons for victims to feel 'a total lack of trust' in the force. Calling for an outside force or the Inspectorate of Constabulary to be brought in to investigate, she told the BBC that there was a risk of institutions prioritising 'protecting their reputation' over 'the welfare of children'. Today South Yorkshire Assistant Chief Constable Hayley Barnett insisted that victims and survivors were 'at the heart of this investigation and all of our actions continue to be made in their best interests'. She added: 'We have a dedicated team of detectives working on this case who have worked diligently to explore all lines of enquiry. This has led to three arrests. 'One of those former officers remains on police bail pending further enquiries. The other two have been released from bail while the investigation continues. 'The investigation is overseen by the IOPC, which has directed South Yorkshire Police to investigate on its behalf.' In addition the force is 'working closely' with the National Crime Agency, she added. The force told the BBC that PC Ali had faced 'allegations of persistently asking a victim on a date, sharing information and failure to safeguard victims'. The Independent Office for Police Conduct said it was informed by South Yorkshire Police of allegations of historic abuse by its officers last year. It subsequently instructed the force to carry out an investigation 'under our direction and control'. A spokesman said: 'We have been in contact with solicitors representing some of the victim-survivors regarding further reports of offending to ensure that any new complaints are investigated. 'The investigation has since widened to involve complaints from six women. 'We want victim-survivors to feel confident that all complaints will be treated extremely seriously and sensitively. 'We encourage any victim-survivors or any witnesses to come forward if they have not already done so.' It told the BBC it was 'satisfied that there is no conflict of interest' and that it had been assured by South Yorkshire Police that none of the investigating officers worked with those currently under investigation. Crowds of furious pro-Palestine activists calling for an end to the war in Gaza demonstrated against the arrival of an Israeli cruise ship on another Greek island on Tuesday - the third such protest on Greek islands in the last week. Protesters on the southern Greek island of Crete unfurled a huge Palestinian flag at the port of Agios Nikolaos and shouted 'Free, free Palestine' as the tourists on board the Crown Iris disembarked and left on buses for their tours of the island. Activists from the sizeable protest, some garbed in keffiyehs, carried posters and placards, accusing Israel of committing genocide and 'deliberately starving Palestinians'. The demonstrators clashed with police squads, armed with riot shields and helmets, who were deployed at the pier where the cruise ship was docked and tried to push back the chanting masses. Officers even used pepper spray at one point to keep the protest in control as scuffles broke out between activists and the police, reported local media. Four people were detained, local media said. Video showed police leading one man away, his arms cuffed behind his back, as he shouted: 'Free, free Palestine.' In another video, a man is led away forcefully by two officers gripping his elbows as a woman watches on disapprovingly, saying: 'I thought it was freedom of speech.' Similar scenes unfolded the previous day when the Crown Iris docked in a port on the eastern Greek island of Rhodes, where clashes broke out between riot police and demonstrators condemning Israel's military conduct in Gaza. Activists from the sizeable protest, some garbed in keffiyehs, carried posters and placards, accusing Israel of committing genocide and 'deliberately starving Palestinians' Protestors unveil a huge Palestine flag to greet the Israeli cruise ship as it arrives into port Police in helmets and riot shields watch over the protest against the arrival of Israeli cruise passengers A protester greets the passengers on the deck of the cruise ship Protesters waved Palestinian flags as police watched on The demonstrators clashed with police squads, armed with riot shields and helmets, who were deployed at the pier where the cruise ship was docked Officers even used pepper spray at one point to keep the protest in control as scuffles broke out between activists and the police, local media reported The protest mirrored those the previous day when the Crown Iris docked in a port on the eastern Greek island of Rhodes, where clashes broke out between riot police and demonstrators Activists use a megaphone to speal to the crowd who assembled to protest the arrival of the Israeli cruise ship A number of activists were arrested at the rally and groups of officers were photographed restraining others. There also, the cruise ship's passengers disembarked for tours of the island, and no violence was reported. 'The riot police started pushing us and chasing us away from the area,' one pro-Palestinian organiser said in a statement after the demonstration. 'We crossed the old city and went to the other side of the port, where there was again a heavy police presence.' Anti-war protesters on Greece's Cycladic island of Syros were the first to hold a demonstration against the docking of the Crown Iris, on July 22. The crowd of about 150 people chanted slogans and carried banners that read 'Stop the Genocide' and 'No a/c in hell' - a reference to the conditions Palestinians face in the Gaza Strip. On that occasion, the ship's roughly 1,700 passengers didn't disembark and the ship left the island earlier than planned, with the company operating the trip, Israel's Mano Cruise, saying it had 'decided in light of the situation in the city of Syros to now sail to another tourist destination'. Strong security measures had been deployed on Rhodes by Greek authorities in a bid to prevent a repeat of Syros, where the tourists - including 300 to 400 children - were forced away. Last week's incident had triggered a phone call by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar to Greek counterpart George Gerapetritis. Four people were detained at the demonstration on Tuesday in Crete according to local media Protesters on the southern Greek island of Crete unfurled a huge Palestinian flag at the port of Agios Nikolaos and shouted 'Free, free Palestine' Protesters flocked to the dock to demonstrate against Israel's military conduct in Gaza Following the unrest in Soros and Rhodes, the police were on high alert when the Israeli tourists arrived at Agios Nikolaos in Crete Many of the pro-Palestine protestors carried banners and held flags in support of Gaza during the war with Israel Greece is a popular tourist destination for Israelis on package tours and traveling independently, particularly in the summer months. There are several flights per day between Tel Aviv and Athens, as well as from Israeli airports directly to Greek islands. Following the unrest in Soros and Rhodes, the police were on high alert when the Israeli tourists arrived at Agios Nikolaos in Crete, with one of the banners greeting tourists reading: 'Zionism = Fascism.' Police officers have already made the first arrests, reported local media. A convicted Latvian paedophile will be extradited to his home country after a judge rejected his claims that jail time in his native land would breach his human rights. Kaspars Botters abused a girl under the age of 16 on five occasions from 2009 to 2014 in Latvia. The 39-year-old, then came to the UK but was arrested in Nottingham after a conviction warrant was issued by authorities in his home country. Botters appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court today wearing a blue T-shirt and a navy jumper, while being aided by a Latvian interpreter. Shyan MacTavish, defending, previously said there was a high risk the sex offender would be subjected to intimidation and extortion by inmates in the Balkan country. Explaining how prison hierarchy was 'deeply embedded' in Latvian penitentiaries, she argued Botters would have 'a lack of protection', because he would be in the lowest of three castes. She also said his extradition could lead to a breach of rights under Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which guarantees the right to be free from torture, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Mr Botters faces potential violence by fellow prisoners in Latvia. It is an issue that permeates throughout the prison system there,' Ms MacTavish said. Latvia has a prison hierarchy which seems to be deeply embedded in every aspect of prison life. Latvia has also been using the practice of informal prison leaders. Kaspars Botters, 39, (pictured) abused a girl under the age of 16 on five occasions from 2009 to 2014 before being arrested in Nottingham Concerns over his safety in prison if sent back to the eastern European country were previously raised to a judge Now, District Judge Briony Clarke has rejected the claim extraditing Botters' would breach his human rights Every inmate in Latvia must belong to one of three castes. Mr Botters will be placed in the lowest caste. There would be a lack of protection for him. Latvian authorities seem to be facilitating this system by encouraging prisoners to be placed in castes. This court gave the Latvian authorities the opportunity to address that, but only a generic response was given. District Judge Briony Clarke rejected the argument Botters' extradition would breach his human rights. You have the right to challenge this decision. If you wish to do so you have the right to appeal within the next seven days,' she said. You will be extradited ten days after if he does not appeal. Harry Perkin, for the Latvian government, applied for the paedophile to pay costs of 1,050. However, Ms MacTavish argued he shouldn't have to pay as he had been in custody for 'some time'. When the time comes for your removal, it is important that you co-operate. A hardworking father-of-three was killed by a thief who shot him after stealing his work equipment. Derek Cummings, 32, died on Friday in Dekalb County, Georgia, after being gunned down outside of a fire station. His relatives told Fox5 that Cummings was doing yard work outside of a daycare on Friday when an item was stolen from his truck. An employee at the daycare alerted Cummings, who then followed the suspect in his own car. The pursuit ended at the fire station when he was shot. The suspect fled the scene in Cummings's own truck. He was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead. His mother, Sharon Jennings, started an online fundraiser to help her family with funeral expenses and to support his young family. Cummings leaves behind his fiancee Jennifer Leriche and his three kids, one of them a newborn son who was just a week old. Derek Cummings, 32, died on Friday in Dekalb, Georgia, after being shot outside of a fire station Jennings, who also worked as a truck driver, leaves behind his fiancee Jennifer Leriche and three kids, one of them a newborn son who is just a week old Jennings said: 'My son, my baby, my heart, was taken from me in the most senseless, heartbreaking way. 'His life was stolen by thieves trying to take his lawn equipment while he was out doing honest work - cutting someones yard to provide for his family.' Jennings said her son was trying to build a better life for himself, and took pride in being a new dad. 'My grandson will never get to grow up knowing his fathers voice, his laugh, his love', she added. His fiancee Jennifer told Fox5: 'The kids love him and he loved his kids, they took him too early. He was a good person. Can't nobody say anything bad about him. 'Whoever did it is still out there. And I want to say to them, yall don't know what yall have done. Yall don't know what yall took from us. That man was everything to us.' Derek is pictured alongside his mother Sharon, who started an online fundraiser to help his family The online fundraiser had raised over $2,000 as of Tuesday morning, with a target set at $40,000. Tributes poured in on social media, one person said: 'One of the kindest and funniest people Ive ever met R.I.P Derek praying for your family especially those babies.' Another commented: 'Please people put your guns away! This is horrible! My heart breaks for this family.' DeKalb County Police are investigating the theft and the shooting as they search for his killer. A description of the suspect has not been released. A new poll reveals who would win in a fantasy match-up between President Donald Trump and former President Barack Obama for president if they both ran for a third term. A new exclusive Daily Mail/J.L. Partners poll shows that Obama would win in a theoretical matchup. Of the respondents, 52 percent chose the former Democratic president and 41 percent chose Trump. Obama's 11-point majority over Trump stems from an enthusiastic Hispanic base, of which 73 percent selected Obama, and also 68 percent of black voters. Independent voters also preferred Obama over Trump in the hypothetical match, 50 percent for the former Democrat to just 39 percent for Trump. Past American presidents sometimes benefit from nostalgia over a president currently serving in office. Obama currently enjoys a 59 percent favorability rating while just 35 percent viewed him unfavorably. That's compared to Trump's 44 percent favorability mark. According to the exclusive poll, Trump has a 49 percent overall approval rating for his job performance as president, while 51 percent have an unfavorable view. The poll also shows that Trump would still beat Hillary Clinton if she ran for president again with 44 percent support over Clinton's 43 percent. Former US President Barack Obama speaks with President-elect Donald Trump President-elect Donald Trump (L) talks after a meeting with U.S. President Barack Obama (R) in the Oval Office Your browser does not support iframes. Trump would also beat former President Joe Biden with 44 percent versus just 40 percent support for Biden. American presidents are prevented from running for a third term, after the 22nd Amendment to the Constitution was passed and ratified in 1951. Trump has teased the idea in interviews, although he has conceded he is not yet planning on running for a third term. 'Im not joking,' Trump told NBC in March, when asked to clarify his comments on the idea. 'But Im not it is far too early to think about it.' When asked about how he would do so, Trump said cryptically, 'There are methods which you could do it.' He also said he would 'love' to run against Obama. 'I'd love that . That would be a good one,' he said to Fox News reporter Peter Doocy in March. 'I'd like that. And no, people are asking me to run, and there's a whole story about running for a third term. I don't know, I never looked into it. They do say there's a way you can do it, but I don't know about that.' Trump supporters have mused on a possible loophole in the law, if Vice President JD Vance won a presidential race in 2028 with Trump as his running mate. Theoretically, a President Vance could swear in as president and then resign, allowing a vice president Trump to ascend back into power. President-elect Donald Trump (2nd R),and his wife Melania Trump (2nd L), are greeted by President Barack Obama and his wife first lady Michelle Obama, upon arriving at the White House President-elect Donald Trump, left, and President Barack Obama arrive for Trump's inauguration ceremony Your browser does not support iframes. Obama also joked about the idea of a third term as his second term was coming to a close. 'I actually think Im a pretty good president. I think if I ran, I could win,' Obama joked during a 2015 speech in Ethiopia. 'Theres a lot that Id like to do to keep America moving. But the law is the law, and no person is above the law, not even the president.' In 2020, Obama also joked that he would be fine with a 'stand-in' president where 'they had an earpiece' and he could control them. "You know what? If I could make an arrangement where I had a stand-in, a front man or front woman, and they had an earpiece in and I was just in my basement in my sweats looking through the stuff, and then I could sort of deliver the lines, but somebody else was doing all the talking and ceremony, I'd be fine with that,' he joked in an interview with Stephen Colbert. The poll was conducted July 9 - July 10 among 1,013 registered voters. It has a 3.1 percent margin of error. A notorious murderer from Minnesota who slaughtered his entire family with an axe in 1988 was released from prison early on Tuesday morning. David Brom, now 53, was handed three life sentences for the horrific deaths of his parents Paulette and Bernard, both 41, and his siblings, Diane, 13, and Richard, 11, in Rochester - about an hour outside of Minneapolis. Brom, who was 16 at the time, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, but on October 16, 1989, he was convicted on four counts of first-degree murder and sentenced to life behind bars. He was initially supposed to be tried as a juvenile, but he was instead convicted as an adult because of the severity of the crime. Brom was set to get out of prison in his 70s after serving 17-and-a-half years per sentence for his crimes, but a 2023 state law changed everything. Senate File 2909 rules that individuals who were sentenced to life for crimes they committed as minors are now eligible for parole after serving a minimum of 15 years. Brom, who served more than 35 years, will now live at an unnamed Twin Cities halfway house while on work release, according to jail records. He will be monitored by a GPS device and will receive ongoing case management. David Brom (middle) murdered his parents Paulette (left) and Bernard (right), both 41, and his siblings, Diane (middle-left), 13, and Richard, 11 (middle-bottom), with an axe in their Rochester, Minnesota home in 1988 Brom, now 53, was released from prison early Tuesday morning after his life sentence was overturned thanks to a new state law passed in 2023 that ended juvenile life without parole sentences At the time of the heinous crime, Broms was a sophomore at Lourdes High School where he expressed to his peers that he had troubles at home, though specifics remain unclear. His older brother Joseph was not living at the family's home at the time of the murders. Joseph died in 2016 from cancer at the age of 46, according to his obituary. At the time of the heinous crimes, Broms (pictured) was a sophomore at Lourdes High School where he expressed to his peers that he had troubles at home, though specifics remain unclear Brom's mugshot showed him smiling big at the camera, while past footage showed him being ushered into court by officers while in handcuffs. While facing the state parole board in January, Brom said he spent his time in prison changing the things that led to 'the decisions that I made.' 'I changed everything that I could about myself... I believe I have a level of emotional maturity now in order to deal with and recognize what I'm feeling,' he told the board. He went on to apologize to the family and friends of those he killed and to the Rochester community. 'I apologize for the ripple effects of losing an entire family in such a horrific way,' Brom added. Brom also expressed that he didn't want to 'disappoint' his family further. 'I did not want to disappoint my grandparents after I had harmed them so much by continuing destructive behavior,' he said. Brom, who was 16 at the time, was convicted on four counts of first-degree murder and sentenced to life behind bars One of his deceased family members is seen being rolled out of the home that dreadful day 'That was a strong motivator for me as well, early in my incarceration.' Olmsted County Sheriff Kevin Torgerson remembers the terrifying murder scene he witnessed when he was called to the home that day. 'It's still hard for me to accept and forget the sites, the smells of what I saw,' Torgerson told CBS News. The news of Brom's release has sparked outrage, leaving some lawmakers furious with the recent legislation that set him free. 'It doesn't ensure safety in the state of Minnesota,' Rep. Lisa Demuth told the outlet. 'It really brings that into question, so I was very, very disappointed, very concerned.' While facing the state parole board in January, Brom said he spent his time in prison changing the things that led to 'the decisions that I made' Demuth has promised to 'revisit this law and change it when we get back into session.' Meanwhile, Rep. Sandra Feist, who wrote the bill, said it is in line with the Supreme Court. 'No one should have to spend their entire life behind bars for something that they were convicted of as a child when they've spent decades being rehabilitated,' Feist stated. Daily Mail contacted Brom's work release agent for comment but did not immediately hear back. This is the bizarre moment a reporter was mugged on a sidewalk in Brazil. Clara Nery, a television correspondent for the Band network, could be seen typing a message on her cell phone while she waited go to live on the Bora Brasil morning program from the southern Rio de Janeiro neighborhood of Botafogo on Monday morning. A man on a motorcycle appeared out of nowhere in the background and rode down the sidewalk before ripping the device out of Nery's hands. However, the speed at which he was traveling prevented him from holding on to the phone. A stunned Nery screamed and blurted out a cuss word before she reached for the ground to retrieve the device and disappeared from the camera's view. Nery said the mugger was unable to escape with her cell phone because she had a firm grip on it. 'I had my back turned when this man rode by on a motorcycle on the sidewalk and tried to take my phone,' she said. 'In the video, you can see the moment he puts his hand on my phone and takes it from me. Luckily, I was holding on tightly.' A Rio de Janeiro Military Police unit responded to the scene and searched the neighborhood but was unable to locate the suspect. Band television reporter Clara Nery was typing a message on her cell phone when a mugger (left) attempted to steal the device from her hand Brazilian journalist Clara Nery said surveillance camera images were reviewed and they were able to get a good view of the mugger's face The mugger was captured on camera as Clara Nery, a reporter with Brazil's Band television network, was preparing to go live from Rio de Janeiro Surveillance cameras were subsequently reviewed, and authorities were able to get a clear shot of the suspect. 'Luckily, and despite his lack of skill, I managed to retrieve the phone,' Nery said. 'But we already have the security camera footage, the camera that managed to focus on his face.' According to the Rio de Janeiro Public Security Institute, there was a 27 percent increase in cell phone thefts in June compared with the same period in 2024. At least 2,300 mobile devices were stolen last month in comparison with 1,808 in June of last year. A Texas woman was mauled to death my her own vicious pit bull - which witnesses said has a track record of being aggressive. Simone Lyke, 32, was attacked by her male Bully dog around 11pm on July 24 on the balcony of her San Antonio apartment. Police said Lyke had a friend over at the time, which had aggravated the dog. She was trying to move her pet to the balcony when he turned on her. The dog unexpectedly lunged at Lyke and the gory scene rapidly unfolded as she screamed for someone to call 911. A bystander tried to intervene and threw a pizza at the dog, but this only caught his attention momentarily before he continued relentlessly biting Lyke. She had tried to protect herself from the rampaging animal with her purse, witnesses told police, but her efforts were unsuccessful. She was rushed to the hospital in critical condition as police tried to tame the pet. Lyke succumbed to her fatal injuries on Sunday - which was her 32nd birthday - and her death was attributed to complications of dog mauling, KSAT reported. Simone Lyke (pictured), 32, was attacked by her male Bully dog around 11pm on July 24 on the balcony of her San Antonio apartment Dramatic footage captured the pit bull lashing out at police officers as they tried to bring him under control (pictured) Lyke was rushed to the hospital in critical condition (pictured) as police tried to tame the blood-thirsty hound Dramatic footage captured the pit bull lashing out at police officers as they tried to bring him under control. They eventually got ahold of the pet, which is now quarantined in the custody of San Antonio Animal Care Services (ACS) pending the investigation. ACS identified Lyke and another person as the owners of the pit bull. The second owner was hit with criminal citations after Lyke's death. They were cited for the dog biting Lyke as well as failing to show proof of vaccination or microchip for another dog in their care, the agency told KSAT. People at the scene of the gut-wrenching attack allegedly told police officers there had been other violent incidents involving the dog. The nature of these encounters remain unclear, but ACS told San Antonio Express-News there have been no previous reports of biting from the pit bull. No one has been arrested in connection to Lyke's death. ACS said they 'will continue to work closely with other law enforcement as the investigation moves forward.' Lyke's mother, Suzzette Lyke, has spoken out about her daughter's horrifying death on social media. Lyke (pictured) succumbed to her injuries on Sunday, which was her 32nd birthday ACS identified Lyke (pictured) and another person as the owners of the pit bull Along with tributes to her deceased child she has also claimed the dog did not belong to her, but her boyfriend. 'This is My Daughter Simone that was mauled but [sic] her boyfriends dog the chicken s*** [boyfriend's name] told the police it was hers pray for my daughter she is in critical condition,' Suzzette wrote on July 24 before Lyke passed away. It is unclear if the second owner identified by ACS was Lyke's boyfriend or not. Regardless, the agency did determine she was one of the owners. The Daily Mail has reached out to ACS and the San Antonio Police Department for comment and clarification. 'The love of my love is in Heaven with her family. Rest, my beautiful daughter, to be absent in the body, now you are present with the lord,' Suzzette wrote after Lyke's passing. A group of Maryland Democrats is getting skewered for a 'photo op' gone wrong after getting denied entry to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility. The lawmakers were visiting an ICE center in Baltimore when they began posting on social media about not being allowed inside. Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen slammed Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for 'lies' that they were not allowed to tour the facility. 'We did request a visit but we didn't need tothey're required by law to let us conduct oversight,' the senator posted on X alongside a video of him explaining to a federal employee that they were supposed to given entry. 'When I read the law to an ICE official, she said they're no longer allowing ANY tours, regardless of notice,' he continued. 'So this is BS, plain and simple.' Van Hollen, who previously caught headlines for meeting with suspected MS-13 gang member Kilmar Abrego Garcia - a deported and returned migrant who is the subject of a high-profile legal case against the Trump administration - was joined by five other Maryland Democrats. The state's other senator, Angela Alsobrooks, and Reps. Glenn Ivey, Kweisi Mfume, Johnny Olszewski and Sarah Elfreth were also locked out of the ICE office. They were quickly ridiculed for their failed attempt. 'Democrats are sitting outside of an ICE facility and demanding to be let in,' Tennessee Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn reacted to the stunt. 'They sat on their hands while illegals poured into our country, now they are trying to make illegal legal.' From left to right: Maryland Democrats Rep. Olszewski, Rep. Elfreth, a staffer, Rep. Mfume, Sen. Van Hollen and Rep. Ivey After the lawmakers were denied entry they hosted a press conference Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen, right, speaks with Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran citizen who was living in Maryland and deported to El Salvador by the Trump administration, in a hotel restaurant in San Salvador, El Salvador, Thursday, April 17, 2025 'Here are the Democrats who staged a 'sit-in' at an ICE facility in Maryland for a photo-op,' Paul Zoell posted on X with a picture of the lawmakers. 'It explains why Democrats have a 19 percent approval rating. If they keep this childish behavior up their own parents won't vote for them.' The conservative Libs of Tiktok account wrote: 'Democrat delegation including Senator Chris Van Hollen protest outside an ICE facility in an effort to gain entry. This might be the most pathetic thing I've seen all year.' A picture posted by Alsobrooks shows some of the lawmakers looking dejected while sitting on the floor outside of the ICE office's door. Following their failed attempt at entry, the Democrats held a press conference where they decried ICE and DHS for lacking transparency. Democrats in both chambers of Congress have been making unannounced visits to migrant detention centers and federal immigration offices since President Donald Trump took office earlier this year. In May, for example, a number of New Jersey Democrats, including Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, clashed with federal authorities at a migrant detention center called Delaney Hall. Baraka was detained during the protest for 'trespassing' after refusing to leave after being ordered to. New Jersey Democrat Rep. LaMonica McIver was indicted over the brawl with ICE agents. Migrants descending from a Colombian Air Force plane after being deported from the U.S. in Bogota in January Congresswoman LaMonica McIver (circled in red) got into a heated clash with law enforcement officers outside Newark ICE center Delaney Hall on May 9 The congresswoman was slapped with federal charges alleging she impeded and interfered with immigration officers as they sought to arrest Newark Mayor Baraka on May 9. Acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey and Trump ally Alina Habba announced the grand jury indictment in a post on X at the time. 'While people are free to express their views for or against particular policies, they must not do so in a manner that endangers law enforcement and the communities those officers serve,' Habba wrote. McIver has pleaded not guilty to the charges with her trial scheduled for November. Donald Trump has revealed astonishing details of a bizarre plan by a Secret Service agent to try to smuggle his wife onto a support plane as part of the president's just-concluded trip to Scotland. Trump spoke about the situation just minutes after initial reports that the Secret Service was investigating an agent who allegedly tried to carry out the scheme. 'That's a weird deal,' the president told the Daily Mail when asked about it aboard Air Force One on his return flight to Washington. 'You're going to leave the wife in the car? Wouldn't you think that might be a little dangerous?' 'I don't know if that is proper compression,' Trump said. His comments suggest that the alleged plan would have been to place his wife inside a vehicle that would be transported to Scotland for the trip, where Trump played his new golf course at Aberdeen. 'Keep her in the car, and she's going to be with a freighter,' Trump said, sounding incredulous about how the plan would even work. It may have even risked exposing her to cold temperatures at high altitude. 'That's a strange one. I just heard that two minutes ago,' the president added. 'I think Sean's taking care of it,' Trump said, referencing the head of the Secret Service, Sean Curran. 'I don't want to get involved but it's a strange story, I just heard that one,' the president reiterated. A Secret Service agent is under investigation after trying to bring his wife along with him on a support plane that was headed to Scotland as part of President Donald Trump's trip this week The wife of a Dallas-based agent was discovered at the distinguished visitor lounge at Joint Base Andrews, where Air Force One and other military aircraft take off. She had accompanied him to Maryland and attended an official Secret Service country briefing at a hotel and then rode the bus with her Secret Service agent husband to JBA - where she was discovered. 'The U.S. Secret Service is conducting a personnel investigation after an employee attempted to invite his spouse a member of the United States Air Force aboard a mission support flight,' Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi told the Herald. 'The aircraft, operated by the U.S. Air Force, was being used by the Secret Service to transport personnel and equipment,' he continued. 'Prior to the overseas departure, the employee was advised by supervisors that such action was prohibited, and the spouse was subsequently prevented from taking the flight. No Secret Service protectees were aboard and there was no impact to our overseas protective operation,' Guglielmi added. Trump departed for Scotland on Friday and will return to Joint Base Andrews later Tuesday. While the president flies on board Air Force One, a number of support planes always accompany the president - in order to get agents and staff on the ground and to get the presidential limousines and helicopters in place. The Secret Service did not say what day the incident occurred. It's the latest embarrassment for the agency, which has been under heavy scrutiny for more than a year. Just two days after his swearing-in, Trump named Curran to be the new director of the Secret Service, after the agency came under fire for Trump nearly being assassinated on July 13, 2024 at a Butler, Pennsylvania campaign rally. Curran was Trump's special agent in charge at the time. President Donald Trump commented on the 'weird deal' when asked about it by the Daily Mail President Donald Trump waves from the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews on Friday before departing for Scotland. The wife of a Secret Service agent was discovered trying to take a support flight to Scotland as part of Trump's trip Trump called Curran 'a Great Patriot, who has protected my family over the past few years, and that is why I trust him to lead the Brave Men and Women of the United States Secret Service.' 'He proved his fearless courage when he risked his own life to help save mine from an assassin's bullet in Butler, Pennsylvania,' Trump said when announcing his choice. The Secret Service had endured further scrutiny after a would-be assassin was found in September at Trump's West Palm Beach golf club, just weeks before the presidential election. In December a House task force investigating the assassination attempts found 'significant failures in the planning, execution, and leadership of the Secret Service and its law enforcement partners.' 'The Task Force found that the tragic and shocking events in Butler, Pennsylvania were preventable and should not have happened,' the committee's report said. 'There was not, however, a singular moment or decision that allowed Thomas Matthew Crooks to nearly assassinate the former President.' It continued: 'The various failures in planning, execution, and leadership on and before July 13, 2024, and the preexisting conditions that undermined the effectiveness of the human and material assets deployed that day, coalesced to create an environment in which the former President - and everyone at the campaign event - were exposed to grave danger.' Prior to the two assassination attempts, Secret Service agents had gotten in trouble for various antics. In 2022, for example, two agents were sent home from President Joe Biden's trip to Asia after one was accused of drunkenly assaulting a South Korean after getting in a fight over a taxi. The NHS has allowed trusts to spend almost 2million on staff networks which have hosted a series of woke events over the past two years, the Mail can reveal. New figures show the health service budgeted more than 1.8million for the internal staff groupings, which are usually linked to race, sexuality, gender, disability or religion. More than 154 NHS Trusts responded to Freedom of Information requests from the TaxPayers Alliance (TPA) revealing how the networks have hosted hundreds of events between 2022 and 2024. They included an event on Embracing Asexuality at the The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust in Essex. NHS staff also attended a talk on Embracing your Afro/Curly hair at University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and another on International Pronouns Day at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust. A talk on Breaking the Rainbow Ceiling was held at the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Trust, while Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust hosted an event on pride crafting. The NHS said many of the events are run at no or very low cost, but the TPA said it was astonishing to see staff spending their time at such events instead of focusing on frontline care. It comes after thousands of junior doctors carried out a five-day walkout, after talks between the Government and British Medical Association (BMA) soured over a dispute about pay. The BMA is demanding a 29.2per cent pay rise. The NHS said many staff events are run at 'no or very low cost', but said it was 'important that care is taken to ensure it represents good value for taxpayers money. Pictured: NHS staff at London Pride in 2019 Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice accused the NHS of 'wasteful spending on pointless woke activities and a bloated middle management' Tory shadow health secretary Stuart Andrew said taxpayer's cash should not be spent on splashing hundreds of thousands of pounds on sideshows and distractions More than 1,000 events were held by staff networks between 2022 and 2024, the FOI revealed, at 80 trusts. In total, 1,834,005.6 was provided to the networks in funding, but it is not clear how much was actually spent over the period. Joanna Marchong, investigations campaign manager of the TPA, said: Taxpayers will be dismayed to see NHS trusts pouring more money into staff networks year after year, while waiting lists spiral and junior doctors strike over pay. With patients on waiting lists, it's astonishing to see staff spending their working hours at open mic nights and summer picnics. There is a time and a place for staff engagement and with resident doctors walking out and the NHS haemorrhaging money, now isnt the time. Ministers must get a grip and put patients before perks. Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice told the Mail: Herein lies the problem with our NHS: wasteful spending on pointless woke activities and a bloated middle management, meanwhile frontline services are left underfunded and struggling. Reform UK would cut waste and unnecessary management, as well as purposeless DEI initiatives, and pump every penny straight into frontline care where it belongs. Tory shadow health secretary Stuart Andrew said the figures were alarming, adding: The first priority of the NHS should be to deliver the best possible outcomes for patients, and taxpayer's cash should be spent on improving that - not splashing hundreds of thousands of pounds on sideshows and distractions. The Conservatives - under Kemi Badenoch's leadership - are the only party that are serious about delivering the reform the NHS needs, from our common sense proposals to ban doctors from striking, to pushing for improvements in productivity and innovation. [must keep] An NHS spokesman said: Staff networks can play an important role in retaining staff and reducing absenteeism, improving care and savings costs. Many staff events including ones highlighted here are run at no or very low cost, but where employers do invest in staff it is important that care is taken to ensure it represents good value for taxpayers money. NHS England describes staff networks as an important mechanism to help us to shape our organisational culture to create a fairer and inclusive work environments for all. Many NHS trusts have staff networks representing those who are BAME (Black, Asian, and minority ethnic), LGBT+, women, or who have a particular religion or belief. A besotted prison officer who smuggled more than 35,000-worth of synthetic drugs into jail for a convicted gangster she'd fallen in love with has been jailed for three-and-a-half years. Olivia Johnson was caught with over 35,000-worth of the synthetic drug 'spice' during a random search of staff entering HMP Highpoint in Suffolk in September 2022. Further investigation discovered she was having an intimate relationship with gangster Javelle Taylor, who was serving a 12-year sentence for firearms offences and that she received 11 separate payments totalling 14,871 from Taylor's friends and family. The 27-year-old from Rotherham broke down in tears as the judge, the Recorder Richard Christie KC, told Johnson that her crimes 'strike at the heart of the integrity of the criminal justice system'. Passing sentence, He said: 'As the pre-sentence report put it, the trafficking into the prison and the subsequent use of drugs and mobile telephones in prison undermines the good order and discipline of the establishment, impacts on the health and safety of prisoners, staff and visitors. 'It undermines rehabilitation of prisoners and supports ongoing criminality, both within the prison and external to the prison. 'These are sentiments with which I wholeheartedly agree. 'You both took drugs into the prison and formed a relationship with the prisoner, Javelle Taylor. He was in prison for serious offences.' Olivia Johnson was caught with over 35,000-worth of the synthetic drug 'spice' during a random search of staff entering HMP Highpoint in Suffolk in September 2022 The 27-year-old from Rotherham broke down in tears as the judge, the Recorder Richard Christie KC, told Johnson that her crimes 'strike at the heart of the integrity of the criminal justice system' He added: 'You put the lives of prison officers and prisoners at risk by taking those drugs into prison.' Johnson had worked at HMP Highpoint for three years before being caught smuggling drugs in a random spot check on September 23, 2022. Earlier Ipswich Crown Court heard how Johnson tried to turn around and leave the jail when she became aware that staff were being searched. Prosecuting Counsel Steven Ball told the court: 'The defendant, Ms Johnson, was previously a prison officer at HMP Highpoint. 'On 23 September 2022, staff at HMP Highpoint were conducting an operation which involved searching staff members upon their arrival for any prohibited items. 'At around 7:30am, Ms Johnson attempted to turn around and walk back through the entrance, so as to exit the search area. 'Ms Johnson said that she needed the toilet. Ms Johnson was not allowed to go to the toilet, after which Ms Johnson again attempted to turn around. 'The prison manager then took Ms Johnson to speak with the governor, Ms Amanda Vickers. Johnson had worked at HMP Highpoint for three years before being caught smuggling drugs in a random spot check on September 23, 2022 Earlier Ipswich Crown Court heard how Johnson tried to turn around and leave the jail when she became aware that staff were being searched 'Ms Vickers asked Ms Johnson if she had anything on her person which she shouldn't have, and Ms Johnson confirmed that she had something in her bag. 'Ms Johnson was then taken to a separate searching area, and within Ms Johnson's bag, a large brown A4 envelope was found. 'Within the envelope were approximately 100 sheets of spiced substance paper. 'Ms Johnson was asked what the paper was and she said that she didn't know, but when it was suggested that this was spice paper she said, "Yes I think so." 'Forensic testing of this paper demonstrates that 88 sheets of the paper were stained with a synthetic cannabinoid. 'As one sheet of this paper is said to be worth 400, the total value of the drugs seized is 35,200.' Mr Ball told the court that a search of Johnson's car led to the discovery of a mobile phone which had made a large number of text messages with inmate Javelle Taylor, in which she said she loved him and the pair discussed bringing contraband into the jail. He said: 'Ms Johnson was taken to Bury St Edmunds Police Station where she was interviewed. Mr Ball told the court that a search of Johnson's car led to the discovery of a mobile phone which had made a large number of text messages with inmate Javelle Taylor, in which she said she loved him and the pair discussed bringing contraband into the jail 'A download of the iPhone recovered from Ms Johnson's vehicle was taken; of note is a conversation between Ms Johnson and a contact, "J". 'It is suggested that this was an inmate at HMP Highpoint by the name of Javelle Taylor.' Further investigations revealed that Johnson had received 'suspicious payments in excess of 14,000.' Mr Ball told the court: 'An investigation into Ms Johnson's bank accounts shows a large number of suspicious payments being made to Ms Johnson. 'Between 1 December 2021 and 5 August 2022, 11 payments totalling 14,461 were made into Ms Johnson's account by Teagan Turton. 'Between 6 January 2022 and 1 March 2022, two further payments totalling 410 were made by Deevorn Miller. PC Fox noted that "Deevorn Miller" is listed on Mr Taylor's prison contacts list as his "cousin" and "friend".' Johnson, who was smart black trousers, a black t-shirt, a grey patterned jacket and black loafer shoes, stared blankly ahead of herself as the facts of the case were read out in court. Her defence counsel Mr Jimmy Ogunshakin told the court that Johnson had been 'young and naive' at the time of the crimes and was 'very, very sorry' for what she had done. Further investigations revealed that Johnson had received 'suspicious payments in excess of 14,000.' He told the court: 'This was a young woman aged 22, in her first job and she found herself in a sticky situation. 'Certainly she lost her way, and for that she is very, very sorry.' At a hearing Johnson, 27, admitted one charge of committing misconduct in a public office 'by forming a relationship with an inmate' and bringing drugs into HMP Highpoint in Suffolk into exchange for money, at hearing at Ipswich Crown Court last month. She also admitted being in possession of criminal property in the form of 14,871 and to conspiring to bring Class B drugs into the prison. The offences took place between December 2021 and September 2022. The Category C prison has held a number of famous inmates in the past, such as horse racing legend Lester Piggot and international pop stars George Michael and Boy George. Other well-known former inmates have included shotgun farmer Tony Martin who killed a teenage burglar and Amy Winehouse's ex-husband Blake Fielder-Civil. Moors murderer Myra Hindley was also held at the prison at the time of her death in 2002, when part of it was a women's jail. At a hearing Johnson, 27, admitted one charge of committing misconduct in a public office 'by forming a relationship with an inmate' and bringing drugs into HMP Highpoint in Suffolk into exchange for money, at hearing at Ipswich Crown Court last month Johnson' conviction is the latest prison officer to be jailed for having an inappropriate relationship with an inmate. Former officer Linda de Soussa Abreu was sentenced to 15 months in January this year for having sex with serial burglar Linton Weirich in his prison cell at HMP Wandsworth. Katie Evans, 26, embarked on an illicit romance with inmate Daniel Brownley while working at HMP Doncaster, calling herself his 'queen' as she lavished him with attention. The mother-of-one, who was jailed for 21 months in March, boasted about sex acts on the criminal and collecting drugs cash on his behalf. Her criminal behaviour was exposed during an anti-corruption investigation into another crooked guard at the category B jail. Morgan Farr Varney, 24, was this month locked up for ten months after being caught slipping into a cupboard with a prisoner while working at HMP Lindholme in South Yorkshire. She became besotted with crack cocaine dealer Jordan Stones, 30, who pinned racy snaps of his prison officer lover to his cell walls. Cherrie-Ann Saddington, 29 smuggled a Calpol syringe into jail to artificially inseminate herself with a prisoner's sperm. The shamed officer became obsessed with convicted sex offender Bradley Trengrove after he was moved to HMP The Verne in Dorset. The female prison warden told Trengrove she was pregnant in November 2022, although she later miscarried after eight weeks. She was spared jail by a judge in May after being left in a wheelchair from a spinal stroke. The goal of any campaign launch is to generate attention, but as one GOP candidate has learned in the past twenty-four hours, not all of it is good. Mike Collins, a Republican Congressman representing Georgia's 10th District, announced Monday that he would be running in 2026 to flip the U.S. Senate seat presently held by Democrat John Ossoff. But, X users were quick to notice a glaring error in a political advertisement posted to kick off Collins' campaign. 'Georiga, let's ride' the ad posted to X by the Mike Collins War Room account reads including a glaring misspelling of the state of 'Georgia.' Social media users were quick to pounce on the 58-year-old Senate hopeful's mistake. 'If you're running for the Senate, at the very least, you should be able to spell the name of the state you're running in, don't you think, Mike Collins?' wrote an X user posting under the handle of @OldGuyRant2. Another X user posting under the handle @jsmurray wrote 'If you can't spell Georgia, you definitely can't represent it. Spellcheck ain't gonna save you now, Mike.' X User @DocLanceP simply wrote, 'Bro, hire a copy editor.' Despite the error, Collins' campaign touted over $220,000 raised in the first 12 hours of his entry into the race. Rep. Mike Collins, R-Ga., leaves a meeting of the House Republican Conference at the Capitol Hill Club on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 Mike Collins is ready to put the hammer down and get it done. pic.twitter.com/lgmJcHBd9k Mike Collins War Room (@TeamOverhaulGA) July 27, 2025 GEORIGA From Mike Collins War Room Me too re fav tweets. God bless Mike & his war room. And lets put that hammer down and get it done. https://t.co/uSgcBetLv8 Jill the Pill! (@JillPinoak) July 29, 2025 Collins is a key Trump ally in the House of Representatives who has made a name for himself as a top social media troll, but has also helped pass legitimate legislation. The Georgia Representative was an author of the Laken Riley Act, a bill signed into law by Trump earlier this year. The legislation is named after a former nursing student at Augusta University who was murdered at the age of 22 by an illegal alien with a prior criminal record. The incident occurred in Collins' congressional district. The Laken Riley Act requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to detain illegal immigrants who have been arrested for burglary, theft, larceny, or shoplifting. The bill also authorizes states to sue the federal government for decisions or alleged failures related to immigration enforcement. Audio of Collins being praised by Trump for his work on the bill is also included in the campaign ad. 'Georiga, let's ride' the ad posted to X by the Mike Collins War Room account reads, including a glaring misspelling of the state of 'Georgia' 'Congressman Mike Collins. Mike, you were fantastic. He loves his state, and he took this very personally,' Trump can be heard saying about the bill in an audio excerpt included in the campaign launch video. Prior to being elected to Congress, Collins built a trucking business, which he is still involved in. His trucking background is featured heavily in his initial campaign ad. Collins is the second GOP congressman to enter the GOP primary field for the Senate seat, joining Representative Buddy Carter who represents the Savannah area. Both members are considered to be close with Trump. The Cook Political Report ranks the 2026 Senate race in Georgia as a 'Toss-Up.' Trump flipped Georgia back into the GOP column when he took home the state's 16 electoral college votes last November. Both of the U.S. Senate seats for the state are presently held by Democrats. A star of RuPaul's Drag Race UK was reportedly assaulted in a homophobic attack at a Tesco store in London. Drag performer Pixie Polite, who came fifth in the fourth series of the show in 2022, claimed they were punched in the back to the head and neck by a man inside the supermarket on Monday evening. What began as 'general comments and mocking' descended into 'verbal homophobic abuse, then into violence', the 32-year-old wrote on Instagram. The star was taken to hospital with a suspected concussion and was examined by doctors, who found their symptoms were 'conducive with a general head injury'. Pixie, whose given name is Mark James Dudley Wickens, told followers they were 'pretty much fine', but still felt a 'little groggy' in a post this morning. The Metropolitan Police has since launched a probe into the attack, which is being treated as a 'hate crime'. No arrests have yet been made, although Pixie claimed to have taken a photo of their alleged assaulter, with the incident also being caught on CCTV. Pixie now being supported by officers and said that police had been 'surprisingly great' in dealing with the attack. RuPaul 's Drag Race UK star Pixie Polite (pictured) was reportedly assaulted in a homophobic attack at a Tesco store in London The drag performer claimed they were punched in the back to the head and neck on Monday evening. They later shared an image of themselves outside hospital saying they had symptoms 'conducive to a general head injury' The alleged assault took place inside a Tesco Express on High Street Colliers Wood, Merton A Met Police spokesperson said: 'At 18:10hrs on Monday, 28 July officers responded to reports of assault and verbal abuse inside a shop on High Street Colliers Wood, Merton. 'Police spoke with one victim, a person in their 30s. An investigation has been launched and the incident is being treated as a hate crime. 'Enquiries are ongoing. At this stage no arrests have been made. 'The victim is being supported by officers. We understand the impact this will have had on the LGBTQ+ community. 'If you have any concerns please speak to a local police officer.' The force appealed for anyone with information about the incident that might help police with this investigation to call 101 referencing CAD 5855/28JUL. To remain completely anonymous you can also call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org. French police officers have been spotted idly watching on as a group of migrants attempted to cross the Channel in a small boat. A group of cops, decked out in full riot gear including helmets, shields and batons, seemingly stood by as people boarded a smuggler's inflatable dinghy on Gravelines beach in northern France earlier today. Shockingly, one officer even appeared to be taking a selfie moments after the boat set sail towards the English coast. As the sun begins to set, the officers then saunter off just as another group wearing fluorescent life jackets and carrying bags start making their way to the water's edge. French President Emmanuel Macron had promised a tougher approach to cracking down on small boat crossings to the UK following a three-day state visit to the country earlier this month. But police patrolling the French coast do not appear to be upholding the same sentiment. Earlier this month officers again appeared to make zero effort to stop one boat packed with migrants as they were instead seen handing out lifejackets to those on board before it motored off. Nearly 24,000 small boat migrants have arrived in the UK so far this year - sparking further condemnation towards Prime Minister Keir Starmer after he vowed to tackle smuggling gangs in the Labour's General Election manifesto. French police officers have been spotted idly watching on as a group of migrants attempted to cross the Channel in a small boat The group of cops were decked out in full riot gear including helmets, shields and batons as they stood to watch people board a smuggler's inflatable dinghy on Gravelines beach Migrants try to board a smuggler's inflatable dinghy in an attempt to cross the English Channel off the beach of Gravelines, northern France, on Monday Last week it was revealed that officials are now planning to use AI to check migrants' ages after shocking figures showed four out of 10 who claimed to be children were lying. The Home Office last week announced testing on new technology will begin later this year with the hope it could be fully integrated into the asylum system in 2026. There have long been fears that some of those who cross the Channel in small boats - who often don't carry official documents such as passports - are wrongly claiming to be children. Unaccompanied minors are more likely to be granted asylum than adults, with some suspected to be faking their ages in a bid to boost their chances of staying in the UK. Home Office figures show that between mid-2022 and June 2024, 11,449 age disputes were raised by UK Border Force staff. Some 8,791 were resolved with 3,570 - amounting to 40 per cent - having lied about being under 18. A staggering 1,305 of those caught lying about their age were from Afghanistan, in a bid to get special protection in the UK. Child refugees cannot be deported and have the right to the same healthcare, education and sustenance as British children. One officer even appeared to be taking a selfie moments after the boat set sail towards the English coast French police officers stand on Gravelines beach as migrants board a smuggler's inflatable dinghy on Tuesday The officers then saunter off just as another group wearing fluorescent life jackets and carrying bags start making their way to the water's edge French police officers inspect a migrant trying to board a smuggler's inflatable dinghy off the coast of Gravelines earlier today French police officers patrol to prevent migrants from boarding a smuggler's inflatable dinghy along Gravelines beach A French police officers carries a migrant's jacket during a patrol on Gravelines beach Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. It comes as the number of people per small boat has reached record levels this year, with insiders warning it is 'a matter of time' before one sinks from overcrowding. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is worried about women and children being 'crushed at sea' and told the Daily Mail: 'If you storm a boat, trampling over the bodies of tiny children, you are complicit in putting other people in danger.' She wants to use the new powers in the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill to tackle migrants who overcrowd the dinghies. But critics have suggested the plan was 'pathetic tinkering' that will not make a difference in stemming the flow of illegal migrants to Britain. A Massachusetts woman was savaged by a large raccoon after letting her dogs into her backyard over the weekend. Katharine VanBuskirk, 69, of Somerville, suffered horrific injuries to her arms, legs and face after the ordeal on Saturday morning. She had just let her two dogs, Blue, a three-year-old black cocker spaniel, and Rubi, a one-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel, outside when the animal lunged at her. 'I was almost instantaneously leapt on by a raccoon', she recalled in an interview with the Boston Globe. 'It was a giant ball of viciousness. It bit me and scratched me. It attacked relentlessly, from every angle, it was terrifying', she said. She also described it as 'monstrous' to WCVB. VanBuskirk recently underwent shoulder surgery and had one arm in a sling during the attack. She fought the animal off while screaming: 'Help me!' The feral animal scratched her eyelid and cheek so bad that blood started pouring out of her face. Images of her injuries show VanBuskirk with deep gashes on her left cheek, her arms and legs are also covered in similar marks, with bite marks also visible. Katherine VanBuskirk, seen here, suffered injuries to her face, arms and legs after the attack on Saturday She described the animal which attacked her as being a 'giant ball of viciousness' She managed to free herself and made her way back indoors where she immediately called 911. VanBuskirk was then taken to Mount Auburn Hospital where she was treated with rabies shots and antibiotics. Both of hers dogs escaped unscathed and she is expected to make a full recovery from the attack. She later discovered from a neighbor that they had seen a raccoon with four cubs in the area. VanBuskirk believes the animal was on her back porch looking for food in her compost bin. She has since moved it on to her street. Despite her ordeal, she told NBC Boston that she remains a nature fan, adding: 'I just want other people to be careful. Im gonna never blame the raccoon.' The animals are found all over the state of Massachusetts, except for Nantucket, and are typically active at night, dawn and dusk. According to the state wildlife site, they can carry a number of diseases including rabies. VanBuskirk was taken to Mount Auburn Hospital where she was treated with rabies shots and antibiotics VanBuskirk believes the animal was on her back porch looking for food in her compost bin Nearly all patients who develop a rabies infection die from the disease, which has a death rate of 99.9 percent. Authorities urge anyone bitten by a raccoon to wash the wound before seeking immediate medical care. To limit the risk of contact, homeowners are told to limit the access of food in or near a property. Cayenne pepper is often used as a repellent due to their sensitive noses and a dislike of strong smells. This is the moment a British comic was caught on CCTV leaving a clothes shop without paying - in what she claims was an innocent accident. Comedian Cerys Nelmes, from the Cotswolds, is facing three years behind bars after being accused of shoplifting from a branch of Zara in Istanbul, Turkey on July 22. Ms Nelmes has been banned from leaving the country while police investigate the stores claims - which she said may put her and her son at risk of losing their UK home. Wearing a light blue dress, the footage captures the mother-of-one as she browses around the shop with an armful of clothes on hangers. Since the in-store CCTV is not timestamped, the timeline is not fully clear but in another clip she is seen walking holding a yellow dress. Later footage shows her leaving the store while appearing to be distracted by her phone but with no clothes in hand - having allegedly forgotten that there were 6,000 lira (110) of items in her white backpack. After a quick glance around as she exits, Ms Nelmes stands directly outside the store for several moments while appearing to type or browse on her phone. A Zara staff member eventually approaches and asks her and another woman to go back inside. British comedian Cerys Nelmes (pictured), from the Cotswolds, was arrested after walking out of a Zara store in Turkey without paying - in what she says was an innocent mistake Ms Nelmes claims that after returned to the store she offered to pay, but was instead detained, locked in a room for hours without explanation, and eventually arrested for shoplifting Later footage shows her leaving the store while appearing to be distracted by her phone but with no clothes in hand - and 6,000 lira (110) of items in her white backpack Ms Nelmes and the other woman then return to the store without argument. The comedian claims that she absentmindedly left the store before ringing up her purchases and apologised for her error and offered to pay upon reentering. She later told her social media followers that she was instead detained and locked in a room for hours with no explanation. Ms Nelmes said she was taken to a police station, pressured to sign documents in a language she could not read, and held in a cell for 24 hours with no food, toilet or water. The comic was released by a Turkish judge on probation but has been forbidden from leaving the country. She now says she is stranded in Turkey and missing out on work back home, putting her and her son at risk of losing their UK home. The comedian is now being put up by a local family as she does not have the money for an extended stay. She said: 'I'm ok and have been taken in by a Turkish family who gave me food and a bed.' After she exits, Ms Nelmes stands directly outside the store for several moments while appearing to type or browse on her phone A Zara staff member (right of red circle) eventually approaches and leads Ms Nelmes (blue dress) and another woman (left of red circle) back inside the store Nelmes now says she is stranded in Turkey, unable to afford accommodation and missing out on work back home, but posted on Instgram to say she had been taken in by a Turkish family Ms Nelmes describes herself on her website as a 'leading mc on the comedy circuit' and regularly gigs for the UK military - including being the last comedian to perform for UK troops before they withdrew from Afghanistan. Her acting roles have included Casualty and JK Rowling's The Casual Vacancy. Alongside her comedy performances, she also made headlines in April 2019 when she saved a fellow diner from choking at a restaurant before a gig. The comedian was grabbing a bite to eat in Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, when she peformed the Heimlich manoeuvre to dislodge a prawn that was stuck in a woman's throat. In a post on social media speaking about her detention and subsequent stranding in Turkey, she said: 'On Tuesday I left a Zara store in Istanbul without paying for items. 'I returned straight away and handed the items to staff. I was asked to pay and I said I would and the manager accepted this. 'To cut a long story short I was then taken to a locked room where hours later after no communication from anyone I was taken away by police and held in a police station and was asked to sign things I couldn't read. The police investigation is ongoing. Ms Nelmes was arrested after being accused of stealing items from clothing store Zara in Instanbul (file photo, not store mentioned in story) Ms Nelmes describes herself on her website as a 'leading mc on the comedy circuit' and regularly gigs for the UK military - including being the last comedian to perform for UK troops before they withdrew from Afghanistan 'I was put in a prison cell for 24 hours with no food or toilet facilities. When I asked for water, I was told they didn't understand me. 'I was handcuffed and taken for fingerprints and mugshots at 3am. I was handcuffed and taken to court the following day and put in a cell. 'I appeared before the judge and was told by a translator that I was released, but unable to leave Turkey for an undetermined amount of time. 'He said I was lucky to not be put in prison but I currently face up to three years. I have to report to a local police station every Monday. 'I am lucky I have good friends in Turkey who are currently looking after me, and trying to translate the paperwork. 'I have no money, no earnings coming in from home, and I am running out of important medication. I will lose my home which I share with my son, and livelihood. 'I am not looking for sympathy. I made a mistake which I tried to immediately rectify. I am embarrassed for my friends, my family, and I have made my 78-year-old mum unwell. I will never forgive myself for what I have done.' An Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office spokesperson said: 'We are providing support to a British national in Turkey.' Zara has been contacted for comment. Knife offences in London have increased by 86 per cent in a decade, a shocking report has found. Londons iconic West End has more knife crime than almost 15 per cent of the rest of the capital combined, according to research from the Policy Exchange. Just five per cent of robberies and 0.6 per cent of theft from person crimes in London were solved last year, the research titled Your Money or Your Life: Londons Knife Crime, Robbery and Street Theft Epidemic found. The reports author, ex-Scotland Yard detective chief inspector David Spencer, said his former force must take an unequivocal crime fighting first approach to save the city from a knife, robbery and theft epidemic. Knife offences across the country have increased by 78 per cent since 2014, but Mr Spencer said these figures had been skewed by the scale of the issue in the capital, where there were 16,879 knife crimes last year alone - about a third of the total across England and Wales. The report points out that this coincides broadly with the mayoralty of Sir Sadiq Khan, who was this week publicly criticised by US president Donald Trump, who claimed he had done a 'terrible job.' Sir Sadiq, who was knighted in June, has won the Mayoral elections three times since 2016. The Policy Exchange report claims that since the pandemic knife crime has risen year on year throughout his tenure, with separate figures indicating a nine per cent rise in the past year. A spokesman for the Mayor said murders, gun crime with lethal barrel discharges, knife crime with injury and burglary are all down since 2016 and last year teen murders were the lowest they had been for a decade. The Policy Exchange report points out that since the pandemic the number of knife crime offences has risen year on year under Sir Sadiq US President Donald Trump (right) said this week that Sir Sadiq had done a 'terrible job' as Mayor of London But the reports author Mr Spencer said: A cosy consensus between police chiefs and political leaders has led to a collapse in proactive policing in particular stop and search rates allowing the streets to be surrendered to thugs, robbers and thieves. The Metropolitan Police said there had been a recent dip in knife crimes between April and May, while personal robbery was down 12.8 per cent in a year. The report made 17 recommendations, including that the capitals top 20 knife crime hotspots should have enhanced zero tolerance enforcement, with extra officers tasked with conducting high volumes of stop and search. The number of searches has dropped by 56.4 per cent since 2022, from 311,352 annually to 135,739, the report states. And the paper argues that contrary to criticism, the controversial practice is not deployed in a racist way and reflected the proportion of the capital charged with serious crimes. The report stated that 39.5 per cent of those stopped and searched were black, while 43.6 per cent of people charged with murder and 45.6 per cent of victims stabbed to death were. The police are merely responding to the demographic breakdown of serious and violent offending in the capital, the report argued. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said he supported the zero tolerance approach, which he understood would require a combination of clear policy, political will and savvy operational policing to implement. Londons iconic West End, including Leicester Square (pictured) has more knife crime than almost 15 per cent of the rest of the capital combined Police chiefs have called on Apple and Google to prevent stolen mobile phones being able to connect with cloud services, which would render them useless to thieves, as 80,000 devices are snatched a year in the capital It also requires policing and political leaders to put public safety ahead of ideological dogma on issues such as stop and search, he added. The report also called on the Government to force Apple and Google to prevent stolen mobile phones being able to connect with cloud services, which would render them useless to thieves. The Mail revealed on Saturday that traditional county lines gangs are turning to stealing phones over dealing drugs because unprecedented demand from overseas is creating a booming 70million black market. The report also highlighted that hyper-prolific offenders across Britain with 46 or more previous convictions are sent to prison on less than half of occasions after they are convicted again. It recommended the Government should make immediate two-year custodial sentences mandatory for all such offenders upon conviction of a further offence. Labour MP and former Metropolitan Police inspector Jonathan Hinder said the criminal justice system had been left broken, and there was an urgent need to properly resource courts and prisons to restore public faith. In the meantime, the law-abiding public want a strong police force to have the confidence to take on criminals, and its time for politicians of all colours to give the police their full backing to do just that, he added. Sir Sadiq, who was knighted in June, is in his third term as London's Mayor A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: We are putting more officers in neighbourhoods than ever before, using our stop and search powers to taking thousands of weapons off the street 17,500 over the past four years - and utilising new technology and data-driven tactics including focussing on the highest harm hotspots to bring offenders to justice and drive down violent crime. We are also arresting more than 1,000 more criminals each month thanks to the hard work of our officers. Our approach is having success - this financial year, knife-related crime is down by 16 per cent, there has 12.8 per cent reduction in robbery offences and homicide is at a five year low. This report repeats the calls that we have previously made for reform of the justice system and the collaboration of partners like major mobile phone producers. We all know that reducing knife crime requires a whole of society effort and we will support any initiative that seeks to make this happen. A spokesman for the Mayor of London said: The latest ONS stats also show that overall, the violent crime with injury rate is lower in London than in the rest of England and Wales. Record funding from the Mayor and an enhanced approach to neighbourhood policing in the West End has led to personal robberies falling by 20 per cent and violence with injury reducing by 25 per cent in the last year. The Mayor is determined to build on this progress his record 1.16bn funding has secured 935 police officers and he has worked closely with the Commissioner to increase the number of police officers on the beat in the West End, plus additional police officers working in new or enhanced town centre teams in hotspot areas. Despite years of austerity by the previous government, this is the latest example of the Met Police and Mayor prioritising what Londoners want and delivering on their pledge to put high visibility policing at the heart of fighting crime and rebuilding community confidence and trust. The minute of surveillance video allegedly 'missing' from the footage of the night Jeffrey Epstein was found dead in his prison cell has apparently been found. A source familiar with the investigation told the Daily Mail that the FBI and DOJ are both in possession of the minute of video that the agencies previously said was not there because of a tape transition that occurred automatically every night. The Justice Department released earlier this month nearly 11 hours of surveillance footage of the area of the prison leading to Epstein's cell the night he died. It was meant to prove that no one went towards the convicted child sex offender that night as conspiracies raged that Epstein was murdered to prevent him from spilling secrets about high-profile co-conspirators. Sleuths quickly found there was a oneminute gap in the footage overnight from August 9 to August 10, 2019, which only led to more speculation that a cover-up was underway. The time code on the screen jumped forward one-minute just before midnight. When the video was released earlier this month, it was described as 'raw' footage. Attorney General Pam Bondi was questioned about the video in a July 8 Cabinet meeting, and she claimed the Bureau of Prisons told her it was an antiquated process that happened every night when the tapes automatically reset. Now it's revealed the FBI is in possession of a version of the video that includes the missing minute. The one-minute of 'missing video' from the prison footage outside Jeffrey Epstein's cell the night he died has been found There was jump in one-minute right before midnight in the 11-hours of footage the the DOJ and FBI released earlier this month leading to even more speculation of a 'cover-up' It's unclear why the section was missing when the video was released earlier in July or what is in the video that wasn't previously shown. And there are still questions swirling over whether the Justice Department will decide to release the found minute. Bondi has taken much of the brunt of the criticism over the administration's handling of the Epstein files over the last month. In an unsigned joint memo made public on July 6, the DOJ and FBI claimed a months-long review of the files found that the disgraced financier and sex offender was not murdered in his cell. It also concluded that there was no so-called 'client list' of co-conspirators and said that no one else would be charged in relation to his crimes. The drop of non-information did include making public for the first time the video showing a man they claim was Epstein being escorted to his jail cell the night of August 9, 2019. The video is blurry and a staircase hand railing prevents a clear view of the person being escorted by prison guard to his cell. It did show that no one went in the direction of his unit until prison staff was seen bringing breakfast to his room the morning of August 10, 2019 but instead found him dead in his cell with sheets around his neck. It's now revealed that the DOJ and FBI are in possession of the missing minute of video Original coroner reports concluded that Epstein committed suicide and the most recent DOJ review backed up that finding. Multiple officials say that the surveillance footage is a key piece of evidence proving that Epstein did die by suicide. Bondi said this month that the Justice Department would share other videos that showed the same one-minute reset happened every night at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York City. No such video has been released and Epstein's death continues to be fodder for conspiracy theories. A German zoo has sparked condemnation after culling 12 baboons amid fears the group had grown too large for their enclosure, while contraception had failed to stop the primates from breeding. Nuremberg Zoo first announced plans to kill a number of baboons it did not have space for in February 2024. Zoo officials said that they had examined offers to take in some of the animals, but they were unable to make any of them work. Director Dag Encke said previously that the 'sensible' plan to kill off nearly half of the baboon population in the zoo would help 'ensure the survival' of the species. The zoo had been housing 43 Guinea baboons in an enclosure, built in the late 2000s, that had originally intended to accommodate 25 animals plus their young. Officials argued that a lack of space resulted in additional stress for the primates and more arguments between these otherwise social animals, which increasingly ended in blood. But the decision to cull the animals drew the ire of animal rights protesters, who were seen on Tuesday afternoon forcing their way into the zoo, which announced it was closed for the day for unspecified 'operational reasons.' Some of the activists were arrested by police after they glued themselves to the ground in protest. Animal rights activists gathered outside Nuremberg Zoo on Tuesday as officials proceeded with plans to cull 12 baboons Nuremberg Zoo first announced plans to kill a number of baboons it did not have space for in February 2024. Pictured: Signs indicated on Tuesday that the zoo was closed Guinea baboons are classified as endangered, but many zoos around the world are now at capacity to take any more of the animals A statement released by the zoo shortly afterwards confirmed that 12 baboons had been killed, German news agency dpa reported. Further details were not immediately available, while animal rights groups said they planned to file a criminal complaint. The International Union for Conservation of Nature classified Guinea baboons as endangered and said they should be kept in zoos for species conservation. Guinea baboons live in protected areas in several West African countries, but because the population there has also surged there was no space to relocate Nuremberg's primates to African countries either, Encke previously explained. Since 2011, 16 baboons had been moved from Nuremberg Zoo to other facilities in Paris and China. Animal rights protesters were seen on Tuesday afternoon forcing their way into the zoo, which announced it was closed for the day for unspecified 'operational reasons' Officials at the zoo argued that a lack of space resulted in additional stress for the primates and more violent arguments between these otherwise social animals But those zoos, and another in Spain to which baboons were previously sent, had reached their own capacity. Animals are regularly euthanised in European zoos for a range of reasons, but have equally provoked anger from animal rights activists. In 2014, Copenhagen Zoo killed a healthy two-year-old giraffe because he was 'surplus to requirements'. Staff then butchered its carcass in front of a crowd that included schoolchildren and fed the dead animal to the lions. An illegal migrant has been accused of shooting dead a teen who tried to stop the Mexican national from raping his mother. Gildardo Amandor-Martinez, 36, allegedly gunned down Luis Lopez, 15, after the brave boy heard his mother crying for help from the bedroom of their Morehead, Kentucky home on July 20. She had been trying to fight off her boyfriend Martinez after he returned from a bar and tried to have sex with her, according to court documents obtained by the Lexington Herald Leader. Luis entered the room upon hearing the commotion and asked his mother - who sustained bite marks and other injuries from the attack - if he should call the cops. Martinez, allegedly naked on top of the horrified woman, told the boy to get out before he appeared to be leaving the apartment himself at around 2.30am. But on his way out, Martinez fired a pistol through the bedroom door three times - striking Luis and his young sister, Naomi, 3. The mother allegedly escaped from the house with her one-year-old, who she shares with Martinez, before realizing her three-year-old was still inside. She ran back to the home and shouted for Naomi to run, she told police, adding that she heard more bullets ring as she sprinted away. Luis Lopez (pictured), 15, was killed after he tried to defend his mother from being raped Gildardo Amandor-Martinez (pictured), 36, has been charged with murder, first degree assault and first-degree attempted rape The mother was laying in bed with the baby she has with Martinez when he returned home demanding sex, Fox 56 reported. Cops arrived at the residence and immediately declared Luis, who had been shot in the face, dead. His sister was taken to a nearby hospital for her injuries. She is in critical condition. Martinez ran from the home and was tracked down by authorities roughly 12 hours later and charged with murder, first degree assault and first-degree attempted rape. On July 23, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced ICE pursued an arrest detainer against Martinez. ICE detainers are 'legal requests to state or local law enforcement to hold illegal aliens in custody until they can be turned over to immigration authorities,' according to the DHS. The agency also revealed Martinez is a 'criminal illegal alien from Mexico [who] attempted to enter the country THREE times under the Biden administration in 2021.' On his third try, Martinez finally entered the US through the Southern border, but the date of his entry remains unclear. Cops arrived at the residence (pictured) and immediately declared Luis, who had been shot in the face, dead '15-year-old Luis Lopez died trying to save his mother from this criminal illegal alien who was attempting to rape her,' Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said. 'Gildardo Amandor-Martinez is a rapist and cold-blooded killer who should have never been in this country. 'The Biden administrations open-border policies allowed this monster to walk American streets and commit these evil crimes, including murder, assault, and attempted rape, against a mother and her children.' Luis attended Rowan County Senior High School, where he would have been a sophomore in the fall. School officials described Luis as a 'sweet student.' A fundraiser through DOVES of Gateway, a shelter that helps domestic violence victims, has been organized to support the devastated family. The shelter partnered with Citizens Bank to create the Nunez Family Memorial Fund for funeral expenses for Luis. 'We grieve alongside the Nunez family and stand with them in this time of heartbreak,' the shelter said in a Facebook post. Tributes from heartbroken relatives, loved ones and mothers empathizing with Luis's mom's pain have poured in on social media. Luis (pictured) attended Rowan County Senior High School, where he would have been a sophomore in the fall. School officials described Luis a 'sweet student' 'When one momma cries, we all cry,' one woman, Kylie Burks, wrote. 'That woman always has a smile on her face and her world just shattered. 'This child died a hero and deserves all the love. My heart is broken for this family.' His aunt also shared a tear-jerking tribute on Facebook, writing: 'My boy I love you, my heart is broken because you are gone.' Luis' family declined Daily Mail's request for comment. A Jewish comedian who claimed he was axed by an Edinburgh Fringe venue over his views on Gaza has won the support of a leading KC. Former SNP MP Joanna Cherry backed Philip Simon, who had planned to perform his stand-up show Shall I Compare Thee in a Funny Way at the capitals Banshee Labyrinth. But the comic announced in an online post that the venue has informed him it cancelled his show as his views on the crisis in Gaza are in significant conflict with its stance against the current Israeli governments policy and actions. It comes just days after another venue, Whistlebinkies, axed his Jew-O-Rama compilation show and another performance by fellow Jewish comedian Rachel Creeger due to concerns over staff safety. Writing on social media website X, KC Joanna Cherry, a former SNP MP, said: Its not ok for Fringe venues to cancel bookings for Jewish comedians because their staff allegedly feel unsafe. Racial and belief discrimination is unlawful. In 2023, the outspoken former MPs event at The Stand Comedy Club in Edinburgh was initially cancelled after staff claimed they were not comfortable with her stance on transgender issues. She said she had been dropped for being a lesbian with gender-critical views. Philip Simon was told his views on the crisis in Gaza are in significant conflict with a comedy venue's stance against the current Israeli governments policy and actions The club, owned by former SNP MP Tommy Sheppard, backed down and reinstated her show after Ms Cherry began legal action over its unlawful and discriminatory decision. The Stand said it accept that the previous decision that the event could not go ahead was unfair and constituted unlawful discrimination against Ms Cherry. Yesterday Ms Cherry posted a link to the legal opinion which she said helped me fight my own cancellation two years ago. Ms Cherry and the Banshee Labyrinth were contacted for comment. Earlier this week, Mr Simon said: Anyone who knows me will know I have never expressed support for anything other than freeing the hostages and finding a way for peace. It is sad to think that these views could conflict with anyone who wants to see a lasting peace in Gaza and Israel. As a Jewish person living in Britain it is possible, and increasingly common, to have a love for Israel without supporting the actions of the government. He added he was still processing the concept that in 2025 I can be cancelled just for being Jewish. The stand-up comic says he will still be at the festival for his one remaining childrens show and is continuing to seek alternative venues for both his cancelled gigs. And he urged any comics considering snubbing the venues not to do anything to jeopardise your own shows. He said: If you are going to Edinburgh....please do not boycott these venues, they are hosting some incredible acts who I wouldnt want to suffer negatively because of this. In a message to Mr Simon, the Banshee Labyrinth is reported to have said it felt it was inappropriate for us to provide a platform for performers whose views and actions align with the rhetoric and symbology of groups associated with humanitarian violations. The venue told The Telegraph newspaper that it made its decision after scouring Mr Simons social media pages. The alleged concerns identified by the Banshee Labyrinth are reported to include Mr Simon sharing pictures from a vigil commemorating 100 days since the attack on Israel. Joanna Cherry KC spoke out against Mr Philip's show being cancelled, pointing out that 'racial and belief discrimination is unlawful' The Edinburgh Festival Fridge Society said it stands for freedom of expression but that it does not manage or programme venues at the festival. A spokesman added: We understand that the show cancellations have been a choice made by the venue. The Banshee Labyrinth said it routinely screens bands and performers for affiliations to, and statements that advocate for, discriminatory groups, and our band bookings are caveated by a statement that any acts displaying rhetoric or symbology associated with discriminatory groups will be pulled with immediate effect. This applies to all performers, all year. It said: We have hosted Philip in previous years, and only thought we should have a look at his pages to see what was going on because of what happened with the neighbouring venue. If we hadnt found anything of concern, he would obviously still be performing with us. A spokesman for the venue said: Due to the recent controversy [Philips show being pulled from our neighbouring pub], our management had a duty of care to our customers and staff members to review the political statements and opinions expressed by the performer. We feel it is inappropriate for us to provide a platform for performers whose views and actions align with the rhetoric and symbology of groups associated with humanitarian violations. President Donald Trump on Tuesday charged that Jeffrey Epstein 'stole' Virginia Giuffre and several other young female workers at Mar-a-Lago's spa, leading to their falling out. 'She worked at the spa,' Trump noted of Giuffre. And he added of Epstein: 'He stole her.' Trump told Daily Mail on Monday that he fell out with Epstein because the financer poached many of his Mar-a-Lago staff. But he's now offered more details about what happened between the two men. 'Everyone knows the people that were taken,' he told reporters on Air Force One on his way back from a five-day trip to Scotland. 'People were taken out of the spa hired by him.' Trump went on to say: 'I didn't know that. And then when I heard about it, I told him, I said, Listen, we don't want you taking our people, whether it was spa or not spa. I don't want to taking people. And he was fine. And then not too long after that, he did it again. And I said, out of here.' Giuffre said she was recruited by Ghislaine Maxwell to Epstein's sex ring in 2000, when she was 16 years old and working as a locker room attendant at the spa at Mar-a-Lago. Before her death earlier this year, Giuffre was one of the most prominent and vocal accusers of Epstein and Maxwell. Virginia Roberts Giuffre was 16 years old when she was recruited by Ghislaine Maxwell from the spa at Mar-a-Lago to work for Jeffrey Epstein Trump noted Giuffre had nothing bad to say about her time working for his Palm Beach Club. 'She had no complaints about us, as you know, none whatsoever,' he pointed out. Trump banned Epstein from his Mar-a-Lago Club in 2004 but, before that time, both Epstein and Maxwell were photographed partying at the Palm Beach social club including with Trump's then girlfriend Melania Trump. The president has offered a variety of reasons for his disassociation with Epstein, who died in a New York prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. He previously said he cut off contact with Epstein because he was a 'creep.' Other reports say the two men fell out over an oceanfront Palm Beach property that was being sold out of bankruptcy that each man wanted. Giuffre, who claimed she was passed around as a teenager to rich and powerful predators, died in April by suicide, according to a statement by the family. But conspiracy theories continue to swirl around both her and Epstein's deaths. Trump's MAGA loyalists have questioned if the deaths were suicide or murder in order to keep them silenced. Additionally, the MAGA grew have long believed there is a list of rich and powerful people for whom Epstein is alleged to have trafficked young girls and it's fueled their feverish calls for the Department of Justice to release files around the case. The lack of new information has been a source of frustration for both them and the president, who cannot escape questions on the matter. President Donald Trump admitted that his falling out with Jeffrey Epstein took place after the billionaire pedophile 'stole workers' from his Mar-a-Lago club in the early 2000s Donald Trump with then-girlfriend and future wife Melania Knauss, financier Jeffrey Epstein, and British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell at the Mar-a-Lago club in February 2000 Virginia Giuffre, seen above in 2019, became one of Epstein's most well-known accusers Questions about Epstein and queries about his relationship with the notorious financer followed Trump from the United States to his trip to Scotland. The queries come as Maxwell met with Justice Department officials last week to discuss the case. She is also scheduled to testify before Congress on August 11th but her lawyer asked for immunity in exchange for her testimony. Lawmakers denied the request, however. Maxwell is serving 20 years in prison for her involvement in Epstein's sordid crimes. She was convicted in 2021 on five counts related to sex trafficking and conspiracy. A survivor of the Idaho murders has raised more than $50,000 to go toward 'building back her life' nearly three years after her friends were stabbed to death under the same roof as her. Dylan Mortensen's aunts, Kate and Ellie, launched a GoFundMe page Sunday for their niece to get started on her 'healing journey' following the traumatic incident. 'Its been two and a half years of Dylan silently and bravely putting one foot in front of the other, cooperating with law enforcement, processing, and healing from the unimaginable,' they wrote. 'Dylan has had to learn how to live in her new reality - forever lacking peace, security, safety and her closest friends.' The money donated by Mortensen's well-wishers is set to go toward funding her 'relocation, intensive long term trauma therapy, and extra security and privacy measures,' the page read. Mortensen was just 19 when her friends and roommates, Madison Mogen, 21, Ethan Chapin, 20 Kaylee Goncalves, 21, and Xana Kernodle, 20, were senselessly killed by Bryan Kohberger inside a home in Moscow. Just last week, Kohberger was sentenced to life behind bars while families and victims, including Mortensen, spoke out. She detailed the kind of person he is and the fear she's felt since she found out he snuck into their home and killed her best friends in November 2022. Dylan Mortensen, one of the survivors from the Idaho murders, has raised more than $50,000 to help her rebuild her life after the horrid tragedy Mortensen was just 19 when her friends and roommates, Madison Mogen, 21, Ethan Chapin , 20 Kaylee Goncalves, 21, and Xana Kernodle, 20, were senselessly killed inside their home in Moscow Mortensen took several moments to compose herself and had to sit down as she did so before reading her victim impact statement while Kohberger sat just feet away from her. Through deep sobs and broken breath, Mortensen described Kohberger as being subhuman. 'He is a hollow vessel. Something less than human, a body without empathy, without remorse. He feels nothing,' she told the emotional courtroom. 'He chose destruction. He chose evil. He tried to take everything from me, my friends, my safety, their lives. He will stay here, empty, forgotten and powerless.' After finishing her statement people who had gathered inside the packed courtroom were seen wiping tears from their eyes. Meanwhile, Kohberger remained emotionless as he kept his eyes forward the whole time. Like Kernodle and Mogen, Mortensen was a member of Pi Beta Phi and her 'Big' was Kernodle's best friend Emily Alandt. According to friends and court documents, she was a self-described 'scaredy cat' who called Alandt over to the home multiple times because she had heard noises that freaked her out. Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to life in prison for their deaths last week Through deep sobs and broken breath, Mortensen described Kohberger as being subhuman during her victim impact statement At around 4am on November 13, 2022, Mortensen was woken by strange noises inside the home. When she looked around her bedroom door on the second story, she saw Kohberger walk straight past her in the direction of the back door. He was dressed in all black, wearing a mask and with bushy eyebrows. She had no idea that this intruder had just murdered her four friends. During her intense statement last week, Mortensen added: 'What happened that night changed everything, because of him four beautiful, genuine, compassionate people were taken from this world for no reason. 'He took away who they were becoming, and their futures they were going to have. He took away all of the memories we were supposed to make. 'He didn't just take them from the world, he took them from me. My friends, my people who felt like my home. The people I looked up to and adored more than anyone. 'What he did shattered me in places I didnt know could break. I was barely 19 when he did this. 'I should have been figuring out who I was, instead I was supposed to learn to survive the unimaginable.' When asked by the judge if he wanted to make a statement at his hearing, Kohberger, a 30-year-old PhD candidate, awkwardly leaned into the microphone and said: 'I respectfully decline.' He will now spend the remainder of his life in Idaho's Maximum Security Prison without parole. Lawmakers have denied Ghislaine Maxwell's request for congressional immunity in exchange for her testimony, the Daily Mail has learned. Maxwell, the longtime partner of deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, is currently serving a 20-year-sentence for sex trafficking and has been in talks with the Trump administration and Congress about dishing on the disgraced financier and his relationships. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer announced last week that Maxwell is set to testify before the panel on August 11 at the Tallahassee facility where she is serving her prison sentence. He issued her a subpoena for her testimony one day after lawmakers voted to have her reveal more about her case and the crimes committed by Epstein. However, after Maxwell's lawyer David Markus sent a document with conditions for her testimony, the committee has said they won't accept them. 'The Oversight Committee will respond to Ms. Maxwells attorney soon, but it will not consider granting congressional immunity for her testimony,' a spokesperson for the panel told the Daily Mail. The letter from Markus to the committee - which was obtained by the Daily Mail - contains a list of conditions for her to testify, including immunity. 'Public reportsincluding your own statementsindicate that the committee intends to question Ms. Maxwell in prison and without a grant of immunity. Those are non-starters,' the letter states. Inmate photo of Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. The House Oversight Committee denied her conditions for congressional immunity in exchange for her testimony. The panel subpoenaed her testimony last week and her lawyer, David Markus, came back with conditions Donald and Melania Trump with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell Maxwell, shown above with sex offender and accused child trafficker Jefferey Epstein, was a longtime partner of the disgraced financier. She is currently serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking 'Ms. Maxwell cannot risk further criminal exposure in a politically charged environment without formal immunity. Nor is a prison setting conducive to eliciting truthful and complete testimony. The potential for leaks from such a setting creates real security risks and undermines the integrity of the process.' Markus further requests that the committee provide Maxwell with their questions in advance of their sit-down. He also asked to push their meeting until after Maxwell's pending case before the Supreme Court in which she's alleging wrongful legal treatment and until after a subsequent secondary challenge so that her testimony does not sway those cases. Maxwell may want to talk, according to a source who told the Daily Mail last week 'she would be more than happy to sit before Congress and tell her story.' But there were always going to be strings attached to testimony from such a notorious target. The rush to hear from Epstein's protege comes as some lawmakers have raised concern about her protection. 'I requested that she be placed immediately into protective custody and monitored - by guards as well as working surveillance equipment - around the clock, so that our justice system does not again fail the survivors of this Epstein nightmare,' Republican Rep. Scott Perry posted on X. Trump's closest allies and rank-and-file members - including House Oversight Chairman James Comer, Anna Paulina Luna, Nancy Mace and Marjorie Taylor Greene - backed the subpoena for Maxwell. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche has met multiple times with Maxwell at the behest of Trump to discuss what she knows about the Epstein files. David Markus, attorney for Ghislaine Maxwell, center, speaks during a news conference outside the federal courthouse in Tallahassee, Fla., Thursday, July 24, 2025 Blanche offered Maxwell a limited form of immunity during her two days of questioning over former lover and billionaire pedophile Epstein last week. She apparently requested what's known as 'proffer immunity' so that anything she revealed couldn't be used against her at a later date. This form of immunity is specifically provided to people under investigation or facing charges to determine the value of a possible witness. Maxwell has already been tried and convicted. However, Maxwell's lawyer David Oscar Markus said after her questioning: 'There have been no asks and no promises.' A senior Republican member of the U.S. Senate couldn't resist weighing in on a new clothing ad that has gone viral on social media. American Eagle has been under fire for days after running a 'racially charged' ad featuring actress Sydney Sweeney being described as Nazi propaganda. 'Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans' a tagline in one of the videos featuring the blonde-haired, blue-eyed 27-year-old reads. After the launch, many social media users, particularly on the video-sharing platform TikTok, voiced their disapproval of the messaging they viewed as racially charged. Texas Senator Ted Cruz, who regularly rages against 'woke culture' inserted himself in the drama. He wrote on X: 'Wow. Now the crazy Left has come out against beautiful women. Im sure that will poll well.' Social media users were intrigued by Cruz's decision to comment on the controversy. An X user posting under the handle @williamclaybags told Cruz, 'theres literally no reason for you to comment on this story.' United States Senator Ted Cruz, Republican from Texas, leaves the Senate floor at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, USA, 30 June 2025 Sydney Sweeney Has Great (American Eagle) Jeans - 'Just a little self-exposure out of you. You see things through the optics of a vote. Interesting,' wrote another with the username @ColeJJones. Others, meanwhile, recalled an incident that occurred when now-President Donald Trump attacked the appearance of Cruz's wife Heidi during the 2016 GOP presidential primary. 'Why didnt you stand up for Heidi Ruiz (your wife) like this when @realDonaldTrump called her ugly?' asked X user @mondalerobinson. , asking why the senator's wife didn't get the same defense he has provided Sweeney. 'Remember when Trump said your wife was beyond busted and you were like Sir Yes Sir! Lol' mused X user @chudbastard. White House Communications Director Stephen Cheung also stepped in Tuesday afternoon to defend the ad from criticism. 'Cancel culture run amok. This warped, moronic, and dense liberal thinking is a big reason why Americans voted the way they did in 2024. They're tired of this bull**t' Cheung wrote on his official X account. The reference to Sweeney's 'genes' didn't sit well with many people on social media, who accused the ads of being a racial dog whistle. Despite the loud backlash, the double-entendre has seemingly resonated, with American Eagle stock up more than 11 percent since last Wednesday, with a notable spike the day the commercials were released. Despite the backlash, American Eagle stock has risen nearly 11 percent since the ad campaign's launch last Wednesday Actress Sydney Sweeney stars in a new ad campaign for American Eagle jeans The phrase 'great genes' is 'historically used to celebrate whiteness, thinness and attractiveness,' which it said made 'this campaign seem to be a tone-deaf marketing move,' a Salon report on the backlash read. Taking to social media, many expressed their shock at messaging - which they aligned to Nazi propaganda. Outraged fans penned: 'So Sydney (& American Eagle) somehow expect audiences to not interpret this visual as a euphemism for eugenics and white supremacy?' 'The Sydney Sweeney American Eagle ad campaign is just modern day Nazi propaganda. Like it's wild how blatant it is. Things are weird right now, man.' But American Eagle Chief Marketing Officer Craig Brommers has a decidedly different explanation for what the company was trying to accomplish with the ads featuring Sweeney. According to Brommers, Sweeney is one of the most recognizable young people in the world. He said he and others thought putting her face in ads right before the back-to-school season would be a winning strategy. A Colorado family has fled the US for New Zealand over concerns their nine-year-old transgender daughter could be persecuted if they stay in America. Parents Brandon and Candace, who would not reveal their last name over safety fears, left Denver earlier this month with their kids Holt and Chase. Chase, nine, came out as transgender several years ago and the family started planning a way out after President Donald Trump returned to the White House. The day he did, Trump signed an executive order stipulating that there are only two genders, the family said that within 24 hours they had decided to leave the country. Speaking with 9news, Candace said: 'We knew we needed a little bit of an escape plan, maybe not something concrete at first, but we needed to start talking and start thinking about it seriously.' Brandon told the outlet that people they knew had tried to calm their fears by saying Trump wouldn't go after the trans or queer community. 'When he did, it was so much worse. We thought it was going to be one at a time and over a period of time', he said. 'And it was within the first 24 hours that we really started to see that this was not only the entire queer community, it was specifically towards trans and trans youth, and thats really made us jump on it quickly, and really start to make that plan.' Brandon and Candace, seen here with their kids Holt and Chase, left the US for New Zealand earlier this month After President Trump signed an executive order saying there was only two genders they decided to leave the US for the sake of their daughter Chase Chase also waded in to her family's huge 8,000-mile move to Queenstown, New Zealand - saying she told her parents 'they dont have to do this,' but admitted she's 'grateful' they are protecting her. Brandon and Candace said they had looked to their daughter to learn and support her in her identity, and as hostility towards transgender people grew, so did their concerns. A friend of theirs had moved to New Zealand previously and encouraged them to consider it as their new home, citing its progressive values. After researching, they decided on the move. Brandon, who works in the alcohol industry, was approved for an immigration visa through a job at a winery. He added: 'It is an extreme decision. And we are privileged to even have the means to do it. We dont take that for granted. But this is for the safety of our daughter.' The couple had concerns that Chase's access to health could be cut off, with states now actively passing laws blocking gender-affirming care for minors. Colorado, where they lived, still allows this type of care, but they feared that a ban would be passed on a federal level. Candace added: 'Theres all these laws here to protect us. But its what is [Trump] going to do nationally thats going to supersede any sort of state protection we had and how bad is it going to be.' On July 1 they officially left their home in the Centennial State, before eventually arriving in New Zealand last week, according to the outlet. Chase came out as transgender several years ago to her parents Trump signed an executive order stipulating that there are only two genders after a day in the White House Candace told the outlet that the move proved harder than she originally expected it to be, having to say goodbye to family and friends. She added: 'There have to be brighter days ahead. When it gets really hard, I just imagine our lives in six months and how much better it feels. Thats what I keep holding on to. Chase spoke with the outlet, saying: 'Its horrible you get no rights. My family does not feel safe with Trump as president. '[My parents are] just putting in all this work just for me and my brother just so we can be safe. 'I told them they dont have to do this. But they keep doing it. And it just makes me so grateful.' Daily Mail have contacted the family for comment. It comes after an Arizona transgender woman applied for asylum in Canada over fears she was no longer safe. Hannah Kreager, 22, 'fled' her home in the Grand Canyon State for the Canadian city of Calgary. 'I have fled in hopes of finding safety, security, and the freedom to continue to live my life, and access/take my medications as prescribed,' she wrote on a GoFundMe page. Sandie Peggie has named 13 other hospital colleagues who agreed that a trans-identifying male doctor should not be allowed to use a womens changing room. Mrs Peggie returned to the witness box at her employment tribunal against NHS Fife and trans medic Dr Beth Upton, to counter claims that she was the only person who had voiced objections. The 51-year-old told how she was upset as she had not wanted to reveal the identities of the staff from Kirkcaldys Victoria Hospital, because of the toxic way she has been treated. They included receptionists, nurses and a consultant who objected to the born-male medic being given the go-ahead to use the women-only space by NHS Fife bosses. She told her lawyer Naomi Cunningham: Since this happened and the way I was treated, I didnt want anybody else to be put in the same predicament. Its very toxic, and I didnt want any bad feeling towards them. The mum told Ms Cunningham she was quite sad about having to name them because some of them are very close colleagues. The revelation came as Mrs Peggie, the final witness in the landmark tribunal, defended herself against claims of racism and a hate campaign against Dr Upton. Nurse Sandie Peggie defended herself against claims of racism and a hate campaign against trans medic Dr Beth Upton Mrs Peggie meets former SNP MP Joanna Cherry MP outside the tribunal Mrs Peggie brought proceedings against NHS Fife and Dr Upton after she was suspended from work for challenging the trans medic in the female changing room on Christmas Eve 2023. The tribunal has previously heard Mrs Peggie tell how she needed to use the changing room because she had a sudden and heavy period. She took legal action claiming being made to change with a biological man is unlawful. Her case has become the most high-profile tribunal case in the country - and as it continues increasingly bitter. Mrs Peggie named the 13 other hospital workers who agreed with her - adding to the three staff she revealed when she first gave evidence in February. During an hour of questioning by both her lawyer and NHS Fife KC Jane Russell, the tribunal heard how colleagues who had been supportive turned to one of shock when she informed them she had been suspended by the health board. She told the tribunal: They couldnt believe what had happened to me. And she revealed how her Royal College of Nursing representative had told her to get a hobby following her suspension. In May we revealed the nurse, who had been a member of the RCN union for 30 years had launched legal action against them for failing to represent her. Witness Dr Maggie Currer admitted it was an error to have told colleagues Mrs Peggie had been referred to the Nursing and Midwifery Council Mrs Peggie also addressed claims that she was racist telling the tribunal that she had been in a group chat for years with colleagues she had holidayed with several times. Messages revealed Mrs Peggie had shared jokes about the Pakistani floods, which had been described as racist by one group member in evidence this week. But Mrs Peggie insisted that while they were distasteful, the message was sent as dark humour to her friends. And she said that a comment she was alleged to have made about posting a packet of bacon through the letter box of a mosque, was in fact made by a paramedic. NHS Fifes KC Ms Russell put it to her: Have you realised that these messages dont put you in a very good light and so you have thought of a way to explain them away, and youve come up with the explanation of dark humour which you have repeated again and again? The nurse rejected this but admitted she had used racial slurs but said she was brought up like that. She rejected claims that she had embarked on a hate campaign against Dr Upton. The veteran nurse who has an unblemished record, told Ms Russell: I dont have any bad feelings towards trans people, I just dont believe they should be in womens changing areas. The tribunal was told Mrs Peggie asked a colleague for a picture of that weirdo Beth, and claims, which Mrs Peggie rejected, that she had called the medic a weirdo at her birthday lunch. The nurse, who was cleared of misconduct in a separate internal NHS probe earlier this month, said she did not think the medic was a weirdo. She told the tribunal: I think he looks strange because hes very obviously a man who wants to wear womens clothing. Mrs Peggie rejected Ms Russells suggestion that the only reason she went to the changing room that night was to confront Dr Upton in a way that you knew was objectional. Earlier, Fife NHS Dr Maggie Currer claimed it was an error to have told colleagues that Mrs Peggie had been referred to the Nursing and Midwifery Council. When quizzed about Dr Upton being biologically male the emergency department consultant told the tribunal: Shes chromosomally male. And as far as Im aware, although I have not examined Dr Upton, she is also, in terms of secondary sexual characteristics, in terms of genitalia, male but I have not examined her. The tribunal will reconvene in September for oral submissions. Newly released police bodycam footage has revealed the moment Idaho murderer Bryan Kohberger was pulled over just three months before he slaughtered four college students. The 30-year-old, who was sentenced to life in prison last week, was pulled over by a Latah County Sheriff's deputy in August 2022 after he was caught speeding on Pullman-Moscow Highway - the road that connects Washington and Idaho. The footage was supposed to be shown during his capital murder trial, but after he accepted a plea deal it was approved for release by Judge Steven Hippler. The video, obtained by Idaho Statesman, showed Deputy Darren Duke walking up to Kohberger's Hyundai Elantra before having him lower his window. Duke said: 'Hey there, I stopped you going a little fast. You realize this is 35?' 'Oh, it's 35?,' Kohberger replied as he shook his head several times. 'I was going about 41, about that,' he added before handing over his license, registration and insurance to the officer. The former PhD candidate then handed his documents over before admitting he wasn't wearing his seatbelt when he was stopped by the cop. Police bodycam footage revealed Idaho murderer Bryan Kohberger being pulled over just three months before he slaughtered four college students Madison Mogen, 21, Ethan Chapin , 20 Kaylee Goncalves, 21, and Xana Kernodle, 20, were senselessly killed by Kohberger inside their home in Moscow on November 13, 2022 'Were you wearing your seatbelt when I stopped you?,' the officer asked. 'No,' Kohberger replied before Duke said: 'That's no good.' 'Just being honest with you,' Kohberger responded. The cop then told him he appreciated his honesty, to which Kohberger made direct eye contact with him and replied: 'There is absolutely no point in not being honest.' Duke then informed the now-murderer that he will have to pay a $10 fine for not wearing his seatbelt in the state of Idaho. The cop then told Kohberger he was going to let him go on the speeding as he proceeded to ask questions about the citation and appeared to get defensive when the officer asked for his phone number. 'Just for future reference, I mean I'm obviously an obvious person. I told you I wasn't wearing my seatbelt,' Kohberger explained. 'But people lie to you about that, say I lied to you about that...,' he added. He proceeded to ask questions about the citation and appeared to get defensive when the officer asked for his phone number His new mugshot showed him staring hauntingly straight into the camera with a vacant, emotionless expression following his sentencing hearing for killing the students He then questioned if the officer 'usually' looks to see if drivers are wearing seatbelts, before the officer said 'I should,' laughing as he did so. The video ended with the officer telling Kohberger to have a good night as they went their separate ways. On November 13, 2022, Kohberger crept into a home in Moscow and brutally stabbed four young University of Idaho students - Madison Mogen, 21, Ethan Chapin, 20 Kaylee Goncalves, 21, and Xana Kernodle, 20. He was arrested around six weeks later on December 30, 2022, at his parents home in Albrightsville, Pennsylvania, where he had gone for the holidays. After spending more than two years fighting the charges, Kohberger finally confessed to his crimes and pleaded guilty earlier this month. Just last week, Kohberger was sentenced to life in prison while families and victims spoke out as he sat emotionless. When asked by the judge if he wanted to make a statement at his hearing, Kohberger awkwardly leaned into the microphone and said: 'I respectfully decline.' His new mugshot showed him staring hauntingly straight into the camera with the same vacant, emotionless expression he wore when confronted by his victims' heartbroken family members. He will now spend the remainder of his life in Idaho's Maximum Security Prison without the possibility of parole. To listen to the full episode featuring Dr Gary Brucato's in-depth analysis, search for 'On The Case: The Idaho Murders' now, wherever you get your podcasts. Passengers have been spotted running across the tarmac at an airport after the 'landing gear' of their plane started smoking. The Turkish Airlines flight departing from Istanbul at 5.25pm made an emergency landing at Antalya Airport, allegedly due to hydraulic failure. Smoke could be seen coming out of the landing gear as it taxied along the runway before takeoff of flight TK243 from Istanbul. Terrified holidaymakers were filmed using the emergency slides of the Boeing 777-300ER. It has been reported that all 247 passengers and 13 crew members were safely evacuated and the aircraft was towed to a secure area. An investigation into the incident is ongoing. Passengers have been spotted running across the tarmac at an airport after the 'landing gear' of their Turkish Airlines plane caught fire The THY flight departing from Istanbul at 17:25 made an emergency landing at Antalya Airport, allegedly due to hydraulic failure A Turkish airlines spokesperson said: 'Following a normal landing on the runway, our Boeing 777, registered TC-LKF, operating flight TK2430 from Istanbul to Antalya, observed smoke on the landing gear while on the taxiway. 'Upon the recommendation of the firefighting teams (ARFF) a passenger evacuation was carried out as a precaution. The evacuation of our passengers was promptly completed, and no injuries occurred. 'Initial findings indicate that the smoke was caused by a technical malfunction in the hydraulic pipe.' It comes two days after a different Boeing airplane departing from Denver Airport also had to issue a forced evacuation when the plane experienced an problem with its landing gear while on the runway. Flight AA3023 bound for Miami, Florida, was preparing for takeoff when first responders were alerted about the issue on Saturday afternoon and evacuated everybody onboard the Boeing 737 MAX 8. All 173 passengers and six crew members had to be evacuated from an American Airlines flight Video posted online showed all 173 passengers and six crew members frantically exiting the plane on a slide as smoke billowed from underneath the aircraft. Five people were treated at the scene, while a sixth was transported to a local hospital for what has been described as a minor injury. The plane had been scheduled to depart from Denver at 1.12pm, and the FAA said that a 'possible landing gear' incident happened during takeoff on runway 34L. It remains unclear what exactly went wrong during takeoff, but a spokesman for American Airlines said the aircraft experienced a maintenance issue with one of its tires and had to be taken out of service to be inspected. A 14-year-old boy is fighting for his life in hospital after being stabbed in a broad daylight attack in east London, as police arrest five teenagers on suspicion of attempted murder. Emergency services rushed to Charlemont Road in Newham shortly after 4pm on Saturday following reports of a stabbing. Paramedics treated the schoolboy at the scene before rushing him to hospital, where he remains in a life-threatening condition. The shocking attack, which unfolded in front of horrified members of the public, has sparked an urgent police investigation. Five teenage boys, aged between 14 and 17, were arrested today in connection with the stabbing all on suspicion of attempted murder. Four of the suspects remain in custody for questioning, while one has been released on bail pending further enquiries. A 14-year-old boy is fighting for his life in hospital after being stabbed in a broad daylight attack in east London , as police arrest five teenagers on suspicion of attempted murder Detective Inspector Joshua Palmer, from the North East Command Unit, described the incident as a 'horrific attack' and said officers were working tirelessly to piece together what happened. The force has not currently identified a motive behind the attack. 'This was witnessed by numerous members of the public,' he said. 'The boy is in a very serious condition in hospital, and we are urgently trying to gather as much information as possible. 'If you were near Charlemont Road on the day of the incident, please check your phone for any footage you may have. 'I would urge anyone with dashcam or mobile phone footage from the area to contact the police. It may be crucial in our investigation.' Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Witnesses or those with relevant footage are asked to call 101, quoting reference 4847/26JUL25. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be provided via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Enquiries are ongoing. A teenager has been charged with murder after she allegedly beat her grandmother to death with a mallet in front of her home. Jailen Mia Lupton was arrested at the residence in Irvington, Alabama on Saturday after police found her 70-year-old grandmother, Diane Trest, dead in the front yard. A mallet was found nearby according to the Mobile County Sheriff's Office. Lupton was also charged with second-degree burglary in relation to the incident. A neighbor told investigators that Lupton forced her way inside her home, pushed her and demanded her car keys. Lupton allegedly told the neighbor that she had just killed her own grandmother. Two other witnesses told investigators they were flagged down by a woman who frantically said Trest had been beaten to death by Lupton. Jailen Mia Lupton was arrested at the scene of the horrific crime in Irvington, Alabama Lupton then visited a neighbor's home in an effort to steal her car and told the neighbor she had just killed her grandmother The motorist called 911 to report the incident. Neighbor Cheryl Edwards told WDHN: 'There's always been issues next door. Ever since I've lived here, the cops have been there.' Edwards and Trest were neighbors for 10 years before Saturday's tragedy. 'She told me about her children, her sons and her daughters and her grandchildren, and she said they're troubled.' Edwards said Trest would often pop over for a visit covered in scratches and bruises, insisting they were caused by her dogs. 'We kept telling her, "They're going to kill you one day." They're either going to drug you or kill you. 'This is senseless. How can somebody do this to a grandparent that has raised you practically your entire life?' Trest has been remembered by loved ones as a kind hearted Christian woman. Neighbors had warned Trest she was at risk. She has been remembered as a kind hearted Christian woman One of Trest's nieces wrote in a moving tribute: 'Pray for our family please we need them. 'She was one of the best, she may not have had much but boy did she have love. She never met a stranger and would tell anyone about Jesus. 'She in now walking the streets of gold. The hard life and struggles that she went through is over.' Lupton will appear in court for a bond hearing on Monday morning. A mom in Maine suffered a crushing defeat in court following claims that a woke school hid her child's gender transition from her and their family. Amber Lavigne, of Wiscasset, discovered a chest binder in her 13-year-old child's room when the then-eighth grader was at a school dance in December 2022. Yet, an appeal for the lawsuit Lavigne launched against the school in 2023 has dismissed by the First Circuit Court of Appeals. Lavigne's child said, at the time, that the binder - a garment used to flatten the chest of the wearer - was bought for them by a social worker named Sam Roy at Great Salt Bay School in Damariscotta. In her appeal, Lavigne argued that her claims 'sufficiently establish the existence of a policy or custom of withholding... the district court erred in declining to address the first element of municipal liability, and her allegations established that the Board violated her right to direct the education of her child.' According to documents, the court concluded in her appeal that 'Lavigne's allegations fail to plausibly show that either the Board had a policy of withholding or that the Board later ratified the individual defendants' decision to withhold information from Lavigne.' The court furthered that Lavigne did not provide 'sufficient' evidence to argue of a policy or custom for withholding and concealing information. 'None of [Lavigne's] allegations support the inference that the Board maintained an unwritten custom or policy of withholding information from parents,' court documents said. Amber Lavigne, of Wiscasset, discovered a chest binder in her child's room when the then-eighth grader was at a school dance in December 2022. Yet, an appeal for the lawsuit Lavigne launched against the school in 2023 is revealed to have been granted dismissal by the First Circuit Court of Appeals Lavigne's child said, at the time, that the binder - a garment used to flatten the chest of the wearer - was bought for them by a social worker named Sam Roy (pictured) at Great Salt Bay School in Damariscotta 'Without this factual support, Lavigne's contention that the school acted pursuant to an unwritten "blanket policy, pattern, and practice of intentional withholding and concealment of such information from all parents" is based solely on her "information and belief".' The mother and her lawyers demanded, at the time of the initial lawsuit, a 'full investigation into Mr. Roy's decision to give a 13-year-old girl an undergarment without notice, consent or involvement of her mother.' They also claimed the school's actions broke the Fourteenth Amendment by blocking Lavigne's fundamental constitutional right to control and direct the education, upbringing, and healthcare decisions of her daughter,' Adam Shelton, a lawyer at Goldwater, wrote in a letter. The school district was further accused by Lavigne of withholding and concealing her child's transition, including the use of a name and pronouns that were not assigned to the child at birth. The law firm argued that although students have confidential access to mental healthcare through school, social transitioning is 'not protected by statutory confidentiality'. 'The "social transitioning" of Ms. Lavignes daughter without her notice, consent, or involvement in the process alone violated her constitutional rights,' the letter said. 'But even if secrecy were required by Maine law, such secrecy would still violate Ms. Lavignes constitutional rights. Ms. Lavigne has a clearly established constitutional right to control and direct the education, upbringing, and healthcare decisions of her child. The actions of the School, school employees, and the District have violated that right.' Lavigne pulled her child from the school, allowing her daughter to cut her hair short but still referring to her by feminine pronouns. According to documents, the court concluded in her appeal that 'Lavigne's allegations fail to plausibly show that either the Board had a policy of withholding or that the Board later ratified the individual defendants' decision to withhold information from Lavigne' The mother told National Review that she believes her daughter is still her daughter at heart and that she acts femininely when she's not thinking about it. She added that she was not opposed to her daughters eventual transition, and said: 'If she at 18 starts taking testosterone and decides to mutilate her body, am I going to express to her some concerns? Absolutely,' she told the National Review. 'Am I going to write my kiddo off? Never in a million years. This is my baby girl. At the end of the day, Im not going to destroy my relationship with my child to be right.' 'At the end of the day, she is who she is,' the mother said. 'If she thinks shes going to live a more fulfilled life as a male, thats up for her to decide as an adult. At 13, its up to me to safeguard my child against doing things to her body that she cant reverse.' The Daily Mail has contacted Great Bay School for comment. A 'proud and passionate' teenage soldier collapsed and died during a physical training session with his battalion, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced. Private Harry Johnson, 19, was just three months into his military career when the tragedy occurred at Vimy Barracks in Catterick, North Yorkshire, last Thursday. The youngster had only signed up to the 2nd Infantry Training Battalion in April, with his superiors revealing that he had already shown 'enormous potential' as a soldier. Pte Johnson, who had passed basic training earlier this month, had been awarded Best Shot at his pass off parade before joining the Bruneval Platoon to begin training as a paratrooper. Paying tribute to the Doncaster-born teenager, the MoD today released a statement describing Pte Johnson as 'one of the hardest working members of the platoon,' as well as being 'reliable and disciplined'. The MoD continued: 'In 13 weeks, the only fault his training team could find was one day spotting some loose threads on his uniform. 'Pte Johnson's determination and selflessness were highlighted on field training exercises, being the first to volunteer to help those around him and making them laugh with his reaction to the thought of wet and dry drills. 'Despite not being the biggest soldier, his high standards of physical fitness, coupled with his determination and courage, meant he often punched above his weight, consistently performing at the top of the platoon.' Private Harry Johnson, 19, was just three months into his military career when he collapsed and died during training at Vimy Barracks in Catterick, North Yorkshire The young man from Doncaster had signed up to the 2nd Infantry Training Battalion in April It went on to describe the young soldier as someone who carried out tasks 'with a smile on his face and a genuine love for the job,' and showed 'evident love for his family and girlfriend, with whom he spoke regularly.' His death, the statement added, was 'a tragic blow' to his colleagues and loved ones. Lieutenant Colonel Ben Jesty, commanding officer of the 2nd Infantry Training Battalion, said the army had been left 'heartbroken' by his death. 'Tipped to be a future P Company Champion, he was the kind of young soldier that the country needs: fit, determined, disciplined and selfless. 'Vitally, he had the sense of humour to laugh at the eccentricities of Army life. He was a credit to his friends and family, to whom we offer our most heartfelt condolences at this awful time.' Pte Sam Birbeck, who trained alongside him in Bruneval Platoon, recalled the teenager's 'quiet yet engaging personality' and said: 'Harry was a genuine, talented, and caring individual who made a positive impression on those around him.' Another of his peers, Pte Cayden Dalgity, described Harry as 'a good guy who was always willing to help others. He was someone you could rely on.' Sergeant Foreman, Platoon Sergeant, said the young soldier was on track to 'becoming one of Britain's finest.' Infantry recruits typically spend 28 weeks at the Infantry Training Centre (ITC) at Catterick. Pictured: Soldiers at Vimy Barracks in 2022 He added: 'His quiet resilience, determination, and the grit required to even begin that journey are not ordinary. They are qualities found in the best of us. 'Those who trained beside him will remember his loyalty and integrity.' Infantry recruits typically spend 28 weeks at the Infantry Training Centre (ITC) at Catterick. The MoD said in a statement: 'It is with immense sadness we confirm the death of Private (Pte) Harry Johnson of the 2nd Infantry Training Battalion on 24th July 2025. 'He died following a physical training session at Vimy Barracks, Catterick. He was 19 years old. Our thoughts are with Pte Johnson's family and friends at this sad time.' Pauline Hanson has delivered a tough lesson to Australia's youngest senator, 21, who suggested the One Nation leader is stupid for trying to scrap the nation's net zero target. Hanson, 71, introduced a motion on Monday to scrap Australia's target of net zero carbon dioxide emissions, claiming the policy will 'destroy jobs and the Australian economy'. 'Power bills are out of control. Manufacturing is being wiped out. And ordinary Australians are paying the price, while out-of-touch politicians and inner-city idealists push fantasy policies they'll never have to live under,' Hanson said. 'We are being led by fools. Shame on every politician who continues to push this madness. I will not stand by while Australia is driven into the ground.' But before the vote, new Labor senator for South Australia Charlotte Walker, 21, slammed Hanson as lacking knowledge of the subject. 'All I can say is, are you kidding?' she said. 'The motion put forward on net zero indicates a severe lack of knowledge and a complete disregard for the future of our generation, the future of our country. 'Without a net zero target, there will be no Australian farmers, businesses or industries to support us. 'Net zero is waking up to a reality that Senator Hanson has not been able to grasp. In fact, Senator Hanson seems to be hellbent on exacerbating all of the consequences of climate change.' Pauline Hanson (pictured right) faced a scathing attack from Charlotte Walker, 21, (left) on Monday after putting forward a motion to abandon Australia's net zero by 2050 target Labor senator for South Australia Charlotte Walker (pictured with Anthony Albanese) said Hanson's motion 'indicates a severe lack of knowledge and a complete disregard for the future of our generation' After Walker's remarks, Hanson hit back and accused her of being a hypocrite. 'Charlotte said she grew up on the farm - a farm that uses diesel and petroleum products to actually do the work. I don't think she really understands about what net zero is,' she said. 'She's no sooner out of bloody university and out of her nappies than she's telling me I don't know what the hell I'm talking about when I've been on the floor of parliament for the last nine years. 'I don't take any notice of her, who's just trying to make her place in this parliament - and congratulations. But don't come in thinking that you're going to tell me what I know or what I don't know when I have been dealing with this for many years.' The motion from Hanson ultimately failed with only the four One Nation senators, United Australia Party senator Ralph Babet and Coalition senators Matt Canavan and Alex Antic voting in its favour. Hanson had not expected the motion to succeed but intended for it to expose the Coalition members who refused to support it. 'Labor, the Greens and the crossbench voted it down. And the Liberals? Cowards. They had the notice. They had the time. And they still ran for the exits. Not one of them had the guts to stand and be counted,' Hanson said. Meanwhile, former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce on Monday launched a separate bid to repeal the net zero emissions by 2050 target. But his private member's bill is also guaranteed to fail, because it lacks the support of the government which has a majority in the House of Representatives. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley maintains the Coalition will wait until after a review of its disastrous May election loss before making formal policy decisions. Despite a growing number of Liberal politicians speaking out against renewable energy policies which have pushed electricity prices to crippling levels, Ley would not budge from her position of waiting for a review. 'We're going to bring all of those views together ... to flesh out the different perspectives, the expert advice and, of course, focus on this government's miserable failure when it comes to energy policy,' she told Sky News. Asked about the political impact of dumping the climate target, Ley said she would not foreshadow the review's outcome. Many Liberal moderates want the net-zero target retained so the party can win back the wealthy city electorates which have backed Teal candidates. But Joyce said there was no reason why abandoning the targets should be off the table. 'This is not about leadership. This is not about trying to create some sort of discordant note,' he said ahead of the bill's introduction. 'There's not anything in this bill that the Coalition didn't have the same position we voted for.' Joyce has the backing of his former leadership rival Michael McCormack. The two ex-deputy prime ministers are critical of Nationals leader David Littleproud's handling of the aftermath of the election defeat. The National Party briefly split with the Liberals over front-bench representation and policy divisions including energy, but Littleproud was later placated and came back into the fold. A former Royal Marine has been killed in a car crash in Australia just a year after moving from his hometown in Scotland. James Robert Reynolds, 25, died after the Toyota Hilux Utility he was driving collided with a Volkswagen T-Cross on a single carriageway in Lyndon, western Australia, on Sunday morning. Emergency services raced to the scene on Coral Bay Road at around 9:30am, where James was found with critical injuries. He was rushed to Coral Bay Nursing Post but sadly died later that day. A 25-year-old female passenger in the Toyota was taken to the same hospital with minor injuries, while the 50-year-old female driver of the Volkswagen sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Royal Perth Hospital. The Western Australia Police Force have launched an investigation into the crash and are appealing for any witnesses to come forward. James was originally from Fraserburgh in Scotland and served in the Royal Marines for six years, but moved to Australia in 2024 to take up a job as a mechanical fitter, according the Daily Record. He was described as a 'dearly loved son', 'much loved brother' and 'good friend to all who knew him' in a heartwarming tribute on social media. Former Royal Marine James Robert Reynolds, 25, was killed in a car crash in Australia The 25-year-old (pictured) died after the Toyota he was driving collided with a Volkswagen on a single carriageway in Lyndon, western Australia, on Sunday morning Emergency services raced to the scene on Coral Bay Road (pictured) at around 9:30am, where James was found with critical injuries A spokesperson for Western Australia Police Force said: 'Officers from the Major Crash Investigation Section are investigating a fatal crash which occurred in Lyndon (approximately 160kms east of Coral Bay) on Sunday, 27 July 2025. 'About 9.30am, emergency services responded to reports a red Toyota Hilux Utility and a white Volkswagen T-Cross station sedan had collided on Coral Bay Road, near Milinya-Exmouth Road. 'The 25-year-old male driver of the Toyota Hilux was conveyed by paramedics to the Coral Bay Nursing Post with critical injuries but later died. 'The 25-year-old female passenger of the same vehicle sustained minor injuries and was conveyed to Coral Bay Nursing Post for treatment. 'The 50-year-old female driver and sole occupant of the Volkswagen sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Royal Perth Hospital for treatment. 'Major Crash investigators are appealing for anyone with dash-cam or mobile phone vision, or other information relating to the crash to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online via www.crimestopperswa.com.au. Reports can be made anonymously. 'If you or anyone you know has been affected by a road crash, contact Road Trauma Support WA on 1300 004 814.' Perth residents were shaken awake early this morning when a strong earthquake struck at 2am in the central Wheatbelt. The quake's shallow depth amplified its impact, rocking beds and rattling nerves across the city. The 4.8 magnitude quake was recorded in Wyalkatchem, 192 kilometres north-east of Perth. The shallow depth of the quake meant it was felt more strongly near the epicentre than a deeper quake of similar magnitude would be. So far, hundreds of reports have been made to Geoscience Australia, with the majority coming from Perth residents who described their beds swaying during the tremor. 'It lasted about 25 seconds, enough to rock my bed as if someone was beside it physically rocking the frame,' said one resident. One East Perth resident described the experience as out of this world. 'I live in an apartment on the 24th floor in the city and it felt like someone was shaking my bed but like it was floating and shaking,' they said. A strong earthquake has hit WA early this morning Hundreds of residents across Perth reported the quake woke them from their slumber 'Parents described it as they thought it was a ghost.' Many residents reported the quake woke them up. 'It woke me up, shook all my windows in the house, and after all the rattling stopped you could feel the rattle pulsate slightly and hear it like the roar of thunder,' said another. 'It sounded like a truck motor starting at the other end of the building,' another resident told ABC Radio Perth. 'It seemed to go through the building, as if it was going through the roof. 'I went to check outside to see if there was a truck going past. But there was nothing.' Senior seismologist Trevor Allen told ABC Radio Perth reports were coming from people far away from where the earthquake hit. 'The earthquake appears to have been felt extensively throughout south-western WA, including in Perth,' he said. 'And it has been felt as far away as Kalgoorlie.' Dr Allen said about 130 earthquakes were detected across the Wheatbelt since July last year. 'The region has been quite active for the past 12 months,' he said. 'A couple of days ago there was a magnitude 4. And prior to today's event, the largest earthquake in the region was a magnitude 4.5. 'This is certainly the largest earthquake we have seen in the current sequence in the Wyalkatchem area.' So far one aftershock has been recorded seven minutes after the initial quake struck. Larger earthquakes such as this one are usually followed by smaller aftershocks in the same area for days and sometimes years after the main shock. The night before the 'wedding of the century', Princess Diana spent a quiet evening with her sisters and bridal party at Clarence House. The young bride-to-be had only recently turned 20 and admitted to journalist Andrew Morton ten years later that she had a very bad fit of bulimia the night before'. Between 1991 and 1992, Diana recorded tapes for Morton, which were the main source of his best-selling authorised biography, Diana: Her True Story. In the tapes, Diana tells how her public persona was often very different to her real personality. 'I ate everything I could possibly find, which amused my sister, and nobody understood what was going on there,' said Diana. 'It was very hush-hush. I was as sick as a parrot that night. It was such an indication of what was going on.' In another room, the Queen Mother and Lady Fermoy, Dianas grandmother, watched Dads Army on TV. Diana found it hard to sleep and went downstairs, where 'Backstairs Billy', the Queen Mothers Steward, William Tallon, gave her a glass of orange juice. On July 29, 1981, 44 years ago to this day, Princess Diana married Prince Charles at St Paul's Cathedral in front of 3,500 guests Charles and Diana sit whispering to each other during their wedding ceremony Diana enters St. Paul's Cathedral on the arm of her father, Earl Spencer, ahead of her marriage to Charles Then she spotted his bicycle, leapt on it and cycled around in circles, ringing the bell and singing: Im going to marry the Prince of Wales tomorrow! And then came the morning. 'I was very, very calm, deathly calm,' said Diana. 'I felt I was a lamb to the slaughter. I knew it and couldn't do anything about it. My last night of freedom was with Jane at Clarence House.' On July 29, 1981, 44 years ago to this day, Diana married Charles at St Paul's Cathedral in front of 3,500 guests. A record-breaking 750million people in 74 countries across the globe tuned in to watch the event on television. 'I remember being so in love with my husband that I couldn't take my eyes off him,' Diana said. 'He was going to look after me. Well, was I wrong on that assumption? 'He was going to look after me. Well, was I wrong on that assumption?' Diana said Between 1991 and 1992, Diana recorded tapes for Andrew Morton, which were the main source of his best-selling authorised biography, Diana: Her True Story Crowds of royal fans wore patriotic costumes as they waited to catch a glimpse of the royal newlyweds 'I realised I had taken on an enormous role but had no idea what I was going into - but no idea.' Charles and Diana had announced their engagement five months prior to the wedding, on February 24, 1981, with an exclusive interview. The Prince told the BBC that he was 'delighted and frankly amazed' that Diana was 'prepared' to take him on. However, he upset his future wife when he was asked if they were in love. Diana replied, 'Of course,' while Charles quipped, 'Whatever in love means' - a comment she was believed to find 'traumatising'. During the discussion, Diana debuted her 47,000 engagement ring from luxury jeweller Garrard. It was a 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire, surrounded by 14 diamonds, set in 18-carat white gold. Diana's dress featured a substantial skirt complete with a record-breaking 25ft-train and frothy folds of silk taffeta fit for a fairytale. To make sure it would fit down the aisle, wedding dress designers Elizabeth and David Emanuel secretly measured St Paul's Cathedral with a tape measure. Diana said: 'I realised I had taken on an enormous role but had no idea what I was going into - but no idea' 'That dress!' BBC presenter Tom Fleming exclaimed as the soon-to-be princess smoothed the dress around her Diana's wedding dress, and it's 25-foot train, has gone down as one of the most famous wedding dresses in history 'I felt I was a lamb to the slaughter. I knew it and couldn't do anything about it,' said Diana During the couples five-month engagement, Diana's waist has shrunk from 29in to 23in and her dress has been taken in five times. She attended around 15 fittings and required five bodices to accommodate her rapid weight loss. In addition to being sewn into the gown after losing more weight ahead of her wedding, Diana accidentally spilt perfume on her dress just hours before walking down the aisle, which she hid by holding that part of the gown. 'That dress!' BBC presenter Tom Fleming exclaimed as the soon-to-be princess smoothed the dress around her. 'What a dream she looks,' commentator Angela Rippon added while noting Diana's tiny waist. According to journalist Penny Junor's book, The Duchess: The Untold Story, Charles sent Diana a signet ring that bore his Prince of Wales feathers, accompanied by a note that read: 'I am so proud of you and when you come up, I'll be there at the altar for you tomorrow. Just look 'em in the eye and knock them dead.' However, Diana's personal astrologer, Penny Thornton, claimed in an ITV documentary that the royal also had a devastating confession for his bride. 'One of the most shocking things that Diana told me was that the night before the wedding, Charles told her that he didn't love her,' Thornton claimed. During the couples five-month engagement, Diana's waist has shrunk from 29in to 23in and her dress has been taken in five times Charles and Diana are pictured in May 1981, two months before their wedding 'I think Charles didn't want to go into the wedding on a false premise. He wanted to square it with her and it was devastating for Diana.' In 2020, speaking in Channel 5's documentary, Charles & Camilla: King and Queen in Waiting, former BBC royal reporter Jennie Bond said Diana confided to her about her doubts on her big day. Bond, who grew close to Princess Diana while working as a royal correspondent from 1989 to 2003, revealed the fairytale appearance of the 1981 royal wedding was very different behind closed doors. She said: 'Diana told me much later in one of our private conversations that she had felt like a lamb to the slaughter as she walked up the aisle, which is very sad, but I think she knew that things weren't quite right. 'When she saw Camilla in the congregation, she was immediately uneasy about it.' Bond added that Diana found a bracelet that Prince Charles had given Camilla during their engagement, which he had engraved with her initials. 'She was enraged by it, and she wanted to know why he had gifted this to Camilla'. Charles and Diana are pictured on board the Royal Yacht Britannia in Gibraltar, at the start of their honeymoon cruise in August 1981 Charles and Diana are pictured during their honeymoon at Balmoral in Scotland Diana and Charles - pictured in 1990 - were both were having extramarital affairs by 1986 Charles even wore a set of personalised cufflinks, which read C & C, for Charles and Camilla, on the couple's honeymoon. By 1986, both were having extramarital affairs. While Charles was seeing Camilla, the love of his life, Diana was having a dalliance with Army officer Captain James Hewitt. In 1992, Prime Minister John Major announced the couple were to separate, but continue living together at Kensington Palace. Two years after their separation, Charles would admit to his infidelity on national TV, on the same night that Diana wore the outfit later dubbed the 'Revenge Dress'. In August 1996, their divorce was finalised, and they continued to co-parent their sons until Diana's tragic death in a car crash in Paris one year later. It was not until 1999 that Charles and Camilla felt able to 'come out' as a couple. They did so by allowing a photo to be taken of them as they left the Ritz hotel in London, having attended a 50th birthday party. It would take a further six years before they could marry, and that ceremony was nowhere near as lavish or high-profile as Charles and Diana's nuptials. Diana and Charles attending a civic welcome ceremony in Nathan Phillips Square on October 25, 1991, in Toronto, Canada Diana pictured with her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, at the piano in Kensington Palace Charles and Camilla - who had both been divorced - opted for a civil ceremony which was followed by a religious blessing in 2005 In 2005, Charles married Camilla Parker Bowles at Windsor Guildhall. Charles and Camilla - who had both been divorced - opted for a civil ceremony which was followed by a religious blessing. The couple's wedding ceremony was attended by their children from their previous marriages - Prince William, Prince Harry, Laura Lopes and Tom Parker Bowles. Unlike Charles' first wedding, the couple's civil ceremony was kept private. Buckingham Palace announced that there would be no music or readings featured in the order of service. After the ceremony, the royal newlyweds took the time to greet royal fans who had gathered on the streets of Windsor to celebrate their marriage. Today marks 44 years since Prince Charles and Princess Diana tied the knot at St Paul's Cathedral in what was billed as the 'wedding of the century'. Their union marked a highpoint in the popularity of the Royal Family and was watched by a global audience of 750million across 74 countries A public holiday was declared and 28.4million Brits watched the wedding on TV with a further 600,000 lining the streets of London. But all was not well behind palace doors as whispers of adultery began to surface. Royal biographer Gyles Brandreth, a 'close friend' of Prince Philip though he later confessed that 'royalty offer you friendliness, not friendship'. This 'friendship' or 'friendliness' offered the broadcaster a unique insight into the workings of the royal household. He wrote in his 2021 book, Philip The Final Portrait, that he has heard both sides of the divorce story, having friends who were also good friends with both Diana and Charles. The former Tory MP met Prince Philip through his work with the Playing Field Association, and was often given privileged access to the Queen, to walk and talk with her as she went about her official duties. Today marks 44 years since Prince Charles and Princess Diana tied the knot at St Paul's Cathedral in what was billed as the 'wedding of the century' When it came to the Queen and her husband's views on their son's relationship, Brandreth wrote: 'Unlike almost everybody else involved in the drama, Philip and Elizabeth could see both sides of the story, and had some sympathy with both sides too' But by the summer of 1992, the Queen agreed that something must be done about Charles and Diana's relationship And when it came to the Queen and her husband's views on their son's relationship, Brandreth wrote: 'Unlike almost everybody else involved in the drama, Philip and Elizabeth could see both sides of the story, and had some sympathy with both sides too. 'They kept their own counsel. They looked on, silent and dismayed. 'They cared about Charles and they cared about Diana. The cared about their grandchildren, especially. And they cared about the Crown and the country, also.' But by the summer of 1992, the Queen agreed that something must be done about their failing relationship, just as the Sunday Times had began to serialise Andrew Mortons book, Diana: Her True Story. Brandreth wrote: 'There are certainly two sides to the sorry story of the marriage of Charles and Diana. 'Charles, according to Diana's camp, was selfish, self-indulgent, thoughtless, unsympathetic, uncaring and cruel. 'He was weak yet wilful, pathetic yet petulant. He behaved like a spoilt child. 'Above all, he was jealous of his wife's popularity with the public. Brandreth wrote: 'Philip and the late Queen cared about Charles and they cared about Diana. The cared about their grandchildren, especially. And they cared about the Crown and the country, also' 'Charles, according to Diana's camp, was selfish, self-indulgent, thoughtless, unsympathetic, uncaring and cruel. He was weak yet wilful, pathetic yet petulant. He behaved like a spoilt child. Above all, he was jealous of his wife's popularity with the public,' says Brandreth Gyles Brandreth wrote in his 2021 book, Philip The Final Portrait, that he has heard both sides of the divorce story, having friends who were also good friends with both Diana and Charles 'Diana, according to Charles' friends, was a sad case, almost from the start. She was in love with the position, but not the prince. 'She was never close to understanding her man or trying to. She was self-regarding, self-absorbed, self-obsessed.' The sources for Diana's authorised biography, written by journalist Andrew Morton, were acknowledged to be Dianas friend. But at Buckingham Palace, they suspected that Diana was the source and they were right. While Diana didn't meet Morton directly, she recorded tapes answering his questions which became the basis of his book. But even when Prince Philip challenged her directly on her input to the book, saying many feared shed cooperated in some way, she told him that she hadnt. That June, the Queen and Prince Philip sat down with Charles and Diana at Windsor Castle. It was reported that Charles said little, but Diana insisted that the time had come for a trial separation. But by the summer of 1992, the Queen agreed that something must be done just as the Sunday Times had began to serialise Andrew Mortons book, Diana: Her True Story. The couple pictured in the days leading up to their wedding day While Diana didn't met Andrew Morton directly, she recorded tapes answering his questions which became the basis of his book, Diana: Her True Story 'The Queen and Prince Philip were totally as one,' wrote Brandreth. 'They counselled the unhappy couple to search for a compromise, to think less of themselves and more of others, to try to work together to revive their marriage for their own sakes, for the sake of their boys, for the sake of Crown and country.' The Queen proposed a second meeting the following day but Diana failed to turn up, prompting Prince Philip to react. Brandreth noted that I try to keep out of these things as much as possible was the prince's line unless he thought he had something useful to contribute. He started writing the first in a series of letters to Diana. Brandreth wrote: 'He certainly didnt condone his sons on-going relationship with Camilla not for a moment but he did want Diana at least to try to see the situation from Charless point of view.' Diana was upset by the letters and shared them with her closest girlfriends, Rosa Monckton, then managing director of Tiffanys in London (Diana was godmother to her daughter, Domenica), and Lucia Flecha de Lima, the wife of the Brazilian ambassador. Brandreth had lunch with the women in the aftermath, who noted that they helped craft replies to Prince Philip's letters. When Diana failed to turn up to a meeting with her in-laws to discuss her marriage to Charles, it prompted Prince Philip to write a series of letters to her that upset the princess Brandreth wrote that the Queen and Prince Philip counselled the unhappy couple to search for a compromise, 'to think less of themselves and more of others, to try to work together to revive their marriage for their own sakes, for the sake of their boys' A Royal Family day out in 1988, as they visit a museum in Sandringham, along with Princess's Anne's son, Peter Philips (in suit, next to Prince Harry). Prince William is out of shot exploring a fire engine The correspondence between Philip and his daughter-in-law continued for more than a year. They were good letters, said Lucia, emphatically, Hes a good man. Rosa Monckton agreed. Actually, he was pretty wonderful, she said. All he was trying to do was help. And Diana knew that. But according to the Princesss former butler, Paul Burrell, Diana found many of Philips letters brutal, and that hed plainly never understood her. To be fair, acknowledges Burrell, Prince Philip did more to save the marriage than Prince Charles. Diana and Charles separated in 1992, although they continued to carry out their royal duties. Biographer Andrew Morton wrote in his 2011 book, William And Catherine, that shortly before the formal separation announcement, Diana drove to Ludgrove, the prep school in Berkshire where William and Harry were boarders, to break the news to them first. 'The boys responses are instructive Harry seemed bewildered and almost indifferent, while his older brother burst into tears.' According to Andrew Morton, Princess Diana drove to Ludgrove, the prep school in Berkshire where William and Harry were boarders, to break the news to her children (the family pictured in 1995 at William's first day at Eton College) On April 9, 2005, Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles married in a civil ceremony in Windsor, followed by a Church of England Service of Prayer and Dedication at St George's Chapel This year, Camilla and Charles celebrated 20 years of marriage. In recent years, they have navigated the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the King's ill-health After 15 years of marriage, Charles and Diana divorced on August 28, 1996. On April 9, 2005, Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles married in a civil ceremony in Windsor, followed by a Church of England Service of Prayer and Dedication at St George's Chapel. The wedding, which was 35 years in the making, was described by the media as a 'fairytale for grown-ups'. This year they, celebrated 20 years of marriage and in recent years, they have navigated the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the King's ill-health. Royal correspondent Michael Cole once described Charles and Camilla as 'bookends' to one another as they 'hold each other up' and are 'very devoted to one another'. It seems that after all, King Charles did get his 'happily ever after'. Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more Lady Victoria Starmer turned heads during a visit to Scotland with her husband, Keir Starmer, and US President Donald Trump - and her outfit drew clear inspiration from the Princess of Wales. Victoria opted for an elegant ensemble, combining the Ashby Boucle Jacket and Eliza Pleated Skirt from Saint + Sofia. The look was reminiscent of the Dior two-piece Kate wore during French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron's state visit to the UK. Victoria's tailored cream jacket, featuring patch pockets and frayed edging, is handcrafted in Europe and exudes timeless luxury - a true wardrobe investment. It brought structure and sophistication to the voluminous skirt. While this pairing was perfect for a formal engagement, the jacket could just as easily elevate a pair of jeans on a more casual occasion. Saint + Sofia is known for its commitment to ethical fashion, partnering with family-owned factories in Europe and using sustainable materials along with biodegradable packaging. By streamlining their supply chain, optimising production processes and keeping overheads low, the brand is able to deliver premium-quality clothing at more accessible prices. Inspired by Victoria's refined style? You can shop her exact look or explore our favourite high street alternatives below. High street alternatives Jackets Thousands of giant tarantulas are set to emerge from the ground in five states starting next month. Wildlife officials warned the hordes will appear in parts of California, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico and Texas from August through October. The softball-sized spiders, while mostly harmless to humans, can still bite, flick irritating hairs, or cause alarm as they wander through campsites, backyards, and across roads. Residents and visitors may spot the spiders crossing roads in groups or creeping across campsites and backyards. In some places, tarantulas are expected to appear by the dozens, marching in loose lines across roads like tiny brown tanks. Unlike most desert animals that avoid heat by hiding, these tarantulas come out when the late-summer rains begin. The sudden rise in moisture and shift in temperature signal it is time to find a mate. Dan McCamish, a senior environmental scientist with California State Parks, said: 'They're typically out from late evening into early dawn, that's when visitors tend to see them.' There are 29 different tarantula species in the US. Texas alone is home to at least 14 of them There are 29 different tarantula species in the US. Texas alone is home to at least 14 of them. The Austin American-Statesman reported that Texas is bracing for a full-blown mating season, with tarantulas popping up across South Texas grasslands and deserts. In Colorado, the town of La Junta actively encourages people to visit during mating season to observe the tarantulas. La Junta Tourism said: 'Ideal places to look for those males are south of La Junta on highways and county roads before sunset.' 'Comanche National Grassland is a good place to spot them as well,' they added. The most commonly seen species is the Aphonopelma, also known as the Colorado Brown Tarantula, a dark brown to black spider. In California's Tri-Valley, tarantulas turn up in places like Mount Diablo State Park, Del Valle Regional Park and Sunol Regional Wilderness. Moreover, in Kansas, sightings are most common in the south and west, especially around the Red Hills and the grasslands of Chautauqua and Elk counties. Wildlife officials said the annual mass movement of tarantulas is expected to peak from now through October. New Mexico is home to six different tarantula species, including the Texas brown, desert blonde (or Arizona blonde), Grand Canyon black tarantula, and a newly discovered species named Aphonopelma jacobsican. They will be spotted along the Rio Grande Gorge, West Rim Road, and near Tres Piedras, with their range extending from Valencia County to Taos and Albuquerque. Wildlife officials said the male spiders are the ones seen crawling across the roads, sometimes up to 20 miles, while the females stay close to their burrows, waiting to attract a male partner through their chemical scents known as pheromones. Dr Lauren Davidson, a Texas-based entomologist and spider expert, said: 'They're just out looking for love, let them go find a girlfriend. Female tarantulas live the longest, up to 25 years, while the male spiders live just for a few years and die just after mating. In some cases, the female spider eats the male tarantulas after their breeding, if she is hungry. If fertilization is successful, the female lays up to 3,000 eggs in a sticky white sac, which she guards until the spiderlings hatch. The spiders are venomous, but their bites are not deadly to humans. Experts said tarantulas can climb low trees and jump nearly two feet, but they are not aggressive and won't attack unless provoked. 'If it starts coming towards you, give it some space. It might be defending its eggs, or you might have interrupted a mating ritual between a male and female,' McCamish said. Touching a tarantula can also be painful because of the barbed hairs on its abdomen called urticating hairs. McCamish said: 'They can actually flick those hairs off their back feet like darts.' 'If they get on your skin, or worse, in your eye, it can cause serious irritation,' he warned. Experts advise brushing the hair off with a towel, cloth, or even duct tape to prevent lingering irritation. Humans have been searching for Atlantis for thousands of years. Now one archaeologist believes the long-lost city may be hiding along the coast of southern Spain. Michael Donnellan has been investigating the area around Cadiz, a city in Andalusia, which he claims 'perfectly matches' Plato's description of Atlantis that was swallowed by the sea more than 11,600 years ago. 'Bordering on the sea and extending through the center of the whole island there was a plain, which is said to have been the fairest of all plains and highly fertile; and, moreover, near the plain, over against its center... there stood a mountain that was low on all sides,' Plato wrote in Critias. 'Cadiz sits on an extremely flat plain, just as Plato said,' Donnellan explained to the Daily Mail. 'It stretches out on a continental shelf and then drops off into the Atlantic, just like the description of Atlantis.' Plato first introduced Atlantis in his dialogues Timaeus and Critias, written around 360 BC. He described it as a technologically advanced society that existed 9,000 years before his time, placing it over 11,000 years ago. For centuries, the mystery of Atlantis has captivated explorers and scholars alike, but one archaeologist now believes the legendary city may have once stood along Spain's southern coast in the city of Cadiz (pictured) Michael Donnellan, who has been investigating the Spanish city for eight years, noted that Plato talked about horses in Atlantis, saying that the region is home to the oldest breed (pictured) One key detail Plato highlighted was the abundance of wildlife, including elephants, horses and bulls, which Donnellan said aligns perfectly with the archaeological record of southern Spain. 'The original horse in this area is believed to be the oldest breed in the world,' he said. 'Same with the bull, the fighting bull from Andalusia traces back thousands of years.' Donnellan added there was also a prehistoric ivory trade through this part of Spain, noting that three types of elephants lived there, including Asian elephants, which suggested there was international commerce between this region and Asia. He recently announced the discovery of 'long linear structures' etched across the ocean floor off the coast of Cadiz, which he believes was once home to a lost Atlantic civilization. The structures formed a series of 'enormous concentric circular walls,' each standing more than 20ft tall and arranged in an organized pattern. Plato's writings describe an advanced civilization that built grand temples and massive harbor walls before being swallowed by the sea more than 11,600 years ago The outermost wall showed the most damage, as if it had been pummeled by a massive tsunami racing in from the sea. The second and third walls, he said, were 'completely displaced,' with scans showing them split into two. Between the walls sat intricately carved canals and at the center was a rectangular ruin that, according to Donnellan, echoes Plato's description of Poseidon's temple, forming what he believes is the capital city of Atlantis. Now, Donnellan has shared more details about Cadiz that he is sure matches Plato's writings. Plato described Atlantis as featuring a vast, fertile plain '3,000 stadia long and 2,000 stadia wide, roughly 340 miles by 230 miles, surrounded by towering mountains.' Donnellan pointed to a set of massive, carved-out caves overlooking the coast, more than 600 feet above sea level. Massive structures were found around 65 feet below the surface. The team also identified 'long, linear structures' etched across the ocean floor 'You see a cliff ledge inland and three perfectly aligned caves, and 65 feet lower are two more perfectly aligned caves,' he said, adding that another cave sits another 65 feet below those. However, he said there are 'thousands, upon thousands of these man-made caves,' which he believes were possibly built by survivors of an ancient cataclysm. 'People talk about cavemen as the first people,' Donnellan said. 'But I think the cavemen were survivors. 'After some kind of impact event, everyone living along the coast vanished. The people who made it fled into the mountains.' Cadiz is also home to the oldest horse breed in the world, the Caspian horse, which originated in Iran and has remains dating back to 3,400 BC. While Plato does not mention a specific breed of horse, he wrote that members of the ancient Atlantic civilization 'had a great number of chariots and horses and a large cavalry force.' Plato described Atlantis as a vast, fertile plain stretching roughly 340 by 230 miles and surrounded by towering mountains, a vision that Donnellan links to a series of massive, carved-out caves perched over 600 feet above the southern Spanish coast Donnellan described a cliff ledge inland where three caves are precisely aligned, with two more positioned 65 feet below them, and yet another cave located an additional 65 feet beneath that second level The native bull, the Vaca Marismena, is among the oldest cattle breeds in Spain with genetic ties to ancient Iberian livestock dating back around 7,000 to 6,000 BC. 'He talks about another animal which helped in the daily running of this empire, which was the elephant,' Donnellan said. 'There was already a colony of elephants in the region, studies have confirmed this, and we know there was a prehistoric ivory trade throughout this entire part of Andalusia.' Some researchers have argued that the presence of Asian elephant remains or ivory in southern Spain suggests prehistoric trade routes between Europe and Asia, supporting claims of early international commerce. Plato wrote the entire island was wiped out by a massive earthquake and flood, disappearing beneath the waves. 'Plato words it very well,' Donnellan said. The archaeologist admits historians do not know what caused the terrible events, but pointed to the idea of the Younger Dryas, a controversial period proposed to have ended around 11,600 BC. While not widely accepted by mainstream scholars, some fringe researchers have linked it to a cataclysmic event that may have wiped out Atlantis. Cats and dogs are notorious for not getting on with each other. While one has a loud bark, the other has sharp claws often leading to hilarious standoffs between the animals. But this adorable pair are exceptions to the rule. An Australian zoo has recruited a puppy to help socialise a cheetah cub after she had to be separated from her mother. A video shows the pair playing happily together, in scenes reminiscent of the hit film Homeward Bound. The 1993 American adventure film features a trio of two dogs Chance and Shadow and a cat Sassy who get lost. While they initially don't have a strong bond, the trio develop a close relationship throughout their journey. Now, new footage shows a young cheetah cub, Rozi, and Ziggy the labradorkelpiecollie mix, showing that close bonds and friendship truly can transcend species. An Australian zoo has recruited a puppy to help socialise a cheetah cub after she had to be separated from her mother Rozi's name means rose, a symbol of joy in Swahili. Keepers decided to find her a friend to avoid the threat of living in isolation for 18 months The friendship between (big) cat and dog is reminiscent of that portrayed in the hit film Homeward Bound (pictured) Rozi was born in February at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, Australia, by emergency Csection after her mother Siri went into labour early. Sadly, the two had to be separated as Siri never produced milk and Rozi was critically unwell for the first weeks of her life. Rozi's two siblings were stillborn, and so to prevent her being lonely and facing the prospect of 18 months in isolation, keepers decided to find her a stepsibling. She was introduced to Ziggy when they were both around two months old under the careful handling and supervision of zoo staff. But it wasn't long until the pair were playing freely and snoozing together. 'They match each other so well with their energy level, the type of play that they do and their size,' Jordan Michelmore, a zookeeper at Western Plains Zoo, told New Scientist. 'The dopeyness, the lightheartedness and the looseness of a puppy seem to match Rozi pretty well for this stage of life.' In a video, shared online by the zoo, she added: 'The pair of them have now become best friends, and it's beautiful to watch their relationship develop. Keepers decided that Ziggy would be the perfect stepsibling for Rozi, as both of her siblings were stillborn The pair even snuggle up at night to sleep together showing the strong bond of friendship and trust they have formed Playful footage shows the young cub, Rozi, and Ziggy the labradorkelpiecollie mix showing that close bonds and friendship truly can transcend species Cheetah facts Cheetahs are the fastest land animals, capable of reaching speeds up to 70 mph (112 km/h) Cheetahs have semiretractable claws that act like the studs or cleats of running shoes, giving them traction during highspeed chases Unlike other big cats, cheetahs cannot roar. Instead, they make a variety of chirps, purrs, and highpitched calls. A cheetah's spots are as unique as human fingerprints no two cheetahs have the same pattern. Adult cheetahs typically weigh between 75 and 140 pounds Cheetahs are considered vulnerable to extinction Advertisement 'They'll chase each other, she'll stalk Ziggy and pounce on him and he'll chase her.' She revealed this is not the first time the zoo has introduced a cheetah cub to man's best friend. Siri, Rozi's mother, was also a single cub, and became incredibly close with a puppy she was introduced as a youngster. 'Now it does truly feel full circle,' Ms Michelmore said. Ziggy, who keepers describe as an 'annoying big brother', is 'truly a wonderful dog' who has the 'perfect nature' for the job. His role at the zoo will last 'around a year' roughly the same amount of time that cheetah cubs spend with their siblings. This is the time when female cheetah cubs usually become solitary, the keepers said. At this point, Ziggy will be adopted. 'Our goal is for Rozi to join our cheetah breeding program,' Ms Michelmore added. 'So by having these kinds of relationships now with the puppy, it builds her confidence and social skills. 'In the future, when hopefully she'll get introduced to a male cheetah for breeding, hopefully she'll have that confidence and that socialisation.' Rozi was critically unwell for the first weeks of her life, and her mother did not produce any milk Archive footage shows Rozi's mother Siri playing with a puppy when she was a cub. Keepers said the new friendship represents a 'full circle' moment In an online post, the zoo said: 'Both cub and puppy are living behind the scenes at the Zoo's Cheetah breeding facility, and it's hoped that Rozi will one day play a part in the regional breeding program for her vulnerable species. Rozi's name means rose, a symbol of joy in Swahili, and there's no doubt both her and Ziggy are bringing joy to all of us here at Taronga Western Plains Zoo.' Cheetahs are classified as vulnerable in the wild with fewer than 7,000 mature individuals remaining. Wild populations continue to decline due to humanwildlife conflict, loss of habitat and habitat fragmentation, poaching and illegal wildlife trafficking. Cheetahs are also notoriously difficult to breed, so every birth is extremely valuable to the global population. Taronga Western Plains Zoo is part of the international Cheetah breeding program, and the first Australasian zoo to breed the species. It's one of the most popular Android handsets around the world. But if you own a Google Pixel 6a, you might want to consider upgrading to a different model. Several Pixel 6a devices have exploded - with at least five reports to date, according to Android Authority. Four of these explosions happened earlier this year, prompting Google to release a mandatory update this month. While the update was supposed to prevent battery heating issues, it seems it may have had the reverse effect. Taking to Reddit this week, one user revealed that their Pixel 6a 'caught fire right next to me on the nightstand' after they installed the update. The shocked user, @footymanageraddict, posted photos of the damage, describing it as a 'terrible experience all around.' 'I was lucky that the battery side was away from me and not facing towards me,' they added. Taking to Reddit this week, one user revealed that their Pixel 6a 'caught fire right next to me on the nightstand' after they installed the update The shocked user, @footymanageraddict, posted photos of the damage, describing it as a 'terrible experience all around. On July 2, Google launched a mandatory software update for Pixel 6a phones, following reports of batteries overheating. 'Google has determined that certain Pixel 6a phones (Impacted Devices) require a mandatory software update to reduce the risk of potential battery overheating which could pose a risk to users,' it explained on its support page. 'The update will enable important battery management features that will reduce battery capacity and charging performance on Impacted Devices after the battery reaches 400 charge cycles.' The tech giant also offered Pixel 6a users free battery replacements at walk-in repair centers in the US, Canada, UK, Germany, Singapore, Japan, and India. As @footymanageraddict did not live in one of these countries, they opted for the software update. However, on July 26, their smartphone caught on fire anyway, having been on charge overnight. 'I got woken up with a horrible smell and a loud noise,' they explained on Reddit. 'Fire had already started and i managed to throw the phone on the tile floor pulling it by the cord. On July 2, Google launched a mandatory software update for Pixel 6a phones, following reports on batteries overheating After the fire subsided, the Redditor managed to take photos of the damage - revealing a melted screen, charred internals, and a partially melted case (pictured) 'The phone was sitting less than 40 cms away from my head on my nightstand. 'Sheets caught on fire. My ac (a floor unit) had damages on its surface from the fire. 'My throat hurt the whole day from the fumes i inhaled (My room door was closed because of the ac being on so i basically breathed the smoke for a longer time than i would want trying to stop a fire from spreading).' After the fire subsided, the Redditor managed to take photos of the damage - revealing a melted screen, charred internals, and a partially melted case. Taking to the comments, several other Pixel 6a users have reported their devices overheating after the update. 'mine reaches upwards of 140 degrees while charging and 120 during normal use, this is after the update. idk [I don't know] if it made it better or worse,' one user replied. Another added: 'I feel like their update that nerfed the battery actually made it worse. I never had any overheating issues with my 6a, then after the update it started getting super hot. I got the battery replacement and it's fine now.' And one wrote: 'Google should recall all the units with the battery problem and also reimburse us the full price of the phone. This is unacceptable. I own a Pixel 6A and now im concerned even having it let alone use it.' Google is yet to comment on the latest incident, although MailOnline has contacted them for further information. Archaeologists examining a 4,400-year-old ancient Egyptian tomb have made a groundbreaking discovery. The catacomb, which belonged to prince called Userefre (unknown before this find), features a large pink granite 'false door' the largest ever discovered in Egypt. The door, which measures 15 feet high and 4 feet wide resembles a functional door but does not actually open. Instead experts believe it held profound spiritual significance serving as a symbolic portal through which the soul of the dead could travel to the afterlife. This 'gateway' demonstrates how considerable time and resources were dedicated to achieving eternal rest. The discovery, in Egypt's Saqqara necropolis, was made during an excavation mission led by Dr Zahi Hawass, former Minister of Antiquities. The door is decorated with hieroglyphic inscriptions detailing Prince Userefre's impressive titles, including 'Hereditary Prince, Governor of the Buto and Nekhbet Regions, Royal Scribe, Minister, Judge, and Chanting Priest.' The royal, who also went by Prince Waser-If-Re according to the inscriptions, was the son of King Userkaf, who was the founder of Egypt's Fifth dynasty. Archaeologists working in Egypt came across a large, pink granite door inside the tomb of a prince. Not only that, they also unearthed a a red granite offering table Archaeologists also found 13 high-backed chairs, each of which featured statues carved out of pink granite too Despite his many titles, the prince and his tomb were previously unknown to scholars. 'Before this discovery, we didn't even know he existed,' Ronald Leprohon, professor emeritus of Egyptology at the University of Toronto, told The Archaeologist. Dr Melanie Pitkin, from Cambridge University, has previously explained how false doors were intended to serve as portals that allowed the life force or 'ka' of the deceased to move back and forth between the tomb and the afterlife. 'Family members and priests would come to the tomb where the false door was standing and they would recite the name of the deceased and his or her achievements and leave offerings,' she said. 'The ka of the deceased would then magically travel between the burial chamber and the netherworld. 'It would come and collect the food, drink, and offerings from the tomb to help sustain it in the afterlife.' Alongside the false door, archaeologists also found 13 highbacked chairs, each of which featured statues carved out of pink granite too. Most false doors discovered in Egyptian tombs are made of limestone, which was abundant at the time. Hieroglyphs found inside the tomb, which dates back more than 4,000 years to the Fifth dynasty The discovery, in Egypt's Saqqara necropolis, was made during an excavation mission led by Dr Zahi Hawass, former Minister of Antiquities The tomb also had a massive black granite statue of a standing man. The owner of this statue whose name was inscribed on its chest appears to date to a more recent time period, indicating the tomb may have been reused Pink and red granite was a rarity and had to be quarried and transported from Aswan around 650km away. As a result, it was reserved for royalty. The imposing size of this particular false door reflects Prince Userefre's elevated status within the royal hierarchy. The archaeologists also found a red granite offering table measuring 92.5cm in diameter, featuring carved texts describing ritual sacrifice. The tomb also had a massive black granite statue of a standing man, measuring 1.17 metres tall. The owner of this statue whose name was inscribed on its chest appears to date to a more recent time period, indicating the tomb may have been reused. Scientists working at the site are still looking to locate the prince's actual burial chamber. The most popular episode of Joe Rogan's podcast has been credited with inspiring the viral movement to storm the gates of Area 51 in the summer of 2019. Netflix released a new episode of its 'Trainwreck' documentary that featured Matty Roberts, who organized the Facebook campaign 'Storm Area 51, They Can't Stop All Of Us,' which saw two million people commit to rushing the Nevada base. Roberts said the idea came after he watched Area 51 whistleblower Bob Lazar, who claimed to have worked on projects involving the reverse-engineering of extraterrestrial spacecraft while staffed at the base in 1989. Lazar's viral sit-down with Rogan further detailed what he did at the facility, including his work on an extraterrestrial 'anti-matter reactor,' working on advanced flying saucers built by the military, and climbing inside a real UFO. The June 2019 has been viewed over 64 million times, the most of any of Rogan's episodes. 'I thought, 'Oh, my God, this finally explains the flying saucers stories,' Roberts said. Excited by what he heard during that two-hour interview, he sent out a rallying cry on social media on July 27, 2019, hoping he would find others eager to force the government to admit that aliens and UFOs were real. 'It just seemed like a hilarious idea to me,' Roberts said in the docuseries Trainwreck. After just three days on Facebook, Roberts' call to charge the gates of the US Air Force facility turned into an internet sensation. Matty Roberts (pictured) organized a Facebook event called 'Storm Area 51, they can't stop all of us' in 2019 Above, a satellite view of Area 51. The US Air Force facility is a remote detachment of Edwards Air Force Base, within the Nevada Test and Training Range Area 51 has been tied to extraterrestrial lore for decades, with UFO researchers and conspiracy theorists claiming that secret government projects have been conducted there since the 1950s. However, it wasn't until Lazar's 1989 interview with investigative reporter George Knapp on Las Vegas TV station KLAS that the classified base became nationally famous. Lazar has maintained for 35 years that he was a government physicist who worked at S-4, roughly 15 miles from the main Area 51 complex, reverse-engineering alien spacecraft and extraterrestrial technology. 'When did things get weird? At what point in time did you say hey this is not normal work like this doesn't even seem like it's from this planet?' Rogan asked Lazar during their 2019 conversation. 'There's this facility that is at S4. It's in the side of a mountain,' Lazar described. 'I went into the hangar door and in the hangar door was the disc, the flying saucer that I worked on. I saw it sitting there and we walked by, it had a little American flag stuck on the side,' he continued. 'I thought oh my God this finally explains all the flying saucer stories this is just an advanced fighter,' the engineer told Rogan. Even after that interview, the Air Force kept a tight lid on what was happening in the desert until 2013, when the CIA finally admitted Area 51 really existed. Bob Lazar (pictured) has maintained that he worked on alien craft and other technology at Area 51 since 1989 Daily Mail has reached to Joe Rogan for comment regarding Roberts' comments about the Lazar interview. Roberts revealed that his entire campaign just started out as a gag for the few followers he had on social media. 'Jokes are funnier when they're edgy. So, I'm going to make it sound like a real call to arms,' he said in the Netflix special. 'I just thought it would be a funny post for my page of 40 followers,' he added. 'I didn't think it would go anywhere.' However, the viral invitation quickly drew the attention of the US government, who took the possibility of two million people rushing the gates of Area 51 very seriously. The federal government reportedly spent $11 million reinforcing the security around Area 51 before the September 20 event. Roberts revealed that the FBI questioned him after he posted the event on Facebook. The military even warned anyone attending the gathering that deadly force would be used to keep the base secure. 'I had no idea what I'd started,' Roberts added. Roberts' Facebook event to storm Area 51 was RSVP'd by 2 million people in the summer of 2019 The small crowd began forming at 3am outside Area 51, and only 2 people were detained by police While the federal government and US military was ready for a showdown at the top secret base, it turned out that the public wasn't. Of the two million people who RVSP'd for Roberts' attempt to storm Area 51, only 150 people showed up. 'We're about to storm one of the most heavily guarded military bases in the world. Why? Because the internet told us to,' another attendee commented in the docuseries. Only a few thousand people traveled to the towns closest to Area 51, like Rachel, Hiko and Alamo, but they never met at the base. According to the new documentary, this came as a great relief to the roughly 50 residents of Rachel, who feared they were about to be overrun by more than a million visitors. Only 150 people showed up at Area 51 on the day of the 2019 event Only half of the 150 people who showed up at the 2019 event actually ran towards the gates of Area 51 According to Forbes, only two individuals were detained by local sheriff's deputies, but a reason was not given at the time. While Roberts and the 150 attendees never got past the main gate of Area 51 in 2019, the site has continued to draw unstop speculation that the US government working with extraterrestrial technology there. Several of Rogan's podcast guests since the Lazar interview have stated that they believe UFOs are studied at that facility and others throughout the US. Unbelievable footage captures 'Nessie's head popping out of the water' in the mythical monster's first sighting of the summer. A visitor known only as Livia captured the video on July 16 while walking at Urquhart Castle, on the shores of Loch Ness. In her footage, a black shape is seen rising and sinking in the water, seeming to move against the current. One spectator is heard to say: 'That's something, that's not just a twig that's going in and out'. Another exclaims: 'What on Earth!' Nagina Ishaq, general manager at The Loch Ness Centre, said it could be the loch's most famous resident making an appearance. She said: 'It's always exciting when a new sighting sparks fresh curiosity and conversation around the loch. 'Livia's video has certainly got people talking, whether it's a seal, a tree, or potentially the monster's head popping out of the water. Jaw-dropping footage captures 'Nessie's head popping out of the water' in the mythical monster's first sighting of the summer Livia captured the video on July 16 while walking at Urquhart Castle, on the shores of Loch Ness 'We're all eagerly awaiting further sightings that might help shed more light on what could be out there.' The sighting is the first reported appearance of the monster since May. It comes as The Loch Ness Centre welcomes a new skipper for its research vessel, Deepscan, which uses sonar technology to probe the water's depths. The new captain, Steve Glew, was born in Yorkshire and raised on the Isle of Arran and has lived in the Highlands for more than 20 years. He also claims to have had his own brush with the beast in 2019 when piloting a speedboat south along the loch on a calm, sunny morning. He said: 'Suddenly, the classic humps emerged from the water, then vanished, only to resurface a few more times. 'I quickly grabbed my phone and managed to get an image of what looked like a distinct, dark mass rising from the surface. 'To this day, I believe I caught a glimpse of the monster itself.' The Loch Ness Centre welcomes a new skipper for its research vessel, Deepscan, which uses sonar technology to probe the water's depths A black shape is seen rising and sinking in the water, seeming to move against the current A photo captured by Mr Glew shows a humped black shape at the water's surface. Steve added: 'I hope Deepscan continues to break new ground in exploring the place we live and work. 'We've still only dipped our toe into the mysteries that lie beneath the waters of the loch and I'm sure there are still secrets waiting to be discovered.' Steve, a qualified powerboat instructor since 2003 and advanced powerboat operator since 2004, first skippered on Loch Ness over 20 years ago. Nagina said: 'Steve brings an authentic connection to the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, having both skippered these waters for years and witnessed something remarkable himself. 'His deep knowledge of the loch and love for the mystery make him the perfect host for our Loch Ness cruise experience.' A dangerous new scam is quietly sweeping across the United States, and all it takes is a quick scan of a QR code to potentially empty your bank account. Cybersecurity experts are warning of a sharp rise in 'quishing,' a form of phishing that uses malicious QR codes to trick users into handing over personal information, credit card details, and banking credentials. According to a recent report, more than 26 million Americans have already been duped by the scam, and the number is rising rapidly. QR codes, or 'quick response' codes, are commonly used by businesses to allow customers to access websites, menus, or payment portals simply by scanning the code with a smartphone. But criminals are now exploiting this convenience by placing counterfeit QR codes over real ones in high-traffic areas, such as parking meters, public transportation signs, restaurant tables, and even on delivery packages. Dustin Brewer, senior director of proactive cybersecurity at BlueVoyant, said: 'The most dangerous part is they are hiding in plain sight. Attackers can just print their own QR code and paste it over a real one, and you'll never know the difference.' Once scanned, the fraudulent QR codes often lead to lookalike websites designed to steal login credentials or financial data. Others may install malicious software onto the user's phone without them realizing it. Experts said many fake codes are printed on low-quality stickers or appear slightly misaligned when pasted over legitimate ones. If the design seems inconsistent with a brand's usual look or appears to be hastily added, it could be a red flag. A QR code is a type of barcode that, when scanned with a smartphone, can open a website, display a message, or make a payment 'These scams are low-effort but have a very high return,' Brewer said. 'Because QR codes are now everywhere, from gas pumps to flyers, people do not question them. That's exactly what scammers are counting on,' he warned. In Miami, city officials uncovered fake QR codes at seven different locations and removed more than 7,000 fraudulent stickers earlier this year. The city's Parking Authority reported that scammers had been placing counterfeit QR codes on parking meters, tricking drivers into entering their credit card information on fake payment websites that closely mimicked official portals. The scam extends beyond public infrastructure. In one case reported by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), victims received mysterious packages containing fake 'gifts' and a QR code labeled with a message prompting them to scan to find out who sent it. Instead, the code redirected users to phishing websites disguised as delivery return forms, which then requested login credentials or credit card information. Experts have also raised concerns that some of these fake QR codes can install malware onto users' phones, granting attackers full remote access without the victim's knowledge. These malicious programs can silently collect sensitive data, track activity, or even hijack device functions. A recent report from cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes found that 70 percent of iPhone users have scanned QR codes to make or complete a purchase, compared to 63 percent of Android users. Quishing (QR code phishing) is a scam where criminals exploit these harmless-looking symbols to trick people into visiting fake websites Cybersecurity specialists also warn that attackers are embedding malicious QR codes into PDF attachments in phishing emails. Some of these emails impersonate trusted companies such as Microsoft or Adobe, further increasing the likelihood that unsuspecting recipients will scan the code and fall victim to the scam. In one of the ongoing scam, reported by Cisco, fraudsters are emailing QR codes disguised as a two-factor authentication reset requests to thousands of employees, tricking them into handing over internal access. To protect yourself, experts suggested to never scan QR codes from unknown sources, especially in emails, texts, or physical mail. Since most smartphones now display a preview of the website before opening it, cybersecurity experts recommend always checking that the link begins with 'https://' and appears to be a legitimate web address. If the URL is misspelled, unfamiliar, or suspicious, officials warn: do not click. Users should also be wary of QR codes found on public surfaces or signage, especially if they appear tampered with, are printed on stickers, or do not match the branding around them. According to cybersecurity officials, a genuine QR code from a business will often include the company's logo, colors, or a short description of what to expect when scanning. For example, museums and educational institutions increasingly label QR codes with preview information to help guide visitors. If scanning a QR code prompts a login reset, a request for two-factor authentication details, or an offer that seems unusually generous, experts say it's likely a scam. One rising tactic involves phishing pages disguised as Microsoft login portals or fake multifactor authentication resets, which can trick users into handing over sensitive credentials. With global QR code payments expected to surpass $3 trillion in 2025, cybersecurity analysts warn that these scams will only continue to rise unless public awareness catches up. Officials are urging Americans to stay vigilant and double-check any QR code, even those that appear official, before scanning. 'QR codes weren't built with security in mind,' said Rob Lee, chief researcher at the SANS Institute. 'They were built to make life easier, which also makes them perfect for scammers.' A former NASA engineer has made sensational claims that humans are not only reverse-engineering alien technology, but that trillions of invisible extraterrestrial devices may already be hidden across the planet. Richard Banduric, CEO of Field Propulsion Technologies and a former propulsion engineer for NASA and Lockheed Martin, shared the shocking allegations during a December 2024 episode of the Ecosystemic Futures podcast, which has recently resurfaced on social media platform X. In the interview, Banduric described a covert effort by the US government and private research groups to study advanced materials allegedly recovered from unidentified flying objects. He claimed that many of these mysterious objects were not simply crash debris, but part of what he suspects is a vast, invisible sensor network scattered around the world. The engineer admitted he didnt know who had placed the devices, but said they were unlike anything ever seen, not just decades ahead of current technology, but hundreds of years beyond it. He described one such device as a 'sliver of metal' that could reconfigure and camouflage itself depending on its surroundings. 'It would cloak itself and try to blend into the environment,' he said. 'That's how we could tell it was extraterrestrial.' Despite the bold claims, Banduric offered no physical evidence to support them. His comments have reignited online speculation about UFO disclosure, with some users calling 2024 the year 'disclosure really happened.' The Pentagon, however, continues to deny the existence of any alien retrieval programs or confirmed contact with extraterrestrial life. Richard Banduric (pictured) revealed what he knew about US efforts to reverse engineer alien technology in December 2024 As for why some advanced group would be scattering tiny objects as part of a global monitoring system, the engineer claimed that extraterrestrials could be trying to influence human society. 'They have all sorts of functions. This really implies that maybe this group is actually manipulating our species,' Banduric warned in his first public comments. Since the 2024 podcast, he and other guests, including UFO researcher Hal Puthoff and former NASA advisor Dr Anna Brady-Estevez, have continued to share details of humanity's attempt to reverse engineer alien technology. He added that it was still possible to acquire these cloaked devices scattered around the world, but his access had been cut off by the groups he was working with after he chose to go public with what he knew in 2024. Banduric had originally been recruited by the US Department of Defense and the Air Force to work on classified projects aimed at analyzing systems from crashed UFOs. However, he noted that these technologies weren't being used by the US government. Instead, it was non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that were studying most of the recovered alien technology. 'Some of that work I was doing with NGOs was really exciting. But one of the other things that comes out of this is that these individuals, or whoever this group is that has this advanced technology, probably does not want us reverse-engineering what they're working on,' Banduric explained. To stop other groups or governments from utilizing these materials, scientists discovered that the unknown metals could break apart into tiny particles that couldn't be reactivated. Banduric said that most of the technology from crashed UFOs was being studied and taken apart by non-government groups, not the military (Stock Image) 'They were smart materials. You'd be looking at them and trying to reverse engineer them, they would turn to dust,' the engineer revealed. 'They would do it within a minute or two. Then, you could take the dust, send it off, and get isotropic analysis done on it. It turned out they were extraterrestrial,' he disclosed. According to Banduric, NGO scientists continued to run into these problems, suggesting that the technology was carefully constructed so that no one would be able to duplicate what they found. Along with being able to self-destruct, scientists examining these materials also found they could bend light around them, projecting the image of whatever was behind the extraterrestrial material in front so no one could see what was there, Banduric claimed. Along with potentially trillions of smaller objects seeded throughout the world, the former government engineer revealed that the US was aware of giant triangle-shaped craft that could use this cloaking technology as well. The giant triangles Banduric referred to have been described by many people reporting UFO sightings of the years. The engineer noted that they were 'not ours,' implying the triangles scientists were observing were extraterrestrial craft which appeared to vanish after being spotted. In April, former US national security official Matthew Brown disclosed that classified mission reports he read revealed how a large black triangle-shaped UFO 'decloaked' out of thin air over several Russian vessels in the Pacific. 'The [NGOs] I worked with were trying to figure out how these rather large craft, which people call triangles, would be able to disappear on a dime,' Banduric explained. 'These triangles were taking whatever was behind them and actually projecting it in front of them, which might be equivalent to taking the light rays and bending it around the actual triangle,' he added. Although Banduric did not reveal how many of these craft had been seen or were in the possession of the US government, another guest on the Ecosystemic Futures podcast did. Dr Puthoff noted that the US military had recovered and were studying at least 10 extraterrestrial craft since the 1940s. While much of the US has been sweltering under above-average temperatures, a major shift in the weather is on the way, set to bring significant relief from the heat. Forecasters predict temperatures could drop by nearly 20 degrees later this week, thanks to an expansive area of high pressure moving in from Canada. Cooler conditions will first reach the north-central United States on Wednesday, with a gradual cooldown spreading across much of the eastern half of the country in the days that follow. By Thursday, highs in the 70s are expected across wide portions of the Plains, Midwest, Northeast, and parts of the Ohio Valley. Friday is shaping up to be the coolest day of the week for many in the Midwest, Ohio Valley, and Northeast. In New York City, highs will only reach the mid-to-upper 70s, a sharp contrast to the mid-90s earlier in the week and more typical of early June than early August. The same pattern bringing cooler air is also expected to trigger rounds of heavy rain and thunderstorms, raising the risk of flash flooding in areas already saturated from earlier summer storms. Flood threats will be most prominent in parts of the Midwest, along the Gulf Coast and across the Northeast. While much of the US has been enduring above-average heat, a major pattern shift is on the horizon, expected to bring widespread and significant relief from the high temperatures More than 150 million people from the central US to the East Coast are currently under a Level 3 of 4 or Level 4 of 4 heat risk, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). 'Be sure to limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated, and ensure access to A/C or cooling centers. Additionally, be sure to check on vulnerable family members, friends and neighbors,' the weather service said. By tomorrow, temperatures are expected to dip in the north-central US to parts of the Northeast. In Chicago, for instance, highs will climb into the 90s on Tuesday but are expected to struggle to reach 80 degrees by Wednesday. On Thursday, the high pressure system will reach parts of the Midwest, such as St Louis, Missouri that is facing above 90 temperatures. The city is set barely reach 80 degrees on Thursday. States in the South, such as Arkansas, could hit 100 degrees Tuesday and Wednesday, but see a dip to the mid-90s by Thursday. Following highs near 97 degrees on Tuesday and Wednesday, Washington, DC is forecast to see a significant cooldown, with temperatures expected to reach only the upper 70s on Friday, an uncommon occurrence for August. Forecasters expect temperatures to drop by nearly 20 degrees later this week as a large high-pressure system moves in from Canada. Cooler air will arrive in the north-central US on Wednesday, then spread across the eastern half of the country in the following days Typically, high temperatures in the nation's capital during this time of year remain in the 80s. Tropical moisture is expected to surge northward, fueling persistent downpours from parts of Tennessee into southern New England. Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are likely in areas where the heaviest and most sustained rain develops later this week. The NWS has also warned that high rainfall rates associated with widespread thunderstorms could lead to an increased risk of flash flooding. AccuWeather meteorologist Elizabeth Danco said: 'Flash flooding will be the primary hazard. 'Drenching thunderstorms could also bring reduced visibility, ponding on roads and slowed travel. There will also be a risk of locally damaging wind gusts and lightning strikes.' Heading into the weekend, temperatures in the East are forecast to run 5 to 10 degrees below normal, while much of the Plains will see highs 10 to 15 degrees below average, according to the NWS. Highs in the 70s are expected to extend as far south as Kansas and the Oklahoma Panhandle. Weather.com meteorologist Caitlin Kaiser said: 'Taking a peek even further into the first week of August, cooler-than-average temperatures are expected to stick around across much of the Great Lakes, Midwest and Northeast. A family's dream holiday was ruined after they were left stranded due to a booking blunder. Darren Tanser shared his nightmare experience on TikTok, @darrentanser, after he paid 6,000 for trip to Turkey. He raged: 'LoveHolidays are an absolute joke, I recommend none of you ever book with them at all. 'I spent 425 minutes throughout yesterday, which is seven hours, on the phone to LoveHolidays on and off, they never called me back once for any issue, I had to continuously call them.' The family had arrived at the hotel at 5am, only to be told their booking 'hadn't been secured'. Darren claimed they didn't receive a new hotel until midnight, before going on to explain his experience further. 'So I spent hours on the phone discussing new hotels with them, I gave them ten different hotel options that we'd be happy to transfer to,' he fumed. At 2pm that afternoon, Darren managed to agree on a hotel with LoveHolidays but the trouble didn't stop. Darren Tanser (pictured) shared his nightmare experience on TikTok , @darrentanser, after he paid 6,000 for trip to Turkey The family had arrived at the hotel at 5am, only to be told their booking 'hadn't been secured' (stock image) He went on to reveal he received an email saying payment was 'taking a bit longer than expected' for his new accommodation. Hours after the call, Darren was then told the booking was 'still being processed'. 'Baring in mind at this point, we're sat in a hotel that we don't have a booking for, the hotel don't want us there. We have no use of amenities, we can't shower, we can't brush our teeth, we can't do nothing and we've been here since 5am at this point and we're just stuck at the hotel,' he said. The holidaymaker also shared that his son had undergone 'two major brain surgeries' which complicated the situation as he had to make sure he wasn't 'over fatigued' or 'dehydrated'. 'We keep relaying this to them and they don't care,' the tourist added. At 8pm that evening, Darren was told by LoveHolidays the booking wouldn't process at that particular hotel because the 'payment wouldn't go through'. The family were offered another hotel which they refused because they had stayed previously and got food poisoning. 'We spent weeks and months researching the hotel we went to, to make sure it was perfect for the money we were spending,' he raged. Darren claimed they didn't receive a new hotel until midnight, before going on to explain his experience further 'We spent weeks and months researching the hotel we went to, to make sure it was perfect for the money we were spending,' he raged (stock image) The tourist explained the company kept rejecting his alternative hotel suggestions 'because of money'. He added: 'The problem was, trying to book a hotel for the night we want to stay is going to be more expensive, it's just how it is.' Eventually, at 10pm that evening, Darren was sent to one of his hotels of choice. However, the nightmare didn't end there. The Uber that LoveHolidays booked to transport the family to the new accommodation was cancelled and they had to arrange a taxi themselves. Though they eventually arrived at the hotel, Darren felt it wasn't quite up to scratch compared to their original booking. 'I think we checked in at midnight last night into a room that is nowhere near as luxurious as the room we had,' he explained. 'We booked a family suite with a swim-up room at the hotel we were staying at and now we're just in a bog standard room with two single beds and a double bed all in the same room. 'And rather than the beautiful views of looking over the beach and the pool I am overlooking what looks like a garage roof from the balcony.' Though they eventually arrived at the hotel, Darren felt it wasn't quite up to scratch compared to their original booking (stock image) He noted that his new hotel was 'highly rated' but felt it wasn't as 'calm' as the original. 'We told them, the kids and us had been awake by this point for like 43 hours with shower, no amenities, we couldn't easily get food, drink or anything, we were stuck at a hotel in the middle of nowhere and they just did not care at all,' Darren claimed. Despite the bad experience, Darren said his family were going to 'make the most' of the remaining days of their holiday. A loveholidays spokesperson said: 'We are very sorry that Mr Tanser and his family's experience fell short of our usual high standards after their hotel overbooked. 'Our On Holiday Support team was in touch with Mr Tanser on the day of arrival to book the family into an alternative five-star hotel, and we recognise this process took longer than usual due to limited availability in the destination. 'We have been in touch with Mr Tanser to apologise for the stress and inconvenience caused, and have offered him a significant compensation package to make up for this and cover the out-of-pocket expenses he incurred.' With millions of Brits on weight-loss injections, those taking them have been urged to consider how they will travel with the medication this summer. A trip to a tropical island or a European city break, whatever the destination, there's often lots to plan for. Head of Pharmacy at Chemist4U Jason Murphy has warned travellers on weight-loss jabs against storing them in the hotel fridge. He explained how such appliance is not 'medically safe'. The expert advised: 'If you're staying in a hotel, the mini bars in rooms are often more mildly cool than medically safe. 'And you don't want your jab snuggling up next to someone else's sparkling rose. Instead, contact the hotel in advance and ask to store your medication in a staff fridge.' Murphy recommends travellers not to 'just toss it in your suitcase and hope for the best'. Instead, he encourages people to think about intricacies such as the temperature it needs to be kept at and customs rules. With millions of Brits on weight-loss injections, those taking them have been urged to consider how they will travel with the medication this summer A trip to a tropical island or a European city break, whatever the destination, there's often lots to plan for Head of Pharmacy at Chemist4U Jason Murphy has warned travellers on weight-loss jabs against storing them in the hotel fridge Murphy said: 'Travelling with weight-loss medication isn't out of the question, but it does require some forward planning. 'You can't just toss it in your suitcase and hope for the best. Between time zone changes, storage issues, and customs restrictions, it's more of a 'carry-on mission' than most people realise.' He explained how weight-loss injections need to be kept in a refrigerator, but that some can be stored at room temperature for a limited time. 'These medications are designed to be kept refrigerated between 2C and 8C before use, but both Wegovy and Mounjaro can be stored at room temperature below 30C for a limited period,' Murphy said. 'That gives patients more flexibility when travelling, but it's still important to keep pens out of direct sunlight and away from excessive heat. 'I always advise using a medical-grade travel cool bag with ice packs, especially if you're flying to a hot destination.' The expert also advised against packing medication in hold luggage in case it was lost, as well as the added complication of the lack of temperature control. 'Never pack injections in checked baggage. Murphy recommends travellers not to 'just toss it in your suitcase and hope for the best' 'Luggage holds aren't temperature-controlled, and there's a risk of delays or loss,' he explained. Murphy continued: 'Carry your medication in your hand luggage, in its original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription or a signed letter from your prescriber or pharmacist - something we provide routinely for patients.' Travellers carrying medication also need to be aware of customs rules and what is allowed to enter certain destinations. The expert said: 'Some countries (such as, Japan, UAE, and Singapore) are strict about what medication crosses their border. 'In some cases, your jab may be considered a controlled substance, so you should always check embassy rules before you fly to save you a heap of holiday hassle.' He also explained how people may experience 'jet-lagged jabs' when the local time varies with the medication schedule the traveller may usually follow at home. Murphy said: 'If you're hopping multiple time zones, your injection routine may need a refresh. The pharmacist also advised against packing medication in hold luggage in case it was lost, as well as the added complication of the lack of temperature control 'Weight-loss injections are typically once weekly, but timing still matters.' He advised using techniques such as setting an alarm in line to ensure the medication is taken in line with the typical routine. The pharmacist added: 'I'd always suggest setting an alarm for your injection based on your original UK schedule, then gradually shift it to local time over a few days. 'You'll feel more in sync and avoid what we call "jet-lagged jabs".' Boasting pristine white sands and turquoise waters, Porthcurno Beach could be easily mistaken for a dreamy coastal destination in the Maldives. Located in west Cornwall, it ranked first for the best seaside area with warmer waters in a study. Porthcurno Beach is a National Trust site backed by granite cliffs and is known for its sands being made of crushed sea shells, with larger pieces often washing up along the shore. Iglu Cruise's study analysed TripAdvisor's top ten beaches in England alongside the average ocean temperatures in July, The Mirror reported. Porthcurno placed first and has been praised on the review site for being 'better than the Maldives' by one visitor. They wrote: 'One of the best beaches in Cornwall, just returned from a week and visited Praa Sands, Carbis Bay and Porthcurno and this was our favourite. 'Spend the morning at the Minack Theatre soaking up the history and amazing views and then head to the beach for white sand and great surf.' Another called it a 'gorgeous beach', gushing over the 'unbelievable views' and adding, 'the sea was clear like as if you were abroad'. Boasting pristine white sands and turquoise waters, Porthcurno Beach could be easily mistaken for a dreamy coastal destination in the Maldives Located in west Cornwall, it ranked first for the best seaside area with warmer waters, in research conducted by Iglu Cruise Someone else compared it to another tropical destination and said 'can you believe this is not the Caribbean!' Fistral Beach, also in Cornwall, followed Porthcurno in second place. Renowned as a perfect spot for surfing, the sandy beach boasts a backdrop of dunes and cliffs. Another Cornwall destination, Perranporth Beach, ranked third in the study. The seaside spot is three-miles long and is a popular choice for swimmers and surfers. Woolacombe Beach, in Devon, placed fourth with its golden sands and consistent waves. Tunnels Beaches ranked fifth. Visitors have to trek through a hand-carved historical tunnel to access its pebbled shore. In sixth place, Frinton-on-Sea Beach features and is located in Essex, followed by nearby Clacton-on-Sea Beach. Fistral Beach, also in Cornwall, followed Porthcurno in second place. Renowned as a perfect spot for surfing, the sandy beach boasts a backdrop of dunes and cliffs Woolacombe Beach, in Devon, placed fourth with its golden sands and consistent waves Crosby Beach in Merseyside ranked eighth, while Brighton Beach in East Sussex came ninth, with Camber Sands placing tenth. In another study, Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire, Wales, was named the most-loved beach. The location is often described as having 'views reminiscent of the Caribbean'. With a beautiful green backdrop, the remote beach has turquoise waters and a golden sandy shore that mirrors what one might find on a tropical island. A keen Disney fan was disappointed to discover a little-known rule at the popular resort that caused him issues in a bar. The tourist visited Ogas Cantina, a Star Wars-themed watering hole located in Galaxys Edge at Disneyland Park in California. Excited to try the unique drinks and concoctions, the 26-year-old entered with a digital copy of his passport and his provincial ID. However, he was dismayed when staff turned him away at the bar because of a Californian policy. Only a physical, original passport is acceptable as proof of age in the state. The traveller expressed his frustration on Reddit, according to the New York Post. He fumed: 'The bar must be as important as an airport with the level of scrutiny they give you.' Though other Reddit users were quick to inform him for the reasons behind the bar banishment. A keen Disney fan was disappointed to discover a little-known rule at the popular resort that caused him issues in a bar The tourist visited Ogas Cantina, a Star Wars themed watering hole located in Galaxys Edge at Disneyland Park in California One replied: 'Neither a foreign driver license nor a photo of a passport are sufficient under California law to establish drinking age. 'This is not a Disney policy, this is California law. Unfortunately, many Canadian tourists do not know these laws. 'But, DLR cannot be faulted for following California law.' Someone else chimed in: 'Why would they accept a scan? So easily altered.' Another sympathised why the visitor found it 'frustrating' before explaining the rule. They said: 'I totally get why that was frustrating, but California has pretty strict laws when it comes to serving alcohol. 'Bars are required to see a physical government-issued ID with your name, photo, birthdate, and physical description. 'A scan or a foreign drivers license doesnt meet those legal requirements. Excited to try the unique drinks and concoctions, the 26-year-old entered with a digital copy of his passport and his provincial ID However, he was dismayed when staff turned him away at the bar because of a Californian policy 'Foreign passports are usually fine, but only if you have the actual document with you. 'This isnt just a Disney policy. Its state law, and the staff have to follow it or they risk serious penalties.' Disneyland's website outlines their policy on alcohol and identification. It states: 'Original passports are the only form of identification acceptable for Guests from outside the United States; non-United States drivers licenses, ID cards, temporary ID cards and copies of ID cards are not acceptable.' Kamikaze: An Untold History (BBC4) Rating: How much do you want to die for your country? Please tick the applicable box: Strongly desire, Desire, or Negative, and hand your application form to the admin officer. Astonishing almost beyond belief, this was the question posed to Japanese air force pilots during World War II, as revealed in Kamikaze: An Untold History. Slightly less surprising, since armies are the same the world over, their answers were largely ignored as officials selected the fliers who would attempt to crash their planes into Allied aircraft carriers and other ships. Instead, kamikaze pilots were chosen according to their exam results. Those with the highest marks were excused suicide duties, since their intellect made them too valuable. The ones with the lowest scores were also not picked, because they had not earned the right to sacrifice themselves. But nearly 4,000 Japanese men, average age 21 and four months, did fly kamikaze missions between October 1944 and August 1945. This grimly fascinating documentary tried to explain the mentality, not only of the pilots who flew to certain death, but of the nation that encouraged them to do it. As Japanese newsreels showed the pilots sharing a solemn ceremonial drink lemonade, since they had sworn off alcohol and radio announcers read out the young mens wills, a cult of kamikaze gripped the country. Their self-immolation became a symbol of what was expected from every citizen, and the slogan 100 million kamikaze was a national catchphrase. The pilots were known as war gods and mighty eagles. The BBC4 show Kamikaze: An Untold History examines the mentality, not only of the pilots who flew to certain death, but of the nation that encouraged them to do it Most of the veterans featured in the documentary, filmed over several years, were in their 90s now Your divine battle will be known for eternity, declared the newsreader on one piece of archive footage. Workers wore white bandanas in their honour. It seems incomprehensible, until we realise that many of the young men didnt want to die at all. They simply felt they had no choice. One man who wasnt picked said he saw a comrade receive his orders to volunteer with horror: My parents didnt send me to university to die, the doomed man howled. Another survivor, Hijikata Toshio, bravely marked his questionnaire negative. He was engaged to be married, and his ambition was to be a maths teacher, he said. Taking a bullet from an enemy is one thing but blowing myself up didnt seem right. Most of the veterans, filmed over several years, were in their 90s. One, an American sailor named Seth Irving who described waves of kamikaze planes divebombing his fleet, was 103. By the end of the war, so many Japanese aircraft had been destroyed that the pilots were sent out in trainer biplanes with explosives strapped to their fuselage. Slow and cumbersome, they were easily shot down. Survival had become a matter of chance. One pilot, Arai Toshio, played rock-paper-scissors with a fellow flier, for the right to die in their last remaining plane. He lost . . . and lived to be 99. A British actor best known for his role in the detective drama Endeavour has been spotted filming for another project - but he looks very different with a rugged beard and cropped hair. Whereas fans know him as a fresh-faced inspector with tousled locks, he now steps out with a coarser look, sporting an all-black ensemble and moody sunglasses. He made his first ITV appearance in 2012, and starred in the very well received Endeavour for an impressive nine seasons before its conclusion in 2023. The 45-year-old is set to star in the upcoming ITV spy thriller Betrayal, where he plays a troubled MI5 officer named John Hughes. The four-part series explores the 'emotional and professional strain of modern intelligence work, particularly on relationships' as John's covert operations and personal life begin to unravel. But can you guess who it is? Shaun Evans, best known for his role in the detective drama Endeavour, has been spotted filming for another project - but he looks very different with a rugged beard and cropped hair Where fans know him as a fresh-faced inspector with tousled locks, he now steps out with a coarser look, sporting an all-black ensemble and moody sunglasses Shaun has also played Coxswain Elliot Glover in BBC One's Vigil, and real-life murderer John Sweeney in ITV's Until I Kill You The actor is none other than Liverpool-born Shaun Evans, who played Endeavour Morse in the titular ITV drama. The father-of-two was pictured filming in Rusholme, Manchester, looking worlds away from his days as the sullen but charming Endeavour. In a black puffer jacket and straight-leg jeans, Shaun was captured grinning on set alongside crew members. Betrayal will see Shaun play a spy who was at the forefront of the war on terror. Now in his mid 40s and married with two kids, he's finding it difficult to adapt to modern security threats. But when he impulsively gets himself involved in a dark scheme, he'll have to redeem himself to save his career and reputation - all while struggling with the mental health effects of his murderous actions. Shaun has also played Coxswain Elliot Glover in BBC One's Vigil, and real-life murderer John Sweeney in ITV's Until I Kill You. This summer is ramping up to be an exciting one in British TV, with new dramas and reiterations of popular pre-existing series set to hit screens in the coming months. Line of Duty is one beloved programme that is 'definitely coming back' for a seventh season, according to a lead actor in the hit BBC drama. The father-of-two was pictured filming in Rusholme, Manchester, looking worlds away from his days as the sullen but charming Endeavour (pictured) The 45-year-old is set to star in the upcoming ITV spy thriller Betrayal, where he plays a troubled MI5 officer named John Hughes Northern Irish actor Adrian Dunbar, who played Superintendent Ted Hastings in the show, confirmed the much-loved series will be returning to UK screens. Fans have been begging for another installment for years, and Adrian has previously hinted at another run, but now he has spoken more definitively. 'Oh, it's definitely coming back,' the 66-year-old told the Sunday Telegraph. 'Some time next year. We're just waiting for the BBC to announce it.' He continued: 'I know Jed [Mercurio] is writing. And Martin and Vicky [Compston and McClure, who play Hastings's anti-corruption colleagues, Steve and Kate] are very keen.' And in a separate interview with The Times, the Enniskillen native said: 'We're really excited about getting our hands on a Line of Duty script, to see what happens to us. 'We've talked to the BBC. It is down to the BBC to make an announcement, but we're keeping our fingers crossed that next year we'll be working on a new series. 'No doubt Jed will think of some interesting twists and turns. We are as much in the dark as you are.' Adrian suggested that viewers were drawn to the series, and to his straight-laced character in particular, owing to a time of political instability during Covid. He made his first ITV appearance in 2012, and starred in the very well received Endeavour for an impressive nine seasons before its conclusion in 2023 In a black puffer jacket and straight-leg jeans, Shaun was captured on set alongside crew members When the news of Partygate erupted - the political scandal that saw Tories dancing and drinking during a state-imposed lockdown - Adrian believes fans sought solace in Ted Hastings. He told the Belfast Telegraph: 'When the Tories were dancing and having parties, people saw Line of Duty and thought "Surely somewhere there are people who, despite what it might mean to their careers, are willing to do the right thing?" 'I think that's why so many people gravitated towards Ted.' According to The Sun, the cast will start filming the new six-part installment next January when their other commitments have come to a close. A TV insider told the publication: 'This is the news Line of Duty fans have been waiting for since the sixth season left them deflated when it aired back in 2021. 'The BBC almost immediately requested more episodes to continue the story, but the success of the show meant Vicky, Martin and Adrian were instantly snapped up for other projects.' They added: 'But after several meetings with Jed [Mercurio, creator and writer] and the production team, they've finally managed to clear space in their calendars next year to commit to making the show.' Netflix have reportedly axed huge reality show Battle Camp after just one series. The celebrity challenge show made its debut on the streaming service back in April, however, it failed to make an impact with viewers and critics alike, reports The Sun. The programme was filmed in Mexico and featured a host of reality stars from shows including Too Hot to Handle, Love Is Blind and The Circle. However, it has not been given the green light for a second series due to a poor response from audiences and high costs, with the publication reporting that it's Netflix's 'most expensive flop in years.' A source said of the 10-part show: 'There were so many individuals taking part in the show, with 18 contestants in total. The fact that they all charged a fee to take part and that it was filmed on location, made it unusually costly. 'Plus the format set in a camp which was purpose-built from scratch for the show relied on multiple challenges, each costing big money to set up. It was an expense Netflix would have been happy to shoulder, except it didnt meet their expectations. Netflix have reportedly axed huge reality show Battle Camp after just one series The celebrity challenge show made its debut on the streaming service back in April, however, it failed to make an impact with viewers and critics alike, reports The Sun 'The hope was that it would create the sense of there being a Netflix reality universe, but most people who watched it didnt think the show was out of this world.' Daily Mail have contacted Netflix for comment. Battle Camp's axe comes hot on the heels of another expensive to make celeb-based show, Celebrity Bear Hunt, also being cut after one series back in June. The programme, which was set in Costa Rica and was hosted by Holly Willoughby alongside Bear Grylls, will not return despite the star saying that he was hopeful it would. Sources close to the show which aired in February say that while the ratings did well it was expensive to make and Netflix are now planning to do more live events rather than pre-recorded shows. One told Daily Mail: Everyone was very proud of the show but when it came to it, it was just so expensive to make. You had to have a whole set in Costa Rica, loads of staff and loads of celebrities. The overheads were eyewatering. It is understood that cheaper locations were looked at but nothing was appeared to be suitable. The programme was filmed in Mexico and featured a host of reality stars from shows including Too Hot to Handle, Love Is Blind and The Circle However, it has not been given the green light for a second series due to a poor response from audiences and high costs, with the publication reporting that it's Netflix's 'most expensive flop in years' Battle Camp's axe comes hot on the heels of another celeb-based show, Celebrity Bear Hunt, also being cut after one series back in June [host Holly Willoughby pictured] Meanwhile, Netflix axed a 'gem of a series' that has been dubbed 'fantastically binge-worthy' despite its perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes score. Wrestlers, directed by Greg Whitley, hit the streaming service back on 13 September 2023. Netflix's official synopsis reads: 'At a storied professional wrestling organization, new owners and a roster of stars strive to make an impact beyond the ring in this documentary series.' It stars professional wrestler Al Snow, 62, and those who are in The Ohio Valley Wrestling school. The docu-series aired a total of seven episodes and unfortunately it has been confirmed that it won't be coming back. A sequel for Coyote Ugly is potentially in the works as an original cast member shared a major update, to the excitement of many longtime fans. Piper Perabo, who is known for portraying the protagonist Violet Sanford in the 2000 film, hinted at the possibility of a follow-up installment while attending San Diego Comic-Con over the weekend. The 48-year-old actress, who starred in Coyote Ugly when she was in her early 20s, hinted at a project being in the works and said there have been behind-the-scenes talks. 'There has been some discussion about that,' she told The Hollywood Reporter on Sunday. 'Some things are being discussed.' She continued mysteriously: 'I can't really say, but people that were doing it are talking about some stuff.' Her update comes less than a year after Perabo reunited with the ensemble cast to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Coyote Ugly with Tyra Banks, Maria Bello, Izabella Miko, Bridget Moynahan and Melanie Lynskey. A sequel for Coyote Ugly is potentially in the works as an original cast member shared a major update, to the excitement of many longtime fans; pictured in 2000, from left to right: Tyra Banks, Piper Perabo, Maria Bello, Izabella Miko and Bridget Moynahan When she was asked if talks about a second film was once again 'back on,' she responded, 'Among the necessary and some people that were like, "Well, we don't necessarily need," they're like, "Oh, well I wanna be in it."' She added: 'So there's a lot of cooks in the kitchen right now, but things are moving around.' When asked if there was already a written script for Coyote Ugly 2, she only replied: 'I can't say anything about that.' Perabo added, 'But I will say that people that were integral to making it are in communication about how to do something more.' The actress previously starred in the the original movie, which was released in 2000. In the dramedy, she played aspiring songwriter Violet Sanford, who gets a job at the Coyote Ugly saloon to earn money as she pursues her music career. It's there that she meets Kevin O'Donnell (portrayed by Adam Garcia), and he helps her overcome her stage fright. However, her father (John Goodman) learns of her new job and disapproves of the environment at Coyote Ugly, and she ends up getting fired. Piper Perabo, who is known for portraying the protagonist Violet Sanford in the 2000 comedy-drama film, hinted at the possibility of a follow-up installment while attending San Diego Comic-Con; pictured May in Cannes The 48-year-old actress, who starred in the movie when she was in her early 20s, hinted at a project being in the works and said there have been behind-the-scenes talks about the film; pictured in 2000 alongside LeAnn Rimes (left) She teased the possibility of a second installment and revealed 'there's a lot of cooks in the kitchen right now, but things are moving around'; pictured in 2000 alongside Maria Bello (left) In the comedy drama, she played aspiring songwriter Violet Sanford, who gets a job at the Coyote Ugly saloon to earn money as she pursues her music career; pictured in 2000 movie still This comes just less than a year since Perabo reunited with the ensemble cast to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Coyote Ugly; pictured in 2000, from left to right: Maria Bello, Tyra Banks, Piper Perabo, Izabella Miko, Bridget Moynahan He later gets involved in a car crash, and the scary experience gives him a new outlook, leading him to encourage his daughter to pursue her songwriting dreams. Despite having a relatively low budget and receiving mediocre reviews, Coyote Ugly was hit after grossing $113 million worldwide. In February, the cast reunited for a special screening and Q&A to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the movie's release. During the event, Banks said that the reunion was 'magical, wild, hilarious and deeply touching just like the movie itself.' In her pre-screening remarks at the event, according to People, Bello praised Banks for her role in organizing the benefit. During the panel discussion, Miko recalled the intense rehearsals for the movie's elaborate dance numbers. 'It feels like it was months, but I don't know if it was months, but it was a long time,' she recalled. 'There was just not only the choreography, but also just dealing with fire and water elements. That was great.' Miko went on to say that she was 'so grateful' not to be among those who had to dance on the bar, which she called 'a nightmare.' Prior to the reunion, Bello teased that she hadn't 'seen some of those girls in 25 years' and was excited to see what would happen. Back in 2018, she teased that she was eager to reprise her role as the no-nonsense bartender. 'I'm dying to do Coyote Ugly 2,' the actress told People. 'I want to produce it I just need to get the rights from Mr. Jerry Bruckheimer or work with him.' The police were called to Ashlee Simpson and Evan Ross' home after a burglary alarm was set off at their Los Angeles residence on Monday morning, according to a new report. Law enforcement sources told TMZ that cops responded to a possible burglary at the residence after receiving a call from someone connected to the couple regarding the alarm. It's unclear if Simpson, 40, and her spouse, 36, were at home at the time of the incident, but neither contacted authorities themselves, insiders further told the site. A sweep of the home was reportedly conducted by police, however they found no clear indications of burglary or forced entry. It was determined by the authorities that either the alleged trespassers had left the scene or a false alarm had occurred, the site adds. DailyMail.com has contacted representatives for the couple for comment but have yet to hear back. The police were called to Ashlee Simpson and Evan Ross ' home after a burglary alarm was set off at their LA residence on Monday morning, according to a new report; pictured in July 2024 in West Hollywood Simpson and Ross have been married since 2014 and share daughter Jagger Snow, nine, and son Ziggy Blu, four. Simpson also has 16-year-old son Bronx Mowgli with her ex-husband Pete Wentz. The possible burglary scare isn't the only one to make headlines this past month, with other big names in the Los Angeles area also targeted by alleged burglars. American Idol boss Robin Kaye and her husband Thomas DeLuca, both 70, were shot to death at their LA home after walking in on an alleged burglar. They were gunned down by the callous intruder, who used the victims' own weapon that they had for self-defense. Raymond Boodarian, an Encino resident, was later arrested. Investigators believe Raymond was burglarizing the residence on July 10, while the couple was away, and he allegedly shot them when they suddenly returned. The 22-year-old has been charged with two counts of murder and other offenses in relation to the deaths. Raymond has yet to enter a plea. His next court appearance is scheduled for August 20. He is currently being held without bail at the Twin Towers Correction Facility in downtown LA. Simpsonvand her husband are raising three children together their son Ziggy, daughter Jagger, and the songstress' son from her first marriage to Pete Wentz, Bronx Mowgli; pictured last June in LA Other figures in LA have recently been targeted in burlgaries. American Idol boss Robin Kaye and her husband Thomas DeLuca, both 70, were shot to death at their home after walking in on an alleged burglar An alleged attempted burglary also occurred at former Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills star Teddi Mellencamp's Encino home earlier this month. Three individuals attempted to enter the property she shares with Arroyave, but they were foiled by her state-of-the-art home security system, which frightened them away and summoned law enforcement to the scene. She posted a video showing three figures all dressed in black jumping the main gate at the front of her estate before stalking across the driveway towards the house at 10:11 p.m. She then posted footage from another security camera in which the home invaders slipped through a small wooden side gate before venturing deeper into the property. One of the figures gingerly opened the side gate and ushered the other two in, whereupon the three of them crept along the side of the house. The one in front could be seen opening a backpack and pulling out a curved object that was not clearly identifiable on video. They all slowly made their way forward, only to suddenly wheel around and scurry back out the gate as they apparently realized the burglar alarm had been set off. 'We are grateful that everyone is unharmed,' Mellencamp wrote in the caption to the disturbing video. 'While we are shaken, we are fortunate to have the latest in home security systems which scared off the intruders.' An attempted burglary also occurred at Teddi Mellencamp's Encino home earlier this month; she's pictured on May 20 in Beverly Hills She added: 'Authorities were alerted and swiftly responded. We appreciate everyones heightened concern in light of recent criminal activities in our area, but we are safe.' Law enforcement sources previously told TMZ that police responded to a burglary call and rushed to the scene. However, the suspects had already fled by the time officers arrived. Authorities believe the individuals had just burglarized a neighboring home before attempting to break into Mellencamp's property. Tomorrowland is heading to Australia in 2026. The iconic music festival, which is held annually in Belgium, is set to bring its CORE stage to Melbourne in November, according to a TikTok shared over the weekend. In the post shared by a Tomorrowland attendee, a world map is seen with locations circled to show where the CORE stage would be travelling to next year. The list of cities included Medellin, Colombia in February 2026, Los Angeles, California in May 2026 and Melbourne, Australia in November 2026. The CORE stage was first introduced by Tomorrowland in 2017 and aims to bring some of the biggest DJs of underground electronic music to places across the globe. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMails new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Tomorrowland is heading to Australia in 2026. (Pictured: Sao Paolo, Brazil 2024) The iconic music festival, which is held annually in Belgium, is set to bring its CORE stage to Melbourne in November Some of the past locations the stage has popped up in include Brazil and Tulum, becoming renowned for its jungle-inspired design and unmatchable festival experience. While Tomorrowland hasn't directly confirmed it yet, the festival is expected to announce the Melbourne show either at the end of the year or the beginning of next year, with ticket, lineup and venue details sure to follow. The exciting news comes as a welcome surprise in a time when the live music industry in Australia is facing significant challenges. This year has seen a slew of major music festivals axed, including multi-city event Listen Out, R'n'B festival Souled Out and the ever-iconic Splendour in the Grass. It was revealed in January that Splendour in the Grass would not be returning in 2025. Organisers officially confirmed that the beloved Byron Bay music festival would not go ahead for a second year in a row via social media. 'Hey gang, sorry its been so quiet, but we had a little holidayfinally,' a statement published on the festival's Instagram and Facebook channels read. In the post shared by a Tomorrowland attendee, a world map is seen with locations circled to show where the CORE stage would be travelling to next year 'The rest of the festival team have still been busy cooking up some awesome new things for music lovers in Australia, but Splendour needs a little more time to recharge and we wont be back this year.' The 2024 Splendour festival, which was set to feature the likes of Kylie Minogue, G Flip, Tash Sultana, and Fontaines D.C., was axed less than a week after tickets went on sale, with organisers citing 'unexpected events' as the reason behind the last-minute cancellation. There is no guarantee that the festival is slated to return in 2026, however, organisers asked music fans to 'think of it as a breather so we can come back even bigger and better when the time is right.' The statement ended on a more hopeful note, with Splendour organisers saying there are 'lots of other huge events on the horizon.' 'So keep an ear to the ground in the coming months we cant wait to share what weve been working on!' they added. In a separate statement to Rolling Stone, ticketing and touring company Live Nation said the Splendour festivals team 'has our full support to bring Splendour in the Grass back when they feel its right.' Kyle Sandilands' manager Bruno Bouchet has provided an update on the radio star's driver, who was involved in a devastating car accident over the weekend. Kyle, 54, revealed on KIIS FM's Kyle & Jackie O show on Monday that his chauffeur George Plassaras had been involved in a collision with a $1million Rolls-Royce. Plassaras suffered a broken spine, broken ribs, a ruptured spleen and diaphragm, a torn open abdomen, two broken hips and two broken femurs after the vehicle smashed into his car at 3.30am on Saturday in Rose Bay in eastern Sydney. Bruno told Daily Mail Australia on Tuesday that Plassaras woke up from a coma on Sunday night and only recalls 'pulling out of his street and then being cut out of his van' by a heroic rescue team. 'Despite his condition, he still has a great sense of humour and was making jokes about how badly his friend's NRL team was going this season,' he added. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMails new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Kyle Sandilands' manager Bruno Bouchet told Daily Mail Australia that George Plassaras (left) woke up from a coma on Sunday night and only remembers 'pulling out of his street and then being cut out of his van' The young woman who was behind the wheel of the Rolls-Royce 4WD while allegedly drunk is the owner of a second Rolls-Royce -a white Ghost convertible - that's parked in the garage of her luxury penthouse apartment. LanLan Yang crashed her $1 million Rolls-Royce Cullinan into the Mercedes van being driven by Plassaras on New South Head Road. NSW Police allege the 23-year-old Yang veered onto the wrong side of the road, having watched CCTV footage of the collision. Plassaras, who runs Dakota Limousines, was trapped in the wreckage as witnesses called triple zero. He could be heard yelling for help inside the crushed vehicle, as emergency crews from NSW Police Rescue and Fire and Rescue NSW worked to free him. LanLan Yang smashed her Tiffany blue Rolls Royce Cullinan - understood to be worth about $600,000 - into the the 52-year-old's Mercedes at 3.30am on Saturday along New South Head Road in Rose Bay Plassaras suffered a broken spine, broken ribs, a ruptured spleen and diaphragm, a torn open abdomen, two broken hips and two broken femurs Police say Yang returned a positive result in a roadside breath test, and she was arrested at the scene. At Waverley Police Station, she allegedly refused to undergo a breath analysis. Yang was charged with causing bodily harm by misconduct while in charge of a motor vehicle, and refusing or failing to submit to breath analysis. She was granted conditional bail and ordered to surrender her passport. Under the strict conditions, she has been prohibited from driving a car and must remain at her Waverley mansion between 8pm and 6am daily. Yang is scheduled to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on August 15. Rachael Leigh Cook has officially debuted her new budding romance with a 2000s action hunk as the pair were seen enjoying a date night in LA on Friday. The 45-year-old She's All That star was seen sweetly holding hands with fellow actor Brandon Routh, who leapt to fame after portraying the iconic Man of Steel in the 2006 film Superman Returns. The two stars enjoyed the low-key outing together as they stopped by a crowded movie theater to catch a screening. Rachael and Brandon, also 45, flashed cheerful smiles during their nighttime excursion, and at one point the beauty was seen sweetly resting her hand on his back. The actress whose divorce from Daniel Gillies was finalized in 2021 was effortlessly chic in a pair of light-blue denim jeans and a black cropped blazer. She slipped into a pair of closed-toe white pumps and carried a small gold handbag. Rachael Leigh Cook, 45, has officially debuted her new budding romance with 2000s action hunk Brandon Routh as the pair were seen enjoying date night in LA on Friday Her brunette locks were parted in the middle, and fell down naturally to brush the tips of her shoulders. Brandon kept it stylish casual in a black button-up, as well as a pair of black jeans and comfy sneakers. While it is not known when the couple first sparked up a romance, in February they were pictured stopping by the restaurant HomeGrown in Des Moines, Iowa. The eatery shared a snap of the two actors on its Instagram page as they posed with a couple of staff members. The caption read: 'It's a bird it's a plane it's Brandon Routh! Superman and Des Moines' own Brandon Routh stopped by Crescent to fuel up before fighting for truth and justice with kindness, of course. 'Also visiting us today, the one and only Rachael Leigh Cook. From Hollywood to Hallmark, She's All That in our book, and what a treat it was to welcome her to DSM today.' Rachael is known for her role in the 1999 rom-com She's All That, which also starred Freddie Prinze Jr., Matthew Lillard and the late Paul Walker. She also took on a leading role in the 2001 cult classic Josie And The Pussycats, as well as Netflix's Love, Guaranteed (2020) and He's All That (2021). The two stars enjoyed the low-key outing together as they stopped by a crowded movie theater to catch a screening Rachael and Brandon flashed cheerful smiles during their nighttime excursion, and at one point the beauty was seen sweetly resting her hand on his back While it is not known when the couple first sparked up a romance, in February they were pictured stopping by the restaurant HomeGrown in Des Moines, Iowa The restaurant shared a photo of the two with staff members on its Instagram page and referenced their most high-profile projects in its caption Rachael is known for her role in the 1999 rom-com She's All That, which also starred Freddie Prinze Jr., Matthew Lillard and the late Paul Walker The actress was previously married to Daniel Gillies from 2004 until their separation in 2019. Two years later, their divorce was finalized. Since then, they have continued to co-parent their children Charlotte, 11, and Theodore, 10. Following the split, Rachael revealed that she is still 'totally open' to marrying again in the future. During a 2022 interview with People, she explained, 'I am the most incorrigible full-tilt romantic you have ever met in your whole life, to the point that it's probably unreasonable. So yeah, totally open to that happening again.' However, Rachael added that she 'will be slightly more cautious in making that decision because I have kids involved and such in my life now. But I wouldn't say no.' As to whether she wants to expand her family in the future, the actress admittedshe isn't certain. 'I gotta watch out for my own spontaneous side, and I gotta make that decision with eyes wide open,' she said Rachael continued, 'And my boyfriend has to realize how totally insane kids can be, I think, in person a little bit more before we can think about making that step.' Brandon leapt to fame after portraying the iconic role of the Man of Steel in the 2006 film Superman Returns (seen above) The actress was previously married to Daniel Gillies from 2004 until their separation in 2019. Two years later, their divorce was finalized and continue to co-parent their children Charlotte, 11, and Theodore, 10; the former couple are seen in 2014 in Hollywood Brandon was previously married to the actress Courtney Ford, but she filed for divorce in January after 17 years of marriage. The Dexter star cited 'irreconcilable differences' as the reason for the separation and requested for joint legal and physical custody of their son Leo, 12. At the time, the former couple shared a statement about the split, saying: 'To everyone who has loved and supported us, we have some personal news to share. 'After 21 years together, and 17 years of marriage, we have decided to begin a new journey, and enter this next chapter of life as friends and co-parents.' The pair added, 'We are now and forever rooting for each other as we move through this wild adventure called life. Our son is, and will always be, our highest priority, and we appreciate your understanding as we navigate this transition.' Brandon is not only known for portraying an iconic superhero, but he has also appeared on the big screen in movies such as Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World (2010). On television, he's known for roles in shows including Arrow, Chuck, The Rookie, The Flash and Legends Of Tomorrow. Rachael and Brandon are also no strangers to appearing in movies for the Hallmark Channel. Brandon was previously married to actress Courtney Ford, but she filed for divorce in January after 17 years of marriage; seen in 2019 in San Diego At the time, the former couple shared a statement about the split, saying, 'To everyone who has loved and supported us, we have some personal news to share' The actor has played leading characters in movies such as The Nine Lives Of Christmas, as well as The Nine Kittens Of Christmas. Rachael has also starred in Hallmark television movies including Summer Love, Autumn In The Vineyard, Frozen Love and Rescuing Christmas. The pair are expected to attend Christmas Con later this year in New Jersey, which will take place from December 12-14. Rachael and Brandon were initially slated to attend the event last year, but both dropped out due to scheduling conflicts. Sydney Sweeney's American Eagle ad campaign has debuted to strong reactions from fans and financial markets, leading one comedian to spoof it to plaudits from his audience. Los Angeles-based comedian Michael Pavano owned the moment and parodied the promotion centered around the A-list actress, 27, in a new clip posted to his Instagram and TikTok pages, which have more than 1.1 million combined followers. Pavano, who has past donned drag ensembles for online comedy bits on his social media platforms, racked up more than 13,000 likes in two hours on Monday for his spoof of the Sweeney advertisement. 'So far the sketch has been received very well,' Pavano told Daily Mail exclusively. 'Im always super grateful when people can see the hard work I put into my characters and comedy.' Pavano, who appeared on the TV series Big Top earlier this year, captioned the clip 'gripping all the right places' adding emojis of jeans and a heart; and hashtags for phrases such as satire, parody and impressions. The comedian donned a purple denim ensemble, a dark brown wig and of strategically placed a pair of balloons for comedic purposes; he added a voiceover in which he made a series of pretentious nonsensical statements about genetics. Sydney Sweeney's American Eagle ad campaign has debuted to strong reactions from fans and financial markets leading comedian Michael Pavano to spoof it to plaudits from his audience In the voiceover, Pavano mocked the overt double meaning of the phrases jeans/genes in a parody of the American Eagle ad campaign. 'Jeans are passed down from parents to us, often determining traits like your hair color ... and even eye color,' Pavano said. He added, 'My jeans are blue - so they're like, better than yours. They say people with blonde hair and blue eyes, their nature is favorite. I don't say it, but they do - but I buy it!' The vapid and hypersexual monologue was a clear lampooning of the ad campaign centered around the A-list actress that had been garnering controversy in recent days. Pavano continued: 'I mean, who wouldn't want my jeans? I know you do, you dirty boy. Let's be so real. 'Tight blue jeans from American Eagle is the only denim I'll put on my body - and it's not just the denim that's tight.' Pavano, a veteran of The Groundlings comedy troupe, said in the skit, 'This pair of blue denim is clinging to me for dear life ... I like it when they stretch super wide and slide right in - I mean on. 'They hug all the right places - and some very wrong ones.' Pavano has amassed more than more than 1.1 million combined followers on his Instagram and TikTok pages told Daily Mail exclusively: 'So far the sketch has been received very well' The vapid and hypersexual monologue was a clear lampooning of the ad campaign centered around the A-list actress that had been garnering controversy in recent days Pavano donned a purple denim ensemble, a dark brown wig and of strategically placed a pair of balloons for comedic purposes Pavano integrated physical gags like letting the air out of a balloon in the online skit Pavano also joked about the challenges some face in trying to put on a tight pair of jeans. 'I try my hardest to button them up - one snap at a time,' Pavano said. 'My hands are shaking, my core is engaged, my pelvic floor is lifted higher than my dog after he got into my batch of special brownies. 'By the time I finally get them on, I'm sweating, I'm gasping. I'm [sneezing].' Pavano wrapped up the comedic monologue as a faux Sweeney in saying, 'Sorry - is it the denim or the blood flow being cut off at my hips because they're so tight? 'Go and get yourself a pair of Sydney's blue jeans - only at Baskin Robbins - whoops, wrong brand.' Pavano was applauded by many of his followers for the aesthetic aspect of the bit. 'How do you look exactly like her but also Megan and Nicole and Blake and Dakota?!' one of his fans said in reference to past impressions he's done of celebs such as Meghan Markle and Dakota Johnson. Another user suggested that American Eagle 'needs to be paying [Pavano] for this for the amount of traffic [Pavano's] sending to their ad.' Sydney Sweeney fans have rushed to her defense after her new campaign for American Eagle was branded 'Nazi propaganda' by woke critics In an accompanying video, Sydney is seen buttoning up her jeans as she muses: 'Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality and even eye color... my genes are blue' The viral clip was mocking American Eagle's autumn advertising rollout, which has the tagline, 'Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans.' In a series of images, the Spokane, Washington-born beauty - who is set to play boxer Christy Martin in an upcoming biopic already garnering Oscar buzz - is seen modeling a variety of denim-based ensembles. In an accompanying video, Sydney is seen buttoning up her jeans as she muses: 'Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair colour, personality and even eye colour... my genes are blue'. A second advert sees the camera pan down Sydney's chest as she models a plunging denim jumpsuit. She muses: 'My body's composition is determined by my genes...' before exclaiming: 'Hey, eyes up here' as the camera cuts back to her face. The advert has divided fans, however, with one critic calling the clip 'one of the loudest and most obvious racialized dog whistles we've seen and heard in a while.' The phrase 'great genes' is 'historically used to celebrate whiteness, thinness and attractiveness,' which it said made 'this campaign seem to be a tone-deaf marketing move,' a Salon report on the backlash read. Taking to social media, many expressed their shock at messaging - which they compared to Nazi propaganda. Pavano was applauded by many of his followers for the aesthetic aspect of the bit The Emmy-nominated actress is the face of the label's autumn advertising rollout, which has the tagline, 'Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans' Outraged fans penned sentiments such as, 'So Sydney (& American Eagle) somehow expect audiences to not interpret this visual as a euphemism for eugenics and white supremacy?' 'The Sydney Sweeney American Eagle ad campaign is just modern day Nazi propaganda. Like its wild how blatant it is. Things are weird right now, man.'; Another said that 'the most nazi part of the Sydney sweeney add for me was the use of the word offspring.' Said one commenter: '"Jeans (Genes) are past down from parent to offspring;""My jeans (genes) are blue;" "Sydney Sweeney has great jeans (genes);" Nothing is ever a coincidence, this is eugenics."' TikTok named Angie under the handle @vital_media_marketing then reviewed the ad and pointed out what she felt were problematic elements with the underlying message. Angie said: As it's panning up her body and on her face and her features, she's literally talking about her family tree and the genetics that have been handed down to her, her blonde hair and her blue eyes, and how great they are.' Angie said that 'praising Sydney Sweeney for her great genes in the context of her white blonde hair, blue eye appearance' makes for 'one of the loudest and most obvious racialized dog whistles we've seen and heard in a while.' Many people panned the tone of the ad campaign on American Eagle's Instagram page, as one user quipped, Its giving "Subtle 1930s Germany."' Another user echoed, 'Close enough, welcome back 1930s Germany.' American Eagle's choice of words in the campaign garnered heavy scrutiny One person said the promotion 'is what happens when you have no [people] of color in a room ... particularly in a time like this. 'This ad campaign got so caught up in this clever play on words and this stunt the ppl in the room missed what was so blatantly obvious to anyone not White. Id expect this from Abercrombie but not yall.' One user wrote of the promotion featuring the surging star, 'This is such a f****d up campaign' while another called it 'weird as hell.' Others vented about the message they felt the campaign inherently sent, as one said they were 'never shopping at AE again' while another asked the fashion house, 'What are you doing???' One Instagram user speculated, 'This has to be rage bait,' while another suggested the clothing retailer 'read the room' in reference to the current campaign. Another user asked, 'Who on your marketing team said this was a good idea.' The advert has divided fans, however, with one critic calling the clip 'one of the loudest and most obvious racialized dog whistles we've seen and heard in a while.' Yet many were quick to defend Sydney, branding the backlash 'unhinged'. They shared on X/Twitter: 'I'm not sure how to say this nicely but if you think a jeans ad with a pun about Sydney Sweeney being pretty is a nazi dogwhistle you genuinely need to put the phone down for a while.'; 'everyone is seriously reading too much into this and yall need to go take a hike or something because sydney sweeney is literally just promoting jeans, not nazi propaganda'; 'The claim that Sydney Sweeneys American Eagle ad is pro-eugenics because of a good genes/jeans pun is genuinely unhinged. Its a denim campaign, not a manifesto. Not every blonde with blue eyes is a Nazi. Some of you need a history book and a nap'; 'You guys dont have to like Sydney Sweeney or the ways she promotes herself but dont you think comparing those Jean commercials to nazi propaganda is a tad extreme?' Daily Mail has reached out to reps for Sweeney and American Eagle for further comment on the story. Sweeney said in a July 23 news release about the fall campaign: 'There is something so effortless about American Eagle.' She said of the clothier: 'Its the perfect balance of being put-together but still feeling like yourself.' Yet many were quick to defend Sydney, branding the backlash 'unhinged' Sweeney said in a July 23 news release about the fall campaign: 'There is something so effortless about American Eagle its the perfect balance of being put-together but still feeling like yourself' In a series of images, the Spokane, Washington-born beauty was seen modeling a variety of denim-based ensembles In terms of the charitable aspect of the ad campaign, American Eagle Outfitters is working with Crisis Text Line in an effort to provide grants for mental health support and crisis intervention The Euphoria star continued: 'Their commitment to creating pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin is something that resonates with me. 'Its rare to find a brand that grows with you, the way American Eagle has for generations.' The Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood actress wrapped up in saying, 'They have literally been there with me through every version of myself.' American Eagle Outfitters president Jennifer Foyle opened up about the ad campaign, which is slated to raise money for domestic violence charities, in the news release. 'This fall season, American Eagle is celebrating what makes our brand iconic trendsetting denim that leads, never follows,' Foyle said. 'Innovative fits and endless versatility reflect how our community wears their denim: mixed, matched, layered and lived in.' The fashion executive explained why Sweeney made for the perfect focal point of the promotion. 'With Sydney Sweeney front and center, she brings the allure, and we add the flawless wardrobe for the winning combo of ease, attitude and a little mischief,' Foyle said. In terms of the charitable aspect of the ad campaign, American Eagle Outfitters is working with Crisis Text Line in an effort to provide grants for mental health support and crisis intervention. Proceeds from a special edition of The Sydney Jean will be donated to the organization. Among the related grants include a $100,000 Signature Grant posted this past February 2025 in an effort to expand programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. A US model and media personality revealed on Sunday her agonising attempt at trying to get a date with a 'hot Australian guy'. Sami Sheen, 21, who is the daughter of Charlie Sheen and Denise Richards, took to TikTok to recount the time she struggled to flirt with a man from Down Under. The blonde beauty said she met the hopeless romantic at a restaurant in Malibu, but he was so clueless about how to hit on her, he left without her name or number. 'Story time about a hot Australian man I met last week,' she captioned the video. She then said: 'I was in Malibu. I was in a really cute restaurant, sitting outside drinking my coffee. I had my dog in my lap. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMails new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Sami Sheen, 21, who is the daughter of Charlie Sheen and Denise Richards, revealed on Sunday her agonising attempt at trying to get a date with a 'hot Australian guy' 'Then my friend was like, "There's a really hot man behind you." I turned around... he was looking,' she continued. Sami went on to say she was in the midst of discussing whether she should approach him or not when the Aussie took the decision out of her hands and made a move. 'A couple minutes go by. I hear this man say, "Oh my god, that dog is really cute." I turned to look at him and he said, "You have a really cute dog, can I come say hi?"' The OnlyFans model encouraged the man to approach and play with her pooch, saying he knelt down to be at eye level with her. Sami said they had great conversation and chemistry, but she was left disappointed when the Aussie didn't ask for her number. 'He gets up, walks away. I was like, "Oh my god, I can't believe I did not get his number or anything. He is really hot,"' she said. But her second chance came when she took her dog over to a nearby bush so it could go to the toilet. The mystery man happened to be standing nearby with a group of his friends and he decided to approach her for a second time. Sami said she met the hopeless romantic at a restaurant in Malibu, but he was so clueless about how to hit on her, he left without her name or number 'He is petting [my dog] goodbye. Then he looks up and says, "I'll see you around,"' she recounted. 'Was this just about my dog? Because he didn't get my name, didn't get my number. We didn't exchange names, nothing. Nothing else was said that wasn't about a dog.' Sami went on to lament she has yet to see him again and has no idea if he was interested in her or just wanted to pet her dog. Her Australian followers flocked to the comments to offer advice, with many saying men Down Under are 'dumb' and 'terrible' at flirting. 'We have no rizz I'm sorry,' one person said. 'Aussie guys are DUMB when it comes to flirting. They almost don't do it. They just wanna root!' another added. 'If you see him, ask him out. Aussie men are terrible at that,' a third noted. One other user commented: 'It was definitely about you, but Australians are known not to make any moves for some dumb reason.' Her Australian followers flocked to the comments to offer advice, with many saying men Down Under are 'dumb' and 'terrible' at flirting Sami is one of five children fathered by 59-year-old Hollywood actor Charlie. The Two and a Half Men star welcomed his first daughter, Cassandra, with high school girlfriend Paula Profit in 1984. He then welcomed daughters Sami and her sister Lola with ex-wife Denise, 54, in 2004 and 2005 respectively. Charlie also shares twin sons, Bob and Max, with ex-wife Brooke Mueller. They were born in 2009. Sir Michael Hill, the founder of Michael Hill Jewellers, has died at the age of 86 after a long battle with cancer. Michael Hill International Limited confirmed his passing on Tuesday morning, sharing a statement to the ASX and NZX that paid tribute to the celebrated jeweller and philanthropist. 'It is with great sadness that Michael Hill International Limited announces the passing of our Founder and Non-Executive Director, Sir Michael Hill this morning,' the company said. 'Sir Michael was a celebrated jeweller, entrepreneur, philanthropist and committed father and husband. 'With his wife Lady Christine, he founded and grew Michael Hill from its humble beginnings in Whangarei, New Zealand to a global retail jewellery brand that spans Australia, New Zealand and Canada. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Sir Michael Hill, the founder of Michael Hill Jewellers, has died at the age of 86 after a battle with cancer 'It is with great sadness that Michael Hill International Limited announces the passing of our Founder and Non-Executive Director, Sir Michael Hill this morning,' the company said in a statement. Pictured with Kim Kardashian in 2010 The statement continued: 'The Board, Executive and all the Michael Hill team express their deepest and sincerest condolences to Michael's family and friends.' He died at his family home in Arrowtown, on New Zealand's South Island. Hill launched his first jewellery store in Whangarei in 1979, laying the groundwork for a global retail empire with hundreds of stores. Today, the brand operates 287 stores across Australia, New Zealand and Canada. His iconic and affordable jewellery was worn by some of the world's most famous stars, including Kim Kardashian and Miranda Kerr. In 2010, he teamed up with Kim Kardashian he launched a business venture with US reality TV star Kim Kardashian, to find the 'world's best couple'. The pair offered a 22-carat Michael Hill diamond engagement ring as a prize to the winners. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid tribute to Hill in a statement. Hill launched his first jewellery store in Whangarei in 1979, laying the groundwork for a global retail empire with hundreds of stores. Pictured with daughter Emma Hill is survived by his wife Christine and their two children 'Sir Michael Hills aspiration, grit, and determination to succeed not only built a globally recognised brand, but also inspired generations of Kiwi entrepreneurs to dream big,' he said. 'He built a brand from scratch and gave back to the country that he loved. May he rest in peace.' His jewellery empire was worth over AU$700m worldwide, and he had a personal net worth of around AU$300m. Hill was knighted in 2011 for services to business and the arts. He is survived by his wife Christine and their two children, Mark and Emma. He has been looking dapper on the red carpet as of late with a handsome buzz cut. But Brad Pitt will likely have fans doing double takes as he unveiled a new yet familiar look on the set of the Once Upon A Time In Hollywood sequel. New photos of the actor on the set of The Adventures of Cliff Booth show a noticeably dressed-down Pitt resembling more of a surfer than his usual dapper self. The 61-year-old Oscar winner, who is returning to his role of stuntman Cliff Booth, rocked chin-length blonde hair and a mustache. In a departure from his recent crisp apparel, his costume consisted of an buttoned yellow camp shirt worn over a graphic T-shirt and jeans. The scene was shot at the New Beverly Cinema, a theater in Los Angeles owned by Once Upon A Time In Hollywood writer and director Quentin Tarantino. Brad Pitt will likely have fans doing double takes as he unveiled a new yet familiar look on the set of the Once Upon A Time in Hollywood sequel in LA on Monday. He has been embracing a dapper wardrobe as of late as he promotes his recent F1 film; pictured June 23 in London Pitt's buzzed haircut was transformed with a shaggy blond wig on set, and he reintroduced himself to his character Cliff Booth's casual attire for his costume Tarantino is returning to write the sequel, but he's handing directing duties over to Zodiac and Seven filmmaker David Fincher Pitt was also seen minus the long hair but mustache remaining as he milled about the set in a blue shirt, jeans and sneakers. A coffee cup in hand suggested he was taking a break out of character between takes. Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, released in 2019, starred Pitt as Cliff, a stuntman for the Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio). DiCaprio is not listed as a cast member on the show's IMDb page, which describes the plot as showcasing 'more of Cliff Booth's backstory in his new role as a Hollywood fixer.' Tarantino previously fleshed out the character beyond how he's portrayed in the film with a novelization of Once Upon A Time In Hollywood that he wrote. While the upcoming film will focus on Cliff, Pitt clarified last month that the project was 'not really a sequel but an episode' featuring the character. 'This is something Quentin Tarantino wrote. Its an episode, not really a sequel, but an episode of the character from Once Upon A Time,' he told Deadline. He filmed scenes outside of the New Beverly Cinema, a theater owned by Once Upon A Time In Hollywood director Quentin Tarantino Though still rocking his mustache, Brad appeared to be sporting his everyday apparel while on the set on Monday A coffee cup suggested he was taking a break from the character between takes Brad was hard at work as he emerged from the theaters with what appeared to be a flashlight in hand The star portrayed stuntman Cliff Booth in 2019's Once Upon A Time In Hollywood He starred opposite Leonardo DiCaprio in the critically-acclaimed film 'But he didnt want to direct it at this point, and my friend David Fincher, our friend, I say our mutual friend, David Fincher stepped in to direct it,' Pitt explained. 'So we're doing that for Netflix and we're gonna start in July, it should be really fun. It should be good fun.' In addition to Pitt, the cast consists of Elizabeth Debicki, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Carla Gugino, Scott Caan and JB Tadena. Once Upon A Time In Hollywood earned numerous awards and nominations, including multiple Oscar nods. Pitt won the Academy Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role for his portrayal of Cliff. Bianca Wallace has insisted she never had an affair with Ioan Gruffudd as she accused his ex Alice Evans of inventing the 'disgusting, vile story'. The former couple are currently in a bitter legal battle and Alice, 56, previously accused her estranged husband of cheating on her for three years with Bianca, who is 21 years her junior. And now Bianca, 32, has finally responded to the accusations as she revealed she did not have an affair with Ioan after receiving threats towards her unborn baby from trolls. Taking to Instagram on Monday with a screenshot of some of the hate she has received - Bianca called the affair accusations 'pathetic' and 'utterly ridiculous'. She penned: 'I have ignored this truly pathetic narrative for nearly 4 years now because of how utterly ridiculous and clearly insane it is. 'But threaten my innocent, unborn baby and the time for ignoring is up! Absolutely no one will ever threaten my baby over a made up story about an affair that literally never happened! No way.' Pregnant Bianca Wallace has insisted she never had an affair with Ioan Gruffudd and accused his ex Alice Evans of inventing the 'disgusting, vile story' in latest Instagram post on Monday Alice (pictured) previously accused her estranged husband of cheating on her for three years with the Bianca, who is 21 years her junior, telling fans she was 'lost, sad and confused' Since Ioan and Bianca went public with their relationship, Alice has openly hit out at their relationship on social media and claimed the pair had been embroiled in a three-year affair. Back in 2022 Bianca posted a snap of her and Ioan holding hand which Alice branded 'sick' and 'evil' and claimed seeing the image was like a 'stake in the heart.' Responding to Alice's claims directly in her post, Bianca continued: 'In October 2021 my husband's ex made up a disgusting, vile story about my husband and I having an affair. 'For 3 years and 9 months the narrative as been ongoing, making people like 'rivqah2020' message me, and now my unborn baby, threats like this. 'The TRUTH has been set in black and white, in clear evidence, under oath numerous times, and all available in public record.' She added: 'I will not have my innocent baby born into this completely intentional manufactured drama. This has all got to end now, and it needs to end with the truth and facts. 'My husband and I haven't deserved one second of this, and now, our unborn baby is being threatened and attacked. Absolutely no f*****g way! 'I know that I speak for so many people out there who have lived through this kind of abuse, lies and manipulation when I say we are all sick and tired of the b******t now.' Alice previously confirmed her separation from the Welsh star in a series of furious tweets posted on Twitter in January 2021 - with Ioan moving on with his new girlfriend Bianca in the following October. Taking to Instagram on Monday with a screenshot of the hate she has received she stated the affair accusations were 'pathetic' and 'utterly ridiculous' Since Ioan and Bianca went public with their relationship, Alice has hit out at their relationship on social media (pictured at The Fantastic Four premiere last week) In the latest update in the case Evans filed court documents - found by DailyMail.com - in which she claimed poverty and was so broke that she had to borrow money from friends and set up a GoFundMe account that raised $18,000 in donations. Alice has since confirmed she is doing a Meet and Greet in Covington, Georgia as she took to Instagram to share the exciting news on Tuesday. She penned: 'Guys I am coming to Covington!!!! I will be there the 8th and 9th of November to see you all die meets and greets and selfies and photo opps, hosted by the amazing Vampire Stalkers! 'More info to come - and wait for the wobbly video - but I am absolutely thrilled at this opportunity to still make it to Covington to see you all. 'Let me know if you're going to be there! (Or if you can't but would like to) Love you guys!' Last Wednesday's court appearances by all three were supposed to be an evidentiary hearing in which Ioan and Alice were to joust over her demands for him to shell out more than the $4,500 he is currently paying in support money for her and their two daughters. But instead, after a 90-minute delay during which Judge Josh Stinn huddled with their lawyers, the judge kicked the can down the road, scheduling another hearing August 12 when a date will be set for the case to go to trial. She said that she and her girls - Ella, 15 and Elsie, 11 - were recently evicted from their LA home because she couldn't afford to pay the $6,500 per month rent. Alice has since confirmed she is doing a Meet and Greet in Covington, Georgia as she took to Instagram to share the exciting news on Tuesday Ioan filed for divorce in March 2021, shortly after Evans announced on social media that her husband of 14 years was leaving her (pictured in 2005) She contended that she had to 'burn through' her savings to pay living expenses and legal fees. And she insisted Ioan- who married Bianca in April - can afford to pay more than the $3,000 per month child support and $1,500 spousal support he now pays. But Ioan is fighting his ex's cash demands and in his own court filing, blasted Evans' claims, saying that she 'purposely got herself evicted intentionally ceasing paying rent and instead taking the children on a vacation trip to Europe.' Her motive, he said, was to 'support her false public narrative of financial destitution in an attempt to further harm my reputation... as a fraudulent way to strong-arm me into paying more support than I can afford.' Ioan, also maintained that subpoenaed bank records show that, far from being broke, Evans made more than $130,000 in 2024 and is expected to earn a similar amount this year - a claim that Evans called 'false and misleading.' In his recent court filing Ioan told how he was 'mortified' to have received 'dozens of stressed messages from our minor children in which they have parroted Alice's false and manufactured claims of becoming homeless in the immediate future.' But in her new court documents, Alice denied manipulating the children to send plaintive messages to their father. 'I absolutely did not ask the children to send messages to (Ioan) about our eviction and pending homelessness,' she said. 'The children are well aware of our financial distress and the eviction.' Ioan and Alice met on the set of the movie 102 Dalmatians more than 20 years ago. They fell in love in real life and were married in Mexico in 2007. Ioan filed for divorce in March 2021, shortly after Alice announced on social media that her husband of 14 years was leaving her. They were divorced in July 2023. She spent the weekend filming a mystery project in Paris. And Michelle Keegan shared some snippets from her lavish trip to her Instagram account on Monday night as she got to work in the French capital. The actress, 38, shared one snap with her glam team including her makeup artist and hairstylist as she sat being pampered in a white dressing gown. She then posted a short video of what looked like the shoot she had been getting ready for as she posed in a pair of dark sunglasses. She sported a bouncy blow dry and perfectly applied makeup while accessorising with statement gold earrings. Other images saw her wandering around the picturesque streets of Paris, enjoying meals out and hiding from the rain on set during a downpour. Michelle Keegan shared some snippets from her recent lavish trip to Paris to her Instagram account on Monday night as she filmed a mystery project in the French capital She posted a short video of what looked like the shoot she had been getting ready for as she posed in a pair of dark sunglasses The day before Michelle cut a stylish figure in a chic navy jumpsuit as she joked about working hard while lounging on a bench in Paris. The Coronation Street star, who is reported to have a combined net worth of 20 million with her husband Mark Wright, also 38, smiled as her friend filmed her lying down in the middle of the French capital. Playing Donna Summer's 1983 hit She Works Hard for the Money over the top of the clip the actress was laughed in the snap after realising she was being filmed. She accessorised her look with a black belt, oversized sunglasses and pair of burgundy heels. The star was spending time in the city working and reposted several glimpses into her trip, originally shared by her makeup artist friend Emmy Clarkson. The pair posed up a storm in a stately home in one snap before sharing glimpses of their lavish meal at Le Square Trousseau. Described as a bistro with 'old world charm', the restaurant has been praised on TripAdvisor for serving 'superb' French cuisine. Michelle also appeared to indulge in a tipple or two as she enjoyed some time free of mum duties after welcoming her daughter Palma with Mark in March. Other images saw her wandering around the picturesque streets of Paris, enjoying meals out and hiding from the rain on set during a downpour She sported a bouncy blow dry and perfectly applied makeup while accessorising with statement gold earrings She was joined by a group of pals for the trip to Paris While filming part of the project she was caught in a downpour and had to hide from the rain When the weather cleared up she was back out exploring and looked chic in a beige co-ord look The day before Michelle cut a stylish figure in a chic navy jumpsuit as she joked about working hard while lounging on a bench in Paris The Coronation Street star, who is reported to have a combined net worth of 20 million with her husband Mark Wright, also 38, smiled as her friend filmed her lying down in the middle of the French capital As well as enjoying French cuisine on the trip, Michelle appeared to indulge in a tipple or two after recently becoming a mum for the first time Michelle's Instagram post comes hot on the heels of her return to work after welcoming daughter Palma in March. She recently jetted off to Bulgaria for her latest acting project, sharing behind-the-scenes snaps from a film set abroad. Since becoming a mum, Michelle has been living it up with luxury holidays, red carpet appearances and a major new deal with Sky, all while flaunting her enviable post-baby figure in skimpy swimwear from her fashion range. Michelle posed for a slew of smiley snaps with her crew mates last week, during filming in Bulgaria for a secret new project. The actress looked like she was having the time of her life in a slew of behind-the-scenes snaps giving her fans a glimpse of her mystery job with Sky. It was recently revealed the mother-of-one has signed a six-figure advertising deal to become the new face of the media company Sky. And Michelle looked to be laughing all the way to the bank as she larked about on the set with her hairstylist, makeup artist, talent agency and fashion stylist during breaks from filming. She could be seen sitting with the crew in a line of black director's chairs, which were labelled - confirming the project to be a collaboration between Sky Creative and B2Y Productions. Michelle captioned the photos: 'Bulgaria files with the best of the best '. The deal will reportedly see Michelle film a series of promo clips with fellow British actor Idris Elba, who already appears as the 'face' of Sky. She welcomed baby Palma in March of this year with her husband the former TOWIE star Mark Wright. She welcomed her first child - baby daughter Palma - in March this year with her husband Mark Wright It's believed the couple chose the name Palma because of their strong links to the Spanish island of Mallorca, which has been their go-to holiday destination for years and the setting for their pregnancy reveal photo shoot. Michelle found fame as Tina McIntyre on Coronation Street in 2007, before leaving the ITV soap in 2014. Her career then took off, with hits such as BBC military drama Our Girl, Sky's Brassic and BBC's Australian drama Ten Pound Poms. While her biggest success came last year, when she scored the starring role of Maya Stern in Netflix's Harlan Coben thriller Fool Me Once - which racked up more than 100 million views globally. Netflix has given Wednesday fans a first look at Billie Piper in her new role on the show, in which she will star alongside Jenna Ortega. The gothic comedy, which follows the antics of Wednesday Addams (played by Ortega), debuted on the streaming service in November 2022. It was quickly renewed for a second series in January 2023. Now, Netflix has unveiled Billie, 42, as Isadora Capri - a captivating new character at Nevermore Academy, where she serves as the school's head of music. Described as a former child prodigy, Isadora is brilliant, intense, and enigmatic. She takes a special interest in Wednesday's musical talents and also mentors fellow werewolf Enid Sinclair (Emma Myers). Billie's casting adds an intriguing layer to the series, given her background in supernatural and gothic roles, notably as Brona Croft/The Bride of Frankenstein in Penny Dreadful. The new images come after Netflix revealed the future of Wednesday beyond the upcoming series two, and fans of the chart-topping show are all saying the same thing. Netflix has given Wednesday fans a first look at Billie Piper in her new role on the show, in which she will star alongside Jenna Ortega The supernatural mystery comedy, which follows Wednesday Addams (Jenna Ortega pictured right), debuted on the streaming service in November 2022. The show was quickly renewed for a second series in January 2023 The American supernatural comedy series follows Jenna, 22, as the spooky Wednesday Addams. It is one in a series of takes over the years on The Addams Family, the eccentric fictional old-money clan, famously macabre and gothic in manner and look. The second series of the Emmy-winning programme, executive produced and often directed by horror icon Tim Burton, 66, is set for release in August. And now, it has been announced that not only will Wednesday be back for a third series, but a spin-off programme is currently under discussion, according to Hollywood Reporter. Fans were delighted to hear the fate of the beloved show has been secured, taking to social media to express their excitement. Catherine Zeta-Jones, 55, who plays creepy matriarch Morticia Addams, posted on Instagram confirming the news: 'When Wednesday comes a better day. 'Wednesday season three. It's official... we shall return.' One fan wrote in the comments section: 'And for many more seasons.'; Now, Netflix has unveiled Billie, 42, as Isadora Capri - a captivating new character at Nevermore Academy, where she serves as the school's head of music (pictured with Emma Myers) Described as a former child prodigy, Isadora is brilliant, intense, and enigmatic. She takes a special interest in Wednesday's musical talents In the series, she also mentors fellow werewolf Enid Sinclair (Emma Myers) 'I love this because then they can start filming soon and it won't be such a long pause between seasons! Or that's the hope!' The second series was announced in January 2023, but by the time it comes out later this year, it will have been more than two years in the making. Other users wrote, 'Season three? Hold on!', and, 'I'm excited about this.' Someone else added: 'I'll be gripping the sheets in agony waiting but please... don't let us wait three years again.' Another commenter wrote: 'Shut up. Season three?! Amazing!' One penned: 'I can't wait to see the second season, I'm waiting for it with great curiosity... and the third is already official, fantastic news!' The first series of Wednesday follows the titular troublemaker character after she is expelled and transferred to Nevermore Academy, a school for monstrous outcasts. Her cool, creepy manner and rebellious streak often see her in trouble and struggling to fit in. Billie's casting adds an intriguing layer to the series, given her background in supernatural and gothic roles, notably as Brona Croft/The Bride of Frankenstein in Penny Dreadful (pictured with Josh Hartnett) But after she discovers she is a psychic like her mother and applies her skills to solving a local murder case, she soon finds her stride. The programme boasts an impressive regular cast, with Game of Thrones' Gwendoline Christie and Narcos' Luis Guzman also starring. They feature as Nevermore headteacher Larissa Weems and Wednesday's father, Gomez Addams, respectively. The upcoming second series looks to be even more star-studded, with Lady Gaga, Joanna Lumley, Steve Buscemi, and Thandiwe Newton also joining the cast. Star Jenna and director Tim also worked together on Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, the 2024 sequel to the original 1988 horror film starring Winona Ryder. And they have now told all about what fans can expect from the upcoming second series and the newly announced third instalment. Scream queen Jenna, who rose to fame in slashers Scream, X and Scream VI, was embroiled in controversy in recent months for comments she made during a podcast interview. She said she spent her time on the show 'changing lines' and 'had to put my foot down' because 'everything I had to play did not make sense for the character'. The new images come after Netflix revealed the future of Wednesday beyond the upcoming series two, and fans of the chart-topping show are all saying the same thing (L-R Steve Buscemi, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Jenna, Isaac Ordonez, and Joonas Suotamo) The American supernatural comedy series follows Jenna, 22, as the spooky Wednesday Addams Jenna said she felt terrible about this and never meant it that way, simply meaning to say she improvised a lot and was permitted to. Tim sympathised with her, feeling the comments had been interpreted in a way she had not meant. But the pair revealed that after these events, Jenna is now a producer on the show. Co-creator Alfred Gough, who made the show with Miles Millar, said this made sense, as she is already so involved in every part of the show, as well as giving notes on the script, in a way he praised. Wednesday's first series pulled in a whopping 252million viewers globally, making it Netflix's biggest English-language series of all time. Alfred has now teased a spin-off: 'It's something we're definitely noodling; there are other characters we can look at.' And now, it has been announced that not only will Wednesday be back for a third series, but a spin-off programme is currently under discussion (Noah B. Taylor and Emma Myers pictured) Catherine Zeta-Jones, 55, who plays creepy matriarch Morticia Addams, posted on Instagram confirming the news Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria, meanwhile, added: 'There's a lot to explore in the Addams Family.' New cast member Joanna Lumley previously told Netflix news site Tudum: 'There's always something thrilling about working for Tim Burton. 'His whole mind takes him to a different world, and the world that they've created here for Wednesday and Nevermore and the family is just intoxicating. 'It's wonderful. I get to wear many, many huge wigs, one on top of the other and lots of quite constraining clothes, so I love it.' Upholding sincerity, principles to advance China-U.S. economic, trade relations 13:39, July 29, 2025 By Zhong Sheng ( People's Daily A new round of economic and trade talks between China and the United States is currently underway in Sweden. This follows the significant consensus reached during the Geneva talks and the establishment of the London Framework during the London meeting. Once again, the two sides are holding face-to-face consultations on economic and trade issues. At a time when the global economy is facing uncertainties, the international community expects both China and the U.S. to make good use of existing consultation mechanisms, take concrete actions to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, and jointly steer bilateral economic and trade relations toward the right path, which is essential for resolving differences through equal dialogue and consultation. The Chinese delegation came to Sweden with sincerity. Despite vicissitudes in China-U.S. economic and trade relations in recent years, China has consistently maintained a constructive approach and remained committed to resolving issues through equal dialogue and consultation. Amid the current round of economic and trade frictions, China has never closed the door to negotiation while firmly safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests. From Geneva to London, China has demonstrated sincerity, advancing the talks with tangible efforts and implementing the consensus with concrete actions. These moves have bolstered confidence that differences can be resolved through equal dialogue. During the current talks in Sweden, China remains committed to working with the U.S. toward tangible outcomes. This commitment stems from a deep understanding of the mutually beneficial nature of China-U.S. economic and trade relations, as well as a clear recognition of the unique global responsibilities shared by both countries. Differences between countries are inevitable; the key lies in how they are addressed. Dialogue and consultation provide not only a more efficient path forward, but also serve to forestall unnecessary costs. China's development interests must not be compromised. The two sides should explore possible solutions through dialogue based on mutual respect. Upholding the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation in economic and trade consultations aligns with the expectations of both peoples and the wider international community. Sincerity, however, does not imply compromising on principles. Consultations have bottom lines, and cooperation must be grounded in clear principles. Any dialogue must be conducted based on mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit. What China seeks to safeguard is not only its own legitimate rights and interests, but also international fairness and justice. China's development achievements are the result of the hard work of the Chinese people, not bestowed by others, nor achieved at the expense of other countries. These achievements must not be undermined, and China's right to development cannot be denied. In the face of U.S. tariff blackmail, investment restrictions, and technological blockades, China's determination to defend its legitimate rights and interests remains unwavering, and its capabilities are evident to all. The recently released mid-year economic data for 2025 demonstrate that, despite sharp changes in the international landscape and growing external pressure, the Chinese economy has maintained strong resilience and vitality. In the first half of the year, China's GDP grew 5.3 percent year on year, an increase of 0.3 percentage points over both the same period last year and the full-year growth rate for 2024. Total goods imports and exports in yuan-denominated terms reached 21.79 trillion yuan ($3.03 trillion), up 2.9 percent year on year. These figures underscore China's ability to withstand pressure and sustain stable growth. Looking ahead, regardless of how the external environment evolves, China has full confidence in its capacity to maintain steady and positive economic momentum, advance high-quality development, and continue contributing stability and certainty to the world economy. China is keenly aware of the long-term and complex nature of these negotiations. It recognizes that the trade frictions unilaterally initiated by the U.S. are not merely about short-term interests, but fundamentally challenge the rules that underpin the international economic and trade order. China firmly opposes any acts of unilateralism and protectionism, which threaten to undermine the multilateral trading system. This position is taken not only to protect its own interests, but also to uphold the institutional foundation for global development. An increasing number of insightful voices in the international community have observed that no country can remain unscathed in the face of economic coercion. Only by firmly upholding principled positions can countries truly protect their legitimate interests in negotiations. Should foundational principles be breached, coercion will invariably escalate and ultimately imperil all countries. Turbulent seas demand steady and united navigation. All parties should work together to safeguard the rules-based multilateral trading system and foster an open, inclusive, and non-discriminatory global trade environment. Both history and reality have repeatedly proven that dialogue and cooperation are the only viable way to resolve economic and trade disputes, while threats and coercion lead nowhere. With utmost sincerity and firm adherence to principles, China stands ready to work with the U.S., leveraging this round of economic and trade talks in Sweden as an opportunity to build more consensus, enhance mutual trust, reduce misjudgments, and deepen cooperation. Together, the two sides can inject stronger positive momentum into their respective development and the stability and prosperity of the global economy. (Zhong Sheng is a pen name often used by People's Daily to express its views on foreign policy and international affairs.) (Web editor: Liang Jun, Hongyu) A downcast Molly-Mae Hague opened up about her struggles with her confidence and appearance as she spoke in her latest YouTube vlog released on Monday. The influencer, 26, admitted she can 'barely even look at herself in the mirror' at the moment as she also revealed she had started therapy for the first time - amid backlash for being 'out of touch' by some of her followers. In her recent vlog she tearfully broke her silence following recent backlash from fans who once again branded the whinging millionaire influencer 'out of touch'. She has been accused of 'always moaning' in recent weeks after complained she'd 'not done one fun thing all summer' despite jetting off to multiple destinations. She also faced criticism after complaining about a recent 86,000 motorhome holiday. In her recent vlog she spoke about how she feels about her appearance as a busy mum and shared a clip driving to her first ever therapy session. Molly-Mae said as she prepared to have her hair done: 'Basically I have just been feeling really, and I feel like all of us girls go through it, where we have that really low confidence week and I could barely even look at myself in the mirror. A downcast Molly-Mae Hague opened up about her struggles with her confidence and appearance as she spoke in her latest YouTube vlog released on Monday The influencer, 26, admitted she can 'barely even look at herself in the mirror' at the moment as she also revealed she had started therapy for the first time - amid backlash for being 'out of touch' by some of her followers. 'So I feel like I am really ready for a bit of a glow up because I am not enjoying what is going on right now. 'I was just not feeling great in the way I look and it was really getting to me. I was in such a funk yesterday.' She then shared a video of her driving to therapy as she explained to her followers: 'I've never had it before this is my first session. I have zero idea of what to expect, I don't have a clue. I'm dreading it a bit as at the minute my life is good.' She gave a debrief after as she said she wasn't sure if she would go back again: 'It was only an hour so it will take a few sessions to get into. It's hard because I was having a good week but now I have had to talk about all the hard stuff and it's brought it all back up and now it's sitting heavy on me and now I have to go home and go be a mum again. 'I can't decide if I am going to go back or not. Maybe I need to give it more time.' Elsewhere in the vlog she tearfully broke her silence following recent backlash from fans who once again branded the millionaire influencer 'out of touch'. Molly-Mae's sister Zoe Hague has also come under fire for her 'tone deaf' posts of late after revealing she had fled Bali for Dubai after just 48 hours because it didn't live up to her expectations. In her latest YouTube video, Molly-Mae claimed that she 'didn't care' about the uproar but has been left 'scared' about discussing anything 'controversial'. In her recent vlog she tearfully broke her silence following recent backlash from fans who once again branded the whinging millionaire influencer 'out of touch' She has been accused of 'always moaning' in recent weeks after complaining she'd 'not done one fun thing all summer' despite jetting off to multiple destinations Her vlog also saw her struggling with the difficulties of motherhood and sharing an update on her relationship with Tommy Fury, also 26 Her vlog also saw her struggling with the difficulties of motherhood and sharing an update on her relationship with Tommy Fury, also 26. Filming herself in the driving seat and two-year-old daughter Bambi in the back she said: 'I'm trying so so hard to stay positive but, I feel like I need to keep my camera running all day so you can see like every single thing, [Bambi] is a huge problem, [She] screams [I] can't even get like socks and shoes on'. 'I don't care who tells me I am out of touch with reality or all this stuff that's going on on TikTok at the minute, I don't care I'm not going to not talk about it'. She later went on: 'I feel like I don't want to talk about anything controversial anymore because in the last video I said some things I probably could have worded better and even with all the motherhood things I am talking about at the minute, it's just a lot'. 'Debunking that whole thing about me feeling like I shouldn't talk about what is going on in the day because I am scared about what people will think and what they have to say about it'. Moving on to Tommy, with whom she rekindled her romance earlier this year, she explained why he hadn't featured in her Vlogs despite them being back together. 'I've see so many comments saying '[My sister] Zoe is more the dad' I only vlog when I am not with Tommy, I am with Tommy literally 80% of the week and he is with Bambi majority of the week,' 'But I vlog when we are here and he is at his because it's just something that I am not ready to like open up with yet and like flinging the camera around like when we're a family'. Before adding: 'I just think like we're not there yet and still figuring out life and living situations. I'm not ready to vlog like we used to'. Last week fans blasted the TV personality for 'always moaning' after after she said she'd 'not done one fun thing all summer' despite jetting off to multiple destinations. She said in her vlog: 'I said to a friend the other day, that I'm going to make it to the end of summer having not done one fun thing.' She then spoke to her sister and said: 'Zoe, I haven't socialised once. I'm going to get to the end of this summer having not done one social fun thing. 'I haven't a life. That's not good is it. Summer will end and I've not done one fun social thing.' It left some fans open-mouthed as they called out how she failed to acknowledge the three holidays she's already been on this year. Some comments read: 'She's a millionaire, she can literally wake up tomorrow and do whatever the hell she wants', 'Wimbledon, lunches, Spain, Dubai, France, Centre Parcs... let's normalise that', 'This was so jarring because she can casually spend 6k in Dior on an outfit to log to Wimbledon then complains she has no time for herself', 'Why does she always want us to feel sorry for her?' The mum-of-one - in this year alone - has been on no expense-spared trips to Dubai, Budapest and even Disneyland in 2025. Back in March she and Tommy Fury took baby Bambi on a family holiday to the United Arab Emirates, marking a reunion holiday for the clan. Just a month later Tommy had treated Molly to a European trip as the pair enjoyed downtime in Budapest. During their break, they stayed at The Pullman, a five-star hotel where prices start from at least 500 per night. Meanwhile, in May the doting parents took Bambi to Disneyland Paris where they enjoyed a lavish stay at the park's resort. It came after her candid complaints about a recent 86,000 motorhome holiday her family went on - after Tommy said their daughter Bambi shouldn't be spoilt with five star trips. The family were travelling on a swanky Elddis Avalon 255 motorhome. Yet Molly-Mae revealed the trip had been struck with delays, leaving Bambi 'overtired and overstimulated'. Molly-Mae looked in brighter spirits as she took to her Instagram Story on Tuesday sporting Dyson On Trac headphones She said in her vlog: 'I said to a friend the other day, that I'm going to make it to the end of summer having not done one fun thing...' She explained: 'Tommy has bought a motorhome and we spent our first weekend in the motorhome this weekend. Obviously, being us, we went in feet first and decided to go to the Isle of Man. 'Tommy's family were spending the weekend in the Isle of Man. I was feeling spontaneous so we literally booked the ferry to the Isle of Man an hour before we needed to leave. 'We'd never used the motorhome before, we needed to pack it up, sort Bambi, I just had this wave of 'you only live once, have a bit of fun. 'Bambi doesn't need to be so perfectly routine every day, she's not a newborn anymore. 'I've got so stuck in my ways with the fact that her routine is her routine and I don't really steer away from it. 'I'm not gonna feel bad for that because that is what works for me and that is what works for Bambi and Tommy, so that's fine.' She then added of when things started to go wrong: 'So anyway, booked the ferry, packed the motorhome up and nearly didn't make the ferry but that's another story and then there was a two hour delay. 'This ferry, which was already gonna get us in at 11:30pm, which was already severely triggering me because Bambi goes to bed at 7pm, was not fine. It was giving me a prime example as to why the routine works for us. 'It was one of those moments where strangers come up to you and are like 'can I help? Is there anything I can do?' 'She was screaming that much for four hours straight. The boat basically had a malfunction and it wouldn't move for like two hours so we had a huge delay. 'She was so, so, so overtired and overstimulated - Bambi is so routine, she is the opposite of flexible.' And when they arrived things continued to go downhill, as she said: 'We managed to get to the Isle of Man at 1:30am in the morning. 'We didn't know where we were, what we were doing, we were going to a different campsite to Tommy's family. It was just a lot. 'We had to make our bed out of this sofa, I was like 'I'm really out of my depth, I'm struggling. The next day, Bambi was so tired, she was just screaming, literally screaming, so, so unhappy. Meanwhile her sister Zoe came under fire for complaining about a recent trip too. Molly-Mae's influencer sister was recently mocked by fans for leaving Bali after just 48 hours because it didn't live up to her expectations. Instead she and her husband Danny made a last minute decision to fly to Dubai instead after Zoe, 28, took to social media to admit 'something wasn't quite right'. The fitness influencer had planned the trip to Indonesia with her husband Danny to celebrate their first wedding anniversary. And despite staying in a huge sea view room at the Radisson Blu, a five-star hotel, they decided to leave early and jet to Dubai instead. Zoe explained that Bali looks better on social media than in real life, as influencers make it look luxurious, despite it being a developing country. In a YouTube video, Zoe told the camera: 'Since landing in Bali, something for us wasn't quite right. 'We came here with high expectations because we had seen on social media that everyone was having such a lovely time. Lovely places to eat and beaches, and lovely gyms and coffee shops. 'But I don't think the reality of Bali is shown much at all, and I do think it is down to a lot of influencers posting the more luxury side of things.' She added: 'Before joining the army, I spent five months travelling South East Asia. I did Thailand, Vietnam, China, Hong Kong, I did a lot and spent time in these countries. But there is something very different about Bali. It left some fans open-mouthed as they called out how she failed to acknowledge the three holidays she's already been on this year Molly has also showed off her new 449 purchase, Dyson OnTrac headphones as she posed for a selfie 'We got told Uluwatu where we are now is one of the best places to go, so if this is one of the better places, I'm not sure where the other places are like. 'I wasn't going to sit down and say anything, but people want to know.' Danny then joined the video and said: 'You either go on holiday to travel and experience culture or you want to go away and relax.' Zoe continued: 'Yeah, and we could have got a flight tomorrow as today is our anniversary, but time is precious and we just want to get out, and why delay it. 'We missed the mark, maybe we didn't do our own research, maybe it is our own fault. I did a lot of research though. 'I think it is just personal preference, and our preference was that this isn't for us, and we are making the executive decision to go enjoy our anniversary somewhere we know that we love and can relax and can drink the water.' Sam Faiers has admitted she doesn't put sunscreen on her children as she shared her controversial opinion on SPF on Tuesday. Currently on holiday in Mallorca, the mother-of-three took to Instagram as she responded to a fans question asking what suntan lotion brand she uses. The former Towie star revealed none of her family use sunscreen as she wrongly claimed some brands of SPF are 'harmful' and full of 'toxic ingredients'. Sharing a snap of her youngest son Edward, two, playing in the shade she wrote: 'So this is always a bit of a controversial one, but honestly, me and my whole family don't actually wear sunscreen. 'Over the years, the kids have built up a really good tolerance to being in the sun. Of course if it's really hot and the sun feels too harsh I'll make sure we head into the shade... usually around lunchtime we'll go in, have something to eat and just avoid those peak hours. 'I'm really careful about sunscreen in general, because a lot of them are actually pretty harmful and full of toxic ingredients.' Sam Faiers has admitted her children don't wear sunscreen as she wrongly claimed many SPF brands are 'harmful' in a controversial statementon Tuesday The former Towie star revealed none of her family use sunscreen as she branded some brands of SPF 'harmful' and full of 'toxic ingredients' Sam then revealed the alternative way she makes sure her children stay safe in the sun as she added: 'If you do want to protect your kids, I think SPF swimwear is such a good and safer option. 'But also, don't be afraid of the sun! Early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it's not as strong, I love letting the kids run around and soak it up, it's good for them. 'That said, I do always bring a Tallow Zinc SPF with me when I go away, just in case. And hats or caps are a must! Especially for us ladies because no one wants extra sun damage (I've had my fair share over the years because I am such a sun lover!).' Sam isn't the first celebrity to admit they don't use SPF on their children after Kelsey Parker, TV personality and widow of The Wanted singer Tom Parkewr, previously claimed that her children 'don't burn' and wrongly alleged SPF 'causes skin cancer'. Speaking on her podcast with fellow mum Georgia Jones she said: 'My kids do not wear sun cream.' Instead, she uses 'organic' sun cream to protect her children and claimed they 'do not burn'. 'Sun cream is so bad', she said, adding that growing up she 'never used to wear sun cream, sun cream causes skin cancer'. 'The only thing that I may put on them is an organic sun cream. My kids, we went on holiday, I never put sun cream on them and they do not burn.' Taking to Instagram,Sam Faiers wrote: 'So this is always a bit of a controversial one, but honestly, me and my whole family don't actually wear sunscreen' Kelsey Parker previously claimed that her children 'don't burn' and wrongly alleged that SPF 'causes skin cancer' Lauryn Goodman also spoke out about suncream last year after she took to Instagram to tell her followers: 'everything you think you know isn't correct' Lauryn Goodman also spoke out about sun cream last year after she took to Instagram to tell her followers: 'you're brought up to wear sun cream [to] protect yourself', but 'everything you think you know isn't correct'. She insisted: 'training your skin is key' as she added: 'It's about building up your melanin to handle the sun as well slowly. 'I did it with K [her eldest son] and will do it with little girlie.' Responding to a comment from a follower who advised that UV rash vests offer 'more protection' than cream, she also said 'skin is so much better in the sun'. Dr Bav Shergill a consultant dermatologist at the Queen Victoria Hospital, London and spokesman for the British Association of Dermatologists hit back at her claims. He previously told the Daily Mail: 'Sunscreens are a safe and effective way to protect your skin from burning and other forms of sun damage. 'Millions of people have used sunscreen over many decades so we can be confident about their safety profile. 'For people with lighter skin tones, there is a common misconception that you can build up a base tan which will protect you. 'A tan is a reaction to sun damage, so to develop a base tan, you have to damage your skin. She insisted: 'training your skin is key' as she added: 'It's about building up your melanin to handle the sun as well slowly' Responding to a comment from a follower who advised that UV rash vests offer 'more protection' than cream, she also said 'skin is so much better in the sun' 'Evidence also suggests that a "base tan" offers the equivalent of SPF 4 not enough to provide meaningful protection.' He added: 'If you don't want to use sunscreen, you need to be really on top of other forms of sun protection. 'Make good use of shade, minimise the time you spend out in the sun when the UV index is three or above, and wear clothing that covers your skin. 'These tend to be very effective ways of protecting your skin though ideally you would use sunscreen in addition to these options as a final line of defence.' Meanwhile Dr Richard Parsons, a senior lecturer in biochemical toxicology at Kings College London, warned that any sunburn still raises the cancer and long term damage risk. He told the Daily Mail last year: 'Building a base tan is fine. But you have still got to have that level of protection. 'If you burn you are still going to increase your chances of getting those DNA mutations which can increase your risk of cancer. 'As you get older, you can get lost elasticity in the skin you can get skin damage like wrinkles. So that's actually lasting damage.' He added: 'We're not talking "I've got a real bad sunburn, but it's ok it'll be gone in a few weeks". That will have lasting implications.' Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald has been confronted by a fan live on air after he refused to take a photo with her after a party. The fan, named Joanne, called into Nova's Fitzy and Wippa with Kate Ritchie show on Tuesday when the hosts requested stories on celebrity encounters. Joanne said she approached Fitzy after a party and asked for a selfie - only to be rebuffed. 'Oh well I was a fan of his for ages... this tall, handsome man, and we were at a party, and I asked him if I could have a photo, and he said no!' Joanne explained. 'What! Who was it?' Fitzy's co-host Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli asked, to which Joanne replied, 'Your friend, Fitzy!' From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald (pictured) has been confronted by a fan live on air after he refused to take a photo with her after a party Fitzy was shocked by the confession, replying, 'Give me a break. I'm always accommodating Joanne, are you serious?' 'I'm serious. You were probably a bit hungover at the time as we all were,' Joanne said with a laugh. 'This was ages ago, we were both at the same function place in Terrey Hills,' she added. 'When the party finished we were all in the foyer there. But you made up for it in the end.' Fitzy asked: 'How did I make up for it? Because I'm really disappointed in myself!' All's well that ends well, Joanne assured the worried radio star, explaining she later got a selfie with him at another event. 'Because I got a photo with you both when Wippa used to have his running club at Hyde Park!' she said. Ryan became a household name by appearing on Channel 10's Big Brother back in 2004. The fan, named Joanne, called into Nova's Fitzy and Wippa with Kate Ritchie show on Tuesday and said the star was 'hungover' and refused her request for a selfie - but she later got one at another event (pictured) Ryan became a household name by appearing on Channel 10's Big Brother back in 2004 (pictured) The 48-year-old recently revealed the surprising amount he was paid to appear on the then controversial reality show. He debunked rumours the cast were raking in the big bucks during his time on the ratings juggernaut. 'A lot of people thought that we got paid a motza when we were on Big Brother. It was $100 a day,' Ryan revealed. While this may seem a pittance, even by 2004 standards, Ryan added that he wasn't perturbed by his paycheck given his lack of expenditures during his reality show stint. 'This is the thing. I was in there for three months and you're not spending that money on anything so it's a long time. It's a good little whack when you get out,' he said. Ryan, who finished fourth on the show's fourth season behind winner Trevor Butler and runners-up Bree Amer and Paul Dyer, said there were some fringe benefits thrown in to soften the blow of his meagre money. 'Back in 2004 when I was on Big Brother, I mean I finished fourth, but I left the show with a Mitsubishi Lancer, a trip to New Caledonia, I think I got a TAG Heuer watch, which I've got somewhere around here,' he said. Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more. Myleene Klass has become synonymous with white bikinis ever since her iconic appearance on I'm A Celeb in 2006. The nation's attention was grabbed when she went for a shower in the jungle while sporting a tiny two-piece, which showcased her incredible frame. And the headlines continued when the radio and TV star, now 47, returned for the all-star series I'm A Celebrity South Africa in 2023 and she wore a version of the swimwear. Iconic moments such as her showers in the skimpy swimwear saw her gain popularity with viewers, and she came second behind Matt Willis. She frequently recreates the moment on various sun-soaked holidays and did exactly that this week while abroad as she penned in the caption: 'forever partial to a white bikini.' Myleene has certainly turned heads with the white two-piece so we've found her exact bikini and other high street versions to copy her sizzling beach look. Myleene Klass' exact bikini The best high street alternatives John Torode's wife Lisa Faulkner has been flooded with support from her celebrity pals as she took to Instagram with an update on Tuesday, TV chef John, 59, recently lost his job on the BBC show after two decades over allegations that he used the N-word, which he claims to have 'absolutely no recollection' of. And now Lisa has thanked the couple's dog for supporting them these past few weeks as she shared a sweet snap with Rory. She penned: 'Our little shadow over the past few weeks. I cant tell you how much Rory has kept me smiling. 'Every day she wakes up wagging her tail, smiling and greeting a new day with her positivity ! My motto really is Be More Rory'. And friends headed straight to the comments to share their support as fellow TV stars Amanda Holden, Cat Deeley and Nicole Appleton sent their love. John Torode's wife Lisa Faulkner has detailed how she has coped these past few weeks as she was flooded with support from celeb pals in an Instagram post on Tuesday TV chef John, 59, recently lost his job on the BBC show after two decades over allegations that he used the N-word, which he claims to have 'absolutely no recollection' of Lisa has thanked the couple's dog for supporting them these past few weeks as she shared a sweet snap with Rory Cat penned: 'Sending big love' while Amanda added: 'Sending you both loads of love' and Kate Thornton added a series of red love hearts. It comes after Lisa broke her silence on Monday after the MasterChef star was sacked as she spoke out for the first time since her husband was fired. She said: 'Hi there, I just wanted to check in and say hello and I'm here. 'Just thank you for all your really lovely comments because they really mean a lot, so thank you.' John was reportedly singing the rapper's hit Gold Digger when he was allegedly 'caught using the racist term during after work drinks six or seven years ago'. But, BBC News has since reported this was not the incident which led to the complaint upheld by the report. This instead related to another incident a year earlier, when he allegedly used the same word on set after filming an episode of MasterChef and it was directed at a member of staff. The news site added that the upheld allegation of racist language was one of nine complaints made against Torode in the report, which also related to allegations of abusive language towards junior production staff and sexual language, and which were not upheld. Friends headed straight to the comments to share their support as fellow TV stars Amanda Holden, Cat Deeley and Nicole Appleton shared their support Others also sent their words of support as they flooded the comments It comes after Lisa broke her silence on Monday after the MasterChef star was sacked as she spoke out for the first time since her husband was fired These allegations were not upheld as they were unsubstantiated due to a lack of evidence or witnesses. The Sun claims Torode used the word again whilst chatting to a friend on the MasterChef production team, who didn't take offence. The Australian-born chef has insisted 'he had absolutely no recollection' of using a racist term while drinking with colleagues seven years ago. The person who raised the complaint is understood to have 'overheard the conversation'. The production pal allegedly backed Torode and said he only used the racial slur as an 'example' and 'apologised afterwards'. MailOnline has contacted BBC and Torode's representatives for comment. A witness told investigators he had apologised immediately, 'was mortified' and 'didn't use the term as a slur' in 2018. The BBC said earlier this month that Torode's contract would not be renewed after a report found he had used an 'extremely offensive racist term'. The corporation has refused to say what the racist term was - as has Torode, who has claimed he did 'not believe that it happened'. Gregg Wallace (right) stepped down from the hit BBC cooking show after complaints were made about his behaviour. His co-host John (left) was then the subject of an allegation about using racist language and was also sacked from the show But it was then described as the 'worst racial slur there is' by Richard Osman, who added of the investigation: 'They found that to be substantively true. They found evidence that they were happy with - that that was true'. Torode said after his sacking, in a lengthy statement posted to Instagram: 'Although I haven't heard from anyone at the BBC or Banijay I am seeing and reading that I've been 'sacked' from MasterChef and I repeat that I have no recollection of what I'm accused of.' The complaint against Torode was revealed in the report into co-presenter Gregg Wallace's inappropriate behaviour. Wallace, 60, was sacked after dozens of complaints against him were upheld. Torode identified himself as an unnamed person in the report who was accused of using 'racist language'. ITV have continued to host the disgraced presenter on his show he shares with his wife, Lisa; John and Lisa's Weekend Kitchen. In the nine months since MasterChef finished filming last Autumn there have been questions over whether it would ever be broadcast following allegations of inappropriate behaviour against presenters Wallace and Torode. Last week the corporation revealed that the amateur series of MasterChef filmed last year, before allegations against Gregg and John were upheld, will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from August 6. ITV have continued to host the disgraced presenter on his show he shares with his wife , Lisa ; John and Lisa's Weekend Kitchen Wallace, 60, was sacked after dozens of complaints against him were upheld The MailOnline understand that the BBC have told the MasterChef production company Banijay that the show should reduce Gregg and John's screen time to a minimum in light of the report's findings. A source said: 'The BBC have made it clear that it should limit the amount of airtime the presenters have in the editing of the new series, with a bigger focus on the contestants who are at the heart of the competition.' 'Neither Gregg nor John will appear in BBC iPlayer thumbnails and they will not be doing any promotional activity around the latest series.' 'All of the brilliant new contestants were consulted on whether the series should be broadcast, and no one objected.' 'Everyone involved is very keen to promote the hard work of the contestants and that will be our priority.' The BBC said it had taken the decision to broadcast the unaired series 'after careful consideration and consultation with the contestants'. In a statement, the corporation said: 'MasterChef is an amazing competition which is life-changing for the amateur chefs taking part. The focus of it has always been their skill and their journey.' The BBC also said it had not yet taken a decision on the completed celebrity series and Christmas special, filmed with Torode and food critic Grace Dent. The BBC also said it had not yet taken a decision on the completed celebrity series and Christmas special, filmed with Torode (left) and food critic Grace Dent (right) In its statement, the BBC said: 'This has not been an easy decision in the circumstances and we appreciate not everyone will agree with it. 'In showing the series, which was filmed last year, it in no way diminishes our view of the seriousness of the upheld findings against both presenters. We have been very clear on the standards of behaviour that we expect of those who work at the BBC or on shows made for the BBC. 'However, we believe that broadcasting this series is the right thing to do for these cooks who have given so much to the process. We want them to be properly recognised and give the audience the choice to watch the series.' The BBC concluded its statement by describing MasterChef as 'a brilliant, much-loved programme which is bigger than any one individual'. 'There are many talented, dedicated and hard-working people who make the show what it is. It will continue to flourish on the BBC and we look forward to it returning stronger than ever in the future.' The corporation has revealed that the amateur series of MasterChef filmed last year, before allegations against Gregg and John were upheld, will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from August 6 The MailOnline understand that the BBC have told the MasterChef production company Banijay that the show should reduce Gregg and John's screen time to a minimum in light of the report's findings The BBC said it had taken the decision to broadcast the unaired series 'after careful consideration and consultation with the contestants' But some people are not happy with the decision, including former workers on the show. While former contestants on the show previously said that being on MasterChef can be 'life-changing' for them. Some of the women who came forward with claims against Gregg have said they didn't think it should be shown. One former MasterChef worker told BBC News it would show 'a real lack of respect' to people like her if the series was aired, while another warned it would 'make a mockery' of the people who have spoken out. Kate Moss put on a very leggy display in a lime green dress in a shoot for Yves Saint Laurent's Fall 2025 campaign. The supermodel, 51, proved she's still got it as she flaunted her age-defying figure in the sexy shoot. Kate was joined by American actress and director Chloe Sevigny, 50, along with model Frankie Rayder. Mother-of-one Kate, whose daughter is model Lila Moss, 22, posed for very sultry swimming pool shots with Chloe. Chloe, who most recently starred in Netflix's Monster, placed her hand beneath Kate's cleavage as they floated in the water. American model Frankie, 50, confidently stripped off for one shot while posing under a blanket. Kate Moss, 51, put on a very leggy display in a lime green dress in a shoot for Yves Saint Laurent's Fall 2025 campaign She also posed in sexy white lace lingerie in another frame The supermodel proved she's still got it as she flaunted her age-defying figure in the sexy shoot Kate was joined by American actress and director Chloe Sevigny (pictured), 50, along with model Frankie Rayder Chloe, who most recently starred in Netflix's Monster, placed her hand beneath Kate's cleavage as they floated in the water The sexy shoot saw Kate, Chloe and Frankie film in the heart of Los Angeles for the AW25 campaign. Kate was also seen reclining behind the wheel of a convertible in a faux fur coat and sunglasses. Being a renowned supermodel, shed know a thing or two about fashion. So its no surprise Kate has taken it upon herself to police poorly dressed pedestrians. I like going, What are they thinking? she admits. I dont want to be judgy, but you know when youre like, Nee naw, nee naw, fashion police! According to Daily Mail's Richard Eden, Kate added: It was the weirdest look. She had a pork-pie hat, a yellow Chanel backpack, tights, leather shorts, a yellow Nike high top trainer. 'I pulled them over and said, Where are you from? They said France. Theyre definitely not from Paris, thats for sure. Kate recently sparked concern among her fanbase after being filmed looking 'fraught' and 'on edge' as she sat front row at Paris Fashion Week. Kate was thought to have given up alcohol back in 2017 in favour of juice fasts and reformer Pilates, even selling her own range of teas and skincare products through her beauty and wellness brand, Cosmoss. Kate modelled a stunning burgundy YSL handbag Mother-of-one Kate, whose daughter is model Lila Moss , 22, posed for very sultry shots with Chloe Kate was also seen reclining behind the wheel of a convertible in a faux fur coat and sunglasses Kate flashed her toned legs in a ruffled burnt orange skirt, teamed with oversized leather jacket Chloe flashed her ample cleavage in a black low-cut swimsuit American model Frankie Rayder (pictured), 50, confidently stripped off for one shot while posing under a blanket The sexy shoot saw Kate, Chloe and Frankie film in the heart of Los Angeles for the AW25 campaign Frankie looked dapper in a sophisticated grey suit and tie look And while she has long struggled to give up her nicotine habit, just two years ago Kate - once hailed the 'greatest smoker of all time' - was seen puffing away on a vape in an attempt to give up the cigarettes. Back in January, Kate was reportedly planning a huge boozy birthday bash to celebrate her 51st birthday following her split from boyfriend of nine years, Nikolai von Bismarck, 38. Kate, who lived in the Cotswolds with teetotal photographer Nikolai, apparently decided at the time that she 'wants to let her hair down' to mark her birthday with her famous pals. A source told The Sun: 'Last year, she celebrated her 50th at an intimate soiree in Paris, which was fairly pared down. 'But a lot has changed since then and Kate has said she wants this party to be like turning over a new leaf. 'Now that her daughter Lila is all grown up and she is single again, Kate feels like she wants to let her hair down and be carefree which is not something she's been able to do for a long time. 'She is looking on the bright side of life. Although it's sad her relationship is over, she is throwing herself back into her social life and embracing the new year.' She went on to start her new chapter celebrating her 51st birthday at A-list restaurant China Tang at The Dorchester before continuing her night until the early hours at The Globe in London's Notting Hill. Queen Mary has been rushed indoors after being struck by a painful ailment in the middle of an official appearance. The Australian-born royal was accompanied by her husband, King Frederik, 57, their daughter Princess Isabella, 18, and son Prince Vincent, 14, at an event in Grasten, Denmark on Monday. While greeting her admirers, Mary, 53, who was carrying a bouquet of flowers given to her by one of her fans, suddenly winced and grabbed at her leg. She began limping and rubbing her thigh, seemingly in pain, and appeared distressed as her husband and children rushed to check on her. Mary attempted to carry on, but was soon whisked away to a nearby hotel, cutting short the outing. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Queen Mary (pictured) has been rushed indoors after being struck by a painful ailment in the middle of an official appearance The queen was stung by a wasp, reports later claimed, and while she was unable to proceed, she insisted her family stay behind to finish the engagement. 'The queen certainly did not seem to be badly affected by the encounter with the stinging wasp, and she, together with the king, Isabella and Vincent, made sure to greet the many citizens who had gathered in the square,' Danish publication Billed-Bladet reported. Once she recovered from the sting, Queen Mary joined her family at Grasten Palace, where the family will spend their summer holidays over the next few weeks. Mary and her husband recently embarked on a European summer getaway. The Danish royal couple - joined by their 14-year-old twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine - have spent much of this past month enjoying some R&R at the royal-owned Chateau de Cayx in Cahors, France. Danish publications reported that in early July they jetted to Cahors, located in the Midi-Pyrenees region, an area famous for its Malbec wine. And it appears they were having such a fantastic time there that they decided to extend their stay twice. Danish publication BILLED-BLADET reported that Frederik and Mary originally planned to return to their duties in Denmark by July 13, but later updated their plans, announcing they would stay a few extra days. The Australian-born royal was accompanied by her husband, King Frederik, 57, (right) their daughter Princess Isabella, 18, and son Prince Vincent, 14, at an event in Grasten, Denmark on Monday While greeting her admirers, Mary, 53, who was carrying a bouquet of flowers given to her by one of her fans, suddenly winced and grabbed at her leg. She began limping and rubbing her thigh, seemingly in pain The queen was stung by a wasp, reports later claimed, and while she was unable to proceed, she insisted her family (pictured) stay behind to finish the engagement This date was then extended further, with the royal family's official return to Grasten Castle slated for July 28. In the King and Queen's absence, the role as regent would fall to the next in line to the throne - their teenage son Crown Prince Christian - but he was initially unavailable. The lack of royal family members to pick up the baton meant there was no other option but to bring Queen Margrethe out of retirement. As Mary and Fred extended their vacation for a second time, the former monarch - who abdicated the throne following a 52-year reign in 2024 - was left to run the show from July 9 to July 15. When he was available, Crown Prince Christian then stepped up, with the 19-year-old holding down the fort until July 20. Read more: Miranda Kerr gushes over her tech billionaire husband Evan Spiegel while enjoying Japan holiday Miranda Kerr has shared her sorrow after the death of Sir Michael Hill, the founder of Michael Hill Jewellers. The Australian supermodel shared a moving tribute to Hill after his death at the age of 86, after a long battle with cancer. 'I'm deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Michael Hill,' the 42-year-old told Stellar on Tuesday. 'He was a true visionary whose passion and creativity helped shape a brand that has brought joy to so many around the world,' she continued. 'I feel incredibly honoured to be part of the brand he built with integrity, passion and heart. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Miranda Kerr (pictured) has shared her sorrow after the death of Sir Michael Hill, the founder of Michael Hill Jewellers 'My love and deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and the entire Michael Hill team.' Michael Hill International Limited confirmed his passing on Tuesday morning, sharing a statement to the ASX and NZX that paid tribute to the celebrated jeweller and philanthropist. 'It is with great sadness that Michael Hill International Limited announces the passing of our Founder and Non-Executive Director, Sir Michael Hill this morning,' the company said. 'Sir Michael was a celebrated jeweller, entrepreneur, philanthropist and committed father and husband. 'With his wife Lady Christine, he founded and grew Michael Hill from its humble beginnings in Whangarei, New Zealand to a global retail jewellery brand that spans Australia, New Zealand and Canada. The statement continued: 'The Board, Executive and all the Michael Hill team express their deepest and sincerest condolences to Michael's family and friends.' He died at his family home in Arrowtown, on New Zealand's South Island. Hill launched his first jewellery store in Whangarei in 1979, laying the groundwork for a global retail empire with hundreds of stores. 'I'm deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Michael Hill,' the 42-year-old told Stellar on Tuesday. Hill is pictured with Kim Kardashian in 2010 He is survived by his wife Christine and their two children Today, the brand operates 287 stores across Australia, New Zealand and Canada. His iconic and affordable jewellery was worn by some of the world's most famous stars, including Kim Kardashian and Miranda Kerr. In 2010, he launched a business venture with US reality TV star Kim Kardashian, to find the 'world's best couple'. The pair offered a 22-carat Michael Hill diamond engagement ring as a prize to the winners. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid tribute to Hill in a statement. 'Sir Michael Hill's aspiration, grit, and determination to succeed not only built a globally recognised brand, but also inspired generations of Kiwi entrepreneurs to dream big,' he said. 'He built a brand from scratch and gave back to the country that he loved. May he rest in peace.' His jewellery empire was worth over AU$700m worldwide, and he had a personal net worth of around AU$300m. Hill was knighted in 2011 for services to business and the arts. He is survived by his wife Christine and their two children, Mark and Emma. Teddi Mellencamp is still living with her estranged husband Edwin Arroyave as she battles stage four cancer. The reality star, whose Los Angeles mansion was targeted by burglars, opened up about her unusual living arrangements in an appearance on the Jamie Kern Lima Show on Tuesday. When the pair first separated in October 2024, they opted to let their kids, Slate, 12, Cruz, 10, and Dove, five, live in their family home full time while Mellencamp, 44, and Arroyave, 48, took turns. Mellencamp's friend Kyle Richards provided a space for her to stay and once joked, 'I have shared custody with Teddi Mellencamp. She lives with me on Tuesdays and Wednesdays,' on Bravo's Hot Mic podcast. After Mellencamp was diagnosed with brain tumors and stage four cancer, that situation changed. Though there are times when Arroyave has stayed at their other house, when Mellencamp told him she was feeling 'really sick,' he decided to stay 'downstairs in the bedroom at our house right now.' She also said she wants him to start dating someone new. Teddi Mellencamp, 44, is separated from her husband, Edwin Arroyave, 48, but the two have put their divorce on hold and living together in the same house as she battle stage four cancer 'We can live in the same house,' explained Mellencamp. 'We dont argue. 'I always knew he'd do the right thing by me,' the former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star said. 'If he wanted to, he could still be filing and finishing this divorce off right now. But, my dad [musician John Mellencamp] and family just said like, "I don't think this is the right thing for her to be able to try to navigate right now or figure out."' 'It was like, "Yeah, of course. No, we'll wait. We'll wait until she's better, and then well figure it out."' Mellencamp was rumored to have been involved in an affair prior to the official split, but in an appearance on The Skinny Confidential podcast in February, she hinted strongly that Arroyave's infidelity had been a problem for years. 'Me and Edwin had some of the most amazing years and the most amazing times, and when we met it was hot and it was all the things, and then there would be somebody else,' she admitted. 'And I'd be like, "It's okay, I'm gonna work through it, I'm gonna make him love me more!" Then you have kids and things happen,' she continued. Now she is giving him her blessing to see other women. 'I would be fine with him dating,' she told Lima. The former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star opened up about her living situation in an appearance on The Jamie Kern Lima Show, which was released on Tuesday When the pair first split, they decided it would be best for kids Slate, 12, Cruz, 10, and Dove, five and Arroyave's daughter Isabella, 16, to stay at the house, while they took turns living there The reality star had surgery to remove four brain tumors removed in February. Arroyave is currently staying in a downstairs bedroom. 'We can live in the same house,' she said. 'We dont argue' 'Is he fine with you dating?' the host asked. 'I don't know. We've talked about it. 'I think everyone is my life is worried about me in general. So, for a little while, I was dating somebody. 'It went all over the press and everybody's talking about it and I'm like, "One: this is long enough ago that by the time you found out who the person was I wasn't dating the person.' The former reality star said she also talked to her therapist asking, 'if I feel the urge, if I get asked on a date or if somebody wants to take me out, shes like, "You should go." 'She's like, "Anything that you want to do right now and you feel in your heart that you want to do, do it." She's like, "It could be if [Edwin] asked you on a date and you wanted to go, nobody's setting any rules for you."' Mellencamp has give her blessing to Arroyave to see other women. 'I would be fine with him dating,' she told Lima; Pictured in Las Vegas in September 2022 As for for herself, the personal trainer said, 'for a little while, I was dating somebody. It went all over the press' but the relationship has since ended As for dating herself, the reality star said her therapist had encouraged her to do 'Anything that you want to do right now and you feel in your heart that you want to do, do it' Mellencamp said that 'right now, Im not wanting that from him.' 'I just want him to be happy, and I want our kids to be happy, and I want us to be able to have a good friendship and relationship,' she explained. 'I don't want to do anything to hurt him,' she said, adding, 'I kind of know how our marriage works.' Although she referred to Arroyave as her ex-husband at one time in the conversation , the personal trainer joked that she was unsure about 'what you call somebody you were married to, then you filed for divorce, and then you got cancer, so then everything went on hold.' Sydney Sweeney is facing intense backlash over her latest American Eagle campaign and it's stirring a fierce debate about race, marketing and accountability. Earlier this week, the Euphoria star, 27, became the face of American Eagle's fall denim campaign featuring the tagline, 'Sydney Sweeney has great jeans' a deliberate play on the phrase 'great genes.' One viral clip shows Sweeney standing in front of a poster reading 'Sydney Sweeney has great genes,' with the word 'genes' crossed out and replaced with 'jeans.' Another video includes Sweeney saying, 'Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality and even eye color,' as the camera pans to her blue eyes, then she adds, 'My jeans are blue.' While the campaign's clever wordplay was intended to be playful and bold, it ignited accusations on social media platforms of promoting racial undertones, eugenics, and white supremacy largely due to the focus on genetics alongside Sweeney's blue-eyed image. As of Tuesday morning, neither Sweeney nor American Eagle had publicly addressed the controversy, a silence that's become its own lightning rod. Sydney Sweeney is facing intense backlash over her latest American Eagle campaign and it's stirring a fierce debate about race, marketing, and accountability Daily Mail has reached out to Sweeney's team and American Eagle for comment, but they have not yet responded. Amid the backlash, crisis PR expert Eric Schiffer didn't mince his words about the risks of Sweeney's silence in an interview with DailyMail.com. 'Sydney's mute button is a toxic timebomb with some people on the left every hour of hush hurls her wholesome brand deeper into racial quicksand,' the CEO of Reputation Management Consultants claimed. He warned that failing to speak out 'will be seen as a brutal insult to many shoppers on the left.' Schiffer continued, 'Sydney's nocomment stance will scream ruthless privilege to those offended and critics feast on the void like vultures on a desert carcass.' Still, Schiffer acknowledged how Sweeney staying quiet might resonate differently with conservative audiences. 'For conservatives, Sydney refusing to grovel denies the mob its delicious publicshaming ritual and would be seen as a brutal power move,' he said. 'Because for conservatives, silence isn't weakness, it's an ironclad shield against manipulative narrativehijackers.' The Euphoria star, 27, became the face of American Eagle's fall denim campaign featuring the tagline, 'Sydney Sweeney has great jeans' a deliberate play on the phrase 'great genes' Sweeney, who was born in Spokane, Washington, was raised in northwestern Idaho before moving to Los Angeles to pursue acting. The ad campaign remains visible on American Eagle's website, which lauds Sweeney's 'girl next door charm' and 'main character energy.' But for many observers, charm and brushing off the critics alone won't defuse what's now become a PR landmine. Alexandria Hurley, a Las Vegas-based publicist, speculated to DailyMail.com that the idea to stir the pot was not a mistake at all. 'From a PR perspective, what we're seeing from Sydney Sweeney isn't a "misstep" or "Pepsi moment." It's a calculated brand evolution. The idea that this ad slipped through the cracks underestimates both her and her team,' she explained. Hurley went on to point out: 'Sydney has flirted with controversy before from her SNL Hooters skit to her recent Bathwater Bliss collaboration with Dr. Squatch and rather than walk it back after criticism, she's leaned further in. That's not oversight. That's strategy.' She also stressed that the 'Great Genes' tagline was 'deliberately' provocative and that the 'racial undertones being called out aren't subtle.' 'Instead of apologizing, she and American Eagle quickly pivoted with a visual 'fix,' having her paint over the billboard. It's a gesture that looks performative at best, especially in the absence of any direct acknowledgement of the criticism,' Hurley stated. While the campaign's clever wordplay was intended to be playful, it ignited accusations on social media of promoting white supremacy due to the focus on Sweeney's blue-eyed image As of Tuesday morning, neither Sweeney nor American Eagle had publicly addressed the controversy, a silence that's become its own lightning rod As for whether the silence is hurting Sweeney, Hurley responded: 'Not necessarily because I don't think silence is the problem. It's the intention. This is a play for attention, not respectability. She's embracing a kind of polarizing, headline-generating persona and for now, it's working. It has people talking, and brands who care more about reach than responsibility may still line up. That's the gamble.' Jonathon Narvey, CEO and Founder of Mind Meld PR Inc., offered a similar perspective. 'It's possible that American Eagle was counting on precisely this kind of media buzz. It's not that the ad itself is controversial. The tagline is vaguely funny and Sydney Sweeney is an attractive person, so on its own, maybe this fashion advertisement would have been destined for a 'meh' kind of reaction. But the Internet being what it is, they may have anticipated this so-called controversy,' he conjectured. Christina Kroll, founder of Kroll PR, pointed to the layered risks in fashion messaging today: 'In today's hyper-aware media climate, where every word is scrutinized for tone and implication, simplicity isn't always a strength.' Kroll concluded: 'Campaigns like this demand the insight of seasoned professionals, not interns, because understanding nuance and cultural context is critical.' Grayce McCormick, founder of Lightfinder Public Relations and crisis communications strategist, stressed the dangers of silence. 'A direct acknowledgment would humanize her, affirm that she's listening, and model accountability to her young, diverse audience,' McCormick advised. Crisis PR expert Eric Schiffer (pictured above) didn't mince words about the risks of Sweeney's non-response in an interview with DailyMail.com as he called her silence 'a toxic timebomb' He warned that failing to speak out 'will be seen as a brutal insult to many shoppers on the left' (seen in May 2025) Toni Ferrara, founder and CEO of Ferrara Media, pushed back on the severity of the criticism. 'Not every controversy needs a Notes app apology. Sydney isn't a politician, she's the face of a denim ad. Her silence isn't necessarily making things worse, it's often smarter to let the brand take the lead when the message and controversy stems from their creative direction,' Ferrara said. Alexandria Hammond, Principal at BrandNEWS PR Consulting Firm, weighed in on Sweeney's responsibility in this situation. 'This situation is 75% American Eagle's responsibility and 25% Sydney Sweeney's. Major brands must have diverse voices in decision-making positions to avoid situations like this,' Hammond added. 'The only reason we're hearing about this one is because of who the brand and the talent are. Sydney absolutely has the right and the platform to question the brand's messaging. By agreeing to this campaign, she essentially co-signed both the brand and its message.' Hammond warned, 'Sydney needs to acknowledge her privilege as a white woman in her response. She cannot hide behind American Eagle's misstep because she was a willing participant. In agreeing to this campaign, she showed that for the right price, she was willing to ignore the values of her diverse, young fan base. Bottom line: she sold out.' The ad campaign remains visible on American Eagle's website, which lauds Sweeney's 'girl next door charm' and 'main character energy' Meanwhile, celebrity publicist Sarah Anne Schmidt offered a balanced view on next steps. 'Unless she was deeply involved in the messaging itself, it's likely the final language was handled by the brand's creative team or agency partners. In this case, the public backlash centers on the tagline, not the visuals or creative choices that most talent weigh in on,' Schmidt said. Schmidt also emphasized the importance of response timing as 'silence creates a vacuum.' 'Speed, candor, and authenticity are the foundation of trust. A response should come from Sydney, but depending on her contract, she may not be able to speak until she aligns with the brand on their shared path forward. When she does, the tone should be empathetic and direct, not defensive,' the publicist recommended. Toni Ferrara, founder and CEO of Ferrara Media, pushed back on the severity of the criticism and reminded the world 'not every controversy needs a Notes app apology' Alexandria Hurley, a Las Vegas-based publicist (seen above), pointed out 'Sydney has flirted with controversy before from her SNL Hooters skit to her recent 'Bathwater Bliss' collaboration' Publicist Courtney Haywood echoed the call for direct accountability. 'In this moment, silence is for sure not golden! Silence doesn't equal neutrality, and it reads as indifference,' she said. 'Especially in a cultural climate where audiences are more aware and vocal than ever, waiting too long to speak up only adds fuel to the fire.' Haywood urged Sweeney to 'own the moment' and not 'hide behind legal jargon or brand language.' 'Acknowledge how it landed, thank the people who spoke up, and commit to learning from it. That's what builds long-term credibility, not perfection,' she said. As the debate over American Eagle's campaign continues to unfold, Sweeney's next steps are being closely watched. Whether she chooses to address the controversy directly or remains silent, the situation underscores the growing challenges celebrities and brands face navigating cultural sensitivity in today's hyper-connected, politically charged landscape. Catherine Zeta-Jones has detailed her surprisingly low-key family staycations with her husband Michael Douglas and their two kids. The Wednesday star, 55, and the American actor, 80, have been married since 2000 and share two children - Dylan, 24, and Carys, 21. The couple have raised their children amid the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, but also enjoy some very low-key family moments away from the spotlight. Catherine has revealed she and Michael have taken their kids on UK staycations to Butlin's and Legoland - despite their 250million ($360million) combined net worth. She told Radio Times of her kids: 'They've been to Butlin's, Legoland, seen the sights in London, up to Scotland, over to Ireland. They've even been to the Isle of Man, I think.' Catherine added that she insists her children spend two weeks in her native Wales every year to spend time with her parents - David James Jones and Patricia Fair. Catherine Zeta-Jones has detailed her surprisingly low-key family staycations with her husband Michael Douglas (pictured in 2023) and their two kids The Wednesday star, 55, and the American actor, 80, have been married since 2000 and share two children - Dylan, 24, and Carys, 21 (all pictured) However, Dylan and Carys have also enjoyed some bucket list trips abroad over the years including to India, Patagonia, Africa and Cambodia, among others. Catherine said she always wanted to be a mother and sweetly described it as one of her biggest achievements. 'Having children is one of the most amazing joys of my life,' she gushed, before reflecting on how motherhood changed her perspective on the world. 'All of a sudden, I saw doom and gloom everywhere,' she quipped. 'My husband would be throwing them up in the air and I'd be thinking, ''We have ceiling fans! They'll be decapitated!'' 'I started to see the worst-case scenarios everywhere. But I think that's just getting older and thinking ''Ooh, what if?''' Catherine added that having children brought home the amount of work her parents put in raising her and her two brothers David and Lyndon in Swansea. 'My mother brought up three kids. She had no help. My brother was judo, my other brother was swimming, I was dancing,' she explained. Catherine has revealed she and Michael have taken their kids on UK staycations to Butlin's and Legoland - despite their 250million net worth (Michael is pictured with their kids in 2024) However, Dylan and Carys have also enjoyed some bucket list trips abroad over the years including to India (pictured), Patagonia, Africa and Cambodia, among others 'I was part of the amateur dramatics, the Dylan Thomas Theatre, I'm sure there was gymnastics thrown in there at some point 'Just taking us to all of that, as a parent you think, ''Oh my gosh,'' whereas as a kid you're p****d off that she was five minutes late in picking you up that one time.' Catherine and Michael are both household names in Hollywood and their two lookalike children look set to follow in their showbiz footsteps. Carys recently finished her degree in Film and International Relations from Brown University in Rhode Island and is also a skilled piano player. Carys' has four acting credits so far listed on IMDB, with her work including her taking on directorial roles in short films Shell and August. Her latest film, another short called F*ck That Guy, headed to the PROOF Film Festival in Los Angeles and saw Spike Lee serve as an executive producer. Her brother Dylan is also in the spotlight and hosts Young American - 'Gen Z powered political talk show' - with Dylan Douglas. Catherine has previously opened up about how both her children are determined to get into acting - despite a candid warning from their father. Catherine and Michael (pictured with Carys in May 2023) are both household names in Hollywood and their two lookalike children look set to follow in their showbiz footsteps Read Catherine's full interview in Radio Times, out now She said on The Drew Barrymore Show in 2021: 'Their love of the craft of acting is so strong that even when their brains are doing politics and history in school, their passion is acting. 'And they've never done anything professional, but they would like to go into acting.' Acting certainly runs in the family as Michael is also the son of legendary actor Kirk Douglas and actress Diana Dill, though he warned Carys about always being known as 'the daughter of...' in Hollywood. Catherine and Michael have been in a relationship since 1998 after meeting for the first time at the Deauville Film Festival in 1996. They tied the knot in 2000 and celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary in November of last year. Read the full interview in Radio Times, out now. When Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty returned to Blighty from Los Angeles, they had such high hopes for the future that they splashed out 5million on their 'forever home' in London's leafy Hampstead. But yesterday the showbiz couple broke the sad news that they had split after 12 years of marriage. In a joint statement, Ms Deeley, 48, and Kielty, 54, confirmed: 'We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated. There is no other party involved.' They added: 'We will continue to be united as loving parents to our children and would therefore kindly ask for our family privacy to be respected.' Sources have now told the Daily Mail that the couple 'have been living separate lives for the best part of a year'. An insider said: 'It is such sad news. They were so happy after they moved back to London, and would talk about their grand plans to renovate the house for the family. 'But sadly, as so often happens with relationships, work got in the way and it put a huge strain on the marriage.' Since 2023, Kielty has maintained a gruelling schedule, commuting to Dublin to present The Late Late Show while also hosting Saturday mornings on Radio 5 Live. Our source added: 'When Cat took the This Morning job in 2024, they were becoming more and more like ships in the night. Patrick, in particular, has been spending more time in his native Dundrum where he has had a home for 25 years. His aunt died on Christmas Eve, and his mother's health was up and down before her death in March. Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty 'have been living separate lives for the best part of a year' The former couple together in 2024, shortly before things started to unravel as their schedules became too great a burden on the marriage Ms Deeley and Kielty first met in 2002 while they hosted BBC talent show Fame Academy 'His brothers John and Cahal have been such a comfort to him.' Suspicion that the couple might split was first sparked in March, when Kielty carried his mother Mary's coffin through his home village, where he was joined by close family members. There was no sign of Ms Deeley. The mother of two, who presented This Morning on the day of the funeral, later explained that she stayed home to support their two young children, Milo, nine, and James, seven, who were mourning their grandmother. A spokesman said at the time: 'Cat remained at home to be there for her two young children before and after school on this very sad day.' A month later, Ms Deeley was pictured in Marbella looking downcast with her parents Janet and Howard. I'm also told that the renovation plans for the 5million home bought in 2023 put additional 'stress' on the couple. Ms Deeley documented how the 1950s property was stripped back, with ambitions to create a grand entrance hall, demolish a living room mezzanine floor and extend the bedrooms and terrace. 'In one clip, she said she was overwhelmed by the project, admitting: 'I'm not going to lie, I got a bit of a shock today. Not much house, lots of air.' The five-bedroom home is also said to have a 'nanny suite', guest room, his and hers dressing rooms, a bar, snug and children's play area planned, while the existing garage will be converted into a 'boot room' and office. Ms Deeley had also recently discussed whether separate rooms were the key to a happy marriage on This Morning, when she revealed she slept in a separate bedroom from Kielty in the week. She explained: 'It's one of those things that because of our schedule here [This Morning], from Monday to Thursday I sleep in the guest bedroom and the rest of the time I'm back. Because otherwise I get up at 5am and I want to fall asleep earlier.' Kielty presents The Late Late Show on Fridays, but often flies to Dublin in the days before to prepare sections. Asked about their schedules last year, Kielty said: 'There are lots of people who are getting up earlier than we are and see less of each other than we do. We're quite lucky where there are days where we see each other right the way through. It's no hardship. Cat alongside This Morning co-host Ben Shephard. She joined the show in 2024 'We probably could have timed it better in terms of the juggle. I've always said that this is a dream job for me. For Cat, This Morning is one of the biggest jobs in TV over there. So, for the two of us to be doing two big shows like that is kind of mad.' He added: 'I've had my house in Dundrum for 25 years now and I've always been back and forth. The kids are in school in London and Cat works in London, she's there four days a week. 'I can just about come to Dublin to do what I do, but she's in ITV four days a week.' Asked whether he would ever consider moving to the Emerald isle, he said there were 'no plans yet' but added that Dundrum would always be his 'home'. Ms Deeley and Kielty first met in 2002 while they hosted BBC talent show Fame Academy. But friendship turned to romance ten years later when he flew from Belfast to Los Angeles for a surprise birthday brunch with Cat. He previously told the Mail: 'Well, there had always been a spark between us, but either she was with someone or I was, and then she moved to LA. Unless someone was stupid enough to get on a plane, nothing would have happened.' They married in a secret ceremony in Rome in 2012 with close family and friends. The couple lived in California for over 14 years, where Ms Deeley presented So You Think You Can Dance. They put their Beverly Hills mansion on the market for 3.8million and moved back to North London in 2020, prior to Cat securing her This Morning job. It followed a terrible incident in which Patrick and their son hid from a gunman in an LA mall. Before marrying Kielty, Ms Deeley was married to businessman Mark Whelan for five years. They divorced in 2006. Kielty was in a high-profile relationship with presenter Amanda Bryam for five years, separating in 2003. Adam Levine is facing a federal lawsuit over an Instagram post he shared in 2019 urging support for Hurricane Dorian victims. According to court documents, obtained by Billboard, filed earlier this week, the Maroon 5 frontman, 46, allegedly included copyrighted video footage of storm damage in the Bahamas without permission from the owner. The lawsuit, brought by Global Weather Productions LLC, claims Levine used footage taken in the Abacos Islands, one of the hardest-hit areas during the storm, without securing a proper license. The video was originally published on September 3, 2019, by 'professional storm chaser' Michael Brandon Clement and, according to the lawsuit, is owned by Global Weather Productions, a licensing company that has filed multiple similar suits in recent years. Levine allegedly shared the video three days later in a September 6, 2019, Instagram post, which highlighted the devastation caused by Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas and Carolinas. He also urged his followers to donate to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. Adam Levine is facing a federal lawsuit over an Instagram post he shared in 2019 urging support for Hurricane Dorian victims But Global Weather Productions says the charitable intent doesn't excuse what it views as a clear case of copyright infringement. 'As a musician and author, defendant has significant experience in copyright matters and is familiar with specific practices including the need to ensure that content used in his posts has been properly licensed,' the lawsuit states. 'As a content creator himself, defendant should be particularly sensitive to the unauthorized use of his works.' The company says it made several attempts earlier this year to contact Levine's team in order to resolve the issue outside of court. According to the complaint, Global Weather Productions reached out in April and followed up again in May, but reportedly never received a response. 'Despite plaintiff's efforts and willingness to address defendant's infringing activity, defendant failed to respond, and plaintiff was forced to seek judicial intervention for defendant's infringing activity,' the suit claims. Now, the company is seeking damages that could total up to $150,000 under federal copyright law. Global Weather Productions has filed dozens of similar lawsuits since 2023, targeting both major media outlets, including Reuters, Univision, and NewsNation and public figures such as model Molly Sims. As of now, Levine has not publicly responded to the lawsuit. The Maroon 5 frontman, 46, allegedly included copyrighted video footage of storm damage in the Bahamas without permission from the owner (The destruction following Hurricane Dorian in Abaco island Bahamas picture above in 2019) Daily Mail has reached out to Levine's representatives, but they have not yet responded. In addition to trying to help raise funds for Hurricane Dorian victims, Levine has been involved in various charitable endeavors from supporting youth mental health to U.S. education programs. Earlier this month, he celebrated his 11th wedding anniversary with wife Behati Prinsloo. The couple share two daughters, Dusty Rose and Gio Grace, six, as well as a two-year-old son, whose name has not been publicly revealed. Restaurant chains across the US are celebrating National Chicken Wing Day on Tuesday, with brands competing to give fans the best deals. Billions of chicken wings are consumed every year in the US. On Super Bowl Sunday this year, Americans devoured a staggering 1.45 billion wings over the course of just one day. Wings are served in restaurants nationwide and are especially popular at the best chicken chains in the nation. Chains like Applebee's and Hooters are offering guests a chance to save money while getting messy for one day to celebrate National Chicken Wing Day this year. Whether they're small price cuts or buy one get one free, all the deals will be making customers want to stuff their faces with wings. Some chains are offering deals that last for more than 24 hours, while others are reserved for Rewards members only. Here are the chains offering a wide variety of chicken wing deals fit to satisfy all carnivorous customers. Several chains nationwide are celebrating National Chicken Wing Day with 24 hour only deals Applebee's Applebee's is offering customers a one-day-only Buy One, Get One Free Boneless Wings or Classic Bone-In Wings to-go when they order online or through the mobile app. Customers can choose any of its six boneless wing flavors: Classic buffalo, honey BBQ, sweet Asian Chile, garlic parmesan, extra hot buffalo and honey pepper. The offer is limited to one redemption per transaction and redeemable when using the promo code 'WINGDAY25' at checkout. Buffalo's Cafe Buffalo's Cafe is offering signature bone-in or boneless wings for 75 cents each Buffalo's Cafe is celebrating National Chicken Wing Day by offering signature bone-in or boneless wings for 75 cents each. This deal is available for carry-out orders and when dining at any of its 15+ full-service restaurants. The Georgia-based chain is famous for its chicken wings and its 18 house-made sauces that go with them. Buffalo Wild Wings Buffalo Wild Wings guests can snag six free boneless or traditional wings on July 29 with a minimum $10 purchase. The offer is available at any of the chain's more than 1,300 US restaurants and available for customers who use the promo code 'FREEWINGS' when placing an order on the Buffalo Wild Wings app. Fans will be able to order chicken wings with any of the chain's 26 sauces, including its new permanent menu item, honey garlic. Dave & Buster's Dave & Buster's is offering 20 wings for $20 at participating locations Dave & Buster's visitors can stop by its restaurants after a day at the arcade and purchase 20 wings for $20. The dine-in deal will be available for one day only at participating locations. Guests opting to snag some wings can choose between eight sauces or five dry rubs. Hooters Hooters is offering a buy 10, get 10 free deal at participating locations for one day only Hooters is not letting its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing get in the way of its annual National Chicken Wing Day celebration. Customers eating at participating US locations can buy 10 chicken wings and get 10 for free. This deal can be applied to any style of wings the chain offers and guests can choose between 15 signature sauces and six dry rubs. Hurricane Grill & Wings Restaurant guests will have the privilege of snacking on 99-cent chicken wings all day long. The deal is applied to orders with a minimum purchase of five wings and valid for dine-in and carry-out orders from its more than 40 locations. Known for its tropical, laid-back vibe, Hurricane Grill & Wings features flavorful foods and over 35 signature sauces for its chicken wings. Native Grill & Wings Guests can score 49-cent wings with the purchase of any drink at Native Grill & Wings Native Grill & Wings fans can score 49-cent wings with the purchase of any drink on National Chicken Wing Day. The deal is valid for customers who dine in or place to-go orders on the Native Grill & Wings app. Guests looking take up the chain's offer can choose from over 20 award-winning wing flavors that can be ordered by the individual wing. Pluckers Wing Bar This year, annual Chicken Wing Day takes place during Pluckers Wing Bar's 30th anniversary week. Guests who visit one of its 30+ restaurants in Texas can pair $1 wings with select $2 beverages on the annual holiday. The dine-in-only deal is available for all customers who order a minimum of 10 wings. Popeyes Popeyes is offering buy one, get one free deals on chicken wings until August 3 Unlike the other restaurant chains, Popeyes began its Wing Day celebration over a week early. Customers who visit participating locations can take advantage of a buy one, get one free deal for its six-piece Bone-In Wings. Rewards members also have the pleasure to nab a free six piece Spicy Bone-In Wings order with any wings purchase. Popeyes' chicken wing celebration will be running through August 3. Round Table Pizza Round Table Pizza's National Chicken Wing celebration will be a three-day event Round Table Pizza is holding a three-day chicken wing celebration by offering 12 boneless or classic wings for $9.99 starting on Tuesday. The deal is available for all customers at participating locations and can be redeemed using the code 'RTP117.' Chicken wing prices vary depending on location and quantity, but Grubhub estimated the usual cost of a 12-piece order to be $21.99. TGI Fridays Despite shutting dozens of locations, TGI Fridays is still celebrating National Chicken Wing Day with 50-cent wings. The restaurant chain currently offers boneless and bone-in wings with traditional buffalo, signature whiskey-glaze, or its all-new whiskey buffalo sauce. Once the one-day-only deal is up, customers can purchase a $15 TOTs, boneless wings and sliders with fries. The meal was created via partnership with TBS. The Green Turtle The Green Turtle is celebrating National Chicken Wing Day with a can't-miss BOGO deal that will only be around for 24 hours. Guests who visit a participating location can enjoy 10 free chicken wings with any 10-piece purchase. This is a dine-in-only deal that cannot be combined with other offers, including ones given to Rewards members. Whataburger Whataburger app users who purchase a 9-piece WhataWings can receive a second one for free Whataburger is celebrating chicken once again with a buy one, get one WhataWings digital-only deal on Tuesday. With this offer, customers can enjoy a free nine-piece WhataWings with any 9-piece purchase. Fans can claim the order online or through the Whataburger app. First-time app users will be able to score a free Whataburger with their chicken wings as well. Wingstop The chicken chain is celebrating its own Wingstop Wing Day by offering a digital deal for fans looking to score five free wings. Whether classic or boneless, customers can redeem the wings in any 12 flavors by entering 'FREEWINGS' on its website or the app. The restaurant chain is concluding its celebration on Wednesday with the launch of its limited-time flavor Hot Lemon. Zaxbys Zaxby's Rewards members have a buy 10 get 10 boneless wings offer at participating locations Zaxbys started its Wing Day celebration early by unlocking digital offers for its Rewards members. One of those deals is a buy 10 boneless wings get 10 boneless wings free at all participating locations. Customers can select any of Zaxby's nine signature sauces, including its new limited-time lemon pepper dry rub. 7-Eleven 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards members can get a free boneless eight-piece wings with any eight-piece purchase. Anyone who's not interested in that many wings can also snag a buy one, get one free deal on five bone-in wings. Rewards members can also get five free bone-in wings if they purchase two Red Bulls. Starbucks' turnaround efforts have fallen short as the company posted its sixth straight quarter of declining sales. The coffee company has been in turnaround mode under new CEO Brian Niccol for almost a year. However, Niccol's efforts to simplify menus, cut waiting times and make cafe's friendlier have yet to show up in the figures. Starbucks global sales declined two percent in the quarter ending June 29. This was an even greater drop than the 1.3 percent decline expected by analysts. The company's North America same-store sales fell by two percent, a smaller drop than was anticipated by Wall Street, according to StreetAccount. The results come just weeks after Starbucks launched its biggest hiring spree in history. Soaring prices and what critics call a 'soulless' in-store experience have only added to the customer exodus from the chain. Starbucks global sales declined two percent in the quarter ending June 29 The coffee company has been in turnaround mode under new CEO Brian Niccol Niccol said last month that the goal isn't just to speed up service, but to ease pressure on overworked employees and bring back the warmth and personal touch that once made Starbucks a beloved 'third place' between home and work. Five years ago, Starbucks stores averaged 23 employees. Cost-cutting has since trimmed that number down to 18 to 19 four to five fewer workers per location. Restoring pre-Covid staffing levels would mean hiring between 68,000 and 85,000 people across all US stores. Even focusing solely on the 11,000 company-owned locations, the increase would still be a massive 44,000 to 55,000 hires. As part of his turnaround plans Niccol has set about axing complicated drinks from Starbucks menus, asking staff to put messages on customer's coffee cups and scaling back promotions. The hiring plan will help address the major customer peeve of long wait times before getting their hands on a coffee. It will also likely be popular with front of house employees who have complained of chronic issues with understaffing, which compounds the backlogs. MJT & Associates Financial Advisory Group Inc. acquired a new position in shares of McDonalds Corporation (NYSE:MCD Free Report) in the first quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm acquired 1,950 shares of the fast-food giants stock, valued at approximately $609,000. McDonalds accounts for about 0.6% of MJT & Associates Financial Advisory Group Inc.s holdings, making the stock its 18th largest holding. A number of other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Brighton Jones LLC boosted its stake in McDonalds by 21.6% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 9,286 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $2,692,000 after purchasing an additional 1,649 shares in the last quarter. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC grew its position in McDonalds by 2.8% during the 4th quarter. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC now owns 1,942 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $563,000 after purchasing an additional 52 shares during the last quarter. Bank Pictet & Cie Europe AG grew its position in McDonalds by 15.3% during the 4th quarter. Bank Pictet & Cie Europe AG now owns 209,464 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $60,722,000 after purchasing an additional 27,774 shares during the last quarter. GHE LLC grew its position in McDonalds by 0.9% during the 4th quarter. GHE LLC now owns 14,677 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $4,255,000 after purchasing an additional 136 shares during the last quarter. Finally, New Age Alpha Advisors LLC grew its position in McDonalds by 6,396.9% during the 4th quarter. New Age Alpha Advisors LLC now owns 4,158 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $1,205,000 after purchasing an additional 4,094 shares during the last quarter. 70.29% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get McDonald's alerts: McDonalds Stock Performance Shares of McDonalds stock opened at $298.25 on Monday. McDonalds Corporation has a one year low of $250.23 and a one year high of $326.32. The company has a market cap of $213.26 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.32, a PEG ratio of 3.12 and a beta of 0.53. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $301.00 and its 200 day moving average price is $303.13. McDonalds Announces Dividend McDonalds ( NYSE:MCD Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 1st. The fast-food giant reported $2.67 EPS for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $2.67. McDonalds had a negative return on equity of 195.27% and a net margin of 31.75%. The firm had revenue of $5.96 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.17 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.70 earnings per share. The firms revenue was down 3.5% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts predict that McDonalds Corporation will post 12.25 EPS for the current fiscal year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 16th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 2nd will be given a dividend of $1.77 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, September 2nd. This represents a $7.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.37%. McDonaldss payout ratio is 62.49%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of brokerages have recently weighed in on MCD. Morgan Stanley increased their price objective on McDonalds from $324.00 to $326.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, July 14th. Citigroup increased their price objective on McDonalds from $364.00 to $365.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, July 9th. TD Securities reissued a hold rating and issued a $305.00 price objective on shares of McDonalds in a report on Thursday, June 5th. Melius started coverage on McDonalds in a report on Monday, July 14th. They set a sell rating and a $250.00 target price on the stock. Finally, BTIG Research reaffirmed a neutral rating on shares of McDonalds in a report on Tuesday, April 22nd. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, thirteen have issued a hold rating and fourteen have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, McDonalds presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $322.00. Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on McDonalds Insider Buying and Selling In other McDonalds news, insider Joseph M. Erlinger sold 939 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, July 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $299.49, for a total transaction of $281,221.11. Following the completion of the sale, the insider owned 9,283 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,780,165.67. This trade represents a 9.19% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CMO Edith Morgan Flatley sold 1,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, July 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $300.00, for a total value of $300,000.00. Following the sale, the chief marketing officer directly owned 8,858 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,657,400. This trade represents a 10.14% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 3,817 shares of company stock worth $1,147,992. 0.25% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. About McDonalds (Free Report) McDonalds Corp. engages in the operation and franchising of restaurants. It operates through the following segments: U.S., International Operated Markets, and International Developmental Licensed Markets and Corporate. The U.S. segment focuses its operations on the United States. The International Operated Markets segment consists of operations and the franchising of restaurants in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and the U.K. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MCD? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for McDonalds Corporation (NYSE:MCD Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for McDonald's Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for McDonald's and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Flotek Industries (NYSE:FTK Free Report) from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note issued to investors on Saturday morning. FTK has been the topic of a number of other reports. Alliance Global Partners began coverage on shares of Flotek Industries in a report on Thursday, June 12th. They issued a buy rating and a $19.00 target price on the stock. Northland Securities began coverage on shares of Flotek Industries in a research note on Tuesday, June 17th. They issued a market perform rating and a $16.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Northland Capmk raised shares of Flotek Industries to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, June 17th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, two have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Flotek Industries has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $14.33. Get Flotek Industries alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Flotek Industries Flotek Industries Price Performance Shares of Flotek Industries stock opened at $12.15 on Friday. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $14.32 and its 200-day simple moving average is $10.58. The stock has a market capitalization of $362.68 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.00 and a beta of 1.36. Flotek Industries has a 12 month low of $3.79 and a 12 month high of $16.87. Flotek Industries (NYSE:FTK Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, May 6th. The oil and gas company reported $0.17 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.06 by $0.11. The business had revenue of $55.36 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $44.50 million. Flotek Industries had a net margin of 7.09% and a return on equity of 12.76%. Analysts anticipate that Flotek Industries will post 0.29 earnings per share for the current year. Insider Transactions at Flotek Industries In other news, Director Matthew Wilks acquired 103,514 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, May 12th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $12.24 per share, with a total value of $1,267,011.36. Following the purchase, the director owned 144,350 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,766,844. This represents a 253.49% increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Over the last 90 days, insiders have acquired 149,766 shares of company stock valued at $1,841,758. Insiders own 3.02% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Flotek Industries A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in FTK. S Squared Technology LLC acquired a new position in shares of Flotek Industries during the 1st quarter worth $2,170,000. Royce & Associates LP acquired a new position in shares of Flotek Industries during the 1st quarter worth $1,167,000. EAM Investors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Flotek Industries during the 4th quarter worth $941,000. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership acquired a new position in shares of Flotek Industries during the 4th quarter worth $826,000. Finally, Ritholtz Wealth Management acquired a new position in shares of Flotek Industries during the 1st quarter worth $651,000. 10.90% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. About Flotek Industries (Get Free Report) Flotek Industries, Inc operates as a technology-driven green chemistry and data company that serves customers across industrial and commercial markets in the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and internationally. It operates through two segments: Chemistry Technologies (CT) and Data Analytics (DA). See Also Receive News & Ratings for Flotek Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Flotek Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shoker Investment Counsel Inc. lifted its position in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:IVV Free Report) by 9.3% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 10,558 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 901 shares during the period. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF accounts for approximately 2.0% of Shoker Investment Counsel Inc.s portfolio, making the stock its 9th largest position. Shoker Investment Counsel Inc.s holdings in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF were worth $5,934,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Richards Merrill & Peterson Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 4.6% during the first quarter. Richards Merrill & Peterson Inc. now owns 505 shares of the companys stock worth $284,000 after purchasing an additional 22 shares during the period. Horan Capital Advisors LLC. boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 3.9% during the first quarter. Horan Capital Advisors LLC. now owns 3,494 shares of the companys stock worth $1,964,000 after purchasing an additional 130 shares during the period. Inspire Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 11.2% during the first quarter. Inspire Advisors LLC now owns 3,838 shares of the companys stock worth $2,156,000 after purchasing an additional 388 shares during the period. Atlantic Family Wealth LLC boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 4.2% during the first quarter. Atlantic Family Wealth LLC now owns 50,412 shares of the companys stock worth $28,327,000 after purchasing an additional 2,050 shares during the period. Finally, one8zero8 LLC boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 2.8% during the first quarter. one8zero8 LLC now owns 1,142 shares of the companys stock worth $642,000 after purchasing an additional 31 shares during the period. 70.12% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get iShares Core S&P 500 ETF alerts: iShares Core S&P 500 ETF Trading Up 0.4% iShares Core S&P 500 ETF stock opened at $640.06 on Monday. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $610.58 and a 200-day moving average of $587.28. The firm has a market cap of $644.96 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.10 and a beta of 1.00. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF has a 1-year low of $484.00 and a 1-year high of $640.64. About iShares Core S&P 500 ETF iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Standard & Poors 500 Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of the large-capitalization sector of the United States equity market. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IVV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:IVV Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Core S&P 500 ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Core S&P 500 ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Nemes Rush Group LLC decreased its holdings in shares of Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA Free Report) by 8.5% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 600 shares of the credit services providers stock after selling 56 shares during the period. Nemes Rush Group LLCs holdings in Mastercard were worth $329,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in MA. Brighton Jones LLC lifted its holdings in Mastercard by 42.3% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 6,824 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $3,594,000 after purchasing an additional 2,028 shares in the last quarter. Bank Pictet & Cie Europe AG lifted its holdings in Mastercard by 11.8% in the 4th quarter. Bank Pictet & Cie Europe AG now owns 70,472 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $37,108,000 after purchasing an additional 7,452 shares in the last quarter. Mascagni Wealth Management Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Mastercard in the 4th quarter worth $73,000. Trustco Bank Corp N Y acquired a new stake in shares of Mastercard in the 4th quarter worth $211,000. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership increased its stake in shares of Mastercard by 15.8% in the 4th quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 1,940,081 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $1,021,588,000 after acquiring an additional 264,094 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 97.28% of the companys stock. Get Mastercard alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of analysts have issued reports on the company. The Goldman Sachs Group reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $633.00 target price on shares of Mastercard in a research note on Wednesday, April 2nd. Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Mastercard in a research note on Friday, June 6th. Seaport Res Ptn raised Mastercard from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Monday, July 14th. Macquarie cut their target price on Mastercard from $645.00 to $610.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, May 2nd. Finally, Citigroup raised their target price on Mastercard from $650.00 to $652.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Monday, May 5th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-five have given a buy rating and three have issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $612.90. Insider Activity In related news, insider Craig Vosburg sold 9,428 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $353.05, for a total transaction of $3,328,555.40. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 58,451 shares in the company, valued at approximately $20,636,125.55. This represents a 13.89% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, insider Raj Seshadri sold 1,100 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $546.77, for a total transaction of $601,447.00. Following the sale, the insider owned 12,921 shares in the company, valued at $7,064,815.17. The trade was a 7.85% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 38,753 shares of company stock valued at $20,351,084 over the last three months. 0.09% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Mastercard Stock Up 0.8% MA stock opened at $568.18 on Monday. The companys 50 day moving average price is $565.61 and its 200 day moving average price is $550.38. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.81, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a current ratio of 1.11. Mastercard Incorporated has a fifty-two week low of $432.11 and a fifty-two week high of $594.71. The firm has a market capitalization of $518.02 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 39.84, a PEG ratio of 2.46 and a beta of 1.02. Mastercard (NYSE:MA Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The credit services provider reported $3.73 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.57 by $0.16. Mastercard had a net margin of 45.21% and a return on equity of 196.87%. The firm had revenue of $7.25 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.12 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $3.31 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 14.2% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Mastercard Incorporated will post 15.91 EPS for the current fiscal year. Mastercard Dividend Announcement The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 8th. Investors of record on Wednesday, July 9th will be paid a dividend of $0.76 per share. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, July 9th. This represents a $3.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.54%. Mastercards payout ratio is 21.32%. Mastercard Profile (Free Report) Mastercard Incorporated, a technology company, provides transaction processing and other payment-related products and services in the United States and internationally. The company offers integrated products and value-added services for account holders, merchants, financial institutions, digital partners, businesses, governments, and other organizations, such as programs that enable issuers to provide consumers with credits to defer payments; payment products and solutions that allow its customers to access funds in deposit and other accounts; prepaid programs services; and commercial credit, debit, and prepaid payment products and solutions. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Mastercard Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mastercard and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Norden Group LLC trimmed its holdings in shares of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH Free Report) by 14.0% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 6,024 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock after selling 979 shares during the quarter. Norden Group LLCs holdings in UnitedHealth Group were worth $3,156,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. A number of other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Brio Consultants LLC boosted its stake in shares of UnitedHealth Group by 75.9% in the first quarter. Brio Consultants LLC now owns 751 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $393,000 after buying an additional 324 shares during the period. University of Texas Texas AM Investment Management Co. raised its holdings in UnitedHealth Group by 757.0% in the 1st quarter. University of Texas Texas AM Investment Management Co. now owns 857 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $449,000 after acquiring an additional 757 shares in the last quarter. Richards Merrill & Peterson Inc. grew its holdings in shares of UnitedHealth Group by 1.7% during the 1st quarter. Richards Merrill & Peterson Inc. now owns 1,979 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $1,037,000 after purchasing an additional 34 shares in the last quarter. Metis Global Partners LLC raised its stake in UnitedHealth Group by 10.4% in the first quarter. Metis Global Partners LLC now owns 58,738 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $30,764,000 after purchasing an additional 5,535 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nemes Rush Group LLC grew its stake in UnitedHealth Group by 1.7% during the first quarter. Nemes Rush Group LLC now owns 15,962 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $8,360,000 after buying an additional 268 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 87.86% of the companys stock. Get UnitedHealth Group alerts: UnitedHealth Group Price Performance Shares of UNH opened at $280.69 on Monday. The business has a 50-day moving average of $301.58 and a 200-day moving average of $424.22. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated has a 1 year low of $248.88 and a 1 year high of $630.73. The company has a market capitalization of $254.62 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.75, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.39 and a beta of 0.45. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 0.85 and a quick ratio of 0.85. UnitedHealth Group Increases Dividend Analysts Set New Price Targets The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, June 24th. Stockholders of record on Monday, June 16th were given a dividend of $2.21 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, June 16th. This is a boost from UnitedHealth Groups previous quarterly dividend of $2.10. This represents a $8.84 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.15%. UnitedHealth Groups dividend payout ratio is 37.02%. A number of analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft cut their price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group from $521.00 to $362.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, May 14th. Wall Street Zen lowered UnitedHealth Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, May 24th. Robert W. Baird lowered UnitedHealth Group from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $312.00 price objective on the stock. in a research note on Wednesday, June 11th. Baird R W downgraded UnitedHealth Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, June 11th. Finally, Wolfe Research decreased their price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group from $501.00 to $390.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, May 20th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have assigned a hold rating and fifteen have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, UnitedHealth Group presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $392.29. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on UNH Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, CEO Patrick Hugh Conway sold 589 shares of UnitedHealth Group stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, June 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $305.00, for a total value of $179,645.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 10,398 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,171,390. This trade represents a 5.36% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, CFO John F. Rex bought 17,175 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, May 16th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $291.12 per share, for a total transaction of $4,999,986.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 203,796 shares in the company, valued at $59,329,091.52. This represents a 9.20% increase in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders have acquired 109,408 shares of company stock valued at $31,607,768 over the last quarter. Company insiders own 0.28% of the companys stock. UnitedHealth Group Company Profile (Free Report) UnitedHealth Group Incorporated operates as a diversified health care company in the United States. The company operates through four segments: UnitedHealthcare, Optum Health, Optum Insight, and Optum Rx. The UnitedHealthcare segment offers consumer-oriented health benefit plans and services for national employers, public sector employers, mid-sized employers, small businesses, and individuals; health care coverage, and health and well-being services to individuals age 50 and older addressing their needs; Medicaid plans, children's health insurance and health care programs; and health and dental benefits, and hospital and clinical services, as well as health care benefits products and services to state programs caring for the economically disadvantaged, medically underserved, and those without the benefit of employer-funded health care coverage. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding UNH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for UnitedHealth Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for UnitedHealth Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. PTM Wealth Management LLC purchased a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report) during the first quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund purchased 474 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $391,000. Eli Lilly and Company comprises 0.4% of PTM Wealth Management LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 26th largest position. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Eli Lilly and Company by 16.3% during the 1st quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 43,194 shares of the companys stock worth $35,674,000 after acquiring an additional 6,054 shares in the last quarter. KFA Private Wealth Group LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 7.0% in the 1st quarter. KFA Private Wealth Group LLC now owns 382 shares of the companys stock valued at $316,000 after buying an additional 25 shares in the last quarter. Schubert & Co acquired a new position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company in the 1st quarter valued at $211,000. Avalon Capital Management boosted its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 6.7% in the 1st quarter. Avalon Capital Management now owns 5,559 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,591,000 after buying an additional 347 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Solidarity Wealth LLC acquired a new position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company in the 1st quarter valued at $2,000,000. 82.53% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Eli Lilly and Company alerts: Eli Lilly and Company Trading Up 0.8% NYSE LLY opened at $811.73 on Monday. Eli Lilly and Company has a one year low of $677.09 and a one year high of $972.53. The companys 50 day moving average price is $771.95 and its 200 day moving average price is $800.61. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.18, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a current ratio of 1.37. The firm has a market capitalization of $769.31 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 66.05, a PEG ratio of 1.18 and a beta of 0.40. Eli Lilly and Company Announces Dividend Eli Lilly and Company ( NYSE:LLY Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The company reported $3.34 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $4.64 by ($1.30). Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 22.67% and a return on equity of 85.51%. The business had revenue of $12.73 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $12.77 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $2.58 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 45.2% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 EPS for the current year. The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, September 10th. Investors of record on Friday, August 15th will be paid a dividend of $1.50 per share. This represents a $6.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.74%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 15th. Eli Lilly and Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 48.82%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several research analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Erste Group Bank cut shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, June 5th. Wells Fargo & Company restated an overweight rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Thursday, May 1st. UBS Group cut their price target on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $1,100.00 to $1,050.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Friday, May 2nd. Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $1,135.00 price target (up previously from $1,133.00) on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a report on Thursday, July 10th. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald assumed coverage on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a report on Tuesday, April 22nd. They issued an overweight rating and a $975.00 price target for the company. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating and seventeen have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Eli Lilly and Company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $1,012.56. Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Eli Lilly and Company Eli Lilly and Company Profile (Free Report) Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LLY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Eli Lilly and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eli Lilly and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of MSCI Inc (NYSE:MSCI Get Free Report) have been given a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy by the thirteen analysts that are covering the stock, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating on the company. The average 12-month target price among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $654.73. Several brokerages have issued reports on MSCI. Raymond James Financial raised shares of MSCI from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $650.00 price objective on the stock in a research note on Friday. UBS Group boosted their price target on shares of MSCI from $655.00 to $700.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 8th. Bank of America initiated coverage on shares of MSCI in a research note on Thursday, April 10th. They issued a neutral rating and a $585.00 price objective for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their target price on shares of MSCI from $650.00 to $680.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, July 21st. Finally, Oppenheimer reaffirmed a market perform rating on shares of MSCI in a report on Wednesday, April 23rd. Get MSCI alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Report on MSCI MSCI Price Performance Shares of MSCI stock opened at $552.98 on Thursday. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $563.98 and its 200-day simple moving average is $565.73. MSCI has a 12 month low of $486.73 and a 12 month high of $642.45. The stock has a market capitalization of $42.78 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 36.62, a PEG ratio of 2.70 and a beta of 1.32. MSCI (NYSE:MSCI Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, July 22nd. The technology company reported $4.17 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.12 by $0.05. MSCI had a negative return on equity of 143.13% and a net margin of 39.46%. The business had revenue of $772.68 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $763.06 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $3.64 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 9.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts anticipate that MSCI will post 16.86 earnings per share for the current year. MSCI Dividend Announcement The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 15th will be paid a $1.80 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 15th. This represents a $7.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.30%. MSCIs payout ratio is currently 47.68%. Insider Buying and Selling In other news, CEO Henry A. Fernandez acquired 9,916 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, July 24th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $544.70 per share, for a total transaction of $5,401,245.20. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 1,279,867 shares in the company, valued at $697,143,554.90. This trade represents a 0.78% increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, COO Cd Baer Pettit sold 5,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $552.59, for a total transaction of $2,762,950.00. Following the sale, the chief operating officer owned 289,787 shares in the company, valued at $160,133,398.33. This trade represents a 1.70% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have purchased a total of 12,400 shares of company stock valued at $6,731,599 in the last 90 days. Insiders own 3.31% of the companys stock. Institutional Investors Weigh In On MSCI A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of MSCI. Sunbelt Securities Inc. lifted its stake in shares of MSCI by 15.4% in the first quarter. Sunbelt Securities Inc. now owns 142 shares of the technology companys stock worth $80,000 after buying an additional 19 shares during the last quarter. Optivise Advisory Services LLC raised its holdings in MSCI by 3.8% in the 1st quarter. Optivise Advisory Services LLC now owns 540 shares of the technology companys stock worth $306,000 after acquiring an additional 20 shares during the period. Quotient Wealth Partners LLC lifted its position in MSCI by 5.9% during the 1st quarter. Quotient Wealth Partners LLC now owns 361 shares of the technology companys stock worth $204,000 after acquiring an additional 20 shares during the last quarter. Gries Financial LLC lifted its position in MSCI by 1.3% during the 2nd quarter. Gries Financial LLC now owns 1,505 shares of the technology companys stock worth $868,000 after acquiring an additional 20 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Copperwynd Financial LLC boosted its holdings in MSCI by 1.1% during the second quarter. Copperwynd Financial LLC now owns 1,793 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $1,034,000 after acquiring an additional 20 shares during the period. 89.97% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. MSCI Company Profile (Get Free Report MSCI Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides critical decision support tools and solutions for the investment community to manage investment processes worldwide. The Index segment provides indexes for use in various areas of the investment process, including indexed financial product, such as ETFs, mutual funds, annuities, futures, options, structured products, and over-the-counter derivatives; performance benchmarking; portfolio construction and rebalancing; and asset allocation, as well as licenses GICS and GICS Direct. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for MSCI Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for MSCI and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cozad Asset Management Inc. reduced its position in Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG Free Report) by 0.8% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 234,313 shares of the restaurant operators stock after selling 1,877 shares during the period. Chipotle Mexican Grill comprises about 1.2% of Cozad Asset Management Inc.s portfolio, making the stock its 18th biggest holding. Cozad Asset Management Inc.s holdings in Chipotle Mexican Grill were worth $11,765,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Cloud Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill in the 1st quarter valued at $25,000. HighMark Wealth Management LLC raised its position in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 173.4% during the first quarter. HighMark Wealth Management LLC now owns 585 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $29,000 after acquiring an additional 371 shares during the period. North Capital Inc. acquired a new position in Chipotle Mexican Grill during the first quarter worth $30,000. ORG Wealth Partners LLC acquired a new position in Chipotle Mexican Grill during the first quarter worth $31,000. Finally, Mechanics Financial Corp acquired a new position in Chipotle Mexican Grill during the first quarter worth $38,000. 91.31% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Chipotle Mexican Grill alerts: Chipotle Mexican Grill Price Performance Shares of CMG stock opened at $44.92 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of $60.52 billion, a PE ratio of 40.11, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 1.08. The company has a 50-day moving average of $52.60 and a two-hundred day moving average of $52.46. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. has a 1-year low of $44.46 and a 1-year high of $66.74. Analyst Ratings Changes Chipotle Mexican Grill ( NYSE:CMG Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, July 23rd. The restaurant operator reported $0.33 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.32 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $3.06 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.11 billion. Chipotle Mexican Grill had a net margin of 13.32% and a return on equity of 43.50%. Chipotle Mexican Grills revenue was up 3.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $0.34 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. will post 1.29 EPS for the current fiscal year. A number of equities analysts have weighed in on the stock. Robert W. Baird reduced their price objective on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $62.00 to $59.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, July 24th. Royal Bank Of Canada reduced their price objective on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $65.00 to $60.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 24th. Guggenheim reduced their price objective on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $47.00 to $46.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Friday. Raymond James Financial restated an outperform rating and set a $60.00 price objective (down from $62.00) on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill in a research report on Thursday, July 24th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets upgraded shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and upped their price objective for the stock from $56.00 to $65.00 in a research report on Friday, July 18th. Nine analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nineteen have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $60.71. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on CMG Insiders Place Their Bets In other Chipotle Mexican Grill news, insider Roger E. Theodoredis sold 113,875 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $49.70, for a total transaction of $5,659,587.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 109,815 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,457,805.50. This trade represents a 50.91% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. 0.81% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. About Chipotle Mexican Grill (Free Report) Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurants. It sells food and beverages through offering burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, tacos, and salads. The company also provides delivery and related services its app and website. It has operations in the United States, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Chipotle Mexican Grill Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chipotle Mexican Grill and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. First Foundation Advisors raised its position in shares of iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:DGRO Free Report) by 3.0% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 55,567 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 1,613 shares during the quarter. First Foundation Advisors holdings in iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF were worth $3,433,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Bank of America Corp DE grew its position in iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF by 3.9% during the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 18,265,578 shares of the companys stock worth $1,120,411,000 after purchasing an additional 679,471 shares during the last quarter. LPL Financial LLC lifted its stake in shares of iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF by 6.4% during the first quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 15,697,592 shares of the companys stock worth $969,797,000 after buying an additional 941,311 shares during the period. Capital Investment Advisors LLC grew its holdings in shares of iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF by 2.8% during the first quarter. Capital Investment Advisors LLC now owns 7,703,376 shares of the companys stock valued at $475,915,000 after buying an additional 207,810 shares during the last quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN increased its position in shares of iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF by 17.7% in the 4th quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 6,198,943 shares of the companys stock valued at $380,243,000 after acquiring an additional 932,713 shares during the period. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada raised its stake in iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF by 2.7% in the 4th quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 5,937,504 shares of the companys stock worth $364,207,000 after acquiring an additional 157,104 shares during the last quarter. Get iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF alerts: iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF Stock Performance Shares of DGRO opened at $65.58 on Tuesday. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $63.52 and a two-hundred day moving average of $62.21. The stock has a market cap of $32.75 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.66 and a beta of 0.89. iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF has a one year low of $54.09 and a one year high of $65.84. iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF Profile The iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF (DGRO) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Morningstar US Dividend Growth index. The fund tracks an index of US stocks that are selected by dividends, dividend growth and payout ratio, then weighted by dividend dollars. DGRO was launched on Jun 10, 2014 and is managed by BlackRock. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DGRO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:DGRO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hurley Capital LLC decreased its holdings in shares of RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:RNR Free Report) by 91.9% during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 523 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 5,954 shares during the period. Hurley Capital LLCs holdings in RenaissanceRe were worth $126,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. Mackenzie Financial Corp grew its stake in RenaissanceRe by 366.1% in the 1st quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 79,053 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $18,973,000 after buying an additional 62,091 shares during the last quarter. LPL Financial LLC grew its stake in RenaissanceRe by 12.8% in the 1st quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 8,035 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $1,928,000 after buying an additional 910 shares during the last quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank grew its stake in RenaissanceRe by 0.7% in the 1st quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 13,518 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $3,244,000 after buying an additional 100 shares during the last quarter. Zweig DiMenna Associates LLC acquired a new position in RenaissanceRe in the 1st quarter valued at $11,136,000. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers grew its stake in RenaissanceRe by 4.0% in the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 4,420 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $1,061,000 after buying an additional 171 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 99.97% of the companys stock. Get RenaissanceRe alerts: Insider Transactions at RenaissanceRe In related news, CAO James Christopher Fraser sold 332 shares of RenaissanceRe stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $249.54, for a total transaction of $82,847.28. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 27,154 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,776,009.16. This trade represents a 1.21% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. 2.00% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research firms have issued reports on RNR. Barclays raised their price target on shares of RenaissanceRe from $256.00 to $273.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, July 24th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded shares of RenaissanceRe from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and set a $284.00 price target on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, April 8th. Jefferies Financial Group decreased their price target on shares of RenaissanceRe from $266.00 to $265.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, April 11th. JMP Securities restated a market perform rating on shares of RenaissanceRe in a research report on Thursday, April 24th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their price target on shares of RenaissanceRe from $268.00 to $269.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research report on Monday. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $287.50. Read Our Latest Stock Report on RNR RenaissanceRe Price Performance Shares of RenaissanceRe stock opened at $245.29 on Tuesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a quick ratio of 1.36 and a current ratio of 1.36. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $242.30 and its 200-day simple moving average is $241.30. RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd. has a twelve month low of $219.00 and a twelve month high of $300.00. The firm has a market cap of $11.93 billion, a P/E ratio of 6.27, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.64 and a beta of 0.30. RenaissanceRe (NYSE:RNR Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 23rd. The insurance provider reported $12.29 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $10.28 by $2.01. RenaissanceRe had a net margin of 15.44% and a return on equity of 15.00%. The firm had revenue of $2.77 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.96 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $12.41 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was down 2.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts expect that RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd. will post 26.04 EPS for the current fiscal year. RenaissanceRe Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 30th. Investors of record on Friday, June 13th were issued a dividend of $0.40 per share. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.65%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 13th. RenaissanceRes dividend payout ratio is currently 4.09%. RenaissanceRe Profile (Free Report) RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides reinsurance and insurance products in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Property, and Casualty and Specialty segments. The Property segment writes property catastrophe excess of loss reinsurance and excess of loss reinsurance to insure insurance and reinsurance companies against natural and man-made catastrophes, including hurricanes, earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis, as well as winter storms, freezes, floods, fires, windstorms, tornadoes, explosions, and acts of terrorism; and other property class of products, such as proportional reinsurance, property per risk, property reinsurance, binding facilities, and regional U.S. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding RNR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:RNR Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for RenaissanceRe Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for RenaissanceRe and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Kirtland Hills Capital Management LLC increased its position in shares of Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT Free Report) by 8.3% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 4,633 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after acquiring an additional 357 shares during the quarter. Kirtland Hills Capital Management LLCs holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $607,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Cim LLC boosted its position in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 0.4% in the 4th quarter. Cim LLC now owns 16,967 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $1,919,000 after purchasing an additional 73 shares during the last quarter. Capital Square LLC boosted its position in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 2.7% in the 4th quarter. Capital Square LLC now owns 2,941 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $368,000 after purchasing an additional 77 shares during the last quarter. Consilium Wealth Advisory LLC boosted its position in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 2.1% in the 1st quarter. Consilium Wealth Advisory LLC now owns 3,822 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $507,000 after purchasing an additional 78 shares during the last quarter. Mayflower Financial Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 0.5% in the 1st quarter. Mayflower Financial Advisors LLC now owns 17,327 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $2,298,000 after purchasing an additional 78 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Opes Wealth Management LLC lifted its holdings in Abbott Laboratories by 2.9% during the first quarter. Opes Wealth Management LLC now owns 2,854 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $379,000 after acquiring an additional 80 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.18% of the companys stock. Get Abbott Laboratories alerts: Abbott Laboratories Stock Down 0.2% ABT stock opened at $126.28 on Tuesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.27, a current ratio of 1.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.26. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $132.20 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $130.19. The company has a market cap of $219.71 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.82, a P/E/G ratio of 2.40 and a beta of 0.73. Abbott Laboratories has a twelve month low of $99.92 and a twelve month high of $141.23. Abbott Laboratories Dividend Announcement Abbott Laboratories ( NYSE:ABT Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 17th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.26 EPS for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $1.26. The company had revenue of $11.14 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.01 billion. Abbott Laboratories had a return on equity of 18.83% and a net margin of 32.43%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 7.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $1.14 EPS. Analysts anticipate that Abbott Laboratories will post 5.14 EPS for the current fiscal year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, July 15th will be issued a $0.59 dividend. This represents a $2.36 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.87%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, July 15th. Abbott Laboratoriess payout ratio is presently 29.57%. Analyst Ratings Changes ABT has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Mizuho lifted their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $130.00 to $140.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, July 16th. Leerink Partnrs upgraded Abbott Laboratories to a hold rating in a report on Monday, June 16th. Barclays increased their price target on Abbott Laboratories from $158.00 to $159.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, April 17th. BTIG Research lowered their price target on Abbott Laboratories from $148.00 to $145.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Friday, July 18th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada increased their price target on Abbott Laboratories from $145.00 to $147.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, July 15th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, seventeen have given a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $144.47. Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Abbott Laboratories Insider Activity at Abbott Laboratories In other Abbott Laboratories news, Director Sally E. Blount sold 2,600 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, April 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $129.66, for a total value of $337,116.00. Following the sale, the director owned 34,058 shares in the company, valued at $4,415,960.28. This represents a 7.09% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Insiders own 0.46% of the companys stock. Abbott Laboratories Company Profile (Free Report) Abbott Laboratories, together with its subsidiaries, discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells health care products worldwide. It operates in four segments: Established Pharmaceutical Products, Diagnostic Products, Nutritional Products, and Medical Devices. The company provides generic pharmaceuticals for the treatment of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, irritable bowel syndrome or biliary spasm, intrahepatic cholestasis or depressive symptoms, gynecological disorder, hormone replacement therapy, dyslipidemia, hypertension, hypothyroidism, Menieres disease and vestibular vertigo, pain, fever, inflammation, and migraine, as well as provides anti-infective clarithromycin, influenza vaccine, and products to regulate physiological rhythm of the colon. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ABT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Abbott Laboratories Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Abbott Laboratories and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Lutz Financial Services LLC lowered its position in Vanguard Real Estate ETF (NYSEARCA:VNQ Free Report) by 15.1% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 17,731 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 3,160 shares during the period. Lutz Financial Services LLCs holdings in Vanguard Real Estate ETF were worth $1,605,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of VNQ. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec bought a new position in Vanguard Real Estate ETF in the 4th quarter worth $299,211,000. Bank of New York Mellon Corp boosted its holdings in Vanguard Real Estate ETF by 21.7% in the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 2,763,958 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $250,249,000 after buying an additional 493,609 shares during the period. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Vanguard Real Estate ETF by 235.0% in the 1st quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 409,447 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $37,071,000 after buying an additional 287,218 shares during the period. Cohen & Steers Inc. boosted its holdings in Vanguard Real Estate ETF by 1,630.3% in the 4th quarter. Cohen & Steers Inc. now owns 298,535 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $26,566,000 after buying an additional 281,282 shares during the period. Finally, D. E. Shaw & Co. Inc. boosted its holdings in Vanguard Real Estate ETF by 42.5% in the 4th quarter. D. E. Shaw & Co. Inc. now owns 901,700 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $80,323,000 after buying an additional 268,800 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 60.03% of the companys stock. Get Vanguard Real Estate ETF alerts: Vanguard Real Estate ETF Stock Down 1.6% Shares of VNQ stock opened at $90.26 on Tuesday. The stock has a market cap of $34.09 billion, a P/E ratio of 35.58 and a beta of 0.91. Vanguard Real Estate ETF has a 52 week low of $76.92 and a 52 week high of $99.58. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $89.66 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $89.51. Vanguard Real Estate ETF Profile Vanguard REIT ETF (the Fund) is an open-end investment company. The Fund invests in stocks issued by real estate investment trusts (REITs), companies that purchase office buildings, hotels, and other real property. It tracks the return of the MSCI US RIT Index, a gauge of real estate stocks. The Vanguard Group, Inc provides investment advisory services to the Fund. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Vanguard Real Estate ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vanguard Real Estate ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mackenzie Financial Corp increased its holdings in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO Free Report) by 10.4% during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 2,213,427 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 207,934 shares during the period. Mackenzie Financial Corp owned about 0.13% of Altria Group worth $132,850,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Redwood Park Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Altria Group in the 4th quarter valued at about $26,000. Inlight Wealth Management LLC purchased a new stake in Altria Group in the 1st quarter valued at about $31,000. Sierra Ocean LLC increased its stake in Altria Group by 226.3% in the 1st quarter. Sierra Ocean LLC now owns 509 shares of the companys stock valued at $31,000 after buying an additional 353 shares during the last quarter. Pinney & Scofield Inc. purchased a new stake in Altria Group in the 4th quarter valued at about $33,000. Finally, Bellwether Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Altria Group in the 4th quarter valued at about $38,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 57.41% of the companys stock. Get Altria Group alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities research analysts have commented on the stock. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft set a $60.00 price objective on shares of Altria Group in a research note on Tuesday, April 1st. Stifel Nicolaus increased their target price on shares of Altria Group from $60.00 to $63.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Altria Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, May 1st. Jefferies Financial Group started coverage on shares of Altria Group in a research report on Wednesday, July 9th. They set an underperform rating and a $50.00 target price for the company. Finally, Needham & Company LLC raised shares of Altria Group to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, May 22nd. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $56.75. Altria Group Trading Down 1.9% MO opened at $58.73 on Tuesday. The company has a 50 day moving average of $59.26 and a 200 day moving average of $57.19. The company has a market cap of $98.93 billion, a PE ratio of 9.84, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.45 and a beta of 0.59. Altria Group, Inc. has a 12 month low of $47.57 and a 12 month high of $61.26. Altria Group (NYSE:MO Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 29th. The company reported $1.23 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.19 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $4.52 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.64 billion. Altria Group had a net margin of 43.09% and a negative return on equity of 295.44%. Altria Groups revenue for the quarter was down 4.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm earned $1.15 EPS. Research analysts forecast that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Altria Group Announces Dividend The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, July 10th. Investors of record on Monday, June 16th were issued a $1.02 dividend. This represents a $4.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.95%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, June 16th. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 68.34%. Altria Group Profile (Free Report) Altria Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells smokeable and oral tobacco products in the United States. The company offers cigarettes primarily under the Marlboro brand; large cigars and pipe tobacco under the Black & Mild brand; moist smokeless tobacco and snus products under the Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal, and Husky brands; oral nicotine pouches under the on! brand; and e-vapor products under the NJOY ACE brand. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Altria Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Altria Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Get Free Report) has been assigned an average recommendation of Hold from the twenty-two brokerages that are presently covering the company, MarketBeat Ratings reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, thirteen have assigned a hold rating, five have issued a buy rating and three have assigned a strong buy rating to the company. The average 1 year price target among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $28.55. PFE has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Berenberg Bank cut their price target on Pfizer from $28.00 to $25.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, May 29th. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price target on Pfizer from $32.00 to $33.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 21st. Citigroup lifted their price target on Pfizer from $23.00 to $25.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. UBS Group lifted their price target on Pfizer from $24.00 to $25.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. Finally, Bank of America boosted their target price on Pfizer from $26.00 to $27.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, April 30th. Get Pfizer alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Report on PFE Pfizer Price Performance Shares of NYSE PFE opened at $24.33 on Tuesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64, a quick ratio of 0.96 and a current ratio of 1.26. Pfizer has a fifty-two week low of $20.92 and a fifty-two week high of $31.54. The firm has a market capitalization of $138.33 billion, a PE ratio of 17.63, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.90 and a beta of 0.58. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $24.32 and its 200-day simple moving average is $24.63. Pfizer (NYSE:PFE Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 29th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.92 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.67 by $0.25. The company had revenue of $13.72 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.43 billion. Pfizer had a return on equity of 20.33% and a net margin of 12.62%. The firms revenue was down 7.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.82 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Pfizer will post 2.95 EPS for the current fiscal year. Pfizer Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Investors of record on Friday, July 25th will be paid a $0.43 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, July 25th. This represents a $1.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 7.07%. Pfizers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 124.64%. Institutional Trading of Pfizer A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Omnia Family Wealth LLC boosted its stake in shares of Pfizer by 22.2% in the second quarter. Omnia Family Wealth LLC now owns 10,119 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $245,000 after buying an additional 1,839 shares in the last quarter. Turtle Creek Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Pfizer during the second quarter worth $399,000. Callahan Advisors LLC boosted its position in Pfizer by 16.5% during the second quarter. Callahan Advisors LLC now owns 670,343 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $16,249,000 after purchasing an additional 94,846 shares in the last quarter. Davidson Investment Advisors boosted its position in Pfizer by 45.2% during the second quarter. Davidson Investment Advisors now owns 596,252 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $14,453,000 after purchasing an additional 185,733 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Uptick Partners LLC boosted its position in Pfizer by 2.3% during the second quarter. Uptick Partners LLC now owns 52,424 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,271,000 after purchasing an additional 1,180 shares in the last quarter. 68.36% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Pfizer Company Profile (Get Free Report Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Premier Fund Managers Ltd lifted its holdings in Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE:UNP Free Report) by 1.3% in the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 232,690 shares of the railroad operators stock after purchasing an additional 2,990 shares during the period. Union Pacific makes up 2.0% of Premier Fund Managers Ltds holdings, making the stock its 18th biggest holding. Premier Fund Managers Ltds holdings in Union Pacific were worth $54,014,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. GAMMA Investing LLC raised its holdings in Union Pacific by 27,502.8% in the first quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 2,491,151 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $588,510,000 after acquiring an additional 2,482,126 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its position in shares of Union Pacific by 12.6% in the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 14,430,581 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $3,282,305,000 after purchasing an additional 1,616,895 shares during the last quarter. Capital Research Global Investors raised its holdings in shares of Union Pacific by 14.3% in the 4th quarter. Capital Research Global Investors now owns 10,395,364 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $2,370,559,000 after purchasing an additional 1,298,178 shares in the last quarter. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC raised its holdings in shares of Union Pacific by 35.2% in the 4th quarter. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC now owns 4,968,658 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $1,133,053,000 after purchasing an additional 1,294,643 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Castlekeep Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Union Pacific during the 4th quarter worth $273,361,000. 80.38% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Union Pacific alerts: Union Pacific Stock Up 2.0% Union Pacific stock opened at $229.29 on Tuesday. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $227.17 and a two-hundred day moving average of $231.05. Union Pacific Corporation has a twelve month low of $204.66 and a twelve month high of $258.07. The stock has a market capitalization of $137.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.92, a PEG ratio of 2.24 and a beta of 1.05. The company has a current ratio of 0.65, a quick ratio of 0.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.86. Union Pacific Increases Dividend Union Pacific ( NYSE:UNP Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 24th. The railroad operator reported $3.03 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.84 by $0.19. Union Pacific had a return on equity of 41.73% and a net margin of 28.43%. The business had revenue of $6.15 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.09 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $2.74 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 2.4% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts expect that Union Pacific Corporation will post 11.99 earnings per share for the current year. The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Stockholders of record on Friday, August 29th will be paid a $1.38 dividend. This represents a $5.52 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.41%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 29th. This is a boost from Union Pacifics previous quarterly dividend of $1.34. Union Pacifics dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 46.57%. Analyst Ratings Changes UNP has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Sanford C. Bernstein increased their target price on Union Pacific from $271.00 to $286.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Monday, July 21st. Argus raised Union Pacific to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Friday, May 16th. Baird R W raised Union Pacific to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 1st. Stephens lowered their price target on Union Pacific from $275.00 to $255.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Monday, April 28th. Finally, Robert W. Baird assumed coverage on shares of Union Pacific in a research note on Tuesday, July 1st. They issued a neutral rating and a $231.00 price target on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have given a hold rating, sixteen have given a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $259.46. Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Union Pacific Union Pacific Profile (Free Report) Union Pacific Corporation, through its subsidiary, Union Pacific Railroad Company, operates in the railroad business in the United States. The company offers transportation services for grain and grain products, fertilizers, food and refrigerated products, and coal and renewables to grain processors, animal feeders, ethanol producers, renewable biofuel producers, and other agricultural users; and construction products, industrial chemicals, plastics, forest products, specialized products, metals and ores, petroleum, liquid petroleum gases, soda ash, and sand, as well as finished automobiles, automotive parts, and merchandise in intermodal containers. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding UNP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE:UNP Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Union Pacific Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Union Pacific and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Premier Fund Managers Ltd reduced its position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY Free Report) by 14.5% in the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 159,200 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 27,100 shares during the period. Premier Fund Managers Ltds holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $9,554,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of BMY. Pinney & Scofield Inc. purchased a new stake in Bristol Myers Squibb during the 4th quarter worth approximately $25,000. Park Square Financial Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb during the 4th quarter worth approximately $26,000. Transce3nd LLC acquired a new position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb during the 4th quarter worth approximately $28,000. Global Wealth Strategies & Associates boosted its holdings in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 137.5% during the 1st quarter. Global Wealth Strategies & Associates now owns 475 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $29,000 after purchasing an additional 275 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Harel Insurance Investments & Financial Services Ltd. acquired a new position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb during the 1st quarter worth approximately $31,000. 76.41% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Bristol Myers Squibb alerts: Bristol Myers Squibb Stock Down 1.9% Bristol Myers Squibb stock opened at $47.52 on Tuesday. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a twelve month low of $44.00 and a twelve month high of $63.33. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $47.67 and its 200-day simple moving average is $52.53. The company has a current ratio of 1.28, a quick ratio of 1.17 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.65. The firm has a market capitalization of $96.71 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.80, a P/E/G ratio of 2.53 and a beta of 0.36. Bristol Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 1st. Stockholders of record on Thursday, July 3rd will be given a dividend of $0.62 per share. This represents a $2.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.22%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 3rd. Bristol Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio is currently 92.88%. Several research analysts have recently weighed in on BMY shares. Jefferies Financial Group lowered their target price on Bristol Myers Squibb from $70.00 to $68.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 23rd. Wall Street Zen cut Bristol Myers Squibb from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, June 6th. William Blair restated a market perform rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Friday, April 25th. Cantor Fitzgerald restated a neutral rating and set a $55.00 target price on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Tuesday, April 22nd. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group restated a neutral rating and set a $55.00 target price (down from $67.00) on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Tuesday, April 8th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have issued a hold rating, six have assigned a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Bristol Myers Squibb currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $58.53. Read Our Latest Analysis on BMY Bristol Myers Squibb Company Profile (Free Report) Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for various anti-cancer indications, including bladder, blood, CRC, head and neck, RCC, HCC, lung, melanoma, MPM, stomach and esophageal cancer; Pomalyst/Imnovid for multiple myeloma; Orencia for active rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Premier Fund Managers Ltd lessened its stake in Zoetis Inc. (NYSE:ZTS Free Report) by 0.9% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 54,958 shares of the companys stock after selling 500 shares during the period. Premier Fund Managers Ltds holdings in Zoetis were worth $8,962,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. grew its stake in Zoetis by 88.9% in the first quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 27,778 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,574,000 after purchasing an additional 13,073 shares during the last quarter. Renaissance Investment Group LLC grew its stake in Zoetis by 1.7% in the first quarter. Renaissance Investment Group LLC now owns 53,168 shares of the companys stock valued at $8,754,000 after purchasing an additional 886 shares during the last quarter. N.E.W. Advisory Services LLC purchased a new position in Zoetis in the first quarter valued at about $164,000. TCTC Holdings LLC grew its stake in Zoetis by 6.5% in the first quarter. TCTC Holdings LLC now owns 42,672 shares of the companys stock valued at $7,026,000 after purchasing an additional 2,616 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Pin Oak Investment Advisors Inc. grew its stake in shares of Zoetis by 34.4% during the first quarter. Pin Oak Investment Advisors Inc. now owns 461 shares of the companys stock worth $76,000 after acquiring an additional 118 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 92.80% of the companys stock. Get Zoetis alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on ZTS shares. UBS Group dropped their price target on Zoetis from $189.00 to $170.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, May 7th. Stifel Nicolaus downgraded Zoetis from a buy rating to a hold rating and decreased their price target for the company from $165.00 to $160.00 in a report on Wednesday, June 18th. Piper Sandler boosted their price target on Zoetis from $205.00 to $210.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Monday, May 12th. Leerink Partners downgraded Zoetis from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and decreased their price target for the company from $180.00 to $155.00 in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, Leerink Partnrs downgraded Zoetis from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, July 17th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, six have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $204.63. Insider Transactions at Zoetis In other news, EVP Roxanne Lagano sold 652 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, June 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $170.00, for a total transaction of $110,840.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president owned 15,129 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,571,930. This trade represents a 4.13% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. 0.18% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Zoetis Stock Down 1.0% Shares of NYSE:ZTS opened at $150.65 on Tuesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.04, a current ratio of 1.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.12. The business has a fifty day moving average of $159.64 and a two-hundred day moving average of $160.87. The stock has a market cap of $67.07 billion, a P/E ratio of 27.05, a PEG ratio of 2.52 and a beta of 0.91. Zoetis Inc. has a 52-week low of $139.70 and a 52-week high of $200.33. Zoetis (NYSE:ZTS Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, May 6th. The company reported $1.48 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.40 by $0.08. Zoetis had a return on equity of 55.48% and a net margin of 27.12%. The business had revenue of $2.22 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.20 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $1.38 EPS. The companys revenue was up 1.4% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts expect that Zoetis Inc. will post 6.07 earnings per share for the current year. Zoetis Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, September 3rd. Shareholders of record on Friday, July 18th will be given a $0.50 dividend. This represents a $2.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.33%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, July 18th. Zoetiss dividend payout ratio is currently 35.91%. Zoetis Profile (Free Report) Zoetis Inc engages in the discovery, development, manufacture, and commercialization of animal health medicines, vaccines, and diagnostic products and services in the United States and internationally. The company commercializes products primarily across species, including livestock, such as cattle, swine, poultry, fish, and sheep and others; and companion animals comprising dogs, cats, and horses. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Zoetis Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Zoetis and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Premier Fund Managers Ltd grew its position in shares of Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO Free Report) by 49.5% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 142,000 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 47,000 shares during the period. Premier Fund Managers Ltds holdings in Altria Group were worth $8,232,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in MO. GAMMA Investing LLC grew its holdings in shares of Altria Group by 6,969.4% during the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 2,162,401 shares of the companys stock worth $129,787,000 after acquiring an additional 2,131,813 shares during the period. Castlekeep Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Altria Group during the 4th quarter worth approximately $91,000. Northern Trust Corp grew its holdings in shares of Altria Group by 9.6% during the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 16,432,535 shares of the companys stock worth $859,257,000 after acquiring an additional 1,444,021 shares during the period. Royal Bank of Canada grew its holdings in shares of Altria Group by 17.4% during the 4th quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 8,927,340 shares of the companys stock worth $466,811,000 after acquiring an additional 1,323,421 shares during the period. Finally, Bridgewater Associates LP grew its holdings in shares of Altria Group by 86.0% during the 4th quarter. Bridgewater Associates LP now owns 2,675,347 shares of the companys stock worth $139,894,000 after acquiring an additional 1,236,782 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 57.41% of the companys stock. Get Altria Group alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms have weighed in on MO. Wall Street Zen downgraded Altria Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, May 1st. UBS Group upgraded Altria Group from a sell rating to a neutral rating and upped their target price for the stock from $47.00 to $59.00 in a report on Wednesday, July 2nd. Jefferies Financial Group assumed coverage on Altria Group in a report on Wednesday, July 9th. They set an underperform rating and a $50.00 target price on the stock. Barclays boosted their price target on Altria Group from $46.00 to $49.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Friday, May 2nd. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price target on Altria Group from $60.00 to $63.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $56.75. Altria Group Stock Down 1.9% Shares of MO opened at $58.73 on Tuesday. The stock has a market cap of $98.93 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.84, a P/E/G ratio of 3.45 and a beta of 0.59. Altria Group, Inc. has a 52 week low of $47.57 and a 52 week high of $61.26. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $59.26 and its 200-day moving average price is $57.19. Altria Group (NYSE:MO Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 29th. The company reported $1.23 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.19 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $4.52 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.64 billion. Altria Group had a negative return on equity of 295.44% and a net margin of 43.09%. The firms quarterly revenue was down 4.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.15 EPS. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.32 EPS for the current year. Altria Group Announces Dividend The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, July 10th. Investors of record on Monday, June 16th were given a $1.02 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, June 16th. This represents a $4.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.95%. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 68.34%. Altria Group Profile (Free Report) Altria Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells smokeable and oral tobacco products in the United States. The company offers cigarettes primarily under the Marlboro brand; large cigars and pipe tobacco under the Black & Mild brand; moist smokeless tobacco and snus products under the Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal, and Husky brands; oral nicotine pouches under the on! brand; and e-vapor products under the NJOY ACE brand. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Altria Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Altria Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Premier Fund Managers Ltd lowered its stake in Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (NYSE:CP Free Report) (TSE:CP) by 1.8% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 267,616 shares of the transportation companys stock after selling 5,000 shares during the quarter. Premier Fund Managers Ltds holdings in Canadian Pacific Kansas City were worth $18,618,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. Several other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Kirtland Hills Capital Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 7.8% in the first quarter. Kirtland Hills Capital Management LLC now owns 7,090 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $528,000 after buying an additional 512 shares during the period. Ramirez Asset Management Inc. raised its stake in Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 43.3% during the 1st quarter. Ramirez Asset Management Inc. now owns 41,241 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $2,896,000 after purchasing an additional 12,463 shares during the period. Viawealth LLC raised its stake in Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 3.1% during the 1st quarter. Viawealth LLC now owns 7,255 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $509,000 after purchasing an additional 217 shares during the period. Mackenzie Financial Corp raised its stake in Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 6.5% during the 1st quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 16,347,804 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $1,147,220,000 after purchasing an additional 999,522 shares during the period. Finally, TCW Group Inc. raised its stake in Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 4.9% during the 1st quarter. TCW Group Inc. now owns 192,220 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $13,496,000 after purchasing an additional 9,000 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 72.20% of the companys stock. Get Canadian Pacific Kansas City alerts: Canadian Pacific Kansas City Price Performance Shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City stock opened at $75.92 on Tuesday. The stock has a market cap of $69.69 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.65, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.15 and a beta of 1.07. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43, a quick ratio of 0.70 and a current ratio of 0.81. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $80.24 and a 200-day moving average price of $76.95. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited has a one year low of $66.49 and a one year high of $87.72. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Increases Dividend Canadian Pacific Kansas City ( NYSE:CP Get Free Report ) (TSE:CP) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, April 30th. The transportation company reported $0.74 EPS for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.74. Canadian Pacific Kansas City had a return on equity of 8.68% and a net margin of 25.99%. The firm had revenue of $2.66 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.56 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $0.93 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 8.0% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts expect that Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited will post 3.42 EPS for the current year. The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, July 28th. Investors of record on Friday, June 27th were issued a dividend of $0.1644 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, June 27th. This represents a $0.66 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.87%. This is a boost from Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys previous quarterly dividend of $0.13. Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys payout ratio is presently 22.30%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades CP has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Scotiabank reissued an outperform rating on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. Wall Street Zen downgraded Canadian Pacific Kansas City from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Saturday, June 14th. Susquehanna reissued a positive rating and set a $94.00 target price (up previously from $90.00) on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City in a research note on Tuesday, June 24th. Royal Bank Of Canada decreased their target price on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $122.00 to $121.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, May 1st. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group decreased their target price on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $100.00 to $90.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 9th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Canadian Pacific Kansas City presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $91.95. Check Out Our Latest Report on CP Canadian Pacific Kansas City Company Profile (Free Report) Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates a transcontinental freight railway in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The company transports bulk commodities, including grain, coal, potash, fertilizers, and sulphur; merchandise freight, such as forest products, energy, chemicals and plastics, metals, minerals, consumer products, and automotive; and intermodal traffic comprising retail goods in overseas containers. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (NYSE:CP Free Report) (TSE:CP). Receive News & Ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Trane Technologies (NYSE:TT Get Free Report) and Watsco (NYSE:WSO.B Get Free Report) are both large-cap construction companies, but which is the better investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their valuation, risk, earnings, dividends, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership and profitability. Dividends Trane Technologies pays an annual dividend of $3.76 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.8%. Watsco pays an annual dividend of $12.00 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.5%. Trane Technologies pays out 31.3% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Watsco pays out 92.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Trane Technologies has increased its dividend for 5 consecutive years. Get Trane Technologies alerts: Insider & Institutional Ownership 83.0% of Trane Technologies shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 0.1% of Watsco shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.4% of Trane Technologies shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 13.8% of Watsco shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth. Earnings & Valuation Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Trane Technologies $19.84 billion 5.31 $2.57 billion $12.02 39.31 Watsco $7.62 billion 2.57 $536.29 million $13.01 37.11 This table compares Trane Technologies and Watscos top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Trane Technologies has higher revenue and earnings than Watsco. Watsco is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Trane Technologies, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Analyst Ratings This is a summary of current ratings and recommmendations for Trane Technologies and Watsco, as reported by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Trane Technologies 1 7 7 1 2.50 Watsco 0 0 0 0 0.00 Trane Technologies currently has a consensus price target of $441.40, indicating a potential downside of 6.57%. Given Trane Technologies stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, equities research analysts plainly believe Trane Technologies is more favorable than Watsco. Profitability This table compares Trane Technologies and Watscos net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Trane Technologies 13.47% 36.10% 13.13% Watsco 6.98% 17.13% 11.86% Risk & Volatility Trane Technologies has a beta of 1.15, meaning that its share price is 15% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Watsco has a beta of 0.59, meaning that its share price is 41% less volatile than the S&P 500. Summary Trane Technologies beats Watsco on 15 of the 18 factors compared between the two stocks. About Trane Technologies (Get Free Report) Trane Technologies plc, together with its subsidiaries, designs, manufactures, sells, and services of solutions for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, custom, and custom and transport refrigeration in Ireland and internationally. It offers air conditioners, exchangers, and handlers; airside and terminal devices; air sourced heat pumps, auxiliary power units; chillers; coils and condensers; gensets; dehumidifiers; ductless; furnaces; home automation products; humidifiers; indoor air quality assessments and related products; large and light commercial unitary products; refrigerant reclamation products; thermostats/controls; transport heater products; variable refrigerant flow products; and water source heat pumps. The company also provides building management, telematic, control, energy efficiency and infrastructure program, geothermal, thermal energy, thermostats, rate chambers, package heating and cooling, temporary heating and cooling, and unitary systems; bus, rail, and multi-pipe heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems; and container, diesel-powered, truck, industrial, rail, self-powered truck, trailer, and vehicle-powered truck refrigeration and air filtration systems, as well as aftermarket and OEM parts and supplies. In addition, it offers energy and facility management, installation and performance contracting, repair and maintenance, and rental services. It markets and sells its products under the Trane and Thermo King brands through sales offices, distributors, and dealers; and through sales and service companies with a supporting chain of distributors. The company was formerly known as Ingersoll-Rand Plc and changed its name to Trane Technologies plc in March 2020. Trane Technologies plc was founded in 1885 and is headquartered in Swords, Ireland. About Watsco (Get Free Report) Watsco, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, distributes air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration equipment; and related parts and supplies in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. It offers residential ducted and ductless air conditioners; gas, electric, and oil furnaces; commercial air conditioning and heating equipment systems; and other specialized equipment. The company also provides parts comprising replacement compressors, evaporator coils, motors, and other component parts; and supplies, such as thermostats, insulation material, refrigerants, ductwork, grills, registers, sheet metal, tools, copper tubing, concrete pads, tapes, adhesives, and other ancillary supplies. It serves contractors and dealers that service the replacement and new construction markets for residential and light commercial central air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration systems. In addition, the company exports its products to Latin America and the Caribbean Basin. Watsco, Inc. was founded in 1945 and is headquartered in Miami, Florida. Receive News & Ratings for Trane Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Trane Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of RXO INC (NYSE:RXO Get Free Report) have been assigned an average rating of Hold from the sixteen analysts that are covering the stock, Marketbeat.com reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, twelve have given a hold recommendation and three have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average 1-year price objective among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $18.87. RXO has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Oppenheimer cut shares of RXO from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research report on Friday, April 4th. Jefferies Financial Group cut their price objective on shares of RXO from $26.00 to $20.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, April 11th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut their price objective on shares of RXO from $15.00 to $14.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, July 8th. Stifel Nicolaus dropped their price target on shares of RXO from $24.00 to $14.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, May 8th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price target on shares of RXO from $20.00 to $15.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, May 8th. Get RXO alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Report on RXO RXO Price Performance RXO stock opened at $16.99 on Thursday. RXO has a 12-month low of $12.19 and a 12-month high of $32.82. The stock has a market cap of $2.79 billion, a P/E ratio of -7.83, a PEG ratio of 8.62 and a beta of 1.69. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $16.13 and a 200 day moving average price of $17.88. The company has a current ratio of 1.30, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24. RXO (NYSE:RXO Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 7th. The company reported ($0.03) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.02) by ($0.01). RXO had a positive return on equity of 1.18% and a negative net margin of 5.94%. The firm had revenue of $1.43 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.51 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted ($0.03) earnings per share. RXOs revenue for the quarter was up 57.0% on a year-over-year basis. Sell-side analysts anticipate that RXO will post 0.31 earnings per share for the current year. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. acquired a new position in shares of RXO in the first quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Larson Financial Group LLC grew its holdings in shares of RXO by 1,990.2% in the first quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 1,714 shares of the companys stock valued at $33,000 after purchasing an additional 1,632 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC grew its holdings in shares of RXO by 234.4% in the first quarter. CWM LLC now owns 1,876 shares of the companys stock valued at $36,000 after purchasing an additional 1,315 shares in the last quarter. Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. grew its holdings in shares of RXO by 52.5% in the first quarter. Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. now owns 2,745 shares of the companys stock valued at $52,000 after purchasing an additional 945 shares in the last quarter. Finally, GAMMA Investing LLC grew its holdings in shares of RXO by 165.1% in the second quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 5,135 shares of the companys stock valued at $81,000 after purchasing an additional 3,198 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 92.73% of the companys stock. RXO Company Profile (Get Free Report RXO, Inc provides full truckload freight transportation brokering services. It also offers brokered services for managed transportation, last mile, and freight forwarding. The company was incorporated in 2022 and is based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for RXO Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for RXO and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cozad Asset Management Inc. increased its position in shares of Targa Resources, Inc. (NYSE:TRGP Free Report) by 1,270.7% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 26,180 shares of the pipeline companys stock after acquiring an additional 24,270 shares during the period. Cozad Asset Management Inc.s holdings in Targa Resources were worth $5,248,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Meeder Asset Management Inc. increased its holdings in Targa Resources by 1,895.3% during the 1st quarter. Meeder Asset Management Inc. now owns 34,559 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $6,928,000 after purchasing an additional 32,827 shares during the period. Meeder Advisory Services Inc. increased its holdings in Targa Resources by 22.1% during the 1st quarter. Meeder Advisory Services Inc. now owns 5,140 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $1,030,000 after purchasing an additional 930 shares during the period. Picton Mahoney Asset Management increased its holdings in Targa Resources by 19.6% during the 1st quarter. Picton Mahoney Asset Management now owns 81,377 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $16,311,000 after purchasing an additional 13,324 shares during the period. Fielder Capital Group LLC increased its holdings in Targa Resources by 20.1% during the 1st quarter. Fielder Capital Group LLC now owns 1,619 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $325,000 after purchasing an additional 271 shares during the period. Finally, Mackenzie Financial Corp increased its holdings in Targa Resources by 28.3% during the 1st quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 200,645 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $40,223,000 after purchasing an additional 44,274 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 92.13% of the companys stock. Get Targa Resources alerts: Targa Resources Trading Up 0.9% NYSE:TRGP opened at $167.10 on Tuesday. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $167.34 and its 200 day moving average price is $180.69. The company has a market capitalization of $36.25 billion, a PE ratio of 30.77, a P/E/G ratio of 1.08 and a beta of 1.07. The company has a quick ratio of 0.57, a current ratio of 0.65 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.04. Targa Resources, Inc. has a 52-week low of $122.56 and a 52-week high of $218.51. Targa Resources Increases Dividend Targa Resources ( NYSE:TRGP Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The pipeline company reported $0.91 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.04 by ($1.13). Targa Resources had a return on equity of 30.48% and a net margin of 7.35%. The firm had revenue of $4.56 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.01 billion. On average, research analysts anticipate that Targa Resources, Inc. will post 8.15 EPS for the current year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, July 31st will be given a dividend of $1.00 per share. This represents a $4.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.39%. This is a boost from Targa Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.12. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 31st. Targa Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 73.66%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms have recently commented on TRGP. UBS Group dropped their price objective on Targa Resources from $259.00 to $228.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, May 15th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $205.00 price objective on shares of Targa Resources in a report on Tuesday, July 15th. Citigroup dropped their price objective on Targa Resources from $227.00 to $197.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Friday, May 9th. The Goldman Sachs Group dropped their price objective on Targa Resources from $218.00 to $194.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Monday, May 5th. Finally, TD Securities began coverage on Targa Resources in a report on Monday, July 7th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, thirteen have issued a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $209.86. Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Targa Resources Targa Resources Company Profile (Free Report) Targa Resources Corp., together with its subsidiary, Targa Resources Partners LP, owns, operates, acquires, and develops a portfolio of complementary domestic midstream infrastructure assets in North America. It operates in two segments, Gathering and Processing, and Logistics and Transportation. The company is involved in gathering, compressing, treating, processing, transporting, and selling natural gas; storing, fractionating, treating, transporting, and selling natural gas liquids (NGL) and NGL products, including services to liquefied petroleum gas exporters; and gathering, storing, terminaling, purchasing, and selling crude oil. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TRGP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Targa Resources, Inc. (NYSE:TRGP Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Targa Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Targa Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. TD Asset Management Inc grew its stake in Blackstone Inc. (NYSE:BX Free Report) by 7.1% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 289,483 shares of the asset managers stock after acquiring an additional 19,307 shares during the period. TD Asset Management Incs holdings in Blackstone were worth $40,464,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Mediolanum International Funds Ltd grew its holdings in Blackstone by 15.2% during the first quarter. Mediolanum International Funds Ltd now owns 28,445 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $3,929,000 after purchasing an additional 3,749 shares during the period. Angeles Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in Blackstone by 0.6% during the first quarter. Angeles Wealth Management LLC now owns 11,819 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $1,652,000 after purchasing an additional 76 shares during the period. Kranot Hishtalmut Le Morim Tichoniim Havera Menahelet LTD acquired a new position in Blackstone during the first quarter valued at approximately $4,179,000. Kranot Hishtalmut Le Morim Ve Gananot Havera Menahelet LTD acquired a new position in Blackstone during the first quarter valued at approximately $12,236,000. Finally, Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ boosted its holdings in shares of Blackstone by 0.8% in the first quarter. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ now owns 200,821 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $27,994,000 after buying an additional 1,668 shares during the period. 70.00% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Blackstone alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods upped their price target on shares of Blackstone from $168.00 to $180.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a report on Friday. Citigroup reiterated a market perform rating on shares of Blackstone in a report on Saturday, July 19th. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a neutral rating on shares of Blackstone in a report on Friday. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upped their price target on shares of Blackstone from $170.00 to $192.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on shares of Blackstone from $153.00 to $167.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, July 11th. Ten investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $170.12. Blackstone Stock Performance NYSE BX opened at $176.82 on Tuesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.74, a quick ratio of 0.75 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.61. The firms fifty day moving average price is $149.73 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $150.43. Blackstone Inc. has a 1 year low of $115.66 and a 1 year high of $200.96. The firm has a market capitalization of $129.02 billion, a P/E ratio of 47.53, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.55 and a beta of 1.65. Blackstone (NYSE:BX Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 24th. The asset manager reported $1.21 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.10 by $0.11. The company had revenue of $3.07 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.77 billion. Blackstone had a net margin of 20.83% and a return on equity of 20.47%. The companys revenue was up 32.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.98 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Blackstone Inc. will post 5.87 EPS for the current year. Blackstone Increases Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, August 11th. Stockholders of record on Monday, August 4th will be given a $1.03 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, August 4th. This is a positive change from Blackstones previous quarterly dividend of $0.93. This represents a $4.12 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.33%. Blackstones dividend payout ratio is presently 100.00%. Insider Activity at Blackstone In related news, insider John G. Finley sold 25,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, May 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $138.47, for a total value of $3,461,750.00. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 475,336 shares in the company, valued at approximately $65,819,775.92. This represents a 5.00% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, insider Private Credit Stra Blackstone purchased 1,660,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, May 1st. The stock was acquired at an average price of $15.00 per share, for a total transaction of $24,900,000.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the insider directly owned 1,666,667 shares of the companys stock, valued at $25,000,005. This represents a 24,898.76% increase in their position. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders purchased 2,849,769 shares of company stock valued at $54,932,307 over the last three months. Company insiders own 1.00% of the companys stock. Blackstone Company Profile (Free Report) Blackstone Inc is an alternative asset management firm specializing in real estate, private equity, hedge fund solutions, credit, secondary funds of funds, public debt and equity and multi-asset class strategies. The firm typically invests in early-stage companies. It also provide capital markets services. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Blackstone Inc. (NYSE:BX Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Blackstone Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Blackstone and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Viawealth LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (NYSE:CP Free Report) (TSE:CP) by 3.1% during the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 7,255 shares of the transportation companys stock after purchasing an additional 217 shares during the quarter. Viawealth LLCs holdings in Canadian Pacific Kansas City were worth $509,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the stock. Capital Insight Partners LLC increased its stake in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 0.4% in the first quarter. Capital Insight Partners LLC now owns 40,700 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $2,858,000 after buying an additional 143 shares during the last quarter. Davidson Trust Co. increased its position in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 3.2% in the 1st quarter. Davidson Trust Co. now owns 4,660 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $327,000 after purchasing an additional 144 shares during the last quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC increased its position in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 2.2% in the 4th quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC now owns 7,194 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $521,000 after purchasing an additional 152 shares during the last quarter. Transatlantique Private Wealth LLC increased its position in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 1.6% in the 4th quarter. Transatlantique Private Wealth LLC now owns 10,066 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $728,000 after purchasing an additional 157 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Tradewinds LLC. increased its position in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 3.8% in the 1st quarter. Tradewinds LLC. now owns 4,326 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $304,000 after purchasing an additional 157 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 72.20% of the companys stock. Get Canadian Pacific Kansas City alerts: Canadian Pacific Kansas City Trading Down 1.3% NYSE:CP opened at $75.92 on Tuesday. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited has a 1 year low of $66.49 and a 1 year high of $87.72. The stock has a market cap of $69.69 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.65, a PEG ratio of 2.15 and a beta of 1.07. The business has a fifty day moving average of $80.24 and a 200-day moving average of $76.95. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43, a quick ratio of 0.70 and a current ratio of 0.81. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Increases Dividend Canadian Pacific Kansas City ( NYSE:CP Get Free Report ) (TSE:CP) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, April 30th. The transportation company reported $0.74 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $0.74. The firm had revenue of $2.66 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.56 billion. Canadian Pacific Kansas City had a net margin of 25.99% and a return on equity of 8.68%. Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys revenue was up 8.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $0.93 EPS. Equities analysts predict that Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited will post 3.42 earnings per share for the current year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, July 28th. Stockholders of record on Friday, June 27th were issued a $0.1644 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 27th. This is a boost from Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys previous quarterly dividend of $0.13. This represents a $0.66 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.87%. Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 22.30%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades CP has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Scotiabank reissued an outperform rating on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City in a report on Thursday, July 10th. Jefferies Financial Group lowered their price target on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $100.00 to $90.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, April 9th. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a neutral rating and issued a $91.00 price target on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City in a report on Monday, June 2nd. Citigroup boosted their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $89.00 to $94.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 9th. Finally, Bank of America boosted their price objective on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $82.00 to $90.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, May 16th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, four have given a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $91.95. Get Our Latest Report on CP Canadian Pacific Kansas City Profile (Free Report) Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates a transcontinental freight railway in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The company transports bulk commodities, including grain, coal, potash, fertilizers, and sulphur; merchandise freight, such as forest products, energy, chemicals and plastics, metals, minerals, consumer products, and automotive; and intermodal traffic comprising retail goods in overseas containers. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (NYSE:CP Free Report) (TSE:CP). Receive News & Ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. A community of respect and inclusion DalU is an official Dalhousie University app and desktop portal, and the conversation on it belongs to all members of the Dal community. This is an inclusive space for all users, and we expect participants to keep conversations respectful and appropriate. We are a diverse university community with differing views and ideas. DalU encourages civil and respectful discourse. Not everyone will think the way you think, or share the same opinions, so if you disagree with an idea, be respectful in your interactions with other members. Please keep in mind the Groups on DalU are not your personal social feeds. They are official university channels. We encourage you to use your personal channels for non-university discussion. Community standards/moderation To ensure the dialogue on DalU remains relevant and engaging for all users, moderators will apply the following principles when reviewing your posts and comments. We know that student life topics can be broad, but we ask that users keep posts relevant to your university experience. Ask yourself: Is my post relevant/useful/helpful to my peers and other members of the Dalhousie community? Am I comfortable if professors/faculty see this? (Yes, your profsand possibly deansare on DalU.) DalU reserves the right to remove, mute and/or block users who are deemed to be breaking our community guidelines. We reserve the right to remove posts/comments, at our discretion, that: are vulgar, inappropriate, defamatory, disrespectful, indecent, hateful, racist, xenophobic, homophobic, transphobic, sexist, or otherwise degrading, defamatory, or discriminatory encourage or suggest illegal activity, or are unlawful in any way incite violence, either to ones self or to others promote alcohol or substances abuse solicit, spam, or promote endeavours unrelated to Dalhousie include threats, profanity, spam, slurs, or other abusive commentary degrade any race, religion, gender, age, or abilities are menacing, harassing, or infringe upon any persons right to safe use of the app have an implied intent of violating the terms of use and community guidelines All university policies apply when using DalU, including the Acceptable Use policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Posts out of compliance with these conditions will be removed and will be reported to the Office of the Vice-Provost, Student Affairs. Disciplinary action may be taken if users of the Dal Mobile app do not follow this community expectation. DalU is a community space and should not be treated like your personal social feed. We want you to connect with one another and be active contributors in the DalU community, but please be considerate of other community members and make a conscious effort not to dilute the Groups by posting too much (spamming) or posting content that is irrelevant to the broader community. Frequency and relevance of posts are subject to the moderators discretion. We suggest moving ongoing conversations or interactions to your personal channels or conducting them in a private message or custom group within the app. We welcome debate and dissent, but personal attacks on other DalU users, moderators, or general members of the Dalhousie University community, and persistent trolling will not be tolerated. DalU is a professional space for civil discussion relevant to your university experience. Do not post photos and names of other students if they do not provide consent for you to do so. Please respect the privacy of others. Reported posts will be removed. We acknowledge constructive criticism toward Dalhousie University, its services, policies and performance, and hope we can advance the community and our services as a result of constructive feedback; however, moderators will remove false representations of the university including posts about individual faculty or staff members. For the sake of robust debate, DalU moderators will distinguish between constructive, focused debate and propaganda or smear tactics. We understand that people may feel strongly about issues discussed on DalU, but we may remove content that others might find offensive or threatening. Please be respectful of the opinions and beliefs of others. We reserve the right to redirect or curtail conversations that descend into repetitive flame-wars based on personal opinion or generalizations. We encourage you to discuss issues you are passionate about, but we do ask users to find ways of sharing views that do not feel alienating or threatening to others. The general DalU community serves as a form of moderation. Any member of the community may report a post as inappropriate. If a post receives four flags by community members, it will automatically be removed from the feed. If you feel you have had a post flagged inappropriately or unfairly, please email mobile@dal.ca. If a user is deemed to have flagged a post because of disingenuous motives, disciplinary measures may be taken against them. Queries or comments about moderation may be removed. If you feel your post has been removed unfairly, either by DalU moderators or by the community, the moderation team may review deleted posts (please send to mobile@dal.ca); however, clearly abusive posts removed by moderators will not be subject to review and posts asking, why was my post deleted? will not be deliberated. We ask that users maintain a measured tone and do not shout. Comments submitted in ALL-CAPS, or similar, may be removed, depending on context. Also be aware that you may be misunderstood, so try to be clear. Expect that people may understand your post differently than you intended. Tone of voice (sarcasm, humour and so on) doesnt always translate well online, so err on the side of caution. If you spot something problematic on DalU, please report as inappropriate or send an email to mobile@dal.ca to help us create an inclusive space for all Dal citizens. We will evolve these standards, as necessary, in order to ensure a respectful and inclusive community for our students. You may not be directly contacted if your post has been removed. We also reserve the right to reject posts that direct readers to third-party websites. What else? Know your audience Ensure your posts and comments are relevant to the university community. Everything is public Nothing is private when posting or commenting on a public feed, and you are not anonymous on Dal Mobile. Your profs are on the app, too! Dont say something you might regret later. Also, the information you share on DalU may be captured, stored, accessed, and potentially disclosed and used inappropriately by others, so be mindful of what you post. Your comments are your own Any comments or opinions shared on DalU are your own and do not express the views of Dalhousie University or its employees. Use your own original content All content posted by users on DalU must comply with copyright rules and intellectual property rights. Please note: If you choose to enable Email Notifications in your account settings, be aware that email contents may be relayed through a third-party service provider (SendGrid) hosted in the United States. SendGrid may store email contents in its logs for up to 7 days. Optional information you choose to provide as part of your public profile (such as Education, Places, Hobbies, etc.) will be visible to other users. Exercise caution in sharing personal information in your profile. Updates to the guidelines DalU reserves the right to amend these Guidelines at any time without prior notice. Contact us If you have any questions or suggestions regarding our Guidelines or any other matter regarding DalU, please email mobile@dal.ca If you choose to disregard the community guidelines Two strikes, youre muted Students who post content that is deliberately offensive, racist, sexist, homophobic, or includes any other discriminatory content, or users who are spamming the student feed will be subject to a two-strikes-youre-muted policy. Any student who receives a formal warning from DalU reminding them of the Terms of Use/Community Guidelines, and then violates the Terms of Use/Community Guidelines a second time, will be muted for a period of seven days. Subsequent warnings will result in automatic muting of the user account for at least 30 days and the students conduct will be escalated to the review committee for block/ban consideration and potential escalation to the VPSA Office. Zero tolerance cases More severe cases (e.g. harassment/discrimination that violates the Student Code of Conduct) may warrant a permanent ban and escalation to the VPSA Office. In such an event, the users account will be muted until the escalation review process is completed. IFP Advisors Inc cut its holdings in shares of Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H Free Report) by 33.6% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 1,249 shares of the companys stock after selling 633 shares during the quarter. IFP Advisors Incs holdings in Hyatt Hotels were worth $159,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Get Hyatt Hotels alerts: Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. State of Alaska Department of Revenue boosted its stake in Hyatt Hotels by 127.9% during the first quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 10,995 shares of the companys stock worth $1,346,000 after buying an additional 6,170 shares during the period. Bridges Investment Management Inc. lifted its stake in Hyatt Hotels by 87.0% in the first quarter. Bridges Investment Management Inc. now owns 8,119 shares of the companys stock worth $995,000 after acquiring an additional 3,778 shares during the period. TT International Asset Management LTD boosted its position in Hyatt Hotels by 10.0% during the 1st quarter. TT International Asset Management LTD now owns 37,017 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,535,000 after acquiring an additional 3,360 shares in the last quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC bought a new stake in Hyatt Hotels during the 1st quarter valued at $488,000. Finally, Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA lifted its holdings in shares of Hyatt Hotels by 0.3% during the 4th quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 2,849,892 shares of the companys stock valued at $447,376,000 after purchasing an additional 9,477 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 73.54% of the companys stock. Insider Activity at Hyatt Hotels In related news, major shareholder Hotels Corp Hyatt purchased 996,587 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 13th. The shares were purchased at an average price of $13.50 per share, for a total transaction of $13,453,924.50. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 117,077,441 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,580,545,453.50. The trade was a 0.86% increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, insider Jnp Parachute Mirror Trust K sold 44,466 shares of Hyatt Hotels stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, May 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $132.75, for a total value of $5,902,861.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 371,111 shares of company stock valued at $49,273,516 over the last 90 days. 23.70% of the stock is owned by insiders. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of brokerages recently issued reports on H. Stifel Nicolaus reduced their target price on Hyatt Hotels from $156.75 to $132.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, April 16th. Morgan Stanley cut their price target on Hyatt Hotels from $127.00 to $112.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, April 22nd. Raymond James Financial upgraded Hyatt Hotels from a market perform rating to a strong-buy rating and set a $165.00 price target for the company in a research note on Tuesday, July 1st. Evercore ISI reduced their price objective on Hyatt Hotels from $175.00 to $160.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, May 2nd. Finally, Robert W. Baird upped their price target on Hyatt Hotels from $148.00 to $150.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Monday. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating, nine have assigned a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $150.74. Get Our Latest Analysis on Hyatt Hotels Hyatt Hotels Stock Down 0.6% NYSE:H opened at $147.92 on Tuesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.98, a current ratio of 0.98 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.04. The stocks fifty day moving average is $138.74 and its two-hundred day moving average is $134.95. Hyatt Hotels Corporation has a 52 week low of $102.43 and a 52 week high of $168.20. The stock has a market capitalization of $14.12 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.21, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.73 and a beta of 1.42. Hyatt Hotels (NYSE:H Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 1st. The company reported $0.46 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.30 by $0.16. The business had revenue of $1.68 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.71 billion. Hyatt Hotels had a return on equity of 8.98% and a net margin of 11.94%. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.71 EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Hyatt Hotels Corporation will post 3.05 EPS for the current year. Hyatt Hotels Dividend Announcement The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, June 11th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, May 29th were given a dividend of $0.15 per share. This represents a $0.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.41%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, May 29th. Hyatt Hotelss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 7.79%. About Hyatt Hotels (Free Report) Hyatt Hotels Corporation operates as a hospitality company in the United States and internationally. It operates through Owned and Leased Hotels, Americas Management and Franchising, ASPAC Management and Franchising, EAME Management and Franchising, and Apple Leisure Group segments. The company manages, franchises, licenses, owns, and leases portfolio of properties, consisting of full-service hotels and resorts, select service hotels, and other properties, including timeshare, fractional, residential, vacation, and condominium units. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding H? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Hyatt Hotels Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hyatt Hotels and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Four local SuperValu and Centra stores have earned national recognition, securing shortlists in seven categories at the highly esteemed 2025 UK Retail Industry Awards. Celebrating three decades of excellence in grocery retail, this event is widely regarded as the Oscars of the sector. Morans SuperValu in Ballykelly has earned a coveted spot in the Independent Retailer of the Year category (3,001 6,000 sq ft) while the family, which has a long and successful history of convenience food retailing in the North West, has also received a shortlist in the Food to Go Retailer of the Year category (over 3,001 sq ft) for its busy Centra store on Strand Road in Derry. Kavanaghs Centra Waterloo Place in the city, which was recently honoured with the Centra Store of the Year award for the fourth time by Musgrave NI, has earned a place in the finals of the Food to Go Retailer of the Year in the smaller size store category (under 3,000 sq ft). Theyll be facing competition in the same category from Bradleys Centra in Maghera, which was inducted into the High Street Heroes Hall of Fame earlier this month. Bradleys Centra is also vying for three additional awards: Best Use of Technology, Drinks Retailer of the Year, and Forecourt Retailer of the Year. David Higgins, Retail Sales Director at Musgrave NI added: Congratulations to the teams behind each of these stores for reaching the finals of such prestigious awards. Their well-earned shortlistings are a true reflection of the dedication and passion they bring to modern convenience retailing delivering excellent service, exceptional quality and range, and the best value to their customers every day. Wishing all the teams the best of luck for the awards in September. READ NEXT: Yomiko Cafe Opens Its Doors to Dogs With a Little Help from Best Bark Rewarding excellence and outstanding achievement across a broad range of categories, while recognising independent retailers alongside the large supermarket groups, the Retail Industry Awards will take place in London on September 30. The Centra brand has also been shortlisted in the Symbol/Franchise Group of the Year category while sister brand SuperValu NI is a finalist in the Community Retailer of the Year group. Musgrave NI, which owns the brands and operates 43 company owned SuperValu and Centra stores, has also achieved finalist status in the Convenience Retailer of the Year category. Gardai have admitted that they have lost the original investigation file into the unsolved murder of Mary McGlinchey, the wife of INLA leader Dominic McGlinchey. Mary McGlinchey was brutally gunned down while bathing her two young sons, Dominic Og, aged nine, and ten year-old Declan, at their home in Dundalk, County Louth on January 31 1987. Originally from Bellaghy in south Derry, the former INLA Chief of Staff Dominic McGlinchey was shot dead in Drogheda on February 10 1994. The couples son Dominic Og, who was present at both their murders, is bringing judicial review proceedings against the Garda Commissioner arising from their failure to adequately investigate the murders of his parents. At the weekend, Mulholland Law, acting for Mr McGlinchey, confirmed that further issues had been raised in relation to An Garda Siochanas handling of the criminal investigation. In a statement, the solicitors firm stated: On foot of our motion to cross-examine a member of An Garda Siochana listed for October 2025, we have recently received an affidavit from Inspector Liam Archbold of Dundalk Garda Station, which now raises further issues of candour pertaining to An Garda Siochanas handling of the criminal investigation. Principal solicitor, Ciaran Mulholland, said: This latest affidavit from Gardai brings further revelations finally Gardai are accepting they have lost the murder file of Mary McGlinchey and the attempted murder file of Dominic McGlinchey since at least 2015. It is inconceivable that any serious criminal investigation file can vanish into thin air without any explanation, but a murder file of one of the most gruesome killings during the Troubles along with the main exhibits can disappear is shocking. The State have shown utter contempt and disregard in how they deal with survivors of our troubled past. This latest development is further evidence of how disingenuous Gardai have dealt with our Client. Despite the sound bites and spin from Government the practice of promoting access to the truth and meaningful reconciliation lacks any substance the Omagh Inquiry has highlighted this recently. It is disgraceful that our client was forced to bring High Court litigation as a result of the failures and refusals of the Garda Commissioner to engage or even meet to discuss the unsolved investigations into the deaths of his parents, both of which he witnessed as a child. It has taken years of litigation now and a pending motion to cross examine Gardai before the most basic information has been shared with our client. This is information any victim or survivor is entitled to yet it was withheld, concealed and denied by An Garda Siochana for years. This is an example of a bigger issue - the systematic flaws of toxic policing in Ireland and how there is a culture in which scrutiny and accountability is opposed and suppressed. I am again calling on the Justice Minister to take action and meet with my client and his family - no survivor should ever be expected to litigate to gain access to the truth. The news comes just days after a powerful interview with Dominic Og McGlinchey by Redwolf Media Filmmaker Sean Murray was uploaded to YouTube. In the opening minutes of the conversation, Mr McGlinchey outlines why he decided to take part in the interview. The narrative over the last 47 years about the way that my family has been described and the way that we have been constantly castigated and betrayed, I dont think is a fair reflection on the type of people that we really are, he said. In the recording, which has been viewed more than 50,000 times, Mr McGlinchey also speaks about his mothers murder files being lost. The state are holding back the truth about what happened to my parents. More so is that the state have lost my mothers murder files. All the files in relation to my mother have gone missing. A former murder squad detective has sworn an affidavit to say that he searched Dundalk Garda station, Drogheda Garda station and Ardee Garda Station and that he could find no trace of any file in relation to Mary McGlinchey. He went to Crime and Security in Phoenix Park and he could find no trace of the Mary McGlinchey murder file. He asked Crime and Security for a copy of their file, at which point they told him face-to-face that they wouldnt have any need to have a copy of the Mary McGlinchey murder file, which of course they would have had, Mr McGlinchey told Sean Murray. Not withstanding that, after removing the bath that my mother was shot in, they threw it in the back of Dundalk Garda Station and a number of years after decided to plant flowers in it. So its that contempt that the state would have for her as a woman and the protection of her two children, a nine and a ten year-old. The fact that they let two gunmen into the house, more likely. The fact that they didnt initiate any powers of arrest. The fact that they lied to the family for over 30 years and clearly stated that nobody was ever arrested in relation to the murder of Mary McGlinchey on numerous occasions through leaking things to the media, talking to solicitors, writing letters to solicitors stating that nobody has ever been arrested and that they had no direct leads and then to find out that in March of 1987 that a 32 year-old male was brought to Navan Garda Station under Section 30 of the Offences against the State Act and directly questioned for 48 hours in relation to the murder of Mary McGlinchey. The fact they felt the need to deceive the family of that. The state have constantly allowed the sullying of Mary McGlincheys name, the sullying of Dominic McGlincheys name. Eventually, not only did they kill our character, potentially theyve also covered up how they were killed and who killed them. He added: I have to protect my family name. Im lucky enough that my father called me after him and Im blessed enough that I have a son that carries my name and by God Im going to protect it. During the hour-long interview, Dominic Og recalls his mothers horrific murder. Id have been in the bedroom, Id just got out of the bath and I was putting on my pyjamas and my mother was brushing the water out of my hair when the original bang had come to the back door. We thought that Declan (his older brother) had fallen in the bath so at that point she had gone to see if he was alright and at that the two men had come running up the stairs. Ive said it before in the past, the one thing about my mother, she wasnt afraid to die. She did ask the men take me out of the house, dont be letting my children see this. They shot her dead in front of Declan. Declans chest had all the pock marks from the sparks of the submachine gun. A first murder attempt on Dominic Ogs fathers life took place on June 12 1993, the day of his brother Declans birthday. He was shot dead in Drogheda the following year, and during the conversation with Sean Murray, Mr McGlinchey details his recollection of his fathers murder. Dominic Og also stated during the interview that he had premonitions in the lead up to both of his parents murders. When you are around all that mayhem or people dying and being killed, in the lead up to both deaths you be dreaming of death a lot, he stated. Prior to my mothers, I was telling her there are gunmen coming to the house. In my dreams they were coming to kill all of us. I used to go into her in the middle of the night and Id tell her that theres men coming to the house to kill us and then the Saturday prior to her being shot she had told my father on the prison visit. We had gotten privy of having an open visit at that stage. I remember her leaning across the counter and telling him that she felt that somebody was going to come into the house and kill her and that I had said that people were going to come to the house in my dreams. The full interview can be viewed on YouTube Derry and Strabane councillors have agreed to write to British Secretary of State Hilary Benn, to ensure legislation is enacted in the North to lower the voting age to 16 in time for the 2027 electoral cycle. The proposal was brought by Cllr Emma McGinley (Sinn Fein) who welcomed the announcement British Governments decision to allow 16 and 17-year-olds to vote. It was seconded by Cllr Shaun Harkin (People Before Profit). Cllr McGinley said: As a district that is actively working towards the recognition as a child-friendly city, this council already acknowledges the importance of the voices of young people not only being listened to, but more importantly actually being heard. Young people make an incredible contribution to our communities. They are impacted by public policy just like everyone else, be it in education, health, housing, climate action, and they have every right to help shape the decisions that define their future, she added. Extending the right to vote to 16 year olds will be positive democratically and will encourage more young people to engage politically. Young people shouldn't be forced to depend on older voters to represent their distinct interests and varied values. I've been involved in politics since the age of 16 and I know of many many young people right across the island of Ireland who are probably more politically engaged, more so than some of the adults in their lives. They are activists in their own right and they deserve to have their voices and opinions taken on board especially on the issues that matter to them. It is mine and my party's belief that our young people's voices and opinions deserve to be heard which is why we brought both successful motions to Stormont calling for the right to vote to be lowered in 2012 and 2024, said Cllr McGinley. In Scotland and Wales, the ability to lower the voting age at regional and local council level is a devolved matter and the Welsh Senate and Scottish Parliament have already actioned the lowering of the franchise to 16. Cllr McGinley added: However, in the North, it is not a devolved matter and as such, I am asking this Council to write to the British Secretary of State Hillary Benn, to respect the will of the Assembly and the will of this Council on the issue. Cllr Harkin commended the National Union of Students who he said had campaigned relentlessly on this issue. It is a demand we have supported Council through numerous motions and it is frustrating the Westminster government has waited so long to do this but it is welcome news right now, he said. We should urge that legislation is enacted so that 16 and 17-year-olds can vote in the forthcoming elections here in the North. I have seen that some parties here in the chamber have opposed this. I know we we have so many discussions in here about how much we value young people and youth voices and centering child's voices and child's rights and we look at the young people who are who have campaigned year and year out for this and they are saying to us, We think that we should have the right to vote at 16 and 17. Our our council has been a leading voice in this and and hopefully this letter from the council will speed up um the enactment of this uh legislation, said Cllr Harkin. The full text of Cllr McGinleys motion read: This Council acknowledges the motions passed in the Assembly in November 2012 and September 2024 calling for the voting age to be lowered for 16 and 17 year olds; Commends both the Welsh Senedd and the Scottish Parliament for already implementing this policy for local elections while recognising that the powers to lower the voting age are not devolved to the Assembly; Welcomes the British Governments announcement to extend votes to 16 and 17 year old as for all elections; Calls on this council to write to the British Secretary of State, Hilary Benn, to ensure that forthcoming legislation is enacted in time for the 2027 electoral cycle. The Western Health and Social Care Trusts postponement of its consultation into the proposed removal of Emergency General Surgery at Enniskillens South West Acute Hospital has received cross-party support in Council. Councillors raised the impact the move would have on Altnagelvin Area Hospital in Derry and the cross-border implications of proposed changes at Letterkenny University Hospitals ED in Donegal. Welcoming the postponement, Cllr Caroline Devine (Sinn Fein) hoped it would give the Trust an opportunity now to review the whole consultation process. There needs to be a robust and meaningful public consultation that involves all of the communities affected by that decision. That includes the people of West Tyrone because they will be significantly impacted by the removal of the services there, especially in my own area around Castlederg, she said. People have been left feeling their views and their concerns are not being listened to and they are not valued, so the onus now is on the Trust to rebuild public confidence and to listen to everybody that has been affected, through meaningful public engagement. There also needs to be a plan for the South West Acute Hospital that outlines how it will be supported to meet the needs of the communities going forward, said Cllr Devine, whose observations were endorsed and supported by Ald Derek Hussey (UUP). There has been a tremendous backlash to the announcement [of the postponement of the consultation] and indeed a backlash to the nature of the way the face-to-face consultation was to be carried out, he added. It is extremely disappointing that particularly the first face-to-face which was taking place in Fermanagh was postponed at the last minute. Folk were actually on site when that postponement was announced and further, the Waterfoot face-to-face was also postponed. I fully endorse the issue that the people of West Tyrone and indeed the Omagh end of Fermanagh - Omagh need to be part of that face-to-face consultation as well. The knock-on implications, not alone for South West Acute Hospital but for Altnagelvin have to be taken into consideration. Indeed consideration of what I understand are proposed changes to the emergency provision at Letterkenny which will also impact further on Altnagelvin. So all of those issues have to be taken on board and I welcome that the consultation is to be revisited and perhaps this time they will be consulting properly on the issue and listening to the concerns of people. A man has been sentenced to death for the killing of Private Sean Rooney. The 24-year-old peacekeeper was killed while serving in Lebanon, when his UN peacekeeping convoy was attacked in December 2022. A Lebanese court has convicted the main defendant, Mohammad Ayyad, and sentenced him to death. Ayyad, who had previously admitted to firing a gun during the incident, remains at large and was not in court when the sentence was passed. Ayyad was convicted by a Military Tribunal in Beirut while two others were sentenced to two months and three months. Two others were fined and one was acquitted. Private Rooney was driving an armoured jeep when a UN peacekeeping convoy in which he was travelling came under attack in the south Lebanon town of Al-Aqbiya on December 14, 2022. Private Rooney, a Dundalk native who had lived in Newtowncunningham for the past decade, became the 48th Irish soldier to die while on a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. He was due to wed his fiance Holly McConnellogue in 2023. Private Rooney was laid to rest in Newtowncunningham with full military honours Trooper Shane Kearney, 22, was badly wounded and two others sustained minor injuries in the incident. Tanaiste and Minister for Defence, Simon Harris TD said: While noting the sentence handed down to the main defendant, I am disappointed and share the disappointment of Private Rooneys family at the lighter sentences imposed on a number of those convicted. Sean Rooney made the ultimate sacrifice in the noble pursuit of peace. This is a difficult time for his family and his colleagues, especially those who were injured that night. All our thoughts are with them at this time. Irish Defence Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy said: "We welcome the Tanaiste's statement on the conviction of those responsible for the death of our comrade, Private Sean Rooney, and the other members of the 121st Infantry Battalion injured in the attack on our peacekeepers on 14 December 2022. "Our thoughts are with the Rooney family and all those affected by the terrible incident." Lebanon has maintained a moratorium on the death penalty since 2004 and there have been no executions carried out in the last 21 years. It would be expected that the death penalty would be changed to a prison term for Ayyad were he to be captured. Read next: Gardai admit losing file relating to murder of Mary McGlinchey Taoiseach Micheal Martin said: While I welcome the conviction of the main defendant, it is unsatisfactory that he is still at large. Many will feel the sentences passed down on the other defendants are far too lenient. The justice system in Lebanon, and the delay in progressing in this case, was deeply regrettable. Peacekeeping is the most noble cause of all, and the role of the peacekeeper must at all times be honoured and respected. A panel discussion at Feile 2025 will take a closer look at the Executives draft anti-poverty strategy, which has faced strong criticism from campaigners, academics, politicians and frontline organisations who say it falls far short of whats needed. The event brings together a panel of speakers with deep insight into the realities of poverty across the north of Ireland - including research experts, community leaders, and people with lived experience. Among those taking part is Trasa Canavan, Chair of the Anti-Poverty Strategy Group and Senior Policy & Public Affairs Lead at Barnardos NI. She works directly with services supporting children and families, using that frontline evidence to influence policy at Stormont. She is also a Trustee of the Childrens Law Centre. Shell be joined by Dr Ciara Fitzpatrick, a Senior Lecturer in Law at Ulster University and Vice-Chair of the NI Anti-Poverty Network. Her research focuses on how social security policy impacts women and children. Fitzpatrick also chairs the All-Island Social Security Network. Karen Mullan, Director of the Foyle Network Foundation, will speak from her organisations experience delivering emergency food and household support across the Derry area, while also working to tackle the deeper causes of poverty. The Foundation is a member of the Trussell Trust network and coordinates a strong local partnership aimed at long-term change. The panel will also feature a member of the Foyle Network Foundations lived experience group, sharing first-hand perspectives on living with poverty and accessing support in the north west. The discussions will cut through policy jargon, taking a deep look at exactly what the current strategy means for people right now - and what needs to be done to ensure that any Anti-Poverty Strategy meets the real needs of ordinary people and families. READ NEXT: Derry's Bloody Sunday Trust hosting a number of Derry Feile events The panel will also explore whats missing from the current proposals against the backdrop of the rising cost of living, insecure housing, and broken support systems - while highlighting the community-led solutions that are already making a difference to peoples lives. The discussion takes place amid a growing campaign - including a public petition launched by the Anti-Poverty Strategy Group - calling for the draft strategy to be withdrawn and replaced with something more ambitious, grounded and effective. The event is free and open to all, and you can register to attend here. Google is quietly rolling out a new look for the Gemini homepage on Android to offer a more polished and user-friendly interface. The new design has decluttered the space below the prompt bar by moving the features like Canvas and Deep Research into a new Tools bottom sheet. Users can now find these tools beside the familiar plus (+) button. Although its a small tweak, it does make the interface look clean and arranged. Additionally, Google has removed the brief descriptions that used to appear alongside the tool names. Whats more interesting, though, is a new guide aimed at helping users learn how to use Geminis tools. Further, Gemini dont give generic suggestions like Tell me what you can do anymore. Now, it opens with a friendly How can I help?. Apart from these, Geminis functionalities have been grouped under three clear sections: Write, Build, and Research. Tap Write, and youll get prompts like writing a thank-you note or summarising Catch-22 for kids. Build offers fun project ideas like creating a fireworks generator or a photography portfolio website, and Deep search offers deeper queries like planning a foodie trip to Japan or comparing family phone plans. Also read: Samsung Galaxy S25 FE colour options leak ahead of launch: Release timeline, specs, price and all other details Right now, the update hasnt rolled out widely. Its currently showing up in the Google app beta on select accounts, and some features like the revamped navigation drawer havent hit the stable version yet. This update comes just days after Google introduced Gemini Drops, a new page that highlights the latest features and experiments. Meanwhile, the Gemini app has crossed 450 million monthly active users globally, with India having the highest number of users. The AI tool is integrated with Pixel phones, Chrome, and Google Messages. Save my User ID and Password Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site. Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site. A plumber identified as the boss of a gun-running ring told a prospective customer he would throw in 10 pipe bombs as a free gift to seal a 75,000 cash deal to supply guns and ammunition smuggled by air from America, a sentencing court has heard. Mark McCourt (34), of Edenrieve, Newry, Co Down, appeared before the Special Criminal Court on Monday, after pleading guilty last week to firearms offences and participating in a criminal organisations efforts to import restricted weapons. A senior garda said in evidence to the three-judge court that he was fully satisfied that there was a criminal organisation in existence under the control and direction of McCourt whose function was the importation of firearms components from the USA to Ireland, and the reassembly of these restricted firearms for onward distribution to other criminal organisations. Detective Inspector Shane McCartan of the Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, who led an investigation into the gangs activities last year, said a firearms technician had been able to assemble 82 gun parts seized in a raid on a property in Co Louth last year into six assault rifles and a dozen pistols. Det. Insp. McCartan said McCourt had already been identified in connection with the suspected importation of firearms when the defendant was arrested for something else on 24 May 2024 and had his phone seized. READ NEXT: 'Do not eat' - Fresh listeria fears as salad pulled from shelves in Irish supermarkets Gardai were able to extract data from the phone shedding light on the activities of the smuggling ring in the preceding year, along with conversations with prospective customers in messages on Signal, WhatsApp and Snapchat, the witness said. Det. Insp. McCartan said McCourt and his co-accused both flew to Las Vegas, Nevada on three occasions in April and May 2023. On April that year, following their return from the trip, McCourt told one prospective customer -- who used the alias The Keeler we got sorted this evening and that it would take a few hours to stick them all together, the court was told. So get the cash ready lol, McCourt added, before telling The Keeler to get another phone as a burner. In further text exchanges with The Keeler, McCourt wrote: 75k cash is [the] best price and that he had another man there for them today. He said the receiver of the firearms would need a dry place like a hot press or that as a stash spot. If they get damp, they wont fire, thats why you see boys there and theyre misfiring, because the powder is damp, McCourt wrote. He then added: Tell them 75k and Ill throw in the 10 pipes for free. Det. Insp. McCartan said: Its my belief that refers to pipe bombs. He said one of a number of videos found on Mr McCourts phone, which were screened in court, had captured a serial number on an AR-15 rifle made by Anderson Defence traced to a sale on 10 February 2023 at a shop called Parumph Guns and Ammo near Las Vegas. It was purchased by the co-accused on 10 February 2023, the witness said. As the videos were screened for the court, Det Insp McCartan said that what was being shown were AR-15 assault rifles, military grade and their magazines, including one drum magazine which could hold upwards of 50 bullets. A significant quantity of loose rounds was also to be observed, he said. When a detective held up an example of one of the seized rifles in court, the detective inspector said: Judge, it should be noted that all of the firearms had their serial numbers bored off. Prosecuting counsel Simon Matthews BL, said that after another trip to Las Vegas in May 2023, a text from McCourts phone to a prospective buyer under the alias Vladimir Putin said: I can get an AR-15 shell drop a deer at 900 yards, no problem. Vladimir Putin then asked about buying a 7.62 sniper and about the source of the weapons. We ram raid the place across the water, McCourt replied, adding: Yeah mate, dont know, but I can get a price. In another exchange stored on the seized phone, another prospective customer under the alias Duff asked: Sweet bro, and if I need another AR [assault rifle] how soon can I get it? Thatll be next month but theyre definitely there to be got, came the reply by voice note, which was played to the court. Defence counsel Brendan Grehan SC said that while the videos and pictures were seized from his phone the prosecution was not able to state that Mr McCourt had recorded them. Det Gda McCartan said he and his team had a serious concern in late June and early July 2024 that the gang would import another load of weapons and sell them on. The court heard gardai commenced a surveillance operation and obtained warrants for a shed and lands at Blackstaff, Ardee Co Louth. McCourt and another member of the gang were arrested when Bureau detectives and armed officers from the Garda Emergency Response Unit (ERU) raided the premises on 19 July 2024. The 82 firearms parts were found all in the one suitcase in the shed, along with nearly 900 rounds of pistol and rifle ammunition found in a Dunnes Stores bag on a sofa there, the witness said. Det Insp McCartan told the court the defendant has some 42 previous convictions including assault causing harm, theft, and dangerous driving on the high end. He said McCourt and was jailed for three years, with 18 months suspended, on foot of a conviction for a criminal damage incident in which he had gone to the home address of an off-duty garda at 2.55am and rammed her car. He agreed with Mr Grehan that this period of offending was when the McCourt was aged between 19 and 22. Mr Grehan presented the court with letters from local businesses which had used his client as a plumbing subcontractor and stated that they found him courteous and professional. He said his client was the father of two children, and that his fiancee and her mother were standing by him. Asking for the maximum mitigation allowable, Mr Grehan said he had been asked to tender an apology on his behalf to the court and the State for getting involved in these matters, and also to his family and the shame hes brought to them for this. The State is to make further submissions on the gravity of the offending when the case is heard again on Thursday. However, Ms Justice Karen OConnor, presiding, said the court would not be in a position to finalise sentence until a later date. A man has been sentenced to death for the killing of Private Sean Rooney. The 24-year-old peacekeeper was killed while serving in Lebanon, when his UN peacekeeping convoy was attacked in December 2022. A Lebanese court has convicted the main defendant, Mohammad Ayyad, and sentenced him to death. Ayyad, who had previously admitted to firing a gun during the incident, remains at large and was not in court when the sentence was passed. Ayyad was convicted by a Military Tribunal in Beirut while two others were sentenced to two months and three months. Two others were fined and one was acquitted. Private Rooney was driving an armoured jeep when a UN peacekeeping convoy in which he was travelling came under attack in the south Lebanon town of Al-Aqbiya on December 14, 2022. Private Rooney, a Dundalk native who had lived in Newtowncunningham for the past decade, became the 48th Irish soldier to die while on a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. He was due to wed his fiance Holly McConnellogue in 2023. Private Rooney was laid to rest in Newtowncunningham with full military honours Trooper Shane Kearney, 22, was badly wounded and two others sustained minor injuries in the incident. Tanaiste and Minister for Defence, Simon Harris TD said: While noting the sentence handed down to the main defendant, I am disappointed and share the disappointment of Private Rooneys family at the lighter sentences imposed on a number of those convicted. Sean Rooney made the ultimate sacrifice in the noble pursuit of peace. This is a difficult time for his family and his colleagues, especially those who were injured that night. All our thoughts are with them at this time. Irish Defence Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy said: "We welcome the Tanaiste's statement on the conviction of those responsible for the death of our comrade, Private Sean Rooney, and the other members of the 121st Infantry Battalion injured in the attack on our peacekeepers on 14 December 2022. "Our thoughts are with the Rooney family and all those affected by the terrible incident." Lebanon has maintained a moratorium on the death penalty since 2004 and there have been no executions carried out in the last 21 years. It would be expected that the death penalty would be changed to a prison term for Ayyad were he to be captured. Read next: South Donegal quarry makes fresh bid to regularise operations Taoiseach Micheal Martin said: While I welcome the conviction of the main defendant, it is unsatisfactory that he is still at large. Many will feel the sentences passed down on the other defendants are far too lenient. The justice system in Lebanon, and the delay in progressing in this case, was deeply regrettable. Peacekeeping is the most noble cause of all, and the role of the peacekeeper must at all times be honoured and respected. "Where is the man sentenced to death for the killing of Dundalk soldier Private Sean Rooney?", is the question that Louth Sinn Fein TD Ruairi O Murchu is asking following the surprise news on Monday night that Mohammad Ayyad and a number of other men were convicted and sentenced in relation to the December 2022 death of the UN peacekeeper. The Louth TD said his first thoughts are with the family of Sean Rooney, whose grandparents live in Dundalk, and his friends and his Defence Forces colleagues. He said that while the verdicts in the court case in Lebanon are welcome, it is "absolutely ridiculous" that Ayyad, who received a death sentence which is expected to be commuted to a lengthy prison term, is still at large. In addition, he said the other defendants sentences, which ranged from monetary fines to a number of months in prison, were "extraordinarily lenient by any terms". Deputy O Murchu said: "First and foremost, we need to know where Ayyad is. He was released on bail following his first court appearances because of an apparent medical issue, but has not appeared since and is at large. Read also: Homeless numbers on the rise again in Louth region "While I welcome the fact that he has been found guilty and sentenced, no-one can be impressed with the situation that he is not actually in custody. The Dundalk TD said he would write to Tanaiste Simon Harris and Taoiseach Micheal Martin about the case, to urge them to use all avenues open to the State to ensure that Ayyad is captured and serves the sentence he was handed down. In addition, Deputy O Murchu said the Rooney family needs to know all the circumstances of how the 24-year-old peacekeeper was killed. He said there are a number of other investigations into the death, including at UN and Defence Forces level, that "need to provide information to the family, as well as providing opportunities to learn from what happened so that this never can happen again". Two retailers from Louth have been named as Top 100 Stores in Ireland by Retail Excellence, the largest retail industry representative organisation in Ireland. The Top 100 stores are part of the Elavon Retail Excellence Awards, which were established in 1997 to promote best practice and encourage high standards in the Irish retail industry and are now the largest and most prestigious of its kind in Ireland. The Awards will take place on Saturday, 15th November 2025 at the Lyrath Estate Hotel, Kilkenny. The two Louth stores named as Top 100 Stores in Ireland are Cove & Co in Dundalk, and Hickey's Pharmacy in Drogheda. As part of the Top 100 selection process, all store entrants were visited by a mystery shopper, with those exceeding service and standards criteria making it to the Top 100 stores. Read also: Louth public urged to have say on rates on empty business premises Jean McCabe, CEO of Retail Excellence, said: We are delighted to announce the top 100 retailers who are shaping the future of Irish retail in the Elavon Retail Excellence Awards 2025. These businesses exemplify retail excellence through outstanding service, performance, and innovation at a national level. "Their commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences and embracing new ideas continues to raise the standard for the entire industry, particularly at a time when retail is evolving rapidly in response to shifting consumer behaviours, economic pressures, and digital transformation. A man has been arrested after a Garda was attacked in Dublin city. The Garda Representative Association said a young member of the force suffered a quite terrifying and unprovoked attack and paid tribute to his colleagues for their bravery. The incident happened on Tuesday evening during a routine high-visibility patrol in the Capel Street area of Dublin 1, gardai said. Later the spokesperson said the injured member is recovering well at a hospital in Dublin and is expected to be discharged. Dreadful news that a Garda was brutally attacked on Capel Street earlier this evening while working to keep the people of Dublin safe. There must be zero tolerance for such disgraceful behaviour. I wish the Garda a speedy recovery and commend his colleagues for their quick Mary Lou McDonald (@MaryLouMcDonald) July 29, 2025 A male, aged in his 20s, who was arrested at the scene, is being held at a Garda station in the Dublin region. Assistant Commissioner for the Dublin Metropolitan Region, Paul Cleary, said such assaults will never be accepted or tolerated. I speak for all of An Garda Siochana in Dublin when I say that our thoughts are very much with our colleague who is recovering tonight, he said. This evenings unprovoked assault is indicative of what Gardai can face when they go out on duty to keep people safe. There is not always video footage or content shared online, but we experience it in our day-to-day duties and its a difficult aspect of the job. Assaults of this nature will never be acceptable or tolerated. Our colleague has our full, steadfast support and the range of welfare services will be extended to him when he feels up to it. He added: The suspect involved in this incident has been apprehended and is in Garda custody. I want to assure the public that there is no ongoing threat to their safety in the city. Gardai said welfare services have been offered and put in place for the injured member and his colleagues. The Garda Representative Association said a young probationary member was subject to a quite terrifying and unprovoked attack. They added that only for his bravery and that of his colleagues this incident could have resulted in far worse and unthinkable consequences. Our job is tough. Our members continually run towards situations that others must flee from. But there is never, ever, an excuse for being exposed to such acts of random violence, they said. The attacks being visited upon our members is shocking and we will never accept that being assaulted is being part of our job. More needs to be done to create a safer working environment where the risk of assault is reduced. Sinn Fein president Mary-Lou McDonald condemned the incident. Dreadful news that a garda was brutally attacked on Capel Street earlier this evening while working to keep the people of Dublin safe, she said in a post on the social media network X. There must be zero tolerance for such disgraceful behaviour. I wish the garda a speedy recovery and commend his colleagues for their quick response. Taoiseach Micheal Martin has officially cut the ribbon on a refurbishment of a 127-year-old Cork landmark which he described as embedded in the history of the city. Mr Martin was speaking at an event to launch a revitalisation of the ground floor of the Metropole Hotel, as well as its two ballrooms. The project, which took 12 months to complete, has transformed the lobby and reception area and the Merchant restaurant at the rear of the hotel. Mr Martin said the story of the Metropole was one with which most people in the city and county of Cork were very familiar. In many ways, the Metropole, because of its history, is embedded in Cork. Pictured (L/R): Sarah McGrath, Sandra Murphy (Group Brand & Communications Manager, Trigon Hotels) and Michael McGrath (EU Commissioner) Photo: Colm Lougheed Its story is a story of resilience, and that is a fundamental characteristic and trait of the hotel, its a story of longevity, adaptability, innovation, and inclusivity, Mr Martin said. That inclusivity, he added, manifested itself in the manner in which Aaron Mansworth and the hotels management team have maintained their policy of employing people who have additional needs. You have done it in such a natural way, your partnership with the Cope Foundation is a pleasure to behold, and we salute you, Aaron and the team here, for that particular reason, he added. Many famous people had stayed in the Metropole, the Taoiseach said, among them Ella Fitzgerald, Walt Disney, Gregory Peck, and Frank OConnor, and in another historical note the Great Exhibition of 1903 had brought many Armenian people to Cork, among them a young man named Harutum Batmazian. He set up a sweet stall at the Great Cork Exhibition and then set up a sweet stall here, the famous Hadji Bey or Hadji Baah, Cork kind of Cork-ised it very quickly in terms of pronunciation, Mr Martin said, to laughter. Pictured (L/R): Gill Myers and Tom Myers (Chief Superintendent) Photo: Colm Lougheed I remember as a child growing up, our parents talking about the Hadji Baahs. Its also in that year that Edward VII is reputed to have had his tea on the roof of the hotel when he visited Cork for the Great Exhibition. Pictured (L/R): Minister of State Jerry Buttimer TD and Aaron Mansworth (Managing Director, Trigon Hotels) Photo: Colm Lougheed Mr Martin said the Metropole Hotel had been an important part of Cork citys history and culture for 127 years and it continued to be a crucial part of the local business community. It gives me great pleasure to officially unveil the newly refurbished ground floor and I wish management and all the team the very best of luck for the future, he said. The refurbishment works in the Metropole have resulted in a brand new entrance, lobby and Merchant restaurant where breakfast will be served daily and can be booked for private or corporate events. Pictured (L/R): Louise McNamara (General Manager, Metropole Hotel) and Eoghan Murphy (Chair of the Cork Branch of the Irish Hotels Federation) Photo: Colm Lougheed Two of the historic hotels ballrooms, which are key features of the annual Cork Jazz Festival, have been renovated and are available for events, weddings and conferences throughout the year. Pictured (L/R): Carmel Lonergan (Director of Group Operations, Trigon Hotels), Sandra Murphy (Group Brand & Communications Manager, Trigon Hotels) and Sile Seoige. Photo: Colm Lougheed Louise McNamara, general manager of the hotel, said many of the hotels original features had been retained, but the redesign had created a more modern feel to welcome guests, those coming to stay, and locals coming in for food or drinks. We have lots of new summer packages on offer and we hope that all our customers will enjoy their time with us, she said. Id also like to thank all our team members for their work during the renovations and we look forward to an exciting time ahead for this amazing hotel. A Douglas native who is the head of news at the national broadcaster has been named Cork Person of the Month for July. Deirdre McCarthy was appointed RTEs managing director for news and current affairs in 2022, becoming the first woman to occupy the role. Serving as part of RTEs senior management team and sitting on the State broadcasters executive board, Ms McCarthy has responsibility for programmes such as Morning Ireland, Six One News, and Prime Time. An active champion of initiatives promoting media literacy and fostering informed public discourse, Ms McCarthy was instrumental in launching RTEs Clarity initiative, which aims to demystify complicated issues, debunk attempts to distort reality, detail how online discourse impacts democracy, and explain how RTE verifies its journalism. Ms McCarthy has held a number of positions in RTE across three decades, among them stints as a TV and radio journalist, contributing to RTEs flagship programmes such as Six One News and Nationwide. She also worked as editor of The Week In Politics, and political coverage editor of RTEs news and current affairs output. Speaking as he presented Ms McCarthy with the Cork Person of the Month award for July, awards founder and organiser Manus OCallaghan said she was a proud native of Douglas whose exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and insightful leadership had been instrumental in shaping RTEs news and current affairs output. Deirdres appointment as managing director of news and current affairs at RTE is a tremendous achievement, honour and responsibility, he said. In a world where Fake News has entered the lexicon, trust in who supplies our news is all important, and RTE News under Deirdres guidance tops all the surveys which measure trust in media organisations. Ms McCarthys name will now be put forward for consideration as Cork Person of the Year, alongside the other monthly award recipients, at the annual gala awards lunch, which will be held in January 2026. HSE South West is cautioning that the emergency department at CUH is currently experiencing very high levels of activity. The public are being advised to consider all care options - including GPs, pharmacists and SouthDoc out-of-hours services. When there is a large volume of ED attendances, patients are prioritised in terms of clinical need and wait times for non-urgent care can be lengthy, HSE South West has said. Patients arriving to the ED will be clinically assessed and seen in order or priority, so those with non-urgent presentations will be waiting a long time and are advised to seek alternative treatments, they added. HSE South West has also said that GPs can also access Urgent Virtual Care (UVC), a new regional telehealth service which allows GPs and paramedics to consult directly by phone, or by video call, with a senior medical decision-maker in emergency medicine or geriatric medicine. They can advise if you need to attend the ED. People who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend EDs where they will be prioritised. HSE integrated area manager for Cork South and West Priscilla Lynch said: Our priority is to protect access to emergency care for those who need it most. Were asking the public to help us by seeking treatment through other trusted services such as GPs, SouthDoc, pharmacists, and their local injury unit. The new Urgent Virtual Care service is also a vital tool to help GPs assess patients and guide them to the right pathway. Chief executive officer, Cork University Hospital Jennifer Kearney said: We are currently experiencing a surge in activity at CUHs emergency department, and its vital we reserve our resources for patients with the most critical needs. "I urge everyone to pause and consider: Is the ED the right place for my care? There are excellent alternatives available - including local GPs, pharmacies, SouthDoc, and injury units that can offer prompt and appropriate support. Know your options if you need medical treatment: Self-care Have a well-stocked medicine cabinet to help with colds and sore throats Pharmacy Ask your pharmacist for advice on common minor illnesses GP Surgery Make an appointment with your GP if youre feeling unwell Local Injury Unit For minor injuries, broken bones and burns. See www.hse.ie/injuryunits for more information Out-of-Hours GP if your GP clinic is closed, call SouthDoc on 0818 355 999 ED or 999/112 For emergencies, please visit your nearest ED Labour councillor Peter Horgan has called on the European Union to allow sun-protection products in Ireland to be Vat free. It comes as Cork City Council, in partnership with the HSE Southwest and the National Cancer Control Programme, recently launched a public health initiative to provide free sunscreen dispensers in four city parks. Mr Horgan raised the matter with his Labour colleague, TD Marie Sherlock, who is the partys health spokesperson, but he explained that Ms Sherlock was told by government that they could not intervene. Revenue advised that the Vat rating of goods and services is subject to the requirements of the EU Vat directive, with which Irish law is obliged to comply. The directive provides that all goods and services are liable to Vat at the standard rate, unless they fall within certain listed categories to which member states may apply a lower rate. Sunscreens and sun-protection-factor products are not included in the categories of goods and services to which the EU Vat directive allows a lower rate to be applied, and so they are liable to Vat at the standard rate. There is no discretion under the directive for Ireland to apply a reduced rate to the supply of sunscreens and sun-protection products, Ms Sherlock was told. Mr Horgan will be seeking European engagement on the matter, as he does not believe Irish consumers should be subject to such a levy on a public health product. He said: The Irish Cancer Society has highlighted repeatedly that seven in 10 people say sunscreen is too expensive and one in 10 say they dont wear it because they cant afford it. I intend to seek European action on this, through one of my motions in September that Cork City Council will write to the College of European Commissioners and European Vat committee to specifically seek the inclusion of SPF products in the reduced rate for member states and to utilise Ireland as a pilot example. There are actions we can take, rather than shrugging because one section of Europe has failed to take action, so far, on this public health issue. Reports that the reintroduction of the 9% Vat rate for the food sector may be delayed are deeply concerning, the Cork Business Association has said. A 867.7m figure being cited as the cost to the Exchequer of reducing the 13.5% Vat rate covers a wide array of businesses, but it is food businesses that need the most support a cost closer to 560m it said. CBA president Dave OBrien said cafes, bars, and restaurants in particular are already under enormous pressure. Rising input costs, staff shortages, upcoming commercial rates hikes, and ongoing rate reviews are hitting these small businesses hard many of which are the backbone of our towns and cities, he said. The country is still seeing between 30 to 40 restaurant closures every month. Without immediate support, more will follow. Accelerate According to Sean McCarthy, owner of Tequila Jacks and Paddy The Farmers in Cork city, a delay in reducing Vat would only accelerate this trend. The non-reduction of the Vat rate for pubs serving food will be another nail in the coffin for people in the hospitality industry, he said. On average, 114 pubs are closing nationwide year on year and the numbers of pubs left open have dropped by 24% since 2005. We urge the Government to reconsider their current position on the Vat issue. Mr OBrien said that Government support for these businesses is needed to offset losses from elsewhere. Our tourism sector depends on a vibrant and thriving hospitality offering its part of what makes Ireland so attractive to international visitors, he said. However, due to global economic trends and current monetary policy in the US, we are already seeing a slowdown in American tourists a key market for Ireland. Tourism relies heavily on hospitality and these businesses need to survive to ensure Ireland remains attractive in enticing tourists here. Act now The CBA is urging the Government to act now. The time to support our SMEs is not later this year, it is now. A targeted Vat reduction for the food sector would help preserve jobs, sustain local economies, and ensure our cities and towns remain welcoming and alive with hospitality, it said. Ger Kiely of the Old Oak, one of the citys largest pub and music venues, added: The Government needs to look closely at the entire hospitality sector, from pubs to restaurants, cafes, and live music venues, while there is still something left to preserve and nurture. Its not just the tax burden its all the other costs and regulatory imposition on small businesses. The 68-year-old man who died in a workplace accident in Macroom, Co Cork, yesterday has been named locally as Pat Corcoran. The accident occurred yesterday afternoon at a family-owned packaging and pallet company in Clondrohid village, four miles north of Macroom. The emergency services were called to the scene. Mr Corcoran was transferred to Cork University Hospital (CUH) where he was pronounced dead. The coroner has been notified and a postmortem examination will be completed at CUH. An inquest will take place at a later date. The Garda Press Office confirmed that gardai and emergency services attended at the scene. The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has confirmed that a death occurred at a business premises in Co Cork. The HSA is aware of the fatal incident and has launched an investigation. As such, no further information is available at this time, it said. Cork North West Fianna Fail TD Aindrias Moynihan has described the death of the well respected and liked local man as devastating news for the area. I understand that he [Pat] was retired but used to go back around a day a week, said Mr Moynihan. Id say [he lived] around a mile away from it [his place of work]. All the crew would know each other well. It is a tight-knit work force. They are a well established company and would be known as a great employer locally. It is heartbreaking for everyone involved. It is very tough for his work colleagues, family and anyone who knows him. It is understood that the family of Mr Corcoran would like privacy at this most distressing time. Funeral arrangements will be finalised in the coming days. (Photo: . REUTERS/Kenny Katombe)Soldiers from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) take part in a parade to mark the country's Independence Day through a street in eastern city of Goma June 30, 2014. ISIS, or the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, has claimed responsibility for a shocking assault on churchgoers at a Catholic church in the Democratic Republic of Congo on July 27. The brutal attack resulted in the death of at least 43 individuals, including 19 women, 15 men, and nine children, according to the Daily Express. The faithful were participating in an evening vigil at a church in Komanda, located in the northeastern part of the central African country, one of Africa's biggest. The assailants wielded machetes and firearms, creating havoc and mercilessly killing defenseless churchgoers, according to the report. US President Donald Trump has in recent times lauded attacks on ISIS in the fight against terror. Citing an Associated Press report, the Catholic Thing reported on July 29 that ISIS-backed fighters attacked the Catholic church in eastern Congo, killing at least 34 people, according to a local civil society leader. Dieudonne Duranthabo. The assailants set ablaze several homes and stores, with numerous people still missing after the terrifying incident. "The rebels primarily targeted Christians who were spending the night in the Catholic church," Christophe Munyanderu, a human rights activist who was present at the scene, reported to Al Jazeera, according to The Express. "Regrettably, these individuals were murdered with machetes or bullets." An article on the Amaq Agency's website stated that Islamic State fighters executed the horrifying massacre. "Security sources informed Amaq Agency that Islamic State fighters attacked a church in the town of Komanda in the Irumu territory of Ituri province," they penned. The Amaq News Agency, which is linked with ISIS and is frequently the "first point of publication for claims of responsibility" for terrorist attacks by the Islamists, reported the attack. The assault had previously been attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), which is affiliated with ISIS. The ADF originated in Uganda in the 1990s, accusing the government of the time of persecuting Muslims. The militia has now entrenched itself in the DR Congo, its neighbor, where it regularly launches attacks on civilians of any faith, extending those attacks into Uganda. The ADF has, in turn, become part of the Islamic State's Central African Province, which also embraces a group in further south in Mozambique, which neighbors South Africa. In 2021, DR Congo invited Ugandan troops to enter the country to assist in combating the ADF. The UN peacekeeping mission - Monusco - denounced the attack, labeling it a blatant "violation of all human rights standards and international humanitarian law." Google is updating AI Mode on desktop this week with the ability to process images, so you can ask it detailed questions about the pictures like you already can on mobile. In the coming weeks, the company is also adding support for PDF uploads on desktop, which could help you digest lengthy course or work materials. You can ask AI Mode to summarize the documents for you and ask follow-up questions that it will then answer by cross-referencing the materials you uploaded with information available on the web. Google says AI Mode's responses will also include links to its references that you can visit in order to dig deeper. AI Mode will support additional file types for upload, including ones straight from your Google Drive, in the coming months as well. In addition to PDF upload support, Google is also rolling out a new Canvas feature that you can access if you're enrolled in the AI Mode Labs experiment in the US. You can use Canvas to consolidate all relevant information about a specific topic or for a specific purpose in a side panel that updates as you ask AI Mode more follow-up questions. If you're traveling, for instance, you can ask AI Mode to make you an itinerary and click the Create Canvas button. You'll be able to keep refining the itinerary with more questions, and you can always leave it alone for a while and come back to it later. AI Mode's Search Live is also getting video input on mobile this week, a feature Google announced at I/O 2025, after voice input arrived in June. To be able to access video input, you'll have to open Lens in the Google app and tap the Live icon before asking questions on what the camera sees. When Google revealed the feature during its annual developers' event, it said you could point the camera at a math problem, for example, and ask Search to help you solve it or to explain a concept you're having trouble understanding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, with Lens in Chrome, you'll be able to ask AI Mode what's on your desktop screen. The company will roll out an "Ask Google about this page" dropdown option in the address bar "soon." When you click on it, AI Mode will create an overview with key information on what's being shown on your screen on the side panel, whether it's a web page or a PDF. That side panel will also contain a new "Dive Deeper" button that gives you a way to ask AI Mode specific questions about you've selected on your screen with Lens on desktop. Updated August 1, 2025 5:45AM ET: This story has been updated to add information on "Dive Deeper." Update, July 29 2025, 12:29PM ET: This story has been updated, as Google shared after the article was published that the image and PDF upload features will be available wherever AI Mode is available, not just in the US. That means those uploads will come to the US, India and the UK. Opera is filing an antitrust complaint against Microsoft in Brazil, alleging it creates an unfair environment for alternate browsers to compete with Edge. The Norway-based company claims Microsoft's deals to make Edge the exclusive pre-installed browser on Windows machines creates an unfair environment for alternate browsers to compete. Opera also argued that Microsoft uses design tactics and dark patterns to further discourage people from downloading and using rival products. It is asking Brazil's Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) to pursue remedies against Microsoft. "Microsoft thwarts browser competition on Windows at every turn. First, browsers like Opera are locked out of important pre-installation opportunities," Aaron McParlan, general counsel for Opera, said in a statement. "And then Microsoft frustrates users' ability to download and use alternative browsers." This isn't the first time these two companies have clashed. Opera sued Microsoft in the EU all the way back in 2007 with a similar argument that bundling Internet Explorer was anticompetitive. Last year, it also argued that Microsoft should have gatekeeper designation for the Edge browser under the EU's Digital Markets Act; that case against the European Commission is ongoing. Update, July 30, 2025, 3:05PM ET: Corrected the status of Opera's case against the European Commission. Chinese, S. Korean FMs hold phone talks on bilateral ties Xinhua) 13:40, July 29, 2025 BEIJING, July 28 (Xinhua) -- China and South Korea should deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and achieve common development, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Monday in a phone call with his South Korean counterpart, Cho Hyun. China and South Korea are important neighbors and cooperation partners, and upholding good neighborliness serves common interests of the two peoples, said Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. After the inauguration of the new South Korean government, the two heads of state held a phone call, bringing fresh positive dynamics to bilateral ties and charting the course for joint future work, Wang said in the call made at the request of the South Korean side. He emphasized that China and South Korea should be genuine strategic cooperative partners and work together to elevate bilateral relations to higher levels. For that goal, the two sides should maintain policy stability, Wang said, adding that China has always attached great importance to developing cooperation with South Korea, and has maintained a consistent and stable policy toward South Korea. Wang expressed hope that South Korea will likewise ensure that its China policy is stable, sustainable and predictable without vacillation. The two countries should also uphold independence and autonomy. China-South Korea relations are based on shared interests and have brought benefits to the two peoples. They are not targeted at any third party, nor should they be constrained by any third party, said Wang. In addition, he noted that China and South Korea should enhance mutual benefits. China and South Korea share close economic ties and deeply integrated industrial and supply chains. As beneficiaries of multilateralism and free trade, China and South Korea should jointly oppose "decoupling" and disruptions to supply chains, and work together to maintain the stability and smooth flow of global industrial and supply chains, Wang stressed. He also said China supports South Korea in hosting the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in the second half of this year. For his part, Cho said South Korea attaches great significance to relations with China and looks forward to more high-level exchanges between the two countries, so as to promote greater development of the two countries' strategic cooperative partnership in the future. Noting that South Korea and China enjoy close economic and trade relations and have established a good cooperation model, Cho said South Korea is ready to actively advance bilateral free trade negotiations and deepen economic and trade cooperation between the two countries. South Korea looks forward to strengthening communication and coordination with China, facing up to history, and jointly maintaining regional peace and stability, he said. The two sides also exchanged views on coordination and cooperation in multilateral areas, among other issues. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) (Informacion remitida por la empresa firmante) New preliminary research supported by Kinder at the Institute for the Science of Early Years (ISEY) at the University of East London explores how play ignites language skills, builds emotional connection, and bridges family disconnect To underpin its global Value of Play initiative, Kinder has convened a panel of leading academic and clinical experts to research how play supports active learning and development LUXEMBOURG, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In countries across the world, as parents will be preparing for the school holidays ahead, Kinder is releasing findings of new preliminary research conducted by the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London (UEL), which reveals the extraordinary power of shared play in strengthening family bonds. Supported by Kinder, one of the most beloved Ferrero brands, this study used state-of-the-art wearable technology worn by children and family members to capture real-time emotional and physical dynamics during in-home play sessions. The research explores how simple moments of play spark joy, encourage language, reduce stress and nurture emotional wellbeing. "Our early studies reveal a striking pattern: many families often share the same physical space, but mentally they are miles apart - one child immersed in a video game, another focused on a toy, and a third lost in drawing. While solitary play has important benefits for children's independence and creativity, our research shows how shared play can weave families into a unified dynamic. Through shared play, we see family relationships come alive." said Sam Wass, Director of the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London, "Our research is looking at the ways play encourages children to form deeper bonds with their siblings and parents, leading to more connected speech patterns and movement patterns within families. Even more remarkable, our research suggests that play might affect the synchronization of families' moods and stress levels, highlighting play's powerful role in emotional connection and collective well-being. I'm looking forward to seeing how Kinder's ongoing research with the Value of Play panel will continue to unearth new insights and areas for exploration." These initial results pave the way for further analysis by researchers at the University of East London and Kinder. Their continued work will explore how joint play influences children's long-term emotional well-being and stress regulation by strengthening inter-connectedness within families. Kinder Value of Play panel: ongoing global research A panel of leading academic and clinical experts has been established to look into the benefits of play in childhood development. For the past year, four internationally recognised experts have been conducting independent research studies on how spontaneous and joyful play contributes to children's growth with a particular emphasis on emotional and social development, as well as imagination. The Value of Play panellists are: Sam Wass , Director of the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London , Director of the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of Dr Elizabeth Kilbey , Consultant in Clinical Psychology , Consultant in Clinical Psychology Victoria Murphy , Professor of Applied Linguistics and Director of Department of Education at the University of Oxford , Professor of Applied Linguistics and Director of Department of Education at the Lynn Ang, Professor of Early Childhood Education, University College London By promoting the importance of play, Kinder aims to foster a culture where play is valued and prioritised. "At Kinder, we aim at contributing to a society that values time spent in play. We are captivated by the transformative power of play, its ability to foster children's development joyfully and its role in strengthening family bonds. This new global initiative fills me with pride, as it deepens Kinder's collaboration with experts within this field" said Emiliano Laricchiuta, Global President of Kinder at Ferrero Group. "Together, we will continue to delve into the profound benefits of play on early childhood development. The research insights will be available for parents and families and will also guide the development of our toys and play experiences to be engaging and fun but also rooted in scientific insights. This way, both children and parents can enjoy and benefit from play in ways that are backed by research." Additional research findings from the expert panel will be released later in 2025 and into 2026 and made available on Kinder.com. Upcoming research includes: The Power of Play (PoP) Study: Understanding the Role and Value of Play in Supporting Early Learning and Development, a systematic review and qualitative research conducted by University College London, Institute of Education. The research explores how play especially loose-part play and play interactions support early learning, with a focus on social and emotional development. Understanding the Role and Value of Play in Supporting Early Learning and Development, a systematic review and qualitative research conducted by University College London, Institute of Education. The research explores how play especially loose-part play and play interactions support early learning, with a focus on social and emotional development. Young children's learning through digital technology, including the role of AI Insights from the LiFT project (Learning for Families Through Technology). The partnership between Ferrero International, Gameloft and the Department of Education at the University of Oxford is now in its sixth year, using Kinder's Applaydu platform as a research tool to explore how digital technology and mobile applications can support children's learning with a focus on creativity and literacy. For more information please click here. Notes to Editors About Ferrero Ferrero began its journey as a pastry shop in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world's largest sweet-packaged food companies, with much loved brands sold in more than 170 countries. The Ferrero Group brings joy to people around the world with much-loved products including Nutella, Kinder, Tic Tac, and Ferrero Rocher. About 47,000 employees are passionate about helping people celebrate life's special moments. The Ferrero Group's family culture, now in its third generation, is based on dedication to quality and excellence, heritage and a commitment to the planet and communities in which we operate. To receive the latest news and stories, subscribe to our newsletter here. For more information, please visit www.ferrero.com About Kinder Chocolate The Kinder brand was founded in 1968 and is inspired by bringing small but special moments to everyday life. Kinder creates innovative products made for sharing, family and togetherness across all ages. Kinder products include Kinder Surprise, Kinder Chocolate and Kinder Bueno. About ISEY (The Institute for the Science of Early Years)The Institute for the Science of Early Years (ISEY) is based in East London, in one of the most socio-demographically diverse regions in the world. We have developed innovative, world-leading methods to study how early environments shape early development. We use these insights to provide consultancy, training, and policy advice. About the University of East London (UEL)Founded in 1898, the University of East London is a careers-led university at the heart of London's Docklands, preparing students for the jobs of the future. UEL is committed to driving positive change in its local and global communities. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/kinder-and-university-of-east-london-explore-how-shared-play-strengthens-emotional-bonds-in-families-302515110.html You Might Also Like The shooting in Midtown happened at the end of the workday, with the gunman traveling cross country to get to New York. The officer killed was Didarul Islam, 36, an immigrant from Bangladesh who had served as a police officer in New York City for 3 1/2 years. A bulk transfer of some Montanans private information from the state judiciary to the legislative branchs audit division has alarmed Montana district court clerks, who say they are worried about individual privacy rights. The clerks, keepers of confidential information ranging from psychological profiles of juveniles to parenting plans and contact information for victims of sexual assault, are objecting to giving the Legislative Audit Division full access to the Montana district courts system called FullCourt Enterprise. The system includes sealed records from the states district courts everything from involuntary commitments to details about foster care cases and sensitive criminal information. The Montana Association of Clerks of District Court are very concerned that Montana citizens protected, private information may be released, and we are weighing our options, Carly Anderson, chair of the association, said in an email Thursday to Montana Free Press. The information is being released to the auditors office by the Office of the Court Administrator, run by Dave McAlpin, in an agreement with the legislative auditor. Calls placed to McAlpins office Thursday and Friday were unreturned. The audit division is conducting a performance audit of district court caseloads. The agreement, provided to MTFP by the legislative auditor, cites the Legislative Audit Divisions legally defined ability to inspect books, accounts, activities and records, confidential or otherwise, of a state agency. The Legislative Audit Division has agreed not to disclose the information, according to the document provided to MTFP. By definition, the Montana Office of the Court Administrator provides basic management of the judicial branch by overseeing the budget, maintaining information technology systems and coordinating programs like youth court and judicial education, while also overseeing staffing. The job includes publishing court statistics. McAlpin is a former Missoula Democratic legislator and past director of the Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA, which advocates in court for the best interests of abused children. State law governing confidential court information doesnt imagine a scenario in which sealed records are released without the decision to do so being made by a judge, and the release of records to the audit division concerns Richland County Attorney Tom Halvorson. Halvorson, a Republican, told MTFP Wednesday that the publics privacy is being invaded on a mass scale under the agreement struck by McAlpin and the Legislative Audit Division. The attorney provided an opinion he wrote after Richland County District Court Clerk Janice Klempel objected to turning over records. Instead of submitting the issue to the courts, which would be normal, the Court Administrator has brushed off the clerks and the Constitution in its autocratic decision to divulge the data, Halvorson wrote. This isnt the first time that the legislative auditors access to the records has stirred controversy. In 2023, the Montana Legislature attempted to empower its auditor to determine when private information would be redacted, while also making it a crime, punishable by up to six months in jail, for government officials to not produce records. Senate Bill 73 passed the Legislature by a wide margin. But Gov. Greg Gianforte vetoed the bill, arguing that it shouldnt be up to an unelected bureaucrat to determine if and when an individuals private information is protected. Although district court clerks are weighing their options, no legal challenge has been filed. McAlpin indicated to the LAD that the FullCourt Enterprise would be made available after business hours July 24. Glyn Roberts, former president of the Farmers Union of Wales (FUW), has been honoured with one of the unions highest accolades in recognition of his lifelong dedication to Welsh farming. Mr Roberts, who served as FUW president from 2015 until 2023, was praised for his unwavering commitment to the agricultural sector during some of its most turbulent years. His leadership spanned key events such as the Brexit referendum and subsequent negotiations, the reshaping of Welsh agricultural policy, and the unprecedented challenges brought by the Covid pandemic. Glyn Roberts is a tireless champion for the interests of Welsh agriculture, and has shown unwavering commitment towards the Farmers Union of Wales all throughout his life, said current FUW President Ian Rickman, who presented the award at the Royal Welsh Show. As his deputy president, I was fortunate enough to see first hand his ability and passion in navigating complex challenges; tirelessly working to secure a prosperous future for farmers across Wales, he continued. Throughout his presidency, Glyn faced monumental challenges from Brexit and the fall-out that followed to the unprecedented uncertainties of the Covid pandemic. "However, Glyns leadership, good humour and unwavering dedication to Wales rural communities shone throughout, securing key wins for Welsh farmers throughout his presidency. A first-generation sheep and beef farmer, Mr Roberts farming journey began in 1976, when he undertook a full-time course at Glynllifon Agricultural College. After working as a shepherd at Dylasau Uchaf, Padog, he successfully secured the tenancy of Ynys Wen, Ysbyty Ifan a 100-acre upland farm in 1977. In 1983, he became tenant of the 350-acre National Trust-owned Dylasau Uchaf, where he continues to farm alongside his wife Eleri. Together, they raised five children on the farm, with daughter Beca now a partner in the business. Mr Roberts involvement with the FUW stretches back decades. He served as FUW Caernarfonshire Chairman between 1999 and 2002, and sat on the unions Finance and Organisation Committee between 2003 and 2004. Following his presidency, he was appointed a life member of the organisation. Beyond his FUW responsibilities, Mr Roberts has held numerous public roles, including serving as a non-executive director at Hybu Cig Cymru by Welsh government appointment. He was also recognised by the Gorsedd of Bards at the 2019 National Eisteddfod in Dyffryn Conwy for his contributions to Welsh rural life. Toyota Hilux thefts have exploded by nearly 550% in just one year, exposing a sharp shift in UK vehicle crime and sending alarm bells ringing for farmers and landowners. New research from QuestGates, a UK loss adjusting and claims solutions group, reveals a dramatic surge in thefts of newer vehicles particularly the Toyota Hilux pickup underscoring evolving tactics among vehicle criminals. While overall vehicle theft in the UK fell by 4.5% last year, thefts of cars less than three years old rose by 6.6%, based on an analysis of DVLA data comparing 2023 and 2024. The standout statistic is a staggering 548.9% increase in thefts of Toyota Hilux pickups under three years old, making it the most stolen newer model in the UK. In contrast, Land Rover models have seen a sharp decline in thefts. The Range Rover Evoque saw a 77% drop in thefts under three years old, removing the brand from the top 10 stolen vehicles list a success attributed to recent security upgrades by Jaguar Land Rover (JLR). Philip Swift, technical director motor at QuestGates, advised affected owners, such as farmers and landowners, to take immediate steps to secure their vehicles. He said: The increased targeting of the Toyota Hilux reflects changing criminal behaviour and the perceived value of and demand for specific models. JLR deserve huge credit for security upgrades which are apparently highly effective in deterring the professional criminals who target new cars. "Fewer thefts mean fewer claims, lower costs and better outcomes for motor insurance policyholders. The regional data highlights significant rises in thefts of less than three-year-old vehicles in Bedfordshire, Essex and Warwickshire, while Greater Manchester recorded a 20% reduction. QuestGates detailed analysis draws on full-year DVLA Lost or Stolen (LoS) data, focusing on vehicles less than three years old at the time of theft to ensure a like-for-like comparison. Tributes have been paid to 18-year-old young farmer Sally Allen, who tragically lost her life in a road traffic collision following a trip to the Royal Welsh Show. The fatal incident happened on 23 July on the A40 at Broadoak, between Carmarthen and Llandeilo, involving a red Renault Clio and a blue Audi Q5. Police say they are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and are appealing for witnesses. A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: Anyone who was travelling along the A40 at Broadoak between Carmarthen and Llandeilo around 8am on Wednesday 23 July and has dash camera footage is urged to contact us. Sally, from Cresswell Quay, Kilgetty, has been remembered by her family as someone who "lit up any room she entered with her smile and personality". Describing her as endlessly caring, unintentionally hilarious, and the most amazing supportive and joyful person, her loved ones spoke of the profound impact she had on everyone who knew her. In only 18 years of her life, she touched the hearts of so many people within her community, her school, her work and social life, her family said. She was a girl who found happiness in attending Young Farmers Club, including Martletwy YFC. She enjoyed horse riding and her day-to-day life at home in Cresswell Quay. They added: Since her death it has become apparent how much Sally was loved and cherished. Her sudden absence leaves an unfillable space in the lives of so many people that knew and loved her. Those with information can contact Dyfed-Powys Police online or by calling 101, quoting reference 075 of 23 July. Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111. Most US trading partners that do not negotiate separate trade agreements would soon face tariffs of 15-20 per cent on their exports to the United States, President Donald Trump yesterday said. The US administration will notify some 200 countries soon of their new world tariff rate, he told reporters in Turnberry, Scotland. Most US trading partners that do not negotiate separate trade agreements would soon face tariffs of 15-20 per cent on their exports to the US, President Donald Trump has said. The US administration will notify some 200 countries soon of their new 'world tariff' rate, he told reporters in Turnberry, Scotland. He has already announced higher tariff rates of up to 50 per cent on some countries like Brazil. "We're going to be setting a tariff for essentially, the rest of the world," Trump was quoted as saying by global newswires. "And that's what they're going to pay if they want to do business in the United States. Because you can't sit down and make 200 deals." Trump has already announced higher tariff rates of up to 50 per cent on some countries, including Brazil. He recently clinched a trade deal with the European Union that includes a 15-per cent tariff on most EU goods, $600 billion worth investments in the United States by European firms and $750 billion in energy purchases over the next three years. Before that, the US government signed a $550-billion deal with Japan along with smaller agreements with the United Kingdom, Indonesia and Vietnam. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS) Aamir Khan is gearing up to release his new movie, Sitaare Zameen Par, on YouTube in a pay-per-view model. The actor is ditching streaming platforms and their subscription services to seemingly make his movies more accessible to his fans. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Filmfare (@filmfare) Aamir recently announced that the movie will release on his YouTube channel Aamir Khan Talkies on August 1, 2025 but one can watch it on rent for Rs 100 or 1.15 dollars. The movie will have localised pricing in 38 countries including the USA, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany and Singapore. The actor shared, Roughly 15 years ago, I realized that our most successful films, like 3 Idiots or Dangal, the statistic of people watching in theaters is about two to three percent of the population. So the next thought that came to me is, how do we reach out to the remaining 97 to 98 percent? I want to make this facility accessible to every Indian. I've come to realize that the pay-per-view model, which has been in use so far, is something Id like to continue, this time on YouTube." He added, With that intention, I launched Aamir Khan Talkies a few months ago. There's already a lot of content available on the channel for you to explore. During the press event, he further said, You will be able to see all my films, all Aamir Khan Productions movies. These include Lagaan, Dangal, Sitaare Zameen Par. On August 1, you will only be able to watch Sitaare Zameen Par. After one or two weeks, we will add more films. My fathers films will also be available on Aamir Khan Talkies. I also want to put my show Satyamev Jayate on Aamir Khan Talkies for free. I dont want to charge for it. Aamir noted that the channel will have free content, video-on-demand content and pay-per-view content. The actor also opened up about making Aamir Khan Productions a platform for new talent. He emphasised on supporting films by new filmmakers through Aamir Khan Talkies. Also Read: Aamir Khan, Junaid Khan arrive at Salman Khans home ahead of Ira Khan, Nupur Shikhares wedding Sara Ali Khan is once again making headlines, but this time its not about her films. The actress, whos been keeping things relatively low key since her last release, was recently spotted at a Gurudwara in Mumbai. While she looked calm and elegant in a simple white suit, what truly got people talking was the person she left with. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bollywood pap king (@bollywoodpapking) In a video shared by the paparazzi, Sara is seen quietly exiting the Gurudwara, and just a few moments later, Arjun Pratap Bajwa, rumoured to be her boyfriend, joins her and they both leave in the same car. Though they didnt appear together on camera, fans were quick to pick up on their coordinated exit, flooding social media with heart emojis and tagging them as a cute jodi. Some, however, also pointed out how overwhelming the constant media glare can be for celebrities. The rumours around Sara and Arjun arent new. Whispers of their relationship first began back in October 2024 when they were seen at Kedarnath, a place that holds special meaning for Sara. Later in December, both shared photos from what fans believe was a joint trip to Rajasthan. Even though the pictures were posted separately, a candid shot of the two together had already gone viral, further fuelling speculation. On the professional front, Sara was last seen in Anurag Basus Metro In Dino where she starred alongside Aditya Roy Kapur, Ali Fazal and others. The film, known for its emotional depth and storytelling, marked another step forward in her evolving career. Arjun Pratap Bajwa, now catching everyones attention, is a model and actor who appeared in Band of Maharajas. He also comes from a prominent background as the son of politician Fateh Jang Singh Bajwa. Apart from acting, he is an MMA fighter and has previously worked behind the scenes in Bollywood on projects like Singh is Bliing. Also Read: Saif Ali Khan, Sara Ali Khan and Ibrahim Ali Khan were clicked spending quality time in the city Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 28, 2025) - Sierra Madre Gold and Silver Ltd. (TSXV: SM) (OTCQX: SMDRF) ("Sierra Madre" or the "Company") announces that, pursuant to its Stock Option Plan, it has granted stock options to employees of La Guitarra Compania Minera, S.A. de C.V., certain directors, management and consultants of the Company, to purchase an aggregate of 2,750,000 common shares of the Company at the price of $0.73 per share for a period of five years from the grant date. The Options shall be granted under and subject to the terms and conditions of the Company's stock option plan (the "Plan") and subject to the rules and policies of the Exchange. 40,000 of the options were granted to the Company's investor relations consultant, Adelaide Capital and will vest three months after the date of the grant; six months after the date of the grant; nine months after the date of the grant and twelve months after the date of the grant. The remaining options will vest 1/3 immediately as of the date of grant; 1/3 six months after the date of the grant; and 1/3 12 months after the date of the grant. This stock option grant is subject to acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange. About Sierra Madre Sierra Madre Gold and Silver Ltd. (TSXV: SM) (OTCQX: SMDRF) is a precious metals development and exploration company focused on the Guitarra mine in the Temascaltepec mining district, Mexico, and the exploration and development of its Tepic property in Nayarit, Mexico. The Guitarra mine is a permitted underground mine, which includes a 500 t/d processing facility that operated until mid-2018 and restarted commercial production in January 2025. The +2,600 ha Tepic Project hosts low-sulphidation epithermal gold and silver mineralization with an existing historic resource. Sierra Madre's management team has played key roles in managing the exploration and development of silver and gold mineral reserves and mineral resources. Sierra Madre's team of professionals has collectively raised over $1 billion for mining companies. On behalf of the board of directors of Sierra Madre Gold and Silver Ltd., Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260450 SOURCE: Sierra Madre Gold & Silver ADELAIDE, AU / ACCESS Newswire / July 28, 2025 / Barton Gold Holdings Limited (ASX:BGD)(FRA:BGD3)(OTCQB:BGDFF) ( Barton or Company ) advises that the Quarterly Activities and Cashflow Report for the quarter ended 30 June 2025 has been released to the market. These reports can be accessed directly via the following links: Quarterly Activities Report Quarterly Cashflow Report Authorised by the Managing Director of Barton Gold Holdings Limited. For further information, please contact: Alexander Scanlon Managing Director a.scanlon@bartongold.com.au +61 425 226 649 Jade Cook Company Secretary cosec@bartongold.com.au +61 8 9322 1587 About Barton Gold Barton Gold is an ASX, OTCQB and Frankfurt Stock Exchange listed Australian gold developer targeting future gold production of 150,000ozpa with 2.1Moz Au & 3.1Moz Ag JORC Mineral Resources (78.9Mt @ 0.85 g/t Au), brownfield mines, and 100% ownership of the region's only gold mill in the renowned Gawler Craton of South Australia.* Challenger Gold Project 223koz Au + fully permitted Central Gawler Mill ( CGM ) Tarcoola Gold Project 20koz Au in fully permitted open pit mine near CGM Tolmer discovery grades up to 84g/t Au & 17,600g/t Ag Tunkillia Gold Project 1.6Moz Au & 3.1Moz Ag JORC Mineral Resources Competitive 120kozpa gold & 250kozpa silver project Wudinna Gold Project 279koz Au project located southeast of Tunkillia Significant optionality, adjacent to main highway Competent Persons Statement & Previously Reported Information The information in this announcement that relates to the historic Exploration Results and Mineral Resources as listed in the table below is based on, and fairly represents, information and supporting documentation prepared by the Competent Person whose name appears in the same row, who is an employee of or independent consultant to the Company and is a Member or Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy ( AusIMM ), Australian Institute of Geoscientists ( AIG ) or a Recognised Professional Organisation (RPO). Each person named in the table below has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and types of deposits under consideration and to the activity which he has undertaken to quality as a Competent Person as defined in the JORC Code 2012 ( JORC ). Activity Competent Person Membership Status Tarcoola Mineral Resource (Stockpiles) Dr Andrew Fowler (Consultant) AusIMM Member Tarcoola Mineral Resource (Perseverance Mine) Mr Ian Taylor (Consultant) AusIMM Fellow Tarcoola Exploration Results (until 15 Nov 2021) Mr Colin Skidmore (Consultant) AIG Member Tarcoola Exploration Results (after 15 Nov 2021) Mr Marc Twining (Employee) AusIMM Member Tunkillia Exploration Results (until 15 Nov 2021) Mr Colin Skidmore (Consultant) AIG Member Tunkillia Exploration Results (after 15 Nov 2021) Mr Marc Twining (Employee) AusIMM Member Tunkillia Mineral Resource Mr Ian Taylor (Consultant) AusIMM Fellow Challenger Mineral Resource Mr Ian Taylor (Consultant) AusIMM Fellow Wudinna Mineral Resource (Clarke Deposit) Ms Justine Tracey AusIMM Member Wudinna Mineral Resource (all other Deposits) Mrs Christine Standing AusIMM / AIG Member / Member The information relating to historic Exploration Results and Mineral Resources in this announcement is extracted from the Company's Prospectus dated 14 May 2021 or as otherwise noted in this announcement, available from the Company's website at www.bartongold.com.au or on the ASX website www.asx.com.au . The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the Exploration Results and Mineral Resource information included in previous announcements and, in the case of estimates of Mineral Resources, that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates, and any production targets and forecast financial information derived from the production targets, continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company confirms that the form and context in which the applicable Competent Persons' findings are presented have not been materially modified from the previous announcements. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This document may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "expect", "target" and "intend" and statements than an event or result "may", "will", "should", "would", "could", or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. Forward-looking information is subject to business, legal and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among other things, risks relating to property interests, the global economic climate, commodity prices, sovereign and legal risks, and environmental risks. Forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and opinions at the date the statements are made. Barton undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements for events or circumstances that occur subsequent to such dates or to update or keep current any of the information contained herein. Any estimates or projections as to events that may occur in the future (including projections of revenue, expense, net income and performance) are based upon the best judgment of Barton from information available as of the date of this document. There is no guarantee that any of these estimates or projections will be achieved. Actual results will vary from the projections and such variations may be material. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied upon as, a promise or representation as to the past or future. Any reliance placed by the reader on this document, or on any forward-looking statement contained in or referred to in this document will be solely at the readers own risk, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. * Refer to Barton Prospectus dated 14 May 2021 and ASX announcement dated 25 July 2025. Total Barton JORC (2012) Mineral Resources include 1,049koz Au (39.7Mt @ 0.82 g/t Au) in Indicated category and 1,095koz Au (39.2Mt @ 0.87 g/t Au) in Inferred category, and 3,070koz Ag (34.5Mt @ 2.80 g/t Ag) in Inferred category as a subset of Tunkillia gold JORC (2012) Mineral Resources. SOURCE: Barton Gold Holdings Limited View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/quarterly-activities-and-cashflow-report-1054125 Kunstliche Intelligenz, Magnificent Seven, Tech-Euphorie seit Monaten scheint an der Borse nur eine Richtung zu existieren: nach oben. Doch hinter den Rekordkursen lauert eine gefahrliche Wahrheit. Die Bewertungen vieler Tech-Schwergewichte haben historische Extremniveaus erreicht. Shiller-KGV bei 39, Buffett-Indikator auf Allzeithoch schon in der Dotcom-Ara war der Markt kaum teurer. Hinzu kommen euphorische Anlegerstimmung, IPO-Hypes ohne Substanz, kreditfinanzierte Wertpapierkaufe in Rekordhohe und charttechnische Warnsignale, die Erinnerungen an 2000 und 2021 wecken. Gleichzeitig drucken geopolitische Risiken, Trumps aggressive Zollpolitik und saisonale Borsenschwache auf die Perspektiven. Die Gefahr: Aus der schleichenden Korrektur konnte ein rasanter Crash werden und der konnte vor allem uberbewertete KI- und Chipwerte hart treffen. In unserem kostenlosen Spezial-Report zeigen wir Ihnen, welche Tech-Aktien am starksten gefahrdet sind und wie Sie Ihr Depot vor dem Platzen der Blase schutzen konnten. Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden! Jacksonville, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - July 28, 2025) - As businesses in call-heavy industries face the growing challenge of managing high volumes of customer interactions, CapVox AI unveils a groundbreaking solution. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, CapVox AI leverages advanced voice automation technology to replace traditional sales development representatives (SDRs) and receptionists with ultra-realistic, AI-powered voice agents. These agents work continuously, without breaks, burnout, or delays, operating 24/7 to ensure optimal efficiency. CapVox AI Introduces Revolutionary Voice Automation for 24/7 Lead Conversion To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/260216_bb5ef233f4a2cabc_002full.jpg Industries such as legal, solar, HVAC, insurance, healthcare, and business process outsourcing (BPO) companies rely heavily on prompt response times and high-quality customer service. CapVox AI enables businesses to meet these demands consistently, enhancing lead conversion rates while reducing operational costs. A Solution Built for Scalability CapVox AI is not simply about replacing human representatives-it's about empowering businesses to scale with high-performing AI agents that operate at maximum efficiency. Whether handling inbound inquiries, following up on cold leads, or managing customer questions, CapVox AI's voice agents understand context, address objections, and adapt in real-time to the conversation. This makes them an effective extension of a business's sales or customer service team. With seamless CRM integrations and the ability to schedule appointments in real-time, CapVox AI ensures no lead is left unattended. Businesses can expect lead qualification, customer service, and scheduling to be handled efficiently, resulting in faster response times and improved sales conversions. Instant Personalization: Try Before Buying What distinguishes CapVox AI from other platforms is its personalized demo feature. Unlike many competitors, CapVox AI allows businesses to experience a fully customized demo in less than two minutes. This demo is tailored to each company's unique name and details, giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to directly evaluate how the AI agent would function within their specific business context. This hands-on demo experience offers a direct preview of the platform's capabilities, providing businesses with the confidence to assess its effectiveness before committing. Upon moving forward, clients experience even greater performance from the full version, which boasts an increase in effectiveness of up to 1,300% over the demo. The Power of Data: Track, Analyze, and Optimize CapVox AI not only delivers voice agents but also offers a comprehensive performance dashboard, providing businesses with transparency and control. Clients can monitor every aspect of their AI agents' performance-from lead qualification and call volume to appointment bookings and call transcripts. This level of visibility allows businesses to optimize workflows and improve operations over time. CapVox AI's data-driven approach is an essential tool for businesses aiming to make informed decisions and scale confidently. CapVox AI Introduces Revolutionary Voice Automation for 24/7 Lead Conversion To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/260216_bb5ef233f4a2cabc_003full.jpg A Smarter Alternative for Scaling Sales Teams CapVox AI is an efficient and scalable alternative to traditional sales teams. With AI agents working around the clock, businesses can maintain consistent customer engagement, minimize missed opportunities, and scale operations without the need to constantly hire and train new employees. CapVox AI is already helping companies in competitive sectors like solar energy and legal services achieve significant growth. By ensuring leads are contacted within seconds-at any time of day or night-CapVox AI boosts sales conversions, while its voice agents effectively qualify leads, follow up with prospects, and schedule appointments-all with the professionalism of a skilled sales representative. About CapVox AI CapVox AI is an innovative voice automation platform based in Jacksonville, Florida. The platform is designed to replace human sales development representatives (SDRs) and receptionists with ultra-realistic AI voice agents. These agents handle inbound and outbound calls, qualify leads, schedule appointments, route calls, and address customer inquiries-operating 24/7 with no human intervention. CapVox AI serves industries such as legal, solar, HVAC, insurance, healthcare, and BPO firms, empowering businesses to scale operations while lowering costs and enhancing lead conversion rates. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260216 SOURCE: Plentisoft LEM HOLDING SA / Key word(s): Quarter Results LEM with resilient sales in Q1 2025/26 - Growth in Automotive and Track 29-Jul-2025 / 07:00 CET/CEST Release of an ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Sales impacted by depreciation of CNY : Sales declined 6.5% to CHF 75.7 million (2024/25: CHF 81.0 million); at constant exchange rates, the decrease was 0.1%. Automotive and Track grew 9.0% and 10.6%, respectively. In sequential terms, Q1 2025/26 sales were down 0.4% compared to Q4 2024/25; at constant exchange rates they went up by 3.3%. : Sales declined 6.5% to CHF 75.7 million (2024/25: CHF 81.0 million); at constant exchange rates, the decrease was 0.1%. Automotive and Track grew 9.0% and 10.6%, respectively. In sequential terms, Q1 2025/26 sales were down 0.4% compared to Q4 2024/25; at constant exchange rates they went up by 3.3%. Healthy Bookings: At CHF 89.1 million, bookings* were 19.0% above the previous year's level (CHF 74.9 million). The EMEA and China regions recorded strong increases of 40.0% and 15.6%, respectively. The Book-to-bill ratio stayed at a healthy 1.18 in Q1 2025/26, after reaching 1.23 in Q4 2024/25. At CHF 89.1 million, bookings* were 19.0% above the previous year's level (CHF 74.9 million). The EMEA and China regions recorded strong increases of 40.0% and 15.6%, respectively. The Book-to-bill ratio stayed at a healthy 1.18 in Q1 2025/26, after reaching 1.23 in Q4 2024/25. Gross Margin decline: The gross profit margin decreased from 44.4% to 38.2%, impacted by price pressure in China, negative mix effects and the under-absorption of production fixed costs resulting from still low volumes, and the fact not all cost increases triggered by the tariff policy were passed on to customers. The gross profit margin decreased from 44.4% to 38.2%, impacted by price pressure in China, negative mix effects and the under-absorption of production fixed costs resulting from still low volumes, and the fact not all cost increases triggered by the tariff policy were passed on to customers. EBIT declined by 44.4% to CHF 4.2 million (CHF 7.5 million); the EBIT margin amounted to 5.5%. The company-wide transformation and efficiency improvement program "Fit for Growth" runs within the planned timing and already showed an initial positive impact, with SG&A down 12.8% compared to a 6.5% decline in sales. Net profit decreased to CHF 2.0 million, resulting in a net profit margin of 2.6% (CHF 4.8 million; 5.9%). by 44.4% to CHF 4.2 million (CHF 7.5 million); the EBIT margin amounted to 5.5%. The company-wide transformation and efficiency improvement program "Fit for Growth" runs within the planned timing and already showed an initial positive impact, with SG&A down 12.8% compared to a 6.5% decline in sales. Net profit decreased to CHF 2.0 million, resulting in a net profit margin of 2.6% (CHF 4.8 million; 5.9%). Despite the positive booking trends across all businesses except Renewable Energy, and because of the short-term visibility, LEM does not expect in the foreseeable future a general change in the business development. Uncertainties remain regarding the global impact of US tariff policy and significant currency fluctuations. Frank Rehfeld, Chief Executive Officer, said: "The first quarter was marked by a continued high level of uncertainty in the market and continued subdued demand which led our customers to hold back investment decisions. This challenging environment was further compounded by the strengthening of the Swiss franc against the currencies in all our major markets which had a noticeable impact on our top line. Against this backdrop, LEM successfully built on its regained competitiveness in the Automotive segment, extending this strength to other regions and expanding market share. We continued to move forward, building on a business model that is well-positioned to benefit from global megatrends such as electrification, renewable energies and e-mobility. We invested in innovation, strengthened customer proximity and aligned our structure to meet shifting market realities - mainly towards China, where our efforts to win new projects and build regional capabilities have continued to bear fruit." * LEM has adjusted its order booking system. Contrary to previous practice, orders received and delivered within the same month are now also recorded. For comparison purposes, last year's bookings were restated based on the identical system. Sales by business in CHF millions Business Q1 2025/26 Q1 2024/25 Change Change at constant exchange rates Automation 21.2 23.6 -10.3% -4.3% Automotive 21.7 19.9 +9.0% +17.0% Renewable Energy 10.9 14.1 -22.9% -17.2% Energy Distribution & High Precision 9.7 12.2 -20.8% -15.5% Track 12.3 11.1 +10.6% +16.6% Total 75.7 81.0 -6.5% -0.1% Automation The Automation business experienced a temporary slowdown in demand stabilization, influenced by ongoing news around US tariff policy. At the same time, design activities for new projects continued to gain momentum across most markets. Although inventory levels are now back to normal, the highly competitive pricing environment in several regions continues to weigh on overall performance and limits visibility for a sustained recovery. Automotive The Automotive business continued its dynamic growth in line with the global New Energy vehicle market. The advantages of its strong technological capabilities and cost-efficient base in China's EV market were successfully transferred to other regions. While EV market penetration varied across regions, LEM also made good progress in securing new projects in the hybrid segment. Renewable Energy The Renewable Energy business continued to decline across all markets. The downturn was driven by a combination of pricing pressure, mix effects, and persistently high inventory levels in Western end markets. However, China - the largest market - is showing signs of normalization, even as regulatory changes introduce new uncertainties. Revised solar feed-in tariffs in China from June 2025 ended fixed subsidies and shifted to market-based pricing, which could slow new project investments and weigh on demand for LEM's sensors in renewable energy applications. Energy Distribution & High Precision The DC meter market is seeing rising demand, but regional developments remain uneven and closely mirror the heterogeneous dynamics of the EV market. With the increasing shift of the industry to China - driven both by the booming domestic market and by exports - positive growth rates were recorded only there. In all regions, business with uninterruptible power supply for data centers developed favorably, while Test & Measurement and high-precision solutions for medical devices declined. Track LEM achieved good growth in the track business, although regional developments varied significantly. Both retrofitting and new business are cyclical and project-driven, and the company recorded encouraging momentum in both areas while benefiting from its strong position in China, particularly by serving customers with strong export activities. Sales by region in CHF millions Region Q1 2025/26 Q1 2024/25 Change Change at constant exchange rates China 29.1 31.8 -8.4% +0.4% Rest of Asia 12.2 13.6 -10.1% -5.5% EMEA 26.1 26.7 -2.1% +1.6% Americas 8.4 9.0 -7.0% +1.0% Total 75.7 81.0 -6.5% -0.1% China Stabilization trends broadened in China, and LEM was able to further strengthen its market position, particularly with local players serving the domestic market, while securing new customer projects. In addition, the increasing shift of production in industries such as Automotive, Renewable Energy and Track - as well as products like DC meters - was successfully accompanied by LEM, allowing the company to expand its position with Chinese customers who look for export markets outside of China. Rest of Asia The downturn in the rest of Asia, particularly Korea and Japan, continued. While inventory levels in the Automation business have normalized and signs of recovering demand are emerging, there are no indications of a rebound in the Automotive segment. India, by contrast, delivered positive developments in the Track business. The strategic decision to establish production in Penang is starting to bear fruit, particularly with customers concerned about the ongoing US tariff developments. EMEA The encouraging stabilization in Europe manifested very differently across the various businesses. The structurally challenged segments Renewable Energy and EDHP continued to decline. By contrast, in Automotive, the introduction of new products and successful participation in project tenders laid the foundation for continued growth. Notably, there were also positive results in the cyclical project business for Track. Americas The development in the Americas region remained weak across most businesses. In addition, some investments were postponed or cancelled due to reduced investment security. The US tariffs development led to increased input cost pressure, which LEM addressed through price increases, enhanced cost efficiency and by leveraging the opportunities of its broad production network. Profitability weighed by market and operational factors; "Fit for Growth" already delivering impact The gross profit margin decreased from 44.4% to 38.2%, impacted by pricing pressure from competitors in China, negative mix effects and the under-absorption of production fixed costs resulting from still low volumes, and the fact not all cost increases triggered by the tariff policy were yet passed on to customers. SG&A decreased by 12.8% compared to a 6.5% decline in sales, already showing an initial positive impact of the company-wide transformation and efficiency improvement program "Fit for Growth. SG&A costs as a percentage of sales decreased to 21.4% (22.9%). R&D costs declined by 16.3% to CHF 8.3 million or 11.0% of sales (CHF 9.9 million; 12.3%). EBIT declined by 44.4% to CHF 4.2 million (CHF 7.5 million); the EBIT margin amounted to 5.5%. This includes one-time restructuring costs of CHF 0.3 million for the "Fit for Growth" program (Of the total one-time costs of around CHF 10 million, CHF 8.2 million have already been incurred). EBIT before restructuring costs would have reached CHF 4.5 million, representing an EBIT margin of 5.9%. The implementation of the "Fit for Growth" program is proceeding according to plan. Financial expenses increased from CHF0.6 million to CHF1.2 million due to higher average financial debt. Exchange rate effects from the Swiss franc appreciation had a smaller negative impact of CHF0.6 million compared to CHF1.3 million in the prior year. Net profit decreased from CHF 4.8 million to CHF 2.0 million, resulting in a net profit margin of 2.6% (5.9%). Outlook Despite the positive booking trends across all businesses except Renewable Energy, and because of the short-term visibility, LEM does not expect in the foreseeable future a general change in the business development. Uncertainties remain regarding the global impact of US tariff policy and significant currency fluctuations. Financial calendar The financial year runs from 1 April to 31 March 10 November 2025 Half year results 2025/26 6 February 2026 9 months results 2025/26 26 May 2026 Full year results 2025/26 25 June 2026 Annual General Meeting for the financial year 2025/26 29 June 2026 Dividend ex-date 1 July 2026 Dividend payment date LEM - Life Energy Motion A leading company in electrical measurement, LEM engineers the best solutions for energy and mobility, ensuring that our customers' systems are optimized, reliable and safe. Our 1,702 people in 17 countries transform technology potential into powerful answers. We develop and recruit the best global talent, working at the forefront of megatrends such as renewable energy, mobility, automation and digitization. With innovative electrical solutions, we are helping our customers and society accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future. Listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange since 1986, the company's ticker symbol is LEHN. www.lem.com LEM - Life Energy Motion A leading company in electrical measurement, LEM engineers the best solutions for energy and mobility, ensuring that our customers' systems are optimized, reliable and safe. Our 1,500 people in over 15 countries transform technology potential into powerful answers. We develop and recruit the best global talent, working at the forefront of mega trends such as renewable energy, mobility, automation and digitization. With innovative electrical solutions, we are helping our customers and society accelerate the transition to a sustainable future. Listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange since 1986, the company's ticker symbol is LEHN. www.lem.com Investor contact Antoine Chulia, CFO +41 22 706 12 50 investor@lem.com Media contact Dynamics Group Thomas Balmer, +41 79 703 87 28, tba@dynamicsgroup.ch Christian Wolf, +41 79 457 72 05, cwo@dynamicsgroup.ch ATTACHMENTS: Press Release (pdf) If you do not wish to receive further media releases from LEM, you can unsubscribe at any time by clicking on the following link: One-click-delete If the email looks unformatted, please use this alternative link . End of Inside Information BTS, a global consultancy specializing in strategy execution and people transformation, is proud to announce the opening of its newest office in Nairobi, Kenya. This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone in the company's growth across Africa and underscores BTS's commitment to supporting business transformation across the dynamic East African region. The new office, located in the heart of Nairobi's financial district, will serve as a hub for BTS's work across Kenya and the broader East African market, offering bespoke solutions in leadership development, strategy execution, change management, and AI-era learning transformation. Kibugi Kigundu, BTS Associate Director and Country Lead shared, "Kenya is rapidly emerging as one of Africa's most influential business and technology hubs. With a thriving innovation ecosystem, strong regional connectivity, and established strength across all sectors, the country offers a young, dynamic talent pool and unparalleled opportunities for leadership, capability development, and transformative growth. BTS brings a unique blend of global expertise and deep local partnerships to this hub through immersive learning, data-driven people strategies, and decades of experience transforming organizations. Kenya is where Africa's future is being built and BTS is excited to help shape it." BTS has worked with leading organizations across Africa for over 30 years and is now reinforcing its long-term commitment to the continent by establishing a permanent presence in Kenya. The new office will enable BTS to strengthen relationships with existing clients, forge new partnerships, and provide on-the-ground support for transformational projects in the region. "We are excited to deepen our engagement in East Africa," said Soma Zaaiman, Vice President Managing Director, BTS Africa. "By partnering with organizations, we can together equip and inspire people to do the best work of their lives for impact in company and country. It will allow us to bring our signature approach to leadership, learning, and strategic alignment to co-create with a region full of potential, creativity, and ambition." The Nairobi launch is the latest office in Africa after Stellenbosch and Johannesburg and joins BTS as its 39th office spanning across 24 countries reflecting the company's global strategy expertise and local presence. BTS's entry into Kenya will be marked by its sponsorship and official launch at the RIKA Leadership Summit, taking place in Nairobi on July 31st, 2025. This year's summit theme, "Leadership and Work Redefined: Adapting to AI, Evolving Markets, and New Leadership Models," is a timely reflection of the expertise BTS brings to the region as the leader in AI-era learning, helping organizations navigate complexity, embrace transformation, and build future-fit leadership. Natalie Manga, Program Director, RIKA Africa added, "We are excited to welcome BTS to East Africa and are honored that the RIKA Leadership Summit is part of this launch moment. Their focus on the people side of strategy deeply resonates with us. At RIKA, we are committed to building the next generation of human capital leaders in Africa, and this partnership reflects a powerful shift toward people-first leadership across the continent." View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250728012533/en/ Contacts: For media inquiries, interviews, or more information, please contact: Kristina Beggs Marketing Director, IMEA Email: kristina.beggs@bts.com Website: www.bts.com Quinbrook Cements Leadership in Grid Stability with Irish Expansion Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners ("Quinbrook"), a specialist global investment manager focused exclusively on the infrastructure needed for the energy transition, today announced that it has closed its first investment in the Republic of Ireland with the acquisition of the Wexford Synchronous Condenser Project ("Wexford"), a proposed 963 MVA.s. facility to be located in Co. Wexford, Ireland. Wexford, originally developed by Green Frog Power, was awarded a long-term revenue contract under the Low Carbon Inertia Services (LCIS) tender in June 2024. The project is configured to provide critical grid services including inertia, short-circuit level, and reactive power that are essential to maintain stability in the Irish electricity grid. "Wexford marks a significant milestone for Quinbrook as we continue to grow our grid stability portfolio and mark our first investment in Ireland," said Keith Gains, Managing Director and UK Regional Leader for Quinbrook. "The Wexford project underscores our commitment to building critical infrastructure that supports Ireland's energy transition and strengthens grid resilience. As Ireland moves toward its goal of sourcing 80% of electricity from renewables by 2030, investments in grid stability are essential. We are excited to bring our team's expertise to Ireland to help accelerate the shift to a more sustainable power system." This latest investment builds on Quinbrook's grid stability leadership in the UK where it is the largest private owner of synchronous condensers, with over 430 million now committed for investment across its portfolio. With three projects already operational and four more under construction, Quinbrook is applying its proven model to support Ireland's transition to a more resilient and decarbonised power system. Synchronous condensers provide grid stability by providing system inertia, reducing the risk of blackouts. While thermal generation plants create inertia through large rotating turbines, renewables such as wind and solar do not, constraining the deployment of renewable energy. Synchronous condensers offer a cost-effective, zero-emissions solution to this challenge by replicating the stabilising effect of traditional generators, allowing more renewable energy to be used without compromising grid reliability. Procurement and construction for Wexford will be overseen by Quinbrook's long-standing delivery partner, Welsh Power. Having successfully developed and managed construction for Quinbrook's existing synchronous condenser projects in the UK, Welsh Power brings deep technical expertise and a proven track record in delivering complex grid infrastructure. Quinbrook will fully fund the construction phase, with Wexford expected to commence operations in 2027. About Quinbrook Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners (http://www.quinbrook.com) is a specialist investment manager focused exclusively on the infrastructure needed to drive the energy transition in the UK, US, and Australia. Quinbrook is led and managed by a senior team of power industry professionals who have collectively invested c. USD 6.9 billion of equity capital in 40 GW of energy infrastructure assets representing a total transaction value of USD 29.8 billion. Quinbrook has completed a diverse range of direct investments in both utility and distributed scale onshore wind and solar power, battery storage, reserve peaking capacity, biomass, fugitive methane recovery, hydro and flexible energy management solutions in the UK, US, and Australia. Quinbrook is currently developing and constructing some of the largest renewables and storage infrastructure projects in the UK, US, and Australia. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250728313224/en/ Contacts: Media Contact: Jennifer Pflieger +1 (212) 446-1866 jpflieger@sloanepr.com Blighter's C400 series coastline surveillance radars, featuring advanced Doppler signal processing and unique wave and sea clutter filters, provide all-weather 24/7 protection against small shallow-draught vessels favoured by oil pirates and militants CAMBRIDGE, England, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Blighter (www.blighter.com), a pioneering designer and manufacturer of Smart electronic-scanning radars, has deployed its dual-mode Blighter C400 series coastline surveillance technology to protect offshore oil platforms and an onshore refinery in Equatorial Guinea, a Petro-piracy hotspot off the West African coast. Blighter's C400 series radars have been proven to be highly effective in targeting the growing problem of piracy. It is estimated that the illegal black market for stolen oil is worth over US$1 billion. The radars in Equatorial Guinea are now fully operational following system configuration and training. According to Blighter, its customer needed a compact coastline radar system that was easy to install, ultra-reliable and could detect, track and classify the small shallow-draught vessels favoured by oil pirates and militants, which typically sit low in the water and move at speed. It was vital that the radar sensor selected provided detection day and night in all weather conditions, including heavy rain, fog and during thunderstorms. James Long, Blighter's CEO, says: "We know that oil pirates are highly organised and often choose to exploit harsh weather conditions to evade detection with many only becoming active during heavy rains or high sea states. Our C400 radar systems were chosen to plug the gap in our customer's defences as our sensors are specifically designed to detect even the smallest uncooperative targets in complex, cluttered and extreme environments." Blighter's C400 radars have several features that make them suitable for coastline surveillance, and particularly for detecting uncooperative targets. First, the compact design and low-power electronically scanning and frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) technologies contains no moving parts. This ensures ease of installation and ultra-reliable operation with minimal maintenance even in the harshest marine conditions. The C400 series is IP66-rated and MIL-STD-810F compliant. Second, the Blighter C400 series radar uses advanced Doppler signal processing to provide the ability to precisely examine the motion of waterborne objects with respect to waves or ripples on the water surface. Unlike traditional Doppler radars, the C400 series characterises non-moving targets using the static target detector so that moored boats, buoys and other structures remain visible on the radar screen. Third, the radar's built-in sea clutter filter automatically adapts to changing sea states and wave conditions to remove the unwanted radar signal produced by waves using both velocity (speed) and amplitude (height) characteristics. Blighter radar's e-scan antenna technology and FMCW design also allows it to be mounted high on offshore platforms and onshore towers and still detect targets close to the platform or shore as well as those further away. In Equatorial Guinea, the detection range of the C400 radars is around 20km. Importantly, all of the radars deployed are networked together to provide onshore controllers with a common operating picture (COP) of the offshore and onshore facilities. "We are delighted to see that our radar technology is continuing to be used to combat the costly problem of Petro-piracy in the oil and gas industry," says James Long, Blighter's CEO. "Our C400 radars have proved to be highly effective against piracy and their dual mode operation allows detection of small and/or slow-moving boats at sea as well as ground targets such as intruders on the coastline shore." The Blighter C400 series radar can be integrated into a larger coastal security system incorporating day/night and fog penetrating electro-optical camera systems, AIS (automatic identification system), other boat transponder/tracking systems and CCTV. These elements can all be controlled through Blighter's command and control (C2) software platform. Blighter C400 series radars are also suitable for other coastal security applications including seaport security surveillance and water-side security of land based coastal assets, such as desalination plants, nuclear power stations, palaces and other high value assets. For more information about the Blighter C400 coastline surveillance radar, please visit www.blighter.com, telephone +44 1223 491122 or email hello@blighter.com. Or come and meet the team on Stand N6-166 at the DSEI Defence and Security show taking place at the ExCel Centre in London, from 9-12 September 2025. Media Photos: https://www.blighter.com/wp-content/uploads/Harsh-Weather-Landscape-Oil-Rig-C400.jpg https://www.blighter.com/wp-content/uploads/harsh-weather-Square-offshore-and-C400.jpg https://www.blighter.com/wp-content/uploads/Landscape-C400.jpg https://www.blighter.com/wp-content/uploads/James-Long-Blighter-Radars.jpg Datasheet: https://www.blighter.com/wp-content/uploads/blighter-c400-series-radars-datasheet-bss-1706.pdf About Blighter (www.blighter.com) Blighter, Cambridge UK, is a pioneering designer and manufacturer of ground-based electronic-scanning radars for surveillance of moving objects on the ground, along coastlines and in the air. Blighter radars use patented ultra-reliable, low SWaP - size, weight, and power (4 Watts) - electronic-scanning antenna technology and advanced AI (artificial intelligence) assisted software to detect, track and classify small and slow-moving threats in complex environments. Blighter radars are also used as part of short-range air defence (SHORAD) systems to detect drones and FPVs (first person view). Blighter radars are trusted by the UK Ministry of Defence for forward operating base (FOB) protection, the South Korean Army for border surveillance along the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), by the United States Air Force for drone detection, and the UK's major airports for perimeter protection. Blighter's commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) product portfolio includes ITAR-free 2D, 3D and 4D radars and a range of software applications to simplify the integration, configuration, control and viewing of multiple networked radars. Pattern of life analysis is used to enhance situational analysis and the speed and efficiency of threat detection. Blighter radars feature Low-Probability-of-Intercept (LPI) waveforms and are designed for rugged operation at fixed and mobile locations and on the move. Blighter supports the local assembly of certain products to enable indigenous manufacture and works in partnership with international systems integrators to create layered multi-sensor surveillance systems for asset and area protection. Blighter is located in Great Chesterford on the outskirts of Cambridge, UK. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/blighters-smart-e-scan-radars-deployed-to-protect-oil-facilities-in-petro-piracy-hotspot-302515219.html Study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fosmanogepix in adults with invasive mold infections Study completion expected in Q1 2028 Allschwil, Switzerland, July 29, 2025 Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil (SIX: BSLN), a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to meeting the needs of patients with severe bacterial and fungal infections, announced today the initiation of FORWARD-IM, a phase 3 registrational study evaluating the efficacy and safety of its broad-spectrum antifungal fosmanogepix for the treatment of adult patients with invasive mold infections.[1] Fosmanogepix is a first-in-class antifungal with a novel mechanism of action and is available in both intravenous and oral formulations. It has been evaluated for efficacy and safety in a phase 1 and phase 2 program, including three open-label phase 2 studies for the treatment of Candidemia, including Candida auris, and invasive mold infections.[2,3,4,5,6] The FORWARD-IM study is the second phase 3 study for fosmanogepix, following the initiation of FAST-IC in September 2024, a randomized, double-blind phase 3 registrational study in adult patients with candidemia and/or invasive candidiasis.[7] Dr. Marc Engelhardt, Chief Medical Officer of Basilea, said: "Our phase 3 program with fosmanogepix allows us to fully explore the clinical benefit of this important new treatment option for invasive fungal infections. Its broad-spectrum activity against multidrug-resistant molds and yeasts highlights the unique potential of fosmanogepix to address significant gaps in current antifungal therapies. Fosmanogepix has shown promising efficacy in earlier clinical studies and in the ongoing expanded access program. The initiation of our second phase 3 study is a significant milestone for fosmanogepix and demonstrates our commitment to advancing our innovative pipeline for the benefit of patients." FORWARD-IM is an interventional, open-label, two-cohort phase 3 study in adult patients with invasive mold infections caused by Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp., Lomentospora prolificans, Mucorales fungi, or other multidrug-resistant molds. The first cohort will enroll approximately 160 patients, randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive either fosmanogepix or current standard-of-care therapy. The second cohort will enroll approximately 60 patients who have developed intolerance, toxicities, lack of clinical response, or whose fungal isolate is resistant to standard-of-care therapy. All patients in the second cohort will receive fosmanogepix. The completion of the study and publication of results are expected in 2028. The Swiss-based global company PSI CRO AG is managing the phase 3 program. Basilea acquired fosmanogepix from Amplyx Pharmaceuticals, Inc., an affiliate of Pfizer Inc. Pfizer retains a right of first negotiation for commercializing fosmanogepix, once phase 3 development is successfully completed. This project is funded in part with federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); Administration of Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR); Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), under OT number: 75A50124C00033. The contract and federal funding are not an endorsement of the study results, product, or company. About fosmanogepix Fosmanogepix is a clinical-stage broad-spectrum antifungal. It has a novel mechanism of action and its active moiety has shown activity against common species of Candida and Aspergillus, including multi-drug-resistant strains, such as Candida auris and Candida glabrata, as well as rare difficult-to-treat molds including Fusarium spp., Lomentospora prolificans, Scedosporium spp., and some fungi from the Mucorales order.[2] Fosmanogepix intravenous and oral formulations have been evaluated in phase 2 studies for the treatment of patients with Candidemia, including Candida auris, and invasive mold infections.[4,5,6] Fosmanogepix has received Fast Track and Orphan Drug designations from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for seven separate indications, and is designated as a Qualified Infectious Disease Product (QIDP). About invasive mold infections Invasive aspergillosis and invasive infections with rare molds (e.g., Fusarium spp., Lomentospora prolificans, Scedosporium spp., and Mucorales fungi) are life-threatening infections that predominantly affect immunocompromised patients, including patients with hematologic malignancies (blood cancer), transplant patients, or patients with other immunodeficiency disorders. These infections are associated with high morbidity and mortality.[8,9] About invasive candidiasis Invasive candidiasis, including deep-seated tissue candidiasis and candidemia, is an increasingly important nosocomial infection, especially in patients hospitalized in intensive care units. Candida species are ranked as the fourth main cause of bloodstream infections in hospitals in the US.[10] The prognosis of invasive candidiasis remains unfavorable, with a reported mortality rate as high as 40%, even when patients receive antifungal therapy.[11] About Basilea Basilea is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company founded in 2000 and headquartered in Switzerland. We are committed to discovering, developing and commercializing innovative drugs to meet the needs of patients with severe bacterial and fungal infections. We have successfully launched two hospital brands, Cresemba for the treatment of invasive fungal infections and Zevtera for the treatment of bacterial infections. In addition, we have preclinical and clinical anti-infective assets in our portfolio. Basilea is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. Disclaimer This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements, such as "believe", "assume", "expect", "forecast", "project", "may", "could", "might", "will" or similar expressions concerning Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil and its business, including with respect to the progress, timing and completion of research, development and clinical studies for product candidates. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For further information, please contact: Peer Nils Schroder, PhD Head of Corporate Communications & Investor Relations Basilea Pharmaceutica International Ltd, Allschwil Hegenheimermattweg 167b 4123 Allschwil Switzerland Phone +41 61 606 1102 E-mail media_relations@basilea.com (mailto:media_relations@basilea.com) investor_relations@basilea.com (mailto:investor_relations@basilea.com) This press release can be downloaded from www.basilea.com. References FORWARD-IM (FOsmanogepix study Run Worldwide as Antifungal treatment in Resistant Disease caused by Invasive Molds): ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06925321 K. J. Shaw, A. S. Ibrahim. Fosmanogepix: A Review of the First-in-Class Broad Spectrum Agent for the Treatment of Invasive Fungal Infections. Journal of Fungi (Basel) 2020 (6), 239 M. R. Hodges, E. Ople, P. Wedel et al. Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Intravenous and Oral Fosmanogepix, a First-in-Class Antifungal Agent, in Healthy Volunteers. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 2023 (67), e01623-22 J. A. Vazquez, P. G. Pappas, K. Boffard et al. Clinical Efficacy and Safety of a Novel Antifungal, Fosmanogepix, in Patients with Candidemia Caused by Candida auris: Results from a Phase 2 Trial. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy2023 (67), e01419-22 P. G. Pappas, J. A. Vazquez, I. Oren et al. Clinical safety and efficacy of novel antifungal, fosmanogepix, for the treatment of candidaemia: results from a Phase 2 trial. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy 2023 (78), 2471-2480 M.R. Hodges, M. Tawadrous, O.A. Cornely et al. Fosmanogepix for the Treatment of Invasive Mold Diseases Caused by Aspergillus Species and Rare Molds: A Phase 2, Open-Label Study (AEGIS). Clinical Infectious Diseases 2025 Apr 9:ciaf185 FAST-IC (Fosmanogepix Against Standard-of-care Treatment in Invasive Candidiasis): ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05421858 J. Cadena, G. R. Thompson 3rd, T. F. Patterson. Aspergillosis: Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Infectious Disease Clinics of North America 2021 (35), 415-434 M. Slavin, S. van Hal, T. C. Sorrell et al. Invasive infections due to filamentous fungi other than Aspergillus: epidemiology and determinants of mortality. Clinical Microbiology and Infection 2015 (21), 490.e1-490.e10 Candidemia (Blood Infection) and Other Candida Infections. 2019 Factsheet by the American Thoracic Society: https://www.thoracic.org/patients/patient-resources/resources/candidemia.pdf (https://www.thoracic.org/patients/patient-resources/resources/candidemia.pdf) (Accessed: July 28, 2025) B. J. Kullberg, M. C. Arendrup. Invasive Candidiasis. The New England Journal of Medicine 2015 (373), 1445-1456 Attachment Graphene-based BCI demonstrates high-resolution brain decoding and mapping in patients undergoing tumor resection at the Manchester Centre for Clinical Neurosciences Initial four patient cohort has shown no safety concerns to date that would prevent the completion of this first-in-human study. INBRAIN Neuroelectronics today announced the interim analysis of findings from the world's first-in-human clinical study of its graphene-based brain-computer interface (BCI) technology. The study, sponsored by the University of Manchester and conducted at the Manchester Centre for Clinical Neurosciences (Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust), is evaluating the safety and functional performance of graphene-based electrodes when used during surgery for resection of brain tumors. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250728135880/en/ Image caption: INBRAIN BCI Cortical Film; Image credit: INBRAIN Neuroelectronics The primary objective of the study (NCT06368310) is to assess the safety of INBRAIN's brain-computer interface (BCI) during brain tumor surgery. Secondary objectives include evaluating the quality of neural signals captured by the device, its ability to deliver targeted brain stimulation, the consistency of its performance throughout the procedure, and its overall suitability for use in the neurosurgical operating room. A total of 8 to 10 patients are expected to be enrolled to validate the safety and functional performance of the graphene-based BCI. The study design included an interim analysis after the first four patients had been recruited to ensure patient safety and data quality. Interim analysis of the results from the first cohort of four patients enrolled in the study demonstrated no device-related adverse events, a key component of the primary endpoint of the study. During awake language mapping, the device captured distinct high gamma activity linked to different phonemes, the smallest units of sound in speech, showcasing exceptional spatial and temporal resolution, even with micrometer-scale contacts. The ultra-thin, sub-micrometer graphene electrodes also proved compatible with commercially available, CE-marked electrophysiology systems, reliably recording real-time brain signals throughout the surgical procedures. "The ability to detect high-frequency neural activity with micrometer-scale precision opens new possibilities for understanding brain-tumor interactions and broader brain function in neuro-related disorders," said Mr. David Coope, Chief Investigator and Consultant Neurosurgeon at the Manchester Centre for Clinical Neurosciences, the Geoffrey Jefferson Brain Research Centre and the University of Manchester. "This technology could be transformative, not only for improving surgical outcomes but for unlocking new treatment pathways." Throughout the procedures, INBRAIN's BCI enabled high-resolution brain signal monitoring, addressing one of the most pressing challenges in neurosurgery: achieving precise tumor removal while preserving essential functions such as speech, movement, and cognition. The device was used in parallel with standard clinical monitoring tools, maintaining consistent performance across the surgical window. "This milestone demonstrates that graphene-based brain-computer interfaces can be deployed in the operating room and deliver a level of neural fidelity not achievable with traditional materials," said Carolina Aguilar, CEO and Co-Founder, INBRAIN Neuroelectronics. "We're moving toward a future where neurosurgeons and neurologists can rely on real-time, high-definition brain data to guide personalized interventions." INBRAIN's platform is powered by ultra-flexible, thin-film graphene semiconductors that conform more precisely to the brain surface than conventional strip electrodes. The BCI features high-density, multiscale, bidirectional contacts for superior decoding and modulation, and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanoporous matrices that enhance sensitivity and signal resolution. In preclinical studies, the GCI significantly outperformed platinum-based electrodes in detecting high gamma frequencies (80-130 Hz) critical for speech decoding, with statistical significance (p 0.01). Clinical Advantages Graphene technology offers several benefits for neurosurgical procedures. It enhances surgical precision by enabling smaller and more densely packed electrodes, allowing surgeons to define and preserve critical functional areas during tumor resection. Its flexibility enables accurate decoding and mapping in anatomically complex or hard-to-access brain regions, including the walls of the tumor resection cavity. Additionally, the device's ability to decode high-frequency activity offers huge scientific opportunities including the potential to reveal in situ interactions between glioma cells and neurons, offering potential insights into new therapeutic targets for halting tumor progression. "We're not delivering incremental innovation, we're enabling entirely new capabilities," said Kostas Kostarelos, Co-Founder of INBRAIN and Chief Scientific Investigator of the study and Professor of Nanomedicine at the University of Manchester, the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2) in Barcelona, and Programme Lead for the Next Generation Therapeutics Theme of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Manchester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC). "This convergence of advanced materials science, neuroscience, and AI is shaping the future of real-time, precision neurology." As the first safety study of a graphene-based neural interface in humans, this study marks a foundational step toward the development of BCI therapeutic systems for chronic neurological diseases, pioneering a new era of real-time, precision neurology. About INBRAIN Neuroelectronics INBRAIN Neuroelectronics is pioneering real-time precision neurology with the world's first graphene-based brain-computer interface (BCI) therapeutics platform. Our technology combines precise BCI decoding with micrometric modulation to deliver adaptive, personalized treatments for conditions such as Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and stroke rehabilitation. By providing continuous real-time monitoring and autonomous therapy adjustments, our AI-driven platform maximizes therapeutic outcomes while minimizing side effects. Through strategic collaborations, including with Merck KGAa and our subsidiary INNERVIA Bioelectronics, we are extending our innovative solutions to peripheral nerve and systemic disease applications, unlocking the potential of neurotechnology and bioelectronics. For more information, visit www.inbrain-neuroelectronics.com and follow us on LinkedIn. About Northern Care Alliance (NCA) Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust provides hospital and community healthcare services in Salford, Oldham, Bury and Rochdale. Our dedicated team of around 20,000 staff delivers high standards of care and experience excellence to over one million people across Greater Manchester and beyond, working together to save lives and improve lives. More information about the NCA can be found at www.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk About the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) The mission of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) is to improve the health and wealth of the nation through research. We do this by: Funding high quality, timely research that benefits the NHS, public health and social care; Investing in world-class expertise, facilities and a skilled delivery workforce to translate discoveries into improved treatments and services; Partnering with patients, service users, carers and communities, improving the relevance, quality and impact of our research; Attracting, training and supporting the best researchers to tackle complex health and social care challenges; Collaborating with other public funders, charities and industry to help shape a cohesive and globally competitive research system; Funding applied global health research and training to meet the needs of the poorest people in low and middle income countries. NIHR is funded by the Department of Health and Social Care. Its work in low and middle income countries is principally funded through UK international development funding from the UK government. About the NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) The NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) transforms scientific breakthroughs into diagnostic tests and life-saving treatments for patients. NIHR Biomedical Research Centres (BRCs) are collaborations between NHS organisations and universities. They bring together academics and clinicians to translate scientific discoveries into potential new treatments, diagnostics and technologies. Manchester BRC is hosted by Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and The University of Manchester in partnership with five NHS trusts; Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust. About The University of Manchester The University of Manchester is recognised globally for its pioneering research, outstanding teaching and learning, and commitment to social responsibility. The Russell Group institution is ranked the 6th best university in the UK and 38th in the world (Academic Ranking of World Universities). A truly international university, its community includes more than 44,000 students, 12,000 staff, and 500,000 alumni from 190 countries. Together, they are tackling the world's biggest challenges the University's social and environmental impact is ranked in the top ten globally (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings). The University is a powerhouse of research and discovery; 25 Nobel laureates are among its former staff and students; and it was ranked fifth for research power the quality and scale of research and impact in the UK government's Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021. The institution is the most popular in the UK for undergraduate applications (UCAS 2021 cycle), and it is the it is the most targeted university by the UK's leading employers (The Graduate Market, 2023). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250728135880/en/ Contacts: Media Kimberly Ha KKH Advisors 917-291-5744 kimberly.ha@kkhadvisors.com AMMAN, Jordan, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Equiti Group Limited (Jordan), a leading multi-asset broker and fintech provider, has partnered with the Greater Amman Municipality to launch a smart lighting project at Shmeisani Circle - one of the city's busiest commuter zones near the vibrant Abdali district. This community-first initiative is part of Equiti's broader belief that creating meaningful impact begins at the local level. As part of its ongoing commitment, Equiti has sponsored the installation of cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED lighting curbs at the high-traffic intersection of Queen Noor Street and Prince Shaker bin Zaid Street. The lighting, visible from over 300 metres, is designed to improve road safety, modernise urban infrastructure, and support Amman's sustainability goals for a smarter, greener capital. "This initiative reflects Equiti's commitment to active community engagement," said Lutfi Shahin, CEO of Equiti Jordan. "Through this collaboration with the Greater Amman Municipality Committee, we're proud to contribute to road safety and help enhance the beauty of the capital we love." The Greater Amman Municipality Committee has welcomed the initiative as a model for public-private collaboration, demonstrating how international companies can contribute to civic development through energy-efficient innovation and smart technology. The project was delivered in partnership with Majdi Murad, co-founder of Jordanian firm Paktechnologies Co., a pioneer in smart safety solutions. Murad's firm developed the "Light Curbstone Block" - a technology that combines aesthetics and function to elevate urban safety. "At Paktechnologies, we're proud to work with partners like Equiti who share our vision for building better cities," commented Murad. "Our invention, the Light Curbstone Block, is an aesthetic solution that also enhances road safety - and this partnership is a brilliant example of how businesses can support communities and create a lasting, meaningful impact." Situated at a key artery connecting Amman's business, retail and tourism districts, the newly lit Shmeisani Circle serves thousands of commuters daily - making the upgrade both a symbolic and practical improvement to the city's infrastructure. Equiti remains committed to supporting the long-term growth of Jordan and the communities it serves around the world, championing innovation and strong partnerships to build a brighter future. About Equiti Equiti Group is a global leader in advanced trading technology, payment software, virtual assets, asset management and physical commodity solutions. With a presence across Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East, the Group is licensed in major financial jurisdictions including the UK, UAE and Cyprus. The Group delivers a best-in-class financial experience to clients across retail, professional, and institutional segments. Learn more at www.equiti.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2606487/equiti_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/equiti-brings-smart-lighting-to-the-heart-of-amman-with-new-community-initiative-302514945.html Progress on share buyback programme ING announced today that, as part of our 2.0 billion share buyback programme announced on 2 May 2025, in total 2,532,172 shares were repurchased during the week of 21 July 2025 up to and including 25 July 2025. The shares were repurchased at an average price of 19.91 for a total amount of 50,406,975.82. For detailed information on the daily repurchased shares, individual share purchase transactions and weekly reports, see the ING website at www.ing.com/investorrelations. In line with the purpose of the programme to reduce the share capital of ING, the total number of shares repurchased under this programme to date is 50,130,132 at an average price of 18.57, for a total consideration of 930,745,897.82. To date approximately 46.54% of the maximum total value of the share buyback programme has been completed. Note for editors For further information on ING, please visit www.ing.com. Frequent news updates can be found in the Newsroom. Photos of ING operations, buildings and its executives are available for download at Flickr. Press enquiries Investor enquiries Raymond Vermeulen ING Group Investor Relations +31 20 576 5000 +31 20 576 6396 Raymond.Vermeulen@ing.com (mailto:Raymond.Vermeulen@ing.com) Investor.Relations@ing.com (mailto:Investor.Relations@ing.com) ING PROFILE ING is a global financial institution with a strong European base, offering banking services through its operating company ING Bank. The purpose of ING Bank is: empowering people to stay a step ahead in life and in business. ING Bank's more than 60,000 employees offer retail and wholesale banking services to customers in over 100 countries. ING Group shares are listed on the exchanges of Amsterdam (INGA NA, INGA.AS), Brussels and on the New York Stock Exchange (ADRs: ING US, ING.N). ING aims to put sustainability at the heart of what we do. Our policies and actions are assessed by independent research and ratings providers, which give updates on them annually. ING's ESG rating by MSCI was reconfirmed by MSCI as 'AA' in August 2024 for the fifth year. As of June 2025, in Sustainalytics' view, ING's management of ESG material risk is 'Strong' with an ESG risk rating of 18.0 (low risk). ING Group shares are also included in major sustainability and ESG index products of leading providers. Here are some examples: Euronext, STOXX, Morningstar and FTSE Russell. Society is transitioning to a low-carbon economy. So are our clients, and so is ING. We finance a lot of sustainable activities, but we still finance more that's not. Follow our progress on ing.com/climate. IMPORTANT LEGAL INFORMATION Elements of this press release contain or may contain information about ING Groep N.V. and/ or ING Bank N.V. within the meaning of Article 7(1) to (4) of EU Regulation No 596/2014 ('Market Abuse Regulation'). ING Group's annual accounts are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union ('IFRS- EU'). In preparing the financial information in this document, except as described otherwise, the same accounting principles are applied as in the 2024 ING Group consolidated annual accounts. All figures in this document are unaudited. Small differences are possible in the tables due to rounding. Certain of the statements contained herein are not historical facts, including, without limitation, certain statements made of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on management's current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to di?er materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Actual results, performance or events may di?er materially from those in such statements due to a number of factors, including, without limitation: This document may contain ESG-related material that has been prepared by ING on the basis of publicly available information, internally developed data and other third-party sources believed to be reliable. ING has not sought to independently verify information obtained from public and third-party sources and makes no representations or warranties as to accuracy, completeness, reasonableness or reliability of such information. Materiality, as used in the context of ESG, is distinct from, and should not be confused with, such term as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or as defined for Securities and Exchange Commission ('SEC') reporting purposes. Any issues identified as material for purposes of ESG in this document are therefore not necessarily material as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or for SEC reporting purposes. In addition, there is currently no single, globally recognized set of accepted definitions in assessing whether activities are "green" or "sustainable." Without limiting any of the statements contained herein, we make no representation or warranty as to whether any of our securities constitutes a green or sustainable security or conforms to present or future investor expectations or objectives for green or sustainable investing. For information on characteristics of a security, use of proceeds, a description of applicable project(s) and/or any other relevant information, please reference the offering documents for such security. This document may contain inactive textual addresses to internet websites operated by us and third parties. Reference to such websites is made for information purposes only, and information found at such websites is not incorporated by reference into this document. ING does not make any representation or warranty with respect to the accuracy or completeness of, or take any responsibility for, any information found at any websites operated by third parties. ING specifically disclaims any liability with respect to any information found at websites operated by third parties. ING cannot guarantee that websites operated by third parties remain available following the publication of this document, or that any information found at such websites will not change following the filing of this document. Many of those factors are beyond ING's control. Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of ING speak only as of the date they are made, and ING assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or for any other reason. This document does not constitute an o?er to sell, or a solicitation of an o?er to purchase, any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction. Attachment Ende Mai leitete US-Prasident Donald Trump mit der Unterzeichnung mehrerer Dekrete eine weitreichende Wende in der amerikanischen Energiepolitik ein. Im Fokus: der beschleunigte Ausbau der Kernenergie. Mit einem umfassenden Manahmenpaket sollen Genehmigungsprozesse reformiert, kleinere Reaktoren gefordert und der Anteil von Atomstrom in den USA massiv gesteigert werden. Ausloser ist der explodierende Energiebedarf durch KI-Rechenzentren, der eine stabile, CO-arme Grundlastversorgung zwingend notwendig macht. In unserem kostenlosen Spezialreport erfahren Sie, welche 3 Unternehmen jetzt im Zentrum dieser energiepolitischen Neuausrichtung stehen, und wer vom kommenden Boom der Nuklearindustrie besonders profitieren konnte. Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Verpassen Sie nicht, welche Aktien besonders von der Energiewende in den USA profitieren durften, und laden Sie sich das Gratis-PDF jetzt kostenlos herunter. Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden! THE INFORMATION CONTAINED WITHIN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS DEEMED BY THE COMPANY TO CONSTITUTE INSIDE INFORMATION AS STIPULATED UNDER THE MARKET ABUSE REGULATION (REGULATION 596/2014/EU) AS IT FORMS PART OF UK DOMESTIC LAW PURSUANT TO THE EUROPEAN UNION (WITHDRAWAL) ACT 2018, AS AMENDED. UPON PUBLICATION OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT VIA A REGULATORY INFORMATION SERVICE, THIS INSIDE INFORMATION IS NOW CONSIDERED TO BE IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN. CALGARY, AB / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Southern Energy Corp. ("Southern" or the "Company") (TSXV:SOU)(AIM:SOUC), an established producer with natural gas and light oil assets in Mississippi, is pleased to announce the preliminary results from its recent Lower Selma Chalk ("LSC") horizontal well completion in the Gwinville Field. In late June 2025, Southern successfully completed the first of its three remaining drilled but uncompleted ("DUC") horizontal wells from the Q1 2023 drilling program, the GH LSC 13-13 #2 wellbore. Over the first 30 days of production, the well averaged natural gas rates of 3.6 MMcfe/d (99% gas). This is an increase of > 100% compared to the average of the original LSC horizontal wells in Gwinville that were drilled and completed by previous operators. The well has been flowing directly to Company facilities with all gas sold since June 26, 2025. Southern safely and efficiently stimulated the well with 25 fracture stages, placing over 5.3 million lbs of proppant into the wellbore. This is a 70% increase in proppant intensity compared to the original LSC horizontal wells at Gwinville. Southern implemented targeted stimulation design changes for this first LSC horizontal completion that improved the predictability and speed of the fracture operations, and most importantly, reduced the overall completion cost down to US$2.2 million which is over 10% below pre-job estimates. Additionally, water flowback rates from the LSC reservoir have been over 70% lower than Southern's Upper Selma Chalk horizontal wells, which translates into significant initial operating cost savings of ~ $0.20/Mcfe, further improving capital returns. With these further cost improvements, the Company now estimates the total capital required to drill, complete, tie-in and equip capital for future Gwinville LSC horizontal wells to be approximately $4.0 million - a reduction of over 20% from previous management estimates and significantly below the $5.0 million estimates in the Company's third-party reserve report(1). Based on a revised LSC type curve with an IP30 rate of 3.6 MMcf/d and a capital cost of $4.0 million, Southern calculates a break-even (15% IRR) at a Henry Hub price of $3.70/MMBtu. This is consistent with previous estimates that assumed higher initial production rates and higher costs and remains competitive with other dry natural gas plays. Southern will continue to monitor both regional natural gas pricing and well performance from the GH LSC 13-13 #2 over the upcoming months before making a decision on the completion timing of the remaining two DUC wells and will update the market at that time. The remaining two DUC wellbores have been drilled in the LSC and City Bank formations. Ian Atkinson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Southern, commented: "We are very pleased with the early flowback results of the GH LSC 13-13 #2 well that will help us establish a long-awaited type curve for the remaining potential 60+ LSC horizontal locations in our vast Gwinville inventory. We expect the lower decline from the LSC reservoir to support the ~ 3.5 Bcfe recovery per well predicted by both management and our third-party reserve evaluator. The Southern operations team has safely executed this operation at 10% below our original completion estimate, which not only drives a much quicker payout on this capital but will also allow Southern to start redeveloping the Gwinville Field much sooner as natural gas prices are still expected to improve materially into the back half of 2025 and continue into 2026. From a revenue generation perspective, since bringing these significant new production volumes on-line in late June with minimal incremental operating costs, Southern has also greatly benefited from a daily natural gas basis premium of approximately 17% above Henry Hub pricing due to the start of warmer seasonal temperatures and associated natural gas fired power demand in the southeast U.S. which we expect to continue or improve throughout the summer. We look forward to providing these improved cash flow results from additional Q3 volumes in November 2025." Qualified Person's Statement Gary McMurren, Chief Operating Officer, who has over 24 years of relevant experience in the oil industry, has approved the technical information contained in this announcement. Mr. McMurren is registered as a Professional Engineer with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering (with distinction) from the University of Alberta. For further information about Southern, please visit our website at www.southernenergycorp.com or contact: Southern Energy Corp. Ian Atkinson (President and CEO) +1 587 287 5401 Calvin Yau (CFO) +1 587 287 5402 Strand Hanson Limited - Nominated & Financial Adviser +44 (0) 20 7409 3494 James Bellman / Rob Patrick / Edward Foulkes Tennyson Securities - Joint Broker +44 (0) 20 7186 9033 Peter Krens / Jason Woollard About Southern Energy Corp. Southern Energy Corp. is a natural gas exploration and production company characterized by a stable, low-decline production base, a significant low-risk drilling inventory and strategic access to premium commodity pricing in North America. Southern has a primary focus on acquiring and developing conventional natural gas and light oil resources in the southeast Gulf States of Mississippi, Louisiana, and East Texas. Our management team has a long and successful history working together and have created significant shareholder value through accretive acquisitions, optimization of existing oil and natural gas fields and the utilization of re-development strategies utilizing horizontal drilling and multi-staged fracture completion techniques. READER ADVISORY Product Types. Throughout this press release, "crude oil" or "oil" refers to light and medium crude oil product types as defined by NI 51-101. References to "natural gas" throughout this press release refers to conventional natural gas as defined by NI 51-101. Unit Cost Calculation. For the purpose of calculating unit costs, natural gas volumes have been converted to a barrel of oil equivalent ("boe") using six thousand cubic feet equal to one barrel unless otherwise stated. A boe conversion ratio of 6:1 is based upon an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. This conversion conforms with NI 51-101. Boe may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. MCFE Disclosure. Natural gas liquids volumes are recorded in barrels of oil (bbl) and are converted to a thousand cubic feet equivalent (Mcfe) using a ratio of six (6) thousand cubic feet to one (1) barrel of oil (bbl). Natural gas volumes recorded in thousand cubic feet (Mcf) are converted to barrels of oil equivalent (boe) using the ratio of six (6) thousand cubic feet to one (1) barrel of oil (bbl). Mcfe and boe may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of 6 mcf:1 bbl or a Mcfe conversion ratio of 1 bbl:6 Mcf is based in an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. In addition, given that the value ratio based on the current price of oil as compared with natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalent of six to one, utilizing a boe conversion ratio of 6 Mcf:1 bbl or a Mcfe conversion ratio of 1 bbl:6 Mcf may be misleading as an indication of value. Short Term Results. References in this press release to peak rates, production rates since inception, current production rates, initial 30-day productions rates and IP30 and other short-term production rates are useful in confirming the presence of hydrocarbons, however such rates are not determinative of the rates at which such wells will commence production and decline thereafter and are not indicative of long-term performance or of ultimate recovery. While encouraging, readers are cautioned not to place reliance on such rates in calculating the aggregate production of Southern. The Company cautions that such results should be considered to be preliminary. Type Curves. Certain type curves disclosure presented herein represent estimates of the production decline and ultimate volumes expected to be recovered from wells over the life of the well. The type curves represent what management thinks an average well will achieve. Individual wells may be higher or lower but over a larger number of wells, management expects the average to come out to the type curve. Over time, type curves can and will change based on achieving more production history on older wells or more recent completion information on newer wells. Forward Looking Statements. Certain information included in this press release constitutes forward-looking information under applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "plan", "intend", "estimate", "propose", "project", "budget", "continue", "evaluate", "forecast", "may", "will", "can", "target" "potential", "result", "could", "should" or similar words (including negatives or variations thereof) suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. Forward-looking information in this press release may include, but is not limited to, statements concerning: anticipated capital required to drill, complete, tie-in and equip capital for future Gwinville LSC horizontal wells; expectations regarding future natural gas pricing; expectations in respect of the remaining two DUC wells; expectations regarding improved cash flows from Q3 volumes; and economic assumptions such as IRR and break-even pricing.The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by Southern. Although Southern believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because Southern can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks, including other risks are set out in Southern's latest Management Discussion and Analysis for the period ended March 31, 2025 and the Company's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024, which are available on the Company's website at www.southernenergycorp.com and filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof and Southern undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Abbreviations. Please see below for a list of abbreviations used in this press release. bbl barrels bbl/d barrels per day Bcfe billion cubic feet equivalent bcf/d billion cubic feet per day boe barrels of oil IP30 average hydrocarbon production rate for the first 30 days of a well's life Mcf thousand cubic feet Mcfe thousand cubic feet equivalent Mcf/d thousand cubic feet per day Mcfe/d thousand cubic feet equivalent per day MMcf/d million cubic feet per day MMcfe/d million cubic feet equivalent per day MMBtu million British thermal units NI 51-101 National Instrument 51-101 Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (1) Based on the Netherland, Sewell and Associates, Inc. report dated December 31, 2024 - Total Proved plus Probable estimate SOURCE: Southern Energy Corp. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/oil-gas-and-energy/southern-energy-corp.-announces-gwinville-lower-selma-chalk-completion-results-1054146 Completion of Hole C marks deepest drilled depth to-date VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Star Copper Corp. (CSE:STCU)(OTCQX:STCUF)(FWB:SOP) ("Star Copper" or the "Company"), a critical minerals exploration and development company, is pleased to summarize the latest activity at the ongoing drill program at its flagship Star Project located within the Golden Triangle of British Columbia. Recognized as one of the most geologically endowed regions in the province, this fully funded campaign is focused on expanding the existing discovery across the Star Project. Company CEO Darryl Jones notes, "Our exploration team have advised us that together with results from Hole A (S-050), and copper-gold grades in historic holes (e.g., S-037), that the recently completed Hole C builds confidence in the continuity of copper mineralization at depth and supports the presence of a robust porphyry Cu (Au) system across the broader deposit." The 2025 drill campaign has been designed to test both the lateral and vertical continuity of mineralized zones previously identified from over $10 million in prior drilling and exploration campaigns. Drilling encompasses targets identified as near-surface oxide zones, deep porphyry-style mineralization, and structures associated with the "Star Fault" and "Dick Creek Fault." The Company is investigating beyond previously drilled depths and is nearing the midway point of up to 4,000 meters of drilling across six primary drill holes (Holes A-F) with holes A, B and C now complete with select samples regularly being prepped and transported for assaying. The Company has recently completed the drilling of Hole C (S-052) which was positioned ~100 metres north of Hole A (S-050), and 50 metres north of Hole B (S-051) to step out and verify copper continuity in the near-surface quartz monzodiorite. The hole further tested the Star Fault (~275m) and deeper high-grade gold intervals intersected in historic hole S-037 (12m @2.33g/t at 650m - 339712mE 6458422mN 000/-90). From surface to 70m, the hole remains largely within quartz monzodiorite, where pervasive oxidation and malachite-azurite coatings overprinting chalcopyrite forming a supergene zone similar to that seen in S-050. Below the oxide cap, primary chalcopyrite mineralization occurs as disseminations and within quartz-sulphide veinlets, with elevated chalcopyrite percentages up to 1% associated with potassic (K-feldspar) alteration halos and localized vein-breccia zones (See Figure 1). Figure 1-Hole C (S-052) at 34.9m. Star Copper 2025 The Star Fault was intersected from 255-276m, where gouge/clay-rich fault material influences structural control on mineralization. From ~350-550m, additional chalcopyrite mineralization was discontinuously encountered in association with strong silicification and brecciation within an alternating sequence of lithic tuff, cherty laminated sediments, and intrusive porphyry units. Hole C (S-052) represents the deepest drillhole to date on the Star property, reaching a total depth of 674m in a plagioclase phyric andesite (See Figure 2). Figure 2-Hole C (S-052) at 420.18m. Star Copper 2025 Overall, Hole C (S-052) confirms consistent chalcopyrite mineralization within the quartz monzodiorite phase above the Star fault, extends the northern supergene copper footprint, and strengthens the link between potassic alteration, fault architecture, and elevated chalcopyrite tenor at Star Main. Table 1 - Star 2025 Collar Table UTM 9N Hole_ID UTM_E UTM_N ELEV_M AZIMUTH DIP Depth S_050 339834 6458308 1124 270 -85 101 S_051 339770 6458307 1120 235 -85 539 S_052 339850 6458406 1153 240 -83 674 "We have 3 more holes to go while our surface fieldwork remains ongoing," notes Company CEO Jones. The overall work-to-date continues to build increasing certainty for a significant deposit at Star. As assay results are provided in the coming weeks, we look forward to advancing towards our goal for a regulatory compliant valuation of the entire project. Continued drilling in upcoming campaigns is now possible through our recently extended Multi-Year Area-Based (MYAB) exploration permits which allow for up to 200 holes, 5km of roads, and continued trenching and surface work across the property. The net result of all this effort should positively impact the Company's ability to source future capital to continue building shareholder value at this exciting project." Marketing Update Additionally, the Company is pleased to announce that it entered into an updated consulting services agreement dated effective as of June 28, 2025, with Upswitch Media Corp. ("Upswitch") to provide the Company with certain marketing and investor relations services to expand awareness of the Company's business and to communicate with the investment community. The services may include, among other things, engaging copywriters, designing ad content and campaigns promoting the Company, providing translation services, onboarding ad campaigns with publishers, tracking, organizing and executing the services through testing and analytic studies. The services will be provided and disseminated through a variety of news and investment community on-line communications channels and may further include print publications where applicable. Upswitch will commence providing the services immediately for an initial term of 30 days. In consideration of the services, and pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreement, the Company has agreed to pay Upswitch an aggregate fee of $500,000. Jeff Gillis, the principal of Upswitch, is located at 2709B 43rd Ave., Suite 1013, in the city of Vernon in the province of British Columbia and will act as primary representative and service coordinator. Mr. Gillis may be contacted at 1-604-373-5875 and info@upswitchmedia.com. To the best of the Company's knowledge, Upswitch and Mr. Gillis do not currently own securities in the capital of the Company Qualified Person Jeremy Hanson, P. Geo., a Qualified Person as that term is defined under NI 43-101, is an independent contractor of the Company and has reviewed and approved the technical aspects of this news release. On Behalf of the Board of Directors ~Darryl Jones~ Darryl Jones CEO, President & Director Star Copper Corp. About Star Copper Corp. (CSE:STCU)(OTCQX:STCUF)(FWB: SOP / WKN A416ME) Star Copper Corp. is an exploration and development company focused on developing high-potential copper projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions. The Company aims to advance its British Columbian flagship Star Project where significant exploration work including historical drilling has confirmed open mineralization at depth and in all directions. Star Copper's strategic plans include geological mapping and geophysical surveys to refine existing targets,diamond drilling programs to test high-priority zones, environmental baseline studies and permitting groundwork alongside data analysis and resource modeling to support a future resource estimate prepared in accordance with NI 43-101. The Company further plans to advance its Indata Project with follow-up drilling to expand on previous high-grade copper and gold intercepts, trenching and surface sampling to delineate mineralized zones, and infrastructure improvements for site accessibility and operations. With a commitment to sustainable development and value creation, Star Copper aims to position itself to support surging industrial demand to meet growing global electrification needs. For more information visit: www.starcopper.com and to sign up for free news alerts please go to https://starcopper.com/news/news-alerts/, or follow us on X (formerly Twitter),Facebook or LinkedIn. More information in respect of the project, including historical drilling, is available under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and/or in the Company's February 26, 2025 technical report. Investor Relations Star Copper Corp. Email: info@starcopper.com Web: https://starcopper.com/ Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipate", "expects" and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding exploration of the Company's flagship Star Project and the potential thereof. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include, but are not limited to, the early stage nature of the Star Project, the inherently unpredictable nature of resource exploration, market conditions and the risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect, and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward- looking statements as expressly required by applicable law. SOURCE: Star Copper Corp. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/star-copper-gains-confidence-for-robust-porphyry-system-at-depth-across-star-depo-1053938 THIS ANNOUNCEMENT CONTAINS INSIDE INFORMATION AS STIPULATED UNDER THE UK VERSION OF THE MARKET ABUSE REGULATION NO 596/2014 WHICH IS PART OF ENGLISH LAW BY VIRTUE OF THE EUROPEAN (WITHDRAWAL) ACT 2018, AS AMENDED. ON PUBLICATION OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT VIA A REGULATORY INFORMATION SERVICE, THIS INFORMATION IS CONSIDERED TO BE IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN. Hemogenyx Secures 250,000 to continue its Phase 1 Clinical Trials And Director's Dealing LONDON, UK / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Introduction Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals plc (LSE:HEMO) is pleased to announce that it has raised gross proceeds of 250,000 via an allotment to Vladislav Sandler of 133,690 new ordinary shares of 0.01 each ("New Ordinary Shares") at an issue price of 187p, representing a premium to the present market price (the "Issue Price"). The net proceeds of this fundraise will be dedicated to the continuation of the Phase I clinical trials for the Company's Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy ("HG-CT-1"), aimed at treating relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia in adults ("R/R AML"). As shareholders will be aware, the first two patients have now been treated with HG-CT-1 with the four-week safety trials successfully completed and with encouraging early signs of efficacity. Issuance of the New Ordinary Shares The Company is currently unable to issue and admit New Ordinary Shares without either the publication of an FCA approved prospectus or relying upon an exemption to the requirement to issue a prospectus. Consequently, this fundraise involves the agreement by Vladislav Sandler, CEO and director of the Company, to subscribe for the New Ordinary Shares at the Issue Price pursuant to the employee offer exemption under Article 1(4)(i) and 1(5) (h) of the UK Prospectus Regulation. Following allotment of the New Ordinary Shares, Vladislav Sandler has agreed to direct their issue to a small group of individual investors who made an approach wishing to make a new investment in the Company; they will acquire the Subscription Shares from Mr Sandler at the price of 187p per share. Warrants Concurrent with the purchase of the New Ordinary Shares, the new investor group will receive warrants from the Company on a one-for-one basis. These warrants will be exercisable for a period of 36 months at an exercise price of 187p ("Exercise Price"), subject to adjustment in certain circumstances as set out in the warrant instrument including a reset of the Exercise Price if the Company completes a share issuance (or other transaction granting rights to subscribe for equity securities) during the Exercise Period at a price lower than the Exercise Price. Total Voting Rights Application will be made for the 133,690 New Ordinary Shares, which will rank pari passu in all respects with the existing Ordinary Shares of the Company, to be admitted to theFCA official list and to trading on the equity shares (transition) category of the Official List maintained by the FCA and to trading on the main market for listed securities of the LSE, which is expected to occur on or around 8.00 a.m. on 7 August 2025 ("Admission"). Upon Admission, the total number of issued shares and the total number of voting rights in the Company will be 4,727,229. ?The above figure of 4,727,229 should be used by shareholders in the Company as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in, the share capital of the Company under the Financial Conduct Authority's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules. The Company will keep the market informed of future developments as trials proceed. Dr Vladislav Sandler, CEO & Co-Founder of Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals, commented: "We are pleased to have attracted funding from this group of investors at a premium to the current price - this reflects their confidence in the progress made by the Company to date and in the long-term prospects of Hemogenyx. The fact that the raise was completed at a premium to the market price demonstrates this confidence and shows that they see considerable upside potential in our share price as we advance HG-CT-1 through clinical development. ." UK Market Abuse Regulation (UK MAR) Disclosure Certain information contained in this announcement would have been inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of Regulation No 596/2014 (as it forms part of UK domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018) until the release of this announcement. The person responsible for arranging for the release of this announcement on behalf of Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals plc is Dr Vladislav Sandler, Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder. Director's Dealing Notification 1. Details of the person discharging managerial responsibilities / person closely associated a) Name Vladislav Sandler 2. Reason for the Notification a) Position/status PDMR b) Initial notification / Amendment Initial notification 3. Details of the issuer, emission allowance market participant, auction platform, auctioneer or auction monitor a) Name Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals plc b) LEI 2138008L93GYU5GN6179 4. Details of the transaction(s): section to be repeated for (i) each type of instrument; (ii) each type of transaction; (iii) each date; and (iv) each place where transactions have been conducted a) Description of the Financial instrument, type of instrument Ordinary Shares of 0.01 Identification Code GB00BQVXM815 b) Nature of the transaction Off Market Allotment c) Price(s) and volume(s) Price(s) Volume(s) 187 pence per Ordinary Share 133,690 Ordinary Shares d) Aggregated information: Aggregated volume Price 133,690 Ordinary Shares 187 pence per Ordinary Share e) Date of the transaction 29 July 2025 f) Place of the transaction London Enquiries: Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals plc https://hemogenyx.com Dr Vladislav Sandler, Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder headquarters@hemogenyx.com Peter Redmond, Director peter.redmond@hemogenyx.com SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP Tel: +44 (0)20 3470 0470 Matthew Johnson, Vadim Alexandre, Adam Cowl Peterhouse Capital Limited Tel: +44 (0)20 7469 0930 Lucy Williams, Duncan Vasey, Charles Goodfellow About Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals plc Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals is a publicly traded company (LSE: HEMO) headquartered in London, with its US operating subsidiaries, Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals LLC and Immugenyx LLC, located in New York City . The Company is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical group developing new medicines and treatments to treat blood and autoimmune diseases. Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals is developing several distinct and complementary product candidates, as well as platform technologies that it uses as engines for novel product development. This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com. SOURCE: Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals PLC View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/hemogenyx-pharmaceuticals-plc-announces-placing-to-raise-%c2%a3250-000-and-1054156 New preliminary research supported by Kinder at the Institute for the Science of Early Years (ISEY) at the University of East London explores how play ignites language skills, builds emotional connection, and bridges family disconnect To underpin its global Value of Play initiative, Kinder has convened a panel of leading academic and clinical experts to research how play supports active learning and development LUXEMBOURG, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In countries across the world, as parents will be preparing for the school holidays ahead, Kinder is releasing findings of new preliminary research conducted by the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London (UEL), which reveals the extraordinary power of shared play in strengthening family bonds. Supported by Kinder, one of the most beloved Ferrero brands, this study used state-of-the-art wearable technology worn by children and family members to capture real-time emotional and physical dynamics during in-home play sessions. The research explores how simple moments of play spark joy, encourage language, reduce stress and nurture emotional wellbeing. "Our early studies reveal a striking pattern: many families often share the same physical space, but mentally they are miles apart - one child immersed in a video game, another focused on a toy, and a third lost in drawing. While solitary play has important benefits for children's independence and creativity, our research shows how shared play can weave families into a unified dynamic. Through shared play, we see family relationships come alive." said Sam Wass, Director of the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London, "Our research is looking at the ways play encourages children to form deeper bonds with their siblings and parents, leading to more connected speech patterns and movement patterns within families. Even more remarkable, our research suggests that play might affect the synchronization of families' moods and stress levels, highlighting play's powerful role in emotional connection and collective well-being. I'm looking forward to seeing how Kinder's ongoing research with the Value of Play panel will continue to unearth new insights and areas for exploration." These initial results pave the way for further analysis by researchers at the University of East London and Kinder. Their continued work will explore how joint play influences children's long-term emotional well-being and stress regulation by strengthening inter-connectedness within families. Kinder Value of Play panel: ongoing global research A panel of leading academic and clinical experts has been established to look into the benefits of play in childhood development. For the past year, four internationally recognised experts have been conducting independent research studies on how spontaneous and joyful play contributes to children's growth - with a particular emphasis on emotional and social development, as well as imagination. The Value of Play panellists are: Sam Wass , Director of the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London , Director of the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London Dr Elizabeth Kilbey , Consultant in Clinical Psychology , Consultant in Clinical Psychology Victoria Murphy , Professor of Applied Linguistics and Director of Department of Education at the University of Oxford , Professor of Applied Linguistics and Director of Department of Education at the University of Oxford Lynn Ang, Professor of Early Childhood Education, University College London By promoting the importance of play, Kinder aims to foster a culture where play is valued and prioritised. "At Kinder, we aim at contributing to a society that values time spent in play. We are captivated by the transformative power of play, its ability to foster children's development joyfully and its role in strengthening family bonds. This new global initiative fills me with pride, as it deepens Kinder's collaboration with experts within this field" said Emiliano Laricchiuta, Global President of Kinder at Ferrero Group. "Together, we will continue to delve into the profound benefits of play on early childhood development. The research insights will be available for parents and families and will also guide the development of our toys and play experiences to be engaging and fun but also rooted in scientific insights. This way, both children and parents can enjoy and benefit from play in ways that are backed by research." Additional research findings from the expert panel will be released later in 2025 and into 2026 and made available on Kinder.com. Upcoming research includes: The Power of Play (PoP) Study: Understanding the Role and Value of Play in Supporting Early Learning and Development, a systematic review and qualitative research conducted by University College London, Institute of Education. The research explores how play - especially loose-part play and play interactions - support early learning, with a focus on social and emotional development. Understanding the Role and Value of Play in Supporting Early Learning and Development, a systematic review and qualitative research conducted by University College London, Institute of Education. The research explores how play - especially loose-part play and play interactions - support early learning, with a focus on social and emotional development. Young children's learning through digital technology, including the role of AI Insights from the LiFT project (Learning for Families Through Technology). The partnership between Ferrero International, Gameloft and the Department of Education at the University of Oxford is now in its sixth year, using Kinder's Applaydu platform as a research tool to explore how digital technology and mobile applications can support children's learning - with a focus on creativity and literacy. For more information please click here. Notes to Editors About Ferrero Ferrero began its journey as a pastry shop in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world's largest sweet-packaged food companies, with much loved brands sold in more than 170 countries. The Ferrero Group brings joy to people around the world with much-loved products including Nutella, Kinder, Tic Tac, and Ferrero Rocher. About 47,000 employees are passionate about helping people celebrate life's special moments. The Ferrero Group's family culture, now in its third generation, is based on dedication to quality and excellence, heritage and a commitment to the planet and communities in which we operate. To receive the latest news and stories, subscribe to our newsletter here. For more information, please visit?www.ferrero.com About Kinder Chocolate The Kinder brand was founded in 1968 and is inspired by bringing small but special moments to everyday life. Kinder creates innovative products made for sharing, family and togetherness across all ages. Kinder products include Kinder Surprise, Kinder Chocolate and Kinder Bueno. About ISEY (The Institute for the Science of Early Years) The Institute for the Science of Early Years (ISEY) is based in East London, in one of the most socio-demographically diverse regions in the world. We have developed innovative, world-leading methods to study how early environments shape early development. We use these insights to provide consultancy, training, and policy advice. About the University of East London (UEL) Founded in 1898, the University of East London is a careers-led university at the heart of London's Docklands, preparing students for the jobs of the future. UEL is committed to driving positive change in its local and global communities. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/kinder-and-university-of-east-london-explore-how-shared-play-strengthens-emotional-bonds-in-families-302515110.html Press Release Eviden to deploy a 5G Mobile Private Network at Port of Ploce Ploce, Croatia - July 29, 2025 - Eviden, the Atos Groupproduct brand leading in advanced computing, cybersecurity products, mission-critical systems and vision AI, today announces that it has been awarded a strategic contract to deploy a 5G Mobile Private Network featuring key components of its Lifelink solution at the Port of Ploce in Croatia. This initiative marks a major step in the port's digital transformation journey through the ambitious Smart Port project, aimed at modernizing logistics, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing security using cutting-edge 5G technology. The Port of Ploce serves as a critical logistics hub in Central and Southeastern Europe, and the deployment of a dedicated 5G network will enable seamless, real-time connectivity across port operations. The project is being delivered in collaboration with local partner Markoja. "This implementation is a pivotal move toward smarter, safer and more connected port operations to support the Port of Ploce's digital agenda", said Sandi Marusic, Head of Eviden, Atos Group, in Croatia. "We are proud to bring our industry-proven Lifelink solution designed to deliver secure, high-performance connectivity for mission-critical environments", said Lionel Toullier, Global Head of Critical-Communication Solutions, Eviden, Atos Group. "Through this agreement, we will significantly enhance and digitalize processes within the port area. This will ultimately enable better traffic management, increase efficiency in the transport of goods and passengers, improve safety in cargo transport and port operations, and reduce pollution," said Tomislav Batur,Director of the Port of Ploce Authority. The Lifelink 5G Mobile Private Network key components deployed by Eviden's critical communications experts, support: Real-time location system (RTLS): Enables accurate tracking of ships and vehicles, improves traffic, mooring and parking management within the port, and increases security by preventing unauthorized access. Enables accurate tracking of ships and vehicles, improves traffic, mooring and parking management within the port, and increases security by preventing unauthorized access. Advanced cargo monitoring: Implementation of smart cameras and sensors for automated cargo identification and analytics, improving the safety and efficiency of terminal operations. Implementation of smart cameras and sensors for automated cargo identification and analytics, improving the safety and efficiency of terminal operations. Incident prevention and management: Deployment of thermal cameras, fire sensors, and air and sea quality measurement sensors, along with a local weather station, to strengthen safety protocols and emergency response capabilities. Deployment of thermal cameras, fire sensors, and air and sea quality measurement sensors, along with a local weather station, to strengthen safety protocols and emergency response capabilities. Drone surveillance: The 5G private network will also support real-time drone operations for cargo and infrastructure monitoring. About Lifelink: Eviden's Lifelinksolution is specifically designed for mission-critical environments. It offers: Secure and resilient communication Low-latency, high-throughput connectivity Integration with IoT, AI, and edge computing Custom engineering for complex operational landscapes Proven success of its Lifelink solution in defense, energy and utilities now leads Eviden to expand into large-scale infrastructure projects in the transport and manufacturing sectors. *** About Eviden Eviden is the Atos Group brand for hardware and software products with c. 1 billion in revenue, operating in 36 countries and comprising four business units: advanced computing, cybersecurity products, mission-critical systems and vision AI. As a next-generation technology leader, Eviden offers a unique combination of hardware and software technologies for businesses, public sector and defense organizations and research institutions, helping them to create value out of their data. Bringing together more than 4,500 world-class talents and holding more than 2,100 patents, Eviden provides a strong portfolio of innovative and eco-efficient solutions in AI, computing, security, data and applications. About Atos Group Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands - Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris. The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space. Press contacts Atos Group: Isabelle Grange | isabelle.grange@atos.net| +33 (0) 6 64 56 74 88 Eviden: Ivana Sotonica | ivana.sotonica@eviden.com| +385 91 2867 163 Attachment Procitajte ovu objavu na hrvatskom na www.identiflight.com/blog/oikon. LOUISVILLE, Colo., July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Boulder Imaging has partnered with Oikon Ltd., Croatia's leading environmental consultancy, to bring AI-powered bird protection technology to wind farms across Southeast Europe. Through the deployment of Boulder Imaging's IdentiFlight system, the partnership supports the growing demand for sustainable wind development while also protecting biodiversity. As Croatia ramps up renewable energy under the European Green Deal, strict permitting requirements now mandate detailed environmental impact assessments, particularly for wind farms near Natura 2000 sites. IdentiFlight's real-time bird detection and automated turbine curtailment capabilities help developers meet these standards, reducing permitting risk while protecting high-concern species such as Eurasian griffons, honey buzzards, short-toed snake eagles, golden eagles, and kestrels. "IdentiFlight is a proven solution that aligns with our mission to harmonize development with nature conservation," said Dalibor Hatic, general manager of Oikon Ltd. "We're excited to bring this cutting-edge technology to Croatia and the broader Southeast European region where wind energy is expanding and biodiversity protection is critical. Our goal is to ensure that wind development can thrive without compromising our common natural heritage." "Partnering with Oikon Ltd. enhances our ability to deliver conservation-driven technology where it's most needed," said Don Mills, President and Chief Operating Officer of Boulder Imaging. "Together, we're advancing the role of AI in biodiversity protection and accelerating responsible wind energy growth in Croatia and beyond." With more than 520 systems deployed across five continents, IdentiFlight has reduced bird fatalities by over 85% while maintaining a power generation loss of less than 1% in wind farms. The first systems in Croatia are planned for 2026, with an initial focus on sensitive migratory corridors and ecologically valuable terrain. AI that protects biodiversity. Ecology that drives progress. To learn more about IdentiFlight's AI-powered bird protection technology, visit www.identiflight.com. To explore Oikon's environmental expertise, visit www.oikon.hr. About Boulder Imaging Founded in 1995, Boulder Imaging develops and delivers innovative machine vision and artificial intelligence solutions that redefine quality assurance. With unmatched speed, accuracy, and scalability, its inspection systems address complex challenges in industries such as renewable energy, automotive, architectural products, and security paper. Headquartered in Colorado, Boulder Imaging is dedicated to advancing machine vision technology to meet global inspection needs. For more information, visit www.boulderimaging.com. About Oikon Ltd. - Institute of Applied Ecology Oikon Ltd. - Institute of Applied Ecology is Croatia's leading licensed environmental consultancy, offering integrated solutions in environmental protection, nature protection, natural resource management, environmental law and legislation, and sustainability services. Since 1997, Oikon has supported public institutions, developers, development banks and conservation organizations in aligning economic development with ecological sustainability, in line with Croatian legislation and EU directives. In addition to its leadership in Croatia, Oikon provides expert services across Southeast Europe, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, Kosovo, Cyprus and Turkey, delivering regional solutions that reflect global environmental standards. For more information, visit www.oikon.hr. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/aab070b8-b89d-4704-b2f7-5de9fccb55f6 CONTACT INFORMATION Tawney Eisenbraun Marketing and Communications Manager sales@identiflight.com Papendrecht, 29 July 2025 Boskalis and Allseas are pleased to announce that their 50/50 consortium has been awarded a large contract by CPC Corporation Taiwan for the second offshore gas pipeline from Yongan to Tongxiao (YT2). The total contract value is approximately EUR 1.2 billion. This landmark energy project is intended to support the acceleration of energy transition in Taiwan and improve the gas supply capacity in northern Taiwan. Under the contract, the consortium will design, construct, install and pre-commission the new YT2 36-inch offshore natural gas pipeline, which will run approximately 232 kilometers parallel to the existing YT1 pipeline, connecting the Yongan LNG terminal in the Southwest with the Tongxiao transfer station in the Northwest. The comprehensive scope of work includes trenching, pipeline installation with 34 crossings over existing and future infrastructure and assets, backfilling and two landfalls. Within the consortium, Boskalis will be responsible for the landfalls and associated microtunnelling activities, as well as nearshore and offshore trenching, backfilling, and the installation of rocks for the 34 pipeline crossings. For these activities, Boskalis will deploy two large hopper dredgers, a large backhoe dredger, and a subsea rock installation vessel. Allseas will carry out the pipeline installation and pre-commissioning, including the pre-lay installation of concrete mattresses. For these activities, Allseas will deploy two of the most advanced pipelay vessels in the industry. This project demonstrates Boskalis' and Allseas' commitment to supporting the development of critical energy infrastructure and reinforces their leading position in the offshore sector. By delivering this project in close cooperation with CPC Corporation Taiwan, the consortium will play a key role in enhancing the reliability and security of natural gas supply for the region. Project execution is scheduled to commence in 2026, with completion anticipated in 2028. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION Martijn L.D. Schuttevaer press@boskalis.com T +31 786969310 ? About Boskalis Boskalis is a leading global services provider operating in the dredging, maritime infrastructure and maritime services sectors. The company provides creative and innovative all-round solutions to infrastructural challenges in the maritime, coastal and delta regions of the world. With core activities such as coastal defense, riverbank protection and land reclamation Boskalis is able to provide adaptive and mitigating solutions to combat the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather conditions and rising sea levels, as well as delivering solutions for the increasing need for space in coastal and delta regions across the world. The company facilitates the development of offshore energy infrastructure, including renewable wind energy. Boskalis is furthermore active in the construction and maintenance of ports, waterways, access channels and civil infrastructure, thus helping to facilitate trade flows and regional socio-economic development. In addition, Boskalis is a global marine salvage expert and provides terminal services at various locations worldwide. With a versatile fleet of approximately 500 vessels and floating equipment and over 11,000 employees, Boskalis is creating new horizons around the world. About Allseas Allseas is a family-owned global offshore contractor specializing in pipelay, subsea construction, and ultra-heavy lift. Since 1985, they have led the offshore energy market through bold innovation, consistently pushing technical boundaries to deliver pioneering, responsible solutions that evolve with the changing energy industry. By delivering cutting-edge solutions to the industry's toughest challenges, learning fast and sharing knowledge, Allseas redefines what is possible above and below the water's surface, and seizes market opportunities that drive sustainable growth, leveraging engineering expertise to develop technologies that will play a key role in accelerating the energy transition. This press release can also be found on our website www.boskalis.com. Attachments Latest recognition makes IFS a Gartner Peer Insights Customers' Choice across three categories: Cloud ERP, Enterprise Asset Management, and Field Service Management. LONDON, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- IFS, the leading provider of enterprise cloud and Industrial AI software, has once again been named a Customers' Choice in the 2025 Gartner Peer Insights Voice of the Customer for Cloud ERP for Product-Centric Enterprises report. IFS is the only vendor to receive this distinction in this category, which to us is underlining the high levels of satisfaction and adoption IFS customers continue to experience. The Voice of the Customer report is based on verified reviews submitted to Gartner Peer Insights over the last 18 months, with the Customers' Choice distinction awarded to vendors that meet or exceed the market average across key evaluation metrics. Reviews from IFS Cloud ERP customers include: "IFS is a user-friendly system that competes with other ERP systems that are at a much higher price point. It is easily configurable and is well supported by IFS." Head Business Support - Services "IFS offers a robust and flexible ERP solution with strong capabilities across asset management, manufacturing, and service industries." IT Manager - Manufacturing "It's easy to use and allows configuration to such an extent that we can configure it to support our most value-adding business processes." Global Applications & Process Excellence Manager - Manufacturing "Ease of use, coupled with layers of detail - whereby you can control elements deeper within the product. This has allowed us to install with no modifications." Production Systems Executive - Manufacturing "IFS Cloud is a great ERP system. The user interface is intuitive, modern and works effectively across different devices." Business Analyst - Construction IFS's comprehensive Cloud ERP capabilities are designed to help organizations in asset-intensive industries manage complexity, drive innovation, and deliver Moment of Service to customers. Powered by IFS.ai - embedded Industrial AI - IFS Cloud connects people, processes, and assets across the value chain for faster decision-making and increased productivity. This recognition follows IFS being recognized in the Gartner Market Share: Enterprise Software, Worldwide, 2024 for the fourth consecutive year, which we believe is reinforcing IFS's continued commitment to driving excellence for customers as it leads the Industrial AI revolution. Christian Pederson, Chief Product Officer, at IFS, said: "Being recognized as a Customers' Choice for Cloud ERP is, in our view, a clear reflection of our commitment to putting customers first and pushing the boundaries of what's possible with Industrial AI. We know our customers want solutions that help them adapt, grow and stay competitive in complex industries - and that's exactly what we deliver with IFS Cloud. Our aim is to equip organizations with intelligent, industry-tailored AI capabilities that unlock real value and make them future-ready." Access the full report here: IFS Leads Gartner 2025 ERP Voice of the Customer Report Gartner Voice of the Customer Enterprise Asset Management, Peer Contributors, 15 January, 2025. Gartner, Voice of the Customer for Enterprise Asset Management, Peer Contributors, 24 December 2024. Gartner, Voice of the Customer for Field Service Management, Peer Contributors, July 23, 2024. Gartner Voice of the Customer for Cloud ERP for Product-Centric Enterprises, Peer Contributors, March 22, 2024. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark, and PEER INSIGHTS is a trademark and service mark, of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner Peer Insights content consists of the opinions of individual end users based on their own experiences with the vendors listed on the platform, should not be construed as statements of fact, nor do they represent the views of Gartner or its affiliates. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in this content nor makes any warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this content, about its accuracy or completeness, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. IFS Press Contacts: EUROPE / MEA / APJ: Adam Gillbe IFS, Director of Corporate & Executive Communications Email: adam.gillbe@ifs.com NORTH AMERICA / LATAM: Mairi Morgan IFS, Director of Corporate & Executive Communications Email: mairi.morgan@ifs.com This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ifs-is-the-only-company-named-as-a-customers-choice-in-the-2025-gartner-peer-insights-voice-of-the-customer-for-cloud-erp-for-product-centric-enterprises-302515883.html DEA Counsel's Conduct: Is It Fraud on the Tribunal? DEA attorney Aarathi D. Haig submitted a formal legal response on July 25, 2025 to DEA Administrator Terry Cole, asserting that MMJ BioPharma Cultivation lacked a bona fide supply agreement (BFSA) - the critical requirement for Schedule I bulk manufacturing registration. But this is provably false. That misrepresentation - made knowingly and in writing to the DEA Administrator and under the guise of the law - raises serious civil and criminal red flags. WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / The Drug Enforcement Administration just perjured itself in the matter of MMJ BioPharma Cultivation. In a July 25 filing signed by attorney Aarathi D. Haig, the DEA outrageously claimed that MMJ "had no bona fide supply agreement (BFSA)" with a Schedule I registrant. That statement is not only false; it's demonstrably, documentably false. We have the signed, sealed BFSA between MMJ BioPharma and a DEA-registered Schedule I manufacturer. The agreement meticulously satisfies every clause of DEA's own regulatory requirement under 21 C.F.R. 1318.05(b)(3)(i). This wasn't a technicality. It was a coordinated lie meant to bury seven years of federally compliant work, destroy a Huntington's Disease treatment before it reaches patients, and protect DEA insiders who have weaponized bureaucracy against medical marijuana science. The Receipts DEA Pretends Don't Exist Let's be crystal clear: MMJ's supply agreement with a schedule 1 registrant contains every single requirement DEA demanded in its own rules: Schedule I registrant? Specific strains and cannabis delivery quantities? Detailed in Article I. Harvest notifications, packaging, DEA Form 222, and ownership transfer protocols? Articles II & III. Secure vault storage, anti-diversion controls, payment terms, IRB-reviewed clinical trial data, IND approval from FDA? Yet the DEA continues to write in federal filings, as though we're all too stupid to read the documents, that MMJ "failed" to provide a Bona Fide Supply Agreement. This is not a misunderstanding. This is deception and fraudulent misrepresentation at the highest level. Mulrooney's Kangaroo Court and Aarathi Haig's Legal Fiction Chief Administrative Law Judge John J. Mulrooney II, now conveniently retired, rubber-stamped this lie and refused to even admit the supply agreement into evidence. He helped orchestrate a procedural sham that made it impossible for MMJ to present the truth. And now DEA Counsel Aarathi Haig doubles down with a legal sleight of hand that should be called what it is: fraud on the tribunal. Haig knows that MMJ's agreement complies with DEA's rule: she just chose to ignore it and assert to the Administrator that it never existed. Who Will Hold DEA Accountable? This isn't just about MMJ BioPharma anymore. It's about whether facts still matter in federal law. It's about whether a rogue federal agency can retroactively invent rules, then pretend applicants didn't comply, and get away with it while patients with deadly diseases like Huntington's continue to suffer. This case exposes DEA's Diversion Control Division as a cartel of obstructionists who have abandoned science, betrayed public trust, and refused to follow the law. DEA Terrance Cole's First Test as Administrator New DEA Administrator Terrance Cole inherited a mess. But now he has a chance to do something Mulrooney and Haig never would: Tell the truth. Follow the law. And approve MMJ's long-blocked registration so clinical trials can finally begin. If Cole doesn't act, he won't just be complicit; he'll become the latest face of a federal agency that has turned cannabis research into a rigged game; a game where the rules change, the facts don't matter, and the fix is always in. This Is What Scientific Sabotage Looks Like At stake here is not just one registration; it's the future of FDA compliant, patient focused cannabis research in the United States. MMJ BioPharma Cultivation has done everything by the book. The DEA burned the book-and then accused MMJ of not reading it. MMJ is represented by attorney Megan Sheehan. CONTACT: Madison Hisey MHisey@mmjih.com 203-231-8583 SOURCE: MMJ International Holdings View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/is-dea-marijuana-lies-civil-misconduct-or-criminal-fraud-dea-administ-1054154 The Freepod nasal spray pump, globally used with the Otrivinbrand, is now made from 52% bio-based feedstock Aptar Pharma, a global leader in drug delivery and active material science solutions and services, is proud to announce that its Freepod nasal spray pump one of the delivery systems for Haleon's Otrivin brand is now made with mass balance bio-based resins. This is the first Aptar delivery system using such materials to be commercialized globally. The use of more sustainable renewable plastic resources is a meaningful measure to help reduce the use of fossil-based materials in healthcare primary packaging. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729770203/en/ Aptar Pharma's Freepod nasal spray pump delivers Haleon's Otrivin (Image courtesy of Haleon) Reinforcing circularity in pharmaceutical packaging Aptar Pharma's Freepod spray pump used with Haleon's Otrivin Nasal Spray is made of 52% ISCC Plus certified bio-based feedstock. The bottle is produced using a mass balance approach equivalent to 100% bio-based content. Together, the pump and bottle components result in an overall circular material content of 60% for the full nasal spray device. ISCC PLUS certified manufacturing and supply chain Aptar Pharma is committed to helping its customers meet their sustainability goals, such as reducing the use of fossil-based materials in packaging. The Freepod nasal spray components are made from bio-based resins derived from renewable feedstocks like bio-waste and residual oils, using an ISCC PLUS-certified mass balance approach. The Aptar Pharma manufacturing site in Mezzovico, Switzerland, is ISCC PLUS certified, ensuring full traceability of materials throughout the manufacturing process and supply chain. ISCC Plus certification also covers all external suppliers including injection molding providers, service partners, and warehouses guaranteeing a fully (ISCC) certified supply chain for the Freepod components. Partnership for a more sustainable approach The joint sustainability approach between Haleon (formerly GSK Consumer Healthcare) and Aptar Pharma is built on a long-term partnership spanning over 30 years. This collaboration has led to significant achievements, including the Otrivin Freepod winning the World Packaging Award in 2019 for its innovative and sustainable design. The use of bio-based or renewable feedstocks for the Otrivin products with Freepod technology supports Haleon's goal to reduce virgin petroleum-based plastic use by 10% by 2025** and by a third by 2030, compared to 2022 levels. Aptar Pharma's Freepod for Otrivin, available globally, demonstrates Aptar's commitment to sustainability and innovation. Looking ahead, this collaboration is anticipated to extend to Otrivin Nasal Mist, Haleon's latest microdroplet technology, which is being rolled out globally since 2023. "At Aptar, sustainability is not just a responsibility it's a strategic advantage," commented Gael Touya, President of Aptar Pharma. "The launch of FreepodFuturity reflects our commitment to developing solutions that respond to consumers' increasing demand for more sustainable healthcare delivery technologies. As a trusted partner to Haleon, we are proud to help drive the success of the Otrivin brand while enabling a shift away from fossil-based materials in primary packaging. Supporting our partners in reaching their environmental goals reinforces our vision of supporting the healthcare industry, from Formulation to patient." With a strong commitment to sustainability, Aptar Pharma continuously strives to reduce its environmental impact and support its partners in achieving their sustainability goals. *ISCC Plus certified bio-based feedstock, mass balance approach. **The end point for the goal delivery period is the end of the 2025 calendar year. About Aptar Pharma Aptar Pharma is part of AptarGroup, Inc. (NYSE:ATR), a global leader in the design and manufacturing of a broad range of drug delivery, consumer product dispensing and active material science solutions. Aptar's innovative solutions and services serve a variety of end markets including pharmaceutical, beauty, personal care, home, food and beverage. Using insights, proprietary design, engineering and science to create dispensing, dosing and protective technologies for many of the world's leading brands, Aptar in turn makes a meaningful difference in the lives, looks, health and homes of millions of patients and consumers around the world. Aptar is headquartered in Crystal Lake, Illinois and has over 13,000 dedicated employees in 20 countries. For more information, visit www.aptar.com. About Haleon Haleon (LSE/NYSE: HLN) is a global leader in consumer health, with a purpose to deliver better everyday health with humanity. Haleon's product portfolio spans six major categories Oral Health, Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements (VMS), Pain Relief, Respiratory Health, Digestive Health and Therapeutic Skin Health and Other. Its long-standing brands such as Advil, Centrum, Otrivin, Panadol, parodontax, Polident, Sensodyne, Theraflu and Voltaren are built on trusted science, innovation and deep human understanding. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729770203/en/ Contacts: Media Contact: Ciara Jackson Aptar Pharma +49 151 1951 6502 ciara.jackson@aptar.com SYDNEY, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global broker Axi proudly announces a major milestone in its trader funding program, Axi Select, as it celebrates its 5th $1 million funded trader, and surpasses $5 million in profit payouts year-to-date. The latest trader to reach the $1 million mark is Yoleny G, a trader who identifies as a proud wife and mother of two. Her achievement is particularly significant as she becomes the 5th trader to reach this milestone with Axi. Yoleny's accomplishment is not only a testament of her trading discipline but also marks a personal goal on her path to Axi's elite Pro M stage. "I'm incredibly proud of my achievement. Reaching $1 million funded status has been a personal mission, and this is just the beginning." - Yoleny G. Yoleny joins an elite group of traders who have reached the $1 million funding threshold under the Axi Select program. The first two Pro M traders recently came together for an exclusive visit to Axi's global headquarters in Sydney, where they shared insights, met the Axi team, and celebrated their collective success. The Axi Select community has rapidly grown to over 30,000 members, making it one of the most dynamic traders funded ecosystems globally. Axi's recent collaboration with Bloomberg further reinforces its commitment to providing high-quality resources, transparency, and market insight for retail traders striving to reach the next level of their trading journey. As of July 2025, Axi has paid out over $7.6million to funded traders, with one standout individual earning $108,879.66 in May alone. This milestone reflects Axi's continued focus on empowering skilled traders with real opportunities to grow, backed by capital, education and access to key trading tools. As Axi continues to expand the Axi Select program and its global trading community, milestones like these reinforce the company's commitment to providing serious traders with the tools, capital, and support they need to succeed. With more traders advancing toward higher funding levels and new initiatives on the horizon, Axi remains focused on being a market leader in this space. About Axi Axi is a global online FX and CFD trading company, with thousands of customers in 100+ countries worldwide. Axi offers CFDs for several asset classes including Forex, Shares, Gold, Oil, Coffee, and more. For more information or additional comments from Axi, please contact: mediaenquiries@axi.com The Axi Select program is only available to clients of AxiTrader Limited. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. In our dealings with you, we will act as a principal counterparty to all of your positions. This content may not be available in your region. For more information, refer to our Terms of Service. Standard trading fees and minimum deposit apply. MUMBAI, India, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Datamatics Group hosted its 50-Year Golden Jubilee on July 18, 2025, with the Annual Achievers Awards (AAA) 2025 at the iconic Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. The theme for the event was "Innovative Minds. Global Impact." It was a celebration of five decades of excellence, innovation and impact, commemorating a journey powered by vision, shaped by resilience, and made extraordinary by its people. Jointly hosted and organized by all the three Group Companies, the grand celebration brought together over 2,000 employees, senior leaders, former employees who were integral in laying the foundation of the respective Companies, and global stakeholders from Datamatics Global Services Ltd. (DGSL), Lumina Datamatics Ltd. (LDL), and Datamatics Business Solutions Ltd. (DBSL) for an evening that honored the past and embraced the promise of the future. Dr. Lalit S. Kanodia, Founder and Chairman of the Datamatics Group, inaugurated the event, reflecting on the Group's legacy, pioneering milestones, and unwavering commitment to technology-led transformation. An AI-generated video film was specially curated to illustrate the 50-year journey of the Datamatics Group from its inception covering key milestones of what we had achieved along the way. The golden jubilee presented the perfect occasion to relive the Datamatics Group's journey from pioneering offshore IT services in 1975 to becoming a global leader in digital operations, content, and AI-driven solutions. As an integral part of this legacy, Lumina Datamatics continues to play a critical role in redefining publishing, eCommerce, and digital learning ecosystems for leading global clients. The highlight of the evening featured the Annual Achievers Awards 2025, recognizing exceptional talent across the Datamatics Group. Award categories included Innovation, Customer Success, Leadership, and Collaboration, highlighting individuals and teams who embodied the Group's core values of merit, ownership, and excellence. They also recognized employees that have served the Datamatics Group for 15 years, 20 years, 25 years, and 30 years. Mr. Sameer Kanodia, Managing Director and CEO, Lumina Datamatics and Vice Chairman and CEO, TNQTech stated, "Reaching 50 years is a moment of pride and a promise for the future. This evening is about celebrating every contributor to our journey and reaffirming our focus on creating intelligent, technology-driven solutions for the evolving digital world." The evening glittered with multiple dance acts and cultural performances, team and individual felicitations, and a gala dinner marking not just an ending, but the beginning of an even more transformative future. It was a night that honored the past and embraced the promise of tomorrow. This will be followed by similar celebrations in the various locations where the organization has a presence. About Lumina Datamatics: Lumina Datamatics is a trusted partner in providing digital Content Services, Retail Support Services, and Technology Solutions to companies in the Publishing and Retail Industries worldwide. We are among the largest service providers in the Content space and our customers include nine of the ten largest Publishers and three of the five largest Retailers and Marketplaces. Lumina Datamatics' expert solutions combine its various in-house and client-facing platforms, partnerships with global technology leaders, and more than 7000 professionals across the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Philippines, and India. For Media Queries: pr@luminad.com The smart sensor market is anticipated to expand at a rapid pace owing to surging adoption of automation and extensive use of IoT devices in industry verticals such as manufacturing, automotive, and healthcare over the coming years. WESTFORD, Mass., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SkyQuest Technology Consulting published a report, titled, Smart Sensor Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2025-2032", valued at USD 78.34 billion in 2024. With a projected CAGR of 18% from 2025 to 2032, the market is expected to reach USD 294.47 billion by the end of 2032. Growing miniaturization of sensors and improvement in their wireless communication abilities are also expected to bolster the demand for smart sensors in the future. Download Sample Pages of Report: https://www.skyquestt.com/sample-request/smart-sensor-market Smart Sensor Market Dynamics: Rapid increase in proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in multiple industry verticals is helping create new opportunities for smart sensor providers. Smart sensors play a vital role in enabling real-time communication and data collection to help productivity and operations in multiple settings. Surge in adoption of predictive maintenance is also expected to help bolster the adoption of IoT devices, which further boosts sales of smart sensors. Another key factor driving the demand for smart sensors is smart city initiatives. Advancements in smart technologies and emphasis on improving urban infrastructure has led to launch of multiple smart city initiatives around the world. Smart sensors play a crucial role in helping transform normal cities into smart ones with their unique functionalities. Launch of new smart city initiatives by government are further boosting the demand for smart sensors. Recent Developments in Smart Sensor Market In April 2025, Distech Controls, a leading provider of intelligent building solutions announced the launch of Resense Move sensing environment. The new solution is equipped with Insight SIP 1907-HT module and is capable of people counting, presence detection, light intensity, VOC, and noise level, among other features. In February 2025, Xiaomi, a leading consumer electronics company from China revealed its plans to launch of a new affordable smart sensor for indoor climate applications. The company was preparing for a crowdfunding campaign for Temperature and Humidity Sensor 3 Mini, which was expected to be only available in China at the time. In December 2024, Butlr, a renowned name in the physical AI (PAI) technology businesse announced the launch of a new smart sensor powered by AI. The Heatic 2+ offers multi-year battery life, scalability, and real-time ultra precise insights. Speak to our Analyst: https://www.skyquestt.com/speak-with-analyst/smart-sensor-market Major Challenges in Smart Sensor Industry High upfront costs required to develop and deploy smart sensors emerges as a key challenge for market players. Use of sophisticated equipment, need for skilled labor, and high costs of R&D are all contributing to the high upfront investments resulting in an expensive end product. These high costs deter smart sensor adoption in price-sensitive markets and small and medium enterprises with limited spending potential. Supply chain disruptions are also expected to have a negative impact on sales of smart sensors on a global level. Rising geopolitical tensions, trade wars, and increased tariffs are all expected to hurt the demand for smart sensors in the long run. Semiconductor shortages and lack of skilled workforce can further reduce the adoption of smart sensors through 2032 and beyond. View Full Report: https://www.skyquestt.com/report/smart-sensor-market Competitive Landscape: Top smart sensor manufacturers are focusing on integration of artificial intelligence in their offers to stand out from the competition. Collaborating with tech giants and automation providers is also emerging as a key strategy for smart sensor suppliers looking to boost their business scope. Miniaturization of sensors and use of advanced silicon technologies can also create new opportunities for market players going forward. The major players in the smart sensor industry include, Honeywell International Inc. Siemens AG Analog Devices Inc. Infineon Technologies AG STMicroelectronics N.V. TE Connectivity Ltd. Texas Instruments Inc. NXP Semiconductors N.V. Microchip Technology Inc. ABB Ltd. Smart Sensor Market Segmentation: Global Smart Sensor market is segmented by type, technology, component, end user, and geography. The market is categorized by type on the basis of temperature & humidity sensors, pressure sensors, flow sensors, touch sensors, image sensors, motion & occupancy sensors, position sensors, light sensors, and others. On the basis of technology, the market is categorized by MEMS-based Sensor, CMOS-based Sensor, optical sensors, and others. Based on component, the market is categorized by analog to digital converters, digital to analog converters, transceivers, amplifiers, microcontrollers, and others. By end user, the market is segmented into industrial (aerospace & defense, consumer electronics, healthcare, transportation & logistics, automotive, energy & utilities, renewables, manufacturing, others), commercial (retail, hospitality, others), and residential. By type, the image sensor segment dominated the global smart sensor market in 2024 as the demand for high-resolution imaging rises from multiple industry verticals. By technology, the MEMS-based sensor segment dominated the global smart sensor market in 2024 owing to its high accuracy and miniaturization potential. By component, microcontrollers segment dominated the global smart sensor market in 2024, which can be linked to high emphasis on making sensors more compact and functional. By end user, the industrial segment dominated the global smart sensor market in 2024 owing to high demand for automation and emphasis on Industry 4.0 initiatives. Buy this Research Report (250+ Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures): https://www.skyquestt.com/buy-now/smart-sensor-market Regional Insights Growing investments in automation and adoption of IoT devices are helping North America lead the global demand for smart sensors. Launch of new smart city initiatives and early technology adoption are also cementing its dominance. The United States and Canada are predicted to be the top countries in the region. Europe smart sensor market is driven by high investments in Industry 4.0 and smart infrastructure development. Strong regulatory landscape of the region is also estimated to help bolster the sales of smart sensors going forward. Launch of new smart city initiatives in Germany and the United Kingdom also create new opportunities. In the Asia-Pacific region, launch of new digital transformation initiatives backed by government and rising adoption of smart manufacturing make this region the fastest-growing one for smart sensor companies. Presence of robust semiconductor manufacturing in countries such as Japan, Taiwan, China, and South Korea is also promoting smart sensor demand. In the LAMEA region, the smart sensor market is driven by growing adoption of IoT devices and expansion of automotive manufacturing. Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates are expected to be the most opportune countries in this region. Explore Extensive ongoing Coverage on Related Topics: Sensor Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast - 2032 https://www.skyquestt.com/report/sensor-market IoT in Retail Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast - 2032 https://www.skyquestt.com/report/internet-of-things-iot-in-retail-market Machine Vision Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast - 2032 https://www.skyquestt.com/report/machine-vision-market Telecommunication Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast - 2032 https://www.skyquestt.com/report/telecommunication-market Field Service Management Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast - 2032 https://www.skyquestt.com/report/field-service-management-market About SkyQuest Technology Consulting SkyQuest Technology Consulting is a leading Strategy Consulting and Market Research firm, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and growth consulting services, trusted by CXOs from Fortune 500 Companies, Start-ups, and MSMEs. The company comprises a team of expert research analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports in our database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 40+ industries & sub industries across 25 major countries worldwide, serving global clients across diverse industries. The company specializes in delivering customized intelligence, data-driven insights, and strategic advisory services that enable businesses to stay competitive and make informed decisions in rapidly evolving industries. Contact Us: SkyQuest Technology Consulting 1 Apache Way, Westford, Massachusetts 01886 USA (+1) 351-333-4748 Email: sales@skyquestt.com Visit Our Website: https://www.skyquestt.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2446095/SkyQuest_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/smart-sensor-market-to-grow-at-a-cagr-of-18-from-2025-to-2032--skyquest-technology-consulting-302515920.html Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Hannan Metals Limited's (TSXV: HAN) (OTC Pink: HANNF) ("Hannan" or the "Company") is pleased to report new high-grade gold assay results from its 100% owned alkalic epithermal gold target at the Previsto project in Peru. Key Points: Systematic Footprint Expansion Across Multiple Directions The new channel results demonstrate mineralization extending 30 m eastward (CH16811), 400 m south (CH16827), and 230 m southeast (CH16836) from the previously announced central high-grade zone (69.1 m @ 2.4 g/t Au), systematically expanding the known mineralized footprint and proving the extensive lateral continuity of the alkaline epithermal system. Extensive Mineralized Footprint Identified Across Large-Scale System These results validate the presence of a broad, low to moderate-grade alkaline epithermal system with excellent structural continuity across a very large 3 km x 3 km footprint, reinforcing the large areas of low grade with smaller pockets of high grades, typical of major alkaline gold systems and moving beyond localized high-grade targeting. Consistent Alkaline System Signature Over Extended Area All areas display consistent alkaline gold system characteristics including K-feldspar porphyry host rocks, roscoelite phyllic alteration, and elevated vanadium signatures (0.2% to 0.4% by pXRF), confirming the systematic nature of mineralization across the expanded 3 km x 3 km area. The results demonstrate excellent lateral continuity with intersections from random outcrops defined below thick vegetation ranging from 11.5 m to 27 m wide, enabling a strategic shift from grade-based targeting to understanding the fundamental structural architecture controlling this extensive alkaline gold system, indicating potential for systematic exploration across the large footprint. Belen Drilling Update: Hannan has completed three Vista Alegre drill holes (184.6 m, 256.8 m and 347.6 m deep) testing a 2.4 km geophysical anomaly, with final assays pending. Drilling commenced at Ricardo Herrera targeting a 1,000 m x 250 m chargeability anomaly with outcropping porphyry copper-gold mineralization and strong phyllic alteration. Michael Hudson, CEO, states: "These latest results confirm we've systematically outlined a 3 km x 3 km alkaline epithermal gold system with exceptional lateral continuity - the hallmark of a district-scale find. The consistent gold-silver-tellurium mineralization, roscoelite alteration, elevated vanadium signatures, and K-feldspar porphyry host rocks across this expanded footprint demonstrate we're dealing with a coherent hydrothermal system, not isolated occurrences. This structural architecture and geochemical fingerprint mirrors what we see at world-class alkaline systems like Cripple Creek, with similar high-grade pockets within a 'sea of gold'. With environmental baseline work completed for Previsto drill permitting and our inaugural drilling program at Belen delivering three completed holes awaiting assays, we're systematically advancing multiple high-grade targets across this emerging 150 km mineral belt." Technical Discussion Previsto Central Gold Mineralization As for global alkaline gold analogues like the Cripple Creek gold system in Colorado, Previsto demonstrates remarkable parallels, particularly in grade distribution characteristics. At Cripple Creek, historic high-grade telluride veins produced bonanza ores grading several hundred troy ounces per ton, with Bob Womack's initial discovery yielding 10 to 12 troy ounces per ton and the famous "Cresson Vug" containing massive concentrations of calaverite and sylvanite tellurides. While modern heap leach operations at Cripple Creek now process low-grade material averaging 0.50 g/t Au, the Previsto system exhibits encouraging similarities to Cripple Creek's original high-grade discovery phase. Recent channel results at Previsto Central, including 69.1 m @ 2.4 g/t Au, 13 g/t Ag and 11 g/t Te (uncut), with higher-grade intervals of 3.0 m @ 12.7 g/t Au, 49 g/t Ag, 43 g/t Te, 3.0 m @ 11.2 g/t Au, 53 g/t Ag, 36 g/t Te and 0.7 m @ 16.1 g/t Au, 60 g/t Ag, 48 g/t Te, suggest Previsto may represent an alkaline gold system in its early stages of exploration. Like Cripple Creek's historic high-grade zones that were structurally controlled and persisted to depths exceeding 900 m, Previsto's roscoelite-altered zones with gold-silver-tellurium mineralization and similar alkaline igneous host rocks indicate the potential for both high-grade structural zones and extensive lower-grade disseminated mineralization that could support future exploration and development scenarios. Latest Results The latest channel sampling results from Previsto Central (Figures 3 and 4), collected from newly discovered outcrops in heavily vegetated steep terrain, continue to demonstrate the extensive nature of the alkaline epithermal gold system beyond previously defined high-grade zones. While this month's fieldwork returned modest grades, the results significantly expand the mineralized footprint and reinforce the "sea of gold" characteristics typical of large alkaline gold systems. Channel CH16811 extends the known mineralization 30 m eastward beyond the currently defined gold zone, intersecting 18 m @ 0.13 g/t Au and 2 g/t Ag, including a higher-grade interval of 3 m @ 0.59 g/t Au and 2 g/t Ag. The channel is hosted within K-feldspar porphyry (KFP) and breccia units, displaying low-intensity roscoelite phyllic alteration with goethite-ilmenite assemblages. Portable XRF analysis reveals elevated titanium (3.6%), lead (0.4%), and vanadium (0.2%) concentrations, consistent with the alkaline system signature. Channel CH16827 represents the highest-grade intersection in this press release, returning 11.5 m @ 0.67 g/t Au and 6 g/t Ag, including 1.2 m @ 2.4 g/t Au and 6 g/t Ag. Located 400 m south of the central high-grade zone but within the existing mineralized footprint, this channel intersected fluorite-adularia-pyritechalcopyrite veinlets and stockwork zones within KFP host rock displaying moderate phyllic alteration. The elevated vanadium signature (0.4% by pXRF) further supports the alkaline gold system model. Channel CH16836 demonstrates excellent lateral continuity, intersecting 27 m @ 0.36 g/t Au and 4 g/t Ag, including two distinct higher-grade intervals of 6 m @ 0.67 g/t Au and 6 g/t Ag and 3 m @ 0.54 g/t Au and 3 g/t Ag. Positioned 230 m southeast of the high-grade zone, this intersection occurs within KFP and hornfels units exhibiting phyllic alteration and quartz-adularia-goethite vein stockworks. These results continue to validate the presence of a broad, low to moderate-grade alkaline epithermal system with excellent structural continuity across a very large footprint (3 km x 3 km). K-feldspar porphyry remains the dominant host lithology, with variable contributions from breccia and hornfels units. Ongoing field work focuses on defining the primary structural controls governing mineralization distribution, moving beyond grade-based targeting to understand the fundamental architecture of this extensive alkaline gold system. System Characteristics and Mineralization Style Gold mineralization at Previsto Central displays the characteristic features of alkalic-type epithermal systems, hosted within brecciated, calcareous K-feldspar porphyry of syenitic protolith. The mineralization exhibits several key characteristics: High-grade gold zones are associated with pervasive fine roscoelite (vanadium-rich potassic mica) and fine grey quartz veining with pyrite, occurring as both veinlets and stockwork textures. Alteration assemblages include manganese oxides replacing vein and breccia fill, suggesting that unweathered mineralization contained rhodochrosite, a manganese carbonate mineral typically found in low-sulfidation epithermal systems. Primary mineralization consists of 1% disseminated pyrite with trace chalcopyrite, pyrite veinlets, roscoelite veinlets, and fine jarosite veinlets (likely after pyrite). Structural controls suggest gold deposition was focused along late strike-slip faults where horizontal movement created extensional structures within a compressional regime. Drilling Program at Belen Belen is located 23 km SW of Previsto Central. The initial phase of drilling at Belen zone consists of up to 5,000 m across 18 diamond drill holes designed to test the three primary target areas at Belen: Vista Alegre : The three drill holes will test distinct sections of the 2.4 km long geophysical anomaly targeting two zones. HDDVA001 was completed at 184.6 m, HDDVA002 has been completed at 256.8 m and third hole HDDVA003 has been completed at 347.6 m. Final assays are awaited. Ricardo Herrera : The drill rig has now moved to target the core of the substantial chargeability anomaly that extends over 1,000 m by 250 m with outcropping porphyry-style copper-gold mineralization showing moderate to strong phyllic alteration, with drill pads positioned strategically to test the lateral extent of the mineralized system. HDDRH001 has commenced drilling on a combined geological, geochemical and IP chargeability anomaly with a planned depth of 500 m. Sortilegio: The final phase drilling will investigate the 1.2 km long chargeability anomaly within the alkalic porphyry system. Drillholes will target the source of extensive surface soil copper anomalies coinciding with hydrothermal gold anomalous quartz-gossan boulders with elevated Au-Mo-Te. The chargeability response consists of three alkalic Cu-Au targets identified within the 1.2 km long trend. The drilling program is expected to take approximately 6 months to complete, with first assay results anticipated in the first part of August 2025. Hannan Metals is committed to legal compliance, community respect, and environmental stewardship, emphasizing that all operations only proceed with proper authorization from local populations and with required environmental and archaeological certifications. Drill Permitting in Previsto A ten-person environmental team including professional environmental archaeological investigations, community workshops and liaison activities has now completed collecting appropriate information necessary to make the submittal for approval to the DGAAM - General Directorate of Mining Environmental Affairs - of the Ministry of Energy and Mines, Peru. The work program includes: Environmental baseline monitoring for the project, conducted by third party experts (now complete); Submission to the Peruvian Ministry of Culture the CIRA (Certificate of non-existence of archaeological remains) which declares that the project does not impact archaeological sites; Public participation meetings outlining Hannan's exploration plans will be held in the hamlets of Nueva Palestina, Inca Garcilazo, Chancadora and Previsto, where the communities are on record as approving the company's proposed drill program; The DIA is the primary environmental certification required to allow low impact mineral exploration programs, that includes drilling programs, to proceed in Peru. Final DIA and other approvals are anticipated during Q3 2026. About the Valiente Project The 100% owned Valiente project is in central eastern Peru, east of the city of Tingo Maria (Figures 1 and 2). The area is characterized by steep topography on the eastern flank of the Central Cordillera with elevations between 800 m and 2,000 m above sea level (a.s.l.). The project was found in 2021 during an extensive greenfields prospecting program initiated by Hannan for back-arc porphyry copper-gold systems. The Company has been actively prospecting on the project since 2021 and has successfully gained social permits progressively in all areas of interest. During 2021 Hannan staked and still holds 1,002 km2 of 100% owned mining concessions at Valiente covering unexplored terrain for potential mineralized porphyry targets in central eastern Peru. The Valiente Project has rapidly evolved from a greenfields prospect to a multi-prospect opportunity. Early surface prospecting identified two outcropping copper-gold porphyry targets and one epithermal target at Belen (see Press Release Feb 16, 2023). Porphyry areas quickly followed at Serrano Norte, Serrano and Pucacunga. The focus more recently has been on Previsto. At Previsto and Belen, a district-scale porphyry cluster within an area of 25 km by 10 km, with eight porphyry and/or epithermal targets now identified in more detail with up to 10 earlier stage targets awaiting further work. The company is executing a multi-year strategy to systematically explore and drill test its extensive land package in this emerging Miocene-aged, linked porphyry-epithermal mineral belt. Technical Background All samples were collected by Hannan geologists. Samples were transported to ALS in Lima via third party services using trackable parcels and by company staff. At the laboratory, rock samples were prepared and analyzed by standard methods. The sample preparation involved crushing 70% to less than 2 mm, riffle split off 250 g, pulverize split to better than 85% passing 75 microns. Samples were analyzed by method ME-MS61, a four-acid digest performed on 0.25 g of the sample to quantitatively dissolve most geological materials. Analysis is via ICP-MS. Gold was analyzed in rock and soils by ALS in Lima using a standard sample preparation and 30 g fire assay sample charge. Soil samples were analyzed by a portable XRF (VANTA-VMR) using an in-house protocol which includes routine use of CRM and field duplicates as well as 10% check samples analyzed by ALS Lima. Channel samples are considered representative of the in-situ mineralization samples. At this stage true widths of mineralization are not known. Grab or panel samples are selective by nature and are unlikely to represent average grades on the property. About Hannan Metals Limited (TSXV: HAN) (OTC Pink: HANNF) Hannan Metals Limited is an exploration company focused on the discovery of large gold and copper mineralizing systems in new frontiers in Peru. Over the last decade, the team behind Hannan has forged a long and successful record of discovering, financing, and advancing mineral projects in Australia, Europe and South America. Mr. Michael Hudson FAusIMM, Hannan's Chairman and CEO, a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, has prepared, reviewed, verified and approved the technical contents of this news release. Forward-Looking Statements. Certain disclosure contained in this news release may constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. These statements may relate to this news release and other matters identified in the Company's public filings. In making the forward-looking statements the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: the political environment in which the Company operates continuing to support the development and operation of mining projects; the threat associated with outbreaks of viruses and infectious diseases; risks related to negative publicity with respect to the Company or the mining industry in general; planned work programs; permitting; and community relations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news. Figure 1: Overview of the 1,002 km2 Valiente project area in Peru. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5402/260472_a1055d8ca4311a97_004full.jpg Figure 2: Map showing the vast 4x4 km gold anomaly at Previsto and the location of the expanding gold find. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5402/260472_a1055d8ca4311a97_005full.jpg Figure 3: Overview of the gold discovery at Previsto Central. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5402/260472_a1055d8ca4311a97_006full.jpg Figure 4: The Previsto Project, analogous to the giant Cripple Creek gold district. Widespread gold in soil and rock chips extend this known mineralization into a vast 3km x 3km area, indicating significant potential to expand the mineralized footprint. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5402/260472_a1055d8ca4311a97_007full.jpg To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260472 SOURCE: Hannan Metals Ltd. JACKSONVILLE, FL / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / In early 2025, a leading pediatric health system in Virginia took a bold step toward modernizing patient access - one that's already reshaping their operations and improving satisfaction across the board. Hampton Roads Pediatrics, part of the Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD) Medical Group, had been struggling with call volume and staffing limitations. Within weeks of implementing TriageLogic's MedMessage Automate , over 60% of patient messages were being submitted through self-service - dramatically reducing the burden on their front desk team. Those submissions not only included accurate and relevant information, but were also automatically routed to the appropriate staff members, ensuring faster response times and better patient outcomes. CHKD Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters. The Challenge: Manual Intake Meets Modern Demands CHKD had relied heavily on a phone-based intake system, where parents were required to wait on hold to submit their children's medical requests. Staff members then manually transcribed and routed those requests to the appropriate clinical teams. This traditional approach placed a growing burden on nonclinical operators at their front desk, particularly during periods of high call volume. It led to long wait times, delays in handling urgent messages, and increased administrative pressures. On top of these concerns, CHKD was also facing a simultaneous rise in operational costs and shortage of available personnel, making it even more difficult to train and maintain a responsive intake team. The Solution: Self-Service Intake To meet these demands, Hampton Roads Pediatrics partnered with TriageLogic to implement a platform called MedMessage Automate that patients could use to submit their symptom data directly to the nursing team. Here's what that process looks like. When a parent contacts the office, they receive a secure text link from MedMessage Automate that prompts them to complete a short medical intake form. Using a proprietary algorithm, this smart form adapts to the patient's request or response. For example, if a child has a reported fever, the system asks follow-up questions about the severity and duration of that fever in order to collect clinically relevant details. This data is then automatically routed to the appropriate triage nurse queue, eliminating the need for staff to manually collect, transcribe, or enter intake information into their system. Because this platform was designed to integrate seamlessly with existing triage workflows like this hospital's, the transition required minimal training and caused no disruption to daily operations. Initial Results Between March 18 and May 6, Hampton Roads Pediatrics was able to divert 60% of its patient call requests to this automated service. Not only did this lead to a notable increase in intake accuracy, but it also saved the hospital 3-7 minutes of human capital per interaction. Click here for additional results and to see how patients felt about using this platform. Why It Matters CHKD's experience demonstrates how augmented intelligence like MedMessage Automate can reduce administrative overhead, support clinical teams, and deliver better health outcomes. Healthcare organizations that are interested in seeing similar results are encouraged to contact TriageLogic. SOURCE: TriageLogic View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/chkd-reduces-medical-message-intake-burden-by-60-with-triagelogic-1035163 CAMBRIDGE, England, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Myrtle.ai, a recognized leader in accelerating machine learning inference, today released support for its VOLLO inference accelerator on the AMD Alveo V80 compute accelerator card. VOLLO achieves industry-leading ML inference compute latencies, which can be less than one microsecond, while delivering excellent throughput, power, and rack space efficiencies. This new release enables ML developers with larger models to benefit from running them on a single FPGA for the lowest latency. For example, a 22 million parameter, 3-layer LSTM model can be run with a p99 latency of under 10 microseconds. Even larger models may be sharded and run across multiple FPGAs, still achieving lower latencies than competing solutions. VOLLO has been in demand across a wide range of applications, including financial trading, wireless telecommunications, cybersecurity, network management, and others, where running ML inference at the lowest possible latency confers advantages in security, safety, profit, efficiency, and cost. "Demand for VOLLO has come from both sides," remarked Peter Baldwin, CEO of Myrtle.ai. "We have customers who have a fixed latency window, and they're delighted to be able to run larger models at the same latencies that they could only achieve with smaller models before. We also have customers who want the very lowest latency they can achieve for their specific model. Increasing the size of models that can be run on a single FPGA has really helped both." "We're delighted that VOLLO is now supported on the production-ready AMD Alveo V80 compute accelerator for memory-intensive workloads," said Girish Malipeddi, director for Data Center FPGA business, AMD. "AMD customers can now run ML inference at very low latency using VOLLO, while those wishing to purchase a compute accelerator to run VOLLO have the option to choose the Alveo V80, with the highest model capacity of any single FPGA yet supported by VOLLO." The Alveo V80 card is based on the AMD Versal Adaptive SoC with 2.6M LUT logic density, 32GB of HBM, and an additional 32GB of DDR4 and 800G network interface. It features FPGA fabric to adapt the hardware to the application, coupled with HBM2e for large data sets and memory-intensive compute. Interested parties may now download the ML-oriented VOLLO compiler from vollo.myrtle.ai today and discover what latencies can be achieved with their models on the AMD Alveo V80 compute accelerator card. About Myrtle.ai Myrtle.ai is an AI/ML software company that delivers world class inference accelerators on FPGA-based platforms from all the leading FPGA suppliers. With neural network expertise across the complete spectrum of ML networks, Myrtle has delivered accelerators for FinTech, Speech Processing, and Recommendation. AMD, the AMD logo, Alveo, Versal, and combinations thereof are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2739187/Myrtle_ai.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2739186/Myrtle_ai_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/myrtleai-enables-microsecond-ml-inference-latencies-for-larger-models-on-amd-alveo-v80-compute-accelerator-card-302515025.html HONG KONG, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CIMC Enric Holdings Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively, "CIMC Enric" or the "Company") (Stock code: 3899.HK) are pleased to announce that Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering Co., Ltd. ("CIMC SOE"), a subsidiary of CIMC Enric, has signed a shipbuilding contract with the Norwegian company Amon Gas for the construction of 2+2 51,000 m ammonia dual-fuel medium-sized LPG/liquid ammonia carriers (MGCs, Medium - sized Gas Carrier). This landmark cooperation marks a significant step forward for both parties in promoting green shipping and clean energy applications. Signing Order for World's Largest Ammonia-Fueled MGCs Amon Gas, a joint venture between Navigator Holdings Ltd. and Amon Maritime, specializes in building and operating ammonia-fueled gas carriers and is committed to significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping industry through innovative solutions. Its ammonia-fueled MGC project, launched in 2019, has received support from ENOVA, Norway's national agency for the development of sustainable energy technologies. The 51,000 m vessel type signed with CIMC SOE represents the further advancement and concrete implementation of this project. The new vessels are scheduled for delivery in 2028. This vessel type is currently the world's largest medium gas carrier and the first MGC exceeding 51,000 m to adopt ammonia-fueled power, embodying a key development direction for future green shipping. The design of the two newly signed 51,000 m ammonia dual-fuel medium-sized LPG/liquid ammonia carriers fully aligns with future green energy trends, particularly in reducing the carbon footprint of the global shipping industry. By utilizing green ammonia as fuel, these vessels will contribute to achieving the emission reduction targets set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Additionally, the vessels will be equipped with shaft generators and ammonia-fueled generator sets to optimize operational costs, enhance maintenance efficiency, and significantly reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions during operations, reflecting CIMC SOE's firm commitment to sustainable development. Unlike existing MGC designs in the market that only feature ammonia-fueled main engines but lacking ammonia-fueled generator sets, the newly signed ammonia-fueled MGCs are the first in their class to integrate both ammonia-fueled main engines and on-board generator sets, setting a new benchmark for ammonia-fueled MGCs. Through the technical application and project execution of the ammonia-fueled main engines and generator sets, the Company will fully master system matching, safety control, gas supply design, and commissioning processes for ammonia fuel power systems on vessels. This capability will lay a solid foundation for subsequent R&D and market promotion of ammonia-fueled bunkering vessels, large ammonia-powered gas carriers, and related supporting equipment, further consolidating the Company's technological leadership in green shipping. Annual new order intake for offshore clean energy business of the Company is expected to reach approximately RMB 8 billion (~USD 1.1 billion) According to the Ammonia Energy Association (AEA), as of March this year, a total of 130 ammonia-fueled vessels have been ordered or announced globally, alongside an additional 225 ammonia-ready vessels in the pipeline. This demonstrates that ammonia fuel is moving towards larger-scale applications in shipping decarbonization. Mr. Gao Wenbao, Vice President of CIMC Enric and General Manager of CIMC SOE, stated: "Despite facing numerous external challenges, CIMC SOE has maintained its leading position in the industry by leveraging its globally advanced technology and manufacturing strengths in liquefied gas carriers. The total value of this order exceeds USD 160 million. From the beginning of this year to the present, 12 vessels have been delivered, and the acquisition of new orders has accelerated significantly since May. It is estimated that new orders for related offshore clean energy businesses will reach approximately RMB 8 billion in 2025." Mr. Yang Xiaohu, Executive Director and President of CIMC Enric, stated: "Securing this industry-leading order demonstrates that CIMC Enric's capabilities in clean energy shipbuilding have been highly recognized by international shipowners." He added: "The offshore clean energy business has become one of the important cornerstones of the Company's strategy to deploy international shipping clean energy solutions and comprehensive services. Building on its business capabilities and customer base, the Company has also established core competencies such as production capacity for biomass-based green methanol and core process solutions for green hydrogen/ammonia/methanol projects, including port bunkering. Assisting traditional industries in their green transformation through clean energy is a key vision and mission of the Company. We will forge ahead to create sustainable value for society." Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2739945/The_picture_is_from_the_official_website_of_Amon_Gas.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/cimc-enric-signed-contract-with-norwegian-shipowner-amon-gas-for-22-worlds-largest-ammonia-fueled-mgcs-setting-a-new-industry-benchmark-302515851.html NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Fractal (www.fractal.ai), a global provider of artificial intelligence solutions to Fortune 500 enterprises, today announced the launch of Cogentiq, an innovative agentic AI platform designed to translate AI excitement into measurable enterprise performance. Cogentiq accelerates product development and enhances operational agility through pre-built agents, intuitive tools, seamless connectors, and robust governance - all integrated within a powerful low-code framework. Despite enthusiasm around AI, enterprises often struggle to translate potential into tangible results. Traditional analytics and automation tools remain constrained by data silos, rigid workflows, and dependence on technical expertise - limiting the speed and effectiveness of decision-making. Cogentiq bridges this gap, going beyond passive analytics to enable decision-making. Its intelligent agents integrate data across systems, analyze information contextually, and autonomously initiate actions, transforming how enterprises engage with customers, manage operations, and drive growth. Early deployments of Cogentiq have already delivered results across sectors like healthcare, insurance, and consumer packaged goods ("CPG"). For example, a major healthcare provider used Cogentiq to fully automate contact center auditing, reducing call duration and enhancing member experiences - achieving operational efficiency and high ROI. "The excitement around AI is undeniable, yet most enterprises struggle to convert this enthusiasm into sustained performance," saidSrikanth Velamakanni, Co-founder, Group Chief Executive, and Vice-Chairman of Fractal. "Cogentiq represents the future of AI - where intelligent agents actively think, plan, and act within real-world business scenarios. It moves beyond traditional dashboards to embed intelligence directly into daily workflows, accelerating decisions. This means enterprises can now move from actionable intelligence to intelligent actions." Key features of the Cogentiq platform include: SME-Friendly Agent Builder: Empowers subject matter experts ("SME") with a low-code/no-code environment to create and deploy tailored AI agents - democratizing AI across the enterprise. Unified Data Integration: Comprehensive connectors for structured and unstructured data eliminate silos, enabling holistic and real-time insights. Pre-Built Domain Intelligence: Specialized agents tailored for key business functions, including finance, HR and supply chain, accelerating deployment and accuracy. Flexible, Future-Proof Architecture: Cloud-agnostic and compatible with diverse large language models ("LLM"), ensuring enterprises benefit from advancements without vendor lock-in. Enterprise-Grade Security and Compliance: Robust governance framework, secure authentication, and role-based access controls ensures safe, ethical, and compliant AI operations. "Enterprises today are navigating a world rich with data, but what sets us apart is the ability to not just derive insight but act on it, instantly and logically. Cogentiq enables business users to move past static dashboards, to understand the 'why' behind the 'what', and trigger autonomous actions in real-time. With no code and no dependencies from customer support to field sales, businesses can build logical workflows, accelerate decisions and unlocking measurable impact," said Pranay Agrawal, Co-founder and CEO of Fractal US. About Fractal Fractal is a globally recognized Enterprise AI company with a vision to power every human decision in the enterprise. Fractal's suite of businesses includes Asper.ai (enabling interconnected decisions for revenue growth) and Analytics Vidhya (one of the world's largest data science communities). Fractal incubated Qure.ai, a global healthcare AI leader enhancing the rapid identification and management of tuberculosis, lung cancer, and stroke. Fractal's dedicated AI research team is focused on foundational AI advancements, including knowledge-based foundational models, reasoning-based systems, and agentic systems. The team has launched successful products such as MarshallGoldsmith.ai, Vaidya.ai, Kalaido.ai, and the open-source reasoning model Fathom-R1-14B. Fractal employs over 5,000 professionals across 18 global locations, including the United States, Canada, UK, Netherlands, Ukraine, India, Singapore, South Africa, UAE, and Australia. It has consistently earned recognition as one of India's Best Companies to Work For (Top 100, 2025), a 'Great Workplace' for eight consecutive years, and among 'India's Best Workplaces for Women' for five years running by the Great Place to Work Institute. Fractal was also named a Leader in the 2025 Forrester Wave for Customer Analytics Service Providers and earned leadership positions in the Everest Group Peak Matrix Assessment 2025 for AI and Analytics Services, and Information Services Group's 2024 assessments for Data Engineering and Data Science Services. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/fractal-launches-cogentiq-an-agentic-ai-platform-to-drive-enterprise-performance-302515984.html Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Omai Gold Mines Corp. (TSXV: OMG) (OTCQB: OMGGF) ("Omai Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce additional results from its ongoing 2025 drill program, focused on expanding the large Wenot deposit at the Company's 100%-owned Omai Gold Project in Guyana, South America. Assays are reported for 6 holes totaling 3,760 m drilled (Table 1). A total of 37 holes have been drilled to date this year, totalling 20,500m, having surpassed the original planned 15,000m program. Drilling continues to extend the known limits of gold mineralization at Wenot (Figure 1). Results are pending for an additional 8 holes. The long hole 25ODD-122, drilling across the Gilt Creek deposit, continues and is expected to test approximately 600m below the adjacent Wenot deposit. Highlights include: Hole 25ODD-119 (Figure 2) 31.70 g/t Au over 7.5m (17.36 g/t Au over 7.5m capped at 70 g/t Au) including 141.74 g/t Au over 1.5m 1.61 g/t Au over 36.4m including 3.26 g/t Au over 3.8m 3.89 g/t Au over 13.2m including 6.02 g/t Au over 2.5m (Figure 2) Hole 25ODD-124 (Figure 3) 1.76 g/t Au over 20.5m including 5.46 g/t Au over 3.5m 5.67 g/t Au over 4.5m (Figure 3) Hole 25ODD-124W (Figure 3) 2.64 g/t Au over 41.8m including 9.25 g/t Au over 4.5m 3.49 g/t Au over 17.4m including 6.31 g/t Au over 7.4m 5.66 g/t Au over 7.5m (Figure 3) Hole 25ODD-121 9.85 g/t Au over 2.9m 13.74 g/t Au over 3.5m 11.26 g/t Au over 2.0m 2.64 g/t Au over 12.4m Hole 25ODD-120 1.66 g/t Au over 37.8m 2.74 g/t Au over 9.4m 0.96 g/t Au over 17.2m Hole 25ODD-118 3.10 g/t Au over 14.5m 9.81 g/t Au over 2.5m Elaine Ellingham, President & CEO, commented: "Today's news marks another excellent batch of drill results from the resource expansion drill program at Wenot. Highlights in hole 25ODD-119 alone include 31.70 g/t Au over 7.5m (17.36 g/t Au capped), 1.61 g/t Au over 36.4m, and 3.89 g/t Au over 13.2m. These drill results again exemplify the multiple zones we have at Wenot, with each hole testing multiple gold zones across the wide Wenot shear corridor. The Wenot shear corridor reaches widths of 350-400m in the central portion and extends at least 2.5km along strike. We are confident that the limits of the Wenot mineralization are still open for further expansion. With the very successful drilling over the past 18 months, we believe it is in the best interest of our shareholders to update the Mineral Resource Estimate. Our Wenot mantra over the past year has been simple: "How Big Is It?". The 2024-25 Wenot resource expansion drill program has now exceeded 33,000m and the updated Mineral Resource Estimate is underway. Focused additional drilling at Wenot will continue in support of the updated Preliminary Economic Assessment that is expected 3 to 4 months following the updated MRE. Drilling is now shifting towards earlier-stage gold targets both along strike at Wenot and on certain near-surface zones where gold has already been identified. One drill has been mobilized to our Blueberry Hill target area and a second to the Camp Zone. The objective is to identify and quantify near-surface economic satellite deposits that could contribute to early mining. Concurrently, our exciting hole 25ODD-122, targeting both the Gilt Creek deposit and the Wenot depth potential, continues to progress well, and recently passed the 1,550m downhole mark (see News Release May 23, 2025). Drilling has been slow but steady." Details on the currently reported holes are as follows: Hole 25ODD-119 (Figure 2) was drilled from the north side of Wenot approximately 50m west of holes 24ODD-092 and 25ODD-101, both of which intersected broad zones of high-grade gold mineralization within the most prolific historically-mined zone known as the "Dike Corridor". Within the Dike Corridor, Hole 25ODD-119 intersected nine gold zones, the best ones being 3.57 g/t Au over 5.4m, 3.89 g/t Au over 13.2m (including 21.9 g/t Au over 1.2m) and 31.70 g/t Au over 7.5m (which includes 141.74 g/t Au over 1.5m). These zones were intersected at a vertical depth of approximately 280m and extend to a depth of 380m, however older shallower holes show similarly impressive grades and widths within this Dike Corridor. The correlation and extent of these multiple gold zones is best illustrated in Figure 2. The interval assaying 31.7 g/t Au over 7.5m corresponds well to 50m up-dip interval of 3.83 g/t Au over 18.8m in hole 25ODD-101 and the 50m down-dip interval of 4.48 g/t Au over 57.0m in hole 24ODD-092. Also significant, Hole 119 continued on to intersect 1.61 g/t Au over 36.3m (including 4.60 g/t Au over 3.0m) in the central quartz feldspar porphyry dike "CQFP" at a vertical depth of approximately 450m. This CQFP was emplaced along the contact between the volcanic rocks on the north and the sedimentary sequence of rocks to the south. This mineralized QFP corresponds well with the 50m up-dip interval of 2.13 g/t Au over 48.5m (including 10.34 g/t Au over 3.3m) in hole 25ODD-101. All-in-all, hole 119 was spectacular and together with neighbouring holes -092 and -101 show the very significant potential of Wenot to host wide, high-grade zones within the larger resource. Important to note that all of these intervals are below the 2024 MRE pit shell and can be expected to contribute to the upcoming MRE. Hole 25ODD-124 (Figure 3) was drilled from the south side of Central Wenot across from Hole 25ODD-111 recently drilled from the north, and between holes 25ODD-120 & 121 drilled from the north and also reported in this release. Hole 124 targeted the Dike Corridor in an area 200m below the 2024 MRE and PEA pit shell. It intersected 5.67 g/t Au over 4.5m in the very persistent Southern Porphyry Dike (SPOR), a unit that can be traced the full strike essentially marking the southern extent of the main Wenot Shear Corridor. Often hosting visible gold, this is a particularly high-grade example of this zone. The SPOR occurs within the sedimentary sequence, approximately 100m south of the main contact. The CQFP was not sampled in this hole, due to the proximity of the wedged hole 124W. Hole 104 then was sampled through the Dike Corridor where it intersected 1.76 g/t Au over 20.5m, 0.54 g/t Au over 12.0m, and 0.70 g/t Au over 9.9m. Hole 25ODD-124 was wedged at 350m downhole in order to drill an up-dip gap area approximately 50-75m from the impressive 68.7m interval grading 3.16 g/t Au from hole 24ODD-085. The wedged Hole -124W went on to intersect the CQFP which assayed 3.49 g/t Au over 17.4m, including 6.31 g/t Au over 7.4m. Further downhole, in the Dike Corridor, the hole intersected 5.66 g/t Au over 7.5m and 2.64 g/t Au over 41.8m, including 9.25 g/t Au over 4.5m, and 0.76 g/t Au over 15.5m, starting at a vertical depth of 375m from surface and approximately 100m below the 2024 PEA pit shell. The nearby Hole 124 intersected equivalent zones within the Dike Corridor, including 1.76 g/t Au over 20.5m. Hole 25ODD-120 was drilled from the north side of Central Wenot designed to test the Dike Corridor at depth below hole 24ODD-085. The hole was not intended to extend to the central QFP zone that was already tested to a depth of 465m where it assayed 2.02 g/t Au over 18.7m. In 2024, Hole -085 intersected 3.16 g/t Au over 68.7m, including 6.65 g/t Au over 29.9m within the Dike Corridor (News Release dated December 4, 2024). Hole -120 was to test 50m below those intervals. It intersected at least 6 intervals of gold mineralization within the Dike Corridor and although a 68m interval was not intersected, the downdip extension did intersect 2.74 g/t Au over 9.4m, 9.29 g/t Au over 1.7m, 1.26 g/t Au over 11.0m, and 1.66 g/t Au over 37.8m. These intervals represent a cumulative 59.9m of gold mineralization (not continuous) within the Dike Corridor, approximately 150m below the 2024 PEA pit shell. The hole also intersected 0.96 g/t Au over 17.2m in the northern extreme of the Dike Corridor, within the volcanics. Hole 25ODD-121 was drilled from the north side of Central Wenot behind hole 21ODD-025 and between recently drilled holes 24ODD-091 (50m to the east) and 25ODD-111 (50m to the west). Hole 25ODD-121 intersected several intervals of gold mineralization approximately 100m below Hole 21ODD-025, including 9.85 g/t Au over 2.9m and 13.74 g/t Au over 3.5m,11.26 g/t Au over 2.0m and other minor zones. Hole 121 then intersected 2.64 g/t Au over 12.4m at the CQFP at a vertical depth of 400m from surface, approximately 150m below the 2024 PEA pit shell. Further downhole, 3.30 g/t Au over 5.3m was intersected within the southern sediments. Hole 25ODD-118 was drilled about km east from the above holes, from the north side towards the eastern end of Wenot, in an area less drilled. It targeted 100-200m down-dip from the 2024 MRE and PEA pit shell. At a relatively shallow vertical depth of approximately 200m, Hole 25ODD-118 intersected 1.23 g/t Au over 10.5m within the volcanics to the north that could be the extension of one of the known splays. Within the Dike Corridor, wide diorite dikes were encountered with several narrow felsic dikes. Only minor gold zones were intersected in the Dike Corridor in this hole, but included 2.61 g/t Au over 2.6m and 1.73 g/t Au over 4.0m. Further downhole, the CQFP hosted various intervals of gold mineralization including 0.55 g/t Au over 6.0m and 1.43 g/t Au over 6.0m. In the southern sedimentary sequence, the hole intersected 3.10 g/t Au over 14.5m, 5.2 g/t Au over 2.4m and then bottomed in 9.81 g/t Au over 2.5m, at a vertical depth of approximately 450m. Table 1. Recent Wenot Drill Results* DDH FROM (m) TO (m) INTERVAL (m) GRADE (g/t Au) 25ODD-118 297.0 307.5 10.5 1.23 439.0 441.6 2.6 2.61 472.0 476.0 4.0 1.73 499.0 500.4 1.4 1.55 601.4 607.4 6.0 0.55 611.0 617.0 6.0 1.43 625.2 627.6 2.4 5.20 636.5 651.0 14.5 3.10 676.0 678.5 2.5 9.81 25ODD-119 183.1 185.5 2.4 1.64 401.0 406.4 5.4 3.57 417.8 431.0 **13.2 3.89 Including 423.5 426.0 2.5 6.02 And including 429.8 431.0 1.3 21.90 446.0 447.1 1.1 1.20 456.3 457.3 1.0 2.40 495.5 503.0 7.5 31.70 Including 499.5 501.0 1.5 141.74 511.5 513.0 1.5 1.71 521.5 524.5 3.0 1.47 534.5 537.5 3.0 1.49 544.7 549.0 4.4 0.93 566.0 567.5 1.5 1.02 622.9 659.3 36.4 1.61 Including 634.0 637.7 3.8 3.26 And including 644.5 647.5 3.0 4.60 676.5 680.5 4.0 1.59 25ODD-120 285.0 286.4 1.4 3.77 432.0 449.2 17.2 0.96 Including 445.1 449.2 4.1 2.02 509.8 511.3 1.5 1.41 571.0 580.4 9.4 2.74 590.8 598.6 7.9 0.41 603.0 614.0 11.0 1.26 632.2 670.0 **37.8 1.66 25ODD-121 154.7 156.0 1.3 2.05 227.0 228.5 1.5 1.01 333.0 335.9 2.9 9.85 420.5 424.0 3.5 13.74 515.7 516.3 0.6 1.16 552.0 554.0 2.0 11.26 560.2 561.5 1.3 2.08 573.3 576.0 2.7 2.17 579.6 582.0 2.4 0.51 595.5 607.9 12.4 2.64 713.2 718.5 5.3 3.30 Including 716.0 718.5 2.5 6.67 25ODD-124 266.5 271.0 4.5 5.67 287.5 289.0 1.5 1.53 570.8 591.3 20.5 1.76 Including 576.0 579.5 3.5 5.46 601.0 613.0 12.0 0.54 623.5 633.4 9.9 0.70 25ODD-124W 415.5 417.0 1.5 1.29 440.1 457.5 17.4 3.49 Including 443.8 451.2 7.4 6.31 518.0 525.5 7.5 5.66 533.0 574.8 **41.8 2.64 Including 555.9 560.4 4.5 9.25 598.0 613.5 15.5 0.76 *True widths vary as mineralization at Wenot is generally hosted within stockwork vein systems with alteration halos, with an estimated true width range of 70-90%. Cut-off grade 0.30 g/t Au with maximum 3.0m internal dilution is applied. **A maximum 5.0m internal dilution is applied. Grades are uncapped unless otherwise noted. Figure 1. Omai Plan Map Showing Drill Hole Locations To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8712/260484_d2b4eed73429b92e_001full.jpg Figure 2. Cross-section for Hole 25ODD-119 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8712/260484_d2b4eed73429b92e_002full.jpg Figure 3. Cross-section for Holes 25ODD-120 and 25ODD-124/124W To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8712/260484_d2b4eed73429b92e_003full.jpg Table 2. Drill Hole Coordinates Hole ID Azimuth (degrees) Inclination (degrees) Easting Northing Depth (m) Status 25ODD-114 176 -57 304790 602030 700.0 Pending 25ODD-115 355 -52 305429 601248 106.5 Previously Reported 25ODD-116 356 -50 304487 601468 571.6 Previously Reported 25ODD-117 176 -50 305429 601849 646.0 Pending 25ODD-118 176 -53 305928 601800 541.0 Reporting 25ODD-119 175 -54 305028 601981 356.0 Reporting 25ODD-120 176 -54 305182 602067 688.0 Reporting 25ODD-121 176 -54 305289 601928 739.7 Reporting 25ODD-122 142 -60 304648 602870 Drilling 25ODD-123 357 -50 304533 601522 109.5 Pending 25ODD-124 357 -54 305233 601282 644.0 Reporting 25ODD-124W 357 -54 305233 601282 656.0 Reporting 1NI 43-101 Technical Report dated May 21, 2024 "UPDATED MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE AND PRELIMINARY ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT OF THE OMAI GOLD PROPERTY, POTARO MINING DISTRICT NO.2, GUYANA" was prepared by Eugene Puritch, P.Eng., FEC, CET, President of P&E Mining Consultants Inc. is available on SEDAR+ and on the Company's website. It includes a Wenot resource of 834,000 indicated ounces of gold averaging 1.48 g/t Au within 17.6 million tonnes and 1,614,000 inferred ounces of gold averaging 1.99 g/t Au within 25.2 million tonnes, and the adjacent Gilt Creek resource of 1,151,000 indicated ounces of gold averaging 3.22 g/t Au within 11.1 million tonnes and 665,000 inferred ounces of gold averaging 3.35 g/t Au within 6.2 million tonnes. 2 Past production at the Omai Mine (1993-2005) is summarized in several Cambior Inc. documents available on SEDARplus.ca, including March 31, 2006 AIF and news release August 3, 2006. Quality Control Omai maintains an internal QA/QC program to ensure sampling and analysis of all exploration work is conducted in accordance with best practices. Certified reference materials, blanks and duplicates are entered at regular intervals. Samples are sealed in plastic bags. Drill core samples (halved-core) were shipped to ActLabs and some batches to MSALABS, both certified laboratories in Georgetown Guyana, respecting the best chain of custody practices. At the laboratory, samples are dried, crushed up to 80% passing 2 mm, riffle split (250 g), and pulverized to 95% passing 105 m, including cleaner sand. Fifty grams of pulverized material is then fire assayed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AA). Initial assays with results above 3.0 ppm gold are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish. For samples with visible gold two separate 250g or 500g pulverized samples are prepared, with 50 grams of each fire assayed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, with assays above 3.0 ppm gold being re-assayed using a gravimetric finish. Certified reference materials and blanks meet with QA/QC specifications. Qualified Person Elaine Ellingham is a Qualified Person (QP) under National Instrument 43-101 "Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects" and has approved the technical information contained in this news release. Ms. Ellingham is not considered to be independent for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101. ABOUT OMAI GOLD Omai Gold Mines Corp. is a Canadian gold exploration and development company focused on rapidly expanding the two orogenic gold deposits at its 100%-owned Omai Gold Project in mining-friendly Guyana, South America. The Company has established the Omai Gold Project as one of the fastest growing and well-endowed gold camps in the prolific Guiana Shield greenstone belt. In February 2024 the Company announced an updated NI 43-101 Mineral Resource Estimate1 ("MRE") of 29 million tonnes grading 2.15 g/t Au and containing 2.0 million ounces of gold (Indicated) and 31 million tonnes grading 2.26 g/t Au and containing 2.3 million ounces (Inferred), comprised of both the Wenot open pit deposit and the adjacent Gilt Creek underground deposit. This was followed by an initial baseline Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") in April 2024, which contemplated an open pit-only development scenario and included only 45% of the Omai Gold Project MRE. Subsequent to the 2024 MRE, the Company has been aggressively drilling to expand gold resources at the Wenot deposit and has identified additional wide zones of high-grade gold mineralization. In 2025 Omai Gold plans to continue its impactful drill programs, announce an updated and expanded MRE, and complete an updated PEA which would include an expanded Wenot open pit deposit and an underground mining scenario at Gilt Creek. The Omai Gold Mine produced over 3.7 million ounces of gold from 1993 to 20052, ceasing operations when gold was below US$400 per ounce. The Omai site benefits from much existing infrastructure and will soon be connected to the two largest cities in Guyana, Georgetown and Linden, via paved road. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the timing of completion of exploration, trenching and drill programs, and the potential for the Omai Gold Project to allow Omai to build significant gold Mineral Resources at attractive grades, and forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; delay or failure to receive regulatory approvals; the price of gold and copper; and the results of current exploration. Further, the Mineral Resource data set out in the Omai Gold news release are estimates, and no assurance can be given that the anticipated tonnages and grades will be achieved or that the indicated level of recovery will be realized. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Further, the Preliminary Economic Assessments and related data discussed in this news release are estimates, and no assurance can be given that the anticipated tonnages and grades will be achieved or that the indicated level of recovery will be realized. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Omai Gold Mines Corp. to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks related to international operations; actual results of current exploration activities; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; future prices of gold, copper and other minerals and metals; general market conditions; possible variations in ore reserves, grade or recovery rates; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; uncertainty of access to additional capital; delays in obtaining governmental approvals or in the completion of development or construction activities. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260484 SOURCE: Omai Gold Mines Corp. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQB: APAAF) (FSE: A0I0) (MUN: A0I0) (BER: A0I0) (the "Company" or "Appia") is pleased to announce it has acquired two auger drill rigs and initiated Phase 1 of a new 241-hole auger campaign, which will begin with the first 100 holes. These first holes will test the newly defined Gaia target, located adjacent to the Taygeta and Merope zones within the PCH rare-earth element (REE) project in Goias State, Brazil (Figure 1). This area was selected for its strong geological and geophysical similarities to Taygeta and Merope, where previous drilling identified high-grade, shallow ionic-adsorption clay (IAC) mineralization. Drilling is scheduled to begin by August 1st, 2025. "With this drilling phase, we aim to evaluate the newly identified Gaia target, which shares the same geological and geophysical characteristics as the Taygeta and Merope zones. Our objective is to complete infill drilling to confirm the rare earth potential of the area and further define additional mineralized zones to support the project's continued advancement," said Tom Drivas, CEO & Director. The auger drilling campaign will now focus on the Gaia target, aiming to evaluate whether it hosts comparable rare earth element potential. While no geochemical analyses have yet been conducted in Gaia, its striking resemblance in terrain, lithology, and magnetic response to Taygeta and Merope-zones that returned excellent TREO grades with highly favorable desorption characteristics-makes it a priority for Phase 1 exploration (see News Release dated February 4, 2025). The PCH property sits on gently rolling terrain with convenient infrastructure just 15 minutes from a nearby mining town. Appia's PCH Project hosts two distinct styles of critical rare earth element (CREE) mineralization: Ionic Adsorption Clays (IAC) and high-grade carbonatitic breccia. Rare earths contained in IAC are typically more easily extractable, offering significantly lower operating (Opex) and capital costs (Capex). This is due to the simple extraction process, which avoids blasting, crushing, and milling-eliminating the generation of tailings and the need for a tailings storage facility. Instead, the material is amenable to leaching using ammonium sulfate, a common and cost-effective fertilizer. The PCH project contains significant amounts of heavy rare earths needed to meet the increasing demand for permanent magnets used in EVs and other application in the clean energy transition. The technical content in this news release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Don Hains, P.Geo, Consulting Geologist, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Please Click Here for the full list of drill hole coordinates. Figure 1 - Proposed Auger Drill Targets (yellow dots) for the 2025 PCH Program. Auger drilling is being conducted in Phase 1 to assess the rare earth potential of the newly defined Gaia target, which shares geological and geophysical characteristics with the nearby Taygeta and Merope zones. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5416/260417_b7faeaadd45b6b13_001full.jpg Figure 2 - Location of historic and planned DDH, RC, and Auger drillholes on PCH. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5416/260417_b7faeaadd45b6b13_002full.jpg About Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. Appia is a publicly traded Canadian company in the rare earth element and uranium sectors. The Company holds the right to acquire up to a 70% interest in the PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project (See June 9th, 2023 Press Release - Click HERE) which is 42,932.24 ha. in size and located within the Goias State of Brazil. (See January 11th, 2024 Press Release - Click HERE) The Company is also focusing on delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements and gallium on the Alces Lake property, and exploring for high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Otherside, Loranger, North Wollaston, and Eastside properties. The Company holds the surface rights to exploration for 94,982.39 hectares (234,706.59 acres) in Saskatchewan. The Company also has a 100% interest in 13,008 hectares (32,143 acres), with rare earth elements and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario. Appia has 168.5 million common shares outstanding, 207.8 million shares fully diluted. Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements: This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or including the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For more information, visit www.appiareu.com. As part of our ongoing effort to keep investors, interested parties and stakeholders updated, we have several communication portals. If you have any questions online (X, Facebook, LinkedIn) please feel free to send direct messages. To book a one-on-one 30-minute Zoom video call, please click here. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260417 SOURCE: Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - AbraSilver Resource Corp. (TSX: ABRA) (OTCQX: ABBRF) ("AbraSilver" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a substantial increase to the Mineral Resource estimate ("MRE") on the Company's wholly owned Diablillos property in Argentina ("Diablillos" or the "Project"). The updated MRE now totals 104 million tonnes ("Mt") of ore, containing approximately 199 million ounces ("Moz") of silver and 1.72 Moz of gold (350 Moz silver-equivalent "AgEq") in the Measured & Indicated ("M&I") category. This total includes a maiden heap leach Mineral Resource estimate and reflects significant increases across five deposits (Oculto, JAC, Fantasma, Laderas and Sombra) located at Diablillos Key Highlights of the Updated MRE (Combined Tank and Heap Leach): Total M&I Mineral Resources (tank and heap leach) now stand at 104 Mt grading 59 g/t Ag and 0.51 g/t Au, containing 199 Moz Ag and 1.72 Moz Au (350 Moz AgEq). Tank leach Mineral Resource estimate totals 73 Mt grading 79 g/t Ag and 0.66 g/t Au, containing 186 Moz Ag and 1.55 Moz Au (327 Moz AgEq). Maiden heap leach MRE adds 31 Mt grading 13 g/t Ag and 0.16 g/t Au, containing 13 Moz Ag and 162 koz Au (23 Moz AgEq). Based on lower-grade material contained with the constraining Whittle open pit, previously classified as waste, now recognized as potentially recoverable though a low-cost processing route. Key Changes Compared to Prior MRE (Tank Leach Only): 25% increase in contained silver in M&I Mineral Resources to 186 Moz Ag from 148 Moz Ag. 14% increase in contained gold in M&I Mineral Resources to 1.55 Moz Au from 1.36Moz Au. 27% increase in M&I silver-equivalent ounces to 327 Moz AgEq from 258 Moz AgEq. M&I Mineral Resources total 73.1 Mt grading 79 g/t Ag and 0.66 g/t Au (139 g/t AgEq). Total Inferred Mineral Resources have increased by 330% and now contain 10 Moz Ag and 0.18 Moz Au (26.6 Moz AgEq). The MRE contains only minerals in oxides, located across five Whittle constrained open-pits deposits (Oculto, JAC, Fantasma, Laderas and Sombra). The largest uplift in the M&I MRE was driven by the JAC deposit, where tonnage increased by 148% and contained silver increased by 70% (refer to Table 3 for details) due primarily to additional exploration drilling. Significant exploration upside remains from the ongoing Phase V drill program, focused mainly at Oculto NE and other potential zones, with another MRE update expected in H1/26. John Miniotis, President and CEO, commented, "We are very excited to report that M&I Mineral Resources at Diablillos have now grown to nearly 200 Moz of silver and over 1.7 Moz of gold. This substantial increase highlights the exceptional mineral endowment of our Project and our team's continued success in unlocking value through exploration. This updated Mineral Resource estimate will form the basis for the upcoming Definitive Feasibility Study ("DFS"), which remains on track for completion in Q1/2026." David O'Connor, Chief Geologist, stated, "The updated MRE demonstrates both the large-scale and high-quality of Diablillos. The JAC zone, in particular, has been a major driver of Mineral Resource growth and is expected to be a key focus of early mining stages, with its high-grade and near-surface location. With significant exploration potential still ahead of us from our ongoing Phase V drill program, we anticipate continued Mineral Resource expansion and additional discoveries across multiple targets." July 2025 Mineral Resource Estimate Statement Table 1 - Total Diablillos Mineral Resource Summary (Tank & Heap Leach) - As of July 21, 2025. Zone Category Tonnes (000 t) Ag (g/t) Au (g/t) AgEq (g/t) Contained Ag (000 Oz Ag) Contained Au (000 Oz Ag) Contained AgEq (000 Oz Ag) Tank Leach Oxides Measured 26,545 119 0.71 183 101,564 604 156,487 Indicated 46,584 56 0.63 114 84,430 948 170,592 Measured & 73,129 79 0.66 139 185,994 1,553 327,078 Indicated Inferred 9,693 34 0.57 86 10,616 176 26,647 Heap Leach Oxides Measured 6,673 16 0.14 25 3,486 30 5,342 Indicated 24,102 12 0.17 23 9,163 133 17,506 Measured & 30,774 13 0.16 23 12,649 162 22,848 Indicated Inferred 10,024 9 0.20 21 2,811 64 6,850 Total Oxides Measured 33,218 98 0.59 152 105,050 634 161,829 Indicated 70,686 41 0.48 83 93,593 1,081 188,098 Measured & 103,904 59 0.51 105 198,643 1,715 349,927 Indicated Inferred 19,628 21 0.38 53 13,427 241 33,496 Refer to footnotes in Tables 2 and 4 Figure 1 - Visualization of Oculto and JAC Mineral Resource Estimate To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11792/260453_ee5dbfc86493b8be_001full.jpg Table 2 - Diablillos Mineral Resource Estimate by Deposit (Tank Leach Material Only) - As of July 21, 2025. Deposit Zone Category Tonnes (000 t) Ag (g/t) Au (g/t) AgEq (g/t) Contained Ag (000 Oz) Contained Au (000 Oz) Contained AgEq (000 Oz) Oculto Oxides Measured 20,485 107 0.89 188 70,193 588 123,611 Indicated 36,898 45 0.77 115 53,128 917 136,439 Measured & Indicated 57,382 67 0.82 141 123,321 1,505 260,051 Inferred 8,026 27 0.67 88 6,898 173 22,663 JAC Oxides Measured 6,061 161 0.08 169 31,371 17 32,875 Indicated 7,073 119 0.05 124 27,121 11 28,090 Measured & 13,134 139 0.06 144 58,492 27 60,965 Indicated Inferred 1,036 77 0.01 78 2,558 0 2,602 Fantasma Oxides Measured - - - - - - - Indicated 1,049 72 0.01 73 2,436 0 2,455 Measured & Indicated 1,049 72 0.01 73 2,436 0 2,455 Inferred 475 64 0.01 65 978 0 986 Laderas Oxides Measured - - - - - - - Indicated 806 17 0.67 78 428 17 2,014 Measured & Indicated 806 17 0.67 78 428 17 2,014 Inferred 104 15 0.68 77 51 2 259 Sombra Oxides Measured - - - - - - - Indicated 758 54 0.12 65 1,317 3 1,594 Measured & Indicated 758 54 0.12 65 1,317 3 1,594 Inferred 51 80 0.04 84 131 0 137 Total (tank leach) Oxides Measured 26,545 119 0.71 183 101,564 604 156,487 Indicated 46,584 56 0.63 114 84,430 948 170,592 Measured & Indicated 73,129 79 0.66 139 185,994 1,553 327,078 Inferred 9,693 34 0.57 79 10,616 176 26,647 Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and have not demonstrated economic viability. The formula for calculating AgEq is as follows: Silver Eq Oz = Silver Oz + Gold Oz x (Gold Price/Silver Price) x (Gold Recovery/Silver Recovery). The Mineral Resource model was populated using Ordinary Kriging grade estimation within a three-dimensional block model and mineralized zones defined by wireframed solids, which are a combination of lithology and alteration domains. The 1m composite grades were capped where appropriate. The Mineral Resource is reported inside a conceptual Whittle open pit shell derived using US$ 27.50/oz Ag price, US $2,400/oz Au price, 83% process recovery for Ag, and 87% process recovery for Au. The constraining open pit optimization parameters used were US $1.94/t mining cost, US $22.96/t processing cost, US $3.32/t G&A cost, and average 51-degree open pit slopes. The MRE has been categorized in accordance with the CIM Definition Standards (CIM, 2014). A Net Value per block [NVB] calculation was used to constrain the Mineral Resource, determine the "Benefits = Income-Cost", where, Income = [(Au Selling Price (US$/oz) - Au Selling Cost (USD/Oz)) x (Au grade (g/t)/31.1035)) x Au Recovery (%)] + [(Ag Selling Price (US$/oz) - Ag Selling Cost (USD/Oz)) x (Ag grade (g/t)/31.1035)) x Ag Recovery (%)] and Cost = Mining Cost (US$/t) + Process Cost (US$/t) + Transport Cost (US$/t) + G&A Cost (US$/t) + [Royalty Cost (%) x Income] The Mineral Resource is sub-horizontal with sub-vertical feeders and a reasonable prospect for eventual economic extraction by open pit and tank leach processing methods. In-situ bulk density were assigned to each model domain, according to samples averages for each lithology domain, separated by alteration zones and subset by oxidation. All tonnages reported are dry metric tonnes and ounces of contained gold are troy ounces. Mining recovery and dilution factors have not been applied to the Mineral Resource estimates. The Mineral Resource was estimated by Luis Rodrigo Peralta, B.Sc., FAusIMM CP (Geo), Independent Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Mr. Peralta is not aware of any environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues that could materially affect the potential development of the Mineral Resource. All figures are rounded to reflect the relative accuracy of the estimates. Minor discrepancies may occur due to rounding to appropriate significant figures. Updated Tank Leach Mineral Resource Estimate Highlights Significant Growth at JAC and Oculto The largest gains in the updated tank leach MRE stem from significant extensions at the JAC and Oculto deposits. These expansions underscore the high-grade continuity of mineralization at both deposits and their central role in supporting the upcoming mine plan. In total, the Diablillos project is now comprised of five deposits (Oculto, JAC, Fantasma, Laderas and Sombra) containing defined Mineral Resources. At Oculto , M&I tonnage increased by 23% , with contained silver up 11% and gold up 14%. The growth is primarily driven by strong drill results from holes DDH-24-011, DDH-24-021, DDH-24-027, DDH-24-031, DDH-24-034, DDH-24-043, DDH-24-049, DDH-24-051, DDH-24-052, DDH-25-011 and DDH-25-024, which extended both the Silver Enrichment and Deep Gold zones to the northeast. At JAC , M&I Mineral Resources increased by 148% in tonnage , with contained silver rising 70% and contained gold up 23% . This substantial increase reflects the success of the Phase IV drilling campaign, which focused on extending the orebody to the southwest and expanding the margins, further highlighting the potential of high-grade, near-surface silver mineralization in this area. At Fantasma, M&I Mineral Resources grew by 54% in tonnage and 6% in contained silver. The increase in metal price assumptions has upgraded material previously classified as waste into lower grade mineralization, enhancing the size of the Mineral Resource in this area. At Laderas, M&I tonnage rose by 74% , with contained silver up 79% and gold up 21%. As with Fantasma, higher metal price assumptions have led to the reclassification of material previously categorized as waste into lower grade silver and gold mineralization. At Sombra, the initial M&I Mineral Resource is supported by 11 initial drill holes in this newly discovered area. Drill holes DDH-24-069, DDH-24-062, DDH-24-036, DDH-25-019 and DDH-25-026 confirm the potential of this zone. Although still at an early stage, Sombra shows significant potential as the mineralization lies beneath only 35 metres of easily mineable unconsolidated colluvial cover. Table 3 - Comparison of the July 2025 M&I MRE (tank leach) to the Prior Estimate (November 2023). Deposit Category Tonnes (000 t) Ag (g/t) Au (g/t) Contained Ag (k oz Ag) Contained Au (k oz Au) Oculto Current Resource Measured & Indicated 57,382 67 0.82 123,321 1,505 Prior Resource Measured & Indicated 46,824 74 0.88 111,401 1,325 Variance (%) 23% -9% -7% 11% 14% Current Resource Measured & Indicated 13,134 139 0.06 58,492 27 JAC Prior Resource Measured & Indicated 5,286 202 0.13 34,329 22 Variance (%) 148% -31% -54% 70% 23% Fantasma Current Resource Measured & Indicated 1,049 72 - 2,436 - Prior Resource Measured & Indicated 683 105 - 2,306 - Variance (%) 54% -31% - 6% - Laderas Current Resource Measured & Indicated 806 17 0.67 428 17 Prior Resource Measured & Indicated 464 16 0.91 239 14 Variance (%) 74% 6% -26% 79% 21% Sombra Current Resource Measured & Indicated 758 54 0.12 1,317 3 Prior Resource Measured & Indicated - - - - - Variance (%) n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a All deposits (tank leach only) Current Resource Measured & Indicated 73,129 79 0.66 185,994 1,553 Prior Resource Measured & Indicated 53,257 87 0.79 148,275 1,360 Variance (%) 37% -9% -16% 25% 14% Notes to Mineral Comparison Table Key Assumptions in July 2025 MRE: Ag price: $ 27.50/oz & Au price: $2,400/oz Average recovery rates (tank leach): 82.6% Ag and 86.5% Au Cut-off grade: based on Net Value per Block, with an average cut-off grade equivalent to ~39 g/t AgEq Open pit optimization parameters: Mining cost; $1.94/t; Processing cost; $22.97/t; G&A cost $3.32/t Key Assumptions in 2023 MRE: Ag price: $ 24.00/oz & Au price: $1,850/oz Average recovery rates (tank leach): 82.6% Ag and 86.5% Au Cut-off grade: based on Net Value per Block, with an average cut-off grade equivalent to ~45 g/t AgEq Open pit optimization parameters: Mining cost; $1.94/t; Processing cost; $22.97/t; G&A cost $3.32/t For additional details, please refer to "NI 43-101 Technical Report, Mineral Resource Estimate, Diablillos Project" with an effective date of November 22, 2023 and available on the Company's profile on www.sedarplus.ca. Heap Leach Mineral Resource Estimate The inclusion of a maiden heap leach Mineral Resource estimate marks an important milestone for Diablillos. This additional M&I tonnage of 30.8 Mt of lower-grade material is contained within the same constraining Whittle open pit as described above for the tank leach MRE. The vast majority of this tonnage, which is sourced from the Oculto deposit, was previously classified as waste and now provides the opportunity to reduce the strip ratio and further enhance overall Project economics. Preliminary metallurgical testwork has demonstrated that the heap leach material offers a potential incremental, cost-effective processing route that complements the primary tank leach circuit. A Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") evaluating the additional heap leach potential is planned for completion in H1 2026. Table 4 - Diablillos Mineral Resource Estimate (Heap Leach Material Only) - As of July 21, 2025. Deposit Zone Category Tonnes (000 t) Ag (g/t) Au (g/t) AgEq (g/t) Contained Ag (000 Oz Ag) Contained Au (000 Oz Ag) Contained AgEq (000 Oz Ag) Total Oxides Measured 6,673 16 0.14 25 3,486 30 5,342 Indicated 24,102 12 0.17 23 9,163 133 17,506 Measured & 30,774 13 0.16 23 12,649 162 22,848 Indicated Inferred 10,024 9 0.20 27 2,811 64 6,850 Notes for July 2025 MRE (Heap Leach Material): Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and have not demonstrated economic viability. The formula for calculating AgEq is as follows: Silver Eq Oz = Silver Oz + Gold Oz x (Gold Price/Silver Price) x (Gold Recovery/Silver Recovery). The Mineral Resource model was populated using Ordinary Kriging grade estimation within a three-dimensional block model and mineralized zones defined by wireframed solids, which are a combination of lithology and alteration domains. The 1m composite grades were capped where appropriate. The Mineral Resource is reported inside a conceptual Whittle open pit shell derived using US$ 27.50/oz Ag price, US $2,400/oz Au price, 80% process recovery for Ag, and 58% process recovery for Au. The constraining open pit optimization parameters used and overall operational cost of US $11.31/t. The MRE has been categorized in accordance with the CIM Definition Standards (CIM, 2014). A Net Value per block [NVB] calculation was used to constrain the Mineral Resource, determine the "Benefits = Income-Cost", where, Income = [(Au Selling Price (US$/oz) - Au Selling Cost (USD/Oz)) x (Au grade (g/t)/31.1035)) x Au Recovery (%)] + [(Ag Selling Price (US$/oz) - Ag Selling Cost (USD/Oz)) x (Ag grade (g/t)/31.1035)) x Ag Recovery (%)] and Cost = Mining Cost (US$/t) + Process Cost (US$/t) + Transport Cost (US$/t) + G&A Cost (US$/t) + [Royalty Cost (%) x Income] In-situ bulk density were assigned to each model domain, according to samples averages for each lithology domain, separated by alteration zones and subset by oxidation. All tonnages reported are dry metric tonnes and ounces of contained gold are troy ounces. Mining recovery and dilution factors have not been applied to the Mineral Resource estimates. The Mineral Resource was estimated by Mr. Peralta, B.Sc., FAusIMM CP (Geo), Independent Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Mr. Peralta is not aware of any environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues that could materially affect the potential development of the Mineral Resource. All figures are rounded to reflect the relative accuracy of the estimates. Minor discrepancies may occur due to rounding to appropriate significant figures. Figure 2 - Plan View of Mineral Resource Estimate To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11792/260453_ee5dbfc86493b8be_002full.jpg Significant Exploration Upside Potential There remains substantial potential to further expand the Diablillos Mineral Resource estimate within the existing deposits, particularly at Oculto East. Ongoing and planned drilling is aimed at both step-out exploration and defining new high-grade zones to extend the current Mineral Resources. The Company is advancing its fully-funded Phase V drill program, which includes an additional 20,000 metres of drilling scheduled for completion by early 2026. Existing Deposits: Oculto: Ongoing exploration is focused on extending known zones of mineralization, particularly towards the northeast, where Oculto East represents a key growth opportunity. Results from recently announced hole DDH 25-024, with 31m @ 9.96g/t Au and 16.2g/t Ag, show the very high-grade gold potential of the Oculto East area, and follow up drilling is underway with three rigs. Geological interpretation has identified several structures in the area with high-grade gold potential. JAC: Upcoming drilling will test the margins of the conceptual constraining open pit where mineralization remains open. Sombra: An initial Mineral Resource has now been established, and additional drilling is planned to expand this new discovery. The mineralized zone is very shallow, covered by unconsolidated colluvium, and is open along strike. Drilling was postponed here following the high-grade gold intercept at Oculto East, which became the priority exploration area. Diablillos Porphyry Complex: Cerro Viejo: The shallow intercept of 36.0m at 1.91 g/t gold in hole DDH 24-056 in the root zone of epithermal mineralization at Cerro Viejo is scheduled for follow-up drilling later this year. Mapping has shown that gold mineralized silicified zones extend significantly towards the west of hole DDH 24-056. Cerro Blanco: This is the highest priority area for porphyry style mineralization based on shallow historical Reverse Circulation ("RC") drill results and surface rock chip sampling of a mineralized breccia zone. The area has been mapped in detail and surface sampling completed in preparation for a deeper drilling program expected to commence before the end of August 2025. Mineral Resource Estimate Methodology The tank leach open pit constrained MRE for Diablillos is based on a Net Value per Block methodology that results in an approximate cut-off grade of approximately 39 g/t AgEq, derived from assumptions regarding specified metal prices and estimated operating costs for mining, processing and G&A. The updated processing assumptions now incorporate a secondary lower cost heap leaching metal recovery process for lower-grade material, complementing the primary tank leaching. The heap leach MRE has also employed a Net Value per Block method that results in a cut-off grade of approximately 22 g/t AgEq. The updated MRE was prepared by Luis Rodrigo Peralta, B.Sc., FAusIMM CP (Geo), Independent Consultant, in accordance with Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") Definition Standards incorporated, by reference, and in compliance with National Instrument NI 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (" NI 43-101 ") and has been reviewed internally by AbraSilver. The MRE incorporates approximately 157,211 metres of drilling from 733 drill holes (both historical and current). The MRE is based on the Oculto, JAC, Fantasma, Laderas and Sombra deposits within the broader Diablillos property, reported within a constraining Whittle open pit shell. The cut-off grade was determined using a Net Value per Block calculation, factoring in the economic parameters outlined in the Supporting Technical Disclosure section below. Gold and silver grades were estimated into the block model using RC and Diamond Drill Holes (DDH), including drilling completed up to March 30, 2025. Industry-standard estimation methodologies were applied, including Ordinary Kriging (OK) and validation against an Inverse Distance squared estimate (ID 2 ). Drill hole intervals were composited to a length of 1 metre, which is the average sampling length for core sampling. Grade capping was applied to composited grade intervals on a case-by-case basis for each estimation domain. Domains were defined by a combination of lithology, alteration, and oxide / sulphide state, resulting in a total of 24 estimation domains for gold and silver. Supporting Technical Disclosure Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The MRE incorporates geological and structural constraints and is constrained by an optimized Whittle open pit containing a total of 103.9 Mt of M&I Mineral Resources and 514 Mt of waste. Individual metals are reported at 100% of in-situ grades. The effective date of the MRE is July 21, 2025 and is based on drilling through March 30, 2025. There are no known legal, political, environmental, or other risks that could materially affect the potential development of the Mineral Resource. Key Assumptions are outlined below (all figures are in US dollars unless otherwise noted): Commodity prices used were US$ 27.50/oz Ag price and US $2,400/oz Au price Note: Commodity price assumptions were guided by the NI 43-101 requirement for the Mineral Resource to have 'reasonable prospects' of eventual economic extraction. Metallurgical recoveries: tank leach metallurgical recoveries applied to the Mineral Resources were obtained from a geo-metallurgical model that has been built, based on metallurgical test works performed at SGS Canada. This model incorporates five domains applied into the block model, based on a master composite for each, based on 15 samples per domain approximately. A fixed value of metallurgical recovery has been applied to each domain. Overall average of these five domains are 87% for gold and 83% for silver, respectively. Metallurgical recoveries: heap leach metallurgical recoveries were obtained from a preliminary bottle roll test work campaign on the lower grade mineralization. Recovery assumptions of 58% for gold and 80% for silver were used. Operating cost estimations: mining costs of $1.94/t; tank leach processing costs of $22.96/t and G&A costs of $3.32/t. As for the heap leach an overall processing cost of $11.31/t respectively. Open pit slopes: Open pit shell slope angles applied are based on 2022 geotechnical drilling and modelling. Six geotechnical sectors have been defined. The average overall angle assumed for open pit shell optimization was 51 degrees. A Net Value per block [NVB] calculation was used to constrain the Mineral Resource, determine the "Benefits = Income-Cost", where, Income = [(Au Selling Price (US$/oz) - Au Selling Cost (USD/Oz)) x (Au grade (g/t)/31.1035)) x Au Recovery (%)] + [(Ag Selling Price (US$/oz) - Ag Selling Cost (USD/Oz)) x (Ag grade (g/t)/31.1035)) x Ag Recovery (%)] and Cost = Mining Cost (US$/t) + Process Cost (US$/t) + Transport Cost (US$/t) + G&A Cost (US$/t) + [Royalty Cost (%) x Income]. The formula for calculating AgEq is as follows: Silver Eq Oz = Silver Oz + Gold Oz x (Gold Price/Silver Price) x (Gold Recovery/Silver Recovery). For additional information in respect of the Company's drill results referenced herein, please refer to the Company's news releases dated August 19, 2024, September 30, 2024, October 23, 2024, December 11, 2024, February 19, 2025, March 11, 2025, May 20, 2025 and July 15, 2025. QA/QC and Core Sampling Protocols AbraSilver applies industry standard exploration methodologies and techniques, and all drill core samples are collected under the supervision of the Company's geologists in accordance with industry best practices. Drill core is transported from the drill platform to the logging facility where drill data is compared and verified with the core in the trays. Thereafter, it is logged, photographed, and split by diamond saw prior to being sampled. Samples are then bagged, and quality control materials are inserted at regular intervals at site; these include blanks and certified reference materials as well as duplicate core samples which are collected in order to assess sampling precision and reproducibility. Groups of samples are then placed in large bags which are sealed with numbered tags in order to maintain a chain-of-custody during the transport of the samples from the project site to the laboratory. All samples are received by the ASA (Alex Stewart Argentina) preparation laboratory in Salta, where they are prepared, then the pulp sachet is directly dispatched to its facility in Mendoza, Argentina, where they are analyzed. All samples are analyzed using a multi-element technique consisting of a four-acid digestion followed by ICP/AES detection, and gold is analyzed by 50g Fire Assay with an AAS finish. Silver results greater than 100g/t are re-analyzed using four acid digestion with an ore grade AAS finish. Qualified Persons and Technical Information The site visit, review of various geological aspects including sampling techniques, drill core, logging, assay laboratory, secondary laboratory check samples and Mineral Resource estimate were done by Mr. Luis Rodrigo Peralta, B.Sc., FAusIMM CP (Geo). Mr. Peralta is an independent Qualified Person as defined by the NI 43-101. Mr. Peralta has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release. The full Technical Report in respect of the Mineral Resource estimate is being prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 and will be available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under the Company's issuer profile within 45 days from this news release. The effective date of the Mineral Resource estimate is July 21, 2025. About AbraSilver AbraSilver is an advanced-stage exploration company focused on rapidly advancing its 100%-owned Diablillos silver-gold project in the mining-friendly Salta province of Argentina. The current Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource estimate for Diablillos consists of 73.1 Mt grading 79 g/t Ag and 0.66 g/t Au, containing approximately 186Moz silver and 1.6Moz gold, with significant further upside potential based on recent exploration drilling. The Company is led by an experienced management team and has long-term supportive shareholders including Mr. Eric Sprott. In addition, AbraSilver owns a portfolio of earlier-stage copper-gold projects including the La Coipita copper-gold project in the San Juan province of Argentina. AbraSilver is listed on the TSX under the symbol "ABRA" and in the U.S on the OTCQX under the symbol "ABBRF". For further information please visit the AbraSilver Resource website at www.abrasilver.com, our LinkedIn page at AbraSilver Resource Corp., and follow us on X at www.x.com/abrasilver Alternatively, please contact: Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and/or "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expect", "is expected", "in order to", "is focused on" (a future event), "estimates", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", or the negative connotation thereof. In particular, statements regarding the Company's future operations, future exploration and development activities or other development plans constitute forward-looking statements. By their nature, statements referring to mineral reserves or mineral resources constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to statements with respect to the results (if any) of further exploration work to define and expand or upgrade mineral resources and reserves at the Project; the anticipated exploration, drilling, development, construction and other activities of the Company and the results of such activities, including the completion of a Feasibility Study in Q1/2026; the Mineral Resource estimates of the Project (and the assumptions underlying such estimates); the ability of exploration work (including drilling) to accurately predict mineralization; the completion and timing for the filing of the technical report; the ability to realize upon mineralization in a manner that is economic; and any other information herein that is not a historical fact. The Company considers its assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available but cautions the reader that these assumptions regarding future events, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, may ultimately prove to be incorrect since they are subject to risks and uncertainties that affect the Company, its properties and business. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, changes in demand for and price of gold, silver and other commodities (such as fuel and electricity) and currencies; changes or disruptions in the securities markets; legislative, political or economic developments in Argentina; changes in any of the assumptions underlying the MRE; the need to obtain permits and comply with laws and regulations and other regulatory requirements; the possibility that actual results of work may differ from projections/expectations or may not realize the perceived potential of the Company's projects; risks of accidents, equipment breakdowns and labour disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions; the possibility of cost overruns or unanticipated expenses in development programs; operating or technical difficulties in connection with exploration, mining or development activities; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities of grades of reserves and resources; and the risks involved in the exploration, development and mining business and the additional risks described in the Company's most recently filed Annual Information Form, annual and interim management's discussion and analysis and other disclosure documents which are available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under the Company's issuer profile. The Company's anticipation of and success in managing the foregoing risks could cause actual results to differ materially from what is anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Neither the TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Appendix I - Total Consolidated Mineral Resource Estimate (Tank & Heap Leaching) Deposit Zone Category Tonnes (000 t) Ag (g/t) Au (g/t) AgEq (g/t) Contained Ag (000 Oz Ag) Contained Au (000 Oz Ag) Contained AgEq (000 Oz Ag) Oculto Oxides Measured 27,107 84 0.71 149 73,634 617 128,901 Indicated 59,354 32 0.54 82 61,782 1,039 152,786 Measured & 86,461 49 0.60 103 135,417 1,656 281,687 Indicated Inferred 17,787 17 0.41 54 9,638 236 29,339 JAC Oxides Measured 6,111 160 0.08 168 31,416 17 32,928 Indicated 7,139 118 0.05 123 27,161 11 28,148 Measured & 13,250 138 0.06 143 58,577 28 61,076 Indicated Inferred 1,047 76 0.02 78 2,560 1 2,606 Fantasma Oxides Measured - - - - - - - Indicated 1,049 72 0.01 73 2,436 0 2,455 Measured & 1,049 72 0.01 73 2,436 0 2,455 Indicated Inferred 475 64 0.01 65 978 0 986 Laderas Oxides Measured - - - - - - - Indicated 1,844 12 0.40 49 726 24 2,715 Measured & 1,844 12 0.40 49 726 24 2,715 Indicated Inferred 320 10 0.35 42 106 4 398 Sombra Oxides Measured - - - - - - - Indicated 1,301 36 0.16 50 1,488 7 1,993 Measured & 1,301 36 0.16 50 1,488 7 1,993 Indicated Inferred 88 51 0.10 60 145 0 165 Total Oxides Measured 33,218 98 0.59 152 105,050 634 161,829 Indicated 70,686 41 0.47 83 93,593 1,081 188,098 Measured & 103,904 64 0.49 106 198,643 1,715 349,927 Indicated Inferred 19,628 21 0.38 52 13,427 241 33,496 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260453 SOURCE: AbraSilver Resource Corp. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Red Light Holland Corp. (CSE: TRIP) (FSE: 4YX) (OTCQB: TRUFF) ("Red Light Holland" or the "Company"), an Ontario-based corporation engaged in the production, growth, and sale of functional mushrooms, mushroom home grow kits in North America and Europe, and a premium brand of psilocybin truffles to the legal recreational market within the Netherlands, in compliance with all applicable laws, is pleased to report its Audited Annual Consolidated Financial Statements and Management's Discussion & Analysis ("MD&A") for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2025 and 2024. The full set of audited financials and MD&A can be accessed on the Company's website at www.RedLight.co and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Key Financial Highlights (FY 2025 vs FY 2024): Total Cash Balance: $12.838M in 2025 vs $14.372M in 2024 ( $1.534M) Revenue: $4.944M in 2025 vs $4.752M in 2024 ( $0.192M or +4.05%) Gross Profit: $1.913M in 2025 vs $2.020M in 2024 ( $0.107M or -5.31%) EBITDA Loss: $3.354M in 2025 vs $6.582M in 2024 ( $3.228M or -49.04%) Adjusted EBITDA Loss: $2.532M in 2025 vs $3.311M in 2024 ( $0.779M or -23.54%) Total Assets: $21.221M in 2025 vs $24.084M in 2024 ( $2.863M) Excess Cash: Invested in principle-protected interest savings vehicles and a commitment to $2M in Bitcoin and Bitcoin-related assets CEO Commentary: Todd Shapiro, CEO and Director of Red Light Holland, stated: "The entire team at Red Light Holland is proud of our 2025 audited year-end results as we continue to grow revenues and reduce our EBITDA loss. Our performance reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainable growth, financial prudence, and long-term strategy. While revenue growth was modest, this was a deliberate outcome of phasing out unprofitable sales channels following a comprehensive review." "We are playing the long game in the psychedelic sector that has been, frankly, underwhelming. While other companies in our space burn cash with limited runways or face insolvency, Red Light Holland has remained lean, deliberate, and focused." "Even as we faced macro challenges, from a dip in Dutch tourism to being debanked in Canada, our diversified business model and disciplined operations have proven resilient. With meaningful partnerships in place, wholesale success, re-orders of Happy Caps mushroom home grow kits from Costco Canada and our U.S. expansion through Albertsons, and CPG product innovation, we are positioning ourselves for global growth." "I'm especially proud of our momentum in psilocybin R&D; including our groundbreaking and precedent setting milestone as Red Light Holland's first global shipment, via USA Controlled Substances import permit, of naturally occurring Psilocybin from our facility in Europe was successfully delivered to the Company's Partner FDA-Compliant and DEA-Registered Irvine Labs in California. As well, our partnership with Arizona State University, and the appointment of world-renowned neuroscientist Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris as an advisor each demonstrate our serious commitment to mental health innovation, science, and future regulatory compliance." "Our focus remains squarely on improving the bottom line and strengthening the foundation for long-term profitability while awaiting hopeful regulatory changes and modern medicinal advancements in psychedelics. We are thankful to our shareholders and supporters who we believe are aligned in creating and supporting themes of deregulation, decentralization, and personal sovereignty in both financial and wellness domains." Strategic and Operational Achievements: Prudent Cash Management: EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA losses significantly reduced, validating management's bottom-line-focused strategy. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA losses significantly reduced, validating management's bottom-line-focused strategy. Costco Partnership: Happy Caps products reordered and distributed in over 60 Costco Canada locations. Happy Caps products reordered and distributed in over 60 Costco Canada locations. Albertsons Breakthrough: Entry into the U.S. retail market via Albertsons (under the Safeway banner) with Happy Caps Mushroom Home Grow Kits. Entry into the U.S. retail market via Albertsons (under the Safeway banner) with Happy Caps Mushroom Home Grow Kits. Happy Caps Innovation: Health Canada-approved Functional Mushroom Gummies (NPN #80137179) launched at www.HappyCaps.ca and now available on Amazon. Health Canada-approved Functional Mushroom Gummies (NPN #80137179) launched at www.HappyCaps.ca and now available on Amazon. Diversified Revenue Streams: Over $16 million in lifetime sales since going public in 2020, across Europe and North America. Over $16 million in lifetime sales since going public in 2020, across Europe and North America. Portfolio Strength: Nearly all operating subsidiaries were cash-positive in FY 2025, excluding non-cash and corporate costs. Nearly all operating subsidiaries were cash-positive in FY 2025, excluding non-cash and corporate costs. SR Wholesale Performance: Remained cash-positive in 2025, with steady sales growth driven by expanded product offerings and continued distribution of iMicrodose and Maka truffles across Dutch SmartShops. Remained cash-positive in 2025, with steady sales growth driven by expanded product offerings and continued distribution of iMicrodose and Maka truffles across Dutch SmartShops. Psilocybin Truffle Success: The Horst facility remains cash-positive, growing and supplying top brands like iMicrodose and Maka, via SR Wholesale, to Dutch SmartShops. Global Operations & R&D: Irvine Labs Partnership: In May 2025, received a U.S. Controlled Substances Import Permit, allowing shipment of psilocybin raw materials from our Horst farm to their FDA-approved/DEA-registered lab in California to begin development of extended shelf-life microdosing capsules. In May 2025, received a U.S. Controlled Substances Import Permit, allowing shipment of psilocybin raw materials from our Horst farm to their FDA-approved/DEA-registered lab in California to begin development of extended shelf-life microdosing capsules. ASU Partnership: Collaboration with Arizona State University on the Psychedelic Genome Project led by Dr. Candace Lewis to better understand the genetic factors influencing psilocybin response. Collaboration with Arizona State University on the led by Dr. Candace Lewis to better understand the genetic factors influencing psilocybin response. Scientific Advisory Appointment: Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, a globally recognized leader in psychedelic neuroscience, joined as Scientific Advisor to guide R&D, policy strategy, and potential regulatory pathways. Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, a globally recognized leader in psychedelic neuroscience, joined as Scientific Advisor to guide R&D, policy strategy, and potential regulatory pathways. CCrest & Allu Therapeutics: Ongoing collaborations to position psilocybin products for potential entry into Canada and the Australia/New Zealand medical markets. Innovation, Banking & Bitcoin Balance Sheet Strategy: Bitcoin Balance Sheet Strategy: Red Light Holland announced a Bitcoin strategy allocating up to $2 million in Bitcoin-related assets, led by crypto analyst Scott Melker. This initiative reflects our alignment with decentralized systems that echo psilocybin's ethos of empowerment, sovereignty, and innovation. After experiencing institutional debanking in Canada, the Company is exploring Bitcoin as a financial infrastructure alternative for operational flexibility. Red Light Holland announced a Bitcoin strategy allocating up to $2 million in Bitcoin-related assets, led by crypto analyst Scott Melker. This initiative reflects our alignment with decentralized systems that echo psilocybin's ethos of empowerment, sovereignty, and innovation. After experiencing institutional debanking in Canada, the Company is exploring Bitcoin as a financial infrastructure alternative for operational flexibility. Modern Banking Recovery: Re-established online banking channels for subsidiaries and maintained strong banking relations in the Netherlands. The AEM New Brunswick Farm has resumed banking with TD. Challenges & Turnarounds: AEM New Brunswick: Experienced temporary decline in shiitake production, though recent weeks have shown recovery with rising weekly sales. Experienced temporary decline in shiitake production, though recent weeks have shown recovery with rising weekly sales. AEM Ontario (Peterborough): Despite securing a permit for an 80,000 sq. ft. farm, RBC unexpectedly debanked the project over reputation concerns, halting construction financing. The Company is now talking to a group for the potential sale of the farm land, plans and permits to potentially consolidate capital instead. Despite securing a permit for an 80,000 sq. ft. farm, RBC unexpectedly debanked the project over reputation concerns, halting construction financing. The Company is now talking to a group for the potential sale of the farm land, plans and permits to potentially consolidate capital instead. Retail Realignment and E-Commerce Expansion: As part of its ongoing strategy to streamline Dutch operations, Red Light Holland completed the sale of its Oss retail location for 25,000. While the Utrecht store continues to face headwinds due to slower-than-expected tourism recovery in the Netherlands, the Company has taken a significant step forward by launching a dedicated e-commerce platform, www.MushRoomandMore.nl. After years of challenges securing a supportive payment processing partner, this new platform is now fully operational for DTC sales in the Netherlands. Looking Ahead: Red Light Holland remains optimistic about the future. With a diversified foundation including a recently announced Bitcoin balance sheet strategy, bold innovation in psilocybin research, proven business models, successful brand builds, constant revaluations with a continued focus on fiscal responsibility, and an all-around experienced and hardworking management team and world-class advisors, we believe the Company is well-positioned to lead the next wave of responsible growth in both the psychedelic and functional mushroom sectors. We invite shareholders, media, and stakeholders to join us for our live Q&A session on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM EST, where we'll discuss our results and future outlook in more detail. Q&A Access details: The online link for the live Q&A on Wednesday, July 30th, 2025 at 11:00 AM (EST) is: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82801206951?pwd=N7CBd5PxZOMnonSqPdWpVn7FunnWob.1 Meeting ID: 828 0120 6951 Passcode: RLH2025 About Red Light Holland: Red Light Holland is an Ontario-based corporation engaged in the production, growth, and sale of functional mushrooms and mushroom home grow kits in North America and Europe, and a premium brand of psilocybin truffles to the legal recreational market within the Netherlands, in compliance with all applicable laws. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current conditions but instead represent only the Company's beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the Company's control. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company or its respective subsidiaries to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained in this news release. Examples of such information include statements with respect to: the Company's unwavering commitment to sustainable growth, financial prudence, and long-term strategy; the Company growing globally; the Company's commitment to mental health innovation, science, and future regulatory compliance; the Company's focus on improving the bottom line and strengthening the foundation for long-term profitability while awaiting hopeful regulatory changes and modern medicinal advancements in psychedelics; the Company creating and supporting themes of deregulation, decentralization, and personal sovereignty in both financial and wellness domains; the Company entering into the Australia / New Zealand medical markets; the Company's future investment in cryptocurrencies; rising sales at AEM New Brunswick; the Company selling AEM Ontario and consolidating its capital; and the Company leading the next wave of responsible growth in both the psychedelic and functional mushroom sectors. Forward-Looking information in this news release are based on certain assumptions and expected future events, namely: continued approval of the Company's activities by the relevant governmental and/or regulatory authorities; the Company will maintain its prudent cash management; the Company will explore potential mergers and acquisitions; the Company will advance its research and development efforts; the Company will maintain its strategic commitment to growth while maintaining strong cash management; the Company will continue to focus on expanding brand recognition and overall retail distribution channels; the Company will continue to focus on financial stability and long-term profitability; the Company will continue to focus on advocacy for the legalization of, and adult access to, psilocybin; the Company will continue its unwavering commitment to sustainable growth, financial prudence, and long-term strategy; the Company will continue to grow globally; the Company will continue its commitment to mental health innovation, science, and future regulatory compliance; the Company will continue to focus on improving the bottom line and strengthen its foundation for long-term profitability; there will be positive regulatory changes and modern medicinal advancements in psychedelics; the Company will create and support themes of deregulation, decentralization, and personal sovereignty in both financial and wellness domains; the Company will enter into the Australia / New Zealand medical markets; the Company will invest in cryptocurrencies; there will be rising sales at AEM New Brunswick; the Company will sell AEM Ontario and consolidate its capital; and the Company will lead the next wave of responsible growth in both the psychedelic and functional mushroom sectors. Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, namely: the Company's inability to obtain continued approval of the Company's activities by the relevant governmental and/or regulatory authorities; the Company's inability to continue advocating for the legalization of, and adult access to, psilocybin; the Company's inability to increase its brand recognition and/or overall retail distribution channels; the Company's inability to maintain its prudent cash use; the Company inability to explore potential mergers and acquisitions; the Company's inability to maintain its strategic commitment to growth while maintaining strong cash management; the Company will be unable to advance its research and development efforts; the Company will be unable to focus on financial stability and/or long-term profitability; the Company will be unable to focus on advocacy for the legalization of, and/or adult access to, psilocybin; the Company's inability to continue its unwavering commitment to sustainable growth, financial prudence, and/or long-term strategy; the Company's inability to grow globally; the Company's inability to continue its commitment to mental health innovation, science, and/or future regulatory compliance; the Company inability to focus on improving the bottom line and/or strengthen its foundation for long-term profitability; there will be negative regulatory changes and/or no modern medicinal advancements in psychedelics; the Company will be unable to create and/or support themes of deregulation, decentralization, and/or personal sovereignty in both financial and/or wellness domains; the Company will be unable to enter into the Australia / New Zealand medical markets; the Company will not invest in cryptocurrencies; there will be decreasing or stagnant sales at AEM New Brunswick; the Company will be unable to sell AEM Ontario and/or consolidate its capital; and the Company will be unable to lead the next wave of responsible growth in either the psychedelic and/or functional mushroom sectors. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260467 SOURCE: Red Light Holland Corp. MUNICH, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SaaS provider F24 is presenting FACT24 TRM+, a new solution for international risk monitoring combined with smart alerting. Developed in cooperation with technology partner A3M Global Monitoring GmbH, the solution merges global security monitoring with automated alerting. FACT24 TRM+ targets both internationally operating companies with globally distributed employees and organisations with multiple sites within a country or region. In addition to protecting employees, it also helps safeguard critical business assets such as data centers, production sites, or logistics hubs. Global threats, local responsibility Companies are facing an increasing variety of dynamic risks - from natural disasters and political unrest to cyberattacks. At the same time, employees work more frequently in mobile, remote, or travel-based settings. This makes protecting people more complex and business-critical. FACT24 TRM+ addresses this challenge with an integrated approach combining early risk monitoring and reliable communication. "We developed this solution based on specific customer requirements, and we are pleased that it is already in use by initial companies. In a world of increasing crisis complexity and rapidly changing security situations, organisations need to act quickly," explains Dr. Stefanie Hauer, Senior Vice President Commercial at F24. "By combining international risk monitoring with smart alerting, our solution not only enables a rapid, targeted response but also supports proactive crisis management." Read the full release here: f24.com/en/press-release-fact24-trm/ Press Contact: F24 AG Patrick Eller Head of Corporate Marketing & PR presse@f24.com www.f24.com About F24 F24 is Europe's leading Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) provider for resilience. More than 5,500 customers worldwide rely on F24's digital solutions, which support companies and organisations through all areas of resilience. Solutions cover business messaging and service notification, emergency and mass notification, incident and crisis management, as well as governance, risk and compliance. F24 supports customers in virtually every sector ranging from energy, healthcare, industry, finance, IT, tourism and aviation to a wide variety of public organisations. Many years of international experience have made F24 experts in improving resilience with digital solutions. - Picture is available at AP - View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/f24-introduces-new-solution-for-international-risk-monitoring-and-smart-alerting-302516029.html JAKARTA, July 29, 2025 - (ACN Newswire) - Wintermar's Operating Profit jumped 55.8%YOY to US$8.9million for 1H2025, derived from 17% growth in Owned Vessel Revenue in 1H2025 and higher gross margins from better fleet mix and higher charter rates.Owned Vessel revenues were higher in 1H2025 compared to 1H2024 despite lower utilization due to better yielding vessels in operation in 1H2025.Owned Vessel DivisionAlthough the number of vessels has not changed, fleet composition has improved with 2 additional PSVs in operation in 1H2025 as well as 3 newly delivered HLBs which 2 units commenced work in April 2025 and 1 unit in July 2025. With 4 additional units of higher yielding vessels in operation compared to last year, gross margins from the Owned Vessels Division expanded from 29.6% in 1H2024 to 39.1% in 1H2025. This resulted in a 54.4%YOY jump in Gross Profit growth for the Owned Vessel Division to US$12.4million, despite a fall in utilization from 63.7% in FY2024 to 57.9% in 1H2025.Despite a slower first half of the year which caused a dip in utilization, the Company reaped the benefit of improving average charter rates from a higher number of operational vessels at the higher value segment of the fleet. Owned Vessel Expenses increased by 22%QOQ from 1Q2025 to 2Q2025 due to an increase of fleet as well as Operational costs.Chartering Division and Other ServicesChartering revenues experienced a sharp decline, as several vessels ended a contract which has not been renewed. Gross Profit from Chartering fell from US$0.7million in 1H2024 to US$0.2million in 1H2025.Gross Profit from Other Services fell to US$1.4million (-11.5%YOY) in1H2025 in line with the lower vessel utilization for the period compared to last year.Direct Expenses and Gross ProfitTotal Owned Vessel Direct Expenses rose only slightly by 1.3%YOY to US$19.4million for 1H2025. The largest increase came from Fuel Bunker costs which rose to US$1.4million (+46.1%YOY) due to the mobilization of vessels to overseas contracts. All other costs were lower except for Fleet Maintenance which rose 2.2%YOY to US$4.1million in 1H2025.On a quarterly basis, there were higher operational and maintenance costs in 2Q2025 compared to 1Q2025 due to the preparation and mobilization of a mid-tier vessel for a long-term contract in the Middle East.Indirect Expenses and Operating ProfitTotal Indirect Expense rose by 11.0%YOY to US$5.1million in 1H2025. The largest increase came from salary and employee benefits which rose by 10.0%YOY and 16.9%YOY to US$3.8million and US$0.2million respectively. With the improvement in business conditions and a wider geographic spread of operations, there was an increase in the number of employees in 2025 compared to last year. Telecommunications and marketing costs also rose with more international projects and higher costs of bid bond fees in the tender process.Due to good cost control, Operating Profit for 1H2025 jumped by 55.8% to US$8.9million from US$5.7million in the previous year.Other Income, Expenses and Net Attributable ProfitAs the Company refinanced the newly acquired vessels from the past year, interest expenses rose to US$1million for 1H2025, while interest income also doubled to US$0.3million due to strong operational cash flow.There was a turnaround in Equity in net earnings of Associates from a loss of US$0.4million in 1Q2025 to a profit of US$0.7million in 2Q2025. This resulted in a gain of US$0.6million from Investment in Associates for 1H2025, slightly lower than US$0.8million in 1H2024.During 2Q2025, management successfully sold a smaller mid-tier vessel for a profit, resulting in a net gain on sale of fixed asset of US$1.7million. This is in line with the continued fleet renewal program where smaller mid-tier vessels which are lower yielding will continue to be sold off to concentrate the fleet on larger and higher yielding vessels. However, this cannot compare with the significant one-off gain of US$17.4million recorded in 1H2024 primarily from the sale of a platform supply vessel. Therefore, total Other Income was US$1.7million for 1H2025 as compared to US$17.4million in 1H2024 which included the one-off vessel sale.Net income before tax for 1H2025 totalled US$10.7million, compared to US$23.2million in 1H2024. This 53.8% decline does not reflect the underlying improvement in the core business as 1H2024 profit included the sizable one-off gain from the vessel sale.Non-Controlling Interest fell from US$6.4 million in 1H2024 which included some profit from the sale of vessel to US$2.7 million in 1H2025. The group's EBITDA jumped by 25.8%YOY for 1H2025, reaching US$16.0 million compared to US$12.7million in 1H2024.Stripping out the impact of vessel sales, the underlying profit for 1H2025 was US$ 5.4million compared to US$4.9million in 1H2024 representing a growth of 10.1%YOY.Industry OutlookThere are growing signs of a pivot from renewable energy back to hydrocarbons as the world faces a growing need for energy while renewable sources of fuel are still insufficient and less economical. The continuing uncertainty in the Middle East and ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza have put pressure on governments around the world to seek energy security. In addition, the increasing need for energy for the "Green Transition" and data centres has led to a resurgence of demand for oil and gas. These factors have led to projections for global investment in oil and gas being maintained above US$610 billion in the coming years, with a steadily growing share invested into offshore fields.In Indonesia, the government has continued to push for self-sufficiency in various sectors, with energy being one of the sectors benefitting from this plan. There are at present four sizeable strategic national projects in Indonesian offshore fields which are currently in the early stage of exploration and where production is expected from 2026-2030. These projects will sustain demand for OSVs in Indonesia in the coming years.Business ProspectsThe Company's focus on developing a strong presence in the dynamic positioning segment is bringing in benefits of a higher blended fleet charter rate which has led to higher gross margins. The 3 units of newly built HLB which commenced work in April to July 2025 will underpin earnings in 2H2025, and there is a third reactivated PSV expected to be operational at the end of 3Q2025. The investment cycle for oil and gas is still expected to ramp up for the next few years, providing better fleet utilization which will lead to profit upside.The stronger cash flow arising from a low debt position has enabled the Company to continue investing into higher value vessels while selling lower yielding vessels. The additional vessels coming into operation in 2025 will provide upside for 2026 earnings.Total contracts on hand as at end June 2025 has risen to US$70.9 million.About Wintermar Offshore Marine GroupWintermar Offshore Marine Group (WINS.JK), developed over nearly 50 years with a track record of quality that is both a source of pride and responsibility that we are dedicated to upholding, and sails a fleet of more than 48 Offshore Support Vessels ready for long term as well as spot charters. All vessels are operated by experienced Indonesian crew, tracked by satellite systems and monitored in real-time by shore-based Vessel Teams.Wintermar is the first shipping company in Indonesia to be certified with an Integrated Management System by Lloyd's Register Quality Assurance, and is currently certified with ISO 9001:2015 (Quality), ISO14001:2015 (Environment) and OHSAS 18001:2007 (Occupational Health and Safety). For more information, please visit www.wintermar.com.For further information, please contact:Ms. Pek Swan Layanto, CFAInvestor RelationsPT Wintermar Offshore Marine TbkTel (62-21) 530 5201 Ext 401Email: investor_relations@wintermar.comSource: PT Wintermar Offshore Marine TbkCopyright 2025 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved. Expanded License Agreement Brings Ovation's Science-Based Topicals to Largest Medical Cannabis Market in the USA VANCOUVER, BC AND LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Ovation Science Inc. (CSE:OVAT)(OTC:OVATF) ("Ovation" or the "Company"), today announced an expanded license agreement with Planet 13 Holdings, Inc. (CSE:PLTH)(OTCQX:PLNH) ("Planet 13") to bring its patented Invisicare topical and transdermal cannabis products to the Florida market. The agreement will make Ovation's science-backed topical products available across Planet 13's extensive network of 33 Florida dispensary locations, building on the companies' on-going successful collaboration with Planet 13 in Nevada where Ovation's topicals have achieved top sales rankings statewide. Florida, a medical cannabis market with almost one million registered patients, is projected to exceed $2.5 billion in cannabis sales in 2025. According to Headset.io, Florida is the largest medical cannabis market in the US and has the highest sales of topicals in the country. Florida's unique regulations require dispensaries to exclusively sell their own manufactured products, eliminating traditional wholesale distribution channels. This makes Planet 13's significant and expanding retail footprint of 33 dispensaries particularly valuable for market entry. The broad appeal of Ovation's topical products satisfies the widespread consumer demand for solutions to assist with everything from everyday aches, stress relief, evening relaxation and bedtime wind-down routines to workout recovery. "Planet 13's comprehensive Florida presence creates an ideal platform for our topical products," said Terry Howlett, Ovation's President. "Their success with our products in Nevada demonstrates the market demand for effective, science-based solutions. Our products will be sold exclusively under Planet 13's brand across all Florida locations, providing immediate market access for Ovation's proprietary formulations. We know customers in Florida will be excited to see proven, effective, science-based topicals that work for multiple conditions." He added, "Ovation will earn royalty income from Planet 13's sales now in both Nevada and Florida under this expanded license agreement, positively impacting our financial results and creating value for our shareholders." "Our experience with Ovation's topicals in Nevada has been excellent and we are excited to expand into Florida with these products. We will be launching our branded topical line shortly, expanding our brand presence and satisfying an unmet need for exceptional topicals in Florida," said Lee Fraser, Chief Administrative Officer of Planet 13. "This partnership with Ovation marks an important revenue generating opportunity, optimizes our Florida production facility, and enhances our gross margins." Proven Technology Platform Ovation's competitive advantage centers on its patented Invisicare skin delivery system, developed through over two decades of pharmaceutical research. Laboratory testing demonstrated dramatically superior bioavailability compared to leading competitors - with Ovation's formulations achieving 82% cannabinoid penetration versus less than 2% for competing transdermal products tested. This proves substantially more CBD, THC and other cannabinoids are effectively delivered to and through the skin using Ovation's Invisicare technology, ensuring consumers receive maximum therapeutic benefit. Growth Trajectory The Florida launch with Planet 13 represents Ovation's third active market, joining existing states: Nevada (Planet 13) and Pennsylvania (PA Options for Wellness). Additional 2025 expansions are planned with licensees in Missouri and Canada, and other potential states, positioning the Company for accelerated revenue growth across multiple regulated jurisdictions. Ovation continues to seek growth opportunities in other legal markets both in the USA and internationally. Statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. About Planet 13 Planet 13 is a vertically integrated cannabis company, with award-winning cultivation, production and dispensary operations across its locations in California, Nevada, Illinois, and Florida. Home to the nation's largest dispensary, located just off The Strip in Las Vegas, Planet 13 continues to expand its footprint with the recent debut of its first consumption lounge in Las Vegas, DAZED!, the opening of its first Illinois dispensary in Waukegan, bringing cannabis experiences to the Chicago metro area. Planet 13 operates dispensaries across Florida, a key market in its expansive footprint. Planet 13's mission is to build a recognizable global brand known for world-class dispensary operations and innovative cannabis products. Licensed cannabis activity is legal in the states Planet 13 operates in but remains illegal under U.S. federal law. Planet 13's shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) under the symbol PLTH and are quoted on the OTCQX under the symbol PLNH. To learn more, visit Planet13.com. About Ovation Science Inc. Ovation Science Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary; Ovation Science USA Inc., is a research and development company that develops topical and transdermal CBD/THC and other cannabinoid products which are out-licensed and also distributed under Ovation's own brands; ARLO CBD Beauty and InVibe MD ("wellness" line); all powered by its patented Invisicare skin delivery technology. Invisicare enhances the delivery of ingredients to and through the skin and is protected by patents and proprietary formulations which cannot be duplicated. With over 20 years of pharmaceutical drug delivery experience, Ovation's management and science team have created a unique pipeline of proprietary medical / wellness topical and transdermal products along with a line of anti-aging / beauty formulas. Ovation earns revenues from royalties on licensees' sales and the sale of Invisicare, along with revenue from its own product sales. Ovation has offices in Vancouver, Canada and Las Vegas, USA. Stock symbols: CSE:OVAT and OTC:OVATF Websites: CORPORATE: www.ovationscience.com WELLNESS: www.invibemd.com BEAUTY: www.arlocbdbeauty.com Forward-Looking Statements Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. In particular there is no assurance of sales and acceptance of its products in any of the state or country cited, continued sales in dispensaries or in retail markets or expansion to other states or countries. There are no guarantees of future performance or changes to regulations. Ovation Science Inc. cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual results may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond Ovation Science Inc.'s control. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information. Ovation disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information to reflect future results, events or circumstances, except as required by law. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange, OTC Markets nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. CORPORATE and LICENSING INQUIRIES: Doreen McMorran: info@ovationscience.com PH: 604-982-5700 SOURCE: Ovation Science Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/ovation-science-expands-with-planet-13-into-florida-1053826 Responsiveness to market demands combined with robust technological advancements - set to be demonstrated live at Black Hat USA - strengthens Zero Networks' market leadership Zero Networks, a leading provider of zero trust security solutions, was awarded a Platinum rating in the June 2025 "EMA PRISM Report Microsegmentation." Platinum is the highest possible ranking in the PRISM report and is based on a detailed evaluation of the following criteria: product and functionality, integrations and operability, and strength and maturity. The report summarizes Zero's key differentiators as simplicity and efficiency, real-time network awareness, and scalability. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729196096/en/ Zero Networks is bringing radically simple microsegmentation, their solution featured in a recent EMA PRISM Report, to Black Hat USA 2025. Specifically, EMA VP of Research, Christopher Steffen, stated: "The platform shows a commitment to ongoing development, focusing on scalable solutions that address the complexities of modern network environments. With strong product backing and a vision that aligns with the growing need for stringent network security measures, Zero Networks is establishing itself as a mature player in the market." Unlike traditional perimeter-based security, which focuses on keeping threats out, microsegmentation assumes breaches can and will occur, and aims to contain them swiftly within a defined segment, preventing widespread damage. Zero's unique capabilities include automated policy creation and provisioning, agentless architecture, and dynamic and adaptive management. This means faster time to value, no deployment friction, and continuous protection that evolves with your environment. Download EMA's full Solution Profile of Zero Networks here. "Zero Networks is proud to be recognized with a Platinum rating in the EMA PRISM Report for Microsegmentation," said Benny Lakunishok, CEO of Zero Networks. "While competitors require large teams and constant attention to deliver only partial protection, Zero Networks is leading the industry with a solution that is simple to deploy, enforce, and manage. This recognition by EMA reflects our team's commitment to eliminating complexity and operational burden for security teams-and empowering organizations of any size to finally harness the full potential of microsegmentation." Zero Networks is Live at Black Hat USA, Booth #2251 Zero Networks is bringing radically simple microsegmentation to Black Hat USA 2025 (Aug. 5-7, 2025) with hands-on demos, expert-led sessions, and a calming booth experience that proves security doesn't have to be chaotic. Here are all the ways to engage with Zero Networks on site at Black Hat: Visit the team at Booth #2251 to see their solutions in action, hear directly from Zero customers, and learn about their powerful technology partnerships. For example: Zero Networks' Visibility Map (Wednesday, Aug. 6 at 5:00-5:15 pm) Find out how Zero Networks is rewriting the microsegmentation playbook, making visualization a helpful tool for validation and investigation-not a prerequisite for implementation. This is a live demonstration of our Visibility Map, an intuitive tool designed to streamline how you explore network assets, activities, and segmentation policies. Expanding Microsegmentation to Kubernetes (Thursday, Aug. 7 at 12:00-12:15 pm) - Get a firsthand look at how Zero Networks is bringing effortless microsegmentation to Kubernetes environments. Learn how our solution discovers in-cluster resources, monitors internal and external activity, and enforces segmentation across workloads, applications, and other K8s entities. Better Together: Zero Networks Palo Alto Networks (Thursday, Aug. 7 at 2:00-2:15pm) - Explore how Zero Networks and Palo Alto Networks join forces to deliver a powerful, integrated defense that blocks lateral movement and ransomware while simplifying your security stack. Presented by Jasmine Punia, Senior Product Manager at Palo Alto Networks. Catch Zero Networks on the Black Hat stage on Wednesday, Aug. 6, at 2:40pm at Business Hall Theater E CTO Amir Frankel and VP Customers Nicholas DiCola will present: The Microsegmentation Project You Can Actually Complete: Shifting Security's Burden Back to Attackers Join Zero for a happy hour at Sbar, Mandalay Bay on Tuesday, Aug. 5 (RSVP), or escape the chaos of the tradeshow floor by relaxing and recharging in their booth's "Zen Zone" silent disco. To schedule a meeting or view the daily booth presentation schedule, visit: zeronetworks.com/landing/zero-at-black-hat. If you won't be at Black Hat, take a self-guided product tour via Zero's virtual, hands-on demo environment to experience radically simple implementation and set-and-forget management. About Zero Networks Zero Networks is revolutionizing network security with its effortless microsegmentation solution that stops ransomware and implements in days, not years. By automating asset tagging and policy creation, Zero Networks saves enterprises an average of 86% on total cost of ownership compared to legacy microsegmentation solutions that rely on time-intensive manual processes. Combined with advanced Identity Segmentation and Zero Trust Network Access solutions, and fortified by network-layer MFA, Zero Networks' platform accelerates zero trust initiatives at companies of any size. This comprehensive approach enables organizations to stop lateral movement attacks, exceed compliance requirements, achieve top-tier audit scores, and pass every penetration test. For more information, visit zeronetworks.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729196096/en/ Contacts: Media Contact Taylor Hadley LaunchTech Communications taylor@golaunchtech.com 978-877-2113 TORONTO, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mandalay Resources Corporation ("Mandalay" or the "Company") (TSX: MND, OTCQB: MNDJF) reports exploration results from the Brunswick South extension, part of the operating Costerfield gold-antimony mine in Australia. Highlights: Discovery sits just 300 m from active access drive along the Brunswick line. All three drillholes hit high-grade veining: 76.6 g/t Au over 0.49 m (ETW 0.44 m) in BD387 ; 265.0 g/t Au and 0.7% Sb over 0.29 m (ETW 0.17 m) in BD388; and 52.3 g/t Au over 1.69 m (ETW 1.58 m) in BD391 Intercepted veining over 175 m strike length and 50 m down dip. Extension drilling has commenced. Note: Further intercept details including significant intercepts within composite intervals can be found in the Appendix to this document. Where antimony grades are not stated they are below detection. ETW refers to the Estimated True Width of the intercept. Frazer Bourchier, President and CEO of Mandalay, commented: "We are extremely excited about the new discovery at Brunswick South following on the heels of our success at True Blue. Brunswick South is within 300 metres of existing underground infrastructure, providing potential near term mine life extension of Costerfield. The Company will ramp up drilling from both surface and underground to advance this discovery rapidly. When added to the ongoing drilling at the True Blue discovery, Costerfield is delivering value to shareholders through the drill bit. Costerfield is expected to be a strong cash-flow generator for the combined Alkane-Mandalay following the anticipated closing of the merger of the two companies on August 5, 2025." Chris Davis, VP of Exploration and Operational Geology, commented: "The Brunswick deposit, mined in the 1990s and again in 2018, is hosted within a vertical fault that has been traced along a 2km strike length. Two domains of gold and antimony endowment have been identified so far along the fault. Our 2025 program targeted the depth extension of the southern domain, and extraordinarily, all three drillholes intersected high-grade gold across a 175-metre strike and 30-metre vertical extent. "Given the impressive results and ease of access from existing infrastructure, this discovery is now being prioritized for further drilling in parallel with True Blue. As part of this work, we will also investigate constructing an underground drill platform that could accelerate our drilling program and definition of the deposit. With only high-grade results at this level, the veining remains largely open along strike and at depth with historic drilling above, we have launched an extension program to further evaluate the full potential of this emerging discovery." Brunswick South Depth Discovery The Brunswick deposit is situated between the Cuffley and Youle deposits and has direct access and portal to the Brunswick Processing facility that concentrates all ore produced at Costerfield. The deposit was mined by means of an open pit in the mid-1990s and underground mining commenced from 2018 under Mandalay. Current mining activity at Brunswick is primarily focused on a high-grade zone with limited vertical extent known as the K-R Panel, just below the historically mined block, separated by a flat-lying fault that has offset the lode laterally by several meters. Figure 1. Oblique view (looking north-east) of the Costerfield gold-antimony field, showing Mandalay underground development, current resource outlines of the Brunswick deposits, and the central position of the three drill intercepts reported in this announcement. The Brunswick vein is remarkably linear in the context of the field. Mineralization has been drill tested over a length of 2000m near surface with negligible offsets. The vein (where mined) occupies the hinge of an open north-south striking anticline, and typically contains a greater proportion of stibnite to quartz than most other Costerfield veins. The vein is intersected, and sometimes offset laterally by flat-lying faults that follow, or are at a low angle to, the flat or gently west-dipping bedding of the host Costerfield siltstone. As these faults pass over the axis of the Brunswick anticline, they tend to bifurcate and flatten to horizontal, creating sliced stacks with progressive downward western offest - occasionally creating bonanza-grade ore shoots and localized blowouts. Additionally, steep north-east trending shears create grade pods where found intersecting the vein, without causing significant lode offset. At Brunswick South, near-surface historical drilling highlights a second panel of enrichment, separated from the Brunswick Main pannel by a grade-controlling north-east shear set. Reinterpretation of the previously drilled deepest low-grade intercepts suggested that interference from flat-lying faulting was highly likely given the ambiguous nature of the broken material recovered. Due to the assessment a two-hole drill testing program was designed to investigate the untested continuation below. Figure 2. Longitudinal section of the Brunswick South vein showing the position of the new intercepts in relation to existing drilling data. The position of the Cuffley to Brunswick access is shown, with annotation showing its distance east of the target vein, decreasing to the north. The southern end of the mined Brunswick lode can be seen at the far right of the section. Annotations describe the intercepts grade over an estimated true width. BD387 intersected the Brunswick vein approximately 270m south of the limit of existing development on the Brunswick Main lode. The vein intersected graded 76.6 g/t gold over 0.49m downhole, consisting of healed quartz breccia containing visible gold. BD388 passed through the vein 175m south of BD387, and found higher grade mineralization at 265 g/t gold and 0.7% antimony over 0.29m downhole. Clusters of fine visible gold are evenly spread throughout the quartz in this intercept, and stibnite is present as a late-stage vein infill phase. A third hole (BD391) was directed between and approximately 30m down-dip of the two prior intercepts and also intercepted high-grade gold mineralization, 52.3g/t gold over 1.69m downhole. Figure 3. Tray photographs of the three new high-grade intercepts with individual grades annotated. An inset for BD388 shows a close-up of the style of mineralization encountered, predominantly free gold in quartz. BD391 is considerably more faulted than the others, interpreted to be due to proximity of a bedding-parallel fault as is commonplace in Costerfield ore veins. The new intercepts are situated within the hinge of an open syncline; a slightly different structural setting to both the Brunswick Main lode (which occupies an anticlinal hinge) and the already defined mineralized panel above the newly targeted zone which does not appear to be associated with a well defined fold hinge (figure 4). These encouraging intercepts are of immediate operational importance to the Costerfield mine, situated just 320m west of the Brunswick access drive. A high-grade resource in this location will be quick and cost-effective to access. Significant prospectivity surrounds these exciting new intercepts, not only along the so-far untested strike and down dip extents but also upwards into the existing Brunswick South resource, where drilling is relatively sparse and targeted infill may build considerable upside in steeply plunging high-grade pods as seen in the Brunswick Main deposit. Figure 4. Cross section at 5350N (at BD391) through the Brunswick South system, with the two other intercepts of the program shown diagrammatically. The stratigraphy presented up-dip is repeated over several early thrust faults, which are crosscut by later subvertical faults and the Brunswick vein itself. Annotations describe the intercepts grade over an estimated true width. Next Steps Followup drilling has commenced and will investigate both strike and down-dip extension to the new high-grade area, and also further define the up-dip link with the near-surface veining. This program will be undertaken from underground by one of the three drill rigs currently focused on near mine expansion, and by an additional surface rig due to arrive in August 2025. Drilling and Assaying All diamond drill core was logged and sampled by Costerfield geologists or contracted geologists with significant industry experience who worked under Costerfield geologist's oversight. All samples were sent to On Site Laboratory Services (OSLS) in Bendigo, Victoria, Australia, for sample preparation and analysis by fire assay for gold, and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) for antimony. Site geological and metallurgical personnel have implemented a QA/QC procedure that includes systematic submission of standard reference materials and blanks within batches of drill and face samples submitted for assay. Costerfield specific reference materials produced from Costerfield ore have been prepared and certified by OREAS, a specialist laboratory quality control consultancy. See Technical Report entitled "Costerfield Operation, Victoria, Australia NI 43-101 Report" dated March 30, 2025, available on SEDAR ( www.sedar.com ) for a complete description of drilling, sampling, and assaying procedures. Qualified Person: Chris Davis, Vice President of Operational Geology and Exploration at Mandalay Resources, is a Chartered Professional of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (MAusIMM CP(Geo)), as well as a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists (MAIG) and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. He has reviewed and approved the technical and scientific information provided in this release. For Further Information Frazer Bourchier Director, President and Chief Executive Officer Edison Nguyen Director, Business Valuations and Investor Relations Contact: 647.258.9722 About Mandalay Resources Corporation Mandalay Resources is a Canadian-based natural resource company with producing assets in Australia (Costerfield gold-antimony mine) and Sweden (Bjorkdal gold mine). The Company is focused on growing its production and reducing costs to generate cashflow. Mandalay is committed to operating safely and in an environmentally responsible manner, while developing a high level of community and employee engagement. Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securitieslaws,includingstatementsregardingtheexplorationanddevelopmentpotentialof the Brunswick South discovery.Readersarecautionednotto place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements depending on, among other things,changesincommoditypricesandgeneralmarketandeconomicconditions.Thefactors identifiedabovearenotintendedtorepresentacompletelistofthefactorsthatcouldaffect Mandalay.Adescriptionofadditionalrisksthatcouldresultinactualresultsanddevelopments differingfromthosecontemplatedbyforward-lookingstatementsinthisnewsreleasecanbe foundundertheheading"RiskFactors"inMandalay'sannualinformationformdatedMarch 30, 2025, a copy of which is available under Mandalay's profile at www.sedarplus.com. In addition, there can be no assurance that any inferred resources that are discovered as a result of additionaldrillingwilleverbeupgradedtoprovenorprobablereserves.AlthoughMandalayhas attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differmateriallyfromthosedescribedinforward-lookingstatements,theremaybeotherfactors thatcauseactions,eventsorresultsnottobeasanticipated,estimatedorintended.Therecan be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results andfutureeventscoulddiffermateriallyfromthoseanticipatedinsuchstatements.Accordingly, readersshouldnotplaceunduerelianceonforward-lookingstatements. Appendix Table 1. Significant Intercepts from drilling program. DRILL HOLE ID FROM (M) TO (M) INTERVAL (M) ESTIMATED TRUE WIDTH (M) AU GRADE (G/T) SB GRADE (%) AUEQ (G/T) BD391 352.75 354.44 1.69 1.58 52.3 0.0 52.3 BD388 415.07 415.36 0.29 0.17 265.0 0.7 266.6 BD387 291.98 292.47 0.49 0.44 76.6 0.0 76.6 MB045 244.45 245.20 0.75 0.46 0.4 0.1 0.6 MB043 197.35 197.55 0.20 0.12 0.5 0.2 1.1 MB013 118.15 119.00 0.85 0.48 0.7 0.0 0.7 BD316W1 125.30 126.03 0.73 0.67 1.8 0.2 2.3 BD315 202.40 202.54 0.14 0.09 25.3 5.7 38.8 BD291 155.53 156.47 0.94 0.67 5.3 1.2 8.1 BD289 198.93 200.30 1.37 0.99 10.5 2.8 17.1 BD288 264.00 264.60 0.60 0.31 0.0 0.0 0.0 BD287 202.58 203.20 0.62 0.34 0.2 0.0 0.2 BD286W1 234.44 234.60 0.16 0.10 1.5 0.0 1.6 BD277 219.05 220.22 1.17 0.76 4.4 0.1 4.6 BD276 120.51 122.80 2.29 1.00 3.3 0.0 3.4 BD275 245.80 246.10 0.30 0.23 10.6 7.2 27.5 BD274W1 155.73 156.03 0.47 0.35 13.2 7.6 31.3 BD272 175.20 175.40 0.93 0.63 10.7 5.8 24.3 BD271 150.18 151.80 1.62 0.99 7.9 1.0 10.2 BD270 78.55 78.80 0.25 0.18 0.1 0.0 0.1 BD070 44.00 45.00 1.00 0.53 12.6 0.7 14.2 BD069 33.00 34.00 1.00 0.53 7.3 0.0 7.4 BD067 38.00 39.00 1.00 0.47 8.3 0.3 8.9 BD066 46.00 47.00 1.00 0.47 9.8 0.0 9.8 BD065 45.00 46.00 1.00 0.47 3.4 2.5 9.1 BD064 35.00 36.00 1.00 0.47 1.2 0.0 1.2 BD052 30.55 31.30 0.75 0.54 5.0 2.1 10.0 BD040 20.00 21.00 1.00 0.40 3.5 1.3 6.5 BD037 14.00 15.00 1.00 0.68 3.1 0.8 5.0 BD036 15.00 16.00 1.00 0.47 2.0 0.5 3.0 BD035A 5.00 6.00 1.00 0.68 7.6 0.4 8.6 BD035 5.00 6.00 1.00 0.68 5.2 0.0 5.2 BD034 24.00 25.00 1.00 0.47 2.1 0.0 2.2 BD033 9.00 10.00 1.00 0.68 3.2 0.0 3.2 BD032 20.00 21.00 1.00 0.47 1.1 0.5 2.3 BD031 11.00 12.00 1.00 0.68 2.4 1.1 5.0 BD030 23.00 24.00 1.00 0.47 5.8 0.9 8.0 BD028 21.00 22.00 1.00 0.47 1.3 0.4 2.3 BD027 14.00 15.00 1.00 0.68 1.6 0.0 1.6 BD025 22.00 23.00 1.00 0.68 4.4 0.6 5.9 Notes 1. The AuEq (gold equivalent) grade is calculated using the following formula: (Sb price per 10kg Sb processing recovery) AuEq g per t = Au g per t + Sb% x (Au price per g Au processing recovery) Prices and recoveries used: Au $/oz = 2,500; Sb $/t = 19,000; Au Recovery = 91% and; Sb Recovery = 92% 2. LLD signifies an undetectable amount of antimony. Detection limit for the analysis used is 0.01% Table 4. Drill Hole Collar Details DRILL PROGRAM DRILL HOLE ID NORTHING EASTING ELEVATION DEPTH DIP AZIMUTH DATE COMPLETE 2025 Depth Testing BD391 5915138 303455 -59 410 -15 235 23-May-25 2025 Depth Testing BD388 5915137 303455 -59 570 -8 224 2-May-25 2025 Depth Testing BD387 5915138 303454 -59 345 -12 230 20-Apr-25 Previously Reported BD316W1 5914679 303375 186 133 -21 253 6-Mar-18 Previously Reported BD315 5914679 303378 182 231 -40 234 23-Feb-18 Previously Reported BD291 5914707 303367 183 201 -43 267 5-Jun-17 Previously Reported BD287 5915043 303342 186 282 -46 255 29-May-17 Previously Reported BD288 5914998 303357 187 405 -54 236 18-May-17 Previously Reported BD289 5914835 303387 187 251 -42 253 9-May-17 Previously Reported BD286W1 5914997 303357 185 245 -46 235 5-May-17 Previously Reported BD275 5914841 303041 190 327 -40 89 21-Apr-17 Previously Reported BD277 5914997 303357 187 312 -47 253 6-Apr-17 Previously Reported BD276 5914949 303317 189 170 -36 245 27-Mar-17 Previously Reported BD274W1 5914828 303358 186 166 -41 250 16-Mar-17 Previously Reported BD272 5914828 303358 186 224 -42 281 2-Mar-17 Previously Reported BD271 5914949 303318 189 249 -48 245 22-Feb-17 Previously Reported BD270 5915042 303268 187 121 -35 272 20-Feb-17 Previously Reported MB045 5914829 303385 189 338 -53 265 28-Apr-14 Previously Reported MB043 5914695 303376 184 252 -51 263 10-Apr-14 Previously Reported MB013 5914937 303156 182 242 -60 82 25-Nov-11 Previously Reported BD070 5914768 303224 187 51 -60 82 1996 Previously Reported BD069 5914797 303227 188 39 -60 82 1996 Previously Reported BD067 5914853 303259 190 55 -60 264 1996 Previously Reported BD066 5914881 303255 190 54 -60 262 1996 Previously Reported BD065 5914908 303253 190 58 -60 267 1996 Previously Reported BD064 5914957 303249 189 61 -60 262 1996 Previously Reported BD052 5914834 303219 189 50 -45 87 1996 Previously Reported BD040 5914725 303263 185 33 -60 292 1996 Previously Reported BD037 5914751 303263 186 26 -45 262 1996 Previously Reported BD036 5914770 303262 187 30 -60 262 1996 Previously Reported BD035A 5914769 303259 187 26 -45 262 1996 Previously Reported BD035 5914774 303259 187 10 -45 262 1996 Previously Reported BD034 5914801 303257 188 33 -60 262 1996 Previously Reported BD033 5914801 303254 188 26 -45 262 1996 Previously Reported BD032 5914827 303252 189 36 -60 262 1996 Previously Reported BD031 5914827 303252 189 26 -45 262 1996 Previously Reported BD030 5914880 303249 190 39 -60 262 1996 Previously Reported BD028 5914852 303250 190 36 -60 262 1996 Previously Reported BD027 5914852 303250 190 26 -45 262 1996 Previously Reported BD025 5914907 303246 190 28 -45 262 1996 Notes: Coordinate System: MGA2020 Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2e299214-f60b-4dd6-8c1c-e24471cdc077 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e27a052a-98e8-4b3d-8b8e-204c4e5b9fcd https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b65b8748-44e4-4f55-bb38-404fe6dcdc39 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3cb66e17-cd4a-47f6-b632-97ce4723280f NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - According to a comprehensive new report from The Insight Partners, the global urban air mobility market is observing healthy growth owing to urban congestion and traffic mitigation, technological advancements, and increased investment and government support. The urban air mobility market is expected to reach USD 4.41 billion by 2031 from USD 41.23 billion in 2024; it is expected to record a CAGR of 31.4% during the forecast period. Urban Air Mobility (UAM) refers to the use of electric or hybrid aircraft, such as eVTOLs, for short-range transportation of passengers and cargo within urban and suburban environments. As cities face increasing traffic congestion and pollution, UAM presents a sustainable and time-efficient alternative to traditional ground transport. Driven by advancements in aerospace technology, battery efficiency, and autonomous systems, the market is rapidly evolving. Strong government support, regulatory developments, and growing private investment are accelerating commercialization and infrastructure development worldwide. To explore the valuable insights in the Urban Air Mobility Market report, you can easily get a sample PDF of the report - https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00004784 The report runs an in-depth analysis of market trends, key players, and future opportunities. The urban air mobility market is rapidly growing due to rising urban congestion, sustainability goals, and technological advancements in eVTOL aircraft. Increasing government support and private investment are accelerating commercialization. Demand for faster, flexible urban transport is driving adoption. The market is poised for strong growth across passenger and cargo segments. Overview of Urban Air Mobility Market Report Findings Urban Congestion and Traffic Mitigation: Urban congestion has become a significant challenge in rapidly growing cities, where increasing populations and vehicle usage lead to traffic jams, longer commutes, and reduced overall productivity. Traditional ground transportation infrastructure struggles to keep pace with urbanization, resulting in overburdened roads and public transit systems. Urban Air Mobility (UAM) presents a transformative solution by utilizing underutilized low-altitude airspace for short-distance travel. Electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft can bypass road traffic entirely, significantly reducing travel times and easing pressure on ground infrastructure. UAM can significantly improve urban mobility and enhance the overall quality of life in congested metropolitan areas by providing fast, efficient, and flexible transportation options. Increased Investment and Government Support: Increased investment and strong government support are crucial in accelerating the growth of the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) market. Private companies such as Joby Aviation, Archer, and Volocopter have attracted significant funding from investors, enabling them to advance aircraft development, conduct test flights, and build necessary infrastructure. Simultaneously, national and municipal governments worldwide recognize the potential of UAM to address urban mobility challenges and actively participate in its development. They are investing in pilot programs, supporting research initiatives, and crafting regulatory frameworks to ensure the safe and efficient integration of UAM into existing transportation systems. Agencies like NASA and the FAA in the United States, along with their European and Asian counterparts, are working on air traffic management systems and certification standards specific to UAM. This collaboration between public and private sectors is laying the groundwork for the commercialization and scalability of urban air transport. Geographical Insights: In 2024, North America led the market with a substantial revenue share, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific, respectively. Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Stay Updated on Urban Air Mobility Market Trends: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00004784 Urban Air Mobility Market Segmentation The urban air mobility market is segmented by platform into air taxi, passenger aerial vehicle, cargo aerial vehicle, and air ambulance. The passenger aerial vehicle segment held the largest urban air mobility market share in 2024. Based on operation, the urban air mobility market is segmented into piloted and autonomous. The piloted segment held the largest urban air mobility market share in 2024. Competitive Strategy and Development - Key Players: A few of the major companies operating in the urban air mobility market are Airbus SAS; Aurora Flight Sciences; Airspace Experience Technologies, Inc.; Bell Textron Inc; EHang Holdings; Embraer; Jaunt Air Mobility LLC; Kitty Hawk; Hyundai Motor Company; and Volocopter GmbH. - Trending Topics: automated aircraft, electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL), urban air traffic management, urban air taxis etc. Global Headlines on Urban Air Mobility Market - In June 2025, Eve Air Mobility signed its first binding framework agreement with Revo [flyrevo.com], an advanced urban air mobility (UAM) operator headquartered in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and its parent company, Helicopters International SA (OHI). The contract includes purchasing up to 50 electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft, associated entry into service and aftermarket services. This milestone marks Eve's transition from development to execution, solidifying its position as a leading provider of next-generation UAM solutions. - In January 2025, JetSetGo, a private airline that operates private jets and helicopter charters in India, announced its partnerships with SkyDrive and Eve Air Mobility to develop and deploy urban air mobility (UAM) services in India. - In June 2024, Airbus and Avincis, a well-established European helicopter operator, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to partner on developing Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). The companies will collaborate to explore opportunities for operating electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft throughout Europe. Get Premium Copy of Urban Air Mobility Market Size and Growth Report (2025-2031) at:https://www.theinsightpartners.com/buy/TIPRE00004784 Conclusion: Urban Air Mobility (UAM) is an emerging transportation solution that leverages electric or hybrid vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to move people and goods efficiently within urban and suburban areas. As cities face increasing congestion and pollution, UAM offers a faster, cleaner alternative to traditional ground transport. Advances in battery technology, autonomous systems, and lightweight materials have made these aircraft more practical and affordable. Governments and private companies heavily invest in UAM, supporting pilot projects, infrastructure development, and regulatory frameworks. This growing collaboration is helping to overcome operational challenges and accelerate market readiness. With increasing demand for sustainable, on-demand mobility, UAM is set to transform urban transportation, reduce travel times, and enhance overall quality of life in the near future. Trending Related Reports: Advanced Air Mobility Market Drivers and Trends by 2030 Mobility Technology Market Opportunities by 2031 Enterprise Mobility Management Market Key Findings by 2031 Healthcare Mobility Solution Market Size and Growth by 2031 Smart Mobility Market Size, Trends, Shares, and Forecast - 2031 Medical Mobility Aids Market Size and Share by 2031 Oil and Gas Mobility Market Size, Trends, Shares, and Forecast - 2031 About Us: The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as semiconductor and electronics, aerospace and defense, automotive and transportation, biotechnology, healthcare IT, manufacturing and construction, medical devices, technology, media and telecommunications, and chemicals and materials. Contact Us: If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us: Contact Person: Ankit Mathur E-mail: ankit.mathur@theinsightpartners.com Phone: +1-646-491-9876 Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1586348/5433556/The_Insight_Partners_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/at-31-4-cagr-urban-air-mobility-market-is-expected-to-reach-usd-4-41-billion-by-2031--the-insight-partners-302516086.html Brossard, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Mines d'Or Orbec Inc. (TSXV: BLUE) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has mobilized for its 2025 surface exploration program on a second high-priority target within the wholly owned Muus Property, located in the Abitibi gold belt of Quebec. This program is entirely separate from the Lac Bernard South drill campaign conducted earlier this year. While assays from Lac Bernard are pending, the Company is advancing work on this second target to continue unlocking the Muus Property's broader potential. Figure 1 - Location of the Muus property within the Chibougamau-Abitibi Greenzone Belt region. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6951/260486_f5a2fc32f4358897_001full.jpg Figure 2 - Map showing the area to be visited in the field (white polygon) and showing the high-resolution magnetic survey (2VD) that guided a preliminary structural interpretation of the area. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6951/260486_f5a2fc32f4358897_002full.jpg The 2025 surface exploration program will include: Systematic mapping and sampling across newly exposed areas and drill target zones. across newly exposed areas and drill target zones. Channel sampling over outcropping mineralized zones surrounding key targets intersected during the summer drilling program. over outcropping mineralized zones surrounding key targets intersected during the summer drilling program. Ground truthing of geophysical anomalies previously identified through airborne surveys. previously identified through airborne surveys. Prospecting and reconnaissance aimed at identifying additional drill targets for the next phase of drilling. CEO John Tait commented, "Our surface work in 2025 will build on the momentum of our spring drill campaign, where we successfully intersected zones of alteration and mineralization aligned with key regional structures. With multiple zones remaining open and untested, this summer's work is critical to expanding our understanding of the system and generating robust targets for follow-up drilling." Highlights from 2025 Exploration to Date: Over 2,000 metres drilled in the summer 2025 campaign at Lac Bernard South. in the summer 2025 campaign at Lac Bernard South. Multiple wide pyrite- and fuchsite-bearing zones intersected-alteration consistent with that of IAMGOLD's nearby 8.3 Moz Nelligan gold deposit . intersected-alteration consistent with that of . Assay results expected by the end of Q3 2025. IAMGOLD's Nelligan Discovery, located nearby, hosts: Indicated mineral resources of 3.1 Moz of gold (102 Mt @ 0.95 g/t Au) Inferred mineral resources of 5.1 Moz of gold (166 Mt @ 0.96 g/t Au) (NI 43-101 compliant as of December 31, 2024) Strategic Location The Muus Property is located along the Guercheville Deformation Zone in Quebec's Abitibi Greenstone Belt, in close proximity with IAMGOLD's Nelligan Deposit. The property covers 25,250 ha of prospective ground, with favorable geology, significant structural intersections, and widespread historical indicators of mineralization. Next Steps Completion of the surface mapping, sampling, and LiDAR work through Q3 2025. Assay results from spring 2025 drilling expected by end of Q3. Target generation and prioritization for follow-up drilling in late 2025 or early 2026. Qualified Person Technical information in this news release has been approved by Lucie Mathieu, P.Geo. OGQ #1774, technical adviser to the Company, who is a Qualified Person (QP) for the purpose of National Instrument 43-101. About Mines D'Or Orbec Mines D'Or Orbec Inc. (TSXV: BLUE) (OTC Pink: BLTMF) is a gold exploration company that controls 100% of one of the largest land positions near the Chapais-Chibougamau gold district of Quebec with significant historical production and major recent discoveries. The project is situated on the two major regional trends hosting IAMGOLD's Nelligan and Northern Superior Resources Lac Surprise to the south and IAMGOLD's Monster Lake to the north with excellent highway and road access. The Muus Project covers approximately 51,000 hectares in five separate blocks of prospective ground in the eastern part of the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. The Project is considered particularly prospective for gold mineralization, as a series of prominent ductile and brittle fault-sets transect the Property, including the Guercheville and Fancamp deformation zones, both of which are associated with numerous past and currently producing precious- and base-metal mines in the District. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD John Tait, CEO and Director For more information, please visit our website www.orbec.ca or contact Mr. John Tait, info@orbec.ca. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation that is based on expectations, estimates, projections, and interpretations as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, interpretations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance including in respect of the size and use of proceeds of the Offering, the timing and ability of the to close the Offering, including obtaining approval of the Offering from the TSX Venture Exchange, if at all (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information and are intended to identify forward-looking information. This forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company, at the time it was made, involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Although the forward-looking information contained in this news release is based upon what management believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the parties cannot assure shareholders and prospective purchasers of securities that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, and neither the Company nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any such forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake, and assumes no obligation, to update or revise any such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260486 SOURCE: Mines D'Or Orbec Inc. Asahi Kasei Life Science, a division of diversified global manufacturer Asahi Kasei, announced plans to construct a new spinning plant for its Planova virus removal filters in Nobeoka City, Miyazaki, Japan. The new facility will be the company's fourth spinning plant for hollow-fiber cellulose membrane filters. Construction is scheduled to begin in July 2026, with operations starting in January 2030. The initiative, backed by a grant from Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI), aligns with Asahi Kasei's recently announced medium-term management plan "Trailblaze Together," which positions the Life Science business as a key driver of future growth. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729344000/en/ Planova S20N Virus Removal Filters According to a report by Market.US, the global biopharmaceutical market is forecasted to surpass US$500 billion by 2032, with compound annual growth of 8.2% from 2022 to 2032. This will drive a sharp increase in demand for developing and commercializing new drugs, resulting in the need for virus removal filters essential in manufacturing biologics. With strong market growth projected to continue, Planova is well-positioned as one of the global leaders in virus filtration for plasma-derived therapeutics and biologics. The new plant will significantly expand the company's production capacity in response to accelerating global demand, focusing on the production of Planova filters S20N, 15N, 20N, 35N, and 75N. The planned capacity expansion represents a strategic investment to capture future demand, enhance global supply chain resilience, and reinforce the position of Planova in the high-value bioprocessing market. "This new plant reinforces the momentum behind our newly established Life Science business," said Yusuke Kanazawa, Head of the Bioprocess Division at Asahi Kasei Life Science Corporation. "It demonstrates Asahi Kasei's commitment to making strategic investments while responding to rising global demand for virus filtration. This project was selected under METI's Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Project, which supports the development of domestic infrastructure critical for vaccine production during public health emergencies. Through this government-backed initiative, we are strengthening our supply resilience and enhancing our competitiveness in the global biopharmaceutical market." About Asahi Kasei Life Science Asahi Kasei Life Science Corp. positions its bioprocess business as one of its key growth engines, encompassing the manufacture and sale of Planova virus removal filters and related equipment used in the production of biologics such as biopharmaceuticals and plasma-derived therapies. The company also provides biosafety testing services and biopharmaceutical CDMO services. Planova filters, in particular, are highly regarded in Japan and internationally for their outstanding virus removal performance and protein permeability as cellulose-based hollow fiber filters. In 2021, the company launched the next-generation cellulose membrane Planova S20N, followed in 2024 by Planova FG1, featuring higher flux. Through this expanding portfolio, the company delivers optimal solutions to meet the increasingly diverse needs of customers worldwide. For more information about Planova virus removal filters, please visit https://planova.ak-bio.com/products_services/. About Asahi Kasei The Asahi Kasei Group contributes to life and living for people around the world. Since its foundation in 1922 with ammonia and cellulose fiber business, Asahi Kasei has consistently grown through the proactive transformation of its business portfolio to meet the evolving needs of every age. With more than 50,000 employees worldwide, the company contributes to sustainable society by providing solutions to the world's challenges through its three business sectors of Healthcare, Homes, and Material. For more information, visit www.asahi-kasei.com. In April 2025, Asahi Kasei announced its new medium-term management plan "Trailblaze Together," continuing the path of structural transformation and pursuing carefully selected investments in strategic growth fields. By doing so the company aims at maximizing both profitability and company value by 2030 and beyond. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729344000/en/ Contacts: North America Contact: Asahi Kasei America Inc. Christian OKeefe christian.okeefe@ak-america.com Europe Contact: Asahi Kasei Europe GmbH Sebastian Schmidt sebastian.schmidt@asahi-kasei.eu The licensing agreement with Defiance ETFs expands investor access to companies driving the AI and power infrastructure buildout MarketVector Indexes ("MarketVector"), a leading provider of multi-asset and digital asset index solutions, has licensed its MarketVector US Listed AI and Power Infrastructure Index (MVAIPO) to serve as the underlying benchmark for a newly launched Defiance AI Power Infrastructure ETF (AIPO) from thematic asset manager Defiance ETFs. The licensing reflects growing investor demand for access to companies at the intersection of two long-term economic drivers: artificial intelligence and critical energy infrastructure. As AI expands across industries and applications, its physical footprint, in the form of semiconductors, data centers, and energy-intensive operations, is reshaping power demand forecasts and grid modernization efforts. "AI is not just a software revolution. It's a hardware and infrastructure story, and that side of the equation is only beginning to reprice," said Josh Kaplan, Director of Research at MarketVector. "This index focuses on the companies at the core of that buildout, including data centers, chipmakers, and energy innovators. The AIPO ETF gives investors targeted access to both sides of this secular transformation." MVAIPO tracks the performance of companies contributing to AI and power infrastructure through nuclear and decentralized energy technologies, electric grid equipment, utilities, engineering and construction services, data center operations, and AI-specific computing hardware. The index is reviewed quarterly and constructed with rules-based diversification, offering exposure to a high-conviction theme supported by strong underlying fundamentals. EBITDA and net income margins are projected to expand over the coming years, with return on equity expected to grow from 8% in 2025 to nearly 15% by 2027. To learn more about the index, visit the MarketVector US Listed AI and Power Infrastructure Index page. About MarketVector Indexes MarketVector Indexes ("MarketVector") is a regulated Benchmark Administrator in Europe, incorporated in Germany and registered with the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin). MarketVector maintains indexes under the MarketVector, MVIS, and BlueStar names. With a mission to accelerate index innovation globally, MarketVector is best known for its broad suite of Thematic indexes, a long-running expertise in Hard Asset-linked Equity indexes, and its pioneering Digital Asset index family. MarketVector is proud to be in partnership with more than 25 Exchange-Traded Product (ETP) issuers and index fund managers in markets throughout the world, with more than USD 67 billion in assets under management. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729882207/en/ Contacts: Media Contact Severine Thasler-Jager, MarketVector +49 (0) 69 4056 695 53 media-enquiries@marketvector.com Sam Marinelli, Gregory FCA, on behalf of MarketVector 610-246-9928 sam@gregoryfca.com NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Twinstake, the premier non-custodial staking provider for institutional clients, has released its groundbreaking ETH Activation & Exit Calculator to support optimal liquidity management and validator timing. Trusted by leading ETF providers, exchanges, hedge funds, and VCs, Twinstake combines elite service with easy integration with custodial partners, extensive asset support, enterprise-grade compliance, and the ability to build custom products. This tool equips clients with actionable insights on the best time to enter or exit ETH staking: whether individually, in batches, or via uploaded validator lists. Previously exclusive to Twinstake's Concierge clients, the calculator helped capture over $750K in additional rewards through smarter exit timing. It is now available via the Twinstake portal and API suite. "Twinstake's Activation & Exit Calculator minimizes missed rewards and strengthens our ability to offer top tier staking services, ensuring we continue to deliver market-leading reward performance for our clients," said CEO Andrew Gibb. To learn more about how Twinstake can enhance your staking strategy, visit twinstake.io . Disclaimer: Twinstake does not provide staking services to retail customers. This briefing note is not intended as a promotion, offer, invitation or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any investment, nor is it intended to give rise to any other legal relations whatsoever and must not be relied upon for the purposes of any investment decision. It does not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice. If you do not have the relevant professional experience in matters relating to crypto asset investments, you should not consider this briefing note to be directed at you. This briefing note and the information in it are not directed at, or intended to be made available to, retail customers. It is directed only at persons who are professional investors (for the purposes of the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (2011/61/EU) (known as 'AIFMD'); professional clients or eligible counterparties for the purposes of the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (Directive 2004/39/EC) (known as 'MiFID'); if you are in the UK, to "Investment Professionals" or "High Net Worth Companies" as defined in s.19 and s.49 respectively of the Financial Promotions Order , or as otherwise defined under applicable local regulations and at whom this briefing note and the information in it may lawfully be directed in any relevant jurisdiction. The appearance of any third-party hyperlinks or third-party reference in the briefing note does not constitute an endorsement, guarantee, warranty, or recommendation by Twinstake. Do conduct your own due diligence before deciding to use any third-party services. Twinstake shall have no liability for any loss or damage that may arise directly or indirectly from the use of or reliance on the information provided herein or for any errors or omissions in the information. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/twinstake-releases-industry-leading-eth-activation--exit-calculator-302516106.html JACKSON, WY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Labor Smart, Inc. (OTCID:LTNC), a Wyoming-based publicly traded company, today announced a landmark partnership for its functional hydration brand LOCK'DIN with Cencora, one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies. The collaboration will place LOCK'DIN Hydrogen Water and Electrolyte Stick Packs onto Cencora's B2B distribution platform, giving the brand access to tens of thousands of pharmacies, clinics, hospitals, and retail doors - representing the most significant growth milestone in LOCK'DIN's history. As part of the agreement, a portion of proceeds will support the Manny Pacquiao Foundation, reinforcing LTNC's commitment to meaningful social impact while scaling its consumer brands. The Foundation's mission to uplift communities through health, education, and empowerment directly aligns with the wellness-focused vision of LOCK'DIN. CEO Commentary "This partnership represents a turning point for LOCK'DIN and LTNC," said Brad Wyatt, Chief Executive Officer of LTNC. "The alignment with Cencora provides the highest validation possible for our recovery products - placement in one of the most trusted medical and pharmacy networks in the world. It accelerates our ability to scale and delivers the kind of growth our shareholders have been waiting for." Chairman of the Board Commentary "Our strategy has always been to pair world-class products with world-class platforms," said Tom Zarro, Chairman of the Board of LTNC. "Cencora's reach provides a foundation most functional beverage brands could only dream of. This agreement is a cornerstone of our 2025 growth strategy and positions LOCK'DIN for rapid expansion in the months ahead." Strategic Impact of the Partnership Access to a $290B+ revenue B2B distribution network with unmatched infrastructure Placement potential in tens of thousands of pharmacies, clinics, hospitals, and retail locations Participation in a marketplace connecting emerging wellness brands to independent retailers and healthcare providers Proceeds contributing to Manny Pacquiao Foundation programs in health and community development About Labor Smart, Inc. Labor Smart, Inc. (OTC:LTNC) is a Wyoming-based beverage and lifestyle company focused on building and scaling innovative consumer products. Its portfolio includes LOCK'DIN hydration and Adios RTD tequila cocktails. Through strategic partnerships, disciplined execution, and high-impact marketing, LTNC is positioned to compete in high-growth categories across North America and select international markets. About LOCK'DIN LOCK'DIN is a next-generation functional hydration brand delivering Hydrogen Water and Electrolyte Stick Packs formulated for peak performance, rapid recovery, and everyday wellness. Trusted by professional athletes and health-conscious consumers, LOCK'DIN offers clean, sugar-free hydration solutions backed by science. About the Manny Pacquiao Foundation The Manny Pacquiao Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting communities worldwide through programs in health, education, and empowerment. Founded by world champion and LTNC board member Manny Pacquiao, the Foundation creates pathways for sustainable impact and meaningful change. Forward-Looking Statements (Safe Harbor for OTC) This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the Company's partnership with Cencora, anticipated B2B distribution, product expansion, growth strategy, philanthropic initiatives, and expected financial performance. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially. Such factors include market conditions, regulatory approvals, consumer adoption, and the Company's ability to execute its plans effectively. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise them except as required by law. Investor Relations Contact: ir@laborsmartinc.com Website: www.lockdin.com SOURCE: Labor Smart, Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/food-and-beverage-products/ltncs-lockdin-partners-with-fortune-10-leader-cencora-portion-of-proceed-1054120 KUALA LUMPUR, MY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Camaroe Berhad ("Camaroe" or the "Group"), an integrated aquaculture group specialising in the farming and processing of black tiger prawns, has officially inked an underwriting agreement with M & A Securities Sdn Bhd ("M & A Securities") in preparation for its Initial Public Offering ("IPO") on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad ("Bursa Securities"). L -R: 1. Ms. Low Saw Cheng, Executive Director of Camaroe Berhad 2. ?Mr. Teoh Han Boon, Managing Director of Camaroe Berhad 3. ?Datuk Bill Tan, Managing Director, Corporate Finance of M & A Securities Sdn Bhd 4. ?Mr. Danny Wong, Deputy Head, Corporate Finance of M & A Securities Sdn Bhd Founded in 2009, Camaroe has grown from operating 4 ponds to managing 138 ponds across 5 coastal prawn farms, supported by a dedicated processing facility in Kapar, Selangor. The Group is involved in the sale of live black tiger prawns as well as processing and sale of frozen black tiger prawns, both head-on shell-on and peeled. Its products are distributed to both international buyers across China, South Korea and Taiwan as well as local wholesalers. According to the exposed prospectus published on Bursa Securities' website, Camaroe's IPO involves the issuance of 99.00 million new ordinary shares and an offer for sale of 49.50 million existing shares. The allocation of IPO shares is structured as follows: Public Issue Malaysian Public: 24.75 million shares or 5.00% of the Group's enlarged issued share capital, with 2.50% made available to public investors and the remaining 2.50% are made available to Bumiputera public investors. Eligible Persons: 12.38 million shares or 2.50% of the enlarged issued share capital will be allocated to eligible directors, key senior management, employees and persons contributing to the success of the Group through Pink Form Allocations. Private Placement to Bumiputera Investors: 61.87 million shares or 12.50% of the enlarged issued share capital are reserved for private placement to Bumiputera investors approved by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (" MITI "). Offer for sale Offer for sale of 49.50 million shares or 10.00% of the enlarged issued share capital by way of private placement to selected investors. Under the terms of the underwriting agreement, M & A Securities will underwrite 37.13 million shares, comprising those allocated to the Malaysian public and eligible persons via Pink Form allocations. The remaining shares will be placed to Bumiputera and selected investors via private placements. Mr. Teoh Han Boon, Managing Director of Camaroe Berhad, shared, "The signing of this underwriting agreement is a significant step forward in our listing journey. We are grateful for the confidence and support of M & A Securities as we continue to build Camaroe into a trusted regional aquaculture brand. With the IPO proceeds, we aim to enhance our processing infrastructure, adopt clean energy solutions, and invest in biotechnology to further enhance farming productivity and sustainability. These efforts will reinforce our position in the prawn export market." Datuk Bill Tan, Managing Director of M & A Securities Sdn Bhd, added, "We are pleased to support Camaroe in its transition to a public-listed company. With its vertically integrated business model, established export channels, and experienced management, the Group is well-positioned to capture the growing demand for premium black tiger prawn across Asia-Pacific. This IPO will equip Camaroe with the capital and strategic direction to scale operations and deliver long-term value." As outlined in the prospectus, the IPO proceeds will primarily be utilised for the construction of a new Bukit Raja Processing Facility, purchase of machinery and equipment, installation of solar panels, and the establishment of a biotechnology department. These initiatives are aimed at expanding processing capacity, improving sustainability, and driving operational efficiency. Camaroe's consistent growth, expanding export footprint, and forward-looking investments reflect its commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility, and excellence in aquaculture. With the upcoming listing on the ACE Market, the Group is poised to scale new heights in the regional prawn industry. M & A Securities Sdn Bhd is the Principal Adviser, Sponsor, Underwriter, and Placement Agent for this IPO. ### ABOUT CAMAROE BERHAD Camaroe Berhad ("Camaroe" or the "Group") is principally involved in the farming, processing, and sale of black tiger prawns. The Group operates multiple aquaculture farms across Malaysia, including Tanjung Karang, Penor, and Marang, and processes its harvests at its Kapar Processing Facility. Camaroe's products include live and frozen black tiger prawns; both head-on shell-on and peeled, which are supplied to both local seafood wholesalers and overseas importers in key Asia-Pacific markets such as China, South Korea and Taiwan. Over the years, the Group has developed into a vertically integrated aquaculture player with a strong focus on operational efficiency, biosecurity, and sustainable farming practices. With strategic plans to expand capacity and introduce a biotechnology department to enhance farming innovation, Camaroe is committed to delivering high-quality prawn products while supporting long-term industry growth and export competitiveness. Issued By: Swan Consultancy Sdn. Bhd. on behalf of Camaroe Berhad For more information, please contact: Jazmin Wan Email:j.wan@swanconsultancy.biz Qian Yu Chow Email:s.chow@swanconsultancy.biz SOURCE: Camaroe Berhad View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/food-and-beverage-products/camaroe-berhad-signs-underwriting-agreement-with-m-and-a-securities-for-1054172 Leveraging Northway Biotech's 20+ years of CDMO expertise, Diorasis Therapeutics is advancing AAV gene therapy for glaucoma treatment VILNIUS, LT / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Diorasis Therapeutics ("DTx"), a preclinical-stage biotechnology company developing gene therapies for ophthalmic diseases, has entered into a strategic partnership with Northway Biotech ("NBT"), a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), to establish a scalable cGMP production process for DTx's lead AAV-based gene therapy candidate for open angle glaucoma. Diorasis Therapeutics and Northway Biotech Announce Partnership Leveraging Northway Biotech's 20+ years of CDMO expertise, Diorasis Therapeutics is advancing DT003, a single-dose AAV gene therapy for glaucoma. As part of the collaboration, Northway Biotech will leverage its 20 years of experience in biologics manufacturing to develop a robust, compliant process for pre-clinical and clinical material production. The partnership includes AAV process development, analytical method development and qualification, pre-clinical manufacturing as well as clinical manufacturing of cGMP drug substance and drug product for anticipated clinical trials. Diorasis Therapeutics is focused on developing disease-modifying gene therapies in glaucoma with the goal of delivering extremely long-lasting efficacy from a single in-office dosing. Its lead program in open angle glaucoma is expected to enter clinical development following the completion of toxicology studies and regulatory submissions. Remis Bistras, CEO of Diorasis Therapeutics, stated: "Partnering with Northway Biotech is a critical milestone as we advance our lead gene therapy candidate toward the clinic. Our mission is to transform glaucoma care with a single, long-lasting treatment that addresses the root cause of elevated intraocular pressure in open angle glaucoma. Many patients face continued vision loss leading to irreversible blindness despite existing daily eye drops or surgery. We aim to change that trajectory by offering a durable, gene-independent solution that preserves vision and improves quality of life". Prof. Vladas Algirdas Bumelis, CEO and Chairman of Northway Biotech, emphasized the shared commitment to high-quality execution and innovation: "We are very proud to support Diorasis Therapeutics in advancing their promising gene therapy program. Our dedicated team brings long-standing experience in cGMP manufacturing of complex biologics, and we are focused on delivering a reliable, scalable process to help ensure a confident and efficient transition into clinical trials. This partnership built with DTx on mutual trust and honest communication allows us to move forward with clarity and make the right decisions together at every step." About Diorasis Therapeutics Diorasis Therapeutics is a late preclinical-stage biotech company pioneering gene therapies for ophthalmic diseases targeting intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering for glaucoma and neuroprotection. Its lead candidate DT003 targets the dysfunctional outflow of aqueous humor in glaucoma through a single, in office injection that enhances the eye's natural drainage system. By restoring physiological function at the source, DTx aims to deliver a long-term, gene-independent solution for lowering IOP in both juvenile and adult open-angle glaucoma patients. DT003 delivers directly to trabecular meshwork cells (via a single intracameral injection) a modified tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) gene, which is a master regulator for matrix metalloproteinases (enzymes that continuously remodel the outflow tissues). This approach is designed to restore physiological outflow of the aqueous humor by removing pathologically accumulated extracellular matrix material in the aqueous outflow system, thus reversing the root cause of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma. In preclinical models of open angle glaucoma, including mice and sheep, DT003 demonstrated durable IOP reduction to normal levels. Unlike gene therapies that target specific mutations, DT003 provides a gene-independent approach, taking advantage of gene therapy biofactory ultra-long duration characteristics, making it potentially applicable to a broad spectrum of patients with open-angle glaucoma - including both adult and juvenile forms of the disease. For more information, visit: www.diorasistherapeutics.com About Northway Biotech Northway Biotech is a leading CDMO specializing in protein-based biologics and gene therapies, offering comprehensive, end-to-end development and manufacturing services. With deep expertise in cell line development, process optimization, and cGMP manufacturing, the company supports programs from early development through to commercial production. Northway Biotech delivers robust gene therapy capabilities, including plasmid DNA manufacturing, viral vector production, and fill-and-finish services, supported by BSL-2 and BSL-3 infrastructure. The company also offers viral clearance studies to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of biologics and advanced therapies. Founded in 2004, the privately held company operates state-of-the-art facilities in Lithuania and the United States, delivering high-quality, compliant solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. For further information, visit www.northwaybiotech.com. Northway Biotech Contact: Prof. Vladas Algirdas Bumelis CEO and Chairman of the Board Diorasis Contact: Remis Bistras CEO Contact Information Vladas Bumelis CEO and Chairman of the Board vladas.bumelis@northwaybiotech.com SOURCE: Northway Biotech View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/biotechnology/diorasis-therapeutics-and-northway-biotech-announce-partnership-for-the-development-a-1054180 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - SOL Strategies Inc. (CSE: HODL) (OTCQB: CYFRF) (formerly, Cypherpunk Holdings Inc, "Sol Strategies" or the "Company"), a publicly traded Canadian company dedicated to investing in and providing infrastructure for the Solana blockchain ecosystem, announced today that CEO Leah Wald and CTO Max Kaplan will participate in a fireside chat hosted by Cantor on July 30, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. ET. The discussion will offer investors insight into Sol Strategies' position as a leading public company in the Solana ecosystem, with a focus on the Company's validator operations, SOL treasury strategy, and ongoing infrastructure initiatives. The session will be hosted by Brett Knoblauch, CFA, Head of Digital Assets Research at Cantor. About SOL Strategies SOL Strategies Inc. (CSE: HODL) (OTCQB: CYFRF) is a Canadian investment company that operates at the forefront of blockchain innovation. Specializing in the Solana ecosystem, the company provides strategic investments and infrastructure solutions to enable the next generation of decentralized applications. To learn more about SOL Strategies, please visit www.solstrategies.io. A copy of this news release and all the Company's related material documents regarding the Company may be obtained under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information: Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements and information. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements and information relating to the Company's or the Company's management team's expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future, and expectations regarding the characteristics, value drivers, and anticipated benefits of the Company's business plans and operations related thereto. Forward-looking information can also be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or indicates that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be" taken, "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding the Company's participation in the fireside chat and expectations regarding the characteristics, value drivers, and anticipated benefits of the Company's business plans and operations. There is no assurance that the Company's plans or objectives will be implemented as set out herein, or at all. Forward-looking information is based on certain factors and assumptions the Company believes to be reasonable at the time such statements are made and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The purpose of forward-looking information is to provide the reader with a description of management's expectations, and such forward-looking information may not be appropriate for any other purpose. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates, and opinions on the date that statements are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates, and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by law. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. Disclaimer: SOL Strategies is an independent organization in the Solana ecosystem. SOL Strategies is not affiliated with, owned by, or under common control with Solana Foundation (the "Foundation"), and the Foundation has not entered into any association, partnership, joint venture, employee, or agency relationship with SOL Strategies. None of the Foundation or its council members, officers, agents or make any representations or warranties, recommendations, endorsements or promises with respect to the accuracy of any statements made, information provided, or action taken by SOL Strategies and expressly disclaim any and all liability arising from or related to any such statements, information or action. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260434 SOURCE: Sol Strategies Inc. Detroit, Michigan--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (OTCID: AITX) (the "Company"), along with its residential security subsidiary Robotic Assistance Devices Residential, Inc. (RAD-R), today announced the forthcoming release on August 1 of a significant features upgrades for RADCam, the Company's AI-powered interactive security device for homes and rental properties. The update introduces new user-selected escalation levels for Agentic AI responses, streamlined login through Apple and Google Single Sign-On, enhanced app-based event logging, and expanded availability through Amazon. These improvements reflect RAD-R's advantages of being able to take the best from its sister company Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD-I) and use that to make RADCam more intelligent, convenient, and accessible for today's security-conscious consumer. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5243/260442_rad-radcam-v1_1_18-250729-1920x1080.jpg RADCam v1.1.18 brings several important upgrades that improve user control, convenience, and system performance: Customizable Agentic AI SOS Escalation : Users can now choose from Strict, Balanced, or Relaxed judgement levels before initiating autonomous intelligent outbound calls. : Users can now choose from Strict, Balanced, or Relaxed judgement levels before initiating autonomous intelligent outbound calls. Apple and Google Single Sign-On (SSO) : Simplifies login and reduces the need to manage additional usernames and passwords. : Simplifies login and reduces the need to manage additional usernames and passwords. Quiet Mode Event Logging : Captures and displays lower-level events in the app without triggering full engagement, helping users stay informed without unnecessary interruptions. : Captures and displays lower-level events in the app without triggering full engagement, helping users stay informed without unnecessary interruptions. Additional Enhancements: Includes bug fixes, user interface refinements, and reliability improvements for a smoother overall experience. "We built RADCam to redefine what consumers expect from home security," said Steve Danelon, President of RAD-R. "This update gives users more control, better usability, and smarter responsiveness. From customizable escalation to seamless login and new logging features, we're delivering improvements that make RADCam a more capable, more intuitive solution for homeowners and rental property operators alike." The RADCam store is now live on Amazon, offering consumers a convenient way to purchase the device and learn more about its capabilities. Amazon shoppers can now access RADCam with the same ease and speed they expect from their everyday purchases. "RADCam Residential remains a great part of our product line and its forthcoming release as an enterprise device compatible with, and sold through, RAD Inc will be an additional exciting development," said Steve Reinharz, CEO/CTO and founder of AITX and its subsidiaries. "This latest update reflects our commitment to innovation, accessibility, and user control. We're expecting to see RADCam take on a larger role in small business and enterprise applications, and the growing momentum affirms its potential to become a core part of how people protect their property, whether it's a home, a shop, or a corporate campus." Although RADCam was introduced as a residential solution, RAD-R and RAD-I, continue to expand its role in commercial and enterprise environments. RADCam configurations tailored for small-to-medium businesses are being developed with enhanced interactive features and support for AI-based agents like SARA, offering increased responsiveness and smarter threat detection for storefronts and offices. For larger clients, the enterprise version of RADCam will integrate with RADSoC, RAD-I's centralized command software, delivering multi-site coordination, scalable threat analysis, and real-time management across complex locations. These advancements significantly extend RADCam's value beyond the home, positioning it as an adaptable tool for organizations seeking to modernize their security approach. AITX is redefining the nearly $50 billion (US) security and guarding services industry[i] through its broad lineup of innovative, AI-driven Solutions-as-a-Service business model. RAD-I solutions are specifically designed to provide cost savings to businesses of between 35%-80% when compared to the industry's existing and costly manned security guarding and monitoring model. RAD-I delivers these tremendous cost savings via a suite of stationary and mobile robotic solutions that complement, and at times, directly replace the need for human personnel in environments better suited for machines. All RAD-I technologies, AI-based analytics and software platforms are developed in-house. RAD-I has a prospective sales pipeline of over 35 Fortune 500 companies and numerous other client opportunities. RAD-I expects to continue to attract new business as it converts its existing sales opportunities into deployed clients generating a recurring revenue stream. Each Fortune 500 client has the potential of making numerous reorders over time. About Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions (AITX) AITX is an innovator in the delivery of artificial intelligence-based solutions that empower organizations to gain new insight, solve complex challenges and fuel new business ideas. Through its next-generation robotic product offerings, AITX's RAD-I, RAD-R, RAD-M and RAD-G companies help organizations streamline operations, increase ROI, and strengthen business. AITX technology improves the simplicity and economics of patrolling and guard services and allows experienced personnel to focus on more strategic tasks. Customers augment the capabilities of existing staff and gain higher levels of situational awareness, all at drastically reduced cost. AITX solutions are well suited for use in multiple industries such as enterprises, government, transportation, critical infrastructure, education, and healthcare. To learn more, visit www.aitx.ai, www.radsecurity.com , www.stevereinharz.com, www.radgroup.ai, www.raddog.ai , and www.radlightmyway.com, or follow Steve Reinharz on X @SteveReinharz. CAUTIONARY DISCLOSURE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS The information contained in this publication does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit an offer to buy securities of Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (the "Company"). This publication contains forward-looking statements, which are not guarantees of future performance and may involve subjective judgment and analysis. The information provided herein is believed to be accurate and reliable, however the Company makes no representations or warranties, expressed or implied, as to its accuracy or completeness. The Company has no obligation to provide the recipient with additional updated information. No information in this publication should be interpreted as any indication whatsoever of the Company's future revenues, results of operations, or stock price. ### [i] https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/security-services-industry/ To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260442 SOURCE: Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. NIU Invest SE (NIU), headed by Austrian investor Cevdet Caner, has announced a proposal to invest in Critical Metals PLC (Critical Metals) by way of conditional subscription of up to 47,824,100 new Ordinary Shares. Critical Metals' Ordinary Shares are admitted to the equity share (transition) category of the Official List and to trading on the Main Market operated by the London Stock Exchange PLC. Critical Metals PLC has a 70% stake in the Molulu Project, a cobalt and copper mining asset in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This marks a critical capital injection into Critical Metals' Molulu Project. NIU's purchase represents a substantial new investment in Critical Metals. In April 2024, the Company invested 1,000,000 in a Critical Metals convertible loan note (CLN). Since then, NIU has invested a further 628,913 through convertible debt instruments and acquired all rights and interest in 69,960 CLNs and a facility under which 553,360 was due, both of which were previously held by an institutional investor. NIU has agreed to apply the sums due in respect of these debt instruments for new Ordinary Shares on or about closing of NIU's subscription. As a result of the transaction, NIU will own a minimum of 53.95% of Critical Metals' outstanding new Ordinary Shares at closing. Ordinarily this level of investment by NIU would result in NIU having to make a mandatory offer under Rule 9 of the Takeover Code. However, the Panel has given consent to obtain a waiver of this obligation by Critical Metals publishing a Code compliant circular (which was published on 16 July 2025) and obtaining approval of independent shareholders at a general meeting, which is scheduled to be held on 4 August 2025. The Molulu Project has the potential to evolve into a medium-size copper and cobalt mine near Lubumbashi in southeastern DRC. This copper region hosts large copper mines owned by companies such as MMG, CNMC, and CDM. The Molulu Project was previously mined by artisanal miners, and Critical Metals acquired the project in September 2022. Scout mining in the known copper area commenced in January 2023 for several months until a decision was made to conduct a diamond drilling programme. Critical Metals plans to further develop and expand the Molulu Project's mining operations to realize the asset's full value. Caner said, "We are building a dynamic portfolio in the Democratic Republic of Congo that will grow in tandem with the country. We are committed to local development and seek to quickly establish a stable and growing operation that will be a long-term partner with Molulu's communities and the Congolese government." NIU is a leading Europe and US-based investment company focused on entrepreneurship and value creation, with the goal of becoming a fully integrated mining investor and operator with assets across North America, Latin America, Africa, and Europe. Austrian entrepreneur Cevdet Caner has invested in the mining and property sectors for over two decades. NIU plans to make further mining acquisitions in 2025, building a diverse portfolio of critical assets that drive long-term growth and align with the global demand for key inputs to advanced industries and cutting-edge technologies. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250728971874/en/ Contacts: Media contact: Boyd Bailey hello@reputablepr.com Study shows potential of NanoCell Therapeutics' NCtx platform, and durable CAR-T therapy without ex vivo manufacturing First indication of stable, functional CAR-T cell generation in vivo using targeted lipid nanoparticles for DNA delivery NanoCell Therapeutics, Inc. ("NanoCell"), a biotechnology company developing a non-viral, DNA-based in vivo gene therapy platform, today announced the publication of research data in the Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer demonstrating its novel targeted lipid nanoparticle delivery system, termed NCtx. This technology enables the direct in vivo generation of chimeric antigen receptor T-cells (CAR-T), potentially transforming the accessibility and scalability of CAR-T therapies for cancer patients worldwide. The study, titled "T cell-specific non-viral DNA delivery and in vivo CAR-T generation using targeted lipid nanoparticles," represents the first successful demonstration of efficient non-viral DNA delivery to T cells in vivo, positioning NCtx as a promising advancement in the field of in vivo CAR-T therapy. While CAR-T therapy has shown remarkable success in treating hematologic malignancies, current approaches face significant barriers including high manufacturing costs (approximately $300,000 per patient), complex logistics, lengthy manufacturing times, and limited patient access due to specialized facility requirements. The NCtx platform co-delivers minicircle DNA encoding a CAR construct and transposase mRNA in a single targeted nanoparticle, enabling stable genomic integration and durable CAR expression. The system utilizes dual CD7/CD3 targeting to achieve T cell specificity while activating cells for enhanced DNA uptake. Researchers demonstrated that a single intravenous dose of NCtx led to robust CAR-T cell generation in multiple humanized mouse models, effective tumor control and significantly extended survival, durable CAR expression and functional anti-tumor activity at doses as low as 4 g/kg. "This research demonstrates a new path forward for CAR-T therapy," said Dr. Jacek Lubelski, senior author and CTO at NanoCell Therapeutics. "By enabling in vivo CAR-T generation through a single, targeted nanoparticle injection, we can potentially dramatically simplify treatment protocols while expanding access in the future to patients worldwide who currently cannot benefit from conventional CAR-T therapies." Results were generated using a dual-CAR construct targeting CD19 and CD22, developed by Shanghai Cell Therapy Group (SHCell) https://www.shcell.com/. "Our collaboration with SHCell underscores the power of combining innovative delivery platforms with cutting-edge CAR designs," said Dr. Maurits Geerlings, CEO and President of NanoCell Therapeutics. "We are excited about the potential of this partnership to accelerate the development of transformative therapies for patients with B cell cancers and beyond." The platform's modular design enables rapid adaptation for multiple therapeutic targets across oncology and autoimmune diseases. The study was conducted by research teams at NanoCell Therapeutics and the University Medical Centre Utrecht, with support from the European Union's Horizon Europe and Horizon 2020 research programs. As NanoCell continues to advance its NCtx platform, the company is expected to pursue an IMPD application pending financing, marking a critical step toward clinical development. About NanoCell Therapeutics, Inc. NanoCell Therapeutics is a privately held, transatlantic biotechnology company with locations in Wayne, Pennsylvania, and Utrecht, the Netherlands. The company is dedicated to pioneering transformative in-vivo cell engineering through its non-viral, DNA-based gene therapy platform, primarily targeting oncology and autoimmune diseases. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729090111/en/ Contacts: Media: ICR Healthcare Elizabeth Coleman Account Supervisor Phone: 203-682-4783 Email: elizabeth.coleman@icrhealthcare.com Searchlight Cyber has partnered with TRM Labs, the leading provider of blockchain intelligence solutions, to integrate new cryptocurrency analysis capabilities into its dark web investigation platform. The blockchain data provided by TRM Labs allows investigators to identify wallets linked to illicit activity, helping to combat crime ranging from ransomware attacks, to drug trafficking, to financial misconduct. The blockchain intelligence provided by TRM Labs allows users of Cerberus dark web investigation platform to dig deeper when they identify a cryptocurrency address. The enrichment provides details on the transaction history of the wallet and the ability to trace the assets across the blockchain, with the option to pivot into the TRM Labs platform where deeper blockchain analysis is required. Ultimately, this will support investigations into dark web criminals with new capabilities for tracing the flow of illicit funds. Searchlight's Cerberus platform is used by law enforcement and government agencies to investigate criminals who use the dark web for its perceived anonymity. Identifiers like cryptocurrency addresses, found by Cerberus, can be invaluable evidence in criminal investigations if they can be tied back to the individual. Dr. Gareth Owenson, Co-Founder and CTO of Searchlight Cyber commented: "Criminal economies on the dark web have thrived on the back of two technological developments: the ability to host sites on dark web networks like Tor and the use of cryptocurrencies for payment. The combination of these factors has created a level of pseudo-anonymity that criminals have historically used to evade justice. Like Searchlight, TRM Labs has a reputation for helping law enforcement gain back the technical advantage over online criminals and this partnership gives investigators a powerful combination of tools they can use to 'follow the money'." Rahul Raina, Co-Founder and CTO at TRM Labs commented: "TRM Labs empowers organizations to rapidly trace and understand blockchain activity with trusted intelligence that drives faster, more informed decisions. By integrating with Searchlight Cyber, we enable investigators and analysts to unify blockchain data with dark web intelligence in a single workflow-eliminating silos, accelerating investigations, and reducing time to critical insights. This integration helps both public and private sector teams uncover threats-from ransomware to nation-state actors-faster and with greater precision." About Searchlight Cyber Searchlight Cyber was founded in 2017 with a mission to stop threat actors from acting with impunity. Its External Cyber Risk Management Platform helps organizations to identify and protect themselves from emerging cybercriminal threats with Attack Surface Management and Threat Intelligence tools designed to separate the signal from the noise. It is used by some of the world's largest enterprises, government and law enforcement agencies, and the Managed Security Service Providers at the forefront of protecting customers from external threats. Find out more at www.slcyber.io. About TRM Labs TRM Labs provides blockchain analytics solutions to help law enforcement and national security agencies, financial institutions, and cryptocurrency businesses detect, investigate, and disrupt crypto-related fraud and financial crime. TRM's blockchain intelligence platform includes solutions to trace the source and destination of funds, identify illicit activity, build cases, and construct an operating picture of threats. TRM is trusted by leading agencies and businesses worldwide who rely on TRM to enable a safer, more secure crypto ecosystem. TRM is based in San Francisco, CA, and is hiring across engineering, product, sales, and data science. To learn more, visit www.trmlabs.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729406590/en/ Contacts: Searchlight Cyber Media Contact Aidan Murphy a.murphy@slcyber.io TRM Labs Media Contact press@trmlabs.com Former CIA senior executive, Keepit CISO, Red Team experts, and SaaS resilience leaders to address espionage, resilience, and backup independence Black Hat USA 2025 -- At Black Hat USA 2025, Keepit, the only cloud-native and vendor-independent SaaS data protection provider, is stepping into the spotlight to explore some of the cybersecurity industry's most pressing and overlooked issues: corporate espionage, the fragility of the SaaS ecosystem, and the importance of infrastructure-independent backup for true cyber resilience. From sponsored sessions and VIP events to in-depth conversations with leaders in data protection, Keepit will demonstrate how its purpose-built platform ensures uninterrupted access to business-critical data no matter what. Exclusive event: Inside the modern corporate espionage threat On Tuesday, August 5, Keepit will co-host an exclusive VIP dinner with CyberRisk Alliance (CRA). This invite-only gathering of cybersecurity executives, practitioners, and Keepit customers will foster deeper discussion on resilience, leadership, and evolving recovery standards in the SaaS era. The event is kicked off with the session "Corporate espionage: Lessons from a retired CIA insider", featuring Glenn Corn, a retired Senior Executive and Operations Officer with the Central Intelligence Agency, who will offer rare insight into how adversaries exploit trust and human behavior to compromise organizations from the inside. Corn will break down the tactics foreign intelligence agencies and commercial competitors use to target and recruit employees especially those with access to sensitive data and systems and how companies can better understand the threat before it's too late. His talk will be followed by a practical, solution-focused conversation with Keepit's Chief Information Security Officer, Kim Larsen. Kim Larsen, who has a background in the Danish intelligence service and in NATO, will draw on real-world scenarios to highlight how organizations can defend their data and people against espionage and insider threats. "Most security teams are laser-focused on cyberattacks and infrastructure vulnerabilities and rightly so but corporate espionage isn't a Cold War relic. It's alive and well, and we see adversaries exploiting SaaS services and insider access every day," said Larsen. "We're excited to share real intelligence and practical countermeasures at Black Hat this year." Session: Immutable backups, Red Team realism, and reclaiming control On Wednesday, August 6, from 12:00 to 12:20 p.m. in Business Hall Theater D, Keepit will host "Red Team tales and SaaS strategies for immutable cloud recovery, a 20-minute Black Hat sponsored session that blends strategy with adversarial insight. Bart Binder, Red Team Manager and Cybersecurity Analyst at Keepit, will reconstruct a recent cloud-breach scenario that illustrates how attackers erase or encrypt backups and how immutability can disrupt the attack chain. He will be joined by Niels van Ingen, Senior Vice President of Business Development and Strategy, who will walk through evolving SaaS-backup architectures and policy controls designed to ensure resilience by design. "Immutability is just the start," said van Ingen. "True resilience means retaining control of your data before, during, and after an attack and that control has to be intentional, auditable, and independent of your production systems." This session is part of Black Hat's cloud security and data protection tracks and will highlight the strategic and operational steps organizations need to take to defend their backups in the age of ransomware and insider compromise. "Too many organizations assume immutability means safety," said Binder. "But without independence, insight, and recovery assurance, you're still vulnerable. Resilience is about designing for failure and bouncing back fast." Interview: Rethinking resilience in the SaaS-first world Also on Wednesday, August 6, van Ingen will appear in the Dark Reading Newsroom at Black Hat for a recorded interview. The conversation will dive into the blind spots most SaaS-dependent businesses face when they rely solely on built-in tools and shared-responsibility models for backup and recovery. He'll outline why separating production and backup infrastructure is critical for maintaining access to data during provider outages, malicious activity, or administrative error and how Keepit's cloud-native, vendor-independent platform is redefining backup control. Session: Securing your clouds in a multi-provider world Van Ingen will return to the stage Thursday, August 7, from 2:40 to 3:00 p.m. in Business Hall Theater B for the session "Keeping your cloud(s) secure. This talk part of the Dark Reading program addresses the shifting threat landscape across hybrid and multi-cloud environments, where attackers exploit misconfigurations, third-party apps, and the expanding cloud services stack. As organizations migrate away from on-premises systems toward SaaS and IaaS, cloud security becomes not just a policy challenge but a business imperative. Van Ingen will share practical guidance on establishing the right security policies and controls to match today's distributed IT reality. "Data is no longer in one place and neither are your risks," van Ingen said. "This session is about understanding the new fault lines, then putting systems in place to defend across them." Executive team available on site With a growing presence in North America and a strong reputation across Europe, Keepit is becoming the go-to backup and recovery partner for IT and security leaders who want true independence, simplicity, and peace of mind. "Black Hat is where in-depth security conversations happen and that's what we're here for," said Kim Larsen. "We're not here to sell hype. We're here to show how true vendor independence makes your business stronger." Throughout the week, Keepit's executive team Kim Larsen and Niels van Ingen will be joined by Morten Felsvang, Keepit Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer and Frederik Schouboe, Keepit Co-founder and Chief Visionary Officer will be on the ground for product discussions, strategy meetings, and live demonstrations at Keepit Live Las Vegas, the company's dedicated presence at the event. Meet the Keepit team at Black Hat 2025 booth #1767. About Keepit Keepit provides a next-level SaaS data protection platform purpose-built for the cloud. Securing data in a vendor-independent cloud safeguards essential business applications, boosts cyber resilience, and future-proofs data protection. Unique, separate, and immutable data storage with no sub-processors ensures compliance with local regulations and mitigates the impact of ransomware while guaranteeing continuous data access, business continuity, and fast and effective disaster recovery. Headquartered in Copenhagen with offices and data centers worldwide, over 18,000 companies trust Keepit for its ease of use and effortless backup and recovery of cloud data. For more information visit www.keepit.com or follow Keepit on Linkedin View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729477594/en/ Contacts: For media inquiries please contact: Kari Walker Keepit US media relations kari@redironpr.com First major BI analytics platform to launch general availability of an enterprise-ready MCP server with native natural language to data capabilities, bringing the power of ThoughtSpot's Agentic Analytics Platform directly to any AI agent and business application MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., July 29, 2025, the Agentic Analytics Platform company, today announced the general availability of its Agentic Model Context Protocol, ushering in a new era of AI interoperability in agentic analytics. ThoughtSpot is the first major analytics and business intelligence platform provider to launch an enterprise-ready Agentic MCP Server, empowering businesses to seamlessly integrate ThoughtSpot's powerful agentic analytics capabilities into their AI agents, platforms, and interfaces that support MCP including Claude, Gemini and ChatGPT. As businesses increasingly explore and build custom AI agents, they often encounter a critical gap: the lack of robust analytics capabilities to deliver true self-service and trusted, context-aware insights wherever their users engage. ??This is because development typically doesn't have adequate time, resources and analytics expertise to build the analytical infrastructure and integrations needed for self-service on your enterprise data. The result is powerful AI tools lacking the visibility and actionable insights needed to drive value. ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server fulfills this need, accelerating time to insights for business and data teams by enabling them to discover insights and perform deep analysis on their structured enterprise data directly within their existing tools. It includes generally available integrations with leading platforms such as Claude, Gemini and ChatGPT. For product and developer teams, this groundbreaking feature allows them to launch personalized agentic analytics experiences with fewer resources and at a lower cost. "The launch of our Agentic MCP Server marks a pivotal moment in AI interoperability for analytics," said Francois Lopitaux, SVP of Product Management at ThoughtSpot. "We are empowering businesses to bring the full power of ThoughtSpot directly to their AI agents and applications. Unlike other solutions that offer basic API access or are still in experimental phases, ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server is enterprise-ready for structured data, delivering a complete suite of agentic analytical skills, grounded in customers' data and honoring existing security protocols. This is about delivering intelligence, self-service, and agent-powered experiences with the trust and security our customers expect." The Next Generation of Agentic Analytics Interoperability Designed to empower every user - from business leaders extracting actionable insights from AI agents and AI-augmented dashboards, to developers building the next generation of intelligent applications - ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server offers a seamless experience to gain instant access to actionable insights within their existing workflows. ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server offers several differentiating capabilities, including: Agentic AI that Thinks Ahead and Follows Through: ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server allows you to leverage the full skills of Spotter (https://www.thoughtspot.com/product/ai-analyst?utm_source=pr&utm_medium=content&utm_term=product_ai_analyst&utm_content=mcp_pr&utm_campaign=mcp_serverlaunch25), ThoughtSpot's agentic AI analyst. Spotter can reason, automatically ask follow-up questions, provide summaries, generate interactive Liveboards, and suggest next steps, delivering a far more comprehensive and actionable analytical experience. ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server allows you to leverage the full skills of (https://www.thoughtspot.com/product/ai-analyst?utm_source=pr&utm_medium=content&utm_term=product_ai_analyst&utm_content=mcp_pr&utm_campaign=mcp_serverlaunch25), ThoughtSpot's agentic AI analyst. Spotter can reason, automatically ask follow-up questions, provide summaries, generate interactive Liveboards, and suggest next steps, delivering a far more comprehensive and actionable analytical experience. Native Natural Language to Data Capabilities: ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server natively supports natural language, resulting in higher quality and more accurate insights. Unlike other BI vendors who depend on your agent to translate questions into generic API calls - creating a layer of interpretation that often leads to misunderstood queries and irrelevant results - ThoughtSpot provides a direct, intuitive connection and delivers answers you can trust. ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server natively supports natural language, resulting in higher quality and more accurate insights. Unlike other BI vendors who depend on your agent to translate questions into generic API calls - creating a layer of interpretation that often leads to misunderstood queries and irrelevant results - ThoughtSpot provides a direct, intuitive connection and delivers answers you can trust. The Most Complete Set of Agentic Skills: ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server delivers the market's most comprehensive suite of analytical capabilities for custom AI agents. Choose from relevant question generation to AI-augmented dashboard creation and real-time insights. While other BI vendors offer basic API access, ThoughtSpot provides purpose-built analytical skills that work together seamlessly. ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server delivers the market's most comprehensive suite of analytical capabilities for custom AI agents. Choose from relevant question generation to AI-augmented dashboard creation and real-time insights. While other BI vendors offer basic API access, ThoughtSpot provides purpose-built analytical skills that work together seamlessly. Insights Grounded on Business Truth: All AI insights generated from ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server are grounded on the industry's most robust agentic semantic layer (https://www.thoughtspot.com/blog/introducing-the-agentic-semantic-layer?utm_source=pr&utm_medium=content&utm_term=blog_agentic_semantic_layer&utm_content=mcp_pr&utm_campaign=mcp_serverlaunch25), ensuring no hallucinations. This ensures that your AI implementations efficiently and consistently apply your organization-specific IP, terminology, logic, and metric definitions, empowering end users with accurate, contextual insights that reflect your business reality. Empowering Deeper Insights and Seamless Workflows: With ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server, users can: AI Agent Integration: Empower custom-built agents and other LLM tools to call ThoughtSpot Spotter directly and search on structured data, streamlining complex analytical workflows. Empower custom-built agents and other LLM tools to call ThoughtSpot Spotter directly and search on structured data, streamlining complex analytical workflows. Analyze Structured and Unstructured Data Together: Seamlessly query across structured data from ThoughtSpot models and unstructured data like PDFs and internet searches, leveraging integrations with any client application supporting MCP, such as Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT. This enables a holistic view of your business, with the output including a dynamic Liveboard that offers far greater depth of answers to drive your business. Seamlessly query across structured data from ThoughtSpot models and unstructured data like PDFs and internet searches, leveraging integrations with any client application supporting MCP, such as Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT. This enables a holistic view of your business, with the output including a dynamic Liveboard that offers far greater depth of answers to drive your business. Increase Analytics Adoption and Data Literacy: Enable business users to get insights from their structured business data through Claude, Gemini, or ChatGPT, fostering a more data-literate organization. Easy to Get Started: ThoughtSpot's Agentic MCP Server is generally available for all customers. Instructions on how to start using the Agentic MCP Server are publicly available on ThoughtSpot's Github . Available integrations include, but are not limited to, Claude, Gemini, andChatGPT. Learn more at ThoughtSpot.com . About ThoughtSpot ThoughtSpot is the Agentic Analytics Platform for every enterprise. Our mission is to create a more fact-driven world by empowering everyone to explore any data, ask any question, and uncover actionable insights faster-leading to growth, better business outcomes, and efficiency in their organizations. With ThoughtSpot's intuitive natural language search, every user can confidently generate answers from their business data at every point of decisioning. The platform's unified capabilities, along with our agentic AI analyst, Spotter , enable users to create precise, transparent, personalized, and actionable insights with enterprise grade trust, security, and scale. Accessible via the web and mobile app, ThoughtSpot ensures intelligent decision-making happens seamlessly, wherever and whenever needed. For developers, ThoughtSpot Embedded offers a low-code solution to integrate AI-powered analytics directly into products and services, driving data monetization and boosting user engagement for customers. Industry leaders like NVIDIA, Hilton Worldwide, Capital One and Huel rely on ThoughtSpot to transform how their employees and customers take advantage of data to create better business outcomes. Try ThoughtSpot today and experience the new era of analytics. PR Contact: Russell Dougan russell.dougan@thoughtspot.com NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Faraday Copper Corp. ("Faraday" or the "Company") (TSX:FDY)(OTCQX:CPPKF) is pleased to announce that it has completed its previously announced brokered bought deal financing, including the exercise in full of the Underwriters' (as defined below) over-allotment option, for a total of 26,139,500 common shares ("Common Shares") sold at a price of C$1.10 per Common Share for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of C$28,753,450 (the "Brokered Offering"), concurrently with a non-brokered private placement of 18,200,000 Common Shares sold at a price of C$1.10 per Common Share for additional gross proceeds to the Company of C$20,020,000 (the "Non-Brokered Offering"). Collectively, 44,339,500 Common Shares were sold at a price of C$1.10 per Common Share for total gross process of $48,773,450 (collectively, the "Offerings"). The Brokered Offering was underwritten by lead underwriter and sole bookrunner Ventum Financial Corp., on its own behalf and on behalf of BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc., Canaccord Genuity Corp., Haywood Securities Inc. and TD Securities Inc. (collectively, the "Underwriters"). The Brokered Offering was made in accordance with the 'listed issuer financing exemption' in Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions, as amended by Coordinated Blanket Order 45-935 - Exemptions from Certain Conditions of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (together, the "Listed Issuer Financing Exemption"), to purchasers in any province or territory of Canada, except Quebec. Additionally, certain Common Shares were sold to Qualified Institutional Buyers in the United States in accordance with Rule 144A under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and purchasers in other qualifying jurisdictions outside of Canada as mutually agreed to by the Company and the Underwriters pursuant to the relevant prospectus or registration exemptions in accordance with applicable laws. The Common Shares issued and sold pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption will not be subject to a 'hold period' pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws. There is an offering document related to the Brokered Offering that can be accessed under the Company's issuer profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.faradaycopper.com (the "Offering Document"). The Offerings remain subject to final approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offerings to fund advancement of the Copper Creek Project, located in Arizona, U.S., and for working capital and general corporate purposes as set out in the Offering Document. The Common Shares offered in the Offerings have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Related Party Disclosure Trusts settled by the late Adolf H. Lundin (the "Lundin Family Trusts") acquired an aggregate of 9,450,000 Common Shares pursuant to the Offering, which constitutes a "related party transaction" pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Shareholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") as a private entity controlled by the Lundin Family Trusts is currently the Company's largest shareholder. Lundin Family Trusts' participation is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 in reliance upon the exemptions contained in Section 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a), respectively, of MI 61-101. A material change report was not filed more than 21 days in advance of the closing as the launch of the Offering only occurred within a short period of time prior to the closing of the Offering, and the Company wished to close the Offering on an expedited basis for sound business reasons. Further information regarding the Offerings will be provided in a material change report to be filed by the Company. About Faraday Copper Faraday Copper is a Canadian exploration company focused on advancing its flagship copper project in Arizona, U.S. The Copper Creek project is one of the largest undeveloped copper projects in North America with significant district scale exploration potential. The Company is well-funded to deliver on its key milestones and benefits from a management team and board of directors with senior mining company experience and expertise. Faraday trades on the TSX under the symbol "FDY". For additional information please contact: Stacey Pavlova, CFA Vice President, Investor Relations & Communications Faraday Copper Corp. E-mail: info@faradaycopper.com Website: www.faradaycopper.com To receive news releases by e-mail, please register using the Faraday website at www.faradaycopper.com. Cautionary Note on Forward Looking Statements Some of the statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking statements" and are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Faraday to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements concerning final approvals relating to the Offerings and the intended use of proceeds of the Offerings. Although Faraday believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way construed as guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include without limitation: market prices for metals; the conclusions of detailed feasibility and technical analyses; lower than expected grades and quantities of resources; receipt of regulatory approval; receipt of shareholder approval; mining rates and recovery rates; significant capital requirements; price volatility in the spot and forward markets for commodities; fluctuations in rates of exchange; taxation; controls, regulations and political or economic developments in the countries in which Faraday does or may carry on business; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, competition; loss of key employees; rising costs of labour, supplies, fuel and equipment; actual results of current exploration or reclamation activities; accidents; labour disputes; defective title to mineral claims or property or contests over claims to mineral properties; unexpected delays and costs inherent to consulting and accommodating rights of Indigenous peoples and other groups; risks, uncertainties and unanticipated delays associated with obtaining and maintaining necessary licenses, permits and authorizations and complying with permitting requirements, including those associated with the Copper Creek property; and uncertainties with respect to any future acquisitions by Faraday. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental events and hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and the risk of inadequate insurance or inability to obtain insurance to cover these risks as well as "Risk Factors" included in the Prospectus Supplement and the documents incorporated by reference therein and Faraday's disclosure documents filed on and available at www.sedarplus.ca. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation in such jurisdiction. This news release is not, and under no circumstances is to be construed as, a prospectus, an offering memorandum, an advertisement or a public offering of securities in Faraday in Canada, the United States or any other jurisdiction. No securities commission or similar authority in Canada or in the United States has reviewed or in any way passed upon this news release, and any representation to the contrary is an offence. SOURCE: Faraday Copper Corp. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/faraday-copper-announces-closing-of-c49-million-financing-1054151 KANSAS CITY, MO / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Insurtech innovator Mylo has been named to PropertyCasualty360's Insurance Luminaries Class of 2025 within the Innovation in Workplace Culture category. This recognition honors forward-thinking leaders and initiatives driving innovation in the property and casualty insurance industry. Workplace Culture honorees "actively support current insurance professionals and are engaging in finding and training new insurance stars." All Insurance Luminaries were selected by a panel of industry experts based on how impactful their work has been, how dedicated they have been to furthering modernization and humanization in insurance and how committed and dedicated they have been to high ethical standards, service and excellence. Mylo was recognized for a thriving workplace culture in which talented team members across sales, engineering, client relationships and more join forces daily to find better and smarter ways to help customers protect what matters with the right insurance. From its launch in 2015, Mylo knew building a future-forward culture within the insurance industry required rethinking its recruitment, hiring and retention. In addition to valuing top-tier skills, Mylo seeks out team members who connect with these four core values: INNOVATIVE: We learn, improve and evolve every day to deliver a remarkable future. TEAM-ORIENTED: We work together and win together. Each of us knows our role and owns it. IMPACTFUL: We set goals, exceed expectations and deliver outcomes that profitably grow our business. DEDICATED: With expertise and integrity, we empower clients, inspire employees and reward investors. Mylo's culture also focuses on continuing education, fun-filled events and benefits for every dimension of wellness - physical, mental, emotional and financial. "We're proud to be recognized by PropertyCasualty360 for building a culture that attracts so many smart and passionate people to Mylo," said David Embry, Mylo CEO and Founder. "Mylo is dedicated to bringing our customers innovative solutions and great service, and everyone is here because they care about our mission and contribute their talents to improving what we do." "Insurance is a complex and intricate industry with what seems like a million moving parts," says PropertyCasualty360 Editor in Chief Elana Ashanti Jefferson. "That's why my team and I enjoy hosting the annual PropertyCasualty360 Insurance Luminaries honor. This professional recognition program allows us the chance to spotlight companies, organizations, programs, practices, teams and individuals that truly make a difference in insurance." To learn more about Mylo's innovative workplace culture, please visit choosemylo.com/careers. ### About Mylo Mylo is amplifying insurance solutions to protect what matters. Through its patented Mind of Mylo recommendation engine, the insurtech leader connects individuals and business owners with top-rated insurance products from 100+ carriers, across business, auto, home, life and individual health. A growing ecosystem of 60+ channel partners and agencies embed Mylo's Amplifi? insurance intelligence platform. Mylo is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, and backed by Group 1001, the global investor with a powerful commitment to technology-driven insurance transformation. Mylo has been honored by Fintech Global's InsurTech100, Benzinga's Global Fintech Awards, Forbes' America's Best Startup Employers and more. For more information, go to www.ChooseMylo.com. Mylo Contact Maddie Hirsch mylo@calibercorporate.com SOURCE: Mylo View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/banking-and-financial-services/mylo-named-to-propertycasualty360s-2025-insurance-luminaries-for-inn-1053972 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - AJN Resources Inc. (CSE: AJN) (FSE: 5AT) (AJN or the Company) is pleased to announce that following a series of formal discussions and deliberations between Godu General Trading S.C. (Godu) and the O-Mining Group, Oromia Minerals Development Authority and senior officials of the Oromia Regional Government, the Company has received consent and full support from all parties to commence its due diligence on the Okote Gold Project located within 100km of the c4.5Moz Lega Dembi Gold Mine, the largest gold producer in Ethiopia. AJN will now mobilise field crews with support from Godu to conduct detailed mapping and sampling programmes on all new artisanal workings outside the area drilled previously. In addition, the Company will inspect drill cores from historic drilling carried out by MIDROC as well as a series of trenches excavated recently over artisanal workings by Godu in preparation for a 1,500m diamond core drilling programme as per agreement. Highlights Consent received to commence due diligence activities which include 1,500m of drilling on the Okote Gold Project Preliminary desktop studies have identified new areas of extensive artisanal workings to the north and east of the area drilled previously by MIDROC - no previous drill coverage Workings and spectral analysis cover an area of circa 3,000m x 500m within a potential mineralised corridor which transgresses the tenement from south to north Exploration team will now commence with detailed structural mapping and sampling of artisanal workings which will give an indication of the true size potential of the project - 25% of prospective target area covered by drilling A 1,500m diamond core drilling programme is scheduled to commence within 4 to 6 weeks - designed to confirm historic drilling results and to test grade and widths of mineralisation underlying the new, previously untested areas guided by the mapping and sampling of artisanal workings and trenching CEO and President Klaus Eckhof commented: "We are extremely pleased to have finally received consent to commence our due diligence on the Okote Gold Project, on which recent desktop studies suggest only 25% of the identified mineralised area has been covered by drilling. It has always been our view that the project has huge upside which was not drill tested previously and this appears to be the situation judging by the extent of artisanal workings to the north and east of the area drilled previously by MIDROC, the previous owner of Okote. Our field crews are expected on site within the coming weeks once all permitting and travel clearances have been finalised. We look forward to providing regular updates as our teams systematically map and sample known and new artisanal workings in preparation for the drilling." Okote Project - Preliminary Findings in the Desktop Study An ongoing desktop study revealed new extensive artisanal workings at several locations to the north and east of the area drilled previously by MIDROC. There has been no drilling in the area which supports the company's view that the Okote Project is under explored and has good potential to uncover new areas of gold mineralisation which will compliment previously defined gold mineral resources from historic drilling. The study showed that the workings covered an area of c3,000m x 500m to the north and east of the previous drilling as shown in Figures 1 and 2. In addition, a spectral study conducted previously identified a number of exploration targets for follow up with soil sampling and trenching. The spectral anomalies fall within an interpreted mineralised corridor which transgresses the tenement from south to north and are best defined in the southern 5km of the tenement (Figure 1). Figure 1: Historic drill holes, recent artisanal workings and spectral targets within the Godu licence area To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5922/260489_b205168f346b3807_001full.jpg Note: Spectral data from satellite or airborne sensors can be used to map geological formations, identify rock types, and detect alteration patterns associated with mineralization. Figure 2: Zone of new extensive artisanal workings and trenches covering 3km of prospective ground to the north and east of the historic drilling within the southern Godu licence area. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5922/260489_b205168f346b3807_002full.jpg The extent of recent artisanal activity is clearly shown in Figure 2 within an area that has not been drilled previously and covers a strike length of 3km. Since acquiring the licence, Godu conducted a trenching programme over the artisanal workings and selected portions of the spectral targets as shown in Figure 2 but could not cover the costs to have the samples analysed. Gold mineralisation at Okote is predominantly within NNE trending, 10-20m wide shear zones which hosts a series of en-echelon quartz veins containing sulphides, tourmaline and free gold. Shear zones within amphibolite and carbonate schists with quartz veins and stringers were exposed and sampled in the recent trenches. Continuous channel samples from prospective trenches will now be submitted to ALS Global in Ireland for gold analysis. The Company will now conduct detailed structural and lithological mapping all artisanal workings and open trenches and will log selected holes drilled previously to better understand controls on mineralisation during the 90-day due diligence period which commenced 18 July 2025. This will be followed up with a 1,500m drilling programme designed to twin selected holes from previous drilling and to test gold mineralisation below newly identified areas from mapping and sampling of the artisanal workings and trenches. QP Statement Mr. Dylan le Roux (BSc Hons) is an independent consultant of AJN Resources Inc. and a qualified geologist. Mr. le Roux is a registered Professional Natural Scientist (Geological Science) with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP Reg. No. 155814). Mr. le Roux is a qualified person (QP) under NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. About AJN Resources Inc. AJN is a junior exploration company. AJN's management and directors possess over 75 years of collective industry experience and have been very successful in the areas of exploration, financing and developing major mines throughout the world, with a focus on Africa, especially the Democratic Republic of Congo. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements The information in this news release may include certain information and statements about management's view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward-looking statements. Although AJN Resources Inc. believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, AJN Resources Inc. disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260489 SOURCE: AJN Resources Inc. SHANGHAI, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- At the end of June, SANY officially commenced construction of a 10MW photovoltaic power plant in Zimbabwe. The project, undertaken by a Chinese Mining Company, marks SANY's first solar project in Zimbabwe and the first in Africa to adopt the innovative "EP+F" business model, which integrates engineering, procurement, and financing into a customized solution to meet customers' financial needs. The project adopts SANY's self-developed 710 high-efficiency photovoltaic modules, paired with advanced inverters and high-strength support brackets. With a total installed capacity of 10MW, the project is scheduled for grid connection by the end of 2025. Once operational, it is expected to generate 18 million kWh annually, greatly easing Zimbabwe's power shortage, ensuring electricity supply for local industries and people's livelihood, and contributing to low-carbon energy transformation across the region. As the first "EP+F" business model of SANY Silicon Energy, the project offers a replicable framework for future international renewable energy collaborations. By significantly reducing the financial burdens for customers, the model enhances the accessibility and feasibility of clean energy adoption in emerging markets. The customer expressed confidence in future cooperation with SANY in broader areas, including microgrids, e-trucks, and EV charging infrastructure. This is not SANY's first PV project in Africa. At the end of 2024, SANY's Mining Microgrid Power Project connected to the grid in Zambia after four months of construction, marking Africa's first and largest single-unit "solar + storage + diesel" project. The first phase of the project, which has been placed in service, can generate about 16 million kWh of electricity annually, saving electricity costs of over RMB 20 million for customer, accounting for nearly 30% of their total production expenses. Following that milestone, SANY has successively signed three microgrid projects in Zambia, contributing to Africa's energy transition. After a 23-year friendship with Africa, SANY's cooperation with the continent has evolved beyond only equipment trade but a more sustainable collaboration. Today, SANY has 15 subsidiaries with branches in over 30 countries. Supported by 13 trusted dealers, SANY's equipment operates in over 50 countries and regions. Meanwhile, SANY has been committed to promoting local development and people's livelihood. In Africa, more than 50% of its workforce is locally hired, contributing over 5,000 local job opportunities. Looking ahead, SANY will continue to leverage its technology and management strengths to build a robust local supply chain, supporting Africa's green energy and economy growth. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2740152/img_v3_02ol_4e179488_c55c_44e7_b8d0_0b198002fb7m.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1518641/5435697/logo_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sany-scales-up-green-energy-footprint-in-africa-with-breakthrough-solar-projects-302516176.html Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - CanCambria Energy Corp. (TSXV: CCEC) (FSE: 4JH) (OTCQB: CCEYF) ("CanCambria" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has successfully remitted the concession fee for the Kiskunhalas Concession Area (the "KCA") to the Hungarian Ministry of Energy. With this payment completed, CanCambria has fulfilled all its financial obligations to secure the 945.9 km2 KCA. The Company's flagship Kiskunhalas Trough asset that extends southwest into a portion of the KCA. At a price equivalent of less than USD$10 per net acre, this concession agreement represents an extremely attractive low-cost entry, consistent with the Companies business model. CanCambria will now incorporate a wholly-owned Hungarian subsidiary, under the name CanCambria Kiskunhalas Koncesszios Ltd., to manage, plan, and execute the exploration and appraisal work program in the KCA. Dr. Paul Clarke, CEO of CanCambria, noted: "Our team is excited to begin working this prospective area. We believe in the strong potential of the KCA, both in terms of the extension of our existing unconventional tight-gas play fairway and additional conventional oil prospectivity (including potential for horizontal-well exploration targets). The Company will update the markets as the project further develops." The Company is also pleased to announce the addition of Hugh Grenfal and Christopher Yokoyama as key advisors to support its long-term technical and financial goals. Mr. Grenfal brings four decades of industry experience across European and international resource markets and has served as a Director and President of several junior mining exploration companies. He began his career with Grenfal Explorations Ltd. and later spent over a decade advising institutional and private clients on oil, gas, and mineral exploration opportunities from Zurich. Mr. Grenfal has an extensive background in asset management, prospect generation, and development, and in 2016 founded Peloton AG Switzerland to lead oil and gas ventures. Mr. Grenfal will serve as an advisor to the Board and CEO. Mr. Yokoyama will serve as the Company's petrophysical technical specialist, guiding the evaluation of all existing legacy well and log datasets, while also championing geo-operations and planning of new data acquisition. Mr. Yokoyama brings over 25 years of global experience specializing in exploration, field development, and unconventional resource assessments for companies including BP and Pioneer Natural Resources. His expertise in building static, data-driven models will help guide the company's completion design. Dr. Clarke stated: "We are delighted to add proven expertise to the Company as we embark on an ambitious evaluation of the Kiskunhalas Concession Area. Both Hugh and Chris bring a wealth of knowledge to the Company, and I am looking forward to working with them as we make progress towards developing the Kiskunhalas project." CanCambria also announces an engagement of Winning Media LLC to provide investor-focused digital advertising services to the Company in an effort to increase investor awareness and support its OTCQB listing. Under the Agreement, Winning Media will be paid a one-time fee of USD$100,000, payable in advance of the initiation of services. The agreement is for a three-month term commencing July 29, 2025, renewable upon agreement of both parties, and subject to prior approval by the Exchange. There are no performance factors contained in the agreement and Winning Media will not receive shares or options as compensation. Winning Media and the Company are unrelated and unaffiliated entities and at the time of the agreement, neither Winning Media nor its principals have an interest, directly or indirectly, in the securities of the Company or any subsidiary. Winning Media is based in Houston, Texas, and brings over 20 years of experience in the online advertising and investor marketing industry, specializing in digital and corporate brand marketing services to enhance corporate visibility and retail investor awareness. About CanCambria Energy Corp. CanCambria Energy Corp. is a Canadian-based exploration and production company specializing in tight gas development. With a globally experienced leadership team, CanCambria focuses on high-quality, de-risked projects with direct access to profitable markets. Leveraging industries' most advanced technologies they aim to commercialize their flagship asset, the 100% owned Kiskunhalas Project in southern Hungary, a significant gas-condensate resource in the heart of Europe. For additional inquiries, please reach out to: CAUTIONARY NOTE ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Certain information other than statements of historical facts contained in this news release constitutes "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking information"). Without limiting the foregoing, such forward-looking information includes statements regarding the Offering, Company's business plans, expectations, capital costs and objectives. In this news release, words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "likely", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking information. Forward-looking information should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved. Forward-looking information is based on information available at the time and/or the Company management's good faith belief with respect to future events and is subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. The forward-looking information set forth herein reflects the Company's expectations as at the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260494 SOURCE: CanCambria Energy Corp. Backed by leading pediatricians, celebrity investors, and seven years of R&D, Nara Organics is setting a new standard that exceeds both U.S. and European safety requirements After seven years of research and development, today marks the launch of Nara Organics-the first and only FDA-registered and USDA-certified organic whole milk infant formula developed to meet both European and U.S. safety standards, using no skim milk. Developed by moms, scientists, pediatricians, and nutritionists, Nara offers an organic, clean, nutritious alternative to routine formulas currently on the market-free from palm oil, soy, corn syrup, maltodextrin, and GMOs so parents can feel confident about what they're feeding their little ones. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729669297/en/ Nara Organics Infant Formula "Just like so many, breastfeeding didn't exactly go to plan," said Esther Hallam, Founder and CEO of Nara Organics. "In a panic, I searched for an organic formula to feed my baby and couldn't find a single option that I felt good feeding my daughter. Even the 'organic' choices had ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, palm oil, and soy-and I was shocked to learn that many of them were made by the same company, just sold under different brands. I created Nara because it's the formula I wish existed for my daughter. We spent seven years developing this product with no compromises, so that parents who are still demanding better don't have to settle." What Makes Nara Organics Different? USDA Organic Certified: Nara is the first and only whole milk infant formula (with no skim milk) that is USDA organic certified. Nara is the first and only whole milk infant formula (with no skim milk) that is USDA organic certified. Whole Milk Fats : Nara has the highest percentage of milk fat of any formula sold in the US. Almost all formulas on the market use skim milk, not Nara. Unlike many "whole milk" formulas that also add skim milk, Nara Organics uses whole milk, never skim. : Nara has the highest percentage of milk fat of any formula sold in the US. Almost all formulas on the market use skim milk, not Nara. Unlike many "whole milk" formulas that also add skim milk, Nara Organics uses whole milk, never skim. Made in Germany: Developed in the U.S. and manufactured in Germany, Nara Organics adheres to stricter-than-required U.S. and EU safety standards so that our customers get the best product. Developed in the U.S. and manufactured in Germany, Nara Organics adheres to stricter-than-required U.S. EU safety standards so that our customers get the best product. The Power of MFGM, Prebiotics and DHA/ARA: With naturally occurring MFGM, European required levels of DHA for brain development, and prebiotics for gut health and immunity, this formula is designed to support babies in their crucial first year. With naturally occurring MFGM, European required levels of DHA for brain development, and prebiotics for gut health and immunity, this formula is designed to support babies in their crucial first year. FDA-Registered Clinically Tested: Successfully completed a first-of-its-kind, large-scale, nation-wide, double-blinded clinical trial with infants to demonstrate safety and efficacy. Only a handful of brands have gone through this process in the last 50 years. Successfully completed a first-of-its-kind, large-scale, nation-wide, double-blinded clinical trial with infants to demonstrate safety and efficacy. Only a handful of brands have gone through this process in the last 50 years. Uncompromising Safety Purity: Awarded the Clean Label Purity Award and manufactured to EU safety standards, Nara Organics is rigorously tested to ensure it's free from hundreds of chemicals of concern, including harmful substances like lead and arsenic. Since recognizing the gap in the market in 2018, Hallam has raised $32 million with backing from top venture firms including AlleyCorp, Torch Capital, Corazon Ventures, BBG Ventures, and Gingerbread Capital. Notable individual investors include Serena Williams, Mindy Grossman, and Gina Rodriguez, in addition to Nicky Hilton, Erin Sara Foster, Keleigh Teller and Karla Souza who invested and serve as Nara's advisors advocating for safety, quality, and innovation in infant nutrition. In addition to venture backing, the company's scientific advisors include board-certified pediatricians Dr. Jessica Acker, Dr. Jessica Hippolyte, and Dr. Payal Adhikari, OB/GYNs Dr. Rachel Bervell and Dr. Latisha Moreta, pediatric nutritionist Nicole Silber, and neonatal nurse and sleep expert Cara Dumaplin 'Taking Cara Babies'. "As a new parent, you feel immense pressure to make sure you're feeding your baby the best," said Erin Foster. "And no matter how you choose to feed your baby, each and every parent deserves to feel confident in their feeding journey. For me, when I was ready to introduce formula for Noa, finding a product that was organic, clean and made with whole milk was paramount." As part of its launch, Nara Organics is donating over 1,400 cans of infant formula to Good+ Foundation, a leading national nonprofit that works to dismantle multi-generational poverty by pairing tangible goods with innovative services for under-resourced fathers, mothers, and caregivers, creating an upward trajectory for the whole family. Rather than one-time donations, this contribution represents a dependable source of clean, organic formula, supporting up to 40 families with consistent nutrition throughout their babies' first year. This joint initiative will be ongoing and expansive, with the number of supported families through Good+Foundation increasing alongside Nara's growth. "We're deeply grateful to Nara Organics for their commitment to families during the earliest and most vulnerable stages of caregiving," said Dr. Laurel Parker West, Good+Foundation Interim CEO. "Their donation helps us provide consistent, high-quality support to families who need it most-laying the foundation for healthy development, stronger bonds between babies and their caregivers, and brighter futures." Hallam is no stranger to helping parents-she previously built a community of over 1 million parents through the Nara Baby Mom Tracker app, the No. 1 baby and mom tracking app that guides families through the early days of parenthood. With Nara Organics, she is taking that mission further, offering a product that reflects her unwavering commitment to healthier, safer baby nutrition. At launch, Nara will be available for purchase at www.nara.com, with plans to expand to retailers. Two-can starter bundles are available for $36. For more information visit nara.com and follow along on Instagram at @narababy. About Nara Organics Nara Organics is a pioneering brand redefining infant nutrition with its first-of-its-kind USDA-certified organic whole milk formula with no skim milk. Founded by Esther Hallam, Nara offers a Clean Label certified, nutritious formula made with whole milk fats and organic ingredients to support healthy growth. Nara's formula is designed to provide essential fats and naturally occurring MFGM to help support brain development and has NO skim milk, palm oil, soy, corn syrup, GMO ingredients, artificial sweeteners, or gluten. Manufactured in Germany to the highest U.S. and EU food safety standards, Nara is FDA-registered and undergoes 2,000+ safety and quality tests. Nara has also built a community of over 1 million parents with its Nara Baby Mom tracker app, which helps parents navigate the early days of parenthood with a little more ease. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729669297/en/ Contacts: Media Contact: nara@jbc-pr.com CHT Security is recognized for innovation, operational excellence, and customer-centric strategies that safeguard Taiwan's digital infrastructure. SAN ANTONIO, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Frost & Sullivan is pleased to announce that CHT Security Co., Ltd. has received the 2025 Taiwan Company of the Year Recognition in the cybersecurity services industry for its outstanding achievements in innovation, strategy execution, and client impact. This recognition highlights CHT Security's consistent leadership in delivering scalable, end-to-end cybersecurity solutions that enhance national cyber defense and enterprise digital resilience. CHT Security excels in its unique ability to align its cybersecurity strategy with market demand with speed, precision, and scale. "Frost & Sullivan recognizes CHT Security's full-service model, proprietary innovation, and commitment to underserved markets as a strategic approach that positions the company for long-term growth and relevance," said Vivien Pua, senior industry analyst at Frost & Sullivan. Backed by the infrastructure of Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan's largest telecom provider, CHT Security has scaled rapidly by leveraging in-house innovation, cloud-based intelligence platforms, and AI-enhanced threat detection. Its long-term strategy integrates ESG principles, global certifications, and localized partnerships, ensuring service relevance across both high-impact sectors and underserved SMB segments in Taiwan and beyond. The company's innovation pipeline is anchored by platforms such as CypherCom, a hardware-based encryption solution that strengthens endpoint protection by isolating critical processes from compromised systems. Similarly, SecuTex ED and HorusEyes deliver real-time threat detection and scalable protection, bringing enterprise-grade cybersecurity within reach for smaller organizations. "Our mission is to make advanced cybersecurity not only powerful, but also practical and accessible - so that every organization, regardless of size, can protect what matters most." said Jeff Hung, General Manager at CHT Security. CHT Security's customer-first mindset is evident in its 24/7 multilingual support, biannual client feedback loops, and rapid on-site assistance. The company's focus on professionalism is underscored by rigorous internal assessments, government-aligned certifications, and a strong emphasis on staff training. This structured, responsive approach has fostered exceptional client loyalty, positioning CHT Security as a go-to provider for Taiwan's most sensitive public and private institutions. Frost & Sullivan commends CHT Security for setting a new benchmark in Taiwan's cybersecurity sector. From its strategic clarity and local responsiveness to its relentless focus on innovation, the company exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and deliver with precision. Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents a Company of the Year recognition to the organization that demonstrates excellence in terms of growth strategy and implementation in its field. This recognizes a high degree of innovation with products and technologies, and the resulting leadership in terms of customer value and market penetration. Frost & Sullivan Best Practices recognitions spotlight companies across global markets that demonstrate superior leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Our research and evaluation methodology includes comprehensive interviews, analysis, and benchmarking to identify industry leaders setting the standard for excellence. About Frost & Sullivan For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, megatrends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion . Contact: Tarini Singh E: Tarini.Singh@frost.com About CHT Security Headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, CHT Security (TWSE: 7765) is a subsidiary of the Chunghwa Telecom Group, the first telco in Taiwan. CHT Security is ISO 27001, ISO 27701, ISO 20000, ISO 17025, and IEC 62443 CBTL certified. In the government's annual review, CHT Security is the only cybersecurity company to receive straight A top ratings for consecutive years. With extensive experience in cyber defense and robust R&D capabilities, CHT Security offers a full spectrum of cybersecurity services and solutions, including security testing, SOC monitoring, incident response, and digital forensics. Its clients span across sectors such as government, finance, healthcare, high-tech manufacturing, retail, and more. It has also expanded its international presence, providing services to clients in Southeast Asia (including Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia), as well as in Americas and Europe. Contact: Karen Chen marketing@chtsecurity.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/frost--sullivan-commends-cht-securitys-cybersecurity-excellence-with-2025-taiwan-company-of-the-year-recognition-302513535.html NEW YORK and LONDON, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TresVista, a global enterprise that has established itself as a leader in delivering scalable, technology-enabled solutions that drive operational excellence across company types and industries, has entered into a multi-year, exclusive partnership with Model ML, the premier AI-native orchestration platform powering intelligent agents for enterprise-scale workflows. Together, the firms are building bespoke AI agents that will set a new standard across the investment services space. By combining Model ML's agent orchestration architecture with TresVista's unparalleled expertise in financial workflows, the partnership is poised to deliver capabilities the industry has never seen before, combining sophisticated and customized AI tools with human intelligence and accountability at the front end. "This is a generational leap - not an upgrade," said Sudeep Mishra, Co-CEO of TresVista. "We're fusing cutting-edge AI infrastructure with world-class domain knowledge to create AI agents that will soon make traditional approaches obsolete. Model ML's technical ability and approach to orchestrate agentic workflows when combined with our deep knowledge of financial processes is a clear winner in the marketplace and we plan to continue to push the boundaries of innovation. Together with the recent launch of Descrial, our product platform, we are gearing ourselves to thrive in a tech enabled world." The first wave of intelligent agents will be deployed to clients in TresVista's highest-value investment research workflows, tackling complex, high-touch mandates with enhanced precision, speed, and scalability. "Our clients are industry powerhouses and choose to work with the best," said Abilash Jaikumar, Co-CEO of TresVista. "They expect insight, innovation, partnership, and consistent value addition from us to help continuously power that dominance. We make sure our clients stay at the forefront of how technology and talent can be applied for lasting competitive advantage. The outcome of this collaboration is pace and precision, without compromising the depth and quality." Key Highlights: Exclusive collaboration : The partnership includes a tailored exclusivity framework, ensuring the uniqueness of the co-developed agents in the market : The partnership includes a tailored exclusivity framework, ensuring the uniqueness of the co-developed agents in the market Strategic investment : TresVista has invested in Model ML through its new corporate venture vehicle, deepening strategic alignment and long-term commitment : TresVista has invested in Model ML through its new corporate venture vehicle, deepening strategic alignment and long-term commitment Advisory board role : Sudeep Mishra, Co-CEO of TresVista has joined the Model ML advisory board and will provide strategic guidance rooted in domain expertise : Sudeep Mishra, Co-CEO of TresVista has joined the Model ML advisory board and will provide strategic guidance rooted in domain expertise Enterprise rollout begins in 6 weeks: Deployment will start in TresVista's flagship Research and Investment Services line and scale firm wide later this year "We built Model ML to meet the complexity of real-world workflows," said Chaz Englander, CEO of Model ML. "Our platform orchestrates language models, tools, and data pipelines into structured, reliable agents - giving partners like TresVista the power to design scalable intelligence around their unique strengths. This partnership is a blueprint for where enterprise AI is heading." This evolving role of AI in the financial services sector was recently spotlighted in an interview released by OpenAI with Chaz. Read the interview here. Together, TresVista and Model ML are not just building AI agents - they are actively redefining the future of investment services. About Model ML Model ML is an AI-native orchestration platform enabling enterprises to build modular, intelligent agents that integrate models, data, tools, and logic into end-to-end workflows. Trusted by high-performance teams in finance, consulting, and professional services, Model ML makes AI work at scale - securely, audibly, and reliably. About TresVista TresVista is a global enterprise whose business model is built to deliver enduring value. TresVista combines best practices, technology-enabled execution, and industry-leading talent to drive meaningful results. By integrating advisory capabilities with scalable delivery, TresVista helps clients operate smarter and grow stronger. TresVista's services include investment diligence, industry research, valuation, fund administration, accounting, and data analytics. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/tresvista-and-model-ml-announce-exclusive-partnership-to-build-industry-leading-ai-agents-to-redefine-the-future-of-advisory-and-investment-services-302516223.html The cell therapy market is anticipated to expand at a rapid pace owing to high incidence of chronic diseases, growing demand for novel treatments, and advancements in cell technologies. WESTFORD, Mass., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SkyQuest Technology Consulting published a report, titled, Cell Therapy Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2025-2032", valued at USD 6.3 Billion in 2024. With a projected CAGR of 21.5% from 2025 to 2032, the market is expected to reach USD 29.5 Billion by the end of 2032. Growing investments in biotechnology R&D, rising awareness regarding benefits of cell therapies, and increasing healthcare expenditure are also supporting cell therapy demand. Download Sample Pages of the Report: https://www.skyquestt.com/sample-request/cell-therapy-market Cell Therapy Market Dynamics Surge in incidence of chronic and genetic diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and autoimmune conditions is primarily boosting the demand for cell therapies. These therapies offer promising curative potential, especially for patients unresponsive to conventional treatments. Advancements in stem cell and CAR-T therapies have led to improved outcomes and long-term remission. As healthcare systems shift toward personalized medicine, cell therapies provide targeted, patient-specific solutions, making them a pivotal component of future therapeutic strategies. Surging investments in biotechnology R&D around the world and advancements in genomics and cell manufacturing technologies are also promoting market development. Techniques such as CRISPR gene editing, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and automated bioreactors have revolutionized the development pipeline. Government funding, public-private partnerships, and increased investments by biopharma companies are further fostering R&D. Recent Developments in Cell Therapy Market In March 2025, Indian vaccine maker Bharat Biotech said it will invest $75 million in its initial cell and gene therapy (CGT) plant in the southern state of Telangana. The new therapies are expected to hit the market in the coming three years, according to the company. In March 2025, Alcon, announced the acquisition of a majority interest in Aurion Biotech, Inc., a clinical-stage entity with a focus on producing innovative cell therapies for eye disorders. Aurion will remain independent, but with complete support from Alcon to push its allogeneic cell therapy product candidate, AURN001, into Phase 3 clinical trials for corneal edema due to corneal endothelial disease in the second half of 2025. Aurion will also benefit from Alcon's extensive resources in R&D, regulatory, medical, and commercial ophthalmology. In March 2025, YASKAWA Electric Corporation and Astellas Pharma Inc. signed a final agreement to create a joint venture to create a cell therapy production platform powered by the dual-arm robot "Maholo." The platform will also be made accessible to startups and academia to foster collaboration and boost innovation in the cell therapy industry. Speak to our Analyst: https://www.skyquestt.com/speak-with-analyst/cell-therapy-market Major Challenges in Cell Therapy Industry High cost of cell therapies, often exceeding hundreds of thousands of dollars per treatment is expected to hinder market development over the coming years. These prices are driven by complex manufacturing processes, personalized approaches, and logistical challenges such as cryopreservation and transportation. Limited reimbursement policies, particularly in developing economies, make therapies unaffordable for many patients. Cell therapy manufacturing involves intricate, time-consuming processes requiring specialized facilities, skilled personnel, and strict quality controls. Autologous therapies, customized for individual patients, are especially difficult to scale efficiently. Maintaining cell viability during storage and transportation is another technical challenge, requiring cryogenic conditions and tight timelines. Competitive Landscape Cell therapy companies can also benefit from government grants and supportive initiatives launched to help boost medical R&D. Cell therapy providers should invest heavily in research to boost innovation and stand out from the competition. New companies can penetrate the market with hefty capital raise and innovative approach to compete with established market players. The major players in the cell therapy industry include, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. (US) Merck KGaA (Germany) Danaher Corporation (US) Becton, Dickinson, and Company (US) Lonza Group (Switzerland) Sartorius AG (Germany) Nkarta, Inc. (US) Aurion Biotech (US) S. BIOMEDICS (Europe) MEDIPOST (South Korea) Anterogen Co., Ltd. (South Korea) JW Therapeutics (China) JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. (Japan) Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc (US) Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (US) Gilead Sciences, Inc. (US) Novartis AG (Switzerland) Intellia Therapeutics (US) Iovance Therapeutics (US) CRISPR Therapeutics (Switzerland) View Full Report: https://www.skyquestt.com/report/cell-therapy-market Cell Therapy Market Segmental Analysis By therapeutic area, the oncology segment dominated the global cell therapy market in 2024 as incidence of cancer diseases rises and remission of cancers increases. By therapy type, the autologous therapy segment dominated the global cell therapy market in 2024 owing to robust adoption of CAR-T cell therapies in treatment of genetic and cancer diseases. By end user, the hospitals and clinics segment dominated the global cell therapy market in 2024, which can be linked to high investments in adoption of advanced cell therapies in these establishments. Buy this Research Report (250+ Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures): https://www.skyquestt.com/buy-now/cell-therapy-market Regional Outlook Robust healthcare R&D activity, quick adoption of cell therapies, and high prevalence of chronic diseases help cement the dominance of North America in terms of cell therapy demand. Government support for cell R&D is also helping United States boost cell therapy adoption in the region. The Asia Pacific is slated to emerge as the fastest-growing region for cell therapy providers in the future. Growing awareness regarding cell therapies and availability of favorable reimbursement for novel therapies are further creating new opportunities. Emphasis on reducing cancer mortality rates is also driving the demand for cell therapies. Rising incidence of rare and chronic diseases coupled with a growing interest in novel cell therapies and treatments are helping boost cell therapy demand in Europe. Regulatory support and government funding are also expected to bolster the adoption of cell therapy in Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. In the LAMEA region, the cell therapy market is driven by rapidly rising prevalence of chronic diseases and subsequent demand for advanced therapies. Brazil is slated to be the top market for cell therapy companies in the Latin American region going forward. Explore Extensive ongoing Coverage on Health Care Sector: 3D Cell Culture Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast - 2032 https://www.skyquestt.com/report/3d-cell-culture-market Cell Culture Media Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast - 2032 https://www.skyquestt.com/report/cell-culture-media-market Single Cell Analysis Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast - 2032 https://www.skyquestt.com/report/single-cell-analysis-market Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Production Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast - 2032 https://www.skyquestt.com/report/induced-pluripotent-stem-cells-production-market Cancer Immunotherapy Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast - 2032 https://www.skyquestt.com/report/cancer-immunotherapy-market About SkyQuest Technology Consulting Group SkyQuest Technology Consulting Group is a leading Business Consulting and Market Research firm, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. The company comprises a team of research analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 40+ industries across 25 major countries worldwide, serving global clients across diverse industries. The company specializes in delivering customized intelligence, data-driven insights, and strategic advisory services that enable businesses to stay competitive and make informed decisions in rapidly evolving industries. Contact Us: SkyQuest Technology Consulting Group 1 Apache Way, Westford, Massachusetts 01886 USA (+1) 351-333-4748 Email: sales@skyquestt.com Visit Our Website: https://www.skyquestt.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2446095/SkyQuest_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/cell-therapy-market-to-reach-usd-29-5-billion-by-2032--growing-at-21-5-cagr--skyquest-technology-consulting-302516066.html RIO DE JANEIRO, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BloFin, a next-generation global crypto exchange, is proud to announce its role as Titanium Sponsor of Blockchain Rio 2025, one of the most anticipated and influential blockchain events in Latin America. The conference, taking place in Rio de Janeiro, will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and builders to shape the future of crypto, Web3, and digital finance across the region. BloFin sees Blockchain Rio as a natural opportunity to deepen its engagement with the local community and demonstrate its strategic commitment to the Latin American market. "Latin America is one of the most dynamic regions for crypto adoption," said a BloFin spokesperson. "Sponsoring Blockchain Rio is more than visibility - it's a chance to connect, collaborate, and create value with the developers, traders, investors, and innovators driving the ecosystem forward." As a Tier-1 exchange focused on trading, liquidity depth, and institutional-grade infrastructure, BloFin offers: Over 490 Popular USDT-M trading pairs Coin-margined trading Copy trading and advanced API access High-frequency sub-account solutions Unified account structure for professional strategies Institutional-grade security via Fireblocks and Chainalysis and Mobile app ranked Top 3 in performance globally Recently ranked Top 2 globally in liquidity and slippage control, BloFin continues to position itself as the platform "Where Whales Are Made." At Blockchain Rio, attendees will be able to visit the BloFin booth for live product demos, educational sessions, and exclusive giveaways. The company will also be hosting private sessions with partners and pro traders, focusing on growth opportunities across LATAM. About BloFin BloFin is a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange. The platform offers 490+ USDT-M trading pairs, spot trading, copy trading, API access, unified account management, and advanced sub-account solutions. Committed to security and compliance, xBloFin integrates Fireblocks and Chainalysis to ensure robust asset protection. By partnering with top affiliates, BloFin delivers scalable trading solutions, efficient fund management, and enhanced flexibility for professional traders. As the constant sponsor of TOKEN2049, BloFin continues to expand its global presence, reinforcing its position as the place "WHERE WHALES ARE MADE." For more information, visit BloFin's official website at https://www.blofin.com. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2710619/Blofin_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/blofin-becomes-titanium-sponsor-of-blockchain-rio-2025-reinforcing-its-commitment-to-the-latin-american-crypto-ecosystem-302516240.html Deals for insurance firms in United States and Canada dip 8% in first half, OPTIS Partners reports MINNEAPOLIS, MN / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / There were 319 announced insurance agency mergers and acquisitions in the first half of 2025, down 8% from 345 in the same period in 2024, according to OPTIS Partners' M&A database. The pace picked up in the second quarter, with 168 deals, up 11% from a year ago. American sellers accounted for 305 deals, while Canadian brokers accounted for 14 transactions. "The M&A market is likely at a new normal. We expect about 750 to 800 deals annually going forward," said Steve Germundson, a partner at OPTIS Partners, an investment banking and financial consulting firm specializing in the insurance industry. "Larger firms will continue to look for bigger transactions to fuel needed growth, and the number of buyers will shrink as some of yesterday's active buyers become tomorrow's sellers." BroadStreet Leads Buyers Among buyers, BroadStreet Partners recorded the most transactions in the first half of 2025 with 39. Hub and Inszone followed with 27 and 18 deals, respectively, while Keystone Agency Partners and World Insurance Associates each announced 17 purchases. The top 11 buyers (top 10 and ties) accounted for 187 deals or 59% of the total. All were private equity-backed firms except Leavitt Group (private), Arthur J. Gallagher (publicly traded), and Heffernan Insurance Brokers (privately held) Private-equity firms dominate buyers OPTIS Partners tracks buyers by four groups: private equity-backed/hybrid brokers, privately held brokers, publicly held brokers, and all others. The private equity-backed/hybrid group of buyers (32 firms) continued to dominate deal activity in the first half, accounting for 73% of all transactions. "Private-equity firms continue to invest," said OPTIS managing partner Timothy J. Cunningham. "Since the start of the pandemic, they've done about 70% of the total number of deals in each quarter. They've got the money and are willing to spend it for the right acquisition." Privately held brokers completed 62 acquisitions in the first half of 2025 while publicly held brokers reported 19 deals. P&C agencies are primary sellers The OPTIS report covers four types of sellers: property-and-casualty insurance agencies, agencies offering both P&C and employee benefits, employee benefits agencies, and all other sellers (life/financial services, consulting, and other businesses associated with insurance distribution). P&C sellers accounted for 209 transactions (65% of the total). Benefits agencies sales totaled 42 (13%), and there were 27 sales of P&C/benefits agencies (8%). All other sellers accounted for 43 sales (13 %). The full report can be read at https://optisins.com/wp/2025/07/h1-2025-ma-report. About OPTIS Partners Focused exclusively on the insurance-distribution marketplace, Minneapolis-based OPTIS Partners (www.optisins.com) offers merger & acquisition representation for buyers and sellers, including due-diligence reviews. It provides appraisals of fair market value; financial-performance review, including trend analysis and internal controls; and ownership transition and perpetuation planning. Contact: Steve Germundson, OPTIS Partners, germundson@optisins.com, 612-758-0598 Tim Cunningham, OPTIS Partners, cunningham@optisins.com, 312-543-5425 Dan Menzer, OPTIS Partners, menzer@optisins.com, 630-520-0490 Henry Stimpson, Stimpson Communications, Henry@StimpsonCommunications.com SOURCE: OPTIS Partners View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/banking-and-financial-services/insurance-agency-mergers-and-acquisitions-drop-slightly-1053499 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - IMPACT Silver Corp. (TSXV: IPT) (OTCQB: ISVLF) (FSE: IKL) ("IMPACT" or the "Company") is pleased to announce results from its initial underground drill program in the Santo Domingo Zone at its Plomosas zinc (lead-silver) Mine in northern Mexico. SANTO DOMINGO ZONE DRILLING First IMPACT drill intersections from the Santo Domingo Zone of the Plomosas Mine are as follows: TABLE 1: SANTO DOMINGO ZONE DRILL RESULTS Hole No. From (metres) To (metres) Interval (metres) Estimated True Width (metres) Zinc (%) Lead (%) Silver (g/t) ZnEq* (%) UGSD-2501 59.50 63.00 3.50 3.32 6.35 1.56 8.06 7.64 Including 61.50 63.00 1.50 1.42 12.50 2.56 14.80 14.66 UGSD-2502 70.41 82.50 12.09 10.68 4.13 2.32 10.02 5.97 Including 71.91 76.50 4.59 4.06 8.37 3.59 16.36 11.25 Including 71.91 72.53 0.62 0.55 23.30 15.00 54.10 34.78 Including 74.45 75.00 0.55 0.49 15.40 7.45 29.10 21.19 UGSD-2504 47.06 48.18 1.12 0.89 9.03 21.20 30.10 23.56 UGSD-2505 74.40 77.82 3.42 2.60 11.08 9.24 30.00 18.03 Including 76.86 77.82 0.96 0.73 12.50 15.55 37.00 23.70 *Zinc Equivalent (ZnEq) is calculated using recent metal prices of US$1.21/lb Zn, US$0.88/lb Pb and US$38.07/oz Ag, and metal recoveries of 88.9% Zn, 77.3% Pb, and 71.3% Ag based on recent Plomosas production mill recoveries. Metal equivalence values allow for easier comparison of mineral zones with multiple metals reporting. True width estimates are interpreted from current geological models. These Santo Domingo drill holes are located north of IMPACT's active mine workings in the Plomosas Mine (see Figures 2&3). All these Santo Domingo drill intersections lie outside the JORC mineral resource blocks published by the previous operator (see IMPACT news release dated April 3, 2023 for details). Santo Domingo Zone mineralization remains open for exploration and drilling is continuing. CEO STATEMENT President and CEO Frederick Davidson commented, "Finding high-grade mineralization on this extension of the Santo Domingo Zone beyond the mine workings, adds yet more upside to the Plomosas Mine. Before this drilling, this area had not figured into our mining plans but with the zone located close to our active mine workings at Plomosas, it represents another area where we can quickly add high-grade production. Drilling is continuing with the aim to define additional resources on multiple zones at Plomosas." PLOMOSAS MINE GEOLOGY AND MINERALIZATION The Plomosas mine, a historic high-grade zinc producer in northern Mexico (Figure 1), was acquired in 2023 by the Company. Recent drill programs have been undertaken on extensions of active mine areas in the Tres Amigos area and nearby in the Juarez and Santo Domingo areas, where drilling continues (see Figure 2). Mineralization at the Plomosas mine occurs as zinc-rich Carbonate Replacement zones in three bedrock units - the Mina Vieja marble (Tres Amigos Zone), the Juarez limestone (Juarez Zone) and in carbonate layers within the Cuesta Shale (Santo Domingo Zone) - where structural ground preparation along these units accommodated concentrations of zinc, lead, and silver (see Figure 3). ABOUT IMPACT SILVER IMPACT Silver Corp. (TSXV: IPT) is a successful producer-explorer with two mining projects in Mexico. Royal Mines of Zacualpan Silver-Gold District: IMPACT owns 100% of the 211 km2 Zacualpan project in central Mexico where four producing underground silver mines and one open pit mine feed the central 500 tpd Guadalupe processing plant. To the south, the Capire Project includes a 200 tpd processing pilot plant adjacent to an open pit silver mine with an NI 43-101 inferred mineral resource of over 4.5 million oz silver, 48 million lbs zinc and 21 million lbs lead (see IMPACT news release dated January 18, 2016, for details and QP statement). Company engineers are reviewing Capire for a potential restart of operations to leverage improving commodity prices. Over the past 18 years, IMPACT has developed multiple exploration zones into commercial production and has produced over 13 million ounces of silver, generating revenue of more than $284 million, with no long-term debt. Plomosas Zinc-Lead-Silver District: Plomosas is a high-grade zinc producer in northern Mexico with exceptional exploration upside potential. In late 2023, the Company restarted mining operations and is ramping up production toward design capacity levels. Exploration potential at Plomosas is exceptional along the 6 km-long structure. This is in addition to other exploration targets on the 3,019-hectare property including untested copper-gold targets with indications of high-grade material at surface. Regionally, Plomosas lies in the same belt as some of the largest carbonate replacement deposits in the world. Quality Control/Quality Assurance Drill core was NTW size (5.71 cm diameter). Half core samples were collected with a rock saw and tagged for identification. All samples were securely stored at the Plomosas Mine until shipment. A total of 5% certified assay standards and 5% blanks were inserted into every sample shipment as a quality control measure. All samples were shipped to the ALS preparation laboratory in Chihuahua, Mexico, where they were fine crushed (70% passing a 2 mm screen), pulverized (85% passing a 75 micron screen) and pulp split separated for assay. These pulps were shipped to the ALS laboratory in North Vancouver, Canada, where a 10 gram split was aqua regia digested and then analyzed for 36 elements including zinc, lead and silver by ICP-AES spectrometry (ALS code ME-ICP41). Assays for base metals >1% used an overlimit ICP-AES method (ALS code OG46). ALS is an independent, international ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory. Qualified Person and NI 43-101 Disclosure Silvia Kohler, P. Geo., a Senior Geologist employed by IMPACT Silver Corp. and a "Qualified Person" within the meaning of NI-43101, has approved the technical information contained in this news release. Additional information about IMPACT and its operations can be found on the Company website at www.IMPACTSilver.com . Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) @IMPACT_Silver and LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactsilver On behalf of IMPACT Silver Corp. "Frederick W. Davidson" President & CEO Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking and Cautionary Statements This IMPACT News Release may contain certain "forward-looking" statements and information relating to IMPACT that is based on the beliefs of IMPACT management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to IMPACT management. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "planned", "expect", "project", "predict", "potential", "targeting", "intends", "believe", "potential", and similar expressions, or describes a "goal", or variation of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "should", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding interpretation of drill results, activity at the projects and estimated timing thereof, the potential for defining and extending the known mineralization, exploration potential on the properties, and plans for drilling and future operations at the Company's projects or plans for financing. Such forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks and assumptions, including with respect to, without limitation, exploration and development risks, expenditure and financing requirements, title matters, operating hazards, extreme weather events, criminal activity, metal prices, political and economic factors, community relations, competitive factors, general economic conditions, relationships with vendors and strategic partners, governmental regulation and supervision, seasonality, technological change, industry practices, pandemics and one-time events. Should any one or more risks or uncertainties materialize or change, or should any underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and forward-looking statements may vary materially from those described herein. IMPACT does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement or beliefs, opinions, projections or other factors, except as required by law. The Company's decision to place a mine into production, expand a mine, make other production related decisions or otherwise carry out mining and processing operations, is largely based on internal non-public Company data and reports based on exploration, development and mining work by the Company's geologists and engineers. The results of this work are evident in the discovery and building of multiple mines for the Company at Zacualpan and in the track record of mineral production and financial returns of the Company since 2006. Under NI 43-101, the Company is required to disclose that it has not based its production decisions on NI 43-101 mineral resources or reserve estimates, preliminary economic assessments or feasibility studies, and historically such projects have increased uncertainty and risk of failure. 303-543 Granville Street Vancouver, BC, Canada V6C 1X8 Telephone (604) 664-7707 www.impactsilver.com X (Twitter) LinkedIn Figure 1: Location map of Plomosas Mine and nearby mines and infrastructure. References to nearby projects are for information purposes only and there are no assurances that Plomosas will achieve similar results. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4729/260506_666995e824c9cadc_002full.jpg Figure 2: Plan map of the Plomosas Mine workings. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4729/260506_666995e824c9cadc_003full.jpg Figure 3: Schematic cross section of the Santo Domingo Zone geology and mineralization showing new drill intersections. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4729/260506_666995e824c9cadc_004full.jpg To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260506 SOURCE: IMPACT Silver Corp. FIRST-HALF 2025 RESULTS Group revenue: 7,587 million down 16% as reported and down 15% on a comparable basis Recurring operating income: 969 million Net income attributable to the Group: 474 million "The first half of 2025 has been a period of momentous decisions for Kering. On the governance front, I recommended to the Board of Directors, which has agreed, that we entrust the role of Kering CEO to Luca de Meo, while I will retain the chairmanship. On the creative front, reinforced teams, headed by new designers at three of our largest houses, are hard at work, with passion and determination, intensifying the desirability and drawing on the heritage of all our brands. On the operational and financial fronts, in a particularly tough market environment, we continued to streamline our distribution and cost base, and, executing on our roadmap, we took decisive steps to strengthen our financial structure. Though the numbers we are reporting remain well below our potential, we are certain that our comprehensive efforts of the past two years have set healthy foundations for the next stages in Kering's development." Francois-Henri Pinault, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Kering's revenue in the first half of 2025 was 7.6 billion, down 16% as reported and down 15% on a comparable basis. Revenue in the second quarter of 2025 was 3.7 billion, down 18% as reported and down 15% on a comparable basis. The change in revenue as reported includes a negative currency effect of 3%. Sales from the directly operated retail network fell by 16% on a comparable basis, in line with the performance of the first quarter of 2025. Trends in North America (-10%) and Asia-Pacific (-19%) improved compared to the first quarter of 2025, while Western Europe (-17%) and Japan (-29%) decelerated sequentially, mainly due to a sharp decline in tourism. Wholesale and Other revenue was down 12% on a comparable basis. was 3.7 billion, down 18% as reported and down 15% on a comparable basis. The change in revenue as reported includes a negative currency effect of 3%. The Group's recurring operating income was 969 million in the first half. Recurring operating margin was 12.8%, a decline of 470 basis points compared to the year-earlier period. Net income attributable to the Group was 474 million in the first half of 2025. Free cash flow from operations amounted to 2.4 billion in the first half, including 1.3 billion resulting from the completion of real estate transactions. Operating performance Revenue (in millions) H1 2025 H1 2024 Reported change Comparable change (1) Gucci 3,027 4,085 -26% -25% Yves Saint Laurent 1,288 1,441 -11% -10% Bottega Veneta 846 836 +1% +2% Other Houses 1,459 1,717 -15% -14% Kering Eyewear and Corporate 1,092 1,067 +2% +3% Eliminations (125) (128) - - KERING 7,587 9,018 -16% -15% On a comparable scope and exchange rate basis. Recurring operating income (in millions) H1 2025 H1 2024 Change Gucci 486 1,007 -52% Yves Saint Laurent 262 316 -17% Bottega Veneta 127 121 +5% Other Houses (29) 44 - Kering Eyewear and Corporate 126 101 +25% Eliminations (3) (7) - KERING 969 1,582 -39% Gucci In the first half of 2025, Gucci's revenue amounted to 3.0 billion, down 26% as reported and down 25% on a comparable basis. Sales from the directly operated retail network decreased by 24% on a comparable basis. Wholesale revenue was down 42% on a comparable basis. In the second quarter of 2025, Gucci's sales decreased by 25% on a comparable basis. Sales from the directly operated retail network were down 23% on a comparable basis, a slight sequential improvement driven by North America and Asia-Pacific. While sales of carryovers remained down, new leather goods lines were very successful. In particular, the Giglio bag, unveiled as part of Gucci's Cruise 2026 collection, has already established itself as one of the House's most successful launches. Wholesale revenue was down 50% in the quarter. Gucci's recurring operating income was 486 million in the first half of 2025. Its recurring operating margin was 16.0%, down 8.7 points compared to the first half of 2024. The decline in margin was partially contained by major initiatives to streamline Gucci's cost base. Yves Saint Laurent Yves Saint Laurent's revenue for the first half of 2025 totaled 1.3 billion, down 11% as reported and down 10% on a comparable basis. On a comparable basis, sales from Yves Saint Laurent's directly operated retail network were down 10% while Wholesale revenue declined by 17%. In the second quarter of 2025, sales were down 10% on a comparable basis and by 12% in the directly operated retail network. New products were very well received, particularly in ready-to-wear and shoes. Wholesale revenue was down 5% in the second quarter. Yves Saint Laurent's recurring operating income amounted to 262 million in the first half, resulting in recurring operating margin of 20.4%, down 1.6 points compared to the first half of 2024. Bottega Veneta Bottega Veneta's revenue totaled 846 million in the first half of 2025, up 1% as reported and up 2% on a comparable basis. Sales from the directly operated retail network rose by 3% on a comparable basis. Wholesale revenue fell 3% on a comparable basis. In the second quarter of 2025, Bottega Veneta's revenue rose by 1% on a comparable basis. In the directly operated retail network, sales were stable on a comparable basis, with very strong growth in North America. Wholesale revenue rose 4%. Bottega Veneta's recurring operating income amounted to 127 million in the first half of 2025, resulting in a recurring operating margin of 15.0%, up 0.5 point relative to the first half of 2024. Other Houses Revenue from the Other Houses amounted to 1.5 billion in the first half of 2025, down 15% as reported and down 14% on a comparable basis. Sales from the directly operated retail network fell 11% on a comparable basis, and Wholesale revenue was down 23%. Revenue in the second quarter of 2025 was down 16% on a comparable basis, with contrasting performances among Houses. Revenue from the directly operated retail network of the Other Houses fell by 12% on a comparable basis. Balenciaga's sales in its directly operated retail network were resilient in North America and rose slightly in Asia-Pacific, but were slower in Western Europe and Japan. McQueen is accelerating the rationalization of its store network. Brioni's sales grew in its main markets. Sales remained solid at the Jewelry Houses. Boucheron continued its development in the United States, Pomellato unveiled a High Jewelry collection in collaboration with Gucci that attracted significant attention, and Qeelin's sales saw substantial growth. Wholesale revenue of the Other Houses was down 28% on a comparable basis. In the first half of 2025, the Other Houses made a recurring operating loss of 29 million, largely attributable to McQueen. Strict cost control helped mitigate this decline. Kering Eyewear and Corporate In the first half of 2025, total revenue of the Kering Eyewear and Corporate segment, which includes Kering Beaute, amounted to 1.1 billion, up 2% as reported and up 3% on a comparable basis. Kering Eyewear's revenue in the first half of 2025 totaled 921 million, up 1% as reported and up 2% on a comparable basis. In the second quarter, Kering Eyewear's sales were up 1% on a comparable basis. Kering Beaute's first-half revenue was 150 million, up 9% both as reported and on a comparable basis. In the second quarter, sales rose by 12% on a comparable basis, driven in particular by the strong performance of Creed's women's fragrances. In the first half of 2025, Kering Eyewear's recurring operating income was 186 million, compared to 196 million in the first half of 2024. The segment's recurring operating income rose by 25% to 126 million, after taking into account Kering Beaute's solid recurring operating income as well as lower Corporate costs. Financial performance In the first half of 2025, other non-recurring operating income and expenses were positive at 32 million. Income included gains on disposals of non-strategic assets and the capital gain on the sale of a building in Japan. Expenses consisted mainly of non-recurring impairment and restructuring charges, along with the allocation of a provision, based on the Company's best estimate to date of the risk associated with the European Commission's ongoing investigation into the fashion sector, regarding which the Company issued a press release on April 19, 20231. Net financial charges amounted to 280 million, or 163 million excluding interest on lease liabilities. Cost of net debt stood at 164 million, a moderate year-on-year increase. Interest expense was nearly unchanged, with a very limited increase in the average cost of debt, but rates on cash deposits were lower. The effective tax rate on recurring income was 27.5%. Net income attributable to the Group was 474 million. Cash flow and financial position In the first half of 2025, the Group's free cash flow from operations was 2.4 billion, including 1.3 billion from real estate disposals. At June 30, 2025, Kering's net debt amounted to 9.5 billion. Outlook To achieve its long-term vision, Kering invests in the development of its Houses, so that they continuously strengthen their desirability and the exclusivity of their distribution, strike a perfect balance between creative innovation and heritage, and achieve the highest standards in terms of quality, sustainability and experience for their customers. In an economic and geopolitical environment that remains uncertain, Kering continues to deploy its strategy with the aim of achieving a profitable long-term growth trajectory. The Group is stepping up the initiatives needed to support the development and growth of its Houses, while implementing with determination the efforts required to increase its efficiency. These actions imply particular vigilance with regards to financial discipline, related to control of the Group's cost base, selectivity of its investments, and management of its balance sheet. *** In its meeting on July 29, 2025, Kering's Board of Directors, chaired by Francois-Henri Pinault, approved the consolidated financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2025, which were subject to a limited review. WEBCAST Kering will present its first-half 2025 results in an audiocast, which can be accessed here at 6.00pm (CET) on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session for analysts and investors. The slides (in PDF format) will be available ahead of the audiocast at https://www.kering.com/en/finance . A replay of the webcast will also be available at www.kering.com/en/finance/. About Kering Kering is a global, family-led luxury group, home to people whose passion and expertise nurture creative Houses across couture and ready-to-wear, leather goods, jewelry, eyewear and beauty: Gucci, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, McQueen, Brioni, Boucheron, Pomellato, Dodo, Qeelin, Ginori 1735, as well as Kering Eyewear and Kering Beaute. Inspired by their creative heritage, Kering's Houses design and craft exceptional products and experiences that reflect the Group's commitment to excellence, sustainability and culture. This vision is expressed in our signature: Creativity is our Legacy. In 2024, Kering employed 47,000 people and generated revenue of 17.2 billion. Contacts Press Emilie Gargatte +33 (0)1 45 64 61 20 emilie.gargatte@kering.com Marie de Montreynaud +33 (0)1 45 64 62 53 marie.demontreynaud@kering.com Analysts/investors Claire Roblet +33 (0)1 45 64 61 49 claire.roblet@kering.com Aurelie Husson-Dumoutier +33 (0)1 45 64 60 45 aurelie.husson-dumoutier@kering.com APPENDICES EXCERPT FROM THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION RELATING TO THE FIRST-HALF 2025 RESULTS SITUATION AS OF JUNE 30, 2025 Contents page Announcements since the last publication 8 Consolidated income statement 9 Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 10 Consolidated balance sheet 11 Consolidated statement of cash flows 12 Breakdown of revenue 13 Main definitions 14 MAIN HIGHLIGHTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS SINCE THE LAST PUBLICATION Publication of Kering's first Water Strategy On April 28, Kering published its first Water Strategy, committing to having a net positive impact on the main water basins of its operational regions by 2035, and globally by 2050. Kering is adopting a science-based approach, reasserting its intent of addressing water-related issues that have a direct link with climate and biodiversity, in order to limit risks in its value chain while also generating positive long-term effects. Pierpaolo Piccioli appointed Artistic Director of Balenciaga On May 19, Pierpaolo Piccioli was appointed Artistic Director of Balenciaga, effective July 10, 2025. 750 million bond issue On May 20, as part of the Group's active liquidity management, Kering announced a 750 million issue of bonds with a 4.5-year maturity and a coupon of 3.125%, enabling it to enhance its financial flexibility. Continuation of Kering Eyewear's industrial development strategy In the first half of 2025, Kering Eyewear made strategic acquisitions aimed at consolidating its leading position in luxury eyewear and building an integrated value chain. On April 3, Kering Eyewear signed an agreement with two Italian eyewear manufacturers with a view to acquiring 100% of Visard, along with a minority stake in Mistral and an option to acquire all of its remaining capital by 2030. The transaction is subject to the approval of the antitrust authorities and should be completed in the third quarter of 2025. On June 10, Kering Eyewear also announced the acquisition of Lenti, an Italian manufacturer that makes sun lenses in particular, further strengthening its industrial capabilities. Announcement of Luca de Meo's appointment as Chief Executive Officer On June 16, Kering's Board of Directors approved the appointment of Luca de Meo as the Group's Chief Executive Officer. This decision, initiated by Francois-Henri Pinault, represents a major milestone in Kering's governance and strengthens the Group's leadership in this new phase of its development. As part of an updated governance structure, the role of Chairman of the Board of Directors, held by Francois-Henri Pinault, will be separated from that of Chief Executive Officer. This governance arrangement complies with current best practice for large listed companies. These changes will take effect pursuant to the decision taken by the Board of Directors in a meeting held after the General Meeting of shareholders to be held on September 9, 2025. Subject to those changes being approved, Luca de Meo will take up his role as CEO on September 15, 2025. CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT (in millions) First half 2025 First half 2024 CONTINUING OPERATIONS Revenue 7,587 9,018 Cost of sales (2,048) (2,310) Gross margin 5,539 6,708 Other personnel expenses (1,453) (1,547) Other recurring operating income and expenses (3,117) (3,579) Recurring operating income 969 1,582 Other non-recurring operating income and expenses 32 (13) Operating income 1,001 1,569 Financial result (280) (288) Income before tax 721 1,281 Income tax expense (199) (345) Share in earnings (losses) of equity-accounted companies 1 4 Net income from continuing operations 523 940 o/w attributable to the Group 474 878 o/w attributable to minority interests 49 62 DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS Net income (loss) from discontinued operations - - o/w attributable to the Group - - o/w attributable to minority interests - - GROUP TOTAL Net income of consolidated companies 523 940 o/w attributable to the Group 474 878 o/w attributable to minority interests 49 62 (in millions) First half 2025 First half 2024 Net income attributable to the Group 474 878 Basic earnings per share (in ) 3.86 7.16 Diluted earnings per share (in ) 3.86 7.16 Net income from continuing operations attributable to the Group 474 878 Basic earnings per share (in ) 3.86 7.16 Diluted earnings per share (in ) 3.86 7.16 Net income from continuing operations (excluding non-recurring items) attributable to the Group 450 888 Basic earnings per share (in ) 3.67 7.24 Diluted earnings per share (in ) 3.67 7.24 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (in millions) First half 2025 First half 2024 Net income 523 940 o/w attributable to the Group 474 878 o/w attributable to minority interests 49 62 Change in currency translation adjustments relating to consolidated Subsidiaries (309) 11 change in currency translation adjustments (309) 11 amounts transferred to the income statement - - Change in foreign currency cash flow hedges 162 (63) change in fair value 222 (16) amounts transferred to the income statement (12) (52) tax effects (47) 5 Change in other comprehensive income (loss) of equity-accounted Companies - - change in fair value - - amounts transferred to the income statement - - Gains and losses recognized in equity, to be transferred to the income statement (147) (52) Change in provisions for pensions and other post-employment benefits 1 (6) change in actuarial gains and losses 1 (8) tax effects - 2 Change in financial assets measured at fair value (2) 15 change in fair value (2) 13 tax effects 1 2 Gains and losses recognized in equity, not to be transferred to the income statement (1) 9 Total gains and losses recognized in equity (148) (43) COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 375 897 o/w attributable to the Group 343 834 o/w attributable to minority interests 32 63 CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET Assets (in millions) June 30, 2025 Dec. 31, 2024 Goodwill 6,227 6,277 Brands and other intangible assets 9,171 9,287 Lease right-of-use assets 5,625 5,615 Property plant and equipment 5,886 6,537 Investments in equity-accounted companies 1,927 1,762 Non-current financial assets 567 492 Deferred tax assets 1,678 1,651 Other non-current assets 20 27 Non current assets 31,101 31,648 Inventories 3,890 3,992 Trade receivables and accrued income 951 1,003 Current tax receivables 630 680 Current financial assets 207 42 Other current assets 1,413 1,388 Cash and cash equivalents 4,240 3,518 Current assets 11,331 10,623 Assets held for sale - 1,075 TOTAL ASSETS 42,432 43,346 Equity and liabilities (in millions) June 30, 2025 Dec. 31, 2024 Equity attributable to the Group 14,769 14,904 Equity attributable to the minority interests 841 826 Equity 15,610 15,730 Non-current borrowings 10,750 10,556 Non-current lease liabilities 5,125 5,056 Non-current financial liabilities 38 13 Non-current provisions for pensions and other post-employment benefits 86 85 Non-current provisions 57 51 Deferred tax liabilities 2,026 1,985 Other non-current liabilities 177 278 Non current liabilities 18,259 18,024 Current borrowings 2,993 3,479 Current lease liabilities 1,018 1,051 Current financial liabilities 13 343 Trade payables and accrued expenses 1,990 2,098 Current provisions for pensions and other post-employment benefits 14 13 Current provisions 289 191 Current tax liabilities 611 528 Other current liabilities 1,635 1,889 Current liabilities 8,563 9,592 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale - - TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 42,432 43,346 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOW (in millions) First half 2025 First half 2024 Net income from continuing operations 523 940 Net recurring charges to depreciation, amortization and provision on non-current operating assets 1,042 1,013 Other non-cash (income) expenses (234) 10 Cash flow received from operating activities 1,331 1,963 Interest paid (received) 268 229 Dividends received - (2) Current tax expense 296 312 Cash flow received from operating activities before tax dividends and interests 1,895 2,502 Change in working capital requirement (261) 44 Income tax paid (162) (100) Net cash received from operating activities 1,472 2,446 Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (431) (1,391) Disposals of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 1,342 - Acquisitions of subsidiaries and associates, net of cash acquired (268) (23) Disposals of subsidiaries and associates, net of cash transferred 343 - Acquisitions of other financial assets (17) (35) Disposals of other financial assets 6 97 Interest and dividends received 31 30 Net cash received from (used in) investing activities 1,006 (1,322) Increase (decrease) in share capital and other transactions - - Dividends paid to shareholders of Kering SA (736) (1,716) Dividends paid to minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries (7) (6) Transactions with minority interests (14) (3) (Acquisitions) disposals of Kering treasury shares - 3 Issuance of bonds and bank debt 772 1,750 Redemption of bonds and bank debt (775) (512) Issuance (redemption) of other borrowings (126) 153 Repayment of lease liabilities (536) (530) Interest paid and equivalent (295) (254) Net cash received from (used in) from financing activities (1,717) (1,116) Net cash received from (used in) discontinued operations (1) - Impact of exchange rate variations on cash and cash equivalents 109 37 Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 869 46 Cash and cash equivalents at opening 3,309 3,650 Cash and cash equivalents at closing 4,178 3,696 REVENUE FOR THE FIRST AND SECOND QUARTERS (in millions) H1 2025 H1 2024 Reported change Comparable change (1) Q2 2025 Q2 2024 Reported change Comparable change (1) Q1 2025 Q1 2024 Reported change Comparable change (1) Gucci 3,027 4,085 -26% -25% 1,456 2,006 -27% -25% 1,571 2,079 -24% -25% Yves Saint Laurent 1,288 1,441 -11% -10% 609 701 -13% -10% 679 740 -8% -9% Bottega Veneta 846 836 +1% +2% 441 448 -1% +1% 405 388 +4% +4% Other Houses 1,459 1,717 -15% -14% 726 893 -19% -16% 733 824 -11% -11% Kering Eyewear and Corporate 1,092 1,067 +2% +3% 534 531 +1% +3% 558 536 +4% +3% Eliminations (125) (128) - - (62) (65) - - (63) (63) -- -- KERING 7,587 9,018 -16% -15% 3,704 4,514 -18% -15% 3,883 4,504 -14% -14% (1) Change on a comparable scope and exchange rate basis. MAIN DEFINITIONS "Reported" and "comparable" growth The Group's "reported" growth corresponds to the change in reported revenue between two periods. The Group measures "comparable" growth (also referred to as "organic" growth) in its business by comparing revenue between two periods at constant scope and exchange rates. Changes in scope are dealt with as follows for the periods concerned: the portion of revenue relating to acquired entities is excluded from the current period; the portion relating to entities divested or in the process of being divested is excluded from the previous period. Currency effects are calculated by applying the average exchange rates for the current period to amounts in the previous period. Recurring operating income The Group's operating income includes all revenues and expenses directly related to its activities, whether these revenues and expenses are recurring or arise from non-recurring decisions or transactions. Other non-recurring operating income and expenses consist of items that, by their nature, amount or frequency, could distort the assessment of the Group's operating performance as reflected in its recurring operating income. They include changes in scope, the impairment of goodwill and brands and, where material, of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, capital gains and losses on disposals of non-current assets, restructuring costs and disputes. "Recurring operating income" is therefore an alternative performance indicator for the Group, defined as the difference between operating income and other non-recurring operating income and expenses. This indicator is intended to facilitate the understanding of the operating performance of the Group and its Houses and can therefore be used as a way to estimate recurring performance. It is presented in a manner that is consistent and stable over the long-term in order to ensure the continuity and relevance of financial information. Recurring EBITDA and adjusted recurring EBITDA The Group uses recurring EBITDA as an alternative performance indicator to monitor its operating performance. This financial indicator corresponds to recurring operating income plus net charges to depreciation, amortization and provisions on non-current operating assets recognized in recurring operating income. The Group also uses recurring EBITDA adjusted for IFRS 16 items. This indicator is used to improve comparability when calculating a net debt ratio consisting of the ratio of net debt (excluding lease liabilities) to adjusted recurring EBITDA. Free cash flow from operations, available cash flow from operations and available cash flow The Group uses an intermediate line item, "Free cash flow from operations", to monitor its financial performance. This financial indicator measures net operating cash flow less net operating investments (defined as acquisitions and disposals of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets). The Group has also defined a new indicator, "Available cash flow from operations", in order to take into account capitalized fixed lease payments (repayments of principal and interest) pursuant to IFRS 16, and thereby reflect all of its operating cash flows. "Available cash flow" therefore corresponds to available cash flow from operations plus interest and dividends received, less interest paid and equivalent (excluding leases). Net debt Net debt is one of the Group's main financial indicators, and is defined as borrowings less cash and cash equivalents. Lease liabilities are not included in the calculation of this indicator. Borrowings include put options granted to minority interests. The cost of net debt corresponds to all financial income and expenses associated with these items, including the impact of derivative instruments used to hedge the fair value of borrowings. Effective tax rate on recurring income The effective tax rate on recurring income corresponds to the effective tax rate excluding tax effects relating to other non-recurring operating income and expenses. 1 See Notes 4 and 13 in Chapter 3 of the 2025 first-half report. First half 2025 results: Strong growth in revenue and EBITDA Revenue: 389 million euros, +32% compared to H1 2024 EBITDA: 264 million euros, +49% compared to H1 2024 Confirmation of 2025 objectives Ten LNG carriers and seven Very-Large Ethane Carriers ordered in H1 Acquisition of Danelec, a Danish company specialised in digital solutions Interim dividend: 4 per share, in line with our distribution policy Paris, 29 July 2025. GTT, the technological expert in membrane containment systems used to transport and store liquefied gas, today announces its results for the first half of 2025. Presenting these results, Philippe Berterottiere, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of GTT, said: "GTT delivered a very strong financial performance in the first half of 2025, driven by the numerous orders received in recent years. With 17 orders recorded in the first half of 2025, commercial activity in our core business remains robust, despite an uncertain geopolitical environment. In the United States, the lifting of the moratorium on new LNG projects has reignited investment decisions: three new liquefaction projects have been approved, representing a total capacity of 36 Mtpa and generating additional demand for LNG carriers. We are also continuing our constant R&D and innovation efforts, as evidenced by the recent Approvals in Principle obtained in the first half of the year for solutions compatible with ethane transport and ammonia use. These developments further strengthen our position as a key technological partner supporting the energy transition of the maritime sector. Our digital business experienced sustained momentum, driven by significant contracts with leading players. In addition, the acquisition of the Danish company Danelec, a specialist in the collection and analysis of maritime data, positions GTT as a global leader in vessel performance management and Voyage Data Recorders, creating a new growth pillar for the Group. Backed by a solid order book, we achieved a 32% revenue growth in the first half of 2025. EBITDA rose by 49% at a margin of 68%, highlighting the Group's disciplined cost management. Based on GTT's momentum seen in the first semester and in the absence of significant delays in vessel construction schedules, the Group confirms its full-year 2025 objectives." Group business activity in the first half of 2025 - LNG and Ethane carriers Following a record-breaking 2024 (the second highest year ever in terms of order intake), and in an uncertain geopolitical environment, GTT maintained strong commercial momentum in its core business during the first half of 2025, securing ten orders for LNG carrier and seven orders for Very Large Ethane Carriers (VLEC). Notably, among the ten LNGC orders, six are for ultra-large vessels with a capacity of 271,000 m (significantly larger than the standard 174,000 m) placed with the Chinese shipyard Hudong-Zhonghua. These vessels will be fitted with GTT's NO96 Super+ membrane containment system. Deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2031. The VLECs will each have a total capacity of 100,000 m, the largest ever for this type of vessel, and will feature GTT's Mark III membrane containment system. Deliveries are scheduled in 2027 and 2028. - LNG as fuel: Growth in the LNG-powered container ship market After receiving an order in February from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for the design of cryogenic tanks (12,750 m) for 12 new LNG-powered container ships for a European ship-owner, GTT announced a further order received in the second quarter, placed by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering and concerning the design of cryogenic tanks (8,000 m) for six new LNG-powered container ships on behalf of ship-owner Capital. All of these LNG tanks will be fitted with GTT's Mark III Flex membrane containment system, along with the "1 barg"1 design, which allows an operating pressure of up to 1 barg (compared to 0.7 barg previously). This innovation offers a concrete response to upcoming regulations on cold ironing at quayside, confirming its added value for the maritime industry. - Digital: Commercial success and change of scale with Danelec During the first half of the year, the Group achieved several commercial successes in the digital field. In particular, the TMS group selected Ascenz Marorka's Smart Shipping2 solution to equip its entire fleet of over 130 vessels (oil tankers, bulk carriers, liquefied gas carriers and container ships). China Merchants Energy Shipping (CMES) also chose Ascenz Marorka's digital solutions to equip a series of eight LNG carriers, with deliveries scheduled from late 2025 to mid-2027. These solutions include a full suite of onboard systems, a real-time vessel performance monitoring platform and its associated services, LNG cargo management modules, weather routing and voyage optimisation applications, as well as expert consulting services. In addition, Ascenz Marorka expanded its real-time fleet performance monitoring service to the Americas region, operating out of Vancouver. With operations now spanning three strategic locations, Ascenz Marorka supports ship-owners, charterers and fleet managers in optimising their activities on a global scale. The strong commercial performance is reflected in the gross margin generated by the digital business, which reached 57% for the first semester of 2025 compared with 48% for full year 2024. Finally, in May 2025, GTT announced the acquisition of Danelec, a global leader in the collection and analysis of maritime data. This transaction enables the GTT Group to become the global leader in vessel performance management and positions it among the top players in the critical Voyage Data Recorders (VDR) segment, with a market share covering 15%3 of the global fleet. - Elogen: Refocusing the business model In a press release issued on 10 February 2025, the GTT Group presented the initial conclusions of the strategic review of its subsidiary Elogen. This review was further advanced in the first half of 2025 and it highlighted the need to refocus Elogen's business model on research and development, in order to strengthen the differentiation and competitiveness of its products by improving the solution efficiency and reducing costs. The Group therefore plans to concentrate on the production of high-power stacks at its Les Ulis site, a capability that few players in the market can offer. These developments enable Elogen to target significant positive-margin contracts. The information and consultation procedures with employee representative bodies concluded in July. A workforce reduction plan, involving the elimination of 110 positions out of 160, will be implemented in the second half of the year. It will begin with a voluntary departure phase to minimise forced redundancies. Accordingly, the GTT Group recorded non-current operating expenses of 45 million euros in the first half of 2025 mainly related to the definitive halt of the Gigafactory construction in Vendome and the workforce reduction plan. - Innovation: Technological advancements recognised by classification societies In the first half of 2025, GTT obtained several Approvals in Principle (AiPs) from leading classification societies: Two from Bureau Veritas for its optimised containment systems for ethane transport, Mark III Slim TM and NO96 Slim TM . These approvals confirm major advantages: increased tank capacity, reduced costs and optimised construction time. and NO96 Slim . These approvals confirm major advantages: increased tank capacity, reduced costs and optimised construction time. One from DNV for the design of membrane tanks rated for 1 barg, intended for LNG-powered vessels. This concept provides several benefits to ship-owners: extended retention time, higher bunkering temperature and compliance with the requirements for cold ironing at quayside. One from Lloyd's Register for the "NH3-ready4" rating of the Mark III containment system applicable to LNG-powered vessels as well as LNG carriers (LNGCs), very large ethane carriers (VLECs) and bunkering vessels. This innovation enhances the flexibility of vessels by enabling them to adopt, transport or use ammonia (NH3), a lower-carbon energy alternative, over their lifecycle. - GTT Strategic Ventures: Two new investments to accelerate the maritime energy transition Since the beginning of the year, the GTT Strategic Ventures investment fund has acquired minority stakes in two innovative companies: novoMOF (April): specialising in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), high performance materials for designing point-source CO2 capture systems, which are particularly well-suited to constrained environments such as maritime transportation, thanks to their compactness. CorPower Ocean (July): whose unique wave-energy technology features high resilience to storms and optimised energy efficiency under normal ocean conditions. This solution provides stable electricity generation and addresses the main challenges in renewable marine energy. Order book as of 30 June 2025 As of 1 January 2025, GTT's order book excluding LNG as fuel comprised 332 units. The following developments have occurred since 1 January: Deliveries completed: 36 LNG carriers, 5 onshore storage tanks; Orders received: 10 LNG carriers and 7 ethane carriers. As of 30 June 2025, the order book, excluding LNG as fuel, stood at 308 units, broken down as follows: 280 LNG carriers; 23 ethane carriers; 3 FSRUs (Floating Storage and Regasification Units); 2 FLNGs (Floating Liquefied Natural Gas units). Regarding LNG as fuel, with 18 vessels ordered and 14 delivered during the period, there were 54 vessels in the order book as of 30 June 2025. Evolution of consolidated revenue in the first half of 2025 (in millions of euros) H1 2025 H1 2024 Change Revenue 388.7 294.8 +31.9% Newbuilds 364.8 271.0 +34.6% of which LNG carriers/ethane carriers 345.7 250.7 +37.9% of which FSRUs5/FSUs6 3.3 - N/A of which FLNGs7 4.3 1.4 N/A of which onshore storage tanks and GBSs 0.0 1.7 N/A of which LNG-powered vessels 11.5 17.2 -33.5% Electrolysers 2.5 6.1 -59.1% Digital 9.4 6.9 +35.9% Services 12.0 10.8 +10.8% Consolidated revenue for the first half of 2025 amounted to 389 million euros, up 32% compared to the first half of 2024. Revenue from newbuilds amounted to 365 million euros, up 35% compared to the first half of 2024. Royalties from LNG and ethane carriers amounted to 346 million euros, up 38%, driven by the growing number of LNG carriers under construction. Royalties from FLNGs amounted to 4 million euros while those from FSRUs amounted to 3 million euros. Revenue from LNG as fuel business totalled 11 million euros, down from 2024, due to a high comparison base, with 20 LNG-powered vessels delivered in H1 2024. The electrolysers business generated revenue of 2.5 million euros, versus 6 million euros in the first half of 2024. The digital business grew sharply to 9 million euros, an increase of 36%, supported by equipment sales and increased subscriptions for digital solutions. Services generated 12 million euros in revenue, an increase of 11% compared to H1 2024, notably driven by support services for vessels in operation and certification activities. Analysis of the consolidated income statement for the first half of 2025 Summary consolidated income statement (in millions of euros, excluding earnings per share) H1 2025 H1 2024 Change Revenue 388.7 294.8 +31.9% Operating income before depreciation, amortisation and impairment of non-current assets (EBITDA) 264.5 177.2 +49.2% EBITDA margin (on revenue, %) 68.0% 60.1% Operating income (EBIT) 257.1 172.2 +49.3% EBIT margin (on revenue, %) 66.1% 58.4% Non-current operating income and expenses -48.2 21.0 Net income 180.0 170.3 +5.7% Net margin (on revenue, %) 46.2% 57.8% Basic net earnings per share8 (in euros) 4.86 4.61 EBITDA (operating income before depreciation, amortisation and impairment of non-current assets) reached 264 million euros in the first half of 2025, up 49% compared to the first half of 2024. The EBITDA margin stood at 68%, compared to 60% a year earlier, driven by revenue growth and effective cost control. Operating income (EBIT) amounted to 257 million euros, up 49% from the 172 million euros recorded in H1 2024. Net income amounted to 180 million euros in the first half of 2025, up 6% from 170 million euros a year earlier. It was impacted by non-current operating expenses mainly related to the restructuring of Elogen, notably in connection with the definitive halt of the Gigafactory construction in Vendome and the workforce reduction plan. Other consolidated financial data (in millions of euros) H1 2025 H1 2024 Capital expenditure (including acquisitions of non-current assets) (25.4) (33.4) Dividends paid (142.0) (93.0) Net cash position 360.0 303.1 Cash change (vs. end-December) +16.7 +35.5 Capital expenditure amounted to 25 million euros in the first half of 2025, compared with 33 million euros last year. This includes, in particular, building refurbishment at GTT's headquarters and minority investments made through the GTT Strategic Ventures investment fund. As at 30 June 2025, the Group's net cash position stood at 360 million euros. Interim dividend On 29 July 2025, the Board of Directors approved the payment of an interim dividend of 4 euros per share for the 2025 financial year. The dividend will be paid in cash according to the following schedule: 9 December 2025: ex-dividend date; 11 December 2025: payment date. 2025 objectives confirmed As of 30 June 2025, the Group benefits from very high visibility on its revenue, supported by its core business order book. This corresponds to revenue of 1,698 million euros over the 2025-2028 period and beyond, broken down as follows: 349 million euros in H2 2025, 602 million euros in 2026, 430 million euros in 2027 and 317 million euros in 2028 and beyond. In the absence of significant delays or cancellations, GTT confirms its objectives for the financial year 2025, excluding the contribution of Danelec9: 2025 consolidated revenue of between 750 million euros and 800 million euros, 2025 consolidated EBITDA between 490 million euros and 540 million euros, a 2025 dividend payout target corresponding to a minimum payout of 80% of consolidated net income10. First half 2025 results presentation Philippe Berterottiere, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Thierry Hochoa, Chief Financial Officer, will present GTT's first half 2025 financial results and answer questions from the financial community at a conference call to be held, in English, on Wednesday 30 July 2025, at 8.30 a.m., Paris time. This conference will be broadcast live on GTT's website. To join the conference call, please dial one of the following numbers five to ten minutes before the start of the conference: France: + 33 1 70 91 87 04 UK: +44 1 212 818 004 USA: +1 718 705 87 96 Confirmation code: 140215 The presentation document will be available on the website on 30 July 2025 from 8:30 a.m, Paris time. Financial calendar 2025 third-quarter activity update: 31 October 2025 (after close of trading) 2025 annual results: 19 February 2026 (after close of trading) 2026 first-quarter activity update: 22 April 22 2026 (after close of trading) About GTT GTT is a technology and engineering group with expertise in the design and development of cryogenic membrane containment systems for use in the transport and storage of liquefied gases. Over the past 60 years, the GTT Group has designed and developed, to the highest standards of excellence, some of the most innovative technologies used in LNG carriers, floating terminals, onshore storage tanks and multi-gas carriers. As part of its commitment to building a sustainable world, GTT develops new solutions designed to support ship-owners and energy providers in their journey towards a decarbonised future. As such, the Group offers systems designed to enable commercial vessels to use LNG as fuel, develops cutting-edge digital solutions to enhance vessels' economic and environmental performance, and actively pursues innovation in the field of low-carbon solutions. GTT is listed on Euronext Paris, Compartment A (ISIN FR0011726835 Euronext Paris: GTT) and is notably included in the CAC Next 20, SBF 120, Stoxx Europe 600 and MSCI Small Cap indices. Investor Relations Contact: information-financiere@gtt.fr / +33 1 30 23 20 87 Press Contact: press@gtt.fr / +33 1 30 23 48 45 For more information, visit www.gtt.fr. Important notice The figures presented here are those customarily used and communicated to the markets by GTT. This message includes forward-looking information and statements. Such statements include financial projections and estimates, the assumptions on which they are based, as well as statements about projects, objectives and expectations regarding future operations, profits or services, or future performance. Although GTT management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable, investors and GTT shareholders should be aware that such forward-looking information and statements are subject to many risks and uncertainties that are generally difficult to predict and beyond the control of GTT, and may cause results and developments to differ significantly from those expressed, implied or predicted in the forward-looking statements or information. Such risks include those explained or identified in the public documents filed by GTT with the French Financial Markets Authority (AMF - Autorite des Marches Financiers), including those listed in the "Risk Factors" section of the GTT Registration Document filed with the AMF on April 25, 2025, and the half-year financial report released today. Investors and GTT shareholders should note that if some or all of these risks are realised they may have a significant unfavourable impact on GTT. Notes (IFRS consolidated financial statements) Note 1: Consolidated statement of financial position (in thousands of euros) 06/30/2025 12/31/2024 Intangible assets 41,216 37,336 Goodwill 18,966 18,966 Property, plant and equipment 58,996 56,466 Investments in equity-accounted companies 9,973 10,405 Non-current financial assets 10,896 8,236 Deferred tax assets 4,203 5,157 Non-current assets 144,249 136,566 Inventories 22,939 29,790 Trade receivables 214,251 186,020 Current tax receivable 87,784 82,707 Other current assets 24,685 35,990 Current financial assets 406 390 Cash and cash equivalents 360,040 343,328 Current assets 710,104 678,224 TOTAL ASSETS 854,353 814,789 (in thousands of euros) 06/30/2025 12/31/2024 Share capital 371 371 Share premium 6,853 6,853 Treasury shares (4,550) (7,418) Reserves 317,654 113,826 Net income 179,961 347,760 Equity attributable to owners of the parent 500,289 461,392 Equity - share attributable to non-controlling interests 70 75 Total equity 500,359 461,467 Non-current provisions 3,685 6,210 Financial liabilities - non-current part 13,329 13,840 Deferred tax liabilities 1,091 1,154 Non-current liabilities 18,105 21,204 Current provisions 14,680 4,486 Trade payables 40,125 44,558 Advance payments of subsidies 1,479 1,479 Current tax debts 13,818 9,782 Current financial liabilities 2,159 2,142 Other current liabilities 263,629 269,671 Current liabilities 335,889 332,118 TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 854,353 814,789 Note 2: Consolidated income statement (in thousands of euros) 06/30/2025 06/30/2024 Revenue from operating activities 388,692 294,780 Other operating income 122 471 Total operating income 388,814 295,251 Costs of sales (7,836) (11,871) External expenses (49,583) (51,027) Personnel expenses (64,570) (58,848) Tax and duties (2,943) (2,117) Depreciation and provisions (9,803) (3,535) Other current operating income and expenses 2,984 4,349 Current operating income (EBIT) 257,063 172,202 EBIT margin on revenue (%) 66.1% 58.4% Non-current operating income and expenses (48,169) 21,000 Current and non-current operating income 208,894 193,202 Financial income 6,809 5,551 Share in the income of associated entities (361) (182) Profit (loss) before tax 215,342 198,571 Income tax (35,386) (28,266) Net income 179,957 170,306 Basic earnings per share (in euros) 4.86 4.61 Note 3: Consolidated cash-flows (in thousands of euros) 06/30/2025 06/30/2024 Company profit for the year 179,957 170,306 Elimination of income and expenses with no cash impact: Share of net income of equity-accounted companies 361 182 Allocation (reversal) of amortisation, depreciation, provisions and impairment 39,669 4,085 Net carrying amount of intangible assets or property, plant and equipment sold - - Financial expense (income) (6,809) (5,551) Tax expense (income) for the financial year 35,386 28,266 Payment in shares 3,368 1,503 Other operating income and expenses (140) - Cash flow 251,790 198,790 Tax paid in the financial year (41,489) (36,686) Change in working capital requirement: - Inventories and work in progress 6,851 (6,736) - Trade and other receivables (28,231) (17,342) - Trade and other payables (4,121) 2,836 - Other operating assets and liabilities (5,166) 4,392 Net cash-flow generated by the business (Total I) 184,735 145,254 Investment operations Acquisition of non-current assets (22,874) (26,479) Investment subsidy - 16,000 Disposal of non-current assets - - Control acquired on subsidiaries net of cash and cash equivalents acquired - (20,622) Control lost on subsidiaries net of cash and cash equivalents sold - - Financial investments (2,556) (2,266) Disposal of financial assets - - Treasury shares (8) (72) Change in other fixed financial assets 40 Net cash-flow from investment operations (Total II) (25,438) (33,400) Financing operations Dividends paid to shareholders (141,956) (92,996) Capital increase - 4,383 Repayment of financial liabilities (1,511) (1,670) Increase of financial liabilities - 8,362 Interest paid (73) (308) Interest received 6,353 5,944 Change in bank overdrafts - - Net cash-flow from financing operations (Total III) (137,187) (76,284) Effect of changes in currency prices (Total IV) (298) (36) Change in cash (I+II+III+IV) 16,712 35,534 Opening cash 343,328 267,529 Closing cash 360,040 303,063 Cash change 16,712 35,534 Appendix 4: Estimated 10-year order book In units Order estimates(1) LNG carriers More than 450 Ethane carriers 25-40 FSRUs =10 FLNGs =10 Onshore storage tanks and GBSs 25-30 (1) 2025-2034 period. The Company points out that the number of new orders may see large-scale variations from one quarter to another and even from one year to another, without the fundamentals on which its business model is based being called into question. 1 Unit of measurement, abbreviation of "bar gauge". 2 Smart Shipping refers to a set of navigation, operational ship management, predictive maintenance, on-board energy management and fleet management services for charterers, ship-owners and operators. 3 Danelec's market share in the Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) segment stands at 15% of the total installed base, including c. 30% of annual retrofits (source: Arkwright). 4 Compatible with ammonia. 5 Floating Storage Regasification Units. 6 Floating Storage Units. 7 Floating Liquefied Natural Gas vessels. 8 For the first half of 2025, earnings per share were calculated on the basis of the weighted average number of shares outstanding (excluding treasury shares), i.e. 37,035,825 shares. 9 Whose acquisition has not been finalised. 10 Subject to approval by the Shareholders' Meeting and the amount of distributable net income in the GTT S.A. corporate financial statements. Dallas, Texas & London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Today, leading US-based experience consultancy, geniant, has announced its acquisition of NewTerritory, an award-winning UK-based design and brand experience studio founded by former Head of Design for Virgin Atlantic and LG Europe. The London-based team has gained international recognition through multi-sector, visionary projects for clients that include Delta Air Lines, Mercedes-Benz AG, Airbus and Coca-Cola. This move accelerates geniant's global growth strategy while directly addressing a fundamental need in business transformation - the ability to look across all interconnected customer and employee touchpoints, identify the moments that matter most, and then design and deliver next-generation experiences. "As more companies accept that the quality of their customer and employee experiences are key to marketplace success, the real challenge becomes identifying which moments to optimize first - and understanding why they matter," said David Lancashire, geniant's Chairman & Co-CEO. "NewTerritory's expertise in uncovering and shaping those Signature Moments that leave a lasting impression is a powerful addition to geniant's capabilities, strengthening our ability to guide companies toward what truly drives loyalty and impact." Commenting on the deal announcement, Luke Miles, Founder of NewTerritory, said: "Organizations face growing pressure to create distinctive, memorable experiences but often turn to partners unable to deliver at the intersection of creative vision, strategic insights and AI. What drew us to geniant was not just their mastery of these critical capabilities, but a shared belief that the current approach is broken, and that together we can help reimagine better workflows and experiences and actually bring them to life." geniant helps organizations see the big picture, bringing deep insight into customer needs together with a detailed understanding of internal workflows, through its integrated 'Insights, Experiences and AI-First' approach, delivering next-generation experiences. Insights: Proprietary research and analytics pinpoint critical moments that genuinely matter to customers and employees. Proprietary research and analytics pinpoint critical moments that genuinely matter to customers and employees. Experiences: Elevating these moments into unified journeys across digital products, physical environments, and human interactions. Elevating these moments into unified journeys across digital products, physical environments, and human interactions. AI-First: Guiding enterprises through IT modernization by embedding AI at the heart of products, workflows, and decision-making. Prove value quickly with targeted "lighthouse" projects that build momentum. Prioritize AI investments in alignment with clear business goals to achieve measurable results. Build an adaptive technology foundation that empowers leaders across the enterprise to launch new offerings, streamline operations, and scale with confidence. Guiding enterprises through IT modernization by embedding AI at the heart of products, workflows, and decision-making. This cohesive approach enables brands to break free from the "experience echo chamber" and foster authentic, lasting customer and employee loyalty. -ENDS- For high resolution copies of these images, please get in touch with the PR contact above: geniant, Chicago Studio To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11808/260473_54d2d176b4754842_001full.jpg New Territory, London Studio To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11808/260473_54d2d176b4754842_002full.jpg Luke Miles, Founder of NewTerritory To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11808/260473_54d2d176b4754842_003full.jpg About NewTerritory NewTerritory is a brand experience studio with capabilities spanning visioning, experience design, and communication. Based in London, the team, guided by data-driven insight, crafts seamless end-to-end experiences that build advocacy and deliver long-term value for brands. Founded by former head of design at Virgin Atlantic, Luke Miles, the studio is recognized for delivering game-changing brands and products within the travel, hospitality, and infrastructure industries. Visit www.newterritory.io to find out more. About geniant geniant is an experience consultancy helping organizations transform by uniting insights, customer and employee experiences, and AI-first technology. With a proven track record across diverse industries, geniant partners with enterprises to reimagine every touchpoint to deliver measurable business impact. Visit www.geniant.com to learn more. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260473 SOURCE: Geniant DUBAI, UAE, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA), a flagship non-profit founded by Bybit and championing responsible innovation, took center stage at the 20th anniversary of the United Nations Internet Governance Forum (UN IGF) in Oslo. In collaboration with the Singapore Internet Governance Forum (SGIGF), BGA co-hosted an exclusive, high-level dinner titled "Bridging the Future: Blockchain, Governance & Global Cooperation" at Oslo's historic Akershus Fortress. Held as an official side event supported by the UN IGF Secretariat, the dinner brought together global leaders from governments, multilateral organizations, blockchain, and AI to promote dialogue around inclusive, ethical, and interoperable digital infrastructure. The event was led by Glenn Tan, Director of Global Affairs at BGA, and co-organized with SGIGF's Founding Members Henry Wang and Una Wang. Distinguished guests included His Excellency Dharambeer Gokhool, President of Mauritius; National Deputy of Argentina Pamela Calletti; Senator Kenneth Pugh of Chile; as well as representatives from various UN agencies and national parliaments. Central to the evening's discussion was blockchain's transformative role in shaping a trusted and collaborative global digital ecosystem. "As we stand at the crossroads of a digital future, Mauritius reaffirms its commitment to an ethical, inclusive, and rights-based digital governance model. Events like the IGF 2025 remind us that trust, collaboration, and shared values must be the cornerstones of our collective journey in the age of AI and emerging technologies. The IGF 2025 was not just a conference - it was a collective call to conscience," said His Excellency the President of the Republic of Mauritius, Dharambeer Gokhool. BGA's Glenn Tan emphasized the urgency of forward-looking infrastructure: "As blockchain transitions from hype cycles to hard infrastructure across the internet, we must ensure that systems built today serve the collective good of tomorrow. This gathering was a symbol of that shared commitment to a multistakeholder future, rooted in both trust and innovation." Adding a regional perspective, SGIGF Founding Member Henry Wang noted: "As the UN IGF celebrates 20 years of shaping global internet governance, this dinner was a timely reminder that the next 20 must be co-created across sectors, systems, and sovereignties. Blockchain, when aligned with responsible governance and AI ethics, can become the connective tissue of a truly inclusive, decentralized, and intelligent internet." The evening reaffirmed BGA's mission to advance cross-border collaboration and responsible digital transformation. These conversations will continue at the inaugural Singapore IGF Conference on October 1, 2025, where regional stakeholders will lead the global dialogue on inclusive and resilient internet governance. Bybit / TheCryptoArk / BGA About Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA) The Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA) is a long-term collaborative non-profit initiative with key partners with the main aim to contribute to societal good by using blockchain technology to solve real world problems. By convening leaders, innovators, and organisations from across the blockchain community, BGA seeks to drive innovation, collaboration, and action towards a more sustainable and equitable world. For more information Email: hello@chainforgood.org Website: www.chainforgood.org Twitter: www.x.com/chainforgood Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2740170/image.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2386817/Blockchain_For_Good_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/blockchain-for-good-alliance-leads-global-digital-cooperation-at-un-igf-2025-302516341.html 2024-25 ANNUAL RESULTS: CONTINUED TRANSFORMATION AND IMPROVEMENT IN CURRENT OPERATING PROFITABILITY The Board of Directors met today and approved the annual and consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025. Key Highlights of the fiscal Year During the 2024-25 fiscal year, GECI International (the "Company") successfully pusued its strategic transformation, focusing its efforts on two high-potential areas: High-Performance Computing (HPC) and digital simulation in France, driven by its subsidiary AS+, Smart City and telecom solutions in Brazil, through AS+ Do Brasil, a subsidiary of the Eolen Group, a well-established brand in the region. At the same time, Eolen's operations in France, historically recognized for IT outsourcing, infra-production, and financial IT services, were relaunched under the impetus of new teams, with an expanded offering now covering data analysis, DevOps, cybersecurity, and 24/7 support services. These activities, now consolidated under Eolen France, aim to strengthen the profitable growth momentum of the Digital division. Despite the deconsolidation of telecom activities in France as of March 1, 2024, revenue on a like-for-like basis and at constant exchange rates declined by only 4.3%, underscoring both the resilience of the Group's strategic repositioning and the enduring value of the Eolen brand, which remains active internationally, as well as in France. In addition, the Group improved its current operating profitability, supported by strict cost discipline and a focus on its most value-creating businesses. It should be noted that FY 2023-24 included 2.4 million in non-recurring income, related to the sale of the telecom engineering business in France (1.7 million) and a favorable appeal ruling in the litigation with the seller of Groupe Eolen (0.7 million). Results The Group's full-year revenues at March 31, 2025 came to 18.2m1, with a balanced breakdown between Digital (51.8%) and Technology (48.2%). International operations accounted for 48.2% of total revenue, confirming the Group's solid growth momentum outside France. Current operating income (COI) improved to -0.5 million, compared with -0.6 million in the previous year, driven by a stronger gross margin and reduced general and administrative expenses. Breakdown by business segment: Digital: COI improved by 0.2 million, supported by strong momentum in HPC, new client accreditations, and improved operational efficiency. Technology: COI rose by 25% to 0.5 million, driven by the excellent performance of AS+ Do Brasil. m 2024-25 2023-24 Digital Technology Holding March-25 Digital Technology Holding March-43 Revenue 9.2 9.0 18.2 10.5 12.3 22.7 Current Operating Income (0.4) 0.5 (0.6) (0.5) (0.6) 0.4 (0.4) (0.6) % of revenues (4.1)% 5.8% - (2.7)% (5.7)% 2.9% - (2.8)% Operating income as of March 31, 2025 came to -0.3 million. The Group's net income came to -0.9 million, versus -1.3 million excluding non-recurring items2 a year earlier. This change reflects a 0.2 million increase in financial expenses, primarily related to bond issues in April 2024 and February 2025, partially offset by a 0.1 million decrease in tax expense. Consolidated financials m 2024-25 2023-24 Change (12 months) (12 months) m % Revenue 18.2 22.7 - 4.5 - 19.8% Current operating income (0.5) (0.6) + 0.1 + 22.7% Operating income (0.3) 1.7 - 2.0 - 116.8% Pre-tax current income (0.6) 1.6 - 2.2 - 141.3% Consolidated net income (0.8) 1.2 - 2.1 - 167.9% Net income (Groupe Share) (0.9) 1.1 - 1.9 - 182.4% Shareholder's equity (Group share) 4.9 7.0 - 2.1 - 30 % Net financial debt 2.5 0.9 + 1.5 + 163 % Financial position As at 31 March 2025, Shareholder's equity (Group share) totaled 4.9 million, compared with 7.0 million the previous year. This change mainly reflects the net result for the year (-0.9 million), changes in the scope of consolidation (-2.1 million) and capital increases related to the exercise of 84.1% of BSA 1 warrants issued as part of the April 4, 2024 bond issue (+1.45 million3 gross). The Group's gross financial debt was down 9.6% to 3.2 million, compared with 3.5m at the end of March 2024. It includes financial debt amounting to 0.53 million (including overdrafts), factoring advances of 0.82 million, net proceeds from simple bonds with attached warrants (OBSA 1 & 2) of 1.68 million, and lease liabilities of 0.16 million. After taking into account available cash of 0.72 million, net financial debt stands at 2.5 million, or 51% of equity. 2025-26 outlook: acceleration in high-growth markets GECI International begins the new fiscal year with stronger fundamentals, a clear strategic roadmap, and solid growth drivers in high-potential markets: HPC, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud, Cybersecurity, and Smart Cities. In France, AS+ is now recognized for its HPC expertise and digital simulation know-how, with a prestigious client base (CEA, TotalEnergies, Safran, EDF, etc.) and a service offering structured around three core areas (IT architecture audits, AI-driven process optimization, premium data centre maintenance). Double-digit growth is expected for 2025-26, driven by expansion into new verticals (banking and insurance), as well as by international expansion, with the opening of a Brussels office to address the Benelux markets (Luxembourg, Belgium and the Netherlands). Eolen France is redeploying with new offerings (IT outsourcing, infrastructure operations, data analysis, DevOps, cybersecurity), supported by targeted recruitment and a service-oriented strategy, including a comprehensive range of solutions (technical assistance, fixed-price projects, and a 24/7 bilingual service center), driving renewed growth with long-standing clients. In Brazil, AS+ Do Brasil is expected to record double-digit growth, thanks to contract renewals, service extension into maintenance, and recognition from top-tier clients, including being named Best Supplier in South America. The rationalization program launched in FY 2024-25 is expected to yield full benefits in FY 2025-26, contributing to improved operational efficiency. In line with its vision for responsible growth, GECI International places innovation, performance, and sustainability at the heart of its strategy to meet the technological, economic, societal, and environmental challenges of the future. Additional Information Audit procedures on the corporate and consolidated accounts have been carried out by the statutory auditors. The certification reports will be issued upon completion of the procedures required for the publication of the annual financial report. Next date Publication of the 2024-25 annual financial report on July 31, 2025 after close of trading ABOUT GECI INTERNATIONAL __________ "Smart Solutions for a Smart World" GECI International is a key player in the fields of Digital and Technology. Since 1980, the Group has been committed to designing and delivering smart, high-value-added solutions for the Research, Industry, and Services sectors. Present in Europe and Brazil, and backed by a team of over 500 highly skilled professionals, GECI International operates in High-Performance Computing (HPC), Smart Cities, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, and other emerging technologies. The Group's model is based on recognized expertise, tailor-made offerings, and a robust ecosystem of strategic partners. GECI International is listed on Euronext Growth Paris. ISIN: FR001400M1R1 - - Ticker: ALGEC. CONTACTS __________ GECI International - Investors Relations Tel: +33 (0)1 46 12 00 00 / relation.investisseurs@geci.net ACTUS Finance & Communication - Cyril Combe Tel: +33 (0)1 01 53 67 36 36 / geci@actus.fr 1 Adjusted following the reporting of financial data from the subsidiaries. Compared to the revenue figure published on May 15, 2025, revenue was notably adjusted for the Digital division by +0.1 million (i.e., 9.122 million versus 9.16 million). Revenue from Brazil, totaling 8.78 million, reflects a negative currency effect representing 6% of total revenue. Using the same exchange rate as in the previous fiscal year, revenue from Brazil would have amounted to 9.88 million. 2 Excluding non-recurring income totaling 2.4 million, related to the sale of the telecom engineering business in France (1.7 million) and a favorable appeal ruling in the litigation with the seller of Groupe Eolen (0.7 million). 3 Exercise of 435,262 BSA 1 warrants resulting in the creation of 435,262 shares. ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: ypmfZZWbaGaVlnFqlcqWnJSXaWtqlpKXbJXGxGeZZZ6ZnZ1lmWlom8WYZnJkmGlo - Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com. ------------------------ Copyright Actusnews Wire Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-93342-geci_cp-resultats-24_25_29072025_ve-finale.pdf Bethesda, Maryland--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Mblue Labs, the biotech company behind the science-driven skincare brand Bluelene has been granted a U.S. Patent for its discovery of Methylene Blue as a multifunctional UV blocking agent that not only protects skin from sun radiation, but also delays skin aging and promotes DNA damage repair. This milestone stems from research that began in 2020, supported by a small business STTR grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), with the goal to develop a safer, more effective alternative to conventional chemical UV filters like Oxybenzone. Oxybenzone and its derivatives are found in over 70% of today's sunscreens yet are increasingly banned due to their potential human health risks and environmental harms, especially to marine ecosystems. The researchers at Mblue Labs discovered that Methylene Blue, a century old medicine, offers broad-spectrum UV irradiation protection against UVA and UVB rays, neutralizes ROS (Free Radicals), and repairs UV irradiation induced DNA damages, while being safe for coral reefs. Their paper, "Ultraviolet radiation protection potentials of Methylene Blue for human skin and coral reef health " was published in Nature's Scientific Reports. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-89970-2. "This patent validates our commitment to redefining sun care with smart, effective, and planet- safe science," says Dr. Kan Cao, Professor at the University of Maryland and Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Mblue Labs. "Our formula goes beyond surface protection to address the molecular triggers of skin health and aging." In 2022, Mblue Labs launched "Bluevado SunFix", its first anti-aging sunscreen combining FDA-approved physical filters, Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, with an optimized dosage of Methylene Blue. Bluevado SunFix has garnered a loyal, worldwide following of consumers who seek a sustainable, science-based suncare product with exceptional efficacy. "Our Vision for this novel multifunction sunscreen was deeply rooted in our concern for coral reefs and the skin health of our customers. Bluevado SunFix has been delivering superb broad spectrum UVB/UVA protection and post sun repair, as well as the full anti-aging benefits of our Bluelene Moisturizer with the same cosmetic elegance," says Jasmin EL Kordi, CEO Mblue Labs. This patent adds to the company's IP, which includes the patent for Methylene Blue used topically on human skin to treat age-related symptoms This milestone further positions Bluelene as a leader in science-based skincare and a champion of environmentally responsible innovation. The company is now actively pursuing regulatory pathways to get Methylene Blue included in the FDA sunscreen monograph, enabling broader access to its skin- and planet-friendly benefits. About Mblue Labs + Bluelene MBlue Labs provides revolutionary anti-aging technology to consumers around the world. The company's clinical skincare brand Bluelene uses patented ingredient Methylene Blue to repair and protect skin on the mitochondrial level, in the only optimized and trusted concentration on the market. Mblue Labs' research demonstrates Methylene Blue as the new retinol challenger for anti-aging treatments. For more about Dr. Cao's groundbreaking research, see the recently published cover story "The Age of Skin". This research was supported by a National Science Foundation (NSF) Small Business Technology Transfer Grant (Grant: 1842745). This press release does not necessarily represent the views of the NSF. The research for this invention was conducted jointly by researchers at Mblue Labs and the University of Maryland. For media inquiries or product information, contact: More at: bluelene.com and @getbluelene on social To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260319 SOURCE: Pinion Partners Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Algonquin Capital today announced a change in the principal office of Algonquin Fixed Income 2.0 Fund (the "Fund") and Algonquin Capital Corporation (the "Manager"). Effective August 1, 2025, the principal office of the Fund and the Manager is located at 161 Bay Street, Suite 1230, Toronto, Ontario, M5J 2S1. Investors may contact the Manager by calling toll free at 1-833-306-8404, on the Manager's website at www.algonquincap.com or by writing to the Manager at 161 Bay Street, Suite 1230, Toronto, Ontario, M5J 2S1. About Algonquin Capital Corporation Algonquin Capital Corporation ("Algonquin") is a boutique Canadian fixed income investment manager. Algonquin was founded in 2014 and offers fixed income strategies focused on capital preservation while producing strong risk-adjusted returns. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260521 SOURCE: Algonquin Capital Chinese talent show held at Botswana English-medium school Xinhua) 13:57, July 29, 2025 A student performs during a Chinese talent show at the Legae English Medium School in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, July 28, 2025. A Chinese talent show was held here on Monday to provide students with a platform to explore Chinese culture and deepen cross-cultural understanding through diverse performances. (Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua) GABORONE, July 28 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese talent show was held at an English-medium school here on Monday to provide students with a platform to explore Chinese culture and deepen cross-cultural understanding through diverse performances. Themed "Inheriting Chinese Culture, Showcasing Youthful Talents," the event took place at the Legae English Medium School in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana. School Principal Naseema Karodia described the show as a celebration of language, culture, creativity, and confidence. "Today is not just about performances. It's about embracing diversity, learning from each other, and challenging ourselves through Chinese songs, dances, stories, and poetry," she said. The students not only showcased their talents but also demonstrated how language can build bridges between cultures, she added. The competition featured 20 contestants in 15 groups, who captivated the audience with performances ranging from Chinese songs and dances to martial arts, poetry, and paper-cutting. All participants received awards and certificates in recognition of their efforts. The event was attended by guests from the Chinese Embassy in Botswana and the Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana. Since 2018, the Legae English Medium School has included Chinese as part of its full-time language program, known as Confucius Classes, for students from Standard Three to Standard Six. A student performs during a Chinese talent show at the Legae English Medium School in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, July 28, 2025. A Chinese talent show was held here on Monday to provide students with a platform to explore Chinese culture and deepen cross-cultural understanding through diverse performances. (Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua) A student performs during a Chinese talent show at the Legae English Medium School in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, July 28, 2025. A Chinese talent show was held here on Monday to provide students with a platform to explore Chinese culture and deepen cross-cultural understanding through diverse performances. (Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) LONDON, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Dividend Announcement: On 29 July 2025, the Board of Directors of Tetragon declared a dividend of U.S.$ 0.11 (11.00 cents) per share in respect of the second quarter of 2025. The ex-dividend date is 1 August 2025. The record date is 4 August 2025. Payment of the dividend will take place from 28 August 2025. Tetragon's website (www.tetragoninv.com) includes information on Tetragon's Optional Stock Dividend Plan for those shareholders electing to receive dividends in the form of Tetragon shares. Shareholders may elect to receive dividends in the form of Tetragon shares by making a dividend share election up to 14 August 2025. If no election is made, the dividend will be paid in cash from 28 August 2025. Cash dividends may be received in Sterling by those shareholders making a dividend currency election up to 14 August 2025. If no election is made, the dividend will be paid in U.S. dollars from 28 August 2025. About Tetragon: Tetragon is a Guernsey closed-ended investment company. Its non-voting shares are listed on Euronext in Amsterdam, a regulated market of Euronext Amsterdam N.V., and also traded on the Specialist Fund Segment of the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange. Our investment manager is Tetragon Financial Management LP. Find out more at www.tetragoninv.com. Tetragon's non-voting shares are subject to restrictions on ownership by U.S. persons and are not intended for European retail investors. Please see: https://www.tetragoninv.com/shareholders/additional-information. Tetragon Investor Relations: Yuko Thomas ir@tetragoninv.com Press Inquiries: Prosek Partners pro-tetragon@prosek.com U.K. +44 20 3890 9193 U.S. +1 212 279 3115 This release contains inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation (2014/596/EU), or EU MAR, and of the UK version of EU MAR as it forms part of UK law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act (as amended). This release does not contain or constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction. The securities of Tetragon have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons unless they are registered under applicable law or exempt from registration. Tetragon does not intend to register any portion of its securities in the United States or to conduct a public offer of securities in the United States. In addition, Tetragon has not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and investors will not be entitled to the benefits of such Act. Tetragon is registered in the public register of the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (Autoriteit Financiele Markten) under Section 1:107 of the Dutch Financial Markets Supervision Act as an alternative investment fund from a designated state. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/tetragon-financial-group-limited-announcement-of-dividend-302516372.html London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Projectsdeal.co.uk, founded in 2001, has been ranked No.1 for delivering high-quality, plagiarism-free dissertations tailored to nursing students. Trusted by thousands, Projectsdeal boasts five-star reviews across all major platforms and a proven track record of academic excellence. With expert UK-based writers, strict adherence to NHS and NMC guidelines, and guaranteed on-time delivery, Projectsdeal remains the top choice for nursing students aiming for success. Best Nursing Dissertation Writing Service in The UK for 2025 Recognised as the Best Nursing Dissertation Writing Service UK 2025, Projectsdeal has expanded its operations with a new office at Upper Bank Street, Canary Wharf, London, to meet rising demand. With a growing team of 600+ expert research writers and support staff, the company continues to deliver top-quality, NHS-aligned dissertations for nursing students. Trusted since 2001, Projectsdeal.co.uk remains the first choice for academic excellence in nursing. Celebrated as the Best Nursing Dissertation Writing Service in the UK for 2025, Projectsdeal continues to raise the bar for academic excellence. Reflecting on this recognition, the company reaffirmed its dedication to delivering customised, high-quality dissertation support for nursing students nationwide. The recent launch of its new office in Canary Wharf, London, highlights Projectsdeal's ongoing commitment to innovation and accessibility, ensuring even broader support for students across the UK. Named the Best Nursing Dissertation Writing Service UK 2025, Projectsdeal.co.uk continues to set the benchmark for academic excellence. With a highly qualified team holding advanced degrees across nursing, law, management, and more, the company delivers thoroughly researched, plagiarism-free work, verified via Turnitin and written without AI assistance. Responding to growing global demand, particularly in nursing. Projectsdeal recently expanded its operations with a new office in Canary Wharf, London, reinforcing its dedication to supporting students and professionals worldwide with top-tier academic writing. Visit projectsdeal.co.uk to explore the full range of services. About Projectsdeal.co.uk With a legacy of excellence since 2001, Projectsdeal has solidified its reputation as the Best Nursing Dissertation Writing Service UK 2025. Backed by a proven track record and a team of expert nursing dissertation writers, Projectsdeal.co.uk consistently delivers high-quality, confidential, and ethically written academic work tailored to meet strict academic standards. The company remains the go-to choice for nursing students seeking trusted and professional support across the UK. SOURCE: Projectsdeal To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260519 SOURCE: United Press Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Daura Gold Corp. (TSXV: DGC) (the "Company" or "Daura") is pleased to announce that, further to its news release dated June 2, 2025, it has completed the acquisition Yanamina gold-silver project (the "Yanamina Project") from EVR Resources Limited ("EVR"). The Yanamina Project is located in the Ancash Department of central Peru, 40km north of the Daura's Antonella and Highlander Silver's bonanza grade San Luis gold-silver project. Highlights The Yanamina Project has a historic mineral resource of 83,100 (oz) of gold (Au) at 1.65 g/t Au indicated and 123,700 oz of Au at 1.19 g/t Au inferred. The Company plans to undertake work to verify and update the historical estimate as a priority. (See " Yanamina Historical Mineral Resource " below for further details.) Exploration upside and multiple drill targets on the property given limited and focused historical drilling. Open extensions to resources at depth and lateral extensions and significant faulted extension target at depth. Previous drilling identified a high-grade core zone locally grading at 5 g/t Au over 5 meters within a mineralized envelope averaging 2.5 g/t Au over intervals from 20-30 meters. Daura has the opportunity to update the Yanamina historical resource estimate and bring a current resource estimate into Daura's resource profile. Yanamina compliments Daura's project portfolio in the Ancash Department, which is well-known for mining in Peru with major historical production from Barrick's Pierina gold mine, approximately 40km north of the bonanza grade San Luis Gold Project owned by Highlander Silver. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as a current mineral resource and the Company is not treating the historical estimate as a current mineral resource. Luis Saenz, Daura CEO commented: "Closing the acquisition of the Yanamina Gold-Silver Project is a significant step for Daura Gold as we advance our strategy of building a high-quality portfolio in Peru's most prolific mining districts. Yanamina not only adds an established historical resource to our asset base but also offers near-term exploration potential with multiple open targets. Its proximity to major past-producing and active mines like Pierina and Antamina underscores the strategic value of this acquisition. With this addition, we are well-positioned to continue our growth and unlock further value for our shareholders." Figure 1. Below represents Daura's land package To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6523/260526_14e868d3b4495b5c_001full.jpg Exploration Upside Potential Previous work carried out for historical resource estimates highlighted a number of areas at Yanamina which show potential for additional mineralization, both as an extension but also proximal to the existing resource. As a result of the extensive and important surface alteration within the mineralized zone, a number of these target areas can be initially geologically explored, including mapping, sampling and geophysics, among others, to determine their potential. An additional exploration target which remains open is the potential faulted extension to the existing historical resource. The historical resource is located on a fault scarp and there is sound geological evidence that the top of the resource has been removed by faulting. The extent of the "missing" upper portion of the resource is unknown, offering a straightforward exploration target with upside potential. In 2006, ASX-listed Latin Gold completed detailed mapping of the geology and alteration, channel sampling, limited adit sampling, digitizing of the historic and current data base and drilled 25 diamond drill holes totaling 1,468 meters. The drilling confirmed the geology and the near surface zone of disseminated gold and silver mineralization, which is locally exposed in outcrop. Gold was intersected in the majority of the drill holes and demonstrated strong continuity along strike. Drilling also identified a higher-grade core zone locally grading 5gpt Au over 5 meters within a mineralized envelope averaging 2.5gpt Au over intervals ranging from 20 to 30 meters. The drilling also confirmed silver values reported historically ranging up to 20.3gpt Ag explored over 10 meters. In addition to the core project area, Daura has recently staked an additional 4,700 hectares of contiguous land, significantly expanding the exploration footprint. This new ground covers prospective geology similar to the known mineralization, offering potential for resource growth. Community Engagement Daura recognizes the opportunity to establish new, long-term mutually beneficial relationships with the local communities and will strive to do this from the outset. Daura's community relations efforts at Yanamina are underway as part of the Company's due diligence process. Yanamina Project Acquisition The Company acquired the Yanamina Project from EVR in consideration for an initial payment of US$150,000 in cash (the "Initial Consideration"). The Company may make additional payments in cash or shares to EVR as contingent consideration (the "Contingent Consideration") upon completion of certain milestones in relation to the Yanamina Project. The Contingent Consideration is only accrued and payable if and when the following milestones are achieved: On the 12-month anniversary from Closing, the Purchaser will pay to the Vendor US$150,000 in cash; On the obtaining of a social license (that will allow a minimum 10,000 meter drilling campaign) with the communities in the area of influence of Yanamina, the Company will pay EVR US$1,700,000 in cash and/or common shares of the Company at the option of the Company; Within 60 days of the start of construction of Yanamina, the Company will pay EVR US$2,000,000 in cash and/or common shares of the Company at the option of the Company; and Within 60 days of the start of Commercial Production on the Project, the Company will pay EVR US$2,000,000 in cash and/or common shares of the Company at the option of the Company. Any common shares issuable to the Vendor, at the election of the Company, will be issuable at a deemed price equivalent to the volume-weighted average closing price of the common shares of the Company on the TSX Venture Exchange in the thirty (30) trading days prior to issuance and will be calculated using the applicable exchange rate posted by the Bank of Canada immediately prior to issuance. The deemed price of the common shares will be subject to such minimum pricing as is permitted by the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange and in no case will common shares be issuable at a deemed price of less than (Cdn)$0.05. Any common share issuance remains subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. Project Agreement The Yanamina Project is currently subject to the terms of a project agreement (the "Project Agreement") involving Happy Diamonds Pty. Ltd. ("Happy Diamonds"). In addition to the payments outlined above, the Company has assumed responsibility for all obligations due and owing under the Project Agreement, including the following payments owing under the Project Agreement: on or before the fifth (5th) business day following the commencement of construction of infrastructure for commercial production at the Yanamina Project, pay to Happy Diamonds the sum of US$1,500,000 in cash; on or before the tenth (10th) business day following the date of the initial gold pour from the Yanamina Project, pay to Happy Diamonds the sum of US$1,000,000 in cash; on or before the tenth (10th) business day following the first (1st) anniversary of the date of the initial gold pour from the Yanamina Project, pay to Happy Diamonds the sum of US$1,000,000 in cash; on or before the tenth (10th) business day following the second (2nd) anniversary of the date of the initial gold pour from the Yanamina Project, pay to Happy Diamonds the sum of US$1,000,000 in cash; and on or before the tenth (10th) business day following the production of 275,000 ounces of gold (or gold products containing the equivalent of such amount of refined gold using, for other precious metals, the gold equivalent ounces thereof) from the Yanamina Project, pay to Happy Diamonds the sum of US$1,000,000 in cash. Yanamina Historical Mineral Resource The historical mineral resource is included in a Technical Report titled "Deposit Modeling, NI 43-101 Resource Estimate, Preliminary Economic Assessment: Yanamina Gold Property" (the "Technical Report"), with an effective date of February 28, 2011. The report was prepared as a National Instrument 43-101 - Standard of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("National Instrument 43-101") technical report for Coronet Metals Inc. The historical estimate is considered to be relevant and for the purposes of the Company proceeding with the Transaction as it provides an indication of the potential significance of the Yanamina Project. The Technical Report provides details on mineral resources and reserves, as well a potential development option for the Yanamina Gold Project that considers underground mining and processing using conventional cyanide leach methods. However, the prices, costs, and development strategy and options are no longer current and need to be re-evaluated using assumptions and qualifications that are more reflective of today's environment. The Yanamina gold and silver deposit is a volcanic hosted, low sulphidation, epithermal quartz system. The Yanamina historical Mineral Resource data base has a total of 2,643 samples, spanning 3,402 meters from 78 drill holes. The indicated resource covers approximately 17 hectares and is outlined by a search area of 25 metres; within this area, the drill holes intersected similar grade-thickness composites at a 1g/t Au cut-off. The inferred resource is outlined by a search area of 50 metres. The holes drilled in this area intersected mineralization defined by 0.5gpt cut-off composites. Continuous blocks within the 25m search radius have thus been defined as an Indicated Resource while the blocks outside of this zone at a 50m search radius and those blocks above the 0.5 g/t Au cut-off in Zone 2 are categorized as an Indicated Resource. Further drilling at 25m spacing would be required to define additional Inferred Resources in both zones. Historical Mineral Resource Summary Summary of Historical Mineral Resources Yanamina Gold Deposit (0.50 g/t Au Cut-Off Grade) Resources Tonnes Grade (g/t Au) Total Ounces Indicated 1,566,900 1.65 83,100 Inferred 3,235,000 1.19 123,700 A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as a current mineral resource and the Company is not treating the historical estimate as a current mineral resource. Additional work including some re-sampling of historical core and a review of the geological model, will be necessary to verify the historical resource estimate. Qualified Person All scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed, verified and approved by Owen D. W. Miller, Ph.D. Member AIG, a qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101. Dr. Miller acts as an independent third-party consultant to the Company. ABOUT DAURA GOLD CORP. Listed on the TSX Venture Exchange, Daura Gold is advancing high-impact exploration projects in Peru's renowned Ancash region. Daura Gold owns a 100% undivided interest in over 8,100 hectares of exploration concessions in Ancash, including the 900-hectare Antonella target, which is the primary focus of Daura Gold's current exploration efforts. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they are not guarantees of future performance. Daura cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond Daura's control. Such factors include, among other things: future prices and the supply of gold and other precious and other metals; future demand for gold and other valuable metals; inability to raise the money necessary to incur the expenditures required to retain and advance the property; environmental liabilities (known and unknown); general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; results of exploration programs; risks of the mineral exploration industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals; adverse weather conditions and failure to obtain necessary regulatory or shareholder approvals. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Daura disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260526 SOURCE: Daura Gold Corp. BW GESTAO DE INVESTIMENTOS LTDA. Av. Brigadeiro Faria Lima, 4440, 15th floor, 04538-132, Sao Paulo-SP, Brazil THE DISSEMINATION, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION OF THIS PRESS RELEASE, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IS NOT AUTHORIZED IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN OR ANY OTHER COUNTRY WHERE SUCH COMMUNICATION WOULD VIOLATE APPLICABLE REGULATIONS BWGI announces the reopening of its voluntary tender offer for Verallia's shares The voluntary tender offer initiated by BWGI on Verallia's shares (the "Offer"), will be reopened for 10 trading days, from July 31, 2025, to August 13, 2025 (inclusive). In accordance with the General Regulation of the French financial markets authority (the "AMF"), the Offer will be reopened under the same terms at a price of 28.30 euros per Verallia share. With 70.31% of Verallia's share capital and 62.81% of its voting rights from the settlement-delivery of the initial Offer, BWGI is now the controlling shareholder of Verallia. BWGI committed to keep Verallia listed, and it believes that, with a strong stake of c.30% of minority shareholders, it has the right shareholder basis to support Verallia in the execution of its strategic plan and to create long-term value for all shareholders. July 29, 2025 - The Offer initiated by BWGI, acting through Kaon V[1], on the Verallia shares that it does not already own, will be reopened for 10 trading days, from July 31, 2025, to August 13, 2025. It follows the initial period of the public tender offer, which successfully closed on July 25, 2025. In accordance with the provisions of article 232-4 of the AMF's General Regulation, the Offer will be reopened under the same financial terms as those set out in Kaon V's offer document approved by the AMF under number no. 25-196 on June 5, 2025 (i.e. an Offer price of 28.30 per Verallia share), in order to enable shareholders who have not tendered their shares to the initial Offer to do so during the reopened Offer it they wish to. The settlement-delivery of the reopened Offer will take place on August 20, 2025. The tender procedure and the centralization of the reopened Offer is identical to those applicable to the initial Offer, it being specified, however, that tender orders to the reopened Offer are irrevocable. The documentation relating to the Offer, including the "other information" documents relating to the legal, financial and accounting characteristics of Kaon V and Verallia, is available on both Verallia's (www.verallia.com) and the AMF's (www.amf-france.org) websites. After closing of the reopened Offer, the AMF will publish the results of the reopened Offer on its website (www.amf-france.org). D.F. King Ltd is acting as information agent for Verallia's institutional shareholders (contact: Mr. David Chase Lopes, Managing Director, EMEA, david.chaselopes@dfkingltd.co.uk). A "frequently asked questions" memorandum is available on Verallia's website (www.verallia.com) to address questions that may be raised by shareholders. --- About BWSA and BWGI - Brasil Warrant Administracao de Bens e Empresas S.A. ("BWSA") has been operating for over seven decades as the Moreira Salles family's Brazilian holding company, successfully forging partnerships around the world with leading companies in a variety of sectors, such as financial services, natural resources, agriculture, consumer products, commercial services, distribution and industry. BWSA is the controlling shareholder of BWGI, an independent asset management company established in 2008 with discretionary powers to manage the portfolio of investments of BWSA's controlling shareholders through certain investment vehicles, including Kaon V, the direct shareholder of Verallia. BWGI, through its affiliates, has been a shareholder of Verallia since its initial public offering in 2019. Affiliates of BWGI also hold a stake in the French listed company Elis S.A., being its largest shareholder. Press contacts: Havas Paris Email: bwgi-press@havas.com Sarah Duparc: +33 6 46 72 39 99 Naomi Philippe: +33 6 72 55 80 35 --- Disclaimer This press release has been prepared for information purposes only. It does not constitute an offer to purchase or a solicitation to sell Verallia shares in any country, including France. The dissemination, publication or distribution of this press release may be subject to specific regulations or restrictions in certain countries. Accordingly, persons in possession of this press release are required to inform themselves about and to comply with any local restrictions that may apply. Information for U.S. holders The Offer is for Verallia shares, a company incorporated under French law, and is subject to French disclosure and procedural requirements, which differ from those applicable in the United States of America. The Offer is made in the United States of America in accordance with Section 14(e) of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act"), the laws and regulations promulgated thereunder, including Regulation 14E subject to the exemptions provided by Rule 14d-1(d) of the 1934 Act (the "Tier II" exemption), and the requirements of French law. As a result, the Offer is subject to certain disclosure and procedural rules, notably relating to the notice of extension of the Offer, the timing of settlement, and the purchase of Verallia shares outside of the Offer, which differ from the U.S. rules and procedures relating to tender offers in the United States of America. Subject to any prohibition under French law, the Offeror and its affiliates may, from time to time, purchase or make arrangements to purchase Verallia shares outside of the Offer from the time the Offer was first publicly announced until the expiration of the acceptance period of the Offer (or until the end of the acceptance period of the reopened Offer), including purchases in the open market at prevailing prices or in private transactions at negotiated prices, in each case, outside of the United States of America and to the extent permitted by applicable French law. Any such purchases will not be made at prices higher than the Offer price unless the Offer price is increased accordingly. Any such purchases will be made in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. To the extent that information about such purchases and or arrangements is made public in France, it would also be made public through a press release or any other method that would allow Verallia's U.S. shareholders to be informed and on Verallia's website (www.verallia.com). [1] BWGI is acting as the investment manager of Kaon V, a sub-fund of Kaon Investment Fund ICAV and direct shareholder of Verallia. ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: mJxtlJVsapvJl3KaZclul2aYaptilpKcbJeZlWNtmJiYbm6VyWhhaMqdZnJkmGpp - Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com. ------------------------ Copyright Actusnews Wire Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-93353-pr-eng-bwgi-offer-reopening_29.07.2025-1.pdf Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Cavalry Capital Corp. (TSXV: CVY.P) ("Cavalry" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a definitive share exchange agreement dated July 17, 2025 (the "Agreement") regarding a planned business combination (the "Transaction") with Advanced Energy Fuels, Inc. ("Advanced Energy"), as previously announced by Cavalry on May 16, 2025. Pursuant to the Agreement, Cavalry will acquire all of the outstanding common shares of Advanced Energy, and the shareholders of Advanced Energy will receive common shares of Cavalry in exchange for their common shares of Advanced Energy on the basis of one post-consolidation common share of Cavalry for each common share of Advanced Energy. As a result of the Transaction, Advanced Energy will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cavalry. It is expected that upon completion of the Transaction, the combined entity (the "Resulting Issuer") will meet the listing requirements for a Tier 2 mining issuer under the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). The Transaction is intended to constitute the "Qualifying Transaction" of Cavalry, as such a term is defined in Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies of the TSXV. Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions set out in the Agreement, the following, among other things, are intended to be completed in connection with the Transaction: Cavalry will complete a consolidation of its outstanding share capital (the " Consolidation ") on the basis of 1.66 pre-Consolidation Cavalry common shares for each post-Consolidation Cavalry common share. After the Consolidation, and prior to the completion of the Transaction and the issuance of securities under the Private Placement (as defined below), Cavalry will have approximately 3,893,072 Cavalry common shares, 369,842 stock options, and 238,705 warrants outstanding; Cavalry will issue approximately 19,879,938 post-Consolidation Cavalry common shares to the former holders of Advanced Energy common shares (the " Purchase Price "); Cavalry will complete a private placement of at least 10,000,000 subscription receipts (each, a " Subscription Receipt ") at a price of $0.25 per Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of at least $2,500,000 (" Private Placement "). Each Subscription Receipt will, upon satisfaction of certain escrow release conditions, be converted into one unit, each comprised of one post-Consolidation Cavalry common share and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a " Cavalry Warrant "). Each Cavalry Warrant will be exercisable for a period of 24 months from the escrow release date of the Subscription Receipts to purchase one post-Consolidation Cavalry common share at an exercise price of $0.35 per share. Cavalry and Advanced Energy intend to use the proceeds of the Private Placement to advance the South Woodie Woodie Manganese Project located in the Pilbara Region (the " SWWM Project "), with the intention of completing a pre-feasibility study on the SWWM Project; Advanced Energy will exercise the option to indirectly acquire a 100% interest in the SWWM Project, with Advanced Energy paying the outstanding cash amount of AUD$450,000 to Trek Metals Limited (ASX: TKM) (" Trek ") and Cavalry issuing to Trek such number of post-Consolidation Cavalry common shares that when added to the 2,000,000 post-Consolidation Cavalry common shares to be issued to Trek as an existing holder of Advanced Energy shares, is equal to not more than 19.9% of the total post-Consolidation Cavalry common shares outstanding on a post-Transaction basis (the " SWWM Acquisition "); the management and board of directors of the Resulting Issuer will be comprised of three nominees from Advanced Energy and two nominees from Cavalry; and Cavalry will change its name to "Advanced Energy Fuels Group Limited", or such other name as determined by Advanced Energy (the "Name Change"), in compliance with applicable law and as may be acceptable to the TSXV. Non-Arm's Length Parties (as defined in the policies of the TSXV) of Cavalry do not hold any direct or indirect beneficial interest in Advanced Energy. The Transaction is not a Non-Arm's Length Qualifying Transaction (as defined in the policies of the TSXV), and it is not expected that the Transaction will be subject to approval by Cavalry's shareholders. The Transaction, Consolidation, Private Placement and Name Change are subject to the approval of the TSXV. No finder's fees are payable in connection with the Transaction, other than in connection with the Private Placement. See Cavalry's press release dated May 16, 2025 for further information on Advanced Energy. Cavalry intends to issue a further press release to include a summary of the financial information of Advanced Energy, and details of the proposed principals and insiders of the Resulting Issuer. Conditions of the Transaction Completion of the Transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including without limitation: (i) receipt of all required approvals and consents relating to the Transaction, including without limitation, required approval of the TSXV; (ii) completion of the Private Placement; (iii) completion of the Consolidation; (iv) completion of the Name Change; (v) completion of the SWWM Acquisition; (vi) the reconstitution of the board of directors and management of Cavalry; and (vii) the TSXV's approval for listing the shares of the Resulting Issuer. Filing Statement In connection with the Transaction and pursuant to the requirements of the TSXV, Cavalry intends to file on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) a filing statement, which will contain details regarding the Transaction, Cavalry, Advanced Energy and the Resulting Issuer. Sponsorship of Transaction Sponsorship of a Qualifying Transaction of a "Capital Pool Company" (as defined in the polices of the Exchange) is required by the TSXV unless exempt in accordance with the policies of the TSXV. Cavalry intends to apply for such an exemption. Trading Halt It is anticipated that trading in the common shares of Cavalry will continue to be halted until the completion of the Transaction. On behalf of the board of directors of Cavalry: Brandon Bonifacio, President and CEO About Advanced Energy Fuels Advanced Energy Fuels (AEF) is a battery materials company focused on the extraction and purification of minerals critical for the batteries that power electrification and energy storage. AEF has a multi-asset portfolio strategically located in tier one jurisdictions with manganese projects in the Pilbara Region of Western Australia and fluorspar prospects in New Mexico in the United States. Manganese and fluorspar are essential raw materials to multiple high-growth industries and are designated critical minerals in Australia, US and EU. The company is focused on securing stable, allied-sourced critical mineral supply chains to reduce dependence of 'foreign entities of concern'. AEF has an existing manganese resource base and is advancing a midstream processing development program in collaboration with Australia's peak scientific body and leading laboratories in Australia and Asia. All information in this press release relating to Advanced Energy has been provided by Advanced Energy and is the sole responsibility of Advanced Energy. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein in the United States. The securities described herein have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities law and may not be offered or sold in the "United States", as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration requirements is available. Cautionary Note Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, TSXV acceptance and if applicable pursuant to TSXV requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a Capital Pool Company should be considered highly speculative. The TSXV has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the proposal to complete the Transaction and associated transactions, including statements regarding the terms and conditions of the Transaction, the Purchase Price, the Name Change, the Private Placement, the Consolidation, meeting the initial listing requirements of the TSXV, the use of proceeds of the Private Placement, and the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer. The information about Advanced Energy contained in the press release has not been independently verified by Cavalry. Although Cavalry believes in light of the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because Cavalry can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned to not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements depending on, among other things, the risks that the parties will not proceed with the Transaction, the Name Change, the Consolidation, the Private Placement, the appointment of the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer and associated transactions, that the ultimate terms of the Transaction, the Private Placement, the appointment of the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer and associated transactions will differ from those that currently are contemplated, and that the Transaction, the Name Change, the Consolidation, the Private Placement, the appointment of the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer and associated transactions will not be successfully completed for any reason (including the failure to obtain the required approvals or clearances from regulatory authorities). The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. Cavalry undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third-parties in respect of Cavalry, Advanced Energy, their securities, or their respective financial or operating results (as applicable). There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed or, if completed, will be successful. Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260540 SOURCE: Cavalry Capital Corp. Since the rejection of key financial delegations during its Shareholders General Meeting of February 11, 2025, triggering a case of default of certain of its existing debts, Poxel's management has held discussions with the Company's creditors. Poxel's proposed plan including a partnership and sale for one of its pipeline product together with potential additional financing, could not materialize within a foreseeable timeframe. Consequently, Poxel and IPF Partners have agreed on a transition plan which includes the following steps: Filing by Poxel for insolvency ( declaration de cessation des paiements ) and requesting the opening of reorganization proceedings (redressement judiciaire) to the Court for Economic Activities of Lyon; Upcoming replacement of all current members of the Board of Directors following their individual resignation; Upcoming announcement of a new executive management team to replace the current CEO; and Implementation of a short-term operational and financial transition plan to ensure continuity of operations. Implementation of the steps of this transition plan will be announced as soon as it is effective. Poxel's shares will be suspended from trading on July 30, 2025, and will trade again after the decision of the Court for Economic Activities of Lyon expected to occur in the first week of August 2025. Regulatory News: POXEL SA (Euronext: POXEL FR0012432516), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company developing innovative treatments for chronic serious diseases with metabolic pathophysiology, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and rare metabolic disorders, today provides an update on its ongoing negotiations with its creditors and its agreement with its senior creditor, IPF Partners, to file for insolvency (declaration de cessation des paiements), to request the opening of reorganization proceedings (redressement judiciaire) and to undertake significant corporate governance changes in a short notice. Context Failure at the Combined Shareholders' Meeting of February 11, 2025 to approve certain financial delegations, and, in particular, on the issuance of new shares in redemption for bonds redeemable into new or existing shares (ORANE) held, or to be potentially issued and held by IRIS, triggered an event of default under the IRIS and IPF Partners bond financing agreements allowing each of them to request mandatory redemption of the bonds they hold (EUR 4.3 million and EUR 14.2 million, respectively, as of June 30, 2025). Since then, Poxel's Board and Management have actively engaged in restructuring discussions with creditors to identify a solution that would allow the Company to continue its operations. At the same time, the Company pursued discussions with several potential partners for the development of its pipeline. In particular, Poxel entered into advanced negotiations with a prospective partner for PXL065. However, given the short cash runway of the Company (which the Company announced on June 30, 2025 to run through the course of July 2025) as well as the foreseeable timeframe required to close this partnership and sale, this plan could not be completed. As a result, Poxel Management and Board of Directors have agreed to proceed with the following significant structural corporate changes at Poxel, following the filing for insolvency (declaration de cessation des paiements) and requesting the opening of reorganization proceedings (redressement judiciaire) with the Court for Economic Activities of Lyon. Estimated Consolidated Cash and Cash Equivalents Position as of June 30, 2025 The Company estimates that its total consolidated cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2025, amounted to approximately EUR 1.3 million (unaudited), including EUR 563 thousand corresponding to cash held in security trusts bank accounts to secure their financing for several years, in accordance with the royalty monetization agreement with OrbiMed. Filing for insolvency (declaration de cessation des paiements and for the opening of reorganization proceedings (redressement judiciaire) On July 29, 2025, Poxel filed for insolvency (declaration de cessation des paiements) and for the opening of reorganization proceedings (redressement judiciaire) with the Court for Economic Activities of Lyon. A decision of the court is expected to occur on or after the hearing scheduled on August 5, 2025. Impact on Governance and Organization Given the inability to secure support from creditors for its strategic development plan, an agreement between the Board of Directors of Poxel and its senior creditor IPF Partners has been reached to implement the following measures: Replacement of all the current Board members following their individual resignation by new directors coopted by the Board of Directors in a short notice after the filing for the opening of reorganization proceedings (redressement judiciaire) in front of the Court for Economic Activities of Lyon. Appointment of a new transition CEO by the new Board of Directors to occur in a short notice after the filing for the opening of reorganization proceedings (redressement judiciaire) in front of the Court for Economic Activities of Lyon. Implementation of a short-term financial and operational transition plan aimed at ensuring the continuity of Poxel's operations. Existing CEO Thomas Kuhn will provide support to the Company during this transition period. The Board of Directors of the Company has approved the agreement with IPF Partners which is summarized herein and on the website of the Company under the related party transactions (conventions reglementees) subsections. Outlook and 2024 annual accounts Implementation of the steps of the proposed transition plan will be announced as soon as effective, including the change of Governance and the decision of the Court for Economic Activities of Lyon regarding the request for the opening of reorganization proceedings (redressement judiciaire Given the current situation, the Company is unable to provide an effective timeline for the approval and publication of its 2024 annual report or the convening of its next Annual General Meeting, which has been postponed as mentioned below. Suspension of trading Poxel's shares will be suspended from trading starting July 30, 2025, before market opening and will trade again after the decision of the Court for Economic Activities of Lyon expected to occur on August 5, 2025, or shortly after. Poxel will continue to inform the market of the next major steps of its reorganization proceedings. Postponement of Annual General Meeting until December 31, 2025 As already made public on June 30, 2025, the Lyon Court for Economic Activities granted the Company's request to postpone until December 31, 2025, at the latest, the holding of its 2025 Annual General Meeting due to the delay in the approval of its annual statutory and consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year 2024. As a reminder, this delay in the closing and publication of its 2024 annual results resulted from the potential impact of the negotiations with the Company's financial creditors and with potential partners for the development of the Company's pipeline on its financial statements. The holding of the 2025 Annual General Meeting remains subject to the approval by the Board of Directors of the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024. About Poxel SA Poxel is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company developing innovative treatments for chronic serious diseases with metabolic pathophysiology, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and rare disorders. For the treatment of MASH, PXL065 (deuterium-stabilized R-pioglitazone) met its primary endpoint in a streamlined Phase 2 trial (DESTINY-1). In rare diseases, development of PXL770, a first-in-class direct adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator, is focused on the treatment of adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). TWYMEEG (Imeglimin), Poxel's first-in-class product that targets mitochondrial dysfunction, is now marketed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in Japan by Sumitomo Pharma and Poxel expects to receive royalties and sales-based payments. Poxel has a strategic partnership with Sumitomo Pharma for Imeglimin in Japan. Listed on Euronext Paris, Poxel is headquartered in Lyon, France, and has subsidiaries in Boston, MA, and Tokyo, Japan. For more information, please visit: www.poxelpharma.com All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this press release about future events are subject to (i) change without notice and (ii) factors beyond the Company's control. These statements may include, without limitation, any statements preceded by, followed by or including words such as "target," "believe," "expect," "aim," "intend," "may," "anticipate," "estimate," "plan," "project," "will," "can have," "likely," "should," "would," "could" and other words and terms of similar meaning or the negative thereof. Forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control that could cause the Company's actual results or performance to be materially different from the expected results or performance expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not endorse or is not otherwise responsible for the content of external hyperlinks referred to in this press release. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729767643/en/ Contacts: Contacts Investor relations Media NewCap Aurelie Manavarere, Theo Martin Arthur Rouille investors@poxelpharma.com +33 1 44 71 94 94 Kelowna, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - F4 Uranium Corp. (TSXV: FFU) (OTCQB: FFUCF) (the "Company" or "F4") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an option agreement, dated July 29, 2025, (the "Option Agreement") with Stearman Resources Inc. ("Stearman") pursuant to which the Company has granted Stearman the exclusive option to acquire up to a 70% interest in the Company's Murphy Lake uranium property in Saskatchewan (the "Property"). The Property is located in the northeastern Athabasca Basin, 5 km south of ISOEnergy's Hurricane Uranium Deposit, 15 km north of Purepoint Uranium and Iso Energy's Nova Discovery, and 4 km east of Cameco's La Rocque Lake Uranium Zone. Ray Ashley, Chief Executive Officer of F4 commented: "We are very pleased to have reached this new exclusive option agreement with Stearman. The agreement is considered as an arms length transaction. This strategic partnership marks a significant step forward in advancing F4's flagship uranium asset with a dedicated partner, leveraging F4's technical expertise and Stearman's financial commitment. This new deal reflects F4's focused strategy to unlock the project's potential through a committed partnership and establishes a clear path forward for exploration and development at Murphy Lake." Pursuant to the terms of the Option Agreement: Stearman shall pay to F4 a non-refundable cash payment in the amount of $50,000 on July 28, 2025 (the " Initial Payment Date "). F4 has granted to Stearman the option (the " Initial Option ") to acquire a 50% interest in the Property by: Paying to F4 an aggregate of $750,000 in cash over a period of twenty-four (24) months from the Initial Payment Date in accordance with the following schedule: $150,000 on or before the date that is forty-five (45) days after the Initial Payment Date; $150,000 on or before the date that is six (6) months after the Initial Payment Date; $150,000 on or before the date that is twelve (12) months after the Initial Payment Date; $150,000 on or before the date that is eighteen (18) months after the Initial Payment Date; and $150,000 on or before the date that is twenty-four (24) months after the Initial Payment Date; Funding a total of $10,000,000 of exploration expenditures on the Property (" Expenditures ") over a period of forty-two (42) months from the Initial Payment Date in accordance with the following schedule: $1,500,000 of Expenditures on or before the date that is twelve (12) months after the Initial Payment Date; $1,500,000 of Expenditures on or before the date that is twenty-four (24) months after the Initial Payment Date; and $7,000,000 of Expenditures on or before the date that is forty-two (42) months after the Initial Payment Date; and Stearman shall complete one or more equity financings to raise aggregate gross proceeds totaling at least $3,000,000 on or before such that that is six (6) months after the Initial Payment Date, on completion of which Stearman shall issue to F4 such number of common shares of Stearman (" Stearman Shares ") equal to 9.9% of the total number of issued and outstanding Stearman Shares as of such issuance date. Following the exercise of the Initial Option, Stearman shall have the option (the " Bump-Up Option ") to acquire an additional 20% interest in the Property (for a total interest in the Property of 70%) by: Paying to F4 an aggregate of $500,000 in cash over a period of thirty-six (36) months from the Initial Payment Date in accordance with the following schedule: $250,000 on or before the date that is thirty (30) months after the Initial Payment Date; and $250,000 on or before the date that is thirty-six (36) months after the Initial Payment Date; and Funding additional Expenditures totaling $8,000,000 on or before the date that is sixty (60) months from the Initial Payment Date. Following the exercise by Stearman of the Initial Option, Stearman shall grant to F4 a 2.0% net smelter returns royalty in respect of the Property (the " NSR Royalty ") payable to F4 upon commencement of commercial production at the Property. On the earlier of such date as Stearman (i) exercises the Bump-Up Option; (ii) elects not to exercise the Bump-Up Option; and (iii) sixty (60) months from the Initial Payment Date, F4 and Stearman will form a joint venture pursuant to which the parties will agree to the terms which shall apply to the further exploration and development of the Property. The transactions contemplated under the Option Agreement remain subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and the Canadian Securities Exchange. The Option Agreement between the Company and Stearman supersedes the previous option agreement dated May 29, 2024, as amended October 21, 2024, to which the Property was previously subject, and which was terminated on July 27, 2025. Figure 1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10832/260496_c759e04064e5ebf5_002full.jpg About the Murphy Lake Property F4's 609-hectare Murphy Lake Property is located in the north-eastern corner of the Athabasca Basin, 30 km northwest of Orano's McLean Lake deposits, 5 km south of ISOEnergy's Hurricane Uranium Deposit and 4 km east of Cameco's La Rocque Lake Uranium Zone where drill hole Q22-040 intersected 29.9% U3O8 over 7.0 m. The 2022 maiden drill program at the Murphy Lake Property consisted of 14 completed drillholes totaling 6,850m; scintillometer results from hole ML22-006 intersected a peak of 2,300 cps (see NR August 10, 2022), which resulted in assay results of 0.065% U3O8 over 2.5m from 322.5m to 324.5m, including 0.242% U3O8 over 0.5m.1 Qualified Person The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved on behalf of the Company by Sam Hartmann, P.Geo., President & Chief Operation Officer of F4, and a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. About F4 Uranium Corp: F4 Uranium is a Canadian uranium exploration company focused on the Athabasca Basin in northern Saskatchewan, and the latest uranium explorer, lead by the same management and exploration team with a legacy of discovery successes. The project portfolio includes 17 wholly owned properties totaling roughly 157,000 ha, many of which are near uranium deposits including Paladin's Triple R, Nexgen Energy's Arrow and IsoEnergy's Hurricane. The assets were spun out of F3 Uranium in 2024, where the technical and management team made their third, and more recently fourth uranium discoveries at Patterson Lake North and Broach Lake. F4's core focus will be split between the west and east sides of the Athabasca Basin as the Company is establishing itself as an explorer and project generator providing shareholders renewed exposure at an early stage. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things: the completion of the transactions contemplated by the Option Agreement and the expected benefits therefrom; and the Company's future focus and strategic plans. These forward-looking statements reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant operational, business, economic and regulatory uncertainties and contingencies. These assumptions include, among other things: conditions in general economic and financial markets; accuracy of assay results; geological interpretations from drilling results, timing and amount of capital expenditures; performance of available laboratory and other related services; future operating costs; the historical basis for current estimates of potential quantities and grades of target zones; the availability of skilled labour and no labour related disruptions at any of the Company's operations; no unplanned delays or interruptions in scheduled activities; all necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals for operations are received in a timely manner; the ability to secure and maintain title and ownership to properties and the surface rights necessary for operations; and the Company's ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive. The Company cautions the reader that forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements contained in this news release and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the timing and content of work programs; results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties; the interpretation and uncertainties of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; project costs overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; availability of funds; failure to delineate potential quantities and grades of the target zones based on historical data; general market and industry conditions; and those factors identified under the caption "Risks Factors" in the Company's Listing Application on Form 2B. The Company cautions the reader that results and mineralization on neighbouring properties are not necessarily indicative of mineralization on the Companies properties. Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. 1 See news release of F3 Uranium Corp. dated August 10, 2022 and the technical report entitled "Technical Report for the Murphy Lake Property, NE Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, Canada" dated effective February 12, 2025 available on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260496 SOURCE: F4 Uranium Corp. Acquisition of business assets of leader in granular pigment manufacturing for all segments of the concrete market including ready mix, stamped concrete, block, pavers, and precast will further strengthen Saint-Gobain's Construction Chemicals activities in Canada and the United States Saint-Gobain Group has acquired the business assets of Interstar Materials Inc. (Interstar), further strengthening its expansion in North America's Construction Chemicals sector. Today's acquisition of Interstar's business assets and team into the organization will further strengthen Saint-Gobain's position in the construction chemicals market and will mark the company's entrance into granular pigments for concrete. This acquisition follows recent action by the company in the construction chemicals sector in the United States and Canada, including the acquisitions of Chryso in 2021 and GCP Applied Technologies in 2022. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729002711/en/ With over 30 years of manufacturing experience, Interstar has been a leading North American manufacturer of products for the growing decorative concrete industry, allowing for the creation of concrete that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Interstar offers a full portfolio of solutions for all segments of the concrete market including ready mix, stamped concrete, block, pavers, and precast. With this latest acquisition, Saint-Gobain will add over C$20 million to its revenue and establish a strong presence in the granular pigments industry in North America. The business will continue to operate from its headquarters in Sherbrooke, Quebec, as well as at additional facilities in Calgary, Alberta, and Junction City, Illinois. Saint-Gobain will also welcome 55 new employees, whose expertise will enhance the capabilities of its Construction Chemicals business. "With this acquisition, we are continuing to strengthen our leadership in the Construction Chemicals segment," said Mark Rayfield, President and CEO of Saint-Gobain North America. "Interstar Materials, Inc. is an ideal partner for Saint-Gobain, sharing our commitment to innovation and sustainable construction. I am excited to collaborate with the Interstar team and welcome their employees into our business. Together, we will continue to drive progress toward our mission of 'Making the World a Better Home.'" "This acquisition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to continually enhance our best-in-class product and service offerings, ensuring we meet and exceed our customers' expectations," said Steven Williams, President, Construction Chemicals, Infrastructure, and Commercial North America. "The Interstar team and I are thrilled to join Saint-Gobain's Construction Chemical's business and work with the Chryso team," said Zachary Gillman, President of Interstar Materials, Inc. "From the outset of the acquisition process, it was clear that our companies share common values a commitment to quality, integrity, innovation, and growth. I am especially excited about the opportunities this partnership will create for Interstar employees as part of the Saint-Gobain Group." Saint-Gobain will continue to operate the granular pigment and dispenser business under the Interstar brand within US and Canada. Today's announcement follows several other recent growth investments announced by Saint-Gobain: In February, Saint-Gobain announced the expansion of its NorPro Ceramics business with a new facility in Niagara County, New York. First announced in 2023, Saint-Gobain will complete several expansions at plant facilities later this year to increase production capacity and further meet demand in the United States, including in roofing at its facility in Peachtree City, Georgia, gypsum wallboard in Palatka, Florida and glass mat in Oxford, North Carolina. Later this year, Saint-Gobain and CertainTeed Canada will complete an announced investment to upgrade equipment at its gypsum facility outside Montreal, which will increase the plant's production capacity by up to 40%. The plant will also be powered solely by renewable electricity from Hydro-Quebec, making it the first zero-carbon wallboard plant in North America for scope 1 and 2 emissions. With over 160 manufacturing locations in Canada and the United States, every current and future member of the company's team plays a vital role in achieving its sustainability goals. A current list of job openings at all Saint-Gobain locations can be found on the company's careers website. About Saint-Gobain Worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures and distributes materials and services for the construction and industrial markets. Its integrated solutions for the renovation of public and private buildings, light construction and the decarbonization of construction and industry are developed through a continuous innovation process and provide sustainability and performance. The Group, celebrating its 360th anniversary in 2025, remains more committed than ever to its purpose "MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME". 46.6 billion in sales in 2024 166,000 employees, locations in 80 countries Committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 About Interstar Materials, Inc. For over thirty years, Interstar has been a leader in the pigment industry renowned for their innovation, quality, and responsive, flexible customer service in all sectors of the concrete industry. Interstar's propriety Granastar granular pigment has revolutionized the ready mix industry, making it easier and more efficient to color ready mix concrete with their pigment and automated dispensing systems. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250729002711/en/ Contacts: Media Contacts Peter Clark Saint-Gobain Corporate Communications media@saint-gobain.com PRESS RELEASE Bloomberg(THEON:NA)/Reuters(THEON.AS) THEON announces formation of Theon Belgium subsidiary and establishment of new facilities in Belgium. MinoritystakeacquisitioninAndresIndustriestoexpandEuropeanpresence and enhance digital/thermal capabilities. 29 July 2025 - Theon International Plcis pleased to announce the formation of its 100% owned subsidiary, Theon Belgium. This strategic move follows the growing global traction of its A.R.M.E.D. product series and the high growth prospects for this line of products. Via its new wholly owned Theon Belgium, THEON is establishing a new production facility at Zaventem as well as a liaison office in Brussels for European Union/NATO programs. THEON has already appointed a Belgian citizen as the designated Plant Manager. His primary responsibilities in the initial phase of the company will include overseeing the setup of the facility and recruiting the necessary personnel-up to 12 employees in the first phase-with the objective of commencing production in Q4. The new production facility will be located within the Ikaros Business Park in Zaventem, a strategic industrial hub near Brussels that hosts several high-tech companies. The facility spans 420 square meters, offering ample space for both manufacturing and future R&D integration as part of THEON's long-term operational expansion in the region. Theon Belgium has already signed local cooperation agreements with the major electrooptic manufacturers and local producers of subcomponents and intends to take advantage of the country's inroads in the thermal/digital oriented capabilities. This investment will establish an export-oriented hub that will not only facilitate local end- user needs but also support THEON's global customer base. As previously communicated, THEON plans to increase the proportion of the A.R.M.E.D. products in its annual revenue from below 10% expected in 2025 to approximately 20% in 2026. Building on this momentum and supported by both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, THEON is targeting 50% of revenues coming from products outside of Night Vision in the medium term. This expansion is part of the broader THEON NEXT strategy, now finalized, under which THEON will soon announce additional investments and acquisitions across the digital and electro-optic domains. These will include international commercial partnerships and R&D collaborations, with a strong emphasis on European and US collaborations. In line with this strategic direction, THEON is also pleased to announce the acquisition of a 10% strategic equity stake in Andres Industries AG (ANDRES) through a 1.1 million share capital increase. The agreement includes options allowing THEON to increase its stake to up to 24.99% within 2 years for a total consideration of 4.5 m. THEON has already been engaged with ANDRES in a major tender in Northern Europe, as well as other business opportunities in this domain, providing total solutions on supply and maintenance of new generation products. Furthermore, THEON has transferred its HQ to Berlin, located at Andres Industries facilities, to provide closer support of its activities in the German capital. This minority acquisition is part of THEON's normal course of business to expand its presence in Germany. It is unrelated to the company's broader M&A strategy, for which further announcements will be made in due course, as negotiations progress. Philippe Mennicken Deputy CEO & BD Director of THEON stated: "I am personally pleased, as a Belgian citizen, that finally THEON is establishing such an advanced production facility in my own country. Belgium has all local capabilities and technologies to support these efforts and combine those with the very advanced digital products of THEON. Production and R&D efforts will be integrated across Belgium, Germany and Greece". "The establishment of Theon Belgium and the investment in Andres Industries serve two purposes: First they represent the prelude to the THEON NEXT global new era cooperations soon to be announced. Secondly, they demonstrate our firm industrial commitment to Germany and Belgium - two very important customers of THEON. Furthermore, all THEON'S strategic moves align with the very much needed European Defense Industry Integration (EDII) which is actively pursued by all European Union members' leadership. All our upcoming announcements during the next two to three months will be in this direction. THEON intends to be a catalyst this EDII direction, and we are very proud of this" commented Mr Christian Hadjiminas, CEO of THEON. THEONProductionFacility withinIKAROSPark,Zaventem,Belgium BrusselsOfficeLocation For inquiries, please contact: InvestorRelations Nikos Malesiotis E-Mail: ir@theon.com Tel: +30 210 6772290 MediaContact Elli Michou E-Mail: press@theon.comTel: +30 210 6728610 About THEON GROUP THEON GROUP of companies develops and manufactures cutting-edge night vision and thermal Imaging systems for Defense and Security applications with a global footprint. THEON GROUP started its operations in 1997 from Greece and today occupies a leading role in the sector thanks to its international presence through subsidiaries and production facilities in Greece, Cyprus, Germany, the Baltics, the United States, the Gulf States, Switzerland, Denmark, Belgium, Singapore and South Korea. THEON GROUP has more than 220,000 systems in service with Armed and Special Forces in 71 countries around the world, 26 of which are NATO countries. ????? ????RNATIONAL PLC has been listed on Euronext Amsterdam Attachments Shares Issued and Outstanding: 168,638,937 KELOWNA, BC / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Diamcor Mining Inc. (TSX-V.DMI), (the "Company") announces that due to ongoing delays in completing its funding objectives and associated operational and audit related delays, the Company will be unable to file its audited financial statements and corresponding management's discussion and analysis for the year ended March 31, 2025 (collectively, the "Financial Disclosure") on or before the prescribed filing deadline of July 29, 2025 as required by National Instrument 51-102 - Continuous Disclosure Obligations. The Company's South African auditor, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and its Canadian auditor, MNP LLP, require more time to complete the preparation, reviews and audit in respect of the Financial Disclosure. The delay has been caused by the inability of the Company to complete its funding objectives underway and the associated funding transactions due to the well documented industry wide supply chain disruptions and the resulting uncertainty surrounding the impact of US imposed tariffs, compounded by the recent actions undertaken by a major creditor, Tiffany & Co. Canada ("Tiffany"), to enforce its security against all of the Company's present and after acquired personal propertyand all shares held by the Company in the capital of its subsidiary DMI Diamonds South Africa (Pty) Ltd., as previously announced in the Company's news release on June 13, 2025. These issues have disrupted the Company's South African operations, which has also contributed to the delays in completing the South Africa portion of the Company's annual audit work. The Company is working to complete the financing objectives underway, provide the additional submissions and related items to its auditors and to complete the audit of the financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2025. In this regard, the Company has formulated the following remediation plan: Finalize arrangements with Tiffany to defer any formal insolvency proceedings in order to enable the Company to complete its funding objectives (target completion: August 15, 2025); Complete funding objectives (target completion August 29, 2025); Complete delivery of required submissions and related items to the Company's South African and Canadian auditors (target completion: September 2, 2025); Complete draft Annual Filings for review and approval by the Company (target completion: September 23, 2025); Complete final approval and filing of Annual Filing (target completion: September 26, 2025). Based on the foregoing, the Company anticipates that it will be in a position to file its Financial Disclosure before September 29, 2025. The Company confirms that it will comply with the alternative information guidelines included in National Policy 12-203 - Management Cease Trade Orders, for so long as it remains in default of a specified requirement. The Company has filed an application with the British Columbia Securities Commission and the Alberta Securities Commission requesting that they issue a management cease trade order against the Company's Directors, Officers and/or Insiders instead of a cease trade order against the Company and all of its securityholders. About Diamcor Mining Inc. Diamcor Mining Inc. is a fully reporting publicly traded junior diamond mining company which is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol V.DMI. The Company has a well-established operational and production history in South Africa and extensive prior experience supplying rough diamonds to the world market. On behalf of the Board of Directors Mr. Dean H. Taylor President & CEO Diamcor Mining Inc. DTaylor@diamcormining.com Tel (250) 864-3326 www.diamcormining.com Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements in this document include statements concerning the Company's intent to file the Financial Disclosure before September 29, 2025, and all other statements that are not statements of historical fact. Although the Company believes the forward-looking information contained in this news release is reasonable based on information available on the date hereof, by their nature forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. By their nature, these statements involve a variety of assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, levels of activity and achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Examples of such assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, assumptions, risks and uncertainties associated with adverse industry events; future legislative and regulatory developments; and other assumptions, risks and uncertainties. THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS NEWS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE EXPECTATIONS OF THE COMPANY AS OF THE DATE OF THIS NEWS RELEASE AND, ACCORDINGLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER SUCH DATE. READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THIS INFORMATION AS OF ANY OTHER DATE. WHILE THE COMPANY MAY ELECT TO, IT DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME EXCEPT AS REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS. WE SEEK SAFE HARBOUR Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: Diamcor Mining Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/diamcor-announces-application-for-a-management-cease-trade-order-1054478 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Sharp Therapeutics Corp. (TSXV: SHRX) ("Sharp" or the "Company"), a preclinical-stage biotechnology company developing small molecule therapies to treat genetic diseases, today announced that it has engaged Rho, Inc. ("Rho"), a global contract research organization (CRO), to support Sharp's preparation and planned submission of its Investigational New Drug Application ("IND") to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (the "FDA") for the evaluation of its clinical candidate compound ("'901") for the treatment of Gaucher disease. Gaucher disease is a genetic disorder caused by a deficiency in the enzyme glucocerebrosidase (also called beta-glucosidase or GBA1). Sharp's small molecule compound is a potential new orally available CNS-penetrant therapy for the treatment of Gaucher disease. "We are excited by the preclinical data from our Gaucher candidate, '901, and look forward to Rho's support in preparing our IND and other filings," said Scott Sneddon, PhD, JD and Chief Executive Officer of Sharp. "We intend to meet with FDA on our Phase I clinical plan, and to file for orphan drug designation this year. IND-enabling studies are also planned to commence before end of 2025. This is a key milestone for Sharp as we transition from a preclinical-stage to a clinical-stage company," he added. About '901 The '901 compound increases GBA1 activity for numerous mutations in Gaucher patient-derived cells, as well as increasing substrate turnover in a rodent model of Gaucher. Preclinical studies show the compound to be orally available and CNS-penetrant with good safety and preclinical pharmacology profiles. The compound is being targeted to all types of Gaucher with an application to GBA-associated Parkinson's disease also possible. The scientific data supporting the '901 series of compounds was presented at the GBA1 Conference in Montreal on June 5, 2025. That presentation is available on the Company's website at www.sharptx.com. About Gaucher Disease Gaucher disease is a lysosomal storage disease caused by a deficiency in the GBA1 enzyme. Gaucher is the most common lysosomal storage disorder. Without this enzyme, the glucocerebroside lipid accumulates within the lysosomes of certain cells, particularly macrophages (immune cells). These overloaded cells, called "Gaucher cells," become enlarged and dysfunctional. The buildup primarily affects the spleen, liver, bone marrow, and sometimes the nervous system, leading to organ enlargement and the characteristic symptoms of the disease. This is the classic pattern of lysosomal storage diseases: enzyme deficiency -> substrate accumulation -> cellular dysfunction -> organ pathology. About Rho, Inc. Rho is a global, privately held contract research organization (CRO) headquartered in Research Triangle Park, a biotech hub in North Carolina, US. Rho provides a full range of drug development services, from program strategy through to clinical trials and marketing applications. Since 1984, Rho has been a trusted partner to some of the most innovative pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device companies as well as academic and government organizations. Dedicated to service excellence and cross-functional collaboration, Rho's therapeutic expertise, employee focus and commitment to strong site relationships change what it means to work with a CRO - accelerating time to market, maximizing ROI, and delivering consistent, smarter and more efficient programs. Experience Rho by following the company on LinkedIn. About Sharp Therapeutics Corp. - First-Choice Therapies for Genetic Diseases Sharp Therapeutics is a preclinical-stage company developing small-molecule therapeutics for genetic diseases. The Company's discovery platform combines novel high throughput screening technologies, with compound libraries computational optimized based on the physics and biology of cellular trafficking defects and allosteric activation of proteins. The platform produces small molecule compounds that restore activity in mutated proteins giving the potential to treat genetic disorders with conventional pill-based medicines. For additional information on Sharp, please visit: www.sharptx.com. Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information Certain statements contained in this press release constitute "forward-looking information" as such term is defined in applicable Canadian securities legislation. The words "may", "would", "could", "should", "potential", "will", "seek", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking information. Such statements reflect Sharp's current views and intentions with respect to future events, and current information available to Sharp, and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking information to vary from those described herein should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize. Should any factor affect Sharp in an unexpected manner, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, the actual results or events may differ materially from the results or events predicted. Any such forward-looking information is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Moreover, Sharp does not assume responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such forward-looking information. The forward-looking information included in this press release is made as of the date of this press release and Sharp undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, other than as required by applicable law. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260601 SOURCE: Sharp Therapeutics Corp. THUNDER BAY, ON / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Clean Air Metals Inc. ("Clean Air Metals" or the "Company") (TSXV:AIR)(FRA:CKU)(OTCQB:CLRMF) announces the results of the Company's annual general meeting of shareholders, which was held earlier today. At the meeting, James Gallagher, Dean Chambers, David Peck, and Mike Garbutt were re-elected as directors of the Company, and Manning Elliott LLP was re-appointed as Auditor for the Company for the ensuing year. Prior to the meeting, the board of directors extended the proxy deposit deadline for the meeting to 9 a.m. Eastern Time on July 29, 2025. The proxy deposit deadline was extended to allow shareholders who had not yet voted an opportunity to complete and submit their proxy for the meeting. The Company also announces that it has granted an aggregate of 2,200,000 incentive stock options to certain directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company, subject to regulatory approval. The stock options are exercisable at $0.05 for a period of 5 years from the grant date and subject to vesting terms. About Clean Air Metals Clean Air Metals is a development and exploration company advancing its flagship, 100% owned Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals ("TBN") project, 40 km northeast of Thunder Bay, Ontario. The TBN project, accessible by road and next to established infrastructure, hosts two (2) deposits - the Current and Escape deposits, only 2.5 km apart. Together, the deposits host a 13.8 Mt indicated mineral resource containing 2.4M Pt eq. oz (Technical Report on the Thunder Bay North Project, Ontario Canada, NI43-101, SLR Consulting Canada Ltd, June 19, 2023) with significant potential for expansion down-plunge. One of the rare primary platinum resources outside of South Africa, the TBN project is in a stable and mining-friendly jurisdiction and benefits from longstanding relationships with local First Nations. With its proven technical team, Clean Air Metals is committed to growing the resources at the TBN project and creating long-term value for shareholders. Social Engagement Clean Air Metals Inc. acknowledges that the Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project is located within the area encompassed by the Robinson-Superior Treaty of 1850 and includes the territories of the Fort William First Nation,?Red Rock Indian Band, Biinjitiwabik Zaaging Anishinabek and Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek. Clean Air Metals also acknowledges the contributions of the Metis Nation of Ontario, Region 2 and the Red Sky Metis Independent Nation to the rich history of our area.? The Company appreciates the opportunity to work in these territories and remains committed to the recognition and respect of those who have lived, travelled, and gathered on the lands since time immemorial. Clean Air Metals is committed to stewarding Indigenous heritage and remains committed to building, fostering and encouraging a respectful relationship with First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples based upon principles of mutual trust, respect, reciprocity and collaboration in the spirit of reconciliation. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS "Mike Garbutt" Mike Garbutt, CEO of Clean Air Metals Inc. Connect with us on X/ Facebook/ Instagram. Visit www.cleanairmetals.ca for more information or contact: Mia Boiridy Director of Communications and Investor Relations 250-575-3305 mboiridy@cleanairmetals.ca Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or, future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections. SOURCE: Clean Air Metals, Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/clean-air-metals-announces-results-of-annual-general-meeting-1054539 Summary: Businesses in the asphalt paving sector seeking new leads and more jobs can learn how to get noticed with ExtPath LLC's new guide to building trust in the age of AI. Sheridan, Wyoming--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - ExtPath LLC has recently released a new publication, "The Ultimate Guide to Leads, Conversion, Authority, and Trust in the Age of AI," a comprehensive resource for asphalt paving contractors seeking to enhance their customer acquisition strategies. The guide focuses on how artificial intelligence is reshaping lead generation and customer interactions, offering contractors the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital marketplace. As technology continues to evolve, many industries are seeing shifts in how businesses connect with customers. For asphalt paving contractors, staying competitive means adapting to these changes, particularly in digital marketing. The new guide by ExtPath LLC helps contractors navigate this transformation by providing practical insights into using AI-driven tools to increase leads, build trust, and convert prospects into long-term clients. ExtPath LLC Releases AI-Focused Marketing Guide for Asphalt Paving Contractors To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10740/260594_2eb8076b74aa88c9_001full.jpg The publication highlights how AI influences consumer behavior and emphasizes the importance of adapting asphalt paving contractor marketing strategies to meet changing expectations. Contractors can use the guide to learn how to make their content discoverable by AI systems, optimize their online presence with relevant keywords, and establish authority in their local markets. In addition to discussing long-tail keywords and lead conversion, the guide also explores how contractors can build lasting trust with potential customers through transparent digital practices. This release marks a key milestone for ExtPath LLC as it continues to invest in content development and thought leadership for niche industries. The company aims to provide valuable resources to help businesses within the asphalt sector leverage new technologies for sustainable growth and development. In the face of shrinking attention spans and increasing customer expectations, contractors must adapt to the changing landscape of customer acquisition. The guide provides actionable strategies for contractors to effectively position their businesses without relying on outdated marketing tactics. It encourages a shift toward smarter, data-driven approaches that align with the digital-first behaviors of today's consumers. By releasing this publication, ExtPath LLC reaffirms its commitment to providing timely and relevant resources for businesses seeking to stay ahead of technological advancements. The guide is available for download on the company's website and provides readers with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of modern marketing for paving contractors, driving long-term success. About ExtPath LLC: ExtPath LLC helps paving and concrete contractors stand out in their markets through innovative digital marketing strategies. With over 15 years of experience as a digital marketer, the company is dedicated to understanding clients' challenges to offer tailored solutions that help them achieve their business goals. Media Contact: To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10740/260594_2eb8076b74aa88c9_002full.jpg To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260594 SOURCE: GetFeatured San Marcos, Texas--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Griffith Ford of San Marcos presents the new 2025 Expedition SUV, a new model designed to address the increasing demand for vehicles that combine everyday usability with expanded capability. The vehicle features a range of upgrades that enhance performance, including an intelligent 4WD system, advanced terrain management systems, and a 7,000-lb towing capacity. With the 2025 Expedition SUV in its inventory, Griffith Ford of San Marcos presents a model designed for stability and versatility. The vehicle's drivetrain is engineered to maintain control across paved roads, uneven terrain, and varied weather conditions. Equipped with all-terrain tires and adaptive control systems, it delivers consistent traction in diverse environments. The 7,000-lb towing capability adds practical strength for hauling recreational equipment or cargo, making the model suitable for a wide range of applications without requiring a separate utility vehicle. For families, the vehicle balances interior space with durability, accommodating passenger comfort while maintaining practical load capacity. This combination reflects a market segment seeking vehicles capable of supporting both everyday travel and extended excursions. This represents a strategic step for Griffith Ford of San Marcos. By expanding its inventory with a model that blends utility and comfort, the dealership demonstrates a commitment to providing vehicles that meet diverse customer expectations. Offering a vehicle with quantifiable performance capabilities allows the company to address a wider range of transportation requirements within its community. This also marks an internal milestone for the Ford dealership as it continues to prioritize vehicles that deliver consistent, long-term value. The 2025 Expedition SUV supports Griffith Ford of San Marcos' approach of maintaining a balanced selection that serves individual drivers as well as families seeking reliable, adaptable transportation options. As Griffith Ford of San Marcos continues to expand its inventory of new and used cars, the presentation of the 2025 Expedition SUV demonstrates the dealership's ongoing commitment to offering vehicles that combine innovation, performance, and reliability. With an eye on the future, the dealership aims to meet the diverse needs of customers by offering cutting-edge vehicles designed to support a variety of lifestyles and driving experiences. About Griffith Ford of San Marcos: Griffith Ford of San Marcos is a full-service Ford dealership proudly serving Central Texas with a comprehensive selection of new and pre-owned vehicles. The dealership offers a complete range of automotive services, including expert financing assistance, certified vehicle maintenance, and genuine Ford parts. Committed to providing a customer-focused experience, Griffith Ford of San Marcos emphasizes quality, transparency, and long-term reliability in every interaction. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260599 SOURCE: GetFeatured A user has made allegations of manipulation and exploitation on X in a tweet that now stands deleted. Actor Vijay Sethupathi, best known for films and shows like Super Deluxe, 96, Vikram Vedha, Maharaja, Merry Christmas, Farzi, has landed in trouble. A user has made allegations of manipulation and exploitation on X in a tweet that now stands deleted. A woman by the name of Ramya Mohan wrote- @VijaySethuOffl has offered Rs. 2L for caravan favors, Rs. 50k for drives and acts like saint on social media. She was used by him for years. This isnt one story. Its many and the media worships these men like they are saints. The drug-sex nexus is real. Not a joke. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Netizens react to viral tweet One user said, I hope you dont back down out of a fight. If what you said is true we need to put people who bully others into submission in place. And weak law enforcement cannot be an excuse to stay silent anymore. This is 2025. A second commented- Why give him a clean chit. Then our cause to expose such elements remains unfulfilled and the Dravidiya patriarchy will continue to laugh in their control. A third said, avoid tagging people or using real names in the future if your intention is to create awareness, bcoz there hv been lot of unwanted and illegal detentions of normal people in the last 4 yrs. Last year, the actor was in Chennai to promote his film Merry Christmas when he was asked a question about Hindi being opposed as a language in Tamil Nadu. Sethupathi said, I was asked a question about Hindi being opposed as a language in Tamil Nadu. Responding to the same, Sethupathi said, Hindi, as a language, was never opposed. I remember you asking the same question to Aamir Khan. Why are you asking this question again and again? We never said no to Hindi. We are against the Hindi imposition. He added, Theres a difference between both. People are learning Hindi here and no one is against that. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The unexpected switch has many calling it the latest chapter in the ongoing Festival Wars, a rising trend where global festivals compete to bag premiere rights for highly potential films In a dramatic turn that has sparked chatter in the festival circuit, Anurag Kashyap has ditched his favorite Cannes choosing instead to premiere his next Film Bandar featuring Bobby Deol, Sanya Malhotra and others at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Apparently the Festival Managers at Toronto were keen that Kashyaps Film premiers coinciding with their 50th Anniversary. The film, boasts a stellar cast led by Bobby Deol, alongside Sanya Malhotra, Saba Azad, and Sapna Pabbi and is Produced by Nikhil Dwivedi. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The unexpected switch has many calling it the latest chapter in the ongoing Festival Wars, a rising trend where global festivals compete to bag premiere rights for highly potential films. While Cannes has long been considered the pinnacle of auteur-driven cinema, TIFFs growing global influence and audience reach have made it an increasingly strategic choice for filmmakers seeking both acclaim and visibility. This shift also marks a significant moment for Bobby Deol, whose career renaissance continues to surprise audiences and critics alike. Fresh off the success of Animal, Bobby is said to be in an entirely new avatar in this film, raw, dark, and unlike anything hes done before. Bandar is being described as a gripping drama with layered characters and hard hitting reality - typical of Kashyaps bold storytelling style. With powerhouse cast adding further depth to the narrative, the project has already started generating buzz as one of the must-watch Indian films at TIFF 2025, and expectations are sky high. Thailand is closely linked to the Jurassic World franchise, not only as a filming location for Jurassic World: Rebirth, but also as the site of a new, immersive Jurassic World attraction in Bangkok. According to reports published in Forbes, Jurassic World: Rebirth, the latest instalment in the Jurassic Park franchise, opened on July 2 and has already grossed more than $318 million worldwide. From the lush landscapes of Krabi, Phang-Nga, and Trang in Jurassic World: Rebirth to real dinosaur fossils across Thailanddiscover where cinema meets prehistory. _Jurassic World: Rebirth_ smashed records at the North-American box-office by minting $91.5 million in its debut. And with this, superstar Scarlett Johansson has made history. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Johansson is one of the most successful and iconic actresses across the globe. She was named as the highest-paid actress of Hollywood back in 2018 and 2019 and has featured multiple times in the Forbes Celebrity 100 List. Why Thailand? With dramatic coastlines, towering limestone peaks, and dense jungle, the filmmakers didnt need to fabricate a settingthe terrain delivered it all and such was the beauty of the film. Starting from the thick forest to the coastlines and the Fossil sites in Khon Kaen, Kalasin, and Chaiyaphum that remains over 100 million years old. No wonder after scouting various locations around the world, the crew finally decided on the gorgeous, otherworldly landscapes of Krabi in Thailand. According to a report the team was originally looking for various locations around the world. The producers considered several destinations from the Dominican Republic and Mauritius to Panama and Costa Rica. In the end, they landed on Krabi, where director Gareth Edwards had previously filmed The Creator in 2023. To build the films world, the crew blended Thailands real landscapes with sets constructed in Malta, New York City, and London. Thailand is closely linked to the Jurassic World franchise A look at the places in Thailand where the scenic movie was shot: Karbi Krabi International Airport has frequent connections from Bangkok. Filming sites can be reached by car or organised tour, with many clustered within national parks or coastal zones. Travellers can step directly into the cinematic world of Jurassic World: Rebirthno green screen required. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD According to reports, Krabis raw beautytowering cliffs, rainforests, waterfalls, and cavesset the stage for Jurassic World: Rebirth. But its more than a movie set. Fossils found in Krabis Khlong Min Formation include Jurassic amber and a sauropod vertebra, making this lush province a true link between cinematic fantasy and ancient reality. Phang-Nga Karst Islands and Coastal Majesty Phang-Nga brought grandeur to Jurassic World: Rebirth, with limestone cliffs and emerald waters forming a natural backdrop for the films dinosaur-inhabited island world. Trang Remote Islands and Golden Light Trang added a quieter, more secluded tone to Jurassic World: Rebirth, with unspoilt islands evoking a lost-world paradise filled with ancient mystery. WATCH the trailer of Jurassic World Rebirth here: (With inputs from agencies) Ten Indian nationals were denied entry at Kuala Lumpur Airport by Malaysias Border Control despite the country offering a visa-free entry. They were part of a larger group of 99 foreign nationals, including those from Pakistan and Bangladesh, who were blocked from entering. What went wrong? The refusal to let the Indian nationals enter wasnt random, it was part of a targeted seven-hour operation by Malaysias Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), aimed at screening passengers from high-risk flights. Image for Representation Ten Indian nationals were turned away at Malaysias Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) this week, even though the country currently allows visa-free entry for Indian passport holders. According to a report by Malay Mail, the Indians were part of a larger group of 99 foreign nationals who were blocked from entering the Asian country by immigration authorities on Monday at KLIA Terminal 1. So, what exactly went wrong? Heres what we know so far. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Why were Indians denied entry into Malaysia? The refusal to let the Indian nationals enter wasnt random, it was part of a targeted seven-hour operation by Malaysias Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), aimed at screening passengers from high-risk flights. During this special drive, immigration officers screened over 400 travellers. Out of these, 99 people were denied entry, including 80 Bangladeshi nationals, 10 Indians, and 9 Pakistanis. All of them were men. In a statement, Malaysian authorities explained the reason behind the move: all 99 travellers failed to clear immigration checks. They were denied as they failed to meet immigration checks, including having suspicious reasons for visiting and travel records, the officials said. Malaysian authorities explained the reason behind the move to deny entry to Indian citizens, saying that they all failed to clear immigration checks. File image Before being deported, each individual was subjected to additional documentation procedures, including background verification, travel document checks, and personal interviews. The AKPS added that all deportations were carried out in accordance with Malaysias legal framework. The agency also made it clear that this wasnt a one-time exercise. Operations like these, they said, will be conducted regularly to clamp down on the misuse of social visit passes and to curb potential human trafficking. What is Malaysias visa-free entry policy for Indians? Despite the recent deportations, Malaysia continues to offer visa-free entry for Indian passport holders, a policy that has been extended until December 31, 2026, under the countrys broader visa liberalisation plan. The initiative is aimed at boosting tourism and economic activity, especially in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and the countrys ASEAN chairmanship in 2025. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This is a golden opportunity for the people of Tamil Nadu and across India to explore Malaysias rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities without the hassle of applying for a visa, said Saravana Kumar Kumaravasagam, Consul General of Malaysia in Chennai, in a statement to The Hindu. Despite the recent deportations, Malaysia continues to offer visa-free entry for Indian passport holders. The initiative is aimed at boosting tourism and economic activity. File imagw/AFP However, the visa-free facility comes with specific entry requirements. To be eligible, Indian travellers must: -Hold a passport valid for at least six months -Carry a return or onward flight ticket -Show proof of accommodation or a detailed itinerary -Have sufficient funds for the duration of the stay -Complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within three days prior to travel. The MDAC is a mandatory online pre-arrival declaration that streamlines the immigration process The relaxed visa norms appear to be working in Malaysias favour. According to Tourism Malaysia, the country welcomed over 1 million Indian tourists between January and November 2024, a 47 per cent jump compared to the same period in 2019 (pre-pandemic) and a 71.7 per cent rise over 2023. This surge, the tourism board said, is largely attributed to the visa-free policy introduced in 2023. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Malaysias tourism board hopes this upward trend will continue, as it works toward making tourism one of the top contributors to the countrys GDP. With input from agencies Home Minister Amit Shah took on the opposition today (July 29) during the Operation Sindoor debate in Lok Sabha. In his remarks, he provided details on Operation Mahadev, which was carried out jointly by the Army, CRPF, and J-K Police to kill three terrorists, including the Pahalgam attack mastermind. He also attacked the Congress, saying that they didnt sit silent like the then PM Manmohan Singh had in the past Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, at the Monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi. PTI Its Day 2 of the Operation Sindoor debate in Parliaments Lok Sabha and the first to take on the opposition in the lower house is Home Minister Amit Shah. His remarks in Parliament come a day after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar presented the governments side on Operation Sindoor, Indias military action following the terror attack in Pahalgam. While the defence minister in his speech said that Pakistan had admitted defeat and offered to cease hostilities, the foreign minister asserted that the military strikes marked a new normal in the countrys fight against cross-border terrorism, and rejected claims of any third-party mediation in cessation of hostilities between India and Pakistan and also added that at no stage, in any conversation with the United States, was there any linkage with trade and what was going on. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The home minister began his remarks with the mention of Operation Mahadev, the joint effort by the Indian Army, the J-K Police and the CRPF which resulted in the death of three terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir. He also slammed the Congress and its members for its remarks on Operation Sindoor as well as raised questions over the Gandhi familys ties to China. 3 terrorists killed in Op Mahadev involved in Pahalgam attack Home Minister Amit Shah told the MPs on Tuesday (July 29) that the three terrorists that were killed in Mondays Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir were linked to the April Pahalgam terror attack. As per Shah, Operation Mahadev began on the same day as the Pahalgam attack. The three A-grade terrorists were identified as Suleman alias Hashim Musa, Jibran and Hamza Afghani. These terrorists were involved in the attack on pilgrims and security personnel. Under Operation Mahadev, our forces acted swiftly and neutralised them, the home minister added. VIDEO | Parliament Monsoon Session: Union Home Minister Amit Shah (@AmitShah) addresses the Lok Sabha on Operation Sindoor. He says, In yesterdays operation, all the three terrorists who killed our innocent citizens were gunned down. The names of these terrorists are Suleman pic.twitter.com/R9huRHJmFV Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 29, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD All three terrorists - Suleman, Afghan and Jibran were killed in yesterdays operation. The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier. Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by those who were kept detained by our agencies, said Amit Shah. Shah also stated that the three terrorists killed in Operation Mahadev were from Pakistan, attacking Congress P Chidambaram for alleging that the Pahalgam terrorists were not Pakistani. Shah said that all three terrorists were registered voters in Pakistan, and the equipment found at their camp was also sourced from Pakistan. Security personnel during a cordon and search operation, near Dachigam in Srinagar district, Jammu and Kashmir. Three terrorists were killed in an encounter in a forest area on the outskirts of Srinagar. PTI We have voter ID of 2 terrorists As part of his remarks on the Operation Sindoor debate, Home Minister Amit Shah explained how they identified the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack and linked that to those killed in Operation Mahadev on Monday. He said that the government has proof and is sure that the three terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack were from Pakistan. We have voter ID of two of the terrorists. We have the rifles used in the attack, he said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD His remarks were a direct response to P Chidambaram who had suggested on Monday that the Pahalgam attackers could have been homegrown and questioned the evidence of Pakistani links. Shah in a point-by-point rebuttal stated that they had acquired the voter ids of two of the men, which was Pakistani origin. Moreover, the chocolates recovered from their possession after Operation Mahadev were also manufactured in Pakistan. Shah further revealed that analysis of ballistics from the Pahalgam attack and Operation Mahadev revealed that the guns used were the same, indicating that those who were killed on Monday were linked to the April attack. Ballistic analysis of the rifles and cartridge cases conclusively established that these were the same weapons used in the attack on our civilians, Shah told the House. The home minister also revealed that cartridge casings recovered from the Pahalgam site had undergone forensic testing in advance. When the terrorists were killed in the Dachigam operation, the recovered rifles M4 American rifles were matched with those shell casings, confirming their use in the Pahalgam massacre. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A damaged portion of the terror camp in Pakistans Muridke near Lahore during Operation Sindoor. File image/Reuters No Pakistani civilians killed in Operation Sindoor Moving away from Mondays Operation Mahadev, Amit Shah then focused on Indias success in Operation Sindoor. He stated that in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, the Modi government gave the Armed Forces complete freedom to execute Operation Sindoor. On April 30, there was a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), in which the security forces were given complete operational freedom. Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7 and carried out between 1:04 am and 1:24 am. In this operation, nine terror sites in Pakistan were destroyed. No Pakistani civilians were killed in this attack. VIDEO | Parliament Monsoon Session: Union Home Minister Amit Shah (@AmitShah) during debate on Operation Sindoor says, "The opposition does politics in everything... Our Army, Air Force and Navy were intact but their (Pakistan) striking capabilities were destroyed... Pakistan had pic.twitter.com/zgsKwPOMWY Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 29, 2025 He further added that India attacked targets not only in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir but also targets which were 100 kilometres inside Pakistan. Amit Shahs statement on civilian casualties is of great significance. This is because Pakistan has on repeated occasions claimed that New Delhi had claimed the lives of over 40 civilians during Operation Sindoor. Unlike Manmohan era, we didnt stay silent Home Minister Amit Shah also used the Operation Sindoor debate in Lok Sabha as an opportunity to slam the Congress and its past governments. Following Operation Sindoor, our DGMO informed the Pak DGMO that India has attacked terror infrastructure on their land as per our right of self-defence. It cannot be like how it happened during Manmohan Singhs government, that terrorists come and kill us and we sit quietly. We killed terrorists who bled India under the Congress government, he said in Lok Sabha. He also slammed the Congress, saying its past governments had weakened the countrys security and also went after Indias first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Yesterday, they (Congress) raised questions about why there was no war. Today, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) exists only because of Jawaharlal Nehru In 1960, they gave 80 per cent of the Indus waters to Pakistan. In 1971, during the Simla Agreement, they (Congress) forgot about PoK. If they had taken PoK then, we would not have to carry out attacks on camps there now. Love for China has passed down 3 generations of Gandhis The home minister in his speech also slammed the Gandhi family, dating all the way back to Nehru, saying it was their love for China that has hurt India. VIDEO | Parliament Monsoon Session: Union Home Minister Amit Shah (@AmitShah) during debate on Operation Sindoor says, "Today, China is a part of UN Security Council, but India is not... PM Modi is trying to get this corrected... the reason behind India not being included in the pic.twitter.com/FVNZ3YIRYI Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 29, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Today, China is in UN Security Council, and India is not. Modi ji is trying his best to get India to become a part of the UN Security Council. Jawaharlal Nehrus stand is responsible for this When our jawans were facing Chinese soldiers in Doklam, Rahul Gandhi was holding a meeting with the Chinese ambassador. This love for China has passed down three generations from Jawaharlal Nehru, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, said Amit Shah in his remarks during the Operation Sindoor debate. With inputs from agencies US President Donald Trump has for years flattered Russias Vladimir Putin, calling him extremely smart and a great leader. However, Trump is taking a harder line on Russia these days. In July, Trump slammed Putin, saying he throws a lot of bullshit at us and gave Russia 50 days to reach a peace agreement with Ukraine. Now, Trump has cut that deadline down to 10 or 12 days. But does the Kremlin care? US President Donald Trump seems to be growing increasingly frustrated with Russia. Reuters/File Photo US President Donald Trump is taking a harder line on Russia these days. Trump has for years flattered Russias Vladimir Putin, calling him extremely smart and a great leader. His remarks date back to before he even became president or ran for office. However, Trump earlier in July suddenly slammed Putin, saying he throws a lot of bullshit at us. Now, Trump has set a new deadline for Russia to come to peace terms with Ukraine. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD But what happened? Why did Trump set this new deadline? What does it mean for Russia? What happened? Trump made the announcement at a press conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Trump said he was giving Putin 10 or 12 days" before he imposes secondary tariffs on Russia. Every time I think its going to end, he kills people, Trump said. Im not so interested in talking anymore.well see what happens. Trump said he doesnt see any progress being made. Im disappointed in President Putin, Trump added. Russia and Ukraine I would have said five times we had a deal. I spoke to President Putin a lot. Got along with him very well, he said. Then President Putin launches rockets into a city like Kyiv and kills a lot of people in a nursing home, or wherever and there are bodies lying all over the streets. Trump even hinted he may announce sanctions to wait, saying there was no reason to wait. Trump said he would formally announce the new deadline tonight or tomorrow. But theres no reason to wait. If you know what the answer is going to be, why wait? Trump asked. Trump has slowly been taking a different tack on Putin these past few months. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In April, Trump took to Truth Social to claim that he is not happy with Putin. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio meets with Russias Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the Asean Foreign Ministers Meeting at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Kuala Lumpur. Reuters Things will happen if the attacks continue, he added. Vladimir, stop! Trump in July rebuked Putin regarding the war with Ukraine a week after United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Trump then announced that he would send weapons to Ukraine via Nato and gave Russia a 50-day deadline to reach a peace deal with Ukraine. He said Russia refused to do so, he would impose tariffs of 100 per cent on Moscow. This gives Russia till 9 August to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine rather than September. What does this mean for Russia? It means Trumps frustration with Russia is growing. Trump, remember, had come to power vowing to end the war between Russia and Ukraine within 24 hours. However, the threat of sanctions alone is unlikely to deter the Kremlin. Russia, after all, has already faced the brunt of sanctions from the West after its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Russia remains hell-bent on conquering Ukraine and taking over vast amounts of its territory. Trump threatening Russias exports is seen as laughable inside the Kremlin. Russias trade with the US is valued at just a few billion dollars. Fifty days! It used to be 24 hours; it used to be 100 days. Weve been through all of this, Lavrov said earlier this month. Russias actual response to Trumps ultimatum will be the same as it has been for the last 500 years to all ultimatums, Sergey Markov, a prominent Russian political analyst, wrote on Telegram. Go away! Go to hell, he added. However, it also remains to be seen if Trump will actually follow through with the deadline. Trump is famous for announcing a deadline of two weeks particularly on tariffs and them pushing them back when no deal is made. Trump in April, speaking of military assistance to Ukraine, added, You can ask that question in two weeks, and well see, but I think were getting very close. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD At the end of April, asked if he trusts Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump says: Well let you know in about two weeks. In May, asked if Putin is tapping him along, Trump responded, Ill let you know in a week. Ill let you know in a few days. Donald Trump threatening Russias exports is seen as laughable inside the Kremlin. Reuters Again in May, Trump said he would decide in two weeks if Ukraine is serious about ending the war: Id rather tell you in about two weeks from now because I cant say yes or no. Ill let you know in about two weeks, within two weeks, Trump said at the end of May about Russia ending the war Were going to find out whether or not [Putin is] tapping us along or not. And if he is, well respond a little bit differently. Earlier in July, Trump said he would impose severe tariffs without a deal in 50 days. Tariffs at about 100%, youd call them secondary tariffs. You know what that means. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD So often has Trump pulled this move, that some came up with the acronym Trump always chickens out (Taco) to describe it, which has invariably infuriated the US president. Ironically, the fallout of Trumps potentially targeting Russias oil exports would hurt China and India the two biggest buyers of crude oil from Moscow. India in particular has saved billions of dollars by buying cheap crude oil from Russia over the past year. Russia in 2024 comprised around a third of Indias total crude imports and nearly a fifth of Chinas oil imports. With inputs from agencies Nasa was founded on July 29, 1958, following US President Dwight D Eisenhower signing the National Aeronautics and Space Act into law. This led to the development of the biggest space agency. On this day in 1981, Prince Charles married Lady Diana Spencer as 750 million people watched worldwide Workers repaint the Nasa logo near the top of Vehicle Assembly Building at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. File image/AP The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa) is behind some of the biggest and most groundbreaking space research done over the years. It was officially established on July 29, 1958, when US President Dwight D Eisenhower signed the National Aeronautics and Space Act into law. If you are a history geek who loves to learn about important events from the past, Firstpost Explainers ongoing series, History Today, will be your one-stop destination to explore key events. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On this day in 1921, Adolf Hitler formally became the leader of the Nazi Party, which ultimately plunged the world into one of the most destructive periods of war. In 1981, then Prince Charles married Lady Diana Spencer at St. Pauls Cathedral in London. Here is all that happened on this day. Nasa was founded The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa) was officially established when US President Dwight D Eisenhower signed the National Aeronautics and Space Act into law on July 29, 1958. Nasa was founded in response to the growing competition with the Soviet Union during the Cold War. The launch of Sputnik 1 by the USSR in October 1957 had shocked the United States and sparked fears of falling behind in space and missile technology. The US needed a coordinated national effort to compete, and Nasa became that answer. President Dwight Eisenhower and Dr T Keith Glennan, the first head of NASA, discuss photos received from the satellite Tires I in Washington. File image/AP Nasa effectively absorbed the existing National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (Naca), which had been established in 1915 to conduct aeronautical research. Nacas expertise, personnel, and facilities formed the core of the new space agency. Elements from other military programs, such as the Army Ballistic Missile Agencys rocket development under Wernher von Braun, were also transferred to Nasa. In its early years, Nasa focused on human spaceflight, leading to the famed Mercury and Gemini missions. These paved the way for the Apollo program, which culminated in the historic Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969, when Neil Armstrong became the first human to walk on the Moon. While the Act was signed on July 29, 1958, Nasa officially opened for business on October 1, 1958. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Hitler became the head of the Nazi party In one of the most defining moments in history, Adolf Hitler officially became the leader of the National Socialist German Workers Party (Nazi Party). His rise to power within the party would set in motion a chain of events that ultimately led to World War II and the Holocaust. Hitler had joined the German Workers Party in 1919, shortly after Germanys defeat in World War I. His oratory skills, propaganda instincts, and fiery nationalism quickly made him a standout figure. The party changed its name in 1920 to the National Socialist German Workers Party (NSDAP), and Hitler began shaping its message around extreme nationalism, anti-Semitism, and anti-communism. By mid-1921, internal disagreements threatened the partys cohesion. Hitler, already popular with the partys rank and file, delivered an ultimatum: he would only stay if he was granted full control as chairman. The party leadership relented, and on July 29, 1921, he was officially appointed Fuhrer (leader) of the Nazi Party. This ascension allowed Hitler to centralise power, eliminate internal dissent, and transform the party from a small, local group into a highly organised and disciplined political force. It paved the way for the Beer Hall Putsch in 1923, his subsequent imprisonment where he wrote Mein Kampf, and ultimately, his appointment as Chancellor of Germany in 1933, leading to the establishment of the Third Reich. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Prince Charles married Lady Diana It was on July 29, 1981, that nearly 750 million television viewers worldwide witnessed the wedding of the century - the marriage of Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer. The wedding took place at St Pauls Cathedral in London, a venue chosen for its capacity and grandeur. Diana, just 20 years old, arrived in a horse-drawn carriage wearing an elaborate ivory silk taffeta gown designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel. The dress, with its 25-foot train, became instantly iconic and set bridal fashion trends for years. Britains Prince Charles speaks with his bride Princess Diana during their wedding ceremony in St Pauls Cathedral, London. File image/AP Attended by 3,500 guests, Britain declared it a national holiday. The event was broadcast in over 70 countries, symbolising not just a union of two individuals, but a spectacle of tradition, glamour, and royal continuity. At the time, the public viewed their marriage as a fairy tale with an aristocratic young woman marrying a future king. However, beneath the surface, cracks were already forming. This Day, That Year On this day in 2005, scientists formally announced the discovery of what was believed to be the 10th planet, later named Eris. The International Atomic Energy Agency was created in 1957. Albania was formally recognised by the major European powers as an independent principality in 1905. The heartbreaking image of a crying Gazan child, with his spine protruding from his skin, in his mothers arms is hard to miss. It has become a symbol of the starvation and hunger crisis unfolding in the enclave. However, is there more to this visual than meets the eye? Are we unaware of the condition of 18-month-old Muhammad Zakariya Ayyoub al-Matouq? Hidaya, a 31-year-old Palestinian mother, carries her sick 18-month-old son Muhammad Zakariya Ayyoub al-Matouq, who is displaying signs of malnutrition, inside their tent at the Al-Shati refugee camp, west of Gaza City. This image has become symbolic of a famine in Gaza. AFP When you think of the hunger crisis in Gaza, theres one image that comes to mind. Its of a woman cradling her crying baby boy while one can see his sharp spine so defined, it might poke though his thin skin. In fact, this viral image, which appeared on the front pages of newspapers around the world and was used by broadcasters including the BBC, CNN and Sky, has now come to become the symbol of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, it seems that this image isnt depicting the whole image. In fact, its become the centre of an information war, with a pro-Israel media outlet claiming that the boy in the image suffers from genetic and other disorders, which has lend to his pitiable condition. So, whats going on? Tale of Muhammad Zakariya Ayyoub al-Matouq Amid the ongoing food crisis in Gaza as a result of Israel reportedly blocking aid, an image appeared of a tiny child in his mothers arms, with the gauntest of bodies. The image of this boy was taken by Ahmed al-Arini and distributed by Anadolu Agency, the Turkish state news service. Speaking of the image, Arini said that the boy in the image is 18-month-old Mohammed Zakariya Ayyoub al-Matouq and it was taken after they were displaced from their home in north Gaza. Hidaya, a 31-year-old Palestinian mother, cradles her sick son in Gaza. This image quickly went viral with Australian PM Anthony Albanese also being moved by it. AFP He further explained that he took the image of the boy in his mothers arms to show the rest of the world the extreme hunger that babies and children are suffering from in the Gaza strip. He added that Muhammad had not received milk, formula or vitamins and was living in a canvas tent, which resembled a tomb. If you look at the photo closely, you will also see that Muhammad is wearing a plastic bag instead of diapers because of the lack of any humanitarian aid and the lack of any medicines, said Arini to BBC. Image goes viral, breaks peoples hearts Soon after Arini clicked the image, the gut-wrenching snapshot of Muhammad soon appeared on the front pages and on media portals to portray the starvation in Gaza. The Daily Express called the visual, a horrifying image encapsulating the maelstrom of human misery gripping Gaza. It further reported, Muhammad (1), weighs the same as a three-month-old baby, as famine slowly snuffs out life Hunger and suffering has now reached a level never seen before with at least 12 children dying from malnutrition in the past 48 hours alone. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Similar versions appeared in different outlets such as The Guardian, NBC News, Daily Mail and the New York Times. The image of the 18-month-old being depicted on the front pages of UK newspapers, The Daily Express and The Guardian. Image Courtesy: @jnascim.info/BlueSky In fact, the NYT in its report quoted Muhammads mother, Hidaya, as saying, I walk the streets looking for food. As an adult, I can bear the hunger, she said. But my kids cant. The report quoting her says that Muhammad was born a healthy child. I look at him and I cant help but cry, she said. We go to bed hungry and wake up thinking only about how to find food, she added. I cant find milk or diapers. Muhammads image was so overwhelming that it even prompted Australias Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to react. For anyone with any sense of humanity, you have to be moved by that, and you have to acknowledge that every innocent life matters, whether it be Israeli or Palestinian, Albanese said. The Australian PM further told ABCs Insiders, A one-year-old boy is not a Hamas fighter, and the civilian casualties and death in Gaza is completely unacceptable. That boy isnt challenging Israels right to existence, and nor are the many who continue to suffer from the unavailability of food and water. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD More than meets the eye However, it now seems that theres more to this image than what has been shown and depicted. Pro-Israel journalist David Collier claims that the viral visual is not the face of famine. It is the face of a medically vulnerable child whose tragic situation was hijacked and weaponised. He claimed that the media outlets chose to ignore the other images that the photographer took which shows his three-year-old brother Joud as being healthy. He adds that Muhammad suffers from cerebral palsy, has hypoxemia, and was born with a serious genetic disorder. He wrote that the 18-month-old has required nutritional supplements since birth. Moreover, a medical report issued in Gaza in May 2025 confirms all of this, he adds. Let me just start with other images the media chose not to use. Photographs of Mohammed with his 3-year-old brother Joud. Both mother and brother are healthy and fed. Any honest journalist should have immediately questioned and reported - what we were actually seeing. 3/13 pic.twitter.com/FaUsVFsqb2 David Collier (@mishtal) July 27, 2025 Collier claimed that by doing this, media outlets were deliberately pushing a deceptive narrative that only serves to benefit Hamas and create fake news. He also called out the New York Times on its report that claimed that Muhammads father was killed by the Israelis when he stepped out to look for food. Turns out he was killed on October 28, 2024. He was killed in a targeted strike on al Qassabeeb street in Jabaliya, wrote Collier in his report. Another pro-Israel monitor Honest Reporting also backed up Colliers claims, which further accused news outlets of failing to reveal the boys reported pre-existing diseases. Every outlet that promoted this false narrative must update their coverage to reflect the full truth: Muhammad has a medical condition, the organisation wrote Sunday. He is not simply a victim of starvation, and the image has been presented in a misleading and incomplete way. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Other such claims prop up But the veracity of the image of Muhammad isnt the only such instance that has emerged amid the ongoing Israel war. Italian newspaper Il Fatto Quotidiano published a front-page photo last Thursday of a malnourished child, headlining it as Is this a child? However, Israels Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) claims that the subject of the photo, five-year-old Osama al-Rakab, suffers from a serious genetic illness that is unrelated to the ongoing war, and is currently undergoing treatment abroad. This is what a modern blood libel looks like: A sick child. A hijacked photo. A lie that spreads faster than truth. His name is Osama al-Raqab. He has cystic fibrosis, a serious genetic illness. Hes been in Italy receiving treatment since June 12. Israel enabled his medical pic.twitter.com/Sh8UBK3HVh Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) July 28, 2025 On June 12, Israeli authorities coordinated his exit from Gaza via the Ramon airport, along with his mother and brother, and he is receiving medical treatment in Italy, COGAT claimed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Tragic images rightfully stir strong emotions, but when theyre misused to fuel hatred and lies, they do more harm than good, read a statement on COGATs English-language X account. Dont let compassion be exploited for propaganda. Check the facts before parroting blame. Starvation widespread in Gaza While disputing claims of the images continue, international agencies and UN organisations claim that Israel is blocking aid, exacerbating desperate conditions for the territorys approximately two million people. The Gaza-based Palestinian Health Ministry has said that the total number of deaths due to hunger in Gaza since the war began on October 7, 2023, have risen to 127, including 85 children. Facing growing international pressure, Israel announced last week that it would begin to allow Arab countries such as Jordan and the United Arab Emirates to resume airdropping aid packages into Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) then announced Sunday that its forces would begin a daily tactical pause for humanitarian purposes in three areas: Gaza City, Deir al-Balah and Musawi. With inputs from agencies Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday confirmed that the three terrorists killed in Operation Mahadev carried out the Pahalgam terror attack. He said this has been established with the aid of forensic and ballistic tests. But what do we know about ballistic matching? How does it work? Indian security officers inspect the site a day after where terrorists indiscriminately opened fire at tourists in Pahalgam. AP File Home Minister Amit Shah has confirmed that the three terrorists killed in Operation Mahadev carried out the Pahalgam terror attack. The three terrorists, including Pahalgam mastermind Hashim Musha aka Suleman Shah, were cornered and killed by Indian security forces in a joint operation on Monday. Shah, speaking in Parliament during a discussion on Operation Sindoor, said this has been established with the aid of forensic and ballistic tests. Security forces went to great extent to establish that identity of terrorists was same as those responsible for Pahalgam attack, Shah said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He confirmed that all three were Pakistani citizens. All three terrorists were Pakistani and we have their voter ID numbers as well. The chocolates recovered from them were also made in Pakistan, he added. But what is the ballistic matching test Shah spoke about? How does it work? How did India establish the link? What is it? First, lets take a look at ballistics the study of projectiles and firearms. Ballistics as a science dates back to the 16th Century. It came into its own during the early part of the 20th Century. The science made several advancements during World War I and World War II. Ballistics is vital when it comes to studying crime scenes. This is because it helps identify which firearms have been used. A fired .38 Special hollow-point bullet viewed from the side, showing the intended terminal ballistics, By Rickochet at English Wikipedia, It can also help prosecute those who committed the crime by being entered as evidence into court. Ballistic matching is done to find out if a specific gun fired a certain bullet or used a specific cartridge. It is done by examining bullet fragments or cartridge cases retrieved at the crime scenes or the weapons themselves. This evidence are then sent to ballistic experts who have gone extensive training, sometimes for years, to perform these duties. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD These experts can then narrow down the type of gun used at a particular scene or match the gun with the casings and the cartridge. How does it work? The experts first examine the evidence retrieved. They use calipers and balances to examine the bullet fragments and shell casings. They also use stereo microscopes and comparison microscopes to find out which bullets have been fired. They also have special equipment which helps them analyse the trigger pull of the firearm and the interior of the barrel. All this helps them determine the calibre of the gun fired. This can be done because most modern guns are built to certain specifications. If the examiners have the weapon, they also look at rifling marks spiral grooves inside the gun barrel that spin the bullet as it exits. They also study the firing pin marks, which is left on the back of the cartridge when the gun fires and Breechface marks which comes from the back part of the gun that presses the cartridge. They also look at extractor and ejector marks that are left when the gun ejects the used cartridge. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Experts also sometimes test-fire the weapons and recover the spent bullets and cartridge cases. They do so firing the weapon into a large tank of water with an opening to retrieve the bullets. However, some people have also expressed scepticism about how accurate ballistics is as a science. A study by the US Defence Departments Forensic Science Centre indicated that examiners got a false positive in every one of 66 cases. They said it could be as high as one in 46. Others have expressed similar worries. A piece in Scientific American noted that a study performed by the Ames Laboratory, know as Ames II, found a false positive rate of 52 per cent in bullets and cartridge cases comparisons. It said researchers who were sent the same evidence, which was later sent to other examiners, came to different conclusions at least two-thirds of the time. Different examiners reached the same conclusions under a third of the time. This, the piece argued, undermines claims of the sciences efficacy. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD How did India establish the link? India in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack had sent the cartridges recovered for forensic analysis. Then, on Monday, after Operation Mahadev, India recovered a cache of weapons from the hideout of the neutralised terrorists. Among the weapons were M-9 and AK-47 rifles. Shah said the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report of the cartridges from the Pahalgam terror attack was already prepared. PTI These were sent to Chandigarh on Monday night via special aircraft to be tested at the Central Forensic Science Laboratory. The weapons recovered were then test fired and their casings collected. Shah said the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report of the cartridges from the Pahalgam terror attack was already prepared. The test results were compared to the earlier reports prepared and were found to be a match. Shah said it has thus been confirmed that these three terrorists had carried out the terror attack in April. He added that six ballistic experts had signed off on the same. Theres no room for doubt. I have the ballistic report in my hand, verified and signed by six top scientists. At 4:46 AM, I received a video call confirming a 100 per cent match between the bullets fired at the site and the rifles recovered during the operation, Shah said in Parliament. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies Uncertainty continues in the case of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, whose execution in Yemen was deferred earlier this month. The claim by the Grand Mufti of India that the womans sentencing was overturned has been refuted by sources in the Indian government. The family of the man Priya killed has also said that no pardon has been granted Has Nimisha Priyas death sentence been overturned? The 38-year-old nurse from Kerala is on the death row in Yemen for killing her business partner. More than two weeks after Nimisha Priyas execution was deferred, the Grand Mufti of India, Kanthapuram AP Abubakar Musliyar, has claimed that the punishment was completely overturned. However, the Indian government and the victims family have refuted the claim. Whats the latest in the case? And is there any truth to the Grand Muftis claim? We explain. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Is Nimisha Priya saved from the gallows? Grand Mufti says On Monday (July 28), the office of the Grand Mufti of India, Kanthapuram AP Abubakar Musliyar, reportedly claimed that Nimisha Priyas death sentence had been officially cancelled. It, however, added that it had yet to receive official written communication from authorities in Yemen. Nimisha Priya was scheduled to be executed on July 16 for killing her business partner, Talal Abdo Mehdi, a Yemeni national, in 2017. However, her sentencing was deferred, and no further date was set. Then came the big claim. The death sentence of Nimisha Priya, which was previously suspended, has been overturned. A high-level meeting held in Sanaa decided to completely cancel the death sentence that was temporarily suspended earlier, according to a statement issued by the Grand Muftis office and quoted by the news agency ANI. The office of Kanthapuram AP Aboobacker Musliyar, who holds the ceremonial title of Grand Mufti of India, reportedly claimed that Nimisha Priyas death sentence was revoked. Image courtesy: Markaz Knowledge City According to reports, the decision to overturn the nurses death sentence was taken at a meeting in the Yemeni capital. Senior Yemeni scholars, appointed by Sheikh Umar Hafeel Thangal at the request of the Indian Grand Mufti, mediated with the rulers of Northern Yemen and international diplomats, it was earlier reported. The meeting was concluded with the complete cancellation of the death sentence. According to Musliyars office, while some key decisions regarding the case have been made, further deliberations were expected. The pending matters, which included a resolution with the family of the murdered Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mehdi, will be finalised through continued discussions, media reports claimed. Who is the Grand Mufti of India? A mufti is a Muslim scholar, an Islamic law expert, qualified to give legal opinions on matters of Sharia. Grand Mufti is the highest-ranking cleric in the country. Musliyar, whose official name is Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad, is a revered figure in the Sunni Muslim sect and has a following not only in India but also in South Asia. The 94-year-old cleric is based in Kerala, the state Nimisha Priya hails. He is widely known as the Grand Mufti of India, though it is not an official title. He is the 10th person to hold the title. A leader in Islamic education, social welfare, and public discourse, he rose to prominence over the years. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad was conferred the Grand Mufti of India title in February 2019 at the Gareeb Nawaz Peace Conference held at New Delhis Ramlila Maidan, organised by the All India Tanzeem Ulama-e-Islam, a national body of Sunni clerics. He is the general secretary of All India Sunni Jamiyyathul Ulama and the Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama, two of Indias most influential Sunni Muslim organisations. He is also chairman of the Markaz Knowledge City project, a private integrated township in his hometown, Kozhikode, which runs educational institutions, charitable organisations, social service centres, and a cultural centre. Musliyar is a regular at global interfaith gatherings and represented Indian Muslim scholars at international forums, including sessions at the United Nations and events organised by Unesco, reports The Hindu. In the past, he has grabbed headlines for his views on the Babri Masjid verdict and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). In 2019, he appealed to the Muslim community to accept the verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi issue. Musliyar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah in March 2020 and urged them to amend the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What is his role in the Nimish Priya case? After Yemeni authorities set July 16 as the date for Nimisha Priyas execution, there was hectic activity going on to delay the sentencing. Politicians in Kerala requested the government to step in, but India does not have a formal diplomatic relationship with the Houthis, the rebel group that controls parts of Yemen, including Sanaa, where Nimisha Priya is lodged in jail. Amid the hectic parlays, Kerala Congress MLA Chandy Oommen reportedly approached the Grand Mufti, requesting him to secure mercy under Islamic law. The cleric reached out to prominent Yemeni Sufi scholar Sheikh Habib Umar bin Hafiz to explore the possibility of obtaining a pardon from the victims family under the Islamic concept of diyah, also known as blood money, according to a report in The Hindu. The Grand Mufti appealed to religious leaders in Yemen to pardon the nurse in exchange for financial compensation. A coordinated effort involving Yemeni tribal leaders, judicial authorities, and religious scholars led to Nimisha Priyas execution being temporarily deferred, the report says. However, a report by The Indian Express pointed to the role of the Indian government in deferring the execution. According to social worker Samuel Jerome Baskaran, who has been leading the negotiations in the case, the decision to postpone the death sentence was taken by the Yemeni government after Abdul Malik Al Nehaya, ruler of the Al Wasab region, met the President of Yemen on July 11. A day later, he agreed to defer to sentencing. The Indian government also got involved in this mission, he had said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What is the Indian government saying about the case now? The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has refuted reports that Nimisha Priyas execution has been revoked. Information being shared by certain individuals on the Nimisha Priya case is inaccurate, MEA sources said today. Nimisha Priya, a nurse from Kerala, was convicted of killing her business partner and Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mehdi in 2017 and was sentenced to death in 2018. What is the victims family saying? The family of the Yemeni businessman called the Grand Muftis claim baseless. In a rebuttal to a statement made by the office of Musaliyar, Mehdis brother, Abdul Fattah Mehdi, denied that a pardon had been granted to Nimisha Priya. Certain preachers who claim to speak in the name of religion step forward to create a false sense of heroism for themselves at our expense, Abdul Fattah said, according to CNN-News18. Talals blood will not become merchandise in a negotiation bazaar. Questioning the claims made by the cleric, he said, Who authorised them, when, and on what basis? He emphasised that under Yemeni law, a death sentence can only be reversed if the victims family accepts blood money a decision his family has not yet made. If any decision is to be made, we are the ones who will make it, he said. What can we expect next in the Nimisha Priya case? Efforts are ongoing to save the nurse from the gallows. However, when the Houthi Supreme Political Council rejected Nimisha Priyas appeal in November 2023, it left a very small window under the Sharia law only the victims family can now forgive her if they were paid blood money. Diplomatic efforts by the Indian government are underway. Indian officials are regularly in touch with jail authorities in Sanaa and the prosecutors office in Yemen, according to reports. For now, Nimisha Priyas fate hangs in balance. With inputs from agencies A Chinese communication device that turned on two days ago helped Indian security officials track down three terrorists inside the Dachigam forest of Jammu and Kashmir. It took a team of highly-trained personnel less than three hours to complete the mission, resulting in the deaths of the three, who were reportedly linked to the Pahalgam attack, including the mastermind Hashim Musa Security personnel keep vigil after after Operation Mahadev in which three terrorists were killed in an encounter, near Dachigam in Srinagar district, Jammu and Kashmir. PTI Those who are gone wont return, but terror must end. We are proud of the Indian Army. The pain will never go, the closure may never come. But at least now, we can sleep a little better knowing that those who killed my husband are no more. These were just some of the reactions from families of the victims of the Pahalgam attack shortly after the Indian Army successfully eliminated three terrorists, including the mastermind of the April 22 tragedy, in an operation dubbed Operation Mahadev on Monday (July 28). STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The operation resulting in the deaths of the terrorists, was launched by the Chinar Corps of the Indian Army in the general area of Lidwas in Jammu and Kashmir. Hours after the operation, the three slain terrorists were identified as Hashim Musa alias Suleiman, widely regarded as the mastermind behind the Pahalgam attack. The other two have also been identified as Yasir, Abu Hamza. All three of them were foreign nationals affiliated with the Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). But how did Indian authorities track these three terrorists down and kill them? Whats the significance of the name behind the operation? We get you all the answers and much, much more. Tracking the 3 terrorists down Ever since the April 22 Pahalgam attack in which 26 people were horrifically killed, the security personnel in Kashmir have been on high alert and been searching for any clues to find those involved in the attack. They finally received a breakthrough 14 days ago when they received suspicious communication. The forces got a clue about a Chinese ultra radio communication being active, after which the operation was carried out. The LeT uses the Chinese radio for encrypted messages and reportedly even used them during the planning and execution of the Pahalgam terror attack. Then two days ago, the group of terrorists activated the communication device once again, allowing for the security officials to pick up their precise location the Dachigam forest area. Official sources revealed that local nomads also provided inputs, helping the forces to narrow down the location of the terrorists. The encounter occurred in General Area Lidwas and drone footage showed three bodies, confirming that three terrorists were neutralised. PTI Trapping the three terrorists Narrowing down their location to the Dachigam forests in Jammu and Kashmir, officials deployed several units in the area to further pinpoint their exact spot. The Dachigam forest has two sides one extending towards Pahalgam in south Kashmirs Anantnag district and another connecting Ganderbal district. Once the terrorists were located, the security personnel launched a drone on Monday in that area to get a clear visual of the terrorists. Once they received visuals, personnel from the Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and Para Special Forces commandos and ascended the Mahadev hill. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Then using the element of surprise, the team encircle the terrorists around 11.30 am and swiftly neutralised them. An NDTV report states that 45 minutes later, a cleansing operation was launched in a two-kilometre radius of the encounter site. And at 12:45 pm, the terrorists bodies were identified and photographed. Sources told India Today that at the time of the encounter, the terrorists were napping and caught completely unaware. OP MAHADEV - Update Three terrorist have been neutralised in an intense firefight. Operation Continues.#Kashmir@adgpi@NorthernComd_IA pic.twitter.com/5LToapGKuf Chinar Corps - Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) July 28, 2025 Weapons, pots at encounter site Amid the cleansing stage of Operation Mahadev, security troops also recovered weapons from the site. Preliminary reports suggest a US-made carbine, an AK-47, 17 rifle grenades, and other materials were recovered. For those who dont know, rifle grenades are explosive devices fired from the barrel or grenade launcher of a rifle, not thrown by hand. They are capable of hitting targets that are over 200 metres away. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The recovery of such weapons indicates that the terrorists were well-equipped and possibly planning another major strike. Eatables and cooking utensils were also spotted at the hideout. Security personnel during the cordon and search operation, near Dachigam in Srinagar district. PTI Reactions to Operation Mahadev The killing of the three terrorists in Operation Mahadev led to many praising and congratulating those involved in it. J&K Lieutenant-Governor Manoj Sinha congratulated the security forces for the Dachigam operation. The police and security forces can provide more details after the operation will be over. Such operations have been ongoing for several months now, jointly carried out by the J&K Police, Army, and CRPF, in which terrorists are being eliminated. Meanwhile, families of the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack said they have received some kind of closure following the killing of the terrorists. Reacting to the news, Vikas Kumrawat, who lost his elder brother in the Pahalgam attack told PTI, We were thinking for a long time why the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack have not been caught yet? We are very happy and relieved with the news of the army killing the mastermind of this attack. This action is a special achievement of our government and the army. In Haryanas Nawal, Rajesh Narwal, father of slain Indian Navy officer Lt Vinay Narwal, praised the Armed Forces for their bravery. I want to salute the Army, our paramilitary and J-K police jawans for their bravery, said Rajesh Narwal. The way they did not care for their lives and hunted them down is not an easy task. I salute them for their bravery. They should be honoured for this, he further said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Significance of name behind Operation Mahadev Carried out jointly by the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the CRPF, whats the reasoning behind the name of the operation? The choice isnt just symbolic but also tactical. Thats because it took place near Mahadev peak, which is part of the Zabarwan Range and holds both strategic and spiritual value. Kashmiri folklore states that this is the path that Lord Shiva took to reach the Amarnath Cave, where he related the Amar Katha (the tale of immortality) to Goddess Parvati. With inputs from agencies Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recalled the 2009 Sharm-el-Sheikh joint statement in Lok Sabha, calling it a grave misstep after the Mumbai terror attacks. Their sharp remarks revived criticism of the meeting between then-PM Manmohan Singh and then-Pakistan PM Yousuf Raza Gilani, which controversially referenced Balochistan and delinked terror from dialogue Pakistan's Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani (L) shakes hands with India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during the 15th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit in the Egyptian Red Sea tourist resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, July 16, 2009. File Image/Reuters The Sharm-el-Sheikh summit long considered one of the most contentious chapters in Indias post-26/11 diplomacy is back in the spotlight during the Monsoon session of the Lok Sabha. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, invoked the July 2009 meeting while discussing Operation Sindoor, sharply criticising the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) for its handling of relations with Pakistan in the aftermath of the Mumbai terror attacks. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Their interventions have revived the criticism of a joint statement issued after talks between then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Pakistani counterpart Yousuf Raza Gilani in the Egyptian resort town of Sharm el-Sheikh on July 16, 2009, a document that not only altered the framing of dialogue between the two countries but also made an unprecedented mention of Balochistan. Sharm-el-Sheikh was a strategic error: Rajnath Singh Speaking on Monday in the Lok Sabha, Singh launched a pointed critique of the previous UPA government, accusing it of blunting Indias position on cross-border terrorism at a time when international momentum was building against Pakistan after the 26/11 attacks. In 2009, the government back then made a mistake in the Sharm-el-Sheikh agreement, Singh told the House, opening the Operation Sindoor discussion. He argued that the joint statement, issued after the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit meeting in Egypt, weakened Indias insistence that any dialogue with Islamabad would hinge on a demonstrable commitment to curb terrorism emanating from its territory. This diluted the terms set that Pakistan will not be allowed to use its land for terrorism, Singh said, drawing a contrast with the earlier stance of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who, he recalled, made it unequivocally clear that any dialogue with Pakistan would be contingent upon a commitment to end terror originating from its soil. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Singh said the UPA missed an opportunity to mount decisive pressure on Islamabad after the Mumbai attacks of November 2008, which killed over 160 people and shocked the world. Quoting directly from the memoir of former President and UPA-era External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee, The Coalition Years, Singh read: Pranab Mukherjee has written in his book The Coalition Years that when the Mumbai attacks happened, India had evidence that the terrorists came from Karachi port. No one in the world believed the excuse of Pakistans non-state actors. He has written, and I quote Amid heated debates within the Cabinet, there was a demand for military intervention which I rejected. , , , pic.twitter.com/sFvyAoL47g Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) July 28, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Singh also recounted a meeting documented by a senior Indian Foreign Service officer, in which then Foreign Secretary Shivshankar Menon proposed a cruise missile strike on the Lashkar-e-Taiba headquarters in Muridke, Pakistan. Hearing this, Mukherjee took off his glasses, cleaned them, and thanked all the officers before concluding the meeting, Singh narrated in Parliament a vignette that, in his view, captured the indecision of the time. Singhs critique extended beyond military restraint. He argued that the governments response to 26/11 had long-term diplomatic costs. Just take a look at the documents of the Brics summit held after that incident; there is no mention of the Mumbai terrorist attacks anywhere, he said, suggesting that India failed to rally global condemnation against Pakistan. He contrasted that with what he described as the more forceful actions of the NDA government after later attacks, referencing the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 air strikes: I believe that if the government back then had taken decisive and tough steps like the 2016 (surgical strike) and 2019 (air strike), Pakistans strategic calculus could have been altered. A powerful and decisive action could have proven to be a significant disincentive for Pakistan and its army-sponsored terrorist organisations. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD People who did nothing are questioning those who acted: Jaishankar Jaishankar challenged critics of the governments handling of Operation Sindoor and turning the spotlight on the UPAs response to earlier crises. We were asked, why did you stop at this time? Why did you not go further? This question is being asked by people who, after 26/11, felt that the best action was inaction, Jaishankar remarked. Speaking in Lok Sabha during special discussion on Indias strong, successful and decisive #OperationSindoor. https://t.co/gJlMRDTFbA Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 28, 2025 In his sharpest attack, he pointed to the reference to Balochistan in the Sharm-el-Sheikh joint statement: In Sharm-el-Sheikh, the then government and the Pakistani Prime Minister agreed that terrorism is a main threat to both countries. Now, today, people are saying America is hyphenating you, Russia is hyphenating you that is what I heard Deepender Hooda ji say. You are hyphenating yourself. You did not need a foreign country to say please link India to Pakistan And worst of all, they accepted a reference to Balochistan in that. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD For Jaishankar, this amounted to a damaging equivalence between victim and perpetrator: Now, here is a country reeling after 26/11, and you are equating Balochistan and 26/11, what happened in Mumbai, and you are saying that the perpetrator and the victim have both got a problem. And then, now you are asking me, why didnt you go further? People who did nothing are asking the Government that did so much, why didnt you do more? Jaishankar noted that the current government had succeeded in bringing down Bahawalpur and Muridke terror sites, declaring: Who thought that terror sites in Bahawalpur and Muridke would be brought down the way they were? He also traced a pattern back further, citing the UPA governments actions after the July 2006 Mumbai train bombings: Some years ago, if you remember Sir, the Mumbai train bombing. The Mumbai train bombing happened in the July of 2006. In September of 2006, three months after the Mumbai train bombing, at Havana, the UPA Government with its Pakistani counterpart condemns all acts of terrorism as though we were both again equal, and agrees that it is a scourge that we need to effectively deal with together. And then they directed again, the resumption of dialogue. So, what I want to highlight is, for the people who did nothing, to have that temerity, that gumption today, to ask a Government which did so much, which brought down Bahawalpur and Muridke, to say why didnt you do more I think its extraordinary. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What happened at Sharm-el-Sheikh in 2009 The Sharm-el-Sheikh meeting took place on the sidelines of the Non-Aligned Movement summit in July 2009, only eight months after the Mumbai attacks. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Pakistans Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani held discussions that led to the issuance of a joint statement a document that became one of the most controversial diplomatic texts in Indias recent history. Pakistans Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani (L) shakes hands with Indias Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during the 15th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit in the Egyptian Red Sea tourist resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, July 16, 2009. File Image/Reuters The statement declared terrorism the main threat to both countries, and included an assurance from Gilani that Pakistan would do everything in its power to bring those responsible for 26/11 to justice. It also recorded that Pakistan had provided an updated status dossier on the investigations of the Mumbai attacks and had sought additional information/evidence, which Singh said was being reviewed by India. Both Prime Ministers recognised that dialogue is the only way forward. Action on terrorism should not be linked to the Composite Dialogue process and these should not be bracketed. Prime Minister Singh said that India was ready to discuss all issues with Pakistan, including all outstanding issues, the joint statement said. However, two elements triggered outrage back home. First, the statement explicitly noted that action on terrorism should not be linked to the composite dialogue process and these should not be bracketed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This effectively delinked dialogue from Pakistans progress on curbing terror a shift from Indias post-26/11 stance that talks could only proceed after credible action against perpetrators. Second, Gilanis mention of Balochistan recorded in the statement provided Islamabad with an opening to publicly accuse India of meddling in its insurgency-plagued province. Returning home, Gilani used the reference to claim that India had tacitly acknowledged involvement, a claim India denied but one that added to the political backlash. Both leaders agreed that the two countries will share real time, credible and actionable information on any future terrorist threats, the statement read. Prime Minister Gilani mentioned that Pakistan has some information on threats in Balochistan and other areas. Both Prime Ministers recognised that dialogue is the only way forward. Action on terrorism should not be linked to the Composite Dialogue process and these should not be bracketed. Prime Minister Singh said that India was ready to discuss all issues with Pakistan, including all outstanding issues. The fallout in India was immediate and intense. Opposition parties branded the joint statement a sell-out and accused the UPA government of compromising Indias position. The BJP declared in Parliament at the time: Waters of the seven seas will not be able to wash the shame. Congress launched a damage-control effort, with senior figures arguing that continued engagement with Pakistan was unavoidable despite the 26/11 attacks. Manmohan Singh defended his stance in Parliament at the time, delivering a statement that framed dialogue as a strategic necessity: We do not dilute our positions or our resolve to defeat terrorism by talking to any country. Other major powers affected by Pakistan-based terrorism are also engaging with Pakistan. Unless we talk directly to Pakistan, we will have to rely on third parties to do so. That route, I submit to this August House, has very severe limitations as to its effectiveness, and for the longer term the involvement of foreign powers in South Asia is not something to our liking. I say with strength and conviction that dialogue and engagement is the best way forward. For the current NDA government, it is a case study in what it portrays as UPA-era indecision a moment when India, in its view, squandered the opportunity to decisively confront Pakistan after the Mumbai attacks. Also Watch: With inputs from agencies Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed Parliament on Day 2 of the debate on Operation Sindoor. Speaking for more than 1 hour and 30 minutes, he clarified that no world leader told India to stop Operation Sindoor. He tore into the Congress and took a jibe at Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif. Here are the key takeaways from the prime ministers speech in Parliament Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech came on that same day that Home Minister Amit Shah announced that India had established that the three terrorists killed in Operation Mahadev had carried out the Pahalgam attack. File Photo/PTI Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Day 2 of the Operation Sindoor debate in Parliament, addressed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. Modis speech came on that same day that Home Minister Amit Shah announced that India had established that the three terrorists killed in Operation Mahadev had carried out the Pahalgam attack. It also came on the same day that Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on the Modi-led BJP government at the Centre. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD But what did Modi say in his speech that went over 90 minutes? What are the key takeaways from the prime ministers speech in Parliament? Lets take a closer look JD Vance reached out Modi during his speech mentioned that on May 9, days after the Operation Sindoor, US Vice-President JD Vance attempted to get in touch with him. Modi said he could not speak to Vance because he was busy in a meeting. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice President JD Vance. Image Courtesy: PMO On May 9, JD Vance tried to speak to me. I couldnt take his calls because I was busy in a meeting. Then, I called him back and he told me that Pakistan was going to launch a big attack on India, Modi said. He warned Vance that any such attempt by Pakistan would backfire. If they attack, we will launch a bigger attack. I said their goli will be retaliated with our gola, Modi said. . I conveyed to the US that any misadventure by Pakistan would invite an even stronger response," he added. Here to put out side of India Modi during his speech by slamming the Congress Party and the oppositions remarks on Operation Sindoor. Rahul on Tuesday had taken the government to task for its handling of Operation Sindoor, claiming the operation was an exercise to protect PM Modis image. Modi hit back strongly at Rahul and the Congress. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD I am here to put out the side of India. I am here to show the mirror to the people who cant see the side of India, Modi said. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had slammed the Modi government on Tuesday. PTI The country is seeing that India is becoming self-sufficient but it is also seeing that while India is progressing, the Congress is relying on Pakistan for issues. Congress is importing issues from Pakistan, Modi said. Modi has repeatedly accused the Congress of adopting Pakistans position on issues and undermining Indias national security. On May 10, we stopped the action under Operation Sindoor. Many things were said against it. Some people dont believe what the Army says but they believe what Pakistan is saying, Modi added. He said Pakistan attacked India with 1,000 missiles and drones which would have caused massive destruction if they had landed. Thankfully, they were destroyed in the skies, Modi added. Modi said very Indian is proud of it, but the Congress members were waiting for him to slip up. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Modi pointed out that Congress party from many weeks was asking about the Pahalgam terrorists. Then, yesterday, when Indian forces killed the terrorists during Operation Mahadev they asked why it happened on this day. At a time when our forces are engaged in a battle of resolve, some are playing politics. Todays warfare includes narratives and information. Weakening the morale of our troops through misinformation helps the enemy," Modi said. No world leader told us to stop Modi also said that no world leader told India to stop. No global leader told us to stop," Modi said. Rahul had dared Modi to publicly refute Trumps claim that he had intervened between India and Pakistan to get a ceasefire. Donald Trump said 29 times that he stopped the war. If PM has even 50 per cent of Indira Gandhis courage, he should stand up in Parliament and say Donald Trump is lying, he never mediated any ceasefire, Rahul said. If he has the courage, he will say here that Donald Trump is a liar, he added. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Rahul had dared Modi to call Trump a liar on the floor of the House. Why is the Prime Minister silent? If Trump is lying, say it. Say it in Parliament. Trump had claimed he mediated a ceasefire between the two nations by using a potential trade deal as a bargaining chip. We had said from day one that our action was non-escalatory, Modi reitierated. There has been a lot of discussion on foreign policy and the global support India received after Pahalgam and Op Sindoor but the truth is no country in the world stopped India from acting to protect itself. In fact, out of 193 countries only three supported Pakistan. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed he initiated a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Reuters/File Photo Modi added that India had avenged the April 22 Pahalgam attack in 22 minutes. India launched its operation on the intervening nights of May 6 and 7. In 22 minutes our forces avenged April 22, Modi added. The operation is still on. Indias forces are acting with full confidence. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Modi also took a jibe at Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during his speech. Modi, though he did not mention Sharif by name, said some were swimming when India was conducting its strikes. Sharif had admitted to doing so during Indias Operation. Gave free hand to forces Modi also countered the opposition narrative that the government lacked the political will to fight Pakistan. I was abroad on April 22. I came back and as soon as I came back, I called a meeting. In the meeting, we directed that we need to give an apt response to terror. We gave a free hand to the forces, Modi said. Rahul had earlier in the day accused the government of forcing the armed forces to fight Operation Sindoor with one hand tied behind their backs. Modi said India brought Pakistan to its knees. When Pakistan decided to stand with the terrorists, Indian forces launched an action that Pak would remember for years. On May 9, our missiles were launched, forcing Pakistan on its knees, Modi said. The prime minister added that Pakistan was left begging for a ceasefire. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD They asked us to stop the war, Modi added. Pakistan then called our DGMO and requested to stop, saying bahut maara, ab zyada maar jhelne ki takat nahi hai, please hamla rok do. Pahalgam was height of cruelty Modi also described the Pahalgam terror attack as the height of cruelty. What happened in Pahalgam on April 22 was cruel. The way terrorists killed the people after asking their religion was the heights of cruelty, said PM Modi. According to eyewitnesses, the terrorists during the Pahalgam attack had enquired about the tourists religions particularly the men. Jammu and Kashmir Police had released sketches of Pahalgam attackers. Hashim Musa seen in the middle. X/@AnantnagPolice They also asked some to recite Islamic verses and shot dead those who are unable to do so. Modis remarks came on the same day that Shah announced that India had confirmed it had killed the terrorists who carried out the Pahalgam attack. Shah said India did so via forensic and ballistic evidence. Demolished terror bases belonging across Pakistan Modi added that Indias armed forces had demolished terror bases belonging to the JaisheMohammed, LashkareTaiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen across Pakistan. India during Operation Sindoor had launched its deepest ever strikes since the 1971 war. This included strikes in Pakistans Punjab province with targets in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sialkot, and Sheikhupur being hit. The targets were between 40 and 100 kilometres inside Pakistani territory. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India said it had taken out nearly two dozen terror camps and killed over 100 terrorists. With Operation Sindoor, India became a rare nuclear state to wage a successful war short of the nuclear threshold. Representational image: Moneycontrol Modi also spoke about how India had refused to give in to Pakistans nuclear blackmail. We proved that India wont bow to Pakistans nuclear blackmailing. Their air bases are still in the ICU," Modi added. Modi in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor on May 12 had said that Pakistans nuclear blackmail would no longer be tolerated. He said terrorist attacks on India would result in a befitting reply and India would give its response on its own terms. Modi also said that India had during Operation Sindoor showed the world the strength of its indigenous weapons. During Operation Sindoor, for the first time the world saw the strength of Made-in-India, Modi said. From drones to missiles, our entire operation was powered by Made-in-India systems. The world is witnessing the strength of a self-reliant India, he said. Modi also added that Pakistans weapons stood exposed. He also warned Pakistan against engaging in any further misadventures. Operation Sindoor is not over. It will continue for as long as necessary. India will decide the terms and on its own timeline and on its own terms," Modi added. Modi slams Nehru over PoK, Indus Water Treaty Modi also slammed former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Modi said the opposition was asking why PoK had not returned to India. He asked under whose government it happened. Modi said the answer is clear and that it happened under Nehrus leadership. The people who are asking that why we didnt take back PoK, I want to ask them whose government let Pakistan capture PoK. The answer is clear. Whenever I speak of Nehru, the Congress and its ecosystem get jittery, Modi said. They said Aksai Chin was barren and gave it away, he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed Jawaharlal Nehru in his speech. He said some poor decisions were made after Independence when Congress gave most-favoured nation status to Pakistan all the while Pakistan kept sending terrorists to India. He said it was Nehru who signed the Indus Water treaty. He pointed out that it was Nehru and the Congress who decided to go to World Bank on the issue of Indus Water Treaty. He said it was Nehru who agreed to give Pakistan 80 per cent water. If the treaty was not signed, there were major projects on the western river. There was no scarcity of water. Even after that, Nehru gave Pakistan crores of rupees so that it can build canals, Modi said. Modi said his administration ended one way traffic from Pakistan, closed the Atari border and removed most favoured nation status. It remains to be seen how the Congress and opposition will respond to the prime ministers speech. With inputs from agencies The US has landed in soup following its decision to destroy womens contraceptives worth nearly $10 million. The decision has been condemned by doctors and aid groups alike, with some calling it a wasteful attack on womens rights Research has estimated that the USAID cuts will lead to the deaths of 14 million people by 2030. File image/AP The US administrations decision to destroy nearly $10 million worth of womens contraception products has sparked furious condemnation from doctors and aid groups, who have slammed the move as a wasteful attack on womens rights. The contraceptives are being stored in Belgium and are reportedly planned to be incinerated in France. Both European countries are under pressure to prevent the destruction. What has the US announced? On July 18, British newspaper The Guardian cited two US Congress sources as saying that President Donald Trumps administration planned to destroy $9.7 million worth of contraceptives, which are mostly long-acting, such as IUDs and birth control implants. The contraceptives intended for some of the worlds poorest countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa are stored in a warehouse in the Belgian city of Geel. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD They are to be incinerated at the end of July, according to The Guardian report. A US State Department spokesperson told AFP this week that a preliminary decision was made to destroy certain birth control products from terminated Biden-era USAID contracts. Trumps administration dismantled USAID, the countrys foreign aid arm, after returning to the White House in January, replacing President Joe Biden. The State Department spokesperson said the destruction will cost $167,000 and no HIV medications or condoms are being destroyed. Why? The spokesperson pointed AFP to a policy that prohibits providing aid to non-governmental organisations that perform or promote abortions. The Mexico City Policy, which critics call the global gag rule, was first introduced by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 and has been reinstated under every Republican president since. The Trump administration has also slashed foreign aid, with the Senate this month approving a package that cut around $8 billion in international funding, much of it intended for USAID. Research has estimated that the USAID cuts will lead to the deaths of 14 million people by 2030. Doctors Without Borders called it a callous waste. Pixabay Earlier this month, the US also incinerated nearly 500 metric tons of high-nutrition biscuits, which were meant to keep malnourished children in Afghanistan and Pakistan alive. Trump has also repeatedly moved to restrict abortion access in the United States, taking credit for the Supreme Court overturning the nationwide right to abortion in 2022. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The US State Department also suggested to the Guardian that the contraceptives were nearing the end of their shelf life. However, media reports have since said that the products expire between April 2027 and September 2031. What are the alternatives? Belgiums foreign ministry told AFP that it has initiated diplomatic efforts with the United States embassy in Brussels about the contraceptives. The government is exploring all possible avenues to prevent the destruction of these products, including temporary relocation solutions, it added. The international organisation MSI Reproductive Choices said it had offered to purchase, repackage, and manage logistics at our expense, ensuring the products reach those in need. However, this offer was repeatedly rejected, it said in a statement. The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) made a similar offer at no cost to the US government that was also turned down. What are people saying? New Hampshires Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen pointed to the Trump administrations stated goal of reducing government waste, saying the contraceptives plan is the epitome of waste, fraud and abuse. Shaheen and Democratic Senator Brian Schatz have introduced a bill aiming to prevent further US aid from being wasted. The IPPF said the contraceptives plan is an intentional act of reproductive coercion. Doctors Without Borders called it a callous waste. MSI advocacy director Sarah Shaw said it was an ideological assault on reproductive rights, and one that is already harming women. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The head of the French Family Planning group, Sarah Durocher, observed that last year, France became the first country to enshrine the right to abortion in its constitution. France has a moral responsibility to act, she said. French Green leader Marine Tondelier signed an open letter calling on President Emmanuel Macron to stop the contraceptives from being destroyed. Our country cannot be complicit, even indirectly, in retrograde policies, the letter read. Contacted by AFP, the office of the French presidency declined to comment. For the first time since 2008, the US is believed to have redeployed nuclear weapons to the UK, reportedly delivering B61-12 bombs to RAF Lakenheath. A tracked flight from Kirtland Air Force Base and major upgrades at the base point to a long-term nuclear mission a clear message to Russian President Vladimir Putin amid the war in Ukraine RAF Lakenheath is primarily used as a United States Air Force (USAF) base. It's the largest US Air Force base in Europe and serves as a hub for combat airpower and support operations. Image/Lakenheath Alliance For Peace For the first time since 2008, the United States is believed to have redeployed nuclear weapons to Britain, a development that could reshape Natos nuclear posture in Europe. Evidence gathered from open-source flight tracking, defence experts, and Pentagon planning documents suggests that the US delivered B61-12 thermonuclear bombs to RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk earlier this month, reported Bloomberg. On July 16, observers recorded an unusual movement: a US Air Force C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft departed from Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico the US militarys principal nuclear weapons hub and flew directly to Lakenheath. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What made the mission stand out was that the planes transponder remained switched on, broadcasting its identity and location for all to see. The aircraft was part of the Prime Nuclear Airlift Force, a specialised unit responsible for moving nuclear weapons. Such missions are typically shrouded in secrecy, but this flight left an unmistakable trail. Speaking to Bloomberg, defence analyst William Alberque, a senior fellow at the Pacific Forum, suggested the flights visibility was intentional: This is a down payment that theres more to come on shifting Natos deterrence posture toward strengthening. Returning US nuclear weapons to the UK is no small feat. The flight that raised the alarm Investigation into the aircrafts journey provided critical clues. The C-17 with the call sign Reach 4574 (RCH4574) first took off from LewisMcChord Air Base in Washington state, then crossed the continental US to Kirtland, reported UK Declassified. The base houses the Kirtland Underground Munitions Maintenance and Storage Complex, the worlds largest nuclear weapons storage site, containing gravity bombs and warheads for the US arsenal. Read the inside story of how the US Air Force secretly delivered nuclear weapons to Lakenheath Air Base last week: https://t.co/7gI9G5GSms @Cnduk @ScottishCND @EDP24 pic.twitter.com/Zzqdouu00W Nukewatch (@NukewatchUK) July 22, 2025 Observers from Nukewatch UK, a monitoring group, tracked the mission and reported that the aircraft almost certainly loaded up with a cargo of anything up to 20 newly manufactured B61-12 nuclear weapons. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Midway through the trip, the pilot told ground control that the aircraft had haz cargo hazardous cargo on board. The flight landed at Lakenheath Air Base on July 17 at 12:50 pm local time. During its time on the ground, the base enforced an unusual security protocol: no other flights took off or landed, and a strict two-and-a-half nautical mile no-fly zone was imposed around the base. Armed police are patrolling outside RAF Lakenheath as the US air force reportedly transfers more nuclear bombs to British soil with three times the power of Hiroshima. Photo via @NukewatchUK: pic.twitter.com/Fg8FwYgabZ Declassified UK (@declassifiedUK) July 24, 2025 Two days later, on July 18, the aircraft departed and returned to Lewis-McChord, its mission complete. Hans Kristensen, who directs the Nuclear Information Project at the Federation of American Scientists, was unequivocal: There are strong indications that the US has returned nuclear weapons to the UK. Why the B61-12 matters At the heart of the reported deployment is the B61-12, the latest version of a nuclear gravity bomb first developed during the Cold War. Unlike earlier models, this modernised version is equipped with a guidance tail kit that significantly improves its accuracy. The weapon has a variable yield ranging from 0.3 kilotonnes to 50 kilotonnes meaning it can deliver a highly targeted strike or a far more devastating blast, depending on the setting. For comparison, the bomb dropped on Hiroshima in 1945 had a yield of about 15 kilotonnes, making the B61-12s maximum output more than three times as powerful. These bombs can be carried by several aircraft, including US and Nato jets, and soon by the F-35A fighters that Britain is now acquiring. The UK Ministry of Defence announced in June that it would buy at least 12 new F-35As, specifically citing their ability to carry B61-12 bombs. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD An updated UK Ministry of Defence policy paper reinforced the connection to Natos broader nuclear strategy, stating that Natos nuclear deterrence also relies on US nuclear weapons deployed in Europe and supporting capabilities and infrastructure provided by Allies. The same document confirmed a significant shift for the UK Royal Air Force, noting that This decision reintroduces a nuclear role for the RAF for the first time since the UK retired its sovereign air-launched nuclear weapons after the Cold War. Upgrades at RAF Lakenheath point to long-term plans RAF Lakenheath, where the bombs are believed to have been delivered, has a long history with US nuclear weapons, hosting them for more than half a century from 1954 until 2008. Documents from the US Department of Defence show that the base has been undergoing major upgrades for years, hinting at preparations for a renewed nuclear mission. Budget filings revealed multimillion-dollar investments in surety projects the Pentagon term for measures ensuring nuclear weapon security and reliability. One notable project is a 144-bed surety dormitory, now under construction and expected to be finished by February 2026. The justification cited the influx of airmen due to the arrival of the potential Surety mission and the bed down of the two F-35 squadrons, revealing that additional housing was needed for junior personnel. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Procurement records indicate new equipment orders linked to what the Pentagon itself referred to as a nuclear mission at RAF Lakenheath. A calculated message to Putin The timing of the suspected deployment has raised eyebrows. US President Donald Trump has recently taken a harder stance on Russia, agreeing to send Ukraine additional Patriot missile systems via European intermediaries and threatening to impose secondary tariffs on Moscow if it fails to agree to a ceasefire soon. Just days before the suspected nuclear transfer, Trump warned that he was disappointed in Putin and hinted that the deadline for compliance could be shortened. Defence expert Sidharth Kaushal of the Royal United Services Institute linked the deployment to NATO strategy, telling Bloomberg: Capabilities such as the B61 can contribute to limiting the impact of Russias large advantage in theatre-level nonstrategic nuclear weapons. Both Washington and London have remained silent on the matter, consistent with their longstanding policy of neither confirming nor denying the presence or location of nuclear arms. Groups such as the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) have urged UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to clarify the situation to Parliament, citing the security implications of having US nuclear bombs back on British soil. Meanwhile, experts point out that control of these weapons remains firmly in American hands. Under established US procedures, only the US president can authorise their use regardless of where they are stored. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD According to analysts, the shipment also means the B61-12 is now fully deployed across seven bases in six Nato countries. With inputs from agencies A 30-year-old woman in Uttar Pradeshs Bulandshahr was found to have an extremely rare intrahepatic ectopic pregnancy. In this condition, the foetus grows in the liver and not in the uterus.This was revealed during an MRI scan; this could be Indias first documented one The UP woman had intrahepatic ectopic pregnancy, a condition so rare that experts believe this could be the first such case ever documented in India. Image for Representation. Pixabay Doctors in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, were left stunned after an MRI scan of a 30-year-old woman revealed something highly unusual, she was 12 weeks pregnant, but the foetus wasnt in her uterus. It was growing in her liver. The woman had unknowingly developed intrahepatic ectopic pregnancy, a condition so rare that many doctors go their entire careers without encountering it. Experts believe this could be the first such case ever documented in India. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Heres what we know so far about this baffling medical case, how it was discovered, and what it means for the patient moving forward. What is intrahepatic ectopic pregnancy? An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants itself outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tubes. But in this case, the foetus made its way to the liver, a scenario that medical experts say is extremely rare. When a pregnancy develops inside the liver, its termed an intrahepatic ectopic pregnancy, a condition so uncommon that only eight such cases have ever been reported worldwide so far, in countries including China, Nigeria, the United States, and parts of Europe. Dr KK Gupta, a radiologist at a private imaging centre in Meerut, who uncovered it while carrying out the MRI abdomen test of the woman, told News18, When I saw the scan, I could not believe my eyes. The foetus was embedded in the right lobe of the liver, and there were clear cardiac pulsations. I have never seen such a case in my career, and according to available data, this might be Indias first intrahepatic ectopic pregnancy." How did the case come to light? The breakthrough came after the woman endured weeks of persistent abdominal pain and vomiting. With no clear answers from initial tests, doctors decided to go a step further and advised an MRI scan of the abdomen, a test typically used when ultrasound results are inconclusive. The scan was carried out at a private imaging centre in Meerut, under the supervision of Dr KK Gupta, a senior radiologist known for his decades of experience in advanced imaging. Unlike a regular ultrasound, the MRI offered detailed, high-resolution images of the abdominal organs, layer by layer. What it uncovered left even seasoned professionals stunned. We observed a well-formed gestational sac inside the right lobe of the liver, Dr Gupta told News18. The foetus measured approximately 12 weeks in gestational age. Most strikingly, the scan confirmed active cardiac pulsations, establishing that the foetus was alive. At the same time, the uterus was completely empty, ruling out a normal intrauterine pregnancy, he explained. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD When a pregnancy develops inside the liver, its termed an intrahepatic ectopic pregnancy. Image courtesy: News18 Dr Gupta further detailed that the foetus appeared embedded deep into the parenchymal tissue of the liver, with blood vessels from the organ supplying nutrition to the sac. This confirmed that the pregnancy had implanted directly into the hepatic tissue. How dangerous is it? Extremely. The liver is one of the most vascular organs in the human body, meaning it has a dense network of blood vessels and a large blood supply. While this may allow a foetus to survive temporarily by drawing nourishment from the organ, it also makes the condition incredibly risky for the mother. A pregnancy growing inside the liver can lead to life-threatening complications, such as massive internal bleeding or liver rupture, especially as the foetus continues to grow. If not diagnosed and managed in time, the consequences could be fatal. Dr Jyotsna Mehta, a renowned gynaecologist and obstetrician based in Lucknow, told News18 that in some similarly rare cases around the world, doctors have tried to remove the foetus surgically while leaving the placenta intact and later shrinking it with medication to control blood loss. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Each decision has to be highly individualised, and such surgeries demand extraordinary coordination between radiologists, gynaecologists, and liver surgeons," Dr Mehta explained. Whats next for the UP woman? The woman is currently under close medical supervision as doctors work to determine the safest way forward. Given the high risk involved, a multidisciplinary team has been assembled, comprising obstetricians, hepatobiliary surgeons, radiologists, and anaesthesiologists, to plan a highly complex and delicate surgery. While the final outcome will depend on how well the surgery proceeds, one thing is already certain: This case has made medical history. With input from agencies Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed in the Lok Sabha that three terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack were killed by security forces in a joint operation by the Army, CRPF, and J&K Police Indias Home Minister Amit Shah has confirmed while speaking in the Lok Sabha that three terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack have been killed by security forces. He also confirmed that there were three Pakistani nationals involved in the attack. In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, Shah said. Details of the Operation Mahadev Shah said that security personnel from the army and the IB kept moving through the terrain to intercept their signals. Earlier, it was reported that Operation Mahadev was initiated based on intelligence inputs gathered over 15 days, beginning with the detection of a Chinese satellite phone in the Baisaran area on July 11. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On July 22, their presence in the area was finally confirmed. The Army, CRPF, and Jammu & Kashmir Police jointly carried out a coordinated operation to surround them. Shah said the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had already arrested those who had provided shelter to the terrorists. When the terrorists bodies were brought to Srinagar, those arrested were made to identify them and they confirmed the identities of all three, Shah stated. The home minister said that cartridge cases were recovered from the attack site, and their FSL had already been conducted in advance. The terrorists were in possession of AK-47s and M9 Carbines. When the terrorists were killed yesterday, their rifles were recovered, and the cartridges found with them were from M9 American rifles. A ballistic comparison of the recovered rifles and shell casings confirmed that these same three weapons were used in the attack on our civilians, Shah stated. He stressed that six scientists have cross-checked, and they are 100 per cent sure that the bullet was fired from this rifle. Takes a dig at opposition Amit Shah meanwhile took a dig at opposition, saying they didnt seem to be happy after hearing the news. I had expected that when the opposition heard this news, there would be a sense of satisfaction across both sides government and opposition. But even after hearing this news, you (the opposition) show no sign of happiness. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Operation Sindoor debate: Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed anti-terror investigation agency, the NIA, while giving details of the killing of Pahalgam attackers in the Lok Sabha. Shah said the NIA has attained a conviction rate of 96 per cent. Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, at the Monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi. PTI Indias Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday explained the rationale behind entrusting the investigation of the Pahalgam terror attack to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) saying that the agencys exceptional conviction rate and proven capabilities in handling terrorism-related cases made it the most appropriate choice. Twenty-six people, most of them being tourists, were massacred in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam at a popular meadow by Pakistani terrorists on April 22. The terror attack sparked international outrage as terrorists chose their victims by ascertaining their religious identities. The victims were male, ensuring that they were killed while women accompanying them watched on helplessly. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Shah was speaking in the Lok Sabha during the parliamentary debate on Operation Sindoor, the military campaign India launched in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack to dismantle infrastructure of terrorism in Pakistan. The strikes led to a four-day India-Pakistan military clash. During his speech, Shah confirmed that the three Pakistani terrorists who carried out the Pahalgam terror attack were neutralised by the Indian security forces on Monday, the first day of the parliamentary debate on Operation Sindoor. The identities of the slain terrorists and their connection with the Pahalgam attack were ascertained through due forensic processes, Shah told the lower house of Parliament. He said, We now have proof that they were Pakistanis and were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack. The terror case is being probed by the NIA. NIAs conviction rate key to the decision The Union home minister pointed to the NIAs extraordinary conviction rate of over 96 per cent in terrorism cases as a central reason for assigning the sensitive Pahalgam probe to the agency. Shah said, I would also like to say a little about the NIA investigation. The day Lashkar-e-Taiba and its affiliate TRF claimed responsibility, we immediately decided that the investigation would be handed over to the NIA. Because the NIA is a globally recognised agency that specialises in scientifically investigating terrorism cases and securing convictions, with a conviction rate of over 96 per cent. We handed the investigation to the NIA immediately. Earlier in December 2024, a Press Information Bureau release from the Ministry of Home Affairs last December, of the 147 cases where trials had concluded, 140 resulted in convictions, bringing the overall conviction rate to approximately 95.23 per cent. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Shah made it clear that this feat is not just a numerical achievement but an endorsement of the NIAs rigorous investigative methods and legal preparedness. He also highlighted how the agency consistently secures justice in complex cases through structured prosecutions and detailed forensic and financial investigations. A landmark year for NIA The NIAs 2024 performance was described by agency officials as one of its most successful years. The NIA data show that the agency achieved a 100 per cent conviction rate in all completed terror trials in 2024. It got conviction from courts for 68 accused in 25 cases and filed charge-sheets against 408 individuals across 80 newly registered cases. The agency arrested 210 people across a variety of crimes, including Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), North East insurgency, jihadi terrorism and human trafficking. LWE cases dominated the entire lot, with 28 cases registered and 69 arrests made. The data show the agencys increasing role in managing not just religiously motivated terrorism but also insurgency and organised criminal networks that threaten national stability. Dismantling financial and logistical ecosystems Another factor believed to have influenced the home ministrys decision was the NIAs record in disrupting the financial and logistical structures that support terrorism. The agency attached 137 properties worth Rs 19.57 crore under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act during 2024. These actions were aimed at striking at the operational core of various groups by choking off their funding and material support. Shah viewed such capabilities as essential in the Pahalgam investigation, where dismantling support networks was as important as identifying the attackers. Quick turnaround in high-profile cases The agency has also demonstrated rapid response capabilities. In 2024, the NIA filed a charge-sheet against the Pakistan-based chief of Babbar Khalsa International, Wadhawa Singh and five others within months of the assassination of VHP leader Vikas Prabhakar in Punjab. In another instance, it secured the conviction of four terrorists, including Kulwinderjeet Singh alias Khanpuria, in a terror conspiracy case involving multiple attacks across Delhi and Punjab in the 1990s. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Such swift and effective actions were seen by the home ministry as reinforcing the NIAs operational credibility, making it a natural choice for high-stakes cases like the Pahalgam attack. Structural strength and technical expertise According to a statement tabled in the Rajya Sabha in December 2024 by Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, the NIA has significantly expanded its organisational capacity in recent years. Since 2019, the government has created 810 new posts, including senior leadership roles and technical experts in cyber forensics. The agency now operates 24 offices across India and has been allocated 105 specialist posts to support investigations in areas like cyber terrorism and explosives. The establishment of the National Terror Data Fusion & Analysis Centre (NTDFAC) has also enhanced its ability to use big data analytics and digital forensics, thereby improving both speed and accuracy in investigations. Coordination with state and global agencies The NIA has also increased coordination with domestic and international agencies. It organised 36 Capacity Building Training Programmes and 19 similar sessions in collaboration with foreign organisations between 2019 and 2024, training thousands of officers, the PIB release said. This increased collaboration strengthens the NIAs capability to investigate transnational terror networks relevant in cases like Pahalgam, where cross-border involvement is suspected. PM Modi hailed Operation Sindoor as swift justice, saying April 22 Pahalgam attack was avenged in just 22 minutes on May 6-7 night Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the Lok Sabha during a debate on Operation Sindoor on Tuesday. ANI April 22 was avenged in 22 minutes on the night of May 67, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared in the Lok Sabha on Monday, as he addressed the House during the debate on Operation Sindoor Indias military response to the Pahalgam terror attack. He said right after Pahalgam terrorist attack, Pakistan Forces had this idea that India would indeed take a major action. #WATCH | Discussion on Operation Sindoor | PM Narendra Modi says, "...Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks." "Right after Pahalgam terrorist attack, Pakistan Forces had this idea that India would indeed take a major action. They started pic.twitter.com/6GcxPcS0As ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD They started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of 6-7 May, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything. Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks, said PM Modi. The Prime Minister described the April 22 incident, in which terrorists shot civilians after asking about their religion, as an act of extreme cruelty and a deliberate conspiracy to provoke communal unrest. This was a well-thought-out attempt to throw India into the fire of violence a conspiracy to spread riots, he said. PM Modi commended the unity of the Indian people in rejecting this provocation. I thank the countrymen that the nation foiled that conspiracy with unity, he added. His comments come as the government highlights the precision and speed of Operation Sindoor, which targeted those behind the attack, and underscores Indias evolving counter-terror doctrine. With inputs from agencies The latest denial came from the Indian government during the Lok Sabha debate on Operation Sindoor, firmly rejecting any US role in the India-Pakistan ceasefire and countering Donald Trumps repeated claims of brokering peace Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during the Lok Sabha debate on Operation Sindoor on Monday, firmly dismissed suggestions that New Delhis military pause against Pakistan was influenced by foreign pressure, calling such claims completely incorrect and baseless. Without naming US President Donald Trump directly, Singh said military operations had ceased only after Indian forces had achieved their overall politico-military objectives. He added that the decision followed a request from Pakistans Director-General of Military Operations. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The objective of Operation Sindoor was to destroy the terror nurseries raised by Pakistan over the years, Singh said, referencing the campaign launched after the Pahalgam terror attack. Singhs remarks come in the wake of a flurry of claims by Trump, who between May 10 and July 28 publicly took credit at least 20 times for brokering a ceasefire between the nuclear-armed neighbours. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi said that President Trump has claimed 29 times that he helped bring about the India-Pakistan ceasefire. If this is not true, the Prime Minister should clarify it in the Lok Sabha, he added. Every time Trump said he helped stop the conflict, India denied it. After Rajnath Singh, Jaishankar, during a debate on Operation Sindoor on Monday, also vehemently asserted that Washington did not play any role in ending the India-Pakistan conflict in May and said there was no phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump during those crucial weeks. I want to make two things very clear- one, at no stage, in any conversation with the United States, was there any linkage with trade and what was going on, he said. Secondly, there was no talk between the Prime Minister and President Trump from the April 22 (on the day of Pahalgam attack) when President (Donald) Trump called up to convey his sympathy, and on June 17, when he called up the prime minister in Canada to explain why he could not meet, Jaishankar added. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On June 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi clarified to President Trump in a phone call that the United States had no role in brokering the ceasefire between India and Pakistan, and that there had been no talks about a US-India trade deal during the tensions. PM Modi also turned down Trumps invitation to stop in Washington, D.C., on his return from the G7 Summit in Canada, citing a prior commitment to visit Croatia on June 18. Shedding light on the 35-minute conversation, which came at Trumps request, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, PM Modi clearly told President Trump that during the entire course of events, at no point, and at no level, was there any discussion about a US-India trade deal or about US mediation between India and Pakistan. This was the first conversation between the two leaders since India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, and came hours ahead of a meeting between Pakistans Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Trump. The Prime Minister said the talks regarding cessation of military action were held directly between India and Pakistan under the existing channels established between both militaries. It was done at Pakistans request, Misri further said. Trump was the first to announce the India-Pakistan ceasefire on social media, claiming credit for brokering the deal. He continued to repeat this claim in the following weeks, even as India consistently denied that the US had played any role in the agreement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Heres a list of statements by the US President on the India-Pakistan conflict so far: 10 May: After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE." 11 May: I am proud that the USA was able to help you arrive at this historic and heroic decision. While not even discussed, I am going to increase trade substantially with both of these great nations. Additionally, I will work with you both to see if, after a thousand years, a solution can be arrived at concerning Kashmir. 12 May: We stopped a nuclear conflict. I think it could have been a bad nuclear war. 13 May: My administration successfully brokered a historic ceasefire to stop the escalating violence between India and Pakistan. I used trade to a large extent And they both have very powerful leaders, strong leaders. 14 May: We convinced them Lets go and make trade deals. If we can make trade deals, we like that much better than nuclear weapons. 15 May: We talked to them about trade. Lets do trade instead of war. Pakistan was very happy with that and India was very happy with that Theyve been fighting for about a 1000 years. I said I could settle that up. 17 May: Those are major nuclear powers It was getting deeper and more missiles. Everyone was stronger. Where the next one s going to be, you know what? The N word. I think they were very close I said were going to talk about trade. Were going to do a lot of trade. 22 May: If you take a look at what we just did with Pakistan and India we settled that whole thing. I settled it through trade. Were doing a big deal with India. Were doing a big deal with Pakistan. 30 May: We stopped India and Pakistan from fighting. I believe that could have turned out into a nuclear disaster. We talk trade We cant trade with people who are shooting at each other and potentially using nuclear weapons. 31 May: We were able to stop potentially a nuclear war through trade as opposed through bullets. You know, normally they do it through bullets. We do it through trade. We had a very nasty potential war going on between Pakistan and India. 06 June: We solved a big problem, a nuclear problem potentially with India and Pakistan. I talked about trade and said, we are not doing trade if you guys are going to be throwing bombs at each other. They both stopped. 18 June: Two very smart people decided not to keep going with that war; that could have been a nuclear war. 21 June: I wont get a Nobel Peace Prize for stopping the War between India and Pakistan. 25 June: India and PakistanI ended that with a series of phone calls on trade. I said if youre going to go fighting each other, were not doing any trade deal. They said: I want to do the trade deal. We stopped the nuclear war." 27 June: India and Pakistan. That was going to be maybe nuclear I said to Scott and Howard: cancel all deals with India and Pakistan. Theyre not trading with us because theyre in a war. 08 July: Very, very big one was India and Pakistan. We stopped that over trade. We said that we are not going to be dealing with you at all if you are gonna fight. They were maybe at a nuclear stage. 15 July: India and Pakistan would have been a nuclear war within another week. I said, we re not going to talk to you about trade unless you get this thing settled. And they did. 19 July: Planes were being shot out of there. I think five jets were shot down, actually. These are two serious nuclear countries. India and Pakistan were going at it and we got it solved through trade. We said: you guys want to make a trade deal. Were not making a trade deal if youre going to be throwing around weapons, and maybe nuclear weapons. 26 July: It (Cambodia-Thailand conflict) very much reminds me of the conflict between Pakistan and India, which was brought to a successful halt. 28 July: We do a lot of trade with Thailand and Cambodia. Yet Im reading that theyre killing each other I say this should be an easy one for me because I settled India and Pakistan If I can use trade to do that, then its my honour." With inputs from agencies PM Modi said US Vice President JD Vance warned him of a possible Pakistani strike following Indias counter-terror operation, to which he firmly replied that if Pakistan proceeded, they would pay dearly Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the Lok Sabha during a debate on Operation Sindoor on Tuesday. ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Parliament on Tuesday that US Vice President JD Vance had cautioned him about a possible Pakistani strike following Indias counter-terror operation in response to the Pahalgam attack. PM Modi said he firmly conveyed that if Pakistan proceeded, they would pay dearly. #WATCH | PM Modi says, "On the night of 9th May, the Vice President of America tried to talk to me. He tried for an hour, but I was in a meeting with my army, so I could not pick up his call. Later, I called him back. The Vice President of America told me on the phone that pic.twitter.com/OvQblROkft ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On May 9 night, US Vice President tried to reach out to me 3-4 times, but I was busy with meetings with the armed forces said PM Modi in Lok Sabha. When I returned the call, US Vice President warned me of a big attack from Pakistan. Told US VP that if Pakistan attacks India, our attack would be much bigger as we will respond to bullets with cannons, added PM Modi. Rejecting Oppositions claims that Indias counter-terror operation was restrained or influenced by external pressure, PM Modi asserted that the armed forces were operating with full confidence. His remarks came shortly after Leader of Opposition and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi alleged that the government lacked the political will to fully support the armed forces during Operation Sindoor. Speaking in the Lok Sabha earlier, Gandhi claimed that the militarys operational scope had been restricted by political leadership and that key details were prematurely shared with Pakistan. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Gandhi pointed to Defence Minister Rajnath Singhs earlier statement in the House, saying: These are not my words, he said. These are the words of Indias defence minister. Referring to Singhs comments, Gandhi said Indias DGMO had informed Pakistan just minutes after the strikes began that only non-military targets were hit and that escalation was not intended. You attacked Pakistan and simultaneously told them we are not going to hit your army or air defence systems. That is not freedom of manoeuvre; that is surrender, Gandhi said, adding that Indian aircraft losses were the result of such constraints. Responding to Gandhi, PM Modi emphasised that India had not backed down under any global pressure. No global leader told us to stop, he said. The operation is still on. Indias forces are acting with full confidence. Pakistans nuclear threats dont work anymore. PM Modi said India had dealt significant blows to Pakistans terror infrastructure. Terrorist launchpads were destroyed. Sites like Bahawalpur and Muridke, where no one imagined we could strike, have been hit hard. Pakistans airbases and assets have suffered major damage. Many of their installations are still in ICU, he told Parliament. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He also hailed Indias defence self-reliance, saying, From drones to missiles, our entire operation was powered by Made-in-India systems. The world is witnessing the strength of a self-reliant India. On the continued threat from Pakistan, PM Modi made it clear that India would decide the duration and terms of its response. Operation Sindoor is not over. It will continue for as long as necessary. India will decide the terms and on its own timeline and on its own terms, he said. Without naming the Congress directly, PM Modi criticised Opposition leaders for questioning the mission. At a time when our forces are engaged in a battle of resolve, some are playing politics. Todays warfare includes narratives and information. Weakening the morale of our troops through misinformation helps the enemy, he added. With inputs from agencies An International Labour Organisation report defined the gig economy as labour markets that are characterized by independent contracting that happens through, via, and on digital platforms. This sector boomed at the onset of the Covid-19 crisis and has continued to grow exponentially globally with a compounded annual growth rate of 16.18 per cent between 2025 and 2033. Most digital labour platforms classify gig workers as independent contractors or freelancers. This means they shift the risks associated with labour onto the workers themselves and reduce labour costs. Most importantly they represent the company they work for but they are not on their payrolls. Workers, in return, theoretically gain flexibility and autonomy over their working hours. This fundamental model has been adopted worldwide by platforms like DoorDash, Uber, Glovo, and Swiggy among others. However, as the gig economy has grown, so have its problems. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Dark side of the gig boom In 2025 the Human Rights Watch published an article titled The Gig Trap: Algorithmic, Wage and Labor Exploitation in Platform Work in the US, which detailed the condition of the gig economy in the United States and the exploitative practices workers are forced to endure. Those deliveries within minutes from food to books to apparel display the might of the digital but hide the miseries of those that land on your doorstops to deliver. These digital platforms shadow their workers constantly more to monitor rather than secure and collect data on everything they do from office badge swipes, email exchanges, browsing histories, keystrokes, driving patterns, and rest times to social media usage and health and fitness habits. Mobile usage is a phenomenon in India and the apps that make daily lives easier for the people whether you are based in a Tier-1 or Tier-2 city or even a Tier-3 area are being used daily at madding pace. There is no doubt that the gig trend has increasingly generated jobs over the years but unfortunately even India is not free from the algorithmic management of the workforce who live under constant pressure to perform and maximise on deliveries. Gig workers are perennially caught in the nightmarish thoughts that their IDs will be suspended or their accounts will be deactivated if they dont fulfill the unknown requirements of the algorithm. Additionally, aggregators have begun to take higher commissions with companies like Uber and Ola taking 40 per cent and 30 per cent commissions, respectively, from their drivers. Long shifts, unsafe working conditions, and dangerous driving have grown to be a part of every Indian gig workers life. The gig economy is a sector with massive potential in the Indian context, with the ability to provide up to 90 million non-farm jobs and an additional 1.25 per cent to the GDP in the long-term. However, as platforms become ambitious and workers become frustrated, the widespread labour rights issues could overshadow the economic boom. Global push for platform regulation A pioneer in gig economy legislation, Spains left-wing government passed the Riders Law in August 2021. This law reclassifies Spains food-delivery riders from freelancers to employees, thus giving them access to rights such as fixed pay and sick leave. However, platform companies in the Spanish market such as Deliveroo and Uber Eats have found it easier to face the fines incurred by non-compliance rather than reclassify their delivery riders as employees and raise operational costs. Three years after the law passed, facing legal challenges, Glovo announced its decision to switch to an employment-based model. This switch is predicted to lose the company 100 million in profits over 2025. Spains story is a key example in the progress of gig economy regulation: the introduction of laws with lagging implementation. India is one of the largest contributors to the global gig economy and, according to Niti Aayog, is projected to grow to 25-35 million gig workers by 2029-30. Unfortunately, this gross expansion comes at the cost of the workers themselves. Rajasthan, under the Congress chief minister Ashok Gehlot, pioneered gig economy regulation in 2023 when it passed The Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Act, 2023. However, two years and a change in governance later, the Act is still to be implemented. In May 2025, Karnataka passed The Karnataka Platform Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Ordinance, 2025 in an attempt to regulate the gig economy after an increase in strikes in the Bengaluru region. Implementation of the measures detailed in the Act are said to begin six months after passing, and thus only time will tell. Both the International Monetary Fund and World Bank have recognised the labour rights issues of the gig economy as an important one. The IMF recognises that regulating gig economy platforms as employers is a central public policy issue. This would enable the gig workers to formally engage in collective bargaining and create a grievance redressal mechanism. It also emphasises the need for regulations that address income instability, lack of job security, and the absence of social protection for gig workers. The World Bank has noted that inclusive legal infrastructure is considered crucial for sustainable gig work and consequently recommends an incremental, data-driven approach. By using regulatory sandboxes to innovate and experiment with social insurance, collect gig worker data, and build a regulatory framework, the World Bank presents a model that can allow stakeholders to keep pace with digital labour markets. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD When interests collide The gig economy is new. New for consumers, for labourers, for business, and for the government. It is ultimately a game of satisficing where companies look for profit, workers look for salary and the government looks for policy. As the gig economy and digital labour markets dynamically evolve and change, countries around the world attempt to regulate them. The problem, however, will not be the introduction of laws but rather the implementation of them. For a country like India, where digital is the newfound soul to function, the government must ensure that the hearts that beat behind this revolution are not caught in an unending tale of despair. From labour-friendly policy formation to ensuring companies follow them to the tee or else face strict penalties, the government can make a huge difference in the way the countrys gig economy functions. Unlike Spain, where profit-driven businesses stand in defiance of increasing regulatory pressures that have been mounting since 2021, India can script a hopeful and helpful gig economy future. Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the Lok Sabha that during Operation Sindoor, Indias retaliatory strikes after the Pahalgam terror attack, only three of the UNs 193 member countries backed Pakistan, a clear sign of global support for Indias fight against terrorism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday that only three of the United Nations 193 member countries supported Pakistan, while the rest supported India during Operation Sindoor, the retaliatory strikes on Pakistan following the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam on April 22. In the Lok Sabha, PM Modi said, 193 member countries of the United Nations only three out of them gave statements in Pakistans support during Operation Sindoor. Quad, Brics, France, Russia, Germany be it any country all the countries across the globe supported India. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The remarks were made in response to Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhis allegation in the House earlier today that not a single country criticised Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror incident, accusing the government of diplomatic failure. PM Modi said that no country in the world has prevented India from taking action in its fight against terrorism, but noted that while the nation received support from the entire world, the Congress was unable to stand behind the bravery of Indias soldiers. India got support from the entire world, but it is unfortunate that the Congress did not support the valour of our soldiers. Congress leaders targeted me for political gains but their frivolous statements ended up discouraging our brave soldiers, he stated. Though PM Modi did not explicitly name the three countries that backed Pakistan, his remarks were aimed at China, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, which have frequently supported Islamabad on the international stage, including at the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). When the Indian military conducted out targeted attacks in Pakistan and the PoK between May 7 and 10, the three nations made declarations in support of Pakistan. While it was eventually revealed that China and Turkey had backed Pakistan throughout the battle, Beijing later minimised its role. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan had contacted Pakistans Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to express sympathy with Islamabad and denounce what Turkey described as Indias unprovoked aggression. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan backed Pakistans call for an international probe and reaffirmed his support for its Kashmir stance several times. While China avoided outright criticism of Operation Sindoor, its reaction was subdued. The Foreign Ministry denied providing military help to Pakistan, calling its security cooperation with Islamabad normal and claiming it did not target any third party during the conflict. In response to the two-day discussion in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam incident and Operation Sindoor, the prime minister stated that Pakistani airbases targeted by India are still in ICU and that the masterminds of the April 22 terror act are still experiencing sleepless nights. No country in the world has stopped India from any action in its defence against terrorism. Only three countries spoke in favour of Pakistan at the UN. The prime minister stated that India called Pakistans nuclear bluff and demonstrated to the world that we will not bow down to nuclear blackmail. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Our operations range from Sindoor to Sindhu (Indus Waters Treaty) Pakistan knows they have to pay a huge price for any misadventure. Terror attacks were launched earlier and the masterminds of attacks knew nothing would happen, but now they know India will come for them. During the military operation, PM Modi claimed that Indian-made drones and missiles exposed Pakistani arms and ammunition capabilities. He added, The world saw the strength of self-reliant India during Operation Sindoor. We destroyed terror sites deep inside Pakistan within 22 minutes to avenge the April 22 Pahalgam attack. Modi stated that Pakistan was aware of Indian activity and has begun issuing nuclear threats, but could do little when terror targets were attacked. It (Pahalgam attack) was a conspiracy to instigate riots in India and the countrys unity foiled that attempt. When I speak of this Parliament session being a Vijayotsav (celebration of victory), it is of destroying the headquarters of terror, he said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD I stand here to make a case for India, and to show a mirror to those who do not understand this. I had said that we will teach the terrorists and their masters a befitting lesson which will be beyond their imagination. We have complete trust in the capabilities of our armed forces and they were given a free hand to respond. The armed forces taught them such a lesson that the masters of terrorism are still losing their sleep over it, he added. During the Operation Sindoor debate, PM Modi highlighted Indias lost territories, Haji Pir Pass, Chhad Bet, and Neelum Valley, as vital to the countrys security and national pride. Addressing Parliament on Tuesday during the debate on Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi renewed focus on some of the significant territorial challenges India continues to face along its border with Pakistan. He singled out key areas Haji Pir Pass, Chhad Bet, and the Neelum Valley reminding the nation that these lands represent more than just geography; they are central to Indias security and pride. I had earlier spoken about the 38,000 square kilometres of our territory lost through past conflicts and agreements, PM Modi said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Among those, strategic areas like Haji Pir Pass, Chhad Bet, and the Neelum Valley stand out. These are not just pieces of land but vital to our national security and pride. The sacrifices of our armed forces in those regions continue to inspire us. We remain firm in our resolve to protect our sovereignty and work towards reclaiming what is rightfully ours. The story behind the lost territories Haji Pir Pass, perched at around 2,637 meters high in the Pir Panjal mountain range, was historically a vital trade and military route connecting Poonch in Indian Jammu & Kashmir to Rawalakot, now part of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Before partition in 1947, it served as a critical corridor for transport and logistics in the region. Pakistan occupied the area when it invaded Jammu and Kashmir in 1947, leading to the 194748 India-Pakistan war. India regained the pass in the 1965 war through Operation Bakshi, disrupting militant infiltration routes. However, as part of the Tashkent Agreement in 1966, the Indian government of the time returned the pass to Pakistan. Many view this as a strategic misstep, as the pass remains a key route exploited frequently for militant crossings into Indian territory. Experts believe retaining control would have allowed India a shorter and more secure link between Poonch and Uri, significantly improving military logistics and operational flexibility in this sensitive region. Impact Shorts View All India & China likely to resume direct flights within weeks: Report Cargo plane's engine catches fire in Chennai Chhad Bet, refers to one of the bets patches of higher ground that rise above the salt marshes in the Rann of Kutch. Pakistan eyed capturing this patch, and surreptitiously occupied it in the mid-1950s. On one occasion, the Indian patrol team was fired upon by the intruding Pakistani troops. But when Indian forces went for retaliatory action, they found that Pakistan had retreated before the fight. Chhad Bet came up in contention again in the 1960s, leading to the formation of an international tribunal for resolution. Indias agreement to agree to the tribunal-mediated resolution is considered a tactical mistake. The tribunal awarded Chhad Bet to Pakistan. The Pakistani control over Chhad Bet affects local surveillance and security in this arid border region. PM Modi made reference to this in his intervention on Operation Sindoor debate in Parliament. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Neelum Valley runs parallel to Kashmir Valley but falls predominantly in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Known for its natural beauty, this area has been a hotspot for military activity due to its proximity to the LoC. Seized during the early days of the invasion of Jammu and Kashmir, it poses challenges for security and border management. Prime Minister Modi said that out of the 193 countries listed in the United Nations, only three had supported Pakistan during Operation Sindoor Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, at the Monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi, Tuesday, July 29, 2025. PTI Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday during a special discussion on Indias bold and successful Operation Sindoor launched in response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam said that no country stopped India from defending itself. Out of 193 countries listed in the United Nations, only three supported Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. Whether it is Russia, France, or the United States. Name any country and they all supported Indias right to defend itself, Prime Minister Modi said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Operation Sindoor: A swift and precise military campaign Operation Sindoor was a swift and precision-driven military campaign launched by India on the night of May 7, 2025, in retaliation for the devastating Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians on April 22. The operation was executed as a joint effort involving the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Indian Navy, and intelligence agencies. It lasted approximately 23 minutes, during which nine terrorist infrastructure targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir were struck. These included facilities linked to terror outfits such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Over 100 terrorists were neutralised. Lack of support from Congress party We got world support, but its unfortunate that we didnt get support from the Congress party. After the April 22 Pahalgam attack, within just three or four days, the Congress targeted me by asking, Where is the 56-inch chest? Where is Modi? They thought they had won. They were doing politics over the deaths of innocent people in Pahalgam, the prime minister said. The Congress party doesnt trust the Indian military. Thats why they are raising questions about Operation Sindoor. You can take headlines in the media, but you wont be able to make a place in the hearts of the people. When the surgical strike happened, our aim was to enter and destroy their launching pads. During Balakot, we aimed to destroy terrorist training centres. During Operation Sindoor, our aim was to destroy the terror epicentre, he said. The country is seeing that India is fast becoming self-reliant. But Congress is dependent on Pakistan for its issues. I was listening to the discussion that happened so far. In todays information warfare, narratives play an important role. These are all attempts to demoralise the Indian military, Prime Minister Modi said. Congress has become the spokesperson for Pakistans propaganda. Our forces conducted a surgical strike, and the Congress party asked for proof. But when they saw the mood of the country, they changed their tone and said, Whats big in this strike? We also did it. In Balakot, we carried out an air strike. But they (Congress) did not react to it. Instead, they asked for a photo. Pakistan and the Congress both kept asking for a photo, the prime minister said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Now, after Operation Sindoor was executed, they are asking why it was stopped. Not only me, but the whole country is also laughing at you, Prime Minister Modi said, seeking to show Congress their political reality. The prime minister also highlighted Congress weak response to terrorism. Just after the 26/11 attack, the UPA government started talks with Pakistan, he said. Prime Minister Modi accused the Congress of wanting to withdraw Indian troops from the Siachen Glacier and of granting Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to Pakistan despite its continued support for terrorism. Pakistan kept sending terrorists to India. They continued playing a bloody game, he said. Return of captured soldiers and political reactions When the IAF pilot (Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, now Group Captain) was caught, Pakistan was celebrating. But even here, there were some people who said, Now Modi is in trouble. But we brought Abhinandan back, and the Congress was forced to go silent, Prime Minister Modi said. After Pahalgam, one of our BSF troopers was caught by Pakistan. Then again, they thought it was a big issue. Now Modi will be trapped. Their social media made a big issue out of it. The BSF soldier returned too. In Pakistan, terrorists are crying and here too, some people are crying, the prime minister said, taunting the Congress. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD National security lapses under Congress rule Modi slammed the Congress party for its handling of national security issues, claiming, Congress has no vision on national security. It has compromised on it repeatedly. He questioned their recent criticism of the governments operations in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), stating, They are asking why PoK wasnt taken back. Under whose government was it lost in the first place? The answer is clear. When I speak of Nehru, the Congress system gets rattled. Congress ignoring Kargil Vijay Diwas Prime Minister Modi lamented that the Congress party did not observe Kargil Vijay Diwas. The country observed Kargil Vijay Diwas. The country knows Congress has, till now, not accepted Kargil Vijay Diwas. In Doklam, from whom Congress leaders took briefings is an open secret. The whole world knows about it. Their comments are similar, down to the full stops and commas, to those of Pakistan. Congress gave a clean chit to Pakistan, he said. Delayed military modernisation and dependency on imports Prime Minister Modi also criticised previous governments for their negligence in equipping Indias armed forces. He said that the forces had to wait for decades to receive sophisticated weapons. Even for small weapons, they were dependent on other countries. Bulletproof jackets and night vision cameras were also not available. There was a scam in everything, he remarked. He added that India used to hesitate when it came to military action because of a lack of weapons and ammunition. Doors were closed to research and manufacturing, the prime minister said, highlighting the lack of support for indigenous defence innovation. Post-Independence blunders and territorial losses Modi lamented the long-term effects of post-independence decisions, saying, After independence, for the decisions that were made, the country is still paying the price for them. He referred to the loss of Aksai Chin, saying, It was called barren land and we lost 38,000 square kilometres. He cited the 1965 Hajipir Pass operation, where Indian forces captured the strategic location but the then government returned it to Pakistan. At the very least, Kartarpur Sahib could have been taken, but Congress didnt do that either, he said. There was an opportunity to take back PoK, but they did not. They could have at least taken Kartarpur. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The prime minister strongly criticised the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a big betrayal. He questioned, Who signed the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan? and answered, It was Nehru who started it. Prime Minister Modi also recalled that the Congress government had gifted Katchatheevu Island to Sri Lanka, leading to ongoing difficulties for Indian fishermen. They could have even handed over Siachen to Pakistan. Congresss love for Pakistan does not stop, he added. He further stated, We ended the one-way traffic from Pakistan, closed the Attari border and revoked MFN status. Prime Minister Modi said that Nehru and the Congress chose to go to the World Bank on the issue and agreed to give 80 per cent of the water to Pakistan. What sort of diplomacy was that? he asked. He emphasised the developmental loss caused by the treaty, saying, If there had been no such treaty, there would have been more development. Electricity could have been produced. Not just this, Nehru also offered a huge amount of money to Pakistan to build canals. Pakistan even made him give in writing that India cannot clean its canals without consulting them. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Strong message on national security Concluding his speech, Prime Minister Modi said, Congress should stop giving a clean chit to Pakistan. We will not allow our future generations to suffer. We are committed to eliminating terrorists at their origin. Operation Sindoor is not over. This operation was done by 4 Para (SF) officers. One officer and his buddy identified them, after which they were shot immediately," a report quoted defence sources as saying Indian security officers inspect the site in Pahalgam where militants indiscriminately opened fired at tourists at Pahalgam. AP File Operation Mahadev, which tracked down and eliminated three attackers involved in the Pahalgam incident, was carried out by officers from the Indian Armys 4 Para (Special Forces), according to a News 18 report, citing defence sources. This operation was done by 4 Para (SF) officers. One officer and his buddy identified them, after which they were shot immediately," News 18 quoted sources as saying. 4 Para played a central role in Operation Mahadev, targeting terrorists hiding in the Harwan forest near Dachigam National Park. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The unit swiftly cordoned off the area and engaged in a fierce gunbattle, killing three terrorists, including the mastermind of the Pahalgam massacre. The precision strike in dense terrain underlined 4 Paras counter-terror excellence, reported News 18. What is 4 Para (SF)? 4 Para (Special Forces), or 4 Para (SF), is one of the Indian Armys most elite Special Forces units. Part of the Parachute Regiment, it specialises in counter-terrorism, surgical strikes, and high-risk operations in mountain and jungle terrain. The unit has been at the forefront of several high-stakes missions in Kashmir, including the 2016 surgical strikes across the Line of Control. Nicknamed the Red Devils****, the regiment is known for its fierce combat reputation and distinctive maroon berets, a symbol of airborne forces. The nickname is shared with elite paratrooper units worldwide, particularly Britains airborne forces, and has been adopted by 4 Para (SF) as a mark of their elite status and operational ethos. The unit is considered one of the most lethal in South Asia. Its operatives are handpicked and undergo one of the worlds toughest selection and probation processes. They are trained for rapid deployment, deep infiltration, and precision strikes. Within the regiment, 4 Para (SF) is also referred to by the unofficial nickname Mighty Daggers a tribute to their sharp-strike capabilities and aggressive operational style. The term symbolizes their ability to strike fast and deep like a dagger, reflecting both their tactical mindset and battlefield effectiveness. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Other key operations by 4 Para (SF) Surgical Strikes (2016) In response to the Uri terror attack, 4 Para commandos led the surgical strikes targeting terrorist launch pads across the Line of Control in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Infiltrating at night, they neutralised multiple targets and returned without casualties, showcasing Indias new assertive posture on cross-border terrorism. Kupwara Snow Encounter (April 2020) In a high-altitude mission, 4 Para troops were heli-dropped into snow-covered forests in Kupwara to intercept infiltrators. Despite one soldier falling into a crevasse during landing, the team eliminated five heavily armed terrorists in a close-quarters battle. The operation underscored their adaptability and resilience under extreme conditions. Origins of 4 Para (SF) The 4th Battalion of the Parachute Regiment was originally raised in 1941 under the British Indian Army during World War II. Initially trained as an airborne infantry unit, it saw action in the Burma campaign. After serving as para-infantry during the 1965 and 1971 wars, the unit evolved in response to growing asymmetrical threats. By the 1980s, select Para battalions began specializing in unconventional warfare, and in 2001following the Parliament attack4 Para was officially converted into a full-fledged Special Forces unit. Training and deployment 4 Para SF operatives undergo some of the worlds toughest military training including HALO (High Altitude Low Opening) jumps, jungle warfare, mountain operations, and urban close-quarters battle (CQB)at elite centres in Himachal Pradesh, Belgaum, and Nahan. The unit operates extensively in Jammu & Kashmir, the Northeast, and along the Line of Control, often conducting covert and high-risk missions deep behind enemy lines. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies Operation Sindoor is going on. Pakistan ne dussahas ki kalpana ki toh, usse karara jawab diya jayega (If Pakistan dares to act recklessly, it will be given a fitting response), he said while addressing the Lok Sabha during the debate on Opertion Sindoor Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that Operation Sindoor is still underway and issued a strong warning to Pakistan against any future aggression. #WATCH | PM Narendra Modi says, "Operation Sindoor is going on. Pakistan ne 'dussahas ki kalpana ki toh, usse karara javab diya jayega." pic.twitter.com/cZBYvIxgPm ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Addressing the Lok Sabha during the debate on Opertion Sindoor - Indias counter-terror response to the Pahalgam attack, PM Modi said, Operation Sindoor is going on. Pakistan ne dussahas ki kalpana ki toh, usse karara jawab diya jayega (If Pakistan dares to act recklessly, it will be given a fitting response), he said. On the continued threat from Pakistan, PM Modi made it clear that India would decide the duration and terms of its response. Operation Sindoor is not over. It will continue for as long as necessary. India will decide the terms and on its own timeline and on its own terms, he repeated. PM Modi also told the House that on May 9 night, US Vice President (JD Vance) tried to reach out to me 3-4 times, but I was busy with meetings with the armed forces. When I returned the call, the US Vice President warned me of a big attack from Pakistan. I told him that if Pakistan attacks India, our attack would be much bigger as we will respond to bullets with cannons, he said. PM Modi asserted that no leader of any country asked India to stop the operation. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The prime minister said Pakistani airbases hit by India are still in ICU and the masterminds of the April 22 terror attack continue to have sleepless nights. No country in the world has stopped India from any action in its defence against terrorism. Only three countries spoke in favour of Pakistan at the UN, he added. He also attacked the Congress for not supporting the valour of Indian soldiers. India got support from the entire world, but it is unfortunate that the Congress did not support the valour of our soldiers. Congress leaders targeted me for political gains, but their frivolous statements ended up discouraging our brave soldiers, he said. The prime minister noted that India called out Pakistans nuclear bluff and showed the world that we will not bow down to nuclear blackmail. Our operations range from Sindoor to Sindhu (Indus Waters Treaty) Pakistan knows they have to pay a huge price for any misadventure. Terror attacks were launched earlier and the masterminds of attacks knew nothing would happen, but now they know India will come for them. PM Modi said drones and missiles made in India exposed the capabilities of Pakistani arms and ammunition during the military operation. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The world saw the strength of self-reliant India during Operation Sindoor. We destroyed terror sites deep inside Pakistan within 22 minutes to avenge the April 22 Pahalgam attack, he said. PM Modi noted that Pakistan had some inkling of Indian action and had started issuing nuclear threats, but could do nothing when terror targets were hit. The Congress and its allies have unfortunately become spokespersons of Pakistani propaganda. India is becoming self-reliant, but Congress is now dependent on Pakistan for issues. The entire country is amazed to see Congress give a clean chit to Pakistan and sing the same tune as theirs. PM Modi said, It (Pahalgam attack) was a conspiracy to instigate riots in India and the countrys unity foiled that attempt. When I speak of this Parliament session being a Vijayotsav (celebration of victory), it is of destroying the headquarters of terror. I stand here to make a case for India, and to show a mirror to those who do not understand this. I had said that we will teach the terrorists and their masters a befitting lesson which will be beyond their imagination. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD We have complete trust in the capabilities of our armed forces and they were given a free hand to respond. The armed forces taught them such a lesson that the masters of terrorism are still losing their sleep over it, he added. With inputs from agencies Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a debate on Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the Pahalgam terrorist attack was a plot to incite riots in India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that the Pahalgam terrorist attack was a plot to incite riots in India. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a debate on Operation Sindoor, Modi said that the conspiracy was foiled as Indians remained united after the attack. The brutal attack in Pahalgam on April 22, and the way terrorists killed innocent people after asking their religion, was the height of cruelty. It was a planned attempt to incite riots in India. I want to thank the people of India for standing united against that conspiracy, said Modi. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD VIDEO | Parliament Monsoon Session: PM Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) says, "The brutal attack in Pahalgam on April 22, and the way terrorists killed innocent people after asking their religion, was the height of cruelty. It was a planned attempt to incite riots in India. I want pic.twitter.com/r1nRdXTPw4 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 29, 2025 On April 22, terrorists killed 26 people in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam. Pakistan-based The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility for the attack. India launched Operation Sindoor to punish the terrorist groups and their supporters on the night of May 6-7. India attacked terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) on the intervening night of May 6-7. The next day, after Pakistan targeted Indias civilian and military sites, India struck Pakistani military sites, including airbases and air defence sites. After four days of conflict, Pakistan reached out to India with a request of a ceasefire on May 10 that India granted. In his speech, Modi said that US Vice President JD Vance called him on the night of May 9 to and said Pakistan was planning a big attack. Modi said that he told Vance that if Pakistan would mount a big attack, India would respond with a bigger attack. Goli ka jawaab gola hoga, Modi said he told Vance. In a landmark Lok Sabha address, PM Modi hailed Operation Sindoor as a decisive military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, destroying terror bases in Pakistan within 22 minutes. He called it a shift in Indias national security doctrine, backed by global support and indigenous defence power, declaring an end to tolerance for cross-border terrorism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, at the Monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi. PTI Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed to the Lok Sabha on Tuesday at a special debate focused on Indias successful, and resolute Operation Sindoor in response to the terrorist incident in Pahalgam. Addressing the House, PM Modi recalled his interaction with the media at the start of the session, adding that he had urged to all Honourable Members of Parliament to attend the session as a celebration of Indias successes and an homage to Indias greatness. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He emphasised that the term Vijay Utsav refers to the entire destruction of terrorist headquarters, and that Vijayotsav marks the fulfilment of the solemn commitment made with sindoor, an homage to national dedication and sacrifice. Vijay Utsav is a testament to the valour and strength of Indias armed forces, he emphasised, further stating that Vijayotsav celebrates the unity, willpower, and collective triumph of 140 crore Indians. PM Modi added that he has stood in the House with a spirit of triumph to express Indias perspective, and that he has stood to hold up a mirror for those who do not see Indias point of view. He stated that he had come to unite his voice with the sentiments of 140 crore people. He emphasised that the House has heard the resonance of these collective feelings, and he has risen to join the chorus. He expressed appreciation to the people of India for their steadfast support and blessings throughout Operation Sindoor, stating that he is still beholden to the nation. He recognised the residents collective commitment and expressed gratitude for their contribution to the operations success. In his speech, PM Modi condemned the heinous incident that occurred in Pahalgam on 22 April 2025, where terrorists brutally shot innocent people after asking their religion, calling it the height of cruelty. He further added that this was a deliberately planned scheme to instigate violence and communal turmoil in India. He thanked the people of India for their solidarity and resilience. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD PM Modi recalled that following April 22, he gave a public statement in English to clarify Indias stance clear to the world. He announced Indias resolute determination to combat terrorism, emphasising that even the masterminds will suffer punishment beyond imagination. PM Modi said he was on a foreign tour on April 22 but returned immediately to hold a high-level meeting. He stated that explicit orders were given at the meeting to execute a strong response to terrorism, emphasising that this is a national priority. Affirming complete confidence in the capabilities, strength, and courage of Indias armed forces, PM Modi stated that the military was given full operational freedom to decide the timing, location, and mode of response. He emphasised that these directives were clearly conveyed during the high-level meeting, and some aspects may have been reported in the media. He remarked with pride that the punishment delivered to the terrorists was so impactful that even their masterminds continue to lose sleep over it. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD PM Modi stated that he wished to present Indias response and the success of its armed forces before the nation through the House. He remarked that following the Pahalgam attack, the Pakistani military had anticipated a major Indian response, prompting them to issue nuclear threats. Outlining the first dimension, he said that as scheduled, India executed its operation on the intervening night of 6th & 7th May 2025, rendering Pakistan unable to react, PM Modi emphasised that the Indian armed forces avenged the April 22 attack by achieving their targeted objectives in just 22 minutes. PM Modi, presenting further outlining the second dimension of Indias strategic response through the House, remarked that although India has fought multiple wars with Pakistan in the past, this was the first time a strategy was executed that reached locations previously untouched. He highlighted that terrorist hideouts across Pakistan were decisively targeted, including areas no one imagined India could reach. He specifically mentioned Bahawalpur and Muridke, stating that these bases were razed to the ground, affirming that Indias armed forces had successfully destroyed terrorist bases. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD PM Modi emphasised the third dimension that Pakistans nuclear threats were proven hollow, and India has demonstrated that nuclear blackmailing will no longer be tolerated and nor will India ever bow before it. Outlining the fourth dimension of Indias strategic response under Operation Sindoor, PM Modi stated that India demonstrated its advanced technological capabilities by delivering precise strikes deep within Pakistani territory, resulting in significant damage to Pakistans air base assets, many of which, he added, remain in critical condition. He remarked that we are now in an era of technology-driven warfare, and Operation Sindoor proved Indias mastery in this domain. Emphasising that, without the preparedness undertaken over the past ten years, India could have suffered immense losses in this technological era, PM Modi presented the fifth dimension, stating that, for the first time, the world has witnessed the strength of an Atmanirbhar Bharat during Operation Sindoor. He highlighted the effectiveness of Made-in-India drones and missiles, which exposed vulnerabilities in Pakistans weapons systems. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Highlighting a significant achievement in Indias defence structure, referring to his announcement of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), PM Modi remarked that Operation Sindoor witnessed a joint action by the Navy, Army, and Air Force, and the synergy between these forces rattled Pakistan comprehensively. PM Modi stated that while terrorist incidents had occurred in India earlier as well, the masterminds were previously undisturbed and continued planning future attacks with impunity. He emphasised that the situation has now changed. He added that, today, after every strike, the masterminds lose sleep, knowing that India will strike back and eliminate threats with precision. He asserted that India has established a new normal. Emphasising that the global community has now witnessed the vast scale and reach of Indias strategic operations, stating that strikes were conducted across Pakistan from Sindoor to Sindhu, PM Modi remarked that Operation Sindoor has established a new doctrine: any terrorist attack on India will result in a heavy cost for its masterminds and for Pakistan itself. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD PM Modi outlined three clear principles arising from Operation Sindoor. First, India will respond to terrorist attacks on its own terms, in its own way, and at its chosen time. Second, nuclear blackmail of any kind will no longer be tolerated. Thirdly, India will not distinguish between terrorist sponsors and the masterminds behind such attacks. PM Modi informed the House with clarity on global support for Indias actions during Operation Sindoor. He stated that no country in the world objected to India taking necessary action in defence of its national security. He also emphasised that out of the 193 member nations of the United Nations, only three issued statements in support of Pakistan during the operation. He remarked that India received widespread backing from countries across the globe, including strategic groupings like QUAD and BRICS, and nations such as France, Russia, and Germany. PM Modi asserted that the international community stood in strong support of India. Expressing deep disappointment that while India received support from the global community, the bravery of the Indias soldiers did not find backing from the Opposition, PM Modi remarked that just days after the April 22 terrorist attack, certain opposition leaders began mocking the government and alleged failure. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD PM Modi said this mockery, and their indulgence in political opportunism even in the wake of the Pahalgam killings, reflected a blatant disregard for national grief. He stated that such statements were not only petty but demoralizing for Indias security forces. He stated that some opposition leaders neither believe in Indias strength nor in the capabilities of its armed forces, and continue to cast doubt on Operation Sindoor. He asserted that chasing headlines might serve political interests, but it will not earn the trust or respect of the people. PM Modi stated that on 10 May 2025, India announced the cessation of operations under Operation Sindoor. He acknowledged that this announcement led to varied speculations, which he described as propaganda originating from across the border. He criticised those who chose to amplify Pakistans disinformation instead of relying on the facts presented by Indias armed forces, and reaffirmed that Indias stance has always remained clear and resolute. Recalling Indias targeted military operations over the years, emphasising the strategic clarity and execution involved, PM Modi stated that during the surgical strikes, India set a clear objective to destroy terrorist launch pads within enemy territory, which was accomplished overnight before sunrise. He remarked that in the Balakot air strikes, India targeted terrorist training centres and successfully carried out the mission. He emphasised that under Operation Sindoor, India again operated with a clearly defined objective, striking the epicentre of terror and the infrastructure behind the Pahalgam attackers, including their planning bases, training hubs, funding sources, tracking and technical support, and arms supply chains. India precisely attacked the nerve centre of these terrorists and dismantled the core of their operations, he said. Once again the Indian forces achieved 100% of their targets, showcasing the nations strength, stressed PM Modi, criticising those who deliberately choose to forget these milestones, affirming that the nation remembers well. The operation took place on the night of May 6 and morning of May 7, and by sunrise on May 7, the Indian Army held a press conference stating the mission was accomplished. PM Modi reiterated that Indias objectives were clear from the first day, to dismantle terrorist networks, their masterminds, and their logistical hubs, and that the mission was completed as planned. Quoting the Union Minister of Defence, Rajnath Singh, PM Modi echoed with conviction that Indias armed forces conveyed its success to Pakistans military within minutes, making intentions and outcomes unmistakable. He asserted that Pakistans decision to openly stand with terrorists reflected a lack of prudence. Had they acted sensibly, they would not have made such a brazen error. PM Modi emphasised that although India was fully prepared and waiting for the right moment, its goal was to eliminate terrorism, not engage in conflict with a nation. However, when Pakistan decided to enter the battlefield in support of terrorists, India responded with a powerful counterstrike. He highlighted that on the midnight of May 9 and the morning of May 10, Indian missiles struck across Pakistan with such intensity that it surpassed their imagination. PM Modi further stated on the floor of the house that Indias decisive action under Operation Sindoor forced Pakistan to its knees. He recalled how Pakistani citizens expressed shock, whose reactions were widely visible on television. PM Modi remarked that Pakistan was so overwhelmed by the response that its Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) directly called India, pleading to stop the offensive, admitting they could not endure further assault. He also reiterated that India had clearly stated, during the press conference on the morning of May 7, that its objectives were achieved and that any further provocation would prove costly. Indias policy was deliberate, well-considered, and crafted in coordination with its armed forcesfocused exclusively on dismantling terrorism, its sponsors, and their bases, Indias action was non-escalatory by design, declared PM Modi. PM Modi stated that no global leader objected to Indias operations. He also revealed that on the night of May 9, the Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, attempted to reach him multiple times while he was in a high-level meeting with Indian defence officials. After returning the call, he was informed that Pakistan might launch a major offensive. He responded unequivocally: If that is Pakistans intent, it will cost them dearly. He added firmly that India would retaliate with greater force, stating, We will respond to bullets with canons. PM Modi confirmed that India struck back powerfully on the night of May 9 and morning of May 10, dismantling Pakistans military infrastructure with overwhelming force. He noted that Pakistan now fully understands, every Indian response will be stronger than the last. Should Pakistan dare again, it will face a fitting and formidable retaliation. Operation Sindoor remains active and resolute, declared PM Modi. Todays India is full of self-confidence and is progressing rapidly with the spirit of self-reliance, affirmed PM Modi, remarking that the nation is witnessing Indias march toward Atmanirbharta, but it is also seeing the unfortunate trend of the opposition becoming increasingly dependent on Pakistan for its political narratives. PM Modi stated that during the ongoing 16-hour discussion, opposition was seen importing issues from Pakistan, a matter of deep regret. Underscoring the evolving nature of warfare, where information and narrative-building play a critical role, PM Modi cautioned that AI-powered disinformation campaigns are being used to weaken the morale of armed forces and sow public mistrust. He expressed concern that the opposition and its allies have effectively become spokespersons of Pakistans propaganda, undermining Indias national interest. Highlighting repeated efforts to question and diminish Indias military achievements, PM Modi stated that after Indias successful surgical strikes, opposition leaders demanded proof from the armed forces. He noted that as public sentiment shifted in favour of the military, Opposition leaders changed their stance, claiming they had also conducted such strikes citing differing numbers, from three to fifteen surgical strikes. PM Modi remarked that after the Balakot air strikes, the Opposition did not directly oppose the operation but instead demanded photographic proof. He noted that their repeated questions about where the strike landed, what was destroyed, and how many were killed closely mirrored the rhetoric coming from Pakistan. PM Modi remarked that when Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan was captured by Pakistan, celebrations in that country were expected. However, some individuals within India began whispering doubts, suggesting that PM Modi was in trouble and questioning whether Abhinandan would be brought back. PM Modi highlighted that Abhinandans return to India was secured with bold resolve, and upon his repatriation, such critics fell silent. PM Modi further stated that after the Pahalgam attack, when a BSF soldier was taken captive by Pakistan, certain groups saw it as a major opportunity to corner the government. He noted that their ecosystem circulated various narratives on social media, raising speculative questions about the soldiers fate, his familys condition, and the chances of his return. He emphasised that despite these attempts, India responded with clarity and dignity, countering misinformation and reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding every soldier. Stating that the BSF soldier captured after the Pahalgam incident returned with honour and dignity, PM Modi remarked that terrorists were grieving, their handlers were grieving, and that some individuals within India seemed to share in that grief. He observed that political games were attempted during the surgical strikes but failed to gain traction. Similar efforts were made during the air strike, but those too collapsed. Referring to Operation Sindoor, he noted that critics once again changed their stance initially refusing to acknowledge the operation and later questioning why it was stopped. He added that those who oppose always look for a reason to object. Highlighting that the Opposition has long displayed a negative attitude towards the armed forces, PM Modi pointed out that even during the recent commemoration of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Opposition neither celebrated the victory nor acknowledged its significance. He remarked that history is witness to the fact that during the Doklam standoff, while the Indian forces displayed courage, Opposition leaders were secretly seeking briefings from questionable sources. PM Modi further expressed astonishment that the Opposition appeared to give a clean chit to Pakistan. He questioned the demand raised by the Opposition for proof that the Pahalgam terrorists were Pakistani nationals, noting that this is the same demand being made by Pakistan itself. He remarked that such habits and audacity persist within Opposition, echoing external narratives. PM Modi remarked that today, with no shortage of evidence and facts plainly visible before the public, certain individuals still continue to raise doubts. He questioned how these individuals would have reacted if such clear proof had not been available, implying that their responses would have been even more misleading or irresponsible. Underlining that while discussions often focus on one part of Operation Sindoor, PM Modi there are moments of national pride and demonstrations of strength that also deserve attention. He praised Indias air defence systems, noting that they are widely acknowledged across the world and that they had dismantled Pakistans missiles and drones like straw. He cited data that on 9 May, Pakistan attempted a major offensive involving approximately one thousand missiles and armed drones targeting India. PM Modi emphasised that had these missiles landed, they would have caused widespread destruction. Instead, Indias air defence neutralized all of them mid-air. He stated that this achievement fills every citizen with pride. Criticising that Pakistan spread false reports about an attack on the Adampur airbase and attempted to widely promote that lie, PM Modi stated that he personally visited Adampur the very next day and exposed the falsehoods on ground, making it clear that such misinformation would no longer succeed. PM Modi criticised that the current Opposition has governed India for a significant period and is fully aware of how administrative systems function. He expressed concern that despite this experience, they consistently refused to accept official clarifications. PM Modi noted that whether it is a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, repeated responses from the External Affairs Minister, or clarifications from the Home and Defence Ministers, the Opposition refuses to trust them. He questioned how a party that has ruled for decades could show such lack of faith in the nations institutions, asserting that opposition now seems to operate according to Pakistans remote control, with its stance shifting accordingly. PM Modi criticised the senior leaders of opposition who prepare written statements and make the young MPs speak on their behalf. He condemned such leadership for lacking the courage to speak themselves, and for calling Operation Sindoor, a response to a brutal terror attack that claimed 26 lives, as a spectacle. He described this statement as akin to pouring acid on the memory of a horrific event and called it a shameful act. PM Modi shared that the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack were neutralised by Indian security forces in Operation Mahadev the previous day. He expressed astonishment that laughter and mockery accompanied questions about the timing of the operation, asking sarcastically whether it was scheduled for a holy Monday in the month of Sawan. He criticised this attitude as a reflection of extreme despair and frustration and commented that it shows the deteriorating condition of the oppositions approach. Quoting ancient scriptures, PM Modi said that when a nation is protected by arms, the pursuit of knowledge and philosophical discourse can flourish. A strong military at the borders ensures a vibrant and secure democracy, said PM Modi. Operation Sindoor stands as direct evidence of Indias military empowerment over the past decade, exclaimed the Prime Minister, noting that such strength did not emerge spontaneously, but was the result of focused effort, contrasting it with Oppositions tenure, during which self-reliance in defence was not even considered. He remarked that even today, the term self-reliance, rooted in Gandhian philosophy, is mocked. Asserting that during Opposition rule, every defence deal was an opportunity for personal gain, PM Modi said that India remained dependent on foreign suppliers for even basic equipment. He listed deficiencies such as the absence of bulletproof jackets and night vision cameras, and pointed out that scandals were linked to every defence procurement, from jeeps to Bofors to helicopters. PM Modi highlighted that Indias forces had to wait decades for modern weapons and reminded the House that historically, India was a leader in defence manufacturing. He cited that even during sword warfare, Indian weapons were considered superior. He remarked that post-Independence, Indias robust defence manufacturing ecosystem was deliberately weakened and systematically dismantled. PM Modi remarked that avenues for research and manufacturing were blocked for years, and had those policies continued, India would not have been able to even imagine Operation Sindoor in the 21st century. He stated that under such circumstances, India would have struggled to find weapons, equipment, and ammunition in time, and feared interruptions during military action. He highlighted that over the past decade, weapons made under the Make in India initiative played a decisive role in the success of Operation Sindoor. PM Modi recalled that a decade ago, Indians resolved to build a strong, self-reliant, and modern nation, prompting a series of security reforms that were implemented for the first time since independence. He noted that the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff was a major reform, one that had long been debated and practiced globally, yet never executed in India. He applauded the wholehearted support and acceptance of this system by all three services. Emphasising that the greatest strength now lies in jointness and integration, PM Modi stated that integration across the Navy, Air Force, and Army has multiplied Indias defence capability, and Operation Sindoor reflected the success of this transformation. PM Modi stated that reforms were introduced in government-owned defence production companies despite initial resistance, including unrest and strikes. He praised the workers for placing national interest first, embracing reforms, and becoming highly productive. He further highlighted that India opened its defence sector to private companies, and today, the private sector is making notable progress. PM Modi pointed out that hundreds of startups in defence, many led by young professionals aged 2730 from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, including young women, are contributing significantly to innovation. PM Modi stated that activities in the drone sector are primarily led by individuals around the age of 30 to 35, and their contributions proved instrumental in Operation Sindoor. He extended his appreciation to all such contributors and assured them that the country will continue to move forward. Underscoring that Make in India in the defence sector was never merely a slogan, PM Modi stated that budgetary increases, policy changes, and new initiatives were undertaken with a clear vision, enabling rapid progress in indigenous defence manufacturing. He highlighted that in the past decade, Indias defence budget has nearly tripled. Defence production has increased by approximately 250 percent, and defence exports have surged over 30 times in the last 11 years, now reaching nearly 100 countries. PM Modi remarked that certain milestones have had a lasting impact on history, stating that Operation Sindoor has firmly positioned India within the global defence market. He noted that the rising demand for Indian weaponry would strengthen domestic industries, empower MSMEs, and create employment for youth. He affirmed that young Indians are now showcasing Indias strength through their innovations. PM Modi clarified that self-reliance in defence is essential not just for national interest but also for global peace in todays competitive era. India is the land of Buddha, not Yuddha (war), and although the nation desires prosperity and peace, the path to both requires strength and resolve, said PM Modi. He described India as the land of great warriors, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Rajendra Chola, Maharana Pratap, Lachit Borphukan, and Maharaja Suheldev, emphasising that strategic strength remains vital for development and peace. PM Modi asserted that the opposition has never had a clear vision for national security and has consistently compromised on it. He stated that those now questioning why Pakistan-occupied Kashmir hasnt been reclaimed must first answer who allowed Pakistan to take control of it in the first place. Strongly criticising post-independence decisions that continue to burden the nation, PM Modi highlighted that critical misjudgments led to the loss of 38,000 square kilometers of Indian territory in Aksai Chin, which was wrongly labelled as barren land. He remarked that between 1962 and 1963, the then ruling party leaders had proposed surrendering key regions in Jammu & Kashmir, including Poonch, Uri, Neelam Valley, and Kishanganga. PM Modi pointed out that the surrender was proposed under the guise of Line of Peace. He further criticized the Opposition for accepting mediation over the Rann of Kutch in 1966, resulting in the handing over of approximately 800 square kilometers of land, including the disputed Chhad Bet region, to Pakistan. He recalled that although Indian forces had reclaimed Hajipir Pass in the 1965 war, the then ruling dispensation returned it, undermining the nations strategic victory. PM Modi emphasised that during the 1971 war, India had captured thousands of square kilometers of Pakistani territory and held 93,000 prisoners of war. Despite the favourable conditions, he said, the opportunity to reclaim Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) was missed. Even Kartarpur Sahib, located near the border, could not be secured. He expressed regret over the decision in 1974 to gift Katchatheevu Island to Sri Lanka, noting the ongoing hardships faced by fishermen from Tamil Nadu due to this transfer. PM Modi underscored that the opposition carried a decades-long intent to withdraw Indian forces from Siachen, compromising national security. PM Modi reminded the House that following the horrific 26/11 Mumbai attacks, the then government chose to resume dialogue with Pakistan just weeks after the tragedy, allegedly under foreign pressure. He remarked that despite the magnitude of 26/11, the then government did not expel a single Pakistani diplomat nor cancel even a single visa. PM Modi noted that Pakistani-sponsored terror attacks continued unabated, yet Pakistan retained the Most Favoured Nation status under the then government, which was never revoked. PM Modi emphasised that while the nation demanded justice for Mumbai, the then ruling party remained engaged in trade with Pakistan. He highlighted that while Pakistan was sending terrorists to wreak havoc, the then government held peace-oriented poetic gatherings in India. PM Modi asserted that his government ended this one-sided traffic of terror and misplaced optimism by revoking Pakistans MFN status, halting visas, and shutting down the Attari-Wagah border. He further criticised the Opposition for repeatedly mortgaging Indias national interests, citing the Indus Waters Treaty as a prime example. He pointed out that the treaty was executed by the then Prime Minister, involving rivers originating from India, rivers that have long been part of Indias cultural and spiritual legacy. PM Modi said that rivers like the Sindhu and Jhelum, once synonymous with Indias identity, were handed over for arbitration to the World Bank, despite being Indias own rivers and water. He denounced this move as a betrayal of Indias self-respect and cultural ethos. Condemning historical diplomatic decisions that compromised Indias water rights and development, particularly under the Indus Waters Treaty, PM Modi highlighted that the then PM agreed to allocate 80% of the water from rivers originating in India to Pakistan, leaving only 20% for a vast nation like India. He questioned the rationale behind this arrangement, calling it a failure of wisdom, diplomacy, and national interest. PM Modi remarked that rivers emerging from Indian soil belonged to the citizens, especially the farmers of Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir. He said the then ruling dispensations agreement pushed a large part of the country into water distress and sparked internal state-level water disputes, while Pakistan exploited the benefits. PM Modi emphasised that Indias cultural and civilizational connection with these rivers was disregarded, and the people most affected, Indias farmers, were denied their rightful access. He stated that if this situation had not arisen, numerous major water projects could have been developed on western rivers. Farmers across Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi would have had ample water, and drinking water shortages would not have existed. Additionally, India would have generated power through industrial systems. PM Modi noted that the then government even provided crores of rupees to Pakistan to build canals, further disadvantaging Indias interests. PM Modi informed that the Government has now put the Indus water treaty under abeyance in view of national interest. India has decided that blood and water will not flow together, exclaimed the PM. Noting that before 2014, the country lived under a constant shadow of insecurity, PM Modi recalled how frequent announcements at public places, railway stations, bus stands, airports, temples, warned people to avoid unattended items due to the fear of bombs, describing it as a climate of fear that prevailed across the nation. He emphasised that weak governance under the then ruling dispensation led to countless civilian casualties, stating that the government had failed to protect its citizens. PM Modi affirmed that terrorism could have been curbed and presented the progress made in the last 11 years as proof, highlighting a sharp decline in terror incidents that had plagued the country between 2004 and 2014. PM Modi questioned why previous administrations did not take effective steps to control terrorism if it was indeed possible. He alleged that those dispensations allowed terrorism to flourish due to its politics of appeasement and vote bank considerations. PM Modi recalled the 2001 attack on Parliament and criticized the then ruling party for extending the benefit of doubt to convicted terrorist Afzal Guru. He highlighted how the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, despite the capture and global recognition of the Pakistani nationality of the terrorist Ajmal Kasab, were used to advance the narrative of saffron terror. PM Modi cited that a leader from the then ruling party even told a top US diplomat that Hindu groups posed a greater threat than Lashkar-e-Taiba, portraying this as an example of their narrative-building abroad. He strongly condemned opposition for preventing the full implementation of the Indian Constitution in Jammu & Kashmir, stating that Baba Saheb Ambedkars Constitution was barred from entering the region due to appeasement politics consistently compromising national security. PM Modi invoked a unifying sentiment, saying that political differences may persist, but unity of purpose must prevail in national interest. Referring to the Pahalgam tragedy, PM Modi highlighted how it deeply wounded the nation and prompted Indias decisive response through Operation Sindoor, which embodies courage, self-reliance, and national resolve. He praised the Indian delegations who, with conviction and clarity, represented the nation globally. Their advocacy, he said, echoed the Sindoor Spirit that now guides Indias posture both within and beyond its borders. Expressing dismay over the reaction of some opposition leaders who allegedly opposed Indias assertive global messaging, PM Modi lamented attempts to silence those who spoke in the House in defense of the nation. Addressing this mindset, he shared a poetic expression that called for courageous and purposeful discourse. PM Modi urged the opposition to abandon political pressures that allegedly led to leniency towards Pakistan and warned against turning moments of national triumph into political ridicule. PM Modi made it unequivocally clear: India will dismantle terrorism at its roots. Operation Sindoor remains ongoing, serving as a direct warning to Pakistan, until cross-border terrorism is halted, India will continue its responsive actions. PM Modi concluded with a firm resolve to ensure Indias future remains safe and prosperous, and expressed deep gratitude to the House for engaging in meaningful deliberation that reflects the sentiments of the people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to commend Shahs speech, highlighting the critical role played by both Operation Mahadev and Operation Sindoor in neutralising terrorist threats Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a meeting of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), in New Delhi. ANI In a powerful address to the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday (July 29) the success of Operation Mahadev, which culminated in the elimination of three terrorists responsible for the brutal Pahalgam attack on April 22. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to commend Shahs speech, highlighting the critical role played by both Operation Mahadev and Operation Sindoor in neutralising terrorist threats and reinforcing the governments commitment to national security. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In this remarkable speech in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah Ji gives important details about Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which have played a vital role in eliminating cowardly terrorists. His address also focuses on our Governments efforts towards keeping our nation secure, PM Modi wrote in his post on X. In this remarkable speech in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah Ji gives important details about Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which have played a vital role in eliminating cowardly terrorists. His address also focuses on our Government's efforts towards keeping https://t.co/FQ7cCNl4nO Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 29, 2025 The operation, executed on Monday in Jammu and Kashmir, resulted in the elimination of three terrorists, including Suleiman, a Lashkar commander, along with Afghan and Jibran, who were identified as the masterminds behind the Pahalgam attack. Shah revealed that meticulous planning began mere hours after the April 22 attack, with a clear directive to security forces to ensure the terrorists could not flee the country. The operation was a coordinated effort involving the Indian Army, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Jammu and Kashmir Police. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Shah disclosed that ballistic tests conducted at Chandigarhs Forensic Science Laboratory confirmed that the weapons recovered from the terroristsan M9 carbine and two AK-47swere the same used in the Pahalgam killings. The Home Minister also credited the success of Operation Mahadev to intelligence gathered by the Intelligence Bureau (IB), which pinpointed the terrorists location in the Dachigam area on May 22. The IB and the army soldiers continuously worked on capturing signals of the ultra system [a Chinese encrypted communication system]. Finally, on July 22, the sensors established their exact location, and then the Armys 4 Para, J&K police, and CRPF joined hands. They were finally killed yesterday [Monday], Shah said. The identities of the terrorists were further verified by Parvaiz Jothar and Bashir Jothar, who allegedly provided shelter to the group. Shah highlighted the precision of the operation, noting, We sent human assets who had seen their faces, who identified their bodies and confirmed that they were the ones who shot innocent tourists in Baisaran Valley on April 22. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Operation Mahadev was not an isolated effort. Shah also referenced Operation Sindoor, which targeted the terrorists handlers earlier, and Indias broader response to the April 22 attack, which included strikes on nine terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7, leading to a four-day military exchange. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India set out with the clear objective of hitting the epicentre of terrorism and achieved the objective. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on Operation Sindoor on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India started Operation Sindoor with the clear objective of hitting the epicentre of terrorism. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on Operation Sindoor, Modi listed the objective with all three cross-border military action that India has conducted in his tenure. Modi said that India conducted surgical strike in 2016 was to destroy launchpad of terrorists. He said the purpose with the Balakot airstrike in 2019 was to destroy the training centre of terrorists. He said that the objective of the Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam attack in 2025 was the dismantling of epicentres of terrorism. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In 2016, India launched the surgical strikes in the Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) after a terrorist attack in Uri of Jammu and Kashmir. In 2019, India conducted airstrike in Pakistans Balakot in response to a suicide bombing in J&Ks Pulwama that targeted a convoy of CRPF personnel. On the intervening night of May 6-7, India launched Operation Sindoor and struck terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK). The operation was launched in response to the attack in J&Ks Pahalgam in which terrorists killed 26 people. Pakistan-based terrorists claimed responsibility for the attack. After Indian strikes on terrorist sites, Pakistan targeted Indian military and civilian sites on May 7 and India responded with strikes on Pakistans military sites, including airbases and air defence units. After four days of conflict in which India neutralised major Pakistani airfields and air defence units, Pakistan sent a request for a ceasefire on May 10 that India granted. While India and Turkey have the potential to develop economic and commercial relations, Ankaras political orientations and President Recep Erdogans Islamic bent of mind and his larger-than-life image of himself prevent the growth of ties Turkey, or, to be diplomatically correct, Turkiye (but the country is still popularly known as Turkey), has had close ties with Pakistan since the early 1950s. Their inspiration was Turkey and Pakistans pro-West orientation during the Cold War. Turkey became a member of NATO in 1952, and both countries joined the US-created Central Treaty Organisation (Cento) in 1955. That led their armed forces, which controlled the destinies of their respective countries, to be drawn to each other. This process was encouraged by the US because it considered them to be bulwarks against the Soviets. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Thus, the Cold War cast a shadow on India-Turkey relations because India was a non-aligned country. Thus, also, Turkeys sympathies, through the decades, were with Pakistan on contentious India-Pakistan matters. These included the Jammu and Kashmir issue. Its disposition for Pakistan was not limited to expressions of diplomatic support but covered the defence dimension as well. It was this approach that was decisively demonstrated during Operation Sindoor. Turkish diplomatic statements were biased against India. During the aerial operation, Pakistan extensively used Turkish drones between the nights of May 6-7 and the cessation of hostilities on May 10. It is also believed that Turkey continued its military supplies during the crucial period when Operation Sindoor was actively underway. India was indignant at Turkey openly siding with Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. It signalled its unhappiness by withdrawing the security clearance of the Turkish company Celebi Aviation, which, through its Indian entity, handled cargo at nine Indian airports. This action was appropriate. India reinforced its disapproval of Turkish policies during Operation Sindoor when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Turkeys arch-rival Cyprus on June 15-16. During his trip Modi reiterated Indias traditional support for Cyprus in its disputes with Turkey. The India-Cyprus Joint Statement issued after Modis discussions with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides noted, inter alia, India reiterated its unwavering and consistent support for the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of the Republic of Cyprus. In this regard, both sides emphasised the need to avoid unilateral actions as essential for creating a conducive environment for the resumption of meaningful negotiations. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This is contrary to the Turkish position on the Cyprus issue. Indeed, Turkeys all-out support for Turkish Cypriots manifested itself fully after its invasion of the island in 1974. Turkish troops since then are present in the entity, which now calls itself the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TNRC). Turkey actually wants TNRC to become a sovereign state with full international recognition. A United Nations Peacekeeping Force ensures the maintenance of peace in Cyprus. Before proceeding further to attempt a prognosis of how the India-Turkey-Pakistan ties will evolve, it would be appropriate to consider Turkeys diplomatic responses to the Pahalgam terrorist attack and the beginning and pause of Operation Sindoor. Turkeys Foreign Ministry condemned the Pahalgam attack, calling it heinous. It also stated, We are deeply saddened to learn that many people lost their lives and many others were injured in a terrorist attack that targeted civilians in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir today (April 22). Turkey did call the Pahalgam attack a terrorist one, but what is clearly seen in its carefully crafted statement is that it left the question of where the terrorists came from completely open. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Turkey has a long tradition of refined diplomacy. Hence, its decision not to enter into the question of where the terrorists came from was deliberate. Pakistans sponsorship of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir has been going on for thirty-five years, and Turkey is not oblivious of this fact. On the day of the Pahalgam attack, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was in Ankara on apparently a pre-scheduled visit. However, this was all the more reason for Turkey to signal, even obliquely, that the sponsorship of terrorism was not acceptable. On Operation Sindoor, Turkeys Foreign Ministry stated the attack carried out by India last night (night of May 6-7) raises the risk of an all-out war. We condemn such provocative steps as well as attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. We call on the parties to exercise common sense and refrain from unilateral actions. We expect that measures will be taken to reduce tensions in the region as soon as possible and that the necessary mechanisms, including in the field of counter-terrorism, will be put in place to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents. We also support Pakistans call for an investigation into the April 22 terrorist attack. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This was clearly a pro-Pakistani statement. It virtually called Operation Sindoor provocative and condemned it. Going further, it supported Pakistans demand for an international investigation into the Pahalgam attack. Turkey also showed its partisanship by not demanding that a similar international investigation should be carried out on the Jaffar Express attack, which the Pakistani military stated was undertaken by India through the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). By issuing this statement, Turkey indicated that it fully stood behind Pakistan. This could only cause outrage in the government and people of India, as indeed it did. On the day of the ceasefireMay 10Turkey again issued a completely pro-Pakistani statement. Its Foreign Ministry noted, We welcome the declaration of a ceasefire between Pakistan and India. We call on the parties to make maximum use of the opportunity provided by the ceasefire to establish a direct and healthy dialogue. It is evident that dialogue mechanisms to prevent similar escalations, including in the field of counter-terrorism, need to be established to ensure sustainable stability in South Asia. We extend our appreciation to all countries, in particular the USA, which have contributed to the ceasefire. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In this statement Turkey contradicted or ignored two basic Indian positions. The first was that the cessation of hostilities was because of direct Indian and Pakistani contacts and not caused by the intervention of any third party, including the United States. The second position that Turkey ignored was Indias valid stand on talks with Pakistan. These are best summarised in the words talks and terrorism cannot go together'. Taken together, Turkeys three statements were so completely against India that they could have no reaction but to bring India-Turkish ties to a new low. They also naturally angered the Indian public, and calls went out that Indian tourists should not visit Turkey; its popularity as a tourist destination for Indians has grown in recent years. Besides, Indian filmmakers have also considered Turkish locales for shooting their films. If India was disappointed by Turkeys partisanship, Pakistan was delighted. Shehbaz Sharif, who was in Turkey on April 22, again went to the country on May 25 to thank President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his support of Pakistan before and during Operation Sindoor. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A media release from Shehbaz Sharifs office gushed, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who was accompanied by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the government and people of Turkiye [Turkey] for their unwavering support to Pakistan during the recent developments in South Asia, underscoring the strength of the fraternal bonds between the two nations." He lauded Turkeys principled stance and the outpouring of support of goodwill of the Turkish people for Pakistan and termed it as a source of great comfort and strength for Pakistan. Significantly, the media release also noted, Both leaders reaffirmed their principled support for each others core concerns, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. What the Pakistani media release omitted to mention is Turkeys core concern, which is the Cyprus dispute. Certainly, this omission would not have pleased the Turks, but they would have taken it in their stride. Turkey and Pakistans evolution has greatly differed over the past two decades in one major respect. President Erdogan, who has been the effective ruler of Turkey in this period, has succeeded in eliminating the Turkish armed forces role in its political life. The armed forces considered themselves as the guardians of the secular legacy of Kemal Ataturk, the father of modern Turkey. They ensured that Turkeys Islamic forces were kept out of the countrys public life. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, Erdogan, who is an Islamic revivalist, cut the armed forces to size with the help of the Turkish hinterland, which was never in full sympathy with Kemalist ideals. This is unlike Pakistan, where the armed forces are still in control of the country despite the veneer of democracy. What now joins the two countries is that they are both coming more and more in the grip of conservative Islam. At the same time, the professional Turkish army continues its technical linkages with its Pakistani counterpart. In view of these factors, it seems unlikely that Turkey is capable of taking an objective view of developments in the Indian subcontinent or pressing Pakistan to abandon the use of terrorism as a military security doctrine. This can only mean that while India and Turkey have the potential to develop economic and commercial ties, Turkeys political orientations and also Erdogans Islamic bent of mind and his larger-than-life image of himself will prevent their growth. The possibility of positive growth in India-Turkish ties is therefore bleak. The writer is a former Indian diplomat who served as Indias Ambassador to Afghanistan and Myanmar, and as secretary, the Ministry of External Affairs. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Recent developments suggest a thaw in India-China relations following Prime Minister Narendra Modis meeting with President Xi Jinping at the 16th Brics Summit at Kazan on October 23, 2024. In recent months, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have visited China in the context of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). This provided an opportunity to exchange views with Chinese leaders on a range of issues. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Relations are clearly on the mend after a long hiatus following the bloodletting at Galwan in the summer of 2020. Sustained engagement at various levelspolitical, diplomatic, and militaryhas paved the way for a gradual normalisation of ties. The agreement in October last year on resuming patrolling and grazing activities in eastern Ladakh was a positive step. De-escalation, though, remains to be achieved and may take time, given the complexity of deployment on both sides. The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, after a gap of five years, advances the cause of normalisation. So does the decision in the latest round of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) to resume tourist visas for Chinese nationals. Hopefully, this will enhance mutual confidence and facilitate the early resolution of other outstanding issues such as the resumption of direct flights, the mutual stationing of journalists, hydrological data, and, issues surrounding trade and investment. China unilateral action to build the worlds largest dam - the Medog Hydropower Station - to harness the waters of the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra), just before it enters Arunachal Pradesh, has sparked off concern in India and added a new issue. Even after Galwan, bilateral trade has remained high, with India facing a trade deficit of $99.2 billion in 2024-2025. Chinese investments in India, on the other hand, have shrunk steadily after new guidelines were issued in Press Note 3 of April 2020, just before the Galwan faceoff, which stipulated that an entity of a country, which shares a land border with India or where the beneficial owner of an investment into India is situated in or is a citizen of any such country, can invest only under the government route. According to the Ministry of Commerce of China, Chinese investments in India in the year 2023 were $60.37 million, and cumulative Chinese investments in India were $3.2 billion till 2023 (since 2015). According to DPIIT data, Chinas cumulative foreign direct investment into India till March 2025 (since April 2000) was $2.5 billion. This is nowhere near the $20 billion that China had committed to invest in India in 2014 in the industrial and infrastructure sectors. The reasons for this are many, including security concerns, the Chinese model of using their own labour, visa issues and charges of violation of economic laws. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Initial statements from China after the 22 April killings in Pahalgam were disappointing. China avoided outright condemnation of the terrorist attack on innocent tourists and instead called for a fair and just investigation, understanding of Pakistans legitimate security concerns, and, pledged support for Pakistan in safeguarding its sovereignty and security interests". China also reportedly supplied PL-15 air-to-air missiles to Pakistan and helped the latter in scrubbing out any reference in the UN Security Council statement to the now US-proscribed proxy of LeT, The Resistance Front (TRF), the terrorist group that had taken responsibility for the attack. Even as recently as June 2025, the SCO Defence Ministers forum held in Qingdao failed to finalise a consensus document essentially because of the reluctance on the part of China and Pakistan to admit any language condemning the Pahalgam attack. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was obliged to take a firm stand on the non-inclusion of such language. For the SCO, it is a matter of great irony that Pakistan and China should take such a stand given that the three evils identified as common threats by the regional grouping are terrorism, extremism, and separatism. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It augurs well that Prime Minister Narendra Modis participation and personal diplomacy in the 17th Brics Summit in Brazil ensured that the Joint Declaration extensively covers a number of Indias priorities, including multilateral reforms, global governance, the interests of the Global South, and climate change, as well as cross-border terrorism. It contained unambiguous language to the effect that we [Brics nations] condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, 2025, during which 26 people were killed and many more injured. We reaffirm our commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing, and safe havens. This proves that Indias position on zero tolerance for terrorism and rejection of safe havens and double standards in countering terrorism was accommodated in the outcome document. More relevantly, the language indirectly served to highlight the absence of similar language in the SCO process. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It is the first time that any Brics joint statement or declaration has specifically condemned any terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. This vindicates Modis proactive stance on combatting terrorism as well as his decision to send All Party delegations by way of outreach to countries across the world to sensitise global opinion about Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and Operation Sindoor. There is clearly a link between Indias proactive policies to combat terrorism and the language contained in outcome documents at multilateral fora. Even after the horrendous terrorist attacks on Mumbai in 2008, the then Bric Countries Leaders Joint Statement had failed to make any mention of it. The document had merely made a passing reference to opposition to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In fact, even though India suffered a number of terrorist attacks since the establishment of Brics, it was only at the Brics Leaders Declaration of September 2017 that Pakistan-based terrorist organisations such as the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) finally found mention in a statement. Clearly, the Modi governments zero tolerance for terrorism is having an effect in multilateral groupings, especially where Pakistan does not have room to engage in subterfuge and obfuscation, as in the SCO. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The fact that China went along with the consensus language at the 17th Brics Summit suggests that Beijing understands that resisting references to the Pahalgam terrorist attack at Pakistans behest would only erode its credibility on the question of global cooperation in combatting terrorism. By joining the consensus at the Brics Summit, China has sent a positive signal to India, although this may not change the situation in the SCO. Today, it is incumbent for neighbours such as India and China to forge a convergence on a common threat such as terrorism. After all, the Xinjiang region in China has been plagued by radicalisation and terrorism for years, with links to Pakistan as well. Another aspect where one hopes for some change in Chinas outlook is at the UN, where it has been blocking the listing of Pakistan-based terrorists under the UNSC 1267 ISIL and Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee. Now that the US has sanctioned TRF, there is a good chance that this Pakistan-based affiliate of the LeT will also be listed by the UN committee without hindrance by China. If this happens, it would add to the forward momentum in India-China relations. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The boundary question remains at the core of differences between the two Asian giants. In recent years, border tensions have been characterised by a degree of regularity of occurrence, with shorter yet intense cycles of confrontation. Each downturn has eroded mutual trust and confidence, be it the Doklam stand-off or the Galwan fracas, reinforcing negative perceptions. Rebuilding trust is a task that is in for the long haul. It was only in 1976 that ambassadorial ties were restored, a full fifteen years after the Indian envoy was recalled in 1961 in the run-up to the war the following year. It took a few more years before official-level talks on the boundary dispute commenced in the 1980s. They were moments of hope. Subsequent developments did not fully live up to the expectations and sentiments expressed in the meeting between then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and senior Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping during the formers visit to Beijing in 1988. Dengs words to the effect that China and India must both develop for a real Asian Century to emerge need to be revisited today. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD China needs to address Indian concerns about the adverse balance of trade and lack of reciprocal market access, which have less to do with structural differences between the two economies and are more the result of tariff, non-tariff, and technical barriers to trade imposed by Beijing. In fact, there are new concerns over the growing list of trade restrictions placed by China on the export of rare earth magnets for electric vehicles (EVs), wind turbines, and electronics, besides tunnel boring machines and certain high-value fertilisers to India. Now is the time to build on the positive developments by systematically addressing the remaining issues. Beijing also needs to revisit its frame of reference for India. The revolutionary Communist Party of China (CPC) viewed India through a jaundiced ideological lens. This gave rise to prejudice in its dealings with India after the latters independence as well. Mahatma Gandhis teachings of peace and non-violence could not have been more different from Mao Zedongs advocacy of violent class struggle. Chinas disregard of its heritage of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism may also have played a role in creating a disconnect between two civilisational neighbours. The negative perceptions are mutual, and they persist. Chinese assessments smack of deep-rooted suspicion about India being in cahoots with the US to contain Chinas rise. India looks upon the Sino-Pakistan tandem, clearly on exhibit during Operation Sindoor, with deep concern. In India, there is strong public opinion that even as China constantly seeks reaffirmation of a One China policy, it has failed to show similar sensitivity for Indias territorial integrity. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), one of the main planks of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and blatantly disregards Indias sovereignty. Yet, the thaw is real and calls for sustained efforts to keep relations on a forward-looking track. At the same time, the two sides must move forward with realistic expectations to forge a stable and cooperative relationship. It is, in the final analysis, a goal worth pursuing. The author, a former ambassador and China specialist, is the Director General of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Lately, President Muizzu has conceded Delhi as a loyal friend and is working closely with India for economic recovery, which is unlikely to happen without the Maldives helping itself President of the Maldives Mohamed Muizzu, right, shakes hand with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after signing a memorandum of understanding between the two countries in Male, Maldives, Friday, July 25, 2025. (Indian Prime Ministers Office via AP) At the end of Prime Minister Narendra Modis two-day visit to the Maldives, 25-26 July, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said it all in his post-talks news briefing. Together, the two sides were looking into the future, not the past, he said. This was Indias position even on a day-to-day basis when, as a freshly minted president, host Mohamed Muizzu bad-mouthed India as much as he could for any Maldivian leader on bilateral matters. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The visit was rich in opticsyes. From a public diplomacy perspective, it matters the most in both nations, especially now. The content of the visit was no less positive but was not flashy, as some in India especially had expected. At the end of their talks, Muizzu conceded at a news conference that India was a supportive, loyal friend. It had taken him months to realise it and acknowledge it in public. In retrospect, it is safe to conclude that in his first weeks as president, and during his presidential poll campaign earlier, he was misinformed and misled by those around him. Share of blame Yet, Muizzu cannot absolve himself of the blame, as he already had six long years of experience as a senior minister for the all-important infrastructure development sector during the successive presidencies of Mohammed Waheed and Abdulla Yameen. He spent five years through Yameens full term in office, during which time he was not known to have even squirmed at the presidents anti-democracy initiatives. When Yameen launched his India Out campaign while in the Opposition, Muizzu was seen in those rallies, though not all of them. In turn, this made Muizzu suspect in ordinary Indian eyes, as New Delhi too had reasons to brand Yameen as anti-India, more than for his being pro-China or anything else. It was based on Yameens perceptions about India in the context of Maldivian domestic politics. This is one area where Muizzu too could still trip if he does not take the India element out of his domestic political calculations. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This includes motivated domestic perceptions that India backs democratic forces in the archipelago, represented purportedly by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), and that every other leader, including Muizzu, is an autocrat or despot. This domestic perception among all political players in the country is not supported by Indias actions that are people-centric, not personality-centric. Greater legitimacy The Prime Minister was accompanied by a high-level team, which included External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. This indicated the level of engagement that accompanied the visit. Incidentally, the presence of NSA Doval was a lesser-known fact for the media in the two countries, but that does not necessarily mean that there were secret talks on the security front, as often assumed. For optics, you had Muizzu receiving the prime minister personally at the Male airport, accompanied later at the official reception with a 21-gun salute, both of them unprecedented, and Modis presence as the chief guest at the 60th Independence Day of Maldives. It was also the 60th anniversary of bilateral diplomacy, as India was among the first nations to recognise the new Maldivian regime post-independence in 1965. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Locally, eyebrows were raised, yes, when President Muizzu addressed a joint rally of the Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF) and the Maldivian Police Service (MPS) on the afternoon of Independence Day, when the Indian visitor was still in town. This was the first time an incumbent president was addressing the two together after then-President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom bifurcated the infamous National Security Service (NSS) in 2006, in the run-up to full democratisation through a new constitution and presidential elections in 2008. Looked at from a domestic angle, the Indian Prime Ministers visit, followed by that of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in double-quick succession (July 28-29), is not about his administration opening up to ever-supportive neighbours, which is the truth of the matter. Instead, the perception, starting from Camp Muizzu, is one of his acquiring international legitimacy after having stabilised his hold over domestic governance and politics, in that order. Third visitor, who? STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Given the brutal majority that his Peoples National Congress (PNC) enjoys in the 93-member Parliament, there was no need for Muizzu to get an undemocratic anti-defection law passed without debate. Nor was there any justification for the government-controlled Judicial Service Commission (JSC) suspending first and sacking three Justices of the Supreme Court when the full, seven-judge bench was set to hear a petition challenging the anti-defection law. Yet, he did both and initiated more such moves that critics claimed were anti-democratic. It is in this context that critics see Muizzus eagerness to have more foreign visitors on invitation, to tell his world that the international community stood by him. Hence, there is also speculation, if not betting, on who the lucky third one would be after Modi and Anura to receive Muizzus invitation to visit his country. New Delhi may not have any direct interest, least of all influence, in Muizzus choice of the next couple of overseas Heads of State and/or Government visiting Maldives on invitation. Yet, India would be watching it all from the ringside to have a clear perspective of Muizzus foreign, security, and overseas economic policiesnot necessarily in that order. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Will the next visitor be the Chinese Prime Minister, if not President Xi Jinping, or Turkeys President Recep Erdogan? After all, Muizzu had courted both nations in his early weeks in office, and possibly before his election, too, and from whose shoulders he was firing (their?) anti-India salvos, too, before seeing their true colours, and tucked his tail between his legs without losing time or initiative. Credit and more On the constructive side, India and Maldives signed a total of eight agreements during Modis visit, all of them discussed and debated threadbare in-house in the two governments and between them. The list includes one on a $565 million Line of Credit (LoC) from India and another on pharmaceutical supplies. This, in a way, is acknowledgement of the Muizzu Governments failure to obtain quality medicines at affordable prices from Europe without depending on a single source (India), as he had thumbed his chest last year. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Before the pharma deal now, Muizzu had gone back on his muscle-flexing on commissioning annual supplies of essentials, including rice, sugar, and wheat flour, from distant Turkey, again to limit dependence on a single source. It happened after the Houthis attacks in the Red Sea provided a legitimate excuse for Erdogan to possibly go back on his purported promise during Muizzus visit only weeks after assuming office in November 2023. In Male, PM Modi also inaugurated multiple India-funded projects and handed over the keys to owners under a housing scheme. In a city with the highest population density for a South Asian capital, urban housing is still politically and electorally sensitive. Balanced FTA Of equal importance is one setting the terms of reference for further discussions on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and Maldives. For now, Maldives especially has learnt a lot from the hurried FTA President Yameen signed with China in 2017 but whose implementation he and his successor, President Ibrahim Ibu Solih, both did not take up. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Now, after implementing the China FTA since January 1 this year, Muizzu has found out that Maldives was losing scarce revenue, big time. Maldivians were spending dollars in big numbers, not only in conventional trade but also through online sales of Chinese goods, airlifted mostly out of Hong Kong. In recent months, this has affected small and medium traders in the country. They form a key electoral constituency. But then a 30 per cent service tax on specified online trade firms dealing in Chinese goods has not helped after the latter introduced equal discounts for their Maldivian customers. This would engage Indian negotiators as they work out the details of the Indian FTA in the coming weeks and months. They will also have another example in the Sri Lanka-Maldives FTA, which was signed during President Dissanayakes visit, post-Modis. National dichotomy Maldives woes owe to the nation living beyond its means. This has an indirect impact on national security and foreign policy that flows from over-dependence on external assistance. In the name of upholding national security and sovereignty viz the ever-helpful Indian neighbour, presidents like Yameen and Muizzu welcomed extra-regional powers, especially China. It only complicated the nations security situation even more. They too silently acknowledged post facto that China had a larger scheme in which the Maldives was only a speck, and they could do nothing about it if sucked in more than ready. But domestic compulsions stood in the way of Yameen applying the correctives. With little choice after he found out that China, and also Turkey, did not match word with action, Muizzu at least is on a course correction viz India relations. Maldives problems reside in the economic sphere. In a 500,000-population, half of whom are on the electoral list, first-time voters in their thousands are jobless. They tend to side with him who promises the moon. Frustration has already driven them to drugs, and the puritans among them tend to take to religious radicalisationin the absence of any left political movement. Skill sets & FDI All these when available jobs, again in tens of thousands, are going to foreigners, mostly Bangladeshis but with a sizable sprinkling of Indians and some Sri Lankans, too. This is because local youth ambitions are not matched by skill sets that can attract big-ticket FDI in non-tourism sectors, too. Competitive populism is the bane. Every post-democracy president, including incumbent Muizzu, promised to set matters right but has been swept away by electoral compulsions. Going back to the days of elected autocracy is not an option, but that is what successive post-democracy presidents have attempted in their own waysbut failed on both fronts. The people simply threw them out in favour of yet another untested individual, whose face was relatively fresh and whose promises looked beneficial. All of it often leads to situations wherein incumbent governments are tempted to fall back even more on external economic assistance, but in terms of competitive ideology, though none exists. Successful experience Muizzu is working closely with India for economic recovery that is unlikely to happen without Maldives helping itself. Given Indias successful experience in pulling itself out of the fiscal/economic mess that it found itself in the early nineties, the Maldivian government, as a democracy, can also seek guidance in the matter, after downsizing them to Maldivian levels. In 2013, President Yameens foreign policy document claimed that his government would make the nation economically strong to be able to have an independent foreign and security policy. The reference was, of course, to India. He failed on the first count, so his government did not reach the second stage, despite his wooing China, as if the nation had a panacea for Maldives ills. Muizzu began by placing himself in such a conundrum but has been quick to retrieve at least some of the lost ground. How he proceeds from here will decide the future for the Maldives and strategic peace for the regions nations, including India and Sri Lanka. That is where the Maldives strategic reset should begin, where the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) could provide a basis for defining/redefining the nations priorities in the present and the future. Such an approach alone can help the Maldives and Muizzu to achieve what they intend to achieve on the domestic front. That is without them having to invite and/or facilitate complex competitive competition between superpower America and wannabe superpower China, both of whom do not belong here but want to be here through proxies. The writer is a Chennai-based Policy Analyst & Political Commentator. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Operation Sindoor, as underscored by Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and S Jaishankar in Parliament, has made the world take note of Bharats military resolve, capabilities, and tactics. It has alarmed its enemies, but also made friends uneasy and envious As well-articulated by Indian ministers in Parliament, Bharat is no more a soft state that could be punched at will and gotten away without consequences. File image When the Congress-led Opposition called for a discussion on Operation Sindoor, one thought it would be a close contest. The Opposition leaders would grill the treasury benches. But as the proceedings of the past two days suggest, the Opposition seems to have come underprepared. Maybe it never expected the treasury benches to accept the motion to have a debate, though there were enough indications that the government was willing to discuss the matter in Parliament. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Opposition story doesnt end here: Had it just given a walkover, one still would have forgiven the Congress and its allies. The Congress went ahead and committed a hara-kiri. It did what even the Americans could not do in the wake of Operation Sindoor. While the Trump administration, in recognition of Islamabads role, labelled the Pakistan-based Resistance Front, a Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy, as a global terrorist outfit for its role in the killing of 26 people in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, the Congress came out categorically saying there was no Pakistan connection with the dastardly attack. Congress Self-Goal Had the self-goal come from a junior party member, one could still have ignored the transgression. But the statement came from one of the tallest Congress leaders, P Chidambaram, who had taken over as the countrys Home Minister soon after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. It wouldnt have taken much effort for him to find out the proof of Pahalgams Pakistani links. As Home Minister Amit Shah reminded the Opposition during the debate in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, We have their voter ID numbers. The rifles and cartridges used were made in Pakistan. Theres, however, a pattern to the Congress goof-up on Pakistan-linked terror attacks. Even in 26/11, a section of senior party leaders went out of the way to project it as saffron terror, even when the Mumbai attack had an undeniable Pakistani connection. Interestingly, these are the same people who are invariably at the forefront to delink terror with religion when it has any jihadi angle. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh too raised 26/11 in his well-rounded speech in the Lok Sabha on July 28, 2025. While underscoring the success of Operation Sindoor, he also turned the spotlight on past failures. He cited the UPA governments indecisive response to the 2008 Mumbai attacks, quoting Pranab Mukherjees memoirs, The Coalition Years, to show how military retaliation was consciously ruled out. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Former High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria, in his 2024 book Anger Management, elaborates on the moment when then Foreign Secretary Shivshankar Menon suggested striking LeTs Muridke base in Pakistanonly for Mukherjee to quietly shelve the idea. In one meeting, in the wake of the Mumbai attacks, as Foreign Secretary (Shivshankar) Menon, High Commissioner (Satyabrata) Pal, and Joint Secretary (TCA) Raghavan sat across the table in his (Mukherjees) South Block room, he (EAM) asked his advisers what should be done. After a brief silence, Menon said India could target the LeT headquarters in Muridke with a cruise missile. Visibly startled, Mukherjee paused to clean his glasses, then thanked the officers to signal that the meeting was over, Bisaria recalls. Bisaria, however, believes that had Bharat responded in 2008 as it did in 2016 and 2019, the message would have entered Pakistans security calculus. A decisive strike on a terrorist base like Muridke could have acted as an effective deterrent for the attacks India would face for a decade. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Menon, in his book Choices (2016), justifies the UPA inaction, claiming a strike might have united Pakistan behind its army and weakened a newly elected civilian government. Ironically, similar excuses were used even when the military was in power. Recall the narrative during General Pervez Musharrafs 2002 Agra visit, where he was projected as the best bet for peace. It took Bharat more than six decades to stop differentiating between Pakistans civilian and military regimesrealising both pursue the same objective, only with different tactics. According to Menon, the global reaction to Bharat-Pakistan tensions often seeks to split the blame 50:50 in the name of even-handednessexactly what the Pakistan Army desires. But Operation Sindoor upended that script. As External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha on Monday, 189 of 193 UN member nations supported Bharat post-strike. It wasnt aggression, but clarity of purpose and strength of execution that won global support. Trumps Doublespeak STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Jaishankar also corrected the record on US involvement. Refuting Donald Trumps claims of brokering a ceasefire, he clarified that no phone call occurred between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump from April 22 to June 17. The only calls were one of condolence and a later one in Canadanone regarding military operations or negotiations. While Trump sought credit for de-escalation, Bharat maintained strategic restraint without conceding ground. Rather than confront Trump publicly, the Modi government chose to make only matter-of-fact statementsrecognising that personality politics should not derail long-term Bharat-US relations. This despite the fact that Trump crossed three red lines: One, he falsely claimed credit for something Bharat had meticulously executed on its own terms; two, he equated Bharat with Pakistan, ignoring that one is a democratic, rules-based nation and the other a terror-harbouring, failed state; three, he undermined Bharats long-held position that its conflict with Pakistan is bilateral, not subject to third-party mediation. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The betrayal stung more because Trump had, until then, enjoyed rare goodwill in Bharat. Many had hoped he would recalibrate the Indo-American equation. That hope has now dimmed. His post-Sindoor positioning didnt just damage his credibilityit raised strategic doubts about Americas reliability in the long term. Trump may not realise it yet, but he is the biggest loser of the Operation Sindoor saga. Then of course, there was the Dragon. If Trump fumbled diplomatically, China miscalculated strategically. The Pahalgam massacre, according to intelligence analysis, bore Beijings fingerprintsexecuted through Pakistan to provoke Bharat into an overreaction. With China facing economic slowdown and diplomatic isolation, a distracted Bharat suits its interests. But Bharat didnt fall into the trap. It responded with precision, not provocationstunning Beijing. Since then, China has noticeably softened its tone, engaging in backchannel diplomacy. This shift isnt purely Bharat-drivenrising American hostility too has forced China to prioritise managing Trump over provoking Modi. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Now, Washington finds itself in a bind. Frustrated by what it sees as Bharats defiance, yet constrained by Chinas assertiveness, it cannot afford to alienate Delhi. Any attempt to push Bharat too far risks driving it closer to Beijing. A full-fledged Dragon-Elephant-Bear tango may be improbable given Chinas record of duplicity, but the very possibility has given Bharat new leverage in the global order. Conclusion As Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and Jaishankar made clear, Operation Sindoor was not just a military campaignit was a strategic declaration that Bharat would no longer absorb terrorism as fate, and would retaliate with clarity and conviction. Bharat is no more a soft state that could be punched at will and gotten away without consequences. Today, following the operation, Pakistan is cornered, its duplicity exposed. America is recalibrating, unsure how to handle a more assertive Bharat. And China is cautious, having blinked when it expected Bharat to flinch. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD But this is a moment for caution too. Operation Sindoor has made the world stand and stare at Bharats military resolve, capabilities, and tactics. It has made the country strongbut alone. Its enemies are alarmed, and friends are uneasy and envious. One false step could prove costly. The road ahead is interesting, yet intriguing. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. July 30, 2025, 03:45:13 (IST) Whatsapp Facebook Twitter First malaria treatment for newborn babies receives approval The first-ever therapeutic treatment for malaria in newborn babies has received approval, a significant milestone in global public health, the Washington Post says in a report. This development is particularly critical for the World Health Organisations Africa region, which bore the vast majority of the 597,000 global malaria deaths recorded in 2023, with children under five representing 76 percent of those fatalities. The new treatment, distinct from the preventative RTS,S vaccine, is viewed by development economists as a strategic investment in Africas human capital, with the potential to boost long-term economic growth by reducing infant mortality. However, its success hinges on the implementation capacity of African governments and sustained financing from international partners like the Global Fund, placing pressure on health ministries to ensure effective and equitable distribution. Even as Israels condemnation over the starvation in the Gaza Strip is rising by the day in the international community, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has discussed annexing the Palestinian enclave and blockading the area yet again, according to reports in the Israeli media. Even as Israels condemnation is rising by the day over the starvation in the Gaza Strip, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has held discussions about the annexation of the Palestinian enclave and blockading it yet again, according to Israeli media reports. Such discussions go in sharp contrast to the public statement by Netanyahus office that admitted that the situation in Gaza is difficult and said the government was working to ensure the flow of large quantities of aid into Gaza. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Netanyahu held a Cabinet meeting on Monday on Gaza in which the military presented a new plan for the siege of Gaza, according to the Kan broadcaster. Separately, other Hebrew-language outlets reported that Netanyahu and his Cabinet discussed the complete occupation or annexation of Gaza. ALSO READ: Trumps Gaza plan may sound death knell to two-state solution, push West Asia closer to disaster Unlike occupation, which is temporary control of an area, annexation means the permanent absorption of a territory by another country and asserting sovereignty over it, such as the Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014. Despite decades of Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories of West Bank and Gaza (until 2005), Israel has not annexed these territories. Annexation would amount to the most extreme step that Israel did not take even during decades of Gazas occupation. Netanyahu discusses annexation & blockade of Gaza Under the new plan presented by the military, Israel would again cut off all humanitarian aid to Gaza, according to the Kan broadcaster. Other outlets reported that, if Hamas would continue to reject Israels terms to end the war, Israel could completely occupy or annex entire Gaza. However, these reports said that Israel would give negotiations a chance before considering these actions. The Kan broadcaster reported that, under the plan presented by the military, Israel would dramatically expand its ground operations in Gaza, including to areas where it has not yet operated, to tighten pressure on Hamas. So far, Israel has expanded the control to around 75 per cent of Gaza. ALSO READ: 1 in 5 children in Gaza City is malnourished, says UN STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Separately, Maariv reported that Israel would start annexing parts of Gaza if Hamas would reject efforts for deal for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. In another report, Haaretz newspaper reported that Israel would first annex areas in the buffer zone along the Israel-Gaza border and then annex areas in northern Gaza near the Israeli cities of Sderot and Ashkelon and gradually continue the annexation until the annexation of the most or all of the strip. The newspaper further reported that the annexation of Gaza was part of Netanyahus attempt to keep extremist ministers Bezalel Smotrich and his party in his ruling coalition. Netanyahus Likud party does not have a majority of its own in the party and relies on support from far-right parties of the likes of Financial Minister Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Iran has warned it will respond in a more decisive manner if the US or Israel launches another strike on its nuclear sites. The warning, issued by FM Araghchi, came after Trump threatened to wipe out Irans nuclear programme if it restarts. Iran has issued a stern warning, vowing to respond in a more decisive manner if the United States or Israel carries out another strike on its nuclear facilities in the near future. The warning came on Monday from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, in response to US President Donald Trumps threat to wipe out Irans nuclear program if it resumes atomic activity. If aggression is repeated, we will not hesitate to react in a more decisive manner and in a way that will be IMPOSSIBLE to cover up, Araghchi said in a post on X. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Araghchi also stressed that diplomacy, not threats, is the only effective solution to concerns surrounding Irans nuclear programme. If there are concerns about the possible diversion of our nuclear program into non-peaceful purposes, the military option proved incapable, but a negotiated solution may work, he added. The full extent of damage from the US strikes remains unclear. These strikes followed a surprise Israeli bombing campaign, which Israel claimed was aimed at halting Irans nuclear weapons ambitions. The twin assaults have disrupted nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington that had only recently resumed in April. During a visit to Scotland on Monday, Trump defended the earlier airstrikes and issued fresh warnings. They can start again. If they do, well wipe it out faster than you can wave your finger at it, he said. Iran had earlier retaliated with missile attacks on Israeli cities and a U.S. base in Qatar, though Trump previously downplayed the severity of those responses. Just a month ago, fierce clashes erupted between Iran and Israel, with Tel Aviv targeting nuclear facilities and killing top Iranian generals and scientists. At the heart of the standoff remains the issue of uranium enrichment. While Tehran insists it has the sovereign right to enrich uranium, Washington sees that as a red line. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iran is the only country without nuclear weapons enriching uranium to 60 per cent, just below the 90 per cent needed for weapons-grade material. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Iran has repeatedly denied pursuing nuclear weapons and has shown willingness to negotiate enrichment levels, but not to relinquish its right to enrichment entirely. No one in their right mind would abandon the fruits of tremendous investment in homegrown and peaceful technology just because of foreign bullying, Araghchi said in his post. Israels Op Rising Lion Meanwhile, Israeli forces launched a large-scale military operation, codenamed Operation Rising Lion, targeting Irans key nuclear sites including Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. Nearly 200 warplanes dropped more than 330 bombs and missiles on over 100 locations, including enrichment facilities, centrifuge workshops, missile systems, and command centres. US strikes on Iranian facilities Following that, on June 22, the United States carried out its own high-impact strike under Operation Midnight Hammer. B-2 stealth bombers and Tomahawk missiles delivered 14 powerful bunker-buster bombs, severely damaging all three of the targeted nuclear sites. As Volodymyr Zelenskyy stands as the face of Ukraine today, that was not always the case. Before the Russian invasion of Ukraine, his approval rating was down to just 26%. It was his leadership in the war that surged his popularity. As per the latest survey, his approval stands at 65%. Even though Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been the face of Ukraine today, that was not always the case. Before the Russian invasion of Ukraine, his approval rating was just 26 per cent in 2021. It was his leadership in the war that surged his popularity. Within weeks, as he rallied the nation and stood defiant in the face of the invading Russian forces, Zelenskyys approval surged to 74 per cent. Even though his popularity and the Ukrainians trust in the government have taken a hit in recent months, Zelenskyy broadly remains popular in the public, with the latest survey by Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) in June showing an approval rating of 65 per cent. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, this survey was conducted before Ukrainians took to streets this month in opposition to the Zelenskyy-backed law that cracked down on the independence of the countrys anti-corruption agencies. Those protests were seen as a sign as even though the country remained united, the public was not willing to accept any authoritarian streaks. How Russian invasion propped Zelenskyy Five years after Russia invaded Ukraine and annexed Crimea, Zelenskyy came to power in 2019 on the back of anti-establishment platform. Zelenskyy campaign against corruption and promised to bring peace in the Donbas region where an Russia-backed insurgency had been raging. He also promised transparency in the government. However, within two years, Zelenskyy was criticised for not being able to deliver on his promises related to corruption and transparency. His administration was also accused of incommoding business interests. As a result, his approval ratings below the 50 per cent-mark throughout 2020 and 2021. In 2022, however, as Russia invaded Ukraine, Zelenskyy rose to the occasion and his handling of the war reversed the public perception. Zelenskyy has been hailed as the Winston Churchill of the age, the British premier who led his nation through the World War II and rallied international support against the Nazis rampaging through Europe. Zelenskyy refused to leave Ukraine even as many Western leaders urged him to do so. Dressed in military fatigues, he transformed into a wartime leader and that reflected in his ratings. In April 2022, Zelenskyys approval rating surged to 74 per cent. Apple is all set to close its Parkland Mall store in Dalian City on August 9 as consumer spending weakens in China. The companys sales for the second quarter dropped 2.3 per cent to $16 billion In a surprising development, Apple is preparing to close its retail store in China for the first time, a significant move in one of its most critical markets. On Monday (July 28), the tech giant announced that its Parkland Mall store in Dalian Citys Zhongshan District will permanently shut its doors on August 9, citing changes in the shopping complexs environment. This closure marks a pivotal moment for Apple as it faces an increasingly complex economic landscape in China. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Apple currently operates around 56 stores in China, representing over 10 per cent of its global retail network of more than 530 outlets. The decision to close the Parkland Mall location comes as the company observes a broader trend of retailers exiting the complex. In its statement, Apple highlighted its ongoing commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience through its extensive network of physical stores across Greater China and its robust online platform. Apple feels the heat as retail sales weaken Chinas economy is currently grappling with deflationary pressures, declining consumer spending, and global tariffs that are impacting exports. Retail sales growth in the country has been weaker than expected, and home prices are falling at an accelerated pace. Against this backdrop, Apples sales in China for the second quarter dropped 2.3 per cent to $16 billion, missing earlier projections of $16.8 billion. The Parkland Mall store is one of two Apple locations in Dalian City, with the other at the Olympia 66 shopping complex remaining open. The two stores are just a 10-minute drive apart, and Apple has assured employees affected by the closure that they will be offered opportunities to transfer to other locations. Apple not retreating While the closure reflects challenges in the Chinese market, Apple is not retreating entirely. The company is set to open a new store at Uniwalk Qianhai in Shenzhen on August 16 and has plans to expand with additional locations in Beijing and Shanghai over the next year. Earlier this year, Apple also opened a new store in Anhui province. Apple eyes other major markets for growth Beyond China, Apple is eyeing growth in other international markets, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and India. The companys focus on India has been particularly notable. According to research firm Canalys, India surpassed China as the top supplier of smartphones to the US in the June quarter, largely driven by Apples accelerated shift of iPhone assembly operations to India. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This move comes amid trade and tariff uncertainties, as well as ongoing negotiations between Washington and Beijing. Canalys reported that the share of made-in-China smartphones imported to the US dropped significantly to 25 per cent in the June quarter, down from 61% a year earlier, with India capturing much of the redirected production. Apples China Plus One strategy has gained momentum, with the company now manufacturing and exporting even its more complex Pro models from India. However, Apple continues to rely on Chinese manufacturers for a significant portion of its Pro model supply to the US. For the first time since opposition forces ousted the Assad dynasty in Syria, India has sent a delegation to hold talks with the countrys new administration led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, a leader with a jihadist past who is supported by Turkey. Suresh Kumar, the Director of the West Asia and North Africa (WANA) Division at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), holds talks with Syrian foreign minister Asaad Hassan Al-Sheibani in Damascus, Syria, on Monday, July 28, 2025. (Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Syria) For the first time since the opposition forces ousted Syrias longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad last year, India has sent a delegation to hold talks with the countrys new administration led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, a Turkey-supported Islamist leader who once headed a branch of Al-Qaeda. Last year, opposition forces led by Sharaas Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) escalated their offensive in November. Within weeks, they reached the capital of Damascus, capturing it on December 8 and forcing Assad to flee. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While there was no word from India on the meeting in Damascus, Syrias foreign ministry confirmed the meeting between Suresh Kumar, the Director of the West Asia and North Africa (WANA) Division at the Ministry of External Affairs, and Syrian foreign minister Asaad Hassan Al-Sheibani. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Mr Asaad Hassan Al-Sheibani, received in the capital Damascus an Indian delegation headed by Mr Suresh Kumar, Director of the West Asia and North Africa Department at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. The meeting addressed issues of common interest and ways to enhance relations between the two countries in a manner that serves the interests of both peoples, said the Syrian foreign ministry in a statement on X. There have been concerns about the new administration in Syria, owing to the jihadist past of its leader and group the HTS that he runs. Moreover, Sharaas principal supporter, Turkey, has pursued an overtly anti-India agenda lately, supporting Pakistan not just diplomatically but also militarily. A beginning had to be made While there was no official word, a person familiar with the matter told Hindustan Times that India sent a delegation as a beginning had to be made at some point about a bilateral relationship with the new Syrian administration. A beginning had to be made and India had to register its presence. You have to open the door at some point, the person said on condition of anonymity. With Assad, India had a comfortable relationship and Assad sided with India even on the issue of Kashmir on international platforms. India also regularly sent humanitarian support to Syria. Notably, India never closed the embassy in Damascus even as a civil war raged in the country. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In the meeting with Kumar, Syrian foreign minister Sheibani dealt with issues of mutual concern and ways of enhancing relations between the two countries in the interests of both peoples, according to Syrias state-owned SANA news agency. Beside the foreign minister, Kumar also met Syrian health minister Musab Al-Ali and the two sides discussed ways of enhancing health cooperation, particularly in the pharmaceutical industries and medical training fields, as per the news agency. The two sides discussed mechanism for implementing a scholarship for Syrian students, in addition to allocating a specialised engineering cooperation programme for government employees, the agency reported. Al-Ali said that Syria aspired to establish a strong partnership with India in the pharmaceutical industries and health technologies, which would contribute to supporting the national health sector and providing medicines, the agency reported. On his part, Kumar said that India will continue to fund specialised training courses for Syrian personnel, coordinate the training of Syrian doctors in Indian centers, and enhance cooperation in the fields of nursing, pharmaceutical industries, and pharmaceutical exports, the agency reported. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With outreach to Myanmars military regime and discussions about a similar outreach to rebels, US President Donald Trump appears to be opening up a new front against China with eyes on Myanmars rare earth reserves. Here are the proposals on the table to divert Myanmars rare earths away from China. US President Donald Trump appears to be eyeing a reset of ties with Myanmar and opening up a new front against China. Myanmar is among the largest producer of rare earths and a key supplier to China. At a time when China has leveraged its control of the rare earth supplies to push Trump on the backfoot in trade talks, he appears to have set eyes on Myanmars rare earth reserves. In recent days, the Trump administration has heard proposals to develop ties with the various parties in Myanmar including the junta and rebels to acquire access to the countrys rare earth reserves, according to Reuters. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD These proposals have suggested that the United States should partner with like-minded countries like India to extract and refine rare earths mined in Myanmar. Rare earths are a collective of 17 minerals that are used in virtually everything in the modern world, ranging from household electronic items to cars and fighter planes and missiles. China controls around 90 per cent of the worlds supply of refined rare earths and rare earth magnets. China has leveraged this near-monopoly to bend the countries, including the United States, to its will in bilateral disputes and trade negotiations. ALSO READ The Deng doctrine: How China weaponises rare earths to gain leverage in trade war with the US If Trump indeed agrees to proposals, that would mark a shift in the US policy on Myanmar. Following the coup in 2021 in which Myanmars military overthrew the civilian government of the country, the United States has not maintained any contact with the junta. However, in a sign of change, Trump has addressed Myanmars military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, as the head of state and has withdrawn sanctions on the regime. What proposals are on the table? The main idea behind the proposal is to divert Myanmars rare earth reserves away from China into the American fold, according to Reuters. The news agency has reported that one proposal has called for talks with Myanmars junta to get a peace deal with the rebel group Kachin Independence Army (KIA). Another proposal has called for a direct US-KIA deal to access rare earths in areas under KIAs control. In Myanmar, large swathes of the country are under rebel control that produce large quantities of rare earths. China currently buys most of these rare earths. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD To sweeten the deal, it has been proposed that Trump should reduce the tariff rate of 40 per cent that he has imposed on Myanmar. It has also been suggested that Trump should appoint a special envoy to take up the matter of rare earths in Myanmar and oversee deals in the country. These suggestions have come from Adam Castillo, a former head of the American Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar who runs a security firm in the country, in a meeting held at the offices of Vice President JD Vance, according to Reuters. Castillo told Reuters that he suggested to US officials that the United States could play the role of a peacemaker in Myanmar and urged the Trump administration to take a page out of Chinas playbook by first brokering a bilateral self-governance deal between the Myanmar military and the KIA. Castillo described Myanmars rare earth reserves as Chinas golden goose and said that he told US officials that rebels, particularly the KIA, were tired of being exploited by China and wanted to work with the United States. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Castillo said that he had repeatedly urged US officials to pursue a deal with the KIA that includes cooperation with Quad partners, specifically India, for resource processing and eventual heavy rare earths supply to the United States. Two people were killed and two others injured in a stabbing at a central London business on Monday, police said. The suspect, who is among the injured, is in critical condition, and the attack is not believed to be terror-related. A stabbing at a business in central London on Monday left two people dead and two others injured, including the suspect, who is in critical condition, police said. According to the Metropolitan Police, a 58-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene in the Southwark area, while a 27-year-old man later died in hospital from his injuries. The attack was not believed to be terror related, said Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Bond. A man in his 30s was arrested in connection with the incident but remains in a life-threatening condition, police said. Another man was taken to hospital and is expected to survive. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Authorities have not disclosed the name of the business or a motive behind the attack. Identities of the victims and the suspect have not been released. Amid rising condemnation of the Israeli war in Gaza across the world, the Netherlands has sanctioned far-right ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, who are allies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Israeli right-wing Knesset member Itamar Ben-Gvir (L) and Bezalel Smotrich (R) during the swearing-in ceremony for the new Israeli parliament the 25th Knesset in Jerusalem, 15 November 2022. File Photo/Reuters The Netherlands has sanctioned two extremist allies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the war in the Gaza Strip. The Netherlands has declared far-right Israeli ministers, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, as persona non grata. They repeatedly incited settler violence against Palestinians, promoted illegal settlement expansion, and called for ethnic cleansing in Gaza, Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp told parliament in a letter on Monday. The development has come at a time when condemnation of the Israeli war in Gaza is rising by the day, particularly over the hunger crisis in the Palestinian enclave. Far-right leaders in Israel have frequently called for stopping the flow of aid into Gaza, taking the strip completely, and expelling all Palestinians. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Smotrich and Ben-Gvir dubbed the Dutch action as an act of antisemitism. While Smotrich said that European leaders had surrendered to the lies of radical Islam that is taking over and the rising antisemitism, Ben-Gvir said that in a place where terrorism is tolerated and terrorists are welcomed, a Jewish minister from Israel is unwanted, terrorists are free, and Jews are boycotted. Rising backlash against Israeli extremists Earlier in June, the Netherlands supported a Swedish proposal to impose sanctions on the far-right Israeli ministers under the umbrella of European Union (EU). The proposal could not get unanimous support within EU Foreign Affairs Council. Last month, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway imposed financial sanction on Smotrich and Ben-Gvir. Later in the day, the EU leaders will meet to consider a united response against these extremist leaders. Under plans previously reported by the Associated Press, the Dutch government was supposed to summon the Israeli ambassador on Tuesday to urge Netanyahu to change course and immediately take measures that lead to a substantial and rapid improvement in the humanitarian situation throughout the Gaza Strip. Sources from Indias Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have dismissed claims that the death sentence of Nimisha Priya has been reversed. Only blood money can save Nimisha Priya, the Kerala nurse on death row in Yemen. Image courtesy: Save Nimisha Priya Action council/CNN Sources in Indias Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have refuted reports that claimed the death sentence of Nimisha Priya, the Indian nurse facing murder charges in Yemen, has been overturned. The sources on Tuesday (July 29) called these reports inaccurate. The 37-year-old nurse from Kerala was initially scheduled to be executed on July 16 for killing her business partner in Yemen, but it was postponed. Earlier on Monday, the office of the Grand Mufti of India", Kanthapuram AP Abubakar Musliyar, released a statement that Nimishas death sentence had been overturned by Yemeni authorities. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The statement said that the decision was taken during a high-level conference in capital Sanaa when top Yemeni academics, nominated by Sheikh Umar Hafeel Thangal at the request of the Indian Grand Mufti, met with Northern Yemeni authorities and international diplomats. Nimisha Priya came to Yemen in 2008 to seek greater employment opportunities. Like many Indian nurses working overseas, her decision was motivated by financial concerns back home. She started working in a private hospital in Yemens capital, Sanaa. In 2015, she formed a business partnership with a Yemeni national named Mahdi to co-manage a medical facility. Since Yemeni laws prohibit foreign nationals from independently owning medical institutions, Mahdis involvement was essential for legal compliance. However, Priya later claimed that the partnership had become abusive. According to her and her supporters, Mahdi kept her passport, misused clinic funds, physically attacked her, and restricted her freedom. Priya gave Mahdi sedatives in July 2017 in an attempt to reclaim her passport, and he later died. She and a coworker, in a state of panic, dissected the body and disposed of the parts in a water tank to try to hide the incident. She was apprehended at a border crossing in August 2017. In 2018, a Yemeni criminal court condemned her to death, claiming that she provided medications without authorisation, caused Mahdis death, and sought to conceal the crime. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD An off-duty NYPD officer, Didarul Islam, was among five people killed in a shooting at a Manhattan office building on Monday evening. Islam, a Bangladeshi immigrant and four-year police veteran, was hailed as a hero for trying to protect others during the attack. An off-duty NYPD officer, identified as 36-year-old Didarul Islam, was among five people killed in a mass shooting at a midtown Manhattan office building on Monday evening. Islam, an immigrant from Bangladesh and a four-year veteran of the police force, is being hailed as a hero. New York City Mayor Eric Adams remembered Officer Islam as a devoted public servant and family man. We lost four souls to another senseless act of gun violence, including a member of the New York City Police Department, Officer Islam, he said at a press conference. He was saving lives, he was protecting New Yorkers He loved this city, and everyone we spoke with stated he was a person of faith and a person who believed in God. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Islam is survived by his wife, eight months pregnant, and two sons. Mayor Adams said he met with the grieving family and told them, He was a hero, and we admire him for putting his life on the line. Police Officer Didarul Islam represented the very best of our department. He was protecting New Yorkers from danger when his life was tragically cut short today. We join in prayer during this time of incomprehensible pain. We will forever honor his legacy.#FidelisAdMortem pic.twitter.com/vkBZetsz2N NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) July 29, 2025 The NYPD also paid tribute, stating, He was protecting New Yorkers from danger when his life was tragically cut short today. The shooting unfolded around 6:30 pm inside a Park Avenue office complex that houses several financial firms and the NFL. The Fire Department of New York said emergency crews responded swiftly to reports of gunfire. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD RIGHT NOW: Heavy police presence on East 51st and Park Ave. Just seen one man taken on a stretcher into the ambulance. #NYC #NewYorkCity #Midtown #Manhattan pic.twitter.com/oqZxLswdqG Shaquille Omari (@shaq_omari) July 28, 2025 The suspect, identified as Shane Tamura of Nevada, was later found dead from what authorities believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Law enforcement sources told CNN that five people in totalincluding the gunmandied in the incident. Pakistans Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has flown to Washington for the second time in two weeks to finalise a possible trade deal with the US. His visit comes days after Islamabad said the agreement was very close." Pakistans Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has departed for Washington on his second US visit in two weeks to finalise a potential trade agreement, his office confirmed late Monday. The visit follows Foreign Minister Ishaq Dars recent remarks claiming that a deal was very close and could be sealed within days. However, the US side, following Dars meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, gave no specific timeline. A final discussion on the Pakistan-US trade dialogue will take place during the visit, said Pakistans Finance Ministry, adding that both sides stand to benefit from the agreement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD During his earlier trip on July 18, Aurangzeb held productive trade talks with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer. The ongoing negotiations center on easing reciprocal tariffs and strengthening economic cooperation amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. Pakistan currently faces a 29 percent Trump-era tariff on its exports, part of the former presidents trade policy aimed at surplus nations. Islamabads trade surplus with the US was around $3 billion in 2024. To ease tensions and rebalance trade, Pakistan has offered to import more US goods, including crude oil, and to open up its mining sector to American firms. The finance ministry said Islamabad is also looking to diversify trade beyond traditional areas, with growth potential in sectors like IT, minerals, and agriculture. Ties between the two nations recently received a boost after President Donald Trump hosted Pakistans army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, at the White House, an unusual high-level military meeting that underscored the influence of Pakistans powerful military establishment, often seen as the countrys de-facto decision-maker. Given Pakistans worsening economic crisis, a trade deal with the US has become increasingly urgent. However, with Islamabads limited bargaining power, sealing a strong agreement appears unlikely. As US-funded broadcasts are slashed, millions of North Koreans are left more isolated than ever cut off from the outside world and solely at the mercy of the regimes propaganda In the worlds hermit kingdom, the rulers appear anything but hermits the face allegations of relentlessly hounding their hapless citizens in a, what many describe as, barbaric fashion, crushing human rights as a hippopotamus crushes a watermelon: with brute force and no second thought. While the rest of the world thrives fighting for greater and unrestricted access to information, those in North Korea are understood to live under an apartheid of the mind, cut off from realities of the world, deliberately by a regime that distorts or blocks information to suit its grip on power. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD For many in North Korea, the Voice of America and Radio Free Asia stood as rare lifelines vital sources of uncensored news for the bold few willing to risk everything to tune in. But thats now a thing of the past. In a Maga move, US President Donald Trump who once claimed he developed a very good relationship with the North Korean leader Kim Jong-un pulled the plug from these radio services. A switch in DC, silence in Pyongyang When the US Senate passed a funding cut earlier this month, it effectively ended decades of American support for independent media channels that had managed to pierce North Koreas ironclad information barrier. The decision prompted widespread alarm as it became obvious that this move could plunge North Koreas 26 million citizens into even deeper informational darkness, a report in South China Morning Post said. Broadcasts from the Voice of America and Radio Free Asia two long-standing American-backed radio channels had served as vital channels, providing North Koreans with unfiltered insights into global affairs, human rights and life beyond their tightly controlled borders. The radio programmes reportedly saw their broadcasts reduced by as much as 80 per cent after an executive order issued by Trump in March called for the dismantling of their parent agency, the United States Agency for Global Media, the Hing Kong-based newspaper reported. Silence after the signal North Korea experts, including Human Rights Watchs Teppei Kasai, expressed concern that this informational blackout would hinder international awareness of North Koreas worsening human rights situation. According to Martyn Williams, a senior fellow at the Stimson Centre, the timing could not have been better for Pyongyangs censors. In his analysis for 38 North, he observed that North Korean propagandists had been battling the flow of foreign broadcasts for decades. Suddenly, with no effort on their part, the playing field had tilted decisively in their favour, the South China Morning Post reported. From unity to discord The blow to North Korea-focussed media and human rights efforts didnt occur in a vacuum. For nearly two decades, the North Korean Human Rights Act had anchored Americas engagement with the country on a bipartisan basis. Passed in 2004 and renewed in subsequent years, the legislation ensured funding for radio broadcasts, satellite analysis and human rights documentation. These efforts informed everything from US sanctions policy to United Nations reports on crimes against humanity. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, that act quietly expired in 2022. Though funding had temporarily continued through the State Departments Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labour (DRL), recent cuts proposed by the Trump administration aim to all but eliminate DRLs global funding. Human rights advocates have warned that this move will not only gut existing projects but destroy the infrastructure and institutional expertise necessary to rebuild them later, senior Asia researcher at Human Rights Watch Lina Yoon wrote in Foreign Policy in Focus. Real-world consequences The stakes go far beyond theoretical policy losses. Civil society organisations once supported by the act are now struggling to survive. Groups like the Citizens Alliance for North Korean Human Rights, which had previously traced illicit financial networks tied to North Koreas cyber theft operations, are at risk of shuttering. The DailyNK, a Seoul-based newsroom that reports using sources inside North Korea, may soon fall silent. Similarly, the Transitional Justice Working Group, known for its geocoding of execution and burial sites using scapee testimony and satellite imagery, may no longer be able to continue its work, Lina wrote. She feared that cutting off these data sources would severely compromise the US governments ability to make informed policy decisions. A regional reversal Compounding the problem, the recently elected South Korean administration under President Lee Jae-myung has reportedly taken a softer stance toward Pyongyang. In addition to ending government-led broadcasts into the North, Seoul has banned activists from launching balloons containing leaflets, rice, medicine and cash across the demilitarised zone. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Human rights observers noted that while this strategy may aim for diplomatic rapprochement, it simultaneously weakens the already scarce flow of outside information into North Korea. Williams from the Stimson Centre told South China Morning Post that the reduced broadcasts would leave North Koreans even more cut off from both local and global events. In a deteriorating security climate, such isolation could come at a high price, not only for North Koreans but for neighbouring countries and allies relying on accurate, timely intelligence. Why the world should pay attention The broader message from policy analysts and human rights organisations is clear: supporting independent media in North Korea is not charity its strategy, said Lina. And yet, the Trump administrations broad-stroke cuts threaten to erase years of painstaking progress. Organisations holding DRL grants, including the Unification Media Group and the Database Center for North Korean Human Rights, may soon have no funds left to continue. Radio Free Asia has already ceased its Korean-language broadcasts, a move that could embolden Pyongyangs censors and silence dissident voices before they ever reach the airwaves. A future in the dark? Unless the US Congress takes urgent action to renew the North Korean Human Rights Act and protect funding for programmes that monitor and expose the regimes abuses, the world could lose its last windows into the country. As one expert put it, North Korea thrives in the dark. And with Washington now dimming the light, the shadows are growing longer. At least 17 inmates were killed and more than 80 injured after a Russian aerial strike hit a prison facility in Ukraines Zaporizhzhia region, according to Ukrainian officials. A view of the penal colony hit by a Russian air strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine. Reuters A Russian attack on a prison in southeastern Ukraine has killed at least 17 inmates and injured over 80 more. Four guided aerial bombs struck the Bilenkivska Correctional Colony in Ukraines Zaporizhzhia area, according to the State Criminal Executive Service of Ukraine. The Russians could not have been unaware that they were targeting civilians in that facility, he wrote on X. And this was done after a completely clear position was voiced by the United States. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Separately, a missile strike on a hospital in the adjacent Dnipropetrovsk area killed a 23-year-old pregnant lady and two others, Zelenskyy said. He reported 22 individuals had been slain in the last 24 hours. Russia, which denied targeting civilians in Tuesdays bombings, has increased airstrikes on Ukrainian villages and cities behind the front lines of its full-fledged invasion, now in its fourth year, as it progressively advances on the battlefield. Russian military control almost a quarter of Ukrainian land. Trump, expressing his dissatisfaction with Putin, stated on Monday that he would allow Russia 10 or 12 days to make headway towards ending the war. The Kremlin said on Tuesday that it had taken note of Trumps statement. The special military operation continues, said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, employing the term that Moscow uses for its war effort in Ukraine. Screaming, moaning Following Tuesdays attack on the prison, across the Dnipro River from Russian-occupied territory, injured inmates waded through rubble and broken glass. Bandaged and bloody, they sat stunned as guards yelled out a roll call. Ukraines justice ministry said the prisons dining hall had been destroyed and other parts of the facility damaged in a strike that involved four high-explosive bombs and also wounded 42 people. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It had originally said 17 people were killed but later revised its tally. People were screaming, moaning, said prisoner Yaroslav Samarskiy, 54, recalling the aftermath of the strike. Some dead, some alive, some without legs - half of them burned. Separately, five people were killed on Tuesday morning in the northeastern Kharkiv region after a Russian strike on a humanitarian aid point in a front-line village, a senior police official said. A shooting inside a Midtown Manhattan office building on Monday evening left at least five people dead, including an NYPD officer and the suspected gunman. The building houses major financial firms and the NFL, and authorities say the situation is now under control. At least five people were killed, including a New York City police officer and the suspected gunman, in a shooting incident Monday evening inside a Midtown Manhattan office building that houses major financial firms and the NFL, according to officials. Four people, including a New York Police Department officer, were killed in todays shooting in Midtown Manhattan, a law enforcement source told broadcaster CNN, empgasising that the suspected gunman died from what is believed to be a self-inflicted injury. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Earlier, news agency AP reported, citing multiple law enforcement sources, that the gunman behind the attack was believed to be dead. Later, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said on X that the scene is contained and the lone shooter has been neutralized. The New York Fire Department said emergency crews were dispatched to the Park Avenue building around 6:30 pm following a report of a shooting. Police have not provided additional details so far. RIGHT NOW: Heavy police presence on East 51st and Park Ave. Just seen one man taken on a stretcher into the ambulance. #NYC #NewYorkCity #Midtown #Manhattan pic.twitter.com/oqZxLswdqG Shaquille Omari (@shaq_omari) July 28, 2025 According to a source, a man carrying a long rifle was seen entering the building prior to the shooting. One civilian is in critical condition, while another civilian and an NYPD officerwho was shot in the backare expected to survive, a law enforcement official told CNN. The NYPD bomb squad is currently at the scene. The injured officer is assigned to a Bronx precinct and was stationed near the building when the incident occurred, the official added. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Local television footage showed people evacuating the building with their hands raised. The high-profile offices in the building include Blackstone, Deutsche Bank, JPMorgan, and the Consulate General of Ireland. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said on social media that agents were assisting at what he described as an active crime scene. Mayor Eric Adams also posted online, stating that an active shooter investigation was underway and urged people in the area to remain indoors and take safety precautions. The citys emergency alert system warned of traffic delays, road closures, and disruptions to public transportation in the surrounding area. As the shortened deadline approaches, the world watches to see whether Trumps high-stakes gamble will force a breakthrough in the Ukraine conflict or lead to unintended consequences on the global stage. US President Donald Trump sips Diet Coke from his wine glass after a toast, during a luncheon for world leaders at the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, US, September 25, 2018. File Image/Reuters In a bold move, US President Donald Trump has drastically shortened the timeline he initially set for Russian President Vladimir Putin to secure a ceasefire with Ukraine. Originally giving Russia 50 days, Trump now insists on a resolution in just 10 or 12 days, signalling an aggressive push to alter the course of the ongoing war. The timing is critical. Ukraine is grappling with its toughest moment on the battlefield since the conflict began. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD By September 3, the original deadline, Russia is poised to solidify significant territorial gains. Over the past two weeks, Moscows forces have made rapid and strategic advances, positioning them to potentially encircle key eastern Ukrainian cities like Pokrovsk, Kostiantynivka, and Kupiansk in the north. Such a development could shift the front lines dramatically, bringing Putin closer to his goal of seizing the Donetsk region. The next 10 or 12 days will be pivotal. If Trumps ultimatum proves to be another hollow threat or if the deadline shifts again, it could fuel perceptions of weakness within his administration. Critics have already pointed to a pattern they dub TACO (Trump Always Chickens Out), suggesting Trump may hesitate to follow through on tough measures. Trumps secondary tariff gamble Last week, Trump floated the idea of imposing tariffs as high as 100 per cent on Russias trading partners if Putin fails to halt hostilities within six weeks. However, this threat is fraught with complications. Russias closest trading partners, China and India, are deeply intertwined with the US in delicate trade and tariff negotiations. Imposing secondary sanctions or tariffs on these nations could have far-reaching consequences for the global economy. Tariffing China, India to carry serious implications India, a close US partner, relies heavily on Russian energy. Complex mechanisms allow it to purchase this energy without destabilising global oil markets, which could otherwise drive up prices and harm the US economy. China, a Russian ally, is even more dependent on Moscows energy supplies and maintains a complicated, often tense economic relationship with the United States. Sanctions on either country could disrupt global energy markets and strain US relations with two critical trading partners. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD If Trump follows through with these sanctions, his actions would mark a significant escalation compared to the policies of his predecessor, President Joe Biden. Yet, the risk of miscalculation looms large. Punishing Russias trading partners could derail ongoing negotiations with China and India, potentially backfiring on US interests and destabilising the global economy. As the shortened deadline approaches, the world watches to see whether Trumps high-stakes gamble will force a breakthrough in the Ukraine conflict or lead to unintended consequences on the global stage. The Trump administration has abruptly terminated over half of all federal funding for gun violence prevention, cutting $158 million in grants to community programs across major US cities. A bus belonging to the Think Outside Da Block gun violence prevention program sits parked outside of the organizations office, in Chicago, Illinois, US. Reuters The Trump administration has cancelled more than half of all federal funding for gun violence prevention programs in the United States, including $158 million in grants to nonprofits in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington, DC, and Baltimore. According to official data analysed by Reuters, 69 of the 145 community violence intervention (CVI) contracts totalling more than $300 million given by the US Department of Justice were abruptly discontinued in April. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The elimination of CVI programs is part of a broader rollback at the departments grant-issuing Office of Justice Programs, which terminated 365 grants valued at $811 million in April, impacting a range of public safety and victim services programs. A DOJ official told Reuters the gun violence grants were eliminated because they no longer effectuate the programs goals or agencys priorities. Thousands of Office of Justice Programs grants are under review, the official said, and are being evaluated, among other things, on how well they support law enforcement and combat violent crime. The majority of CVI grants were originally funded through the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and part of a push by former President Joe Biden to stem the rise of gun violence in America, including establishing the first White House Office for Gun Violence Prevention. That office was dismantled on day one of Trump taking office, said former deputy director of the office, Greg Jackson. Prior to the Biden-era funding, most gun violence prevention programs were funded on the state level. These programs five years ago, if they did exist, had very small budgets and didnt have large, multimillion-dollar federal investments, said Michael-Sean Spence, managing director of community safety initiatives at Everytown for Gun Safety, which has worked with 136 community-based violence intervention organizations since 2019. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Twenty-five of the groups were impacted by funding cuts. The grants supported a wide range of CVI programming to prevent shootings such as training outreach teams to de-escalate and mediate conflict, social workers to connect people to services and employment, and hospital-based programs for gun violence victims. [Its] preventing them from doing the work in service of those that need it the most at the most urgent, and deadliest time of the year, Spence said, referring to summer months when theres typically an uptick in shootings. Gun violence deaths in the US grew more than 50% from 2015 to the pandemic-era peak of 21,383 in 2021, according to the Gun Violence Archive., opens new tab Since then, deadly shootings have been in decline, falling to 16,725 in 2024, which is more in line with the pre-pandemic trend. As of May 2025, deaths are down 866 from the same period last year. Defunded programs While cities like New York City, Chicago and Los Angeles received the bulk of gun violence prevention funding, southern cities like Memphis, Selma, Alabama and Baton Rouge, Louisiana also received millions and were more reliant on the grants due to limited state support for the programs, experts told Reuters. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Very few state legislatures are passing funding right now, thats why the federal cuts were such a tragic hit, said Amber Goodwin, co-founder of Community Violence Legal Network, whos part of a coalition of lawyers working to get grants reinstated. Nearly a dozen interviews with legal experts, gun violence interventionists, and former DOJ officials said funding cuts threaten the long-term sustainability of community violence intervention initiatives that have taken years to establish and are embedded in predominantly Black and Latino communities. PhaTal Perkins founded Think Outside Da Block in 2016, a nonprofit based in Chicagos violence-plagued Englewood neighborhood. Federal funding allowed him to hire full-time staff, but when grants were stripped, he was forced to lay off five team members. Being able to have outreach teams at specific places at the right time to have conversations before things get out of hand is what people dont see, Perkins said. The programs initiated in 2022 marked the first time grassroots organizations could apply for federal community violence prevention funding directly, without going through law enforcement or state intermediaries, according to three former DOJ officials. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Aqeela Sherrills, co-founder of Community Based Public Safety Collective in Los Angeles, provided training on implementing violence intervention strategies to nearly 94 grantees, including states, law enforcement agencies, and community-based organizations. Prior to the cuts, we were onboarding 30 new grantees through the federal government. Many of these cities and law enforcement agencies have no idea how to implement CVI, Sherrills said. Police support Some critics of CVI argue that the programs arent effective and that federal dollars would be better spent on law enforcement to stymie gun violence. Others view the initiatives as inherently anti-gun and are nothing more than a funnel to send federal tax dollars to anti-gun non-profits who advocate against our rights, said Aidan Johnston, federal affairs director of the Gun Owners of America. That view is not universally shared by law enforcement, however. In June, a letter signed by 18 law enforcement groups and police chiefs in Louisville, Minneapolis, Tucson and Omaha called on Attorney General Pam Bondi to reinstate funding that has resulted in measurable and significant reductions in violence and homicides. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD These arent feel-good programs; theyre lifesaving, law-enforcement-enhancing strategies that work, they wrote. Columbia, South Carolina Deputy Police Chief Melron Kelly, who was unaware of the letter, told Reuters that CVI programs were relatively new in the city, but as a result, the police began collaborating more with community organizations. Kelly said Columbias CVI programs focused on preventing retaliatory shootings that can escalate a neighborhood conflict. Public safety really starts in the neighborhood before police get involved. CVI work is very important; weve seen a drastic reduction in violent crime post-COVID and shootings are almost at a 10-year low, Kelly said. Now, organizations are trying to figure out how to keep the doors open now that federal money has run dry. Durell Cowan, executive director of HEAL 901, a community violence prevention nonprofit in Memphis, received a $1.7 million CVI grant in October 2024. Cowans organization received $150,000 in federal funds since the beginning of the year before his grant was canceled. Hes had to dip into his personal savings to keep his 14-person staff on payroll, he said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Recently, he secured funding from an out-of-state nonprofit as well as a $125,000 emergency grant from the city. Still, he may be forced to conduct layoffs if federal government dollars dont start flowing again. We shouldnt be pulling from our own personal finances and life insurance policies to cover the cost of public safety, he said. President Donald Trump said India could face a tariff rate of 20% to 25%, but cautioned that the final decision has not yet been made as both countries continue negotiating a trade deal ahead of the August 1 deadline, according to a report President Donald Trump said India could face a tariff rate of 20% to 25%, but cautioned that the final decision has not yet been made as both countries continue negotiating a trade deal ahead of the August 1 deadline. I think so, Bloomberg quoted Trump as telling reporters on Tuesday when asked if that was a possible tariff rate for New Delhi. India has been a good friend, but India has charged basically more tariffs than almost any other country, Trump said aboard Air Force One as he returned to Washington from a five-day visit to Scotland. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD You just cant do that, he added. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told CNBC on Monday that an elusive India trade agreement would require more discussion between the two countries. They have expressed strong interest in opening portions of their market, we of course are willing to continue talking to them, CNN quoted Greer as saying. But I think we need some more negotiations on that with our Indian friends to see how ambitious they want to be, Greer added. President Trump has continued to push US trade partners to open previously restricted markets to American goods, and India is no exception. While neither Washington nor New Delhi has outlined specific points of contention, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal last week expressed optimism about concluding a deal with the US before Trumps self-imposed August 1 deadline. Although India has not yet received a formal tariff warning letter a tactic Trump has used with over a dozen other countries the president set tariffs on Indian goods at 26% on April 2, before putting the reciprocal levies on hold during negotiations. Trump has frequently criticised India over its trade practices. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD They charge more tariffs than any other country, he had said on February 13, just hours before meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He has also described the US-India trade relationship as very tough, citing a growing trade deficit that has nearly doubled over the past decade. The White Houses concerns extend beyond tariffs. According to CNN, Trump administration officials have repeatedly flagged non-tariff trade barriers in India, including taxes on digital services and what they describe as uniquely burdensome import regulations and testing requirements. The United States imported $87 billion in goods from India in 2024, while India imported $42 billion worth of goods from the US, added the report, citing US Commerce Department data. Major US imports from India include pharmaceuticals, communications equipment such as smartphones, and apparel. As the August deadline looms, negotiations remain active but final decisions on tariffs or trade terms, as with other partners, rest with President Trump. With inputs from agencies STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer informed his ministers that recognition of Palestinian statehood would proceed in September if the Israeli government fails to act on the key conditions set by London, according to a report British Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaks during a welcome reception at the Britain's ambassador's residence in Washington, DC on Wednesday. AP File Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday announced that the United Kingdom will formally recognise the State of Palestine in September unless Israel takes a series of substantive steps in Gaza, including agreeing to a ceasefire. The potentially historic decision, which Starmer described as part of a broader plan for lasting peace, follows his recall of the UK Cabinet from recess for emergency discussions on the escalating crisis in the besieged enclave. According to an AFP report, citing Downing Street, Starmer informed his ministers that recognition of Palestinian statehood would proceed in September if the Israeli government fails to act on the key conditions set by London. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD They include ending the appalling situation in Gaza, reaching a ceasefire, making clear there will be no annexation in the West Bank, and committing to a long-term peace process that delivers a two-state solution, it added. I have always said that we will recognise a Palestinian state as a contribution to a proper peace process at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution, AFP quoted Starmer as saying in a Downing Street address. With that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act. UK, France may lead G7 on Palestine French President Emmanuel Macron announced last week that France would formally recognise a Palestinian state during the UN General Assembly in September. Echoing that stance, Starmer said Britain would follow suit unless Israel takes substantive steps to end the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. If carried out, the UK and France would become the first G7 nations to formally endorse Palestinian statehood a move that has already drawn sharp criticism from both Israel and the United States. However, reports suggested Starmer is believed to have presented his plan for the long-running conflict in the Middle East to US President Donald Trump when the pair met in Scotland on Monday. Trump appeared to give his blessing for the recognition move, saying during a wide-ranging press conference lasting more than an hour that I dont mind him (Starmer) taking a position. Trump on Tuesday, however, dismissed the reports and said that he and Starmer did not discuss Londons plan to recognise a Palestinian state. We never did discuss it, Reuters quoted Trump as telling reporters on board Air Force One while travelling back to the US after meeting Starmer in Scotland. Trump said recognising a Palestinian state would reward Palestinian militant group Hamas. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Youre rewarding Hamas if you do that. I dont think they should be rewarded, he said. Trump said the US had sent money for food aid for Palestinians in Gaza, and that he wanted to make sure its properly spent. I want to make sure the money is spent wisely and is spent judiciously, and that food is distributed in a proper manner, he said. Speaking Tuesday, Starmer also detailed several demands for the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is holding Israeli hostages seized in its attacks on October 7, 2023. They must immediately release all of the hostages, sign up to a ceasefire, disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza, he said. The UK leader added that London will make an assessment in September on how far the parties have met these steps, adding: No one should have a veto over our decision. Two-state solution Starmer has been under growing domestic and international pressure to formally recognise a Palestinian state, as the humanitarian situation in Gaza dramatically worsens. Macron publicly pressed for joint recognition of Palestine during his UK state visit earlier this month, while an increasing number of MPs in Starmers ruling Labour party have been demanding action. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD More than 220 British lawmakers from nine parties including Starmers Labour published a letter last Friday urging him to formally recognise a Palestinian state. The commitment was included in Labours election-winning manifesto last year, as part of a two-state solution with a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. Starmers office also said that the UK had dropped its first aid by air into the Gaza Strip, as UN aid agencies warned that the Palestinian territory of more than two million people was slipping into famine. It said the first airdrops of British aid were landing Tuesday, containing around half a million pounds worth of lifesaving supplies. The Palestinian people have endured terrible suffering now in Gaza because of a catastrophic failure of aid. We see starving babies, children too weak to stand, the UK leader said in a televised address. The suffering must end, he added. With inputs from agencies Top US and Chinese officials met in Stockholm for five hours of talks at the Swedish Prime Ministers office, aiming to extend their trade truce. President Donald Trump, speaking from Scotland, said he wants China to open up their country. US President Donald Trump meets with China's President Xi Jinping at the start of their bilateral meeting at the G20 leaders summit in Osaka, Japan, June 29, 2019. File Photo/Reuters Top US and Chinese officials met in Stockholm on Monday for over five hours of talks aimed at easing trade tensions and extending their current trade truce by another 90 days. Held at the Swedish prime ministers office, the negotiations marked the latest effort to resolve long-standing economic disputes between the worlds two largest economies. US Treasury Chief Scott Bessent led the American delegation, while Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng represented Beijing. China faces an August 12 deadline to finalise a lasting tariff deal with the Trump administration, following provisional agreements in May and June that paused tit-for-tat tariffs and export restrictions, including on rare earth minerals. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The talks are expected to resume on Tuesday(July 29). Id love to see China open up: Trump Speaking at a press conference in Scotland alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, President Donald Trump briefly addressed the discussions. Id love to see China open up their country, he said. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, who also took part in the Stockholm meeting, tempered expectations of any major breakthrough. What I expect is continued monitoring and checking in on the implementation of our agreement thus far and setting the groundwork for enhanced trade and balanced trade going forward, he told CNBC. Without a deal, global supply chains risk fresh disruption, as triple-digit US tariffs could snap back into effect, effectively creating a bilateral trade embargo. The Stockholm round follows Trumps recent trade agreement with the European Union, imposing a 15% tariff on most EU exports to the US. Analysts believe Washington and Beijing are likely to agree to another 90-day freeze on tariffs and tech export restrictions, potentially paving the way for a meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year. According to the Financial Times, the US has temporarily paused certain tech export controls to preserve momentum in talks and support Trumps push for a summit. Taiwan President to delay US trip in August Meanwhile, Taiwan remains a sensitive issue hovering over the negotiations. Sources told Reuters that Taiwan President Lai Ching-te is expected to delay a planned August trip to the US, aiming to avoid provoking Beijing and jeopardising trade discussions. China views Taiwan as part of its territory and strongly opposes any expression of US support for Taipei. US lawmakers plans to strain on ongoing trade talks Back in Washington, bipartisan US senators are preparing to introduce legislation targeting China over its policies on Taiwan, human rights, and political dissent, moves that could further complicate the negotiating atmosphere. Earlier US-China talks in Geneva and London this year focused on scaling down retaliatory tariffs and restoring trade in key sectors such as rare earths and advanced technology, including Nvidias H20 AI chips. However, core economic disagreements remain unresolved. Washington accuses Beijing of distorting global markets with cheap exports, while China opposes U.S. export controls aimed at curbing its tech development. Analysts warn that talks with China are far more complex than with other Asian nations, and will require significantly more time. Beijings dominance in rare earth minerals and magnetscrucial for everything from military systems to electric motorscontinues to give it strategic leverage in the negotiations. Kim Yo-Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean ruler Kim Jong-Un, has said that the United States must accept the new reality that her nation will never give up nuclear weapons no matter how many rounds of talks are held about them. North Korea said on Tuesday the United States must accept that reality has changed since the countries summit meetings in the past, and no future dialogue would end its nuclear programme, state media KCNA reported. Kim Yo-Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un who is believed to speak for his brother, said she conceded that the personal relationship between Kim and US President Donald Trump is not bad. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD But if Washington intended to use a personal relationship as a way to end the Norths nuclear weapons programme, the effort would only be the subject of mockery, Kim Yo Jong said in a statement carried by KCNA. If the US fails to accept the changed reality and persists in the failed past, the DPRK-US meeting will remain as a hope of the US side, she said. DPRK is short for North Koreas official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. North Koreas capabilities as a nuclear weapons state and the geopolitical environment have radically changed since Kim and Trump held talks three times during the US presidents first term, she said. Any attempt to deny the position of the DPRK as a nuclear weapons state will be thoroughly rejected, she said. Asked about the North Korean statement, a White House official said Trump was still committed to the goal he had for the three summit meetings he held with Kim in his first term. The President retains those objectives and remains open to engaging with Leader Kim to achieve a fully denuclearised North Korea, the White House official told Reuters. At their first meeting in Singapore in 2018, Trump and Kim signed an agreement in principle to make the Korean peninsula free of nuclear weapons. The subsequent summit in Hanoi next year broke down due to a disagreement over removing international sanctions that had been imposed against Pyongyang. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trump has said he has a great relationship with Kim, and the White House has said the president is receptive to the idea of communicating with the reclusive North Korean leader. (This is an agency copy. Except for the headline, the copy has not been edited by Firstpost staff.) The data underscores a deepening political divide, with Democrats and independents driving the decline in support, while Republicans continue to stand firmly behind Israels military efforts and Netanyahus leadership. According to a recent Gallup poll, just over one-third of US adults now support Israels military action in Gaza, a significant decrease from the start of the war with Hamas, when roughly half of Americans supported Israels operation. Additionally, according to the latest survey, Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, is now seen negatively by around half of US citizens, the lowest percentage since he was initially included in Gallup polls in 1997. The survey was carried out between July 7 and July 21, just before President Donald Trump voiced worry over the deteriorating humanitarian situation and before reports of famine in Gaza prompted worldwide condemnation of Israels decision to limit food deliveries. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The findings highlight the Israeli governments significant loss of support in the United States. However, not everyone is changing; rather, the conflict has widened the political divide. The increased dissatisfaction is being led by Democrats and independents, who are considerably less inclined to support Israels conduct than they were in November 2023, shortly after Israel expanded its ground attack in Gaza. In contrast, Republicans continue to back Netanyahu and Israels military efforts. The majority of Americans now oppose Israels military campaign in Gaza. According to a recent survey, roughly 60% of American adults now oppose Israels military action in Gaza, up from 45% in November 2023. Support for the war has been dwindling in Gallups polling for some time. In March 2024, about half of US adults disapproved of Israels military action in Gaza, which fell slightly as the year wore on. In a new low, only 8% of Democrats and one-quarter of independents say they now approve of Israels military campaign. Some of that decline may be attributed to the change in administration. While former President Joe Biden faced significant pushback from fellow Democrats on his handling of the conflict between the Israelis and the Palestinians, they may be even more frustrated by the approach of Trump, a Republican. Young adults are also much more likely to disapprove of Israels actions. Only about 1 in 10 adults under age 35 say they approve of Israels military choices in Gaza, compared with about half of those who are 55 or older. Gallup senior editor Megan Brenan says the latest figures reflect the enduring partisan divide. Even as Democrats grow increasingly unhappy with Israels military campaign, Republicans remain supportive. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Weve seen this drop in approval since last fall, and its really driven by Democrats and independents, Brenan says. Republicans are still willing to be in this for the time being. Netanyahus favorability among US adults is historically low Views of Netanyahu have also grown less favorable over the past few years, with more viewing him negatively than positively in measurements taken since the war in Gaza began. About half of US adults, 52%, now have an unfavorable view of Netanyahu in the new poll, which overlapped with Netanyahus recent visit to the US Just 29% view him positively, and about 2 in 10 either havent heard of him or dont have an opinion. Thats a change although not a huge one since December 2023, when 47% of US adults had an unfavorable view of Netanyahu and 33% had a favorable opinion. But its a reversal from as recently as April 2019, when more US adults viewed him positively than negatively. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Republicans have a much more positive view of Netanyahu than Democrats and independents do. About two-thirds of Republicans view him favorably, which is in line with last year. About 1 in 10 Democrats and 2 in 10 independents feel the same way. This is the first time weve seen a majority of Americans, with an unfavorable view of him, Brenan says. All of these questions in this poll show us basically the same story, and its not a good one for the Israeli government right now. Trump is unlikely to face the same pressure on his approach to Israel More than half of US adults, 55%, disapprove of Trumps handling of the situation in the Middle East, according to a July AP-NORC poll. But the conflict has not weighed as heavily on Trump as it did on Biden, who watched Democrats splinter on the issue. Thats because of Trumps solid support from his base on this issue, further reflected in Republicans continued approval of Israels military action. About 8 in 10 Republicans approve of Trumps handling of the situation in the Middle East. By contrast, only about 4 in 10 Democrats approved of Bidens handling of the conflict between the Israelis and the Palestinians last summer, shortly before he dropped out of the presidential race. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In an AP-NORC poll from March, Republicans were significantly more likely than Democrats and independents to say they sympathized more with the Israelis than with the Palestinians in the conflict. And while Americans overall were more likely to say it was extremely or very important for the United States to provide humanitarian relief to Palestinians in Gaza than to say the same about providing aid to Israels military, Republicans said the opposite more saw military aid to Israel as a higher priority than providing humanitarian relief to the Palestinians in Gaza. Amit Shah rebutted P Chidambarams claim that the Pahalgam terrorists could be homegrown, saying in Parliament that there is clear proof, including voter IDs and rifles, linking them to Pakistan. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday hit out at Congress leader P Chidambaram over his recent remarks questioning the identity of the Pahalgam attackers, asserting that India has irrefutable proof that the terrorists killed in the operation were from Pakistan. Speaking in Parliament during Operation Sindoor debate, Shah said the government had concrete evidence, including Pakistani voter ID numbers, rifles, cartridges, and even Pakistan-made chocolates, linking the April 22 Pahalgam terror attackers to Pakistan. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD NIA had already arrested those who gave them shelter. Those who fed them were detained. When the terrorists' dead bodies reached Srinagar, they were identified as the three people who carried out the terror attack in Pahalgam. The FSL report of the cartridges from the terror attack was already ready. Yesterday, the rifles of the three terrorists were seized and matched with the FSL reports. Further tests were carried out in Chandigarh yesterday, after that it was confirmed that these three were those who carried out the terror attack, Shah told the House. VIDEO | Parliament Monsoon Session: Union Home Minister Amit Shah (@AmitShah) during debate on Operation Sindoor says, "I was pained yesterday when former Home Minister P Chidambaram raised the question that what was the proof that the Pahalgam terrorists came from Pakistan? What pic.twitter.com/t3OiNBS2ko Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 29, 2025 Hitting out at Chidambaram directly, Shah said, Yesterday, Chidambaram ji raised the question, what proof is there that the terrorists came from Pakistan? This question was raised just before the discussion was to take place in Parliament. I ask, what will you gain by protecting Pakistan? We have their voter IDs..: Amit Shah He further accused the former Home Minister of giving a clean chit to Pakistan, I want to tell Chidambaram ji that we have proof , those involved in this attack were from Pakistan. We have their voter ID numbers, and the rifles and cartridges used were made in Pakistan. The former Home Minister of this country is giving Pakistan a clean chit in front of the entire world. Pahalgam attackers could be homegrown terrorists: Chidambaram The controversy was sparked by an interview Congress leader P Chidambaram gave to The Quint, where he questioned the governments claims linking Pakistan to the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, mostly civilians. Have they identified the terrorists? Where they came from? I mean, for all we know, they could be homegrown terrorists. Why do you assume that they came from Pakistan? Theres no evidence of that, Chidambaram had said in the interview. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trump took a fresh swipe at London Mayor Sadiq Khan during a press conference in Scotland, calling him a nasty person and criticising his leadership. British PM Keir Starmer, standing beside Trump, quickly defended Khan, calling him a friend of mine. US President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer attend a family photo during the Group of Seven (G7) Summit at the Kananaskis Country Golf Course in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada. AFP US President Donald Trump reignited his feud with London Mayor Sadiq Khan during a press conference in Scotland alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who stepped in and defended Khan as a friend of mine. When asked if he planned to visit London during his upcoming state visit in September, Trump replied, Im not a fan of your mayor. I think hes done a terrible job. He went on to call Khan a nasty person, prompting Starmers brief response, Hes a friend of mine, actually. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Unfazed, Trump further went back and forth saying, I think hes done a terrible job. But I would certainly visit London. 'I am not a fan of the London mayor. I think he has done a terrible job. He's a nasty person.' US President Donald Trump launches into attack on Sadiq Khan during his UK visit Follow our live blog for morehttps://t.co/jKjPXP82S4 Sky 501, Virgin 602 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/JdlXtcrwSL Sky News (@SkyNews) July 28, 2025 The animosity between Trump and Khanboth of whom have clashed repeatedly since 2016is long-standing. Khan, a Labour politician like Starmer, has often criticised Trump, particularly over his stance on immigration and his travel ban targeting several Muslim-majority nations. In return, Trump has lashed out at Khan on multiple occasions, calling him a stone cold loser, very dumb, and accusing him of doing a very bad job on terrorism. Khan, who is the first Muslim to lead a Western capital, has said Trumps attacks are rooted in bias. Hes come for me because of, lets be frank, my ethnicity and my religion, Khan said in a podcast prior to Trumps 2024 re-election. However, following Trumps win, Khan told AFP that the American people have spoken loudly and clearly and that the election result must be respected. Responding to Trumps latest remarks, a spokesperson for Khan issued a statement Monday saying the mayor was delighted that President Trump wants to come to the greatest city in the world, adding: Hed see how our diversity makes us stronger not weaker; richer, not poorer. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD US and Chinese officials resumed critical trade talks in Stockholm on Tuesday, aiming to de-escalate a mounting economic standoff. A US and Chinese flag flutter outside Sweden's government offices "Rosenbad" in Stockholm, Sweden, July 29, 2025, ahead of the second day of trade talks between China and the US. Reuters US and Chinese officials began a second day of talks in Stockholm on Tuesday to resolve longstanding economic disputes and step back from an escalating trade war between the worlds two biggest economies. The meetings may not yield immediate large breakthroughs but the two sides could agree to another 90-day extension of a tariff truce struck in mid-May. It may also pave the way for a potential meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping later in the year, though Trump on Tuesday denied going out of his way to seek one. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The delegations met for more than five hours on Monday at Rosenbad, the Swedish prime ministers office in central Stockholm. Neither side made statements after the first day of talks. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was seen arriving at Rosenbad on Tuesday morning after a separate meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. Chinas Vice Premier He Lifeng also arrived at the venue. China is facing an August 12 deadline to reach a durable tariff agreement with Trumps administration, after reaching preliminary deals in May and June to end weeks of escalating tit-for-tat tariffs and a cut-off of rare earth minerals. Without an agreement, global supply chains could face renewed turmoil from US duties snapping back to triple-digit levels that would amount to a bilateral trade embargo. The Stockholm talks follow Trumps biggest trade deal yet with the European Union on Sunday for a 15% tariff on most EU goods exports to the United States, and a deal with Japan. That agreement has brought a measure of relief to the EU but also frustration and anger, with France denouncing the deal as a submission and Germany, Europes largest economy, also warning of significant damage. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD China can exercise a degree of leverage with its grip on the global market for rare earths and magnets, used in everything from military hardware to car windshield wiper motors, analysts say. Unlike the EU, it also does not rely on the United States for security ties and can let trade talks play out for several more months, Cyrus de la Rubia, chief economist at Hamburg Commercial Bank, told Reuters. China is well aware of its strong negotiating position, as could clearly be seen in the temporary escalation observed in April, he said. But over Europe always hangs the Damocles sword of the US withdrawing its security guarantee, and that is why the EU did not escalate the situation like China did. Trump on Xi meeting The Financial Times reported on Monday that the United States had paused curbs on tech exports to China to avoid disrupting trade talks with Beijing and support Trumps efforts to secure a meeting with Xi this year. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trump pushed back against suggestions he was seeking a meeting with Xi. This is not correct, I am not SEEKING anything! I may go to China, but it would only be at the invitation of President Xi, which has been extended. Otherwise, no interest! he wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday. Previous US-China trade talks in Geneva and London in May and June focused on bringing US and Chinese retaliatory tariffs down from triple-digit levels and restoring the flow of rare earth minerals halted by China and Nvidias H20 AI chips, and other goods halted by the United States. Among broader economic issues, Washington complains that Chinas state-led, export-driven model is flooding world markets with cheap goods, while Beijing says US national security export controls on tech goods seek to stunt Chinese growth. Bessent has already flagged a deadline extension and has said he wants China to rebalance its economy away from exports to more domestic consumption a decades-long goal for US policymakers. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD China's Guangdong moves swiftly to combat Chikungunya Xinhua) 14:00, July 29, 2025 GUANGZHOU, July 28 (Xinhua) -- China's Guangdong Province has launched targeted measures, including citywide cleanup efforts, to effectively curb the spread of Chikungunya fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease. Data released on Monday by the local health bureau of Foshan, which is the city that has been hit hardest by the outbreak in Guangdong, shows that 78 percent of affected villages and communities have seen their mosquito density indexes drop to safe levels through water cleanup and mosquito eradication efforts. Foshan, which has a population of over 9 million, has designated 53 hospitals as treatment centers and expanded its number of mosquito-proof isolation beds to 7,220 to provide care for confirmed cases. As of Sunday, local health authorities had reported a total of 5,155 confirmed cases of Chikungunya fever. To eliminate mosquitoes at their source, Foshan's Chancheng District has released over 5,000 larva-eating fish into the city's lakes since last Wednesday. In Chancheng's Longcun Village, drones have been used to detect accumulated water on rooftops, storage sheds and other hard-to-reach areas where mosquito larvae are likely to breed. Covering the entire 2.5-square-kilometer village in just two hours, the operation provided data to prompt residents to clean up potential breeding sites. On Thursday, Guangdong appealed to all of its residents to clean up accumulated water by inspecting containers and water-cultured plants, and to eradicate mosquitoes and avoid mosquito bites by using screens for doors and windows, and by wearing long-sleeved clothing. Chikungunya fever is an acute infectious disease caused by the Chikungunya virus, with clinical symptoms including fever, rashes and joint pains. The virus is transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes. "There is no evidence of the human-to-human transmission of Chikungunya," Duan Leilei, a researcher at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said at a news conference on Wednesday. First identified in 1952, Chikungunya has since been reported in over 110 countries across Asia, Africa, the Americas and Europe. Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, has kicked off a weeklong mosquito eradication campaign, which will run from July 26 to August 1. From July 20 to July 26, Guangdong reported 2,940 new local cases of Chikungunya, with 2,882 cases occurring in Foshan. The reported cases have been mild, with no severe or fatal cases seen to date, according to the Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Attorneys for former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters have filed documents in federal court asking for two of her three arguments that she should be released on bail pending her appeal should be dismissed. Peters habeas corpus request would allow her to be released pending her appeal unless a justifiable reason is found for her incarceration. She is currently being held at the La Vista Correctional Facility in Pueblo, serving a nine-year sentence. Peters was convicted of three counts of attempting to influence a public servant, one count of conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation, one count of official misconduct and one count of failure to comply with the secretary of state, and sentenced to nine years of incarceration in October 2024 after she was accused of allowing an unauthorized person to enter a secure area of the Mesa County Elections Division in May 2021 to make copies of computer hard drives in search of election fraud, and misleading officials in the process. She has appealed the conviction. Peters is now arguing she should be released on bail pending her appeal because her prosecution and conviction violated her right to free speech. Magistrate Scott T. Varholak said in a hearing last week, reiterating a position he had given earlier, that the two other arguments in Peters federal case had not been sufficiently exhausted at the state level to merit consideration at the federal level, and the case as a whole was at risk of being dismissed as a mixed petition, in which an application contains both exhausted and un-exhausted claims. One argument in question stated Peters should be released based on the supremacy clause of the U.S. Constitution because the state of Colorado is punishing her for actions undertaken in complying with federal regulations as Mesa Countys elections official. The other argument in question stated Peters prosecution was arbitrary and in violation of her 14th Amendment rights. A motion to allow bond during appeal was denied in Mesa County District Court Oct. 3, and denied by the Colorado Court of Appeals Dec. 6. Attorneys for both sides of the case are now being asked to file briefs related to jurisdictional issues should Peters be let out of prison. Iran's Intelligence Ministry details counterintelligence masterstroke during Israeli-US war Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 11:29 AM Iran's Intelligence Ministry has detailed its complex multi-pronged intelligence operations aimed at neutralizing enemies' attempts at infiltration and subversion during the Israeli regime's and the US's unprovoked war last month. In a statement on Monday, the ministry cataloged its counterintelligence operations in the face of the warfare that saw the Israeli regime beginning to attack nuclear, military, and civilian targets across the country on June 13 and later soliciting American assistance. The war lasted no more than 12 days, ending after the Islamic Republic's defensive and retaliatory strikes compelled Tel Aviv to request a ceasefire. The ministry described the war as a "full-scale, hybrid aggression" by the regime and the United States, backed by various adversarial groups, including terrorist outfits, as well as some European countries. According to the ministry, the Zionist regime was aided in the war by "the Western intelligence-security NATO." The goal, it stated, went beyond delivering a military blow to the Islamic Republic, extending into efforts by the aggressors to overthrow the country's Islamic establishment, disintegrate the country, and sow domestic destabilization. However, the statement hailed that "not a single operation against the country's security was realized," attributing this to divine grace, the instructions issued by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and the nation's insight. Throughout the course of the aggression, it said, the enemy employed advanced satellite, cyber, tracking, surveillance, artificial intelligence, and social media technologies. "The Ministry of Intelligence monitored and countered threats in these areas, preventing riots, provocations, and enemy infiltration," the statement read. According to the statement, the ministry resorted to conducting "extensive counter-espionage operations" throughout the occupied Palestinian territories against the Zionist regime as a means of countering its encroachments against the country. Those collaborating with elements within the regime were identified, and some were arrested, it said, adding that the ministry also confronted agents enlisted by the regime's Mossad agency, placed them under arrest and disrupted their operations. Over all, as many as 20 Mossad-linked operatives were arrested across 13 provinces. The ministry's operatives further arrested three commanders and 50 members of Takfiri terrorist groups such as Daesh, who have been enlisted towards furthering the aggressors' goals. "Sabotage and terrorist plots were uncovered and neutralized both inside the country and along the borders," it said, adding that plots aimed at ethnic division and separatism were also countered. The aggressors had simultaneously sought to implement plots aimed at setting up a "puppet government" centered on Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran's former tyrannical monarch -- who used to be backed by the US -- and Mossad agents, the statement added. Those plots "were identified and disrupted" by the ministry, which dealt "significant blows" to the organizational networks of monarchist groups and their operatives besides successfully confronting cultist elements. Still as part of its deterrent steps, the ministry successfully monitored and disrupted the enemy's psychological operations across the cyberspace. Those efforts led to arrest of the administrators of social media pages linked to espionage and foreign intelligence operations. Adversaries had also directed cyber threats and sabotage efforts at the country's information technology infrastructure, which were similarly scuttled. The intelligence ministry's operatives, meanwhile, monitored and discovered weapons stockpiles belonging to terrorist groups along the country's borders. Additionally, they prevented terrorists from transferring weapons into the Islamic Republic's borders and deploying them in operations against the country. Counterintelligence measures also led to discovery and foiling of the Israeli regime's terrorist plots to assassinate 23 Iranian authorities, along with 13 similar conspiracies in the months leading up to the war. Overall, the efforts prevented assassinations of 35 senior civil and military officials. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iranian Intel Prevented 35 Israel's Attempts to Assassinate Its Officials During 12-Day War Sputnik News 20250728 TEHRAN (Sputnik) - Israel planned assassinations of 23 senior Iranian officials during the acute phase of the Iran-Israel conflict in June, Tehran prevented a total of 35 attempts to assassinate its senior officials and army representatives, the Iranian ministry of information and communications technology said on Monday. "[Actions were taken to] detect and neutralize Israel's terrorist plans to eliminate 23 officials during the [acute phase of] the 12-day war and 13 similar plots in the last days of the war, which led to the prevention of 35 assassination attempts on senior Iranian officials and representatives of the army," the ministry said in a statement. Earlier, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has once again threatened to eliminate Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei if the Iranian government threatens Israel, according to a report by the Jerusalem Post citing his remarks. "Our long arm will once again reach into Iranwith greater forceand this time, it will reach you personally. Don't threaten us, or you will suffer," the Jerusalem Post quoted the minister as saying. According to the report, Katz made the statement during a visit to Ramon Airbase. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was also present at the base during the visit. Back in June, the Israeli news outlet Ynet reported that Katz had already voiced support for targeting Iran's top leader. On the night of June 13, Israel launched a military operation against Iran, accusing it of pursuing a secret military nuclear program. Targets of the airstrikes and sabotage raids included nuclear facilities, high-ranking military officers, prominent nuclear physicists, airbases, air defense systems, and surface-to-surface missiles. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Contracts Contracts For July 28, 2025 MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY Lockheed Martin Corporation Missiles and Fire Control, Dallas, Texas, is being awarded a $2,063,197,215 modification (P00105) to a previously awarded contract (HQ0147-17-C-0032) for the production of Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Interceptors to support the U.S. government. The total value of this contract is increased from $8,353,586,643 to $10,416,783,858. Under this modification, the contractor will produce THAAD components under fixed-price incentive (firm-target) contract line-item numbers. The work will be performed in Dallas, Texas; Sunnyvale, California; Troy, Alabama; and Camden, Arkansas, with an expected completion date Dec. 1, 2029. One offer was solicited, and one offer was received. Fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2025 procurement funds in the amount of $284,917,283 are being obligated at time of award. The Missile Defense Agency, Huntsville, Alabama, is the contracting activity. DEFENSE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AGENCY General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, Virginia, was awarded a $98,000,000 contract modification (P00030) to extend the ordering period and ceiling value to a previously awarded competitive, single award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (HC1028-15-D-0007) to provide communications systems acquisition, integration, installation, operations, and maintenance in support of U.S. Air Forces Central Command (USAFCENT) deployed mission requirements. The ordering period is extended to Sept. 8, 2026, and the lifecycle value of this contract action is increased by $98,000,000. The total lifecycle value of the contract is $814,000,000. Performance will be at USAFCENT locations throughout Southwest Asia. The Defense Information Technology Contracting Organization, Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, is the contracting activity. (Awarded June 23, 2025) ARMY Whitman Requardt and Associates LLP, Baltimore, Maryland, was awarded a $90,000,000 modification (P00005) to contract W912DR-20-D-0006 for architect-engineer services. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $90,000,000. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of July 30, 2026. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore, Maryland, is the contracting activity. Burns and McDonnell Engineering Co. Inc., Arlington, Virginia, was awarded a $90,000,000 modification (P00007) to contract W912DR-20-D-0002 for architect-engineer services. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $90,000,000. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of July 30, 2026. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore, Maryland, is the contracting activity. AECOM Technical Services Inc., Los Angeles, California, was awarded a $90,000,000 modification (P00004) to contract W912DR-20-D-0001 for architect-engineer services. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $90,000,000. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of July 30, 2026. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore, Maryland, is the contracting activity. Stantec Consulting Services Inc., Raleigh, North Carolina, was awarded a $90,000,000 modification (P00006) to contract W912DR-20-D-0005 for architect-engineer services. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $90,000,000. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of July 30, 2026. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore, Maryland, is the contracting activity. HDR Engineering Inc., Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, was awarded a $90,000,000 modification (P00008) to contract W912DR-20-D-0004 for architect-engineer services. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $90,000,000. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of July 30, 2026. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore, Maryland, is the contracting activity. Gf-D Design Partners JV, Fairfax, Virginia, was awarded a $90,000,000 modification (P00004) to contract W912DR-20-D-0003 for architect-engineer services. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $90,000,000. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of July 30, 2026. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore, Maryland, is the contracting activity. The Boeing Co., Mesa, Arizona, was awarded an $11,024,012 modification (P00010) to contract W58RGZ-24-C-0036 for maintenance augmentation team services. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $11,024,012. Work will be performed in Mesa, Arizona, with an estimated completion date of July 31, 2026. Fiscal 2025 Foreign Military Sales funds (Qatar) in the amount of $11,024,012 were obligated at the time of the award. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, is the contracting activity. AIR FORCE Viasat Inc., Carlsbad, California (FA8807-25-F-B017); Northrop Grumman Space Systems, Dulles, Virginia (FA8807-25-F-B018); Astranis Space Technologies Corp., San Francisco, California (FA8807-25-F-B019); Intelsat General Communications LLC, McLean, Virginia (FA8807-25-F-B020); and The Boeing Co., El Segundo, California (FA8807-25-F-B021), have been awarded combined $37,296,196 firm-fixed-price, multiple-award, indefinitedelivery/indefinitequantity contracts for the procurement of design and demonstration in support of the Protected Tactical Satellite-Global program. Work will be performed at the listed contractors' locations and is expected to be completed by Jan. 31, 2026. These contracts were a competitive acquisition and eight offers were received. Fiscal 2025 research, development, test and evaluations funds in the amount of $37,296,196 are being obligated at the time of award. The Space Systems Command, Los Angeles Air Force Base, is the contracting activity. Sea Pac Engineering Inc., Los Angeles, California, was awarded a $36,882,982 firm-fixed-price contract for troop housing construction. This contract provides for design and full repair of the Palau Dorm B25016, Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Work will be performed at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam and is expected to be completed by Dec. 10, 2027. This contract was a competitive acquisition, and five offers were received. Fiscal 2025 operations and maintenance appropriations funds in the amount of $36,882,982 are being obligated at the time of award. The 36th Contracting Squadron, Andersen AFB, Guam, is the contracting activity (FA5240-25-C-0005). University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma was awarded a $8,800,000 cost-reimbursement contract for sustainment and modernization research and development: operationalizing additive manufacturing (AM), phase two. This contract provides for development of a cross-platform AM repair framework for quality assurance and the development of a performance-based AM qualification framework along with research on advanced manufacturing techniques for avionics sustainment, ensuring a robust, scalable approach to modernizing Air Force logistics and maintenance operations. Work will be performed at Norman, Oklahoma, and is expected to be completed by Oct. 15, 2028. This contract was a competitive acquisition and one offer was received. Fiscal 2024 research and development funds in the amount of $8,800,000 are being obligated at time of award. The Air Force Laboratory, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA2394-25-C-B029). *Small business https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract/Article/4257577/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pevkur in Washington: NATO is of vital importance to the U.S. Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Defence 26. July 2025 - 10:00 Estonian Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur, together with Latvian Minister of Defence Andris Spruds and Lithuanian Minister of National Defence Dovile Sakaliene, met yesterday in Washington with U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. The discussion focused on the significance of the U.S. military presence in strengthening Baltic defence, advancing military cooperation, and increasing Allied defence spending to meet NATO capability goals. "NATO is vitally important to the United States, as clearly demonstrated by the recent decision at the summit in The Hague to raise defence spending to 5% of GDP. The U.S. played a key leadership role in reaching that agreement," said Minister Pevkur following the meeting. "From our perspective, it's essential to continue the excellent cooperation we've established. U.S. forces train in Estonia in full integration with Estonian Defence Forces. This military partnership is mutually beneficial and of the highest standard," he added. "The presence of U.S. troops adds significant value to the training of Estonian units including the integration of HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems delivered this year, and through participation in joint exercises," Pevkur said. The defence ministers of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania expressed their appreciation to the U.S. administration for its leadership in encouraging European Allies to increase defence investments in line with NATO capability targets. "It's clear that European Allies must work hard to meet the objectives agreed at The Hague. The U.S. has played a powerful role in driving that effort. We briefed the Secretary Hegseth on our national defence plans, reaffirming that the Baltic States are fully committed to reaching 5% of GDP in defence spending," said Pevkur. Currently, about 600 U.S. troops are stationed in Estonia on a rotational basis. Task Force Victory, operating HIMARS systems, is based at Tapa alongside the 1st Infantry Brigade of the Estonian Defence Forces. Additionally, the 7th Cavalry Regiments 5th Squadron of U.S. Armed Forces (5-7 CAV) is deployed at Reedo Camp near Voru. While in Washington, Minister Pevkur also met with members of the U.S. Senate and various think tanks to discuss U.S.-Estonia defence cooperation, continued support for Ukraine, and the decisions made at NATO's recent summit in The Hague. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement by Minister Anand on the Israeli-Palestinian situation Global Affairs Canada Statement July 27, 2025 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, issued the following statement: "Canada notes the Israeli government's decision to unblock aid so it can enter Gaza. "This is the right step in the right direction that will bring much-needed relief to Palestinian civilians. However, Canada urges the Israeli government to allow the sustained and large-scale delivery of UN-led humanitarian aidand make this humanitarian access permanent. "On July 25, 2027, I spoke with Israel's Foreign Affairs Minister, Gideon Sa'ar, to seek assurances that trucks carrying Canadian aid would be allowed to enter Gaza. "I also spoke with Jordan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ayman Safadi, to assure him of Canada's support of the Jordanian humanitarian corridor to transfer this aid. In total, Canada has committed more than $315 million of humanitarian aid since the beginning of the crisis. "Canada thanks Jordan for allowing us to pre-position our aid there until such time that the Israeli government will permit it to enter Gaza. Canada will continue to play a leading role with international partners that contribute to humanitarian efforts, so that aid continues to reach those who need it. "This war must end. The parties must work towards an immediate ceasefire, and Hamas must release all of the hostages." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address League strongly condemns attempt to impose illegitimate government in Nyala, calls for respecting Sudan's unity and sovereignty League of Arab States Date: 27/07/2025 The League of Arab States condemned the announcement made on 26 July by a Sudanese coalition affiliated with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) regarding the formation of a parallel government in Nyala and its intention to appoint governors for several regions. This action constitutes a blatant challenge to the will of the Sudanese people and represents an attempt to impose a fait accompli through military force, disregarding the risks such a move poses to any prospects for a comprehensive political solution to the Sudanese crisis. It further threatens to intensify the cycles of violence and displacement endured by millions of innocent Sudanese. The League of Arab States reaffirmed its unequivocal rejection of the establishment of any parallel governments or administrations outside the constitutional and legal framework of the Sudanese state. It warned against the continued pursuit of plans aimed at undermining Sudanese state institutions, replacing the rule of law with disorder, and substituting the will of the people with the force of armsan effort that could lead to the fragmentation of Sudan into warring cantons. Such developments pose a serious threat to regional peace, stability, and security. The General Secretariat stressed the need for full compliance with international legitimacy, particularly United Nations Security Council Resolution 2736 of 13 June 2024, which called on the Rapid Support Forces to lift the siege on El Fasher, and for the complete implementation of the Jeddah Agreement signed in 2023 concerning the protection of civilians and the facilitation of humanitarian access in Sudan. The League of Arab States also recalled the Security Council statement of 5 March 2025, which rejected the creation of a parallel governing authority in Sudan due to its potential to escalate the ongoing conflict, further fragment the country, and exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation. The Secretariat urged the Sudanese parties involved in establishing this illegitimate parallel government to halt all unilateral measures that further divide the Sudanese state under any justification. It called for an immediate commitment to a cessation of hostilities in line with the Jeddah Agreement and for adherence to international humanitarian law to ensure the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to those affected by the conflict. The League of Arab States also called for renewed political dialogue among civilian parties under the auspices of regional and international mediation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address On Cambodia and Thailand High Level Talks US Department of State Press Statement Marco Rubio, Secretary of State July 27, 2025 Cambodia and Thailand are scheduled to begin high level talks in Malaysia shortly in hopes of achieving an immediate ceasefire. State Department officials are on the ground in Malaysia to assist these peace efforts. Both President Trump and I remain engaged with our respective counterparts for each country and are monitoring the situation very closely. We want this conflict to end as soon as possible. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry summons Russian charge d'affaires for the violation of Estonia's maritime border Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 28.07.2025 | 15:50 Today 28 July, the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the charge d'affaires of the Russian Embassy to issue a protest and present a formal note regarding the violation of Estonia's maritime border. The violation occurred near the island of Vaindloo, where on 26 July, a border guard vessel of the Russian Federation entered Estonia's territorial sea without permission. "The violation of Estonia's maritime border by Russia is a serious and unacceptable incident. This message was also conveyed to the charge d'affaires of the Russian Federation," Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Remarks by Commissioner Suica at the high-level conference on the two-state solution for Palestine European Commission Speech Jul 28, 2025 New York "Check against delivery" Rountable of Working Group 8: Peace Supporting Package Excellencies, The European Union is honoured to lead, with our Arab League partners, the work on the 'Peace Day Effort'. By working together on the vision for the 'day after', we lay the ground for it to become a reality. In my capacity as co-chair representing the EU, I will now report on the numerous contributions received and the working group's conclusions, with three important measures that gathered positive feedback: First, there is a clear need for a phased, conditional, and multidimensional actionable 'Peace Supporting Package'. This package would be rolled out immediately after an agreement on a negotiated two-state solution by the parties, grounded in international law. Support to the Palestinian Authority is key. The EU is already the largest assistance provider to the Palestinian Authority. I recently approved a 1.6 billion support package for 2025 to 2027, linked to structural reforms. We offered concrete ideas to elaborate our long-standing offer to provide an unprecedented package of political, security and economic support to both parties. I am currently working to set-up a Palestine Donors Group. This Donors Group should serve as a forum to support the Palestinian Authority's reform agenda. A place where donors can follow the reforms carried out and exchange views on how best to support the Palestinian Authority as well as pledge their financial support. It will also serve as a concrete instrument to facilitate discussions on the recovery and reconstruction of Gaza. Second, we need to develop a regional security architecture for the Middle East. All necessary security guarantees will have to be provided to the parties. These will have to take into account sovereignty, as well as the legitimate security concerns of Israel that cannot and must not be ignored. The full respect by all actors of international law is a must, including international humanitarian law and International human rights law . I also want to underline that many Member States have mentioned the possibility of an OSCE-inspired regional security model, or other regional integration initiatives. Third, this conference must mandate a follow-up mechanism, to implement its agenda. The Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution stands out as an existing mechanism, open to all and fit for purpose. It already includes more than 100 states and international organisations. The EU and the League of Arab States are encouraging all states to actively take part in this Alliance. It appears best suited to take forward the important work initiated in the eight working groups. Excellencies, In my capacity as representative of the European Union, I must reiterate the Union's unwavering commitment both to peace and to the two-state solution. We are already doing much to achieve these goals. In simple terms we are keeping the Palestinian Authority from financial collapse. And we have stepped up our engagement to reach a ceasefire and improve access for humanitarian support. Regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza, we have laid a framework to allow goods to enter Gaza to stop civilians suffering. But the framework was only partially implemented, due to inability to distribute the goods in a safe and organised environment. We expect that Israel will cooperate to ensure humanitarian aid delivery. We are fully committed to achieving lasting peace in the region, and supportive in accordance with international law, of the two-state solution. We want to see Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security within recognised borders. Thank you. *** Plenary session Excellencies, I salute the historic initiative of United Nations General Assembly, under the co-chairmanship of France and Kingdom or Saudi Arabia to convene this conference. The European Union is fully committed to achieving lasting peace in the Middle East region - our immediate neighbourhood. We support the two-state solution in accordance with international law. We want to see Israel and Palestine living side by side - in peace and security within recognised borders. Let me first address the situation in Gaza Since the 7 October terrorist attacks on Israel, the world has been witnessing an unprecedented tragedy. The European Union continues to call for a ceasefire, the release of all hostages, a swift flow of humanitarian aid and the disarmament of Hamas. We appreciate the mediation activities from Egypt, the United States and Qatar. We are also acting: only in 2025, the EU has committed 170 million in humanitarian assistance for Palestine. This brings the total EU humanitarian aid provided to 500 million since 2023. Beyond funding, we have also transported humanitarian cargo through ReliefEU and supported medical evacuations through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. But this is not enough. EU agreement with Israel on humanitarian access to Gaza was an important step but it needs to be fully and swiftly implemented. Israel should lift its blockade on Gaza. Not only do we need more trucks, more crossing points, and more fuel. The security situation at border crossings must be guaranteed so that aid can enter, be offloaded to reach the people in need. We need a safe and unhindered distribution! My second message is - we must support the Palestinian Authority: The Two-state Solution can only be achieved with a reformed and revitalised Palestinian Authority. We have been a long-term partner in delivering concrete and wide-ranging support to the Palestinian Authority and its reform agenda. I am pleased to inform you today that the Palestinian Authority has already delivered on key milestones. This is a strong signal of commitment amid increasingly difficult conditions. We welcome the announcement of presidential and general elections within a year across the Palestinian territory and for that purpose passing the expected party law. On my end, I am proud to underscore that the European Union will support the Palestine Authority to the level of 1.6 billion for the next three years. In June, we already disbursed 202 million for food, salaries and hospitals, also linked to structural reforms. Two weeks ago, the European Investment Bank has approved 400 million in loans. This will benefit Palestinian entrepreneurs and private business in dire need of liquidity. But the needs are vast. We need to do more. I am therefore calling on all of you to join our efforts in providing reform-based and at-scale support to the Palestinian Authority. To facilitate this task, I am currently working to set-up a Palestine Donor Group within the coming months. This is a forum where the Palestinian Authority would present its reform progress to donors and where financial support can be coordinated. When speaking about support to the Palestinian Authority, Israeli cooperation is crucial. The release of withheld funds and the regular and predictable transfer of clearance revenues by Israel is imperative. In the absence of these urgent payments, the Palestinian Authority risks being effectively paralysed within a few months. We will continue to work with Israel for that purpose. We also need to look ahead and think about reconstruction: We are ready to provide further assistance when conditions are met, and we welcome efforts in this direction of the Arab Plan for Gaza Reconstruction. We stand ready to facilitate discussions on the day after the ceasefire. We could do this with our partners in particular in the context of the mentioned Palestine Donor Group, and contribute on all issues, security, stability, governance, and support the Palestinian Authority's role in Gaza. Let me reiterate: The only horizon is political and is the two-state solution. It should be absolutely maintained and the European Union is taking concrete steps to prevent any undermining actions. Recognition of a Palestinian State is not a prerogative of EU but of its Members States but we will continue to support PA in its ambition to exert the abilities of a State. There should be no impunity to settlers' violence against Palestinian civilians. We have sanctioned violent settlers twice and are examining a third package of sanctions. Alongside a Palestinian State we need a safe state of Israel. There can be no compromise on this. Terrorism cannot prevail. Hamas must be fully disarmed and cannot be part of any solution in Gaza. The European Union has welcomed the Abraham Accords as a positive development for regional stability and cooperation; they contribute to the security of Israel. Concrete commitments to regional integration and the regional security architecture are part of the 'unprecedented peace package' that the European Union and the Arab League have co-chaired in the context of this conference. Civil society should be fully associated as it has a fundamental role to shape a new narrative, fight incitement and promote dialogue. We need also to hear the voice of women more. EU is working in support of these efforts. This conference is about taking concrete steps forward. In fact, there is already a follow-up mechanism in place, to implement the concrete action-agenda - the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution. And we should mandate the Global Alliance to do so. The European Union remains available and ready, as a neighbour and a major partner to both Israel and the Palestinian Authority, to work actively to end the war and towards the Two-State Solution. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Germany Federal Foreign Office 28.07.2025 - Press release Minister of State Florian Hahn issued the following statement today (28 July 2025) prior to his departure for New York: Right now there is hardly a conflict that is giving foreign policy and people around the world as much cause for concern as the ongoing devastating war in Gaza. Our urgent goal is an immediate ceasefire and an immediate end of the war. Hamas must finally free all hostages and lay down its weapons. In future, no threat to Israel must emanate from Gaza. The humanitarian disaster in Gaza has to be stopped. In parallel, we need a sustainable solution to the Middle East conflict. There cannot be a return to the status quo ante. The brutal terrorist attack of 7 October and the ensuing war in Gaza with the civilian population enduring unbearable suffering clearly show that the conflict can neither be managed nor won but must be resolved. This is what the Federal Government has been working to achieve for a long time. To bring about a durable resolution of the conflict, the two-state solution remains the only blueprint on which there has been international agreement and which enables both the Palestinians and the Israelis to live in peace, security and dignity. That is why I am attending the high-level Conference on the Two-State Solution hosted by France and Saudi Arabia in New York on 28 and 29 July. In New York, we want to inject new momentum into the process to bring about the two-state solution. At the Conference, I will underscore Germany's approach and concrete contributions to implement the two-state solution - rooted in our non-negotiable commitment to Israel's security. We need a new security architecture in Gaza and concrete day-after scenarios. However, it is also clear that this can only happen if Hamas releases all hostages, lays down weapons and relinquishes all future claims to power. Germany is helping build the future Palestinian state every day by strengthening the Palestinian Authority and lending support as it establishes state structures in the Palestinian territories and engages in reform. This all bolsters Israel's security as well. We clearly condemn Israeli settlement activities, settler violence and attempts to annex land in the West Bank. After all, this policy undermines a two-state solution and renders it impossible. Alongside an Israel in 1967 borders, an independent, democratic state of Palestine needs to emerge living in peace side by side with its neighbours. Germany will play its part. Thailand, Cambodia reach 'unconditional, immediate' ceasefire Global Times By Chen Qingqing Published: Jul 28, 2025 11:50 PM Thailand and Cambodia agreed on Monday to an "immediate and unconditional" ceasefire to end their border clashes starting midnight on Monday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said, as the leaders of the two countries met in Malaysia after their border conflict entered the fifth day, according to media reports. According to the CNN, the nations will convene a meeting of regional commanders from the Cambodian and Thai sides on Tuesday, citing Malaysian side, which mediated the peace talks as the current chair of the ASEAN. As part of the ceasefire agreement, Thailand and Cambodia will also resume direct communications between their prime ministers, foreign minister and defense ministers, according to the BBC. The defense and foreign ministers of Malaysia, Cambodia and Thailand have also been asked to set up a "detailed mechanism" for the "implementation, verification and reporting of the ceasefire", according to a press release published after this afternoon's talks, per BBC. Notably, Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand's acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai both thanked US President Donald Trump and the Chinese government in their brief comments during the press conference, the BBC reported. According to BBC, Phumtham Wechayachai said the ceasefire was negotiated by his country "in good faith" and that Thailand is committed to peace, while Hun Manet said that it's a time to "start rebuilding trust and confidence going forward between Cambodia and Thailand." Before the meeting, the ASEAN foreign ministers released a joint statement Monday morning, calling on both sides to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from taking any actions that may undermine ceasefire efforts, the Xinhua News Agency reported. Armed clashes between Cambodian and Thai soldiers over disputed border areas have entered the fifth day as more than 100 people have been killed or injured with thousands evacuated on both sides, according to figures provided by the two countries, Xinhua said. China is deeply saddened by the casualties inflicted on both sides and expresses heartfelt sympathies. We hope both sides will bear in mind the interests of the two peoples, cherish peace and good-neighborliness, exercise calm and restraint, come to a ceasefire as soon as possible, settle differences peacefully through dialogue and consultation, and restore peace and stability along the border soon, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday in response to the border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. Both Cambodia and Thailand are important members of ASEAN. ASEAN has been working intensively for days to bring about a ceasefire between the two sides. China commends it and welcomes all efforts conducive to de-escalation. China will maintain its fair and impartial position and continue having close communication with both sides, actively facilitate talks for peace and play a constructive role for a ceasefire, Guo said. Some Chinese observers welcomed the latest progress made by Thailand and Cambodia as both countries are members of ASEAN, and believed Malaysia, as the current ASEAN chair, hopes to maintain internal unity during the mediation. Also, the international community, including China, the UN, and the US, has pushed for a ceasefire and encouraged both sides to halt the conflict, they said. But the ceasefire is just the first step, and the key issue moving forward is whether both sides can truly return to the path of dialogue and negotiation, an observer said, noting that after all, the border dispute has lasted for over a century, and Thailand and Cambodia differ in their approach to resolving the dispute. Mediation efforts In a Facebook post published following the ceasefire talk, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said the ceasefire was a "brilliant result" which is an important step toward reducing tensions and restoring peace and security. Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said Thailand had agreed to the ceasefire that would "be carried out successfully in good faith by both sides," Reuters said. The leaders indicated that fighting will stop immediately, even as clashes continued in the hours before the peace talks, CNN said. Cambodian authorities accused Thailand of striking at least two locations in the early hours, while the Thai army said clashes were taking place in three provinces on Monday morning, according to CNN. Following the agreed ceasefire, the most important issue is whether Thailand and Cambodia can truly continue negotiations, Ge Hongliang, deputy director of the College of ASEAN Studies at Guangxi University for Nationalities, told the Global Times on Monday. "How to ensure both sides withdraw their troops and avoid further deployment of large-scale military forces and weapons in the border area and territorial waters is crucial. Only after maintaining a certain distance at the border can conditions be created for genuine dialogue between the two sides," Ge said. The recent conflict between Thailand and Cambodia is not the first of its kind, Song Zhongping, a military affairs expert told the Global Times on Monday. "Although this clash is somewhat larger in scale, their tensions have deep historical roots, going back to unresolved issues left behind from the French colonial era. Therefore, this conflict cannot be resolved through a single battle," Song said, noting that a ceasefire is both the will of the people and the prevailing trend. The complexity of this conflict lies not only in the divergence of positions, but also in its deep roots in nearly a century of historical disputes, Ge noted. "While a ceasefire is an essential first step, preventing similar conflicts from happening again will require both sides to engage in deeper dialogue and cooperation to address the more fundamental and complicated issues at play," he said. In a meeting with Kao Kim Hourn, secretary-general of ASEAN, on Friday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the recent clashes on the border between Cambodia and Thailand that caused casualties are deeply distressing. China - a common friend and neighbor to both nations - stands ready to maintain an impartial position and continue playing a constructive role in de-escalating tensions, Wang said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU-US trade deal draws backlash from European business, as von der Leyen's awkward posture spark users' scorn Global Times By Global Times Published: Jul 28, 2025 09:15 AM The US on Sunday announced that it had reached a trade agreement with the EU, which includes a 15 percent tariff on EU goods. BBC described the agreement as the result of "tough negotiations," even as some hailed it as a "huge deal." The agreement also includes terms unilaterally proposed by the Trump administration, under which the EU would increase investment in the US by $600 billion, including purchases of American military equipment, and commit $750 billion to energy spending, according to the report. According to a video clip showed by the Florida's Voice, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen told Trump during a press conference following the agreement that "You're known as a tough negotiator and dealmaker." Trump quickly interjected, "But fair," prompting von der Leyen to echo, "And fair." However, Trump immediately followed up with, "That's less important," which drew laughter from the room. When asked by a reporter whether he could offer the EU better than the current 15 percent tariff rate, Trump confirmed, "Better meaning lower?" After the reporter replied "Yes," he immediately shot back, "No," while von der Leyen remained silent, a Fox News video shows. Von der Leyen's performance during the press conference prompted some users' scorn on social media platform X, where they said she appeared "under pressure." As videos showed her hands folded on her knees, the scene further fueled online reaction of her passive posture. In another exchange, as she attempted to praise Trump's approach, he cut in to declare himself "fair" then quickly added "but less," prompting an awkward nod from Von der Leyen. The moment was widely described by X users as "cringeworthy." While the framework has been finalized, it has drawn criticism across the EU, with official and industry figures warning that tariff levels remain elevated and the agreement offers little cause for optimism. Finnish Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio said on Sunday local time that while the agreement has eased tensions, there is little reason to celebrate, as tariff levels remain high, China Media Group (CMG) reported. In the long run, this may not be a particularly sustainable agreement, but we'll wait and see, according to Tavio, per CMG. Tavio said he looks forward to the European Commission providing detailed information about the content of the agreement and the positions of EU member states, according to the report. He noted that trade policy has become increasingly strained and global trade more unstable as a result of tariff negotiations initiated by the Trump administration. The tariffs level has also been criticized as harmful by leaders in Germany's business and economic circles. According to estimates by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, a blanket 15 percent tariff alongside higher duties on steel and aluminum would reduce Germany's GDP by 0.15 percent within a year, equivalent to a loss of 6.5 billion euros ($7.1 billion). The overall GDP of the EU would decline by 0.1 percent. Julian Hinz, head of the Research Center Trade Policy at the Kiel Institute, strongly criticized the agreement to lower tariffs to 15 percent, describing it as "a bad deal, scarcely better than the Trump administration's 30 percent tariff threat," according to CMG's another report. He emphasized this undermined the rules-based global trading system, and slammed it as a serious strategic mistake. Describing the deal as a painful compromise that was an "existential threat" for many of its members, Germany's BGA wholesale and export association said it was time for Europe to reduce its reliance on its biggest trading partner, the Reuters reported on Monday. "Let's look on the past months as a wake-up call," said BGA President Dirk Jandura. Jandura called on the Europe must now prepare itself strategically for the future, "we need new trade deals with the biggest industrial powers of the world." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Norway contributes NOK 200 million in budget support to Palestine Government of Norway Press release | Date: 28/07/2025 Norway is contributing NOK 200 million to help ensure that public employees in Palestine receive their salaries. This week, Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide is attending a UN conference on the two-state solution in New York. Norway and Japan are co-chairs of the working group focused on strengthening the Palestinian economy. The goal is to ensure that a future Palestinian state has a sustainable economy and the capacity to provide essential services to its population. 'The Palestinian government is facing a economic crisis that the international community must take seriously. Basic services such as healthcare, education and social protection must be sustained. That is why we are now supporting Palestine with NOK 200 million', said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide. The economic crisis in Palestine has worsened due to the war in Gaza and Israel's withholding of Palestinian tax revenues. According to Palestinian authorities, Israel has since October 2023 withheld revenues amounting to NOK 27.5 billion - roughly half of Palestine's national budget for 2025. 'It is unacceptable that Israel is withholding revenues that rightfully belong to the Palestinian people. This practice not only undermines the Palestinian authorities' ability to provide services, but also contributes to growing hardship and instability in an already extremely vulnerable situation', said Eide. 'A sustainable solution to this conflict requires strong, functioning Palestinian institutions. We are not supporting a Palestinian state on paper - we are supporting a functioning state for the Palestinian people', said the Foreign Minister. Norway's support to Palestine in 2025 will total more than NOK 1.1 billion. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran slams Western silence on Gaza, hails Brazil's support for Palestine IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 28, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- President Masoud Pezeshkian has condemned the inaction of Western countries over Israel's military aggression in Gaza, calling it a "shameful" failure by self-proclaimed advocates of human rights. Speaking at a ceremony on Monday to receive the credentials of Brazil's new ambassador to Tehran, Andre Veras Guimaraes, Pezeshkian praised Brazil's stance in support of Palestinian rights and denounced Israel's attacks on Iranian territory. The president welcomed Brazil's positions as both a bilateral partner and as the current chair of the BRICS bloc, hailing its policies against unilateralism and in favor of multilateralism. "What we are witnessing in Gaza today violates all international laws and offends the conscience of any awakened soul," Pezeshkian said. Despite geographical distance, Iran and Brazil have strong potential for cooperation in various fields, he added, expressing hope that the new envoy would help elevate bilateral ties and pursue shared interests. Ambassador Guimaraes, for his part, reiterated Brazil's condemnation of Israeli crimes in Gaza and its opposition to recent attacks against Iran, saying his country remains committed to multilateralism and resisting unilateral approaches through the BRICS framework. He added that the wide-ranging capacities of both countries could overcome the challenges posed by distance and facilitate closer cooperation. 9341**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address One million undocumented Afghans return to Afghanistan: Minister of Interior IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 28, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Eskandar Momeni, Minister of Interior, has announced the departure of one million undocumented Afghan migrants back to Afghanistan, stating that about 6 million Afghans are present in Iran, of which approximately 2 million are undocumented and must return. On Sunday, Momeni stated that there are between 6 to 8 million foreigners in Iran and outlined the Islamic Republic's plans for their return. He noted that, to date, one million Afghans have returned to their country, with over 70 percent of them doing so voluntarily. Momeni said that Iran cannot accommodate more than this number of migrants, adding that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees came to Iran a few days ago and expressed special gratitude for the Islamic Republic's efforts. The minister also said that Afghan officials, especially governors of neighboring provinces, also came to Iran and saw that the repatriation process is being done with utmost respect. He further said that Iran and Afghanistan are neighbors and have a long history and many commonalities, adding that millions of Afghan migrants are legally present in Iran, working and building lives; however, those who are undocumented must return. 4208**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Latvia and Sweden sign Letter of Intent to Supply Archer 8x8 Artillery Systems to National Armed Forces Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Defence 07/28/2025 - 13:58 In Latvia International cooperation NATO Information prepared by Media Relations Section On Tuesday, June 10, the Ministry of Defence signed a letter of intent with Sweden on a mutual commitment to conclude an intergovernmental agreement in the future for the supply of 18 "Archer" 8x8 wheeled artillery systems to the National Armed Forces, potentially also promoting the participation of the local defence industry in the supply security chain. "The agreement between Sweden and Latvia marks a significant step in closer defense cooperation between the two countries. The agreement provides a solid basis for joint military exercises, soldier training, and the presence of effective artillery systems starting in 2026. This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to strengthening regional security and deterrence, especially in these geopolitically challenging times," emphasises Minister of Defence Andris Spruds. The letter of intent was signed by the Deputy State Secretary for Procurement of the Ministry of Defence, Major General Andis Dilans, and the Director of the Swedish National Armaments, Goran Martensson (Goran Martensson). The letter of intent includes a commitment to move towards the creation of a joint "Archer" 6x6 wheeled artillery unit. The letter of intent also commits the parties to implement joint training of Latvian and Swedish personnel, which may be agreed upon later by the armed forces of both countries. In addition, in the signed document, the Swedish armed forces commit to provide leasing of the systems until the delivery of the new equipment. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A. Spruds: Baltic States and the United States Shared Security and Defense Goals Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Defence 07/28/2025 - 11:49 In Latvia Information prepared by Media Relations Section This week in Washington, U.S., Minister of Defense of Republic of Latvia Andris Spruds during a working visit met with U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. During the talks between officials, the United States expressed appreciation for the Baltic States' targeted defense investments, as well as emphasized the close political and military cooperation that significantly strengthens NATO's collective security and deterrence capabilities in the region. "Latvia's and the United States' cooperation in the field of defense and security is close, strategic, and long-term. We highly value the U.S. presence and leadership in the region, which makes a significant contribution to our and NATO collective security. Today, we affirmed our readiness to further deepen our partnership, because security is not just a priority - it is a shared responsibility," A. Spruds stated. During the meeting of the Baltic Defense Ministers with the U.S. Secretary of Defense P. Hegseth, the joint commitment to achieving NATO capability goals by investing at least 5 % of the gross domestic product in defense and security. The need to ensure long-term support for the presence of allied forces in the region, as well as to expand military training opportunities at the training grounds of the Baltic States was emphasized. During the conversation, the Minister of Defense A. Spruds suggested increasing the volume of joint military training, as well as encouraging closer cooperation with the Latvian defense industry in the field of drones and other innovative solutions. During the visit, the critical importance of the U.S. presence and leadership in strengthening regional security and implementing the policy of deterrence was repeatedly emphasized. The meeting confirmed the importance of transatlantic unity and reaffirmed that the Baltic States are reliable partners in NATO and are ready to invest not only in their own security, but also in the security of the entire alliance. This was the first official meeting of the Baltic Defense Ministers with the U.S. Secretary of Defense, who was confirmed in office on January 25 of this year. Cooperation with the United States is one of the priorities of Latvia's defense policy in bilateral relations. Since 2014, the United States Armed Forces have been stationed in the Baltic States on a rotational basis as part of the Atlantic Resolve training operation, demonstrating the United States' continued contribution to the collective security of NATO member states and promoting peace and stability in the Baltic States and Poland. In recent years, military cooperation between Latvia and the United States has increased, including large-scale purchases of military equipment. In December 2023, Latvia and the United States announced the conclusion of a contract for the purchase of Naval Strike Missile anti-ship missile systems manufactured by the US company Raytheon and the Norwegian company Kongsberg for a value of 105 million US dollars. Latvia has also signed a contract with the US government for the purchase of six HIMARS high-mobility artillery missile systems manufactured by Lockheed Martin. It is planned that the Latvian National Armed Forces could receive this armament starting in 2027. The United States is a long-standing strategic partner and ally of Latvia, playing a significant role in strengthening Latvia's security. The relationship between the two countries is based on shared values and a common understanding of democracy. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Aboul Gheit participates in dialogue session at International Conference on Implementation of Two-State Solution, asserts: Israel's belief that normalisation can be achieved without ending occupation is an illusion League of Arab States Date: 28/07/2025 The High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, held in New York from 28 to 30 July, has officially commenced. Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, participated in a dialogue session to present the outcomes of the conference's working groups. Alongside Ms. Dubravka Suica, European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, he presented the final results of the Eighth Working Group, focused on "Peace Day Efforts," which is co-chaired by the League of Arab States and the European Union. Gamal Roshdy, the official spokesperson for the Secretary-General, stated that during his remarks, Mr. Aboul Gheit highlighted the constructive commitments and contributions made by various countries, international and regional organisations, and civil society institutions within the framework of the "Peace Day Efforts". He also noted the "Peace Supporting Package" sponsored by the European Union, which could be extended to the Palestinians, the Israelis, and the region as a whole, contingent upon the implementation of the two-state solution and the establishment of an independent, sovereign, and viable Palestinian state. He said that the essence of this vision was articulated 23 years ago through the Arab Peace Initiative, which has yet to receive any response from Israel. Mr. Aboul Gheit stressed that there can be no lasting regional peace or genuine coexistence without ending the Israeli occupation and settlement of Palestinian territories along the 1967 borders, including East Jerusalem. He further underscored that the belief held by Israel that normalisation and coexistence can be achieved without ending the occupation and reaching peace with the Palestinians is a complete illusion. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The U.S-Lithuanian relations have never been stronger as joint security projects are discussed in Washington Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence 2025-07-28 International cooperation | Security and defense policy Minister of National Defence Dovile Sakaliene with Latvian and Estonian colleagues had a meeting with Secretary of Defense of the United States Pete Hegseth in Washington. They addressed the shared security priorities of significance to the Baltic states and the U.S. alike. U.S. Secretary of Defence thanked the Baltics for the friendship, support and respect to the U.S. troops, as well as their leadership which stands as a role model for the whole Europe. "The U.S. remains the axis of the transatlantic security while, however, highlighting that Alliance-wide burden-sharing is required in support of this goal. U.S. Secretary of Defence appreciates Lithuania's effort and contribution to their own security and call them exemplary Allies. We particularly appreciate the assurance there would be no headlong decisions concerning the U.S. force presence in our region. Our arguments in favor of importance of the U.S. troop presence in the region are heard," said Minister Dovile Sakaliene. According to Minister of National Defence, the importance of deterrence against the russian aggression was highlighted at the meeting. The U.S. side underscored accelerated provision of arms to the Allies as one of the main priorities. Also, defence spending, training and exercises, arms acquisitions, defence industry development and joint production priorities were also emphasized. U.S. Secretary of Defense noted that the relations between Lithuania and the United States have never been stronger. Lithuania's efforts to modernize and invest in new military capabilities were recognized as vital in ensuring deterrence against potential threats. "We can see the importance the U.S. attaches to having not just territories for conducting training but also the possibility to conduct specific types of training, including land, air forces, UAVs and electronic warfare maneuvers. This one again highlights the importance of having one more training area in Lithuania and the critical factor it will become," D. Sakaliene underscored. Lithuania has invested over USD 2 billion in U.S-manufactured weaponry so far. U.S. products currently comprise over 20% of the total of Lithuania's defence acquisitions. Strengthening of the defence industry is a vision shared by Lithuania and the United Stated. Lithuania invites U.S. companies to invest in Lithuania and offers co-production opportunities, "green corridors" and tax exemptions. Lithuania has been the host of a U.S. battalion and an artillery unit stationed on a persistent basis since 2019. Lithuania plans inaugurating new infrastructure and training basis for U.S. troops as soon as this fall. Lithuania has invested over USD 200 million to that end. Minister also endorsed the decision of President Donald J. Trump to supply Ukraine with U.S.-made weaponry paid for by NATO Allies. Lithuania proposes to contribute to provision of the Patriot system to Ukraine with up to EUR 30 million. The U.S. side expressed appreciation for organizing the rescue operation in Pabrade and the exceptional support of the public. It was said to had deeply impressed the Americans at home. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Spanish Air and Space Force Deploys for first time to Iceland for NATO Air Policing Mission NATO Allied Air Command Jul 28 2025 RAMSTEIN, Germany -- The Spanish Air and Space Force has deployed six EF/A-18M Hornet fighter jets to Keflavik Air Base, Iceland, in support of NATO's air policing mission. This deployment marks a significant milestone as it is the first time Spain has stationed to Iceland for this mission and bolsters the Alliance's commitment to collective defense and regional security. The Spanish detachment will defend for the upcoming weeks NATO airspace in the Arctic Region and provide Airborne Surveillance and Interception Capabilities to meet Iceland's Peacetime Preparedness Needs (ASIC IPPN). The Spanish Hornets, supported during the ferry flight by a French A330 tanker, recently landed in Keflavik Air Base under NATO's integrated Air Policing framework to grant quick reaction alert (QRA). "We are fully committed to NATO's Air Policing mission," said Lieutenant Colonel Ichaso. "We are pleased to be in Iceland for the first time, and we stand ready to secure the skies and ensure a credible deterrence posture" he added. The detachment comprises six E/F-18M Hornet fighters, tactical support personnel, and logistical assets. They will conduct routine QRA intercepts, airspace surveillance and identification flights, as well as training sorties with multinational partners. The ASIC IPPN mission also comes alongside with the Spanish simultaneous deployment in Lithuania, underscoring Spain's steadfast commitment to NATO Air Policing. Since 2008, Allies have conducted air surveillance missions over Iceland as part of NATO's commitment to Iceland's security and defense, which preserves the security of Allied skies. This is a collective task that involves the continuous presence of fighter aircraft and crews, ready to react quickly to possible airspace violations. Story by Allied Air Command Public Affairs Office NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NORAD and U.S. Northern Command to conduct Arctic Edge 2025 U.S. Northern Command Press Release | July 28, 2025 U.S. Northern Command Public Affairs PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) will conduct ARCTIC EDGE 2025, a joint and combined multi-domain Field Training Exercise (FTX) in various locations throughout Alaska from Aug. 1-31, 2025. Municipalities closest to the designated military exercise operating areas include Anchorage, Cold Bay, Delta Junction, Fairbanks, Kotzebue, and Nome. This exercise will include NORAD and USNORTHCOM forces from Air Forces Northern, Army North, Naval Forces Northern, Marine Forces Northern, Special Operations Forces North, Alaska NORAD Region, Alaska Command, and the Continental U.S. NORAD Region. AE25 also includes participation from UK, Denmark, and interagency partners including the Alaska National Guard, FBI, U.S. Coast Guard, NOAA, Alaska State and local law enforcement, and Alaska Native communities. AE25 is designed to improve readiness, demonstrate capabilities, and enhance Ally and Joint Force interoperability in the Arctic. Key exercise objectives include executing all-domain command-and-control relationships, roles, and responsibilities in support of Homeland Defense tasks in the Arctic region; opening and setting the Alaska Theater of Operations to include a port opening at Port Mackenzie; demonstrating multi-domain awareness to detect, track, and engage advanced cruise missile threats in the northern approaches; and conducting Joint and Service-level experimentation and technology demonstration in the Arctic. ARCTIC EDGE is an annual defense exercise designed to demonstrate engaged forces that are postured and ready to assure, deter, and defend North America in an increasingly complex Arctic security environment. -30- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NZ Army combat-ready infantry platoon deploys to the Republic of Korea New Zealand Defence Force A New Zealand Army infantry platoon of 35 soldiers has deployed to the Republic of Korea to undertake training and activities with Korean and United States forces. 28 July, 2025 The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has a long-standing commitment to supporting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and has been deploying personnel to the United Nations Command (UNC) and its Military Armistice Commission since 1998. Now, for the first time, the NZDF is deploying a combat-ready infantry platoon to work with units from the Republic of Korea Armed Forces and US Army. A second deployment is planned for next year. The platoon will be the first NZ Army organisation to train at the world-class Korea Combat Training Centre, providing the Kiwi soldiers with another unique aspect to their deployment. Over the next 90 days, they will undertake a range of infantry training activities with their South Korean and US counterparts. Land Component Commander Brigadier Jason Dyhrberg said the soldiers would develop new skills while honing others. This was a great opportunity to gain valuable experience alongside Republic of Korea and US personnel and have access to world class-combat training facilities, he said, "After three months, our troops will be more familiar with their counterparts' techniques and tactics and be better able to readily integrate into a coalition warfighting environment," Brigadier Dyhrberg said. "At the conclusion of their time on the Korean Peninsula, they will have been tested across a range of challenging scenarios and activities and be deemed combat ready under both the South Korean and US systems. "We know the NZ Army produces world-class soldiers and officers. This deployment presents another great opportunity to showcase our people, to learn new skills and to develop greater levels of combat readiness alongside key international partners. I have no doubt that they will do us proud." The New Zealand Defence Attache to Korea, Colonel Rob Loftus, said the aim of the deployment was to foster cooperation and understanding between the three forces at the platoon level. "This will provide our soldiers with a fantastic training opportunity to exercise with our military partners on the peninsula. They'll build relationships while putting themselves to the test. "The platoon will also participate in several cultural and commemorative activities celebrating the 75th year anniversary of the United Nations Command, and Korean War battle anniversaries." UNC Deputy Commander Canadian Army Lieutenant General Derek Macaulay said that as the UNC celebrated its 75th anniversary, it was honoured to welcome the NZ Army infantry unit. "The platoon's presence here reflects New Zealand's steadfast commitment to UNC and to the enduring peace and stability of the Korean Peninsula. For over seven decades New Zealand has stood firm in support of the shared values we defend together.'' The latest deployment builds on the legacy started when New Zealand contributed both naval and ground forces in support of UNC during the Korean War in the early 1950s. More than 6000 New Zealanders served. The platoon will remain on the Korean Peninsula until the end of October. Further joint training and mission rehearsal activities are being planned for 2026. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Cambodia-Thailand border clashes enter 5th day People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 14:10, July 28, 2025 PHNOM PENH/BANGKOK, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Armed clashes between Cambodian and Thai soldiers over disputed border areas have entered the fifth day, both sides said on Monday. Cambodian Defense Ministry's Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said the Thai side opened fire first earlier in the morning, while the Thai military said Cambodian attacks continued throughout the night. "Despite a special meeting between the heads of the two governments will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia today to negotiate for a ceasefire, at 03:10 a.m. local time, the Thai side still continued to open fire first on Cambodia in the disputed border areas until 05:07 a.m.," Socheata said. She said that so far, the number of Cambodian evacuees from border provinces has risen to 39,828 families with about 134,707 people. She added that a total of 600 schools have been closed, affecting around 150,000 students and 6,000 teachers. Meanwhile, she said approximately 400,000 Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand have returned home so far. Thai military-affiliated accounts on Monday posted on social media that the clashes in Thailand-Cambodia border areas had entered the fifth day, with Cambodian forces yet to cease fire. From 23:00 local time on Sunday until dawn, Thai soldiers did not rest throughout the night. As of Sunday, the border clashes had resulted in the deaths of 14 Thai civilians and eight soldiers, with an additional 37 civilians sustaining varying degrees of injuries. And a total of 139,646 people had been evacuated from the border risk areas, as released by the Thai government on Sunday. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas says Trump's remarks "inconsistent" with Gaza talks process People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 10:49, July 28, 2025 GAZA, July 26 (Xinhua) -- A senior Hamas official said Saturday that recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump were "inconsistent" with the process of the indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel over Gaza ceasefire and hostage release. "We are surprised by the statements issued by President Trump, which contradict the mediators' assessment of the movement's position and are inconsistent with the negotiations process," Izzat al-Rishq, a senior Hamas official, said in a press statement. Al-Rishq said the negotiations, held in the Qatari capital Doha, have witnessed "real progress" in recent days, claiming that Qatar and Egypt, as mediators, had expressed appreciation for Hamas' "serious and constructive position" in the talks. However, the U.S. administration's stance overlooks the key obstacle to progress: the Israeli government, said Al-Rishq. The Hamas official reiterated that the movement is seeking a comprehensive agreement that would end hostilities and alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. "We call on the U.S. administration to stop exonerating the occupation and providing it with cover to continue its war of extermination and starvation against more than two million people in the Gaza Strip," he said. Israel and Hamas had held weeks of indirect negotiations in Doha, but no breakthrough has been announced. Israel on Thursday recalled its negotiating team from Doha for consultations after receiving Hamas's response to a new ceasefire proposal delivered by the mediators. Trump on Friday made public comments holding Hamas responsible for stalling the negotiations. "Hamas didn't really want to make a deal. I think they want to die," Trump told reporters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Marcos reiterates commitment to boost AFP, PNP capabilities Philippine News Agency By Priam Nepomuceno July 28, 2025, 6:24 pm MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday reiterated his administration's commitment to strengthening the defensive capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). In his fourth State of the Nation Address delivered before a joint session of Congress at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City, Marcos also vowed to continue to improve and modernize the Philippine National Police (PNP). "Patuloy tayo sa pagpapatibay ng ating kapulisan at Sandatahang Lakas. Ang mga armamento, sasakyang pandigma, at sandata ng ating kapulisan at Sandatahang Lakas ay patuloy na nadaragdagan, angkop sa layuning at komprehensibong pagtatanggol ng ating mga kapuluan (We will continue beefing our police and armed forces. There will be more and improved armaments, combat vehicles, weapons to make them more capable of comprehensively defending our islands)," Marcos said. The President likewise said thousands of insurgents who used to fight the government have already surrendered to authorities and rejoined the mainstream society to be reunited with their loved ones. With the help of the private sector, Marcos said the communities of these former insurgents are now being developed. "Naglalatag na tayo ng mga daan, patubig, at marangal na hanapbuhay (We have been constructing roads, irrigations and decent sources of livelihood for these communities)," Marcos said. Aside from livelihood programs, the President said the government had already constructed health stations, classrooms, water systems, and street lights that already benefited some 13 million Filipinos who have been saved or removed from conflict. Marcos noted that the country has no more guerrilla groups and that the government will see to it that none will be formed again. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel, US withdrew from ceasefire talks to 'burn time' and escalate genocide: Hamas leader Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 4:32 PM The leader of the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has strongly condemned Israel and the United States for withdrawing from ceasefire negotiations despite "clear progress" that had been made in the talks. In a televised speech on Sunday, Khalil al-Hayya said the US and Israel are "wasting time" to intentionally hinder talks and facilitate the continued extermination of Palestinians in Gaza. Al-Hayya said Hamas had demonstrated "every possible flexibility" in negotiations since the Israeli war began 22 months ago, adding that the latest round of talks witnessed "clear progress" and "significant agreement," particularly on the Israeli troop withdrawal, prisoner exchanges, and aid delivery. Noting that mediators conveyed to the Palestinian team "positive responses" from Israel, the key Hamas figure said, "but we were surprised to find that the occupation withdrew from the negotiations, and that the US President's envoy to the Middle East, [Steve] Witkoff, was in league with it." Al-Hayya said Hamas strongly rejects Israel's insistence on maintaining its aid distribution mechanism in Gaza, which has been condemned by the United Nations as a "death trap." The US-Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) began operations in May, about two months after Israel blocked the flow of aid into Gaza, triggering worldwide condemnation for the weaponization of food in the strip. On Tuesday, the UN human rights office said Israeli forces have killed more than 1,000 Palestinian aid seekers in Gaza since May, mostly near sites run by the GHF, which bypasses a UN-led aid system. Al-Hayya said there is "no point in continuing negotiations" as Palestinians are starving in Gaza. He demanded the "immediate and dignified entry of food and medicine" as a prerequisite for any further negotiations, refusing to let Palestinian suffering be used for "occupation's negotiating tricks." On Friday, a senior Hamas official told CNN that two of the remaining sticking points in Gaza ceasefire talks are the exchange of prisoners and the schedule for Israel's withdrawal from the Strip. According to the official, Hamas had submitted two proposals on the issue shortly before the US and Israel pulled their delegates out of talks on Thursday, blaming the resistance movement for the failure to reach an agreement. Amid growing international criticism of Israel regarding mass starvation in Gaza, the occupying regime on Sunday claimed that it will stop its attack for 10 hours a day in parts of Gaza. Meanwhile, Ali Baraka, a senior Hamas official, stressed that Israel was continuing its offensive, dismissing the announcement as an attempt to deceive the international public opinion. "What is happening isn't a humanitarian truce," Baraka said, noting that Israeli forces killed and wounded many Palestinian aid seekers in several areas in the Gaza Strip. Baraka stated that Israel continues to starve more than two million civilians in Gaza. He also urged the international community, the United Nations, and other human rights organizations to take immediate action to stop Israel's massacres, end the siege imposed on Gaza, urgently and permanently open the land crossings, and allow the unconditional entry of aid into the Strip. The official slammed global silence on Israeli atrocities, saying it amounts to "tacit complicity in them," warning that "history will not be merciful to those who collude or watch the Palestinians' suffering, including killing and starvation." Israel's bloody onslaught on Gaza has so far killed at least 59,921 Palestinians, mostly women and children. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Thailand, Cambodia announce ceasefire in deadly border clash Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 9:38 AM Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an unconditional ceasefire, set to take effect at midnight local time Monday night, following days of intense fighting along their shared border. The announcement was made by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who hosted emergency peace talks in Putrajaya under his capacity as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). "Both Cambodia and Thailand reached a common understanding as follows: One, an immediate and unconditional ceasefire with effect from midnight on 28th July 2025," Anwar told reporters following the negotiations. The agreement comes after five days of deadly clashes triggered by a landmine explosion that injured five Thai soldiers last Thursday. At least 35 people have been killed and more than 260,000 displaced on both sides of the border. Thai acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Monday for the high-level discussions. The talks were held at Anwar's official residence in Malaysia's administrative capital. Tensions have escalated sharply in recent days, with both nations trading accusations over the cause of the violence. Thailand's military warned that Cambodia was preparing for a large-scale operation, while Cambodia's defense ministry accused Thailand of invading its territory with heavy weapons and large troop deployments. Phumtham expressed skepticism about Cambodia's intentions, urging their negotiators to "demonstrate genuine intent" during the peace process. Meanwhile, Cambodian officials have claimed it is Thailand that has acted aggressively. The conflict has drawn concern from global powers. Representatives from both the United States and China attended the talks in Malaysia and have called for calm and de-escalation. China's Foreign Ministry welcomed the ceasefire, urging both sides to "remain calm and exercise restraint." In response to the fighting, Thailand has closed all border crossings with Cambodia, except for those allowing migrant workers to return home. Both countries have also recalled their ambassadors. The latest violence is the most severe since a previous border conflict between the two nations, which lasted from 2008 to 2011 and was also rooted in historical territorial disputes stemming from colonial-era demarcations made by French administrators in 1907. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas: Trump repeats Israel narrative, lies and misleads public Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 3:12 AM A senior Hamas official has condemned US President Donald Trump's remarks about the absence of famine in Gaza. Izzat al-Rishq stated on Sunday evening that Trump's denial of famine in Gaza is a blatant repetition of Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu's narrative and lies. "We are surprised by the statements issued by President Trump, which contradict the mediators' assessment of the movement's position and are inconsistent with the negotiations process," Izzat al-Rishq said in a press statement. Al-Rishq condemned Trump's assertions, emphasizing that they "deny the famine despite the testimony of the United Nations and international organizations, and the deaths of dozens of children from starvation due to the siege and the prevention of food and medicine entry." He further claimed that Trump's statements inadvertently give the Israeli regime additional justification to pursue its alleged campaign of extermination and starvation against the Palestinian population. "We call on the US administration to stop exonerating the occupation and providing it with cover to continue its war of extermination and starvation against more than two million people in the Gaza Strip," he added. Additionally, al-Rishq rejected US claims that Hamas is misappropriating humanitarian aid, labeling them as unfounded and lacking credible evidence. He said Israel is inciting chaos in Gaza by intentionally targeting police officers who are tasked with protecting aid convoys. Al-Rishq called on the US government to refrain from perpetuating Israeli narratives and to accept its moral and humanitarian responsibilities concerning the alleged genocide occurring in Gaza. On Friday, Trump attributed the stalling of negotiations to Hamas, stating, "Hamas didn't really want to make a deal. I think they want to die." The Government Media Office of Gaza has issued warnings about an unprecedented humanitarian disaster, noting that over 100,000 children, including 40,000 infants, are at risk of life-threatening hunger due to the blockade. The death toll related to starvation and malnutrition has reached 122, with 83 of those being children, and it is expected to rise sharply as the blockade continues. Meanwhile, United Nations agencies and humanitarian organizations have sounded alarms over dwindling supplies of therapeutic food for malnourished children, endangering thousands of vulnerable lives. The Palestinian NGO Network (PNGO) has declared that Gaza is amid a full-scale famine, with 91% of the population grappling with severe food insecurity amid Israel's prolonged and destructive military campaign against Palestinians. Israel is accused of deliberately starving two million people by bombing bakeries, obstructing food supplies, and cutting off water access. PNGO stated, "This is not merely a crisis; it's genocide." According to PNGO reports, 91% of Gaza's population faces critical food insecurity, with 345,000 individuals experiencing Phase 5 faminethe most severe level. An alarming 60,000 children urgently require treatment for malnutrition, and 92% of children under two years old, along with breastfeeding mothers, are not receiving adequate nutrition, which could cause irreversible damage to an entire generation. "This is not a natural catastrophe; it's a deliberate policy of starvation," PNGO concluded. The Israeli regime's genocidal war on Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023, has killed at least 59,733 Palestinians, injured another 144,477 individuals, and displaced almost 2.2 million people. Israel's blockade of free movement has led to dire shortages of food, clean water, and medical resources. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'It is genocide': Israeli rights groups detail deliberate targeting of Palestinians in Gaza Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 6:56 PM Two leading Israeli human rights organizations, B'Tselem and Physicians for Human Rights (PHR), have affirmed that Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, and that the US and Europe are complicit. The two groups, in reports published on Monday, said the Israeli regime has targeted civilians in Gaza only due to their identity as Palestinians since the beginning of the war in October 2023, inflicting severe and in some cases irreparable damage on Palestinian society. The reports detailed crimes such as the killing of tens of thousands of women, children, and elderly people, mass forced displacement and starvation, and the destruction of homes and civilian infrastructure, including healthcare, education, and other essential services. "What we see is a clear, intentional attack on civilians in order to destroy a group," said Yuli Novak, the director of B'Tselem. Calling for urgent action, Novak said, "I think every human being has to ask himself: what do you do in the face of genocide?" As the United Nations' top court, the International Court of Justice, has yet to rule on whether genocide occurred, Novak stressed the need to recognize that a genocide is underway. "Genocide is not just a legal crime. It's a social and political phenomenon." The PHR report also detailed a chronological account of the Israeli targeting of Gaza's health system. The group's director, Guy Shalev, said the destruction of the healthcare system alone makes the war genocidal under Article 2c of the Genocide Convention, which defines genocide as the deliberate infliction of conditions of life calculated to destroy a group "in whole or part". While the report details other genocidal aspects of Israel's war, Shalev said, "You don't have to have all five articles of the genocide convention to be fulfilled in order for something to be genocide." Many international and Palestinian groups have already termed the war genocidal, but the reports from two of Israel's prominent human rights organizations, which have for decades documented systemic abuses, are likely to add to pressure for action. Both B'Tselem and PHR stressed that Israel's western allies are complicit in the genocide in Gaza, with Novak emphasizing that "it couldn't happen without the support of the western world." "Any leader that is not doing whatever they can to stop it is part of this horror," she said. Meanwhile, the director of PHR called on the US and European countries to shoulder their legal responsibility and take stronger action. "Every tool in the toolbox should be used. This is not what we think, this is what the genocide convention calls for," Shalev said. As genocidal intent is a key element to classify a crime as genocide under international law, PHR and B'Tselem cited statements from Israeli politicians and military leaders, and a chronology of well-documented impacts on civilians after nearly two years of war is proof of that intent. The PHR report details how "genocidal intent may be inferred from the pattern of conduct", citing legal precedent from the international criminal tribunal for Rwanda. "We don't need to guess what Israel is doing and what the Israeli army is doing, because from the first day of this attack, Israeli leaders, the highest leadership, political leadership, including the prime minister, the minister of defense, the president of Israel, said exactly that," Novak said. "They talked about human animals. They talked about the fact that there are no civilians in Gaza or that there is an entire nation responsible for 7 October." "If the leadership of Israel, whether the army leadership and the political leadership, knows about the consequences of this policy and keeps going, it is very clear that it is intentional." B'Tselem warned that the genocidal campaign in Gaza may spill over into the West Bank, which has seen intensified deadly Israeli attacks since October 7, 2023, with almost 1,000 Palestinians killed and more than 40,000 displaced from cities, including Jenin and Tulkarem. "The Israeli regime now has a new tool that they didn't use before - genocide. And the fact that this tool or this policy used in Gaza is not yet [deployed] in other areas is not something that we can count on for long," Novak said. "What we worry about and want to warn about is the fact that any small trigger might make the genocide spill over from Gaza into the West Bank." The regime's bloody onslaught on Gaza has so far killed at least 59,921 Palestinians, mostly women and children. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Truce takes effect in Cambodia, Thailand border dispute The deal to end five days of deadly fighting came at a meeting hosted by Malaysia and amid pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump. By RFA staff 2025.07.28 BANGKOK, Thailand -- A ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia came into effect early Tuesday, aimed to end five days of fierce fighting in a disputed border area that has killed at least 35 people and displaced more than 200,000 others. The truce was scheduled to start at midnight local time. A source told RFA that fierce gunfights heard near the Ta Muan Thom and Ta Kwai temples stopped at midnight. An Agence France-Presse reporter in the Cambodian city of Samraong, which sits 20 kilometers from the border, said the steady stream of artillery strikes heard all day Monday stopped in the 30 minutes leading to midnight. The ceasefire deal came after negotiations on Monday hosted by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia, the current chair of the ASEAN regional bloc. There was pressure for a deal from outside the region: U.S. President Donald Trump warned over the weekend that the border conflict could stall U.S. trade deals with both countries. As part of the ceasefire, Cambodian and Thai military commanders will kick off talks on Tuesday to reduce tensions. The deal also sets an Aug. 4 meeting for the General Border Committee hosted by Cambodia and requires the foreign and defense ministers of Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia to develop mechanisms to implement and monitor the truce. At a press conference in Putrajaya, Malaysia, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Vejjayachai of Thailand shook hands and hailed the outcome. "Today we have a very good meeting and very good results ... that hope to stop immediately the fighting that has caused many lives lost, injuries, and also caused the displacement of people," said Hun Manet, who offered thanks to Trump and China, which had also urged an end to hostilities and offered its assistance. Phumtham said the deal would be "carried out successfully in good faith by both sides." Thailand has said nine of its soldiers and 14 civilians have been killed. Cambodia has confirmed eight civilian and five military deaths, according to Agence France-Presse. Images from makeshift evacuation centers on both sides of the border showed crowds of displaced residents queueing for food and sleeping in tents or temporary shelters. Long-simmering tensions between the two countries over their shared border spiked after a Cambodian soldier was killed in a disputed area on May 28. Weeks of accusations and political jousting followed, culminating in Thailand expelling the Cambodian ambassador and recalling its own envoy on July 23, then armed clashes erupting on July 24. Includes reporting by RFA Khmer and Pimuk Rakkanam for RFA, as well as Agence France-Presse, The Associated Press, and Reuters. Updated to reflect the beginning of the ceasefire and to add reporting about the sounds of combat ending. Copyright 1998-2025, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content July not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Capitulation' Or Compromise? EU Faces Backlash Over US Trade Deal By Rikard Jozwiak July 28, 2025 A US-EU trade war appears to have been avoided, the European Union took a real hit, but the transatlantic relationship will remain unpredictable. Those are the main takeaways after Brussels and Washington shook hands on a trade framework agreement in Scotland on July 27. It's fair to say that there is relief but no real celebration after the deal between the world's two largest economies, a relationship that generates trade worth $1.7 trillion per year. The sweeping US tariffs of 30% on all EU products that were set to take effect on August 1 are off the table, as is Brussels' 93-billion-euro retaliatory package that was set to be delivered a week later. What emerged instead is a deal seemingly heavily tilting in favor of the United States. Instead of 30% tariffs, Brussels accepted 15% on most goods - from cars to semiconductors and pharmaceuticals. Steel and aluminum will continue to be levied at 50% even though a quota system will be put in place that means that trade in some steel and aluminum products can go below the set tariff. On top of that, Trump also secured an agreement that the EU will purchase 750 billion USD worth of American energy, notably LNG in the next three years, and invest 600 billion USD into the US on top of the purchases of energy products. With the EU committed to completely phasing out Russian energy imports by the end of 2027, the move to buy more LNG makes sense from an EU perspective even though it will also seek other alternatives from the Middle East, North Africa and Norway. The United States, on the other hand, offered few, if any, concessions in return, prompting cries in European countries of "capitulation" and "submission." Earlier this month the bloc was close to securing an agreement for a 10% baseline tariff, still a hike compared to the average 4.8% from before US President Donald Trump's second term. The 30% tariff curveball by the White House on July 12 did, however, upend any chance for a rapid and more advantageous deal for Brussels An ashen-faced European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said after the direct negotiations in Scotland with Trump that the deal "delivers stability and predictability." An EU diplomat told RFE/RL that von der Leyen simply did the "best of a terrible situation, as she was dealing with someone willing to break the entire China shop." In the end, Trump knew he had the upper hand and that Brussels wasn't too keen to strike back. A European official with knowledge of the talks noted that Washington understood fully well that the bloc's Eastern flank countries believed that annoying Washington would have "serious consequences", even though Trump reportedly never threatened to withdraw US troops from the region. He was also aware that the Irish wanted to safeguard pharmaceutical exports, the French the alcohol trade and the Germans secure the same access to the American market for its cars as the Japanese were offered in a Washington-Tokyo trade deal a few days earlier. "He simply understood our weaknesses," as the official put it. On paper, it now looks that the United States has Europe exactly where it wants it -- not only on trade. At the NATO summit in The Hague earlier this year, European allies and Canada committed to ramp up defense spending to 5% by 2034 and then came up with an agreement that the same countries will buy American arms to supply to Ukraine. But take a closer look at all these deals and you find loopholes. On the defense spending, only 3.5% is supposed to go on "hard" military spending and many countries have already admitted that they will struggle to reach it. The idea of buying American to send to Ukraine is hardly a new one and while there is willingness to do this, the issue here is rather one of limited Western production capacity for now, combined with supply chains being overstretched already. On the trade deal there are also considerable carve-outs and exemptions. It is worth remembering that this is a framework agreement with the nitty-gritty but crucial details being worked out in the weeks to come. Washington and Brussels have already agreed zero tariffs on their respective aircraft, semiconductors, critical raw materials as well as some chemicals and agricultural products. Expect more products to be added to this list - especially after intensified lobbying from both sides of the Atlantic in the coming weeks. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/eu-us-trade- deal-tariff/33485957.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Could Iceland Join The EU? Reykjavik Eyes Accession Talks As Security, Trade Tensions Mount By Rikard Jozwiak July 28, 2025 When predicting which country would be the next to join the European Union, the smart money seems to be on Montenegro given that it has been negotiating for years and has advanced the furthest of all candidates. Others point to Albania, which is currently making great strides toward Brussels as the next member. There are also some who think that Moldova -- a reform-oriented and ambitious country in the bloc's eastern neighborhood -- stands a decent chance of becoming EU member state number 28 in the coming year. But the right answer may actually be Iceland. The Trump administration's overtures to annex the Danish territory of Greenland and the prospect of a trade war between its security provider, the United States, and its biggest trading partner, the European Union, have created unease on the North Atlantic island. The current Icelandic government, which came to power last year, has announced that a referendum will be held before 2027 on resuming accession talks with Brussels. Polls suggest a majority would support restarting talks. The country has been here before. It was badly hit by the 2008 global financial crisis, when three of its major banks collapsed. EU membership -- and especially joining the eurozone -- was seen as a way out of the crisis, and negotiations with the bloc began in 2010. Talks were suspended three years later by a newly elected right-wing government. By then, the eurozone was itself engulfed in the same financial crisis, so joining the club and adopting its ailing common currency was no longer seen as a panacea. In those three years of accession talks, Reykjavik opened most of the 33 accession chapters and closed 11. By comparison, the current EU accession frontrunner, Montenegro, has managed to close a mere seven chapters in more than a decade of talks. 'A Sovereign Decision' It's not for nothing that EU officials believe that Iceland could wrap up the entire process in a couple of years if it was to resume its application -- which according to the European Commission still remains valid. It helps, of course, that the country is part of the European Economic Area (EEA), which means that it -- together with other EEA members Norway and Liechtenstein -- is already applying the EU's internal market rules. When European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited the island last week, she was quick to point out that the issue of future EU membership is "a sovereign decision that the people take here. So, it's not a topic for me to comment on." But, she added, "Iceland is familiar and integrated into the single market, we share values, we know each other very well, we are like-minded -- all this is an asset." Speaking under the condition of anonymity, a European diplomat familiar with the topic was even more forthright. "It would be good if a Western European country would join the EU, especially after Brexit," they said. "It would show that the club truly is attractive." Integration would prove seamless, given that Iceland is richer than the EU average and -- with a population of 300,000 -- would be the smallest member state if it joined. While Brussels officially is trying to stay out of the Icelandic debate on membership, it is quietly doing everything to edge it closer. During her visit, von der Leyen promised a trade review to potentially upgrade the EEA agreement. She also struck a deal to protect critical infrastructure that is essential for Iceland, such as subsea cables, and started negotiations on a new security and defense partnership agreement, which would allow closer cooperation on cyber and hybrid threats. The partnership, expected to be ready by year's end, is especially important for Iceland, which is acutely aware of the need for security cooperation, particularly as both Russia and China are becoming more active in the Arctic region. The United States has also rattled the country recently with talk of taking over Greenland, sparking debate there about rejoining the European Union after leaving the European Communities -- a precursor of today's EU -- back in 1985. While Washington hasn't made similar claims on Iceland, there is a certain nervousness, as the US provides for the country's defense on behalf of NATO via a bilateral agreement signed in 1951. To this day, Iceland is the only NATO member without its own army and there are no imminent plans to create one. In 2006, the United States announced it would continue to provide for the island's defense but without forces being permanently stationed there. That policy still stands, and the former US air base in Keflavik remains a hub for NATO exercises. Trade Tension But it is the transatlantic trade tension that is really making Iceland twitchy. Reykjavik wants Brussels to consult them on the EU-US trade talks, but that is not something that EU officials can promise without full membership. And it is trade in general that could spark conflict during eventual membership negotiations, especially on agriculture and fisheries, which are key industries on the island. Those two items are excluded from the EEA for good reason. There is a fear that the EU's common agriculture policy would kill farming on the island by flooding it with cheap food products from other EU member states. Fishing is even more delicate. Reykjavik claims proudly that its management of fishing stocks is superior to Brussels. And it would be very reluctant to give up its exclusive rights to fishing within its 200-mile economic zone to Danish, Dutch, Irish, Spanish, or French fleets. Then there is commercial whaling, which is still is permitted in Icelandic waters despite the EU's push for a global moratorium. The fact remains that most political parties in the Icelandic parliament are against EU membership. And while polls show that the population is keen to restart talks with Brussels, they are less sure that they actually want to become members. In Brussels, officials remain hopeful but see obstacles for a small yet fiercely independent nation to voluntarily give up some of its sovereignty. "It's a long shot on their side, not ours," one said. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iceland-eu-membership- accession-talks/33483058.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Participates in Meeting of OIC Contact Group for Somalia Saudi Press Agency Monday 03/02/1447 Doha, July 28, 2025, SPA -- Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji participated today in the meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Contact Group for Somalia, held in Doha, Qatar. In his address, Elkhereiji emphasized the importance of mobilizing greater international support to establish the foundations of security, development, and stability for the Somali people. He underscored the need for projects that enhance infrastructure and long-term production in line with the priorities of the Somali government, while highlighting the development of recent natural resource discoveries, representing a historic opportunity for Somalia and the region. He noted that the Kingdom continues to provide relief and humanitarian assistance through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, reflecting its enduring commitment to supporting Somalia and strengthening relief and development efforts to achieve stability and alleviate human suffering. He also reiterated the Kingdom's welcome of the reconciliation agreement between the Federal Republic of Somalia and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, signed in the Republic of Turkiye, noting that this is the first step towards a new beginning based on peace between the two countries. He said that this agreement reflects a sincere desire to overcome tensions and build a future of security, stability, and shared development for the peoples of the two countries and the entire organization. Elkhereiji affirmed the Kingdom's strong condemnation of the attacks aimed at undermining stability and national unity, emphasizing the need to intensify collective efforts to combat and prevent extremism in all its forms, which not only threaten state security but also undermine the foundations of coexistence and sustainable development. He stated that the Kingdom commends the Federal Republic of Somalia for securing non-permanent membership in the UN Security Council for the 2025-2026 term, noting that this represents an important diplomatic milestone in Somalia's journey and reflects the international community's confidence in its growing role in promoting international peace and security. -- SPA 15:39 Local Time 12:39 GMT 0036 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Houthis Declare 'New Phase': All Ships Linked to Israeli Ports Targeted Sputnik News 20250728 The Shiite military-political movement Ansar Allah (Houthis), which rules northern Yemen, will attack ships of any company interacting with Israeli ports, regardless of the ships' destinations and which country they belong to, Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree said. "The Yemeni Armed Forces warn all companies to cease their dealings with Israeli enemy ports starting from the moment this statement is announced. Otherwise, their ships, regardless of their destination, will be targeted anywhere that can be reached or within the reach of our missiles and drones," Saree said in a statement. According to the spokesman, these measures by the Houthis represent "the fourth phase of the naval blockade against the enemy" against the backdrop of the situation in the Gaza Strip. He stressed that the movement would attack ships regardless of which country they belonged to. The Houthi movement, controlling most of Yemen's Red Sea coast, has previously declared its support for Palestine and its intention to attack any ships linked to Israel, calling on other countries to recall their crews and not approach them at sea. The movement has also pledged not to interfere with freedom of navigation in the region and not harm the ships of other countries. Some companies have decided to suspend shipping through the Red Sea amid the attacks. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address United States Rejects A Two-State Solution Conference US Department of State Press Statement Tammy Bruce, Department Spokesperson July 28, 2025 This week, the UN will serve as host to an unproductive and ill-timed conference on the two-state solution in New York City. This is a publicity stunt that comes in the middle of delicate diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. Far from promoting peace, the conference will prolong the war, embolden Hamas, and reward its obstruction and undermine real-world efforts to achieve peace. As Secretary Rubio has made clear, this effort is a slap in the face to the victims of October 7th and a reward for terrorism. It keeps hostages trapped in tunnels. The United States will not participate in this insult but will continue to lead real-world efforts to end the fighting and deliver a permanent peace. Our focus remains on serious diplomacy: not stage-managed conferences designed to manufacture the appearance of relevance. President Macron's announcement about recognizing a Palestinian state was welcomed by Hamas. This reflects a pattern of counterproductive gestures that only emboldens Hamas, encourages its obstruction of a ceasefire, and greatly undercuts our diplomatic efforts to end the suffering in Gaza, free the hostages, and move the whole Middle East towards a brighter and more prosperous future. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Deputy Secretary Landau's Meeting with Kyrgyz First Deputy Prime Minister Amangeldiev US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson July 28, 2025 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Tammy Bruce: Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau met today with Kyrgyz First Deputy Prime Minister Daniiar Amangeldiev in Washington. The Deputy Secretary expressed the hope that the United States could deepen the bilateral relationship with the Kyrgyz Republic for the mutual benefit of both countries. The Deputy Secretary and First Deputy Prime Minister Amangeldiev discussed priority areas of engagement, including expanding economic cooperation, strengthening sanctions compliance, and enforcing national immigration laws. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Ceasefire Between Cambodia and Thailand US Department of State Press Statement Marco Rubio, Secretary of State July 28, 2025 The United States applauds the ceasefire declaration between Cambodia and Thailand announced today in Kuala Lumpur. President Trump and I are committed to an immediate cessation of violence and expect the governments of Cambodia and Thailand to fully honor their commitments to end this conflict. We are grateful to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for his leadership and for hosting the ceasefire talks. We urge all parties to follow through on their commitments. The United States will remain committed to and engaged in this U.S.-Malaysia-organized process to end this conflict. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The humanitarian pause in fighting in Gaza is essential, but long overdue. The United Nations must be allowed to save lives, reduce suffering and preserve dignity: UK statement at the UN Two-State Solution conference. Statement by Rt Hon Hamish Falconer MP, Minister for the Middle East, at the UK-Egypt co-chaired Working Group on Humanitarian Action and Reconstruction. From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Hamish Falconer MP Published 28 July 2025 Location: United Nations, New York Delivered on: 28 July 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered) The United Kingdom was honoured to co-chair the Working Group on Humanitarian Action and Reconstruction with our esteemed friends in Egypt, and we are grateful to all those who contributed. Our discussions reflected a shared sense of outrage at the scale of human suffering. The humanitarian pause in fighting is essential, but long overdue. This must be kept in place and lead to a lasting ceasefire that brings the war to an end, allows hostages to be freed and ensures aid can get into Gaza without obstruction. The working group heard a clear message that Israel must uphold international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and stop obstructing aid. It clearly rejected the misuse of aid for military or political ends, and any attempts at demographic or territorial change. The United Nations must be allowed to save lives, reduce suffering and preserve dignity. And there was strong support among the group for UNRWA, which faces a $200 million shortfall. The UK is acting to alleviate suffering. The Foreign Secretary has announced an additional $54 million in humanitarian assistance, including $27 million for UNRWA. We are working with international partners to fund joint aid projects, ensuring that assistance reaches those in the most desperate need. Contributors to the group also affirmed their commitment to secure a better future for Israelis and Palestinians alike. We also want to see meaningful steps towards a viable, independent Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel. Beyond the immediate humanitarian crisis, Gaza's recovery needs will be vast. Getting the right approach will be crucial to ensure a two-state solution remains possible. And so, the UK is mobilising support for the Arab Islamic reconstruction plan, building consensus on the security and governance needed for its implementation. Many in the working group echoed our view and that of President Abbas that Hamas must be removed from governance, disarmed, and renounce violence. We are committed to inclusive governance in Gaza, led by Palestinians, and we will expand technical assistance to the Palestinian Authority to support recovery and reconstruction. Meanwhile, we stand ready to coordinate international donor support and harness the power of the private sector. This includes co-chairing a conference with the Palestinian Authority and Egypt in October on innovative financing. Before concluding, I would like to add that the UK reads the conference's outcome document in a way that is consistent with our own findings on compliance with international humanitarian law. As we look to the future, this is the moment for us to unite around an alternative plan for Gaza and take urgent and tangible steps towards a two-state solution. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address At least nine children killed in horrific attack in DR Congo's Ituri province UNICEF Statement Statement by UNICEF DRC Representative John Agbor 28 July 2025 KINSHASA, 28 July 2025 - "The reported killing of at least nine children in an armed attack during the night of 26-27 July in the town of Komanda in Ituri province is senseless and abhorrent. "UNICEF condemns this onslaught in the strongest possible terms. "Children must never be the targets of an attack. We call for those responsible to be held to account for their actions. Perpetrators must not be allowed to act with impunity. "The uptick in violence between armed groups in Ituri is worsening an already dire humanitarian situation. It is becoming increasingly difficult for UNICEF and partners to reach those most in need - and children, as ever, are bearing the brunt. "We extend our condolence to the families of the victims, and we call for peace for children in Ituri and eastern DRC now." ##### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address While Gaza ceasefire remains elusive, UN readies for conference around Israel-Palestine two-State solution 28 July 2025 - A world in which a sovereign State of Palestine and Israel co-exist peacefully seems a distant prospect, particularly in light of the 7 October 2023 attacks by Hamas on Israel and the subsequent Israeli bombardment of Gaza. A high-level UN conference opening on 28 July will, nevertheless, serve as the latest UN-backed attempt to find a way to end the conflict. "It's not a peace conference," Bob Rae, Canada's Ambassador to the UN, told UN News ahead of the event, mandated by the General Assembly, in which his country will play a leading role. "It's a way of trying to maintain the debate and get beyond the sticking points to the solutions. We hope there'll be some listening, and we hope there'll be some learning on the basis of what we hear." In an address to the Security Council in April, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the process is "at risk of vanishing altogether". Political will to achieve the goal, he said, "feels more distant than ever". However, in an exchange with the press on 5 June, Mr. Guterres also said, "And for those that doubt about the two-State solution, I ask: What is the alternative? Is it a one-State solution in which either the Palestinians are expelled or the Palestinians will be forced to live in their land without rights?" He reminded that it was "the duty of the international community to keep the two-State solution alive and then to materialise the conditions to make it happen". The Canadian ambassador said that while the organisers of the event continue to urge Israel and Palestine to engage with the conference, they understand the difficult situation they both find themselves in. "Many citizens [of Israel] are still being held as hostages by Hamas. They've suffered this tremendous attack, the worst attack on the Jewish population anywhere in the world since 1940. And now we're having to deal with the outcome of that which has been the war in Gaza, which is hugely traumatic for the Palestinians and for many members of the Arab community." Making a difference on the ground The conference, held in the Trusteeship Council at UN Headquarters in New York, was convened as a result of the adoption of a General Assembly Resolution (Resolution ES-10/22) in 2024. In a concept note released ahead of the event, the two nations declared that international consensus on the two-State solution "still enjoys near-universal support" and that it is "clearly the only way to satisfy the legitimate aspirations, in accordance with international law, of both Israelis and Palestinians...and create the conditions for regional peace and stability". In a swipe at the failure of previous efforts to bring about peace, the statement declares that "the aim of this international conference would not be to 'revive' or to 'relaunch' another endless process, but to implement, once and for all, the two-State solution." In a preparatory meeting for the conference held at the UN in May, Anne-Claire Legendre, Middle East and North Africa advisor to French President Emmanuel Macron, said that "the prospects of a Palestinian State must be maintained; irreversible steps and concrete measures for the implementation thereof are necessary" and called for a lasting ceasefire, an immediate influx of humanitarian aid and the release of hostages. Her counterpart, Manal bint Hassan Radwan, head of the Saudi Arabian negotiating team, added that efforts to end fighting and secure the release of hostages and detainees must be "anchored in a credible and irreversible political plan that addresses the root cause of the conflict and offers a real path to peace, dignity and mutual security". "There has to be the basis for a broader political solution. It's not just about saying there's going to be a ceasefire and that will solve the problem. How do we reconstruct Gaza? How do we change the governance of Gaza? How do we approach the West Bank? How do we deal with issues which have long been the source of a lack of agreement between the parties? Let's not forget that there has been one really successful negotiation, which was based on the 1993 Oslo Accords, and since that time, we have not had a lot of substantive agreements. We've got to try to find a way to create a framework for actual discussion." What is the two-State solution? The idea of establishing one nation each for Jewish and Palestinian populations, living alongside each other in peace, predates the UN's founding in 1945. Drafted and redrafted since then, the concept appears in dozens of UN Security Council resolutions, multiple peace talks and in the General Assembly's recently resumed tenth emergency special session. In 1947, Great Britain relinquished its mandate over Palestine and brought the "Palestinian Question" to the United Nations, which accepted the responsibility of finding a just solution for the Palestine issue. The United Nations proposed the partitioning of Palestine into two independent states, one Palestinian Arab and the other Jewish, with Jerusalem internationalised, acting as a framework for the two-State solution. A Peace conference was convened in Madrid in 1991, with the aim of achieving a peaceful settlement through direct negotiations along two tracks: between Israel and the Arab States and between Israel and the Palestinians, based on Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973). In 1993, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and the Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization Yasser Arafat signed the Oslo Accord, which outlined principles for further negotiations and laid the foundation for a Palestinian interim self-government in the West Bank and Gaza. The 1993 Oslo Accord deferred certain issues to subsequent permanent status negotiations, which were held in 2000 at Camp David and in 2001 in Taba, but proved inconclusive. Three decades on from the Oslo Accord, the overarching goal of the United Nations remains supporting Palestinians and Israelis to resolve the conflict and end the occupation in line with relevant UN resolutions, international law and bilateral agreements in pursuit of achieving the vision of two States - Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, viable and sovereign Palestinian State - living side by side in peace and security within secure and recognised borders, on the basis of the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Amid starvation in Gaza, Sudan, Guterres slams hunger 'as a weapon of war' 28 July 2025 - As starvation worsens in war-torn Gaza, UN agencies repeated warnings on Monday that Israel's decision to support a "one-week scale-up" of aid is far from enough to reverse deadly malnutrition rates in the enclave. The development comes as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres cautioned that conflict-driven hunger is spreading "from Gaza to Sudan and beyond". "Hunger fuels instability and undermines peace. We must never accept hunger as a weapon of war," he said in a video message to the UN Food Systems Summit Stocktake in Addis Ababa. Meanwhile, citing reports Monday that "more children died today of hunger", the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, said that it hoped to receive permission to bring in thousands of trucks loaded with food, medicine and hygiene supplies that Israel has blocked from entering Gaza for months. "They are currently in Jordan and Egypt waiting for the green light," the UN agency explained, adding that "at least 500/600 trucks" are needed every day to prevent more people from starving. More than 100 people have now starved to death in Gaza, UNRWA said, while local health authority reports indicate more than 40 deaths from malnutrition this month alone. "Opening all the crossings and flooding Gaza with assistance is the only way to avert further deepening of starvation among the people of Gaza," the UN agency maintained. Humanitarian pauses Its comments follow a major policy shift over the weekend when the Israeli army announced the establishment of a daily humanitarian pause from 10am to 8pm local time, in areas where its troops are not active. Child malnutrition has been on the rise in Gaza, particularly since 2 March when Israel imposed a near-total blockade, UNWRA has said. According to a map supplied by the Israeli authorities, the humanitarian pause applies to a thin strip of Gaza encompassing Al-Mawasi in the southwest, Deir Al-Balah in the centre and Gaza City in the north. On Sunday, a convoy of more than 100 trucks carrying aid supplies reportedly entered the Strip via the Kerem Shalom border crossing in the south. Aid desperately needed While welcoming that development, the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, highlighted the staggering scale of needs on the ground in Gaza. One in three people "hasn't eaten for days", insisted Tom Fletcher, UN Emergency Relief Chief and head of OCHA. "People are being shot just trying to get food to feed their families. Children are wasting away. This is what we face on the ground right now." In his statement, Mr. Fletcher acknowledged "progress" on the aid front, but stressed that "vast amounts of aid are needed to stave off famine and a catastrophic health crisis". He said UN agencies and the humanitarian community remain mobilised "to save as many lives as we can". In addition to Israel's temporary boost for increased aid in Gaza, customs restrictions on food, medicine and fuel from Egypt have reportedly been lifted. Secure routes for UN humanitarian convoys have also been designated. "We need sustained action and fast, including quicker clearances for convoys going to the crossing and dispatching into Gaza," Mr. Fletcher said, underscoring the need for "multiple trips per day to the crossings so we and our partners can pick up the cargo, safe routes that avoid crowded areas and no more attacks on people gathering for food". Meeting on two-State solution Meanwhile in New York, France and Saudi Arabia on Monday launched a new diplomatic initiative to push for a two-State solution between Israel and the Palestinian people. The three-day conference begins as President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will formally recognise Palestine in September, the first of the G7 nations to do so. A UN General Assembly resolution from 1947 established the partition of Palestine - then under British mandate - into two independent States, one Jewish and the other Arab. The State of Israel was declared in 1948. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Today's top news: Occupied Palestinian Territory, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Occupied Palestinian Territory UN Relief Chief welcomes humanitarian pauses in Gaza, stresses vast amounts of aid needed to stave off famine The Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, yesterday welcomed Israel's announcement of humanitarian pauses in Gaza and said in a statement that this decision supports the scale-up of aid, including food, medicine, and fuel, and would help lessen the tremendous suffering of the starving population. He added that vast amounts of aid are needed to stave off famine and a catastrophic health crisis. UN agencies and our partners have also welcomed these measures. Yesterday, the World Food Program (WFP) said it has enough food in the region or en route to feed the starving population for about three months. UNRWA says that some 6,000 trucks in Jordan and Egypt are waiting for the green light to enter. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) says that July was the worst month of deaths linked to malnutrition, with more than 85 per cent of malnutrition related deaths recorded in 2025. Nearly one in five children under five in Gaza city is now acutely malnourished. Humanitarian organizations report that in July, more than 5,000 children under five have already been admitted for outpatient treatment of malnutrition. The only four specialized treatment centers in Gaza are overwhelmed, pushing an already fragile health system closer to collapse. The UN and its partners stress the need for unimpeded access of humanitarian aid through all crossings and corridors to allow large-scale delivery of aid to the starving and exhausted population. Yesterday, the Israeli authorities announced simplified movement procedures both from the crossings and within Gaza. Out of 17 missions requiring coordination with the Israeli authorities eight were facilitated, including the collection of fuel and supplies from Kerem Shalom, while three have been denied, and two cancelled. Four missions, including the uplift of food cargo, were impeded but accomplished. The long-standing restrictions on the entry of aid have created an unpredictable environment with a lack of confidence by communities that aid will reach them. This has resulted in many of our convoys being offloaded directly by starving, desperate people. Yesterday, hungry people offloaded food supplies before they could reach their intended destination. OCHA reiterates that the only way to mitigate this situation is to have a sustained flow of aid over a period of time. This was evident during the ceasefire when such incidents did not occur. Meanwhile, airdrops have resumed in Gaza yesterday. All efforts to provide aid to the people who desperately need it are welcome however OCHA and its humanitarian partners say that airdrops are the last resort measure and carry risks for people on the ground. Injuries were reported yesterday when packages fell on tents. Israeli authorities must open all crossings and corridors to ensure the delivery of aid in an equitable and dignified manner. UN teams are ready to ramp up delivery and ensure that food aid reaches nearly every single person in the Strip. OCHA reports that modest quantities of fuel have entered Gaza last week. Fuel must be allowed in, consistently and at the volume needed to keep aid operations running, including operating the trucks to collect and distribute cargo. Over the weekend, in southern Gaza, partners working in water, sanitation and hygiene report that the power supply to the feeder line for the Southern Gaza Desalination Plant has been restored. The plant is operating at full capacity now and would serve some half a million people in Al Mawasi with clean, potable water. In northern Gaza, the Mekorot pipeline remains damaged, affecting the availability of water for more than 950,000 people. OCHA continues to stress the urgency of a permanent ceasefire, to provide adequate assistance and aid to the desperate population in Gaza, who have been living under catastrophic conditions for more than 21 months. Sudan Aid groups appeal for stepped-up funding as health, food crises escalate OCHA is alarmed by escalating health and food crises across Sudan. In the locality of Tawila, in North Darfur State, cholera cases continue to rise, with more than 1,500 suspected and confirmed infections reported since June. Over 500 people are currently receiving treatment. Local authorities have introduced emergency measures, including market closures and a ban on public gatherings. Humanitarian organizations urgently require $120 million to scale up life-saving support in Tawila over the next three months. This funding is essential to contain the outbreak and sustain critical services. In the city of Port Sudan, the main entry point for humanitarian personnel and supplies, a sharp increase in heatstroke cases linked to extreme temperatures and prolonged power outages is raising concerns. According to a professional association of Sudanese doctors, more than 40 cases and one death were recorded over the past two days. Meanwhile, food insecurity continues to worsen across Sudan. In North Darfur State, low cereal supply, poor harvests and a prolonged food deficit have severely affected food availability. In Abu Shouk camp, displaced families are facing acute shortages of food and medicine, with local sources reporting four hunger-related deaths last week. Food prices continue to rise to alarming levels in El Fasher, the state capital. In May, the average cost of the local food basket there was more than six times the national average. The city recorded the highest prices for nearly all essential items among assessed localities. Some of the most staggering price hikes included sugar, which rose by some 960 per cent, sorghum by 160 per cent. Even liquid dish soap increased by 150 per cent in just one month. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has identified famine conditions in multiple areas in North Darfur and the eastern Nuba Mountains, with more locations at risk. An IPC alert earlier this month noted that the food security and nutrition situation will further deteriorate over the lean season from July to October, particularly in areas of active conflict with limited access and experiencing high levels of displacement. Despite these challenges, the UN and our humanitarian partners continue to provide assistance. Last week, the UN and our humanitarian partners distributed shelter material, blankets, cooking sets and hygiene items to 2,000 newly displaced families in North Darfur State. However, nearly 60 per cent of displaced families still lack adequate shelter support. In June, the World Food Programme reached 3.6 million people with food assistance across the country including 1.6 million in areas facing or at risk of famine. This marks a sharp drop from the 5 million people reached in May, driven by reduced funding, access constraints, insecurity and the onset of the rainy season. Syria OCHA urges Security Council to protect civilians, sustain support for Syria Addressing the Security Council today, Edem Wosornu, OCHA's Director of Operations and Advocacy, said that recent weeks have provided a stark reminder that Syria is not just one of the world's largest humanitarian crises, but also subject to violence and climatic shocks that compound the country's needs. Wosornu, speaking on behalf of Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, noted that the recent violence in As-Sweida displaced an estimated 175,000 people both within the area and to surrounding governorates, adding that women, children and medical personnel were among hundreds of people who have been reportedly killed. She said that those caught up in the fighting must be protected and be allowed to move freely in search of safety and medical treatment. Safeguarding essential infrastructure and services - including healthcare, water and sanitation and electricity - are equally vital. OCHA is engaging with all parties to ensure the swift delivery of assistance, but access remains constrained. Wosornu warned that humanitarian assistance across the country is falling short of meeting the level of humanitarian needs and without further funding, the gap will only widen*. OCHA has just issued an extension of the response plan, for which further prioritization have been done. The UN and its humanitarian partners are seeking $3.2 billion through the end of the year, a reduction of nearly $1 billion from the 2024 ask - though needs remain just as high. Only 12 per cent have been funded so far. OCHA says that assistance to As-Sweida Governorate, including from the UN, continues to be provided through the Syrian Arab Red Crescent Society, with a third convoy today. But sustained access for more assistance is needed. Meanwhile, over the past three days, OCHA led two interagency missions to assess the situation of families displaced by recent violence in in Rural Damascus and Dar'a Governorates. In the town of Sayyeda Zeinab in Rural Damascus, some 3,000 people are sheltering in 14 hotels. Displaced families reported trauma, injuries during fighting, and loss of homes and documentation. Health access is limited, with only one public hospital functioning and the nearest health center 6 km away. In Dar'a, the mission assessed the Tal Shihab reception centre in Izra' District as a potential site to accommodate displaced families. The World Health Organization has confirmed five attacks on healthcare in As-Sweida Governorate during the recent escalation of violence, including the killing of two doctors, obstruction and targeting of ambulances. WHO-supported mobile medical teams have been deployed to areas of displacement, providing urgent outpatient consultations, maternal and child health services, mental health support, and essential medicines. The UN and our humanitarian partners have scaled up support across Dar'a and Rural Damascus Governorates. The UN Refugee Agency and its partners provided more than 1,800 kits of household items, reaching over 9,000 people. UNFPA and its partners continue to deliver psychosocial services and distribute dignity kits to displaced women and girls. Partners have also delivered 90,000 bottles of water; provided 12,000 liters of fuel to operate essential water, sanitation and hygiene facilities; and supplied dozens of plastic water tanks to displaced families in Dar'a and As-Sweida Governorates. Additional water tanks are being dispatched to reception centers across the affected areas to enhance access to safe water. Medical teams and ambulances are on the ground and continue to provide medical consultations, emergency care, and essential medications to patients among the displaced families in Dar'a, among ongoing waves of displacement from As-Sweida countryside. *Donations made to UN Crisis Relief help UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs reach people in Syria with urgent support. Ukraine Attacks continue to cause casualties, damage OCHA reports that attacks over the weekend continued to damage hospitals, homes and critical infrastructure across Ukraine. According to authorities, at least 20 people were killed and more than 120 others, including five children, were injured across the country from Friday to the early hours of today. The most severe impact occurred in the north-east, in the Sumy region, where attacks hit a civilian bus, reportedly killing and injuring several people, and repeatedly disrupting electricity in Sumy City and across the region. In the neighbouring Kharkiv region, a hospital was struck last Friday, injuring four health workers and two patients, according to WHO. Attacks and hostilities also caused civilian casualties and damaged residential buildings, schools and shops in the regions of Dnipro, Donetsk, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Zaporizhzhia. In Kyiv, an early morning attack today damaged windows in an apartment block and injured several people, including a child. Meanwhile, aid workers continue to coordinate with local organizations to support the most vulnerable people in the Sumy Region. Today, the Humanitarian Coordinator, Matthias Schmale, visited several border communities with Andrea De Domenico, the head of OCHA's office in the country, and Richard Ragan, Country Director for WFP, to assess the most urgent needs of people affected by intense hostilities. Following the strikes in the regions of Kharkiv and Dnipro, aid workers delivered shelter materials and other supplies, assisted with repairs, and provided psychosocial assistance to affected families. On 25 July, the UN and itts humanitarian partners also delivered food, medicines, hygiene items and charging stations to front-line communities in Kherson and Donetsk regions. So far in 2025, more than 30 convoys have reached nearly 40,000 people in front lines areas. Posted on 28 July 2025 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UNRWA Commissioner-General on Gaza: airdrops will not reverse the deepening starvation UNRWA 28 Jul 2025 26 July 2025 From Philippe Lazzarini, the UNRWA Commissioner-General as posted on his official X account (previously known as Twitter) Download UNRWA multimedia resources on malnutrition in children here Gaza: airdrops will not reverse the deepening starvation. They are expensive, inefficient and can even kill starving civilians. It is a distraction and screensmoke. A manmade hunger can only be addressed by political will. Lift the siege, open the gates and guarantee safe movements and dignified access to people in need. Allow the U.N. including UNRWA and our partners to operate at scale and without bureaucratic or political hurdles. At UNRWA, we have the equivalent of 6,000 trucks in Jordan and Egypt waiting for the green light to get into Gaza. Driving aid through is much easier, more effective, faster, cheaper and safer. It's more dignified for the people of Gaza. Finally, airdrops will not prevent aid diversion, principled humanitarian assistance will. It reaches those in need. The latest USAID report confirms that there is no "so called" systemic diversion of aid provided by the humanitarian community in Gaza. Background Information: UNRWA is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. The United Nations General Assembly established UNRWA in 1949 with a mandate to provide humanitarian assistance and protection to registered Palestine refugees in the Agency's area of operations pending a just and lasting solution to their plight. UNRWA operates in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, The Gaza Strip, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. Tens of thousands of Palestine refugees who lost their homes and livelihoods due to the 1948 conflict continue to be displaced and in need of support, nearly 75 years on. UNRWA helps Palestine Refugees achieve their full potential in human development through quality services it provides in education, health care, relief and social services, protection, camp infrastructure and improvement, microfinance, and emergency assistance. UNRWA is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary-General's remarks at the Opening Segment of the High-level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution [bilingual, as delivered] United Nations Secretary-General 28 July 2025 Secretary-General's remarks at the Opening Segment of the High-level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution [bilingual, as delivered] Distinguished Co-Chairs, Mr. President of the General Assembly, Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen, I once again thank the government of France and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for organizing this international conference on the implementation of the two-state solution. Let's tell it straight. For decades, Middle East diplomacy has been far more process than peace. Words, speeches, declarations may not have much meaning to those on the ground. They have seen it before. They have heard it before. Meanwhile, destruction and annexation bulldoze ahead. The onus and obligation is on all of us to prove that this effort is something different. We know the central question for Middle East peace is implementation of the two-State solution, where two independent, sovereign, democratic States - Israel and Palestine - live side-by-side in peace and security. My central question to those who stand in the way is this: What is the alternative? A one-State reality where Palestinians are denied equal rights, and forced to live under perpetual occupation and inequality? A one-state reality where Palestinians are expelled from their land? That is not peace. That is not justice. That is not in accordance with international law. And that is not acceptable. That will only increase the growing isolation of Israel on the global stage. Let's be clear: Statehood for the Palestinians is a right, not a reward. And the denial of statehood would be a gift to extremists everywhere. Excellencies, The only realistic, just, and sustainable solution is two States -- Israel and Palestine -- living side-by-side in peace and security, within secure and recognized borders, on the basis of the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the capital of both - in line with international law, UN resolutions and other relevant agreements. Two States recognized by all and fully integrated into the international community. But time is running out. With every passing day, trust is slipping. Institutions are weakened. And hopes are dashed. That is why I implore the international community not only to keep the two-State solution alive -- but to take the urgent, concrete, irreversible steps necessary to make it real. That means: Immediately ending violence. Immediately ceasing annexation and settlement activities, as called for by the International Court of Justice. Rejecting the forced displacement of the Palestinian population from any part of the Occupied Palestinian Territory, which would constitute a grave violation of international human rights and humanitarian law. Rejecting any form of ethnic cleansing. Ensuring full accountability for any atrocity crimes and other violations of international law. Restoring credible political dialogue. And reaffirming the equal rights and dignity of both peoples. All this requires courage from leaders on the ground, and courage from the international community to act with principle and persistence. Starting with Gaza. Excellencies, Nothing can justify the horrific 7 October terror attacks by Hamas. And nothing can justify the scale of death and destruction in Gaza since then - a level without precedent in recent times. Gaza has descended into a cascade of catastrophes. Tens of thousands dead. Virtually the entire population displaced many times over. The shadow of starvation looming over everyone. All with the world watching. I welcome recent steps to reduce restrictions to lifesaving humanitarian aid - but this is far from the solution to end the nightmare. We need: An immediate, permanent ceasefire. The immediate, unconditional release of all hostages. Full and unfettered humanitarian access. These are not preconditions for peace. They are the foundation of it. And let's be equally clear: Beyond Gaza, the continued occupation of the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, is illegal. It must end. It is the law. Reaffirmed by the International Court of Justice in its advisory opinion of July 2024. Reaffirmed by this Assembly. And rooted in international law. Excellencies, Let us reject the false choice between Palestinian statehood and Israeli security. There is no security in occupation. Let us affirm: Israel's legitimate security concerns must be addressed. And so must the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. We must speak with one voice. To condemn all acts of terror. To denounce all targeting of civilians and taking of hostages. To reject incitement to hatred and violence. We must call on Israel to recommit - clearly and unequivocally -- to the two-State solution, and to cease all actions that undermine it. And we must support Palestinian unity around a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive vision of statehood. Let us lay the groundwork for: Unified Palestinian governance. Credible security arrangements. And a Palestinian Authority that carries out reforms and that can deliver for its people. The Palestinian Authority has taken critical reform steps. I urge the international community to recognize when progress is made and to continue to support the Palestinian Government in its reform agenda under incredibly challenging circumstances. Excellencies, This conflict cannot be managed. It must be resolved. We cannot wait for perfect conditions. We must create them. We cannot defer peace efforts until suffering becomes unbearable. We must act before it is too late. [FRENCH] Excellences, Excellencies, Au fond, il ne s'agit pas seulement d'un defi politique - mais aussi d'une question de valeurs et de principes communs. At its core, this is not only a political challenge - it is a matter of shared values, and principles. Le principe selon lequel tous les peuples sont egaux en droits, egaux en dignite et ont le droit de vivre sans crainte. The principle that all peoples are equal in rights, equal in dignity, and entitled to live free of fear. Qu'aucune nation ne devrait vivre dans l'insecurite permanente. That no nation should live in permanent insecurity. Et qu'aucun peuple ne devrait vivre sous une occupation continue. And that no people should live under continued occupation. C'est la promesse de la Charte des Nations Unies et du droit international. This is the promise of the United Nations Charter and international law. C'est l'appel de la conscience. This is the call of conscience. Repondons a cet appel avec clarte, courage et conviction. Let us answer that call with clarity, courage, and conviction. Choisissons - enfin - la voie de la paix. Let us, at long last, choose the path of peace. Non pas comme un concept, mais comme un engagement. Not as a concept, but as a commitment. Non pas comme un reve, mais comme une realite. Not as a dream, but as a reality. Pour les Palestiniens. Pour les Israeliens. Pour les peuples du Moyen-Orient et du monde entier. For Palestinians. For Israelis. For the people of the Middle East and the world. Je vous remercie. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary-General's remarks to the wrap-up session of the High-level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the two-State Solution [bilingual as delivered; scroll down for all-English] United Nations Secretary-General 28 July 2025 Antonio Guterres Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen, I thank the government of France and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for organizing this international conference on the implementation of the two-State solution. We are here today with our eyes wide open - fully aware of the challenges before us. We know that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has endured for generations - defying hopes ... defying diplomacy ... defying countless resolutions and defying international law. We know that the conflict continues to take lives, destroy futures, and destabilize the region and our world. But we also know its persistence is not inevitable. It can be resolved. That demands political will and courageous leadership. And it demands truth. The truth is: we are at a breaking point. The two-State solution is farther than ever before. Excellencies, Nothing can justify the horrific 7 October terror attacks by Hamas and the taking of hostages, both of which I have repeatedly condemned. And nothing can justify the obliteration of Gaza that has unfolded before the eyes of the world. The starvation of the population. The killing of tens of thousands of civilians. The further fragmentation of the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The relentless expansion of settlements. The surge in settler violence against Palestinians. The demolition of homes and forced displacement of populations. The changes to demographics on the ground. The absence of any credible political solution. And the support - as expressed in a Knesset declaration voted last week - for annexing the Occupied West Bank. Let's be clear: The creeping annexation of the occupied West Bank is illegal. It must stop. The wholesale destruction of Gaza is intolerable. It must stop. Unilateral actions that would forever undermine the two-state solution are unacceptable. They must stop. Excellencies, These are not isolated events. They are part of a systemic reality that is dismantling the building blocks of peace in the Middle East. And yet, precisely because of the grim realities, we must do even more to realize the two-State solution. Today's conference is a rare and indispensable opportunity. We must ensure that it does not become another exercise in well-meaning rhetoric. It can and must serve as a decisive turning point - one that catalyzes irreversible progress towards ending the occupation, and realizing our shared aspiration for a viable two-State solution. The two-State solution remains the only framework rooted in international law, endorsed by this Assembly, and supported by the international community. Specifically - Israel and Palestine - living side-by-side in peace and security, within secure and recognized borders, on the basis of the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States - in line with international law, UN resolutions and other relevant agreements. Two independent, contiguous, democratic and sovereign States recognized by all and fully integrated into the international community. It is the only credible path to a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. And it is the sine qua non for peace across the wider Middle East. Excellences, Israel, la Palestine et d'autres devront prendre des decisions difficiles sur cette voie. Un leadership audacieux et fonde sur des principes sera necessaire de tous les cotes. Nous sommes ici pour encourager et soutenir cet effort. Merci de vous etre rassembles pour faire avancer cette cause essentielle pour les populations d'Israel, de Palestine, et pour l'humanite tout entiere. Je vous remercie. ----------------- [All -English] Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen, I thank the government of France and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for organizing this international conference on the implementation of the two-State solution. We are here today with our eyes wide open - fully aware of the challenges before us. We know that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has endured for generations - defying hopes ... defying diplomacy ... defying countless resolutions ... defying international law. We know that the conflict continues to take lives, destroy futures, and destabilize the region and our world. But we also know its persistence is not inevitable. It can be resolved. That demands political will and courageous leadership. And it demands truth. The truth is: we are at a breaking point. The two-State solution is farther than ever before. Excellencies, Nothing can justify the horrific 7 October terror attacks by Hamas and the taking of hostages, both of which I have repeatedly condemned. And nothing can justify the obliteration of Gaza that has unfolded before the eyes of the world. The starvation of the population. The killing of tens of thousands of civilians. The further fragmentation of the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The relentless expansion of settlements. The surge in settler violence against Palestinians. The demolition of homes and forced displacement of populations. The changes to demographics on the ground. The absence of any credible political horizon. And the support - as expressed in a Knesset declaration voted last week - for annexing the Occupied West Bank. Let's be clear: The creeping annexation of the occupied West Bank is illegal. It must stop. The wholesale destruction of Gaza is intolerable. It must stop. Unilateral actions that would forever undermine the two-state solution are unacceptable. They must stop. Excellencies, These are not isolated events. They are part of a systemic reality that is dismantling the building blocks of peace in the Middle East. And yet, precisely because of the grim realities, we must do even more to realize the two-State solution. Today's conference is a rare and indispensable opportunity. We must ensure that it does not become another exercise in well-meaning rhetoric. It can and must serve as a decisive turning point - one that catalyzes irreversible progress towards ending the occupation, and realizing our shared aspiration for a viable two-State solution. The two-State solution remains the only framework rooted in international law, endorsed by this Assembly, and supported by the international community. Specifically - Israel and Palestine - living side-by-side in peace and security, within secure and recognized borders, on the basis of the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States - in line with international law, UN resolutions and other relevant agreements. Two independent, contiguous, democratic and sovereign States recognized by all and fully integrated into the international community. It is the only credible path to a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. And it is the sine qua non for peace across the wider Middle East. Excellencies, Israel, Palestine and others will have to make difficult decisions on that path. Bold and principled leadership will be required on all sides. We are here to encourage and support that effort. Thank you for coming together to advance this essential cause for the people of Israel, Palestine and all humanity. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address WADS, PADS integrate with Royal Australian Air Force for Talisman Sabre 2025 Published July 28, 2025 Western Air Defense Sector RAAF BASE WILLIAMTOWN, Australia (AFNS) -- Operators from the Western Air Defense Sector and Pacific Air Defense Sector integrated with the Royal Australian Air Force's No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit to deliver seamless command and control during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025. Talisman Sabre is Australia's largest bilateral military exercise with the United States. This year, the exercise expanded to 19 nations and more than 35,000 troops, spanning thousands of kilometers from Australia's Christmas Island to the Coral Sea. The exercise featured complex joint operations with air, maritime and ground forces, as well as integrated fires. WADS and PADS personnel deployed to RAAF Base Williamtownhome of 3CRUwhere they worked alongside Royal Australian Air Force operators to deliver tactical C2 of live-fly operations across a variety of combined and joint mission sets. "This integration demonstrates our allied air defense systems and operators' ability to work together seamlesslyat any time, and in any theater," said Maj. Laznier "Rooster" Mederos Santos, senior director with WADS. "Exercises like Talisman Sabre prove our collective ability to deliver credible command and control across a complex battlespace, ensuring that when it matters most, we are ready to operate as one." During Talisman Sabre, WADS and PADS operators fully integrated with 3CRU operators, systems, and procedures, controlling live multinational aircraft, building shared situational awareness and executing complex tactics, techniques and procedures. The effort underscored the vital role of air defense sectors in a modern, joint and coalition fight. "Interoperability isn't just about compatible hardwareit's about people, procedures and trust," said Lt. Col. Jeffrey Lum, mission crew commander with PADS. "Working alongside our Australian allies at 3CRU during a live-fly, live-fire exercise let us prove we can coordinate and command air defense operations in real time against realistic, complex scenarios." Participation in Talisman Sabre underscores the U.S. commitment to integrated deterrence alongside Indo-Pacific allies and partners. "The scale and complexity of Talisman Sabre create the perfect environment to stress our systems, procedures and teams," Mederos Santos added. "These challenges drive us to improve our interoperability so that we can deliver decisive C2 in support of joint and coalition operations across the Indo-Pacific." The exercise, which runs from July 13 to Aug. 4, highlights the strength of U.S. air defense cooperation. As regional challenges grow, exercises like this ensure allied forces remain ready, unified and capable of delivering decisive command and control across the Indo-Pacific. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USS Mitscher Departs Naval Station Norfolk for Scheduled Deployment US Navy 28 July 2025 From Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet NORFOLK, Va. -- Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57), assigned to Destroyer Squadron Two (DESRON-2), departed Naval Station Norfolk for a regularly scheduled deployment to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility, July 25, 2025. Equipped with the Aegis combat system, Mitscher provides multi-mission offensive and defensive capabilities to conduct anti-air, anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare. "Our Sailors have trained hard and are well-prepared to go over the horizon in support of our nation's tasking," said Cmdr. Stephen Prugh, commanding officer of Mitscher. "Our Sailors are ready to use their knowledge and expertise in support of U.S. security, whether steaming independently or as a part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group." USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the strike group's flagship, as well as multiple destroyers from DESRON-2 and USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81), departed Naval Station Norfolk for deployment to the U.S. European Command area of operations on June 24, 2025. In addition to Mitscher, DESRON-2 includes USS Mahan (DDG 72), USS Bainbridge (DDG 96) and USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98). "Mitscher is another combat-ready warship DESRON-2 brings to Fleet and Component Commanders for force employment," said Capt. Mark Lawrence, commodore of DESRON-2. "Our forces are steadfast in their support of economic prosperity, national security and national defense, in the Atlantic Ocean and all around the globe." The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group provides combatant commanders and civilian leaders with increased capacity to support U.S. security, deter adversaries and project power globally through sustained operations at sea. U.S. 2nd Fleet, reestablished in 2018 in response to the changing global security environment, develops and employs maritime ready forces to fight across multiple domains in the Atlantic and Arctic in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied, and partner interests. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USS Indiana changes homeport to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam US Navy 28 July 2025 From Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Scott Barnes, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM -- The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Indiana (SSN 789) arrived at its new homeport of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, July 22. The Indiana joined Submarine Squadron 7 as its third Virginia-class submarine after transiting from its previous homeport of Groton, Connecticut. "The crew and I are grateful for the hospitality and warm aloha we received, both upon entering the Pacific Ocean, and arrival here in Pearl Harbor," said Cmdr. Kyle Johnson, commanding officer of the Indiana. "We look forward to working with Submarine Squadron 7 and our Pearl Harbor partners to prepare Indianathe 'Battle Bass'for any tasking, at any time, in defense of our nation." The Indiana previously returned from a successful six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility on March 27, 2025. Rear Adm. Chris Cavanaugh, commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, welcomed the Indiana to Pearl Harbor and commented on the crew's recent achievements. "Over the past 10 months, Indiana's crew has expertly navigated the challenges of an operational deployment and a homeport shift," said Cavanaugh. "Their ability to succeed is a testament to their cohesiveness and resilience. I'm excited for Indiana to join the Pacific Submarine Force and to bolster our submarine presence to maintain a secure and prosperous, free, and open Indo-Pacific." Capt. Corey Poorman, commander, Submarine Squadron 7, met the Indiana's crew upon arrival to Pearl Harbor. "On behalf of the Submarine Squadron Seven Ohana, I welcome the crew and families of the Indiana to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam," said Poorman. "We look forward to working with the Indiana crew and to provide the training and certification they need to maintain as apex predators of the Indo-Pacific." Commissioned on Sept. 29, 2018, the Indiana is named in honor of the state of Indiana. Holding a crew of approximately 14 officers and 120 enlisted Sailors, it is the third U.S. Navy ship to bear the name Indiana, following two earlier battleshipsthe first of which was commissioned in 1895. Submarine Squadron 7 is responsible for providing training, material, and personnel readiness support to three Virginia-class submarines and four Los Angeles-class submarines. The U.S. Pacific Fleet Submarine Force provides strategic deterrence, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, precision land strike, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and early warning, and special warfare capabilities around the globe. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USS Ohio (SSGN 726) arrives in Brisbane US Navy 28 July 2025 From Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel Providakes BRISBANE, Australia -- The Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Ohio (SSGN 726) arrived in Brisbane, Australia, for a scheduled port visit July 27, 2025, mooring alongside the forward deployed submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40). Ohio's visit is the first Ohio-class submarine to pull into Brisbane. This historical event was made possible with the support of Frank Cable - which pulled in a day prior - underlining the unique expeditionary logistics capabilities of U.S. submarine tenders and their capacity to facilitate and assist deployed submarines. Ohio's visit coincides with the upcoming 80th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific Day, which marks the end of World War II in the Pacific. The Aug. 15 celebration commemorates decades of shared U.S.-Australian history and cooperation. During World War II, Brisbane served as a major submarine hub, hosting over 70 U.S. Navy submarines and three submarine tenders. Steeped in U.S. naval history, Brisbane continues to play a role in the shared history of the two nations, as evidenced by Frank Cable's visit. During the port visit, Ohio will host tours and engagements for distinguished visitors, national and local community leaders aboard Frank Cable. Along with these events, Sailors assigned to Ohio and Frank Cable will participate with local community services groups providing volunteer opportunities to give back to the community. Ohio, homeported in Bangor, Washington, and assigned to Submarine Squadron 19, is conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. Commander, Submarine Group 7 directs forward-deployed, combat capable forces across the full spectrum of undersea warfare throughout the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taliban Restrictions Blamed For Surge in Suicides Among Afghans By Firuza Azizi and Farangis Najibullah July 29, 2025 Rakhshana stopped going to school as a young girl in Kabul when the Taliban-led government banned education for girls beyond primary school. Then she enrolled at a private center that offered English language classes. But that too was taken away when the center was shut down by the Taliban in June. At age 18, Rakhshana, whose name was changed to protect her privacy, says that robbed of her plans and dreams for the future and she attempted to take her own life. "The training center was my last hope to get an education. Its closure was the end of the world for me," Rakhshana told RFE/RL. "I swallowed 12-15 pills that I found at home. I wanted to die, but unfortunately, I survived." Rakhshana's case is not isolated. Suicide attempts and suicide rates have been rising in Afghanistan, especially among younger generations, since the return of the Taliban to power in August 2021, according to Afghan media, as well as local journalists, activists, and residents who spoke to RFE/RL. There is no official data on suicide rates in Afghanistan, and the authorities in Kabul did not respond to RFE/RL's multiple requests for information on the matter. Etilaat Roz, a popular Afghan publication known for its investigative journalism, reported that at least 213 suicides took place in the country between April 2022 and April 2023. The following year, the Taliban-led Ministry of Interior announced that it has registered 360 suicides cases, showing an uptick in the trend. RFE/RL could not independently verify the figures. It is widely known majority of suicide cases in Afghanistan go unreported due to religious and cultural reasons. Taking one's own life is forbidden in Islam. Families of those who commit suicide often hide the cause of their loved ones' deaths. Unemployment Key Driving Factor Behind Men's Suicide RFE/RL spoke to several survivors of suicide attempts as well as family members of those who had taken their own lives in recent months. While every person has their own unique circumstances, they all mentioned a feeling of hopelessness and a complete lack of opportunities as major issues. According to the Afghan Witness project that collects information on human rights, security, and the political situation in Afghanistan, unemployment appeared to be a major contributing factor in suicides committed by younger males. Factors behind suicides among women appear to be more complex, with many incidents stemming from domestic violence, forced marriages, and stifling restrictions imposed by the Taliban, such as the ban on education, according to the Afghan Witness project. The Taliban has also banned women from speaking in public, traveling without a male guardian, and working in nongovernmental organizations, among many other constraints they face in their daily lives. 'My Parents Sent Me Back To My Abusive Husband' A 23-year-old resident of Kabul's Dasht-e Barchi area attempted to end her own life in early July after suffering what she described as physical and verbal abuse at the hands of her husband and in-laws. The woman, a mother of one who did not want to be named for privacy reasons, said her "life was saved by a neighbor." "I faced violence since the beginning of my marriage. I went back to my parents' home, but they sent me back to my husband," the woman said, explaining her despair. Women in Afghanistan cannot simply leave their abusive husbands and try to rebuild their lives on their own. Divorce is frowned upon in such a conservative society and families try to avoid it at any cost. Under the Taliban's oppressive rules on women, it is virtually impossible for a divorced woman to live alone, find work, and become self-sufficient. With no prospect of starting over, the woman from Dasht-e Barchi told RFE/RL she chose to attempt suicide because she felt it was her only way out of the unbearable abuse she was suffering at home. In the southern city of Kandahar, local media reported four cases of suicide in the first week of July alone. A fifth person, a 45-year-old man, who attempted to take his own life by hanging, was saved by neighbors. RFE/RL contacted the man, who said on condition of anonymity that being unable to provide for his family due to unemployment and extreme poverty drove him to hopelessness and a suicide attempt. The father of four said he asked government officials, various companies and agencies, private employers, and even neighbors to help him find "any job," but none of them was able to help. "I could not find work. I didn't have any money to even buy just bread to feed my children," the man said. No Support Available For those who have survived suicide attempts, help remains an issue. Activists say better suicide surveillance programs are required, as are community-based mental health programs and online counseling to provide better access to those Afghans in need. The three survivors who spoke to RFE/RL said they have not been able to receive professional support, as there are no known helplines for survivors or those struggling with suicidal thoughts. The teenage girl in Kabul said her only therapy has been drawing pictures to distract her from negative thoughts, while her parents carefully watch her to prevent any repeated suicide attempts. The mother in Dasht-e Barchi and her 4-year-old son are currently staying with the neighbor who saved her given the lack of any treatment facilities. "My life has been saved, but my situation has not changed. I asked myself, 'now what?' and I don't have the answer," the woman said. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/taliban-restrictions-fueling- suicides-afghans/33486028.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Skies In Turmoil: Military Conflicts Remapping Global Aviation By Merhat Sharipzhan, Aleksandr Dubrovsky and RFE/RL's Russian Service July 29, 2025 High above, the familiar pathways of global air travel are vanishing. Where pilots once flew straightforward transcontinental routes, they now navigate a sky that looks like shattered glass -- millions of flights squeezed into congested corridors. At the same time, vast swaths of airspace remain eerily empty or bristle with flying missiles and drones. This shift is no accident. The proliferation of wars, regional hostilities, and military escalations in recent years has made the world's skies more dangerous and unpredictable than at any time since the Cold War. From Russia to the Middle East and across Africa, "no-fly zones" have multiplied, throwing international aviation into crisis and reshaping the economics, safety, and carbon footprint of flying. Russia's Air Chaos: The New Normal In early July 2025, chaos unfolded at airports across Russia. On the weekend of July 5-6 alone, over 2,000 flights were canceled or delayed after a barrage of Ukrainian drone attacks prompted the shutdown of large swaths of Russian airspace. At Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport, passenger Tatyana described the scene as "a catastrophe." Lounges were overwhelmed, with people sprawled across the floors, and basic amenities like drinking water had run out. "There was nowhere to sit, and people were sleeping on the tile," she said. In St. Petersburg, taxi drivers charged up to 80,000 rubles ($1,025) for rides to Moscow as train tickets sold out following shutdowns at Pulkovo Airport. On July 6 alone, more than 15,000 passengers were stranded at Sheremetyevo, while smaller airports in Kaluga, Tambov, and Pskov suspended all operations. Russian defense officials claimed they had intercepted up to 120 drones that night, with several brought down just kilometers from Moscow. Authorities cited "external interference" as the reason for the repeated airspace closures, which have now become a common occurrence. Russia has endured over 600 airport shutdowns since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Stranded in the Sky But if being stranded in an airport is miserable, imagine being stranded in the sky. In June 2025, after Iran launched missiles at the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, surrounding nations rapidly closed their airspace. A Qantas flight from Perth to Paris spent 15 hours circling before returning to Australia without landing. Another was forced to reroute to Singapore. India-Pakistan tensions in May 2025 led to the closure of key corridors, forcing flights between Europe and Southeast Asia to take longer and more expensive routes. Flight times extended by up to 10 hours, with emergency fuel stops in unfamiliar airports becoming routine. Flightradar24 data shows pilots now face "super-density" corridorsnarrow lanes packed with aircraft, with vast no-fly voids on either side. Running into heavy congestion significantly increases the risk of collisions, all while overtasked air traffic controllers rehearse logistical juggling acts. Over the Red Sea, Libya, Sudan, and Syria, and in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, flights are increasingly diverted due to safety concerns. Air traffic control in conflict zones is often patchy or nonexistent, and pilots must coordinate detours midair using outdated or alternative channels. Environmental and Economic Fallout All this rerouting incurs a substantial environmental cost. According to a recent study by the University of Reading in the UK and the Institut Pierre-Simon Laplace in France, avoiding Russian airspace alone resulted in an 8.2 million ton increase in CO emissions over one year. Affected flights burned 13 percent more fuel on average, with Europe-Asia and North America-Asia routes seeing the sharpest spikes. A separate 2024 research work by Viktoriia Ivannikova, a leading aviation researcher at Dublin City University, found that rerouted flights from Europe to Asia now cost airlines up to 39 percent more in fuel and emit up to 40 percent more carbon dioxide -- crippling figures for an industry already under pressure to decarbonize. Winners and Losers in the Sky Wars Chinese carriers have seized the opportunity to access Russian airspace. Their routes from Europe to Asia are faster and more affordable, squeezing out Western competitors unrelated to politics. British Airways even canceled its London-Beijing and one of its daily London-Hong Kong flights in summer 2024 due to heavy losses. Finnair, Helsinki's flagship carrier, lost its edge connecting Europe to Asia. A flight to Shanghai that once took nine hours on China's Juneyao Airlines now takes 12 hours or more on Finnair. Even in the US, carriers feel the strain. United Airlines, for instance, shifted its Delhi-Newark route from a 13-hour direct flight to a 15-hour journey via Europe and the Middle East, due to the closure of Russian skies. This adaptability, though a response to adversity, is a testament to the industry's resilience in the aviation sector. Air India capitalized briefly, but lost leverage after airspace restrictions from Pakistan following an April 2025 terrorist attack in disputed Kashmir. Missiles in the Sky In regions adjacent to war zones, the skies are no longer the sole domain of commercial jets. Military activity now overlaps directly with civilian routes. In February, China conducted unannounced live-fire naval drills in the Tasman Sea. Commercial aircraft had to reroute midair after a Virgin Australia pilot accidentally picked up the warning on an unused radio frequency. In December 2024, a Russian air defense system accidentally shot down an Azerbaijani AZAL flight near Aqtau, Kazakhstan. Thirty-eight of the 67 people on board died. In another case, a Kyrgyz-leased cargo plane was shot down in Sudan by rebel fighters who mistook it for a military supply aircraft. These aren't isolated incidents. Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 was downed by Iran in 2020, and Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 was destroyed by a Russian-supplied missile over Ukraine in 2014. Both tragedies served as stark warnings: commercial planes are increasingly at risk of becoming collateral damage. The global air travel system, once a marvel of speed, safety, and connectivity, now resembles a complex web of geopolitical interests. Every new conflict reshapes the map. Each closure, each rerouting, and each airspace denial compounds delays, emissions, and costs. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/skies-flights-aviation- turmoil-military-war-nofly-zone-conflicts/33475885.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 28 July 2025 - Day 1251 Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. "To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal] The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that since the beginning of the day, there have been 131 combat encounters. The Russian enemy launched five rockets and 70 air strikes at the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements, fired eight missiles and dropped 107 controlled air bombs, carried out 1,376 kamikaze drones and 4,015 shells. In the Northern Slobozhansky and Kursk directions, Ukrainian soldiers repelled seven Russian assault actions, one confrontation is still ongoing. In addition, the Russian enemy launched eight air strikes, dropping 25 controlled bombs, and carried out 267 shelling positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements. Ukrainian soldiers repelled two attacks in the areas of Green and Red First in the South Slobozhany direction. In the Kupyans komu direction, Russian forces four times tried to push Ukrainian units out of occupied positions in the areas of Stepova Novoselivka, Kindrashivka and Lozova - the battle is currently being sharpened. In the Lyman direction, Russian forces attacked 23 times, trying to advance in the areas of settlements Novoyegorivka, Karpivka, Green Valley, Yampolivka and towards Dronivka and Serebryanka. One battle is going on so far. In the sivers komu direction, Ukrainian warriors stopped four attacks near grigorivka and towards viymka. In the Kramatorsky direction, the Defense Forces stopped the Russian enemy from trying to advance in the direction of the Predecessor. Konstantinivka suffered an air strike. The Russian enemy has tried seven times to infiltrate Ukrainian defense in the Toretsky direction - in the areas of Diliyivka, Toretsk and Rusynoy Yar. During the day in the Pokrovsky direction, Russian forces carried out 42 assault and offensive actions in the areas of popiv yar, Mayak, Novoekonomicne, Razine, Lisivka, Chunyshine, Zvirove, Kotline, Udaachne, Novomykolaivka, Gorikhove, Zeleny Kut and Dachne. Currently, the fights are being sharpened in eight locations. Russian forces caused an air strike on the settlement of Light. According to preliminary calculations, in this direction Ukrainian warriors zneskodili 149 invaders, 96 of them - irrevocably. Three units of automotive equipment, two motorcycles, 32 unmanned aircraft, two satellite terminals, a BPLA control antenna and three personnel shelters were destroyed. In addition, the ATV and five terminals of the Russian enemy's satellite communication were damaged. In the Novopavlovsk direction, Ukrainian defenders stopped eight Russian attacks in the areas of the settlements Zeleni Gai, Zelene Pole, Piddubne, Oleksandrograd, Shevchenko, Voskresenka and Temirivka, six more clashes are still ongoing. The enemy launched an aviation strike on the settlement of Ternovo. In the Gulyaipils komu direction of offensive actions of the Russian occupiers was not recorded. In the Orihivsky direction there was one combat encounter - the Russian opponent tried to advance near the settlement of Kamianske. In the Pridniprovsky direction Ukrainian soldiers repelled five attacks of the zagarbnikiv. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Three terrorists who masterminded attack on Chinese engineers in Karachi in Nov killed in Pakistan counterterrorism operation: media Global Times By Global Times Published: Jul 29, 2025 11:35 AM Three terrorists, including the mastermind behind the November 2024 attack on Chinese engineers, were killed during a counterterrorism operation in Karachi city in Pakistan, said Pakistan officials as reported by the Dawn. "A terrorist who masterminded an attack on Chinese engineers in November last year has been killed during an operation in Karachi's Manghopir area," said Additional Inspector-General of Police, Counter-Terrorism Department Azad Khan, per Dawn. Khan said the slain terrorist was identified as Zafran, while two of his accomplices were also killed in the operation, according to the report. On November 5 in 2024, two Chinese nationals were shot at and wounded by a private security guard in a textile mill in Karachi. At that time, investigators had suspected that it was a targeted attack, the Dawn reported. Following the incident, the Foreign Office of Pakistan said that the attack was being probed, adding that Pakistan was committed to the safety and security of Chinese nationals, projects, and institutions in the country. In response to the attack, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on November 6 2024 that the Chinese Consulate General in Karachi sent officials to visit the two injured Chinese nationals who had been taken hospital at once, urging Pakistan to do everything it can to save and treat the injured, swiftly investigate the case, hunt down the perpetrator, and take concrete actions to protect the safety of Chinese citizens in Pakistan. "China will maintain close communication with Pakistan on the treatment of the injured, investigation of the case and protection of the safety of Chinese citizens in Pakistan," said Mao. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US arsenal 'depleted' as quarter of THAAD missiles used to defend Israel against Iran: Report Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 3:33 PM The United States used around a quarter of its THAAD missiles during the June Israeli aggression against Iran and is left with a depleted arsenal of interceptors, a report says. Citing two sources familiar with the matter, CNN reported on Sunday that during the 12-day assault, the US forces fired between 100 and 150 Terminal High Altitude Area Defense rockets, each of which costs roughly $12.7 million, against Iran's retaliatory missiles. The report said using so many missiles in such a short period "vastly outpaces production," as the US manufactured just 11 THAAD interceptors last year and is expected to produce 12 this year. Meanwhile, former American military officials and missile experts warned that the shortfall raises concerns about the United States' own security and its ability to replenish its supply of THAAD missiles. "The reports about THAAD expenditure are concerning. This is not the sort of thing that the US can afford to continue to do on and on," a missile expert said. "It was a major commitment to our Israeli ally, but missile defense interceptor capacity is definitely a concern, and THAAD is a very scarce resource." Mara Karlin, former US assistant secretary of defense for strategy, plans, and capabilities, said the government is currently grappling with the shortage of air defense systems. "Air defense is relevant in all of the major theaters right now. And there's not enough systems. There's not enough interceptors. There's not enough production and there are not enough people working on it," she said. "You have the challenge of something being both incredibly relevant and also there's a dearth of them," she added. Ari Cicurel, Associate Director of Foreign Policy at the Jewish Institute for National Security of America think tank, estimated that it would take three to eight years to replenish the supply of THAAD missiles at the current production rates. "After burning through a large portion of their available interceptors, the United States and Israel both face an urgent need to replenish stockpiles and sharply increase production rates," he said. On Thursday, The Wall Street Journal warned of an "alarming gap" in the US missile arsenal, saying the stockpile fell significantly low during Washington's operations aimed at protecting the occupying regime against Iran's retaliation. On June 13, Israel launched a blatant and unprovoked aggression against Iran, triggering a 12-day war that killed at least 1,064 people in the country, including military commanders, nuclear scientists, and ordinary civilians. The United States also entered the war by bombing three Iranian nuclear sites in a grave violation of international law. In response, the Iranian Armed Forces targeted strategic sites across the occupied territories as well as the al-Udeid air base in Qatar, the largest American military base in West Asia. On June 24, Iran, through its successful retaliatory operations against both the Israeli regime and the US, managed to impose a halt to the illegal aggression. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Space Force scheduled to launch eighth X-37B mission United States Space Force Published July 28, 2025 By Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- he U.S. Space Force, in partnership with the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office, is scheduled to launch the eighth mission of the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV-8) on Aug. 21, 2025, from Kennedy Space Center, Florida. X-37B Mission 8 will launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, designated USSF-36, with a wide range of test and experimentation objectives. These operational demonstrations and experiments comprise of next-generation technologies including laser communications and the highest performing quantum inertial sensor ever tested in space. Mission partners include the Air Force Research Lab and the Defense Innovation Unit, respectively. Mission 8 will contribute to improving the resilience, efficiency and security of U.S. space- based communications architectures by conducting laser communications demonstrations involving proliferated commercial satellite networks in Low Earth Orbit. Laser communications are integral to the future of space communications as the shorter wavelength of infrared light increases the amount of data that can be sent with each transmission. Additionally, they are more secure than traditional radio frequency transmissions owing to the more targeted nature of laser beams. The use of proliferated relay networks enhances the resilience of U.S. space architectures by ensuring that they contain no single point of failure. These experiments come as part of a broader push across the U.S. Space Force to uphold the safety and security of the space domain by enhancing the resilience and flexibility of U.S. orbital systems. Commenting on the significance of this demonstration, Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman stated, "OTV-8's laser communications demonstration will mark an important step in the U.S. Space Force's ability to leverage proliferated space networks as part of a diversified and redundant space architectures. In so doing, it will strengthen the resilience, reliability, adaptability and data transport speeds of our satellite communications architecture." Additionally, Mission 8 will demonstrate the world's highest performing quantum inertial sensor ever used in space. This demonstration will inform accurate unaided navigation in space by detecting rotation and acceleration of atoms without reliance on satellite networks like traditional GPS. This technology is useful for navigation in GPS-denied environments and consequently will enhance the navigational resilience of U.S. spacecraft in the face of current and emerging threats. As quantum inertial sensors would be useful for navigation in cis-lunar space, they additionally promise to push the technological frontiers of long-distance space travel and exploration. Speaking on the quantum inertial sensor demonstration, Col. Ramsey Horn, Space Delta 9 commander, asserted, "OTV 8's quantum inertial sensor demonstration is a welcome step forward for operational resilience in space. Whether navigating beyond Earth based orbits in cislunar space or operating in GPS-denied environments, quantum inertial sensing allows for robust navigation capabilities when GPS navigation is not possible. Ultimately, this technology contributes significantly to our thrust within the Fifth Space Operations Squadron and across the Space Force guaranteeing movement and maneuverability even in GPS-denied environments." The Fifth Space Operations Squadron, within USSF Delta 9 conducts day-to-day on-orbit operations of the X-37B in partnership with the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office. The X-37B is a dynamic and responsive spacecraft responsible for conducting a range of tests and experiments that expedite the development of critical next-generation technologies and operational concepts for reusable space capabilities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Japan's first space defense guidelines hyping Chinese, Russian 'killer satellites' distort facts, find excuse for Tokyo's space weaponization: expert Global Times By Liu Xuanzun and Liang Rui Published: Jul 29, 2025 12:31 PM Japan's Defense Ministry on Monday released its first guidelines allegedly aimed at enhancing its defense in outer space, using so-called "killer satellites" developed by China and Russia as excuses, according to media reports on Tuesday. A Chinese expert said that Japan's rhetoric distorted the facts about China's peaceful space activities and unjustly smeared China on the topic of space development. Japan's release of the "space domain defense guidelines" is a move claimed to "brace for increasing activities by China and Russia in the new domain of warfare," according to Japanese media outlet Kyodo News on Tuesday. In the guidelines, the Japanese Defense Ministry asserted that some countries, including China and Russia, have been advancing the development of "killer satellites," which Japanese side claimed are designed to neutralize or destroy the space assets of other countries, according to Kyodo News. The Japanese guidelines claimed that countries including China and Russia conducted tests on rendezvous and proximity operations of satellites, which the Japanese side claims contribute to the development of "killer satellites." China has always been committed to the peaceful use of outer space, opposes the weaponization of outer space and arms race, according to a statement about the prevention of outer space weaponization published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry and updated on April this year, highlighting China's active efforts for the negotiation of relevant legal instruments by the international community including Russia. Fu Qianshao, a Chinese military affairs expert, dismissed the Japanese claims as a hype of "China threat" rhetoric to promote Japan's militarization in outer space. He told the Global Times on Tuesday that the Japanese guideline deliberately misinterpreted China's normal, peaceful space activities. There have been media reports suggesting China is developing in-orbit refueling and repair among other capabilities, which require close proximity operations between satellites. Scientific tests like these, if confirmed, could greatly extend a satellite's service life and enhance its economic value. It is wrong to label such a satellite as a "killer satellite" or assume weapon purposes simply because one satellite approaches another, Fu said. The Japanese guidelines further claimed that Japan's Self-Defense Force and Japanese private companies should boost defense capabilities of satellites. Japan also plans to boost its capabilities in detecting other countries' missile launches, securing satellite communications and jamming other countries' communications, Yomiuri Shimbun, another Japanese media outlet, reported on Tuesday. In response to Japan's defense development plans and its hype of "China threat" rhetoric, Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Jiang Bin said at a press briefing on July 16 that Japan, in an attempt to find excuse for its military expansion, had fabricated false narratives, grossly hyped the "China threat." Japanese militarism once inflicted profound suffering on China and other Asian neighbors. Instead of seriously reflecting on its past, Japan is once again showing dangerous tendencies toward military expansion - significantly increasing its defense budget, steadily loosening restrictions on arms exports, forming small military blocs to promote confrontation, and even suggesting revisions to its Three Non-Nuclear Principles. These actions gravely violate Japan's Peace Constitution and its exclusively defense-oriented policy, severely undermine the post-war international order, and pose a serious challenge to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. They have already triggered deep concern and heightened vigilance among neighboring Asian countries and the broader international community, Jiang said. We urge Japan to profoundly learn from historical lessons, stop smearing and accusing China, and take concrete actions to promote the sound and stable development of China-Japan relations, the Chinese spokesperson said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address D-Day at Shoalwater Bay By Lieutenant Tahlia Merigan 28 July 2025 As dawn broke over Shoalwater Bay, the Combined Task Group 628.1 waited in various landing crafts ready to assault the beach. The battle group comprised of the Australian Amphibious Force working alongside navies and marines from the Republic of Korea, the US and France, and marines from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. They worked on amphibious platforms ROKS Marado, and HMA Ships Canberra and Choules, supported by their escort group of USS Higgins, ROKS Wang Geon and FSS Vendemiaire. Forty-eight hours prior to the main assault, a joint pre-landing force was deployed to secure the beach, with personnel from French Armed Forces 21st Marine Infantry Battalion and Australian Army 2nd Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment, working together to clear the beach for the main assault waves. Commander Australian Task Force Captain Chris Doherty, of the Royal Australian Navy, said the joint pre-landing force conducted shaping operations in the amphibious objective area in preparation for the assault, supported by the combined maritime force. "What we can expect is that [the maritime force] will support the soldiers ashore, whilst they carry out their mission to clear the enemy forces out of the area," Captain Doherty said. "In support of our amphibious operations, we have an escort force consisting of a US destroyer, a Korean destroyer and a French frigate, which are conducting operations at sea to ensure that our amphibious ships are safe while projecting our land forces ashore." Commander Landing Forces Colonel Judd Finger said Talisman Sabre was all about the international community forging close operational partnerships to ensure seamless interoperability in the future, whatever it may hold. "We conducted a joint forcible entry operation of up to a thousand troops by air assault; rotary wing operations by surface assault using amphibious armoured vehicles and landing craft; and complex land operations alongside our Republic of Korea partners with combined arms fighting systems to fight enemy forces ashore," Colonel Finger said. One essential part of the assault was the ground combat element made up of about 350 personnel from 1st Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR). Commanding Officer 1RAR Lieutenant Colonel Ben Farrell said this was quite a large multinational exercise for his battlegroup. "We've got a Japanese marine platoon embedded in with our Bravo company, and we also have given up one of our platoons to be embedded in the Japanese amphibious force, and a platoon to be embedded with the Republic of Korean amphibious force," Lieutenant Colonel Farrell said. 1RAR has the role of securing the beachhead, then setting the conditions for the Republic of Korea marine battalion to push forward and seize Sam Hill Airfield in Shoalwater Bay. "Our task, when we disembark, is to clear a path for allied forces, a clear route and clear any threats that might be in a certain range from the landing areas on the beach," Lieutenant Colonel Farrell said. "Amphibious operations is a unique and complex environment and there are a number of challenges, especially in battlespace coordination." Other elements, including 3rd Regiment, Royal Australian Engineers and a Logistic Combat Element, as well as specialists such as Joint Fires and Effects, supported the infantry company from 1RAR. Captain Samuel Cox, of 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, said in his role as a joint fires team commander he brings a certain expertise and specialty, along with his team, to support 1RAR to conduct joint fires and effects liaison and coordination in support of their manoeuvre. "Joint fires and effects is the term to describe all assets that can be brought to bear against the enemy or to shape them," Caption Cox said. "This can be in a kinetic sense including field artillery, naval gunfire support, fixed or rotary wing attack aviation or non-kinetic effects such as information warfare and electronic warfare. "Amphibious operations is a unique and complex environment and there are a number of challenges, especially in battlespace coordination, that we don't get doing conventional out-field trips. "This has been a really good opportunity to test the coordination and the command element in order to ensure that fires are prosecuted deliberately and also with the minimum of delay." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Projecting air power and readiness at Talisman Sabre By Flight Lieutenant Sharon Sebastian 29 July 2025 From the roar of fighter jets cutting through the clouds, to the steady hum of surveillance aircraft scanning vast ocean stretches, the Royal Australian Air Force pushed the boundaries of air power during Exercise Talisman Sabre. From July 13 to 27, more than 5500 flight hours and 2000 sorties showcased the ability of Australia and its partners to project speed, precision and strength, flying a combined total of more than 3 million nautical miles - about 138 flights around the world. A total of 279 aircraft from Australia and partner nations participated in Talisman Sabre - while flying operations peaked at 200 sorties per day. The large-scale military exercise brought together more than 40,000 personnel from 19 nations. Activities took place across Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, the Northern Territory, New South Wales, Christmas Island and, for the first time, Papua New Guinea. Aircraft and aviators engaged in a wide range of complex missions including integrated air and missile defence, anti-submarine warfare, multi-domain strike operations, base response drills, force projection, and distributed logistics and mobility. Commander Air Task Group 640.7 Air Commodore Louise desJardins said Talisman Sabre was not just about flying aircraft. "It was about preparing for complex and demanding scenarios, and keeping our highly competent aviators at the top of their game," Air Commodore desJardins said. The 11th iteration of Talisman Sabre was the largest Australia-US bilaterally planned, multilaterally conducted exercise with partner nations. Also supporting the efforts were Canada, France, Fiji, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Tonga and the United Kingdom. "Talisman Sabre gave us a chance to train in a high-end, realistic environment where we tested our skills, teamwork and technology under pressure," Air Commodore desJardins said. "It was a powerful demonstration of how Air Force contributes to Australia's defence - by projecting air power as part of an integrated force - alongside our international partners and colleagues in the land, sea, cyber and space domains. "We also exercised key airbase operations from austere environments, including air traffic control, medical support, air base command and integrated security protection with the Australian Army, which is essential for Defence's projection of air power from northern bases." Nearly every aircraft type in the Australian fleet was involved, including the F-35A Lightning II, P-8A Poseidon, C-17A Globemaster III, C-130J Hercules and C-27J Spartan, with air battle management coordinated between 3 Control and Reporting Unit, 114 Mobile Control and Reporting Unit and 2 Squadron's E-7A Wedgetail. While the exercise tested people and platforms under pressure, it also provided critical opportunities to strengthen international partnerships, while improving the ability to work together in real-world operations. "Australia, alongside the 18 participating countries, built trust, improved how we worked together and ensured we can operate effectively as a combined force," Air Commodore desJardins said. "Through training like this, we ensure that when our country needs us, we're ready." Talisman Sabre remains a cornerstone of Australia's defence cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and a key platform for strengthening regional security through collaboration, integration and capability. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Cadence Design Systems Agrees to Plead Guilty and Pay Over $140 Million for Unlawfully Exporting Semiconductor Design Tools to a Restricted PRC Military University Monday, July 28, 2025 For Immediate Release Office of Public Affairs Note: View a copy of the plea agreement and criminal information. The Counterintelligence and Export Control Section (CES) of the Justice Department's National Security Division (NSD), and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of California (NDCA) today announced that Cadence Design Systems Inc. (Cadence), a multinational electronic design automation (EDA) technology company headquartered in San Jose, California, has agreed to plead guilty to resolve charges that Cadence committed criminal violations of export controls by selling EDA hardware, software, and semiconductor design intellectual property (IP) technology to the National University of Defense Technology (NUDT). NUDT, a university in the People's Republic of China (PRC) under the leadership of the PRC's Central Military Commission, was added to the U.S. Department of Commerce's Entity List in February 2015 due to its use of U.S.-origin components to produce supercomputers believed to support nuclear explosive simulation and military simulation activities in the PRC. Today, the Department filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California a criminal information charging Cadence with conspiracy to commit export control violations and the Department's plea agreement with Cadence, pursuant to which the company has agreed to plead guilty and pay criminal penalties of nearly $118 million to resolve the charges. In addition to the criminal charges, the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) today announced the resolution of a parallel civil enforcement action against Cadence in which Cadence has agreed to pay over $95 million in civil penalties. The Department of Justice and BIS have coordinated the resolution of the parallel criminal and civil actions, with each agreeing to credit against their respective fines a portion of the payments made by Cadence to satisfy the other agency's fine. After the Department of Justice and BIS credit payments made by Cadence under the coordinated agreements, Cadence will pay aggregate net criminal and civil penalties and forfeiture totaling more than $140 million. "Cadence has agreed to accept responsibility for unlawfully exporting sensitive semiconductor design tools to a restricted Chinese military university and has implemented a strong export compliance program to help prevent any further illegal transmission of American technology," said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. "American ingenuity is one of our Nation's most precious assets, and the National Security Division will vigorously enforce U.S. export control laws to protect the technological advantage we enjoy because of that ingenuity." "Export controls safeguard America's advanced technological know-how from falling into the wrong hands, which is particularly important in the Silicon Valley as the epicenter of groundbreaking innovation," said U.S. Attorney Craig H. Missakian for the Northern District of California. "With this plea, Cadence has admitted to unlawfully exporting its semiconductor design technology to a restricted PRC military university using a front company, and accepted responsibility for its wrongdoing. Cadence's remedial measures are a positive step toward rectifying the company's violations of export control laws and demonstrating corporate responsibility." "Protecting the U.S. semiconductor industry is critical to our national defense," said Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI's Counterintelligence Division. "Working with NUDT, which has been on the entity list for a decade for its work to advance China's military capabilities, is unacceptable. The FBI will stop at nothing to defend the homeland from China's Communist Party." According to Cadence's admissions and court documents, from February 2015 to April 2021, Cadence and its indirectly owned and wholly controlled subsidiary in the PRC, Cadence Design Systems Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd. (Cadence China), engaged in a conspiracy to commit export control violations in connection with the provision of EDA tools that were subject to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to NUDT through Central South CAD Center (CSCC), an alias for NUDT, and another associated entity, Phytium Technology Co. Ltd. (Phytium), without seeking or obtaining the requisite licenses from BIS. Specifically, Cadence, Cadence China, and their employees exported, reexported, and transferred in-country U.S.-origin EDA tools to CSCC in the PRC, despite having knowledge that CSCC was an alias for NUDT. As a result, Cadence and Cadence China exported and caused to be exported EDA tools at least 59 times through September 2020, when Cadence terminated Cadence China's business relationship with CSCC due to CSCC's association with NUDT. In court documents, Cadence admitted that Cadence China employees installed EDA hardware on NUDT's Changsha, China, campus and that NUDT personnel downloaded EDA software and IP technology from Cadence's download portals while Cadence and Cadence China, through its employees, had knowledge that NUDT had been added to the Entity List. On Feb. 18, 2015, the same day that NUDT was added to the Entity List, Cadence's export control officer emailed Cadence and Cadence China employees that NUDT had been added to the Entity List "meaning that export licenses will be required if sales are made." Further, in March 2016, a Cadence China employee authored a presentation for a quarterly sales review meeting with her colleagues stating (as translated from Chinese) that as of Feb. 18, 2015, the U.S. Department of Commerce had "embargoed" four national supercomputer centers in the PRC, including NUDT, due to U.S. microprocessor chips being used in the "TianHe" supercomputing systems believed to be used for nuclear explosion simulation. Cadence also admitted that its employees who conducted work at CSCC's location on NUDT's campus knew about connections between CSCC and the PRC military. According to Cadence's admissions and court documents, employees of Cadence China did not disclose to and/or concealed from other Cadence personnel, including Cadence's export compliance personnel, that exports to CSCC were in fact intended for delivery to NUDT and/or the PRC military. For example, in May 2015, a few months after NUDT was added to the Entity List, Cadence's then-head of sales in China emailed colleagues, cautioning them to refer to their customer as CSCC in English and NUDT only in Chinese characters, writing that "the subject [was] too sensitive." Further, in October 2019, a Cadence China employee instructed another to recall and recirculate an updated version of a weekly email on Cadence China's customers in the PRC. The updated version of the weekly email removed a reference to the People's Liberation Army of the PRC in relation to CSCC that was written in the original version. Employees of Cadence's subsidiaries, including employees of Cadence China involved in sales to CSCC, also received sales commissions that incentivized achieving sales quotas as part of their compensation packages. Further, in October 2020, while Cadence and Cadence China had knowledge that items previously sold and exported to CSCC had in fact been exported to NUDT in violation of U.S. export control laws, Cadence consented to CSCC's assignment to Phytium, a semiconductor company closely associated with CSCC and NUDT in the PRC, of CSCC's contracts for Cadence EDA tools. Prior to the transfer of Cadence's business from CSCC to Phytium in or about October 2020, Cadence's business with CSCC included contractual agreements with Phytium, reflecting Phytium's ongoing collaboration with CSCC and NUDT during the period in which CSCC was used as an alias for NUDT. Cadence, through its subsidiaries, including Cadence China also had knowledge that Cadence China's business with CSCC involved Phytium, and that NUDT personnel were affiliated with Phytium. Some of Cadence China's contracts with CSCC listed Phytium as the contractual party and stated that the work would occur at NUDT. Internal Cadence communications show certain Cadence employees' understanding that CSCC and Phytium were effectively the same entity both before and after the decision to transfer Cadence China's business from CSCC to Phytium. Cadence and Cadence China transferred U.S.-origin EDA software and IP technology to Phytium until February 2021. In March 2021, Cadence placed Phytium on export hold as a result of its internal compliance review and discontinued transactions with Phytium without completing all of the originally anticipated transfers, including any hardware transfers. Phytium was later designated on the Entity List in April 2021. CES and NDCA entered into the plea agreement with Cadence after considering the factors set forth in the Department's Principles of Federal Prosecution of Business Organizations and the National Security Division Enforcement Policy for Business Organizations (NSD Enforcement Policy). The Department reached this resolution with Cadence based on a number of factors, including Cadence's failure to voluntarily disclose the misconduct to NSD pursuant to the NSD Enforcement Policy; the nature and seriousness of the offense, which included exports of sensitive semiconductor design tools and technology to a restricted PRC military university involved in the development of supercomputers with applications for military and nuclear explosive simulations, and which included Cadence agreeing to an assignment of the hardware and software contracts to another PRC-based company despite being aware that those items had been unlawfully exported to a restricted PRC military university; Cadence's willingness to accept responsibility for the actions of its employees and agents, including its subsidiary Cadence China, by entering into the plea agreement with the Department and resolving the parallel civil investigation with BIS; and Cadence's efforts to remediate the root cause of the offense conduct by enhancing and agreeing to enhance further its export control compliance program. Cadence received partial credit for its cooperation with the Department's investigation, which involved collecting and disclosing relevant evidence, facilitating interviews with certain employees, making detailed factual presentations, and agreeing to toll the statute of limitations, but Cadence did not receive full credit for cooperation because it failed proactively to obtain and disclose to the government relevant communications, and it failed proactively to facilitate interviews of certain China-based employees with information relevant to the offense conduct. Accordingly, the amount of the criminal monetary penalty attributable to the criminal fine reflects a 20 percent reduction off the statutory maximum fine. The plea agreement is subject to the approval of a federal district judge in the Northern District of California. BIS's Office of Export Enforcement and the FBI investigated the case. Chief Counsel Ian C. Richardson, Deputy Chief Counsel Christian J. Nauvel, and Trial Attorney Emma Dinan Ellenrieder of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, together with Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Cheng of the National Security and Special Prosecutions Section of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of California, are prosecuting this case. Topics: Export Control National Security Components: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Security Division (NSD) USAO - California, Northern Press Release Number: 25-793 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA Navy's new Z-20J utility helicopters seen on Type 075 amphibious assault ship in official media coverage Global Times By Liu Xuanzun Published: Jul 28, 2025 09:59 PM After making its public debut at the Airshow China 2024, the Z-20J helicopter of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy was seen in an official media report on Monday on board a Type 075 amphibious assault ship. A Chinese military affairs expert said that this combination offers formidable capabilities during amphibious landing operations. A program aired on the military channel of China Central Television (CCTV) on Monday evening made coverage on a recent meeting of the PLA Navy highlighting exemplary service members. The program featured a video clip showing the Type 075 amphibious assault ship Hainan (Hull 31) sailing at sea, without providing additional details of the voyage, including its date, location or mission. It showed four Z-20J naval utility helicopters and eight Z-8C naval transport helicopters lined up on the flight deck of the large amphibious vessel. The baseline version of the Z-20 utility helicopter made its debut at the National Day military parade on October 1, 2019 in Beijing. Although there had been many analyses, unofficial sightings and media reports about a shipborne version of the Z-20, it was finally officially unveiled as the Z-20J at the Airshow China 2024 held in Zhuhai, South China's Guangdong Province in November 2024. At the Airshow China 2024, Z-20J and Z-8C helicopters performed an integrated air-ground coordinated assault drill carrying marine corps personnel and related weapons and equipment, with the aim of demonstrating a three-dimensional combat operation featuring rapid strikes and direct engagements, while testing the forces' capabilities in command organization, firepower coordination, and combat synergy under realistic conditions, the Global Times learned from the PLA Navy at the airshow. Compared to the baseline version of the Z-20, the Z-20J is optimized to be able to adapt to various types of warships, and conducted takeoff and landing under complex and challenging sea conditions. Zhang Junshe, a Chinese military affairs expert, told the Global Times that the Z-20J has outstanding performance in terms of fire support, maritime assault and transport. The helicopter can use its missiles, rockets and machine guns to engage and suppress hostile ground targets while friendly forces conduct airborne or amphibious landing missions. The Z-20J, together with the Z-8C, can be carried by large vessels such as the Type 075 amphibious assault ship and the Type 071 amphibious landing dock. The helicopters can bypass obstacles on beachheads from the air and carry out vertical landing behind the enemy defense lines, greatly boosting the success rate of amphibious landing missions and operational effectiveness, Zhang said. The PLA Navy currently has three Type 075 amphibious assault ships in service that are known to the general public. It also launched in December 2024 the world's first electromagnetic catapult-equipped amphibious assault ship, the Type 076. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese FM says US' unreasonable detention of Chinese scholar will finally damage its own image, reputation Global Times By Global Times Published: Jul 28, 2025 08:04 PM When asked to comment on the recent unreasonable detention of a Chinese scholar conducting research in the US by the US law enforcement department, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said that for some time, the US has been overstretching the concept of national security, frequently harassing, interrogating, and even arresting and prosecuting multiple Chinese students and researchers in the US on unfounded charges. Guo said that this seriously infringes upon the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese students and scholars and severely disrupts cultural exchanges between China and the US, particularly in educational cooperation, ultimately damaging the US's own image and international reputation. China urges the United States to stop engaging in "presumption of guilt" and political manipulation, stop politicized and discriminative law enforcement targeting Chinese students and scholars in the US, Guo said, calling on the US side to back its words with concrete actions in genuinely welcoming Chinese students to study in the country. "China will resolutely safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese students and scholars abroad, and also reminds those studying in the United States to remain vigilant about potential risks," the spokesperson said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China urges US to stop targeting Chinese students, scholars: FM spokesperson Global Times By Xinhua Published: Jul 28, 2025 06:20 PM China on Monday called on the United States to stop politically motivated and discriminatory law enforcement against Chinese students and scholars in the United States. Foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the remarks at a regular news briefing after another Chinese scholar had been unreasonably detained by US law enforcement authorities. For some time, the United States has been overstretching the concept of national security, repeatedly harassing, interrogating, and even arresting and prosecuting multiple Chinese students and researchers on unfounded charges, Guo said. "This has severely undermined the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese students and scholars, significantly disrupted people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States, particularly in educational cooperation, and ultimately damaged the US own image and international reputation," Guo added. China urges the United States to stop engaging in "presumption of guilt" and political manipulation, Guo said, calling on the US side to back its words with concrete actions in genuinely welcoming Chinese students to study in the country. "China will resolutely safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese students and scholars abroad, and also reminds those studying in the United States to remain vigilant about potential risks," the spokesperson said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China, US gear up for pivotal trade talks People's Daily Online By WANG KEJU in Beijing and XING YI in Stockholm (Chinadaily.com.cn) 08:46, July 28, 2025 As high-ranking negotiation teams from China and the United States gear up for the third round of trade talks, set to begin soon in Sweden, analysts said Beijing will arrive with a clear and consistent message: Equal dialogue and mutually beneficial cooperation is the only path forward. The meeting, following talks in Geneva in May and London in June, carries significant implications beyond the two nations' own borders, the analysts added, as the global community looks to the two economic heavyweights to stake out more common ground and bring greater certainty to the world economy. "Three high-level trade talks in three months indicate a mutual desire to de-escalate tensions and stabilize economic ties," said Lyu Xiang, a research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The trade talks come ahead of the Aug 12 deadline for when a 90-day pause, agreed to by Beijing and Washington in early May to scale back triple-digit tariffs, is scheduled to expire. China's sincerity has been extended in its efforts with concrete actions to implement the consensus reached by both sides, Lyu said. "China's approach is rooted in its belief that the China-US economic relationship should be one of mutual benefit and win-win cooperation," Lyu said. "The ball is now in Washington's court to respond in kind and work together toward substantive solutions." Michael Schumann, chairman of the board of the German Federal Association for Economic Development and Foreign Trade, said, "Ultimately, any progress made in Stockholm that leads to more stable and constructive trade relations will be a positive signal for all of us." The world is watching closely to see how the two major powers will navigate their differences and find common ground during the trade talks in Sweden, as the outcome of the talks will be felt by economies and businesses across the globe. The World Bank slashed its 2025 global growth forecast from 2.7 percent to 2.3 percent in June, citing trade tensions and policy uncertainty following US imposition of wide-ranging tariffs. Jack Perry, chairman of the 48 Group and CEO of London Export Corp, said that as the world's two largest economies, the US and China have both the power and the responsibility to forge a sensible agreement not perfect alignment, but a credible display of constructive stability. "What markets, businesses and sovereign wealth managers are looking for is not grand promises, but a stable baseline. These talks may not resolve every complex issue, but they can and should reaffirm that in an evolving world, cooperation remains not only possible, but essential," Perry said. However, analysts cautioned that the erratic nature of Washington, coupled with its unilateral and bullying style, serves as a reminder that concessions sacrificing national interests or the multilateral-trading system are never an option. "As China engages in strategic negotiations with the US, it is not just fighting for itself, but for the entire international community, which has a stake in the rules-based global trading system," said Chen Wenling, former chief economist at the China Center for International Economic Exchanges. The US initially aimed for 90 deals done in 90 days before the "Liberation Day" tariff policy was enforced. However, despite the initial push, the effort has yielded only a few deals. The European Union's member countries voted on Thursday to approve counter-tariffs on 93 billion euros ($109 billion) worth of US goods if the two sides fail to reach a trade deal. They would not be imposed until Aug 7. Chen noted that Beijing's decisive and forceful countermeasures against Washington have served as a rallying call to members of the international community to stand firm for their own rights and interests. "China's door to talks with the US about their trade dispute is always open, but China will not yield on key issues of principle," Chen added. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun's Regular Press Conference on July 28, 2025 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China Updated: July 28, 2025 18:50 Folha de S.Paulo: The U.S. government threatens to impose 50 percent tariffs against Brazil on August 1, a move seen as "setting example" to others in Latin America and BRICS. Do you have a comment on that? What can Brazil expect from China and BRICS in terms of opening markets to products like airplanes? Guo Jiakun: China previously made clear its position on U.S. tariff hikes on Brazil. Let me stress that tariff wars have no winners, and unilateral practices serve no one's interests. China stands ready to work with Brazil, and other Latin American and Caribbean countries and BRICS countries to jointly uphold the WTO-centered multilateral trading system and international fairness and justice. On the cooperation on airplanes that you mentioned, let me reaffirm that China attaches importance to its result-oriented cooperation with Brazil, including cooperation on aviation. We stand ready to promote relevant cooperation based on market principles and give a boost to respective national development. RT TV: Zelenskyy said on Sunday that he had approved the new sanctions of the Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council. He said in a statement restrictions from the 18th sanctions package have now been applied to 53 individuals and entities from China and other countries. What's China's comment? Guo Jiakun: China, as always, opposes unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or authorization of the UN Security Council. We urge the Ukrainian side to correct its mistake at once and undo the negative effect. China will firmly safeguard the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies. CCTV: It's reported that the head of Taiwan's so-called foreign affairs department recently made a "private" trip to Japan and met with Japanese politicians, including former economic security minister Sanae Takaichi and director of the LDP Youth Division Nakasone Yasutaka. What's China's comment? Guo Jiakun: By allowing Lin Chia-lung to make the so-called "private" trip, Japan provided a platform for "Taiwan independence" forces to engage in anti-China separatist activities, seriously violated the basic norms governing international relations and the principles in the four political documents between China and Japan, and sent out a gravely wrong signal. China strongly deplores and firmly opposes it. We've lodged serious representations to the Japanese side in Beijing and Tokyo and made strong protests. Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. The Taiwan question is at the core of China's core interests, and bears on the political foundation of China-Japan relations and basic trust between the two countries. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the World Anti-Fascist War, and the restoration of Taiwan. Japan's colonial rule over Taiwan lasted for more than 50 years and Japan bears serious historical responsibilities to the Chinese people. We urge Japan to abide by the principles in the four political documents between China and Japan, act on its solemn commitment, deeply reflect on and learn lessons from history, act all the more prudently on the Taiwan question, not to harm China's sovereignty in any way and not to send any wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces. Japan should never underestimate the firm resolve, will and ability of the Chinese people to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity. China Review News: It's reported that Hong Kong police issued arrest warrants for 19 people involved in organizing, establishing or participating in overseas a subversive organization named the "Hong Kong Parliament." We noted that some countries pointed their fingers at this issue. What's your comment? Guo Jiakun: China deplores and opposes relevant countries' accusations against the law enforcement operation of the government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. We firmly support the Hong Kong SAR government in fulfilling their duties in accordance with the law and the Hong Kong police in lawfully carrying out the law enforcement operation. The people on the wanted list that you mentioned organized an illegal election to establish a so-called "Hong Kong Parliament" to subvert state power. Their egregious move severely violates the National Security Law, challenges the principles of "One Country, Two Systems," which is a red line that must not be crossed, and endangers national sovereignty, security and development interests. Hong Kong police's lawful issuance of arrest warrants for them is fully just to uphold the rule of law in Hong Kong, necessary to defend national sovereignty and security, and legitimate to safeguard the lasting peace of Hong Kong. It's in line with international law and common practices. Hong Kong affairs are purely China's internal affairs. Relevant countries should respect China's sovereignty and Hong Kong's rule of law, and stop emboldening anti-China, destabilizing elements. Reuters: The Thai acting prime minister said on Monday that China had reached out to help resolve the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. Is this accurate? Could you give us more details about what help China offered? Guo Jiakun: Cambodia and Thailand are and will always be each other's neighbors. Both countries are China's friends and neighbors as well. Maintaining good-neighborliness and mutual trust and properly managing differences serves the two countries' fundamental and long-term interests, and the region's peace and stability. China is deeply saddened by the casualties inflicted on both sides and expresses heartfelt sympathies. We hope both sides will bear in mind the interests of the two peoples, cherish peace and good-neighborliness, exercise calm and restraint, come to a ceasefire as soon as possible, settle differences peacefully through dialogue and consultation, and restore peace and stability along the border soon. Both Cambodia and Thailand are important members of ASEAN. ASEAN has been working intensively for days to bring about a ceasefire between the two sides. China commends it and welcomes all efforts conducive to deescalation. China will maintain its fair and impartial position and continue having close communication with both sides, actively facilitate talks for peace and play a constructive role for a ceasefire. Global Times: We've learned that recently, another Chinese scholar who has conducted research in the U.S. was groundlessly detained by the U.S. law enforcement agencies. What's the Ministry's comment? Guo Jiakun: For quite some time, the U.S. has overstretched the concept of national security to frequently harass and interrogate Chinese students and researchers in the U.S., and even arrest and prosecute them by trumpeting up charges. This severely infringes on the lawful rights and interests of Chinese students and scholars, disturbs China-U.S. people-to-people and cultural exchanges, in particular education cooperation, and will end up tarnishing the U.S.'s own image and reputation in the world. We urge the U.S. to stop presumption of guilt and political manipulation, stop its politically driven and discriminatory law enforcement targeting Chinese students and scholars in the U.S., and deliver on the U.S. leadership's commitment to welcome Chinese students to study in the U.S. China will firmly safeguard the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese students and scholars overseas, and remind students in the U.S. to stay alert against relevant risks. Reuters: The U.S. and China are about to start trade talks in Sweden. What is China's position going into the talks? Guo Jiakun: For the specifics of the economic and trade talks between China and the U.S. in Sweden, you may stay tuned. Let me stress that China's position on the economic and trade issue is consistent and clear. We hope that the U.S. will work with China to act on the important common understandings reached by the two presidents during the phone call, make good use of the consultation mechanism, have more consensus and cooperation and less misperception through communication and dialogue on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit, and promote the steady, sound and sustainable development of China-U.S. relations. Bloomberg: Just now you said that the charges that the Hong Kong government has made or the charges that they put against 19 people overseas are in accordance with international law. Can you tell me specifically which international laws allow the Hong Kong government to charge Australian nationals for actions and comments in Australia? The Australian foreign minister specifically protested the actions of Hong Kong as interference in Australia's judicial sovereignty. Can you please point to the international laws that Hong Kong is basing these actions on? Guo Jiakun: Hong Kong follows the rule of law. All laws in Hong Kong must be observed and those who break the law must be held accountable. This is the basic principle. No one shall engage in unlawful activities and attempt to escape justice. Pursuant to the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, the Hong Kong police carries out the law enforcement operation targeting anti-China, destabilizing elements overseas, which is in line with international law and common practices. We firmly support the Hong Kong SAR in vigorously implementing the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, and the Hong Kong police in cracking down on anti-China, destabilizing elements who escaped overseas. AFP: Yesterday, the Taiwan authorities' recall vote against lawmakers from the opposition party Kuomintang failed. What's China's comment? Guo Jiakun: The spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council made statements on this. The results of the vote demonstrate that the DPP authorities' political manipulation goes against the will of the people on the island and finds no support. Let me stress that there is but one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. The Taiwan question is China's internal affairs, which brooks no external interference. Reuters: Regarding the trade talks, the EU said that their recent deal with the U.S. was "not ideal" but "the best" deal that they could get. Would China be willing to accept a sub-optimal deal if that is all that is on the table or is China willing to walk away from the talks if necessary? Guo Jiakun: On the trade deal between the U.S. and the EU that you mentioned, let me say that China, as always, believes that all parties should resolve economic and trade differences through equal-footed dialogue, uphold a sound environment for international trade and economic cooperation, and observe the WTO rules. That said, we firmly oppose any party's move to strike a deal at the cost of China's interests. AFP: CK Hutchison Holdings Limited said today that it plans to bring on a major strategic Chinese investor for a consortium backed by the U.S. to jointly discuss the deal on ports in the Panama Canal. What's China's comment? Guo Jiakun: We noted the relevant statement. The Chinese government will conduct lawful regulation, firmly safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, and uphold justice and fairness in the market. Bloomberg: The Financial Times reported earlier today that the U.S. has frozen all new export controls against Chinese entities as a gesture ahead of the trade talks and that China has agreed to do the same. Can you comment on the report from the Financial Times that the U.S. is freezing any new export controls on Chinese entities? Guo Jiakun: The trade and economic cooperation between the two countries are mutually beneficial in nature. We, as always, hope that the U.S. will work with China to act on the important common understandings reached by the two presidents during the phone call, have more consensus and cooperation and less misperception through communication and dialogue on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit, and promote the steady, sound and sustainable development of China-U.S. relations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea's Kim Yo Jong slams South's 'blind trust' in US, rejects talks Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 8:37 AM North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's sister, Kim Yo Jong, has rejected the prospect of dialogue with South Korea, criticizing Seoul's "blind trust" in its alliance with the United States. Kim said on Monday that Pyongyang had "no interest" in efforts by the administration of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to improve relations between the neighbors, highlighting that South Korea's ongoing military ties with Washington made any efforts at rapprochement pointless. Lee was elected in June after former President Yoon Suk Yeol was removed from office over his botched martial law attempt. "We did not care who is elected president or what policy is being pursued in the ROK and, therefore, have not made any assessment of it so far," Kim said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, referring to South Korea by its official name Republic of Korea (ROK). "When only the 50-odd days since Lee Jae Myung's assumption to power are brought to light ... their blind trust to the ROK-US alliance and their attempt to stand in confrontation with the DPRK are little short of their predecessor's," Kim said, using the official acronym for North Korea. "We clarify once again the official stand that no matter what policy is adopted and whatever proposal is made in Seoul, we have no interest in it and there is neither the reason to meet nor the issue to be discussed," she added. During his inauguration at Rotunda hall in the National Assembly in Seoul on June 4, South Korea's Lee promised to reopen dialogue with North Korea and restore peace on the Korean Peninsula. Lee, who hails from the liberal Democratic Party of Korea, said he plans to "deter North Korean nuclear and military provocations while opening communication channels and pursuing dialogue and cooperation to build peace on the Korean Peninsula." Lee's government has halted anti-Pyongyang frontline loudspeaker broadcasts, taken steps to ban activists from flying balloons with propaganda leaflets across the border, and repatriated North Koreans who had drifted south in wooden boats months earlier. Kim, however, rejected the administration's gestures in her statement, calling the loudspeaker suspensions "nothing but a reversible turning back of what they should not have done in the first place." "In other words, it is not the work worthy of appreciation," she said. Kim pointed out that if the new South Korean president thinks he can sweet-talk them into reconciling the DPRK-ROK relations, he is making a "serious miscalculation." "If the ROK ... expected that it could reverse all the results it had made with a few sentimental words, nothing is more serious miscalculation than it." Kim added that the new government still "stands in confrontation" with North Korea. She mentioned the upcoming summertime South Korea-US military drills, which North Korea views as an invasion rehearsal. In October, North Korea revised its Constitution to declare the South a "hostile state" after Kim Jong Un called for the rejection of the long-held official goal of reunification. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Interview with Federal Foreign Minister Wadephul in Bild am Sonntag Germany Federal Foreign Office 28.07.2025 - Interview Published on 20.07.2025 Question: The Russian war of aggression is raging harder than it has for a long time. Is Ukraine losing? Johann Wadephul: No. The whole of Europe is standing at Ukraine's side, and the United States of America is also ready to provide continued support. That is largely thanks to an initiative by the Federal Chancellor. Question: What part has Friedrich Merz played in the US President's about-turn in his dealings with Putin? Johann Wadephul: Friedrich Merz has played a major part, because he has made it very clear from the outset that he is committed to Ukraine. He made that point in the Oval Office. And he made it in personal conversations at the G7. Friedrich Merz called Donald Trump and said that the United States was needed now. We can be happy that the Federal Chancellor has developed such a decent rapport with the US President and that Germany's voice is once again being heard in Washington. Question: Is Merz's voice also being heard in the tariffs dispute? President Trump is well and truly tightening the thumbscrews there. Johann Wadephul: Yes, of course. The Federal Chancellor is very intensively engaged on this issue. We Germans can count on having a Federal Chancellor who stands up for our interests and Europe's interests in Washington. Question: Can Ursula von der Leyen, who bears the lead responsibility for the tariff negotiations, stop Trump? Johann Wadephul: The United States will think very carefully before entering into a major dispute with the entire EU - because we stand shoulder to shoulder here. It would mean everything becoming more expensive for consumers in the States. The European Union is not defenceless, and the Commission, led by its President, stands up for our European interests. Question: Is Europe really united? Isn't there a risk of individual countries breaking away? Johann Wadephul: No. In fact, some countries are demanding even more stringency and toughness than Germany thinks is right. We believe that we will reach a positive agreement with the United States through negotiation. Europe stands united. Question: What are you aiming for in the negotiations? No tariffs at all? Or tariffs of, say, ten percent? Johann Wadephul: The complete dismantling of all tariffs would, of course, be our preferred approach. Question: Would you say that you and the Chancellor are of like mind on foreign policy? Johann Wadephul: Definitely. Question: Apparently the Chancellery wasn't pleased at your announcement that German defence spending would increase to five percent. Did you do it off your own bat? Johann Wadephul: The Federal Chancellery and the Federal Chancellor were and still are very happy with this initiative. Question: So it was you who took the initiative? Johann Wadephul: Yes, it was my initiative. As Foreign Minister, I do have ministerial responsibility. And I exercise it. I think that in this case it was absolutely right to do so. [...] Question: Turning to migration policy, a report by your ministry paints a very grim picture of Syria. It sounds as though it would scarcely be possible to deport people back there. Is that right? Johann Wadephul: We are watching Syria very carefully. And it's true that we have just seen some worrying unrest again in Druze areas. We call on the transitional government in Syria to ensure that all population groups, all religious groups, are integrated in this diverse country. And that no one need fear for life or limb. At the moment, however, we are of the view that we need to give this transitional government a serious chance. Question: Meaning? Johann Wadephul: Meaning, among other things, that we can work together - in such a way that it may in future be possible in principle to deport Syrians who have committed criminal offences back to Syria. I believe that this is in principle possible. Provided, of course, that the country develops in the direction I have just described. Question: There is also some controversy about admission programmes for Afghans. When will the next plane be landing in Germany? How many more people will be coming? Johann Wadephul: There are no further admission programmes. There are a certain number of Afghans who have already received positive responses from the Federal Republic of Germany. We will admit anyone who has one, unless there are security reasons for not doing so. We will not admit others. I cannot turn back the clock and change wrong decisions made by previous German Governments. Question: At the last count, there was talk of around 2300 people. Will they all be coming? Johann Wadephul: That is not certain. Question: And so you regard the programmes as a wrong decision? Johann Wadephul: I believe one can criticise the scope in which such decisions were taken in the past. Question: How does the accusation that the Government is going back on its word in this context make you feel? The wording in the coalition agreement said the programmes are being stopped. People imagine that means no one else will be coming. Johann Wadephul: We are implementing the coalition agreement. We are ending the programmes. We are not issuing a single new admission notice. But if such an admission notice is a year old, I can only change it by legal means. In other words, if it emerges that the person has a false identity. Or if the person is simply no longer there. Question: People abroad have some very different ways of pronouncing Wadephul. What's the funniest so far? Johann Wadephul: I thought "Wonderful" was wonderful. Question: Who called you that? Johann Wadephul: I don't remember. But it was so nice that I took note of it. Interview conducted by Nadja Aswad and Florian Kain NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ministry of Defence to set up testing facility in Mechanical & Material domain in Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence Posted On: 28 JUL 2025 5:42PM by PIB Delhi Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed an MoU to establish a state-of-the-art testing facility in Mechanical & Material domain Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor in Tiruchirappalli under the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS), on July 28, 2025 in New Delhi. The MoU was exchanged between the senior officials of MoD and Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Limited (TIDCO), in the presence of Secretary (Defence Production), MoD Shri Sanjeev Kumar. The DTIS provides up to 75% government funding as 'Grant-in-Aid', with the remaining 25% funded by the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), comprising Indian private entities and State/Central Governments. For the Mechanical & Material domain testing facility, Micro Labs, a private entity, is the lead SPV member. Other members of the SPV consortium are Tamilnadu Industrial Development Corporation Limited, Bharat Earth Movers Limited, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Vaidheswaran Industries. Upon the completion of the project, it will provide advanced testing equipment and services to both government and private industry, thus giving a boost to 'Aatmanirbharta' in defence. With an outlay of Rs 400 Crore, the DTIS was launched by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, to set up state-of-the-art testing facilities in collaboration with private industry and Central/State Government. The objective is to promote Aatmnirbharta through indigenous defence production and by reducing military equipment imports. To provide impetus to defence and aerospace sectors within the Defence Industrial Corridors, seven testing facilities were approved - four in Tamil Nadu and three in Uttar Pradesh. **** VK/SR/SS (Release ID: 2149370) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Overall politico-military objective of Operation Sindoor was to punish Pakistan for fighting a proxy war; Pak-sponsored terrorism is a well-planned strategy & fundamental rage: Raksha Mantri in Lok Sabha India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence "India demonstrated its military capability, national resolve, morality & political acumen" "Our military leadership demonstrated maturity & strategic wisdom expected from a responsible power like India" "If Pakistan again tries to carry out any nefarious act, we are fully prepared for an even more intense & decisive action" "Those who dream to give India a thousand cuts must never forget that this is the New India led by PM Modi which can go to any extent against terrorism" Shri Rajnath Singh assures the nation that the Govt, Armed Forces & democratic institutions are committed to taking every step necessary for unity, integrity & security of the nation Posted On: 28 JUL 2025 5:30PM by PIB Delhi "The objective of Operation Sindoor was not to cross the border or capture the territory, it was to eliminate terror nurseries which Pakistan had nurtured for years, and provide justice to the innocent families who lost their loved ones in cross-border attacks," said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh in the Lok Sabha on July 28, 2025. He termed Pakistan-sponsored terrorism as not "Random Madness", but a "well-planned strategy" and a "fundamental rage", emphasising that the overall politico-military objective of Operation Sindoor was to punish Pakistan for fighting a proxy war in the form of terrorism. Raksha Mantri asserted that, during Operation Sindoor, India not only demonstrated its military capability, but also its national resolve, morality and political acumen, stressing that New Delhi will give a decisive and clear answer to any terrorist attack. "Those who provide shelter and support to terrorism will not be spared. India is not going to bow down to any kind of nuclear blackmailing or other pressures," he said. Shri Rajnath Singh described the Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, when 26 innocent people, including a Nepali citizen, were killed on the basis of their religion, as the vilest example of inhumanity, which tested the limits of India's tolerance. He stated that, immediately after the attack, PM Modi held a high-level meeting, and the Armed Forces were given the freedom to take decisive action keeping in mind discretion, strategic understanding and regional security situation. "On May 06 & 07, 2025, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, which was not just a military action, but an effective and decisive demonstration of the Government's responsibility towards India's sovereignty, its identity & the people of the country, as well as its policy against terrorism. Our military leadership not only showed its maturity but also demonstrated the strategic wisdom which is expected from a responsible power like India," said Shri Rajnath Singh. Raksha Mantri highlighted that the Armed Forces carried out Operation Sindoor after studying every aspect in depth. "There were a number of options on the table, but we chose the option in which the terrorists and their hideouts suffered maximum damage and the common citizens of Pakistan did not suffer any harm. According to an estimate, over 100 terrorists, their trainers, handlers and associates were killed in well-coordinated strikes by our forces at nine terror infrastructure targets in Pakistan and PoK with precision. Most of the terrorists belonged to organisations like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen, which have the open support of Pakistan Army and ISI. Our action was completely in self-defence. It was neither provocative nor expansionist," he said. Shri Rajnath Singh further stated that, on May 10, 2025, Pakistan used missiles, drones, rockets and other long-range weapons on India, in addition to technologies related to electronic warfare, on a large scale, targeting Indian Air Force bases, Indian Army ammunition depots, airports and military cantonments. He informed the House with pride that India's air defence system, counter-drone system and electronic equipment completely foiled the attack, highlighting the effectiveness of S400, Akash Missile System and air defence guns. "Our security system was foolproof and every attack was foiled. Pakistan was unable to hit any of the Indian targets and none of the important assets were damaged," said Raksha Mantri, while appreciating the soldiers for their bravery & determination. Raksha Mantri termed India's response to Pakistan's attack as bold, firm and effective. "The Indian Air Force targeted Pakistan's airbases, Command and Control centers, Military infrastructures, and Air Defense Systems on the Western Front, and the mission was successfully accomplished. Our retaliatory attack was swift, proportionate and precise," he stated. Shri Rajnath Singh added that the Indian Armed Forces only targeted those who were continuously involved in trying to attack India while supporting terrorists. The objective was never to wage war but to compel the adversary to bow down through demonstrative use of force," he said, asserting that none of soldiers suffered any casualties during the operation. Raksha Mantri informed the House that, on the morning of May 10, when the Indian Air Force struck heavy blows on multiple Pakistani airfields, Pakistan conceded defeat and offered to cease hostilities. "The offer was accepted with the caveat that the operation was only paused, and if there was any future misadventure on the part of Pakistan, it would lead to the resumption of the operation. The attacks by the Indian Air Force, strong retaliation by the Indian Army along the LoC and the fear of Naval attacks forced Pakistan to surrender. And this defeat of Pakistan was not simply a failure, but a defeat of its military strength and morale," he said. Shri Rajnath Singh stated that on May 10, the DGMO of Pakistan contacted the DGMO of India & appealed to halt the military operations, and after formal talks on May 12 between the two DGMOs, both sides decided to put a halt to the operations. He added that, after the operation, he visited the border areas to meet the soldiers, and was first-hand witness to their unwavering resolve. "Our soldiers are not only protecting the borders, but also safeguarding our national self-respect," he said. Raksha Mantri dubbed Operation Sindoor as a shining example of Tri-services coordination as the Indian Air Force attacked from the sky, Indian Army stood firm on the Line of Control and gave a befitting reply to every action, and the Indian Navy strengthened its deployment in the North Arabian Sea. "The Indian Navy gave a clear message to Pakistan that we are not only capable but also ready to attack their every important base, from sea to land," he said. Rejecting the claims that the operation was stopped under pressure, Shri Rajnath Singh termed them as "baseless and incorrect". He stated that India halted the action as all the political and military objectives were fully achieved. He reiterated that Operation Sindoor has only been halted, and not ended. "If Pakistan again tries to carry out any nefarious act, we are fully prepared for an even more intense and decisive action," he said. Raksha Mantri asserted that, under PM Modi's leadership, India does not tolerate, it responds and the Government is committed to completely eradicate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Shri Rajnath Singh reiterated that India has always batted for cordial and cooperative relations with its neighbours including Pakistan, but its peace efforts have been misunderstood as naive. He stated that the Government adopted another path to ensure peace through surgical strike in 2016, Balakot air strike in 2019 and Operation Sindoor in 2025, and its stand has been clear that terrorism and talks cannot go together. "Talks are carried out between civilised, democratic countries. But, a nation which does not have even an iota of democracy in its existence and only has religious fanaticism, terrorism and hatred against India, dialogue cannot take place...," he said. Raksha Mantri informed the House that Pakistan is the nursery of global terrorism and it has made the menace the basis of its state policy. He stated that Pakistan arranged State Funeral for the terrorists, which was attended by military officers. "Pakistan cannot muster the courage to fight the soldiers on the border, so it makes innocent civilians, children and pilgrims the target of terrorism. Its Army and ISI use terrorism as a proxy war, and they dream of destabilising India. Those who dream to give India a thousand cuts must never forget that this is the New India led by PM Modi, which can go to any extent against terrorism," he added. Shri Rajnath Singh reasserted that India has never occupied even an inch of anyone's land, and it does not believe in competing with a country like Pakistan, which is nowhere near in size, strength, power and prosperity. India's policy, he said, is to take effective action against terrorism, and its opposition to Pakistan is due to the country's support to the global menace. Raksha Mantri stressed that India's conflict with Pakistan is not a border conflict but the one of civilisation versus barbarism. "The leaders of Pakistan know that their soldiers cannot defeat India in the battlefield so they nurture terrorism while portraying themselves as innocents in front of the whole world. Pakistan used terrorism as a toolkit which is in opposition to the civilised code of conduct that the rest of the world prefers to abide by. Shri Rajnath Singh informed the House that India's fight against terrorism is being fought on the ideological front, and not only on the border. He expressed gratitude to all the delegations which presented, on global forums, India's zero tolerance policy against terrorism and Operation Sindoor. He acknowledged the fact that political parties kept aside their ideologies and differences and showed solidarity with the nation, the soldiers and the government. Raksha Mantri assured the House and the people of the country that the Government, the Armed Forces and democratic institutions are committed to taking every step necessary for the unity, integrity and security of the nation. **** VK/Savvy (Release ID: 2149356) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran seeks peace but will respond decisively to any aggression, President says IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 28, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- President Masoud Pezeshkian says his country is ready for dialogue and does not seek war, but any repeated aggression will meet its decisive response. Pezeshkian made the remarks while receiving credentials from Pierre Couchard, France's new ambassador to Iran, on Monday. While expressing hopes for expanded cooperation based on mutual respect, the president criticized Western countries, adding that despite Iran's pursuit of domestic unity and global engagement - particularly under the 14th administration - Western countries disrupt this path through false propaganda and nuclear accusations. Pezeshkian said, "We demand our rights within international frameworks and have accepted the most stringent nuclear monitoring. While open to engagement, we will never relinquish our nation's legitimate rights." Elsewhere in his remarks, the President condemned the unprecedented crimes committed by the Israeli regime against the people of Gaza and criticized European inaction. He added, "What justification is there for children dying from bombardment or starvation? Are newborns considered terrorists? We expect France to take a more effective role in stopping these atrocities." Couchard, for his part, said that France remains committed to maintaining open channels of dialogue and diplomacy, while working to strengthen mutual trust. "In keeping with this principle, we maintained operations at our Tehran embassy even during the 12-day war period," he added. Referring to the diverse areas of potential cooperation between the two countries, he expressed his country's keen interest in expanding bilateral relations, emphasizing, "France firmly believes that dialogue remains the sole path to resolving differences, including on the nuclear issue. We believe that diplomacy requires time and patience to yield results". 3266**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Intelligence Ministry exposes U.S.-Israeli plot against Iran IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 28, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- The Intelligence Ministry has issued a detailed statement exposing a 12-day coordinated campaign by the U.S., the Israeli regime, and their regional allies to destabilize and dismember the Islamic Republic. In a statement on Monday, the Ministry of Intelligence commemorated the 40th day after the martyrdom of Iranians in the recent 12-day imposed war, paying tribute to the fallen civilians, military commanders, nuclear scientists, and anonymous intelligence officers. It reiterated its steadfast allegiance to Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, and his strategic directives. The ministry emphasized that the enemy's aggression on June 23 was not a limited operation, but a premeditated and multifaceted war. According to the statement, the Israeli-American alliance, alongside several European accomplices and terrorist groups, launched an extensive campaign using military, cyber, intelligence, cognitive warfare, and internal destabilization to force Iran into submission and dismantle the Islamic Republic. The war preparations included deceptive negotiations, the misuse of international organizations, and illegal resolutions from the International Atomic Energy Agency (I.A.E.A.) Board of Governors, media propaganda, and intelligence operations by CENTCOM, the Pentagon, and Israeli-linked corporations utilizing advanced satellite and cyber technologies, it added. The ministry noted that the plan's objectives were regime change, national fragmentation, and disruption of Iran's sovereignty. The aggressors, it said, were met with the iron will of the Iranian nation and the steadfastness of its Armed Forces under the command of Ayatollah Khamenei. The statement added that the Western intelligence agencies, relying on delusional analysis and misinformation from anti-Iran groups, underestimated Iran's resilience. The enemy's strategy, modeled on failed U.S. regime-change attempts, was crushed by Iran's unified defense, it said. Beyond overt military aggression, the Israeli regime covertly attempted assassinations, infrastructure sabotage, riots, and activation of terrorist proxiesincluding exiled traitors, MKO remnants, and monarchist elements. The Intelligence Ministry disclosed that its operatives conducted cyber and espionage missions within occupied Palestine, infiltrating the enemy's security apparatus. While some operatives were arrested, most operations remain undetected and ongoing, it added. One of the implemented approaches involved recruiting intelligence and operational assets from within the innermost military and security layers of the Israeli regime to carry out assigned missions, gather documented and visual reports of operations, and verify them, the ministry stated. It is now definitively announced that although the crippled Israeli regime managed to identify and arrest some Iranian operatives, the larger and more critical segments of these missions remain active, it added. Iran's operatives collected highly classified intelligence, including on nuclear, defense, and economic targets, and passed these to the Armed Forces before and during the war, the ministry explained. The Intelligence Ministry added that more than 20 Mossad-linked operatives were captured across multiple provinces, foiling sabotage and assassination plots. The ministry also revealed plans by the Israeli regime to use terrorist and separatist groups to ignite internal chaos. Among these, Daesh (ISIS) ringleaders and armed mercenaries were arrested, weapons seized, and cross-border incursions blocked, it stated. The statement said the U.S. and the Israeli regime plotted to install a puppet exile government headed by the disgraced Pahlavi heir, coordinating closely with known Zionist operatives. The intelligence services uncovered their involvement and swiftly thwarted attempts to deploy armed teams to Tehran as part of this regime-change scheme, it said. Dozens were arrested for receiving funds in digital currency for sabotage, while others were involved in Zionist-linked propaganda under the guise of religious or civil society groups, the ministry added. The ministry described the Israeli regime's aggressive cyberattacks that were intended to interfere with Iran's vital infrastructure. A larger plan to use digital warfare to stir up unrest included these initiatives. However, key nodes in the enemy's online propaganda networks were located by Iranian intelligence, which also successfully neutralized the attacks and detained administrators of powerful platforms that were coordinating anti-security operations. The Ministry reported extensive weapons seizures along both eastern and western borders, part of a broader effort by hostile elements to arm insurgents for operations during the so-called "zero hour" of coordinated internal destabilization. The confiscated arsenals included RPG launchers, heavy machine guns, war-grade explosives, and a significant cache of U.S.-manufactured M4 and M16 rifles, underscoring the scale and foreign backing of the attempted insurrection. The statement said that social destabilization was also a key pillar of the enemy's hybrid warfare strategy, adding that efforts to create artificial shortages of essential goods, incite labor strikes, and disrupt vital production and service sectors were systematically identified and neutralized by Iran's intelligence network. The Ministry emphasized that these provocations were part of a broader scheme to inflame public dissatisfaction and trigger widespread unrest, but were thwarted through a combination of preemptive action and public awareness. Also, identification and appropriate counteraction were taken against ongoing communication attempts by Mossad operatives - using phone numbers with various international prefixes - targeting selected individuals inside the country. These operatives sought to spread psychological insecurity, induce confusion and fear, issue threats, and deceptively suggest so-called "safe" exit routes from the country, along with false promises of foreign citizenship and residency. In conclusion, the Intelligence Ministry affirmed that despite the scale of the U.S.-Israeli conspiracy, Iran's defensive and offensive measures ensured national security remained intact. The resolve of the Iranian people and the readiness of security forces were pivotal in defeating the enemy's schemes, with Iran prepared to counter any future aggression. 3266**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pezeshkian: Iran ready for interaction, but won't give up nuclear rights Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 4:59 PM Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian says Tehran is ready for negotiations over its peaceful nuclear program but will never give up the nation's rights. Pezeshkian made the remarks in a Monday meeting with the new French Ambassador to Tehran, Pierre Cochard, who submitted his credentials to the Iranian president. "We demand our rights within the framework of international regulations and adhere to the requirements of this framework," he said. The president said Iran's nuclear activities had been subject to the strictest supervision in the past and that Tehran is ready for interactions in this regard. "However, this does not mean that we are relinquishing the rights of the Iranian people. We are ready for dialogue and do not seek war, but our response to any potential repetition of aggression will be strong," the Iranian president stated. Pezeshkian said Iran seeks interaction with the world, but Western countries are disrupting this process by spreading lies and accusing Tehran of making efforts to manufacture nuclear weapons. Iran and the European troikaFrance, Britain, and Germany held a second round of talks in Istanbul, Turkey, on July 25 and agreed to continue discussions on sanctions relief and the nuclear issue. Iran and the United States had held five rounds of indirect talks on Tehran's peaceful nuclear program before June 13, when the Israeli regime launched an unprovoked act of aggression on the Islamic Republic, which included attacks on Iranian nuclear sites. Mediated by Oman, the 6th round of talks was planned to be held in the Omani capital of Muscat on June 15, but was called off due to the Israeli attacks. On June 22, the United States officially joined the war against Iran by launching attacks on three nuclear facilities in the country in violation of the United Nations Charter and the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Pezeshkian calls on France to pressure Israel Elsewhere in his remarks, Pezeshkian censured European countries, particularly France, for keeping silent over the Israeli regime's "unprecedented and brutal" crimes against the oppressed Palestinian people in Gaza. He said there is no justification for the killing of people in Gaza by famine as a result of a criminal blockade. "Are newborn babies terrorists that they are being killed either by bombing or by hunger resulting from the blockade of Gaza?" the president asked. He expressed hope that France would play a more effective role in preventing the Israeli regime's crimes against the Palestinians. Gaza is currently facing the most severe humanitarian crisis it has ever encountered, marked by a devastating famine coinciding with a genocidal war initiated by Israel on October 7, 2023. As of March 2, 2025, all border crossings into the Palestinian territory have been sealed by Israel, and the regime has obstructed the entry of food and medical assistance, resulting in extensive famine throughout the coastal enclave. According to the latest figures, 134 Palestinians, including 88 children, have died from famine and malnutrition since the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023. France committed to diplomacy to build trust: Cochard The new French ambassador said Paris is committed to the path of dialogue and diplomacy to promote confidence. Cochard said his country believes that dialogue is the only solution to the Iranian nuclear issue. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US definitely behind terror attack on courthouse in southeast Iran, says judiciary chief Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 10:47 AM Iran's judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni Eje'i, has strongly condemned the terrorist attack by militants from the so-called Jaish al-Adl terrorist group on a courthouse in the country's southeastern city of Zahedan, stating that such acts of terror are definitely orchestrated by the United States. "There is no doubt that the root cause and origin of such crimes and terrorist incidents is arrogant powers, with the criminal US being at the forefront," Eje'i said on Monday as he expressed his deepest condolences over the assassination of several Iranian nationals in the assault. He added, "America is the primary sponsor of the unspeakable crimes of Zionists in Gaza, and the mastermind and architect of numerous crimes worldwide." The top judiciary official also instructed his deputy to take necessary measures in support of the families of people who have fallen victim to the terrorist attack in Zahedan. At least six people were killed and twenty-two others injured in Zahedan's terrorist attack on Saturday. Iranian security forces eliminated three assailants during the ensuing clashes. Sistan and Baluchestan province, which borders Pakistan, has witnessed several terrorist attacks targeting both civilians and security forces over the past years. Terrorist groups carrying out attacks against Iranian interests in the southeastern and southwestern parts of the country are believed to be linked to foreign spy agencies. On October 26 last year, ten members of Iran's law enforcement forces were killed in a terrorist attack in the Gohar Kuh district of Taftan County in the province. The so-called Jaish al-Adl terrorist group claimed responsibility for the assault, which was one of the deadliest in the province in recent months. Commenting on Israel's ongoing genocidal war on Gaza, Eje'i stated that deep and eternal shame rests with all advocates and sponsors of the notorious and criminal Zionist regime, which has raised oppression and crime in Gaza to its highest possible height. "Eternal and historic shame on the countries that witness the sufferings of people and children in Gaza, but continue their commercial and financial transactions with the occupying regime and provide the Zionists with fuel, raw materials, and industrial products. "In the meantime, international organizations, with their silence and inaction, are encouraging and emboldening the Zionist murderers to commit crimes even more than before," Iran's judiciary chief pointed out. At least 59,821 Palestinians have been killed, mostly women and children, and another 144,851 individuals injured in the brutal Israeli onslaught on Gaza since October 7, 2023. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former minister of military affairs Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on the besieged coastal territory. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address New freight trains better connect China, Turkiye through Middle Corridor Xinhua) 14:07, July 29, 2025 ISTANBUL, July 28 (Xinhua) -- The recent launch of two freight trains from China to Turkiye via the Middle Corridor marks a new chapter for the route, signaling progress toward more regular and efficient China-Europe rail operations, Turkish authorities and industry experts said. The Middle Corridor, officially known as the Trans-Caspian East-West Middle Corridor, traverses Kazakhstan, crosses the Caspian Sea, and continues through Azerbaijan and Georgia before reaching Europe via Turkiye. The milestone was highlighted by the arrival of the first China-Europe Railway Express South Channel Train at Istanbul's Halkali Station on July 21. Carrying communication equipment, auto parts, and other goods, the train completed its journey in 22 days after departing from Chongqing on June 29. The other train, departing from Chengdu, is expected to arrive in Istanbul next week. To ensure the timely delivery of the cargo, logistics partners from Turkiye and China optimized scheduling and strengthened coordination, enabling a faster and more resilient trade link. On July 16, Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloglu announced that, following numerous trial runs, regular services have now commenced from the Chinese cities of Chongqing and Chengdu to Istanbul, marking a significant step in the operational expansion of the Middle Corridor. "The trains traveled approximately 3,500 km within China before continuing through Central Asia, crossing the Caspian Sea, and reaching Europe via Turkiye. Each train carries around 2,000 tonnes of cargo," Uraloglu said. The services were launched on an agreement signed between Turkiye's Pasifik Eurasia Logistics Group and China State Railway Group, he said. The minister said Turkiye aims to establish seamless logistics between China and Europe, with a target of running 1,000 trains annually and positioning itself as a central hub in the Eurasian supply chain. "The Middle Corridor is no longer just an idea. It is step by step becoming a real corridor," said Fatih Erdogan, CEO of Pasifik Eurasia, adding that compared to traditional sea routes, the Middle Corridor offers not only a shorter path but also greater controllability. "These trains carry not only containers but also vision, trust, strategy, and a shared future," he said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Iran warns Europe over snapback sanctions, declares defense capabilities off limits Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 10:34 AM Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei has rejected attempts by the UK, France, and Germany to reinstate United Nations sanctions on Tehran, saying the European countries have no legal authority to do so. "Such a right does not exist, and we oppose the very essence of this issue. We have communicated our position to them," Baghaei told a weekly press conference in Tehran on Monday. The European trio, party to the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, has sought to activate the deal's "snapback" mechanism to restore sanctions. However, Baghaei asserted that their backing of Israel and the United States in last month's unprovoked war on Iran had voided their rights under the agreement. He said the trio actually "undermined" the credibility of UN Security Council Resolution 2231 that has endorsed the nuclear deal, by supporting the aggression. "The question now is whether they can [now even] call themselves a party" to the deal, the official stated. Baghaei warned that Iran would respond appropriately if the "snapback" was used against it. Iran's parliament has also threatened to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) if sanctions are reimposed. "Our membership cannot continue while we are deprived of our legitimate rights, including uranium enrichment," Baghaei said. On cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), he noted that despite tensions, Tehran remains a party to safeguard agreements and plans to devise a new protocol. "Within the next two weeks, one of the agency's officials will visit Iran," he said. Baghaei dismissed European calls to discuss Iran's missile program and regional influence as unrelated to the nuclear talks, which focus on lifting sanctions. "There will be absolutely no discussion on our defense capabilities," he said. "Our talks with European sides are clear: they focus on lifting sanctions and the nuclear issue," he said, adding, "Raising unrelated topics sporadically is a sign of confusion among the European parties." Baghaei asserted that Iran's successful defense in the face of the Israeli-American war clearly proved the importance of the Islamic Republic's defensive firepower. "It is clear to all that what can help us defend ourselves are the capabilities developed by our own scientists, and there will be absolutely no discussion on this matter." He also said Iran has no plans to resume talks with Washington, stressing decisions will be made based on national interests. Regarding the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza, Baghaei called it "the most significant international and regional concern," condemning the occupying regime's military aggression and use of "starvation and thirst as weapons of war." He said Iran is working with regional partners and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to hold an emergency meeting to address the ongoing genocide. He cited the regime's incessant bombardments of Gaza "to advance the plan to annihilate the Palestinian nation." The spokesperson also commented on France's plans to recognize Palestine as a state, saying they contradicted the European country's support for the Israeli regime's bloodletting in Gaza. "Sixty-thousand innocent people have been killed, and Gaza has become uninhabitable. You destroy all the necessary conditions for establishing a state while simultaneously claiming to recognize the State of Palestine," he said, directing his criticism at the Western countries. Baghaei also addressed the recent US withdrawal from UNESCO, the United Nations cultural agency, which Washington cited as being biased against it, saying the move only serves to embolden Tel Aviv in its actions. Baghaei did not rule out the Israeli regime's role in a recent terrorist attack in the southeastern Iranian city of Zahedan that claimed the lives of six people. The attack, he said, took place "in the context of the regime's ongoing crimes against Iran, and the regime spares no means to create insecurity." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address IRGC: Iran's offensive, defensive power disrupted Israel's calculations during imposed war Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 8:39 AM The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says the Iranian military's hard power and its offensive and defensive capabilities during the Israeli regime's 12 days of aggression disrupted all the enemy's calculations. "The Zionist regime was stunned in the 12-day imposed war, and if the missile operations of the Iranian Armed Forces had continued, nothing would have remained of this regime today," IRGC spokesman Brigadier General Ali Mohammad Naeini said on Sunday. He added dismissed the rhetoric used by the Israeli minister of military affairs against Iran as nothing but psychological warfare, but stressed that the Iranian Armed Forces miss no chance to further enhance their capabilities. The IRGC spokesman warned that the enemy is currently trying to disturb the public peace in Iran through nonsensical threats of attacking the country again, although it has already tested the Islamic Republic's hard and soft power. Naeini said Iran's soft power, based on the wise guidelines of Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the people's religious beliefs and national unity thwarted the enemy's plots. On June 13, Israel launched an unprovoked war against Iran, assassinating many high-ranking military commanders, nuclear scientists, and ordinary civilians. More than a week later, the United States also entered the war by bombing three Iranian nuclear sites in a grave violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). In response, the Iranian Armed Forces targeted strategic sites across the occupied territories as well as the al-Udeid air base in Qatar, the largest American military base in West Asia. On June 24, Iran, through its successful retaliatory operations against both the Israeli regime and the US, managed to impose a halt to the illegal assault. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'You'll be the main losers', IRGC intel chief warns Europeans over 'snapback' Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 6:37 AM The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC)'s intelligence chief has strongly warned the UK, France, and Germany against trying to restore the United Nations sanctions against Iran. "If the Europeans choose to take [certain] actions, we [too] have approaches at our disposal to take that we can deploy well, and the main losers in this matter will be the Europeans themselves," head of the IRGC's Intelligence Organization Brigadier General Majid Khademi said. He was addressing ongoing efforts by those countries, signatories to the 2015 nuclear agreement with the Islamic Republic, to invoke the deal's so-called "snapback" mechanism. This mechanism would reinstate the UN Security Council's sanctions against Iran, including the arms embargo, which the agreement lifted upon its conclusion. Trying to justify their campaign, the European trio alleges that Iran's nuclear energy program has been "diverted towards military purposes." The claim, however, has never been verified by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which has carried out most intrusive inspections of the country's nuclear facilities. The Islamic Republic says the European troika lacks the legal authority to reenact the mechanism. Tehran has also noted that the European states' siding with the United States "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran after Washington's illegal withdrawal from the deal in 2018, and their supporting the Israeli regime's unprovoked war on Iran last month, further robs them of any other excuse to take such action. Elsewhere in his remarks, Khademi pointed to the Iranian nation and Armed Forces' effective defense of the country and successful retaliation in the face of the Israeli war. "In the recent war, the enemy had thought that our national unity would falter," he said. However, both the nation and the servicemen "proved that they could force the enemy back," the official said, adding, "In the end, it was the enemy who asked for a ceasefire." The Israeli regime imposed the war on Iran on June 13, using an earlier anti-Iran resolution by the IAEA's Board of Governors that the same European countries and the US had advanced, as an excuse. The Iranian Armed Forces, though, stood up to the aggression, first deploying effective defensive maneuvers and then determined counterstrikes that saw them fire hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones against critical nuclear, military, and industrial targets across the occupied Palestinian territories. The combined measures compelled the regime to request a ceasefire just 12 days into the war. "Right now, Iran is in a very strong position in terms of security. The people possess a high level of awareness and vigilance, and our Armed Forces are in a state of complete preparedness," Khademi stated. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran Navy commander visits naval units in Strait of Hormuz, Persian Gulf Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 6:35 AM Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Shahram Irani has made a field visit to surface and subsurface naval units deployed in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf to assess the security situation of maritime shipping routes. During his visit on Sunday, Irani expressed gratitude for the chance to evaluate the naval forces' readiness. He added that full security is established in the region, particularly in the northern Indian Ocean, thanks to the presence of his fellow comrades. "Today, we assessed the preparedness of our naval forces...who are defending territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic and place special emphasis on enhancing the combat capabilities," Irani said. The Navy commander emphasized that the path of resistance laid by Iranian martyrs, especially those who bravely stood against the global arrogance and attained martyrdom, will continue with full resolve. Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, who is also Commander-in-Chief of the Iranian Armed Forces, has always called for the all-out promotion of combat capabilities of the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy, stressing the need for the naval force to continue its presence in international waters and high seas. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO Mission Iraq conducts mass casualty exercise NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) Jul 28 2025 Baghdad, IRAQ -- On 24 July 2025, NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) conducted a comprehensive mass casualty (MASCAL) exercise to test its joint medical teams, operating in a Troops Medical Center (TMC) Role 1, to receive and treat casualties, validate triage and determine appropriate levels of care. Under the leadership of the French medical team who will take over the Role 1, three NATO nations participated in the exercise, monitored by American medical staff, to test and validate MASCAL processes and procedures. Altogether, American, French, Spanish and Polish teams tested medical capabilities starting from the point of injury to prolonged field care and medical evacuation to a healthcare facility. MASCAL exercise gives every NATO troops contributing nations the opportunity to conduct a realistic, large-scale test of NMI's mass casualty response processes, policies and procedures. The exercise demonstrated and showed interoperability and readiness, with key lessons identified and learnt to improve future emergency. "These MASCAL scenarios force us to evaluate permanently our processes and ensure we are well trained between NATO Allies. MASCAL training also forces us to ensure we have solid procedures in place to deal with a real-world incident, if needed. I am very proud of the NATO team that showed determination and professionalism", he added. Running a mass casualty exercise is essential and crucial for emergency preparedness and response. This type of exercise, run in Union III camp, simulates real-life scenarios involving a large number of casualties to test and improve the NMI capabilities of healthcare system and emergency services. A mass casualty incident refers to any situation where the number of injured individuals overwhelms the local healthcare system's immediate response capacity. Without training, even the best plans and resources can fail during a real crisis. A TMC (Troops Medical Centre) or Role 1 provides the initial level of medical care focusing on immediate life-saving measures. It's a unit that is responsible for the medical support of the soldier. In case of MASCAL, it is responsible for triage, resuscitation, and stabilization of casualties before further evacuation to higher echelons of care. Story by NATO Mission Iraq Public Affairs Office NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Commission proposes partial suspension of Israel's association to Horizon Europe European Commission Press release Jul 28, 2025 Brussels Today, the European Commission proposed to partially suspend Israel's participation to Horizon Europe. The suspension specifically concerns the participation of entities established in Israel in activities funded under the Accelerator of the European Innovation Council (EIC). This suspension comes as a reaction to the review Art. 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Respect for these obligations constitutes an essential part of EU-Israel cooperation under the Agreement, including for bilateral scientific and technological cooperation between the two parties. While Israel has announced a daily humanitarian pause in Gaza fighting and has met some of its commitments under the common understanding on humanitarian aid and access, the situation remains severe. This decision will affect the participation of Israeli entities in the EIC Accelerator, which targets start-ups and small businesses with disruptive innovations and emerging technologies that have potential dual-use applications, such as in cybersecurity, drones, and artificial intelligence. The proposed suspension is a targeted and reversible action. It does not affect the participation of Israeli universities and researchers in collaborative projects and research activities under Horizon Europe. Next Steps For the Commission's proposal to be adopted, it must receive the support of a qualified majority in the Council of the European Union. Background The Horizon Europe programme is the EU's flagship research and innovation initiative, designed to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance citizens' lives. The European Union and Israel have a long-standing partnership in scientific and technological cooperation. The Association Agreement, signed in Brussels on 20 November 1995 and having entered into force in June 2000, provides the legal framework for EU-Israel relations. It establishes a regular dialogue on scientific, technological, cultural, audio-visual and social matters. In 2021, Israel joined Horizon Europe as an associated country, allowing its researchers and organisations to participate on equal terms with EU Member States. Israel has also financially contributed for its participation to the programme. For More Information Decision on the partial suspension of the agreement between the European Union and Israel, on the participation of Israel in the Union programme Horizon Europe [will be available soon] NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Prime Minister's Office announcement Israel - Prime Minister's Office Type: Media Statements Government: The 37th Government Publish Date: 28.07.2025 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke this evening with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The conversation between the two leaders was on the issue of Iran. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PM Netanyahu visits the IDF Intelligence Directorate Israel - Prime Minister's Office Type: Events and Speeches Government: The 37th Government Publish Date: 28.07.2025 Prime Minister Netanyahu at the Intelligence Directorate: "We have a job to finish: the eradication of Hamas and the return of our hostages. We are not giving up on that even for a moment. Those two goals are intertwined" Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited today the base of the IDF Intelligence Directorate with the Director Maj. Gen. Shlomi Binder. During the visit, the Prime Minister expressed his appreciation of the soldiers and commanders of the Intelligence Directorate for their actions during Operation Rising Lion in Iran, and praised their crucial contribution to obtaining, through multi-agency cooperation, the preliminary intelligence that brought on the historic success. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: "We have a job to finish: the eradication of Hamas and the return of our hostages. We are not giving up on that even for a moment. Those two goals are intertwined. The essence of what they have seen in Iran, though, is that there is no axis. This plan of destroying Israel is currently off the table. The precise focus of the intelligence that was obtained, its quality, volume, depth, were simply amazing to me, and were a source of great confidence to me and my fellow cabinet members. Not everyone was privy to that intelligence. It's a tremendous achievement of historic proportions, and it was achieved thanks to your work and the work of your friends. It is a historic achievement, and I am not being wordy or exaggerating. These were the capabilities of a power and most of all, capabilities that were on task. I mean, it simply hit like an arrow that you shoot at this wall over there and it strikes with precision. And that was repeated over and over again. This is a tremendous component, this interaction between the government and the military echelons, and then the combination between the intelligence branch, the air force and other branches. That combination brought the result. It isn't over yet. We are still completing the tasks concerning the axis. There are still the two H's: Hamas and that band of savages down south. We will deal with them as well. We must first and foremost safeguard the achievement of pushing back the two fundamental threats: the nuclear weapon and the ballistic missiles. And there will be new threats, but in light of the capabilities you have demonstrated, I have no doubt that we will succeed against them. You have a great part in the successes thus far, and I wish, for all of us, that you will continue to contribute your part in ensuring the eternity of Israel, and I would like to thank you". NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Telephone conversation with Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister of the State of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu. July 28, 2025 18:30 The two leaders discussed various aspects of the tense situation in the Middle East. The Russian side has reiterated its unwavering support of resolving the problems and conflicts arising in the region exclusively via peaceful means. In particular, Vladimir Putin emphasised the importance of supporting the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic and reinforcing its internal political stability by respecting the legitimate rights and interests of all ethnic and confessional communities. In light of the recent escalation between Iran and Israel, the Russian side expressed its willingness to facilitate in every possible way the search for negotiated solutions to the Iran's nuclear issue. The two leaders agreed to continue their dialogue on pressing international and bilateral matters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Remarks by Director of the Department of Economic Cooperation of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr. Dmitry Birichevskiy at the 3rd Russia-Africa conference of the Valdai Club and the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), Session 1: G20 and BRICS: Assessing Strategic Roles in an Evolving Global Order, 28 July 2025 28 July 2025 21:36 1266-28-07-2025 South Africa's Presidency in the G20 is of great importance for quite a number of reasons. It is the first time that an African country has assumed leadership of this key international economic forum. And this is exactly one of the manifestations of the emergence of a new world order. In 2025 the G20 rounds off its first full cycle of presidencies, which offers a good opportunity to review our past efforts and discuss the goals ahead. On top of that, several anniversary dates create an exceptional historical context for the G20 this year. Namely the 80th anniversary of our Victory in the World War II and the founding of the United Nations; as well as the 65th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Declaration on Decolonization. South Africa is steadily setting the tone for G20 endeavors with a focus on urgent issues of economic growth, food security, artificial intelligence, debt burden, and critical minerals. We support Pretoria's priorities and strive to contribute to tangible practical results. On July 24-25, the G20 Development Ministerial Meeting convened in Mpumalanga Province, opening a number of high-level G20 events this year. It provided for successful adoption of documents on sensitive matters for Africa, such as illicit financial flows and social protection. Now we embark on the final stretch towards the November G20 Summit. Against the backdrop of rising geo-economic fragmentation, G20's activities attract increasing attention. The Forum adopted its present form in 2008 - at a challenging time for the world economy - and since then proved itself an effective "crisis manager" on numerous occasions. G20 has remained resilient and efficient even at the peak of Western anti-Russian hysteria in 2022-2023. Today it continues to develop very much-needed consensus solutions on pressing economic and global issues. The successive chairmanships of BRICS countries in 2022-2025 made a significant input to the productive work of the G20. Thanks to the well-balanced and independent stance of recent Chairs (Indonesia, India, Brazil and now South Africa), we could advance a unifying agenda at the Forum and transform it into a major channel to enable equitable communication among the largest economies. The cycle of the BRICS leaderships in the G20 coincided with the steady strengthening of its positions in economic affairs. Today, BRICS and G7' shares in the global GDP are measured as 40 and 29 percent respectively. The mounting influence of BRICS asserts it as a center for growth, innovation and one of the main pillars of a new and more just world order. Its principles of consensus, equality, mutual consideration of each other's interests resonate with a growing number of countries in the Global South, which enhances the role of BRICS as a sort of "spokesperson" for the World Majority. In the G20, increasing weight and consolidation of a new pole of power enabled to rectify the long-standing pro-Western bias, and to focus discussions on the needs of developing nations. Finally, what we have at the top of our agenda is the long overdue issues of how to make economic governance more democratic and eliminate the digital and technological divides between the Global North and South. Such problems as illegitimate sanctions and other methods of unfair competition alongside the failure of developed countries to deliver on their ODA commitments were accorded the attention they rightly deserved. South African Presidency has predictably placed G20 emphasis on the African agenda - a step that we fully support. Amidst the alarming developments in the global economy, situation in African countries looks particularly precarious. They routinely have to deal with the aftermaths of colonialism, thriving neocolonial practices, and inequitable division of labor. Their takes at development and industrialization get hindered by proliferating protectionist barriers, unbearable borrowing costs, and draining of resources. Together with like-minded partners, we take efforts to consolidate the achievements of the BRICS presidencies in the G20 and give a strong political impetus to overcoming the challenges faced by developing countries, especially in Africa. We suggest our colleagues consider providing a "permanent seat" for BRICS in the G20. Africa will only benefit from boosting cooperation with BRICS as a conduit for the priorities of the Global South, including at major multilateral fora such as G20. BRICS membership now comprises South Africa, Egypt and Ethiopia, who seek to promote both national objectives and pan-African agenda. Since 2025, Nigeria and Uganda have joined in as partner states. In addition, further enlargement of the New Development Bank through African shareholders seems rather promising. The status of BRICS as a leading international format was vividly stressed at the Summits in Kazan in 2024 and in Rio de Janeiro this year. The key results of Russian and recent Brazilian chairmanships keep evolving. That includes initiatives for interbank cooperation and elaboration of independent settlement and insurance instruments. Also, broad support was given to our proposals on the new mechanisms of exchange trading, strengthening the resilience of supply chains and resistance to protectionism. Both in Kazan and Rio de Janeiro, member states committed to building a more just, resilient, polycentric world order and putting an end to the Western dominance in the Bretton Woods institutions. We will continue to advance this common ground within the G20. Russia is a responsible contributor to the development agenda, both bilaterally and at international venues. Our focus is on maximizing the potential of Russian-African partnership. Every year the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) serves as an acclaimed platform for promoting Africa's interests. And again we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa Paul Mashatile for his participation in the event this year. SPIEF's distinguished stance is largely based on our competitive advantages in energy, digitalization and infrastructure, as well as extensive experience in terms of import substitution. We look forward to further fruitful cooperation and offer our African friends effective tools to enhance their economic sovereignty. In current difficult geopolitical situation sovereignty is the key to the true economic and political independence. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran opposes any attempt to undermine Syria's national sovereignty: Envoy IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 28, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Iranian Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations said that the Islamic Republic of Iran once again emphasizes its firm and unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, national unity, and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic, and said, "We firmly oppose any attempt, whether direct or indirect, aimed at undermining Syria's national sovereignty or dividing its territory." The full text of statement by Iravani is as follows: Statement by H.E. Mr. Amir Saeid Iravani Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations Before the United Nations Security Council On 'The situation in the Middle East: (Syria)' New York, 28 July 2025 Thank you, Mr. President. We thank Special Envoy Mr. Pedersen and Ms. Wosornu, Director of OCHA's Operations and Advocacy Division, for their insightful briefings On the situation in Syria, I wish to make the following points: First, the Islamic Republic of Iran reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic. We strongly oppose any attemptwhether direct or indirectto undermine Syria's national sovereignty or to fragment its territory. In this regard, we warn against Israel's dangerous and destabilizing agenda aimed at detaching Syria's southern provinces from the authority of the central government. Such illegal actions constitute a clear violation of international law, the UN Charter and the Security Council resolution, and threaten regional stability. This Council must decisively reject all such schemes and reaffirm its commitment to the principles enshrined in the UN Charter. Second, we are deeply alarmed by the recent outbreak of violence in Suweida, which resulted in the loss of civilian lives and damage to critical infrastructure. We express our support for the interim government's efforts to restore stability and urge a prompt, transparent investigation conducted in full accordance with the rule of law. We also take note of the findings related to the mass killings against Alawites in Latakia and Tartous. Accountability must be ensured for these crimes as well. In addressing both the violence in Suweida and the coastal attacks targeting Alawite communities, we emphasize that justice must be pursued through credible mechanisms, free from foreign interference and political manipulation. Third, we urge full respect for the rights of all minorities and the resolution of internal differences through inclusive dialogue. Sectarian violence undermines public trust in the political transition, which must remain inclusive and nationally owned. A unified and diverse Syria is essential for lasting peace and stability. Fourth, the recent Israeli airstrikes and acts of aggression targeting Damascus and southern Syria are not only a blatant violation of international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria, but also undermine the fragile political process, further complicating efforts toward dialogue and settlement. Israel's illegal occupation of the Syrian Golan and its continued violations of Security Council resolutions must end. This Council cannot remain indifferent to such aggression. Fifth, on the humanitarian situation, we remain gravely concerned about the worsening situation in Suweida and other regions. The shortages of food, water, fuel, medicine, and other essentials are alarming. We commend the efforts of OCHA, UN agencies, and humanitarian partners for delivering life-saving assistance. We urge all donors to contribute generously to the 2025 Humanitarian Response Priorities for Syria, especially in light of the critical funding shortfalls. It is deeply concerning that, in 2024, only 36.6 percent of the Syria Humanitarian Response Plan has been funded. Sixth, we welcome all steps toward lifting the illegal, unilateral sanctions imposed on the Syrian people. These unlawful actions have severely exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, hindered reconstruction efforts, and crippled economic recovery. Their removal is essential to enable Syria's rebuilding and to create conditions conducive to the safe and dignified return of refugees and internally displaced persons. However, lifting sanctions must not be used as a tool of political coercion or tied to interference in Syria's internal affairs. Finally, there is no military solution to the Syrian crisis. The only viable path forward is through a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process, facilitated by the United Nations and based on core principles outlined in resolution 2254. We support continued inclusive dialogue that respects Syria's sovereignty and national institutions and promotes reconciliation among all segments of society. The Islamic Republic of Iran remains fully committed to working constructively with the United Nations and regional partners to support peace, justice, and the full recovery of Syria, free from occupation, terrorism, and foreign interference. Thank you. 2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran opposes any attempt meant to disintegrate Syria: UN envoy Iran Press TV Monday, 28 July 2025 7:10 PM Iran's ambassador to the United Nations says Tehran strongly opposes any attempt aimed at undermining Syria's sovereignty and disintegrating the conflict-ridden country. Amir Saeid Iravani made the remarks during a UN Security Council meeting on Syria as the southern Sweida province has witnessed deadly clashes between the Druze community, Bedouins, and the ruling HTS forces, while Israel has used the violence as a pretext to attack various sites across the Arab country. Iravani warned against the Tel Aviv regime's "dangerous and destabilizing" schemes aimed at detaching Syria's southern governorates from the authority of the central government, noting that such illegal actions constitute a flagrant violation of international law, the UN Charter and Security Council resolutions. "The Islamic Republic of Iran reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic." "We strongly oppose any attemptwhether direct or indirect to undermine Syria's national sovereignty or to fragment its territory," he said. The Iranian envoy also expressed worries about the recent outbreak of violence in Sweida and said Tehran supports the interim government's efforts to restore stability. He further condemned the mass killing of Syria's Alawites in the coastal cities of Latakia and Tartous, saying justice must be pursued through credible mechanisms, free from foreign interference and political manipulation. "We urge full respect for the rights of all minorities and the resolution of internal differences through inclusive dialogue. Sectarian violence undermines public trust in the political transition, which must remain inclusive and nationally owned. A unified and diverse Syria is essential for lasting peace and stability," he said. Meanwhile, Iravani denounced the recent Israeli airstrikes and acts of aggression targeting Damascus and southern Syria, as well as the regime's illegal occupation of the Golan Heights. "There is no military solution to the crisis in Syria," he said. "The only viable path forward is through a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process, facilitated by the United Nations and based on core principles outlined in Resolution 2254." He also expressed Iran's commitment to working constructively with the UN and regional partners to support peace, justice, and the full recovery of Syria, free from occupation, terrorism, and foreign interference. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The UK welcomes the ceasefire in southern Syria and urges all sides to stick to it: UK statement at the UN Security Council Statement by Rt Hon Hamish Falconer MP, Minister for the Middle East, at the UN Security Council meeting on Syria. From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Hamish Falconer MP Published 28 July 2025 Location: United Nations, New York Delivered on: 28 July 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered) Thank you to Special Envoy Pedersen and Ms. Wosornu for the brief. Your update today underlines just how fragile the situation remains in Syria. Together, we must stay focused on protecting civilians, supporting peace, and getting aid to those who need it. I want to make three points today. First, the UK welcomes the ceasefire in southern Syria. It is fragile, but it is holding. Thank you to the United States, for all the hard work of them and regional partners for their efforts to broker the ceasefire. We urge all sides to stick to it. We also welcome the resumption of dialogue between Syria and Israel. Further Israeli military action is in no one's interests and risks tipping Syria into deeper instability. We must avoid that, and now is the time to rebuild trust. The UK is worried about the spread of dis-and-misinformation, which is fuelling division and fear. Communities need space to talk honestly with each other. And there must be accountability for those sowing division. The violence on the coast in March cannot be brushed aside. We welcome the recent presentation of findings from the Committee established to investigate the violence. Showing how the perpetrators of the violence will be held accountable is crucial to prevent those events repeating. Second, the humanitarian situation is dire, as we have heard. Over 145,000 people have been displaced. Many are cut off from food, water, fuel, and medical care. That is unacceptable. We call for immediate, consistent, and unimpeded humanitarian access so that all aid actors, including international organisations, can get help to those who need it most. The UK is doing its part. We have provided over $295,000 in emergency support to southern Syria, getting urgent healthcare and trauma care to those affected. UK-funded Grain from Ukraine is also reaching people in Dara'a and Suwayda through the World Food Programme. And earlier this month, our Foreign Secretary announced over $124 million in new support for Syria. That includes urgent humanitarian aid, long-term recovery support through education and livelihoods and help for countries hosting Syrian refugees. Finally, this is another pivotal moment. The violence in Suwayda is a stark reminder that Syria's future must include all of its communities. We know that peace and security will not come without inclusion. That is why we are calling on the Syrian government to prioritise this in the political transition. And the UK will keep working with the Syrian government and regional partners to help build a Syria that is peaceful, inclusive, and stable. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syria: Fragile ceasefire in Sweida 'largely holding' amid volatility By Vibhu Mishra 28 July 2025 - A fragile de-escalation in Syria's Sweida region is "largely holding" after weeks of violence displaced 175,000 people, killed hundreds and devastated critical infrastructure - exposing deep fissures in the country's political transition. Declared on July 19, the ceasefire followed a harrowing wave of sectarian clashes, Israeli airstrikes and grave human rights violations. UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen told ambassadors in the Security Council on Monday that the recent escalation had "rocked" the country's already precarious transition and highlighted the need for "major course corrections" on security and political fronts. "Syrians are reeling after appalling violence in Sweida - violence that should not have happened and which also saw unacceptable foreign intervention," Mr. Pedersen said. Escalation and fallout The unrest began on July 12 when mutual kidnappings escalated into armed conflict between Druze groups and Bedouin tribes, drawing in Syrian security forces. The violence spiralled, with reports of extrajudicial executions, desecration of corpses and looting. Footage circulated widely on social media fanned sectarian tensions and disinformation. Though fighting has largely subsided, Mr. Pedersen warned the situation "remains tense and volatile". Civilians suffered the most, with hundreds killed and widespread accounts of abuses by both State and non-State actors. "I condemn the appalling violations against civilians and combatants in Sweida. I also condemn Israel's intervention," he said, referring to airstrikes around Sweida and Damascus that reportedly caused civilian and security force casualties. Humanitarian crisis worsens Humanitarian needs are escalating sharply. Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations at the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), described Sweida as "teetering on the edge of collapse". "The recent violence in Sweida has displaced an estimated 175,000 people...a third of the population in the governorate, where two thirds of people were already in need of assistance," she told ambassadors. Hospitals are overwhelmed and face severe shortages of electricity, supplies and personnel. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed five attacks on healthcare in Sweida, including the killing of two doctors and the obstruction and targeting of ambulances. Vital infrastructure, including water systems, are critically damaged, and food, fuel and medicine remain scarce. Aid access remains limited due to insecurity. While three UN-supported aid convoys reached Sweida with food, fuel and health supplies, Ms. Wosornu stressed the need for "sustained humanitarian access" and protection for aid workers and infrastructure. Droughts and wildfires deepen suffering The violence coincided with devastating wildfires in Lattakia that displaced over 1,100 people and destroyed farmland. The fires were worsened by "the worst drought-like conditions Syria has seen in 36 years", Ms. Wosornu said, with water reservoir levels falling to historic lows. UN agencies are responding with clean water, health services and food assistance. Comprehensive political reforms Special Envoy Pedersen emphasised that sustainable peace in Syria hinges on inclusive political reform, security sector transformation and transitional justice. "The state has a clear duty to act professionally and with discipline, even when under attack. It must take control of its forces and ensure visible accountability," he said. A new People's Assembly is expected in September, a key step in the transitional framework. Mr. Pedersen warned that unless the process is inclusive, transparent and representative, it risks deepening public mistrust. Transition simply cannot fail "The Syrian political transition simply cannot fail," he said. Ms. Wosornu echoed the call for international solidarity, urgent funding and a halt to hostilities. Only 12 per cent of the revised $3.2 billion humanitarian appeal has been met. "Our assistance is falling far short of meeting the level of needs," she said, "If Syria is to recover, such violence must stop." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address OCHA urges Security Council to protect civilians and sustain support for Syria UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Briefing to the Security Council on the humanitarian situation in Syria by Edem Wosornu, Director, Operations and Advocacy for OCHA, on behalf of Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator New York, 28 July 2025 As delivered Thank you, Mr. President I welcome this opportunity to brief the Council on the humanitarian situation in Syria, and to complement the important messages from Special Envoy Pedersen. Recent weeks have provided a stark reminder that Syria is not just one of the world's largest humanitarian crises, but also subject to violence and climatic shocks that compound the country's needs. The recent violence in As-Sweida as the Special Envoy Pederson has just outlined, has displaced an estimated 175,000 people, both within the area and to surrounding governorates. That represents a third of the population in a Governorate, where two-thirds of people were already in need of assistance. Women, children and medical personnel are among the hundreds of people who have been reported killed. The World Health Organization has confirmed reports of the killing of two doctors, the obstruction and targeting of ambulances, and hospitals being temporarily occupied. Again, as the Special Envoy has said, there have been reports of horrendous physical assaults, abductions, forced evictions, psychological abuse, and the looting and destruction of homes. Water infrastructure has been critically damaged, interrupting the water supply. Significant cuts to electricity have been reported, as well as serious disruptions to food, fuel and other supplies in markets. The main hospital is overwhelmed, with severe shortages of medical supplies and personnel, and lack of electricity. Those caught up in the fighting must be protected and be allowed to move freely in search of safety and medical treatment. Safeguarding essential infrastructure and services - including healthcare, water and sanitation and electricity - are equally vital. International human rights law, norms and standards must be respected. And the killing, injuring, and acts of cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment must stop. Mr. President, OCHA is engaging with all parties to ensure the swift delivery of assistance, but access remains constrained. On 20 July, a 32-truck convoy from the Syrian Arab Red Crescent [SARC] reached As-Sweida, carrying aid provided by the World Food Programme and UNICEF, as well as other partners. A second SARC convoy with food, wheat flour, fuel, medicines and health supplies - including from the UN - reached As-Sweida on 23 July. A third such convoy, including fuel for hospitals and bakeries, food, surgical kits, and shelter supplies, has also arrived in As-Sweida today. First responders under the Ministry of Emergencies and Disaster Management, and SARC have evacuated vulnerable people including children and older people. Syrian authorities seek to send further teams to support health services and other response, but this has not yet been made possible. We continue to engage with our partners and the interim authorities - including through a Government-led coordination cell - to gain direct access to As-Sweida as soon as security conditions allow. We urge all parties to facilitate expanded and sustained access for humanitarian assistance and personnel, including of course medical staff. In neighbouring Dar'a, and in Rural Damascus, the UN is working with SARC and NGO partners to deliver food, nutrition, health services, water, protection services and other critical items to newly displaced people at reception centres. Mr. President, The violence in the South erupted just as vicious wildfires, concentrated in the Coastal governorate of Lattakia, were brought under control by Syrian authorities and teams from around the region. These fires displaced more than 1,100 people and destroyed large swaths of agricultural land. The UN and partners are providing a range of support, including bread, clean water, and critical household items. Mobile teams provide health and nutrition services. A $625,000 allocation from the Syria Humanitarian Fund is supporting SARC's emergency response. The fires were exacerbated by the worst drought-like conditions Syria has seen in 36 years. Key reservoirs - critical for drinking water, energy supply, and agriculture - have fallen to historically low levels. Mr, President, This past May, I visited Syria together with the World Health Organization's Director of Health Emergencies, to support our efforts to adapt the response to the evolving context in Syria. In visits to Damascus, Homs, Lattakia and Aleppo, the enormous scale of need for humanitarian assistance and protection, as well as recovery and reconstruction, was clear. But so was the desire of those I met to build a better future. In Aleppo, I met with women farmers who had returned to work on their fields after years of displacement. Their strength and resilience are reminders to us all of the Syrian people's determination to rebuild their country, despite all they have endured. There is a path out of the humanitarian crisis, and it is in the hands of the people of Syria - but getting ahead will require concerted engagement and solidarity by all of us. I want to highlight three key asks for the Council's attention. First, we need to ensure that people caught in areas of violence are protected - including aid workers. Critical services must be spared. And people must be able to safely access medical care and humanitarian relief. The UN and our NGO partners must have sustained humanitarian access to people in and around As-Sweida and those who require urgent medical attention must be evacuated. Aid workers and assets, health facilities, and other vital services must be protected. If Syria is to recover, the violence must stop. Our second ask is for continued investment in what remains a large-scale and vital humanitarian operation. The UN and our partners continue to do our utmost to provide critical assistance and use the limited resources we have efficiently. In this regard, we have concluded the transition from the Whole of Syria approach to Damascus-led operations, with a single Humanitarian Country Team bringing together organization working across Syria, under the leadership of the Humanitarian Coordinator. National and international NGOs who have been working for years in one part of the country, are expanding their operations. We are reaching new locations. We are consolidating what had been separate pooled funding mechanisms for the Damascus-based and cross-border response. This month, Syria agreed to continue current arrangements for the UN to deliver humanitarian assistance from Turkiye through early February, enabling us to continue to use a highly efficient route to provide aid to a range of areas inside Syria. Through these efforts our partners are assisting some 2.5 million people across the country with critical aid each month, despite severe reductions in funding. This includes deploying mobile medical teams to reach underserved communities; getting critical medicine and medical supplies to health facilities; supporting the restoration of water supplies; providing food and nutrition support for the most vulnerable; and clearing explosive war remnants. In doing so, we are relying heavily on local actors, and on the contributions of women aid workers, I saw firsthand during my visit. But our assistance is falling far short of meeting the level of needs, and without further funding, this gap will only widen. We have just issued an extension of our response plan, for which we have prioritized even further. We are seeking $3.2 billion through the end of the year, a reduction of nearly $1 billion from our 2024 ask - though needs remain just as high. But we have received only 12 per cent of the ask, and I expect it to continue facing massive shortfalls in funding. Our third ask, Mr. President, is to mobilize resources for Syria's reconstruction and development, which will allow us to move faster from humanitarian relief to recovery. Such investment will be particularly critical to support the growing numbers of people returning to their homes. As of mid-July, over 1.5 million internally displaced persons have returned to their home areas, along with about 700,000 refugees returning from abroad, with the pace of returns slightly increasing during summer and the end of the school year. But this only adds pressure on services - like health, water, education - which already face major gaps. Recent weeks have provided important opportunities. Steps to ease unilateral sanctions, the World Bank's announcement of a grant to support electricity supply, and important investments and support from neighboring countries are welcome developments. The momentum needs to be sustained and translated into more tangible support - to help the resilient people of Syria rebuild their lives. Thank you. Posted on 28 July 2025 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Rocked by Deadly Violence This Past Month, Political, Security Transition in Syria Requires 'Major Course Corrections', Special Envoy Tells Security Council Meetings Coverage Security Council 9967th Meeting* (AM) SC/16130 28 July 2025 Syria's political transition remains crucial, amidst the country's compounding humanitarian, security and environmental challenges, top UN officials told the Security Council today, underscoring the need to bridge the woefully underfunded humanitarian response and enable progress from relief to recovery. "Syria's transition has been rocked this past month by violence and escalation that led to mass casualties, drained trust and created more dangers of fragmentation," declared Geir O. Pedersen, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria, stressing: "It is clear that some major course corrections on security and the political transition are needed." Pointing to the "appalling outbreak of violence in Sweida violence that should not have happened, and which also saw unacceptable foreign intervention" he outlined the events that took place, beginning with mutual kidnappings on 12 July that escalated into armed local clashes between Bedouin tribes and Druze groups. While an initial ceasefire was announced, endorsed and then collapsed, fresh accusations of violations emerged, with disturbing footage circulated of extrajudicial executions, degrading treatment, desecration of corpses, looting and destruction of property, alongside widespread disinformation and sectarian incitement. "The first, dramatic round of fighting saw hundreds of casualties among security forces, Druze fighters and most tragically among civilians, particularly Druze," he stated. As the fighting raged, Israeli air strikes targeted Syrian security forces and Bedouin armed elements in the southern city of Sweida and attacked a Ministry of Defense building, causing casualties among civilians and security forces, he went on. While another ceasefire was declared on 19 July, leading to a fragile de-escalation, the situation remains volatile, he said, condemning the appalling violations against civilians and combatants in Sweida, as well as Israel's intervention and air strikes in Sweida and the capital, Damascus. Voicing concern over credible reports received by the UN Human Rights Office and his office that indicated widespread violations and abuses perpetrated by members of the security forces and individuals affiliated with the authorities, he took note that the Committee for Investigation and Fact-Finding into the coastal events submitted its report to President Ahmed al-Sharaa. "We have not seen the report and are aware of a range of reactions to the public presentation of it," he said, urging authorities to publish the document and ensure accountability for perpetrators, regardless of affiliation. Turning to the country's political transition, he underscored that Syrians' concerns about centralized power, limited transparency and insufficient means for genuine public consultation must be addressed. As well, he called for the forming of a People's Assembly, noting his engagements with President al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al Shaibani and the Supreme Committee for Elections to urge an inclusive, transparent and representative process. Ahead of the planned formation of the partially elected Assembly in September, he underscored the need for inclusion, particularly in areas where disputes remain with the authorities, emphasizing: "The Syrian political transition simply cannot fail." Estimated 175,000 People Displaced by Recent Violence "Recent weeks have provided a stark reminder that Syria is not just one of the world's largest humanitarian crises, but also subject to violence and climatic shocks that compound the country's needs," Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations and Advocacy Division of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, stressed, pointing out that the recent violence has displaced an estimated 175,000 people. Citing reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) that confirmed the killing of two doctors and the obstruction and targeting of ambulances, she called for the protection of people including aid workers caught in areas of violence, and for safe access to medical care and humanitarian relief. While several convoys bearing aid have reached Sweida, humanitarian access remains constrained, she said, detailing her Office's engagements with partners and interim authorities to gain direct access to As-Sweida as soon as security conditions allow. $3.2 Billion Humanitarian Aid Request Only 12 Per Cent Funded As the violence in the south erupted, vicious wildfires in the coastal governorate of Lattakia displaced more than 1,100 people and destroyed agricultural land, she went on to say. Highlighting the emergency response by the UN and partners, through a $625,000 allocation from the Syria Humanitarian Fund, she noted that the fires were exacerbated by the worst drought-like conditions Syria has seen in 36 years. Against this backdrop, she called for continued investment in what remains a large-scale and vital humanitarian operation, pointing out that only 12 per cent of this year's $3.2 billion request for Syria has been received. Welcoming developments including steps to ease unilateral sanctions and the World Bank's announcement of a grant to support electricity supply, she stressed the need for such momentum to be translated into tangible support for Syrians, "which will allow us to move faster from humanitarian relief to recovery". Calls for Accountability, End to Foreign Interventions In the ensuing discussion, many speakers welcomed the ceasefire in Syria, with Hamish Falconer, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan) at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the United Kingdom, thanking the United States and regional partners for their efforts in securing it. He was among several speakers voicing concern over Israeli military activity in Syria, warning it is in no one's interest and risks tipping Syria into deepening instability. "Now is the time to rebuild trust," he added, a view espoused by the delegates of Slovenia and Denmark,with the latter stating, "a prosperous, stable and safe Syria is in the interest of the whole region". China's representative, also condemning Israeli strikes, reaffirmed that "the Golan is occupied Syrian territory" and demanded Israel's withdrawal. Welcoming Syria's commitment to investigate violations, he joined speakers calling for "transparent, credible and responsible" accountability, a point also echoed by the speaker for Greece, who called for inclusivity, reconciliation and protection of all communities. Humanitarian Needs to Be Addressed The representative of the Russian Federation, also calling for "independent, impartial and transparent" investigations into the recent violence in Sweida and on the coast, urged the UN to prioritize vulnerable minority communities and called for a UN interagency mission to assess humanitarian needs on the ground. "Humanitarian support must be consistent and depoliticized, sufficient not only to meet immediate needs, but to help rebuild essential systems over time," said Pakistan's representative, Council President for July, speaking in his national capacity, and urging support for Syria's economic recovery. Peace Key to Advancing Political Transition Algeria's delegate, also speaking on behalf of Guyana, Sierra Leone and Somalia, welcomed the announced ceasefire and urged all parties to implement it in good faith, stressing that "agreements are only as effective as their implementation". Expressing support for the Special Envoy's role in supporting a Syrian-led, UN-facilitated political process, he called on international actors to avoid turning Syria into "an arena of confrontation". France's delegate, focusing on the political front, called for the accelerated implementation of the 10 March agreement between the Syrian transitional authorities and representatives of the Syrian north-east to peacefully restore Syria's unity. "France will be doing everything within its power to facilitate contacts on this issue," he said, adding that his country will soon be hosting discussions in Paris between the parties to forge progress towards an agreement. On the electoral front, the Republic of Korea's representative called for an electoral system that genuinely represents all Syrians, ensuring every sect has the right to choose their representatives and their voices are reflected in the law-making process. "We hope the supreme electoral committee will announce in due course an inclusive electoral system that does not leave any minorities or areas behind," he said, urging it to leverage the UN's technical expertise and incorporate UN guidance into its planning. Espen Barth Eide, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Norway, also underscored the need for an inclusive political transition where "all Syrians are represented, protected and empowered". Stating that "there is hope" in the country, despite many odds, including decades of dictatorship and over a decade of war, he called on the international community to support the country and ensure a successful transition. Security Concerns and Sanctions Panama's representative, voicing concern about the security situation in the country, underscored the urgent need to establish a single professional unified force under the rule of law and responsible for the use of force amidst the proliferation of non-State armed actors and the fragmented security structures. Interim authorities must firmly address the persistent threat posed by foreign fighters and terrorist groups still operating in Syria, including remnants of Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da'esh), he added. Also on that topic, the United States' delegate noted President Donald J. Trump's executive order ending the broader Syria sanctions programme while maintaining targeted measures against destabilizing actors. Announcing the revocation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham's terrorist designation following its reported dissolution, she urged the Council to adjust sanctions to support Syria's stabilization and counterterrorism efforts. Regional Voices Deplore Foreign Interference Iran's delegate was among several regional speakers calling on the Council to reject Israel's dangerous and destabilizing agenda aimed at detaching Syria's southern provinces from the authority of the central Government. Addressing the recent sectarian violence, he called for justice through credible mechanisms, free from foreign interference and political manipulation. The representative of Tunisia, speaking on behalf of the Arab Group, also rejected all forms of foreign interference and imposed agendas. Taking aim at the "brutal Zionist aggression" on Syrian territory, including recent bombings in Damascus that harmed civilians, he accused the "occupying Power" of exploiting Syria's internal unrest to incite sectarian division and demanded full withdrawal from the occupied Syrian Golan. The representative of Turkiyejoined speakers in condemning unprovoked Israeli attacks on Syria, which took that country's disregard for law and State sovereignty to new heights. De-escalation and Israeli non-aggression must be ensured, he said, calling for sustained support to Damascus. Syrian Delegate Welcomes Lifting of Sanctions For his part, Syria's delegate joined calls on the Council to condemn Israeli attacks on his country. Citing recent letters and statements presented by his delegation to the Council, he called on Israel to withdraw its forces from areas it has occupied in the previous month and end its occupation of the Golan, in line with international law, including Council resolutions 242 and 338 (1967), as well as 497 (1981). Voicing regret about the "painful, bloody incidents" in Sweida, he outlined his Government's measures to alleviate the humanitarian fallout, including multiple entry access approval facilitating aid convoys. However, security threats continue, he said, pointing to the recent kidnapping of a humanitarian worker and government workers coming under sniper fire. Highlighting other developments, including the findings and recommendations of the Committee for Investigation and Fact-Finding into the coastal events, which recommended "momentous" measures, including the creation of an independent national human rights institution, he voiced concern over the grave humanitarian situation in his country, worsened by the recent wildfires. In this context, he underscored the need to "definitively turn the page" on sanctions on his country, welcoming the United States' delegate's remarks on the topic. __________ * The 9966th Meeting was closed. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 2nd batch of 42 M1A2T tanks arrives in Taiwan ROC Central News Agency 07/28/2025 10:52 AM Taipei, July 28 (CNA) A second batch of 42 M1A2T Abrams tanks purchased from the United States arrived at Taipei Port late Sunday and were transported in the early hours of Monday to the Army's Armored Training Command in Hsinchu's Hukou Township. At around 12:10 a.m., the tanks, covered in black waterproof tarps, were seen exiting the port on large civilian flatbed trailers. Police and military police vehicles escorted the convoy along the West Coast Expressway to the training base, with traffic controls enforced along the route. The tanks were originally scheduled to arrive at Taipei Port on the night of July 26, but their arrival was delayed due to typhoon-related weather conditions. The Army currently operates around 1,000 tanks, including the CM-11 Brave Tiger and M60A3 models, both of which have been in service for over two decades. While the military has invested in new engines for the M60A3s, it has also earmarked NT$40.52 billion (US$1.37 billion) from 2019-2027 to procure 108 M1A2T tanks from the U.S. These tanks will be deployed with the Army's Sixth Corps to bolster defenses in northern Taiwan. The first batch of 38 M1A2Ts arrived in December last year and conducted their first live-fire exercise on July 10 at the Kengzikou Range in Hsinchu County. Four tanks fired a total of 19 rounds from their 120mm cannons at targets modeled after Chinese tanks, logging a perfect hit rate using the Hunter-Killer system. (By Matt Yu and Sean Lin) Enditem/AW NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lai has no plans to go on overseas visit: Presidential Office ROC Central News Agency 07/28/2025 09:37 PM Taipei, July 28 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te () has no plans to make an overseas visit in the near future, a spokesperson for Lai said Monday, after local and foreign media had reported in mid-July he would visit Paraguay in August with stops in the United States. "In consideration of the ongoing rehabilitation efforts in southern Taiwan following a recent typhoon and regional developments including the United States' tariffs, the president currently has no plans to go on an overseas visit," Presidential Office spokesperson Karen Kuo () said in a statement. As usual, once the itinerary of an overseas visit by the president is finalized, the office will notify the media, Kuo said in response to recent media queries about plans to alter or cancel overseas visits by Lai. An AFP report on July 14 cited Paraguay President Santiago Pena as saying at an investment forum that day that Lai will visit his country "in 30 days." At the time Pena made the comment, he was hosting a delegation comprising around 30 business leaders and Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung () in Asuncion, according to the report. Bloomberg News reported two days later that Lai was planning to stop in New York on Aug. 4 and then Dallas 10 days later as part of a trip to diplomatic allies Paraguay, Guatemala and Belize. A Bloomberg report on Monday, however, said planning for the trip was thrown into flux late last week when Taiwan could not get the U.S. to give the green light, with the Trump administration concerned it could derail trade talks with China, according to anonymous sources. In response, Bloomberg quoted Presidential Office spokesperson Lii Wen () as saying those claims were "pure speculation based on incorrect information." (By Yeh Su-ping and Sean Lin) Enditem/ls NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address DPP secretary-general submits resignation after legislative recall loss ROC Central News Agency 07/28/2025 12:51 PM Taipei, July 28 (CNA) Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Secretary-General Lin Yu-chang () said Monday that he has submitted his resignation following the failure of the mass legislative recall campaign backed by his party over the weekend. In his Facebook account, Lin wrote that he tendered his resignation to President Lai Ching-te (), who is also DPP chairman, on Sunday. As the ruling party's secretary-general, Lin said he is responsible for any shortcomings and failure to meet the expectations of both society and party supporters. He further went on to praise the recall campaign volunteers for their selfless spirit, courage and unwavering commitment to Taiwan. "What we need least is to make excuses for the outcome, but instead to move forward," Lin said, noting that while there are many challenges, people must continue to defend Taiwan. His announcement came after all 24 lawmakers of the main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) who were up for recall survived the unprecedented votes on Saturday, ensuring that the KMT along with Taiwan People's Party lawmakers will maintain opposition control of the Legislature. As of press time, President Lai had yet to formally accept Lin's resignation. (By Yeh Su-ping and Ko Lin) Enditem/AW NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese FM urges Japan to act prudently on Taiwan question, not to harm China's sovereignty, and send wrong signal following island official's Japan visit Global Times By Global Times Published: Jul 28, 2025 08:02 PM When asked to comment on reports that the head of Taiwan's so-called "foreign affairs department" recently visited Japan in a "private capacity" and met with Japanese politicians, including former Minister for Economic Security Sanae Takaichi and director of the LDP Youth Division Nakasone Yasutaka, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated on Monday that by allowing Lin Chia-lung to make the so-called "private" trip, Japan provided a platform for "Taiwan independence" forces to engage in anti-China separatist activities, seriously violated the basic norms governing international relations and the principles in the four political documents between China and Japan, and sent out a gravely wrong signal. China strongly deplores and firmly opposes it. We've lodged serious representations to the Japanese side in Beijing and Tokyo and made strong protests, Guo said. Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. The Taiwan question is at the core of China's core interests, and bears on the political foundation of China-Japan relations and basic trust between the two countries, Guo said. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the World Anti-Fascist War, and the restoration of Taiwan. Japan's colonial rule over Taiwan lasted for more than 50 years and Japan bears serious historical responsibilities to the Chinese people, said the spokesperson. We urge Japan to abide by the principles in the four political documents between China and Japan, act on its solemn commitment, deeply reflect on and learn lessons from history, act all the more prudently on the Taiwan question, not to harm China's sovereignty in any way and not to send any wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, Guo said. Japan should never underestimate the firm resolve, will and ability of the Chinese people to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity, Guo noted. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Recall vote shows DPP's manipulation runs against Taiwan people's will: mainland spokesperson People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 09:27, July 28, 2025 BEIJING, July 27 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Sunday said that the failure of a recall vote targeting opposition lawmakers in Taiwan's local legislature shows that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)'s political manipulation runs against the will of the people. During the vote on Saturday, the Kuomintang party scored a sweeping victory, retaining all 24 seats. Responding to the outcome, Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said the DPP, driven by its pursuit of "Taiwan independence" and avarice for one-party monopoly, repeatedly stirred up political strife at the expense of Taiwan people's well-being. The DPP has resorted to every means to suppress political dissent, create "green terror" and deepen social division, fully revealing its hypocritical nature of "fake democracy, real authoritarianism," Chen said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC Ministry of National Defense 2025/07/28 PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan 1.Date 6 a.m. Jul. 27 (Sun.) to 6 a.m. Jul. 28 (Mon.) (UTC+8) 2.PLA activities 4 sorties of PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN ships operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 4 out of 4 sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southwestern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy ships, and coastal missile systems in response to detected activities. 1140728_ PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan [Open a new window] 1140728_PLA air activities in the vicinity of Taiwan [Open a new window] NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Failed recall vote bid a big blow for Lai, Taiwan's DPP People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 10:50, July 29, 2025 TAIPEI, July 28 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) failure in their Taiwan recall vote endeavors on Saturday is widely seen as a sweeping victory for the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party and a direct expression of public dissatisfaction with DPP authorities led by Lai Ching-te. DPP authorities suffered a major political blow as all recall votes targeting 24 legislators of the KMT proved unsuccessful on Saturday. During ballot counting on the same day, "no" votes consistently outnumbered "yes" votes in all 24 recall cases, sinking every DPP proposal. In addition, a recall vote targeting the suspended mayor of Hsinchu also failed to pass. An editorial by Taiwan's United Daily News noted that faced with what it called a climate of "green terror" created by the DPP, many previously silent voters were spurred to cast resounding "no" votes out of feelings of frustration -- describing the outcome as a sharp public rebuke to Lai and the DPP authorities. Since taking office, DPP authorities and their leader Lai have been accused of fueling political polarization and demonizing legislative oversight by the opposition -- a tactic aimed at drawing attention away from their poor performance. The paper added that Lai's hardline political approach had ultimately backfired, undermining both his credibility and the public's trust. Over the past year and more, public dissatisfaction with the DPP authorities has been mounting in Taiwan, stemming from their obstruction of cross-Strait exchanges, a submissive yielding to the U.S. regarding high tariffs, and their sluggish and inadequate response in terms of disaster relief work after a typhoon hit the island in recent days. This growing public discontent was reflected in a poll conducted by Yahoo Kimo, a major portal website in Taiwan -- which showed that 88.1 percent of respondents were "very satisfied" with the recall vote results. Meanwhile, netizens flooded Lai's latest social media post, with some expressing frustration over the political infighting and others mocking the failed recall campaign as a waste of effort. By 10 a.m. on Monday, more than 38,000 comments had been left under the post. The DPP, notably, currently only holds 51 seats in Taiwan's 113-seat legislature. Observers believe that while the recall campaign, which began at the start of the year, appeared to be initiated by "civil groups," it was in fact orchestrated by the DPP authorities -- in an attempt to reverse their disadvantage in the legislature through recalls and by-elections. On June 20, just as the recall vote date was announced, Lai promptly launched his so-called "10 lectures on unity" campaign. However, each speech was met with a flood of criticism, and as of now, only four of them have been delivered. Concerns over the social impact of the recall campaign have also grown. Taiwan-based newspaper China Times said in an editorial that the recall bid had opened a "Pandora's box" of hatred and infighting within Taiwan society. If this continues, the paper warned, all that may remain in Taiwan is division and hostility. Reports estimate that a single recall in a local district costs about 17 million New Taiwan dollars (roughly 576,600 U.S. dollars), while a larger constituency requires up to 20 million New Taiwan dollars -- all funded by taxpayers. Legislator Huang Jen urged the authorities to focus on real issues, such as soaring housing prices, stagnant wages and unequal access to education -- instead of wasting energy on the likes of political campaigning, vendettas and appeasement of foreign powers, as Lai has chosen to do. Critics further accuse the DPP of using the recall campaign to spread "Taiwan independence" rhetoric and intensify cross-Strait confrontation in pursuit of political gain. However, results of the vote over this past weekend confirm that such crude tactics have long been seen for what they are by the public, whose mainstream desire is clearly in favor of peaceful cross-Strait relations. What is also evident, is that the DPP, as a minority party in the legislature, should have focused on sound performance to regain public trust, rather than resorting to mass recalls, said Cheng Tzu-chen, a professor at the Chinese Culture University in Taipei, while adding that this approach revealed a lack of democratic maturity and had only alienated the public further. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address "The terror-free Turkiye process is a project of our state and our nation" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 28.07.2025 Delivering remarks following the Presidential Cabinet Meeting, President Erdogan said: "The terror-free Turkiye process is a project of not only the People's Alliance but also of our government, our state, and most importantly, our nation. It is a dream, a wish, and an expectation of the 86 million. We see this dream coming true step by step." President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered a speech following the Presidential Cabinet Meeting at the Presidential Complex. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered a speech following the Presidential Cabinet Meeting at the Presidential Complex. President Erdogan said: "We thoroughly discussed critical issues during today's cabinet meeting. We had an in-depth review of the developments in foreign policy. We analyzed the wildfires which, with the arrival of summer, intensified in our country along with the rest of the world. We made an assessment of the good news we took recently, including the upgrade in our country's credit rating and the expansion of our Central Bank reserves to 169 billion dollars. We reviewed the recent situation about the terror-free Turkiye process. Also on the agenda were our moves in defense industry that draw the entire world's admiration. We have taken important decisions concerning all these issues to take our country closer to its goals." "WE WILL STAND BY THE TURKISH CYPRIOTS IN ALL THE STEPS THEY TAKE TOWARD A PROSPEROUS FUTURE" Recalling his visit to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) on July 20 on the Peace and Freedom Day, President Erdogan stated: "Celebrating with great enthusiasm the 51st anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation with our Turkish Cypriot brothers and sisters once again, we remembered with grace our heroic martyrs. We crowned our visit with the inauguration of the Maras Medical Center and the Lefkosa North Beltway Flyover Junction and Connected Roads. During the same event, we also broke ground for the first phase of the Yeni Lefkosa Public Hospital, which has a 50,000-sq km indoor area and 320-bed capacity. I hope the projects we inaugurated and broke ground for will be auspicious for our Turkish Cypriot brothers and sisters. As the motherland and the guarantor country, we will stand with the Turkish Cypriots in all the steps they take toward a prosperous future." "WE WILL CONTINUE OUR INVESTMENTS AT FULL PACE IN DEFENSE INDUSTRY" Noting that he attended the opening ceremony of the 17th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) in Istanbul, President Erdogan said: "Once again, there was great interest in the fair, which is one of the most comprehensive and most influential occasions globally in its own realm. 231 delegations and 980 delegation members participated in the IDEF 2025, where products with state-of-the-art technology were showcased." President Erdogan added: "The contracts signed during the fair exceeded 9 billion dollars in commercial value. The contract for the procurement of 48 KAAN fighters to Indonesia, as well as the agreement on the purchase of Eurofighters are of exceptional importance to our country. We, thus, reaffirmed our determination to scale up our deterrence in keeping with our needs on one hand, and to implement our own projects on the other hand. We will continue our investments at full pace in defense industry, where we have increased the share of domestic production from around 20 percent to over 80 percent over the past 23 years." "TURKIYE HAS PURSUED A BALANCED, FAIR AND PEACEFUL POLICY SINCE DAY ONE IN THE RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR" Highlighting Turkiye's peace diplomacy in the face of the escalation in the crises, conflicts and wars in its near environ, President Erdogan stated that Turkiye has pursued a balanced, fair and peaceful policy since day one in the Russia-Ukraine war, and added: "The grain corridor agreement, prisoner swaps, and the talks in Istanbul and Antalya are the outcomes of our belief in peace. 1000 prisoners were exchanged mutually following the first round of the negotiations held in Istanbul on May 16. Following the second round on June 2, bodies of 97 Russian soldiers were exchanged for bodies of as many as 7,060 Ukrainian soldiers, with a prisoner exchange comprised of 1,200 people completed. During the third round of the negotiations on July 23, facilitated by our Foreign Minister, an agreement was reached to exchange more prisoners of war, numbering at least 1.200 individuals. We believe this war must stop. I stress at every opportunity that we are ready to host a meeting at the leaders' level. It is Turkiye's most sincere wish that just as the negotiation table was set up in Istanbul, a peace table will also be set up in Turkiye in the not-so-distant future, bringing this bloody war to an end." "THE PATH WE HAVE TAKEN UP WILL DEFINITELY LEAD US TO A STRONG TURKIYE WITH ITS DEMOCRACY AND ECONOMY" Pointing out that while the Turkish government is endeavoring for peace across the region, it is also determinedly dealing with evil circles that seek to undermine the peace and unity of the country, President Erdogan said, "the terror-free Turkiye process is a project of not only the People's Alliance but also of our government, our state, and most importantly, our nation. It is a dream, a wish, and an expectation of the 86 million. We see this dream coming true step by step. All can rest assured that this path we have taken up will definitely lead us to a strong Turkiye with its democracy and economy," and added: "At the end of this path are brotherhood, development, peace, solidarity, and the will to build a shared future. We are well aware of the magnitude of our responsibilities." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PM meeting with President Trump of the United States: 28 July 2025 The Prime Minister met US President Donald Trump in Scotland today. From: Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street and The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP Published 28 July 2025 The Prime Minister met US President Donald Trump in Scotland today. The leaders began by discussing the appalling scenes in Gaza and agreed that urgent action was needed to bring an end to the suffering, which has reached new depths. Humanitarian aid had to be allowed in at scale and pace. They committed to work together to bring an end to the misery and starvation and continue to press for the immediate release of the remaining hostages, who have been held so cruelly for so long. They reiterated their calls for an immediate ceasefire to pave the way for peace in the region and the Prime Minister welcomed the President's efforts to secure this, and shared the plans he is working on with other European leaders to bring about a lasting peace. Turning to Ukraine, the leaders agreed that they must maintain momentum to bring about an end to the war with Russia, including by putting economic pressure on Putin to come to the table without further delay. On the landmark Economic Prosperity Deal, the leaders remarked on how beneficial the deal is for working people in the UK and the US and agreed to continue to work together to build further on their close and strong economic relationship. The leaders discussed plans for the President's upcoming State Visit in September, which they both looked forward to. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese FM urges Ukraine to correct mistake, eliminate negative impact after announcement of sanctions targeting entities including those from China Global Times By Global Times Published: Jul 28, 2025 06:53 PM Responding to a question about new round of sanctions announced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky which targeted 53 individuals and legal entities from China and other countries, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday that China consistently opposes unilateral sanctions that lack a basis in international law and are not authorized by the UN Security Council. Guo urged Ukraine to immediately correct its mistake and eliminate the negative impact. China will resolutely safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its enterprises, he added at Monday's press conference. Ukrainian President enacted a new round of sanctions on Sunday, targeting dozens of individuals and companies that it claims to be linked to Russia's defense industry, the Kyiv Independent reported. The report quoted Zelensky as saying that the decree synchronizes Ukraine's sanctions with European sanctions. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SACEUR on support for Ukraine: We are moving as quickly as we can NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) Jul 28 2025 Recently, General Alexus G. Grynkewich, the 21st Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), paid one of his first official visits since taking office to the NATO Security Assistance & Training for Ukraine (NSATU) headquarters. Based at Clay Kaserne in Wiesbaden, Germany, NSATU leads NATO's coordination of training, equipment support & logistics, and force development support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other Ukrainian partners. NSATU Commander, Lieutenant General Curtis Buzzard, welcomed SACEUR alongside the leadership team of the headquarters. Today, NSATU includes over 300 personnel from 28 NATO nations, with additional contributions from Australia and New Zealand, working closely with representatives of the Ukrainian Defence Forces. During his visit, General Grynkewich received in-depth briefings on NSATU's core activities, including the work of the Logistics Enabling Node-Poland (LEN-P). This critical node currently manages the reception and onward movement of approximately 18,000 tons of donated military material per month, ensuring sustained support for Ukraine's defense. Earlier at the Association of the U.S. Army's LANDEURO symposium at the RheinMain Conference Center elsewhere in Wiesbaden, SACEUR noted "war persists on our doorstep." He said time is therefore of the essence, both in terms of delivery the capabilities Allies agreed to at the NATO Summit in The Hague and on delivering needed support to Ukraine. When asked about recent plans by the U.S. and NATO to get Ukraine additional air defences and other military aid, SACEUR told those at the symposium NATO was focused on delivering these needed capabilities fast. "We're going to move as quickly as we can on this," he said. Story by NSATU HQ PAO NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address West never prioritized settlement of Ukraine crisis: Russian FM spokesperson People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 10:53, July 28, 2025 MOSCOW, July 26 (Xinhua) -- Peace talks and the settlement of the Ukraine crisis have never been on the West's real agenda, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Saturday. "We need to get to the root of the issue and understand that terms like 'peace negotiations,' 'negotiations in general,' and 'political and diplomatic settlement' have never been a true trend or a true philosophy of the West," she said. Zakharova also called for an international day against Russophobia to counter the West's anti-Russian narrative. Under the banner of Russophobia, weapons flow to Kiev, and children of various nations perish indiscriminately, she added. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Shortens Cease-Fire Deadline To 10-12 Days For Putin Amid Frustration Over Ukraine By RFE/RL July 28, 2025 U.S. President Donald Trump says he will shorten the cease-fire deadline given to Russian President Vladimir Putin to 10 to 12 days amid growing frustration over Russia's continue bombardment of Ukraine and lack of progress toward peace. Speaking to journalists in in Turnberry, Scotland on July 28, Trump said he is "very disappointed" with Putin and that he "doesn't need to wait" for the end of the initial 50-day deadline he gave for the two sides earlier this month if Moscow doesn't reach a peace deal with Kyiv. "I'm going to make a new deadline for about 10 or 12 days from today," Trump told reporters as he met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. "When you deal with someone long enough, you know what they're going to do or not do," he said. "I gave him [Putin] a chance. He's not taking it." While announcing the original 50-day deadline on July 14, Trump threatened to impose "very severe tariffs" on Russia and also suggested the possibility of targeting countries that purchase Russian energy exports. Announcing the new, shorter deadline, Trump said, "Maybe we'll still make a deal with Russia, but it's very late in the process." Last Friday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Trump is "losing patience" with Moscow and "losing the desire to continue waiting," hinting at potential serious consequences. Ukraine welcomed Trump's remarks. Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, wrote on Telegram: "We thank President of the United States Donald Trump for his firm position and a clear signal -- peace through strength," Yermak said. "President Trump stated that he is shortening the deadline he gave Putin to end the war because he believes the answer is obvious. Putin understands only strength, and that message has now been delivered clearly and loudly. This is a principle fully shared by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy." Russia has yet to officially comment on Trump's latest statement. Ukrainian and Russian delegations met on July 23 for peace talks, the third round in a series of negotiations that began on May 16 but made little progress. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/president- donald-trump-russia-ukraine-war-statement-scotland- peace-starmer/33486021.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Air Attack Injures 5 In Kyiv As Alert Sounds For Eastern Of Ukraine By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service July 28, 2025 Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko urged people in Kyiv to stay in shelters as explosions were heard in the Ukrainian capital and its suburbs during a Russian air attack launched late on July 27. The head of the military administration in Kyiv, Tymur Tkachenko, said on Telegram that at least five people were injured and a residential building was damaged. The attack on Kyiv was part of a broader assault on the country. An air alert was declared for most of Ukraine at 11:50 p.m. local time on July 27. The alert covered the entire east as well as the region surrounding Kyiv, according to air defense forces. Polish aircraft were activated to ensure the safety of Polish airspace, the Operational Command of the Polish armed forces said. Russian forces have launched a high number of drone attacks against Ukraine in recent weeks in an effort to overwhelm air defense systems. A Russian strike earlier on July 27 hit a bus carrying civilians in a village in Ukraine's northeastern Sumy region. Three people were killed and 19 were injured, including one in serious condition, the regional military administration reported on the evening of July 27. The attack occurred at around 4:30 p.m. local time on July 27 near the village of Ivolzhanske in the Yunakivska community, the head of the regional military administration, Oleh Hrygorov, said. There were 39 passengers on the bus. The people who were killed were residents of the Yunakivska community who had been evacuated. They periodically visit their homes and farms in the border community. Their bus has repeatedly come under enemy fire. With reporting by Reuters, AP, and dpa Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/33485580.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pentagon Eyes Ukraine as Drone Testing Ground After Alaska Failures Sputnik News 20250728 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The US Department of Defense (DOD) views Ukraine to be a potential polygon for drone testing after it ran into difficulties during the June trials in Alaska, Defense News reported, citing sources in Pentagon. Earlier this summer, five US companies underwent drone testing in Alaska to see if their prototypes were able to withstand GPS disruption and if they were ready to transition to the military services. "Providing an opportunity for these companies to assess their products in a contested environment against a notional threat is really valuable, one, for the DOD to assess their product in that way. But it's also important for the companies to see where they're succeeding or where they're falling short so they can make tweaks and have a better product," one of the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) officials told Defense News. Commercial companies, especially small ones, do not have access to test spaces that are similar to field conditions, so the Pentagon needs to provide such conditions if it wants to achieve new technologies fast and efficiently, the report said. "If we want to succeed, we have to embed engineers with warfighters, and we have to be out in the field testing. We have to do it all the time," DIU's Trent Emeneker was quoted as saying by Defense News. To solve this issue, Emeneker proposed testing drones on the Ukrainian front lines, adding that "there's no better place in the world" to do it. However, according to the report, it is difficult for the Department of Defense to officially send start-ups to Ukraine for in-country testing after US President Donald Trump assumed office, and the political tension between the current administration and the Ukrainian government increased. On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had reached an agreement with US President Donald Trump on the supply of Ukrainian-made drones worth $10-30 billion to the United States. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Says Will Set New Deadline of 10-12 Days for Russia to Agree on Peace Deal Sputnik News 20250728 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - US President Donald Trump announced his intention on Monday to establish a new deadline of approximately 10 to 12 days for Russia to reach a peace agreement with Ukraine, significantly shortening the previous timeline of 50 days. "I'm going to make a new deadline [for Russia] of about 10 or 12 days from today. There's no reason in waiting," Trump told reporters following a bilateral meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland. "I want to be generous, but we just don't see any progress being made [in Ukraine]." Earlier in the month, the US president said that Washington would impose 100% duties on goods from Russia and introduce secondary sanctions on countries purchasing Russian oil if a ceasefire agreement between Moscow and Kiev was not reached within 50 days. "I am disappointed in [Russian] President [Vladimir] Putin, very disappointed in him. So we are going to have a look. And I am going to reduce that 50 days that I gave him to a lesser number, because I think I already know the answer to what is going to happen," Trump told reporters . Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement by the MFA of Ukraine on the 3rd Anniversary of the Mass Killing of Ukrainian PoWs by Russia in Olenivka Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine 28 July 2025 13:01 Three years ago, on the night of July 28-29, 2022, the Russian Federation committed one of the most horrific and cynical war crimes against Ukrainian prisoners of war (PoWs) on the territory of the former correctional colony No. 210 in the village of Olenivka on the temporarily occupied territory of the Donetsk region of Ukraine. As a result of an explosion on the territory of the correctional colony where they were held, more than 50 Ukrainian defenders from Azovstal, who were in captivity, were killed. About 150 were injured to varying degrees of severity. This tragic day serves as a reminder to the whole world that for Russia there are no norms of international humanitarian law, laws and customs of war. Impunity only encourages the Russian invaders to commit new war crimes. We remind the international community that the Olenivka colony is a place of death and torture. Thus, from the beginning of the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation until the end of July 2022, the head of the colony organized the torture of more than 100 captured Ukrainian soldiers. For torture, PoWs were taken to a specially created "disciplinary isolation room" on the territory of the colony. In the colony, people were subjected to various types of physical violence and psychological pressure, accompanied by constant threats of "slow" killing. Since 2025, July 28 has been the Day of Remembrance of the Defenders of Ukraine, members of volunteer formations, as well as civilians who were tortured, executed or killed in captivity. We draw the world's attention to the fact that, according to the data of the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine, more than 5,000 PoWs and over 5,600 civilian detainees have become victims of Russian war crimes. The prisoners have been systematically tortured: beaten, electrocuted, attacked by service dogs, suffocated, hung by hands or legs, subjected to mock executions, and sexually assaulted. Cases of mutilation, burns, and psychological abuse were recorded. 176 stationary places of deprivation of liberty and more than 120 temporary (transit) detention points were identified on the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine and Russia. Underlining Ukraine's unwavering commitment to the norms and principles of international humanitarian law, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine emphasizes the urgent need for immediate action by the international community in response to Russia's systematic torture, executions, and killing of PoWs and civilian hostages. We insist on the need to intensify pressure, including sanctions, on the Russian Federation to immediately release all Ukrainian PoWs, internees, civilians, forcibly displaced persons, and deportees, including children, and to respect their rights in accordance with the provisions of the Geneva Convention Relative to the Treatment of Prisoners of War of 12 August 1949, and Protocol Additional (Protocol I) to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949. We insist on the urgent need to investigate the mass killing and torture of Ukrainian PoWs in the Olenivka colony and other crimes against Ukrainian citizens who have been and remain in captivity. Ukraine calls on the International Criminal Court to issue arrest warrants for those involved - both the direct perpetrators and those who gave the orders and are attempting to conceal the commission of this international crime. We urge international judicial bodies, governmental and non-governmental organizations, and human rights defenders to respond to Russia's systematic violations of international humanitarian law and human rights, including torture, executions, and killing of prisoners. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine will continue to make every effort to protect the rights of our citizens and hold accountable all those involved in war crimes. We will not stop until we bring our people home. We will not stop until those guilty of atrocities are punished. We will neither forget, nor allow the world to forget. Eternal memory and honour to the fallen Ukrainian defenders. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Denys Shmyhal: Ukraine and the United States continue to maintain a robust dialog on defense matters Ministry of Defence of Ukraine 28 July, 2025, 2:07 PM EEST Minister of Defence of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal met with Charge d'Affaires ad interim at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, Julie S. Davis; Defense Attache at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, Brigadier General Brad Nicholson; and Commander of SAG-U and NSATU, Lieutenant General Curtis A. Buzzard. "Ukraine and the United States continue to maintain a robust dialogue on defense matters. I expressed gratitude to the United States, President Trump, and the U.S. Congress for their extraordinary support, especially for announcing the transfer of Patriot systems and long-range weapons. This is crucial for protecting people from daily russian shelling," the Minister of Defence stated. The parties discussed the progress in implementing agreements on defense support and the development of bilateral cooperation, particularly regarding joint drone production. According to Denys Shmyhal, the countries are already preparing new significant projects. Additionally, the delegations summarized the outcomes of the Ramstein-format meeting. Denys Shmyhal expressed gratitude for the participation of U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and underscored the importance of convening the next meeting in person in the near future. "We work in close coordination with our American partners. Achieving lasting peace through strength remains our steadfast objective. And we are confident that this goal can be realized under the leadership of the United States," emphasized the Minister of Defence of Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address There Was an Extremely Significant Statement by President Trump; And It Is True: It Is Russia Who Is Doing Everything to Undermine Peace Efforts and Drag Out This War - Address by the President President of Ukraine 28 July 2025 - 21:17 I wish you health! First of all, I would like to thank all our warriors who are defending Ukrainian skies. Overnight, our warriors neutralized another three hundred Russian drones - many of them were shot down. There have been good results in downing 'shaheds' with interceptor drones. Army aviation, Air Force aviation, and mobile fire groups did a good job. We are ramping up everything that can provide additional protection for our cities, our Ukrainian communities. Thank you to everyone who is helping. Yesterday, in my conversation with President Macron, we agreed that Ukraine will provide a clear and detailed outline of our current funding needs for drones. The updated document is already being presented to our partners - the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, together with the team from the President's Office, has prepared everything. The drone-related objectives set for this year will be fully met. Today, I spoke with the President of Estonia. I thanked him for the support, and I especially value Estonia's position, the position of all the Baltic states, in relation to European integration. A clear and principled stance. The same goes for our other friends in the European Union - thanks a lot. Ukraine delivers on its promises. Today, there was an extremely significant statement by President Trump. And it is true: it is Russia who is doing everything to undermine peace efforts and drag out this war. Every night there are strikes, constant Russian attempts to hurt Ukraine. Indeed, peace is possible if we act strongly and decisively, and we have repeatedly said - and all partners know this - that sanctions are a key element. Russia factors in the sanctions, factors in such losses. Peace through strength is possible. Ukraine, as always, is ready to work with America, with President Trump, in the most productive way possible, to end this war with dignity and lasting peace. I thank everyone in our Ukrainian foreign policy team who is working for this - for a truly meaningful relationship with America. A few more things. Today, I signed a law that strengthens the Security Service of Ukraine giving it greater capacity to carry out combat tasks, eliminate the occupier, and conduct special operations to defend Ukraine. The number of personnel is being increased, particularly for the "A" Special Operations Center of the Security Service of Ukraine. These are among our most effective warriors. I also signed the law we discussed with the families of Ukrainians held in Russian captivity - and with our warriors themselves, those who were freed and have returned home. The law restores justice. It resolves the financial issue, ensuring that warriors who were taken prisoner receive the same financial guarantees as all other defenders of Ukraine. Today, I was at the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War. We held a special meeting dedicated to this particular day - the Day of Remembrance, the Day when we honor the memory of those killed in Olenivka. At that time, the Russians committed one of the biggest massacres - over 50 Azov fighters were killed in Olenivka in an explosion and fire, and nearly 150 others were severely wounded. An absolutely heinous crime. From now on, every year, Ukrainians will honor the memory of all our people who were killed - those who were executed or tortured in Russian captivity, in Russian prisons, in Russian camps, and on the front line. Today, the Headquarters team reported on the current status of our people - those we are searching for among the prisoners and those we are bringing home. Some of those already returned were also present. Taira, Leniie Umerova, Azov fighters, warriors of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Military personnel and civilians. We discussed what needs to be done to improve the rehabilitation of our people after captivity. We talked about how we can make the organization of prisoner exchanges more effective. Following this discussion, I instructed the preparation of draft laws to provide more rights and opportunities to those released from captivity. There are decisions that can be made by the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Health, the military command, and the negotiation team. I expect implementation and reporting by the end of the week. We have already brought back 5,857 of our people through exchanges. We are looking for every single name. We must bring everyone home. Ukrainians deserve to live in peace, in their own home, in an independent Ukrainian state. Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address President of Ukraine Holds Phone Call with President of Estonia President of Ukraine 28 July 2025 - 18:47 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a phone call with President of Estonia Alar Karis. Alar Karis expressed his condolences on the occasion of the Day of Remembrance for the Defenders of Ukraine, members of volunteer formations, and civilians who were executed, tortured, or died in captivity. Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked him for his support and solidarity with the Ukrainian people. The Head of State specifically highlighted Estonia's contribution to strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities, in particular the decision to allocate 0.25% of the country's GDP annually for the defense needs of our state, leadership in the IT Coalition, and the training and rehabilitation of Ukrainian warriors. The leaders discussed scaling up these areas of cooperation to further support the people of Ukraine. The Presidents of Ukraine and Estonia also discussed Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure, which is fully operational. Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that last week his bill was submitted to the Verkhovna Rada that guarantees the independence and effectiveness of anti-corruption bodies. Alar Karis expressed his support for Ukraine's efforts in combating corruption. The Head of State invited the President of Estonia to visit Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address President: Starting Today, July 28, We Will Observe an Important Day of Remembrance for Ukrainians Tortured by Russia President of Ukraine 28 July 2025 - 17:18 Today, July 28, Ukraine marks for the first time the Day of Remembrance for the Defenders of Ukraine, members of volunteer formations, and civilians who were executed, tortured, or died in captivity. On this day, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the team working to secure the release of prisoners and provide them with support, as well as with servicemembers and civilians who had been freed from captivity, including Azov fighters and defenders of Mariupol, and those who survived the Russian terrorist act in Olenivka on the night of July 29, 2022. Attending the meeting were: Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Rustem Umerov; Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko; Head of the Security Service of Ukraine Vasyl Maliuk; Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets; Secretary of the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War Dmytro Usov; the team of the President's Office; servicemembers Viacheslav Danilets, Viktor Kuzmin, Andrii Kuzmin, Kyrylo Masalitin, and Oleksandr Verenhotov; Heroes of Ukraine Serhii Volynskyi and Denys Prokopenko; Mykola Hrytseniak, Kostiantyn Myrhorodskyi, Artem Dyblenko; border guards Maksym Shapovalov and Mykola Korol; military medics Halyna Hrytseniak and Dmytro Seliutin; paramedic Yuliia Paievska; and Crimean Tatar civilian Leniie Umerova, who was captured by the occupiers in Crimea. "It is very important that our children, our present generation, and our future - that no one forgets this day. Starting today, July 28, we will observe a day of great significance for the history of the struggle for Ukraine. It will be dedicated to all our warriors and civilians who were tortured behind bars in Russia, in camps, and on our homeland's territory - in those areas that are occupied by the enemy for now," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The President called for the meeting to begin with a moment of silence in memory of all tortured Ukrainians. The Head of State thanked the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, the negotiation team, partners, and everyone helping secure the release of Ukrainians from Russian captivity. He expressed special gratitude to the warriors who replenish the exchange fund. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, 66 exchanges have already taken place, resulting in the return of 5,857 people. An additional 555 Ukrainians were released outside the exchange process. "Unfortunately, not all have returned home yet - but we will keep fighting. I want to thank you for your work and your struggle, for standing up for each and every one of those still in captivity. In Olenivka alone, according to our data, around 80 of our warriors remain imprisoned. We will definitely bring everyone back," the President emphasized. During the meeting, the participants discussed the necessary efforts to secure the release of all Ukrainians from Russian captivity, the progress of the criminal investigation into the Olenivka terrorist act, engagement with the families of prisoners, support for those released from Russian camps, the repatriation of bodies, and measures to accelerate the identification of the deceased. Those freed from captivity thanked the entire Ukrainian team involved in the exchanges for bringing them home and for their ongoing efforts to free all Ukrainians from Russian captivity. "I'm also very grateful that July 28 has now been designated at the national level as a day of remembrance for all those who were tortured, killed, or died in captivity. This matters, because it lays bare the true face of the enemy... I believe this is the right step - above all, for our cultural memory, so that we remember every single one of them," said Denys Prokopenko. Those released from captivity also stressed the need to improve the medical examination and treatment system, enhance the process of compiling exchange lists, and update the register of Ukrainian civilians detained by the Russian Federation. The President tasked the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council and the Minister of Defense with reviewing these matters and preparing proposals to resolve them. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Following SSU investigation, FSB mole who spied for enemy while working at Ukrtelecom sentenced to 15 years in prison Security Service of Ukraine 18:00, 28 July 2025 Following SSU investigation, an FSB agent who worked at Ukrtelecom JSC (Ukraine's telephone company) was sentenced to 15 years in prison with confiscation of property. As a member of the management of Ukraine's largest telecommunications companies, the official leaked classified information about communications in the Defense Forces to the occupiers. It has been documented how the agent attempted to pass an electronic diagram of telephone connections to one of the military units in Kyiv region to his handler. The enemy planned to use the intelligence to hack telecommunications networks to gain access to landline numbers and subscribers' conversations. SSU cyber experts have prevented the occupiers' attempts to penetrate closed telephone communication channels and secured them. At the final stage of the special operation in May 2024, the SSU detained a russian mole. The pre-trial investigation has uncovered another agent's task to monitor the locations of air defense units protecting a key power plant in the region. During the searches, the detainee was seized of a phone with an anonymous chat used for secret contacts with the handler. Based on the evidence collected by SSU cyber experts and investigators, the mole was found guilty under Article 111.2 of the CCU (high treason committed under martial law). The investigation was carried out by the SSU Office in Kharkiv region under the procedural supervision of Kharkiv Region Prosecutor's Office and Dnipro District Prosecutor's Office in Kyiv. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SSU detains Belarusian KGB agent who was spying on Ukraine's northern border Security Service of Ukraine 10:00, 28 July 2025 The SSU Counterintelligence has thwarted plans of Belarusian special services to obtain intelligence data on the defense of Ukraine's northern border. Proactive measures in Volyn led to the arrest of a Belarusian KGB agent who was spying on Ukrainian troops. According to the investigation, the suspect is a 24-year-old local unemployed man who was looking for "easy money" on Telegram channels. The agent agreed to carry out tasks for Belarusian special services, in exchange for money, including monitoring of the locations of checkpoints and fortified areas of the Defense Forces on the northern border of Ukraine. In addition, following orders from the KGB, the suspect attempted to identify military trains moving along local routes or located at Ukrainian railway transit stations. To gather intelligence, the agent walked around the area, recording the fortifications of the Defense Forces and marking their geolocations on Google Maps. SSU officers have timely exposed the suspect, documented his crimes, and detained him at home. During a search of the detainee's home, investigators have seized a phone with an anonymous chat in a messenger app, which was used to contact a Belarusian special services officer, who has already been established by the SSU Counterintelligence. During the special operation, the bases and logistics routes of Ukrainian defenders have been also secured. Based on the evidence collected, the detainee has been notified of suspicion under Article 111.2 of the CCU (treason committed under martial law). The offender is in custody facing life imprisonment with confiscation of property. The investigation was carried out by the SSU Office in Volyn region under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor's Office. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NEW YORK, July 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With consumers increasingly searching for comfortable rings, hypoallergenic fine jewelry, and daily-wear engagement rings, She Said Yes is answering the callintroducing a new design standard that blends beauty with all-day comfort. Positioning itself at the intersection of innovation and wearability, She Said Yes is redefining the experience of fine jewelry through what it calls second-skin comfort. By incorporating curved ring walls, half-size ring options, and hypoallergenic coatings, the brand ensures that each piece feels as good as it looks. In user tests, customers reported being able to wear rings for over 12 hours without pressure, discomfort, or irritation. Unlike traditional fine jewelry, which is often reserved for special occasions, She Said Yes creates pieces designed for movement, flexibility, and daily wear. Its new storytelling series, Jewelry Daily, profiles real women as they navigate their livesproving that well-designed jewelry can keep up with everything from boardroom meetings to prenatal yoga. A professional woman wears her comfort-fit engagement ring through long days at the office and evening dinnersno pinching or swelling, just effortless elegance. A fitness instructor transitions from a barre class to errands without needing to remove her ring, thanks to hypoallergenic, sweat-safe materials. A pregnant customer chooses a half-size ring to adjust with her bodyan option rarely offered by traditional jewelers. These stories reflect the brands mission: fine jewelry that moves with your lifenot against it. To make online jewelry shopping stress-free, She Said Yes has introduced a Try At Home Ring Program, allowing customers to try a sample at a low cost. Once they confirm the fit, style, and look, the amount is deducted from the final purchaseremoving uncertainty and encouraging confident buying. This model supports first-time fine jewelry buyers, as well as couples shopping for engagement rings online, offering a trial that feels personal and pressure-free. As searches rise for terms like comfortable wedding rings, lightweight engagement rings, and second-skin jewelry, She Said Yes is leading the charge. With ergonomic designs, inclusive sizing, and user-driven innovation, the brand is helping redefine how women think about wearingand choosingfine jewelry. We design for real life, says a She Said Yes spokesperson. Our goal is to make jewelry feel natural, not like something you cant wait to take off. Whether worn during work, workouts, or big life changes, She Said Yes is proving that jewelry can be luxurious and livableevery single day. Explore comfort-first jewelry at: https://shesaidyes.design/91gxf https://jeulia.io/91hti https://jeulia.io/91htj https://jeulia.io/91htk About She Said Yes She Said Yes is a next-generation fine jewelry brand committed to sustainability, certification, and modern love. Offering direct-to-consumer pricing, customizable designs, and a rigorous quality assurance programincluding full GRA certificationShe Said Yes empowers customers to buy jewelry with confidence, meaning, and integrity. Press Contact: Amy Cunha Big Picture PR amy@bigpicpr.com (415) 350-3154 Website: https://jeulia.io/91gxg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shesaidyes_official/ AUSTIN, Texas, July 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Texas Hemp Business Council (THBC) today issued the following statement: "As SB 5 heads to the Senate floor during the special session of the 89th Texas Legislature, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and Senators Charles Perry and Roland Gutierrez are actively looking to gift-wrap the entire cannabis market to a few, select state-licensed marijuana companies, one of which already controls over 75% of the market. "Their claim that the restrictive Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP) can replace hemp-derived cannabinoids is misleading and dangerous. "TCUP currently serves just over 100,000 patients and requires registration, physician prescriptions, higher prices and fewer options. While HB 46 was an attempt to improve the program, it does little to expand real access to a restrictive and expensive TCUP program that serves an entirely different purpose than hemp. "Meanwhile, hemp is legal and regulated under federal and state law and serves millions of adult consumers and veterans who rely on affordable, accessible alternatives for wellness, pain relief and more. "SB 5 would destroy a $10 billion industry that supports over 53,000 jobs and eliminate economic opportunity for thousands of small business owners across the state. All being done under the false flag of safety, while the real goal is market control by a politically connected few. This isnt about protecting public health, its about protecting a monopoly. Governor Abbotts veto message was clear: regulate hemp responsibly, dont ban it. Texans deserve choice, not coercion. SB 5 is prohibition disguised as policy and lawmakers should reject it. Public opinion, economic data and common sense all point in the same direction: this is a manufactured crisis driven by special interests, not public demand. "At a time when Texas faces real and pressing challenges like strengthening flood warning systems, redistricting and providing meaningful property tax relief, some Senate leaders are spending this special session pushing a hemp ban Texans clearly dont want. Its a clear example of misplaced priorities and misguided policies. Thats why THBC and the vast majority of Texans strongly support a common-sense alternative that includes 21+ age limits, child-resistant packaging and setbacks from schools. Its the right path forward for public safety, economic freedom and the future of hemp in Texas. About the Texas Hemp Business Council The Texas Hemp Business Council is an industry organization dedicated to promoting the hemp-based cannabinoid industry in Texas, while advocating for consumer safety, education and stakeholder engagement. More information is available at http://www.texashempbusinesscouncil.com . Media Contacts: Natalie Mu/George Medici PondelWilkinson 310.279.5980 nmu@pondel.com gmedici@pondel.com BURNABY, British Columbia, July 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The United Steelworkers union (USW) District 3 and the USW Wood Council are calling on the federal government to take urgent action in response to the latest escalation in the softwood lumber trade dispute. Following the U.S. Department of Commerces decision to increase anti-dumping duties on Canadian softwood lumber exports to 20.56%, the USW is demanding immediate support for forestry workers and communities across the country. This latest increase, along with other threatened tariffs, is yet another blow to workers, communities and the long-term sustainability of our industry, said Scott Lunny, USW Western Canada Director. We represent thousands of loggers and mill workers across British Columbia and Western Canada and our members, and their families, are at risk governments need to act now. The combined total of anti-dumping and countervailing duties on Canadian lumber now exceeds 35%. This threat of further tariffs comes after President Donald Trump announced a potential Section 232 national security investigation. Its a constant attack on our industry and our workforce from the U.S. administration. Our prime minister stood up for the steel sector and says softwood lumber is a priority in trade talks, but what forest workers need now is action, not just words. They need to know Canada has their backs, said Lunny. In addition to calling for a deal on softwood lumber to be a priority for Canada in trade talks with the U.S., the USW is calling for a comprehensive support package for forest workers, including wage subsidies, loan guarantees for affected businesses and other targeted resources to support provinces, regional and local communities to sustain critical infrastructure and services through this unprecedented uncertainty. The USW warns that the increased tariffs and potential Section 232 tariff implementation, in addition to duties, will cost American consumers and Canadian jobs. These duties are unfair and will only drive up housing costs for U.S. consumers, while putting thousands of Canadian jobs at risk, said Jeff Bromley, USW Wood Council Chair. The American market needs Canadian lumber. The U.S. cannot meet its domestic demand, no matter what President Trump says. The union also pushed back against claims made by the U.S. Softwood Lumber Coalition. Canadian producers operate under different conditions. Our harvesting costs are higher, our wages and benefits are better and our lumber is top-quality. This isnt unfair trade. Its a better product from a better system, said Bromley. USW emphasized that securing a lasting resolution to the softwood lumber dispute must remain a top priority in Canada-U.S. trade negotiations and in the meantime, governments must step in to stabilize the sector. About the United Steelworkers The USW represents 225,000 members in nearly every economic sector across Canada and is the largest private-sector union in North America, with 850,000 members in Canada, the United States and the Caribbean. Each year, thousands of workers choose to join the USW because of the unions strong track record in creating healthier, safer and more respectful workplaces and negotiating better working conditions and fairer compensation including good wages, benefits and pensions. For more information: Scott Lunny, USW Western Canada Director, slunny@usw.ca, 604-329-5308 Jeff Bromley, USW Wood Council Chair, jbromley@usw.ca, 250-426-9870 Brett Barden, USW Communications, bbarden@usw.ca, 604-445-6956 NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- For the first time ever, iconic Swedish designer Gustaf Westman is handing over the keys to his famously playful and pastel-hued Stockholm home. Kindred , a global home swapping community revolutionizing the way people travel, has teamed up with Westman to open the doors to his home filled with colorful squiggles, soft shapes, chunky objects, and made-you-look mirrors inviting Kindred members to stay or swap homes with one of the internets most recognizable designers. Im really excited to open up my home to others on Kindred, says acclaimed designer and Kindred member Gustaf Westman. Theres something unique about letting people experience my designs in a personal space where there is no curation whatsoever, just my own creative chaos of whatever Im working on at that moment. Its a full expression of my world. Known for blending playfulness with precision, Westman is offering more than just a place to crash its a chance to live inside his creative universe. This initiative follows the debut of his European Pop Up Tour where he showcased his new collection not in galleries, but in real, lived-in Kindred homes - with next stops planned in Amsterdam on August 30-31, and Madrid on September 6-7. How It Works: Head to https://livekindred.com/community/gustaf-westman and sign up with the code GUS.TAF and sign up with the code GUS.TAF Complete your home and user profile (this increases the likelihood of a request being accepted) Gustafs home profile will automatically be saved to your favorites using the code above, so youll get a heads up when availability drops Existing Kindred members can save/favourite Gustafs home profile to be notified when availability drops "Theres something deeply personal about stepping into an artists home. Its not just about the objects, its about seeing the world the way they do, said Justine Palefsky, CEO and Co-Founder of Kindred. "Gustaf builds more than furniture, he builds feeling. Swapping homes with him isnt just a design moment, its an invitation to live inside someone elses creative mind. Thats what makes Kindred different: you dont just visit a place, you experience someone else's perspective. For more information, visit https://livekindred.com/community/gustaf-westman . ### Kindred , a global home swapping community, is revolutionizing the way people travel by introducing a new model built on trust, connection, and member-hosted homes an alternative to both hotels and short-term rentals. With over 150,000 global members across 150+ cities, Kindred offers both owners and rentals alike a radically more accessible, responsible, and authentic way to travel. Contact: press@livekindred.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bfbfbc95-063b-4c33-a301-d7109e465c04 July 29, 2025 Long-term multiyear agreements will see Philips installing its advanced Azurion image-guided therapy systems nationwide across all provinces, including rural and remote areas Initiative brings minimally invasive care to millions of cardiac, stroke and cancer patients in Indonesia Combines cutting-edge treatment technology, services and training to strengthen Indonesias health infrastructure Amsterdam, the Netherlands and Jakarta, Indonesia In a major step toward transforming healthcare delivery, Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in health technology and the Indonesias Ministry of Health today announced plans to deploy state-of-the-art image-guided therapy systems nationwide, as part of their signed agreements, under the Strengthening Indonesias Healthcare Referral Network (SIHREN) project. The landmark agreements, recently awarded to Philips after an international, competitive bidding process, combine cutting-edge treatment technology, services and training to strengthen Indonesias health infrastructure. The initiative aims to transform the countrys treatment for heart disease, stroke and cancer Indonesias leading causes of death by expanding access to cutting-edge technologies and care in all 38 provinces, from Aceh to Papua. This initiative is set to benefit millions of patients across Indonesia. The SIHREN project is an ambitious effort jointly funded by the World Bank and other multilateral development banks to support Indonesias health transformation agenda by significantly improving referral healthcare. Challenges in ensuring equitable access to healthcare With a population exceeding 280 million, Indonesia is the worlds fourth most populous nation. As a vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands, it faces significant challenges in ensuring equitable access to healthcare. The country is also grappling with a surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, stroke and cancer conditions projected to impose a staggering economic burden of USD 4.47 trillion [1]. And yet, advanced care for these illnesses remains largely centralized on the densely populated island of Java, leaving much of the country underserved. The initiative will establish a nationwide network of advanced image-guided therapy rooms, dramatically expanding access to minimally invasive treatments across hundreds of hospitals in all 38 provinces. The Ministry of Health has made a long-term commitment to delivering nationwide coverage of the Azurion platform, aligned to local hospital infrastructure and patient population needs. A study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Surgery [2] found that minimally invasive techniques significantly reduce postoperative pain, recovery time, and hospital stays compared to traditional open surgeries. "Delivering better care for more people requires strong partnerships and the best innovations, said Roy Jakobs, CEO of Royal Philips. Were honored to be Indonesias partner of choice to deliver our innovation directly where it's needed most. More patients in Indonesia will now have access to better care. Minimally invasive care is life-changing for patients, unlocking treatment options that were once unimaginable. With small incisions, such targeted treatments can mean shorter hospital stays, fewer complications and quicker recoveries for patients, said Carla Goulart Peron, Chief Medical Officer at Philips. From opening heart-attack-causing blockages, to treating strokes and targeting cancer tumors, image-guided, minimally invasive therapy will be a game-changer for NCD care in Indonesia. Philips maintains a strong footprint in Indonesia, employing over 3,900 people across 12 cities and operating a manufacturing facility in Batam for its Personal Health businesses. The Philips Foundation recently launched a major partnership with World Child Cancer to advance early detection of childhood cancers across the country. We remain committed to supporting healthcare transformation by delivering innovations that provide better outcome for patient and improve experience for healthcare workers, said Astri R. Dharmawan, President Director of Philips Indonesia. Our combined efforts with the Indonesian government will help close healthcare gaps and bring us closer to a Healthy Indonesia. [1] https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_The_Economics_of_non_Disease_Indonesia_2015.pdf [2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14746519/ For further information, please contact: Michael Fuchs Global External Relations Director, Philips Tel.: +31 614 869 261 E-mail: michael.fuchs@philips.com Jane Yeo Head of Brand and Communications APAC, Philips Tel.: +65 9618 7397 E-mail: jane.yeo@philips.com About Royal Philips Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a leading health technology company focused on improving peoples health and well-being through meaningful innovation. Philips patient- and people-centric innovation leverages advanced technology and deep clinical and consumer insights to deliver personal health solutions for consumers and professional health solutions for healthcare providers and their patients in the hospital and the home. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is a leader in diagnostic imaging, ultrasound, image-guided therapy, monitoring and enterprise informatics, as well as in personal health. Philips generated 2024 sales of EUR 18 billion and employs approximately 67,300 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. News about Philips can be found at www.philips.com/newscenter. Attachments JCDecaux wins the exclusive advertising concession for Brussels Airport Paris, July 29th, 2025 JCDecaux SE (Euronext Paris: DEC), the number one outdoor advertising company worldwide, announces that its subsidiary JCDecaux Belgium has been awarded the exclusive advertising concession for Brussels Airport, following a competitive tender. The airport is located close to the Belgian capital, which is home to several key European Union institutions including the European Parliament, the European Commission and the Council of the European Union. Brussels Airport Company (BAC) has chosen to entrust JCDecaux once again to be responsible as of January 1st, 2026, for installing, managing and marketing the advertising displays inside, outside and around Brussels Airport. With 23.6 million passengers in 2024, Brussels Airport is one of the most important airports in Europe. As a partner of Brussels Airport for 18 years, JCDecaux, in line with its strategy of high-quality products and technological innovation, will provide Brussels Airport with its expertise to enrich the passenger experience and advertisers' visibility, while meeting the requirements of sustainability and quality of service. JCDecaux will renew all its furniture and digital spaces and develop a wide range of creative solutions such as activation podiums and immersive event devices that create engagement between brands and passengers. In line with both companies ESG commitments, sustainability and safety will be a strong focus of the contract, with clear objectives for green energy, recyclable materials and waste management. JCDecaux is the media partner of 157 key airports in 39 countries around the world. As the number one outdoor advertising and street furniture company in Belgium, it is strategically positioned in this key market in the heart of Europe, with street furniture concessions in Antwerp, Charleroi, Bruges, Hasselt, Liege, Mons, Namur and Brussels, where JCDecaux also operates the Villo! self-service bike rental contract. The new digital screens planned as part of this new contract at Brussels Airport will be integrated into JCDecaux Belgium's programmatic offer, in addition to the 1,400 JCDecaux digital furniture units already present nationwide in shopping centres, Carrefour and Delhaize stores, in cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, Liege and Charleroi as well as in the Brussels metro. Sylvie Van den Eynde, Chief Passenger Aviation Officer of Brussels Airport Company, said: "Advertising at Brussels Airport goes beyond mere visibility, it fully contributes to the passenger experience. Thanks to the renewal of our collaboration with JCDecaux, with whom we have had an excellent collaboration for many years, we can make this experience even more impactful and innovative. Our advertising campaigns are regularly part of major cultural and sporting moments for our country, thus helping to affirm the Belgian identity and authenticity at the airport, located in the heart of Europe. From dynamic content on our digital screens to campaigns that greet travelers in their native language, every initiative aims to create a warm and memorable experience. Jean-Charles Decaux, Co-CEO of JCDecaux, said: "We are very pleased to renew our successful partnership with Brussels Airport Company. Through 18 years of close collaboration and a focus on advertisers' demands, our new offering aims to better meet their current and emerging needs in a rapidly changing market. This new contract is a true recognition of JCDecaux's expertise in offering innovative and high-quality advertising solutions, and will allow us to continue the strategic deployment of iconic displays and a premium and sustainable digital offer within this major European hub. As the headquarters of Europe and major institutions, Brussels attracts many delegations which transit through its airport and foster the interest of specific international advertisers. We would like to thank Brussels Airport Company for their continuing trust and will continue to work to offer products and services that can transform the airports environment and enhance the passenger experience whilst ensuring optimal visibility for advertisers and their brands. Key Figures for JCDecaux 2024 revenue: 3,935.3m N1 Out-of-Home Media company worldwide A daily audience of 850 million people in more than 80 countries 1,091,811 advertising panels worldwide Present in 3,894 cities with more than 10,000 inhabitants 12,026 employees JCDecaux is listed on the Eurolist of Euronext Paris and is part of the SBF 120 and CAC Mid 60 indexes JCDecauxs Group carbon reduction trajectory has been approved by the SBTi and the company has joined the Euronext Paris CAC SBT 1.5 index JCDecaux is recognised for its extra-financial performance in the CDP (A), MSCI (AAA), Sustainalytics (13.1), and has achieved Gold Medal status from EcoVadis 1 st Out-of-Home Media company to join the RE100 Out-of-Home Media company to join the RE100 Leader in self-service bike rental scheme: pioneer in eco-friendly mobility N1 worldwide in street furniture (629,737 advertising panels) N1 worldwide in transport advertising with 157 airports and 257 contracts in metros, buses, trains and tramways (340,848 advertising panels) N1 in Europe for billboards (83,472 advertising panels worldwide) N1 in outdoor advertising in Europe (736,310 advertising panels) N1 in outdoor advertising in Asia-Pacific (178,010 advertising panels) N1 in outdoor advertising in Latin America (89,526 advertising panels) N1 in outdoor advertising in Africa (22,490 advertising panels) N2 in outdoor advertising in the Middle East (20,689 advertising panels) For more information about JCDecaux, please visit jcdecaux.com . Join us on X , LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram and YouTube. Communications Department: Albert Asseraf +33 (0) 1 30 79 79 10 albert.asseraf@jcdecaux.com Investor Relations: Remi Grisard +33 (0) 1 30 79 79 93 remi.grisard@jcdecaux.com Attachment Press release Paris, 29 July 2025 Financial results at 30 June 2025 Solid first-half results Robust retail commercial performance in France, Europe and Africa & Middle East 3.8% growth in EBITDAaL and 7.7% in Organic Cash Flow from telecom activities 1 EBITDAaL growth acceleration in France at + 0.9% with a one-point improvement in EBITDAaL margin Full-year 2025 guidance upgraded to EBITDAaL growth above 3% In millions of euros 2Q 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis 6M 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis Revenues 9,942 0.1 % (0.5)% 19,853 0.3 % 0.1 % EBITDAaL 3,195 4.2 % 2.9 % 5,675 3.8 % 3.0 % Consolidated net income excluding GEPP 1,167 6.9 % Consolidated net income (105) na Net income attributable to owners of the parent company (398) na eCAPEX (excluding licenses)1 1,560 1.8 % 1.5 % 3,023 4.1 % 3.5 % EBITDAaL - eCAPEX1 1,636 6.7 % 4.3 % 2,653 3.5 % 2.4 % Organic cash flow (telecom activities)1 1,670 7.7 % Free cash flow all-in (telecom activities)1 1,086 (13.5)% Commenting on these results, Christel Heydemann, Chief Executive Officer of the Orange group, said: Orange delivered a solid first half, allowing us to raise our EBITDAaL growth target for 2025. Over this period, we achieved an EBITDAaL growth of 3.8%, with a notable acceleration of 0.9% in France, and increased organic cash flow by 7.7%. This performance is the result of our Lead the Future strategy and reflects our efforts to improve our operational efficiency. Our commercial performance was excellent in France, Europe and Africa & Middle East. In France, our mobile networks were ranked number one for the 14th time in a row. I would also like to highlight our performance in Africa & Middle East, with a double-digit increase in EBITDAaL for the tenth consecutive half. This remarkable performance was driven by access to our 4G and 5G networks, now used by more than half of our 167 million customers, as well as by the development of Orange Money and B2B growth. In Orange Business, we have launched a new division dedicated to defense and security to seize opportunities in the area of sovereignty. This will enable us to capitalize on Oranges power of innovation, cybersecurity expertise and network quality. I would sincerely like to thank all Orange teams for their commitment and performance during this first half. Orange group revenues rose slightly in the first half2 (+0.3% or 67 million euros) thanks to growth in retail services (+2.1% or +312 million euros) and a smaller decline in wholesale services (-4.4% or -129 million euros). Equipment sales were in line with market trends (-5.8% or -75 million euros). In terms of commercial performance , the Group maintained its leadership position in convergence in France and in Europe, with a total of 9.2 million convergent customers (+1.5%), as well as its commercial momentum in mobile contracts and very high-speed fixed broadband accesses. Mobile services had 261.6 million accesses worldwide (+6.4%) including 98.1 million contracts (+7.8%). Fixed services had 38.0 million accesses worldwide (-2.2%), with 22.4 million fixed broadband accesses (+4.4%), of which 15.5 million were very high-speed broadband accesses, an area of continued strong growth (+13.3%). , the Group maintained its leadership position in convergence in France and in Europe, with a total of 9.2 million convergent customers (+1.5%), as well as its commercial momentum in mobile contracts and very high-speed fixed broadband accesses. Mobile services had 261.6 million accesses worldwide (+6.4%) including 98.1 million contracts (+7.8%). Fixed services had 38.0 million accesses worldwide (-2.2%), with 22.4 million fixed broadband accesses (+4.4%), of which 15.5 million were very high-speed broadband accesses, an area of continued strong growth (+13.3%). Africa & Middle East was the main contributor to growth, with revenues rising strongly (+12.8% or +469 million euros). was the main contributor to growth, with revenues rising strongly (+12.8% or +469 million euros). Revenues in France decreased (-2.2% or -193 million euros) but retail services were stable (-0.2% or -10 million euros), with growth of 0.9% excluding PSTN 3 , while wholesale services declined as expected (-6.8% or -148 million). decreased (-2.2% or -193 million euros) but retail services were stable (-0.2% or -10 million euros), with growth of 0.9% excluding PSTN , while wholesale services declined as expected (-6.8% or -148 million). European revenues were stable. Retail services (excluding IT&IS) grew 1.2% (+27 million euros). IT and Integration Services grew 7.7% (+18 million euros), while low-margin revenues were down. revenues were stable. Retail services (excluding IT&IS) grew 1.2% (+27 million euros). IT and Integration Services grew 7.7% (+18 million euros), while low-margin revenues were down. The decrease in Orange Business revenues (-5.4% or -213 million euros) was mainly due to the decline in revenues from Fixed-only (-7.6% or -115 million euros) and mobile (-8.0% or -39 million euros). Good momentum continued in Orange Cyberdefense with revenues up 6.9% (+39 million euros). Group EBITDAaL rose 4.2% in the second quarter. In the first half of 2025, it reached 5,675 million euros (+3.8% or +207 million euros). This growth was driven by the remarkable performance of Africa & Middle East (+12.8%), accelerated growth in France (+0.9%) and a solid performance in Europe (+2.2%). Orange Business continued to improve (-5.2%). EBITDAaL from telecom activities grew to 5,709 million euros (+2.9%). The Group posted consolidated net income of 1,167 million euros for the first half of 2025, excluding a net provision of 1,272 million euros, recorded in the first semester related to the agreement on Employment and Career Path Planning for France (Gestion des Emplois et des Parcours Professionnels GEPP) signed in February 2025 and mainly related to the 20252028 French part time for seniors plan. The consolidated net income, including GEPP, amounts to -105 million euros. Net income attributable to owners of the parent company was -398 million euros. Earnings per share Group (EPS) excluding the impact of the GEPP provision net of tax amounted to 0.29 euros. eCAPEX1 was 3,023 million euros in the first half of 2025, up 4.1%, in particular to support growth in Africa & Middle East. eCAPEX for telecom activities as a percentage of revenues was 15.2%, in line with the target for the year. The number of households connectable to FTTH1 reached 62.9 million (+9.3%) and the FTTH1 customer base increased to 14.4 million (+14.2%). Organic cash flow from telecom activities1 reached 1,670 million euros at 30 June 2025, in line with the target of at least 3.6 billion euros by the end of 2025. The significant improvement in cash flow generation of 7.7% year on year (+119 million euros) is mainly due to the improvement in operating cash flow, driven by EBITDAaL-eCAPEX indicator growth and change in working capital. Free cash flow all-in from telecom activities1 was 1,086 million euros, down 13.5% year on year due to license payment phasing. Net financial debt amounted to 23,294 million euros, an increase of 812 million euros compared to 31 December 2024, following in particular the purchase of subordinated notes. The ratio of net financial debt to EBITDAaL from telecom activities of 1.88x at 30 June 2025 is in line with the target of approximately 2x over the medium term. The liquidity position of telecom activities of 16,160 million euros is solid and the average cost of gross debt is 3.06%. Financial objectives The Group is raising its full-year targets4: EBITDAaL growth of over 3% Discipline on eCAPEX in line with the Capital Market Day Organic cash flow from telecom activities of at least 3.6 billion euros Net debt/EBITDAaL ratio from telecom activities unchanged at around 2x in the medium term Orange has set in respect of the 2025 fiscal year a dividend floor of 0.75 euros per share5. Orange will make an interim dividend cash payment for 2025 of 0.30 euros on 4 December 2025. Oranges sustainability commitments During the first half of 2025, Orange continued its initiatives to create sustainable value. In May, Orange issued a sustainable bond of 750 million euros with a 10-year maturity. To reduce its environmental impact: Orange exceeded its 2025 target of reducing its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 30% compared to 2015, reducing them by 41%. Oranges Partners to net zero carbon program, which aims to accelerate the environmental transition by co-creating significant actions with suppliers to reduce GHG emissions, saw the signing of its first progress plan with Camusat, Oranges long-standing telecom infrastructure provider in Africa, the Middle East and Europe. To foster digital inclusion: The number of beneficiaries who have received free digital training since 2021 has reached 2.9 million, in line with the target. To strengthen digital trust: Orange Business created a division dedicated to defense and security, launched a service designed to protect its customers from quantum cyber attacks and received the SecNumCloud qualification for its Cloud Avenue SecNum platform. ___________________________________________________________________________ The Board of Directors of Orange SA met on 28 July 2025 and reviewed the interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and management report at 30 June 2025. In accordance with auditing standards, the Groups statutory auditors performed a limited review of the interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and verified the information presented in the interim management report. More detailed information on the Groups financial results and performance indicators is available on the Orange website: www.orange.com/en/finance/investors/consolidated-results. Review by operating segment France In millions of euros 2Q 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis 6M 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis Revenues 4,272 (3.1)% (2.8)% 8,569 (2.2)% (1.9)% Retail services (B2C+B2B) 2,803 (0.8)% (0.7)% 5,608 (0.2)% (0.2)% Convergence 1,336 1.7 % 1.7 % 2,668 2.6 % 2.6 % Mobile-only 576 (2.6)% (2.6)% 1,146 (2.6)% (2.6)% Fixed-only 891 (3.2)% (3.1)% 1,795 (2.6)% (2.6)% Wholesale 1,002 (9.3)% (8.2)% 2,024 (6.8)% (5.7)% Equipment sales 282 (4.8)% (4.8)% 600 (3.3)% (3.3)% Other revenues 185 0.2 % 0.1 % 337 (3.9)% (3.9)% EBITDAaL 2,883 0.9 % 0.4 % EBITDAaL / Revenues 33.6 % 1.0 pt 0.8 pt eCAPEX 1,418 (2.1)% (1.9)% eCAPEX / Revenues 16.5 % 0.0 pt 0.0 pt Strong commercial performance and accelerated EBITDAaL growth Revenues in France amounted to 8,569 million euros in the first half and 4,272 million euros in the second quarter, with retail services excluding PSTN up 0.4% (+10 million euros). Orange performed well in the second quarter, with mobile sales of+116,000, fixed broadband sales of+29,000 and convergent sales of+15,000. Convergent ARPO reached 77.9 euros, up 1.4 euros year on year. Customer satisfaction continued to improve, with the Net Promoter Score above 33 in the second quarter and a mobile churn rate of 11.4%. The growth of retail services excluding PSTN did not offset declines in wholesale services (-9.3% or -102 million euros) and equipment sales. As a result, Frances total revenues fell by 3.1% (-138 million euros). In the first half of the year, EBITDAaL for France amounted to 2,883 million euros, up 0.9%, demonstrating the Groups ability to optimize costs. The EBITDAaL margin improved by one- percentage point year on year. This half-year performance confirms the Groups ambition to achieve slightly better EBITDAaL growth in 2025, above that of 2024. The disciplined investment policy translated to a decrease in eCAPEX of -2.1% and a stable eCAPEX to Revenues ratio of 16.5% in the first half. At 30 June 2025, 41.4 million households were connectable to Orange fiber, representing 93% of French households. Orange confirmed its leadership in network quality, ranking first in terms of mobile network quality in metropolitan France for the 14th time in a row6. Africa & Middle East In millions of euros 2Q 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis 6M 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis Revenues 2,093 12.8 % 10.6 % 4,140 12.8 % 10.6 % Retail services (B2C+B2B) 1,911 13.6 % 11.8 % 3,770 13.5 % 11.8 % Mobile-only 1,618 13.2 % 11.0 % 3,187 12.9 % 11.0 % Fixed-only 262 14.1 % 12.6 % 526 14.4 % 13.3 % IT & Integration services 32 38.6 % 59.3 % 58 48.5 % 58.1 % Wholesale 149 2.7 % (0.3)% 301 4.2 % (0.6)% Equipment sales 21 16.2 % (5.2)% 47 12.9 % 1.4 % Other revenues 11 11.5 % 5.6 % 22 18.9 % 10.1 % EBITDAaL 1,573 12.8 % 10.4 % EBITDAaL / Revenues 38.0 % 0.0 pt (0.1 pt) eCAPEX 774 14.8 % 11.8 % eCAPEX / Revenues 18.7 % 0.3 pt 0.2 pt Double-digit growth in revenues and EBITDAaL Africa & Middle East recorded double-digit growth in revenues, rising 12.8% in the second quarter of 2025 (+238 million euros). The segment also posted remarkable revenue growth of +10.6% on a historical basis in the second quarter. As in previous quarters, this performance was underpinned by growth in retail services (+13.6%) thanks to increases over the year from the four growth engines, namely mobile data (+19.8%), fixed broadband (+19.7%), Orange Money (+19.3%) and B2B across all activities (+11.7%), with favorable volume and value effects. The mobile customer base reached 166.7 million, a year-on-year increase of 6.9%, with double-digit growth in the 4G customer base (+20.2% year on year) and a 6.2% increase in average mobile ARPO in the second quarter. The fixed broadband customer base rose 23.1% to 4.4 million. Lastly, Orange Money had 42.8 million active customers, up 20.0%. In the first half, EBITDAaL was up 12.8% (+179 million euros) on a comparable basis and 10.4% (+148 million euros) on a historical basis. This marks the tenth consecutive semester of double-digit growth. This remarkable performance paved the way for increasing the EBITDAaL growth target for the Africa & Middle East segment to double-digit growth in 2025. eCAPEX rose 14.8% in the first half, supporting the strong growth. Europe In millions of euros 2Q 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis 6M 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis Revenues 1,749 0.2 % 0.5 % 3,495 0.0 % 0.8 % Retail services (B2C+B2B) 1,288 1.0 % 1.3 % 2,568 1.8 % 2.6 % Convergence 374 5.3 % 6.0 % 745 5.3 % 6.5 % Mobile-only 543 (0.7)% (0.5)% 1,086 (0.2)% 0.4 % Fixed-only 245 (0.6)% (0.9)% 490 (1.5)% (1.3)% IT & Integration services 125 (0.1)% 0.7 % 247 7.7 % 9.3 % Wholesale 210 (0.0)% 0.2 % 398 (3.2)% (2.5)% Equipment sales 224 (3.5)% 0.1 % 471 (5.6)% (2.2)% Other revenues 27 (4.9)% (25.4)% 59 (5.3)% (21.2)% EBITDAaL 986 2.2 % 3.2 % EBITDAaL / Revenues 28.2 % 0.6 pt 0.7 pt eCAPEX 522 2.6 % (22.3)% o/w excluding Spain 522 2.6 % 3.2 % eCAPEX / Revenues excluding Spain 14.9 % 0.4 pt 0.3 pt Revenue stabilization and solid EBITDAaL growth Revenues for Europe in the second quarter of 2025 were stable at 1,749 million euros (+0.2% or +4 million euros). The rise in retail services (+1.0% or +13 million euros) stemmed from a strong commercial performance. Net additions amounted to +132,000 for mobile and +15,000 for fixed broadband (of which +55,000 for fiber). Convergent services (+5.3% or +19 million euros) were driven by net additions (up 26,000) and increased convergent ARPO, particularly in Poland (+4.5%). IT and Integration Services and wholesale services were stable. Low-margin equipment sales were down (-3.5% or -8 million euros). Poland increased 1.1% revenues in the second quarter of 2025 (+8 million euros). EBITDAaL increased 2.2% (+22 million euros), lead by strong growth in Belgium & Luxembourg (+4.7%) and Poland (+3.4%). These good results are also consistent with the ambition to achieve low-single digit EBITDAaL growth in Europe in 2025. Orange Business In millions of euros 2Q 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis 6M 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis Revenues 1,840 (5.9)% (7.0)% 3,691 (5.4)% (5.8)% Fixed-only 686 (7.9)% (8.6)% 1,388 (7.6)% (7.6)% Voice 168 (13.7)% (14.0)% 344 (13.1)% (13.1)% Data 517 (5.8)% (6.7)% 1,044 (5.7)% (5.7)% IT & Integration services 930 (3.6)% (4.9)% 1,850 (3.1)% (3.3)% Mobile 225 (9.1)% (10.8)% 454 (8.0)% (9.7)% Mobile-only 173 (2.1)% (2.1)% 347 (1.3)% (1.3)% Wholesale 4 (19.0)% (57.5)% 9 (19.0)% (57.5)% Equipment sales 48 (27.1)% (27.1)% 98 (25.1)% (25.1)% EBITDAaL 258 (5.2)% (7.0)% EBITDAaL / Revenues 7.0 % 0.0 pt (0.1 pt) eCAPEX 159 13.8 % 14.9 % eCAPEX / Revenues 4.3 % 0.7 pt 0.8 pt EBITDAaL improvement target confirmed Revenues for the second quarter of 2025 in the Orange Business segment were 1,840 million euros, down 5.9% (-116 million euros) due to the anticipated decline in Fixed-only services (-7.9% or -59 million euros) and the decrease in mobile revenues (-9.1% or -22 million euros). Orange Cyberdefense continued to achieve strong growth (+5.8% or +16 million euros) while the competitive IT market and the reduction in the portfolio of products and services offered undertaken last year affected IT and Integration Services (-3.6% or -35 million euros). This quarter, to strengthen its commitment in the sovereignty space, Orange Business created a new division dedicated to defense and security to meet the needs of ministries, operators and industrial players in these sectors. Orange Business also launched a service designed to protect its customers from quantum cyberattacks and announced the SecNumCloud qualification for its Cloud Avenue SecNum platform, as well as the acquisition of ensec in Switzerland to enrich Orange Cyberdefense activities. Orange Business is actively working to optimize its cost base and transform its IT products and services. In April 2025, Orange Business and Shiftmove announced that they had signed an exclusivity agreement for Shiftmoves acquisition of Orange Businesss Ocean (fleet management) business. Orange Business is thus pursuing its strategy of refocusing its business portfolio and optimizing investments on its strategic priorities. The improvement in the EBITDAaL trend in the first half (-5.2%) was in line with the objective. Orange Business maintains this ambition of continued improvement in the trend in 2025, by halving the decline in EBITDAaL compared with 2024, to achieve stabilization in 2026. TOTEM In millions of euros 2Q 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis 6M 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis Revenues 184 5.5 % 5.5 % 363 4.0 % 4.0 % Wholesale 184 5.5 % 5.5 % 363 4.0 % 4.0 % Other revenues - - - - - - EBITDAaL 182 (1.4)% (1.4)% EBITDAaL / Revenues 50.3 % (2.7 pt) (2.7 pt) eCAPEX 71 11.4 % 11.4 % eCAPEX / Revenues 19.6 % 1.3 pt 1.3 pt Second-quarter revenues for the TowerCo TOTEM were 184 million euros, up 5.5% (+10 million euros). The number of sites was 26,794 at 30 June 2025, with a tenancy ratio of 1.44 co-tenants per site, up 3 points year on year and in line with the target of 1.5 co-tenants per site by 2026. In the first half, EBITDAaL decreased slightly by 1.4% (-3 million euros) due to less non-recurring planning and construction activity. Recurring EBITDAaL from hosting was up 1.2% over the period. International Carriers & Shared Services In millions of euros 2Q 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis 6M 2025 change comparable basis change historical basis Revenues 311 (5.0)% (5.1)% 595 (9.6)% (10.0)% Wholesale 208 (6.8)% (7.0)% 392 (8.3)% (8.4)% Other revenues 103 (1.1)% (0.8)% 204 (11.9)% (13.0)% EBITDAaL (174) (42.9)% (22.7)% EBITDAaL / Revenues (29.3)% (10.7 pt) (7.8 pt) eCAPEX 77 10.3 % 3.8 % eCAPEX / Revenues 13.0 % 2.3 pt 1.7 pt Revenues from International Carriers and Shared Services fell by 5.0% in the second quarter (-16 million euros), mainly as a result of the downward trend in voice and SMS traffic. Over the first half, EBITDAaL fell by 52 million euros, due to various exceptional items. Mobile Financial Services The plan to cease Orange Banks activities in Europe is proceeding as expected. Following the disposal of its loan portfolios in France and Spain in 2024, Orange Bank sold most of its investment portfolios (not yet matured) during the first half of 2025 for a total of 171 million euros. Furthermore, in May 2025, Orange announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding for the acquisition by Credit Cooperatif of Orange Banks subsidiary Anytime, a digital platform for account management and payment services aimed at professionals and associations. MASORANGE7 In Spain, second quarter revenues rose 6.8%, driven by growth in retail services of 2.4%, growth in wholesale services of 8.6% and equipment sales of 35.4%. The joint venture achieved a very good commercial performance with +30,000 additional fiber lines and +23,0008 additional mobile lines. EBITDAaL had double-digit growth (+12.9%). This half, MASORANGE confirmed its ambition to achieve synergies of at least 500 million euros over the first four years. In 2025, MASORANGE is targeting synergies of more than 300 million euros, representing more than half of the expected synergies, slight revenue growth and double-digit growth in adjusted EBITDA minus net recurring CAPEX. The transaction to create the FiberCo, provided for in the binding agreement signed on 2 January 2025 between MASORANGE and Vodafone Espana is expected to be completed at the end of the summer of 2025. Calendar of upcoming events 23 October 2025 - Publication of Third-Quarter 2025 Financial Results Contacts press: Tom Wright tom.wright@orange.com Flaminia Le Maignan flaminia.lemaignan@orange.com financial communication: (analysts and investors) Constance Gest constance.gest@orange.com Louise Racine louise.racine@orange.com Hong Hai Vuong honghai.vuong@orange.com Clarisse Quellec clarisse.quellec@orange.com Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements about Oranges financial situation, results of operations and strategy. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. These statements include, without limitation, projections and estimates and their underlying assumptions, statements regarding plans, objectives, intentions and expectations with respect to future financial results and other events, prospects and statements regarding future performance. Although we believe these statements are based on reasonable assumptions, they are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including matters not yet known to us or not currently considered material by us, and which could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, such forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that anticipated events will occur or that the objectives set out will actually be achieved. More detailed information on the potential risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could affect our financial results include those described or identified in any public documents filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (AMF) by Orange, including the Universal Registration Document filed on 27 March 2025 with the AMF. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, you should not place undue reliance on any forward looking statements contained herein. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Other than as required by law, Orange does not undertake any obligation to update them in light of new information, future developments or any other reason. Appendix 1: financial key indicators Quarterly data In millions of euros 2Q 2025 2Q 2024 comparable basis 2Q 2024 historical basis variation comparable basis change historical basis Revenues 9,942 9,937 9,989 0.1 % (0.5)% France 4,272 4,409 4,396 (3.1)% (2.8)% Europe 1,749 1,746 1,741 0.2 % 0.5 % Africa & Middle-East 2,093 1,856 1,893 12.8 % 10.6 % Orange Business 1,840 1,957 1,980 (5.9)% (7.0)% Totem 184 175 175 5.5 % 5.5 % International Carriers & Shared Services 311 327 327 (5.0)% (5.1)% Intra-Group eliminations (508) (533) (524) EBITDAaL (1) 3,195 3,066 3,106 4.2 % 2.9 % o/w Telecom activities 3,212 3,114 3,133 3.2 % 2.5 % As % of revenues 32.3 % 31.3 % 31.4 % 1.0 pt 0.9 pt o/w Mobile Financial Services (16) (49) (28) (67.0)% (42.7)% eCAPEX 1,560 1,533 1,537 1.8 % 1.5 % o/w Telecom activities 1,559 1,533 1,537 1.7 % 1.4 % As % of revenues 15.7 % 15.4 % 15.4 % 0.3 pt 0.3 pt o/w Mobile Financial Services 1 (1) (1) na na EBITDAaL - eCAPEX 1,636 1,533 1,569 6.7 % 4.3 % (1) EBITDAaL presentation adjustments are described in Appendix 2. 30 June data In millions of euros 6M 2025 6M 2024 comparable basis 6M 2024 historical basis variation comparable basis change historical basis Revenues 19,853 19,786 19,839 0.3 % 0.1 % France 8,569 8,762 8,736 (2.2)% (1.9)% Europe 3,495 3,495 3,468 0.0 % 0.8 % Africa & Middle-East 4,140 3,671 3,742 12.8 % 10.6 % Orange Business 3,691 3,904 3,919 (5.4)% (5.8)% Totem 363 349 349 4.0 % 4.0 % International Carriers & Shared Services 595 659 662 (9.6)% (10.0)% Intra-Group eliminations (1,000) (1,053) (1,036) EBITDAaL (1) 5,675 5,468 5,511 3.8 % 3.0 % o/w Telecom activities 5,709 5,550 5,573 2.9 % 2.4 % As % of revenues 28.8 % 28.0 % 28.1 % 0.7 pt 0.7 pt France 2,883 2,856 2,872 0.9 % 0.4 % Europe 986 965 956 2.2 % 3.2 % Africa & Middle-East 1,573 1,394 1,425 12.8 % 10.4 % Orange Business 258 272 277 (5.2)% (7.0)% Totem 182 185 185 (1.4)% (1.4)% International Carriers & Shared Services (174) (122) (142) (42.9)% (22.7)% o/w Mobile Financial Services (33) (83) (62) 60.6 % 47.6 % Operating Income 685 2,119 2,032 (67.7)% (66.3)% o/w Telecom activities 732 2,273 2,172 (67.8)% (66.3)% o/w Mobile Financial Services (47) (155) (140) 69.5 % 66.4 % Consolidated net income (105) 1,092 na Net income attributable to owners of the parent company (398) 824 na eCAPEX 3,023 2,905 3,087 4.1 % (2.1)% o/w excluding Spain 3,023 2,905 2,921 4.1 % 3.5 % o/w Telecom activities 3,021 2,905 2,921 4.0 % 3.4 % As % of revenues 15.2 % 14.7 % 14.7 % 0.5 pt 0.5 pt o/w Mobile Financial Services 1 0 0 ns ns o/w Spain - - 166 - na EBITDAaL - eCAPEX excluding Spain 2,653 2,563 2,590 3.5 % 2.4 % (1) EBITDAaL presentation adjustments are described in Appendix 2. In millions of euros June 30 2025 June 30 2024 Organic cash-flow from telecom activities (excluding Spain) 1,670 1,551 Free cash flow all-in from telecom activities (excluding Spain) 1,086 1,255 In millions of euros June 30 2025 December 31 2024 Net financial debt (1) 23,294 22,482 Ratio of net financial debt / EBITDAaL from telecom activities (2) 1.88 1.84 (1) Net financial debt as defined and used by Orange does not include Mobile Financial Services activities, for which this concept is not relevant. (2) The ratio of net financial debt to EBITDAaL from telecom activities is calculated based on the ratio of the Groups net financial debt to EBITDAaL from telecom activities over the previous 12 months. Appendix 2: adjusted data to income statement items Quarterly data 2Q 2025 2Q 2024 historical basis In millions of euros Adjusted data Presentation adjustments Income statement Adjusted data Presentation adjustments Income statement Revenues 9,942 - 9,942 9,989 - 9,989 External purchases (3,974) 2 (3,971) (4,054) (2) (4,056) Other operating income 229 - 229 211 26 237 Other operating expense (92) (14) (106) (130) (4) (133) Labor expenses (2,157) (30) (2,187) (2,162) (0) (2,162) Operating taxes and levies (301) (1) (302) (289) (1) (290) Gains (losses) on disposal of fixed assets, investments and activities na 42 42 na 12 12 Restructuring costs na (54) (54) na (64) (64) Depreciation and amortization of financed assets (29) - (29) (40) - (40) Depreciation and amortization of right-of-use assets (358) 2 (356) (352) 2 (350) Impairment of right-of-use assets - (37) (37) (0) (34) (34) Interest expenses on liabilities related to financed assets (3) 3 na (4) 4 na Interest expenses on lease liabilities (60) 60 na (64) 64 na EBITDAaL 3,195 (27) na 3,106 3 na Significant litigation (12) 12 na 24 (24) na Specific labour expenses (38) 38 na 0 (0) na Fixed assets, investments and business portfolio review 42 (42) na 12 (12) na Restructuring program costs (79) 79 na (95) 95 na Acquisition and integration costs (4) 4 na (6) 6 na Interest expenses on liabilities related to financed assets na (3) (3) na (4) (4) Interest expenses on lease liabilities na (60) (60) na (64) (64) 30 June data 6M 2025 6M 2024 historical basis In millions of euros Adjusted data Presentation adjustments Income statement Adjusted data Presentation adjustments Income statement Revenues 19,853 - 19,853 19,839 - 19,839 External purchases (7,980) 1 (7,978) (8,110) (2) (8,112) Other operating income 411 - 411 440 26 466 Other operating expense (187) (16) (203) (247) (8) (255) Labor expenses (4,314) (1,612) (5,926) (4,346) (8) (4,354) Operating taxes and levies (1,206) (1) (1,207) (1,164) (2) (1,166) Gains (losses) on disposal of fixed assets, investments and activities na 41 41 na (140) (140) Restructuring costs na (163) (163) na (108) (108) Depreciation and amortization of financed assets (58) - (58) (77) - (77) Depreciation and amortization of right-of-use assets (715) 2 (713) (690) 0 (689) Impairment of right-of-use assets - (37) (37) (1) (34) (34) Interests expenses on liabilities related to financed assets (6) 6 na (8) 8 na Interests expenses on lease liabilities (123) 123 na (125) 125 na EBITDAaL 5,675 (1,655) na 5,511 (143) na Significant litigation (12) 12 na 23 (23) na Specific labour expenses (1,620) 1,620 na (7) 7 na Fixed assets, investments and business portfolio review 41 (41) na (140) 140 na Restructuring program costs (188) 188 na (143) 143 na Acquisition and integration costs (6) 6 na (10) 10 na Interests expenses on liabilities related to financed assets na (6) (6) na (8) (8) Interests expenses on lease liabilities na (123) (123) na (125) (125) Appendix 3: economic CAPEX to investments in property, plant and intangible investment Quarterly data 2Q 2025 2Q 2024 historical basis In millions of euros Excluding Spain Spain Group total Excluding Spain Spain Group total Investments in property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 1,841 - 1,841 1,626 - 1,626 Financed assets (4) - (4) (35) - (35) Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (71) - (71) (54) - (54) Telecommunication licenses (207) - (207) 0 - 0 eCAPEX 1,560 - 1,560 1,537 - 1,537 30 June data 6M 2025 6M 2024 historical basis In millions of euros Excluding Spain Spain Group total Excluding Spain Spain Group total Investments in property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 3,555 - 3,555 3,099 168 3,267 Financed assets (16) - (16) (56) - (56) Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (131) - (131) (121) - (121) Telecommunication licenses (386) - (386) (2) (2) (4) eCAPEX 3,023 - 3,023 2,921 166 3,087 Appendix 4: key performance indicators In thousand, at the end of the period June 30 2025 June 30 2024 Number of convergent customers 9,213 9,077 Number of mobile accesses (excluding MVNOs) (1) 261,600 245,899 o/w Convergent customers mobile accesses 16,030 15,602 Mobile only accesses 245,570 230,297 o/w Contract customers mobile accesses 98,137 91,065 Prepaid customers mobile accesses 163,464 154,834 Number of fixed accesses (2) 37,998 38,864 Fixed Retail accesses 26,658 26,700 Fixed Broadband accesses 22,358 21,426 o/w Very highspeed broadband fixed accesses 15,481 13,669 Convergent customers fixed accesses 9,213 9,077 Fixed accesses only 13,145 12,349 Fixed Narrowband accesses 4,300 5,274 Fixed Wholesale accesses 11,340 12,164 Group total accesses (1+2) 299,598 284,763 2024 data is on a comparable basis. Key performance indicators (KPI) by country are presented in the "Orange investors data book Q2 2025" available on www.orange.com, under Finance/Results: www.orange.com/en/latest-consolidated-results Appendix 5: glossary Key figures Data on a comparable basis: data based on comparable accounting principles, scope of consolidation and exchange rates are presented for previous periods. The transition from data on an historical basis to data on a comparable basis consists of keeping the results for the period ended and then restating the results for the corresponding period of the preceding year for the purpose of presenting, over comparable periods, financial data with comparable accounting principles, scope of consolidation and exchange rate. The method used is to apply to the data of the corresponding period of the preceding year, the accounting principles and scope of consolidation for the period just ended as well as the average exchange rate used for the income statement for the period ended. Changes in data on a comparable basis reflect organic business changes. Data on a comparable basis is not a financial aggregate as defined by IFRS and may not be comparable to similarly-named indicators used by other companies. Retail services (B2C + B2B): aggregation of revenues from (i) Convergent services, (ii) Mobile-only services, (iii) Fixed-only services and (iv) IT & integration services (see definitions). Retail Services (B2C+B2B) revenues include all revenues of a given scope excluding revenues from wholesale services, equipment sales and other revenues (see definitions). EBITDAaL or EBITDA after Leases: operating income (i) before depreciation and amortization of fixed assets, effects resulting from business combinations, impairment of goodwill and fixed assets, share of profits (losses) of associates and joint ventures, (ii) after interest on debts related to financed assets and on lease liabilities, and (iii) adjusted for significant litigation, specific labor expenses, fixed assets, investments and businesses portfolio review, restructuring programs costs, acquisition and integration costs and, where appropriate, other specific elements. EBITDAaL is not a financial aggregate as defined by IFRS standards and may not be directly comparable to similarly-named indicators in other companies. eCAPEX or economic CAPEX: (i) acquisitions of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, excluding telecommunications licenses and financed assets, (ii) less the price of disposal of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. eCAPEX is not a financial performance indicator as defined by IFRS standards and may not be directly comparable to indicators referenced by similarly-named indicators in other companies. Organic Cash Flow (telecoms activities): for the perimeter of the telecoms activities, net cash provided by operating activities, minus (i) lease liabilities repayments and debts related to financed assets repayments, and (ii) purchases and sales of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, net of the change in the fixed assets payables, (iii) excluding telecommunication licenses paid and significant litigations paid or received. Organic Cash Flow (telecoms activities) is not a financial aggregate defined by IFRS and may not be comparable to similarly-named indicators used by other companies. Free cash flow all-in (telecoms activities): Free cash flow all-in from telecom activities corresponds to net cash provided by operating activities, minus (i) purchases and sales of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, net of the change in the fixed assets payables, (ii) repayments of lease liabilities and on debts related to financed assets, and (iii) payments of coupons on subordinated notes. Free cash flow all-in from telecom activities is not a financial aggregate defined by IFRS and may not be comparable to similarly-named indicators used by other companies. Earnings per share (EPS) Group share Net income Basic: Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing (a) net income for the year attributable to the shareholders of the Group, after deduction of the remuneration net of the tax to holders of subordinated notes, by (b) the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period. Return On Capital Employed (ROCE): ROCE (Return On Capital Employed) from telecoms activities corresponds to Net Operating Profit After Tax (NOPAT) for the year ended (N) divided by Net Operating Assets (NOA) for the previous year (N-1). Net Operating Profit After Tax (NOPAT) for the year ended (N) corresponds to operating profit (i) after interest on lease liabilities and on debts related to financed assets, and (ii) after income tax adjusted for the tax impact of financial income excluding interest on lease liabilities and on debts related to financed assets (tax charge calculated on the basis of the statutory tax rate applicable in France, the tax jurisdiction of the parent company Orange SA). Net Operating Assets (NOA) for the previous year (N-1) correspond to (i) equity and (ii) financial liabilities and derivative liabilities (noncurrent and current), excluding debts on financed assets, (iii) less financial assets and derivative assets (noncurrent and current), cash and cash equivalents, including investments in Mobile Financial Services. ROCE from telecoms activities is not a financial aggregate defined by IFRS and may not be comparable to similarly-named indicators used by other companies. Performance indicators Fixed retail accesses: number of fixed broadband accesses (xDSL (ADSL and VDSL), FTTx, cable, Fixed-4G (fLTE) and other broadband accesses (satellite, Wimax and others)) and fixed narrowband accesses (mainly PSTN) and payphones. Fixed wholesale accesses: number of fixed broadband and narrowband wholesale accesses operated by Orange. Convergence Convergent services: customer base and revenues from B2C Convergent retail offers, excluding equipment sales (see definition) defined as an offer combining at least a broadband access (xDSL, FTTx, cable or Fixed-4G (fLTE) with cell-lock) and a mobile voice contract (excluding MVNOs). Convergent ARPO: average quarterly revenues per convergent offer (ARPO) calculated by dividing revenues from retail Convergent services offers invoiced to B2C customers generated over the past three months (excluding IFRS 15 adjustments) by the weighted average number of retail Convergent offers over the same period. ARPO is expressed by monthly revenues per convergent offer. Mobile-only services Mobile-only services: revenues from mobile offers (mainly outgoing calls: voice, SMS and data) invoiced to retail customers, excluding convergent services and equipment sales (see definitions). The customer base includes customers with a contract excluding retail convergence, machine-to-machine contracts and prepaid cards. Mobile-only ARPO: average quarterly revenues from Mobile-only (ARPO) calculated by dividing revenues from Mobile-only retail services (excluding machine-to-machine and IFRS 15 adjustments) generated over the past three months by the weighted average of Mobile-only customers (excluding machine-to-machine) over the same period. The ARPO is expressed as monthly revenues per Mobile-only customer. Fixed-only services Fixed-only services: revenues from fixed retail offers, excluding B2C convergent offers and equipment sales (see definitions). It includes (i) fixed narrowband services (conventional fixed telephony), (ii) fixed broadband services, and (iii) business solutions and networks (with the exception of France, for which essential business solutions and networks are supported by Orange Business segment). For the Orange Business segment, Fixed-only service revenues include sales of network equipment related to the operation of voice and data services. The customer base consists of fixed narrowband and fixed broadband customers, excluding retail convergence customers. Fixed-only Broadband ARPO: average quarterly revenues from Fixed-only Broadband (ARPO) calculated by dividing the revenue from Fixed-only Broadband retail services (excluding IFRS 15 adjustments) generated over the past three months by the weighted average of Fixed-only Broadband customers over the same period. ARPO is expressed as monthly revenues per Fixed-only Broadband customer. IT & integration services IT & Integration services: revenues from unified communication and collaboration services (Local Area Network and telephony, advising, integration and project management), hosting and infrastructure services (including Cloud Computing), applications services (customer relations management and other applications services), security services, video conferencing offers, machine-to-machine services (excluded connectivity) as well as sales of equipment related to the above products and services. Wholesale Wholesale: revenues from other carriers consists of (i) mobile services to other carriers including incoming traffic, visitor roaming, network sharing, national roaming and Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), (ii) fixed services to other carriers including national networking, services to international carriers, high-speed and very high-speed broadband access (fibre access, unbundling of telephone lines and xDSL access sales) and the sale of telephone lines on the wholesale market, and (iii) equipment sales to other carriers. Equipment sales Equipment sales: revenues from all mobile and fixed equipment sales, excluding (i) equipment sales associated with the supply of IT & Integration services, (ii) sales of network equipment related to the operation of voice and data services in the Orange Business operating segment, (iii) equipment sales to other carriers, and (iv) equipment sales to dealers and brokers. Other revenues Other revenues: revenues including (i) equipment sales to brokers and dealers, (ii) portal, (iii) on-line advertising revenues, (iv) corporate transversal business line activities, and (v) other miscellaneous revenues. 1 Excluding Spain 2 Unless otherwise stated, percentage changes are on a year-on-year basis, calculated against the first half of 2024 on a comparable basis. 3 Public Switched Telephone Network 4 These targets are on a comparable basis 5 Subject to Shareholdersmeeting approval 6 Source: ARCEP 2024 network quality survey published on 26 June 2025 7 MASORANGE has been consolidated using the equity method since the second quarter of 2024 8 Postpaid excluding M2M Attachment Dublin, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "North America Clinical Trials Market Size and Forecast Report 2025-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The North America Clinical Trials Market is expected to reach US$ 33.91 billion by 2033 from US$ 20.07 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of 6.00% from 2025 to 2033. This is explained by longer clinical trial cycles, the demand for new treatments, and an increase in viral disorders as COVID-19 and diabetes, as well as advantageous government R&D spending. The growing need for novel medicines in a variety of therapeutic areas, including neurology, cardiology, and oncology, is the main factor propelling the North American clinical trials market's constant expansion. As a market leader, the United States enjoys the advantages of strong infrastructure, top-notch research facilities, and substantial investments in innovative healthcare. Drug development procedures are becoming faster and more efficient because to technological developments like big data, artificial intelligence, and decentralized clinical trials. Government financing and support for clinical research also contribute to the market's expansion. Nonetheless, the sector is still affected by issues including regulatory barriers, trouble recruiting patients, and expensive trial operating expenses. The market is nevertheless vibrant and is anticipated to continue evolving in spite of these obstacles. The market will expand quickly as a result of the growing number of clinical trials in North America, the pharmaceutical industry's expensive R&D costs, and the rising incidence of illnesses. Clinical trials for new or uncommon diseases are anticipated to benefit from the diverse disease profiles that are found to be growing with time due to the growing population in the North American region. Therefore, biopharmaceutical companies would be encouraged to increase their investment in clinical trials for a particular disease segment based on the number of patients with that ailment. As of September 2022, there were over 13,323 ongoing clinical studies in various stages for cancer indications in the US, according to the US National Library of Medicine. Over the past few years, pharmaceutical corporations have likewise been spending more and more on research and development (R&D). This was mostly caused by a large number of patents expiring, which leaves many pharmaceutical companies with no choice except to create new medications. As a result, businesses are investing more in R&D to speed up the creation of medications through clinical trials, which will increase the market as a whole. Growth Drivers for the North America Clinical Trials Market Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases One of the main factors propelling the North American clinical trials market's expansion is the growing incidence of chronic illnesses including diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disorders. Clinical trials are being conducted by pharmaceutical corporations and research institutions due to the growing demand for new treatments and therapies as these diseases proliferate. These studies are essential for assessing the efficacy and security of possible treatments. Clinical trials are crucial for expanding medical knowledge and enhancing patient outcomes since chronic diseases frequently call for long-term management and innovative treatment choices. An older population, which is more likely to suffer chronic illnesses, supports this trend and increases the need for ongoing clinical research and innovative therapy development. Advancements in Technology Technological developments are drastically changing the clinical trials environment in North America. Clinical study design, management, and execution are being improved by emerging technologies including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data analytics. These technologies aid in the real-time analysis of massive volumes of trial data, the more accurate identification of qualified applicants, and the prediction of patient outcomes. They thereby shorten trial durations, cut down on mistakes, and enhance decision-making. AI and ML are also being used to remotely monitor patient adherence and optimize protocol design, which lowers costs and increases trial efficiency. These developments make technology a potent growth engine in the dynamic clinical research environment since they not only speed up drug development but also increase trial success rates. Increased Investment in Oncology Research One of the main factors propelling the growth of the clinical trials market is the rising incidence of cancer in North America, which has greatly increased funding for oncology research. The creation of novel cancer treatments is receiving a significant amount of support from public and private institutions as well as pharmaceutical firms. Clinical trials focusing on cancer, such as immunotherapies, targeted medicines, and personalized medical methods, have increased as a result of this financial boom. Research efforts have been sped up by the need to find efficient treatments and raise survival rates, which has prompted quicker trial initiation and increased cooperation between sponsors and research institutes. Since cancer is still one of the top causes of mortality, the region's clinical trial activity is growing in scope and size due to the strong emphasis on oncology research. Challenges in the North America Clinical Trials Market High Operational Costs One major issue facing the clinical trials sector in North America is high operating costs. Significant costs are associated with conducting a clinical trial, such as hiring highly qualified personnel, investing in cutting-edge technology, building out the facility, adhering to regulations, and continuously gathering and tracking data. Complex trial designs, multi-site coordination, and longer study durations can all result in further increases in these expenses. Financial limitations can make it difficult for smaller biotech companies and research institutes to start or continue trials, frequently forcing them to rely on collaborations or outside funding. There is still a lot of pressure to strike a balance between cost effectiveness, data quality, and legal requirements. The cost of trials only goes up as they get more creative and customized, which is a major obstacle to larger research and development initiatives. Regulatory Complexities One of the biggest obstacles facing the clinical trials sector in North America is the complexity of regulations. To guarantee the safety and effectiveness of novel medications and therapies, organizations such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) implement strict and ever-changing regulations. Although these rules are necessary, following them can cause delays in trial approvals and raise compliance expenses dramatically. The procedure, which can be time- and resource-intensive, entails thorough documentation, ethical evaluations, and adherence to stringent criteria. Conducting multinational or multi-site studies also adds another level of complexity because different regulatory requirements in different locations need to be carefully maintained. These elements may cause delays in the start of trials, cause schedule disruptions, and increase the administrative load on sponsors and research institutions. Key Players Analyzed: Overviews, Key Persons, Recent Developments, Revenue ICON Plc Wuxi AppTec SGS SA Syneos Health PRA Health Sciences Inc Pfizer Inc. IQVIA Medpace Stryker Corporation Zimmer Biomet Holdings Orthofix Medical Inc. NuVasive Inc. Globus Medical Inc. Bejo Zaden BV Corteva Agriscience Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 200 Forecast Period 2024 - 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $20.07 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $33.91 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 6.0% Regions Covered North America Key Topics Covered: 1. Introduction 2. Research & Methodology 2.1 Data Source 2.1.1 Primary Sources 2.1.2 Secondary Sources 2.2 Research Approach 2.2.1 Top-Down Approach 2.2.2 Bottom-Up Approach 2.3 Forecast Projection Methodology 3. Executive Summary 4. Market Dynamics 4.1 Growth Drivers 4.2 Challenges 5. North America Clinical Trials Market 5.1 Historical Market Trends 5.2 Market Forecast 6. Market Share 6.1 By Phases 6.2 By Indications 6.3 By Study Designs 6.4 By Countries 7. Phases 7.1 Phase 1 7.2 Phase 2 7.3 Phase 3 7.4 Phase 4 8. Indications 8.1 Autoimmune/Inflammation 8.2 Pain management 8.3 Oncology 8.4 CNS Condition 8.5 Diabetes 8.6 Obesity 8.7 Cardiovascular 8.8 Others 9. Study Designs 9.1 Interventional 9.2 Observational 9.3 Expanded Access 10. Countries 10.1 United States 10.2 Canada 10.3 Mexico 10.4 Rest of North America 11. Porter's Five Forces Analysis 11.1 Bargaining Power of Buyers 11.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers 11.3 Degree of Rivalry 11.4 Threat of New Entrants 11.5 Threat of Substitutes 12. SWOT Analysis 12.1 Strength 12.2 Weakness 12.3 Opportunity 12.4 Threat 13. Key Players Analysis For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/rhsd2c About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Dublin, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Vietnam Construction Equipment Market - Strategic Assessment & Forecast 2025-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Vietnamese Construction Equipment Market was sized at 2575 Units in 2024, and is projected to reach 4,881 Units by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 11.25%. KEY HIGHLIGHTS Earthmoving equipment accounted for the largest market share in the Vietnam construction equipment market in 2024. Excavators in the earthmoving segment accounted for the largest share in 2024. The country's investment in renovating its public infrastructure drives the growth of the country's earthmoving market. The sales of construction equipment are expected to grow at a steady pace in 2024 due to growing investment in public infrastructure, including the transport sector. In 2024, the weakening of Vietnam's local currency, the Dong, was expected to further impact the sales of heavy equipment, including crawler excavators, in the Vietnamese industry. The depreciation of the Vietnamese currency will impact the cost of excavators, as Vietnam majorly depends on imports. In 2024, the country's government planned to invest over USD 25 billion in public infrastructure projects. Chinese manufacturers have a strong market presence in the Vietnam construction equipment market. In 2024, SANY held the strongest industry share among Chinese players in Vietnam. Liugong has established its third subsidiary in Southeast Asia, with the official opening of Liugong Vietnam Company in Hanoi. The government allows the duty-free import of crawler excavators. The country relies on imports of construction machinery, including excavators from China, the U.S., Japan, and Korea. In 2023, Vietnam and Singapore signed an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) to work together on eco-friendly and digital economic initiatives. This agreement will support the launch of new infrastructure projects aimed at achieving net-zero emissions. VIETNAM CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Rising Focus on Compact and Electric Construction Equipment in the Vietnam Construction Equipment Market The Vietnamese construction industry is shifting toward sustainable and electrified solutions. The industry is transforming to use electric construction equipment instead of traditional Internal combustion engine (ICE). The electric construction equipment market is driven by several factors, such as favorable government initiatives and a growing demand for eco-friendly construction projects. However, an important challenge is the high price of electric construction machinery, including electric crawler excavators. To align with the global net-zero emission target, construction equipment manufacturers are focusing on capitalizing on the lithium-ion battery technology in electric excavators and other electric-powered equipment to reduce their carbon footprint. Introduction of Dual Excavators in the Vietnam Construction Equipment Market Due to Their Flexible Uses XCMG, a Chinese multinational company, introduces dual-use diggers and ordinary peach shovels in excavators. It has the advantage of being able to work for multiple purposes at a time, such as a chain hoe and wheel hoe, by switching between the chain and the tires. This equipment is widely used in the construction and manufacturing industries in the country. In 2023, XCMG launched dual excavators that were extremely flexible, cost-efficient, and easy to transport. Chinese companies have recently gained a good industry share due to their innovative products, low prices, and excellent after-sales services. The introduction of dual excavators supports the growth of Chinese companies in the Vietnamese industry. Rise in Infrastructure Investment Projects In 2024, the Vietnam government planned to invest over USD 25 billion in various public infrastructure projects globally. Nearly 65% of the total investment was allocated to the transport sector, which will promote smooth transit and create new development space for localities and regions across the country. The government relies on three investment channels, such as domestic, foreign, and private, for its infrastructure projects. A large amount of the investment is planned for the transport sector, as investment in the transport industry will reduce business logistics costs and increase the competitiveness of businesses and the economy. The Vietnamese government planned 34 major infrastructure projects across 46 provinces in 2024. In addition, the government also planned five railway projects, two airports, and several road, highway, and ring road construction projects in the Hanoi Capital region, Ho Chi Minh City, etc. Such projects are projected to support the growth of the Vietnam construction equipment market. Growing Investment in Renewable Energy Sector The country will face a surge in power demand and consumption over the coming decade, according to the Institute of Energy of Vietnam (IEV). The government expects power consumption to grow 10%-12% annually by 2030. Therefore, the government increases its focus on renewable energy resources to fulfill the growing power demand. The country has high potential to generate solar energy, according to the World Bank. In 2023, the country generated 17,000 MW of solar energy, which was expected to grow in 2024 due to various government initiatives providing tax benefits and subsidies for installing solar power generation units. INDUSTRY RESTRAINTS Shortage of Skilled Labor in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City is experiencing a significant shortage of skilled labor. This shortage is impacting various industries, making it challenging for businesses to recover production and expand their markets. Despite efforts to recruit workers, many companies are struggling to find enough qualified employees. FDI companies in Nghe An, a province in central Vietnam, are struggling to find highly skilled workers as new factories become operational. The province has a significant labor force, yet many workers are migrating to places with better opportunities. High labor turnover, partly due to low wages and inadequate infrastructure, exacerbates the issue. To address this shortage, companies need to improve the working conditions and offer competitive benefits. The demand for skilled labor is expected to surge further by 2025. Increase in Building Material Prices Hampering the Vietnam Construction Equipment Market In 2024, there was a surge in iron and steel prices in the Vietnamese market. The prices of building materials, including iron and steel, increased by 30%-40% in 2024, which pushed up the overall price of real estate projects in the country. In 2024, other construction materials, such as asphalt, saw a price increase of 9%-10%, while the cement price increased by 3%-5% in the Vietnamese market. The increase in building material prices has made real estate prices higher, which adversely impacts the demand among low-income populations. The sharp increase in prices of building materials is due to a mismatch between demand and supply. In 2024, the demand for building materials increased exponentially due to rising government investment in infrastructure and housing projects across the country. VIETNAM CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT MARKET VENDOR LANDSCAPE Komatsu, Volvo CE, Hitachi Construction Machinery, SANY, and Caterpillar are the front runners in the Vietnam construction equipment market. These companies have strong market share and offer diverse sets of equipment in the Vietnamese industry. Yanmar, Kubota, Manitou, Liu Gong, Takeuchi, and JLG are niche players in the Vietnam construction equipment market. These companies offer low product diversification and have a strong presence in the country's market. JCB, Kobelco, Sumitomo, HD Hyundai Construction Equipment, CNH Industrial N.V., Tadano, and Zoomlion are emerging in the Vietnam construction equipment market. These companies are introducing new technologically advanced products to challenge the share of market leaders in the country's market. Kato Works, Airman, Terex, and Shantui have low product diversification in the Vietnam construction equipment market; these companies are lagging in adopting new technologies used in construction equipment. Prominent Vendors Caterpillar Komatsu Volvo Construction Equipment Hitachi Construction Machinery (HCM) Liebherr SANY Xuzhou Construction Machinery Group Co., Ltd. (XCMG) JCB Kobelco Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. Hyundai Construction Equipment Other Prominent Vendors JLG CNH Industrial N.V. Yanmar Liugong Machinery Co., Ltd. Shantui Construction Machinery Co., Ltd Takeuchi SDLG Manitou Sumitomo Construction Machinery Co. Ltd. Kato Works Co. Ltd. Terex Corporation Tadano Bobcat AIRMAN Distributor Profiles Tin Quang Equipment JSC VITRAC Marubeni Heavy Equipment Co., Ltd. JCT Vietnam Multico Equipment Vietnam Co., Ltd UMAC Vietnam Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 150 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value in 2024 2575 Units Forecasted Market Value by 2030 4881 Units Compound Annual Growth Rate 11.2% Regions Covered Vietnam Key Topics Covered: 1. Research Methodology 2. Research Objectives 3. Research Process 4. Introduction 4.1 Market Coverage 4.2 Report Scope 5. Market at a Glance 5.1 Market Overview 5.2 Market Snapshot 6 Executive Summary 7 Market Landscape 7.1 PESTEL Analysis 7.2 Economic Scenario 7.3 Market Dynamics 7.4 Geographic Analysis 7.5 Import & Export Trend Analysis 7.8 Supply Chain Analysis 8 Segmentation 8.1 By Type 8.1.1 Earthmoving Equipment (Volume & Value) 8.1.1.2 Excavators 8.1.1.3 Backhoe Loaders 8.1.1.4 Wheeled Loaders 8.1.1.5 Other Earthmoving Equipment (Skid-Steer Loaders, Track Loaders, Bulldozers & Trenchers) 8.1.2 Road Construction (Volume & Value) 8.1.2.1 Road Rollers 8.1.2.2 Asphalt Pavers 8.1.3 Material Handling (Volume & Value) 8.1.3.1 Cranes 8.1.3.2 Forklifts & Telescopic Handlers 8.1.3.3 Aerial Platforms 8.1.4 Other Equipment (Volume & Value) 8.1.4.1 Dump Trucks 8.1.4.2 Concrete Mixers 8.1.4.3 Concrete Pump Trucks 8.2 By End-user 8.2.1 Construction 8.2.2 Manufacturing 8.2.3 Mining 8.2.4 Other End-users (Waste Management, Agriculture, Oil & Gas Extraction, Power Generation, Disaster & Water Management) 9 Technology Development 10 Competitive Landscape 10.1 Competitive Landscape Overview 10.2 Prominent Vendors 10.3 Other Prominent Vendors 10.4 Distributor Profiles 11 Report Summary 11.1 Key Insights 11.2 Abbreviations 11.3 Exhibits 11.5 Database 11.6 Global Reach 11.7 Offerings For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/tgxeak About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Papendrecht, 29 July 2025 Boskalis and Allseas are pleased to announce that their 50/50 consortium has been awarded a large contract by CPC Corporation Taiwan for the second offshore gas pipeline from Yongan to Tongxiao (YT2). The total contract value is approximately EUR 1.2 billion. This landmark energy project is intended to support the acceleration of energy transition in Taiwan and improve the gas supply capacity in northern Taiwan. Under the contract, the consortium will design, construct, install and pre-commission the new YT2 36-inch offshore natural gas pipeline, which will run approximately 232 kilometers parallel to the existing YT1 pipeline, connecting the Yongan LNG terminal in the Southwest with the Tongxiao transfer station in the Northwest. The comprehensive scope of work includes trenching, pipeline installation with 34 crossings over existing and future infrastructure and assets, backfilling and two landfalls. Within the consortium, Boskalis will be responsible for the landfalls and associated microtunnelling activities, as well as nearshore and offshore trenching, backfilling, and the installation of rocks for the 34 pipeline crossings. For these activities, Boskalis will deploy two large hopper dredgers, a large backhoe dredger, and a subsea rock installation vessel. Allseas will carry out the pipeline installation and pre-commissioning, including the pre-lay installation of concrete mattresses. For these activities, Allseas will deploy two of the most advanced pipelay vessels in the industry. This project demonstrates Boskalis and Allseas commitment to supporting the development of critical energy infrastructure and reinforces their leading position in the offshore sector. By delivering this project in close cooperation with CPC Corporation Taiwan, the consortium will play a key role in enhancing the reliability and security of natural gas supply for the region. Project execution is scheduled to commence in 2026, with completion anticipated in 2028. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION Martijn L.D. Schuttevaer press@boskalis.com T +31 786969310 About Boskalis Boskalis is a leading global services provider operating in the dredging, maritime infrastructure and maritime services sectors. The company provides creative and innovative all-round solutions to infrastructural challenges in the maritime, coastal and delta regions of the world. With core activities such as coastal defense, riverbank protection and land reclamation Boskalis is able to provide adaptive and mitigating solutions to combat the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather conditions and rising sea levels, as well as delivering solutions for the increasing need for space in coastal and delta regions across the world. The company facilitates the development of offshore energy infrastructure, including renewable wind energy. Boskalis is furthermore active in the construction and maintenance of ports, waterways, access channels and civil infrastructure, thus helping to facilitate trade flows and regional socio-economic development. In addition, Boskalis is a global marine salvage expert and provides terminal services at various locations worldwide. With a versatile fleet of approximately 500 vessels and floating equipment and over 11,000 employees, Boskalis is creating new horizons around the world. About Allseas Allseas is a family-owned global offshore contractor specializing in pipelay, subsea construction, and ultra-heavy lift. Since 1985, they have led the offshore energy market through bold innovation, consistently pushing technical boundaries to deliver pioneering, responsible solutions that evolve with the changing energy industry. By delivering cutting-edge solutions to the industry's toughest challenges, learning fast and sharing knowledge, Allseas redefines what is possible above and below the waters surface, and seizes market opportunities that drive sustainable growth, leveraging engineering expertise to develop technologies that will play a key role in accelerating the energy transition. This press release can also be found on our website www.boskalis.com. Attachments Celaneses VitalDose Drug Delivery Platform will enable a long-acting, patient-centric formulation for Meliodays IUD design MUNICH, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Meliodays Medical and Celanese Corporation (NYSE: CE) have signed an agreement related to Meliodays pre-clinical development of MelioOne, the first hormone-free non-contraceptive intrauterine device (IUD) designed to deliver localized relief for menstrual pain. MelioOne combines the proven VitalDose Drug Delivery Platform from Celanese with Meliodays innovative IUD design and non-hormonal active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). More than 80% of menstruating people experience period pain and cramps, says Simone Sabbione, CEO and Co-Founder of Meliodays. Our partnering with Celanese marks the first milestone in achieving our mission to revolutionize menstrual pain management solutions. Our localized release targets pain at its source, avoiding the systemic side effects often associated with oral intake of pain medication. Given the significant impact of period pain on work, school and social life, we are proud to be leading the way with Celanese to enable menstruating women to have a natural cycle without compromising their lives. We are excited to partner with Meliodays in its early development of an IUD in hopes that it ultimately progresses into treatment plans prescribed by healthcare providers to relieve women of menstrual pain, says Brian Duke, Sr. Marketing Manager of Pharmaceutical Solutions at Celanese. Our Celanese team is proud that the VitalDose Drug Delivery Platform has been used in our customers patient-centric therapies that have provided convenient yet efficacious treatment for women for so long. We will continue to advance its use in therapies for women and anywhere sustained drug delivery provides benefits. The VitalDose Drug Delivery Platform provides reliable, controlled-release performance for a wide range of molecule types and has a long history of use in approved parenteral drug products in the United States and Europe. It has been used in patient-centric dose forms which enable treatments for women's health for more than two decades. About Meliodays Medical Meliodays Medical GmbH is a young pharmaceutical company focused on developing a new therapy for hormone-free, local treatment of menstrual pain. Meliodays Medical is developing MelioOne, the first hormone-free, local solution to treat menstrual pain without systemic side effects, thus addressing an area of high unmet medical need. With its innovative healthcare solutions, Meliodays is paving the way to a better quality of life for menstruating people, enabling them to have a pain-free period without affecting their menstrual cycle. For further information, please visit www.meliodays.com and follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram. About Celanese Celanese is a global leader in chemistry, producing specialty material solutions used across most major industries and consumer applications. Our businesses use our chemistry, technology and commercial expertise to create value for our customers, employees and shareholders. We support sustainability by responsibly managing the materials we create and growing our portfolio of sustainable products to meet customer and societal demand. We strive to make a positive impact in our communities and to foster inclusivity across our teams. Celanese Corporation is a Fortune 500 company that employs more than 11,000 employees worldwide with 2024 net sales of $10.3 billion. For more information about Celanese Corporation and its product offerings, visit www.celanese.com. Press Release xSuite Recognition confirms the software company's commitment to creating an exceptional workplace culture Ahrensburg/Germany, July 29, 2025 xSuite Group, a global software provider specializing in automated business processes, has officially been recognized as a Great Place to Work. The certification is awarded by the international research and consulting institute of the same name and is based on a validated process that assesses a company's workplace culture. To earn the certification, xSuite underwent a thorough review process that included anonymous feedback from employees and an evaluation of its HR practices and programs. The company, which provides innovative SaaS and software solutionsespecially in the area of invoice processing within SAPplaces strong emphasis on both customer-centric development and the personal and professional growth of its global team. Were incredibly proud of this recognitionespecially because it reflects the positive feedback of our employees both in Germany and abroad, said Haiko van Lengen, CEO of xSuite Group. Its a testament to the strong team spirit that defines our company culture every single day. The survey results speak for themselves: 83% of employees rate xSuite as a great place to work of employees rate xSuite as a great place to work 96% feel they have the resources and tools needed to succeed feel they have the resources and tools needed to succeed 92% of new hires report feeling welcomed of new hires report feeling welcomed 94% agree that their managers trust them to do a good job without micromanagement Expertise and experience form the foundation of our success, van Lengen continued. We strive to grow continuously as a team and to adopt the latest technologies so we can deliver innovative solutions to our customers. Were particularly proud of our work in artificial intelligence and our ongoing efforts to remain at the forefront of SAP-related innovation. Evelyn Funke, Global Vice President of Human Resources, added: At xSuite, every single employee plays a vital role in our successwhether through writing code or delivering customer solutions. We take responsibility for our clients business processes and the quality of our products. While the company is on a strong growth trajectory, we remain committed to maintaining a family-like atmosphere that encourages creativity and open collaboration. Our informal culture fosters a sense of belonging, allowing everyone to be themselves while contributing meaningfully to the larger mission. About Great Place to Work Great Place to Work is a global authority on workplace culture, helping organizations develop strong employer brands and gain a competitive edge. Certification is based on a representative and anonymous employee survey and a cultural audit of the organization. The institute surveys over 20 million employees each year across 18,000 companies in 170 countries. The German branch, founded in 2002 and headquartered in Cologne, employs around 100 staff members. It was launched at the initiative of the European Commission as part of the Lisbon Strategy to provide a credible tool for promoting and recognizing effective workplace cultures. www.greatplacetowork.com/. About xSuite Group xSuite is a software manufacturer of applications for document-based processes and provides standardized, digital solutions worldwide that enable simple, secure, and fast work. We focus mainly on the automation of important work processes in conjunction with end-to-end document management. Our core competence lies in accounts payable (AP) automation in SAP (including e-invoicing), for leading companies worldwide, as well as for public clients. This is supplemented by applications for purchasing and order processes as well as archiving all delivered from a single source, including both software components and services. xSuite solutions operate in the cloud or in hybrid scenarios. We take pride in the high-quality solutions we offer, as evidenced by the regular certifications we receive for our SAP solutions and deployment environments." With over 300,000 users benefitting from our solutions, xSuite processes more than 80 million documents per year in over 60 countries. Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Ahrensburg, Germany, xSuite has around 300 staff across nine locations worldwide in Europe, Asia, and the United States. Our company has an established information security management system that is certified in accordance with ISO 27001:2022. Press Contact Headquarters: Barbara Wirtz xSuite Group GmbH Marketing & PR Tel. +49 (0)4102/88 38 36 barbara.wirtz@xsuite.com www.xsuite.com Attachment Dublin, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "China Semiconductor Market for Automotive by Component (Microcontroller, Power Semiconductor, Sensor & MEMS Device, Memory Chip, Analog & Mixed Signal IC), Global & China Semiconductor Export, Alternate Destination - Trends and Strategic Recommendation" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. In 2024, China's exports of automotive semiconductors reached USD 419.15 billion in 2024, from USD 280.81 billion in 2020, with a CAGR of 8.9%, driven by increased sales of autonomous and electric vehicles. The report provides valuable information for market leaders and new entrants regarding revenue estimates for both the overall automotive semiconductor market in China and its sub-segments. It will assist stakeholders in understanding the competitive landscape, positioning their businesses more effectively, and planning appropriate go-to-market strategies. Additionally, the report offers insights into the current market conditions and highlights key drivers, restraints, challenges, and opportunities within the industry. China's semiconductor market for the automotive sector is experiencing substantial investment from both domestic and global companies. Major players such as SMIC, Huawei's HiSilicon, YMTC, BYD Semiconductor, and Tsinghua Unigroup are leading domestic efforts, while international firms like Intel, Samsung, and SK Hynix are expanding their presence through joint ventures and new fabrication plants. The Chinese government supports the market with the National Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund (Big Fund), local government funds, subsidies, tax breaks, and low-interest loans, all aimed at achieving self-sufficiency and a complete supply chain. As global demand for advanced electronics and automotive technologies surges, China exports semiconductors worldwide, often using Hong Kong as a trade hub. The rise of modern vehicles, primarily electric and connected cars, has significantly increased the demand for semiconductors, as these vehicles require advanced chips for powertrain control, advanced driver assistance, infotainment, and battery management. Consequently, the automotive sector has become a key driver of semiconductor growth in China. Memory chips are the second-largest segment in China's automotive semiconductor market. Memory chips rank second in the Chinese automotive semiconductor market. These chips also hold the second-largest position in the global semiconductor industry due to soaring demand for data storage and processing, driven by AI, data centers, consumer electronics, and advanced automotive technologies. Memory chips are vital for storing and retrieving data in electronic devices, enabling everything from application execution to real-time system operations - an essential requirement for modern vehicles that rely on significant amounts of data for infotainment, ADAS, and autonomous driving features. Memory chips are extensively used in high-end infotainment systems, ADAS, and digital instrument clusters in cars. Electric and autonomous vehicles demand even more memory due to their complex computing and data processing needs. China is focusing on boosting domestic production of mature-node chips while also making significant advancements in advanced memory technology, particularly in NAND and DRAM, with companies like YMTC and CXMT leading the way. YMTC has developed advanced 3D TLC NAND chips that compete with global leaders like Samsung and Micron, while CXMT has produced and released G4 DDR5 DRAM. SMIC has also manufactured 7 nm chips for Huawei's Mate 60 Pro. India is the second-largest importer of semiconductors from China. India is the second-largest importer of electronics, integrated circuits, and memory chips worldwide. This is primarily due to the country's robust electronics sector, digitalization, and the lack of large-scale domestic semiconductor manufacturing. In 2024, imports of electronic integrated circuits from China alone reached USD 6.1 million. These components are essential in the automotive sector for advanced features such as infotainment, ADAS, telematics, and digital instrument clusters, which require significant memory and processing power. The Indian market for advanced automotive features is rapidly growing, driven by rising consumer demand for connectivity, safety, and electrification. The adoption of EVs and connected cars is accelerating, supported by government initiatives like the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme. Investment in India's electronics and semiconductor ecosystem is also on the rise, with both domestic and international companies expanding production and R&D. The government has launched incentive programs such as the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for electronics manufacturing, further increasing demand for imported memory and integrated circuits as local supply struggles to keep pace. Recent examples include automakers like Tata Motors and Mahindra integrating more sophisticated electronics into their latest models, reflecting the broader trend of technology-driven growth in India's automotive and electronics sectors. Research Coverage: The report provides an in-depth analysis of the China semiconductor market for automotive, focusing on various types, including microcontrollers, power semiconductors, sensors & MEMS devices, memory chips, and analog & mixed-signal integrated circuits. It examines export trends, the impact of trade policies and restrictions, and the diversification of the semiconductor industry away from China. The report also explores alternative manufacturing destinations, offering a comparative analysis of these locations, along with the challenges and strategies associated with the transition. Additionally, the report assesses the effects of the global automotive sector on the semiconductor market and presents a future outlook. It includes detailed information about the major factors driving growth in China's semiconductor market. A thorough analysis of key industry players provides insights into their business overviews, product offerings, key strategies, contracts, partnerships, agreements, new product launches, mergers, and acquisitions. The report provides insights into the following points: Analysis of critical drivers (increased domestic investments in semiconductors), restraints (shortage of manufacturing facilities for 12 mm machines), opportunities (substantial investments by < 12-inch wafer manufacturers), and challenges (technological gap) influencing the growth of the China semiconductor market for automotive Product Development/Innovation: Detailed insights into upcoming technologies and new products launched in the China semiconductor market for automotive Market Development: Comprehensive market information - the report analyses the authentication and brand protection market across Chinese countries Market Diversification: Exhaustive information about new products & services, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments in the China semiconductor market for automotive Competitive Assessment: In-depth assessment of market shares, growth strategies, and service offerings of leading players, such as SMIC, GigaDevice Semiconductor Inc., Novosense Microelectronics, Silan Microelectronics, and HiSilicon Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 104 Forecast Period 2020 - 2024 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2020 $280.81 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2024 $419.15 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.9% Regions Covered China, Global Key Topics Covered: 1 Introduction 1.1 Global Automotive Semiconductor Industry Overview 1.2 Historical Development of China Automotive Semiconductor Industry 1.3 Key Factors Driving Industry Shift from China 1.3.1 Regulatory Factors 1.3.1.1 Restrictive Controls by Us Government 1.3.1.2 Chips Act and Other Global Legislation 1.3.1.3 National Security Concerns 1.3.2 Geopolitical Factors 1.3.2.1 Taiwan Strait Tensions 1.3.2.2 Russia-Ukraine War 1.3.2.3 Technology Alliances 1.3.2.4 Technology Limitations 1.3.3 Economic and Supply Chain Factors 1.3.3.1 Rising Manufacturing Costs in China 1.3.3.2 Incentives from Alternative Locations 1.3.4 Challenges 1.3.4.1 Dependency on Foreign Ip & Architecture and Gaps in Certification 1.3.4.2 Heavy Reliance on Imported Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment 2 China Automotive Semiconductor Industry 2.1 Current State of China's Automotive Semiconductors 2.1.1 Microcontrollers 2.1.1.1 Key Manufacturers, Core Competencies, and Production Capacities 2.1.1.2 Future Roadmap 2.1.2 Power Semiconductors 2.1.3 Sensors & Mems 2.1.4 Memory Chips 2.1.5 Analog & Mixed-Signal Integrated Circuits 2.2 Market Value Assessment 3 Key Players in China Automotive Semiconductor Industry 3.1 Domestic Manufacturers 3.1.1 SMIC 3.1.1.1 Overview 3.1.1.2 Recent Financials 3.1.1.3 Production Plants and Capacity 3.1.1.4 Future Strategy 3.1.2 Gigadevice 3.1.3 Novosense Microelectronics 3.1.4 Silan Microelectronics 3.1.5 Hisilicon 3.1.6 Hua Hong Semiconductor Limited 3.1.7 Byd Semiconductor 3.1.8 Nexperia 3.1.9 Changxin Memory Technologies 3.1.10 Yangtze Memory Technologies Corp 3.1.11 Goertek Microelectronics Inc. 3.1.12 China Resources Microelectronics Limited 3.1.13 Hesai Technology 3.2 Global Manufacturers in China 3.2.1 Nxp Semiconductors 3.2.2 Infineon Technologies 3.2.3 Stmicroelectronics 3.2.4 Texas Instruments 3.2.5 Renesas Electronics Corporation 3.3 Joint Ventures and Strategic Partnerships 4 Export Analysis of China's Automotive Semiconductors 4.1 Key Export Product Categories 4.2 Global Semiconductor Exports 4.3 Exports from China 5 Diversification of China Automotive Semiconductor Industry 5.1 Geopolitical Factors 5.1.1 US-China Trade Tensions 5.1.1.1 US-China Tariffs 5.1.1.2 Diversification Strategies 5.1.2 Technology Export Controls 5.1.2.1 Us & Chinese Technology Export Controls 5.1.2.2 Impact of Export Controls 5.1.3 National Security Concerns 5.2 Supply Chain Resilience Strategies 5.2.1 Knowledge Gained from COVID-19 Pandemic 5.2.1.1 Realization by China After COVID-19 5.2.1.2 Impact on Global Players 5.2.1.3 Shift from Jit to Strategic Resilience 5.3 Economic Factors 5.3.1 Rising Manufacturing Costs in China 5.3.1.1 Cost Comparison 5.3.1.2 Bill of Materials 5.3.2 Incentive Programs in Alternative Locations 5.4 Impact on Global Automotive Industry 5.4.1 Effects on Automotive Production Costs 5.4.2 Supply Chain Reliability and Resilience 5.4.3 Regional Manufacturing Clusters 5.4.4 Technology Development and Innovation Patterns 6 Alternative Manufacturing Destinations 6.1 Overview 6.2 Comparative Analysis of Alternative Manufacturing Locations 6.2.1 Ranking as Alternatives to China 6.3 Technology Dominance, by Country/Region 6.4 Southeast Asia 6.4.1 Malaysia 6.4.1.1 Government Incentives and Support 6.4.1.2 Key Diversifications 6.4.1.3 Challenges 6.4.2 Vietnam 6.4.3 Thailand 6.4.4 Singapore 6.4.5 South Korea 6.4.6 Taiwan 6.5 North America 6.6 Europe 6.7 India 7 Future Outlook and Recommendations 7.1 Projected Industry Shifts, 2025-2030 7.2 Technology Roadmap 7.3 Strategic Recommendations for Industry Stakeholders 7.3.1 Diversification 7.3.2 Technology 7.3.3 Supply Chain For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/s1ysct About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Dublin, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Construction Global Group of Eight (G8) Industry Guide 2020-2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The G8 Construction industry profile provides top-line qualitative and quantitative summary information including: industry size (value, and forecast to 2029). The profile also contains descriptions of the leading players including key financial metrics and analysis of competitive pressures within the industry. Key Highlights The G8 countries contributed $5,434,516.8 million in 2024 to the global construction industry, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% between 2020 and 2024. The G8 countries are expected to reach a value of $6,678,833.4 million in 2029, with a CAGR of 4.2% over the 2024-29 period. Among the G8 nations, the US is the leading country in the construction industry, with market revenues of $2,529,346.5 million in 2024. This was followed by the UK and Germany, with a value of $535,317.8 and $531,800.5 million, respectively. The US is expected to lead the construction industry in the G8 nations with a value of $3,118,792.4 million in 2016, followed by the UK and Germany with expected values of $700,764.5 and $663,082.3 million, respectively. Scope Save time carrying out entry-level research by identifying the size, growth, major segments, and leading players in the G8 construction industry Use the Five Forces analysis to determine the competitive intensity and therefore attractiveness of the G8 construction industry Leading company profiles reveal details of key construction industry players' G8 operations and financial performance Add weight to presentations and pitches by understanding the future growth prospects of the G8 construction industry with five year forecasts Compares data from the US, Canada, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Russia and Japan, alongside individual chapters on each country Reasons to Buy What was the size of the G8 construction industry by value in 2024? What will be the size of the G8 construction industry in 2029? What factors are affecting the strength of competition in the G8 construction industry? How has the industry performed over the last five years? What are the main segments that make up the G8 construction industry? Key Topics Covered: 1 Introduction 1.1. What is this report about? 1.2. Who is the target reader? 1.3. How to use this report 1.4. Definitions 2 Group of Eight (G8) Construction 2.1. Industry Outlook 3 Construction in Canada 3.1. Market Overview 3.2. Market Data 3.3. Market Segmentation 3.4. Market outlook 3.5. Five forces analysis 4 Macroeconomic Indicators 4.1. Country data 5 Construction in France 5.1. Market Overview 5.2. Market Data 5.3. Market Segmentation 5.4. Market outlook 5.5. Five forces analysis 6 Macroeconomic Indicators 6.1. Country data 7 Construction in Germany 7.1. Market Overview 7.2. Market Data 7.3. Market Segmentation 7.4. Market outlook 7.5. Five forces analysis 8 Macroeconomic Indicators 8.1. Country data 9 Construction in Italy 9.1. Market Overview 9.2. Market Data 9.3. Market Segmentation 9.4. Market outlook 9.5. Five forces analysis 10 Macroeconomic Indicators 10.1. Country data 11 Construction in Japan 11.1. Market Overview 11.2. Market Data 11.3. Market Segmentation 11.4. Market outlook 11.5. Five forces analysis 12 Macroeconomic Indicators 12.1. Country data 13 Construction in Russia 13.1. Market Overview 13.2. Market Data 13.3. Market Segmentation 13.4. Market outlook 13.5. Five forces analysis 14 Macroeconomic Indicators 14.1. Country data 15 Construction in The United Kingdom 15.1. Market Overview 15.2. Market Data 15.3. Market Segmentation 15.4. Market outlook 15.5. Five forces analysis 16 Macroeconomic Indicators 16.1. Country data 17 Construction in The United States 17.1. Market Overview 17.2. Market Data 17.3. Market Segmentation 17.4. Market outlook 17.5. Five forces analysis 18 Macroeconomic Indicators 18.1. Country data 19 Company Profiles 19.1. PCL Constructors Inc 19.2. Stantec Inc 19.3. EllisDon Corp 19.4. Aecon Group Inc 19.5. Vinci SA 19.6. Bouygues SA 19.7. Eiffage SA 19.8. Spie Batignolles 19.9. HOCHTIEF AG 19.10. STRABAG SE 19.11. Bilfinger SE 19.12. Max Bogl Bauservice GmbH & Co KG 19.13. Webuild SpA 19.14. Maire SpA 19.15. Rizzani de Eccher SpA 19.16. Daiwa House Industry Co Ltd 19.17. Sekisui House Ltd 19.18. Kajima Corp 19.19. Obayashi Corp 19.20. LSR Group 19.21. Mostotrest 19.22. Balfour Beatty Plc 19.23. Morgan Sindall Group Plc 19.24. Barratt Redrow Plc 19.25. Kier Group Plc 19.26. D.R. Horton Inc 19.27. Lennar Corp 19.28. Bechtel Group Inc 19.29. Turner Construction Co 19.30. Grupo Carso SA de CV 19.31. Coconal SAPI de CV 19.32. Consorcio ARA SAB de CV 19.33. CCLA Group 19.34. Novonor SA 19.35. MRV Engenharia e Participacoes SA 19.36. Andrade Gutierrez SA 19.37. Even Construtora e Incorporadora SA 19.38. China State Construction Engineering Corp Ltd 19.39. China Railway Group Ltd 19.40. China Railway Construction Corp Ltd 19.41. Shanghai Construction Group Co Ltd 19.42. China Communications Construction Co Ltd 19.43. Larsen & Toubro Ltd 19.44. NCC Ltd 19.45. Ircon International Ltd 19.46. Hindustan Construction Co Ltd 19.47. Tata Projects Ltd 19.48. Aveng Ltd 19.49. Wilson Bayly Holmes-Ovcon Ltd 19.50. Raubex Group Ltd 19.51. Murray & Roberts Holdings Ltd 19.52. Actividades de Construccion y Servicios SA 19.53. YIT Corp 19.54. Skanska AB 19.55. NCC AB 19.56. SRV Group Plc 19.57. PT Wijaya Karya (Persero) Tbk 19.58. PT Waskita Karya (Persero) Tbk 19.59. PT PP (Persero) Tbk 19.60. PT Adhi Karya (Persero) Tbk 19.61. Royal BAM Group NV 19.62. Ferrovial SE 19.63. Royal Volker Wessels Stevin NV 19.64. Ballast Nedam NV 19.65. Kiewit Corp 19.66. Veidekke ASA 19.67. AF Gruppen ASA 19.68. Aibel AS 19.69. Yanlord Land Group Ltd 19.70. Woh Hup Pvt Ltd 19.71. City Developments Ltd 19.72. Frasers Property Ltd 19.73. Tiong Seng Holdings Ltd 19.74. Samsung C&T Corp 19.75. Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co Ltd 19.76. GS Engineering & Construction Corp 19.77. POSCO Engineering & Construction Co Ltd 19.78. Obrascon Huarte Lain SA 19.79. FCC Construccion SA 19.80. Grupo Empresarial San Jose SA 19.81. Peab AB 19.82. Alarko Holding AS 19.83. ENKA Insaat ve Sanayi AS 19.84. Ronesans Holding AS 19.85. Nurol Holding Inc 19.86. Downer EDI Ltd 19.87. Lendlease Corp Ltd 19.88. J Hutchinson Pty Ltd 19.89. CIMIC Group Ltd 19.90. Per Aarsleff Holding AS 19.91. MT Hojgaard Holding A/S 19.92. NCC Construction Danmark AS 19.93. Fluor Corp For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/knfa6b About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. TUALATIN, Ore., July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Adopted.com, the pioneering Global Adoption Reunion Registry, proudly announces its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of dedicated service to reuniting mutually consenting loved ones worldwide. Since its inception, Adopted.com has championed the belief that individuals searching for each other should not be hindered by bureaucratic obstacles or prohibitive costs. Founded with the singular mission of creating one central, accessible platform, Adopted.com has transformed the landscape of adoption reunions. Before its arrival, the path to reunion was often fraught with challenges, requiring the opening of sealed records, lengthy waits for agency responses, or significant financial investment in investigators. Adopted.com emerged as an innovator, providing a seamless and instant solution for those mutually seeking connection. Beyond its registry, the platform has cultivated a supportive community, offering invaluable solace and guidance to individuals on their search journeys. "The idea of creating an adoption reunion registry came to me when I was trying to help a friend find his biological family. Due to his circumstances, he wasn't allowed access to the adoption records. This meant a dead end for him," shares Katharine, founder of Adopted.com. "It inspired me to create one, central, global adoption reunion registry where mutually consenting people can find each other instantly. The success of Adopted.com has been extraordinary." Over the past 20 years, Adopted.com has facilitated countless thousands of heartfelt reunions, bringing immense joy and closure to families. The platform's commitment to innovation has been unwavering. Driven by member feedback and leveraging new technological advancements, Adopted.com continually refines its algorithm through robust front-end and back-end efforts. This dedication includes consistently improving its user-friendly interface, ensuring quick and consistent support, and most recently, introducing state-of-the-art cross-platform DNA comparison options to enhance search capabilities. Adopted.com looks forward to continuing its vital work, empowering individuals to connect with their loved ones and fostering a world where mutual consent is all that's needed for a reunion. About Adopted.com: Adopted.com is a leading global adoption reunion registry founded 20 years ago with the mission to provide a central, seamless platform for mutually consenting individuals to reunite. Committed to overcoming traditional barriers, Adopted.com also offers a supportive community and continuously integrates new technologies to improve the reunion experience. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2a783f25-d3d8-4edf-8b2c-069eda23d8e7 ROUGEMONT, Quebec, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lassonde Industries Inc. (TSX: LAS.A) (Lassonde or the Corporation) today announced that after consideration of his personal and professional goals, Eric Gemme, its Chief Financial Officer, will be retiring from Lassonde on July 1, 2026. The timing of the departure enables a thoughtfully managed transition for the Corporation. Eric has been a trusted colleague who has supported me and the leadership team in the implementation of a new strategy for Lassonde. As well, through his leadership and dedication, he has strengthened our financial capabilities, enabled key acquisitions, and fostered important stakeholder relations. On behalf of our Board and management team, I wish him all the best in his future endeavors, said Vince Timpano, Chief Executive Officer of Lassonde. I am truly grateful for the many years I spent at Lassonde and the opportunity to work alongside such an exceptional team. I have every confidence that they will continue to build on the impressive accomplishments we achieved together," expressed Mr. Gemme. The Corporation has initiated a process to select an executive search firm to assist in recruiting a successor. About Lassonde Headquartered in Canada and with operations across North America, Lassonde Industries Inc. is a leader in the food and beverage industry in North America. The Corporation develops, manufactures, and markets a wide range of national brand and private label products, including fruit juices and drinks, specialty food products, and fruit-based snacks. Lassonde also manufactures and markets cranberry sauces as well as selected wines, ciders and other alcoholic beverages. Altogether, Lassonde distributes over 3,500 unique products in approximately 200 formats across shelf-stable, chilled, and frozen categories. The Corporations go-to-market strategy consists of (i) retail sales to food retailers and wholesalers such as supermarket chains, independent grocers, superstores, warehouse clubs, convenience stores, and major pharmacy chains and (ii) food service sales to restaurants, hotels, hospitals, schools, and wholesalers serving these institutions. Lassonde operates 19 plants located in Canada and the United States through the expertise of over 2,900 full-time equivalent employees. To learn more, visit www.lassonde.com. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES WILMINGTON, Mass., July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd. (Liberty or the Company) (TSXV: SCAN, OTCQB: LDDFF, FRANKFURT: E30), a leading technology provider of AI-based next generation detection solutions for concealed weapons and threats, is pleased to announce that it has closed the non-brokered private placement of 20 million units (the Units) of the Company at the price of C$0.22 per Unit for gross proceeds of $4.4 million (the Offering), which was previously announced on July 8, 2025 and July 17, 2025. Each Unit will consist of one common share in the capital of the Company (a Common Share) and one Common Share purchase warrant (a Warrant). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share of the Company (a Warrant Share) from September 27, 2025 until July 28, 2026 at the exercise price of C$0.35 per Warrant Share. We sincerely appreciate the ongoing support and confidence from our investors and partners, said CEO Bill Frain. The strong demand for our recent $4.4 million financing is a clear endorsement of our vision and progress. These funds will enable us to accelerate the deployment of our HEXWAVE technology into more public environments and strategically position us to seize new opportunities with the rollout of our HD-AIT system later this year. Were excited about the momentum building as we head toward a strong finish to 2025. The Offering was completed pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions, accordingly, the securities issued in the Offering are not subject to a hold period in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. There is an offering document (the Offering Document) related to the Offering that can be accessed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at: www.libertydefense.com. Prospective investors should read this Offering Document before making an investment decision. In connection with the Offering, the Company paid to certain finders cash commission of C$158,393.99 and issued 719,973 non-transferrable warrants of the Company exercisable at any time until July 28, 2025 to acquire one Common Share at an exercise price of C$0.35, subject to adjustment in certain events. The securities issued pursuant to the Offering have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act), or any state securities laws. Accordingly, the securities issued pursuant to the Offering may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities of the Company in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. On Behalf of Liberty Bill Frain CEO & Director About Liberty Liberty (TSXV: SCAN, OTCQB: LDDFF, FRANKFURT: LD2) provides multi-technology security solutions for concealed weapons detection in high volume foot traffic areas and locations requiring enhanced security such as airports, stadiums, schools, and more. Libertys HEXWAVE product, for which the Company has secured an exclusive license from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), as well as a technology transfer agreement for patents related to active 3D radar imaging technology, provides discrete, modular, and scalable protection to provide layered, stand-off detection capability of metallic and non-metallic weapons. Liberty has also recently licensed the millimeter wave-based, High-Definition Advanced Imaging Technology (HD-AIT) body scanner and shoe scanner technologies as part of its technology portfolio. Liberty is committed to protecting communities and preserving peace of mind through superior security detection solutions. Learn more: LibertyDefense.com For further information about Liberty, please contact: Jay Adelaar, Senior Vice President of Capital Markets Email: jay@libertydefense.com Tel: 604-809-2500 FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS When used in this press release, the words estimate, project, belief, anticipate, intend, expect, plan, predict, may or should and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Although Liberty believes, in light of the experience of their respective officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and information in this press release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the parties can give no assurance that such statements will prove to be correct. The forward-looking statements and information in this press release include, amongst others, the use of proceeds of the Offering. Such statements and information reflect the current view of Liberty. Such statements and information reflect the current view of Liberty. There are risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. There are a number of important factors that could cause Libertys actual results to differ materially from those indicated or implied by forward-looking statements and information. Such factors include, among others: currency fluctuations; limited business history of the parties; disruptions or changes in the credit or security markets; results of operation activities and development of projects; project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; and general development, market and industry conditions. The parties undertake no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of their securities or their respective financial or operating results (as applicable). Liberty cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. When relying on Libertys forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Liberty has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraph will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Liberty as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Liberty does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. WOODBRIDGE, N.J., July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Plymouth Rock Assurance , a leading auto and home insurance provider in the Northeast, is proud to announce a new auto insurance discount program in collaboration with Innovative Benefit Planning (Innovative). This opportunity reflects Plymouth Rocks commitment to supporting Innovative members and their employees with valuable benefits, tailored coverage options, and dedicated service. The program offers personal auto insurance discounts and is available to all members and their employees of Innovative in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. It includes unique benefits like the Get Home Safe taxi and rideshare reimbursement and Crashbusters mobile claim service, in addition to the quality coverage and friendly service consistently offered by Plymouth Rock. Partnering with Innovative Benefit Planning allows us to support their mission of delivering meaningful, forward-thinking benefits to employer groups, said Greg Kalinsky, President & CEO of the Plymouth Rock Management Company of New Jersey. As a trusted advisor in the employee benefits space, Innovative is known for creating tailored solutions that meet the needs of both employers and employees. By offering our voluntary auto insurance program, were helping them expand those offerings with a solution that speaks to real, everyday needs. This collaboration includes exclusive savings for Innovatives clients and their employees making it easier to access protection and peace of mind, while giving employers another way to show they care. "Our new partnership with Plymouth Rock allows us to offer this Preferred Savings Program to our clients and their employees, said Terriann Procida, CEO, Innovative Benefit Planning. We're always looking for ways to support our clients' overall well-being, both in the workplace and beyond. This program is another step in delivering meaningful value and everyday savings to those we serve." About Plymouth Rock Plymouth Rock was established to offer its customers a higher level of service and a more innovative set of products and features than they would expect from an insurance company. Plymouth Rocks innovative approach puts customers convenience and satisfaction first, giving them the choice to do business the way they want online, using a mobile device, by phone or with one of Plymouth Rocks agents. Plymouth Rock Assurance and Plymouth Rock are brand names and service marks used by separate underwriting, managed insurance, and management companies that offer property and casualty insurance in multiple states pursuant to licensing arrangements. Taken together, the companies write and manage more than $2.3 billion in auto and home insurance premiums across Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Each underwriting and managed insurance company is a separate legal entity that is financially responsible only for its own insurance products. Actual coverage is subject to the language of the policy as issued. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, features and benefits are not available in all states and companies, and premiums may vary by purchase method. Certain limitations may apply. You can learn more about us by visiting plymouthrock.com. About Innovative Benefit Planning In 1989, Terriann Procida and Mark Sulpizio had a vision. The pair wanted to build something special for the benefits management and financial services industry a company that was not only people-focused but also looked to improve the industry as a whole. They wanted to create a company where both employer and employee could have the outcome they wanted a true win-win. Innovative Benefit Planning was founded on work ethic, integrity, credibility, and experience. It was fitting for two founders who believe the key to long-term relationships is doing whats right for people. Running a people-focused business doesnt mean simply saying you focus on service. Actions matter. With Innovative, youll know everyone on our team by name. But more than that, employee happiness, well-being, and engagement arent just things we see as a nice to have. Its the very reason that youre hiring us. At Innovative, we hold core beliefs that define how we conduct business. No matter the size of your business, workforce or revenues, we will treat you how you deserve to be treated: with integrity. Media Contact: Kevin Long Plymouth Rock mediarelations@plymouthrock.com MIAMI, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Trawick International, a leading provider of international travel insurance and assistance services, is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with AmTrust Financial Services, Inc., a global powerhouse in specialty insurance solutions. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in Trawick Internationals mission to deliver more robust, flexible, and personalized travel insurance options. By combining Trawicks deep market expertise with AmTrusts industry-leading underwriting capabilities, the partnership will fuel the development of innovative trip cancellation and travel protection plans that better serve todays travelers. This partnership with AmTrust represents more than just expanded capabilities; its a shared commitment to protecting what matters most: the traveler, said Bailey Foster, Senior Vice President of Travel Insurance at Trawick International. Together, were building smarter, more seamless coverage that meets travelers where they are and helps them go even farther. Daryl Trawick, President and CEO of Trawick International, emphasized the strategic alignment between the two companies: Working with AmTrust strengthens our ability to deliver next-generation solutions tailored to an ever-changing global travel environment. This partnership allows us to stay ahead of the curve and continue delivering the kind of comprehensive, dependable protection travelers need and expect from us. The alliance reflects both companies shared commitment to innovation, exceptional service, and meeting the evolving demands of todays travel landscape. Jeff Fenster, EVP Specialty Risk, at AmTrust Financial Services added, AmTrust is excited to collaborate with Trawick International, a trusted leader in the travel insurance industry. Together, we will deliver enhanced products and exceptional service that travelers can rely on, giving them confidence and protection no matter where they travel. Together, were building travel insurance for a new era. Anywhere Starts Here. About Trawick International For over 25 years, Trawick International has been a leading provider of international insurance, administration, and assistance services. The company offers a full suite of innovative products and services designed to support todays globally mobile population. For more, visit trawickinternational.com. About AmTrust Financial Services AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. is a multinational insurance holding company headquartered in New York. AmTrust provides specialty property and casualty insurance products, including workers' compensation, business owners policies, and warranty and specialty risk coverage. AmTrusts solutions are backed by superior underwriting expertise and exceptional customer service. For more information, visit www.amtrustfinancial.com. Media Contact Emily Tarkany Senior Marketing Manager Trawick International Emily.Tarkany@TrawickInternational.com Columbus, OH, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (Columbus, OH July 29, 2025) The Tim Lamb Group, the largest auto dealership sales and acquisitions firm in North America, is proud to announce the addition of Mike McMeeken as Director of the South Central Region. Based in Houston, Texas McMeeken will begin his role on August 1, 2025. McMeeken brings extensive experience and a strong reputation for integrity to his new position, having facilitated 35 buy/sell transactions involving 60+ rooftops and 17 OEM brands across North America. With nearly a decade spent leading Corporate Development for a mid-sized private dealership group, McMeeken offers an insiders perspective on nearly every facet of the transaction process, maintaining strict confidentiality and identifying the right buyers, to managing key legal documents, navigating OEM approvals, and preparing for a smooth close. Throughout the process, he remains focused on overcoming hurdles and safeguarding each dealers legacy, brand, and culture. His transparent hands-on approach helps clients feel supported and confident through every stage of the journey. Mikes hands-on approach, deep industry knowledge, and sincere commitment to doing whats right for clients make him a perfect fit for our team, said Tim Lamb, President of Tim Lamb Group. McMeeken holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with Honors in Finance from the Okanagan School of Business in Kelowna, British Columbia. His early career in equity research advising institutional investors, combined with the grit he developed working on drilling rigs to fund his education, shaped the grounded, transparent style hes now known for in the auto retail industry. Recognized as a rising leader in automotive M&A, McMeeken was named Automotive News Top 40 Under 40 in 2024. In his new role, Mike will focus on helping dealership owners throughout the South Central U.S., including Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and New Mexico, achieve high-value, strategic exits with professionalism, clarity, and peace of mind. Joining the Tim Lamb Group is an incredible opportunity to align with a team that shares my values: transparency, integrity, and doing whats right for the client, said McMeeken. After spending years on the dealership side of the table, I understand the weight of these decisions. Im excited to help owners navigate the process with clarity and confidence, and to be a trusted partner in one of the most important transitions of their careers. About Tim Lamb Group Since 2006, Tim Lamb Group has been the number one choice for dealers looking to sell, or purchase, a new vehicle dealership. Fifteen regional directors handle billions of dollars per year in transactions for multiple dealer operators in every part of the United States and Canada. The Group has leveraged their OEM management experience and retail dealership background to become the largest auto dealership sales and acquisitions firm in North America. For more information and dealerships for sale, visit www.timlambgroup.com ### Denver, Colorado, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Businessolver, the market-leader in SaaS-based HR and benefits technology, wrapped up the first half of 2025 with an impressive list of technology innovations, recognitions, and growth. Fueled by strategic investments and market expansion, Businessolver has grown its workforce to more than 3,100 Solversa significant increase that amplifies delivery capacity, deepens domain expertise, and strengthens its ability to serve the complex needs of large, diverse employers. This scaled growth positions Businessolver as a dependable enterprise partner, delivering both the innovation and stability todays HR and benefits leaders demand. This organizational momentum mirrors the strong demand from the market: Businessolver achieved planned double-digit percentage growth in client accounts and in participant accounts in the first half of 2025. These growth figures reflect employers increasing need for scalable, high-touch benefits solutions that deliver value across every employee touchpointfrom enrollment to engagement and beyond. Everything weve delivered in the first half of 2025 has one goal: Delight, said Jon Shanahan, President and CEO of Businessolver. We remain committed to our founding principle of delight which has served our employees, customers, and stakeholders, resulting in consistent double-digit growtheven amid some of the most challenging market cycles. Highlights from Businessolvers extensive list of Q1 and Q2 product milestones include: MyChoice Accounts (MCA) spending accounts administration launched as a standalone offering, providing companies nationwide with access to a modern, unified way of managing pre-tax spending and savings accounts. The move reflects rising demand among employers for solutions that unify HSA, FSA, and HRA experiences within a flexible, self-service ecosystembacked by real-time guidance and best-in-class security. Read more here. All-new spend, save, invest experience debuted within MCA giving employees a consolidated, holistic view of their financial wellbeing. In response to findings from Businessolver's 2025 Benefits Insights report showing 48% of employees would feel panicked about an unexpected medical expense, MCA enhancements empower employees to spend, save, and invest with confidence, including a modern line-up of exchange-traded funds (EFTs) and save capabilities via money market accounts. Adaptive Intelligence is the new AI. Artificial Intelligence took on new meaning in Q1 as the company announced its long-term AI vision and roadmap with forward-thinking initiatives focused on embedding personalization and empathy across its platform. In 2024, Businessolvers AI-enabled technology saved clients $3 million on averageproving theres nothing artificial about the real results AI is driving. Businessolver also announced the launch of Sofias agentic framework, leveraging agents to meet each unique need within the benefits ecosystem. Sofia, Businessolvers AI virtual assistant, received a UX refresh. Building on Businessolvers AI leadership, Sofias capabilities were enhanced with a consumer-grade user interface designed for scalability, improved engagement, and intuitive interactions. Behind the scenes, conversational flows were enhanced to provide contextual responses that guide users with both empathy and accuracy. Expanded Benefits Insights Dashboards: HR teams now have access to deeper benefits usage insights with the expansion of the companys Benefits Insights Dashboard analytics suite, enabling enhanced decision-making and optimized campaigns. Onboarding guides drive adoption and self-service: First-time platform users have more personalized onboarding support through contextual guides that take them through early actions, improving user confidence, self-service, and benefits activation from day one. Businessolver earns accolades for AI excellence, product innovation, and culture Businessolvers investments in innovation, culture, and client outcomes continue to earn national recognition. These honors reinforce Businessolvers role as a trusted partner for enterprise organizations seeking scalable, future-ready benefits technology backed by award-winning service and AI leadership. Forbes Best Midsize Employer Fourth consecutive year Business Intelligence Group Award - AI Excellence, Outstanding Organization HR Tech Awards Finalist - Best Comprehensive Solution, Total Rewards and Employee Wellbeing Partnership and acquisition milestones drive growth and brand for Businessolver Businessolvers recent partnerships and global expansion reflect a deliberate approach to growthone that prioritizes global delivery excellence, brand differentiation, and long-term value creation. These moves extend its operational reach, reinforce its commitment to around-the-clock service, and amplify the Businessolver brand in innovative new arenas. In July, Businessolver deepened its commitment to service delivery and client delight by expanding its global footprint through acquisition of assets from former long-term service partner ProView Global, a dedicated Pinoy workforce with deep expertise in benefits administration. The strategic move strengthens the companys global operations, expands 24/7 back-end and administrative support capabilities, and brings over 60 years of combined benefits experience to the organization. As a founding sponsor of the inaugural TGL season, the Businessolver brand was proud to be a part of an exciting new take on a traditional sport, that exceeded expectations, drawing over a million viewers during its peakwhile reaffirming the companys dedication to technology-first innovation that challenges conventional boundaries. 10-year milestones and other notable leadership achievements In a fast-moving industry, Businessolvers ability to pair innovation with enduring leadership is a key differentiator. Businessolvers tenth annual Empathy study, executive team continuity, and sustained investment in inclusive, people-first technology reflect a deeply held commitment to long-term stakeholder value, cultural integrity, and purpose-driven growth. 10th Annual Empathy Study: The 2025 State of Workplace Empathy study underscored the strong business value of empathy, showing a lack of empathy costs U.S. organizations $180 billion annually. Strong leadership stability and tenure: No executive team changes were reported, with leadership tenure averaging 11 years. This continuity strengthens strategic alignment and reinforces the companys long-term commitment to stakeholder value. Inclusive innovation and culture: The company advanced its commitment to both inclusive technology and people-first culture by integrating WCAG 2.2 AA accessibility features and showcasing its diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) achievements, including an 86% positive company culture rating. Were on a continued mission to simplify benefits while simultaneously delighting our customers and employees, said Shanahan. Innovation is important, but it cant come at the cost of stability. Weve managed to grow the business, innovate, and excel at cultureall at a time when the trajectory for many companies has not been as favorable. This speaks to our unwavering Solver ingenuity and dedication to delight. About Businessolver Since 1998, Businessolver has delivered market-changing benefits technology that empowers empathetic service supported by an intrinsic responsiveness to client needs. The company creates client programs that maximize benefits program investment, minimize risk exposure, and engage employees with easy-to-use solutions and communications tools to assist them in making wise and cost-efficient benefits selections. Founded by HR professionals, Businessolvers unwavering service-oriented culture and secure SaaS platform provide measurable success in its mission to provide complete client delight. FRISCO, Texas, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NT Logistics (NT), a third-party logistics (3PL) provider, today announced a strategic realignment of its executive leadership team as the company celebrates its 26th anniversary. Effective August 1, 2025, Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lynn Gravley will now focus on long-term growth, external partnerships, and supporting the next generation of company leadership. As part of the transition, Chris Todd has been appointed President and Chief Operating Officer (COO). A founding member of NT Logistics, Todd has been instrumental in the companys evolution from a startup to a trusted transportation partner in North America. In his new role, he will oversee day-to-day operations and lead enterprise-wide initiatives across customer success, technology, operational efficiency, and market expansion. Chris has been at the core of NTs success from the very beginning, said Gravley. His deep understanding of our business, steady leadership, and commitment to our people and customers make him the right leader to guide the companys operations forward. Chris Todd brings 26 years of experience and deep institutional knowledge to his new role as President and Chief Operating Officer. Having helped lead the company through every stage of its growth, Todd will focus on aligning operational priorities with long-term strategic goals, driving performance, and scaling customer-focused initiatives. Its an honor to step into this role and build on the strong legacy weve created, Todd said. Im excited to help NT into its next chapter of growth, innovation, and customer excellence. Additionally, Alex Fritz has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer. Fritz joined NT Logistics in 2017 and has since played a critical role in shaping the companys financial strategy and data capabilities. In his expanded role, he will lead financial planning, forecasting, pricing strategy, capital management, and business intelligence functions. Fritz said, Im excited to continue working alongside such a dedicated team and to support our customers with the same integrity and focus that define NT. With our expanded capabilities in pricing and business intelligence, Im confident we can help the company navigate the challenges of a volatile market and position ourselves for long-term success. Gravleys new responsibilities will center on advancing the companys broader vision by building innovative alliances and leading strategic initiatives that open new avenues for growth. Added Gravley, I have complete confidence in Chris and Alex and believe their leadership positions will set us up for continued growth and innovation. For more information about this announcement and to learn more about NT Logistics leadership team, please visit: https://www.ntlogistics.com/leadership-team/ . About NT Logistics NT Logistics, Inc. , a privately held transportation management and logistics service company headquartered in Frisco, Texas, provides its national customer base with a full array of transportation and integrated logistics services. As a non-asset-based third-party logistics provider (3PL), the company acts as an intermediary for manufacturers and shippers to distribute products. NT Logistics offers a wealth of business arranged transportation solutions that reduce costs, add value to the supply chain and improve performance. Founded in July 1999, the company has additional offices in Lubbock, Texas; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Springdale, Arkansas; Grand Rapids, Michigan and Phoenix, Arizona. Learn more at www.ntlogistics.com . Media Contact: Makayla Cruz LeadCoverage makayla@leadcoverage.com DALLAS, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Highway, the leader in carrier identity and access management solutions for the freight and logistics industry, today released its Q2 2025 Freight Fraud Index , reporting a significant rise in fraud attempts targeting freight brokers and carrier networks. The index reveals that in Q2, Highway flagged and blocked: 495,267 fraudulent email attempts 42,421 suspicious phone numbers 2,281 identity alerts Compared to Q1 2025, fraudulent email attempts increased by 41%, and broker-reported identity fraud rose by 23%, which further highlights the growing threat posed by layered, multi-channel attacks. These findings also reflect broader national trends. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NCIB) recently reported a 27% year-over-year increase in U.S. cargo theft , with identity manipulation, email compromises, and phone-based identity fraud among the top tactics used by fraud rings. Freight fraud isnt just opportunistic anymoreits coordinated and strategic, said Michael Grace, Vice President of Customer Risk Management at Highway. Attackers are gaining trust, mimicking legitimate behavior, and infiltrating networks through identity blind spots brokers and carriers dont even realize exist. Key findings from the index disclose that compromised inboxes, a surge in phone-based impersonation, as well as sold motor carriers (MC) and illegitimate ownership changes are driving theft across the industry and abroad. Brokers are increasingly falling victim to fraudsters who hijack legitimate carrier inboxesoften targeting Gmail, Microsoft, and Yahoo accounts without multi-factor authentication (MFA). Once inside, attackers intercept rate confirmations, reroute payments, and impersonate dispatchers to steal freight. Recently, Microsoft SharePoint servers experienced a series of attacks , which nearly a week later, zero-day exploits were discovered with alarms activated globally. According to Eye Security, over 400 organizations have been actively compromised across four separate waves of initiated attacks. Inclusive of these organizations are Homeland Security, the Department of Energy, and Health and Human Services. To address the surge in compromised inboxes, Highway launched Secure Rate Con Delivery in May. The feature ensures that rate confirmations can only be accessed by verified, authenticated users, blocking fraud even if an inbox has been compromised. In addition, to counter the current surge in phone-based identity fraud, Highway for VoIP was introduced late 2024 to proactively detect and block fraudulent calls. Highway identified and blocked over 42,000 fraudulent inbound calls, a 37% increase from Q1 2025. These calls, often masquerading as real carriers, are used to solicit rate confirmations or alter contact information through impersonation. Highway for VoIP integrates directly into broker IVR systems, using Highways Identity Engine to detect and reroute spoofed or high-risk phone numbers before they reach carrier sales teams. Lastly, fraudsters are purchasing or acquiring MC numbers and using them to operate under the radar. In June 2025, Highway detected a 135% spike in suspicious MC ownership changes connected to strategic cargo theft reports. If you don't know who you're working with, you're giving fraud a head start. Identity checks should be standard, not optional, said Michael Grace. In May alone, 50% of reported thefts occurred during Memorial Day week (May 2630), when reduced staffing and high shipment volumes create the ideal environment for fraud. Bad actors take advantage of the long weekend to target perishables, electronics, and seasonal inventory, continued Grace. Based on our intelligence, we expect more calculated and observant tactics, with attackers closely monitoring broker communication patterns and striking when gaps appear. To mitigate risk, Highway encourages brokers to: Use secure delivery methods for rate confirmations Verify contact changes and MC activity through trusted platforms Require multi-factor authentication wherever possible Educate operations teams on the latest red flags and escalation paths Fraudsters are patient. Theyre watching, waiting, and moving when your defenses are down, added Grace. Highway gives brokers the tools to stop fraud before it startsthrough real-time identity verification at every point of interaction. To learn more about the Freight Fraud Index and Highways products and solutions, visit https://highway.com/. About Highway Highway is the leading technology provider specializing in Carrier Identity solutions for freight brokers, empowering them to reduce fraud and streamline the digital booking process. By automating compliance, Highway gives brokers the ability to enforce an all-new standard, enabling them to efficiently identify the right carrier for every load and build their network with speed and security. With a commitment to transparency, trust, and truth, Highway equips brokers with the data necessary to focus on delivering exceptional service while driving business growth without fear of fraud. For more information, visit https://highway.com/ MEDIA CONTACT: Makayla Cruz LeadCoverage makayla@leadcoverage.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d032d25a-e390-42b7-819f-2a831173bc90 Dublin, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Iceland Data Center Market - Investment Analysis & Growth Opportunities 2025-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Icelandic Data Center Market was valued at USD 425 Million in 2024, and is projected to reach USD 812 Million by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 11.39%. In the current landscape of colocation investors, several established companies play a significant role. Notable players in the Icelandic data center market include atNorth, Borealis Data Center, and Verne. atNorth and Borealis, utilize direct-air cooling at their facilities to bring down the temperature of their units. As of 2025, there is no direct presence of major hyperscalers in the Icelandic data center market. However, growing investment, 100% renewable energy, excellent global connectivity, and favorable climate conditions position Iceland as a strong candidate for future hyperscale expansion. KEY HIGHLIGHTS The Iceland data center market growth is driven by several factors, including the presence of bitcoin miners, high power reliability, the presence of green energy, suitable climatic conditions, high internet and social media penetration, strong inland and submarine cable connectivity, and a strong regulatory framework. Reykjavik is the data center destination in the country. The city is marked by a concentrated growth in advanced facilities, hyperscale data centers, and dedicated cloud regions. As of January 2025, the industrial price of land in Reykjavik, Iceland, ranged between $4,500-$7,000 per sq m. Furthermore, Akureyri & Northern Iceland region also have a lower entry price than Reykjavik, along with a quality infrastructure. As a European Economic Area (EEA) member, Iceland provides tariff-free access to the EU market, paired with World Trade Organization (WTO) membership, 50+ double tax treaties, and trade agreements. It offers a reduced corporate tax rate as compared to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries, which plays a significant role in attracting investments in the Iceland data center market. According to a report by the Ministry and Statistics Iceland, effective adoption of AI in Iceland could add between USD 1.42 billion and USD 11.83 billion to the economy of Iceland by 2029, depending on how quickly and widely AI is used. Data center operators in Iceland consistently achieve low PUE ratios, between 1.1 and 1.2, far below the global average (1.57), showcasing top-tier energy efficiency. SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS: IT Infrastructure Server Infrastructure Storage Infrastructure Network Infrastructure Electrical Infrastructure UPS Systems Generators Switches & Switchgears PDUs Other Electrical Infrastructure Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems Rack Cabinets Other Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems CRAC and CRAH Chillers Cooling Towers, Condensers, and Dry Coolers Other Cooling Units General Construction Core & Shell Development Installation & commissioning Services Building & Engineering Design Fire Detection & Suppression Systems Physical Security Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) Tier Standard Tier I & Tier II Tier III Tier IV WHY SHOULD YOU BUY THIS RESEARCH? Market size available in the investment area, power capacity, and the Iceland colocation market revenue. Data center investments in the area (square feet) and power capacity (MW) across cities in the country. A detailed study of the existing Iceland data center market landscape, an in-depth market analysis, and insightful predictions about the Iceland data center market size during the forecast period. Snapshot of existing and upcoming third-party data center facilities in Iceland Facilities Covered (Existing): 08 Facilities Identified (Upcoming): 02 Coverage: 4+ Locations Existing vs. Upcoming (Data Center Area) Existing vs. Upcoming (IT Load Capacity) Data center colocation market in Iceland Colocation Market Revenue & Forecast (2021-2030) The Iceland data center landscape market investments are classified into IT, power, cooling, and general construction services, with sizing and forecast. A comprehensive analysis of the latest trends, growth rate, potential opportunities, growth restraints, and prospects for the industry. Business overview and product offerings of prominent IT infrastructure providers, construction contractors, support infrastructure providers, and investors operating in the industry. A transparent research methodology and the analysis of the demand and supply aspects of the industry. EXISTING VS. UPCOMING DATA CENTERS Existing Facilities in the region (Area and Power Capacity) Reykjavik Other Cities List of Upcoming Facilities in the region (Area and Power Capacity) Reykjavik Other Cities IT Infrastructure Providers Broadcom Cisco Dell Technologies Hewlett-Packard Enterprise Huawei Technologies Hitachi Vantara IBM Lenovo NetApp Data Center Construction Contractors & Sub-Contractors AVH Blikk & Taekni COWI Perago Bygg Rafeyri Raftakn Support Infrastructure Providers Alfa Laval Carrier Eaton Legrand Schneider Electric Socomec STULZ Vertiv Data Center Investors atNorth Borealis Data Center Verne KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED How big is the Iceland data center market? How much MW of power capacity will be added across Iceland during 2025-2030? What is the growth rate of the Iceland data center market? What factors are driving the Iceland data center market? Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 89 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $425 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $812 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 11.3% Regions Covered Iceland Key Topics Covered: 1. Existing & Upcoming Third-Party Data Centers in Iceland 1.1. Data Center Snapshot 1.2. Data Center Snapshot by Cities 1.3. Existing & Upcoming Data Center Supply in Iceland 1.4. List of Upcoming Data Center Projects in Iceland 2. Investment Opportunities in Iceland 2.1. Microeconomic & Macroeconomic Factors for Iceland Market 2.2. Impact of the Ongoing Tariff War 2.3. Investment Opportunities in Iceland 2.4. Digital Data in Iceland 2.5. Investment by Area 2.6. Investment by Power Capacity 3. Data Center Colocation Market in Iceland 3.1. Colocation Services Market in Iceland 4. Market Dynamics 4.1. Market Enablers 4.2. Market Trends 4.3. Market Restraints 5. Market Segmentation 5.1. IT Infrastructure: Market Size & Forecast 5.2. Electrical Infrastructure: Market Size & Forecast 5.3. Mechanical Infrastructure: Market Size & Forecast 5.4. General Construction: Market Size & Forecast 5.5. Tier Standard Investment 5.5.1. Tier I & II 5.5.2. Tier III 5.5.3. Tier IV 6. Key Market Participants 6.1. IT Infrastructure Providers 6.2. Construction Contractors & Sub-Contractors 6.3. Support Infrastructure Providers 6.4. Data Center Investors 7. Appendix 7.1. Market Derivation 7.2. Data Center Site Selection Criteria 7.3. Quantitative Summary For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/szxuzb About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment KIGALI, Rwanda and SAN FRANCISCO and AUBAGNE, France, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bio Usawa Biotechnology, Ltd. (Bio Usawa), a leading African biotechnology firm, and Sartorius Stedim Biotech, a global partner of biopharmaceutical manufacturing, have announced a partnership to accelerate Africas biopharmaceutical industry and address the continents urgent, dual health burdens in infectious and non-communicable diseases. This collaboration will focus on developing and manufacturing affordable, high-quality monoclonal antibodies in Sub-Saharan Africa to tackle oncology, diabetes-induced eye diseases, infectious diseases, and autoimmune conditions. The agreement will also cover joint initiatives in workforce development, process innovation, and technology transfer. "Africa is at a critical juncture in its health trajectory. We are battling a twin epidemic of infectious diseases and a rapidly rising burden of non-communicable diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Yet, lifesaving innovations often do not reach the continent due to high costs and late availability," said Dr. Menghis Bairu, CEO of Bio Usawa. "Our partnership with Sartorius Stedim Biotech is transformationalit allows us to bring advanced biomanufacturing technology to Africa, train a new generation of African scientists, and produce innovative biopharmaceuticals that are accessible and affordable for our people." The partnership includes the following core pillars: Research & Development: Sartorius Stedim Biotech will collaborate with Bio Usawa to develop state-of-the-art biosimilar cell lines tailored to therapeutic needs in Africa. Sartorius Stedim Biotech will collaborate with Bio Usawa to develop state-of-the-art biosimilar cell lines tailored to therapeutic needs in Africa. Workforce Capacity Building: The companies will jointly design and deliver training programs for the African biopharma workforce, nurturing local talent for long-term sustainability. The companies will jointly design and deliver training programs for the African biopharma workforce, nurturing local talent for long-term sustainability. Technology Enablement: Sartorius Stedim Biotech will supply state-of-the-art bioprocessing equipment, media, buffers, and consumables for both upstream and downstream (drug substance and fill-finish) manufacturing. Sartorius Stedim Biotech will supply state-of-the-art bioprocessing equipment, media, buffers, and consumables for both upstream and downstream (drug substance and fill-finish) manufacturing. Optimization: Sartorius Stedim Biotech will provide its deep expertise in process optimization, ensuring robust, scalable, cost-effective and compliant manufacturing processes. Sartorius Stedim Biotech will provide its deep expertise in process optimization, ensuring robust, scalable, cost-effective and compliant manufacturing processes. Analytical and QC Support: Sartorius Stedim Biotechs capabilities in analytical characterization and quality control testing will strengthen Bio Usawas product quality assurance framework. At Sartorius Stedim Biotech, we believe in enabling breakthroughs that improve human health, no matter where patients live, said Michaela Pischke, Head of Business Area Separation Technologies at Sartorius Stedim Biotech. Our partnership with Bio Usawa reflects a shared ambition: supporting biopharmaceutical supply in Africa from the ground up. Through this collaboration, we aim not only to support technical innovation but also to empower local talent and infrastructure development to ensure long-term, self-sustaining impact. With this partnership, Bio Usawa will leverage the extensive biotech product development, clinical trial, and regulatory expertise of its leadership team across both developed and developing markets to drive innovation tailored for Africa. This initiative represents a bold step forward in building Africas health sovereignty, delivering on the promise of equitable access to life-saving innovations and shaping the future of healthcare on the continent. About Bio Usawa Inc. Bio Usawa is Rwanda's leading biotechnology company dedicated to democratizing access to life-saving biopharmaceuticals across Africa. Founded on the principle that geographic location should not determine healthcare outcomes, the company specializes in developing and manufacturing affordable, high-quality monoclonal antibodies targeting cancer, diabetes complications, infectious diseases, and autoimmune conditions. Bio Usawa's leadership team brings decades of experience from leading global biotech companies and international regulatory agencies. For more information, visit: www.biousawa.com. About Sartorius Stedim Biotech Sartorius Stedim Biotech is a leading international partner to the biopharmaceutical industry. As a provider of innovative solutions, the company based in Aubagne, France, helps its customers to manufacture biotech medications, such as cell and gene therapies, more safely, rapidly, and sustainably. The shares of Sartorius Stedim Biotech S.A. are listed on the Euronext Paris. The company has a strong global reach with manufacturing and R&D sites as well as sales entities in Europe, North America, and Asia. Sartorius Stedim Biotech regularly expands its portfolio through acquisitions of complementary technologies. In 2024, the company generated sales revenue of around 2.8 billion euros. More than 9,900 employees work for customers around the globe. Visit our Newsroom or follow us on LinkedIn. Media Contacts: Contact Bio Usawa Daniel Levine Levine Media Group +1 510-280-5405 danny@levinemediagroup.com Contact Sartorius Stedim Biotech GmbH Lars Hanf Head of BPS Marketing Communications +491759558820 Lars.Hanf@Sartorius.com NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Class Action Attorney Juan Monteverde with Monteverde & Associates PC (the M&A Class Action Firm), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. The firm is headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and is investigating Breeze Holdings Acquisition Corp. (OTC: BRZH), relating to its proposed merger with YD Biopharma Limited. Under the terms of the agreement, all Breeze Holdings ordinary shares will be converted into the right to receive one ordinary share of the surviving company. Is it a fair deal? ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for August 14, 2025. Click here for more info https://monteverdelaw.com/case/breeze-holdings-acquisition-corp-2/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you. NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE EQUAL. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask: Do you file class actions and go to Court? When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders? What cases did you recover money in and how much? About Monteverde & Associates PC Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholdersand we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. No one is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341. Contact: Juan Monteverde, Esq. MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC The Empire State Building 350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740 New York, NY 10118 United States of America jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com Tel: (212) 971-1341 Washington, D.C., July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (WASHINGTON, DC) Today, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED), the Washington, DC Economic Partnership (WDCEP), and World Trade Center Dublin (WTC Dublin) announced a new collaboration to attract Irish businesses and companies by providing dedicated support through the Washington, DC Global Soft Landing program. Under Mayor Bowsers growth agenda, we are focused on creating new jobs and diversifying our economy. This collaboration with World Trade Center Dublin will allow us our efforts to attract new companies in high-growth industries to the District, said Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development Nina Albert. We know Washington, DC is the best place for international businesses to land in the United States, and we look forward to engaging with Irish businesses and partners to support them as they make their move. This collaboration will target the Districts high-growth industries, including technology, particularly AI, cybersecurity, and fintech subsectors; life sciences and healthtech; consulting services, communications and design, and education and research. Under the agreement, the organizations are committing to promoting the Washington, DC Global Soft Landing program to their network of companies, sharing referrals, providing support to participating companies, and collaborating on events and programming. The World Trade Center Dublin, Ireland, with the support of our sister WTC, the World Trade Center Washington, DC, is proud to position Washington, DC as a premier gateway for Irish companies seeking to expand into the U.S. market, said Maureen Pace, President of WTC Dublin. This powerful cross-border alliance ensures Irish innovators receive unrivaled access to essential resources, influential networks, and steadfast support, equipping them to not only succeed but also dominate in one of the worlds most competitive markets. The Washington DC Economic Partnership, with the support of the World Trade Center Dublin team, attended our first Dublin Tech Summit this year. We saw firsthand the incredible opportunity for Irish companies to build on their success at home and start their U.S. expansion in the nation's capital, said Derek Ford, President and CEO of WDCEP. The Washington, DC Global Soft Landing program reduces rent costs, provides visa support, and makes key connections in to the DC business community to ensure business hit the ground running. We cant wait to welcome more Irish companies to Washington, DC. Washington, DC Global Soft Landing creates a pathway for international start-ups and companies to enter and grow in the DC market by providing tailored support to international companies, including real estate, visa, business services, and networking offered through a network of economic development partners. DMPED and WDCEP have engaged several organizations to promote Global Soft Landing to their networks and build a pipeline of companies. Washington, DC Global Soft Landing is a collaborative effort between DMPED, WDCEP, the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District, the Penn West Equity and Innovation District, George Washington University, and The Build Fellowship by Open Avenues. Supporting partners include the Federal City Council, the DC Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the Greater Washington Black Chamber of Commerce. ### About DMPED The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) assists the Mayor in the coordination, planning, supervision, and execution of economic development efforts in the District of Columbia with the goal of creating and preserving affordable housing, creating jobs, and increasing tax revenue. DMPED pursues policies and programs that create strong neighborhoods, expand and diversify the local economy, and provide residents with pathways to the middle class. About WDCEP The Washington DC Economic Partnership (WDCEP) is a nonprofit, public-private partnership at the core of economic development in the U.S. capital, Washington, DC. WDCEP supports companies by providing site selection assistance, customized market research and community tours, and navigation of financial resources to support investment into Washington, DC. About WTC Dublin | A Drew Company Drew Company is a real estate development firm with offices in Washington, D.C., Dublin, Ireland, Atlanta, and Boston. As part of its diverse business portfolio, it holds World Trade Center licenses for Dublin, Washington, D.C., and Boston. With a longstanding leadership role within the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) since its inception, Drew Company has been instrumental in driving economic growth across the regions it serves, facilitating thousands of meaningful global connections. At the heart of World Trade Center Dublin (WTC Dublin) is a commitment to advancing trade and expanding business opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking international growth. As a distinguished member of the WTCA, WTC Dublin provides access to a network of 300 World Trade Centers across 100 countries, collectively representing partnerships with over 1 million organizations. This extensive global ecosystem fosters business development and economic prosperity worldwide. WTC Dublin closely collaborates with sister World Trade Centers including World Trade Center Washington, DC (WTCDC) at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, which has been managed by Trade Center Management Associates (TCMA), a subsidiary of the Drew Company, in partnership with the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) for over 25 years. 2025 H1 Results Press release - Paris, July 29th, 2025 Continued growth supported by America and EMEA regions EBIT margin more than doubled Record free-cash flow generation and significant reduction of Net Debt 2025 H1 Sales at 601.1m, increasing by +3.0% on an organic 1 basis vs. 2024 H1 Sales (585.3m) Growth in all regions, excluding APAC which remains impacted by 2024 network optimisation strategy Like-for-like network revenue increases by +2.8%; the trend is stabilizing in B&M stores in China Q2 2025 Sales amount to 304.5m, +3.3% organic vs Q2 2024 Sales (298.4m) Strict full-price strategy continues, with a three-point decrease of average in-season discount rate vs H1 2024 increasing by +3.0% on an organic basis vs. 2024 H1 Sales (585.3m) Adjusted EBIT more than doubled compared to H1 2024 , both in absolute value (42.6m , from 18.8m in H1 2024) and in percentage of sales (7.1%, vs 3.2% in H1 2024) , both in absolute value (42.6m from 18.8m in H1 2024) and in percentage of sales (7.1%, vs 3.2% in H1 2024) Positive Net Income at 11.0m , vs -27.7m in H1 2024 at , vs -27.7m in H1 2024 Strict financial discipline: the combination of a tight management of inventories (-13% vs H1 2024) and of the improvement in operational performance results in record free-cash flow generation for a first semester (33.1m), leading to a significant reduction in net debt, to reach 205.6m (Net debt/EBITDA ratio at 1.9x) the combination of a tight management of inventories (-13% vs H1 2024) and of the improvement in operational performance results in record for a first semester (33.1m), leading to a significant reduction in net debt, to reach 205.6m (Net debt/EBITDA ratio at 1.9x) Network at 1,642 POS at end of June: 20 net closings in H1, coming from retail network Dynamic expansion through partners in existing and new countries at end of June: Commenting on those results, Isabelle Guichot, CEO of SMCP, stated: The first half of 2025 was marked by solid commercial performance across most of our markets, particularly in Europe and America. This momentum rewards the work done by the teams to enhance the desirability of our brands and the continued focus on our full-price strategy. The initiatives launched in 2024 (optimization of our network notably in China and strict cost control) are now bearing fruit, and resulted in an adjusted EBIT margin more than doubling in the first half. This financial discipline has also translated into record cash flow generation and a significant reduction of net debt. We enter the second half of the year determined to sustain this positive trajectory and continue to enhance the visibility of our brands worldwide, despite an environment that remains challenging. FINANCIAL INDICATORS m H1 2024 H1 2025 Reported change Sales 585.3 601.1 +2.7% Adjusted EBITDA 98.5 112.0 +13.8% Adjusted EBIT 18.8 42.6 +126.7% Net Income -27.7 11.0 +38.7m FCF -8.8 33,1 +41.9m Net Debt 292.5 205.6 -30% SALES m Q2 2024 Q2 2025 Organic change Reported change H1 2024 H1 2025 Organic change Reported change Sales by region France 104.3 104.9 +0.6% +0.6% 202.5 207.0 +2.3% +2.3% EMEA ex. France 102.4 106.0 +3.0% +3.5% 191.8 204.0 +5.9% +6.3% America 42.8 49.6 +21.6% +16.0% 84.8 93.5 +11.9% +10.3% Asia Pacific 48.9 43.9 -6.2% -10.3% 106.2 96.6 -8.0% -9.0% Sales by brand Sandro 151.9 154.7 +3.3% +1.8% 292.3 302.2 +3.7% +3.4% Maje 109.9 113.6 +4.9% +3.4% 218.8 224.3 +2.9% +2.5% Other brands2 36.6 36.2 -1.4% -1.3% 74.1 74.6 +0.5% +0.6% TOTAL 298.4 304.5 +3.3% +2.0% 585.3 601.1 +3.0% +2.7% SALES BREAKDOWN BY REGION In France, sales reach 207m in H1, an organic increase of +2.3% compared to H1 2024. Like-for-like network is growing both in B&M and in digital, reflecting a good momentum across all channels. This favourable trend continued to be supported by a rigorous full-price strategy, especially for Maje and Claudie Pierlot. Q2 sales amount to 105m, stable compared to Q2 2024, which represented a high basis of comparison (Q2 2024: +6.5% versus Q2 2023). The Group continues its network optimisation strategy, with 16 net closings in H1, notably for Claudie Pierlot. EMEA revenue, at 204m in H1, increases by +5.9% organic compared to H1 2024, driven by like-for-like growth (+6.0%), which is positive in nearly all retail markets, and by wholesale performance. The execution of our full-price strategy continues. The trend in the second quarter (+3.0% vs Q2 2024) is comparable to Q1 in retail; wholesale revenue is impacted by a timing effect between Q1 and Q2. The network recorded a net growth of 19 points of sale during the semester, mainly due to partners openings, notably in new countries such as the Balkans and Jordan. In America, sales reach 94m in H1, an organic increase of +11.9% compared to H1 2024 (of which +21.6% in Q2), driven by price increases (US), higher volumes and by the success of openings in 2024. Average discount rate remains stable compared to last year in a competitive and promotional market. All three countries of the region grow, in retail (positive like-for-like sales in both the United States and Canada) and via partners (robust growth in Mexico). Such performance is achieved despite a decline of 25 points of sale in the network over the semester, due to the closure of Hudsons Bay corners in Canada, which are expected to be replaced by a new local partnership. APAC revenue, at 97m in H1, decreases by -8.0% vs H1 2024 on an organic basis. As anticipated, the decline is linked to the full-year effect of the network optimization in China (65 net closures in 2024). However, like-for-like sales trend is stabilizing in B&M in the first half of the year. In the rest of the region, several markets have shown good resilience (Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand), India, Indonesia and Philippines are off to a promising start. In South Korea, the Group is in the process of changing its distribution partner at the term of the current agreement, with no material impact expected on the continuity of operations. The network is slightly expanding, with two net openings. 2025 H1 CONSOLIDATED RESULTS Adjusted EBITDA reaches 112m in H1 2025 (Adjusted EBITDA margin of 19% of sales), compared with 98m in H1 2024 (17% of sales). Management gross margin ratio (74.3%) is stable compared to H1 2024 (74.3%). The increase of gross margin ratio in Retail, supported by a strict full-price strategy (-3 pts of discount rate vs H1 2024), is compensated by a negative mix channel effect (increasing weight of sales through partners, in line with the Groups strategy). Total Opex (store costs4F4F3 and general and administrative expenses) are decreasing, supported by cost optimization initiatives. This decrease is largely due to the closure of retail locations in China and the streamlining of general expenses at Group level. Thanks to the increase of Revenue, Opex are also better absorbed. Depreciation and amortization amount to -69m in H1 2025, decreasing vs H1 2024 (-80m). Excluding IFRS 16, depreciation and amortization represent 3% of sales in H1 2025 (4% in H1 2024). This evolution is partly explained by the non-recurrence of 2024 one-offs in connection with store closures. As a result, adjusted EBIT reaches 43m in H1 2025, compared with 19m in H1 2024. Adjusted EBIT margin is 7.1% in H1 2025 (3.2% in 2023). Other non-current expenses stand at -8m, decreasing compared to H1 2024 (-30m); they include stores and goodwill impairment, with no effect on cash. Financial expenses reach -15m in H1 2025 vs -18M in H1 2024 (including -7m of interests on rental debt, in line with H1 2024). Thanks to a lower average bank debt, the related interest expenses reduce (-7m in H1 2025 vs -9m in H1 2024). Taking into account an income tax expense of -6m in H1 2025 (vs +3m in H1 2024), Net income - Group share is a profit of 11m (vs a loss of -28m in H1 2024). 2025 H1 BALANCE SHEET AND NET FINANCIAL DEBT The Group maintained a strict control over its inventories and investments. Inventories went down by -13%, from 263m as of June 30th, 2024, to 229m as of June 30th, 2025. Capex investments as a percentage of sales represented 3% of sales in H1 2025 (4% in H1 2024). Net financial debt was significantly down, at 206m as of June 30th, 2025, vs 293m as of June 30th, 2024, and 237m as of December 31st, 2024. Net debt/EBITDA ratio stands at 1.9x. Term Loan and Revolving Credit Facility (RCF) were extended from May 2026 to May 2027 for 57 million (out of 75 million) and 155 million (out of 200 million), respectively. CONCLUSION Thanks to a good dynamic in sales in the first half, supported by the activity in America and like-for-like growth enabling better cost absorption, the Group is demonstrating the relevance of its strategic choices. The action plans implemented are bearing fruit, resulting in an improvement in the EBIT margin, in line with the targets set for the second half of 2026. The Groups strict financial discipline has led to a record generation of free cash flow for a first semester and a significant reduction in net debt and the debt ratio - reflecting the strength of the trajectory. In an external environment still uncertain and challenging, the Group remains fully committed to executing its action plans, focusing both on revenue growth and cost control, with the ambition of confirming in the second half the positive momentum observed in the first half. OTHER INFORMATION Consolidated accounts approvement The Board of Directors held a meeting today and approved the consolidated accounts for the first half of 2025. The limited review procedures have been completed by the auditors, and the related report is being issued. Update on the proceedings in relation to the transfer of a 15.5% SMCP Stake in 2021 SMCP has been informed that the Singapore High Court decided on July 4th to order Dynamic Treasure Group Ltd (DTG) to return to European Topsoho S.a r.l. (ETS) the 15.5% stake of SMCP which had been transferred in 2021. DTG had to comply with this order within one week following notification (notification having been completed on July 8th). SMCP understands that DTG did not comply with this order in the required timeframe, and that Glas has therefore initiated forced transfer procedures. The order remains subject to potential appeal (within one month following notification date). SMCP will keep the market informed about the effective completion of the return of this stake to ETS. FINANCIAL CALENDAR October 23th, 2025 Q3 Sales publication A conference call and a webcast with investors and analysts will be held today by CEO Isabelle Guichot and CFO Patricia Huyghues Despointes, from 6:00 p.m. (Paris time). Related slides will also be available on the website (www.smcp.com), in the Finance section. FINANCIAL INDICATORS NOT DEFINED IN IFRS The Group uses certain key financial and non-financial measures to analyze the performance of its business. The principal performance indicators used include the number of its points of sale, like-for-like sales growth, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin, Adjusted EBIT and Adjusted EBIT margin. Number of points of sale The number of the Groups points of sale comprises total retail points of sale open at the relevant date, which includes (i) directly-operated stores, including free-standing stores, concessions in department stores, affiliate-operated stores, factory outlets and online stores, and (ii) partnered retail points of sale. Organic sales growth Organic sales growth refers to the performance of the Group at constant currency and scope, i.e. excluding the acquisition of Fursac. Like-for-like sales growth Like-for-like sales growth corresponds to retail sales from directly operated points of sale on a like-for-like basis in a given period compared with the same period in the previous year, expressed as a percentage change between the two periods. Like-for-like points of sale for a given period include all of the Groups points of sale that were open at the beginning of the previous period and exclude points of sale closed during the period, including points of sale closed for renovation for more than one month, as well as points of sale that changed their activity (for example, Sandro points of sale changing from Sandro Femme to Sandro Homme or to a mixed Sandro Femme and Sandro Homme store). Like-for-like sales growth percentage is presented at constant exchange rates (sales for year N and year N-1 in foreign currencies are converted at the average N-1 rate, as presented in the annexes to the Group's consolidated financial statements as of December 31 for the year N in question). Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA margin Adjusted EBITDA is defined by the Group as operating income before depreciation, amortization, provisions, and charges related to share-based long-term incentive plans (LTIP). Consequently, Adjusted EBITDA corresponds to EBITDA before charges related to LTIP. Adjusted EBITDA is not a standardized accounting measure that meets a single generally accepted definition. It must not be considered as a substitute for operating income, net income, cash flow from operating activities, or as a measure of liquidity. Adjusted EBITDA margin corresponds to adjusted EBITDA divided by net sales. Adjusted EBIT and adjusted EBIT margin Adjusted EBIT is defined by the Group as earning before interests, taxes, and charges related to share-based long-term incentive plans (LTIP). Consequently, Adjusted EBIT corresponds to EBIT before charges related to LTIP. Adjusted EBIT margin corresponds to Adjusted EBIT divided by net sales. Management Gross margin Management gross margin corresponds to the sales after deducting rebates and cost of sales only. The accounting gross margin (as appearing in the accounts) corresponds to the sales after deducting the rebates, the cost of sales and the commissions paid to the department stores and affiliates. Retail Margin Retail margin corresponds to the management gross margin after taking into account the points of sales direct expenses such as rent, personnel costs, commissions paid to the department stores and other operating costs. Net financial debt Net financial debt represents the net financial debt portion bearing interest. It corresponds to current and non-current financial debt, net of cash and cash equivalents and net of current bank overdrafts. METHODOLOGY NOTE Unless otherwise indicated, amounts are expressed in millions of euros and rounded to the first digit after the decimal point. In general, figures presented in this press release are rounded to the nearest full unit. As a result, the sum of rounded amounts may show non-material differences with the total as reported. Note that ratios and differences are calculated based on underlying amounts and not based on rounded amounts. DISCLAIMER: FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain information contained in this document includes projections and forecasts. These projections and forecasts are based on SMCP management's current views and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance of the Group. Actual results or performances may differ materially from those in such projections and forecasts as a result of numerous factors, risks and uncertainties, including the impact of the current COVID-19 outbreak. These risks and uncertainties include those discussed or identified under Chapter 2 Risk factors and internal control of the Companys Universal Registration Document filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorite des Marches Financiers - AMF) on 16 April 2025 and available on SMCP's website (www.smcp.com). This document has not been independently verified. SMCP makes no representation or undertaking as to the accuracy or completeness of such information. None of the SMCP or any of its affiliates representatives shall bear any liability (in negligence or otherwise) for any loss arising from any use of this document or its contents or otherwise arising in connection with this document. APPENDICES Breakdown of point of sales by region Number of DOS H1-24 FY-24 Q1-25 H1-25 Q2-25 variation H1-25 variation Par region France 473 473 464 457 -7 -16 EMEA 410 395 387 394 +7 -1 Amerique 177 178 162 162 - -16 Asie Pacifique 304 247 245 242 -3 -5 Par marque Sandro 586 564 550 547 -3 -17 Maje 488 468 454 456 +2 -12 Claudie Pierlot 209 185 177 176 -1 -9 Fursac 81 76 77 76 -1 - Total DOS 1,364 1,293 1,258 1,255 -3 -38 Number of POS H1-24 FY-24 Q1-25 H1-25 Q2-25 variation H1-25 variation Par region France 475 473 464 457 -7 -16 EMEA 546 536 541 555 +14 +19 Amerique 221 226 206 201 -5 -25 Asie Pacific 459 427 429 429 - +2 Par marque Sandro 764 755 751 749 -2 -6 Maje 628 621 614 622 +8 +1 Claudie Pierlot 226 209 197 193 -4 -16 Fursac 83 77 78 78 - +1 Total POS 1,701 1,662 1,640 1,642 +2 -20 o/w partners 360 369 382 387 +5 +18 CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS INCOME STATEMENT (M) H1 2024 H1 2025 Sales 585.3 601.1 Cost of sales -215.8 -220.1 Gross margin 369.5 381.0 Other operating income and expenses -127.8 -123.3 Personnel costs -143.3 -145.7 Depreciation, amortization, and impairment -79.7 -69.4 Share-based Long-Term Incentive Plan -0.9 -1.8 Current operating income 17.8 40.8 Other non-current income and expenses -30.4 -8.2 Operating profit -12.6 32.6 Financial income and expenses -1.2 -0.4 Cost of net debt -16.5 -14.7 Financial income -17.7 -15.1 Profit/(loss) before tax -30.3 17.5 Income tax expense 2.6 -6.6 Net profit/(loss) for the period -27.7 11.0 Basic Group share of net earnings per share (EUR) -0.37 0.14 Diluted Group share of net earnings per share (EUR) -0.37 0.14 BALANCE SHEET - ASSETS (m) As of Dec 31, 2024 As of Jun 30, 2025 Goodwill 604.3 599.9 Trademarks, other intangible & right-of-use assets 1,139.1 1 089.3 Property, plant and equipment 79.7 66.5 Non-current financial assets 16.8 15.2 Deferred tax assets 29.6 25.7 Non-current assets 1,869.6 1 796.7 Inventories and work in progress 260.2 229.1 Accounts receivables 69.0 64.3 Other receivables 50.8 45.5 Cash and cash equivalents 48.5 43.7 Current assets 428.5 382.6 Total assets 2,298.1 2 179.3 BALANCE SHEET - EQUITY & LIABILITIES (m) As of Dec 31, 2024 As of Jun 30, 2025 Total Equity 1,163.1 1 166.7 Non-current lease liabilities 343.5 301.6 Non-current financial debt 158.7 92.2 Other financial liabilities 0.6 0.6 Provisions and other non-current liabilities 4.9 4.5 Net employee defined benefit liabilities 4.6 4.8 Deferred tax liabilities 163.9 164.1 Non-current liabilities 676.2 567.8 Trade and other payables 143.4 114.5 Current lease liabilities 100.7 93.3 Bank overdrafts and short-term financial borrowings and debt 126.4 156.5 Short-term provisions 1.6 1.3 Other current liabilities 86.7 79.2 Current liabilities 458.8 444.8 Total Equity & Liabilities 2,298.1 2 179.3 CASH FLOW STATEMENT (m) H1 2024 published H1 2024 restated H1 2025 Cash from operations before changes in working capital 101.6 97.8 110.8 Changes in working capital -4.5 -3.9 5.6 Income tax expense -3.7 -3.7 2.3 Net cash flow from operating activities * 93.4 90.3 118.7 Capital expenditure -24.1 -24.1 -16.7 Others 0.0 - - Net cash flow from investing activities * -24.0 -24.1 -16.7 Treasury shares purchase program -1.3 Change in borrowings and debt -37.7 -37.7 -38.8 Net interests paid -11.7 -11.7 -7.2 Other financial income and expenses -0.7 -0.7 -0.3 Reimbursement of rent lease -66.2 -63.0 -59.6 Net cash flow from financing activities -116.3 -113.1 -107.2 Net foreign exchange difference 0.3 0.3 -1.7 Change in net cash -46.6 -46.6 -6.9 * Change in the presentation of proceeds from asset disposals Reconciliation entre indicateurs de performance operationnelle comptable et de gestion GROSS MARGIN (m) excluding IFRS 16 H1 2024 H1 2025 Gross margin (as appearing in the accounts) 374.2 381.0 Readjustment of the commissions and other adjustments 60.6 65.8 Management Gross margin 435.0 446.8 Direct costs of point of sales -274.8 -271.8 Retail margin 160.3 175.0 OPERATING PROFIT (m) H1 2024 H1 2025 Adjusted EBITDA 98.5 112.0 Depreciation. amortization. and impairment -79.7 -69.4 Adjusted EBIT 18.8 42.6 Allocation of LTIP -0.9 -1.8 EBIT 17.8 40.8 Other non-recurring income and expenses -30.4 -8.2 OPERATING PROFIT -12.6 32.6 FCF (m) H1 2024 published H1 2024 restated H1 2025 Cash from operations before changes in working capital 101.6 97.8 110.8 Change in working capital -4.5 -3.9 5.6 Income tax -3.7 -3.7 2.3 Net cash flow from operating activities * 93.4 90.3 118.7 Capital expenditure (operating and financial) -24.1 -24.1 -16.7 Reimbursement of rent lease -66.2 -63.0 -59.6 Interest & Other financial -12.4 -12.4 -7.6 Other & FX 0.3 0.3 -1.7 Free cash-flow -8.8 -8.8 33.1 * Change in the presentation of proceeds from asset disposals NET FINANCIAL DEBT (m) As of Dec 31. 2024 As of Jun 30, 2025 Non-current financial debt & other financial liabilities -159.3 -92.8 Bank overdrafts and short-term financial liability -126.4 -156.5 Cash and cash equivalents 48.5 43.7 Net financial debt -237.2 -205.6 adjusted EBITDA (excl. IFRS) 12 months 92.2 108.4 Net financial debt / adjusted EBITDA 2.57x 1.90x ABOUT SMCP SMCP is a global leader in the accessible luxury market with four unique Parisian brands: Sandro. Maje. Claudie Pierlot and Fursac. Present in 55 countries. the Group led by Isabelle Guichot as CEO, comprises a network of over 1.600 stores globally and a strong digital presence in all its key markets. Evelyne Chetrite and Judith Milgrom founded Sandro and Maje in Paris. in 1984 and 1998 respectively. and continue to provide creative direction for the brands. Claudie Pierlot and Fursac were respectively acquired by SMCP in 2009 and 2019. SMCP is listed on the Euronext Paris regulated market (compartment A. ISIN Code FR0013214145. ticker: SMCP). CONTACTS INVESTORS/PRESS SMCP BRUNSWICK Amelie Dernis +33 (0) 1 55 80 51 00 Hugues Boeton +33 6 79 99 27 15 amelie.dernis@smcp.com Tristan Roquet Montegon +33 6 37 00 52 57 smcp@brunswickgroup.com 1 Organic growth | All references in this document to the organic sales performance refer to the performance of the Group at constant currency and scope 2Claudie Pierlot et Fursac 3 Excluding IFRS 16 Attachment Press Release Montrouge, 29 July 2025 Credit Agricole Sante & Territoires completes the acquisition of Petits-fils, the leading provider of at-home services for seniors in France Following the agreement announced on June 12, 2025, and after receiving approval from the French Competition Authority, Credit Agricole Sante & Territoires announces it has completed the acquisition of Petits-fils, the leading provider of at-home services for seniors in France, from Clariane. With the acquisition of Petits-fils, which operates a nationwide franchise network comprising over 290 branches, Credit Agricole Sante & Territoires has reached a key milestone in the development of its services supporting wellbeing in aging. Drawing on its mutualist DNA, Credit Agricole seeks to support French society as it adapts to the demographic transition by addressing the growing needs related to the aging of the population. Through Credit Agricole Sante & Territoires, Credit Agricole group aims to provide tangible solutions across Frances regions, promoting aging-in-place where possible. The acquisition of Petits-fils supports this strategy. Pierre Guillocheau, Chief Executive Officer of Credit Agricole Sante & Territoires, commented: "We are very pleased to welcome Petits-fils and its team to Credit Agricole Sante & Territoires. Together we look forward to accelerating the growth of Petit-fils and expanding its footprint by leveraging the Credit Agricole groups extensive local networks." Pursuant to the agreement signed with Clariane, Petits-fils was sold to Credit Agricole Sante & Territoires for an equity value of approximately 243 million euros. The impact of the transaction on the CET1 ratio of Credit Agricole S.A. and the Credit Agricole Group is limited. About Credit Agricole Sante & Territoires A subsidiary of the Credit Agricole group, Credit Agricole Sante & Territoires is dedicated to structuring and expanding the group's service offering in the healthcare sector. It provides pragmatic solutions to two major societal challenges: Improving access to healthcare across Frances regions, aligned with care pathway strategies and territorial healthcare frameworks (e.g., development of telemedicine, support for new medical practice models, deployment of healthcare facilities in underserved areas, etc.) Supporting the ageing population, through both at-home services and non-medical housing solutions. About Petits-fils Founded in 2007, Petits-fils is now the largest French provider of at-home services to the elderly in France. With over 290 branches primarily franchised and employing more than 11,000 care workers Petits-fils provided services to nearly 39,000 individuals in 2024. Press Contacts Credit Agricole S.A. Olivier Tassain : olivier.tassain@credit-agricole-sa.fr - +33 6 75 90 26 66 Mathilde Durand : mathilde.durand@credit-agricole-sa.fr - +33 6 25 94 01 98 All our press releases are available at: www.credit-agricole.com @Credit_Agricole Groupe Credit Agricole Credit Agricole Attachment DUBLIN and NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EllaLink, the owner of a high-capacity optic-fibre submarine cable directly connecting Europe and Latin America, and the Ministere de la Transformation Numerique et de la Modernisation de lAdministration (MTNMA) of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania have signed a contract for the construction, operation and maintenance of a second international link that will directly connect the country to Madrid, Spain. The new diverse infrastructure will provide Mauritania with direct cost-effective international connectivity up to European main exchanges. The project includes the construction of a Cable Landing Station in Nouadhibou, the second largest city of Mauritania and a +500km branch connected to existing EllaLinks subsea cable system. Alcatel Submarine Networks has been selected to build the subsea section which will include two fibre pairs and use state-of-the-art optical technologies such as a ROADM WSS branching unit. EllaLink will be also in charge of the operation & maintenance of this new infrastructure. Representation of the EllaLink network map with the identification of the Mauritania Country area The construction has started, and the infrastructure is projected to be ready for service early 2027. The new infrastructure will deliver to the national operators an initial 200Gbps low latency direct circuit between the new cable landing station of Nouadhibou and EllaLinks Point of Presence in Madrid. This new diverse submarine cable will reinforce the Mauritanian international connectivity reducing the risk of disruption of the Mauritanian economy and supporting the digital transformation of the country with capacity set to grow for the next 25 years. The project is supported by the European Investment Bank and by the CEF Digital program of the European Commission. EllaLink's new connection in Mauritania confirms the companys strategy to expand connectivity across geographies along its transatlantic route. Philippe Dumont, CEO of EllaLink, expressed enthusiasm about this achievement: "We are proud to support Mauritanias vision of advancing its digital economy. This cutting-edge connection will not only strengthen Mauritanias international network but also offer direct, cost-effective access to key internet exchanges in Europe." About EllaLink EllaLink is a privately funded and independent company committed to providing products and services on a Carrier Neutral and Open Access basis. The EllaLink submarine cable system is an advanced optical platform offering secure high-capacity connectivity on a unique low latency transatlantic route serving the growing needs of the Latin American and European markets. The EllaLink network directly connects Brazil and Europe, linking the major hubs of Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Fortaleza with Lisbon, Madrid and Marseille. The EllaLink submarine cable system has been built with state-of-the-art coherent technology initially offering 100Tbps of capacity over four direct fibre pairs between Europe and Brazil. Marguerite II, a pan-European equity fund active in the renewables, energy, transport and digital infrastructure sectors, is the main shareholder of EllaLink. For more information visit ella.link. For additional information Clara Casanova Ferreira clara.casanova@ella.link Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/140d42f0-3617-421e-bb21-ca95e401b865 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/40788cab-fc22-4cc8-b67d-9b9957c9081f NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kuehn Law, PLLC, a shareholder litigation law firm, is investigating whether certain officers and directors of West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (NYSE: WST) breached their fiduciary duties to shareholders. According to a federal securities lawsuit, Insiders at West Pharmaceutical caused the company to misrepresent or fail to disclose that (a) despite claiming strong visibility into customer demand and attributing headwinds to temporary COVID-related product destocking, West was in fact experiencing significant and ongoing destocking across its high-margin High-Value Products portfolio; (b) Wests SmartDose device, which was purportedly positioned as a high-margin growth product, was highly dilutive to the Companys profit margins due to operational inefficiencies; (c) these margin pressures created the risk of costly restructuring activities, including the Companys exit from continuous glucose monitoring contracts with long-standing customers; and (d) as a result of the foregoing, positive statements about the Companys business, operations, and prospects were materially false and/or misleading or lacked a reasonable basis. If you currently own WST and purchased prior to February 16, 2023 please contact Justin Kuehn, Esq. here, by email at justin@kuehn.law or call (833) 672-0814. Kuehn Law pays all case costs and does not charge its investor clients. Shareholders should contact the firm immediately as there may be limited time to enforce your rights. Why Your Participation Matters: As a shareholder your voice matters, and by getting involved, you contribute to the integrity and fairness of the financial markets. Your investment. Your voice. Your future. For additional information, please visit Shareholder Derivative Litigation - Kuehn Law. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Contacts: Kuehn Law, PLLC Justin Kuehn, Esq. 53 Hill Street, Suite 605 Southampton, NY 11968 justin@kuehn.law (833) 672-0814 LAKEVIEW, Ore., July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Eco Material Technologies ("Eco Material" or the "Company"), the leading marketer of supplementary cementitious materials ("SCMs") and producer of green cement products in North America, announced today the grand opening of its brand-new Lakeview Plant in southern Oregon. This milestone marks Eco Materials first sustainably-built manufacturing hub in the Pacific Northwest. Strategically adjacent to Lake County's freight rail line, the Lakeview Plant is engineered to produce up to 300,000 tons per year of lowcarbon cement replacements annually. By replacing 25100% of traditional portland cement in concrete mixes with Eco Materials advanced Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) and proprietary green cement blends, producers can reduce the carbon footprint of the cement portion of their concrete by up to 80%the component responsible for the majority of embodied CO in typical concrete formulations. The opening of the Lakeview Plant demonstrates our commitment to sustainable innovation and marks a significant step forward in expanding access to domestically produced, lowcarbon cement alternatives, said Grant Quasha, CEO of Eco Material Technologies. We're thrilled to be able to serve the Pacific Northwest with economically competitive products that support infrastructure growth while reducing carbon emissions. The Lakeview facility is expected to create 30 permanent jobs, including skilled manufacturing roles and logistics positions in a historically underserved region. Approximately 75% of shipments will be distributed by rail using existing infrastructure. This facility represents more than just a new plantits a powerful investment in Lake Countys future, said Mark Albertson, Lake County Commissioner. By pairing advanced, low-carbon building materials with local job creation and infrastructure development, Eco Material Technologies is bringing both economic vitality and environmental responsibility to our community. Were proud to welcome this transformative project while creating a great partnership to benefit all of Lake County. The facility rollout continues Eco Material's national expansion, including a recently opened terminal in Queens supplying 50,000 tons of harvested fly ash annually to the New York City metro market. With the Lakeview Plant coming online, the company is on track to deliver more than 10 million tons of environmentally beneficial materials per year across 40 metro areas in North America. A grand opening celebration is scheduled for Tuesday, July 29, 2025. More information on the event and Lakeview Plant can be found at ecomaterial.com . About Eco Material Technologies Eco Material is the leading producer, marketer and distributor of ash-based SCM products in North America. Eco Material is also the leading environmentally focused, near-zero carbon cement producer in the United States. SCMs are the most impactful, environmentally friendly alternative materials to portland cement that significantly reduce the CO2 footprint and improve the performance and longevity of cement's end-product, concrete. Coal ash and natural pozzolans are used to replace a portion of carbon intensive portland cement in concrete and can be further upgraded to its higher performance Green Cement products by the Company. Eco Material also supplies services to electric utilities related to management of coal ash and other coal combustion products and recycles over 10 million tons per year of material into beneficial use - reducing emissions and avoiding landfilling of material. Media Contact: Francesca DeMauro / Michael Ganci ecomaterial@kcsa.com 516-524-4426 TORONTO, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Pacific Reach and Dilawri Group of Companies (Dilawri) announced their acquisition of The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, one of Canada's most iconic and prestigious hotels. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, The Ritz-Carlton has been synonymous with luxury and impeccable service since its opening in 2011. This acquisition marks a significant milestone for Pacific Reach and Dilawri, showcasing their shared dedication to elevating Canadas hospitality space. The transaction represents the new owners shared vision for the propertys bright future. As equal partners, Pacific Reach will take on the role of asset-manager and work closely with Dilawri to elevate an already exceptional luxury hotel. Marriott International will continue to manage the hotel under The Ritz-Carlton brand without disruption to operations. We are thrilled to acquire The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto and leverage our years of experience owning and operating luxury hospitality assets, including the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, to build on the exceptional reputation of The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, says Azim Jamal, CEO and Founder of Pacific Reach. This partnership with Dilawri represents our shared vision of excellence, as we take steps to further enrich the guest experience and continue the Ritz-Carltons legacy as one of the most prestigious luxury hotels in Canada. This acquisition reflects the confidence Pacific Reach and Dilawri have in Torontos role as a thriving hub for luxury, business, and culture. With this partnership, The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto is poised to continue its legacy as one of Canadas most prestigious hotels, while entering an exciting new era of growth and innovation. The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto is a true luxury landmark in the heart of downtown, says Kap Dilawri, Co-Founder of Dilawri. We are proud to help steward this iconic property and remain committed to honouring its legacy while ensuring it continues to thrive as a cornerstone of Torontos luxury and hospitality landscape. This acquisition also marks an exciting milestone in our dedicated investment division, as we expand our portfolio focused on real estate and strategic, diversified holdings. Planned enhancements to the property will include updates to the spa and wellness amenities, common areas, and conferencing spaces. These upgrades aim to evolve the already exceptional Ritz-Carlton experience, ensuring it continues to exceed the expectations of both leisure and business guests alike. A team led by Josh Sprague at Norton Rose Fulbright LLP acted as legal advisor to Pacific Reach. Farris LLP, led by Duncan Reid, acted as legal advisor to Dilawri. KPMG LLP served as tax advisor to the partnership. CBRE acted as advisor to the vendor. To learn more about Pacific Reach, Dilawri, and The Ritz-Carlton Toronto, visit Pacific Reach , Dilawri and The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto . About Pacific Reach Pacific Reach is a diversified and vertically-integrated multi-strategy investment firm with actively managed investments in real estate, capital markets and alternatives with an emphasis in real estate. With more than 35 years of experience acquiring, developing, and managing hotel, multifamily, and commercial properties throughout North America, Pacific Reach invests in and develops premier real estate. Pacific Reach has established a successful capital markets division with actively managed investments in listed securities, private equity and alternative assets and is growing a presence as an asset manager across strategies. Pacific Reach is based in Vancouver with a presence throughout North America. The Jamal Family Foundation is a proud supporter of the communities in which it operates and is honoured to contribute to outstanding organizations including the Aga Khan Foundation, Lions Gate Hospital Foundation, and the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation. About Dilawri Privately owned and operated since 1984, Dilawri continues to build on its legacy as Canadas largest automotive group. While its roots are firmly planted in automotive retail, Dilawri has expanded its portfolio through a dedicated investment division with strategic interests in real estate and a range of diversified holdings. Dilawri is equally committed to leadership in the communities it serves. Through the Dilawri Foundation, established in 2002, the company has contributed millions of dollars to a wide range of charitable causes. To learn more about Dilawri, visit dilawri.ca . For Media Inquiries, Contact: Chicago, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Responding to the overwhelming popularity of its ADHD tutoring services in Chicago, Chicago Home Tutor has expanded availability to include additional evening and weekend timeslots throughout the summer and into the 202526 school year. The new scheduling options aim to better accommodate busy families seeking high-quality, personalized tutoring support for students with ADHD across Chicago, including the North Shore and surrounding suburbs. Known for its individualized, evidence-based approach, Chicago Home Tutor has seen a steady rise in demand for ADHD-focused tutoring in Chicago over the years. The company aims to ensure that every family has access to private tutors when they need them most. "We understand that many families juggle packed schedules, and that students with ADHD often benefit from learning when they're most alert and focused," said Joseph Hopper, President of Chicago Home Tutor. "Extending our hours in the evenings and on weekends allows us to better meet families where they arewithout compromising the quality of care." Early morning sessions are also now available to offer even greater flexibility. The expanded offerings reflect the company's continued commitment to supporting neurodivergent learners. Chicago Home Tutor's ADHD tutoring services are grounded in a deep understanding of executive functioning and are designed to build essential academic and self-management skills. Sessions are tailored to each student's strengths, goals, and attention needs, with a focus on boosting confidence and long-term independence. Chicago Home Tutor serves a wide range of students, from elementary learners to high schoolers navigating complex academic workloads. Tutors are trained not only in subject-specific instruction but also in strategies proven effective for students with ADHD, such as structured routines, visual planning tools, and incremental goal setting. This latest expansion comes on the heels of several milestones for the company, including the celebration of its tenth anniversary and ongoing growth of its team of experienced educators. With deep roots in the local community, Chicago Home Tutor remains committed to fostering academic success through compassionate, one-on-one support. Additional evening and weekend sessions options are now open for booking across Chicagoland. About Chicago Home Tutor Chicago Home Tutor provides personalized, one-on-one tutoring services across the greater Chicago area. Specializing in students with ADHD, learning differences, and executive functioning challenges, the organization takes a student-centered approach to educationtailoring every session to the unique needs of the learner. For more information, visit https://chicagohometutor.com About Entrust Tutoring LLC: Founded in 2015, Chicago Home Tutor was reorganized in 2023 as part of Entrust Tutoring LLC. Today, it stands as the leading tutoring company in Chicago, supporting diverse learners, matching students with local tutors with complementary backgrounds, experience, skills, and personality. With a network of over 170 passionate educators, their consultative approach ensures that each student receives personalized instruction designed to help them meet their academic goals while building confidence and a love for learning. ### For more information about Entrust Tutoring LLC d/b/a Chicago Home Tutor, contact the company here: Entrust Tutoring LLC d/b/a Chicago Home Tutor Joe Hopper, President (312) 622 1494 info@chicagohometutor.com 2155 W Belmont Ave #35, Chicago, IL 60618 Mississauga, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Safety First Training Ltd., a leader in Workplace Health and Safety Training Services and a trusted partner to organizations across Canada for more than three decades, is pleased to announce its approval as a Patron Member of the League of Champions. This new affiliation marks a significant milestone for Safety First Training and highlights the company's continued commitment to advancing health and safety standards throughout the Canadian workforce. Through sustained collaboration with industry leaders and organizations dedicated to health and safety excellence, Safety First Training will further enhance its leadership in promoting and delivering safety best practices to workplaces nationwide. The League of Champions (LOC) functions as a unique, cross-sectoral organization whose mission is to inspire and influence leaders to commit, collaborate, and take action in support of improved health and safety culture. It is widely recognized throughout Canada for its advocacy, knowledge- sharing, and ability to drive meaningful cultural change in matters of workplace safety. Becoming a Patron Member positions Safety First Training alongside other esteemed leaders in the field, all of whom share a steadfast focus on proactive safety measures, continuous education, and real-world solutions rooted in experience. Safety First Training, under the guidance of Vice President of Business Development Kevin Mork, regards the partnership as a natural progression in the company's unwavering mission to foster safety excellence at every organizational level. Since its establishment in 1989, Safety First Training has worked diligently to deliver comprehensive health and safety training solutions to a broad range of clients, including Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, and government agencies. The company's training programs cover a wide spectrum of workplace safety topics and fully comply with both CSA and OHSA standards. Over the years, Safety First Training has demonstrated a consistent ability to adapt to evolving industry regulations while maintaining the highest quality standards in all training offerings. Through a combination of onsite training, virtual learning options, and "Train the Trainer" programs, the company has enabled thousands of employers to realize tangible improvements in workplace health, risk management, and productivity. Central to the philosophy at Safety First Training is the conviction that meaningful safety improvements begin with leadership engagement and extend to involve every member of a workplace community. The organization believes that safety guidelines and protocols must originate at the senior management level but only transform workplace culture when every individual on the front line assumes responsibility for their actions and outcomes. This approach resonates profoundly with the guiding principles of the League of Champions, whose vision"Inspiring leaders at every level to be health and safety champions"emphasizes the shared ownership necessary to cultivate a truly effective culture of safety. Safety First Training is proud to advance this vision both internally and among its client base, championing the notion that safety is more than complianceit is a sustained pursuit of excellence, awareness, and accountability. As a Patron Member of the League of Champions, Safety First Training will actively contribute to the LOC's initiatives, including collaborative forums, awareness campaigns, and educational events that promote innovative approaches to workplace safety. This partnership will not only allow Safety First Training to remain at the forefront of safety leadership and industry change, but also deepen its access to the latest information, research, and thought leadership emerging from top professionals across a variety of sectors. The company's team of Canadian Safety Professionals are excited to work with their peers through the LOC, sharing insights from real-world challenges faced by diverse workplaces and developing best practices that reflect current needs and future trends. The recognition of Patron Member status is a testament to Safety First Training's decades-long record of client trust, quality service, and measurable outcomes. Thousands of organizations have relied on Safety First Training to deliver employee instruction designed to minimize workplace hazards and support long-term organizational resilience. With every engagement, Safety First Training continues to guarantee its clients the highest caliber of service and an uncompromising approach to protecting worker health, reducing incidents, and supporting a positive safety culture. The company values the relationships it has built with clients throughout Canada and is immensely proud to share in the collective responsibility of advancing safety outcomes for all. Looking ahead, Safety First Training will participate in upcoming League of Champions activities designed to celebrate and recognize organizational safety achievements. The LOC has announced plans to present a team jersey to Safety First Training, symbolizing unity and collective responsibility among all members, and a special event will be scheduled to commemorate this occasion with Safety First Training's staff. Such initiatives reinforce the shared purpose of LOC members and exemplify the collaborative spirit necessary for sustained progress. As Safety First Training Ltd. enters this new chapter as a Patron Member of the League of Champions, the company reaffirms its ongoing promise to deliver industry-leading safety training, support the development of healthier and safer workplaces, and make a positive, lasting impact across organizational cultures. The entire Safety First Training team appreciates the trust placed in them by clients, partners, and now, the League of Champions. With renewed enthusiasm, Safety First Training looks forward to shaping the future of workplace health and safety in Canadaone partnership, one program, and one workplace at a time. ### For more information about Safety First Training Ltd, contact the company here: Safety First Training Ltd Kevin Mork 905-672-3600 info@safetyfirsttraining.ca 2425 Matheson Blvd East, 8th Floor Mississauga, ON L4W 5K4 ARLINGTON, Va., July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- OwlTing Group (the Company), a global blockchain fintech company, today announced the launch of OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout, a new API-embedded stablecoin acquiring1 function set to go live in August 2025. With newly approved Money Transmitter Licenses (MTLs) in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Colorado, OwlTing is now available for fund operations in 36 U.S. states2, reinforcing its commitment to compliant, fast, and scalable cross-border payments. Designed for global enterprises in mobility, hospitality, e-commerce, and gaming sectors, OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout enables seamless USD-USDC3 conversions, allowing businesses to accept stablecoin payments and settle in USD through their own platforms or leveraging the built-in feature on the user interface of OwlPay Payment, the flagship B2B payment tool for businesses of all sizes. To bridge the gap between fiat and digital currencies, OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout is a game-changer as to how businesses open up the revenues from stablecoins, said Darren Wang, Founder and CEO at OwlTing Group. Imagine a world where a traveler pays for a stay in USDC, a driver gets paid in USD, or a merchant settles global sales without worrying about currency fluctuations, all securely handled in the background. Thats the future were building, empowering businesses to thrive in a borderless economy with confidence and ease. OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout allows large enterprises to integrate OwlPay Harbor, the AI-powered4 payment API infrastructure, for a customized payment experience within their own user interfaces, enabling end customers to pay in USDC while businesses receive USD in their digital wallets or bank accounts. For small and medium enterprises (SMEs) without technical expertise, OwlPay Payment offers a ready-to-use interface with the embedded stablecoin checkout function, delivering a streamlined payment journey. This flexibility unlocks the $260 billion stablecoin market5 for businesses seeking efficient, low-cost payment solutions. How OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout works for global commerce with or without a payment API, for example: Mobility Platforms A ride-hailing app integrates OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout to allow passengers (payers) to pay for rides in USDC via the apps interface. OwlPay converts these USDC payments to USD, depositing the funds into the apps or drivers (receivers) designated digital wallets or bank accounts. This ensures fast, compliant payouts across over 100 countries 6 , reducing foreign exchange costs and settlement delays. A ride-hailing app integrates OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout to allow passengers (payers) to pay for rides in USDC via the apps interface. OwlPay converts these USDC payments to USD, depositing the funds into the apps or drivers (receivers) designated digital wallets or bank accounts. This ensures fast, compliant payouts across over 100 countries , reducing foreign exchange costs and settlement delays. Hospitality Platforms An online travel agency integrates OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout via APIs into its booking platform, enabling travelers (payers) to pay for hotels, flights, or tours in USDC. OwlPay converts these USDC payments to fiat, disbursing funds to hoteliers, tour operators, or airlines (receivers) in their local currencies 7 (e.g., CAD, EUR, GBP, JPY). An online travel agency integrates OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout via APIs into its booking platform, enabling travelers (payers) to pay for hotels, flights, or tours in USDC. OwlPay converts these USDC payments to fiat, disbursing funds to hoteliers, tour operators, or airlines (receivers) in their local currencies (e.g., CAD, EUR, GBP, JPY). E-Commerce Platforms An online retailer uses the OwlPay Payments interface with the OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout feature to allow customers (payers) to pay for products in USDC. OwlPay instantly converts USDC payments to USD, depositing funds to the retailers (receivers) digital wallets or bank accounts. This simplifies cross-border sales and unlocks the retailers business without the need to manage complex blockchain integrations. An online retailer uses the OwlPay Payments interface with the OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout feature to allow customers (payers) to pay for products in USDC. OwlPay instantly converts USDC payments to USD, depositing funds to the retailers (receivers) digital wallets or bank accounts. This simplifies cross-border sales and unlocks the retailers business without the need to manage complex blockchain integrations. Gaming Platforms A gaming marketplace adapts to the OwlPay Payments interface with the OwlPay Stablecoin Checkout feature, providing a way for gamers (payers) to purchase games, in-game items, or subscriptions in USDC. OwlPay converts these USDC payments to USD, transferring funds into the platforms or gaming developers (receivers) digital wallets or bank accounts. Faster settlements allow developers to reinvest in new games and enhance community engagement, fostering loyalty and positive player experiences. The rise of stablecoin payments, with $5.7 trillion in total transaction volume across 1.3 billion payment transactions in 20248, underscores the demand for efficient digital payment solutions. To address this trend and ensure trust and reliability for global operations, OwlTing continues to grow its regulatory footprint, with MTLs or equivalents now secured in 35 U.S. states. The Company is actively pursuing licenses in additional U.S. states and global markets like Japan and the EU. With adherence to strict KYC/AML standards and plans for adapting to the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)9 later this year, OwlTing remains a trusted partner for businesses navigating the future of stablecoin in global payments. About OwlTing Group Founded in 2010, OwlTing is a global blockchain fintech company headquartered in Taiwan and has subsidiaries in the U.S., Japan, Poland, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Malaysia. In 2025, OwlTing was named a top stablecoin innovator by CB Insights, ranked #2 globally under the B2B & Enterprise Solution. In 2022, it was selected by KPMG and HSBC as the Leading 3 Emerging Giants in Taiwan. With the mission to usher in the digital transformation of traditional payment processes, while ensuring legal compliance, OwlTing introduced OwlPay, a Web2 and Web3 hybrid payment solution, to empower global businesses to operate confidently in the expanding stablecoin economy. For more information, visit https://www.owlting.com/portal/?lang=en. Media Contact pr_office@owlting.com 1 Stablecoin acquiring enables businesses to accept payments in USD-pegged digital currencies such as USDC, which OwlPay converts the payments to USD for global transactions. 2 Availability may vary by jurisdiction and is subject to change. As of July 2025, OwlTing Group has obtained MTL licenses or their equivalent in 35 U.S. states and is applying for licenses in additional states. For a list of U.S. licenses obtained, please see https://www.owlting.com/owlpay/licenses?lang=en. 3 USDC is an internet-native, fully-reserved, regulated digital dollar that leverages blockchain networks to enable businesses, developers, and individuals to conduct near-real-time, low-cost global transactions. It is a leading, fully-reserved global stablecoin issued through Circles regulated affiliates. To learn more about using or accessing USDC, visit USDC.com. 4 OwlPay Harbor uses Model Context Protocol (MCP), a tool similar to a USB-C port for AI models, to simplify API integration for businesses while helping developers easily connect their AI models without sharing sensitive data. 5 According to DeFiLlalma, the data aggregator for DeFi, the total stablecoin market cap is over $260 billions as of July 2025. 6 Availability may vary by jurisdiction and is subject to change. Please refer to the most current service documentation or contact OwlPay support for the latest coverage. 7 OwlPay Harbor processes transactions as local payments in the following 10 currencies: EUR (via SEPA), CAD, GBP, JPY, SGD, HKD, ZAR, AED, MXN, and BRL. Availability is subject to change. Please refer to the most current service documentation or contact OwlPay support for the latest coverage. 8 According to the Visa Onchain Analytics Dashboard, please check https://visaonchainanalytics.com/. 9 NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) was developed by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology. It provides guidance to industry, government agencies, and other organizations such as OwlTing to manage cybersecurity risks. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1d69f77a-488c-4a22-8c0a-67cbd8fd9eab New York, NY, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) is proud to launch its annual summer BizCamp programs with generous support from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, Ernst & Young LLP (EY US), MetLife Foundation, Motorola Solutions Foundation, and PayPal. Delivered across the U.S., BizCamps are intensive summer programs that introduce middle and high school students to the world of entrepreneurship through a flexible 50- to 90-hour curriculum. Students build entrepreneurial mindsets while developing original business ideas and pitching them to judges in a culminating competition. This summers programs will serve more than 600 students across NFTEs Capital, Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, South, Southeast, and West Regions. NFTEs newest evolution of the program is its Tech Entrepreneurship BizCamp, a specialized camp focused on integrating entrepreneurship education with the latest technology. Students not only learn the fundamentals of starting a business, but also explore the role of digital transformation, UI/UX design, and AI-powered tools in developing cutting-edge business ideas. Campers earn industry-recognized credentials and gain hands-on experience using tools from top software platforms, while also developing AI-informed business plans using the Lean Canvas model. Were thrilled to expand NFTE BizCamps this summer, especially through our newest Tech Entrepreneurship BizCamp, said Dr. J.D. LaRock, president and CEO of NFTE. As the future of work becomes increasingly digital, young people need opportunities to build tech fluency and entrepreneurial thinking. Thanks to the support of our partners, were giving students the tools to imagine, design, and pitch their own AI-enabled ventures. NFTEs Tech Entrepreneurship BizCamp is made possible in part by MetLife Foundation and the Motorola Solutions Foundation, whose commitment to advancing innovation and equity is helping to close opportunity gaps for youth from under-resourced communities. The Motorola Solutions Foundation is proud to support NFTEs Tech Entrepreneurship BizCamp, said Karem Perez, executive director of the Motorola Solutions Foundation. Their support and programming are inspiring the next generation of technology innovators. From ideation to execution, NFTE BizCamps help students develop critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills while preparing them to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Students complete camp with not only a business idea, but also with a renewed sense of whats possible for their future. For media inquiries, please contact Denise Berkhalter, APR, 917-281-4362, at mediainquiries@nfte.com. ### About NFTE: Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) ignites the entrepreneurial mindset with unique learning experiences that empower students to own their futures. A global nonprofit founded in 1987, NFTE provides high-quality entrepreneurship education to middle school, high school and postsecondary students. NFTE brings the power of entrepreneurship to students, regardless of family income, community resources, special needs, gender identity, race, or ethnicity. NFTE has educated more than a million students, delivering our programs in school, out of school, in-person, online, or through hybrid models. Visit nfte.com to learn more. Attachments MEXICO CITY, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Grupo Bimbo, S.A.B. de C.V. (Grupo Bimbo or the Company) (BMV: BIMBO) is proud to announce its firm commitment to eliminate all artificial colorants from its entire product portfolio by the end of 2026. This marks a significant step forward in the Companys journey toward offering simpler and natural recipes across its global portfolio. As of today, 99% of the Companys daily consumption productsincluding its core categories of bread, buns and rolls, tortillas, bagels, and English muffinsare already free from artificial flavors and colorants. These categories represent approximately 50% of Grupo Bimbos global net sales and more than 70% of sales in the United States. Additionally, the ATNI, has recognized Grupo Bimbo as one of the four highest-ranked food companies globally, for its commitment to enhance the nutritional quality of its products, promote responsible marketing practices, and broadening access to its product portfolio. We continue making solid progress toward our health and wellness targets, said Rafael Pamias, CEO of Grupo Bimbo. By year-end, we expect 100% of our bread, buns, and breakfast portfolio to deliver positive nutrition, achieving a Health Star Rating of 3.5 or higher. Looking ahead, we are expanding our focus with a bold goal: by 2026, all our products will be free from artificial colorants. And by 2030, we aim for 100% of our baked goods and snacks to be made with simple, natural recipesensuring our products remain safe, nutritious, affordable, and accessible to families around the world. This commitment reinforces Grupo Bimbos leadership in health and wellness and its ongoing Purpose to Nourish a better world. --- Access to Nutrition Initiative (ATNI) is global foundation that actively challenges the food industry, investors, and policymakers to shape healthier food systems. The Health Star Rating (HSR) is an international standard created in Australia and New Zealand. Its methodology evaluates the nutritional profile of packaged foods and beverages, assigning them a rating from 0.5 to 5 stars. --- ABOUT GRUPO BIMBO Grupo Bimbo is the leader and largest baking Company in the world and a relevant participant in snacks. It serves 76 countries worldwide and operates in 39 countries across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa, with 245 bakeries and plants, and more than 1,500 sales centers. The Company has a diverse product portfolio, its main product lines include sliced bread, buns & rolls, pastries, cakes, cookies, toast, English muffins, bagels, tortillas & flatbreads, and salty snacks, among others. Grupo Bimbo has one of the largest direct distribution networks in the world, with more than 54,000 routes and over 152,000 associates. Its shares are listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV) under the ticker symbol BIMBO, and it also trades in the U.S. over-the-counter market through a Level 1 ADR, under the ticker symbol BMBOY. NOTE ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS The information contained in this document includes forward-looking statements or estimates that were reasonably prepared by management. Such information may vary in the future due to various factors, such as economic conditions, business performance, or the Issuers competitive position. The Issuer shall not be obligated to update this information if circumstances change, unless there is a legal obligation to do so. INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT www.grupobimbo.com ir@grupobimbo.com PRESS RELEASE Bloomberg (THEON:NA) / Reuters (THEON.AS) THEON announces formation of Theon Belgium subsidiary and establishment of new facilities in Belgium. Minority stake acquisition in Andres Industries to expand European presence and enhance digital/thermal capabilities. 29 July 2025 - Theon International Plc (THEON) is pleased to announce the formation of its 100% owned subsidiary, Theon Belgium. This strategic move follows the growing global traction of its A.R.M.E.D. product series and the high growth prospects for this line of products. Via its new wholly owned Theon Belgium, THEON is establishing a new production facility at Zaventem as well as a liaison office in Brussels for European Union/NATO programs. THEON has already appointed a Belgian citizen as the designated Plant Manager. His primary responsibilities in the initial phase of the company will include overseeing the setup of the facility and recruiting the necessary personnelup to 12 employees in the first phasewith the objective of commencing production in Q4. The new production facility will be located within the Ikaros Business Park in Zaventem, a strategic industrial hub near Brussels that hosts several high-tech companies. The facility spans 420 square meters, offering ample space for both manufacturing and future R&D integration as part of THEONs long-term operational expansion in the region. Theon Belgium has already signed local cooperation agreements with the major electrooptic manufacturers and local producers of subcomponents and intends to take advantage of the countrys inroads in the thermal/digital oriented capabilities. This investment will establish an export-oriented hub that will not only facilitate local end- user needs but also support THEONs global customer base. As previously communicated, THEON plans to increase the proportion of the A.R.M.E.D. products in its annual revenue from below 10% expected in 2025 to approximately 20% in 2026. Building on this momentum and supported by both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, THEON is targeting 50% of revenues coming from products outside of Night Vision in the medium term. This expansion is part of the broader THEON NEXT strategy, now finalized, under which THEON will soon announce additional investments and acquisitions across the digital and electro-optic domains. These will include international commercial partnerships and R&D collaborations, with a strong emphasis on European and US collaborations. In line with this strategic direction, THEON is also pleased to announce the acquisition of a 10% strategic equity stake in Andres Industries AG (ANDRES) through a 1.1 million share capital increase. The agreement includes options allowing THEON to increase its stake to up to 24.99% within 2 years for a total consideration of 4.5 m. THEON has already been engaged with ANDRES in a major tender in Northern Europe, as well as other business opportunities in this domain, providing total solutions on supply and maintenance of new generation products. Furthermore, THEON has transferred its German HQ to Berlin, located at Andres Industries facilities, to provide closer support of its activities in the German capital. This minority acquisition is part of THEONs normal course of business to expand its presence in Germany. It is unrelated to the companys broader M&A strategy, for which further announcements will be made in due course, as negotiations progress. Philippe Mennicken Deputy CEO & BD Director of THEON stated: I am personally pleased, as a Belgian citizen, that finally THEON is establishing such an advanced production facility in my own country. Belgium has all local capabilities and technologies to support these efforts and combine those with the very advanced digital products of THEON. Production and R&D efforts will be integrated across Belgium, Germany and Greece. The establishment of Theon Belgium and the investment in Andres Industries serve two purposes: First they represent the prelude to the THEON NEXT global new era cooperations soon to be announced. Secondly, they demonstrate our firm industrial commitment to Germany and Belgium - two very important customers of THEON. Furthermore, all THEONS strategic moves align with the very much needed European Defense Industry Integration (EDII) which is actively pursued by all European Union members leadership. All our upcoming announcements during the next two to three months will be in this direction. THEON intends to be a catalyst this EDII direction, and we are very proud of this commented Mr Christian Hadjiminas, CEO of THEON. THEON Production Facility within IKAROS Park, Zaventem, Belgium Brussels Office Location For inquiries, please contact: Investor Relations Nikos Malesiotis E-Mail: ir@theon.com Tel: +30 210 6772290 Media Contact Elli Michou E-Mail: press@theon.com Tel: +30 210 6728610 About THEON GROUP THEON GROUP of companies develops and manufactures cutting-edge night vision and thermal Imaging systems for Defense and Security applications with a global footprint. THEON GROUP started its operations in 1997 from Greece and today occupies a leading role in the sector thanks to its international presence through subsidiaries and production facilities in Greece, Cyprus, Germany, the Baltics, the United States, the Gulf States, Switzerland, Denmark, Belgium, Singapore and South Korea. THEON GROUP has more than 220,000 systems in service with Armed and Special Forces in 71 countries around the world, 26 of which are NATO countries. RNATIONAL PLC has been listed on Euronext Amsterdam (AMS: THEON) since February 2024. www.theon.com Attachments SAN DIEGO, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) is proud to announce that Andrew Cardno, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, will be a featured speaker at the upcoming Casino Marketing & Technology Conference (CMTC), taking place July 2930, 2025, at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. Cardnos session, titled Effective Database Strategies To Help Casinos Prosper During Tough Economic Times, will be held on July 30 from 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM on the Summit Mainstage. In this timely presentation, Cardno will explore how traditional KPIs lose value during economic downturns and what database strategies actually work when markets shift. Drawing on his deep expertise and lessons learned from the 2008 financial crisis, Cardno will offer insight into how casinos can build decision agility, redefine success metrics, and adapt their business models in volatile environments. Andrew is a dynamic and forward-thinking speaker whose sessions are always among the most anticipated at CMTC, said Deana Scott, CEO of Raving. His ability to translate complex data strategies into practical solutions has helped countless operators improve performance, especially during times of uncertainty. Were thrilled to have him back on the mainstage this year. In addition to Cardnos session, the QCI team will be exhibiting at Booth #1214, where attendees can explore private demos of the QCI Enterprise Platform, including Chatalytics, QCI Host, QCI Player, and QCI Marketing. Also on display will be the newly released Book 12 of The Math That Gaming Made, Compendiuma full-color edition co-authored by Andrew Cardno and Dr. Ralph Thomas, offering a deep dive into data activation, AI, and casino optimization strategies. QCI invites all CMTC attendees to visit the booth, meet with our team and see a live demo. The Casino Marketing & Technology Conference is renowned for bringing together industry leaders and professionals to share knowledge, discuss trends, and explore the future of the gaming industry. Andrew Cardnos session is set to be one of the highlights of the event, offering attendees a unique opportunity to learn from one of the industrys foremost experts. For more information about the Casino Marketing & Technology Conference and to register for the event, please visit www.casinomarketingtech.com. ABOUT Raving When it comes to industry-specific training for casino operators and Tribal and commercial leadership, one company has been the choice for over 25 years. Gaming and hospitality executives have relied on Raving, a Native-owned business, for training, education, and outsourced services. Raving, a company of former operators, shares their knowledge and expertise through annual conferences, publications Tribal Gaming and Hospitality Magazine, training and managed services. ABOUT Deana Scott Scott has been a passionate advocate for tribal enterprises for close to three decades. She has focused her career on being a forward-thinking and trusted resource for tribes and encouraging authentic and candid conversations to further the industrys success. A patented inventor, Scott has spent her career in tribal gaming focused on operations, marketing, and project planning. Before ownership of Raving, she held strategic positions as a General Manager and Corporate Marketing Executive and has hands-on experience in the start-up and expansion of numerous business ventures. Since becoming owner and CEO of Raving, a Native-owned gaming and hospitality firm, she has expanded its training and services programs as well as its conference and media divisions further positioning the company as a technology and analytics-driven organization. Scotts greatest skills and passion are assisting casino clients with their strategic planning, operational improvements, and investigating new technology and customer trends. Leadership and education are her priorities: Tribal Gaming and Hospitality Magazine, Raving On Air, Raving NEXT: Indian Gaming Strategic Operations and Leadership Conference, Casino Marketing and Technology Conference, and the Host and Player Development Conference are just a few of the avenues she has created/expanded to provide a platform for leading experts to the gaming and hospitality industry. ABOUT Quick Custom Intelligence Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) has pioneered the revolutionary QCI AGI Platform, an artificial intelligence platform that seamlessly integrates player development, marketing, and gaming operations with powerful, real-time tools designed specifically for the gaming and hospitality industries. Our advanced, highly configurable software is deployed in over 170 casino resorts across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Latin America, and Europe. The QCI AGI Platform, which manages more than $35 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, stands as a best-in-class solution, whether on-premises, hybrid, or cloud-based, enabling fully coordinated activities across all aspects of gaming or hospitality operations. QCI's data-driven, AI-powered software propels swift, informed decision-making vital in the ever-changing casino industry, assisting casinos in optimizing resources and profits, crafting effective marketing campaigns, and enhancing customer loyalty. QCI was co-founded by Dr. Ralph Thomas and Mr. Andrew Cardno and is based in San Diego, with additional offices in Las Vegas, St. Louis, Denver, Dallas, and Phoenix. Main phone number: (858) 299.5715. Visit us at www.quickcustomintelligence.com. ABOUT Andrew Cardno Andrew Cardno is a distinguished figure in the realm of artificial intelligence and data plumbing. With over two decades spearheading private Ph.D. and master's level research teams, his expertise has made significant waves in data tooling. Andrew's innate ability to innovate has led him to devise numerous pioneering visualization methods. Of these, the most notable is the deep zoom image format, a groundbreaking innovation that has since become a cornerstone in the majority of today's mapping tools. His leadership acumen has earned him two coveted Smithsonian Laureates, and teams under his mentorship have clinched 40 industry awards, a lifetime achievement award and, three pivotal gaming industry transformation awards. Together with Dr. Ralph Thomas, the duo co-founded Quick Custom Intelligence, amplifying their collaborative innovative capacities. A testament to his inventive prowess, Andrew boasts over 150 patent applications. Across various industriesbe it telecommunications with Telstra Australia, retail with giants like Walmart and Best Buy, or the medical sector with esteemed institutions like City Of Hope and UCSDAndrew's impact is deeply felt. He has enriched the literature with insights, co-authoring twelve influential books with Dr. Thomas and contributing to over 100 industry publications. An advocate for community and diversity, Andrew's work has touched over 100 Native American Tribal Operators, underscoring his expansive and inclusive professional endeavors. Contact: Laurel Kay, Quick Custom Intelligence Phone: 858-349-8354 HOUSTON, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Orion Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ORN) (the Company, Orion), a leading specialty construction company, today reported its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025. Highlights for the quarter ended June 30, 2025: (Comparisons to second quarter of 2024) ($ in millions, except EPS) Revenue grew 7% to $205 million GAAP Net Income grew $7.4 million to $0.8 million Adjusted EBITDA doubled to $11 million and margins increased 240 bps to 5.3% Contracted backlog at the end of 2Q2025 was $750 million with 1H25 new contract wins of over $450 million Management reaffirmed full year 2025 guidance Strengthened management team by adding Alison Vasquez, CFO, to help execute the next phase of the Companys growth strategy Three months ended June 30, June 30, 2025 2024 Revenue $ 205.3 $ 192.2 GAAP Net Income $ 0.8 $ (6.6 ) GAAP EPS $ 0.02 $ (0.20 ) Adjusted EBITDA $ 11.0 $ 5.5 Adjusted EPS $ 0.07 $ (0.12 ) See definitions and reconciliation of non-GAAP measures elsewhere in this release. Management Commentary We delivered another strong performance in the second quarter with revenue increasing 7% to $205 million and Adjusted EBITDA doubling to $11 million from the second quarter last year. Sequentially, results were also strong with revenue up 9% over the first quarter and Adjusted EBITDA up 34%. Our results were primarily driven by new contract awards in both segments and reflect our commitment to disciplined, profitable growth, said Travis Boone, Chief Executive Officer of Orion Group Holdings. We continue to see strong demand across the markets we serve. For the first six months of the year, we grew our backlog over the first half of 2024 with high-quality, mission critical projects. Our opportunity pipeline grew from $16 billion last quarter to $18 billion today, fueled by diverse growth drivers with multiple sources of public and private funding, which gives us continued confidence in our plans for growth. In our Marine segment, we see robust opportunities resulting from the U.S. Navys deterrence strategy in the Pacific, port expansions and maintenance, coastal rehabilitation and energy infrastructure. In our Concrete segment, demand from the data center sector remains exceptionally strong, and we continue to secure a healthy share of opportunities coming to market with an expanding base of clients. As we enter the second half of the year, we are optimistic about our outlook. We are well positioned to capitalize on the opportunities before us with the right team in place to execute on the next phase of our growth strategy, an outstanding safety record, and high barriers to entry that limit competition. With the majority of our 2025 work under contract as of the end of the quarter, we are pleased to reaffirm our full year 2025 financial guidance, concluded Boone. Second Quarter 2025 Results Contract revenues were $205.3 million, up 7% from $192.2 million in the second quarter last year and up 9% from $188.7 million in the first quarter of 2025. The year-over-year and sequential increases in contract revenues were primarily due to new awards and higher volume across the Marine and Concrete segments. Gross profit was $25.8 million, up 41% from $18.3 million in the second quarter of 2024 and up 12% from $23.0 million in the first quarter of 2025. The increases in gross profit were primarily driven by increased revenue, improved operational performance on Marine projects, and reduced indirect expenses, partially offset by favorable concrete project close-outs in 2024 that did not reoccur in 2025. Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses were $22.8 million, up from $21.1 million in the second quarter of 2024 primarily due to increased spending to support business growth. GAAP net income for the second quarter was $0.8 million, or $0.02 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $6.6 million, or a loss of $0.20 per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2024. Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter doubled to $11.0 million from $5.5 million in the second quarter of 2024 and was up 34% from $8.2 million in the first quarter of 2025. Both the comparative and sequential increases were driven by revenue growth and gross profit expansion. Backlog June 30, December 31, 2025 2024 Marine $ 554.8 $ 582.8 Concrete 190.9 146.3 Total $ 745.7 $ 729.1 Second quarter 2025 backlog included over $100 million in new awards. The Marine segment won an export dock replacement project and two projects with the Port of Tampa Baya 3-year maintenance dredging contract and a critical infrastructure improvement project. The Concrete segment was awarded multiple new projects spanning data centers, energy, consumer goods, and transportation. Balance Sheet Update As of June 30, 2025, current assets were $280.0 million, including unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of $1.7 million. Total debt outstanding as of June 30, 2025 was $33.4 million and the Company had $10.0 million of borrowings under its revolving credit facility. Fiscal Year 2025 Guidance For the full year 2025, Orion is pleased to reaffirm its annual 2025 financial guidance: Revenue in the range of $800 million to $850 million Adjusted EBITDA in the range of $42 million to $46 million Adjusted EPS in the range of $0.11 to $0.17 Capital expenditures in the range of $25 million to $35 million Conference Call Details Orion Group Holdings will host a conference call to discuss the second quarter 2025 financial results at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time/8:00 a.m. Central Time on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. To participate, please call (844) 481-2994 and ask for the Orion Group Holdings Conference Call. A live audio webcast of the call will also be available on the Investor Relations section of Orions website at https://www.oriongroupholdingsinc.com/investor/ and will be archived for replay. About Orion Group Holdings Orion Group Holdings, Inc., a leading specialty construction company serving the infrastructure, industrial and building sectors, provides services both on and off the water in the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and the Caribbean Basin through its marine segment and its concrete segment. The Companys marine segment provides construction and dredging services relating to marine transportation facility construction, marine pipeline construction, marine environmental structures, dredging of waterways, channels and ports, environmental dredging, design and specialty services. Its concrete segment provides turnkey concrete construction services including place and finish, site prep, layout, forming, and rebar placement for large commercial, structural and other associated business areas. The Company is headquartered in Houston, Texas with regional offices throughout its operating areas. The Companys website is located at: https://www.oriongroupholdingsinc.com. Backlog Definition Backlog consists of projects under contract that have either (a) not been started, or (b) are in progress but are not yet complete. The Company cannot guarantee that the revenue implied by its backlog will be realized, or, if realized, will result in earnings. Backlog can fluctuate from period to period due to the timing and execution of contracts. The typical duration of the Companys projects ranges from three to nine months on shorter projects to multiple years on larger projects. The Company's backlog at any point in time includes both revenue it expects to realize during the next twelve-month period as well as revenue it expects to realize in future years. Non-GAAP Financial Measures This press release includes the financial measures adjusted net income/loss, adjusted earnings/loss per share, EBITDA, "Adjusted EBITDA" and Adjusted EBITDA margin." These measurements are non-GAAP financial measures under rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Regulation G. The non-GAAP financial information may be determined or calculated differently by other companies that use similarly titled measures. By reporting such non-GAAP financial information, the Company does not intend to give such information greater prominence than comparable GAAP financial information. Investors are urged to consider these non-GAAP measures in addition to and not in substitute for measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Adjusted net income/loss and adjusted earnings/loss per share should not be viewed as an equivalent financial measure to net income/loss or earnings/loss per share. Adjusted net income/loss and adjusted earnings/loss per share exclude certain items that management believes are one-time items or items whose timing or amount cannot be reasonably estimated. The Company believes these adjusted financial measures are a useful supplement to earnings/loss calculated in accordance with GAAP. Orion Group Holdings defines EBITDA as net income/loss before net interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is calculated by adjusting EBITDA for certain items that management believes are one-time items or items whose timing or amount cannot be reasonably estimated. Adjusted EBITDA margin is calculated by dividing Adjusted EBITDA for the period by contract revenues for the period. The GAAP financial measure that is most directly comparable to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA is net income, while the GAAP financial measure that is most directly comparable to Adjusted EBITDA margin is operating margin, which represents operating income divided by contract revenues. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin are used internally to evaluate current operating expense, operating efficiency, and operating profitability on a variable cost basis, by excluding the depreciation and amortization expenses, primarily related to capital expenditures and acquisitions, and net interest and tax expenses. Additionally, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin provide useful information regarding the Company's ability to meet future debt service and working capital requirements while providing an overall evaluation of the Company's financial condition. In addition, EBITDA is used internally for incentive compensation purposes. The Company includes EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin to provide transparency to investors as they are commonly used by investors and others in assessing performance. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin have certain limitations as analytical tools and should not be used as a substitute for operating margin, net income, cash flows, or other data prepared in accordance with GAAP, or as a measure of the Company's profitability or liquidity. Forward-Looking Statements The matters discussed in this press release may constitute or include projections or other forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, of which provisions the Company is availing itself. Certain forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as 'believes', 'expects', 'may', 'will', 'could', 'should', 'seeks', 'approximately', 'intends', 'plans', 'estimates', or 'anticipates', or the negative thereof or other comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy, plans, objectives, intentions, estimates, forecasts, guidance, outlook, assumptions, or goals. In particular, statements regarding our pipeline of opportunities, financial guidance and future operations or results, including those set forth in this press release, and any other statement, express or implied, concerning financial guidance or future operating results or the future generation of or ability to generate revenues, income, net income, gross profit, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, or cash flow, including to service debt or maintain compliance with debt covenants, and including any estimates, guidance, forecasts or assumptions regarding future revenues or revenue growth, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements also include project award announcements, estimated project start dates, ramp-up of contract activity and contract options, which may or may not be awarded in the future. Forward-looking statements involve risks, including those associated with the Company's fixed price contracts that impacts profits, unforeseen productivity delays that may alter the final profitability of the contract, cancellation of the contract by the customer for unforeseen reasons, delays or decreases in funding by the customer, levels and predictability of government funding or other governmental budgetary constraints, and any potential contract options which may or may not be awarded in the future, and are at the sole discretion of award by the customer. Past performance is not necessarily an indicator of future results. Considering these and other uncertainties, the inclusion of forward-looking statements in this press release should not be regarded as a representation by the Company that the Company's plans, estimates, forecasts, goals, intentions, or objectives will be achieved or realized. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company assumes no obligation to update information contained in this press release whether as a result of new developments or otherwise, except as required by law. Please refer to the Company's 2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed on March 5, 2025 which is available on its website at www.oriongroupholdingsinc.com or at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov, and filings and press releases subsequent to such Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional and more detailed discussion of risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our current expectations, estimates or forecasts. Contact: Margaret Boyce 713-852-6500 mboyce@orn.net Source: Orion Group Holdings, Inc. Orion Group Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (In Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Information) (Unaudited) Three months ended Six months ended June 30, June 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 Contract revenues $ 205,286 $ 192,167 $ 393,939 $ 352,839 Costs of contract revenues 179,489 173,886 345,127 319,020 Gross profit 25,797 18,281 48,812 33,819 Selling, general and administrative expenses 22,774 21,135 45,319 40,134 Gain on disposal of assets, net (409 ) (86 ) (772 ) (423 ) Operating income (loss) 3,432 (2,768 ) 4,265 (5,892 ) Other (expense) income: Interest expense (2,920 ) (3,345 ) (5,254 ) (6,719 ) Other income 117 127 344 216 Other expense, net (2,803 ) (3,218 ) (4,910 ) (6,503 ) Income (loss) before income taxes 629 (5,986 ) (645 ) (12,395 ) Income tax (benefit) expense (212 ) 617 (72 ) 265 Net income (loss) $ 841 $ (6,603 ) $ (573 ) $ (12,660 ) Basic income (loss) per share $ 0.02 $ (0.20 ) $ (0.01 ) $ (0.39 ) Diluted income (loss) per share $ 0.02 $ (0.20 ) $ (0.01 ) $ (0.39 ) Shares used to compute income (loss) per share: Basic 39,765,051 33,111,987 39,412,681 32,832,868 Diluted 39,791,164 33,111,987 39,412,681 32,832,868 Orion Group Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries Reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income (Loss) (In thousands except per share information) (Unaudited) Three months ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 Net income (loss) $ 841 $ (6,603 ) $ (573 ) $ (12,660 ) Adjusting items and the tax effects: Share-based compensation 1,519 1,556 2,642 1,914 ERP implementation 225 613 830 1,299 Severance 547 19 577 81 Process improvement initiatives 138 Tax rate of 23% applied to adjusting items (1) (527 ) (503 ) (963 ) (758 ) Total adjusting items and the tax effects 1,764 1,685 3,224 2,536 Federal and state tax valuation allowances 76 825 290 2,410 Adjusted net income (loss) $ 2,681 $ (4,093 ) $ 2,941 $ (7,714 ) Adjusted EPS $ 0.07 $ (0.12 ) $ 0.07 $ (0.23 ) ________________________ (1) Items are taxed discretely using the Company's blended tax rate. Orion Group Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin Reconciliations (In Thousands, Except Margin Data) (Unaudited) Three months ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 Net income (loss) $ 841 $ (6,603 ) $ (573 ) $ (12,660 ) Income tax (benefit) expense (212 ) 617 (72 ) 265 Interest expense, net 2,827 3,338 4,968 6,695 Depreciation and amortization 5,231 5,970 10,634 11,990 EBITDA (1) 8,687 3,322 14,957 6,290 Share-based compensation 1,519 1,556 2,642 1,914 ERP implementation 225 613 830 1,299 Severance 547 19 577 81 Process improvement initiatives 138 Adjusted EBITDA (2) $ 10,978 $ 5,510 $ 19,144 $ 9,584 Adjusted EBITDA margin (2) 5.3 % 2.9 % 4.9 % 2.7 % ________________________ (1) EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure that represents earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. (2) Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure that represents EBITDA adjusted for share-based compensation, ERP implementation, severance and process improvement initiatives. Adjusted EBITDA margin is a non-GAAP measure calculated by dividing Adjusted EBITDA by contract revenues. Orion Group Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin Reconciliations by Segment (In Thousands, Except Margin Data) (Unaudited) Marine Concrete Three months ended Three months ended June 30, June 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 Contract revenues $ 135,302 $ 130,953 $ 69,984 $ 61,214 Operating income (loss) $ 6,230 $ (5,466 ) $ (2,798 ) $ 2,698 Other income 23 83 1 37 Depreciation and amortization 4,373 4,922 858 1,048 EBITDA (1) 10,626 (461 ) (1,939 ) 3,783 Share-based compensation 1,338 1,494 181 62 ERP implementation 145 420 80 193 Severance 547 19 Adjusted EBITDA (2) $ 12,656 $ 1,472 $ (1,678 ) $ 4,038 Adjusted EBITDA margin (2) 9.4 % 1.1 % (2.4 ) % 6.6 % Marine Concrete Six months ended Six months ended June 30, June 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 Contract revenues $ 262,465 $ 237,278 $ 131,474 $ 115,561 Operating income (loss) 11,008 (10,332 ) (6,743 ) 4,440 Other income 47 131 11 61 Depreciation and amortization 8,904 9,853 1,730 2,137 EBITDA (1) 19,959 (348 ) (5,002 ) 6,638 Share-based compensation 2,370 1,820 272 94 ERP implementation 553 874 277 425 Severance 560 81 17 Process improvement initiatives 93 45 Adjusted EBITDA (2) $ 23,535 $ 2,427 $ (4,391 ) $ 7,157 Adjusted EBITDA margin (2) 9.0 % 1.8 % (3.3 ) % 6.2 % ________________________ (1) EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure that represents earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. (2) Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure that represents EBITDA adjusted for share-based compensation, ERP implementation, severance and process improvement initiatives. Adjusted EBITDA margin is a non-GAAP measure calculated by dividing Adjusted EBITDA by contract revenues. Orion Group Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (In Thousands) (Unaudited) Six months ended June 30, 2025 2024 Cash flows from operating activities Net loss $ (573 ) $ (12,660 ) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 6,274 8,326 Amortization of ROU operating leases 4,848 4,912 Amortization of ROU finance leases 4,360 3,664 Amortization of deferred debt issuance costs 612 995 Deferred income taxes 2 (38 ) Share-based compensation 2,642 1,914 Gain on disposal of assets, net (772 ) (423 ) Allowance for credit losses 544 162 Change in operating assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable (71,339 ) (28,135 ) Income tax receivable (392 ) (70 ) Inventory 819 (261 ) Prepaid expenses and other 312 723 Contract assets 33,456 10,910 Accounts payable 13,636 7,291 Accrued liabilities (1,141 ) (14,160 ) Operating lease liabilities (3,179 ) (4,492 ) Income tax payable (505 ) 166 Contract liabilities 1,391 (16,981 ) Net cash used in operating activities (9,005 ) (38,157 ) Cash flows from investing activities: Proceeds from sale of property and equipment 1,189 354 Purchase of property and equipment (16,165 ) (6,487 ) Net cash used in investing activities (14,976 ) (6,133 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Borrowings on Credit Facility 77,007 29,216 Payments on Credit Facility (67,212 ) (6,809 ) Payments on failed sale-leasebacks (7,204 ) Loan costs from Credit Facility (323 ) (343 ) Payments of finance lease liabilities (5,316 ) (4,209 ) Proceeds from issuance of common stock under ESPP 337 Payments related to tax withholding for share-based compensation (34 ) Exercise of stock options 108 368 Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (2,603 ) 18,189 Net change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (26,584 ) (26,101 ) Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period 28,316 30,938 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period $ 1,732 $ 4,837 Orion Group Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (In Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Information) June 30, December 31, 2025 2024 (Unaudited) Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,732 28,316 Accounts receivable: Trade, net of allowance for credit losses of $1,099 and $555, respectively 168,526 106,304 Retainage 43,944 35,633 Income taxes receivable 875 483 Other current 3,338 3,127 Inventory 1,841 1,974 Contract assets 50,951 84,407 Prepaid expenses and other 8,765 9,084 Total current assets 279,972 269,328 Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation 97,677 86,098 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net of accumulated amortization 23,708 27,101 Financing lease right-of-use assets, net of accumulated amortization 23,061 25,806 Inventory, non-current 6,954 7,640 Deferred income tax asset 17 17 Other non-current 1,334 1,327 Total assets $ 432,723 $ 417,317 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY Current liabilities: Current debt, net of issuance costs $ 1,160 $ 426 Accounts payable: Trade 111,125 97,139 Retainage 2,847 1,310 Accrued liabilities 22,610 26,294 Income taxes payable 2 507 Contract liabilities 48,762 47,371 Current portion of operating lease liabilities 5,549 7,546 Current portion of financing lease liabilities 10,997 10,580 Total current liabilities 203,052 191,173 Long-term debt, net of debt issuance costs 32,268 22,751 Operating lease liabilities 21,030 20,837 Financing lease liabilities 7,665 11,346 Other long-term liabilities 15,484 20,503 Deferred income tax liability 30 28 Total liabilities 279,530 266,638 Stockholders equity: Preferred stock -- $0.01 par value, 10,000,000 authorized, none issued Common stock -- $0.01 par value, 50,000,000 authorized, 40,446,476 and 39,681,597 issued; 39,735,245 and 38,970,366 outstanding at June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively 404 397 Treasury stock, 711,231 shares, at cost, as of June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively (6,540 ) (6,540 ) Additional paid-in capital 223,593 220,513 Retained loss (64,264 ) (63,691 ) Total stockholders equity 153,193 150,679 Total liabilities and stockholders equity $ 432,723 $ 417,317 Orion Group Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries Guidance Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation (In Thousands) (Unaudited) Year Ending December 31, 2025 Low Estimate High Estimate Net (loss) income $ (2,226 ) $ 1,533 Income tax benefit (291 ) (50 ) Interest expense, net 9,815 9,815 Depreciation and amortization 25,613 25,613 EBITDA (1) 32,911 36,911 Share-based compensation 7,604 7,604 ERP implementation 1,485 1,485 Adjusted EBITDA (2) $ 42,000 $ 46,000 ________________________ (1) EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure that represents earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. (2) Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure that represents EBITDA adjusted for share-based compensation and ERP implementation. Orion Group Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries Guidance Adjusted EPS Reconciliation (In thousands except per share information) (Unaudited) Year Ending December 31, 2025 Low Estimate High Estimate Net (loss) income $ (2,226 ) $ 1,533 Adjusting items and the tax effects: Share-based compensation 7,604 7,604 ERP implementation 1,485 1,485 Tax rate of 23% applied to adjusting items (1) (2,090 ) (2,090 ) Total adjusting items and the tax effects 6,999 6,999 Federal and state tax valuation allowances (471 ) (1,632 ) Adjusted net income (2) $ 4,302 $ 6,900 Adjusted EPS (2) $ 0.11 $ 0.17 ________________________ (1) Items are taxed discretely using the Company's blended tax rate. (2) Adjusted net income and Adjusted EPS are non-GAAP measures that represent net income adjusted for share-based compensation and ERP implementation. North Chicago, IL, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A new Fisher House was dedicated at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (Lovell FHCC) by Lovell FHCC Director Dr. Robert Buckley, Deputy Director, Commanding Officer NMRTC Great Lakes CAPT Chad Roe, and Chairman and CEO of Fisher House Foundation Kenneth Fisher. The Honorable Doug Collins, Secretary of the VA, shared remarks at this historic dedication marking the 100th Fisher House in the Fisher House network that serves military and Veteran families across the country and overseas. Montel Williams, Fisher House Trustee was the Master of Ceremonies. Lovell FHCC is the nations only fully integrated Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility making this the first Fisher House with the mission to support both military families and Veteran families. Fisher House has the important role of ensuring Veterans and servicemembers dont have to heal alone. We are proud to welcome the 100th Fisher House facility to the Lovell Federal Health Care Center, where it will be the first Fisher House serving both military and Veteran families," said VA Secretary Doug Collins. The more than 14,000 sq. ft. Fisher House will provide lodging for families of Veterans and military members at no cost, allowing them to be close to their loved ones at the most stressful times, while they are receiving medical care. At full occupancy, it can save military and Veteran families more than 1.3 million dollars each year, but more importantly, the new Fisher House will allow patients to receive care they could not readily access in the past without a place for their loved ones to stay. This day has been long in coming, and to say were excited to open the 100th, and the first Department of Defense and VA Fisher House in the nation, is an understatement, said Dr. Robert Buckley, director of the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center. Many people in the VA, the Navy and Dept. of Defense, Congress, the Naval Station Great Lakes and former North Chicago VA medical community, and local leaders had a vision when Lovell FHCC was formed in 2010 to ultimately open a Fisher House here, Buckley continued. It was a long and sometimes challenging road, but now we are opening the doors, and we couldnt be more proud and more committed to supporting the sacred mission of our new Fisher House. This Fisher House is part of a network of 100 homes located across the country, in Germany, and in the United Kingdom. An additional house in Little Rock, Arkansas is under construction, as well. In North Chicago, where both military and veteran families come for care, weve built a home that reflects the communitys strength and compassion," said Kenneth Fisher, chairman and CEO of Fisher House Foundation. "The 100th Fisher House is not just a numberits a symbol of our national promise to stand by those who serve, past and present. The new Fisher House at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center has 16 accessible suites, a spacious kitchen, large communal living, dining and family rooms, a laundry room, and a shared patio. The home was gifted to the center upon completion as part of the public-private partnership between Fisher House Foundation, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Fisher House Foundation proudly recognizes the generosity of the following contributors for their extraordinary support of our military and Veteran families: 84 Lumber; Combined Insurance, a Chubb company; Mie (Shibukawa) Duncan and SGM Donald Duncan, USA (RET); Enterprise Mobility Foundation; Floor & Decor; Friends of Fisher House Illinois; CDR Paul M. Guetter, USN (Ret) and Tracy Anne Guetter; Men's Wearhouse; Pritzker Military Foundation on behalf of the Pritzker Military Museum & Library; Sevan Charitable Foundation; The HPB Foundation; The Wohlers Family Foundation; Wabash Corporation; United Airlines; United Rentals; Vehicles for Veterans; and the many gifts of a grateful nation. ### About Fisher House Fisher House Foundation is best known for its network of 100 comfort homes where military and Veteran families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment. These homes are located at major military and VA medical centers nationwide, and in Europe, close to the medical center or hospital they serve. Fisher Houses have up to 20 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room, and an inviting living room. Fisher House Foundation ensures that there is never a lodging fee. Since its inception, the program has saved military and Veteran families an estimated $650 million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging and transportation. www.fisherhouse.org About the Lovell Federal Health Care Center With the main hospital located in North Chicago, Ill., Lovell FHCC is the nations only fully integrated Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility. It serves Veterans, active-duty military members, and military families. Lovell FHCC operates outpatient clinics for Veterans in McHenry and Evanston, Ill. and Kenosha, Wis., and has four Naval Station Great Lakes clinics for Navy recruits and students, and other area military members and their families. Attachments NEWPORT NEWS, Va., July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HII (NYSE: HII) announced today that former chairman, CEO and president of Hexcel Corporation Nick Stanage was elected to the companys board of directors. We are pleased to welcome Nick to the board of HII, said Kirk Donald, chairman of the board of HII. His leadership experience and extensive understanding of industrial manufacturing and innovative solutions make him a valuable addition to the HII team as we position HII for further growth. I look forward to Nicks contributions to our team of directors. Stanage has decades of industrial manufacturing experience in the aerospace, automotive and construction equipment industries. He joined Hexcel Corporation in 2009, serving initially as president before transitioning to chief operating officer in 2012. He served in this position until he assumed the role of CEO in 2013. He retired as president and CEO in May 2024 and assumed the role of executive chairman through November 2024. A photo accompanying this release is available at: http://hii.com/news/nick-stanage-joins-hii-board-of-directors/. Prior to his time with Hexcel Corporation, Stanage spent 20 years with Honeywell Aerospace and Transportation Systems, where he held a variety of leadership roles in areas focused on technology, operations, and supply chain management. Stanage then joined Dana Holding Corporation, where he served as president of the Heavy Vehicle Products group. In addition to the Hexcel board of directors, Stanage also serves on the board of directors for TriMas Corporation where he is a member of its compensation and governance and nominating committees. Stanage received a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Western Michigan University. He also holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame. About HII HII is a global, all-domain defense provider. HIIs mission is to deliver the worlds most powerful ships and all-domain solutions in service of the nation, creating the advantage for our customers to protect peace and freedom around the world. As the nations largest military shipbuilder, and with a more than 135-year history of advancing U.S. national security, HII delivers critical capabilities extending from ships to uncrewed systems, cyber, ISR, AI/ML and synthetic training. Headquartered in Virginia, HIIs workforce is 44,000 strong. For more information, visit: HII on the web: https://www.HII.com/ HII on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamHII HII on X: https://www.twitter.com/WeAreHII HII on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/WeAreHII Contact: Danny Hernandez Danny.J.Hernandez@HII-co.com (240) 264-7143 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/72d4be6c-32fc-458a-931d-10553284a864 CEDAR PARK, Texas, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Firefly Aerospace, a market leading space and defense technology company, was awarded a $176.7 million NASA Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) contract to deliver five NASA-sponsored payloads to the Moons south pole in 2029. The mission will utilize Fireflys Elytra orbital vehicle and Blue Ghost lunar lander to enable payload operations that include evaluating the Moons south pole resources, such as hydrogen, water, and other minerals, and studying the radiation and thermal environment that could affect future astronauts and lunar infrastructure. Firefly is honored to support another NASA CLPS task order as a proven, reliable partner for robotic missions to the Moon, said Jason Kim, CEO of Firefly Aerospace. Following our first Blue Ghost mission that made history just a few months ago, this bold Firefly team proved we have the right mix of grit, innovation, and dedication to not only stick the landing, but also complete all scientific objectives for our payload partners. Weve set the bar high, and we aim to continue setting new records in our missions to come with our active production line of Blue Ghost landers. During Blue Ghost Mission 4 operations, Fireflys Elytra Dark transfer vehicle will first deploy the Blue Ghost lander into lunar orbit and remain on orbit to provide a long-haul communications relay for the mission. Blue Ghost will then land in the Moons south pole region, deploy the rovers, and enable payloads operations with data, power, and communications services for more than 12 days on the lunar surface. The NASA-sponsored payloads onboard Blue Ghost include two rovers the MoonRanger rover and a Canadian Space Agency rover as well as a Laser Ablation Ionization Mass Spectrometer (LIMS), a Laser Retroreflector Array (LRA), and the Stereo Cameras for Lunar Plume Surface Studies (SCALPSS), which also flew on Blue Ghost Mission 1. These payloads will help uncover the composition and resources available at the Moons south pole, advance lunar navigation, evaluate the chemical composition of lunar regolith, and further study the effects of a lander's plume on the Moons surface during landings. Following Blue Ghost Mission 4 operations, Elytra Dark will remain operational in lunar orbit for more than five years in support of Fireflys Ocula lunar imaging service. The mission enables a third Elytra Dark in Fireflys growing constellation to provide customers with faster revisit times for lunar mapping, mission planning, situational awareness, and mineral detection services. The first two Elytra Dark vehicles will launch as part of Blue Ghost Mission 2 to the far side of the Moon in 2026 and Blue Ghost Mission 3 to the Gruithuisen Domes in 2028. Fireflys Elytra Dark spacecraft are great companions for Blue Ghost theyre highly maneuverable vehicles built with the same flight-proven components and propulsion system that successfully landed Blue Ghost on the Moon, said Chris Clark, Vice President of Spacecraft. As our Elytra constellation continues to grow in lunar orbit, Firefly is in a unique position to provide lunar imaging services and a communications relay for missions anywhere on the Moons surface. And with extra payload capacity on both Elytra and Blue Ghost, we invite additional government and commercial customers to join our fourth mission thats built upon the same reliable architecture and led by the same trusted team. Customers interested in joining Blue Ghost Mission 4 can find more information at https://fireflyspace.com/missions/blue-ghost-mission-4/ and those interested in Fireflys Ocula lunar imaging services can find more details at https://fireflyspace.com/ocula/. About Firefly Aerospace Firefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company that enables government and commercial customers to launch, land, and operate in space anywhere, anytime. As the partner of choice for responsive space missions, Firefly is the only commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with approximately 24-hour notice. Firefly is also the only company to achieve a fully successful landing on the Moon. Established in 2017, Fireflys engineering, manufacturing, and test facilities are co-located in central Texas to enable rapid innovation. The companys small- to medium-lift launch vehicles, lunar landers, and orbital vehicles are built with common flight-proven technologies to enable speed, reliability, and cost efficiencies for each mission from low Earth orbit to the Moon and beyond. For more information, visit www.fireflyspace.com. Media Contact press@fireflyspace.com Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d04e1f44-3c9f-4bd2-b115-29efe33fd3d3 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c8cdaeef-cce2-4de8-a2b7-62ec15124e70 NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the Western Asset US Core Bond Fund mutual fund classes Class I (ticker: WATFX), Class A (ticker: WABAX), Class C (ticker: WABCX), Class FI (ticker: WAPIX), Class IS (ticker: WACSX), and Class R (ticker: WABRX) and the Western Asset Core Plus Bond Fund mutual fund classes Class A (ticker: WAPAX), Class C (ticker: WAPCX), Class C1 (ticker: LWCPX), Class FI (ticker: WACIX), Class R (ticker: WAPRX), Class I (ticker: WACPX), Class IS (ticker: WAPSX) between January 1, 2021 and October 31, 2023, inclusive (the Class Period), of the important September 5, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline. SO WHAT: If you purchased WAMCO mutual funds during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the WAMCO class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=31956 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for more information. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than September 5, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs Bar. Many of the firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants failed to warn investors that: (1) defendants favored certain WAMCO strategies, like Macro Opps, over other WAMCO strategies, like Core and Core Plus; (2) defendants disfavored certain WAMCO strategies, like Core and Core Plus; (3) any compliance policies and procedures that WAMCO maintained to result in fair allocations of investment opportunities to clients were either insufficient to ensure that Leech and his WAMCO Team fairly allocated trades among the strategies they managed or were expressly disregarded by defendants in order to allow the favoring of certain WAMCO strategies at the expense of other WAMCO strategies; (3) any oversight mechanisms that WAMCO maintained were either insufficient to monitor Leech and his WAMCO Team or were expressly disregarded by defendants in order to allow the favoring of certain WAMCO strategies at the expense of other WAMCO strategies. As a result, defendants actions operated as a fraud or deceit on the Class, artificially reducing the price of the Western Asset US Core strategy mutual fund classes during the Class Period, damaging Class members. To join the WAMCO class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=31956 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for more information. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@rosenlegal.com www.rosenlegal.com NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES MONTREAL, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NioBay Metals Inc. (NioBay or the Company) (TSX-V: NBY) (OTCQB: NBYCF) is pleased to announce that it has closed a non-brokered private placement financing for total gross proceeds of $2,238,231.52 (the Offering). Under the Offering, NioBay issued 23,808,846 units of the Company on a charity flow-through basis (the Charity FT Units) at a price of $0.094 per Charity FT Unit. Each Charity FT Unit consists of one common share of the Company (a Common Share) that qualifies as a flow-through share pursuant to subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and section 359.1 of the Taxation Act (Quebec) and one common share purchase warrant of the Company (a Warrant). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share on a non flow-through basis at an exercise price of $0.10 for a period of 24 months. Upon closing, the Company paid (i) a cash finders fee of $14,000 to Wealth Creation Preservation and Donation Inc, (ii) a cash finders fee of $57,654 and issued 621,600 finders warrants (the Compensation Warrants) to EMD Financial Inc, and (iii) a cash finders fee of $3,500 and issued 53,846 Compensation Warrants to Alpha Bronze, LLC. Each Compensation Warrant is exercisable to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.10 per share for a period of 24 months. The Company intends to use the proceeds of the Offering to fund exploration work on its properties located in Quebec. Niobays President and Chief Executive Officer, Jean-Sebastien David, commented: We are very pleased with the support received for this financing and having received support from people or companies that focus on the long term, such as SIDEX. These funds will enable us to continue advancing our critical and strategic metals project, Crevier. We will prepare ore for a second pilot test in order to provide additional samples and update our resources. We are hopeful that we will be positive results based on the field work carried out in recent years. The Offering was completed pursuant to prospectus exemptions of applicable securities laws and is subject to final acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange. The securities issued under the Offering are subject to a four-month-and-one-day statutory hold period expiring on November 30, 2025. About NioBay Metals Inc. NioBay aims to become a leader in the development of mine(s) with low carbon consumption and responsible water and wildlife management practices while prioritizing the environment, social responsibility, good governance, and the inclusion of all stakeholders. Our top priority, which is critical to our success, is the consent and full participation of the Indigenous communities in whose territories and/or on ancestral lands we operate. In addition to others properties, NioBay holds a 100% interest in the James Bay Niobium Project located 45 km south of Moosonee, in the Moose Cree Traditional Territory of the James Bay Lowlands in Ontario. NioBay also holds a 72.5% interest in the Crevier Niobium and Tantalum project located in Quebec and on the Nitassinan territory of the Pekuakaminulnuatsh First Nation. The Company has also the option to acquire a 80% interest in the Foothills project, a titanium-phosphate project located near the former St-Urbain mine site in Quebec. About Niobium Niobium is a naturally occurring element. It is a metal that is ductile, malleable and highly resistant to corrosion. Because it enhances properties and functionalities, niobium is used in a wide range of materials and applications in the Mobility, Structural and Energy sectors. Niobium transforms materials. When added to materials like steel, glass and aluminum castings, niobium makes them more efficient and lowers environmental impacts, while also increased value. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: AUSTIN, Texas, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ambiq Micro, Inc. (Ambiq), a technology leader in ultra-low-power semiconductor solutions for edge AI, today announced the pricing of its upsized initial public offering of 4,000,000 shares of its common stock at a public offering price of $24.00 per share. The gross proceeds to Ambiq from the offering, before deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and other offering expenses payable by Ambiq, are expected to be $96.0 million. In addition, Ambiq has granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 600,000 shares (solely to cover over-allotments, if any) of its common stock at the initial public offering price, less underwriting discounts and commissions. The shares are expected to begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol AMBQ on July 30, 2025, and the offering is expected to close on July 31, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. BofA Securities and UBS Investment Bank are acting as joint lead book-running managers for the offering. Needham & Company and Stifel are acting as joint book-running managers for the offering. A registration statement relating to the offering of securities was declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on July 29, 2025. The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. When available, copies of the final prospectus relating to the offering may be obtained by contacting: BofA Securities, NC1-022-02-25, 201 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina 28255-0001, Attention: Prospectus Department, or by email at dg.prospectus_requests@bofa.com or UBS Securities LLC, Attention: Prospectus Department, 1285 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10019, by telephone at (888) 827-7275 or by emailing ol-prospectus-request@ubs.com. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction. About Ambiq Ambiqs mission is to enable intelligence (artificial intelligence (AI) and beyond) everywhere by delivering the lowest power semiconductor solutions. Ambiq enables its customers to deliver AI compute at the edge where power consumption challenges are the most severe. Ambiqs technology innovations, built on the patented and proprietary subthreshold power optimized technology (SPOT), fundamentally deliver a multi-fold improvement in power consumption over traditional semiconductor designs. Ambiq has powered over 270 million devices to date. Forward-Looking Statements The statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. You can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as believes, expects, may, will, should, seeks, intends, plans, estimates, or anticipates, or similar expressions which concern our strategy, plans, projections or intentions. These forward-looking statements may be included throughout this press release, and include, but are not limited to, statements relating to Ambiqs expected gross proceeds from the initial public offering, the expected date for Ambiq common stock to begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange and the expected closing of the initial public offering. By their nature, forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact or guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions or changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict or quantify. Ambiqs expectations, beliefs and projections are expressed in good faith and Ambiq believes there is a reasonable basis for them. However, there can be no assurance that managements expectations, beliefs and projections will result or be achieved and actual results may vary materially from what is expressed in or indicated by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement in this press release speaks only as of the date of this release. Ambiq undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by any applicable securities laws. Contact Charlene Wan VP of Corporate Marketing and Investor Relations cwan@ambiq.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2b0020d4-b17f-45b8-a173-5f4318a97b59 Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. Litigation Partner Brandon Walker Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses In Lockheed Martin (LMT) To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options If you purchased or acquired securities in Lockheed Martin between January 23, 2024 and July 21, 2025 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Bragar Eagel & Squire partner Brandon Walker or Marion Passmore directly at (212) 355-4648. NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C., a nationally recognized stockholder rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Lockheed Martin Corporation (Lockheed Martin or the Company) (NYSE:LMT) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on behalf of all persons and entities who purchased or otherwise acquired Lockheed Martin securities between January 23, 2024 and July 21, 2025, both dates inclusive (the Class Period). Investors have until September 26, 2025 to apply to the Court to be appointed as lead plaintiff in the lawsuit. Click here to participate in the action. The complaint filed in this class action alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors: (1) that Lockheed Martin lacked effective internal controls regarding its purportedly risk adjusted contracts including the reporting of its risk adjusted profit booking rate; (2) that Lockheed Martin lacked effective procedures to perform reasonably accurate comprehensive reviews of program requirements, technical complexities, schedule, and risks; (3) that Lockheed Martin overstated its ability to deliver on its contract commitments in terms of cost, quality and schedule; (4) that, as a result, the Company was reasonably likely to report significant losses; and (5) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. On October 22, 2024, before the market opened, Lockheed Martin announced it was forced to recognize losses of $80 million on a classified program at the Company's Aeronautics business segment "due to higher than anticipated costs to achieve program objectives." The Company also announced it had recognized a reach-forward loss in its Rotary and Mission Systems segment "as a result of additional quantity ordering risk identified on fixed-price options." On this news, the Company's share price fell $37.63 or 6.12% to close at $576.98 on October 22, 2024, on unusually heavy trading volume. Then, on January 28, 2025, before the market opened, Lockheed Martin announced it was forced to record pre-tax losses of $1.7 billion associated with classified programs at its Aeronautics and Missiles and Fire Control business. The Company explained "as a result of performance trends" and "in contemplation of near-term program milestones," it had "performed a comprehensive review of the program requirements, technical complexities, schedule, and risks" based on which it recognized $555 million of losses in its Aeronautics program. The Company further reported additional losses of approximately $1.3 billion in its Missiles and Fire Control business due to, among other things, the "future requirements of the program, discussions with the customer and suppliers." As a result, the Company's net earnings in 2024 were $5.3 billion, or $22.31 per share, compared to $6.9 billion, or $27.55 per share, in 2023. On this news, the Company's share price fell $46.24 or 9.2% to close at $457.45 on January 28, 2025 on unusually heavy trading volume. Then, on July 22, 2025, before the market opened, Lockheed Martin disclosed it was forced to record an additional $1.6 billion in pre-tax losses on classified programs, including $950 million in losses related to its Aeronautics Classified program due to "design, integration, and test challenges, as well as other performance issues." The Company also recorded $570 million in losses on its Canadian Maritime Helicopter Program due in part to providing "additional mission capabilities, enhanced logistical support, fleet life extension, and revised expectations regarding flight hours." The Company further recorded a $95 million charge related to its Turkish Utility Helicopter Program due to the "current status of the program." As a result, the Company reported sharply lower net earnings of $342 million, or $1.46 per share, including $1.6 billion of program losses and $169 million of other charges. On this news, the Company's share price fell $49.79 or 10.8%, to close at $410.74 on July 22, 2025, on unusually heavy trading volume. If you purchased or otherwise acquired Lockheed Martin shares and suffered a loss, are a long-term stockholder, have information, would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Brandon Walker or Marion Passmore by email at investigations@bespc.com, telephone at (212) 355-4648, or by filling out this contact form. There is no cost or obligation to you. About Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C.: Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. is a nationally recognized law firm with offices in New York, California, and South Carolina. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in commercial, securities, derivative, and other complex litigation in state and federal courts across the country. For more information about the firm, please visit www.bespc.com . Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook, and keep up with other news by following Brandon Walker, Esq. on LinkedIn and X. Contact Information: Salt Lake City, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BluSky AI Inc., a leading innovator in modular AI infrastructure, is proud to announce the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) to purchase approximately 15 acres of industrial land in Camp Verde, Arizona. The site includes existing electrical infrastructure capable of supporting 1.75 megawatts (MW), with plans to expand to 3.75 MW to meet growing demand. This strategic acquisition marks another milestone in BluSky AI's mission to deliver scalable, energy-efficient compute solutions across the Southwest. The Camp Verde location offers proximity to key interconnection points and favorable conditions, reinforcing BluSky AIs commitment to sustainable infrastructure growth. Trent DAmbrosio, CEO of BluSky AI Inc., shared his enthusiasm: "This letter of intent signals more than a land dealit represents our next leap forward. Camp Verde offers the perfect blend of infrastructure, geography, and community alignment. We're excited to expand our footprint here and bring our SkyMod technology closer to the edge, enabling smarter, more resilient AI ecosystems." The acquisition is expected to be finalized later this year, with groundbreaking targeted for mid-year 2026. Once complete, the expanded power capacity will support BluSky AIs next-generation modular data center deployments optimized for high-performance AI workloads. About BluSky AI Inc. BluSky AI Inc. designs and deploys modular AI data centersknown as SkyModsthat combine energy efficiency, scalability, and edge-ready performance. With a vision rooted in innovation and impact, BluSky AI serves clients across academia, enterprise, and research, empowering the future of intelligence infrastructure. BluSky AI Inc. continues to redefine the future of AI infrastructure with its plug-and-play SkyMod units, designed for rapid deployment, scalability, and ESG-aligned innovation. Trent DAmbrosio CEO, BluSky AI Inc. trentdambrosio@bluskyaidatacenters.com www.bluskyaidatacenters.com About BluSky AI Inc. Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, BluSky AI Inc. delivers modular, rapidly deployable data center infrastructure purpose-built for artificial intelligence. These next generation scalable AI Factories provide speed-to-market, and energy optimization for entities requiring high-performance infrastructure to support machine learning workloads. BluSky AI empowers small, mid-sized, enterprise, and academic partners from start-up to scale-up to drive innovation without compromise. Forward-Looking Statements: This news release includes certain forward-looking statements or information. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements with respect to the potential impact for the Company. There can be no assurance statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from anticipated in such statements. BluSky AI Inc. disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events except as required by applicable securities legislation. Completion of Hole C marks deepest drilled depth to-date VANCOUVER, July 29, 2025 - Star Copper Corp. (CSE:STCU)(OTCQX:STCUF)(FWB:SOP) ("Star Copper" or the "Company"), a critical minerals exploration and development company, is pleased to summarize the latest activity at the ongoing drill program at its flagship Star Project located within the Golden Triangle of British Columbia. Recognized as one of the most geologically endowed regions in the province, this fully funded campaign is focused on expanding the existing discovery across the Star Project. Company CEO Darryl Jones notes, "Our exploration team have advised us that together with results from Hole A (S-050), and copper-gold grades in historic holes (e.g., S-037), that the recently completed Hole C builds confidence in the continuity of copper mineralization at depth and supports the presence of a robust porphyry Cu (Au) system across the broader deposit." The 2025 drill campaign has been designed to test both the lateral and vertical continuity of mineralized zones previously identified from over $10 million in prior drilling and exploration campaigns. Drilling encompasses targets identified as near-surface oxide zones, deep porphyry-style mineralization, and structures associated with the "Star Fault" and "Dick Creek Fault." The Company is investigating beyond previously drilled depths and is nearing the midway point of up to 4,000 meters of drilling across six primary drill holes (Holes A-F) with holes A, B and C now complete with select samples regularly being prepped and transported for assaying. The Company has recently completed the drilling of Hole C (S-052) which was positioned ~100 metres north of Hole A (S-050), and 50 metres north of Hole B (S-051) to step out and verify copper continuity in the near-surface quartz monzodiorite. The hole further tested the Star Fault (~275m) and deeper high-grade gold intervals intersected in historic hole S-037 (12m @2.33g/t at 650m - 339712mE 6458422mN 000/-90). From surface to 70m, the hole remains largely within quartz monzodiorite, where pervasive oxidation and malachite-azurite coatings overprinting chalcopyrite forming a supergene zone similar to that seen in S-050. Below the oxide cap, primary chalcopyrite mineralization occurs as disseminations and within quartz-sulphide veinlets, with elevated chalcopyrite percentages up to 1% associated with potassic (K-feldspar) alteration halos and localized vein-breccia zones (See Figure 1). Figure 1-Hole C (S-052) at 34.9m. Star Copper 2025 The Star Fault was intersected from 255-276m, where gouge/clay-rich fault material influences structural control on mineralization. From ~350-550m, additional chalcopyrite mineralization was discontinuously encountered in association with strong silicification and brecciation within an alternating sequence of lithic tuff, cherty laminated sediments, and intrusive porphyry units. Hole C (S-052) represents the deepest drillhole to date on the Star property, reaching a total depth of 674m in a plagioclase phyric andesite (See Figure 2). Figure 2-Hole C (S-052) at 420.18m. Star Copper 2025 Overall, Hole C (S-052) confirms consistent chalcopyrite mineralization within the quartz monzodiorite phase above the Star fault, extends the northern supergene copper footprint, and strengthens the link between potassic alteration, fault architecture, and elevated chalcopyrite tenor at Star Main. Table 1 - Star 2025 Collar Table UTM 9N Hole_ID UTM_E UTM_N ELEV_M AZIMUTH DIP Depth S_050 339834 6458308 1124 270 -85 101 S_051 339770 6458307 1120 235 -85 539 S_052 339850 6458406 1153 240 -83 674 "We have 3 more holes to go while our surface fieldwork remains ongoing," notes Company CEO Jones. The overall work-to-date continues to build increasing certainty for a significant deposit at Star. As assay results are provided in the coming weeks, we look forward to advancing towards our goal for a regulatory compliant valuation of the entire project. Continued drilling in upcoming campaigns is now possible through our recently extended Multi-Year Area-Based (MYAB) exploration permits which allow for up to 200 holes, 5km of roads, and continued trenching and surface work across the property. The net result of all this effort should positively impact the Company's ability to source future capital to continue building shareholder value at this exciting project." Marketing Update Additionally, the Company is pleased to announce that it entered into an updated consulting services agreement dated effective as of June 28, 2025, with Upswitch Media Corp. ("Upswitch") to provide the Company with certain marketing and investor relations services to expand awareness of the Company's business and to communicate with the investment community. The services may include, among other things, engaging copywriters, designing ad content and campaigns promoting the Company, providing translation services, onboarding ad campaigns with publishers, tracking, organizing and executing the services through testing and analytic studies. The services will be provided and disseminated through a variety of news and investment community on-line communications channels and may further include print publications where applicable. Upswitch will commence providing the services immediately for an initial term of 30 days. In consideration of the services, and pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreement, the Company has agreed to pay Upswitch an aggregate fee of $500,000. Jeff Gillis, the principal of Upswitch, is located at 2709B 43rd Ave., Suite 1013, in the city of Vernon in the province of British Columbia and will act as primary representative and service coordinator. Mr. Gillis may be contacted at 1-604-373-5875 and info@upswitchmedia.com. To the best of the Company's knowledge, Upswitch and Mr. Gillis do not currently own securities in the capital of the Company Qualified Person Jeremy Hanson, P. Geo., a Qualified Person as that term is defined under NI 43-101, is an independent contractor of the Company and has reviewed and approved the technical aspects of this news release. On Behalf of the Board of Directors ~Darryl Jones~ Darryl Jones CEO, President & Director Star Copper Corp. About Star Copper Corp. (CSE:STCU)(OTCQX:STCUF)(FWB: SOP / WKN A416ME) Star Copper Corp. is an exploration and development company focused on developing high-potential copper projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions. The Company aims to advance its British Columbian flagship Star Project where significant exploration work including historical drilling has confirmed open mineralization at depth and in all directions. Star Copper's strategic plans include geological mapping and geophysical surveys to refine existing targets,diamond drilling programs to test high-priority zones, environmental baseline studies and permitting groundwork alongside data analysis and resource modeling to support a future resource estimate prepared in accordance with NI 43-101. The Company further plans to advance its Indata Project with follow-up drilling to expand on previous high-grade copper and gold intercepts, trenching and surface sampling to delineate mineralized zones, and infrastructure improvements for site accessibility and operations. With a commitment to sustainable development and value creation, Star Copper aims to position itself to support surging industrial demand to meet growing global electrification needs. For more information visit: www.starcopper.com and to sign up for free news alerts please go to https://starcopper.com/news/news-alerts/, or follow us on X (formerly Twitter),Facebook or LinkedIn. More information in respect of the project, including historical drilling, is available under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and/or in the Company's February 26, 2025 technical report. Investor Relations Star Copper Corp. Email: info@starcopper.com Web: https://starcopper.com/ Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipate", "expects" and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding exploration of the Company's flagship Star Project and the potential thereof. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include, but are not limited to, the early stage nature of the Star Project, the inherently unpredictable nature of resource exploration, market conditions and the risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect, and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward- looking statements as expressly required by applicable law. SOURCE: Star Copper Corp. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Historic deposit of 100,000 tonnes - 3.4 % copper & 1.5 % zinc New staking 25 km northwest of Flin Flon copper, zinc, gold mines Highway 106 passes through claim block Vancouver, July 29, 2025 - Searchlight Resources Inc. (TSXV: SCLT) (OTC Pink: SCLTF) ("Searchlight" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the staking of the Otonadah Lake and Cam copper- zinc targets, located 25 km northwest of Creighton, Saskatchewan and Flin Flon, Manitoba. During a recent Saskatchewan claim reopening, Searchlight staked Claims MC00022357 and MC00022763, covering 1,465.5 hectares within the Flin Flon Greenstone Belt, which hosts the world-class copper-zinc-gold VMS deposits at Flin Flon (Map 1). The new claims include the historic Otonadah Lake Copper Deposit and exploration shaft, described by BHP-Utah Mines Ltd. in 1992, as containing 100,000 tonnes grading 3.4 % copper and 1.5 % zinc. "The new claims align with Searchlight's exploration strategy of generating new critical element projects by staking," stated Stephen Wallace, P. Geo, President and CEO of Searchlight. "It is exciting that Searchlight was able to stake the Otonadah Lake claims with this historical copper and zinc deposit, within 25 km of the Flin Flon VMS Mines." The Otonadah Lake prospect consists of a thick gossan overlying sulphide replacement bodies, in garnet-biotite gneiss of the Kisseynew Group. Five long trenches expose an area 70 -150 feet wide (21.3 - 45.7 m), consisting of jointed and schistose gneiss that hosts pyrrhotite, pyrite and minor disseminated magnetite, sphalerite and chalcopyrite mineralization. Several semi-massive sulphide bodies were observed with reported chalcopyrite. The new claims also include the CAM Option Cu Showing, with 7 trenches over a strike length of 701 m, and width up to 7 m. Massive pyrrhotite, plus chalcopyrite and sphalerite, were reported in the trench dumps. The claims have excellent infrastructure and access, located 25 km from Flin Flon, a significant mining center. The Otonadah Lake prospect is located 2 km north of Highway 106, and the Cam prospect is within 200 m of the road from Highway 106 to Tyrell Lake. The claims are now part of Searchlight's Flin Flon area portfolio, which includes Bootleg Lake and Robinson Creek Gold projects. Map 1. Searchlight Claims MC00022357 and MC00022763 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9828/260457_456fd031742c6be3_002full.jpg Future Exploration Searchlight is planning future exploration at both Otonadah Lake and Cam copper-zinc targets, including prospecting, MMI sampling and airborne geophysics. Sources Otonadah Lake Copper Deposit: Gonzales, A.M. and St. Pierre, M. 1992. Geological, Geochemical, Drilling and Geophysical Report on the Vass Property, Saskatchewan, NTS63 L/16. Work Performed June 8, 1991 - July 30, 1991, and January 5, 1992 - February 29, 1992, for BHP-Utah Mines Ltd. Saskatchewan Assessment File No. 63L16-0152, Saskatchewan Energy and Resources. Otonadah Lake Copper Showing: Saskatchewan Mineral Deposit Index (SMDI) Report #0302 CAM Copper Showing: Saskatchewan Mineral Deposit Index (SMDI) Report #0301. Disclaimer The BHP-Utah report by Gonzales and St. Pierre (1992) uses the term "deposit" and was prepared before the introduction of National Instrument 43-101-Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects This historic deposit is considered relevant as Searchlight uses historical data as a guide to plan future exploration programs. The assumptions, parameters and methods used to calculate this historical deposit are not known to Searchlight and are not comparable to current CIM standards and definitions. The Searchlight Qualified Person (QP) has not undertaken sufficient independent investigation of the deposit estimates, nor has the QP independently analyzed the results of the previous exploration work in order to verify the deposit, nor has the QP completed the required work to make the deposit a current resource. The QP has not made any attempt to re-classify the deposit according to current NI 43-101 standards and CIM definitions, and the Company is not treating the deposit as current. In order for these resources to be brought to current standards, the Company will be required to conduct additional drilling on the Otonadah Lake Property. The Company is not treating this deposit as current mineral resources or mineral reserves as defined in NI 43-101. Qualified Person The technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 and reviewed and approved by Stephen Wallace P.Geo., President of Searchlight Resources. About Searchlight Resources - Where the Critical Elements Supply Chain Begins Searchlight Resources Inc. (TSXV: SCLT) (OTC Pink: SCLTF) is a Canadian mineral exploration and development company focused on Saskatchewan, Canada, which has been ranked as the top location for mining investment in Canada by the Fraser Institute. The Company's exploration model of Project Generation, coupled with Targeted Exploration, focuses on battery minerals and gold throughout the province. On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Stephen Wallace" Stephen Wallace, President, CEO and Director SEARCHLIGHT RESOURCES INC. Forward-Looking Statements Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the Company's limited operating history and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information. NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260457 57.8 G/T GOLD AND 2, July 29th, 2025 - Mithril Silver and Gold Ltd. ("Mithril" or the "Company") (TSXV: MSG) (ASX: MTH) is pleased to provide more exploration results for multiple targets at Mithril's district scale Copalquin property, Durango State, Mexico. Highlights New Target 6 high-grade assays received from channel sampling at historic Santa Cruz underground mine High-grade surface channel sampling continues to expand Target 5 ahead of first drilling mid-August 2025 Mineralised corridors now cover 2 km x 8 km over 1,200 m elevation profile within the 70km mining concession area Backed by its recent capital raise, Mithril is fully funded to complete 45,000 metres of drilling over the next 12 months, with a third drill rig set to be added in early 2026 Highlight channel sample results from surface and underground at Targets 5 and 6 0.70 m @ 57.8 g/t gold, 2,120 g/t silver (814673; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1, T6) 0.80 m @ 17.4 g/t gold, 603 g/t silver (814674; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1, T6) 0.50 m @ 8.42 g/t gold, 188 g/t silver (814669; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1, T6) 0.70 m @ 23.2 g/t gold, 755 g/t silver (814665; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.50 m @ 28.1 g/t gold, 233 g/t silver (814681; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.50 m @ 14.35 g/t gold, 584 g/t silver (814658; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.70 m @ 9.06 g/t gold, 421 g/t silver (814664; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.55 m @ 7.68 g/t gold, 437 g/t silver (814685; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.80 m @ 7.11 g/t gold, 303 g/t silver (814657; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.50 m @ 8.28 g/t gold, 77 g/t silver (814660; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.50 m @ 27.9 g/t gold, 14 g/t silver (814239; surface, La Maquina, T5) 0.30 m @ 9.60 g/t gold, 608 g/t silver (814194; surface, La Cucaracha, T5) "The spectacular high-grade results from Target 6, including 57.8 g/t gold and 2,120 g/t silver over 0.7m, underscore the exceptional potential of the Copalquin District," commented John Skeet, Managing Director & CEO. "Our talented team continues to uncover new mineralised zones across multiple targets, and the large system is rapidly expanding. Additionally, with roads completed and drill pads in place at Target 5, we are prepared to launch aggressive drilling in August 2025. The consistent scale and high-grades we're encountering across the district solidifies Copalquin as one of the most compelling emerging gold-silver camps in Mexico's Sierra Madre trend. With strong backing from our recent equity raise, we're strategically funded to unlock the full potential of the district through accelerated exploration." COPALQUIN GOLD-SILVER DISTRICT, DURANGO STATE, MEXICO Click Image To View Full Size Figure 1 - Copalquin District location map, locations of mining and exploration activity and local infrastructure. With 100 historic underground gold-silver mines and workings plus 198 surface workings/pits throughout 70km2 of mining concession area, Copalquin is an entire mining district with high-grade exploration results and a maiden JORC resource. To date there are several target areas in the district with one already hosting a high-grade gold-silver JORC mineral resource estimate (MRE) at the Target 1 area (El Refugio-La Soledad)1 and a NI 43-101 Technical Report filed on SEDAR+, supported by a conceptional underground mining study completed on the maiden resource in early 2022 and metallurgical test work (see ASX Announcement 25 February 2022). There is considerable strike and depth potential to increase the resource at El Refugio and at other target areas across the district, plus the underlying geologic system that is responsible for the widespread gold-silver mineralisation. With the district-wide gold and silver occurrences and rapid exploration success, it is clear the Copalquin District is developing into another significant gold-silver district like the many other districts in this prolific Sierra Madre Gold-Silver Trend of Mexico. Click Image To View Full Size Figure 2 LiDAR identified historic workings across the 70km2 district. Current drilling locations at Targets 1 and Zaragoza mine area, high priority drill target area of La Constancia-El Jabali (Target 3) and Target 5. Several new areas highlighted across the district for follow-up work including recently sampled Target 6 Copalquin District Exploration Progress Update Surficial and underground channel sampling at Target 3, 5 and 6 Areas have continued to deliver excellent results, with several channel samples intersecting high-grade gold and silver within broad, outcropping vein systems (Figures 2, 3). Drilling is continuing at Target 1 ahead for the resource update for this target in the second half of 2025. The second drill is currently completing a program of holes at the Zaragoza historic mine area near the eastern side of the Target 5 area before commencing the first 5,000 metre drill program at Target 5 in August 2025. Click Image To View Full Size Figure 3 Property-wide channel sampling results for the middle and south district sections within ~50% of the 70 km2 mining concession area covering the Copalquin District Target 6 is a recently defined zone located 1.4 km east of Target 3 (see Figure 3). Within the Target area lies the historic Santa Cruz mine which hosts east-west trending, subvertical mineralized quartz veins and northwest trending quartz breccias. Sampling of the underground workings has yielded numerous high-grade gold and silver listed below (see Figure 4), including 0.70 m @ 57.8 g/t gold, 2,120 g/t silver and 0.70 m @ 23.2 g/t gold, 755 g/t silver. Mapping and sampling of the Target 6 area is ongoing. 0.70 m @ 57.8 g/t gold, 2,120 g/t silver (814673; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1) 0.70 m @ 23.2 g/t gold, 755 g/t silver (814665; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.50 m @ 28.1 g/t gold, 233 g/t silver (814681; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.80 m @ 17.4 g/t gold, 603 g/t silver (814674; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1) 0.50 m @ 14.35 g/t gold, 584 g/t silver (814658; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.70 m @ 9.06 g/t gold, 421 g/t silver (814664; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.55 m @ 7.68 g/t gold, 437 g/t silver (814685; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.80 m @ 7.11 g/t gold, 303 g/t silver (814657; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.50 m @ 8.42 g/t gold, 188 g/t silver (814669; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1) 0.50 m @ 8.28 g/t gold, 77 g/t silver (814660; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.50 m @ 3.94 g/t gold, 196 g/t silver (814683; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.90 m @ 4.50 g/t gold, 94.2 g/t silver (814659; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.70 m @ 1.78 g/t gold, 102 g/t silver (814687; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.50 m @ 2.18 g/t gold, 56.9 g/t silver (814679; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.50 m @ 1.45 g/t gold, 76.6 g/t silver (814663; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) m @ 1.04 g/t gold, 64.1 g/t silver (814672; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1) Click Image To View Full Size Figure 4 Channel sample results at the newly developing Target 6 (Santa Cruz historic mine area) Ongoing mapping at Target 5 - including the La Cucaracha, La Maquina, Apomal and Veta Azul- continues to identify additional vein systems and underground workings, significantly expanding the Target 5 area both along strike and across strike (Figure 5). Several of the mapped veins display good continuity, with some traceable for over 600 metres. The vein system is predominantly striking northwest-southeast with veins in the southwest of the target area dipping to the southwest and veins in the northeast dipping to the northeast (Figure 5). Target 5 veins mapped to date, are hosted in granodiorite and are situated at a lower elevation in the system at 650 - 900 m compared with the mineralised zones at Target 1 (900 - 1,150 m), Target 2 (1,500 - 1,700 m) and Target 6 (~1800 m). Click Image To View Full Size Figure 5 Channel sample results and vein traces in the Target 5 Area in the south west corner of the District Surface and underground channel sampling continues to return anomalous gold and silver values, with numerous assay results still pending. Complete sample results are presented in Table 2. Significant gold and silver Target 5 channel sampling highlights include: 0.50 m @ 27.9 g/t gold, 14 g/t silver (814239; surface, La Maquina) 0.30 m @ 9.60 g/t gold, 608 g/t silver (814194; surface, La Cucaracha) 0.20 m @ 2.02 g/t gold, 403 g/t silver (814198; surface, La Cucaracha) 0.50 m @ 3.54 g/t gold, 11.3 g/t silver (814212; surface, La Maquina) m @ 1.08 g/t gold, 162 g/t silver (814224; surface, La Maquina) 0.50 m @ 1.04 g/t gold, 158 g/t silver (814191; surface, La Cucaracha) 0.50 m @ 0.28 g/t gold, 143 g/t silver (814220; surface, La Maquina) Base metal sulphides have been observed in veins at La Maquina (Figure 5). 1.00m @ 0.09 g/t gold, 70 g/t silver, 1.22 % Pb, 1.83 % Zn (814260; surface, La Maquina) An exploration road to the Target 5 area to provide access for drill pads is complete. Drilling is expected to commence in Target 5 in early August, 2025. Mapping and sampling of Target 3, which includes the Jabali, Constancia, San Antonio, and Guadalupe mines, has revealed a network of mineralized veins (Figure 6). While many of these veins exhibit limited continuity, they occur in various orientations, with a dominant northwest strike over a cumulative strike length of 1km. Channel sampling from both surface and underground workings has returned numerous high-grade gold and silver values, highlighting the potential of the area. Notably, the Jabali mine hosts veins characterized by abundant amethyst, suggesting a distinct mineralogical signature that may be useful for further vectoring. Mapping and sampling will continue in the area to fully develop drill targeting. Complete sample results are presented in Table 2. Significant gold and silver Target 3 channel sampling highlights include: 0.70 m @ 1.41 g/t gold, 66.6 g/t silver (814587; surface, Jabali, T3) Click Image To View Full Size Figure 6 Channel sample results and vein traces in the Target 3 Area ABOUT THE COPALQUIN GOLD SILVER PROJECT The Copalquin mining district is located in Durango State, Mexico and covers an entire mining district of 70km2 containing several dozen historic gold and silver mines and workings, ten of which had notable production. The district is within the Sierra Madre Gold Silver Trend which extends north-south along the western side of Mexico and hosts many world-class gold and silver deposits. Multiple mineralisation events, young intrusives thought to be system-driving heat sources, widespread alteration together with extensive surface vein exposures and dozens of historic mine workings, identify the Copalquin mining district as a major epithermal centre for Gold and Silver. Within 15 months of drilling in the Copalquin District, Mithril delivered a maiden JORC mineral resource estimate demonstrating the high-grade gold and silver resource potential for the district. This maiden resource is detailed below (see ASX release 17 November 2021)^ and a NI 43-101 Technical Report filed on SEDAR+ Indicated 691 kt @5.43 g/t gold, 114 g/t silver for 121,000 oz gold plus 2,538,000 oz silver Inferred 1,725 kt @4.55 g/t gold, 152 g/t silver for 252,000 oz gold plus 8,414,000 oz silver (using a cut-off grade of 2.0 g/t AuEq*) 28.6% of the resource tonnage is classified as indicated Table 1 Mineral resource estimate El Refugio - La Soledad using a cut-off grade of 2.0 g/t AuEq* Tonnes (kt) Tonnes (kt) Gold (g/t) Silver (g/t) Gold Eq.* (g/t) Gold (koz) Silver (koz) Gold Eq.* (koz) El Refugio Indicated 691 5.43 114.2 7.06 121 2,538 157 Inferred 1,447 4.63 137.1 6.59 215 6,377 307 La Soledad Indicated - - - - - - - Inferred 278 4.12 228.2 7.38 37 2,037 66 Total Indicated 691 5.43 114.2 7.06 121 2,538 157 Inferred 1,725 4.55 151.7 6.72 252 8,414 372 * In determining the gold equivalent (AuEq.) grade for reporting, a gold:silver price ratio of 70:1 was determined, using the formula: AuEq grade = Au grade + ((Ag grade/70) x (Ag recovery/Au recovery)). The metal prices used to determine the 70:1 ratio are the cumulative average prices for 2021: gold USD1,798.34 and silver: USD25.32 (actual is 71:1) from kitco.com. At this early stage, the metallurgical recoveries were assumed to be equal (93%). Subsequent preliminary metallurgical test work produced recoveries of 91% for silver and 96% for gold (ASX Announcement 25 February 2022) and these will be used when the resource is updated in the future. In the Company's opinion there is reasonable potential for both gold and silver to be extracted and sold. ^ The information in this report that relates to Mineral Resources or Ore Reserves is based on information provided in the following ASX announcement: 17 Nov 2021 - MAIDEN JORC RESOURCE 529,000 OUNCES @ 6.81G/T (AuEq*), which includes the full JORC MRE report, also available on the Mithril Resources Limited Website. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original market announcement and that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the relevant market announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed. The company confirms that the form and context in which the Competent Person's findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcement. Mining study (conceptual) and metallurgical test work supports the development of the El Refugio-La Soledad resource with conventional underground mining methods indicated as being appropriate and with high gold-silver recovery to produce metal on-site with conventional processing. Mithril is currently exploring in the Copalquin District to expand the resource footprint, demonstrating its multi-million-ounce gold and silver potential. Mithril has an exclusive option to purchase 100% interest in the Copalquin mining concessions by paying US$10M on or any time before 7 August 2028. -ENDS- Released with the authority of the Board. For further information contact: John Skeet Managing Director and CEO jskeet@mithrilsilvergold.com +61 435 766 809 NIKLI COMMUNICATIONS Corporate Communications liz@mithrilsilvergold.com nicole@mithrilsilvergold.com Competent Persons Statement - JORC The information in this announcement that relates to metallurgical test results, mineral processing and project development and study work has been compiled by Mr John Skeet who is Mithril's CEO and Managing Director. Mr Skeet is a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. This is a Recognised Professional Organisation (RPO) under the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Code. Mr Skeet has sufficient experience of relevance to the styles of mineralisation and the types of deposits under consideration, and to the activities undertaken, to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. Mr Skeet consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on information in the form and context in which it appears. The Australian Securities Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or adequacy of this release. The information in this announcement that relates to sampling techniques and data, exploration results and geological interpretation for Mithril's Mexican project, has been compiled by Mr Patrick Loury who is Mithril's Project Consultant. Mr Loury is a member of the American Institute of Professional Geologists and a Certified Professional Geologist (CPG). This is a Recognised Professional Organisation (RPO) under the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Code. Mr Loury has sufficient experience of relevance to the styles of mineralisation and the types of deposits under consideration, and to the activities undertaken, to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. Mr Loury consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on information in the form and context in which it appears. The information in this announcement that relates to Mineral Resources is reported by Mr Rodney Webster, Principal Geologist at AMC Consultants Pty Ltd (AMC), who is a Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. The report was peer reviewed by Andrew Proudman, Principal Consultant at AMC. Mr Webster is acting as the Competent Person, as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, for the reporting of the Mineral Resource estimate. A site visit was carried out by Jose Olmedo a geological consultant with AMC, in September 2021 to observe the drilling, logging, sampling and assay database. Mr Webster consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on information in the form and context in which it appears The Australian Securities Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or adequacy of this release. Qualified Persons - NI 43-101 Scientific and technical information in this Report has been reviewed and approved by Mr John Skeet (FAUSIMM, CP) Mithril's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. Mr John Skeet is a qualified person within the meaning of NI 43-101. Table 2 Complete list of surface and underground sample sssay results reported in this announcement Sample Easting Northing Elevation Sample Type Target Location Width m Au ppm Ag ppm AuEq* ppm 814581 293074 2824214 1504 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.50 0.04 1.1 0.06 814582 293140 2824278 1531 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.65 0.06 1.5 0.08 814583 293140 2824278 1531 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.75 0.19 3.9 0.25 814584 293140 2824278 1531 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.60 0.04 1.2 0.06 814585 293140 2824278 1531 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.70 0.03 1.8 0.06 814586 293162 2824334 1535 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.50 0.03 0.7 0.04 814587 292343 2824643 1360 Surface 3 El Jabali W 0.70 1.41 66.6 2.36 814588 292338 2824634 1375 Surface 3 El Jabali W 0.95 0.95 26.7 1.33 814589 293098 2824309 1547 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.75 1.09 43.2 1.70 814591 293077 2824325 1561 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.50 0.03 1.3 0.05 814185 287837 2822605 772 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.02 3.2 0.07 814186 287787 2822602 674 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.70 0.22 24.1 0.57 814188 287786 2822602 851 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.02 814190 287667 2822626 781 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.03 4.6 0.10 814191 287637 2822630 804 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 1.04 158.0 3.30 814192 287709 2822521 838 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.04 3.2 0.08 814194 287703 2822518 832 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.30 9.60 608.0 18.29 814195 287846 2822431 851 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.30 0.05 14.0 0.25 814196 287858 2822426 811 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.30 0.07 30.5 0.51 814197 287875 2822417 808 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.30 0.20 23.7 0.54 814198 287894 2822412 823 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.20 2.02 403.0 7.78 814199 287901 2822405 812 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.06 4.6 0.12 814201 287968 2822344 809 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.01 1.0 0.03 814536 292798 2823755 1230 Surface 3 Target 3 1.00 0.04 0.6 0.05 814537 292798 2823756 1230 Surface 3 Target 3 1.00 0.01 0.5 0.02 814538 292797 2823757 1230 Surface 3 Target 3 1.20 0.01 0.5 0.01 814539 292860 2823830 1249 Surface 3 Target 3 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.01 814541 292862 2823828 1250 Surface 3 Target 3 0.90 0.01 0.5 0.01 814542 292862 2823826 1250 Surface 3 Target 3 0.60 0.02 0.5 0.03 814543 292653 2823836 1255 Surface 3 Target 3 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.01 814544 292383 2823798 1259 Surface 3 Target 3 0.60 0.09 15.6 0.31 814545 292054 2823921 1207 Surface 3 Target 3 1.00 0.01 2.0 0.04 814546 292067 2823936 1206 Surface 3 Target 3 0.50 0.08 16.1 0.31 814202 288943 2822716 729 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.90 0.17 6.5 0.26 814203 288939 2822726 684 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.05 0.6 0.06 814204 288938 2822725 684 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 1.1 0.03 814205 288938 2822724 684 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 0.9 0.03 814206 288937 2822724 684 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 0.5 0.02 814207 288947 2822800 711 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.02 814208 288955 2822759 731 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.02 0.5 0.03 814209 288957 2822758 731 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.02 814210 288947 2822759 745 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.70 0.01 1.1 0.02 814211 288947 2822758 745 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.70 0.01 1.2 0.03 814212 288951 2822842 747 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 3.54 11.3 3.70 814213 288957 2822851 745 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.20 2.6 0.23 814214 288821 2822970 732 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.01 814215 288819 2822963 729 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.03 2.6 0.07 814216 288742 2822997 762 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.02 6.0 0.10 814217 288720 2822992 733 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.03 5.1 0.10 814218 288799 2822898 743 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.02 0.5 0.03 814219 288802 2822900 743 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.8 0.02 814220 288802 2822912 723 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.28 143.0 2.32 814221 288813 2822915 712 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 1.0 0.03 814223 288814 2822916 712 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 0.6 0.02 814224 288814 2822917 712 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 1.08 162.0 3.39 814226 288817 2822935 658 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.86 93.3 2.20 814228 288815 2822939 720 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.07 16.2 0.30 814229 288816 2822940 720 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.16 26.2 0.54 814230 288816 2822940 720 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.01 2.4 0.05 814231 288798 2822807 635 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.02 1.6 0.04 814232 288898 2822786 727 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.06 11.4 0.22 814233 288900 2822774 686 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.60 0.05 1.6 0.07 814234 288631 2823197 822 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.02 0.5 0.02 814235 288512 2823155 825 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 2.5 0.04 814236 288599 2823120 799 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.02 814237 288602 2823113 798 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.70 0.01 0.5 0.02 814238 288577 2823092 780 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 0.6 0.02 814239 288575 2823091 780 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 27.90 14.0 28.10 814240 288559 2823031 765 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.7 0.02 814241 288579 2822957 749 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.17 3.5 0.22 814242 289183 2822777 796 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.05 1.2 0.07 814243 289185 2822775 796 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 1.3 0.03 814244 289205 2822744 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.08 6.2 0.16 814245 289206 2822745 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 1.1 0.03 814246 289206 2822746 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 2.1 0.04 814247 289207 2822747 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 2.7 0.06 814248 289207 2822747 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 3.0 0.05 814249 289208 2822748 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 0.8 0.02 814251 289204 2822754 794 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 1.0 0.03 814253 289205 2822755 794 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 0.5 0.02 814254 289205 2822756 794 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.03 1.0 0.05 814255 289216 2822717 781 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 6.2 0.10 814256 289215 2822716 781 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 3.7 0.06 814257 289215 2822715 781 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 15.8 0.24 814258 289213 2822698 779 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.90 0.05 10.4 0.20 814259 289213 2822698 779 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.90 0.07 16.3 0.30 814260 289237 2822676 811 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.09 70.0 1.09 814261 289239 2822674 811 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.04 11.9 0.21 814547 292075 2823871 1225 Surface 3 2L2 1.00 0.01 0.7 0.02 814548 292076 2823871 1225 Surface 3 2L2 1.00 0.01 0.6 0.02 814549 292077 2823870 1225 Surface 3 2L2 0.80 0.01 0.5 0.01 814651 292085 2823868 1230 Surface 3 2L2 1.00 0.01 0.5 0.01 814652 292086 2823868 1231 Surface 3 2L2 1.00 0.01 0.5 0.02 814653 292086 2823868 1232 Surface 3 2L2 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.02 814654 292072 2823896 1210 Surface 3 2L2 1.00 0.02 0.6 0.02 814655 292025 2823829 1213 Surface 3 2L2 0.80 0.01 1.6 0.03 814656 292050 2823801 1239 Surface 3 2L2 0.50 0.01 1.0 0.03 814657 294623 2824704 1785 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.80 7.11 303.0 11.44 814658 294623 2824703 1785 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 14.35 584.0 22.69 814659 294620 2824704 1784 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.90 4.50 94.2 5.85 814660 294609 2824707 1791 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 8.28 77.0 9.38 814661 294609 2824707 1792 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.70 0.48 19.4 0.76 814662 294609 2824708 1792 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 1.10 0.21 4.0 0.27 814663 294609 2824709 1791 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 1.45 76.6 2.54 814664 294612 2824709 1790 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.70 9.06 421.0 15.07 814665 294610 2824709 1793 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.70 23.20 755.0 33.99 814666 294618 2824708 1796 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.50 0.32 15.9 0.55 814667 294617 2824708 1797 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.50 0.09 4.8 0.15 814668 294617 2824708 1797 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 1.20 0.07 2.1 0.10 814669 294617 2824707 1797 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.50 8.42 188.0 11.11 814670 294617 2824706 1797 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.50 0.34 15.0 0.55 814671 294611 2824708 1796 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.60 0.40 16.1 0.63 814672 294610 2824708 1796 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 1.00 1.04 64.1 1.96 814673 294609 2824708 1796 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.70 57.80 2120.0 88.09 814674 294606 2824708 1796 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.80 17.40 603.0 26.01 814676 294587 2824714 1788 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 1.00 0.09 6.0 0.18 814677 294588 2824714 1788 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 1.00 0.16 8.0 0.28 814678 294590 2824713 1788 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.50 0.40 38.1 0.95 814679 294569 2824693 1771 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 2.18 56.9 2.99 814681 294568 2824693 1171 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 28.10 233.0 31.43 814682 294601 2824710 1785 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.90 0.13 3.7 0.18 814683 294600 2824710 1786 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 3.94 196.0 6.74 814684 294600 2824709 1786 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 1.00 0.21 4.6 0.28 814685 294591 2824712 1787 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.55 7.68 437.0 13.92 814686 294584 2824716 1787 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.60 0.20 9.8 0.34 814687 294584 2824716 1787 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.70 1.78 102.0 3.23 814688 294584 2824715 1787 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.60 0.50 26.6 0.88 JORC Code, 2012 Edition - Table 1 Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Sampling techniques Nature and quality of sampling (eg cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of sampling. Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representativity and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used. Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public Report. In cases where 'industry standard' work has been done this would be relatively simple (eg 'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (eg submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information. Drill core samples are cut lengthwise with a diamond saw. Intervals are nominally 1 m but may vary between 0.5 m to 1.5 m based on geologic criteria. The same side of the core is always sent to sample (left side of saw). Reported intercepts are calculated as either potentially underground mineable (100m down hole) or as potentially open-pit mineable (near surface). Potentially underground mineable intercepts are calculated as length weighted averages of material greater than or equal to 1 g/t AuEQ_70 allowing up to 2m of internal dilution. Potentially open-pit mineable intercepts are calculated as length weighted averages of material greater than or equal to 0.25 g/t AuEQ_70 allowing for up to 2m of internal dilution. Rock Sawn Channel samples underground and surface are collected with the assistance of a handheld portable saw. The channels are 2.5 to 3cm deep and 6-8 cm wide along continuous lines oriented perpendicular to the mineralized structure. The samples are as representative as possible Rock Sawn Channel surface samples were surveyed with a Handheld GPS then permanently mark with an aluminium tag and red colour spray across the strike of the outcrop over 1 metre. Samples are as representative as possible Rock Sawn Channel underground samples were located after a compass and tape with the mine working having a surveyed control point at the portal, then permanently marked with an aluminium tag and red colour spray oriented perpendicular to the mineralized structure. Samples are as representative as possible Soil sampling has been carried out by locating pre-planned points by handheld GPS and digging to below the first colour-change in the soil (or a maximum of 50 cm). In the arid environment there is a 1 - 10 cm organic horizon and a 10 - 30 cm B horizon above the regolith. Samples are sieved to -80 mesh in the field. Samples are collected on a 20 m x 50 m grid or every 20 m on N-S lines 50 m apart. These samples are considered representative of the medium being sampled and lines are appropriately oriented to the nearly E-W structural trend. Drilling techniques Drill type (eg core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details (eg core diameter, triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc). Drilling is done with MP500 man-portable core rigs capable of drilling HQ size core to depths of 350-400m (depending on ground conditions), reducing to NQ size core for greater depths. Core is recovered in a standard tube. Drill sample recovery Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results assessed. Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the samples. Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse material. Drill recovery is measured based on measured length of core divided by length of drill run. Recovery in holes CDH-001 through CDH-025 and holes CDH-032 through CDH-077 was always above 90% in the mineralized zones. Detailed core recovery data are maintained in the project database. Holes CDH-026 through CDH-031 had problems with core recovery in highly fractured, clay rich breccia zones. There is no adverse relationship between recovery and grade identified to date. Logging Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies. Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel, etc) photography. The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged. Geotechnical and geological logging of the drill core takes place on racks in the company core shed. Core samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies. Core logging is both qualitative or quantitative in nature. Photos are taken of each box of core before samples are cut. Photos of cut core intervals are taken after sampling. Core is wetted to improve visibility of features in the photos. All core has been logged and photographed. Rock sawn channel samples are marked, measured and photographed at location Soil samples are recorded at location, logged and described Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken. If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc and whether sampled wet or dry. For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique. Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representativity of samples. Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in situ material collected, including for instance results for field duplicate/second-half sampling. Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled. Core is sawn and half core is taken for sample. Samples are prepared using ALS Minerals Prep-31 crushing, splitting and pulverizing. This is appropriate for the type of deposit being explored. Visual review to assure that the cut core is of the core is performed to assure representativity of samples. Crushed core duplicates are split/collected by the laboratory and submitted for assay (1 in 30 samples) Sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled. Rock sawn channel samples and soil samples are prepared using ALS Minerals Prep-31 crushing, splitting and pulverizing. This is appropriate for the type of deposit being explored. Quality of assay data and laboratory tests The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or total. For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc, the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc. Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks, duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have been established. Samples are assayed for gold using ALS Minerals Au-AA25 method a 30 g fire assay with an AA finish. This is considered a total assay technique. Samples are assayed for silver using ALS Minerals ME-ICP61 method. Over limits are assayed by AgOG63 and AgGRAV21. These are considered a total assay technique. Standards and blanks are inserted at a rate of one per every 25 samples and one per every 40 samples, respectively. Pulp duplicate sampling is undertaken for 3% of all samples (see above). External laboratory checks will be conducted as sufficient samples are collected. Levels of accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have not yet been established. Certified Reference Materials - Rock Labs and CDN CRMs have been used throughout the project including, low (~2 g/t Au), medium (~9 g/t Au) and high (~18g/t Au and ~40 g/t Au). Results are automatically checked on data import into the BEDROCK database to fall within 2 standard deviations of the expected value. Samples with significant amounts of observed visible gold are also assayed by AuSCR21, a screen assay that analyses gold in both the milled pulp and in the residual oversize from pulverization. This has been done for holes CDH-075 and CDH-077. Verification of sampling and assaying The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel. The use of twinned holes. Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols. Discuss any adjustment to assay data. The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel has not been conducted. A re-assay program of pulp duplicates is currently in progress. MTH has drilled one twin hole. Hole CDH-072, reported in the 15/6/2021 announcement, is a twin of holes EC-002 and UC-03. Results are comparable. Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols are maintained in the company's core facility. Assay data have not been adjusted other than applying length weighted averages to reported intercepts. Location of data points Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral Resource estimation. Specification of the grid system used. Quality and adequacy of topographic control. Drill collar coordinates are currently located by handheld GPS. Precise survey of hole locations is planned. Downhole surveys of hole deviation are recorded using a Reflex Multishot tool for all holes. A survey measurement is first collected at 15 meters downhole, and then every 50 meters until the end of the hole. Locations for holes CDH-001 through CDH-048 and CDH-051 through CDH-148 have been surveyed with differential GPS to a sub 10 cm precision. Hole CDH-005 was not surveyed UTM/UPS WGS 84 zone 13 N High quality topographic control from LiDAR imagery and orthophotos covers the entire project area. Data spacing and distribution Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results. Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied. Whether sample compositing has been applied. Data spacing is appropriate for the reporting of Exploration Results. The Resource estimation re-printed in this announcement was originally released on 17 Nov 2021 No sample compositing has been applied. Orientation of data in relation to geological structure Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the deposit type. If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material. Cut lines are marked on the core by the geologists to assure that the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures. This is reasonably well observed in the core and is appropriate to the deposit type. The relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised structures is not considered to have introduced a sampling bias. Rock sawn channel samples are cut perpendicular to the observed vein orientation wherever possible Sample security The measures taken to ensure sample security. Samples are stored in a secure core storage facility until they are shipped off site by small aircraft and delivered directly to ALS Global. Audits or reviews The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data. A review with spot checks was conducted by AMC in conjunction with the resource estimate published 17 Nov 2021. Results were satisfactory to AMC. Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Mineral tenement and land tenure status Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental settings. The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the area. Concessions at Copalquin No. Concession Concession Title number Area (Ha) Location 1 LA SOLEDAD 52033 6 Tamazula, Durango, Mexico 2 EL COMETA 164869 36 Tamazula, Durango, Mexico 3 SAN MANUEL 165451 36 Tamazula, Durango, Mexico 4 COPALQUIN 178014 20 Tamazula, Durango, Mexico 5 EL SOL 236130 6,000 Tamazula, Durango and Badiraguato, Sinaloa, Mexico 6 EL CORRAL 236131 907.3243 Tamazula, Durango and Badiraguato, Sinaloa, Mexico Exploration done by other parties Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties. Previous exploration by Bell Coast Capital Corp. and UC Resources was done in the late 1990's and in 2005 - 2007. Work done by these companies is historic and non-JORC compliant. Mithril uses these historic data only as a general guide and will not incorporate work done by these companies in resource modelling. Work done by the Mexican government and by IMMSA and will be used for modelling of historic mine workings which are now inaccessible (void model) Geology Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation. Copalquin is a low sulfidation epithermal gold-silver deposit hosted in andesite. This deposit type is common in the Sierra Madre Occidental of Mexico and is characterized by quartz veins and stockworks surrounded by haloes of argillic (illite/smectite) alteration. Veins have formed as both low-angle semi-continuous lenses parallel to the contact between granodiorite and andesite and as tabular veins in high-angle normal faults. Vein and breccia thickness has been observed up to 30 meters wide with average widths on the order of 3 to 5 meters. The overall strike length of the semi-continuous mineralized zone from El Gallo to Refugio, Cometa, Los Pinos, Los Reyes, La Montura to Constancia is almost 6 kilometres. The southern area from Apomal to San Manuel and to Las Brujas-El Peru provides additional exploration potential up to 5km. Drill hole Information A summary of all information material to the understanding of the exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for all Material drill holes: easting and northing of the drill hole collar elevation or RL (Reduced Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole collar dip and azimuth of the hole down hole length and interception depth hole length. If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this is the case. No drilling results in this announcement Data aggregation methods In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (eg cutting of high grades) and cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated. Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade results and longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations should be shown in detail. The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly stated. Potentially underground mineable intercepts are calculated as length weighted averages of material greater than or equal to 1 g/t AuEQ_70 allowing up to 2m of internal dilution. Potentially open-pit mineable intercepts are calculated as length weighted averages of material greater than or equal to 0.25 g/t AuEQ_70 allowing for up to 2m of internal dilution. No upper cut-off is applied to reporting intercepts. Length weighted averaging is used to report intercepts. The example of CDH-002 is shown. The line of zero assays is a standard which was removed from reporting. Au Raw Ag raw Length (m) Au *length Ag *length 7.51 678 0.5 3.755 339 11.85 425 0.55 6.5175 233.75 0 0 0 0 0 0.306 16 1 0.306 16 0.364 31.7 1 0.364 31.7 3.15 241 0.5 1.575 120.5 10.7 709 0.5 5.35 354.5 15.6 773 0.5 7.8 386.5 From To Length Au gpt Ag gpt 4.55 25.667 1481.9 91.95 96.5 4.55 5.64 325.7 In determining the gold equivalent (AuEq.) grade for reporting, a gold:silver price ratio of 70:1 was determined, using the formula: AuEq grade = Au grade + ((Ag grade/70) x (Ag recovery/Au recovery)). The metal prices used to determine the 70:1 ratio are the cumulative average prices for 2021: gold USD1,798.34 and silver: USD25.32 (actual is 71:1) from kitco.com At this early stage, the metallurgical recoveries are assumed to be equal. Subsequent preliminary metallurgical test work produced recoveries of 91% for silver and 96% for gold (ASX Announcement 25 February 2022). For Rock Saw Channel Sampling and soil sampling in the Copalquin District, AgEq is determined using the formula: AgEq grade = Ag grade + ((Au grade x 70) x (Au recovery/Ag recovery)). The metal prices used to determine the 70:1 ratio are the cumulative average prices for 2021: gold USD1,798.34 and silver: USD25.32 (actual is 71:1) fromkitco.com At this early stage, the metallurgical recoveries for Au and Ag are assumed to be equal in the absence of metallurgical test work for Targets 2, 3, 4 and 5 material. In the Company's opinion there is reasonable potential for both gold and silver to be extracted and sold. Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of Exploration Results. If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its nature should be reported. If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect (eg 'down hole length, true width not known'). True widths at Refugio between sections 120 and 1,000 vary according to the hole's dip. Holes drilled at -50 degrees may be considered to have intercept lengths equal to true-widths, Holes drilled at -70 degrees had true widths approximately 92% of the reported intercept lengths and holes drilled at -90 degrees had true widths of 77% of the reported intercept lengths. True widths at La Soledad are not fully understood and downhole intercepts to date, are reported. At Las Brujas in Target 2, true widths are not yet known since we are still in the early stages of target definition. Rock sawn channel samples are cut perpendicular to the observed vein orientation wherever possible Diagrams Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported. These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views. See figures in announcement Balanced reporting Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration Results. All exploration results are reported for intercepts greater than or equal to 0.1 g/t gold equivalent (gold plus silver at 70:1 price ratio for gold:silver). Other substantive exploration data Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples - size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances. No additional exploration data are substantive at this time. Metallurgical test work on drill core composite made of crushed drill core from the El Refugio drill hole samples has been conducted. The samples used for the test work are representative of the material that makes up the majority of the Maiden Resource Estimate for El Refugio release on 17th November 2021. The test work was conducted by SGS laboratory Mexico using standard reagents and test equipment. Further work The nature and scale of planned further work (eg tests for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling). Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this information is not commercially sensitive. The Company drilled 148 diamond core holes from July 2020 to July 2022 for 32,712 m. The Company has stated its target to drill 40,000m from June 2024 until the end of 2025. Diagrams are included in the announcements and presentations showing the drill target areas within the Copalquin District 1 See 'About Copalquin Gold Silver Project' section for JORC MRE details and AuEq. calculation. Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. July 29, 2025 - VANCOUVER, B.C. - Baru Gold Corp. (BARU: TSX.V | BARUF: OTCQB) (the "Company" or "Baru") and its subsidiary PT. Tambang Mas Sangihe ("TMS" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has placed a reclamation bond for the 2025 calendar year for the Sangihe Gold Project. The reclamation bond is an annual requirement and provides a financial guarantee for reclamation and environmental restoration for the Company's operational activities in 2025. This reclamation bond continues to demonstrate Baru's environmental stewardship and long-term commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices. The reclamation bond is required following the Company's acceptance of the approval to Production Operations. The reclamation bond clears the way for immediate commencement of operations upon formal issuance by the Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. This proactive step reaffirms the Company's commitment to advancing the Sangihe Gold Project responsibly and expediently. Terrence Filbert, CEO of Baru Gold, commented: "We anticipate receiving approval for Production Operations in the near term. Once approved, we have the financial strength to commence operations even as we work towards more substantial funding from Quantum Metal Thailand. With our experienced leadership team in place, we are fully prepared to take the transformative step and transition to an active gold producer." ABOUT SANGIHE GOLD PROJECT The Sangihe Gold Project ("Sangihe") is located on the Indonesian island of Sangihe, off the northern coast of Sulawesi with a gold bearing area of approximately 25,000 ha. Sangihe has an existing National Instrument 43-101 report suitable for mining planning and production schedules for an area within the 65-ha area targeted for initial production. See the Company's "Independent Technical Report on the Updated Mineral Resource Estimates of the Binebase and Bawone Deposits, Sangihe Project, North Sulawesi, Indonesia" (Mining Associates Pty Ltd, February 1st, 2025). Only 10% of the gold bearing area has been explored. Readers are cautioned that mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The Company intends to proceed to production without the benefit of first establishing mineral reserves supported by a feasibility study. The Company cautions readers that the any production decision made by the Company will not be based on a NI 43-101 feasibility study of mineral reserves that demonstrates economic and technical viability and as such, there may be involved increased uncertainty and various technological and economic risks The Company's 70-percent interest in the Sangihe-mineral-tenement Contract of Work ("CoW") is held through PT. Tambang Mas Sangihe ("TMS"). The remaining 30-percent interest in TMS is held by other Indonesian corporations. The term of the Sangihe CoW agreement is 30 years upon commencement of the production phase of the project. Baru has met all the requirements of the Indonesian government and has been granted its environmental permit. ABOUT BARU GOLD CORP. Baru Gold Corporation is a dynamic junior gold developer with NI 43-101 gold resources in Indonesia, one of the top ten gold producing countries in the world. Based in Indonesia and North America, Baru's team boasts extensive experience in starting and operating small-scale gold assets. On behalf of the Board of Directors BARU GOLD CORP. "Terry Filbert" Terry Filbert Chairman and Chief Executive Officer info@barugold.com 604-684-2183 For investor contacts more information, please contact: Kevin Shum Investor Relations kevin@jeminicapital.com 647-725-3888 ext. 702 Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Certain statements in this News Release, which are not historical in nature, constitute "forward looking statements" within the meaning of that phrase under applicable Canadian securities law. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements or information concerning future work programs, results and timing of any work programs, the Company's performance or events as of the date hereof. These statements reflect management's current assumptions and expectations and by their nature are subject to certain underlying assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or events to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Those risks include the interpretation of drill results; the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with our expectations; commodity and currency price fluctuation; failure to obtain adequate financing; regulatory, recovery rates, refinery costs, and other relevant conversion factors, permitting and licensing risks; general market and mining exploration risks and production and economic risks related to design and engineering, manufacturing, technological processes and test procedures and the risk that the project's output will not be salable at a price that will cover the project's operating and maintenance costs. Forward-looking statements should not be construed as investment advice. Readers should perform a detailed, independent investigation and analysis of the Company and are encouraged to seek independent professional advice before making any investment decision. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statement. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements to reflect events or changes in circumstances that occur after the date hereof. Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. Diamcor Mining Inc. (TSX-V.DMI), (the "Company") announces that due to ongoing delays in completing its funding objectives and associated operational and audit related delays, the Company will be unable to file its audited financial statements and corresponding management's discussion and analysis for the year ended March 31, 2025 (collectively, the "Financial Disclosure") on or before the prescribed filing deadline of July 29, 2025 as required by National Instrument 51-102 - Continuous Disclosure Obligations. The Company's South African auditor, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and its Canadian auditor, MNP LLP, require more time to complete the preparation, reviews and audit in respect of the Financial Disclosure. The delay has been caused by the inability of the Company to complete its funding objectives underway and the associated funding transactions due to the well documented industry wide supply chain disruptions and the resulting uncertainty surrounding the impact of US imposed tariffs, compounded by the recent actions undertaken by a major creditor, Tiffany & Co. Canada ("Tiffany"), to enforce its security against all of the Company's present and after acquired personal propertyand all shares held by the Company in the capital of its subsidiary DMI Diamonds South Africa (Pty) Ltd., as previously announced in the Company's news release on June 13, 2025. These issues have disrupted the Company's South African operations, which has also contributed to the delays in completing the South Africa portion of the Company's annual audit work. The Company is working to complete the financing objectives underway, provide the additional submissions and related items to its auditors and to complete the audit of the financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2025. In this regard, the Company has formulated the following remediation plan: Finalize arrangements with Tiffany to defer any formal insolvency proceedings in order to enable the Company to complete its funding objectives (target completion: August 15, 2025); Complete funding objectives (target completion August 29, 2025); Complete delivery of required submissions and related items to the Company's South African and Canadian auditors (target completion: September 2, 2025); Complete draft Annual Filings for review and approval by the Company (target completion: September 23, 2025); Complete final approval and filing of Annual Filing (target completion: September 26, 2025). Based on the foregoing, the Company anticipates that it will be in a position to file its Financial Disclosure before September 29, 2025. The Company confirms that it will comply with the alternative information guidelines included in National Policy 12-203 - Management Cease Trade Orders, for so long as it remains in default of a specified requirement. The Company has filed an application with the British Columbia Securities Commission and the Alberta Securities Commission requesting that they issue a management cease trade order against the Company's Directors, Officers and/or Insiders instead of a cease trade order against the Company and all of its securityholders. About Diamcor Mining Inc. Diamcor Mining Inc. is a fully reporting publicly traded junior diamond mining company which is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol V.DMI. The Company has a well-established operational and production history in South Africa and extensive prior experience supplying rough diamonds to the world market. On behalf of the Board of Directors Mr. Dean H. Taylor President & CEO Diamcor Mining Inc. DTaylor@diamcormining.com Tel (250) 864-3326 www.diamcormining.com Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements in this document include statements concerning the Company's intent to file the Financial Disclosure before September 29, 2025, and all other statements that are not statements of historical fact. Although the Company believes the forward-looking information contained in this news release is reasonable based on information available on the date hereof, by their nature forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. By their nature, these statements involve a variety of assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, levels of activity and achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Examples of such assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, assumptions, risks and uncertainties associated with adverse industry events; future legislative and regulatory developments; and other assumptions, risks and uncertainties. THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS NEWS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE EXPECTATIONS OF THE COMPANY AS OF THE DATE OF THIS NEWS RELEASE AND, ACCORDINGLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER SUCH DATE. READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THIS INFORMATION AS OF ANY OTHER DATE. WHILE THE COMPANY MAY ELECT TO, IT DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME EXCEPT AS REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS. WE SEEK SAFE HARBOUR Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Shares Issued and Outstanding: 168,638,937 SOURCE: Diamcor Mining Inc. Vancouver - Armory Mining Corp. (CSE: ARMY) (OTC: RMRYF) (FRA: 2JS) (the "Company" or "Armory") a resource exploration company focused on the discovery and development of minerals critical to the energy, security and defense sectors, is pleased to announce the closing of the previously announced assignment agreement (the "Assignment Agreement") with 1321968 BC Ltd. ("1321968"), Northex Capital Partners Inc. ("Northex"), and Tidal Gold Corp. ("Tidal" together with Northex, the "Optionors"). Pursuant to the Assignment Agreement, 1321968 assigned the Company its option (the "Option") to acquire from the Optionors a 100% interest in certain mineral claims located in Haida Gwaii, British Columbia, which will form part of the Company's Riley Creek Project. In consideration for the assignment of the Option, the Company agreed to issue an aggregate of 10,100,000 common shares in the capital of the Company to the shareholders of 1321968 and the Optionors. In connection with the closing, the Company issued an aggregate of 9,000,000 common shares today, is expected to issue an aggregate of 500,000 common shares tomorrow and will issue an aggregate of 600,000 common shares on or around February 1, 2026, to the shareholders of 1321968 and the Optionors all as follows: Share Issuance Date No. of Shares: Issuable to: July 29, 2025 (today) 500,000 500,000 8,000,000 Tidal Northex Shareholders of 1321968 July 30, 2025 200,000 200,000 100,000 Tidal Northex Shareholder of 1321968 February 1, 2026 250,000 250,000 100,000 Tidal Northex Shareholder of 1321968 Total: 10,100,000 To exercise the Option to acquire a 100% interest in the mineral claims comprising the Riley Creek Project, the Company is required to: (i) incur $50,000 of exploration expenditures on the project on or before October 31, 2025; and (ii) pay the Optionors an additional cash sum of $100,000 on or before October 31, 2026. If the Option is exercised, the Company's 100% interest in the Riley Project will be subject to a 2.0% net smelter returns royalty granted to the Optionors. The Company will maintain the right, at any time, to purchase 1.0% of the net smelter returns royalty (leaving the Optionors with a 1.0% net smelter returns royalty) for a one-time payment of $500,000. All common shares of the Company issuable pursuant to the Assignment Agreement are or will be subject to a statutory four month hold from the date of issuance. Disposition of the Kaslo Silver Property The Company also announces that it has completed its previously announced sale of its Kaslo Silver Property to 2724898 Alberta Inc. ("2724898") pursuant to an agreement (the "Kaslo Agreement"). The obligations underlying the existing 2.5% net smelter return royalty on the Kaslo Silver Project were also assumed by and transferred to 2724898 as part of the sale. Pursuant to the Kaslo Agreement, as consideration for the purchase of the Kaslo Silver Project from the Company, 2724898 paid $100,000 in cash (which amount was received and previously advanced by 2724898 to the Company as a loan) and issued 1,500,000 common shares of 2724898 at a deemed price of $0.20 per share to the Company. The shares of 2724898 issued to the Company are subject to voluntary resale restrictions such that 500,000 shares and 1,000,000 shares cannot be sold, assigned, transferred or pledged for a period of 12 months and 24 months, respectively, from the date that the shares or any equivalent securities exchanged for the shares are listed on a recognized stock exchange. About Armory Mining Corp Armory Mining Corp. is a Canadian exploration company focused on minerals critical to the energy, security and defense sectors. The Company controls an 80% interest in the Candela II lithium brine project located in the Incahuasi Salar, Salta Province, Argentina and a 100% interest in the Riley Creek antimony-gold project located in Haida Gwaii, British Columbia, and an option to acquire a 100% interest in the Ammo antimony-gold project located in Nova Scotia. Contact Information Alex Klenman CEO alex@armorymining.com Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as the term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of accuracy of this news release. Forward-looking statements: Certain information contained herein constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the Company's closing of the transaction contemplated by the Assignment Agreement, the shares issuable under the Assignment Agreement and anticipated timing thereof. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "anticipates", "believes", "anticipated" "expected" "intends" "will" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different, including receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals. Although management of the Company have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. GREATER SUDBURY, ON, July 29, 2025 /CNW/ - Frontier Lithium Inc. (TSXV: FL) (OTCQX: LITOF) ("Frontier" or the "Company") is pleased to report its financial and operational results for the year ended March 31, 2025 ("FY 2025") and to outline recent milestones that have been achieved by the Company that support its plan to become a critical supplier of battery-grade lithium chemicals for the nascent North American electric vehicle (EV) market. FY2025 Highlights and Recent Developments As at March 31, 2025, Frontier held approximately $17.9 million in cash, an increase from $12.6 million the prior year period. The increase was driven by a strategic financing, including proceeds from the previously announced Mitsubishi Corporation joint venture transaction. Frontier's financial position will allow it to execute on the next phase of its project development. Feasibility Study Confirms Robust Mine & Mill Project In May 2025, Frontier released results of its independent Mine and Mill Feasibility Study ("Feasibility Study"), demonstrating strong project economics for the standalone development of its PAK and Spark deposits. The Feasibility Study outlined average annual production of 200,000 tonnes of spodumene concentrate (SC6) over a 31-year mine life, with an after-tax net present value of $932 million at an 8% discount rate and an internal rate of return of 17.9%. C1 operating costs for the project are estimated at $602 per tonne of SC6 and these metrics position the project to be among one of the most competitive globally. Advancing Environmental and Infrastructure Work Frontier continued work on environmental baseline studies to support permitting efforts. Through Canada's Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund, the Company secured up to $6 million in non-repayable funding for pre-construction activities on mine access and power infrastructure. Significant Government Support for Downstream Facility In March 2025, the federal and Ontario governments jointly announced conditional funding to support Frontier's proposed lithium salts conversion facility in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The funding will supplement capital costs for the facility, which is intended to supply North American cathode and battery makers. Exploration Success and Ember Pegmatite Discovery The Company completed over 11,000 metres of drilling in FY 2025, including geomechanical, hydrogeological, and condemnation drilling in support of project feasibility. A new lithium-bearing zone, the Ember pegmatite, was identified 1 kilometre from the Spark deposit. Initial drilling at the Ember Pegmatite has confirmed high-grade mineralization beneath a surface outcrop previously sampled through channel sampling. Land Secured for Lithium Chemical Facility In February 2025, Frontier secured a vacant industrial site on Mission Island in Thunder Bay, Ontario to host its proposed lithium conversion facility. The purchase was funded by a $3.35 million unsecured convertible loan that was completed in February 2025. Outlook With one of North America's highest-grade spodumene resources, a positive feasibility study, a global strategic partner, and strong government support for downstream infrastructure, Frontier is well positioned to become a key player in North America's critical minerals supply chain. The Company will focus on advancing project permitting, completing technical studies, and finalizing Indigenous partnership agreements. Feasibility work on the lithium conversion facility will continue in parallel, with the goal of converting strong expressions of interest from both the Federal Government and Provincial Government of Ontario into contribution agreements. About Frontier Lithium Frontier Lithium Inc. is a pre-production mining company with an objective to become a strategic and integrated supplier of premium spodumene concentrates as well as battery-grade lithium salts to the growing electric vehicle, and energy storage markets in North America. The Company's PAK Lithium project maintains the largest land position and resource in a premium lithium mineral district located in Ontario's Great Lakes region. About the PAK Lithium Project The PAK Lithium Project is a fully integrated critical minerals initiative in Ontario, developing North America's highest-grade known lithium resource. Operated as a joint venture between Frontier (92.5%) and Mitsubishi Corporation (7.5%), the project is advancing in parallel with a mine and mill and a downstream lithium conversion facility in Thunder Bay, Ontario, which are both key to supporting a secure domestic lithium supply for the clean energy transition. A 2025 Mine and Mill Feasibility Study (FS), prepared by DRA and entitled National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report FS PAK Lithium Project, Mine and Mill, outlines a 31-year Project life with an after-tax net present value of $932 million at an 8% discount rate and an after-tax internal rate of return of 17.9%.These results were disclosed in a press release dated May 28, 2025, and the accompanying technical report was filed on July 9, 2025 on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca). Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical fact constitute forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements contained in this news release may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: capital requirements and private and/or public financing initiatives and completion of these financings (if any), estimated mineral resources, estimated capital costs to construct mine facilities, estimated operating costs, the duration of payback periods, estimated amounts of future production, estimated cash flows, net present value, the Feasibility Study and statements that address future production, resource and reserve potential, exploration drilling, exploitation activities and events or developments that the Company expects, including but not limited to capital and operating costs, timelines, internal rates of return, and project development milestones. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include: market prices for commodities, increases in capital or operating costs, construction risks, availability of infrastructure including roads, regulatory and permitting risks, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, financing costs, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and those actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on the Company, please review the Company's public filings available at www.sedarplus.ca. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE Frontier Lithium Inc. Interview: Contemporary art deepens China-Italy friendship: Italian gallery chief Xinhua) 14:14, July 29, 2025 ROME, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Deeper exchanges between artists from China and Italy are helping to reinforce bilateral friendship, said Renata Cristina Mazzantini, general director of Italy's National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art (GNAMC), in a recent interview with Xinhua. This month, the GNAMC is hosting a special exhibition titled "2025 East and West: International Dialogue Exhibition -- From Shanghai to Rome," featuring works by 49 artists from China and Italy. Spanning paintings, sculptures, and other media, the exhibition offers a platform for cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration. "We are in a globalized world, so artists are influenced by different cultures," said Mazzantini, one of the exhibition's key organizers. "Through these dialogues, we can explore what is shared." She noted that a defining trait of Chinese contemporary art is its strong connection to nature and tradition. "It reflects traditional Chinese philosophy, especially the relationship between human beings and nature," she said. This year marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Italy, with both countries hosting a series of commemorative events. Mazzantini emphasized China's growing influence on the global cultural stage and said establishing long-term artistic exchanges is of great importance to Italy. Contemporary art is also fertile ground for the next generation of artists, she said, adding, "Through the work of young people, we can uncover new cultural links and build stronger relations between our two nations." While China and Italy both have deep-rooted traditions in heritage preservation, Mazzantini said contemporary art speaks to the present and future. "We must remain open to the world, especially to China," she stressed. "Joint exhibitions allow younger artists to better understand contemporary China and its dynamic art scene." She added that today's contemporary works will eventually become part of tomorrow's heritage. "Each generation adds to the cultural legacy. Supporting these exchanges ensures the continuity of our shared heritage." Founded in 1883, the GNAMC is one of Italy's most important national museums under the Ministry of Culture. It houses around 20,000 modern and contemporary works from Italy and other Western countries. In recent years, it has held a number of special exhibitions focused on Chinese contemporary art. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Featured How Daddy Lumba described his death Douglas Anane-Frimpong & Gifty Owusu-Amoah Showbiz News Jul - 29 - 2025 , 07:28 7 minutes read After yearly rumours about his passing, death finally won. Indeed, Ghanaian highlife legend, Daddy Lumba, bade farewell to his fans in "Makra Mo" (Goodbye), a poignant and prophetic song released three decades ago. The song, featured on his sixth album "Biribi Gyegye Wo" in 1993, was a soulful expression of mortality, where Charles Kwadwo Fosu, aka Daddy Lumba, told his fans to enjoy every moment with him while he was alive and not to weep when he was no more. This song's love, loss and legacy themes have taken on a new significance with the news of Daddy Lumba's passing on July 26, 2025, at the age of 60. A music producer, Fred Kyei Mensah, aka Fredyma, who has known Daddy Lumba for over 43 years and worked with him, revealed to the Daily Graphic that the legend's name was inspired by Patrice Lumumba, the popular Congolese revolutionary leader. Daddy Lumba was a member of a school choir that sang a song about Patrice Lumumba, and it made a great impression on him. The song resonated with him. It symbolised strength, leadership and purpose qualities that mirrored his own journey, he said. As news of Daddy Lumba's passing spread, tributes began pouring in from across the music industry and beyond, and some close associates of the music icon have expressed their fond memories of him. President John Dramani Mahama expressed grief over the passing of Daddy Lumba. "I have learnt with deep sorrow the passing of Ghanaian music legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, affectionately known as Daddy Lumba". "Lumbas unmatched musical genius provided the soundtrack to our lives, carrying us through various phases of life," the President said in a statement. He said the beats to Lumba's memorable songs might have died down, but his enduring legacy would echo through the ages. "On behalf of the Government of Ghana, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones for this irreplaceable loss." Former President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and former Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, have both expressed shock and sent messages of condolence to the Fosu and allied families. The ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) have also sent their condolences, refer to story on page 19. MUSIGA ready with support The President of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), Bessa Simons, in an interview with the Daily Graphic, highlighted the significant impact Daddy Lumba had on Highlife, saying it is impossible to tell the story of the genre without mentioning him. We have lost one of our greatest musicians who brought change and uplifted our Highlife music to another level. Weve lost a great contributor to Highlife music. Lumba came in with his style, and he is still very, very relevant to our music, and we cannot write the story of Highlife without Lumba. Even up till now, every music you listen to has Lumbas influence. He took Highlife to many places, Mr Simon said. Let me put it on record that King Charles of England listed Daddy Lumbas song among his Top 12 Songs, which is a great achievement for any artiste. For someone of his calibre, he should be well celebrated. Daddy is a musician who, when his name is mentioned none other comes to mind. He is a state asset. MUSIGA wishes his family Gods strength, he added. Mr Simon said MUSIGA was ready to work with the family to ensure we get a befitting burial because he is a statesman. Inevitability of death "Makra Mo" is a testament to Daddy Lumba's introspective and thoughtful approach to music. In the song, he acknowledges the inevitability of death and asks his Maker to let it exclude him, if possible. He knew very well that many of his fans would be willing to die in his place. However, he acknowledged that it was not possible since it had already been destined for everyone to die. Like Christ, knowing what lay ahead of him, Lumba pleaded with his Maker to let the cup pass over him, if that was possible a sad reality, he admitted, thinking of how he was going to eventually die with his great talent. The song's themes of mortality and legacy have resonated with fans, who are now reflecting on its prophetic sense in the light of his passing. When the time is due Another song, "Se emer no besoa" (when the time is due), further showcases Lumba's introspection, as he pleads with his Maker to prompt him or reveal it when his time on earth is due, to enable him to put his house in order before his departure. It is, however, not certain whether this wish was granted before his demise. Born Charles Kojo Fosu on September 29, 1964, in Nsuta, Ghana, Daddy Lumba rose to fame in the early 1980s with his unique blend of highlife, hiplife and traditional Ghanaian rhythms. With a career spanning about four decades, he released more than 30 studio albums and became a household name across Africa and beyond. Some of his most popular songs include Ankwa anoma, "Aben Wo Ha", "Y Wo Krom", "Mekyi", "Sika", "Theresa", "Dada Kae", "Ase Ho", Adaka tea and "Playboy". Daddy Lumba's music not only entertained but also addressed social issues. Many phrases from the lyrics of his songs became popular slogans. Aben Wo Ha Daddy Lumbas Aben Wo Ha song, released in 1998, was big to the extent that the Toyota Corolla E90 was nicknamed after it. He also composed a popular campaign song for the NPP flag bearer in the 2012 elections (Nana y Winner). Daddy Lumba's influence on Ghanaian music and culture is immeasurable. He was known for his powerful voice, emotional lyrics, and unique style of rendition that made him a beloved figure in Ghanaian music. His legacy extends beyond his music, as he mentored other artists, including Ofori Amponsah and Great Ampong, and played a crucial role in shaping the soundscape of modern Ghanaian music. After recovering from a serious illness, Daddy Lumba explored gospel music, releasing "Mesom Jesus" in 1995 and "Hwan Na Otene" in 1996, a collaboration with gospel musician Akua Serwaa Bonsu. Daddy Lumba's passing leaves a void in the Ghanaian music industry, but his legacy will continue to inspire and comfort fans across generations. His music will remain a testament to his artistry, creativity, and dedication to his craft. As Ghana mourns the loss of a true legend, the people take comfort in the knowledge that Daddy Lumba's music will live on, a reminder of his impact on the country's cultural heritage. Candlelight vigil/Book of Condolence A national candlelight vigil will be held in honour of the late highlife legend, under the auspices of the Creative Arts Agency at the Independence Square in Accra on Saturday, August 2, 2025. The vigil will start from 6 p.m. As part of the arrangements to honour Daddy Lumba's memory, the Fosu family will also open a Book of Condolence today at his private residence located at Kinshasha Crescent, East Legon, Accra, House Number 12 (GA-332-9264). The book will open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. In a statement released last Sunday, the family expressed appreciation to all well-wishers, friends, colleagues, fans, and the general public for the outpouring of love, prayers and support following the passing of their beloved Daddy Lumba after a brief illness. "In this time of deep grief, your kindness and solidarity have brought us great comfort," the statement indicated. "We kindly ask the public to continue to respect the privacy of the family as they mourn their lost icon, while also joining us to celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of our beloved Daddy Lumba." It said details regarding the final funeral arrangements would be communicated to the public in due course. Featured Holding Daddy Lumbas vigil on the day I'm premiering my movie is sabotage - Lil Win Jessica Love Otoo Showbiz News Jul - 29 - 2025 , 11:22 2 minutes read Ghanaian actor and filmmaker Kwadwo Nkansah, popularly known as Lilwin, has voiced his disappointment regarding the scheduling of the late Daddy Lumbas candlelight vigil on Saturday, August 2, the same day to premiere his much publicised, Ibrahim Traore movie. In a Facebook live on Monday, July 28, Lil Win described the decision made by the organisers as unfair and inconsiderate, especially given the widespread knowledge of his movie's premiere date. Im so disappointed that the organisers chose to schedule Daddy Lumbas candlelight vigil on the same day as my movie premiere, August 2nd. Thats the day for Ibrahim Traore. This is incredibly frustrating. Im extremely disappointed, he said. A national candlelight vigil in honour of the late highlife legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba is going to be held under the auspices of the Creative Arts Agency at the Independence Square in Accra on Saturday, August 2, 2025, starting at 6 p.m. (Read Candlelight vigil to be held in memory of Daddy Lumba on Aug 2, family opens book of condolence) He expressed disappointment with the individuals involved, feeling that his substantial emotional and financial investments in the project had not been valued or reciprocated appropriately. Im deeply saddened by the decision to hold Daddy Lumbas candlelight vigil on the same day as my movie premiere. Ive spent nearly 1 million dollars on this film, including production and promotions, and just like that, its being overshadowed. Everyone knew my premiere was scheduled for that day, yet the organizers went ahead with their plans. This is truly heartbreaking given the cost and the effort Ive put into this project, he lamented. Next article: Three killed, several injured in German train derailment Featured Man arrested after sniffing womans buttocks at store www.kgns.tv International News Jul - 29 - 2025 , 06:48 1 minute read Police in California arrested a registered sex offender after he allegedly sniffed a womans buttocks at a department store. Calese Carron Crowder, 38, was arrested last Tuesday after police say they received reports of a suspicious man lingering around the womens section at a Nordstrom Rack in the Burbank Empire Center. When officers arrived at the store, witnesses told them the suspect had already left. Police searched through the shopping center and found Crowder inside a nearby Walmart. Investigators say surveillance camera footage from the Nordstrom Rack showed Crowder crouching near a woman and sniffing her buttocks. He was charged with one count of loitering with intent to commit a crime. Police say Crowder is a registered sex offender who was on parole and has a history of similar arrests for lewd conduct since 2021. Michaela Witter is one of Crowders alleged past victims. She recorded him allegedly sniffing her while at a Barnes & Noble in Burbank and posted the video to TikTok. I feel like the justice system is just neglecting everything, Witter said. Its crazy to think that someone like this, whos constantly stalking and violating these people, is allowed to be out and about. Crowder is being held on a $100,000 bail and is expected to appear in court Friday. Featured GTEC begins arrest, prosecution of honorary PhD holders Severious Kale-Dery Education Jul - 29 - 2025 , 07:48 4 minutes read The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) will start arresting those who insist on using honorary professorship for prosecution this week. It said individuals using those titles based on honour awards violated the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023), stressing that such acts would be treated as public deception and prosecuted accordingly. For clarity, the term honorary professor is non-existent in Ghanas tertiary education system. The title Professor is strictly reserved for academic staff who have progressed through the academic ranks. Only a university's governing council may confer such a title, either through promotion or direct appointment with appropriate academic qualifications, the Director-General of GTEC, Prof. Ahmed Jinapor, explained at a press briefing last Friday in Accra., He added that any individual claiming the title honorary professor was misleading the public and such conduct was fraudulent. Prof. Jinapor explained that the misuse of academic titles such as doctor, professor or chartered constituted an offence under the law, and penalties for violations included fines up to 250 penalty units, imprisonment for up to a year or both. So, our emphasis is a crusade to get the public to come to terms with the fact that the honeymoon period is over, Prof. Jinapor insisted. Mandate of GTEC The press briefing was for GTEC to explain the rationale behind sanitising the tertiary educational space on the use of honorary doctorate and professorship. It was also to justify GTEC as the institution mandated by law to regulate the tertiary education space, including the use of academic titles. In accordance with Section 8(4)(d) of the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023), the GTEC is mandated to regulate the use of higher education nomenclature and titles, including university, college, emeritus, professor, doctor, chartered and related terms. Prof. Jinapor added that as stipulated in the 2020 (Act 1023), GTEC underscored that only accredited and chartered institutions might confer honorary degrees and no institution was permitted to award the title honorary professor. Honorary professor titles conferred by foreign bodies without legitimate academic standing are not recognised in Ghana by the Commission. Misuse of academic titles-such as Doctor, Professor, University, Chartered, etc. constitutes an offence under the law, Prof. Jinapor explained. He said the penalties for violations include fines up to 250 penalty units and imprisonment for up to one year or both. GTEC reserves the right to investigate and sanction any individual or institution involved in the misuse or misrepresentation of academic titles, he emphasised. Earning PhD Prof. Jinapor, who was supported by top management of the commission, including the Deputy Director-General, Prof. Augustine Ocloo, stressed that for the avoidance of doubt, academic titles such as PhD, MSc, or bachelors were earned through rigorous, structured and supervised educational programmes. This involves coursework, examinations, original research, thesis defence, and external review. In fact, if you take a PhD in mechanical engineering, it's conferred after years of coursework, research and successful defence of thesis before an academic committee. So, you just don't get up one day and confer on yourself the title PhD, or its equivalent, without having gone through the rigour of what academics do, he insisted. Honorary doctorate Prof. Jinapor explained that an honorary doctorate was a symbolic recognition awarded by accredited, chartered institutions, which acknowledged societal contributions, philanthropy or leadership. He, therefore, said any individual claiming a title of honorary professor was misleading the public, and such conduct, I must say, is fraudulent, adding that in line with international best practices, such practices were prohibited. In line with international best practices, use of the title Dr by honorary doctorate recipients; use of the title Professor (Prof.) based on unverified honorary awards and the adoption of the title Professor through visiting roles, where the home or host institution has not officially conferred the rank through a documented appointment process, are prohibited, Prof. Jinapor clarified. The GTEC Director-General insisted that using honorary titles in a manner that mimicked academic designations, misleads the public and undermines academic credibility. He added that an individual who used doctor, based on an honorary award, might be mistaken for a qualified medical doctor, academic, or researcher, creating ethical and legal risk. Prof. Jinapor made it clear that no institution in Ghana was allowed to issue honorary professorship, stressing that professorship was an earned rank. Throwing more light on the academic titles elsewhere, such as the United States, he explained that a lecturer entry point was a professor, adding, In Ghana, you start as a lecturer, move to senior lecturer, as an associate professor, then professor. He, therefore, called on the media, civil society, and the general public to support efforts to preserve the integrity of Ghanas education system. Writers email: severious.dery@graphic.com.gh Previous article: 'Let it not be another declaration on paper' Mahama rallies Africa on reparative justice Featured Adu-Boahene trial: Prosecution cant give you title documents of alleged stolen vehicles Court rules Justice Agbenorsi Jul - 29 - 2025 , 13:16 3 minutes read The High Court in Accra has dismissed in part an application seeking an order from the trial court to direct the Attorney-General to provide information on claims of stolen cars allegedly found in the fleet of rental cars of former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Kwabena Adu-Boahene. In a ruling today (July 29), the court presided over by Justice John Eugene Nyadu Nyanteh upheld arguments by the Deputy Attorney-General, Dr Justice Srem Sai that the documents bill of lading, port of entry being requested for by the accused person was already in his possession. The court however directed the police investigators to deliver to the defence directly all information in their possession in respect of the vehicle to aid the accused person in the preparation of defence in the trial in which Adu-Boahene is standing trial together with his wife, Angela Adjei-Boateng and two others for allegedly stealing GH49.1 million from the state in a purported deal to procure a cybersecurity system for the country. The application was filed by counsel for Adu-Boahene, Samuel Atta Akyea, to build a defence on the allegations that his client was selling stolen cars he had bought. Meanwhile, Mildred Donkor, who said she no longer needed the services of Mr Atta Akyea has a new lawyer. Mr Nutifafa Nutsukpui announced himself as counsel for Mildred Donkor when the case was called for hearing today. Before Mr Atta Akyea moved his application for the A-G to release the title documents to his client, Mr Nutsukpui prayed the court to afford him opportunity to see copies of the pending applications and any response that the Attorney General may have delivered. However, that was turned down by the court on grounds that Donkor is not an illiterate. It is to be reasonably expected that she (Donkor) will furnish her counsel with all pending processes before the court in respect of some of which she was being called upon at the last court date to conduct the cross examination, the judge said. The case has been adjourned to July 31, 2025 for continuation. Charges Adu-Boahene and Adjei-Boateng have been accused of moving GH49 million, meant for purchasing the software for the state, into their private company through a complex web of companies ultimately owned by ASL. On the other hand, Mildred Donkor, a former bank relations officer for the two and a director of Advantage Solutions Limited (ASL), the sole shareholder of a private company that the prosecution alleged was used to receive the GH49 million, has been accused of assisting the couple in moving the money, which the prosecution alleged had been used to purchase landed properties in Accra, Kumasi and London, as well as other properties. In all, the four accused persons Adu-Boahene, Adjei-Boateng, Donkor and ASL have pleaded not guilty to 11 counts of offences ranging from defrauding by false pretences, one count of wilfully causing financial loss to the state, one count of using public office for personal gain and one count of obtaining public property by false pretences. Next article: A-G Ayine on why he was using plea deals instead of custodial sentences Featured Agribusiness is Ghanas future President Mahama declares at inaugural National Agribusiness Dialogue GraphicOnline Jul - 28 - 2025 , 19:07 4 minutes read President John Dramani Mahama has declared agribusiness as the future of Ghanas economy, positioning it as the cornerstone for industrial transformation, job creation, and export diversification. Speaking at the maiden National Agribusiness Dialogue held in Accra on Monday, July 28, 2025, President Mahama described the forum as a "vital turning point" in Ghanas economic trajectory and a statement of intent towards inclusive and sustainable development. He commended the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry for championing the forum and initiating a bold realignment of national policy to prioritise agribusiness within the countrys industrial and trade strategy. The decision, he said, was part of a broader plan to transition Ghana from an agrarian economy to a competitive, export-driven industrial hub. Todays dialogue is not just another meeting. It is a call to action. We must move from talking to implementation. The time has come to unlock the full potential of agribusiness as the new driver of Ghanas inclusive and sustainable industrial growth, the President said. Touching on infrastructure, President Mahama highlighted the urgent need to develop food production corridors, especially in the northeastern parts of the country, to improve the movement of agricultural products and reduce post-harvest losses. On the global front, he noted that the agribusiness sector is projected to grow significantly, presenting Ghana with an opportunity to become a major player in international food systems. He urged stakeholders to pursue value addition, integration into global supply chains, and the strengthening of local input systems. The President unveiled several new initiatives under the governments 24-hour economy agenda. These include the Keep the Industries Initiative, the Rapid Industrialisation Initiative, and the Accelerated Export Development Programme, which hinge on year-round availability of raw materials; necessitating a shift from single-season farming to all-year-round agriculture, driven by expanded irrigation and mechanisation. A key component of the Presidents vision is the Feed Industry Programme, anchored on four pillars: Commercial Farmer Development, Post-Harvest Loss Solution Centres, Industrial and Market Development, and Institutional Capacity Building. He expressed confidence that these efforts would help raise Ghanas industrial capacity utilisation from its current 3040 per cent to as high as 7080 per cent. To promote local content, President Mahama announced that the government is compiling a national list of agro-processed products to guide procurement and consumption decisions within the agro-industrial sector. He also revealed that a comprehensive National Agribusiness Policy is under development to provide strategic direction for investment and coordination across the value chain. The policy will focus on value addition, processing standards, competitiveness, and resilience in supply chains. We must each ask ourselves: What can I do for agribusiness? Let us approach this journey with commitment to inclusive growth, sustainability, and a passion to see Ghana rise through agribusiness, he urged. The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, who welcomed participants to the forum, praised President Mahamas leadership and the governments decision to broaden the mandate of her ministry to include agribusiness. We are here today because we recognise that Ghanas agribusiness sector must move beyond its traditional confines. We must embrace innovation, invest in value addition, scale up agritech solutions, strengthen market systems and expand access to finance, she said. She highlighted the governments 24-Hour Economy Policy as a catalyst for agribusiness growth, particularly in agro-processing, logistics, and market access. By creating the conditions for round-the-clock productivity, we can unlock new layers of efficiency, reduce post-harvest losses, and drive continuous value addition, she added. Delivering the keynote technical address, Mr Daniel Fahene Acquaye, Group CEO of Agri Impact Limited, called for a bold shift from fragmented pilot projects to large-scale agribusiness investments. He cited the example of South Africa, where agro-processing contributes a higher percentage to GDP than primary agriculture. In contrast, Ghanas agro-processing sector currently contributes only 6 per cent to GDP, compared to 2026 per cent from primary agriculture. To reverse this trend, Mr Acquaye proposed the establishment of a dedicated Agri Fund to unlock financing, enhance value chains, and support indigenous enterprises, especially in animal processing. He also called for the development of agro-industrial hubs in the northern regions, complete with modern infrastructure and digital tools. Noting that SMEs account for more than 70 per cent of Ghanas GDP, many operating in the agribusiness sector; he emphasised the need for policies that embed agri-tech and inclusive training for youth, women, and persons with disabilities. The event concluded with the official declaration of the 2025 National Agribusiness Dialogue, marking the beginning of a new era for agribusiness policy, strategy, and implementation in Ghana. Ghana receives fertiliser donation from Morocco Augustina Tawiah & Pacome Emmanuel Damalie Jul - 29 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) has received 2,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser from the government of Morocco to support the national agriculture efforts. It was one of the outcomes of a two-day working visit the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration (MoFARI), Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, made to Morocco in early June this year. The Moroccan Ambassador to Ghana, Imane Ouaadil, made the presentation in Accra yesterday, on behalf of her government, while Mr Ablakwa and the Deputy Minister of MoFA, John Setor Dumelo, received it. Mr Ablakwa said based on discussions that the two countries had held, Ghanas agenda was to collaborate with Morocco to establish a fertiliser production factory in Ghana. He said the donation of the fertilisers was a symbol of renewed friendship and the bond of cordiality and brotherhood that existed between Ghana and Morocco. Expressing the governments gratitude for the gesture, he said King Mohammed VI and his government had really been generous and demonstrated that they valued the relations they had with Ghana. We want to thank King Mohammed VI and the government and people of Morocco for this very kind gesture and for the many aspects of our bilateral relations, which are advancing and progressing remarkably, he added. Expressing the hope to receive more deliverables so far as Ghana-Morocco relations was concerned, Mr Ablakwa also gave an assurance that MoFA would ensure that all farmers who must benefit from the fertilisers would benefit so that ultimately it would lead to increased food yields . He reiterated President John Dramani Mahamas agenda that made agriculture a priority, stressing that the President wanted the country to be able to attain food security and also be resilient when it came to food production. He said the President had decried the situation where the country spent $3 billion every year importing food, emphasising that the President wanted to see a reversal of that, as well as end it entirely. Goodwill Ms Ouaadil said the donation was another demonstration of Moroccos goodwill to strengthen the longstanding solidarity it had with Ghana and also part and parcel of a longer and more holistic engagement aimed to nurture and reinforce their cooperation based on trust and mutual benefit, in line with the vision of the leaders of the two countries for intra African, South-South cooperation and solidarity. Describing farmers as the heart and soul of Ghanas agriculture, she expressed the hope that the fertilisers would contribute to helping farmers improve crop production to meet the country's food security goals. Fertilisers Mr Dumelo said fertiliser was one of the most important inputs needed in the food chain, yet over the years, a lot of farmers had been crying for them. Beyond the fertilisers, he said the ministry was looking forward to Morocco helping them to be efficient in terms of irrigation because they wanted to do all-round farming to keep prices stable and also be able to manage post-harvest losses. We lose about 30 to 40 per cent of whatever we produce to post-harvest losses. So if we do have all the fertiliser we need, the irrigation we need, but we still cannot manage our post-harvest losses, then I think we will go around in cycles. Thank you for today. We assure you that we are going to put the fertiliser to good use. We are going to take it directly to the farmers who need it, he said. Featured Goal of ORAL is to recover what belongs to state - A-G justifies decision to discontinue trial Kester Aburam Korankye Jul - 29 - 2025 , 09:57 4 minutes read The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, has justified the states decision to discontinue the criminal trial of former Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr Kwabena Duffuor, and seven others. He said the state had already secured some GH824 million in assets, with a pledge of recovering an additional GH1.2 billion for the state. At a Government Accountability Series briefing in Accra yesterday, the A-G clarified that the nolle prosequi filed last week followed months of negotiations, resulting in a structured recovery agreement that prioritises the states financial interests over a potentially protracted trial with uncertain outcomes. Initial claims of GH5.7 billion in liabilities were revised down to GH3.3 billion after excluding GH2.1 billion in what he described as "fictitious accounting entries" that did not involve actual cash outflows, as well as GH300 million tied to a separate liquidation case involving a related company. Under the terms of the settlement, the accused persons offered GH2 billion in full settlement, comprising GH800 million in landed properties already transferred to the state and their cooperation in recovering GH1.2 billion from third-party beneficiaries. Goal of ORAL Dr Ayine further explained that the deal was a pragmatic approach to securing recoveries for the state, saying prolonged litigation could have led to diminished returns due to legal costs, delays, and the risk of asset dissipation. "While criminal trials serve a punitive purpose, our primary goal under the ORAL initiative is to recover what belongs to the people of Ghana," he added. Addressing criticism that the settlement allowed the accused to retain a portion of the disputed funds, the A-G dismissed comparisons to "letting a thief keep two out of six goats," stressing that the charges did not allege personal enrichment, and that a full trial could have resulted in no recovery at all. The A-G also confirmed that investigations into ORAL-related cases, including the Mathematical Sets, All Africa Games, and DRIP scandals, were nearing completion, with a report from the National Intelligence Bureau expected in the coming weeks. Additionally, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) had finalised investigations into cases involving businessman and Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Wontumi and former National Buffer Stock Company CEO Abdul-Wahab Hannan, with announcements expected soon. Dr Ayine said the Police CID has also completed its probe into the Akonta Mining case, and charges were being prepared for court. Other cases In the case involving former Director of National Signals, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, and three others, the A-G said the prosecution had called its first witness, with a second expected to testify before the legal vacation begins on July 31, 2025. He said delays in the case had been attributed to the withdrawal of legal representation by one of the accused. In the "Sky Train" case involving former officials, Solomon Asamoah and Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi, Dr Ayine said the case management conferences had concluded, and that the trial was set to begin soon, barring further adjournments due to health-related excuses from the defence. He also said that the filing of charges in the National Service Authority (NSA) scandal had been delayed because new evidence had emerged of an additional GH189 million in questionable transactions, including GH80 million that remains unaccounted for. Dr Ayine said investigators had uncovered cheques linked to former NSA Director-General, Osei Assibey, who allegedly withdrew nearly GH2 million from the account. At least eight suspects, including former NSA officials, have approached the AGs Office for plea negotiations, with some offering to testify against their colleagues. Plea bargaining The A-G emphasised that plea bargaining remained a viable tool under the ORAL initiative. He cited provisions in the Courts Act, 1993 (Act 459), which allow for non-custodial sentences in exchange for restitution, and vowed to use all legal means to maximise recoveries. "Make no mistake, I want to see looters jailed, but I am also pragmatic enough to know that recovery is sometimes the more achievable goal," he said, adding that where we cannot secure a conviction, we will pursue non-conviction-based asset recovery in the public interest". Next article: AI to contribute $20 billion to nations GDP by 2030 Julius Debrah GTBank donates 100 motorbikes to boost police patrols, community policing Joshua Bediako Koomson Jul - 29 - 2025 , 09:57 2 minutes read Guaranty Trust Bank (Ghana) Ltd has presented 100 brand-new motorbikes to the Ghana Police Service (GPS) in a major show of support for national security and community policing efforts. The motorbikes, each fitted with safety kits and fully fuelled, have been branded and are ready for deployment. They will be distributed to police commands nationwide to enhance operations such as daily patrols, traffic regulation and emergency response. The donation, which forms part of the banks Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, is aimed at strengthening the operational mobility of the police and enhancing their presence and efficiency across the country. The motorbikes were handed over to the service at the Police Headquarters in Accra yesterday at a ceremony which was witnessed by senior executives from GTBank Ghana, led by the Managing Director, Thomas Attah John, as well as high-ranking officers of the Ghana Police Service, led by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno. National development The MD of GTBank Ghana underscored the banks commitment to contributing meaningfully to national development by supporting key public institutions. Mr John stated that ensuring the safety and security of communities was a shared responsibility, and one that GTBank Ghana was proud to be a part of. We believe a secure environment is fundamental to national growth and prosperity. These motorbikes are our contribution towards enhancing the visibility, responsiveness, and reach of the GPS in serving and protecting our communities. We are proud to play a role in strengthening the logistics of the police force, he said. Appreciation The IGP, who received the donation on behalf of the service, expressed deep appreciation to the bank for its continued support. Mr Yohuno described the gesture as timely, especially as the police intensified efforts to improve patrols in remote and hard-to-reach areas. This timely donation will go a long way in improving our patrol capabilities, especially in remote and underserved areas. It is also a powerful signal of how the private sector can complement our efforts in building a safer Ghana. We are deeply grateful to GTBank Ghana for this gesture of partnership and national service, the IGP said. Next article: President Mahama calls for legally binding frameworks to protect press freedom and civic rights in Africa Featured Insure to protect yourself against uncertainties - Insurance companies urge Ghanaians Elizabeth Nyaadu Adu Jul - 29 - 2025 , 12:58 4 minutes read Insurance companies have called on Ghanaians, especially informal sector workers, to protect themselves with insurance coverage, as it is the most reliable way to recover from unexpected events. The First Vice-President of Ghana Insurers Association (GIA), Dr Nashiru Iddrisu, emphasised that insurance remained the most reliable means of transferring risk and bouncing back from sudden losses that could devastate families and businesses. Speaking to the Daily Graphic on the sidelines of the 2025 Insurance Fair in Accra, Dr Iddrisu explained that every segment of Ghanas economy needed insurance protection against lifes uncertainties and should be embraced by all. Statistics The industry push comes as many Ghanaians, particularly those in the informal sector, remain vulnerable to financial ruin from accidents, illness, fire, theft, and other unexpected events that insurance could help them to survive. According to provisional data released by the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) in collaboration with the Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), Ghana recorded 7,289 road crashes and 1,504 fatalities between January and June 2025. The report further indicates that 12,354 vehicles were involved in various accidents during the six-month period, resulting in injuries to 8,300 individuals. Additionally, 1,301 pedestrians were reported to have been knocked down across the country. These figures, Dr Iddrisu said, reflected the urgent need for Ghanaians to adopt insurance as a proactive measure to secure themselves and their families against financial ruin. The annual event is organised by the Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL), in collaboration with the National Insurance Commission (NIC) and the GIA. Held on the theme, Boosting Insurance in the Formal and Informal Sectors in Ghana, this years event brought together insurance sector players, state and corporate institutions, as well as individuals, to explore opportunities within the sector. The three-day event sought to address the countrys insurance penetration challenges while positioning the sector as a critical pillar of national development. Some participating insurance companies at the event were the State Insurance Company Ltd, Enterprise Insurance, GLICO Life, Equity Health Insurance, Serene Insurance, Millennium Insurance, Prudential Life Insurance, MiLife Insurance and Hollard Insurance. Others were Bedrock Insurance, Vanguard Assurance, Imperial General Insurance, Sanlam Allianz, Nsia Insurance, Old Mutual and Coronation. Dr Iddrisu described the fair as an opportunity to connect with the insured and uninsured populations. He explained that the informal sector, which contributed over 80 per cent to the national economy, remained a major target for micro-insurance products and mobile-based services. People in the informal sector own businesses, assets and properties, just like those in the formal sector. Some are even wealthier. So, why shouldnt they be insured? he quizzed. Dr Iddrisu added that the insurance industry was gradually shedding its conservative image and embracing innovation. Today, with just a click of a button, you can get insurance via telecom platforms like MTN or Telecel. There are exciting digital insurance solutions to meet various needs, he said. Low penetration Touching on the state of the industry, he stressed that the insurance sector still had a lot of room for growth, with penetration currently below two per cent of Growth Domestic Product (GDP). Dr Iddrisu attributed the low uptake partly to mistrust, negative perceptions, and limited understanding of insurance products. Many people buy a product expecting something entirely different. But when you understand what youre buying, your experience with insurance will be totally different, he stated. He, therefore, advised the public to be well informed before committing to any insurance product, adding that insurance companies were committed to paying legitimate claims promptly. Seek clarification. Ask questions. Understand exactly what you are signing up for. That is the only way to ensure the product truly serves your needs. Paying claims is our business. Its even a form of advertisement when we pay quickly and genuinely, the GIA First Vice-President stated. Featured 'Let it not be another declaration on paper' Mahama rallies Africa on reparative justice Kester Aburam Korankye & Pacome Emmanuel Damalie Jul - 29 - 2025 , 13:54 4 minutes read President John Dramani Mahama has urged African Union (AU) member states and leaders to empower the institutions mandated to lead the campaign for reparative justice. According to President Mahama, the AU Executive Councils approval of terms of reference for the AU Commission of Experts on Reparations and the African Union Reference Group of Legal Experts on Reparations was a commendable milestone that must be backed with adequate resources. We must now move swiftly to personalise these instruments. We must empower these bodies with the resources, visibility, and mandate to lead us on this noble journey of truth, justice, and restitution. Let this not be another declaration left on paper; let it be a living mandate for action, he said. President Mahama made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the 13th AU High-Level Dialogue on Democracy, Governance and Human Rights at the Accra International Conference Centre on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. Democracy and civic space The President called on participants to take a decisive stand for legally binding frameworks across all AU member states to protect the continents civic space. He emphasised the right to organise, protest, and participate, and called for the protection of press freedom and the voices of youth, women, and marginalised groups. He underscored that African leaders must practise a democracy that is not only institutional but also rooted in the lived experiences and aspirations of their citizens. Democracy cannot thrive in the presence of fear or repression. The legitimacy of governments depends on the inclusion of all, he stated. As part of efforts to strengthen state building, President Mahama advocated for political education as a key pillar. He noted that widespread civic disengagement was often a result of exclusion, mistrust, and systemic failure. Therefore, we must integrate political and civic education into our school curriculum. We must encourage public engagement through national dialogues and community platforms, and we must ensure that our democratic institutions speak a language our citizens understand and trust, he urged. President Mahama encouraged African leaders to boldly pursue justice not only for the past but also for present and future generations. He emphasised that the quest for justice must inform the policies enacted and the institutions built across the continent. Context and event The High-Level Dialogue (HLD) is a flagship initiative of the AU convened under the auspices of the African Governance Architecture and African Peace and Security Architecture (AGAAPSA) Platform. It provides an annual space for inclusive reflection and policy dialogue on democratic governance, human rights, peace, and security. This years two-day event, themed Justice, Reparations and State Building, sought to explore structural and normative enablers to deepen democratic governance across Africa. The event was attended by a host of dignitaries including former Heads of State, former Prime Ministers and Vice Presidents, AU leaders, ministers, African heads of mission, and international delegations. Notable personalities present included the Commissioner of the AU Commission on Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye; former Ethiopian President, Sahle-Work Zewde; former President of Botswana, Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi; former Vice President of Zimbabwe, Joice Mujuru; former Tunisian Prime Minister, Najla Bouden; and the African Youth Ambassador for Peace (AYAP), Simone Mbode Diouf. Also in attendance were Ghanas Acting Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonney; former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo; NDC General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey; and Minister for Communication, Innovation and Digital Technology, Samuel Nartey George. Call for collaboration In his welcome address, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, underscored that sustainable development and peace must be anchored in fairness and redress of historical injustice. He described the dialogue as a timely opportunity to explore pathways for justice inspired by the wisdom of Africas past leaders, the energy of the youth, and the resilience of the diaspora. Ghana, he said, remains steadfast in its advocacy for reparative justice and inclusive state building rooted in the legacies of colonialism, slavery, apartheid, and exploitation. Transformation through justice Delivering a speech on behalf of AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Commissioner Bankole Adeoye stated that Africa must focus on transformative change driven by peace and justice. We continue to aspire for a united, dignified, globally influential Africa. But, as we gather today, the fundamental truth is that justice, including reparative justice, peace and stability, must be the cardinal principles, the cornerstones of our transformation, he said. He stressed that reparations are not isolated from justice and collective rights but are foundational to reconciliation, democratic renewal, economic advancement, and sustainable peace. Commissioner Adeoye noted that although Africa faces daunting challenges, they are not insurmountable. He called on African leaders and the AU to reaffirm their commitment to the Unions shared values and norms. Next article: DVLA to phase out 'DP' vehicle aluminium number plates issued at ports from August 1 Previous article: President Mahama calls for legally binding frameworks to protect press freedom and civic rights in Africa Featured SSNITs strategic investments stabilise economy - D-G touts achievements at Diamond Jubilee launch Diana Mensah Jul - 29 - 2025 , 12:01 5 minutes read The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has invested GH2.42 billion in the countrys financial services sector. The fund currently holds shares in 22 of the 36 companies listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange, thereby playing a stabilising role in the economy. SSNITs current investment in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) companies stands at over $500 million, making it the largest institutional investor in the countrys telecommunications sector. The Director-General (D-G) of SSNIT, Kwesi Afreh Biney, who made this known in Accra yesterday, said through its subsidiary, the fund had currently contributed 126 megawatts of power to the national grid. Speaking at the launch of the 60th anniversary of SSNIT, the D-G said SSNIT was on track to double that capacity by the end of the year. The Vice-President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, launched the anniversary. Also present at the launch, which was on the theme: "Social Security at 60: A Legacy of Service, included the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, the Board Chairman of SSNIT, Nana Ansah Sasraku III, who is also the Chief of Mamfe Akwapim, ministers of state, past director-generals and board chairpersons, traditional and religious leaders and staff of SSNIT. Social Security began in Ghana in 1965 as a modest Provident Fund. Over time, it matured into a pension scheme in 1991 under PNDC Law 247, and has since evolved into a robust three-tier pension scheme. Mr Biney said SSNIT was the first to respond to the student housing crisis by providing decent and affordable hostel facilities and offering 4,250 beds across six university campuses nationwide. He said the fund had provided over 9,685 housing units built across the country, making SSNIT the country's largest institutional real estate developer, helping thousands of families move closer to homeownership. "While we take pride in these accomplishments, we are mindful that impact is not measured by investment alone. It is measured by how well we serve, how earnestly we reflect, and how courageously we evolve," Mr Biney said. Mr Biney said Social Security was more than just monthly pensions, hence the Trust were mandated to supports every Ghanaian through every season of their lifeincluding unexpected hardships and losses. Sustainable social security Launching the 60th anniversary celebration, the Vice-President called for collective efforts to build a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable social security system in the country. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said Social Security should provide protection for all workers in Ghana, regardless of location or occupation, as it was a true indicator of its effectiveness. She said the informal sector remained largely uncovered, denying millions the security they deserved, hence the need to work together to enrol as many of those workers as possible into the scheme. Pensions must be demystified and rooted in the financial culture of our people. We must make the scheme stronger, more equitable and more sustainable, and broaden its coverage to reach informal sector workers and the self-employed, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said. On sustainability, she stressed the need for prudent financial management and sound investment strategies to ensure long-term viability. Innovation Prof. Opoku-Agyemang urged the Trust to continue to strengthen its governance structures, deepen stakeholder engagement, and embrace innovation to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving labour market. "The rise of the gig economy, automation and remote work presents new challenges to traditional Social Security models. We must anticipate and participate in these shifts, and innovate accordingly, in order to remain relevant, she said. She praised the evolution of the SSNIT Scheme into a formidable national institution that has protected the livelihoods of millions of Ghanaians. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening SSNITs policy and regulatory framework and ensuring its financial sustainability. She challenged the leadership of SSNIT to use the 60th anniversary as a turning point to enhance public confidence and align closely with the governments Reset Agenda. Lifeline Mr Debrah said the Trust had become a vital lifeline for workers and pensioners alike, ensuring that citizens who dedicated their lives to the development of the country could retire with dignity and financial security. He lauded SSNIT for adapting to changing times through reforms, innovation and a strong commitment to sustainability, adding that the trust now leveraged technology to deliver more efficient and accessible services to its contributors and clients. The Board Chairperson said over the years, SSNIT had built a sizable investment portfolio, with assets under management currently standing at over GH20 billion. He said the fund was committed to better managing the investment portfolio to maximise returns and ensure the sustainability of the scheme. Background On February 17, 1965, Parliament passed the Social Security Act, 1965 (Act 279), establishing a national Social Security Fund. It was administered under the Department of Pensions and National Insurance. In November 1972, NRC Decree 127 established the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) as an autonomous body to administer the Social Security Scheme as a Provident Fund. Following the passage of the Social Security Law of 1991 (PNDCL 247), the Fund was converted into a Pension Scheme. The National Pensions Act, 2008 (Act 766) was passed in 2008, which introduced a Three-Tier Pension Scheme to streamline and enhance pension benefits for workers. It also established the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) to oversee all pension schemes in the country. Daddy Lumbas death: A national loss NDC, NPP Daily Graphic Politics Jul - 29 - 2025 , 09:57 2 minutes read The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have expressed sorrow with the passing away of Ghanas highlife musician, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, describing it as a national loss. The two major political parties expressed their condolences to the family of the deceased. This was contained in two separate statements signed by the NDC chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah and the General Secretary of the NPP, Justin Kodua Frimpong. NDC In its statement, the NDC said Daddy Lumba belonged to that class of Ghanaian musicians who transcended every barrier and was loved and admired by each and every one of his fellow citizens. It said his death was yet another sad testament of the unpredictability of life and death, and the merciless manner in which it claims the bright and the beautiful, and the young and the old. As the family and friends prepare to give him a befitting burial, the NDC party stands ready to be of comfort and assistance to the family as they go through this painful experience, it said. NPP The NPP described Daddy Lumba as an "iconic music legend" whose remarkable contributions to the Ghanaian music industry touched countless lives. It praised Daddy Lumbas ability to connect with people from all walks of life, describing him as a national treasure whose music brought joy, comfort and inspiration to millions. It acknowledged Daddy Lumba's significant role in its political campaigns, particularly through the famous track "Nana Ye Winner", which featured prominently in the party's 2008, 2012, and 2016 election campaigns. "The power and inspiration behind those songs were acknowledged even by our political opponents," the statement noted. The statement assured the family, friends and fans of the NPPs solidarity in this period of mourning. "In the years to come, Daddy Lumba will be remembered not only for his immense contributions to music but also for his role in uplifting and uniting the Ghanaian spirit," it stated. In a tweet, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo described the late artiste as a pantheon among musical greats of all time, acknowledging both the personal loss of a friend and the national loss of a cultural icon. On his part, former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia said the sudden demise of the musician is a major blow to the nation and the music industry. "His brilliant compositions and works have not only entertained but also inspired and uplifted many of us. His passing is indeed a huge blow, not only to the music fraternity but to the entire country," he said in a post shared via Facebook. Michael Blas, the alleged victim in an attempted murder trial, returned to the witness stand Tuesday, recounting in detail how he was restrained, shot and left bleeding in a remote Yigo property on April 2. The defense also started its cross-examination on day 2 of the trial against Jathan John Pangelinan Tedtaotao, one of three siblings accused in the attack. Shaenita and Jeromy Moe Pangelinan will be tried separately later. The case is being heard before Presiding Judge Maria T. Cenzon. Tedtaotao faces charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault, kidnapping, possession of a deadly weapon, and destruction of evidence. Defense attorney Joseph Razzano questioned Blas about the shooting sequence. When you were struck with the bullet, you had said you were standing, yes, OK, and then you got hit, Razzano asked. You said, then it felt like my leg gave out and the shooting stopped. Is that correct? Blas described what happened after he was shot. After I got hit twice, I was still standing, but I walked towards the doorway, and then right when I was gonna step over the cement, thats when I felt my leg give out. Thats when I fell, Blas said. He confirmed he was hit in the left leg, possibly below the knee, but could not say which bullet struck first. I was still standing when I got hit the first time, Blas said. He said he collapsed as he reached the doorway. Right when I stepped, thats when I felt my leg give out, Blas added, confirming the shooting stopped after he fell. Blas said two individuals arrived to help him, to cut the zip tie off. They were still trying to cut it because they were pretty thick zip ties, he said. So they had a hard time taking it off or cutting it off. When asked if he was alone while waiting for emergency responders, Blas said, They were still there. He testified a friend helped stop the bleeding and placed a belt around his leg. He came later on, Blas said, confirming the friend did not live in the area. Blas said he was interviewed by police at the hospital but was feeling the effects of the pain medication. I was in and out of consciousness, he said. Previous testimony Blas first testified Monday, telling jurors he was beaten with brass knuckles, kidnapped at gunpoint, zip-tied and shot twice by Tedtaotao, along with his siblings. He said he collapsed and screamed in pain after being shot twice in the knee and thigh as the siblings fled the scene. Blas was transported to Guam Regional Medical City, where he underwent surgery and remained hospitalized until April 8. On Tuesday, when asked whether he told police that Jeromy Pangelinan was the shooter or was carrying a rifle, Blas responded, I dont recall. Razzano then presented a photograph of a firearm during testimony. It looks familiar, Blas said. Well, from the front side, yes, it actually does. Prosecuting attorney Grant Olan resumed questioning, pressing Blas on conflicting statements about his departure from the house. You testified that you willingly left your friends house with Jathan and Shaenita. But yesterday, you testified that you couldnt refuse. Do you remember that? Olan asked. Yes, Blas responded. So which is it? Did you willingly go, or was it that you couldnt refuse? Olan asked. Oh yeah, I said yes, I agreed to go with him, Blas replied. Could you have refused to have gone? Olan asked. I could have but I was thinking what else was gonna happen if I refuse, Blas said. Do you remember...yesterday where you testified you said that you had a gun pointed to you when you indicated you really couldnt refuse? Olan asked. Yes, Blas said. So does that mean you werent free to leave? Olan asked again. No, Blas answered. Blas confirmed he saw Tedtaotao fire a gun, and that Jeromy Pangelinan did not initially have a weapon but later retrieved one while running toward him. I was going in towards the house, Blas said. Theyre both in the same direction, and at that time, Jeromy didnt have a weapon. He only retrieved it when I took off. While Blas said both brothers were coming toward him when he was shot, he could not identify which one fired. I wasnt able to see, he said. I just heard the gunshots. When asked why he did not run when given a chance, Blas said, Because then he just shot at me. When asked why he did not run back into the house, Blas said he believed the brothers could have followed him inside. He also confirmed no one else was inside the home at the time. Judge Cenzon and Olan informed Blas that he remains subject to recall, meaning that he can be summoned back again to testify. Key witness couldnt be found Before testimony resumed Tuesday, the prosecution told the court it had been unable to locate a key eyewitness who allegedly saw the events unfold at the Yigo home. A warrant for the witnesss appearance was issued Tuesday morning. Shaenita Pangelinan faces charges of kidnapping, aggravated assault, and destruction of evidence. Jeromy Pangelinan faces charges in 11 separate cases, including an April 5 shooting in Talofofo, carjackings, and a high-speed chase followed by a police shootout in Dededo on April 6. A forensic evaluation by Dr. Juan Rapadas is due August 5 and a hearing for his case is set for August 19. The trial resumes at 9 a.m. Wednesday. Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero wants the military to take a closer look at how military activities are impacting the island and its residents, with an environmental impact statement for Guam missile defense plans done and the plans marching forward. The governor on Monday said she is still processing the final analysis in the EIS, but has already sent a number of concerns to the Department of Defense. They would be bringing in about 2,300 people, 1,000 active and then 1,300 independents. And so thats going to be a further strain, I think, on our infrastructure, Leon Guerrero said in an interview. Local think tank Pacific Center for Island Security was quicker to draw a conclusion on the EIS, saying the document brushes aside significant impacts that the new system will have on Guam. Some 36 missile interceptor launchers and 14 radar arrays, spread across the island at 16 sites, are outlined in the final EIS for the missile defense system published Friday. Publishing the EIS is the last step before the Missile Defense Agency and Army can decide on whether to proceed with the plans. They wait at least 30 days from publication. Leon Guerrero said there needs to be some mitigation for the extra 2,300 permanent residents contemplated for the missile system, or else water, power, and other infrastructure will be further strained. Im hoping that, as a result of this EIS study, that the Secretary of Defense will call for an economic adjustment committee, the governor said. She said such a committee would bring together multiple federal agencies. We would then make our presentations on how this buildup is going to impact our community, Leon Guerrero said. The governor appealed to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth for such a committee during his visit to Guam in March. This month, Del. James Moylan reported he was pushing for it in the House Armed Services Committee. Leon Guerrero on Monday said the economic impact was what got projects like the new Public Health laboratory and the Guam Cultural Repository built. Both were funded in connection with the ongoing military buildup. The governor said environmental studies for the missile defense system did look at local issues like health care and housing, but, when we were making our comments, we felt that they needed to delve into more other issues than they did. False sense of security Robert Underwood, chairman of defense watchdog PCIS, was more critical of the missile defense plans. The EIS is best characterized as promoting an uncertain, if not false, sense of security. At the same time, it ignores the lives of the people the military says they are protecting, Underwood said in a statement. It offers a militarized technological solution to complex strategic, diplomatic, and economic challenges, while the people of Guam are offered a frontline seat to conflict with no regard for their concerns over housing, environmental degradation, or personal safety, he added. PCIS release disputes statements from the MDA, which previously said the system will defend the people, infrastructure, and territory of Guam. The think tank pointed to limits on the systems ability to defend the island in a saturation attack and military training that accounts for Guam being unavailable in conflict. No study or funding for civilian shelters are proposed, while billions are poured into the missile defense system, PCIS stated. Nor is any funding put aside to deal with impacts on housing, medical services, or native forests and species, it stated. A congressionally mandated review of the system from Lincoln Labs is notably left out of the EIS. This proposal would introduce a new level of weaponization to our community, while offering minimal benefits in terms of increased security, PCIS stated. The EIS overlooks issues that increase insecurity in populated areas adjacent to the 16 proposed sites around Guam, PCIS added. This approach also allows the MDA to avoid discussion of the movement of missile launchers and reloading operations that are certain to expose the civilian population to additional insecurity in the event of conflict. The trial of two men accused of sexually assaulting a then 13-year-old girl began Tuesday afternoon before Superior Court Presiding Judge Alberto Tolentino. Kason Andon and Mannix Frank Songeni, who both appeared in Tolentinos courtroom, are facing multiple charges. Andon, also known as Keetpap Tokoko and Keison Andon, is charged with first- and second-degree criminal sexual conduct, both first-degree felonies. The charges also carry a special allegation of committing a felony while on felony release. Songeni faces charges of first-degree criminal sexual conduct and complicity to commit the same. According to the Guam Sex Offender Registry, he has a prior conviction for indecent exposure involving five girls aged 12 and 13 in 2015. During opening statements, Prosecuting Attorney Christine Tenorio urged jurors to carefully consider the victims account, which she first disclosed nearly two years after the alleged assaults. The case centers on events that began when the girl was 13, initially in a tent community behind the Dededo flea market, and later at an apartment in Barrigada. Tenorio said the Child Protective Services removed the girl and her siblings from their mothers care shortly after her 13th birthday, placing them with their paternal grandmother. The girls disclosure came after rumors circulated at Astumbo Middle School about her being pregnant. Although she denied pregnancy to school officials, she confided in the school nurse about a sexual abuse that had happened a year and a half earlier. The girls allegations led to police interviews and an investigation that resulted in the arrest of Andon. Tenorio on Tuesday described the assault in detail. This starts with Mr. Andon pushing her to the wall and then dragging her, sending her on the bed, and as he lays her on the bed, Mr. Songeni actually holds her wrist above her, the attorney said. Andon proceeded to rape her, according to the attorney. The girl is crying, but nobodys home, because they all left for the store, Tenorio said. Tenorio said afterwards, Songeni forced her to perform oral sex on him. But all of this happened in this period of time where mom is at the store, and so this ends. The reason why this ends is because now mom is back and shes banging on the door, and shes like, let me in, Tenorio said, describing the layout of the apartment as a studio. Theres no bedrooms, so mom is banging on the door. So when shes banging the door, everybody puts on their clothes, and she runs into the bathroom, she said. Tenorio then recounted that the girls younger sister walked on the bathroom door and asked, Whats wrong? And when she saw her sister, she realized that her sister was naked. That is the incident, and that is why theyre both on trial, Tenorio said. Mother didnt believe daughter She also told the court that the girl and her sister reported the assault to their mother, who did not believe them. The moms like, I dont believe you. Thats it, the end, Tenorio said. Thats why the police never got involved until two years later. Its because the mom just didnt believe her. She also referenced a prior incident involving Andon where the girl had previously told her mother about a night when they were living in the flea market tent. During that night, Tenorio said, Andon reached over her clothing and touched her vagina. She cried out loud, waking her sister. When her mother woke up, she dismissed the girls claims, saying, Why? I dont believe you? You guys are just lying. The investigation also faced delays because the girl did not know Songenis real name. Tenorio, her former investigator and police eventually created a lineup based on her description, focusing on Songenis bad eye, which led to her identifying him and his arrest. So we put the lineup together. We pull her out of school at the time, and she identifies Mr. Songeni. So thats actually how we ended up tracking him down, the attorney said. Medical evidence was unavailable due to the elapsed time since the assault. Again, this is two years later, and you will see photos of the house, but they didnt live there anymore, the house where the sexual assault occurred, Tenorio said. Our investigators went out and took photos, but its just to show you the space. Shes doing a lot better The attorney told the jury they will hear the girls story. Youll hear that she has gone through counseling. Shes doing a lot better, Tenorio said. Tenorio also told the jury about some of the limitations they would face in reviewing evidence. The thing about criminal cases that I always have to tell people is you cannot see police reports. OK? Reports. OK, thats called hearsay. Youre not going to be able to see the whole case file. Thats just not how court goes she said. Everything you hear is going to be what is said thereSo youre not gonna be able to see those reports, but youll hear the evidence from there. Defense: Troubled childhood Defense attorney Thomas Fisher, representing Andon, challenged the credibility of the victims statements. He pointed out the girls troubled childhood and the inconsistent accounts. There is no denying, and this is the evidence youre going to hear, is that this family was severely dysfunctional. You can tell already by the evidence that intends to bring out that they were living in poverty, Fisher said. They were forced into small spaces together, and at one point they even lost the house they were living in. Fisher went on to describe the harsh conditions the family endured, painting a picture of a difficult and unstable childhood. In fact, youre going to hear this from friends who, when they were living in a tent, reported that they even had to look for puddles to shower themselves, and they were using the outdoors for the restroom, he said. So it was a dire situation, and that is the way the children are living, and I guess they were taken by CPS. But it was the dynamic of the family, very chaotic and just a sad place for a child to be raised. He questioned the reliability of the girls statements, quoting a biblical verse. It reminds me of a verse, I think it was from the Bible, and it is this, when I was a child, I spoke as a child, Fisher said. We all know children and we dont think children dont think in the same way adults do. He recounted how the girl told a friend she was pregnant, which prompted further questioning. Fisher pointed to the confusion surrounding the girls claim of pregnancy, noting that the evidence shows she told a friend at school she was pregnant and that her aunt or mother urged her to take a pregnancy test, which showed two lines. She then believed she was about one month pregnant, but that claim was ultimately false. She was just being a kid and whatevers going on in the cafeteria at middle school, but that person she reported that to pulled off, and thats how she got brought into the office, Fisher said. He added that the girl was also questioned by another nurse. I would submit that the evidence will show that, you know, she was being a kid, she kind of shut down and immediately diverted to an accusation that she was touched, raped, Fisher said. Fisher pointed out that the girl had been interviewed multiple timesabout eight times in the past monthand called attention to the inconsistencies in her statements. He said the frequent interviews led to different versions of her story because, as a child, her perspective and the way she communicated naturally changed over time. He urged the jurors to take into account the girls difficult background and life situation. While recognizing that she may need help and support, Fisher argued that convicting the two men based on conflicting and unreliable testimony would not be the proper way to provide that help. Fisher said the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center needed to further evaluate the girls mental state. Defense attorney Terrence Timblin, representing Songeni, echoed Fishers statements and challenged the case after charges were dropped following a 2024 grand jury indictment. He questioned the reliability of the witnesss shifting statements, citing multiple interviews by Guam Behavioral Health and the Office of the Attorney General. The trial resumes Wednesday. Haiti - FLASH : Justice adopts a protocol concerning deported Haitian criminals On Monday, July 28, 2025, as part of the new measures taken by the U.S. administration for the arrest, deportation, or extradition of Haitian nationals for their participation in financial crimes, or for their complicity in crimes committed by terrorist groups on Haitian territory, https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45387-haiti-flash-deportation-measures-against-legal-permanent-haitian-residents-in-the-united-states.html Patrick Pelissier, the Minister of Justice and Public Security, announced in a memo the adoption of a protocol for the processing of cases of Haitian nationals deported or extradited for financial crimes or complicity in the criminal activities of terrorist groups. Protocol adopted for the processing of each case : "Art. 1 - Any Haitian national deported or extradited from the United States or any other country and accused of committing or attempting to commit financial crimes in Haiti, or accused of supporting, financing, advising, or directly or indirectly assisting criminal or terrorist groups in their crimes in Haiti, shall be handed over, immediately upon arrival on Haitian soil, in good condition, to the Government Commissioner. Art. 2 - Any Haitian national deported or extradited on the charges cited shall be held under the orders of the Government Commissioner, either in the premises of the Central Directorate of the Judicial Police (DCPJ) or in any other detention facility appropriate to their case and situation. Art. 3 - The Government Commissioner shall, without delay and with diligence, prepare the file of the deported or extradited individual and refer it to the investigating office. Art. 4- Throughout the investigation of the case, the Government Commissioner will forward any newly discovered evidence to the investigating office. To this end, he will request the support of all financial control institutions (UCREF, ULCC, BAFE, IGF, etc...), as well as any legal or natural person likely to provide it with additional information, in accordance with the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure and the laws governing the handling of these offenses. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45387-haiti-flash-deportation-measures-against-legal-permanent-haitian-residents-in-the-united-states.html HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - News : Zapping... Digicel FLASH : Outage in the South Message from Digicel : "We would like to inform all our customers that we are aware of the service interruption affecting several municipalities in the south of the country. Our technical teams are already mobilized and working to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. We continue to experience significant access difficulties to Nationale Road 2 (RN2), whose infrastructure is seriously affected. However, we are doing everything we can to restore service today. We regret the inconvenience and thank you for your patience and understanding." Reginald Boulos to be deported On Sunday, July 27, 2025, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a customs and border control agency of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, announced that Pierre Reginald Boulos, arrested on July 16 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45385-haiti-justice-prominent-haitian-businessman-reginald-boulos-arrested-in-the-usa.html , had lost his legal permanent resident status in the United States. The reason for this decision, according to ICE, is that Boulos failed to report his alleged involvement in a campaign of violence and his support for gangs to destabilize Haiti. He is expected to be deported to Haiti soon. Seizure of 425.9 kg of marijuana On Sunday, July 27, 2025, the Cap-Haitien Drug Trafficking Bureau (BLTS), along with several units of the Northern National Police, conducted an operation around 3:00 a.m. in Petite Anse, where officers seized, during a search in the presence of Justice of the Peace Dieula Benjamin, 425.9 kg of marijuana and 525,245 gourdes, among other items. Three suspects were arrested: Somane Etienne (60 years old), owner of the house; Guerda Pierre (38 years old); and Myrlande Fils Adore (34 years old). Artibonite : New Departmental Director On Friday, July 25, 2025, Divisional Inspector Jean Frenel Beauvoir took office as the new Departmental Director of the Haitian National Police (PNH) in Artibonite. He replaces Caleb Exantus, who spent nearly a year in this position. 2 new projects for the most vulnerable: On Friday, July 25, 2025, as part of the Safety Net Strengthening Program for Vulnerable Populations, Viva Rio launched two new water kiosk construction projects: one in Santo 19 and the other in the village of Lumane Casimir. Twenty-seven small civil engineering projects are planned in the commune of Croix-des-Bouquets. These community initiatives enable thousands of heads of household, both men and women, to earn a vital income to meet their household needs. This program is implemented by the Economic and Social Assistance Fund (FAES), with financial support from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 Our Grenadiers continue their preparation by following a targeted program, essential for improving overall endurance and optimizing performance over time. On Monday, July 28, they participated in a training session focused primarily on aerobic capacity, which corresponds to the cardiorespiratory system's ability to capture, transport, and use oxygen to produce energy during prolonged moderate exercise. HL/ HaitiLibre Tesla wants to have its next but one automotive processor AI6 manufactured by Samsung. The manufacturing contract is worth around 16.5 billion US dollars over a period of several years. However, it will still take some time before it starts. Anzeige Samsung initially reported the contract to the South Korean authorities without naming the customer. The notification is necessary due to the high monetary value. Tesla boss Elon Musk then confirmed that Samsung will manufacture the AI6. The news agency Reuters reports from several sources that Musk is referring to the 16.5 billion dollar contract. Driving assistance powered by Samsung The AI6 will be Tesla's next processor for the driving assistants in its own cars and, in the best case, for full self-driving (FSD). Tesla has been promising the completion of the FSD for several years. Samsung is currently producing the AI4 originally announced as Hardware 4 or HW4 with 4-nanometer technology. With the upcoming AI5, Tesla is switching to the world's largest chip contract manufacturer TSMC for the time being. The chip is expected to use 3-nanometer technology. This explains why, according to Musk, TSMC will first manufacture it in Taiwan and then in the new Arizona semiconductor plant. TSMC is delaying the introduction of new production processes in the USA. Musk recently confirmed in an analyst conference that Tesla is postponing series production of the AI5 by one year. It is currently not scheduled to start until the end of 2026 or early 2027. Anzeige The AI6 is therefore not expected until 2029. According to Samsung, the agreement with Tesla will initially last until the end of 2033. 2 nm production technology or even more modern technology seems likely. Samsung needs customers For Samsung, this is the first major customer announcement in years. The company has never announced a prestigious customer for the 3 nm generation, for example. Samsung's chip manufacturing division has long been considered unreliable, allegedly due to low chip yields in production, among other things. TSMC is now increasing its prices, which is increasing customer interest in Samsung again. Meanwhile, Samsung is said to be giving Tesla, and Musk in particular, a great deal of room for maneuver. Musk writes on X that Tesla should help out with "production efficiency". " I will walk the line personally to accelerate the pace of progress," Musk claims. Samsung will manufacture the AI6 at the new Texas semiconductor plant in Taylor. This is unlikely to make much difference to the delayed expansion, as production is years in the future. (mma) Don't miss any news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication. The teenagers were playing ball in the water about 100 metres from the shoreline when nearby beachgoers began to hear splashing and calls for help. Attempts were made to assist, but witnesses were unable to reach the boys before they disappeared underwater. Three teenage boys with Somali backgrounds drowned at Hiekkasarkat beach in Kalajoki on Friday, prompting shock and mourning across Finlands Islamic community and raising questions about beach safety and supervision. Two of the boys were recovered on Friday. The third was located late Saturday with the help of sonar equipment and a volunteer diver from the rescue service. According to Yle and confirmed by the Northern Finland Islamic Congregation, all three boys were of Somali descent. Abdul Mannan, the congregations imam, said he had been informed of the deaths by relatives of the victims and had been acting as a liaison between the families and the police. Speaking by email, Mannan said the deaths had caused deep sorrow across the Muslim community. We are trying to carry out the funeral rites as soon as possible, he said. Mannan also criticised the lack of supervision at the beach. Why were these boys allowed to swim at Kalajoki without oversight? he asked. This is a serious failure. Hiekkasarkat, a popular beach destination in Northern Ostrobothnia, has had no lifeguard presence for over two decades. Mannan said seasonal supervision should be introduced, especially during summer months when visitor numbers increase. Police have not commented on the boys swimming ability. Minna Vuori, the lead investigator from the Oulu police, said no specific information on their skill level was available. Data from the Finnish Swimming Teaching and Lifesaving Federation shows that a significant share of near-drowning incidents at beaches and pools in Finland involve individuals from immigrant backgrounds. A similar near-fatal event involving migrant families occurred in Espoo in mid-July. The boys were reportedly born in 2008 and 2009. Their names have not been released by authorities. Candle memorials were placed on the beach at the site of the incident over the weekend, as local residents and members of the community gathered to pay their respects. HT Fifteen of the seals were found around the Pellinge archipelago near Porvoo, and four more were located in the Loviisa area. No signs of external injuries or visible trauma have been found on the animals. Nineteen seals were discovered dead along the shores of Porvoo and Loviisa in southern Finland over the weekend, prompting concern and an ongoing investigation into the unexplained deaths. This is unusual. In my ten years of work I dont recall anything like this, said Petronella Jansson, municipal veterinarian for environmental health in Porvoo. One of the seals has been sent to the Finnish Food Authoritys laboratory in Oulu for analysis. The results are expected within one to two weeks. Preliminary findings revealed no discolouration, wounds or other visible indicators that could suggest a cause of death. According to Jansson, the other carcasses appear similar and show no signs of having been deliberately harmed. Nothing currently suggests they were killed intentionally, she said. The seals were found washed up in various locations across the archipelago, and it is unclear how long they had been in the water before being discovered. Likely not very long, as the bodies would have started to decompose quickly, Jansson noted. One of the main concerns is the possibility of a contagious disease outbreak. A virus such as avian influenza, which has previously been detected in seals in other parts of Europe, would be among the most serious scenarios. However, there have been no known outbreaks of avian influenza or mass bird deaths in the Porvoo region this summer. Its also possible the cause is some kind of poisoning, Jansson said. Porvoo authorities have warned the public not to touch any dead seals with bare hands, as wild marine animals can carry infectious bacteria. Landowners are responsible for disposing of dead wild animals found on their property. Guidance is available on the Food Authoritys website. According to Jansson, finding a few dead seals in the Porvoo archipelago each year is not uncommon, particularly during spring. But the scale of the recent discovery is unprecedented in the area. Further testing beyond bird flu may take longer, depending on the complexity of the analysis. We hope results will take weeks, not months, Jansson said. The findings from Oulu are expected to help determine whether the deaths were caused by illness, environmental toxins, or another factor. Until then, the cause remains unknown. HT On Wednesday 30 July, President Alexander Stubb will host Santiago Pena , President of Paraguay, for a working visit at the Presidential Palace. On Thursday 31 July, Finland will host the Helsinki+50 conference at Finlandia Hall, marking the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act. Traffic in central Helsinki will face temporary disruptions on Wednesday and Thursday due to an official state visit and the international Helsinki+50 conference . Police said the events may lead to short-term road closures and special arrangements in key areas. Police said no major traffic congestion is expected but advised the public to prepare for brief interruptions and localised restrictions. Severe congestion is not expected, said Jari Kaikko, Chief Superintendent at Helsinki Police Department. However, there may be short-term disruptions. On Wednesday, changes to traffic patterns will focus mainly on the area around Kauppatori, close to the Presidential Palace. The meeting between the two presidents is expected to attract increased security and protocol-related restrictions. On Thursday, traffic will be affected in the vicinity of Finlandia Hall and along Mannerheimintie. The busiest periods are expected around 9:00 in the morning, when most guests arrive, and again around 20:00, when the last departures take place. Kaikko said most attendees will arrive by foot, public transport or taxi, which should help to minimise road traffic impact. Public transport is expected to operate normally throughout the two days, according to police. Ferry and boat traffic in the waters off central Helsinki will also remain unaffected. Normal traffic operations are scheduled to resume on Friday. Finland currently holds the rotating chairmanship of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). The Helsinki+50 conference commemorates the signing of the 1975 Helsinki Final Act, which laid the foundation for the OSCE. The event will bring over 1,000 participants to Finlandia Hall. Attendees include representatives from all 57 OSCE participating states and 11 partner countries, as well as civil society organisations. Following the main event, discussions on the future of the OSCE will continue at Finlandia Hall on Friday 1 August. HT The Finnish Meteorological Institute confirmed the latest measurement as part of an ongoing pattern of unusually high temperatures across the country. Finland recorded a 30-degree Celsius temperature for the 17th consecutive day on Monday, setting another national heat record. The milestone was reached in the eastern municipality of Lieksa, where temperatures hit 30.1C shortly after 17:00. Elias Paakkanen, meteorologist at Yle, said the extreme heat shows no signs of easing. Forecasts indicate that more records could fall as the current weather system continues to hold across much of Finland. Conditions remain favourable for additional 30-degree days, Paakkanen said. The 17-day stretch is the longest period of daily highs reaching or exceeding 30C since temperature data collection began in Finland. The previous record, set in 1972, lasted 13 days and was surpassed earlier this month. The persistent heat has affected both rural and urban regions, with the highest temperatures typically observed in eastern and central parts of the country. Residents in Lieksa, Joensuu, and Jyvaskyla have reported daily highs near or above 30C throughout the past two weeks. Authorities continue to monitor the impact on health services, agriculture, and infrastructure. Public health officials have issued advisories urging people to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. Hospitals have reported a rise in heat-related medical visits, particularly among older people and those with pre-existing health conditions. Energy providers have noted a rise in electricity demand due to increased use of fans and air conditioning systems. Water companies in urban centres said consumption is running above seasonal averages. Emergency services have responded to an increase in vegetation fires, with several regions still under forest fire warnings. Conditions remain dry in many parts of eastern Finland, where rainfall has been limited for most of July. The prolonged heat has also affected crop development. Farmers have reported early signs of drought stress in grain and vegetable fields, particularly in southern regions. Some municipalities have begun rationing irrigation water. Weather forecasts for the coming days suggest continued heat, with temperatures again expected to approach 30C in many areas. Brief thunderstorms may offer temporary relief but are unlikely to change the overall weather pattern. The meteorological institute continues to issue daily updates and has not set a formal end date for the heat warning. HT Speaking during a visit to France, Valtonen told Yle that Finland is monitoring developments closely and maintaining dialogue with its international peers, but has not initiated any formal shift in position. Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said on Monday there is no current reason to alter Finlands policy on recognising the State of Palestine, despite increasing international calls for action and growing political pressure within Europe. We are, of course, cooperating with the international community and, crucially, with our most important peer countries, she said. Last week, France announced its intention to formally recognise Palestine during the United Nations General Assembly in September. The decision is expected to influence other European countries, including Finland, where the issue has returned to public debate. Valtonen identified Denmark and the United Kingdom as countries Finland views as relevant reference points in foreign policy. She said Finland is in active dialogue with those governments, but that each state acts independently. Each state makes its own sovereign decisions, she said. Valtonen recently met her French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot, but declined to say whether France had encouraged Finland to take a firmer stance. Jean-Noel and I speak almost daily. It doesn't require intense lobbying it's more about exchanging information and perspectives, she said. Valtonen added that discussions with Barrot also covered topics beyond the Middle East. She noted, however, that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains a critical concern. We're witnessing famine and immense human suffering. The international community and the EU have a duty to do everything they can to alleviate this suffering, she said. While Finlands political leadership has previously stated that recognition of Palestine could occur alongside action by comparable European states, the governments current position remains unchanged. Valtonen stressed that foreign and security policy is constitutionally led by the president in cooperation with the government. At this stage, there hasn't been a need to update our official position, she said. Finland has long supported a two-state solution to the IsraeliPalestinian conflict. Valtonen reiterated that this remains the guiding principle of Finnish diplomacy. Despite the government's unchanged stance, domestic political pressure is increasing. A recent Yle survey found that a majority of parliamentary parties support recognition. The Social Democratic Party, Left Alliance, Greens and Movement Now all favour immediate action. Valtonens National Coalition Party and the Swedish Peoples Party also support recognition in principle, but prefer a more gradual approach. The Finns Party and the Christian Democrats oppose the move outright. The division within the governing coalition complicates any rapid shift in policy. The foreign ministry has not announced any timeline for potential reconsideration, and no formal legislative or diplomatic steps are currently underway. Valtonen said that Finland would continue to observe the positions of key allies but would make any decision according to its own foreign policy process. HT Jukka Salovaara , Finlands Permanent State Secretary at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, will represent the country at the event. Finland will participate in a high-level international conference in New York aimed at advancing a two-state solution to the IsraeliPalestinian conflict. The meeting, taking place from 28 to 30 July, brings together foreign ministers and senior officials from across the international community. The conference has been convened by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and is co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia. It was initially scheduled for June but was postponed due to developments in the Middle East. Finland supports a two-state solution as the only lasting way to ensure the rights and security of both Israelis and Palestinians, said Salovaara ahead of the meeting. He added that sustained international involvement is essential to strengthen the conditions for peace and long-term regional stability. The conference aims to prepare groundwork for further discussions during the UN General Assembly week in September. Talks are expected to focus on practical measures to promote negotiations and reduce current tensions. Finland has consistently aligned its Middle East policy with the broader position of the European Union, which calls for a negotiated settlement and the recognition of two independent states. The participation comes as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to draw international attention. Aid agencies have warned of deteriorating conditions, while diplomatic activity has increased ahead of upcoming UN sessions. Finland has not made any recent changes to its official position on recognising the State of Palestine, though domestic political pressure has increased following announcements by other European countries, including France, signalling future recognition. HT In 2020, the number of home-schooled children rose to 585, a 25 percent jump from the previous year. By 2024, that number had grown to 881, according to the Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI). The number of children receiving home education in Finland has continued to grow, four years after the Covid-19 pandemic forced temporary school closures across the country. Education officials say the increase is now part of a broader shift in how some families approach learning. Riia Palmqvist, education counsellor at EDUFI, said the trend took hold during the pandemic and has since continued, partly due to changes in working culture. Remote work became normalised, and it led some parents to homeschool their children, for example, for two months during the ski season in Lapland or while staying on the Costa del Sol, she said. In such cases, families often return their children to regular school once the period away is over. Palmqvist, who supports in-class instruction, said that while homeschooling is permitted under Finnish law, it is not intended as a tool for extended family travel. Under current legislation, parents do not need special permission to homeschool their children. A notification to the local municipality is sufficient. While education is compulsory in Finland, the location and format of that education are not strictly defined at the national level. Municipalities are responsible for monitoring progress, though oversight can vary. EDUFI has expressed concern that some home-schooled children may require remedial teaching once they return to school. Despite recent increases, the number of home-schooled pupils remains low compared to the total number of children in comprehensive education in Finland. Marjukka Saarnisto, vice-chair of the Finnish Home School Association, said the growth is not solely linked to the pandemic. She pointed to deeper concerns within the school system and changing attitudes among parents. Awareness about the option has grown, and at the same time, problems within the school system have increased, she said. These days, parents are more willing to make bold decisions if they believe its in the best interest of the child. She noted that many families spend considerable time evaluating the decision to leave traditional schooling. But in some cases, the shift happens quickly due to urgent problems such as bullying or insufficient support. Sometimes home schooling is a last resort, Saarnisto said. While data on the academic outcomes of home-schooled children in Finland is limited, EDUFI maintains that structured classroom education remains the preferred model. Palmqvist said the agency continues to stress that homeschooling should meet educational standards, regardless of where it takes place. HT The prison, located in the Zaporizhzhia region, was struck during a series of attacks carried out by Russian forces across several parts of Ukraine. Ukrainian regional officials confirmed the death toll following damage assessments at the site. A Russian missile strike on a prison in southeastern Ukraine killed at least 16 people and injured 35 others overnight between Monday and Tuesday, according to reports from Ukrainian authorities and international news agencies. Ivan Fedorov, Governor of Zaporizhzhia, said on Telegram that the prison complex was severely damaged in the attack. He also reported that surrounding residential buildings sustained structural damage. The attack occurred amid a wave of overnight strikes. News agency AFP reported that total fatalities from the nights raids reached at least 20, with over 40 others wounded across multiple regions. In the Dnipropetrovsk region, four people were killed and several others injured in separate strikes, according to local authorities. The attack in Zaporizhzhia was part of a broader offensive pattern that included drone and missile launches targeting infrastructure and residential areas. The Ukrainian air force said that most of the incoming drones were intercepted, but some penetrated air defences and caused damage. Drone nets have recently been installed in major cities, including Zaporizhzhia, in an attempt to limit the impact of low-altitude aerial attacks. The strike on the prison was one of the deadliest such incidents in recent weeks. Elsewhere, Ukraine's military reported damage to transport infrastructure following further drone attacks by Russia on Sunday night and Monday morning. Kyiv and the western city of Starokostiantyniv, home to a military airbase, were among the targets. Tensions between Russia and the West intensified further after Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian president and current deputy head of Russias Security Council, warned that comments by US President Donald Trump could lead to direct conflict between the United States and Russia. Trump had earlier announced a shortened deadline of 10 to 12 days for Russia to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine, down from a previously stated 50-day period. He has threatened sweeping tariffs on countries trading with Russia if the demand is not met. Responding to the remarks, Medvedev wrote on X that each new ultimatum is a step closer to war, not between Russia and Ukraine, but between Russia and the United States. Ukrainian authorities also responded to reports from Russian state media that a Finnish woman serving with Ukrainian forces had been killed in Donetsk. The Finnish Foreign Ministry said it could not confirm individual cases but acknowledged that Finnish volunteers continue to die or go missing in Ukraine. In the southern Russian city of Volgograd, Ukrainian drone strikes reportedly disrupted rail and air traffic. Local authorities said electricity systems supporting railway operations were hit. Volgograds airport was temporarily closed as a result. Meanwhile, the EU has frozen 1.5 billion of a planned 4.5 billion civilian aid package to Ukraine due to concerns over governance and anti-corruption compliance. According to The New York Times, the suspension followed rapid legislative changes in Ukraine that weakened the independence of anti-corruption agencies. President Volodymyr Zelenskyi responded by proposing new legislation to reverse those changes but has not yet secured parliamentary approval. Back on the battlefield, Russian forces claimed to have taken further territory in central Ukraines Dnipropetrovsk region. Ukrainian authorities have not confirmed these claims. The Zaporizhzhia prison strike adds to the rising civilian toll in a conflict now in its fourth year, with continued attacks against infrastructure, military targets, and residential areas. HT Trump's orders, state legislation kill DEI, city attorney tells council Executive orders signed by President Trump and state legislation that would become law if the General Assembly overrides a veto bar policies and practices that promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the city of Hendersonville, City Attorney Angela Beeker told the city council last week. Related Stories The executive orders Trump signed upon taking office terminated DEI programs in federal agencies, combated illegal private sector DEI preferences, mandates, policies, programs and activities and barred recipients of federal grants from operating DEI programs. Thats the one that really affects us as a local government the most because we receive federal funding, Beeker told the council during its July 23 meeting. New federal funding applications require a certification that we dont have and wont have any kind of DEI programs and activities, she said. And if we have DEI programs, having made that certification, it can subject us to liability under an act called the False Claims Act. The executive order is very broad and even though it doesnt have the force of law, it still has very serious implications, Beeker said. She cited a letter that the EEOC sent to 20 major law firms in the United States. They said in that letter that telling recruiting committees or recruiting firms that you want diverse candidates just doing that is considered unlawful discriminatory DEI practices, in the administrations opinion, she said. For the city, the same prohibition would apply. So, for example, diversity requirements for hiring panels, or if you wanted to have a diverse candidate pool, any type of preference like that, theyre going to consider to be a violation, Beeker said. Under the False Claims Act, if the city certified that it had no DEI programs and an investigation determined that we did have a DEI program, such that that certification was false, we could be subject to litigation and have to pay back three times the amount of the grant and could have civil penalties imposed against us. Veto override vote expected Passed by the General Assembly, House Bill 171, says you cant use state funds or any public money to promote, support, fund, implement or maintain DEI initiatives or programs, Beeker said. The bill carries a penalty of $10,000 per violation and that could be against individuals, not just the city, plus personal liability for damages suffered by local government as a result, and then also removal from office. The bill also requires the city to report annually to the state auditor activities that the city did to remove DEI and comply with this law and directs the state auditors office to conduct compliance audits. Although Gov. Josh Stein vetoed House bill 171 on July 3, legislative leaders are expected to attempt an override. (The bill was placed on the House calendar for possible action on Tuesday, July 29.) As you know, the meetings of our DEI committee have been suspended until we know what is going to happen, primarily at the state level, because this is going to have the force and effect of law if the veto gets overturned, Beeker told council members. Already we have retooled a few smaller grants to comply, but we will be bringing back policy amendments and things like that for you all to consider, even in light of the executive orders. City response to concerns The city responded to citizens concerns about Trumps executive order back in March in a statement it issued publicly, saying it remained committed to serving and representing all members of our community with fairness, dignity, and respect. But, it added, because it is required to operate within the framework of state and federal laws (the city) must also consider the legal risks associated with noncompliance. Here is the statement the city posted on its website and on Facebook on March 21: As leaders of a representative government, we work to ensure that all residents and customers continue to have access to City programs and services that contribute to a high quality of life. City staff are currently reviewing recent executive orders and proposed state and federal legislation to assess their potential impact on local governments abilities to uphold protections against discrimination and ensure equal service to the public. We recognize there are many in our community experiencing fear, frustration, and the feeling of not being heard. We acknowledge these concerns and affirm that their voices matter. Hendersonville is stronger when all people feel safe, valued, and included, and we remain committed to listening and engaging with our residents in meaningful ways. As a municipal government, we are required to operate within the framework of state and federal laws. While we remain dedicated to fostering a welcoming, vibrant, and healthy community, we must also consider the legal risks associated with noncompliance, including potential liability, legal action, and funding implications. We do not take this responsibility lightly. Above all, we remain steadfast in our duty to serve and support all residents of Hendersonville with professionalism, integrity, and respect. -30- The Kremlin said on Tuesday that it wanted to pursue peace in Ukraine hours after mounting attacks that killed at least 25 people, including a 23-year-old pregnant woman and more than a dozen prison inmates. The strikes on several regions came hours after US President Donald Trump issued Moscow with a new deadline to end its grinding invasion of Ukraine -- now in its fourth year -- or face tough new sanctions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of purposefully targeting a prison in the Zaporizhzhia region -- that Russia claims as its own -- killing 16 people and wounding more than 40 others. "It was a deliberate strike, intentional, not accidental. The Russians could not have been unaware that they were targeting civilians in that facility," Zelensky said on social media in response. The Kremlin denied that claim. "The Russian army does not strike civilian targets," spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, including from AFP. Peskov added that Moscow had "taken note" of Trump's new deadline and told journalists that it remained "committed to the peace process to resolve the conflict around Ukraine and secure our interests." Ukraine's justice ministry said Moscow's forces hit the prison with four glide bombs, while police said 16 inmates were killed and 43 were wounded. Bricks and debris were strewn on the ground around buildings with blown-out windows, according to images released by the ministry. The facility's perimeter was intact and there was no threat that inmates would escape, it added. Rescue workers were seen searching for survivors in pictures released by the region's emergency services. The source added there were no Russian war prisoners being held at the centre. Ukraine's human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said the Zaporizhzhia attack was further evidence of Russian "war crimes". "People held in places of detention do not lose their right to life and protection," he wrote on social media. In addition to the glide bomb attack, the Ukrainian air force said that Russia had launched 37 drones and two missiles overnight, adding that its air defence systems had downed 32 of the drones. Zelensky said that among the separate attacks, Russian forces had targeted a hospital in the town of the Kamyanske in the Dnipropetrovsk region. "Three people were killed in the attack, including a pregnant woman. Her name was Diana. She was only 23-years-old," Zelensky said. Separate strikes in the eastern Kharkiv region that borders Russia killed six people, regional authorities said. In the southern Russian region of Rostov, a Ukrainian drone attack killed one person, the region's acting governor said. Kyiv has been trying to repel Russia's summer offensive, which has made fresh advances into areas largely spared since the start of the invasion in 2022. The Russian defence ministry claimed fresh advances across the sprawling front line on Tuesday, saying its forces had taken control of two more villages -- one in the Donetsk region, and another in the Zaporizhzhia region. The prison strike on Tuesday came on the three-year anniversary of a attack on another detention facility in occupied Ukrainian territory that Kyiv blamed on Moscow and that was reported to have killed dozens of captured Ukrainian soldiers. Ukraine and Russia blamed each other for the strike over the night of July 29 three years ago on the detention centre in the Russian-occupied Donetsk region, which the Kremlin says is part of Russia. Ukraine says that dozens of its soldiers who laid down their arms after a long Russian siege of the port city of Mariupol were killed in that attack on the Olenivka detention facility. On December 1, 2025, the Comfort Hotel Victoria in downtown Flor will change its name to Scandic Victoria Flor. The Helle family, which currently owns the hotel, will continue to operate under the Scandic brand according to a franchise agreement. The hotel will be Scandic's 19th franchise hotel - an important part of the company's long-term growth strategy. At the end of 2025, Scandic will open Scandic Victoria Flor, which will be the company's first hotel in Norway's most westerly city. Flor is known for its natural beauty and robust business community, making the city an attractive destination for business and leisure travelers alike. The Helle family, who signed the franchise agreement with Scandic, will continue to operate the hotel, and they have ambitious plans to continue developing it under the Scandic brand. Today, Scandic has 18 franchise hotels in Sweden and Norway, and Scandic Victoria Flor will be the 19th franchise in the company's portfolio. Franchise hotels are important to Scandic's growth strategy for 2030. The long-term franchise agreement with the Helle family will strenghten Scandic's presence in western Norway and Flor. In recent years, the hotel has undergone a comprehensive upgrade, and today it offers 97 rooms and meeting capacity for up to 150 people. Within the framework of Scandic's growth strategy for 2030, which was presented at the company's capital markets day earlier this year, Scandic's goal is to add 40 to 50 new hotels and 10,000 rooms, with about 70 percent expected to be in the Nordic countries. Establishing franchise hotels is a key element in enabling expansion in new destinations. Hotel website Mexico Grand Hotels is set to redefine the Cabo San Lucas boutique scene with the highly anticipated debut of Kadun, a 110-room retreat opening in October 2025 just steps from El Medano Beach and the iconic Cabo Marina. Offering a soulful blend of heritage, design, and barefoot elegance, Kadun invites travelers to experience Baja California Sur through a more intimate, grounded lens. The name "Kadun" comes from the language of the Pericu, the region's original inhabitants, and refers to the cardon cactus, a striking desert plant that symbolizes resilience and grace. This sense of rootedness carries through every aspect of the hotel's design and guest experience, from architecture that echoes Contemporary Mexican "Casona" to moments of connection with local art, cuisine, and culture. Designed for discerning travelers looking for a sense of place, Kadun offers a mix of thoughtfully appointed rooms and spacious suites, some with oceanview terraces, outdoor jacuzzis, and kitchenettes. Warm, earthy palettes and clean, organic lines set the tone, while expansive windows bring in light and the surrounding beauty. Kadun's experience-forward amenities include: A rooftop pool and sun deck with panoramic views A signature restaurant spotlighting hyperlocal ingredients and contemporary Baja flavors A casual cafe and deli perfect for grab-and-go mornings A full-service spa and wellness center with a steam room and holistic rituals A rooftop lounge ideal for sunset cocktails or stargazing Flexible meeting spaces and event areas for intimate gatherings or creative retreats As part of the Mexico Grand Hotels family, Kadun guests will enjoy shared access to sister properties, including Vista Encantada Spa Resort & Residences, Hacienda Encantada Resort & Residences, and Marina Fiesta Resort & Spa, expanding the possibilities for wellness, dining, and leisure during their stay. Opening October 2025, Kadun brings a new perspective to Cabo San Lucas, one that celebrates tradition while embracing thoughtful luxury in the city's most vibrant setting. Hotel website Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced plans for Hyatt Centric Anjuna Goa, which will be a significant addition to Hyatt's Classics Portfolio in one of India's most vibrant leisure destinations. Slated to open in 2027, the property is currently under construction and will be managed by Nile Hospitality. Located in the heart of Anjuna, North Goaa destination renowned for its eclectic mix of beach culture, nightlife, and heritage appealthe hotel is strategically positioned to cater to both business and leisure travelers and small groups seeking immersive experiences. Hyatt Centric Anjuna Goa is owned by Deventure Hotel and Resorts Private Limited and will feature 150 keys, including standard king and twin guestrooms and modern suites. Guests will enjoy a lifestyle experience with signature amenities, including two thoughtfully curated restaurants complemented by outdoor seasonal dining areas - a main restaurant, a specialty restaurant, deli and a bar, and flexible meeting and event spaces. The hotel is designed to serve as a local home base where savvy travelers can discover the hidden gems of Goa, all within close proximity to the hotel. Hyatt Centric Anjuna Goa will join a growing portfolio of eight Hyatt Centric properties across India, catering to the modern explorer looking to stay in the heart of the action so they never miss a moment of adventure. For more information about the Hyatt Centric brand, visit hyattcentric.com or follow @HyattCentric on Instagram. Hotel website Minor Hotels, a global leader in the hospitality industry with over 560 hotels, resorts and branded residences across 57 countries announces the appointment of Michael Robinson as General Manager at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort effective from 30 June 2025. A seasoned hospitality professional with more than 15 years of global experience, Michael brings a dynamic leadership style shaped by senior roles across the United States, Middle East, and Asia. Recognised for his guest-centric approach and strong operational foresight, he has consistently driven performance while delivering memorable luxury experiences. Michael joins Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort following a successful tenure within the Minor Hotels portfolio, most recently serving as General Manager at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort. Over a period of two and a half years, he led the property through a phase of strategic enhancement, driving measurable gains in guest satisfaction and operational performance. Prior to this, he spent two and a half years at FCC Angkor by Avani in Siem Reap, Cambodia, where he steered the resort through the post-pandemic recovery, overseeing its relaunch and re-establishing its market presence with strong financial and reputational outcomes. Earlier in his career, Michael held senior positions with Hyatt Hotels, including roles at Grand Hyatt Doha and Park Hyatt Dubai, contributing to his well-rounded global perspective and operational depth. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in International Hotel Management from the International College of Hotel Management in Adelaide, Australia, and a Diploma in International Hotel Management from the Swiss Hotel Association. Michael's leadership philosophy is grounded in collaboration, cultural fluency and a commitment to excellence. Known for empowering teams through a shared vision, he places strong emphasis on authentic engagement with guests, colleagues and ownership partners alike. Michael steps into the role as the resort embarks on a significant phase of renovation, with a multi-million-dollar investment currently underway. The planned improvements include upgraded accommodation, a dedicated adults-only area and refreshed dining concepts. These developments are expected to further strengthen the resort's appeal as a premier luxury destination on Palm Jumeirah. On July 21, 2025, the Board of Directors of Club Med Holding announced the appointment of Stephane Maquaire as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Club Med Holding, effective immediately. Based on the recommendation of Henri Giscard d'Estaing, Club Med's rigorous succession and evaluation process identified Stephane Maquaire, a French national, as uniquely qualified among the candidates considered to lead the company into a new phase of profitable growth. Stephane Maquaire will lead Club Med Holding from Paris and ensure the preservation of the French identity and values at the heart of the brand. A graduate of Ecole des Ponts et Chaussees, Stephane Maquaire began his career at Arthur Andersen before joining Unibail-Rodamco, and later Monoprix, where he led an ambitious transformation combining premium repositioning, digital acceleration, and a strong focus on sustainable development. He went on to lead Vivarte in France, then Swiss retailer Manor, before joining Carrefour in 2019. As Executive Director for Carrefour Brazil and Latin America, he oversaw a 20 billion business, restructured the company's portfolio, integrated Walmart, expanded the Atacadao format, and drove a strong omnichannel strategy. Known for his approachable leadership style, hands-on management, and deep commitment to inclusion and sustainability, Stephane Maquaire brings to Club Med a wealth of experience in complex and multicultural environments. The Board wishes to thank Henri Giscard d'Estaing, for his accomplished leadership over the past two decades, which has been instrumental in delivering Club Med's successful transformation and in preparing the company for its next chapter. A key criterion for the succession process has been the pursuit of the Group's strategy of international expansion while preserving its French roots and long-standing core values. Stephane Maquaire brings strong leadership experience with French companies on the international stage. With deep expertise in premium brand transformation as well as commercial real estate, he has demonstrated a consistent track record of growth, operational excellence and consumer-facing innovation. Stephane Maquaire joins Club Med from Carrefour, where he served as Executive Director for Carrefour Brazil and Latin America. Following the appointment, Stephane Maquaire met with the three incumbent Deputy CEOs to examine operational priorities. As President and CEO, Stephane Maquaire will build on the current strategy while guiding the company to seize new opportunities in a fast-evolving travel and hospitality landscape. As part of its continued commitment to international governance and diversity, besides Stephane Maquaire, two new members will be added to the board: Philippe Heim and Takuya Yamada. Philippe Heim is a seasoned executive with extensive management experience in France and internationally, including key leadership roles at Societe Generale, as CFO and deputy CEO, and after as Chairman of the Executive Board of La Banque Postale, while Takuya Yamada, Chairman of IDERA Capital, the asset manager of Club Med's two resorts in Japan, has collaborated closely with Club Med in recent years. Their appointments reflect the global footprint of both Fosun and Club Med, and shareholder's ambition to strengthen international participation at the highest level of the company. Sofitel Dubai Downtown, the flagship address of French art de vivre in the heart of the city, has appointed Chef Edward Mairas its newExecutive Chef , a move set to further refine the hotel's culinary vision and amplify its global flair. With over two decades of experience orchestrating kitchens across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, Chef Mair brings to Dubai an extraordinary blend of classical training, inventive spirit, and a deep respect for regional tastes. The Scottish-born chef is widely recognized for his ability to lead large culinary teams with precision and passion, curating menus that are as emotionally resonant as they are technically accomplished. From overseeing Michelin-recommended venues to spearheading hotel openings, Chef Mair has earned a reputation for delivering immersive dining experiences at scale, from intimate tasting menus to high-volume galas for over 1,500 guests. His culinary journey has taken him across some of the world's most sophisticated cities, where he has consistently elevated kitchen culture and championed culinary excellence. At Sofitel Dubai Downtown, Chef Mair will take the reins of the hotel's vibrant gastronomic portfolio spanning restaurants, lounges, in-room dining, and banqueting. His focus: to craft a distinctive culinary identity rooted in French savoir-faire while embracing the cosmopolitan energy of Downtown Dubai. Chef Mair's arrival signals a bold new era for Sofitel Dubai Downtown, one where tradition meets innovation, and every dish tells a story worth savoring. Fairmont Breakers Long Beach is pleased to announce the appointment of Andre Brose as general manager of the landmark hotel located in the heart of downtown Long Beach, California. An accomplished international hotelier with 25 years of hospitality experience, Brose brings a deep understanding of operations, leadership, and exceptional guest service. He steps into this role following the property's multi-million-dollar transformation, which marked the celebrated return of one of California's most historic hotels. Growing up in Germany, Brose developed a passion for hospitality early and began his career in the food and beverage sector at Hotel Adlon Kempinski in Berlin, followed by front office and leadership positions at Le Royal Meridien Hamburg. His expertise in both the food and beverage and lodging divisions has proven instrumental in curating exceptional guest services, supported by high-performing teams. Brose's career has taken him to global destinations across Europe and North America with various executive roles at luxury hotels, including Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa Edinburgh, The St. Regis San Francisco, and The West Hollywood EDITION. Prior to joining the property, Brose served as general manager at Lido House, an Autograph Collection Hotel in Newport Beach. His hands-on approach and strategic involvement contributed to the hotel earning numerous accolades, notably a coveted Four Diamond designation, recognition in Tales of the Cocktail's "Best Hotel Bars," and the #1 hotel ranking in Newport Beach by U.S. News & World Report. A two-time recipient of the Starwood Hotels & Resorts President's Award, Brose is known for his leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence. Brose brings a wealth of knowledge to Fairmont Breakers Long Beach during a pivotal moment in the hotel's story. Originally built in 1926, the property has been reimagined into a luxury retreat with immersive experiences and thoughtfully designed spaces that honor the building's heritage while incorporating contemporary touches. The hotel is home to Long Beach's only luxury spa and rooftop bar and several signature food and beverage concepts, including the beloved Sky Room. In the lobby, guests can enjoy Nettuno's authentic Italian fare or live jazz with craft cocktails at Alter Ego, which pays homage to the hotel's roots as an escape for A-listers in the Roaring Twenties. Virtuoso, the global leader in luxury and experiential travel, continues to focus on expanding and refining the products it offers its members and advisors, preferred partners and the travellers they serve across the nine regions worldwide in which Virtuoso operates. Lucy Lieberman has been named Vice President, Global Digital Experience, further advancing its product offerings and services in an era of global growth and transformative development for Virtuoso. Lucy Lieberman, who joined the Virtuoso team in June, is a seasoned executive with more than 20 years of expertise in marketing, product development and operations. Previously, she served as CEO of Hotels at Michelin, where she was responsible for global travel services for Tablet Hotels and MICHELIN Guide. Lieberman also spent 10 years with Ogilvy and Mather, most recently serving as Managing Director, where she delivered marketing ROI for brands such as InterContinental Hotels Group, American Express, IKEA and BlackRock. Wailea Beach Resort, Marriott Maui announces the return of Chef Charles Andres as executive chef. This strategic selection underscores an ongoing commitment to delivering restaurant-caliber, regionally inspired cuisine that honors Hawai'i's bounty. Chef Charles Andres returns to Wailea Beach Resort as executive chef, bringing more than two decades of culinary leadership and a deep-rooted connection to the Maui community. A longtime member of the resort 'ohana, Andres previously served as Executive Sous Chef at Wailea Beach Resort from 2019 to 2024, where he helped shape its high-volume culinary operations and reimagined key offerings such as transitioning the traditional luau to a family-style format. Most recently, he held the role of executive chef at Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, where he oversaw a 60-person kitchen team, implemented cost-saving initiatives and successfully led the execution of VIP events. His career also includes senior roles at Roy's Restaurants, where he served as chef partner and experience as a chef-owner in San Diego. In his new role, Andres will direct the property's culinary vision, championing partnerships with local farms, fisheries and distilleries, sustainable sourcing, and nurturing a high-performing team. Following an extensive property-wide refresh, including the debut of Signature Oceanfront Villas, the resort is poised to build upon its renewed guest experience through the evolution of its dining program. With Lindquist overseeing all food and beverage operations and Andres at the helm of the kitchen, visitors can expect immersive food and beverage experiences that go far beyond traditional resort fare, setting a new standard across the oceanfront property. Marriott St. Louis Grand is proud to welcome Don Lenahan as the new General Manager for the hotel. He brings 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry. This includes two decades with Marriott International, where he has held leadership roles across luxury resorts and large-scale convention hotels in both domestic and international markets. Lenahan's business philosophy is rooted in continuous improvement, seamless alignment, talent development, and empowerment, all designed to cultivate a high-performing service culture. He most recently served as General Manager at Marriott International's Sheraton Overland Park Hotel at the Convention Center in Overland Park, Kansas. Under his leadership, the hotel achieved benchmark results in guest service, associate engagement, and owner investment. Previously, he served as the Complex Hotel Manager at Marriott International's multi-branded complex that includes the Westin Kansas City at Crown Center and the Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center. The complex has 1,444 guest rooms, 150,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space, and 9 food and beverage outlets. Earlier in his career, he held numerous executive positions for The Ritz-Carlton in California, Georgia, Texas, Dubai, and Jamaica. The Ritz-Carlton is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marriott International. As an active community member, he served on the board of directors of the Overland Park Convention and Visitors Bureau. He was also Co-Chair for the Marriott Business Council in the Kansas City metro area. Marriott International continues to focus on growth in the DACH (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) region with the appointment of Michal Reschke as Director of Development for the area. This move strengthens the company's commitment to expanding its footprint in these key markets. Michal Reschke brings over 13 years of experience in hotel development, project feasibility, and strategic consulting. Prior to her appointment, Reschke served as Director of Development & Project Feasibility at H World International / Steigenberger Hotels, overseeing development in the DACH and Benelux regions. During her tenure, she led the international feasibility team and played a critical role in implementing growth initiatives. Michal Reschke's background includes roles at Der Touristik / Rewe Group, where she worked on joint ventures and large-scale hotel projects, and at Feuring Hotelconsulting, where she gained expertise in site analysis, brand strategy, and contract negotiations. Her international experience also includes positions at Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts and Starwood Hotels & Resorts. Marriott International sees significant expansion opportunities in the DACH region, especially with the growing demand for reliable midscale offerings in both primary and secondary locations. The company also reports an increasing interest in conversion projects for brands like Four Points by Sheraton, Four Points Flex by Sheraton, and Series by Marriott. Currently, Marriott's portfolio in the DACH region includes over 160 hotels with more than 32,000 rooms across 20 brands. Some of the strongest represented brands are Moxy Hotels (38 hotels), Courtyard by Marriott (24), and Autograph Collection (19). As part of its long-term growth strategy, Marriott is focusing on expansion through new projects and a dynamic development pipeline. The planned growth is evident, with notable projects such as the addition of eight Four Points Flex by Sheraton hotels, six Moxy Hotels, and four additional Autograph Collection properties in development. FRANKLIN, Tenn. Quore, the leading provider of workflow management solutions for hotels, today announced that implementation of its Cleanings Plus solution is underway at 74 IHG Army Hotels, representing 12,190 guestrooms at 40 Army posts across the United States and Puerto Rico. Each hotel will be equipped to optimize performance, track room status, and coordinate tasks more efficiently. Cleanings Plus manages housekeeping from start to finish, streamlining communication, enhancing staff accountability, and boosting productivity. With customized cleaning inspection templates, breakout boards, and standard cleaning times, hotels can drive more efficient and optimized operations tracking. By gathering detailed performance data, Cleanings Plus enables smarter staffing decisions, eliminating the guesswork from labor management and saving hotels money. IHG Army Hotels is part of a collaboration between IHG Hotels & Resorts, the U.S. Army, Centinel Public Partnerships LLC, and the Armys Privatization of Army Lodging (PAL) program. The collective faces unique operational challengesand opportunitiesunlike any other hotel group in the world. The secure, gated nature of U.S. Army installations adds layers of logistical complexity for both guests and staff, making seamless communication and operational transparency even more critical. Were incredibly proud to support the mission of IHG Army Hotels through the rollout of Cleanings Plus. This project underscores how technology can help create efficient, secure, and respectful environments for the soldiers and families these properties serve. Vail Ross, VP of Business Development at Quore Quore and IHG Army Hotels have enjoyed a successful collaboration since 2019. The military lodging provider selected Quore for its user-friendly design, adaptability, and strong support model. We have a diverse and engaged team of operators. After evaluation, it became clear that Quores platform was simple, more intuitive, and easy to implement across our portfolio. That, paired with corporate support from IHG, made the transition seamless. Derek Nelson, Director of Regional Operations for IHG Army Hotels Nelson said that after testing Cleanings Plus, user feedback was immediate. Housekeepers, supervisors, and managers were able to communicate and assign rooms in real time via iPads, desktops, and phones , he said. Our GM at the Candlewood Suites Fort Gordon (the worlds largest Candlewood Suites hotel located on the Fort Gordon Army Post in Augusta, Ga.) even told us they were able to cancel their radio contract, saving hundreds of dollars monthly. It was that impactful. Key to the success of this rollout is Quores hands-on training and ongoing support. Each location has a designated Quore Champion, ensuring that questions are answered quickly and knowledge is passed down internally. The training and support from Quore have been exceptional, said Nelson. Theyre responsive, flexible, and genuinely listen to our feedback. With Cleanings Plus, even our new hires can easily access recorded training through our internal SharePoint, and our subject matter experts are always on hand. Working with Quore has been a real delighttheyre collaborative, responsive, and always looking for ways to help us improve. More Than TechnologyA Mission-Driven Collaboration Beyond operational impact, this deployment represents a meaningful partnership aligned with a shared mission to support military families. IHG Army Hotels is more than just a portfolioits a haven for our soldiers, their families, and guests , said Nelson. Were honored to operate these Army post properties. Each year, IHG Army Hotels hosts an internal conference that includes the Quore Awards, recognizing top-performing properties in areas such as consistency, work order completion, and platform usage. These awards drive friendly competition and deepen engagement with the Quore platform. This partnership is a win-win , said Ross. Were not just providing a productwere supporting a mission. Helping IHG Army Hotels serve those who serve is a responsibility we take seriously, and were thrilled to be part of this journey. For more information about Quore and its Cleanings Plus platform, click here. To learn more about IHG Army Hotels, click here. About Quore Quore empowers hoteliers to elevate guest experiences and optimize operations. As the leading hospitality operations platform, we streamline workflows across housekeeping, front desk, engineering, and management. Our solutions, trusted by over 7,400 hotels worldwide, including brands like IHG, Marriott, and Choice, simplify daily tasks from managing maintenance and guest requests to conducting inspections and tracking capital expenditures. Founded in 2012, Quore is a Tennessee-based company recognized for its rapid growth and commitment to employee well-being. Quore was named to the Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies, a Top Workplace by The Tennessean, and one of Forbes' Best Startup Employers. About IHG Army Hotels IHG Army Hotels operates and manages a portfolio of hotels located in 40 U.S. military installations. With a portfolio spanning more than 13,000 rooms, IHG Army Hotels offers all the conveniences of off-post hotels as well as features and amenities specifically designed for military travelers, and welcomes all members of the military, their families as well as civilians. For more information, visit www.IHGArmyHotels.com. Barb Worcester MARKHAM, ONTARIO The Doug Pictock 49 Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center sits at the heart of the Texas A&M campus, known for its striking glass towers and renowned service. To support its high operational standards and continue delivering exceptional guest experiences, the hotel sought to elevate internal communication and improve workflows particularly in housekeeping, one of the most complex departments in hospitality. Hotel leadership turned to Maestro PMS and PurpleCloud Technologies to enhance collaboration, support staff, and unlock new efficiencies. The Opportunity for Growth While the Texas A&M Hotel team already maintained strong service routines, they recognized opportunities to further optimize internal processes and eliminate inefficiencies stemming from disconnected legacy systems. For example, housekeepers were able to report work orders, but the system lacked detailed input options such as photo attachments or contextual notes. As a result, interpreting requests occasionally took longer, leading to delays and extra coordination among teams. These small communication gaps could add complexity to daily operations. Without real-time tools, room inspectors needed to make judgment calls with limited information, and frontline staff often had to physically visit the front desk for updates or clarifications sometimes spending up to 10 minutes per trip. Despite the teams commitment and effort, the absence of an integrated digital solution meant important details could be lost in translation, making it harder to respond swiftly to evolving guest needs. Recognizing this, leadership at the Texas A&M Hotel prioritized upgrading to a modern, mobile-first technology platform that could better support their proactive service culture and reduce operational friction. The Solution To solve these challenges, hotel leadership began searching for a mobile-first technology partner capable of providing continuity between departments through more dynamic communication tools. The hotel wanted to reduce traffic to and from the main office and enable its operations to take charge and respond to new developments. These desires led them to partner with Maestro PMS, enabling them to leverage the companys suite of All-In-One PMS capabilities alongside PurpleClouds service optimization platform. Communication improved virtually overnight after the onboarding process, breaking down silos and boosting efficiency and team cohesion. Using Maestro PMS GuestXMS, workers were able to quickly and easily report any issues or needs without breaking away from the task at hand, supported by expanded features offered through PurpleClouds messaging platform. Housekeepers improved contact with the front desk and maintenance, and they could see how much time was spent cleaning each room. These features helped increase productivity and engagement with the property by enabling them to communicate more clearly. Margaret Legum, Senior Account Executive for Maestro One of the most critical elements of the combined efforts of Maestro PMS and PurpleCloud was the ability to send images to select individuals or departments. With a few additional prompts, team members could quickly build and deliver complete work orders without the need to describe most issues in full. PurpleCloud and Maestro have been wonderful partners, and I could not be more pleased with the performance of their technology and the relationship with our property. These partners have given us the customization we needed in an easy-to-use software suite. It is great to see our rooms team so engaged and excited about using the joint system, particularly the built-in gamification tools and ease of work order creation. I truly believe Maestro PMS and PurpleCloud are a large reason why our guestroom satisfaction scores continue to rise. We recently reached a 96.6-percent satisfaction, and our productivity continues to improve. Greg Stafford, General Manager of the Texas A&M Hotel & Conference Center Gamification is a strategic approach to improve a hotels operations, efficiency, and worker satisfaction by drawing on employees natural inclination to complete tasks that can be tracked and subsequently rewarded. Gamification strategies are more effective than traditional workforce management tactics because they provide an equal sense of levity and control to the work environment. When used properly, both workers and managers benefit from their availability. Creating and responding to maintenance requests has never been easier thanks to PurpleClouds built-in work order function. Using this, any employee can snap pictures and create a ticket that shoots right over to our engineers. On top of this, the gamification option makes efficiently cleaning a room and entering tickets fun and rewarding. Lacey Lewis, Director of Rooms at the Texas A&M Hotel Gamifying a housekeeping workers shift may involve ranking their time to clean a room or the number of rooms they complete across several shifts, giving them rewards for reaching specific milestones. Using their phones, housekeepers can track progress toward rewards and view performance dashboards directly from PurpleCloud, enabling any department to build toward unique long-term goals regardless of property size Gamification is often infectious. It is not uncommon for one departments success with gamification to spill into others. When this happens, an entire property can benefit from a unified improvement process that benefits everyone through individual growth. This is much more than a reward system. It is a tool for constantly refreshing the core lessons that support hospitality while creating a more enjoyable work environment for hotel employees. Gamification helps associate a positive work environment with positive employee performance and goes a long way toward retaining workers in the long term. Adria Levtchenko, Co-Founder and CEO of PurpleCloud Integrating Maestro PMS and PurpleCloud eliminated manual systems like paper-based boards used to track room status and guest requests. Now, all staff can access up-to-date information from their mobile devices at the start of each shift. The Result Since implementing PurpleCloud, housekeeping boards now take only 20 minutes to create. Room inspections used to take 30 minutes and now take less than 10. And after one year of having PurpleCloud, the hotel saved close to 12% of its budgeted payroll. Likewise, the real-time visibility provided by Maestro PMS has improved the hotels ability to manage room inventory and reduce overbooking, providing significant cost savings. The organizations 360-degree room analysis dashboard and reputation management tools allow hotels to thoroughly understand their propertys performance while identifying areas for improvement. This visibility has also worked to raise accountability for each department, creating a culture of efficiency and satisfaction by breaking down the minutia of daily operations. We could not be happier with Maestro and PurpleClouds produc. The softwares ability to auto-assign housekeeping boards is robust and allows us to target our hotels specific needs using an array of available filters. Using PurpleCloud, we can set a maximum number of room types assigned per room attendant and can filter by room type, such as double queens. Our team loves this feature. Patti Culwell, Director of Operations at the Texas A&M Hotel & Conference Center Conclusion Following the adoption of Maestro PMS and PurpleCloud, the Texas A&M Hotel saw an increase in operational efficiency, positively impacting every department. Maestros full suite of All-In-One PMS features gave Texas A&M a balanced understanding of its operations while expanding its ability to interact with team members and guests. By working with Maestro PMS and PurpleCloud, the Texas A&M Hotel has optimized workflow processes, empowered hotel workers, and boosted overall productivity. The mutual collaboration instilled a newfound sense of efficiency and productivity in the hotel, ultimately enhancing the guest experience while reducing operational costs. PurpleCloud and Maestro offer game-changing technology that has helped the Texas A&M Hotel remain competitive in an evolving marketplace and set the standard for excellence in its competitive set. Thanks to PurpleCloud and Maestro PMSs support, the Texas A&M Hotel is more effective at managing many elements of our property, from payroll to minutes per room, Culwell said. Their support and willingness to make their system work for our hotels specific needs are impressive. They provide a greater level of support than what we experienced with previous providers. Every time we have requested new features, such as the ability to add, change, or write custom reports, we are always met with positivity and they deliver results. About Maestro PMS Maestro is the preferred Web Browser based cloud and on-premises all-in-one PMS solution for independent hotels, luxury resorts, conference centers, vacation rentals, and multi-property groups. Maestro's embedded payments system offers a PCI-compliant and EMV-ready enterprise system with 20+ integrated modules on a single database. This includes mobile and contact-free apps designed to enhance profitability, encourage direct bookings, centralize operations, and empower operators to engage guests in a personalized and secure manner. Maestro's Support Service further enhances the experience, providing unmatched 24/7 North American-based live support and education services. About PurpleCloud Technologies Headquartered in Atlanta, PurpleCloud Technologies is a privately held technology company that builds innovative software solutions and data analytics for the operations and management of lodging entities, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. The companys PurpleCloud Service Optimization Platform can help hotel and resort operators achieve increased productivity and decreased labor costs especially in housekeeping staffing, one of the largest cost centers in most hotel operations. PurpleCloud also provides an enhanced customer experience; engaged and empowered employees; and next-generation analysis of operations data for internal strategy development. The technology is also applicable for casinos and cruise lines. Barb Worcester NORTHWIND-Maestro Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of world-leading hospitality group Accor, invites guests to celebrate International Dog Day on August 26, with heartwarming stays that go beyond just pet friendly, which Make Special Happen for all of its guests. While Fairmont embraces this special holiday with a series of paw-fect offerings, Fairmonts global hotels and resorts continue to offer top-tier service and dog pampering all year round across its iconic destinations globally. Celebrate International Dog Day with Fairmonts Canine Ambassadors who offer a warm welcome to travelers and their furry companions at select locations. This team of primed pooches provides a special comfort by greeting guests in the lobby, accompanying them on walks and filling in whenever travelers are missing their own furry friends back at home. Dog lovers can find their own Canine Ambassador at these Fairmont hotels: Serene is the gentle Golden Retriever named, Chief Happiness Officer (CHO) at the just opened Fairmont Tokyo, greeting guests at Fairmonts first location in Japan is the gentle Golden Retriever named, Chief Happiness Officer (CHO) at the just opened Fairmont Tokyo, greeting guests at Fairmonts first location in Japan Calla, the Golden Retriever, loves being the first face to greet guests at the main entrance of Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. When she isnt welcoming new friends at the Main Lodge, she can be found taking long walks along Lac Beauvert and sneaking the occasional treat the Golden Retriever, loves being the first face to greet guests at the main entrance of Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. When she isnt welcoming new friends at the Main Lodge, she can be found taking long walks along Lac Beauvert and sneaking the occasional treat Cori Copley , the Insta-famous black Lab at Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston, proudly follows in her predecessors paw steps as the hotels most photographed team member. Beloved by travelers and locals alike, Cori can even serve as a ceremonial witness for onsite weddings booked through the hotels Pawfect Union package , the Insta-famous black Lab at Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston, proudly follows in her predecessors paw steps as the hotels most photographed team member. Beloved by travelers and locals alike, Cori can even serve as a ceremonial witness for onsite weddings booked through the hotels Pawfect Union package Georgie , the yellow Labrador at Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown, is a celebrated part of the guest experience, she is known for lobby greetings and sometimes attends breaks between guest meetings , the yellow Labrador at Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown, is a celebrated part of the guest experience, she is known for lobby greetings and sometimes attends breaks between guest meetings At Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, guests are greeted by beloved lobby Labradors, Ella and Elly , and can take part in the hotels pet program that includes in-room beds, treats, and a curated list of dog-friendly activities in the city , and can take part in the hotels pet program that includes in-room beds, treats, and a curated list of dog-friendly activities in the city Chardonnay at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa is named Director of Pet Relations and can be found roaming the grounds of the resort, ready to greet guests with a big Golden Retriever smile. Trained by Napa-based Canine Guardians, Chardonnays friendly nature and service-dog skills make her the perfect greeter for guests and their pets Fairmont is committed to ensuring all guests, including four legged, receive luxury and personalized service. Across the portfolio, many properties offer bespoke amenities and services, designed to ensure each pet is as comfortable as its human. Popular pup-tastic experiences are available at multiple Fairmont properties helping guests celebrate International Dog Day and beyond, with their furry friend, including: Dine Like Puppy Royalty with In-Room Gourmet Menus Canine companions staying at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and Fairmont Copley Plaza can enjoy the finer things in life with gourmet, room-service style dog menus featuring locally inspired, protein-rich meals. Whether curled up fireside in Jasper or an apres-adventure in Banff, dogs can dine in style with chef-crafted dishes that include indulgent touches like Bostons Codfish & Caviar - and yes, the service includes a fancy caviar bump. Tail Wagging Welcomes At various Fairmont properties such as Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Fairmont Chateau Whistler, F airmont Hotel Vancouver, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Fairmont Banff Springs, Fairmont Tokyo, or The Plaza - A Fairmont Managed Hotel, canine guests are greeted with more than just open arms. Upon arrival, pups receive their own cozy dog bed, bowls filled with fresh water, and a special dog-friendly welcome gift to kick off their stay. At The Plaza - A Fairmont Managed Hotel, up to two dogs per room are welcome with no size or weight limit and no additional pet fee. The Pampered Pup Package offers pets a custom Plaza-embroidered doggie bathrobe, and doggie-treat-tier filled with dog-friendly macarons (ingredients: oat flour, honey, coconut oil, all-natural yogurt filling of various flavors). Accommodations are thoughtfully designed with pets in mind - spacious enough for four-legged friends to stretch out and relax in comfort while their owners soak in mountain or city views. Whether its your pups first stay or fifteenth, Fairmont ensures that every furry guest feel right at home. Paw-sitively Perfect Dog Walking Services Whether youre hitting the slopes, heading to the spa, or exploring the city, Fairmont makes sure your pet is well cared for while youre away. At Fairmont Waterfront, dog walking services can be arranged upon request through trusted local partners - perfect for giving pets a break while you take one too. In Seattle, Fairmont Olympic offers dog walking as part of its curated Canine Club experience, making it easy to explore knowing your companion is in good hands. Explore Together with Dog-Friendly City Guides At both F airmont Hotel Vancouver, Fairmont Waterfront and Fairmont Banff Springs, the concierge offers curated travel guides for dog-loving travelers - highlighting scenic local parks, dog-friendly patios, and nearby trails for morning walks or sunset strolls. These guides help turn every outing into a canine-friendly adventure. Capture the Moment with Custom Pet Portraits Commemorate your dogs luxurious stay with a one-of-a-kind keepsake at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. The hotel partners with a local artist to offer custom pet portraits that capture your pups personality. Whether its a painted masterpiece or illustrated print, this is the perfect way to remember your dogs Sonoma escape. #FAIRMONTLOVESDOGS Fairmont is proud to celebrate International Dog Day across its global portfolio. Guests are encouraged to share their Canine Ambassador meet-and-greets and pet travel stories using the hashtag #FairmontLovesDogs. About Accor, a world-leading hospitality group Accor is a world-leading hospitality group offering stays and experiences across more than 110 countries with over 5,600 hotels and resorts, 10,000 bars & restaurants, wellness facilities and flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry's most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing around 45 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore. ALL, the booking platform and loyalty program embodies the Accor promise during and beyond the hotel stay and gives its members access to unique experiences. Accor is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity, and inclusivity. Accor's mission is reflected in the Group's purpose: Pioneering the art of responsible hospitality, connecting cultures, with heartfelt care. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France. Included in the CAC 40 index, the Group is publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information, please visit group.accor.com or follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok. Travel and Tourism Sector Raises Concern over Proposed ETIAS Fee Increase HOTREC has joined a coalition of leading European travel and tourism associations to express serious concern over the European Commissions recent proposal to increase the ETIAS travel authorisation fee from 7 to 20 per application. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), set to become operational in late 2026, will require visa-exempt non-EU travellers to obtain an online travel authorisation before entering the Schengen Area. While the system aims to strengthen security and streamline border management, the proposed fee increase, nearly triple the original amount agreed by co-legislators in 2018, has prompted widespread concern from across the industry. Europes hospitality sector fully supports the objective of secure and efficient borders. However, the proposed tripling of the ETIAS fee raises serious concerns about proportionality and transparency. We urge the European Parliament and the Council to reject the proposal and demand evidence-based justification. Any surplus revenue should be reinvested into strengthening the tourism ecosystem. Marie Audren, Director General of HOTREC The industry coalition is calling for: An impact assessment from the European Commission justifying the proposed fee and explaining whether alternative pricing models (e.g. 10 or 12) were considered The Council and European Parliament to reject the 20 proposal in favour of a more proportionate, evidence-based fee Any surplus ETIAS revenue to be earmarked for tourism infrastructure, staff training, and sustainability initiatives under the next EU budget The travel and tourism sector contributes significantly to Europes economy, supporting millions of jobs and generating vital export revenue. As Europe seeks to remain a competitive and welcoming destination for international travellers, HOTREC believes that any new administrative burden must be carefully weighed against its impact on travellers and the industry at large. AHLA Foundation Raises +$1,000,000 at Annual Gala - Image Credit AHLA In solidarity with the Los Angeles community, AHLA and AHLA Foundation will match donations to Red Cross and LA Fire Department Foundation on behalf of hotel industry AHLA Foundation raised more than $1,000,000 at its annual Night of a Thousand Stars fundraising gala last night, bringing together more than 400 industry leaders at the Beverly Hilton to celebrate excellence in hospitality. Proceeds of the gala will support workforce development initiatives for hotel industry employees. The event took on special significance this year as the industry demonstrated its commitment to the recovery and resilience of Los Angeles in the wake of recent wildfires with donations to the Red Cross and LA Fire Department Foundation. AHLA and the AHLA Foundation pledged $10,000 to support disaster relief efforts and will match up to $25,000 donated by AHLA members. Each year, Night of a Thousand Stars recognizes outstanding achievements across the industry with five prestigious awards to recognize hospitality professionals under 30 years old; hospitality student excellence; women creating paths for other women in the industry to succeed; and the lodging employee of the year. Night of a Thousand Stars is a shining tribute to the exceptional talent that drives hospitality forward, while fueling a stronger future for our industry, said Anna Blue, President of the AHLA Foundation. Through the Foundations transformative workforce development programs, we are not just opening doors but creating pathways for individuals to build meaningful, life-changing careers in this extraordinary industry. One of the things Ive always loved about this industry is the way it loves its people. Night of a Thousand Stars is an opportunity for our industry to celebrate the incredible people who make hospitality all it is, said Rosanna Maietta, President and CEO of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA). Their stories are so powerful. They are the heart of our industry and the reason the work the AHLA Foundation does is so important to advancing the careers of so many. AHLAs 2025 Stars of the Industry winners: North Star: Lodging Employee of the Year Award Melvin De La Cruz, Assistant to Director of HR, The Park Vista a DoubleTree by Hilton AHLA Foundation ForWard: Paving the Way Award Whitney Bergmann, General Manager, Best Western Plus Grant Creek Inn Stevan Porter Emerging Hospitality Leader of the Year Award Nicole Harker, Front Office Manager, Amara Resort & Spa Hotel Hero Jessica Dunnihoo, Executive Housekeeper, Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center AHLA Foundation Scholar of the Year Award Devin Grady, Student, Anne Arundel Community College and Accountant, Gaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center The events success was made possible through the generous support of presenting sponsors Encore, Guest Supply, Hilton, Hilton Supply Management and contributions from hospitality leaders and professionals across the industry. Giving at the gala was initiated by a $100,000 donation from Jon Bortz, President and CEO of Pebblebrook Hotel Trust, and his wife Ellen Bortz. For more information about the AHLA Foundation and its initiatives, visit www.ahlafoundation.org. To donate to organizations providing emergency assistance in Los Angeles, visit https://www.ahla.com/relief. Joon Aun OOI, President of Asia Pacific, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (third from right), and Girish Jhunjhnuwala, Founder & CEO of Ovolo Group (third from left), celebrate the signing of a new partnership between Wyndham and Ovolo. - Image Credit Wyndham Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Ovolo Group have entered into a partnership to integrate five Ovolo hotels in Australia and Hong Kong into the Wyndham brand portfolio. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Ovolo Group have announced a strategic partnership that will see five Ovolo hotels in Australia and Hong Kong join the Wyndham brand. The partnership aims to leverage Ovolo's boutique hotel offerings and Wyndham's global network to expand their presence in the Asia Pacific region. The agreement involves the integration of five existing Ovolo hotels, totaling over 450 rooms, into Wyndham's global portfolio. The hotels are located in Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, and Hong Kong. The transition is expected to be completed later this fall. These properties will be incorporated into Wyndham's sales, marketing, and distribution platforms, enhancing their commercial opportunities. The hotels will also participate in the Wyndham Rewards loyalty program, which has approximately 120 million members. This inclusion is expected to increase the visibility and accessibility of Ovolo's offerings to a broader audience. The five hotels joining Wyndham's portfolio are: Ovolo Central, a Wyndham Hotel Located in Hong Kong's central district, this 41-room hotel is near key nightlife and dining areas. Ovolo Nishi, a Wyndham Hotel Situated in Canberra's central business district, this hotel features 85 rooms known for their unique design and art installations. Ovolo South Yarra, a Wyndham Hotel Located in Melbourne's South Yarra neighborhood, this 123-room hotel combines modern amenities with a 1970s aesthetic. Ovolo The Valley, a Wyndham Hotel Found in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley, this 103-room hotel is recognized for its artistic design and proximity to cultural venues. Ovolo Woolloomooloo, a Wyndham Hotel Positioned on Sydney's Finger Wharf, this 100-room hotel offers waterfront views and access to major city attractions. The partnership does not involve changes in the ownership or management of the Ovolo brand, which will continue to operate independently while benefiting from Wyndham's resources and global reach. Why Hotels Are Regaining Ground Over Short-Term Rentals - Image Credit DerbySoft Business-led travel, generational shifts, evolving guest expectations, and smarter distribution are reshaping the competitive landscape Short-term rentals (STRs) gained rapid traction during the pandemic, offering travelers an alternative to traditional hospitality. But as global travel normalizes and trip purposes become more complex, hotels are reasserting their roleparticularly in urban markets and business-led segments. This shift isnt just anecdotal. According to the AHLA, In New York City, STR demand dropped by more than 50% over the 12 months ending November 2024, equating to 1.8 million fewer nights sold. Over that same period, hotel demand rose by 1.2 million nights. While globally, STR demand still grewfrom 14.6% of total lodging demand in 2023 to 15.4% in 2024 this growth has not been evenly distributed. In high-demand cities, and among travelers blending business and leisure, hotels are gaining renewed traction. This doesnt indicate that STRs are in declineit highlights where purpose-driven travel is reshaping demand, and where traditional hotel infrastructure is better equipped to meet it. And as guest expectations evolve and the purpose of travel becomes more complex, the limitations of many STRs are becoming more visible. Why Travelers Are Returning to Hotels The resurgence of hotel preference is not based solely on price or loyalty. Its rooted in consistency, service infrastructure, and integration with business travel tools. These factors matter more when trips involve multiple stakeholders, mixed purposes, or unpredictable schedules. Over 54% of business travelers in 2024 took at least two bleisure tripsblending business and leisure in a single journey. Marriott reports that business stays are now 20% longer on average than pre-pandemic, and 82% of bleisure travelers extend their stay at the same hotel used for work. Meetings and events are a key driver: 67% of bleisure trips originate from conferences, and 30% from internal team gatherings. Hotels are uniquely positioned to accommodate these travelersnot only with meeting space, but with professional-grade amenities, food and beverage outlets, co-working areas, and spas. Additionally, hotel operators are expanding their flexibility models. Many now accommodate day-use bookings, providing short-stay options for travelers needing a place to rest, work, or recharge between flights or meetings. These offerings allow hotels to monetize inventory that might otherwise sit empty during off-peak hours, while catering to a growing segment of same-day demandsomething most short-term rental hosts are unable to support operationally. Distribution and Technology: The Opportunity for STRs The STR category is still expanding, but cracks are emerging beneath the surface. According to recent studies, 53% of non-profit-oriented hosts report that its harder to operate than it was a year ago. For Competition has intensified, and without a technology strategy, many are struggling to keep pace. The STR ecosystem lacks deep connectivity with corporate travel platforms, loyalty programs, or multi-channel booking infrastructure. The Phocuswright B2B Technology and Distribution Landscape notes fragmentation in tech adoption and scalabilityareas where hotels already have mature capabilities. But this is also where tech providers like DerbySoft can create value across the ecosystem. Whether it's helping STRs gain exposure to business travel demand, optimizing content for multiple booking platforms, or enabling smarter rate management, the right distribution strategy can unlock untapped potential in both lodging models. Generation Drives Preference, Not Just Price Generational trends also point to divergent expectations. Millennials are the most active bleisure segment, with 90% reporting they combine business and leisure on trips). Gen Z travelers are highly mobile and unpredictable: 74% bring guests on business trips, and 1 in 5 dont disclose it to their employer). Meanwhile, Gen X and Boomers continue to favor hotels for convenience and reliabilityespecially for trips involving meetings or structured itineraries. Hotels have built their platforms to accommodate this diversity in traveler needs. STRs can expand their reach if they adopt similar capabilitiesespecially around content distribution, standardized policies, and pricing consistency. As preferences evolve, the ability to provide flexible, bookable inventory across both short and extended stays becomes a strategic differentiator. What This Means for Hotels, Travel Platforms, and Distribution The recalibration between hotels and STRs isnt a zero-sum game. Both play essential roles in the global lodging landscape. But to thrive in a multi-modal future, success will depend on delivering inventory that is accessible, flexible, and aligned with traveler intent. For hotel brands, STR operators, travel platforms, and tech providers, the priority should be: Making flexible inventory bookable and visiblewhether its a hotel day rate or a professionally managed apartment Unifying distribution strategies to serve both business and leisure segments Delivering rich, consistent content that resonates across generational lines STRs are not going away. In fact, with the right tools and distribution connectivity, they are positioned to serve demand that hotels cant always fulfill. But when trips are tied to purposemeetings, connection, convenience, or corporate policyhotels are continuing to demonstrate their strength. In the end, its not about hotels versus STRs. Its about creating a smarter, more connected lodging ecosystem where all types of inventory can thriveenabled by the technology that brings them closer to the traveler. About the Author Duane Overgaard is the Divisional CEO, Hospitality, of DerbySoft. With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he has a diverse skill set that includes account management, business development, and contract negotiation. Duane has held various leadership positions at renowned companies such as Sabre Corporation, Wyndham International, and Hilton Hotels & Resorts, where he has demonstrated expertise in hotel management and marketing strategy. He is known for his strong team-building and competitive analysis skills. Duane is currently based in the Dallas area of the United States. China strongly opposes European lawmakers' visit to Taiwan region: Chinese mission to EU Xinhua) 14:20, July 29, 2025 BRUSSELS, July 28 (Xinhua) -- A spokesperson from the Chinese Mission to the European Union (EU) on Monday expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to a recent visit to China's Taiwan region by certain members of the European Parliament, stressing that the move seriously violates the one-China principle and blatantly interferes in China's internal affairs. The spokesperson said that China has lodged solemn representations with the European side over the matter. "The Taiwan question concerns China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and lies at the core of China's core interests," the spokesperson said, adding that the one-China principle is a basic norm in international relations universally recognized by the international community. It also serves as the political foundation for the establishment and development of China-EU relations and represents a red line that must not be crossed. "The Taiwan question is purely China's internal affair and brooks no external interference," the spokesperson said. China firmly opposes any form of official interaction between the European Parliament and the Taiwan authorities, the spokesperson noted, urging the European Parliament, as a core institution of the EU, to honor the bloc's political commitment to China. The spokesperson called on the European side to immediately correct its wrongdoings, refrain from sending any wrong signal to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, so as to earnestly implement the one-China principle and effectively uphold the political foundation of China-EU relations. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Quality Regent Hotel Rockhampton Sold in Queensland, Australia Weekly Hotel Industry Asia Pacific News Roundup from HVS Aware Super Becomes Majority Shareholder of Aparthotel Owner-Operator The July Australia-based Aware Super Pty Ltd (Aware Super), one of Australias largest superannuation funds, has become the majority owner of The Netherlands-based aparthotel owner-operator The July B.V. (The July). Building on its initial investment made in July 2020, Aware Super has now acquired the 47.7% stake previously held by the Dutch pension fund asset manager APG Asset Management N.V. (APG), bringing its total ownership to over 99%. Managing more than AUD188 billion in assets, Aware Supers investment in The July aligns with its broader commitment to deploy GBP5.25 billion into real estate, infrastructure, and private equity opportunities across the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. The July currently operates three aparthotels in Amsterdam and one in London, with three additional properties in the pipelineset to open in Amsterdam, Lisbon, and Dublin between late 2026 and 2027. Wing Tai Properties and CSI Properties to Develop a Mixed-Use Development in Hong Kong Wing Tai Properties Limited (Wing Tai Properties), a subsidiary of Singapore-based Wing Tai Holdings Limited (Wing Tai Group), has announced a joint venture with Hong Kong-based CSI Properties Limited (CSI Properties) to develop Central Crossing, a mixed-use project in Hong Kongs Central district with a total gross floor area of approximately 40,227 square metres (sqm). The project comprises twin towers: a luxury hotel tower, and an adjoining 28-storey Grade A office building with each standard floor spanning over 990 sqm. It will also integrate a bespoke lifestyle hub, green open spaces and heritage preservation features. The hotel will be managed by an international luxury operator, though the brand has yet to be announced. Located at 118 Wellington Street, the development will be linked to key transport hubs via Central's elevated walkway system and will be closely connected to the Airport Express MTR station. The project is slated for completion in mid-2026. The site was sold to the joint venture in 2017 for a reported price of HKD11.6 billion, translating to HKD4.3 million per sqm for the 2,685 sqm site. Serviced Apartment Development Site in Central Adelaide Acquired for AUD7.48 Million in Australia Australia-based family-owned developer, AA Advancements Pty Ltd (AA Advancements), has acquired the former Kings Head Hotel site in Adelaide from the Mortgagee in Possession for AUD7.48 million. The site had remained dormant since its last recorded transaction in 2022 at AUD3.25 million. Located at the corner of King William Street and Sturt Street, the 780-square-metre site sits adjacent to the City South tram stop and is in close proximity to the Adelaide Central Market, Victoria Square, and Chinatown Adelaide. The property has an existing development permit granted by the State Commission Assessment Panel (SCAP) for a 16-storey serviced apartment tower. Approved plans include ground-floor retail, first-floor function space, and 118 serviced apartment keyscomprising 117 suites and a penthouse unit. Quality Regent Hotel Rockhampton Sold in Queensland, Australia The freehold Quality Regent Hotel Rockhampton has been sold for an undisclosed amount in Queensland, Australia. The hotel is currently leased to a single tenant, with 12 months remaining on the existing agreement. The transaction reportedly achieved a notably high price per-key and yield, highlighting strong investor appetite for stable, income-producing assets in Queensland. Located near Rockhamptons central business district and the Fitzroy River promenade, the two-storey property features 49 guest rooms, an on-site bistro and cocktail bar, an outdoor pool, and conference facilities for up to 100 guests. The heritage-listed hotel was a redevelopment of an existing building that was completed in 2016. Limited new hotel supply in regional Queensland over the past decade has supported record-high occupancy rates and average daily rates. This transaction reflects sustained investor confidence in regional Queenslands accommodation sector ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. Samosir Regency Launches 22 km Lake Toba Beach Corridor Initiative, Indonesia Samosir Regency unveiled a strategic plan to develop a continuous 22 kilometres beachfront from Tano Ponggol to Simanido Port on Samosir Island, aligning with Indonesias New Balis super-priority initiative and supporting the Toba Caldera Geoparks UNESCO re-certification. The project aims to diversify tourism offerings through water- and land-based activities, bolster year-round visitation, and strengthen local economic growth. Multi-level collaboration with provincial and central authorities will expedite planning, land acquisition, and regulatory compliance. Strict environmental protocols and Batak heritage preservation measures are embedded in the design to safeguard Lake Tobas geological and cultural assets. Stakeholders, including the Lake Toba Authority, will focus on integrated infrastructure, facility maintenance, and aligning investment strategies to ensure the corridor delivers sustainable, long-term benefits to Samosirs hospitality, food and beverage, transport, and water-sports sectors. HVS is the world's leading consulting and valuation services organization focused on the hotel, restaurant, shared ownership, gaming, and leisure industries. Established in 1980, the company performs more than 4,500 assignments per year for virtually every major industry participant. HVS principals are regarded as the leading professionals in their respective regions of the globe. Through a worldwide network of over 50 offices staffed by 300 experienced industry professionals, HVS provides an unparalleled range of complementary services for the hospitality industry. For further information regarding our expertise and specifics about our services, please visit www.hvs.com. Hyatt to Open Hyatt Centric Anjuna Goa Hotel in 2027 Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced plans to open the Hyatt Centric Anjuna Goa in early 2027, expanding its presence in India's leisure market. Hyatt Hotels Corporation has revealed plans for a new hotel, Hyatt Centric Anjuna Goa, set to open in early 2027. The hotel will be located in North Goa's Anjuna neighborhood, a popular destination known for its beaches and nightlife. The property is under construction and will be managed by Nile Hospitality. The hotel will feature 150 rooms, including standard king and twin guestrooms and suites. It will offer two restaurants, a deli, a bar, and outdoor dining areas. Additionally, the hotel will include flexible meeting and event spaces. The property aims to serve both business and leisure travelers. Hyatt Centric Anjuna Goa is owned by Deventure Hotel and Resorts Private Limited. This development is part of Hyatt's strategy to expand its portfolio in India, particularly in key leisure destinations. The new hotel will join the existing eight Hyatt Centric properties across the country. The hotel is positioned to cater to travelers seeking local experiences, with its location providing easy access to various attractions in Goa. The collaboration with Deventure Hotel and Resorts and the management by Nile Hospitality is expected to contribute to the hotel's success in the region. MGRS Records To Be Destroyed on Aug. 22 WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. In accordance with state regulations, all temporary cumulative school and health records for students who have graduated from or left Mount Greylock Regional School during the 2017-2018 school year will be destroyed on Friday, Aug. 22, 2025. State regulations require that student records be destroyed seven years after the student graduates. However, the high school transcript that includes the grades for the four years of high school is maintained for 60 years following graduation. Any student who is interested in retrieving their records before destruction should contact the Counseling Office at (413)458-9582 ext.1250. Students who received services from the Special Education Department (Pupil Personnel Services) should contact the Special Education (Pupil Personnel) office at 413-458-9582 ext. 2050 for an appointment to pick up any other records. Please note that parents cannot request their student's records without a signed letter granting permission. Otherwise, the student can only request their records in writing or in person. SteepleCats Fall to Keene at Home NORTH ADAMS, Mass. -- Marshall Lipsey went 3-for-6 with a double and three RBIs Monday to lead the Keene, N.H., Swamp Bats to an 11-4 win over the SteepleCats in the New England Collegiate Baseball League. Collin Overholt was 3-for-5 with a double for North Adams, which got a single from Taconic graduate Nick Guachione. The SteepleCats (19-22) head to Lynn on Tuesday for a double-header against the North Shore Navigators. The residents of 150 Torrey Woods Road are asking Williamstown's Select Board to push back on National Grid's proposal to place five new utility poles, including one in the front yard of their historic home. The red dots show where the poles will criss-cross the street to get to a new home at 88 Torrey Woods Road. PreviousNext National Grid Pole Plan Sparks Discussion at Williamstown Select Board WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. A Torrey Woods Road family is asking National Grid to rework its plan to place five utility poles, one of which is slated for the town right-of-way in front of their 18th-century home. Kristy Lyn Edmunds and Roslyn Kim Warby were in front of the Select Board on Monday to challenge the utility's plan, which would put three new poles on the north side of Torrey Woods Road and two on the south side of the road to extend service about 530 feet to serve a new residence planned for 88 Torrey Woods Road. Edmunds and Warby questioned why one of the poles had to be placed in their front yard, only to have the planned line immediately cross the road to the south side for two poles and come back across to the north side, where the new home is planned. National Grid's Michael Tatro told the board that he and an arborist working for the utility met with Warby at the site and tried to find another solution. "We're trying to minimize the number of trees cut [to make room for the poles] and keep it to the dead ones that have to be cut anyway," Tatro said via Zoom. "But it is a tough location." Edmunds told the Select Board that it was being asked to make a decision with too little information. "What we don't have is an alternative strategy that might work with a report from the arborist on how many trees across the way would have to be taken down," Edmunds said. "It seems like there are alternative strategies It just might be more labor intensive or, perhaps, costly." Edmunds repeatedly mentioned that the couple's home dates to 1761 and that the historic dwelling sits close to the road and would be close to any pole erected at the site. In answer to a question from a resident who spoke at the public hearing, Tatro said at one point that locating all the poles on the south side of Torrey Woods Road would necessitate taking down "another 20 trees." "Off the top of my head, this is the best option we could come up with," Tatro said. "We tried to work with the owner to pick a spot in the bushes in front of the house [at 150 Torrey Woods Road] to make it the least obstructive we could. "Putting it on the other side of the road would add environmental cost and, probably, another $20,000 for this customer." Likewise, Tatro said, burying the lines in the right-of-way, while possible, would add cost and would not save any trees, since the trenching to run the line would tear up trees' roots. Susan Hoellrich, also speaking from the floor of the public hearing, offered another alternative: burying the lines on the Edmunds/Warby property, through their back yard to their new neighbors' lot. Tatro said that was a possibility, but it would involve the creation of easements on the land at 150 Torrey Woods. The Select Board encouraged all three parties National Grid, Edmunds/Warby and the owners of 88 Torrey Woods (listed as Cambridge's Anddie Chan-Patera and Anthony Patera on the town's property database) to work out an agreement that works for them. Peter Beck noted that any alternatives that included the cutting of more trees on the south side of Torrey Woods Road should also include the owner of the wooded parcel across from the Edmunds/Warby house. As a matter of course, owners James and Jane Heekin, along with other abutters, were notified of Monday's public hearing but the diagram submitted to the Select Board in support of National Grid's application may now be out of date. The public hearing on the pole location was continued to the Select Board's Aug. 11 meeting. Two other items discussed on Monday night likely will show up on that Aug. 11 agenda. The Select Board is hoping to schedule its annual tax classification hearing for its only planned August meeting. On Monday, it heard a proposal from Beck to modify language in the town's means-tested senior property tax exemption for the coming tax year. Town meeting in 2024 OK'd a home rule petition to establish a local program that mirrors the commonwealth's Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit. In simple terms, the local program redistributes a small portion of the town's property tax levy away from seniors who meet the Massachusetts income and asset guidelines under the circuit-breaker program. The town still raises the same amount of money through property taxes, but a little more is taken from homeowners who are in a better position to pay. For the most recent fiscal year, the Select Board capped the total dollars that could be redistributed at $100,000 (0.5 percent of the $20 million levy). Last year , Stephanie Boyd pointed out a potential glitch that other municipalities had seen in implementing similar local options tied to the Circuit Breaker program: a local match for the resident in Year 1 could diminish the tax break the resident receives from the commonwealth in Year 2, creating a "seesaw" effect that makes the resident's taxes more complicated from year to year while increasing the municipality's share of the tax break every other year. Beck said he wanted to modify the program so, "We weren't putting the town and the applicant at a disadvantage, where we're giving them a dollar [in tax relief] that then gets taken away [from their state tax credit] the next year." The solution he proposed is that the town exemption and a property owner's previous year's credit could not exceed the maximum amount of tax relief for which a resident is eligible under the state program (the difference between a homeowner's property tax bill and 10 percent of their total annual income). His colleagues were generally supportive of the modification, but they made no decisions on Monday. Instead, they agreed to consider the proposal and bring it back at the August meeting. The board did take some action on proposals from the board's diversity advisory committee, which is seeking modifications to its charge. The most noticeable change is in the name of the committee, which now will be called the Race, Equity, Accessibility, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee and go by the acronym READI. The panel's former name, the Diversity, Inclusion and Racial Equity Advisory Committee had led to it being known as the DIRE Committee. "We want to make it more holistic and make the name more positive," said Select Board member Shana Dixon, who also serves on the READI Committee. "We understand at that point [2020], it was a dire necessity to have it in town. Now we want to make it something more positive." The Select Board also approved the now READI Committee's requests to reduce its membership from seven to five in order to make it easier to have quorums at meetings and to reduce its meeting schedule from twice a month to once a month with the option to meet more frequently if the committee desires. Select Board members had questions about the READI Committee's recommendations for its charge, including a concern that READI, which is a creation of the Select Board, stick to matters under the board's purview. Boyd mentioned specifically an item in the proposed charge that would have READI look at, "Inclusion and belonging in schools." Boyd noted that the town has no direct control over the operation of the regional school district, a distinct municipal entity. Monday's conversation included the suggestion that, perhaps, READI would be better served as an independent entity whether inside or outside town government instead of as a strictly "advisory" body created by the Select Board. It was suggested at one point that READI's existence could be codified in the town code through an act of town meeting or the current READI membership could go in an entirely different direction, creating an independent body outside of town government, similar to the COOL Committee, an environmental task force that has partnered with the town but which has no direct town oversight. Dixon said Monday she would take those questions back to the READI Committee for consideration at its meeting on Aug. 4. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Torrential rains have killed at least 30 people in Beijing and caused widespread damage in the Chinese capitals mountainous northern region. Beijing has received almost a years rainfall in a matter of days, prompting authorities to evacuate about 80,000 people from their homes. The unrelenting monsoon rains have damaged roads and communication infrastructure and cut off power to 136 villages as of Monday midnight. Deaths have so far been reported from Beijing's mountainous northern districts, with 28 in Miyun and two in Yanqing. Heavy rain started last Wednesday and intensified around Beijing and surrounding provinces on Monday, with the city getting up to 543.4mm rainfall in its northern districts, Xinhua news agency reported. The average annual rainfall in Beijing is around 600mm. The most intense rain occurred on Saturday in the capital hilly Huairou area, which saw 95.3mm of rainfall in one hour. open image in gallery An aerial view shows a flooded public exercise centre after heavy rains at Taishitun village in Miyun district ( AFP/Getty ) The Beijing Meteorological Service has issued a yellow rainstorm alert for the Chinese capital city on Tuesday, down from the highest level of red on Monday. The downpour is forecast to continue until Tuesday night with hourly precipitation in some areas exceeding 50mm, Global Times reported. The weather department has asked the public to take precautions due to a heightened risk of secondary disasters such as flash floods, mudslides, and landslides in mountainous and hilly areas. The rains have seen over 730 million cubic meters of water flow into the Miyun reservoir, the largest in China's north, as of Tuesday morning, with 120 million cubic meters discharged since Sunday afternoon. Authorities in Beijing are urging residents to keep clear of downstream rivers as water levels are expected to remain high. open image in gallery People ride on a front loader to cross a flooded street after heavy rains at Taishitun village in Miyun district on the outskirts of Beijing on 28 July 2025 ( AFP/Getty ) The government has allocated 200m yuan (21m) for post-disaster recovery efforts, state media said. The funds will mainly be used to repair damaged transportation, water, medical and other infrastructure and public service facilities in Miyun and Huairou. Footage shared by state media showed helicopters carrying aid supplies taking off from the Miyun Mujiayu airport on Monday. Chinese president Xi Jinping said there had been "heavy casualties and property losses" in Beijing and the provinces of Hebei, Jilin and Shandong, and ordered "all-out" search and rescue efforts. "No effort should be spared to search for and rescue those missing or trapped, to transfer and resettle residents in affected areas, and to reduce casualties to the greatest extent possible," Mr Xi said. Premier Li Qiang also said heavy rain and flooding in Beijing's Miyun district had caused "significant casualties", Xinhua reported. open image in gallery A resident walks on the debris in the aftermath of flooding from heavy rains at Taishitun village in Miyun district ( AFP/Getty ) Northern China has witnessed record-breaking rainfall in recent years, exposing densely populated cities, including Beijing, to flood risks. Some climate scientists link the higher rainfall in China's usually arid north to global warming. Last week, two people died and 10 went missing after half a year's worth of rain fell in just five hours in the eastern province of Shandong. Extreme weather has caused over 307 deaths or disappearances across the country in the first half of 2025 and resulted in economic losses exceeding $7.6bn, Reuters reported. Beijing recorded its heaviest rainfall in 140 years in 2023 when the brunt of the destruction unfolded in neighbouring Hebei province. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice China will offer parents an annual childcare subsidy of 3,600 yuan (376) in an effort to arrest the countrys declining birth rate. The scheme, announced on Monday, will cover all children under three. It will apply retroactively from 1 January 2025, but families with children born between 2022 and 2024 can also apply for partial subsidies, Xinhua news agency reported. According to the National Health Commission, the nationwide subsidy is expected to benefit nearly 20 million families. The subsidies will not be treated as taxable income or counted when determining eligibility for poverty assistance. The National Bureau of Statistics reported earlier this year that Chinas population had fallen for the third consecutive year in 2024. It had declined by 1.39 million to 1.408 billion as deaths continued to surpass births. In 2023, the population had fallen by 2.08 million. The fall was double that of the previous year, which marked the first population drop in 60 years. Chinas birth rate has been declining for decades, driven by the one-child policy of population control, implemented from 1980 to 2015, and rapid urbanisation. The policy has also resulted in a skewed sex ratio due to a cultural preference for male children. Marriages have also witnessed a decline, with 6.1 million marriage registrations nationwide in 2024 compared to 7.7 million the previous year. ( AFP/Getty ) The subsidy scheme follows regional experiments with childcare incentives in over 20 provinces. Inner Mongolias capital city of Hohhot introduced a policy in March for parents to get up to 10,000 yuan (1,045) in annual subsidies until the third child turned 10, along with daily free milk for new mothers and an electronic voucher worth 3,000 yuan (313) for dairy products. In cities like Shenyang or Changchun, subsidies range from 1,800 to 3,600 yuan (188-376) per child. Some regions offer oneoff birth bonuses as well. Although the subsidies dont cover all childcare costs, they help with essentials like baby formula and diapers, easing the financial burden, a woman named Ma Ying, from Guyuan in Ningxia, told the Xinhua news agency. Critics, however, say that declining fertility rates are not just an issue of finances. The high cost of childcare and education, job uncertainty and a slowing economy are discouraging young Chinese men and women from marrying and starting families, demographers argue. They also point to gender discrimination and traditional expectations for women to manage the household as contributing factors to the declining birthrate. Without sustained structural investment in areas like affordable childcare, parental leave, and job protections for women, the effect on fertility is likely to remain minimal, demographer Emma Zang, a professor at Yale University, told Reuters. To promote a more fertility-friendly society, the southwestern province of Sichuan has proposed extending marriage leave from five to 25 days and increasing maternity leave from 60 days to 150 days. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has dismissed the United States stated intent to resume diplomacy on denuclearisation, urging Washington to accept her country as a nuclear weapons state. Kim Yo Jong insisted a new approach is needed to restart talks, suggesting Pyongyang would only return to the negotiating table if the US offers rewards for a partial surrender of its nuclear capability. This firm stance comes as some experts believe US President Donald Trump could still seek a diplomatic achievement with North Korea. Mr Trump has recently spoken of his personal ties with Kim Jong Un and expressed hopes of reigniting nuclear diplomacy between them. Their high-stakes discussions in 2018-19, which occurred during Mr Trump's first term, collapsed after he rejected Mr Kims demands for extensive sanctions relief in exchange for dismantling his main nuclear complex, a limited denuclearisation step. Mr Kim has since executed weapons tests to modernise and expand his nuclear arsenal. Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un In a statement carried by state media, Kim Yo Jong said the personal relationship between her brother and Trump is not bad. But she said if their personal relations are to serve the purpose of North Koreas denuclearisation, North Korea would view it as nothing but a mockery. She said North Korea's nuclear capability has sharply increased since the first round of the Kim-Trump diplomacy and that any attempt to deny North Korea as a nuclear weapons state would be rejected. If the US fails to accept the changed reality and persists in the failed past, the DPRK-US meeting will remain as a hope of the US side, Kim Yo Jong said, referring to her country by its official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. She said it would be advisable to seek another way of contact". Kim Yo Jong is a key official on the Central Committee of the Norths ruling Workers Party. She handles the countrys relations with South Korea and the United States, and South Korean officials and experts believe she is the Norths second-most powerful person after her brother. Kim Yo Jong said she was responding to reported comments by a US official that Trump is open to talks on denuclearisation. She likely was referring to a Saturday article by Yonhap news agency that cited an unidentified White House official as saying Trump remains open to engaging with Leader Kim to achieve a fully denuclearised North Korea. North Korea wants to say it's not interested in talks on denuclearisation and the US must determine what benefits it can give to the North first, said Nam Sung-wook, a former head of the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank run by South Koreas spy agency. Mr Nam said Mr Trump's likely desire to win a Nobel Peace Prize would prompt him to seek talks with Kim Jong Un and give him corresponding benefits for taking phased denuclearisation steps. Mr Nam said North Korea would want broad sanctions relief, a suspension of US-South Korea military drills that it regards as invasion rehearsals and other economic incentives. Kim Yeol Soo, an analyst at South Koreas Korea Institute for Military Affairs, said US and North Korean officials could meet if they narrow some differences on terms for restoring talks. But he said Mr Trump's unpredictability would make it extremely difficult to predict what concessions the Americans would offer. Other experts have earlier said that North Korea now preoccupied with its expanding cooperation with Russia sees no urgent need to resume diplomacy with the US and South Korea. On Monday, Kim Yo Jong rebuffed overtures by South Koreas new liberal government, saying its blind trust in the countrys alliance with the US and hostility toward North Korea make it no different from its conservative predecessor. Nam said prospects for an early resumption of US-North Korea diplomacy would depend on whether the Russia-Ukraine war ends soon and U.S. tariff negotiations with other countries are proceeded in a direction that Trump wants. Mr Kim said Mr Trump may use his likely attendance of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea this autumn as a chance to travel on to North Korea or a Korean border village to meet Kim Jong Un. Kim Yo Jong on Monday described as a daydream a reported South Korean idea of inviting her brother to the regional summit. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice An infant in the northern Indian state of Bihar reportedly bit a cobra to death after it coiled around his hands. The one-year-old boy, identified only by his first name Govinda, bit the cobra while he was playing at his home in the small town of Bettiah near the Indo-Nepal border, according to local news reports. "When we saw the snake in the childs hand, everyone rushed towards him, but in the meantime, he already bit the snake, killing it on the spot," the childs grandmother told local news. After biting the snake, the boy fainted and was rushed to a primary health care centre for initial treatment, after which he was taken to the towns Government Medical College Hospital (GMCH). The boy, Govind Kumar, was referred here yesterday by the primary health centre close to his village where he was rushed by family members after he fainted soon after chewing on the live snake, hospital superintendent Duvakant Mishra told Indian Express. The venoms effects were reportedly mild, only knocking the boy unconscious, but not fatal. "Timely treatment saved Govinda's life," Saurabh Kumar, a doctor of the government hospital, told the Times of India. "The child's condition is currently stable and treatment is being administered under the supervision of doctors. The medical team is treating the child, providing continuous medication, and he is under observation, Dr Kumar said. Govinda reportedly is being closely monitored at GMCH Bettiah with treatment for poisoning expected to start if he started showing any symptoms, according to local news reports. Cobra is displayed at the Irula snake-catchers cooperative on the outskirts of Chennai ( AFP via Getty Images ) India has around 300 species of snakes, including 60 highly venomous snakes such as the Russells vipers, kraits, and the saw-scaled viper, which are responsible for most of the bite-related deaths. The Indian cobra completes this list of the "big four" species responsible for the most snakebites in India. The country recorded over a million snake bite deaths in just two decades from 2000-19, according to a study published in 2020 in the journal eLife. More than two-thirds of the recorded deaths came from eight of Indias 28 states, including Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Uttar Pradesh. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A young IT professional was murdered in a suspected caste-motivated honour killing in India on Sunday evening. Kavin Selva Ganesh, 27, was allegedly hacked to death by his partners brother in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, local media reported. Ganesh had visited his partner, identified by police as Subhashini, at her traditional medicine clinic in Tirunelveli town to consult about his grandfathers health. Subhashinis brother, S Surjit, allegedly lured him outside and on to a secluded stretch around 200 metres from the clinic, and attacked him with a sickle. He threw chilli powder on Kavins face after which he started running, the victims mother, S Tamilselvi, said in her complaint to police, according to Deccan Herald. But Surjith chased him and hacked him to death. Ganesh, who worked for the multinational IT company Tata Consultancy Services in the state capital of Chennai, belonged to the Devendra Kula Vellalar community, a historically marginalised group under the rigid Hindu caste system. The community is listed among the Scheduled Castes in the Indian governments classification. Subhashini is from the Maravar community, a socially dominant caste in Tamil Nadu that falls under the Most Backward Classes category, denoting a higher status in the caste hierarchy than Scheduled Castes. Although both groups are officially considered socially and economically disadvantaged, the Maravar community holds more local influence and status. open image in gallery Representational ( Getty ) The couples relationship had reportedly drawn disapproval and repeated threats from Subhashinis family members who opposed it out of caste pride. The victim and the accuseds sister were schoolmates and had known each other for a long time, an unnamed local police officer told Hindustan Times. The womans family had objected to their relationship. Subhashinis father S Saravanan and her mother Krishnakumari are both serving police inspectors, according to The Hindu. Tamilselvi also said in her complaint that Subhashinis family had given multiple threats to her son in the past. The Times of India reported that Subhashinis family had previously approached local police to warn Ganesh off but no formal action was taken. Surjit was arrested after he surrendered on Monday. He was charged along with his parents under relevant sections of the criminal code and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Prevention of Atrocities Act. Saravanan and Krishnakumari are reportedly absconding. Terming his sons murder a caste killing, Ganeshs father alleged that it was instigated by Subhashini's parents. The woman asked my son to come to the hospital. The accused took my son out, threw chilli powder on his face and pulled out a machete to kill him, Chandrashekar told Hindustan Times. The government should immediately expel his mother and father from service. We will protest and not take my sons body unless action is taken against them. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The execution of an Indian nurse convicted of murdering her Yemeni business partner has been cancelled, a leading Muslim cleric involved in negotiations to spare her life has said. The office of the Indian cleric, Kanthapuram AP Aboobakr Musliyar, said on Monday Nimisha Priyas execution had been revoked after a delegation of Yemeni scholars and diplomats mediated with the Houthi administration. Priya, 38, from the southern state of Kerala, was sentenced to death in 2020 for murdering Talal Abdo Mehdi, the co-owner of her clinic in Sanaa. Her execution on 16 July was suspended to allow for negotiations led by Mr Musliyar. The death sentence of Nimisha Priya, which was previously suspended, has been overturned," the clerics office announced in a statement. A high-level meeting held in Sanaa decided to completely cancel the death sentence. But unnamed Indian foreign ministry sources told ANI news agency that "information being shared by certain individuals on the Nimisha Priya case is inaccurate". The Indian government told the Supreme Court earlier this month there was nothing much it could do to prevent Priyas execution given the lack of formal diplomatic ties with Yemen. Priya has been held in a Sanaa prison since her arrest in 2017. The nurse was convicted of injecting Mehdi with sedatives in an attempt to retrieve her passport, which he had allegedly confiscated. The dose proved fatal. Her sentence was upheld by the Supreme Judicial Council in 2023. Yemeni law punishes murder by death, as it does drug trafficking, apostasy, adultery, and same-sex relations. The country, however, allows a murder convict to be pardoned by the victims kin in exchange for diyat, or blood money. Priya moved to Yemen in 2008 and eventually launched a clinic in partnership with Mehdi, in keeping with Yemeni law requiring foreign entrepreneurs to collaborate with citizens. Her family previously alleged that Priya faced mental, physical and financial abuse at his hands. She had even filed a police complaint against him in 2016, leading to his brief arrest. He allegedly resumed threatening her after getting out. The nurses mother, Prema Kumari, a domestic worker in Kochi city, has been in Yemen for the past year trying to save her daughter. In December, she moved the Delhi High Court for exemption from an Indian travel advisory barring its citizens visiting the conflict-ridden Yemen. She has visited her daughter several times in prison. In an emotional appeal earlier this year, Ms Kumari said she was deeply grateful to the Indian and Kerala governments, as well as the committee formed to save her, for all the support provided so far. But this is my final plea, she added, please help us save her life. Time is running out. Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A stock of $9.7m (7.2m) worth of contraceptives, purchased by the US for use in low-income countries, is now in transit to France to be burned rather than distributed as aid. Governments and family planning providers in France and Belgium where the items were held in a warehouse have been scrambling to block the US from destroying the supplies. The products, which include contraceptive pills, implants and IUDs (intrauterine devices or coils) and have already been paid for by US taxpayers, are being sent to a specialist facility to be incinerated, at an additional cost of $167,000. Thats despite offers from charities including MSI Reproductive Choices and the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) to take on the costs of donating the contraception. The Belgian ministry of foreign affairs had also said it was exploring all possible avenues to prevent the destruction of these stocks, including their temporary relocation. A ministry spokesperson said the department had acted as soon as the plans to destroy stocks of contraception, held in Geel in the north of the country, came to its attention, including sending formal diplomatic representations to the US embassy. French member of parliament, Soumya Bourouaha, asked in an official question on Monday for the prime minister to do everything possible to save these contraceptive stocks and deliver them to the populations who need them. The warehouse of Kuehne+Nagel, which houses US-funded contraceptives worth nearly $10m, Geel, Belgium ( Reuters ) However, the negotiations faltered, The Independent understands. The supplies are understood to be in the process of being transferred between the two countries. Access to contraception can be lifesaving unintended pregnancies in countries with high maternal mortality and no access to safe abortion can be a death sentence. Research by the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights research group, has found that the roughly $600m spent on family planning overseas by the US government in 2024 prevented 34,000 maternal deaths and more than 5 million unsafe abortions. The contraception was purchased under a contract managed by development firm Chemonics, which has been partly cancelled as part of Donald Trumps deep cuts to foreign aid. Chemonics said it was unable to comment on the programme. Two family planning charities said representatives had told them of the project that the destruction of contraceptives was part of an effort to save money, despite the fact that the supplies had already been paid for. Marcel Van Valen, IPPFs head of supply chain, said the argument that the destruction of these products would come in at a lower cost was utter nonsense, adding that the charity had offered to go and collect the products, to repack them [at] our cost and to do the distribution throughout the globe with our partners and even competitors in this space. MSIs associate advocacy director, Sarah Shaw, said: This isnt about government efficiencies. This is about exporting an ideology thats harmful to women. To give one example, she said: The annual contraceptive bill for Senegal for the entire country is $3m a year. So the contents of that warehouse could have met all of Senegals contraceptive needs for three years. And instead, were going to see massive shortages. Were going to see Senegalese women dying of unsafe abortion, girls having to drop out of school. Medical centres across Africa are already running low on contraceptives thanks to US cuts ( AP ) A bill has been introduced by Democratic senators Jeanne Shaheen and Brian Schatz to prevent the destruction of the $9.7m worth of contraceptives, specifically, as well as other medicines and food. Its not expected to pass, however, as it would need Republican support. IPPF had previously raised concerns that an additional $2m worth of condoms housed in a warehouse in Dubai were also in line to be destroyed. These were purchased under the HIV programme, the Presidents Emergency Plan for Aids Relief. A state department spokesperson described the birth control currently earmarked for destruction as abortifacient and said it did not include condoms. They added that the Mexico City Policy, also known as the Global Gag Rule first introduced in 1984 and brought back in by every Republican president since prohibits providing assistance to foreign nongovernmental organisations that perform or promote abortion. Its not clear what the administration means by birth control that is abortifacient (an agent that causes abortions). A Democratic congressional aide whose team has visited the warehouse told The Independent that their team, which had visited the Belgian warehouse, had seen only contraceptives, not abortion pills. The stocks they had seen were not approaching their expiry date. Contraceptives are saving tons of women from things like pregnancy after sexual assault or rape and saving millions ... of abortions too, the aide said. Its just not true that mifepristone or any of these abortion pills are in these warehouses. Thats completely false. In the past, conservative and religious groups in the US have falsely claimed contraceptives count as abortion agents. Dr Janet Barter, president of UK clinical membership body the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare, explained an abortion was defined by when there is a pregnancy and the abortion tablets or medications cause that pregnancy to be lost. On the other hand, when contraception is used properly, there is no pregnancy. Its very straightforward with pills, implants, injections. They all work by stopping you from producing an egg. If there is no egg, there is no pregnancy, she said, while in the case of the copper coil, it largely works by killing sperm before an egg can be fertilised. While family planning has come into the firing line, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) pointed out this was the latest in a series of destructions, including 500 tonnes of emergency food aid and almost 800,000 mpox vaccines which had been allowed to expire while active outbreaks rage. The US government manufactured this problem, said Avril Benoit, CEO of MSF USA. Destroying valuable medical items that were already paid for by US taxpayers does nothing to combat waste or improve efficiency. This administration is willing to burn birth control and let food supplies rot, risking peoples health and lives to push a political agenda. This article was produced as part of The Independents Rethinking Global Aid project For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A woman in her sixties found stabbed to death in Romford is believed by police to have known a man who died on railway tracks nearby just hours earlier. The Metropolitan Police was alerted to concerns for the welfare of a woman in east London on Sunday evening. Officers rushed to a home in Bushy Close at around 9pm. They found a woman in her sixties there who had suffered multiple stab wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The force said it was working with British Transport Police (BTP) following information that connects the womans death to another death of a 20-year-old man on the train tracks at Romford railway station earlier on Sunday. Police said early inquiries indicated that the man and woman were known to each other. BTP is treating the mans death as non-suspicious. The Met said the womans family had been notified and were being supported by specialist officers. Police said no arrests have been made and the investigation remains ongoing. Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, from the Mets specialist crime command, said: Our thoughts remain with the victims family at this difficult time as we investigate the circumstances behind this terrible incident. At this stage, we believe this to be an isolated incident with no wider risk to the public. Detective Superintendent Simon Giles, from the East area investigations team, added: I understand that the incident is distressing for the community and we are working closely with our colleagues in the Specialist Crime Command to progress the investigation as quickly as possible. Those in the area today can expect to see our officers and we encourage anyone with any information to speak with them. Those with information can call 101, report online or contact X@METCC quoting CAD6914/27JUL. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Far-right activist Tommy Robinson is believed to have left the country after he was filmed at the scene of a serious alleged assault at a London train station. Police have confirmed that the suspect in the assault, which seemingly left a man unconscious on the floor of St Pancras rail station on Monday evening, boarded a flight out of the country in the early hours of the morning. Footage widely circulated online appears to show the 42-year-old activist, of Luton, Bedfordshire, pacing back and forth as the injured man lies motionless on the station concourse. A British Transport Police spokesperson said: Following a report of an assault at St Pancras station last night (28 July), officers have confirmed that the suspect, a 42-year-old man from Bedfordshire, boarded a flight out of the country in the early hours of this morning. Detectives are continuing to work closely to progress the investigation and bring him into custody for questioning. open image in gallery Footage on social media appears to show Tommy Robinson walking away from a man in St Pancras station ( Social Media ) In the footage, Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, appeared to be walking in the background as security were called to help the unconscious man. One good samaritan could be heard urgently calling for assistance for the injured person, saying: Can we get some help over here! The footage does not show how the man came to be hurt. However, Robinson appears to say: He f***ing came at me, bruv, before walking away down a set of stairs. Earlier that day, the founder of the now-defunct English Defence League posted videos of himself in the capital on X as he promoted a protest planned for 13 September. open image in gallery Robinson following his release from HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, on 27 May ( X/@TRobinsonNewEra ) On Tuesday, Robinson further shared a post on X, appearing to suggest he had defended himself in the incident. The post, written by Mike Hacks and reposted by Robinson, said: A pre-emptive strike is totally legal. To me, it looks pretty clear. Tommy Robinson controversial or not was going about his business. Someone tried to attack him, and they came off worse. I hope theyre ok and make a full recovery, but if you start a physical fight with someone especially someone who won't hesitate to protect themselves you have to be willing to lose. In May, Robinson was released from prison after serving seven months for contempt of court. He was jailed in October for multiple breaches of an injunction made in 2021 that barred him from repeating false allegations against a Syrian refugee who successfully sued him for libel. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The loss of community spaces created tinderbox conditions for violence ahead of last years far-right riots, a new report has found. A paper published by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) found that the loss of shared community spaces from youth clubs and leisure centres to high-street pubs and piers is leaving communities more vulnerable to far-right influence. It said the closure of these spaces is forcing people into isolation, prompting them to spend more time online and pushing them towards the far right. The report warned of a pincer movement of abandonment and gentrification that has gradually led to the loss of community spaces such as the Southport pier, which closed in 2022 and an increase in isolation in many areas. Referring to previous research, the report said that 50 pubs permanently close in the UK each month, while an estimated 600 youth clubs shut down between 2012 and 2016. It noted that London lost almost 10 local authority-run community spaces a year between 2018 and 2023. open image in gallery Riots swept across the UK last summer after the Southport stabbings ( PA ) The violence in Southport, which spread through parts of England and Northern Ireland after the 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana attacked a dance class in the town, murdering three young girls, should serve as a wake-up call, according to the author of the report, Dr Sacha Hilhorst. Dr Hilhorst said: The Southport riots were a wake-up call a stark reminder of what can happen when communities lose the places that once brought people together. In the absence of shared spaces, misinformation and hate can fill the void, creating tinderbox conditions for violence. Rebuilding local infrastructure isnt just about nostalgia its a vital bulwark against division and the dangerous pull of the far right. open image in gallery Widespread rioting followed the Southport murders ( PA ) But communities are not apathetic. They are crying out for places to gather, to organise, and to belong. We need a new generation of institutions to help them do just that. The report said that the far right had capitalised on Southports disrepair to sow disorder, and noted that a fight for investment in local amenities has garnered little attention in the aftermath. It suggested the introduction of a 21st-century welfare fund raised through a so-called Amazon tax, whereby warehouses and distribution centres are subject to higher levies or online sales taxes. open image in gallery Misinformation about the Southport killings is believed to have sparked riots across the country ( PA ) It argued that online retailers who build giant structures a demonstration of their high value often do not contribute sufficiently to the communities around them. A tax on companies with revenues over 1m could help generate larger, more sustained resource for communities than current community regeneration efforts, it said. The report added: If there is a thread connecting the high-octane events of late July [2024] and the slow local politics of the pier, it is the loss of physical spaces where we might come together, and the radicalisation of some of the digital spaces that have replaced them. open image in gallery The impact of last years riots continues to affect community cohesion, a major survey on social bonds has found ( PA ) There is an appetite for community action, as the campaign for the pier shows, but a lack of investment and space. In the absence of structures which might foster wider solidarities, many retreat into the sphere of the home, or worse, into ethno-nationalist fantasies of muscular sovereignty. A government spokesperson said: The disorder that affected communities across the UK following the Southport tragedy highlighted the need for a new approach to community cohesion. Its clear that central government has lacked strategic focus on social cohesion for many years, which is why this government is working to develop a longer-term strategy to tackle divisions in our communities and build common ground. One of the most effective ways to respond to the frustrations that fester is by improving peoples lives, and the places in which they live, and through our Plan for Neighbourhoods we are already investing 1.5 billion across 75 areas in the community services local people need and making real improvements they can see on their doorsteps and in their communities. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The number of jobs in adult social care being filled by British nationals has fallen by 85,000 since the pandemic, highlighting significant recruitment challenges for the already strained sector, according to a new report. Posts filled by British nationals since 2020/2021 fell by 7 per cent, with 30,000 in the most recent year alone, according to Skills for Care, the strategic workforce development and planning body for adult social care in England. The organisation clarifies that its figures measure posts filled rather than the number of individual people, acknowledging that one person may hold multiple roles or share positions. The findings come despite a government pledge to "end the reliance on overseas recruitment". However, the latest analysis suggests a critical need to focus on "how we attract and keep more people domestically". In rules which came into effect last week, new applications for care workers and senior care workers under the skilled worker visa were closed, as part of the government's efforts in restoring control over the immigration system. open image in gallery The latest Skills for Care report said domestic recruitment remains challenging ( PA ) In April, the government implemented new rules saying that care providers would have to prove they had attempted to recruit a worker from within England before looking overseas. The latest Skills for Care report said domestic recruitment remains challenging for the sector and that the new immigration rules from July will make it more challenging for the sector to continue to grow in line with demand. The organisation re-stated its previous projection that an extra 470,000 people will need to be employed in the sector by 2040 to meet the needs of a growing older population. The report said: A substantial increase in recruitment and retention of staff with a British nationality would likely be required to achieve this level of growth. Under the previous Conservative government, a ban on international care workers bringing dependants to the UK led to a sharp drop in health and care visas in the months after the measure came in. The latest Skills for Care report said an estimated 50,000 people arrived in the UK in 2024/25 to start direct care-providing roles in the independent sector, down from 105,000 the previous year. open image in gallery Overall, the number of adult social care posts filled rose by 52,000 to 1.6 million ( Alamy/PA ) Of the 50,000 recruited internationally, an estimated 10,000 came on a health and care worker visa, while the rest came on other routes, potentially including student visas and family members of people arriving in the UK on other visa types. Overall, the number of adult social care posts filled between 2023/24 and 2024/25 rose by 52,000 to 1.6 million. The vacancy rate has also fallen to 7.0 per cent, with 111,000 vacant posts on any given day in the year to March. This is down from an 8.3 per cent vacancy rate in the year to March 2024, when there were 126,000 vacant posts on any given day. The vacancy rate hit a high of 152,000 vacant posts a day in the 12 months to March 2022. Oonagh Smyth, Skills for Cares chief executive, said while the falling vacancy rate is encouraging, the sector cant afford to be complacent. She said: We need to protect ourselves from the wild swings in vacancy rates driven by the wider economic picture. Its important to recognise that, while the vacancy rate in social care has reduced, its still three times that of the wider economy. She urged investment in stable recruitment and retention and efforts to make roles more attractive to the domestic workforce over the long term including through development opportunities, improving the quality of roles and supporting positive cultures within organisations. We know theres lots more to do, though. Everyone, from Government to care providers, from regulators to frontline staff, has a role to play in building the workforce we need to deliver the best possible care and support for the people in our communities who draw on local services. The Government has been contacted for comment. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The UKs largest lifeboat charity has said it will continue to rescue migrants who get into trouble while trying to cross the Channel in small boats, saying its staff work without judgement or preference. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has faced criticism over small boat rescues, but has insisted its job is to rescue anyone in trouble at sea. Data released by the charity showed Channel crossing incidents made up just 1.2 per cent of its total launches in 2024. Recent weeks have seen a string of protests across the UK outside hotels believed to be housing asylum seekers amid a rise in tensions over immigration. Police have clashed with demonstrators and counter-protesters outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, after an asylum seeker was charged with alleged sexual assault. Hundreds of protesters have gathered on five occasions across the last three weeks, wearing T-shirts and waving signs with slogans such as save our kids. The protests have sparked fears of widespread unrest, as seen after the Southport stabbings last summer, and demonstrations have also taken place outside hotels in Leeds, Greater Manchester, and London. open image in gallery Protesters outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex ( Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire ) But volunteers from the charity have urged people to remember migrants who find themselves in dangerous situations at sea genuinely need help. Dan Sinclair, who volunteers with Walmer RNLI, said as a father, scenes he has seen in the Channel go straight through my heart. One thing that I would like people to understand and to realise is that when we are tasked to a small boat somewhere in the Channel, these people genuinely need our help, he said. They are in distress. Theyre in unseaworthy boats offshore, taking on water in all states and conditions. They could be frozen, their legs could be paralysed, they cant talk, theyve been in that position for ages, they could be crushed, families separated. Were doing what we can to try and help save every single person, to keep families united and to keep people alive. He remembered one particular horrible, horrible situation where a family was stuck on a boat sinking in front of their eyes. There was a little girl on that boat, she looked at me straight in the eye and said: I love you, thank you, he said. As a father, that was straight through my heart. When I got home, I knew I had to go speak to my daughter and give her a big cuddle and a big kiss. It just put lots of things into perspective that these people need our help. open image in gallery Volunteers from the charity urged people to remember migrants genuinely need help ( RNLI ) The RNLI rescued 1,371 people from incidents involving small boats crossing the channel in 2024, the charity said, making up 3.7 per cent of the total number of people recorded to have crossed the Channel in small boats last year. It comes ahead of the return of Saving Lives at Sea on BBC Two this week. RNLI head of lifeboats Simon Ling said: Our volunteer lifeboat crews are normal people doing extraordinary things, often in the most challenging circumstances imaginable and we are extremely proud of their continued commitment to saving lives at sea. The crew testimony and rescue footage show the reality of what our volunteer lifeboat crews face when they launch to the aid of people crossing the Channel at the request of HM Coastguard. They are often confronted with highly challenging rescue scenarios, involving large numbers of distressed people in the water. We are incredibly proud of our crews who continue to respond selflessly to their pagers, day or night, simply to help others. We know that anyone can drown but no one should and each time our crews are requested to launch by HM Coastguard they do so knowing that someones father, mother, son or daughter need our help. We are a voluntary lifesaving rescue service, and will rescue anyone in trouble at sea, as the RNLI has been doing for more than 200 years, without judgement or preference. Saving Lives at Sea airs on BBC Two at 8pm on Thursday. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Southport continues to be plagued by Islamophobic incidents a year after the deadly knife attack that sparked race riots last year, the chairman of its mosque has revealed. Imam Ibrahim Hussein, the chairman of Southport Mosque, said members had reported six incidents to the police since last July a sharp increase from the three he said they had reported over the 30 years since they opened in the town. The mosque in the seaside town found itself at the centre of nationwide riots last July, sparked by misinformation spread online following an attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport that killed three young girls. Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, died, and eight more girls and two adults were left wounded when a knifeman stormed the class before being detained by police. Mr Hussein said the memory of the attack was in his head all the time and he remembers how the community was hoping to support the families in any way possible. open image in gallery Imam Sheik Ibrahim Hussein, speaks to media outside Southport Islamic Centre Mosque on Sussex Road in Southport ( PA ) It doesnt leave me for any one night. Of course, when the awful attack happened, we were devastated... We were hoping we could offer the family any support in any small way we could. Just being there and offering prayers. But we very quickly had reports come in saying we would be targeted. The mosque found itself at the centre of the Islamophobic rioting the evening after the attack, after false reports that the perpetrator was a Muslim asylum seeker. open image in gallery A mob threw items at police vans and officers outside the mosque ( PA ) In the evening, it escalated very quickly into a big mob charging at us. We were trapped in from 8pm to just before 1am in the morning, he recalled. But the next day, the local community came out in droves to rebuild the mosques broken wall and offer support. He said: The response from the local community was more than great. We always knew we were on good terms with our neighbours, there has been nothing but mutual respect between us and on that morning they all came out in droves to support us and the muslim community. open image in gallery The next day, the local community came out in droves to rebuild the mosques broken wall and offer support. ( PA ) However, a year on, Mr Hussein said Southports small Muslim community continues to feel nervous amid rising Islamophobia. He said: In the last 30 years, since the mosque has been here, there were about three reported incidents one every ten years on average. But in the last year, there have been six or seven incidents weve had to report. Islamophobia is going through the roof really even though people now know we had nothing to do with anything. Incidents targeting Muslims in the area have included objects being thrown at the mosque as well as cars being scratched. In June, it was reported that the back window of a mosque was damaged by an object suspected to have been thrown by a catapult. open image in gallery Incidents have included objects being thrown at the mosque as well as cars being scratched. ( PA ) People are apprehensive and are feeling kind of worried. There is an undercurrent of something going on, but we cant put our finger on it. So Ive had to warn people to be vigilant and careful. He added how this had coincided with incidents across the country in recent weeks targeting asylum seekers and other mosques. Last month, a 34-year-old man appeared in court over an attack on the Islamic Centre in Belfast. Police previously said a viable device was thrown through a window of the centre during evening prayer on Friday. Last year, Tell Mama, a charity monitoring Islamophobic incidents, said a survey had found a majority of Muslims felt hate against them had become more widespread since the summer riots. The organisation analysed the opinions of 750 Muslims across the UK eight weeks after the disorder broke out in parts of England and Northern Ireland. Tell Mama said just under three-quarters (71 per cent) felt anti-Muslim hatred and Islamophobia had become more widespread since the unrest. Almost two-thirds (62 per cent) said the potential risk of harm to Muslim communities had since increased significantly or somewhat. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Ubers rival taxi operators outside London will not face a 20 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) charge on their profit margins, the UK Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday. The unanimous decision dismissed an appeal brought by Uber, confirming that private-hire operators do not enter into a direct contract with passengers. Uber had initiated the legal challenge following a 2021 Supreme Court ruling that classified its own drivers as workers, which had significant implications for its tax and other obligations. The ride-hailing company sought a declaration that all private-hire taxi operators should be considered to have a direct contractual relationship with passengers, thereby incurring VAT. Last year, London's High Court initially ruled in Uber's favour, suggesting operators would be liable for the 20 per cent tax. However, this decision was reversed by the Court of Appeal in July 2024, following a challenge from private hire operators Delta Taxis and Veezu. The company sought a declaration that private-hire taxi operators enter into a contract with passengers and London's High Court ruled in its favour last year ( PA Wire ) The Supreme Court has now upheld the Court of Appeal's judgment, concluding the legal battle. The Supreme Court ruling will clarify the legal position for operators across much of England and Wales and may have significant implications for how private hire services are structured and delivered outside London. The news comes after Uber announced it will launch self-driving taxis in London from spring 2026. The ride-hailing app company will operate services in partnership with artificial intelligence (AI) start-up Wayve. This has been enabled by the Governments decision to bring forward trials of self-driving commercial taxis and bus-like services in England to next spring. In a separate case, Estonian ride-hailing and food delivery startup Bolt this year defeated an appeal by Britain's tax authority HMRC about what it should pay VAT at 20 per cent. HMRC has since been granted permission to challenge the ruling that Bolt is only liable for VAT on its margin, rather than the full cost of the trip, at the Court of Appeal. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A row has broken out between Labour and Nigel Farage after a Cabinet minister accused the Reform UK leader of being on the side of Jimmy Savile and extreme pornographers over his opposition to new online safety laws. The technology secretary Peter Kyle accused the Reform UK leader of wanting to turn the clock back to the time when strange adults, strangers can get in touch via messaging apps with children. It came after Mr Farages party promised to scrap the Online Safety Act - a new set of laws aimed at protecting children and adults online - dubbing it a dystopian infringement of free speech. Responding in a virtual broadcast on Tuesday morning, Mr Farage said the below the belt comments were so disgusting its almost beyond belief. open image in gallery Peter Kyles comments sparked backlash ( PA Wire ) Under rules that came into effect on July 25, online platforms such as social media sites and search engines must take steps to prevent children from accessing harmful content such as pornography or material that encourages suicide. But Reform UK said the Act, intended to reduce online harm, did absolutely nothing to protect children but worked to suppress freedom of speech and force social media companies to censor anti-government speech. Speaking to Sky News on Tuesday morning, Mr Kyle said: People have to understand the wild west that children have been living in for too long. That ended on my watch. It ended on the watch of this government. He added: I see that Nigel Farage is already saying that hes going to overturn these laws. So you know, we have people out there who are extreme pornographers, peddling hate, peddling violence. Nigel Farage is on their side. Make no mistake about it, if people like Jimmy Savile were alive today, hed be perpetrating his crimes online. And Nigel Farage is saying that hes on their side. Asked to clarify his comments, Mr Kyle added: Nigel Farage is on the side of turning the clock back to the time when strange adults, strangers can get in touch via messaging apps with children. In the wake of the comments, the Reform leader demanded the technology secretary apologise, saying: Peter Kyles comments on Sky News are disgusting. He should do the right thing and apologise. But Mr Kyle declined to do so, posting to social media: If you want to overturn the Online Safety Act, you are on the side of predators. It is as simple as that. In a broadcast from Reforms London headquarters later in the morning, the MP for Clacton said: Well this is so absolutely disgusting that its almost beyond belief. Just how low can the Labour government sink in its desperation. open image in gallery Nigel Farage would scrap the Online Safety Act, Reform UK announced on Monday (Lucy North/PA) ( PA Wire ) Yes, of course theyre in trouble. Theyre well behind us in the opinion polls. But frankly to say that I would do anything that would in any way aid and abet people like Jimmy Savile, its so below the belt its almost not true. Meanwhile, former chief Brexit negotiator Lord David Frost described the comments as shameful, adding: What chance do we have of a proper debate about free speech if Labour ministers are going to resort to this? But Labour MP Mike Tapp came to Mr Kyles defence, claiming Mr Farages morning broadcast confirms he is indeed a delicate snowflake. The new measures in the Online Safety Act include introducing age verification for websites and ensuring algorithms do not work to harm children by, for example, promoting such content towards them when online. Failing to comply with the new rules could incur fines of up to 18 million or 10 per cent of a firms global turnover, whichever is greater. The UKs independent reviewer of terrorism and state threat legislation Jonathan Hall KC warned that the Online Safety Bill will achieve precious little. I think that children have got to stop using social media, full stop. And I think we need to go down the line that Australia has pioneered, he told LBC. I'm afraid the Online Safety Act is not going to be the solution. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Keir Starmer will go into his emergency cabinet meeting this afternoon under immense political pressure to change government policy and recognise a Palestinian state. The discussion in the cabinet meeting will be part of a wider plan for peace which the prime minister will lay out to senior ministers. Sir Keir will be outlining details not yet public of a Europe-led peace plan for the Middle East which he has put together with President Emmanuel Macron of France and German chancellor Friedrich Merz his so-called E3 partners. But, in the end, the question which will be troubling Sir Keir will not be whether he wants to recognise Palestine as a country, but determining when formal recognition will have maximum effect. This is why todays cabinet meeting will be about setting a pathway to recognition, rather than doing it immediately. open image in gallery Sir Keir Starmer has an emergency cabinet meeting on Gaza this week (PA) ( PA Wire ) The problem is that recognising a state is a one-time move. Unlike a Brexit agreement or a trade deal, there is no going back to rework some of the details further down the line with this, there is no room for error. That means, for Sir Keir to do it, he has to be sure it will achieve the goals he wants. The issue will be whether solving a political problem is more important than using it to achieve peace. Current policy The current policy, shaped by the Oslo Accords, is to support a two-state solution and to recognise a Palestinian state as part of a negotiated peace process without specifying when this would be. Sir Keir has gone further and said in a strongly worded statement on Thursday that a Palestinian state is an inalienable right of the Palestinian people. For some, this was taken as a strong hint that he is edging closer to actual formal recognition. open image in gallery Macrons recognition has put Starmer under threat ( AP ) The reason it is important is that once a state is formally recognised, it gains diplomatic status and can in theory be recognised by international bodies so the move would not be purely symbolic. Added to that, the UKs historic status as the former colonial power which effectively created the modern state of Israel through the Balfour Declaration gives recognising a Palestinian state added symbolic weight. Political pressure President Emmanuel Macrons decision last week to announce that France would be the first G7 country to recognise Palestinian statehood has ramped up pressure on Sir Keir to follow suit. Already his cabinet is split over the issue, with figures like justice secretary Shabana Mahmood and deputy prime minister Angela Rayner pushing for recognition, while others like chancellor Rachel Reeves closely linked to Labour Friends of Israel (LFI) are more sceptical of an early move. Recognition is backed by a clear majority in the Labour Party though, and Jeremy Corbyns new party on the left which has made Israel-Palestine its primary policy area adds even more pressure. open image in gallery Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn has launched a new party ( PA Archive ) With more than 250 MPs from nine different parties signing a letter backing the proposition there is also clearly an appetite for it in Westminster. But weighing on the other side is Labour Friends of Israel (LFI), which is a group made more powerful by the need within Labour to repair the damage of the antisemitism which was allowed to flourish under Corbyns leadership. It also has the support of a number of senior cabinet members. LFI backs a two-state solution and eventual recognition of a Palestinian state but warns that if the UK goes for recognition early, it will waste an opportunity to maximise the effect. All about Trump Over the weekend minister James Murray pointed out that 140 countries have recognised a Palestinian state, but it has had no effect on the peace process. There is a sense that it will destroy what is left of the UKs dwindling influence with Israel, although given Benjamin Netanyahus attitude to international criticism that ship may have already sailed. The problem was that US secretary of state Marco Rubio was very critical of Frances statement last week, and there was speculation that Starmer did not want to broach the recognition question until he had his bilateral with Donald Trump in Scotland out of the way first. open image in gallery Starmer wants to persuade Trump to intervene on Middle East peace ( REUTERS ) However, that meeting produced a surprise with the US president striking a very different line to his State Department. Speaking of Palestinian statehood, Trump said: Im not going to take a position, I dont mind him [Starmer] taking a position. But the UK government now seems to understand that the only way to get Israel back in line and for the peace process to restart is for Trumps administration to force everyones hand. There is a danger that if he goes ahead with recognition of a Palestinian state, he may lose that last bit of influence he has on the White House. But in the end Sir Keir is a prime minister respected abroad but losing control at home. He may decide that the political problems recognition solves domestically are worth doing it even if it has little or no impact on the peace process. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Britain will recognise the state of Palestine within weeks unless Israel ends the appalling situation in Gaza, Sir Keir Starmer announced on Tuesday, signalling what would be a historic shift in UK foreign policy in response to the humanitarian crisis in the territory. After recalling senior ministers for an emergency cabinet meeting, the prime minister said that now is the right time to move this position forward on the two-state solution. In an ultimatum to Benjamin Netanyahus government, Sir Keir said the UK could recognise Palestine as early as the United Nations General Assembly in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire and commits to a two-state solution. There was applause at the UN in New York as foreign secretary David Lammy conveyed the news of what could be a historic turning point, more than a century after Britains role in the creation of modern-day Israel. But Mr Netanyahu claimed the announcement rewards Hamass monstrous terrorism. open image in gallery The prime minister has said the UK and its allies need to see at least 500 trucks entering Gaza every day ( Reuters ) In a statement on social media site X, he added: A jihadist state on Israels border today will threaten Britain tomorrow. Appeasement towards jihadist terrorists always fails. It will fail you too. It will not happen. The prime minister has been under pressure for months to act on the worsening crisis in Gaza, with a series of stark warnings being made about the famine and starvation in the territory. Cabinet ministers and backbenchers have added to the chorus of calls to act, with more than 250 MPs signing a letter last week demanding recognition of a Palestinian state. Sir Keir said the UN must also be allowed to restart the supply of aid, and that the British public is revolted by scenes of starvation emerging from the territory. The UK and its allies need to see at least 500 trucks entering Gaza every day to deliver aid, the prime minister added, and are mounting a major effort to get humanitarian supplies back in both by air and by land. Meanwhile, our message to the terrorists of Hamas is unchanged but unequivocal: they must immediately release all of the hostages, sign up to a ceasefire, disarm, and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza. And well make an assessment in September on how far the parties have met these steps, but no one should have a veto over our decision. open image in gallery Protesters outside Downing Street ( PA ) Explaining the change in policy, Sir Keir said he was concerned that if a Palestinian state was not recognised soon, there may not be a state to recognise. He said: Its driven today by two things: firstly, the context in the intolerable situation in Gaza, which is getting worse by the day, but also because of the concern that the very possibility of a two-state solution is reducing and feels further away today than it has for many, many years, and therefore it should be seen in both of those contexts. The prime minister set out his plan for peace during an emergency virtual cabinet meeting, following discussions over the weekend with French president Emmanuel Macron and German chancellor Friedrich Merz. Pressure had been mounting on Sir Keir to recognise Palestine as a state, but the decision to put the ball in the Israeli governments court was a compromise to satisfy two competing factions in his cabinet. Senior cabinet members who support plans to recognise a Palestinian state include deputy prime minister Angela Rayner, justice secretary Shabana Mahmood, energy secretary Ed Miliband and foreign secretary David Lammy. open image in gallery A protester claims the UK government has blood on its hands for supporting Israel ( PA ) But others including chancellor Rachel Reeves, tech secretary Peter Kyle, and chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden, all former officers of Labour Friends of Israel (LFI) were worried recognition would reward Hamas. Mr Lammy, speaking from the United Nations in New York, said the UK bears a special burden of responsibility to support the two-state solution as he announced the UKs plan to recognise Palestinian statehood at the United Nations in New York. The situation on the ground continues to worsen and the two-state solution is in peril, he told a United Nations conference on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He described Israels rejection of a two-state solution as morally and strategically wrong. The Netanyahu governments rejection of a two-state solution is wrong; its wrong morally, and its wrong strategically. open image in gallery David Lammy called for access to aid to be urgently widened ( PA ) Labour MP Sarah Champion, who organised the letter from MPs demanding recognition of a Palestinian state, said: Its a really big moment... It will politically be a very strong message that we are sending to Israel: that we believe in the self-determination of the Palestinian people and that the status quo is not good enough. However, Labour Friends of Israel warned that recognition of a Palestinian state would be merely symbolic unless the UK and its allies use their influence to establish the principles of a meaningful pathway to a Palestinian state. A spokesperson said: Recognition of a Palestinian state outside of a meaningful peace process will change nothing on the ground and will damage our reputation as an impartial broker, reducing our ability to bring about a sustainable long-term peace. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said: Its disgraceful that Keir Starmer recalled his cabinet to try and sort out a political problem for the Labour Party. Recognising a Palestinian state wont bring the hostages home, wont end the war and wont get aid into Gaza. This is political posturing at its very worst. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Sir Keir Starmer has issued an ultimatum to Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, warning he will recognise a Palestinian state in September unless a series of conditions are met. The prime ministers decision comes after mounting pressure from his backbench MPs, and even cabinet ministers, to recognise Palestine as a state. Sir Keir held an emergency meeting of his cabinet on Tuesday to condemn the increasingly intolerable situation in Gaza and discuss a UK-led peace plan for the region which David Lammy presented to allies in New York. open image in gallery Keir Starmer set a series of tests for Benjamin Netanyahu ( REUTERS ) But the PM went further, updating Labours position on the recognition of a Palestinian state. The Independent looks at what the change of stance means, and what conditions Sir Keir has set out ahead of recognition. What does it mean? Recognition of a Palestinian state is a largely symbolic move given the situation on the ground in Gaza and the rest of the Occupied Palestinian Territories. The Montevideo Convention of 1933 established several criteria which must apply before an entity can be recognised as a sovereign state. These are a permanent population, a defined territory, an effective government and the ability to conduct international relations. But the process would offer tangible benefits to the Palestinians. It involves the establishment of formal diplomatic relations, including the opening of embassies, the exchange of ambassadors, and the signing of bilateral treaties. Recognition also grants the recognised state access to certain rights in international organisations. For Palestinians, such recognition would strengthen their claim to sovereignty and facilitate greater international support. Added to that, the UK recognising a Palestinian state has a special significance because it was Britain which in effect created the modern state of Israel with the Balfour Declaration in 1926, signed by then Foreign Secretary Sir Arthur Balfour. Britain also brings extra influence as the former colonial power and current member of the UN Security Council. Who else has recognised Palestine? France has committed to recognising a Palestinian state in September, when Sir Keirs own promise to do so will take effect if Israel ignores his demands. Emmanuel Macrons promise put his country on course to be the first in the G7 to recognise Palestine. open image in gallery Emmanuel Macron has promised to recognise a Palestinian state ( AP ) But already 144 of the 193 UN member states, including Spain, Norway, Ireland, India, Russia and China recognise it as a state. Critics have argued that recognition has not helped resolve the problems on the ground or brought peace. They also note that Palestine does not fulfil the criteria of a state with a permanent population, a defined territory, a stable government, and the ability to enter into relations with other states. What has Keir Starmer called for? Sir Keir has set a series of conditions for the Israeli prime minister, warning that if they are not met, Britain will recognise Palestine alongside France at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) meeting in September. The first is for the Israeli government to take substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, which is seeing thousands of Palestinians starving as aid is unable to get into the strip. The second is for Mr Netanyahu to promise no annexation in the West Bank. And the third is a commitment to a long-term peace process that will deliver a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine. The prime minister has also said the UK and its allies need to see "at least 500 trucks entering Gaza every day" to deliver aid. open image in gallery Benjamin Netanyahu is unlikely to meet Sir Keir Starmers demands ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Notably, Mr Netanyahu and right-wing elements of his government have abandoned the promise of a two-state solution and pushed for a one-state solution. Sir Keir also called for Hamas to release remaining hostages, agree to a ceasefire, disarm themselves and rule themselves out of government in Gaza. But there are concerns that he has not linked Palestinian state recognition to his demands of Hamas. Is either side likely to agree? In short, no. The prime ministers ultimatum is likely to be largely ignored by Mr Netanyahu, leaving recognition of a Palestinian state by Britain looking almost inevitable. Hamas is also unlikely to agree to the prime ministers conditions and will continue to hold on to its hostages. There is a danger that while US president Donald Trump in effect said he would accept the UK recognising a Palestinian state, his US State Department is strongly opposed to the move and it could damage the special relationship. The prime minister promised an assessment of how far both sides have progressed towards meeting his tests before UNGA. But the news about Britains plans now looks set to dominate the conference. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The world economy will grow faster than expected after the impact of Donald Trumps tariff war waned and imports to the US surged, new projections show. The British economy could experience a small boost, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) upgrading its growth predictions by just 0.1 per cent for 2025. Growth is expected to sit at 1.2 per cent this year and 1.4 per cent for 2026, according to the organisations latest World Economic Outlook forecasts. It came as the IMF said the global economy would be more resilient than it expected in May. Global growth is set to be 3 per cent this year and 3.1 per cent next year, up from 2.8 per cent and 3 per cent respectively. Like Britain, Germany and Italy have both had their growth upgraded by 0.1 per cent for 2025. However, both have received no upgrade for 2026. Meanwhile, Canada was handed a marginally bigger upgrade of 0.2 per cent in 2025 and 0.3 per cent in 2026, taking its growth to 1.6 per cent in 2025 and 1.9 per cent in 2026. open image in gallery Rachel Reeves has been accused of talking down the economy ( PA Wire ) The world growth upgrade reflects what the IMF called front-loading, with countries rushing to ship goods to the US to get ahead of Mr Trumps tariffs. This has happened as businesses and households tried to prepare for planned increases following Mr Trumps liberation day announcements in April, according to the report. The IMF said front-loading had shaped economic activity in the first half of the year, adding that it was creating exposures that could amplify the impact of any potential negative shocks. For example, firms could end up having too much stock, therefore pushing down future imports, or it could lead to additional holding costs or the risk of items becoming obsolete. Meanwhile, the growth upgrade since April was also driven by US tariffs being lowered since higher rates were first announced by Mr Trump, alongside improved conditions in the financial markets. This came after the US struck new trade deals, including one with the UK and, most recently, the EU. However, the chancellor, Rachel Reeves, faces tough questions over why the UKs growth rate continues to flatline while other economies benefit from the US trade deals. open image in gallery The IMF said trade deals between the US and partners had softened the impact of Donald Trumps tariffs ( AFP/Getty ) The chancellor has been accused of stalling growth, with critics pointing to her so-called doom and gloom attitude towards the UK economy and last year's tax-heavy October Budget. She has a multi-billion-pound black hole to fill ahead of this autumns Budget and is considering a range of potential tax hikes and spending cuts to balance the countrys books. The Conservatives said that under Labour growth is going nowhere, adding that the IMF report confirms that. Shadow chancellor Mel Stride said: Business confidence has collapsed all because of the chancellors reckless economic choices. You cant tax your way to growth we need to back British businesses and workers. Yet Rachel Reeves looks set to do it all over again in the autumn yet more taxes, yet more pain for our economy. But Ms Reeves said the forecast still points to the UK having the highest growth in the G7. The chancellor said: I am determined to unlock Britain's full potential, which is why we are investing billions of pounds through our Plan for Change in jobs through better city region transport, record funding for affordable homes, as well as backing major projects like Sizewell C to drive economic growth and put more money into peoples pockets. Countries also benefited from the introduction of some higher tariff rates, while others were paused until August, notably between China and the US, helping diffuse escalating trade tensions and open the door to negotiations. However, the IMF warned that a rebound in effective tariff rates could lead to weaker growth and weigh on wider sentiment. Elevated uncertainty could start weighing more heavily on activity, also as deadlines for additional tariffs expire without progress on substantial, permanent agreements, the report said. Furthermore, the IMF flagged conflict in the Middle East as an issue creating potential risks to global shipping and trade, which could further raise commodity prices like oil. On the other hand, the report found that global growth could be lifted if trade negotiations lead to lower tariffs, ease tensions, and create more certainty and predictability. The IMF also highlighted technological advancements, including the use of artificial intelligence, as a way to further boost growth around the world. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Gwyneth Paltrow ran a workplace that was allegedly chaotic and sometimes toxic, resulting in mass resignations in recent years, a new book has claimed. The Oscar-winning actors Goop healthcare and wellness brand has reportedly suffered from an inability to be sustainably profitable, with executives struggling to navigate Paltrows impatience and perfectionism. The claims come as part of a new biography by Amy Odell, who also penned the 2021 biography Anna, about the life of Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour. In Gwyneth, which was released Tuesday, Odell describes how those that worked at Goop seemed cagier than many of Wintour's former employees, noting that many had signed NDAs. The company she founded in 2008 hasn't experienced sustained profitability, has allegedly suffered from a chaotic and sometimes toxic office culture, and has lacked a clear business strategy as it ping-pongs from one of Gwyneth's ideas to the next, Odell writes, in an excerpt from the book. open image in gallery Gwyneth Paltrow ran a workplace that was allegedly chaotic and sometimes toxic, resulting in mass resignations in recent years, a new book has claimed ( AP ) As the main narrator of her own public story, Gwyneth has masterfully shaped our perception of her. She knows all her best angles. The star of Shakespeare in Love , Sliding Doors and The Talented Mr Ripley who took a break from Hollywood in 2027 to launch her brand is also portrayed as somewhat ignorant of the machinations of a business and was described as erratic and childish in the way she dealt with employees, according to the book. Within the past two years, Odell states, Goop lost at least 140 employees, including its chief financial officer, chief technology officer, chief revenue officer, general counsel and chief content officer Many were terrified to talk about Gwyneth, Odell writes. Some people I interviewed had seen her take action against people she felt had crossed her. open image in gallery The actress recently made headlines in the fallout of the Astronomer scandal, in which the software companys CEO Andy Byron was caught being intimate with his head of HR Kristin Cabot at a Coldplay concert and was called out by frontman Chris Martin. She had appeared in a commercial for the brand ( Astronomer/LinkedIn ) Gwyneth has had a habit throughout her life of bringing people close to her, then cooling on them. Some simply move on, while others become dismayed and desperate to get back into her inner circle. The Independent has reached out to Paltrow and Goop about the claims made in Gwyneth via the company. According to further excerpts of Gwyneth, seen by The Times, the actress was reportedly childish, or even outright rude, to other high-profile individuals she had in her life. After breaking up with Brad Pitt in 1997, she reportedly told an interviewer that she had to explain the difference between separate types of caviar, and described him as being dumber than a sack of shit. The Times reports that, per the book, Paltrow also gossiped about another former fling, Ben Affleck, as well as distancing herself from long-time friend Madonna because her ex-husband Chris Martin had reportedly taken a dislike to her. Paltrow recently harked back to the time when she and Martin were together, prior to their conscious uncoupling in 2014, after appearing in a commercial for software company Astronomer. It came after Astronomer CEO Andy Byron was caught being intimate with his head of HR Kristin Cabot at a Coldplay concert and was called out by frontman Martin live at the show. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Researchers in Mexico are employing an unusual method to locate the thousands of individuals who have vanished amidst decades of drug cartel violence: pigs. These animals serve as proxies for human remains, undergoing various simulated disposal methods. Scientists dress the dead swine in clothes, wrap them in packing tape, or even dismember them. Some are stuffed into plastic bags, others wrapped in blankets, covered in lime, or incinerated. They are then buried, either individually or in groups, as researchers meticulously observe the decomposition process. This research aims to address the staggering number of disappearances, a crisis often leaving families to search for loved ones with minimal official assistance. Now, government scientists are integrating these pig studies with cutting-edge satellite, geophysical, and biological mapping techniques. The hope is that these combined efforts will yield crucial clues, ultimately leading to the discovery of at least some of the missing bodies. 130,000 missing and counting open image in gallery A view of a burial site of pig carcasses that are proxies for humans in research to help find people who have gone missing in Mexico during decades of drug cartel violence, in Zapopan, Mexico ( Associated Press/Alejandra Leyva ) The ranks of Mexicos missing exploded in the years following the launch of then-President Felipe Calderons war against drug cartels in 2006. A strategy that targeted the leaders of a handful of powerful cartels led to a splintering of organized crime and the multiplication of violence to control territory. With near complete impunity, owing to the complicity or inaction of the authorities, cartels found that making anyone they think is in their way disappear was better than leaving bodies in the street. Mexican administrations have sometimes been unwilling to recognize the problem and at other times are staggered by the scale of violence their justice system is unprepared to address. Mexicos disappeared could populate a small city. Official data in 2013 tallied 26,000 missing, but the count now surpasses 130,000 more than any other Latin American nation. The United Nations has said there are indications that the disappearances are generalized or systematic. If the missing people are found dead or alive it is usually by their loved ones. Guided by information from witnesses, parents and siblings search for graves by walking through cartel territory, plunging a metal rod into the earth and sniffing for the scent of death. Around 6,000 clandestine graves have been found since 2007, and new discoveries are made all the time. Tens of thousands of remains have yet to be identified. Testing creative solutions open image in gallery A specialist examines crawling creatures collected from clandestine graves as part of a research project to help locate missing people, in Guadalajara, Mexico ( Associated Press/Alejandra Leyva ) Jalisco, which is home to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, has the largest number of people reported missing in Mexico: 15,500. In March, human bone fragments and hundreds of items of clothing were discovered at a cartel ranch in the state. Authorities denied it was the site of a mass grave. Jose Luis Silvan, a coordinator of the mapping project and scientist at CentroGeo, a federal research institute focused on geospacial information, said Jaliscos disappeared are why were here. The mapping project, launched in 2023, is a collaboration by Guadalajara University, Mexicos National Autonomous University and the University of Oxford in England, alongside the Jalisco Search Commission, a state agency that organizes local searches with relatives. No other country is pushing so strongly, so creatively" to test and combine new techniques, said Derek Congram, a Canadian forensic anthropologist, whose expertise in geographic information systems inspired the Mexican project. Still, Congram warns, technology is not a panacea. Ninety percent of searches are resolved with a good witness and digging, he said. Plants, insects and decomposing pigs open image in gallery A member of the State Commission for the Search for Missing Persons collects insects within the experimental grounds in order to gather information and improve the location of clandestine graves through observation, geological analysis, and geospatial drones in Cajititlan, Mexico ( Associated Press/Alejandra Leyva ) Silvan walks by a site where scientists buried 14 pigs about two years ago. He says they may not know how well the technology works, where and when it can be used, or under what conditions, for at least three years. Flowers came up because of the phosphorous at the surface, we didnt see that last year, he said as he took measurements at one of the gravesites. The mothers who search say that that little yellow flower always blooms over the tombs and they use them as a guide. Pigs and humans are closely related, famously sharing about 98 per cent of DNA. But for the mapping project, the physical similarities also matter. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, pigs resemble humans in size, fat distribution and the structure and thickness of skin. A big Colombian drone mounted with a hyperspectral camera flies over the pig burial site. Generally used by mining companies, the camera measures light reflected by substances in the soil, including nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and shows how they vary as the pigs decompose. The colorful image it produces offers clues of what to look for in the hunt for graves. This isnt pure science, Silvan said. It is science and action. Everything learned has to be applied immediately, rather than wait for it to mature, because theres urgency. Researchers also employ thermal drones, laser scanners and other gadgets to register anomalies, underground movements and electrical currents. One set of graves is encased behind a pane of transparent acrylic, providing a window for scientists to observe the pigs decomposition in real time. The Jalisco commission compares and analyzes flies, beetles, plants and soil recovered from the human and pig graves. Each grave is a living micro ecosystem, said Tunuari Chavez, the commission's director of context analysis. Science to serve society open image in gallery A specialist examines insects collected from clandestine graves in Jalisco, which are currently being studied as part of a research project to help find people who have gone missing in Mexico during decades of drug cartel violence ( Associated Press/Alejandra Leyva ) Triggered by the disappearance of 43 students in 2014, Silvan and his colleagues started gathering information about ground-penetrating radar, electric resistivity and satellite imagery from around the world. They studied University of Tennessee research on human corpses buried at a body farm. They looked at grave-mapping techniques used in the Balkans, Colombia and Ukraine. What good is science or technology if it doesnt solve problems? he said. They learned new applications of satellite analysis, then began their first experiments burying pigs and studying the substances criminals use to dispose of bodies. They found lime is easily detected, but hydrocarbons, hydrochloric acid and burned flesh are not. Chavezs team worked to combine the science with what they knew about how the cartels operate. For example, they determined that disappearances in Jalisco commonly happened along cartel routes between Pacific ports, drug manufacturing facilities and the U.S. border, and that most of the missing are found in the same municipality where they disappeared. Expert relatives The experience of the families of the missing also informs the research. Some observed that graves are often found under trees whose roots grow vertically, so those digging the graves can remain in the shade. Mothers of missing loved ones invited by researchers to visit one of the pig burial sites were able to identify most of the unmarked graves by sight alone, because of the plants and soil placement, Silvan said. The knowledge flows in both directions, he said. Maribel Cedeno, who has been looking for her missing brother for four years, said she believes the drones and other technology will be helpful. I never imagined being in this situation, finding bodies, becoming such an expert, she said of her quest. Hector Flores has been searching for his son since 2021. He questions why so much time and effort has been invested in methods that have not led to concrete discoveries, when the families have proven track records with little official support. Although the research has not yet concluded, the Jalisco Search Commission is already using a thermal drone, a laser scanner and a multispectral camera to help families look for their missing relatives in some cases. But it is unclear whether authorities across Mexico will ever be willing to use, or able to afford, the high-tech aides. Congram, the forensic scientist, said researchers are aware of the limitations of technology, but that you always have to try, fail, fail again and keep trying. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Florida schools could soon deploy the Campus Guardian Angel drone system to help police defend against shootings. School shootings are prevalent in America, especially in states such as Florida. The state has documented more than 60 school shooting incidents since 2018, local ABC affiliate WTXL reported, citing the K-12 School Shooting Database. Nikolas Cruz, 19, opened fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland in February 2018. A total of 17 people were killed and 17 more were injured. Cruz was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The new drone technology could help prevent such tragedies by deploying drones to schools in seconds and providing police with immediate situational awareness, according to WTXL, which reported on the program. open image in gallery Florida schools could soon deploy the 'Campus Guardian Angel,' a drone system that can help police defend against shootings ( Getty ) On Monday, the program was demonstrated at the Leon County Schools District Security Center. The drones live-streamed video, and one even knocked down a dummy to show its ability to use force to delay a threat. The pilot program has $557,000 in state funding behind it, but Leon County Schools Superintendent Rocky Hanna told WTXL the cost to fully implement the system past the pilot could be more than $1 million. I think anytime you make an investment you have to think of the return on that investment. So, as we are hiring an additional deputy sheriff in all of our high schools, so we have security monitors in all of our schools, Hanna said. open image in gallery School shootings are prevalent in America especially in states such as Florida ( AFP/Getty ) He continued: We have a weapons detection dogthat comes with the price tag. We have AI software in our cameras. All that comes at a price point, and so its us managing that budget and trying to figure out where were getting the biggest bang for our buck. The state funding for the pilot program will cover its implementation in three school districts, according to the local outlet. Leon County is being considered. In April, some of the students who survived the Parkland shooting had to endure another school shooting at Florida State University. The suspected gunman, Phoenix Ikner, has been accused of killing two people and injuring six more. His defense attorney entered a not guilty plea on his behalf. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Tens of thousands of tarantulas are starting to make their way above ground, in search of fuzzy love. But while that sounds like an arachnophobes worst nightmare, scientists say its not as scary as you might think. The annual mating season for the worlds largest spiders is already under way in the Southwest, as high spring temperatures and moisture drive the hungry creatures out of their underground burrows. Texas is in full-flung mating season, the Austin American-Statesman reports, with tarantulas popping up in South Texas grasslands and deserts. Its kind of shocking to people that may have never experienced it because most have not seen a tarantula before even if they have lived in that area most of their life (theyre pretty secretive), University of Idaho Associate Professor Dr. Chris Hamilton told The Independent. Starting in October and through November, California, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arizona, and New Mexico can also expect an influx of eight-legged friends. In Colorado, where tarantulas are a major attraction, the municipality of La Junta tells people to try to see them an hour before dusk during mid-September to October around the Comanche National Grassland. open image in gallery Tens of thousands of tarantulas are expected to come out of their burrows, searching for a mate in the coming months ( Getty/iStock ) Sometimes people catch them trekking across roads and highways. Weve counted as many as 50 [tarantulas] in an hour and a half. Thats pretty substantial, Lyn Neve, a National Forest Service employee, told Denver 7 last year. But while you might see a so-called clutter of tarantulas in these states, particularly near grasslands, it wont come close to the Fifties cult film Tarantula. which saw a house-sized arachnid terrorize an Arizona town. Of the 29 tarantula species in the U.S., most only reach around 4.5 inches in diameter. And those who appear above ground are normally males as female tarantulas are basically homebodies, says the National Park Service. Males may live as many as 10 years, but females can live for up to a quarter of a century. For the males, the journey to find a mate is no picnic. While they typically only travel about a mile to a females burrow in that time many are eaten by snakes, owls or foxes, or run over by cars. Others will die of exhaustion or the inability to shed their skin. open image in gallery To see the nocturnal predators, experts say people should head out at night in summer. In later months, people can see them before dusk ( Getty/iStock ) It makes me feel bad for the little dudes, Cristi Painter, a wildlife biologist with the National Forest Service, also told Denver 7. You know, he just wants a girlfriend and hopefully one that doesnt eat him. And if she doesnt, hes going to die anyway. If you do want to see the spiders, the best time to see them in summer is in the middle of the night. But, just dont get too close: Tarantulas are not known to bite, but it doesnt mean that they cant. Their bite is comparable to a bee sting which usually only has a mild effect on humans, although some people may have a more severe allergic reaction. They can be grumpy when handled roughly, but if they bite, its typically from being provoked, Wizzie Brown, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service entomology specialist, explained in a statement. So, look at them and appreciate them because they are beneficial. But people shouldnt handle tarantulas in the wild. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The crisis in Gaza reached new horrific levels this week as the worlds leading authority on famine and food security declared that mass starvation and death is imminent within the enclave unless Israeli forces begin allowing more aid into the Strip. In Washington, the mood among Democrats on the issue is dark. Having chained their party to support for Israel under the Biden administration, the party suffered a devastating defeat in 2024 and are now being forced to watch a resurgence on the progressive pro-Palestinian left. Despite breathless insistences to the contrary by center-left commentators, its becoming increasingly clear that the base of the Democratic Party is shifting away from the pro-Israel consensus long upheld by the DC foreign policy establishment. Its not just the left, either; new polling shows a generational divide across all party lines on the issue of sympathy for support of Palestinian statehood and an end to the slaughter in Gaza. Few will say it openly, but no one is denying it on the left: there has been an earthquake within the party. open image in gallery Zohran Mamdanis win was boosted, not slowed, by his views on Israel and Gaza according to a new poll ( Reuters ) The upstart victory of Zohran Mamdani in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor came amid a barrage of coverage from the mainstream media including his hometown papers, the New York Times and New York Post which often insinuated that Mamdani harbored anti-Semitic beliefs or falsely accused him of expressing them. It also rebuked the endorsements of aging Democratic would-be kingmakers Bill Clinton and James Clyburn, who issued late-game endorsements of New Yorks former governor, Andrew Cuomo. In a poll out Tuesday from the IMEU Policy Project conducted by Data for Progress, a clear portrait of the race emerges. Nearly eight in 10 New York mayoral primary voters said they believed Israel was committing a genocide in Gaza. Putting aside the mayoral race entirely for a moment how does a candidate in the ideological vein of Joe Biden or Kamala Harris fare among an electorate like that? In the same poll, 63 percent of Democratic primary voters in the city supported what could easily be described as Mamdanis most hardline position on the matter of Israel-Palestine: his support for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were he ever to visit the city. A lower figure than the number that are willing to assign the term genocide to the conflict, but far from insignificant. A news article in the Jewish magazine Forward put the question plainly on Monday: After Mamdani and Gaza, are Democrats turning against Israel? Democrats in New York and across the country are quickly waking up to the rapidly shifting ground beneath them. Rep. Ritchie Torres, a Democrat and vocal critic of his colleagues in the so-called Squad, bluntly assessed that he could not win a Democratic primary for governor in the state after Mamdanis victory. Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic House Minority Leader, reportedly told allies that he doubts his ability to win the speakership with Mamdani in play. Kirsten Gillibrand, New Yorks junior US senator, issued a humbling apology to Mamdani after accusing him (falsely) of supporting jihad. The efforts to dodge what could be a historic wave of primary challenges fueled by progressive rage over the next three years are hastily getting underway. Joe Bidens departure from the White House and Netanyahus close alliance with Trump make criticizing Israel a much easier prospect for Democrats. The mass starvation and shocking killings of Palestinians at aid reception areas by Israeli troops have accelerated the criticism of Israel from Washington Democrats in the past week. In the Senate, a large coalition of Democrats led by Chris Van Hollen of Maryland is urging the Trump administration to publicly break with the Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation and return to reliance on neutral international groups to provide aid. Van Hollen, who was a lonely voice for Palestinian suffering under the Biden administration, now has the backing of nearly half of his caucus. One unsurprising holdout was John Fetterman, the Pennsylvania senator and vocal supporter of Israel, including some of its most controversial war-fighting methods that have been denounced as war crimes by the International Criminal Court and others. Fetterman, up for reelection in 2028, has vultures circling him. Conor Lamb, his former primary opponent, is punching him relentlessly on social media and in a series of public appearances hes made at town hall-style events across the state. Lamb, who tweeted in support of destroying Hamas and supporting Israel after the October 7 attacks, lost out on endorsements from the progressive left that now despises Fetterman when they ran against each other in 2022. Another Pennsylvania congressman, a Democrat, tweeted (publicly!) that he hopes Fetterman doesnt run for president. open image in gallery John Fetterman is his partys loudest remaining pro-Israel hawk. Hes taking a beating for it ( Getty ) This past week, Lamb tweeted that he hopes Pope Leo, the first American pontiff, continues to speak against starvation and barbarity in Gaza. Members of the House are speaking out as well. Rep. Andre Carson, a Democrat from Indiana, came out in support of an arms embargo against Israel on Monday while accusing Netanyahus government of starving the population of Gaza. Others, including Madeleine Dean, demanded another ceasefire be hammered out. Torres attacked a Republican colleague for making repeated Islamophobic remarks about Rep. Ilhan Omar, and in an interview with Chuck Todd blasted Netanyahu for doing irreparable harm to the relationship between Israel and the Democratic Party. Leadership is lagging behind but clearly feels the wind shifting: Minority Whip Katherine Clark and Jeffries released statements on Friday on the starvation, each condemning the crisis, neither one using the word Israel at any point. Even Barack Obama, hesitant as he typically is to speak out on the issue of the day in his post-presidency, put out a statement seemingly critical of Israel, writing in part: There is no justification for keeping food and water away from civilian families. The only Democrats who are being truly silent on the issue are tied directly to the former administration. Pete Buttigieg and Kamala Harris are widely seen as two of the most likely to contend for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination. Neither has issued a word about Gaza for months. Harris, also thought to be considering a run for governor of California, hasnt sat for a long-form interview this year. In the end it could be difficult to determine exactly how much of the stink attached to former Biden-world figures relates to Gaza, as opposed to the year(s?)-long coverup of the presidents declining faculties. One thing is for certain: something shifted in the past week, something beyond just the fallout from election of a charismatic Muslim candidate in a prominent but isolated primary race. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A former FBI staffer has told The Atlantic that President Donald Trumps picks to lead the nations top law enforcement agency have no idea what theyre doing and are playing dress up. Michael Feinberg, an assistant special agent in charge at the FBIs field office in Norfolk, Virginia, left the FBI after getting a call from his boss in late May about a friendship with a former agent who criticized the president. Feinberg, a 15-year veteran of the bureau, chose to depart from the agency rather than be fired. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino became aware that Feinberg was friends with former counterintelligence agent Peter Strzok, who has long provoked the presidents fury. Strzok was fired during Trumps first term after the Department of Justice released texts in which he spoke negatively about Trump, who attacked him for his work on the probe into Russian election interference in 2016. The connection to Strzok was sufficient for the bureau to cancel a promotion for Feinberg, he told The Atlantic. His boss indicated that he might be demoted and that he would have to take a polygraph test regarding the friendship. He chose to leave the FBI. I love my country and our Constitution with a fervor that mere language will not allow me to articulate, and it pains me that my profession will no longer entail being their servant, Feinberg wrote in his resignation letter, according to The Atlantic. He has chosen to speak out following his departure as former colleagues at the bureau have asked him to, themselves fearing retribution. open image in gallery FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino have no idea what theyre doing, Michael Feinberg argues ( Getty ) In an essay published by Lawfare early this month, Feinberg argued that the FBI is increasingly concerned with ideological purity and the ceaseless politicization of the workforce, which makes us all less safe. He joined the FBI in 2009 because he wanted to protect both United States interests in the world and the rule of law on the domestic front. Feinberg speaks Mandarin and helped lead the bureaus probe into Huawei, the Chinese technology company, which the U.S. alleged was stealing trade secrets from U.S. firms. Following his departure, Feinberg is unsure if any senior counterintelligence officials speak Chinese at the bureau. Its particularly concerning to me, as someone who dedicated his professional career to combating the Chinese Communist Party and all of its tentacles, to see resources and efforts diverted away from hostile foreign intelligence services and other serious threats to the homeland to focus on minor immigration status offenses, he wrote in his essay. open image in gallery Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide on August 10, 2019, at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York City ( Florida Department of Law Enforcement ) Bongino and FBI Director Kash Patel became embroiled in the ongoing scandal about the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein earlier this month. They initially claimed that stark revelations would be made about Epstein and his connections to the wealthy and powerful. However, the Trump administration released a memo quashing the notion that Epstein had a client list and rejected any conspiracy theories surrounding his death by suicide in a Manhattan jail cell on August 10, 2019. Asked about the Epstein scandal, Feinberg told The Atlantic: They get a kick out of playing dress-up and acting tough. But they actually have no idea what theyre doing. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice More than half of Americans disapprove of the way President Donald Trump is handling the Epstein Files after he suddenly backtracked on his promise to release previously undisclosed information in the governments investigation into the convicted sex offender. In a poll of 1,089 people by the Washington Post., 58 percent said they were not happy with the way Trump was responding to issues related to the Epstein Files. The president has riled up his supporters by asking them to move on from the Epstein Files after the FBI and Department of Justice released a memo shutting down speculation that Epstein had a client list of high-profile individuals. The agencies also reaffirmed that the disgraced financier died by suicide while in federal jail in 2019. It came as a shock because Trump had previously said he would release the files, which many believe contain information about celebrities or wealthy individuals. A mention in the file does not mean there was wrongdoing. A Department of Justice official previously told the the Journal that hundreds of names are in the documents. Many independent and Democratic voters told the Post that they were skeptical of Trumps sudden reversal on releasing the files, believing he is covering up information to protect himself or others. A vast majority of Americans said in a Washington Post survey they believe the Epstein Files should be released ( Getty Images ) Trump is not forthcoming with information. Seems a lot more likely as if he has something to hide, a 59-year-old Massachusetts man who identifies as an independent told the newspaper. One 73-year-old Iowa woman, who identifies as a Democrat, said: It just feels like a cover up. If he has no involvement, why not release them? Speculation around Trumps relationship with Epstein has only escalated since the president encouraged supporters to move on from the situation earlier this month at a cabinet meeting. On July 18, the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump sent Epstein a bawdy birthday card, referencing secrets and a drawing of the outline of a naked womans body. Trump has denied ever doing so and sued the Journal and its publisher for libel for $10 billion. During a visit to Scotland Monday, Trump said he never had the privilege of visiting Epsteins island, and had previously turned down an invitation. He has dismissed the wider story about the files as a hoax. The presidents continued refusal to release the files in full has led to even some of his strongest supporters, such as Charlie Kirk, Tucker Carlson, and Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, opposing him on the issue. Among the Posts survey respondents, 26 percent said they had no strong opinion on the situation, while only 16 percent said they approve of the presidents handling. MAGA Republicans were more likely to approve of Trumps position, with 43 percent siding with the president. Among non-MAGA Republicans, 38 percent said they approved. I trust the current administration and don't second guess them, an 81-year-old Florida woman, who identifies as a MAGA Republican, told the Post. Because his office isn't really talking about it. Let it go already. Epstein and his girl pal are the only guilty parties, a 61-year-old Maryland woman who identifies as MAGA said. The Posts findings largely reflects similar polling conducted by Quinnipiac University, which found that 63 percent of voters disapprove of the presidents handling overall, but 40 percent of Republicans approve. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Another group of Christian denominations is suing Donald Trumps administration to stop immigration enforcement arrests in their churches. A lawsuit from Baptist, Lutheran and Quaker groups accuses Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem of chilling First Amendment protections and infringing on religious freedoms. The groups filed a motion for a preliminary injunction to block the policy on Tuesday. After Trump entered office, the administration rescinded previous Immigration and Customs Enforcement policy that prohibited enforcement actions in sensitive locations such as places of worship, as well as schools and hospitals. Within the last month, federal agents seized a man in front of a church, brandished a rifle at a pastor and detained a grandfather dropping off his granddaughter at a church school in Los Angeles, according to the lawsuit. Federal officers have also recently chased several men into a church parking lot and arrested a parishioner at churches across southern California, according to church leaders. As a result, people across the country, regardless of immigration status, reasonably fear attending houses of worship, according to the lawsuit. The open joy and spiritual restoration of communal worship has been replaced by isolation, concealment, and fear. open image in gallery Chicagos Lincoln United Methodist Church stopped having in-person Spanish-language services because of ICE activity in the neighborhood. Several lawsuits from denominations representing millions of worshippers have sought to block Trump administration policy allowing ICE enforcement near places of worship ( Getty ) Attendance and donations have plummeted, and congregations have gone underground to protect their parishioners, eschewing in-person meetings central to their faith, plaintiffs argued. Baptisms are being held in private, churches have stopped advertising immigrant-focused ministries, and houses of worship have suddenly had to lock those doors and train their staff how to respond to immigration raids, according to the complaint. The lawsuit is at least the fourth filed by faith leaders against ICE policy within the last six months. In February, more than two dozen religious groups similarly sued the administration. A federal judge ultimately partially granted a restraining order that blocked ICE from enforcement actions in roughly 1,700 places of worship in 35 states and Washington, D.C. But in April, a Trump-appointed judge sided with the administration in a similar case brought by more than two dozen Christian and Jewish groups representing millions of Americans. District Judge Dabney Friedrich in Washington, D.C., argued that drops in church attendance could not be definitively linked to ICE actions, and congregants were likely staying home to avoid ICE anywhere in their own neighborhoods rather than places of worship. As people of faith, we cannot abide losing the basic right to provide care and compassion, said Bishop Brenda Bos with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Americas California synod, among the plaintiffs in the latest legal battle. Not only are our spaces no longer guaranteed safety, but our worship services, educational events and social services have all been harmed by the rescission of sensitive space protection, Bos added. Our call is love our neighbor, and we have been denied the ability to live out that call. Homeland Security assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the administration is protecting places of worship by preventing criminal aliens and gang members from exploiting these locations and taking safe haven there because these criminals knew law enforcement couldnt go inside under the Biden Administration. open image in gallery Christian leadership across the country is grappling with ICEs stepped-up arrests and Trumps wider anti-immigration agenda ( Getty ) The lawsuit arrives as Christian leadership across the country and at the Vatican grapples with the consequences of the Trump administrations aggressive anti-immigration policy. With a directive from the White House to make at least 3,000 daily arrests, ICE received record-breaking funding from Congress expanding the agencys budget to be larger than most countries militaries to hire more officers and expand detention space. Miamis Archbishop Thomas Wenski condemned public officials rhetoric praising Alligator Alcatraz, and San Bernardino Bishop Alberto Rojas in California also issued a rare decree this month excusing parishioners from attending mass over genuine fear of immigration raids. Pope Leo XIV, who is American-born and whose papacy began less than four months into Trumps presidency, had previously criticized the administrations immigration policies and rhetoric. Washington, D.C. Cardinal Robert McElroy has also criticized the administrations agenda of mass, indiscriminate deportation of men and women and children and families which literally rips families apart and is intended to do so. In Los Angeles, the largest archdiocese in the country, Archbishop Jose Gomez accused the administration of having no immigration policy beyond the stated goal of deporting thousands of people each day. This is not policy, it is punishment, and it can only result in cruel and arbitrary outcomes, wrote the bishop, who is also a naturalized U.S. citizen from Mexico. Already we are hearing stories of innocent fathers and mothers being wrongly deported, with no recourse to appeal. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Louisiana Republican Senator John Kennedy advocates for idiot control instead of gun control after a gunman killed four in a Manhattan skyscraper a reaction that has infuriated some social media users. Shane Tamura, 27, killed three people inside a Midtown Manhattan office building Monday using an AR-15-style rifle. He then turned the weapon on himself. In the wake of the tragedy, the 73-year-old Louisiana Republican told Fox News Hannity on Monday evening that theres no need for additional gun control measures a response thats enraged social media users. He predicted that some of his colleagues will call for legislation around heightened gun control, which he suggested wasnt necessary. We have hundreds of gun control laws, Sean. Maybe thousands, the senator said. We dont need more gun control, we need more idiot control. And I dont know exactly how to do that but I do know this I dont want to hear anyone feeling sorry for this guy who did this. open image in gallery Rather than increased gun control measures, Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy calls for idiot control ( AP ) All you can do at a time like this is be sorry, Kennedy said. He said he was sorry for the NYPD officer and civilians who were killed as well as the people of New York. This is going to cause them to have to live in further fear, he said. I believe theres objective evil in this world and we saw it today, he added. Social media users slammed the senator for his comments. You cant control idiots, never will. Thats why gun control is the answer, one X user said. Keep lunatics from getting easy access any f****** weapon they want would be a good start, another blasted. Yet another quipped: You could try to implement policies to prevent idiots from getting guns. Kind of like gun control. Some made it personal. Maybe his constituents can start by electing him out of office, another wrote. One user suggested: Lets get rid of the idiots in office and vote some in who will try new policies and reduce the rhetoric that is sowing division. Thats the idiot control we need. Another succinctly remarked: He could start by controlling himself. open image in gallery Police and emergency vehicles surround the Midtown Manhattan skyscraper after a gunman entered and started spraying ammunition inside, killing four victims before turning the gun on himself ( AFP/Getty ) As the work day was coming to an end for many in Manhattan, Tamura walked into the corporate building at 345 Park Ave with a loaded assault rifle and began spraying ammunition inside the lobby, police said. The gunman is accused of killing three civilians, including Blackstone executive Wesley LePatner, and one NYPD officer: 36-year-old Didarul Islam. No words can describe this act of evil: a man who takes the life of others who are innocent. And no words can fill the void that has been left by this tragedy, New York City Mayor Eric Adams said at a press conference Monday. Several New York Democrats have since called for additional gun safety measures. Gun violence in this country is an epidemic, New York Rep. Jerry Nadler said in a social media post. The tragic loss of a brave police officer and innocent civilians is far too common. From Columbine to Sandy Hook, from the Tree of Life synagogue to the Pulse nightclub, from Charleston to todays shooting in Midtown Manhattan, we must put an end to the easy access to weapons of war that continue to take innocent lives. Senator Chuck Schumer remarked on X: Thank you to our brave first responders on the scene in Manhattan tonight. Im praying for everyone affected. We must do more to stop gun violence in America. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem took the opportunity to play dress-up again as she visited Argentina to sign a new visa-free travel agreement. Speaking to reporters alongside Argentinian officials at the Campo De Mayo military base, Noem sat astride a horse clad in a cowboy hat and belt, plus blue jeans and a black western-style jacket. She promised to "expedite" the easing of visa rules for citizens of the South American country, whose budget-slashing libertarian President Javier Milei is a major ally of President Donald Trump. It is the latest in a long series of sartorial stunts for the former South Dakota governor, who at various times has dressed as a plumber, a welder, a builder, a highway cop, a Border Patrol agent, a firefighter, a coast guard officer, and an ICE agent in tactical gear. The Old West appears to be a favorite touchstone, with Noem once asking her Instagram followers to vote on the best painting of her as a cowgirl even while Texas struggled with devastating floods. open image in gallery Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem tours the Campo De Mayo Military Base by horse in Buenos Aires province, Argentina ( AP ) In March, she posed in heavy make-up in front of caged prisoners at El Salvador's notorious CECOT prison, where Venezuelan immigrants sent there by the Trump administration say they were tortured, beaten, and raped. The photo ops, and her status as the face of the Trump administrations immigration policy, have led some critics to mockingly dub Noem "ICE Barbie" or "Homeland Barbie" with even city officials in flood-hit Texas reportedly adopting the term. open image in gallery Noem strikes a dance pose next to Argentina's security minister Patricia Bullrich (left), after watching a traditional dance performance ( AFP/Getty ) "Under President Javier Mileis leadership, Argentina is becoming an even stronger friend to the United States more committed than ever to border security for both of our nations," Noem said in a statement on Monday. "Argentina now has the lowest visa overstay rate in all of Latin America, and 25 percent more Argentines traveled to the U.S. in the first four months of this year compared to last year. "That is why we are now taking steps to allow Argentina back into the Visa Waiver Program, she said. open image in gallery If completed, the new agreement will allow Argentinian citizens to visit the U.S. for leisure purposes without applying for a visa ( Reuters ) Monday's agreement is simply a statement of intent and actually realizing visa-free travel to the U.S. or Argentinian nationals could take years yet. A post on Noem's Instagram and X feeds for National Cowboy Day on Saturday, showing her riding with horse-mounted border agents, attracted many supportive, even fawning responses. Other commenters were less impressed. "Wasting taxpayers money again on a photo op?" said one Instagram user. "Any excuse to put on a costume. What a joke," posted another. One user on X inquired about her wardrobe budget, while another branded her "all hat and no cattle". open image in gallery Noem is on a multi-day visit to Argentina, Chile, and Paraguay ( Getty ) Visa waivers allow citizens of friendly jurisdictions such as the U.K. and the European Union to visit the U.S. for leisure purposes for up to 90 days, without needing to apply for a visa first. Argentina joined the program in 1996, but was removed in 2002 due to fears that an ongoing economic crisis would drive more Argentinians to try to work in the U.S. illegally. The country has its own storied tradition of cowboys, known as gauchos, though they traditionally dress rather differently to their American counterparts, in patterned wool ponchos and voluminous trousers. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene is calling Israels war in Gaza a genocide, her post coming hours after President Donald Trump contradicted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said that there is no starvation in the war-torn region. The Georgia MAGA firebrand posted a response on X to Rep. Randy Fine (R-FL), who is Jewish and one of the most outspoken supporters of Israel in Congress, who has said that Gaza should Release the hostages. Until then, starve away. Fine added his opinion that the stark images and reports of starvation in Gaza is all a lie anyway. I can only imagine how Floridas 6th district feels now that their Representative, that they were told to vote for, openly calls for starving innocent people and children, MTG posted. Greene added that Fines comments would cause only more antisemitism. Its the most truthful and easiest thing to say that Oct 7th in Israel was horrific and all hostages must be returned, but so is the genocide, humanitarian crisis, and starvation happening in Gaza. But a Jewish U.S. Representative calling for the continued starvation of innocent people and children is disgraceful. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) made a rare break from GOP orthodoxy to call Israels war in Gaza a genocide. ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Greenes comments came after Trump, in a rare moment of disagreement with Netanyahu on Gaza, broke with the assessment of Israels prime minister. On Sunday, Netanyahu spoke at a Christian conference in Jerusalem, where he pushed back against accusations of starvation in Gaza. There is no policy of starvation in Gaza and there is no starvation in Gaza, Netanyahu insisted. But when meeting with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Trump said that Gaza had real starvation. I don't know. I mean, based on television, I would say not particularly because those children look very hungry, Trump said. Trump said that the United States would work with other countries to provide assistance to Gaza. At the same time, the Trump administration has sought to crack down on pro-Palestine demonstrators in the United States, such as when it arrested Columbia University graduate and activist Mahmoud Khalil and Tufts University doctoral student Rumeysa Ozturk. Alongside Israels onslaught on Gaza that it launched after Hamass deadly terrorist attack on October 7th, 2023, Gaza now risks an outright famine. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC, said on Tuesday that worst-case scenario of famine is currently playing out. One United Nations representative said that Palestinians are beginning to resemble walking corposes and children are emaciated, weak and at high risk of dying. This past weekend, Israel announced a humanitarian pause to let food and aid into Gaza. Gazas Health Ministry said that 60,000 Palestinians have died as a result of the war. Plenty of progressive Democrats have called Israels war in Gaza a genocide, such as Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), the first Palestinian-American congresswoman, as well as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). But Republicans, who largely support Israel because of evangelical Christian conservatives who believe that the creation of the state of Israel is an important part of End Times theology, remain supportive of the country. Last month, House Speaker Mike Johnson invited Netanyahu to Congress. At the same time, Greene had broken with Republicans and Trump on foreign policy, most recently on Trumps decision to strike nuclear facilities in Iran. In addition, earlier this month, she attempted to have a vote on cutting off aid to Israel, though all but six members two Republicans and four Democrats opposed it. She specifically criticized bombing of a Catholic church in Gaza. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The former president and prime minister of Russia brushed off Senator Lindsey Grahams demand to get to the peace table and end the war with Ukraine, saying neither he nor President Donald Trump could stop Russia from its military objectives. Dmitry Medvedev, a high-ranking Russian official who currently serves as deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, snarkily responded to Graham on X on Monday after the South Carolina senator echoed Trumps request for Russia to negotiate to end the war. To those in Russia who believe that President Trump is not serious about ending the bloodbath between Russia and Ukraine: You and your customers will soon be sadly mistaken. You will also soon see that Joe Biden is no longer president, Graham told Medvedev. Get to the peace table. But Medvedev waved off Grahams threat, insisting, Its not for you or Trump to dictate when to get at the peace table. Negotiations will end when all the objectives of our military operation have been achieved. Work on America first, gramps! Medvedev said. open image in gallery Dmitry Medvedev, a high-ranking Russian official, brushed off Senator Lindsey Graham after he echoed Trumps demands for Russia to go to the peace table ( Getty Images ) The exchange between Medvedev and Graham occurred on the same day that Trump warned Russian President Vladimir Putin that he had 10 to 12 days to make progress on a peace deal to stop the war with Ukraine, or Russia would face severe tariffs. Russia invaded Ukraine more than three years ago, and since then, the two countries have been battling. Ukraine has relied heavily on support from allies, including the U.S., to fight Russia. Trump had initially opposed providing Ukraine with financial, humanitarian, and military aid. He heavily campaigned on the idea that he could end the war between Russia and Ukraine swiftly. However, its proven difficult for the U.S. president. Earlier this month, Trump said he would give Putin 50 days to strike a deal. However, he shortened that timeframe on Monday while expressing some frustration with Putins lack of effort in striking a ceasefire. open image in gallery Medvedev warned Trump that giving Russia an ultimatum would lead to war between Russia and the US ( SPUTNIK/AFP via Getty Images ) Hours later, Medvedev took to X to warn Trump that playing the ultimatum game with Russia would lead to war between Russia and the United States. Thats when Graham stepped in to demand Russia begin peace negotiations. The Independent has asked Grahams office for comment. From Medvedevs response, it appeared Russia is in no hurry to stop the fighting in Ukraine. That was all but formally confirmed on Monday evening after Russia bombarded Ukraine with a series of missiles. At least 22 people were killed as part of the Russian strikes, which targeted a Ukrainian prison camp and a Ukrainian hospital. At least one of those people killed was a pregnant woman, the Washington Post reported. Should Russia fail to come to the peace table talks, Trump could impose hefty sanctions which would be on top of the sanctions the U.S. has already imposed on Russia. Graham, who has largely supported the U.S. sending aid to Ukraine, has co-sponsored bipartisan legislation that would impose a 500 percent tariff on imported goods from countries that purchase Russian oil, gas, uranium, and other products. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trumps administration has cut more than half of all federal funding for gun violence prevention programs, according to a new report. The Justice Department slashed 69 community violence intervention grants in April, ending more than $158 million in funding, Reuters reports. These grants were directed to several cities throughout the U.S., including Baltimore, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and Washington, D.C. The grants helped fund several programs that work to prevent gun violence. These included training outreach teams to de-escalate conflict, social workers to connect people with key services, and programs for hospitalized gun violence victims, Reuters reports. These cuts are preventing some community organizations from doing the work in service of those that need it the most at the most urgent, and deadliest time of the year, Michael-Sean Spence, managing director of community safety initiatives at Everytown for Gun Safety, told Reuters Last year, the U.S. Surgeon General declared gun violence a public health crisis. open image in gallery The Justice Department building in Washington, D.C. The agency has cut more than half of all federal funding for gun violence prevention programs, a new report reveals ( Getty Images ) More than 44,000 people died from firearm-related injuries in the U.S. in 2024, according to new provisional CDC data reviewed by The Trace, a media outlet dedicated to reporting on gun violence. This is is down from 2023, during which more than 47,000 people died of gun-related injuries in the U.S. These community violence intervention grant cuts were part of a broader rollback. The Justice Departments Office of Justice Programs terminated a total of 365 grants in April, slashing more than $811 million in funding for public safety and victim justice programs, Reuters reports. Smaller cities in the southern U.S. have also been impacted by the cuts. Cities like Memphis and Baton Rouge were more reliant on these federal grants due to limited state support, according to Reuters. "Very few state legislatures are passing funding right now, that's why the federal cuts were such a tragic hit," Amber Goodwin, co-founder of Community Violence Legal Network, told Reuters. Eighteen law enforcement groups and police chiefs from Louisville, Minneapolis, Omaha and Tucson are also speaking out. The group has asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to reinstate funding that created measurable and significant reductions in violence and homicides, Reuters reports. "These aren't feel-good programs; theyre lifesaving, law-enforcement-enhancing strategies that work," the group wrote. open image in gallery Eighteen law enforcement groups and four police chiefs have written to Attorney General Pam Bondi asking her to reverse cuts to gun violence prevention funding ( AFP via Getty Images ) A Justice Department official told Reuters the grants were cut because they no longer effectuate the programs goals or agencys priorities. Thousands of grants at the office are under review, the official noted. The Independent has contacted the Justice Department for comment. More than half the reported gun homicides in the U.S. happened in just 42 cities, according to an analysis of 2023 data by Everytown for Gun Safety. The list includes all of the major U.S. cities which were impacted by the April funding cuts. New York saw yet another shooting on Monday, when a gunman targeted a Manhattan skyscraper. Shane Tamura, 27, stormed the office building at 345 Park Avenue shortly before 6:30 p.m., spraying the lobby with bullets from an AR-15-style rifle, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. Four people are dead, including a New York City Police Department officer and an executive at Blackstone. Chicago residents grieved earlier this month after a gunman carried out a mass shooting outside a nightclub, killing four people and injuring 14 more. A shooting in Washington, D.C. also made national headlines in June after a group of gunmen fatally shot Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a 21-year-old Congressional intern. Police said he was hit by a stray bullet and not the intended target. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Federal workers should not face any punishment for trying to convince colleagues of the correctness of their personal religion, according to a new set of policies from the Trump administration. During a break, an employee may engage another in polite discussion of why his faith is correct and why the non-adherent should re-think his religious beliefs, reads one portion of the administrations memo. However, if the nonadherent requests such attempts to stop, the employee should honor the request. The memo, issued Monday by the Office of Personnel Management, comes as the White House has made a priority of promoting religious faith and stamping out what it sees as anti-Christian bias. The policy, first reported by Fox News, details a variety of other permitted religious expressions for federal workers, including keeping holy books or religious instruments such as rosary beads at their desks, wearing clothing with religious messages or symbols, and inviting colleagues to religious services on personal bulletin boards. The memo also detailed other possible examples of allowed conduct including a park ranger joining her tour group in a prayer or a Veterans Affairs doctor praying over a patient. Trump has made promoting religious faith a key part of his agenda and a new policy for federal workers allows staffers to try to proselytize at work ( White House ) Trump, who claims to be a Christian, with strong support among evangelicals, has made promoting religious faith a key part of his agenda. Trump-branded Bibles were sold while on the campaign trail. Once he took office, Trump created a task force in February to root out what he said was anti-Christian bias in the government and beyond. During remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast laying out the idea for the effort, the president cited the example of Paulette Harlow, whom he described as having been arrested for praying outside an abortion clinic. Harlow, who Trump pardoned along with other anti-abortion activists, was part of a group of 10 who conspired to make a fake appointment at a Washington abortion clinic in 2020, then forcefully entered the clinic and set about blockading two clinic doors using their bodies, furniture, chains, and ropes, according to the Justice Department at the time. It resulted in an injury to a clinic nurse and forced a patient to climb through a receptionists window, while another laid in the hallway outside of the clinic in physical distress, unable to gain access to the clinic, prosecutors said. Protecting religious liberty and stopping faith-based discrimination has also been a key theme in the Trump administrations efforts to crack down on top university campuses, which the White House has accused of tolerating antisemitism during protests over the Israel-Hamas war. In many cases the administration has sought changes beyond reforms to religious protections at these Ivy League schools, pushing for changes including ending diversity hiring and conducting viewpoint diversity audits of campus faculty and students. The presidents actions on immigration have provoked consistent criticism from Catholic Church leaders and charities. Faith-based agencies are among the main providers of the now dramatically curtailed refugee resettlement effort in the U.S. and the Catholic Church has a large following within Latino immigrant communities. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Over the course of a decade, Ghislaine Maxwell facilitated and participated in the sexual abuse of multiple young girls alongside her partner Jeffrey Epstein while enjoying a life of extraordinary luxury and privilege, according to federal prosecutors. From 1994 to 2004, Maxwell and Epstein worked together to groom young girls some as young as 14 years old and enticed them to travel to Epsteins properties, prosecutors said. During a monthlong trial in 2021, survivors testified in federal court in Manhattan that Maxwell had groomed them, took their passports, and sexually abused them. Four victims testified. Prosecutors argued she had lured them into a false sense of security by presenting as a glamorous, older woman who normalized a culture of abuse and silence that shrouded her and Epstein, according to a sentencing memorandum. The federal judge overseeing the case said Maxwell played a pivotal role in their abuse. Four years later, President Donald Trump has, notably, nothing negative to say about the case against a woman he knows, the accusations against her, or the jurys verdict. The president whose years-long relationship with Epstein and revived allegations of abuse involving the convicted sex offender are under intense public scrutiny has not ruled out pardoning Maxwell. open image in gallery Trump hasnt ruled out a pardon for his former associate Ghislaine Maxwell, whose testimony about Epstein is a welcome distraction for the president ( NY Daily News/Getty ) Maxwell, who is now 63, is not scheduled to be released from prison until 2040. She appealed her conviction to the Supreme Court, which the Department of Justice opposes. Her best chance of early release is a presidential pardon, and legal experts warn that his public statements suggesting that a pardon is even remotely on the table could encourage Maxwell to do anything she can to secure one. Her attorney David Markus said she would welcome one. Its unclear whether anyone involved with Maxwells case from Justice Department interviews to the presidents public musings on a potential pardon have considered the impacts to her victims. Former Justice Department pardon attorney Liz Oyer says those discussions have been shockingly overlooked. Nobody is talking about how the victims may feel even by these discussions being had, she told All Rise. Teresa Helm, who had testified against Maxwell, told MSNBC the consequences of a pardon would mean the complete crumbling of this justice system that should first and foremost stand for, fight for and protect survivors. Pardoning Maxwell would be extremely problematic and would be a huge loss for individuals like myself, witness and Epstein accuser Annie Farmer told the BBC. On August 11, Maxwell is scheduled to sit for a jailhouse deposition sought by the GOP-led House Oversight Committee. In a letter to the committee, her attorneys have asked for some immunity protections and made another appeal to Trump for clemency. If Ms. Maxwell were to receive clemency, she would be willing and eager to testify openly and honestly, in public, before Congress in Washington, D.C., according to the letter, Maxwells legal team provided to The Independent. She welcomes the opportunity to share the truth and to dispel the many misconceptions and misstatements that have plagued this case from the beginning. Her attorneys insist she did not receive a fair trial, which served as a scapegoat after Epsteins death. The Independent has requested comment from Maxwells attorneys. open image in gallery Maxwells attorney David Markus told House lawmakers that Maxwell will testify openly and honestly if she is granted clemency from the president ( AP ) A central question is whether she is telling the truth. Trumps own Justice Department in 2020 said she brazenly lied under oath. The judge who oversaw her federal criminal case said she failed to show any acceptance of responsibility for her actions. Oyer told CBS News that Maxwell is likely desperate to get out from under that sentence, adding that its hard to really believe that the Justice Department would rely on anything that she might have to say. She has a live criminal appeal. It doesn't make sense that she'd jeopardize it unless she gets some kind of immunity, wrote journalist Jacob Shamsian, who extensively covered Maxwells cases. And if she does, how can you trust her? She has every incentive in the world to get out of her 20-year sentence. Democratic Senators Dick Durbin and Sheldon Whitehouse have sought a public commitment that the Justice Department will not advocate for a pardon or commute Maxwells sentence. The senators called it highly unusual for deputy attorney general Todd Blanche Trumps former criminal defense attorney to interview Maxwell, rather than the prosecutors who are familiar with the case. The Trump administration fired Maurene Comey, one of the prosecutors who successfully brought the case against Maxwell, and who questioned witnesses and abuse survivors who testified against her. Durbin and Whitehouse warned that her documented record of lying and her desire to secure early release may lead her to provide false information or selectively withhold information in return for a pardon or sentence commutation. open image in gallery The cases of Epstein and Maxwell are enmeshed in years-long conspiracy theories alleging a deep state sexual abuse coverup implicating Democratic officials ( AFP/Getty ) When charges were first announced in July 2020, Trump whose friendship with Epstein spanned roughly the same time period at the center of Maxwells case claimed that he wasnt following the case but said I wish her well. I just wish her well, frankly, he told reporters at the White House at the time. Ive met her numerous times over the years, especially since I lived in Palm Beach and I guess they lived in Palm Beach. But I wish her well, whatever it is. Last week, when asked whether he was considering pardoning her in exchange for her cooperation in the Epstein investigation, Trump said he was allowed to do it. Later, he said he cant talk about pardons while Blanche continues to speak with Maxwell. On Saturday, he said it was no time to be talking about pardons, and on Monday, he stressed that he was allowed to pardon Maxwell, but nobody has approached me with it. open image in gallery Maxwell was convicted of sex trafficking minors, among other crimes, in a years-long scheme with Epstein to groom and abuse young girls ( US District Court for the Southern District of New York ) Maxwells trial was largely seen as the public reckoning against Epstein that the convicted sex offender never received. Epstein died in his jail cell in 2019 following his arrest before his own trial on sex trafficking charges. Ms. Maxwell is not punished in place of Epstein, New York District Judge Alison Nathan said at her sentencing hearing in 2022. Ms. Maxwell is being punished for the role that she played. Nathan called Maxwells conduct heinous and predatory, and the 20-year prison sentence imposed on her was intended to acknowledge the harm that Ms. Maxwell has caused. The cases were also enmeshed in wider conspiracy theories amplified by the president and his allies that powerful Democratic figures are trafficking children, claims at the center of so-called Pizzagate and QAnon communities that infected wider Republican politics. But the Trump administrations failure to release so-called files surrounding the Epstein case, which critics had hoped to reveal public figures who exploited and abused young girls while, has fueled allegations that the president is participating in a cover up. After handing binders of mostly previously released evidence in the Epstein case to far-right influencers in February, Bondi reportedly told Trump his name appeared in unreleased files. The Justice Department had reportedly worked around clock to clear 100,000 files connected to the case for public release but never released them. Elon Musk who earlier this year tossed what he called a bomb into his falling out with Trump by accusing the president of being in the files has amplified allegations that Maxwell intends to implicate Democratic officials in the investigation. The idea goes: spurious evidence presented by Maxwell would reaffirm the presidents claims he did nothing wrong during his relationship with Epstein while a guilty Trump reaps praise from his base for taking down pedophiles. On his X account, Musk responded to a viral post detailing the allegations with a bullseye emoji. Any revelations from Maxwells testimony with the help of Trump, who is desperate to change the conversation, could generate a generate a storm of distractions. A pardon quid pro quo would risk political blowback for Trump and his enablers while adding more fuel to allegations of a cover up. Inflaming the tension is a report from The Wall Street Journal that accused the president of writing a bawdy birthday card to Epstein in 2003, which allegedly included several lines of typewritten text framed by the outline of a naked woman, with a birthday wish that may every day be another wonderful secret. Trump has denied ever writing such a note and sued the newspaper, its publishers and the journalists whose bylines appeared on the story for $10 billion. The person who could speak to the authenticity of that message and allegations against Trump is Maxwell, who allegedly asked for birthday greetings from Epsteins friends and put them together in a book for him. During a two-day interview with Blanche, Maxwell answered questions about about 100 different people with potential ties to the Epstein ring, according to her attorney. In exchange, Maxwell was offered a limited form of immunity that would prevent prosecutors from using statements against her in a criminal case. Following her interview with Blanche, Markus said she answered all of the questions truthfully, honestly and to the best of her ability. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Vice President J.D. Vance hit the campaign trail in Ohio on Monday, as he sought to help his boss and the GOP that is lined up behind him sell the big, beautiful budget reconciliation package to midterm voters. Instead, the presidents Twitter-happy running mate found himself answering questions about Jeffrey Epstein and in a generally unfamiliar role: battling speculation on the right instead of fueling it. The vice president, who less than three weeks before the 2024 election declared that we should release the Epstein list, has a new message, as his colleagues now insist that the list isnt real: Donald J. Trump, I'm telling you, he's got nothing to hide. Vance was in a Democratic-held district in Canton, Ohio about three hours north of his hometown of Middletown on Monday as the president and his party try and turn their focus towards next years midterms. But theyre the only ones whose attention has shifted DCs focus remains firmly on Jeffrey Epstein and the growing uproar around the White Houses handling of the so-called client list or Epstein files. And if Mondays road trip is any indicator, so has much of Americas. open image in gallery JD Vance tours a steel plant during a campaign stop in Canton, Ohio on Monday ( Getty Images ) After he concluded his remarks, the vice president hosted a press conference in front of his supporters, who watched up close as Vance evolved from conspiracy theorist to spin doctor in real time. The president has directed the attorney general to release all credible information and, frankly, to go and find additional credible information related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. Hes been incredibly transparent about that stuff, but some of that stuff takes time, said Vance, who went on to accuse the media of being uninterested in the story during the Biden administration. There are a few problems here. For one, that it isnt true. Vances reference to Trump directing Attorney General Pam Bondi to release all credible information is just a flat-out falsehood. The Justice Department stated explicitly and continues to state that it wont release further documents from its own trove at all. The FBI and DOJs joint memo was pretty clear: we found no basis to revisit the disclosure of those materials. What Bondi did authorize was a motion in court seeking for a judge to allow the release of grand jury transcripts to the public. Her agency made no attempts to justify the motion beyond satisfying public speculation, and it was denied a foregone conclusion for a strategy that DOJ attorneys acknowledged in their own filings was a long shot. Republican leadership, meanwhile, is talking out of both sides of its mouth. Speaker Mike Johnson, remarking Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press, positioned himself as pro-transparency while simultaneously coming out against a bipartisan resolution to force the Justice Department to release the files, with redactions for victim information and examples of pornography. Its also unclear what Vance meant when he said that the administrations efforts to make this story go away would take time. Bondis motion is already denied; shes made no indication that her efforts to see grand jury transcripts released will continue. Those transcripts likely also hardly scratch the surface of all credible information the government has on the subject of Epstein. The Justice Department explained in July that further files from the investigation would not be released. The agency also declared that a list of the convicted pedophiles alleged co-conspirators did not exist, and that investigators "did not uncover evidence that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties." So what is the administration actually still doing? Unclear. Vance wouldnt say. But he was clear on one thing: theyre doing it! open image in gallery The Epstein scandal continues to divide Trumps MAGA base like no issue before it ( AFP via Getty Images ) Donald J. Trump is asking his Department of Justice to show full transparency, and somehow thats a criticism of Donald J. Trump and not Barack Obama and George W. Bush, Vance griped on Monday. Having now passed the mammoth reconciliation package, the Republican Party is mindful of one political reality: that even with Trumps success in bullying backbenchers into line, the GOP has used up the bulk of its political capital. The chances of passing another piece of legislation through the Senate are slim, given the number of Democrats the party would need on their side to break a filibuster. Even a second reconciliation package seems off the table given the level of deficit spending Republicans budget hawks just had to swallow the first time around. But the vice president and the rest of his party are in a tough spot. Aside from an extension of existing tax cuts, the main provision of the big, beautiful bill was a massive surge in funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement a tricky sell for the Republican Party given that polling on the issue of immigration is quickly turning against the president thanks to highly public raids on farms and other businesses. Funding that provision and the extension of the tax cuts is the largest cut to Medicaid spending in history, driven by new work requirements expected to lead many to lose their coverage. Those Medicaid cuts are Democrats favorite topic when discussing the second-term Trump agenda. Vance, as a result, is stuck arguing the nuts and bolts, pushing the GOP line that Democrats opposed extending tax cuts during an affordability crisis. Attacking Rep. Emilia Sykes, whose district he visited, Vance said on Monday: You know why shes not here today? Because shes not celebrating no taxes on tips. Shes not celebrating no taxes on overtimeshe fought us every step of the way. As he spoke, however, Epstein Island was the No. 1 trending term on Twitter/X, thanks to Trumps awkward quip Monday morning that he never had the privilege of visiting the island where many of Epsteins crimes involving underaged girls were alleged to have taken place. Its hard to say yet how much the Epstein issue will affect the midterms if at all. But with Donald Trump personally making the situation worse by throwing things against the wall to see what sticks, it will likely be up to Vance and the presidents other allies to help dig him out of this hole. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Polish-Colombian couple, Magdalena Kujawinska and Heinner Valenzuela, travelled to Copenhagen to marry, circumventing complex bureaucracy at home in Poland. Living in Krakow, the couple had been engaged for over three years but faced significant hurdles. "We realised that its not that easy to get married in Poland," the 30-year-old Ms Kujawinska said, citing the requirement for a certificate proving they were not already married. A certificate, needed from Colombia, presented an insurmountable challenge due to its three-month validity. "We tried to get it from Colombia, but its only valid for three months, and it couldnt get to Poland from Colombia in three months. It was just impossible for us," she added. Learning about Denmark's relaxed marriage laws from a colleague, Ms Kujawinska and her fiance engaged an online wedding planner. The process proved remarkably swift, with approval granted in just four days. "And in four days, we had the decision that the marriage could be done here," a smiling Ms Kujawinska recounted as they awaited their 10-minute ceremony at Copenhagen's 19th-century City Hall. Copenhagen attracts couples from around the world open image in gallery Newlyweds Magdalena Kujawinska, right, from Poland and Heinner Valenzuela from Colombia pose for photos at the Copenhagen City Hall in Copenhagen, Denmark ( Associated Press/James Brooks ) Couples who don't live in Denmark, both mixed- and same-sex, are increasingly getting married in the Scandinavian country prompting some to dub Copenhagen the Las Vegas of Europe. The head of the marriage office at Copenhagen City Hall, Anita Okkels Birk Thomsen, said that about 8,000 wedding ceremonies were performed there last year. Of those, some 5,400 of them were for couples in which neither partner was a Danish resident. Thats almost double what we saw five years ago, she said. They come from all over the world. City wants to ensure room for locals But the city sees a downside to that: demand for ceremonies at City Hall now far exceeds the number of slots available. Mia Nyegaard, the Copenhagen official in charge of culture and leisure, said in a statement to The Associated Press that the significant rise in the number of foreign couples getting married in the capital poses challenges for Copenhagen-based couples wishing to get married. Local authorities plan to take action. Nyegaard said about 40 percent of wedding slots available at City Hall will be reserved for Copenhagen residents starting from the end of October. While booking a slot there is the most obvious way to get married in the city, arranging a ceremony with a private registrar is also an option, and that won't be affected. Copenhagen lawmakers will look after the summer break at what else they can do to relieve overall pressure on wedding capacity in the city. Liberal laws open image in gallery People gather in front of the Copenhagen City Hall in Copenhagen, Denmark ( Associated Press ) Denmark's marriage laws are liberal in several ways. In 1989, the country became the world's first to allow the registration of same-sex civil unions. The legalisation of same-sex marriage followed in 2012. For unions of all kinds, Denmark unlike many other European countries doesn't require a birth certificate or proof of single status to obtain a certificate that grants the right to get married in Denmark within four months. Officials might, in cases where divorce papers don't show clearly that a divorce has been finalised, ask for a civil status certificate. Applications to Denmark's agency of family law cost 2,100 kroner ($326), and couples are issued with a certificate within five working days if they satisfy the requirements. Non-resident couples can travel to Denmark and get married with just a valid passport and, if required, a tourist visa. We get that thing like, Are you sure we do not need a birth certificate? And we go, Yes, said Rasmus Clarck Srensen, director of Getting Married in Denmark. Clarck Srensen, a Dane, began the wedding planning business with his British wife back in 2014. In the last 20, 30 years, people just meet more across borders," he said. Marriage rules are often made for two people of the same country getting married. They kind of piled on patches onto marriage law, and a lot of people get trapped in those patches, he added. His online companys Complete Service package, priced at 875 euros ($1,014), includes help gathering all the necessary documents, processing the certificate application and organising the date of the ceremony. The business says it helped over 2,600 couples last year. Copenhagen, easily Denmark's biggest city with the country's best transport links, is the most popular location and so far appears to be the only one struggling with demand. Any changes to the city's rules will come too late to bother newlyweds Kujawinska and Valenzuela, who are now busy planning a celebration in Poland with family and friends. It means a lot for us because weve been waiting a lot for this, Kujawinska said. Were really happy. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Pope Leo XIV received a "rock star's welcome" at the Vatican's festival for Catholic influencers on Tuesday. At the event, the pope urged attendees to ensure human relations do not suffer amidst the spread of digital ecosystems and artificial intelligence. The gathering brought together priests, nuns, and ordinary faithful who utilise their social media presence to preach and teach the faith. History's first American pontiff was mobbed by hundreds of these influencers, their mobile phones hoisted high to stream the encounter, upon his arrival in St Peter's Basilica after a special Mass. These pilgrims have descended on Rome for a special Holy Year celebration of so-called "digital missionaries", forming part of the Vaticans week-long Jubilee for young people, which culminates this weekend with a vigil and Mass in a vast field on Romes outskirts. Leo thanked the young people for using their digital platforms to spread the faith, and he gamely posed for selfies. But he warned them about neglecting human relationships in their pursuit of clicks and followers, and cautioned them to not fall prey to fake news and the frivolity of online encounters. It is not simply a matter of generating content, but of creating an encounter between hearts, Leo said in a speech that showed his ease switching from Italian to Spanish to English. Be agents of communion, capable of breaking down the logic of division and polarization, of individualism and egocentrism. It is up to us to each one of you to ensure that this culture remains human, he said. Our mission your mission is to nurture a culture of Christian humanism, and to do so together in what he called the only networks that really matter: of friendship, love and the network of God. Warnings against going off-message For the past two days, the Vaticans message to the young influencers has been one of thanks for their social media evangelizing, but also a warning to not allow their posting to go off-message or to neglect the human dimension of all encounters. For Leo, the issue is particularly heartfelt since he has said that addressing the threat to humanity posed by AI will be a priority of his pontificate. The Rev. David McCallum, an American Jesuit who heads a leadership development program and presented Monday, held periodic breaks with instructions for those in the audience to actually speak with the person next to them, for up to 10 minutes at a time. Cardinal Antonio Tagle, the head of the Vaticans evangelization office, urged the influencers to avoid anything that smacks of false advertising, coercion or brainwashing in their posting, or to use their platform to make money. He noted that he himself had been victim of a fake video advertising arthritis medicine. Brothers and sisters, be discerning, Tagle told the influencers in his homily at Tuesdays Mass. A mini World Youth Day in Rome Tuesday began with groups of influencers and young pilgrims passing through the basilicas Holy Door, a rite of passage for the estimated 32 million people participating in the Vaticans 2025 Holy Year celebrations. This week, downtown Rome swarmed with energetic masses of teenage Catholic scouts, church and Catholic school groups. It all had the vibe of a scaled-down World Youth Day, the once-every-three-year Catholic Woodstock festival that was inaugurated by St. John Paul II. The most recent one in Lisbon, Portugal went viral thanks to the Rev. Guilherme Peixoto, a village priest in northern Portugal who also happens to be a DJ. Hes in Rome this week, though its not clear if he will reprise his now-famous set that woke the young people up before Pope Francis final Mass in Lisbon. In it, he spliced into the set both St. John Paul IIs exhortation to young people to be not afraid and Francis appeal in Lisbon that the church has room for everyone, todos, todos, todos. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Spain has unveiled plans to grant both mothers and fathers an additional week of paid leave after a baby, extending one of Europe's most generous parental allowances to 17 weeks. Notably, Spain and Finland are the only EU countries to offer equal, fully-paid birth leave to both parents. "Spain is moving towards feminism and equality ... and there will be no turning back. We are looking forward," Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz told a news conference. "Four out of ten men in our country now take parental leave. And this is a feminist achievement." open image in gallery Mothers and fathers in Spain will now get 17 weeks full paid parental leave ( Getty Images ) The government also approved two additional weeks of paid leave, which can be taken until the child reaches the age of eight. The measure falls short of the 20 weeks' birth leave pledged by the ruling Socialist Party and its far-left junior coalition partner Sumar - which Diaz heads - during the 2023 election campaign. The scheme still needs the formal approval of parliament. Hard-left party Podemos, one of the several groups whose votes are needed to pass legislation, has been pushing for more time. Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's minority government faces challenges securing sufficient votes to pass laws as it balances separate negotiations with various political factions. Diaz said parliamentary groups had "responded well" to the initiative. Several countries, such as Croatia, Ireland and Bulgaria, offer longer maternity leaves than Spain, but are less generous to fathers. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A zoo has said it killed 12 baboons on Tuesday because it didnt have enough space for them. The zoo, based in the German city of Nuremberg, said it killed the animals despite growing protests,. The Tiergarten Nurnberg Zoo first announced plans to kill baboons it didn't have space for in February 2024. It has said that it examined offers to take in some of the animals but was unable to make any of them work. The plans drew criticism from animal rights groups. They also drew protests at the zoo, which said on Monday that it would have to start preparing to kill baboons. On Tuesday morning, it announced that it was closing for the day for unspecified "operational reasons. On Tuesday afternoon, police said several activists forced their way into the grounds, a few of them gluing themselves to the ground before being detained. open image in gallery Several activists forced their way into the grounds of the zoo ( Daniel Loeb/dpa via AP ) Shortly afterward, the zoo said it had killed 12 baboons, German news agency dpa reported. Further details werent immediately available. Animal rights groups said they planned to file a criminal complaint. The zoo's population of Guinea baboons had grown to 43 and was too big for a house built in the late 2000s for 25 animals plus their young, leading to more conflicts among the animals. The zoo has said it did take steps in the past to address the issue, with 16 baboons moving to zoos in Paris and China since 2011. But those zoos, and another in Spain to which baboons were previously sent, had reached their own capacities. An attempt at contraception was abandoned several years ago after failing to produce the desired results. Animals are regularly euthanized in European zoos for a variety of reasons. Some past cases have caused an outcry; for example, one in 2014 in which Copenhagen Zoo killed a healthy two-year-old giraffe, butchered its carcass in front of a crowd that included children and then fed it to lions. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The UK is set to join Jordan and the United Arab Emirates in airdropping aid into Gaza as starvation and malnutrition have reached perilous levels in the war-torn strip. Following pressure from the international community, Israel has announced brief humanitarian pauses between 10am and 8pm each day to allow more aid to be delivered to starving Palestinians, as US president Donald Trump said on Monday: They have to get food and safety right now. The World Health Organisation has warned that malnutrition is on a dangerous trajectory in the Gaza Strip, with 63 deaths in July. Around one in five small children in Gaza City are now acutely malnourished, according to the UNs Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA). Airdropping is a controversial method of aid distribution, as humanitarian organisations have cited a number of safety and efficiency issues. Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) operations manager Jacob Burns called it humanitarian theatre, adding its absolutely not the only way to get aid into Gaza. For the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), airdrops really are a last resort, spokesperson Sarah Davies told The Independent, as the method comes with its own set of challenges. Heres all you need to know about the controversial aid distribution method. open image in gallery Starvation in the war-torn strip has reached a critical point ( Reuters ) What is airdropping? Airdropping is usually reserved for instances when it is hard to get aid to where it needs to go. It involves dropping food or non-food items into an area from an aeroplane. Usually they require a predetermined location, with staff on the ground who have cleared the area of other people, buildings, or anything that could be damaged or damage the goods themselves. The aid then needs to be distributed on the ground. The most efficient way to do this is through things like international organisations who are experienced in this, said Ms Davies. She added that the ICRC was not currently involved in the airdrops. We cant deliver assistance in a way that risks people or exposing them to harm. We work by assessing the needs throughout the areas of Gaza, where were present, and we respond directly to those needs. open image in gallery Five people died in an aiddrop that went wrong last year according to reports ( Reuters ) The dangers of airdropping In the densely populated Gaza Strip, airdropping faces a new challenge of distributing aid without causing harm to individuals. The primary danger of the airdrop is you cannot safely aim a pallet of aid, said Mr Burns. People have already been killed by aid drops in Gaza. Five people died in March last year after at least one parachute failed to deploy in an aid package airdrop, causing the parcel to fall on people, according to Gazas health ministry. As well as the spatial safety issues, the sheer desperation of citizens can put their lives at risk as they race to get to the food source first. If youre starving and suddenly you see food drop out of the sky, obviously youre going to run towards that aid and its a situation where the strongest will win, said Mr Burns. He added that separate to Israels claims that Hamas has been stealing aid, criminal gangs have used violence to loot aid and airdropping offers no further control over that problem. If youre just throwing aid randomly into the Gaza Strip, then you have no idea who can control that. open image in gallery Lorries are queuing to get into Gaza ( WAM/AFP via Getty Images ) How effectively does it distribute food? According to the ICRC, airdrops are a less efficient form of transporting aid than land transportation. Theyre really quite unsustainable, because they are very expensive, said Ms Davies, who explained that aeroplanes require fuelling and mechanical requirements that can make it a more expensive operation to supply quite limited amounts of items in a way that, unfortunately, we see doesnt always reach those who really need it. Mr Burns added that airdrops dont allow for as much aid to get in as land transportation would, as he called on Israel to let aid in in a flood rather than a trickle, which is what airdrops are. The ideal way of distributing aid The MSF worker then called for organised massive distributions of aid that can meet everyones needs. Land transportation, in which aid is brought into Gaza via trucks by humanitarian organisations, was named by the ICRC as a more effective approach to aid distribution because aid workers can bring in more supplies in a less time-consuming, resource-intensive way. The World Food Programme has said it has enough food to feed the entire population of 2.1 million people for almost three months. While we do welcome any decisions, any changes that mean that more aid reaches more people, we do reiterate that it needs to be done in a way where people are given dignified access to aid, said Ms Davies. Doing aid entry and aid distribution from land transportation allows international organisations who have experience of decades of work in Gaza, who have the trust of the communities in Gaza, to do so in this way. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Two top US officials visited aid distribution sites in Gaza on Friday, hailing the work of a controversial agency delivering food, after the UN said hundreds of Palestinians have died while seeking help. Ambassador Mike Huckabee joined Donald Trumps special envoy Steve Witkoff for a visit to an aid site in Rafah run by the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which took control of aid distribution in May. The pair are the first high-profile US officials to visit the enclave, which has been in the grip of a hunger crisis in recent weeks, since the war began. Mr Witkoff said the visit was part of a bid to put together a new US-backed aid plan for the war-shattered territory. open image in gallery White House special envoy Steve Witkoff, right, and US ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, left, visit a food distribution site run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation ( US Embassy Jerusalem ) Mr Witkoff said the purpose of the visit was to give Mr Trump a clear understanding of the humanitarian situation and help craft a plan to deliver food and medical aid to the people of Gaza. We received briefings from @IDF (Israeli Defence Forces) and spoke to folks on the ground, Mr Huckabee said on X following the visit. GHF delivers more than one million meals a day, an incredible feat! he added, echoing claims by the agency. But experts say that controversial distribution methods have contributed to hundreds of Palestinian deaths since the GHF took control of aid in May. At least 1,373 Palestinians have been killed while seeking aid, including 859 near GHF sites, mostly by the Israeli military, the UN Human Rights Office said on Thursday. Gazas health ministry said 91 had died in the past day alone. open image in gallery Palestinians carry bags of flour that they obtained from aid trucks which entered Gaza through the Zikim crossing point, in Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip ( AFP/Getty ) The UN says GHF aid distribution methods are inherently dangerous and violate humanitarian neutrality principles. In a report issued Friday, the New York-based Human Rights Watch said the GHF was at the heart of a flawed, militarised aid distribution system that has turned aid distributions into regular bloodbaths. The GHF contends that nobody has been killed at its distribution points and says it does a better job of protecting aid deliveries from looting than the UN. It has yet to respond to the Human Rights Watch report directly but in a statement on Friday marking the 100 million meals the GHF says it has delivered since May, it said: GHF remains the only reliable food aid system in Gaza, delivering millions of meals each day to aid seekers. Meanwhile, new data shows nearly 90 per cent of aid trucks for the UN and other humanitarian groups are being looted by military age men, with many civilians being injured and trampled. The Israeli military says it has only fired warning shots at people who approach its forces, and GHF says its armed contractors have only used pepper spray or fired warning shots to prevent deadly crowding. open image in gallery Witkoffs visit to Gaza was the first by a top White House official since the war began ( US Embassy Jerusalem ) Hours after the visit by Mr Witkoff and Mr Huckabee, Palestinian medics reported Israeli forces had shot dead three Gazans near a GHF site on the enclaves southern edge. It is unclear whether these deaths were at the same location visited by US officials. The Israeli military said it was still looking into the incident, in which it claimed soldiers had fired warning shots at what it described as a gathering of suspects approaching its troops, hundreds of yards from the aid site. GHF spokesperson Chapin Fay said: President Trump understands the stakes in Gaza and that feeding civilians, not Hamas, must be the priority. During a visit to Scotland earlier this week, Mr Trump announced a new aid plan which would involve the US setting up food centres in Gaza, but he is yet to reveal any details about the plan. Starvation in Gaza remains significant, and the chief of Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA, Philippe Lazzarini, said on Friday the UN has 6,000 trucks loaded with aid stuck outside Gaza waiting for the green light to enter, two days after he described the crisis as an entirely man-made famine. open image in gallery An aircraft airdrops humanitarian aid to Palestinians over Khan Younis, in the Gaza Strip ( AP ) On Friday, the Israeli military said that 200 trucks of aid were distributed by the UN and other organisations on Thursday, with hundreds more waiting to be picked up from the border crossings inside Gaza. Israel says Hamas and the UN are to blame for the failure of food to get to desperate Palestinians in Gaza. Germany made its first airdrops into Gaza on Friday, following in the footsteps of Jordan, the UAE and France. Mr Lazzarini said the airdrops are highly costly, insufficient and inefficient, adding that the only way to respond to the famine is to flood Gaza with assistance. In addition to the three Gazans shot near a GHF site, medics said at least 12 other Palestinians were killed in air strikes across the Gaza Strip on Friday. The Israeli military has not yet commented on the deaths. The war, which began after Hamas killed more than 1,200 people and took 251 hostage in an attack on southern Israel in October 2023, has now killed more than 60,000 Palestinians, according to Palestinian health authorities. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Prominent Palestinian activist and teacher Odeh Muhammad Hadalin was fatally shot by an Israeli settler on Monday in Umm al-Khair village, part of the Masafer Yatta region in the occupied West Bank, local officials said. The Palestinian Authoritys ministry of education confirmed that he was shot dead by settlers during an attack on the village of Umm al-Khair. Hadalin, 31, known widely for his advocacy against the displacement of Palestinians in Masafer Yatta, played a key role in supporting the production of No Other Land, the Oscar-winning documentary that captured the impact of Israeli military and settler violence on his community. Filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Basel Adra, who co-directed the documentary, also confirmed Hadalins killing. My dear friend Awdah was slaughtered this evening, Mr Adra posted on X. Odeh Muhammad Hadalins name was sometimes spelt as Awdah Muhammad Hathaleen. He was standing in front of the community centre in his village when a settler fired a bullet that pierced his chest and took his life, Mr Adra added. This is how Israel erases us one life at a time. Mr Abraham called Hadalin a remarkable activist who helped us film No Other Land in Masafer Yatta. He shared a video of the incident, adding that local residents identified Yinon Levi, sanctioned by the EU and US, as the shooter. The Independent could not verify the claim. The Times of Israel, citing local Hebrew media, reported that one of the Israelis involved in the clash was Yinon Levi. The outlet called him an extremist settler who was sanctioned by the US administration of Joe Biden, a measure revoked by Donald Trumps government. Israeli police said they were investigating an incident near Carmel, a settlement adjacent to the village of Umm al-Khair that Palestinians call Al-Karmil. In June, Israeli soldiers blocked journalists from travelling to the West Bank villages featured in No Other Land during a trip organised by Mr Abraham and Mr Adra, meant to show growing settler violence. Palestinian Authority and witnesses said that Hadalin was standing near a community centre when the settler opened fire. Hadalin sustained critical injuries to his upper body during the incident and later died at the Soroka Hospital in Beersheba. Four Palestinians and two foreigners present during the incident were detained, Al Jazeera reported. Another Palestinian man sustained injuries after he was reportedly assaulted by a settler and taken to a local hospital. According to the news site Ynet, Levi was carrying out construction work for a new neighbourhood in Al-Karmil when, by his account, dozens of people from Umm al-Khair began throwing stones at him and several other Israelis. Umm al-Khair lies within Masafer Yatta, a cluster of hamlets south of Hebron that Israel designated as a military training zone decades ago. Residents have since faced repeated demolitions and evictions. A Palestinian man walks next to a wall covered with sprayed Hebrew slogans following an Israeli settler attack in Taybeh near Ramallah, in occupied West Bank, on 28 July 2025 ( REUTERS ) The ongoing legal battle to protect their homes formed the backdrop of No Other Land, which resonated globally for its documentation of the communitys resilience. Hadalins killing coincides with growing settler violence in the West Bank. Israeli human rights group BTselem this week accused Israel of perpetrating genocide in Gaza and the West Bank. In its report, the group documented a sharp increase in settler attacks, ranging from arson and theft to armed assault, often carried out with what they described as state complicity. Since October 2023, when Israel launched a devastating war on Gaza, over 1,000 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank by Israeli soldiers and settlers, according to local health authorities. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Toddlers so thin they look otherworldly as they starve to death. Mothers too hungry to breastfeed them back to life. The injured from bombing too malnourished to heal. The medics, hooked up to drips themselves, too famished to even treat the hungry. This is Gaza, where a kilo of sugar costs $120 (90). Where civilians describe being shot and bombed by the Israeli military when they tried to get supplies from aid convoys. Where one father-of-four told me he ended up under a mound of bodies some alive, some injured, some dead when he went to get a single bag of flour from a World Food Programme truck two weekends ago. Flour that he had to abandon in the deadly scrum. It is unthinkable that in 2025, people babies born after this nightmare even began are dying from a famine made by an apparent ally. Nearly 150 people, including 88 children, have died from malnutrition, according to the Palestinian health ministry. And that number will go up unless there is proper intervention now. The solution is simple: we need a ceasefire, and for Israel to allow unfettered access of aid to the entire Gaza Strip. Anything less than that will not stop more people from dying. A real solution is not sporadic airdrops (which experts say are dangerous, inefficient and expensive). It is not temporary humanitarian corridors. It is not tactical pauses. It is not nebulous militarised aid schemes. It is not corralling civilians into blasted corners of this hell and rewarding them with a bag of pasta. open image in gallery Humanitarian aid is airdropped to Palestinians over Gaza City ( AP ) To treat a famine of this intensity, it needs a multidimensional humanitarian response on a massive scale. It needs specialised therapeutic food, medical intervention, it needs sustained access to supplies. Eventually, it will need Gazas agricultural sector, destroyed by Israel, to be rebuilt. And it will need those responsible for this to be held to account, so it does not happen again. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, echoing his own military bodies, proclaimed on Sunday that there is no policy of starvation in Gaza, and there is no starvation in Gaza, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. This is despite ferocious criticism from world leaders, including his closest allies like Donald Trump and Sir Keir Starmer, who are both supplying him with the weapons that allow him to do what his army is doing. Trump even said on Monday that it was real starvation in Gaza, adding, you cant fake that. It also contradicts what his own ministers have, at different points, admitted is the policy. On day two of this war, the then-defence minister Yoav Gallant spelt it out. I have ordered a complete siege on the Gaza Strip. There will be no electricity, no food, no fuel. Everything is closed, he said, an action which was cited in the International Criminal Court arrest warrant issued last November. We are fighting human animals, and we are acting accordingly, he added. Last August, extreme-right finance minister Bezalel Smotrich bemoaned that, No one in the world will allow us to starve two million people, even though it might be justified and moral in order to free the hostages. open image in gallery Naima Abu Ful with her two-year-old malnourished child, Yazan, at their home in the Shati refugee camp in Gaza City ( AP ) Just this week, national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called the recent airdrops of food into Gaza a shame and disgrace. I support starving Hamas in Gaza, he added on X, formerly Twitter, an action that is impossible to do without also starving the 2.3 million population and, of course, the remaining living hostages. The largest group representing the families of the hostages are in the streets begging for a ceasefire, so worried are they that their loved ones are also suffering these conditions. Israel has controlled what goes in and out of Gaza for a long time. As the occupying power, it has an obligation to ensure that the civilian population gets food and medical supplies. It has maintained a substantial and unlawful blockade on Gaza since the 2007 military takeover by Hamas, according to respected rights groups and legal scholars. This is in part why, well before this war erupted, medical officials repeatedly told me Gaza was already lacking half the essential drugs list. Since Hamass 7 October 2023 bloody attack on southern Israel during which Israel says militants killed over 1,200 people and took 250 captive Israel has tightened the noose strangling the 2.3 million-strong population. Respected groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have concluded that Israel is using hunger as a weapon of war, which is a war crime. Amnesty added in its report that its evidence shows Israels continued use of starvation is part of its ongoing genocide. Today, two respected Israeli rights groups, Physicians for Human Rights Israel and BTselem, released reports with legal-medical analysis accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, pointing to the decimation of the healthcare system and the strangling of aid. The Israeli government vehemently denies this, or that Israel has committed any crimes in Gaza. It has rejected claims that it has created famine or that there is even a hunger crisis at all. It maintains that it allows aid into the Strip and blames any restrictions on Hamas for allegedly systematically stealing aid (although recent leaks have contradicted that). Netanyahu today accused the United Nations of lying. But the overwhelming body of evidence and testimony points to a different reality. One that, for the sake of humanity, must change now. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The UK will recognise a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire and a two-state solution in Gaza, Sir Keir Starmer has vowed. The prime minister said Benjamin Netanyahus government must end its starvation tactics and allow the supply of aid into the embattled enclave after a UN-backed food security body said the worst-case scenario of famine was playing out in the territory. The announcement on Tuesday came after an emergency virtual cabinet meeting where Sir Keir laid out his plan for peace in the Middle East, agreed over the weekend with French president Emmanuel Macron and German chancellor Friedrich Merz. Sir Keir has come under mounting pressure from his own party to recognise a Palestinian state, which has only grown since Mr Macron announced Frances intention to do so by September. In addition, Britains foreign secretary David Lammy is attending a United Nations conference in New York on Tuesday to urge support for a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. open image in gallery With warnings that people in Gaza are facing starvation, growing numbers of Labour MPs want Keir Starmer to recognise a Palestinian state to put pressure on Israel ( Alamy/PA ) Here, The Independent asks experts about what the UK recognising Palestinian statehood would mean in practice. What would UK recognition of Palestine as a state mean? Dr Julie Norman, an associate professor at UCL specialising in Middle Eastern politics, said it looks likely that the UK will recognise Palestine as a state, which would mean voting for this at the United Nations but it would be unlikely the UN would be able to recognise Palestinian statehood due to the probability of the United States blocking the move. However, she said countries such as the UK and France voting for recognition at the UN would be a significant move. And she said the UK officially recognising Palestinian statehood would still be of value, even if the reality is that not much would change on the ground, with Israel still fully rejecting the prospect of recognition. open image in gallery Palestinian Authority president Mahmoud Abbas ( AP ) Speaking of British recognition, Dr Norman said: It would be a strong moral commitment and stance to Palestine at a moment when its never been more fraught in Gaza and the West Bank. In the short term, its a diplomatic stance, and it makes room for policy changes. And, if and when parties come back to discuss the long-term conflict, it would put Palestine in a better position. So it wouldnt change things immediately, but I would say it still has value. She added that the move might initially see more change in London than in Ramallah, a city in the central West Bank, which serves as the administrative capital of Palestine with, for example, the opening of an embassy in the UK capital. This would not mean recognition of Hamas. open image in gallery A Palestinian woman walks at the site of houses destroyed during an Israeli raid in the western part of Nuseirat, central Gaza Strip, on Tuesday ( Reuters ) What is the two-state solution? The idea of dividing the Holy Land goes back decades. When the British mandate over Palestine ended, the UN partition plan in 1947 envisioned dividing the territory into Jewish and Arab states. Upon Israels declaration of independence the following year, war erupted with its Arab neighbours and the plan was never implemented. Over half of the Palestinian population fled or were forced to flee. Under a 1949 armistice, Jordan held control over the West Bank and east Jerusalem and Egypt over Gaza. Israel captured the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza in the 1967 six-day war. The Palestinians seek these lands for a future independent state, and the idea of a two-state solution based on Israels pre-1967 boundaries has been the basis of peace talks dating back to the 1990s. The two-state solution has wide international support, but there is disagreement about how it would be implemented. Israels creation and expansion of settlements in the Occupied West Bank, which are illegal under international law, are seen as a major obstacle to this. open image in gallery Starvation in the war-torn strip has reached a critical point ( Reuters ) What would recognition of Palestine as a state mean for refugees? Sir Vincent Fean, a former British consul general to Jerusalem and now a trustee of the charity Britain Palestine Project, explained that recognition of Palestine as a state would mean that if Palestinian passports were issued, they would subsequently be recognised by the UK as passports of a state. However, Sir Vincent said Palestinian statehood would not affect the UKs refugee system. Does it impact the tally of refugees coming to the UK? No, he said. This is because he expects the visa regime the UK currently has with Palestine where travel is only allowed between the two after a successful visa application would continue. He added that Palestinian statehood wouldnt particularly change the right of return for Palestinians to their homeland. He said this was a long-standing right, although it would require negotiation with Israel. open image in gallery Keir Starmers decision came after he convened a meeting of his cabinet on Tuesday to discuss the situation in the Middle East ( PA ) What does UK recognition of Palestinian statehood mean for how the two would communicate? Sir Vincent said this was a very important point to clarify, as he highlighted the distinction between recognising the entity of Palestine and recognising factions of government. He said: Its important to say the British government doesnt recognise governments, it recognises states. So it isnt actually recognising President [Mahmoud] Abbas as head of the PLO [Palestine Liberation Organisation] and head of the Palestinian Authority. In practice, he would be the interlocutor in Ramallah, because there isnt an alternative. He stressed, however, that Britain has already proscribed Hamas as a terrorist group and that this would not change. Dr Norman added that the Palestinian Authority is currently the main governing entity for Palestinians in the West Bank, which the UK has recognised and had lines of communication with for a long time. If Britain were to recognise Palestinian statehood, this would not change and would continue. Sir Vincent also said that the prospect of Hamas running Palestine next is practically zero because the militants chances of winning an election are remote. He said the plan for the future governance of Gaza involving the Palestinian Authority will be a focus of the UN meeting being held this week. open image in gallery Israeli soldiers work on their tanks in a staging area on the border with Gaza Strip in southern Israel on Tuesday ( AP ) What countries have recognised Palestinian statehood? France has become the latest country to announce it will recognise Palestinian statehood, drawing angry rebukes from Israel and the United States and opening the door for other major nations to perhaps follow suit. Mr Macron last week published a letter sent to Mr Abbas confirming Frances intention to press ahead with recognition and work to convince other partners to do the same. He said he would make a formal announcement at the United Nations General Assembly next month. France is now the first major Western power to shift its diplomatic stance on a Palestinian state, after Spain, Ireland, and Norway officially recognised it last year. The three countries made the declaration and agreed its borders would be demarcated as they were before the 1967 war, when Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem. However, they also recognised that those borders may change if a final settlement is reached over the territory, and that their decisions did not diminish their belief in Israels fundamental right to exist in peace and security. About 144 of the 193 UN member states recognise Palestine as a state, including most of the global South as well as Russia, China and India. But only a handful of the 27 European Union members do so, mostly former communist countries as well as Sweden and Cyprus. The UN General Assembly approved the de facto recognition of the sovereign state of Palestine in November 2012 by upgrading its observer status at the world body to non-member state from entity. open image in gallery The issue came to the fore in the UK after Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday that France would recognise Palestine as a state ( AP ) What implications would UK recognition of Palestinian statehood have internationally? Dr Norman said: This is where it can be important. Two major global powers, such as the UK and France, making the move would be significant and would pave the way for conversations on the issue happening elsewhere, such as in Canada, she said. It starts isolating the US as the main major power backing Israel to the exclusion of Palestine, she said. It makes them the exception and shows the rest of the world somewhat united in Palestinian self-determination, which has been the UKs policy for a while now. If were serious about that, then we need to be serious about that. We dont have as much military weight as the US, but we do still have diplomatic weight, and we should use what we can. It would show Europe is committed to a two-state solution, and wouldnt let that disappear or sit in the back seat. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The musicians struck up on Friday afternoon in the middle of the airside departures level at Heathrow Terminal 5. The guitar and double bass combo were called The Cash Cows a name that will raise a hollow laugh from airline bosses who say the French, Qatari, Saudi and Australian owners of the UKs biggest airport enjoy a licence to print money. The first song, as I recall, was Brown Eyed Girl. Van Morrisons classic contains the line In the misty morning fog. But outside, the skies were clear and air traffic controllers were coping with the busiest day of the year so far. Entertaining though the band was, I wished I was already halfway to Istanbul. And, as I discovered later, someone else would have been glad if I had been airborne. The backstory: I had paid 266 for the early evening British Airways flight to Turkeys largest city. There was an afternoon flight, but it was priced at over 400. And besides, work commitments meant I probably wouldnt make it to the airport on time. For once, the Tube and Elizabeth line journey from central London to Heathrow proved smooth and swift. As a result, I turned up ridiculously early for my booked flight, and just in time for the earlier departure to Istanbul. open image in gallery The flight to Istanbul had cost 266 ( Getty/iStock ) As (almost) always, I had only cabin baggage and could easily speed through security. I found a helpful BA agent and asked if there might be any space aboard the afternoon flight. Yes, he said, there are two seats left. For a moment, I pictured myself enjoying a drink beside the Bosphorus on Friday evening, rather than touching down after midnight as my ticket prescribed. But unfortunately, he added, theyre not in your class of travel. I have no interest in BAs shorthaul business class for a three-hour flight. From what I can see, economy class on Turkish Airlines is a great match. Yet I bet there were economy passengers on that flight with better British Airways Club status than me (not a high bar) who would have been delighted with a free upgrade. It might have cost BA a few pounds in complimentary drinks, but the lucky passenger would be more likely to choose British Airways in the future. Such an upward move would create a space in economy. For the pleasure of an evening in Istanbul, I would gladly have paid, say, 60. That would constitute free money for BA. But the only option I was offered: upgrading to Club Europe on payment of over 900. I thanked the agent and wandered off, puzzled about the British Airways policy. I can see that allowing passengers to board earlier flights for little or no extra cost could impact revenue. People (including me) would routinely book later, cheaper flights and then try to switch at the airport. open image in gallery British Airways offered an upgrade to Club Europe for a payment of over 900 ( Getty/iStock ) Charging a 60 fee would offset any losses, with a crucial added benefit: freeing up space for a flight several hours later. With 50 minutes remaining before the afternoon Istanbul flight was due to depart, there was no possibility of BA selling either of the two empty seats to a new customer. But had I been moved earlier, there was some chance of selling a ticket to someone desperate to travel at short notice for many hundreds of pounds. One more reason for allowing passengers to switch is summed up for me by a former British Airways manager of overseas bases. If someone wanted to travel earlier, I would always let them, he told me. That stopped them being a potential problem later. As you may have noticed, stuff frequently goes wrong with flying: from technical problems to crew sickness. (Earlier this year, I had two flights in a row cancelled one from each of these causes.) Moving people to earlier flights that are poised to depart reduces the airlines exposure to extra costs. British Airways might riposte: How the heck are we supposed to micromanage all this as the minutes tick away to departure? Well, US airlines seem able to handle such requests either free or for the odd $75 (56), as I was charged by Delta at Atlanta last time I arrived in time for an earlier departure. And I know for a fact that one passenger would have been delighted if I had already been in Istanbul at the time the later flight was taking off. He was the gentleman travelling on a staff ticket. With no space remaining, he was assigned a jump seat provided mainly for cabin crew. Unfortunately, on the Airbus A321, his assigned place was the jump seat built into the door of one of the rear toilets. Had BA made me a reasonable offer to travel on the earlier flight, he would have had my seat. As it was, he had to spend most of the flight standing up. But at least he got on board. For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Demonstrators calling for an end to the Gaza war protested the arrival of an Israeli cruise ship on the Greek island of Crete on Tuesday. It was the third such protest on Greek islands in the past week. On the southern Greek island, protesters at the port of Agios Nikolaos unfurled a huge Palestinian flag. They chanted "Free, free Palestine" as tourists aboard the Crown Iris disembarked and boarded buses for their excursions, according to images shown on local media outlets. Riot police kept the crowd away from the pier where the cruise ship was docked, while scuffles broke out between demonstrators and police. Local media reported that officers used pepper spray at one point to keep the crowd back. open image in gallery Police and demonstrators clash on Rhodes on 28 July ( IN TIME NEWS ) Four people were detained, local media said. Video footage showed police leading one man away, his arms cuffed behind his back, as he shouted "Free, free Palestine." Similar scenes unfolded the previous day when the Crown Iris docked in a port on the eastern Greek island of Rhodes. Clashes broke out between riot police and demonstrators calling for an end to the war in Gaza. There also, the cruise ships passengers disembarked for tours of the island, and no violence was reported. Anti-war protesters on Greeces Cycladic island of Syros were the first to hold a demonstration against the docking of the Crown Iris, on 22 July. open image in gallery Protesters on the island of Syros ( INTIME NEWS ) The crowd of about 150 people chanted slogans and carried banners that read Stop the Genocide and No a/c in hell a reference to the conditions Palestinians face in the Gaza Strip. On that occasion, the ships roughly 1,700 passengers did not disembark and the ship left the island earlier than planned. The company operating the trip, Israels Mano Cruise, said it had decided in light of the situation in the city of Syros to now sail to another tourist destination. Last week's incident had triggered a phone call by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar to Greek counterpart George Gerapetritis. Greece is a popular tourist destination for Israelis on package tours and traveling independently, particularly in the summer months. There are several flights per day between Tel Aviv and Athens, as well as from Israeli airports directly to Greek islands. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice With no passengers and no planes, Pakistans newest and most expensive airport is a bit of a mystery. New Gwadar International Airport was entirely financed by China to the tune of $240 million. Located in the coastal city of Gwadar and completed in October 2024, the airport is a stark contrast to the impoverished, restive southwestern Balochistan province around it. For the past decade, China has poured money into Balochistan and Gwadar as part of a multibillion dollar project that connects its western Xinjiang province with the Arabian Sea, called the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor or CPEC. Authorities have hailed it as transformational but theres scant evidence of change in Gwadar. The city isnt connected to the national grid electricity comes from neighboring Iran or solar panels and there isn't enough clean water. An airport with a 400,000 passenger capacity isn't a priority for the city's 90,000 people. This airport is not for Pakistan or Gwadar, said Azeem Khalid, an international relations expert who specializes in Pakistan-China ties. It is for China, so they can have secure access for their citizens to Gwadar and Balochistan. open image in gallery People walk through a market in the coastal city of Gwadar, in the southwest Pakistani province of Balochistan ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) CPEC has catalyzed a decadeslong insurgency in resource-rich and strategically located Balochistan. Separatists, aggrieved by what they say is state exploitation at the expense of locals, are fighting for independence targeting both Pakistani troops and Chinese workers in the province and elsewhere. Members of Pakistans ethnic Baloch minority say they face discrimination by the government and are denied opportunities available elsewhere in the country, charges the government denies. Pakistan, keen to protect China's investments, has stepped up its military footprint in Gwadar to combat dissent. The city is a jumble of checkpoints, barbed wire, troops, barricades, and watchtowers. Roads close at any given time, several days a week, to permit the safe passage of Chinese workers and Pakistani VIPs. Intelligence officers monitor journalists visiting Gwadar. The city's fish market is deemed too sensitive for coverage. Many local residents are frazzled. Nobody used to ask where we are going, what we are doing, and what is your name, said 76-year-old Gwadar native Khuda Bakhsh Hashim. We used to enjoy all-night picnics in the mountains or rural areas." We are asked to prove our identity, who we are, where we have come from, he added. "We are residents. Those who ask should identify themselves as to who they are. open image in gallery A view of newly developing area, bottom, and downtown area seen from a hilltop in the coastal city of Gwadar, in the southwest Pakistani province of Balochistan, Jan. 14, 2025 ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Hashim recalled memories, warm like the winter sunshine, of when Gwadar was part of Oman, not Pakistan, and was a stop for passenger ships heading to Mumbai. People didnt go to bed hungry and men found work easily, he said. There was always something to eat and no shortage of drinking water. But Gwadar's water has dried up because of drought and unchecked exploitation. So has the work. The government says CPEC has created some 2,000 local jobs but its not clear whom they mean by local Baloch residents or Pakistanis from elsewhere in the country. Authorities did not elaborate. open image in gallery Fishermen weight fish on a scale in the coastal city of Gwadar, in southwest Pakistani province of Balochistan ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Gwadar is humble but charming, the food excellent and the locals chatty and welcoming with strangers. It gets busy during public holidays, especially the beaches. Still, there is a perception that it's dangerous or difficult to visit only one commercial route operates out of Gwadar's domestic airport, three times a week to Karachi, Pakistan's largest city, located at the other end of Pakistan's Arabian Sea coastline. There are no direct flights to Balochistan's provincial capital of Quetta, hundreds of miles inland, or the national capital of Islamabad, even further north. A scenic coastal highway has few facilities. Since the Baloch insurgency first erupted five decades ago, thousands have gone missing in the province anyone who speaks up against exploitation or oppression can be detained, suspected of connections with armed groups, the locals say. People are on edge; activists claim there are forced disappearances and torture, which the government denies. Hashim wants CPEC to succeed so that locals, especially young people, find jobs, hope and purpose. But that hasn't happened. When someone has something to eat, then why would he choose to go on the wrong path," he said. It is not a good thing to upset people. Militant violence declined in Balochistan after a 2014 government counterinsurgency and plateaued toward the end of that decade, according to Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies. Attacks picked up after 2021 and have climbed steadily since. Militant groups, especially the outlawed Baloch Liberation Army, were emboldened by the Pakistani Taliban ending a ceasefire with the government in November 2022. open image in gallery This satellite image from Planet Labs PBC shows the New Gwadar International Airport near Gwadar Security concerns delayed the inauguration of the international airport. There were fears the areas mountains and their proximity to the airport could be the ideal launchpad for an attack. Instead, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his Chinese counterpart Li Qiang hosted a virtual ceremony. The inaugural flight was off limits to the media and public. Abdul Ghafoor Hoth, district president of the Balochistan Awami Party, said not a single resident of Gwadar was hired to work at the airport, "not even as a watchman. Forget the other jobs, how many Baloch people are at this port that was built for CPEC, he asked. In December, Hoth organized daily protests over living conditions in Gwadar. The protests stopped 47 days later, once authorities pledged to meet the locals demands, including better access to electricity and water. No progress has been made on implementing those demands since then. Without local labor, goods or services, there can be no trickle-down benefit from CPEC, said international relations expert Khalid. As Chinese money came to Gwadar, so did a heavy-handed security apparatus that created barriers and deepened mistrust. The Pakistani government is not willing to give anything to the Baloch people, and the Baloch are not willing to take anything from the government, said Khalid. There was a lot of confusion about the US-EU trade deal in the 24 hours after it was agreed by Donald Trump and Ursula von der Leyen. A. They are. The White House and the European Commission have each published a fact sheet setting out more details in the framework deal. The most important point from an Irish point of view is confirmation that the tariff on exports of pharmaceutical products from Europe to the US will be 15pc. The multinationals based here, such as Pfizer and Eli Lilly, export about 40bn of pharma to the US each year. The Government has been accused of not doing enough to promote a tax credit for renters, after new figures showed a fall in the numbers claiming it. Many wrongly believe Irish Government will pay medical bills if they get ill abroad, survey shows A third of of people had to visit a doctor when travelling One in six said they did not buy travel insurance because they were 'healthy'. Photo: PA Charlie Weston Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 06:30 Large numbers of people mistakenly believe the Government will pay their medical bills if they become seriously ill while abroad. The north-west, Irelands most rural region in population terms, has recorded the fastest rate of growth in innovation since 2018, with its innovation systems ranking 41st out of 241 regions analysed by the European Commission. The Commissions latest Regional Innovation Scoreboard evaluates innovation metrics such as R&D expenditure in the private and public sector in each region, how well SMEs collaborate with each other and with researchers at local universities, the products and services created by local SMEs, and employment in knowledge intensive activities. Ozempic makers shares plunge $70bn as copycats bite into weight loss market Novo Nordisk became Europe's most valuable listed company following the launch of Wegovy in 2021 A new study has been launched to see if a side effect linked to weight loss drugs may be linked to genes (Alamy/PA) Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen, Stine Jacobsen and Maggie Fick Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 17:08 Investors knocked $70bn off Novo Nordisks market value on Tuesday after the maker of weight-loss drug Wegovy issued a profit warning and named a new CEO, as it battles rising competition in the obesity drug market. A woman is seen holding a candle for light when Spain, Portugal and other parts of Europe were hit with widespread power blackouts earlier this year. Photo: Getty Portuguese authorities have announced a raft of measures to strengthen the country's electricity system following the April 28 blackout that left most of Spain and Portugal without power for several hours. Director spent 15 years tracking down and talking to peers of the pilots and members of their families to deliver this monumental achievement in filmmaking A graphic from Kamikaze: An Untold History, featuring the faces and names of some of the 4,000 Japanese pilots sacrificed on suicide missions. Photo: BBC/NHK Amid the innumerable books and documentaries about World War II, few examine the question of why there was widespread public support in Japan for the kamikaze missions that sent 4,000 pilots, all in their teens or early 20s, to their deaths in the final 10 months of the war. The feature-length documentary Kamikaze: An Untold History (BBC iPlayer), produced by Japans public service broadcaster NHK, is an attempt to make sense of what seems senseless. Its crystal clear on why the missions themselves went on so long after the countrys military leaders knew the war was already a lost cause. The sacrifice of the lives of these young men, many of whom hadnt even completed their training, was a cynical attempt to prolong the war in order to negotiate more favourable terms with the Allies. Historical records show that a mere 10pc of the kamikaze missions succeeded in their objective In the event, what followed was the dropping of two atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, followed within days by the Japanese surrender. Historical records show that a mere 10pc of the kamikaze missions succeeded in their objective. All the sacrifices, all the deaths, including those of 7,000 Allied personnel killed in the attacks, were ultimately for nothing. The documentarys director, Oshima Takayuki, spent 15 years tracking down and talking to peers of the pilots and members of their families. The result is a monumental achievement. The documentary explodes the myth, easily digestible during the war to those in the West being drip-fed racial stereotypes, that the kamikaze pilots were, like the suicide bombers of today, crazed fanatics who were happy to give their lives for the cause. Maybe a handful of them were. Most, however, were just young, terrified men who, fearful of being shamed and branded traitors, felt they had no choice but to volunteer. They were given a form on which they had to state their willingness to go on a kamikaze mission. The choices were: strongly desire, desire or negative. In that environment, it must have been difficult to write negative, says a historian. Tsubomi, sister of the kamikaze pilot Ishii Hitoshi, in 'Kamikaze: An Untold History'. Photo: BBC/NHK The only way for a pilot to ensure they didnt end up on a kamikaze mission was to achieve the highest training grades. The best pilots were considered by their superiors too valuable to be treated as cannon fodder. Everyone else was expendable. Kawashima Tetsuzo enlisted at 15 and died a few months short of his 18th birthday. Here, his family sift through some mementos. Theres a Japanese flag signed by all his classmates and an article from a womens magazine honouring him and others who had died on missions. There were letters of tribute written by his teachers. The first kamikaze missions involved 24 pilots. One of them was 20-year-old Hitora Yukinobu. His plane was second in a formation of six and his death was captured on film. Footage from the US aircraft carrier he was attacking shows his plane being hit in the wing. Pupils had to sing a song, written by their teacher after the young mans death, urging 500 more students to enlist and go to war Tsunoda Kazuo, whose status as an ace pilot meant he was spared kamikaze missions, was assigned to follow the planes and report on the result of the attack. He says the pilots had the message drilled into them that kamikaze missions were their only way of ensuring Japans survival. The media glorified the pilots supposedly pure-hearted sacrifice. Their stories were told on the radio, featuring personal messages theyd recorded for their families the night before flying to their deaths. Shrines were erected in their hometowns. A film about the exploits of one squadron was shown in cinemas to huge enthusiasm. The slogan 100 Million Kamikaze swept across the country. Schools had a big role to play in the propaganda campaign. A friend of a kamikaze pilot recalls an empty coffin being carried into the school hall. Pupils had to sing a song, written by their teacher after the young mans death, urging 500 more students to enlist and go to war. When shes told this by director Takayuki, the teachers now elderly daughter is surprised hed written such a thing. She says he was a mild-mannered man who was unfit for military service due to having had TB. He must have felt a sense of inferiority, she says. Rating: Five stars The owner of Asba Meats Ltd, Tarequr Rahman Khan, was a no-show in court despite the judges order on him to attend. Stock image (Photo: Getty) A judge has stated that there is nothing the court can do to assist in relation to a meat firms efforts to obtain in full an unpaid debt from a Shannon-based halal meat-plant operator. At Ennis District Civil Court, Judge Alec Gabbett made his comment after the owner of Asba Meats Ltd, Tarequr Rahman Khan, was a no show in court despite the judges order on him to attend. In court last month, Judge Gabbett made an order directing that Mr Khan attend court concerning his firms unpaid debt of 16,931 to Town and Country Meats Group. Solicitor Stiofan Fitzpatrick told the court that his client, Town and Country Meats, had obtained judgment against Asba Meats for the amount. On Mr Khans no-show following his direction to attend, Judge Gabbett said that the disengagement with authority is of some concern. He said: If he is not going to comply with a court direction, he is not going to comply with a lot of directions statutory or otherwise. Mr Fitzpatrick has previously applied for a bench warrant for Mr Khan to attend but Judge Gabbett said that he couldnt issue a bench warrant as it was the company name on the case before the court. Mr Fitzpatrick said that prior to a previous court sitting when Mr Khan did attend the courthouse, he reached agreement with Mr Khan about paying the debt but only 1,000 had been received. Town and Country Meats Group obtained an order in the Circuit Court on June 4, 2024, to allow the company to recover 16,181 from Asba Meats along with 750 in costs and expenses. Judge Gabbett adjourned the case to September 19 for mention. In January of this year, in a separate case, the Agri-Food Regulator recorded its first conviction for a breach of the unfair trading practices (UTP) Regulations against Asba Meats at the same court. The case concerned Asba Meats Ltd over the non-payment of 10,059 for cattle delivered to the slaughter plant by a West of Ireland farmer, Pat McGrath. In a separate case before the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), Adjudicator Una Glazier-Farmer has directed that Asba Meats Ltd pay 18,844 to Shadid Kamal for his unfair dismissal. Ms Glazier-Farmer has ordered Asba Meats to pay Mr Kamal who was also represented by Mr Fitzpatrick an additional 3,781 in a redundancy lump-sum payment. There was no appearance by Asba Meats at the WRC hearing and Ms Glazier-Farmer found that Mr Kamal was unfairly dismissed in April 2024 and the dismissal occurred without any adherence to fair procedures. She said: His account remains undisputed, and his extensive documentation of efforts to secure alternative employment is accepted as credible evidence. TV presenters Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty have separated after more than a decade of marriage, they said in a statement. Criminal thug jailed for petrol-bomb attack on home of sleeping family as part of feud Court told fire had devastating impact on two households Alex Cronin threatens Stephen McDonagh in video message Eavan Murray Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 06:30 A criminal thug who petrol-bombed the home of a sleeping family has been jailed for five years. Gardai on alert as suspected gunman in Gary Carey murder freed from prison Criminal parties at dance music event after his release from jail Gary Carey (41) died from gunshot wounds he sustained in a 2022 attack Ken Foy Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 06:30 Gardai are closely monitoring the activities of a volatile criminal who is the suspected gunman in the murder of gangland figure Gary The Canary Carey three years ago. LATEST | Irish Twitter worker claims he was given ultimatum to sign up to new reality of platform, tribunal told as company challenges 550,000 payout The social media giant will argue that Gary Rooney made a conscious decision not to click yes in response to an email from Elon Musk, knowing it would lead to his resignation Ex-Twitter executive Gary Rooney photographed as he arrived at the Labour Court on Lansdowne road in Dublin. Photo: Frank McGrath Anne-Marie Walsh Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 20:43 A former executive at Twitter has claimed that he was given an ultimatum to sign up to the new reality of Twitter 2.0, or not. Latest | Ireland 'in the dark' over fate of pharma in Trump tariff deal John Burns: Is the EU-US trade deal good for Europe and how will it affect the upcoming Budget? Tabitha Monahan and John Burns Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 06:30 There is enormous confusion in Government and the EU about what products will be covered by the baseline 15pc tariff which activates on Friday following the US trade deal. Assistant commissioner warns about misinformation circulating about attack Gardai have still not established a motive for why a man in his 20s attacked two gardai and stabbed one of them in a shocking incident on Tuesday evening. Managing director of family business Boann Distillery, Pat Cooney, said if Irish whiskey is hit with 15pc tariffs, there will be a serious impact, as he calls on the Government to back indigenous business following Donald Trumps trade deal with the EU. Cat Zakrzewski: Wit, humour and vitriol Scottish protesters use every tool they have to let Donald Trump know how they feel about him From Irn-Bru to bagpipe references, demonstrations have a distinctly local flavour to them People take part in a Stop Trump Scotland protest outside the US Consulate in Edinburgh on Saturday. Photo: PA Cat Zakrzewski Washington Post Mon 28 Jul 2025 at 06:30 With witty placards, blaring bagpipes and terse lines in the sand, Scots are protesting against US president Donald Trumps visit to their nation this weekend in their own inimitable way. Ksenia Samotiy: Ukrainians will fight for democracy, even if it means taking on not just Vladimir Putin, but Volodymyr Zelensky too Recent protests over the hobbling of anti-corruption bodies were not a sign of weakness they were a sign of good civic health in Ukraine that we wont accept anything that erodes our values Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky backtracked under pressure. Photo: Reuters Ksenia Samotiy Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 06:30 Would you go out and protest in the middle of a war, when drones and missiles are being fired at your hometown pretty much every day? Well, it turns out that Ukrainians will. A trade war has been averted but at what cost? US president Donald Trump and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen agreed a US tariff on all EU goods of 15pc. But there are no reciprocal tariffs from the EU side. European exporters will now face more than triple the average 4.8pc levy currently in force. The EU will argue the deal is half the 30pc rate Trump had threatened to implement. Von der Leyen has described the outcome as a rebalancing. The commission has bought into Trumps rhetoric that the trade deficit was somehow Europes fault. The devil will be in the detail, and the detail is not altogether clear at this point. However, the response on the EU side to the deal has been less than enthusiastic. The accusation of a capitulation hangs over Von der Leyen. A deafening silence has emerged from the Elysee Palace in Paris as French president Emmanuel Macron mulls over the agreement. But French prime minister Francois Bayrou called the trade deal a dark day for Europe. He accused negotiators of caving in to the US side by accepting an unbalanced deal. France wanted the EU to take a tougher stance against Trump. Viktor Orban said Trump ate Von der Leyen for breakfast The mood music from Berlin and Rome was altogether different, as Germany and Italy wanted a more conciliatory approach. And there is a question mark over whether Macron really wanted an all-out trade war with the US. Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban said Trump ate Von der Leyen for breakfast and he suspected such an outcome, as the US president is a heavyweight when it comes to negotiations while Madame President is featherweight. The deal, as outlined so far, has got a mixed response on this island. The level of certainty is welcome, the outcome isnt, and the impact is unclear. Already, the point is being made that different tariffs on either side of the Border will now be solidified. Northern Ireland exporters will face a 10pc tariff as they fall under the more favourable UK trade deal. But traders on this side of the Border are facing a 15pc regime. The variation will particularly come into play for producers of whiskey because Jameson will be charged more than Bushmills when it is exported to the US. Nobody in the EU will be in any mood to reopen the customs arrangements in the wake of Brexit, so the existing system will just have to ensure there is no taking advantage of the alternative regimes. US president Donald Trump had the upper hand in trade talks with EU. Photo: PA John Burns: Is the EU-US trade deal good for Europe and how will it affect the upcoming Budget? Taoiseach Micheal Martin has welcomed the trade agreement between the US and EU as having avoided a damaging trade war. Pointing to the wider geopolitical and defence considerations at play, the Taoiseach said it opens up the prospect of more significant strategic collaboration between the US and Europe on quite a number of issues. Trump had the upper hand as he instigated the tariffs, appeared willing to proceed with his strategy and had other security cards to play. He got what he wanted and will claim a victory over Europe, even if the impact is still to be determined. How did the EU lose out to Trump in US trade talks? What does this mean for the Irish economy? And why are legitimate texts still being labelled as scam texts? We visited one of Corks trendiest new restaurants to savour its mouth-watering fare Dan Guerin has served up a top-notch menu of Irish classics with a Gallic touch at Cush A starter of warm natural smoked haddock, leeks, potato veloute, crispy hens' egg Kevin Galvin Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 09:09 In July 2024, the town of Midleton received the news that one of its beloved restaurants would be closing down. Cork urged to take on Europe over suncream VAT as city installs free dispensers Cork City Council has been urged to contact the EU to reclassify suncream as essential, citing high costs and rising skin cancer rates in Ireland Suncream is a key protection from skin cancer, which claims over 200 lives in Ireland every year. Stock image Kevin Galvin Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 08:00 A Cork man is trying to convince the European Commission to eliminate VAT from suncreams and creams with SPF protection. Permission has been sought on the site of 22/23 Douglas Street Planning permission has been sought for an apartment block on the site of a former historic gay bar in Cork City. Loafers, on 22 and 23 Douglas Street, was opened in 1983 by Derrick Gerety, making it one of the longest running gay bars in Ireland. Sadly the bar closed suddenly in May 2015, marking the end of one of the cornerstones of LGBT community in Cork. HSE South West has announced that the emergency department at CUH is currently experiencing very high levels of activity. The public are being advised to consider all care options - including GPs, pharmacists and SouthDoc out-of-hours services. When there is a large volume of ED attendances, patients are prioritised in terms of clinical need and wait times for non-urgent care can be lengthy, the HSE South West said. They added that patients arriving to the ED will be clinically assessed and seen in order or priority, so those with non-urgent presentations will be waiting a long time and are advised to seek alternative treatments. HSE South West also said that GPs can also access Urgent Virtual Care (UVC), a new regional telehealth service which allows GPs and paramedics to consult directly by phone, or by video call, with a senior medical decision-maker in emergency medicine or geriatric medicine. They can advise if you need to attend the ED. People who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend EDs where they will be prioritised. Our priority is to protect access to emergency care for those who need it most, said HSE Integrated Area Manager for Cork South and West Priscilla Lynch. Were asking the public to help us by seeking treatment through other trusted services such as GPs, SouthDoc, pharmacists, and their local injury unit. The new Urgent Virtual Care service is also a vital tool to help GPs assess patients and guide them to the right pathway. Chief Executive Officer, Cork University Hospital Jennifer Kearney urged everyone to pause and consider a number of options becoming coming to the ED. We are currently experiencing a surge in activity at CUHs Emergency Department. Its vital we reserve our resources for patients with the most critical needs. I urge everyone to pause and consider: Is the ED the right place for my care? There are excellent alternatives available - including local GPs, pharmacies, SouthDoc, and injury units that can offer prompt and appropriate support, she added. Know your options if you need medical treatment: Self-care Have a well-stocked medicine cabinet to help with colds and sore throats Pharmacy Ask your pharmacist for advice on common minor illnesses GP Surgery Make an appointment with your GP if youre feeling unwell Local Injury Unit For minor injuries, broken bones and burns. See www.hse.ie/injuryunits for more information Out-of-Hours GP if your GP clinic is closed, call SouthDoc on 0818 355 999 ED or 999/112 For emergencies, please visit your nearest ED Out-of-Hours GP if your GP clinic is closed, call SouthDoc on 0818 355 999 ED or 999/112 For emergencies, please visit your nearest ED In order to facilitate repair works, 943 customers in Co Kildare will be impacted by a water outage from 10pm Friday, August 1 until 3am Sunday, August 3 The site of the major Ballymore Eustace to Saggart Reservoir pipeline repair works which are due to take place this weekend. Photo: Naoise Culhane Photography Declan Healy, programme manager with Uisce Eireann at the site of the major Ballymore Eustace to Saggart Reservoir pipeline repair. Photo: Naoise Culhane Photography 943 homes in Co Kildare are to be without water over the August bank holiday weekend due to a planned water outage to facilitate Uisce Eireann repair works. Uisce Eireann is carrying out "critical and complex repair works to a major pipeline that connects Ballymore Eustace Water Treatment Plant and the Saggart Reservoir over the August bank holiday weekend. This is a major pipeline that supplies one third of the Greater Dublin Areas (GDA) drinking water. In order to facilitate the repair works, customers in Kill, Arthurstown, Rathmore, Athgoe and Tipperkevin will be impacted by a water outage from 10pm Friday August 1 until 3am Sunday August 3. Alternative water supplies will be provided. Customers in other parts of Co Kildare may possibly experience interruptions to their water supply including low pressure, discoloured water, or water outages, while customers in Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow are being urged by Uisce Eireann to conserve water during these essential repair works. This major pipeline can only be shut down for up to 28 hours before the water storage levels become too low, which could lead to widespread supply disruption, said regional operations manager at Uisce Eireann, Stephen Burke. "Therefore, the specialist repair crews have a very tight deadline to finish the repairs and refill the pipeline with water. We will work through the day and night this weekend to complete these essential works as quickly and safely as possible. "We acknowledge the inconvenience caused by the interruptions to water supply and thank the communities in north Kildare for their patience and cooperation while we deliver these essential works." Customers who experience intermittent loss to supply can access alternative water supplies at the following locations: Rathmore National School W91 VK46 Kill Equestrian Centre, Newtown Customers are reminded to use their own containers when taking water from the tanker and, as a precaution, boil the water before drinking. As per best practice, most homes and businesses will have on-site water storage to provide a backup source of water for sanitation purposes. Uisce Eireann has advised customers to familiarise themselves with their storage capacity. The site of the major Ballymore Eustace to Saggart Reservoir pipeline repair works which are due to take place this weekend. Photo: Naoise Culhane Photography Declan Healy, programme manager at Uisce Eireann, explained the complexity of the works: We have extensively planned and prepared for carrying out these complex works over the last nine months, he said. Follow Independent Kildare on Facebook Specialist teams will repair five leaks and replace a damaged section of pipeline. To do this, the water flowing through the pipe will be turned off temporarily and the pipeline will be drained. Draining the pipe will allow specialist crews will go inside the pipeline to repair five active leaks using bespoke methods. Another specialist team will remove 35 metres of degraded pipeline and install a new section of pipeline. The repair's progress will be monitored closely and Uisce Eireann will keep customers updated as early as possible on the location(s) and duration of any prolonged impacts including supply disruptions, should they develop. Uisce Eireann said they acknowledge the inconvenience caused by interruptions to water supply and thank communities for their patience and cooperation for the duration of the works. Howth RNLI is appealing for local volunteers to join its lifeboat crew to save lives at sea. The station has openings for both its all-weather Trent class lifeboat and the inshore D class lifeboat. With nearly 190 years of lifesaving service behind them, the volunteer crews at Howth RNLI continue to play a vital role in keeping those in Dublin Bay safe. Lifeboats must launch quickly in an emergency, RNLI volunteers need to live or work within 15 minutes of the station so they can respond fast when needed. Howth RNLI is looking for those who are committed and available around-the-clock to assist in its operations. The 24-hour rescue service operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland. Since the charity launched its first lifeboat in 1824, the RNLI has saved more than 146,000 lives at sea. Colm Newport, lifeboat operations manager at the Howth branch says it is an amazing opportunity for those who fit the eligible criteria. If youre in a position to extend your hand out to help others, it is great, he said. We can train anyone. The main thing is you must be open and receptive to training. In 2024 alone, Howth RNLI launched 44 times, coming to the aid of 47 people. Twelve of those launches took place in the hours of darkness. Mr Newport who is a professional seafarer says that crew must be available 24/7 to respond to their pagers. If a member of the public dials 999 and something is up, be it somebody or some boat is in difficulty they would be put through to the Coast Guard in Dublin. They will page us. We're on call 24/7, and then we will launch. It's an on demand service. It's not a schedule. So whenever the pager goes, we need the volunteers to safely make their way to the station, he said. Mr Newport says this role may not suit everyone as availability and proximity to the station is paramount. If your employer chose to allow you to volunteer, let's say you are a dentist, you can't just leave a patient sitting in the chair and run out the door, he said. Mr Newport says volunteers receive full training and ongoing support, along with the opportunity to develop life-saving skills and serve their community in a meaningful way. Get on the boat, receive the instruction, understand the instruction, and carry it out. And obviously our main thing is to get our boat and crew back safely. Fin Goggin, a volunteer crew member on both lifeboats at Howth RNLI says it's a privilege to be a part of such a dedicated team. Being part of the RNLI is more than just a role - its a responsibility. As helm of the ILB, you're leading the crew into potentially dangerous situations, but youre doing it to help others who are in real need, she said. You can apply to be a volunteer on the RNLI website. The rebranded Karen's Gone Wild announced it will close its doors in Dublin The infamous Karen's Diner will close its doors in Dublin on August 3 Karens Gone Wild, formerly known as Karens Diner, has announced it will close its doors in Dublin this weekend. The OConnell Street restaurant opened under the Karens Diner franchise in February last year, and was known for its deliberately unpleasant customer service. As part of the experience, staff must hurl insults and be rude to the customers. In November, the business underwent a rebrand to Karens Gone Wild after the parent company went bust. Restaurant owner Ivan Marinov (22) said opening a business at a young age was difficult and that the rebrand was a big reason the restaurant decided to close its doors. I guess initially, it was a bit hard because customers did think we were closing as well, he said of the rebrand. A lot of customers were afraid with their bookings and their refunds and things like that. The rebranded Karen's Gone Wild announced it will close its doors in Dublin Mr Marinov said the concept of the diner was good to start with, but when the overall restaurant franchise went bankrupt, things took a turn. Karens Diner looked like a good idea at the start. It worked really well for a good while. It was something different for people to go to, he said. I guess restaurants are all kind of the same. But we had the experience so people would come for [that]. The diner announced its closure yesterday saying: After a wild ride, weve decided it's time to shut our doors. Karens will officially close Sunday, August 3. The closure follows a series of Workplace Relations Commission rulings in favour of former staff who were awarded 2,000 in unpaid tips. One worker said she went six weeks without receiving the gratuities promised under the restaurant's tipping policy. Mr Marinov said he always knew the restaurant was going to be a temporary measure, and knows why customers wouldnt come on a repeat basis. You wouldn't go to the cinema to watch a movie over and over again, he said. However, VAT and increasing costs became a big issue. We knew we wouldnt be here forever. We knew it would close at some point, he said. We thought initially we would be able to do something, but it didnt work out. Mr Marinov said the restaurant will be offering a closing offer for its customers ahead of the closing date this Sunday. Northern and Entreprise lines to be suspended this weekend All Northern Commuter Line and Enterprise rail services will be suspended this weekend due to renewal works. Irish Rail has announced from Saturday, August 2, to Monday, August 4, the Northern line service will be closed between Malahide and Dundalk. The disruption is due to track renewal works, overhead line works for new battery-electric trains, track works at Drogheda, and accessibility works at Rush and Lusk. Dublin to Belfast Enterprise services will be partially substituted with bus transfers between Dublin and Drogheda/Dundalk to a revised timetable. Irish Rail has said there will be some bus transfer arrangements for Northern Commuter line passengers; it will operate two routes between Drogheda, Balbriggan, Donabate, Skerries, Rush, Lusk and Connolly. Meanwhile, additional DART services will operate on Saturday, August 2, for the Bray Air Display. From Sunday, August 3, Dublin Connolly to Rosslare Europort services will operate as far as Wexford by train, with bus transfers in place for those travelling to Rosslare Strand and Rosslare Europort. Northern and Entreprise lines to be suspended this weekend Today's News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 Meanwhile, on Saturday and Sunday, track works for the installation of a second track between Glounthaune and Midleton will continue, with bus transfers operating between the two stations. On Saturday, there will be bridge works between Roscommon and Ballyhaunis, with bus transfer operating between the two stations for Dublin and Westport services. From Sunday, to facilitate Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann events taking place on Wexford Quay, Dublin Connolly to Rosslare Europort services will operate from Dublin Connolly to Wexford, with bus transfer arrangements for customers travelling to/from Rosslare Strand and Rosslare Europort. There will also be general bank holiday schedule changes across all routes. The famous racing festival kicked off at Ballybrit with touching tributes, new attractions, and one very popular four-legged addition. Here's what we spotted on opening day Alana Kennedy, Athenry at the first day of the Galway Races Summer Festival at Ballybrit. Photo: Ray Ryan Michelle Murphy and Joan Kennedy both from GAlway at the first day of the Galway Races Summer Festival at Ballybrit. Photo: Ray Ryan An air of excitement has bubbled up across Ballybrit , with punters, newbies and veteran racegoers, arriving in their droves to take in the music, food, drink, and of course, the horse racing, on the first day of the Galway Races. Even though the hugely popular Ladies Day isnt until Thursday there was still plenty of glamour on Monday especially at the colourful flower wall. A minute's silence for Edward O'Grady A minute of silence was held in honour of Edward OGrady However, a dark cloud was evident during the sombre minute's silence was observed for the late Irish horse trainer Edward OGrady ahead of the days first race. Mr OGradys death at age 75 was announced by his family on Monday morning. New Beauty Paddock brings designer finds to racegoers As always Ballybrit had all its iconic features, from the champagne bar to the Irish Independents newspaper horse, but this year it also has a new addition, the Beauty Paddock. There, the Irish Independent met Keith Hanaway, pop-up manager for Vision Ireland, who said: We have pop ups in different locations throughout the country, and we bring all of our preloved, donated designer stock to different areas and raise money for Vision Ireland charity. Vision Ireland's Keith Hanaway and Carmel McDonnell. Mr Hanaway said the Beauty Paddock is a dedicated beauty zone for all racegoers. There's a small refresh stand where people come get their touch-ups. There's Ella and Jo products and skin care. Then from the Vision Ireland side, we've got a curated range of pre-loved and premium donated and designer stock. It's something different, but we tried it at Punchestown [Racecourse] this year and it was really successful. If it's as successful as we hope, it will be brilliant. Gunner the garda dog wins over crowds As hundreds of people entered the gates, it soon became evident one new face stole on the spotlight, Gunner the garda dog. Gunner the garda dog getting all the attention in Ballybrit The Cocker Spaniel works from Donegal down to Galway searching for drugs, cash and firearms. However, today he mostly enjoyed pets and belly rubs from racegoers. His handler, also on duty, told the Irish Independent: There has been a massive increase in interest for the dog unit because he's only new here in Galway. It's the first time ever for Galway to have a dog unit. Were just finished arts week and we're going into the races straight away. So, he's busy. Well be around for the week so theres lots of opportunity for people to come and meet Gunner. Officials praise festival's family atmosphere MEP Maria Walsh, who grew up only 30 minutes away from the racecourse, is a frequent visitor to the Galway Races and she said the opening day of the festival always has a lovely atmosphere. MEP Maria Walsh Monday is usually a lovely crowd, theres a lot of locals, the sun will be shining I hope for the rest of the day, and you're just getting the cheer right before it takes off, she said. The Mayo local said she finds it gorgeous seeing the evolution of the Galway Races. I think there's such a gorgeous balance of more and more people getting involved, she said. As long as we get the good weather then we get thousands to the West of the country, and you see such a big investment. In my work as a policymaker on the European front, you want to see that investment on an annual basis because it grows and you can really showcase Ireland for its best. Mayor of Galway Mike Cubbard also joined the crowds headed to view the track. Galway mayor Mike Cubbard It's the best week of the year in the best city in the world," he said. The atmosphere is always brilliant right across the city centre, right up here to Ballybrit; people are looking forward to it. While many are excited for the famous Ladies Day, Mayor Cubbard is most looking forward to seeing the excited children of Galway and further afield taking in the magic. There are kids here who are the next generation of the Galway Festival, and they're here enjoying it, he said. You can have a drink here; theres loads of food around here; the fashion is fantastic as well. But to me, its a real family week. Fashion fans eagerly await Ladies Day Aside from Mayor Cubbard, most punters when asked had no doubts about their favourite race day: Ladies Day. Mother and daughter Siobhan and Jessie Smith Mother and daughter Siobhan and Jessie Smith travelled from Birr, County Offaly, for the week. On Thursday, Jessie sister Kate will join them and the family looks forward to spending the most fashionable day in Ballybrit together. Jessie was overwhelmed by the scale of the races and the incredible fashion, while Siobhan explained her family come to Galway every year: We love it here. We love the atmosphere, we love the style, it's just fantastic. Galway is always brilliant. Pam RichardsonHoare described herself as an avid racegoer and her experience shows as her outfit grabbed the attention of many this afternoon. Pam RichardsonHoare. I started racing in 2019. I love it. The Galway Races is such an iconic race meet. Talking about her outfit, she added: I love to experiment on race week, and I always just push the boundaries and wear something quirky. It's always lovely to have a pop of colour when you're at a summer race meet. The Limerick native, who now lives in Galway, also cannot wait for Thursday. I'm looking forward to seeing the style on Ladies Day, because it's always phenomenal, every year. Send us your photos from the Galway Races Plans to build Irelands largest solar farm in Galway sparks local opposition Locals have expressed concerns about the size and environmental impact of Bellville Solar Farm A stock image of a solar farm. Joseph Murray Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 10:11 Residents in a Galway townland have expressed concerns about a proposal to construct Irelands largest ever solar farm in the region. South Kerry Life-saving Kerry group marks 10th anniversary after responding to over 2,700 calls for help In the event of an incident that could mean life or death, it is vital that medical aid is given as soon as possible and particularly in cardiac cases this is where Killarney Cardiac Response Unit comes in. Significant damage has been caused by a fire at a business in Farranfore Business Park. The Kerry business which was damaged by a fire at the weekend have said that investigations are ongoing into the cause of the fire as they work to meet their customers needs. The owners and management of Diamant Linen, the Kerry-based commercial linen company, whose production facility was gutted in a fire in the early hours of Sunday morning, are liaising with their customers to ensure their requirements are being catered for, they said in a statement. The company have also confirmed that significant damage has been caused to their production facility in Farranfore Business Park. Fire crews rushed to the scene of the blaze in the early hours of Sunday morning and spent much of the morning tackling the fire which started around 4.30am. Read more Major fire at Kerry business premises Diamant Linen a company described as one of the biggest commercial linen laundries in Europe -serve the hospitality industry across Ireland and are based in 4 Park Business Centre, close to Farranfore village and employ approximately 50 people in Kerry. In their statement the company said "very extensive damage was caused to the 10,000sq ft production facility and investigations are ongoing to the cause of the fire. Diamant Linen has made alternative arrangements to meet customer needs. Diamant administration, despatch and delivery staff remain in constant contact with their clients to minimise any disruption to their businesses, they said. "Its clear that the Palmers Hill location is not suitable and is unlikely to progress," said FG Cllr Declan Burgess. St Patrick's Hospital on the Cahir Road "was and remains the logical choice for a community nursing unit," said a Cashel councillor. Picture by Cllr Liam Browne St Patricks Hospital in Cashel is the natural site for the towns proposed community nursing unit, instead of Palmers Hill, but the government should be ashamed of itself for dithering, local councillors have claimed. In a statement the HSE said it remains committed to providing a new 60-bed community nursing unit (CNU) for Cashel. The project remains at site selection stage, said a spokesperson. As part of this site selection stage process, all HSE owned properties in Cashel are being considered. This includes a revised site option appraisal on the St Patricks Hospital campus. The HSE is working with a design team on the project and consideration will be given to any suitable such site in the Cashel area for development of this proposed healthcare facility. Once a suitable site has been decided upon, a time scale for the delivery of the new Cashel community nursing unit will be indicated, added the HSE on Tuesday this week. "Its clear that the Palmers Hill location is not suitable and is unlikely to progress," said FG Cllr Declan Burgess. After more than two years of the HSE ruling out the St Patricks Hospital campus as a site for the new CNU in Cashel, common sense has finally prevailed, according to Fine Gaels Cllr Declan Burgess. A design team has now returned to the St Patricks site to carry out further work, which reflects what many of us have been saying all along. Its clear that the Palmers Hill location is not suitable and is unlikely to progress. This has been clear through substantial engagement with the planning section of Tipperary County Council, which highlighted the many challenges associated with that site. I have consistently communicated these concerns to the HSE. The St Patricks Hospital campus is the natural and most appropriate home for the new CNU. I can confirm that the HSE is currently working with a design team on this process. It is hoped that the site option appraisal process can be completed in the next two months. I will continue to monitor the process closely and will advocate strongly to ensure that this project proceeds without further delay. Crucially, this development remains on the HSE capital plan. It is a vital piece of infrastructure for community healthcare in Cashel and south Tipperary, and the HSE must now deal seriously with this project. I am confident the project will move ahead, but we must put the delays behind us and make meaningful progress. I have raised the problems with the Palmers Hill proposal from the outset and have always believed that St Patricks is the only logical location for the CNU. I remain committed to working constructively with the HSE, and I urge my political colleagues at all levels to do the same. Our focus must be on delivering this essential facility for the people of our community. The Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, has confirmed to both local TD Michael Murphy and to Cllr Burgess that: A meeting was recently held, along with the IHA manager, regarding the existing site of St. Patricks Hospital and a decision was made to further investigate options on this site by the removal of some existing buildings. This feasibility regarding St. Patricks is ongoing and should be completed in the next three weeks. The HSE remains committed to providing a new Community Nursing Unit (CNU) for Cashel, Co Tipperary. Once a suitable site has been decided upon, a plan and timescale for the project can be provided. Logical choice Meanwhile, independent councillor Liam Browne has said the Government should be ashamed of themselves for wasting precious time around the building of a new CNU in Cashel. I rarely get absolutely disgusted at the news of development in Cashel, but I have to be honest about this, and say that rather than look for credit for the news that a design team has returned to St Patricks Hospital to examine how it can build the proposed community nursing unit, the Government parties, and its representatives, TDs and councillors, should be absolutely ashamed of themselves, he announced on Monday. News on Friday suggests that the HSE have dropped plans to develop at Palmershill in Cashel, said Cllr Browne. How convenient for that the be announced on a Friday, outside of the normal news cycle. Anyone with a lick of sense knew and knows, that the proposed plan to build the unit in Palmershill was ridiculous. All that has happened by pursuing that folly, is that time has been wasted when the CNU could already have been built and have beds being used by older people who desperately need them. It is 2019 when this work was originally supposed to have been done. 2019, six years ago. And yes, Covid intervened and put that back. But had the HSE stuck to their plans, a huge amount of work could have been carried out, even during Covid. Architects could have completed designs. Tipperary council offices could have looked over planning submissions. Instead? Nothing. A wild goose chase. St Patricks was and remains the logical choice for a community nursing unit. It has provided care for the elderly for decades. It has a dedicated staff which provided that care, and were the best carers in Ireland in my opinion. They have been messed around. We have been messed around. And crucially, those who are in dire need of care right now, have been messed around. Were back now to more delays in designing, planning and building a unit. Not to mind the hundreds of thousands of euros that have already been wasted. Again I say, those involved, should be ashamed of themselves, and not looking for any credit in returning to a decision that was staring them in the face for the last six years, said Cllr Browne, describing it as an absolute debacle. A significant sum of 1,240,454 has been awarded to a water programme in Wexford to deliver essential water and waste water infrastructure. The recipient of the funding will be Blackstairs Group Water Scheme, who will use it to address leakage reduction and water conservation, with an estimated 1,114 households to benefit from the investment. Fine Gael Senator Cathal Byrne said funding of 73.9m has been allocated for 291 projects across the county, under the Multi-annual Rural Water Programme 20242026 Todays announcement is great news for communities across the country but particularly those in County Wexford serviced by the Blackstairs Group Water Scheme. Its so important that we protect our water sources and ensure the highest standards in water treatment. We must ensure that communities across Wexford have the benefit of high quality infrastructure and water services, he said. The allocation of 73.9m for 291 projects across the country will directly benefit 63,000 rural households and will address a wide range of needs such as water quality and infrastructure upgrades. Projects will range from minor works right up to major capital investments of over 2m for complex or bundled schemes, he added. Minister James Browne also welcomed the news and highlighted the Governments commitment to improving water services around the country. "The Government is working hard to fund improvements to water services across the country, including services to rural areas that do not have access to Uisce Eireann services. This announcement today is very much part of that commitment and will support rural communities to thrive as places to live and work, he said. Swedish PM meets Chinese vice premier on deepening cooperation Xinhua) 14:30, July 29, 2025 Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson meets with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Stockholm, Sweden, July 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Dai Tianfang) STOCKHOLM, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Stockholm on Monday, as the two countries vow to deepen cooperation and uphold free trade. He first conveyed greetings from the Chinese leadership to Kristersson. He noted that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Sweden, and that Chinese President Xi Jinping and Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf exchanged congratulatory messages to mark the occasion in May. Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both countries, China-Sweden cooperation has continued to expand across various fields, with increasingly close economic and trade ties and broad prospects for future development, He said. He stated that China is ready to work with Sweden to enhance communication and deepen cooperation on the basis of mutual respect, mutual trust, equality and mutual benefit. Both sides should jointly uphold multilateralism and free trade, and promote the sound and steady development of bilateral relations, He added. He also briefed the Swedish side on request on the latest round of China-U.S. economic and trade talks. Kristersson stated that Sweden attaches great importance to developing cooperation with China, firmly supports free trade and economic globalization, and is ready to use the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to deepen pragmatic cooperation in multiple fields and work to achieve more positive outcomes in Sweden-China relations. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Ashmore Mortgage and Financial Services Ltd have celebrated a huge milestone this week as they marked 20 years of business in Enniscorthy. Based in Templeshannon on the Quay, the business has flourished and has worked with Enniscorthy Credit Union, Bank of Ireland, Irish Life, Aviva, PTSB and many more. Kent Ashmore, who has over 32 years of experience in the industry, said that the team is grateful to have worked with and for local businesses and residents for over two decades, fostering great and lasting relationships. Kent also works beside Martin Redmond, who has been solution-driven all his 15 years in the business, as well as Niamh OBrien who has rounded out the team since she came on board in 2022. "Over the last two decades I have had the privilege with both Martin and Niamh of helping individuals, families, and business owners make decisions to protect themselves, their homes, their businesses and grow their wealth. From life cover to pensions and savings to serious illness protection and mortgages weve seen both professionally and personally how the right advice can change lives, he said. "What a journey it has been. Thank you to every client who has trusted us along the way. Your goals, dreams, and financial peace of mind have always been at the heart of what we do, he added. Irish Rail is set to confirm it will run additional services to Wexford to accommodate people travelling to Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann. The announcement which is due this week comes amid criticism from South East on Track that no extra services have yet been announced. South East on Track who advocate and campaign for better rail services in the region said: Last year, 50 additional services were put in place to bring people to and from Wexford for the week. There were similar additional services put in place for previous Fleadhs in Mullingar and Drogheda. Even this far out, many of the Wexford-Dublin services are beginning to book out for the Fleadh week. It's clear that the demand is there for far more services than five per weekday, and three at the weekends. With estimates that the Fleadh could bring almost 700,000 people to Wexford, the group is calling on Irish Rail to provide more services in an environmentally friendly manner. When contacted Irish Rails Head of Corporate Communications Barry Kenny said: We are working to arrange additional services for the Fleadh, as we did last year, and hope to be in a position to confirm service arrangements as early as possible this week. We had a very successful range of additional services last year and look forward to doing so again this year. Throughout the summer, we have sporting events, concerts and festivals week in week out, and provide additional services for these wherever possible. Wexford RNLI volunteers were forced to leap into action to save a teenager who got cut off by the rising tide while swimming to a raft in the Ferrycarrig area. The lifeboat was launched thanks to the quick thinking of the boys friend, who contacted the Coast Guard from the shore after he realised it was too dangerous for him to attempt to swim ashore from the raft, as he wasn't a strong swimmer. The Coast Guard then paged the Wexford RNLI who mobilised shortly before 5 p.m. on Friday and were on scene within 20 minutes. They quickly located the youngster and took him on board the lifeboat, bringing him safely ashore. The crew praised both teenagers for alerting the Coast Guard stating that the outcome could have been tragic had he attempted to swim ashore. Coincidentally, the rescue took place on World Drowning Prevention Day. Speaking after the rescue, helm Ger Doran said: This rescue perfectly demonstrates the correct action of calling the Coast Guard on 112/999 if someone is in difficulty on or near the water. Since the start of this year, there have been 42 drownings in Irish waters, thats 10 more people than for the same period last year. With the recent warm weather many people have headed to the water to socialise and cool off unaware of the dangers open water presents. Among the advice being given by Wexford RNLI is to check the weather and tides before heading out, be aware of currents, go to lifeguard beaches, wear a lifejacket, ensure children are supervised, let someone know your plans and always have the means to call for help, such as a fully charged phone or marine VHF radio. A number of cases were heard before Bray District Court and Wicklow Disctrict Court recently. A number of cases were heard before Bray District Court and Wicklow Disctrict Court recently. DPP delayed A man was remanded in custody following an alleged assault in Arklow earlier this month. Trevor Spellman (29), of 10 Kilmartin Drive, Tallaght, Dublin 24, was charged with trespassing and assault causing harm following incidents on July 21, 2025 at 22 St Bridgets Terrace, Arklow, and Abbey Street, Arklow, Co Wicklow. The court heard that Bray District Court were still awaiting directions from the DPP, due to Mr Spellmans period already spent on remand. Judge David Kennedy remanded Mr Spellman in custody until August 6, with him to appear at Bray District Court via video link on that day. Drunk woman given fine A woman was fined for engaging in threatening behaviour after a disturbance in Bray earlier this year. Jacqueline Fitzpatrick (43), of Ballywaltrim Heights, Bray, was charged with threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace on the January 26, 2025, at Flat 4, Seaview Court, Bray, Co Wicklow. Bray District Court heard that Ms Fitzpatrick began shouting and acting aggressively towards her partner, the gardai were called on the day of the incident and Ms Fitzpatrick hurled profanities aimed at An Garda Siochana. Ms Fitzpatricks solicitor told the court that his client was completely embarrassed, the incident occurred due to Ms Fitzpatricks excessive alcohol consumption and since the incident she has stayed completely sober. Judge David Kennedy imposed a 500 fine with a period of five months to pay. Pub assault A man was fined after an assault at a pub in Newtownmountkennedy last year. Vincent Kinsella (41), of 71 Rosmore Park, Newtownmountkennedy, Co Wicklow, was charged with assault on the October 16, 2024 at The Village Inn, Newtownmountkennedy, Co Wicklow. Council for Mr Kinsella told the court that Mr Kinsella has severe Cystic Fibrosis and was on a raft of medication at the time of the incident. His solicitor pointed out his stellar work history and a college degree and said that his client was extremely remorseful. He argued that his good record out weighs this incident and that Mr Kinsella had no previous convictions. The judge awarded a 500 fine to be paid within five months. Warrant vacated A man has had a warrant for his arrest for speeding in Glenealy last year withdrawn. Robert Baker OReardon, of 5 Alma Place, Monkstown, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, was charged with driving a mechanically propelled vehicle at a speed which exceeded the 50 km/h limit on April 4, 2024, at R752 Ballyduffwind, Glenealy, Co Wicklow. The court heard Mr OReardon was unable to attend Bray District Court due to already being incarcerated since the July 18 at Mountjoy Prison on an unrelated charge. The warrant was vacated and the matter adjourned until September 11, 2025. Trial date set A Wicklow man has been sent forward for trial on multiple charges. Joe McKeever (26), of 25 Hillview Estate, Ballyguile, Wicklow town, Co Wicklow, is facing several charges including criminal damage and threatening behaviour following an incident on the April 13, 2025 at 1 and 3 Hillview Estate, Ballyguile, Wicklow town, Co Wicklow. The book of evidence was served on Mr McKeevers council, with the accused appearing via video link. The case has been sent forward for trial for the next sitting of Wicklow Circuit Court on October 8, 2025. Judge David Kennedy remanded Mr McKeever in custody. Public order and drugs A man is facing a court hearing after being charged with public order and drugs offences in Bray. Demostene Braescu (42), of 25 Gardiner Place, Dublin 1, is charged with public order offences and possession of cannabis arising from two separate incidents on May 16, 2024 and June 26, 2025 at Strand Road, Bray, Co Wicklow and at Bray Garda Station. The judge adjourned the matter until September 15, 2025 to let Mr Demostene Braescu enter a plea of guilty or non-guilty. Multiple drug offences A woman is facing trial after being charged with drug possession for sale or supply in Bray. Ann Marie OHagan (43), of 16A Wolfe Tone Square West, Bray, Co Wicklow, was charged with two counts of possession of controlled drugs and one charge for the sale, or otherwise supplying it, to another on the October 5, 2024 at Apartment 158, Heather Hall, Kilruddery Glen, Bray, Co Wicklow. The court heard the book of evidence and the case was sent for trial at the next sitting of Wicklow Circuit Court on October 8, 2025. Judge David Kennedy issued Ms OHagan with an alibi warning, and the court had no objection to her bond. Ms OHagan was remanded on her own bond of 1,000. Self-reported A young Greystones man reported himself to gardai, the court has heard. Nick White (20) of 24 Delgany Glen, Greystones, Co Wicklow, appeared before the court in relation to a traffic offence, which occurred on July 13, 2024, in Bray, Co Wicklow. Bray District Court heard that it was a single vehicle crash, Mr White phoned An Garda Siochana himself after the incident. Mr Whites solicitor told the court he was going through some things in his life. He told the court of his clients remorse and that he was an apprentice still living at home with his parents, who were in court to support him. Judge David Kennedy was told Mr Whites blood alcohol was 78mg/100, which makes him over the legal limit. Judge David Kennedy sentenced him to a six-month diving ban and a 250 fine. He had some kind words for the defendant, saying that he was hoping he was doing okay now. Ban avoided A Wexford woman has avoided a driving disqualification. Olivia Connors (36) of Ballintray Lower, Riverchapel, Courtown, Co Wexford, appeared before the court in relation to a traffic offence, which occurred on March 23, 2024, at Ballyhenry, Co Wicklow. The court was told of Ms Connorss extensive history with driving without road tax or NCT. Ms Connorss solicitor told the court that his client was fully aware of the risk she was taking driving without the valid documentation and that she had obtained road tax and NCT for her current vehicle. Judge David Kennedy was informed that Ms Connor has seven kids, who were all dependent on her financially. He was informed that Ms Connors was seeking leniency. Judge Kennedy issued Ms Connors with a fine, telling her that if she comes before him again he will impose a driving disqualification. Bail application An Arklow man has been sent forward for trial over an incident in Roundwood last year. Terry Jameson (42) of 15 Ashfield, Arklow, Co Wicklow, appeared before the court in relation to an alleged incident of criminal damage and theft, which occurred on May 8, 2025, at Roundwood, Co Wicklow. A book of evidence was served in court and Mr Jamesons solicitors sought a bail application for Mr Jameson. He was remanded in custody until his hearing date on October 8 at Wicklow Circuit Court. Judge David Kennedy told the defendant that it was out of the District Courts jurisdiction and now in the hands of the Circuit Court judge. Bail continues A Bray man has been allowed to continue his bail. Gary Obrein (27) of 64 Ashlawn Court, Bray, Co Wicklow, appeared before the court in relation to a public order incident, which occurred on June 23, 2025, in Bray, Co Wicklow. The court heard Mr Obrein has other matters before the court and that he would be allowed to continue his bail under the same conditions. Judge David Kennedy adjourned to deal with all the matters together on September 2, 2025. Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme Donald Trump had warned both countries that trade deals would not go ahead if hostilities did not end Cambodias Prime Minister Hun Manet, centre, speaks during a press conference next to Thailands acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, centre right, and Malaysias Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim after talks in Putrajaya, Malaysia (Mohd Rasfan/Pool Photo via AP) Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an unconditional ceasefire starting at midnight, Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim said yesterday The ceasefire is a significant breakthrough to resolve five days of deadly border clashes that have killed dozens and displaced tens of thousands of people. Cambodian prime minister Hun Manet and Thai acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai hailed the outcome of the meeting and they shook hands along with Mr Anwar at the conclusion of the brief press conference in Malaysia. The fighting began on Thursday after a land mine explosion along the border wounded five Thai soldiers. Both sides blamed each other for starting the clashes, that have killed at least 35 people and displaced more than 260,000 people on both sides. Mr Hun Manet and Mr Wechayachai have agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire with effect from midnight local time, Mr Anwar said as he read out a joint statement. Mr Anwar, who hosted the talks as annual chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations regional bloc, said both sides have reached a common understanding to take steps to return to normalcy following what he called frank discussions. This is a vital first step towards de-escalation and the restoration of peace and security, he said. As part of the ceasefire deal, military commanders from both sides will hold talks today to defuse tensions while Cambodia will host a border committee meeting on August 4, he said. The foreign and defence ministers of Malaysia, Cambodia and Thailand have also been instructed to develop a detailed mechanism to implement and monitor the ceasefire to ensure sustained peace, he added. Mr Hun said he hoped that bilateral ties could return to normal soon so that 300,000 villagers evacuated on both sides could return home. It is time to start rebuilding trust, confidence and co-operation going forward between Thailand and Cambodia, he said. Mr Wechayachai said the outcome reflected Thailands desire for a peaceful resolution. The Malaysian meeting followed direct pressure from US President Donald Trump, who has warned that the US may not proceed with trade deals with either country if hostilities continue. The joint statement said that the US is a co-organiser of the talks, with participation from China. The Chinese and American ambassadors to Malaysia attended the meeting that lasted over two hours. In a press statement, US secretary of state Marco Rubio, who was involved in arranging the meeting, applauded the ceasefire declaration. Mr Rubio said he and Mr Trump are committed to an immediate cessation of violence and expect the governments of Cambodia and Thailand to fully honour their commitments to end this conflict. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt posted news of the ceasefire on X and wrote: President Trump made this happen. Give him the Nobel Peace Prize! Mr Wechayachai said after his return to Bangkok that Mr Trump had called to offer congratulations for making a move toward peace and said that Thailands talks with Washington to set tariff levels on Thai exports could now proceed and that he would seek to make them as favourable as possible. What we went through was horrific families angry after Swiss clinic helped Irish woman to die in secret despite its promises Europe Paris police arrest man on suspicion of multiple murders after four bodies are found in River Seine LATEST | Scores more killed by bombs and starvation in Gaza as Trump vows food aid Pregnant woman whose baby was delivered after her death but also diedIsraeli rights group calls out genocide Humanitarian aid is airdropped to Palestinians over northern Gaza Strip. Photo: AP Wafaa Shurafa Associated Press Tue 29 Jul 2025 at 06:32 Israeli strikes or gunfire killed at least 78 Palestinians across the Gaza Strip on Monday, including a pregnant woman whose baby was delivered after her death but also died, local health officials said. Dozens were killed while seeking food, even as Israel moved to ease restrictions on the entry of aid. A demonstrator takes part in a protest demanding an end to the war in Gaza and the release of all hostages, in Tel Aviv, Israel. Photo: Reuters Two prominent Israeli rights groups said yesterday their country is committing genocide in Gaza, the first time that local Jewish-led organisations have made such accusations against Israel during nearly 22 months of war. The claims by BTselem and Physicians for Human Rights-Israel add to a debate over whether Israels military offensive in Gaza launched in response to Hamass October 7, 2023 attack that killed about 1,200 people and took more than 250 hostage amounts to genocide. THE COMPLEX Gallery - Smithfield - July 25-Aug 12 "A QUESTION MARK HANGS OVER GAZA" is a powerful exhibition capturing the lived reality of children in Gaza. In 2025, the exhibition will travel across multiple countries, bringing these stories to new audiences. Produced by UNICEF with support from the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) "A QUESTION MARK HANGS OVER GAZA" presents striking images of Palestinian children as seen through the eyes of those who live alongside them every day. The exhibition calls attention to the urgent need for a ceasefire and a just, lasting solution for all children in the region, while also underscoring the vital assistance provided by ECHO and UNICEF. Amid the ongoing war, international journalists and photographers remain unable to independently access the Gaza Strip. In their absence, Palestinian journalists and photographers have become the sole witnessescapturing and conveying the unfolding reality. Through their lenses, the world has gained a vital, if limited, window into life on the ground. Beyond their photographs, their audio recordings have been essential in shaping the exhibitions soundscape. Every ambient sound is drawn from field recordings, with any missing or compromised audio meticulously reconstructed to remain faithful to the original environment. Vijay Sethupathi Vijay Sethupathi accused of exploiting woman who is now in Rehab Kollywoods drug and casting couch culture is not a joke. A girl known personally to the user, now a media personality, was allegedly dragged into this toxic environment. The girl is currently in a rehab center. The user claims the industry involves drugs, manipulation, and transactional exploitation, all disguised as industry norms. She alleges that Vijay Sethupathi (@VijaySethuOffl) offered: She accuses him of pretending to be a saint on social media while being exploitative in private. The girl was allegedly used by him for years. The user insists this is not an isolated incident but a widespread issue in the industry. She criticizes the media for glorifying such men. She concludes by saying the drug-sex nexus in the industry is real and not a joke. Why did Ramya Mohan delete the post after it went viral? Internet reacts to Vijay Sethupathi being accused of manipulation An old accusation on Vijay Sethupathi Why did Vijay Sethupathi apologise for a video of his son Surya chewing bubble gum? Actoris currently making headlines due to a shocking allegation. A social media user named Ramya Mohan has accused the actor of pretending to be a saint while allegedly being the opposite. In a now-deleted post on X, she claimed that Vijay Sethupathi offered her Rs 2 lakh for caravan favours. While there is no official confirmation regarding this, heres everything she alleged in her viral post.Heres all that Ramya Mohan claimed in her post.-Rs 2 lakh for caravan favors-Rs 50,000 for drivesAfter deleting the tweet in which she alleged the actor of multiple things she stated the reason why she did so. She wrote in another post, I shared that tweet out of frustration and to vent. Didnt expect it to get this much attention. Getting too many enquiries about it now. Out of concern for her privacy and wellbeing Ive decided to take it down. Hope thats respected.Before the tweet was deleted, the screenshot landed on Reddit with many people reacting to it.One wrote, I trust this person! People pretending to be Holier than thou online are the worst!. Another added, These are heavy allegations so idk if they should be trusted fully but Op in my personal experience moral posturing guys are usually the worst.A third went on to add, Nothing new at all. The ones who obsess over proving how humble or ideal they are are usually the complete opposite. In a Reddit thread that was shared months ago, some people talked about accusations or tea related to Vijay. One allegedly claimed, His wife fought with Aishwarya Rajesh and called her a homewrecker for which Aishwarya Rajesh told his wife that he is the one who is not leaving her and asked her to control her husband.Vijay Sethupathi recently addressed backlash over a video showing his son, Surya, chewing bubble gum while meeting fans at the premiere of Surya's debut film, Phoenix. The clip drew criticism online, with some viewers calling Surya's behavior arrogant. Sethupathi clarified that he didnt ask for the video to be removed and apologized to anyone who felt offended or misinterpreted the situation.It's important to note that neither Vijay Sethupathi nor anyone from his team has commented on the matter so far, so these remain unverified allegations and rumours. Willow demands to see her kids Drew gets mocked by Tracy Molly ends things with Cody, Kristinas role exposed Curtis tries to fix things with Nina Jason pushes Liesl for answers about Britt Britts unexpected visitor raises more questions Tuesdays episode ofis all set to shake things up with emotional confrontations, unexpected visitors, and secrets bubbling to the surface. From Willows desperation to see her children to Britts surprising visitor, each storyline leaves charactersand viewerson edge.Willow shows up at Carlys house feeling overwhelmed. She insists that Michael let her see her children, telling him she didnt go through with marrying Drew. But Michael doesnt budge. He worries that Willow is acting out of intense emotion and questions whether shes really done with Drew. Since hes seen Drews manipulative side, he suspects Willow might change her mind again.Meanwhile, Drew ends up at the Quartermaine mansion looking for Willow. Instead, he finds Tracy, who doesnt miss a chance to tease him. She jokes about him already losing his bride. Once it becomes clear that Willow discovered Drews link to Nina, Tracy and Cody cant help but laugh. Tracy feels Drew is finally getting what he deserves and seems to enjoy the moment.Molly confides in Alexis that shes cutting ties with Cody. Her budding connection with him has hit a wall, mostly due to Kristina stepping in. Kristina, on the other hand, is convinced Molly will move on quickly. But even if shes putting on a brave face, Molly might struggle more than she lets on.Curtis feels responsible for how things fell apart between Nina and Willow. He apologizes to Nina for speaking out, but she admits she was already planning to come clean. Later, Curtis and Portia offer support to Nina as she processes the fallout. Portia, having dealt with similar family troubles, seems to understand Ninas pain.Jason crosses paths with Liesl and brings up a sighting of Britt at the airport. He suspects she might still be alive and wants the truth. Liesl might drop just enough information to keep Jasons curiosity alive, making him even more determined to keep digging.Later in the episode, Brittvery much aliveis seen answering the door to someone she clearly wasnt expecting. I dont remember calling or texting you, she says, surprised. The person at the door appears to be Professor Hank, and their talk may involve a secret project the two are working on.As secrets unravel, Tuesdaysepisode leaves every character on uncertain ground, especially Brittwho may know more. One Piece manga August release schedule Eiichiro Oda One Piece manga August release schedule and break ( Image credit : Luffy in One Piece | Credit: X ) One Piece manga August release schedule and break One Piece chapter 1156 is scheduled to release worldwide on Sunday, August 3, 2025. There will be a break the following week, with no new chapter on August 10. The break is not due to Eiichiro Oda, but because Weekly Shonen Jump will observe a holiday on August 10. As a result, chapter 1157 will be released on Sunday, August 17, 2025. One Piece chapter 1156 predictions One Piece chapter 1156 will likely pick up from where the previous chapter ended. Rocks D. Xebecs goal has been revealed: he wants to take control of Pirate Island. Pirate Island is also known as the Island of Exiles. It was originally a place where criminals were sent. Things changed after a large gold reserve was found beneath the island. Now, the island is overrun with pirates and exiles. One Piece Chapter 1156 release date and time One Piece Chapter 1156 will be released this week. As usual, the chapter will drop on Sunday for most readers. In Japan, it will be available at 12 AM JST on Monday. International readers will see the chapter released on August 3, 2025. Where to read One Piece manga for free? FAQs When is One Piece Chapter 1156 releasing? Will there be a break after Chapter 1156? When will Chapter 1157 be out? What can we expect in Chapter 1156? : With One Piece deep into its climactic final saga, fans are closely following each chapter's release. As August 2025 approaches, anticipation is high for the next developments in Luffy and the Straw Hats journey. Weekly Shonen Jump has officially unveiled the mangas release calendar for the month, including any potential breaksmight take. Heres all you need to know.The chapter will be officially available for free on Manga Plus.August 3, 2025 (Sunday worldwide).Yes, no chapter on August 10 due to a Weekly Shonen Jump holiday.August 17, 2025 (Sunday).Rocks D. Xebec plans to take over Pirate Island, now overrun with criminals after gold was discovered there. Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: Also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, one of the most important Hindu festivals, will be celebrated with great devotion across India, especially in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Goa. This auspicious festival marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity known as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. In 2025, Ganesh Chaturthi falls on Wednesday, August 27 and will conclude with Ganesh Visarjan on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, where devotees immerse Ganesha idols in water. Lets explore the Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 date, its history, rituals, and deeper cultural significance, along with the important details you need to know. Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 Date and Timings Here are the key dates and timings for Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: Event Date Time Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 Date Wednesday, August 27, 2025 - Chaturthi Tithi Begins Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 1:54 PM Chaturthi Tithi Ends Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at 3:44 PM Ganesh Visarjan (Anant Chaturdashi) Saturday, 6 September 2025 - Where Is Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrated? Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 image | Credit: Freepik Ganesh Chaturthi isn't a public holiday but yet it is celebrated with great enthusiasm in many parts of the country like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. Some states like Gujarat and Telangana also observe this occasion with devotion. Despite its regional nature, the festive spirit is unmatched, and many businesses, educational institutions, and local communities organise celebrations even if it is not an official day off. Story of Ganesh Chaturthi According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva, had created a boy using sandalwood paste. She shaped the paste into a child and gave him life. This boy was Ganesha, and she asked him to guard the door while she took a bath. When Lord Shiva came home, he wanted to enter, but young Ganesha, following his mothers orders, stopped him. Shiva, didn't aware that he was his son and got angry and in a moment of rage, cut off his head. When Maa Parvati saw what had happened, she was heartbroken and angry. She insisted that Ganesha must be brought back to life. To calm her, Lord Shiva promised to restore the boy. He asked his followers to find the head of the first living being they saw, which happened to be an elephant. Shiva placed the elephants head on Ganeshas body and gave him life again. From then on, Ganesha was known as the elephant-headed god and was blessed with wisdom, knowledge, and the power to remove all obstacles. Why Is Ganesh Chaturthi Significant? Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 image | Credit: Freepik Ganesh Chaturthi holds great religious and cultural significance. Devotees believe that Lord Ganesha brings good fortune, success, and wisdom. He is worshipped at the start of any new venture, be it a marriage, business, or exam. This celebration is also seen as a time to foster community spirit, share joy, and invite positivity into ones life. In 2025, this festival becomes even more relevant as people across the country seek blessings for progress, health, and harmony. Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 Rituals and Traditions Here are the main rituals associated with Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: 1. Idol Installation (Pranapratishtha) The festival begins with the installation of clay idols of Lord Ganesha in homes, public pandals, schools, and colleges. Special rituals are performed to invite the divine presence into the idol. 2. Daily Worship (Puja) Devotees perform daily puja for the idol by offering flowers, fruits, incense, lamps, and the popular sweet modak, believed to be Ganeshas favourite. 3. Naivedya and Offerings Modak, a steamed or fried dumpling filled with jaggery and coconut, is a symbolic offering. It represents the sweetness of life and the reward of devotion. 4. Mantras and Bhajans Chanting of Ganesh mantras and singing devotional songs is a daily practice during the ten-day celebration. These activities create a spiritually uplifting atmosphere. 5. Immersion Ceremony (Ganesh Visarjan) The grand finale of the festival, known as Ganesh Visarjan, takes place on Anant Chaturdashi. Idols are immersed in rivers, lakes, or the sea, accompanied by processions, dancing, and chants like Ganpati Bappa Morya. The Meaning Behind Ganesh Visarjan Ganesh Visarjan holds deep symbolic value. It represents the cyclical nature of life, from birth to dissolution. Since Lord Ganesha is believed to be formed from clay, his immersion in water symbolises the return of the deity to the natural elements and the cosmos. Devotees believe that during the ten days of Ganesh Chaturthi, Lord Ganesha visits their homes, removes obstacles, and then returns to his celestial abode, promising to return the next year. As the 2025 celebration draws closer, start preparing your puja essentials, decorations, and prayers. May Lord Ganesha remove all hurdles and bring prosperity into your life this Ganesh Chaturthi. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: Wishes, Messages and WhatsApp status to share with loved Ones Wishing you joy, peace, and Ganpati Bappas blessings this Ganesh Chaturthi. As you bring home Ganpati, may he light the way toward brighter days and deeper connections with loved ones. Ganpati Bappa Morya! May Lord Ganesha bless you with all the happiness & success. Greetings on Ganesh Chaturthi! As rains bless the Earth, likewise, may Lord Ganesha bless you with never-ending happiness. Keep smiling and chanting Ganapati Bappa Morya! Happy Vinayak Chaturthi Lets welcome Bappa with a heart full of love and devotion. Ganpati Bappa Morya! Wishing you a Ganesh Chaturthi filled with joyous celebrations, meaningful prayers, and infinite blessings. Modak for energy and taste, Boondi Laddoo to drown your sorrows, and Peda to relish worldly offerings. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! May the Lord Vighna Vinayaka remove all obstacles and shower you with luck and prosperity. Happy Vinayak Chaturthi. To the one whos always there, may Bappa bless your path with happiness. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! May Ganesha's blessings make every day a little brighter and your heart a little lighter. Ganpati Bappa Morya! On this occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, I wish Lord Ganpati visits your home with bags full of happiness, prosperity, and peace. May God give you a rainbow for every storm, a smile for every tear. A promise for every care and an answer to every prayer. Wishing you a happy Ganesh Chaturthi. On this Ganesh Chaturthi, may your home be filled with positivity and divine blessings. Ganpati Bappa Morya! May the remover of obstacles guide your path toward success and happiness. On this holy occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi 2025, lets welcome Bappa with love and devotion. Ganpati Bappa Morya! May this Ganesh Chaturthi bring endless happiness to all. May the blessings of Bappa always stay with you, today and forever. Sending warm wishes to you and your family on this auspicious Ganesh Chaturthi. Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi with devotion in your heart and positivity in your mind. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2025! May your home be filled with peace, positivity, and divine blessings. On this Ganesh Chaturthi, may Lord Ganesha bless you with wisdom and endless joy. Lets welcome Lord Vighnaharta into our homes and hearts. Happy Ganesh Sending you heartfelt wishes on Ganesh Chaturthimay your life always be as sweet as modaks. This Ganesh Chaturthi, may Bappas blessings always stay with you and your family. FAQs: Q. When is Ganesh Chaturthi in 2025? This year, Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. Q. When is Ganesh Visarjan in 2025? Ganesha Visarjan will be observed on Anant Chaturdashi on Saturday, September 6, 2025 Q. Is Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 holiday? No, Ganesh Chaturthi is not a public holiday Q. What are the most popular names of Lord Ganesha? Lord Ganesha has 108 names, including some most popular are Vighnaharta, Ganapati, Alampata, Bhupati, Chaturbhuj, Devavrata, Ekadanta, Gadadhara, Bhalchandra, Omkara and more Disclaimer: The dates and timings mentioned for Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 are based on available Hindu calendar data and are subject to change as per regional Panchang. Devotees are advised to consult local priests or calendars for precise muhurat and rituals. International Tiger Day 2025: Every year, International Tiger Day, also known as International Tiger Day, is observed on 29 July to raise awareness about the importance of protecting tigers and their natural habitats. In 2025, this important day continues to echo the urgent call for tiger conservation and wildlife protection worldwide. Launched in 2010 during the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit, the day unites governments, wildlife organisations, schools, and individuals around the globe to save one of natures most iconic big cats. Each year, the Global Tiger Forum announces a special theme and message to guide celebrations and awareness campaigns. While the official theme for International Tiger Day 2025 is yet to be declared, but past slogans like Roar for Tigers and Save Tigers, Save Forests, Save Life have inspired millions. These themes play a key role in shaping school events, eco-club activities, community outreach, and digital campaigns. Why International Tiger Day Matters Tigers are not just majestic creatures they are crucial for maintaining the balance of ecosystems. Sadly, they are also endangered. Over the last century, the global tiger population has plummeted due to poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict. Once roaming freely across Asia, tigers are now confined to small patches of forest. There are only around 3,265 tigers left in India, according to worldostats. This day reminds us that saving tigers means saving nature. Protecting tigers also helps preserve thousands of other species and maintains healthy forests that provide clean air and water. Global initiatives like Project Tiger in India, the TX2 goal (to double wild tiger numbers), and transboundary conservation efforts have shown positive results, but theres still a long road ahead. Top Wishes and Messages to Share on International Tiger Day 2025 Spread awareness and love for tigers by sharing these heartfelt wishes and messages: International Tiger Day Image | Credit: Freepik Lets roar together for tiger conservation Happy International Tiger Day 2025! Saving tigers means saving the planet. Celebrate Tiger Day with purpose. Tigers are the pride of our forests. Lets protect them before they vanish. Join hands to protect the stripes that protect our ecosystems. Be a voice for the voiceless Save Tigers, Save Nature. Tigers dont need cages, they need forests. Happy International Tiger Day! A International without tigers is a International without balance. Choose conservation. Lets celebrate the spirit of the wild Happy Tiger Day 2025! The roar of the tiger is the call of the wild lets answer it with action. Raise your voice before the roar goes silent. May the forests echo with tiger roars for generations to come. Protecting tigers is not an option its a responsibility. Tigers represent strength and survival lets keep them alive. This Tiger Day, lets promise a safer jungle for our future generations. Every tiger saved is a step closer to a healthier Earth. Inspirational International Tiger Day Quotes 2025 Check out these quotes to inspire others and fuel the movement for tiger protection: International Tiger Day Image | Credit: Freepik "When we save the tiger, we save the forest, and in turn, save ourselves." "A healthy tiger population is a sign of a healthy ecosystem." "Tigers are not trophies. They are guardians of the wild." "The roar of the tiger is a cry for help are you listening?" "Extinction is forever. Lets not let it happen to tigers." "Our planet is wild and beautiful lets keep it that way." "Saving tigers isnt charity, its a necessity." "The jungle whispers in stripes. Lets preserve its voice." "Protecting wildlife is protecting life." "No forest is complete without its tiger." "The strength of the tiger lies in its freedom." "Tigers dont need zoos, they need forests." "Be fierce like a tiger when it comes to saving nature." "One Earth. One Roar. One Chance." "Roar for the tigers who cant speak for themselves." Catchy Slogans for International Tiger Day 2025 Perfect for posters, campaigns, school banners, or social media captions: International Tiger Day Image | Credit: Freepik Roar for the Wild! Stripes Are Not for Sale. Save Tigers, Save Life. No Tigers, No Jungle. Be Fierce Protect Tigers. Let the Roar Continue. Dont Let the Jungle Fall Silent. Act Now. Roar Forever. Protect the Predator, Preserve the Planet. Give Tigers a Fighting Chance. A Tigers Roar is Earths Call. Tigers Belong in Forests, Not Frames. Stripes in the Wild, Not in Memories. Your Voice Can Save a Tiger. Roar Together for Tiger Conservation. Let the Roar Be Heard International Tiger Day Image | Credit: Freepik International Tiger Day 2025 is more than a celebration its a movement. Tigers are on the brink, but with united efforts, their fate can change. Whether youre a student, teacher, activist, or nature lover, your voice matters. This International Tiger Day, take a moment to share a message, wear a slogan, post a quote, or support a tiger conservation project. Every little action counts. Lets raise awareness, spread the message, and keep the forests roaring one tiger at a time. Use #InternationalTigerDay2025 and #SaveTigers on social media to amplify your message! For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events. Kerala lottery result today, July 29, 2025: Kerala Lottery Result Today, July 29, 2025: The highly anticipated Sthree Sakthi SS-478 lottery draw results are all set to be out today. The draw is held at Gorky Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram, starting at 2:55 PM with the official announcement expected by 4:30 PM. The top prize for this draw is 1 Crore, followed by second and third prizes of 30 lakh and 5 lakh respectively, along with several other prize categories and a consolation prize of 5,000. Lottery enthusiasts can check the complete list of winning numbers and prize details here, with live updates to help winners verify their tickets and claim their prizes safely within the stipulated time. Kerala lottery winning numbers, July 29, 2025: Sthree Sakthi SS-478 Below is the required Kerala Sthree Sakthi SS-478 lottery winning numbers, July 23, 2025 listed: First Prize (1 Crore): TBU Consolation Prize (5,000): TBU Second Prize (30 Lakhs): TBU Third Prize (5 Lakhs): TBU Fifth Prize (2,000): TBU Sixth Prize (1,000): TBU Seventh Prize (500): Eighth Prize (200): TBU Ninth Prize (100): TBU How to check Kerala lottery result today online? To check the Kerala lottery result today online for the Sthree Sakthi SS-478 draw on July 29, 2025, you can follow these steps: Visit the official Kerala State Lotteries website at www.keralalotteries.net. Live updates for today's lottery draw start at 2:55 PM, and the official full result is published by 4:30 PM. Alternatively, you can check results at other trusted websites like result.keralalotteries.com or keralalotteryresult.net, which also publish live and official Kerala lottery results including PDF versions for verification. On these sites, look for the "Sthree Sakthi SS-478" lottery result for the July 29, 2025 draw. The winning numbers and prize details will be displayed. Refresh the page after the official publish time to see the updated and confirmed winning numbers. Following these steps online will allow you to reliably check today's Kerala lottery results as soon as they are announced. Kerala lottery prize details 2025: Sthree Sakthi SS-478 Below is the required Kerala lottery prize details 2025 for Sthree Sakthi SS-478 listed: Prize Level Number of Winners Prize Amount () 1st Prize 1 10,00,00,000 2nd Prize 5 10,00,000 3rd Prize 5 5,00,000 4th Prize 5 3,00,000 5th Prize Multiple (by digits) 5,000 6th Prize Multiple (by digits) 1,000 7th Prize Multiple (by digits) 500 8th Prize Multiple (by digits) 250 Consolation Prize 4 1,00,000 Kerala lottery result today: How to claim your prize? To claim a Kerala lottery prize, keep your winning ticket safe and sign your name and address on its back to avoid misuse. For prizes up to 1 lakh, claim at the district lottery office with the original ticket. For prizes above 1 lakh, submit your signed ticket along with a claim form, identity proof (such as Aadhaar or voter ID), PAN card copy, and passport-sized photos to the Director of State Lotteries, Kerala. Prizes over 10 lakh require approval from the Finance Department. Claims must be made within 30 days of the draw. Note that winnings over 10,000 are subject to a 30% tax deduction. Kerala lottery result live: What time are Sthree Sakthi SS-478 results published? The live draw for the Sthree Sakthi SS-478 lottery result is all set to be conducted at Gorky Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram, starting around 2:55 PM IST. Live updates begin from this time, and the official, full winning numbers are published by approximately 4:30 PM IST on draw day. Next Sthree Sakthi SS lottery date and time The Sthree Sakthi lottery draws are typically held weekly on Tuesdays. Since today is Tuesday, July 29, 2025, the next draw for the Sthree Sakthi SS series is scheduled for Tuesday, August 5, 2025, with the draw taking place at the usual time around 2:55 PM IST followed by official result publication by 4:30 PM IST. FAQs 1. When will the Kerala lottery result today, July 29, 2025 for Sthree Sakthi SS-478 be announced? Answer: The Kerala lottery result for Sthree Sakthi SS-478 will be declared live today at 3 PM, with the official full result published around 4:30 PM IST. 2. How can I check the Kerala lottery result today for Sthree Sakthi SS-478 online? Answer: You can check today's Kerala lottery result for Sthree Sakthi SS-478 on the official Kerala State Lotteries website that provide live updates and PDF results. 3. What is the first prize amount in the Kerala Sthree Sakthi SS-478 lottery? Answer: The first prize for the Sthree Sakthi SS-478 lottery draw today is 1 Crore, with second and third prizes of 30 lakh and 5 lakh respectively. 4. How to claim the Kerala lottery prize if I win in the Sthree Sakthi SS-478 draw? Answer: Winners can claim prizes up to 1 lakh at district lottery offices by submitting the signed original ticket. For prizes above 1 lakh, submit additional documents to the Directorate of State Lotteries within 30 days. 5. When is the next Kerala Sthree Sakthi lottery draw after July 29, 2025? Answer: The next Sthree Sakthi SS lottery draw after July 29, 2025, is scheduled for Tuesday, August 5, 2025, with draw time around 3 PM at Gorky Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram. Disclaimer: The above mentioned data is based on information available from official online sources. We do not endorse or promote any lottery or Teer games. Please play responsibly and verify results through official channels. For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events. Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Lok Sabha as part of the ongoing special discussion on Operation Sindoor. He confirmed that all three terrorists linked to the April 22 Pahalgam attack were killed in a joint security operation. The session in the Lok Sabha will conclude with a speech from Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 7 pm, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to lead a 16-hour debate in the Rajya Sabha. Attackers in Pahalgam identified and neutralised Shah stated that the terrorists killed in the recent Operation Mahadev were the same individuals responsible for the Pahalgam attack. The three men identified as Suleman, Afghan, and Jibran were neutralised by a joint effort of the Indian Army, CRPF, and Jammu and Kashmir Police. All three terrorists Suleman, Afghan and Jibran were killed in yesterdays operation, Shah said, adding, The individuals who were providing them with food were earlier taken into custody. Once the bodies were brought to Srinagar, the detained individuals identified them. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during Special Discussion on Indias strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor. https://t.co/uMPdAYiwU6 Amit Shah (@AmitShah) July 29, 2025 Security forces ordered to stop terrorists from escaping Shah informed Parliament that security forces were instructed to ensure that the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam incident could not escape the country. Security agencies worked meticulously to confirm the identities of the terrorists before the operation, he said. Amit Shah in beast mode pic.twitter.com/EJZhHQ30sf Being Political (@BeingPolitical1) July 29, 2025 Brutality of attack and aftermath condemned Shah strongly condemned the Pahalgam attack, where innocent tourists were killed in front of their families after being asked about their religion. What happened in Pahalgam was brutal, he said. I express condolences to the families of the victims. He further added that the attack had wider consequences. In retaliation to Operation Sindoor, Pakistan fired at civilian areas. Religious sites like gurdwaras and temples were damaged, and several civilians were affected, he said. The Parliament session continues with key discussions on national security. PM Modi is scheduled to address the House by 7 pm. DelhiDehradun expressway news: India is gearing up for the grand opening of the DelhiDehradun Expressway, a major infrastructure project that promises to transform travel between the national capital and the capital of Uttarakhand. This new route is designed to make the journey quicker, smoother, and far more convenient than ever before. Reduce Travel Time Between Delhi and Dehradun Once fully operational, the DelhiDehradun Expressway will reduce travel time from over 6 hours to just 2 to 2.5 hours. Currently, a road trip between Delhi and Dehradun can take up to 6.5 hours, depending on traffic. However, the new expressway will significantly reduce the travel time, allowing for a quick and uninterrupted travel across a distance of 210 km. Phased Development of the DelhiDehradun Expressway The expressway has been strategically planned in four phases, and it incorporates several modern engineering features to improve both speed and safety. Phase 1: A 32-kilometre elevated section from Akshardham in Delhi to Baghpat. This stretch can be covered in just 25 minutes. Phase 2: A 118-kilometre greenfield corridor from Baghpat to Saharanpur, which includes more than 60 underpasses and 4 major interchanges. Phases 3 & 4: These phases include a 14 km dedicated wildlife underpass to ensure safe animal crossings and preserve wildlife movement without disrupting traffic. In total, the expressway features flyovers, sound barriers, service lanes, and multiple safety measures to ensure smooth and uninterrupted travel. DelhiDehradun Expressway Opening Date Revealed According to an official announcement made in the Rajya Sabha by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, the first phase of the DelhiDehradun Expressway is expected to open to the public by August 2025. The complete expressway, covering the full 210 km stretch, is likely to be fully operational by October 2025. This opening date marks a significant milestone in Indias expressway network, connecting East Delhi to Dehradun via Baghpat, Shamli, Muzaffarnagar, and Saharanpur. DelhiDehradun Expressway Toll Rates Toll charges on the DelhiDehradun Expressway will vary depending on the section used by commuters. However, as per initial reports: The first 18 km stretch from Akshardham to Loni will remain toll-free, offering relief to daily commuters and local travellers. to will remain toll-free, offering relief to daily commuters and local travellers. Beyond Loni, toll rates will apply based on the distance covered, which is standard practice on access-controlled highways. Exact toll rates are yet to be finalised, but travellers can expect a pricing system aligned with other national expressways. DelhiDehradun Expressway Top Speed For safety and efficiency, the top speed limit on the DelhiDehradun Expressway has been set at 100 km/h. This will ensure faster travel without compromising road safety. Modern surveillance systems, including CCTV monitoring and speed sensors, are expected to be installed to enforce the speed limit and improve traffic management. Key Benefits of the DelhiDehradun Expressway Massive reduction in travel time between Delhi and Dehradun The separation of existing national highways and city roads Increase in eco-tourism and connectivity in Uttarakhand Dedicated underpass for wildlife conservation State-of-the-art design for safer and smoother travel Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Total Cost and Infrastructure Investment The total estimated cost of building the DelhiDehradun Expressway is around Rs 12,000 crore. This investment is part of the government's broader initiative to enhance national connectivity and create world-class road infrastructure. The DelhiDehradun Expressway is all set to revolutionise road travel in North India. With its expected opening date in October 2025, affordable toll rate, and top speed of 100 km/h, this high-speed expressway is not just a faster routeits a symbol of Indias growing focus on smart, safe, and sustainable infrastructure. Stay tuned for updates on the official toll charges and phase-wise openings. FAQ: Q. When will the Delhi-Dehradun expressway open? It is expected to be fully operational from October 2025. Q. Whats the cost of building the Delhi-Dehradun expressway? The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, built at a cost of around Rs 12,000 crore To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending. Google is all set to unveil the much-awaited Pixel 10 at its annual Made by Google event. The launch is scheduled for August 20, 2025, and will be live-streamed globally. Tech enthusiasts worldwide are eager to see what upgrades and innovations the Pixel 10 brings, especially in areas like AI integration, camera performance, and Android 15 support. This article covers everything you need to know about the launchevent time, date, expected features, and how to watch it live in India and other Tier 1 countries. Here's your complete guide to the Google Pixel 10 launch event. Google Pixel 10 event date, and time in India, Dubai, and USA The launch event for the Google Pixel 10 is approaching, and we will see the debut of four new Pixel phones: Google Pixel 10. For those who don't know, the Made by Google Event is scheduled for August 20, 2025. On August 20, the Google Pixel 10 launch event will take place in the USA at 1:00 PM ET. For live streaming, the event will kick off in Dubai at 9:00 PM GST. The event will kick off at 10:30 PM, as per Indian standard time. How to watch the Google Pixel 10 launch event live? According to the Indian standard time, the event will begin at 10:30 PM | Credit: X/@pixeluibygoogle Anyone wishing to view the live stream can do so via Google's official YouTube channel. What to expect from the Google Pixel 10 launch event? The Google Pixel 10 launch event will take place, featuring four new models: the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold As most devices in this series will feature a chassis similar to that of their predecessors, we are not expecting a design revolution. Nonetheless, the gadget will feature the Google Tensor G5 chip, ensuring a turbocharged performance in conjunction with high RAM and sufficient storage. There are also claims that the camera system in the base variant will be significantly reduced in capability, so that the Pro phones appear to be the heroes of the series. The base variant will feature a significant change: it will include a three-sensor setup, featuring a telephoto shooter. Head Over Heels episode 12 release date and time: As Head Over Heels prepares to drop its twelfth and final episode, fans are bracing themselves for an emotional farewell to one of 2025s most enchanting K-dramas. Since its premiere on June 23, the series has slowly unravelled a heartwarming supernatural love story, blending high school drama with spiritual folklore and heartfelt performances. Anchored by Cho Yi Hyun (All of Us Are Dead) and Choo Young Woo (Mercy for None), the dramas unique love story has turned it into a hit. Whether it was Gyeon Woo's cursed fate, Seong Ah's double life as a shaman, or the spirit worlds rules constantly shifting under their feet, Head Over Heels never let up on the drama. Now, with one episode left, the intrigue has reached its peak. Will love conquer fate, or will destiny take its due? What is Head Over Heels about? Head Over Heels follows Park Seong Ah, a high schooler who lives a double life as Fairy Cheon Ji, a shaman with real spiritual power. Her job is to guide lost souls and protect the living, but everything changes for her when she meets Bae Gyeon Woo, a new transfer student whos cursed by something bigger than bad luck. Instead of stepping back, Seong Ah breaks every rule in the shaman world and decides to save him. The deeper she gets, the more she uncovers about Gyeon Woos strange fate, the spirit thats clinging to him, and how their pasts might already be connected. The drama blends high school romance with heavy supernatural energy. Rituals, possessions, ancient curses, and ghost encounters arent just part of the background; theyre central to everything. And at the heart of it all is a story about fighting fate, risking everything for love, and trying to hold on when the universe wants to pull you apart. Head Over Heels episode 11 recap In episode 11 of Head Over Heels, General Dongcheon, Yeom Hwas spirit mother, sacrifices herself to protect her daughter from the Grim Reaper. Seong Ah, devastated but determined, decides to press on with her mission to save both Yeom Hwa and Gyeon Woo. She arranges a park date with Gyeon Woo, not as a romantic gesture but as a setup to draw out Bong-su, the spirit currently possessing him. After successfully luring the spirit, Seong Ah disappears without explanation. The story then moves forward in time, revealing Gyeon Woo as a national archery champion who still cant let go of her. Ignoring Yeom Hwas warnings, he continues to search for Seong Ah by tracking restless spirits. Near the end, a woman identical to Seong Ah appears, kisses him, and reveals she isnt who she seems. It becomes clear that Bong Su is now using Seong-ahs face to get close to Gyeon Woo, setting up the stage for a tense and complicated finale. What to expect from Head Over Heels finale Episode 12 is expected to tie together the emotional, spiritual, and romantic threads the series has been carefully weaving. Gyeo Woo and Yeom Hwa are expected to return to the shrine in a desperate attempt to save Seong Ahs spirit. At the same time, the false Seong Ahlikely Bong-sus spirit in disguiseis growing stronger, hinting at a full takeover. Theres also speculation of a stronger role for Gyeon Woo in the spirit worldpossibly as a guide or protector. The final scene may jump forward again to show how their choices ripple into the future, whether or not they get a romantic reunion. Head Over Heels episode 12 release date and time Here are the zone-wise release timings for Head Over Heels episode 12 (Finale) on Tuesday, July 29, 2025: South Korea (KST) 8:50 PM India (IST) 5:20 PM Philippines (PHT): 8:50 PM Indonesia (WIB): 7:50 PM Thailand (ICT): 6:50 PM Japan (JST): 8:50 PM China (CST): 7:50 PM United Kingdom (BST): 12:50 PM United States (EDT): 7:50 AM United States (PDT): 4:50 AM Australia (AEST): 9:50 PM New Zealand (NZST): 11:50 PM Germany/France (CEST): 1:50 PM UAE (GST): 3:50 PM Where to watch: South Korea: tvN, TVING International: Amazon Prime Video (in available regions, usually streaming within a few hours of Korean broadcast) For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here. Kim Kardashian has once again stepped into the true crime spotlight, this time after being deeply shaken by Netflixs new documentary Amy Bradley Is Missing. The three-part series unravels the eerie disappearance of Amy Bradley, who vanished without a trace from a Royal Caribbean cruise in 1998. Kim, who is known for her legal reform efforts and passion for justice, took to Instagram with an emotional post, urging her followers to tune in and help bring attention to the decades old mystery. Kim Kardashian reacts to haunting Netflix case about Amy Bradley | Credit: X/FBIWFO Kim Kardashian reacts to haunting Netflix case Kim called the documentary mind blowing and said it left her shaken. According to her post, she found the whole thing terrifying and insisted that more people need to watch and talk about it. She declared it is time to find Amy a call to action that quickly caught the attention of her massive fanbase. Who was Amy Bradley and what happened? At just 23, Amy had recently graduated from university and set sail with her family, her parents Ron and Iva, and her younger brother Brad, on what was supposed to be a relaxing Caribbean holiday. But on the early morning of March 23rd, 1998, Amy vanished. She had returned to her cabin around 3:35am after partying at a nightclub onboard. By 6:15am, she was gone. No note. No trace. Just silence. Despite an intense search involving helicopters and coast guards, not a single piece of evidence was recovered. Coast Guard official Henry Vrutaal stated in the doc that it was the biggest search they had ever conducted, yet they found nothing. The island of Curacao, where the ship had docked, offered no answers. Kim is hooked on true crime, and wants answers This is not the first time Kim has spoken out about a haunting true crime case. She recently shared her reaction to Amazon Primes One Night In Idaho, which follows the 2022 university murders that shocked the nation. She admitted she was overwhelmed by the pain of the victims families and was left emotionally drained after watching it. In March 1998, Amy Lynn Bradley vanished from a cruise ship during a family vacation in the Caribbean. #FBIWFO continues to investigate her disappearance. If you have information that could lead to her recovery, call your local #FBI office or the nearest U.S. Embassy. pic.twitter.com/njmw2PGytQ FBI Washington Field (@FBIWFO) July 22, 2025 Whether she is studying law or watching Netflix crime docs, Kim is clearly not one to scroll past injustice. With her massive platform behind it, the Amy Bradley case might just get the renewed attention it desperately deserves. In a recent IPO-related disclosure, Lenskart Solutions has stated that one of its co-founders, Sumeet Kapahi, is currently unable to trace his Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree and related marksheets from the University of Delhi. This detail came to light in the companys Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) submitted to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) on July 28. The DRHP is a preliminary document required by SEBI from any company looking to go public. It provides essential information about the business, its financials, management, and possible risk factors, although it does not include the final share price or number of shares being issued. Lenskart has disclosed in its IPO filing that a company promoter hasn't been able to locate his college degree -- and the university isn't responding. pic.twitter.com/WjxjK7Mn2R Manish Singh (@refsrc) July 29, 2025 What Lenskart said in the risk disclosure Under the Internal Risk Factors section of the DRHP, Lenskart clearly mentioned the issue with Kapahis educational documentation. The company wrote: One of our Promoters, Sumeet Kapahi, who is also the Global Head of Sourcing of our Company, has been unable to trace the copies of his B.Com (Hons). degree and marksheets from the University of Delhi. According to the filing, Kapahi has taken several steps to retrieve the documents. These include sending multiple emails and a formal letter to the university, as well as applying for copies of his marksheets through the universitys official online portal. However, as of now, he has not received any response. The document further adds: Accordingly, reliance has been placed on certificates furnished by him to us and the BRLMs to disclose details of his educational qualifications in this Draft Red Herring Prospectus. The company also acknowledged that there is no assurance whether the missing documents will be recovered in the future. Who is Sumeet Kapahi? Sumeet Kapahi is one of the four co-founders of Lenskart, alongside Peyush Bansal, Neha Bansal, and Amit Chaudhary. He has been with the company since September 2011 and currently serves as the Global Head of Sourcing. Lenskart was originally incorporated in 2008 as Valyoo Technologies Private Limited. Over the years, it has grown into one of Indias leading eyewear brands with a strong online and offline presence. His compensation ahead of the IPO Despite the issue with his educational records, Kapahi continues to hold a senior leadership role at Lenskart. The company has disclosed that his compensation for the financial year 20242025 stands at 22.46 million, or 2.24 crore. This compensation disclosure, combined with the missing academic documents, was part of the company's broader risk and transparency commitments made in the DRHP before its public listing process. As Lenskart prepares to enter the public market, this unusual disclosure about a promoter's missing academic records adds a unique note to its IPO journey. While no wrongdoing has been alleged, and all necessary filings have relied on available certificates, the company has been transparent in stating that there is no guarantee the documents will be found in the future. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending. Rymir Satterthwaite, the man who has long claimed to be the secret son of rap mogul Jay-Z, has pulled the plug on his most recent federal lawsuit, though he insists the battle is far from over. On 18 July, court records confirmed that Satterthwaite officially withdrew the case, marking another dramatic twist in a saga that has stretched back to 2010. Man claiming to be Jay-Zs secret son drops federal lawsuit | Credit: x/sleezeSTAN Decade-long paternity drama takes another turn Over the weekend, Satterthwaite took to social media to tell his side of the story. He explained that he had indeed withdrawn the lawsuit, but hinted at larger forces at play, claiming there is a lot going on behind closed doors. He maintained that the case was just one of many moving parts and emphasised that he still had not received a DNA test from Jay-Z, nor had he accepted a settlement. Chile #JayZ is doing everything but taking that DNA test . He just filed two 40-page motions asking the judge to dismiss #RymirSatterthwaites paternity case again. Hes claiming the court doesnt even have the right to hear it. Jays legal team also asked the judge to pic.twitter.com/zoG8xxwJH8 TeaWithTia (@RealTeaWithTia) July 19, 2025 Jay-Z says enough is enough Jay-Zs legal team, meanwhile, is not holding back. In their latest court response, they argued that Satterthwaite and his legal guardian had been filing frivolous lawsuits for years. The rappers lawyers pointed out that a different man was legally declared Satterthwaites father back in 1994, and that the courts had repeatedly rejected the claims against Jay-Z. Man claiming to be Jay-Zs secret son drops federal lawsuit | Credit: x/sleezeSTAN They described the newest complaint as a blatant attempt to bypass a 2022 court injunction that banned Satterthwaite from filing any further related lawsuits in New Jersey without prior approval. That injunction, according to court documents, was issued after multiple attempts to revive the paternity claim had already failed. Satterthwaite insists theres more to the story Despite being hit with legal setbacks, Satterthwaite remains adamant. In a statement to Us Weekly, he claimed he was never properly informed of the injunction and that all orders issued in New Jersey courts were being appealed. He continues to allege that Jay-Zs legal team engaged in fraud to block due process and avoid a paternity test. Rymir Satterthwaite, the man claiming JAY-Z is his father, says his fight is not over yet! If you recall, he recently dropped his paternity case against JAY-Z pic.twitter.com/Ecu4pmexke No Jumper (@nojumper) July 27, 2025 He also pushed back against claims his mother had identified another man as his father, saying she was a minor at the time of his birth and still stood by her account that Jay-Z is his biological dad. Rymir Satterthwaite plans to refile a civil lawsuit against Jay-Z but not for a paternity test. Like before, hell be seeking money instead. Now people are questioning his true intentions: Is he after the truth about his father, or just chasing a payday? pic.twitter.com/uowXGblgrt Pop Fusion HQ (@PopFusionHQ) July 24, 2025 What happens next? Jay-Z, who shares three children with Beyonce, has never publicly acknowledged Satterthwaite. Though this case may be closed, the long-running drama is far from done. If Satterthwaites next chess move is anything like his past plays, this legal saga might just resurface once again. Maria Gabarro, a Spanish collector from Terrassa near Barcelona, may not have liked real dogs, but that didnt stop him from creating the worlds largest collection of dog figurines. His impressive collection of 5,025 dog-themed items including figurines, cuddly toys, and even walking sticks with dog-head handles has earned him a spot in the Guinness World Records, as reported in Reuters. A Hobby That Started in His 60s Gabarro, who worked as a sales manager, began collecting dog figurines in his 60s. Despite not being fond of actual dogs, he developed a deep interest in collecting miniature representations of them. Over the years, he visited markets, fairs, and antique shops across Spain to find unique pieces for his collection. A Tribute After His Passing Maria Gabarro is pointed in a picture while Gabarro's relatives and friends count dog figurines for the Guinness World Record in Terrassa | Credit: Reuters Maria Gabarro passed away last year at the age of 94. Following his death, his family decided to honour his passion by applying for a Guinness World Record. His children counted all the items meticulously, and to their delight, Gabarro's collection was officially recognised as the largest of its kind. The Dog Figurine Collection Now Lives On The collection was stored across two of his homes in Terrassa. His daughter, Teresa Gabarro, 54, shared that while her father wasnt keen on live dogs, he adored the inanimate versions. She even lets her own West Highland White Terrier play with the soft toys from the collection, blending both worlds together. (My parents) really liked the non-real dogs, but not the live ones. Teresa Gabarro told Reuters. An Unusual Passion Recognised Worldwide Gabarro's name will now forever be remembered in the Guinness World Records, thanks to his unusual but fascinating passion for dog figurines. His story reminds us that sometimes the quirkiest hobbies can become record-breaking legacies. With inputs from agencies To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking in Lok Sabha during the ongoing special discussion on Operation Sindoor, defended the military action taken in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. The attack had claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists. Modi rejected claims of international pressure on India, stating clearly that no leader in the world asked India to stop its operations. Modi also responded to allegations by Congress and its allies regarding the ceasefire with Pakistan. The PM refuted suggestions that the United States played a mediating role, countering opposition claims that US President Donald Trump had repeatedly claimed to broker peace. Congress and its allies have unfortunately become spokespersons of Pakistani propaganda, he said. Terrorism wont be spared, says Modi Addressing the Pahalgam terror attack, the Prime Minister called it the height of cruelty. He emphasized that India would not spare terrorism or those behind it. According to Modi, after the attack, India launched Operation Sindoor as a direct military response. The perpetrators of terrorism wont be spared, he said. PM Modi in Parliament: "NO leader of the world asked us to STOP our action." PM Modi dismisses US President Donald Trump on India-Pakistan Ceasefire claims. #ModiGovtAgainstTerror #NarendraModi pic.twitter.com/ZyDyEM6Ut2 A D V A I T H (@advaithspeaks) July 29, 2025 He further added that Pakistans Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) had reached out pleading, saying: Dont hit us anymore, we cant suffer any longer. Response to opposition's charges on ceasefire and Trump In response to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, who questioned why Operation Sindoor was halted within 22 minutes and dared Modi to call Donald Trump a liar, the PM said that the decision to stop was India's own. Modi reiterated that India did not bow to any external pressure. No country in the world has stopped India from taking any action in its defence, he said, adding that India showed the world we will not bow to nuclear blackmail. He also said that the world supported Indias actions, but the opposition questioned them. Referring to the U.S. Vice Presidents call on May 9, Modi said, He warned me of a big attack from Pakistan. I told him that our response would be bigger. We will respond to bullets with cannons. If PM Modi has even 50% of the courage Indira Gandhi had, let him make a statement in parliament that Trump is a liar, US didn't force a ceasefire, and we didn't lose any fighter planes. - Shri @RahulGandhi pic.twitter.com/ugNqnDsEga Congress Kerala (@INCKerala) July 29, 2025 Defence minister, Shah back operation; Opposition fires back Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in Rajya Sabha that Operation Sindoor was not only a message to Pakistan but also to its supporters. He added that if Pakistan cannot handle terrorism, India is ready to help. Home Minister Amit Shah said in Lok Sabha that Operation Mahadev, conducted shortly after, neutralised three Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack. Shah stated that all three were A-Grade terrorists on the National Investigation Agencys radar. Meanwhile, Congress leaders including Priyanka Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge questioned the government on the ceasefire terms and the lack of security personnel at the Pahalgam site. Priyanka Gandhi asked why no forces were present to prevent the attack, while Kharge raised questions about repeated U.S. claims of ceasefire mediation. Akhilesh Yadav, SP criticise ceasefire announcement route Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav also joined the criticism, questioning why the ceasefire was first announced via social media, pointing to Donald Trumps post on Truth Social. He suggested that diplomatic communications should not rely on such channels. Modi says world saw a new India In his concluding remarks, PM Modi said the world witnessed the strength of Atmanirbhar Bharat during the operation. He claimed that Indias armed forces were given full freedom and made sure masters of terrorism cant sleep peacefully anymore. He termed this aggressive stance against terror the new normal. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending. Rajasthan JET Result 2025: As of today, Tuesday, July 29, 2025, the Rajasthan JET Result 2025 is expected to be officially release on the website jetskrau2025.com. Candidates who appeared for the Rajasthan Joint Entrance Test (JET) 2025, including Pre-PG and PhD entrance exams, can check their scorecards by logging in with their application number and date of birth. The JET 2025 result announcement is expected to be scheduled for 5 PM today, and it includes subject-wise marks, total marks, and qualification status. This JET 2025 result is crucial for admission into various undergraduate and postgraduate agriculture courses in Rajasthan. The Agriculture University, Jodhpur, conducts the exam and handles the results and counselling procedures. How to check Rajasthan JET Result 2025? Follow these easy steps to download your scorecard and view your Rajasthan JET 2025 result: Visit the official website: jetskrau2025.com Click on the link for JET/Pre-PG/PhD Result 2025 on the homepage. Enter your login credentials (Registration ID, Password, Date of Birth, or Roll Number) as prompted. Click the Submit button. Your scorecard and result status will appear on the screen. Download your scorecard and take a printout for future admissions and counselling. Rajasthan JET 2025: Direct result links Official Result Portal: jetskrau2025.com Scorecard, OMR sheet, and rank can all be accessed through the result dashboard after logging in. FAQs 1. When was the Rajasthan JET Result 2025 declared? Answer: The Rajasthan JET Result 2025 will be declared on July 29, 2025. The result date was revised from earlier announced schedules due to administrative reasons. 2. Where can I check my Rajasthan JET 2025 result? Answer: Candidates can check their JET 2025 result on the official website, jetskrau2025.com. The login portal will require your registration credentials to access your marks and rank. 3. What details are needed to download the JET 2025 scorecard? Answer: You will need your Registration ID/Roll Number and Password or Date of Birth to log in and download your scorecard from the official portal. 4. What should I do if I forget my login credentials? Answer: Use the Forgot password? option on the login page at jetskrau2025.com. Follow the instructions to reset your password using your registered email or mobile number. 5. What are the next steps after checking the JET result? Answer: After downloading your scorecard, keep it safe for the forthcoming counselling and admissions process. Only candidates who qualify as per their score and rank will be eligible for participating universities admission rounds and seat allotment. For more information on exams, results and careers, please visit Indiatimes Education. Erin Burnett, one of CNNs most recognisable anchors, is at the centre of a social media storm after a comment made during the live coverage of the Park Avenue mass shooting. Burnett referred to the suspected shooter, Shane D. Tamura, as possibly white, prompting instant criticism from viewers who accused the network of pushing an inaccurate narrative. CNNs Erin Burnett slammed for shooter race assumption | Credit: Instagram/erinburnettoutfront CNN ANCHOR GUESSES MANHATTAN SHOOTER "POSSIBLY WHITE" Erin Burnett looked at security footage of Park Avenue shooter Shane Tamura and declared him "possibly white" on air. The footage showed a man with dark hair and complexion. Initial police description said possibly https://t.co/UfVsnByS1X pic.twitter.com/RlLzGpFGrp Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) July 29, 2025 CNN anchor sparks uproar over shooter description The backlash erupted after the first photos of Tamura, heavily armed and wearing sunglasses, began circulating online. Despite early police descriptions pointing to a possible Middle Eastern background, Burnett stated on-air that the suspect had sunglasses, a moustache, was male, and possibly white. CNNs Erin Burnett slammed for shooter race assumption | Credit: Instagram/erinburnettoutfront Viewers slam CNNs racial assumption X (formerly Twitter) users wasted no time calling out Burnett and CNN. One user claimed the anchor had completely disregarded clear footage that showed a man with a darker complexion. The criticism was sharp: people accused the network of prioritising assumptions over verified facts. Who was Shane Tamura? The gunman who killed NYPD officer, then himself | Credit: X/sarcasm_scoop Another user sarcastically reminded viewers that CNN brands itself as the Most Trusted News and mocked the comment by calling the report fake news. Others voiced frustration that mainstream media continues to push narratives instead of reporting accurately. pic.twitter.com/UebW4B3u3T This is who CNN called a "white male"#ActiveShooter 33rd Floor 27 year old Shane Tamura Ape (@CubanOnlyTrump) July 29, 2025 POV: CNN after realizing NYC shter Shane Tamura isnt white. pic.twitter.com/9S0K23cAQ9 The Outlaw Patriot (@OutlawPatriotX) July 29, 2025 CNN: Shane Tamura is possibly white All of us: pic.twitter.com/U3l05MVjEp Doug Harvin (@RealDougHarvin) July 29, 2025 CNN: the shooter Shane D Tamura is probably a white male Everyone: pic.twitter.com/wjBP4Lyo7x FANATIC AMERICAN (@crusade_enjoyer) July 29, 2025 JUST IN: CNNs Erin Burnett will be featured in the upcoming Netflix documentary to discuss the life of white supremacist shooter Shane Tamura starring Jack Harlow! First class! pic.twitter.com/TabGMlTUkp Truth_teller (@Truthtellerftm) July 29, 2025 Critics demanded more accountability, questioning why media outlets often leap to racial identifiers, even when clear evidence or official reports suggest otherwise. Who is Erin Burnett? While the controversy unfolds, many are also asking, who exactly is Erin Burnett? A veteran journalist, Burnett currently hosts Erin Burnett OutFront on CNN. Before her time at CNN, she worked at CNBC as a co-anchor and has also held positions at Bloomberg Television and Goldman Sachs. CNNs Erin Burnett slammed for shooter race assumption | Credit: Instagram/erinburnettoutfront Burnett, originally from Maryland, studied political economy at Williams College. She has reported from numerous conflict zones including Iran, Egypt, Pakistan, Iraq, and Israel. Her career spans over two decades and includes high-profile interviews and global financial reporting. Still, this latest backlash might be one of her most contentious on-air moments yet. Whether CNN or Burnett herself will respond remains to be seen, but the online noise is growing louder by the hour. Press Conference/Rally to Protest APPLE, INC.Stop Poisoning Residents, Public Places And Workers at Apple PlantStop Retaliation Of Workers & Full Staffing Of CA OSHA To Protect WorkersSat, Aug 16, 2025 12:00pm - 2:00pm | US/PacificPRESS CONFERENELOCATION: Apple Inc. Semiconductor chip manufacturing plant in Santa Clara, 3250 Scott Blvd, Santa Clara, CAApple executives are illegally operating the semiconductor chip manufacturing plant (herein after "the plant" next to a residential housing complex, senior care center, grocery store, and public playground. Apple reported releasing toxic chemicals like benzene, mercury, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde into the air -- but city records show even more chemical spills and leaks that were never reported to the community (including deadly phosphine, silane, and fluorine gases).The US EPA inspected Apple's plant in 2023 and found extensive hazardous waste violations. In June 2025, US EPA notified Apple they plan to take enforcement action against them over their hazardous waste operations at the plant. And an air quality Board has also cited Apple for air pollution and operating without air pollution permits at the plant.The plant never went through the normal permitting process or environmental studies, and the City of Santa Clara covered-up reports of illness from multiple residents next to the plant. Multiple people reported chemical exposure health issues to the government starting in at least 2021, and the city did nothing. One resident, Ashley Gjovik, has active civil claims against Apple over employment retaliation due to her reporting Apple's hazardous waste emissions in 2020-2021. On June 30 2025, Gjovik also gave notice to US EPA, Apple, city of Santa Clara, and the property owner of an incoming private right of action suit under five environmental statutes. Gjovik's sixty-day notice also includes notice of a public nuisance claim against all three parties and intention to request the court to shut down the plant until it can come into compliance with environmental, health, & safety laws.As of today, the plant continues to operate and risk the health and safety of everyone inside and around it. We're meeting on 8/16 to protest the existence of this plant producing hazardous waste next to homes and parks, and demand that the city order the plant to stop operations. Meet us there (and bring an N95 in case Apple is exhausting more pollution into the air!Don't let Apple Inc. get away with a flimsy settlement with EPA amounting to a mere slap on the hand!! We must ensure everyone is breathing safe air, drinking safe water and not allow Apple Inc. to continually pay settlement money to get government leaders to cover this up year after year!!Safety before Profits!! Labor & Community Have A Right To Health And SafetyEnough Is EnoughStop Poisoning Residents, public places & workers at or near the Apple plantStop Retaliating against Apple WhistleblowersEndorsed ByWhistler Blowers United WBUCalifornai Coaliton For Workers Memorial DayWorkWeek, United Front Committee For A Labor Party UFCLPFederal Court Allows Major Retaliation Claims Against Apple to Proceed; NLRB Charges Apple with Labor Violations for Suspending & Firing MeOn February 27, 2025, the U.S. District Court ruled that my retaliation and labor law claims will move forward, rejecting Apples attempt to dismiss them. This decision represents a major step toward holding Apple accountable for its retaliation, whistleblower suppression, and workplace safety violations, and it sets an important precedent for corporate accountability, labor rights, and environmental justice. You can read the full court decision here.The court ruled that Apple failed to dismiss my core claims (see my complaint), confirming that my allegations are legally viable and must proceed toward trial. The decision also recognizes the extraordinary nature of Apples retaliation, allowing me to seek penalties (special damages) for labor violations, a rare ruling in an individual lawsuit. This means Apple could now face financial liability, beyond traditional damages, for violating labor laws.The court also confirmed that I have a valid claim that Apple retaliated against me for reporting environmental crimes, a key issue in this case. In 2020, Apple was secretly operating a semiconductor fabrication facility near my home, illegally venting hazardous and carcinogenic chemicals into the air (read more here). These exposures severely harmed my health. Apple not only failed to disclose its environmental violations but retaliated against me for raising concerns about the exposures, obstructed my ability to seek accountability, and attempted to cover up its involvement in my harm. The courts ruling affirms that my Crime Victim Retaliation claim under California Labor Code 230(e) will proceed. This may be the first time a workplace retaliation case has successfully invoked Californias Crime Victim Protection laws. The court denied statutory penalties for this claim due to my later discovery of Apples role in the pollution, but the underlying cause of action remains intact.In addition, the court ruled that Apple must face liability for retaliating against me for reporting violations of environmental and workplace safety lawsincluding my disclosures about hazardous conditions at my Apple office, which was built on a Superfund site (read more here). The court expressly rejected Apples arguments to dismiss these claims, ensuring that Apple must answer for its unlawful conduct. Notably, the court also ruled that I can seek special damages (penalties) under 1102.5, which is unusual in individual labor lawsuits.The court also allowed my claims under California Labor Code 6310 (workplace safety retaliation) and 98.6 (general employment retaliation) to proceed. This includes Apples retaliation against me for filing complaints with California labor agencies, the NLRB, OSHA, the EPA, and other regulators; for discussing workplace conditions, safety hazards, and wages; and for engaging in legally protected speech. The ruling ensures that Apple must answer for its efforts to suppress workplace concerns and punish employees for exercising their rights.One of the most significant aspects of the courts ruling is its decision to allow my California Labor Code 1102.5 whistleblower retaliation claim to move forward with a privacy-based whistleblower claim, something that is very rare. Courts often dismiss privacy-related retaliation claims under 1102.5 because they do not fit the traditional framework of whistleblower disclosures. However, I successfully argued that Apple retaliated against me for opposing its illegal surveillance, unethical medical experiments on employees, and unlawful AI-driven data collection practices. This is the first known case in which a 1102.5 claim is based on protesting non-consensual human research and AI-related privacy violations. I alleged that Apple was secretly collecting employees' biometric and psychological data for AI development, engaging in deceptive human subject research, and violating medical ethics and California privacy laws. The courts ruling confirms that retaliation for exposing these practices qualifies as whistleblower retaliation under 1102.5, setting a groundbreaking precedent for AI ethics, privacy, and labor rights.The court also upheld my legislative witness retaliation claim under California Government Code 9149.4, which protects employees from retaliation for providing testimony to legislative bodies. This claim is particularly significant because very few cases have successfully invoked legislative witness protections in employment retaliation lawsuits. I alleged that Apple retaliated against me after I engaged with lawmakers and government agencies regarding environmental hazards and corporate misconduct. The ruling affirms that employees have the right to participate in the legislative process and report corporate wrongdoing without fear of retaliation. This decision reinforces strong protections for whistleblowers who assist in policy reform and government investigations, ensuring that corporations cannot silence employees.Another highly unusual win is the courts decision to allow my California Labor Code 96(k) retaliation claim to proceed. Most attorneys fail to meet the constitutional rights requirement of 96(k), and courts routinely dismiss these claims. However, I successfully argued that Apple retaliated against me for exercising fundamental rights protected by the California Constitution, including my right to privacy (Article I, Section 1) and my rights as a victim of crime (Article I, Section 28). Specifically, I alleged that Apple punished me for protesting unlawful workplace surveillance, speaking out about Apples toxic chemical exposure that made me a crime victim, and advocating for crime victims rights. The courts decision allows this rarely successful claim to move forward, reinforcing employee protections against corporate retaliation for lawful off-duty speech and advocacy. This ruling strengthens protections for employees who speak publicly about workplace misconduct, privacy violations, and environmental crimes, ensuring that corporations cannot weaponize termination to silence those who expose their wrongdoing.In my case, the court also recognized that Californias environmental laws, including the California Hazardous Substances Act, the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act (Proposition 65), and federal laws like CERCLA (Superfund) and the Clean Air Act, embody fundamental public policies designed to protect public health, worker safety, and the environment. The fact that my wrongful termination claim under Tameny is moving forward on the basis of environmental violations is highly unusual and reinforces the growing recognition that environmental protections are not just regulatory requirements but core societal values. Additionally, whistleblower retaliation claims under Labor Code 1102.5 rarely proceed on environmental law violations alone. However, the courts ruling in my case affirms that employees who report environmental hazards, especially those that pose a risk to public healthare protected under both Californias general whistleblower statute and common law wrongful termination protections. This decision sets a critical precedent that corporations cannot retaliate against employees for exposing toxic pollution, illegal hazardous waste disposal, or other environmental crimes.The courts ruling allows me to seek a broad range of damages against Apple, including penalties, punitive damages, injunctive relief, compensatory damages, and declaratory relief. Notably, the court approved penalties under California Labor Code 1102.5 and 98.6, which is highly unusual in an individual lawsuit. Typically, only Californias Labor Commissioner or PAGA lawsuits seek statutory penalties, but I can now pursue them directly against Apple, including $10,000 per violation of whistleblower protections and labor retaliation laws. Additionally, the court upheld my right to seek punitive damages, which are reserved for cases involving malicious or reckless misconduct. Apple now faces significant financial liability beyond standard lost wages and emotional distress damages, as punitive damages serve to punish and deter corporate retaliation and legal violations.The ruling also allows me to pursue injunctive relief, which could force Apple to reform its employment policies and workplace safety practices. This could include court-ordered protections for whistleblowers, mandatory disclosures about hazardous workplace conditions, and external oversight of Apples compliance with labor laws. Beyond financial penalties, I am also entitled to compensatory damages for lost wages, emotional distress, medical costs related to chemical exposure, and reputational harm caused by Apples retaliation. The court has further allowed me to seek declaratory relief, establishing a legal record that Apple violated my rights. This ruling is a major step toward holding Apple accountable for its labor violations, workplace safety failures, and corporate misconduct, ensuring that its unlawful practices cannot simply be hidden behind a settlement.Recent court precedents and legislative changes in California significantly strengthen my case and increase the likelihood of success on multiple claims. The California Supreme Courts decision in Lawson v. PPG Architectural Finishes, Inc. (2022) confirmed that Labor Code 1102.5 whistleblower retaliation claims must be analyzed under Labor Code 1102.6s burden-shifting framework, which favors employees by placing the burden on employers to prove, by clear and convincing evidence, that they would have fired the employee for independent reasons. Additionally, People ex rel. Garcia-Brower v. Kollas Inc. (2023) expanded the definition of disclosure under 1102.5, protecting employees even if their employer was already aware of the violations. Similarly, the Ninth Circuits ruling in Killgore v. SpecPro Professional Services, LLC (2022) held that internal reports to a supervisor without corrective authority still qualify as protected disclosures, further strengthening my case.Recent legislative changes further increase Apples legal burden. Senate Bill 497 (2024) amended Labor Code 1102.5 and 98.6 to create a rebuttable presumption of retaliation if an employer takes adverse action within 90 days of an employees protected activity. Because I was fired well within that timeframe, Apple now bears the burden of proving, by clear and convincing evidence, that my termination was unrelated to my whistleblowing. Additionally, California recently amended Labor Code 230(e) to make crime victim retaliation a standalone claim, reinforcing the legal significance of my precedent-setting case. These legal developments, combined with the courts decision to allow my claims to proceed, make it much more difficult for Apple to escape liability for its retaliation, workplace violations, and environmental misconduct.In addition, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has formally charged Apple with violating federal labor law over my 2021 suspension and termination. The NLRBs complaint alleges that Apple unlawfully threatened me, placed me on leave, suspended me, and terminated my employment in retaliation for protected speech and workplace organizing. In addition, based on my October 2021 charges, the NLRB has also found that Apple maintains unlawful employment policies restricting employee speech and organizing, which have broader implications for Apples workforce. If the NLRB prevails, Apple could be ordered to reinstate me with back pay, rescind its unlawful policies, apologize to me, and take corrective action to prevent future retaliation. Read more about the NLRB case here.This case is about more than just Appleit is about whether corporate employers can violate labor laws with impunity, whether whistleblowers can be silenced without consequence, and whether companies can conceal environmental and workplace safety violations by retaliating against those who speak out. The courts ruling confirms that Apple will be held accountable under California law, and the NLRBs prosecution will determine whether Apple also violated federal labor laws. Apple has spent years trying to shut this lawsuit down, but this ruling confirms that my claims are legally valid and must be heard. With this decision, my case moves into discovery and trial preparation, and I will now expand my pending Ninth Circuit appeal to challenge the wrongful dismissal of my Toxic Tort and Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED) claims, in addition to my RICO, Cal. Biz & Prof. Code 17200, breach of contract, Dodd-Frank, and SOX whistleblower claims. The case against Apple is far from over, and I will continue pushing for justice and accountability.For the past several years, I have been supporting myself financially on my own, funding this legal battle while covering basic living expenses without income for most of the period. I exhausted my savings, maxed out my credit cards, and am now declaring bankruptcy. My unemployment insurance does not even cover my rent, yet it still counts as "income," disqualifying me from government assistance. As a result, I no longer have health insurance because I cannot afford the premiums. Donations are deeply appreciated to help cover legal expenses, including Westlaw, discovery software, and drafting tools, as well as basic living expenses while I continue this fight. If you would like to contribute, please visit: http://www.ashleygjovik.com/donate.html . Thank you for your support it truly makes a difference.I appreciate all of the support from those following this case. I will provide further updates as the case progresses. If you have any media inquiries or would like to discuss these developments further, feel free to reach out.Ashley Gjovik, BS, JD, PMPMajor Labor Rights Victory: Apple Compelled to Rescind Unlawful Employee Policies Nationwide Following My NLRB Case https://www.ashleygjovik.com/blog/04082025-nlrb-win-apple-compelled-to-rescind-unlawful-policies-nationwide ]( https://www.ashleygjovik.com/blog/04082025-nlrb-win-apple-compelled-to-rescind-unlawful-policies-nationwide April 8 2025Silicon Valley, CA Today marks a watershed moment for corporate accountability and employee rights. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has finalized a nationwide settlement with Apple Inc., requiring the tech giant to rescind a series of unlawful workplace policies that suppressed lawful employee activities. This action follows years of determined advocacy on my part, after I blew the whistle on Apples practices.The settlement forces Apple to overhaul its internal rules governing employee speech, privacy, and workplace rights changes that apply to all Apple employees across the United States. Notably, this is the first public labor settlement of its kind Apple has ever executed.Under this agreement, Apple must:Post public compliance notices on both its internal intranet and external websites, visible for at least 60 days.Rescind or revise overly broad policies concerning confidentiality, proprietary information, workplace searches, public communications, and employee discipline with explicit clarifications that employees have the right to discuss wages, working conditions, unionizing, and whistleblower activities.Submit direct proof of compliance to the NLRB and me, including screenshots, certification forms, and evidence of internal updates.Cease using surveillance policies to monitor protected employee activities.Apple once claimed its policies were untouchable but this settlement proves otherwise. They fired me under these same unlawful policies. This is more than personal vindication its a historic precedent for every tech worker silenced by overreaching corporate controls.A Case of Corporate Denial vs. Legal RealityWhile Apple refuses to admit liability under the settlement terms, their agreement to overhaul these policies is a clear acknowledgment of prior violations. Importantly, Apple will provide direct compliance documentation a rare and powerful accountability measure.In my Statement of Joinder to the NLRB agreement, I made clear:I preserve all legal claims. The settlement does not resolve my pending federal lawsuits, other NLRB cases, Department of Labor whistleblower complaints, or SEC filings related to Apples misleading disclosures to shareholders.I challenged Apples pattern of public deception. Apple previously denied in court, regulatory filings, and to investors that these policies were problematic even as it secretly negotiated this settlement to rescind them.I called for transparency. I continued to press for Apple to publicly disclose its revised policy language and compliance materials, for the benefit of employees and the public.This isnt over. Apple cannot quietly fix its policies behind closed doors and pretend none of this happened. Workers deserve full transparency. Shareholders deserve honesty. Regulators must ensure accountability.Message to Apple Employees NationwideIn a personal message included in my official NLRB filing, I spoke directly to Apples workforce: To every Apple employee: you now have clear, formal confirmation that discussing your pay, conditions, or organizing is protected by law. If youre told otherwise: they are wrong. And you have the right to report it. Keep records. Know your rights. No corporation is above the law not even Apple.Implications for Tech Industry and Corporate GovernanceThis resolution sends a resounding message across Silicon Valley and beyond: overbroad corporate policies that chill lawful employee speech and organizing will not stand. The case also highlights risks for corporate governance, as Apples misleading statements to the SEC and courts remain under scrutiny in my parallel proceedings.Apple will remain under NLRB monitoring, and future violations of the agreement could trigger renewed enforcement actions.Resources for Apple Employees:File an NLRB charge: [ http://www.nlrb.gov ](x-webdoc://6F30B41F-95B2-4346-940C-016524984A1A/ http://www.nlrb.gov Contact Ashley Gjovik: [ legal [at] ashleygjovik.com ](mailto: legal [at] ashleygjovik.com (Note: Gjovik is not acting as legal counsel, but as a resource for peers navigating similar issues.)Case References:NLRB Case: 32-CA-284428Related Cases: 32-CA-282142, 32-CA-283161, 32-CA-284441Settlement Agreement (PDF): [ https://www.ashleygjovik.com/uploads/1/3/7/0/137008339/set.32-ca-284428.apple_set_ag_signed_certified.pdf ]( https://www.ashleygjovik.com/uploads/1/3/7/0/137008339/set.32-ca-284428.apple_set_ag_signed_certified.pdf Statement of Joinder (PDF): [ https://www.ashleygjovik.com/uploads/1/3/7/0/137008339/set.32-ca-284428.apple_-_charging_party_letter_and_joinder.pdf ]( https://www.ashleygjovik.com/uploads/1/3/7/0/137008339/set.32-ca-284428.apple_-_charging_party_letter_and_joinder.pdf Blog Post: [ https://www.ashleygjovik.com/blog/04082025-nlrb-win-apple-compelled-to-rescind-unlawful-policies-nationwide ]( https://www.ashleygjovik.com/blog/04082025-nlrb-win-apple-compelled-to-rescind-unlawful-policies-nationwide Media Contact: Ashley M. Gjovik, [ legal [at] ashleygjovik.com ](mailto: legal [at] ashleygjovik.com ), [ http://www.ashleygjovik.com ](x-webdoc://6F30B41F-95B2-4346-940C-016524984A1A/ http://www.ashleygjovik.com Im Ashley M. Gjovik a lawyer, researcher, systems architect, and internationally recognized whistleblower. Formerly a senior engineering program manager and chief of staff at Apple Inc., I now champion corporate accountability, worker rights, anti-corruption, and public transparency in the tech industry.Democratic Governor Newsom Killing Cal OSHA & Harming Worker SafetyCalifornia OSHA inspectors dont visit worksites even when workers are injured https://calmatters.org/politics/2025/07/california-osha-inspections-state-audit/?_gl=1 *1g6valp*_ga*MTUxMDkyNDE5LjE3NTMxNDAxMDU.*_ga_5TKXNLE5NK*czE3NTMxNDAxMDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTMxNDAxMDQkajYwJGwwJGgw*_ga_DX0K9PCWYH*czE3NTMxNDAxMDQkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTMxNDAxMDQkajYwJGwwJGgwAvatar photoBY JEANNE KUANGJULY 19, 2025A person carries a large plastic bucket filled with produce on their shoulder while working in a field of green crops during harvest. Surrounded by others bending over the plants, the individual wears a long-sleeve shirt, hat, and face covering for sun protection. A tractor and trailer are visible in the background under the warm early morning or late afternoon light.Farmworkers harvest banana peppers at a farm near the town of Helm on July 1, 2025. Photo by Larry Valenzuela,IN SUMMARYNearly a third of Cal/OSHA positions were vacant last year. A new state audit found that caused the agency to skip in-person inspections, even when workers were injured.Welcome to CalMatters, the only nonprofit newsroom devoted solely to covering issues that affect all Californians. Sign up for WhatMatters to receive the latest news and commentary on the most important issues in the Golden State.Californias worker safety agency is under-inspecting workplaces after accidents and worker injuries, failing to enforce labor regulations in a way that may undermine them because it does not have enough employees to do the inspections, a state audit found.In a review of the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health published Thursday, state auditors found understaffing was a primary factor leading inspectors to skip in-person inspections of worksites even in cases where auditors found and division managers agreed it was likely warranted.Nearly one-third of the divisions 800-plus positions were vacant last year, a rate that is even worse in some district offices and among some of the staff responsible for inspections and enforcement.When it does perform inspections, Cal/OSHAs process has critical weaknesses, state auditor Grant Parks wrote.The weaknesses, he wrote, included inspectors failing to review employers required injury prevention plans, document notes from interviews with workers, initiate inspections quickly and ensure employers had addressed alleged hazards before closing a case file.State law allows Cal/OSHA to inspect workplaces in-person proactively, after accidents or in response to a complaint. But it only mandates inspections for workplace deaths or serious accidents, generally defined as those requiring inpatient hospital care or resulting in serious permanent disfiguration.Enforcement staff first determine if the complaints are valid, and then often choose to inspect by letter instead, which involves writing to employers asking them to investigate the complaints themselves and document how theyve addressed hazards.Last year out of more than 12,000 complaints, the agency found 87% valid; staff inspected just 17% of those workplaces in person rather than investigating by letter. Out of 5,800 workplace accidents, the agency deemed 42% serious enough to send an inspector.Auditors found staff didnt always investigate a complaint or inspect a worksite when they should have.In one case, a union representative filed a complaint saying that construction workers were riding on heavy machinery on the road with no seat belts, and another worker was hanging off the side of the vehicle, in danger of falling and being hit in oncoming traffic. Cal/OSHA declined to investigate because the incident was on a public road and therefore outside the agencys jurisdiction. But the audit found the agency should have opened the complaint because workers were riding in a company vehicle activity covered by workplace safety regulations.Auditors reviewed another complaint from a kitchen worker who was taken to the ER by ambulance, possibly from heat illness. The worker reported poor ventilation, broken air conditioning and temperatures that reached 90 degrees indoors. Despite agency policies requiring on-site inspections for serious hazards involving current employees, and for any heat-related complaints, Cal/OSHA sent the employer a letter. Auditors reviewing the case records found the employer had not responded.Serious injuries investigated by letterThe audit also highlighted two injuries that Cal/OSHA said werent serious enough to inspect in person; in one, a worker was cut by a chainsaw, requiring surgery and an overnight hospital stay, and in another a worker was knocked out when hit in the head and suffered a skull fracture, but was not formally admitted to the hospital.In the chainsaw case, managers told auditors the worker was wearing protective equipment so there was less reason to suspect workplace violations. In general, the audit found that managers overwhelmingly reported understaffing as the reason for not inspecting.The agency, the audit noted, doesnt have a complaint form on its website. To file a complaint, workers must call or email a Cal/OSHA district office, or fill out a complaint form on the federal OSHA website.The audit places further pressure on Cal/OSHA and its beleaguered parent agency, the Department of Industrial Relations, to deal with a trenchant staffing problem that advocates and lawmakers say renders some of the strictest worker protections in the nation toothless.It comes a year after a similar audit of the Labor Commissioners Office, also a part of that department, which found workers complaining to the agency about wage theft were waiting more than two years on average to get their claims resolved six times longer than the time required by law.Both audits were ordered by state lawmakers, who are by now familiar with the understaffing complaints. One bill this year would require the department to study how to make more appealing career paths for the inspector positions, some of which require engineering degrees.Stephen Knight, director of the advocacy group Worksafe, called the audits findings really disappointing.It confirms that Californias promise to hold employers accountable remains unfulfilled, Knight said. Theres a lot of good solid detail and suggestions in the audit, nothing they couldnt have figured out beforehand. Certainly what it would require is resources and political leadership that sides with workers over corner-cutting employers.The problem is urgent, he said, noting workplace accidents have killed three teenagers in California just the past two weeks: one who fell into a meat grinder at a burrito factory in Los Angeles County and two who died in a fireworks warehouse explosion in rural Yolo County.The workplace agency has been the subject of several investigations in recent years. Last year the Sacramento Bee found the division of Cal/OSHA that recommends cases for criminal prosecution was so understaffed it couldnt even consider cases in which workers suffered severe but nonfatal accidents, such as ones that caused paralysis. CalMatters last year reported that the agencys inspections and citations of heat-related hazards had plummeted since the pandemic, despite the rising risks of extreme heat for outdoor workers.In a letter dated June 27 responding to the audit, Department of Industrial Relations director Katrina Hagen wrote that the department has been working to address structural and process issues, as well as recruitment and retention issues, including studying the agencys pay and job responsibility levels. Hagen wrote that Cal/OSHAs vacancy rate had dropped to 12% this year; the auditor responded they hadnt seen up-to-date data showing that.Hagen also wrote that Cal/OSHA is working on making an online complaint form, and said the agency is getting a new case management system that will flag cases that should have gotten an in-person inspection, but didnt. Both upgrades, she wrote, are expected in 2027.Whats the point?The audit also questioned Cal/OSHAs practice of reducing the fines it issued to employers after citing them for safety violations. Employers often appeal citations, a process that can take years to resolve, and the fines or violations can be reduced during settlement conferences, but the auditors wrote that the reasons arent always documented. In a four-year period reviewed by auditors, the average reduction was more than half the original fine.Assembly Labor Committee Chair Liz Ortega, a Hayward Democrat who requested the audit last year, slammed the practice.This Cal/OSHA standard operating procedure can stop TODAY, she wrote in response to a query from CalMatters. Injuries wont abate until there are consequences. If Cal/OSHA wont do it, we should get someone who will.She said she wanted to see the agency increase its referrals for criminal prosecution to 5% of serious cases this year, and called the investigations that dont include in-person inspections fake.Sending a letter!!! Ortega wrote. Whats the point? The Greek government has filed an official diplomatic complaint against Albania after a map showing several Greek regions as part of a "greater Albania" was published online, the government's spokesman said Monday. During a press briefing, government spokesperson, Pavlos Marinakis, sharply rejected the map, calling it completely a-historical and having nothing to do with reality. The map reportedly depicted the Greek island of Corfu and cities in the Epirus region, such as Ioannina and Preveza, as belonging to Albania. Mr. Marinakis clarified that while Athens understands the map does not represent the Albanian government's official policy, the diplomatic complaint was still necessary. He warned that "such publications can only create a negative impression" while efforts are underway to improve relations between the two countries. iefimerida.gr The severe heatwave that has gripped Greece is finally easing, with temperatures dropping below 40 degrees Celsius, but forecasters are now warning of widespread rain and strong thunderstorms expected to hit the country later this week. For the first time in several days, no weather station in Greece recorded temperatures of 40 C (104 F) on Monday, the National Observatory of Athens reported. The highest reading was 39.8 C in Stylida. Meteorologist Klearhos Marousakis of Meteo.gr said a significant cooldown will begin Wednesday, but it will be followed by severe weather. "We expect a clash of two air masses: a cold front from the northern Balkans colliding with the existing hot air over Greece, causing instability with heavy rain, intense lightning, and hail," Mr. Marousakis said. The storms are expected to begin Thursday afternoon and affect central and northern areas, with a risk of strong downpours and localized flooding. The shift in weather follows a prolonged period of extreme heat that fueled wildfires across the country. iefimerida.gr A recent trade agreement between the European Union and the United States that imposes a 15% tariff on some European products is expected to have a limited negative impact on the Greek economy, according to Greek officials and business leaders. The head of the State Budget Office at the Greek Parliament, Giannis Tsoukalas, said that while the deal could have been more favorable, it removes the uncertainty of a full-scale trade war. The share of Greek exports to the U.S. is relatively small, and we believe the direct impact will be very limited, Mr. Tsoukalas said. The deal was reached by former U.S. President Mr. Donald Trump and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Vasilis Korkidis, president of the Piraeus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, called the agreement the lesser of two evils, adding that the 15% tariff is manageable. Greeces Finance Minister, Kyriakos Pierrakakis, described the deal as positive for transatlantic cooperation but noted the government would prefer lower tariffs and is monitoring the situation for key Greek products like olive oil and feta cheese. iefimerida.gr Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met with Kythira Mayor Stratos Charchalakis on Tuesday at the Maximos Mansion, where they discussed measures to support the island following the wildfire that broke out a few days ago. Early next week, a team will visit Kythira to inspect the areas affected by the fire , plan the necessary anti-erosion and flood prevention works, and explore the possibility of artificial reforestation with a variety of plants to ensure greater resilience of vegetation in the future To boost the local economy and tourism, they decided to launch a support program similar to those already in place in North Evia, Thessaly, and Evros. The new program is set to begin next year. Interventions to restore and improve the island's infrastructure were also discussed. The Greek Premier pledged that the State would stand firmly by the island of Kythira. iefimerida.gr Former Secretary General of the Federation, Babachir Lawal has said northern elected officials, including governors, wont win re-election in 2027 unless they join the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Disclosimg this during an interview with news men on Monday, Lawal said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has failed the region and left northerners disillusioned. Which northern elected official will go to campaign on the platform of the APC this coming election? Nobody. Unless ab initio, you have no plan to win the election. I cant see anywhere, he said. Advertisement He insisted that the only path to political survival for many northern politicians lies in defecting to the ADC. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/court-rules-nysc-to-permit-female-corps-members-to-wear-skirts.html Unless they join the ADC, they will not win simply because they belong to a destructive party. A party that woefully failed to perform, he stressed. Lawal also backed earlier criticism by former Kano governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, accusing President Bola Tinubus administration of neglecting northern Nigeria. Every Nigerian that has anything to do with the North will know that no infrastructure work is going on at any level. No projects are going on at least they are not visible to the eye. Maybe in their imagination, maybe in the spirit , but we dont see it, he lamented. He added that he and Kwankwaso, both engineers, are attentive to visible development, and can therefore attest to the lack of federal projects in the region. At least one person has been rescued by men of Adamawa State Fire Service in a joint operation with other government agencies in Yola South of the state. It was gathered that the development is coming, following an heavy downpour which started on Sunday morning. INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that the rain which wrecked havoc in some affected areas, destroyed properties worth millions of naira, while some of the residents are still missing. Advertisement Reacting to the development, Federal Fire Service, Adamawa State Command, in collaboration with Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Police, Nigerian Army, and the Adamawa State Fire Service, carried out a coordinated rescue operation. It was learnt that the victim, a resident of Shagari Low Cost, Sabon Pegi, Yola Pate, and other affected communities in Yola South Local Government Area. READ MORE: Mokwa Flood Claimed 207 Lives, 700 Still Missing Niger Gov Speaking in a statement on Monday, by Head Corporate, Federal Fire Service Headquarters, disclosed that the joint rescue efforts, executed with speed and professionalism, successfully restored hope to affected residents and prevented further loss. He said: One victim was rescued and immediately taken to the Modibbo Adama Teaching Hospital for medical attention. The Deputy Governor of Adamawa State, Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta, visited the scene alongside senior government officials to assess the situation firsthand and commend the swift response of all agencies involved. The Federal Fire Service remains committed to its mandate of safeguarding lives and property in times of emergency. President Bola Tinubu has admitted that he refused to watch final of the Womens Africa Cup of Nations because he was scared of developing high blood pressure. Tinubu led this out when he hosted the players and other members of the team at the Presidential Villa on Monday. The former governor of Lagos State added that he later put on the TV when he was informed that the Nigerian women are leading with 2-3. Advertisement Tinubu said: Honestly, I didnt want to watch the match. I didnt want high blood pressure. But our people came in and turned my TV to that channel. When it was 2-0, I got very offended and restless, but I was there still watching the indomitable spirit of resilience, determination, and courage. And after that penalty, and I saw a 2-1, my spirit was lifted, and I believe that of the nation too was lifted. READ MORE: WAFCON: Tinubu Awards Super Falcons National Honours, $100,000, Three-bedroom Apartment; Governors Donate 10m To Each Player And she came running: We have won. I said you have not yet won. And at the end of the final whistle, it was all excitement all over the country. INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that the President later conferred the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger on the players and technical team for winning the 10th Womens Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco. He announced an award of naira equivalent of $100,000 to each of the players and $50,000 to each member of the technical team. President Tinubu also directed the allocation of a three-bedroom apartment to each of the players and members of the technical team. Veteran Nigerian rapper Jude Abaga, popularly known as M.I, has addressed the growing popularity of younger rappers in the countrys music industry. While acknowledging their impact, he made it clear that he does not feel threatened by their rise. In a recent interview with Jay On Air, posted on X on Monday, M.I expressed admiration for the new generation of rappers and their craft but emphasized that their success doesnt affect his confidence or relevance. Advertisement READ MORE: Naira Marley Predicts Harsh Consequences For Critics, Raises Alarm Over Nigerias Mental Health Crisis The likes of Odumodublvck, Shallipopi, Ladipoe, Falz are the rappers who are currently making waves, but I have not felt like Im the old guy in terms of skills. For me as an artist, that part doesnt affect me. What I care about is if you and I were in the studio, am I with somebody who can outrap me? he said. Sharing more of his thoughts, M.I continued, I love what Odumodu is doing. I love what Blaqbonez is doing. I love their talent but it doesnt intimidate me. Im not Davido, Im not Wizkid; they are in the red-hot moment. Despite the shift in spotlight to younger artists, M.I remains confident in his artistry and insists that skill, not age, is what defines a true rapper. Veteran entertainer and activist, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has lent his voice to the ongoing debate about the ownership of Lagos, stating that the city does not belong to any specific tribe. During an interview on News Central TV, posted on Instagram on Monday, Charly Boy supported the popular notion that Lagos is a no mans land, comparing Nigerias commercial capital to New York City in the United States. This is our first capital, so it has people from different ethnic groups who make Lagos really bubble, he said. Advertisement READ MORE: Tiwa Savage Cuts Ties With Longtime Manager, Issues Booking Warning If you are looking at it from that perspective, yes it feels like America, the melting pot of lots of immigrant people and look at how Donald Trump is messing the whole thing up, everything up. From that perspective, in terms of people coming together, it is really a no mans land, its like New York. Lagos is like New York of Nigeria. His comments follow his reaction to the renaming of a popular bus stop in Bariga, formerly named after him, now renamed Olamide Baddo in honour of hip-hop star Olamide Adedeji by the Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA). National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has declared that Nigeria is significantly safer under President Bola Tinubus administration compared to two years ago. He made this assertion on Tuesday, during a two-day interactive session hosted by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation at Arewa House in Kaduna. Ribadu attributed the notable improvement in security to Tinubus insistence on a unified and coordinated national security strategy. Advertisement According to him, the results of this approach are becoming evident across the country. Kaduna State alone recorded 1,192 killings and over 3,348 kidnappings under the previous administration. In Benue, over 5,000 people lost their lives within the same period, Ribadu stated. He added that ongoing military operations across the North-West region have yielded significant results. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/aregbesola-mobilises-grassroots-for-osun-2026-voter-registration.html As of May 2025, a total of 11,259 hostages have been rescued, and many of the most notorious bandit leaders and their camps in Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina states have been dismantled, he said. Ribadu also commended Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for embracing a non-kinetic strategy in tackling insecurity. Governor Uba Sanis approach to addressing unrest in Southern Kaduna and Birnin Gwari is commendable and impactful. It proves that not all battles must be fought with guns; dialogue and community engagement are also powerful tools, he said. Reaffirming the federal governments commitment, Ribadu stated, We are rebuilding trust, restoring confidence, and reinforcing discipline within the security sector. Our focus is on long-term peace, not temporary relief. He further noted that the Presidents firm stance on accountability has begun reshaping operational culture within the military and security agencies. For the first time in years, we have a leadership that demands results, not excuses, Ribadu asserted. Former Osun State governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola has berated President Bola Tinubus government over the economic hardship facing the country. Oyinlola said that Nigerians are experiencing renewed hardship, instead of renewed hope that the President promised them during his campaign before 2023 election. Speaking on Tuesday, in an interview with Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese Ijebu, Ogun State, the former Osun State governor expressed concern over the state of the nation, accusing Tinubus government of failing to deliver on its promises. Advertisement READ MORE: Defections Into APC Are About Personal Survival, Not Public Service Ex-Osun Governor, Oyinlola Oyinlola pointed to widespread poverty, insecurity, and the deteriorating quality of life as evidence that the administration has not only fallen short but has worsened conditions for ordinary citizens. He said: When he was campaigning, he promised a Renewed Hope. What we are seeing now is nothing short of bad governance. The economy is in terrible shape, and its affecting every Nigerian. Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has berated President Bola Tinubu over economic hardship facing the country. Mr. Obi criticised Tinubus handling of economy, accusing him of misrepresenting data to mask the countrys deteriorating economic realities. The former Anambra State governor led this out in a post shared via his X page on Monday. Advertisement Obi referenced a comment made by Tinubu during the 2022 presidential campaign in Delta State, where the then All Progressives Congress flagbearer reportedly mocked his (Obis) emphasis on data and statistics. READ MORE: Goodluck Jonathan Is Best Choice For The North In 2027, Not Peter Obi PDP Chieftain Insists He also accused Tinubus administration of using what he described as wrong statistics to paint a false picture of economic progress. The statement reads: In November 2022, while campaigning in Delta State, the then APC Presidential Candidate, Bola Tinubu, now the President, berated the other Presidential Candidate, he was ashamed to call his name, saying Na statistics we go chop? All I want is to put food on the table of Nigerians. Now two years into his 4-year tenure, Nigeria is classified as one of the hungriest nations in the world with millions of Nigerians not knowing where their next meal will come from. Governance is not a rock science, its not a gamble. Like I have always reiterated, it requires sincerity of purpose, character, competence, capacity and compassion. Former Ekiti Deputy Governor, Senator Biodun Olujimi, says she left the Peoples Democratic Party for the All Progressives Congress due to President Bola Tinubus bold leadership and willingness to take tough decisions for Nigerias future. Speaking during an interview on Beyond the Headlines, a programme aired on TVC on Monday, Olujimi said her decision to quit the PDP was not taken lightly, but came after enduring years of internal party crises. Well, the PDP journey was a very long journey. It was pleasurable at first, but then it became very torturous and very problematic. And so it was time to move on. It was time to re-energise. It was time to reorder priorities, she stated. Advertisement READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/fire-service-security-agencies-rescue-victim-as-flood-hit-adamawa-community.html She further commended President Tinubus approach to governance, saying: I joined the APC because I saw that the president is taking bold decisions. And when a leader stands by tough decisions for the good of all, then he deserves support. Olujimi, who once served as Senate Minority Leader, described Tinubu as a man of action. The truth is, you may not agree with all of his decisions, but you cannot ignore the fact that he is acting with purpose and clarity. That is the kind of leadership Nigeria needs right now, she said. She also hinted that her political ideology aligns more with Tinubus approach: I believe in progressive politics, in moving people forward. I believe in reforms, and that is what the APC under Tinubu is pursuing. Former Governor of Borno State, Ali Modu Sheriff, has said he chooses to overlook the controversial behaviour of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, because of his impressive developmental strides in Abuja. Sheriff made this statement on Monday, during an interview on Channels Television. According to him, Wikes performance in transforming the capital city cannot be ignored, even though he describes the ministers personality as abrasive. Im not a fan of Wike. Wikes character is that of a rascal, but you cannot take away from him that he has changed Abuja, he stated. Advertisement From the time Abuja was created up to this moment, nobody has worked like him. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/court-rules-nysc-to-permit-female-corps-members-to-wear-skirts.html He added, So people like me will ignore his rascality because he is working. There are ministers that are not working but lying to Nigerians. It is not the presidents problem. Sheriff also took a swipe at some of President Bola Ahmed Tinubus cabinet members, saying, Some of the people he appointed as ministers are just there doing nothing. They go on TV to talk and deceive people. Wike is not deceiving anyone he is working. On the political front, Sheriff hinted at the possible return of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Peter Obi is already on his way back to the PDP. He knows that the structure he needs to win an election is not in the Labour Party. "Della Can Fly!," by Philly filmmaker Jasmine Lynea is premiering at the 2025 BlackStar Film Festival. Read more Phillys BlackStar Film Festival returns July 31-Aug. 3. Ahead of the annual celebration of films by Black, brown, and Indigenous filmmakers, we reached out to Philly-based filmmakers whose projects will be featured at this years fest. They told us about the ways BlackStar has impacted their careers, the importance of the festival for creators of color, and their favorite Philly places to hang after a long day on set. Advertisement Answers have been edited for length and clarity. Jasmine Lynea Della Can Fly!, July 31, 5 p.m., Perelman Theater and streaming virtually Whats your film called? Della Can Fly! Whats the film about? Its a short film inspired by my grandmothers stories oral histories that are only preserved through memory. It follows a young girl grieving her grandfather during a funeral reception. She becomes curious about a mysterious, eccentric old man who resembles her grandfather and claims his missing sister could fly. Together, they uncover hidden truths, ultimately proving a long-held family myth to be true. What brought you to Philly? Philadelphia has been home since I graduated from Temple University. Originally from New Jersey, Ive spent all of my adult life in Philly, and its here where I truly came into myself. Philly is not just where I live its where I learned how to tell stories that matter. How has Philadelphia inspired you? All of my narrative short films have been made in Philadelphia, which is deeply rooted in the stories Ive written here. Philly inspires me to use film as a tool for transformation both personal and collective. Thoughts on BlackStar: BlackStar is a gem truly one of the most vital spaces for filmmakers of color. It was one of the first festivals I ever attended as an emerging filmmaker, and it quickly became a benchmark for whats possible in Phillys film community. Where do you unwind after a grueling day on set? As a Black queer artist in the city, my favorite Philly event to attend is Tulips. Its a queer BIPOC-centered event that gathers music lovers every third Thursday. Its one of the few spaces in the city where queer people can show up fully, feel free, and enjoy good music and community. Its a special place. Kristal Sotomayor Las Cosas Que Brillan, Aug. 3, 5:30 p.m., Perelman Theater and streaming virtually Whats your film called? Las Cosas Que Brillan Whats the film about? Las Cosas Que Brillan is about a mermaid whos trying to find herself. Its a story Ive been wrestling with for many years. It was originally inspired by a play I wrote back in college. I pulled different parts from that play and brought them together into this film. Its also about me discovering I was nonbinary and realizing that not everyone will accept me for who I am. People often project their own expectations onto me, but in the end, I know I have the love and support of my friends, family, and community. What brought you to Philly? Ive lived in the Philadelphia area for over 10 years, and in Philly proper for about seven years. I love this city. Its home, and its where I want to live for the rest of my life. Im especially connected to South Philadelphia and the Latinx and immigrant communities here. Finding a sense of home and community has been vital to my filmmaking practice. How has Philadelphia inspired you? So many of my stories, the people I work with are rooted in Philadelphia. My film Expanding Sanctuary screened at BlackStar last year and won the Philadelphia Filmmaker Award. The film was about the campaign immigrant rights nonprofit Juntos led to stop the sharing of the Philly police database with ICE. After that, I made Dont Cry for Me All You Drag Queens, a film about legendary drag queen Mother Cavallucci from New Hope, Pa. Creating art in this city means everything to me. Thoughts on BlackStar: It is such an incredible resource for filmmakers of color in Philly. Its allowed me to shift from making documentary shorts to creating my first narrative short film. There just arent many local programs that provide this level of support, especially funding that covers an entire project. Theyre doing essential work for local filmmakers, and Im so grateful for everything they do. Where do you unwind after a grueling day on the set? My favorite Philly bar is 254, which used to be the old Tabu. I love the Gayborhood. Its always inspired me, especially the vibrant drag scene. Wale Oyejide Run, Sister Joan, Aug. 3, 5:30 p.m., Perelman Theater and streaming virtually Whats your film called? Run, Sister Joan Whats the film about? Its a magical allegory that illustrates the migration crisis. Like all of my works, this is a story about finding cultural acceptance in an increasingly polarizing society. What brought you to Philly? Im privileged to call Philadelphia home. Ive lived here for several years and worked in various capacities as a lawyer, designer, writer, and filmmaker. How has Philadelphia inspired you? This city holds a spirit of independence that permeates every block, every resident, and by extension, impacts the work of all the artists who live here. As Philadelphians, we have the sense that a few miracles are waiting for us around the corner. Thoughts on BlackStar: BlackStar is a Mecca among filmmakers. Few other festivals amass such a powerful concentration of talent, experience, and global perspective from the African diaspora. Where do you unwind after a grueling day on set? No true Philly resident gives up their favorite spots unless theyre under duress. But among friends, I would recommend Oloroso. Marcellus Armstrong Talking Walls, July 31, 5 p.m., Perelman Theater and streaming virtually Whats your film called? Talking Walls Whats the film about? It is a love letter to Black and queer spaces, blending oral history, traditional documentary, and visual poetry. It features the voices of 10 Black, queer-SGL-LGBT elders, or more affectionately, seasoned people, as they share tender and defiant stories of resilience, love, and joy connected to spaces that no longer exist. What brought you to Philly? Im originally from the suburbs of Baltimore, and I went to Lincoln University for undergrad. Lincoln was a very specific experience, and by nature of the student body, it was uniquely a Philly experience. During that time, I was coming into my own identity as Black, gay, and queer, and much of my social circle consisted of people from Philly. I spent many weekends and summers here in my early 20s. After undergrad, I hopped around and lived in New York City and Detroit, and I moved here permanently in 2019, where I have built numerous connections and have served numerous roles within the arts community. How has Philadelphia inspired you? I moved here six years ago, landing a job as the program manager at Scribe Video Center. I held that position for about four years, and that experience significantly shaped my work as an artist and media-maker. Louis Massiah, Scribes founder and director, has such a deep reverence for Philadelphia, and you can see that love extended throughout Scribes programming and its community of independent filmmakers. Thoughts on BlackStar: For filmmakers, its like being in the September issue of Vogue. Its the pulse, its the moment. Every year, BlackStar presents the evolving question of what contemporary Black thought and creativity look like now. Where do you unwind after a grueling day on set? Dahlak Paradise. The vibes are always nice, theres usually some type of live performance or a good DJ, and its really cared for by the family that owns it. If Im showing someone Philly for the first time, I usually take them to Maxs on Broad and Erie for a cheesesteak, followed by a visit to Eagle Bar next door. Louis Massiah TCB The Toni Cade Bambara School of Organizing, July 31, 8 p.m., Perelman Theater and streaming virtually Whats your film called? TCB The Toni Cade Bambara School of Organizing Whats the film about? Its a biography of the writer, filmmaker, and cultural worker Toni Cade Bambara, whose short stories, essays, and novels were a catalyzing force in Black womens literature. She also played a pivotal role in the Third Cinema and Black independent film movements. What brought you to Philly? Im a lifelong Philadelphian. Though I travel a fair amount and have lived, studied, and worked in different places on this planet, I still call North Philly home. How has Philadelphia inspired you? The people of Philadelphia inspire me. I have been fortunate to have met and worked with extraordinary thinkers, artists, and other cultural workers in Philadelphia, who have used their talents and intelligence to help create a better community and a better world. Thoughts on BlackStar: BlackStar creates community. The films let us know what is happening in communities across the globe our hopes, our visions, our struggles, and our solutions. But the discussions that happen after the films, either formally or informally, are what make it such a special and, in many ways, unique gathering. Where do you unwind after a grueling day on set? Its a toss-up. Either South on Broad Street, Parc on Rittenhouse Square, and now theres Honeysuckle. Mike and Debbie Davis A New Voice, Aug. 1, 3 p.m., Perelman Theater and streaming virtually Whats your film called? A New Voice Whats the film about? Its a documentary short film that sheds light on the rarely-seen success stories of people who have transitioned from prison to home, and their impact on their communities. Connection to Philly and how has the city inspired you: We were both born and raised in Philly, in an era of resistance and activism. You had the Black Panthers, the Church of the Advocate, anti-war sentiments, and MOVE. We experienced police brutality against family and mutual friends, which eventually led us to join the MOVE Organization. That experience led us to personal encounters with police and a 30-to-100-year prison sentence, of which we served 40 years. After our release in 2018, we encountered Louis Massiah, who graciously gave us the opportunity to learn the art of filmmaking and encouraged us to tell our own story through film. Thoughts on BlackStar: It is very valuable to filmmakers because BlackStar uplifts and gives voice to marginalized communities. Where do you unwind after a grueling day on the set? We enjoy hanging out with our families at the park and beach, and going to BlackStar Film Festival every year. Andrew Bilindabagabo Adamstown, Aug. 3, 5:30 p.m., Perelman Theater and streaming virtually Whats your film called? Adamstown Whats the film about? It is a neo-noir chase thriller, an immigrant story, and a love letter to and indictment of a small American factory town. What brought you to Philly? I was born and raised in Rwanda, and my connection to Philadelphia began when I moved to the area to attend college. Since then, Ive continued to live and work in and around Philly, building both personal and professional roots here. What keeps me connected is the citys vibrant art scene, diverse culture, incredible food, and, above all, its resilience. How has Philadelphia inspired you? As a filmmaker, I cant imagine a better city than Philadelphia. Its full of life, art, and character from graffiti-covered walls to beautiful museums. Thoughts on BlackStar: I cant say enough good things about BlackStar. Im immensely grateful for the way they provide resources and mentorship, but also a genuine embrace of artists from all walks of life. Its more than a festival its an incubator for marginalized voices, and a space where our stories are nurtured. Where do you unwind after a grueling day on set? South Restaurant & Jazz Club, or just about any restaurant in Fishtown. Chisom Chieke Food for the Soul, Aug. 3, 5:30 p.m., Perelman Theater and streaming virtually Whats your film called? Food for the Soul Whats the film about? My film is about relationships and the mirrors they present to us a portal to growth and connection. What brought you to Philly? Philly is where Ive raised myself for the past eight years. Its where I made so many life decisions, including transitioning into a full-time creative. Its where I found my community in film and learned to truly bet on myself. How has Philadelphia inspired you? Philadelphia continues to inspire me through its creative scene and the colorful landscape that exists as our backdrop. Theres always something to do and to learn from the artists exploring various disciplines in Philly. Thoughts on BlackStar: BlackStar is invaluable to filmmakers of color. I have seen the safe space BlackStar offers as an organization, their dedication to uplifting our stories and facilitating connection. Im so grateful for the support. Where do you unwind after a grueling day on set? Cosmic Cafe. Its not your typical bar, but its an outdoor eatery along the Schuylkill. They offer nice drinks, live music, and river views. Philadelphia police called on the public for help as they work to find two men they say took part in a shooting at a birthday party in Nicetown on Saturday, leaving two men dead and a mother and her 7-year-old daughter injured. Police released images of Lawrence Coleman, 25, and Virgil Williams, 29, in connection with the gunfire at a party that was thrown into chaos when authorities say an argument escalated into gunfire. Advertisement Police declined to say how investigators linked the two men to the shooting or whether they are believed to have fired weapons. Coleman is 59, 150 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes, and Williams is 64," 210 lbs., also with black hair and brown eyes, police said. Both are to be considered armed and dangerous, police said, and a $20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Shots rang out at the birthday gathering on tthe 1900 block of West Hunting Park Avenue after an argument among a group of men turned violent when someone opened fire, hitting a 26-year-old woman in her arm and Quron Ross-Weems, also 26, in his head, killing him, police said. When he heard the sound of gunshots, Lonzell McDaniel, 20, came out of the house where the party was being held and started shooting a gun toward a group of people, hitting Nyfik Johnson, 29, multiple times in his head and body and grazing the side of the head of the womans 7-year-old daughter, police said. The girl was taken to Jefferson Einstein Philadelphia Hospital and then St. Christophers Hospital for Children, where she is in stable condition, police said. Her mother is in stable condition at Jefferson Einstein Philadelphia Hospital, police said. Johnson and Ross-Weems were taken to Temple University Hospital, where they were pronounced dead. Ross-Weems was shot while trying to break up the fight that led to gunfire, police said, and Johnson was tending to people who had been shot when he was struck by a bullet. McDaniel was charged with murder and related crimes, police said. He was denied bail and is being held at Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility. Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel addressing the media Monday. In back from left is District Attorney Larry Krasner, Assistant District Attorney Amanda Hendrick, and Angela Wade, a mother who lost her son to gun violence. Read more Two Philadelphia men police say shot at officers after an attempted traffic stop have been charged with multiple crimes, including assault of a law enforcement officer and recklessly endangering another person, authorities said. Khalil Flowers, 35, and Nathaniel Smith, 30, were arrested Friday shortly after Smith shot at officers who tried to pull them and a third person over in the Overbook section of the city, Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner said at a Monday news conference. Advertisement The officers, whom police did not identify, were not injured, Police Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore said Monday. Just before 5:30 p.m. Friday, three officers in an unmarked police vehicle were patrolling near the 5400 block of Morse Street when they spotted a white Kia Forte being driven erratically at a high speed, said Police Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore. At one point, the driver sped past a stop sign and drove the wrong way down a one-way street, said Vanore. When the officers tried to pull over the driver and the two passengers, the driver sped away and Smith pulled out a gun and fired at least two shots toward the officers, he said. The officers, whom police did not identify, were not injured, said Vanore. Shortly after, the car got stuck behind a truck and all three men got out and fled on foot, with officers pursuing and quickly apprehending Smith and Flowers, he said. When police searched the Kia, they found packaged crack cocaine and marijuana, two spent shell casings, and the 9mm handgun police believe Smith shot at police, said Vanore. Police are still searching for the third suspect. Smith was charged with three counts of assault of a law enforcement officer, three counts of aggravated assault, and related crimes. Flowers was charged with recklessly endangering another person. Both men were also charged with drug crimes. Smith and Flowers are being held at Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility, with Smiths bail set at $1.5 million and Flowers bail set at $500,000, court records show. Both men are scheduled for preliminary hearings Aug. 13. The shooting occurred at the start of a particularly violent weekend that saw 12 shootings that left three people dead and 15 injured. Despite the weekends surge in violence, homicides continue to trend downward, with 129 homicides as of Sunday, compared to 152 at the same time last year, according to police data. There were 600 shooting victims as of Sunday, down from the 646 the same time last year, according to the data. The United States Department of Education has released more than $5 billion in education funding that President Donald Trump's administration had ordered frozen. Philadelphia will receive $25 million. Read more The U.S. Department of Education is releasing more than $5 billion in delayed funding to public schools nationwide this week, officials said. President Donald Trumps administration had ordered more than $6 billion, which was supposed to be disbursed on July 1, frozen as officials checked to ensure that the programs receiving the funds aligned with White House priorities. In Pennsylvania, $230 million in school funding was frozen. Advertisement The holdup created a nerve-wracking several weeks for many districts that had banked on the funds to run key programs, and as a new school year approaches. READ MORE: Olney Highs dilapidated athletic fields lack bleachers and bathrooms. Heres how a community galvanized for change. Christina Clark, a district spokesperson, said the district had just over $25 million held up for English language instruction, staff professional development, and instruction for students from economically disadvantaged homes. The funding that had been withheld nationwide included $2 billion for teacher training and plans to reduce class sizes, $1 billion for academic enrichment, $890 million for students learning English, $376 million for money to educate the children of migrant workers, and $715 million for adult literacy programs. The frozen funds were the subject of several lawsuits, including one that Gov. Josh Shapiro joined on behalf of Pennsylvania. Several Republican senators also urged the White House to release the funds, which Congress had appropriated earlier this year in a bill signed by Trump. The Office of Management and Budget had initially said some of the grant funding was being used to support a radical leftwing agenda promoting LGBTQ inclusion and supporting immigrants living in the country illegally. The Republican senators who asked the White House to release the funds said they shared the administrations concern, but however, we do not believe that is happening with these funds, the senators wrote. This article contains information from The Associated Press. Employees of Stephen Starr restaurants from Washington, D.C., came to Philadelphia to protest outside Starr headquarters at 134 Market St. as they work to unionize. Read more In blazing heat midday Monday, a modest crowd of labor-rights advocates and restaurant workers including at least six D.C.-area Starr Restaurants employees chanted in English and Spanish: When workers rights are under attack, what do we do? Stand up, fight back! As attendees fanned themselves and clustered under the shade of umbrellas on the 100 block of Market Street, Greg Varney, a worker at Stephen Starr-owned D.C. steakhouse St. Anselm, took the microphone and shouted over the sound of nearby construction. In January, a supermajority of us demanded voluntary recognition, Varney told the group, which was bolstered by local representatives from Phillys Unite Here branch, the AFL-CIO, and local hospitality workers nonprofit El Comite Philly. Advertisement Since then, [Starr Restaurants] has hired anti-union persuaders to campaign against the union, fired union supporters, reduced the hours of union supporters, and continued to employ a supervising chef at Pastis who two union leaders reported to HR for [allegations of] sexual harassment, Varney said. The group crossed Market Street and circled up in front of Starr Restaurants headquarters, located next to the long-shuttered Old City location of the Continental, which launched the career of Philadelphias most famous restaurateur. They posted a note and taped an envelope labeled Starr on the door of the discreetly marked building. The two-page note included photos of Starrs would-be union employees, as well as a plea to give the workers a seat at the table. Asked for comment on the rally, a spokesperson for Starr Restaurants said in a statement: What is unfolding today is an unfortunate part of a broader campaign led by a Washington, D.C.-based hotel union. Despite employing highly aggressive tactics, the union has not succeeded in persuading our employees to join, it read. In fact, the majority of our D.C. team has expressed a clear preference not to unionize, with many actively opposed. (The results of two union elections one went in favor of unionization, the other against at Starr restaurants in D.C. are being contested, while a third has been indefinitely postponed.) The statement asserted that the majority of Mondays protesters were paid demonstrators. The rally marked the second time that representatives from Starrs D.C. restaurants have demonstrated in Philly, the restaurateurs home base. The first took place in June, shortly after Unite Here which represents the would-be Starr unions called for lawmakers to boycott the restaurateurs highest-profile establishments in the nations capital. Philly-area Democrats, including U.S. Reps. Brendan Boyle, Dwight Evans, and Mary Gay Scanlon, signed on to the boycott, as did high-profile politicians such as Speaker Emeritus Nancy Pelosi and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders. (Stephen Starr is a longtime donor to the Democratic Party and its candidates, according to OpenSecrets.org.) Employees at three of Starrs D.C. restaurants Pastis, St. Anselm, and Le Diplomate filed notice of their intent to unionize in January. Tensions between management and pro-union workers have been high ever since. St. Anselm workers voted in favor of unionizing, 51-42, while Pastis workers voted against, 36-56. The outcomes of both elections have been disputed by representatives of Starr Restaurants and Unite Here, respectively. A scheduled vote at Le Diplomate was withdrawn. Part-time support staffer Ellery Grimm was one of at least four St. Anselm employees who made the bus trip from D.C. to Philadelphia on Monday. Like other workers who spoke at the event Monday, she said her wages dont adequately cover the cost of living in D.C. Increased wages are one goal of the union campaign, but Grimm also cited her desire to have more standing in the workplace. For me, personally, I think in the front of house, there was just a complete lack of respect from management, she said. After Mondays event, the D.C. group planned a visit to the Liberty Bell, followed by evening trips to various local Starr establishments, where they planned to distribute fliers to patrons to raise the visibility of their campaign. They havent listened to us in D.C., so we thought Maybe, theyll listen to us here, Grimm said. Prospect Medical's bankruptcy attorneys want to exclude Taylor Hospital and Delaware County Memorial Hospital from the bankruptcy estate because they have been found to have too little value as real estate. Read more Prospect Medical Holdings wants to jettison from its bankruptcy case two Crozer Health hospitals that the California for-profit company has shuttered in Delaware County. Prospect has received top offers of $1.25 million for Delaware County Memorial Hospital in Drexel Hill and $575,000 for Taylor Hospital in Ridley Park, according to a filing in its bankruptcy case. Advertisement Because those offers are so much less than the property tax claims asserted by local authorities, Prospect now wants to abandon the properties, and filed a motion seeking approval in bankruptcy court Friday. The carrying costs are too high to justify keeping them as part of the bankruptcy estate, Prospect said. If a bankruptcy judge in Texas approves the abandonment at a hearing next Monday, that would stop the clock on the accumulation of additional bankruptcy liabilities. Ownership of the buildings would not change. A lender could foreclose on the properties. The filing did not mention Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland, Crozers largest hospital, which Prospect closed in May. It is also for sale. Prospects motion to abandon Delaware County Memorial and Taylor noted that property tax claims at Delaware County Memorial are $19.74 million and $7.67 million at Taylor. Delaware County officials did not respond to a request for comment. Crozer also faces an additional $660 million in unsecured claims from vendors and other creditors, according to Prospects filing. For years, Prospect has been fighting the assessments, which are linked to the inflated prices used in 2019 when Prospect raised more than $400 million from the sale of its Delaware County properties to Medical Properties Trust as part of a much larger deal under which Prospect leased the Crozer properties back from the real estate company. The 2019 deal valued Delaware County Memorial at $124.5 million, property records show. The assessed value of the hospital that has been closed since late 2022 is $108 million. Upper Darby School District had expressed interest in acquiring the hospital next to its high school. At Taylor, the assessment is $60 million, likely based on an attributed value of $70.8 million in the 2019 deal. Taylor closed in April. Even before Prospect filed for bankruptcy protection in January, Delaware County officials, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiros office, and local health systems tried to find a new operator for Crozer in the face of Prospects closure threats. Those efforts failed because no long-term financial backstop for the new operator could be established. Now the county and towns are scrambling to replace services, including mental health crisis response and emergency medical response. For seven years, while Pennsylvania lawmakers have debated whether to legalize recreational marijuana, a gray market has blossomed for an array of products that look and smell a lot like weed. From South Philly to the King of Prussia Mall, wellness shops sell it in unlabeled jars. West Coast-style dispensaries, staffed with expert budtenders, sell it in grams and eighths. At gas stations or corner stores, patrons can pick up a tin of pre-rolled joints endorsed by celebrities like boxer Mike Tyson or a pouch of gummies. The sales occur out in the open thanks to the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill, which legalized hemp products that contain a minuscule amount of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana that gets users high. But other intoxicating THC forms that can be derived from hemp exist in legal limbo. And that apparent loophole has created a multibillion-dollar industry nationwide, largely free from regulation and oversight. An Inquirer investigation has found that Pennsylvania consumers of these products, which are often advertised as legal and free from toxins, have been deceived by misleading claims on the packaging, putting them at risk of unexpected health problems or criminal charges. Over the last several months, reporters purchased 10 different hemp products from 10 stores around the region, and then paid for a laboratory to test the items for potency levels and potentially harmful adulterants. The tests conducted by Trichome Analytical, a lab that services New Jerseys recreational cannabis program showed that nine of the samples exceeded the 0.3% Delta-9 THC potency level cited in the Farm Bill, making them illegal to sell in Pennsylvania. Those items contained Delta-9 THC at levels 200% to more than 2,400% over the federal limit. Six samples, strengthened by other hemp-derived THC variants, were as potent as most dispensary-grade marijuana. Trichome chemists said seven of the samples were just conventionally grown black market weed, despite labels claiming they were legal hemp products. Eight samples tested positive for contaminants that are illegal to sell in many state-run recreational cannabis programs. Seven contained aspergillus, a fungus with spores that can cause respiratory infections when smoked. Three exceeded legal limits for pesticides in New Jersey, including carbofuran, a neurotoxin banned in the United States, Canada, and the European Union. One sample contained mold, pesticides, and high levels of chromium, a carcinogenic metal. The health effects of these contaminants in gray-market products are rarely studied. Many of the items came with certificates of authenticity citing lab tests to confirm their products safety or legality. But The Inquirer found that at least two companies had used bogus certificates that concealed contamination or misrepresented the potency of their product. There are hemp products on store shelves that do in fact meet legal standards, including a Mike Tyson-branded product tested in The Inquirers small sample study. But in the absence of a regulatory process to ensure compliance with state and federal laws, The Inquirers test results raise questions about the safety of these products and underscore the nearly decade-long failure by Pennsylvania lawmakers to pass meaningful legislation in this area. What theyre selling is straight weed, because the market is so gray, said Tony Payton Jr., a former Pennsylvania legislator who now works in the cannabis industry. Theres no enforcement. In Philadelphia, few shop owners The Inquirer visited showed concern about the legal or health risks of these products. At a privately owned CBD wellness shop called Hemperiffic, on Snyder Avenue in South Philadelphia, reporters purchased Jelly Zonut, a product marketed as hemp. Testing showed it was traditional cannabis that also contained mold and the banned pesticide carbofuran. The store owner, who refused to give his full name, said that he didnt know where the product came from and that wholesalers call once a week to sell their goods. Although he said the contaminated weed came with a certificate of authenticity, when asked by a reporter for the paperwork, he said he was unable to produce any or recall the name of his supplier. Told the product was likely illegal, he said he was unconcerned. He said his brother is an FBI agent, who told him he had nothing to worry about. A lot of these retailers dont even know its illegal, said Kristen Goedde, founder of Trichome, noting that many wholesalers will provide phony certificates of authenticity to assuage concerns. They think this is fine, but theyre on the front lines and theyre the ones going to be held accountable. Whether police enforce the law can depend on geography. Pennsylvania State Police, for instance, view all hemp-derived THC products as illegal, while the Philadelphia Police Department says some are permissible. Some states have attempted to ban the sale of alternative hemp-derived products such as Delta-8 or THCA to end confusion about what is or is not a legal product. And 24 states have fully legalized traditional cannabis use for adults, bringing in billions of tax dollars. In Pennsylvania, dithering over recreational sales by state lawmakers has allowed a patchwork approach where the niche market of unregulated hemp products flourishes alongside a regulated medical marijuana system approved in 2016. In recent weeks state lawmakers began to hold hearings on the risks of the unregulated hemp market. Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R., Indiana) said, in a statement, that the legislature would continue to discuss options of how best to address access to these substances, especially as it relates to minors. Fungicides and designer drugs At the Good Vibes smoke shop in Bensalem, Inquirer reporters purchased a pre-rolled joint branded as 24k Kosher x Tangie, packaged by Florida-based Flying Monkey. Its label indicated it was legal hemp-derived THCA, a non-psychoactive compound that converts to intoxicating Delta-9 THC when smoked. But lab tests showed the product was conventionally grown weed that also contained six different pesticides, including levels of the fungicide trifloxystrobin 330 times over the legal limit in New Jersey. We test a lot of products, and not just in New Jersey, said Tom Barkley, lab director of Trichome Analytical. This is more pesticide and in higher levels than weve ever seen before. Mom-and-pop smoke shops like Good Vibes typically buy their hemp products from a vast network of wholesalers and manufacturers across the country. These suppliers range from celebrity-backed companies to nascent outfits with no published phone number like Flying Monkey, which did not respond to requests for comment. Some smoke shop products sold in the region may also contain not only lab-made synthetic cannabinoids but also some harder designer drugs. The Drug Enforcement Administration-funded Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE) in Horsham shared with The Inquirer testing data that showed one unregulated vape pen sold in Philadelphia last month contained traces of dimethylpentylone, a synthetic stimulant often used in the club drug ecstasy. This particular vape branded after the Rick & Morty adult cartoon spawned viral social media posts in which young people theorized that the ultra-potent cartridges contained fentanyl or other drugs. The popularity of these products has grown with teens, with studies showing one in 10 U.S. 12th graders have reported trying Delta-8, a semisynthetic THC variant that is a profit driver in the unregulated hemp market. Chris Goldstein, a Philadelphia-area cannabis reform advocate, described the current system as the worst of all possible worlds one where illicit or toxic cannabis products are openly sold, even as police in Pennsylvania continue to arrest street weed dealers. (Federal crime data showed more than 1,600 arrests related to the sale of marijuana in Pennsylvania in 2023, the most recent year available.) Goldstein blamed the prevalence of hemp-hawking storefronts in Pennsylvania on the states restrictive rules around cannabis sales, but he also cited the broader failure of the federal government to craft coherent rules for sale of the drug. These stores are a product of prohibition, he said. From hemp boom to Wild West Almost overnight, the Farm Bill triggered a growth industry fueled by an appetite for products containing CBD, a nonintoxicating derivative of hemp with professed therapeutic powers. The hemp-derived cannabis industry reached $2.8 billion in national sales in 2023 a more than 1,000% increase since 2020. Farmers in Pennsylvania also saw opportunity. A single acre of hemp which can also be refined into a variety of products including rope, paint, textiles, and food could reap tens of thousands of dollars in sales, said Erica Stark, chair of the Pennsylvania Hemp Industry Council. Everybody and their grandma thought they were gonna hop on the gravy train of CBD production, Stark said. Soon, there was a glut of CBD and stores selling products touting its medicinal properties. That led eager purveyors to exploit the law to create more powerful products, theorizing that derivatives of the legally grown hemp were also permissible. The process of turning legal hemp into something that essentially mimics a marijuana product works like this: Hemp has very low levels of THC, but large amounts can be processed into stronger THC concentrates and sprayed onto legal hemp flowers, making them more potent. In some cases, CBD from legal hemp is chemically altered often in home labs to create powerful, semisynthetic THC versions like Delta-8 or THCP. Because these forms are chemically different from traditional Delta-9 THC, some argue they avoid state and federal drug laws. Are these legal? No. But you cant prove it. A retailer at a Center City store, who declined to be named because of concerns about law enforcement Some recreational and medical marijuana producers have pivoted their business to hemp, due to the explosive growth and comparative lack of regulation, three industry figures said. Instead of spending time and money spraying hemp flowers with lab-made THC isolate, Stark said, some producers started selling actual cannabis either illegally grown or imported from recreational states labeled hemp. Its all deception, she said. Doing business in the gray market In conversations with more than a dozen proprietors selling hemp products around the region, few claimed to know exactly where the products on their shelves originated or whats in them. But some openly acknowledged they knew the potency of what they were selling. Are these legal? No, said one retailer at a Center City store, who declined to be named because of concerns about law enforcement. But you cant prove it. Other shop owners insist they are trying to do everything aboveboard. Matt and Debbie Pruette own Microgrown, a boutique storefront located on a leafy back road in Upper Chichester Township. Its a high-end shop with an educational focus, geared toward the medicinal benefits of hemp products nothing like the smoke shops that today line many strip malls or street corners, they argue. We never realized how many people at night drink themselves to sleep, Debbie Pruette said. We help them get off alcohol, give them something more natural to get themselves to sleep. But lets be honest, her husband interjected. People still wanna get high. The farm-to-table shop sells products made from the couples licensed hemp farm in Delaware County. But they mostly import their flowers from the Pacific Northwest. 100% clean and legal, their website asserts. Yet an Inquirer test of their imported hemp flower showed 1% Delta-9 THC, more than 200% above the legal limit. It also contained piperonyl butoxide, a pesticide accelerator that would have failed New Jerseys state-required test. Matt Pruette said the pesticide result is unfortunate, but he noted that chemical testing is not required in Pennsylvania. As for the potency, he said it demonstrated why the 0.3% limit is arbitrary, as hemp grown legally under the Farm Bill can naturally increase in potency up to 1% after harvest. One percent would still be illegal, he said, but its completely understandable. High doses and mysterious risks In 2022, Kevin Osterhoudt, medical director of the poison control center at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, said he went to the King of Prussia Mall and bought a red plastic bag of unregulated THC edibles: Lucky Charmz, styled after the popular breakfast cereal. Its got a cute little elf on it. It looks like a favorite little cereal, he explained to other doctors at an online panel about THC toxicity last year, holding up the pouch of potent edibles. 500 milligrams of what? Im not really sure. But imagine what happens when a 2-year-old finds this and thinks its a delicious treat. CHOPs poison center reported 27 calls for THC cases in 2019 in Pennsylvania, the year after the Farm Bill passed. By 2023, the number hit 332. The hospital does not track the types of products that triggered the calls and whether they came from state-run programs or the unregulated market. But Osterhoudt said the surge was fueled in part by unregulated hemp products like Lucky Charmz due to the lack of controls over potency and child-friendly marketing. Americans love to say they hate regulation, but there are benefits that come from regulation, Osterhoudt said in an interview. Because this is a fringe market, the concentrations of those products can be much higher. Due to concerns about child access, Pennsylvanias medical marijuana dispensaries are barred from selling most chewable THC products. State-run programs also restrict the amount of THC in a single packet of edibles. New Jersey limits the total package to 100 milligrams of THC. The long-term adverse effects on children consuming unregulated hemp products sold on shelves across Pennsylvania remain poorly studied. Some young adult users of Delta-8 have reported severe mental health episodes and even psychosis. Max Leung, a University of Arizona professor who has studied cannabis contaminants, said that while the precise effects of smoking THC that contains mold, pesticides, or heavy metals were rarely studied, some health risks were self-evident. The concern is if you have a patient with a neurological condition, say a seizure or epilepsy and then on top of that you expose them to a chemical thats neurotoxic, Leung said. Thats not a good combination. Phony lab results, failed urine tests Many wholesalers ship products across the country, bearing certificates of authenticity (COAs) that purport low levels of THC to comply with the terms of the Farm Bill. One white-coated strain dubbed Permanent Marker, which is sold at local chain Deep Six Cigar & Kava Bars smoke shop in the King of Prussia Mall, was among the cleaner samples The Inquirer had tested. While Goedde, the founder of Trichome, said it was just weed, and not hemp as advertised, it contained no mold or pesticides. But the COA posted online by the supplier Florida-based Uplift, a wholesaler that claims to sell THCA flower as strong as dispensary-grade products inflated its total THC content to make it seem more potent: Uplift claimed the product contained 55% total THC, but The Inquirers testing found it was just 30%. Deep Six owner Nick Kruczaj, a retired Chester police officer, declined to speak directly to The Inquirer. Through a representative, he produced a COA from a supplier showing the product was 0.01% under the legal limit. The store no longer carried the product, the representative said, adding that Deep Six would begin dropping hemp products altogether. Despite a federal limit on traditional THC, some manufacturers and distributors exaggerate the amount of hemp-derived THCA or Delta-8 in their products to appeal to consumers often by digitally altering or completely fabricating a COA, according to several cannabis testing labs. The newspaper contacted six labs that Uplift claimed had tested its products. One said Uplift had altered a genuine report to inflate the THC potency. Two said Uplift had never been a client, contending the company must have lifted the labs COA template from the internet and fabricated the numbers. Florida-based wholesaler Flying Monkey also misrepresented COAs for its boutique line of pre-rolled joints, according to ACS Laboratory, the testing group listed on the documents. ACS Laboratory said Flying Monkey digitally altered its COA to claim it passed a test for pathogens and heavy metals which were detected in The Inquirers testing when it had, in fact, failed the test. They eliminated the failures, said Roger Brown, president of ACS Laboratory. This happens all the time with these guys. Its really absurd and dangerous. Neither Uplift or Flying Monkey responded to repeated requests for comment. Deceptive marketing practices are widespread within the hemp-based cannabinoid producers, according to interviews with more than a dozen industry experts. The deceit can carry serious implications for unwitting consumers. Robbie Grogan, a 40-year-old father in Elizabethtown, was fired from his job as a transit agency inspector in 2018 after a routine drug test came back positive for THC. Grogan said he was stunned, believing that he didnt use marijuana products. He and his wife had been taking an Oregon-made CBD product that purported to contain no THC. They seemed legit enough. They had this website. They had lab results, Grogan said. Right on the bottle: 0% THC. Drug testing revealed that was false, according to a consumer protection lawsuit Grogan filed against the manufacturer, ThoughtCloud. Grogan was forced to rebuild his career after being fired, which came when his wife was pregnant with their first child. The litigation is ongoing, but ThoughtCloud is no longer in business and has no listed attorney on the case. Grogans attorney, William G. Roark, cast his clients story as a cautionary tale about the unregulated market. He said the Farm Bills 0.3% threshold is arbitrary, as hemps chemical profile is so volatile that the THC level can balloon over time as the flower product naturally dries. A farmer could go to bed with a field full of lawful hemp, and the next morning, the chemical profile has altered enough so all of the sudden, hes growing marijuana and committing a federal felony, Roark said. Now youve got a product that, if you put it in your vape pen, itll send you to Mars. Deception in the industry even occurs between manufacturers, according to Cesar Reveron, owner of the Florida-based hemp company Black Bunker Distribution. Reveron claimed that the Black Bunker product that Inquirer reporters bought which contained aspergillus and exceeded the federal potency limit was counterfeit. He said the label on the Frosty Nuggs Black Ice flower sold in North Philadelphia had a different gloss and alleged someone had spoofed his companys branding. Thats not our product at all, Reveron said. To the National Cannabis Industry Association, a group that lobbies for both the hemp-based and traditional marijuana sectors, a few bad actors shouldnt overshadow those trying to do it right. They are the exception and not the rule, said Aaron Smith, the cofounder. The majority of the hemp products are manufactured by good actors. But he agreed that more enforcement is necessary and it should be evenhanded. The lack of regulation for hemp producers has led many adult-use cannabis companies to shift their business models, sidestepping the stringent requirements for state-run marijuana programs. Ultimately, he said, these products need to be treated the same. Passing the buck on enforcement States like Rhode Island and California, which have recreational marijuana systems, are starting to crack down on semisynthetics like Delta-8 or edible products containing hemp-derived THC. More recently, the Texas legislature passed a blanket ban on all THC products in response to an explosion of about 8,500 stores selling unregulated hemp products across the state. But Texas Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed the ban last month after intense pushback from an industry that accounts for billions in sales statewide. Pennsylvania lawmakers have been debating recreational cannabis since 2018, with little progress to show. While federal lawmakers mull how to close the supposed Farm Bill loophole, enforcement in the commonwealth remains scattered among a variety of regulatory agencies, local governments, or police agencies with more pressing criminal concerns. Between 2022 and 2024, state agricultural officials ordered 32 farms with hemp permits to destroy or remediate their crop for testing over the federal THC limit, according to data provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The agency has also independently cracked down on businesses selling cannabinoid-infused food and drink, which is banned under Pennsylvanias Commercial Feed Act and Food Safety Act. The PA Department of Agriculture is concerned about products that are mislabeled or deceptively labeled, and works within current legal authority to protect consumers, Shannon Powers, a department spokesperson, said in response to The Inquirers findings. But smoke shops, gas stations, and convenience stores are outside the departments purview, she said, and enforcement falls to local authorities. In Philadelphia, local police and the Department of Licenses and Inspections have spent years waging a battle against some operations by issuing repeated cease-operation orders. Yet similar shops have reopened or continued operating with little interference, often while flouting other laws with the use of unlicensed slot machines. In April, the Philadelphia Police Departments Neighborhood Nuisance Task Force raided a smoke shop called Exotic Snacks in South Philadelphia, charging the owner with selling marijuana over the counter. But Cpl. Jasmine Reilly, a city police spokesperson, said enforcement is complicated because the department regards hemp products like Delta-8 as legal. We have to rely on the label saying that its Delta-8, she said. Yet a spokesperson for the Pennsylvania State Police said the agency has taken a far more expansive stance that any store other than a medical dispensary selling recreational THC products is engaged in illegal activity. PSPs position is that under current Pennsylvania law, THC from hemp in any consumable form is just as illegal as THC from marijuana, Sgt. Logan T. Brouse said. He declined to provide a count on how many retailers had been raided by the agency. Uneven enforcement has led to lawsuits from store owners arguing they were unfairly targeted for selling what they contend are legal products. On the same street as Exotic Snacks in South Philly, Hemperiffic and West Coast Hemp remained open for business a month after the raid. In May, a 24-year old customer named CJ went shopping in West Coast Hemp. He said that marijuana helped him through a cancer diagnosis and that he relies on it for his mental health. CJ said he patronized the gray-market shop because under Pennsylvanias medical marijuana law, cardholders are barred from getting a concealed carry permit for firearms a right he refused to forfeit. Im not going to gamble the safety of my wife and daughter just so I can get a medical marijuana license, said CJ, who declined to be named fully given the questionable legality of his purchases. Some lawmakers have tried to address the patchwork system in Pennsylvania that creates such issues. State Sen. Sharif Street, Pennsylvanias Democratic Party chairman who represents parts of North Philadelphia, introduced a bill to ban Delta-8 in Pennsylvania three years ago. Street said his bill was met with disinterest. This month, he introduced another bipartisan bill to finally approve a recreational sales system his third such attempt in four years. Time magazine recently named Fresh Air as one of the 100 greatest podcasts of all time. The move places the WHYY stalwart alongside the likes of WTF with Marc Maron and Call Her Daddy as a downloadable, digestible, audio show that culture writer Elena Dockterman deemed the best of the best. Advertisement On the show, longtime host Terry Gross, now with co-host Tonya Mosley, comes face-to-face or, at least, voice-to-voice with figures famous and obscure, unpacking their careers and interior worlds for an hour at a time. Comedian Tracy Morgan cried on the air when Gross asked him about his dad. Gross and author Maurice Sendak became emotional in 2011, when Sendak predicted hed precede his interviewer in death. (Indeed, the Where the Wild Things Are author died the following year.) In other words, Gross was perfecting podcasts style and vibe long before the medium began in earnest and decades ahead of Fresh Airs own arrival to apps like Spotify and Apple Podcasts. That wasnt our initial thing, Gross said. But Im so grateful to podcast, because that gives us a whole set of listeners that we otherwise might not ever have reached. Fresh Air debuted as a local show in 1975, a time when WHYY was transitioning from music to news. At first, the show had little money and a microscopic audience. Gross didnt think that was a downside. I was able to keep growing, Gross said. And as I grew, the station was growing, too. NPR took Gross coast-to-coast once she and the programs producers at WHYY felt she was ready for syndication in 1985. Each week, stations across the country would carry the choicest half-hour from her interviews. By 1987, Fresh Air took on, essentially, the format its held since: one hour, once a day. For parts of Philadelphia, however, Gross new nationwide platform represented a loss. Some even felt theyd been betrayed, she said: Going national meant Fresh Air would book far fewer guests with Philly ties. Fresh Airs podcast honor comes at a precarious time for its platform: Congressional Republicans recently cut off federal funding for what Gross jokingly called the late, great Corporation for Public Broadcasting, imperiling hundreds of its beneficiaries across the country. Bill Siemering, who first made the shows case for syndication to NPR brass, told the New York Times that the campaign against public media arose from a divisive culture that no longer values inclusion and diversity, for one. Gross interviews have run the gamut. William F. Buckley Jr., the architect of the postwar conservative movement, appeared on Fresh Air in 1989. Tim Alberta did some soul-searching on the Fresh Air airwaves while promoting a book about Donald Trump-era evangelicalism. And Elizabeth Bruenig, an antiabortion Catholic (albeit a socialist) raised evangelical in Arlington, Texas, recently held forth to Mosley about her experiences witnessing botched executions in Alabama. We do sometimes get messages like, I disagree with what your guests said, but I still like your show, Gross said. Fresh Airs reach hasnt diminished Philadelphias centrality. Danny Miller, one of the producers behind Fresh Airs creation, graduated from Temple University, Gross said. Siemering still lives near Fort Washington. And WHYYs executives, journalists, and producers helped forge the program into the half-century juggernaut it is today. Without all that, Gross said, Fresh Air wouldnt exist. Many of the shows guests have appeared on Fresh Air from studios and sound setups all over the world. And Mosley, a public radio veteran who became Gross co-host in 2023, does her portions from Los Angeles. Gross remained in Philadelphia largely for personal reasons, she said. Her husband, the late jazz critic Francis Davis, was born here. Much of his immediate family lived in the area. He critiqued music and culture for decades in Philly including for The Inquirer. Its been a very good place for Fresh Air and for me, Gross said. And Ive always been grateful that the show was able to travel while I was able to put down roots. Former grounds of Naval Air Warfare Center Warminster where foams were once used routinely in firefighting training and contained per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, that contaminated local water supplies. Read more Bucks and Montgomery County residents who live near military bases had higher levels of four forever chemicals known as PFAS in their blood than the typical American, according to federal health officials. The chemical compounds are associated with higher levels of cholesterol, which is linked to increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Advertisement Those were among preliminary findings released Monday from research designed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). The work is one of the largest cross-sectional studies designed to figure out how PFAS exposure from drinking water may affect health. The Inquirer reported on initial findings earlier this month that nearly all adults and children who live near the military bases had detectable concentrations of seven different compounds known under the umbrella term per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. The compounds tested were: PFOS PFOA PFHxS PFNA PFDA PFUnDA MeFOSAA The federal study tested the blood of participants from eight states from 2019 to 2023 for PFAS, human-made chemicals used since the 1940s to make waterproof garments, nonstick pans, grease-resistant items, and firefighting foams. They are often referred to as forever chemicals because they resist breaking down in humans and the environment. Advertisement READ MORE: All adults and children tested near Pa. military bases have PFAS in their blood, study says Pennsylvanians living near the suburban military bases had among the highest average levels of at least four PFAS compounds among those tested across the eight states. The health impact, if any, was unclear from the preliminary results that were released. For example, the 1,252 adults and 89 children living near the bases had an average of 3.6 nanograms per milliliter (ng/ml) of the compound known as PFHxS in their blood. PFHxS was associated with higher blood pressure in the study. The national average was 2.1 ng/ml. Study participants from Pennsylvania lived near the Horsham Air Guard Station and former Naval Air Station, Joint Reserve Base Willow Grove, and the Naval Air Warfare Center Warminster site, where aqueous firefighting foam was widely used. The foam contained PFAS to create a film on a fuel surface to smother flames and suppress vapors. Researchers stressed that the results are preliminary, subject to change, and that no definitive conclusions have been made. Indeed, some findings were contradictory, finding that higher levels of some PFAS equated to lower associations of some health outcomes. They will present more details at a conference in August. Advertisement They looked at possible health outcomes of PFAS on lipids, thyroid issues, diabetes, blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, heart disease, and obesity. Lipids: Higher cholesterol overall in adults Marian Pavuk, a public health researcher, said the study measured total cholesterol, including HDL and LDL, and triglycerides in adults over the age of 18. It found that higher blood levels of five PFAS compounds were associated with higher levels of cholesterol overall. But they were not linked to higher triglycerides. Some PFAS appeared to have stronger associations with cholesterol levels than others, he said. Advertisement Researchers plan to study PFAS levels of children and lipids next. Thyroid: Different outcomes by gender The thyroid regulates metabolism, growth and development, mood, and reproduction, and synthesizes the hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Insufficient levels of hormones result in hypothyroidism. Excess results in hyperthyroidism. Overall, higher levels of PFAS were associated with a lower prevalence of hypothyroidism, said Michael Bloom, a professor at George Mason University. Advertisement However, in females, higher levels of PFHxS were associated with a higher prevalence of hypothyroidism. In males, higher PFOS, a specific type of PFAS, was associated with a higher prevalence of hyperthyroidism, he said. Diabetes: Not much impact Ann Starling, an environmental public health researcher, said previous studies were contradictory, with some showing those with higher levels of PFAS as more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. However, some showed no relationship. This study looked at whether there was a relationship between exposure to PFAS and blood markers of diabetes, such as glucose, insulin, and A1c. About 12% of the adults in the study had diabetes, similar to the U.S. population. Diabetes was not more likely to be detected among participants with higher PFAS levels, Starling said. In fact, some participants with higher blood PFAS levels were less likely to have diabetes. Blood pressure: Increases in younger adults Researcher Yuting Wang said exposure to PFAS has in previous studies been associated with an increased risk of pregnancy-induced high blood pressure and preeclampsia, a pregnancy condition marked by high blood pressure. Wang said higher PFOS and PFHxS were associated with higher blood pressure. The effects were stronger in younger adults aged 18 to 29, Wang said. And the effects were stronger on adults 25 to 30 years who fell into the midrange of body mass index. Metabolic syndrome: Some impact Scientist Abby Bline said the study looked at metabolic syndrome, an umbrella term for a group of conditions that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study examined MCP-1 and PAI-1, substances bodies make that occur at higher levels in people with metabolic syndrome. Researchers used waist size, HDL cholesterol, triglyceride, blood pressure, and glucose levels as factors in determining who had metabolic syndrome. Overall, people with higher PFOA and PFOS levels were less likely to have metabolic syndrome than people with lower levels. However, higher levels of the compounds in the blood were associated with higher levels of MCP-1. And higher PFOS and PFHxS were associated with higher levels of PAI-1. Heart disease: No association with PFAS This is the leading cause of death in the U.S. Some previous studies have linked PFAS to an increase in cardiovascular diseases. Others have shown no association. Of all study participants, 528, or 9.1%, reported they had heart disease. Celina Phillipson, a researcher, said most PFAS showed no association to heart disease. Obesity: Less likely Yerin Jung, a researcher, said the study looked at obesity indicators such as body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and body roundness index. The study found that participants with higher PFAS levels were less likely to be obese. Overall, the researchers said conclusions about cause-and-effect relationships are limited, because they dont know the levels of PFAS in blood before any diseases developed. Further, they said that participants were tested after they had already stopped drinking PFAS-contaminated water. Their levels of PFAS were likely higher before they stopped drinking it. Work continued at the site of the R.M. Palmer chocolate factory in West Reading, Pa., on March 27, 2023, after an explosion that left seven people dead. Read more Late afternoon on March 24, 2023, a powerful explosion tore through the R.M. Palmer Co. factory in West Reading, Berks County, sending columns of black smoke into the sky. The explosion killed seven people, injured 10, displaced three families, and caused $42 million in damages. The National Transportation Safety Board concluded the probable cause was a natural gas leak from a degraded plastic pipe. The gas leaked into the factory, famous for producing hollow chocolate Easter Bunnies, where it was ignited by an unknown source. Advertisement Victims, family members, and the factorys neighbors in the 4,500-resident borough have filed 27 lawsuits against R.M. Palmer, UGI Utilities, and DuPont. READ MORE: NTSB issues final report on 2023 explosion at West Reading chocolate factory that killed 7 workers West Reading is 65 miles northwest of Philadelphia, but the lawsuits were filed in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. And following a two-yearlong, contentious legal battle, a judge ruled this month that the cases will remain in Philly. None of the people who filed the lawsuits are from Philadelphia, and the sued businesses arent headquartered in the city. The fight demonstrates that venue, the court in which a case is litigated, is extremely important to attorneys on both sides. And indicators suggest plaintiff attorneys want to litigate in Philadelphia. After the Pennsylvania Supreme Court scrapped a rule that limited medical malpractice filings to the county where the alleged malpractice took place, the number of such lawsuits filed in Philadelphia surged from 275 in 2022 to 616 in 2024. Plaintiff attorneys say that they want to litigate in Philadelphia because of the courts efficiency, while defense attorneys believe the true motivation is an increased chance for a large verdict. Why Philadelphia? Philadelphia, a city plastered with personal-injury attorney advertising, has developed a reputation for large verdicts at times for out-of-county plaintiffs. In January 2024, a Philadelphia jury handed down a $2.2 billion verdict against agricultural giant Monsanto for claims that the companys weedkiller, Roundup, caused cancer in a Lycoming County man. (The verdict was reduced to $400 million in appeal.) In October 2023, another local jury hit Mitsubishi with a nearly $1 billion verdict in favor of a New Hope man who was left quadriplegic after a car crash. Philadelphia juries handed down 12 verdicts larger than $10 million in 2024. These so-called nuclear verdicts earned the Philadelphia court the top spot on the judicial hellholes list of the American Tort Reform Foundation, a group tied to an association that advocates for reform of civil litigation and represents business interests. But the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas is also an outlier in resolving cases quickly. READ MORE: Why there are so many billboards for personal-injury lawyers in the Philly area Only 9% of cases making it through the Philadelphia court, before any appeals to higher courts, are older than two years, according to data from the court. Statewide, the figure stands at 20%. And cases that are older than five years are extremely rare less than 1% while they represent 5% of cases statewide. None of the 10 largest counties in Pennsylvania has fewer old cases in its Court of Common Pleas. Defendants ability to delay justice for plaintiffs in such a horrific tragedy such as this is extremely limited and extremely frowned upon in Philadelphia County, said Andrew Duffy, a Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky attorney representing some explosion victims. Some defense attorneys dont buy the efficiency explanation. The data shows that filing a case in Philadelphia county, as opposed to another county, provides the plaintiffs with a proverbial lottery ticket, because by filing here you have an exponentially higher chance of an outsize verdict, said Casey Coyle, a Harrisburg attorney with Babst Calland. Venue fight The first order of business for UGI and R.M. Palmer in the chocolate factory lawsuits was to try to transfer them to Berks County. The companies first argued in court filings that they dont conduct enough business in Philadelphia. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court held in 2023 that if a company conducts even a relatively small amount of its overall business in a county, it is a proper venue. Attorneys for the victims submitted records showing that UGI, for example, reported more than $100 million in revenue from Philadelphia in the past five years. In September, Common Pleas Judge Gwendolyn Bright let the cases stay in Philadelphia. The companies then argued Philadelphia would be inconvenient for witnesses. R.M. Palmer argued in court filings that dozens of likely trial witnesses who live in West Reading would be burdened if the case remained in Philly. Their families, their jobs, their civic obligations, and even their health will suffer if they are required to travel to Philadelphia to testify in this matter, R.M. Palmer said in a memo to the court. UGI noted it would make it difficult for a Philadelphia jury to visit the site of the explosion if the court deems that necessary. Significantly, the distance from the Berks County Courthouse to the R.M. Palmer Factory is only 1.3 miles and a 7-minute drive, UGI said in filings. Attorneys for UGI and R.M. Palmer did not respond to requests for comment. Attorneys for the victims said in court filings that UGI and R.M. Palmer are grossly exaggerating the impact of an hour-and-15-minute trip to Philadelphia. Earlier this month, Bright denied the requests and kept the lawsuits in Philly. There is no data on overall denials of motions to transfer cases, but the court does keep track of medical malpractice cases that were transferred to other counties. Last year, fewer than 30 cases were transferred. The process through which the venue fight took place is another example of the Philadelphia courts ability to handle complex cases, Duffy said. Philadelphia consolidated the factory cases under Bright for issues that impact all the lawsuits, such as venue and rules of discovery. The judge holds monthly status conferences where all parties get updates on where things stand. You do not get that in other counties, Duffy said. Gov. Josh Shapiro during an interview at the Pennsylvania Energy & Innovation Summit at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pa., on Tuesday, July 15, 2025. Read more Gov. Josh Shapiro is suing the Trump administration, alongside 22 other states, over a policy that would block Planned Parenthood clinics from receiving Medicaid funding. The lawsuit, filed Tuesday, argues that a provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act the Republicans sprawling spending and tax bill passed earlier this month excludes Planned Parenthood health centers from federal funding in retribution for the organizations abortion advocacy. Advertisement The One Big Beautiful Bill Act prevents healthcare nonprofits that offer abortion and received more than $800,000 in Medicaid funding in 2023 from continuing to bill Medicaid. This unconstitutional decision threatens to close vital healthcare centers and deny Pennsylvanians essential, lifesaving care such as cancer screening and prevention, family planning services, and prenatal and postpartum care, Shapiro wrote in a statement on X. The lawsuit is the latest in a series of challenges brought by Shapiro against the Trump administration over federal funding cuts. It comes a day after a federal judge indefinitely blocked the Trump administration from withholding Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood, extending a temporary injunction won earlier this month. In addition to abortion services, Planned Parenthood provides a wide range of reproductive and sexual healthcare, including testing for sexually transmitted diseases, contraception, and cancer screenings. Federal funding cuts have put Planned Parenthood in dire financial straits. The organizations Southeastern Pennsylvania affiliate sees around 33,245 patients annually, a third of which are on Medicaid. Without Medicaid reimbursements, it would lose an estimated $3,136,000 annually, according to a fact sheet provided by the organization. And earlier this year, the Trump administrations decision to freeze Title X funds grants that cover family planning and other sexual health services for people who are under- or uninsured cost Philadelphias two busiest Planned Parenthood centers a total of around $332,000, Planned Parenthood Southeastern Pennsylvania president and CEO Dayle Steinberg said in an interview in June. They are targeting our patients and their right to have access to basic healthcare, Steinberg said in an interview on Friday. Not all other providers accept Medicaid, and Planned Parenthood does. We are a safety net provider, she added. Planned Parenthood affiliates across the country have been forced to shutter clinics in recent months due to lost funding, rising healthcare costs, and low reimbursement rates from insurers. For instance, in Michigan, four centers closed their doors this April, citing ongoing financial challenges and lost Title X funding. Planned Parenthood Association of Utah also closed two centers in May, due to attacks on healthcare funding by the Trump administration. The One Big Beautiful Bills restriction on Medicaid funds puts nearly 200 Planned Parenthood centers at risk of closure, the organization said in a news release earlier this month. At Planned Parenthoods Southeastern Pennsylvania centers, the uncertainty surrounding Medicaid funds has led to confusion for patients and financial strain for clinics, Steinberg said. Until Mondays court ruling, the organizations health centers were seeing Medicaid patients free of charge. Its always some attempt to take control over our funds, to punish us and the communities that we serve all because we do abortions, she said. Thats why we want to reassure them that they can still come to us and well provide care. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker kicked off budget season with her budget address to City Council in March. Read more A state-appointed board that oversees Philadelphias city budget on Monday approved Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers five-year financial plan after its staff expressed concerns about the citys increasing reliance on debt-financing and about President Donald Trumps threats to cut federal funds for cities. The Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority, which must approve Philadelphias financial blueprint each year for the city to continue receiving about $1 billion in state-controlled funds, voted 4-0 to green-light the plan. Board member Patrick Burns was absent. Advertisement The PICA vote is the final step in the citys annual budgeting process, which began in March when Parker unveiled her taxing and spending proposals. After making limited amendments, City Council in June largely approved Parkers plan for the fiscal year that began July 1. This Plan reflects the Citys continued commitment to fiscal stability and responsible budgeting, even in the face of complex economic challenges, PICA chair Kevin Vaughan said in a statement. We commend the Citys leadership for making strategic investments in core services while also building toward long-term pension stability and reserving resources to weather future uncertainty. Before voting to approve the plan, PICA vice chair Alan C. Kessler applauded the Parker administration for its handling of labor contracts following an eight-day strike by the largest city worker union that ended with a new deal largely in line with Parkers goals. READ MORE: They are my people: Mayor Cherelle Parker on why she stood firm in the DC 33 city worker strike Rosalind W. Sutch, the boards treasurer, pressed the city to be more transparent about spending projections for major initiatives. Her comments echoed concerns from some Council members who previously complained about Parker asking them to approve funds for major programs with limited information. Those include Parkers wellness ecosystem for people struggling with drug addiction and her Housing Opportunities Made Easy, or H.O.M.E., program, for which Council in June authorized the issuance of $800 million in city debt. Board member Michael A. Karp asked city Finance Director Rob Dubow about city aid to SEPTA, which is facing a major shortfall and is planning to dramatically limit service in the coming months if it does not secure more funding from Harrisburg. READ MORE: As Philly residents and schools brace for SEPTA cuts and late state funds, theres no rush for a budget in Harrisburg Dubow said the city has significantly increased its subsidy for SEPTA in recent years. In the new budget year, Philadelphia will send the transit agency $134.9 million, he said. I want to thank PICA for its thorough and comprehensive review of the Plan, Parker said in a statement, and for the Boards acknowledgement of the Parker Administrations unwavering commitment to fiscal stability. Shifting federal policies The state legislation that created PICA charges the agency with evaluating whether the citys financial plans are based on reasonable assumptions about revenue, spending, and the economy. As it almost always does, PICAs staff this year determined the city used reasonable assumptions in its plan. But it also laid out potential pitfalls that could derail the plan. Approval of this Plan reflects confidence in the Citys leadership and fiscal planning but that confidence must be matched by continued discipline, Marisa Waxman, PICAs executive director, said in a statement. Philadelphia will have to navigate known challenges from labor costs to economic uncertainty while remaining prepared for shifting federal policies and funding landscapes." Philadelphias General Fund, which is commonly referred to simply as the city budget and is largely responsible for operating expenses, uses very little federal funding. The $6.8 billion city budget that took effect July 1, for instance, anticipates only $61 million in federal aid to the General Fund. But federal aid is critical to other city funds. The HealthChoices Behavioral Health Revenue Fund, for instance, is projected to bring in about $1.5 billion from Medicaid this year for a program that provides mental health and substance abuse treatment to Philadelphians. READ MORE: How much could Philly lose if Trump cuts funding to cities? Heres what you need to know. The HealthChoices fund is not one of the municipal coffers that PICA is tasked with overseeing. But Waxman warned that cuts to federal aid in one part of the city budget could put pressure on Council and the administration to make up the difference by drawing from elsewhere. Federal funds, direct and passed through the Commonwealth, are a significant revenue source for many of the Citys funds that are not covered by the PICA Act, the PICA staffs analysis of Parkers five-year plan said. Trump has not yet moved to cut major funding streams earmarked for Philadelphia, as he has sought to do in New York City, Los Angeles, and other cities. But Philly was included in a Trump administration list of so-called sanctuary cities that decline to assist federal immigration enforcement and could be targeted for funding cuts. (The administration quickly rescinded the list after apparent mistakes were discovered, but the White House has vowed to revisit the issue.) READ MORE: Philly Mayor Cherelle L. Parker is among the Democrats trying to coexist with Trump Parker set aside $95 million in this years budget to cover potential cuts in federal aid. The city, however, takes in around $2 billion in federal support across all funds. Philly turns to hefty borrowing Even before Parker got Council to approve her plan to issue $800 million in city bonds starting this fall, Philadelphia was becoming increasingly reliant on debt. PICA staff noted that the capital budget, which includes debt-financed projects like infrastructure improvements, had grown from $3 billion in 2016 to nearly $5.5 billion last year and that it has become increasingly reliant on aid from Washington, a trend the report said should be monitored closely in light of changing federal funding priorities. The increasing size of the Capital Program, deemed hefty by Moodys rating agency, should be monitored to ensure it doesnt create unsustainable pressure on the General Fund over time, the report said. A decade ago, only $264 million, or 10%, of capital budget funding came from federal sources, compared to last years $1.1 billion, or 18%, according to PICAs analysis. PICAs past and present The Pennsylvania General Assembly created PICA in the early 1990s as part of a rescue package for the city, which was in the midst of a deep financial crisis. Wall Street credit rating agencies had given Philadelphias debt junk bond status, leaving the city unable to navigate massive shortfalls and putting it on the verge of insolvency. Using the states credit, PICA issued bonds that provided needed funds for the city budget and that would be paid back by the Philadelphia wage tax. To ensure the city was improving its financial practices, the PICA Act required the city to write a five-year financial plan that would be updated annually and approved by the bipartisan PICA board, which includes four legislative and one gubernatorial appointee. The city finished paying off those bonds in 2023, and the PICA Act originally called for the agency to be dissolved at that point. But city and state leaders had come to value PICAs impact on City Halls financial practices, and the General Assembly in 2022 voted to reauthorize it through 2047. Not everyone is a fan of PICA. Fiscal hawks have, at times, contended the board isnt an aggressive enough watchdog over the city budget because it almost always approves the five-year plans without controversy. On the other end of the spectrum, municipal unions including the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees District Council 33 which went on strike earlier this month in a bid for higher raises have criticized PICA since its inception, arguing that the board allows the city to shortchange its workers in the name of fiscal prudence. Parkers five-year plan sets aside $550 million for added costs from labor contracts. The new three-year DC 33 contract will add $115 million in costs during that period, and a recently approved three-year contract for AFSCME DC 47, a different union for city workers, will add $92 million. The administration is currently engaged in binding interest arbitration to determine new contracts for the unions for police officers and firefighters. The review panel, tasked with taking another look, focused on whether Cahills lumbar spine injury qualified as a non-threshold injury. Under the Act and its guidelines, this would require at least two clinical signs of radiculopathy. But the panel went in a different direction. It concluded that Cahill had suffered a tear in his lumbar disc cartilage and decided this was a non-threshold injury, giving him a 5% Whole Person Impairment rating. This opened the door for Cahill to claim damages, though not for non-economic loss, since his impairment didnt cross the 10% threshold. A new study by the University of New South Wales has found that Australias major cities face a growing threat from larger and more destructive hailstones as the climate continues to warm. Several regions are projected to see substantial increases in both the size and frequency of hail events. Down Syndrome Australias project will focus on supporting healthy ageing for people with Down syndrome. Working closely with advocates, families, and carers, the organisation will produce accessible guides to identify early signs of age-related conditions such as dementia, diabetes, osteoporosis, and menopause. Timing also played a significant role: nearly a quarter of claims were reported within six months of closing, with half reported within the first year. Almost all claims were lodged within three years, aligning with the standard W&I policy coverage period. An Arthur J. Gallagher & Co report highlighted recent attacks on British retail giants Marks & Spencer (M&S) and Co-op Food, noting these demonstrate the devastating impact cybercriminals can inflict on major retailers. The M&S attack left the iconic retailer unable to process contactless payments or operate online for nearly two weeks, whilst 200 workers lost shifts and shelves sat empty across the country. Soutter said for brokers considering cyber covers for their financial lines customers, it could be beneficial to keep both coverages with the same insurer. I believe there are benefits to having both professional indemnity (PI) and cyber policies with the same insurer, she said. If cyber coverage is specifically excluded under a PI policy, we would likely be able to offer a cyber quote alongside the PI policy. After the storm, Mesco submitted a claim for hail damage to its sheet metal, modified bitumen, and EPDM (a synthetic rubber) roofs. Motorists Mutuals initial adjustment came in at $7,806.75, a figure Mesco disputed. The company then invoked the policys appraisal provision, which allows either party to demand an appraisal if they disagree on the value of the property or the amount of loss. Each party picks an appraiser, and if they cant agree, an umpire is brought in. The policy also stated, If there is an appraisal, we will still retain our right to deny the claim. The latest salvo has come from Marsh USA, which filed a complaint in US District Court in Manhattan against four of its former senior Florida executives. The lawsuit alleges that Michael Parrish, Giselle Lugones, Robert Lynn, and Julie Layton covertly conspired with London-based Howden to rapidly launch its US operations, bringing over more than 100 Marsh employees in a sweeping defection. The appeals court conditionally granted mandamus relief in part, directing the trial court to vacate its order striking Trisuras plea in intervention, deny Selveras motion to strike, vacate its order denying the motions to dismiss, and enter an order dismissing Eagle 1 and Maretzki from the lawsuit with prejudice. The court held that Trisuras statutory election under Section 542A.006 was valid and required dismissal of the claims against Eagle 1 and Maretzki, even though Trisura was not originally a party to the lawsuit. The court reasoned that the claims against the adjusters were factually based on the insurance policy and Trisuras claim determination, and that the law allows an insurer to make the election before or after a lawsuit is filed. A Rhode Island citys insurer will pay $550,000 to settle the case of a resident who was twice wrongfully arrested and jailed for a crime he did not commit. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) announced the city of Woonsocket has agreed to the settlement with Mack Blackie without admitting any liability for the actions of the police officer who was responsible for the false arrests. The $550,000 will be paid by the citys insurer, the Rhode Island Interlocal Risk Management Trust. According the the ACLU, in August 2022, after a Woonsocket apartment was broken into, one of the residents told the investigating police officer that a person known to him as Black had entered the home. The witness told the officer multiple times that the person he saw was not Mack Blackie, whom he also knew, but was another person. Yet according to the complaint, the officer falsely reported that the man positively identified the suspect male as being Mack Blackie. He also failed to arrange a photo line-up and later falsely represented that the witness told another police officer that Blackie was the suspect, according to the complaint. Blackie was arrested. Despite having a medical condition, he was held overnight in custody, taken to court where he collapsed, and only then medically treated, resulting in him being hospitalized for several days. A few months later, he was rearrested and charged with felony breaking and entering and assault based on the August 2022 incident. Because he was on probation at the time, Blackie was incarcerated for 18 days without bail as a probation violator. When bail was finally set, because he could not afford the $100, he was kept in jail for another 13 days, until a nonprofit organization where he volunteered posted his bail. In February 2023, at a pre-trial conference, the witness saw Blackie in the courthouse hallway. Immediately, he realized the police had arrested the wrong man, and he informed the prosecutor. The charges against Blackie were dropped. The ACLU lawsuit, filed last October in U.S. District Court against the Woonsocket police officer and the city, argued that a series of actions taken against Blackie violated his constitutional right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures, and constituted false arrest and imprisonment and malicious prosecution. According to the ACLU, the police officer was suspended for 10 days and demoted for failing to follow standard investigative procedures but remains on the force. Mr. Blackie spent 31 days in prison 31 days of his life that he will never get back, said Joshua D. Xavier, the ACLU attorney who represented Blackie. Xavier said his client continues to suffer distress and psychological pain as a result of being twice criminally charged, incarcerated, and prosecuted for crimes he did not commit. Topics Carriers Law Enforcement The University of Virginias Darden School of Business suspended its partnerships with several organizations dedicated to increasing opportunities for underrepresented groups in business schools amid persistent calls from the White House to dismantle diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in order to maintain federal funding. The decision was part of a broader review of policies, programs and practices across the University of Virginia, UVA Darden spokesperson McGregor McCance wrote in a statement. UVA Darden suspended a three-decade long partnership with the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, which aims to increase Black, Native American and Hispanic representation in business schools, and a two-decade long connection to the Forte Foundation, which advocates for more women in business education. The school also suspended its ties with Reaching Out MBA, which offers scholarships and networking opportunities for LGBTQ+ students, and Management Leadership for Tomorrow, which focuses on expanding economic mobility and building better workplaces. The Trump administration has been targeting DEI programs at educational institutions, alleging they constitute a form of racial discrimination. In a letter sent to schools in February, the Department of Education threatened institutions that failed to comply with the loss of federal funding. And recently, the administration has followed through on those threats. Read More: Harvard Ordered to End DEI as Part of Trump Funding Ultimatum UVA is being investigated by the Department of Justice over its DEI policies, which may result in the termination of federal funds, according to a June 16 letter sent to the head of UVAs board. The probe prompted University of Virginia President James Ryan to resign last month. The US investigation has expanded to include UVAs business school after America First Legal, a nonprofit law firm founded by Stephen Miller, the current White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, sent a letter to the Department of Justice, raising concerns about UVA Dardens partnerships with Reaching Out MBA and the Consortium for Graduate Study. The letter alleges that external partnerships and scholarships based on impermissible characteristics violated President Donald Trumps executive orders from January that ban DEI in the federal government and for federal contractors. In response to a changing political climate, a number of schools have shuttered DEI programs they once championed. The University of Michigan announced in late March that it would close its DEI office and re-evaluate some of its initiatives to ensure compliance with federal policies. The University of Michigans Ross School of Business remains a Consortium partner and a Forte Foundation member school, a school spokesperson said. Read More: University of Michigan Cuts DEI Program Amid Trump Pressure The University of North Carolina System repealed its DEI policy in May 2024, following a vote by its board of governors. UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School also remains a Consortium partner and member school of the Forte Foundation, a spokesperson confirmed. UVA Darden currently ranks 51st in diversity, according to Bloomberg Businessweeks 2024-2025 US MBA program diversity index, which surveyed 76 schools. About 77% of its students are white, 11% are Asian, and about 5% are Black and 5% are Hispanic. Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Topics K-12 The Maine Fire Marshal reports it continues to investigate a fatal explosion over the weekend at the Powder Horn Campground in Old Orchard Beach. On July 26, 2025, a camper explosion was reported at the campground. Old Orchard Beach fire and emergency medical teams responded and found two women with severe burn injuries. Both women were transported to Maine Medical Center in Portland, where they died from their injuries the next day. The victims have been identified as Alesia Ventura-Large and Nancy Pilsch, both of Massachusetts. The investigation remains active, however, initial findings indicate that liquified petroleum gas had been leaking into and beneath the park model camper. The gas is believed to have ignited when one of the women lit a candle, triggering the explosion. The investigation will include further analysis of the gas systems. In light of this tragedy, the fire marshal is urging the public to consider installing gas detectors in any living space where propane or natural gas appliances are used. During a pivotal push by Ukraine to retake territory from Russia in late September 2022, Elon Musk gave an order that disrupted the counteroffensive and dented Kyivs trust in Starlink, the satellite internet service the billionaire provided early in the war to help Ukraines military maintain battlefield connectivity. According to three people familiar with the command, Musk told a senior engineer at the California offices of SpaceX, the Musk venture that controls Starlink, to cut coverage in areas including Kherson, a strategic region north of the Black Sea that Ukraine was trying to reclaim. We have to do this, Michael Nicolls, the Starlink engineer, told colleagues upon receiving the order, one of these people said. Staffers complied, the three people told Reuters, deactivating at least a hundred Starlink terminals, their hexagon-shaped cells going dark on an internal map of the companys coverage. The move also affected other areas seized by Russia, including some of Donetsk province further east. Upon Musks order, Ukrainian troops suddenly faced a communications blackout, according to a Ukrainian military official, an advisor to the armed forces, and two others who experienced Starlink failure near the front lines. Soldiers panicked, drones surveilling Russian forces went dark, and long-range artillery units, reliant on Starlink to aim their fire, struggled to hit targets. As a result, the Ukrainian military official and the military advisor said, troops failed to surround a Russian position in the town of Beryslav, east of Kherson, the administrative center of the region of the same name. The encirclement stalled entirely, said the military official in an interview. It failed. Ultimately, Ukraines counteroffensive succeeded in reclaiming Beryslav, the city of Kherson and some additional territory Russia had occupied. But Musks order, which hasnt previously been reported, is the first known instance of the billionaire actively shutting off Starlink coverage over a battlefield during the conflict. The decision shocked some Starlink employees and effectively reshaped the front line of the fighting, enabling Musk to take the outcome of a war into his own hands, another one of the three people said. The account of the command counters Musks narrative of how he has handled Starlink service in Ukraine amid the war. As recently as March, in a post on X, his social media site, Musk wrote: We would never do such a thing. Musk and Nicolls didnt respond to requests from Reuters for comment. A SpaceX spokesperson said by email that the news agencys reporting is inaccurate and referred reporters to an X post earlier this year in which the company said: Starlink is fully committed to providing service to Ukraine. The spokesperson didnt specify any inaccuracies in this report or answer a lengthy list of questions regarding the incident, Starlinks role in the Ukraine war, or other details regarding its business. The office of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and the countrys Ministry of Defence didnt respond to requests for comment. Starlink still provides service to Ukraine, and the Ukrainian military relies on it for some connectivity. Zelenskiy as recently as this year has publicly expressed gratitude to Musk for Starlink. It isnt clear what prompted Musks command, when exactly he gave it, or precisely how long the outage lasted. The three people familiar with the order said they believed it stemmed from concerns Musk expressed later that Ukrainian advances could provoke nuclear retaliation from Russia. One of the people said the shutoff transpired on September 30, 2022. The two others said it was around then, but didnt recall the exact date. Some senior U.S. officials shared Musks concerns that Russia would make good on threats to escalate, one former White House staffer told Reuters. Musks order was an early glimpse of the power the magnate now wields in geopolitics and global security because of Starlink, a fast-growing satellite internet service that barely existed early this decade and now provides connectivity even in remote areas of the world. Even before his brief role as financial backer and advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump, the success of Starlink and the unrivaled connectivity it offers across the planet had given Musk increasing influence with political leaders, governments and militaries worldwide. Musks sway in military affairs in Washington and beyond through Starlinks dominance in satellite communications and SpaceXs clout in space launches has reached a dimension previously limited to sovereign governments, alarming some regulators and lawmakers. Elon Musks current global dominance exemplifies the dangers of concentrated power in unregulated domains, Martha Lane Fox, a member of Britains upper house of parliament, said during a debate earlier this year. The parliamentarian is a businesswoman and former board member at Twitter, the social media site that Musk acquired in 2022 and rebranded as X. Its control, Lane Fox said of Starlink, rests solely with Musk, allowing his whims to dictate access to vital infrastructure. Musks political influence, and his massive business with the U.S. federal government, are now being put to the test. Since leaving his role advising Trump, Musk has publicly feuded with the president, announced plans to create a new political party, and criticized a signature spending bill that he said will expand the budget deficit and destroy jobs. Trump, for his part, has threatened to end government contracts and subsidies for Musks companies, including lucrative new defense projects. Whatever the reason for Musks decision, the shutoff over Kherson and other regions surprised some involved with the Ukraine war from troops on the ground to U.S. military and foreign policy officials, who after Russias full-scale invasion that February had worked to secure Starlink service for Ukrainian forces. Panicked calls by Ukrainian officials during the outage to seek information from Pentagon counterparts, five people familiar with the incident said, were met with few explanations for what could have caused it. The U.S. Department of Defense declined to comment. Reuters couldnt determine whether White House or Pentagon officials after the shutdown had any exchanges with Musk over the outage. The Kherson episode is distinct from an earlier report of an incident that purportedly occurred that same September, involving Crimea just to the south, and raised concerns about Musks ability to influence the conflict in Ukraine. In his 2023 biography of Musk, author Walter Isaacson reported that the tycoon had ordered Starlink to disable coverage in Crimea, which Russia had annexed from Ukraine after a 2014 invasion that the international community condemned as illegal. Musk, Isaacson wrote, believed a planned Ukrainian attack on Russian vessels in the Crimean port of Sevastopol could prompt nuclear retaliation. After the book was published, Musk denied a shutdown, saying that there had never been coverage in Crimea to begin with. He said he had, rather, rejected a Ukrainian request to provide service ahead of Kyivs planned attack. Isaacson later conceded his account was flawed. A spokesperson at Isaacsons publisher declined to comment or make him available for an interview. SpaceX also said in 2023 that it had taken unspecified steps to prevent Ukraine from using Starlink for certain activities, including drone attacks. Our intent was never to have them use it for offensive purposes, Gwynne Shotwell, the companys president, said at a conference in Washington in February of that year. There are things that we can do, and have done to prevent it, she added, without providing further detail. Reuters couldnt determine if the shutdown affecting Kherson was among the steps she was referring to. Shotwell didnt respond to requests for comment for this article. Following the start of the Kherson shutdown, word of an outage emerged in some media reports. At the time, it wasnt clear to those who lost connectivity whether a technical problem, sabotage or some other factor was responsible. Early in the war, Russia had orchestrated a large cyberattack that disrupted service of another satellite operator, Western officials have said, creating suspicions around any outage and leaving a void quickly filled by Starlink. Russia has denied it conducts offensive cyberattacks. As of April 2025, according to Ukrainian government social media posts, Kyiv has received more than 50,000 Starlink terminals. Easily transported and deployed, the pizza-box-sized devices communicate with thousands of SpaceX satellites now circling the globe. An initial batch of terminals was provided to Ukraine by SpaceX itself. Further terminals have arrived from donors including Poland, the United States and Germany. This account of the outage, and the growing dependence on Musk by governments and militaries worldwide, is based on interviews with more than three dozen people with knowledge of SpaceXs operations and the companys technology. These people included current and former employees, U.S. and European military officials, and senior politicians and diplomats. The reporting puts a spotlight on Musks control of services now critical to countries including the U.S., which has about $22 billion in contracts with SpaceX. Underscoring the point himself during his recent dispute with Trump, Musk threatened to decommission a SpaceX spacecraft the U.S. now relies upon to transport astronauts and critical cargo. His threat, later retracted, unnerved attorneys at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, who felt forced to explore whether Musks warning could be considered a notice of contract termination, according to two people familiar with the matter. NASA didnt respond to Reuters requests for comment. There needs to be some contractual assurances that Musk wont cut off services to the U.S. government, said Lori Garver, a former deputy administrator of the agency. We will need to consider how comfortable the U.S. will be at putting SpaceX in the critical path on national security. As countries increasingly rely on tech companies for everything from cyber defense to data storage, the question of dependence on one or a few dominant service providers will apply to other nations, too. Governments have to think through what that means, said Marcus Willett, former deputy head of Britains Government Communications Headquarters intelligence agency and now a senior adviser to the International Institute for Strategic Studies, a London-based think tank. We Need Assurances SpaceX is the first company to establish an extensive network of communication satellites in low-Earth orbit, a region of space that is closer to the planet than areas where such satellites historically reside. The proximity of satellites that now make up the companys constellation allows Starlink to offer space-based wireless connectivity that is faster than any previously available. Starlink on Thursday suffered a rare global outage of several hours, the company said, because of an internal software problem. A Ukrainian military commander in a social media post said Starlink is down across the entire front, updating the post two and a half hours later to say connectivity had returned. With more than 7,900 satellites now in orbit, SpaceX has become the worlds largest satellite operator. Its devices, which relay signals among each other to create a network that communicates with the ground, account for about two-thirds of all active satellites in space, according to Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at the Center for Astrophysics, Harvard & Smithsonian. Starlink began rolling out service in 2020 and now has more than six million customers in over 140 countries, territories and markets, according to a June Starlink social media post. Novaspace, a consulting firm near Paris, estimates that Starlink in 2025 will generate about $9.8 billion in revenue for SpaceX, or about 60% of the companys income. SpaceX is privately held and doesnt disclose financial information, but Musk recently said he expects the rocket company to post revenues of about $15.5 billion this year. Rivals are scrambling to get in on the market. OneWeb, a European service owned by Eutelsat, a French company, is the furthest along, boasting about 650 satellites in low-Earth orbit. Amazon this year launched its first satellites for Project Kuiper, a $10 billion effort to compete. China is developing multiple networks, including a state-backed venture known as SpaceSail. Still, Starlink has made much of its first-mover advantage. Its terminals, priced as low as a few hundred dollars for standard models, are known for being affordable and easy to use. There is no existing system right now to replace Starlink, said Grace Khanuja, an analyst at Novaspace, the consultancy near Paris. Compared to the geostationary satellites historically used for communications, the sheer number of SpaceX satellites helps make Starlink less vulnerable to jamming and attacks. Its far reach makes it valuable in remote and hostile terrain from battlefields to airspace to high seas. In Ukraine, it has facilitated activities including communications, intelligence and drone piloting. Some Western militaries not engaged in conflict are also using the service. Britains armed forces, for instance, three years ago began using Starlink for welfare purposes, including personal communications for troops, the Ministry of Defence said in response to a freedom of information request. The ministry said it has fewer than 1,000 Starlink terminals and doesnt employ them for sensitive military communications. Spains navy is also using Starlink, but only for recreation and leisure of troops, a spokesperson said. That will change, said Chris Moore, a retired air vice-marshal in the British military, speaking about high-speed space-based connectivity. Moore also worked as a OneWeb executive and is now a defense industry consultant. Satellites in low-Earth orbit, he said, offer too many advantages for militaries to ignore, especially for modern developments such as drone warfare, a signature element of the Ukraine conflict. Some leaders are leery. In Taiwan, ever wary of conflict with China, officials have expressed concern about Musks extensive business interests on the mainland, including a major factory for Tesla, the electric vehicle company he controls. Eager for communications backups in the event of war, Taiwan is developing its own low-Earth orbit satellite network. Taiwanese officials have said the government could partner with Amazons Kuiper, too. Spokespersons for the Taiwanese government said it welcomes international satellite providers but that Starlink hasnt applied for a license in Taiwan. They didnt respond to questions about Taipeis relationship with Musk. In Italy, the government is evaluating whether to employ Starlink for secure communications among the government, defense and other officials. But some officials, including President Sergio Mattarella, remain unconvinced by SpaceXs assurances that its service would be secure and free from meddling by Musk. More than Musks word, we need assurances that we cant be shut down, and especially that he cant access the data, said a person familiar with the views of the president, who is an influential figure with the armed forces. Poland, a major donor to Ukraine, told Reuters it employs Starlink as well as other military and commercial satellite systems. A mix of providers, Polish officials have said, offers the most security, even if at high cost. In peacetime, you want the best product at the best price, Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski said in response to a question from Reuters at a press conference in April. In wartime, you want redundancy. You want security. You want duplicated systems, so that if one fails, you can still use the other. There Was Not a Connection Even before the conflict began, documents reviewed by Reuters show, SpaceX had already been in discussions with the U.S. government about providing Starlink in Ukraine. Rollout began after Russian troops crossed the border on February 24, 2022. Two days later, Mykhailo Fedorov, a deputy prime minister in Ukraine, requested Musks help. We ask you to provide Ukraine with Starlink stations, he wrote on Twitter. Musk responded in 10 hours. Starlink service is now active in Ukraine, he tweeted. More terminals en route. Poland was also instrumental in the early days of the war, shipping thousands of terminals to Ukraine shortly after the invasion. Warsaw this year said it has purchased about 25,000 Starlink terminals for the effort roughly half the total now in Ukraine and that it is paying the subscription costs to keep them connected. So far, it has spent about $89 million on Starlink for Ukraine. The equipment has made a critical difference for Ukraine. Day-to-day bureaucracy has also benefited. Early in the conflict, Ukraine stored state data in the cloud and relied on Starlink to access it, helping keep some government operations running. We wouldnt be anywhere without Starlink, said Vadym Prystaiko, Ukraines ambassador to Britain until 2023. The whole state was preserved. On the battlefield, Ukraine quickly deployed Starlink to enable front-line troops to communicate with commanders. The service also allowed drone operators to transmit surveillance video streams and locate and attack Russian targets. Reuters couldnt establish just when such attacks may have become a concern for Musk or SpaceX. By September 2022, a major Ukrainian counteroffensive was underway. Kyivs forces were pushing back into territories, including Kherson, that Russia had captured. The drive threatened Russian supply lines, prompting Moscow to threaten the West, including oblique references to Starlink. That month, in a statement to the United Nations, Russia noted the use of elements of civilian, including commercial, infrastructure in outer space for military purposes. It warned that quasi-civilian infrastructure may become a legitimate target for retaliation. It isnt clear whether Russia has tried to attack any Starlink facilities. Musk has said, however, that Moscow has repeatedly sought to block its connectivity. SpaceX is spending significant resources combating Russian jamming efforts, Musk wrote on X last year. This is a tough problem. The Kremlin declined to comment on whether it has sought to interfere with Starlink. The Ministry of Defence didnt respond to a request for comment. Starlink isnt licensed for either civilian or military use in Russia. As Ukraines counterattack intensified, Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 21, 2022, ordered a partial mobilization of reservists, Russias first since World War II. He also threatened to use nuclear weapons if Russias own territorial integrity were at risk. Around this time, Musk engaged in weeks of backchannel conversations with senior officials in the administration of President Joe Biden, according to three former U.S. government officials and one of the people familiar with Musks order to stop service. During those conversations, the former White House staffer told Reuters, U.S. intelligence and security officials expressed concern that Putin could follow through on his threats. Musk, this person added, worried too, and asked U.S. officials if they knew where and how Ukraine used Starlink on the battlefield. Soon after, he ordered the shutdown. Reuters couldnt ascertain the full geographic extent of the outage, but the three people familiar with the stoppage said that it covered regions that had recently been taken by Russia. Starlink coverage prior to the order, they said, had been active up to what had been Ukraines border with Russia before the full-scale invasion. Taras Tymochko, a Ukrainian military signals specialist stationed in the Kherson region at the time, said an outage disrupted communications for troops, including colleagues on the front, for several hours. If you were using Starlink to provide surveillance of the front line, you pretty much would be blind, said Tymochko, who is now a consultant to Come Back Alive, a non-governmental organization that procures military equipment for Ukraines armed forces. Maryna Tsirkun, a drone expert at Aerorozvidka, an aerial reconnaissance organization that works closely with the Ukrainian military, was also in southern Ukraine at the time. Starlink signals failed as Ukrainian troops began to push toward terrain seized by Russia, she told Reuters. When we started to proceed there was not a connection, she said. The outage she and colleagues experienced lasted several days. On October 3, Musk angered Zelenskiy and other Ukrainian officials by tweeting a suggestion that locals in regions annexed by Russia vote on whether they should remain a part of Ukraine. A day later, Musk tweeted his concern about the conflict spiraling. I still very much support Ukraine, he tweeted, but am convinced that massive escalation of the war will cause great harm to Ukraine and possibly the world. Three days later, following one media report about a Starlink outage, Musk tweeted that whats happening on the battlefield, thats classified. He added that SpaceX by the end of 2022 was on track to spend $100 million on Ukraine. Although the Polish and U.S. governments by then had begun donations of their own, the billionaire complained about the cost of the equipment and services SpaceX was providing. SpaceX cannot fund the existing system indefinitely, Musk wrote in a mid-October post. The next day, in another tweet, he reversed course. To hell with it, he wrote, well just keep funding Ukraine govt for free. After the outage, Kyiv worked to charm Musk. In November 2022, Fedorov, the government minister, publicly expressed trust in the service. Months later just after Shotwell, the SpaceX president, said the company had taken steps to prevent Ukraine from using Starlink for drone attacks Fedorov in an interview with a Ukrainian news site recognized Starlinks ability to geofence coverage, selectively limiting signals in some areas. By February 2023, however, Starlink was fully functional in Ukraine, he said. All the Starlink terminals in Ukraine work properly, Fedorov told Ukrainska Pravda, the news site. Fedorov, who recently assumed the title of first deputy prime minister, didnt respond to a request for comment about Ukraines use of Starlink in the war. In mid-2023, the U.S. Department of Defense signed an agreement with SpaceX to pay for Starlink coverage in Ukraine. Terms of the contract werent disclosed, but Quilty Space, a Florida-based research firm, said the Pentagon has an ongoing $537 million agreement with SpaceX to provide satellite communications to Ukraine. Its not clear whether SpaceX is still footing the bill for any equipment or connectivity. As the war has evolved, so has Ukraines use of Musks technology. Ukrainian drone specialists and Prystaiko, the former ambassador to Britain, said some attack devices, including maritime and bomber drones, now have Starlink antennas fitted to them. The antennas, in the case of sea drones, help operators guide the devices and view video feeds to classify targets, said Sidharth Kaushal, a senior research fellow at Royal United Services Institute, a London-based defense think tank. Its uncertain whether such use contravenes SpaceXs desire that Starlink not be employed for offense. Ukraine continues to explore alternatives that could complement or back up Starlink if the service became unavailable, a senior government official told Reuters. Ukraines government has expressed interest in European satellite projects, European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier told Reuters. That includes GOVSATCOM, an EU project to pool satellite resources from member states and industry to provide services to governments, he said. Privately, though, some Ukrainian officials say the existing alternatives to Starlink have limitations. It takes time, it takes money, the senior government official told Reuters. With Starlink, he added, we have a working system. Musk himself has boasted of Starlinks importance to Kyiv. My Starlink system is the backbone of the Ukrainian army, he wrote on X in March. Their entire front line would collapse if I turned it off. (Reporting by Joey Roulette in Washington, Cassell Bryan-Low in London and Tom Balmforth in Kyiv. Additional reporting by Andrea Shalal in Washington, Giselda Vagnoni and Angelo Amante in Rome, Barbara Erling in Warsaw, and Aislinn Laing in Madrid. Editing by Joe Brock and Paulo Prada.) Photograph: A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lifts off from Pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center, Florida, on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. (Craig Bailey/Florida Today via AP) Marsh Japan has agreed to purchase Mitsubishi Electric Corp.s in-house insurance agency, Mitsubishi Electric Insurance Service Co. Ltd., in a share transfer agreement that will be completed on Nov. 4. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed. Since it was established in 1999, Mitsubishi Electric Insurance Service has provided commercial lines broking to group companies as well as personal lines products for employees and their families. Marsh Japan was founded in 1955 as a Japanese subsidiary of Marsh LLC, the insurance brokerage subsidiary of Marsh McLennan. Mitsubishi Electric said it has been weighing the future of its insurance business in its portfolio, aiming to strengthen the companys overall business structure. Considering the evolving business environment for insurance agencies in Japan, Mitsubishi Electric determined having Mitsubishi Electric Insurance Service [team] up with Marsh Japan would best position the company for long-term growth supported by Marsh LLCs global insurance expertise, the company added. Mitsubishi Electric Insurance Service provides corporate business risk management for group companies with Japanese and global exposures, according to the companys website. Products include liability, property, cargo, workers compensation, commercial auto, commercial umbrella, directors and officers and cyber. In March, Aon Japan completed the acquisition of the in-house insurance agency business of Mitsubishi Chemical Group (MCG). Aon now provides corporate and personal lines insurance to MCG group companies and employees in Japan. Source: Mitsubishi Electric Corp. Topics Mergers & Acquisitions This edition of International People Moves details London-based appointments at the reinsurance broker Guy Carpenter and the insurer Tokio Marine HCC International. A summary of these new hires follows here. Carpenter Taps RenRes Flynn as Head of Global Clients, Global Specialties Guy Carpenter, the reinsurance brokerage business of Marsh McLennan, announced the appointment of Matthew Flynn to the newly created role of head of Global Clients, Global Specialties. Based in London, Flynn will join the Global Specialities leadership team and report to James Boyce, CEO Global Specialties. He is expected to join the firm in the coming months. In this role, Flynn will be responsible for driving Guy Carpenters strategic value proposition for this client segment across Global Specialties, reflecting the firms strategic commitment to its global clients. Flynn brings more than 20 years of industry experience to the role and was most recently head of Property Catastrophe Assumed Retro and UK Property at Renaissance Re. Prior to this, Flynn worked at Guy Carpenter from 2011 to 2018, where he was a managing director and senior broker, specializing in property retrocession for London, Bermuda, and global clients. *** Tokio Marine HCC International Names Bridges as Chief Claims Officer Tokio Marine HCC International (TMHCCI), a member of the Tokio Marine HCC (TMHCC) group of companies, based in Houston, Texas, has announced the appointment of Gavin Bridges as chief claims officer of TMHCCI. He will be based in London and will report to Thibaud Hervy, chief executive officer (CEO) of TMHCCI. Bridges joins TMHCCI with over three decades of experience across the insurance industry. Most recently, he was head of European Market and Legacy Claims at QBE, where he was responsible for leading its European growth ambitions, refining its data lead solutions and driving portfolio optimization. Prior to QBE, Bridges spent 15 years at Equity Insurance Group, where he became claims manager for its Lloyds Reinsurance and Overseas business. At TMHCCI, Bridges will focus on strengthening the businesss claims strategy, enhancing its client-centric philosophy and collaborating closely with TMHCCI underwriting teams to achieve new heights of excellence in service for their clients. Bridges appointment follows a series of recent senior leadership changes at TMHCCI, with Thibaud Hervy promoted to CEO and Simon Button promoted to international chief underwriting officer. Gavin is well known within the industry and brings with him invaluable experience in the management of international claims teams. Claims servicing is a critical part of our commitment to our clients and TMHCCI understands that clients value transparency and responsiveness above all else, commented Hervy. Gavin will lead various initiatives to ensure that our claims function remains agile, forward-thinking, and aligned with the evolving needs of our clients and with our underwriting strategy. Tokio Marine HCC is a member of the Tokio Marine Group, a global company founded in 1879 with a market capitalization of $74 billion as of March 31, 2025. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Tokio Marine HCC is a leading specialty insurance group with offices in the United States, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Topics Claims East Jordan Plastics, Inc., a manufacturer of plastic horticultural containers, violated federal law when it subjected female production employees to sexual harassment before taking untimely remedial action, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) charged in a lawsuit. According to the EEOCs lawsuit, female employees at East Jordan Plastics Beaverton, Michigan location were sexually harassed by a male co-worker. The harassing conduct included sexually explicit comments and inappropriate touching. Because East Jordan Plastics received at least two complaints from different women, it was aware of the harassment, but it took no disciplinary action against the male employee. The company finally conducted interviews and terminated the harasser, but only after yet another woman complained. The companys alleged conduct violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits sexual harassment. The EEOC filed suit (EEOC v. East Jordan Plastics, Case No. 2:25-cv-12302) in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan after first attempting to reach a pre-litigation settlement through its administrative conciliation process. Source: EEOC Topics Lawsuits Michigan Manufacturing Net income at The Hartford increased 35% to $990 million in the second quarter 2025 as personal lines returned to profitability compared to the same period a year ago. Q2 property/casualty written premiums increased 8% compared to Q2 2024. Premiums increased 8% and 7%, respectively, for business and personal insurance segments compared to 2024. Total catastrophe losses were $212 million, pretax, versus $280 a year ago. Losses this year were due to tornado, wind, and hail events mostly in the South and Midwest regions. In personal lines, Q2 net income was $91 million compared to a loss of $11 million for Q2 2024. The underwriting gain was $55 million to reverse a loss of $63 million a year ago. The combined ratio for personal lines was 94.1much better than last years Q2 result of 107.4. The combined ratio for personal auto was 94, 11.4 points better than the Q2 result last year. Homeowners combined ratio of 94.4 is compared with 114.5 in Q2 2024. Price increases at renewal in automobile and homeowners were 14% and 12.7%, respectively. The Hartfords business insurance segment contributed $696 million to the total Q2 net income figure, increasing 29% compared to net income in the segment last year during Q2. Underwriting profit was up 39% to $444 million and the combined ratio improved 2.8 points to 87. Pretax catastrophe losses in Q2 were down to $114 million from $155 for 2024. Second quarter 2025 written premiums of $3.8 billion were up 8% from second quarter 2024, with increases across the segment, including 9% growth in both small business and global specialty, driven in part by solid new business growth and strong renewal written pricing, The Hartford said. Topics Trends Profit Loss Pricing Trends As data center construction booms across the United States, a pair of legal experts recently said the lack of commercial insurance products customized for data centers present potential pitfalls that could surface if operators arent paying close attention to policy language. Amy Koss, an associate attorney at law firm Reed Smith, said in an interview with Insurance Journal that while language in existing property/casualty policies can be helpful, its not tailored exactly to what data centers need. Sometimes, taking off-the-shelf products and trying to make them fit the unique needs and challenges of the countrys growing number of data centers works fine. Other times, they just dont quite fit. Weve been a little bit surprised, Stephen Raptis, a partner at Reed Smith, said in a June interview. We expected by now that there would be data center-specific insurance policies out there. But weve talked to lots of brokers, and nobody knows about any that exist. Koss and Raptis believed it is a matter of whennot ifspecialty products would be developed for these facilities. They will come in time. Because the [data center] proliferation in the last five years has been unbelievable. Data centers have been around for a while but the proliferation in the last five [years] has been amazing. Demand may be beginning to drive change. Representatives from two large insurance brokers told IJ about a newly launched product and program tailored specifically to data centers. Data Center Boom Although numbers vary by publication, estimates show thousands of data centers are currently operating in the U.S. More are seemingly on the way; data center construction starts reached unprecedented levels in 2024, according to Dodge Construction, with projects totaling more than $9 billion and 12 million square feet in the first six months of the year. Dodge reports that construction spending on data centers has grown by double digits year-over-year in each month since November 2021. In late May, data center construction spending was up 33% year-over-year, as AI-driven demand for computing power remained strong. According to data from Bloomberg NEF, data centers are projected to account for 8.6% of all US electricity demandmore than double their 3.5% share todaywithin the next decade. Unique Insurance Challenges Once operational, these high-tech facilities carry unique insurance considerations. Raptis and Koss help clients identify coverage gaps and write language that may work for both the policyholder and insurer. The clients insurance brokers then take this feedback and work to implement it into policy language to safeguard the client from potential issues. For example, an insurance company may require fire suppression systems like sprinklers to insure a property. Those may be great for an office building or retail store, but data centers are essentially warehouses full of electrical equipment, and wetting an entire room of expensive technology would be disastrous. In most property policies, the servers housed inside data centers are covered as physical assets. However, Raptis explained a lot of these policies, if not most of them, have specific exclusions for data. If the servers are physically damaged, they are replacedbut what about all the data saved on them? That can be more expensive than the servers themselves to replace, Raptis said. So, what do you do with that? Cyber insurance has long had a component that will cover lost data. Sometimes, though, that coverage triggers only if the data is breached or exfiltrated. It may or may not cover events like a flood or other physical damage. In other words, if operators and brokers arent paying close attention, data centers may have complete protection for their equipment but none for data. This is a real potential for a gap, Raptis said. For a data center to possibly lose all its data and be surprised that its insurance coverage doesnt cover that would be a real problem. So, until there are specific products, data center operators are going to have to sit down and read these policies thoroughly and understand where those gaps exist. And understand that one aspect of the operation may be covered, but another wont. Related: Data Centers, Overloaded Power Grids Keep Green Energy in the Spotlight When it comes to business interruption, data centersespecially those that host third-party servers or datacant afford to be inoperable for any amount of time, Koss said. The entire data center industry is completely dependent on always-available power. Losing power isnt just an inconvenience. Its an existential issue. Raptis said brokers involved in finding coverage for data centers may have leverage to negotiate some policies with insurance carriers. Because cyber and errors and omissions policies arent written on standard industry forms, centers may have sway when it comes to eliminating or narrowing exclusions, such as a power outage exclusionespecially when a larger premium is involved. The point is these policies are not necessarily something the insurance company sends you and youre stuck with, Raptis said. They may be, in a lot of material ways, negotiable. Based on the policies Raptis and Koss have reviewed, data center power outages in particular arent covered consistently from policy to policy or fully in any policy. Raptis said liability to third parties (often customers) arising from power outages sometimes is excluded altogether. But he explained that more commonly the exclusions apply to outages from power sources not within the insureds direct control (such as public utilities) and not to power failures arising from systems that are within the data centers direct controlsuch as its cooling or backup power generation systems. At the same time, as neighbors of data centers grow restless and oppose the noise and emissions the facilities produce, its only a matter of time before those general complaints become lawsuits, Raptis said. And how these general liability policies [are] going to respond to these nuisance-type lawsuits remains to be seen, he added. New Data Center-Specific Products Brian Hearst described the spike in spending on data center construction as an exponential, almost logarithmic growth. Hearst, managing director of construction for Aon, said three years ago, data center projects ranged between $250 million and $500 million. Today, they start at between $1.5 billion and $2 billion, he saidand his team has encountered some single projects that carried mid-$20 billion price tags. Aon recently launched a global data center life cycle program (DCLP) that aims to provide seamless coverage from construction through operational readiness under a single integrated facility, a press release said. Hearst explained that the velocity-focused program is one tool Aon has created as the professional services firm works to respond to clients who are building these massive projects that involve a lot of work getting cover lined up and agreed to ahead of time. Key features of the program include up to $1.5 billion for construction all risks (CAR), delay in start-up, operational property damage and business interruption coverages. The DCLP also covers construction cyber physical damage up to $400 million, including construction non-damage cyber, operational cyber and tech E&O. Third-party liability coverage of up to $100 million (excluding U.S. exposures) is offered, as is project cargo and transport insurance up to $500 million. By unifying traditionally fragmented coverage across multiple lines of business, DCLP enables clients to reduce friction in procurement, accelerate project timelines and enhance investor confidence, Aon said in a press release. The facility also integrates advanced risk engineering and cyber impact modelling to help clients anticipate, quantify, and respond to emerging threats across both physical and digital domains. Related: In Construction Sector, Data Centers Help Power Optimism Despite Uncertainty Over Economy Meanwhile, Lockton recently launched service letter agreement (SLA) insurance to the data center market. The coverageoffered through a partnership with Parametrixdelivers immediate financial compensation in the event of an SLA breach. That parametric coverage helps unlock capital, reduce operational risk, and strengthen financing terms for data center operators, developers, investors, and tenants, according to a Lockton press release. The SLA insurance aims to address the growing demand for financial protection against performance risk in digital infrastructure. It provides immediate payouts triggered by predefined violations of SLA terms. Lockton said in the release that developers secure more attractive financing terms by mitigating downtime risk through insured SLA guarantees and that operators unlock escrowed funds, reduce borrowing costs and enhance service reliability. As our data center clients seek more robust risk management solutions, this offering provides a level of protection not currently available in the insurance marketplace, said Trevor Smith, senior vice president and global technology risk practice managing director at Lockton. Through this facility, our clients benefit from access to Locktons top-tier data center risk experts, combined with Parametrixs comprehensive support to accurately assess risk and ensure fast, transparent claims payments. Topics Data Driven The Trump administration is set to announce its plans to abolish the US governments authority to regulate greenhouse gases, threatening to strike a deep blow at Washingtons ability to fight climate change. The Environmental Protection Agency will unveil a proposal in Indiana on Tuesday to scrap a landmark determination that planet-warming gases endanger public health and welfare, the agencys administrator, Lee Zeldin, said in a podcast. If finalized, the move would lay the foundation to unwind a host of regulations limiting emissions from power plants, oil wells and automobiles. Rolling back the 2009 endangerment finding would be among the most far-reaching steps yet by President Donald Trumps administration to gut US capacity to fight climate change. The finding forms the bedrock of the governments authority to impose limits on carbon dioxide, methane and other greenhouse gases. Ending it would be squarely at odds with the scientific consensus that those gases are causing climate change thats already leading to rising seas and more intense storms. How big is the endangerment finding? Well repealing it will be the largest deregulatory action in the history of America resulting in over a trillion dollars in savings, Zeldin said during an interview on the Ruthless Podcast that aired Tuesday. The EPAs proposal will also aim to end some automobile emission limits, according to a person familiar with the matter. Environmentalists have argued that any move to reverse the endangerment finding not only bucks scientific conclusions about the ways carbon dioxide, methane and other greenhouse gases interact with the worlds atmosphere, but also imperils the planet. Efforts to restrain emissions now are critical to restraining the worlds temperature rise and avoiding more tipping points where the consequences of climate change are magnified. The endangerment finding is based on decades of established, proven scientific evidence and has been repeatedly affirmed by courts, said National Wildlife Federation chief scientist Diane Pataki. Overturning this decision directly contradicts the EPAs mandate to protect public health and address the sources of greenhouse gas pollution that have caused the climate crisis. The Supreme Court effectively compelled the EPA to asses the impact of greenhouse gases in 2007 when it affirmed the agencys authority to regulate them as air pollutants under the Clean Air Act. At that point, it was up to the EPA to determine whether greenhouse gases constituted a threat that should be regulated. Critics have argued Congress designed the Clean Air Act to regulate localized pollutants, not those with widespread, global effects. Some have been pushing for repeal of the endangerment finding ever since. A policy blueprint drafted by conservative groups and Trump loyalists known as Project 2025 recommended addressing the endangerment finding. Energy businesses and some Trump allies are deeplydivided over the wisdom of efforts to wholly scrap the endangerment finding. Some are concerned the effort would siphon time and manpower from other regulatory priorities, including rewriting Biden-era rules governing power plant and vehicle pollution. The effort would require the EPA to go through the formal, time-consuming federal rulemaking process. Even if the measure is finalized by the end of the year, it might not survive inevitable legal challenges. Energy companies also have warned that doing away with the endangerment finding as well as the federal climate regulations it supports could revive public nuisance lawsuits against oil producers and power plant operators. Under a 2010 Supreme Court decision, federal climate regulation under the Clean Air Act has effectively precluded those claims. Photo: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin during a hearing in Washington in May. Photographer: Kent Nishimura/Bloomberg Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Topics USA Pollution UNICOI COUNTY, Tenn. (AP) In a rugged patch of the Appalachian Trail in eastern Tennessee, volunteers size up a massive, gnarled tree lying on its side. Its tangled web of roots and dark brown soil, known as a root ball, is roughly the size of a large kiddie pool. The collection of volunteers and staff from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and local organizations, doesnt plan to move the tree. Instead, their job is filling the gaping holes left by it and many other downed trees along iconic East Coast trail. Almost a year since Hurricane Helene tore through the mountains of the Southeast, restoration is still ongoing. In places like the Appalachian Trail its powered primarily by volunteers, at a time when federal resources are strained and uncertain. That labor, made up of people spanning several generations and continents, aims to not only return the trail to its former glory but make it more resilient against future inclement weather. Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Appalachian Trail, said Jake Stowe, a program support specialist with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. Stretching more than 2,000 miles (3,200 kilometers) miles from Georgia to Maine, the trail attracts more than 3 million people every year, according to the conservancy. Some committed hikers traverse its entire length to cross it off their bucket list. Others visit sporadically just to indulge in its scenic views. Last September, Helene killed more than 200 people and wrecked entire towns. Many rural businesses have struggled due to the drop in tourism, Stowe said, such as in places seeing fewer trail hikers. Directly after the storm, more than 430 miles (690 kilometers) of the trail were closed, the conservancy said. Thats down to 5 miles (8 kilometers) today. Hikers still have to take detours around two damaged sections of the trail, both in Tennessee, according to the conservancy. One spot where a bridge collapsed requires a 3.6-mile (5.8-kilometer) walking detour. The other location is near the destroyed Cherry Gap Shelter, where an Associated Press journalist accompanied volunteers this week making the area passable again for visitors who currently have to take a 6-mile (10 kilometer) detour. Fixing trails is hard work Local groups typically take on day-to-day trail maintenance, such as hacking back plant overgrowth, Stowe said. Larger organizations like the Appalachian Trail Conservancy step in to assist with severe damage, although in Helenes case, safety concerns delayed restoration. At the time, we werent really in the position to put people in the woods, Stowe said. It was such bad damage that it was just- you couldnt safely do that. The area near Cherry Gap has already been sawed out, meaning downed trees that blocked the trail have been cut and moved out of the way. But root balls are still a major problem because of how labor-intensive it is to deal with them. When a tree tips over, the root ball lifts a big chunk of earth with it. Filling that hole can sometimes take a week, said Matt Perrenod, a crew leader with the conservancy. The trail runs along the spine of the Appalachian Mountains, and that rough terrain means crews must rely on hand tools like shovels, rakes and pruners to do the job, rather than heavy equipment. The conservancy also has to consider more sustainable improvements to the trail, such as building steps or features like water bars, which are essentially little ditches that divert rainfall off the side of the trail. Its a slow process, Perrenod said, but a worthwhile venture to improve the experience of hikers. You dont actually want to think about the thing youre walking on very much. You just want to walk on it, said Perrenod, who hiked the Appalachian Trails entirety about a decade ago. Well, if we dont do the work, you wont be able to do that. Youll spend all your time climbing over this tree and walking around that hole. Volunteers travel the world to help out Partnering with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service has long been a critical component of preserving the Appalachian Trail. Through contracts, Perrenod said the agencies fund equipment, gas and the wages of some Appalachian Trail Conservancy staff members like himself. The Forest Service also helps the group lug their gear up to the trail, he said. Thats why Perrenod says its imperative the federal government does not slash those agencies budgets and workforces. Disrupting support for volunteers could be detrimental for the trails restoration, as volunteers provide a lot of muscle to complete the vast majority of its maintenance, he said. In Helenes aftermath, volunteerism across the region was super high because everyone wanted to help, Stowe said. This year, interest in volunteering has dipped, Stowe said, but hes heard from people all over the country and the world who cited Helene as a major reason they wanted to come out and help. Among the volunteers on the July maintenance trip were three visitors from Japan who work on long-distance trails back home. They were enthusiastic to learn about best practices for improving trail longevity and take those ideas back to Japan. The trio was also motivated by their own experience with natural devastation. After Japans massive 2011 earthquake and tsunami, volunteer Kumi Aizawa said people from across the globe came to rebuild. By restoring part of the Appalachian Trail, shes returning the favor. Photo: Volunteer Laura Elliot, left, looks on as Matt Perrenod, crew leader for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, digs a privy hole near the Cherry Gap Shelter along the Appalachian Trail during a trail rebuilding project, July 22, 2025, in Unicoi, Tenn. (AP Photo/Erik Verduzco) Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Hurricane MSD is slashing $3bn (2.59bn) from its annual spending as it braces for off-brand competition to its Irish-manufactured cancer drug Keytruda, the best-selling medicine in the world. The drugmaker will cut administrative, sales and research jobs, as well as reduce its real estate holdings around the world, the company said in a statement on Tuesday. The company expects the restructuring to be completed by the end of 2027, the year before Keytrudas key patents expire and the drug faces US government price cuts. The company said it plans to reinvest the savings into developing new drugs and launching new products. MSD shares were down 1.9% in premarket trading in New York. For now, MSDs cash cow is still propelling growth. Keytruda beat analysts sales estimates in the second quarter, growing by 9% year-over-year and helping the company outperform Wall Streets profit expectations. Quarterly revenue was in-line with analysts view, and MSD narrowed its full-year projections for sales and profit. The planned restructuring comes just days before US president Donald Trumps long-delayed tariffs on pharmaceutical imports are slated to start. Levies are expected to begin August 1 on drugs brought in from the European Union, with broad tariffs on the entire sector promised later in the month. MSD has already taken defensive action, stockpiling enough doses of Keytruda, which is primarily manufactured in Ireland, to protect itself from any tariffs imposed in 2025. It also previously disclosed plans to invest more than $9bn (7.78bn) in US manufacturing over the next four years, part of an effort to make more of its medicines domestically. The company reiterated that it expects to spend $200m (172m) on tariffs in 2025, a number that reflects levies already in place and doesnt account for future tariffs on pharmaceuticals. MSD has lost more than 30% of its value over the last 12 months amid mounting investor concern about its post-Keytruda future. The cancer medicine accounts for nearly half of the companys revenue and continues to grow, foreshadowing a multibillion-dollar hole in the company's business plan. Its also still dealing with the fallout over its second-biggest medicine, the HPV vaccine Gardasil. A dramatic decline in Chinese demand forced it to halt shipments to the country and rescind its previous forecast of $11bn (9.5bn) in annual sales of the shot by 2030. Gardasil sales fell 55% in the second quarter. Excluding China, sales declined 3%. The company has touted Winrevair, approved to treat a rare lung disease, as a blockbuster in the making and pointed to a pipeline of new medicines for cancer, cardiovascular disease and HIV. Sales of Winrevair outperformed analysts estimates in the second quarter, an encouraging sign for its ongoing launch. The companys animal health business beat expectations on the quarter, while its vaccine for measles, mumps and rubella fell short of projections. MSD's plan to ease Keytrudas inevitable decline rests in part on persuading patients and physicians to adopt an easier-to-use version of the drug, expected to win approval later this year. The revamped Keytruda, which is administered through a shot rather than an intravenous infusion, will eventually capture between 30% and 40% of the market for the original, MSD said. Bloomberg Jenna Ortega has praised the kindness of the Irish people and the beauty of the landscape after filming the second season of the Netflix hit Wednesday in the country. The 22-year-old American actress, who reprises her role as Wednesday Addams, the morbid, sharp-witted teenager with psychic powers, said she had never visited the island before working on the new season. The new season sees Wednesday return to the halls of Nevermore Academy, where fresh foes and woes await. Directed once again by Tim Burton, the latest instalment of the gothic hit welcomes a number of new cast members to the team including Joanna Lumley as Grandmama, Steve Buscemi as Barry Dort, the new principal of Nevermore, and Billie Piper as Isadora Capri, the schools new head of music. Director Tim Burton with Wednesday star Jenna Ortega (Ian West/PA) While the first season was filmed in Romania, the latest instalment of the popular series was shot in various locations around Wicklow, Dublin and Offaly. Id never been to Ireland and it was wonderful, said Ortega. My favourite thing was just how kind the people are, but also the countryside was really nice. I did my best to see as much of the island as I could while I was there. I went north, south, east, west, I went all over. Im pretty proud of myself. According to Tourism Ireland, some of the locations used to shoot the new series include Charleville Castle in Co Offaly, Deans Grange Cemetery in Co Dublin and Ashford Studios in Co Wicklow. Lumley, 79, said: I was pretty thrilled, because having filmed there a few times, in Ardmore studios, I didnt know there was a studio even further south of that, and then to come to Ashford Studios was marvellous. Theres something in Ireland which is slightly otherworldly and it embraced the whole feeling of Wednesday. Dame Joanna Lumley is joining the cast of Wednesday for its second season (James Manning/PA) Buscemi, 67, famous for his roles in Reservoir Dogs and The Sopranos, said he enjoyed the Guinness. I was surprised at how much Guinness I could actually drink every day, never while shooting, he joked. It was so lovely shooting there. The people are amazing. Ortega added: Everything about Ireland was so beautiful and we had such a hard-working crew, and people who really just gave it their all, and were so skilled. But the only real challenge we had was fighting the green. It was so green there and it was so bright for the show. Suddenly the Addams looked alive. Wednesday season two, which sees Welsh actress Catherine Zeta-Jones continuing to play Morticia Addams, comes out on Netflix on August 6 with a first part and a second part coming on September 3. Created by cartoonist Charles Addams, the macabre family have inspired a 1960s TV show, and 1990s films starring Anjelica Huston and Christina Ricci, who also appeared in Wednesday season one as a teacher. Fresh appeals have been made for witnesses to separate deaths of a man and a woman in West Belfast during the Troubles. The families of Teresa Carson and loyalist William Marchant are waiting for answers about the deaths of their loved ones. These appeals will involve distributing posters and organised leaflet drops in the areas relating to both investigations. Ms Carson, 47, was found dead at the side of the Glen Road in the early hours of Sunday, November 24, 1974. It is understood she had witnessed a robbery at St Johns GAC Social Club on Whiterock Road hours before. She was last seen in the grounds of the club at 12.15am getting into a white car. Mr Marchant, 39, who was also known as Billy or Frenchie, was shot outside the Progressive Unionist Party offices on Shankill Road at approximately 3pm on April 28, 1987, and later died in hospital. A brown Datsun Bluebird car, registration number YOI 2557, was used in the attack. It had been hijacked earlier in the day after a family was held at gunpoint overnight at Tullymore Gardens in West Belfast. The Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery has launched appeals for witnesses to come forward in relation to investigations into both deaths following requests from the victims families. Assistant commissioner Amanda Logan said their families asked the commission to help them find out what happened to their loved ones. We have always underlined the commissions unwavering commitment to helping families find the unvarnished truth and this is at the centre of our witness appeals, she said. The relatives of Teresa Carson and William Marchant believe that someone may hold vital information that could prove key to the investigations. These families have waited many years for answers and we at the commission are committed to doing everything we can to support them. If members of the public have any information about either of these cases, please come forward. She added: No matter how unimportant your information may seem, what you share could be vital to finding the truth for the families. All information we receive will be treated in the strictest confidence. The long-awaited diversion scheme for people caught in possession of drugs for personal use is expected to begin before November, the Irish Examiner understands. The health diversion scheme, announced as Government policy almost six years ago, will operate on an administrative basis by gardai under rules agreed with the Director of Public Prosecutions. The system will operate at the discretion of gardai, and people will be given one opportunity to avoid arrest and be diverted to a health intervention. The opportunity will not be available to members of An Garda Siochana or the Defence Forces. The original proposals, adopted as State policy in August 2019, said that people could get a second chance if caught with drugs for personal use, albeit at the discretion of gardai. Sources have told the Irish Examiner it is not clear if someone can get a second opportunity under the scheme being introduced. It is thought it may be possible, but will depend on the circumstances of the second incident and the view taken by gardai. The scheme will still apply to all drugs, as originally proposed. It is not yet clear what the thresholds will be for the amount of drugs a person can have for it to be considered as being for personal use. The incidents will be recorded by gardai, but they will not be included in vetting, it is understood. Justice minister Jim OCallaghan and the minister of state for the national drugs strategy, Jennifer Murnane OConnor, agreed that the programme will run under an administrative scheme. Picture: Conor O Mearain/Collins Plans to devise legislation for the scheme have failed to progress over the years, despite assurances from the Department of Justice. Because of concerns it could take several more years to get agreement on legislative changes, a decision was made to start the process, sources indicated. Both justice minister Jim OCallaghan and the minister of state for the national drugs strategy, Jennifer Murnane OConnor, have agreed that the programme will run under an administrative scheme. The scheme is to run for a year, at which stage its operation will be reviewed. The health diversion scheme has similarities to the existing adult caution scheme for certain minor offences, including possession of cannabis for personal use. The caution scheme is only supposed to be applied once, but may in the most exceptional circumstances be given a second time. Those exceptional circumstances include where the subsequent offence is minor or where there has been a substantial lapse of time since the first caution. It is understood that there was some concern about the health diversion scheme within sections of Garda HQ and that extensive discussions were held over the years to get a version of it accepted. An Garda Siochana has urged that any changes to either the law or its application must still give gardai a clear legal basis to search people for drugs. In September 2023, the chairman of the Citizens Assembly on Drug Use, Paul Reid, strongly criticised the Government for its slow pace in introducing the scheme. In its January 2024 report, the Citizens' Assembly recommended what it described as decriminalisation of possession of drugs in terms of the application of the law. The Government has to give its response to this recommendation once it receives a final report from the Oireachtas drugs committee. An Oireachtas drugs committee was set up by the last government and was given a seven-month period to send its final report. It published an interim report last October, before the election. However, its work, including the interim report, fell with the election. An Oireachtas drugs committee was set up, but it has not held any public sessions in the first term. A statement from the Oireachtas said: The committee met privately five times during the Dail term to plan and agree a work programme for its nine months of public meetings. It said the committee will start meeting publicly in September. WARNING: Some readers may find the following report upsetting A former garda who impersonated a colleague online and incited men to come to her home and rape her has been jailed for seven years. Shane Flanagan, aged 39, with an address in Co. Clare, impersonated the woman on a fetish website and on Facebook and engaged in graphic online discussions with users of these sites about sexual violence, rape, cannibalism, torture and physical violence. He also shared the woman's personal information including her address, photos of her and her daughters and screenshots from the Strava app, showing her running route. Flanagan pleaded guilty to two counts of inciting two men to rape the woman on dates between November and December 2020. He further pleaded guilty to six counts of endangering the woman and her daughters between 2018 and 2020, and to one count of possession of four images of child sexual abuse material, known in law as child pornography, on January 7, 2021. He has no previous convictions. Imposing sentence at the Central Criminal Court on Tuesday, Ms Justice Eileen Creedon said Flanagan's offending showed a breath-taking disregard for the safety of the injured parties and that he would have been more alive to these dangers due to his background as a garda. She imposed a sentence of eight years with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions for three years. Sentencing Imposing sentence at the Central Criminal Court on Tuesday, Ms Justice Eileen Creedon said Flanagan's offending showed a breath-taking disregard for the safety of the injured parties and that he would have been more alive to these dangers due to his background as a garda. She imposed a sentence of eight years with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions for three years. The judge said that extremely graphic and disturbing online conversations had been outlined to the court. She said the offending was an egregious breach of trust which betrayed years of friendship and placed the woman and her daughters in physical danger. Thankfully no acts of violence took place, she said. Ms Justice Creedon noted that the offending was not a short lapse of judgement, but occurred over a period of several years. She said the offending was cold, calculated and motivated by satisfying his own sexual interests and gratification. The judge set a headline sentence of 10 years in relation to the incitement of rape charges, then said the court had considered the mitigation including Flanagan's guilty pleas. She imposed concurrent sentences of six years on the endangerment charges and three years on the charge of possession of child sexual abuse material. Having imposed sentence, Ms Justice Creedon directed Flanagan to place himself under the supervision of the Probation Service following his release and she backdated the sentence to June 30 last, when he went into custody. Breffni Gordon BL, defending, told the court that his client has been quite distressed since the last hearing and was recently an inpatient at a psychiatric hospital. He asked the court to recommend his client receive appropriate psychiatric care, particularly during the initial phase of his sentence. Ms Justice Creedon agreed to make this recommendation. Victim impact statement The court was previously told that the woman wishes to retain her anonymity, but does not object to Flanagan being identified. Reading her victim impact statement at an earlier sentence hearing, the woman said Flanagan was a fellow garda who was supposed to uphold the same professional values. She said he was someone she had trusted and called a friend. She said he not only betrayed her, but took her career. She said Flanagan plotted to have her and her daughters attacked, and that he planned for men to find us and carry out unspeakable acts of violence. She said this was a betrayal beyond words, that she no longer feels safe in her own home and her trust in others has been damaged. She said no sentence could undo the harm caused and told the court this was not just a betrayal of friendship but a calculated predatory act of violence that has left lifelong scars for her and her daughters. Case background Detective Garda Paul English previously told Anne-Marie Lawlor SC, prosecuting, that the woman and Flanagan were friends and there had never been any romantic or sexual history between them. He said the woman was extremely shocked to find out that Flanagan was the one who had been impersonating her online. If you gave me a list of 500 names of people that could have done this to me, I would never have guessed it was him, the woman told the investigation. The court heard that the woman became aware that someone was using her image on a fetish website, Fetlife.com, after a user of that website contacted her on her genuine Facebook page in 2020. In December 2020, she created an account on Fetlife and, while pretending to be male, interacted with the user pretending to be her who shared her personal information. The woman then made a complaint to gardai. Evidence was heard of an extensive investigation, which connected the Fetlife account impersonating the woman to Flanagan. His home was searched on January 17, 2021, and items that included a phone and laptop were seized. Flanagan provided passwords for these devices and for an email address. The investigation found that Flanagan had created a false Facebook account in the name of 'Laura O'Riordan', using the injured party's information. Det. Sgt English told the court that hundreds of images of the woman, including 219 doctored ones were found as part of the search. Four images of child sexual abuse material were found on the laptop. Fetlife users Two of the users of Fetlife.com who interacted with Flanagan provided statements to gardai. Flanagan incited them to break into the woman's house and rape her. Both genuinely believed they were talking to a woman who had a fetish for 'CNC' or consensual non consent. These situations involve one party, typically female, agreeing for another party to carry out a rape at an agreed location. Ms Lawlor told the court these men believed they were speaking to the woman, who was agreeing to them individually coming to her home to rape her and which she had consented to in advance. Details of these sexually graphic conversations were read to the court. One of these men, who lives in the UK, told gardai that this person must really hate the victim to go to these lengths. In one message to this man, Flanagan pretending to be the woman said her fantasy was for someone to stalk her, break into her home while she was asleep or kidnap her while she was jogging. Flanagan shared the woman's address and other information with this user. Details of Flanagan's interactions with 12 other users of Fetlife.com, who could not be identified by gardai, were described to the court. These conversations included graphic descriptions of sexual violence, torture, rape and cannibalism. Flanagan, while pretending to be the woman, also asked some users if they were available that night. Some of these 12 users indicated they lived in Ireland, or in towns or cities near to the woman's address, the court heard. Flanagan replied: Oh cool, youre not living too far away, when one man said he lived nearby. Another user, who also indicated they lived near to the woman replied good, secure, abandoned buildings to have some fun in, when Flanagan referred to a particular town. Under the alias of 'Laura O'Riordan', Flanagan engaged in similar conversations using Facebook Messenger and shared photos of the woman and her daughters, her address and other personal information. One of the exchanges on Facebook outlined a roleplay scenario about the rape and torture of the woman and her daughters while another referred to spiking the children using sleeping tablets. Victim's daughters Det. Sgt English said the 'Laura O'Riordan' Facebook account came to light during the investigation. Gardai identified that Flanagan reported it to the social media site as a fake account following the search of his home, but Facebook refused to delete it. Ms Lawlor said the endangerment charges against Flanagan relate to the invitation to these individuals to carry out violence on the woman, which represented a significant risk to her life and those of her children. In a victim impact statement, the woman's older daughter said Flanagan had been a family friend for a long time and she now looks back on past events wondering if she missed any signs. She said she experienced a loss of trust in others and spoke of the impact of this going on in the background while attending school. She also spoke of experiencing nightmares and noted that her mother had tried to protect them from finding out what had happened for as long as possible. Shane Flanagan Flanagan was interviewed six times in February 2022. He made some admissions, including to owning the devices. He confirmed knowing the woman and when material was put to him replied everything youve shown me there, that was me. He apologised to the woman and admitted communicating with between 20 and 30 individuals while pretending to be the woman. He described it as harmless roleplay. Det. Sgt English agreed with Padraig Dwyer SC, defending, that his client retired from the gardai in March this year and had an unblemished record of service. Testimonials from family members, probation and psychological reports were handed to the court. Mr Dwyer read a letter of apology from his client to the court. Flanagan said he felt deep guilt, shame and understands now that I did not just cause fear, I destroyed a sense of fear, dignity and trust and stole the victims' peace of mind. He said this has been a sobering and painful experience for me and that he is seeking help to address his issues. Defence counsel asked the court to take into account his client's guilty pleas, the contents of the reports and that his time in custody will be more onerous as he was a garda. Flanagan was suspended from the force in 2021, retiring in March this year. Mr Dwyer noted the reports refer to his client suffering with suicidal ideation. His client is assessed at low to medium risk of re-offending. Counsel said a protective factor is the absence of hostility to women and his client's actions appeared rooted in imagination or fantasy, not reality, though in this case, the actions did translate into more than just a fantasy. Flanagan pleaded guilty to two counts of inciting two men to rape the woman on dates between November and December 2020. He also pleaded guilty to six counts of endangerment, in that he intentionally or recklessly engaged in impersonating the woman in Facebook communications, and on the website FetLife.com and in which communications invited persons unknown to visit violence upon her and two others, thereby creating a substantial risk of death or serious harm on dates between 2018 and 2020. Flanagan also pleaded guilty to one count of possession of four images of child sexual abuse material, known in law as child pornography, on January 7, 2021. - If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please click here for a list of support services. A director of the board of trustees behind the Co Tipperary Barne Estate, which is at the centre of High Court proceedings launched by bloodstock billionaire John Magnier over a failed 15m agreement, has told the court that 50,000 in brown envelopes offered by the Magnier side helped turn the trustees away from selling to him. Benjamin Newman, a director of the trustees who hold Barne Estate for chief beneficiaries and heirs Richard Thomson-Moore and his sister, Alexandra, told Paul Gallagher, counsel for the Magnier side, today that the offer of 50,000 in two brown envelopes each containing 25K offered to the Thomson-Moores in September 2023 raised a "red flag" for the trust and was seen by them as a "pure inducement". Mr Newman told the court that the trustees had, up to the point they were informed of the brown envelope offerings in October 2023, preferred Mr Magnier's bid over that of construction magnate Maurice Regan, who was bidding 5m more, to the "frustration" of the Thomson-Moores. Mr Magnier wants the court to enforce the deal he claims he sealed with Mr Thomson-Moore in a hand-shake agreement for the 751-acre farm in Tipperary on August 22, 2023, at Mr Magnier's Coolmore home. The Magnier side has sued the Barne Estate, Mr Thomson-Moore and three companies of IQEQ (Jersey) Ltd group the trustees seeking to enforce the purported deal, which they say had been "unequivocally" agreed. The Barne defendants say there was never any such agreement, as they needed the consent of the trustees to finalise any deal. They subsequently preferred to sell the estate to Mr Regan for 22.25 million. Mr Thomson-Moore has told the court that while a "price" was agreed with Mr Magnier for Barne, a "deal" was not. The Barne Estate in Clonmel, Co Tipperary. File picture The trustees who hold the estate initially decided to remain loyal to the Magnier offer and felt Mr Regan's higher offer could be seen as "provocative". After the exclusivity period had ended, the trustees decided to go with Mr Regan's offer. The court has heard that on September 7, 2023 two weeks after Mr Magnier claims he shook hands with Mr Thomson-Moore on the deal for the Barne Estate Mr Magnier called to Barne with his son, JP. The Thomson-Moores have told the court that estate agent John Stokes brought two brown envelopes given to him by JP containing a total of 50,000 in cash. The Magnier side have told the court that the money was a token of "appreciation" to the Thomson-Moores for letting the Magnier side onto the land before any sale was finalised. Mr Newman said he had since accepted that this was the reason for the money according to the evidence given by the Magnier side. Mr Thomson-Moore has told the court the delivery of the money caused him "shock" and he felt the offer of "envelopes stuffed with cash" was "untoward". The money was later returned by the Thomson-Moores. At the High Court today, Mr Newman said that in October 2023, two factors turned the trustees away from Mr Magnier towards Mr Regan. The first factor was the offer of cash to the Thomson-Moores, which Mr Newman said was viewed by the trustees as a "pure inducement" and that "significant" concerns were raised relating to "anti-corruption and bribery codes of practice" employed by the trust. The second factor, he said, concerned due diligence on Mr Regan's cash bid of 22.25m almost a 50% increase on the final Magnier bid of 16m plus a 500,000 trust for a child of Richard and Anna Thomson-Moore which could be considered only after the one-month period of exclusivity between the Thomson-Moores and the Magnier side had elapsed. The due diligence on Mr Regan's bid was to establish his "genuine, bona fide" interest in the purchase and to make sure it was not a "provocative" bid designed to frustrate any sale to the Magnier side, said Mr Newman. The Barne Estate in Clonmel, Co Tipperary. File picture Mr Newman said up until the exclusivity agreement expired the trustees were "absolutely very happy and keen" to stick with Mr Magnier and honour the agreement even though it was a smaller offer. He said the agreement on the price was "never presented to the trustees as a deal being done" as no-one present at the August 2023 meeting had the capacity to agree a "deal" without trustee approval. Me Newman said that after the expiry of the exclusivity agreement at the end of September 2023, the transaction became a "purely commercial" one and Mr Regan's higher bid won out. Mr Newman told Martin Hayden, for the Thomson-Moore side, that Mr Regan had loaned, with interest, Barne Estate Ltd the cost of defending the court action taken by Mr Magnier and had also put down a "non-refundable" deposit on the purchase of the land. Mr Newman said the 22.25m figure was a "life-changing one, a big number... way over what we had anticipated". The case continues before Mr Justice Max Barrett. A young woman who permanently lost her vision in one eye following an unprovoked attack has said it will always bother her that "the person who actually hit me is still out there and nobody gave him up." Alanna Quinn Idris made the comments after Jack Cummins, aged 22, the man who "procured the cowardly" attack on her was jailed for six years on Tuesday. Cummins, with an address at Rossmore Rd, Ballyfermot, pleaded guilty to procuring the commission of assault causing serious harm to Ms Quinn Idris on Ballyfermot Rd on December 30, 2021. He did so by phoning his cousin Josh Cummins, then aged 17, who arrived with two other assailants and attacked Ms Quinn Idris and her friend Louis O'Sullivan. Jack Cummins, aged 22, with an address at Rossmore Rd, Ballyfermot, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to procuring the commission of assault causing serious harm to Alanna Quinn Idris on Ballyfermot Rd on December 30, 2021. Picture: Collins Courts Ms Quinn Idris, who was then also aged 17, was struck in the face with the saddle of an electric scooter, which fractured her eye socket and left her permanently blind in her right eye. Her friend was also assaulted during the incident. Josh Cummins, who is now aged 20, of Raheen Drive, Ballyfermot, and Darragh Lyons, now aged 21, of Weir View, Glenaulin, Chapelizod, have already been sentenced for their roles in the attack on Ms Quinn Idris and Mr O'Sullivan. A fourth man, who hit Ms Quinn Idris with the e-scooter saddle, has never been identified. Alanna Quinn Idris speaking to media today, Tuesday, outside the Criminal Courts of Justice in Dublin. Picture: Collins Courts I dont know who he is, nobody I know does, but hes still walking around and as far as I know he is from my hometown of Ballyfermot, so that will always play on my mind, said Ms Idris. She said the sentence handed down to Jack Cummins in court on Tuesday was too lenient. He pleaded not guilty since 2021 to procuring the commission of assault cause me serious harm, and he only changed his plea recently she said. He put me through all of that since 2021, only to change his mind recently and then get seven years with one suspended. "I have to live the rest of my life with one eye." Ms Quinn Idris was struck in the face with a saddle of an electric scooter, which fractured her eye socket and left her permanently blind in her right eye. She has since had reconstructive surgery and a plastic eye. There is a lot that I have to go back over when I think about it, and it took four years to get through it. The three of them who attacked me, their cases are all finished now, but the main person is still out there. I am exhausted from it. "The first thing I did was just come home from court to my family and go to sleep. The State is not acting for me. I have no solicitor. I am only there because I have to be. 'Re-traumatised by lenient sentence' "Youre walking into court and having to deal with this again but the sentence for being involved in my eye being lost was six years in the end. It took four years for him to admit his guilt." Ms Quinn Idris said she will be affected for the rest of her life. "I just feel there was no reference to the fact Jack Cummins dragged this out for four years, and all he got was six years, it is not equivalent or doesnt come close to the injury I will have for the rest of my life. After all these years, he then changed his mind to plead guilty, I just feel like victims dont matter. "You can do that for so long, it wasnt a harsh sentence, but it is stressful for me, it almost retraumatises you". She said that the journey to finalise all three cases has been "nothing but painstaking. "But the fact the guy who hit me with the saddle is walking around will always be there on my mind. Its not resolved and will always be there", she said. Big projects are battling against too much regulation and are being delayed by up to five years due to judicial reviews, Cabinet is to be told. Public expenditure minister Jack Chambers will brief ministers on a report by his departments infrastructure division at the final Cabinet meeting before the summer break at Government Buildings. It is understood that this report will outline emerging themes and barriers that are delaying the delivery of infrastructure in Ireland following consultation and engagement. It comes just a week after the publication of the review of the National Development Plan. It is understood that the report will outline 12 key thematic issues delaying the delivery of infrastructure. These include the increased regulatory and legal burden for those developing key infrastructure, inconsistent planning decisions, limits on regulatory agencies ability to prioritise and consider wider societal aims, and limited public awareness of the consequences of poor infrastructure. The report is also expected to place a heavy emphasis on the impact that judicial reviews are having, as well as the growing threat of judicial reviews on infrastructure delivery. It is estimated that the planning and consenting process for critical infrastructure takes between three and five years longer due to the added threat, duration, and impact of judicial reviews. The report will also outline areas of international best practice that are being examined as potential solutions in Ireland. These include recent reforms such as the One Canadian Economy Act 2025, which provides for certain projects of national interest to be fast-tracked. The final report, together with an accompanying action plan, will be published in the autumn. Housing minister James Browne, meanwhile, will bring plans to Cabinet to increase housing supply targets for each local authority in the country. The number of units zoned for will increase from 33,000 to 83,000 per annum until 2034 under the new guidelines. It is understood that Mr Browne has indicated that he expects urgent and immediate action from all councils to respond to the housing crisis. Ministers are also expected to be updated on minister of State for planning John Cummins proposals to exempt certain developments from having to seek planning permission. A public consultation will go live today. Elsewhere, social protection minister Dara Calleary will tell ministers that pensions auto-enrolment is making "good progress" before its launch in January. It follows earlier delays to the project, which saw it pushed from January 2025 to September 2025 to January 2026. Energy minister Darragh O'Brien will bring a bill which will outline how ESB Networks should deal with unmanaged vegetation and commercial forestry close to electricity infrastructure. This was developed in the wake of Storm Eowyn. Beijing (Gasgoo) - On July 26, 2025, WeRide, a Chinese autonomous driving technology company, was granted a permit from the Shanghai municipal government to operate regulation-compliant, Level 4 (L4) autonomous Robotaxi ride-hailing services, according to the company's press release. Issued during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC 2025) in Shanghai, the permit enables WeRide, in partnership with Chery Group and Jinjiang Taxi, to deploy Robotaxis on public roads in Pudong New Area. This milestone also marks the WeRide Robotaxi's official entry into its tenth city globally. WeRide, Chery Group, and Jinjiang Taxi jointly launch Robotaxi shuttle service at WAIC 2025; photo credit: WeRide As part of WAIC's Level 4 Intelligent Vehicle Experience Showcase, the three partners jointly launched the event's only fully mass-produced, pre-installed L4 Robotaxi shuttle service. The service connects key Shanghai transport hubs and cultural-tourism landmarks, including the Shanghai World Expo Center, Jinqiao, Huamu, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Shanghai Disney Resort. Residents, tourists, and conference attendees are able to book rides through the "Jinjiang Smart Mobility" WeChat mini-program. WeRide and Chery Group have joined forces to develop a new generation of mass-produced Robotaxis. Chery's premium new energy vehicle brand, EXEED, is advancing rapidly in smart, connected, and electric mobility, with significant progress in EV platform architecture. Together, they unveiled their jointly developed Robotaxi model the CER at the Auto Shanghai 2025. The CER is built on WeRide's universal autonomous driving platform, WeRide One, and EXEED's STERRA ET vehicle architecture. At the WAIC 2025, WeRide and Chery showcased the CER in active operation. Equipped with WeRide's High-Performance Computing platform and Sensor Suite 5.6, the CER features over 20 sensors including cost-efficient LiDARs, HD cameras, and RTK-precision navigation modules and incorporates five layers of redundant safety systems (steering, braking, parking, communication, and power supply redundancy). The CER's spacious interior and extended range on the EXEED STERRA ET platform enable it to support long-distance, all-scenario, high-frequency driverless shuttle services. Founded in 2017, WeRide has launched Robotaxi testing or operations across nine cities in three countries, including Beijing, Guangzhou, Nanjing, Suzhou, Ordos, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Riyadh, and Zurich, accumulating over 2,000 days of safe operation. The approval of the permit in Shanghai marks WeRide's entry into its tenth city globally, showcasing the companys robust autonomous driving technology and efficient global deployment capabilities. What has happened to the Israeli people?. Bob Geldof last week made an impassioned plea to Miriam O'Callaghan on RTEs Primetime for Israelis to snap out of it and to rise up against their government. In the context of the daily horrific images from Gaza and more than 20 months of onslaught on the Palestinian civilian population, Geldof asks an important and, I would argue, very profound question: What has happened to the Israeli people?. But here is a startling fact. In no other country in the world over the past two and a half years have there been larger and more consistent political demonstrations against the current far-right Israeli messianic government than in Israel itself. Within weeks of assuming power, hundreds of thousands of Israelis began protesting weekly against the anti-human rights agenda of their government. The coalition of five right-wing, religious, and Jewish supremacist parties that make up the government received a minority of the popular vote (48.4%) in the election that brought them to power. Political parties to the left admittedly a broad spectrum from centre-right to progressive left won more than 50% of the vote in that fateful election. Sometimes the vagaries of the electoral system tip victory to the loser. Those demonstrations have at times reached more than a quarter of a million on a single Saturday night in Tel Aviv alone. Since the October 7 Hamas terror attack, and despite an inevitable rallying around the flag effect, tens of thousands of Israelis opposed to Netanyahu have continued to take to the streets. Demonstrations only ceased when rockets rained down from Hamas at the start of the war, and more recently, over the 12-day war with incoming ballistic missiles from Iran. Yet despite two years of weekly protests and plunging political popularity, this government remains in power. Most Israelis feel exhausted. Most feel powerless. If families of the remaining hostages have been unable to pressure their government to prioritise Israeli lives, the lives of their children held in underground tunnels for two years, does Geldof think that they can pressurise the government to consider the fate of Palestinian children? Mainstream, secular, and centrist Israelis feel under assault. First, they came under attack from their government, then came the trauma of October 7 and the murder of over 1,200 Israelis by Hamas in a short few hours. Within 48 hours of those terror attacks, anti-Israeli demonstrations had erupted around the world, and then came months of rocket attacks, including cruise missiles from Iran. Despite the war, or perhaps because of it, the government continues to assault its civil liberties by advancing authoritarian legislation. In addition, the exponential growth of global anti-Semitism is undeniable. A protest outside the US embassy demanding the end of the war and immediate release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip, and against prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government in Tel Aviv earlier this month. Picture: AP/Maya Alleruzzo Most Israelis are vehemently opposed to their messianic revolutionary government. They are revolted by the images of marauding settlers on the West Bank, and also sickened by the words of many far-right ministers that ricochet around the world in minutes. Some of those same far-right ministers have mocked and belittled the families of hostages. Today, 70% want the war to stop, irrespective of so-called concessions to Hamas. International revulsion at the dystopian images coming from Gaza is understandable. With that, revulsion has come an undeniable visceral hatred of all Israelis. I think hate is not too strong a word. Visceral hatred of Israelis is now not just politically acceptable; it is widely socially championed and lets be clear, we are talking about Israeli Jews. One in five Israeli citizens is a Palestinian or an Israeli Arab. The dehumanisation of all Palestinians by too many Israelis is now arguably matched by the demonisation of Israeli Jews by non-Israelis. There is a similar groupthink, and an othering that lumps all Israelis together. This demonisation can have, has had, chilling outcomes. Geldof says Israelis are subject to heavily censored news. There is, however, no government censorship of the news in Israel, at least not in the general understanding of the word. The mainstream commercial TV news channels indeed refuse to show what the rest of the world sees nightly. Ironically, it is the public service broadcaster, Kan, which recently shows the most graphic footage. News editors have told me Kans two commercial rivals are more concerned about a TV ratings war than revealing the truth of the war in Gaza. In fact, many journalists of the left-leaning Haaretz newspaper, the Israeli paper of record, are fearless in their criticism and condemnation of both the government and the war on Gaza. Some of the most powerful investigative journalism exposing Israel's war crimes in Gaza has come from Israeli Haaretz investigative journalists. This includes a recent damning revelation of a shoot-to-kill policy of Israeli soldiers at food distribution points in Gaza. Haaretz is on sale in every town and city in Israel. Perhaps the very fact Haaretz is readily available makes the seeming indifference of too many Israelis more inexcusable. Geldof argues there are no excuses for the seeming Israeli difference to genocide 70km from Tel Aviv. He is right, there arent. I have written many times in this newspaper about the moral failures of Israeli society, particularly its universities, trade unions, and television media stars, to speak out more loudly about the undeniable Israeli war crimes. There is, of course, no context to acts of genocide. There is, however, a context to the simple assertion that Israelis snap out of it and rise up against their government. If the fate of governments were determined by the scale and duration of street power alone, this unpopular far-right regime would have long since been consigned to the dustbin of political history by Israelis themselves. And perhaps, just perhaps, tens of thousands of dead Palestinians would be alive today. Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara has said he will seek a fourth term leading the West African nation, which is due to hold elections in October. His candidacy is contested after he changed the constitution to remove the presidential term limit. The 83-year-old president declared his plan in a televised announcement. He won a third term in 2020 after he initially said he was not going to run again. However, he changed his position following the death of his hand-picked successor, Prime Minister Amadou Gon Coulibaly. Women and young people from all regions of Cote dIvoire, and countless anonymous voices from our neighbourhoods, towns and villages have reached out For several months, I have received numerous calls from fellow citizens regarding my potential candidacy in the presidential election, the president said. Referring to the country by its name in French, he went on: Women and young people from all regions of Cote dIvoire, and countless anonymous voices from our neighbourhoods, towns and villages have reached out. In response to those appeals, I announced on June 22 that, as president of all Ivorians, I would, after careful reflection, make a decision guided solely by the best interest of the nation. His most prominent rival, Tidjane Thiam, has already been barred from running by a court on the grounds that he was still a French citizen at the time he declared his candidacy, even though he later renounced his French nationality. Ivorian law bans dual nationals from running for president. Elections in Ivory Coast have usually been fraught with tension and violence. When Mr Ouattara announced his third term bid, several people were killed in the ensuing violence. There have been protests against the courts decision to bar Mr Thiam from contesting the election. Mr Ouattara is the latest among a growing number of leaders in West Africa who remain in power by changing the constitutional term limit. Coup leaders in the region have used alleged corruption within democratic governments and electoral changes as a pretext to seize power, leading to a split in the regional bloc, Ecowas. For those critical of Ecowas and civilian governments, Ouattaras decision just reinforces the legitimacy crisis everyone in the region is facing. It makes people like Ouattara look like hypocrites, Nat Powell, Africa analyst at Oxford Analytica, told the Associated Press. Mr Ouattaras candidacy drew strong criticism from opposition members. Alassane Ouattara does not want to leave power like any self-respecting dictator, Guillaume Soro, a former prime minister who was blocked from running in the election, said. Affi Nguessan, a candidate of the opposition Ivorian Popular Front, called Mr Ouattaras candidacy illegal but said he is confident that a united opposition will defeat him at the polls. The UK will recognise the state of Palestine in September unless Israel takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, British prime minister Keir Starmer has said. Earlier, Mr Starmer recalled his government from their summer recess to discuss the situation. Ghislaine Maxwell, the imprisoned former girlfriend of disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, is open to answering questions from the US congress but only if she is granted immunity from future prosecution for her testimony, her lawyers said Tuesday. A spokeswoman for the committee that wants to interview her responded with a terse statement saying it would not consider offering her immunity. Maxwells lawyers also asked that they be provided with any questions in advance and that any interview with her be scheduled after her petition to the US Supreme Court to take up her case has been resolved. David Oscar Markus, a lawyer for Ghislaine Maxwell, talks with the media outside the federal courthouse in Tallahassee, (Colin Hackley/AP) The conditions were laid out in a letter sent by Maxwells attorneys to representative James Comer, the Republican chairman of the House Oversight Committee who last week issued a subpoena for her deposition at the Florida prison where she is serving a 20-year-prison sentence on a conviction of conspiring with Epstein to sexually abuse underage girls. The request to interview her is part of a frenzied, renewed interest in the Epstein saga following the Justice Departments July statement that it would not be releasing any additional records from the investigation, an abrupt announcement that stunned online sleuths, conspiracy theorists and elements of US President Donald Trumps base who had been hoping to find proof of a government coverup. Since then, the Trump administration has sought to present itself as promoting transparency, with the department urging courts to unseal grand jury transcripts from the sex-trafficking investigation and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche interviewing Maxwell over the course of two days at a Florida courthouse last week. In a letter on Tuesday, Maxwells lawyers said that though their initial instinct was for Maxwell to invoke her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, they are open to having her co-operate provided that legislators satisfy their request for immunity and other conditions. But the Oversight Committee seemed to reject that offer outright. The Oversight Committee will respond to Ms Maxwells attorney soon, but it will not consider granting congressional immunity for her testimony, a spokesperson said. Separately, Maxwells lawyers have urged the Supreme Court to review her conviction, saying she did not receive a fair trial. They also say that one way she would give evidence openly and honestly, in public, is in the event of a pardon by Mr Trump, who has told reporters that such a move is within his rights but that he has not been not asked to make it. She welcomes the opportunity to share the truth and to dispel the many misconceptions and misstatements that have plagued this case from the beginning, he said. Music mogul Sean Diddy Combs is asking a judge to free him on a 50 million dollar bond while he awaits sentencing in October after a jury found him not guilty of the most serious federal charges he faced earlier this month. In a court filing on Tuesday, Combss lawyer argued that conditions at the Metropolitan Detention Centre in Brooklyn are dangerous, noting that others convicted of similar prostitution-related offences were typically released before sentencing. Sean Combs should not be in jail for this conduct, Marc Agnifilo said. In fact, he may be the only person currently in a United States jail for being any sort of john, and certainly the only person in jail for hiring adult male escorts for him and his girlfriend. A spokesperson for the US attorneys office in Manhattan did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Prosecutors have previously insisted he remains a flight risk. Combs, 55, faces up to a decade in prison on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution for flying people around the country, including his girlfriends and male sex workers, for sexual encounters. A conviction on racketeering conspiracy or sex trafficking could have put one of hip-hops celebrated figures in prison for life. Immediately after he was acquitted on July 2, Mr Agnifilo had asked that Combs be released on bond. But Judge Arun Subramanian denied it, saying Combs at the time had not met the burden of showing by clear and convincing evidence a lack of danger to any person or the community. Combs is the latest celebrity inmate to be locked up at MDC Brooklyn, the only federal jail in New York City, joining a list that includes R Kelly, Ghislaine Maxwell and cryptocurrency fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried. All-out rescue efforts underway as rainstorms leave 30 dead in Beijing Xinhua) 14:47, July 29, 2025 This photo taken on July 27, 2025 shows the river course in Xizhuangzi Village of Fengjiayu Town, Miyun District of Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong) BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- All-out disaster relief and rescue operations are underway in Beijing as the latest round of intense rainstorms have left 30 people dead in the Chinese capital as of midnight Monday, damaging roads, disrupting power supply and prompting mass evacuation. The deaths occurred in Beijing's northern mountainous districts, with 28 in Miyun and two in Yanqing, according to local authorities. On Monday, Chinese President Xi Jinping made an important instruction regarding flood control and disaster relief work, urging all-out efforts to ensure the safety of people's lives and property in the fight against rain-triggered floods and geological disasters affecting some parts of China. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, said all-out search and rescue must be conducted for those missing or trapped, and residents in flood-threatened areas must be promptly relocated and resettled to minimize casualties. Across Beijing alone, more than 80,000 people have been relocated, while the rainstorms damaged 31 road sections and disrupted the power supply in 136 villages. Firefighters talk to villagers on their way towards Huangyukou Village, where communication networks are disrupted, in Xiwanzi Village of Shicheng Town, Miyun District of Beijing, capital of China, July 27, 2025. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong) "Heavy rain started to hit on Saturday night, flooding some homes in the town," said Cui Di, deputy chief of Shicheng Township in the hardest-hit Miyun. Cui worked tirelessly to assist with relocating residents to safer areas. "During emergencies like this, it's tough for everyone. We do our best to make the shelter as comfortable as possible to ease their anxiety," Cui said. Cui noted that local authorities have also prepared essential supplies, including mattresses, blankets, bread and eggs, for the displaced residents. In a resettlement center in Miyun, fourth-grade student Zhao Zixuan is sitting on the bed reading a book. He was brought out of a flooded village by speedboat. "It is very safe here, and I can read with peace of mind," Zhao said. People rest at a temporary shelter at a primary school in Shicheng Town of Miyun District, Beijing, capital of China, July 27, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhang Chenlin) In recent days, extreme and severe convective weather, brought by warm, moist air from the edge of the subtropical high, has occurred in Miyun and other areas of Beijing. Torrential rains have also hit regions near Beijing. At 8 p.m. Monday, the Beijing municipal flood control headquarters activated the highest level of its citywide flood-control emergency response mechanism. Authorities have warned the public to stay away from sections of the fast-flowing river. Due to continuous heavy rainfall, railway authorities on Tuesday temporarily suspended some trains on the Beijing-Harbin high-speed railway. Members of the Chinese People's Armed Police Force clean up silt on a road in Miyun District, Beijing, capital of China, July 27, 2025. (Photo by Wang Xiqing/Xinhua) China's Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Emergency Management on Tuesday allocated 350 million yuan (about 48.94 million U.S. dollars) in central government disaster relief funds to nine provincial-level regions, including Beijing, which were affected by floods. The funds will prioritize emergency rescue operations and disaster relief for affected residents in these regions. Also on Tuesday, China's National Development and Reform Commission said that it had allocated 200 million yuan to assist disaster relief efforts in Beijing. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On July 25, the Yujian 77, China's first all-electric maritime tourism passenger ship, which was powered by a marine battery system developed by Chinese battery manufacturer CATL, set sail in the Xiamen Bay, according to a press release issued by CATL via its WeChat account. This milestone not only offers tourists a zero-emission, low-noise, and high-quality marine tourism experience, but also demonstrates the feasibility of all-electric technology for use in coastal waters. Photo credit: CATL The CATL's marine battery system equipped by the Yujian 77, incorporates innovative CTP (cell to pack) technology and an integrated CCS (Combined Charging System, a high-voltage charging system) design. This advanced configuration has enabled the battery pack to achieve an energy density surpassing 140Wh/kg. In addition, the battery system provides the Yujian 77 with a total battery storage capacity of 3,918kWh, offering a battery-powered range of 100km, enough to support four consecutive night cruises in the Xiamen Bay. Safety features include NP (which means "no thermal propagation") technology, ensuring that thermal runaway at the cell level is contained. The system also meets IP68 standards for water and dust protection, and has undergone a rigorous 1,296-hour salt fog test, ensuring stable operation under challenging maritime conditions. Following its launch, the Yujian 77 is expected to reduce annual fuel consumption by nearly 250 tonnes and cut carbon dioxide emissions by over 400 tonnes, equivalent to the carbon offset of planting more than 20,000 trees, according to the press release. The Yujian 77 is the first dometic all-electric maritime tourism passenger ship to be classified by the China Classification Society (CCS), while the CATL's marine battery system used by the ship has also earned certifications from major global classification societies, including Bureau Veritas (BV), American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), and Det Norske Veritas (DNV). Going forward, CATL said it plans to continue its technological innovations, developing even safer, longer-lasting, and higher-energy-density marine battery systems, with the aim of further accelerating the transition to a zero-carbon future for maritime transport. Beijing (Gasgoo)On July 25, Chinese new energy vehicle brand AITO officially opened pre-orders for the BEV (battery electric vehicle) version of its M8 SUV, marketed as a "smart flagship SUV for families." The pre-sale price starts at 378,000 yuan, with official market launch scheduled for August. Early buyers are eligible for limited-time benefits, including a 5,000 yuan deposit that counts as 10,000 yuan toward the final payment and a complimentary Night Purple exterior package worth 8,000 yuan. Photo credit: AITO Measuring 5,190 mm in length, 1,999 mm in width, and 1,795 mm in height, with a 3,105 mm wheelbase, the full-size SUV M8 offers a panoramic cabin with a highly flexible interior layout. A new power-operated front trunk adds convenience for everyday use. The vehicle is equipped with Huawei's full-stack ADS 4 advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS), featuring integrated cruising and parking functions that deliver a human-like driving experience. It includes Huawei's 192-line LiDAR, one high-precision rear-facing solid-state LiDAR, and five 4D millimeter-wave radars to support active safety, advanced driving assistance, and automated parking features. Photo credit: AITO Built on the upgraded Tuling platform, the AITO M8 benefits from a well-rounded chassis designed to deliver both a smooth ride and agile handling. All variants of the battery electric M8 come standard with a 100kWh CATL battery pack supported by Huawei's 800V "Giant Whale" high-voltage platform. It offers a maximum CLTC-rated range of 705 km and enables high-speed charging to replenish significant range in a short time. Safety-wise, the M8 boasts a robust body structure enhanced with more than 30 sensors for all-round collision prevention. Its 15-layer battery protection system ensures comprehensive safety for occupants. In terms of styling, the all-electric M8 introduces a new Night Purple exterior, paired with a Black Obsidian styling package. Black accents have been added to the lower grille, roof rails, window trim, and body cladding, while smoked wheels are paired with red brake calipers for a sportier look. The interior is newly available in a Truffle Brown color scheme, offering additional customization options. The vehicle's powertrain choices include both single- and dual-motor configurations. The single-motor version delivers up to 227 kW, while the dual-motor setup provides a combined output of 387 kW. Both variants feature Huawei's high-voltage integrated seven-in-one electric drive system. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On July 25, AVATR, the premium new energy vehicle (NEV) brand under Changan Automobile, launched its AVATR 11 SUV in Singapore at an event held at Capella Singapore. The model went on sale with a starting price of S$278,999 (approximately 1.56 million yuan). The launch also featured the Singapore debut of the AVATR 012, a limited-edition, co-designed model, with only 700 units available globally. Photo credit: AVATR According to Mr. Shen Xinghua, General Manager of Changan Automobile's Southeast Asia Division, the AVATR 11 will serve as the spearhead for the brand's entry into the Singapore market. "We will continue to bring a broader range of products to Singapore to meet the diverse and multi-scenario needs of local users," Mr. Shen said. He emphasized that AVATR will leverage its local distribution partner, Premium Group, to offer a differentiated premium mobility experience. Premium Group has extensive experience in the sales and operation of high-end vehicles in Singapore. AVATR's first experience store in Singapore is scheduled to open on August 1 at UOB Plaza. Its first brand showroomdeveloped in collaboration with British audio brand Meridian Audiois expected to open in the third quarter of 2025. Designed by AVATR's chief designer Nader, the AVATR 11 boasts a futuristic interior featuring a triple-screen cockpit, zero-gravity seats, Meridian audio system, and a full suite of premium finishes, including NAPPA leather, a panoramic sunroof, and a 256-color ambient lighting system. Performance-wise, the AVATR 11 features a single-motor rear-wheel drive setup delivering 230 kW of maximum power. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and supports 800V fast charging, enabling a 30% to 80% charge in just 15 to 25 minutes. The AVATR 012, also unveiled at the event, is the brand's second model in the "0" series. Co-designed by Nader and renowned fashion designer Kim Jones, the model blends avant-garde aesthetics with intelligent automotive technology. The Singapore launch of the AVATR 11 marks the brand's first official entry into the local market and builds on its earlier expansion into Thailand. It also follows the brand's move into Hong Kong's right-hand-drive (RHD) market, further solidifying its strategic footprint in the RHD segment. Since launching its global strategy in 2024, AVATR has been accelerating its push into four major international regions: ASEAN, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. By 2025, the company aims to enter 50 countries and regions, with plans to begin its European expansion in 2026. Over the next three years, AVATR expects to establish nearly 3,000 physical and digital sales and service touchpoints across five continents. ( RFE/ RL ) Worsening Water Crisis: Iran is experiencing a deepening water crisis that has forced authorities to impose widespread water cuts, with dam reservoirs across the country dropping to their lowest levels in decades. Drought, mismanagement, and mounting climate challenges are causing major disruptions to daily life for millions . . . Is Tehran Becoming Uninhabitable? Over 40 cities across Iran, including Tehran, are facing routine water rationing and prolonged supply interruptions. In some areas, households and businesses endure hours-long daily outages as officials scramble to take emergency measures. The roots of the crisis lie in a mix of prolonged drought and drastically reduced rainfall, soaring temperatures, excessive extraction from aquifers, and years of inefficient management especially in agriculture. While urgent water transfer projects and aggressive conservation campaigns have been launched, the scale of the problem is nationwide, affecting both urban centers and rural communities. President Masud Pezeshkian has acknowledged the scale of mismanagement that contributed to the crisis, arguing that basic changes are now critical to the nations future. Hes also referenced the worsening water crisis to again broach the subject of moving the countrys capital, saying the continued survival of Tehran as the capital is no longer possible. Why It Matters: Iran has entered its fifth consecutive year of drought, with rainfall in several provinces, including Sistan-Baluchistan, Hormozgan, Bushehr and Khuzestan, dropping by more than 50 percent. The prolonged dry spell has severely strained water supplies, with the latest reports indicating that reservoirs feeding Tehrans dams are now at just 14 percent of their total capacity. Pezeshkians government last year floated an ambitious idea: relocating the nations capital to the Makran coast on the shores of the Sea of Oman. He even appointed his campaign chief, Ali Abdolalizadeh, as a special envoy for maritime economy development. However, following widespread criticism, the plan has been quietly shelved. Analysts warn that the Makran region itself remains underdeveloped, with large areas still lacking even basic water pipelines. Whats Being Said: Azam Bahrami, a water and environmental expert based in the Netherlands, says agricultural practices need to change in Iran as part of broader reforms to ensure efficient water use. File photo of Tehran by Arman Taherian on Unsplash She told RFE/RLs Radio Farda that agriculture accounts for up to 90 percent of Irans water use. Water officials say nearly half of Irans provinces are now officially water-stressed and that current supplies simply dont match demand. Expert Opinion: The decisive factor is the ruling establishment, because it is the authorities who invest, introduce new technologies, monitor progress, and strengthen society to help it endure climate change and long-term drought, Bahrami told Radio Farda. Welcome back to the Farda Briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter that tracks the key issues in Iran and explains why they matter. Im RFE/RL correspondent Kian Sharifi. In this edition, Im looking at the worsening water crisis in Iran and its implications. Thats all from me for now. Until next time, Kian Sharifi Copyright (c)2025 RFE/RL, Inc. Used with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty Via RFE/ RL After-Tax NPV (5%) of US$1.1 Billion with an After-Tax IRR of 27.8% at $2,500/oz After-Tax NPV (5%) of US$2.2 Billion with an After-Tax IRR of 44.7% at $3,300/oz DENVER / Jul 29, 2025 / Business Wire / Vista Gold Corp. (NYSE American and TSX: VGZ) is pleased to announce positive results of a 15,000 tonnes per day (tpd) feasibility study (the Study or the 2025 FS) for its Mt Todd gold project (Mt Todd or the Project). The Study provides a favorable development alternative to Vistas previous feasibility study completed in 2024 at 50,000 tpd (the 2024 FS). All currency values are reported in U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted. Frederick H. Earnest, President and CEO commented, This Study marks a significant shift in the strategy for Mt Todd, demonstrating the potential for near-term development of a smaller initial project by prioritizing higher grade ore to the processing plant, significantly lowering initial capital costs, and incorporating methods to reduce development and operational risks. FEASIBILITY STUDY HIGHLIGHTS Strong and Stable Gold Production from Well-Defined Deposit Average annual gold production of 153,000 ounces during years 1-15 and 146,000 over the 30-year life of mine Average ore grade of 1.04 grams gold per tonne (g Au/t) over the first 15 years of operations and 0.97 g Au/t over the life of mine Life of mine average gold recovery of 88.5% from 3-stage crush, single-stage sort, 2-stage grind, and carbon-in-leach (CIL) recovery circuit Contract mining and third-party power generation reduce capital costs and operational risks Future expansion opportunities not evaluated in the Study, but considered in designs and layouts Robust Economics After-tax NPV 5% of $1.1 billion, IRR of 27.8% and 2.7 year payback at a $2,500 per ounce gold price of $1.1 billion, IRR of 27.8% and 2.7 year payback at a $2,500 per ounce gold price After-tax NPV 5% of $2.2 billion, IRR of 44.7% and 1.7 year payback at spot gold price ($3,300 per ounce) of $2.2 billion, IRR of 44.7% and 1.7 year payback at spot gold price ($3,300 per ounce) After-tax free cash flow at a $2,500 gold price of $1.6 billion for first 15 years of commercial operations Initial capital requirements of $425 million, a 59% reduction from the 2024 FS Capital Efficiency: $93 per ounce (initial capital : total ounces of gold produced) Benefit to Cost Ratio of 2.5 (NPV 5% : initial capital) All-in Sustaining Cost of $1,449 per oz years 1-15 and $1,499 per oz years 1-30 Mr. Earnest concluded, The results of the Study demonstrate a very attractive development alternative for Mt Todd. It positions Mt Todd as a project with technical and economic parameters that are comparable to several highly valued Australian gold producers. We continue to focus on advancing Mt Todd in ways that demonstrate the underlying value of the Project and position it for near-term development. Technical Consultants with Proven Track Records for Australian and International Projects GR Engineering Services (GRES) (Perth, Australia) process area designs, major infrastructure, processing capital and operating cost estimates, project economic analysis, and feasibility study author Mining Plus (Perth, Australia) Mineral Reserves estimate, mine plans and schedules Tetra Tech (Lakewood, Colorado) Mineral Resources estimate, water management, closure, permitting, environmental, and community studies Tierra Group International, Ltd. (Lakewood, Colorado) tailings management and designs, waste rock dump geotechnical services, and waste rock dump construction plan WSP (Perth, Australia) pit geotechnical services Early contractor engagement to obtain contract mining cost estimates under confidentiality Third-party power generation pricing was provided under confidentiality from industry-leading provider Each of GRES, Mining Plus, Tetra Tech, Tierra Group International, Ltd., and WSP are independent of Vista. Approach to 2025 FS The 2025 FS prioritizes an initial project scale designed to significantly reduce initial capital costs, development risk, and operating risks. Vista leveraged GRES extensive experience in designing and building similarly sized gold projects in Western Australia to achieve these objectives. Additionally, the Study prioritizes grade over tonnes. The cut-off grade was raised from 0.35 g Au/t to 0.50 g Au/t resulting in average plant feed grade of 1.04 g Au/t in years 1-15 and 0.97 g Au/t over the life of mine. The metallurgical recovery is dependent to a small degree on mill feed grades. We expect gold recoveries to range from 87-89% resulting in average annual gold production of approximately 153,000 ounces (years 1-15) and 146,000 ounces (life of mine). The 2025 FS contemplates contract mining and third-party power generation using experienced Australian contractors, contributing to capital cost savings and reducing operational risks. Staffing assumptions have also been adjusted to provide the Project with a highly experienced operating team with a balance of fly-in-fly-out and community-based employees. This Study does not evaluate future expansions, but the designs and layouts have allowed for this opportunity. Production The Batman deposit has a large, higher grade central core. The Study concentrates on mining that core at a higher cut-off grade. Ore stockpiles will be used to prioritize higher grade ore to the processing plant in early years. Material below the cut-off grade with economic potential (0.35-0.50 g Au/t) is not included in Mineral Reserves but will be segregated in the waste rock dump for possible future processing. Processing will include primary gyratory, secondary cone, and third stage high pressure grinding roll crushing followed by single-stage x-ray transmission sorting and two stages of grinding (ball mill and vertical mill) to produce a final product with an 80% passing size of 40 microns. This final product of the comminution circuit will be leached in a conventional CIL circuit followed by adsorption on activated carbon, stripping, electrowinning and smelting to produce dore bars. Tailings will be deposited in one of two tailings storage facilities (TSF). The existing tailings storage facility (TSF 1) has an approved expansion capacity for approximately 90 million tonnes. Construction of the second facility is expected to commence in year 19. The Study contemplates concurrent reclamation of the waste rock dump and tailings storage facilities. A water treatment facility is planned as part of the water management plan, with installation to take place during the initial project development phase. Key production metrics are summarized in the following table. Years 1-15 Life of Mine1 Design Throughput (ROM feed)2 Mtpa 5.3 5.3 Gold Grade (ROM feed)2 g Au/t 1.04 0.97 Gold Recovery (ROM feed)2 % 88.6 88.5 Average Annual Gold Production koz 153 146 Total Gold Production koz 2,298 4,368 Mining Cut-off Grade g Au/t 0.50 0.50 Inter-ramp Pit slopes (variable around the pit) degrees 45-55 45-52 Ore and Waste Bench Heights m 12 m 12 m Stripping Ratio (W:O) 4.15 3.98 Concurrent Reclamation Yes Yes Bond Work Index of Ore kWh/t 25.7 25.7 Post-sorting Mill Feed Bond Work Index kWh/t 24.4 24.4 Primary Crusher Product (80% Passing size) mm 120 120 Secondary Circuit Product (80% Passing size) mm 32 32 HPGR Circuit Product (80% Passing size) mm 3.25 3.25 Ball Mill Circuit Product (80% Passing size) m 250 250 Regrind Circuit Product/Leach Circuit Feed (80% Passing size) m 40 40 Cyanide Detoxification Yes Yes Tailings Deposition Location TSF 1 TSFs 1 & 2 Settled Tailings Density t/m3 1.5 1.5 1 Life of Mine comprises years 1-30. 2 ROM means run of mine. Capital Costs Capital costs have been developed from first principles with quotes for all major equipment components. A turnkey engineering, procurement and construction model has been used as the basis for project construction. The 2025 FS contemplates a 27-month period for engineering, construction and commissioning. Contract mining at an average rate of 32 Mtpa (ore and waste) and a third-party gas-fired generating plant capable of producing 64 MW are included in the Study. Capital costs include a permanent camp facility near the mine site with housing, dining, and recreation facilities for approximately 90% of the initial workforce. The majority of sustaining capital is related to increasing tailings storage capacity in TSF 1 and the construction of TSF 2 starting in year 19. The closure plan includes re-processing 13 million tonnes of heap leach material from previous operations and then placing that material in the TSF. This is expected to generate approximately $88 million of pre-tax cash operating margin and has been treated as self-funding reclamation, even though the heap leach pad material is included in Mineral Reserves. Summaries of capital costs are shown in the following tables. Capital Costs Summary Pre-Production Years 1-30 Heap Leach, Reclamation and Closure Initial Capital1 $M $425 - - Sustaining Capital1 $M - $256 $10 Reclamation and Closure Costs1,2 $M - $121 $56 Total Capital $M $425 $376 $66 Less: Pretax Self-Funding Reclamation and Closure $M - - $(88) Total Capital After Self-Funding Reclamation $M $425 $376 $(22) Note: Components may not add to totals due to rounding. 1 Includes contingency and growth factors. 2 Includes concurrent closure of waste rock dump, TSF 1, and TSF 2 during the life of the Project. Capital Expenditures1 Initial Capital ($M) Sustaining Capital ($M) Mining $22 $33 Process Plant $154 $49 Project Infrastructure $91 $167 Site Establishment and Facilities $40 $9 Management, Engineering, EPC Services $70 $9 Preproduction Costs and Capital Spares $48 - Reclamation2 - $122 Sub-total: Capital Expenditures (years 1-33) $425 $388 Closure (years 34-43) - $54 Total Capital Costs $425 $442 Capital Efficiency (Total Capital Costs : total ounces of gold produced) $93 $97 Note: Components may not add to totals due to rounding. Contingency included in above line items. 1 Includes contingency and growth factors. 2 Includes concurrent closure of waste rock dump, TSF 1, and TSF 2 during the life of the project. Operating Costs Mining costs have been provided by a well-established Australian contract miner. Power costs are based on a proposal from one of Australias leading mine site contract power generators. The Study uses a fixed natural gas price of A$8.50 per gigajoule. The Northern Territory is host to extensive natural gas reserves and it is expected that there will be a steady and competitively priced source of natural gas throughout the life of the project. Vista has not yet negotiated a gas supply contract as it is not in a position at this time to execute a take or pay contract. Processing and administrative costs have been developed from first principles with major consumable supply component quotes and competitive Australian labor rates. The operating costs contemplate that approximately 90% of the initial workforce will be contracted on a fly-in-fly-out basis and be housed in a 250-bed permanent camp facility near the mine site. Years 1-15 Life of Mine1 Mining Costs $/t mined $3.00 $3.30 Mining Costs $/t processed $18.49 $16.55 Processing Costs2 $/t processed $17.70 $17.62 Administrative Costs $/t processed $2.09 $2.09 Jawoyn Royalty $/t processed $2.22 $2.08 Wheaton Royalty $/t processed $0.84 $0.73 Refining $/t processed $0.15 $0.14 Total: Cash Costs $/t processed $41.49 $39.20 All-In-Sustaining Costs (AISC) $/oz $1,449 $1,499 1 Life of Mine comprises years 1-30. 2 Inclusive of water management costs of approximately $0.78/t processed. Sensitivity Analysis Mt Todd has strong leverage to the gold price, as shown in the following table. Gold Price $2,100 $2,500 $2,900 $3,300 Spot Gold Base Case After-tax NPV 5% ($M) $524 $1,060 $1,610 $2,159 After-tax IRR (%) 18.1 27.8 36.6 44.7 After-tax Payback (years) 3.6 2.7 2.1 1.7 Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Estimates The tables below present the estimated Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, prepared in accordance with Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgical and Petroleum (CIM) definition standards. The effective dates of the Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves estimates are July 25, 2025. The Batman Deposit estimates include Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves for the South Cross Lode. Mt Todd Gold Project Mineral Resources 0.40 g Au/t cut-off at $1,950 per gold ounce BATMAN DEPOSIT HEAP LEACH PAD QUIGLEYS DEPOSIT TOTAL Tonnes (000) Grade (g Au/t) Contained Gold (000) Tonnes (000) Grade (g Au/t) Contained Gold (000) Tonnes (000) Grade (g Au/t) Contained Gold (000) Tonnes (000) Grade (g Au/t) Contained Gold (000) Measured (M) 124,502 0.82 3,301 3,702 1.13 134 128,204 0.83 3,435 Indicated (I) 191,907 0.84 5,156 13,352 0.54 232 6,965 1.34 299 212,224 0.83 5,687 Measured & Indicated 316,409 0.83 8,457 13,352 0.54 232 10,667 1.26 433 340,428 0.83 9,122 Inferred (F) 54,338 0.78 1,369 2,761 0.71 63 57,099 0.78 1,433 Notes: Measured & Indicated Resources include Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves. Batman and Quigleys Resources are quoted at a 0.40 g Au/t cut-off grade. Heap Leach resources are the average grade of the heap, no cut-off applied. Batman: Resources constrained within a $1,950/oz gold pit shell. Pit parameters: Mining Cost $3.00/tonne, Milling Cost $17.50/tonne processed, G&A Cost $1.50/tonne processed, Au Recovery metallurgical equation averaging 89.7%. Quigleys: Resources constrained within a $1,950/oz gold pit shell. Pit parameters: Mining Cost $3.00/tonne, Milling Cost $17.50/tonne processed, G&A Cost $1.50/tonne processed, Au Recovery metallurgical equation averaging 89.7%. Differences in the table due to rounding are not considered material. Differences between Batman and Quigleys mining and metallurgical parameters are due to their individual geologic and engineering characteristics. Kira Johnson, MMSA, of Tetra Tech is the QP (as defined below) responsible for the Statement of Mineral Resources for the Batman, Quigleys deposits and Heap Leach pad. The effective date of the Heap Leach, Batman and Quigleys Resource estimate is July 25, 2025. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves have no demonstrated economic viability and do not meet all relevant modifying factors. The Mineral Resources were estimated using the CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Reserves. Mt Todd Gold Project Mineral Reserves 0.50 g Au/t cut-off at $1,800 per gold ounce BATMAN DEPOSIT HEAP LEACH PAD TOTAL Tonnes (000) Grade (g Au/t) Contained Gold (000) Tonnes (000) Grade (g Au/t) Contained Gold (000) Tonnes (000) Grade (g Au/t) Contained Gold (000) Proven (P) 77,359 0.95 2,371 77,359 0.95 2,371 Probable (P) 81,263 0.99 2,588 13,352 0.54 232 94,615 0.93 2,820 Proven & Probable 158,623 0.97 4,959 13,352 0.54 232 171,975 0.94 5,190 Notes: The Mineral Reserves point of reference is the point where material is fed into the processing plant. Batman deposit Mineral Reserves are reported using a 0.50 g Au/t cut-off grade and $1,800/oz gold price. Colin McVie, FAusIMM and Peter Lock, FAusIMM of Mining Plus are the QP's responsible for the Statement of Mineral Reserves for Batman Deposit Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves. Because all the heap-leach pad reserves are to be fed through the mill, these mineral reserves are reported without a cut-off grade applied. Deepak Malhotra SME registered member, is the QP responsible for reporting the heap-leach pad Mineral Reserves. The effective date of the Batman and Heap Leach Mineral Reserves estimate is July 25, 2025. Differences in the table due to rounding are not considered material. The Mineral Reserves were estimated using the CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Reserves. Feasibility Study Comparison The following table highlights key differences between the 2025 FS (15,000 tpd) and the 2024 FS (50,000 tpd) projects. 2025 FS 2024 FS Change Nameplate Capacity (tpd) 15,000 50,000 -70% Mine Operator Contractor Owner Mine Life (years) 30 16 87.5% Average Run of Mine Grade (g Au/t) 0.97 0.79 22.8% Mine Cut-off grade (g Au/t) 0.50 0.35 42.9% Total Gold Produced1 (Moz) 4.55 6.31 -27.9% Initial Capital Cost ($M) $425 $1,030 -58.7% AISC ($/oz) $1,499 $1,034 45.0% Capital Efficiency (per oz) $93 $163 -42.9% Benefit to Cost Ratio 2.5 1.1 127% 1 Includes self-funded reclamation gold ounces. The design of the Mt Todd project at 15,000 tpd presents distinct advantages with regards to initial capex, average grade and stable production over a long mine life. The design in this Study provides optionality to expand the Project as deemed appropriate and realize benefits from part of the economies of scale demonstrated in the 2024 FS for a 50,000 tpd operation. Next Steps We continue to focus on advancing Mt Todd in ways that demonstrate the underlying value of the Project and position it for near-term development. This 2025 FS demonstrates a very competitive development alternative for Mt Todd. We anticipate this smaller scale project may be attractive to many existing producers and gold investors and could be financed on attractive terms in the current market. We plan to continue to raise broad awareness of the project and seek to identify the best pathway for value realization for Vista Shareholders. To further complement the results of the Study, Vista and its consultants have identified opportunities for material project improvements that can be accomplished in relatively short periods of time with modest work programs prior to detailed engineering and design, including: Fine-Grinding Optimization Additional grinding studies may result in grind-size and equipment selection changes that result in improved economics and lower initial capex. Geotech Drilling & Pit Slope Refinement The pit Geotech recommendations for the Study resulted in a flatter west pit slope when compared with previous studies. Additional geotechnical data for the west pit slope area is expected to result in an improved Pit Geotech recommendation for this area of the Batman pit leading to a reduction in the amount of waste to be mined on the west side of the pit. Desktop Studies of Expansion Alternatives evaluations to consider opportunities to increase throughput and optimal timing for an operation expansion. Operating and environmental permits necessary to commence construction for the 50,000 tpd Project are in place and are currently being amended to conform with the 2025 FS. Various additional minor permits (e.g. explosives use, construction, septic/sanitation and camp operation) are required in the ordinary course as project development moves forward. The NT enacted legislation in 2024 that establishes new mining licensing and requires that current mining management plans be converted to the new licensing by mid-2028. Some modifications of permits are also likely to be required to reflect the smaller-scale project contemplated in the 2025 FS. We anticipate these permit modifications could be completed and approved in 12-18 months. Data Verification The Geology and Mineral Resources Qualified Person (QP) of Tetra Tech performed data verification and validation procedures on the drilling database prior to resource modelling and estimation. The QP reviewed the geological, drilling and analytical data, including the implemented Quality Assurance / Quality Control ("QA/QC") measures, used to support Mineral Resources. Additionally, the QP completed a visit to the Mt Todd project site and to the Northern Australian Laboratory (NAL) in order to review overall site geology, drill core, core shack facilities, sample storage and security, as well as to conduct interviews with key site personnel. It is the opinion of the Geology and Mineral Resources QP and the Companys QP that the geological database is of sufficient quality for use in the estimation and classification of Mineral Resources, according to CIM guidelines and industry best practices. Qualified Persons Geology and Mineral Resources QP: Kira L. Johnson, MMSA of TetraTech. Batman Deposit Mineral Reserves QPs: Colin McVie, FAusIMM and Peter Lock, FAusIMM of Mining Plus. Heap Leach Pad Mineral Reserves QP: Deepak Malhotra, SME registered member and independent consultant. The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Maria Vallejo, P.Eng., FAusIMM, Vistas Director of Projects and Technical Services, a QP as defined by Item 1300 of Regulation S-K under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Canadian National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects,. The Company adheres to CIM Best Practices Guidelines in conducting, documenting, and reporting activities on the Mt Todd project. Management Conference Call and Webcast A conference call and webcast to review the feasibility study results is scheduled for July 30, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. MDT (12:00 p.m. EDT). Participant Toll Free: +1 (800) 431-2204 Participant International: +1 (289) 514-5015 Conference ID: 74367 To participate in the webcast and view the slide presentation, click here at least 5 minutes prior to the start time: The webcast will be archived and available on the Companys website at www.vistagold.com. An audio replay will also be available through August 13, 2025 by calling toll-free in North America +1 (888) 660-6264 or +1 (289) 819-1325 using passcode 74367. Detailed Report A technical report for the 2025 FS prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 disclosure standards will be filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and a technical report summary prepared in accordance with S-K 1300 will be filed on EDGAR www.sec.gov within 45 days of the date hereof and will be available on the Companys website at that time. For more information regarding Vistas exploration results, please refer to the Companys previous 2024 and 2025 drilling news releases, including those dated January 13, 2025 and February 4, 2025, available under the Companys profile on www.sedarplus.ca. About Vista Gold Corp. Vista holds the Mt Todd gold project, a leading development-stage gold deposit located in the Tier-1 mining jurisdiction of Northern Territory, Australia. The project offers significant scale, development optionality, growth opportunities, advanced local infrastructure, community support, and demonstrated economic feasibility. For further information about Vista or Mt Todd, please contact Pamela Solly, Vice President of Investor Relations, at (720) 981-1185 or visit the Companys website at www.vistagold.com. Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this news release that address activities, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements and forward-looking information include, but are not limited to statements regarding such things as the Company confirms strong economics for the Mt Todd gold project with re-sized 15,000 tonnes per day feasibility study; the Company anticipates permit modifications could be completed and approved in 12-18 months; the Companys belief that the results of the 2025 FS are positive; the Companys belief that the Study marks a significant shift in the strategy for Mt Todd, demonstrating the potential for near-term development of a smaller initial project by prioritizing higher ore grade to the processing plant, significantly lowering initial capital costs, and incorporating contractors to reduce development risks; the 2025 FS demonstrates strong and stable gold production with a well-defined deposit; the Companys belief that the Study provides a favorable development alternative to Vistas previous facility study completed in 2024; the Companys belief that the Study demonstrates an attractive development alternative for Mt Todd; the Companys belief that the Study positions Mt Todd as a project with technical and economic parameters that are comparable to several highly valued Australian gold producers; the Company is focused on advancing Mt Todd in ways that demonstrate the underlying value of the Project and position it for near-term development; it is expected that there will be a steady and competitively priced source of natural gas throughout the life of the Project; Mt Todd has strong leverage to the gold price; the Company anticipates the smaller scale project may be attractive to many existing producers and gold investors and could be financed on attractive terms in the current market; the Companys plan to continue to raise broad awareness of the project and seek to identify the best pathway for value realization for Vista Shareholders; the Study positions the Project as one of the most promising opportunities within the gold sector; the Company is a leading development-stage gold deposit in the Tier-1 mining jurisdiction of Northern Territory, Australia; the Project offers significant scale, development optionality, growth opportunities, advanced local infrastructure, community support, and demonstrated economic feasibility; the Companys plans and estimates with respect to development and production at the Project; the Companys expectation that there will be a steady and competitively priced source of natural gas through the life of the Project; and statements related to the Companys strategy are forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The material factors and assumptions used to develop the forward-looking statements and forward-looking information contained in this news release include the following: the Companys forecasts and expected cash flows; the Companys projected capital and operating costs; the Companys expectations regarding mining and metallurgical recoveries; mine life and production rates; that laws or regulations impacting mine development or mining activities will remain consistent; the Companys approved business plans, mineral resource and reserve estimates and results of preliminary economic assessments; preliminary feasibility studies and feasibility studies on the Companys projects, if any; the Companys experience with regulators; political and social support of the mining industry in Australia; the Companys experience and knowledge of the Australian mining industry and the Companys expectations of economic conditions and the price of gold. When used in this news release, the words optimistic, potential, indicate, expect, intend, hopes, believe, may, will, if, anticipate and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include, among others, uncertainty of resource and reserve estimates, uncertainty as to the Companys future operating costs and ability to raise capital; risks relating to cost increases for capital and operating costs; risks of shortages and fluctuating costs of equipment or supplies; risks relating to fluctuations in the price of gold; the inherently hazardous nature of mining-related activities; potential effects on the Companys operations of environmental regulations in the countries in which it operates; risks due to legal proceedings; risks relating to political and economic instability in certain countries in which it operates; uncertainty as to the results of bulk metallurgical test work; and uncertainty as to completion of critical milestones for Mt Todd; as well as those factors discussed under the headings Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factors in the Companys latest Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed in February 2025, and other documents filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and Canadian securities regulatory authorities. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements and forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Note Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures In this press release, we have provided certain non-U.S. GAAP prospective financial performance measures. Because the non-U.S. GAAP performance measures do not have standardized meanings prescribed by U.S. GAAP, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. These measures should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for measures of performance prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. There are limitations associated with the use of such non-U.S. GAAP measures. Since these measures do not incorporate revenues, changes in working capital and certain other non-operating costs, they are not necessarily indicative of potential operating profit or loss, or cash flow from operations as determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The non-U.S. GAAP measures associated with Cash Costs and AISC, and the resulting per tonne and per ounce metrics are not, and are not intended to be, presentations in accordance with U.S. GAAP. These metrics represent costs and unit-cost measures related to the Mt Todd. We believe that these metrics help investors understand the economics of the Mt Todd. We present the non-U.S. GAAP financial measures for our Mt Todd in the tables below. Actual U.S. GAAP results may vary from the amounts disclosed in this news release. Other companies may calculate these measures differently. Cash Costs, AISC and Respective Unit Cost Measures Cash Costs and related unit cost measures are non-U.S. GAAP metrics used by the Company to measure costs of operations that will generally be within the Companys direct control. We believe these metrics reflect the operating performance potential for Mt Todd inclusive of mining costs, processing costs, administrative costs, refining costs, and contractual royalty obligations. Payments subject to legislative change, including those payable under the Northern Territory Mineral Royalties Act 2024 and income taxes to the Commonwealth of Australia, are beyond the Companys direct control and have not been included in these metrics. Cash Costs and AISC are non-U.S. GAAP metrics developed as guidelines by the World Gold Council to provide transparency into the costs associated with producing gold and improve comparability among gold producers. The Company reports Cash Costs and AISC on a per ounce and/or per tonne basis because we believe these metrics more completely reflect costs over specified periods and the life of mine. The Company reports Capital Efficiency and the Benefit to Cost Ratio because these metrics provide a standard measurement of capital efficiency. Similar metrics are widely used in the gold mining industry as comparative benchmarks of performance. Cash Costs consist of Mt Todd operating costs, refining costs, and the Jawoyn Association royalty and Wheaton Royalty. The sum of these costs is divided by the corresponding ounces of gold production or tonnes processed to determine Cash Cost per ounce or per tonne processed metrics, respectively. AISC consists of Cash Costs (as described above), plus sustaining capital costs, reclamation, and closure costs. The sum of these costs is divided by the corresponding ounces of gold production for the applicable period to determine the per ounce metric. Other costs excluded from Cash Costs and AISC include depreciation and amortization, government royalties, income taxes, financing charges, costs related to business combinations, asset acquisitions other than sustaining capital, and asset dispositions. The following tables demonstrate the calculation of Cash Costs and AISC, and related unit-cost metrics for amounts presented in this press release. Years 1-15 Life of Mine1 Gold Production koz 2,298 4,368 Tonnes mined kt 477,714 790,115 Tonnes processed kt 77,512 157,445 Mining Costs $M $ 1,433 $ 2,606 Processing Costs $M 1,372 2,774 Administrative Costs $M 162 328 Jawoyn Royalty $M 172 328 Wheaton Royalty $M 65 115 Refining Cost $M 11 22 Cash Costs $M $ 3,216 $ 6,172 Sustaining Capital, Reclamation, and Closure $M 114 376 AISC $M $ 3,330 $ 6,548 Cash Cost per ounce $/oz $ 1,399 $ 1,413 AISC per ounce $/oz $ 1,449 $ 1,499 Mining Costs per tonne mined $/t $ 3.00 $ 3.30 Per Tonne Processed: Mining Cost per tonne processed $/t $ 18.49 $ 16.55 Processing Cost per tonne processed $/t 17.70 17.62 Administrative Costs per tonne processed $/t 2.09 2.09 Jawoyn Royalty per tonne processed $/t 2.22 2.08 Wheaton Royalty per tonne processed $/t 0.84 0.73 Refining Cost per tonne processed $/t 0.15 0.14 Cash Cost per tonne processed $/t $ 41.49 $ 39.20 1 Life of Mine comprises years 1-30. Capital Efficiency is calculated as total capital costs (initial or sustaining) divided by total ounces of gold produced. Initial Capital Sustaining Capital Total Capital Costs US$M $ 425 $ 442 Gold Production koz $ 4,554 $ 4,554 Capital Efficiency $/oz $ 93 $ 97 The Benefit to Cost Ratio is calculated as after-tax NPV 5% divided by total initial capital costs. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Phenom Resources Corp. (TSXV: PHNM) (OTCQX: PHNMF) (FSE: 1PY0) ("Phenom" or the "Company") is pleased to report for the first time gold assays from chip sampling of mineralized bedrock within the +2.1 kilometres long (1.3 miles) and 200 meters (660 feet) wide gold soil anomaly on its Dobbin Gold Project. While diligently advancing the permitting process for the first phase drill program, the company felt compelled to conduct field work to locally expose bedrock and initially characterize grade and continuity for parts of the mineralized system, given the robust nature of the anomaly. Thus, in late June, the company hand-dug seven shallow trenches which successfully exposed bedrock and delivered characteristic gold grades and continuity of a Carlin gold system. Management is pleased to report that a great deal of data was obtained. Assay results are available from three of the seven trenches. Key takeaways are: 1) Consistently strong gold values with local high-grade intervals, typical of a Carlin gold system 2) Consistently strong gold values averaging 0.545g/t Au (0.02 opt) across 16 metres from one trench 3) Two consecutive high-grade samples of 10.35 g/t Au (0.37 opt) and 2.11 g/t Au (0.07 opt), each 2 metres long from a second trench 4) Consistently strong gold values averaging 0.274 g/t Au (0.01 opt) across 24 metres from the third trench 5) Very thin soil cover over bedrock, typically only 0.5 - 0.75 metres (1.5 - 2.5 feet) thick "This is the first glimpse into the character of mineralization (potential consistency and grade tenor) associated with the large gold soil anomaly with very encouraging results even with this small sampling of a large system," states Dave Mathewson, director and Geological Consultant to the Company. Because the large soil anomaly is defined by samples taken on 25 metre spacing, the trench sampling provides a considerable elevation in confidence, relying on a series of continuous 2-metre-long individual bedrock chip samples below soil cover. The seven initial hand-dug trenches ranged in length from 13 metres to 26 metres and were oriented perpendicular to the trend of the soil anomaly and centered over selected elevated gold soil sample sites with the objective of reproducing gold values in bedrock and determining the degree of grade continuity between soil sample sites. The seven trenches are well distributed along a 550-metre length of the gold soil anomaly. The three trenches reported here are spaced along a 150-metre length of the anomaly. Individual chip sample lengths of 2-metres consistently returned anomalous gold values from sample to sample along the trenches. Paul Cowley, President, CEO and director of the Company states, "While I genuinely appreciate our loyal shareholders patience while awaiting permitting to drill, the hand trenching is our best efforts in the meantime to gain hard data on the system and the results have been very informative. Further hand trenching is expected now we know the soil cover is so thin and gold values are appreciable." Table of Trench Highlights Trench ID Length (m) Length (ft) Averaged grade (g/t Au) Lowest Individual Sample (g/t Au) Highest Individual Sample (g/t Au) DTR-05 2.0 6.56 10.35 DTR-05 2.0 6.56 2.11 DTR-06 16.0 59.06 0.545 0.448 0.628 DTR-07 24.0 78.74 0.274 0.208 0.443 There are several noteworthy details with respect to these results. The NW end of trench DTR-05 ended with the two high-grade gold samples (4m @ 6.34 g/t) and the last sample at the SE end returned 2m of 0.412 g/t Au. Between these samples was a 20m section of 0.07 g/t Au. Both ends of both trenches DTR-06 and DTR-07 ended in mineralization ranging from 0.208 to 0.598 g/t Au. Results for the remaining four hand-dug trenches will be reported once available. The Company plans to extend the lengths of the first three trenches. About Phenom Resources Corp. Phenom has 100% interest in the Carlin Gold-Vanadium Project, located in Elko County, 6 miles south from the town of Carlin, Nevada and Highway I-80 which hosts the Carlin Vanadium deposit, North America's largest highest grade primary vanadium resource. The Project lies within the prolific Carlin Gold Trend. Approximately 9 million ounces comprised of multiple gold deposits, including past producing mines, are present near the Phenom property (5-15km). The Company has options on three additional gold projects in Nevada: the King Solomon and Dobbin Properties which are Carlin Gold-type targets and the Crescent Valley Property, a Bonanza-type high grade gold vein target. ON BEHALF OF PHENOM RESOURCES CORP. Technical disclosure in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Paul Cowley, a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, director, President and CEO to the Company. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking information Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking" statements. These statements relate to future events or the Company's future performance. All such statements involve substantial known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results to vary from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, they should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and they will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions on the date of this news release, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Guanajuato Silver Company Ltd. (the "Company" or "GSilver") (TSXV:GSVR) (OTCQX:GSVRF) is pleased to announce that it is expanding its senior management team with the addition of Rick Trotman as Senior Vice President. James Anderson, CEO & Chairman, said, "Rick's addition to our team immediately bolsters our technical, financial, and corporate capabilities; he has extensive experience in analyzing all aspects of both exploration and mining operations from planning to asset evaluation to resource development and operational troubleshooting. His addition should immediately prove helpful to Guanajuato Silver as we strive to unlock the full potential of our operating assets in Mexico and start planning for our next wave of growth. This is an important addition to the Guanajuato Silver team, and I look forward to working closely with Rick as we continue to transition the Company into an important producer of both silver and gold." Mr. Trotman is a professional geologist who has built a remarkable 20-year mining career focused on technical excellence and identifying high-value resource opportunities. Rick brings a complete complement of experience and expertise to Guanajuato Silver; he is fully knowledgeable in all facets of the mining industry, from field exploration to the corporate boardroom, to managing various levels of governmental interaction to robust stakeholder engagement. Mr. Trotman started his career as a geologist with Barrick Gold, Meridian Gold, and Yamana Gold at various exploration projects and operational mines within the United States and northern Mexico. He then moved to the financial sector in 2010 working as a mining associate and analyst for banks in NYC, where he covered the full range of mining companies from explorers to major North American gold producers. From 2012 to 2017, Mr. Trotman worked at Resource Capital Funds (RCF), a mining-focused private equity firm where he reviewed thousands of potential investment opportunities across the globe. While at RCF, he was responsible for identifying opportunities, managing all aspects of the due diligence process, negotiating and executing investments totaling over $300 million, and managing those investments until their divestment. Most recently, Mr. Trotman was President and CEO of Barksdale Resources, where he successfully navigated a challenging permitting process that allowed him to develop a world class polymetallic exploration target in southern Arizona. He holds a Master of Science in Economic Geology from the University of Nevada, and a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Washington State University. On behalf of the US State Department, Mr. Trotman provides courses on project valuation and economic geology to various governments across the globe that are looking to enhance their mining industries. Stock Option Grant The Company will grant a total of 2,200,000 stock options to officers and employees of the Company. The stock options will have an exercise price of C$0.32 and will expire on July 29, 2030. The options will vest in accordance with the Company's stock option plan and are subject to the acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange. About Guanajuato Silver GSilver is a precious metals producer engaged in reactivating past producing silver and gold mines in central Mexico. The Company produces silver and gold concentrates from the El Cubo Mine, Valenciana Mines Complex, and the San Ignacio mine; all three mines are located within the state of Guanajuato, which has an established 480-year mining history. Additionally, the Company produces silver, gold, lead, and zinc concentrates from the Topia mine in northwestern Durango. With four operating mines and three processing facilities, Guanajuato Silver is one of the fastest growing silver producers in Mexico. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS "James Anderson" Chairman and CEO For further information regarding Guanajuato Silver Company Ltd., please contact: JJ Jennex, Gerente de Comunicaciones, T: 604 723 1433 E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. GSilver.com Guanajuato Silver Bullion Store Please visit our Bullion Store, where Guanajuato Silver coins and bars can be purchased. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and information, which relate to future events or future performance including, but not limited to, GSilver's growth, improved financial flexibility, opportunities to grow the Company's business through potential acquisitions at a time of increasing interest in precious metals and GSilver's status as one of the fastest growing silver mining company in Mexico. Such forward-looking statements and information reflect management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to and assumptions made by the Company; which assumptions, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant operational, business, economic and regulatory uncertainties and contingencies. These assumptions include: our estimates of the potential quantity, grade and metal content of the mineralized material at El Cubo and San Ignacio, the geotechnical and metallurgical characteristics of such material conforming to sampled results and metallurgical performance; available tonnage of mineralized material to be mined and processed; resource grades and recoveries; assumptions and discount rates being appropriately applied to production estimates; prices for silver, gold and other metals remaining as estimated; currency exchange rates remaining as estimated; availability of funds for the Company's projects and to satisfy current liabilities and obligations including debt repayments; capital, decommissioning and reclamation estimates; prices for energy inputs, labour, materials, supplies and services (including transportation) and inflation rates remaining as estimated; no labour-related disruptions; no unplanned delays or interruptions in scheduled construction and production; all necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals are received in a timely manner; and the ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive. Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements and information are neither promises nor guarantees, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results, level of activity, production levels, performance or achievements of GSilver to differ materially from those expected including, but not limited to, market conditions, availability of financing, currency rate fluctuations, high inflation and interest rates, tariffs, geopolitical conflicts including wars, actual results of exploration, development and production activities, actual grades and recoveries of silver, gold and other metals from the Company's existing mines including El Cubo, San Ignacio, VMC and Topia, availability of third party mineralized material for processing, unanticipated geological or structural formations and characteristics, environmental risks, future prices of gold, silver and other metals, operating risks, accidents, labor issues, equipment or personnel delays, delays in obtaining governmental or regulatory approvals and permits, inadequate insurance, and other risks in the mining industry. There are no assurances that GSilver will be able to continue to increase production, tonnage milled and recoveries rates, improve grades and reduce costs at El Cubo, San Ignacio, VMC and/or Topia to process mineralized materials to produce silver, gold and other concentrates in the amounts, grades, recoveries, costs and timetable anticipated. In addition, GSilver's decision to process mineralized material from El Cubo, San Ignacio, VMC and Topia is not based on a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability and therefore is subject to increased uncertainty and risk of failure, both economically and technically. Mineral resources and mineralized material that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability, are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them, and may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, socio-political, marketing, and other relevant issues. There are no assurances that the Company's projected grades of gold and silver at El Cubo and San Ignacio and the anticipated level of production therefrom will be realized. In addition, there are no assurances that the Company will meet its production forecasts or generate the anticipated cash flows from operations to satisfy its scheduled debt payments or other liabilities when due or meet financial covenants to which the Company is subject or to fund its exploration programs and corporate initiatives as planned. There is also uncertainty about impact of any future global pandemic, ongoing global military conflicts, elevated inflation and interest rates and the impact they will have on the Company's operations, supply chains, ability to access mining projects or procure equipment, contractors and other personnel on a timely basis or at all and economic activity in general. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. All forward-looking statements and information made in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements and those in our continuous disclosure filings available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca including the Company's most recently filed annual information form. These forward-looking statements and information are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances save as required by law. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Hannan Metals Limited's (TSXV: HAN) (OTC Pink: HANNF) ("Hannan" or the "Company") is pleased to report new high-grade gold assay results from its 100% owned alkalic epithermal gold target at the Previsto project in Peru. Key Points: Systematic Footprint Expansion Across Multiple Directions The new channel results demonstrate mineralization extending 30 m eastward (CH16811), 400 m south (CH16827), and 230 m southeast (CH16836) from the previously announced central high-grade zone (69.1 m @ 2.4 g/t Au), systematically expanding the known mineralized footprint and proving the extensive lateral continuity of the alkaline epithermal system. Extensive Mineralized Footprint Identified Across Large-Scale System These results validate the presence of a broad, low to moderate-grade alkaline epithermal system with excellent structural continuity across a very large 3 km x 3 km footprint, reinforcing the large areas of low grade with smaller pockets of high grades, typical of major alkaline gold systems and moving beyond localized high-grade targeting. Consistent Alkaline System Signature Over Extended Area All areas display consistent alkaline gold system characteristics including K-feldspar porphyry host rocks, roscoelite phyllic alteration, and elevated vanadium signatures (0.2% to 0.4% by pXRF), confirming the systematic nature of mineralization across the expanded 3 km x 3 km area. The results demonstrate excellent lateral continuity with intersections from random outcrops defined below thick vegetation ranging from 11.5 m to 27 m wide, enabling a strategic shift from grade-based targeting to understanding the fundamental structural architecture controlling this extensive alkaline gold system, indicating potential for systematic exploration across the large footprint. Belen Drilling Update: Hannan has completed three Vista Alegre drill holes (184.6 m, 256.8 m and 347.6 m deep) testing a 2.4 km geophysical anomaly, with final assays pending. Drilling commenced at Ricardo Herrera targeting a 1,000 m x 250 m chargeability anomaly with outcropping porphyry copper-gold mineralization and strong phyllic alteration. Michael Hudson, CEO, states: "These latest results confirm we've systematically outlined a 3 km x 3 km alkaline epithermal gold system with exceptional lateral continuity - the hallmark of a district-scale find. The consistent gold-silver-tellurium mineralization, roscoelite alteration, elevated vanadium signatures, and K-feldspar porphyry host rocks across this expanded footprint demonstrate we're dealing with a coherent hydrothermal system, not isolated occurrences. This structural architecture and geochemical fingerprint mirrors what we see at world-class alkaline systems like Cripple Creek, with similar high-grade pockets within a 'sea of gold'. With environmental baseline work completed for Previsto drill permitting and our inaugural drilling program at Belen delivering three completed holes awaiting assays, we're systematically advancing multiple high-grade targets across this emerging 150 km mineral belt." Technical Discussion Previsto Central Gold Mineralization As for global alkaline gold analogues like the Cripple Creek gold system in Colorado, Previsto demonstrates remarkable parallels, particularly in grade distribution characteristics. At Cripple Creek, historic high-grade telluride veins produced bonanza ores grading several hundred troy ounces per ton, with Bob Womack's initial discovery yielding 10 to 12 troy ounces per ton and the famous "Cresson Vug" containing massive concentrations of calaverite and sylvanite tellurides. While modern heap leach operations at Cripple Creek now process low-grade material averaging 0.50 g/t Au, the Previsto system exhibits encouraging similarities to Cripple Creek's original high-grade discovery phase. Recent channel results at Previsto Central, including 69.1 m @ 2.4 g/t Au, 13 g/t Ag and 11 g/t Te (uncut), with higher-grade intervals of 3.0 m @ 12.7 g/t Au, 49 g/t Ag, 43 g/t Te, 3.0 m @ 11.2 g/t Au, 53 g/t Ag, 36 g/t Te and 0.7 m @ 16.1 g/t Au, 60 g/t Ag, 48 g/t Te, suggest Previsto may represent an alkaline gold system in its early stages of exploration. Like Cripple Creek's historic high-grade zones that were structurally controlled and persisted to depths exceeding 900 m, Previsto's roscoelite-altered zones with gold-silver-tellurium mineralization and similar alkaline igneous host rocks indicate the potential for both high-grade structural zones and extensive lower-grade disseminated mineralization that could support future exploration and development scenarios. Latest Results The latest channel sampling results from Previsto Central (Figures 3 and 4), collected from newly discovered outcrops in heavily vegetated steep terrain, continue to demonstrate the extensive nature of the alkaline epithermal gold system beyond previously defined high-grade zones. While this month's fieldwork returned modest grades, the results significantly expand the mineralized footprint and reinforce the "sea of gold" characteristics typical of large alkaline gold systems. Channel CH16811 extends the known mineralization 30 m eastward beyond the currently defined gold zone, intersecting 18 m @ 0.13 g/t Au and 2 g/t Ag, including a higher-grade interval of 3 m @ 0.59 g/t Au and 2 g/t Ag. The channel is hosted within K-feldspar porphyry (KFP) and breccia units, displaying low-intensity roscoelite phyllic alteration with goethite-ilmenite assemblages. Portable XRF analysis reveals elevated titanium (3.6%), lead (0.4%), and vanadium (0.2%) concentrations, consistent with the alkaline system signature. Channel CH16827 represents the highest-grade intersection in this press release, returning 11.5 m @ 0.67 g/t Au and 6 g/t Ag, including 1.2 m @ 2.4 g/t Au and 6 g/t Ag. Located 400 m south of the central high-grade zone but within the existing mineralized footprint, this channel intersected fluorite-adularia-pyritechalcopyrite veinlets and stockwork zones within KFP host rock displaying moderate phyllic alteration. The elevated vanadium signature (0.4% by pXRF) further supports the alkaline gold system model. Channel CH16836 demonstrates excellent lateral continuity, intersecting 27 m @ 0.36 g/t Au and 4 g/t Ag, including two distinct higher-grade intervals of 6 m @ 0.67 g/t Au and 6 g/t Ag and 3 m @ 0.54 g/t Au and 3 g/t Ag. Positioned 230 m southeast of the high-grade zone, this intersection occurs within KFP and hornfels units exhibiting phyllic alteration and quartz-adularia-goethite vein stockworks. These results continue to validate the presence of a broad, low to moderate-grade alkaline epithermal system with excellent structural continuity across a very large footprint (3 km x 3 km). K-feldspar porphyry remains the dominant host lithology, with variable contributions from breccia and hornfels units. Ongoing field work focuses on defining the primary structural controls governing mineralization distribution, moving beyond grade-based targeting to understand the fundamental architecture of this extensive alkaline gold system. System Characteristics and Mineralization Style Gold mineralization at Previsto Central displays the characteristic features of alkalic-type epithermal systems, hosted within brecciated, calcareous K-feldspar porphyry of syenitic protolith. The mineralization exhibits several key characteristics: High-grade gold zones are associated with pervasive fine roscoelite (vanadium-rich potassic mica) and fine grey quartz veining with pyrite, occurring as both veinlets and stockwork textures. Alteration assemblages include manganese oxides replacing vein and breccia fill, suggesting that unweathered mineralization contained rhodochrosite, a manganese carbonate mineral typically found in low-sulfidation epithermal systems. Primary mineralization consists of 1% disseminated pyrite with trace chalcopyrite, pyrite veinlets, roscoelite veinlets, and fine jarosite veinlets (likely after pyrite). Structural controls suggest gold deposition was focused along late strike-slip faults where horizontal movement created extensional structures within a compressional regime. Drilling Program at Belen Belen is located 23 km SW of Previsto Central. The initial phase of drilling at Belen zone consists of up to 5,000 m across 18 diamond drill holes designed to test the three primary target areas at Belen: Vista Alegre : The three drill holes will test distinct sections of the 2.4 km long geophysical anomaly targeting two zones. HDDVA001 was completed at 184.6 m, HDDVA002 has been completed at 256.8 m and third hole HDDVA003 has been completed at 347.6 m. Final assays are awaited. Ricardo Herrera : The drill rig has now moved to target the core of the substantial chargeability anomaly that extends over 1,000 m by 250 m with outcropping porphyry-style copper-gold mineralization showing moderate to strong phyllic alteration, with drill pads positioned strategically to test the lateral extent of the mineralized system. HDDRH001 has commenced drilling on a combined geological, geochemical and IP chargeability anomaly with a planned depth of 500 m. Sortilegio: The final phase drilling will investigate the 1.2 km long chargeability anomaly within the alkalic porphyry system. Drillholes will target the source of extensive surface soil copper anomalies coinciding with hydrothermal gold anomalous quartz-gossan boulders with elevated Au-Mo-Te. The chargeability response consists of three alkalic Cu-Au targets identified within the 1.2 km long trend. The drilling program is expected to take approximately 6 months to complete, with first assay results anticipated in the first part of August 2025. Hannan Metals is committed to legal compliance, community respect, and environmental stewardship, emphasizing that all operations only proceed with proper authorization from local populations and with required environmental and archaeological certifications. Drill Permitting in Previsto A ten-person environmental team including professional environmental archaeological investigations, community workshops and liaison activities has now completed collecting appropriate information necessary to make the submittal for approval to the DGAAM - General Directorate of Mining Environmental Affairs - of the Ministry of Energy and Mines, Peru. The work program includes: Environmental baseline monitoring for the project, conducted by third party experts (now complete); Submission to the Peruvian Ministry of Culture the CIRA (Certificate of non-existence of archaeological remains) which declares that the project does not impact archaeological sites; Public participation meetings outlining Hannan's exploration plans will be held in the hamlets of Nueva Palestina, Inca Garcilazo, Chancadora and Previsto, where the communities are on record as approving the company's proposed drill program; The DIA is the primary environmental certification required to allow low impact mineral exploration programs, that includes drilling programs, to proceed in Peru. Final DIA and other approvals are anticipated during Q3 2026. About the Valiente Project The 100% owned Valiente project is in central eastern Peru, east of the city of Tingo Maria (Figures 1 and 2). The area is characterized by steep topography on the eastern flank of the Central Cordillera with elevations between 800 m and 2,000 m above sea level (a.s.l.). The project was found in 2021 during an extensive greenfields prospecting program initiated by Hannan for back-arc porphyry copper-gold systems. The Company has been actively prospecting on the project since 2021 and has successfully gained social permits progressively in all areas of interest. During 2021 Hannan staked and still holds 1,002 km2 of 100% owned mining concessions at Valiente covering unexplored terrain for potential mineralized porphyry targets in central eastern Peru. The Valiente Project has rapidly evolved from a greenfields prospect to a multi-prospect opportunity. Early surface prospecting identified two outcropping copper-gold porphyry targets and one epithermal target at Belen (see Press Release Feb 16, 2023). Porphyry areas quickly followed at Serrano Norte, Serrano and Pucacunga. The focus more recently has been on Previsto. At Previsto and Belen, a district-scale porphyry cluster within an area of 25 km by 10 km, with eight porphyry and/or epithermal targets now identified in more detail with up to 10 earlier stage targets awaiting further work. The company is executing a multi-year strategy to systematically explore and drill test its extensive land package in this emerging Miocene-aged, linked porphyry-epithermal mineral belt. Technical Background All samples were collected by Hannan geologists. Samples were transported to ALS in Lima via third party services using trackable parcels and by company staff. At the laboratory, rock samples were prepared and analyzed by standard methods. The sample preparation involved crushing 70% to less than 2 mm, riffle split off 250 g, pulverize split to better than 85% passing 75 microns. Samples were analyzed by method ME-MS61, a four-acid digest performed on 0.25 g of the sample to quantitatively dissolve most geological materials. Analysis is via ICP-MS. Gold was analyzed in rock and soils by ALS in Lima using a standard sample preparation and 30 g fire assay sample charge. Soil samples were analyzed by a portable XRF (VANTA-VMR) using an in-house protocol which includes routine use of CRM and field duplicates as well as 10% check samples analyzed by ALS Lima. Channel samples are considered representative of the in-situ mineralization samples. At this stage true widths of mineralization are not known. Grab or panel samples are selective by nature and are unlikely to represent average grades on the property. About Hannan Metals Limited (TSXV: HAN) (OTC Pink: HANNF) Hannan Metals Limited is an exploration company focused on the discovery of large gold and copper mineralizing systems in new frontiers in Peru. Over the last decade, the team behind Hannan has forged a long and successful record of discovering, financing, and advancing mineral projects in Australia, Europe and South America. Mr. Michael Hudson FAusIMM, Hannan's Chairman and CEO, a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, has prepared, reviewed, verified and approved the technical contents of this news release. Forward-Looking Statements Certain disclosure contained in this news release may constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. These statements may relate to this news release and other matters identified in the Company's public filings. In making the forward-looking statements the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: the political environment in which the Company operates continuing to support the development and operation of mining projects; the threat associated with outbreaks of viruses and infectious diseases; risks related to negative publicity with respect to the Company or the mining industry in general; planned work programs; permitting; and community relations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news. Figure 1: Overview of the 1,002 km2 Valiente project area in Peru. Figure 2: Map showing the vast 4x4 km gold anomaly at Previsto and the location of the expanding gold find. Figure 3: Overview of the gold discovery at Previsto Central. Figure 4: The Previsto Project, analogous to the giant Cripple Creek gold district. Widespread gold in soil and rock chips extend this known mineralization into a vast 3km x 3km area, indicating significant potential to expand the mineralized footprint. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQB: APAAF) (FSE: A0I0) (MUN: A0I0) (BER: A0I0) (the "Company" or "Appia") is pleased to announce it has acquired two auger drill rigs and initiated Phase 1 of a new 241-hole auger campaign, which will begin with the first 100 holes. These first holes will test the newly defined Gaia target, located adjacent to the Taygeta and Merope zones within the PCH rare-earth element (REE) project in Goias State, Brazil (Figure 1). This area was selected for its strong geological and geophysical similarities to Taygeta and Merope, where previous drilling identified high-grade, shallow ionic-adsorption clay (IAC) mineralization. Drilling is scheduled to begin by August 1st, 2025. "With this drilling phase, we aim to evaluate the newly identified Gaia target, which shares the same geological and geophysical characteristics as the Taygeta and Merope zones. Our objective is to complete infill drilling to confirm the rare earth potential of the area and further define additional mineralized zones to support the project's continued advancement," said Tom Drivas, CEO & Director. The auger drilling campaign will now focus on the Gaia target, aiming to evaluate whether it hosts comparable rare earth element potential. While no geochemical analyses have yet been conducted in Gaia, its striking resemblance in terrain, lithology, and magnetic response to Taygeta and Meropezones that returned excellent TREO grades with highly favorable desorption characteristicsmakes it a priority for Phase 1 exploration (see News Release dated February 4, 2025). The PCH property sits on gently rolling terrain with convenient infrastructure just 15 minutes from a nearby mining town. Appia's PCH Project hosts two distinct styles of critical rare earth element (CREE) mineralization: Ionic Adsorption Clays (IAC) and high-grade carbonatitic breccia. Rare earths contained in IAC are typically more easily extractable, offering significantly lower operating (Opex) and capital costs (Capex). This is due to the simple extraction process, which avoids blasting, crushing, and millingeliminating the generation of tailings and the need for a tailings storage facility. Instead, the material is amenable to leaching using ammonium sulfate, a common and cost-effective fertilizer. The PCH project contains significant amounts of heavy rare earths needed to meet the increasing demand for permanent magnets used in EVs and other application in the clean energy transition. The technical content in this news release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Don Hains, P.Geo, Consulting Geologist, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Please Click Here for the full list of drill hole coordinates. Figure 1 - Proposed Auger Drill Targets (yellow dots) for the 2025 PCH Program. Auger drilling is being conducted in Phase 1 to assess the rare earth potential of the newly defined Gaia target, which shares geological and geophysical characteristics with the nearby Taygeta and Merope zones. Figure 2 - Location of historic and planned DDH, RC, and Auger drillholes on PCH. About Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. Appia is a publicly traded Canadian company in the rare earth element and uranium sectors. The Company holds the right to acquire up to a 70% interest in the PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project (See June 9th, 2023 Press Release Click HERE) which is 42,932.24 ha. in size and located within the Goias State of Brazil. (See January 11th, 2024 Press Release Click HERE) The Company is also focusing on delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements and gallium on the Alces Lake property, and exploring for high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Otherside, Loranger, North Wollaston, and Eastside properties. The Company holds the surface rights to exploration for 94,982.39 hectares (234,706.59 acres) in Saskatchewan. The Company also has a 100% interest in 13,008 hectares (32,143 acres), with rare earth elements and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario. Appia has 168.5 million common shares outstanding, 207.8 million shares fully diluted. Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements: This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or including the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For more information, visit www.appiareu.com. As part of our ongoing effort to keep investors, interested parties and stakeholders updated, we have several communication portals. If you have any questions online (X, Facebook, LinkedIn) please feel free to send direct messages. To book a one-on-one 30-minute Zoom video call, please click here. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Prospector Metals Corp. (TSXV: PPP) (OTCQB: PMCOF) (FSE: 1ET) ("Prospector" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has more than doubled the size of its flagship ML Project in the Yukon ("ML"). It is also pleased to provide an update to the ongoing drill program, with the first assay results expected in the coming weeks. Rob Carpenter, Ph.D., PGeo., President, CEO and Co-Chairman of Prospector, stated: "Our pace of drilling has exceeded our expectations while still being within our approved budget. To date, we are currently 970m ahead of schedule. While we continue to confidently spot new holes based on our real time visual interpretations of drill core, this fast drill pace has created a back log for sample cutting on site as well as sample analysis at our assay laboratory. We are systematically sampling the entire hole in order to capture a complete assay picture, and this large amount of sampling is also slowing down our pace for assay results. We are expecting a large amount of assays in the next few weeks and as a result, we anticipate our first release to encompass multiple holes drilled at the Bueno, Java and Rubble Targets." Drill Update A total of 3600m meters over 20 holes have been completed on the ML Project to date (Table 1). This is 970m ahead of schedule. Observations from the ongoing drill program have confirmed the mineralized corridor from Skarn Ridge to Bueno is hosted within north-northeast trending structural zones with near vertical dips. Previous interpretations of the targets had not accounted for these north-northeast trends, and as a consequence, historical drilling did not adequately test the structural controls on mineralization. Prospector is the first Company to recognize the importance of north-northeast trending structures and current drilling is successfully extending these zones along trend and to depth. Table 1. Target # of Holes Meters Drilled Bueno 9 1554 Skarn Ridge 8 1474 Java 2 299 Rubble 1 282 Total to date 20 3609 Figure 1. North - Northeast trending structures and 2025 Drilling at Bueno Target. Figure 2. North - Northeast trending structures and 2025 Drilling at Skarn Ridge Target. Figure 3. 2025 Drill plan map and new drill traces relative to previous drilling. Claim Staking Prospector has recently expanded the size of the ML project through claim staking. Prospector owns these new claims 100% and are not subject to any third-party royalty. The size of the project has been increased from 4,757 ha (47.57 km2) to 10,869 ha (108.69km2) representing a 128.48% increase in the size of the project. The project now consists of 552 mineral claims, of which 296 claims are newly staked. The claims were staked to cover new target areas generated through analysis of regional historical data, LiDAR and WorldView-3 remote sensing data, as well as new concepts developed during the ongoing 2025 drill program. Figure 4. ML Project Claim Map, Initial and Additional Claim Area. Qualified Person The technical content disclosed in this press release was reviewed and approved by Jodie Gibson, P.Geo., Vice President Exploration of Prospector, and a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument NI 43-101 ("NI 43-101"). About Prospector Metals Corp. Prospector Metals Corp. is a proud member of Discovery Group. The Company is focused on district scale, early-stage exploration of gold and base metal prospects. Creating shareholder value through new discoveries, the Company identifies underexplored or overlooked mineral districts displaying important structural and mineralogical occurrences similar to more established mining operations. The majority of acquisition activity occurs in Yukon and Ontario, Canada Historical mining jurisdictions with an abundance of overlooked geological regions possessing high mineral potential. Prospector establishes and maintains relationships with local and Indigenous rightsholders and seeks to develop partnerships and agreements that are mutually beneficial to all interested parties. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Prospector Metals Corp. Dr. Rob Carpenter, Ph.D., P.Geo. President & CEO Prospector Metals Corp. is a proud member of Discovery Group. For more information, please visit: discoverygroup.ca. Forward-Looking Statement Cautions: This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, including, but not limited to, statements regarding the Company's plans with respect to the Company's projects and the timing related thereto, the merits of the Company's projects, the Company's objectives, plans and strategies, and other project opportunities. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "aims," "potential," "goal," "objective,", "strategy", "prospective," and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "can," "could" or "should" occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include the risk of accidents and other risks associated with mineral exploration operations, the risk that the Company will encounter unanticipated geological factors, or the possibility that the Company may not be able to secure permitting and other agency or governmental clearances, necessary to carry out the Company's exploration plans, risk of political uncertainties and regulatory or legal changes in the jurisdictions where the Company carries on its business that might interfere with the Company's business and prospects. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's reports, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR+) at www.sedarplus.ca for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On July 24 local time, BYD introduced its all-electric compact SUVthe BYD ATTO 2, marketed as the BYD Yuan UP in Chinaat a launch event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, according to the automaker's press release. The move underscores the automaker's continued push to expand its footprint in Southeast Asia's growing EV market. Photo credit: BYD Speaking at the launch, Zhao Yue, General Manager of BYD Malaysia, highlighted the brand's three-year streak as Malaysia's best-selling BEV maker. He attributed this success to strong consumer trust and brand recognition, noting that the ATTO 2 enters a market where demand for affordable, high-tech EVs continues to rise. More than just a compact SUV, Mr. Zhao said, the ATTO 2 represents a new lifestyleactive, confident, and future-facingtargeting not only young buyers but also anyone eager to embrace innovation and green mobility. To better serve the Malaysian market, BYD and its sub-brand DENZA have already established more than 40 retail locations. Plans are underway to expand the service network to over 30 outlets, ensuring convenient and professional support for customers across the country. Andrew Basham, Managing Director of Sime Darby Motors (BYD's local dealer partner), emphasized the ATTO 2's appeal to a younger generation of Malaysians. He described the model as a lifestyle-oriented EV that reimagines vehicle ownership through flexible financing options and BYD's partnership with "Power Up"a first-of-its-kind mobile charging service in the country. The initiative is aimed at addressing charging difficulties for residents in high-rise buildings, which remain a key hurdle to widespread EV adoption in Malaysia. Looking ahead, BYD said it plans to further localize its operations in Malaysia by strengthening its sales and service infrastructure in partnership with local partners. The company also reiterated its commitment to promoting sustainable transportation in the region, aiming to help accelerate the country's transition toward a low-carbon future. July 29, 2025 TheNewswire - Vancouver, British Columbia - Pampa Metals Corp. (Pampa Metals) (CSE:PM / FSE:FIR / OTCQB:PMMCF) is pleased to advise of the appointment of major shareholder Tony Manini as Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Paola Brewster as a Non-Executive Director. Concurrently, founding Pampa Metals Directors Adrian Manger and Julian Bavin have resigned. Tony Manini is a well-known geologist-mining entrepreneur and co-founder of multiple highly successful exploration and mining businesses globally. He has been closely involved in the funding, discovery, development and sale of multiple mines and deposits in both the public and private sectors, including several highly successful junior exploration companies listed on the ASX, TSX-V and London AIM markets. Paola Brewster is a Colombian national with extensive mining industry experience, a former Director of the Australia-Latin America business council and a former senior diplomat for the Colombian government in Australia. Joseph van den Elsen, Pampa Metals President and CEO commented: Board and management renewal has been a key focus as Pampa Metals evolves into a multi-asset company with a portfolio of high-quality South American porphyry copper discoveries. Along with fellow director Bryce Roxburgh, I welcome major shareholder Tony Manini and Paola Brewster to the Board at this exciting time in the Companys evolution and thank outgoing Directors Adrian and Julian for their valuable contribution since inception. We have now assembled a high calibre, complementary board, capable of unlocking the inherent value within our portfolio. Incoming Chairman Tony Manini commented: I am excited to be joining the Pampa Metals Board at this major inflection point. Through a combination of strong technical and commercial acumen, Pampa Metals has secured a compelling portfolio of high-quality copper projects along the world class Andean porphyry copper belt. The Piuquenes and Cobrasco projects have already demonstrated the potential for major copper deposits, and I strongly believe that further exploration and evaluation of these projects will deliver very significant value for shareholders. I look forward to leading the board and working with the management team during this transformational time for the Company Tony Manini Biography Tony Manini is a geologist-mining entrepreneur who has been closely involved in the funding, discovery, development and sale of multiple companies, mines and deposits over 35 years. Tonys background covers a wide range of commodities in more than 20 countries and includes technical, commercial, senior management and executive roles with Rio Tinto, Oxiana, OZ Minerals, Tigers Realm Group, and resources private equity firm EMR Capital. He is a co-founder of EMR Capital and Tigers Realm Group, a resource company incubator which listed several successful exploration and development companies including NexGen Energy (TSXV:NXE) and C3 Metals Inc (TSXV:CCCM). Tony is currently the Chairman of C3 Metals Inc. and Asiamet Resources Ltd (AIM:ARS). Paola Brewster Biography Paola Brewster is an international leader with two decades of experience across government relations, social performance, governance frameworks, risk management and industry technical roles. As a former senior diplomat for the Colombian government in Australia, Paola has been a strong advocate for transparent public policy supportive of attracting and maintaining foreign direct investment. Her diplomatic leadership was instrumental in securing the first-ever Colombia-Australia Memorandum of Understanding on Mininga landmark bilateral achievement. Paola is the current upstream South Australian Operations Lead at ASX listed gas major Santos (market cap $25B) and has previously held management leadership positions in health and safety, fixed plant maintenance, reliability improvement and external affairs with Newcrest Mining and Catalyst Metals. Prior to these roles, Paola worked with OceanaGold Corporation and Kingsgate Limited across the Philippines, Thailand, New Zealand, and Australia advancing her passion for collaborating with impacted communities. Her qualifications include a Master of Business Administration, Master of International Business, a Bachelor of Law, a Certificate in Applied Finance and Diplomas in Mineral Exploration Geoscience, Mining Processing and Mechanical Reliability and Maintenance. Grant of Incentive Stock Options The Company has granted a total of 10,500,000 stock options of a 5-year term to Directors, officers and consultants. 3,500,000 stock options are exercisable at $0.30, 3,500,000 are exercisable at $0.40 and 3,500,500 are exercisable at $0.50. Following this grant, the Company will have 14,685,000 options outstanding, equivalent to ~6.9% of the outstanding common shares ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Joseph van den Elsen | President & CEO | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. INVESTOR CONTACT | Jordan Webster | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ABOUT PAMPA METALS Pampa Metals is a copper-gold exploration company listed on the Canadian Stock Exchange (CSE:PM), Frankfurt (FSE: FIR), and OTC (OTCQB: PMMCF) exchanges, rapidly advancing two high potential copper discoveries in the prolific Andean porphyry belts of Argentina, Colombia. The Company has been actively drilling multiple porphyry copper-gold discoveries on the Piuquenes Copper-Gold Project in San Juan Province, Argentina under an Option and Joint Venture Agreement (earning an 80% interest) signed in November 2023. In July 2025, Pampa Metals completed the acquisition of Rugby Resources (TSXV: RUG) and its Cobrasco and Mantau copper projects in Colombia and Chile respectively. Cobrasco is a new copper discovery of potential scale in the early stages of exploration. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as plans, expects or does not expect, is expected, budget, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates or does not anticipate, or believes, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to Pampa Metals ongoing business plan, exploration and work program. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management at the time, are inherently subject to business, market and economic risks, uncertainties and contingencies that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Such assumptions include, but are not limited to, assumptions regarding expectations and assumptions that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner. Although Pampa Metals has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Such statements represent the current views of Pampa Metals with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by Pampa Metals, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to; changes to Pampa Metals current and future business plans and the strategic alternatives available thereto; and regulatory determinations and delays. Other factors which could materially affect such forward-looking information are described in Pampa Metals management discussion and analysis and financial statements for each of the companies most recent fiscal year end and in Pampa Metals other filings with the Canadian securities regulators which are available under their respective profiles on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Pampa Metals does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange, the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Calgary, Alberta TheNewswire - July 29, 2025 - Ashley Gold Corp. (CSE: ASHL) (Ashley or the Company) is pleased to announce a closing of tranche 1 for gross proceeds of $136,890.00 anchored by President Noah Komavli. I want to thank our shareholders for their continued support, as well as welcome new shareholders to our developing story. As of today our field crew has been mobilized to the Howie Property to execute phase 1 work, which will focus on washing and channel sampling of the Twilight Zone, as well as more detailed sampling of the Creek Showing. The program is expected to take just under two weeks. While boots hit the ground, simultaneous desktop consolidation of Esso drill logs will proceed. This study will generate a lithology model, which will be critical in finalizing drill pad locations, combined with additional data from channel samples and our completed IP survey. The Esso logs are historic in nature, but extremely detailed, with assays redacted. Esso returned for a second field and drilling season prior to divesting all mineral exploration assets and focusing solely on oil and gas. With permits in hand for diamond drilling at our highly prospective Howie property, an immediate focus will be validation of historic channel cut values on the Twilight zone. Tranche 2 proceeds will be used exclusively for diamond drilling. stated Noah Komavli. Project History - Howie Property Figure 1: Howie Project Resistivity and Chargeability (Respectively). HL-06 emerges as a top drill target, with width and strike. HL-02, HL-04 and HL-05 are also strong anomalies. Grid expansion recommended in future work program. Phase 1 washing and channels will target the edge of the mineralized horizon in the Twilight Zone. TRANCHE 1 DETAILS The first tranche consisted of the issuance of 2,040,000 FT shares and 775,333 NFT shares for gross proceeds of $136,890.00. Each NFT unit consists of one common share and one-half a transferrable common share purchase warrant, enabling the holder to purchase one common share at an exercise price of $0.12, expiring in two years. The proceeds from the NFT Offering will be allocated towards the exploration of the Company's mineral properties and general operational expenses. Each FT Unit (FT) consists of one flow-through common share of the Company and one half a non-flow-through common share purchase warrant with each FT Warrant exercisable to purchase one non-flow-through common share of the Company at $0.12 for two years from the date of issue. The Company intends to use the gross proceeds of the FT Offering to incur "Canadian exploration expenses" as defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada) and proposed amendments thereto. Finders' fees of $2,722.50 in cash plus 60,500 broker warrants were paid to arm's length parties. Shares issued pursuant to the Financing will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance, according to the applicable security laws of Canada. The Financing constitutes a "related party transaction" within the meaning of OSC Policy 61-101, Multilateral Instrument 61101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61101") because an Insider of the Company, Noah Komavli, participated in the Financing and have acquired FT Units as is equal to $80,000 in connection with the Financing. The Company has relied on exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61101 in respect of the Financing as the fair market value (as determined under MI 61-101) of the Insider participation in the Financing is below 25% of the Company's market capitalization (as determined in accordance with MI 61-101). FINANCING TERMS AND USE OF PROCEEDS The Company announces a non-brokered private placement financing (the Offering) for aggregate proceeds of up to $275,000 (CDN) to advance exploration on Ashleys Ontario and British Columbia gold properties, as well as for general working capital. The Offering consists of a Non-Flow-Through (NFT) Unit at a price of $0.045. Each Unit is comprised of one common share and one-half of one share purchase warrant. Each full warrant is exercisable for one non-flow through common share, at an exercise price of $0.12 for a term of 24 months after the closing (Closing Date). The Offering also consists of a Flow-Through (FT) Unit at a price of $0.05. Each Unit is comprised of one common share and one-half of one share purchase warrant. Each full warrant is exercisable for one non-flow through common share, at an exercise price of $0.12 for a term of 24 months after the closing (Closing Date). In connection with the issue and sale of the Units under the Offering, the Company may pay finder fees and finder warrants to eligible finders at the discretion of the Board of Directors. THE EXISTING SHAREHOLDER EXEMPTION AND INVESTMENT DEALER EXEMPTION The Offering will be made available to existing shareholders of the Company who, as of the close of business on July 3, 2025, held common shares of the Company (and who continue to hold such common shares as of the closing date), pursuant to the prospectus exemption set out in B.C. Instrument 45-534 Exemption From Prospectus Requirement for Certain Trades to Existing Security Holders and in similar instruments in other jurisdictions in Canada. The existing shareholder exemption limits a shareholder to a maximum investment of $15,000 in a 12-month period unless the shareholder has obtained advice regarding the suitability of the investment and, if the shareholder is resident in a jurisdiction of Canada, that advice has been obtained from a person that is registered as an investment dealer in the jurisdiction. If the Company receives subscriptions from investors relying on the existing shareholder exemption exceeding the maximum amount of the financing, the Company intends to adjust the subscriptions received on a pro rata basis. The Company has also made the Offering available to certain subscribers pursuant to B.C. Instrument 45-536 Exemption Form Prospectus Requirement for Certain Distributions Through an Investment Dealer. In accordance with the requirements of the investment dealer exemption, the Company confirms that there is no material fact or material change about the Company that has not been generally disclosed. The Offering is subject to all necessary regulatory approvals including acceptance from the Canadian Securities Exchange. All securities issued in connection with the Offering will be subject to a four-month hold period from the closing date under applicable Canadian securities laws, in addition to such other restrictions as may apply under applicable securities laws of jurisdictions outside Canada. *Grab samples are selective samples, and the assay results may not necessarily represent true underlying mineralization. References [1] https://ashleygoldcorp.com/2025/05/26/ashley-gold-corp-announces-up-to-20-2-g-t-au-from-mechanized-stripping-and-channel-sampling-program-howie-project/ Qualified Person The technical and scientific information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Darcy Christian, P.Geo., CEO of Ashley, who is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. About Ashley Gold Corp. Ashley Gold Corp. is a focused exploration company targeting high-potential gold and polymetallic deposits in Canadas top mining regions. We aim to deliver strong returns for shareholders through smart exploration and strategic growth. Our Assets Ontario (Dryden Area): 100% ownership in Burnthut, Tabor, Howie, Alto-Gardnar, plus an option on Sakoose claims. British Columbia: Icefield Portfolio with three promising claim packages. For more information, visit: www.ashleygoldcorp.com. Contact Information On behalf of the Board of Directors, Noah J. Komavli, President, Director C: (647) 567-9840 E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. X: KKomavli -Or- Darcy Christian, P.Geo, CEO C: (587) 777-9072 E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Connect With Ashley: www.ashleygoldcorp.com X: https://x.com/AshleyGoldCorp Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain forward-looking statements which are not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, and by their very nature involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on currently available information, Ashley Gold Corp. provides no assurance that actual results will meet managements expectations. Factors which cause results to differ materially are set out in the Companys documents filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) (www.sedarplus.ca). Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Kobrea Exploration Corp. (CSE: KBX) (FSE: F3I) (OTCQB: KBXFF) ("Kobrea" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Directorate of Mining and the Directorate of Environmental Protection of the Province of Mendoza, Argentina, have issued Resolution N 246/25 and Resolution N 64/25 approving the Company's Environmental Impact Report update for the El Perdido mining project, which includes the Company's Phase 1 exploration plan to construct approximately 14 kilometres of mining access road, install a temporary exploration camp and complete diamond drilling activities at the El Perdido porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum system. Drilling will commence upon completion of the access road and construction of the exploration camp, which will begin as soon as practicable. "The approval of the Environmental Impact Report for the El Perdido Project and the ability to drill is a significant milestone for the project and for the Company as a whole," commented James Hedalen, CEO. "Kobrea is the first public company to have drilling activities approved in the Western Malargue Mining District and we greatly appreciate the efforts from all of those involved with the process. We are excited to conduct the first ever drill program on Kobrea's projects, specifically at the El Perdido porphyry target. I would like to especially thank the Director of Mining, the Minister of Energy and Environment, the Governor of Mendoza Province, the Mayor of Malargue, Impulsa Mendoza, Kobrea's legal counsel, GT Ingeneria S.A. and the project vendors for their diligent and hard work to get to this permit approved." The Directors of Impulsa Mendoza stated, regarding the approval of the drilling permit granted by the Mendoza mining authority, "that this is a clear sign both of the consolidation of the advancement of mining activity in the Province of Mendoza and of the legal security that public authorities offer to those, like Kobrea, who have chosen to invest and develop mining projects in this province." Approval of Environmental Impact Statement By means of Resolution No. 135/24 of the Directorate of Mining and No. 38/24 of the Directorate of Environmental Protection (the "Resolution"), the Environmental Impact Report of the mining project called "EL PERDIDO" presented by "IMPULSA", ratified by Law No. 9588, is approved as an Environmental Impact Statement. Now, by Article 1 of the Resolutions N 246/25 and N 64/25, the Directorate of Mining and the Directorate of Environmental Protection states that the update of the Environmental Impact Report, presented by the proponent MINERA AGAUCU S.A., on behalf of Kobrea Exploraciones Argentina S.A., corresponding to the Project called "EL PERDIDO", located in the Department of Malargue, Province of Mendoza, is hereby approved. Exploration Plans The Company's Environmental Impact Report provides for the construction of a 14-kilometre drill access road, construction of a temporary exploration camp and diamond drilling activities at the El Perdido porphyry copper system. A water supply permit, granted by the General Superintendence of Irrigation of Mendoza, has also been secured by the Company to facilitate drilling and camp operations. The maiden diamond drilling program will test the center of the porphyry copper system at El Perdido where the highest density of A-type quartz stockwork veining associated with a potassic alteration assemblage occurs and which has been intruded by a series of inter-mineral hydrothermal breccias. El Perdido Project The 6,878-hectare El Perdido Project is host to a porphyry Cu-Au-Mo system that has been defined at surface but has not seen any drilling to date. The porphyry target is characterized as a 2 x 3-kilometre hydrothermal alteration footprint exhibiting classic porphyry alteration assemblages with localized potassic alteration coming to surface (Figure 1). A 900 x 500-metre area of quartz stockwork veining coincides with anomalous copper-gold-molybdenum rock geochemistry, mapped quartz diorite porphyritic intrusions, localized biotite breccias and potassic alteration in an area that is otherwise dominated by phyllic alteration. Interpretation of ground magnetometer data collected in 2013 outlines a subsurface magnetic anomaly measuring roughly 1,000 metres across and extending 1,000 metres to depth that is surrounded by a decreased magnetic signature, representing an attractive geophysical target in the context of porphyry Cu-Au-Mo exploration. Figure 1. 3-dimensional representation of the porphyry Cu-Au-Mo exploration target at El Perdido. Qualified Person The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Rory Ritchie, P.Geo., Chief Geologist and Director of Kobrea and a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. About Kobrea Kobrea Exploration Corp. is a mineral exploration & development company focused on the acquisition and exploration of base metal projects. Kobrea holds the right to earn a 100% interest in 7 projects totaling over 733 km2 in southwestern Mendoza Province, Argentina (see the Company's August 19, 2024 news release for details). The properties are considered highly prospective for porphyry copper and porphyry copper-gold deposits. Numerous porphyry copper targets have been outlined to date exhibiting multi-kilometre hydrothermal alteration footprints, anomalous copper gold molybdenum geochemistry, quartz stockwork veining, localized hydrothermal breccias and Miocene aged dacitic to dioritic porphyry intrusions. Kobrea also holds a 100% interest in the Upland Copper Project in British Columbia, Canada. For more information, please consult the Company's filings, available at www.sedarplus.ca. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Per: "James Hedalen" James Hedalen CEO & Director Contact Information Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws with respect to the Company, including statements respecting: the Company's phase 1 exploration plan; timing for commencement of drilling at El Perdido; the approval of the Company's Environmental Impact Report update signaling the consolidation of advancement of mining activity in the Province of Mendoza and the legal security that public authorities offer to those who have chosen to invest and develop mining projects in the province; and the scope and purpose of the maiden drill program at El Perdido. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by words such as "believe," "project," "aim," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "strategy," "future," "opportunity," "plan," "may," "should," "will," "would," and similar expressions. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements and information are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements and information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release. The forward-looking statements included in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable laws. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed this press release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. 57.8 G/T GOLD AND 2,120 G/T SILVER RETURNED FROM NEW TARGET 6 AREA High-Grade Channel Sampling Results Inform New 2025 Drilling Plans Melbourne, Australia and Vancouver, Canada TheNewswire July 29th, 2025 - Mithril Silver and Gold Limited ("Mithril or the "Company") (TSXV: MSG) (ASX: MTH) is pleased to provide more exploration results for multiple targets at Mithrils district scale Copalquin property, Durango State, Mexico. Highlights New Target 6 high-grade assays received from channel sampling at historic Santa Cruz underground mine High-grade surface channel sampling continues to expand Target 5 ahead of first drilling mid-August 2025 Mineralised corridors now cover 2 km x 8 km over 1,200 m elevation profile within the 70km mining concession area Backed by its recent capital raise, Mithril is fully funded to complete 45,000 metres of drilling over the next 12 months, with a third drill rig set to be added in early 2026 Highlight channel sample results from surface and underground at Targets 5 and 6 0.70 m @ 57.8 g/t gold, 2,120 g/t silver (814673; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1, T6) 0.80 m @ 17.4 g/t gold, 603 g/t silver (814674; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1, T6) 0.50 m @ 8.42 g/t gold, 188 g/t silver (814669; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1, T6) 0.70 m @ 23.2 g/t gold, 755 g/t silver (814665; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.50 m @ 28.1 g/t gold, 233 g/t silver (814681; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.50 m @ 14.35 g/t gold, 584 g/t silver (814658; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.70 m @ 9.06 g/t gold, 421 g/t silver (814664; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.55 m @ 7.68 g/t gold, 437 g/t silver (814685; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.80 m @ 7.11 g/t gold, 303 g/t silver (814657; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.50 m @ 8.28 g/t gold, 77 g/t silver (814660; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2, T6) 0.50 m @ 27.9 g/t gold, 14 g/t silver (814239; surface, La Maquina, T5) 0.30 m @ 9.60 g/t gold, 608 g/t silver (814194; surface, La Cucaracha, T5) The spectacular high-grade results from Target 6, including 57.8 g/t gold and 2,120 g/t silver over 0.7m, underscore the exceptional potential of the Copalquin District, commented John Skeet, Managing Director & CEO. Our talented team continues to uncover new mineralised zones across multiple targets, and the large system is rapidly expanding. Additionally, with roads completed and drill pads in place at Target 5, we are prepared to launch aggressive drilling in August 2025. The consistent scale and high-grades were encountering across the district solidifies Copalquin as one of the most compelling emerging gold-silver camps in Mexicos Sierra Madre trend. With strong backing from our recent equity raise, were strategically funded to unlock the full potential of the district through accelerated exploration. COPALQUIN GOLD-SILVER DISTRICT, DURANGO STATE, MEXICO Figure 1 Copalquin District location map, locations of mining and exploration activity and local infrastructure. With 100 historic underground gold-silver mines and workings plus 198 surface workings/pits throughout 70km2 of mining concession area, Copalquin is an entire mining district with high-grade exploration results and a maiden JORC resource. To date there are several target areas in the district with one already hosting a high-grade gold-silver JORC mineral resource estimate (MRE) at the Target 1 area (El Refugio-La Soledad)1 and a NI 43-101 Technical Report filed on SEDAR+, supported by a conceptional underground mining study completed on the maiden resource in early 2022 and metallurgical test work (see ASX Announcement 25 February 2022). There is considerable strike and depth potential to increase the resource at El Refugio and at other target areas across the district, plus the underlying geologic system that is responsible for the widespread gold-silver mineralisation. With the district-wide gold and silver occurrences and rapid exploration success, it is clear the Copalquin District is developing into another significant gold-silver district like the many other districts in this prolific Sierra Madre Gold-Silver Trend of Mexico. Figure 2. LiDAR identified historic workings across the 70km2 district. Current drilling locations at Targets 1 and Zaragoza mine area, high priority drill target area of La Constancia-El Jabali (Target 3) and Target 5. Several new areas highlighted across the district for follow-up work including recently sampled Target 6 Copalquin District Exploration Progress Update Surficial and underground channel sampling at Target 3, 5 and 6 Areas have continued to deliver excellent results, with several channel samples intersecting high-grade gold and silver within broad, outcropping vein systems (Figures 2, 3). Drilling is continuing at Target 1 ahead for the resource update for this target in the second half of 2025. The second drill is currently completing a program of holes at the Zaragoza historic mine area near the eastern side of the Target 5 area before commencing the first 5,000 metre drill program at Target 5 in August 2025. Figure 3. Property-wide channel sampling results for the middle and south district sections within ~50% of the 70 km2 mining concession area covering the Copalquin District Target 6 is a recently defined zone located 1.4 km east of Target 3 (see Figure 3). Within the Target area lies the historic Santa Cruz mine which hosts east-west trending, subvertical mineralized quartz veins and northwest trending quartz breccias. Sampling of the underground workings has yielded numerous high-grade gold and silver listed below (see Figure 4), including 0.70 m @ 57.8 g/t gold, 2,120 g/t silver and 0.70 m @ 23.2 g/t gold, 755 g/t silver. Mapping and sampling of the Target 6 area is ongoing. 0.70 m @ 57.8 g/t gold, 2,120 g/t silver (814673; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1) 0.70 m @ 23.2 g/t gold, 755 g/t silver (814665; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.50 m @ 28.1 g/t gold, 233 g/t silver (814681; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.80 m @ 17.4 g/t gold, 603 g/t silver (814674; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1) 0.50 m @ 14.35 g/t gold, 584 g/t silver (814658; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.70 m @ 9.06 g/t gold, 421 g/t silver (814664; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.55 m @ 7.68 g/t gold, 437 g/t silver (814685; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.80 m @ 7.11 g/t gold, 303 g/t silver (814657; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.50 m @ 8.42 g/t gold, 188 g/t silver (814669; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1) 0.50 m @ 8.28 g/t gold, 77 g/t silver (814660; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.50 m @ 3.94 g/t gold, 196 g/t silver (814683; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.90 m @ 4.50 g/t gold, 94.2 g/t silver (814659; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.70 m @ 1.78 g/t gold, 102 g/t silver (814687; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.50 m @ 2.18 g/t gold, 56.9 g/t silver (814679; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) 0.50 m @ 1.45 g/t gold, 76.6 g/t silver (814663; underground, Santa Cruz Level 2) m @ 1.04 g/t gold, 64.1 g/t silver (814672; underground, Santa Cruz Level 1) Figure 4. Channel sample results at the newly developing Target 6 (Santa Cruz historic mine area) Ongoing mapping at Target 5 including the La Cucaracha, La Maquina, Apomal and Veta Azul continues to identify additional vein systems and underground workings, significantly expanding the Target 5 area both along strike and across strike (Figure 5). Several of the mapped veins display good continuity, with some traceable for over 600 metres. The vein system is predominantly striking northwest-southeast with veins in the southwest of the target area dipping to the southwest and veins in the northeast dipping to the northeast (Figure 5). Target 5 veins mapped to date, are hosted in granodiorite and are situated at a lower elevation in the system at 650 900 m compared with the mineralised zones at Target 1 (900 1,150 m), Target 2 (1,500 - 1,700 m) and Target 6 (~1800 m). Figure 5. Channel sample results and vein traces in the Target 5 Area in the south west corner of the District Surface and underground channel sampling continues to return anomalous gold and silver values, with numerous assay results still pending. Complete sample results are presented in Table 2. Significant gold and silver Target 5 channel sampling highlights include: 0.50 m @ 27.9 g/t gold, 14 g/t silver (814239; surface, La Maquina) 0.30 m @ 9.60 g/t gold, 608 g/t silver (814194; surface, La Cucaracha) 0.20 m @ 2.02 g/t gold, 403 g/t silver (814198; surface, La Cucaracha) 0.50 m @ 3.54 g/t gold, 11.3 g/t silver (814212; surface, La Maquina) m @ 1.08 g/t gold, 162 g/t silver (814224; surface, La Maquina) 0.50 m @ 1.04 g/t gold, 158 g/t silver (814191; surface, La Cucaracha) 0.50 m @ 0.28 g/t gold, 143 g/t silver (814220; surface, La Maquina) Base metal sulphides have been observed in veins at La Maquina (Figure 5). 1.00m @ 0.09 g/t gold, 70 g/t silver, 1.22 % Pb, 1.83 % Zn (814260; surface, La Maquina) An exploration road to the Target 5 area to provide access for drill pads is complete. Drilling is expected to commence in Target 5 in early August, 2025. Mapping and sampling of Target 3, which includes the Jabali, Constancia, San Antonio, and Guadalupe mines, has revealed a network of mineralized veins (Figure 6). While many of these veins exhibit limited continuity, they occur in various orientations, with a dominant northwest strike over a cumulative strike length of 1km. Channel sampling from both surface and underground workings has returned numerous high-grade gold and silver values, highlighting the potential of the area. Notably, the Jabali mine hosts veins characterized by abundant amethyst, suggesting a distinct mineralogical signature that may be useful for further vectoring. Mapping and sampling will continue in the area to fully develop drill targeting. Complete sample results are presented in Table 2. Significant gold and silver Target 3 channel sampling highlights include: 0.70 m @ 1.41 g/t gold, 66.6 g/t silver (814587; surface, Jabali, T3) Figure 6. Channel sample results and vein traces in the Target 3 Area ABOUT THE COPALQUIN GOLD SILVER PROJECT The Copalquin mining district is located in Durango State, Mexico and covers an entire mining district of 70km2 containing several dozen historic gold and silver mines and workings, ten of which had notable production. The district is within the Sierra Madre Gold Silver Trend which extends north-south along the western side of Mexico and hosts many world-class gold and silver deposits. Multiple mineralisation events, young intrusives thought to be system-driving heat sources, widespread alteration together with extensive surface vein exposures and dozens of historic mine workings, identify the Copalquin mining district as a major epithermal centre for Gold and Silver. Within 15 months of drilling in the Copalquin District, Mithril delivered a maiden JORC mineral resource estimate demonstrating the high-grade gold and silver resource potential for the district. This maiden resource is detailed below (see ASX release 17 November 2021)^ and a NI 43-101 Technical Report filed on SEDAR+ Indicated 691 kt @5.43 g/t gold, 114 g/t silver for 121,000 oz gold plus 2,538,000 oz silver Inferred 1,725 kt @4.55 g/t gold, 152 g/t silver for 252,000 oz gold plus 8,414,000 oz silver (using a cut-off grade of 2.0 g/t AuEq*) 28.6% of the resource tonnage is classified as indicated Table 1. Mineral resource estimate El Refugio La Soledad using a cut-off grade of 2.0 g/t AuEq* Tonnes (kt) Tonnes (kt) Gold (g/t) Silver (g/t) Gold Eq.* (g/t) Gold (koz) Silver (koz) Gold Eq.* (koz) El Refugio Indicated 691 5.43 114.2 7.06 121 2,538 157 Inferred 1,447 4.63 137.1 6.59 215 6,377 307 La Soledad Indicated - - - - - - - Inferred 278 4.12 228.2 7.38 37 2,037 66 Total Indicated 691 5.43 114.2 7.06 121 2,538 157 Inferred 1,725 4.55 151.7 6.72 252 8,414 372 * In determining the gold equivalent (AuEq.) grade for reporting, a gold:silver price ratio of 70:1 was determined, using the formula: AuEq grade = Au grade + ((Ag grade/70) x (Ag recovery/Au recovery)). The metal prices used to determine the 70:1 ratio are the cumulative average prices for 2021: gold USD1,798.34 and silver: USD25.32 (actual is 71:1) from kitco.com. At this early stage, the metallurgical recoveries were assumed to be equal (93%). Subsequent preliminary metallurgical test work produced recoveries of 91% for silver and 96% for gold (ASX Announcement 25 February 2022) and these will be used when the resource is updated in the future. In the Companys opinion there is reasonable potential for both gold and silver to be extracted and sold. ^ The information in this report that relates to Mineral Resources or Ore Reserves is based on information provided in the following ASX announcement: 17 Nov 2021 - MAIDEN JORC RESOURCE 529,000 OUNCES @ 6.81G/T (AuEq*), which includes the full JORC MRE report, also available on the Mithril Resources Limited Website. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original market announcement and that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the relevant market announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed. The company confirms that the form and context in which the Competent Persons findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcement. Mining study (conceptual) and metallurgical test work supports the development of the El Refugio-La Soledad resource with conventional underground mining methods indicated as being appropriate and with high gold-silver recovery to produce metal on-site with conventional processing. Mithril is currently exploring in the Copalquin District to expand the resource footprint, demonstrating its multi-million-ounce gold and silver potential. Mithril has an exclusive option to purchase 100% interest in the Copalquin mining concessions by paying US$10M on or any time before 7 August 2028. Released with the authority of the Board. For further information contact: John Skeet Managing Director and CEO This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. +61 435 766 809 NIKLI COMMUNICATIONS Corporate Communications This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Competent Persons Statement - JORC The information in this announcement that relates to metallurgical test results, mineral processing and project development and study work has been compiled by Mr John Skeet who is Mithrils CEO and Managing Director. Mr Skeet is a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. This is a Recognised Professional Organisation (RPO) under the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Code. Mr Skeet has sufficient experience of relevance to the styles of mineralisation and the types of deposits under consideration, and to the activities undertaken, to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. Mr Skeet consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on information in the form and context in which it appears. The Australian Securities Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or adequacy of this release. The information in this announcement that relates to sampling techniques and data, exploration results and geological interpretation for Mithrils Mexican project, has been compiled by Mr Patrick Loury who is Mithrils Project Consultant. Mr Loury is a member of the American Institute of Professional Geologists and a Certified Professional Geologist (CPG). This is a Recognised Professional Organisation (RPO) under the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Code. Mr Loury has sufficient experience of relevance to the styles of mineralisation and the types of deposits under consideration, and to the activities undertaken, to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. Mr Loury consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on information in the form and context in which it appears. The information in this announcement that relates to Mineral Resources is reported by Mr Rodney Webster, Principal Geologist at AMC Consultants Pty Ltd (AMC), who is a Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. The report was peer reviewed by Andrew Proudman, Principal Consultant at AMC. Mr Webster is acting as the Competent Person, as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, for the reporting of the Mineral Resource estimate. A site visit was carried out by Jose Olmedo a geological consultant with AMC, in September 2021 to observe the drilling, logging, sampling and assay database. Mr Webster consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on information in the form and context in which it appears The Australian Securities Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or adequacy of this release. Qualified Persons NI 43-101 Scientific and technical information in this Report has been reviewed and approved by Mr John Skeet (FAUSIMM, CP) Mithrils Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. Mr John Skeet is a qualified person within the meaning of NI 43-101. Table 2. Complete list of surface and underground sample sssay results reported in this announcement Sample Easting Northing Elevation Sample Type Target Location Width m Au ppm Ag ppm AuEq* ppm 814581 293074 2824214 1504 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.50 0.04 1.1 0.06 814582 293140 2824278 1531 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.65 0.06 1.5 0.08 814583 293140 2824278 1531 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.75 0.19 3.9 0.25 814584 293140 2824278 1531 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.60 0.04 1.2 0.06 814585 293140 2824278 1531 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.70 0.03 1.8 0.06 814586 293162 2824334 1535 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.50 0.03 0.7 0.04 814587 292343 2824643 1360 Surface 3 El Jabali W 0.70 1.41 66.6 2.36 814588 292338 2824634 1375 Surface 3 El Jabali W 0.95 0.95 26.7 1.33 814589 293098 2824309 1547 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.75 1.09 43.2 1.70 814591 293077 2824325 1561 Surface 3 Los Riscos 0.50 0.03 1.3 0.05 814185 287837 2822605 772 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.02 3.2 0.07 814186 287787 2822602 674 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.70 0.22 24.1 0.57 814188 287786 2822602 851 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.02 814190 287667 2822626 781 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.03 4.6 0.10 814191 287637 2822630 804 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 1.04 158.0 3.30 814192 287709 2822521 838 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.04 3.2 0.08 814194 287703 2822518 832 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.30 9.60 608.0 18.29 814195 287846 2822431 851 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.30 0.05 14.0 0.25 814196 287858 2822426 811 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.30 0.07 30.5 0.51 814197 287875 2822417 808 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.30 0.20 23.7 0.54 814198 287894 2822412 823 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.20 2.02 403.0 7.78 814199 287901 2822405 812 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.06 4.6 0.12 814201 287968 2822344 809 Surface 5 La Cucaracha 0.50 0.01 1.0 0.03 814536 292798 2823755 1230 Surface 3 Target 3 1.00 0.04 0.6 0.05 814537 292798 2823756 1230 Surface 3 Target 3 1.00 0.01 0.5 0.02 814538 292797 2823757 1230 Surface 3 Target 3 1.20 0.01 0.5 0.01 814539 292860 2823830 1249 Surface 3 Target 3 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.01 814541 292862 2823828 1250 Surface 3 Target 3 0.90 0.01 0.5 0.01 814542 292862 2823826 1250 Surface 3 Target 3 0.60 0.02 0.5 0.03 814543 292653 2823836 1255 Surface 3 Target 3 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.01 814544 292383 2823798 1259 Surface 3 Target 3 0.60 0.09 15.6 0.31 814545 292054 2823921 1207 Surface 3 Target 3 1.00 0.01 2.0 0.04 814546 292067 2823936 1206 Surface 3 Target 3 0.50 0.08 16.1 0.31 814202 288943 2822716 729 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.90 0.17 6.5 0.26 814203 288939 2822726 684 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.05 0.6 0.06 814204 288938 2822725 684 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 1.1 0.03 814205 288938 2822724 684 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 0.9 0.03 814206 288937 2822724 684 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 0.5 0.02 814207 288947 2822800 711 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.02 814208 288955 2822759 731 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.02 0.5 0.03 814209 288957 2822758 731 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.02 814210 288947 2822759 745 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.70 0.01 1.1 0.02 814211 288947 2822758 745 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.70 0.01 1.2 0.03 814212 288951 2822842 747 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 3.54 11.3 3.70 814213 288957 2822851 745 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.20 2.6 0.23 814214 288821 2822970 732 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.01 814215 288819 2822963 729 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.03 2.6 0.07 814216 288742 2822997 762 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.02 6.0 0.10 814217 288720 2822992 733 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.03 5.1 0.10 814218 288799 2822898 743 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.02 0.5 0.03 814219 288802 2822900 743 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.8 0.02 814220 288802 2822912 723 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.28 143.0 2.32 814221 288813 2822915 712 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 1.0 0.03 814223 288814 2822916 712 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 0.6 0.02 814224 288814 2822917 712 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 1.08 162.0 3.39 814226 288817 2822935 658 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.86 93.3 2.20 814228 288815 2822939 720 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.07 16.2 0.30 814229 288816 2822940 720 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.16 26.2 0.54 814230 288816 2822940 720 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.80 0.01 2.4 0.05 814231 288798 2822807 635 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.02 1.6 0.04 814232 288898 2822786 727 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.06 11.4 0.22 814233 288900 2822774 686 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.60 0.05 1.6 0.07 814234 288631 2823197 822 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.02 0.5 0.02 814235 288512 2823155 825 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 2.5 0.04 814236 288599 2823120 799 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.02 814237 288602 2823113 798 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.70 0.01 0.5 0.02 814238 288577 2823092 780 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 0.6 0.02 814239 288575 2823091 780 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 27.90 14.0 28.10 814240 288559 2823031 765 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 0.7 0.02 814241 288579 2822957 749 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.17 3.5 0.22 814242 289183 2822777 796 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.05 1.2 0.07 814243 289185 2822775 796 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.50 0.01 1.3 0.03 814244 289205 2822744 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.08 6.2 0.16 814245 289206 2822745 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 1.1 0.03 814246 289206 2822746 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 2.1 0.04 814247 289207 2822747 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 2.7 0.06 814248 289207 2822747 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 3.0 0.05 814249 289208 2822748 795 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 0.8 0.02 814251 289204 2822754 794 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 1.0 0.03 814253 289205 2822755 794 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 0.5 0.02 814254 289205 2822756 794 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.03 1.0 0.05 814255 289216 2822717 781 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 6.2 0.10 814256 289215 2822716 781 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.01 3.7 0.06 814257 289215 2822715 781 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.02 15.8 0.24 814258 289213 2822698 779 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.90 0.05 10.4 0.20 814259 289213 2822698 779 Surface 5 La Maquina 0.90 0.07 16.3 0.30 814260 289237 2822676 811 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.09 70.0 1.09 814261 289239 2822674 811 Surface 5 La Maquina 1.00 0.04 11.9 0.21 814547 292075 2823871 1225 Surface 3 2L2 1.00 0.01 0.7 0.02 814548 292076 2823871 1225 Surface 3 2L2 1.00 0.01 0.6 0.02 814549 292077 2823870 1225 Surface 3 2L2 0.80 0.01 0.5 0.01 814651 292085 2823868 1230 Surface 3 2L2 1.00 0.01 0.5 0.01 814652 292086 2823868 1231 Surface 3 2L2 1.00 0.01 0.5 0.02 814653 292086 2823868 1232 Surface 3 2L2 0.50 0.01 0.5 0.02 814654 292072 2823896 1210 Surface 3 2L2 1.00 0.02 0.6 0.02 814655 292025 2823829 1213 Surface 3 2L2 0.80 0.01 1.6 0.03 814656 292050 2823801 1239 Surface 3 2L2 0.50 0.01 1.0 0.03 814657 294623 2824704 1785 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.80 7.11 303.0 11.44 814658 294623 2824703 1785 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 14.35 584.0 22.69 814659 294620 2824704 1784 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.90 4.50 94.2 5.85 814660 294609 2824707 1791 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 8.28 77.0 9.38 814661 294609 2824707 1792 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.70 0.48 19.4 0.76 814662 294609 2824708 1792 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 1.10 0.21 4.0 0.27 814663 294609 2824709 1791 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 1.45 76.6 2.54 814664 294612 2824709 1790 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.70 9.06 421.0 15.07 814665 294610 2824709 1793 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.70 23.20 755.0 33.99 814666 294618 2824708 1796 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.50 0.32 15.9 0.55 814667 294617 2824708 1797 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.50 0.09 4.8 0.15 814668 294617 2824708 1797 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 1.20 0.07 2.1 0.10 814669 294617 2824707 1797 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.50 8.42 188.0 11.11 814670 294617 2824706 1797 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.50 0.34 15.0 0.55 814671 294611 2824708 1796 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.60 0.40 16.1 0.63 814672 294610 2824708 1796 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 1.00 1.04 64.1 1.96 814673 294609 2824708 1796 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.70 57.80 2120.0 88.09 814674 294606 2824708 1796 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.80 17.40 603.0 26.01 814676 294587 2824714 1788 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 1.00 0.09 6.0 0.18 814677 294588 2824714 1788 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 1.00 0.16 8.0 0.28 814678 294590 2824713 1788 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 1 0.50 0.40 38.1 0.95 814679 294569 2824693 1771 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 2.18 56.9 2.99 814681 294568 2824693 1171 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 28.10 233.0 31.43 814682 294601 2824710 1785 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.90 0.13 3.7 0.18 814683 294600 2824710 1786 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.50 3.94 196.0 6.74 814684 294600 2824709 1786 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 1.00 0.21 4.6 0.28 814685 294591 2824712 1787 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.55 7.68 437.0 13.92 814686 294584 2824716 1787 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.60 0.20 9.8 0.34 814687 294584 2824716 1787 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.70 1.78 102.0 3.23 814688 294584 2824715 1787 Underground 6 Santa Cruz Nivel 2 0.60 0.50 26.6 0.88 JORC Code, 2012 Edition Table 1 Section 1. Sampling Techniques and Data Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Sampling techniques Nature and quality of sampling (eg cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of sampling. Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representativity and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used. Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public Report. In cases where industry standard work has been done this would be relatively simple (eg reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire assay). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (eg submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information. Drill core samples are cut lengthwise with a diamond saw. Intervals are nominally 1 m but may vary between 0.5 m to 1.5 m based on geologic criteria. The same side of the core is always sent to sample (left side of saw). Reported intercepts are calculated as either potentially underground mineable (100m down hole) or as potentially open-pit mineable (near surface). Potentially underground mineable intercepts are calculated as length weighted averages of material greater than or equal to 1 g/t AuEQ_70 allowing up to 2m of internal dilution. Potentially open-pit mineable intercepts are calculated as length weighted averages of material greater than or equal to 0.25 g/t AuEQ_70 allowing for up to 2m of internal dilution. Rock Sawn Channel samples underground and surface are collected with the assistance of a handheld portable saw. The channels are 2.5 to 3cm deep and 6-8 cm wide along continuous lines oriented perpendicular to the mineralized structure. The samples are as representative as possible Rock Sawn Channel surface samples were surveyed with a Handheld GPS then permanently mark with an aluminium tag and red colour spray across the strike of the outcrop over 1 metre. Samples are as representative as possible Rock Sawn Channel underground samples were located after a compass and tape with the mine working having a surveyed control point at the portal, then permanently marked with an aluminium tag and red colour spray oriented perpendicular to the mineralized structure. Samples are as representative as possible Soil sampling has been carried out by locating pre-planned points by handheld GPS and digging to below the first colour-change in the soil (or a maximum of 50 cm). In the arid environment there is a 1 10 cm organic horizon and a 10 30 cm B horizon above the regolith. Samples are sieved to -80 mesh in the field. Samples are collected on a 20 m x 50 m grid or every 20 m on NS lines 50 m apart. These samples are considered representative of the medium being sampled and lines are appropriately oriented to the nearly EW structural trend. Drilling techniques Drill type (eg core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details (eg core diameter, triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc). Drilling is done with MP500 man-portable core rigs capable of drilling HQ size core to depths of 350-400m (depending on ground conditions), reducing to NQ size core for greater depths. Core is recovered in a standard tube. Drill sample recovery Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results assessed. Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the samples. Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse material. Drill recovery is measured based on measured length of core divided by length of drill run. Recovery in holes CDH-001 through CDH-025 and holes CDH-032 through CDH-077 was always above 90% in the mineralized zones. Detailed core recovery data are maintained in the project database. Holes CDH-026 through CDH-031 had problems with core recovery in highly fractured, clay rich breccia zones. There is no adverse relationship between recovery and grade identified to date. Logging Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies. Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel, etc) photography. The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged. Geotechnical and geological logging of the drill core takes place on racks in the company core shed. Core samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies. Core logging is both qualitative or quantitative in nature. Photos are taken of each box of core before samples are cut. Photos of cut core intervals are taken after sampling. Core is wetted to improve visibility of features in the photos. All core has been logged and photographed. Rock sawn channel samples are marked, measured and photographed at location Soil samples are recorded at location, logged and described Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken. If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc and whether sampled wet or dry. For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique. Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representativity of samples. Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in situ material collected, including for instance results for field duplicate/second-half sampling. Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled. Core is sawn and half core is taken for sample. Samples are prepared using ALS Minerals Prep-31 crushing, splitting and pulverizing. This is appropriate for the type of deposit being explored. Visual review to assure that the cut core is of the core is performed to assure representativity of samples. Crushed core duplicates are split/collected by the laboratory and submitted for assay (1 in 30 samples) Sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled. Rock sawn channel samples and soil samples are prepared using ALS Minerals Prep-31 crushing, splitting and pulverizing. This is appropriate for the type of deposit being explored. Quality of assay data and laboratory tests The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or total. For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc, the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc. Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks, duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have been established. Samples are assayed for gold using ALS Minerals Au-AA25 method a 30 g fire assay with an AA finish. This is considered a total assay technique. Samples are assayed for silver using ALS Minerals ME-ICP61 method. Over limits are assayed by AgOG63 and AgGRAV21. These are considered a total assay technique. Standards and blanks are inserted at a rate of one per every 25 samples and one per every 40 samples, respectively. Pulp duplicate sampling is undertaken for 3% of all samples (see above). External laboratory checks will be conducted as sufficient samples are collected. Levels of accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have not yet been established. Certified Reference Materials Rock Labs and CDN CRMs have been used throughout the project including, low (~2 g/t Au), medium (~9 g/t Au) and high (~18g/t Au and ~40 g/t Au). Results are automatically checked on data import into the BEDROCK database to fall within 2 standard deviations of the expected value. Samples with significant amounts of observed visible gold are also assayed by AuSCR21, a screen assay that analyses gold in both the milled pulp and in the residual oversize from pulverization. This has been done for holes CDH-075 and CDH-077. Verification of sampling and assaying The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel. The use of twinned holes. Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols. Discuss any adjustment to assay data. The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel has not been conducted. A re-assay program of pulp duplicates is currently in progress. MTH has drilled one twin hole. Hole CDH-072, reported in the 15/6/2021 announcement, is a twin of holes EC-002 and UC-03. Results are comparable. Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols are maintained in the companys core facility. Assay data have not been adjusted other than applying length weighted averages to reported intercepts. Location of data points Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral Resource estimation. Specification of the grid system used. Quality and adequacy of topographic control. Drill collar coordinates are currently located by handheld GPS. Precise survey of hole locations is planned. Downhole surveys of hole deviation are recorded using a Reflex Multishot tool for all holes. A survey measurement is first collected at 15 meters downhole, and then every 50 meters until the end of the hole. Locations for holes CDH-001 through CDH-048 and CDH-051 through CDH-148 have been surveyed with differential GPS to a sub 10 cm precision. Hole CDH-005 was not surveyed UTM/UPS WGS 84 zone 13 N High quality topographic control from LiDAR imagery and orthophotos covers the entire project area. Data spacing and distribution Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results. Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied. Whether sample compositing has been applied. Data spacing is appropriate for the reporting of Exploration Results. The Resource estimation re-printed in this announcement was originally released on 17 Nov 2021 No sample compositing has been applied. Orientation of data in relation to geological structure Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the deposit type. If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material. Cut lines are marked on the core by the geologists to assure that the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures. This is reasonably well observed in the core and is appropriate to the deposit type. The relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised structures is not considered to have introduced a sampling bias. Rock sawn channel samples are cut perpendicular to the observed vein orientation wherever possible Sample security The measures taken to ensure sample security. Samples are stored in a secure core storage facility until they are shipped off site by small aircraft and delivered directly to ALS Global. Audits or reviews The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data. A review with spot checks was conducted by AMC in conjunction with the resource estimate published 17 Nov 2021. Results were satisfactory to AMC. Section 2. Reporting of Exploration Results Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Mineral tenement and land tenure status Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental settings. The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the area. Concessions at Copalquin No. Concession Concession Title number Area (Ha) Location 1 LA SOLEDAD 52033 6 Tamazula, Durango, Mexico 2 EL COMETA 164869 36 Tamazula, Durango, Mexico 3 SAN MANUEL 165451 36 Tamazula, Durango, Mexico 4 COPALQUIN 178014 20 Tamazula, Durango, Mexico 5 EL SOL 236130 6,000 Tamazula, Durango and Badiraguato, Sinaloa, Mexico 6 EL CORRAL 236131 907.3243 Tamazula, Durango and Badiraguato, Sinaloa, Mexico Exploration done by other parties Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties. Previous exploration by Bell Coast Capital Corp. and UC Resources was done in the late 1990s and in 2005 2007. Work done by these companies is historic and non-JORC compliant. Mithril uses these historic data only as a general guide and will not incorporate work done by these companies in resource modelling. Work done by the Mexican government and by IMMSA and will be used for modelling of historic mine workings which are now inaccessible (void model) Geology Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation. Copalquin is a low sulfidation epithermal gold-silver deposit hosted in andesite. This deposit type is common in the Sierra Madre Occidental of Mexico and is characterized by quartz veins and stockworks surrounded by haloes of argillic (illite/smectite) alteration. Veins have formed as both low-angle semi-continuous lenses parallel to the contact between granodiorite and andesite and as tabular veins in high-angle normal faults. Vein and breccia thickness has been observed up to 30 meters wide with average widths on the order of 3 to 5 meters. The overall strike length of the semi-continuous mineralized zone from El Gallo to Refugio, Cometa, Los Pinos, Los Reyes, La Montura to Constancia is almost 6 kilometres. The southern area from Apomal to San Manuel and to Las Brujas-El Peru provides additional exploration potential up to 5km. Drill hole Information A summary of all information material to the understanding of the exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for all Material drill holes: easting and northing of the drill hole collar elevation or RL (Reduced Level elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole collar dip and azimuth of the hole down hole length and interception depth hole length. If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this is the case. No drilling results in this announcement Data aggregation methods In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (eg cutting of high grades) and cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated. Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade results and longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations should be shown in detail. The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly stated. Potentially underground mineable intercepts are calculated as length weighted averages of material greater than or equal to 1 g/t AuEQ_70 allowing up to 2m of internal dilution. Potentially open-pit mineable intercepts are calculated as length weighted averages of material greater than or equal to 0.25 g/t AuEQ_70 allowing for up to 2m of internal dilution. No upper cut-off is applied to reporting intercepts. Length weighted averaging is used to report intercepts. The example of CDH-002 is shown. The line of zero assays is a standard which was removed from reporting. Au Raw Ag raw Length (m) Au *length Ag *length 7.51 678 0.5 3.755 339 11.85 425 0.55 6.5175 233.75 0 0 0 0 0 0.306 16 1 0.306 16 0.364 31.7 1 0.364 31.7 3.15 241 0.5 1.575 120.5 10.7 709 0.5 5.35 354.5 15.6 773 0.5 7.8 386.5 From To Length Au gpt Ag gpt 4.55 25.667 1481.9 91.95 96.5 4.55 5.64 325.7 In determining the gold equivalent (AuEq.) grade for reporting, a gold:silver price ratio of 70:1 was determined, using the formula: AuEq grade = Au grade + ((Ag grade/70) x (Ag recovery/Au recovery)). The metal prices used to determine the 70:1 ratio are the cumulative average prices for 2021: gold USD1,798.34 and silver: USD25.32 (actual is 71:1) from kitco.com At this early stage, the metallurgical recoveries are assumed to be equal. Subsequent preliminary metallurgical test work produced recoveries of 91% for silver and 96% for gold (ASX Announcement 25 February 2022). For Rock Saw Channel Sampling and soil sampling in the Copalquin District, AgEq is determined using the formula: AgEq grade = Ag grade + ((Au grade x 70) x (Au recovery/Ag recovery)). The metal prices used to determine the 70:1 ratio are the cumulative average prices for 2021: gold USD1,798.34 and silver: USD25.32 (actual is 71:1) fromkitco.com At this early stage, the metallurgical recoveries for Au and Ag are assumed to be equal in the absence of metallurgical test work for Targets 2, 3, 4 and 5 material. In the Companys opinion there is reasonable potential for both gold and silver to be extracted and sold. Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of Exploration Results. If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its nature should be reported. If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect (eg down hole length, true width not known). True widths at Refugio between sections 120 and 1,000 vary according to the holes dip. Holes drilled at -50 degrees may be considered to have intercept lengths equal to true-widths, Holes drilled at -70 degrees had true widths approximately 92% of the reported intercept lengths and holes drilled at -90 degrees had true widths of 77% of the reported intercept lengths. True widths at La Soledad are not fully understood and downhole intercepts to date, are reported. At Las Brujas in Target 2, true widths are not yet known since we are still in the early stages of target definition. Rock sawn channel samples are cut perpendicular to the observed vein orientation wherever possible Diagrams Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported. These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views. See figures in announcement Balanced reporting Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration Results. All exploration results are reported for intercepts greater than or equal to 0.1 g/t gold equivalent (gold plus silver at 70:1 price ratio for gold:silver). Other substantive exploration data Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances. No additional exploration data are substantive at this time. Metallurgical test work on drill core composite made of crushed drill core from the El Refugio drill hole samples has been conducted. The samples used for the test work are representative of the material that makes up the majority of the Maiden Resource Estimate for El Refugio release on 17th November 2021. The test work was conducted by SGS laboratory Mexico using standard reagents and test equipment. Further work The nature and scale of planned further work (eg tests for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling). Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this information is not commercially sensitive. The Company drilled 148 diamond core holes from July 2020 to July 2022 for 32,712 m. The Company has stated its target to drill 40,000m from June 2024 until the end of 2025. Diagrams are included in the announcements and presentations showing the drill target areas within the Copalquin District 1 See About Copalquin Gold Silver Project section for JORC MRE details and AuEq. calculation. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Southern Silver Exploration Corp. (TSXV: SSV) (the "Company" or "Southern Silver") is pleased to report the closing of its previously announced "bought deal" private placement (the "Offering") for gross proceeds of C$15,000,000.39, which includes the exercise in full of the over-allotment option. Pursuant to the Offering, the Company sold 55,555,557 units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a price of C$0.27 per Unit (the "Offering Price"). Red Cloud Securities Inc. ("Red Cloud") acted as sole underwriter and bookrunner under the Offering. Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company (each, a "Common Share") and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each whole Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share (each, a "Warrant Share") at a price of C$0.40 at any time on or before July 29, 2028. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for the advancement of the Cerro Las Minitas project located in the state of Durango, Mexico as well as for working capital and general corporate purposes, as is more fully described in the Amended Offering Document (as defined herein). In accordance with National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions ("NI 45-106"), the Units were issued to Canadian purchasers pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of NI 45-106, as amended by Coordinated Blanket Order 45-935 Exemptions from Certain Conditions of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (the "Listed Issuer Financing Exemption"). The Common Shares and the Warrant Shares underlying the Units are immediately freely tradeable in accordance with applicable Canadian securities legislation if sold to purchasers resident in Canada. The Units were also sold in offshore jurisdictions and in the United States on a private placement basis pursuant to one or more exemptions from the registration requirements of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"). All securities not issued pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption are subject to a hold period in accordance with applicable Canadian securities law, expiring four months and one day following the issue date, being November 30, 2025. As consideration for their services, Red Cloud received aggregate cash fees of C$881,985.62 and 3,266,613 non-transferable common share purchase warrants (the "Broker Warrants"). Each Broker Warrant is exercisable into one Common Share at the Offering Price at any time on or before July 29, 2028. The Broker Warrants are subject to a hold period in accordance with applicable Canadian securities law, expiring four months and one day following the issue date, being November 30, 2025. There is an amended offering document dated July 16, 2025 (the "Amended Offering Document") related to the Offering that can be accessed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at: www.southernsilverexploration.com. The closing of the Offering remains subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. The securities referred to in this news release have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons, absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. About Southern Silver Exploration Corp. Southern Silver Exploration Corp. is an exploration and development company with a focus on the discovery of world-class mineral deposits either directly or through joint-venture relationships in mineral properties in major jurisdictions. Our specific emphasis is the 100% owned Cerro Las Minitas silver-lead-zinc project located in the heart of Mexico's Faja de Plata, which hosts multiple world-class mineral deposits such as Penasquito, Los Gatos, San Martin, Naica and Pitarrilla. We have assembled a team of highly experienced technical, operational and transactional professionals to support our exploration efforts in developing the Cerro Las Minitas project into a premier, high-grade, silver-lead-zinc mine. Located in the same State as the Cerro Las Minitas property is the newly acquired Nazas property. Our property portfolio also includes the Oro porphyry copper-gold project and the Hermanas gold-silver vein project where permitting applications for the conduct of a drill program is underway, both located in southern New Mexico, USA. On behalf of the Board of Directors "Lawrence Page" Lawrence Page, K.C. President & Director, Southern Silver Exploration Corp. Neither TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the final approval of the Offering from the TSXV and the intended use of proceeds of the Offering. These statements are based on a number of assumptions, including, but not limited to, general economic conditions, interest rates, commodity markets, regulatory and governmental approvals for the Company's projects, and the availability of financing for the Company's development projects on reasonable terms. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include the timing and receipt of government and regulatory approvals, and continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2025) - Omai Gold Mines Corp. (TSXV: OMG) (OTCQB: OMGGF) ("Omai Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce additional results from its ongoing 2025 drill program, focused on expanding the large Wenot deposit at the Company's 100%-owned Omai Gold Project in Guyana, South America. Assays are reported for 6 holes totaling 3,760 m drilled (Table 1). A total of 37 holes have been drilled to date this year, totalling 20,500m, having surpassed the original planned 15,000m program. Drilling continues to extend the known limits of gold mineralization at Wenot (Figure 1). Results are pending for an additional 8 holes. The long hole 25ODD-122, drilling across the Gilt Creek deposit, continues and is expected to test approximately 600m below the adjacent Wenot deposit. Highlights include: Hole 25ODD-119 (Figure 2) 31.70 g/t Au over 7.5m (17.36 g/t Au over 7.5m capped at 70 g/t Au) including 141.74 g/t Au over 1.5m 1.61 g/t Au over 36.4m including 3.26 g/t Au over 3.8m 3.89 g/t Au over 13.2m including 6.02 g/t Au over 2.5m (Figure 2) Hole 25ODD-124 (Figure 3) 1.76 g/t Au over 20.5m including 5.46 g/t Au over 3.5m 5.67 g/t Au over 4.5m (Figure 3) Hole 25ODD-124W (Figure 3) 2.64 g/t Au over 41.8m including 9.25 g/t Au over 4.5m 3.49 g/t Au over 17.4m including 6.31 g/t Au over 7.4m 5.66 g/t Au over 7.5m (Figure 3) Hole 25ODD-121 9.85 g/t Au over 2.9m 13.74 g/t Au over 3.5m 11.26 g/t Au over 2.0m 2.64 g/t Au over 12.4m Hole 25ODD-120 1.66 g/t Au over 37.8m 2.74 g/t Au over 9.4m 0.96 g/t Au over 17.2m Hole 25ODD-118 3.10 g/t Au over 14.5m 9.81 g/t Au over 2.5m Elaine Ellingham, President & CEO, commented: "Today's news marks another excellent batch of drill results from the resource expansion drill program at Wenot. Highlights in hole 25ODD-119 alone include 31.70 g/t Au over 7.5m (17.36 g/t Au capped), 1.61 g/t Au over 36.4m, and 3.89 g/t Au over 13.2m. These drill results again exemplify the multiple zones we have at Wenot, with each hole testing multiple gold zones across the wide Wenot shear corridor. The Wenot shear corridor reaches widths of 350-400m in the central portion and extends at least 2.5km along strike. We are confident that the limits of the Wenot mineralization are still open for further expansion. With the very successful drilling over the past 18 months, we believe it is in the best interest of our shareholders to update the Mineral Resource Estimate. Our Wenot mantra over the past year has been simple: "How Big Is It?". The 2024-25 Wenot resource expansion drill program has now exceeded 33,000m and the updated Mineral Resource Estimate is underway. Focused additional drilling at Wenot will continue in support of the updated Preliminary Economic Assessment that is expected 3 to 4 months following the updated MRE. Drilling is now shifting towards earlier-stage gold targets both along strike at Wenot and on certain near-surface zones where gold has already been identified. One drill has been mobilized to our Blueberry Hill target area and a second to the Camp Zone. The objective is to identify and quantify near-surface economic satellite deposits that could contribute to early mining. Concurrently, our exciting hole 25ODD-122, targeting both the Gilt Creek deposit and the Wenot depth potential, continues to progress well, and recently passed the 1,550m downhole mark (see News Release May 23, 2025). Drilling has been slow but steady." Details on the currently reported holes are as follows: Hole 25ODD-119 (Figure 2) was drilled from the north side of Wenot approximately 50m west of holes 24ODD-092 and 25ODD-101, both of which intersected broad zones of high-grade gold mineralization within the most prolific historically-mined zone known as the "Dike Corridor". Within the Dike Corridor, Hole 25ODD-119 intersected nine gold zones, the best ones being 3.57 g/t Au over 5.4m, 3.89 g/t Au over 13.2m (including 21.9 g/t Au over 1.2m) and 31.70 g/t Au over 7.5m (which includes 141.74 g/t Au over 1.5m). These zones were intersected at a vertical depth of approximately 280m and extend to a depth of 380m, however older shallower holes show similarly impressive grades and widths within this Dike Corridor. The correlation and extent of these multiple gold zones is best illustrated in Figure 2. The interval assaying 31.7 g/t Au over 7.5m corresponds well to 50m up-dip interval of 3.83 g/t Au over 18.8m in hole 25ODD-101 and the 50m down-dip interval of 4.48 g/t Au over 57.0m in hole 24ODD-092. Also significant, Hole 119 continued on to intersect 1.61 g/t Au over 36.3m (including 4.60 g/t Au over 3.0m) in the central quartz feldspar porphyry dike "CQFP" at a vertical depth of approximately 450m. This CQFP was emplaced along the contact between the volcanic rocks on the north and the sedimentary sequence of rocks to the south. This mineralized QFP corresponds well with the 50m up-dip interval of 2.13 g/t Au over 48.5m (including 10.34 g/t Au over 3.3m) in hole 25ODD-101. All-in-all, hole 119 was spectacular and together with neighbouring holes -092 and -101 show the very significant potential of Wenot to host wide, high-grade zones within the larger resource. Important to note that all of these intervals are below the 2024 MRE pit shell and can be expected to contribute to the upcoming MRE. Hole 25ODD-124 (Figure 3) was drilled from the south side of Central Wenot across from Hole 25ODD-111 recently drilled from the north, and between holes 25ODD-120 & 121 drilled from the north and also reported in this release. Hole 124 targeted the Dike Corridor in an area 200m below the 2024 MRE and PEA pit shell. It intersected 5.67 g/t Au over 4.5m in the very persistent Southern Porphyry Dike (SPOR), a unit that can be traced the full strike essentially marking the southern extent of the main Wenot Shear Corridor. Often hosting visible gold, this is a particularly high-grade example of this zone. The SPOR occurs within the sedimentary sequence, approximately 100m south of the main contact. The CQFP was not sampled in this hole, due to the proximity of the wedged hole 124W. Hole 104 then was sampled through the Dike Corridor where it intersected 1.76 g/t Au over 20.5m, 0.54 g/t Au over 12.0m, and 0.70 g/t Au over 9.9m. Hole 25ODD-124 was wedged at 350m downhole in order to drill an up-dip gap area approximately 50-75m from the impressive 68.7m interval grading 3.16 g/t Au from hole 24ODD-085. The wedged Hole -124W went on to intersect the CQFP which assayed 3.49 g/t Au over 17.4m, including 6.31 g/t Au over 7.4m. Further downhole, in the Dike Corridor, the hole intersected 5.66 g/t Au over 7.5m and 2.64 g/t Au over 41.8m, including 9.25 g/t Au over 4.5m, and 0.76 g/t Au over 15.5m, starting at a vertical depth of 375m from surface and approximately 100m below the 2024 PEA pit shell. The nearby Hole 124 intersected equivalent zones within the Dike Corridor, including 1.76 g/t Au over 20.5m. Hole 25ODD-120 was drilled from the north side of Central Wenot designed to test the Dike Corridor at depth below hole 24ODD-085. The hole was not intended to extend to the central QFP zone that was already tested to a depth of 465m where it assayed 2.02 g/t Au over 18.7m. In 2024, Hole -085 intersected 3.16 g/t Au over 68.7m, including 6.65 g/t Au over 29.9m within the Dike Corridor (News Release dated December 4, 2024). Hole -120 was to test 50m below those intervals. It intersected at least 6 intervals of gold mineralization within the Dike Corridor and although a 68m interval was not intersected, the downdip extension did intersect 2.74 g/t Au over 9.4m, 9.29 g/t Au over 1.7m, 1.26 g/t Au over 11.0m, and 1.66 g/t Au over 37.8m. These intervals represent a cumulative 59.9m of gold mineralization (not continuous) within the Dike Corridor, approximately 150m below the 2024 PEA pit shell. The hole also intersected 0.96 g/t Au over 17.2m in the northern extreme of the Dike Corridor, within the volcanics. Hole 25ODD-121 was drilled from the north side of Central Wenot behind hole 21ODD-025 and between recently drilled holes 24ODD-091 (50m to the east) and 25ODD-111 (50m to the west). Hole 25ODD-121 intersected several intervals of gold mineralization approximately 100m below Hole 21ODD-025, including 9.85 g/t Au over 2.9m and 13.74 g/t Au over 3.5m,11.26 g/t Au over 2.0m and other minor zones. Hole 121 then intersected 2.64 g/t Au over 12.4m at the CQFP at a vertical depth of 400m from surface, approximately 150m below the 2024 PEA pit shell. Further downhole, 3.30 g/t Au over 5.3m was intersected within the southern sediments. Hole 25ODD-118 was drilled about km east from the above holes, from the north side towards the eastern end of Wenot, in an area less drilled. It targeted 100-200m down-dip from the 2024 MRE and PEA pit shell. At a relatively shallow vertical depth of approximately 200m, Hole 25ODD-118 intersected 1.23 g/t Au over 10.5m within the volcanics to the north that could be the extension of one of the known splays. Within the Dike Corridor, wide diorite dikes were encountered with several narrow felsic dikes. Only minor gold zones were intersected in the Dike Corridor in this hole, but included 2.61 g/t Au over 2.6m and 1.73 g/t Au over 4.0m. Further downhole, the CQFP hosted various intervals of gold mineralization including 0.55 g/t Au over 6.0m and 1.43 g/t Au over 6.0m. In the southern sedimentary sequence, the hole intersected 3.10 g/t Au over 14.5m, 5.2 g/t Au over 2.4m and then bottomed in 9.81 g/t Au over 2.5m, at a vertical depth of approximately 450m. Table 1. Recent Wenot Drill Results* DDH FROM (m) TO (m) INTERVAL (m) GRADE (g/t Au) 25ODD-118 297.0 307.5 10.5 1.23 439.0 441.6 2.6 2.61 472.0 476.0 4.0 1.73 499.0 500.4 1.4 1.55 601.4 607.4 6.0 0.55 611.0 617.0 6.0 1.43 625.2 627.6 2.4 5.20 636.5 651.0 14.5 3.10 676.0 678.5 2.5 9.81 25ODD-119 183.1 185.5 2.4 1.64 401.0 406.4 5.4 3.57 417.8 431.0 **13.2 3.89 Including 423.5 426.0 2.5 6.02 And including 429.8 431.0 1.3 21.90 446.0 447.1 1.1 1.20 456.3 457.3 1.0 2.40 495.5 503.0 7.5 31.70 Including 499.5 501.0 1.5 141.74 511.5 513.0 1.5 1.71 521.5 524.5 3.0 1.47 534.5 537.5 3.0 1.49 544.7 549.0 4.4 0.93 566.0 567.5 1.5 1.02 622.9 659.3 36.4 1.61 Including 634.0 637.7 3.8 3.26 And including 644.5 647.5 3.0 4.60 676.5 680.5 4.0 1.59 25ODD-120 285.0 286.4 1.4 3.77 432.0 449.2 17.2 0.96 Including 445.1 449.2 4.1 2.02 509.8 511.3 1.5 1.41 571.0 580.4 9.4 2.74 590.8 598.6 7.9 0.41 603.0 614.0 11.0 1.26 632.2 670.0 **37.8 1.66 25ODD-121 154.7 156.0 1.3 2.05 227.0 228.5 1.5 1.01 333.0 335.9 2.9 9.85 420.5 424.0 3.5 13.74 515.7 516.3 0.6 1.16 552.0 554.0 2.0 11.26 560.2 561.5 1.3 2.08 573.3 576.0 2.7 2.17 579.6 582.0 2.4 0.51 595.5 607.9 12.4 2.64 713.2 718.5 5.3 3.30 Including 716.0 718.5 2.5 6.67 25ODD-124 266.5 271.0 4.5 5.67 287.5 289.0 1.5 1.53 570.8 591.3 20.5 1.76 Including 576.0 579.5 3.5 5.46 601.0 613.0 12.0 0.54 623.5 633.4 9.9 0.70 25ODD-124W 415.5 417.0 1.5 1.29 440.1 457.5 17.4 3.49 Including 443.8 451.2 7.4 6.31 518.0 525.5 7.5 5.66 533.0 574.8 **41.8 2.64 Including 555.9 560.4 4.5 9.25 598.0 613.5 15.5 0.76 *True widths vary as mineralization at Wenot is generally hosted within stockwork vein systems with alteration halos, with an estimated true width range of 70-90%. Cut-off grade 0.30 g/t Au with maximum 3.0m internal dilution is applied. **A maximum 5.0m internal dilution is applied. Grades are uncapped unless otherwise noted. Figure 1. Omai Plan Map Showing Drill Hole Locations Figure 2. Cross-section for Hole 25ODD-119 Figure 3. Cross-section for Holes 25ODD-120 and 25ODD-124/124W Table 2. Drill Hole Coordinates Hole ID Azimuth (degrees) Inclination (degrees) Easting Northing Depth (m) Status 25ODD-114 176 -57 304790 602030 700.0 Pending 25ODD-115 355 -52 305429 601248 106.5 Previously Reported 25ODD-116 356 -50 304487 601468 571.6 Previously Reported 25ODD-117 176 -50 305429 601849 646.0 Pending 25ODD-118 176 -53 305928 601800 541.0 Reporting 25ODD-119 175 -54 305028 601981 356.0 Reporting 25ODD-120 176 -54 305182 602067 688.0 Reporting 25ODD-121 176 -54 305289 601928 739.7 Reporting 25ODD-122 142 -60 304648 602870 Drilling 25ODD-123 357 -50 304533 601522 109.5 Pending 25ODD-124 357 -54 305233 601282 644.0 Reporting 25ODD-124W 357 -54 305233 601282 656.0 Reporting 1NI 43-101 Technical Report dated May 21, 2024 "UPDATED MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE AND PRELIMINARY ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT OF THE OMAI GOLD PROPERTY, POTARO MINING DISTRICT NO.2, GUYANA" was prepared by Eugene Puritch, P.Eng., FEC, CET, President of P&E Mining Consultants Inc. is available on SEDAR+ and on the Company's website. It includes a Wenot resource of 834,000 indicated ounces of gold averaging 1.48 g/t Au within 17.6 million tonnes and 1,614,000 inferred ounces of gold averaging 1.99 g/t Au within 25.2 million tonnes, and the adjacent Gilt Creek resource of 1,151,000 indicated ounces of gold averaging 3.22 g/t Au within 11.1 million tonnes and 665,000 inferred ounces of gold averaging 3.35 g/t Au within 6.2 million tonnes. 2 Past production at the Omai Mine (1993-2005) is summarized in several Cambior Inc. documents available on SEDARplus.ca, including March 31, 2006 AIF and news release August 3, 2006. Quality Control Omai maintains an internal QA/QC program to ensure sampling and analysis of all exploration work is conducted in accordance with best practices. Certified reference materials, blanks and duplicates are entered at regular intervals. Samples are sealed in plastic bags. Drill core samples (halved-core) were shipped to ActLabs and some batches to MSALABS, both certified laboratories in Georgetown Guyana, respecting the best chain of custody practices. At the laboratory, samples are dried, crushed up to 80% passing 2 mm, riffle split (250 g), and pulverized to 95% passing 105 m, including cleaner sand. Fifty grams of pulverized material is then fire assayed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AA). Initial assays with results above 3.0 ppm gold are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish. For samples with visible gold two separate 250g or 500g pulverized samples are prepared, with 50 grams of each fire assayed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, with assays above 3.0 ppm gold being re-assayed using a gravimetric finish. Certified reference materials and blanks meet with QA/QC specifications. Qualified Person Elaine Ellingham is a Qualified Person (QP) under National Instrument 43-101 "Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects" and has approved the technical information contained in this news release. Ms. Ellingham is not considered to be independent for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101. ABOUT OMAI GOLD Omai Gold Mines Corp. is a Canadian gold exploration and development company focused on rapidly expanding the two orogenic gold deposits at its 100%-owned Omai Gold Project in mining-friendly Guyana, South America. The Company has established the Omai Gold Project as one of the fastest growing and well-endowed gold camps in the prolific Guiana Shield greenstone belt. In February 2024 the Company announced an updated NI 43-101 Mineral Resource Estimate1 ("MRE") of 29 million tonnes grading 2.15 g/t Au and containing 2.0 million ounces of gold (Indicated) and 31 million tonnes grading 2.26 g/t Au and containing 2.3 million ounces (Inferred), comprised of both the Wenot open pit deposit and the adjacent Gilt Creek underground deposit. This was followed by an initial baseline Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") in April 2024, which contemplated an open pit-only development scenario and included only 45% of the Omai Gold Project MRE. Subsequent to the 2024 MRE, the Company has been aggressively drilling to expand gold resources at the Wenot deposit and has identified additional wide zones of high-grade gold mineralization. In 2025 Omai Gold plans to continue its impactful drill programs, announce an updated and expanded MRE, and complete an updated PEA which would include an expanded Wenot open pit deposit and an underground mining scenario at Gilt Creek. The Omai Gold Mine produced over 3.7 million ounces of gold from 1993 to 20052, ceasing operations when gold was below US$400 per ounce. The Omai site benefits from much existing infrastructure and will soon be connected to the two largest cities in Guyana, Georgetown and Linden, via paved road. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the timing of completion of exploration, trenching and drill programs, and the potential for the Omai Gold Project to allow Omai to build significant gold Mineral Resources at attractive grades, and forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; delay or failure to receive regulatory approvals; the price of gold and copper; and the results of current exploration. Further, the Mineral Resource data set out in the Omai Gold news release are estimates, and no assurance can be given that the anticipated tonnages and grades will be achieved or that the indicated level of recovery will be realized. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Further, the Preliminary Economic Assessments and related data discussed in this news release are estimates, and no assurance can be given that the anticipated tonnages and grades will be achieved or that the indicated level of recovery will be realized. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Omai Gold Mines Corp. to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks related to international operations; actual results of current exploration activities; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; future prices of gold, copper and other minerals and metals; general market conditions; possible variations in ore reserves, grade or recovery rates; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; uncertainty of access to additional capital; delays in obtaining governmental approvals or in the completion of development or construction activities. On 8 April 2025, in an interview with the Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform, Ukraines minister of culture and strategic communications, Mykola Tochytskyi, stated that Russia has stolen over 1.7 million pieces of Ukrainian cultural heritage since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. He accused Russia of deliberately targeting Ukrainian heritage, a violation of the 1954 Hague Convention, which aims to safeguard cultural property during armed conflict. One million seven hundred thousand items of our cultural heritage were stolen from the occupied territories including archaeological artifacts and museum collections. The Russian Federation has unlawfully appropriated them, in clear violation of all norms of international law. In the past, when Russia stole our name and our history, the looted artifacts were displayed in the Hermitage or museums in Moscow. Now, they are being openly traded on the black market, said Tochytskyi. By June 2025, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) had confirmed damage to 501 historical sites, including 34 museums and 2 archaeological sites. One of the most striking examples of cultural plunder unfolded in the besieged city of Mariupol, where Russian forces descended upon the Kuindzhi Art Museum, an institution named after the celebrated Ukrainian painter Arkhip Kuindzhi. Inside its walls, the museum held not just paintings and sculptures, but pieces of national heritage, artworks that had survived revolutions, wars, and the passage of time. Among them were original paintings by Kuindzhi himself, luminous with the colors of Ukrainian landscapes, as well as a seascape by Ilya Aivazovsky, portraits and maritime scenes by Nikolay Dubovsky, and an evocative tribute to Kuindzhi by Georgy Kalmykov. There was also a sculpted bust of Kuindzhi, cast by Beklemishev, and a trio of sacred icons, depictions of Christ Pantocrator, the Virgin Mary with Child, and John the Baptist each irreplaceable, each steeped in spiritual and historical weight. In a matter of days, more than 2,000 artifacts were stripped from the museum and transported to temporary storage in Donetsk. To lend legitimacy to the act, Russian officials actually filmed the looting, framing it as an effort to protect the art during military action. But for Ukrainians, the images told another story, a story of erasure and theft under the guise of preservation. In a move many Ukrainians saw as deeply cynical, the occupation authorities later installed an open-air exhibitionin one of Mariupols central parks. But the paintings on display werent originals: they were digital replicas of the very works that had been stolen. The Kuindzhi Museum in Mariupol after it was bombed by the Russians. Photo: Oleksander Hore One of the largest thefts since World War II When Ukrainian forces liberated Kherson in the autumn of 2022, they returned to a haunting scene: the Kherson Museum of Local Lore had been stripped bare. What was once a proud guardian of regional history and culture now stood hollow, its shelves and display cases emptied by Russian occupation authorities. Ukraines Minister of culture, Oleksandr Tkachenko, described the looting as one of the largest thefts of museum collections since World War II. Such mass removal of cultural values from the territory of Ukraine by the Russian occupiers will be comparable to the looting of museums during the Second World War and should be qualified accordingly, he said in a statement, quoting the Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict of 1954 (The Hague Convention). The actions of the Russian federation are a violation of international law and will result in both the responsibility of the aggressor state and the criminal responsibility of those involved at the national and international level. Among the stolen treasures was a rare and ancient Sarmatian jewelry set dating back to the 1st century BC, one of the museums most prized possessions. According to Elena Yeremenko, the museums secretary, nearly every section of the building had been ransacked: rooms once filled with imperial-era weapons, coins, medals, and other priceless artifacts were completely cleared out. Only the nature department, with its taxidermy displays, was left untouched. Yeremenko said that the looting occurred in late October 2022. Russian forces used trucks labeled with Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations to transport the plundered items. The Kherson Museum of Regional Art faced a similar fate. Between 30 October and 4 November 2022, as Ukrainian troops launched a counteroffensive, Russian forces emptied the museums entire collection into five KamAZ military trucks. Soon after, some photos of the stolen paintings appeared on social media, on display at the Central Museum of Tavrida in Simferopol, in occupied Crimea. But the vast majority of the collection remains missing, its fate unknown. In November 2022, the representative of the Ukrainian president for the occupied Crimea, Tamila Tasheva, said that since 12 May 2022, the beginning of Russias occupation of Kherson, Russian military forces have been conducting targeted raids on the homes of local historians, collectors, and antique shops. According to Tasheva, they seized everything that had even the slightest artistic or historical value. Museum workers were also forced to provide lists of valuable exhibits and individuals for evacuation, including museum employees and their families. Tasheva told Justice Info that Russian occupation authorities stole more than 15,000 pieces of fine art and unique historical artifacts from occupied territories. And this number is likely to be a significant underestimate. Many museums in war zones remain inaccessible, damaged, or completely destroyed, leaving a cultural void that may never be fully restored. European sanctions against museum directors Art theft in this context is more than just criminal, it is a deliberate act of cultural erasure, said Oksana Semenova, a Ukrainian cultural historian. The destruction and appropriation of culture is a weapon of war. By erasing memory and stealing heritage, occupiers attempt to rewrite history and replace a nations story with their own. In June 2023, the European Union imposed sanctions on several individuals involved in the looting of Ukrainian cultural institutions. Among them is Tatyana Bratchenko, director of the Kherson regional Museum of Local Lore, who cooperated with Russian occupation authorities and facilitated the removal of the museums collections. Natalya Desyatova, the director of the Kherson regional art Museum, has also been sanctioned for her role during the occupation. Sanctions were likewise applied to Natalya Kapustnikova, director of the Mariupol Museum of Local Lore. In its decision to impose sanctions on her, the Council of the European Union stated that she discovered the location of artworks from the Kuindzhi Art Museum of Mariupol and gave those works willingly over to the Russian authorities, who facilitated their transfer to the Local History Museum of Donetsk This was done without the knowledge or consent of the Ukrainian authorities or the director of the Kuindzhi Art Museum. In acting in this capacity, Natalya Kapustnikova is responsible for supporting and implementing actions and policies which undermine and threaten the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Along with Bratchenko and Kapustnikova, the European Council also imposed sanctions on Andrei Malgin, the general director of the Central Museum of Tavrida in Crimea. The Councils decision states that art works were transferred from the Kherson Fine Art Museum to the Central Museum of Tavrida in Simferopol, where they are currently kept under his control, making Malgin responsible for the same offenses. The sanctions mean that any assets, including bank accounts and properties, held by these individuals in the EU, are to be frozen, and a travel ban to the EU is imposed. In a communique on the destruction of Ukraine's cultural heritage on 16 October 2024, the Congress of local and regional authorities of the European Council talked about the genocidal dimension of the attacks on cultural heritage and said it undermine the very foundations of Ukrainian identity. Especially valuable movable property Many artworks and artifacts taken from museums in Mariupol, Kherson, Melitopol, and other occupied areas remain untraceable. Some have resurfaced in exhibitions across Russia and Russian-occupied Crimea, falsely presented as part of the regions shared cultural heritage. In an effort to legitimize the seizure of Ukrainian cultural assets, Russia has enacted several laws that lay the legal groundwork for absorbing museum collections from occupied territories. These measures not only facilitated the transfer of looted items into Russian state institutions but aim to also ensure that they will not be returned. One key law, enacted on 29 March 2023, establishes a legal framework for managing cultural affairs in the newly incorporated territories, specifically the Donetsk and Luhansk Peoples Republics, as well as the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. It outlines regulations for the preservation of cultural heritage, and the administration of libraries, archives and museums. As part of this process, all museum items and collections from these regions must be entered into the state catalogue of the Museum Fund of the Russian Federation by 31 December 2027. On 12 December 2023, the Russian president Vladimir Putin signed another law codifying the integrity and indivisibility of museum collections. This law designates all items held by museums and used in scientific, educational, or cultural work, as especially valuable movable property. As a result, such items are now considered the permanent, non-transferable property of the holding museum, regardless of their origin. Together, these laws formalize the absorption of Ukrainian cultural heritage into Russian state holdings. Items once housed in Ukrainian museums are now legally classified under Russian management, with no legal mechanism for restitution. What began as the unlawful removal of art and artifacts has, under these legislative changes, been recast as a permanent transfer into the Russian state museum system. Its not our problem International law strongly condemns the looting of cultural heritage, particularly during armed conflict, and seeks to protect cultural property through key treaties and conventions. The 1954 Hague Convention obliges states to respect and safeguard cultural property during times of war. In addition, the 1970 UNESCO Convention focuses on preventing the illicit trafficking of cultural property, including its import, export, and transfer of ownership. A Ukrainian prosecutor who investigates art crimes, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Justice Info: The Russians treat these conventions as if they dont apply to them. As soon as they occupy an area, they begin emptying museums, art collections, and archaeological sites. The 1970 UNESCO Convention also establishes the principle of restitution, meaning that cultural property taken illegally should be returned to its rightful owner, typically the country of origin. However, Christopher Marinello, founder and CEO of the Art Recovery International, a private company specialising in the location and recovery of stolen and looted works of art, warns that the restitution of stolen Ukrainian art from Russia will be extremely difficult. In my 36 years of professional experience in art recovery, I have not succeeded once in returning an artwork from Russia to its rightful owner, he says. Even art stolen by Nazi Germany and later transferred to Russia is not returned. They just say: Its not our problem. Marinello emphasizes that finding stolen artworks is nearly impossible without a detailed catalogue of missing items. According to Ukrainian prosecutors, in cities like Kherson and Mariupol, Russian forces not only looted the collections but also took the catalogues with them. Ukrainian museum staff who remained behind, along with colleagues from other institutions, are now working to rebuild inventories of lost collections. Despite the immense challenge of recovering art from Russia, Marinello notes that there may still be hope. If stolen pieces surface at international auctions or appear for sale abroad, there may be an opportunity to identify and reclaim them. The Philippines said Tuesday it would ask "friendly countries" to help secure the release of nine Filipino sailors being held by Yemen's Huthi rebels. The Iran-backed Huthis released footage on Monday of crew members missing after attacks on the Eternity C and Magic Seas cargo ships, claiming in an accompanying statement to have "rescued" the mariners. Last week, Human Rights Watch said the rebels were unlawfully detaining the crew and that their attacks on shipping amounted to war crimes. The United States has accused the Huthis of kidnapping. Philippine Foreign Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega confirmed the Huthis were holding nine Filipino seafarers. "I do not want to use the term hostage. At least we know they are alive," he told AFP. "We're not going to talk directly with the Huthis. We're going to seek help from friendly countries," he added. The European Union's Operation Aspides naval task force told AFP that 15 of the 25 people onboard the Eternity C were still missing -- with four presumed dead. Cosmoship, the owner of the Eternity C, urged the Huthis on Tuesday to release its crew members "at the earliest opportunity". In a statement, the company expressed relief that "ten of our missing crew members, as well as one of the vessel's security guards (11 in total), are alive and appear to be receiving care", after viewing the footage released by the rebels. "We continue to work through every available channel to support their continued care and to facilitate their safe and swift return home to their families," it added. - Red Sea attacks - The Philippines Department of Migrant Workers, which has overseen efforts to bring the survivors home, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Huthis sank the Magic Seas and Eternity C in separate Red Sea attacks this month, after a temporary hiatus in their campaign against maritime traffic. The Huthis launched attacks on ships in the trade route soon after the start of the Gaza war in October, claiming solidarity with Palestinians. The sinking of the Magic Seas was their first attack since late last year, with the Eternity C facing a similar fate soon after. In its statement, the Huthis said they rescued 11 crew members, including two injured, and also recovered a body from aboard the ship before it sank. The video appeared to show the moment the mostly Filipino crew were pulled from the sea wearing life jackets. A man the Huthis said was an electrician was shown lying in bed and speaking in English. Aspides had said a Russian electrician onboard the ship had lost his leg. De Vega said one of the nine Filipinos had suffered an unspecified injury, and that one of the non-Filipino personnel was also injured. Two weeks ago, eight other Filipino crew members who survived the Eternity C attack were flown back to the Philippines. All 17 Filipino seafarers from the Magic Seas have likewise been flown home. Previously, the Huthis held the mostly Filipino crew of the Galaxy Leader merchant ship for more than a year, before releasing them in January. Filipino sailors make up as much as 30 percent of the world's commercial shipping force. The nearly $7 billion they sent home in 2023 accounted for about a fifth of the remittances to the archipelago nation. French authorities opened an investigation after a lawyer for Benjamin Netanyahu said there was a contract on his head for defending the Israeli leader, the Paris prosecutor's office said on Monday. Olivier Pardo told investigators a former convict, Ruddy Terranova, told him on July 16 that he had been approached to carry out a hit on the lawyer, a source close to the case said, confirming a report in the newspaper Le Parisien. Terranova said he was approached to carry out the job while on a trip to Senegal by members of Lebanon's Hezbollah, a key ally of Israel's arch-foe Iran. He said the militants targeted Pardo because of his work for Netanyahu, who has been the subject of an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) since November 2024, accused of crimes against humanity and war crimes over Israel's ongoing war in Gaza. Pardo told AFP he was "calm, it's one of the risks of my job when you defend causes which have sparked debate in France". "I am confident that the judiciary will determine whether this is a real or a phantom menace," said the lawyer, who counts prominent French politicians including the far-right figure Eric Zemmour among his other clients. According to Le Parisien, Terranova was taken into custody in the week beginning on July 21 in connection with the case, though AFP was not able to confirm this. A former gang member, Terranova was convicted in 2004 of violence considered to be motivated by Islamist radicalism. He served as a police informant and was later suspected of being behind an attempt in 2007 to murder another lawyer, Karim Achoui. He was acquitted of that charge. mk-sc/asl/sbk/rlp X Russia said on Tuesday that it wanted peace in Ukraine, hours after mounting attacks that killed at least 25 people, including a 23-year-old pregnant woman and more than a dozen prison inmates. The strikes came just hours after US President Donald Trump shortened his deadline for Russia to end its invasion of Ukraine -- now into a fourth year -- or face new sanctions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of willfully targeting a prison in the Zaporizhzhia region -- that Russia claims as its own -- killing 16 people and wounding dozens others. "It was a deliberate strike, intentional, not accidental. The Russians could not have been unaware that they were targeting civilians in that facility," Zelensky said on social media in response. The Kremlin denied the claim. "The Russian army does not strike civilian targets," spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, including from AFP. The attacks came hours after Trump said he was cutting the deadline for President Vladimir Putin to halt the Ukraine war from 50 days to 10-12 days. "I really felt it was going to end. But every time I think it's going to end he kills people," Trump said Monday on a visit to Scotland. "I'm not so interested in talking (to him) anymore," he added. Peskov said Moscow had "taken note" of Trump's new deadline and that it remained "committed to the peace process to resolve the conflict around Ukraine and secure our interests." - 'War crimes' - Ukraine's justice ministry said Russian forces hit the prison in Bilenke with four glide bombs. Police said 16 inmates were killed and 43 wounded. Bricks and debris and blown out windows were strewn on the ground, according to images released by the ministry. The facility's perimeter was intact and there was no threat that inmates would escape, it added. Rescue workers searched for survivors in pictures released by the region's emergency services. A senior Ukrainian source said that 274 people were serving sentences in the Bilenkivska facility. The source added there were no Russian war prisoners at the centre. Nadiya, a resident of Bilenke, told AFP the attack damaged her house. "At about ten minutes to six, a neighbour called and said: 'Come quickly, your roof is gone.' Is that normal? Not a single window is intact," the 74-year-old said. The Ukrainian air force said that Russia also launched 37 drones and two missiles overnight, adding that its air defence systems had downed 32 of the drones. One attack targeted a hospital in the town of the Kamyanske in the Dnipropetrovsk region, wounding 22 people. "Putin is rejecting a ceasefire, avoiding a leaders' meeting, and prolonging the war," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga said on social media. "He will only end his terror if we break the spine of his economy," he added, calling on Western allies to consolidate around sanctions on Moscow. - Hospital targeted - "Three people were killed in the attack, including a pregnant woman. Her name was Diana. She was only 23-years-old," Zelensky said. Separate strikes in the eastern Kharkiv region that borders Russia killed six people, regional authorities said. In the southern Russian region of Rostov, a Ukrainian drone attack killed one person, the region's acting governor said. Kyiv has been trying to repel Russia's summer offensive, which has made fresh advances into areas largely spared since the start of the invasion in 2022. The Russian defence ministry claimed fresh advances across the front line on Tuesday, saying its forces had taken two more villages -- one in the Donetsk region, and another in Zaporizhzhia region. The prison strike on Tuesday came on the third anniversary of an attack on another detention facility in occupied Ukrainian territory that Kyiv blamed on Moscow and was reported to have killed dozens of captured Ukrainian soldiers. Ukraine and Russia blamed each other for the night-time strike three years ago on the Olenivka detention centre in Russian-occupied Donetsk region, which the Kremlin says is part of Russia. Ukraine says dozens of its soldiers who laid down their arms after a long Russian siege of the port city of Mariupol were killed in the attack. Sorry, something doesn't look right. Something seems unusual about your device or browser. Please contact support. Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara said Tuesday he will seek a fourth term in the west African country, as tensions rise over the exclusion of many heavyweight opposition candidates. Ouattara, 83, has led Ivory Coast since 2011. He had been earlier officially nominated by his ruling Rally of Houphouetists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP) party as its candidate, but had not yet said if he would contest the October 25 election. "I am a candidate because the constitution of our country allows me to run for another term and my health permits it," he said, adding that the world's top cocoa producer was "facing unprecedented security, economic, and monetary challenges, the management of which requires experience". Critics of Ouattara accuse him of tightening his grip on power and strongly oppose him running again. The opposition has accused the authorities of choosing their opponents by legal means, but the government insists the judiciary acts independently. The two main opposition parties have launched a joint campaign to demand the reinstatement of their barred leaders ahead of the presidential election. This alliance brings together the African People's Party of Ivory Coast (PPACI) -- led by former president Laurent Gbagbo -- and the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI), the country's largest opposition force, headed by former international banker Tidjane Thiam. Gbagbo, his former right-hand man Charles Ble Goude and ex-prime minister Guillaume Soro have been struck from the electoral register due to criminal convictions. Thiam was also excluded by the judiciary over nationality issues. Ouattara worked at the International Monetary Fund and the west African regional bank BCEAO and entered politics when Ivory Coast's founding president, Felix Houphouet-Boigny, appointed him to chair a body on economic recovery in the midst of an economic crisis. As Houphouet-Boigny's health worsened, Ouattara assumed more and more responsibility for overseeing the country's affairs. - Power struggle- When the ailing president died in December 1993, Ouattara was embroiled in a brief power struggle with Henri Konan Bedie, the speaker of parliament, and then left Ivory Coast to join the IMF. In 1995, he joined the new Rally of the Republicans (RDR) party and planned on running as their presidential candidate. But he was barred from doing so following new laws requiring both parents of a candidate to be of Ivorian birth for the candidate to have lived continuously in Ivory Coast prior to an election. He was barred from polls in 2000 on the same grounds. A failed coup two years later led to a low-level civil war, leaving the country divided into the rebel-held and predominantly Muslim north, where Ouattara drew much of his support, and the government-controlled Christian-majority south. Ouattara who was subjected to violence during the unrest, left the country but returned to contest an election in 2010. Then-president Gbagbo's refusal to concede electoral defeat to Ouattara led to another period of unrest, in which more than 3,000 people were killed, before Ouattara became president in 2011. Gbagbo was acquitted on charges of crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Court in The Hague but still has a conviction in Ivory Coast stemming from the violent post-election crisis that ended his rule. Critics have already questioned the legality of Ouattara's third term as the constitution limites presidential terms to two. The opposition boycotted the 2020 vote and Ouattara won by a landslide. A UN court on Tuesday denied a request for early release from Ratko Mladic, a military leader during the 1990s Yugoslav wars known as the "Butcher of Bosnia". Mladic, sentenced to life imprisonment in 2017 over genocide and war crimes, filed a request to be freed on June 3 saying he only had a few months to live. But a judge at the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, the court tasked with handling remaining cases from the Yugoslav war crimes tribunal, said his condition did not meet the threshold of an "acute terminal illness" required for release. "I acknowledge that Mladic's current condition, which requires dependency on others for activities of daily living, is precarious," judge Graciela Gatti Santana said in a 12-page decision issued in The Hague. "Nonetheless, Mladic continues to receive very comprehensive and compassionate care, as amply supported by medical reports. "The information before me demonstrates that the compelling humanitarian circumstances invoked by Mladic as a basis for his release are not substantiated." Mladic, now in his 80s, was sentenced by the UN tribunal for the former Yugoslavia for his role in the siege of Sarajevo and the 1995 Srebrenica massacre. Some 8,000 Muslim men and boys were killed in Srebrenica by Bosnian Serb forces in July that year. Mladic has long been described by his lawyers as sick and frail and in their latest request they said he suffered from an incurable illness and that "his remaining life expectancy is measured in months", according to a filing seen by AFP. His defence first sought provisional release on medical grounds in 2017. Santana said Mladic's continued incarceration was neither "inhuman nor degrading". Mladic was arrested in Serbia in 2011 after 16 years on the run and is serving his sentence in The Hague. His son, Darko, often speaks to Serbian media about the poor health of his father, who is still seen as a hero by some in Serbia. Veteran Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara said Tuesday he will seek a fourth term in the west African country, as tensions rise over the exclusion of many opposition candidates. Ouattara, 83, who has led Ivory Coast since 2011, will be the overwhelming favourite to win the October 25 vote. Ouattara had already been nominated by his ruling Rally of Houphouetists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP) party, but he waited until Tuesday to confirm he would run. The opposition has argued a fourth Ouattara term would be unconstitutional. "I am a candidate because the constitution of our country allows me to run for another term and my health permits it," he said, adding that the world's top cocoa producer was "facing unprecedented security, economic, and monetary challenges, the management of which requires experience". For the past decade Ouattara has steered Ivory Coast to relative stability, in a turbulent region which has seen a rash of military coups. Yet critics accuse him of tightening his grip on power. The opposition has also accused the authorities of using courts to exclude opponents. The government insists the judiciary acts independently. The two main opposition parties have launched a joint campaign to demand the reinstatement of their barred leaders ahead of the election. - 'Attack on democracy' - The alliance brings together the African People's Party of Ivory Coast (PPACI) -- led by former president Laurent Gbagbo -- and the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI), the country's largest opposition force, headed by former international banker Tidjane Thiam. Gbagbo, his former right-hand man Charles Ble Goude and ex-prime minister Guillaume Soro have been struck from the electoral register due to criminal convictions. Thiam was also excluded by the judiciary over nationality issues. "The announcement made today by Mr Ouattara constitutes a violation of our constitution and a new attack on democracy," Thiam said in a statement. A lawyer for Thiam, Mathias Chichportich, told AFP that a United Nations human rights committee had called for Ivory Coast to allow the opposition figure to "exercise his political rights" and run in the upcoming vote. Likewise an official from Gbagbo's party, Damana Pickass, told the press Ouattara's mandate was "unconstitutional". Pascal Affi N'Guessan, who will run to unseat Ouattara for the Ivorian Popular Front (FPI), called it "a candidacy as illegal as his third". Critics had already questioned the legality of Ouattara's third mandate as the law limited him to two, until the adoption of a new constitution in 2016 reset the term counter to zero. The opposition boycotted the 2020 vote and Ouattara won by a landslide, with at least 85 people killed in the ensuing unrest. - Power struggle- Ouattara worked at the International Monetary Fund and the west African regional bank BCEAO and entered politics when Ivory Coast's founding president, Felix Houphouet-Boigny, appointed him to chair a body on economic recovery in the midst of an economic crisis. As Houphouet-Boigny's health worsened, Ouattara assumed increasing responsibility for the country's affairs. When the ailing president died in December 1993, Ouattara was embroiled in a brief power struggle with Henri Konan Bedie, the speaker of parliament, and then left Ivory Coast to join the IMF. In 1995, he joined the Rally of the Republicans (RDR) party and planned on running as their presidential candidate. But he was barred from doing so following new laws requiring both parents of a candidate to be of Ivorian birth and for the candidate to have lived continuously in Ivory Coast prior to an election. He was barred from polls in 2000 on the same grounds. A failed coup two years later led to a civil war that divided the country into rebel-held and predominantly Muslim north, where Ouattara drew much of his support, and the government-controlled Christian-majority south. Ouattara, who was subjected to violence during the unrest, left the country but returned to contest an election in 2010. Then-president Gbagbo's refusal to concede electoral defeat to Ouattara led to more unrest, in which more than 3,000 people were killed, before Ouattara became president in 2011. Gbagbo was acquitted of crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Court in The Hague but still has a conviction in Ivory Coast stemming from the post-election crisis that ended his rule. Drone view shows Volkswagen Group cars bound for cargo ship export to the United States at the seaport of Emden near the estuary, where the River Ems flows into the North Sea, in Emden, Germany, April 2, 2025. [Photo/Agencies] Global Times-While the US-EU trade agreement may have averted an immediate transatlantic trade war, European automakers remain under significant pressure as tariff costs continue to undermine their competitiveness. Germany's top three carmakers are set to have more than 10 billion euros ($11.7 billion) wiped off their cash flows this year as US tariff costs add pressure to the industry, the Financial Times reported on Sunday. Specifically, cash flows are likely to fall from 9.4 billion euros last year to 3 billion euros at Mercedes-Benz, from 7.1 billion euros to 3.3 billion euros at Volkswagen, and 4.8 billion euros to 4.4 billion euros for BMW, according to data from Visible Alpha. These figures reveal the severe challenges facing European automakers, as the car industry has been one of the hardest hit by US tariffs. The US and the EU have reached a trade agreement, under which EU goods exported to the US will be subject to a 15 percent tariff, according to Reuters. This has received mixed reactions in the EU, with official and industry figures warning that tariff levels remain elevated. Finnish Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio said on Sunday (local time) that while the agreement has calmed the situation, there is absolutely no reason for celebration, as tariff levels remain high, according to media reports. This underscores a harsh reality: even with the new 15 percent tariff rate, Europe's automakers remain at a severe competitive disadvantage in the US market. What is even more worrying is that the damage goes beyond these immediate financial losses. The ripple effects of US tariffs will extend across supply chains, disrupting production and raising costs industry-wide. Such trade barriers may also trigger a broader chain reaction of protectionism. In order to protect domestic industries, the EU may impose similar trade obstacles on automobiles and parts from other regions, further fragmenting the global automotive supply chain. Such a scenario would only deepen the crisis for European carmakers, already struggling with fierce competition in the transition to electric vehicles (EVs). Against this backdrop, Europe's auto sector stands at a critical juncture of adjustment. As access barriers to the US market are constantly rising, how to diversify beyond the US market is the fundamental challenge facing the EU. Thus, the vast potential of China, the world's largest automotive market, offers a crucial opportunity. For European automakers facing the challenges of tariffs and protectionism, enhancing cooperation with China is not only a way to offset current tariff pressures but also a strategic move to position themselves for future industrial competition. China is the world's largest automobile consumer market and a crucial source of innovation in new-energy vehicle technologies. In the first half of 2025, China retained its position as the fastest-growing major EV market with sales in the region up 32 percent year-on-year. Europe's EV market grew 26 percent year-on-year and North America's just 3 percent, according to Rho Motion's EV & Battery Database. If European automakers can seize the opportunities in the Chinese market, they can offset pressure in the US market and also maintain competitiveness in key areas of the future automotive industry such as electrification and digitalization. As the global car industry chain undergoes tremendous changes, the strategic value of the Chinese market has become increasingly prominent. Yet, whether this potential can be fully unleashed and translated into opportunities for European automakers largely depends on whether they can find a mutually beneficial cooperation model. This includes not only expanding sales in China but also deepening cooperation with Chinese companies in areas such as technological research and development (R&D) and manufacturing. Some forward-thinking European automakers have already begun to do so. For instance, in March, Volkswagen and Chinese automaker FAW Group signed an agreement to launch 11 new Volkswagen- and Jetta-branded models tailored for the Chinese market from 2026. BMW announced a partnership with Huawei to develop an in-car digital ecosystem in China based on the technology company's Harmony operating system. These agreements have helped European automakers reduce R&D costs and enabled them to quickly respond to global market demands. Europe's automotive future hinges on its ability to navigate the protectionism challenge, and the choice is clear: cooperation, not isolation, is the key to ensure European automakers' competitive edge. Kennesaw State graduates earn international recognition for award-winning architectural drawing KENNESAW, Ga. | Jul 29, 2025 Two Kennesaw State University architecture graduates are gaining international recognition for their innovative design work, earning top honors from two prestigious competitions for a detailed drawing of the KSU Field Station greenhouses and research facilities. Sean Spencer and Nelson Agalaba, who graduated in May from the KSU College of Architecture and Construction Management, received the Award of Distinction from the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI) and were named finalists in the Ken Roberts Memorial Delineation (KRob) Competition. Their work will be showcased this October at ASAIs Architecture in Perspective exhibition in Tokyo, marking the universitys growing presence in global architectural illustration. The recognition is the latest milestone in KSUs rising reputation for architectural excellence. This marks the second consecutive year the university has been represented in the KRob competition. The award-winning drawing, created in assistant professor Trace Gaineys focus studio last fall, reimagines the KSU Field Station as a multi-use research and educational space that blends into the surrounding landscape. The project was inspired by the sites environmental history, including research on agricultural yields, local bat populations, and bird habitats. We wanted something more than a standard greenhouse, Spencer said. The design integrates into the landscape rather than sitting on top of it, making it feel like a natural part of the sites ecology. Agalaba emphasized that the layered drawing tells the story of how people interact with the site over time. Its not just a technical illustration, its storytelling, he said. Every layer, from researchers working inside the greenhouse to cars passing on nearby highways, adds to that narrative. The piece combines hand-drawn sketches, watercolor, and charcoal with digital tools such as Rhino, Revit, Photoshop, and D5, creating a collage-like final product that spans nearly 7 feet. The level of experimentation and detail is what I think set us apart, Spencer said. Both graduates credit Kennesaw States architecture program for preparing them to compete on an international stage. The diversity of perspectives at KSU, both among students and professors, pushed us to question what architecture could be, Agalaba said. It helped us develop our own design voices. Hazem Rashed-Ali, dean of the College of Architecture and Construction Management, praised Spencer and Agalaba for their accomplishments. Sean and Nelson represent the creativity, dedication, and global vision we strive to foster in our students, Rashed-Ali said. Their success highlights the exceptional quality of our architecture program and the impact KSU graduates are making on the world stage. Since graduating, both alumni have started professional careers while continuing to explore creative design. Spencer is working on an experimental project at Perkins & Will architecture firm, while Agalaba, now with the Preston Partnership, is helping develop multiple mixed-use projects in the Atlanta area and continues to refine his architectural drawings through competitions. Its exciting and humbling to have our work earn this recognition, Spencer said. Its a reminder that architecture is as much about storytelling as it is about design. Story by Raynard Churchwell Photo provided Related Stories A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The universitys vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu. Tuesday, July 29, 2025 - The Tanzanian Government has issued a directive barring foreigners from operating in 15 categories of small- and medium-sized businesses, in a move likely to impact many Kenyan entrepreneurs in the country. In a notice dated July 28th, Tanzanias Minister for Industry and Trade, Selemani Saidi Jafo, listed the restricted sectors, which span mining, tourism, agriculture, environment, and technology. Banned activities include mobile money transfers, electronic repairs, salon operations (unless linked to hotels or tourism), environmental cleaning services, small-scale mining, postal and courier services, tour guiding, and operating radio or TV stations. Others include running museums or curio shops, business brokering, real estate broking, clearing and forwarding, crop purchasing, gambling outside casinos, and ownership of micro and small industries. Violators face fines of up to Tsh10 million (approx. Ksh503,000) or a six-month prison term. Tanzanian citizens aiding such foreign activities risk three months in jail and a Tsh5 million (Ksh251,000) fine. Foreigners with valid licences in the affected sectors will be allowed to operate until the licences expire. The directive is part of Tanzanias broader economic reform agenda ahead of the 2025/2026 fiscal year. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, July 29, 2025 - Former Nandi Hills Member of Parliament, Alfed Keter, has launched a scathing attack on Justice Kanyi Kimondo, the High Court Judge presiding over the murder trial of Boniface Kariuki, a 22-year-old hawker fatally shot by a rogue police officer during the Saba Saba protests. Keter, in a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), accused Justice Kimondo of corruption and questioned the judges ability to deliver justice in the high-profile case. He went as far as linking Kimondo to a 2018 ruling that nullified his election as MP, a judgment Keter now claims was tainted by bribery. My fellow Kenyan patriots! Lets find a way to fight for justice for Boniface Kariuki! Justice Kanyi Kimondo is a very corrupt judge! He was compromised back in 2018 to nullify my election! Kimondo is Jurispesa par excellence, Keter tweeted. Keters explosive allegations comes after Kariukis family demanded justice Kimondos recusal from the case. The Kenyan DAILY POST Nairobi, Kenya What was supposed to be a smooth home relocation experience turned into a frustrating ordeal for one Kenyan resident after hiring Keja Move, a moving company operating in Nairobi and its environs. According to the affected client, Keja Move was hired to help with household relocation a service the company claims to offer with professionalism and care. However, during the move, the company allegedly damaged a suitcase and a washing machine, leaving the client with costly repairs and no compensation. False Promises and No Follow-Up After the incident, the client immediately reached out to the company to raise the issue. The management, reached via phone number 0711 931 212, which is registered under the name Brian Kaleli, acknowledged the complaint and promised to resolve the matter within seven days. They told me they would sort it out in a week. That was weeks ago. Since then, theyve stopped responding to my calls and texts, said the client, clearly frustrated by the lack of accountability. They Dont Care About Clients Property The customer says whats most concerning is not just the damage, but the complete disregard for after-service support. Despite multiple attempts to follow up, Keja Move has reportedly gone silent ignoring messages, not returning calls, and making no effort to assess or compensate for the damaged items. Its not just poor service its disrespect. They handled my property carelessly, and when things broke, they just disappeared, the client added. A Warning to Other Kenyans This incident highlights a growing concern about unregulated moving companies in Kenya that operate without proper systems for accountability, insurance, or customer care. Consumers are being urged to: Research companies thoroughly before hiring movers. Check for online reviews or ask for referrals. Insist on contracts or service agreements outlining liability for damages. Take photos of items before and after the move in case of disputes. Keja Move has yet to respond to any public allegations at the time of publishing this article. Calls placed to 0711931212 have gone unanswered. Tuesday, July 29, 2025 - Tragedy has struck in yet another heartbreaking case of mental health struggles after a middle-aged Kenyan lady took her own life after posting a distressing message on Facebook. According to reports, the deceased had been battling severe depression after her husband abandoned her for his side chick, leaving her to fend for their two children alone. Her estranged husband claimed that she was bringing nothing to the table and eloped with his sidechick. In her final social media post, she bade goodbye to her kids, expressed deep emotional pain, and asked for forgiveness from those she felt she had failed. To my kids, please forgive me. I tried, but I am tired, she posted. This tragic incident adds to a rising number of suicide cases in Kenya linked to emotional distress, economic hardship, and domestic challenges. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, July 29, 2025 - Dagoretti North MP, Beatrice Elachi, has warned that Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu may consider suing the Kenyan Government over the increasing wave of online insults and ridicule directed at her by Kenyan netizens. Speaking during an interview on TV47, Elachi suggested that President Suluhu could lodge an international lawsuit under frameworks related to gender and electoral integrity. President Samia Suluhu can sue us. After the October 28th election, she might argue that as a woman presidential candidate, she faced online abuse from Kenyans, which could be deemed electoral violence, Elachi stated. Elachi emphasized that such cyberbullying, especially targeting a female Head of State, could violate both international conventions and Kenya's own laws against electoral violence. Her remarks follow escalating tensions between Kenya and Tanzania after the deportation of several Kenyan activists, including former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, Martha Karua, and journalists. The incidents, which occurred in May, have drawn criticism from Kenyan citizens and leaders, many accusing the Tanzanian Government of stifling dissent and violating human rights. Elachi urged Parliament to review East African Community treaties to better address such cross-border legal issues. We must understand the treaties binding EAC states before making accusations. Legal clarity is key, she said. President Suluhu is also facing internal criticism for her administration's treatment of opposition figures, including the arrest of CHADEMA leader, Tundu Lissu, on treason-related charges. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, July 29, 2025 - Saboti MP, Caleb Amisi, has vowed to abandon the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in the 2027 General Elections if it continues its cooperation with President William Rutos Kenya Kwanza administration. Speaking on Tuesday, July 29th, Amisi, a two-term MP and vocal ODM loyalist, declared that his current mandate under the Raila Odinga-led party only lasts until the end of his five-year term. He warned that continued collaboration with Kenya Kwanza beyond this period would force him to seek a new political home. I am an ODM member elected for five years. But if ODM continues working with William Ruto, I will not seek re-election on its ticket, he said. Amisi criticized the ongoing political realignments, arguing that they have confused grassroots supporters and compromised the partys core ideology. He added that ODMs historical role has been to hold the Government accountable - not to merge interests with it. However, he noted that should the party withdraw from its current arrangement and return to its original values, he would remain committed to it. If ODM retraces its steps and aligns with its founding agenda, we can forge ahead together, he stated. Amisi joins other leaders like ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna in questioning the ODM-Kenya Kwanza Memorandum of Understanding. He believes the agreement has led to ideological dilution and political uncertainty, urging the party to make a decisive move before more damage is done. ODM has to make a decision now. There's a lot of confusion among the supporters; there are those who agree with the broad-based government, while others don't, and that confusion is derailing our efforts as a party,' Amisi asserted. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, July 29, 2025 - A senior manager at Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) collapsed and died along the Kisumu-Kakamega Highway during his morning run, leaving many people in shock. According to reports, a traffic police officer, who was on duty along the highway, rushed and administered first aid at the scene. Sadly, the manager, who has been identified as George Otieno Riba, died before he could be rushed to the hospital. One of Georges colleagues took to social media and recounted his last moments with him, describing him as a very jovial man. George looked as fit as a fiddle a day before his death. We were with George yesterday and left one another when I was going on stairs to 10th floor where my office is, and left George at the ground floor in his office (Prosperity building, Huduma centre Kisumu) after taking breakfast at 10.30 am. Wuod Riba was very jovial, not knowing it was my last moment with Nera. He was an accountant with KBC Radio Taifa Kisumu, his colleague wrote. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, July 29, 2025 - Homa Bay Town MP, Peter Kaluma, has renewed his call for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna to resign from his key positions as Senate Minority Leader and Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). In a strongly worded statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday, July 29th, 2025, Kaluma claimed that Sifuna's continued opposition to ODMs cooperation with President William Rutos United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is undermining party unity. Sifuna must resign or be removed from ODM. The faster this happens, the better, Kaluma stated. You can be made powerful when young to the point you lose yourself. Sifuna smells like Gachagua. Kaluma went further to accuse Sifuna of secretly working with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to destabilize ODM from within. He claimed that Sifuna's consistent criticism of party decisions and his inflammatory public utterances closely mirror Gachagua's divisive political style, raising questions about his loyalty to the party's agenda. His language and tone have become indistinguishable from that of our opponents. We must ask ourselves who he is really serving, Kaluma alleged. Sifuna, along with other ODM figures such as Saboti MP, Caleb Amisi, has openly questioned the MoU, calling it a betrayal of the partys core values. A KILDARE family has spoken out following a serious road traffic accident on the Sallins Bypass yesterday evening. The crash occurred as the family a mother, father, and their five-year-old son were travelling to Newbridge to celebrate their seventh wedding anniversary. According to the mother's statement shared online on the Kildare Weather Facebook page, their plans were shattered when a car driven by an allegedly intoxicated driver veered into the opposite side of the road. My husband hit the brakes and tried as much as possible for us not to be hit full frontal, she said. Despite the severity of the collision, the family survived though not without injury. Their young son stayed overnight for observation at Crumlin Children's Hospital. No serious injury other than being in complete shock and badly bruised from the seatbelt, his mother noted. The boys father is also recovering from minor injuries, protected by his seatbelt and the cars airbag. The woman remains on a trolley at Tallaght Hospital and is expected to be transferred to St Jamess Hospital for consultation with a plastic surgeon. She sustained a deep cut to her right hand, which may require surgery due to suspected muscle damage. She also reported extensive bruising and general pain. The car is a write-off, she said, but added, I am grateful for us all to still be alive and can't wait to hug my son and husband hopefully tomorrow. In a pointed message to the driver of the other vehicle who allegedly fled the scene she wrote: I hope they caught the guy who decided to walk off instead of directly facing the consequences for driving under the influence. I hope you get the help you need to sort your life out, but also will be held accountable for the pain and trauma you have caused us on a day that was supposed to be a celebration. She ended her message with heartfelt thanks to the community: Thanks again for all the help of everyone that came to our rescue. This is why I love Ireland! Community Facebook page, Kildare Weather, has created a GoFundMe for the family for their trouble, which has already surpassed the target amount of 500. You can find the donation page at this link Ellen O'Donoghue A garda was injured on Tuesday evening after an unprovoked assault in Dublin city centre. According to reports, the garda was stabbed multiple times. The unprovoked attack occurred on Capel Street at around 6pm, the Garda Press Office confirmed. The garda was on routine high-visibility patrol in the city when he suffered stab wounds to his arm and side, according to The Irish Times. He has been taken to hospital in Dublin for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, where he remains, but is expected to be discharged. A man in his 20s was arrested at the scene and is currently detained at a garda station in the Dublin region under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984. The Irish Times added that the incident occurred when two gardai responded to reports of a man armed with a large blade, believed to be a kitchen knife, and after a struggle, the man was restrained by gardai using their batons. Assistant Commissioner for the Dublin Metropolitan Region, Paul Cleary, said that he speaks for "all of An Garda Siochana in Dublin when I say that our thoughts are very much with our colleague who is recovering tonight. "This evenings unprovoked assault is indicative of what Gardai can face when they go out on duty to keep people safe. There is not always video footage or content shared online, but we experience it in our day-to-day duties and its a difficult aspect of the job. Assaults of this nature will never be acceptable or tolerated," he said. "Our colleague has our full, steadfast support, and the range of welfare services will be extended to him when he feels up to it. He added that the suspect involved in the incident has been apprehended and is in garda custody. "I want to assure the public that there is no ongoing threat to their safety in the city," Mr Cleary said. The Garda Representative Association said a young member of the force suffered a quite terrifying and unprovoked attack and paid tribute to his colleagues for their bravery. The association said a young probationary member was subject to a quite terrifying and unprovoked attack. They added that only for his bravery and that of his colleagues this incident could have resulted in far worse and unthinkable consequences. Our job is tough. Our members continually run towards situations that others must flee from. But there is never, ever, an excuse for being exposed to such acts of random violence, they said. The attacks being visited upon our members is shocking and we will never accept that being assaulted is being part of our job. More needs to be done to create a safer working environment where the risk of assault is reduced. Sinn Fein president Mary-Lou McDonald condemned the incident. Dreadful news that a garda was brutally attacked on Capel Street earlier this evening while working to keep the people of Dublin safe, she said in a post on the social media network X. There must be zero tolerance for such disgraceful behaviour. I wish the garda a speedy recovery and commend his colleagues for their quick response. Garda welfare services have been offered and put in place for the injured member and his colleagues, the Garda Press Office said. Additional reporting by PA. A MAN who sexually assaulted both a man and a woman on the Carlow-Athy train was sentenced to six months in prison. At his first appearance last February, Garda Emma Carroll told Athy District Court how on 3 November 2023 on a train journey between Carlow and Athy, he engaged in some inappropriate touching. Does not remember He rubbed his hand along his thigh, and touched her breast, she clarified. The male reported it at the next stop, and he was arrested that night. He says he does not remember." This week (22 July), because of his guilty plea, Sergeant Dave Hanrahan could list his four previous convictions two public order offences and two road traffic matters. In mitigation, his solicitor Seamus Taaffe said his client was a qualified chef, single and has no children. He cannot be identified due to reporting restrictions. Are the victims adult? enquired Judge Desmond Zaidan. Yes, judge, assured Mr Taaffe. I would be seeking a probation report, he asked. Was he drunk? asked the judge. Very drunk, said Mr Taaffe. That doesnt justify it. Nobody would like their female relative to be groped, said the judge. It took courage for this male and female to give their evidence, said Sgt Hanrahan. The defendant is the victim in a very sensitive case in Carlow, explained the court-appointed translator, but did not give any further detail. Best I can do He is not the first to give evidence of sexual abuse, noted the judge. This is now turned around into sexual abuse." Mr Taaffe reminded the court his client was a heavy drinker but Judge Zaidan was not for turning, and sentenced the man to six months in jail for the female and a further six months concurrent for the male, and set an appeal bond of 1,000. Thats the best I can do, he said. Noting that the charges were both under S2 of the Criminal Law (Rape Act, the judge put the man on the Sex Offenders Register for two years after consulting with Sgt Hanrahan. Press Association Justin Kelly will become the new Garda Commissioner on September 1st, Minister for Justice Jim OCallaghan has announced. He will replace Drew Harris, who is to retire after seven years as Commissioner. Mr Kelly is currently a Deputy Commissioner and has been appointed for five years. (left to right) Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan, Garda Deputy Commissioner Justin Kelly, Taoiseach Micheal Martin and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris outside Government Buildings in Dublin. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA Mr OCallaghan said: The role of Garda commissioner is one of the most challenging and impactful leadership positions in Irelands public service and the appointment process was suitably rigorous. I am satisfied that Justin Kelly is both qualified and particularly well suited to the role of Commissioner, given his extensive leadership experience over the last 30 years in some of the most challenging issues facing An Garda Siochana, including national security, domestic and sexual violence, and organised crime. I know Justin is fully committed to providing a high-visibility, highly trusted policing service to the public. The selection process identified 14 candidates and included two interviews and a presentation. Mr Kelly was selected as the preferred candidate. From Dublin, Mr Kelly has more than 30 years policing experience and was appointed to his current role in October 2024. He has a background in relation to combatting organised crime groups and safeguarding the security of the State. Garda Deputy Commissioner Justin Kelly (left) with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA In his previous role as an assistant commissioner he was responsible for leading the national policing response in areas of drugs and organised crime, cybercrime, economic crime, immigration and crimes against vulnerable persons. He was the strategic lead for the development of capacity and organisational policy in areas connected with serious crime investigation. From 2020 to 2022 he was detective chief superintendent, leading the Garda's operational counter-terrorism unit, the special detective unit. He was previously a detective superintendent as well as a detective inspector and a frontline inspector in the Blanchardstown and Clondalkin areas of Dublin. In 2001 he was seconded to work for the United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where he worked monitoring and building the capacity of local law enforcement. Mr Harris will continue to lead the force until September, when he will retire after 41 years of service to policing across the island. Tomas Doherty A wide range of stories feature across Tuesday's newspaper front pages, including the death of a farmer suspected of killing his wife and children in Fermanagh. The Irish Times reports that local authorities will be told to zone more land for housing, as the Government plans to more than double the national annual target as part of efforts to tackle the housing crisis. The long-awaited diversion scheme for people caught in possession of drugs for personal use is expected to begin before November, according to the Irish Examiner. The Irish Independent says there is confusion in the Government and the EU about what products will be covered by the baseline 15 per cent tariff which activates on Friday following the US trade deal. Cocaine use is surging among young women in Ireland, the Irish Daily Mail reveals. The Irish Daily Mirror and Belfast Telegraph lead with the death of the only suspect in the Fermanagh shooting incident. The Irish Daily Star reports that a Co Down plumber pleaded guilty to facilitating a criminal organisation to import explosives, firearms and ammunition into the State. The Herald reports that a tracking device was used by a man to track his ex-partner before he tried to murder her. The Irish News reports that GPs across the North will begin collective action this week in a dispute over finances. Cork business leaders tell The Echo about their fears for the local economy after the US tariffs deal. The Herald reports: The Government has agreed to build a new medical school, costing more than $230 million, at the University of Waikato. The New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine will offer a four-year graduate programme for students who have completed a three-year undergraduate degree. With $82.85 million in Government funding and over $150 million from the University, supported by philanthropic investment, this is a substantial commitment to education and regional development in the Waikato. Im pleased the taxpayer contribution has been scaled back to around $80 million. The main driver of this has been Waikato University, who have been pushing this since 2016. The main reason, in my opinion, is prestige. For quite a long period of time, Waikato University was not seen in the same league as the older universities. Otago, Auckland, Canterbury and VUW were all established in the 1800s. Massey followed in 1927 and then Waikato in 1964. The law school especially was not seen as particularly good. I knew quite a few lawyers who said they would never hire a Waikato Law School graduate as it was seen as more political than legal. Today that is not the case, and instead I suspect AUT Law School is the one that struggles to find jobs for graduates. Today Waikato is held in higher esteem (partly thanks to their VC, who I do rate highly (NB: He was my monetary economics lecturer at VUW, but I doubt he even remembers me). They are ranked not so bad in global rankings, but still a bit below the five older universities. A medical school would add considerably to their prestige. They are sort of the crown jewels of the university system. So from Waikatos point of view, they really want a medical school. So is it a good idea from a health system point of view? Well Im not an expert, but my initial position tends to be more choice and competition is good. A third medical school is better than a duopoly. Also Waikato has proposed a far stronger focus on rural health, which is badly needed. Their structure of a four year post graduate degree is different to the current double bachelors MBChB. Just increasing places in the two current medical schools is certainly an option, and one that is probably cheaper. However considering the massive barriers they place in front of aspiring medical students who dont fit into one of their quotas (they need a 95% grade average vs 70% for those who are a preferential demographic), Im not convinced one should put all your eggs in that basket. The Government has funded increased places at Otago and Auckland, and a new medical school at Waikato. Considering they have significantly reduced the taxpayer contribution from $280 million to $80 million, it looks like a good outcome. As I said, choice and competition is a good thing. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. China Red Cross sends work group, supplies to Beijing's flood-hit district Xinhua) 16:05, July 29, 2025 BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The Red Cross Society of China (RCSC) said on Tuesday that it has dispatched a working group to Miyun District in Beijing to carry out disaster relief efforts. Based on reports of heavy rain and flooding situation from its Beijing branch, the RCSC launched a special emergency response on Monday, dispatching 2,000 family relief packages to disaster-stricken areas to assist local Red Cross organizations in relocating and resettling affected residents, said the organization. All-out disaster relief and rescue operations are underway in the Chinese capital as the latest round of intense rainstorms have left 30 people dead as of midnight Monday, damaging roads, disrupting power supply and prompting mass evacuation. The deaths occurred in Beijing's northern mountainous districts, with 28 in Miyun and two in Yanqing, according to local authorities. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Du Mingming) We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. An example of one of the properties in Caddo Parish the Caddo Commission wants to address. Country United States of America US Virgin Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Canada Mexico, United Mexican States Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Cuba, Republic of Dominican Republic Haiti, Republic of Jamaica Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe A WOMAN who was caught speeding at 181kph in Laois has kept her driving licence, after paying 5,000 to a hospice. The 22-year-olds case was adjourned at Portlaoise District Court in June, after she admitted vastly exceeding the 120kph motorway speed limit on the M7 at Cappakeel on 18 May 2025, when she was aged 21. Judge Andrew Cody agreed to reduce a dangerous driving charge, which carries an automatic disqualification, to one of careless driving, on condition that she paid a 5,000 donation to North Tipperary Hospice before 24 July. In court last Thursday, Caoimhe Dunne Brennan of 10 Schoolhouse Gate, Ballinkillen, Bagenalstown, Co Carlow produced a receipt showing that she paid the full donation. At the original hearing, Garda Roy Cooper said he stopped the defendant driving a 161-registered BMW 420 at 11.30am, after recording the high speed. The driver said she was travelling back from Dublin, there was no alcohol in her system and she had no previous convictions. Defending solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was originally from Carlow but is living in Tipperary, where she is a very highly regarded social care worker with Rehabcare. Her driving licence is essential to her employment. The solicitor said Ms Dunne Brennan brought 3,000 to court, in the hope of avoiding the loss of her licence by making a donation. He said: She is potentially going to lose everything due to a moment of madness. Garda Cooper confirmed for Judge Cody that the woman was very unlikely to reoffend, adding: She is one of the few that you wont see back before you. The judge said that, while it was a huge speed, he would reduce the charge to careless driving subject to a higher donation of 5,000. At the resumed hearing, Mr Fitzgerald recalled that glowing references were submitted on his clients behalf and members of her family were supporting her in court. He said: What happened appears to be an aberration and it is certainly not going to happen again. Ms Dunne Brennan was convicted of careless driving, with no disqualification. ONE of the UK and Irelands favourite stand-up comedians Dara O Briain is making his Electric Picnic debut this year. With over two million likes and followers on Facebook and 500 million online views, comedy sketch troupe Foil Arms and Hog will also make an appearance, their only Irish festival show this year. Also on the line-up will be comedian, writer, illustrator and podcaster Jarlath Regan. His unstoppable, relentless never-ending flow of fantastic tales and over the top mind-blowing observations, cause near hysteria wherever he performs. Chris Kent is making a long overdue return to Electric Picnic. Another returnee is Belfasts Shane Todd, described as a modern day King of Comedy. Cork native and Barcelona resident Kyla Cobbler will bring a freshness to the scene with her honest, blunt and deep storytelling style. The Electric Picnic Comedy Tent opens at 1.30pm on Saturday and Sunday 30 August and has a packed fun-filled line up with more comedians such as Rachel Galvo aka The Shite Feminist. Vittorio Angelone, the Italian Irish comedian from Belfast will also be there. While Kilkennys Mike Rice, the world class raconteur, with his dirty, hysterical comedy will no doubt have you in tears. Then theres Andrew Maxwell who once won Celebrity Mastermind. The affable Dubliner Gearoid Farrellys with his blend of quick wit and impeccable comic timing and Emma Doran, the self-proclaimed chancer. Overseeing proceedings on the Comedy Tent over the two days will be, the seemingly never-go-home from Stradbally, MC Karl Spain. Down through the years, Electric Picnic has sought to provide a platform to the best of the new breed of comedians, so prepare to be wowed by the stars of tomorrow when Siomha Hennessy, Steve Spade, Emer Maguire, Bronagh Diamond, Darragh Bourke and Eddie Mullarkey play the biggest gig in their careers thus far. There'll be some craic at the Electric Picnic this year The full list of performers in the Comedy Tent can be viewed on the Electric Picnic website. On 28 July community leaders and human rights activists in El Salvador warned that the government led by Presidentmay be preparing a new stronger wave of violence against them. End of preview - This article contains approximately 362 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 28 July, the presidential candidate of the right-of-centre opposition coalition Chile Vamos, accused the far-right Partido Republicano (PR) of, the current frontrunner in the polls, of carrying out a dirty campaign against her on social media. End of preview - This article contains approximately 371 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 28 July Brazilian human rights group Conselho Indigenista Missionario (Cimi), an NGO tied to the Catholic Church, released a report showing that 211 indigenous people were murdered in Brazil in 2024, up from 208 in 2023 End of preview - This article contains approximately 390 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options The last episode of Chespirito: Sin Querer Queriendo, the series that chronicles the life of legendary Mexican comedian Roberto Gomez Bolanos on the HBO MAX streaming platform, aired in the third week of July. However, the debate on social media continues, especially regarding the artist's romance with his colleague, Florinda Meza, which led to his divorce from his first wife, Graciela Fernandez. The latest breath of fresh air for the raging gossip surrounding the cast of iconic shows like El Chavo del Ocho and El Chapulin Colorado came courtesy of an interview that actor Ruben Aguirre conducted a few years ago with Mexican journalist Gustavo Adolfo Infante. In the video that resurfaced on social media this weekend, Aguirre, best known for his role as Professor Jirafales on El Chavo del 8, is seen criticizing Chespirito 's first wife and crediting Meza for the comedian's huge success. His remarks, however, clash with others he had previously spoken against his colleague and performer of the well-known character Dona Florinda. "I think Roberto never realized that this situation was tearing the group apart because he was obsessed. Speaking badly about her in front of Roberto would have meant losing their friendship and losing everything. Now I can say that he became obsessed with her," Aguirre said in 2015 , a year after Chespirito's death, who died in November 2014. However, the artist later contradicted himself, as seen in the viral video. "Graciela, there was a moment when she felt responsible for the triumph. It was like she was in charge, and he was in charge, and Roberto obeyed, Roberto very docilely, and that helped Roberto say, 'This is it,'" the actor expressed. He even applauded Florinda Meza's role in the comedian's life and work. "Roberto wouldn't have become what he was if he hadn't separated from his wife and moved in with Florinda. I think Florinda cared for him so much, supported him so much, inspired him so much that he went on to do great things," he added. Yo crei que estas declaraciones de Ruben Aguirre habian sido creadas con IA, y resulta que no, si existe esta entrevista, que lamentable! pic.twitter.com/pw5FBnIgXy Juana Pena (@Chris_Montz) July 28, 2025 Ruben Aguirre's statements not only go against what he had said on other occasions, but also vindicate Meza as an artist, despite all the negative opinions expressed by his colleagues such as Maria Antonieta de las Nieves "La Chilindrina" and Carlos Villagran "Kiko" and Edgar Vivar "Nono." Chespirito's romantic life was at the center of the HBO MAX series, which was produced by two of his children and in which, according to Meza, the artist's position, who was Gomez Bolanos' second wife, was not taken into account. Originally published on Latin Times One of the best parts about shopping at Costco is the free samples, but there are certain rules that shoppers have to follow to get those tasty morsels. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media One of the best parts about shopping at Costco is the free samples. The wholesaler offers them in its frozen food section, bakery, prepared foods section and pantry snacks area. Workers affiliated with Costco often wear hairnets and gloves are ready to greet you as they prepare the trays with those tasty treats. But before you go and take one of those tasty treats on your next visit to Costco, be aware that there are certain rules that shoppers have to follow. Heres what you need to know. Can you have more than one free sample at Costco? The answer is generally yes, with some caveats. If you want to grab another sample or multiple flavors of a certain sample, it is generally okay to take them. As long as youre not grabbing the whole tray and being considerate of other people who want to take a sample, the people who work the counter will happily hand you another if you ask nicely. Are there any limits on who cant get free samples at Costco? While most Costco patrons can get free samples at Costco within reason, there are some limits as to who cannot get free samples. According to Costcos shopping policy, Members are welcome to bring children and up to two guests into the warehouse, but they shouldnt leave their kids unattended. That policy extends to the workers giving out free samples. The rule is that they will not give free samples at Costco to unaccompanied children unless a parent is present. One employee who hands out free samples posted on Reddit that this policy is in place because children can be allergic to something, and it is best to have a parent or guardian present to ensure the child isnt eating something that could make them sick. When is the best time to get free samples at Costco? Rules aside, if youre looking for the best time to get free samples at Costco, its best to go on Saturday or Sunday between 1 p.m. an 2 p.m., according to an employee familiar with the free samples schedule at Costco. Mondays and Tuesdays are also good if you would like to avoid the crowds, but avoid weekday evenings as sampling opportunities may be sparse. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips. The Netflix murder mystery Untamed was initially promoted as a limited series, but its now been renewed for a second season. Season 1, which premiered on July 17, was a self-contained story with a beginning, middle, and end. Given the shows limited series status, it seemed possible that Untamed was a one-off. However, the shows popularity it garnered 24.6 million views in its first week and the casts comments about wanting to return gave fans hope for season 2. And those hopes were not in vain. I am absolutely thrilled that we get the chance to bring another season of Untamed to life, season 1 star Eric Bana said in a statement to Variety on Tuesday, July 29. The response to season 1 has been a testament to the incredible effort by our crew to deliver something truly unique. Warning: Spoilers ahead for season 1 of Untamed. Bana plays Kyle Turner, a National Park Service Investigative Services Branch (ISB) special agent at Yosemite National Park. During season 1, viewers learned that Kyle and his ex-wife Jill (Rosemarie DeWitt) had a young son named Caleb who was abducted and killed in the park several years prior. Still grappling with the loss of his son, Kyle loses himself in his cases, the latest of which involves a woman named Lucy Cook (Ezra Franky), whose body falls off El Capitan in Yosemite. Eric Bana on "Untamed." Netflix After several twists and turns, Kyle learns that his mentor and friend, Chief Park Ranger Paul Souter (Sam Neill), was secretly Lucys biological father. Paul confesses that he shot Lucy after she repeatedly blackmailed him for money and then takes his own life. After closing Lucys case, Kyle finally feels ready to leave Yosemite behind at the end of season 1. He gives his partner Naya Vasquez (Lily Santiago) a box of Calebs old toys for her son before driving off to his next chapter. READ MORE: Netflix renews 8 shows see which series is only getting one more season What will season 2 of Untamed be about? While no plot details have been revealed just yet, it seems likely that season 2 of Untamed will follow Kyle to his next assignment at another national park. Hell probably solve another mystery once there. I cant wait to take Kyle on his next journey. Massive thanks to Netflix, John Wells Productions, Warner Bros. Television and our fans, Bana said in a statement. Its unclear whether season 1 stars like DeWitt and Vasquez will reprise their roles for season 2, but Vasquez is definitely interested. I am waiting for the phone call. Im like, Find me on the horse on the mountain. Im ready to go, she told Us Weekly earlier this month. Season 1 of Untamed is available to stream on Netflix. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips/. 2024318 : Natasha OTTAWAZINE 2017 Sandy Hill Calls for inhalation spaces grow after 2 supervised injection sites close https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/ottawa-supervised-consumption-injection-inhalation-site-close-1.7132166? People prepare inhalable drugs inside and smoke outside, says director The temporary closure of two supervised injection sites in Ottawa highlights the need for space where people can more safely inhale illicit drugs, the director of one of the sites says. The Somerset West Community Health Centre is one of two locations that have halted their supervised injection services after staff reported feeling unwell. Both centres have said harmful fumes from drugs being heated up were factors in the closure. (Sam Konnert/CBC) On Friday, both the Sandy Hill and Somerset West community health centres halted service at their supervised sites until further notice pending investigation by the province. Staff at both sites said harmful fumes had been emitted when drugs were heated for inhalation. All other harm reduction services at both sites remain open. The director of the Sandy Hill Community Health Centre's program which includes supervised injection said clients are using the facility to prepare drugs for inhalation, which is not allowed. Users then go outside to inhale them. "Our overdoses used to occur just inside our safe injection site," said Wendy Stewart. "Now, 25 per cent of our overdoses are occurring outside our [site] and most of them, if not all, are related to inhalation." The supervised injection site inside the Sandy Hill Community Health Centre also paused operations last week pending an investigation by Ontario's Ministry of Health. (Guy Quenneville/CBC) Having supervised inhalation sites in Ottawa would both protect workers and save lives, she said. An Ottawa Public Health report last year found the rate of accidental opioid overdose deaths caused by inhalation more than doubled to 39 per cent in 2022 from 16 per cent four years earlier. Its data shows 93 people died from a confirmed opioid overdose in the first six months of 2023, the most recent data available. The Somerset West centre's executive director Suzanne Obiorah said in an email it has applied to Health Canada for permission to allow clients to snort, swallow and inject drugs under staff supervision in its outdoor courtyard. The exemption would not allow inhalation, but "as we learn more and more about drug usage in the community, we are also learning about the need for safer inhalation services," Obiorah said. Workers splitting efforts to keep users safe A member of the grassroots group Overdose Prevention Ottawa (OPO) said having safer inhalation sites would help concentrate resources and stop people from overdosing in private. CBC spoke with Leah Podobnik last month when the Sandy Hill centre began detecting an animal tranquilizer in drug samples. "We need to set up spaces where people can go and inhale their substances so we don't have three people overdosing outside and two people overdosing inside," she said. That would also help prevent harm reduction workers splitting their efforts and "running outside and dealing with people overdosing in snowbanks," Podobnik added. OPO operated its own supervised injection site, which included an inhalation tent, in a Lowertown park for several months in 2017. It closed following pressure from local political leaders and the opening of the Sandy Hill site. Overdose Prevention Ottawa operated its own supervised injection site in a Lowertown park for several months in 2017. The site included an inhalation tent. (Overdose Prevention Ottawa) The OPO site was "run by activists who saw the importance of it," Podobnik said, adding that inhalation sites have traditionally been excluded from the province's response to the overdose crisis. In 2022, Toronto's Casey House became the first in Ontario to offer indoor supervised inhalation. Stewart thinks it's essential Ottawa be able to offer the same. "Often drug policy and legislation tends to lag behind the current need," she said. "This is the next step in terms of saving lives and actually having appropriate interventions in place." Sam Konnert Reporter is a reporter with CBC News in Ottawa. He can be reached at sam.konnert@cbc.ca or @SamKonnert. The Monday morning, July 29, 2025 crash in Lowhill Township involved drivers from Tamaqua, Schuylkill County; and Allentown, state police said. A man was injured Monday morning in a two-vehicle collision along Route 100 in Lehigh County, state police said. Trooper Nathan Branosky, public information officer with Pennsylvania State Polices Troop M, told lehighvalleylive.com the accident happened around 7 a.m. near Kernsville Road in Lowhill Township. The crash involved a 2014 GMC Savana, driven by a 44-year-old man from Tamaqua, Schuylkill County, and a 2023 Mack Truck, driven by a 34-year-old man from Allentown. The GMC driver was taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest in Salisbury Township for treatment of injuries. A condition was not immediately available Tuesday. Whether the Mack truck driver suffered any injuries was not immediately known. WFMZ-69 News reported significant traffic backups and delays from the accident for over two hours. Pennsylvania State Police continue to investigate what led up to the collision.Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust.Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. The Federal Trade Commission says scammers are impersonating government agents to convince people to buy and surrender gold bars, calling it a growing and dangerous trend. Chris McGrath/Getty Images A Lackawanna County man is accused of posing as a courier in a gold bar scam that duped a Lehigh County woman out of more than $3 million, authorities said. Dharmikkumar J. Sutariya, 25, of Scranton is charged with two counts felony theft; one count conspiracy to commit theft; one count felony receiving stolen property; and three counts felony criminal use of a communication facility. Court records show Sutariya is awaiting to be arraigned on the charges. He currently is in custody in Luzerne County. Lehigh County District Attorney Gavin P. Holihan, Pennsylvania State Police, and Kingston Borough, Luzerne County police announced the charges Monday afternoon. Court records did not immediately show any attorney information for Sutariya. According to court records, incidents occurred from February to May, involving a female victim from Upper Milford Township. Incidents spanned both Lehigh and Luzerne counties. On June 10, Pennsylvania State Polices Troop M barracks was contacted by a detective with the Kingston Borough police. Borough police received a tip from the 68-year-old woman in May that she was duped out of $18,000 from her bank account, authorities said. An unknown person allegedly used her bank account to purchase thousands in online pornography, the victim reported. The victim initially was embarrassed and didnt want to contact law enforcement, police said. This is a tactic that scammers use to get victims to comply, the Lehigh County District Attorneys Office said. In the scheme, the victim later received a notification with a phone number, asking her to call someone whom she thought was a fraud representative. The victim instead spoke with a scammer pretending to be a Federal Trade Commission agent, the DAs Office said. The fictitious agent then informed the victim her bank account was compromised and she needed to remove all funds, authorities said. The victim was then instructed by the scammer to buy gold bars and give them to couriers who would then retain the gold for safe keeping, the DAs Office said. Authorities said the couriers in reality were part of the alleged scam. The victim from February through May made large purchases of gold bars, providing them to the couriers, authorities said. Sutariya is accused of traveling on May 18 to the victims home, posing as a courier, and receiving two gold bars valued at more than $215,400 from the victim. Holihan is warning the public, especially senior citizens, not to give out personal bank information over the phone or online. Banks and other financial institutions wont ask for passwords or account information over the phone or by email, the DA said. Anything that is of value and untraceable gold, jewels, gift cards and cryptocurrency is very often linked to fraud and will not be requested as legitimate payment." This case is being investigated by Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Francis J. Vanore and Kingston Borough Police Detective John Anthony. It will be prosecuted by Lehigh County Senior Deputy District Attorney Ramma R. Mineo, supervisor of the Elder Abuse Task Force. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Miley Cyrus plans on celebrating Hannah Montana in 2026 in a very special way. Mary Altaffer/Evan Agostini Miley Cyrus is planning on celebrating her iconic Hannah Montana character in a big way next year. 2026 will mark 20 years of Hannah Montana, which is the Disney Channel series that launched her career to where it is now. It first premiered on March 26, 2006, and the series went on for four seasons, and was just two episodes shy of 100 episodes for the entire series. In a recent interview with Sirius XM, Cyrus plans to, design something really special to celebrate the character and show. It really was the beginning of all of this, Cyrus said in the interview. Its crazy to think that I started as a character that I thought was going to be impossible to shed. While there has been no confirmation on what exactly this special commemoration is, fans are speculating that it could be a tour of some sort or a one-off concert. Others have speculated that it could be a documentary, limited-edition merchandise or she may even re-record original songs from the series now that she is legally able to. While fans would love a full cast reunion, Cyruss former co-star Emily Osment, who played Lilly Truscott, has distanced herself from reprising the role. Back in 2024, Cyrus was honored as a Disney Legend and honored Hannah Montana for getting her career to where it is today. This award is dedicated to Hannah and all of her amazing, loyal fans, she said at the D23 event. To Hannah Montana fans who have Been Here All Along, you better get excited for what Miley Cyrus has in store for 2026. And keep your eyes peeled for those ticket sites to try and secure something once she announces her official plans! Hi, Im Nicole, NJ.coms expert live events and deals writer! Ive made it my mission to find the absolute cheapest tickets for the biggest artists, like Taylor Swift, Billy Joel, Sabrina Carpenter, & more. If you missed the general sale or presale for your favorite artist, you dont have to panic. Ive already done the hard work of sifting through tickets and finding you the best price. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicole Iuzzolino can be reached at niuzzolino@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips. It starts with the largest pipe bomb in American history and ends in the biggest manhunt of the 20th century. But thats just scratching the surface. On Wednesday, Alabama Media Group will release American Shrapnel, an eight-part podcast series examining one of Americas most notorious domestic terrorists: Eric Robert Rudolph. The Olympics explode on a July night in 1996. The largest pipe bomb the country has ever seen. A string of bombings shakes Atlanta for the next year. Thousands of photos and videos produce one blurry image of the attacker, a photo so grainy the FBI called him Blob Man. Agents zero in on the wrong man, the media follows suit, and the real bomber slips away. Until Birmingham. In Alabama, the Blob Man finally makes a misstep. He detonates another bomb, but this time someone sees something. A college student asks himself a question: Why, when everyone else is rushing to see what happened, is that man running away? That curious student breaks open the search for Rudolph. But Rudolph disappears hundreds of miles away into the Nantahala Forest in North Carolina. Years pass. No trace. Does he have help? Is he planning more attacks? Join two-time Pulitzer Prize winner John Archibald and award-winning journalist Becca Andrews as they track the path of destruction from the bombings, through the manhunt, and back to the twisted politics that fueled it. Youll hear the stories of survivors, radicals and unlikely heroes. Archibald and Andrews spent three years combing through thousands of FBI files, speaking with survivors, witnesses and experts to to take listeners into the radicalization of the serial bomber Rudolph. Youll hear from family members, from the police officer who issued the BOLO and a rookie cop who made the surprising arrest, from the lawyers who argued both sides of the case, and, for the very first time, youll hear from the eyewitness who changed everything. Youll also hear about the people and forces that radicalized Rudolph, from the Pacific Northwest to the Carolina Mountains. This isnt a story of the past. The anger that fueled it has only grown stronger today. American Shrapnel, a series by Murrow-winning Alabama Media Group, will be available on all podcast platforms on July 30. Follow here on Apple Podcasts. This October 2017 file photo shows a birds-eye view of a freight train on Norfolk Southern Corp.'s rail line through Easton crossing the Delaware River into Phillipsburg. Saed Hindash File Photo | For lehighvalleylive.com Union Pacific wants to buy Norfolk Southern in a $85 billion deal that would create the first transcontinental railroad in the U.S, and potentially trigger a final wave of rail mergers across the country. The proposed merger, announced Tuesday, would marry Union Pacifics vast rail network in the West with Norfolks rails that snake across 22 Eastern states, and the District of Columbia. The nation was first linked by rail in 1869, when a golden railroad spike was driven in Utah to symbolize the connection of East and West Coasts. Yet no single entity has controlled that coast-to-coast passage. The railroads argue a merger would streamline deliveries of raw materials and goods nationwide by eliminating delays when shipments are handed off between railroads. The AP first reported the merger talks earlier this month a week before the railroads confirmed the discussions last week. In this photo provided by Union Pacific, from left, Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena shakes hands with Norfolk Southern CEO Mark George at the meeting where both men signed the agreement to merge the two railroads they lead to create the first transcontinental railroad in the United States on Monday, July 28, 2025 in Omaha, Nebraska. Bill Sitzmann/Union Pacific via AP Any deal would be closely scrutinized by antitrust regulators that have set a very high bar for railroad deals after previous consolidation in the industry led to massive backups and snarled traffic. If the deal is approved, the two remaining major American railroads BNSF and CSX will face tremendous pressure to merge to create a second transcontinental railroad so they can compete. The continents two other major railroads Canadian National and CPKC may also get involved. The Canadian rails span all of that nation and feed into America. CPKC rails stretch south into Mexico Some big shippers like chemical plants in the Gulf may be wary of the deal due to fears of a monopoly that could would wield immense influence over rates, but other major rail customers, like Amazon and UPS, may be in favor if it means packages will arrive more quickly and reliably. Those big companies, along with unions and communities across the country that the railroads cross, will have a chance to weigh before the U.S. Surface Transportation Board. Consumers could benefit if the transcontinental rail does reduce shipping rates and delivery times. Union Pacific said that combined, the railroads would improve delivery times. The Los Angeles skyline above the Union Pacific LATC Intermodal Terminal is seen on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. AP File Photo/Damian Dovarganes Theres speculation that this deal might win approval under the pro-business Trump administration, but the STB is currently evenly split between two Republicans and two Democrats. The board is led by a Republican, and Trump will appoint a fifth member before this deal will be considered. Union Pacific is offering $20 billion cash and one share of its stock to complete the deal. Norfolk Southern shareholders would receive one UP share and $88.82 in cash for each one of their shares as part of the deal that values NS at roughly $320 per share. Norfolk Southern closed at just over $260 a share earlier this month before the first reports speculating about a deal. Union Pacifics stock fell nearly 2% to $224.98 in premarket trading, while Norfolk Southerns stock dipped more than 3% to $277.40. Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena, who has championed a merger, said lumber from the Pacific Northwest and plastics produced on the Gulf Coast and steel made in Pittsburgh will all reach their destinations more seamlessly. It builds upon President Abraham Lincolns vision of a transcontinental railroad from nearly 165 years ago, and will usher in a new era of American innovation, Vena told investors Tuesday. U.S. railroads have already undergone extensive consolidation. There were more than 30 major freight railroads in the early 1980s. Today, six major railroads handle the majority of shipments nationwide. Western rival BNSF, owned by Berkshire Hathaway, has the war chest to pursue an acquisition of CSX, to the east, if it chooses. CEO Warren Buffett is sitting on more than $348 billion cash and the consummate dealmaker may want to swing for the fences one last time before stepping down as planned at the end of the year. Buffett recently threw cold water on reports that he had enlisted Goldman Sachs to advise him on a potential rail deal in an interview with CNBC, but he rarely uses investment bankers anyway. Buffett reached an agreement to buy the parts of the BNSF railroad he didnt already own for $26.3 billion after a private meeting with its CEO more than a decade ago. Yet theres widespread debate over whether a major rail merger would be approved by the Surface Transportation Board, which has established a high bar for consolidation in the crucial rail industry. Thats largely due to the aftermath of a consolidation in the U.S nearly 30 years ago that involved Union Pacific. It merged with Southern Pacific in 1996 and the tie-up led to an extended period of snarled traffic on U.S. rails. Three years later, Conrail was divvied up by Norfolk Southern and CSX, which led to more backups in the East. Were committed to making sure that doesnt happen in this case, said Norfolk CEO Mark George. He added that the railroads will spend the next two years planning for a smooth integration before this deal might get approved. A Union Pacific freight train travels along the tracks Thursday, April 17, 2025, in Eloy, Arizona. AP File Photo/Ross D. Franklin Just two years ago, the STB approved the first major rail merger in more than two decades. In that deal, which was supported by big shippers, Canadian Pacific acquired Kansas City Southern for $31 billion to create the CPKC railroad. There were compelling factors in that deal, however, that combined the two smallest major freight railroads. The combined railroad, regulators reasoned, would benefit trade across North America. The deal announced Tuesday would merge the nations largest freight railroad, with the smallest. Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern said they expect to submit their application for approval within the next six months and hope the deal would get approved by early 2027. They predict that they would be able to eliminate $1 billion in costs annually, but Vena said that every union worker at both railroads should still have a job. The railroads also predict they would be able to boost revenue by at least $1.75 billion each year by winning more business from trucking companies and other railroads. On Tuesday, Norfolk Southern reported a $768 million second-quarter profit, or $3.41 per share, as volume grew 3%. Thats up from $737 million, or $3.25 per share, a year ago, but the results were affected by insurance payments from its 2023 East Palestine derailment and restructuring costs. Without the one-time factors, Norfolk Southern made $3.29 per share, which was just below the $3.31 per share that analysts surveyed by FactSet Research predicted. By JOSH FUNK Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. More than a dozen residents say they have become the target of a local politicians hostility, causing them to become more concerned about their safety in their small town. During a public meeting on Monday night, several residents accused 24-year-old Christopher Allen of doxxing addresses, publishing divisive rhetoric on social media and demonstrating cruel behavior to gain political clout. Electric Picnic have officially announced their lineup for the Comedy Arena at this year's festival. Big names will take to the stage at the Stradbally festival, where music and comedy will mix for a weekend of fun. Famous comedians Dara O Briain, Foil Arms and Hog and Jarlath Regan will headline the comedy stage, bringing smiles and belly-aching laughter to Laois. Pictured: The Electric Picnic Comedy Arena 2025 lineup "If comedy is the means to deal with a world in crisis, then the Comedy Tent at this years Electric Picnic will provide bucket loads of succor for these troubled times we find ourselves living in right now," organisers said. "A myriad of mirth, mayhem, mischief and comedic delight is in store as some of the biggest names in the industry alongside a whole host of original, exciting, emerging comics descend upon the rolling lawns of the beautiful Stradbally estate." It's hard to believe that one of the UK and Irelands favourite stand-up comedians and national treasure Dara O Briainis making his Electric Picnic debut this year. Daras imaginative and ridiculously funny comedy is a masterclass in intelligent stand-up and his early afternoon slot on Saturday 30th is not to be missed. With over 2 million likes and followers on Facebook and 500 million online views, comedy sketch troupe Foil Arms and Hoghave been a worldwide phenomenon. Fast, funny and furious, they have sold out arenas all over the world and their appearance at this years Picnic will be the Foils only Irish festival show this year. The hottest ticket in comedy right now, comedian, writer, illustrator and podcaster, Jarlath Reganis the sort of comic you want to take home to meet your mam. His unstoppable, relentless never-ending flow of fantastic tales and over the top mind-blowing observations, cause near hysteria wherever he performs. Chris Kentis making a long overdue return to Electric Picnic. A compelling and master storyteller, he lures an audience into his quiet beta-male world with stories that are engrossing, evocative and wryly witty. Another returnee is Belfasts Shane Todd, described as a modern day King of Comedy. His freewheeling storytelling style has made him a star at home and all over the world. "We are super excited to announce that five of the most talked about and popular comics on the circuit are also making their Picnic debuts this year," organisers said. Cork native and Barcelona resident Kyla Cobblerbrings a freshness to the scene with her honest, blunt and deep storytelling style, combined with her powerful energy onstage have made her the big new talent you dont want to miss. Katy Boyleis an Irish comedian living in New York City, her debut TV special Ill Do it Myself has hit over 1 million views on YouTube. Since swapping her corporate career for comedy, Tik Tok star Rachel Galvoaka The Shite Feminist has become an overnight sensation. With a sold-out Olympia Theatre under her belt, her sharp wit has earned her a fiercely loyal fanbase across social media. Vittorio Angeloneis an Italian Irish comedian from Belfast who has accelerated through the comedy ranks at an anxiety inducing rate since being nominated for best newcomer at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2022. Kilkennys Mike Rice has just completed his first tour of the UK and Ireland to sold out audiences and critical acclaim. A phenomenal wordsmith and world class raconteur, this is dirty, hysterical comedy at its best. Andrew Maxwellis one of Irelands best-known comics, with countless TV appearances, he has even gone and won Celebrity Mastermind which for anyone who has been in a room with him for over five minutes will come as no surprise. There is no end to affable Dubliner Gearoid Farrellystalents. To be in his audience is a joy. His blend of quick wit and impeccable comic timing has made him one of the best loved acts on the circuit. "Emma Doran is a comedian, podcaster and self-proclaimed chancer. Dry and sarcastic, she has her finger firmly on the pulse of society and is wickedly funny," organisers shared. Expect strong sets from the likes of affable Dub Eric Lalor, award winning Hot Young Guys podcasters and comedy gods Killian Sundermann, Shane Daniel Byrneand Tony Cantwell. Irelands Best Kept Comedy Secret John Colleary, Bridget and Eamon creator and star Bernard OShea, Canadian slacker comic Glen Wool, silly and politely offensive Martin Angolo, brains, banter and brilliance from Danny OBrien, sassy, sexy, saucy and side -splittingly funny, Aideen McQueen, Joe.ie content creator Ryan Carrick, Cherry Comedy Club host Fiona Frawley, London based Irish comic Peter Flanagan and exciting new comedy star Galway girl Aoife Dunne. Down through the years, Electric Picnic has sought to provide a platform to the best of the new breed of comedians, so prepare to be wowed by the stars of tomorrow when Siomha Hennessy, Steve Spade, Emer Maguire, Bronagh Diamond, Darragh Bourke and Eddie Mullarkey play the biggest gig in their careers thus far. Of course, a Comedy Circus this big needs a ringmaster par excellence to keep the show moving along and who better than your host and MC for the weekend than the wonderful Karl Spain. The Electric Picnic Comedy Tent opens at 1.30pm on Saturday August 30th and Sunday August 31st 2025. Electric Picnic is Irelands biggest music and arts festival and will take place this year from 29th to 31st August. The 600 acres of rolling fields at Stradbally Estate will provide the perfect backdrop for the end of summer extravaganza as Picnic fan favourites return with Trailer Park, Croi, Salty Dog, Providencia, Fish Town and much, much more! Keep an eye out for more lineup announcements coming soon. Justin Kelly has been announced as the next Garda commissioner. Mr Kelly will begin a five-year term from September 1, replacing Drew Harris who is to retire after seven years as commissioner. Mr Kelly is currently a deputy Garda commissioner and previously served as an assistant commissioner who had responsibility for tackling serious and organised crime. Mr Harris is to retire after 41 years of service to policing across the island of Ireland. He congratulated Mr Kelly on his appointment and described his dedicated and highly professional service in his more than 30 years in An Garda Siochana. During this time, he has held many significant portfolios, preventing and tackling crime and terrorism, Mr Harris said. This has included senior roles in the areas of national security, cybercrime, organised crime and domestic and sexual violence. Justin is an internationally recognised police leader who has built coalitions with other law enforcement agencies and partners that have disrupted and dismantled trans-national organised crime gangs. As Deputy Commissioner, Security, Strategy and Governance, Justin has also played a major role in delivering the Operating Model that has delivered benefits for front-line Gardai, Garda staff, and most importantly, the public. Justins extensive experience and expertise in leading a wide range of operational and organisational areas will be of immeasurable benefit to him as Commissioner. I look forward to working with Justin in the weeks leading up to him becoming Garda Commissioner in September 2025. Personally, I want to wish him and his family all the best in his leading this great organisation and continuing its mission of keeping people safe. The selection process identified 14 candidates and included two interviews and a presentation, afterwhich Mr Kelly was selected as the preferred candidate. Taoiseach Micheal Martin, Justice Minister Jim OCallaghan and Mr Harris marked the announcement with a photocall at Government Buildings on Tuesday but did not take questions. In a statement, Mr Martin said: The role of the Garda Commissioner is hugely important and challenging. Justin is highly qualified, with a proven track record in leadership roles in the force and extensive experience in many areas of policing, including national security, organised crime, and domestic and sexual violence. He also paid tribute to Mr Harris for leading An Garda Siochana with great distinction through a period of significant reform in the organisation. I wish him the best of luck for the future. In a statement, Mr OCallaghan said: The role of Garda commissioner is one of the most challenging and impactful leadership positions in Irelands public service and the appointment process was suitably rigorous. I am satisfied that Justin Kelly is both qualified and particularly well suited to the role of commissioner, given his extensive leadership experience over the last 30 years in some of the most challenging issues facing An Garda Siochana, including national security, domestic and sexual violence, and organised crime. I know Justin is fully committed to providing a high-visibility, highly trusted policing service to the public. Rapidly growing Portlaoise town has maxed out its electricity usage, with urgent work underway to solve an immediate grid capacity issue. Laois County Council CEO Michael Rainey revealed the extent of the issue at the council's monthly meeting on Monday, July 28. He says that a new substation is needed to meet the town's needs. The electricity shortage was highlighted recently in the Leinster Express / Laois Live by homebuyers who cannot get into their expensive new homes because electricity cannot be connected. Mr Rainey gave an update on what is being done to address the power shortage. I'm meeting the ESB monthly. They've responded. Before this came into the media, we were well aware of infrastructural constraints. This is a national problem. But there is an immediate grid capacity issue right now in Portlaoise. There are works underway in Portlaoise substation to resolve this. It will be resolved in a couple of weeks. However this town needs a further substation. We're actively engaged with the ESB, the Laois CEO said. He emphasises however that Laois is open for business. Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald raised the issue, calling for a meeting with ESB Networks and Uisce Eireann. We need a meeting very shortly with the ESB and Irish Water. We need to look for future infrastructure for Laois and Portlaoise in particular. We saw the episode where people bought houses but can't get electricity. I'm informed that the Mountrath Road is a blackspot for electricity. That's where we have our IDA. We always had difficulty getting investment. If we have no electricity we have no hope at all. What's the point of zoning land if we don't have the infrastructure to go along with it? We are hanging on a thread here, going from piece to piece. I am calling for a special meeting and get the ESB and Irish Water to join us and see what we as a council can do to help. We need to know as councillors. There is going to be no electricity for new developments. We won't have a hope of an IDA factory, she warned. Read also: Pricey Portlaoise apartments replacing derelict hotel must be funded by state A Portlaoise couple are among 80 families who have been unable to move into their new homes at the Sand Wood development in Summerhill, Portlaoise, because it hasnt been connected by the ESB. Andrew and Julie Dollard have handed over a 48,000 deposit, and are also paying rent on a two bedroom apartment in Portlaoise and have also had to fork out to store their new furniture for the home meant to be ready last February or March. Their mortgage approval was also on the point of elapsing. It is absolutely horrific. It is just a pure and utter sh*t show and nobody wants to hold their hands up, he told the Leinster Express/Laois Live this month. Read that full story here. Uisce Eireann (UE) said it is carrying out critical and complex repair works to a major pipeline that connects Ballymore Eustace Water Treatment Plant and the Saggart Reservoir over the August Bank Holiday Weekend. This is a major pipeline that supplies one third of the Greater Dublin Areas (GDA) drinking water. UE added: "We have identified sections of the pipeline that are at risk of failing which could lead to a prolonged outage if not addressed. "We have also identified several leaks which we will address during the works." To facilitate these critical repair works, customers in Kill, Arthurstown, Rathmore, Athgoe and Tipperkevin will be impacted by a water outage from 10pm Friday 1st August to 3am Sunday 3rd August. Alternative water supplies will be provided. Customers in other parts of Kildare may possibly experience interruptions to their water supply including low pressure, discoloured water, or water outages. We are making a major appeal to customers in Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow to conserve water during these essential repair works. Regional Operations Manager at Uisce Eireann, Stephen Burke, said: This major pipeline can only be shut down for up to 28 hours before the water storage levels become too low, which could lead to widespread supply disruption. Therefore, the specialist repair crews have a very tight deadline to finish the repairs and refill the pipeline with water. We will work through the day and night this weekend to complete these essential works as quickly and safely as possible. "We acknowledge the inconvenience caused by the interruptions to water supply and thank the communities in North Kildare for their patience and cooperation while we deliver these essential works." Customers who experience intermittent loss to supply can access alternative water supplies at the following locations: Rathmore National School W91 VK46 Kill Equestrian Centre, Newtown Customers are reminded to use their own containers when taking water from the tanker and, as a precaution, boil the water before drinking. READ ALSO: No more water taps planned for this Kildare cemetery. As per best practice, most homes and businesses will have on-site water storage to provide a backup source of water for sanitation purposes. Uisce Eireann advises customers to familiarise themselves with their storage capacity. Declan Healy, Programme Manager at Uisce Eireann, explained the complexity of the works. We have extensively planned and prepared for carrying out these complex works over the last 9 months. Specialist teams will repair five leaks and replace a damaged section of pipeline. To do this, the water flowing through the pipe will be turned off temporarily and the pipeline will be drained. Draining the pipe will allow specialist crews will go inside the pipeline to repair five active leaks using bespoke methods. Another specialist team will remove 35 metres of degraded pipeline and install a new section of pipeline. The repair's progress will be monitored closely and Uisce Eireann will keep customers updated as early as possible on the location(s) and duration of any prolonged impacts including supply disruptions, should they develop. Following this type of work, occasionally issues such as cloudy water (air bubbles) or internal airlocks may arise. For advice on how to resolve these issues, please visit www.water.ie/help/ supply/after-an-outage/ . The Uisce Eireann customer care helpline is also open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact us on X @IWCare with any queries. For updates please visit the Water Supply Updates section of www.water.ie. Uisce Eireann acknowledges the inconvenience caused by interruptions to water supply and thanks communities for their patience and cooperation while we deliver these essential works. How do I prepare for the planned water supply disruptions? Before and during the planned disruption to supply, Uisce Eireann advises customers in the affected area to: Ensure you have enough drinking water: Before the planned disruption, fill a jug of water and store it in your fridge. Don't drink the water from your hot water or bathroom taps as this is not drinking water. Turn off all pre-programmed appliances: All pre-programmed appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines or any other water-using devices should be switched off during the planned supply disruptions. This is particularly important overnight on Saturday August 2 and Sunday August 3 as your dishwasher or washing machine may empty your tank. Make sure all taps in your property are turned off: This is important as it can avoid airlocks or flooding when the water returns. Use the water sparingly Most storage tanks last up to 24 hours but emptying the tank may cause an airlock. How do I Conserve Water? Customers can help to avoid water outages for themselves and others by using less water. Water demand in the GDA has already reached unprecedented levels. These planned repair works will put increased pressure on the supply of drinking water. Reducing your water use will help safeguard water supply during the repairs, particularly to vulnerable and high-risk users including hospitals and care homes. There are several key things that the public can do to help protect water supplies, including: A TD representing Kildare South has criticised the increase in Local Property Tax (LPT), which was discussed at a recent Kildare County Council (KCC) meeting. Sinn Fein TD for Kildare South, Shonagh Ni Raghallaigh, expressed her disappointment at the decision, which came about following two voting sessions at the latest full KCC meeting yesterday (July 28 last). A motion tabled by Social Democrats councillor Nuala Killeen, which would have meant an effective 10 per cent reduction failed to win sufficient support. It was seconded by Sinn Fein councillor Noel Connolly and was voted down by 25 to 9. Instead, a majority of councillors voted in favour of a counter proposal to retain the current rate of tax, which has a 10 per cent increase "baked-in" as a result of previous increases agreed by KCC. That motion was put forward by Fianna Fail Cllr Suzanne Doyle, was seconded by Fine Gael Cllr Evie Sammon, and was passed by 27 votes to 10. READ NEXT: Multi-million Euro padel facility set for Goffs, Kildare Speaking about the decision, Deputy Ni Raghallaigh voiced her view that the vote was "a slap in the face to the many households in Kildare" who made their voices heard through a previous public consultation. She added: "The message was crystal clear: families are under massive pressure. "Groceries, fuel, rent, childcare, mortgages everything is up, and yet the council has now voted to add another burden on already stretched households." Deputy Ni Raghallaigh continued: "We in Sinn Fein opposed this increase; it is the wrong move at the wrong time. "Increasing the LPT does nothing to address the real needs of working people in Kildare it just shifts the burden further onto their shoulders." Sinn Fein TD for Kildare South, Shonagh Ni Raghallaigh. File photograph She also took aim at the Labour Party's support for the increase she said: "For a party that claims to represent working people, their decision to side with Fine Gael and Fianna Fail on this will not be forgotten by the many families they have let down today." A representative of the Labour Party has been contacted by the Leinster Leader for comment in response to her criticism. Conversely, Deputy Ni Raghallaigh praised the councillors who opposed the increase: "I want to thank Cllr Noel Connolly and those who voted with us to stand up for ordinary workers and families. "We will continue to fight for fairer funding models that dont rely on regressive taxes like this to fund basic local services." She concluded: "We need to build a system that delivers for ordinary people not punishes them." Deputy Ni Raghallaigh notably made headlines earlier this month when she welcomed the publication of a review pertaining to the Education for Persons with Special Education (EPSEN) Act 2004. However, the Deputy, who is also her party's spokesperson on Special Education, also warned at the time that "the real test lies now in delivery". She also made national headlines last month when she used the Provisional IRA phrase "Tiocfaidh ar la" ("Our day will come") in the Dail. As noted by the Irish Independent, the phrase was used at the end of a speech on extending voting rights to Irish citizens abroad, in particular for presidential elections, and marked the first time the phrase was used by a party member speaking in the chamber. In response, Deputy Ni Raghallaigh defended her use of the phrase, telling the Sunday Independent: "I ended my speech saying that it is becoming shameful for us as a state, and us working towards a united Ireland an Ireland for all. We must take this step, put it right and our day will come." When she was asked by the publication if she was "deliberately channelling" the slogan of the Provisional IRA, she replied: "I have replied here, and have nothing further to add." READ NEXT: 16,800 passports issued in Kildare already this year One-off payments for businesses are not a sustainable response to 15% tariffs imposed by the US, the enterprise minister has said. Peter Burke said that assisting companies in Ireland in a similar way to Brexit and Covid-19 funds would not be appropriate, as the trading world had changed. The Irish government has welcomed the certainty of a trade deal between the EU and the US but said more detail is required to assess the impact on the Irish economy. Taoiseach Micheal Martin said nobody was welcoming 15% tariffs with open arms but the deal avoided a ruinous trade war. Speaking before briefing Cabinet on the trade agreement struck by US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the weekend, Mr Burke said Brexit-style supports were not the answer. This is a new environment. It is a new trading world. There are huge tensions now on the geopolitical landscape, and that looks like its going to remain into the future, he said. So we have to try and navigate those sustainably and the answer is not really setting up a Brexit-type response right now, it is working specifically with companies, trying to assist them, like we have been, in a sustainable way. One-off payments are not sustainable and I think we have to be honest about that. What is sustainable is that if you make your production process more efficient, that allows you to retain that high-value market despite the tariff rate with the US economy. I think one of the key things were looking to establish is that theres no stacking in tariffs, and that could be a significant win, if its fleshed out correctly as we think it is, that you wont have a 15% on top of previous tariffs, particularly in our agrifoods and drinks sector. It will be important to see what the carve-outs are in that sector. He added: We know from butter, for example, and other products that are exported, particularly in the agrifood sector, they have 17% plus additional tariffs on them currently. So if they are not stacked, it potentially could be advantageous to that sector. But again, this is very much all in the air. We havent seen the detail of it, and until we see the clear detail, we wont be able to make a clear determination. He said a tariff response team in Enterprise Ireland had been set up, representing around 950 companies that export to the US and around 68,000 jobs in Ireland. He said there had been 174 drawdowns of the strategic consultancy grant since June. He also said a Market Discovery Fund had been established to find out other trading options in 41 trade agreements the EU has across 172 countries. He said that while some clarity had been found in certain areas, they were awaiting details of what the trade deal means for semiconductors and life sciences. I do think that potentially theres good room for the agrifood sector and our drinks sector, because our drinks are location specific. And obviously it will be important that that will be recognised in any deal, because its an important market and for the Irish economy. We have our life science strategy coming through later on this year that will underwrite the support for the sector, as well as our competitive action plan, which will be published on the first week of September again, that will go into where we need to make our economy more efficient. Uisce Eireann has welcomed Governments "renewed commitment to water infrastructure investment through the revised National Development Plan (NDP), which outlines a record 274.5 billion in Irelands capital investment" and in a statement to the Leitrim Observer, it stated that "this prioritisation of water infrastructure reflects the critical role that resilient water services play in enabling sustainable growth, supporting housing delivery and protecting the environment across Ireland." The updated plan includes an additional 34 billion in capital funding compared to the original 20212030 framework. This brings the total investment to 102.4 billion over the next five years, with a further 100 billion earmarked through to 2035. READ MORE: Sligo-Leitrim Minister welcomes milestone surgical hub for North West The revised NDP focuses on transformational infrastructure across key sectors including housing, water, energy, and transport, alongside major investments in health, disability services, and education. Last week the Leitrim Observer reported that Uisce Eireann came under attack at the latest Ballinamore meeting where Cllr Gary Prior said that something had to be done about constant water outages in the area. Cllr Prior said the current water system is "crumbling at the moment in the south Leitrim area from the Uisce Eireann end of things and it doesn't seem to be fit for purpose". The meeting heard that businesses in the Ballinamore area are losing money due to the outages with Cllr Prior stating that the "hairdressers had to shut down and local food outlets had to close for the evening and are asking if the council is going to reduce their rates." READ MORE: Leitrim man sentenced to 3 years for violent assault While it didn't specifically mention any plans for Leitrim, the statement from Uisce Eireann continued that "as Ireland plans for a growing population and increasing housing demand, Uisce Eireann is focused on delivering the water and wastewater infrastructure that will underpin this growth" and that the Water Supply Project, Eastern and Midlands Region "will be central to meeting long-term demand and ensuring environmental sustainability. These transformative investments will provide the capacity and resilience needed to support housing, economic development, and climate adaptation in the decades to come. The commitment of ringfenced funding for these projects in the NDP is to be greatly welcomed." READ MORE: Leitrim to host Ukraine Independence Day celebrations The statement concluded: "We are looking forward to engaging with Government and state agencies to deliver on our ambitious targets, and to plan, procure, and deliver critical water infrastructure efficiently at scale. We will be working with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on the next steps in relation to funding timelines. Uisce Eireann remains committed to delivering safe, climate-resilient, and future-proofed water services that support Irelands social, environmental, and economic goals." InvestigationBy acquiring Unibet, FDJ United briefly inherited Trannel, a Maltese subsidiary embroiled in major legal disputes in Europe, before urgently selling it off to an opaque entrepreneur. That sale could end up costing France's leading gambling company. Stephane Pallez, president of La Francaise des Jeux, in Paris, February 16, 2022. ERIC PIERMONT/AFP A briefly owned subsidiary could cost the operator of France's national lottery, formerly known as Francaise des Jeux and now FDJ United (FDJ), hundreds of millions of euros. Trannel International Limited, registered in Malta, has been embroiled in multiple lawsuits across Europe (Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and Norway). Now, it is proving to be a legal and financial time bomb for FDJ. The company came under the French group's control on October 11, 2024, following the 2.5 billion acquisition of Kindred, the Swedish giant that owns the prestigious brand Unibet. The deal was supposed to elevate FDJ to the status of European champion in online betting. Fully aware of the legal risks hanging over its subsidiary, FDJ got rid of Trannel in less than three weeks. Officially, the French group stated that the goal was to achieve "a rapid, complete and definitive exit (...) from locally unregulated markets." However, the sale of Trannel, a move long in the making, could in fact prove disastrous for the French company. An investigation by Le Monde and the independent Dutch media outlet CasinoZorgplicht.nl, which specializes in online casinos and player protection, reveals that the former subsidiary continues to expose FDJ to major legal, financial and media risks, threatening the French group's European ambitions. You have 86.01% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. The agreement reached on Sunday, July 27, between US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen favors the United States, which will now impose a 15% tariff on goods imported from the European Union (EU), without reciprocity. Nevertheless, in its relationship with the US, the 27-member states are not powerless. According to Eurostat, the European Union's official statistics office, the EU has consistently increased its trade surpluses with the US over the decades. In 2024, these surpluses related to goods trade totaled 198 billion for the entire Union. Read more Subscribers only Tariffs: EU hands Trump a political win to avoid trade chaos All US presidents, each in their own way, have tried to address this trade deficit with Europe. Their main challenge lies in the fact that the US is a major geopolitical power, while the EU has prioritized economic and commercial strength above all else. Today, the US produces little and sells poorly in Europe. Reorganizing in an economic war takes time and involves complex stakes. Unable to quickly correct the trade deficit with Europe, the US has chosen to tax European exports to its market. In response to these measures, most member states and members of the European Parliament have made strategic choices. The Germans, the Italians, and almost all of Europe have purchased F-35 aircraft produced by Lockheed Martin. The company then acted as a lobbyist in the US to protect German civilian interests from tariffs and to allow them to sell their cars. Trump, for his part, waited for European states to confirm their F-35 purchases before threatening to impose a 30% tax on European goods entering the US. Imbalances of interest between the two sides Constant bargaining takes place between Europeans and Americans. At the end of 2024, European Central Bank president Christine Lagarde said that to avoid a trade war, it was necessary to buy "made in USA." Similarly, Antonio Costa, president of the European Council, explained in US media that European purchases of US-made weapons would help reduce the American trade deficit. You have 58.14% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. Court to Rule on Whether Former LTA Acting Chair Kamara Will Face Prosecution We are very hopeful, Ngafuan said. Liberias case will be before the MCC Board next week, and the signals were getting are strong. At the Liberia Maritime Authority, we dont just manage ship registrations. We are responsible for all maritime-related matters, including safety at sea, seafarer welfare, and protection of our marine environment under international law, the Chairman of the Liberia Maritime Authority, Commissioner Neto Lighe, stated. Mr. Barlea, 2nd from left is being received by traditional leaders in the district Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. A SECTION of the N20 Limerick to Cork road has been closed this Tuesday morning following a serious road traffic collision. The single-vehicle collision involving a motorcycle occurred in the townland of Ballyfookoon between Croom and Patrickswell shortly before 1am, confirmed gardai. READ MORE: Number of animals killed on Limerick's roads is revealed after question "The motorcyclist, a male aged in his 20s, was removed to University Hospital Limerick for treatment of serious injuries. "The N20 road remains closed this morning between the N21 and ORourkes Cross to facilitate a technical examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. "Local diversions are in place," said a garda spokesperson. One motorist said traffic is "chaotic" with long delays. A total of eight fire appliances from stations in the city, Rathkeale and Kilmallock responded to the emergency. Firefighters from Kilmallock and Rathkeale remain at the scene this morning. Gardai are appealing for witnesses to this incident to come forward. "Any road users who may have relevant camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the area at the time are asked to make this footage available to investigating gardai. "Anyone with information is asked to contact Newcastle West garda station at 069 20650, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any garda station," said a garda spokesperson. A former garda who impersonated a colleague online and incited men to come to her home and rape her has been jailed for seven years. Shane Flanagan, aged 39, with an address in County Clare, impersonated the woman on a fetish website and on Facebook and engaged in graphic online discussions with users of these sites about sexual violence, rape, cannibalism, torture and physical violence. He also shared the woman's personal information including her address, photos of her and her daughters and screenshots from the Strava app, showing her running route. Flanagan pleaded guilty to two counts of inciting two men to rape the woman on dates between November and December 2020. He further pleaded guilty to six counts of endangering the woman and her daughters between 2018 and 2020, and to one count of possession of four images of child sexual abuse material, known in law as child pornography, on January 7, 2021. He has no previous convictions. READ NEXT: Imposing sentence at the Central Criminal Court this Tuesday, Ms Justice Eileen Creedon said Flanagan's offending showed a breath-taking disregard for the safety of the injured parties and that he would have been more alive to these dangers due to his background as a garda. She imposed a sentence of eight years with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions for three years. Previously, the court heard he created the accounts using the woman's personal information, and shared details including her address, and photos of her and her daughters Flanagan's full address and the garda stations where he has served cannot be published in order to protect the anonymity of the injured party in the case. During a sentencing hearing at the end of June, Detective Garda Paul English told Anne-Marie Lawlor SC, prosecuting, that the woman and Flanagan were friends and there had never been any romantic or sexual history between them. He said she was extremely shocked to find out that Flanagan was the one who had been impersonating her online. If you gave me a list of 500 names of people that could have done this to me, I would never have guessed it was him, he told the investigation. Reading her victim impact statement, the woman said Flanagan was a fellow garda, someone she had trusted and called a friend, who was supposed to uphold the same professional values. She said he not only betrayed her, but took her career. She said Flanagan plotted to have her and her daughters attacked, and that he planned for men to find us and carry out unspeakable acts of violence. She said this was a betrayal beyond words. She said she no longer feels safe in her own home, has developed anxiety and panic attacks, and that her trust in others has been damaged. She said no sentence could undo the harm caused and told the court this was not just a betrayal of friendship but a calculated predatory act of violence that has left lifelong scars for her and her daughters. The woman asked the court to impose a just sentence to reflect the safety of others and restore trust in the institution of An Garda Siochana. READ NEXT: The court heard that the woman became aware that someone was using her image on Fetlife.com after a user of that website contacted her on her genuine Facebook page in 2020. In December 2020, she created an account on Fetlife and while pretending to be male, interacted with the user pretending to be her. The court heard during this interaction, information was shared about her, her address and that she has two teenage daughters. She then made a complaint to gardai. Evidence was heard of an extensive investigation, which connected the Fetlife account impersonating the woman to Flanagan. His home was searched on January 17, 2021 and items included a phone and laptop was seized. Flanagan provided passwords for these devices and for an email address. An analysis of these devices by the Garda National Cyber Crime Unit identified over 2,000 screenshots from Pulse, 32 records of missing persons and 18 images of garda age identification documents. The log in details for the Fetlife.com account were autosaved to the browser and this site was accessed 4,089 times between October 2020 and mid-January 2021. Four images of child abuse material were also found on the laptop. The investigation also found that Flanagan had created a false Facebook account in the name of 'Laura O'Riordan', again using the injured party's information. Detective Sergeant English told the court that hundreds of images of the woman, including 219 doctored ones were found as part of the search. Two of the users of Fetlife.com who interacted with Flanagan while he pretended to be the woman provided statements to gardai. Flanagan incited them to break into the woman's house and rape her. Both genuinely believed they were talking to a woman who had a fetish for 'CNC' or consensual non consent. These situations involve one party, typically female, agreeing for another party to carry out a rape at an agreed location. Ms Lawlor told the court these men believed they were speaking to the woman, who was consenting to them individually coming to her home to rape her, which she had consented to in advance. Details of these sexually graphic conversations were read to the court. One of these men, who lives in the UK, told gardai that this person must really hate the victim to go to these lengths. In one message to this man, Flanagan pretending to be the woman said her fantasy was for someone to stalk her, break into her home while she was asleep or to kidnap her while she was jogging. Flanagan shared details of the woman's address, her Eircode and that she has two daughters with this man. Details of Flanagan's interactions with 12 other users of Fetlife.com, who could not be identified by gardai, were described to the court. These conversations included graphic descriptions of sexual violence, torture, rape and cannibalism. Flanagan also shared information including the woman's address, a Google Street view of her home and invited the users to come to the woman's home to rape her. He also told these users that the woman was a single parent with two teenage daughters. Flanagan, while pretending to be the woman, also asked some users if they were available that night. Some of these 12 users indicated they lived in Ireland, or in towns or cities near to the woman's address, the court heard. Flanagan replied: Oh cool, youre not living too far away, when one man said he lived nearby. Another user, who also indicated they lived near to the woman replied good, secure, abandoned buildings to have some fun in, when Flanagan referred to a particular town. Flanagan also shared a route jogged by the woman with another user. Under the alias of Laura O'Riordan', Flanagan engaged in similar conversations using Facebook Messenger. He shared photos of the woman, her children, gave out her address, Eircode and shared a screenshot of a route she runs taken from the Strava app. One of the exchanges on Facebook outlined a roleplay scenario about the rape and torture of the woman and her daughters while another referred to spiking the children using sleeping tablets. Detective Sergeant English said the 'Laura O'Riordan' Facebook account came to light during the investigation. Gardai identified that Flanagan reported it to the social media site as a fake account following the search of his home, but Facebook refused to delete it. Ms Lawlor said the endangerment charges against Flanagan relate to the invitation to these individuals to carry out violence on the woman represented a significant risk to her life and those of her children. In a victim impact statement, the woman's older daughter said Flanagan had been a family friend for a long time and she now looks back on past events wondering if she missed any signs. She said she experienced a loss of trust in others and spoke of the impact of this going on in the background while attending school. She also spoke of experiencing nightmares and noted that her mother had tried to protect them from finding out what had happened for as long as possible. Flanagan was interviewed six times in February 2022. He made some admissions, including to ownership of the devices. He confirmed knowing the woman and when material was put to him replied everything youve shown me there, that was me. He apologised to the woman and admitted communicating with between 20 and 30 individuals while pretending to be the woman. He described it as harmless roleplay. Detective Sergeant English agreed with Padraig Dwyer SC, defending, that his client retired from the gardai in March this year and had an unblemished record of service. Testimonials from family members, probation and psychological reports were handed to the court. Mr Dywer read a letter of apology from his client to the court. Flanagan said he felt deep guilt, shame and understands now that I did not just cause fear, I destroyed a sense of fear, dignity and trust and stole the victims' peace of mind. He said this has been a sobering and painful experience for me and that he is seeking help to address his issues. Defence counsel asked the court to take into account his client's guilty pleas, the contents of the reports and that his time in custody will be more onerous as he was a garda. Flanagan was suspended from the force in 2021, retiring in March this year. Mr Dwyer noted the reports refer to his client suffering with suicidal ideation. His client is assessed at low to medium risk of re-offending. Counsel said a protective factor is the absence of hostility to women and his client's actions appeared rooted in imagination or fantasy, not reality, though in this case, the actions did translate into more than just a fantasy. LIMERICK will mark the anniversary of the birth of Daniel OConnell with a historic walk around the city next week. Wednesday, August 6, marks exactly 250 years since the birth of the reforming politician, whose name is given to Limericks main thoroughfare, and who is honoured with a statue. It is at this memorial overlooking O'Connell Street where the free walk will kick off from, at 3pm on Saturday, August 9. READ MORE: Limericks Big Day Out just got bigger with Basshunter addition The tour will explore OConnells legacy, the origins of the monument in his name, and how Limerick evolved during his lifetime. It also reflects on how his ideas resonated locally. The tour will take in The Augustinian Church on OConnell Street, where the role of faith in Daniel OConnells life will be explored. Also on the agenda is a visit to the Peoples Park, and Limerick Courthouse, where his career as a barrister will be appreciated. There will be tales of mass gatherings organised by the former member of the British parliament, which were termed monster meetings. The tour will explore his relationship with cities like Limerick, where his influence helped shape political consciousness in the 19th century. It will wind up near the River Shannon where attendees will be asked to pause to take a moment to reflect on the politicians enduring legacy: not just as a political leader, but as a symbol of hope, reform and the power of the people. Its expected the commemorative tour will conclude around 5pm. All are welcome - but comfortable footwear is recommended! The commemorative event comes as part of a broader calendar of civic engagement in Limerick. Already this year, Kilmallock played host to the State-led National Famine Commemoration. OConnell was born in Kerry, which will host a State commemorative event the day before the walk in Limerick. He also represented Co Clare in the British parliament, with a wide range of events planned in the Banner county. Dublin will also host a number of events. Technology companies need an extraordinary amount of electricity to power data centers at the core of the artificial-intelligence race. They dont want to foot the entire bill. Across the U.S., utilities are asking tech companies including Google, Microsoft and Amazon to pay more to connect their new data centers to the power grid. Utility officials are concerned that the cost of new power infrastructure needed to serve data-center demand could raise rates for regular customers. Utilities are seeking assurance that tech companies will pay for any potential surplus if the AI boom spurs the development of more power lines and plants than U.S. data centers ultimately need. The tech companies, meanwhile, say they are committed to paying their fair share of power costs, but that they shouldnt have to pay substantially more for grid investments needed to serve them because some of those upgrades also benefit other customers. U.S. power companies are already charging more to cover a surge in spending to upgrade the aging grid, address risks related to climate change and support drivers of power demand such as data centers and electric vehicles. Edison Electric Institute, an industry trade group, expects that utilities will invest nearly $203 billion each year in 2025 and 2026, substantially more than any year since 2000, when the group began tracking spending. Dominion Energys efforts to get data-center developers to commit to longer-term contracts has prompted pushback from companies including Google, Amazon and Microsoft. In Virginia, which has the most data centers in the world, utility company Dominion Energy this year proposed a series of measures that would require data-center developers to commit to longer-term electricity contracts and agree to pay for certain amounts of powereven if they use less. Dominion says the measures are necessary for an unprecedented build-out of data centers in the state, which serves 70% of the worlds internet traffic. By the end of last year, Dominion had received requests from data-center developers that would require 40 gigawatts of electricity, enough to power at least 10 million homes. A Virginia legislative commission determined last year that data-center operators there have so far paid their share of electricity costs, but that new measures will be needed to ensure they keep doing so as they use much more power. It concluded that data-center demand likely will drive up costs for all utility customers. The People of the Commonwealth of Virginia were not asked in advance about subsidizing DATA CENTERS with our energy bills," one state resident told regulators in a written comment. Were we to have been, we would have roundly said Oh just heck no." Tech companies are investing tens of billions of dollars in the AI race, much of it to build the data centers. Microsoft expects to spend $80 billion this year. Google this month increased its expected investment this year to $85 billion. Amazon expects to spend $100 billion. Some are building data centers in regions where there isnt yet a large number of them, leading utilities to make costly upgrades to meet the huge new power demands. Rural states including Louisiana and Tennessee are now home to enormous projects that local officials are hoping will bring jobs and boost tax revenue. Utilities in Kansas, Missouri and Texas are debating who should pay for the build-out. Ohio this month became one of the first states to require companies to pay more of the costs associated with connecting data centers to the grid after receiving requests for more than 50 times the amount of power used by its existing data-center customers. Tech companies and other data-center developers opposed the requirements. The Data Center Coalition, a trade group, is looking at ways it could push to change it. Arlington, Va., resident Michael Lowe said he is concerned that the data-center expansion will slow Virginias transition to renewable energy and drive up costs for all customers as Dominion builds out its network to serve the centers. I certainly believe that the cost of that should be borne by the companies," he said. In the early days of data-center development in Virginia, data centers required between 10 megawatts and 20 megawatts of electricity, Dominion said. Now, most projects require at least 300 megawatts, enough to power tens of thousands of homes. Dominion filed the new proposals as part of a regulatory proceeding now pending at the Virginia State Corporation Commission, which determines how much the utility is allowed to charge for service. Google, Amazon, Microsoft and other data-center developers earlier this month pushed back on Dominions proposals, saying they go too far in shifting risk onto the companies. Each said the measures would drive up the cost of development and slow growth in a market where it already takes years for data centers to connect to the grid. Dominion, Google, Amazon and Microsoft declined to comment. Dominion estimated that it will have to invest more than $40 billion in the state over the next five years to serve data-center demand, meet clean-energy targets and complete other necessary work. That is roughly equal to the value of its entire system there. We think this is the most important decision thats being made in America about who pays for energy," said Chris Miller, president of the Piedmont Environmental Council, which advocates to protect smaller utility customers. How do you make sure residential users arent being asked to subsidize these giant global corporations?" Alphabet-owned autonomous vehicle firm Waymo has announced plans to launch its robotaxi service in Dallas next year, marking a strategic move to broaden its footprint across the United States. The company will operate in partnership with Avis Budget Group, which will manage fleet operations for the service. This partnership represents the first time Avis is directly involved in supporting a robotaxi fleet. Under the arrangement, customers will book rides through Waymos mobile application, while Avis will be responsible for vehicle maintenance, infrastructure, readiness, and depot operations. The companies confirmed that the Dallas project is part of a multi-year agreement, with intentions to extend the collaboration to other US cities over time. Aviss involvement in robotaxi fleet services positions it as a potential rival to Uber and Lyft, both of which are also investing in autonomous vehicle operations through collaborations with technology partners. The announcement reflects the complex dynamic between Waymo and Uber, which act as both collaborators and competitors in the autonomous mobility space. Waymo currently operates ride services via its app in Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, while also offering rides through Ubers app in Phoenix, Austin, and Atlanta. In Austin and Atlanta, Waymos fleet operations are handled by Avomo, a company backed by Uber. In Miami, where Waymo is set to launch next year, the company will rely on infrastructure support from Moove, another Uber-affiliated fleet manager. Also Read | Waymo applies to test self-driving cars in NYC as robotaxis race heats up Dallas is expected to become a competitive market for autonomous ridesharing, with both Uber and Lyft planning their own driverless offerings. Uber is working with local startup Avride for a deployment later this year, while Lyft aims to roll out its service in collaboration with Mobileye, an Intel spin-off, in 2026. Waymo has been steadily expanding its presence in recent months. The firm recently extended its operational area in Austin and has commenced testing in New York City. It has also announced plans to begin trials in Philadelphia, signalling continued growth amid mounting competition, particularly from Tesla, which is also pursuing autonomous ride services. (For a Reuters live blog on U.S., UK and European stock markets, click or type LIVE/ in a news window) * FTSE 100 up 0.4%, FTSE 250 down 0.3% * AstraZeneca rises after Q2 profit beats expectations * Greggs falls on lower first-half profit * Entain rises after BetMGM raises FY outlook * Inchcape slips on HY profit drop July 29 (Reuters) - London's main stock indexes were mixed on Tuesday as investors assessed a spate of mixed corporate updates as well as the fallout from the newly signed U.S.-EU trade deal. The benchmark FTSE 100 rose 0.4% as of 0934 GMT, while the domestically focused midcap FTSE 250 index was down 0.3%. Healthcare stocks led the sectoral gains, up 1.8%, with AstraZeneca rising 2.8% after the drugmaker beat second-quarter revenue and profit expectations. Chemical stocks lost 2.5%, dragged down by Croda International, which fell 5.1% after the chemical company reported first-half sales below estimates. Industrial miners lost 1%, tracking lower copper prices. Glencore and Anglo American fell 2.4% and 1.2% respectively. Among other corporate updates, Games Workshop surged 6.3%, to top the FTSE 100 index, after the miniature wargames maker reported a nearly 30% jump in annual pre-tax profit. Entain rose 1.4% after the company's U.S. sports-betting joint venture with MGM Resorts called BetMGM raised its full-year 2025 revenue and core earnings forecast. Inchcape lost 9.6%, top loser on the FTSE 250 midcap index, after the car distributor reported a 4% drop in first-half adjusted pre-tax profit at constant currency. Greggs fell 4.9% after reporting a 14% fall in first-half profit. A survey showed British shop prices rose by the most in more than a year in the 12 months to July and food prices grew more strongly. The Bank of England is expected to cut borrowing costs on August 7 for the fifth time since August last year. Meanwhile, investors weighed the impact of a new 15% levy on most European Union goods, which is significantly higher than pre-2025 levels. Ahead of the August 1 tariff deadline, U.S. President Donald Trump said a blanket 15% to 20% "world tariff" rate would be extended toward trading partners who do not negotiate separate trade deals with the U.S. New Delhi, The India-UK trade pact has incorporated a mutual recognition agreement framework to facilitate smoother entry of medical devices certified by domestic regulatory agencies into the British market, an official said on Tuesday. The framework will help Indian manufacturers expand market share in the UK vis-a-vis its global competitors like China, Brazil, and Vietnam who face non-preferential duty. "The free trade agreement includes a mutual recognition agreement framework allowing medical devices certified by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation or the Indian Certification of Medical Devices to access the UK market more freely," the official said. Medical devices and instruments will be exported to the UK at zero tariffs, down from the current duty range of 2 per cent to 6 per cent, benefiting Indian manufacturers of surgical and diagnostic equipment. The UK medical devices market was valued at USD 32 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 69 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 7.19 per cent, representing a significant opportunity for Indian medical device manufacturers, the official said. A bilateral regulatory cooperation framework will also be pursued between CDSCO and MHRA potentially taking the form of a Mutual Recognition Agreement . "The agreement will incorporate provisions for joint inspections, data sharing, harmonization of technical documentation, and training programmes between Indian and UK regulators, which will help build confidence and trust in each other's regulatory frameworks, thereby enhancing market access for our exports," the official said. India remains committed to a fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial agreement and is engaging with the UK to consider pathways for regulatory cooperation, including recognition of CDSCO approvals. Further to prevent routing of third country goods via the UK into India, there are provisions for strong Rules of Origin in the comprehensive economic and trade agreement, which define the origin of a product and determine whether it qualifies for preferential tariffs. The combination of rigorous RoO, digital certificate of origin systems, and customs monitoring will ensure that only legitimate products made or significantly transformed in the FTA partner benefit from tariff concessions. Electronics manufacturing services (EMS) firm Kaynes Technology is in a unique position. It's currently the only listed company in India that's dabbling in two high-interest sectorselectronics and semiconductors. This could lift its earnings, to be announced on Wednesday, as it expects a number of future-looking projects to get closer to yielding revenue. However, this isnt to say that there are no concerns. Let's dive in to the details. How has the company performed recently? A 49% sequential rise in operating revenue to 985 crore in the previous quarter missed analyst expectations (Bloomberg had projected Q4FY25 revenue to cross 1,000 crore). Net profit rose 76% sequentially to 116 crore as the company saw growing revenue from its design-led manufacturing efforts in product engineering and industrial internet of things (IoT). To be sure, design-led manufacturing allows EMS firms to command a premium for designing a product instead of simply assembling it. This expands the profit margin and in turn contributes more to a companys net earnings than low-margin electronics assembly. Jairam Sampath, chief financial officer of Kaynes, said during an earnings call with analysts on 16 May, Our key strategies include growth in new geographies through organic acquisition, strengthening our design-led manufacturing capabilities, and deepening our technology footprint in manufacturing. During FY25, we have taken significant steps to further our strategy implementation." The company went on to project 60% year-on-year revenue growth for FY26, the first step of which will come under scrutiny in its June-quarter performance. However, while Kaynes has reported sequential growth in both revenue and profit in all of the past four quarters, its important to note the company missed analyst expectations for growth in revenue and net profit in Q3 and Q4 of FY25. What do analysts expect this quarter? This has led to analysts lowering revenue and net profit expectations for the coming quarter. A Bloomberg poll of 14 analysts, viewed by Mint, projected Kaynes Technologys Q1FY26 operating revenue at 740 crore, a 25% sequential drop but up 47% year-on-year. Net profit is expected to come in at 66 crore, according to a poll of 13 analysts a 43% sequential drop but up 31% year-on-year. Praveen Sahay, research analyst at brokerage firm Prabhudas Lilladher Capital, also downgraded the stock from 'accumulate' to hold in a note to investors on 19 May, citing significant uptick in the stock price". Brokerages retain long-term optimism but warn that the company may have near-term concerns as analysts await clarity on how Kaynes can reap the benefits of the ministry of electronics and IT's recently announced components incentive scheme as well as government incentives for the production of printed circuit boards (PCBs), a key product for the company. A note to investors by brokerage firm JPMorgan India on 8 July projected India's electronics manufacturing would grow at 32% annually until FY30. Kaynes is expected to outperform the sector, with projected annual growth of 46%. This, Mehta said, could help the company grow revenue more than three-fold to more than $1 billion (about 8,900 crore) by FY28. Its FY25 revenue was just over 2,700 crore ($315 million). Management commentary and guidance Management guided for 60% year-on-year growth in FY26 on 16 May. While analyst projections collated by Mint pointed to a sequential revenue decline in Q1FY26, historical data showed the electronics manufacturing sector typically starts most fiscal years slowly, with production and revenue ramping up later in the year. In the call with analysts last quarter, Sampath said that the company was on track to produce the first mass-scale PCBs at its plant by the end of FY26, and that chip production from its outsourced semiconductor assembly and testing (osat) plant was expected to begin in the next fiscal year. The company also expects its margin to increase as it pushes clients to sign design-led manufacturing deals across the automotive, aerospace and industrial electronics sectors. While Kaynes also reported an all-time-high order pipeline from clients at 6,600 crore, Sampath added that the execution of ordersturning projected business into revenuehas an 18-month window. As Kayness order pipeline was considerably lower at 4,100 crore in FY24, it could be set for a muted Q1FY26. Acquisitions in Q1 During the quarter, the company increased its shareholding in its wholly owned Singapore entity Kaynes Holding Pte Limited, and spent 347 crore to fully acquire Canadian electronics manufacturer August Electronics Inc. The latter, management said on 9 May, would contribute to the companys planned global expansion. Also Read | How next-gen semiconductor chips will supercharge gadgets Shortly after the end of the quarter, on 28 July, Kaynes announced the acquisition of an 11% stake for 43 crore in Tranzmeo IT Solutions, a company that specialises in making sensor-based optic fibre cables that are critical for data transmission in enterprises such as oil and gas, natural resource management and more. How has the stock performed? Kayness shares were at 5,433.50 on BSE at 2 pm on 29 July, down around 1.5% on the day owing to expectations of a muted first quarter, even as its long-term projections remained strong. The stock is down 31% from its 52-week high of 7,825 on 1 January, but is up 14% since the start of the fiscal year, having fallen below 3,900 in February. Palo Alto Networks is in talks to acquire CyberArk Software in a deal that could value the Israeli cybersecurity firm at more than $20 billion, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. Shares in CyberArk rose about 13%, while Palo Alto Networks' stock fell roughly 2%. The Santa Clara, California-based company could finalize a deal for CyberArk as soon as later this week, the report said. No comment from firms CyberArk declined to comment on the report when contacted by Reuters. Palo Alto did not immediately respond. Cybersecurity deal activity has been robust in recent years as large corporations have increased spending on security tools. Google-parent Alphabet said in March it would buy Israeli cybersecurity startup Wiz for about $32 billion. Rising competition among all-in-one cybersecurity platforms has reshaped the industry, making several companies attractive takeover targets for larger rivals and private equity firms. (Bloomberg) -- Royal Philips NV increased its profitability outlook as the impact of the trade war was not as severe as it feared. The Dutch medical-technology firm now expects full-year adjusted operating earnings margin of as much as 11.8%, a 50 basis points increase from its previous outlook, according to a statement Tuesday. Shares in Philips rose 14% in early trading in Amsterdam, the biggest intraday advance in a year. Its a combination of the strong performance plus tariffs that led to a change in guidance, Chief Executive Officer Roy Jakobs said in an interview. The MRI and ultrasound machine makers second-quarter sales increased 0.6% to 4.3 billion ($4.98 billion), compared with estimates for a 0.5% contraction in a Bloomberg survey. Overall, we see this as a positive release for Philips with improving underlying performance at the company testament to some of the turnaround actions taken, Barclays analyst Hassan Al-Wakeel said in a note. Tariff Impact In May, the Amsterdam-listed company lowered its profitability outlook for the year by 100 basis points, blaming the cost of dealing with tariffs and estimating a hit of as much as 300 million. It now sees an impact of as much as 200 million. On Sunday, the European Union reached a deal with the US with Brussels accepting a 15% tariff on most of its exports, dodging an imminent trade war. More than 40% of Philips sales are in the US with a third of production inside the country. Philips is asking for tariff exemptions for the healthcare sector. The US is a very important market for us, Jakobs said in an interview with Bloomberg TV, adding that the company is expanding its presence and investment there. Turnaround Plan Philipss stock was down 19% in the year before Tuesday as the company suffered a string of setbacks. A settlement last year over a 2021 recall of faulty sleep apnea devices made way for sluggish growth in China and an expected hit from the trade war. Since taking the helm at Philips in October 2022, Jakobs has cut jobs, revamped leadership and simplified operations. He is emphasizing patient safety and developing new products, with the company spending more than 9% of sales on innovation last year. Still, headwinds such as weak consumer sentiment in China and the implementation of anti-graft measures for its health care sector have dampened demand. Sales in China declined again in the second quarter, but were offset by growth in India and Latin America. Philips comparable orders increased 6% in the second quarter, up from 2% in the previous three months. The company said Tuesday it signed an agreement with Indonesia for its Azurion image-guided therapy system. The multi-year deal is worth hundreds of millions of euros, according to a person familiar, who asked not to be identified discussing private information. The company also increased its free cash flow outlook to between 200 million and 400 million, from slightly positive before. --With assistance from Lisa Pham, Sarah Jacob, Anna Edwards, Kriti Gupta and Guy Johnson. (Updates with share move in second paragraph.) More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com (Bloomberg) -- Singapore Airlines Ltd. shares slumped the most in almost a year after the carrier posted a sharp decline in quarterly profit. The stock fell as much as 8.7% in early Singapore trading, the biggest intraday decline since Aug. 1, 2024. Net income dropped 59% to S$186 million ($145 million) in the three months ended June 30, the carrier said Monday. The weaker performance was largely due to losses at Air India, in which Singapore Air holds a 25.1% stake, and which wasnt part of last years results. An investigation into the fatal crash of Air India flight 171 in June is ongoing and the fallout is likely to continue to weigh on Singapore Airs performance. The Indian carrier cut capacity in the short-term to deal with operational challenges in the aftermath of the disaster. Despite the profit slide, Singapore Air remained positive about the months ahead, with robust demand across most regions in which it operates, though it did voice caution over geopolitical and macroeconomic volatility. The carrier offers the first glimpse as to how the headwinds are playing out in Asia, with major Western airlines painting a mixed picture. Earlier this month, American Airlines Group Inc. scaled back its earnings outlook after deep fare discounts to entice reluctant travelers, while Delta Air Lines Inc. gave a more upbeat outlook about demand and United Airlines Holdings Inc. said customers have resumed booking flights. Analysts had mixed reactions to Singapore Airs results, ranging from Citigroup Inc.s Kaseedit Choonnawat pointing to core profit missing estimates to Morgan Stanleys Divya Gangahar Kothiyal predicting passenger yields may soon start stabilizing, helping ease competitive sales pressures. JPMorgan Securities Asia Pacific Ltd.s Karen Li said the results will likely be deemed a major miss and downgraded the stock to neutral with a price target of S$7.00. It was trading at S$7.02 at 9:20 a.m. local time, having fallen as low as S$6.94. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com Billionaire investor Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway is set to offload close to one-third of its more than $4 billion stake in internet infra and domain name registry company VeriSign, according to reports. Till March 31, the company owned 13.29 million VeriSign shares, which is around 14.2 per cent stake, Reuters reported citing regulatory filings. Till closing time on July 28, at $305.98 apiece, Berkshire's holding was worth about $4.07 billion. VeriSign shares traded at less than one-sixth that level when Berkshire began buying, it added, noting that in after-hours trading, VeriSign fell 6 per cent to $287.77. Spokespeople for Berkshire and VeriSign didnt immediately respond to queries, a Bloomberg report said. Berskhire Hathaway to reduce holding below 10% Berkshire has held stake in the Reston-based (Virginia, US) VeriSign since 2012; and this 4.3 million shares sale would decrease its stakeholding to 9.6 per cent, as per a Reuters report. The prospectus also indicated that Berskhire may sell another 515,032 shares to meet demand. Notably, in the US markets, a stake over 10 per cent triggers regulatory obligations, it added. VeriSign will receive no proceeds from the sale, as per the statement. JPMorgan Securities is underwriting the VeriSign share sale, the report added. Also Read | Maharashtra issues new social media rules for government employees Berskhire share sale of VeriSign: What we know According to the Bloomberg report citing sources, affiliates of Berkshire are offering the 4.3 million shares for $285-290 each. The remaining shares beneficially owned by Berkshire will be subject to a one-year lockup, it added. The source added to BB that the share sale is expected to price overnight. Berkshire holdings Berkshire ended March with $347.7 billion of cash, and through that month was a net seller of stocks for 10 straight quarters. It had nevertheless been adding to its VeriSign stake as recently as January. Berkshire's smaller investments in technology-related companies have often been spearheaded by Buffett's portfolio managers, Todd Combs and Ted Weschler. Buffett, 94, has run Omaha, Nebraska-based Berkshire since 1965. He is expected to step down as chief executive at year end, and be replaced by Vice Chairman Greg Abel, 63. Buffett would remain chairman. Danish drug-making company Novo Nordisk has named Mazir Mike Doustdar as its new Chief Executive Officer on Tuesday. The company, known for its blockbuster diabetes and weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, made this announcement alongside lowering its earnings forecasts again. Doustdar, an executive in the company for over three decades, has been given the responsibility to tackle "recent market challenges". Doustdars background: Education, family and past roles Maziar Mike Doustdar has been working with Novo Nordisk since 1992. He started working in the company as an office clerk. However, he quickly rose through the ranks and became a key figure in the company's core business. He holds a BA in International Business from Webster University, Vienna (1994), and later went on to pursue an executive education from the Harvard Business School, specialising in Leadership & Strategy for Pharmaceutical & Biotech (2012). Also Read | Procter & Gamble names Shailesh Jejurikar as CEO Doustdar currently lives in Switzerland with his wife and younger son who are both Dutch citizens. He also has an elder son who lives in Scotland for his higher education. Roles and responsibilities Novo Nordisk announced the departure of its chief executive Lars Fruergaard in May this year, citing "market challenges" as the reason. Fruergaards position will be replaced by Maziar Mike Doustdar, who is currently serving as the companys vice president for international operations, reported AFP. In his current role, he leads almost 20,000 employees across five regions. Other than being an executive at Novo Nordisk, Doustdar also serves on Orion Corporation's board and the International Community School in Zurich's Board of Trustees. Also Read | Torrent aims to be among first cos to launch Wegovy, Ozempic generics in Brazil "We are confident that he is the best person to lead Novo Nordisk through its next growth phase," board chairman Helge Lund said. Procter & Gamble Co. has named its longtime executive Shailesh Jejurikar as the Chief Executive Officer of the company, it said Tuesday. Jejurikar joins the long list of Indian CEOs in the US that features Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadella, Aravind Srinivas Shantanu Narayen, Arvind Krishna, Neal Mohan and Leena Nair among others. The current chief operating officer of P&G, Shailesh Jejurikar, will assume his new role on January 1, 2026. The Indian-origin executive will replace Jon Moeller, according to a statement. Jejurikar is taking on the CEO role at a time when the consumer goods conglomerate, like other companies, is struggling to navigate US President Donald Trumps trade war and economic uncertainty. P&G, maker of Tide detergent and other household items, cut its annual sales and profit outlook last quarter, citing tariffs and volatility in consumer demand. P&G's Lead Director of Board Joe Jimenez expressed the Boards confidence in Jejurikar. Shailesh has been an integral part of P&G's leadership team with substantial contributions across multiple businesses and in both developed and developing regions, notably in Fabric Care and Home Care and most recently in P&Gs Enterprise markets," he said. "Shailesh is an outstanding leader, and the Company will benefit from his ongoing leadership to build on the strong foundation he has helped create. Who is Shailesh Jejurikar? Born in India, Shailesh Jejurikar, 58, completed his schooling from Hyderabad Public School. There, he was a classmate of Satya Nadella, according to a report by CNBC-TV18. Jejurikar completed his graduation from Elphinstone College in Mumbai and then enrolled himselft at IIM Lucknow for MBA. Jejurikar joined P&G in 1989, immediately after completing his MBA at IIM Lucknow. Joining first as as an assistant brand manager for Personal Health Care in India, he quickly rose ranks and became a key figure in the company's global operations. Also Read | Procter & Gamble sees demand recovery on good monsoon and as inflation softens Also Read | Procter & Gamble names Shailesh Jejurikar as CEO The incoming P&G CEO has been a part of the company's global leadership team since 2014, holding various senior leadership roles in categories, sectors and regions. He was promoted to the post of COO in October 2021. According to the company, Jejurikar helped build several of P&Gs core businesses including global Fabric Care and Home Care and in regions including North America, Europe, Asia and Latin America. New Delhi: Capital markets regulator Sebi on Tuesday levied a fine of 10 lakh on an entity for trading in the shares of HDFC Ltd and HDFC Bank while in possession of unpublished price sensitive information (UPSI) related to their merger. Sebi found that Rupesh Satish Dalal HUF had traded in derivatives of both HDFC entities on April 1, 2022 -- just days before the official announcement of the merger between HDFC Ltd and HDFC Bank on April 4, 2022. Rupesh Satish Dalal is the karta of Rupesh Satish Dalal HUF. What the probe revealed The regulator's probe revealed that Dalal had received UPSI through his son, who was in close and regular contact with a person (individual) who was an insider associated with Deloitte. Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP was engaged as the valuer for the merger exercise and the individual was part of the valuation team from March 29, 2022. The individual and Dalal's son were long-time friends and exchanged several calls in the run-up to the trades. Sebi also noted that a meeting between the two took place on March 31, a day before Dalal placed the trades. Sebi said the noticee (Rupesh Satish Dalal HUF) bought multiple call option contracts of HDFC Ltd and HDFC Bank Ltd on April 1, 2022, while being in possession of the UPSI. The regulator noted that once the information regarding the impending merger was disclosed, Rupesh Satish Dalal HUF immediately exited his positions on the same very date, i.e., on April 4, 2022. Thus, it is established that Rupesh Satish Dalal HUF has violated PIT (Prohibition of Insider Trading) regulations. The order came after NSE analysed the trading activity of various entities in the scrip of HDFC Ltd and HDFC Bank Ltd. Further, the bourse observed that the trading of certain clients including Rupesh Satish Dalal HUF pointed to the possibility of trading on the basis of UPSI. Consequently, the matter was forwarded to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) for investigation. The period was from November 01, 2021 to April 30, 2022. Apple sold the same number of iPhones in 2024 as it did in 2015, according to IDC. But Apple stock has jumped ninefold in that time. One reason for the continued run in the shares has been the various services Apple sells to people living their digital lives in its ecosystem. iCloud storage and other subscriptions, paid apps and app advertising, as well as payments related to web search, as a group, have quintupled since 2015, while device revenue has grown less than 40%. And those services generate significantly higher gross profit margins: north of 70%, estimates Bank of America, compared with roughly 30% to 40% for hardware sales. That means the services business has a greater impact on Apples profit than on its revenue. Bank of America analyst Wamsi Mohan credits Apples choice to break out the rapidly growing, highly profitable services segment as a reason investors started paying a bigger earnings multiple for Apple shares. Yet after a big boost during the pandemic, growth of services has moderated, and two clouds are visible on the horizon that could reduce or even eliminate key parts of the business. A primary component of Apples services business is the fees Apple collects on sales in its App Store, which drove almost a third of the total services revenue in the fiscal year that ended in September, according to Bank of America estimates. Some developers say the fees are usurious and have appealed to regulators or sued Apple to force changes. A California judge ruled that Apple must allow app developers to sell their iPhone services from their own websites. In that scenario, she said, Apple cant collect any fee at all. In a worst-case scenario, Bank of America estimates that Apple could lose 10% of its net profit. But that assumes all large developers shift all of their app purchases outside the App Store, which is very unlikely, and Apple is appealing the ruling in the U.S. In the European Union, a law called the Digital Markets Act requires similar changes to allow developers to avoid Apples fees. Some experts have expressed concern that other countries could follow suit. Apple disagreed with the California judges ruling, a spokeswoman said. It also appealed the ruling of the European Commission, saying the changes it is forcing the company to make go beyond what the law requires and are bad for users. The next piece of Apples services businessand one of its most lucrativeis the money Google pays so it gets to be the default search provider in Apples Safari web browser. It accounted for about 6% of Apples overall revenue in the 12 months through March, estimates Bank of America. But because it has essentially no costs associated with it, it falls straight to the bottom line, where it accounts for 19%, or nearly a fifth, of Apples total operating profit. After the Justice Department won its antitrust case against Alphabets Google, it asked the judge to throw out the search giants Apple contract, which the judge is still considering. During trial testimony, the judge asked Apple executive Eddy Cue, who oversees the services business, if Apple has thought about what it would do if he cancels the contract. Cue testified: Ive lost a lot of sleep thinking about it." Advertising, particularly by apps in the App Store, is another big chunk of services revenue. Subscriptions to iCloud storage, Apple Music, Apple TV and other services add even more to Apples services business. News Corp, owner of The Wall Street Journal, has a commercial agreement to supply news through Apple services. While Apple has bested expectations in many arenas of its services business outside of the App Store and Google payments, the company will still face an uphill battle in replacing lost revenue from those two areas, analysts say. Progcap, a fintech company focused on small businesses, is setting up a new vertical that will digitise their supply chains and offer them on-the-spot credit. It is building a full-stack software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform for brands, distributors and retailers, expanding from pure-play lending into embedded finance as a second revenue source, co-founders Pallavi Shrivastava and Himanshu Chandra told Mint. Large corporates have access to platforms like Salesforce but the actual sales process on the ground was still very analog. If you can place the order on the spot and initiate the payment process immediately, it leads to better conversion. Smaller brands and distributors lacked access to such tech," said Chandra. Progcaps new vertical will digitise this supply chain end-to-end and is already live with over 40 companies. Progcap plans to scale up embedded credit on this platform. Embedded credit means getting a loan right where youre buying or selling something, without going to a bank. We want to be the operating system for these brand-distributor-retailer ecosystems," said Shrivastava. Also Read | Govt looks to scrap minor penalties for MSMEs in ease of doing business push This comes as Indian businesses such as Zeptos Atom, Big Baskets BB Matrix and InsuranceDekhos Heph launch their SaaS verticals to diversify revenue streams. Currently, Progcap's SaaS vertical offers credit only through Progfin, its non-banking finance company. The company aims to onboard over 200 brands and will open the SaaS platform to other banks and financial institutions by year-end, the founders said. Revenue contribution from the SaaS and embedded credit vertical is expected to be 10-15% over the next two to three years as lending will continue to be the main business. It is significantly reducing our customer acquisition cost. If the transaction is initiated on our platform, theres a high likelihood that well also be chosen to finance it," said Chandra. He added that it is helping reduce feet-on-the-street sales teams. Sales teams of our partner brands essentially became our onboarding channels, and we didnt need to send field teams," said Chandra. Automating processes This comes as companies actively think of further automating their processes and reducing costs to become leaner and turn profitable. Progcap's revenue from operations almost doubled to 139 crore in FY24 from 71 crore in FY23, while it managed to narrow its loss to 46 crore from 49 crore. The company is yet to file its FY25 financials. Founded in 2017 by Srivastava and Chandra, the financial service company, last valued at over $600 million, gets 95% of its revenue from lending to micro and small businesses. Within the SaaS platform, direct monetisation will come from subscription-based fees charged to brands and distributors. In addition, the new vertical opens up international expansion possibilities for Progcap. Also Read | AI-first startups outpace SaaS firms in funding race Lending is heavily regulated and requires deep market understanding. SaaS, however, is globally scalable," said Chandra. Some large brands are already asking us if we can deploy this in Bangladesh or Indonesia. So, once we prove the product in India, we will consider expanding it internationally." Though still at an early revenue stage, the SaaS platform is expected to be spun off as a separate entity company in two to three years as Progcomm, said Shrivastava. Co-founder Chandra leads this vertical fulltime, she added. Funding in the works Progcap is also preparing to raise a fresh round of equity capital to fund growth. The new round will include a secondary component to provide partial exits to early investors, the founders said. We havent hit the market yet," said Shrivastava. But were looking at capital to expand geographically, grow the team, scale the lending book, and double down on SaaS plus embedded credit. A portion may go into secured lending pilots as well." The company has been diversifying revenue outside of unsecured lending, an area thats come under greater scrutiny of the banking regulator. Also Read | Banks, NBFCs continue to battle rising stress in unsecured loans in Q1 So far, Progcap has raised about $110 million across four funding rounds from marquee investors such as Tiger Global, Peak XV Partners and Google. The valuation will depend on timing and market conditions. Were not chasing vanity milestones," Shrivastava said. Progcap aims to grow its assets under management to 3,000 crore by the end of FY26, riding on strong demand for formalised credit in Indias underserved micro, small and medium enterprise sector. New Delhi: Beijing-based Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), in which India is the second largest shareholder after China, is holding discussions with the Central and state governments as well as Indian industry to finance a robust pipeline of sovereign and private sector projects, AIIB vice president Ajay Bhushan Pandey said on Tuesday. The development bank is working towards stepping up annual project financing from about $10 billion last fiscal to $17 billion over the next few years. Also Read | Ajay Bhushan Pandey joins AIIB as Vice President Pandey, who is on a visit to India, said AIIB finances projects not only in traditional infrastructure, but also in digital public infrastructure, data centres, digital communication, affordable housing, health and education. AIIB already has deployed $12 billion in India, of which $1.8 billion is in the private sector. It has a loan book of about $60 billion and is aiming to step this up. We will closely engage with government of India, the state governments and the private sector in India, Pandey, who had previously served as Indias finance secretary and as the chairperson of audit regulator National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA), told reporters on the sidelines of an interaction with industry leaders organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). We will work with all line-ministries to create a very sound pipeline of sovereign projects. Similarly, we will work with private sector players to create the pipeline of the projects where we can finance through all the options that are available". Also Read | India, China discuss situation in border areas Pandey explained that AIIBs message to the Central ministries and state governments is this, This is your bank and you must make optimum use of the resources available. Yesterday we had a detailed meeting with the secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, and secretary, Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation on the water sector, including revival of many dams, the Namami Gange project and the inter-linking of rivers. We are going to have discussions with the ministries of health and power and then with the Honourable chief minister Maharashtra and state officials to discuss building a pipeline of infrastructure projects both in public andprivatesector, said Pandey. Besides China and India, the other leading shareholders in the banks set up a decade ago are Russia, Germany and South Korea. The multilateral bank with 110 member-nations is making a strong foray into development financing as emerging economies need to invest heavily for development, especially to transition to less-carbon intensive economies. According to a Deloitte India report released earlier this month, titled The climate response: Tapping into Indias climate and energy transition opportunity,India would require a $1.5-trillion investment by 2030 across key areas to address the climate challenge at scale. The investments will be driven by Indias efforts towards renewable energy, biofuels, decarbonization and sustainable infrastructure to combat climate change, the report said. New Delhi: The governments aim of reducing agricultural imports and making the country self-sufficient in oilseeds seems to be facing setbacks this kharif season due to unremunerative prices for farmers and growing demand for ethanol. The area on which import-dependent crops such as oilseeds is sown has declined, according to data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare on 25 July. The area under oilseeds dropped by 383,000 hectares from last year. The fall in oilseeds sowing is mainly due to a sharp decline in the cultivation of soybean Indias main kharif oilseed crop although there were small increases in areas under groundnut and sesamum. The total area of oilseeds cultivation dipped 2% to 16.7 million hectares, primarily due to fall in soybean area by 3.8% to 11.7 million hectares. Soybean constitutes 65% of the total area under oilseeds. Also Read | Industry differs with govt on soybean output, says edible oil price to stay high Farmers said market prices are lower than the minimum support price (MSP) that the government offers to purchase soybean. However, unlike for paddy or wheat, there's no large-scale procurement infrastructure for soybean. In some states, state-run agencies may buy soybean under a price support scheme, but these are limited in scope and budget. These factors force soybean farmers to switch to crops like maize, which offers better marketability. For an acre, the input cost varies from 18,000 to 20,000, and the production ranges between 5-6 quintals per acre, while the market price of one quintal of soybean was between 4,000 and 4,100 which was much below the MSP (minimum support price) of 4,892 for crop year 2024-25," said Ganesh Nanote, a soybean farmer from Vidarbha in Maharashtra. Although the government increased the MSP of soybean to 5,328/quintal on 28 May, it still failed to attract farmers to cultivate the key oilseed. Ethanol blending Since maize is in demand and has higher saleability than soybean, farmers are diversifying towards maize production due to its demand in the ethanol blending programme," said Nanote. India blends as much as 20% of ethanola byproduct of some cropsin petrol to reduce carbon emissions from use of the automobile fuel. The decline in oilseed output comes even after repeated government efforts to boost domestic production and reduce import dependence, especially after recent global supply disruptions caused edible oil prices to rise. India imports over 60% of its edible oil needs and has targeted expanded cultivation under the National Mission on Edible Oils Oil Palm. Apart from the farmers, the edible oil processing industry also faces pressure as shrinking margins due to lower oilmeal prices and uneven supply of oilseeds make it harder to operate at scale. Industry executives argued that unless oilseed cultivation is made economically viable for farmers through targeted support and stable pricing, supply-side constraints will continue to hurt both producers and processors. In Punjab, farmers initially picked up sunflower cultivation, but the prices were not remunerative, so they stopped," said A.R. Sharma, chairman of the Sangrur (Punjab)-based Ricela Group of Companies, which processes rice bran oil. Secondly, maize is widely used as a feedstock for ethanol in recent years. This has led to increased availability of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), a by-product of ethanol production, primarily from maize, which is widely used in the cattle and poultry industry." The increased availability of DDGS has affected demand for traditional oilmeals and has led to a significant drop in their prices and as a result, processors are finding it difficult to offer farmers a remunerative price, Sharma added. Blow for farmers Last year (2024-25), the prices were not good, so we switched to maize this year as it offers better returns. The decline in earnings from soybean, coupled with rising input costs, has affected farmers badly, leading many of them to diversify," said Mahesh Kumar, a farmer from Morena in Madhya Pradesh. According to him, non-remunerative prices have come as a significant blow, especially for small and marginal farmers. Production of oilseeds stood at 41.35 million tonnes in FY23, which decreased to 39.9 million tonnes in FY24 before rising to 42.6 million tonnes in FY25. Soybean production was 14.98 million tonnes in FY23, 13.06 million tonnes in FY24, and 15.18 million tonnes in FY25. Queries sent to the ministry of agriculture remained unanswered. Cotton, a key crop for both the governments self-reliance plan and the textile industry, was sown on 10.3 million hectares as on 25 July compared with 10.5 million hectares last year. Also Read | Making Indian cotton viable again: New mission targets an industrial revamp In the case of cotton sowing, Nanote who diversified from cotton to soybean initially and is now shifting to maize said labour shortages, poor price realisation, and outdated seed technology have pushed him to opt for other crops. The MSP of cotton for the 2025-26 crop year was increased to 7,710 per quintal from 7,121 per quintal for medium-staple cotton, and to 8,110 per quintal from 7,521 per quintal for long-staple cotton. Indias cotton production stood at 33.66 million bales in FY23, declined to 32.52 million bales in FY24, and further dropped to 30.69 million bales in FY25. (1 bale = 170 kg). New Delhi: The Union government is likely to put the proposed National Retail Trade Policy on the back burner, a move seen as a conciliatory gesture towards Washington as negotiations for the India-US bilateral trade agreement enter the final stretch. The retail policy, which was first proposed in 2019, was meant to address structural challenges faced by brick-and-mortar traders and small businesses due to rising digitisation and platform-driven commerce. Shelving the policy may indirectly benefit major US-based retail giantsparticularly e-commerce platforms and global retail chains like Walmart Inc.by allowing them to continue operating in India without additional regulatory oversight. Domestic retail chains such as DMart, owned by Avenue Supermart Ltd, Reliance Retail Ltd, and Tata Retail Ltd would also benefit from the policy shift. With Indias e-commerce policy, originally due in 2023,pushed to the sidelines, government officials said a separate retail policy is no longer necessary. Much of what the National Retail Trade Policy set out to achieve is already being implemented through decentralised platforms such as the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and cooperative-led initiatives like the app-based taxi service Sahkar, said a person familiar with the governments thinking. A policy is a set of actionsand those actions are being taken," this person said, citing ONDCs success in leveling the playing field across sectors. Creating compliances when the purpose has already been largely achieved doesnt make sense," said a second person. Both of them declined to be identified as the government hasnt made a final decision yet. Also Read | India draws the line on GM foods, dairy for next round of US trade talks A US team of negotiators is scheduled to visit New Delhi in the second week of August to resolve the deadlock over contentious issues in the talks for the India-US bilateral trade agreement. India has made several gestures, starting with the Union Budget, to improve the trade climate, but feedback from the US suggests that its focus remains largely on pushing for exports and greater market access for GM maize and soy-based products. The USs dairy industry also has been lobbying for access to Indias vast consumer market. Spokespersons of the ministries of commerce and consumer affairs, the Retailers Association of India, Amazon India, Walmart-owned Flipkart, Tata Group-owned BigBasket, DMart, and Reliance Retail did not immediately reply to emailed queries. Key Takeaways India is likely to delay the National Retail Trade Policy as a goodwill gesture to the US amid final negotiations for a bilateral trade deal. Government officials claim much of the policys intent is being fulfilled through platforms like ONDC, reducing the need for a standalone framework. Industry experts worry the delay may hinder formal job creation and stall support for MSMEs, missing a key opportunity to boost the retail sector. A missed opportunity Indias rapidly expanding organized retail sector is expected to reach $230 billion by 2030, Deloitte and the Retailers Association of India said in a joint report in February. The report added that private consumption in India had grown from $1 trillion in 2013 to $2.1 trillion in 2024 at a compound annual growth rate of 7.2%, surpassing the growth rates of the US, China, and Germany. A draft National Retail Trade Policy had been prepared to streamline and support the development of all formats of the retail trade sector in a harmonious manner, the ministry of commerce and industry informed the Lok Sabha on 22 December 2021. According to the ministry, the policy aimed to improve the ease of doing business, ensure easy and quick access to affordable credit, facilitate modernisation and digitisation of retail trade, and develop physical infrastructure across the retail distribution chain. The retail trade policy also sought to promote skill development to improve labour productivity, create large-scale employment opportunities, and establish a grievance redressal mechanism for the welfare of traders and their employees, the ministry had said. Also Read | India eases quality control norms on key chemicals imported from the US, China The policy has been in the works for a long time, and we have been waiting for it. The challenges in the sectorparticularly those affecting MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises))must be addressed comprehensively through this policy," said Vinod Kumar, president of the India SME Forum. The second unnamed person quoted earlier pointed to ONDC, an initiative of the commerce ministrys Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, as an alternative. The digital platform offers a bouquet of services, including ride-booking, food-delivery, and e-commerce. Sellers are getting onboarded without any hassle, making the process seamless," said this person. According to data available on the ONDC website, about 64 million orders were placed in 2024-25 across 860 districts, and 166,691 vendors had been onboarded. Data for previous years was not available. Kuljeet Singh, chief financial officer at GI Group Holding, a staffing solution provider in the retail sector, said delaying the National Retail Trade Policy may slow the momentum of employment growth in the retail sector. The policy was expected to support small traders, shopkeepers, improve access to credits, and encourage formal job expansion. Without it, growth in some areas like logistics, warehousing, etc., may take a bit longer," Singh said. However, in our view, retail will continue to provide jobs as it does today. This delay may be a missed opportunity but with the right steps taken later, the sector can still grow stronger." The results for the Rajasthan Joint Entrance Test (Rajasthan JET) 2025, held by Swami Keshvanand Rajasthan Agricultural University (SKRAU), Bikaner, is likely to be released today. Candidates can access the Rajasthan JET/Pre-PG/Ph.D. Entrance Examinations-2025 result at jetskrau2025.com once out. A message on the official website stated, The probable date of result declaration of JET/Pre PG/Ph.D is 29.07.2025." The university also declared the Rajasthan JET answer key. It called for objections from candidates till July 7, 2025 in case of any errors. Rajasthan JET Result 2025: How to download? Go to the official website at jetskrau2025.com. 2. On the homepage, check the "JET Pre-PG/PhD Result 2025" link 3. Mention your registration number and password. 4. Your scorecard will display on the screen. 5. Download and take a printout for later purposes. According to the official notice, the scorecard, merit list, and OMR sheet will be available for download starting today. The Rajasthan JET 2025 OMR sheet contains the responses marked by the candidate during the entrance examination. Following the announcement of the results, the university will release the counselling and admission schedule on its official website. Ensure you have your JET admit card, valid ID proof, and academic certificates ready for verification during the counselling process. Also Read | OJEE 2025 special exam result OUT at @ojee.nic.in: Check steps to download Rajasthan JET Result 2025: Schedule The Rajasthan JET 2025 examination was held on 20 June 2025 at different centres across the state in a single shift from 11:00 am to 1:10 pm. Candidates are encouraged to properly review the information stated like name, roll number, course name, and marks received after downloading the result. Fans of mystery and comedy, rejoice! The beloved Emmy-winning series Only Murders in the Building is back with its much-anticipated fifth season, premiering exclusively on JioHotstar on September 9, 2025. To kick things off, the first three episodes will drop on premiere day, with new episodes releasing weekly thereafter. Only Murders in the Building S5 To Feature Another New Mystery Starring the iconic trio Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez, the latest season finds the amateur sleuths once again pulled into the orbit of crime and chaos. When Lester, the cherished doorman of the Arconia, dies under murky circumstances, Charles, Oliver, and Mabel suspect foul play and they wont rest until the truth comes to light. Their investigation pulls them deep into the darkest corners of New York and beyond, exposing a tangled web of secrets that involves old-school mobsters, ruthless billionaires, and enigmatic neighbours. As they follow the trail, the trio confronts the changing face of the city one where legacy criminals battle to retain power while newer, more sinister figures step into the void. Meet The New Additions To The Show The star-studded cast includes returning favourite Michael Cyril Creighton, with an impressive line-up of guest stars such as Meryl Streep, Nathan Lane, Renee Zellweger, Logan Lerman, Christoph Waltz, Tea Leoni, Keegan-Michael Key, and many more. Co-created by Steve Martin and John Hoffman ('Grace & Frankie', Looking), the series is produced by 20th Television, part of Disney Television Studios, with executive producers including Martin, Hoffman, Short, Gomez, Dan Fogelman ('This Is Us'), and others. With its unique blend of wit, suspense, and star power, Only Murders in the Building season five promises to deliver another twist-filled ride through the heart of mystery. From comedy and food shows to crime stories and dramas, theres a lot to watch this week. With new films and series coming to Netflix, JioHotstar, Prime Video and Apple TV+, heres a quick look at whats streaming in the coming days. Housefull 5 (Streaming from August 1) - Prime Video Eccentric billionaire Ranjeet Dobriyal (played by Ranjeet) dies suddenly aboard a luxury cruise during his 100th birthday celebration. He leaves behind a staggering 69 billion fortune and one cryptic clause: it all goes to Jolly. The twist? Three different men aboard the ship claim to be Jollyeach bearing the same scar and a seemingly perfect backstory. What follows is a rollercoaster of confusion, deception and comedy, promising a chaotic inheritance battle at sea. My Oxford Year (Streaming from August 1) - Netflix Anna De La Vega (Sofia Carson), a determined American postgraduate student, arrives at Oxford University with clear goals and a rigid schedule. But her carefully structured life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Jamie Davenport (Corey Mylchreest), a charming British poet who introduces her to the world of literature and spontaneity. As their bond deepens, Anna is forced to question her ideas of control, success and what it truly means to live in the moment. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 (Streaming from July 29) - JioHotstar Balaji Telefilms iconic serial returns with a second season, launching on its 25th anniversary. The show marks the return of Smriti Irani and Amar Upadhyay in their beloved roles, while also introducing a host of new characters. Fans can expect a blend of nostalgia and fresh drama as the timeless family saga continues in a new era, reflecting changing times and relationships. Thammudu (Streaming from August 1) - Netflix This Telugu-language action thriller tells the emotional story of a brother and sister, blending heartfelt family dynamics with intense action sequences. As their bond is tested through a series of life-altering events, Thammudu delivers both sentiment and suspense in a story driven by love, sacrifice and resilience. Trainwreck: Storm Area 51 (Streaming from July 29) - Netflix The final chapter in Netflixs Trainwreck documentary anthology revisits the bizarre 2019 Facebook event Storm Area 51, They Cant Stop All of Us. What began as a humorous online post by Matty Roberts quickly spiralled into an internet sensation, triggering military responses and culminating in a quirky desert gathering known as Alienstock. This episode features interviews with Roberts, alien cosplayers, meme creators, military officials, and local residents who witnessed the surreal event unfold. WWE: Unreal (Streaming from July 29) - Netflix Narrated by WWE Chief Content Officer Paul Triple H Levesque, this five-part docuseries offers a rare glimpse into the world of professional wrestling from behind the curtain. Viewers are taken inside the closely guarded writers room that shapes the companys biggest storylines, including the build-up to WrestleMania 41. Featuring appearances by superstars like Cody Rhodes, John Cena, Rhea Ripley, CM Punk, and Bianca Belair, the series unpacks the creative decisions, character arcs and strategic planning that drive WWEs spectacle long before the action hits the ring. Conversations with a Killer: The Son of Sam Tapes (Streaming from 30 July) - Netflix This three-part true-crime docuseries delves into the twisted mind of David Berkowitz, also known as the Son of Sam killer. Using previously unheard audio interviews recorded in 1980 at Attica Correctional Facility, the series offers a chilling window into Berkowitzs psyche. Alongside the tapes, interviews with detectives, journalists and survivors provide new insight into the fear that gripped New York City during his infamous crime spree in the late 1970s. Directed by renowned true-crime filmmaker Joe Berlinger, the series promises a harrowing and in-depth exploration. Glass Heart (Streaming from July 31) - Netflix Based on Mio Wakagis bestselling novel, Glass Heart is a Japanese musical drama about second chances, resilience, and creative rebirth. The series follows Akane Saijo (Yu Miyazaki), a university student and drummer who is abruptly removed from her band. Her journey takes a new turn when gifted musician Naoki Fujitani (Takeru Satoh) recognises her raw potential and invites her to join his new group, TENBLANK. With fellow musicians Sho Takaoka and Kazushi Sakamoto, they embark on a shared quest for musical success, grappling with personal setbacks, rivalry and self-discovery. Chief of War (Streaming from August 1) - Apple TV+ Set in late-18th-century Hawaii, Chief of War tells the story of Kaiana (Jason Momoa), a noble warrior returning home from travels abroad. He finds his homeland divided by internal strife and under the looming threat of Western colonisation. After months of dating speculation, Hollywood stars Tom Cruise and Ana de Armas have seemingly confirmed their romance. The pair were photographed holding hands while strolling through the streets of Woodstock, Vermont, in images published by TMZ. Their appearance comes just days after they were spotted at Oasis sold-out reunion concert in London on July 25. More About Tom Cruise-Ana de Armas: The Newest Couple in Town According to TMZ, the Mission: Impossible actor and the Ballerina star enjoyed a quiet and cosy visit in Vermont. The two were seen driving through a national park, shopping, and even stopping for ice creamalways hand in hand. The subtle public display of affection marked their first clear confirmation of a relationship that had been rumoured since earlier this year. Their outings have not gone unnoticed in recent months. The duo was first seen together on Valentines Day in Madrid. Since then, theyve made several appearances in London, including one occasion where Cruise reportedly flew Ana in by helicopter. They also enjoyed a sun-soaked trip to Menorca, fuelling more speculation about their bond. While neither actor has publicly commented on their relationship, Ana did open up about their professional partnership during an interview on Good Morning America in May. Its so much fun, and we're definitely working on a lot of things, she said. Not just one but a few projects with Doug Liman and Christopher McQuarrie and, of course, Tom. And I'm so excited. On the same day, Tom praised Anas performance in Ballerina, telling TikToker Javier Ibarreche at the London premiere of Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning, I just saw the movie. It just kicks ass! For a growing number of bosses, the answer is not muchAI can do the work instead. At Chicago recruiting firm Hirewell, marketing agency clients have all but stopped requesting entry-level staffyoung grads once in high demand but whose work is now a home run" for AI, the firms chief growth officer said. Dating app Grindr is hiring more seasoned engineers, forgoing some junior coders straight out of school, and CEO George Arison said companies are going to need less and less people at the bottom." Bill Balderaz, CEO of Columbus-based consulting firm Futurety, said he decided not to hire a summer intern this year, opting to run social-media copy through ChatGPT instead. Balderaz has urged his own kids to focus on jobs that require people skills and cant easily be automated. One is becoming a police officer. Having a good job guaranteed" after college, he said, I dont think thats an absolute truth today any more." Theres long been an unwritten covenant between companies and new graduates: Entry-level employees, young and hungry, are willing to work hard for lower pay. Employers, in turn, provide training and experience to give young professionals a foothold in the job market, seeding the workforce of tomorrow. A yearslong white-collar hiring slump and recession worries have weakened that contract. Artificial intelligence now threatens to break it completely. That is ominous for college graduates looking for starter jobs, but also potentially a fundamental realignment in how the workforce is structured. As companies hire and train fewer young people, they may also be shrinking the pool of workers that will be ready to take on more responsibility in five or 10 years. Companies say they are already rethinking how to develop the next generation of talent. AI is accelerating trends that were already under way. With each new class after 2020, an ever-smaller share of graduates is landing jobs that require a bachelors degree, according to a Burning Glass Institute analysis of labor data. Thats happening across majors, from visual arts to engineering and mathematics. And unemployment among recent college graduates is now rising faster than for young adults with just high-school or associate degrees. Meanwhile, the sectors where graduate hiring has slowed the mostlike information, finance, insurance and technical servicesare still growing, a sign employers are becoming more efficient and see no immediate downside to hiring fewer inexperienced workers, said Matt Sigelman, Burning Glasss president. This is a more tectonic shift in the way employers are hiring," Sigelman said. Employers are significantly more likely to be letting go of their workers at the entry leveland in many cases are stepping up their hiring of more experienced professionals." After dancing around the issue in the 2 years since ChatGPTs release upended the way almost all companies plan for their futures, CEOs are now talking openly about AIs immense capabilities likely leading to deep job cuts. Top executives at industry giants including Amazon and JPMorgan have said in recent weeks that they expect their workforces to shrink considerably. Ford CEO Jim Farley said he expects AI will replace half of the white-collar workforce in the U.S. For new graduates, this means not only are they competing for fewer slots but they are also increasingly up against junior workers who have been recently laid off. While many bosses say they remain committed to entry-level workers and understand their value, the data is increasingly stark: The overall national unemployment rate is at about 4%, but for new college graduates, it was 6.6% over the past 12 months ending in May. At large tech companies, which power much of the U.S. economy, the trend is perhaps more extreme. Venture-capital firm SignalFire found that among the 15 largest tech companies by market capitalization, the share of entry-level hires relative to total new hires has fallen by 50% since 2019. Recent graduates accounted for just 7% of new hires in 2024, down from 11% in 2022. A May report by the firm pointed to shrinking teams, fewer programs for new graduates and the growing influence of AI. Jadin Tate studied informatics at the University at Albany, hoping to land a job focused on improving the user experience of apps or websites. The week before graduation, his mentor leveled with him: That field is being taken over by AI. He warned it may not exist in five years. Tate has attended four conventions this year, networking with companies and asking if they are hiring. He has also applied to dozens of jobs, without success. Several of his college friends are working retail and food-service jobs as they apply for white-collar roles or before their start dates. It has been intimidating," Tate said of his job search. Indeed, recent graduates and students are fighting over a smaller number of positions geared at entry-level workers. There were 15% fewer job postings to the entry-level job-search platform Handshake this school year than last, while the number of applications per job rose 30%, according to the platform. Internship postings and applications saw similar trend lines between 2023 and 2025. Less gruntwork, more mentoring The shift to AI presents huge risks to companies on skill development, even as they enjoy increased efficiency and productivity from fewer workers, said Chris Ernst, chief learning officer at the HR and finance software company Workday. Ernst said his research shows that workers mostly learn through experience, and then the remainder comes from relationships and development. When AI can produce in seconds a report that previously would have taken a young employee days or weeksteaching that person critical skills along the waycompanies will have to learn to train that person differently. Genuine learning, growth, adaptationit comes from doing the hard work," he said. Its those moments of challenge, of hardshipthats the crucible where people grow, they change, they learn most profoundly." Among other things, Ernst said employers must be intentional about connecting young workers with colleagues and making time to mentor them. At the pipeline operator Williams, based in Tulsa, Okla., the company realized that thanks to AI young professionals were performing less of the drudgework like digging into corporate data that historically has taught them the core of the business. New employees at pipeline operator Williams go through a two-day orientation at the corporate headquarters in Tulsa, Okla. The company this year started a two-day onboarding program where veteran executives teach new hires the business fundamentals. Chief Human Resources Officer Debbie Pickle said that increased training will help new hires develop without loading them down with gruntwork. These are really bright, top talent people," she said. We shouldnt put a cap on how we think they can add value for the company." Still, Pickle said, the increased efficiency will allow the company to expand the business while keeping head count flat in the future. Some of the entry-level jobs most at risk are the most lucrative for recent graduates, including on Wall Street and in big law firms where six-figure starting salaries are the norm. But those jobs have also been famously menial for the first few yearsuntil AI came along. The investment firm Carlyle now pitches to prospective hires that they wont be doing grunt work. Junior hires go through AI training and a program called AI University" in which employees share best practices and participate in pilot programs, said Lucia Soares, the firms chief information officer. In the past, she said, junior hires evaluating a deal would find articles on Google, request documents from companies, review that information manually, highlight details and copy and paste information from one document to another. Now, AI tools can do almost all of that. An employee poses for a headshot at the new-employee orientation at Williams. That analyst still has to go in and make sure the analysis is accurate, question it, challenge it," she said. The nature of the brain work that needs to go into it is very much the same. Its just the speed at which these analysts can move." She said Carlyle has maintained the same volume of entry-level hiring but said 90% of its staff has adopted generative AI tools that automate some work. Messy transition Carlyles reliance on young staff to check AIs output highlights what many users know to be true: it still struggles in some cases to do the work of humans effectively. Still, many executives expect that gap to close quickly. At the New York venture-capital firm Primary Venture Partners, Rebecca Price said shes encouraging CEOs of the firms 100 portfolio companies to think hard about every hire and whether the role could be automated. She said its not that there are no entry-level jobs, but that theres a gap between the skills companies expect out of their junior hires in the age of AI and what most new graduates are equipped with out of school. An engineer in a first job used to need basic coding abilities: now that same engineer needs to be able to detect vulnerabilities and have the judgment to determine what can be trusted from the AI models. New grads must also learn faster and think critically, she saidskills that many of the newest computer-science grads dont have yet. Were in this messy transition," said Price, a partner at the firm. The bar is higher and the system hasnt caught up." Students are seeing the transition in real time. Arjun Dabir, a 20-year-old applied math major at the University of California, Irvine, said when he applied for internships last year, companies asked for knowledge of coding languages. Now, they want candidates who are familiar with how AI agents" can automate certain tasks on behalf of humansor agentic workflows" in the new vernacular. What is an intern going to do?" Dabir said as drones buzzed overhead nearby at an artificial intelligence convention in June in Washington, DC. The work typically done by interns, that task is no longer necessary. You dont need to hire someone to do it." Venture capitalist Allison Baum Gates said young professionals will need to be more entrepreneurial and gain experience on their own without the standard track of starting as an analyst or a paralegal and working their way up. Her firm, SemperVirens, invests in healthcare startups, workforce technology companies and fintech firms, some of which are replacing entry-level jobs. Maybe Im wrong and this leads to a wealth of new jobs and opportunities and that would be a great situation," she said. But it would be far worse to assume that theres no adverse impact and then be caught without a solution." Rosalia Burr, 25, is trying to avoid such an outcome. She graduated in 2022 and quickly joined Liberty Mutual Insurance, where she had interned twice during college at Arizona State University. She was laid off from her payroll job in December. Running has soothed her anxiety. This spring, however, she tore her hip flexor and had to rest to heal. Job rejections, as she was stuck inside, hit extra hard. I felt that I was failing." Her goal now is to find a client-facing job. If youre in a business back-end role, youre more of a liability of getting laid off, or your job being automated," she said. If youre client facing, thats something people cant really replicate" with AI. Write to Lindsay Ellis at lindsay.ellis@wsj.com and Katherine Bindley at katie.bindley@wsj.com Soon after he sat down to negotiate Sunday with European officials on a potential tariff agreement at his Scotland golf club, President Trump said he wanted assurances that Europe would follow through on its pledges to increase investment in the U.S. Trump questioned how the U.S. could be sure European companies wouldnt shrug off their plans, which came with a 15% levy on EU imports into the U.S. rather than the 30% Trump had threatened, according to people familiar with the matter. After EU leaders assured him that the investment plans they were talking about were real, Trump responded: prove it," according to one of the people. EU officials rattled off the names of European companies they said were already prepared to invest. With a trade deal in place, planned investments of almost $200 billion would grow by even more, they told Trump. At the end of the talks, Trump said the EU would now be investing $600 billion in the U.S. as part of the deal, which also included a plan to buy $750 billion of American energy products from the U.S. over three years. European officials said the $600 billion figure is based on private companies investment plans. The agreement, widely seen as a victory for Trump, marked the culmination of monthslong talks between America and its largest trading partner and offered the biggest signal yet that nations see Americas tariff regime as more permanent than temporary. The pact followed a shift in thinking by the Europeans: EU officials in recent talks sought to contain the damage the duties will inflict on the blocs companies and economy, rather than try to negotiate the tariffs away outright. Tariffs of 15% are certainly a challenge for some," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. But we should not forget it keeps [the EUs] access to the American market." Just before Trump and von der Leyen met Sunday to iron out the agreement, Trump aides called European officials to solidify that part of the talks would focus on the EU giving U.S. companies better access to the blocs markets, according to a person familiar with the matter. The EUs decision to accept Trumps 15% level for tariffs marked a contrast to its initial, more adversarial approach. After Trump imposed in March 25% levies for steel and aluminum, the bloc started preparing retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports, including American products such as peanut butter and Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Some of the products were chosen to try to maximize political pain for Trump, an EU official said when the blocs list was announced that month. After the U.K. in May got a deal that pegged tariffs to 10%, Trumps global baseline for duties, some European officials were dismissive. If the U.K.-U.S. deal is what Europe gets, then the U.S. can expect countermeasures from our side," Benjamin Dousa, Swedens minister for international development cooperation and foreign trade, said at the time. But European officials eventually came to view 10% as a minimum level. They noticed Trump administration officials talking about the revenue the tariffs were pulling in. It was more and more clear that President Trump is dead serious about significantly transforming the landscape of global trade," EU trade commissioner Maros Sefcovic told The Wall Street Journal on Monday, adding, the status quo of going back to last year, or before April 2, simply is not possible." As the EU tried to adapt, it relied heavily on Sefcovic to lead political discussions with U.S. officials. Since February, he has traveled to Washington seven times to meet with U.S. trade officials and had more than 100 hours of contact with them over recent months, including frequent phone and video calls. On one occasion about a week before Trump and von der Leyens meeting in Scotland, Sefcovic said he spent half of a roughly 700-mile road trip to his home country of Slovakia talking with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, with his two golden retrievers panting in the back seat. At one point, I said Howard, its not me," Sefcovic said of the dogs heavy breathing. When he needed to find documents to help with the discussion, Sefcovic looked for parking lots with a Wi-Fi signal, during what turned out to be a crucial late-stage discussion ahead of the leaders sit-down in Scotland. A major inflection point in the talks came in May, when Trump threatened on social media to apply a 50% tariff on the bloc. Our discussions with them are going nowhere," Trump said at the time. After a phone call with von der Leyen two days later, he said he would hold off on that threat. The bloc shifted its approach. It presented U.S. trade officials with a proposal that included plans to increase purchases of American energy products and an offer to lower tariffs for certain U.S. imports, people familiar with the matter said. Greer said in early June that the EU had provided a credible starting point" for talks between the two economies. Then on July 12 Trump published a letter on social media saying he would put 30% tariffs on the bloc in early August. The development was unexpected for European officials who had hoped they were close to a deal. Days after the letter was posted, Sefcovic told Fox News, in comments that foreshadowed the eventual deal, that the EU was prepared to significantly increase purchases of U.S. energy products including oil, liquefied natural gas and nuclear fuel, and to spend about $40 billion on artificial intelligence chips. He also said the EU was looking at about $500 billion in EU companies investments in the U.S. over a three-year period. Ahead of the Scotland meeting, Sefcovic sought advice from Japans chief negotiator to get a better sense of what to expect, people familiar with the matter said. He learned that Japans final-stage talks with Trump went beyond surface level discussions and delved into the details of the agreement. The Europeans hunkered down in a hotel in Glasgow on Sunday to discuss what kind of messaging would be most effective during the meeting with Trump, a person familiar with their preparations said. They showed up ready to talk specifics: including examples of companies planned U.S. investments. Write to Kim Mackrael at kim.mackrael@wsj.com and Brian Schwartz at brian.schwartz@wsj.com The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Tuesday capped investments by banks and non-bank financiers in alternative investment funds (AIFs) at 10% of the fund's corpus, two months after it proposed relaxations to its 2023 circular. The central bank said no regulated entity should individually contribute more than 10% of the corpus of an AIF scheme and that the collective contribution of all such entities in any AIF should not cross 20% of the fund's corpus. The collective contribution limit is higher than the 15% figure proposed in Mays draft circular. The RBI said these norms will apply to commercial banks, cooperative banks, all Indian financial institutions, NBFCs and housing finance companies from 1 January 2026 or earlier. Proportional provisions According to Tuesdays circular, if a bank or a non-banking financial company (NBFC) contributes more than 5% of a scheme that also has downstream investments excluding equity in a borrower of the lender, the lender will have to make provisions for it. These provisions, said RBI, will be proportional to the lenders investment in the borrower through the AIF. Borrower or debtor in this case means a company to which the lender the lender has had loan or investment exposure during the preceding 12 months. As an example, consider a bank that has invested 100 crore in a 1,000 crore AIF, which in turn has invested 100 crore in a company that has borrowed from the same bank. In the December 2023 circular, the RBI had asked banks to provide for the entire 100 crore investment. On Tuesday, the RBI said lenders would have to make provisions proportionate to the investments made by the AIF in the common borrower, or 10 crore in this example. However, if a lenders contribution is in the form of subordinated units, it will have to deduct the entire investment from its capital funds proportionately from both tier-1 and tier-2 capital, RBI said. Subordinated units are those that are lower in priority for distribution of earnings and assets. Curbing misuse of AIFs The guidelines directly seek to address concerns relating to the misuse of the AIF route for evergreening of loans and advancing by using AIF to finance the existing stressed loans portfolio, said Sudhir Chandi, director at Resurgent India, a category-1 merchant bank. By restricting the individual contribution to 10% of the corpus of an AIF, concentration risk will be mitigated. According to Chandi, the goal is to deter the diversion of funds from AIFs for wrongful purposes. The final guidelines are relaxed as they allow regulated entities (REs) to invest upto 20% of the corpus of AIF as against 15% allowed in draft guidelines, said Anil Gupta, senior vice-president at rating agency ICRA. Further, in case of any common exposure between AIF and RE, the provisioning required on such investments is proportionate to the share of RE's investment in AIF corpus and not 100% as required earlier. On 19 December 2023, RBI asked lenders not to invest in AIFs that had direct or indirect downstream investments in companies that were borrowers in the previous 12 months. Such existing investments were required to be liquidated or fully provided for in 30 days. This prompted several large private banks to make significant provisions against these investments in their financials for the last two quarters of FY24. Indias leading business schools are seeing a sharp rise in pre-placement offers this year despite a sluggish job market. Students across Indian Institutes of Management in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Lucknow, Indore and Kozhikode who completed their summer internships in April-May are reporting strong hiring interest from recruiters. A pre-placement offer (PPO) is a job offer typically extended by a company to a student interning with it even before the formal campus placement process begins. While consulting and finance firms continue to dominate pre-placement offers, recruiters from sectors such as renewable energy, edtech, political consulting, think tanks, and nonprofits are also showing significant interest, according to placement teams at the older IIMs. Last year, we had about 80-90 PPOs by this time. But this year, we already have over a hundred PPOs, and more continue to come in as companies respond one by one," said a placement coordinator from one of the IIMs, who didnt want to be named. Not only are the offers higher in volume, but companies are paying 5-10% more than last year, said the coordinator. Though the median stipend for summer internships at all IIMs last year is not available, for IIM-Indore, it was 1.3 lakh per month and for IIM-Kozhikode it was 2.5 lakh, according to their placement reports. The summer internships process begins around September-October, when recruiters visit the IIMs to pick candidates for internships in April and May the following year. After the internships, companies offer PPOs to select students, while the remaining students proceed to sit for the final placements. Depending on the IIM, the dates of final placements vary. The older ones start their placement season in February while the newer ones start a couple of months earlier. In a sluggish job market marked by uncertainty, recruiters seem eager to close offers quickly, aware that anxious students are more likely to accept early offers. We observed that companies are increasingly seeking opportunities to recruit students post their internship," said Roopak Kumar Gupta, chairperson of IIM-Kozhikodes placement officeCorporate Access, Readiness and Engagement (Care) Office. Summer internship gives them an opportunity to test the skill of the students on live projects. We are optimistic about this in the coming season." Key Takeaways Despite a sluggish job market, IIMs are witnessing a sharp rise in pre-placement offers, with companies preferring to lock in talent early after internships. Some campuses have already seen over 100 PPOs, exceeding last years numbers. While consulting and finance continue to dominate, sectors like renewable energy, edtech, political consulting, and nonprofits are increasingly participating. Internship compensation is also up by 5-10% compared to last year. Recruiters are leveraging summer internships as a critical talent assessment tool. B-schools are enhancing student preparedness by focusing on in-demand skills such as AI, machine learning, and sustainability. Influx of recruiters IIMs, where the batch strength for their flagship MBA programme can go up to 600 students, are using various strategies to help students get internships and better pre-placement and final placement offers. While the influx of startups, think tanks, NGOs (non-government organisations) is leading to a diverse spectrum of job opportunities, consulting firms continue to hold an upper hand due to their higher compensation packages," said another placement coordinator at one of the older IIMs. We are anticipating slightly better PPO offerings compared to last year." IIM-Kozhikode banked on a mix of both older recruiters and new firms to secure internships for its students. At IIM-Indore, consulting remained the largest recruiter cluster, with nearly 35% of the latest batch securing internships in this sector. Sales and marketing also witnessed a significant surge in compensation (for internships), attracting interest from international recruiters," a spokesperson for IIM-Indore said in response to Mint's queries. The finance sector remained strong as well, with several high-paying roles offered across investment banking, corporate finance, and private equity." Also Read | How Astronomers PR celebrity cameo became a case study in crisis management IIM-Indore expects a rise in PPOs this year. This (internship) season witnessed a notable rise in participation from the renewable energy sector, with companies like TruAlt, ReNew, and Waaree marking their debut," the spokesperson said. Educational startups such as Boatload Minds and Hippocampus also joined the roster. Additionally, there has been an emerging interest from political consulting firms, with Showtime Consulting being one of the notable new entrants." At ReNew, which offered summer internships at older IIMs, the roles spanned international business development, sustainability and CSR (corporate social responsibility), ESG (environmental, social, and governance), policy affairs, finance, and human resources. We are providing roles that are both high-impact as well as high-paying, which fit their criterion well," said Vaishali Nigam Sinha, co-founder and chairperson of sustainability, ReNew. The top recruiters Top recruiters at IIM-Indore for internships included Boston Consulting Group (BCG), L.E.K. Consulting, and the Big Four firmsEY, Deloitte, PwC and KPMG. EY India hires from IIMs both for summer internships and final placements, an association we are immensely proud of and have nurtured over many years," said Arti Dua, partner at EY. Our recruitment focus is sharply aligned with EY-Parthenon (EYP) for strategy and transformation roles spanning multiple dynamic sectors, as we find IIM students bring a rare combination of strategic acumen, entrepreneurial mindset, and advanced problem-solving skillsattributes that perfectly match our high-impact, fast-paced environment," Dua said. Roles offered typically span across business transformation, market-entry strategy, operating model design, and digital-first consulting mandates." KPMGs internships focus on the consulting business, where interns work with teams to support C-suite clients on high-impact projects. We actively extend pre-placement offers to top-performing interns. The exact number is performance-based, but our aim is to maximise PPO conversion by identifying high-potential talent aligned with our long-term vision," a KPMG spokesperson said in an email reply to Mint. PPOs to our high-performing summer interns continues to be a core proposition," said Saurabh Chhajer, managing director and partner, BCG. However, the final picture is still evolving. With some top consulting firms yet to confirm their PPO decisions, placement teams remain cautious. "The consulting firms are yet to revert, so we are relying more on the growing opportunities coming in from the FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) and the BFSI (banking, financial services, and insurance) sectors," said Rajeev Verma, the placements chairperson at IIM-Ranchi. We believe if we do not hear from the traditional recruiters, the PPOs may remain stagnant at what they were last year." Verma added that artificial intelligence and machine learning operations and sustainability studies had become fundamental skills that recruiters expect candidates to have. The institutes are increasingly organizing focused industry discussions on these themes to better prepare students for the evolving job market," he said. As the final placement season approaches, B-schools are hoping this early hiring and optimism momentum holds. Ria Dalal contributed to this story Indias $30 billion IT bellwether Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is laying off 12,000 employees, signalling a deeper churn in an industry grappling with the twin forces of artificial intelligence (AI) and the rise of global capability centres (GCCs). Once a symbol of Indias global ascent and a magnet for white-collar jobs, the IT services sector is undergoing a structural reset. Mint decodes: 1) Why is TCS laying off employees? TCS, which employs 613,000 globally, is letting go of about 12,200 employees, in phases through FY26. The company has attributed this to a skill mismatch and the limited feasibility of redeploying mid- and senior-level employees amid structural changes in delivery models. The move is part of a larger effort to become future-ready," not a cost-cutting initiative, the company has said. Also Read | Three years on, AI is prompting IT companies to cut workforce The industry is shifting from traditional waterfall methods, where one phase must be completed before the next begins, to agile, product-centric approaches. This transition is reducing the need for layered project management roles. Despite extensive upskilling initiatives, TCS has struggled to redeploy staff, particularly at mid and senior levels. Industry body Nasscom expects further workforce rationalisation in the coming months as traditional skillsets are reassessed. In a statement Nasscom said, The technology industry is at an inflection point as AI and automation move to the very core of how businesses operate. Over the next several months we anticipate some transitions as organisations pivot towards product-aligned delivery models, driven by rising client expectations around agility, innovation and speed." 2) Is AI the key reason for the layoffs? AI isnt the direct trigger, but its a powerful underlying force. TCS has clarified that the layoffs are not a result of AI-driven productivity gains. However, AI is fundamentally reshaping delivery models and client expectations, indirectly driving workforce restructuring. Also Read | IT firms are seeing a change in how clients engage their services Roles that havent kept pace with AI, particularly those tied to legacy systems or manual processes, are increasingly becoming obsolete. So while AI may not be the official reason, it is accelerating the shift toward leaner, more AI-savvy teams. 3) Is IT services growth slowing down? If so, how is that impacting jobs? Yes, growth is clearly slowing. Indias top six IT firms added just 3,847 employees in Q1FY26, a 72% drop from the previous quarter. According to Bengaluru-based consultancy UnearthInsight, core markets like the US, which account for around 70% of the industrys revenue, are underperforming. For TCS, revenue from North America, which contributes 49% of its business, declined 2.7% in the quarter, with segments like retail and life sciences registering weak growth. Discretionary tech spending has softened, particularly in the US and Europe. At the same time, AI-led efficiencies are breaking the traditional linear link between headcount and revenue. Hiring is now more selective and focused on niche skillsets. The result: layoffs, onboarding delays, and subdued lateral hiring, especially at the mid-level. 4) What happens to the IT sector's pyramid model? The sector is in the middle of a structural reset. The traditional pyramid model, built on mass hiring at the base and layered management above, is giving way to leaner, outcome-focused teams. AI, automation, and cloud-native delivery are reshaping roles, skill requirements, and billing structures. Experts say companies must pivot to product-led, platform-first strategies to stay relevant. TCSs move underscores that even the most stable players are not insulated from this shift. More layoffs and continued margin pressure are likely. 5) How will this impact campus hiring and salaries? Campus hiring is already under pressure. Entry-level recruitment has dropped nearly 50% from pre-pandemic levels. TCS has paused lateral hiring and salary hikes, and onboarding delays now exceed 65 days for some roles, according to reports. IT services firms are no longer the top choice on campuses. Product companies, GCCs, startups, and end-user IT departments of large conglomerates have moved up the pecking order. Entry-level salaries in IT services have remained stagnant at 4-4.5 lakh for years, while GCCs offer roughly 15% higher pay, making them more attractive to freshers. While GCCs and startups may absorb some of the talent, the traditional volume hiring model is fading. Freshers now face tougher screening, longer wait times, and limited salary growth, unless they bring in-demand, AI-aligned skills to the table. 6) Can Agentic AI take away jobs? If so, at what levels? Agentic AI, systems that can autonomously plan and execute tasks, is starting to disrupt roles centred on coordination, monitoring, and repetitive execution. Mid-level managers, manual testers, and legacy system specialists are among the most vulnerable, as AI agents increasingly deliver faster, cheaper outcomes. The shift isnt just about reducing headcountits redefining what counts as billable and valuable in a tech-first delivery model. According to one of the Big Four consultancies, Agentic AI is also beginning to impact L1 jobs, entry-level roles such as technical assistants. Over the next 12-18 months, it expects 20-30% of such positions to be affected. Functions like vendor invoicing, technical support, accounts payable, and HR tasks such as payroll management are particularly at risk, given their suitability for automation. 7) How are GCC growth and US tariffs impacting IT services? US tariffs are affecting client decision-making and dampening IT spending in key sectors such as retail, automobiles, and manufacturing. Many clients are holding back discretionary tech investments while they wait for greater policy clarity. Also Read | Staffing firms pivot to GCCs as IT hiring slows down At the same time, the rapid expansion of global capability centres (GCCs) is reshaping the IT services landscape. According to a recent Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) report, India has emerged as a global hub for GCCs, hosting over 1,800 centres as of FY25. That number could rise to nearly 5,000 by 2030, employing 4-5 million people directly. This expansion is expected to reduce the volume of work outsourced to third-party IT service providers. GCCs are evolving from low-cost delivery centres into innovation hubs, hiring for advanced skills such as product engineering, analytics, AI, and cloud services. PwC estimates that the value added by top-tier GCCs is nearly 20% higher than that of traditional IT services firms. As a result, GCCs are becoming front-runners in both job creation and value delivery. Many IT services companies are responding by aligning more closely with GCCs and appointing dedicated GCC heads to deepen collaboration. Mumbai: Omnichannel eyewear retailer Lenskart has filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India, paving the way for an initial public offering (IPO) later this year. The company plans to raise 2,150 crore in fresh capital, while existing investors will offload 132.28 million shares through an offer for sale (OFS), according to the filing. Prominent selling shareholders include founder Peyush Bansal, Neha Bansal, Amit Chaudhary, Sumeet Kapahi, SoftBank, Kedaara Capital, Alpha Wave Ventures, and MacRitchie Investments, among others. Lenskart, India's largest eyewear retailer, is reportedly seeking a valuation of $8-9 billion. It has appointed Kotak Mahindra Capital, Axis Capital, Citi, Morgan Stanley, and Avendus Capital as book-running lead managers for the issue. The company joins a growing list of Indian startups, including Pine Labs, Curefoods, Capillary Technologies, Shiprocket, Groww, and Urban Company, that have filed draft IPO papers in recent months. Others such as PhysicsWallah and Bluestone are also expected to go public soon. Lenskart plans to deploy the IPO proceeds towards capital expenditure for setting up new company-owned and company-operated (CoCo) stores in India, lease-related payments for CoCo locations, investments in technology and cloud infrastructure, brand marketing and business promotion, potential inorganic acquisitions, and general corporate purposes. Founded in 2010 by Peyush Bansal, along with Amit Chaudhary, Neha Bansal, and Sumeet Kapahi, Lenskart has raised $1.08 billion across 19 funding rounds, including $18.2 million in a Series I round in July 2023. Its backers include TPG and Chiratae Ventures. The company, which sells prescription eyewear, sunglasses, and contact lenses, has a presence in India, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. Over the past year, it has relocated a significant portion of its global manufacturing to India to cut costs and streamline its supply chainshifting most of its frame production from Japan to its facility in Rajasthan. Lenskart has also ramped up its omnichannel strategy, operating over 2,500 retail outlets and forging quick-commerce partnerships with Blinkit, the Zomato-backed delivery platform. Lenskart IPO: As Lenskart filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) today, one particular disclosure caught attention. The company revealed that the degree certificate and marksheets of one of its promoters, Sumeet Kapahi, are not traceable. Sumeet Kapahi, who serves as Global Head of Sourcing at Lenskart, is one of the companys promoters. The missing documents were mentioned under the risk factors section of the DRHP. According to the details in the DRHP, Kapahi has been unable to trace the copies of his B.Com (Hons.) degree and marksheets from the University of Delhi. While he has written multiple emails and a letter to the concerned university requesting for a copy of his degree certificate, and has applied for copies of the marksheets on the portal of the university on its website as well, a response from the university is awaited. There is no assurance that the university will respond to such emails and letters in a timely manner, or at all, the filing further added. The company also added that there can be no assurances that he will be able to trace the relevant documents pertaining to his educational qualifications in future or at all. Who is Sumeet Kapahi? According to the company's website, Kapahi is one of the co-founders of Lenskart, along with Peyush Bansal, Amit Choudhary, Neha Bansal and Ramneek Khurana. He was the third one to join hands with Peeyush and Choudhary. Kapahi has an extensive background in working with global eyewear brands. Prior to joining Lenkart in 2011, he was previously associated with Ray-Ban Sun Optics India Limited. At Lenskart, Kapahi is responsible for developing, planning sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships and driving cost optimisation for the company. Sumeet Kapahi's Remuneration Details According to the DRHP, Kapahi was paid a compensation of 2.246 crore in the financial year 2024-25 (FY25). This included provisions for incentives amounting to 50 lakh, payable in FY26. How much stake is Sumeet Kapahi selling in Lenskart IPO? Kapahi is looking to sell up to 2,868,457 equity shares of face value of 2 each via the OFs. He is one of the promoters selling shareholders in the IPO. Kapahi had acquired the company stock at an average weighted cost of 8.11 per share. Peyush Bansal, Neha Bansal, and Amit Chaudhary are the other promoters selling shareholders. Meanwhile, SVF II Lightbulb (Cayman) Limited, Schroders Capital Private Equity Asia Mauritius Limited, PI Opportunities Fund II, Macritchie Investments Pte. Ltd., Kedaara Capital Fund II LLP, and Alpha Wave Ventures LP, are the investors looking to offload stake via the OFS. About Lenksart IPO Lenskart IPO includes a fresh issue of equity shares, totalling up to 2,150 crore, along with an offer for sale (OFS) of up to 132,288,941 equity shares. The company may consider a pre-IPO placement amounting to 430 crore before submitting the Red Herring Prospectus (RHP), which, if executed, would reduce the fresh issue size. The company plans to use the funds for setting up new CoCo stores in India, investing in technology and cloud infra along with brand marketing and pursuing unidentified acquisitions and general corporate purposes. National Securities Depository Ltd (NSDL) is set to launch its initial public offering (IPO) on July 30, aiming to raise 4,011.60 crore from the primary market. NSDL IPO is entirely an offer for sale (OFS) of 5.01 crore equity shares, sold at an IPO price band of 760 to 800 per share. NSDL IPO will close on August 1, and the equity shares are proposed to be listed on the BSE, where they will compete with rival depository Central Depository Services (India) Ltd (CDSL). As key players in Indias capital market infrastructure, NSDL and CDSL operate in the depository services segment, competing across metrics such as the number of depository participants (DPs), instruments processed, innovation, and customer reach. Heres a comparative analysis of the two: Business Overview NSDL remains the largest depository in India in terms of the number of issuers, active instruments, market share in demat settlement volumes, and total assets under custody as of March 31, 2025. Market Share: NSDL commanded a 73.04% share in unlisted equity companies, 66.03% in dematerialised share settlements, and 65.27% in active instruments in FY25. Network: NSDL had 65,391 service centres through its DPs compared to CDSLs 18,918. Demat Accounts: NSDL reported 3.95 crore demat accounts with 294 registered DPs. In contrast, CDSL became the first depository to cross 15.29 crore demat accounts as of March 31, 2025, driven largely by retail participation through fintech and broker platforms. Issuer Growth: The number of companies whose securities are held in demat form grew at a CAGR of 20.6% for NSDL (from 17,835 in FY17 to 79,773 in FY25) and 17.5% for CDSL (from 9,887 to 35,922 during the same period). While NSDL leads in terms of institutional depth and asset value, CDSL dominates in retail reach and account volumes. Also Read | NSDL IPO Explained: 10 key things to know from RHP Financial Performance CDSL reported a consolidated net profit of 526 crore in FY25, a 25% YoY growth, with revenue rising 32% YoY to 1,199 crore. NSDL posted a net profit of 343.12 crore in FY25, growing 24.5% from 275.45 crore in FY24. Revenue increased 12.4% YoY to 1,535.19 crore. CDSL exhibits higher profitability margins (~48%) compared to NSDL (~22%), owing to its leaner operational model and stronger retail-driven scalability. Valuation and Investment Perspective NSDL is eyeing a valuation of approximately 16,000 crore through its IPO, translating to a P/E multiple of ~47x on FY25 earnings. In comparison, CDSL trades at a market cap of ~ 32,000 crore, with a trailing P/E of around 65x, supported by its aggressive retail expansion and robust financial performance. According to Mohit Gulati, CIO and Managing Partner, ITI Growth Opportunities Fund, both NSDL and CDSL have cemented themselves as core infrastructure in Indias capital markets, yet their current valuations and risk-reward profiles differ meaningfully. From a risk-reward perspective, CDSLs continued growth momentum and the expanding Indian demat universe offer robust rewards, but the rich valuation increases downside risk if execution falters. NSDL, with its established institutional base, offers relatively lower short-term momentum but a more attractive entry point at IPO potentially a better risk-adjusted bet for investors looking to participate in Indias long-term capital market growth story, Gulati said. The right choice hinges on investor risk appetite: CDSL for near-term outperformance at higher risk, NSDL for value-conscious investors seeking steady compounding as the ecosystem deepens, Gulati added. Anirudh Garg, Fund Manager and Partner, INVasset PMS noted that CDSL is the undisputed king of retail, hosting over 14.6 crore demat accounts nearly 4x that of NSDL driven by fintechs and broker-led onboarding. In contrast, NSDL controls the big-ticket institutional pie: nearly 464 lakh crore in assets under custody versus CDSLs 71 lakh crore, backed by mutual funds, insurers, pension funds, and sovereign accounts. NSDL has the depth; CDSL has the breadth. CDSLs FY25 EPS stands at 25.2 with a ~65x P/E, while NSDL IPO is priced around 17 EPS and 4447x P/E. Network strength also diverges CDSL has wider reach with 581 DPs and fintech-first DNA, while NSDL leans on institutional integration across 296 DPs and deeper issuer partnerships. One is a retail volume play; the other is an institutional value moat. Both are irreplaceable to Indias equity ecosystem your choice depends on whether youre betting on scale or strategic depth, Garg said. Should you apply for NSDL IPO? Brokerage firm Anand Rathi has recommended a Subscribe rating on the NSDL IPO. At the upper price band, NSDL is valued at a P/E of 46.6x based on FY25 earnings, with a post-issue market capitalisation of 16,000 crore and a Return on Net Worth (RoNW) of 17.1%. We believe the offer is fairly priced, the brokerage said in its IPO note. Both NSDL and CDSL are critical pillars of India's capital market ecosystem, each catering to different segments NSDL with its institutional dominance and CDSL with its retail outreach. Investors seeking long-term participation in Indias equity infrastructure may find NSDLs IPO a compelling, value-oriented opportunity. Meanwhile, CDSL continues to reward investors betting on retail growth and technological integration, albeit at a higher valuation premium. Shanti Gold International IPO: The initial public offering (IPO) of Shanti Gold International closed for subscription today, July 29, amid a stellar demand from all categories of investors and a steady trend in the grey market premium (GMP). Shanti Gold International IPO had opened for subscription on July 25 in the price band of 189 to 199 per share. The 360 crore IPO consisted entirely of fresh issue of 1.81 crore shares. Investors could bid for Shanti Gold International IPO in lots of 75 shares, requiring a retail investor to shell out 14,175 to subscribe to one lot of the issue. The company plans to use the funds raised via the IPO for funding capital requirements for setting up a facility in Jaipur, meeting working capital needs, repayments of certain corporate borrowings and general corporate needs. Now, with the closure of Shanti Gold International IPO, focus will shift towards its allotment status. Shanti Gold International IPO allotment date is likely to be July 30. Shanti Gold International IPO Subscription Status Shanti Gold International IPO was subscribed 80.80 times at the end of the third day of the bidding process on Tuesday. The company garnered bids for 102.35 crore shares as against 1.26 crore shares on offer. The NII category was subscribed the most at 151.18 times, followed by the QIB segment, with 117.33 times subscription. Meanwhile, the retail portion received 29.77 times bids. Shanti Gold International IPO GMP Shanti Gold International IPO GMP today is 37 per share. This means that shares of Shanti Gold International are trading 37 above the issue price in the grey market. At the prevailing GMP, Shanti Gold International shares could list at 236, a premium of 18.6%. However, investors should note that GMP is subject to rapid fluctuations and should not be used as the basis for making investment decisions. Instead, investors should also consider the company fundamentals and their own risk appetite. Also Read | Lenskart IPO DRHP exposes an awkward detail about a promoter - Missing marksheet About Shanti Gold International The company is a leading manufacturer of high-quality 22kt CZ casting gold jewellery, in terms of installed production capacity. It specialises in the design and production of all types of gold jewellery. Balkrishna Industries Ltd is facing earnings downgrades as the tyre maker grapples with twin headwinds: weak demand and margin compression. Its June-quarter (Q1FY26) performance was weighed down by muted demand in its key export market, Europe, and the impact of US tariffs, which have kept the ordering cycle volatile. Volumes declined 3% year-on-year to 80,664 tonnes in Q1, and the management refrained from providing a volume guidance for FY26. Revenue was largely flat at 2,759 crore, while Ebitda fell 8% to 656 crore. The 228 basis point (bps) drop in Ebitda margin to 23.8% was seen as a key disappointment. The company has guided for an operating margin of 24-25% for FY26. Also Read | Why Balkrishna Industries new business entry is unsettling for investors A base tariff of 10% applies to Balkrishnas exports to the US, and the company has been unable to pass on the entire increase to consumers. It has absorbed 40% of the impact, which is expected to persist through Q2FY26. With multiple US trade tariffs getting finalized at around 15% (EU/Japan), we believe India tariffs are likely to inch up from around 10%. This remains a near-term demand/margin headwind for Balkrishna," said a Nomura Global Markets Research report. It has cut its FY26 Ebitda and earnings per share forecast by 8% and 16% respectively. While raw material costs are expected to remain stable sequentially in Q2FY26, margin pressures are likely to continue. Balkrishna, which has a niche in the off-highway tyre (OHT) segment, recently announced plans to diversify into domestic tyre categories including truck and bus radials and passenger car radials (PCR). The concern, however, is that this expansion could be margin-dilutive over the medium term, given intense competition from established players. Balkrishna would launch commercial vehicle radial tyres by Q4FY26 and PCR tyres by Q3FY27.A capital expenditure of 3,500 crore has been outlined for the next three years. Considering the higher upfront investments in the new tyre segments which have higher competitive intensity and lower margins than the companys core business, and the lack of visibility for business normalcy of its core business, we remain cautious," said HDFC Securities. Also Read | Gradual margin recovery to keep Apollo Tyres on tough terrain After hitting a 52-week low of 2,152.05 apiece on 7 April, following the Liberation Day tariff announcement, the stock has recovered to 2,746. It now trades at an undemanding 25x FY27 earnings estimates, according to Bloomberg. However, Balkrishna has yet to prove itself in the new segments, and striking a balance between gaining market share and protecting core returns could be a significant challenge. Private sector lender Kotak Mahindra Bank and public sector banking (PSB) heavyweight Bank of Baroda (BoB) recently released their earnings for the quarter ended June 2025 (Q1FY26), reflecting divergent trends in performance and investor sentiment. While Kotak Bank reported a sharp fall in profitability due to elevated provisioning and narrowing margins, BoB delivered a steady performance and is emerging as a stronger value proposition. Kotak Bank Q1: Profit hit amid jump in provisions Kotak Mahindra Bank reported a 7.6 per cent decline in net profit for the June quarter, falling to 3,281.7 crore from 3,520 crore in the same period last year. The unadjusted profit in Q1FY25 had stood significantly higher at 6,249.8 crore, boosted by one-time gains from the stake sale of Kotak Mahindra General Insurance Company to Zurich Insurance. The key drag on profitability in Q1FY26 was the steep increase in provisioning and contingencies, which jumped 109 per cent year-on-year to 1,208 crore. Although the net interest income (NII) rose 6 per cent to 7,259 crore, driven by 14 per cent loan growth. The gains were constrained by a 37 basis point fall in net interest margin (NIM) to 4.65 per cent. Bank of Baroda Q1: Stable show, improving metrics In contrast, Bank of Baroda reported a 1.9 per cent rise in net profit to 4,541 crore, up from 4,458 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. While NII declined 1.4 per cent to 11,435 crore, BoBs overall operational performance remained strong. The banks global NIM dropped to 2.91 per cent, down from 3.18 per cent a year ago. However, it still beat Street expectations. Kotak Bank, BoB: How to trade post Q1 results? Vaqarjaved Khan, Senior Fundamental Analyst, Angel One, said the earnings report for Bank of Baroda was better than Kotak Bank, primarily due to NIM margins performing better than expected on both the firms internal and consensus metrics. Q1 FY26 NIM margins for BoB declined by 7 basis points to 2.91%. Loan growth increased 12% YoY, which is better than its peers for BoB. GNPA and NNPA ratios have remained stable for the PSU bank, Khan noted. He added, On the other hand, Kotak Mahindra Bank Q1 FY26 PAT declined 8% QoQ, mainly on account of higher-than-expected margin compression as a result of weak growth in unsecured credit. Credit cost increased as well due to a rise in slippages in the MFI and retail CV segment. Meanwhile, provisions doubled to 1,208 crore, and the GNPA ratio rose to 1.48%, which was slightly higher than expectations. Varun N Joshi, Smallcase Manager and Executive Director at GoalFi, believes that as the Q1 FY26 earnings season unfolds, Indias banking sector continues to show resilience, but investor preferences may be due for a rethink. Traditionally dominated by private sector heavyweights, the narrative is shifting, and public sector giant Bank of Baroda is emerging as a serious contender, he stated. Joshi added, BoB reported robust operational metrics this quarter: net interest margins improved to 3.27%, return on equity came in at 15.5%, and credit growth remained strong, particularly in the retail and MSME segments. Asset quality, once a concern, now looks stable, with net NPAs at just 0.6%. Yet, despite this performance, the stock trades at a steep discountunder 1x price-to-book and less than 7x earningswith a dividend yield exceeding 3%." In contrast, Kotak Mahindra Bank, long favoured for its premium positioning and conservative lending, delivered a weaker set of numbers, said Joshi. "While the long-term franchise remains intact, the near-term outlook is clouded by slower growth and leadership changes. At over 3.5x book and nearly 27x earnings, its lofty valuation offers limited room for upside without a clear catalyst, he added. Kotak Bank, Bank of Baroda: Share price performances Kotak Mahindra Bank stock has gained 17 per cent over the past year, but has shown weakness recently, with a 9 per cent drop in July after rising 4 per cent in May. In April, the stock had slipped 6 per cent following a six-month rally from November 2024. Bank of Baroda, meanwhile, has lost 2.5 per cent over the past year, and declined 3.4 per cent in July. However, it posted strong performance earlier in the year with a 16 per cent rise in March and 9 per cent in April, reflecting renewed investor interest. On Monday the Nifty 50 fell by 156.10 points or 0.63% to close at 24,680.90, while the BSE Sensex lost 572.07 points or 0.70% to settle at 80,891.02. Nifty Bank also continued its downward trend, dropping 444 points or 0.79% to end at 56,084.90 after breaking key support zones in the afternoon session. Top 3 stocks recommended for today by Ankush Bajaj Piramal Enterprises Ltd (current price: 1,295.80) Why its recommended: The stock has shown strength by closing 1.36% higher in the previous session despite a broader market sell-off. The daily RSI is at 63 and the MACD is above the zero line, both indicating increasing bullish strength. Once the stock sustains above 1,320, the setup suggests a potential breakout toward fresh lifetime highs. Breakout zone: Sustained move above 1,320 could open new highs Pattern: Strength continuation against broader market weakness MACD: Positive and rising above zero line RSI: Daily RSI at 63, suggesting bullish momentum Technical analysis: With strong momentum and resistance nearing breakout levels, the stock appears poised for an upward continuation toward 1,355 in the near term. Risk factors: A close below 1,264 will invalidate the current bullish setup and may signal short-term weakness. A disciplined stop-loss at 1,264 is recommended Buy at: 1,295.80 Target price: 1,355 Stop loss: 1,264 Also Read | Persistents goals seem ambitious post Q1 blip ICICI Bank Ltd (current price: 1,488.40) Why its recommended: ICICI Bank stock is showing strong bullish momentum with the daily RSI at 65 and MACD at 13. On lower time frames, the stock has formed a solid base around 1,474, which is expected to support further upward movement. The setup suggests potential for a short-term rally toward 1,504. Breakout zone: Built a firm base at 1,474 on lower timeframes Pattern: Base formation with follow-through momentum MACD: Positive at 13, showing strong trend strength RSI: Daily RSI at 65, indicating positive momentum Technical analysis: With solid momentum and base formation in place, ICICI BANK appears well-positioned to rally toward 1,504 in the near term. Risk factors: A close below 1,480 will invalidate the current bullish setup and may signal short-term weakness. A disciplined stop-loss at 1,480 is recommended Buy at: 1,488.40 Target price: 1,504 Stop loss: 1,480 Cipla Ltd (current price: 1,572) Why its recommended: Cipla stock has broken out of a rectangle consolidation pattern on the daily chart, confirming bullish continuation. The daily RSI is at 70 and MACD at 5, both pointing to strong underlying momentum. This technical setup supports further upside toward the 1,615 level. Breakout zone: Rectangle breakout confirmed on daily chart Pattern: Consolidation breakout with momentum confirmation MACD: Positive at 5, showing a strong uptrend RSI: Daily RSI at 70, reflecting bullish strength Technical analysis: With the price breaking out from a defined range and supported by strengthening momentum, the stock is favorably positioned for a move toward 1,615. Risk factors: A close below 1,548 will invalidate the current bullish setup and may signal short-term weakness. A disciplined stop-loss at 1,548 is recommended Buy at: 1,572.00 Target price: 1,615 Stop loss: 1,548 How the market performed on 28 July Losses were spread across sectors, underscoring the bearish mood. The realty sector plunged 4.07%, while PSU banks and metals declined 1.20% and 1.15%, respectively, on the back of weak institutional sentiment and broader market uncertainty. On the defensive side, some sectors managed to stay afloat. The pharma index rose 0.43%, FMCG edged up 0.28%, and healthcare posted a 0.09% gain as investors rotated into safer bets amid heightened volatility. Shriram Finance led the gainers with a 2.86% rise, followed by Cipla at 2.58%, and Hero MotoCorp, which advanced 1.43%, supported by buying in healthcare and defensives. However, the overall market tone remained weak, with heavyweight laggards weighing on the indices. Kotak Bank suffered a steep decline of 7.44% amid concerns around asset quality and stretched valuations. Bajaj Finance dropped 3.64%, and Wipro fell 3.53%, adding to the downward drag. Nifty technical analysis: daily & hourly The Nifty ended Monday's session on a weak note, down 156.10 points or 0.63% at 24,680.90. As highlighted in the previous update, a breakdown below the psychological level of 25,000 was likely to trigger further downside toward 24,700-24,500. The index has now followed through on that bearish setup, validating the expected move and indicating growing selling pressure. With the latest close, Nifty has firmly slipped below all key moving averages, including the 20-day SMA at 25,217 and the 40-day EMA at 25,023. On the intraday chart as well, it remains under pressure, trading below both the 20-hour SMA (24,881) and the 40-hour EMA (24,947), highlighting persistent weakness across timeframes. View Full Image Source: TradingView Momentum indicators are clearly reflecting this bearish shift. The daily RSI has cooled off sharply to 37, indicating a lack of buying strength and confirming the loss of upward momentum. On the hourly chart, RSI has plunged to an extremely oversold level of 20, which may result in minor technical bounces but doesn't negate the prevailing weakness. The MACD readings also align with this bearish tone, with the daily MACD dropping to 57 and the hourly MACD further deteriorating to 103, reinforcing the idea that the downtrend has gained traction. View Full Image Source: TradingView In the derivatives segment, the options data has turned decisively bearish. The total call open interest stands at 22.90 crore, significantly higher than the put OI at 12.03 crore, with a wide net difference of 10.88 crore clearly reflecting heavy call writing and a lack of aggressive put writing. Changes in OI continue to support the bearish trend, with call OI rising by 3.82 crore and put OI by only by 1.05 crore, resulting in a net change of -2.77 crore. The put-call ratio (PCR) has dropped to 0.53, indicating aggressive call buildup and growing bearish sentiment. Strike-wise positioning reveals that the highest call OI is placed at 25,000, while fresh writing has emerged at the 24,800 strike, making both levels near-term resistance zones. On the put side, maximum open interest is seen at the 24,000 strike, while the 24,600 strike has seen fresh additions, suggesting it may act as immediate support. Also Read | Why Kotak Banks valuation discount to top private peers is justified India VIX remains relatively stable, but the broader setup now favours the bears unless a strong recovery above 25,000 occurs. Until then, rallies are likely to be sold into. The short-term structure suggests the next support is placed at 24,460, a level that may offer temporary stability. However, if this breaks, further weakness toward 24,20024,000 cannot be ruled out. In summary, the Nifty has transitioned from a neutral-to-bullish setup to a clear bearish structure with momentum and price action both favoring the downside. Unless the index quickly reclaims levels above 24,80025,000, the bias remains weak. Traders are advised to maintain a bearish stance and consider selling on intraday rallies, with immediate resistance at 24,800 and support now placed at 24,460. A decisive break below 24,460 could trigger fresh downside, while only a close above 25,000 would hint at a potential trend reversal. Ankush Bajaj is a Sebi-registered research analyst. His registration number is INH000010441. Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing. Registration granted by Sebi and certification from NISM in no way guarantee performance of the intermediary or provide any assurance of returns to investors. Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions. Sri Lotus Developers and Realty Ltd, a Mumbai-based luxury real estate developer, is seeking to raise 792 crore through its initial public offering, which is scheduled to open on 30 July. But this isnt just another real estate IPO. Several factors make Lotus Developerss IPO stand out. The entire IPO is a fresh issue of sharesnot a single promoter is selling. That means all the proceeds will go to the company, primarily to support its ongoing projects. Lotus Developers plans to use 550 crore of the IPO proceeds for funding construction and development, and the rest for general corporate expenses. 550 crore of the IPO proceeds for funding construction and development, and the rest for general corporate expenses. A long list of marquee names has invested in the companyactors Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Tiger Shroff, Manoj Bajpayee, the Roshan family, and seasoned investor Ashish Kacholia. None of them is selling their stake in the IPO, which speaks to their confidence in the companys future. Lotus has priced the offer at 140-150 per share, which implies a valuation of 7,331 crore at the upper end. This is roughly the same level at which the company raised funds privately from these celebrities in December, despite its profits having doubled since then. That kind of consistency in pricing is rare, especially in a heated IPO market. What sets Lotus Developers apart from listed peers? Lotus Developers differentiates itself with its capital-light approach, avoiding the traditional land-acquisition model its peers follow. Instead, the company partners with housing societies and existing property owners through development agreements. This helps minimise upfront capital outlay, enabling the company to earn better returns. Also, Lotus focuses on greenfield projects and joint development projects. It finances its projects through pre-sales, in line with industry practices. The real differentiator is what it builds and for whom. What customer segment does Lotus Developers target? Lotus Developers targets high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and ultra-HNIsa fast-growing segment. It focuses on luxury homes priced above 3 crore and ultra-luxury offerings above 7 crore, catering to a demand category that has gained significant momentum. Property consultancy Anarock estimates that demand in the 2.5 crore-plus segment has grown fourfold, from 3% in 2021 to 12% in the first quarter of 2025-26. This trend is expected to continue as the number of HNIs in the country is projected to double from about 850,000 now to 1.65 million by 2027. What are Lotus Developerss key markets? The companys projects are concentrated in some of Mumbais most premium markets. These include Andheri West, Juhu, Bandra West, and Prabhadevi, where it holds 13% market share in terms of supply and a 12% sales share in units priced above 7 crore. Lotus Developers also plans to expand to Mumbais Nepean Sea Road and Ghatkopar areas. Does Lotus Developers enjoy pricing power? The company commands a premium of around 22% when compared with the average quoted price for similar real estate projects in Juhu. Strong brand recall, high build quality, timely project execution, and customer satisfaction contribute to the premium pricing. Lotuss projects also enjoy strong pre-launch demandmore than 50% of the saleable area is typically sold even before occupancy certificates are issued. This reflects both brand confidence and pricing power. The company also boasts a strong execution track record, completing projects 20 months ahead of schedule, on average. For a sector often plagued by delays, this early-delivery record stands out. Another differentiator is Lotus Developerss product customization. Each project is tailored to specific buyer preferences rather than identical units. For instance, its commercial project, Signature, includes private theatres and banquet lounges. Residential projects Ananya and Ayana include rooftop amenities. This contributes to a strong price appreciation from the time of starting a project to its completion. The Signature projects price appreciated by 232%, while prices at Ananya and Ayana increased by 24% and 84%, respectively. How strong is Lotuss project pipeline? As of June, Lotus had completed four projects comprising 334 units, with a developable area of about 931,448 square feet and saleable area of about 378,396 sq.ft. Redevelopment contributed 54%, while greenfield projects made up the remaining 46%. Of the 334 completed units, 255 were commercial and 79 were residential. Lotus has not completed any Joint development project yet. Of the 334 completed units, 255 were commercial and 79 were residential. Lotus has not completed any Joint development project yet. A sizable portion of Lotuss saleable area and units remains unsold, offering near-term visibility for revenue recognition. Additionally, Lotus has a strong pipeline of ongoing and upcoming projects. The company is now focusing more on residential projects to diversify its revenue mix. Lotus has five ongoing residential projects comprising 167 units and about 295,586 sq.ft of saleable area. Of this, 115 units are scheduled for completion in FY27, and the rest in FY28. This phased timeline provides steady visibility for revenue recognition over the medium term. Lotus Developers also has upcoming projects totaling 4.9 million sq.ft. in developable areaover 6x its current developable areaslated for phased completion during FY28-30. If demand in the luxury and ultra-luxury segment holds up, this pipeline could be a strong revenue driver over the medium term. How is Lotus Developerss revenue split across segments? Lotus currently generates revenue from five active projects. While redevelopment accounts for the majority of its developable area, greenfield projects drive most of its topline. The companys flagship greenfield commercial project, Signature, which received a completion certificate in 2023, accounted for 62% of its revenue in FY25, up from 32% in FY23. The commercial segment contributed 81% of Lotuss FY25 revenue of 550 crore. Luxury housing made up 6% of FY25 revenue, while ultra-luxury residences contributed 7%lower than 51% and 18%, respectively, in FY23. This sharp skew toward commercial revenue has made Lotuss current revenue concentrated. However, this is expected to diversify in the coming years as more residential projects move toward completion. How has Lotus performed financially? Lotuss revenue has grown more than threefold in two years, from 167 crore in FY23 to 550 crore in FY25. Net profit rose faster, jumping 13x to 227 crore from 17 crore. The sharp revenue increase has driven a strong operating leverage benefit, with its ebitda margin expanding from 13% in FY23 to 53% in FY25. This is significantly higher than Arkade Developers Ltds 30% ebitda margin and Suraj Estate Developers Ltds 37%. Lotuss improving margin profile and profitability have translated into strong return ratios. Return on equity (RoE) stands at 24% and return on capital employed (RoCE) at 27%higher than Arkades RoE and RoCE of 18% and 20%, respectively, and Surajs 11% and 15%. Moreover, as Lotuss sales ramped up, its cash and cash equivalents grew nearly fivefold, from 72 crore in FY23 to 348 crore in FY25, helping the company improve its balance sheet significantly. Lotuss debt-to-equity ratio is now down to 0.13, from a high of 6.9 in FY23. Lotuss trade receivables, however, have grown sixfold, from 6% in FY23 to 37% in FY25. Thus, any prolonged delay or inability to recover these receivables could reduce profits and impact cash flows. Higher geographical concentration in Mumbai also poses a risk. Can Lotus justify its premium and sustain growth? At a price-to-earnings multiple of 33x, Lotus is asking for a significant valuation premium over peers like Arkade (23x) and Suraj (15x). Even after factoring in a premium for its strong margins, superior return ratios, and industry-leading growth, Lotuss valuation appears stretched. The valuation may still be justified provided Lotus sustains its current growth momentum. That said, residential real estate demand is showing signs of a slowdown. Lotuss higher exposure to commercial projects, which remains more stable, offers some cushion. The companys ability to scale up its upcoming projects, which are quite large in size, will be crucial in sustaining growth. The bigger question is, can Lotus maintain its growth momentum from a larger base? Madhvendra has over seven years of experience in equity markets and writes detailed research articles on listed Indian companies, sectoral trends, and macroeconomic developments. The writer does not hold the stocks discussed in this article. The purpose of this article is only to share interesting charts, data points, and thought-provoking opinions. It is NOT a recommendation. If you wish to consider an investment, you are strongly advised to consult your advisor. This article is strictly for educational purposes only. The Indian stock market benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty 50, are likely to open on a tepid note Tuesday, tracking weak global market cues. The trends on Gift Nifty also indicate a muted start for the Indian benchmark index. The Gift Nifty was trading around 24,672 level, a discount of nearly 38 points from the Nifty futures previous close. On Monday, the domestic market ended with sharp losses, with the benchmark Nifty 50 closing below 24,700 level. The Sensex cracked 572.07 points, or 0.70%, to close at 80,891.02, while the Nifty 50 settled 156.10 points, or 0.63%, lower at 24,680.90. Heres what to expect from Sensex, Nifty 50 and Bank Nifty today: Sensex Prediction Sensex formed a bearish candle on daily charts and a lower top formation on intraday charts, indicating further weakness from the current levels. We are of the view that as long as Sensex is trading below 81,100, the weak sentiment is likely to continue. On the downside, the index may correct until 80,500 - 80,350. On the upside, a break above 81,100 could lead to a pullback rally extending up to 81,400. Further upside may also continue, potentially pushing Sensex up to 81,700, said Shrikant Chouhan, Head Equity Research, Kotak Securities. Nifty OI Data In the derivatives segment, the highest Nifty call open interest (OI) was seen at the 24,800 strike, indicating a potential resistance zone, while the highest put open interest stood at the 24,500 level. This setup suggests that a firm close above 24,800 would be essential to revive bullish momentum and change the prevailing sentiment, said Hardik Matalia, Derivative Analyst - Research at Choice Equity Broking. Nifty 50 Prediction Nifty 50 index dropped 0.63% on July 28, and formed a bearish candlestick for the third consecutive session. A reasonable negative candle was formed on the daily chart with upper shadow. Technically, this market action indicates downside continuation pattern with sell on rise opportunity. The bearish chart pattern like lower highs and lower lows intact on the daily chart and present weakness could be in line with the new lower low formation, said Nagaraj Shetti, Senior Technical Research Analyst at HDFC Securities. According to him, the underlying trend of Nifty 50 remains weak and one may expect some more declines in the coming sessions. The next crucial lower supports to be watched are around 24,500, while immediate resistance is placed at 24,800. Also Read | Breakout stocks to buy or sell: Sumeet Bagadia recommends five shares to buy Sudeep Shah, Head - Technical and Derivatives Research, SBI Securities noted that the short-term averages of 20-day and 50-day EMAs have now begun to turn downward, confirming a shift in momentum, and the rising slope of the longer-term 100-day and 200-day EMAs has also started to flatten, indicating a slowdown in the broader uptrend. He also said that the daily RSI has slipped below the 40 level for the first time since April 2025, and is currently in a declining trajectory highlighting growing bearish momentum and lack of buying strength. Going ahead, the 100-day EMA zone of 24,580 24,550 is likely to act as an immediate support area for the Nifty 50 index. A breach below the 24,550 level could open the doors for a deeper correction, with the next key support placed near 24,450. On the flip side, any recovery is likely to face strong resistance near the 24,770 24,800 zone, which now acts as a crucial hurdle, Shah said. He believes a sustained trade above this level would be required to shift the short-term sentiment back to positive. With technical indicators pointing to waning momentum and increasing downside risks, he advises traders to stay cautious and closely monitor support zones for potential reversal signals. Dr. Praveen Dwarakanath, Vice President of Hedged.in said that the Nifty 50 index has closed below the lower Bollinger band, suggesting a further fall towards its next support at the 24,400 level. A breach of the support at 24,400 can quickly take the index to 24,000 levels. The options writers data for the present week also shows higher call writing, suggesting the weakness will continue. The ADX DI- line is sloping up and the ADX DI+ line is sloping down, indicating the momentum is on the downside. The weakness in the index can be due to the results of major stocks not aligning with the expectations, said Dwarakanath. Bank Nifty Prediction Bank Nifty index ended 444.00 points, or 0.79%, lower at 56,084.90 on Monday, forming a bearish candle and closing below the 50-day EMA on the daily chart, signaling intensified selling pressure. Bank Nifty breached its short-term swing low of 56,200 and formed a red candle of a daily scale, indicating weakness. On the downside, 55,500 and 55,150 are likely to act as crucial support zones. Thus, traders are advised to follow a sell-on-bounce strategy in Bank Nifty, said Hrishikesh Yedve, AVP Technical and Derivative Research, Asit C. Mehta Investment Intermediates Ltd. Bajaj Broking Research highlighted that the Bank Nifty index formed a bear candle with a long upper shadow which maintained lower high and lower low highlighting continuation of the corrective decline for the third session in a row. Bank Nifty index closed below the immediate support area of 56,200 - 56,300 being the last two weeks almost identical lows. A follow through weakness will open further downside towards 55,500 levels in the coming sessions. The 55,500 55,000 area remains a key support zone, as it aligns with the 100-day EMA and important Fibonacci retracement levels. This confluence reinforces it as a significant demand cluster on the downside, said the brokerage firm. City efforts to build a gun range and training facility for the Buffalo Police Department in the Broadway-Fillmore neighborhood moved forward Tuesday, with Buffalo Common Council Legislation Committee members setting a vote for a necessary approval at the next full Council meeting in September. After a public hearing on the issue, the Council voted to advance a measure that would change the city zoning map to allow the Police Department to operate the new facility, the former Matt Urban Center building on Paderewski Drive. The department is already using the building for active shooter simulations and other training. The city has bonded for $5 million, which it plans to use to build out an indoor shooting range on the property and other renovations to the building. Council Member Mitchell Nowakowski, whose Fillmore District encompasses the site, said he expects the Council will vote on the measure at the Sep. 2 meeting, the first after its August recess. He has maintained throughout the process that people who live in the neighborhood overwhelmingly support the project and that he and police representatives have held several neighborhood meetings to answer their questions. We had a meeting with the Buffalo Police Department, who went over and mitigated every concern you could think of noise, vibration, he said. Chris Hawley, president of the Central Terminal Neighborhood Association, spoke in favor of the project at the hearing and submitted a letter affirming that support. Hawley, who is also an urban planner in the citys Office of Strategic Planning, owns the Eugene V. Debs social club and lives in the apartment above the club a few blocks from the proposed gun range. He said police officials have met with the group several times and offered assurances about potential noise from the range and other concerns neighbors have. Police officials also agreed to a list of community benefits the group is seeking outlined in the letter, including a promise that no street trees would be removed, that a mural of civil rights icon John Lewis would be preserved, and that the gym police officers now use for training would be available for youth programming and other community uses. We feel confident that these recommendations are being implemented to the greatest extent practical, helping ensure that the police training facility can be a good fit for Broadway-Fillmore, Hawley said. We welcome the additional police presence in Broadway-Fillmore. Nathan Feist, a member of the advocacy group Our City Action Buffalo, spoke in opposition to the approval, noting, among other issues, what he has described as deficiencies in the application process also outlined in letters submitted to the city. He noted the lack of a negative declaration required under state law for the environmental review process, which did not appear in public materials provided as part of the planning or zoning boards approval process. Buffalo plans to open gun range on East Side for police training. Some neighbors aren't happy Buffalo's plan to operate a police gun range on the city's East Side is opposed by some residents, who said officials did not do enough to inform the public and get feedback on the project. He also said using the site for a training facility and gun range is inconsistent with the Central Terminal Restoration Corp.s proposed uses for the building and the citys own planning policies. Its grossly inadequate, Feist said of the Police Departments application for the necessary zoning change. And I believe the Common Council would open the city up to legal liability if the Council were to approve this clearly deficient application. Matthew Austin, a city resident who used to live in the neighborhood, also spoke out against the plan, saying the building should be used for purposes that better serve the whole community. He also said he filed a freedom of information request for documents related to the necessary environmental review but never received a response. I cannot find those documents anywhere, and Im just concerned, he said. Other groups, including Liberation for One, Liberation for All, or LOLA, have also asked the Council to reconsider using the money that would go toward the construction for other community uses. But Council members have pointed out that the bonds, which the city has already approved and secured, can only be used for the purpose they were taken under. Police representatives and Council members have also pointed to the fact that the department uses other departments shooting ranges for state-mandated training, limiting their ability to schedule training and costing the city $175,000 a year. The new facility may generate revenue by renting the space to other departments. Feist, during the hearing, noted that with no other financial factors like interest on the bonds or unexpected construction costs considered, it would take the city 30 years to recoup the $5 million investment. Thats not excluding utility, thats not excluding interest, thats not excluding other costs, he said. Nowakowski said he has spoken to all involved departments, including the law department, and that he has been told all requirements to move forward with final approval and construction have been completed. They said that all attachments have been submitted, that everything that weve been deliberating on, or will be deliberating on, it is satisfied and completed, he said. Stock Market Today: The markets started a new week on a weak note as the benchmark Nifty 50 index ended 0.63% lower at 24,680.90. The Bank Nifty declined 0.79% to 56,084.90, while most sectors, with the exception of FMCG , led by Metals & Realty, ended in the red. In the broader indices, mid- and small-caps also corrected 0.84-1.26%. Trade Setup for Tuesday As the Nifty is trading below 24,800, the weak sentiment is likely to continue. On the downside, the market may correct to 24,55024,500. On the upside, a break above 24,800 could lead to a pullback rally extending up to 24,900, as per Shrikant Chouhan, Head of Equity Research, Kotak Securities. For Bank Nifty, the 55,50055,000 area remains a key support zone as per Bajaj Broking. Global markets today and Q1 Results Markets are currently grappling with headwinds on both domestic and global fronts. On the domestic side, earnings disappointments and persistent foreign fund outflows are dampening sentiment. In the banking space, earlier resilience had helped limit the decline; however, renewed pressure across the sectorexcept for heavyweights ICICI Bank and HDFC Bankis adding to participants concerns. Globally, uncertainty surrounding trade deals, despite strength in the US markets, is contributing to the cautious approach, said Mishra, SVP, Research, Religare Broking. Stocks to buy today Regarding stocks to buy today, market expertsSumeet Bagadia, Executive Director at Choice Broking; Ganesh Dongre, Senior Manager of Technical Research at Anand Rathi; and Shiju Koothupalakkal, Senior Manager of Technical Research at Prabhudas Lilladherrecommended these eight intraday stocks for today: Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd, UPL Ltd, Punjab National Bank, Dabur India Ltd, REC Ltd, Lloyds Enterprises Ltd, and Syngene International Ltd. Sumeet Bagadia's stock picks Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd-Bagadia recommends buying TORNTPHARM at around 3622.9, keeping Stoploss at 3496, for a target at 3877. TORNTPHARM is exhibiting strong bullish momentum, currently trading at an all-time high of 3635. The stock surged by 0.53% in the latest session, reflecting firm buying interest and sustained upward strength. It has convincingly broken out of a multi-month consolidation zone, decisively surpassing the key resistance area around 3600a move that confirms bullish continuation and renewed market participation. From a technical standpoint. 2. UPL Ltd-Bagadia recommends buying UPL at around 729.85, keeping Stoploss at 704 for a target price of 781 UPL is currently trading at 729.85 and is exhibiting strong bullish momentum, supported by a steadily rising price structure and the formation of consistent higher swing lows. On the daily chart, the stock has printed a bullish candlestick and is on the verge of breaking out from a recent consolidation zone. Ganesh Dongre's stocks to buy today 3. Punjab National BankDongre recommends buying PNB at around 107, keeping stop-loss at 104 for a target price of 114 Stock has exhibited a strong, notable, continued bullish pattern, offering another promising opportunity for short-term traders. The stock is currently priced at 107 and maintaining strong support at 104. The technical setup indicates the potential for a price retracement towards the 114 level. With the stock reversing from a support base and showing signs of renewed strength, entering at the current market price with a stop-loss at 104 offers a prudent approach to capturing the anticipated upside. 4. Dabur India Ltd- Dogngre BUY DABUR @ 522 SL 515 TGT 535 Stock has exhibited a strong, notable, continued bullish pattern, offering another promising opportunity for short-term traders. The stock is currently priced at 522 and maintaining strong support at 515. The technical setup indicates the potential for a price retracement towards the 535 level. With the stock reversing from a support base and showing signs of renewed strength, entering at the current market price with a stop-loss at 515 offers a prudent approach to capturing the anticipated upside. 5. REC LtdDongre recommends buying REC Ltd at 392, keeping the stop loss at 382 for a target price of 410 In the latest short-term technical analysis, the stock has shown a strong and consistent bullish trend, indicating the potential for an extended upward move. The stock is currently trading at 392 and holding above a key support level at 382. This support zone serves as a critical point for risk management. Given the bullish momentum, traders are advised to consider a buying opportunity with a stop-loss placed strategically at 382 to manage downside risk. The target for this trade is set at 410, suggesting a favorable risk-to-reward ratio and a continuation of the prevailing upward trend. Shiju Koothupalakkal intraday stocks for today 6. Lloyds Enterprises Ltd-Koothupalakkal recommends buying LLOYDS ENT at around 81. Target: 87 Stop loss: 79 The stock, after witnessing a small correction, has consolidated and shown signs of stability. Currently having a bullish candle formation on the daily chart has improved the bias, and we can anticipate a further rise in the coming days. The RSI is currently well placed, indicating a positive trend reversal to signal a buy, and can carry on with the positive move further ahead. With the chart technically looking good, we suggest buying the stock . 7. Syngene International Ltd.-Koothupalakkal recommends buying SYNGENE at around 690 for a target price of 730, keeping the stop loss 675. The stock has witnessed a decent pullback from the 620 zone, moving past the important 50EMA zone at the 650 level, gaining strength, and a further rise can be anticipated. The RSI is on the rise and has indicated strength to gain further, and with the chart technically looking good, we suggest buying the stock for an upside target of 730, keeping the stop loss at the 675 level. On Monday, Nifty 50 declined 0.63% pressured by continued weakness in banking, financial, IT, and energy stocks amid lackluster corporate earnings. Persistent foreign institutional selling, driven by valuation concerns, further weighed on the index. Additionally, global uncertainty surrounding the India-US trade negotiations and the absence of fresh domestic triggers contributed to subdued investor sentiment. With muted earnings momentum and caution prevailing across sectors, the market remained under pressure throughout the session, reflecting a broadly negative undertone. MarketSmith Indias Best stock recommendations for today Buy: Cipla Ltd (current price: 1,572) Why Cipla is recommended: Strong presence in chronic and acute therapy segments, robust US and India business with healthy margin profile, and steady R&D investments in complex generics and respiratory products. Key metrics P/E: 23.53 52-week high: 1,702.05 Volume: 599 crore Technical analysis : Reclaimed its 200-DMA on above average volume : Reclaimed its 200-DMA on above average volume Risk factors : Regulatory and compliance risk, pricing pressure in the US generics market, and dependency on select products and geographies : Regulatory and compliance risk, pricing pressure in the US generics market, and dependency on select products and geographies Buy : 1,550 : 1,550 Target price : 1,700 in 2-3 months : 1,700 in 2-3 months Stop loss: 1,460 Buy: Vijaya Diagnostic Centre Ltd (current price: 1,141.35) Why Vijaya Diagnostic Centre is recommended: Strong volume led revenue growth, geographic and network expansion, strong capital efficiency (ROCE and ROE). Key metrics P/E: 81.36 52-week high: 1,275 Volume: 281 crore Technical analysis : 200-DMA bounce, trending above all its key moving averages : 200-DMA bounce, trending above all its key moving averages Risk factors : High valuation premium, flat long-term growth, working capital stress, promoters dilution of equity. : High valuation premium, flat long-term growth, working capital stress, promoters dilution of equity. Buy at : 1,120 : 1,120 Target price : 1,415 in 2-3 months : 1,415 in 2-3 months Stop loss: 999 Nifty 50: How the benchmark index performed on 28 July On Monday, the Nifty 50 opened on a weak note with a gap-down opening and remained under pressure throughout the session, forming a "lower-high and lower-low" price structure on the daily chart, indicating a sign of continued bearish momentum. Barring Pharma and FMCG, all major sectoral indices, including broader market segments, traded in the red. The volatility index, India VIX, spiked 7% on the third consecutive day, reflecting rising uncertainty. Market breadth was distinctly negative, with the advance-decline ratio skewed toward decliners at approximately 1:3. From a technical standpoint, the index is trading 1.48% below its 50-DMA, reflecting a clear negative bias. The relative strength index (RSI) continues to decline and has slipped below 37, signaling weakening momentum and a prevailing bearish trend. Additionally, the MACD has maintained its negative crossover and has now moved below the central line, further confirming the downside momentum. This overall setup indicates continued selling pressure and the potential for further weakness in the coming days. According to O'Neils methodology of market direction, the market status has been downgraded to an "Uptrend Under Pressure" as Nifty breached its "50-DMA" and the "distribution day count" rising to five. Nifty 50 remained volatile with a negative bias on Monday, ending the session in the red. The overall trend and market sentiment are likely to stay weak as long as the index continues to trade below its 50-DMA. A sustained move below this level could trigger further downside, potentially dragging the index toward 24,200-24,000 in the near term. On the upside, strong resistance is seen at 25,000, followed by 25,300. How did Nifty Bank perform yesterday? On Monday, this major sectoral index opened on a weak note and extended its downward move amid a volatile trading session, forming a bearish candlestick with a lower-high and lower-low" price structure on the daily chart. Both private and PSU banks remained under pressure and ended in negative territory. Kotak Mahindra Bank was the top laggard, while ICICI Bank bucked the trend and closed marginally in the green. The FINNIFTY index also traded with a negative bias, slipping 0.72% and forming another bearish candle on the daily chart. Technically, Bank Nifty breached its 50-DMA and closed below it on Monday, indicating a shift in short-term trend momentum. The relative strength index (RSI) is trending downward and is currently positioned around 45, reflecting weakening strength. Additionally, the MACD has maintained a negative crossover and is trending below the signal line, further confirming bearish sentiment. This technical setup suggests continued pressure on the index unless a strong reversal emerges in the near term. According to ONeils methodology of market direction, Bank Nifty remains in a 'Confirmed Uptrend, a status it has successfully maintained over the past few weeks. Nifty Bank found support near 56,000 and managed to close just above it. Going forward, 56,000 remains a crucial support level, and a decisive break below this zone could trigger further downside toward 55,20055,000 in the coming sessions. On the upside, immediate resistance is seen around 56,400, and a sustained move above this level will be essential to halt further weakness and stabilize the trend. MarketSmith India is a stock research platform and advisory service focused on the Indian stock market. Trade name: William O'Neil India Pvt. Ltd. (Sebi Registered Research Analyst Registration No.: INH000015543) Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing. Registration granted by Sebi and certification from NISM in no way guarantees performance of the intermediary or provide any assurance of returns to investors. Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions. Stocks to buy under 100: The key benchmark indices of the Indian stock market ended Monday's session on a weak note amid intensified sales pressure, driven by persistent FII outflows and negative cues from Asian peers. The Nifty 50 index opened flat and remained range-bound with heightened intraday volatility during the first half. However, intensified selling in the latter half of the session dragged the 50-stock index sharply lower, culminating in a close near the intraday low at 24,680.90, marking a decline of 156.10 points or 0.63%. The bearish sentiment remained intact on the broader market front, as both the Nifty Midcap 100 and Nifty Smallcap 100 indices extended their losing streak, ending lower by 0.84% and 1.26%, respectively, reflecting sustained risk aversion across market capitalisations. Sectorally, the market breadth was broadly negative, with the pharma index being the sole outperformer in an otherwise weak landscape. Realty stocks bore the brunt, nosediving 4%, followed by the media pack, which corrected 2.7%. Capital goods, metals, telecom, PSU banks, and private banking counters witnessed broad-based pressure, slipping between 1% and 1.5%. Stock market today Speaking on the outlook of the Nifty 50 today, Nagaraj Shetti, Senior Technical Research Analyst at HDFC Securities, said, "The underlying trend of the Nifty 50 index remains weak, and one may expect some more declines in the coming sessions. The next crucial lower support is around 24,500. Immediate resistance is placed at 24,800." On the outlook of the Bank Nifty today, Shiju Kuthupalakkal, Senior Manager of Technical Research at Prabhudas Lilladher, said, "The Bank Nifty, amid some volatile sessions in the first half, further lost steam and slipped down to arrive near the important support zone at the 56,000 level, with bias and sentiment getting into a cautious mode. The index would need to sustain the crucial support zone near the 50-DEMA level at the 56,000 zone, and a revival shall once again bring hopes for further upward move. In contrast, a decisive breach shall weaken the trend and can trigger fresh downward movement with the next major support positioned near the 54,400 zone," said Parekh. Sumeet Bagadia's intraday stock picks for today 1] McLeod Russel India: Buy at 40.78, Target 44, Stop Loss 39; and 2] Centrum Capital: Buy at 38.36, Target 41.50, Stop Loss 37. Vaishali Parekh's stock recommendations today 3] GMR Airports: Buy at 89.70, Target 95, Stop Loss 88. Sugandha Sachdeva's stock to buy under 100 4] Geojit Financial Services: Buy at 72.20, Target 74.50, Stop Loss 70.80. Anshul Jain's share to buy under 100 5] SPIC: Buy at 97.50, Target 105, Stop Loss 95. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that the US and China will continue talks over maintaining a tariff truce before it expires in two weeks and that President Donald Trump will make the final call on any extension. Bessent, who led the US delegation with Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, said in Stockholm that hell brief Trump on Wednesday on the remaining issues. Theres still a couple of technical details to work out, Bessent told reporters Tuesday, after two days of meetings with officials from Beijing led by Vice Premier He Lifeng. On the heels of Washingtons preliminary tariff deals with Japan and the European Union, Bessent said his Chinese counterparts were more of a mood for a wide-ranging discussion. The third round of US-China trade talks in less than three months wrapped up ahead of an Aug. 12 deadline to resolve differences during a 90-day suspension of sky-high tariffs that threatened to cut off bilateral trade between the worlds largest economies. Adding an extra 90 days is one option, Bessent said. Chinese trade negotiator Li Chenggang told reporters that both sides agree on maintaining the truce, without elaborating on how long. He added that the conversations in the Swedish capital were candid, in-depth and geared for continued close communication. Magnet Talks At issue in the ongoing dialog is how the two countries seek to maintain a stable trading relationship while applying barriers like tariffs and export controls to limit each others progress in critical sectors ranging from battery technology and defense to semiconductors. Greer said the US wants assurances that critical materials like magnets keep flowing so the two sides can focus on other priorities. We dont ever want to talk about magnets again, he said. Greer said the resumption of Chinas rare earths exports is Beijings biggest concession so far. Asked if the US made any commitments to China on its pending 232 investigations, Greer said China asked for status updates on them, but stressed that the eventual duties would be applied globally and not have any exemptions for particular countries. He also said China asked about the Trump administrations so-called 232 investigations into sectors such as copper, semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, and the US explained that those involve global tariffs with no exceptions for individual countries. Reducing the 20% tariffs that Trump imposed over US claims that Chinese companies supply chemicals used to make the illegal drug fentanyl is also a high priority for Beijing, Eurasia Group analysts wrote in a note last week. The sticking points in the relationship extend beyond cross-border commerce. Earlier, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te appeared to call off an overseas trip planned for next week after the Trump administration failed to approve his stopover in the US. Trade tensions have risen recently as both sides try to apply industrial leverage. China has recently exerted its dominance in rare earth minerals for concessions from the US on advanced chips needed for Beijings ambitions in artificial intelligence. No Interest! That softening from US President Donald Trump has worried China hawks in Washington that the administration is giving up too much by easing export controls to strike a deal and hold a summit with President Xi Jinping. The US president late Monday in Scotland pushed back at such suggestion, posting on social media that hes not pushing for a summit with Xi. I am not SEEKING anything! I may go to China, but it would only be at the invitation of President Xi, which has been extended. Otherwise, no interest! Trump wrote. In the background of the latest trade talks between Washington and Beijing is the race by several economies to sign tariff deals with Trump before Aug. 1, when hes threatening to impose so-called reciprocal import taxes on the USs major trading partners. On Sunday, he announced a preliminary deal with the European Union to apply 15% tariffs on EU goods shipped to the US. Speaking Tuesday on CNBC, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick cast many of the issues surrounding the US-EU trade pact as still up for discussion, saying there was plenty of horse trading left to do. With assistance from Jonas Ekblom, Oliver Crook and Lydia Lothman. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. A trade deal between India and the US remains elusive, despite repeated claims from both sides in recent months that an agreement was within reach. The US, over the last few days, has signed trade deals with several major economies, including Japan and the European Union (EU). The US and China had a tariff and export control agreement in May with an August 12 deadline, which, according to experts, may be extended. On the other hand, there has been no major breakthrough on the trade deal front between the US and India at least none that has been made public. According to reports, Trump hinted on July 29 that India could face 20-25 per cent tariffs as a deal between the two countries appears unlikely to be finalised by August 1. Why is an India-US trade deal delayed? Hopes were high that a trade deal between India and the US could be finalised before July 9, an earlier deadline set by US President Donald Trump for the tariffs to take effect. However, despite several rounds of talks and reports suggesting that President Trump was expected to make a final decision on the potential deal, no agreement materialised. A key point of contention has been the US's insistence on greater access to Indian markets for its agricultural, dairy, and genetically modified (GM) products. However, India has argued that such access could negatively impact the livelihoods of its farmers. "The US wants more access to Indias agriculture market, particularly dairy products. India cannot and is unwilling to negotiate on this. Animal farming in India is a source of livelihood for millions, not a large-scale industry like in the Western world," VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Investments, noted. Moreover, reports suggest that India is seeking lower tariff rates to gain a competitive edge over its Asian peers. Another possible reason for the delay in finalising the trade deal is the US's stance against countries importing oil from Russia. Last week, US Senator Lindsey Graham issued a stark warning that President Trump intends to impose steep tariffs on countries continuing to import oil from Russia. Can there be a deal? Experts still remain optimistic that India and the US will reach an agreement, even though it may take time and may even go beyond the August 1 deadline. After August 1, tariffs on Indian imports to the US will increase to 26 per cent. Both countries may first finalise a basic trade deal, while talks for a more comprehensive agreement could continue until October or November. News agency PTI reported on Tuesday, 29 July, that representatives from the US are set to visit India on 25 August 2025 for the next round of trade negotiations. Experts believe that a deal is important not only for India but also for the US because of geopolitical compulsions. "We believe that signing a trade deal amicably with India is equally important for the US for geopolitical compulsions. Therefore, we still hope that India would avoid any major risk on this front," G Chokkalingam, the founder and head of research at Equinomics Research Private Limited, observed. How can a further delay in the India-US trade deal impact the Indian stock market? A further delay may keep the market under pressure due to elevated concerns about the country's widening trade deficit, potentially triggering ripple effects on the economy and the Indian rupee. On the other hand, a trade deal could serve as a short-term catalyst for the domestic market and may help it break out of the range it has been trading in for nearly two months. "If India signs a deal with the US and averts the 26 per cent reciprocal duties, then the market is likely to recover significantly. In case reciprocal duty is imposed, then the market is likely to remain weak in the short-term," said Chokkalingam. A trade deal between the two countries may also attract FPIs who have been on a selling spree of Indian equities this month. "Over the medium term, this could encourage increased FPI inflows into sectors like manufacturing, technology, and healthcare, particularly if supported by supply chain diversification and the ongoing 'China+1' strategy. Such a deal would also signal long-term economic stability and global integration, key factors for long-duration foreign investors," Aditya Sood, a fund manager at InCred Asset Management, told Mint. However, in the long term, the market will look for durable economic growth and a sustainable recovery in earnings to justify the elevated valuations. Read all market-related news here Read more stories by Nishant Kumar Marriages are made in heaven, but can unravel on earth due to financial friction. Money anxiety stems from insecurity, resulting in uncertainty, which breeds fights among couples. But it need not be that way. There are many things a couple can do to ensure that money matters do not contribute to marital discord. Managing investments and expenses In cases where both husband and wife are working, usually one person spends, while the other invests. In this case, all investments will be made by that person only, which can create discord. In unfortunate situations where the couple decides to part ways, this skewed investment pattern becomes a bone of contention. The person who has invested can claim the money invested, which is completely unjust to the other person. The best way to tackle this is to spend and invest in the same proportion as the income. Let us illustrate this with an example. If A is earning 1 lakh and the spouse is earning 50,000 and their spending is 50,000 (which is one-third of the total income), A should shoulder two-third of the expenses, and the spouse one-third. The rest should be invested with the other spouse being a joint investment holder or nominee. This will be a fair arrangement. While spending, there can either be a clear bifurcation of what each spouse will spend on, or there can be a joint account into which the expense amount is transferred and is spent from that account only. Also Read: Best of both worlds: How couples can plan taxes to make the most of old and new regimes Money fidelity It is best for couples to be honest about money matters right from the start. It is imperative to discuss spending that may be contentious if not disclosed. For instance, any monetary assistance to parents/ relatives/ friends and the extent of it should be clearly discussed, as concealing this can cause friction and rifts. Ideally, there should be no secrets. If there are spending, the other person may not approve of, it is best to agree to have a black box" discretionary spending amount, which the spouse will not question. This is a halfway house where the spouse does not know the exact nature of the spending but knows that it is limited to a certain amount, which would be a relief. While there can be misgivings about such non-disclosed expenses, it is way better than when it is a secret and not disclosed. Many times, such expenses can be indulgences like pubbing, partying with friends, helping friends and family, philanthropy etc., and not necessarily something sinister! Money chat before marriage It is important to align on money-related matters before a couple ties the knot. It is good to know the assets, liabilities, earnings, spending habits, etc., to know where each one stands. Then they can discuss when and what goals they would have and how they will achieve the goals. They may also decide on any family assistance, discretionary spending, investments, probable expenses, etc. A level of understanding of financial matters will lay the ground for a smooth life ahead. Also Read: Four questions retired couples should ask themselves about their financestoday Expectation management in families It would be a good idea to clearly delineate where the family will spend, invest etc. Important goals should be discussed in the context of the family finances. Discussing finances is not done enough in many households, with the result that family members are in the dark regarding the real financial position. If the family members are aware of the true financial position, they will be willing to adjust their spending and expectations on that basis. Even the decisions on goals like childrens education, home/ vehicle purchase, etc. will turn out to be more realistic and manageable if the family members are aware of the correct position. Also Read: Mint Money | Should married couples merge finances or keep them separate? Money to the non-earning spouse Just like a salary, an appropriate amount should be made available every month to a homemaker. This takes away the awkwardness of asking for money for her personal and discretionary expenses. This simple act can be liberating and can greatly contribute to amity in the family. Beyond that, it is good to anticipate and fulfil the family's wishes, within the bounds of prudential money management. Ordering a treat at home or taking them out to a movie once in a while will signal that being prudent with money can serve up pleasant surprises as well! Finances are an important part of life. Getting that right, having the right expectations about money and also from each other regarding money, is the foundation on which a good marriage rests. If the finances are on a solid foundation, the union is that much stronger! The author is the MD and principal officer at Ladder7 Wealth Planners and the author of If God Was Your Financial Planner. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has flagged 51 safety lapses at Air India in its July audit which includes poor rostering, training gaps for pilots and use of unapproved simulators adding growing scrutiny of the Tata Group-owned airline after the Ahmedabad-London Air India plane crash that killed 260 people seconds after take-off. Air India is already under pressure, having received warning notices for operating flights without checking emergency equipment, failing to replace engine parts on time, falsifying maintenance records, and neglecting crew fatigue protocols. WHAT DOES THE AUDIT REPORT SAY? According to Reuters, the 11-page audit report of Air India noted seven breaches of Level 1 which need to be fixed by July 30. The other 44 breaches would need to be fixed by August 23. Officials said some unspecified Boeing 787 and 777 pilots had not completed their trainings and monitoring duties ahead of the mandatory periodic evaluations. Air India also did not do proper route assessments for some so-called Category C airports - which may have challenging layouts or terrain - and conducted training for such airfields with simulators that did not meet qualification standards. "This may account to non-consideration of safety risks during approaches to challenging airports," the DGCA audit report said. Meanwhile, Air India has said that it was fully transparent and will submit our response to the regulator within the stipulated time frame, along with the details of the corrective actions. The audit report has come days after a preliminary report on the Air India plane crash found that fuel control switches were flipped to cut off seconds after take-off. The interim report also pointed at confusion among the pilots. Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and former MP Amar Patnaik has condemned the "egregious" act of selling doormats featuring the sacred image of Lord Jagannath by popular Chinese-owned global e-commerce site AliExpress. The online store is also receiving massive backlash on social media from Indian users. Thousands of X users have backed the call for an apology and urged the online retailer to take the listing down immediately. The BJD leader called the act "shameless" and wrote: I vehemently condemn the egregious act of selling doormats with the sacred image of Lord Jagannath on AliExpress! This shameless profanity is an affront to the deepest sentiments of millions of devotees, trampling upon the revered iconography with utter disregard. It's a desecration of the highest order, and those responsible must be held accountable. The fact that Lord Jagannath's image is being used as a mere commodity is a stark reminder of the blatant disrespect towards Hinduism. Immediate action is imperative to rectify this egregious wrongdoing and restore dignity to the revered deity. Outrage Sparked by Viral Image The religious row erupted after a purported image circulated on social media showing the sacred image of Lord Jagannath, a revered Hindu deity worshipped primarily in Odisha and parts of eastern India. The product description reads: "Lord Jagannath Mandala Art Mat Doorway Non-Slip Soft Water Uptake Carpet Krishna Jaganath Hindu Go..." and the price of the doormat is 787.65. There are two images: the left image shows a close-up of the mat featuring Lord Jagannath's face, while the right image shows a person standing barefoot on the mat, directly on the deity's face. The product description, referring to it as "moisture absorbent" and "anti-slip," has further fueled the outrage, with devotees condemning it as a clear display of religious insensitivity. Since the listing gained widespread attention, devotees on social media have strongly condemned the product, demanding its immediate removal along with an apology from both the seller and the platform. Hashtags such as #RespectJagannath and #BoycottAliExpress have been trending across India, intensifying calls for accountability. The episode is reminiscent of an incident in 2020, when Amazon.com Inc. had to take down listings of products such as briefs and doormats with Hindu sacred symbols that were being sold on its overseas websites, following a social media uproar in India. #BoycottAmazon was one of the top trending topics on Twitter in India at the time, with users sharing screenshots of Amazon listings for doormats and underwear emblazoned with insignia including the elephant god Ganesha and other symbols considered sacred in Hinduism. We are taking down the products in question, Amazon had said in a statement. All sellers must follow our selling guidelines, and those who do not will be subject to action, including potential removal of their account. Company Responds In a statement, a spokesperson for the online marketplace confirmed that the item in question was taken down after screening and verification by the platforms internal teams. "As a marketplace that facilitates transactions between shoppers and sellers, we are taking proactive measures to monitor and endeavor to prevent sellers from listing such items again," the spokesperson said. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday informed the Lok Sabha that there was enough proof that the three terrorists slain in Operation Mahadev were from Pakistan, adding that even chocolates found with them were made in Islamabad. Slamming the Opposition, Shah said that the Union government has Pakistan's voter list. We have confirmed the terrorists Pakistani links. We have Pakistans voter list. What will you get by saving Pakistan? Who are you trying to save? The Union Home Minister reiterated that the three terrorists were Pakistanis. I want to tell him we have the proof that all three terrorists were from Pakistan. All their rifles, and even the chocolates we found, were made in Pakistan, he said. Lashkar-e-Taiba top commander Suleman, involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, was among the three terrorists killed by security forces during the recent Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir, Shah told the Parliament. Lashing out further at the Opposition, Amit Shah asked the Congress what it did when terrorists attacked India while the party was in power. Yes, it is our responsibility, but when you (Congress) were in power, a lot of attacks happened who will take responsibility for that? He accused the Opposition of shielding Pakistan What hurt us was former Home Minister P Chidambaram questioning the Pakistani link of the terrorists. Why are you shielding Pakistan, he asked. Indias ex-home minister is asking for proof. They could have directly asked me, or the media. It was everywhere you all will not be spared, he added. Amit Shah reveals details of Operation Mahadev Revealing the details of Operation Mahadev, where three terrorists linked to the Pahalgam terror attack were killed by the Indian Army, the Union Home Minister said all of them were A-grade terrorists. In Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal, Afghan and Jibran these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police, Shah said. Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist. All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated, he added. Also Read | Pahalgam terror attack mastermind Suleiman Shah killed in Srinagar encounter Also Read | PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah to address Lok Sabha today The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier and the three terrorists were neutralised yesterday, Shah said. The anti-terror exercise Operation Mahadev took place in the general area of Lidwas, Chinar Corps of Indian Army said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who addressed the Lok Sabha on the debate on Operation Sindoor, informed that during the targeted attack on Pakistan in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, Armed Forced were given a free hand and they were told to decide when to attack, where to attack and how to attack. PM Modi said he was travelling abroad and returned immediately when he was informed about the Pahalgam terror attack. And immediately after coming back, I called a meeting and we gave clear instructions that a befitting reply has to be given to terrorism and this is our national resolve, he said. Armed Forces were given a free hand. They were told to decide the when, where and how...We are proud that terrorists were punished, and it was such a punishment that the terrorist masterminds have sleepless nights even to this day, PM Modi said to the thumping of the benches. Faith-tech startup Astrotalk is looking at launching a new line of businesses that will focus on devotion, its founder said, amid rising demand for online and home-based religious rituals. We are looking to invest 50-100 crore behind this new subsidiary that is focusing on helping people do pooja online or at their home," founder Puneet Gupta said in an interview. Astrotalk, which offers online astrology advise, is gearing up for an initial public offering (IPO) in calendar year 2027. The company already claims to earn 6 crore in monthly revenue from online poojas, driven by word-of-mouth recommendations by its partner astrologer chiefly pundits in temples. Customers will be given the choice to perform an online ritual - a puja for instance - at home or in a temple. Also Read | Woman calls out AstroTalk after false wedding prophecy The decision to create a subsidiary for devotion is based on differentiation for the Indian customer. We've not seen success in Indian businesses that do 10 different things. Indians need a different brand name, but we'll make sure that it says Powered by Astrotalk, so it gives users the trust that they associate with our brand," Gupta said. Astrotalk has no fixed timeline on when the devotion business will go live, but has begun the hiring process for the leadership team. While one person is being moved internally, two others have been offered roles for the devotion business. The company expects the team to be finalized by September. Leadership is first, product is second because once we start talking to people we'll realise what they want. I can say 10 things now, but it could make no sense if the customer isn't sure," Gupta said. We already have 700 crore in the bank and we're currently fundraising $50 million (around 434 crore). The company will have enough money down the line to take these calls." The main focus for the new business is to tie up with large well-known temples and offer customers the chance to offer prayers to deities there, instead of the ones at their homes or those provided by their astrologers. We want to be able to have different temples which specialize in different things so customers have options," said Gupta. Astrotalk wants to market places of worship as well, directing people to certain temples based on where they'd like to make donations or offer prayers. We will create the entire ecosystem for a temple in that whatever is associated with it, we will do that for the consumer," said Gupta. We're looking to on-board as many temples as we can." Eventually, the company hopes that it will also be able to set up live streams within temples to allow consumers to interact without having to be there in-person. Astrotalk's revenue more than doubled to 651 crore in FY24 from 283 crore in FY23. Profits too increased, over 12 times to hit 100 crore in FY24, up from 8 crore in FY23, according to data from Tofler. While the company's FY25 number's haven't been disclosed yet, Gupta said that Astrotalk's annual revenue currently stands at 1,650 crore. It is targeting an ARR of 2,000 crore by the end of FY26. Astrotalk's pitch is ambitious, given that there are thousands of temples across India attracting millions of devotees. In 2024 alone, over three million people visited the Badrinath and Kedarnath Dhams, according to an official statement from the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee. Earlier this year, the Maha Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj was estimated to have spawned $30 billion of financial transactions, according to Sprout Research. The first day alone dwarfed the number of people visiting the Badrinath and Kedarnath Dhams, coming in at six million. Also Read | Astrology is booming, thanks to technology and younger enthusiasts Fundraising to set benchmarks Currently, the company is in the process of raising $50 million at a unicorn valuation, where a startup is valued at over $1 billion. We're bringing in public market investors in this round who would be able to help anchor an IPO," said Gupta, clarifying that the company isn't calling the latest fundraise a pre-IPO round. Astrotalk plans to file for an IPO early in the calendar year 2027. Should the company list successfully, it'll be the first in the faith-tech space to do so. Faith-tech startups are gaining momentum in India, with funding into these digital platforms surging from $4.3 million in 2023 to $50.7 million in 2024, according to market intelligence platform Tracxn. The company's closest competitor is AppsForBharat, which has raised $20 million in a Series C round led by Susquehanna Asia Venture Capital with participation from Nandan Nilekanis Fundamentum, Elevation Capital, and Peak XV Partners. AppsForBharat is currently valued at $175 million. The ongoing fund-raise is a mix of primary and secondary rounds, with new investors joining the cap table. However, Astrotalk declined to name the new investors. In fact, the company said that its early investors aren't willing to dilute too much of their equity in the new round. No one wants to fully exit and I've made it clear that I won't be diluting my shares alone, everyone will have to do a little bit," Gupta said. Astrotalk is currently backed by Elev8 Venture Partners, New York-based Left Lane Capital and QED Innovation Labs. Overall, the company has raised a total of $30 million so far, and its last funding round in 2024 took its valuation to $300 million. The latest fundraise will take its valuation to over 3x of its current value. We don't really need the money right now, we're doing it to benchmark the valuation and bring good people on board," according to Gupta. New Delhi: India's edtech firms as well as traditional coaching centres may have some serious competition coming from the unstoppable rise of artificial intelligence, as Big Tech pushes to showcase AI as a formidable study assistant for students preparing for coveted jobs and top engineering colleges. OpenAI, the worlds most prominent artificial intelligence startup, on Tuesday launched a study mode on its ubiquitous generative AI chatbot, ChatGPT. With a focus on competitive examinations including Indias most popular ones such as engineering and medical entrance tests, the company agreed that ChatGPTs study mode will likely overlap with Indias education-tech startupsthereby giving it access to a large, potentially monetizable base of students in the country. Leah Belsky, vice president of education at OpenAI, said the company has used some" questionnaires and study materials of competitive examinations such as the engineering entrance tests for the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) as part of preparing the student-centric study mode. We also tested study mode on top core-curriculum examinations such as for Indias IITs, as well as other examinations across India, to assess its performance," Belsky said. Also Read | Yashoda AI: Artificial Intelligence literacy campaign for women explained While OpenAI did not offer any specific benchmark or ranking figures for the study mode in reference to Indias education ecosystemexcept that the mode performs very, very well", Belsky added that the goal for the student-specific mode was to create a general-purpose study assistant that works irrespective of universities and courses." We also collaborated with leading researchers and institutes across India while creating study mode, and well be sharing the results of these evaluations soon," she said. Kashyap Kompella, veteran AI analyst, trainer and founder of consultancy firm RPA2AI Research, said the study mode will have to handle India's language divide, but the one key problem it can solve is India's lack of trained teachers at scale even at the last mile". Edtech startups digitized education about a decade ago, but per-student personalization remained out of their ambit. Modes like this on ChatGPT can accurately personalize education for students at scale, but concerns will remain on the possibility of misuse of these tools. The key trick will be too train and enable teachers to make the most of such AI toolsa 'teach mode', perhaps," he added. Also Read | Tech evolution: Did Apple blink or think different in the race for AI Ed-tech firms specializing in test preparation for competitive examinations are likely to see increased competition as more AI companies launch similar assistants. 37-year-old test-prep firm Allen Career Institute, for instance, offers a similar preparation assistant Allie through a proprietary software platform. Still, it won't be a cakewalk for AI tools to replace human interface, which is immensely valued in a country like India, some experts said. Its unlikely that such AI tools will take away substantial business from Indias education specialists, since their prowess lies in offering human oversight toward a students career preparation. Parents, especially from Indias middle-class, are unlikely to have students readily bank on ChatGPT to prepare for IITs. It can be an also-there option, but is unlikely to take over the market," a senior industry executive close to a top test-prep firm told Mint, requesting anonymity since they had not used ChatGPTs study mode as yet. Study mode can be accessed even on ChatGPTs free tier, but will come with usage restrictions such as long response times in peak usage hours, and limited memory of conversations. But, for now, the company does not plan to introduce a student-specific pricing model. ChatGPTs base subscription tier, Plus, costs 1,999 ($23) per month in India. Also Read | AI vs Humans: Artificial intelligence influencers outperform originals To be sure, OpenAI also has an education-specific ChatGPT Edu for universities to adoptwhich would give its students access to the platform for free, but at a group pricing for the institution itself. Study mode is separate from this. OpenAI's announcement comes as Big Tech firms in Silicon Valley are on a lookout for ways to get consumers accustomed to AI. In May this year, Google launched a video-centric foundational AI model, Veo 3, designed to let any user create videos with text prompts. Plans for the service are priced onward of 1,950 ($22) per month in India. Microsoft, meanwhile, is integrating its OpenAI-backed Copilot into all new Windows-powered laptopsalso priced at 2,000 per month for a single person. Jibu Elias, responsible computing lead for India at Mozilla Foundation, added that it is to the best interests of Big Tech and the makers of AI to have more students and people in general becoming used to their AI ecosystems right from an early stage." This, Elias added, could be a key factor for companies seeking ways to rope in users into their AI ecosystems at an early stagemuch like the consumer technology battle among companies through the first 15 years of 2000s. For Indias fledgling space startups, offering data analytics to clients across sectors is turning into a viable revenue stream as the industry grows out of the early phase of proving its technical and product competence. Bengaluru-born Pixxel uses its hyperspectral or high-resolution imaging satellites to supply earth observation data to clients,according to media reports. Its same-city peer Digantara, which also has one satellite in orbit, offers processed data to fellow satellite operators to help them map the earth's lower orbit, and manoeuvre satellites better to avoid debris and incidental collision, Mint previously reported. Fellow startup GalaxEye is, too, building its first imaging satellite and placing it in orbit later this year. Suyash Singh, GalaxEyes chief executive, told Mint that in the long run, the company expects its satellite capability to help gain clients who would purchase high-resolution, low-latency data to circumvent cloud covers and challenging terrain. The race for satellite data marks the coming of age of Indias space startups since the sector was significantly opened up to private players five years ago. The ecosystem has gradually matured, with satellite firms transitioning to commercial models. India's space economy is projected to generate $44 billion in annual revenue by 2033, according to estimates by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (In-Space). Earth observation and data-related services could account for nearly 40% of it. Such a scale would come from customers who repeatedly purchase satellite data, according to Devroop Dhar, managing director and cofounder of management consulting firm Primus Partners. He cited examples of subscription access for change detection in crops, alerts for maritime anomalies, risk scoring for insurers and more. It is less about owning a piece of space and more about embedding space into day-to-day business decisions." The question is no longer what you captured, but how it helps someone make a decision," said Dhar, suggesting that monetization has changed from earlier when it was centred around payloads, launch contracts or tech demonstrators, mostly to government clients or for niche commercial engagements. Queries sent to Pixxel and Digantara did not immediately elicit a response. Digantara's chief executive officer Anirudh Sharma told Mint previously that the company is setting up an assembly line in response to rising demand from governments worldwide over the past six months, as more of them look to build their own space defence and surveillance systems and seek direct access to satellite data. Technological advances and a shift in strategic focus are propelling this transition. As satellite hardware shrinks and onboard processing becomes more advanced, space startups are no longer just focused on being satellite manufacturers or simply supplying raw data to vendors. They call it an "orbit to insight loop" to supply large volumes of processed data at low latencies as their core business model. Launch service providers, too, see data driving demand. Agnikul Cosmos and Skyroot Aerospace have completed solitary sub-orbital demonstrator missionsthese do not enter the earths orbit and serve as proof of technology only. The startups are in talks with data-focused clients such as agri-tech companies, fleet monitoring players and analytics firms. Our plan is to scale to a launch every two weeks," said Srinath Ravichandran, cofounder, Agnikul Cosmos. Even at 50 launches a year, I'm barely at 10% of the market demand. Our order pipeline already indicates clear dominance of satellite payloads increasing due to the demand for dataabout 35-40% are imaging satellites." Ravichandran said the demand for data is coming "from hedge funds trying to predict urbanization, land utilization and betting on real estate, to city corporations using high-resolution imagery to track urban trends". Naga Bharath Daka, cofounder of Skyroot Aerospace, said that satellite manufacturers striking early deals with the firm for putting GPUs in satellites to process data in orbit. Many are downlinking only insights, not raw images." Many large firms across end-user applications are now investing in having their own satellites to gain direct insight," he said. As more operational players enter the market, booking a launch could soon become as simple as booking a cab at short notice." Earlier this month, Mint reported the rise of space-based surveillance as a major business stream for Indian space firms, with clients willing to pay up to $100 per square kilometre per week from a single satellite and providing scope for multi-million-dollar satellite data contracts on an annualized basis. However, to reap all the benefits, these startups will have to invest heavily early on to put multiple satellites in orbitwithout which uninterrupted satellite data is difficult to procure. There can be no substitute for in-orbit satellites," said Sreeram Ananthasayanam, partner at consulting firm Deloitte India. You need a certain number of satellites to improve latency. In other words, demand and capital are akin to the perennial chicken and egg problem, plaguing several deep technology sectors." The Delhi High Court on Tuesday upheld activist Medha Patkar's conviction in a defamation case filed by Delhi LG V K Saxena. Justice Shalinder Kaur ruled that the trial courts decision, which Patkar had challenged, showed no signs of legal error and did not warrant any intervention. Also Read | Medha Patkar arrested in defamation case after Delhi Court issued NBW LG Saxena had filed the case 23 years ago when he was heading an NGO in Gujarat. What the Delhi High Court said The Delhi High Court noted that the order by the trial court required no interference. "Upon perusal this court finds no illegality in the order (by trial court) and requires no interference, and accordingly dismissed," Justice Kaur said, during the case hearing. What was the case against Medha Patkar Medha Patkar was convicted and sentenced in a defamation case filed by the incumbent LG, VK Saxena, in 2001. She was arrested pursuant to a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against her for non-compliance with the court's order. The Delhi High Court, as interim relief, had directed her release on bail. However, the appellate court had sentenced her and directed her release on probation for good conduct for one year and payment of compensation of 1 lakh to Saxena. This order was challenged before the High Court by her. What led to the case? In 2000, LG Saxena, the then President of an organisation called National Council of Civil Liberties, had published an advertisement against Medha Patkar's Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) the movement that opposed the construction of dams over Narmada river. The advertisement was titled True face of Ms. Medha Patkar and her Narmada Bachao Andolan. Following the publication of the advertisement, Patkar issued a press notice against Saxena. Also Read | No jail for activist Medha Patkar in LG VK Saxena defamation case: Delhi Court The press statement titled True Facts of a Patriot Response to an Advertisement, alleged Saxena of previously supporting the NBA. The note claimed he had once visited Malegaon, praised the movement, and donated 40,000 via cheque from the Lalbhai Group to Lok Samiti for NBAs cause which reportedly bounced. "The cheque, please note, came from Lalbhai Group. What is the connection between Lalbhai Group and VK Saxena? Who among them is more Patriot" the press note said, reported Bar and Bench. Also Read | Court upholds conviction of Medha Patkar in Vinai Kumar Saxena defamation case BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, on Tuesday, refused to speak in English, rejecting Tamil Nadu MPs request in Lok Sabha amid a glitch in translating system. He further claimed that the MPs only had a problem with Hindi. The BJP MP made the comments in the Lok Sabha after after Tamil Nadu MPs requested Nishikant Dubey to speak in English following a a technical glitch in the translator (system) in the Lok Sabha. Responding to them, Dubey said "...It would have been better if you had asked me to speak in Tamil or Bengali. English is a foreign language, and your insistence on it reflects your mindset. Someone spoke in Bengali for half an hour, yet Tamil Nadu MPs didnt object. You only have a problem with Hindi. Congress and its allies dont like North Indians or Hindi. If you keep promoting English, well end up becoming England. 'Hum phir se gulaam ho jayenge' (We will become slaves again)..." During the Monsoon Session of the Parliament on Tuesday, several leaders launched scathing attacks on the government about India's Operation Sindoor in the aftermath of the brutal Pahalgam terror attack in April that killed 26 people. Operation Sindoor debate in Parliament Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said the launch of Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam attack was a "symbol of the government's intelligence failure". Also Read | PM Modi, Amit Shah likely to speak in Lok Sabha tomorrow Uttar Pradesh's former chief minister also said that India's foreign policy has completely collapsed, while labelling China as a monster that will "gobble up our (India's) land and market". "Who will take responsibility for the intelligence lapse in the Pahalgam attack? Akhilesh Yadav said about the tragedy. Say Trump is a liar Rahul Gandhi also took a swipe at the government, daring PM Modi to call Trump a liar, referring to the POTUS's repeated claims of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. While India has consistently denied these assertions, the US President continues to highlight his alleged role in de-escalating tensions between the two nations following the Pahalgam terror attack. No world leader asked India to halt' Following Rahul Gandhi's claims, PM Modi while addressing the Lok Sabha, refuted claims made by US President Donald Trump regarding his role in halting India's military action against Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took multiple swipes at the Opposition, accusing them of being obsessed with finding even a single instance of his failure during Operation Sindoor. Addressing the Lok Sabha, the prime minister said that while the whole country was proud when India destroyed all Pakistani missiles in the sky, the Congress was waiting to find one instance to attack him. Pakistan launched 1,000 missiles and drones towards India, but they were destroyed mid-air by our armed forces. If they had fallen on any part, it would have led to huge destruction, but India destroyed them in the sky. Whole India was proud of it, but the Congress was waiting, PM Modi said. Modi kahin toh fasega [Modi will slip up somewhere], the prime minister said. CONGRESS, PAK BOTH DEMANDING PROOFS Attacking the Congress more, the prime minister said the party operates through the remote control of Pakistan. The country is surprised that the Congress has given a clean chit to Pakistan. They are saying that the terrorists of Pahalgam were from Pakistan. Give us proof of this. Pakistan is also demanding the same thing that the Congress is making, he said. It has been an old habit with the Congress to have a negative approach to the armed forces; the Congress is yet to embrace the Kargil win, PM Modi said. Also Read | Say Donald Trump is a liar: Rahul Gandhi dares PM Narendra Modi during Operation Sindoor debate PM Narendra Modi continued, "On one hand, India is moving ahead at a fast pace towards self-reliance, but the Congress is becoming dependent on Pakistan for issues. Unfortunately, the Congress is importing issues from Pakistan..." "Just 3-4 days after the 22nd April terrorist attack, they [Congress] started jumping up and down. They started saying, "kahan gayi 56 inch ki chhati?" "Kahan kho gaya Modi?" "Modi has failed"...They were shaping their politics even in the murder of innocent people in Pahalgam," he said. Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on July 29 that all three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22 were neutralised during Operation Mahadev on the outskirts of Srinagar on Monday. In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, Shah said in Lok Sabha, speaking during a debate on Operation Sindoor on Tuesday afternoon. Twenty-six civilians were killed in the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, after which India retaliated through precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK). "All three terrorists - Suleman, Afghan and Jibran were killed in yesterday's operation. The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier. Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by those who were kept detained by our agencies." Shah said in the Parliament. Shah said the identification of the three terrorists killed was confirmed by four persons, including two arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The use of the same weapons by these three slain terrorists carried during the Pahalgam terror attack was confirmed through ballistic tests conducted by an FSL lab in Chandigarh, the Home Minister informed the Parliament. Also Read | PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah to address Lok Sabha today The NIA had already arrested those who gave them shelter. Those who fed them were detained. When the terrorists' dead bodies reached Srinagar, they were identified as the three people who carried out the terror attack in Pahalgam, Shah said in the House. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the Lok Sabha during the special discussion on 'Operation Sindoor', India's military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, on Monday. The FSL report of the cartridges from the terror attack was already ready... Yesterday, the rifles of the three terrorists were seized and matched with the FSL reports... Further tests were carried out in Chandigarh yesterday, after that it was confirmed that these three were those who carried out the terror attack, he said. Shah said that soon after Pahalgam attack, he had met the affected families. "I saw standing before me a woman who had been widowed just 6 days after her wedding- I can never forget that scene. I want to tell all families today that Modi ji neutralised those who sent the terrorists, and today our security forces killed those who committed the killings," he said. What is Operation Mahadev? The three terrorists were killed in an intense firefight with security forces in the Harwan area near Dachigam National Park of Srinagar inJammu and Kashmir,the Indian Army said on Monday. The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army said the anti-terror Operation Mahadev took place in the general area of Lidwas. The security forces, acting on an intelligence input, launched an anti-militancy operation in the Mulnar area of Harwan, they said. Two rounds of gunshots were heard from a distance as security personnel were carrying out searches, officials said, as reported by PTI. Indias satellite-based police communication network, Polnet, is set for a major upgrade, and some of the countrys biggest tech and defence players have spotted an opportunity. Tata Groups Nelco, Adanis subsidiary Alpha Design Technologies, Hughes, Cisco, and Bharat Electronics Ltd are among the firms eyeing contracts to supply new satellite terminals worth about 100-200 crore for the network, two government officials and industry executives in the know said on the condition of anonymity. Police Network or Polnet, a vital, secure communication system like the Internet for Indias police and security forces, was launched in 2002. It connects police stations and security forces, including the ones guarding borders or handling emergencies, called the Central Armed Police Forces, all over India through messages, calls, and videos. Given the need to have a continuous bandwidth without any disruptions for public protection and disaster relief, the addition of more VSAT (very small aperture) terminals is necessary. The same is part of a broader plan to modernize and expand the nationwide POLNET satellite communication network, ensuring enhanced, more resilient, and continuous communication for India's police and security forces," a government official said, adding that the current plan is to procure about 1,000 more VSAT terminals and related equipment. Also Read: BSNL aims to raise service quality, add customers to boost revenue: Minister VSAT is a small satellite-based communication system used to provide connectivity for police stations, ATMs, and disaster zones in remote areas where regular networks are not available or unreliable. Besides the static VSAT terminals, the governments plan is to also procure flyaway VSATs. These are portable satellite systems that can be easily transported and set up quickly by a couple of security personnel in an emergency, like a natural disaster, to get communication going fast. Security requirements This upgrade is also crucial for strengthening national security, as it will ensure uninterrupted communication for police and security forces during critical operations, especially in remote, border, and insurgency-affected areas. The Directorate of Coordination Police Wireless (DCPW) under the home affairs ministry is leading the effort to enhance Polnet and other projects for secure communications within the armed forces. In April, 10 companies, including Cisco, Hughes, Alpha Design, Nelco, Bharat Electronics, Electronics Corporation of India (ECIL) and Israel-based Gilat Satellite Networks, attended a pre-bid meeting to supply the required terminals and improve the network's connectivity, an industry executive said. The government has extended the deadline to submit bids multiple times. The last date is now 28 August. Similarly, a disaster recovery hub is also being established at the Interstate Police Wireless Transmitting Station in Banaswadi, Bengaluru. The plan is to ensure uninterrupted operations and continuity of communication during disasters and redundancy in case of an emergency at the main hub in Delhi, the second official quoted earlier said. The supplier of the VSAT terminals is required to provide necessary support to integrate this disaster recovery hub with the main hub, the person said. Need for next-gen satellites From what we understand, Polnet is currently an established VSAT network operating on older C-band technology. While the current RFP (request for proposal) aims to expand this network, it is equally important for the authorities to consider modernising the system with next-generation solutions such as low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites or high-throughput satellites (HTS)," said Shivaji Chatterjee, chief executive and managing director of Hughes Communications India, a provider of geosynchronous and LEO satellite services in the country. High-throughput satellites provide much faster and more efficient communication. Also Read: Property puzzle traps MTNL debt relief Chatterjee underscored the critical role of satellite connectivity in enabling rapid deployment and communication in remote and Naxal-affected regions. He noted that Hughes has recently deployed portable, suitcase-based satellite terminals to support police operations in Odisha and Chhattisgarh. With advancements in LEO technology, we could soon see even more compact, briefcase or backpack-sized terminals ideally suited for on-the-ground field operations," he added. Queries emailed to Adani Enterprises Ltd, Cisco, BEL, ECIL, and DCPW did not elicit a response till press time. Nelco declined to comment on "matters that may involve unpublished price-sensitive or confidential information", according to a response by Ritesh Kamdar, company secretary & headlegal at the Tata Group company. In 2020, the government introduced Polnet 2.0 for high-bandwidth satellite communication, video conferencing capabilities, multimedia support, and improved data sharing and command-control features across all police and paramilitary units in the country. The Polnet currently runs on GSAT (geo-stationary satellite) using a C-band signal with 36 MHz bandwidth, according to the governments tender document to procure VSAT terminals. The satellite is developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). C-Band frequencies are increasingly used to provide 5G mobile broadband services, offering better coverage and penetration, especially in suburban and rural areas. The government's move to modernize Polnet by upgrading terminals and establishing a disaster recovery hub is timely and essential," said Anil Prakash, director general of SatCom Industry Association (SIA-India). This overhaul can unlock a significant opportunity for Indias satcom ecosystem, both in terms of hardware deployment and services." Prakash said the government should prioritize adopting high-throughput satellite capacity, enable interoperability across networks, and consider private sector participation through more flexible procurement frameworks to make the most of this upgrade. Ensuring end-to-end encryption, seamless scalability, and real-time connectivity will be key to building a future-ready communication infrastructure, he said. Also Read: Draft telecom policy proposes incentives for using made-in-India gear In 2002, BEL was selected by the government through a tender process to establish Polnet, according to a defence ministry release dated 3 May 2002. Adanis subsidiary Alpha Design had in 2019 won the contract to supply and install the initial batch of VSAT terminals for Polnet 2.0. The company, which is into design, development and production of defence electronics and avionics equipment, was acquired by Adani Defence Systems, a wholly owned subsidiary of Adani Enterprises, in 2018. Union Home Minister Amit Shah blasted Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and the Congress Party in the Lok Sabha during the Monsoon Session of Parliament on July 28. He was speaking about Operation Mahadev, where three terrorists linked to the Pahalgam terror attack, were killed by the Indian Army. Pakistan is the root of all terrorism, and Pakistan is a mistake committed by the Congress. Had they rejected partition, it would not be there, Amit Shah said. He further claimed, Between 2005 and 11, there were 27 terrorists attacks. What did Congress government do? they just sent dossiers to Pakistan. Amit Shah attacks Congress: Who will take responsibility? Lashing out further at the Opposition, Amit Shah asked, Yes, it is our responsibility, but when you (Congress) were in power, a lot of attacks happened who will take responsibility for that? He also accused the Opposition of shielding Pakistan, adding, What hurt us was former Home Minister P Chidambaram questioning the Pakistani link of the terrorists. Why are you shielding Pakistan? Indias ex-home minister is asking for proof. They could have directly asked me, or the media. It was everywhere you all will not be spared. Amit Shah recalls Atal Bihari Vajpayee's POTA, says Congress objected Further, the minister also criticised the Congress for objecting to the 2002 NDA government's Prevention of Terrorism Act. In 2002, Atalji's NDA government had brought POTA. Who objected to POTA then? It was the Congress party... After coming to power in 2004, the Sonia Gandhi-Manmohan Singh government scrapped the POTA law... For whose benefit did Congress scrap POTA? Amit Shah asked. He also blamed former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru for the situation in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK), stating, ...Yesterday, they (Congress) were raising questions about why there was no war... Today, PoK exists only because of Jawaharlal Nehru... In 1960, they gave 80 per cent of the Indus waters to Pakistan... In 1971, during the Shimla Agreement, they (Congress) forgot to ask about PoK. If they had taken PoK then, we would not have to carry out attacks on camps there now Also Read | Amit Shah learns history from a middleman-turned-politician: Pawan Khera Amit Shah in Parliament: Enough proof 3 terrorists slain in Operation Mahadev were Pakistani Amit Shah further informed the Lok Sabha that there was enough proof that the three terrorists slain in Operation Mahadev were from Pakistan, adding that even chocolates found with them were made in Islamabad. We have confirmed the terrorists Pakistani links. We have Pakistans voter list. What will you get by saving Pakistan? Who are you trying to save? I want to tell him we have the proof that all three terrorists were from Pakistan. All their rifles, and even the chocolates we found, were made in Pakistan, he said. Lashkar-e-Taiba top commander Suleiman, involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, was among the three terrorists killed by security forces during the recent Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir, Amit Shah told the Parliament. Jalandhar: Congress MLAs from North Avtar Singh Junior and Jalandhar Cantonment Pargat Singh visited the Shaheed Babu Labh Singh Civil Hospital and slammed the Bhagwant Mann-led Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) Punjab government for "covering up lapses in case of the three patients who died on Sunday. Officials at the hospital confirmed a drop in oxygen supply but maintained that backup oxygen cylinders were activated immediately. The patients affected included a 15-year-old admitted for a snake bite, another being treated for a drug overdose, and a third suffering from tuberculosis. According to Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh, all three were placed on ventilators and a doctors' team from Chandigarh will independently investigate the case. He added that although there was a brief drop in pressure, lasting just over a minute during the system changeover, the backup oxygen supply was activated without delay. Regarding the snake bite patient, Singh noted that the individual was already struggling to maintain proper oxygen saturation levels even before the brief pressure dip. He further stated that all three patients were classified as "high-risk" and had existing complications. In response to a question, Singh clarified that the patients did not pass away simultaneously; there were a few minutes between each death. "How were the bodies handed over to the next of kin without carrying out post-mortem? How will the cause of death be established now? Avtar stated, further alleging the state government was "covering up the whole incident" and said Balbir should have resigned following the incident. Murderous negligence' Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring mentioned those involved for "negligence must be booked for murder". "This is not just criminal negligence, but murderous negligence and cold-blooded murder of three people. The tragic irony is that while they were put on ventilator, the oxygen supply got cut off and they lost their lives. This is murderous negligence and those responsible must be booked for murder," Warring said in a post on X. Committee set up to probe the case A nine-member committee was constituted to investigate the matter and is expected to submit its report within two days, said Raj Kumar, the hospitals medical superintendent, on Sunday. Meanwhile, the families of the deceased have alleged that a faulty oxygen supply was responsible for the deaths. On Monday, Punjab Horticulture and Defence Services Welfare Minister Mohinder Bhagat visited the hospital and held discussions with officials and health authorities regarding the incident. Extending his heartfelt condolences, Bhagat assured that the state government stands in solidarity with the grieving families and will ensure accountability and necessary corrective measures based on the inquirys findings. India's network of 26,000 public charging points for electric vehicles (EVs) across the country remains grossly under-utilized, prompting government and private operators to review their current installed units and examine available data on usage and traffic patterns before setting up new charging units. According to industry officials and experts, companies are now looking to leverage available traffic and EV penetration data to put up the chargers at locations where the usage of chargers can be maximized, which is currently estimated to be in the low-single-digit range. Most charging stations in India currently operate at 4% to 5% capacity utilization. This means the chargers are in use only for up to 2 hours in a day, which is significantly low and implies that on an average one car is charged using one charging point in operating hours," Atul Jairaj, Partner at Deloitte India, said. Also Read | Maruti Suzuki to enhance production flexibility for electric vehicles by 2030 Experts have cited charging points being slow to juice up the EVs, their placements at unviable or inconvenient locations and the rise of home chargers among the key reasons for a low usage of public charging units. State-run companies like Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation and private firms like Tata Power, Jio-bp and Statiq, among others, operate thousands of charging points in the country. Mint could not independently verify the utilisation of chargers run by each company. According to a reply by the Union heavy industries ministry in Parliament on 4 April, India had 26,367 public EV charging stations at the end of March. Utilisation of charging stations on a given day is measured using the total amount of energy consumed by vehicles against the total energy available at the charging station. Tata Motors, the countrys largest EV maker and the first original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to get into the space in 2018, notes that the charger utilisation varies as per locations, with high-frequency spots like highways seeing greater usage. Also Read | Electric vehicles now cheaper to run than petrol, finds CEEW study On a broader level, the average utilisation across the network remains in the single digits. That said, select locations, particularly those situated along key highways and in identified hotspots, are already achieving high utilization levels and have started generating positive Ebit returns," Balaje Rajan, chief strategy officer at Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, said. Tata Power, which has more than 5,400 public, semi-public and fleet charging stations, suggests that it is increasingly relying on data analytics to increase utilisation of chargers within the country. Recent trends show a steady rise in charger usage, driven by the accelerating adoption of electric vehicles," a company spokesperson said in response to Mints queries. To optimize deployment, we harness real-time data analytics to identify underperforming sites for corrective measures and to prioritize high-demand areas for expansion. By aligning charger placement with actual usage patterns, we enhance network efficiency, minimize congestion, and deliver a seamless charging experience for EV users." Priyans Murarka, founder of ExpWithEV.in, a data analytics platform for EV chargers, suggests that all charging players have had to go through a learning curve about where to place the EV chargers. A few years back, lack of data on EV usage meant that there was a lot of guesswork on where to put chargers," Murarka said. However, all the charging players are now looking closely at EV data and placing charging stations in right locations such as malls, highways, and dhabas, etc." Also Read | Insurance for EVs: Top factors to consider before buying battery insurance According to Murarkas analysis, a charging station needs utilization in the 12.5% to 15% range to break even at operational level and most fast-charging stations are already running close to the 10% level. With electric vehicle sales continuing to rise in the country, firms are rushing to get their strategies right. In FY25, over nearly 2 million electric cars, scooters, buses and trucks were registered in the country, a jump of 16% over the year prior. Automakers sold a total 25.6 million vehicles in the country in the year to March. Statiq, which claims to operate more than 7,000 charging stations, suggests that it is witnessing healthy trends on its EV charger network. However, Akshit Bansal, chief executive officer and founder at Statiq, points to a shift in strategy of how locations are being chosen for new public EV charging stations. There has been a marked shift in how locations for new EV chargers are being selected. The process is now far more data-driven and strategic, with decisions based on traffic patterns, user behavior, and partnerships with local utilities and infrastructure providers," Bansal said. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday sought answers from Rahul Gandhi on a list of terrorists who fled while the Congress was in power at the Centre. Shah was speaking in the Lok Sabha during a special discussion on Operation Sindoor. They were asking why they fled. Now Ill briefly say. Dawood Ibrahim Kaskar fled in 1986 during Rajiv Gandhis government. Syed Salahuddin fled in 1993 Congress government. Tiger Memon fled in 1993 Congress government, Shah said in the House. Also Read | All 3 terrorists involved in Pahalgam attack killed: Amit Shah in LS The Congress said on Monday that Home Minister Amit Shah must take the responsibility for the "security lapses" that allowed the Pahalgam terror attack, while asking the Centre to clarify how many Indian jets were downed during Operation Sindoor and "before whom did Prime Minister Narendra Modi surrender" to halt the military action against Pakistan. The Congress also asked questions about the whereabouts of those behind the Pahalgam terror attack. "Anees Ibrahim Kaskar fled in 1993 their government. Riyaz Bhatkal fled in 2007 their government. Iqbal Bhatkal fled in 2010 their government. Mirza Shadab Baig fled in 2009 their government. Now they asked me for an answer. Our security forces have given that answer. Now Rahul Gandhi should answer for this," Shah said on Tuesday. Earlier, Shah announced that all three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 were neutralised during Operation Mahadev on the outskirts of Srinagar on Monday. Also Read | Operation Mahadev: Shah shares chronology of mission that killed 3 terrorists In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, Shah said. Twenty-six civilians were killed in the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, after which India retaliated through precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). They were asking why they fled. Now Ill briefly say. Representatives from the United States are set to visit India on 25 August 2025 for the next round of negotiations for the proposed India-US trade deal, news agency PTI reported on Tuesday, 29 July 2025, citing officials aware of the development. The US team is visiting for the sixth round of talks, the official told the news agency. He also mentioned that the two nations will continue to negotiate an interim trade deal as US President Donald Trump's 1 August tariff deadline nears. Trump's tariffs on world nations will be imposed on 1 August 2025 after the end of the suspension period, which means exports from India to the United States will witness the effect of a 26 per cent tariff rate on top of the existing 10 per cent baseline duty. US-India tariff talks Indian and US delegations finished their fifth round of trade talks last week in Washington. India's chief negotiator and special secretary of the Department of Commerce, Rajesh Agrawal, and Assistant US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, Brendan Lynch, discussed the trade deal ahead of the tariff deadline. According to the report, both nations are looking to finalise an interim trade deal before the August tariff deadline. The reciprocal tariffs were imposed on 2 April 2025 and were supposed to take effect from 9 July 2025. However, the deadline for the imposition of the import duties was later extended to 1 August 2025. India-US trade negotiations India, in its trade negotiations with the US, has hardened its position on the US's demand for import duty cuts on agriculture and dairy products. However, the country has not given any import duty cuts on these products to any of its trading partners, as per the agency report. Farmer associations across India have also requested the government not to include any issues related to agriculture in the trade deal. Also Read | Govt may hold retail trade policy as India-US trade talks enter final leg India aims to remove the additional 26 per cent tariffs, along with the 50 per cent rates on steel and aluminium and 25 per cent tariffs on automobiles. The nation has also reserved its rights under the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to impose retaliatory tariffs on the Western nation. India also wants tariff cuts on textiles, gems and jewellery, leather goods, garments, plastics, chemicals, shrimp, oil seeds, grapes, and bananas. In exchange, the United States is seeking tariff cuts on industrial goods, automobiles, especially electric vehicles, wines, petrochemical products, agri goods, dairy products, apples, tree nuts, and genetically modified crops. Lord Meghnad Desai, an eminent economist and House of Lords member, passed away on Tuesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed anguish over Desai's demise, stating how the economist played a role in deepening India-UK ties. Desai was 85-years-old. Anguished by the passing away of Shri Meghnad Desai Ji, a distinguished thinker, writer and economist. He always remained connected to India and Indian culture. He also played a role in deepening India-UK ties. Will fondly recall our discussions, where he shared his valuable insights. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti," PM Modi posted on X, along with a photo of the prominent economist. Who was Meghnad Desai Born in Gujarat's Vadodara, Meghnad Desai was the emeritus professor of Economics at the London School of Economics. Also Read | Tributes pour in after legendary actor Kota Srinivasa Rao's death In 1992, Desai established the Centre for the Study of Global Governance at the eminent institution. Sanjeev Sanyal condoles Meghnad Desai's demise Sanjeev Sanyal, an economist and member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Economic Advisory Council, also condoled Lord Meghnad Desai's death. Very sorry to hear that eminent economist Meghnad Desai has passed away. I had known him for over two decades. He was always cheerful and open to new ideas. I will cherish the many long discussions and debates that we had over the years. Om Shanti, Sanjeev Sanyal posted on X. Manish Sisodia pays tribute Aam Admi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia also paid a tribute to Meghnad Desai. Calling Desai a towering intellectual, Manish Sisodia said the economist challenged orthodoxies with intellectual courage and effortless charm. Home Minister Amit Shah, during Monsoon Session of Parliament on July 29, confirmed that the Pahalgam attack terrorists were killed in Operation Mahadev and revealed their names. In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack. Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families by asking their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones, Shah said while addressing the lower house. All three terrorists - Suleman, Afghan and Jibran were killed in yesterday's operation. While Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, Afghani was also an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terroris, Jibran too was a notorious and wanted terrorist. All these three terrorists involved in the killing of our citizens at Baisaran valley in Pahalgam have now been eliminated," Shah specified in a special session on Operation Sindoor. Recoveries from terrorists The armsM-9 and AK-47 riflesfound from the terrorists were flown to Chandigarh on Monday night in a special flight for assessment at the Central Forensic Science Laboratory. Shah mentioned the forensic lab matched empty cartridges recovered at Pahalgam and those after test firing by the guns found, adding he has the ballistic report. "Six forensic experts have confirmed to me on a video call this morning that these are the same bullets used in the Pahalgam attack," he stated. Chocolates manufactured in Pakistan, two voter IDs, werapons were among the items security forces recovered, he further said. Know about the Operation Mahadev The security forces in the Harwan area near Dachigam National Park of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir neutralised three terrorists after engaging in intense firefight. According to HT, Srinagar senior superintendent of police GV Sundeep Chakravarty yesterday informed that the three terrorists hailed from Pakistan and were from banned Lashkar-e-Toiba. It was carried out after intelligence and technical surveillance flagged terrorist movement in the region. 24 Rashtriya Rifles and 4 Para unit noticed terrorist activity in the Mulnar area of Harwan. The encounter began at 11 am. Also Read | Operation Mahadev: Shah shares chronology of mission that killed 3 terrorists The Indian Army's Chinar Corps account on X informed, Contact established in General Area Lidwas. Operation in progress. Later, it stated, Three terrorist have been neutralised in an intense firefight. Operation Continues. Congress parliamentary party leader Sonia Gandhi has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of adopting a "shameful silence" on Israel's military action in the Palestinian territory. In her article published in Hindi newspaper Dainik Jagran, Gandhi said the Gaza conflict had "exposed one of the most serious vulnerabilities in the Global order and called on Prime Minister Modi to speak up against the killing of more than 55,000 Palestinians, including 17,000 children, in the territory. Gandhi recalled how in 1974, under the leadership of Indira Gandhi, India became the first non-Arab country to recognise the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) as the sole and legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. She also said that in the article in 1988, India was among the first countries to officially recognise the State of Palestine. The former Congress president urged Modi, thus, to speak out "clearly, boldly and forthrightly" on behalf of the legacy that India has long represented. Sonia also reiterated India being a "symbol of global justice" and inspiring anti-colonial movements, while raising a voice against imperialism, and specifically being a supporter of the two-state solution. She criticised the lack of action on United Nations General Assembly resolutions calling for a permanent and unconditional ceasefire, saying these have been completely ignored. "But as members of the international community and more so as human beings it is our responsibility to acknowledge that the Israeli government's response and reprisals against the civilian population of Gaza have not only been egregious, but downright criminal," Sonia Gandhi wrote in her article titled Gaza sankat par mookdarshak Modi sarkaar ('Modi government a mute spectator amid Gaza tragedy'). Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge repeated the views of Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi,accusing the Modi government of being a "silent spectator in the Gaza crisis." It is our responsibility to acknowledge that the Israeli government's response has been downright criminal. In a post on X sharing a picture of the newspaper article, Kharge said, "This is the height of moral cowardice. The time has come for him to raise a strong voice, in clear and bold words, on behalf of the legacy that India has represented. Today, the Global South is once again awaiting India's leadership on this issue that shakes the collective conscience of all humanity." Indian security forces have killed three gunmen who were involved in an attack on Hindu tourists in Kashmir, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Tuesday. The heavily-armed men were killed in a military operation on Monday, more than three months after 26 people were gunned down in a popular resort town of Indian Kashmir on April 22, Amit Shah informed. On Pahalgam Terrorists Killed Amit Shah told Lok Sabha that top Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Suleman, along with Afghan and Jibranalso A-category terroristswere killed in Operation Mahadev, a joint mission by the Army, CRPF, and J&K Police. "... In the Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal..., Afghan and Jibran, these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police... Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist... All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated...," Shah said during the second debate on the Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. The BJP leader said, " All three terrorists - Suleman, Afghan and Jibran were killed in yesterday's operation. The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier. Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by those who were kept detained by our agencies." On Determining Pakistani Identity of Terrorists Amit Shah told Parliament that the three terrorists killed in Kashmir were confirmed to be involved in the April 22 Pahalgam attack. Detainees who had aided the terrorists identified the bodies. Weapons recoveredan M-9 and an AK-47were flown to Chandigarh for forensic testing, which matched them to cartridges found at the attack site. Shah said six forensic experts confirmed the match via video call. He added that Pakistani voter IDs, Pakistani-made chocolates, and weapons were also recovered from the slain terrorists. On Operation Mahadev Operation Mahadev was launched on May 22, 2025, said Amit Shah in Lok Sabha. He added that he reached Srinagar by 5:30 PM, and a high-level security meeting was held that evening, where it was decided that the terrorists must not be allowed to flee the country. On Operation Sindoor In surgical and air strikes, India attacked targets in PoK; in Operation Sindoor, targets were 100 km inside Pakistan, said Amit Shah, adding ,On 30th April, there was a meeting of the CCS, in which the security forces were given complete operational freedom. Operation Sindoor was launched on 7th May and carried out between 1:04 am and 1:24 am. In this operation, nine terror sites in Pakistan were destroyed. No Pakistani civilians were killed in this attack. Pakistan Had no Choice But to Request Ceasefire India's armed forces crippled Pakistan's defence systems, it had no choice but to request India to halt attacks, Amit Shah told Lok Sabha on Tuesday., adding Operation Sindoor exposed state sponsored terrorism in Pakistan, he added. What Did Terrorists Do in Kashmir? Amit Shah said the NIA interrogated over 1,055 witnesses after the Pahalgam attack. He added that three Pakistani terrorists had stayed with locals Basheer and Parvez, who helped them reach Baisaran with AK-47 and Mi-9 guns. The terrorists, also linked to the APCO terror attack, were killed, and the two locals arrested. On Nehru and Congress Amit Shah took a customary swipe at Nehru, saying the former PM had bid goodbye to Assam during the 1962 war and declared a unilateral ceasefire in 1948 despite Indian forces being in a strong position to reclaim PoK. On P Chidambaram In Lok Sabha, Amit Shah criticised Congress leader P. Chidambaram for questioning proof of Pakistani involvement in the Pahalgam attack, accusing him of giving a "clean chit" to Pakistan. Shah also invoked history, stating that in 1948, Indian forces were poised to reclaim PoK, but then PM Nehru declared a unilateral ceasefire. 'Terrorists were killed and you're not happy' Amid protests by the Opposition MPs during his address in the Lok Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said to them, Terrorists got killed and you are not happy? You should be celebrating. He further urged MP Akhilesh Yadav to let him complete his address and display facts regarding Operation Mahadev. Terror infrastructure destroyed in J&K Amit Shah briefs on ground situation of Jammu-Kashmir. Between 2004-2014, there were 7200 terror incidents, 714 civilians died, 1068 security personnel died. Between 2015-2025, 1525 terror incidents occured, 324 civilians died, 542 security personnel died and number of terrorists killed has increased by 162%, listed Shah. He asserted that revocation of Article 370 has destroyed terror infrastructure in J&K and that no talks will be held with Hurriyat as it is a terror group. What is Operation Mahadev? On Monday, the three terrorists were killed in Operation Mahadev in an intense firefight with security forces in the Harwan area near Dachigam National Park of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir. The anti-terror Operation Mahadev took place in the general area of Lidwas, Chinar Corps of Indian Army said. Parliament Session Highlights: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that no leader in the world had asked India to stop during Operation Sindoor. Ahead of PM Modi's speech, Rahul Gandhi, while referring to Trump's repeated claims of brokering a ceasefire, had attacked the government claiming that the Prime Minister should call Trump a liar, if he was actually not the person behind the ceasefire deal between India and Pakistan. Earlier in the day, Home Minister Amit Shah briefed the House on Operation Mahadev in which three terrorists, Suleiman alias (Faizal Jat), Afghan and Jibran were killed in a joint operation by J&K police, Indian Army and CRPF. The discussion is part of a three-day debate on the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent military response, launched after a week of parliamentary disruptions. While the BJP and its allies praised the Modi government for delivering a strong and decisive response to Pakistans terror networks, they also criticised the opposition for allegedly undermining the morale of the armed forces. In contrast, opposition parties hit back by raising questions about security lapses that led to the Pahalgam attack. They also pointed to US President Donald Trump's claims of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, demanding clarity from the government and criticising the intelligence apparatus for failing to apprehend those behind the terror strike. New Delhi: As many as 27 statesall except West Bengalhave received central approval to set up PM Ekta Malls for showcasing and selling indigenous products under the 'One District, One Product' (ODOP) initiative. The Union government cleared projects worth nearly 4,796 crore in fiscal year 2023-24 under the scheme, official data shows. The PM Ekta Mall scheme, announced in the Union Budget 2023-24, aims to provide dedicated retail space for each state and Union Territory to promote ODOP items, Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged goods and local handicrafts. Also Read | Indias retail focus returns to malls as high street leasing falls 26% in Q2 2025 The scheme is being implemented under Part-VI of the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) framework by the ministry of finance. Union minister of state for commerce and industry Jitin Prasada informed the Lok Sabha in a written reply that, upon the recommendation of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), the Department of Expenditure has approved Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) of 27 states for the construction of PM Ekta Malls. As per the information provided by the minister to Lok Sabha on Tuesday,the highest allocation has gone to Uttar Pradesh, which has been permitted to set up three Ekta Mallsone each in Agra, Lucknow, and Varanasireceiving 370.25 crore, given the state's size and diversity of local crafts. Madhya Pradesh follows with an allocation of 284 crore for a mall in Ujjain, while Assam has been sanctioned 226 crore for the project in Guwahati. Also Read | The writing is on the wall for multiplexes. Malls are cutting screens to size Tamil Nadu and Bihar have also received substantial support, with 223 crore and 212.69 crore respectively, to build Ekta Malls in Chennai and Patna. Other prominent states include Gujarat and Telangana, each sanctioned 202 crore, and Maharashtra, which has received 195.14 crore for the Navi Mumbai mall. Under the SASCI guidelines, states had to submit detailed project reports, with allocations made on a first-come, first-served basis. The government had earmarked a total of 5,000 crore for the scheme. States are required to provide land for the malls free of cost or bear the cost of acquisition. The initiative is designed to create retail-level visibility for India's traditional and regional products, offering artisans and producers a permanent marketing platform in prime urban locations, said Prasada in a written reply to the Lok Sabha. All states are encouraged to establish PM Ekta Mall (Unity Mall), announced in the Union Budget 2023-24, for the promotion and sale of ODOP, GI products, and other handicrafts from across the country, the minister said. The malls are to be preferably located in state capitals, or in financial or tourism hubs in cases where that offers better visibility. While 27 states have received approvals and funding, states/UTs that are yet to commence work or secure central clearance for their Ekta Mall projects include West Bengal, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh, Ladakh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his reply to hours of debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha, spoke about India's military action against Pakistan and took swipes at the Opposition. PM Modi also pushed back against US President Donald Trumps repeated claims of mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, stating that he had told US Vice President JD Vance on the night of May 9 that Pakistan would face serious consequences for any attack on India. PM also said that India destroyed about 1,000 Pakistani missiles and drones mid-air during Operation Sindoor. Here are top five things the prime minister said in his address: REBUTTAL TO TRUMP CLAIMS In his address to the Lok Sabha, PM Modi asserted that no world leader told India to stop Operation Sindoor. The prime minister said while US Vice President JD Vance had called him a few times, he couldn't take any calls as he was busy in the meetings. The Vice President told me that Pakistan is going to launch a big attack. I told him if this is Pakistans intention, then this will cost it dearly. We will respond with a bigger attack. We will fire cannonballs against their bullets. No world leader asked India to stop its military operation, he said. BAS KARO, MAT MARO Speaking of India's military action on Pakistan, PM Modi said the Indian DGMO informed his Pakistani counterpart after India hit the terror infrastructure. When Pakistan retaliated, the Indian armed forces taught it a lesson it will not forget for years. The prime minister said Pakistan was brought to its knees following Indian strikes in its different corners. The prime minister cited comments of some Pakistanis, which appeared on social media, to stress on their shock at the Indian attack. Their DGMO called up the Indian DGMO saying, Bas karo, bahut mara... stop the attack. They could not bear it any more, he said. PM Modi also said that the Indian defence system destroyed 1,000 drones and missiles launched by Pakistan mid-air. RECTIFIED NEHRU BLUNDER The prime minister also said that the Central government put the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance after the Pahalgam terror attack, thus rectifying a "big blunder" committed by the country's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Amid protests from Congress members, PM Modi said, It has been an old habit of the Congress to mortgage India's interests. The biggest example of this is the Indus Waters Treaty. Who signed this treaty? Nehru did it and granted rights to 80 per cent of the waters of the rivers originating in India and flowing to Pakistan. He said India gets its identity from the Indus river, but Nehru and the Congress allowed the World Bank to decide on the sharing of the waters of the Indus and the Jhelum. Nehru signed this treaty that granted rights to 80 per cent water to Pakistan and 20 per cent to a big country like India. What kind of diplomacy is this? Modi asked. India has firmly conveyed its stance that blood and water cannot flow together, he said. DIG AT CONGRESS OVER THAROOR PM Narendra Modi also took a jibe at Congress for not keeping Shashi Tharoor and Manish Tewari's names in the list of participants in the Operation Sindoor debate. Though the prime minister did not name anyone, he was apparently referring to two Congress MPs Shashi Tharoor and Manish Tewari who did not speak during the debate on Operation Sindoor. Those who consider themselves big leaders of Congress are feeling pain as to why Indias stand was presented before the world. Perhaps some leaders have been barred even from speaking in Parliament. There is a need to get rid of this mindset. OPPN FINDS EXCUSES TO OPPOSE ANYTHING Taking a jibe at at the Opposition, PM Modi accused it of finding new excuses to oppose army operations, including the Operation Sindoor. "Terrorists are crying, their masterminds are crying and seeing them cry, some people are crying here too. They tried to play a game during the surgical strike; it didn't work. During the airstrike, they tried playing another game. That didn't work either. When Operation Sindoor took place, they adopted a new tactic--"Why did you stop?"...Waah re bayan bahaduron! You need one or the other excuse to oppose. So, not just me but the entire country is laughing at you," the Prime Minister said. A 27-year-old Dalit software engineer was brutally hacked to death in Tamil Nadus Tirunelveli district, allegedly over an inter-caste relationship, police said on Monday. The victim, Kavin Selva Ganesh, who was employed at a software firm in Chennai, belonged to the Devendra Kula Vellalar community, a Scheduled Caste group, according top PTI. The suspect, S Surjith, the brother of the woman Ganesh was reportedly in a relationship with, has been arrested and booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Shockingly, police confirmed that both of Surjiths parents are serving as sub-inspectors, and a case has been registered against them as well. The incident occurred on Sunday evening, when Ganesh had gone to a Siddha clinic in Tirunelveli town to meet S Subhashini, a practitioner at the facility and his former schoolmate, reportedly to seek treatment for his ailing grandfather. An argument allegedly broke out between Ganesh and Surjith outside the clinic. Police say Surjith, enraged over the inter-caste relationship, attacked Ganesh with a sickle. His body was later discovered around 200 metres from the clinic. A post-mortem was conducted at the Tirunelveli Government Hospital. Subhashinis family belongs to the Maravar community, a dominant caste group in southern Tamil Nadu. According to police, her family had long opposed her relationship with Ganesh due to caste differences. According to News18 report, the accuseds parents both sub-inspectors attached to a battalion in Manimuthar have also been named in the FIR following a complaint by Ganeshs mother, S Tamilselvi, who alleged that they had issued repeated threats to her son. My son is an innocent person. The woman asked him to come to the hospital. The accused took my son out, threw chilli powder on his face, and attacked him with a machete The government should immediately expel his mother and father from service. We will not receive my sons body unless action is taken," News18 quoted the victims father, Chandrashekar. Ten Indian nationals were refused entry into Malaysia at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) despite the countrys ongoing visa-free travel policy for Indian passport holders, MalayMail reported. The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) carried out a seven-hour immigration operation at Terminal 1 of KLIA on Friday, targeting passengers from high-risk flights. According to officials, more than 400 travellers were screened during the operation. Of the 99 foreign nationals denied entry, 80 were from Bangladesh, 10 from India, and 9 from Pakistan. All were men, the authorities said. Failed To Meet Immigration Checks In a statement, AKPS confirmed, They were denied as they failed to meet immigration checks, including having suspicious reasons for visiting and travel records. The agency added that those refused entry were taken through additional documentation procedures before being deported to their home countries as per legal protocols. The checks included background screenings, examination of travel documents, and individual interviews. AKPS said such operations will be carried out regularly to curb misuse of social visit passes and prevent human trafficking. A dangerous and prolonged heatwave continues to scorch the Central and Eastern United States, driven by a strong upper-level ridge, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). In its latest forecast, the NWS Weather Prediction Center, Maryland, warned that daily high temperatures will soar well into the 90s and 100s through the end of the month. Compounding the danger is little to no overnight relief, which the agency says will be particularly dangerous to those without adequate cooling or hydration. The NWS noted that the heatwave is likely to break daily temperature records throughout the week. Florida is expected to see highs near 100F today, while the Northeast may reach the mid to upper 90s, possibly tying or surpassing existing records. 165 million under heat alerts The intense heatwave continues to affect a vast swath of the country, with ABC News reporting that more than 165 million Americans are under heat alerts, stretching from Nebraska to New Hampshire and Florida. Extreme heat warnings are in place from New Orleans to St. Louis, with heat indices as high as 116F. Florida cities like Jacksonville and Orlando may also see feels-like temperatures reaching 116F. In the Northeast, heat advisories are active from Pennsylvania to Maine, where indices could range from 95F to 105F. Other parts of the Midwest and South may see heat index values between 100F and 110F. According to the news outlet, the heat dome is expected to weaken gradually, shifting southward by the weekend. Much of the country will return to typical summer heat levels, and some regions may even trend slightly below average. Storm threats and flash flood risks expand across Plains and Southwest According to the NWS Weather Prediction Center, Maryland, a combination of shortwave energy, anomalous moisture, and atmospheric instability is expected to generate afternoon and evening thunderstorms across the Northern and Central Plains today. Storms are forecast to initiate in eastern Montana before merging into a mesoscale convective system (MCS) that will move through the Dakotas, Wyoming, Nebraska, and into Iowa by Wednesday morning. The NWS has issued a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe thunderstorms in the affected areas, warning of damaging winds and hail. Additionally, there is at least a 15% chance of excessive rainfall, raising concerns about localized flash flooding. Storms to continue across Midwest on Wednesday The storm system is expected to intensify again over the Midwest on Wednesday, where moisture and instability will remain in place. The NWS has placed portions of Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, and western Indiana under a Slight Risk of Excessive Rainfall, citing the potential for heavy rainfall and flash flooding. Monsoonal moisture drives Southwest flood threat Meanwhile, shortwave energy rotating around the western edge of a dominant upper ridge is expected to continue pulling tropical moisture into the Southwest, according to the NWS. This pattern will result in scattered to isolated diurnal thunderstorms today, with flash flooding risks especially in vulnerable areas such as burn scars in New Mexico. US Attorney General Pam Bondi on announced that the Justice Department has filed a misconduct complaint against US District Court Chief Judge James Boasberg. The DOJ alleges Boasberg made improper public comments about President Donald Trump and his administration during a closed-door judicial conference. Today at my direction, [DOJ] filed a misconduct complaint against US District Court Chief Judge James Boasberg for making improper public comments about President Trump and his Administration, Pam Bondi wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Complaint filed with appeals court chief The complaint was submitted to Chief Judge Sri Srinivasan of the US Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit and was authored by Chad Mizelle, Bondis chief of staff. According to the document, the remarks were made on March 11 at a Judicial Conference of the United States meeting attended by Chief Justice John Roberts and roughly twelve other judges. Mizelle alleges Judge Boasberg strayed from administrative topics and attempted to improperly influence his colleagues by predicting that the Trump administration would disregard rulings of federal courts and cause a constitutional crisis. DOJ: Remarks lacked basis and violated conduct rules The Department of Justice respectfully submits this complaint alleging misconduct by US District Court Chief Judge James E. Boasberg that have undermined the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary, the complaint reads, as quoted by Fox News. Mizelle further stated: Although his comments would be inappropriate even if they had some basis, they were even worse because Judge Boasberg had no basisthe Trump Administration has always complied with all court orders. The complaint also notes that Judge Boasberg failed to cite any examples of non-compliance, making his unprecedented predictions all the more troubling. Timing questioned as judge later blocked deportations The DOJ points out that Boasberg made the remarks just days before presiding over a case involving Trumps use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport suspected Venezuelan gang members. According to the complaint, Boasberg issued a temporary restraining order on March 15 blocking deportation flightsan order that was later vacated by the Supreme Court. Within days of those statements, Judge Boasberg began acting on his preconceived belief that the Trump Administration would not follow court orders, Mizelle wrote. DOJ seeks recusal from case The DOJ is asking for the complaint to be referred to a special investigative committee to determine whether Boasbergs conduct amounts to conduct prejudicial to the effective and expeditious administration of the business of the courts. Additionally, the DOJ is requesting that Boasberg be removed from the ongoing case involving deportations of Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador to prevent further erosion of public confidence while the investigation proceeds. Allegations of bias and partisan influence Boasberg, 62, is an appointee of former President Barack Obama and currently serves as the chief judge of the US District Court for the District of Columbia. Mizelle argued that Boasbergs comments and judicial actions reflect bias and violate the Code of Conduct for US Judges, which requires impartiality. Taken together, Judge Boasbergs words and deeds violate Canons of the Code of Conduct for United States Judges, and, erode public confidence in judicial neutrality, and warrant a formal investigation, the complaint concludes. (Bloomberg) -- US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said more negotiations will be needed with India on a trade deal just days before an Aug. 1 deadline for higher tariffs. Washington needs additional talks to gauge how ambitious Indias government is willing to be to secure a trade agreement, Greer said in an interview on CNBC on Monday. He acknowledged he had previously suggested a deal with New Delhi might be imminent, but highlighted that Indias historic policy of strongly protecting its market meant that reducing barriers would represent a major reversal. We continue to speak with our Indian counterparts, weve always had very constructive discussions with them, he said. The comments indicate that Indias hopes of securing an interim trade deal before the Aug. 1 deadline are fading as New Delhi and Washington are yet to find a common ground on contentious issues. While India was among the first nations to approach the White House for trade talks earlier this year, it has recently toughened its stance in negotiations. Indias Ministry of Commerce and Industry didnt immediately respond to an email seeking further comment. They have expressed strong interest in opening portions of their market, we of course are willing to continue talking to them, Greer said. But I think we need some more negotiations on that with our Indian friends to see how ambitious they want to be. He spoke a few days after Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said he was optimistic that an agreement could be reached to avert threatened tariffs of 26%. Goyal insisted there werent any sticking points in the US-India relationship, and said that immigration rules including those around H-1B visas for skilled workers had not come up in talks. Greer did not say what would happen if no deal was reached with India by the White Houses deadline. US President Donald Trump has touted zero tariffs in the preliminary agreements with the European Union and Japan, while promising to impose even higher duties on Aug. 1 for countries that havent cut deals. Follow Bloomberg India on WhatsApp for exclusive content and analysis on what billionaires, businesses and markets are doing. Sign up here. Trump has separately threatened to hit countries like India and China with secondary tariffs for buying oil from Russia. As part of its trade negotiations, India has expressed willingness to offer zero tariffs on some goods like auto components and pharmaceuticals, while barriers on sectors like agriculture and dairy remain red lines it wont breach in the final agreement, Bloomberg News reported earlier this month. The thing to understand with India is their trade policy for a very long time has been premised on strongly protecting their domestic market. Thats just how they do business Greer said. And the president is in a mode of wanting deals that substantially open other markets, that they open everything or near everything. Slow Business The uncertainty on India-US trade agreement has slowed business activity in some sectors, with industries from gems to toys and textiles witnessing order suspensions. Kanodia Global, a manufacturer and exporter of home fabrics and textiles to the US, said customers including Walmart Inc. are turning cautious and holding out on giving large orders. US buyers want shorter delivery time as they dont want their money stuck while the final tariff rate changes, said the companys director Ashish Kanodia. Our orders are stuck in limbo. If certainty is there, we will be able to move forward. Sabyasachi Ray, executive director at The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council, also expressed concern over weak business. People are tired, he said. We will be highly affected. But something has to come, so we will see. (Updates with more details from 13th paragraph) More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com China has launched Mazu, an AI-based weather warning system. It is named after the Chinese sea goddess. The AI tool can help developing nations handle natural disasters. The system was revealed at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai. The name Mazu holds deep meaning, especially along Chinas coast. Known as the protector of fishermen, her temples still stand in Fujian and Taiwan. In 2009, Mazu beliefs were listed as UNESCO cultural heritage. The initiative is part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI. Started in 2013 by President Xi Jinping, it is the worlds largest global investment plan. It connects 147 countries across Asia, Africa and Europe. Built for global use, Mazu aims to support countries by offering early warnings for extreme weather, according to the South China Morning Post. Chinas weather body, the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), is working with nations like Ethiopia and Pakistan to develop these systems together. Zeng Qin, CMAs director of international cooperation, said, Wherever Mazu is seen around the world, it serves as a symbol of our joint response to extreme weather. Many countries have strong weather warning systems. In the US, the National Weather Service uses powerful computers and radar to give accurate forecasts, especially for hurricanes. In the US, free weather data is given by the NWS and NOAA. Japan leads in earthquake and tsunami alerts. The EUs Copernicus programme uses satellites to track environmental changes and predict weather. However, these systems mostly help their own regions and focus on specific disasters, according to SCMP. They also rely on local supercomputers. AI use in India for weather forecasts India is using artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve weather forecasting. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) now uses AI for better rainfall and cyclone predictions, heatwave alerts and quick warnings for cloudbursts. The Ministry of Earth Sciences has set up a special virtual centre at IITM Pune for AI-based research. Under Mission Mausam and WINDS, over 2 lakh weather stations are feeding real-time data to improve local forecasts. Colombia's former President Alvaro Uribe was found guilty on Monday of abuse of process and bribing a public official in a long-running witness-tampering case, marking the first time a former Colombian president has been convicted at trial. Judge Sandra Liliana Heredia delivered the verdict in court, acquitting Uribe of a third charge related to bribery. The ruling, which Uribe is likely to challenge through an appeal, is the latest development in a deeply political legal battle that has stretched over 13 years. Monday's verdict comes following a trial that lasted for six months, in the Colombian capital of Bogota. Prosecutors presented evidence that the former President used his power to influence witnesses who accused him of of having links to a paramilitary group founded by ranchers in the 1990s. Each charge carries a jail sentence of between six and 12 years. Heredia is expected to sentence Uribe in a later hearing. "Justice does not kneel before power," Heredia told the court on Monday morning, before spending about nine hours reading her decision. "It is at the service of the Colombian people." "We want to say to Colombia that justice has arrived," she said, adding that her full decision is some 1,000 pages long. Uribe reacts, US defends former Prez Uribe, 73, and his supporters say the process is a persecution and that he is innocent. His detractors have celebrated it as the deserved downfall for a man who has been repeatedly accused of close relationships with violent right-wing paramilitaries, but never convicted of any crime. Uribe and one of his lawyers, Jaime Granados, joined the hearing via video link, while another lawyer, Jaime Lombana, appeared in person. Also Read | US Recalls Top Colombia Diplomat as Once-Warm Relations Sour Granados said the presumption of Uribe's innocence should be maintained and asked for him to remain free during the remainder of the process, a decision Heredia said she will take on Friday. Both detractors and supporters of the former president gathered outside the court, with some Uribe backers sporting masks of his face. Uribe's trial triggered sharp criticism from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio ahead of the judge's decision. Uribe had a close relationship with the US during his two terms as President. "Uribe's only crime has been to tirelessly fight and defend his homeland. The weaponisation of Colombia's judicial branch by radical judges has now set a worrisomeprecedent," Rubio said on X. "A decision against the ex-president could generate some kind of reprisal by the government of the United States," Banco de Bogota said in a note on Monday, referring to a proposal by U.S. Republican lawmaker Mario Diaz-Balart to cut non-military aid to Colombia next year, partly on concerns of due process violations in the Uribe case. Uribe's punishment Even if the conviction is eventually upheld, Uribe may be allowed to serve his sentence on house arrest because of his age. Uribe, who was president from 2002 to 2010 and oversaw a military offensive against leftist guerrilla groups, was investigated along with several allies over allegations of witness tampering carried out in an attempt to discredit accusations he had ties to paramilitaries. Judges have twice rejected requests by prosecutors to shelve the case, which stems from Uribe's allegation in 2012 that leftist Senator Ivan Cepeda had orchestrated a plot to tie him to paramilitaries. The Supreme Court said in 2018 that Cepeda had collected information from former fighters as part of his work and had not paid or pressured former paramilitaries. Instead, the court said it was Uribe and his allies who pressured witnesses. Cepeda attended the hearing in person with his counsel. Uribe, who was placed under house arrest for two months in 2020, is head of the powerful Democratic Center party and was a senator for years both before and after his presidency. He has repeatedly emphasised that he extradited paramilitary leaders to the United States. Colombia's truth commission says paramilitary groups, which demobilised under deals with Uribe's government, killed more than 205,000 people, nearly half of the 450,000 deaths recorded during the ongoing civil conflict. Paramilitaries, along with guerrilla groups and members of the armed forces, also committed forced disappearances, sexual violence, displacement and other crimes. US President Donald Trump said that he is shortening the timeline for Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to a truce with Ukraine, warning that failure to do so could lead to economic consequences. The move marks a significant escalation in pressure on Moscow to end the ongoing conflict. Im going to make a new deadline of about 10, 10 or 12 days from today, Trump told reporters in Scotland on Monday during talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as reported by Bloomberg. Ill announce it probably tonight or tomorrow, Trump added. But theres no reason to wait. If you know what the answer is, expressing frustration with Putin for rebuffing previous calls for a ceasefire. An end to the conflict has proven elusive for the American president, who as a candidate promised to quickly resolve the Russia-Ukraine war as well as the one between Israel and Hamas. Trump has announced his ultimatum to Putin, initially setting a 50-day deadline on July 14 set to expire on September 2, to halt the war in Ukraine or face severe economic sanctions. With no progress made and Russian missile and drone attacks intensifying, Trump has now signalled a shorter timeline. The Kremlin has yet to respond publicly to the updated deadline. Following Trump's announcement, the Russian ruble fell over 2%, dropping below 81 per US dollarits weakest point since mid-May, Bloomberg reported. Oil prices also climbed amid concerns that escalating U.S.-Russia tensions could disrupt global crude supplies. What Im doing is were going to do secondary sanctions, unless we make a deal, and we might make a deal, I dont know, Trump added Monday. Trump has intensified pressure on Putin, expressing growing frustration over stalled efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Im not so interested in talking any more, Trump said Monday. He talks. We have such nice conversations, such respectful and nice conversations, and then people die the following night with a missile going into a town. Trump, who returned to office pledging a swift resolution to the conflict, has seen no progress, as Moscow continues to demand extensive territorial concessions and refuses direct negotiations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Earlier this month, Trump said he would impose 100% tariffs on Russia if it did not halt the fighting. Officials have cast secondary levies that would fall on countries who buy Russian exports such as oil. Washington and other capitals allied with Kyiv view such oil purchases as a form of tacit support for Russia, helping to bolster its economy and undercut sanctions. Im going to make a new deadline of about 10, 10 or 12 days from today. Trump, though, has threatened economic repercussions against Putin in the past but held off, suggesting that he wanted to preserve room for negotiations. (With inputs from Bloomberg) In a major aviation scare, a United Airlines Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for Munich was forced to declare a Mayday shortly after take-off from Washington, following a failure in its left engine. The flight, operating under the callsign UA108, issued the emergency alert on July 25 at an altitude of around 5,000 feet. The pilots promptly informed air traffic control and initiated emergency procedures to return to the airport safely. According to data from FlightAware, the aircraft remained in the air for 2 hours and 38 minutes after the distress signal was sent. This incident comes just a month after a tragic crash involving an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The aircraft, en route to Londons Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after take-off, killing around 260 people. It was the first fatal accident involving the Dreamliner model. Flight UA108 Declares Mayday After Engine Trouble Shortly After Take-Off United Airlines flight UA108 issued a Mayday alert after its left engine failed at around 5,000 feet, shortly after take-off. The pilots informed air traffic control and began emergency steps to return safely to the airport. According to FlightAware, the aircraft stayed in the air for 2 hours and 38 minutes after the Mayday call was made. FlightAware also said the plane circled northwest of Washington in a holding pattern to dump fuel safely before landing back at Washington Dulles Airport. This incident with the United Airlines flight came just days after another emergency involving an American Airlines flight at Denver International Airport. On Saturday, passengers on board AA Flight 3023 were evacuated using emergency slides after smoke was reported in the cabin. The Boeing 737 MAX 8, which was headed to Miami, experienced what the FAA described as a possible landing gear incident. American Airlines later said it was due to an aircraft tyre issue. North Korea has stated that the relationship between its leader, Kim Jong Un, and US President Donald Trump remains not bad, but warned Washington against trying to use that to achieve denuclearisation. In a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency on Tuesday, Kim Yo Jong the sister of leader Kim said the US should start acknowledging the Norths radically changed capabilities and that Pyongyang is open to any option to defend its national interest, Bloomberg reported. I do not want to deny the fact that the personal relationship between the head of our state and the present US president is not bad, she said. But Kim added, It is worth taking into account the fact that the year 2025 is neither 2018 nor 2019. She dismissed the US intent to resume diplomacy on North Korea's denuclearisation, saying Tuesday the North flatly opposes any attempt to deny its position as a nuclear weapons state. If it is used for that purpose, "it can be interpreted as nothing but a mockery of the other party," she said, urging the United States to recognise the North as a nuclear weapons state. Trump's attempt to mend relations with North Korea During Trumps first term as U.S. President, he met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un three times, but the talks failed to convince Kim to halt progress on his nuclear weapons program. Since then, North Korea has rejected further dialogue with the United States and has aligned itself closely with Russian President Vladimir Putin, backing his war in Ukraine. Since starting his second term in January, Trump has frequently highlighted his personal relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and voiced interest in reviving nuclear talks. However, their earlier diplomatic efforts in 20182019 fell apart over disagreements concerning U.S.-led sanctions. In the years since, Kim has conducted a series of provocative weapons tests aimed at modernising and expanding North Koreas nuclear arsenal. North Korea's stance Any attempt to deny the position of the DPRK as a nuclear weapons state which was established along with the existence of a powerful nuclear deterrent and fixed by the supreme law reflecting the unanimous will of all the DPRK people will be thoroughly rejected, she said, referring to her country by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. She said she was responding to reported comments by a U.S. official that Trump is still open to talks with Kim Jong Un on the North's complete denuclearisation. She likely was referring to a Saturday article by Yonhap news agency that cited an unidentified White House official as saying that Trump remains open to engaging with Leader Kim to achieve a fully denuclearised North Korea. If the U.S. fails to accept the changed reality and persists in the failed past, the DPRK-U.S. meeting will remain as a hope' of the U.S. side, Kim Yo Jong said, as reported by AP. Her comments suggested complete denuclearisation won't be up for negotiation. Experts earlier said North Korea would only be interested in talks on a partial surrender of its nuclear capability in return for sanctions relief and other benefits, a tactic that could allow North Korea to retain some of its key nuclear weapons after winning what it wants from the U.S. The Trump-Kim talks ultimately collapsed after President Trump refused Kim Jong Uns offer to dismantle his main nuclear complex in exchange for broad sanctions relief a move the U.S. viewed as insufficient for full denuclearisation. Any attempt to deny the position of the DPRK as a nuclear weapons state... will be thoroughly rejected. On Monday, Kim Yo Jong, the sister of Kim Jong Un, dismissed outreach efforts by South Koreas new liberal government, criticising its blind trust in the U.S. alliance and continued hostility toward the North. Her remarks suggest that Pyongyang, now focused on deepening ties with Russia, has little interest in resuming talks with Seoul shortly. Analysts believe she may also be attempting to weaken the alliance between South Korea and the United States, AP reported. US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (July 29) clarified that he has no intention of pursuing a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, but said he may visit China if formally invited. I may go to China, but it would only be at the invitation of President Xi, which has been extended. Otherwise, no interest! Trump said in a post on Truth Social. Trump and Xi last spoke by phone in June. Following the call, both leaders reportedly invited each other to visit. If Trumps visit materializes, it would mark their first face-to-face meeting since Trumps return to the presidency in January. Trade talks conclude in Sweden Meanwhile, US-China trade negotiations concluded in Stockholm after two days of closed-door meetings. The third round of talks between the two economic giants is seen as a key step toward easing ongoing trade tensions. China backs tariff truce extension Speaking at a press conference after the talks, Chinese Vice Commerce Minister Li Chenggang said Beijing wants the existing tariff truce with Washington to continue. The current agreement has capped tariffs at 30% on Chinese goods entering the US. We believe the current arrangement has helped maintain stability in bilateral trade. China supports its extension, Li said, without specifying a timeline. Trump had previously extended the truce by 90 days. US yet to commit to extension US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer confirmed that the pause in tariff hikes was under discussion, but emphasised that no final decision had been made. Greer told reporters that he and Secretary Bessent will brief President Trump once they return to Washington, but ultimately, its the presidents call. US President Donald Trumps latest move to shorten the timeline for a ceasefire agreement in Ukraine has drawn sharply contrasting reactions from Kyiv and Moscow. While Ukrainian leaders welcomed the increased pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin, top Russian officials issued stern warnings, framing the move as a provocation. Russia reacts with caution, warnings The Kremlin offered a cautious initial response. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters Tuesday that Russia had taken note of Trumps statement, but said the Kremlin would refrain from commenting further. I would like to avoid any assessments, Peskov said. However, Dmitry Medvedev, Russias former president and current deputy chairman of the Security Council, responded sharply, accusing Trump of risking escalation. Trumps playing the ultimatum game with Russia: 50 days or 10, Medvedev wrote on X. He should remember two things: 1. Russia isnt Israel or even Iran. 2. Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country. Medvedev a known hardliner in Putins inner circle warned against following the Sleepy Joe road, in a reference to President Joe Biden, whom Trump frequently criticizes. Ukraine backs Trumps tougher stance Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised Trumps decision to reduce the previously announced 50-day negotiating window to just 1012 days, calling it a clear stance made at the right moment. Clear stance and expressed determination by POTUS right on time, when a lot can change through strength for real peace, Zelensky wrote on X. He added, I thank President Trump for his focus on saving lives and stopping this horrible war, reaffirming Ukraines readiness to work with the US to pursue peace and shared security. Andriy Yermak, Zelenskys chief of staff, also expressed support, posting on Telegram: Putin only understands strength and this has been communicated clearly and loudly. Trump sets new ultimatum Speaking during a visit to the UK on Monday (July 28), Trump said he was very disappointed in Putin and saw no signs of progress toward a ceasefire. He announced a new, shortened deadline for action. Im going to make a new deadline of about 10 or 12 days from today, Trump said. Theres no reason in waiting. I want to be generous, but we just don't see any progress being made. Earlier this month, Trump had set a 50-day deadline for Russia to accept a ceasefire, warning that failure to do so would trigger severe economic retaliation including secondary sanctions targeting countries still doing business with Moscow. The news on Israels main TV channel had just finished a segment on how hunger in Gaza is portrayed around the world when the anchor looked up and said: Maybe its finally time to acknowledge that this isnt a public relations failure, but a moral one. Whether or not it was a Walter Cronkite moment, when the US broadcaster declared on live TV in 1968 that the Vietnam War was unwinnable a turning point in public opinion it seemed significant in a country thats been steadfast in its defense of the war against Hamas in Gaza for 22 months. There are other indications from WhatsApp group chats to new reports by Israeli human rights organizations that the mood is shifting away from a robust embrace of the conflict. Some commentators are announcing a change of heart about the war, triggered when Hamas militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and abducting 250. The subsequent Israeli offensive has killed nearly 60,000 people, according to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry, and left much of the Palestinian territory in ruins. The United Nations World Food Program has warned for weeks that Gazas population of more than 2 million people faces crisis levels of food insecurity, with scores of aid groups reporting widespread starvation. After the massacre, it was imperative to strike at Hamas with all our might, even at the cost of civilian casualties, wrote Nahum Barnea, a columnist for centrist newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth. But the damage in military casualties, Israels international standing and civilian casualties is growing worse. Hamas is to blame, but Israel is responsible. Sherwin Pomerantz, who runs an economic consulting group, wrote in the conservative Jerusalem Post: What was a just war two years ago is now an unjust war and must be ended. The shift in Israeli sentiment is reflected in a pile-up of bad news: Hamas still holds hostages in Gaza and remains a military force, soldiers continue to die, Israelis abroad are shunned, even attacked, and now scenes of starving children are shown across global media. US President Donald Trump, a fervent defender of Israel, even weighed in, saying this week he didnt agree with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus assertion there is no starvation in Gaza. Thats real starvation stuff, I see it, and you cant fake that, Trump said in Scotland on Monday. There havent been any recent polls published in Israel related to the war. One in May showed 65% of Israelis unconcerned about humanitarian conditions in Gaza. But until this past week, little of the destruction and death there appeared in Israeli media. Now the issue of hunger dominates news coverage. Other shifts in public discourse are noticeable. Human rights lawyers abroad have been accusing Israel of war crimes and genocidal intent in Gaza since just after the war started charges the vast majority of Israelis have rejected. For the first time, two Israeli human rights groups are now using the term genocide for whats happening BTselem and Physicians for Human Rights Israel. Also on Monday, the presidents of five Israeli universities wrote an open letter to Netanyahu urging him to intensify efforts to address the severe hunger crisis currently afflicting the Gaza Strip. Like many Israelis, we are horrified by the scenes from Gaza, including infants dying every day from hunger and disease, they wrote. As a people who endured the horrors of the Holocaust, we also bear a responsibility to use every means at our disposal to prevent cruel and indiscriminate harm to innocent men, women and children. Yair Lapid, head of Israels main opposition party, gave a fiery speech this week describing the war as a disaster and a failure and calling on Netanyahu to end it and eliminate Hamas through cooperation with regional powers. After ceasefire talks stalled again last week, a new effort is under way to revive negotiations with Hamas, designated a terrorist organization by the US and others. Theres growing commentary in mainstream media declaring Hamas defeated, making an end to the war easier to accept. Theres also pushback to the starvation narrative. Israeli military authorities said, without additional evidence, that one photo of a skeletal boy published on front pages around the world was a child with a genetic disease that makes his bones protrude, and that hed been evacuated from Gaza more than a month ago. In addition, the military has distributed photos purported to be of Hamas operatives surrounded by food and looking healthy. And, so far, Netanyahu has shown no sign of shifting policy. We are fighting a just war, a moral war, a war for our survival, he said in a statement on Monday. No country in the world would allow the continued rule in a neighboring territory of a terror group bent on its destruction that already stormed across its borders in a genocidal attack. Well continue to act responsibly, as we always have, and well continue to seek the return of our hostages and the defeat of Hamas, he said. That is the only way to secure peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike. With assistance from Gina Turner. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. As transactions have grown increasingly digital, service providers rarely (if ever) come face-to-face with their customers. This means that without reliable means of authentication, they have no way to ensure that the products and services they sell actually end up in the hands of those who bought them. One way to address this would be to insist on multiple factors of authentication. In practical terms, this means that in addition to proving who you are in reference to something you know (such as a PIN or a password), you would also be required to do so with reference to something you have (such as a hardware token or a mobile device) or something you are (such as a fingerprint or another biometric identifier). Also Read: Andy Mukherjee: Digital payments competition could police bank fraud in India In India, the most widely used additional form of authentication is the one-time password (OTP), a number sequence sent to your mobile phone (since this is something you have) to validate that you are who you say you are. There are many reasons why these are preferred. OTPs are only valid for a single session, which means that an attacker who gains access to one will not be able to reuse it, and, since it has limited validity, has just a small window within which to misuse it. Today, OTPs are used for all sorts of purposes. Delivery boys insist on them before handing over a parcel and ride-hailing apps need one to start a ride. Given their widespread use (and perhaps because of it), malicious actors are going to extraordinary lengths to find ways to exploit them. Some register for services using old or recycled SIMs so that they can obtain OTPs to access the previous users account. Others use OTP application programming interfaces (APIs) to flood users with OTPs, which can serve as a way to perpetrate denial-of-service attacks or mask other fraudulent activity. Also Read: Banking on trust, losing billions: Indias bank fraud epidemic needs urgent answers Last week, to curb some of these illicit uses, the Indian government proposed a set of changes to Indias Telecom Cyber Security Rules. They intend to establish a government-run real-time platform that validates whether a mobile number is active, recently re-issued or swapped, and linked to the same subscriber profile recorded by the telecom company. This, the government hopes, will help prevent impersonation through SIM reuse, SIM swaps and spoofing. The Cyber Security Rules will apply to all organizations that use telecom identifiers to authenticate users or deliver services. For this purpose, it has created a new category of regulated entities called Telecommunication Identifier User Entities (TIUEs), defined in terms so broad that they cover over-the-top platforms, fintech firms, e-commerce service providers, edtech platforms and just about any entity that provides digital services. TIUEs have to follow the same cybersecurity protocols as other licensed operators, including risk assessment, incident reporting and data security. In the event of misuse, the government will have the power to temporarily suspend the use of a given telecom identifier or suspend its use for the identification of customers/users or delivery of services. It could even permanently disconnect it. Also Read: Rahul Matthan: Brace for a wave of AI-enabled criminal enterprise While the Centres efforts at cracking down on OTP abuse are appreciable, I worry that the solution it has come up with exceeds its authority. The Telecommunications Act of 2023 applies to entities that provide telecom services or operate telecom networks and equipment. In creating a new category of regulated entities called TIUEs, its amendments extend the governments authority to just about any organization that uses telecom services as part of its business. This is far in excess of what the Act permits. Today, OTPs are used across a range of sectors. The Reserve Bank of India has permitted the use of Aadhaar-based OTPs for e-KYC and has authorized the use of OTPs for card-not-present transactions, UPI, net-banking, wallets and recurring e-mandates. The National Health Authority frequently uses OTPs for the creation of health IDs, consent management and access to health information. All the entities that use OTPs for these purposes are regulated by existing regulators and have to abide by a detailed set of obligations that set out how OTP authentication needs to be carried out. If these amendments to the cybersecurity rules come into force, they will additionally be forced to comply with the instructions of the telecom regulator. This will give rise to confusion and regulatory uncertainty, increase their burden of compliance and force businesses to implement measures that may be improperly aligned with the objectives of the different regulators they have to obey. Also Read: Vivek Kaul: Fast thinking is the great enabler of digital fraud There are also practical consequences of this approach that the government may not have fully thought through. Given how broadly it has been defined, tens of thousands of entities will likely qualify as TIUEs and will have to integrate their services with the mobile number validation (MNV) platform. This will create a centralized log of OTP usage, offering cross-sectoral intelligence on user behaviour of unprecedented magnitude. This will probably become a honeypot for cybersecurity attacks and data breaches that could put us all at risk. Regardless of the ideas intention, it will also likely be viewed as a form of surveillance that is neither proportionate nor warrantedand thus an instance of regulatory overreach. While OTP misuse is a problem, all we need to do is tighten SIM re-issuance procedures and mandate fraud reporting. Over-broad solutions can end up eroding the very trust they seek to preserve. The author is a partner at Trilegal and the author of The Third Way: Indias Revolutionary Approach to Data Governance. His X handle is @matthan. In a world where change is said to be the only constant, its good to know that some things do not change. The Reserve Bank of Indias (RBI) long-held policy of keeping corporates out of banking, for instance. There is no proposal to allow corporates, either directly or through non-banking finance companies, to obtain banking licences," said RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra last week. He cited an inherent conflict of interest with a group actually dealing with the money of depositors." So there we have itspelt out in clear terms by none other than the chief of Indias bank licensing authority. Hopefully, this enunciation of RBIs position will deliver respite from a notable reality ever since the sector was opened to new entrants: incessant lobbying by corporate houses eager to open banks. Also Read: Well done, RBI, stay firm on bank licences In 2020, it may be recalled, RBI had released the report of an internal working group tasked with reviewing the extant ownership guidelines for private banks and their corporate structure. The groups advice was that large corporate or industrial houses may be allowed to act as bank promoters only after necessary amendments were made to the Banking Regulation Act of 1949 to prevent connected lending in particular and the exposure of such banks to other group entities, financial or non-financial, in general; plus, the sectors supervisory mechanism had to be strengthened first. Neither has happened. Although RBI has been tightening supervision, it is nowhere near fool-proof. We have also not seen any movement on another key recommendation of that report: that a non-operative financial holding company structure be preferred for all new licences issued for universal banks. Wisely, RBI has maintained the status quo on corporate entry. Also Read: Banking on trust, losing billions: Indias bank fraud epidemic needs urgent answers The argument that Indias banking sector is small relative to its GDP in comparison with other countries in its peer group and we must therefore let corporations start banks is not persuasive. Other sources of finance such as equity, corporate bonds and loans from non-bank financial companies have emerged in a big way in recent years. Moreover, India is not the only country that bars corporations from banking. In the US, for example, commercial enterprises are not allowed to own banksin line with the principle of keeping banking and commerce apart. The same rationale applies here too. Also Read: G.N. Bajpai: Indias banking industry needs a complete organizational revamp While safeguards exist, such as a stipulated cap on the stake of promoters as a percentage of the banks paid-up equity capital eligible for voting (26% currently), the reality is that rules designed to prevent concentration of control can be circumvented. We can never be too careful when it comes to ensuring the safety of public savings and securing peoples trust in the banking system, which serves as the bedrock of a modern economy. And that requires two conditions to be fulfilled: One, ownership should be wide and diversified; and two, there must be no scope for conflicts of interest. Sure, we could do with more and larger banks. But, as the working group report noted back in 2020, capital has not been a constraint for private banks. With the Indian economy averaging an annual growth rate of 7.2% in the past three years, that position has only changed for the better. Public sector banks are better placed too. State Bank of Indias recent qualified institutional placement aimed to raise 25,000 crore but attracted bids of 1.12 trillion, 64% of it from foreign investors. This suggests that our banking sector is doing quite well, thank you, without the entry of corporate houses. Congress MP Manish Tewari appeared to take a subtle swipe at his own party after he and fellow MP Shashi Tharoor were excluded from the list of speakers for the Parliament discussion on Operation Sindoor. Notably, both Tewari and Tharoor had been part of the government's all-party delegations that travelled abroad to rally international support against Pakistans backing of terrorism in the wake of the operation. In a cryptic post on X (formerly Twitter), Manish Tiwari posted few lines from Bharat Ka Rahnewala Hoon song sung by Mahendra Kapoor from the album Purab Aur Pachhim (1970). In his post, the Anandpur Sahib MP shared a screenshot of a news report of him and Shashi Tharoor being snubbed for the Operation Sindoor debate, which kicked off on Monday. "Hai preet jahaan ki reet sada Main geet wahaan ke gaata hoon Bharat ka rehne waala hoon Bharat ki baat sunata hoon", the Congress MP posted. Later in front of the parliament, when asked by reporters, the Congress MP harped on the lines of silence, as was cited by Tharoor and said, There is a saying in English- 'If you don't understand my silences, you will never understand my words'. According to a report in The Indian Express, Manish Tewari had expressed a clear interest in participating in the Operation Sindoor debate and had even written to the party leadership requesting to speak. Despite this, the Congress party chose not to include him among its designated speakers. Congress MP Amar Singh, who was part of the delegation, was also not picked by the Congress to speak in the debate. Shashi Tharoor Snubbed by Congress? Congress party officials in the know on Monday said the party had asked Shashi Tharoor if he was interested in speaking during the Operation Sindoor debate in Parliament but he declined and instead expressed a desire to speak on The Indian Ports Bill, 2025, reported news agency PTI. There has been intense speculation on whether Shashi Tharoor, who led the Mission Sindoor delegation to the US among other countries, will be picked as a speaker by the Congress given that his enthusiastic endorsement of the Narendra Modi government's action following the terror attack has soured his ties with the party. Shashi Tharoor is understood to have conveyed to the party leadership that he had consistently described Operation Sindoor as a success during his international engagements and could not now contradict that position for the sake of political messaging. When questioned by reporters on whether he would address Parliament on the matter, Shashi Tharoor took a subtle swipe at his party, remarking that he was currently observing a maun vrata vow of silence. Operation Sindoor Debate in Parliament The BJP-led ruling National Democratic Alliance and opposition parties are fielding their top guns for the Operation SIndoor debate in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Opposition parties have framed their public criticism of the government around alleged intelligence lapses behind the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which left 26 civilians killed, and US President Donald Trump's claims of mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Rahul Gandhi has repeatedly attacked the government's foreign policy, claiming that India did not receive international support on Operation Sindoor and has cited Trump's frequent mediation claims to target the ruling alliance. The government has rejected Trump's claims. Congress leaders Shashi Tharoor and Manish Tewari, who were part of the delegations India sent abroad to highlight its stand against cross-border terrorism, would not be among Congress speakers during the debate on Operation Sindoor in Lok Sabha that began on Monday, news agency ANI said, quoting sources. While Manish Tewari had sent a request to the party to speak during the debate, Tharoor apparently conveyed unwillingness, as his stance during the visit abroad of the delegation would be at variance with the party's strong stance against the government on aspects related to the military operation to hit target infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Also Read | PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah to address Lok Sabha today Defence Minister Rajnath Singh began the special discussion on 'Operation Sindoor', India's military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The debate continued until midnight on Monday and will resume today at 11 AM. Among the Congress leaders who were part of the delegations were former Union ministers Salman Khurshid and Anand Sharma. Khurshid and Sharma are not MPs. The Congress did not pick Tharoor and Tewari to speak in the debate. BJP MP Baijayant Jay Panda took a dig at the Congress, saying the party is not allowing its own member and noted orator Shashi Tharoor to speak in Lok Sabha. The Congress party approached Tharoor through Gaurav Gogoi and MP Kodikunnil Suresh, but he declined. Instead, Tharoor expressed a desire to speak on the Indian Ports Bill, 2025, the Indian Express reported. Rahul Gandhi, who is the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, is likely to speak today in the Lok Sabha during the debate. Earlier in the day, Tharoor gave a cryptic reply when asked if he would take part in the debate."Maunvrat, maunvrat," Tharoor told reporters. India carried out Operation Sindoor on early on May 7 in response to April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and carried out precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK. India repelled subsequent Pakistani aggression and pounded its airbases. Opposition parties have framed their public criticism of the government around alleged intelligence lapses behind the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which left 26 civilians killed, and US President Donald Trump's claims of mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan after the four-day military action that ended on May 10. Tharoor, a Congress MP from Kerala and a former Union Minister, has, with his remarks, seemingly riled his party for showing support for the Narendra Modi government over recent military actions across the border in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) during Operation Sindoor. Some Congress leaders even accused Tharoor of being a super spokesperson for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. On June 10, Tharoor called his meeting with Prime Minister Modigood, lively and informal. PM Modi met the members of the all-party delegations of Operation Sindoor at his residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, in New Delhi. "The discussion with the PM was only on matters related to the MPs' delegation. When an issue arises for the nation, it is our responsibility to stand with the nation. When the nation needs my service, I am always ready," Tharoor said after meeting PM Modi. Donald Trumps decision to sharply curtail a deadline for Vladimir Putin to halt his war in Ukraine is being met by silence in the Kremlin so far, though analysts say it wont pressure the Russian president into changing course. The US president threatened Monday to impose sanctions within 10-12 days on countries buying Russian exports including energy unless Putin accepts a ceasefire, instead of the 50 days he announced earlier this month. Theres no reason to wait. If you know what the answer is, Trump said, voicing frustration at Putins repeated rejection of his calls for a truce. Russia will respond very diplomatically and point out that setting specific deadlines does not, by itself, encourage the negotiation process, Sergei Markov, a Moscow-based political consultant close to the Kremlin, said on Telegram. But Russias actual response to Trumps ultimatum will be the same as it has been to all ultimatums for the past 500 years: Get lost! Go to hell! While maintaining relations with Trump is important for Putin, the Russian leader has no desire to stop, and even more so under pressure, said Moscow-based political analyst Andrei Kolesnikov. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, whos now deputy chairman of the countys security council, said Trump was playing the ultimatum game and warned it was a step towards war between Russia and the US. Markets responded more nervously. The ruble continued to weaken on Tuesday, passing 82 per dollar in early trading, after it declined by nearly 3% in the wake of Trumps remarks to the lowest since mid-May. Oil prices climbed, amid concerns over potential disruptions in Russian oil supplies or increased costs from rerouted flows. The Brent benchmark was trading near $70 a barrel after closing 2.3% higher in the previous session, the biggest increase in two weeks. Russia is a top-three global oil producer after the US and Saudi Arabia, exporting more than 3 million barrels a day by sea alone, and supplies crude to such major consumers as India and China. Any significant disruptions in Russian flows in the near future would require a ramp-up in supplies from other major producers and rerouting of existing barrels, just as the global market remains tight amid robust summer demand. Trump returned to the White House in January after campaigning on a pledge to bring a swift end to the war thats now in its fourth year. His frustration mounted, however, after six publicly announced phone calls with Putin produced no progress on a ceasefire. Russia also intensified missile and drone attacks on Ukraine in recent weeks, adding to US perceptions that Putin was intent on continuing the war. Trump said Monday that Im not so interested in talking any more to Putin. We have such nice conversations, such respectful and nice conversations, and then people die the following night, he told reporters during a visit to Scotland. Still, Russian media reflected skepticism in Moscow that Trump will follow through on his threat to impose sanctions after he repeatedly put off decisions on acting against Putin. Russian officials viewed the original 50-day deadline as another postponement that allowed Moscows forces a window to intensify fighting on the battlefield and seize more territory in Ukraine at the height of the summer fighting season. For some reason, Trump believes thats hes an arbitrator and can issue ultimatums, senior Russian lawmaker Vladimir Dzhabarov told the Izvestia newspaper. But ultimatums are usually issued to the losing side, which Russia isnt. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Opposition MPs of the INDIA bloc staged a protest at the Makar Dwar of Parliament on Tuesday, ahead of the day's proceedings, to mount pressure on the Centre against the Election Commission's Special Intensive Exercise (SIR) in poll-bound Bihar. The members protested in Rajya Sabha where the procedings were adjourned till 2 PM on Tuesday. Also Read | PM Modi, Amit Shah likely to speak in Lok Sabha tomorrow The opposition is continuously raising questions over transparency and the verification process in the ongoing SIR in Bihar. Earlier on Monday, both houses of parliament were adjourned several times amid sloganeering by Opposition members demanding a discussion on the ongoing SIR in poll-bound Bihar, as well as other issues of public importance. Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Monday criticised the Opposition for disrupting the start of a debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha, accusing them of making a "U-turn". Rijiju addressed reporters after both the houses of Parliament got adjourned for the second time amid sloganeering by Opposition members demanding a discussion on the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in poll-bound Bihar. "Opposition has made a U-turn. This will not work. After half an hour, Parliament proceedings will resume. The Defence Minister will open the debate. I urge everyone to listen to him. No Opposition party should speak the language of Pakistan," Rijiju told reporters outside Parliament. He further said that the opposition is demanding a commitment from the government to discuss the SIR exercise in Bihar after the deliberation concludes on Operation Sindoor. Rijiju added, "We were all ready for the discussion. 10 minutes before the discussion had to start, the Opposition came up with their agenda that the government should give a line of commitment that, after this, the issue of SIR would be discussed. To bring in a condition just 10 minutes before the discussion is not right." He also questioned why the Opposition was "running away" from a debate and resorting to disruption instead. Why are the Congress and Opposition now running away from discussion on Operation Sindoor? He asked, Why are the Congress and Opposition now running away from discussion on Operation Sindoor? Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said no world leader asked India to stop its military action against Pakistan during 'Operation Sindoor' after four days of conflict in May in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. In his address to the Lok Sabha, which lasted about 100 minutes, Modi lamented that while the nation received support from across the world, the Congress and its allies could not support the valour of the nation's soldiers. No country in the world has stopped India from any action in its defence against terrorism. Only three countries spoke in favour of Pakistan at the UN, Modi said. The prime minister's remarks come amid US President Donald Trump's repeated claims that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during the strikes. India has consistently denied Trump's assertions. PM Modi, while refuting the US President's claims, said that the US Vice President JD Vance had called him many times. I missed US Vice President's calls. And when I called him back he said Pakistan is planning a major attack. And I told him if Pakistan attacks India, our attack would be much bigger as we will respond to bullets with cannons, Modi said in the speech in Lok Sabha. PM Modi took a dig at the Opposition leaders and accused them of trying to make headlines in the media but failing to win peoples hearts. He also mentioned that a lot was said here on Indias foreign policy. "There were discussions on global support too...We received global support. But unfortunately, the valour of the brave jawans of my country did not get the support of Congress," Modi said. India got support from the entire world, but it is unfortunate that the Congress did not support the valour of our soldiers, the prime minister said Rahul dares PM Modi Earlier speaking in Lok Sabha, Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to publicly call US President Donald Trump a liar for claiming credit for brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan following the tensions sparked by the Pahalgam terror attack. .he [PM Modi] must deny in Lok Sabha that Trump is a 'liar' and we did not lose any planes, Rahul Gandhi said, adding, It is a very dangerous time and we cannot afford a prime minister who doesn't know how to use the Army. We cannot afford a prime minister who doesn't have the guts to say from here that Donald Trump is a liar." Drawing a historic parallel, the Congress leader added, In 1971, when the Seventh Fleet was heading toward India, Indira Gandhi told General Manekshaw to take six months or even a year-whatever he needed. Thats called freedom of action. Thats what real political will looks like. All Pahalgam Terror Attack terrorists killed: Shah Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday noon that all three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 were neutralised during Operation Mahadev on the outskirts of Srinagar on Monday. Twenty-six civilians were killed in the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, after which India retaliated through precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK). Also Read | Parliament LIVE: PM Modi speaks on Operation Sindoor in Lok Sabha News / National by Staff reporter The Harare City Council (HCC) has launched a sweeping operation to shut down non-compliant businesses across the capital, as part of an aggressive campaign to enforce municipal by-laws and recover outstanding rates.The blitz, which commenced on July 28, 2025, is targeting commercial entities operating without valid licenses or those in arrears with the local authority. Council officials say the initiative is aimed at restoring order within Harare's commercial landscape and strengthening revenue collection efforts essential for improved service delivery.According to city officials, the crackdown follows multiple warnings issued in June to businesses found flouting council regulations. Enforcement teams have since moved through the Central Business District (CBD), industrial zones, and selected residential suburbs, inspecting compliance and issuing closure orders to violators."The operation is a necessary step in our broader efforts to ensure orderly urban governance and accountability," said an HCC spokesperson. "For far too long, non-compliance has undermined council operations, service delivery, and the city's financial stability. We are now taking firm action."The council says it will continue to monitor the city in the coming weeks to ensure adherence to licensing regulations and payment of dues. Businesses that settle their arrears and regularize their operations will be allowed to reopen, while persistent defaulters risk legal action.The clampdown comes as Harare faces mounting pressure to improve waste management, water provision, and road maintenance - all of which are tied to the council's ability to collect revenue efficiently.Residents and business associations have expressed mixed reactions. While some applaud the council's decisive action, others have called for more dialogue and support mechanisms to help struggling small businesses comply without being forced to shut down.Nonetheless, the HCC has reaffirmed its commitment to uphold the rule of law and create a fair and orderly commercial environment in the capital. Audrey Crews, a recipient of Elon Musk-owned Neuralink's brain chip implant celebrated being able to write her name for the first time in 20 years due to the device. In a series of posts, including text, photo and video ones on social media site X (formerly known as Twitter, and also owned by Elon Musk), Crews showed her telepathically written name, and in subsequent posts also took requests from fellow social media users. Responding to the viral post on X, Elon Musk wrote: She is controlling her computer just by thinking. Most people dont realize this is possible. Here's her story Writing for first time in 20 years I tried writing my name for the first time in 20 years. Im working on it. Lol #Neuralink wrote Crews, a photo attached of her telepathic written name displayed on her laptop's notes app. She also posted a video on July 27, stating: Working on my accuracy and speed. Watch video: First woman in the world to do this She followed it up with an explainatory post for interested netizens, writing: Here's more information about how my BCI, brain computer interface, implant works and my surgery. Crews said she had the surgery last week and everything is going amazing. On the process she said that it involved drilling a hole in her skull and placing 128 threads into her brain's motor cortex. It was brain surgery, they drilled a hole in my skull and placed 128 threads into my motor cortex. The chip is about the size of a quarter. The staff of University of Miami Health Center were awesome. They treated me like a VIP and are some of the sweetest people I've ever met, she added. According to Crews, the implant enables her to use the computer using her mind, and will gradually be expanded to other electronic devices. The BCI lets me control my computer using my mind. I'll be able to control more electronic devices in the near future. I also want to clarify this implant will not allow me to walk again or regain movement. Its strictly for telepathy only. We are still in Miami but I'll be home soon and we'll post more vids explaining the proses in more detail. I am the first women in the world to do this, she added. Just a normal day using telepathy Engaging with curious and fascinated netizens, Crews began taking doodle requests in her comments and posting the results online. Here are some more of my doodles! Im taking request. Lol Imagine your pointer finger is left click and the cursor moment is with your wrist. With out physically doing it. Just a normal day using telepathy, she explained. Amid uncertainty over tariff negotiations with China, there has been a significant rise in Made in India smartphones exported to the US. According to a new report by Canalys, the share of US smartphone shipments assembled in China declined significantly from 61% in Q2 2024 to 25% in Q2 2025. Meanwhile, the report also notes a sharp rise in India-made smartphone shipments to the US, registering a 240% year-on-year growth and now accounting for 44% of total shipments imported into the country, up from just 13% a year earlier. Sanyam Chaurasia, Principal Analyst at Canalys, attributed the rise in Made-in-India smartphone exports largely to Apples accelerated supply chain shift to the country. India became the leading manufacturing hub for smartphones sold in the US for the very first time in Q2 2025, largely driven by Apples accelerated supply chain shift to India amid an uncertain trade landscape between the US and China, Chaurasia said in a blog post. Apple has scaled up its production capacity in India over the last several years as part of its China Plus One strategy and has opted to dedicate most of its export capacity in India to supply the US market so far in 2025. Apple has begun manufacturing and assembling Pro models of the iPhone 16 series in India but is still dependent on established manufacturing bases in China for the scaled supply needed for Pro models in the US, he added. Chaurasia further noted that Samsung and Motorola have also increased their share of US-targeted supply from India, although their moves are significantly slower and smaller in scale compared to Apples. Notably, Motorola still has its main manufacturing hub in China, while Samsung mostly relies on Vietnam for smartphone production. After months of turbulence, the Trump administration recently reversed its export restrictions on Nvidias H20 chip, which it had enacted just a few months prior, citing national security concerns. Once the government approves its export licenses, Nvidia will resume shipping the H20 chip to Chinese buyers. In the past, Chinese companies, such as DeepSeek, have used Nvidias export-controlled chips to improve their AI models. The H20 chip is specifically optimized for AI inference. The administration is framing its decision to undo its national security controls as part of a broader trade strategy, one in which semiconductors and AI applications are part of complex deals" to benefit U.S. companies and the country. But the lack of clarity on what these chip sales will actually accomplishand the obvious national security risks of deepening semiconductor business ties in China, including the funneling of chips into Beijings security apparatusmean this short-term win" is likely to become a longer-term security misstep. Officials are defending the export control reversal by saying that Nvidia can sell H20 chipsbut nothing more sensitive. We dont sell [China] our best stuff, not our second-best," Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick asserted. David Sacks, the White Houses AI and crypto czar, has also argued that allowing Nvidia to sell H20 chips in China would undercut its competitor Huaweis ability to gain market share. Those arguments, however, assume H20s arent too dangerouseven in the wrong hands. The chairman of the House Select Committee on China, Rep. John Moolenaar (R.,-Mich.), made this point in a letter to the administration, in which he argued that the H20 is a powerful AI inference chip that far surpasses Chinas indigenous capability. Sacks argument implies that H20s will increase Chinese capabilities: If Nvidias H20s will steal market share from Huawei, then it is presumably a superior product than what Huawei offers. Chinas huge market will be tempting for Nvidia, and the pressure to sell more products will grow. Nvidias chief executive, Jensen Huang, said so himself at a Beijing press conference. I hope to get more advanced chips into China than the H20," Huang said. And the administrations flip-flopping on chip export controls underscores how its threshold for what is considered too risky" can easily shift, regardless of whether the security picture actually changes. H20 sales to China today could quite plausibly become sales of even more advanced chips tomorrow. The H20 reversal echoes another area where the White House granted risky chip sales in favour of trade deals: the Middle East. In recent years, the U.S. scrutinized the United Arab Emirates for its AI collaboration with Chinese entities. But in June, the Trump administration struck an agreement with the UAE that paved a way for U.S. companies to sell Emirati AI firms hundreds of thousands of chips. The U.S. also moved to sell chips to Saudi buyers. Saudi Arabia poses its own set of tech diffusion and security risks to the U.S., to say nothing of its economic and technological ties to China. In some cases, the economic benefits of exporting technology outweigh the security risks. Selling to key partners or strengthening U.S. global market share of a specific security-relevant technology can actually boost security. But it is becoming increasingly clear just how much some policymakers, such as the Treasury and Commerce secretaries, are treating national security issues as bargaining chips (no pun intended) in trade negotiations. Doing so might create a mirage of short-term, superficial wins. Diffusing security-sensitive technologies to U.S. adversaries, however, would be a bigger, long-term mistake. Justin Sherman is the founder and CEO of Global Cyber Strategies, a research and advisory firm, and a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council. Guest commentaries like this one are written by authors outside the Barrons newsroom. They reflect the perspective and opinions of the authors. Submit feedback and commentary pitches to ideas@barrons.com. WHAT THE TECH? App of the Day: Using 'Milanote' to organize your life News / National by Staff reporter A deepening social crisis is gripping the city of Bulawayo, with a disturbing surge in the number of children living and working on its streets - many of whom now hail from the city's own suburban neighborhoods.According to a report by Daily News Zimbabwe published today, the growing presence of suburban children on the streets marks a troubling new chapter in an ongoing crisis. Traditionally associated with children from impoverished backgrounds, street life is now drawing in youths from households once considered relatively stable, highlighting a broader and more severe collapse in family and community support systems.Child rights advocates and social welfare experts are raising alarm bells over this emerging trend, which they say reflects the cumulative impact of worsening economic conditions, increasing rates of domestic breakdown, and a rise in cases of abuse, neglect, and parental incapacity."This isn't just a poverty issue anymore. We are witnessing families from middle- and lower-middle-income suburbs crumbling under economic and social pressures, leading to children fleeing or being forced onto the streets," said one child welfare officer.Children living on the streets face harrowing conditions. Exposed to daily risks of violence, exploitation, substance abuse, and chronic illness, many are forced into survival modes that include begging, scavenging, or informal labor. Without access to shelter, healthcare, education, or consistent nutrition, these children become trapped in a dangerous cycle of destitution.Humanitarian organizations and child-focused NGOs have urged an immediate and coordinated response to the worsening situation. They are calling for not only emergency interventions to rescue and rehabilitate children but also long-term structural solutions that address the root causes of urban child homelessness."We need a holistic approach - government social protection, community-based family support, school reintegration programs, and tougher action against abuse and neglect," said a representative from a local NGO.As the crisis deepens, the presence of suburban children on Bulawayo's streets serves as a stark warning that no community is immune from the socio-economic shocks reverberating through Zimbabwe. The need for urgent, inclusive, and sustained action has never been greater. The US tariffs have brought plenty of difficulty for businesses, which Minister Peter Burke has made previous comment on. His belief that pharmaceuticals should have a single 15% tariff has been discussed, but he has mentioned the large scale effects that are costly to any businessperson. They affect all products and goods that are exported because they are an additional cost on top of the price. In the US, that means essentially that it cant retain market share on a product so this presents an additional challenge. So, not just pharmaceuticals," he explained when asked about what industries are affected in Ireland. Read more: 'No upside for Ireland' Longford MEP Mullooly critical of US-EU tariff agreement Minister Burke further explained Section 232, which is an investigation that is looking at pharmaceuticals and semi-conductors in isolation. Were waiting for the outcome, he added. Anything from the investigation is hopefully not in excess of 15%. When asked about whether he has been communicating with concerned businesspeople who have been affected by the tariffs, Minister Burke continued: I have been working with business owners for the last months. We set up a new enterprise committee. We have a tariff response unit working with 950 companies who export to the U.S. 68,000 jobs are reliant on those companies. There are many supports through innovation grants, market diversification as well. Were looking at other methods as well with Enterprise Ireland. In terms of the current state for Ireland, Minister Burke made it clear how challenging tariffs are. Read more: 'Unparalleled access'- Longford businesses invited to Government Supply Expo 2025 Its a very challenging time for Ireland in retaining market share with those talents. If 15% arent added to tariffs in those sectors, like agriculture, it may not be affected so that is important. A man has been given consecutive jail terms for his involvement in payment redirect frauds, which saw two separate companies scammed out of tens of thousands of euros in November and December 2019. Paul Adetunji (24), with an address at 55 Lana Aoibheann, St Michaels Road, Longford, sat alone, wearing a black jacket and tracksuit pants as Judge Kenneth Connolly sentenced him to two years and three months in prison at Longford Circuit Court. He appeared charged with six counts of money-laundering - one count relating to one Finnish company, and five counts relating to a second Finnish company. READ NEXT: Longford County Council's strategic site sale to Technimark could create up to 120 jobs Detective Garda Clive Glancy told Shane Geraghty BL, for the state, that he received a report from AIB in January 2020 relating to a suspected fraudulent payment made to a Longford account under the accuseds name. On November 27, 2019, a company in Finland made a payment of 23,140 into Mr Adetunjis account after a false email instructed the company to change the account details, from those of the Polish company that was meant to receive the payment, to those of the accused. The Finnish company later recalled the funds, stating their client had been defrauded, but the funds had been depleted. A number of documents were provided to Gardai, including an account ledger. READ NEXT: Second round of funding for Longford Town Night-Time Economy grant open Those documents were backed up by CCTV footage from November 27, which showed the accused withdrawing 600 from an ATM outside the bank, and from November 28, which showed him withdrawing 600 outside, another 1,500 from an ATM inside the bank, and 1,160 from the bank teller. The rest of the money was distributed via a number of internet transactions, including a beneficiary labelled iNet Family. Mr Adetunji, when arrested and questioned, told Gardai he was in a nightclub in Dublin when a male named Alex approached him and bought him drinks before asking if he had a bank account and would he accept a payment. The accused handed over his account details and later received a call asking him to make the withdrawals and meet three other males in a BMW, so he could hand over the money. He said he thought the money belonged to Alex. The injured party has not been refunded, Det. Gda Glancy revealed. The accused has 11 previous convictions, including public order, assault, drugs offences and driving offences. Detective Garda Mark Kelly of Galway Garda Station gave evidence of how, in January 2022, he was assigned to investigate an alleged fraud or deception at AIB in Galway, which took place between December 16 and 20, 2029 - just a short time after the fraud in Det Gda Glancys investigation. Again a separate Finnish company was the victim of a redirect fraud and 44,089.68 was paid into the AIB account in Eyre Square, Galway, belonging to a man who has since been prosecuted. We followed the money and, straight away, as soon as it came in, it was filtered to other accounts, including an An Post account, said Det. Gda Kelly. That An Post account belonged to Mr Adetunji, who received a total of 8,200 of that initial 44k. Det. Gda Kelly discovered Det. Gda Glancy was conducting a similar investigation into the accused and got his contact details before meeting him in Longford Garda Station. Mr Adetunji admitted he had been advised by a third party to open an An Post account, which he did on November 11, 2019. He said he was aware money would be transferred, and he would receive 500 for providing the account details. He withdrew a total of 3,000 from his An Post account, and 600 from a Bank of Ireland ATM, and handed it to a man he would only identify as P. He then gave his card to P, and two further withdrawals were made in Dublin. A total of 12,000 was successfully recalled by the Finnish company, but none of the 8,200 that was transferred to Mr Adetunjis account was recovered. Again, a false email had been received by the company, requesting a change in bank account details and resulting in the loss. In mitigation, Kieran Collins BL, for the accused, said his client had a limited function in the scam. He was 18 years old at the time and still in school. He has a very poor record since these offences, with five incidents resulting in 11 convictions, he said, but most were dealt with summarily in the District Court, with only one driving offence before the Circuit Court. The accused works shift work, and has a new baby. He is taking a pro-social attitude towards his behaviour, Mr Collins explained. In a letter of apology, he stated he accepts full responsibility for his actions and regrets what he did. I have learned from my mistake and I really hope you can forgive me for my actions here today, he said. A probation report assessed him at the higher end of a moderate risk of reoffending, but said he has some level of insight into his offending and would be suitable for Community Service. However, Judge Connolly said the offences were very serious and very significant, with penalties of up to 14 years. He noted the significant value of the losses to the two companies, with one company losing over 23,000 to Mr Adetunjis account, and the other losing more than 8,000 to Mr Adetunji. None of that money was recovered and no offer of compensation was made, said Judge Connolly, noting that the accused had made under 1,000 from the two scams. The accounts he gave are touching on fantasy. He states he met a man he didnt know in a nightclub. That man bought him drinks and requested the use of his account, said Judge Connolly. That is very difficult to believe indeed. I cant say its untrue but if it is true, it paints a very poor picture of Mr Adetunji that hed go along with that. In the second incident, he was approached by a man he called P, and allowed him to use his account and gave him his card and pin number. I cannot, for a moment, believe he thought anything lawful was going on. There is a complete loss of public confidence in the banking sector as a direct result of these types of crimes, he said, and people like the accused have complete disregard for that when they engage in this type of offending. He noted the accused had no previous convictions at the time of the offence, but has 11 convictions since and, despite his young age and the apology afforded to the court, he is at risk of reoffending. He says he learned from his mistake, but the court must take that with some scepticism given his 11 subsequent convictions. He set headline sentences of three years for the first charge, and two years for the second, stating that these sentences would be served consecutively because there were two separate victims in two separate schemes. The remaining four counts on the indictment would be taken into consideration. He noted the plea of guilt in mitigation and the fact that the accused has an infant, so it is not at all comforting to the court that it has to impose a custodial sentence. Following mitigation, he proceeded to reduce those sentences to two years and two months, and one year and four months respectively. Noting the total sentence amounted to three years and six months, he said the total is somewhat disproportionate, and so reduced the second sentence to ten months, bringing the total of the two sentences to three years. He then suspended the final nine months for a period of two years post-release. The community in Ballymahon, will finally reap the rewards of a 'more reliable water supply' according to Uisce Eireann who have announced they are set to commence critical upgrade works. The works will replace over 5.4km of old and aged water mains prone to frequent bursts and outages along the N55 between Carrickedmond and Ballymahon with new pipes. This work will also help to secure the towns water supply, reduce high levels of leakage and support much needed growth in this thriving midland town. READ NEXT: A challenging time': Minister Peter Burke explains what tariffs mean to Ireland Speaking about the project, Dave Murphy, Programme Manager with Uisce Eireann, said: We are thrilled to be commencing this project, which will ensure a more sustainable water supply for the community in Ballymahon. The replacement of these old, damaged pipes will have a positive impact on leakage by significantly lowering the instances of bursts and supply disruptions along the network, providing a more secure water supply for local homes and businesses for years to come. We would like to extend our thanks to the community in advance for their patience and support as we arrive to deliver this much needed project to future proof the water network and support the town to grow. READ NEXT: Welcoming disco to happen in Longford Arms for all who would like to attend Ward and Burke Construction Ltd. will carry out the works on behalf of Uisce Eireann. The project will take place along the N55 between the Carrickedmond Church and Ballymahon mart. Traffic management will be needed to deliver this vital project efficiently and safely. Safety is a key priority at Uisce Eireann. We are working in close collaboration with the local authority to finalise plans, with efficiency and safety in focus. Further information will be communicated locally in due course. This project will be delivered as part of Uisce Eireanns national Leakage Reduction Programme which continues to deliver significant benefits to communities across Ireland, including improved water quality, provision of a more resilient and sustainable water supply for customers, and considerable water savings. Since 2018, Uisce Eireann has invested more than 500 million to upgrade the underground water network across the country through the delivery of the national Leakage Reduction Programme. Uisce Eireann is investing a further 250 million every year up to the end of 2030 - fixing leaks and replacing pipes to provide a more reliable water supply. Uisce Eireann is on target to reduce the national rate of leakage to 25% by 2030, from 46% in 2018. For more information on the Leakage Reduction Programme, please visit www.water.ie/ reducingleaks . Customers can also contact Uisce Eireann on 1800 278 278 with any questions about the project. Uisce Eireann has a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number on our text alerts page. Uisce Eireann is responsible for delivering public drinking water and wastewater services for the people of Ireland. We are committed to enabling communities to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support sustainable growth and development, providing safe drinking water, and enhancing the environment. To find out more visit www.water.ie It is unsatisfactory that the main person convicted for the killing of an Irish peacekeeper in 2022 is still at large, Irelands premier has said. Micheal Martin was speaking after a man was given a death sentence in Lebanon over Private Sean Rooneys death. Rooney, 24, from Newtowncunningham in Co Donegal, was killed when a convoy of Irish troops serving with a UN peacekeeping force was ambushed and fired upon on December 14 2022. The shooting happened near the town of Al-Aqbiya in the south of Lebanon, a stronghold of Hezbollah. Pte Rooney, from the 121 Infantry Battalion of the Defence Forces, was killed. In March, Tanaiste Simon Harris said he pressed the case during meetings in Beirut with the Lebanese ministers for foreign affairs and defence. On Monday, the Government was informed of the completion of a military tribunal in Beirut for those indicted for the murder of Pte Rooney. Taoiseach Micheal Martin said a number of people had been convicted in relation to his murder but some of the sentences were unduly lenient. The main culprit was at large and that is very, very regrettable, he said ahead of Cabinet. The delay that it has taken to have justice has been far too long and I must say that some of the sentences are unduly lenient as well in respect of others. Peacekeeping is a very noble cause and Private Sean Rooney gave his life to the cause of peacekeeping and to protect others. Ive said repeatedly to the Lebanese authorities that the nobility of the role of the peacekeeper must always be reflected in terms of bringing those who are responsible for this murder to justice and we will continue to make that point. The Taoiseach said death sentences in Lebanon had not been applied for quite some time and the expectation is that it will be commuted. Overall, those responsible had escaped, if you like, justice for far too long. Many are at large for quite some time and the main individual now is at large as well and that is very unsatisfactory. He added: The court has made its decision, we cant interfere in the operation of the court itself. But I think the whole process certainly left a lot to be desired. Local News, Crime By Long Island Published: July 28 2025 Chaos erupted in Midtown Manhattan Monday afternoon when a man opened fire in the heart of New York City, injuring at least six people and sending shockwaves through the bustling area. Chaos erupted in Midtown Manhattan Monday afternoon when a man opened fire in the heart of New York City, injuring at least six people and sending shockwaves through the bustling area. The incident unfolded around 1:45 p.m. near the busy intersection of West 46th Street and Sixth Avenue, just blocks from Times Square. Authorities say the suspect began shooting indiscriminately before attempting to flee on foot. NYPD Response & Arrest New York City police officers swiftly responded and apprehended the alleged shooter a short time later near Bryant Park. The NYPD confirmed that a firearm was recovered at the scene. The suspects identity has not yet been released, but officials say there is no ongoing threat to the public. "This was a terrifying scene in the middle of a workday," said NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban. "Thanks to fast-acting officers and first responders, we were able to contain the situation quickly." Injuries & Condition Updates Six people were wounded, including several bystanders. Three of the victims are in serious but stable condition at local hospitals. Others sustained minor injuries and are being treated. Emergency medical crews and law enforcement flooded the area as businesses were temporarily placed on lockdown and commuters were redirected. Investigation Ongoing Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the shooting. Preliminary reports suggest it may not have been a targeted attack, but police are exploring all possibilities, including mental health and prior criminal history. Impact on Long Island Commuters The shooting caused disruptions for many Long Island Rail Road and subway commuters as NYPD cordoned off parts of Midtown during rush hour. Travelers are advised to check with the MTA for the latest updates. Stay Tuned LongIsland.com will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available. Local News By Long Island Published: July 29 2025 Based out of Mineola, with a high-profile Manhattan presence, the firm has built a reputation for fierce advocacy and top verdicts in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Advocates Rooted in Long Island For over 40 years, Finz & Finz, P.C. has been the law firm that Long Island accident victims turn to when seeking justice. Based out of Mineola, with a high-profile Manhattan presence, the firm has built a reputation for fierce advocacy and top verdicts in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. A Record of Results With more than $1 billion secured in verdicts and settlements, Finz & Finz has delivered six, seven and even eightfigure results across complex injury cases. Highlights include: $24.5 million for a truck accident $20.5 million+ in defective product verdicts Record wrongful death and medical malpractice outcomes Their trial-ready approach has earned them spots in the top 20 and top 10 settlements in New York State multiple years running. What They Do: Core Practice Areas Finz & Finz handles a wide range of serious personal injury cases, including: Motor vehicle accidents : Cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians and rideshares Workplace injuries & catastrophic harm Medical malpractice, including birth injuries and surgical errors Defective products and drugs Premises liability, dog bites, and wrongful death claims Leadership : Stuart L. Finz, Partner, Trial Attorney & CEO leads a team with deep litigation experience. Legacy & Expertise : Founded in 1984 by former New York State Supreme Court Justice Leonard L. Finz. The firm includes multiple former judges among its ranks and is regularly lauded for legal ability and ethics. Collaborative excellence: Finz & Finz maintains strong partnerships with nationally recognized medical, vocational and liability experts to bolster complex claims. Recognitions & Reputation Consistently rated as Preeminent Lawyers of America by MartindaleHubbell and featured in Super Lawyers , MultiMillion Dollar Advocates Forum , and recognized by the New York Law Journal . Accredited A+ rating from the BBB Frequently named among the top motorcycle and accident firms in NYC & Long Island by Expertise.com and legal outlets. Client Care You Can Trust Clients consistently praise the firms compassionate, handson approach: They handle your case with the utmost ethic and care. I absolutely recommend this kind and trustworthy lawyer. Javier HC They fought hard so we could get the best settlement available I would definitely recommend. Samine Gibson What You Can Expect When You Call A free case review , available 24/7 via (855) TOPFIRM No upfront fees payment only if they deliver a recovery Personalized guidance, including access to their Glove Box Guide on what to do after a car accident. Why Long Islanders Choose Finz & Finz Local News By Chris Boyle Published: July 28 2025 The incident took place at approximately 3 p.m. near the intersection of Powerhouse Road and Mineola Avenue. Authorities Report that several individuals were injured following a school bus crash in Roslyn Heights on Monday, July 28. The incident took place at approximately 3 p.m. near the intersection of Powerhouse Road and Mineola Avenue. Reports indicate that five people sustained injuries and are being treated. The severity of the injuries and the ages of the victims are currently unknown, as are the number of vehicles involved and which school district the bus was from. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: August 08 2025 The event is a family-friendly night of music under the stars featuring an array of multicultural performances, food trucks, vendors and more. Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages (D Valley Stream) is encouraging Nassau County residents to support the 20th annual Simons Valley Stream Jazz Festival, which is set for 5 11 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9 at the Valley Stream Bandshell located on Verona Place and East New York Avenue in Valley Stream. Last year, the festival, which was spearheaded through a partnership between Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, the Village, and Jazz Festival organizers, drew hundreds for a family-friendly night of music under the stars featuring an array of multicultural performances, food trucks, vendors and more. For 20 years, the Simon family has brought us together for a one-of-a-kind multicultural celebration of the performing arts, and I am thrilled that they will soon be reaching a major milestone in our community, Legislator Solages said. I thank Assemblymember Michaelle Solages and the Village of Valley Stream for their partnership in nurturing this event, and I encourage everyone to bring a lawn chair to the bandshell on August 9 for a beautiful night of music under the stars! WHEN 5 11 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9 WHERE Valley Stream Bandshell Verona Place and East New York Avenue Valley Stream, N.Y. 11580 REGISTRATION REQUIRED RSVP: 2025 Valley Stream Jazz Festival Crime By Chris Boyle Published: July 28 2025 Jonathan Sarasohn of Great Neck, 22, was arrested after allegedly sharing child sex abuse material while working as a waiter and camp counselor at Tranquillity Camp in Earlton. A Long Island native is accused of sharing child phonography while working at an upstate summer camp, authorities say. According to the Greene County Sheriffs Office, Jonathan Sarasohn of Great Neck, 22, was arrested after allegedly sharing child sex abuse material while working as a waiter and camp counselor at Tranquillity Camp in Earlton, which is co-ed and hosts children from 7 to 15 years of age. Sarasohn has been charged with two felonies- promoting an obscene sexual performance by a child under 17 and possession of an obscene sexual performance by a child. Following his arraignment, he was remanded to the Greene County jail where his bail has been set for an unknown amount. A second suspect, Charles Gorfain of Wesley Chapel, Florida, 20, was also charged with possession of an obscene sexual performance by a child; he was issued an appearance ticket for the Town of Coxsackie. It is currently not known if Gorfain was also an employee of the camp. It is unknown as of press time if any of the material the two suspects shared contained were of minors who attended Tranquillity Camp. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: July 29 2025 Air Quality Health Advisories in Effect Today and Tomorrow for Long Island and New York City Regions. Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on the continuing air quality and extreme heat conditions across the State. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Department of Health issued Air Quality Health Advisories for today, July 29, and tomorrow, July 30, from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. for ozone for the Long Island and New York City Metro regions. Heat advisories are in effect for portions of the Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley, Capital District, Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island Regions. Feels-like temperatures will be in the 90s across much of the state and could exceed 100 degrees in portions of the Mid-Hudson, Long Island and New York City Regions on Tuesday and Wednesday. As high temperatures and poor air quality impact parts of our state, were taking action to ensure New Yorkers are safe, Governor Hochul said. Heat is the number one cause of extreme weather fatalities in the State of New York, and I encourage everyone to take the proper precautions to protect themselves, their families and our most vulnerable neighbors. On Wednesday, locally severe thunderstorms with the potential for damaging winds are possible in the Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier, Capital District, Mid-Hudson, NYC and Long Island regions ahead of a cold front that will bring cooler air through the weekend. On Thursday, there is the potential for heavy rain of 1 3 inches with locally higher amounts that could lead to flash flooding primarily in the Mid-Hudson, Long Island and New York City Regions. Be Air Quality Aware Guidance on Extreme Heat High temperatures with humidity can be dangerous for older adults, small children, people who work outdoors and individuals with preexisting health conditions such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes. Signs of heat-related illnesses are dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, decreased urination and rapid breathing. -Tips to stay safe in extreme heat: -Stay hydrated -Avoid direct sunlight -Seek air conditioning or shade -Avoid strenuous outdoor activity, especially during the hottest hours of the day. -Check in on older family members and neighbors -Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing any symptoms of heat-related illnesses People with heart or lung conditions (like asthma), young children, older adults and anyone who exercises or works hard outside should try to limit outdoor activity when ozone levels are high (usually in the afternoon to early evening). If you have symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing, you should talk to your doctor. Extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related fatalities in the United States. The most common heat-related illnesses are heat stroke (sun stroke), heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat rash. Learn more about heat related illness, including signs and symptoms and when to take action on the State Health Departments extreme heat advice webpage You can also locate cooling centers close to you here Heat Dashboard The Department has launched a new tool to help New Yorkers understand their risk from extreme heat. The New York State Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard uses real-time data points to help communities and decision-makers. It can be used by school officials, employers and other decisionmakers to guide heat related planning, such as adjusting outdoor activities or opening cooling centers. The tool is part of the Departments broader efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change. Pet Safety New Yorkers should also plan accordingly for pet care to ensure pet safety during periods of extreme heat: Provide ample water indoors and outdoors. Limit outdoor activity, and if outdoors, rest in shaded areas regularly. Be mindful of pavement temperatures hot surfaces may cause burns on paws, so consider walking on grass or using pet boots. Never leave pets in vehicles unattended when heat is a risk. Know the signs of heatstroke in pets including excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting and stumbling. Extended Hours at State Parks The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has extended hours at state swimming and cooling facilities and other state parks during the current heat wave to help New Yorkers beat the heat. Swimming availability may be affected by hazardous weather, changing water conditions or staffing. Please check State Parks website parks.ny.gov or call the park you wish to visit directly to confirm availability. The following State Park swimming facilities will be open for extended hours: Long Island Jones Beach State Park: Field 6, Central Mall and Field 2; extended swimming until 8 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Robert Moses State Park: Field 2 & 5; extended swimming until 8 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Sunken Meadow State Park: Main Beach; extended swimming until 8 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Hither Hills State Park: extended swimming until 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Heckscher State Park: extended swimming until 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Wildwood State Park: extended swimming until 7:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Hudson Valley Bear Mountain State Park: extended swimming until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park pool: extended until 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Lake Tiorati State Park: extended swimming until 6:45 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Lake Welch State Park: extended swimming until 6:45 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Rockland Lake State Park pool: extended swimming until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Lake Minnewaska: extended swimming until 7:15 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Lake Minnewaska-Awosting: extended swimming until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday New York City Gantry Plaza State Park: Sprinklers and mist fans set up throughout the park Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park: indoor and outdoor pool extended swimming until 8 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Capital District Lake Taghkanic State Park: extended swimming until 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Taconic-Copake State Park: extended swimming until 8 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Taconic Kiddie Pool: extended swimming until 8 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Saratoga Spa State Park: Peerless and Victoria pools extended swimming until 7 p.m. Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday Grafton Lakes State Park: extended swimming until 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Moreau Lake State Park: extended swimming until 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Mine Kill State Park: extended swimming until 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Thompsons Lake/Thacher State Park: extended swimming until 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Central New York/Finger Lakes Fair Haven Beach State Park: extended swimming until 8 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Taughannock Falls State Park: extended swimming until 8 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Cayuga Lake State Park: extended swimming until 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Watkins Glen State Park pool: extended swimming until 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Robert Treman State Park: extended swimming until 8 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Western New York Darien Lake State Park: extended swimming until 7:45 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Fort Niagara State Park: extended swimming until 8 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Beaver Island State Park: extended swimming until 8 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday Prior to making a trip, potential visitors should call ahead to the park they plan to visit or check https://parks.ny.gov/parks/ for park hours and operations. Changes in weather and water conditions may affect swimming status. Park status updates are also available on the free New York State Parks Explorer mobile app for iOS and Android devices. New York State agencies are taking the actions and making recommendations to respond to the forecasted heat. These include: New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services The Office of Emergency Management is in regular contact with county emergency managers to ensure cooling centers are available, and to offer support and advise on extreme heat risks. In addition, the agency is facilitating preparations and coordinating guidance and communications with State agency partners. Information on how to manage extreme heat can be found online. To receive real time weather and emergency alerts, New Yorkers are encouraged to text the name of their county or borough to 333111. New York State Department of Public Service The Department of Public Service (DPS) is tracking electric system conditions and overseeing utility response to any situations that may arise as a result of this week's heat. Department staff, as a part of annual summer preparation activities, work with all utilities to confirm that they will reliably meet customer demands for the summer operating period. Based on staff review and assessment of utility data, meetings with each of the individual utilities and the New York Independent System Operator, staff found that the states electric transmission and distribution systems are prepared to reliably meet forecasted 2025 summer electric demands. New York's utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available, as necessary, to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State for this heat event. Agency staff will track utilities' work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact. During heat waves, increased usage of electric devices such as air conditioners place a considerable demand on the state's electricity system and instances of low voltage or isolated power outages can result. The record for such usage was set on July 19, 2013, when it reached 33,956 MWs (one megawatt of electricity is enough to power up to 1,000 average-sized homes). Metropolitan Transportation Authority To reduce potential impacts to service and reduce response times to heat-related events, NYC Transit will implement heat patrols to proactively increase track inspections and stage extra personnel and equipment, such as generators, in key risk areas including power substations, machine rooms and communication rooms. To ensure functioning air conditioning, subway railcars and buses will be inspected before being placed in service. Paratransit service providers are reminded vehicles must have functioning air-conditioning. Buses and operators will be on standby for any support needed with subways or emergency service. NYC Transit also implements a continuous welded rail watch when rail temperatures exceed 100 degrees to be vigilant of rail kinks or other issues and recalls all HVAC employees to address any hot stations or workspaces. Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad crews will be staged at key locations to be able to respond quickly to weather-related issues. The railroads will monitor rail temperatures, deploy heat patrols to inspect the rails for any kinks and stage additional Power Department personnel to protect power substations and overhead aerial lines. Train crews have been instructed to report any rail conditions that need attention. For a complete listing of weather watches, warnings, advisories and latest forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website. News / National by Staff reporter Zimbabwe's export economy remains firmly anchored in its traditional staples of tobacco and gold, while imports are still dominated by fuel, vehicles, and machinery, according to the latest Trade and Price Statistics Report for July 2025 released by the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (Zimstat).The report reveals that Zimbabwe earned US$723.5 million in export revenue in June 2025, with semi-manufactured gold once again topping the list, accounting for 53.6% of total export value. Nickel mattes followed with 12.7%, while stripped tobacco contributed 5.7%. Combined, these three products made up over 70% of the country's export income, underlining Zimbabwe's continued reliance on raw mineral and agricultural exports.On the import side, Zimbabwe brought in goods worth US$882.0 million in June. Mineral fuels and oils constituted the largest portion at 20.5%, reflecting the country's ongoing vulnerability to global energy markets. Machinery and mechanical appliances made up 13.0% of imports, cereals 6.8%, and motor vehicles 6.6%."The data shows a persistent dependence on a narrow range of exports and a significant reliance on imported industrial and consumer goods," Zimstat noted in the report.The United Arab Emirates (UAE) remained Zimbabwe's top export destination, taking in 54.8% of the country's goods, primarily gold. South Africa received 23.5% of Zimbabwe's exports, while China accounted for 8.3%. These three markets collectively absorbed nearly 87% of all Zimbabwean exports in June.Meanwhile, South Africa was the largest source of Zimbabwe's imports, supplying 34.5% of the goods brought into the country, followed by China (15.0%), Bahrain (9.8%), and the Bahamas (5.3%). Together, these countries contributed roughly 65% of Zimbabwe's total imports for the month.Regionally, trade with SADC countries was dominated by nickel mattes (42.0%), coke and semi-coke of coal (8.8%), semi-manufactured gold (7.9%), and chromium ores (5.8%). Within the COMESA bloc, the leading exports were iron and steel products (18.6%), tobacco cigarettes (18.3%), and coke (10.5%).Zimbabwe's exports to the European Union in June consisted mainly of tobacco (30.9%), ferro-chromium (25.9%), and unworked industrial diamonds (24.3%), reinforcing the trend of the country's dependency on primary commodities.The report underscores the structural challenges facing Zimbabwe's trade balance. While exports continue to be propped up by raw material sales, the economy remains highly susceptible to import shocks, particularly in the energy and industrial sectors.Economists warn that without diversifying both export products and markets, and boosting local production of high-value goods, Zimbabwe's trade structure will remain precarious. Crime By Chris Boyle Published: July 29 2025 Navdeep Singh allegedly hired a hitman in May to kidnap and murder a former business associate. Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a Dix Hills man was indicted on six counts of conspiracy and six counts of criminal solicitation for hatching a plot to hire a hitman to kidnap and murder a former business associate. Navdeep Singh, 48, of Dix Hills, was arraigned before Judge Colin ODonnell on grand jury indictment charges of two counts of Conspiracy in the Second Degree (a B felony); two counts of Criminal Solicitation in the Second Degree (a D felony); three counts of Conspiracy in the Fourth Degree (an E felony); one count of Conspiracy in the Fifth Degree (an A misdemeanor); and four counts of Criminal Solicitation in the Fourth Degree (an A misdemeanor). The defendant pleaded not guilty and was remanded. He is due back in court on September 4, 2025. If convicted, he faces up to 25 years in prison. A years-long dispute between business rivals took a disturbing turn when this defendant allegedly hired a hitman to kidnap and dispose of his former associate, said DA Donnelly. Navdeep Singh set the times and the places, meeting with his would-be hitman, providing descriptions, photos and instructions to extort and murder his intended victim. The incredible detective work and fast action by the Nassau County Police Departments District Attorneys Squad and my prosecutors ensured that Navdeep Singhs plot was never carried out and he is now indicted for his many crimes. DA Donnelly said that, according to the charges, on May 29, 2025, the defendant allegedly had a conversation with another individual and solicited the person to kidnap and murder a former business associate in exchange for $100,000 and ten acres of land in India. The defendant provided the individual with his telephone number so that they could communicate about the alleged plan. Between May 31, 2025, and June 7, 2025, the defendant met with and communicated via telephone with the would-be hitman about the plan and allegedly provided the individual with information, photographs and cash. On June 3, 2025, the defendant allegedly instructed the individual that the victim should be kidnapped from his home and held in another state for approximately ten days. The defendant would then request a check be written to him from the victims company and once that check cleared, the defendant requested that the victim be killed. Two days later, on June 5, 2025, the defendant allegedly met with the individual he hired and provided them with $7,000 cash as a deposit for the kidnapping and murder. During this time period, the defendant also showed the individual an image of the intended victim on his phone, sent images of the victims home and one of the victims cars, purchased four cell phones and provided them to the hired hitman to contact him, and met with the individual once again to drive past the intended victims residence in Nassau County. The victim knew the defendant for several years as part of ongoing businesses dealings with his construction company and has been engaged in litigation with the defendants company, Gravity Construction Corp., for approximately two years after he took the defendants company off a job he was managing. Singh was arrested by members of the Nassau County Police Departments District Attorney Squad in Manhasset on June 7, 2025. The case is being prosecuted by Pharmaceutical Diversion and Cybercrimes Unit Chief Kelsey Lorer and Senior Assistant District Attorney Nicole Aratoon of the Organized Crime and Rackets Bureau, under the supervision of Bureau Chief Jeremy Glicksman, and under the overall supervision of Executive Assistant District Attorney for the Investigations Division Rick Whelan. The defendant is represented by Michael Matera, Esq. Federal grant will boost student retention and graduation at Madonna University LIVONIA, MICH. The U.S. Department of Education has awarded Madonna University a federal TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grant totaling $1.3 million to improve college retention and graduation rates among low-income, first-generation students, and students with disabilities. This award marks the continuation of 47 years of TRIO SSS services at Madonna University. Since 1978, the program has served thousands of students, helping them stay in school, earn degrees, and build meaningful careers. Through individualized services including academic tutoring, financial aid, scholarship guidance, career exploration, personal and academic counseling, and mentoring, TRIO SSS empowers students to overcome barriers to success. These comprehensive supports make it significantly more likely that students will complete their degree or successfully transfer, with the lowest possible debt. The TRIO SSS program is woven into the fabric of Madonna Universitys exceptional history and tradition of meeting our students needs and promoting opportunity for student achievement and success, said Madonna University President Christopher Dougherty, Ph.D. For students enrolled in the program, we are able to provide a comprehensive range of services to help them thrive academically and personally. I am grateful to the TRIO SSS team at Madonna for all they do! Nationally, the SSS program has a proven track record. According to a rigorous 2019 evaluation by the U.S. Department of Education, students in SSS at two-year institutions were 48 percent more likely to earn an associate degree or transfer to a four-year school, and students at four-year institutions were 18 percent more likely to earn a bachelors degree compared to similar peers not in the program. TRIO programs generally and TRIO SSS, in particular, transform students from the least resourced backgrounds into college graduates, said Kimberly Jones, president of the Council for Opportunity in Education in Washington, D.C. This vital program makes all the difference for nearly a million students each year across the country. SSS is one of eight federal TRIO programs funded under the Higher Education Act of 1965 to remove social, academic, and cultural barriers to higher education. Since its inception in 1968, SSS has helped millions of low-income, first-generation students graduate from college and contribute to their communities and the economy. Notable alumni of the TRIO Student Support Services program include Michael Cashman, Town Supervisor of Plattsburgh, NY; former NASA astronaut Jose Hernandez; and Cheryl Johnson, 36th Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives. For more information about TRIO Student Support Services at Madonna University, visit TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) or contact trio@madonna.edu. About the Federal TRIO Programs TRIO programs (Talent Search, Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math-Science, Veterans Upward Bound, Student Support Services, Educational Opportunity Centers, and the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program) help students overcome academic, economic, and social barriers to higher education. TRIO services include assistance in choosing a college and tutoring; personal, financial, and career counseling; assistance in applying to college; workplace and college visits; special instruction in reading, writing, study skills, and mathematics; assistance in applying for financial aid; and academic assistance in high school or assistance to reenter high school or college. News / National by Staff reporter In a watershed decision with major implications for property rights and urban development, Zimbabwe's Constitutional Court has ruled that the government cannot compulsorily acquire peri-urban land under its land reform programme without paying fair compensation to landowners.The historic judgement, handed down in the case of Fletcher v Minister of Lands & Others (CCZ 14/25), draws a firm legal line between agricultural land reform and urban property rights, and reasserts the role of the courts in arbitrating such disputes.At the centre of the case was Alistair Michael Fletcher, who contested the state's attempt to seize his titled property on the outskirts of Bulawayo, near Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport. Although the land - known as the Umguza Agricultural Lots - had been converted into urban land via a 1999 presidential proclamation (Statutory Instrument 212 of 1999), the government still attempted to acquire it under constitutional provisions meant for agricultural land reform.The Ministry of Lands claimed the land had been gazetted and now vested in the state, placing restrictive caveats on the title and barring transfer or development. Fletcher challenged these actions as unconstitutional, arguing that urban land is excluded from agricultural land reform and that his rights under Section 71 of the Constitution had been violated.Though the Supreme Court initially sided with the state - ruling that courts had no jurisdiction over land reform acquisitions - the Constitutional Court overturned that decision.In his judgment, Justice Benjamin Hlatshwayo declared that the land reform protections under Section 16B of the former Constitution and Section 72 of the current Constitution only apply to agricultural land - not urban or peri-urban areas."Section 16B applies only to agricultural land and cannot be extended to cover urban or peri-urban land," wrote Justice Hlatshwayo. "The inclusion of Fletcher's land into the Bulawayo City boundaries through S.I. 212 of 1999 placed it outside the scope of land targeted for resettlement or agricultural reform."The Court affirmed that where land is urban or peri-urban in nature, the state must follow standard expropriation procedures and provide compensation - and such cases remain subject to judicial review.The judgment restores the authority of the courts to hear and determine disputes involving land that government agencies wrongly classify as "state land" under land reform."By omitting urban land, the law presumes that this was an intentional exclusion," the Court held. "Courts retain full authority to hear and determine disputes involving urban land acquisition."This rebuke of blanket immunity for state land seizures is being hailed as a major win for private landowners, particularly those near growing cities who have long been vulnerable to uncompensated takeovers disguised as land reform.The ruling comes amid rapid urban expansion in Zimbabwe. Cities like Harare, Bulawayo, and Mutare are spilling into once-rural areas, triggering clashes between urbanisation pressures and land redistribution policies. Peri-urban landowners have increasingly found themselves caught in legal limbo - with land formally designated for urban use but still targeted under laws meant for agriculture.Legal experts say this decision clarifies the legal treatment of peri-urban land and provides stronger protection for urban property rights in the face of state action.Lead counsel for Fletcher, Advocate Thabani Mpofu, described the ruling as a pivotal moment for constitutional governance in Zimbabwe."This is not just about one landowner. It's about the rule of law and ensuring that the government acts within the limits of the constitution. For years, people have lived in fear that their urban land could be taken without notice or compensation. This judgment ends that uncertainty," he said.The Court stressed that the government is not barred from acquiring peri-urban land altogether - but it must do so lawfully and with compensation. The land in this case had already been zoned for residential development by the Bulawayo City Council in 2015 and 2016, making it ineligible for seizure under agricultural land reform laws.The judgment effectively closes a legal loophole that had allowed authorities to acquire peri-urban land without compensation by misclassifying it as agricultural.The ruling could have far-reaching implications for the government's land reform policy, especially in areas near major cities. Legal analysts warn that the decision may lead to a wave of new legal claims from landowners in similar circumstances.At the same time, the judgment provides clarity and security for investors, developers, and urban planners, who have often been reluctant to engage in peri-urban developments due to the risk of contested land tenure.The Ministry of Lands has yet to issue a public response, but the ruling is expected to prompt the drafting of new legal guidelines on how peri-urban land is classified and treated in the context of land reform.This Constitutional Court ruling is being viewed as one of the most significant legal pronouncements on land rights in Zimbabwe since the inception of the Fast Track Land Reform Programme in 2000. It strengthens judicial oversight, upholds constitutional protections, and reasserts limits on executive power.In a country where land remains a deeply political and emotional issue, the message from the court is unambiguous: urban land is not fair game for land reform, and constitutional rights must be upheld. Drake performs during Lil Baby's Birthday Party at State Farm Arena on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2022, in Atlanta. (Photo by Paul R. Giunta/Invision/AP) Paul R. Giunta/Invision/AP Drake has canceled his Australian and New Zealand shows five months after the gigs were originally postponed. Ticketholders learned the remainder of the Anita Max Win Tour was canceled on Tuesday, July 29 (Australia time). Live Nation Australia regrets to inform you that the previously postponed Drake shows in Australia and New Zealand have now been officially cancelled, a statement from Live Nation read. Despite extensive efforts to find a solution, rescheduling within the necessary timeframe was not possible, it continued. Drake remains committed to returning and performing these shows when his schedule permits. Anyone who bought tickets for the shows will be refunded. Ticketholders should check their email for information on the refund process, Live Nation said. Originally announced in November 2024, Drakes Anita Max Win Tour was the rappers first visit to Oceania since 2017, according to Billboard. The 16-date sold-out tour started in February 2025 with shows in Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. While the tour was supposed to end in early March, it was announced on Feb. 26 that the remaining four gigs had been postponed due to a scheduling conflict. Drakes representatives wrote in a statement at the time that the rappers team was actively working on rescheduling these dates along with adding some additional shows, Rolling Stone AU/NZ reported. However, no further updates came. The cast of the 52Sumner production of "Annie" rehearses just days before opening night on Saturday, Aug. 2. (Sophie Markham) Sophie Markham SPRINGFIELD How many actors portraying Annie does it take to stage the popular smash Broadway musical Annie? If you are the Springfield Community Theater of MA, which is producing the beloved play this weekend at 52 Sumner, the answer is two. And they are both equally cute and talented. Teagan Bajor, 11, of West Springfield, takes on the iconic role of the adventurous orphan on Saturday at 6:30 p.m., while Maryliz Maldonado, 10, of Northampton, steps into the role on Sunday for an afternoon matinee at 1:30 p.m. I hit the Annie lottery in finding these two talented young actors. They are just breathtaking and appear in almost every scene but one. They are really putting their hearts and souls into embracing the character of Annie, said Vana Nespor, artistic director of Springfield Community Theater of MA, who is also directing the play. Both girls are familiar with the Annie character they will be playing. I actually saw the revival on Broadway and loved it so much that it inspired me to audition for the 52Sumner production. Its the best play ever. I wanted to be Annie so much once I saw the Broadway version, Maldonado said. Bajor saw the movies and the Annie Live! television special that aired on NBC. I really enjoyed seeing the movies which I watched with my sisters and loved Annie who is a very strong and positive character, she said. Bajor has previously performed in Willy Wonka with the St. Michaels Players in East Longmeadow and in Finding Nemo at the Academy of Music in Northampton. Ive always wanted to be an actor, she said. Vana Nespor, director of "Annie" and founder and artistic executive director of the Springfield Community Theater of MA. (Sophie Markham) Sophie Markham Acting is clearly in the sights of young Maldonado who is already represented by several national talent agencies in New York and California. She recently performed in the Sabado Gigante skit on NBCs Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary Special and flew to Poland for an OLLY vitamins commercial that will run in ads for Target, Walmart and Amazon. She has also performed in numerous other plays, including Seussical The Musical with Amherst Community Theater. I love acting. You can be a new character, and you can sing, dance, act and do all of them at the same time like in Annie, Maldonado said. Learning lines can be a challenge for any actor, especially if you are younger and the lead in a musical which requires you to learn lines, the lyrics to songs, and choreography. Ive actually been preparing since April during recess at school with my friends to get more familiar with the lines. Im taking it step by step, the lines, then the choreography, and the singing. Im really excited to see how months and months of hard work can turn into something really fun, Bajor said. I love the process which can sometimes be pretty tricky, but I always get it in the end. Its practice, practice, practice, Maldonado said. If you are wondering if there is any competition between the two girls, the answer is no. We have become good friends, Bajor said. We always go over lines together and even have our own special handshake, Maldonado said. Maryliz Maldonado, 10, of Northampton of one of two Annies in the Springfield Community Theater's production of "Annie." Submitted Based on the popular comic strip by Harold Gray, Annie has become a worldwide phenomenon and was the winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The book and score by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin features some of the greatest musical theater hits ever written including Tomorrow, Its the Hard-Knock Life, and Maybe. The story focuses on little orphan Annnie who is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorsteps of a New York City orphanage run by the cruel and embittered Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the orphanage, Annie escapes. She helps to foil Miss Hannigans and her evil brothers plot, and along the way even befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Annie is the second play to be staged by Springfield Community Theater of MA following their successful inaugural production of A.R. Gurneys Love Letters. We had a purpose with Love Letters. It was to get our new community theater on the map, so people could learn about us. Having four dynamic well-known community members sharing the roles Mayor Domenic Sarno, Kathy Tobin, Steve Hays and Brenda Garton-Sjoberg helped to give us a sudden presence, Nespor said. We didnt make a lot of money with the play, but it got us exposure on television, radio and in the newspaper. You cant ask for sponsorships or actors to appear in your shows if they dont know who you are. But we had a huge response and support from the community and that was exciting for us, she added. Production and costume manager Roxanne Gambill alongside one of two Annies for the production, played by Teagan Bajor. (Sophie Markham) Sophie Markham Requiring only two actors and a table and two chairs for them to sit at as actors literally reading their love letters from over the years to one another, Love Letters was not an intricate first production to stage. For their second outing, Nespor could have played it easy as they look to build a following but decided to take a chance with the most difficult of plays to stage, especially for a community theater a musical. They are often costly for local theater groups, but for big Broadway producers as well, because of the elaborate sets, costumes, props, and bigger casts, as well as a litany of other factors adding to the cost including securing the rights for the artistic property. It is a huge challenge. There is no doubt about that. Its a fun show with its own set of challenges from needing lots of costumes, props, sets and more, not to mention finding the many actors and staff such as a choreographer, sound engineer, set designer and others needed to make the magic at 52 Sumner all possible, Nespor said, noting they are using professionally-recorded tracks for the score with the hope of one day being able to afford a live band. The plays director noted she is an extraordinarily proud mother. Im so proud of the entire ensemble and production staff who are doing this for no pay because they believe we should have community theater available in Springfield, Nespor said. Production Manager Roxanne Gambill is one of the many folks devoting their free time to the project. Im also costume designer, volunteer coordinator, and child wrangler, she laughed referencing the cast of some 15 children alone needed for the play which features a cast of some 35 actors. Gambill, who moved to Massachusetts 18 months ago after living in Los Angeles, noted she was looking for a way to get back involved in community theater when she came upon information about Springfield Community Theater of MA. As the saying goes, You work in theater not for the money, but because you love it and are passionate about it, which is especially true for community theater where these are not paid positions. You must love it to do it and my heart has always been in it. One of the best things for me was being on stage, but now I really feel better seeing my cast shine on stage and take pride in making them look and be their best on stage, Gambill said. Eddie Sierra and Jocelyn Rivera as Rooster Hannigan and Lily St Regis for the Springfield Community Theater of MA production of "Annie." (Sophie Markham) Sophie Markham Her daughter, Ashley Gambill, is resident choreographer for the new theater and is no stranger to the stage. She began her training in California and continued when she moved to London with her family in 2013. She has attended masterclasses at the famous Pineapple Dance Studios in London as well as OpenJar Studios in New York City and is a graduate of the esteemed Orange County School of the Arts in Southern California where she graduated with honors from the Musical Theatre Conservatory. She currently attends Pace University in New York where she is earning her BFA in Film, Television, Voiceover and Commercials. She can be seen in the upcoming film The Vast Lonesome. Learn more about the film @vastlonesomemovie on Instagram or on IMDB. This is full circle for the both of us, Gambill said about her daughter, who performed as the orphan July in Annie 10 years ago at the Arts Theatre in the West End of London. Angela Park, who is executive director of 52 Sumner, is serving as producer of the play. Tickets, priced at $16-$23, are available online at 52sumner.com, where additional information is available about upcoming events and future Springfield Community Theater of MA productions. For information on the nonprofit theater, visit springfield-community-theater-of-ma.org. The AT&T logo is positioned above one of its retail stores in New York, Oct. 24, 2016. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File) AP After two data breaches in recent years, which exposed personal information of AT&T customers, the company is expected to dish out a settlement pay out. U.S. District Judge Ada Brown granted preliminary approval to the terms of two proposed settlement funds from AT&T, according to court records filed on June 20. This move aims to resolve class action lawsuits stemming from two data incidents that exposed personal information of AT&T customers. AT&T intends on starting the claim process on Aug. 4, according to CNET. The settlement includes a $149 million fund for a data incident related to a dataset from 2019 or earlier, which AT&T confirmed in March 2024. A separate $28 million fund is designated for another AT&T data incident which occurred in April 2024. The total settlement payment across both incidents is $177 million, the records state. While AT&T admitted no wrongdoing in these events, the company confirmed their decision to settle. While we deny the allegations in these lawsuits that we were responsible for these criminal acts, we have agreed to this settlement to avoid the expense and uncertainty of protracted litigation, AT&T told MassLive. We remain committed to protecting our customers data and ensuring their continued trust in us. The 2019 data incident, discovered on the dark web in March 2024, contained information for approximately 7.6 million current account holders and 65.4 million former account holders at the time. This data exposed sensitive information such as full names, email addresses, mailing address, phone numbers, dates of birth and AT&T account numbers. The 2024 data incident, which became publicly known around July 2024, involved a third-party cloud data platform (reportedly Snowflake), which exposed call and text records for nearly all AT&T customers between May 2022 and October 2022 and some records from January 2023. About 109 million U.S. customers were involved, according to CNET. Customers impacted by either incident will receive notices via email and/or written notification that will include instructions on how to file a claim. The deadline to opt out or object to the settlements will be Oct. 17, the records state. The deadline to submit claim forms is Nov. 18 of this year. Payments are expected to commence in early 2026. The highest payments for those impacted by the first breach are $5,000, CNET reported. The top payment for the second breach is $2,500. Remaining funds would then be distributed to others who were impacted. A final approval hearing for the case has been set for Dec. 3. AT&T did not respond to MassLives request for comment. Harmony Montgomerys mother sued the girls father, Adam Montgomery, who is already in prison after a jury convicted him last year of killing their daughter. Crystal Sorey filed a wrongful death lawsuit on Monday, the second one shes filed since Harmonys death, the Boston Globe reported. Soreys latest lawsuit names Adam Montgomery and said he caused Harmony to be in pain and suffer, ultimately leading to her death. Five-year-old Harmony Montgomery was beaten to death by her father, Adam Montgomery, in December 2019. From the time Harmony was placed with her father in February 2019 until the date of her death in December 2019, Harmony endured breathtaking abuse and neglect by her father, leading ultimately to Harmonys homicide, Soreys lawsuit, obtained by WCVB-TV, read. Sorey previously filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the state of New Hampshire, which stated that the Division for Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) ignored warning signs that led to Harmonys death. In May 2025, the state agreed to settle the lawsuit and pay Sorey $2,250,000. Adam Montgomery was sentenced in May 2024 to 56 years in prison after he was found guilty of beating Harmony Montgomery to death in December 2019. Adam Montgomery was awarded custody of Harmony Montgomery earlier that year. Her body has never been found. Harvard University is open to a potential $500 million settlement as a means of ending the months-long battle with the Trump administration, according to The New York Times. The potential deal, based on interviews with four unnamed sources familiar with the negotiations, comes after Columbia University agreed to pay the federal government over $220 million in order to reinstate its federal grants and end investigations. President Donald Trump has been pushing for Harvard to pay more than Columbia throughout the deal discussions, according to the outlet. Despite Harvards willingness, officials at the negotiating table remain reluctant to pay the federal government money and allow an outside monitor to determine whether they are complying, The New York Times reported. The timing of a potential deal is unclear. A Harvard spokesperson didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. The talk of a settlement comes after Trump publicly announced in June that the federal government was in talks with Harvard over a mindbogglingly HISTORIC deal that would occur over the next week or so. Following the announcement, the Trump administration threatened to cut all funding from Harvard after finding that it violated civil rights law, stating that antisemitism has been able to fester on Harvards campus and has led a once great institution to humiliation. It also comes at a time when the university has two federal lawsuits against the Trump administration over the federal stripping $2.6 billion of its federal dollars and the other challenges the Trump administrations attack on Harvards ability to host and enroll international students. Last week, Judge Allison D. Burroughs characterized a Trump administration argument as a little bit mind-boggling. While she hasnt issued a decision on the case yet, she pushed back on whether the federal government could cancel grants across the institution en masse without substantially proving that researchers or labs had engaged in antisemitism. Trump, for his part, took to Truth Social to take aim at Burroughs that same day, calling her a TOTAL DISASTER and an automatic loss for the People of our Country. He also said the federal government would appeal her decision when she ruled in the universitys favor. What has happened between the Trump admin and Harvard? The Trump administration has gone after Harvard since April, cutting billions of dollars. Demanding an overhaul of Harvards leadership structure, admissions and hiring the federal government warned the school could risk losing $9 billion in funding. Harvard rejected those demands, stating they seek to invade university freedoms long recognized by the Supreme Court. Then the fight over funding occurred. It began with a $2.2 billion funding freeze on April 14 after the school refused to comply with the federal administrations demands. In response, Harvard filed a lawsuit on April 21, arguing that its constitutional rights had been violated by the governments threats to pull billions of dollars in funding. Harvard President Alan Garber also signed onto a letter with hundreds of other university presidents pushing back against government overreach and political interference by the Trump administration. At the beginning of May, the Trump administration said it would bar Harvard University from acquiring new federal grants while the school continues to refuse to comply with the administrations demands for change on its campus. A few days later, eight federal agencies cut $450 million in grants and then the United States Department of Health and Human Services cut $60 million in grants from the university. Harvard went on to amend its lawsuit against the Trump administration. On May 16, a wave of nearly one thousand federal research grant terminations began, amounting to more than $2.4 billion, according to an analysis by Nature. In response, Harvard established a new Presidential Priorities Fund, asking for donations in the midst of federal cuts. Some of Harvards schools, including its School of Public Health, took to social media to ask for donations after nearly every single federal grant had been terminated. Other investigations and threats have been made against the institution, some of which have also focused on threatening the universitys ability to enroll international students. That is what the universitys second lawsuit is about. Most recently, the State Department opened an investigation into Harvard Universitys use of international visas. The Department of Homeland Security has also subpoenaed Harvard over its failure to provide documents concerning the misconduct or criminal actions of foreign students. For Halloween, General Mills is bringing back its beloved lineup of monsters cereals, but with a monstrously fun makeover. In a special collaboration to honor The Jim Henson Companys 70th anniversary, Count Chocula, Boo Berry and Franken Berry have been reimagined with a puppet-inspired look from Jim Hensons Creature Shop. For 70 years, The Jim Henson Company has brought some of the worlds most memorable and adored characters to life and our incredible team at Jim Hensons Creature Shop especially enjoyed realizing these beloved Monsters as puppets for the first time ever, Nicole Goldman, executive vice president of branding for The Jim Henson Company wrote in a statement. This irreverent and funny take on these well-known characters will make this Halloween especially memorable for the amazing and loyal fans of both Monsters Cereals and The Jim Henson Company. Starting Oct. 7, fans can start grabbing this years limited-edition cereal boxes that will be available exclusively on Walmarts website for $7.70. The box designs showcase Count Chocula, Boo Berry and Franken Berry as classic puppets, complete with large expressive eyes and fuzzy textures that give them the distinctive handcrafted feel of Jim Hensons iconic creatures, such as those seen in The Muppet Show and Labyrinth. On the back of the box, there is an explanation of how the team from Jim Hensons Creature Shop brought the new designs to life. Additionally, merch and collectibles that commemorate this partnership can also be found on Jim Hensons website. This is more than a cereal box, its a piece of art, Mindy Murray, brand experience director for morning foods at General Mills said in the press release. We know that fans have an incredible love for Monsters and anticipate their return every year. Thats why we knew the partnership with The Jim Henson Company was the perfect way to deliver surprise and delight and the first-of-its-kind fuzzy Franken Berry box. The monsters cereal debuted in 1971 and were originally available all year round. It wasnt until 2009 when General Mills made the breakfast foods a limited-time offering, available around the fall for the Halloween season. Karen Read's Lexus SUV is loaded onto a tow truck to be taken away from 34 Fairview Road in Canton in April 2025. Charlie McKenna/MassLive Now that shes beaten the criminal charges against her, Karen Read wants her cell phone and SUV back. Read, who was acquitted a month ago on murder charges, filed a motion Monday asking a judge to force prosecutors to immediately return her personal cell phone and Lexus SUV. Both had been taken as evidence after the January 2022 death of Reads boyfriend, Boston Police officer John OKeefe. The defense motion was filed in Norfolk Superior Court on Monday, according to the motion obtained by NBC 10 Boston. The motion states that Reads defense attorney, Steven Boozang, tried to negotiate with Assistant District Attorney Adam Lally about returning the phone and her 2021 Lexus LX 570 in late June, the news station wrote. Read was acquitted on June 18 of OKeefes death at the end of a second murder trial. With Massachusetts State Police in possession of her phone and SUV, Read and Boozang have not heard back from Lally, prompting them to request the return of her phone and SUV immediately, the motion read. Reads SUV and phone had roles to play during her murder trial, with prosecutors making the case that she used her SUV to strike and kill OKeefe. Data on her phone was used during the case. Read faced charges, including second-degree murder, and prosecutors accused her of hitting OKeefe with her SUV outside a Canton home in January 2022. Her first trial in June 2024 ended in a mistrial, but the jury in her second trial found her not guilty of all charges except driving under the influence of liquor in June 2025. Tools formed to make a cross hung above a growing memorial of flowers, heartfelt notes and a single cigar. The memorial was for Joshua Mizula-Samson, 17, of Hatfield, who died in a Deerfield crash Sunday morning. You were a bright light in everyones life, one message at the memorial read. A car driven by the teenage boy rolled over and struck a fire hydrant on Greenfield Road in Deerfield, Northwestern District Attorney David Sullivans office said. The teenager had a passenger with him, who was taken to Baystate Medical Center in Springfield with non-life-threatening injuries, Sullivans office said. Deerfield police, Massachusetts State Police detectives with Sullivans office and the State Police troopers with the Crime Scene Services Section and the Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section are investigating the crash. Mizula-Samson was identified by friends and family in a GoFundMe. He went to Smith Vocational School in Northampton and was studying to become an automotive technician. He loved working on his trucks and cars, hanging out with his friends, and fishing down on the river, the GoFundMe stated. A sharpie was used to write messages to Mizula-Samson at the scene with the GoFundMe encouraging people to stop by the memorial. Love ya forever buddy, one message read. I love you Josh, another message read. Heaven gained an angel, a third message read. A funeral service is being planned with the money raised by the GoFundMe. Our deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers go out to Ashley and the entire Mizula family, the GoFundMe reads. Gone too soon, but never forgotten." Six Maryland women are facing charges after breaking into a Norwood home and getting into a car chase with police last week, according to Norwood police. Mirabela Caldarau, 42, Jajela Chiciu, 41, Flavia Cladararu, 22, Emilia Sardaru, 36, Mihaela Ion, 33, and Elizabeth Sardaru, 21, have been charged with breaking and entering during the daytime to commit a felony, conspiracy to commit a felony, possession of burglarious instruments and resisting arrest, the police department said in a Tuesday press release. On July 25, officers responded to a home on Neponset Street around 12:30 p.m. for a report of a break-in, police said. At the scene, the residents of the home told them theyd returned home to find the women inside. After being confronted, the women fled in a vehicle that was waiting outside the home, the homes residents said. Shortly after, an officer noticed a vehicle matching the victims description of the suspect vehicle, police said. The officer tried to pull the vehicle over, but the driver did not stop. After a brief car chase, the six suspects got out of the vehicle on Dean Street and ran away into a nearby wooded area, police said. The officer chased after one suspect and was able to apprehend her. Other officers soon responded to the scene and established a perimeter around the area, police said. A plain-clothed officers soon noticed several of the suspects behind a Pleasant Street business, but they fled when he approached them. That officer and another officer chased after them and managed to apprehend two more suspects. A fourth officer managed to apprehend two more suspects as they tried to flee across a nearby river with the help of a Walpole police detective, police said. The sixth and final suspect was apprehended soon after. During booking, two of the suspects were found to have obscured or altered fingerprints, making it difficult to identify them, police said. But with the help of Homeland Security Investigations, Norwood police eventually identified all six suspects and discovered that they all had several active warrants from other states in connection with similar crimes. The preliminary investigation indicates that the suspects are part of an organized group engaged in similar criminal activity across multiple states, police said. All six are related to one another and to the two men who were taken into ICE custody. Norwood police are still investigating the suspects and working with law enforcement agencies in other states to aid their related investigations, police said. The department asks that anyone with information about the suspects or the group they belong to call Detective Ryan Marchant at 339-364-9632. A Vietnam War veteran who died in the Gabriel House Assisted Living Residence fire in Fall River earlier this month is being remembered by his friends and family. Richard Allan Rochon, 78, died in the July 13 fire, which also took the lives of 9 other residents of the Oliver Street home. Thirty other residents were injured by the blaze, and the rest of the homes approximately 70 residents were temporarily displaced. Rochon was born in Fall River on June 26, 1947, to Roland and Eunice Rochon, according to his obituary. His life was a canvas colored with vibrant strokes of love, resilience, and a unique sense of humor. Rochon served in the U.S. Army for several years, including overseas during the Vietnam War, according to his obituary. He ultimately earned Vietnam Service and National Defense medals for his service. Following his time in the military, Rochon worked in maintenance as a groundskeeper at Temple Beth El in Providence for many years, according to his obituary. He also enjoyed working as a self-employed painter on the side. One of Richards daughters fondest memories was when he taught them how to paint when they bought their home, his obituary reads. Rochon was known for being quite the storyteller, according to his obituary. He often enjoyed surprising people by recounting the most exciting moments of his life. He had a contagious laugh that could be recognized anywhere, his obituary reads. Rochon was also passionate about celebrating holidays, according to his obituary. When they were children, he made his daughters wear the most ridiculous red velvet dresses for Christmas. He especially loved Halloween and Thanksgiving! He loved building props to transform our yard for the trick-or-treaters and made a mean bird for Thanksgiving! his obituary reads. But Rochons true passions were fishing, racing and tinkering with cars, according to his obituary. If he wasnt under the hood of a car, you could find him by a body of water with a fishing rod in his hand, his obituary reads. Rochon leaves behind two of his three daughters, six grandchildren, four of his six siblings and many other beloved friends and family members, according to his obituary. His life was a masterpiece, and we are all the richer for having been a part of it, his obituary reads. A memorial visitation for Rochon is set to be held Saturday, Aug. 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Southcoast Funeral Home in Fall River, Massachusetts, his obituary says. A presentation of U.S. Military Honors and a Celebration of Life is scheduled to follow at 3 p.m. that day, complete with funeral bagpipes. Opinion / Columnist In the hallowed halls of academia, a doctorate stands as a towering monument to intellectual endurance, sleepless nights, existential crises, and a few thousand cups of coffee brewed stronger than most relationships. In Zimbabwe, however, a new form of doctorate has emerged - not grounded in research or professional rigor, but rather in the noble art of fabrication. A bold, brash doctorate for the terminally underqualified but terminally ambitious. Call it the Doctor of Pretendology (Dr.P) - Zimbabwe's fastest-growing academic epidemic.Forget PhDs, MDs, JDs, or even the respectable honorary degrees granted by actual universities. Enter the Doctor of Dandemutande - conferred via WhatsApp group consensus, awarded by non-existent universities, and printed on laserjet printers fueled by ego and ignorance.Leading this parade of intellectual impostors are the usual suspects: Dr. Kuda Tagwirei, Dr. Killer Zivhu, Dr. Walter Mzembi, Dr. Delish Nguwaya - names that send chills down the spines of real scholars, who spent years breaking their backs only to have their titles hijacked by men who couldn't spell "dissertation" without divine intervention.These men are not doctors in the traditional sense. No thesis was written, no viva endured, and certainly no research committee ever rubber-stamped their doctoral dreams. Instead, their degrees were plucked from the vines of self-delusion and fermented in the barrels of borrowed prestige. One wonders if their doctoral hoods were tailored by Gucci or delivered via DHL from a dubious "University of Excellence" located behind a Chicken Inn in downtown Harare.Make no mistake: this is not satire. This is Zimbabwe in 2025.The Great Academic Robbery:Doctorates, for centuries, were the final frontier of scholarship. A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) signifies that one has contributed new knowledge to humanity. But in Zimbabwe, the only knowledge being contributed is the art of shameless self-promotion. It is as though the moment you steal enough fuel, rig enough tenders, or post enough TikTok videos, you unlock a new academic level: "Congratulations! You are now a Doctor of Loot."It would be laughable if it weren't so grotesque. When "Dr." Nguwaya - with no known academic background beyond Facebook Live monologues - receives a "doctorate in philanthropy," one must ask: where is the philanthropy? What exactly was studied? Did he write a thesis titled "The Role of Imported Hospital Beds in Nation Building"?These degrees aren't honorary - they're horrific.The Third Kind of Doctorate:In the academic world, there are two main kinds of doctorates: Research and Professional. But in Zimbabwe, we have pioneered a third: the Transactional Doctorate. This is awarded not for knowledge gained, but for networks exploited. A doctorate that rewards corruption disguised as leadership, where the only dissertation written is on the back of a brown envelope.This new degree doesn't require research, only receipts - mostly from offshore accounts. It doesn't require supervision, only political protection. And viva? The only "viva" is the new V8 Land Cruiser bought after a dubious gold deal.They have invented a degree where the library is the bank, the seminar is a press conference, and peer review is replaced with political praise-singing.Academia for Sale: The Rise of Degree CartelsThis isn't just a national embarrassment - it's a full-blown black-market economy. Dubious institutions with names like "Commonwealth International University of Peace and Unity" and "Global Excellence Leadership Academy" spring up overnight like mushrooms after a rain of mediocrity. Their websites sparkle with stock photos of happy graduates in borrowed gowns, offering degrees in everything from "Transformational Leadership" to "Visionary Empowerment."They prey on the powerful but insecure - the man with millions but no credentials, the woman with clout but no coursework. These fake degrees are more than vanity projects - they're status weapons. In a nation where titles open doors, "Dr." is the golden key. It says: respect me, fear me, give me the tender.Meanwhile, Real Doctors Suffer:While fake doctors collect awards and address conferences on topics they barely understand, real PhDs sit unemployed. Real medical doctors go months without pay. Professors who spent decades in labs and lecture halls are ignored in favor of a flamboyant tenderpreneur with a doctorate in "Strategic Empowerment from the United Pan-African Leadership Initiative of West Indiana."The irony? These fake doctors, in their tailored suits and tinted Prados, would not last five minutes in a real academic defense. Ask them to define epistemology, and they'll accuse you of witchcraft.Stealing Titles, Stealing Truth:Zimbabwe's fake doctorate craze is not just about fraud. It's about a deeper disease: the theft of aspiration. These impostors do not just steal titles - they steal dreams. They teach young Zimbabweans that you don't have to work, research, or learn. You just have to be connected. That knowledge is not earned - it is downloaded via political favoritism and pseudo-ceremonial showmanship.This is not just academic theft. It is cultural vandalism.A National Detox Is Overdue:We need a national database of accredited doctorates. A degree vetting commission. Public shaming, even. Let's start with a simple test: if you can't name your supervisor, defend your thesis, or describe your research methodology - congratulations, you're not a doctor. You're just Dr. Delusion.We need satire. We need memes. We need mock graduation ceremonies where these fake doctors receive fake diplomas wrapped in newspaper and old bond notes. We need to make ignorance as unfashionable as fake Gucci.Final Prescription: Academic Humility:To those who parade fake titles, here's your prognosis: the only cure is honesty. Return your fake diplomas. Remove the title. Leave "Dr." to those who have actually read books thicker than your bank statements.Knowledge is not a costume. You can't wear it like a Rolex. You earn it - with sweat, discipline, and curiosity. Until then, spare us the charade.Because in Zimbabwe, we don't need more doctors of nothing. We need more thinkers of something. As President Donald Trump continues to talk about his relationship with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, one word Trump used in particular stirred outrage online. While meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland on Monday, Trump took questions from reporters and was asked if he had ever visited Epsteins island, Little St. James in the Virgin Islands. The island is where Epstein, a convicted sex offender, is suspected of sexually abusing girls under 18. Trump repeatedly said he never went to the island and claimed former President Bill Clinton went to the island supposedly 28 times. I never had the privilege of going to his island, and I did turn it down, but a lot of people in Palm Beach were invited to his island, Trump continued. In one of my very good moments, I turned it down. I didnt want to go to his island. Trumps use of the word privilege ignited social media, with critics slamming his use of the word in connection with the notorious island. Trump is burying himself #Trumpstein, political commentator Keith Olbermann posted on X. Religious and political commentator Hemant Mehta sarcastically reacted to Trumps words. He wrote on X that its truly a privilege to get invited to Epstein Island. Trump might not have had the privilege of going to the island, but he didnt mind hopping on Epsteins private jet or partying with him, NowThis Impact, a progressive social media page, stated while reacting to Trumps remark in an X post. In her own X post, political writer Sarah Burris kept her reaction brief: Really? Privilege? Epsteins name has been in the news in the weeks after the Department of Justice and the FBI released an unsigned memo stating that Epstein committed suicide in a Manhattan prison in 2019, despite conspiracy theories suggesting he was murdered, and that he did not have a client list with the names of high-profile people, supposedly including Clinton and Trump, on that list. As Trump has continued to distance himself from Epstein, Attorney General Pam Bondi told Trump in May that his name was included in the Epstein files multiple times, the Wall Street Journal reported last week. Trump also said he could pardon Epsteins convicted associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence on sexual abuse charges. Maxwells name has come up as a bipartisan subcommittee of lawmakers on Capitol Hill is drafting a subpoena to the Justice Department to release more information that it has on Epstein. As the parameters of the subpoena are drafted, Democrats are demanding that it be fulfilled within 30 days from when it is served to Bondi. They have also proposed a list of document demands, including the prosecutorial decisions surrounding Epstein, documents related to his death, and communication from any president or executive official regarding the matter. Reporting from the Associated Press contributed to this story. Renters and housing advocates stage a demonstration at the Massachusetts State House in support of rent control on Tuesday, July 29. Trea Lavery/MassLive Renters from across Massachusetts are asking legislators not for the first time to implement rent control or rent stabilization as they struggle under the spiraling cost of rent. At the State House on Tuesday, tenants and advocates held a demonstration calling for rent control before flooding a Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government hearing to share their stories of housing instability. Judy Holmes of Springfield said last month that she received a letter from her landlord letting her know the rent would be going up by $400 come September. She has until the end of August to decide if she will accept the increase. This is my home and Im worried I will have to leave, Holmes said. A rent increase like that is unaffordable to me. I dont know many people in Springfield that could handle that. Rent control was banned in Massachusetts in 1994 by a ballot question. Renters, advocates and legislators have repeatedly tried to reinstate it, without success. State Sen. Pat Jehlen, D-2nd Middlesex, Rep. Sam Montano, D-15th Suffolk, and Rep. David Rogers, D-24th Middlesex, filed bills this session that would give cities and towns the option to implement rent stabilization locally, capping annual increases. The bills would not institute rent control statewide. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median gross rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Massachusetts was $1,882 in 2023, up from $1,727 the year before and $1,381 in 2018. Jehlen said Tuesday that the only way she had been able to afford her Somerville home when she bought it was because the city still had rent control at the time, so she was able to save money for a down payment. Annie Gordon, a Mattapan resident, said the apartment building where she has lived for 50 years was purchased six years ago, and the previously affordable rents went up considerably. Gordons home, Fairlawn Estates, was eventually purchased by another company, with financial help from the city of Boston. The new owners promised to keep the rents affordable and rent-controlled permanently. But before that, Gordon said, she and her fellow tenants were treated like criminals for fighting back against the rent increases. Rent control would give us protection from this and unfair rent increases and a rigged market and not punish good or small landlords, she said. Everyone in Massachusetts deserves to live with security and dignity, have hope, and not live in fear of eviction. Annie Gordon of Mattapan speaks during a demonstration at the Massachusetts State House in support of rent control on Tuesday, July 29. Trea Lavery/MassLive A number of cities and towns have tried to pass local rent control without success. In 2023, the Boston City Council and Somerville City Council each approved home rule petitions to reintroduce rent control, and Brookline approved its own petition at town meeting, but the proposals all failed to make it through the state Legislature. A proposed ballot question that same year, which also would have legalized rent control, did not make it onto the ballot. Much of the opposition to rent stabilization comes from real estate and landlord groups, who argue that it would decrease the incentive to construct new housing, which they say is a better way to bring prices down. Tony Lopes, a landlord in the Boston area, made that argument during Tuesdays hearing, saying rent control was the wrong tool for solving the housing crisis. The outcome will be fewer available units, deteriorated housing conditions and owners walking away from reinvestment in old housing stock that needs care, he said. And it penalizes the small property owners who make up 60% or more of the commonwealths rental market, including the immigrant and minority property owners who are seeking to get ahead. Supporters, however, disavowed that argument. Jehlen said building more housing to increase the supply of available units was important for bringing prices down, but it wouldnt be enough to help renters who need assistance now. People are saying to us, the law of supply and demand is all we need. The law of supply and demand has run up against the facts of life, she said. We need immediate solutions. This is it. Renters and housing advocates stage a demonstration at the Massachusetts State House in support of rent control on Tuesday, July 29. Trea Lavery/MassLive Envy Thomas, a Springfield mother and recent high school graduate, said she has struggled to find an affordable place to live for herself and her son. She works full-time at a minimum wage job, but is unable to find anything in her price range. Thomas said that even if she finds an affordable place, she is afraid shell be stuck in the same position a year from now due to the possibility of rent hikes. She recalled moving around a lot growing up, and said she wanted a better experience for her son. Every time we were forced to leave, it felt like walking into the unknown, she said. Even if I were to move into a place I can afford today, it doesnt mean I can set down roots. There is no security in an affordable apartment today, because tomorrow the rent can go up $500 or more. As the Red Sox seek to bolster their rotation, theyve reportedly gotten on the phone with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Boston has inquired about right-handed starter Mitch Keller, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazettes Noah Hiles. The 29-year-old has posted a 3.69 ERA in 22 starts this season, but is 4-10 pitching for a Pittsburgh team that sits dead last in runs scored. Multiple teams still remain interested, with the Yankees, Cubs, Mets and Red Sox all having reached out, Hiles writes. The Pirates could also look to move Keller this offseason, a notion one source claims could give the club better odds of landing an established big-league hitter in return." Keller is in the second season of a five-year, $77 million deal, so hes under team control through 2028 with a luxury tax hit of $15.4 million per season. An All-Star in 2023, Keller has spent his entire seven-year career in Pittsburgh, going 40-60 with a 4.45 ERA and 1.381 WHIP. His most utilized pitch is a four-seam fastball, which has averaged 94 mph this season, while he also mixes in a sweeper, slider, two-seamer, curveball and changeup. Kellers 3.69 ERA would rank the third best in Bostons rotation this year, trailing just Garrett Crochet (2.23) and Brayan Bello (3.32). Bostons rotational depth has been tested, as Tanner Houck, Kutter Crawford, Hunter Dobbins, and Patrick Sandoval have all landed on the injured list. MINNEAPOLIS The Red Sox might find themselves short on bullpen arms in Mondays series opener against the Twins, in part because of a very turbulent flight to Minneapolis on Sunday night. Bostons charter, which left Logan Airport hours after Sundays win over the Dodgers, encountered severe weather in the Midwest that left several members of the traveling party reeling due to motion sickness. The plane, which departed Boston around 7:30 p.m. ET, didnt land at MinneapolisSaint Paul International Airport until around midnight CT (1 am ET). The trip included a quick diversion to Detroit, where the charter landed for a short period before taking off again, then landing in Minnesota through turbulence and weather. Rough flight last night, said manager Alex Cora. Very rough. For them. I dont know, I slept through it. There were a lot of people banged up after that flight. We had to go through Detroit and then come here. When we got to Detroit, I fell asleep and all of the sudden, we were here. But it was pretty tough over there. Multiple players were still not feeling 100% when they arrived at Target Field before Mondays 6:40 p.m. CT start. One was Garrett Whitlock, who walked gingerly through the visitors clubhouse with an IV line in. Cora acknowledged the team was unsure if Whitlock would be able to pitch against the Twins. Well see how he feels, Cora said. Theres stuff you cant control. He had a rough morning, a rough night. Hes going to play catch right now, so well decide. In addition to the after-effects of what one team broadcaster called the worst flight of his life, the Red Sox are also down an arm or two because of developments in Sundays win. BETTING: For Tuesdays game versus Minnesota, Red Sox -1.5 runline is listed at +140 on For Tuesdays game versus Minnesota, Red Sox -1.5 runline is listed at +140 on Caesars . If you want to find out more about how to bet on sports, check out our Massachusetts sports betting guide Closer Aroldis Chapman, who departed in the eighth inning due to back spasms, is unavailable Monday, Cora acknowledged. The All-Star is still on track to avoid the injured list. Hes doing OK, said Cora. Well stay away from him. Hes getting treatment and all that. Should be one or two days. Were in a good spot. Cora also acknowledged the iffy availability of righty Jordan Hicks, who threw 25 pitches to record a five-out save in Chapmans absence. Well talk about it. But I think were in a good spot regardless, Cora said. With a few key relievers potentially not available, the Red Sox would benefit from a good and long start from rookie righty Richard Fitts. Fitts struggled in his last outing Wednesday in Philadelphia, allowing four runs on six hits (including two homers) in just 3 innings. That outing marked Fitts first time facing competition in 15 days. The Sox hope being on a regular turn will help him be more effective. Two or three weeks without throwing at any level is not easy, Cora said. He did his best that day. Hopefully, he can find his rhythm and give us more. Go out there and compete. Use your fastball the right way, use your secondary pitches and give us five or six innings. A hot and humid day in Massachusetts could beget another on Tuesday, as the heat is expected to peak that day with heat indices likely leaving conditions feeling hotter. Combined with minimal cloud cover, heat indices should leave much of the state feeling 5 degrees hotter or more, according to the National Weather Service. Heat indices could leave Worcester and Springfield feeling like its between 100 and 105 degrees, the weather service said in a post on X. Bostons could be lower, feeling like between 95 and 100 degrees. Around the Cape, heat indices could feel like the 90s. Heat indices rise to between 95 and 100+ degrees for the next few afternoons. The most intense heat will occur on Tuesday afternoon, however, conditions will still be dangerous for those working outdoors for prolonged periods of time this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/JGbOYzzI0Z NWS Boston (@NWSBoston) July 28, 2025 During this time, an ongoing Heat Advisory will be in effect covering most of Massachusetts except for the Cape and Islands and Berkshire County. In effect since 11 a.m. Monday, its expected to last until 8 p.m. on Wednesday. "Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors, forecasters wrote. Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke." While the high heat and humidity should wane on Wednesday, some unsettled weather that day could bring thunderstorms back to the region, forecasters said. But before this happens, daytime highs could see heat indices leave temperatures feeling like the mid- to high 90s instead of the 100s during the day. The timing for Wednesday and Thursdays potentially stormy weather remains unclear to forecasters. The arrival of a cold front toward northern/Central Massachusetts could produce widespread showers and thunderstorms south of the Massachusetts Turnpike. Precipitable water levels could be between 1.6 to 2 inches, roughly between 150 and 160% above normal. While the exact timing and location of storm formation is still up in the air, confidence is increasing in seeing high rainfall totals Thursday, forecasters wrote. Once the showers move out Friday morning, [were] expecting a much cooler (and drier) airmass to push into southern New England, allowing for a break in the high heat and humidity. By Friday, conditions could reach cooler levels with highs in the 70s during the day, forecasters said. BLANDFORD He carved tools with precision and fought for a nation that barely acknowledged him. Now, Jethro Jones Revolutionary War veteran and one of the earliest known African American toolmakers will be honored with a historic marker in the town he called home. The marker, to be unveiled this October in Blandford, is the result of years of research and advocacy by local historians and descendants who sought to bring Joness story to light, said Mary Hull, the registrar of Mercy Warren Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, in a statement. More than 100 people attended the Southwick-Tolland-Granville Regional School District School Committee in March 2024 after racial bullying incident. (Frederick Gore / Special to The Republican, File) Frederick Gore SOUTHWICK More than a year after a bullied student forced the community to confront racism in the schools, a lawsuit now accuses the Southwick district of allowing racial harassment to persist unchecked. The suit filed Friday in Hampden Superior Court by the Boston-based group Lawyers for Civil Rights claims that the Southwick-Tolland-Granville Regional School District failed to protect a middle schooler from repeated racial harassment by classmates. One of best-loved venues in North Mayo, Paddy Macs, has officially been named a finalist in the 2025 Bar of the Year Awards, securing a place in the highly competitive Peoples Choice Award Best Bar in Connacht/Ulster category. This years awards attracted over a record-breaking 1000 entries from across the country. Following months of rigorous assessment and intense deliberation, only the finest bars have made it through as finalists, placing Paddy Macs firmly among Irelands top-tier hospitality venues. Organisers of the Bar of the Year Awards described this years competition as the most competitive to date, stating: We are excited to honour the exceptional talents and extraordinary venues chosen as finalists. These trailblazers have continually elevated the industry, creating unforgettable experiences and setting new standards of excellence. READ MORE: 'Honoured and humbled' - Mayo venue is 'Irish Whiskey Bar of the Year' For the team at Paddy Macs in Ballina, the nomination is both a huge honour and a proud moment for the wider Ballina community. Family-run and locally cherished, Paddy Macs has long been a cornerstone of the towns social scene, a place where locals and visitors alike are welcomed with warmth, a great pint, and a genuine atmosphere. To be named a finalist among so many fantastic bars is incredibly special, said Michael Carr of Paddy Macs. Were so grateful for the support weve had over the years. Winning the Peoples Choice Award would be the ultimate thank you to our amazing customers and community. The overall winners will be announced at a prestigious ceremony on Monday, August 18, at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin while celebrating the best and brightest in Irish hospitality. To support Paddy Macs and help bring the award home to Ballina, click here. Scroll down to the Peoples Choice Award Best Bar in Connacht/Ulster section and select Paddy Macs. WORLD renowned Irish musician Sharon Shannon officially opened Scoil Acla 2025 on Sunday evening last in Ostan Oilean Acla, launching a special week that marks the 40th anniversary of the revival of the summer school in 1985. The week began with a special Mass broadcast live on RTE Raidio na Gaeltachta, followed by the official opening which featured performances from the Golden Eagle Pipe Band, Siansa Gael Linn winners Seoda, and this years Artist in Residence, Tom Doherty. The evening was rounded off with a sold-out, show-stopping concert by Sharon Shannon and her band, which set the tone for what promises to be a vibrant and memorable week ahead. Classes got underway on Monday morning across the island, with students of all ages taking part in music, Gaeilge, creative writing and more. That evening, a large crowd gathered for a lecture by Dr Edward King on the life and work of Darrell Figgis, an important figure in Achills political and cultural history. READ: Picturesque Mayo Island named eighth-most beautiful island in world On Tuesday, a sold-out Trath na gCeist (table quiz) will bring the community together for what promises to be a lively and entertaining night. Wednesday will feature a flute and whistle masterclass at 2.30pm with Des Cafferkey, former Artist in Residence. A special storytelling workshop will take place at Keel Community Hall that evening, followed by the annual recital in St Thomass Church at 8.30pm. The night continues with session trails and adult-only sessions across local pubs. Celebration THURSDAY will see the colourful Hata Acla Competition return to Teds in Cashel from 5.30pm, followed by the major 40th anniversary celebration event, Scoil Acla 40 Bliain ar Aghaidh, which will also see a presentation to Paddy Ryan, alongside the launch of his new book of tunes which will be officiated by Comhaltas President, Attracta Brady, this special event takes place in Ostan Oilean Acla at 8pm with refreshments served from 6.30pm. On Friday, classes and workshops continue, including a drumming workshop in Gieltys. The weeks Festival Concert will take place in the Wavecrest at 8pm featuring Scoil Acla tutors and friends and is expected to draw a large crowd as always. Saturday will close out the week with the annual Aeriocht outdoor concert at Lourdies, in Dooagh at 12 noon, featuring performances and participation from tutors, students, and the wider community - a fitting end to what promises to be one of Scoil Aclas most memorable years to date. Special year SPEAKING at the opening, Sarah Calvey, Cathaoirleach of Scoil Acla, said: This is a special year for Scoil Acla - 40 years since the revival of our summer school in 1985. Its a time to reflect on how far weve come, but also to look ahead. The energy, talent and pride shown by everyone taking part this week, from tutors and students to our guests and volunteers - proves that our culture is not just alive, but thriving. Scoil Acla has always been about community, creativity and connection, and its heartening to see those values stronger than ever. Were incredibly proud of what weve built here together in Achill, she said. Trad sessions and more take place across the island for all ages and abilities. Full programme details are available in Scoil Aclas official programme which is on sale locally and at events throughout the week. Follow Scoil Acla on social media to keep up-to-date. Farm Vets Balla is set to open its doors to the public next month as the towns first-ever veterinary practice. Opening to the public on Tuesday, August 5, the practice will offer a full suite of large animal veterinary services and round-the-clock care to the regions farming community. Located on the grounds of Western Farming Co-op in Lognamuck, Balla, Co Mayo, the practice is independently owned and operated by Shane Mc Carvill, a well-known and experienced veterinary surgeon in the county. The practice is dedicated exclusively to farm animals, including cattle, sheep, horses, and donkeys across the region, providing a vital 24-hour service, including routine and emergency animal care, herd health planning, and TB testing services, among others. READ MORE: Picturesque Mayo Island named eighth-most beautiful island in world Mc Carvill said Farm Vets Balla arises from a very real and growing need for accessible, independent veterinary support for farmers. Speaking ahead of the opening, he says: Were exclusively focused on farm animals. That allows us to give 100% of our attention to the specific challenges and needs of farmers. Our motto is simple, by farmers, for farmers. Ive seen first-hand how important timely, reliable veterinary care is for farmers, especially in rural areas such as County Mayo. Across rural Ireland, theres a growing shortage of farm animal vets and increasing difficulty in filling those vacancies. Farm Vets Balla is committed to supporting the local farming community by providing high-quality, accessible care for their animals. The establishment of the business comes following the Veterinary Council of Irelands Workforce Report, released in May, which highlights growing pressures on the veterinary workforce, including recruitment and retention challenges in rural areas, limited out-of-hours emergency cover, and work- life balance issues. The veterinary register has grown by 30% since 2004, yet rural areas face shortages of large-animal practitioners, essential for Irelands agricultural sector, the VCI report says. Conveniently situated on the N60, the main road between Castlebar and Claremorris, the practice office will be open six days a week, Monday through Saturday, with emergency cover during evenings, nights and weekends (including Sundays). The practices office is 10 minutes from Castlebar and 15 minutes from Claremorris and will serve the surrounding areas. READ MORE: Mayo pub named as finalist in Irish bar of the year awards Mc Carvill said Farm Vets Balla has recently received official accreditation and approval from the Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI), the statutory body responsible for the regulation and management of the practice of veterinary medicine and veterinary nursing. Mc Carvill said the approval follows a thorough inspection and confirms that the practice meets all professional, ethical, and operational standards. The VCIs principal function is to safeguard animal health and welfare and veterinary public health in Ireland. The practice is located at F23 RW01. While an official launch event is planned for a later date, the practice will be open to the public from Tuesday, August 5. For further information, farmers can contact Farm Vets Balla on 086 0672121. Opinion / Columnist Mrs. Merry Chiwenga is a victim of Zanu PF dirty politics. The young woman was used to the point of becoming mad. She is accused of trying to murder Chiwenga: question is, who gave Merry orders to temper with the hospital gargets put on Chiwenga to sustain life? Chiwenga himself knows who: it is easy to punish a woman than the whole President. It is a sustained rumor that Mnangagwa murdered Generals that assisted him to rise to power: somehow the General survived the assassination. A decent person would go for the president and not the messenger. Chiwenga dines and jokes with Mnangagwa daily, Merry is forgotten, dust and dusted. I wonder if Mnangagwas is remorseful about the state in which Merry finds herself in. Merry has no arm and leg: she is disabled. Chiwenga finds something to laugh at, and even gloat about his once upon a wife's condition. Merry has been stripped of her property in South Africa. She is a woman, for this reason she must be humiliated by states institutions, domestic and outside home.The reason why she was stripped of her property is, it was acquired by cross-border money laundering. This will very soon be interesting. Why? It appears that the former President of Zambia, Advocate Edgar Lungu used foreign passport to symphony millions of dollars stolen from Zambian national coffers: He bought a 25-million-dollar spacious home in a posh and leafy suburb in South Africa. The social media says he bought about 150 top of the range cars in his name or his daughter. What is good for the goose, is good for the gander. Are they going to do the same for Lungu family? Are they going to strip the Lungu family of the house property bought illicitly by money laundering?Funny! When Lungu's property was reported by the media, there was no outrage on the part of the ANC government. Are we to believe that the buying of a house worth that amount escaped the Scorpions and other secret services without drawing attention to the government wondering how so much money from a former President Edgar Lungu would have bought houses and hundreds of cars in his name. What were those cars meant to do? Does a family need 150 cars? Again, rumor says those cars were going to be used as campaign vehicles, come elections in 2026. This is how African elections are successfully won. Zambia PF leadership was going to be corrupted by freebees of top range cars.We can now speculate further and say, the reason why South Africa grunted Lungu a private funeral in South Africa is because a can of worms are to be opened. Removing money from a foreign bank in millions can shake the economy of that country. This is my rational answer: otherwise, it is more complex than we can imagine. Which politician was working with Lungu to silence the banks about money coming from Zambia to stash it into foreign banks. What is established is the 5 foreign passports he used to travel in countries of interest. I would like to believe he did not invest in South Africa alone but in other SADC countries. Our presidents are above the law. A strong rumor says Lungu invested in Eswatini equally. President HH is a wise man. I believe he will follow up all the looted revenues that initially belonged to the nation to be returned backConstantine Chiwenga is happy and jolly about the property forfeiture by the South African government. Women are always disadvantaged in many situations especially in divorce cases. Assisted by patriarchal structures in societies, we don't know what Chiwenga said to the South African government regarding the property. Lady Merry did not have women support structure in Zimbabwe who stood by her thick and thin. This high-profile case should have attracted the attention of the UN Secretary General. The suffering with nobody on her side to assist. (I don't mean Advocate Beatrice Mtetwa) Women's organisations have been dead silence ever since this case came to light.The same Chiwenga who is clapping hands: kusekerera Nhamo serugare. His loot is safe in Far Eastern countries. We have lost billions of revenues stashed in foreign banks. Merry is a cheap fry: she must be punished, leaving hardcore criminal politicians going about scot free. How many SADC politicians have their looted cash in South African banks? Why Merry alone. President Ramaphosa opened a bank account with his mattress in his Phala Phala farm residency. We Africans are a laughingstock the whole world. They tell us openly, don't trust Africans because of their criminal intents. Do you blame them when news coming from Africa is about how criminal most presidents are. There is no rule of law. Honestly African youth are not supposed to be scattered all over the world because we are running away from hunger and poverty. Our presidents don't care about us. African leaders live large in colonial masters' countries using looted money.Chiwenga is busy vying for the state house. A man with limited thought processes. What will Zimbabwe be like with a president so cruel. Chiwenga does not hide his stupidity. The Idi Amin anger on his face if Mnangagwa just passed by. His intellectual capacity is so small, he fails basic things in life: empathy. A package of nonsense. I am curious to know, if he goes to church, supposedly catholic, does he receive the holy communion if he failed to pardon his former wife? Pardoning a mother of your children should be basic, it did not matter how big her sins might have been, and forgiving does not mean returning to his life as wife again. The medical condition in which Merry finds herself in, demand a genuine pardon and move on with separate lives. It scares my gut to think how we could be ruled by such a cruel man called Constantine Chiwenga soon. Zimbabwe deserves better. We have suffered a lot. We need new names: said NoViolet Bulawayo. A Man who stole a taxi in Westport and collided with a car at a garda checkpoint before fleeing has been sentenced to three years imprisonment. Gerard OSullivan (32) of Woodstock, Moycullen, Co Galway appeared before Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court where he was sentenced to the unlawful taking of a taxi as well as dangerous driving and criminal damage on February 26, 2025. Garda Padraig OConnor told the court that at 1.50pm, Adrian McGing reported that his Toyota Hiace taxi was stolen from Church Lane, Westport. READ NEXT: The Muhammad Ali of politics celebrated in Westport Town Hall He said they suspected it had travelled out the Ballinrobe Road and CCTV footage showed the taxi picking up another person in Westport before it did travel out the Ballinrobe Road. Gardai in the Claremorris district were asked to assist in detecting the vehicle and Garda John Doherty set up a checkpoint in the village of Cross. As the taxi approached the village, Garda Doherty activated the blue lights and Garda OConnor explained that the taxi drove into the back of a Toyota Rav 4 which had come to a stop at the checkpoint. Fled the scene THE taxi came to a stop opposite OMalleys Bar in Cross before the defendant and his passenger fled the scene. A search commenced but they were apprehended hiding in undergrowth. The two men struggled with gardai before they were eventually restrained and Garda Doherty identified them as the men who fled the taxi. Garda OConnor said Mr OSullivan was arrested but gave no answers of evidential value. The court heard that the defendant has 35 previous convictions including six for theft. Ms Christina Burke, counsel for Mr OSullivan said that her client came from a dysfunctional background with his mother dying at a young age and he started taking drugs at a young age. She added that in 2023, Mr OSullivans sister who was a stabilising influence on him died from a brain tumour and as a result he spiralled into drug addiction. Wandering around THE court heard that on the day, Mr OSullivan was refused entry onto a bus or the train to travel to Dublin due to intoxication and was wandering around Westport aimlessly when he stole the taxi. Ms Burke said he is deeply sorry for his behaviour and stated that Mr OSullivan is a plasterer by trade who wants to get back into employment. The court also heard that two months after Mr OSullivan was given bail for this offence he stole another car and is currently serving an 18 month sentence. Judge Eoin Garavan noted that Mr OSullivans previous convictions including armed robbery and the taking of the taxi made no sense other than it was done out of boredom and mischief. He sentenced Mr OSullivan to three years and ten months for the unauthorised taking of the taxi and dangerous driving but agreed to suspend the last ten months for a two year period. As part of the suspended sentence, Mr OSullivan must undergo a residential course of no less than six months following his release and engage with psychological therapy while in prison. Judge Garavan said he would not back date any of the sentence for time served and disqualified Mr OSullivan from driving for five years. READ NEXT: An Garda Siochana issue important message for Mayo holiday goers The Minister for Health announced today that HHC is now illegal in Ireland. The Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, has announced that a drug called HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol) is now categorised as a Schedule 1 controlled drug Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. READ MORE: Legally available cannabis being widely used by Mayo teens This means that the import, export, production, possession, sale, and supply of products containing HHC is now illegal. HHC is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid that has similar effects to cannabis and has been commonly sold as e-cigarettes or vape pens, in herbal mixtures, oils, edible jellies and cakes and as tinctures. The urgency and impact of HHC was highlighted by The Mayo News in May. Welcoming the news, Mary Cannon, professor of psychiatric epidemiology and youth mental health at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (RCSI), and consultant psychiatrist in Beaumont Hospital in Dublin, told The Mayo News that lessons need to be learnt. READ MORE: Drug being used in vapes made illegal after people suffer psychotic episodes This is great news, but they need to be able to react faster in the future. They need to be more nimble. They need to be more aware of what's coming through Prof Cannon has previously been critical of the delay in banning the substance and is calling for an early warning system as a way of reacting faster the next time. The consultant psychiatrist says there is strong evidence this substance can lead to psychosis. Not only that, it can it can be a very severe psychosis. Its a very agitated psychosis and could be a harm to themselves and others as they lose touch with reality. Thats why they are ending up in the emergency department, she said. Recent information shows HHC was the second most common substance, after cannabis, for teenagers accessing addiction services in Ireland. According to Professor Cannon, 25 percent of referrals were for addiction to HHC. This shows that young people are taking a chance here with their mental health. A Mayo teen, who shared his story of addiction with The Mayo News, has also welcomed the news but warns that there'll be a gap in the market now and notes how head shops were replaced by HHC and believes if it happened before, you know it can happen again. He thinks there should be a blanket ban and all psychoactive substances. Global travel site Big 7 Travel has officially released its annual list of the top 50 best islands in the world and it features one Mayo island which features with the very best. This years ranking highlights a mix of trending destinations, remote escapes and iconic favourites. The list is based on aggregated scores from previous media results, contributions from the Big 7 Travel editorial team, destination popularity on social media, and destinations capturing travellers' attention in 2025. One of Mayos most scenic spots has been selected in the top 50 islands. The spectacular Achill Island has officially been named as the eight best island in the world. READ MORE: 'Honoured and humbled' - Mayo venue is 'Irish Whiskey Bar of the Year' Amongst the likes of islands such as Madeira, Sri Lanka and the Seychelles, Achill is up there with the most beautiful islands on the global scene. The West Mayo island attracts thousands of visitors all year round with the summer season being the busiest as many enjoy the spectacular views Achill has to offer. From Keem bay to Keel beach, the Croaghaun cliffs to the Atlantic drive, the great western greenway to Minaun heights, Achill island really is magnificent. Situated less than an hour from the popular town of Westport, Achill Island is one of Mayos gems. Irish holidaymakers in Turkey are being urged to take extreme caution after the country recorded its highest-ever temperature and continues to battle a wave of wildfires. The sweltering new record of 50.5C was registered in Silopi, a town in Turkey's southeast near the Syrian and Iraqi borders, on Friday, July 25, according to the Turkish Ministry of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate. The temperature surpasses the previous national record of 49.5C set in 2023 and comes as much of Turkey swelters under an intense heatwave, which experts say is increasing the risk of devastating wildfires. According to the data from our General Directorate of Meteorology, a temperature record for Turkey was broken in Srnak Silopi on July 25 with 50.5C," the ministry said in a statement on X. It is expected that air temperatures will continue to remain above seasonal norms in the coming week. We kindly request our citizens to act with care and sensitivity to prevent any forest fires due to the hot weather." READ MORE | What is listeria? Symptoms of illness after death from ready meal and major recall The UK Met Office also warned of "serious health impacts" and an "extremely high risk of wildfires" due to the intense heat, adding that the record-breaking temperature "exceeds the previous record of 49.5C recorded on 15th August 2023". The warnings come amid an ongoing wildfire crisis in the country, with dozens of blazes breaking out daily in recent weeks. Fires have devastated large parts of western and northwestern Turkey and now threaten some major cities. In Bursa, Turkey's fourth-largest city, more than 1,700 people have been evacuated from villages on the city's outskirts as flames scorched thousands of hectares of land. One firefighter died after suffering a heart attack while battling the blaze. READ MORE | LIVE: Met Eireann in 22C heat forecast but pinpoints nasty twist within days Officials have declared the provinces of Izmir and Bilecik disaster zones, and rescue workers across the country have been deployed to confront more than 80 separate fires in recent days. Irish tourists travelling to or currently in Turkey, particularly in regions such as Izmir, Bursa, and the southeast, are being advised to stay hydrated and avoid the sun during peak hours, to follow all local fire restrictions and evacuation orders, avoid high-risk areas and keep updated on local news, and check travel and safety advice via the Department of Foreign Affairs. The Turkish government has warned that high winds may continue to worsen the wildfire threat over the coming days, even in areas where fires had previously been brought under control. The extreme heat is expected to linger well into next week. READ MORE | 'Pain is borne out of love'- Prayer service for victims of Fermanagh shooting hears This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy Privacy Policy , and our Terms of Use The wireless earbuds scene in 2025 is absolutely flooded every brand is shouting about mind-blowing specs, AI features, and audio tech you probably wont use past the first week. And then comes Sony, dropping the WF-C710N with barely any noise. No over-the-top launch events, no influencer blitz, just a straightforward promise: solid sound, for 8,990. Hook.online Ive been daily-driving these buds for over a week now, and honestly, theyre kind of a breath of fresh air. Theyre not trying to out-spec the competition instead, they focus on nailing the essentials. And thats exactly what makes them worth considering. Sony WF-C710N sound quality Hook.online Lets kick things off with what matters most the sound. The WF-C710N delivers audio that feels like it belongs in a more expensive tier. The tuning is balanced and mature. Vocals are clean, mids have texture, and the bass doesnt go overboard. Its tight and controlled rather than boomy. I threw everything at these mellow lo-fi tracks, punchy indie rock, even some bass-heavy hip-hop and they held up without distortion or that harsh treble spike that cheaper earbuds often struggle with. The detail is solid, even with just a basic SBC/AAC codec setup. No LDAC or aptX here, but Sonys DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine) definitely pulls its weight, making compressed audio sound fuller than expected. For audiophiles, this wont be endgame gear. But for everyday listeners, casual music lovers, or podcast junkies, these buds punch way above their price tag. Sony WF-C710N ANC and ambient mode Sony Yes, the WF-C710N has active noise cancellation but manage your expectations. Youre not getting the same level of silence as Sonys flagship WF-1000XM5s. Still, the ANC does a respectable job in most common situations: commutes, coffee shops, or blocking out fan noise in your room. Some environmental sounds, especially wind and high-pitched chatter, still get through, and the ANC can feel inconsistent depending on your surroundings. But considering the price bracket, its more than fair. Theres also an ambient sound mode, which lets in some external noise so youre not completely shut off. Its not super crisp but does enough if youre walking around or want to stay semi-aware. A lot of the effectiveness comes from the fit. The earbuds seal well, and that passive noise isolation does half the job. Theyre lightweight too, so you can wear them for hours without fussing around with the fit. Sony WF-C710N call quality Sony Lets not pretend like budget earbuds are known for their mic quality most of them sound like youre talking through a tin can in a wind tunnel. But the WF-C710N actually performs better than most in this price range. Indoors or in quiet spaces, voices come through clearly with very little background fuzz. The mic picks up your speech naturally, and its more than serviceable for video calls or voice notes. Outdoors? Its a bit of a mixed bag. Wind and traffic noise do sneak in, and Sonys noise suppression isnt strong enough to clean it up entirely. Still, these are usable even on the go, which is more than we can say for many TWS sets under 10K. Sony WF-C710N design Hook.online Sony didnt try to clone Apple or Nothing here. The WF-C710N has its own identity a pill-shaped case with a translucent shell that lets you peek at the internals. Its got a bit of that retro-cyberpunk aesthetic, especially in the Blue colourway. That said, the red and yellow wiring inside might not be for everyone it looks a little DIY. But overall, the case feels compact and fun to fidget with. Itll fit into a coin pocket, though it might bulge a bit depending on your jeans. One thing to note: the hinge feels a little creaky, and the plastic could scuff easily. So youll want to be careful tossing it around in a bag. Sony As for the earbuds themselves, Sony went for a capsule-style design with no stem. They sit flush in the ear, and the transparent finish keeps the techy theme going. Comfort-wise, theyre decent. They do feel a bit top-heavy, especially during runs or workouts, but for casual listening, theyre solid. And once you find the right tip from the included options, the in-ear seal is pretty effective. Theyre also rated IPX4, so sweat or light rain wont be an issue. Just dont expect to take them swimming or to the beach. Sony WF-C710N battery life Sony Sony rates the WF-C710N at 29-30hours total playback with ANC on thats 8 hours from the earbuds and the rest from the case. Turn ANC off, and you can stretch it up beyond. In my use (mostly with ANC on and a few calls daily), I got about 4.5 hours from the buds consistently, which is right on target. Fast charging is also here 10 minutes gives you about an hour of playback. Handy for those oops, forgot to charge moments. Sony WF-C710N app support and controls Sony Sonys Headphones Connect app is supported here, and while you dont get all the high-end goodies from the flagship models, it covers the basics well. You can remap touch controls, toggle ANC, and choose from a few EQ presets. Theres also Adaptive Sound Control, which automatically adjusts noise cancellation based on your activity (walking, sitting, etc.). Its not perfect, but nice to have. The touch controls on the buds themselves are responsive, and after a short learning curve, they become second nature. Sony WF-C710N verdict GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Matthew Kolakowski had just left the Walmart checkout lane when a worker screamed that a man had a knife. Then he heard a "mass wave of just blood-curdling screams from the back of the store." He saw the man stab at another shopper, then stab an elderly woman in the back. He told his daughter and her friend to stay put while he and his brother-in-law gave chase. The elderly woman "went down and there was blood pouring out of her. He had taken his knife from his left hand and shuffled it back to his right hand and turned around like he was going to get her again. And he had locked eyes with me at the time, and he saw me with the cart," he said. Kolakowski drilled the man -- identified by police as Bradford James Gille, 42 - with the shopping cart. Gille tried to get up but another man with a shopping cart struck him from the other side. Kolakowski had raised his cart to "just smash it on top of him," when another customer, Derrick Perry, armed with a pistol, held the accused stabber at gunpoint. Kolakowski, 39, a disabled U.S. Marine who served in Iraq, and his brother-in-law, Chris O'Brien, 43, who backed Kolakowski and began recording when Perry showed up with a gun, spoke Tuesday, July 29, at a press conference in Grand Rapids. Eleven people suffered stab injuries in the attack Saturday at the Traverse City Walmart store. Gille, with a history of mental illness, is charged with 11 counts of attempted murder and a single terrorism charge. He is held on $100,000 bond. Police said he randomly attacked victims inside and outside of the store. Perry, who also served in the U.S. Marine Corps, told ABC's Good Morning America: "I ultimately wanted him to put the knife down and back away until law enforcement got there," Perry said. "I did not see myself as any type of judge, jury or executioner -- I just wanted everyone to be safe." Perry repeatedly ordered the man to drop the folding knife. Kolakowski, too, demanded that the man drop the knife. Gille finally dropped the knife and Kolakowski grabbed it. Perry put his legally owned gun away seconds before a Grand Traverse County sheriff's deputy handcuffed Gille, who was being held down. Kolakowski then helped another deputy who applied a tourniquet to a man's shoulder. While Perry lives in the area, Kolakowski and O'Brien, who live in the Grand Rapids area, were visiting with family. Ed Kolakowski, a retired Kent County sheriff's detective who now works as a private investigator, said his son and the others acted heroically. He said they gained control in a chaotic situation, holding the man at gunpoint, using loud verbal commands and recording the episode. "They all three did a phenomenal job, and they should be looked up to as heroes," he said. "That could have been much worse if these guys weren't there." Two others, including the man with a shopping cart, helped control the stabbing suspect but Matthew Kolakowski and his brother-in-law did not know their names. "And I think our show of force is what caused him to put that knife down," Kolakowski said. He said his Marine training taught him to face challenges head-on. It was an unexpected event but his training kicked in, he said. Kolakowski said his concern is for the victims. He's also worried about children, including his daughter, who were in the store and certainly traumatized. "She went the complete opposite direction of where the threat was ... . And I just feel like she's more visually traumatized by the screams." The victims range from 29 to 84 years old. All are expected to survive. Kolakowski said police came flying in, with the brakes smoking on one of the patrol cars. "So we knew they weren't playing around either. ... So, for anything to go down, it could have been any of their kids, any of their family, and maybe some of them were, but I don't know," Kolakowski said. "But they came in hot, in full force." 2025 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit mlive.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The Defense Department is adopting a new online login and authentication system that will replace the current protocols for users accessing Defense Department and Veterans Affairs websites like Tricare, the MHS Genesis medical records system and AccessVA. Roughly 20 million people will eventually move to the new system, myAuth, from the legacy DS Logon authentication system used by roughly 200 DoD and VA websites. The new cloud-based myAuth is more secure than DS Logon and will simplify the verification process, according to Defense Department officials. "Our beneficiaries, our veterans, our uniform service vendors -- they let us know that they need a credentialing service that better fits their needs and that is more user friendly, [one] that offers them password-less options," a defense official said in an interview Monday with Military.com. Read Next: New Report Details Airman's Humvee Death Amid Halt in Vehicle's Usage at Missile Bases The Defense Department will introduce the new system in phases and has started with milConnect, the website for benefits and the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, and ID Card Office Online. Users who go to access those websites via their Common Access Cards or DS Logon credentials will receive prompts to create myAuth accounts. As of last week, more than 900,000 people, including active-duty service members, dependents, retirees and their family members, had created myAuth accounts. "Our goal with myAuth was to create a quicker and simpler ... efficient way to access our DoD websites," the defense official said. According to the Defense Department, the myAuth system will let personnel, including service members, civilian employees, contractors and vendors, access personal and business information while on the go when they don't have access to a CAC-enabled computer. For example, a soldier who needs to access the Defense Travel System to change plans could log in from the road or an airport using myAuth and its affiliated authenticator app, Okta Verify, on their personal computer or cell phone. According to the official, the DS Logon system is outdated and has several major issues that make it obsolete. It requires users to log in frequently, which is not normally a problem with active-duty personnel and civilian employees who work on government computers but presents roadblocks to those who use it on an as-needed basis. DS Logon also mandated a password change every 60 days, with intricate password requirements. "The number one complaint that we get is how much of a pain remembering the complex requirements of a password -- so many characters, alphanumeric, can't repeat. You can't have your birth date or anything identifying. It needs to be unique," the defense official said. The new system uses Okta Verify, an app that is installed on a computer or cell phone, for multifactor authentication. The app-based program may present some challenges to users unfamiliar with verification apps or who don't have a smartphone, but the official said the system will "flex" to meet their needs. They added that 99% of users who have requested myAuth credentials have been able to obtain them. A call center has been established at 800-538-9552 to help those who have issues getting a new login or downloading the Okta Verify app. According to the defense official, the DoD budget includes $8.1 million over the next three years to implement myAuth. But by building the myAuth system so that it uses existing DS Logon accounts to create accounts, the DoD saved $22 million by not having to pay for reverification costs, they added. The department also is consolidating infrastructure, call center, license support and operational costs -- changes that are expected to save an additional $36 million in the coming years, the official said. To get a myAuth account, users must have a DS Logon or a CAC card. Those who don't have a CAC or a DS Logon must create a one-time DS Logon account in the next 18 months and then create a myAuth account. If they wait until after the DS Logon system is gone, they will need to reverify their identities, according to the department. DS Logon isn't the only system that will be replaced by myAuth. According to the Defense Department, other authentication systems across the department will be retired with the adoption of myAuth. DoD websites that require a DS Logon include eBenefits, Tricare, Military OneSource, MHS Genesis, the Army's Transition Assistance Program portal, and more. VA websites that use it include AccessVA, the Veteran ID Card center and the VetBiz portal. The Defense Manpower Data Center is working with the Defense Health Agency to communicate the change to non-CAC card holders through frequently used websites like Tricare, according to the defense official. "Part of our communication plan is to try and get these veterans signed up now, so when the transition occurs, there's no change to them. They can just use the credential that they've created, already got," they said. More information is available at myAuth Help. Related: Hegseth, Top Officials Violated 'Basic Operational Security' with Signal Chat on Yemen War Plans KYIV, Ukraine Russian glide bombs and ballistic missiles struck a Ukrainian prison and a medical facility overnight as Russia's relentless strikes on civilian areas killed at least 27 people across the country, officials said Tuesday, despite U.S. President Donald Trumps threat to soon punish Russia with sanctions and tariffs unless it stops. Four powerful Russian glide bombs hit a prison in Ukraines southeastern Zaporizhzhia region, authorities said. They killed at least 16 inmates and wounded more than 90 others, Ukraines Justice Ministry said. In the Dnipro region of central Ukraine, authorities said Russian missiles partially destroyed a three-story building and damaged nearby medical facilities, including a maternity hospital and a city hospital ward. At least three people were killed, including a 23-year-old pregnant woman, and two other people were killed elsewhere in the region, regional authorities said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that overnight Russian strikes across the country hit 73 cities, towns and villages. These were conscious, deliberate strikes not accidental, Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Trump said Monday he is giving Russian President Vladimir Putin 10 to 12 days to stop the killing in Ukraine after three years of war, moving up a 50-day deadline he had given the Russian leader two weeks ago. The move meant Trump wants peace efforts to make progress by Aug. 7-9. Trump has repeatedly rebuked Putin for talking about ending the war but continuing to bombard Ukrainian civilians. But the Kremlin hasn't changed its tactics. Im disappointed in President Putin, Trump said during a visit to Scotland. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday that Russia is determined to achieve its goals in Ukraine, though he said Moscow has taken note of Trumps announcement and is committed to seeking a peaceful solution. Zelenskyy welcomed Trump's shortening of the deadline. Everyone needs peace Ukraine, Europe, the United States and responsible leaders across the globe, Zelenskyy wrote in a post on Telegram. Everyone except Russia. The Kremlin pushes back against Trump The Kremlin pushed back, with a top Putin lieutenant warning Trump against playing the ultimatum game with Russia. Russia isnt Israel or even Iran, former president Dmitry Medvedev, who is deputy head of the countrys Security Council, wrote on social platform X. Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country, Medvedev said. Since Russia's full-scale invasion of its neighbor, the Kremlin has warned Kyiv's Western backers that their involvement could end up broadening the war to NATO countries. Kremlin officials continue to frame Russia as in direct geopolitical confrontation with the West in order to generate domestic support for the war in Ukraine and future Russian aggression against NATO, the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington think tank, said late Monday. Russia attacks with glide bombs, drones and missiles The Ukrainian air force said Russia launched two Iskander-M ballistic missiles along with 37 Shahed-type strike drones and decoys at Ukraine overnight. It said 32 Shahed drones were intercepted or neutralized by Ukrainian air defenses. The Russian attack close to midnight Monday hit the Bilenkivska Correctional Facility with glide bombs, according to the State Criminal Executive Service of Ukraine. Glide bombs, which are Soviet-era bombs retrofitted with retractable fins and guidance systems, have been laying waste to cities in eastern Ukraine, where the Russian army is trying to pierce Ukrainian defenses. The bombs carry up to 3,000 kilograms (6,600 pounds) of explosives. At least 42 inmates were hospitalized with serious injuries, while another 40 people, including one staff member, sustained various injuries. The strike destroyed the prisons dining hall, damaged administrative and quarantine buildings, but the perimeter fence held and no escapes were reported, authorities said. Ukrainian officials condemned the attack, saying that targeting civilian infrastructure, such as prisons, is a war crime under international conventions. The assault occurred exactly three years after an explosion killed more than 50 people at the Olenivka detention facility in the Russia-occupied Donetsk region, where dozens of Ukrainian prisoners were killed. Russia and Ukraine accused each other of shelling the prison. The Associated Press interviewed over a dozen people with direct knowledge of details of that attack, including survivors, investigators and families of the dead and missing. All described evidence they believed points directly to Russia as the culprit. The AP also obtained an internal United Nations analysis that found the same. Russian forces also struck a grocery store in a village in the northeastern Kharkiv region, police said, killing five and wounding three civilians. Authorities in the southern Kherson region reported one civilian killed and three wounded over the past 24 hours. Alongside the barrages, Russia has also kept up its grinding war of attrition, which has slowly churned across the eastern side of Ukraine at a heavy cost in troop losses and military hardware. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed Tuesday that Russian troops have captured the villages of Novoukrainka in the Donetsk region and Temyrivka in the Zaporizhzhia region. Ukraine launches long-range drones Ukraine has sought to fight back against Russian strikes by developing its own long-range drone technology, hitting oil depots, weapons plants and disrupting commercial flights. Russias Defense Ministry said Tuesday that air defenses downed 74 Ukrainian drones over several regions overnight, including 43 over the Bryansk region. Yuri Slyusar, the head of the Rostov region said a man in the city of Salsk was killed in a drone attack, which started a fire at the Salsk railway station. Officials said a cargo train was set ablaze at the Salsk station and the railway traffic via Salsk was suspended. Explosions shattered windows in two cars of a passenger train and passengers were evacuated. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin says he will withhold state funds from Richmond unless the city pays $5.8 million to a wrongfully convicted man who spent nearly 50 years in prison, as compensation for an abusive interrogation and a prosecution that hid critical evidence. Under a new state law, Richmond owes Marvin Grimm $5.8 million, matching a sum the state paid for the time he served after his conviction for a crime he did not commit: the murder and sexual assault of 3-year-old Christopher Harper in 1975. "The background that led to Mr. Grimm's wrongful conviction is horrific," Youngkin wrote in a letter to Richmond Mayor Danny Avula. "In order to secure a conviction, employees of the city did illegal and despicable things to a human being and fellow citizen of Richmond," he added. Those included a lengthy interrogation of a then-20-year-old who was suffering lasting anxiety and depression after witnessing the death of his shipmates while in the Navy. After a 10-hour interrogation and 24 hours without sleep, responding to prompts from police, Grimm gave a statement that matched police theories about the crime but that included none of the critical, never-publicized information investigators usually rely on to make sure individuals aren't admitting to crimes they did not commit. Prosecutors convinced Grimm to plead guilty, saying he could only avoid the death penalty if he did -- even though the U.S. Supreme Court had voided state death penalty laws four years earlier, in 1972, only allowing executions to resume in 1977. But prosecutors and police withheld evidence, including blood evidence that would have shown Grimm could not have committed the crime. The Supreme Court ruled in 1962 that prosecutors must provide defendants' lawyers with any evidence that could show defendants are not guilty. Grimm was sentenced to life plus 10 years for the crime and spent the first five years of his sentence in solitary confinement. But in 2002, 2012 and 2013, DNA evidence and microscopic examination of a towel and oral swabs that had been used as evidence convicting Grimm found no trace of a sexual assault. A toxicology analysis showed he could not have committed the crime during the time in which it happened. Last year, the Court of Appeals exonerated Grimm, and this year the General Assembly approved $5.8 million in compensation and enacted a law saying that when the state compensates a wrongfully convicted person, a locality must match any payment if it or its employees intentionally withheld evidence showing that person was innocent. The law also says that if a locality won't pay, a governor can withhold state funds until the locality meets its obligation. In his letter, Youngkin said that if the city does not pay Grimm the $5.8 million it owes by Aug. 15, he will direct the state comptroller to withhold statement payments until the city pays Grimm. Youngkin said the city has not responded to Grimm's attorneys and is ignoring its responsibility. A city spokesman said: "The City is reviewing the contents of the Governor's letter and does not have comment at this time." Youngkin said: "Mr. Grimm deserves better treatment from the city of Richmond." 2025 Richmond Times-Dispatch, Va.. Visit www.timesdispatch.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A Marine Corps veteran's wife has been released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention following advocacy from Sen. John Kennedy, a Louisiana Republican who backs President Donald Trump's hardline immigration crackdown. Until this week, Mexican national Paola Clouatre had been one of tens of thousands of people in ICE custody as the Trump administration continues to press immigration officers to arrest 3,000 people a day suspected of being in the U.S. illegally. Emails reviewed by The Associated Press show that Kennedy's office put in a request Friday for the Department of Homeland Security to release her after a judge halted her deportation order earlier that week. By Monday, she was out of a remote ICE detention center in north Louisiana and home in Baton Rouge with her veteran husband Adrian Clouatre and their two young children. Kennedys constituent services representative, Christy Tate, congratulated Adrian Clouatre on his wife's release and thanked him for his military service. I am so happy for you and your family, Tate wrote in an email to Adrian Clouatre. God is truly great! Kennedys office proved instrumental in engaging with the Department of Homeland Security, according to Carey Holliday, the familys attorney. Kennedy's office did not provide further comment. Another Louisiana Republican, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, also intervened recently with the Department of Homeland Security to secure the release of an Iranian mother from ICE detention following widespread outcry. The woman has lived for decades in New Orleans. Kennedy has generally been a staunch supporter of Trump's immigration policies. Illegal immigration is illegal duh, Kennedy posted on his Facebook page on July 17, amid a series of recent media appearances decrying efforts to prevent ICE officers from making arrests. In April, however, he criticized the Trump administration for mistakenly deporting a Maryland man. Senator's Office Requests Mother's Release from ICE Custody The Department of Homeland Security previously told The AP it considered Clouatre to be illegally in the country. An email chain shared by Adrian Clouatre shows that the family's attorney reached out to Kennedys office in early June after Paola Clouatre was detained in late May. Tate received Paola Clouatres court documents by early July and said she then contacted ICE, according to the email exchange. On July 23, an immigration judge halted Paola Clouatres deportation order. After Adrian Clouatre notified Kennedy's office, Tate said she sent the request to release Paola Clouatre to DHS and shared a copy of the judge's motion with the agency, emails show. In an email several days later, Tate said that ICE told her it continues to make custody determinations on a case-by-case basis based on the specific circumstances of each case and had received the judge's decision from Kennedy's office for consideration." The next working day, Paola Clouatre was released from custody. We will continue to keep you, your family and others that are experiencing the same issues in our prayers," Tate said in an email to Adrian Clouatre. If you need our assistance in the future, please contact us." Back with Her Children Paola Clouatre had been detained by ICE officers on May 27 during an appointment related to her green card application. She had entered the country as a minor with her mother from Mexico more than a decade ago and was legally processed while seeking asylum, she, her husband and her attorney say. But Clouatre's mother later failed to show up for a court date, leading a judge to issue a deportation order against Paola Clouatre in 2018, though by then she had become estranged from her mother and was homeless. The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Clouatre's release. Adrian Clouatre said he wished the agency would "actually look at the circumstances before detaining people like his wife. It shouldn't just be like a blanket Oh, theyre illegal, throw them in ICE detention.' Reunited with her breastfeeding infant daughter and able to snuggle with her toddler son, Paola Clouatre told AP she feels like a mother again. I was feeling bad, she said of detention. I was feeling like I failed my kids. It will likely be a multiyear court process before Paola Clouatre's immigration court proceedings are formally closed, but things look promising, and she should be able to obtain her green card eventually, her attorney said. For now, she's wearing an ankle monitor, but still able to pick up life where she left off, her husband says. The day of her arrest in New Orleans, the couple had planned to sample some of the city's famed French pastries known as beignets and her husband says they'll finally get that chance again: We're going to make that day up. Brook is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Postal Code The Diamondbacks have sent right-handed pitcher Trevor Richards outright to Triple-A Reno, according to his transaction log on MLB.com. Richards was designated for assignment over the weekend when Arizona called up Brandyn Garcia. The eight-year MLB veteran has the right to reject an outright assignment in favor of free agency, and presumably, he will choose to do so. This is the second time Richards has been outrighted in 2025, and the last time, when it was the Royals who sent him outright to Triple-A in June, he elected free agency shortly thereafter. Richards moved into a full-time bullpen role in 2021, and over the next four seasons, he was one of the more durable bullpen arms in the league. From 2021-24, he was one of only seven relievers to throw at least 60 innings each year. He appeared in a total of 226 games and threw 266 1/3 innings for the Rays, Brewers, Blue Jays, and Twins. Only six pitchers both made more appearances and threw more innings in that span. His 4.60 ERA was mediocre, but his 4.21 FIP and 3.64 SIERA were more impressive, and regardless, his ability to eat innings out of the bullpen was valuable in and of itself. The 2025 campaign hasnt gone very well for Richards. He signed a minor league deal with the Cubs in the offseason but failed to make the Opening Day roster. He didnt last long in the majors for either the Royals or the Diamondbacks. All told, he has a 7.94 ERA in 5 2/3 MLB innings this year, and a 5.12 ERA in 31 2/3 innings at Triple-A. Nevertheless, he could certainly find a new home with a club in need of a proven major leaguer to cover bulk innings. The Marlins have selected the contract of first baseman/outfielder Troy Johnston from Triple-A, as MLB.coms Christina De Nicola reported earlier today. No corresponding moves are needed, as Miami haf space on both its 26-man and 40-man rosters following the now-official trade that sent Nick Fortes to the Rays. Johnston will be making his Major League debut whenever he appears in a game, which will mark a long-awaited career highlight for the 28-year-old. A 17th-round pick for the Marlins in the 2019 draft, Johnston has played at the Triple-A level in each of the last four seasons, with a solid .267/.345/.438 slash line, 35 home runs, and 57 stolen bases (from 66 attempts) to show for 1224 plate appearances at Miamis top affiliate. Despite these numbers, Johnston is only now getting his first look at the big league level. Ely Sussman of the Fish On First blog observes that Johnston would have been eligible for minor league free agency this year if he hadnt been selected to the 40-man roster, so todays move erases that scenario. For now, the left-handed hitting Johnston figures to get some at-bats at first base in a platoon with the righty-swinging Eric Wagaman. He could also get some time at DH when Agustin Ramirez is behind the plate, and since Kyle Stowers missed yesterdays game with an illness, Johnston might get some work in the outfield. Some more playing time could emerge for Johnston depending on the Marlins deadline plans, as Jesus Sanchez is a speculative trade candidate. The Royals announced that veteran southpaw Rich Hill has been designated for assignment. The move opens up roster space for right-hander Thomas Hatch, whose contract has been selected from Triple-A Omaha. After being released by the Red Sox last September, the 45-year-old Hill didnt sign a contract until inking a minors deal with Kansas City in May. Hill pitched 11 outings of ramp-up work in the minor leagues before his contract was selected to the Royals roster a week ago today, and hell head into DFA limbo with a 5.00 ERA to show for his two starts in a K.C. uniform. Hill allowed just one earned run over five innings against the Cubs but received no run support in a 6-0 loss on July 22, and the Braves touched him up for four earned runs (on six walks, three hits, and two homers allowed) in as many innings in a start yesterday. That was apparently enough for the Royals to designate Hill, and he may now be headed for yet another chapter in a career that has now stretched across 21 Major League seasons. If Hill clears waivers, he obviously has more than enough service time to reject an outright assignment to Triple-A, so the ball is in his court as to his next step. Hill may opt to just remain with the Royals, and while the club could release him, the Royals may want some rotation depth available in Omaha with so many other starters on the injured list. A waiver claim isnt out of the question, given how many teams need starting depth right now, and could still need more arms depending on how the trade deadline shakes out. Pitching-needy clubs could wait until after the 5pm CT deadline on Thursday to put in a claim on Hill, should they have a sudden hole to fill in a rotation following a trade or two. Should Hill head to free agency once more, it remains to be seen if hell be able to find another minor league contract elsewhere, given how long it took him to land with the Royals. Yet another reunion with the Red Sox cant be ruled out, or Hill could try to find a brand-new organization in an attempt to secure a unique place in the record books. Hill and Edwin Jackson share the record for most career teams (14), so suiting up with a 15th different club at the big league level would make Hill the most well-traveled player in MLB history. Retirement is naturally another option, if Hill decides to finally hang up his cleats after 24 total years in pro ball. To put it in perspective, Hatch was only seven years old when Hill was drafted by the Cubs in 2002. Hatch signed a minor league deal with K.C. during the offseason and has yet to see any big league action his contract was previously selected on June 5 but just for the first game of a doubleheader, and Hatch was DFAed before the nightcap. Assuming that this stint with the Royals leads to an in-game appearance, it will mark Hatchs first time on a Major League mound since the 2023 season. The 30-year-old Hatch posted a 4.96 ERA over 69 MLB innings with the Blue Jays and Pirates from 2020-23 before he spent the 2024 campaign in Japan with the Hiroshima Carp. Hatch has a 4.22 ERA, 20.1% strikeout rate, and 7.2% walk rate across 91 2/3 innings and 18 Triple-A starts this year, and hell be the next pitcher to try and fill a hole in Kansas Citys injury-riddled rotation. This file photo shows a Kirtland's warbler, a species which teetered on the brink of extinction until conservationists built a rotating jack pine plantation system to provide enough habitat for the migratory songbird to be removed from the federal list of endangered species in 2019. MLive files GAYLORD, MI A drastic plunge in the number of Kirtlands warblers found in the wild this year brought conservationists to Gaylord this week to brainstorm solutions. The latest population count showed a plunge by more than 750 breeding pairs from the number counted during the last official field survey in 2021, officials announced. Thats a decline of one-third in four years. That means a loss of more than 1,500 birds. The songbirds global numbers dropped from 2,245 pairs four years ago to 1,489 pairs this year. Michigan provides breeding habitat for 98% of the species population; Wisconsin reported 12 pairs this year and Ontario is still counting. Now wildlife and forestry experts are meeting over three days to discuss how to help the once-endangered migratory songbird species rebound once again. Experts said the decrease in Kirtlands warbler numbers was not a complete surprise. In fact, officials are already taking action to address the issue, said Erin Victory, a wildlife biologist for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the states Kirtlands warbler coordinator. This file photo from the Michigan DNR shows a male Kirtlands warbler singing while perched. Michigan DNR Victory said the conservation team is working on plans to reverse the birds decline and stabilize the population. The goal is to maintain at least 1,000 pairs of the warblers, which remain listed as a threatened species in Michigan. The Kirtlands warbler was only removed from the federal list of endangered species in 2019. Experts agree the drop in the Kirtlands warbler population is likely because of a decline in available breeding habitat. State and federal officials are meant to provide at least 30,000 acres of prime jack pine habitat for the birds in Michigan, though currently there are only about 22,000 acres available. There have been factors that land managers couldnt control, Victory said. First, a hailstorm in 2023 wiped out half of the jack pine seedlings grown at a state-contracted tree nursery that were bound for habitat planting. Also, wildfire has burned through active Kirtlands warbler breeding areas, which does cause jack pines to naturally regenerate. However, it also resets the growth clock in those areas to zero and puts those zones at least a half-dozen years away from the birds returning. This MLive file photo from June 2023 shows charred jack pine trees alongside Barker Lake Road in Crawford County following a wildfire that burned southeast of Grayling. In fact, the beloved songbird species with its bright-yellow breast and sleek gray wing feathers is renowned for its finicky habitat needs. It only nests on the ground beneath the branches of jack pines grown between 6 and 20 years old. Now a multi-agency conservation team, including state, federal and nonprofit experts, said they will work to plant more young jack pine stands needed to support the Kirtlands warbler. They will write a 10-year plan to ramp up clear-cutting and replanting more jack pine plantations. Steve Roels, from nonprofit American Bird Conservancy, is the coordinator of the warblers conservation team. He said that while a population decline is not what they wanted to see, it is encouraging the primary cause is understood and a solution is in the works. Discussions among the birds conservation team members began this week. This is a significant enough issue that we need to get it fixed now, said Chris Mensing, a fish and wildlife biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Mensing attended the first day of the Kirtlands warbler conservation team meeting in Gaylord on Tuesday, July 29. He encouraged ambitious planting goals for more jack pine habitat as quickly as possible. Mature jack pine trees harvested around 60 years old are often made into utility poles or shipping palettes. State officials said younger timber stands in the 20- and 30-year age classes will be cut to ramp up jack pine plantings for the birds; that wood will be sold on the less-profitable market for biomass power plant fuel or for making landscaping mulch. Michigan DNR officials said this strategy continues to create habitat and allows the 40-year age class of jack pines to continue growing to become more merchantable in the future. Land managers said they are also evaluating the feasibility and safety of increasing the use of prescribed fire to regenerate more of a natural landscape, creating rare pine barrens and savanna-type habitats. Related: Can Michigan burn its way to healthier forests? Wildfires were historically how jack pine barrens that Kirtlands warblers used as breeding grounds were naturally formed. Jack pines are a scraggly tree species that evolved to require fire to open the cones and regenerate. Widespread fire suppression after European colonization led to loss of jack pine habitat and the Kirtlands warbler nearly went extinct. Today, state and federal foresters use soil-trenching equipment to plant jack pine in a distinctive pattern high density trees with periodic openings to mimic the effects of fire on the land. That tree planting method helped the warblers soar back from an all-time low of just 167 breeding pairs, effectively saving the species from completely disappearing. However, Michigans successful rescue of the Kirtlands warbler with jack pine plantations didnt come without the unintended and problematic consequence of biodiversity loss. Scientists discovered that although the Kirtlands warbler thrives in the jack pine plantations, many other native species disappear from those areas. That includes examples such as northern blazing star, wood lilies, and bird foot violet wildflowers, plus insects like the dusted skipper butterfly and secretive locust grasshopper. The conservation team will continue its discussion on Wednesday and Thursday this week, in both Gaylord and during a field visit in Crawford County. Scenes from the Mackinac Bridge Swim in Mackinaw City, Mich. on Saturday, July 26, 2025. 266 swimmers took on the 4.5-mile swim for charity across the Straits of Mackinac, all swimmers made it to St. Ignace before 11 a.m. Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.com MACKINAW CITY, MI -- While most people experience the Mackinac Bridge from behind a steering wheel, 266 determined swimmers from 28 states chose a more challenging perspective on Saturday, completing a grueling 4.5-mile swim across the Straits of Mackinac. The fourth annual Mackinac Bridge Swim, considered one of the most challenging organized swims in the Great Lakes region, began just after sunrise on Saturday, July 26. MLive had multiple staff members present to provide full coverage from land, boat, drone and even the water itself. In the epic video above, MLive videographer Neil Blake captured footage while swimming alongside participants as they made their way between the iconic bridge towers. An aerial image of the Mackinac Bridge Swim in Mackinaw City, Mich. on Saturday, July 26, 2025. 266 swimmers took on the 4.5-mile swim for charity across the Straits of Mackinac, all swimmers made it to St. Ignace before 11 a.m. Santino Mattioli | MLive.com Participants departed from the Colonial Michilimackinac Visitors Center on the southeast side of the iconic bridge. Every swimmer in the state that crosses over the bridge thinks in the back of their mind, Man, Id like to swim across that someday, said Eric Hansen, the event organizer and self-described Splash Coordinator. 103 1 / 103 Over 260 swimmers take on the 2025 Mackinac Bridge Swim Despite visible haze from Canadian wildfires hanging over the water, Hansen described conditions as near perfect, with favorable wind direction, good currents and a comfortable water temperature of 70 degrees. Unlike typical competitive events, the Mackinac Bridge Swim isnt timed by organizers. Instead, finishers receive unique handmade medals crafted from the steel of the Mackinac Bridge, most made by Hansen himself. A swimmer finishes off the 4.5-mile Mackinac Bridge Swim in St. Ignace, Mich. on Saturday, July 26, 2025. 266 swimmers took on the grueling swim for charity across the Straits of Mackinac, all swimmers made it from Mackinaw City to St. Ignace before 11 a.m. Neil Blake | MLive.com Safety was paramount throughout the event. Participants were required to wear wetsuits, swim buoys and assigned caps. To qualify, swimmers had to demonstrate a 40-minute mile swim time, either recorded by GPS or timed by a lifeguard. (middle) Eric Hansen, event organizer for the Mackinac Bridge Swim prepares for the volunteer swim across the Straits of Mackinac in Mackinaw City, Mich. on Friday, July 25, 2025. Volunteers had the opportunity to swim Thursday morning, before 300 swimmers planned to take on the swim on Saturday. Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.com The swimmers were supported by volunteer teams in personal boats and kayaks as they made their way from south to north, staying within 100 yards of the bridges east side. Eric Hansen, event organizer for the Mackinac Bridge Swim monitors the swimmers as they cross the Straits of Mackinac in Mackinaw City, Mich. on Saturday, July 26, 2025. 266 swimmers took on the 4.5-mile swim for charity, all swimmers made it to St. Ignace before 11 a.m. Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.com The United States Coast Guard shadowed the participants and closed the shipping lane beneath the bridge to all freight and recreational traffic. First responders from both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City stood ready to provide emergency support. Scenes from the Mackinac Bridge Swim in Mackinaw City, Mich. on Saturday, July 26, 2025. 266 swimmers took on the 4.5-mile swim for charity across the Straits of Mackinac, all swimmers made it to St. Ignace before 11 a.m. Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.com This was the first time the Straits shipping lane was closed for the event, which Hansen said nearly took an act of Congress. The shipping lane is vital for cargo vessels on the Great Lakes and is rarely if ever closed he said, barring an emergency. Scenes from the Mackinac Bridge Swim in Mackinaw City, Mich. on Saturday, July 26, 2025. 266 swimmers took on the 4.5-mile swim for charity across the Straits of Mackinac, all swimmers made it to St. Ignace before 11 a.m. Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.com While some swimmers needed assistance during the journey (either being pulled onto a boat or taking breaks before continuing), every swimmer reached the I did it line at Bridge View Park on the northwest side of the bridge in St. Ignace by 11 a.m., with the fastest completing the crossing in 90 minutes. An aerial image of the I did it line during the Mackinac Bridge Swim in St. Ignace, Mich. on Saturday, July 26, 2025. 266 swimmers took on the 4.5-mile swim for charity across the Straits of Mackinac, all swimmers made it to St. Ignace before 11 a.m. Santino Mattioli | MLive.com Among the successful participants was 81-year-old John Walker of Wisconsin, who completed the full 4.5-mile journey across the Straits. John Walker, 81, of Wisconsin sits on a chair after completing the 4.5-mile Mackinac Bridge Swim across the Straits of Mackinac in St.Ignace, Mich. on Saturday, July 26, 2025. 266 swimmers took on the grueling swim for charity, all swimmers made it to St. Ignace before 11 a.m. Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.com Hansen, who has completed the swim multiple times himself, greeted the final swimmer as they came ashore in St. Ignace. During the after-party, which featured a meal prepared by first responders, Hansen received a proclamation from Mackinaw City and was named an honorary fire chief by the departments. Eric Hansen, event organizer for the Mackinac Bridge Swim talks with a fellow swimmer as they embark on the volunteer swim across the Straits of Mackinac in Mackinaw City, Mich. on Friday, July 25, 2025. Volunteers had the opportunity to swim Thursday morning, before 300 swimmers planned to take on the swim on Saturday. Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.com The event has personal significance for Hansen. The first time he swam across the divide between Michigans Upper and Lower Peninsulas, he was the last person to arrive in St. Ignace, reaching the finish line as organizers were breaking it down. Eric Hansen, splash coordinator presents $50,000 checks to the Mackinaw City and St. Ignace fire departments after the Mackinac Bridge Swim fundraiser in Mackinaw City, Mich. on Saturday, July 26, 2025. 266 swimmers took on the 4.5-mile swim across the Straits of Mackinac, all swimmers made it to St. Ignace before 11 a.m. Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.co This years swim raised $100,000 for local emergency servicesa significant increase from last years $56,000. Hansen presented checks of $50,000 to each department during the post-swim celebration. The Mackinac Bridge spans approximately 5 miles connecting Michigans Upper and Lower Peninsulas, with two 552-foot tall towers and a span of 7,400 feet. Click here to see the full photo gallery from the 2025 Mackinac Bridge Swim A shoulder patch on a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent uniform on Oct. 6, 2016. (Larry MacDougal via AP) ASSOCIATED PRESS SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MI An immigrant alleged to be a member of the Tren De Aragua gang was arrested by U.S. Border Patrol agents during a recent traffic stop in Metro Detroit. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, agents from the CBP Marysville station responded to a request for assistance on Wednesday, July 23, from authorities in Shelby Township. The agency alleges the vehicle was occupied by three Venezuelan nationals, and that the vehicle displayed a fraudulent license plate. Border Patrol agents reportedly performed record checks on each individual, who were all alleged to be in the U.S. illegally. One individual, a 30-year-old male, was identified as a member of Tren de Aragua, a designated foreign terrorist organization, according to BP. Authorities said the 30-year-old has faced multiple pending charges since 2023, including weapons and immigration violations and violent robbery. In a statement, Detroit Sector Chief Patrol Agent John Morris said an active warrant against the individual stemmed from a failure to appear issue in Denver, Colorado. He alleged the arrest removes another dangerous criminal from the country. This marks the second arrest of a gang member from a foreign terrorist organization this month and underscores the relentless efforts of our agents and law enforcement partners, Morris said. The name of the individual had not been released as of Monday. The individual arrested faces removal from the U.S., according to CBP. Tren de Aragua has been a designated terrorist organization sicne Feb. 20 this year, according to the U.S. Department of State. Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew Lt. Steven Durfee aircraft commander Lt. j.g. Donald Hood aircraft pilot Petty Officer 2nd Class James Lowen rescue swimmer and Petty Officer 2nd Class Sean Long Aviation Maintenance Technician speak to the survivors of their MEDEVAC mission at the Pellston Regional Airport in Michigan on July 28 2025. The helicopter crew conducted the rescue mission in Sturgeon Bay on Lake Michigan prior to transporting the three survivors to the airport to awaiting Emergency Medical Services. Photo provided by Air Station Traverse City STURGEON BAY, MI - U.S. Coast Guard helicopter and response boat crews rescued three people from Lake Michigan on Monday after their boat capsized off the shore of Wilderness State Park. The incident occurred in Sturgeon Bay, which sits between Cross Village and Mackinaw City in Northern Michigan. A Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City helicopter team worked with a Station St. Ignace crew on the scene. Coast Guard video shows a rescue swimmer descending from the Jayhawk helicopter and reaching the people in the water. The people were then loaded into a rescue basket and hoisted up and into the chopper. All three had been wearing life jackets, the Coast Guard said. They were taken to the nearby Pellston Regional Airport, where emergency medical personnel were waiting to check their conditions. The crew operated with outstanding teamwork, which is a result of the numerous hours spent training alongside station personnel and assets like Station St. Ignace for moments like these, said Lt. j.g. Nicholas Betts, the Air Station Traverse City public affairs officer. Thanks to the survivors for wearing life jackets - which made locating and rescuing them far more efficient - the crews were able to save three lives today. The Coast Guard said it received the initial report that a 16-foot vessel had capsized around 1:27 p.m. Monday. Three people were said to be in the water. An Urgent Marine Broadcast was issued. A response boat from Station St. Ignace was launched, and an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Air Station Traverse City was diverted to the scene. Once the people were rescued, the Coast Guard checked to make sure there were no signs of pollution from the capsized boat, and no debris or navigation hazards for other boaters to come across. The Coast Guards Jayhawk helicopters were specifically chosen because they are efficient for search-and-rescue operations on the Great Lakes. WEXFORD COUNTY, MI -- A 23-year-old man is accused of purposely crashing his car following an argument with a 19-year-old passenger that left the passenger with serious injuries. Michigan State Police say the suspect, Levi Oung, of Cadillac, was arrested and arraigned on July 21 in connection with the June 11 crash. On the night of the crash, police responded to the area of E. 44 Road near S. 43 Road in Clam Lake Township around 12:15 a.m. for reports of a single-car crash. Once on scene, troopers determined that the vehicle had left the roadway and struck a utility pole. An MSP investigation alleges the crash took place after Oung got into an argument with the female passenger and "intentionally ran off the road into the gravel portion of the roadway." After returning to the roadway, Oung lost control of the vehicle and veered across the road into the opposite lanes of travel. The vehicle then entered a ditch before hitting the pole. The passenger was hospitalized with serious injuries. Oung is charged with one count of reckless driving causing serious impairment of a body function. Bond was set at $25,000 cash/surety. Oung is due back in court on July 29. A woman holding a 1-year-old child died after she was run over by a vehicle in a parking lot. Kaytie Boomer | MLive.com OAKLAND COUNTY, MI A community is rallying to support the family of a woman who died after she was run over in a parking lot. Sam Skinner, 29, of Warren was holding her 1-year-old daughter Marley when she was hit by a Ford Explorer at Alexs Market & Grill in Holly Township at 6:30 p.m. on July 27. Tiffany MacDermaid, Skinners cousin and close friend, told WXYZ-TV in Detroit that Sam was at the market for a routine custody exchange and that she is likely the reason Marly survived. Its tragic what happened to Sam. Im grateful that Marley is still with us, of course. But yeah, it is very telling that Sam obviously protected her baby... up until that last moment, its just a true statement of her character, MacDermaid said. She was born to be a mother. Michigan State Police say a 72-year-old male from Carleton pulled out of the parking spot next to Skinner, who was holding the child while loading her son into the vehicle, and hit them both. Skinner was pronounced dead at the scene. The child was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries in what family called a blessing amidst the heartbreak. The suspect was arrested on suspicion of narcotics impairment. A search warrant was obtained for a blood draw, police said. A GoFundMe has been set up to help the family, which includes her husband, Kyle, and stepson, Roman. Sam was more than just a victim of this senseless tragedyshe was a vibrant, kind, and selfless soul, the fundraiser said. A devoted mother to her 1-year-old daughter, Marley, a loving stepmother of 5-year-old, Roman, a cherished daughter and sister, and a loyal friend to so many. Her warmth, laughter, and unconditional love will never be forgotten. Nearly $72,000 has been raised toward a $100,000 goal as of Tuesday morning. Funds are being raised to help with funeral expenses, counseling, childcare, hospital costs of Marley, and helping Kyle find stability. Every dollar helps, and every share spreads awareness of the beautiful life Sam livedand the support her family now needs, the fundraiser said. Please keep Kyle, Marley, Roman, and all of Sams loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you for honoring Sams memory with your love and generosity. METRO DETROIT, MI The sudden and heavy rainfall that swept through Southeastern Michigan Monday left a surge of flooding and power outages across the region, setting one record hours before precipitation was expected to end. According to the Wayne County Airport Authority, which operates Detroit Metro Airport, the intense downpour led to a temporary surge of flooding at several locations across the airport campus and impacted flights. As of around 4 p.m. Monday, July 28, that included the Dingell Drive tunnel. Two hours later, however, flood waters around the airport had begun to recede, enabling traffic access to and from the McNamara Terminal from the south end off Eureka Road. The record rainfall was set at 2.4 inches at the Detroit airport as of 4 p.m., breaking a 2011 record of 2.16 inches. Additional rainfall was to be added to the days total before midnight. Meanwhile, upwards of 5,000 DTE Energy customers were without electricity as of 7:30 p.m. Monday with hundreds more out around Southeastern Michigan, according to the companys outage map. Another 5,200 customers with Consumers Energy were reported to be without power north of Midland and Bay City. State and local authorities continued to encourage residents use of caution on local roadways. Flood warnings for part of Wayne and Macomb counties were issued earlier Monday. The Traverse City Walmart will not reopen until Wednesday, July 30 after the mass stabbing that took place over the weekend. Dylan Goetz MLive TRAVERSE CITY, MI A group of interfaith leaders has organized a vigil in Traverse City in the aftermath of a mass stabbing of 11 people during the recent weekend. A nonprofit group called the SALT Coalition an acronym for Spiritual Activists Leading Together has organized an interfaith prayer vigil for those affected by Saturdays extreme violence at a Walmart store in the up-north Michigan town. None of the stabbing victims died from their wounds, but at least a half-dozen people were initially left in critical condition. Medical officials expect all wounded victims to physically recover. However, the communitys sense of peace has been significantly rattled. The upcoming vigil is planned for 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1, at Sunset Park in Traverse City. The park is at 635 E. Front St., on the shore of the western arm of Lake Michigans Grand Traverse Bay. Jessica Forster, SALTs lead organizer, said the purpose of the vigil is to stand in solidarity as a community with those who were directly affected by the violence, like the stabbing victims, witnesses and store employees traumatized by the event. Related: It shakes you to the very core: Traverse City looks to heal after mass stabbing We want to hold space for that grief that everyones feeling, Forster said. We want to be clear that when violence is at our doorstep, that were not going to shrink back in fear or lash out in aggression. Were going to keep reaching out to each other in love. The SALT Coalition is an interfaith group from across multiple belief systems that advocates civil discourse in the public square among those with differing views. The groups members wanted to mark the moment after the Traverse City community was collectively shocked by the recent Saturday afternoon violence at a busy shopping center in Garfield Township. Witnesses described it like something out of a horror movie. Authorities say a Northern Michigan man named Bradford James Gille, 42, randomly began stabbing people with a pocketknife starting around 4:43 p.m. Saturday, July 26, while at a Walmart store in the Traverse City area. The stabbing spree began inside the shopping center and continued out into the parking lot. Officials said thats where before first responders arrived, multiple bystanders intervened and helped subdue Gille, including one man with a pistol. Grand Traverse Sheriff Mike Shea praised those who acted, arguing they prevented Gille from harming more people. Bradford James Gille appears remotely in front of Chief Magistrate Tammi Rodgers, Monday, July 28, 2025, in Traverse City, Mich., on terrorism and assault with intent to murder charges in connection with stabbing attacks on Saturday at Walmart. (Jan-Michael Stump/Traverse City Record-Eagle via AP) AP Public records show Gille has faced profound mental health problems dating back to his childhood, as well as a lengthy criminal record. On Monday, July 28, Gille was arraigned on 11 charges of attempted murder and one count of terrorism during an online court appearance. He remains jailed on a $100,000 bond. Meanwhile, Forster said everyone in the community is welcome to attend the vigil on Friday night to link arms with one another and support one another. With the people that Ive interacted with personally in this time, there is a sense of sadness and a sense of grief, she said. There is a true desire to bring this type of love and peace in the midst of the grief that we feel. Since taking office for a second time in January President Donald Trump has been sued by the Michigan Attorney General 27 times. AP Michigan has joined a coalition of 22 states in suing the Trump Administration over a provision in the Big Beautiful Bill that would block the use of Medicaid funds for any care obtained at Planned Parenthood. Attorney General Dana Nessel said the provision threatens at least 200 health centers nationwide, including 10 clinics in Michigan. The Defund Provision of the bill President Donald Trump signed into law on July 4 blocks federal Medicaid funding for essential medical services at Planned Parenthood centers, including cancer screenings, birth control, STI testing, and wellness exams, according to a statement from Nessels office. Planned Parenthood clinics are a critical part of Michigans health care system, delivering vital services to communities across the state, Nessel said in the statement. The Trump Administrations push to strip funding from these providers is an unlawful political tactic aimed at undermining care, even in states like Michigan, where the right to reproductive freedom is protected by our constitution. I remain committed to standing up for Michiganders ability to access the healthcare they need from the providers they trust. In the filing, the coalition argued the Defund Provision violates Congress Spending Clause power. It also is likely to increase health risks, including delayed diagnoses of STIs and cancer and increased unintended pregnancies, which will result not only in widespread negative effects on public health, but also increased costs of $52 million over the next 10 years in Medicaid programs, as projected by the Congressional Budget Office. The coalition urged the court to enjoin the Trump Administration from implementing the provision to prevent the harm it will have on public health and welfare, as well as the increased costs to the states. In filing the lawsuit, Nessel was joined by the attorneys general of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. The suit comes shortly after U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani on Monday ruled the federal government cannot block Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicaid payments, the Associated Press reported. Patients are likely to suffer adverse health consequences where care is disrupted or unavailable, Talwani wrote in her Monday order. In particular, restricting Members ability to provide healthcare services threatens an increase in unintended pregnancies and attendant complications because of reduced access to effective contraceptives, and an increase in undiagnosed and untreated STIs. Tuesdays filing is the latest in a suing spree from Michigans attorney general, who on Monday joined California Attorney General Rob Bonta and New York Attorney General Letitia James in announcing a lawsuit against Trumps Agriculture Department for demanding that states release personal data from the SNAP program. Nessel said the SNAP program in Michigan provides $254 million in food assistance to about $1.4 million recipients every month. She accused the Trump Administration of wanting to create a database to share with other unrelated federal agencies. This is a direct threat to the health and safety of our states most vulnerable residents, she said. Under Nessels leadership, the state of Michigan so far has filed or signed onto 27 lawsuits against Trumps administration since he took office for a second time in January. They range from challenging Trumps attempts to end birthright citizenship or freeze federal funding to states, to Elon Musks limitless and unchecked power to strip the government, during his short stint in the White House. In a March interview with MLive, Nessel said these legal battles are an important way to push back against Trump, who she said wants to be king. The doughnuts and coffee chain is looking to establish a presence in the downtown core while also opening two new locations in Grandville and Kentwood later this year. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media GRAND RAPIDS, MI Downtown Grand Rapids could be getting a Dunkin doughnuts. With two Dunkin locations in Grandville and Kentwood expected to open this year, a franchisee for the Boston-area company is searching for a spot in downtown Grand Rapids, said Bob Lotzar, senior vice president of NAI Wisinski of West Michigan, a commercial real estate firm. Lotzar said he hasnt yet found a downtown location for Dunkin. But the franchisee would like it to be in the core of downtown in a spot that would capitalize on foot traffic generated by DeVos Place, the Kent County Courthouse, Van Andel Arena and other destinations, he said. The synergy we have downtown is great, so we just have to find a spot and make it happen, Lotzar said. He said the Dunkin locations in Grandville, 3043 28th St. SW, and Kentwood, 1800 44th St. SE, are expected to open later this year. If the new downtown Grand Rapids location were to open, that would bring the number of Dunkin spots in Kent County to six, according to a release. Hudsonville Ice Cream co-manufactures products for global brands, in addition to its own popular brand, at its facility on East 48th Street in Holland. BPN HOLLAND, MI Hudsonville Ice Cream is moving forward with a major Holland expansion thanks to a $13 million boost from the state. The Michigan Strategic Fund Board on Tuesday, July 29, approved a $700,000 Michigan Business Development Program grant and a 15-year, State Essential Services Assessment Exemption, valued at about $600,000, for a planned $40 million expansion of Hudsonville Ice Creams Holland facility. Hudsonville Ice Cream plans to expand in Holland to have capacity for a renewed, 10-year contract with a global customer, according to a memo from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. A spokesperson for Hudsonville Ice Cream declined to disclose the identity of the global customer, but Nate Sytsma, chief financial officer of Hudsonville Ice Cream, said the corporation is a large, publicly traded company that is really strong from a financial perspective. With this customer in particular, they have a variety of products out in the marketplace, and I would say were forming a really tight-knit relationship with them that could lead to further growth in the future, he said. In addition to its own popular ice cream brand, Hudsonville Ice Cream co-manufactures products for numerous regional, national and global brands. The expansion project includes a new novelty bar production line; renovation and modification to the existing dairy production room; improvements such as buildout of existing capacity, plumbing, HVAC and electrical work; and the purchase of new machinery and equipment. The MEDC memo stated Hudsonvilles customer has the option to keep production in-house, making the investment instead at one of its facilities outside of Michigan. The company sought financial support from the state to ensure it could cost-effectively install the new production line while meeting the customers ideal price point and delivery dates. If these demands couldnt be met, then the current contract might not be renewed, resulting in idle capacity once the contract expires and workforce reduction by the end of 2026, according to the memo. Hudsonville is beginning renovations this summer and will begin factory testing of a new novelty ice cream bar line in the fall, which the company expects to have running in the first quarter of 2026, Sytsma said. The project is expected to create at least 44 new jobs with starting wages of $22 per hour, plus benefits. The company already has begun recruiting to fill the jobs needed to operate the new production line, Cindy Bauman, chief human resources officer with Hudsonville Ice Cream, said. Weve kicked off a new training program where these 44 individuals will be learning different areas of our company and then be placed on this novelty line, she said. Consumers, meanwhile, are moving away from packaged ice cream in favor of novelty items like bars and other single-serve treats, Sytsma said. Rather than your traditional half-gallon that you would have bought at a grocery store, a lot more families are now buying snackable things or hand-held things, and as weve moved further into ice cream novelties production, weve seen that area of our business grow just due to consumer shifts in the marketplace, he said. Hudsonville Ice Creams brand distribution reaches as far west as Minnesota, down south through the Plains states and through the east coast. The company also co-manufactures ice cream brands that ship to all 50 states from its Holland facility, Sytsma said. A worker died in an machine accident an an LG Energy Solutions facility in Holland. (MLive File Photo) Becky Particka | MLive.com HOLLAND, MI A worker was killed in a workplace accident at LG Energy Solutions, Holland police said. The victim was identified as Kim Jung Won of South Korea. The incident happened just after 5 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at the facility at 865 E. 48th Street in Holland, police said. Won was working for LG PRI, a vendor company performing machinery operations at the LG Energy facility, when Won became partially trapped in a machine, police said. No lifesaving efforts were made because the victim was obviously deceased, police said. Foul play is not suspected. Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) is investigating, police said. A worker died nearly two years ago in a construction accident at LG Energy Solutions. A seal inside the Judge Charles A. Pratt Justice Center located at 330 Eleanor St. in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Ridley Hudson | MLive.com KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI A deputy fire chief is facing charges after a child was injured in an alleged drunk driving crash. Comstock Township Deputy Fire Chief Michael Dyer was arrested on June 22 after running into a juvenile with his truck, according to a Kalamazoo County Sheriffs Office report obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request. An exterior view of the Shaheen Development building in downtown Saginaw. (Kaytie Boomer | MLive.com file) SAGINAW, MI A proposed $35 million mixed-use development tied to the citys medical diamond project inched one step closer to brick-and-mortar reality this week. The Saginaw City Council approved the $1 sale of about 1 acre of city-owned vacant property along the riverside, in the downtown-adjacent neighborhood of MyMichigan Medical Center Saginaw, formerly known as Ascension St. Marys hospital. BAY CITY, MI Three Michigan businessmen have admitted in federal court to scamming the federal government out of millions by falsely claiming their construction and surveying company was minority-owned. Brothers Jeffrey Bartlett and Brian Bartlett and Andrew W. Semenchuk on Monday, July 28, appeared before U.S. District Magistrate Judge Kimberly G. Altman and pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the U.S. The charge is punishable by up to five years in prison followed by three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. BAY CITY, MI After nearly a year of treatment, an Isabella County man accused of stabbing his sleeping parents is psychologically well enough to face a federal trial. U.S. District Magistrate Judge Patricia T. Morris in September found Ethan J. Prill incompetent to participate in court proceedings and ordered him committed to the custody of the U.S. Attorney Generals Office for hospitalization. Morris based her ruling on a clinicians evaluation of Prill, as she ordered the defendant to undergo a competency examination in May 2024. Legislation that would criminalize law enforcement officers who conceal their face or identity while on the job is dead on arrival, according to House Speaker Matt Hall, R-Richland Township, center. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com Legislation that would criminalize law enforcement officers who conceal their face or identity while on the job is dead on arrival, according to Michigan House leadership. The Michigan House will never pass this attack on law enforcement, said House Speaker Matt Hall, R-Richland Township. The people want these dangerous criminal aliens off our street, and we are doing everything we can to partner with the Trump administration and put an end to illegal immigration. Democrats will do everything they can to get in the way of local police and ICE, because theyve always cared more about criminals than victims. But that ends here this ridiculous bill is dead on arrival. The bill unveiled Thursday, July 24, by members of the Democratic minority in the House is largely targeted at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which is increasingly using plainclothes and masked officers during immigration raids and operations to hinder identification. Michigan House Democrats contended these secret police practices generate fear, remove accountability and create an unnecessary risk for the community and other law enforcement. For the average person, these incidents look like violent kidnappings, bill sponsor state Rep. Betsy Coffia, D-Traverse City, said of unmarked officers rounding people up. With this new federal tactic of wearing masks with no identification, there is no way for the public, the people being accosted or grabbed or even local law enforcement and local, state elected leaders to know who these folks are. The proposed concealment ban wouldnt apply to undercover operations or when officers wear masks for health and safety reasons. Trump administration officials have said this practice is needed to safeguard ICE officers. They say ICE officers and their families have been harassed or threatened in public and online after an officers identity is uncovered, the Associated Press reported. Multiple states, including New York and California, are considering similar legislation to ban law enforcement masking in response to ICEs tactics. At the federal level, Michigans Democratic U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin introduced legislation earlier this month that would prohibit immigration enforcement officers, including ICE, Border Patrol and others, from wearing non-medical face coverings and require they display identification of their agency and name or badge number. Since gaining a majority in the chamber earlier this year, Michigan House Republicans have sought to punish local governments for practices and policies that they say interfere with President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown. The Republican majority in May passed legislation that would withhold a majority of state funding from counties and cities that limit cooperation with ICE. The Senate, which is controlled by Democrats, has not taken up those bills and likely wont. But House Republicans also implemented a policy to not consider any budget bill that includes earmark funding for a city or county that refuses compliance with federal immigration enforcement measures or has a policy that subverts immigrant enforcement. It remains to be seen whether the chamber acts on that policy. Budget discussions between the House and Senate have stalled. The proposed mask and identity concealment ban in Michigan would apply to all local, state and federal law enforcement operating in the state but includes provisions for covert operations and masking for officer safety. Violating the proposed law would be a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine up to $1,000. The proposed law mandates that law enforcement officers, while interacting with a member of the public during their duties, must display their name or badge number as well as the full name or initials of their law enforcement agency. Any wearing of a mask or attempt at identity concealment would violate this provision. The prohibition wouldnt apply to undercover operations where an officer must conceal their identity or purpose to investigate and gather evidence of criminal activity. Officers would also be allowed to wear a mask to prevent transmission of airborne diseases, to protect themselves from airborne toxins and to protect themselves from harm while in high-risk situations, including shootouts, standoffs, hostage or terrorist situations and more. Eugenio Suarez signed with the Tigers out of Venezuela and debuted here in 2014. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh) AP DETROIT -- Eugenio Suarez still remembers June 7, 2014, the day he got his first MLB hit and first MLB homer with one swing of the bat against Boston Red Sox starter Jon Lester. Suarez was 22 years old, a shortstop then, wearing the Old English D at Comerica Park. Adivi Sesh on teaming up with Emraan Hashmi for Goodachari 2, says "This is a fan living his dream" Palak Vij USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Palak Vij USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Prabhas gets surprise visit by director Puri Jagannadh, Charmme Kaur on The Raja Saab set: See pics M Snehanjali USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Vijay Deverakonda's mother gets emotional as Anirudh Ravichandran praises his acting in Kingdom at pre-release event M Snehanjali USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Gayatri Rani USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept How to select the best face serums for glowing skin and healthy hair: A beginner's guide Nivi Shrivastava is a Delhi-based journalist who writes on lifestyle, health and travel. Views expressed are personal Bobby John Varkey USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Is audience engagement key in Carnatic music? RaGa sisters Ranjani Gayatri explain why it's the future of Indian Classical Moneycontrol Features USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Not in a hurry to burn our fingers, says CEO Aggarwal after Shriram General gives crop tender bids a miss Malvika Sundaresan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Veer Sharma USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Ishaan Gera USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Namrata Agarwal USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Aditya Infotech IPO Day 1 GMP Live: What you need to know about anchor investors of Aditya Infotech IPO On Monday, Aditya Infotech raised over 582 crore from anchor investors, just a day ahead of opening its IPO for public subscription. The anchor book saw strong demand from both domestic and global institutional investors. Notable participants included the Government of Singapore, the Monetary Authority of Singapore, HDFC Mutual Fund, SBI Mutual Fund, Goldman Sachs, Nomura, Ashoka Whiteoak India Opportunities Fund, and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, according to a circular on the BSE website. As per the circular, the company allotted 86.26 lakh equity shares to 54 anchor investors at 675 per share, amounting to a total of 582.3 crore. Aditya Infotech IPO gets fully subscribed on Day 1, GMP jumps to 38%: Should you apply? Debaroti Adhikary USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Indiqube Spaces shares to list tomorrow, GMP signals muted market debut; should you buy, sell or hold? Debaroti Adhikary USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept IPO, QIP, and SME fundraising touch Rs 1.30 lakh crore in first seven months of 2025 Ravindra Sonavane USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Ravindra Sonavane USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Yeeshu Yadav USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Brajesh Kumar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Sunil Matkar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Abhinav Kaul USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept ITR filing 2025: Opting for the old tax regime? File return by Sep 15 to retain 80C tax deductions Preeti Kulkarni is a financial journalist with over 13 years of experience. Based in Mumbai, she covers the personal finance beat for Moneycontrol. She focusses primarily on insurance, banking, taxation and financial planning Preeti Kulkarni USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept The Last Word: How living wills help ensure death with dignity Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Wish to exclude legal heirs from inheritance? Follow these steps for a watertight will Hiral Thanawala is a personal finance journalist with over 10 years of reporting experience. Based in Mumbai, he covers financial planning, banking and fintech segments from personal finance team for Moneycontrol. Hiral Thanawala USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Rani Kapur vs Sona Comstar: 'I still don't know what happened to my son Sunjay' Debaroti Adhikary USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Meghna Mittal Deputy News Editor at Moneycontrol. Meghna has experience across television, print, online and wire media. She has been covering the Indian economy, monetary and fiscal policies, Finance and Trade ministries. She tweets at @Meghnamittal23 Contact: meghna.mittal@nw18.com Meghna Mittal USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Aishwarya Nair USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Aryaman Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Bhavya Dilipkumar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates from multiple sources Disclaimer This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates from multiple sources Disclaimer This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates from multiple sources Disclaimer This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates from multiple sources Disclaimer Alpha Desk USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept China, US agree to extend tariff pauses after 'constructive' talks in Stockholm Ankit Saproo USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Chhabi Kala USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 'Can't tie a tiger down': Rahul Gandhi targets Centre over lack of political free will during Op Sindoor Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Census to be conducted by 2027 in two phases with caste enumeration, Centre tells Lok Sabha Rewati Karan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept CNBC-TV18 and HSBC India celebrate India's champions on the most coveted SME Awards platform Arindam Roy USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Cop asks woman to wear seatbelt; it saves her life 15 minutes later Smriti Mishra USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 'Dare you to call Trump a liar': Rahul Gandhi's 10 big attacks on Centre during Op Sindoor debate in LS Smriti Mishra USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Smriti Mishra USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Rewati Karan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept How Chinese devices became the Achilles' heel for terrorists killed in Operation Mahadev Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 'Bharatiya...Hindus': Priyanka Gandhi vs Opposition over identity of Pahalgam attack victims in Parliament Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Manipur: Poll officials hold meeting with political parties in six districts on proposed SIR Smriti Mishra USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Siddharth Chakravorty USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Surabhi Pandey USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 'Not one country condemned Pakistan, world equating us with them': Rahul Gandhi's blunt take on Op Sindoor Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Armaan Bhatnagar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Pahalgam attackers to 'security lapse': What prompted Congress' tactical shift on Day 2 of Operation Sindoor debate? Parimal Peeyush USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 'There would be no Pakistan today if ...': Amit Shah rips into Congress in Lok Sabha Deblina Halder USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Parliament session live: Home Minister Amit Shah to move resolution to extend President rule in Manipur Union Home Minister Amit Shah to move the statutory resolution in Lok Sabha: "This House approves the continuance in force of the Proclamation, dated 13th February 2025, in respect of Manipur, issued under Article 356 of the Constitution by the President, for a further period of six months with effect from 13th August 2025." Which essentially means, under Article 356 (3) of the Constitution, President's rule can be extended for six months each with the approval of Parliament. This can be done for up to three years President's rule was imposed in Manipur on February 13 after the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh on February 9, 2025. -- ANI PM Modi blasts Cong over MP's expunged remark on Op Sindoor: 'Like putting acid on Pahalgam victims' wounds' Yeeshu Yadav USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept PM Modi's veiled jibe at Shehbaz Sharif: 'Was in swimming pool when India struck Pakistan' Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Rahul Gandhi rakes up Asim Munir's lunch with US President to target PM Modi: 'Mr Trump broke all protocol' Armaan Bhatnagar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Rahul Gandhi's big warning on Pakistan-China nexus during Op Sindoor, says 'Pak officers embedded in PLA' Hemant Abhishek USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Arishaa Izaj USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 'Salman Khurshid came out crying from Sonia Gandhi's house': Amit Shah tears into Congress over Batla House encounter Deblina Halder USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Some were stopped: PM Modis swipe at Congress over Shashi Tharoors maunvrat in Lok Sabha Smriti Mishra USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept What was POTA? The repealed anti-terror law that sparked Amit Shahs outburst against Congress in LS Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Who is responsible for intel failure that led to Pahalgam attack, Op Sindoor symbol of intel failure: Akhilesh Yadav Rewati Karan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Why is Chidambaran trying to save Pakistan? Amit Shah rebukes Chidambaram for questioning nationality of Pahalgam attackers Siddharth Chakravorty USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 'World supported us, but not Congress': PM Modi slams Opposition on Operation Sindoor in Lok Sabha Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept All 3 terrorists neutralised in Operation Mahadev were involved in Pahalgam attack: Amit Shah Siddharth Chakravorty USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Ankita Sengupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Sheetal Kumari is a skilled sub-editor and content creator with expertise in digital news, multimedia storytelling, and social media content. With a strong grasp of topics like science, politics, and many more, she crafts compelling narratives, transforming complex topics and trending stories into engaging, accessible reads across various media platforms. Lightning over the Volcano of Water: Lightning forms from charge separation in storm clouds, creating fiery bolts hotter than the Sun. This 2019 image shows strikes hitting antennas atop Guatemalas Volcan de Agua. (Image: NASA) Globular Cluster Omega Centauri: Omega Centauri, a massive globular cluster with 10 million stars, may be a galactic core remnant, harbouring varied stellar populations and a possible black hole at its centre. (Image: NASA) Fireball over Cape San Blas: A fireball is a rare, dazzling meteor brighter than Venus, often leaving a smoky trail as it burns through Earths atmosphere, like this one spotted in Florida last week. (Image: NASA) A Double Detonation Supernova: SNR 0509-67.5 may be a rare double-detonation supernova. One explosion triggered another, forming twin shells but its 400-year-old blast strangely went unrecorded and its companion star remains missing. (Image: NASA) ISS Meets Saturn: Saturn and the ISS briefly aligned over Washington on July 6. Captured through a telescope, the rare sight showed both in one frame, despite being 1.4 billion kilometres apart. (Image: NASA) A Helix Nebula Deep Field: The Helix Nebula, a bright planetary nebula 650 light-years away, resembles a cosmic eye. Its glowing gases and complex structure mark a dying stars final breath in vivid detail. (Image: NASA) Messier 6: The Butterfly Cluster (Messier 6) is a 100-star open cluster 1,600 light-years away in Scorpius, featuring young blue stars and a striking orange K-type giant, BM Scorpii. (Image: NASA) Titan Shadow Transit: Saturns moon Titan casts a shadow across the planets surface during its transit season, offering rare views as Saturns rings tilt edge-on every 15 years. (Image: NASA) Cat's Paw Nebula from Webb Space Telescope: The James Webb Space Telescope captures the Cats Paw Nebula in stunning detail, revealing newborn massive stars and offering fresh insight into how turbulent clouds transform gas into brilliant stellar nurseries. (Image: NASA) Twelve Years of Kappa Cygnids: This composite captures Kappa Cygnid meteors over 12 years, aligned above Cretes Elafonisi Beach, showcasing their rare peak in August 2021 amid the Milky Way. (Image: NASA) Sheetal Kumari USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Sheetal Kumari is a skilled sub-editor and content creator with expertise in digital news, multimedia storytelling, and social media content. With a strong grasp of topics like science, politics, and many more, she crafts compelling narratives, transforming complex topics and trending stories into engaging, accessible reads across various media platforms. Sheetal Kumari USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Danish Khan is the editor of Technology and Telecom. He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 14 years. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Danish Khan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Why Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella is grateful to those 15,000 laid-off employees MC Tech Desk Read the latest and trending tech newsstay updated on AI, gadgets, cybersecurity, software updates, smartphones, blockchain, space tech, and the future of innovation. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Shaurya Shubham USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept In August 26 edition of Moneycontrol Pro Panorama: It's silver's moment to shine, lucrative domestic manufacturing would stem fert... Moneycontrol Pro Panorama | How to keep calm and bank on USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Olas AI startup Krutrim lays off over 100 employees in second round of job cuts, report claims MC Tech Desk Read the latest and trending tech newsstay updated on AI, gadgets, cybersecurity, software updates, smartphones, blockchain, space tech, and the future of innovation. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Ankita Chakravarti USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Samsungs new Fold 7 just passed the ultimate torture test: Heres what broke and what didnt Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Ankita Chakravarti USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Shaurya Shubham USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Discover Taumata: New Zealands unassuming hill with the longest place name in the world Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytellingboth visual and textualacross travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences. Priyanka Roshan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Independent MP Nicolette Boele criticizes parliament's lack of ambition in maiden speech Independent MP for Bradfield, Nicolette Boele, used her maiden speech to parliament to criticize what she described as a lack of ambition in dealing with major national issues, according to a report in The Guardian. Boele, who won the traditionally safe Liberal seat by 26 votes, argued that Australia is shifting towards a more "people-centred" democracy. She stated there is a "widespread conviction" that politicians are incapable of tackling systemic problems such as climate change, housing affordability, gambling, and the regulation of online media. Boele contrasted the current parliament's approach with past ambitious reforms like the introduction of Medicare and national gun laws. Fatal police shooting rate in Nunavik is 73 times Quebec's provincial average The per capita rate of fatal police shootings in Nunavik is 73 times higher than the rest of Quebec, according to a report in CBC. An analysis of data from the provincial police watchdog since 2017 shows six people were fatally shot by police in the Nunavik region, which has a population under 15,000. In comparison, 51 fatal police shootings occurred across the rest of the province, which has a population of roughly nine million. Following the findings, some policing experts have suggested that Canada should reform how its police officers are trained. China wants to break out into Pacific waters: How US naval power and geography are pushing it back Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept He just smiled: Why Bangladesh is resisting Chinas push for a trilateral alliance with Pakistan Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Kremlin is silent on new Trump deadline Russia is likely to snub Surabhi Pandey USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept North Korea says Kim-Trump ties 'not bad' but it's not giving up its nuclear weapons 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Outrage in China after reports exploitative images of Chinese women shared in Telegram groups Surabhi Pandey USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept PM Modi says only 3 out of 193 countries backed Pakistan during Op Sindoor; which are those three nations? Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Sharm-el-Sheikh back in focus as NDA slams UPAs 26/11 response: Why is 2009 joint statement controversial Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Trump's global tariff war escalates: Whats changing on August 1 and what it means for US economy Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Trump to finalise global trade decisions by Aug 1: What his ultimatum means for the world Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Two banks with a strong Latin American focus, development bank IDB Invest and multinational bank Bladex, have joined forces to provide a financing package to Millicom-owned operator Telemovil El Salvador aka Tigo of up to US$205 million. IDB Invest is a multilateral development bank committed to promoting the economic development of its member countries in Latin America and the Caribbean through the private sector. Bladex is a multinational bank founded in 1979 by the central banks of Latin America and the Caribbean to promote trade finance and economic integration in the region. The package aims to support the expansion of Tigos fixed broadband network and the enhancing of the capacity and quality of its mobile infrastructure in El Salvador, and to refinance its maturing debt. The partners explain that data traffic is expected to surge in the coming years, and thus that expanding and upgrading network infrastructure is crucial. By enhancing broadband services, the project aims to unlock access to digital education, telehealth and e-commerce opportunities for underserved populations. The financing package includes a US$150 million loan co-structured by both institutions, with US$75 million contributed by IDB Invest and US$75 million by Bladex. The new assistance also includes a US$30 million revolving credit facility (RCF) and a US$25 million digital account receivables discount facility, both fully provided by IDB Invest. The RCF will support the acquisition of specialised equipment, while the digital discount facility will finance the sale or lease of smartphones and digital services to clients, broadening access to mobile broadband, especially for middle and low-income users. Through this facility, IDB Invest says it may purchase receivables from Tigo and provide liquidity for device financing, helping to close the affordability gap in handset access. US nuclear weapons return to UK after 17 years: What it signals for NATO and Russia | Explained Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Visa-free, but not entry-free: Why 10 Indian men were turned away at Malaysias Kuala Lumpur Airport Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Arindam Roy USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Moroccos telecommunications regulator, the ANRT, has awarded 5G licences to the countrys three main operators - Maroc Telecom, Inwi, and Orange Morocco - raising MAD2.1 billion (US$210 million) for state coffers and marking a major step forward in the countrys national digital transformation agenda. The ANRT expects the operators to launch commercial 5G services by the end of this year, starting with deployments in several major cities. The three operators were selected following an evaluation process that assessed their technical and financial capabilities, as well as their commitment to nationwide 5G infrastructure rollout. Wana, which operates under the Inwi brand, and Maroc Telecom (which runs Itissalat Al-Maghrib) both received a score of 87 out of 100 in the ANRTs assessment. Medi Telecom, known to consumers as Orange Morocco, scored 85. As part of their licence agreements, the operators have committed to a range of obligations including infrastructure investment, coverage milestones, and maintaining service quality. Collectively, they plan to invest around MAD80 billion (US$8 billion) over the next decade to support their respective 5G rollouts. Maroc Telecom paid MAD900 million for 120MHz of spectrum, while Medi Telecom and Wana each paid MAD600 million for 70MHz. Under the terms of the licences, operators must cover at least 45% of the population with 5G by the end of 2026, ramping up to 85% coverage by 2030. Speaking at the ANRT board meeting where the licences were approved, Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch said telecommunications remain a vital pillar of Moroccos development, essential to improving economic indicators and bridging both digital and geographic divides. He described universal connectivity - including in remote and mountainous areas - as a non-negotiable priority. The ANRT has been tasked with identifying underserved regions and coordinating a predefined national coverage plan in collaboration with government departments and the private sector. Morocco currently counts 57 million mobile subscribers and 40 million internet users, giving it an internet penetration rate of 90% - significantly above the African average of 37%. According to ANRT Director General Az-El-Arabe Hassibi, this places Morocco at the top of the International Telecommunication Unions 2025 ICT Development Index for Africa. Private network development is, arguably, one of the few successful applications of 5G technology so far. Indeed, Eviden, a specialist in advanced computing, cybersecurity products, mission-critical systems and vision AI (and a brand of the digital transformation-focused Atos Group), has just announced that it has been awarded a strategic contract to deploy a 5G mobile private network at the Port of Ploce in Croatia. This initiative, which will feature key components of the Eviden Lifelink solution, marks a major step in the ports digital transformation journey through the ambitious Smart Port project, aimed at modernising logistics, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing security using cutting-edge 5G technology. The Port of Ploce serves as a critical logistics hub in Central and Southeastern Europe, and, Eviden says, the deployment of a dedicated 5G network will enable seamless, real-time connectivity across port operations. The project is being delivered in collaboration with local partner Markoja, which offers a wide range of services in the area of construction and maintenance of telecommunications and automation equipment. Eviden says its Lifelink solution is specifically designed for mission-critical environments. It offers secure and resilient communication; low-latency, high-throughput connectivity; integration with IoT, AI, and edge computing; and custom engineering for complex operational landscapes. The Lifelink 5G Mobile Private Network key components deployed by Evidens critical communications experts, support a number of offerings. They include a real-time location system (RTLS) enabling accurate tracking of ships and vehicles, improving traffic, mooring and parking management within the port, and increasing security by preventing unauthorised access. Theres also advanced cargo monitoring implementation of smart cameras and sensors for automated cargo identification and analytics, improving the safety and efficiency of terminal operations. Meanwhile, deployment of thermal cameras, fire sensors, and air and sea quality measurement sensors, along with a local weather station, strengthens safety protocols and emergency response capabilities. The 5G private network will also support real-time drone operations for cargo and infrastructure monitoring. Eviden says the proven success of the solution, including its use for energy and utilities, has now led it to expand into large-scale infrastructure projects in the transport and manufacturing sectors. Attack on military base in Burkina Faso kills about 50 soldiers, residents say View Photo LAGOS, Nigeria (AP) An attack by an armed group on a military base in northern Burkina Faso has left about 50 soldiers dead, according to accounts by a community leader and a resident on Tuesday. The Jamaat Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin group, or JNIM, was suspected of carrying out the attack Monday on the base in Dargo in Boulsa province in the northern region of the landlocked West African nation. The two sources, who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they feared repercussions from the military, said about 100 militants participated in the attack, and that the gunmen burned and looted the base after the killings. The military government has yet to publicly acknowledge the attack. JNIM, one of several armed groups conducting attacks across West Africa, has been blamed for hundreds of civilian and military deaths. Burkina Faso is witnessing a surge in attacks by armed groups who are in control of most of the country, especially outside of the capital. The deteriorating security situation has led to political shifts in the country and served as the pretext for back-to-back coups. The military leader, Ibrahim Traore, has been unable to rein in the Islamist groups despite his redrawing of political and military allies. India says 3 militants killed in Kashmir were behind the massacre that sparked a clash with Pakistan India says 3 militants killed in Kashmir were behind the massacre that sparked a clash with Pakistan View Photo NEW DELHI (AP) Three suspected militants killed in a gunbattle in the disputed region of Kashmir were responsible for a shooting massacre in which more than two dozen people died and that led to a military clash between India and Pakistan earlier this year, a Indian government official said Tuesday. The Pakistani nationals were killed Monday in a joint operation by the military, paramilitary and police on the outskirts of Kashmirs main city of Srinagar, Home Minister Amit Shah said in Indias lower house of parliament. The Associated Press couldnt independently verify the details. Rifle cartridges found at the site matched those used during the killings in April, Shah said. The bodies of the men were identified by residents who had provided food and shelter to them before they carried out the massacre, he said. It wasnt clear whether the locals were considered accomplices. There was no immediate response from Pakistans government. But state-run Pakistan Radio reported after the gunbattle on Monday that India had planned fake encounters targeting Pakistani nationals held in Indian prisons. It provided no further details. Pakistan has long accused India of staging gunbattles in Kashmir and sometimes pulling Pakistani prisoners from Indian jails and killing them in faked shootouts while passing off them as combatants. New Delhi has regularly rejected these allegations and accused Pakistan of sending armed militants into India and orchestrating attacks. The massacre more than three months ago killed 26 people, mostly Hindu tourists. India blamed the attack on Pakistan, which denied responsibility, while calling for a neutral investigation. It led to tit-for-tat military strikes by India and Pakistan that brought the nuclear-armed rivals to the brink of their third war over the region. Dozens of people were killed on both sides until a ceasefire was reached on May 10 after U.S. mediation. The four days of fighting between the nuclear-armed rivals was their worst in decades. Before the April 22 killings in the Kashmiri resort town of Pahalgam, fighting had largely ebbed in the regions Kashmir Valley, the heartland of an anti-India rebellion, and mainly shifted to the mountainous areas of Jammu in the last few years. India and Pakistan each administer part of Kashmir, but both claim the Himalayan territory in its entirety. Militants in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir have been fighting New Delhis rule since 1989. India describes militancy in Kashmir as Pakistan-backed terrorism an accusation that Islamabad denies. Many Muslim Kashmiris support the rebels goal of uniting the territory, either under Pakistani rule or as an independent country. Tens of thousands of civilians, rebels and government forces have been killed in the conflict. ___ Munir Ahmed contributed to this report from Islamabad. By SHEIKH SAALIQ Associated Press Senator Alvarado-Gil To Host Coffee Meet and Greet In Sonora Sonora, CA Mother Lode State Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil will host a public Coffee Meet & Greet on Tuesday, July 29 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. at the City Hall Council Chambers, located at 94 S. Washington St. in downtown Sonora. The informal event invites residents to enjoy hot coffee and cookies while connecting with Alvarado-Gil and sharing concerns on key regional issues, including education, public safety, housing, and wildfire recovery. Join me for coffee and conversationI would love to meet you! the senator said in an invitation to the community. The event is free and open to the public. For questions, attendees can call 530-417-0807. Democrats implore Trump to step up role in addressing suffering and starvation in Gaza View Photo WASHINGTON (AP) Senate Democrats are imploring President Donald Trumps administration to step up its role in addressing suffering and starvation in Gaza, with more than 40 senators signing onto a letter Tuesday urging the resumption of ceasefire talks and sharply criticizing an Israeli-backed American organization that had been created to distribute food aid. In a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Republican presidents special envoy, Steve Witkoff, the senators said the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, created in February with backing from the Trump administration, has failed to address the deepening humanitarian crisis and contributed to an unacceptable and mounting civilian death toll around the organizations sites. It marked a mostly united plea from Senate Democrats who are locked out of power in Washington for the Trump administration to recalibrate its approach after the collapse of ceasefire talks last week. Trump on Monday broke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying he wanted him to make sure they get the food in Gaza and referencing the images of hungry children. Trump on Monday said that the U.S. would set up food centers to address the worsening humanitarian crisis, but he did not offer any details. White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly followed up with a statement that said details would be forthcoming and that Trump wants to alleviate suffering for the people of Gaza because he has a humanitarian heart. The White House and the State Department on Tuesday still had no details about the plans for food centers. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce defended Gaza Humanitarian Foundations work at a briefing and said the president would announce new plans once he returns from his trip to Scotland. The issue here is getting more food, more access, more everything. That has always been at the top of our list, Bruce said, but declined to discuss specifics about the situation. GOP Sen. Jim Risch, chair of the Senate Foreign Relations committee, confirmed Tuesday that had been briefed on the food centers, but he declined to provide more details on them. Still, Democrats were calling for a large-scale expansion of aid into Gaza channeled through organizations experienced working in the area. Democratic Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii said that changes to the way Israel allows aid into Gaza were at fault, adding that it was not at all credible to think the Israeli military one of the most advanced in the world is incapable of facilitating aid distribution or performing crowd control. They made a choice to establish a new way of doing food distribution, he said. And its not working at all. Another Democratic member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, said he had not yet heard anything about the centers, and that hes very skeptical that Trumps plans will address the issue of starvation in Gaza. Could the U.S. set up food centers? Yes, but what about the World Food Program, Mercy Corps and all the groups have been doing it for decades? Why dont we allow them to do it? Kaine told The Associated Press. The letter also says efforts for a ceasefire agreement are as critical and urgent as ever. The message was led by four Jewish members of the Democratic Caucus Sens. Adam Schiff of California, Chuck Schumer of New York, Jacky Rosen of Nevada and Schatz and calls for the return of the roughly 50 hostages, 20 still believed to be alive, held by Hamas since its Oct. 7, 2023, attack. The signatures from 44 senators the vast majority of the Senate Democratic Caucus on the letter show the extent to which Democrats have achieved some unity on a foreign policy issue that deeply divided them while they held the White House last year. They called for an end to the war that sees Hamas no longer in control of Gaza and a long-term goal of both an Israeli and a Palestinian state and opposed any permanent displacement of the Palestinian people. Schiff said the letter showed how most in the caucus believe that the current situation is just unsustainable. Theres just too much heartbreak and death, too much hunger and loss of life, he added. Meanwhile, Republicans are backing Trumps handling of the situation and supporting Israel. Sen. John Cornyn, a Texas Republican who sits on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said he was satisfied with Trump trying to referee that, but the Israelis need to get their hostages back. Still, images of the worsening hunger crisis in Gaza seemed to be reaching some Republican members of Congress. Over the weekend, far-right Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, who routinely calls for an end to foreign aid, said on social media what has been happening to innocent people and children in Gaza is horrific. This war and humanitarian crisis must end! For Schatz, it was a sign many Americans do care about suffering in other parts of the world, even after Trump won the election with America First foreign policy goals and kickstarted his administration by demolishing U.S. foreign aid programs. They are seeing images of chaos, images of suffering that are either caused by the United States or at least could have been prevented by the United States, Schatz said. And it is redounding negatively to the president. ___ Associated Press writers Joey Cappelletti and Michelle L. Price contributed to this report. By STEPHEN GROVES Associated Press Anchorage warns hikers after 2 bear attacks in a week View Photo ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) Authorities are warning hikers to steer clear of streams and rivers where salmon are running and to take precautions after bears mauled hikers on two different occasions within a week in Anchorage. Both unidentified hikers survived the attacks in separate parts of the municipality of Anchorage, a sprawling urban-wildlife interface that spreads across 1,961 square miles (5,079 square kilometers), an area slightly larger than the state of Rhode Island. Anchorage is home to about 290,000 people, or about 40% of the states population, and all kinds of wildlife, including an estimated 350 black bears, 65 brown bears and 1,600 moose. One Facebook group captures stunning videos and photographs of bears, moose, wolves and other wildlife living and traveling within a half mile of a populated neighborhood in east Anchorage, in the shadows of the Chugach Mountains. Every year we recommend that folks avoid salmon-bearing streams because that concentrates both species of bears, said Cory Stantorf, the Anchorage area biologist for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Thats a major food source for these animals as they get ready for that hibernation season coming up. Both bear maulings in the last week occurred near populated areas, including the second attack Saturday near the suburb of Eagle River. A man was walking on a trail that runs parallel to the south fork of the Eagle River, where salmon are running, when his unleashed dog happened upon a brown bear with a cub, said Timothy Gurnett, a Chugach State Park ranger. The bear mauled the hiker, who unloaded his entire can of spray deterrent to ward off the bear, first to stop the attack and then a second time when the bear returned. The sow and her cub disappeared into the woods. Armed officials searched for the bear on foot and with a drone, but the bear had left the area. Officials believe the sow was protecting her cub, and dont intend to kill it. Thats not something we go after bears for because any sow in that position would have likely done the same, Stantorf said. The first attack occurred July 22 when a bear attacked a woman on a popular trail in a hillside neighborhood overlooking Anchorage and Cook Inlet. The woman called police and said she had been attacked by what she thought was a brown bear about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) into the trail near the Stuckagain Heights neighborhood. Cyndi Wardlow, a regional supervisor for the state Department of Fish and Game, said shortly after the attack that it has not been determined if the bear was a brown bear or a cinnamon black bear, which could look like a brown bear. Visibility on the trail was very low, with tall grass and heavy brush. Wardlow said staff was able to collect hair and scat samples for submission for analysis, but it could take two weeks to get results. Stantorf said they are still waiting for results. Officials were hoping the samples could shed light on the type of bear and if it was male or female. Since they didnt know what they were working with, she said they werent actively searching for an animal after that. At this time of the year, people should avoid the salmon-bearing waterways. Theres so many other places to hike, Gurnett said. Those areas include over 300 miles (483 kilometers) of trails within Chugach State Park, 95% of which lies within the Municipality of Anchorage. Hikers should be extra vigilant when they are next to a river since the water masks sounds, and bears dont hear people coming. Hikers could carry and sound air horns to let bears know they are nearby. Bears dont want to be around us. They want to be somewhere else, he said. Regardless of where people may hike, whether it is in the backcountry or near waterways, there is always a chance they could have a bear encounter or come across a moose, wolf or wolverine, Stantorf said. Stantorf recommends people travel in groups, make noise, have bear spray ready, dont run or hike with earbuds in, keep pets leashed and be aware of your surroundings. ___ Associated Press writer Becky Bohrer in Juneau, Alaska, contributed. By MARK THIESSEN Associated Press Starmer says UK will recognize Palestinian state unless Israel agrees ceasefire, ends Gaza suffering View Photo LONDON (AP) The U.K. will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza, allows the U.N. to bring in aid and takes other steps toward long-term peace, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Tuesday. Starmer, who is under mounting domestic pressure over the issue as scenes of hunger in Gaza horrify many Britons, convened a rare summertime Cabinet meeting to discuss the situation there. It came after he discussed the crisis with President Donald Trump during a meeting in Scotland on Monday. Trump told reporters on Monday that he didnt mind Starmer taking a position on Palestinian statehood. On his flight back to the U.S. on Tuesday, Trump said the two never discussed the U.K. potentially recognizing a Palestinian state. We have no view on that, Trump said. Israel rejects the announcement Starmer said that Britain will recognize a state of Palestine before the United Nations General Assembly, unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire and commit to a long-term, sustainable peace, reviving the prospect of a two-state solution. And this includes allowing the U.N. to restart the supply of aid, and making clear there will be no annexations in the West Bank, he said. It seems highly unlikely that the government of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu could meet the conditions, which cut to the heart of the most intractable issues in the conflict. Netanyahu rejects the two-state solution on both nationalistic and security grounds. Israels foreign ministry said it rejected the British statement. The shift in the British governments position at this time, following the French move and internal political pressures, constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of hostages, the ministry said on X. Starmer also repeated U.K. demands that Hamas release all the hostages it holds, agree to a ceasefire, disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza. Starmer said in a televised statement that his government will assess in September how far the parties have met these steps before making a final decision on recognition. Britain has long supported the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, but has said recognition should come as part of a negotiated two-state solution to the conflict. But Starmer said Britain was willing to take the step because the very idea of a two-state solution is reducing and feels further away today than it has for many years. He said that despite the set of conditions he set out, Britain believes that statehood is the inalienable right of the Palestinian people. Growing pressure on Israel Pressure to formally recognize Palestinian statehood has mounted since French President Emmanuel Macron announced that his country will become the first major Western power to recognize a Palestinian state in September. As with France, British recognition would be largely symbolic, but its part of a broader European and global shift against Israel and could increase diplomatic pressure for an end to the conflict. More than 140 countries recognize a Palestinian state, including a dozen in Europe. Macrons announcement last week made France the first Group of Seven country and the largest in Europe to take that step. Europe has widely soured on Israel over Gaza. Countries including Ireland, Spain and the Netherlands have sought to aggressively pressure Israel to let in more aid and cease military operations. More than 250 of the 650 lawmakers in the House of Commons have signed a letter urging the British government to recognize a Palestinian state. Britain has a particular historic role as the former governing power of what was then Palestine and author of the 1917 Balfour Declaration, which backed the establishment of a Jewish homeland. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Britain bore a special burden of responsibility. Our support for Israel, its right to exist, and the security of its people, is steadfast, Lammy told a meeting at the U.N. in New York. However, the Balfour Declaration came with the solemn promise that nothing shall be done, nothing which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of the Palestinian people as well. And colleagues, this has not been upheld, and it is a historical injustice which continues to unfold. France welcomed Britains announcement. The United Kingdom is joining the momentum created by France for the recognition of the state of Palestine, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot posted on X. Omar Awadallah, assistant to the Palestinian Authoritys foreign minister, welcomed Starmers announcement and said the U.K. has a historic responsibility to recognize a Palestine state and would be correcting a historic injustice, if it follows through in September. The Palestinian Authority has limited autonomy in pockets of the occupied West Bank. ___ Associated Press writers Angela Charlton in Paris, Chris Megerian, Ibrahim Hazboun, and Farnoush Amiri and Edith Lederer at the U.N. contributed to this story. By JILL LAWLESS and DANICA KIRKA Associated Press The Latest: Gaza death toll passes 60,000 as Israel and Trump feel pressure over famine alert View Photo The Palestinian death toll in Gaza passed 60,000 on Tuesday. The worlds leading authority on food crises said the worst-case scenario of famine is currently playing out in the territory of over 2 million people as starvation deaths rise. And the United Nations said far too little food and other aid was entering the enclave, while most of Tuesdays dead were gunned down seeking aid. Pressure grew on Israels closest ally, the United States, to act as Americans support for Israeli military action declines sharply. And the British prime minister says the U.K. will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire. Heres the latest: Malta to recognize a Palestinian state, leader says Malta plans to recognize a Palestinian state in September, Prime Minister Robert Abela said in a social media post. Maltas decision was formally communicated to the United Nations during the U.N. conference under way in New York, Abela added. Our countrys position reflects our commitment to finding a solution in favor of lasting peace in the Middle East, wrote Abela, who had previously said he intended to be the Maltese leader to recognize a Palestinian state. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni has said Italy backs an eventual Palestinian state but that the time wasnt right to recognize it. Meloni has backed Israels right to defend itself while providing humanitarian aid to Gaza and airlifting out wounded Palestinians for treatment in Italy. The Holy See, for its part, recognized the Palestinian state officially in 2015 and has said such recognition was the best solution to ending the conflict. Trump says he thinks Europe will help with Gaza aid President Donald Trump says he thinks the European Union will put up more money to aid hungry Palestinians in Gaza. We want to take it one thing at a time. They need food, and they need people to be able to get them the food, he told reporters. The EU has been the worlds biggest supplier of aid to the Palestinians, when the aid is allowed to go through. Trump also talked about setting up food centers under Israeli control, saying that we think they can do a good job with it. They want to preside over the food centers to make sure the distribution is proper. It was not clear how that would differ from the Israeli-backed American contractor that opened aid distribution centers in Gaza in May. Chaos has surrounded that system meant as an alternative to the U.N.-backed one. Trump said he last spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu two days ago. UN conference supports two-state solution A U.N. high-level conference has given unwavering support to a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict and calls on Israel to commit to a Palestinian state. The non-binding declaration adopted at a conference at the U.N. General Assembly sets out a concrete time-bound action plan. Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes a two-state solution, and his government and close ally the United States boycotted the conference. The declarations plan envisions the Palestinian Authority governing and controlling all Palestinian territory, with a transitional administrative committee established under its umbrella after a ceasefire in Gaza. The plan also supports deployment of a temporary international stabilization mission operating under U.N. auspices to support the transfer of security to the Palestinian Authority. UK foreign secretary defends conditions on Palestinian statehood British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has defended the U.K.s decision on recognition of Palestinian statehood in September if Israel does not agree to a ceasefire and long-term peace process. Lammy told reporters at the United Nations that what we have attempted to do is affect the situation on the ground, and I sincerely hope that we see a dramatic improvement to the suffering that we see and a commitment to a ceasefire. The U.K. announcement came a day after President Donald Trump met with the British prime minister. Lammy was asked if Trump was given a heads-up. While the U.S. and U.K. have the most special relationship, Lammy responded, we have always been clear that no country has veto on solemn decisions that we make in the United Kingdom. Applause at UN conference for British statement Britains foreign secretary has been applauded at a U.N. conference after announcing that the U.K. will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza and takes steps to long-term peace. David Lammy spoke at a ministerial meeting on the two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. He was immediately interrupted with loud and sustained applause in the U.N. General Assembly hall. Lammy also said the rejection by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government of a two-state solution is wrong morally and its wrong strategically, stressing that it harms the Israeli people by closing off the only path to peace. France welcomes British announcement on Palestinian state France has welcomed British Prime Minister Keir Starmers announcement that the U.K will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza and takes steps to long-term peace. Last week, French President Emmanuel Macron made a surprise diplomatic gamble by announcing that France will recognize Palestine in September. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot posted on social media that Together, through this momentous decision and our joint efforts, we are ending the infinite cycle of violence and re-opening the prospect of peace in the region. Palestinians chase airdrops into the sea Scores of Palestinians in the Gaza town of Zawaida swam into the sea to retrieve what they could from airdrops of aid. Kamel Qoraan returned to shore with a soaked bag of tea powder, saying that airdropping aid is humiliating and calling for the opening of border crossings for trucks. The United Nations and partners say trucks deliver far more aid. Associated Press reporters in Gaza said much of the airdropped aid has fallen in so-called red zones that Israel has ordered people to evacuate from. Some people seemed relieved to get anything. One boy smiled as he clutched a small sack of flour. One man had a can of beans. Momen Abu Etayya said his son urged him to chase the airdrops, and dashed into the sea. I was only able to bring him three biscuits, he said. U.K. to recognize Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to ceasefire British Prime Minister Keir Starmer says the U.K. will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza and takes steps toward long-term peace. Starmer told ministers at a rare summertime Cabinet meeting that Britain will recognize a state of Palestine before the United Nations General Assembly, unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, reaches a ceasefire, makes clear there will be no annexation in the West Bank and commits to a long-term peace process that delivers a two state solution. EU humanitarian team not allowed into Gaza, official says A team from the European Unions humanitarian aid agency was not authorized by Israel to join a convoy heading into Gaza, according to a senior European Commission official. The official was not authorized to be publicly named according to EU policy. The EU didnt receive any convincing explanation from Israels military or foreign service, the official said. There was no immediate Israeli comment. The EU has sought to monitor delivery of food and fuel in Gaza under a new aid agreement with Israel. It says at least 160 trucks should enter Gaza daily along with 200,000 liters of fuel, and more border crossings should open. But the EU does not have adequate evidence Israel has fulfilled its end of the bargain, the official said. Sam McNeil in Brussels WFP says half of what it wants to get into Gaza is reaching The U.N. World Food Program says only about half of the aid it has requested to enter Gaza is reaching the territory after Israel eased restrictions on entry over the weekend. WFP wants 100 trucks per day entering the territory of over 2 million people as deaths from starvation increase. Ross Smith, the U.N. agencys director of emergencies, says they lack follow-through on the ground such as faster clearance and approval for aid trucks. He says that we need sustained effort at scale for weeks at a time. Draft says ministers to make unwavering commitment to two-state solution A draft document for a U.N. conference says foreign ministers will make an unwavering commitment to a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. The document obtained by The Associated Press would stress the importance of unifying the Gaza Strip with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority. It also will invite all countries that have not recognized the state of Palestine to do so, and urge countries who have not done so yet to establish normal relations with Israel. The draft was circulated for comment by conference co-chair France ahead of the conferences final day on Tuesday. Edith M. Lederer Top UN official says famine alert in Gaza is undeniable United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres says the new alert on Gaza from the worlds leading international authority on food crises confirms what we have feared: Gaza is on the brink of famine. The facts are in and they are undeniable, Guterres said in a statement. Palestinians in Gaza are enduring a humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions. This is not a warning. It is a reality unfolding before our eyes. He again called for the free and unimpeded flow of food, water, medicine and fuel into the strip, saying that the trickle of aid must become an ocean. Germany joins airdrop effort in Gaza German Chancellor Friedrich Merz says two of his countrys military aircraft are on their way to Jordan to join the airdrops of aid to Gaza. Merz said after meeting Jordans King Abdullah II on Tuesday that the two Airbus A400M planes can join airdrops by the weekend, possibly as early as Wednesday. Abdullah acknowledged that airdrops are a drop in the ocean, though it does send a signal and pressure on Israel that we are trying the best that we can. He insisted that truck traffic needs to be started as quickly as possible. France to join airdrops for Gaza A French diplomatic official says France will carry out airdrops of humanitarian aid to Gaza in the coming days. The official spoke on condition of anonymity in line with government policy. The official stressed that the airdrops are not intended to replace larger-scale relief efforts. France is also working to establish overland deliveries, which it described as by far the most effective solution for delivering massive, unimpeded humanitarian relief. Thomas Adamson in Paris The Associated Press Yves here. I am running this post in part as an appeal to readers for a fact check. This article makes clear that European states are considering triggering the JCPOAs so-called snapback provisions. Even though the US is not presently a member of the JCOPA, it can get one of its good stooges who are still party to the agreement and on the UN Security Council, like the UK, to initiate the snapback process. The effect would be that the former, even more stringent sanctions on Iran would go back into force and would be binding on all UN member without a new vote by all UN members. The snapback provisions expire on October 18. What I find confusing is that this post describes the snapback being bruited about as a live threat against Iran. However, Alastair Crooke, who is seen as very well informed about events in the region, said regularly last spring that there was a procedural drill involved, with Iran being allowed time to make what amounts to a rebuttal, that put the last date for triggering the JCPOA snapback well before October 18. Crooke had depicted the time needed to go though all the steps before the October 18 drop dead date meant the snapback procedure needed to be initiated by June. Hes said mid June as well as end of June, as you can see below. Crooke had further argued that the snapback timetable was a big, if not the reason, that Israel insisted that action had to be taken against Iran by the end of spring at the latest. Here is a representative discussion by Crooke. The key part begins at 7:00: One of them that came out of the blue is that the E3 that is the European states who are still members of the JCPOA, Germany France and the UK, have told Iran that they are going to trigger snapback by the end of June this year. And so I think this is an interesting, I mean clearly concerted, the Europeans doing the work. A US cannot do it because its no longer a member of the process. But the snapback system anyway expires in October. But for various reasons there are processes within it where it takes a little time to take effect because theres a reconciliation point where Iran can make their points and then it goes into effect a little after that. So there isnt that much time. Maybe this is why he [Trump] said it had to be done by spring, this was the deadline that everyone was talking about. . The best description of the snapback implementation process I have found on a quick search is not precise about timelines but does not mention Iran having a right to respond to the charges.1 Even though I trust Crooke all day more than I do Simon Watkins, Crooke has also been blaming the stripping out of a UN Security Council member being able to veto the implementation of the process on the US, when in fact that was Russias doing. But if Crookes general take on the process is correct, and key players though the snapback needed to be set in motion during June to beat the procedures expiration in October, even assuming generously that a couple of extra weeks were built into the June assumption, end of July would seem to be too late. And that would explain why Iran is so chill. The snapback threat would be empty, mere posturing for the Western press. Perhaps the US and its camp followers anticipate they can get enough Western states to implement the snapback in the absence of them being binding UN sanctions to still be able to tighten the economic screws on Iran further. By Simon Watkins, a former senior FX trader and salesman, financial journalist, and best-selling author. He was Head of Forex Institutional Sales and Trading for Credit Lyonnais, and later Director of Forex at Bank of Montreal. He was then Head of Weekly Publications and Chief Writer for Business Monitor International, Head of Fuel Oil Products for Platts, and Global Managing Editor of Research for Renaissance Capital in Moscow. Originally published at OilPrice Talks between Iran and the European Troika (France, Germany, UK) over the weekend, initiated under U.S. guidance, aimed to gauge Irans willingness to revive the JCPOA before an October 18 EU deadline for reimposing snapback sanctions. Europe is increasingly aligned with Washingtons harder stance, citing Irans expanding military ties with Russia and North Korea, including missile transfers and nuclear cooperation, and is now demanding Tehran limit missile range to 1,000 km. If Iran fails to comply, Europe will likely trigger snapback sanctions, potentially prompting Iran to exit the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. There was a time when Europe broadly was in favour not just of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA, colloquially the nuclear deal) but also of continuing with it even after the U.S.s unilateral withdrawal from the arrangement on 8 May 2018. This was based partly on long-running historical ties between France (one of the three key economic and political powerhouses of the continent, along with Germany and Great Britain) and the pre- and post-1979 Islamic Revolution regimes, and Germanys considerable commercial ties with Iran. Britain has occupied a neutral-at-best stance since it and the U.S. effected a change of regime in Iran in 1953 with the removal of the enormously popular Iranian Prime Minister, Mohammad Mossadegh (through Operation Boot as it was codenamed by Britains Secret Intelligence Service, or Operation Ajax by the U.S.s Central Intelligence Agency) and his replacement by General Fazlollah Zahedi, as detailed in full in my latest book on the new global oil market order. So, what has been happening in talks over the weekend orchestrated in large part by the U.S. between Iran and this European troika? It took some time for continental Europe which excludes Britain to appreciate the full gravitas of the security threat posed to it after Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February 2022. This comes not just from the obvious intention of Russian President Vladimir Putin to push further westwards into Europe if his military is victorious in Ukraine, but also from the increasingly unified bloc of enemies to it and its key economic and political allies around the world that also includes China, Iran, North Korea and their allies too. China continues to provide Irans chief source of financing keeping it afloat in the form of continued oil imports, North Korea has troops fighting on the ground in Ukraine for Russia, and Iran sustains a steady flow of drones, missiles, and other weaponry and support to this illegal Russian incursion. It could well be said that Europes limp response to Russias test-invasions of sovereign European territories Georgia in 2008 and Ukraine in 2014 (with the subsequent unopposed annexation of its Crimea region) gave Putin the confidence to go ahead with the full-scale version in 2022. The U.S. and Britain certainly thought this was the case, which is why both have pushed so strongly to end the culture of dependence in Europe on cheap and plentiful energy supplies from Russia that turned much of the continent into the Kremlins fat, pliant lapdog. In so doing, the U.S. and Britain have laid the foundation for a broad, deep and strong economic, political, and military alliance of democratic countries capable of facing down the threats posed by the enemies ranged against them. It is in this context, then, that these weekend talks between the European Troika were set in motion by the U.S. According to a senior security source in Washington spoken to exclusively at the end of last week by OilPrice.com, it was thought that a scouting mission to ascertain Irans genuine position towards negotiating a new version of the JCPOA was best carried out by Europe, following the U.S.s role in recent attacks against the Islamic Republic. It was also thought by Washington that the Iranians would be extremely keen to engage with Europe as it is getting very close to a critical deadline for Tehran and Europe. This is the European Unions (E.U.) 18 October deadline to impose snapback sanctions on Iran. These comprise a comprehensive range of UN Security Council sanctions that were lifted from the Iranian economy when the original JCPOA was signed in 2015. These would include multiple new financial sanctions on companies and individuals and increased surveillance by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). The FATF has 40 active criteria and mechanisms in place to prevent money laundering an activity that is vital to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) activities across the world. It also has nine criteria and mechanisms in place to do the same for the financing of terrorism and related activities again, a core of the IRGCs role in promoting Irans brand of Islam around the globe. The FATF also has swingeing powers to wield against individuals, companies, or countries who transgress any of its standards and is extremely aggressive in using them by degrees, depending on whether the sanctioned entity is on its grey or black list. After the 18 October deadline if snapback sanctions are not reimposed all UN sanctions on Iran will be lifted. Given this, Washington reasons that Iran would go to considerable lengths to avoid having these snapback sanctions reimposed by Europe, so would consider making some significant concessions to avoid this happening, and this can be seen as a gauge of how much the U.S. could benefit from full discussions on the JCPOA in the near future. In this context, it is apposite to note that Washington has the same short-term and long-term objectives in any such new negotiations as it did before the recent Israeli/U.S. attacks on Iran, and it is also crucial to note that none of these objectives are negotiable in any future discussions, the Washington source underlined to OilPrice.com. The short-term objective is for Iran to have not one scrap of enriched material that could be used to make a nuclear weapon, both now and at any point in the future. This brings into play the adjunct element of this objective, which is having independent inspectors able at any time to fully inspect any facility anywhere in Iran that it wants from top to bottom for as long as it takes. The long-term objective is to remove the powers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) through the FATF and other mechanisms related to destroying its financial base and then if necessary, removing the Supreme Leader from power. This option may well be required, given that at the centre of the guiding principles for all top-level Iranian politics is the concept of Velayat-e-Faqih, which means that all serious political and religious authority is entrusted to the Shia clergy, and their ultimate authority, the Supreme Leader. Popular support in Iran for the return of the U.S.-based exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi the eldest son of Farah Diba and Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran has been steadily growing for weeks, according to a senior source who works closely with Irans Petroleum Ministry, exclusively spoken to by OilPrice.com over the weekend. From Europes perspective, the mood before and after the end of the weekends talks remains unequivocally in favour of imposing the full set of snapback sanctions on Iran, according to a very senior E.U. security source exclusively spoken to by OilPrice.com a few days ago. More information keeps coming in about the increased number of Russian nuclear scientists sent to Iran between June 2024 and February 2025 and the three top missile experts from Pyongyang who have been in Iran for 140 days or so, he said. Verified reports show that Iran is becoming ever more active in the Russia-Belarus campaign of eroding NATOs eastern flank defences particularly along the vulnerable northern and southern border defences that are most vulnerable, he added. In the last delivery of mid- and long-range missiles from Tehran to Moscow, the IRGC included as they had promised in February in a visit to Moscow Etemad [a late generation ballistic missile], and Fath 360 [a multi-lunch ballistic missile launching system], with most of the latter to be positioned by Moscow near the Belarus border with Poland, he underlined. Even more recent intelligence received from Iran of its newest missile capabilities confirm successful testing of the new generation of solid fuel missiles with a range of 4,200 kilometres carrying a payload of 700 kilogrammes and this range could be enhanced to 4,700 kilometres if the payload is reduced to 450 kilogrammes effectively allowing Iran to target most of the major cities in Europe, he told OilPrice.com. So, the [European] Troika has now included a new condition for any further JCPOA discussions that requires Tehran to restrict its missile range to 1,000 kilometres and Tehran made it clear that it will not accept this, he highlighted. The U.S. has already been fully briefed by the European Troika on the results of the weekend talks with Iran, which it saw as Tehrans last chance for a long-term diplomatic solution to the long-running problem between Iran and the West over its nuclear intentions. The view in Washington is that if Iran does not show considerable willingness to make concessions then the course of events would be snapback sanctions reimposed by Europe, which may then lead to Iran withdrawing from the NPT [Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty] and then a significant escalation of preventative measures [against Irans nuclear ambitions] by the U.S. and its allies, the E.U. source concluded. ______ 1 From IranWire: Candidates for Tennessees 7th Congressional District are hitting the campaign trail ahead of the recently announced Oct. 7 primary and Dec. 2 general election to fill the seat left empty by former U.S. Rep. Mark Green, a Republican. The district includes a portion of Davidson County as well as rural areas west of Nashville, stretching from Clarksville to the states border with Alabama. It was one of three congressional seats redrawn by Tennessees Republican supermajority following the 2020 Census. Last year, Green defeated Democrat and former Nashville Mayor Megan Barry by roughly 70,000 votes to keep his seat. Mark Green Officially Resigns From Congress Tennessees 7th Congressional District representative to start company 'to help America compete against the Chinese Communist Party' On July 24, Democrats gathered at Nashvilles UAW Local 737 Union Hall for a Take Back TN 07 rally, which drew around 100 people. Nashvilles state Reps. Aftyn Behn, Bo Mitchell and Vincent Dixie all of whom are running for the Democratic Partys nomination in the 7th attended the event, along with political strategist and fellow candidate Darden Copeland. All four also pitched their platforms at the Democratic Partys July 12 Three Star Dinner at the Music City Center. Were here tonight because weve got something that seems kind of rare in politics these days, right? Tennessee Democratic Party Chair Rachel Campbell told the crowd at the July 24 event. An opportunity, an open seat, a tight congressional margin and a fired-up Democratic base that knows that this moment belongs to us. Were going to build the kind of campaign that can win and can inspire, because this is not just about flipping that seat, she continued. This is about flipping that script. This is about reclaiming our power for too long. Folks in Tennessee and in District 7 have been sold a line of bullshit that rural Tennessee cant care about clean air or good schools, that you cant be pro-labor and pro-growth, that if you if your kid wants to go to college and be debt-free and your hospital stay open, then youre just asking for too much. But I reject that. I know that you all reject that, because were Democrats. Democrats focused many of their remarks on economics and connecting with the working class, with an emphasis on the cost of food, housing and health care, and the support of marginalized communities. At the event, Behn, who currently represents state House District 51, addressed criticism over the fact that she does not currently live in the 7th Congressional District. In the most MAGA-gerrymandered congressional district in the country, I live walking distance from the line, Behn told the Scene. Ive got 12,000 constituents in CD7 who asked me to run in this race, and Ive no problem moving if I do win, so I dont look at it as a concern at all. I think this moment requires people like me who offer fearless leadership and meet the moment. Not many people are talking about this race, but come December, this is going to be the center of the political universe right here west of Nashville, Tennessee GOP Chair Scott Golden told a crowd of roughly 100 Republican voters at a forum hosted by the Humphreys County Republicans on July 26. Were going to have a great nominee, he said. Were going to get this done. This is going to be the most important race of 2025 all due respect to New Jersey and Virginia. The action is going to be right here, and its starting tonight in Waverly, Tennessee. Candidates Line Up for Special Election Sprint in Tennessees 7th At least five state representatives will vie for U.S. congressional seat left open by Mark Green That forum was attended by several candidates: state Rep. Jody Barrett (R-Dickson); former state Commissioner Matt Van Epps, who was recently endorsed by Green; Montgomery County Commissioner Jason Knight; veteran John Wilt; and now-pardoned Jan. 6 insurrectionist Stewart Parks. Also in attendance was state Rep. Gino Bulso (R-Brentwood), who has entered the race after weeks of speculation. A handful of other declared candidates state Rep. Lee Reeves (R-Franklin), veteran Jon Thorp, businessman Stuart Cooper and newcomer Mason Foley were not present. Republicans focused on their support of and advancement of President Donald Trumps America First agenda especially in regard to immigration enforcement, limiting government assistance for immigrants, and proposals like bans on stock trading by elected officials, term limits and the use of auto pens. Van Epps earned the top spot in a straw poll by voters in attendance, with Bulso coming in second and Parks third. Chinese hackers exploit Microsoft flaw to breach U.S. government agencies and global entities Chinese state-affiliated hackers exploited a critical Microsoft SharePoint vulnerability (CVE-2024-6101), stealing cryptographic keys to impersonate legitimate users and infiltrate U.S. government agencies, including the National Nuclear Security Administration, as well as 400+ global organizations. The breach affected the Department of Energy, Department of Education, state agencies and organizations worldwide, including energy firms, universities and consulting companies across Europe, the Middle East and the Americas. Despite Microsoft's July security patches, hackers bypassed fixes, maintaining persistence in compromised systems by stealing authentication keys. Around 100 servers in 60 organizations remained vulnerable post-patch. Microsoft attributed the attacks to Chinese-linked groups (Linen Typhoon, Storm-2603) and urged organizations to adopt cloud-based defenses and layered security. The U.S. government criticized Microsoft's security culture, prompting internal reforms and hires of ex-government cybersecurity experts. The incident reflects state-sponsored cyber espionage for political and economic gain. China denied involvement, calling accusations "unfounded." Experts stress the need for enhanced global cybersecurity amid rising sophisticated threats. In a significant escalation of cyber warfare, Chinese state-affiliated hackers have exploited a critical vulnerability in Microsoft's SharePoint software to infiltrate several high-profile United States government agencies, including the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), which oversees America's nuclear weapons. The breach, which began on July 18, has also affected over 400 organizations worldwide, spanning Europe, the Middle East and other regions. Exploiting a critical vulnerability The cyberattack took advantage of a zero-day flaw in Microsoft SharePoint, allowing the hackers to gain unauthorized access and steal cryptographic keys. These keys could potentially enable the attackers to impersonate legitimate users or services within the compromised systems. Microsoft has attributed the attacks to groups known as Linen Typhoon, Violet Typhoon and Storm-2603, all believed to have ties to the Chinese government. TrustedSec Security Intelligence Director Carlos Perez described the exploited vulnerability as "critical" and "already being actively exploited at scale." He emphasized that the flaw allows attackers to execute remote code on SharePoint servers, posing a severe threat to enterprise-level infrastructure. Impact on U.S. government agencies The U.S. Department of Energy, which includes the NNSA, confirmed that it experienced a disruption but stated that the impact was minimal due to its robust cybersecurity measures. "The department was minimally impacted due to its widespread use of the Microsoft M365 cloud and very capable cybersecurity systems," a spokesman said. "A very small number of systems were impacted, and all are being restored." The breach also affected the U.S. Department of Education, the Florida Department of Revenue and the Rhode Island General Assembly. Global reach and ongoing threat The attacks did not stop at government agencies. Cybersecurity firm Eye Security revealed that the breach compromised around 400 entities globally, highlighting the widespread nature of the attack. Energy firms, consulting companies and universities were also targeted, with breaches detected on over 100 servers across 60 different organizations. Cybersecurity researchers have identified victims in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, the European Union and the Americas. Despite Microsoft releasing security patches in July, attackers have found ways to circumvent them. Eye Security's Chief Hacker and Co-owner, Vaisha Bernard, explained that the vulnerabilities allowed attackers to steal authentication keys and remain inside systems even after updates and reboots. "There were ways around the patches," Bernard said, emphasizing the persistent threat posed by these attacks. Broader implications and Microsoft's response The breaches have raised concerns about the security of Microsoft's software and its ability to protect sensitive information. The U.S. government has criticized Microsoft's security culture, calling for urgent reforms. In response, Microsoft has been holding weekly meetings with top executives and hiring security experts, including former government officials, to bolster its defenses. (Related: US and allies condemn China for massive cyberattack against Microsoft email servers.) Microsoft continues to urge organizations to apply all security updates, move to cloud-based systems and implement multiple layers of security to detect and prevent suspicious activity. The company has released "new comprehensive security updates" and stressed the importance of immediate action to prevent further exploitation. International response and denials The Chinese Embassy in Washington has rejected the claims, stating, "China firmly opposes all forms of cyberattacks and cybercrime." The embassy emphasized the need for evidence-based conclusions rather than "unfounded speculation and accusations." Cybersecurity experts believe these attacks are part of a larger strategy to use business software hacks for political or economic gain. As the investigation continues, the full extent of the breach and its consequences are yet to be fully revealed. This incident underscores the growing sophistication and global scale of cyber threats, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and international cooperation to combat state-sponsored cyber espionage. Follow CommunistChina.news for more news about Chinese hackers. Watch the video below about hackers allegedly linked to the Chinese government who gained unauthorized access to several files on U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen's computer. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Chinese hackers are deep inside America's networks: A national security warning that won't fade. Cybersecurity official warns: Americans must prepare for CYBERATTACKS from Chinese hackers. U.S. experts sound the alarm: China's cyber espionage threat grows as Salt Typhoon breaches U.S. telecom giants. Chinese hackers target U.S. defense, national security networks ahead of Election Day. Sources include: TheNationalPulse.com TheIndependent.co.UK InterestingEngineering.com Brighteon.com The erosion of Zelenskys wartime leadership: EU aid to Ukraine cut amid corruption concerns The European Union has suspended 1.5 billion ($1.7 billion) in financial aid to Ukraine due to concerns over corruption and governance, particularly after President Zelensky weakened the country's anti-corruption agency. James Wasserstrom, an American anticorruption expert, noted a decline in international confidence in Zelensky's leadership, with growing exasperation among donor countries. Over 2,000 protesters gathered in Kyiv to oppose Zelensky's decision to weaken anti-corruption measures, while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed concerns over Zelensky's moves regarding corruption investigations. The EU's decision to withhold aid is a significant blow to Zelensky, who has relied on European support amid the Trump administration's reluctance to fund Ukraine's war effort, raising questions about the future of Western backing. The EU's move underscores the importance of adhering to democratic principles and good governance, with the international community closely monitoring Zelensky's actions to ensure necessary reforms are implemented. The European Union's decision to suspend a significant portion of financial aid to Ukraine marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing saga of President Volodymyr Zelensky's leadership, highlighting growing concerns over corruption and governance. In a rare admission of frustration, James Wasserstrom, an American anticorruption expert, told the New York Times that "the luster is definitely coming off" Zelensky's wartime leadership among governments providing financial assistance. "There is exasperation at Zelensky in the donor community," he added. This sentiment was underscored last week when more than 2,000 protesters gathered in Kyiv, the largest demonstration against the Ukrainian government since Russia's invasion more than three years ago. The protesters, shouting "shame" and "veto the law," were reacting to Zelensky's decision to sign a law that significantly weakened the country's anti-corruption agency. The European Union's response was swift. On Friday, July 25, the bloc announced it would suspend part of a 4.5 billion ($5.2 billion) fund tied to good governance standards, freezing 1.5 billion ($1.7 billion) in financial aid to Ukraine. The decision, while not yet final, was a clear rebuke to Zelensky's government, which has been accused of backsliding on corruption reforms. The EU's Ukraine Facility, established last year, promised 50 billion euros over three years for war damage repair and preparations for EU accession. However, Ukraine's failure to meet key benchmarks, including the appointment of judges to the High Anti-Corruption Court, has raised red flags. Guillaume Mercier, a European Commission spokesman, told journalists in Brussels that Ukraine had requested a disbursement in June despite falling short on three of 16 benchmarks. "The court tries cases brought by the two agencies whose independence Mr. Zelensky threatened this week," Mercier noted. This court is crucial for combating elite corruption, a persistent issue that has plagued Ukraine for years. Domestic backlash and international concerns The protests in Kyiv were not the only sign of discontent. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reportedly called Zelensky's office to discuss his latest moves regarding corruption investigations. The move by Zelensky to undermine the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) has been particularly contentious. Critics argue that these actions, coupled with other martial law policies, such as the silencing of journalists and civil society activists, the suppression of the Russian language and the persecution of the Orthodox Church, amount to a power grab. The New York Times reported that the NABU and SAPO had been investigating top ministers in the Zelensky government, including a former deputy prime minister, Oleksiy Chernyshov, who was charged with corruption on June 23. Chernyshov has dismissed the accusations as a "baseless smear campaign." The president's decision to weaken these agencies, even if later reversed, has fueled accusations of cronyism and has jeopardized support from both domestic civil society groups and Western nations funding the war effort. (Related: Zelensky dismantles independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies, sparking outrage and EU membership concerns.) The EU's decision to withhold aid is a significant blow to Zelensky, who has relied heavily on European financial support to offset the Trump administration's refusal to underwrite Ukraine's war effort. The move also raises questions about the future of Western support for Ukraine, as Zelensky's wartime star power appears to be fading. As Zelensky navigates these challenges, the stakes could not be higher. The EU's decision to suspend aid is a stark reminder of the importance of good governance and the need for Ukraine to adhere to democratic principles, even in the midst of war. The international community will be watching closely to see if Zelensky can regain the trust of his allies and implement the necessary reforms to secure the future of his country. Find more related stories at BigGovernment.news. Watch the video below that talks about Zelensky getting another mass protest. This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Zelensky demands $40 BILLION annually to sustain Ukraine's war against Russia. Military analyst: Zelensky established drone unit in Ukrainian Armed Forces to SWINDLE MORE MONEY. Zelensky extends martial law again, delaying elections amid legitimacy concerns. Sources include: ZeroHedge.com NYTimes.com WSJ.com Brighteon.com The never-ending ISRAEL-PALESTINE war that murders innocents, children and starving refugees is a moral dilemma of staggering magnitude What to do? Palestinian terrorists hide in schools, hospitals and refugee camps and shoot missiles at Israel, then Israel retaliates, and innocents die, thanks to return fire to GPS coordinates that launched those Palestinian missiles in the first place. This has been going on for decades, and the mass media loves it, exploiting the violence for media coverage and ratings, plus political incentives. A bunch of warmongers who dont care about human life and morals at all. The ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza is being described by some as the greatest moral failure of the world community of nations in modern history. Since October 7, 2023, the conflict has escalated into what is now widely termed a genocide or holocaust of the Palestinian people marked by mass starvation, systematic targeting of civilians, and the failure of international powers to intervene in any meaningful way. Mass Starvation Crisis in Gaza Intensifies : Medical professionals and aid organizations report widespread famine in Gaza, with over 100 confirmed malnutrition deaths since October 2023 and civilians too terrified to access aid due to sniper threats near distribution points. : Medical professionals and aid organizations report widespread famine in Gaza, with over 100 confirmed malnutrition deaths since October 2023 and civilians too terrified to access aid due to sniper threats near distribution points. Global Inaction Sparks Moral Outrage : The article condemns the global communityincluding the UN, major NGOs, Muslim and Arab nations, and world powers like Russia and Chinafor failing to intervene meaningfully in what is described as a deliberate campaign of extermination against Palestinians. : The article condemns the global communityincluding the UN, major NGOs, Muslim and Arab nations, and world powers like Russia and Chinafor failing to intervene meaningfully in what is described as a deliberate campaign of extermination against Palestinians. Media and Aid Workers Also at Risk : International news agencies report that journalists and humanitarian workers in Gaza face the same starvation and danger as civilians, highlighting the total collapse of humanitarian protections. : International news agencies report that journalists and humanitarian workers in Gaza face the same starvation and danger as civilians, highlighting the total collapse of humanitarian protections. Claims of Coordinated Genocide and Silence: The report alleges that the Gaza crisis is a long-orchestrated operation by Israel, backed by silence from global elites compromised by power, wealth, or blackmaillabeling the world's failure to stop it as "the greatest moral failure of the world community of nationsever." The greatest moral failure of the world community on record According to firsthand reports from Gaza and international watchdogs, the situation has become dire. A doctor in the region confirmed that the people are no longer close to famine but are living it, underscoring the desperation among civilians, particularly children, the elderly, and the infirm. The United Nations describes the aid entering Gaza as merely a trickle, and multiple humanitarian organizations are sounding the alarm on a hunger crisis unprecedented in modern history. More than 100 global NGOs have publicly warned of mass starvation, placing the blame squarely on what they refer to as Israels imposed siege on Gaza. The Gaza Health Ministry, under Hamas control, reported over 113 malnutrition-related deaths as of mid-July 2025. Aid workers and journalists inside Gaza are themselves becoming victims of starvation, highlighting the collapse of both humanitarian and press protections. One particularly disturbing development is the reported use of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) snipers to deter civilians from reaching the limited number of aid distribution points suggesting a deliberate effort to obstruct humanitarian relief and further tighten the blockade. Critics accuse the international community of complicity through inaction. Questions are being raised with increasing urgency: Where are the major global players? The United Nations? The Vatican? The BRICS nations? The European Union? The African Union? Apart from isolated voices such as South Africa and Iran, most states have either remained silent or offered only token responses. SOTN (State of the Nation) claims it was the first alternative media outlet to label the situation as both the Gaza Genocide and the Palestinian Holocaust, and it attributes the conflicts escalation to an alleged false flag operation on October 7, 2023 staged by Israeli intelligence (MOSSAD) and the IDF to justify an all-out war aimed at the full annexation of Gaza and eventual ethnic cleansing of Palestinians. The article lambasts powerful countries like the U.S., European nations, and wealthy Middle Eastern states such as Saudi Arabia for turning a blind eye, and it reserves harsh criticism for religious leaders, particularly the Vatican, for failing to take decisive action. The piece also alleges widespread global corruption and blackmail citing Jeffrey Epsteins alleged ties to MOSSAD as a reason for the international silence. Despite the visibility of the conflict streamed and broadcast around the world in real-time there has been little coordinated global action. For the author, this silent complicity marks a catastrophic moral collapse, one unmatched in scale and visibility. Gaza, they argue, is not just a humanitarian disaster it is a historic indictment of global indifference. Tune your internet dial to Evil.news for updates on extreme liberals with hidden agendas trying to turn everybody into devil-worshipping perverts and freaks with no morals whatsoever, including the kids and teens (even their own). Sources for this article include: DailyCaller.com USA.visa.com NaturalNews.com StateoftheNation.info Israels unrelenting push: The annexation of Palestinian territories and regional repercussions Following the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, Israel's far-right government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has intensified military campaigns and passed resolutions that critics warn could lead to the erasure of Palestine. The Knesset's resolutions in July 2024 and 2025, opposing a Palestinian state and supporting the annexation of the West Bank, mark a significant shift towards de facto annexation of occupied territories. The situation in Gaza has deteriorated to catastrophic levels, with tens of thousands killed and infrastructure destroyed. Despite international condemnation and calls for a ceasefire, Israel's military campaign continues, exacerbated by a blockade on humanitarian aid, leading to accusations of ethnic cleansing by human rights organizations. Israel's actions extend beyond Palestine, aiming to weaken Iran's regional influence. This includes military operations in Lebanon, Yemen and Syria, targeting Hezbollah, the Houthis and supporting separatist movements. The culmination of these efforts was the "12-Day War" with Iran in spring 2025, which drew the U.S. into direct military confrontation with Tehran. Israel's strategy of military force, diplomatic pressure, lobbying and propaganda aims at full occupation of Palestinian territories and consolidation of control. However, this approach is fraught with uncertainty due to lack of consensus among Western capitals and growing resentment among Arab states. In the aftermath of the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, Israel's far-right government, led by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has embarked on a path that experts warn could lead to the complete erasure of Palestine from the map. This shift, marked by a series of resolutions and military campaigns, has raised alarms both regionally and internationally, as Israel's actions increasingly resemble a strategy of ethnic cleansing. The Knesset's resolution on July 18, 2024, marked a significant turning point. By a majority vote, the Israeli parliament declared its opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state, framing it as an existential threat to Israel. The resolution argued that a Palestinian state would be a "reward for terrorism" and would "destabilize the region," effectively shutting the door on any prospects for a two-state solution. Murad Sadygzade, President of the Middle East Studies Center and Visiting Lecturer at HSE University in Moscow, noted in his article for RT International, "The Knesset's resolution is not binding, but it is telling. It reflects the rigid ideological stance of the current political leadership and sets the stage for further escalation." Just over a year later, on July 23, the Knesset passed an even more radical resolution, explicitly proclaiming the intention to extend Israeli sovereignty over the entire West Bank. This move, supported by 71 lawmakers with 13 opposed, signaled a decisive shift toward the de facto annexation of occupied territories. Unprecedented crisis in Gaza and Israel's broader strategic offensive against Iran The situation in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels, with tens of thousands killed and infrastructure reduced to rubble. Despite international condemnation and calls for a ceasefire, the Israeli military campaign continues unabated. The blockade on humanitarian aid has exacerbated the suffering, leading to accusations of ethnic cleansing by human rights organizations. The international community, including the United Nations and leading humanitarian groups, has voiced strong condemnation. However, these calls have fallen on deaf ears, as Israel presses forward with its offensive. The conflict, once contained, is now spiraling into a crisis of unprecedented scale and brutality. (Related: Israeli minister sparks outrage with call to erase Gaza and resettle Jews.) Israel's strategic objectives extend beyond the Palestinian territories. The country has adopted a comprehensive strategy to weaken Iran's regional influence, employing both military and diplomatic tools. In Lebanon, Israel achieved a significant victory with the elimination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in September 2024. This operation, carried out by a drone, dealt a severe blow to the movement's morale and organizational structure. In Yemen, Israel has conducted systematic strikes against the Houthis, targeting logistical routes and ballistic missile depots. These actions are coordinated with U.S. and U.K.-led coalition forces to secure maritime navigation and limit Iran's ability to project power through its proxies. Syria remains another focal point, with Israel continuing its airstrikes on weapons depots and military units. Additionally, Israel is quietly supporting separatist movements within Syria, particularly among Druze and Kurdish groups, aiming to erode Syrian sovereignty and weaken Iran and Turkey's footholds in the region. The culmination of this escalation was the "12-Day War" with Iran in the spring of 2025. Despite internal disagreements within the U.S. administration, Washington conducted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, effectively dragging the U.S. into direct military confrontation with Tehran. Israeli authorities are systematically pursuing the final elimination of the Palestinian issue while simultaneously seeking to weaken regional competitors. Their strategy, marked by military force, diplomatic pressure, lobbying and propaganda, aims at the full occupation of Palestinian territories and consolidation of control over the West Bank and Gaza. However, this strategy is fraught with uncertainty. The lack of consensus among Western capitals, particularly Washington, and the growing resentment among Arab states, intensify regional tensions. Watch the video below that talks about Israel still blocking all aids to enter Gaza. This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Holocaust scholar Omer Bartov: Israel is committing GENOCIDE in Gaza. UN accuses Israel of starving Gaza civilians as hunger deaths mount. Global divide over Gaza escalates as U.S., BRICS clash on Israel's plans. Sources include: RT.com T.me Brighteon.com British meteorology under fire: Met Offices junk climate stations spark crisis of trust 81.5 percent of U.K. Met Office stations opened in the last decade meet "junk" Class 4 or 5 standards, with potential temperature errors of 2-5 C. New sites like Wales Whitesands exhibit poor siting, including placement near roads, sand dunes and infrastructure that distort readings. Critics argue biased data fuels exaggerated claims to prop up Net Zero policies. Met Office relies on unrealistic RCP8.5 climate models to project extreme warming scenarios. Public integrity at risk as mainstream media ignores controversies while social media skeptics gain traction. The U.K. Met Office, the nations premier weather forecasting institution, now faces intensifying scrutiny over its method of selecting locations for temperature measurement stations. A damning review by independent researchers reveals that over eight in 10 new stations installed since 2014 fall into the WMOs junk Class 4 or 5 categories, introducing potential errors of 2-5 C into climate data critical to Net Zero policies. This crisis of confidence centers on contradictions between official claims of record-breaking heat and evidence that stations like Whitesands in Wales sited near roads, sandy soils and heat-trapping structures are engineered to produce artificially inflated readings. Experts like citizen sleuth Ray Sanders and science writer Matt Ridley argue the Met Offices practices risk politicizing science to sustain alarmism, while the bureaus continued use of scientifically discredited climate models like RCP8.5 deepens distrust. The siting scandal: Junk stations and the heat of controversy Over the past decade, the Met Office has prioritized speed over rigor in expanding its climate monitoring network, with 81.5 percent of new stations rated poorly for accuracy. Since 2023, eight of 13 newly opened sites such as Whitesands and Neatishead fail WMO standards designed to ensure representative temperature data. Ray Sanders, who audits all 380 Met sites, observed: The Whitesands screen is located in a camping area on sand dunes, surrounded by a hedge that traps heat. With a nearby road and no shielding from urban encroachment, this site guarantees artificially elevated temperatures. The stations manual logs further complicate reliability, with missing entries for nearly half its first year of operation. Similar anomalies plague airports like Dyce in Aberdeen, where Stevenson screens sit mere feet from aircraft engines. Agricultural polytunnels, solar farms and sub-station proximity further distort data, yet the Met Office defends these locations as valid. Classifying chaos: How standards became slipping sands WMO classifications categorize stations by their environmental accuracy. Class 1-2 sites (93 percent of WMO networks) avoid artificial heat sources, while Class 4-5 sites allow 2-5 C errors equivalent to the difference between a mild autumn day and a summer peak. YET: Class 1-2: A mere 52 of 384 stations (13.7 percent). Class 4-5: 298 stations (77.9 percent), with 48 percent in Class 5 the worst category, akin to placing sensors near blast furnaces. The Met Offices 2013 draft Best Practice guidelines mandated Class 1-2 for new sites, but compliance collapsed since 2018. As noted by ISO standards, Class 5 stations lack siting requirements to ensure representative data, yet the Mets 2024 FOI response labeled criticism as vexatious. Historical context and the Net Zero dilemma The pressure to justify costly climate policies fuels the controversy. When Met Office projections for 2009s hottest year contrasted with personal cold experiences, public skepticism surged. Today, the stakes are higher: Net Zero targets rely on perceived urgency. Critics like Sanders argue: The Met is weaponizing flawed data to push a narrative that requires constant rising temperatures to justify taxes, bans and debt. Matt Ridleys Telegraph critique underscores the bureaus reliance on RCP8.5, a UN SSP8.5 scenario painted as business-as-usual but rejected even by IPCC. This model assumes 10x more coal use by 2100, enabling 6 C worst-case U.K. heat claims. They choose dystopia because its the only way to keep their funding and relevance, Ridley wrote, calling for truth, not theatrics. A call for transparency: Science or spin? The Met Offices silence compounds distrust. As legacy media exclusivity for alarmist headlines grows, FOI rejections and declining senior scientist activity fuel conspiracy theories. Meanwhile, global records like the 2025 St Jamess Park 34.7 C draw suspicion: located near tarmac and in a 4.5 C urban heat island, such sites inflate averages artificially. Sanders urges independent audits: Prove these sites arent designed to corrupt historical records. The public deserves proof instead, they get evasion. The temperature of trust As debates rage over climate policy, the Met Offices credibility hangs in the balance. By compromising data accuracy and clinging to hyperbolic models, it risks abandoning its meteorological mission for climate activism. With solar minimums reached, temperatures stable for two decades and global budgets strained, the pressure to hype warming intensifies. A return to transparent science one that distinguishes weather trends from policy agendas is not just good journalism, but a lifeline for democratic decision-making. Sources for this article include: WattsUpWithThat.com DailySceptic.org TheTelegraph.com Fluoride Idiocracy: Liberal parents panic-buy fluoride pills after government warns its damaging kids brains In a scene so perfectly absurd it couldve been lifted straight from Idiocracy, the government issued a dire warning: fluoride in drinking water is turning childrens minds into mush. But rather than recoil in horror, concerned liberal parents did what any rational, well-informed citizen would do they rushed to stockpile fluoride tablets to dump straight into their babies drinking water. Yes, you read that correctly. After authorities explicitly stated that fluoride may, in fact, be bad for developing brains, the public response wasnt outrage, skepticism, or even a demand for better science it was pure, unadulterated chaos, as liberal parents decided the best course of action was to double down and force-feed their kids the very same chemical just in pill form. For example, Utahs fluoridation ban triggered a 30 percent spike in fluoride prescriptions as parents scrambled for alternatives, per Epic Research. For decades, fluoride was heralded as a miracle additive a cavity-fighting hero in our tap water, toothpaste, and even baby formula. But now, a growing body of scientific evidence is turning the tide, revealing disturbing links between fluoride and developmental harm, particularly in children. With states like Utah and Florida banning water fluoridation, and federal agencies like the FDA moving to restrict infant fluoride supplements, the question isnt just whether fluoride is safebut why it took so long to sound the alarm. Key points: The FDA is pushing to ban concentrated fluoride supplements for infants and toddlers, citing risks to gut microbiome health and potential IQ reductions. A 2024 National Toxicology Program report found that fluoride exposure above CDC guidelines correlates with lower cognitive scores in children across multiple countries. Utah became the first state to outlaw water fluoridation entirely, while Florida reevaluates its policies amid mounting health concerns. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. applauded the FDAs action, calling fluoride industrial waste and emphasizing safer alternatives like dental hygiene and reduced sugar intake. Fluoridation amounts to forced mass medication, as even the CDC admits its benefits are primarily topicalnot systemic. More liberal parents are trying to put fluoride pills in their baby's drinking water because they ignore toxicology reports and still believe the "experts." The science of skepticism For years, fluorides critics were dismissed as conspiracy theorists. But today, peer-reviewed research is validating their concerns. A landmark meta-analysis of 74 studies, published in JAMA Pediatrics, found that higher fluoride exposure whether through water or urine samples was consistently tied to lower IQ scores in children. The effect held even at levels below the CDCs recommended threshold (0.7 mg/L), suggesting no safe exposure for developing brains. The association isnt just statistically significant its clinically significant, explains Dr. Linda Birnbaum, former director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. A drop of several IQ points might seem minor, but on a population level, it could shift entire societies. From public health win to chemical surrendered Fluoridation began in 1945 as a bold experiment to curb tooth decay. By the 1960s, it was cemented as orthodoxy, endorsed by dental associations and governments worldwide. But science evolves and so does our understanding of toxins. Studies now link fluoride to thyroid dysfunction, weight gain, and microbiome disruption. The gut-brain connection is especially alarming: fluorides antibacterial properties, which make it effective on teeth, may also decimate beneficial gut bacteria crucial for immunity and neurological health. Its like using a flamethrower to light a candle, says Dr. Marty Makary, FDA Commissioner. Alternatives to fluoride do exist However, alternatives for dental health exist, and there's a growing body of research suggesting there are better ways to topically prevent dental caries. For example, 3,3?-Diindolylmethane (DIM) could potentially serve as a replacement for fluoride in oral care due to its demonstrated anti-biofilm, anti-cariogenic (cavity-preventing), and immune-boosting properties. Heres how: DIM disrupts biofilms (like those of Streptococcus mutans) by up to 92%, preventing bacteria from adhering to teeth and forming plaque. It reduces EPS (extracellular polymeric substances), the sticky matrix that holds biofilms together, making them easier to remove mechanically (e.g., via brushing). Unlike fluoride, which is bacteriostatic, DIM directly weakens bacterial virulence, reducing their ability to thrive in acidic conditions (a key factor in cavities). This makes DIM a more proactive agent against dental caries by attacking the root cause (biofilm formation) rather than just mitigating damage. The U.S. faces a reckoning on fluoride: No longer should we mass medicate the public without consent. No longer should we make fluoride tablets available over-the-counter to parents who are knowingly poisoning their babies out of fear. It's time to invest in alternatives to fluoride and stop the mass poisoning of children's brains. Sources include: Substack.com NBCNews.com HHS.gov JAMANetwork.com Pubmed.gov Trump admin rescues 13,000 of almost 450,000 unaccompanied children who crossed the border during Bidens term The Trump administration has rescued 13,000 out of nearly 450,000 unaccompanied children trafficked or smuggled during Biden's term, uncovering cases of forced labor, underage pregnancy and exploitation. Over 300,000 unaccompanied children were placed with unvetted sponsors, many of whom were later identified as smugglers or traffickers. A DHS report revealed 32,000 children were lost after missing court hearings. The Biden administration ignored a backlog of 65,000 reports on unaccompanied minors; HHS has since processed 59,000 cases, implementing stricter oversight measures. Federal agents rescued children from dire conditions, including a pregnant 14-year-old and siblings forced into labor, while HSI Newark found three minors in abusive, unsanitary conditions. Over 43,000 children skipped court hearings, and 233,000 were never issued notices, leaving them vulnerable. Officials estimate the true number of missing children may exceed 450,000, calling it a humanitarian disaster. In a major step in rectifying the destructive border polices of former President Joe Biden, the Trump administration has rescued 13,000 of almost 450,000 unaccompanied children trafficked or smuggled during the Democrat's term. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced this development Friday, July 25, in a press release on its website. It noted how investigators uncovered cases of underage pregnancy, forced labor and minors living in squalid conditions. Homeland Security Secretary described the crisis as "modern-day slavery." "The evil of human trafficking cannot be overstated," she remarked. "By leaving our borders open and even encouraging people to come here illegally, Biden enabled the largest human-trafficking operation in modern history." The department's success comes amid a revelation by DHS Inspector General Joseph Cuffari during a recent congressional hearing. The inspector general told lawmakers with the House Oversight Committee that between fiscal years 2019 and 2023, more than 448,000 unaccompanied alien children were transferred from Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody to DHS. The Friday statement also stated that more than 300,000 of these unaccompanied children "were allowed to be placed with sponsors who were actually smugglers and sex traffickers." In March of this year, the Department of Health and Human Services discovered a backlog of more than 65,000 reports about unaccompanied minors something the Biden administration turned a blind eye to. Since then, the department implemented new measures to address this, resulting in more than 59,000 backlogged reports being analyzed and processed. (Related: HHS faces fire as Kennedy spells out 300,000 missing children crisis, accuses Biden of enabling exploitation.) Child trafficking: The shocking truth behind Biden's border crisis Federal agents have carried out welfare checks nationwide, rescuing children from dire situations. The rescued children include a pregnant 14-year-old in Texas found with her unborn child's father, and siblings in Tennessee forced to work off smuggling debts. In another example, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark managed to rescue three minors during a welfare check. The three minors were found in a residence infested by rats, and they did not have any food. A subsequent interview by HSI revealed that the three were abused and potentially exploited for labor. Historical parallels to unchecked child migration underscore the severity of the crisis. The second Trump administration has framed its response as a moral obligation, with Noem vowing to "eradicate human trafficking" through stricter enforcement. Of the 448,000 migrant children processed in recent years, more than 43,000 skipped court hearings. Meanwhile, over 233,000 were never issued notices to appear leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. But White House Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller claimed the true number of missing children could exceed 450,000. "The Democrats have committed crimes for which they can never be forgiven, and Donald Trump is cleaning it up right now," he told Fox News in a recent interview. As investigators pursue thousands of leads, the race to recover missing children continues a stark reminder of the human toll of immigration policy failures. With tens of thousands still unaccounted for, the Trump administration faces an unprecedented challenge: Undoing what it calls a humanitarian disaster years in the making. Visit Trafficking.news for more similar stories. Watch this video about how illegals involved in child trafficking and drug dealing, enabled by the Biden administration's lax policies, have ruined American neighborhoods. This video is from the 2Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Biden's border policy is creating "the largest child smuggling epidemic in human history," warns former White House advisor. Biden Regime TRAFFICKED CHILDREN while pretending to be helping them with a "Hotline" where they IGNORED 65,000 CALLS. More than 75,000 TRAFFICKED CHILDREN FOUND: If the Trump administration found these kids in a week, WHY couldn't Biden Regime locate any of them? Sources include: InfoWars.com DHS.gov DailySignal.com Brighteon.com American Academy of Pediatrics DECLARES WAR on parental rights, demands end to vaccine exemptions As the corrupt empire of mainstream medicine crumbles, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has launched a last-ditch effort to tighten its stranglehold on American families . In a tyrannical move straight from the playbook of medical fascism, the AAP is doubling down on its draconian push to eliminate non-medical vaccine exemptions effectively stripping parents of their right to refuse toxic injections for their children. Behind the slick veneer of public health lies a much darker agenda: forcing compliance, silencing dissent, and consolidating power under the ruthless thumb of Big Pharma-controlled pediatricians. Key points: The AAP is pushing states to eliminate religious and philosophical exemptions, leaving only narrowly defined (and increasingly denied) medical exemptions for school attendance. Pediatricians are being urged to refuse any cooperation with families seeking non-medical exemptions, effectively turning doctors into enforcers of state-mandated medical tyranny. School immunization rates are dropping as parents wake up to the dangers of vaccines yet the AAPs solution isnt transparency or informed consent, but coercion. Vaccine failures and injuries are surging (measles outbreaks in vaccinated populations, skyrocketing autism rates), yet the AAP continues to peddle lies about vaccine safety. Parents must fight back by knowing their rights resources like the National Vaccine Information Center and Vax Freedom Guide are critical tools in resisting this medical mafia. Key AAP recommendations include Backing laws requiring immunization certification for child care and school attendance, effectively eliminating religious and philosophical exemptions that parents are increasingly using to avoid having their child poisoned. Supporting equitable vaccine access to maintain in-person schooling through medical homes, public health, and school programs. Permitting only "justified" medical exemptions, regularly re-certified by pediatric providers in line with "Red Book standards." Eliminating all non-medical exemptions for school attendance and ensuring medical exemptions are "evidence based." Advising pediatricians to counsel (coerce) families seeking non-medical exemptions but not to endorse such exemptions. Ensuring child care centers and schools comply with state immunization documentation laws uniformly. Urging public health authorities to disclose immunization rates to assess outbreak risks and determine who should be segregated. The AAPs war on parental rights Fueled by Pharma dollars and a pathological disdain for individual freedom, the AAP has openly declared war on parental choice. Their updated policy statement (Pediatrics, 2025) demands that states remove all non-medical exemptions, reducing parents to beggars pleading for rare medical waivers. Worse still, doctors are being instructed to deny families requests for exemptions essentially acting as gatekeepers for state coercion. Jesse Hackell, AAPs puppet mouthpiece, had the gall to claim: We recommend that vaccination is required for participation in certain public activities... If you choose not to vaccinate, you're essentially choosing to exclude yourself. Translation: Submit or be exiled. This isnt science its medical apartheid, segregating children whose parents dare question the sacred vaccine dogma. While the AAP screeches about "herd immunity", the facts tell another story: Vaccine failure is rampant. Measles outbreaks, pertussis outbreaks (in vaccinated communities), and flu and covid breakthrough cases in vaccination populations prove these shots dont deliver the immunity they promise. Vaccine injuries are real. From autism to autoimmune devastation, thousands of families have been destroyed by the very shots the AAP pushes. Medical exemptions are nearly impossible to get in states like California and New York. With pediatricians pressured to deny exemptions, children with legitimate health risks are forced into harms way. And lets not forget: The AAP profits from this. Funded by vaccine manufacturers, they have zero credibility when it comes to impartial health recommendations. Parents: Stand your ground The AAPs desperation is palpable; their lies are unraveling; parents are revolting; and medical freedom movements are spreading like wildfire. You have the right to refuse. Arm yourself with knowledge: The National Vaccine Information Center (NVIC.org) provides legal tools, exemption templates, state-by-state rights. The Vax Freedom Guide provides broader knowledge to have in hand, including alternatives for building a healthy immune system, and step-by-step resistance strategies against medical coercion. This is not just about vaccinesits about who controls your childs body, who is segregated from society. The AAP wants total surrender, but their demands can only be met with more resistance, as the truth about vaccines continues to spread. Sources include: X.com MedPageToday.com Publications.aap.org NVIC.org VaxFreedomGuide.com New bill seeks to strip vaccine manufacturers of liability protections The End the Vaccine Carveout Act was introduced in Congress on July 23 by Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ), aiming to remove liability protections for vaccine manufacturers and potentially expose them to numerous lawsuits over alleged injuries. The bill seeks to amend the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986, which currently shields manufacturers from most vaccine injury lawsuits. This act was originally enacted to ensure a stable vaccine supply by limiting manufacturers' liability. The proposed legislation would allow individuals to bypass the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program and file civil suits directly against manufacturers in state or federal court. This change would eliminate the current requirement for claimants to exhaust administrative remedies before seeking judicial relief. Supporters argue that the bill will increase accountability by allowing injured individuals to seek legal justice and compensation. Opponents, including industry analysts, warn that it could lead to increased litigation costs, potential disruptions in vaccine production and reduced public health outcomes. The bill's introduction comes amid scrutiny of public confidence in vaccines, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. A new bill introduced in Congress aims to remove liability protections for vaccine manufacturers, potentially opening them up to a flood of lawsuits over alleged injuries. H.R. 4668, known as the End the Vaccine Carveout Act, was introduced on July 23 by Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ). The bill seeks to amend the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986, which currently shields manufacturers from most lawsuits related to vaccine injuries. The legislation was enacted to ensure a stable vaccine supply by limiting manufacturers' liability. Under this law, individuals who believe they have been injured by a vaccine must first file a petition with the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP). This program, however, has faced criticism for its lengthy backlog, with judgments often taking years to be rendered. The new bill would allow individuals to bypass the VICP and file civil suits directly against manufacturers in state or federal court. This change could significantly alter the legal landscape, as it would remove the current requirement for claimants to exhaust administrative remedies before seeking judicial relief. Gosar argues that the existing liability protections unfairly shield pharmaceutical companies from accountability. "Current immunity provisions unfairly shielding Big Pharma from the harms caused by their products prevent those injured by vaccines from pursuing a civil lawsuit," Gosar stated on July 24. He emphasized that the bill would "put patients over profits" by allowing injured individuals to seek legal justice and compensation. The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act was a response to a crisis in the 1980s when several lawsuits against vaccine manufacturers threatened to cause vaccine shortages and reduce vaccination rates. The legislation was designed to balance the need for vaccine safety with the necessity of maintaining a robust vaccine supply. The act established the VICP, a no-fault alternative to traditional tort litigation, to provide compensation to individuals injured by certain vaccines. The program has paid out billions of dollars in compensation since its inception, but critics argue that it is not sufficiently accessible or timely. The introduction of H.R. 4668 comes at a time when public confidence in vaccines is under scrutiny, particularly in the wake of the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Advocates for the bill argue that it will increase transparency and accountability, ultimately leading to safer vaccines. Opponents, however, warn that it could have unintended consequences, such as increased litigation costs and potential disruptions in vaccine production. (Related: Kennedy removes entire CDC vaccine panel in dramatic shake-up.) Support and Opposition Support for the bill has come from various advocacy groups, including the nonprofit Children's Health Defense. Mary Holland, the organization's president, expressed strong support for the legislation, stating that it would ensure vaccines are held to the highest standards of safety and effectiveness. "This is exactly what we need to ensure that vaccines are as safe as possible," Holland said in a statement. On the other hand, the pharmaceutical industry has remained largely silent on the matter. PhRMA, a trade group representing vaccine manufacturers, did not respond to a request for comment. However, industry analysts suggest that manufacturers are likely concerned about the potential impact on their businesses. Historically, the pharmaceutical industry has argued that liability protections are essential to encourage innovation and investment in vaccine development. They contend that without these protections, manufacturers might be less inclined to produce vaccines, which could lead to shortages and reduced public health outcomes. The End the Vaccine Carveout Act represents a significant shift in the approach to vaccine liability. If passed, it could have far-reaching implications for both the pharmaceutical industry and public health. While proponents argue that it will enhance accountability and safety, opponents warn of potential disruptions to vaccine supply and increased litigation. Watch the video below that talks about how childhood vaccines have not gone through safety trials. This video is from The People Of The Qur'an (TPQ) channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: New study links children's COVID vaccines to autoimmune risks as HHS halts routine recommendations. Vaccine data in Japan reveals deadly trend: Deaths PEAK with each COVID jab unvaccinated protected and vindicated. FDA limits COVID-19 vaccine approvals to elderly and high-risk groups, but millions still eligible. Sources include: TheEpochTimes.com Congress.gov Gosar.House.gov Brighteon.com Gunman with documented mental health history kills NYPD officer, 3 others in Manhattan office shooting A gunman armed with an AR-15-style rifle killed four people, including an NYPD officer, in a Midtown Manhattan skyscraper before taking his own life. The shooter, Shane Devon Tamura, had a documented history of mental instability but legally obtained firearms and evaded intervention. Officer Didarul Islam, an immigrant from Bangladesh and a father of two, was shot while working a security detail, leaving behind a pregnant wife. Tamura entered the lobby of 345 Park Avenue, fired indiscriminately, and later killed another victim on the 33rd floor before taking his own life. Critics highlight systemic failures in mental health, as politicians debate solutions while New York mourns the tragic loss. In a chilling act of violence that has left New York City reeling, a lone gunman armed with an AR-15-style rifle stormed a Midtown Manhattan skyscraper on Monday evening, murdering four people, including an NYPD officer, before turning the weapon on himself. The attack, which unfolded at 345 Park Avenue, a towering symbol of corporate power, has exposed yet again the deadly consequences of unchecked mental illness and the failure of the system to intervene before tragedy strikes. The shooter, identified as Shane Devon Tamura, 27, of Las Vegas, had a documented history of mental instability, according to law enforcement. Yet despite these red flags, he was able to unleash terror in one of Americas busiest business districts. The victims included NYPD Officer Didarul Islam, a 36-year-old Bangladeshi immigrant who leaves behind a pregnant wife and two young children. A frightening attack At approximately 6:28 p.m., surveillance footage captured Tamura exiting a black BMW parked illegally on Park Avenue, gripping an M4-style rifle. Without hesitation, he marched into the lobby of 345 Park Avenuehome to financial giants like Blackstone, the NFL, and KPMGand immediately opened fire. His first target was Officer Islam, who was working a private security detail. The gunman reportedly entered the lobby, where he shot the NYPD officer before shooting a woman trying to take cover behind a pillar and spraying the lobby with gunfire. After the initial carnage, Tamura moved to the elevator bank, where he allowed one woman to exit unharmed before ascending to the 33rd floor. There, he murdered another victim before taking his own life with a gunshot to the chest. A hero cut down in his prime Officer Didarul Islam embodied the American dream. An immigrant from Bangladesh, he worked tirelessly to build a life for his family, purchasing a home in the Bronx and serving his community with pride. His death has sent shockwaves through New Yorks Bangladeshi community, where he was a mentor and role model. He was saving lives. He was protecting New Yorkers, Mayor Eric Adams said in a somber news conference. He embodies what this city is all about. Hes a true blue New Yorker, not only in a uniform he wore. Marjanul Karim, a close family friend, remembered Islam as a man who came as an immigrant, started working as a security guard at a school He wanted to support his family and be in a better position, and he fell in love with law enforcement. A system that failed While politicians rushed to politicize the tragedyHouse Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called for stricter gun lawsthe real issue lies in the glaring failures of mental health intervention. Tamura had a history of instability, yet he was able to legally obtain firearms in Nevada and evade detection as he traversed multiple states. Records show Tamura held a concealed carry permit and a private investigator license in Nevada, despite a prior misdemeanor trespassing charge. His erratic behavior should have raised alarms, yet no system stopped him from embarking on his deadly mission. Neighbors from his childhood in California expressed shock, remembering him as a typical kid. Debi Hatfield, a former neighbor, recalled him as just a little kid following his older brother around. Its really shocking. For now, New York mourns. The Bangladeshi community gathers in grief outside Officer Islams home, while the city grapples with another senseless act of violence. The only certainty is that without real solutions beyond political grandstanding, such tragedies will repeat. Officer Islams legacy, however, will endure. As his friend Karim poignantly noted: He died a hero He would always tell my mother, We all have to die one way or another, and so I guess this is the way that he left. Sources for this article include: RT.com NYTimes.com FoxNews.com Adults who nodded along with MEDICAL TYRANNY and IDIOCY inflicted serious psychological harm on childrens minds In the name of "safety" and "saving grandma," governments and compliant adults and educators waged war on childhood itself - treating children as vectors of disease and training them to distrust one another as sources of filth and contamination. Mask mandates, physical isolation and distancing, coupled with school closures, routine temperature checks, and constant guilt trips led to sweeping psychological and emotional abuses. These policies of "public health safety" went on to slash student IQ scores, stunt emotional growth, and create a dumbed down student population, while crippling an entire generation with social anxiety, germaphobia, isolation, hypochondria, and depression. These policies were not rooted in science, but in blind obedience to power-hungry bureaucrats and school officials. While hollow-faced officials like Anthony Fauci peddled fear, parents watched helplessly as their toddlers lost the ability to speak, to play, even to think normally. The damning truth? None of this was necessary. Sweden never closed schools. Florida rejected mask theatrics and fought for in person learning. Yet the autocrats plowed forward, trading childrens futures for the illusion of controland now, the evidence of their crimes can no longer be ignored. Key points: A sweeping new review of 17 studies confirms pandemic-era children suffered catastrophic declines in cognitive, emotional, and motor skills. Toddlers born under lockdowns scored 22 IQ points lower than pre-pandemic peers, with severe delays in language, problem-solving, and social development. Mask mandates stripped children of facial cues, while isolation bred irreversible psychological damageyet experts still refuse accountability. Countries like Sweden, which kept schools open, saw none of these harms, proving lockdowns were political, not scientific. States like Florida reopened schools in the Fall of 2020, and parents fought back at school board meetings to get masks off their kids sooner than any state in the US. Parents who resisted the medical tyranny gave their children the best path forward, teaching resiliency and courage to a system weaponized to destroy the family unity and sound thinking. The collapse of childhood One developmental disaster at a time The study, published this month, is a horrifying autopsy of what happens when societies abandon reason. Researchers compared children assessed before COVID tyranny with those raised under lockdowns, mask edicts, and social distancing cultism. The verdict? Lockdown-born kids failed every benchmark. Nearly all 17 studies showed plunging scores in communication, motor skills, and emotional resilience using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3). For 3- to 4-year-olds, the damage was especially grotesque. Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) assessments revealed toddlers suffered "significant declines in verbal, motor, and overall cognitive performance"with losses worsening month by month. Translation: Every minute these children spent masked, isolated, or locked indoors cratered their brain development further, turning normal milestones into unreachable targets. And where was Fauci? Woolgathering over "the science"a phrase now synonymous with fraud. When DeSantis reopened Florida schools in August 2020, teachers unions staged coffin parades, shrieking about corpses piling up. (They didnt.) When Sweden defied lockdowns, media outlets smeared them as "death labs." When Harvards Great Barrington Declaration proposed focused protection for the vulnerable while letting children live, Fauci actively orchestrated its suppressionproving he cared more about dogma than kids. The gaslighting continues: "We dont know what went wrong" Even now, with stacks of data showing generational sabotage, the "expert" class contorts itself to avoid blame. The reviews authors lament: "It is still not well understood why and how the pandemic may have been associated with changes in development." Bullseye ignorance. Have they considered: Masks obscured mouths, crippling speech and emotional recognition? Lockdowns severed children from peers, teachers, even parkscritical for neurological wiring? Fear propaganda taught kids to view human connection as lethal? The answer echoes through empty classrooms and broken families. Institutions prioritized compliance over competence, leaving children as collateral damage. Meanwhile, the architectsFauci, Collins, Walenskystrut away unscathed. The silence of the complicit No apologies. No reparations. The same politicians who locked playgrounds but kept strip clubs "essential" now pretend they never existed. Gavin Newsom dines maskless at French Laundry while California kids languish in learning loss. Randi Weingarten ($500K salary) still claims school closures were "for the children." But parents know better. Some fought back, raising defiant, free-thinking kids who mock the masks and distrust the false authorities who tried to bind them. For most, though, the scars run even deeperlowered IQs, socialization gaps, confusion, and a lifetime of catching up. Sources include: Brownstone.org BiomedCentral.com IanMSC.substack.com Enoch, Brighteon.ai CYBERATTACK on major French naval defense company raises national security alarms Hackers infiltrated France's top naval defense contractor, Naval Group, exposing sensitive military software, technical documents and source code for submarine combat systems, posing severe risks to national security. Unlike typical cyberattacks where data is sold, the hackers leaked a 13GB sample (partially verified) and threatened extortion, pressuring the company to pay before further disclosures. Naval Group builder of France's nuclear aircraft carrier with roots dating to the 17th century houses classified naval tech. A breach could force costly upgrades and operational changes to prevent exploitation by adversaries. The leak raises concerns among NATO allies sharing naval technology and highlights vulnerabilities in military supply chains, with potential gaps in defense contractor cybersecurity worldwide. The attack underscores how even long-established defense institutions are vulnerable in an era where cyber threats blur espionage and crime, risking decades of national security compromises. A staggering cybersecurity breach at France's largest naval defense contractor Naval Group has allegedly exposed sensitive combat system software used in the country's submarines and frigates, posing a grave threat to national security. Hackers announced the intrusion on a prominent data leak forum, claiming to have stolen classified technical documents, source code and internal communications. The bad actors leveraged the stolen data not for sale but for extortion. The Paris-based Naval Group, a cornerstone of European defense with revenues exceeding $5 billion, has yet to confirm the breach. Researchers from Cybernews analyzing a 13-gigabyte sample of the leaked files found partial evidence of authenticity, deepening fears about the repercussions for France's military readiness. Digital warfare has increasingly blurred the lines between espionage and organized crime, with defense contractors becoming prime targets. (Related: National security BREACHED after hackers break into most sensitive U.S. government files.) The breach deals a serious blow to the naval defense contractor, which traces its origins to the 17th century and houses some of the nation's most guarded naval technology. During its time as DCN, the company built built France's nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle. It later changed its name twice to DCNS in 2007 following several acquisitions, and to Naval Group (its current name) in 2017. The attackers' post included details such as source code for submarine combat management systems (CMS), network topology data, restricted technical documents and intercepted confidential messages. It raises the specter of adversaries reverse-engineering military systems or exploiting vulnerabilities in active fleets. But among the leaked files was submarine monitoring footage from 2003, hinting at possible outdated data mixed with current secrets. Naval Group hack exposes fatal flaws The breach's timing coincides with heightened cyber threats against critical infrastructure globally, where ransomware gangs and state-backed actors exploit weak defenses for financial or geopolitical gain. Unlike typical attacks where stolen data is auctioned, this operation mirrors high-stakes extortion campaigns, pressuring victims to pay before leaks escalate. Cybernews researchers noted the partial legitimacy of the sample but cautioned that hackers often exaggerate their haul's significance. If verified, however, the exposure of CMS source codes could force France into costly system upgrades and operational overhauls to prevent exploitation by hostile nations. Naval Group's prominence in Europe's defense industry partnering with governments and private entities like Thales Group makes this incident a bellwether for cybersecurity vulnerabilities in military supply chains. The French Ministry of Armed Forces faces mounting pressure to address potential gaps, not just in Naval Group's systems but across defense contractors shielding sensitive technologies. Past breaches, such as the 2021 ransomware attack on Ireland's health service, underscore how cybercriminals paralyze critical operations. However, a military-focused leak carries wider strategic consequences. As Naval Group remains silent, the implications ripple beyond France. North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies reliant on shared naval technology may scrutinize their own defenses, while adversaries could exploit any verified leaks. Ultimately, the Naval Group breach underscores a brutal truth. Even centuries-old defense institutions are vulnerable in the digital age, where a single breach can compromise national security for decades. Watch this video about a massive data breach that exposed 16 billion passwords. This video is from the newsplusglobe channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: "Nearly all" AT&T customers hacked by data breach now what? Hackers steal 5.7 million Qantas passengers' data in massive breach, contact airline demanding ransom. Walgreens security breach leaked millions of patients' covid test data to hackers, including your birthday and home address. Sources include: Cybernews.com DailySecurityReview.com Redhotcyber.com Brighteon.com Solar geoengineering gold rush sparks outcry as elites muscle into climate policy Wealthy tech and finance elites are escalating funding for solar geoengineering amid public backlash over secretive experiments. Californias Alameda City Council halted a University of Washington cloud-altering project over lack of transparency and community input. Quadrature Climate Foundation and the Simons Foundation plan tens of millions in grants despite ethical concerns over private control of climate science. Critics warn high-net-worth donors with ties to fossil fuels risk undermining trust in research and enabling reckless environmental interventions. Scientists debate the urgency of studying plan B climate fixes but emphasize need for global governance and public oversight. Wealthy philanthropists linked to Silicon Valley and Wall Street are forging ahead with multimillion-dollar investments in solar geoengineering researchdespite public condemnation of botched cloud-altering experiments in California and Swedenraising alarms about unchecked corporate influence over the Earths climate systems. The abrupt termination of a controversial $10 million Alameda experiment in April, which involved spraying seawater mist from a decommissioned aircraft carrier, exposed deepening tensions between secretive elite-funded science and democratic accountability. Alamedas failed experiment and the slippery slope of power The California city councils unanimous decision to block the University of Washingtons CAARE projecta bid to increase ocean cloud reflectivity and counteract global warmingtook the scientific community by surprise. City officials accused researchers of circumventing regulatory oversight, launching an international experiment via a museum boat lease without local permitting. This wasnt some small experimentit was a precedent-setting step toward altering the atmosphere under a privileged loophole, said Alameda Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft during heated council hearings. The projects 20-minute operational lifespan ended after residents and environmentalists condemned the lack of independent reviews. Similar pushback halted a parallel stratospheric aerosol test in Sweden this spring, underscoring global skepticism toward unilaterally tinkering with the climate. Private funding, public risks: Tech billionaires rewrite climate science rules While the Alameda setback sent shockwaves, donors like Bill Gates, cryptocurrency moguls Chris Larsen and Quake Capitals Quadrature Foundation are doubling down. Quadrature alone plans to pour $40 million into solar geoengineering over three years, nearly doubling global private funding from 20082018. We need to act fast on solar radiation management thats why the private sector must step up, stated David Spergel, president of the Simons Foundation, which has committed $50 million toward modeling studies. Critics decry this gold rush as a dangerous parallel to fossil fuel lobbying. This isnt scienceits a play to monopolize control of the skies, said Professor Holly Buck of the University of Buffalo, noting Quadratures $400 million in fossil fuel investments. Copenhagen-based policy analyst Duncan McLaren warned that secretive funding streams risk skewing research outcomes, citing cases where review boards are hand-picked to greenlight proposals. Global South unjustly outgunned in climate governance Despite funders pledges of equitable global oversight, marginalized communities remain sidelined. Researchers from the Global South received only 1% of global geoengineering funding between 20082018, even as island nations and arid regions face existential climate threats. Poor countries will suffer first if something goes wrong, said Kelly Wanser of SilverLining, a nonprofit steering millions from private donors to research grants. Yet advocacy campaigns funded by elitesincluding Metas ex-CTO Mike Schroepfers Outlier Projectsface accusations of tokenizing marginalized voices while prioritizing tech-centric solutions. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine urged $100200 million in U.S. federal research funding by 2026, but progress lags. When will governments shoulder this responsibility instead of letting billionaires dictate the agenda? demanded environmental ethicist Molly Macauley (Resources for the Future), noting only 11% of current geoengineering budgets from public sources. The stakeholders, not the science, are unstoppable? As Quadrature and Sims Foundation pledges solidify, the message grows clear: the climate policy landscape is now being written not just by scientists or governments, but by ultra-wealthy investors pursuing what they deem moral technical fixes. Yet with Alameda as a cautionary tale, the stakes extend beyond ethicsa single misstep in spraying sulfates or destabilizing cloud systems could trigger droughts or floods for millions. For opponents, the fight is as much about democracy as the environment. These billionaires see climate solutions as their playthings, said longtime environmental attorney David Bookbinder (Niskanen Center). And if we let them write the rules, the Earth itself becomes their private laboratory. Sources for this article include: Politico.com TechnologyReview.com Politico.com U.K.s Online Safety Act sparks outcry after X restricts access to protest footage The United Kingdom's Online Safety Act (OSA) came into full effect on July 25, triggering immediate criticism over censorship and overreach by the government. X (formerly Twitter) restricted access to videos from anti-migration protests, including peaceful footage of arrests, citing "local laws" and requiring age verification to view content. X now uses tools like email address cross-checks and "reverse address book" analysis to estimate users' ages methods approved by Ofcom and also used by Google. A petition to repeal the law has gained over 160,000 signatures, forcing a Parliamentary debate, while VPN usage in the U.K. spiked by over 700 percent as users tried to bypass restrictions. Critics, including Elon Musk, warn the law is being weaponized to suppress political dissent rather than protect children, as originally intended. The United Kingdom's controversial Online Safety Act (OSA) officially came into full effect on Friday, July 25, and its first day has ignited a storm of backlash, with critics accusing the government of enabling sweeping online censorship. British users of X, formerly known as Twitter, were among the first to feel the impact. Numerous posts containing videos from recent anti-migration protests were suddenly blocked behind new age-verification walls. The restricted footage includes scenes from demonstrations in Epping, Essex, following reports that a 14-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by a migrant housed in government-funded accommodation. "Our fears appear to have been vindicated on the very first day of the Online Safety Act's enactment. Some footage of protests taking place this evening against illegal immigration is unavailable on X for at least some U.K. users, with a warning about a restriction due to 'local laws' appearing as the Online Safety Act comes into force. If you have a standard X account in the U.K., presumably the majority of British users, it appears that you may not be able to see any protest footage that contains violence. We're aware of one censored post that shows an arrest being made. We warned repeatedly about how censorious this piece of legislation would be," The Free Speech Union posted on X. Users trying to view these clips encountered warnings such as: "Due to local laws, we are temporarily restricting access to this content until X estimates your age." To proceed, they were prompted to verify their identity using more invasive age estimation tools. (Related: U.K. Reddit users now required to verify their age under new Online Safety Act.) In line with this, a petition to repeal the OSA has already gathered over 160,000 signatures, triggering a mandatory Parliamentary debate. Meanwhile, VPN usage surged by more than 700 percent in the U.K. that same day, as users scrambled for ways to access restricted content. X now uses emails and contacts to block under-18s as U.K. age-check rules kick in X, now owned by Musk, earlier confirmed that it would use controversial tools to estimate a user's age, including cross-referencing email addresses with third-party data from banks and utility companies. Another method, called "reverse address book median age estimation," which uses a user's online contacts to guess their likely age. The email estimation method, developed by U.K. firm Verifymy, is one of the few techniques officially approved by Ofcom for compliance. Google also uses the same method for certain age checks. Musk, known for his vocal stance on free speech, cryptically reposted a tweet on Saturday, July 26. "It's purpose is suppression of the people," he wrote, along with a retweet from an X user, who stated that, "The Online Safety Act was never about protecting anyone." The law, originally pitched by the previous Conservative government as a way to protect minors from pornography and violent imagery, is now being used to suppress politically sensitive material, including peaceful protest footage. Learn more about ID systems and other ways governments attempt to surveil their populations at Surveillance.news. Watch this video discussing how Canada is watching how the U.K. is implementing the Online Safety Act as it prepares its own anti-online content law. This video is from the Rick Langley channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: U.K.'s "Online Safety Act" OFFICIALLY grants MSM permission to publish LIES. Britain's new Online Safety Act is forcing small websites to shut down. TYRANNY: Online Safety ACT explicitly allows media to publish LIES as facts. U.K.'s Online Safety Act: A death knell for small websites and free expression. U.K.'s Online Safety Act comes into effect: The dangerous, slippery slope of censorship laws. Sources include: YourNews.com X.com 1 TheTimesofLondon.com X.com 2 Brighteon.com UN confirms famine in Gaza as some parents pray for childrens deaths to end suffering Gaza faces a man-made famine with over two million Palestinians suffering starvation, malnutrition, and disease under Israeli blockade and bombardment. The UN confirms famine conditions, with children dying from starvation and parents pleading for death to end their suffering. Israeli forces obstruct aid, attack civilians seeking food, and deny the famine's existence despite overwhelming evidence. Global leaders fail to act decisively, offering minimal aid while refusing to pressure Israel for a ceasefire or full humanitarian access. This crisis, described as the "worst crime of the 21st century," demands urgent intervention before more lives are lost. The world is witnessing one of the most horrific humanitarian crises of the 21st century unfold in Gaza, where more than two million Palestinians now face a man-made famine of unprecedented brutality. According to the United Nations-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), Gaza has officially reached famine thresholds, with starvation, malnutrition, and disease ravaging a population trapped under relentless siege and bombardment. Children collapse in the streets, parents pray for death to spare their families further agony, and basic survival has become a luxuryall while the international community watches in silence. A deliberate famine unfolds Gazas famine is not an accident. It is the direct result of a near-total blockade on food, water, and medical aid imposed by Israeli authorities, compounded by the destruction of infrastructure and targeted attacks on civilians seeking sustenance. The IPC reports that two of three famine indicatorsplummeting food consumption and acute malnutritionhave been breached, with mounting evidence of starvation-related deaths completing the grim picture. "Mounting evidence shows that widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths," the IPC stated in its latest alert. The UN World Food Programmes Ross Smith called it "a disaster unfolding in front of our eyes," adding, "This is not a warning, this is a call to action." Yet the call goes unanswered. Since late May, more than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed while attempting to access food aid, according to UN figures. Areas once deemed "safe" have become death traps, with Israeli forces reportedly targeting starving civilians. Former UN aid chief Martin Griffiths condemned the crisis as "the worst crime of the 21st century." Children wasting away The most harrowing victims are Gazas children. More than 20,000 have been treated for acute malnutrition since April, with at least 16 children under five confirmed dead from starvation in July alone. Infants like Yahya al-Najjar, just months old, have succumbed to emaciation, their tiny bodies reduced to skeletal frames. Parents, unable to feed their families, are driven to unthinkable despair. "I saw a mother praying for her children to die, simply because she could no longer feed them," reported Ahmed Aziz for Middle East Eye. "Some mothers sit at the entrances of their tents, tears falling, whispering broken prayers: 'Oh God, please take them... relieve them of this suffering.'" Markets stand empty. A kilogram of flour now costs $30; sugar costs $130. Families subsist on "invented meals"lentils mixed with pasta, rice cooked over open fires, or boiled water masquerading as soup. "We eat, then feel hungry again an hour later," Aziz wrote. A world complicit in silence The famines severity is exacerbated by Israels near-total shutdown of aid crossings since March. Despite hollow promises of "tactical pauses," only a trickle of aid enters Gaza, while shipments are routinely obstructed or looted. The UN estimates 90% of Gazas population is displaced, with safe zones reduced to less than 12% of the territory. Hospitals, overwhelmed and under-resourced, report surging malnutrition cases with no medicines to treat them. Meanwhile, global leaders dither. While the IPC demands an "immediate ceasefire" and "unimpeded humanitarian access," political posturing continues. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flatly denies starvation exists in Gaza, even as his government blocks lifesaving aid. The U.S. and European nations offer token airdrops"a drop of water in the ocean," as Spains foreign minister admittedwhile refusing to enforce meaningful pressure on Israel. Gazas famine is a crime against humanity, meticulously engineered through siege and indifference. The world has the means to stop it by flooding the Strip with aid, demanding a ceasefire, and holding perpetrators accountable, but it lacks the moral courage. As children perish and parents beg for mercy, history will judge not only the architects of this horror but those who stood by and let it happen. Sources for this article include: MiddleEastEye.net MiddleEastMonitor.com News.UN.org Edition.CNN.com Download Now The News-Gazette mobile app brings you the latest local breaking news, updates, and more. Read the News-Gazette on your mobile device just as it appears in print. In a revealing Genomic Press Interview published today in Genomic Psychiatry, Dr. Alexander W. Charney describes how treating patients with schizophrenia transformed his scientific pursuits from abstract questions to an urgent mission, ultimately leading to discoveries that challenge fundamental assumptions in neuroscience research. The interview explores Dr. Charney's creation of the groundbreaking Living Brain Project at Mount Sinai, which has collected over 300 brain tissue samples from living patients undergoing neurosurgery. His team's findings reveal a startling reality: 80% of genes exhibit different expression levels in living versus postmortem brain tissue, calling into question decades of neuroscience research based primarily on postmortem samples. From big questions to bold solutions "I am drawn to big questions - how things work, how people work," Dr. Charney explains in the interview. However, it was his direct experience treating patients with schizophrenia that transformed intellectual curiosity into moral imperative. "I was struck by how little we truly understand the brain at a molecular level, particularly when compared to other organs. That gap felt like both a scientific challenge and a moral imperative." This realization propelled Dr. Charney to build unprecedented research infrastructure. As Director of the Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine and Vice Chair of the Windreich Department of AI in Human Health at Mount Sinai, he recognized that achieving his goals required creating entirely new systems. "I moved into leadership as it became clear to me that the systems I needed to accomplish my goals did not exist yet, and no one else was working on building them," he shares. Pandemic as catalyst The COVID-19 pandemic emerged as a defining moment in Dr. Charney's career trajectory. Having graduated medical school in 2012 and completed residency in 2018, he represents what he calls "a new generation of leaders in medicine." When the pandemic struck New York City in March 2020, he made the bold decision to redeploy his entire laboratory to the crisis response effort. This pivot proved transformative, leading to landmark publications in Nature Medicine, Cell, and Science. As Lead Principal Investigator, he secured $22 million for the NIH RECOVER Initiative to study long COVID, demonstrating how crisis can accelerate both scientific discovery and leadership development. Building tomorrow's medicine today Beyond the Living Brain Project, Dr. Charney co-directs the Mount Sinai Million Health Discoveries Program, one of America's largest precision medicine initiatives. In partnership with Regeneron Genetics Center, the program will sequence one million patients over five years, with particular emphasis on advancing health equity for underrepresented populations. The interview reveals Dr. Charney's multifaceted approach to advancing psychiatric care. As Executive Director of the Blau Adolescent Consultation Center for Resilience and Treatment and Head of the Brain and Data Sciences Lab, he integrates artificial intelligence and machine learning to accelerate therapeutic development. His team's work spans psychiatric genomics, computational psychiatry, and multi-omics analysis. A lifelong mission Throughout the interview, Dr. Charney's ultimate goal remains clear: developing cures for severe mental illnesses like schizophrenia. "My lifelong goal is to develop cures for severe mental illnesses like schizophrenia. Everything I do in my career is with an eye towards that goal," he states, referencing his team's recent Nature Genetics publication on the subject. The interview also captures a lighter moment from a Mount Sinai retreat, where Dr. Charney interviewed Ameca, described as the world's most advanced humanoid robot. This interaction, showcasing the robot's lifelike expressions and conversational abilities, embodied the institution's bold vision for AI's role in healthcare's future. Values and vision When discussing the scientific community's challenges, Dr. Charney doesn't mince words about what he sees as a fundamental problem: "We have a crisis of reproducibility driven by researchers prioritizing personal prestige over finding solutions for patients." His commitment to scientific rigor permeates his approach, as he emphasizes the importance of questioning assumptions and ruling out all alternative explanations before accepting findings. Outside the laboratory, Dr. Charney finds balance through long-distance sea kayaking, describing his love for spending time on rivers, lakes, and oceans. His favorite possession, a Gibson J-200 acoustic guitar named Gertrude, hints at the creative outlets that complement his scientific pursuits. Dr. Alexander W. Charney's Genomic Press interview is part of a larger series called Innovators & Ideas that highlights the people behind today's most influential scientific breakthroughs. Each interview in the series offers a blend of cutting-edge research and personal reflections, providing readers with a comprehensive view of the scientists shaping the future. By combining a focus on professional achievements with personal insights, this interview style invites a richer narrative that both engages and educates readers. This format provides an ideal starting point for profiles that explore the scientist's impact on the field, while also touching on broader human themes. More information on the research leaders and rising stars featured in our Innovators & Ideas Genomic Press Interview series can be found in our publications website: https://genomicpress.kglmeridian.com/. In a revealing Genomic Press Interview published today in Brain Medicine, Dr. Camilo de la Fuente-Sandoval shares how personal history and scientific passion converged to create groundbreaking advances in schizophrenia treatment prediction. The distinguished neuroscientist, recently honored with the Schizophrenia International Research Society's prestigious 2024 Global Schizophrenia Award, has established a unique research paradigm that combines cutting-edge neuroimaging with comprehensive clinical care in one of Latin America's most populous urban centers. From political exile to scientific excellence The journey that led Dr. de la Fuente-Sandoval to become a leading voice in psychosis research began with displacement. His father, a researcher forced to flee Chile for political reasons, saw his scientific career abruptly terminated. This family history of interrupted scientific pursuit became a driving force that would later shape the younger de la Fuente-Sandoval's determination to build something lasting in neuroscience research. During his psychiatry residency at the Instituto Nacional de Neurologia y Neurocirugia, patients experiencing psychosis captivated his attention. Guided by fellow resident Ariel Graff-Guerrero, who had completed advanced neuroscience training, Dr. de la Fuente-Sandoval embarked on spectroscopy studies that would fundamentally alter understanding of early psychosis mechanisms. These initial investigations in both clinical high-risk subjects and first-episode psychosis patients revealed neurochemical alterations that had previously remained hidden from clinical observation. The success of these early studies prompted institutional leadership to offer him laboratory space, catalyzing the creation of what would become the Laboratory of Experimental Psychiatry. This opportunity sparked an ambitious vision: developing imaging markers that could guide treatment selection rather than relying on the traditional trial-and-error approach that often delays effective intervention in young people experiencing their first psychotic episodes. Revolutionary care model in resource-limited settings Operating within Mexico City's sprawling metropolitan area of 22 million residents, where mental health resources remain severely limited, Dr. de la Fuente-Sandoval has engineered an innovative clinical research ecosystem. His team established a specialized outpatient clinic staffed by laboratory-affiliated psychiatrists while simultaneously implementing comprehensive evaluation protocols in the emergency department. This integrated approach ensures that first-episode psychosis patients receive immediate, thorough assessment including routine laboratory tests, head CT scans, and selective lumbar punctures based on clinical judgment. Remarkably, approximately 8% of patients presenting with first-episode psychosis are discovered to have secondary causes such as viral encephalitis or autoimmune conditions. Could this systematic screening approach, if implemented more broadly, prevent misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment in similar patient populations worldwide? All patients undergo comprehensive evaluation within 24 hours of emergency admission, including neuropsychological testing and MRI studies. This rapid assessment protocol serves dual purposes: enabling immediate treatment initiation while generating crucial research data. The entire process occurs at no cost to patients, addressing both scientific questions and healthcare access barriers simultaneously. Glutamate: The missing piece in treatment prediction The laboratory's most significant contribution centers on discoveries about glutamate dysfunction in early psychosis. Through sophisticated MRI spectroscopy techniques applied to antipsychotic-naive patients, Dr. de la Fuente-Sandoval's team identified elevated glutamate levels specifically within the associative striatum. More importantly, they demonstrated that these elevations normalize following effective antipsychotic treatment. This finding opens unprecedented possibilities for treatment personalization. Rather than subjecting patients to potentially ineffective medications for weeks or months, clinicians might soon predict treatment response through baseline neuroimaging assessments. What implications might this hold for reducing the duration of untreated psychosis, a factor strongly associated with long-term outcomes? The potential to match patients with optimal treatments from the outset represents a paradigm shift in psychiatric care delivery. The research extends beyond glutamate to encompass electrophysiology, cognitive assessment, and inflammation markers. This multidimensional approach recognizes psychosis as a complex phenomenon requiring equally sophisticated investigative strategies. By integrating multiple biological markers, the laboratory works toward comprehensive predictive models that could transform clinical decision-making. Building global collaborations from the global South Despite geographic and resource constraints, Dr. de la Fuente-Sandoval has positioned his laboratory at the forefront of international schizophrenia research. His leadership role in the ENIGMA Clinical High Risk for Psychosis Working Group facilitates data sharing and collaborative analyses across continents. This participation ensures that findings from Latin American populations contribute to global understanding of psychosis mechanisms. The laboratory's success challenges assumptions about where cutting-edge neuroscience can flourish. By leveraging Mexico City's large patient population and combining it with rigorous scientific methodology, the team generates insights unavailable in better-resourced but smaller research settings. How might other investigators in resource-limited environments replicate this model of turning apparent disadvantages into scientific opportunities? Dr. de la Fuente-Sandoval's Genomic Press interview is part of a larger series called Innovators & Ideas that highlights the people behind today's most influential scientific breakthroughs. Each interview in the series offers a blend of cutting-edge research and personal reflections, providing readers with a comprehensive view of the scientists shaping the future. By combining a focus on professional achievements with personal insights, this interview style invites a richer narrative that both engages and educates readers. This format provides an ideal starting point for profiles that explore the scientist's impact on the field, while also touching on broader human themes. More information on the research leaders and rising stars featured in our Innovators & Ideas -- Genomic Press Interview series can be found in our publications website: https://genomicpress.kglmeridian.com/. The Mount Sinai Hospital, the flagship hospital of Mount Sinai Health System, was listed among the nation's top 20 hospitals for care excellence by U.S. News & World Report for 2025-26, marking the 10th consecutive year the hospital has been listed on the publication's "Honor Roll." The Mount Sinai Hospital held top-10 rankings in five specialties, up from four in 2024, and top-20 rankings in nine specialties, up from eight in 2024. In addition to a total of 12 nationally ranked specialties, the hospital was also rated "High Performing" in all 22 procedures and conditions assessed by U.S. News, and noted for its Health Equity Score. This award recognizes the hospital's success in caring for patients in all socioeconomic groups in the community while maintaining high-quality care. Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West were nationally ranked in five specialties and rated "High Performing" in 16 procedures and conditions this year. Mount Sinai South Nassau was rated "High Performing" in nine. These rankings once again reflect the commitment to science, innovation, and the exceptional, patient-centered care that define The Mount Sinai Hospital and our entire Health System. This recognition is a testament to the strength of One Mount Sinai-a unified team of physicians, nurses, and staff across all our hospitals and care settings who deliver compassionate, high-quality care to every patient, every day." Brendan G. Carr, MD, MA, MS, Chief Executive Officer and the Kenneth L. Davis, MD, Distinguished Chair, Mount Sinai Health System "This remarkable recognition is a testament to the extraordinary dedication and compassion of our clinicians and caregivers, who go above and beyond every day to deliver the most advanced care with dignity, respect, and without regard to a patient's background or financial means," said David L. Reich, MD, President of The Mount Sinai Hospital and Chief Clinical Officer of the Mount Sinai Health System. "It is a profound honor to lead and collaborate with a team so deeply committed to placing patients and their families at the heart of everything we do." "We are incredibly proud that both Mount Sinai West and Mount Sinai Morningside have been nationally ranked in five specialties and rated 'High Performing' in 16 procedures and conditions by U.S. News & World Report," said Tracy Breen, MD, President of Mount Sinai West and Mount Sinai Morningside. "These distinctions reflect the exceptional dedication of our physicians, nurses, and staff who work tirelessly to deliver outstanding, compassionate care to our patients and communities every day. It is an honor to see their commitment to clinical excellence and innovation recognized on a national stage." The Mount Sinai Hospital specialties ranked among the top 20 nationally this year were: Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery (No. 2) Geriatrics (No. 3) Gastroenterology & GI Surgery (No. 5) Cancer (No. 6) Urology (No. 6) Neurology & Neurosurgery (No. 11) Orthopedics (No. 14) Obstetrics & Gynecology (No. 17, tie) Diabetes & Endocrinology (No. 19) Also ranked nationally were Rehabilitation, No. 21; Pulmonology and Lung Surgery, No. 21; and Ear, Nose and Throat, No. 35. Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West's "High Performing" ratings in 16 procedures and conditions represented an increase from 12 last year. Mount Sinai South Nassau increased from six to nine "High Performing" procedures and conditions. The magazine defines "High Performing" in this context as "the highest possible rating, earned by only a small minority of hospitals." Mount Sinai Morningside/Mount Sinai West specialties ranked nationally this year were: Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery (No. 17, tie) Neurology & Neurosurgery (No. 31) Diabetes & Endocrinology (No. 33) Orthopedics (No. 34) Geriatrics (No. 37) For the third year in a row, U.S. News did not include numerical rankings for the 20 hospitals on the 2025-26 Honor Roll, taking the view-with which Mount Sinai has long agreed-that numerical rankings make distinctions without a difference. U.S. News & World Report evaluates more than 4,500 medical centers nationwide in 15 specialties and 22 procedures and conditions. The Best Hospitals rankings help guide patients who need a high level of care or who have a challenging condition or extra risk because of age or multiple health problems. Criteria such as patient survival and safety data, adequacy of nurse staffing levels, and other measures largely determine the rankings in most specialties. The rankings are produced by U.S. News with RTI International, a leading research organization based in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. CBI seizes Rs 1.5 crore cash from PWD engineer arrested in bribe case Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 22:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi, Jul 29 (PTI) The CBI has seized Rs 1.60 crore from a PWD executive engineer here who was arrested while taking Rs 30,000 bribe, officials said Tuesday. Kalu Ram Meena, posted as executive engineer, Judiciary Civil Division-2, PWD, Rouse Avenue District Court Complex, allegedly demanded three per cent of the bills, to be cleared by him, as bribe from a contractor, they said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Recommended Stories Meena was arrested on Monday during a trap operation when he was taking a bribe of Rs 30,000 from the contractor who is the complainant in the case, the officials said. Searches were conducted at Delhi and Jaipur which led to recovery of Rs 1.60 crore cash as well as property documents and bank account having sufficient balance," a CBI spokesperson said in a statement. PTI ABS KVK KVK First Published: July 29, 2025, 22:15 IST News agency-feeds CBI seizes Rs 1.5 crore cash from PWD engineer arrested in bribe case Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Fake robbery busted with shop worker, 2 more arrested in Old Delhi Last Updated: July 30, 2025, 01:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi, Jul 29 (PTI) A fake robbery involving over Rs 6 lakh was exposed by police with the arrest of three men, including an employee of a Delhi shopkeeper, an officer said on Tuesday. The accused have been identified as Rahul, a 24-year-old cash collector at the shop, and his two accomplices Dharmender alias Aryan, 22, who is Rahuls friend, and Rishu Verma, 26, he said. Recommended Stories On July 26, a PCR call was received regarding a robbery. The complainant, Rahul, told police that while he was on his way to Sadar Bazar from Lahori Gate with a bag containing around Rs 7 lakh in cash, he was robbed at gunpoint near Ishwar Bhawan around 3.40 pm by three men," the officer said. Rahul also claimed that he was slashed with a blade. Police found discrepancies in his statement and the cut in his t-shirt and his arm self-inflicted, the officer added. A scan of more than 100 CCTV cameras revealed that Rahul was accompanied by two men and was seen handing over the cash bag to them near Naya Bazar before returning alone to make the PCR call. During sustained interrogation, Rahul confessed to conspiring with his childhood friend Dharmender and associate Rishu to fake the robbery and misappropriate the money collected for his employer," he said. The accused were tracked to Gauripur in Baghpat in Uttar Pradesh, from where they were arrested late Monday night while travelling in a car. The three had planned to flee to Kedarnath, the officer said. Police recovered Rs 4.14 lakh in cash from their possession, and Rs 1.5 lakh in Dharmenders bank account, and another Rs 1 lakh from his house. An additional Rs 50,000 was recovered from a taxi driver hired for the Kedarnath trip. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A mobile phone worth Rs 40,000, purchased using the stolen money, was also seized, police said. The motorcycle used in the offence, registered in the name of Dharmenders father, was impounded. PTI SSJ VN VN First Published: July 30, 2025, 01:15 IST News agency-feeds Fake robbery busted with shop worker, 2 more arrested in Old Delhi Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Nitin Gadkari conferred with Chintamanrao Deshmukh National Award Last Updated: July 30, 2025, 00:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi, Jul 29 (PTI) Union Minister Nitin Gadkari was on Tuesday conferred with the Chintamanrao Deshmukh National Award for public service here. NCP-SP supremo Sharad Pawar handed over the award, instituted by Pune-based NGO Sarhad, to Gadkari and praised the Union minister for developing a network of highways across the country. Recommended Stories Pawar praised Gadkari for his blunt talk and the knack of getting difficult projects implemented. He also highlighted the ministers popularity among members of Parliament across party lines. Pawar said a large number of MPs have expressed great confidence in Gadkaris abilities to execute projects and develop a road network in the country. The NCP-SP supremo said Gadkaris popularity among MPs stems from the fact that he does not discriminate against anyone along party lines and genuinely believes that good roads are a prerequisite for a nation to prosper. Deshmukh, who hailed from Maharashtra, was the first Indian to be appointed as the governor of the Reserve Bank of India in 1943 and also served as the finance minister from 1950 to 1956. He had famously quit as the finance minister over the Union governments plans to bifurcate the then state of Bombay into Gujarat and Maharashtra and to designate Mumbai as a union territory. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Deshmukh also served as the chairman of the University Grants Commission and as the vice chancellor of Delhi University. He died in 1982. The first Chintamanrao Deshmukh National Award was conferred on former diplomat Dyaneshwar Mulay. PTI SKU DIV DIV First Published: July 30, 2025, 00:15 IST News agency-feeds Nitin Gadkari conferred with Chintamanrao Deshmukh National Award Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Odisha to introduce tigers in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 19:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Bhubaneswar, Jul 29 (PTI) The Odisha government is planning to introduce tigers in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Bargarh district, a senior Forest department official said on Tuesday. Speaking about the revival of big cat population in Odisha on the occasion of National Tiger Day, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Wildlife Prem Kumar Jha said Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a possible site for introduction of tigers. Recommended Stories There is a plan to introduce tigers in the sanctuary, as We have received technical permission from National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to convert Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve," Jha said. The state government has formed an expert committee to study the wildlife sanctuary and submit a report marking the core area and buffer zone to make it a tiger habitation, he said. After completion of the process, we will take steps to bring the tiger to the sanctuary," he added. Stating that tiger relocation is a very difficult process, the PCCF (Wildlife) said, The relocation of tigress Sundari in Satkosia Tiger Reserve has remained unsuccessful." Last November, two tigresses Jamuna and Zeenatwere brought to Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) from Maharashtra. The inter-state tiger relocation project was 80 per cent successful as Zeenat went to Jharkhand and West Bengal and again brought back to STR. Now, both tigresses have been confined in their different territories, Jha said. In-breeding among the closed population has emerged as a looming threat to the striped predators in the protected area. Therefore, the STR authority had proposed to bring four tigerstwo males and two femalesfrom Maharashtra. After studying the behaviours of the two tigresses, steps will be taken to bring another tiger to the STR, he said. A similar move will be taken in future to bring tigers to the Satkosia Tiger Reserve, which doesnt have any tigers at present, the forest officer said. In 2018, the Odisha government had made a tiger translocation attempt at Satkosia Tiger Reserve. A tiger named Mahavir was brought from Kanha National Park and a tigress named Sundari from Bandhavgarh National Park, both in Madhya Pradesh, and released in Satkosia. While the tiger died after falling into a trap laid by poachers, the tigress was sent back to its original habitat after it allegedly killed two persons during its 30-month stay in Odisha. As per the latest census conducted by the Odisha forest department, 30 Royal Bengal Tigers were found in the state, of which 27 were found in the Similipal Tiger Reserve. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On the Tiger Day, acclaimed sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik, in collaboration with World Wide Fund for Nature-India (WWF India), has created a sand sculpture featuring a 20-ft-long tiger surrounded by 51 small tigers at the Puri beach. Pattnaik said, It is an honour to collaborate with WWF-India on Global Tiger Day to create this sand art that reflects the tigers deep connection with our forests and communities." Through my work, I aim to send a strong visual message about the importance of co-existence. The tiger is not just a symbol of powerit is a protector of our environment and it serves as a guardian of our ecosystem," he said. PTI BBM BBM RG First Published: July 29, 2025, 19:15 IST News agency-feeds Odisha to introduce tigers in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... GUANGZHOU, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Imagine feasting on a creamy pasta or a piping-hot pizza for just 20 yuan (about 2.8 U.S. dollars), or enjoying a bottle of wine for under 60 yuan. At Saizeriya, a Japanese chain of Italian eateries, all of these things are possible. Since its Chinese market debut in 2003, Saizeriya has won the hearts of Chinese diners through its diverse, wallet-friendly menus. And with a typical spend of about 50 yuan per customer, it has become a popular choice for both family meals and casual gatherings among young people. In line with China's new consumer trends, where young people seek good value and affordable, convenient meals, Saizeriya's focus on cost-effectiveness has become a key driver of its rapid growth in China. Today, China has emerged as its most important market outside of Japan, and the company is highly confident in its prospects in China, according to Noboru Nagaoka, the company's general manager of overseas business. Already boasting 500 outlets in China, Saizeriya now generates annual operating profits of approximately 290 million yuan -- triple those of its home market, Japan. Nagaoka, 62, who has worked at Saizeriya for nearly four decades, remembers the early days of the company's Chinese market venture with clarity. When Saizeriya opened its first store in Shanghai in 2003, Italian cuisine was still an unfamiliar concept to most Chinese consumers. "At that time, Chinese consumers thought Western food had to be expensive, but we wanted to prove that authentic Italian meals could also be affordable," he said. Saizeriya opened a branch in Guangzhou in 2007, and another in Beijing in 2008. In July of this year, it established a head office in south China's Guangdong Province to manage its Chinese business and standardize its menu development. "We value the Chinese market the most. Its profits have already surpassed those in Japan and its future growth potential is much greater," he said. Saizeriya is steadily expanding its footprint in China at a rate of about 15 percent each year, with plans to open 70 to 80 new branches this year. "Our first store in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, will open next year, and we believe the city's surrounding area alone has the potential to support 100 new outlets," Nagaoka noted. Adapting to local tastes has been a crucial strategy for Saizeriya's success in China. After decades of operations and adjustments, its menus and flavors have been modified significantly to suit Chinese palates. Chinese and Japanese employees collaborate to use local Chinese ingredients to make unique dishes like the spicy pasta with Sichuan pickled chili peppers. They also prefer to use sauces that cater to Chinese preferences, such as black pepper sauce, in most pasta dishes. In terms of its procurement of ingredients, the company prioritizes local supply chains, with about 90 percent of its ingredients sourced domestically in China, including all of its chicken and vegetables. Looking ahead, Nagaoka is highly optimistic about the Chinese market. With China's vast size and the growing domestic popularity of Western food like Italian cuisine, and as Chinese consumers place increasing value on their quality of life, convenience and daily comforts, he believes Saizeriya will see even greater opportunities for growth. He also sees that economic ties between China and Japan, especially in the fields of catering and retail, are growing stronger. The company's investment plans in China are advancing at a record pace. Its much-anticipated factory in Guangzhou is under construction and is expected to be completed in January 2026. Designed to meet the needs of 1,000 branches, the factory will produce ingredients exclusively for Saizeriya and enhance the competitiveness of its supply chain. The company is also considering building another factory in about five years, with an estimated investment of over 5 billion yen (about 34.2 million U.S. dollars), Nagaoka told Xinhua. Aries Horoscope Today, July 29, 2025 Written By : GaneshaGrace Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 06:10 IST Aries Daily Horoscope, July 29, 2025: Great gains await, but be cautious of betrayal. Confidence and courage will lead the way. Avoid overwork and stay grounded. Aries Horoscope Today: Astrological predictions by Chirag Daruwalla for mesha rashi on July 29 2025. (AI generated image) Aries Daily Horoscope Today, 29 July 2025: Ganesha says your financial horoscope today is excellent. You will get a chance to implement your financial plans today. You will earn a good amount of money and will be able to make good investments to further your business. Today, your business will benefit from people associated with the sales and marketing fields. Someone special or close to you may betray you. Do not share your plans and confidential information with anyone. There will be opportunities for courage and valor at work. You will be a leader in business communication. You will be successful in various subjects. Maintain your confidence and avoid rumors. You will achieve big goals by being active and working together. You will be involved in public activities, and you will be confident. Your personality will shine, and your food will be attractive. Enthusiasm and morale will be high, which will keep health better. Recommended Stories Aries Horoscope Today, July 29, 2025 Positive: Problems related to a family member will be resolved, and you will make some important decisions according to your ability without stress, which will also prove beneficial for you. Some special plans will also be made for the family. Negative: Efforts being made for any special work may fail. To remain positive, spend time with good books and good people. Understanding the feelings of others and respecting them will strengthen relationships. Business: Business work will improve, and there will be good profit too. Businessmen should pay more attention to wholesale work instead of retail. At this time, do any transactions only with a proper bill, because there is a possibility of any kind of fraud or misunderstanding. Financial: You will get benefits in the coming days from the thoughtful decisions taken today. Failures in business cannot be ruled out; Your challenge is to rise above them. However, it will be in your best interest not to let these setbacks hinder your long-term business interests. Love: Your responsibility towards the family will maintain a happy atmosphere at home. Love relationships will also deepen. Health: Make sure to take some time for your rest. Excessive work and fatigue can affect your health. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Number: 1 (The author Chirag Daruwalla is the son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla). About the Author Chirag Daruwalla Chirag Daruwalla, a renowned Indian astrologer with 18+ years of experience, provides expert guidance in career, health, finance, business, and more. He combines Vedic and Western astrology, I-Ching, Tarot, Num... Read More Chirag Daruwalla, a renowned Indian astrologer with 18+ years of experience, provides expert guidance in career, health, finance, business, and more. He combines Vedic and Western astrology, I-Ching, Tarot, Num... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 06:10 IST News astrology Aries Horoscope Today, July 29, 2025 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Delhi: Air India Issues Advisory As Heavy Rainfall Disrupts Flights, Full Details Inside Published By : ANI Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 11:54 IST Passengers urged to check flight status as IMD predicts a week-long spell of intense rainfall across India Air India. (File photo) As rain lashes in Delhi, Air India on Tuesday issued a travel advisory, informing that flight operations to and from the national capital may be impacted. The airline suggested that passengers check their flight status on their official website before heading to the airport. Recommended Stories Gusty wind and rain may impact flight operations to and from Delhi this morning. Please check your flight status before heading to the airport and allow extra time for your journey," Air India posted on X. Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms affected several regions of Delhi, providing a respite from the prevailing humid weather conditions on Tuesday morning. IMD predicts heavy rainfall across India until August 4. Northwest India, including East Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh, is expected to experience extremely heavy rainfall on July 29, with heavy showers in Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Haryana. West India, including Konkan and Gujarat, will see isolated heavy rain on July 29 and light to moderate showers for 6-7 days. Northeast India, including Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, is expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall. East and Central India, including Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, will experience isolated heavy rain and thunderstorms. South Peninsular India, including Kerala and Coastal Karnataka, is expected to experience heavy rain on July 29-30, accompanied by strong winds (40-50 kmph). Light to moderate rain and thunderstorms are likely across most regions for the next week. According to IMD, it is forecasted that there will be fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over Northwest, Northeast, and Eastern India during the next few days. Scattered to fairly widespread rainfall is also likely over Central and Peninsular India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over East Rajasthan on Wednesday (i.e July 30). Heavy rainfall is also very likely at isolated locations in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, Jharkhand, Kerala, Mahe, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Sikkim, and West Rajasthan on Wednesday. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On July 30, Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) are very likely at isolated places in Bihar, Gangetic West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Muzaffarabad, as well as Jharkhand. Additionally, thunderstorms with lightning are expected at isolated locations in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Vidarbha. About the Author Samreen Pall Samreen Pall, Senior Sub-Editor at News18, is a Computer Science graduate but a writer at heart, Samreen has one motto that she swears by: 'Everything is dull and useless if it has no drama in it.' This motto c... Read More Samreen Pall, Senior Sub-Editor at News18, is a Computer Science graduate but a writer at heart, Samreen has one motto that she swears by: 'Everything is dull and useless if it has no drama in it.' This motto c... Read More Get the latest updates on car and bike launches in India including reviews, prices, specs, and performance. Stay informed with breaking auto industry news , EV policies, and more. You can also download the News18 App to stay updated. First Published: July 29, 2025, 11:54 IST News auto Delhi: Air India Issues Advisory As Heavy Rainfall Disrupts Flights, Full Details Inside Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Entrepreneur Rohit Boda Buys Rs 6 Crore McLaren 750S Spider On Birthday Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: July 28, 2025, 19:35 IST McLaren Mumbai shared a video of the grand delivery on its official Instagram handle, giving fans a glimpse into the celebratory moment Known for his passion for luxury automobiles, Boda chose the Elite Ice Silver shade for his McLaren. (Photo Source: Instagram) Rohit Boda, a businessman and director at JB Boda Group, is one of Indias leading names in reinsurance broking. He has caught the attention of car enthusiasts and business circles with his extravagant birthday gift to himself: the newly launched McLaren 750S Spider. Known for his passion for luxury automobiles, Boda chose the Elite Ice Silver shade for his McLaren, a rare and eye-catching colour that perfectly matches the sleek design and high-performance nature of the supercar. The vehicle was delivered through McLaren Mumbai, marking it as the third McLaren to be handed over in just one week, a testament to the growing popularity of the brand in India. Recommended Stories View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maitri Boda (@maitriboda) View this post on Instagram A post shared by McLaren Mumbai (@mclarenmumbai_official) McLaren Mumbai shared a video of the grand delivery on its official Instagram handle, giving fans a glimpse into the celebratory moment. The video captures Rohit walking into the showroom with his family and close friends, greeted by the sight of the supercar under a satin veil, illuminated and decorated for the occasion. As he unveils the car, the excitement in the room is palpable. After receiving the key to his new machine, Rohit posed for pictures with his family beside the car, capturing the milestone moment with loved ones. Know More About McLaren 750S Spider McLarens 750S Spider is among the most anticipated supercars in India, combining cutting-edge engineering with luxurious craftsmanship. Priced at Rs 5.91 crore (ex-showroom), the convertible is a part of the brands elite portfolio alongside models like the Artura, Artura Spider and the McLaren GTS. The 750S Spider stands out not just for its aggressive performance but also for its personalisation options. Customers can choose from four unique exterior colour themesStandard, Racing Inspired, Elite and MSO. Rohit Boda opted for the Elite palette, suggesting a taste for exclusivity and sophistication. While McLaren offers three distinct interior trims for the 750S SpiderFull Alcantara, Performance and TechLuxit remains unconfirmed which one Boda selected. However, past Instagram uploads hint that he may have chosen the Full Alcantara package. This option is known for its sporty yet refined appeal, featuring soft-touch materials, ergonomic comfort and an overall immersive driving environment that matches the vehicles performance-driven identity. The 750S Spider is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine (M840T) that churns out an incredible 750 PS of power and 800 Nm of torque. This mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive beast is mated to a 7-speed transmission and promises breathtaking acceleration. The car can rocket from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds, while the 200 km/h mark is achieved in a mere 7.3 seconds. With a top speed of 332 km/h, this convertible is not just about looks, it delivers pure and unfiltered speed. Inside Rohit Bodas Million-Dollar Car Collection View this post on Instagram A post shared by McLaren Mumbai (@mclarenmumbai_official) Rohit Bodas McLaren 750S Spider joins an already impressive fleet of high-end vehicles. His multi-crore car garage includes a Ferrari 296 GTS, Lamborghini Huracan Spyder, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, BMW iX and a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. While some vehicles in his collectionlike the Maybach and the iXare appreciated for their comfort and practicality on congested Mumbai streets, others, such as the Ferrari and Lamborghini, showcase his love for high-performance speed machines. Interestingly, despite his current taste in luxury cars, Rohits very first vehicle was a Maruti Suzuki Swiftshowing how far his automotive journey has come. Two particularly noteworthy entries in Rohits collection are the Ferrari 296 GTS and the Lamborghini Huracan EVO RWD Spyder. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rohit Boda (@rohitboda) Launched in India in May 2023 at an ex-showroom price of Rs 6.24 crore, the Ferrari 296 GTS is the convertible sibling of the 296 GTB. It runs on a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6-based hybrid powertrain producing a jaw-dropping 830 hp and 740 Nm of torque. The car accelerates from 0100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds and delivers an electrifying driving experience. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rohit Boda (@rohitboda) top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On the other hand, the Lamborghini Huracan EVO RWD Spyderlaunched in 2021 at Rs 3.54 crorefeatures a 5.2-litre naturally aspirated V10 engine, producing 610 hp and 560 Nm. It achieves 0100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 324 km/h, making it a thrilling ride on open roads. Both vehicles reflect Rohits deep appreciation for automotive engineering and performance. Rohit Boda is more than just a car enthusiast, hes also an emerging social media personality. With nearly 10,000 followers on Instagram, he consistently shares glimpses of his luxury lifestyle, supercar collection and entrepreneurial journey. His content resonates with fans who admire a blend of high-speed thrills and business success. Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Get the latest updates on car and bike launches in India including reviews, prices, specs, and performance. Stay informed with breaking auto industry news , EV policies, and more. You can also download the News18 App to stay updated. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: July 28, 2025, 19:29 IST News auto Entrepreneur Rohit Boda Buys Rs 6 Crore McLaren 750S Spider On Birthday Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... TCS Layoffs Just The Beginning? Experts Warn Of More IT Job Cuts Ahead Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 07:55 IST Experts say the fact that TCS historically seen as one of the most stable employers has taken this step signals a broader industry shift After TCS, More IT Job Cuts Are Expected? IT Layoffs 2025: Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) announcement of laying off 12,000 employees roughly 2% of its global workforce has sent ripples across the Indian IT sector, with industry experts cautioning that the move could trigger similar actions from other major players. According to TCS CEO and MD K Krithivasan, the phased job cuts will take place throughout FY26. The decision, which marks one of the largest retrenchment drives in TCSs history, comes amid multiple structural challenges ranging from margin pressures and skill mismatches to disruption from artificial intelligence (AI). TCS currently employs over 6.13 lakh people. Recommended Stories As of July 28, TCS shares closed 1.61% lower at Rs 3,083.95 on the BSE following the announcement. If TCS is doing it, it becomes more acceptable across the board," said Ashutosh Sharma, VP & Research Director at Forrester, in a statement to Moneycontrol. Every IT organisation has launched margin improvement initiatives. Margins are falling as managed services offer thinner profitability." Even HCLTech, in its Q1 FY26 earnings call, confirmed a talent ramp-down" as part of a broader global restructuring strategy. CEO and MD C. Vijayakumar stated that this process has already begun in certain international markets and will be clarified further as plans are finalized. This is not a micro-level issue; this is a macro concern," added Pareekh Jain, CEO of Pareekh Consulting and EIIRTrend, to Moneycontrol. After TCS, more companies who werent even considering layoffs may now see it as a viable option to manage headcount. It wont stop at just 2%." According to Jain, recent acquisitions made by TCSs peers like Infosys, HCLTech, and Wipro may have added excess headcount, which could now come under review. Staffing expert Sriram Rajagopal, founder of Diamondpick, pointed out that the biggest impact would be felt at the mid- and senior levels. After the pandemic, many were promoted quickly to offer growth opportunities. Now, with generative AI tools proving their efficiency, companies may not need as many in these layers," he explained. When margins are under pressure, the focus shifts to trimming non-billable roles." In a note to clients, Citi Research observed that TCS, despite being a relatively lower paymaster, has traditionally had better-than-average attrition thanks to job stability and clear career growth. These layoffs could dent employee morale in the short term and might lead to execution gaps," Citi analysts wrote. Longer term, it could result in increased attrition, similar to the trend seen at Cognizant between 20202022." Behind the Cuts: Margin Stress, AI & Changing Models The layoffs follow TCSs recent update to its internal HR policy, mandating 225 billable days annually and restricting bench time to 35 days. While Krithivasan emphasized in a recent interview that the layoffs were not directly tied to AI or margin pressures, analysts disagree. As per Phil Fersht, CEO of HFS Research: AI is eating into the people-heavy service delivery model. Large firms like TCS are being forced to rebalance their workforces to protect margins and offer competitive pricing. Clients are demanding 2030% rate reductions." Fersht told the news outlet that the fact that TCS historically seen as one of the most stable employers has taken this step signals a broader industry shift. Citi Research further noted that multiple factors likely drove TCSs decision including productivity pressures due to AI, a decline in demand for certain legacy skills, slow redeployment, and ongoing margin strain amid tech transformation. Krithivasan explained: We have been calling out new technologies, particularly AI and changing operating models. Some roles are no longer feasible to redeploy. This decision, though difficult, is meant to make us more agile and future-ready." He added that the job cuts are primarily at mid and senior levels, and emphasized the companys investment in reskilling and career development for employees. Still, we found certain roles couldnt align with the direction we are headed." Culture, Overhiring & Forecasting Challenges Forresters Sharma further told Moneycontrol that TCS has been margin-focused for years, setting ambitious profitability targets well above the industry average. He pointed out that TCS, like other IT giants, ramped up hiring based on bullish forecasts, which didnt fully materialize. TCSs Chief Human Resources Officer Milind Lakkad echoed this at the Q1 earnings call on July 10: Hiring should not be linked to quarterly growth. We had hired heavily early on and then faced business challenges, which created a mismatch." HFS Researchs Fersht believes this trend will last for at least a year as IT companies train junior employees in AI tools while phasing out those who cannot align with the emerging services-as-software" model. The new services industry is fundamentally different fewer people, but sharper skills tied to core AI platforms," he explained. What the Data Says top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all According to UnearthInsight, the IT sector is grappling with both demand slowdown and AI-driven disruption. Growth that used to range from 710% is now closer to 35%, while reskilling has proven difficult for many experienced professionals. This is a clear case of skill mismatch. Either TCS is offering services the market doesnt want, or its workforce lacks the skills that are in demand," said Gaurav Vasu, founder and CEO at UnearthInsight, told Moneycontrol. As the industry transitions to AI-aligned delivery models and clients push for leaner, more cost-effective deals, TCSs move may only be the beginning of a broader reshuffle in Indias $245 billion IT services landscape. About the Author Aparna Deb Aparna Deb is a Subeditor and writes for the business vertical of News18.com. She has a nose for news that matters. She is inquisitive and curious about things. Among other things, financial markets, economy, a... Read More Aparna Deb is a Subeditor and writes for the business vertical of News18.com. She has a nose for news that matters. She is inquisitive and curious about things. Among other things, financial markets, economy, a... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 07:55 IST News business economy TCS Layoffs Just The Beginning? Experts Warn Of More IT Job Cuts Ahead Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Aditya Infotech IPO Subscribed 2.17x On Day 1: Should You Apply? Check Price, GMP, Review Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 17:58 IST Aditya Infotech IPO GMP Today: Its grey market premium currently stands at 40.44%, indicating strong listing gains for investors. Aditya Infotech IPO: Check Subscription Status, GMP & Other Details. Aditya Infotech IPO GMP: The initial public offering of Aditya Infotech, which offers video security and surveillance products under CP Plus brand, opened for public subscription today, Tuesday, July 29. It will remain open for bidding for three days till July 31. The price band of the mainboard IPO, which plans to raise Rs 1,300 crore, has been fixed in the range of Rs 640 to Rs 675 apiece. On the first day of bidding on Tuesday, the issue received a 2.17 times subscription, garnering bids for 2,30,85,854 shares as against the 1,06,41,266 shares on offer. The retail and NII participation stood at 6.93x and 3.33x, respectively. The QIB category has received a 0.01x subscription. Recommended Stories The IPOs grey market premium currently stands at 40.44%, indicating strong listing gains for investors. Aditya Infotech IPO Key Dates The IPO will remain open for public subscription between July 19, 2025, and July 31, 2025. The share allotment will likely be finalised on August 1, and the company is expected to be listed on both BSE and NSE on August 5. Aditya Infotech IPO Price & Lot Size The price band of the IPO has been fixed in the range of Rs 640 to Rs 675 per share. For investors, the minimum lot size for the IPO is 22. It means investors will have to apply for a minimum of 22 shares or in multiple thereof. So, retail investors require a minimum capital of Rs 14,080 to apply for the IPO. Aditya Infotech IPO GMP According to market observers, unlisted shares of Aditya Infotech Ltd are currently trading at Rs 948 against the upper IPO price of Rs 675. It means a grey market premium or GMP of Rs 273, which is 40.44% over its issue price, indicating strong listing gains. The GMP is based on market sentiments and keeps changing. Grey market premium indicates investors readiness to pay more than the issue price. Aditya Infotech IPO: Should You Apply? Most brokerages have recommended a Subscribe rating for long-term investors, on the back of Aditya Infotechs market position and industry tailwinds. However, a few have raised challenges on valuation and supplier dependency. Anand Rathi Shares & Stock Brokers offered a Subscribe for long-term view, calling Aditya Infotech Indias leading provider of video security and surveillance products" with a market share of 20.8% in FY25. The brokerage noted its broad product portfolio and minimal competition. It sees strong growth potential through compliance with emerging cybersecurity regulations and next-gen tech upgrades. Ventura Securities maintained a Subscribe stance, stating that Aditya Infotech is poised to benefit from tailwinds such as Smart Cities and Digital India. The residential segment alone is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.1 per cent in revenue from FY24 to FY29," it said, praising the companys distribution network and wide-ranging product suite. SMIFS echoed similar optimism, recommending investors Subscribe to the issue. Aditya Infotechs dominant market position, scalable business model, and long-term growth potential," along with strategic partnerships and a focus on innovation, position it strongly in Indias evolving surveillance sector. Swastika Investmart also suggested a Subscribe rating, pointing to the companys expanding Ebitda margin (8.27% in FY25), nationwide reach, and sector growth. Based on recent financials and dependence on key suppliers like Dahua, the issue appears reasonably priced but carries concentration risks," it warned, suggesting investors apply for both long-term and listing gains. Aditya Birla Money has given a straightforward Subscribe recommendation. It emphasized the IPOs goal of reducing debt and cited the impact of the new STQC norms. At the upper price-band, the issue is valued at 43x P/E AIL with its manufacturing muscle & strong brand image is best placed to benefit from the tailwinds created," the note said. Lakshmishree Investment & Securities also leaned positive with a Subscribe for long-term rating. It acknowledged risks such as reliance on China and revenue concentration but noted that with scalable growth and strong fundamentals, we rate this IPO a Subscribe for long-term wealth creation." The brokerage also highlighted the companys AI-powered, Make in India-aligned product line" and its strategic manufacturing hub in Kadapa. Canara Bank Securities has given a Subscribe with caution rating. It highlighted the companys leadership position, scalable business model, and presence across enterprise and consumer segments through the CP PLUS brand. The IPO is valued at a P/E of 20.44 times based on FY25 post exceptional earnings. We recommend a SUBSCRIBE rating for well-informed investors with a medium to long-term horizon," it said. SBI Securities, however, has issued an Avoid call. While acknowledging the benefits from new quality norms and backward integration plans, the brokerage flagged high valuations and weak cash flows. It trades at FY25 P/E of 77 times, which we believe is exorbitant, in the backdrop of mid-teen return ratios and weak operating cash flows," it noted, also citing comparability issues due to the AIL-Dixon JV consolidation. Aditya Infotech IPO: More Info The companys IPO is a combination of a fresh issue of equity shares worth Rs 500 crore and an Offer For Sale (OFS) of shares valued at Rs 800 crore by promoters. Proceeds from the fresh issue to the tune of Rs 375 crore have been earmarked for payment of debt, and besides, a portion will be used for general corporate purposes. This anchor portion witnessed participation from domestic and foreign institutional investors, including Government of Singapore, Monetary Authority of Singapore, HDFC Mutual Fund, SBI Mutual Fund, Goldman Sachs, Nomura, Ashoka Whiteoak India Opportunities Fund, and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, according to a circular uploaded on the BSE website. As per the circular, Aditya Infotech has allotted 86.26 lakh equity shares to 54 funds at Rs 675 apiece. This aggregates the transaction size to Rs 582.3 crore. As of March 2024, the companys total borrowings stood at around Rs 405 crore, according to its draft papers. Aditya Infotech offers a comprehensive range of advanced video security and surveillance products, technologies and solutions for enterprise and consumer segments under CP Plus brand. In addition, the company offers solutions and services such as fully integrated security systems and security-as-a-service directly and through its distribution network. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The company announced that 75 per cent of the offer size has been reserved for qualified institutional buyers, 15 per cent for non-institutional investors and the remaining 10 per for retail investors. ICICI Securities and IIFL Securities are the book-running lead managers to the issue. Aditya Infotech is expected to list on the bourses on August 5. About the Author Mohammad Haris Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at news18.com. He writes on various issues related to personal finance, markets, economy and companies. Having over a decade of experience in financial journalism, Haris h... Read More Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at news18.com. He writes on various issues related to personal finance, markets, economy and companies. Having over a decade of experience in financial journalism, Haris h... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 10:47 IST News business ipo Aditya Infotech IPO Subscribed 2.17x On Day 1: Should You Apply? Check Price, GMP, Review Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Justice, Small Sense Of Solace': Pahalgam Survivor's Wife After Terrorists Killed Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Shankhyaneel Sarkar Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 16:42 IST Samir Guha's wife felt relieved after terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack were eliminated. She thanked the Army, police, and government for their swift action. Sarbari Guha, wife of slain tourist Samir Guha, sits beside her husband's photograph at their home in West Bengal. She says her family found some solace after the terrorists behind the Pahalgam attack were neutralised, as announced in Parliament. (IMAGE: NEWS18/KAMALIKA SENGUPTA) Tears welled up in Sarbari Guhas eyes as she watched the Parliament proceedings on television on Tuesday. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had just announced that the terrorists responsible for the Pahalgam attack had been killed in an encounter. Among those they murdered was her husband, Samir Guha, a tourist from West Bengal who had gone to Kashmir with his family on what was meant to be a happy vacation. Speaking to News18, Sarbari Guha said, I will never forget what happened to me and my family, but Im truly thankful to our Army, police and security forces. They gave us justice. These terrorists were dangerous, inhuman people." Recommended Stories She remembered the moment her husbands lifeless body was brought home. A memory, she said, no wife or daughter should ever have to live with. Since that day, I had just one wish. That those who killed my husband should be killed," she said. Yesterday, there were reports that the Pahalgam terrorists had been killed. But when I heard the Home Minister confirm it in Parliament, I felt like I finally received some justice. There is some solace now, for me and for my daughter." Guha also thanked the Indian security forces. I want to thank the government for being firm. But my biggest salute is to our armed forces. They took on a dangerous task and did it with courage. We are safe because of them." She then described how their peaceful family holiday turned into a nightmare. They asked me if I could read the Kalma. Suddenly, masked men appeared. They had video cameras on their heads. They opened fire without warning. They shot my husband right in front of me and my daughter. After killing him, they said, Go and tell Modi." The government has replied to them in their own language," she said. Those terrorists got what they deserved. All of us who lost someone will never forget what happened. The pain will stay forever, but at least now, justice has spoken." Samir Guha had always loved to travel and Kashmir was among the places he admired but that trip became his last. He only wanted to show his daughter the beauty of Kashmir. He never came back," Sarbari said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all She ended the discussion with a plea and a warning. No other family should have to go through this. Terrorism must end. The world should know what they did to us". About the Author Kamalika Sengupta Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and womens issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East... Read More Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and womens issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East... Read More Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. to addas your preferred news source on First Published: July 29, 2025, 16:21 IST News cities kolkata-news 'Justice, Small Sense Of Solace': Pahalgam Survivor's Wife After Terrorists Killed Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Dance Bar, Sand Mining Allegations: Anil Parab Meets CM With Complaints Against Minister Kadam Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 19:45 IST Yogesh Kadam says, "I have cleared my stand to my leadership. I don't pay attention to who is meeting whom. We have given that space on rent." According to Parab, CM Fadnavis (above) has assured him that the matter will be thoroughly investigated. (File) Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) faction leader Anil Parab has demanded the resignation of Maharashtras Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam, over serious allegations related to an illegal dance bar and sand mining. Speaking to the media, Parab claimed that a dance bar is being operated in the name of the ministers mother, tarnishing the image of the state and the government. He also said that he has submitted all the related evidence directly to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and urged immediate action against Kadam. According to Parab, CM Fadnavis has assured him that the matter will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate action will be taken based on the evidence. When asked about the meeting between Parab and Fadnavis, Kadam replied, I have cleared my stand to my leadership. I dont pay attention to who is meeting whom. We have given that space on rent. I am only focusing on my work and nothing else." Recommended Stories Parab reiterated that he had earlier raised the issue of the controversial dance bar during the session, stating it was not only illegal but being run in the name of Kadams mother. This is not just a matter of moral misconduct, it directly damages the reputation of the government," Parab said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He also highlighted multiple police raids on the said dance bar specifically on August 10 and May 28 in 2023, and May 31 in 2025. During these raids, police reportedly detained 22 bar girls, 22 customers, and seized large amounts of cash. These establishments have a record of repeated violations. As per the law, the owner is held accountable for any illegal activity. Therefore, Minister Kadam must resign," Parab demanded. In addition to the dance bar issue, Parab also submitted alleged evidence regarding illegal sand mining reportedly linked to Kadams aides. He claimed that the extracted sand is being dumped on the premises of Yogita Dental College in Khed, and a man named Akit Mukadam has been actively involved in the operations. Parab also submitted video footage allegedly showing a transport department official using an e-challan machine to collect unauthorised payments. He further pointed out that the Bombay High Court has issued a show-cause notice in the sand mining case, noting that no permission was granted for the excavation. I have given a copy of the courts direction as evidence. Now it is up to the Chief Minister to examine the material and take a call," Parab said. About the Author Mayuresh Ganapatye Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa... Read More Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 19:45 IST News mumbai-news Dance Bar, Sand Mining Allegations: Anil Parab Meets CM With Complaints Against Minister Kadam Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Mumbai's New Worry This Monsoon: What Are Brain-Affecting Tapeworm Infections? How Are They Caused? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 30, 2025, 10:32 IST Mumbai Monsoon May Trigger Brain-Affecting Tapeworm Infections: Neurocysticercosis is a serious brain infection caused by the larval form of the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium) According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the CDC, neurocysticercosis is a preventable parasitic disease. (AI generated) Amid the monsoon, Mumbais doctors have issued a warning against brain-affecting tapeworm infections or neurocysticercosis. A hospital in Mumbai has issued an advisory stating that an increase in tapeworm infections has been observed in many parts of the country, particularly in metropolitan cities, in recent days. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the CDC, it is a preventable parasitic disease. But it remains common in areas with poor sanitation and a lack of awareness. Recommended Stories What is neurocysticercosis or brain-affecting tapeworm? Neurocysticercosis is a serious brain infection caused by the larval form of the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium). Its common in areas with poor sanitation and where pork is eaten. What are the causes of neurocysticercosis? You get neurocysticercosis by ingesting Taenia solium eggs, not from eating undercooked pork (thats how people get the adult tapeworm, which is different). Main causes: Not washing hands after using the toilet. Contaminated food or water with tapeworm eggs from human feces. Close contact with a person who has an intestinal tapeworm and poor hygiene Humans spread the eggs to other humans not pigs. Why is Mumbai monsoon a cause for concern for brain-affecting tapeworm? Heavy rain often floods sewage systems, leading to mixing of human feces with water sources. This increases the risk of ingesting water or food contaminated with Taenia solium eggs (from human feces). In many rural and urban slum areas, toilets overflow or open defecation increases during the monsoon. Unhygienic conditions favour the spread of parasitic eggs via dirty hands, food, or surfaces. People tend to eat hot street foods during the monsoon, but these are often prepared in unsanitary environments with contaminated water. If the cook is an asymptomatic tapeworm carrier with poor hygiene, they can spread eggs through their hands. Leafy vegetables or raw foods washed in flood-contaminated water may carry T. solium eggs. If eaten raw or undercooked, this increases infection risk. Monsoon brings a general rise in parasitic and water-borne diseases, including amoebiasis, giardiasis, and bacterial infections, which can weaken the immune system, making neurocysticercosis harder to fight off if contracted. What are the symptoms of neurocysticercosis? Symptoms vary depending on where the cysts are in the brain and how many there are. Common symptoms: Seizures (most common) Headaches Nausea/vomiting Confusion Vision problems Hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain) Stroke-like symptoms Sometimes no symptoms at all (until years later) How is neurocysticercosis diagnosed? Diagnosing neurocysticercosis (NCC) involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging such as CT or MRI scan, and lab tests such as blood or CSF. What is the treatment for neurocysticercosis? Treatment depends on the number and location of cysts, whether the cysts are active or dead and severity of symptoms. Main treatments: Anti-parasitic drugs such as Albendazole or Praziquantel to kill the larvae; anti-inflammatory drugs or steroids such as dexamethasone to reduce brain swelling; anti-seizure medications to control seizures; surgery in severe cases to remove cysts or treat hydrocephalus. Dos to prevent brain-affecting tapeworm infection or neurocysticercosis Wash hands thoroughly with soap before eating or preparing food Wash hands after using the toilet Drink clean, safe water Eat well-cooked pork (kills cysts but remember, this prevents intestinal tapeworm, not neurocysticercosis directly) Keep nails trimmed and clean Deworm individuals in at-risk populations. Donts to prevent brain-affecting tapeworm infection or neurocysticercosis Eat food prepared by someone with poor hygiene Drink untreated water Eat raw or undercooked pork top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Ignore seizures or neurological symptoms. With Agency Inputs About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 12:05 IST News cities mumbai-news Mumbai's New Worry This Monsoon: What Are Brain-Affecting Tapeworm Infections? How Are They Caused? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Time Reset: Delhi Women Can Now Legally Work Night Shifts In Shops And Offices Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 30, 2025, 01:35 IST Stringent measures will be implemented to ensure womens security during night shifts, including transportation facilities, comprehensive CCTV surveillance (AI generated photo: The move will increase womens participation in the workforce while also boosting Ease of Doing Business in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.) Women in Delhi will now be able to work in night shifts (247) in shops and commercial establishments as part of the city governments efforts to revive nightlife. The move will increase womens participation in the workforce while also boosting Ease of Doing Business in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said while announcing the landmark decision. Recommended Stories She emphasised that this policy would play a pivotal role in establishing Delhi as a 247 business hub and underscores the governments commitment to womens empowerment and economic independence. The proposal will soon be sent to the Lieutenant Governor for approval, following prior discussions on the matter. To implement this decision, exemptions are being made under the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, 1954," she said. Why Women Couldnt Work In Night In Delhi? Currently, Sections 14, 15, and 16 of the Act prohibit women from working between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. during summers and between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. during winters. The forthcoming amendment will remove these restrictions, thereby enabling women to work night shifts across the city. Womens Safety In Delhi Highlighting the safety framework, the Chief Minister stated that stringent measures will be implemented to ensure womens security during night shifts, including compulsory transportation facilities, comprehensive CCTV surveillance, and the deployment of adequate female security personnel. She noted that similar permissions are already in place in states such as Haryana, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. The Chief Minister reaffirmed that womens welfare is at the top of the governments agenda and that multiple initiatives are being undertaken to ensure the economic advancement of working women. Will Women Be Safe Working At Night? The Delhi government has mandated all establishments to follow a comprehensive set of conditions to safeguard women working in night shifts. The women need to provide consent to their employers to get the night shifts. The workplaces have been asked to have CCTV surveillance, female security guards, and transport facilities. Each establishment must also constitute an Internal Complaints Committee under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act. Furthermore, restrooms, toilets, lockers, and other basic amenities must be provided, she said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Additional conditions include mandatory electronic payment of wages (bank/ECS), provision of all statutory benefits, including ESI, bonus, provident fund, as well as weekly offs and overtime compensation. (with IANS inputs) About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 First Published: July 29, 2025, 22:36 IST News new-delhi-news Time Reset: Delhi Women Can Now Legally Work Night Shifts In Shops And Offices Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... CBSE Class 10, 12 Supplementary Result 2025 Date: How To Check At cbse.gov.in? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 18:09 IST The CBSE Supplementary Exam 2025 results are likely to be declared in the first week of August. Students are advised to keep checking the official website for the latest updates. This year's CBSE supplementary exams were held in July. (Representative/File) CBSE Class 10, 12 Supplementary Result 2025 Date: Lakhs of students who appeared for the 10th and 12th supplementary examinations of the Central Board of Secondary Education are eagerly awaiting the results. The CBSE 10th and 12th Supplementary Exam 2025 results will be announced soon on the official website, cbse.gov.in. Students who failed in one or two subjects of the CBSE Board 10th or 12th examination take the compartment exams. This years CBSE supplementary exams were held in July. The CBSE 10th supplementary exams took place from July 15 to 22, 2025, while the CBSE 12th supplementary exam was conducted on a single day, July 15. Passing the CBSE supplementary exam allows students to save a year from being wasted. If the CBSE 10th and 12th supplementary results for 2025 are released on time, students can complete the admission process for the next class without any delays. Recommended Stories The CBSE Board has not yet announced a specific date or time for the supplementary exam results of 2025. According to media reports, the CBSE 10th and 12th results for 2025 may be declared in the first week of August. Students are advised to keep checking the official website for the latest updates. To expedite the checking process of the CBSE supplementary exam papers, the board conducted all the exams in a single shift. Students are cautioned against believing any fake news related to government results. How To Check CBSE Supplementary Result 2025? Step 1- To check CBSE Supplementary Exam Result 2025, one has to visit the official website cbse.gov.in or results.cbse.nic.in . Step 2- Click on the link Supplementary Result 2025 on the home page . Step 3- Now select your class (10th or 12th). Step 4- Enter details like roll number, school code and date of birth. Step 5- Click on the submit button, your result will open on the screen. Step 6- Save the result in PDF and take a printout of it. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all CBSE Supplementary Result 2025: Whats Next After passing the CBSE Board 10th/12th Supplementary Examination 2025, the school will provide your updated mark sheet. With this, you can apply for admission in college or next class. At the same time, if a student fails in CBSE Compartment Exam 2025, then he will have to appear for the examination again in the next academic session. Such students can also appear for the board examination through NIOS if they wish. As soon as the CBSE result is released, the link will be available first on the official website. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 18:04 IST News education-career CBSE Class 10, 12 Supplementary Result 2025 Date: How To Check At cbse.gov.in? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Delhi Govt To Hold Entrance Test For Admission To 33 CM SHRI Schools For Classes 6 To 8 Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 11:49 IST The Delhi government will conduct an entrance test for Class 6 to 8 admissions in 33 CM SHRI schools, with applications open until August 15. Delhi govt announces entrance test for Class 68 admissions in 33 CM SHRI model schools. The Delhi government has announced that an entrance examination will be conducted for admissions to Classes 6 to 8 in 33 of the 75 newly shortlisted CM SHRI schools for the academic session 202526. The Directorate of Education (DoE) has issued detailed guidelines and named the entrance exam the CM SHRI Schools Admission Test 2025. Recommended Stories The CM SHRI schools, which have been designated as Specified Category institutions under Section 2 of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, aim to transform existing government schools into model institutions. These schools will incorporate modern infrastructure and innovative teaching methods aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. According to the DoE guidelines, the admission test will follow a fair, transparent and merit-based selection process." Only students currently residing in Delhi and enrolled in Classes 6, 7 or 8 in any recognised Delhi-based school during the 202526 session will be eligible to apply. At least 50 per cent of the total seats in each CM SHRI school will be reserved for students enrolled in government or government-aided schools in Delhi, including institutions under the DoE, MCD, NDMC, Kendriya Vidyalayas, and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas. In line with the governments reservation policies, a relaxation of 5 per cent in the eligibility marks will be provided to students from Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Other Backward Class (OBC) non-creamy layer categories, as well as Children With Special Needs (CWSN). The application process for the entrance test will be conducted online. The registration window will open on July 30 and remain active until August 15. Admit cards for eligible candidates will be released on August 23, while the entrance test is scheduled to be held on August 30 from 11 am to 1:30 pm. As per the guidelines, the test will be an OMR-based, objective-type examination with no provision for negative marking. It will be conducted in both Hindi and English and will assess candidates across five sections: Hindi, English, General Awareness, Mental Ability, and Numerical Aptitude. The total duration of the exam will be 150 minutes, with additional time allotted for CWSN candidates as per prevailing norms. The results of the entrance test will be declared on September 10, and all admissions will be finalised by September 15. The DoE has also confirmed that test centres will be established across various schools under its jurisdiction to ensure easy accessibility for students from all parts of the city. The CM SHRI schools are expected to be inaugurated in September, an official said, as preparations for their operationalisation are underway. The initiative, announced earlier this year, aims to provide high-quality, future-ready education" in Delhis government schools. Earlier, Education Minister Ashish Sood had said that the government had provisionally shortlisted 75 schools to be developed under the CM SHRI scheme. Modelled after the Centres PM SHRI schools, these institutions will follow the NEP 2020 and implement the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023. Officials added that these schools are being built with an emphasis on sustainability, designed to operate as zero-waste and solar-powered campuses. They will feature AI-enabled libraries, smart classrooms equipped with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) tools, biometric attendance systems, smartboards, and robotics laboratories to foster innovation and creativity among students. ALSO READ: COMEDK 2025 Seat Allotment Result: Counselling Round 1 List Out At comedk.org, Details Here In another major shift, the Delhi government is phasing out the Delhi Board of School Education (DBSE). All schools currently affiliated with DBSE will now be transitioned to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta had earmarked 100 crore for the development of CM SHRI schools in her budget speech earlier this year. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 11:49 IST News education-career Delhi Govt To Hold Entrance Test For Admission To 33 CM SHRI Schools For Classes 6 To 8 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... DYK Shailesh Jejurikar, First Indian CEO Of P&G, Studied At Mumbai University & IIM Lucknow Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 15:40 IST Born in Mumbai, Jejurikar earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Mumbai University and later completed his MBA at the Indian Institute of Management Lucknow in 1989. DYK Shailesh Jejurikar joined P&G in July 1989 as an Assistant Brand Manager for Personal Health Care in India. (Image: News18 Hindi) On January 1, 2026, Shailesh Jejurikar will become President and Chief Executive Officer of Procter & Gamble (P&G), succeeding Jon Moeller. P&G, based in the United States, is a global leader in consumer goods with brands like Tide, Ariel, Pampers, Gillette, and Head & Shoulders. Born in India, Jejurikar studied at Hyderabad Public School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Mumbai University and later completed his MBA at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow in 1989. Recommended Stories Jejurikar joined P&G in July 1989 as an Assistant Brand Manager for Personal Health Care in India. His career progressed steadily, managing skincare brands in India, holding marketing and director roles in East Africa, Kenya, and Asia-Pacific, and advancing into regional and global leadership roles. His education helped him navigate diverse markets with cultural intelligence and business foresight. From 1996 to 2008, Jejurikar held leadership roles across continents, including Marketing Director in India and Vice President in ASEAN, Australia, and Korea-Singapore markets. These roles required marketing strategy, cross-border operational judgement, and team-building skills. In 2010, he became Vice President for Home Care, North America, and Brand Franchise Leader for Surface Care. He later held roles such as President of Fabric Care for North America and head of Global Fabric and Home Care Brand Building, central to P&Gs innovation pipeline. In 2019, Jejurikar was named Chief Executive Officer of Global Fabric and Home Care and Executive Sponsor for Global Sustainability. By 2021, he became Chief Operating Officer with responsibilities for Enterprise Markets across various regions and oversaw global operations in technology, sales, distribution, manufacturing, and new business creation. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Jejurikars leadership is marked by his focus on impact, stakeholder value, and innovation, identifying growth opportunities by understanding consumer needs. These values guided his decisions in transforming brands, business models, supply chains, and global team culture. The 58 year-olds journey from Mumbai University and IIM Lucknow to Cincinnatis boardrooms shows that a strong academic foundation and long-term vision can shape leaders. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 15:23 IST News education-career DYK Shailesh Jejurikar, First Indian CEO Of P&G, Studied At Mumbai University & IIM Lucknow Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... UK's University of Bristol To Establish Campus In Mumbai, Classes From 2026 Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 13:38 IST UK's University of Bristol will initially offer courses on data science, economics, finance and investment, immersive arts, and financial technology, among others. University of Bristol's proposed campus will be situated near central Mumbai.(Image: bristol.ac.uk) The University of Bristol in the UK has received approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC) to establish a campus in Mumbai, with plans to commence operations in 2026, according to officials on Tuesday. Due to open in summer 2026, the Mumbai Enterprise Campus will be the Universitys first international campus. Its a historic moment and a first in transnational education for the University, which next year celebrates its 150th anniversary and also opens the doors to its new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus," reads the official notice. Marking the fifth anniversary of Indias National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the University of Bristol obtained a letter of intent from the Indian government to develop a new Enterprise Campus in Mumbai. Recommended Stories Officials noted that the University of Bristol selected Mumbai due to its strong reputation in technology, innovation, and the arts areas that closely align with Bristols strengths. The proposed campus location is situated near central Mumbai. Similar to the Universitys new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus, slated to open in September 2026, the Mumbai campus will emphasise how data, AI, and immersive technologies converge, with a focus on innovation, interdisciplinary education, and inclusion. Initial courses will cover areas of global expertise for Bristol, such as data science, economics, finance and investment, immersive arts, and financial technology, expanding to computer science and AI, business, and management. The University also plans to offer scholarships through its acclaimed Think Big programme, reported PTI. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all We are absolutely delighted to announce our intention to create a new campus in Mumbai which would mark a pivotal transformation in our 150-year history and a powerful, globally inclusive future we are proud to build in partnership. Developing an in-country base has long been part of our international strategy and supports our ambition to be a top 50 global university," Evelyn Welch, Vice Chancellor and President of the University of Bristol, said. Less than two weeks ago, we launched the UKs most powerful supercomputer in Bristol, and next year we will be opening the doors to our new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus. At such an important time for the University, we are pleased to develop partnerships across the globe which will have meaningful impact," he said. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 13:33 IST News education-career UK's University of Bristol To Establish Campus In Mumbai, Classes From 2026 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... AI Rules In India: What Exists, What Doesnt And Whats Next Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 15:14 IST With the Digital India Act and a national AI framework expected by 2025, India is on the brink of crafting a forward-looking AI policy. India is gearing up to create a more structured and effective regulatory system for AI. (Representative image: Getty) The head of the United Nations International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Doreen Bogdan-Martin, has called for a global approach to AI (Artificial Intelligence) regulation. Theres an urgency to get the right framework in place," she said, underlining the need for international coordination. Her remarks came shortly after former US President Donald Trump announced a bold, low-regulation strategy aimed at keeping the US ahead of China in the global AI race. Recommended Stories Martin also highlighted that 85% countries in the world do not have policies or strategies to regulate AI. India is one such country which is fast becoming a global AI hub, thanks to its booming digital sector, a massive tech-savvy workforce, and strong international investments, but it has yet to roll out a dedicated law to regulate AI. As AI begins to transform everyday sectorsthink healthcare, farming, and educationthere is a growing need for rules that can keep up with this rapid change. Instead, its relying on a mix of existing laws, policy guidelines, and advisories to manage the growth, risks, and ethics of AI. Indias Current AI Rules and Guidelines Even though theres no dedicated AI law yet, India is not starting from scratch. Several laws and policy initiatives already offer partial coverage for AI development and its risks, like protecting user privacy, tackling misinformation, and minimising bias. 1. Statutory Laws These existing laws, although not tailor-made for AI, do cover several AI-related activities: Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) This foundational law governs Indias digital and cybersecurity space. Some key sections relevant to AI include: Section 43A: Companies using AI systems that mishandle personal data can be held responsible for privacy breaches. Section 66D: Punishes impersonation using techlike deepfakes with jail time up to three years or a fine of Rs 2 lakh. Sections 67, 67A, 67B: Meant to stop the spread of obscene or harmful content, these are increasingly applied to AI-generated content. Section 66E: Deals with violations of privacy using AI-generated media, like deepfake videos using someones likeness without consent. Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDPA) This law, passed in August 2023, specifically focuses on digital personal data. It requires consent for processing personal data and gives users the right to correct or delete it. However, theres a loophole: publicly available data is exempt, which means AI systems can still scrape it without needing consent. Information Technology Rules, 2021 (IT Rules) Updated in April 2023, these rules require platforms to remove harmful content, including deepfakes, within 36 hours. They also ask platforms to label AI-generated content clearly to reduce misinformation. 2. Policy Initiatives And Guidelines Several government think tanks and ministries have released non-binding but influential papers on responsible AI use: National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence (#AIForAll), 2018: Rolled out by NITI Aayog, this policy set the tone for AI in sectors like healthcare, education, smart cities, and agriculture. It highlights the need for strong datasets and regulatory frameworks. Principles for Responsible AI, 2021: Another NITI Aayog paper, this outlines core valueslike safety, fairness, transparency, and accountabilityto guide AI development ethically. Operationalising Responsible AI, 2021: This follow-up report outlines real-world steps that governments and private players can take, like building ethical design into AI systems and training people in AI governance. Draft National Data Governance Framework Policy (NDGFP), 2022: Issued by MeitY, this policy aims to improve how India handles dataespecially anonymised datasets that are key to AI innovation. 3. Government Advisories The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued specific advisories on AI, especially generative AI and large language models (LLMs): March 2024 Advisory (Revised): Initially, MeitY wanted companies to get permission before launching under-tested" AI models. After pushback, the rule was softenednow companies are advised (not mandated) to label AI-generated content clearly to avoid misleading users. This shows the government is wary of risks like bias or election interference, even if the advisory isnt legally binding. Deepfake Regulation: Following incidents like the viral deepfake video of actor Rashmika Mandanna, MeitY ordered platforms to take such content down promptly. Courts, too, are using current laws to address deepfake harms. The Role of Courts Courts in India have already started handling cases involving AI-generated content. For instance, when deepfakes target public figures, courts apply laws like: Section 509 (IPC): For acts insulting a womans modesty Section 499 (IPC): For defamation However, broader issues like algorithmic bias, who owns AI-generated content, or whos liable for AI errors still remain in a grey area. Judicial clarity here is limited. Key Gaps In Indias AI Regulation Indias current AI regulation setup is more of a patchwork than a full-fledged system. Existing laws like the IT Act, DPDPA, and IT Rules cover some areas, but they werent built for the AI era. Key issueslike discrimination, IP rights, and job lossesremain unresolved. India is yet to establish a dedicated law to deal with the challenges of AI. Currently, India deals with issues, cases related to AI with existing policies, laws and regulations. According to experts, India has yet to conduct a proper risk assessment to formulate the laws dealing with AI. Without clear data on the harms or market failures AI might cause, strict rules could end up doing more harm than good by stifling innovation. Bias and Discrimination: AI models can reflect and amplify real-world biases. While Article 14 of the Constitution promises equality, it doesnt speak directly to algorithmic discrimination. Intellectual Property (IP): Who owns AI-generated art, writing, or code? Theres no clear answer. A 2021 Parliamentary report flagged this issue, but the government later said current IP laws are good enough", which left many confused. Job Displacement: AI is automating roles in sectors like finance, customer service, and even journalism. But Indias labour lawslike the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947dont yet address AI-related job losses or the need for reskilling. Whats Next: Indias AI Regulation Roadmap India is gearing up to create a more structured and effective regulatory system for AI. India is part of the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI) and has played a key role in AI discussions during its G20 presidency. Unlike the EUs tough GDPR or the USs flexible guidelines, India may go for a balanced approach, supporting innovation without letting ethics fall behind. Heres whats on the horizon: Digital India Act (DIA) Set to replace the two-decade-old IT Act, the DIA aims to handle new-age problems like cybercrime, privacy, and harmful AI use like deepfakes. The DIA may include AI-specific clauses, especially for high-risk applications. Draft AI Regulation Framework top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all MeitY is likely to release a formal AI policy by 2025. This will probably borrow elements from global frameworks like the EU AI Act, emphasising ethics, accountability, and regulatory sandboxes" where companies can test innovations without fear of breaking the rules. By taking cues from global standards, encouraging open dialogue, and committing to ethical principles, India can build an AI governance model thats both effective and inclusivepositioning itself as a leader in the global AI race. About the Author Surbhi Pathak Surbhi Pathak, subeditor, writes on India, world affairs, science, and education. She is currently dabbling with lifestyle content. Follow her on X: @S_Pathak_11. Surbhi Pathak, subeditor, writes on India, world affairs, science, and education. She is currently dabbling with lifestyle content. Follow her on X: @S_Pathak_11. First Published: July 29, 2025, 15:14 IST News explainers AI Rules In India: What Exists, What Doesnt And Whats Next Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Bullet Shells Were Used To Confirm Identity Of Pahalgam Terrorists: What Is Ballistics Matching? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 18:21 IST Amit Shah said bullets fired at Pahalgam were matched with those found in rifles of Dachigam terrorists. What is ballistics matching, how are bullet shells compared? Ballistics matching is a forensic science technique used to determine whether a specific firearm was used to fire a particular bullet or cartridge case. (AI generated for representation) Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday confirmed that three terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack Suleiman, Afghani and Gibran were gunned down by security forces as part of Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday. Among the steps taken by the government to confirm their identities was ballistics matching. What is it? How is it done? Recommended Stories What Amit Shah said Explaining how the government confirmed that these three terrorists were involved in the Pahalgam attack, the Home Minister said, The National Investigation Agency (NIA) earlier arrested those who sheltered these terrorists. When their bodies were brought to Srinagar, we got them to identify the bodies." For further confirmation, he said, forensic reports of bullet shells recovered from the Pahalgam attack site, which were ready, were used. After these terrorists were killed, their rifles were seized. One was an M9, the other two were AK-47s. We got these rifles flown to Chandigarh central FSL (forensic science laboratory) on a special plane. We generated empty bullet shells by firing these rifles and then matched them with those found in Pahalgam. It was then confirmed that these three rifles were used to murder innocent civilians in Pahalgam," Shah said, adding, There is no room for doubt. I am holding the ballistics report, six scientists have cross-checked it and confirmed to me over video call that the bullets fired at Pahalgam and the bullets fired from these guns are a 100 per cent match." #WATCH | Delhi | Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, " NIA had already arrested those who gave them shelter. Those who fed them were detained. When the terrorists' dead bodies reached Srinagar, they were identified as the three people who carried out the terror attack in pic.twitter.com/TqNlZWXlIU ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 What is ballistics matching? It is a forensic science technique used to determine whether a specific firearm was used to fire a particular bullet or cartridge case. Its a key tool in criminal investigations involving guns. Every gun leaves unique microscopic marks on bullets and shell casings when its fired. These marks are like a fingerprint" made by: The barrel (leaves striations on the bullet) The firing pin, breech face, and ejector/extractor (leave marks on the cartridge case) Ballistics experts compare these marks to match a bullet or casing to a specific gun. What are the types of ballistics involved? 1. Internal Ballistics: What happens inside the gun when its fired (not usually used for matching). 2. External Ballistics: The bullets path after leaving the gun (used for trajectory analysis, not matching). 3. Terminal Ballistics: What the bullet does when it hits the target (used in injury analysis). 4. Forensic Ballistics / Toolmark Analysis: This is what ballistics matching refers to analysing the tool marks left by the firearm. What are the key forensic tests to match bullets or shells to a specific firearm? Test-firing the suspect firearm: The recovered gun is fired in a controlled environment (often into a long water tank to avoid deforming the bullet) to generate known reference bullets and casings for comparison. Microscopic Comparison: A dual-lens microscope shows the reference and recovered samples side by side, enabling analysts to spot matching striations, impressions, and microscopic marks at once. Bullet analysis relies on rifling patternslands, grooves, and barrel imperfections create a signature" on each bullet that passes through the barrel. Cartridge case analysis focuses on toolmarks from the firing pin, breech face, extractor, and ejector, which also produce unique microscratches or impressions on each case. Class characteristics: General features shared by many firearms of the same type, such as rifling twist, caliber, or number of lands & groovesthey help narrow down the possible weapon class. Individual characteristics: Microscopic, uniquely formed marks due to manufacturing and wear. These enable examiners to determine if a bullet or case came from a specific firearm. Automated Ballistics Systems (IBIS / NIBIN): Many labs use the Integrated Ballistics Identification System (IBIS)such as NIBIN in the U.S.to digitally capture and compare images of bullets/casings across large databases. These systems flag possible matches for further human review. Advanced 3D Imaging: Some labs employ 3D surface topography imaging to generate highly detailed digital models of toolmark patterns. These enhance matching accuracy versus traditional 2D imaging. Databases like the NIST Ballistics Toolmark Research Database also support research and refinement of automated matching methods using 3D data. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Supporting Analyses: Gunshot residue (GSR) on clothing or hands can suggest if a particular firearm was recently fired (though it doesnt confirm bullet-gun match). Fingerprints or DNA may also be recovered from the firearm or spent cartridges, providing additional investigative leads. With Agency Inputs About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 18:08 IST News explainers Bullet Shells Were Used To Confirm Identity Of Pahalgam Terrorists: What Is Ballistics Matching? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Mighty Daggers': All About 4 Para, India's Most Fearless Strike Force That Executed Op Mahadev Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 15:47 IST 4 Para is part of the Parachute Regiment (Para SF) and has been deployed in Kashmir on multiple highstakes missions, such as the 2016 surgical strikes across the LoC. The 4 Para SP is one of the Indian Armys elite Special Forces regiments. (Image: PTI) Operation Mahadev, that tracked down and eliminated three Pahalgam attackers was carried out by Indian Armys 4 Para (Special Forces) officers, defence sources have said. This operation was done by 4 Para (SF) officers. One officer and his buddy identified them, after which they were shot immediately," sources said. What Is 4 Para (SP)? Recommended Stories The 4 Para SP is one of the Indian Armys elite Special Forces regiments. It specialises in counter-terrorism, surgical strikes, high-risk mountain and jungle operations. It is part of the Parachute Regiment (Para SF), nicknamed the Red Devils and has been deployed in Kashmir on multiple highstakes missions, such as the 2016 surgical strikes across the LoC. The nickname Red Devils comes from their distinctive maroon berets (symbolising airborne forces) and their fierce reputation in combat. It is considered among the most lethal units in South Asia. Its operatives are handpicked, undergo one of the worlds toughest probation regimens, and are trained for rapid deployment, deep infiltration, and surgical precision. Red Devils is also historically associated with elite airborne units worldwide, including Britains paratroopers and the Indian 4 Para SF adopted it as a badge of honour due to similar elite status and operational ethos. The 4 Para (SF) is often called Mighty Daggers, an unofficial nickname or call sign associated with 4 Para (Special Forces). Mighty Daggers is often used within the regiment or in internal callsigns, social media tributes, or veterans references to highlight their combat aggressiveness and sharp-strike capability. The term symbolises their razor-sharp operational precision striking fast and deep like a dagger." What Operations Have 4 Para (SP) Carried Out? 4 Para is considered one of the most battle-hardened special forces units in India. From the 2016 surgical strikes to Operation Mahadev, Mighty Daggers" have carried out some of the most crucial anti-terror operations. Heres a look at some of these: Surgical Strikes (2016) Following the Uri terror attack, 4 Para led the cross-border surgical strike targeting terrorist launch pads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Inserted at night, the commandos neutralised multiple targets and returned without casualties. Their role demonstrated Indias new proactive doctrine against terrorism. Kupwara Snow Encounter (April 2020) In a rare and dangerous high-altitude mission, 4 Para commandos were heli-dropped into a snow-covered forest in Kupwara to intercept infiltrators. Despite one commando falling into a crevasse during landing, the team engaged five heavily armed terrorists in close-quarters combat, eliminating all of them. The operation showcased 4 Paras resilience in extreme conditions. Operation Mahadev (July 2025) Most recently, 4 Para played a central role in Operation Mahadev, targeting terrorists hiding in the Harwan forest near Dachigam National Park. The unit swiftly cordoned off the area and engaged in a fierce gunbattle, killing three terrorists, including the mastermind of the Pahalgam massacre. The precision strike in dense terrain underlined 4 Paras counter-terror excellence. How 4 Para Came Into Being The 4th Battalion of the Parachute Regiment traces its roots to World War II, originally raised as part of the British Indian Army in 1941. Initially trained as a conventional airborne infantry unit, the battalion participated in key operations during the Burma campaign. In the 1965 and 1971 wars against Pakistan, 4 Para served as a para-infantry unit. Post-war experiences revealed a need for a specialized unconventional warfare force. In the 1980s, select battalions like 1, 9, and 10 Para began developing commando capabilities, focusing on counter-insurgency, hostage rescue, and deep-penetration raids. In 2001, after Parliament attack and amid rising terror threats, 4 Para was formally converted into a full-fledged Special Forces (SF) unit. This marked its transition from parachute infantry to a Tier 1 special operations force. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all 4 Para underwent advanced training in Himachal Pradesh, Belgaum, and Nahan, including HALO jumps, jungle warfare, mountain ops, and urban CQB (close quarters battle). The battalion has since operated in Jammu & Kashmir, the Northeast, and across the Line of Control, often under deep cover. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 15:41 IST News explainers 'Mighty Daggers': All About 4 Para, India's Most Fearless Strike Force That Executed Op Mahadev Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Thai Baht Falls Amid Border Tensions With Cambodia: What It Means For Tourists And The Region Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 11:17 IST Since the resurgence of the border conflict, the Thai Baht has depreciated by around 3.5% against the USD. Against the INR, the decline has been less pronounced but still notable The Thai Finance Ministry and the Bank of Thailand have taken measured steps to reassure markets amidst the border tension with Cambodia. (Getty Images) The Thai Baht (THB) has come under increasing pressure in recent weeks following escalated tensions along the Cambodia-Thailand border. While political flashpoints are not new between the two neighbours, this latest flare-up centred around disputed zones and troop movements has triggered economic jitters, most visibly reflected in the weakening of the Thai currency. But what exactly is happening with the Baht, and what does this mean for Indian tourists the second-largest group of visitors to Thailand and the broader Southeast Asian geopolitical balance? Recommended Stories How Much Has The Baht Fallen? Since the resurgence of the border conflict in late June 2025, the Thai Baht has depreciated by around 3.5% against the US Dollar, dropping from approximately 35.8 to 37.1 per USD as of late July. Against the Indian Rupee (INR), the decline has been less pronounced but still notable, from about 2.40 THB/INR to 2.28 THB/INR, a fall of nearly 5% in effective value for Indian travellers. Currency markets have priced in the dual threat of political instability and a likely slowdown in tourism revenue, a critical pillar of Thailands economy. With investors moving to safer assets and regional equities also seeing a dip, the Baht has entered a volatile patch not seen since early 2023. The bahts gain is putting pressure on authorities to curb its strength to protect the nations economic drivers of tourism and exports. Bank of Thailand will continue to watch for any excessive volatility," said Christopher Wong, senior foreign-exchange strategist at Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp. in Singapore, as quoted by Bloomberg. A break of the resistance level at 32 to 32.1 baht per dollar may add more tailwind to the currency, he said. What Sparked The Border Dispute? The current tensions stem from an unresolved demarcation near the Preah Vihear temple complexa historic flashpoint between Thailand and Cambodia. Though the International Court of Justice awarded sovereignty over the temple to Cambodia in 1962, overlapping territorial claims around the site have led to sporadic military stand-offs for years. Whats different this time is the scale and visibility. Increased troop mobilisation, nationalistic rhetoric from both sides, and diplomatic hardening have fuelled speculation of a prolonged stand-off. The economic repercussions are already being felt in border trade, logistics, and investor confidence. Tourism Takes A Hit: Why Indian Travellers Matter Thailand has long been a top destination for Indian tourists. In 2024, more than 1.8 million Indian travellers visited Thailand, contributing significantly to its hospitality, retail, and wellness industries. However, the current instability, even though not directly affecting popular tourist zones like Bangkok, Phuket, or Krabi, has created a ripple of uncertainty. Key Concerns For Indian Tourists In 2024, Thailand saw a record 2.1 million Indian visitors, making India its thirdlargest tourism market after China and Malaysia. By midJune 2025, over 1 million Indian tourists had already arrived, indicating strong growth momentum. The Indian Embassy in Cambodia had over the weekend issued an advisory urging Indian nationals to avoid travel to border areas amid the border flare-up. Thus, Indian travellers need to keep certain things in mind before making their travel plans: Safety perceptions: Even if the violence is localised near the Thai-Cambodian border, the broader image of Thailand as a safe haven" may be dented. Currency volatility: Indian travellers budgeting in Indian rupees may benefit slightly from the Bahts fall, but this is offset by higher airfare and insurance costs amid geopolitical risk. Cancellations & re-routing: Travel agencies have reported rise in inquiries about alternate Southeast Asian destinations like Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore. Ironically, the weaker Baht also makes Thailand a better-value destination for those who still plan to go. Hotel and shopping bills are lower in Rupee terms, and Thai businesses are offering additional discounts to keep tourist footfall high. Whats The Thai Govts Response? Thailands government has thus far maintained that the situation is under control and limited in scope. Military commanders have issued public statements asserting restraint, and diplomatic channels with Cambodia remain technically open. Economically, the Thai Finance Ministry and the Bank of Thailand have taken measured steps to reassure markets: Currency intervention: The central bank has engaged in light interventions to prevent sharp swings in the Baht. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Tourism marketing: New promotional campaigns are targeting Indian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern travellers to offset booking cancellations. Travel security advisory updates: Thailand is coordinating with foreign embassies, including Indias, to ensure that tourists are informed but not alarmed. About the Author Shilpy Bisht Shilpy Bisht, Deputy News Editor at News18, writes and edits national, world and business stories. She started off as a print journalist, and then transitioned to online, in her 12 years of experience. Her prev... Read More Shilpy Bisht, Deputy News Editor at News18, writes and edits national, world and business stories. She started off as a print journalist, and then transitioned to online, in her 12 years of experience. Her prev... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 11:16 IST News explainers Thai Baht Falls Amid Border Tensions With Cambodia: What It Means For Tourists And The Region Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Woman Who Accused Christian Horner Leaves Red Bull For New Role: Report Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 10:14 IST Accuser of Christian Horner's inappropriate behaviour now holds a new role in motorsport, according to a report. Follow us on: Christian Horner was sacked by Red Bull earlier this month (Picture credit: AFP) The woman who had accused former Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner of inappropriate behaviour has left the team for a new role in motorsport, according to a report in The Daily Mail. Horner twice transformed Red Bull into Formula 1s dominant team over his two decades in charge. Recommended Stories The female employee, as she was referred to in reports, made accusations of coercive behaviour of a sexual nature against Horner. Horner, husband of former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, was cleared of misbehaviour by two different investigations led by KCs. Earlier this month, Horner left Red Bull after two decades in charge, during which time he led them to 14 world titles. Horner was released from operational duties three weeks ago, without being provided with any explanation. A severance package worth up to 60 million to settle his contract has yet to be agreed. Despite having her claims rejected, the female employee remained on Red Bulls payroll for many months afterwards, suspended on full pay, though that arrangement stopped time ago, according to the report. It has now emerged that the woman has taken up a new position. The paddock was electrified in Bahrain last March when an anonymous email, containing a series of racy texts, seemingly between Horner and the female employee, was sent to Formula 1s leading figures. A Red Bull team whose time at the top was ending, Max Verstappen won just two of 14 races to end last season and a draining spell early last year when he was cleared of inappropriate behaviour towards a woman team member should have rung alarm bells for Horner. Instead, just as he did when those allegations emerged in February last year, the British executive carried on working in the hope he could reignite another period of dominance. Sebastian Vettel won four successive titles under Horner from 2010 to 2013, with Verstappen winning the past four. Red Bull won six constructors crowns in that time as well. Horner missed his first Formula 1 paddock appearance since 2004 at the Belgian GP, watching from home as Oscar Piastri claimed a win and Verstappen finished fourth. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all football, tennis, badmintion, News18 Sports brings you the latest updates, live commentary, and highlights from cricket wwe and more. Catch breaking news, live scores, and in-depth coverage. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! view comments First Published: July 29, 2025, 10:14 IST News sports formula-one Woman Who Accused Christian Horner Leaves Red Bull For New Role: Report Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Accident Victim Bled On Stretcher, Left To Die At Govt Hospital; Family Says Doctor Was Asleep Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 09:32 IST The grieving family alleged that the doctor on duty was asleep while they pleaded for urgent medical attention for the victim at a government hospital in Meerut. Junior resident doctor suspended at Meerut hospital for negligence (AI-generated image) A 30-year-old man, who met with an accident and was admitted to a government hospital in Meerut, bled to death when he was left unattended for hours at the emergency ward", according to a report. A junior resident doctor at the Lala Lajpat Rai Memorial (LLRM) Medical College was suspended on Monday for alleged negligence, after a purported video of him surfaced, showing him asleep in front of an AC with a leg placed on the table surfaced, Times of India reported. Recommended Stories The family of the victim, identified as Sunil Kumar, was seen pleading with other staff for immediate treatment. Principal of the medical college, Dr RC Gupta, said that the administration has taken note of the said video, and the concerned junior resident doctor, identified as Dr Bhupesh Kumar Rai, was immediately suspended. A three-member committee was formed to investigate the allegations levelled by the grieving family. The accident victim was probably admitted to the hospitals emergency ward around 1 am on Monday. Weve also taken note of the fact that in the widely circulated video, the patients family members were pleading for treatment," the official was quoted as saying by TOI. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The victims family said that Kumar suffered an injury in his leg after a vehicle struck his bike on Sunday night. They alleged that they waited for a long time for the on-duty doctor to wake up and also pleaded with other medical staff for help. However, it did not help. The family alleged that Kumar, who was bleeding continuously, was left to die on the stretcher. About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Location : Meerut, India, India First Published: July 29, 2025, 09:32 IST News india Accident Victim Bled On Stretcher, Left To Die At Govt Hospital; Family Says Doctor Was Asleep Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'After Abhinandan, BSF Jawan Were Captured, Congress Thought I Would Be Trapped': PM Modi Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 19:44 IST PM Modi slammed Congress in Lok Sabha, citing captures of Wing Commander Abhinandan and a BSF jawan by Pakistan Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, while taking a dig at the Congress party during his address in the Lok Sabha, referred to two high-profile incidents: the capture of Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman in 2019 and the recent capture of a BSF jawan by Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack. PM Modi made these remarks while replying to the two-day debate on the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor in the Lower House. Recommended Stories When pilot Abhinandan was captured, it was natural for there to be an atmosphere of celebration in Pakistan, after all, they had a pilot from the Indian Air Force in their custody," PM said. Watch: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, When pilot Abhinandan was captured, it was natural for there to be an atmosphere of celebration in Pakistan, after all, they had a pilot from the Indian Air Force in their custody. But even here, there were some people whispering, Now pic.twitter.com/FyFqnyD98M IANS (@ians_india) July 29, 2025 But even here, there were some people whispering, Now Modi is trapped. Lets see if Modi can bring Abhinandan back. Lets see what Modi does now. But let me say it loud and clear, Abhinandan returned with pride and dignity," he added. Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman became a national hero after he shot down a Pakistani F-16 during an aerial clash in February 2019. His aircraft was also hit, and he was captured after landing in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. He was later released and returned to India safely. For his bravery, he was awarded the Vir Chakra, Indias third-highest wartime gallantry award. Additionally, he also referred to the recent capture of a BSF jawan by Pakistan during the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, Modi said, They thought they (Congress) had found a big issue that now Modi would be trapped But that BSF jawan also returned with pride and honour." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all PM Modi also recalled the time when Indian soldiers showed valour during the Doklam standoff. Congress leaders were secretly giving briefings to whom? The whole world knows that. Just compare all the statements from Pakistan with the statements made by those here who oppose us, they match from full stop to comma," he added. He accused Congress of not fully honouring the sacrifices made during the Kargil conflict. The entire nation knows very well that during Kargil and even till today, Congress has never truly embraced Kargil Vijay Diwas," he said. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 19:39 IST News india 'After Abhinandan, BSF Jawan Were Captured, Congress Thought I Would Be Trapped': PM Modi Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Air Passenger Complaints In India Nearly Match 2024 Total In Just Six Months Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 14:29 IST Ram Mohan Naidu told the Parliament on Monday that the DGCA has received almost as many complaints in just the first half of 2025 as it did in all of 2024. Airline complaints soar in 2025 (Representative image) The Indian aviation sector is under close watch as complaints from passengers and technical glitches within the aircraft are rising fast. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu told the Parliament on Monday that the DGCA has received almost as many complaints in just the first half of 2025 as it did in all of 2024. Recommended Stories In a written answer to a question asked by MP Mukul Balkrishna Wasnik, the Minister said that 3,925 passenger complaints were filed with the DGCA from January to June this year. The number of complaints in all of 2024 was 4,016. In previous years, there were 5,513 complaints in 2023, 3,783 in 2022, and 4,131 in 2021. The numbers indicate that the problems faced by passengers have been ongoing for years. Besides passenger complaints, technical issues in aircraft are also a major concern. The Ministers reply in the Parliament noted that as of June 2025, 183 technical defects have been reported, which account for 43% of the 421 glitches found last year. In the past years, 448 defects were found in 2023, 528 in 2022, and 514 in 2021. Over the last five years till June 2025, the DGCA has investigated 2,094 serious issues in the aircraft. Naidu said that all airlines are required to report and investigate any defects found by the pilots or maintenance crews immediately. Serious issues must be reported to the DGCA immediately," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all DGCA has comprehensive and structured civil aviation regulations for safe operation of aircraft and its maintenance. These regulations are continuously updated and aligned with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)/European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards. Post-accident, DGCA enhanced the check and inspection of the critical component of safety assurance in order to identify and rectify immediate systemic issues," the Minister added. His remarks came after the Air India-171 crash shortly after take-off in Ahmedabad, killing 241 on board. About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 14:29 IST News india Air Passenger Complaints In India Nearly Match 2024 Total In Just Six Months Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Amit Shah Says Pakistan Sought Ceasefire After India's Airbase Attacks: 'They Had No Other Option' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 13:22 IST Amit Shah told the Lok Sabha that Pakistan sought a ceasefire on May 10 after Indias airbase strikes under 'Operation Sindoor'. Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha (Photo: PTI) Operation Sindoor Debate in Lok Sabha: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday addressed the Lok Sabha on the India-Pakistan ceasefire and said the neighbouring country had no option but to seek peace with India, after we attacked their airbases during Operation Sindoor He clarified that the ceasefire between India and Pakistan was achieved on May 10 after Indias Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) received a call from Pakistans DGMO at nearly 5 pm. Recommended Stories Also Read: Operation Sindoor Debate In Parliament LIVE Updates Pakistan had no option but to seek peace," Amit Shah said. Thats why on May 10, Pakistans DGMO called Indias DGMO, and at 5 pm, we agreed to a ceasefire at the border," he added. The Union Ministers remark was a sharp retort to US President Donald Trumps repeated claims of a mediation between India and Pakistan through a trade deal. Further attacking the Congress party, Amit Shah said, The Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir is in existence due to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehrus policies." This is the seventh day of the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Parliament, and the debate was initiated by Shah today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the debate in the evening. Leader of Opposition (LoP) Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi is likely to speak before Prime Minister Modis address in the Lower House. Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha plans to hold a 16-hour-long discussion on Indias Operation Sindoor today. The largest opposition party, Congress, has been allotted approximately two hours for discussion. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge will open the debate for them. The discussion on Operation Sindoor began in the Lok Sabha on Monday afternoon, when the Lower House held a discussion on Indias military response, amid the Oppositions demand for the same. The discussion concluded around 1 am, with the Opposition and ruling party leaders at loggerheads with each other. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Opposition parties have been demanding a discussion on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor and have sought the governments clarification over Trumps repeated claims that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. ALSO READ | All 3 Terrorists Killed In Op Mahadev Involved In Pahalgam Attack: Amit Shah In Lok Sabha About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. First Published: July 29, 2025, 12:53 IST News india Amit Shah Says Pakistan Sought Ceasefire After India's Airbase Attacks: 'They Had No Other Option' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'All 3 Terrorists Killed In Op Mahadev Involved In Pahalgam Attack': Amit Shah In Lok Sabha Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 14:30 IST Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed in the Lok Sabha that Suleiman Shah and two others killed in the Dachigam encounter were involved in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha (Photo: PTI) Suleiman Shah alias Hashim Musa, and two others killed in the Dachigam encounter in Srinagar, were involved in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, as the House continued its discussion on Operation Sindoor. The two other terrorists killed in the Armys surprise action, codenamed Operation Mahadev, were identified as Jibran, who was allegedly involved in the Sonamarg tunnel attack last year, and Hamza Afghani, it was known on Monday. Recommended Stories WHAT AMIT SHAH TOLD LOK SABHA ON OP MAHADEV I would like to share details about Operation Mahadev, which took place yesterday. In this operation, three terrorists, Suleiman, Jibran, and one other, Afghani, were neutralised in a joint operation conducted by the Indian Army, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Jammu Police," Amit Shah told the Lok Sabha. Suleiman was a terrorist affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and all three were classified as A-grade terrorists," he added. Operation Mahadev began on May 22, 2025, a month after the Pahalgam attack took place. A security meeting was held that very night, when the Intelligence Bureau (IB) received input about the presence of terrorists in Dachigam." The Pahalgam attack occurred at 1 pm, and I was in Srinagar by 5.30 pm that evening," Amit Shah said. Steps were taken to ensure the Pahalgam terrorists didnt escape to Pakistan," he added. In the freezing heights, our Army and IB officers kept moving through the terrain to intercept their signals. On July 22, their presence in the area was finally confirmed. The Army, CRPF, and the Jammu and Kashmir Police jointly carried out a coordinated operation to surround them," Amit Shah said. In the operation conducted yesterday, all three terrorists responsible for killing innocent civilians were eliminated," he added. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had already arrested those who had provided shelter to the terrorists. When the terrorists bodies were brought to Srinagar, those arrested were made to identify them, and they confirmed the identities of all three," the Union Minister said. From the attack site, cartridge cases were recovered, and their forensic test had already been conducted in advance. When the terrorists were killed yesterday, their rifles were recovered, and the cartridges found with them were from M9 American rifles," he added. A ballistic comparison of the recovered rifles and shell casings confirmed that these same three weapons were used in the attack on our civilians," Shah told Lok Sabha. As Amit Shah concluded his speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X and wrote, In this remarkable speech in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah Ji gives important details about Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which have played a vital role in eliminating cowardly terrorists." His address also focuses on our Governments efforts towards keeping our nation secure," the Prime Minister added. In this remarkable speech in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah Ji gives important details about Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which have played a vital role in eliminating cowardly terrorists. His address also focuses on our Governments efforts towards keeping https://t.co/FQ7cCNl4nO Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 29, 2025 OPERATION MAHADEV IN SRINAGAR Operation Mahadev was carried out following a technical signal indicating the use of a satellite phone that was used by the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack. The bodies of the slain terrorists were later handed over to the local police, which helped in the identification process, for carrying out legal formalities and final rites as per the standard operating procedure. Also Read: Operation Sindoor Debate In Parliament LIVE Updates The Lok Sabha on Monday afternoon began discussion on Indias Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The debate was initiated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. ALSO READ | Same Rifles Used To Attack Civilians: Op Mahadev Recoveries Confirm Pahalgam Terrorists Were Killed About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. First Published: July 29, 2025, 12:13 IST News india 'All 3 Terrorists Killed In Op Mahadev Involved In Pahalgam Attack': Amit Shah In Lok Sabha Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Have You Ever Been To Border': Amit Shah Mocks Gaurav Gogoi's Pakistan Visits Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 13:37 IST Union Home Minister Amit Shah questioned Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi's visits to Pakistan during a Lok Sabha debate on 'Operation Sindoor'. Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha (Photo: PTI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday launched a blistering attack against Congresss Jorhat MP Gaurav Gogoi over his past visits to Pakistan, and asked him if he has ever been to the India-Pakistan border. Addressing the Lok Sabha over Indias Operation Sindoor against terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), the Union Home Minister said, You have been to Pakistan many times, Gogoi Sahab" Recommended Stories But, have you ever been to the India-Pakistan border?" he asked. Shahs attack on Gogoi came hours after Assam Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday slammed Gogoi for his speech on Operation Sindoor in Parliament. Sarma alleged that the Congress leader was acting on behalf of Pakistan," and was a disgrace" to the state. Sarma also reiterated his claim of Congresss Gogoi having alleged links to Pakistan, saying that the latter could leave India any time" with his wife having foreign citizenship. On Monday, Gogoi targeted the Centre over US President Donald Trumps repeated claims that he brokered the cessation of hostilities between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor. Participating in the debate in the Lok Sabha, in response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Gogoi slammed the government for halting Operation Sindoor after Pakistan capitulated and asked why it did not go further and reclaim the territory illegally occupied by the neighbouring country. The entire country and the Opposition were supporting PM Modi. Suddenly, on May 10, we got to know that there had been a ceasefire. Why? We wanted to know from PM Modi that if Pakistan was ready to kneel, then why did you stop, and to whom did you surrender? The US President has said this 26 times that he forced India and Pakistan to announce a ceasefire," Gogoi said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The government has maintained that there was no mediation and the cessation of hostilities with Pakistan during Operation Sindoor took place after Pakistans Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) contacted his Indian counterpart. ALSO READ | Pakistan Voter IDs, Weapons Found: Amit Shah Rebuts Chidambaram On Pahalgam Terrorists About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. First Published: July 29, 2025, 13:25 IST News india 'Have You Ever Been To Border': Amit Shah Mocks Gaurav Gogoi's Pakistan Visits Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Bahut Mara: In Parliament, PM Modi Says Indias Retaliation Forced Pakistan To Seek Ceasefire Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 19:58 IST PM Narendra Modi said that Pakistan begged India to stop the war saying that "ab jyada maar jhelne ki takat nahi hai". "No world leader asked to stop the attack," the PM said PM Modi said India took action against Pakistan from Sindoor to Sindhu. (PTI) PM Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha: Clearing the stance on Operation Sindoor ceasefire, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday that Pakistan begged for a ceasefire on May 10. The Opposition has repeatedly questioned the Indian government over US President Donald Trumps remarks that he got the two sides to cease fire by promising a trade deal. PM Modi, however, clarified what happened from May 7-10, saying no world leader asked to stop the attack". Recommended Stories The PM said that after the Pahalgam terrorist attack, Pakistan Forces had an idea that India would indeed take major action. They started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of 6-7 May, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything. Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks." When the surgical strike happened, we aimed to enter and destroy their launching pads. During Balakot, we aimed to destroy terrorist training centres. During Operation Sindoor, our aim was to destroy the terror epicentre. Some people knowingly want to forget things.On May 6-7, the Indian Army clearly said that our aim was terrorists and their camps. We achieved it," said the PM. #WATCH | PM Modi says, Ab hamle ke baad mastermind ko nind nahi aaati, unko pata hain Bharat aayega aur maar kar jayega. This new normal has been set by India. Sindoor se leke Sindhu tak, we have taken action against Pakistan." pic.twitter.com/nxKAgaWjII ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 The PM said, Pakistan stood with the terrorists. We told the world our aim was terrorists and terror camps. When Pakistan aided the terrorists, we gave them a reply which they will not forget in the times to come. Our missiles attacked Pakistan in a way that they could not even imagine. We brought them to their knees." Pakistan then called our DGMO and requested to stop.said bahut mara ab jyada maar jhelne ki takat nahi hai, please hamla rok do.this was Pakistani DGMO. We said on Day One itself, our action is not acceleratoryNo world leader asked to stop the attack," the PM said on the ceasefire. Also Read: Revenge Of April 22 In 22 Minutes: PM Modi Says India Struck Terror Camps Deep Inside Pakistan top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He further added: After the attack, even their mastermind cant sleep well at night. They know that India will return and hit harder (Bharat aayega aur maar kar jayega). This is the new normal that has been set by India. Sindoor se leke Sindhu tak, we have taken action against Pakistan." India has proved that nuclear blackmailing will not work anymore and neither will India bow down to this nuclear blackmailing. We struck Pakistan precisely on the chest. Pakistans airbases and assets have suffered heavy damage. And to date, many of their airbases are in the ICU. This is the era of technology-based war. If we had not made the preparations that we have done in the last 10 years, then we could imagine how much loss we could have suffered in this era of technology," said the PM. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 18:49 IST News india Bahut Mara: In Parliament, PM Modi Says Indias Retaliation Forced Pakistan To Seek Ceasefire Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 4 Para (SF) Officer Identified Pahalgam Attackers, Shot Them: Exclusive From Defence Sources Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 12:57 IST Op Mahadev In Dachigam: This operation was done by 4 Para (SF) officers. One officer and his buddy identified them, after which they were shot, said top defence sources Follow us on: Security personnel keep vigil in Srinagar district on Monday. (PTI) The operation to kill three Pahalgam attackers in an encounter in Srinagars Dachigam on Monday was carried out 4 Para (Special Forces) officers, said defence sources. This operation was done by 4 Para (SF) officers. One officer and his buddy identified them, after which they were shot immediately," said sources. Recommended Stories One M4 carbine rifle, two AK rifles and other munitions were recovered from the site of the encounter. #WATCH | Home Minister Amit Shah confirms all three terrorists, including Suleiman Shah alias Hashim Musa, killed under #OperationMahadev had involvement in Pahalgam terror attack as he speaks in Lok Sabha #Parliament #parliamentsession2025 #monsoonsession2025 #AmitShah pic.twitter.com/b38ZWtFhGW News18 (@CNNnews18) July 29, 2025 What home minister Amit Shah said Speaking in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed that Suleiman Shah alias Hashim Musa, and two others killed in the Dachigam encounter were involved in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The two other terrorists killed in the action were identified as Jibran, who was allegedly involved in the Sonamarg tunnel attack last year, and Hamza Afghani, it was known on Monday. I would like to share details about Operation Mahadev, which took place yesterday. In this operation, three terrorists, Suleiman, Jibran, and one other, Afghani, were neutralised in a joint operation conducted by the Indian Army, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Jammu Police," Amit Shah told the Lok Sabha. Suleiman was a terrorist affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and all three were classified as A-grade terrorists," he added. #OperationSindoorDebate | HM Amit Shah sets the record straight: all 3 terrorists behind the civilian killings were eliminated in yesterdays #OperationMahadev. He shares key details and reaffirms govts commitment to national security#OperationSindoor #Parliament #Trending pic.twitter.com/j70xyE4yLM News18 (@CNNnews18) July 29, 2025 What is 4 Para (Special Forces)? The 4 Para (Special Forces) of the Indian Army is one of the most elite and battle-hardened units in the country 4 Para (SF) traces its roots to the Parachute Regiment of the Indian Army. Originally raised as a parachute battalion, it was converted into a Special Forces unit in the early 2000s to deal with emerging threats requiring rapid, covert, and high-impact operations. The unit was officially re-designated as 4 Para (Special Forces) and has since specialized in counter-terrorism, direct action, reconnaissance, and hostage rescue missions, both in conventional and asymmetric warfare environments. 4 Para (SF) has been extensively deployed in Jammu & Kashmir for counter-insurgency operations. It is renowned for high-risk behind-enemy-lines missions and precision strikes against terrorist infrastructure. The unit played a key role in the 2016 Surgical Strikes across the Line of Control (LoC), targeting terrorist launch pads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. It has also been involved in neutralizing high-value militant targets in urban and rural combat zones. How the terrorists were tracked A Huawei satellite phone was reportedly used by the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack, but the device had not been used since the attack. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all However, intelligence agencies tracking the phone observed that a call was made using the device two days ago. Subsequently, the location of the device was found to be deep inside Dachigam, with no human habitation around it. Following the encounter in Srinagars Dachigam, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said kinetic operations have been going on for the past several months in the region to eliminate terrorists. About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 view comments First Published: July 29, 2025, 12:49 IST News india 4 Para (SF) Officer Identified Pahalgam Attackers, Shot Them: Exclusive From Defence Sources Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Deepened India-UK Ties: PM Modi Mourns Economist Meghnad Desais Demise Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 22:54 IST Eminent economist Meghnad Desai passed away at 84. PM Modi expressed condolences, noting Desai's role in strengthening India-UK ties. Desai was a renowned author and academic. Born in Gujarat in 1940, Desai built a formidable academic career at the London School of Economics, where he taught for nearly four decades. (Photo: X/NarendraModi) Eminent economist Meghnad Desai passed away at the age of 84 on Tuesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over Desais death and said he played a role in deepening India-UK ties. Anguished by the passing away of Shri Meghnad Desai Ji, a distinguished thinker, writer and economist. He always remained connected to India and Indian culture. He also played a role in deepening India-UK ties. Will fondly recall our discussions, where he shared his valuable insights. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti," PM Modi wrote in a post on X. Recommended Stories Anguished by the passing away of Shri Meghnad Desai Ji, a distinguished thinker, writer and economist. He always remained connected to India and Indian culture. He also played a role in deepening India-UK ties. Will fondly recall our discussions, where he shared his valuable pic.twitter.com/q1cv3DAXaw Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 29, 2025 Sanjeev Sanyal, economist and member of the Prime Ministers Economic Advisory Council, paid a tribute to Desai and remembered the discussions and debates that he had with him. Very sorry to hear that eminent economist Meghnad Desai has passed away. I had known him for over two decades. He was always cheerful and open to new ideas. I will cherish the many long discussions and debates that we had over the years. Om Shanti," he wrote. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said Desai leaves behind a rich body of work, a lasting legacy and very big shoes to fill. I first met Lord Desai in 1999 when I was posted as Indias Deputy High Commissioner at @HCI_London and he led LSEs Centre for the Study of Global Governance which was also founded by him in 1992. He taught at the London School of Economics for nearly four decades, shaping economic research and inspiring generations of students in addition to authoring several pathbreaking books and more than 200 articles in academic journals," he wrote on X. Who Was Meghnad Desai? top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Meghnad Desai was a renowned economist, author, and British parliamentarian whose intellectual influence spanned continents. Born in Gujarat in 1940, Desai built a formidable academic career at the London School of Economics, where he taught for nearly four decades and made significant contributions to development economics, Marxian theory, and global governance. A prolific writer, he authored over 200 academic papers and several influential books, including Marxs Revenge and The Rediscovery of India. His sharp intellect and contrarian thinking made him a respectedoften provocativevoice in both scholarly and policy circles. Desai was appointed a life peer in the UKs House of Lords in 1991 and remained deeply engaged in public life, using his platform to foster stronger IndiaUK ties. Despite spending much of his career abroad, he retained a strong connection to India through his writing, commentary, and the establishment of the Meghnad Desai Academy of Economics in Mumbai. Awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2008, Desai remained a steadfast believer in open debate, cultural dialogue, and academic freedom. Until his passing in 2025, he continued to challenge orthodoxies and inspire new generations of economists and thinkers. About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 First Published: July 29, 2025, 22:44 IST News india Deepened India-UK Ties: PM Modi Mourns Economist Meghnad Desais Demise Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Pakistan Voter IDs, Guns, Chocolates': Amit Shah Rebuts Chidambaram On Pahalgam Terrorists Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 14:46 IST Operation Sindoor Debate in Lok Sabha: The Home Minister stated that the government has clear evidence that the Pahalgam attackers were from Pakistani Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. (PTI photo) Operation Sindoor Debate in Lok Sabha: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday responded sharply to Congress leader P. Chidambarams remarks questioning the origin of terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack, saying the government has solid proof that they came from Pakistan. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a special discussion in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, Shah stated that the government has clear evidence that the attackers were Pakistani nationals. Recommended Stories We have their voter ID numbers. The rifles and cartridges used were made in Pakistan," he said, backing his claim with specific details. Shah also informed the House that all three terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam attack were eliminated in a joint operation by the Army, CRPF, and Jammu and Kashmir Police near Srinagar on Monday under Operation Mahadev. The BJP leader accused Chidambaram of defending Pakistan by casting doubt on the terrorists origin. The Union Home Minister said, Yesterday they (Congress) were asking us where the terrorists came from and who was responsible for it. Of course, it is our responsibility as we are in power." Chidambaram ji raised the question what is the proof that the terrorists came from Pakistan? I want to ask him what he will get by saving Pakistan. When he says this, it means they are giving a clean chit to Pakistan," he added. He further criticised the Congress leader further, saying, The former Home Minister of this country is giving Pakistan a clean chit in front of the entire world." What Did Chidambaram Say? Congress leader and former Union Minister P. Chidambaram sparked controversy with his remarks on the Pahalgam attack. In a video interview with The Quint, shared on Sunday, Chidambaram said the attackers for all we know could be homegrown terrorists" and questioned, why do you assume that they came from Pakistan?" He had questioned, Have they identified the terrorists, where they came from? For all we know they could be homegrown terrorists. Why do you assume that they came from Pakistan? There is no evidence of that. They are also hiding the losses." However, later, Chidambaram clarified that his remarks had been taken out of context. PM Modi Praises Shahs Speech Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appreciated Shahs speech in Parliament. In a post on X, he said that the Home Minister had provided key details about Operations Sindoor and Mahadev, which were instrumental in eliminating terrorists. In this remarkable speech in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah Ji gives important details about Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which have played a vital role in eliminating cowardly terrorists," PM Modi wrote. In this remarkable speech in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah Ji gives important details about Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which have played a vital role in eliminating cowardly terrorists. His address also focuses on our Governments efforts towards keeping https://t.co/FQ7cCNl4nO Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 29, 2025 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all His address also focuses on our Governments efforts towards keeping our nation secure," he added. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 12:34 IST News india 'Pakistan Voter IDs, Guns, Chocolates': Amit Shah Rebuts Chidambaram On Pahalgam Terrorists Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Don't Break House's Property: Rahul Gandhis Table Thump Draws Speakers Warning Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 20:45 IST Rahul Gandhi criticised PM Modi for not objecting to Trump's lunch with Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir, accusing Modi of using armed forces for his image. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Monday hit the table in frustration while questioning the government (X) Operation Sindoor Debate: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was seen schooling Leader Of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday during the house proceedings. While speaking during the special discussion in the Lok Sabha on Indias strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam," Rahul Gandhi expressed his frustration by banging the table while questioning the governments silence over US President Donald Trump inviting Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir for lunch. Recommended Stories The man behind Pahalgam is a Pakistani general called Asim Munir (chief of Army staff). That man is having lunch with the US President. He is sitting there. Our PM cannot go there. Mr Trump is breaking all protocol. And he is inviting the man who has done terrorism with India to have lunch with him. PM Modi hasnt said anything. He didnt say how dare Mr Trump invite Munir to his office," Rahul said, while forcefully banging the table. The act drew a light rebuke from Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who reminded the Congress leader to be mindful of House property. Respected member, this is Houses property, please dont break it," Birla said after watching Rahul getting carried away during the speech. Just now in Lok SabhaRahul Gandhi hits the table in frustration, Speaker Om Birla (shocked a little) says , " pic.twitter.com/uA4tWrWe7C Aishwarya Paliwal (@AishPaliwal) July 29, 2025 Sorry sir, it was a mistake?" the Congress MP soon responded. The outburst came as Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not objecting to Trumps gesture. He described Munir as the key figure behind the April 22 Pahalgam attack. He also accused PM Modi of using the armed forces to protect his image after the Pahalgam attack. If Modi ji has even 50 per cent of the courage that Indira Gandhi had, then clearly he must say in Parliament Donald Trump is lying," he said. Gandhi also said that if the government had listened to his statement in Lok Sabha a few months ago on China and Pakistan fusing together, they would not have lost five aircraft" during Operation Sindoor. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Participating in a special discussion in Lok Sabha on Indias strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam", he claimed the government revealed sensitive details about Operation Sindoor to Pakistan, soon after it was launched. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 20:29 IST News india Don't Break House's Property: Rahul Gandhis Table Thump Draws Speakers Warning Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... DRDO Successfully Tests Maximum And Minimum Range Of 'Pralay' Missile In Odisha Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 14:36 IST The tests, known as User Evaluation Trials, were carried out on Monday and Tuesday from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off the coast of Odisha 'Pralay' is an indigenous missile that uses solid propellant and features advanced guidance and navigation technology. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Tuesday successfully tested both the minimum and maximum range capabilities of the Pralay missile system over two days in Odisha. The tests, known as User Evaluation Trials, were carried out on Monday and Tuesday from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off the coast of Odisha, an official said. Recommended Stories Pralay is an indigenous missile that uses solid propellant and features advanced guidance and navigation technology. According to the Ministry of Defence, the missile followed its intended flight path accurately and hit its target with precision, meeting all objectives of the trials. All parts of the missile system worked as expected. The performance was confirmed through data collected by various tracking sensors set up by the Integrated Test Range (ITR), including equipment placed on a ship near the impact point. The Pralay missile can carry different types of warheads and is designed to target a range of threats. It was developed by DRDOs Research Centre Imarat in partnership with other DRDO labs such as the Defence Research and Development Laboratory, Advanced Systems Laboratory, and several others. Industry partners like Bharat Dynamics Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, and many MSMEs also contributed to the project. Senior DRDO scientists, representatives from the Indian Air Force and Indian Army, and industry partners were present to witness the flight trials. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised DRDO, the Armed Forces, and the industry teams for the successful tests. He said the advanced missile system would further strengthen the countrys defence capabilities. The @DRDO_India has conducted two consecutive successful flight tests of Pralay Missile on 28th and 29th July 2025 from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam island off the coast of Odisha," Singh also shared in a post on X. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Dr Samir V. Kamat, Chairman of DRDO and Secretary of Defence R&D, congratulated all the teams involved. He said the successful completion of this phase of testing brings the missile system closer to being introduced into active service. (With inputs from IANS) About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 14:25 IST News india DRDO Successfully Tests Maximum And Minimum Range Of 'Pralay' Missile In Odisha Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... EC Likely To Take Action Against 2 West Bengal Officers Over Inclusion Of Fictitious Voters Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 19:46 IST Sources in the EC told News18 that both officers, serving as Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) in Baruipur and Moyna, had allegedly shared login credentials preparations are underway for the rollout of SIR in West Bengal. (PTI File) The Election Commission of India (EC) is likely to initiate strict action against two West Bengal Civil Service (WBCS) officers after they were found guilty of facilitating the inclusion of fictitious voters in the electoral rolls. Sources in the EC told News18 that both officers, serving as Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) in Baruipur and Moyna, had allegedly shared login credentials through which fake voter names were added to the rolls. They were summoned on Monday for a hearing, and a preliminary inquiry held them responsible for the anomalies. Recommended Stories The competent authority has been asked to take necessary disciplinary action against both officials," a senior official told News18. The irregularities were uncovered during a random sampling audit conducted by the Commission, prompting it to issue a fresh directive to all District Electoral Officers. The EC has ordered a comprehensive review of all voter inclusions made in the past one year, citing evidence of fake entries. In a move to tighten administrative oversight, the Election Commission has further instructed that no contractual data entry operators will be allowed to participate in any election-related tasks going forward. This comes after reports surfaced indicating misuse and procedural lapses involving temporary staff. Only permanent government staff will be assigned to handle sensitive election duties, particularly related to voter roll management," a source said. Amid these developments, preparations are underway for the rollout of SIR (State-wide Integrated Revision) in West Bengal. Sources confirm that all necessary arrangements are in place for its imminent implementation. The issue of fake voters has sparked a fresh political slugfest in the state. Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari on Monday alleged that his team had uncovered fake voters in two Assembly constituencies. Theyve created bogus voters. Their names must be deleted. In Baruipur alone, we have identified 118 fake names," Adhikari claimed. This will not be tolerated." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On the other hand, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reiterated her concern that there may be wrongful deletion; she stated that under no circumstances should genuine voters be struck off the list under the guise of revision. As the state gears up for electoral roll cleansing, the controversy underscores the high-stakes battle between integrity and political maneuvering in Bengals voter database. About the Author Kamalika Sengupta Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and womens issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East... Read More Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and womens issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 19:45 IST News india EC Likely To Take Action Against 2 West Bengal Officers Over Inclusion Of Fictitious Voters Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Gujarat Doctor Duped Of Rs 19 Crore In 'Digital Arrest' Scam, One Arrested Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 14:26 IST A Gandhinagar doctor was duped of Rs 19 crore over three months by fraudsters posing as officials who trapped her in a 'digital arrest' scam, a report has claimed. An AI-generated image to represent a digital fraud (News18) One person was arrested on charges of duping a doctor and forcing her to transfer Rs 19 crore over a period of three months. According to a report with India Today, the doctor, based in Gujarats Gandhinagar, first received a call on March 15, when the caller told her that she had objectionable content on her phone and that her connection would be snapped. Recommended Stories Fearing a money laundering case against her, the doctor gradually became a victim of digital arrest by the callers, who identified themselves as authorities, including a sub-inspector, a public prosecutor, and others. As the caller continued to blackmail her and instil fear in her of an action, she ended up transferring Rs 19 crore of her lifetime savings and assets in three months to 35 different bank accounts, the report claimed. The fraudsters further exploited the situation by securing a loan against the doctors gold jewellery and transferring those funds as well, according to the report. In due course of time, the doctor even started informing the callers of her whereabouts. As the calls stopped gradually, the woman informed her relatives and subsequently, a complaint was submitted to the cyber cell of CID Crime in Gujarat on July 16. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all One person from the gang was arrested in Surat as the police swung into action. The report claimed the police found Rs 1 crore of the duped funds in the bank account of the arrested person. More persons from the gang were yet to be arrested. About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. First Published: July 29, 2025, 14:26 IST News india Gujarat Doctor Duped Of Rs 19 Crore In 'Digital Arrest' Scam, One Arrested Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Pakistan Indias Wife After Op Sindoor': Hanuman Beniwal's Hilarious Remark In Parliament Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 14:03 IST RLP MP Hanuman Beniwal sparked laughter in Parliament by comparing Pakistan to India's "wife" after 'Operation Sindoor', asserting that only the vidai (brides farewell) remained. Rashtriya Loktantrik Party MP Hanuman Beniwal speaks in the Lok Sabha (Photo: PTI) Rashtriya Loktantrik Party and Nagaur MP Hanuman Beniwal on Monday said Pakistan had become Indias wife after Operation Sindoor and that it should be brought home (to India). Speaking in the Parliament, amid a fiery debate on Indias Operation Sindoor, Beniwal said that at the time of Operation Sindoor, it appeared that India was putting sindoor (vermilion) on Pakistans head. Recommended Stories You called the operation sindoor, and it appeared that India was putting sindoor (vermilion) on Pakistans hair," Beniwal said. According to Hindu beliefs, a woman considers her husband her sindoor. India put sindoor on Pakistan, so Pakistan has become its wife. Only vidai (brides farewell) is left. You go and bring Pakistan home," he said, as other members of the House burst out in laughter. Demanding answers from the government over the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, Beniwal, in the Lok Sabha, said, The government must answer how terrorists entered India and attacked tourists in Pahalgam." Tuesday was the seventh day of the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Parliament, and the debate was initiated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the debate in the evening. Leader of Opposition (LoP) Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi is likely to speak before Prime Minister Modis address in the Lower House. Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha plans to hold a 16-hour-long discussion on Indias Operation Sindoor today. The largest opposition party, Congress, has been allotted approximately two hours for discussion. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge will open the debate for them. The discussion on Operation Sindoor began in the Lok Sabha on Monday afternoon, when the Lower House discussed Indias military response, amid the Oppositions demand for the same. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The discussion concluded around 1 am, with the Opposition and ruling party leaders at loggerheads with each other. ALSO READ | Pakistan Is Congresss Mistake, PoK Exists Because Of Nehrus Policies: Amit Shah In Parliament About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. First Published: July 29, 2025, 13:57 IST News india 'Pakistan Indias Wife After Op Sindoor': Hanuman Beniwal's Hilarious Remark In Parliament Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'I Failed Everywhere In Life': Pune Techie Exits Office Meeting Midway, Jumps To Death Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 09:25 IST A handwritten suicide note was recovered at the scene. In the note, Piyush expressed deep regret and a sense of personal failure. The techie's suicide note did not mention anything about stress. (Pic: Social Media) A 23-year-old IT engineer working with a multinational company in Punes Hinjewadi IT Park died by suicide on Monday morning after jumping from the seventh floor of his office building. The deceased, identified as Piyush Ashok Kawade, had been employed with Atlas Copco in Hinjewadi Phase One for over a year and a half. Originally from Nashik, Piyush was reportedly attending a meeting when he abruptly excused himself, citing chest pain, before proceeding to the terrace and taking the extreme step. According to police officials, the incident took place around 10:30 am and left colleagues and staff members in shock. He left the meeting midway, claiming chest discomfort, and minutes later jumped off the seventh floor," a senior police official said. Recommended Stories A handwritten suicide note was recovered at the scene. In the note, Piyush expressed deep regret and a sense of personal failure. I have failed everywhere in life. Forgive me," he wrote, adding in a message to his father that he felt he did not deserve to be his son and apologised for his actions. The note, while emotionally charged, did not cite any work-related stress or professional issues as a reason for the suicide. Senior Police Inspector Balaji Pandre confirmed the incident and stated that further investigation is underway. We are speaking to colleagues and reviewing CCTV footage. While the note did not mention workplace issues, we are exploring all possible angles to understand what may have triggered this act," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The tragic incident has sent ripples through the Hinjewadi IT corridor, raising questions about the silent mental health struggles faced by young professionals. Police have not ruled out any possibilities and are awaiting further details from the deceaseds family and workplace. Suicide Prevention: If you or someone you know needs help, call any of these helplines: Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata) About the Author Abhro Banerjee Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 08:57 IST News india 'I Failed Everywhere In Life': Pune Techie Exits Office Meeting Midway, Jumps To Death Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'India Achieved Target...Pakistan Now Knows': PM Modi Shuts Down Opposition Over Op Sindoor Criticism Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 20:01 IST PM Narendra Modi said with 'Operation Sindoor', India achieved its target and that was to show any future aggressors that it can go to any extent PM Narendra Modi speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha at the monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi on July 29. (Image: Sansad TV/PTI) Responding to opposition leader Rahul Gandhis remarks on the new normal", Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said terror masterminds now know that India will attack and Pakistan has realised that its neighbours response will be tougher than before. Modi said with Operation Sindoor, India achieved its target and that was to show any future aggressors that it can go to any extent. Recommended Stories Follow Parliament Operation Sindoor Debate LIVE Updates Here His comments came as Gandhi, who spoke before him during the ongoing monsoon session of Parliament, accused the central government of lacking political will to support the Indian armed forces. Pakistan now knows that Indias response is tougher than before. It realises that in future, India can go to any extent. The situation has changed now. Masterminds of terror know India will come and attack," Modi said during the debate on Operation Sindoor, which was a military retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives on April 22. Terrorist bases were destroyed in Pakistanwe achieved what we decided. Some people are interested in wilful amnesia, but India does not forget. We remember from Day 1, it was clear that our target is terrorists and their infrastructure and we did it," he said, adding that India achieved its target 100 percent". The Prime Minister said the military gave a decisive response when Pakistan chose to brazenly back terrorists. We ensured that both Pakistans army and we clearly understood each others intentions. We, therefore, communicated our objective to them," he added. ALSO READ | Op Sindoor Ceasefire, Pahalgam Diplomacy & More: How Ministers Countered 5 Opposition Questions top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He further said Indias missiles and drones caused unimaginable loss, forcing Pakistan to its knees. The armed forces showed Pakistan that they had destroyed terror sites within minutes, making our capabilities clear to them. The world saw the strength of self-reliant India during Operation Sindoor. We destroyed terror sites deep inside Pakistan within 22 minutes to avenge the April 22 Pahalgam attack," he added. About the Author Oindrila Mukherjee Oindrila Mukherjee is a senior sub-editor who works for the rewrite and breaking news desks. Her nine years of experience in print and digital journalism range from editing and reporting to writing impactful st... Read More Oindrila Mukherjee is a senior sub-editor who works for the rewrite and breaking news desks. Her nine years of experience in print and digital journalism range from editing and reporting to writing impactful st... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 19:37 IST News india 'India Achieved Target...Pakistan Now Knows': PM Modi Shuts Down Opposition Over Op Sindoor Criticism Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... India Called Pakistan's Nuclear Bluff, Some Of Their Airbases Still In ICU: PM Modi On Op Sindoor Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 19:46 IST Operation Sindoor Debate in Lok Sabha: We showed India's tactical brilliance and targeted Pakistan's air bases and assets, some of which are still in the ICU, said PM Modi PM Modi said he ordered a strong response to terror. (File) Operation Sindoor Debate in Parliament: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha, said that such was Indias attack that some of Pakistans air bases and assets are still in the ICU. India has proved that nuclear blackmailing will not work anymore and neither will India bow down to this nuclear blackmailing. Pakistans airbases and assets have suffered heavy damage. And to date, many of their airbases are in the ICU," said PM Modi. Recommended Stories The cruel incident that happened in Pahalgam on April 22, the way terrorists shot innocent people after asking them about their religion, was the height of cruelty. This was a well-thought-out attempt to throw India into the fire of violence. This was a conspiracy to spread riots in India. Today I thank the countrymen that the country foiled that conspiracy with unity," said Modi. I had returned from Saudi and called a meeting. I ordered a strong response to terrorThe Army was given full freedom to act. They had to decide when, where and how they will present a challenge. I said clearly in the meeting and this was reported in the media as well," said the PM. Right after the Pahalgam terrorist attack, Pakistan Forces had an idea that India would indeed take major action. They started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of 6-7 May, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything. Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks." #WATCH | Discussion on Operation Sindoor | PM Narendra Modi says, Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks."Right after Pahalgam terrorist attack, Pakistan Forces had this idea that India would indeed take a major action. They started pic.twitter.com/6GcxPcS0As ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 Terrorist bases were destroyed in Pakistan. No one could have imagined that anyone can reach there. Bahawalpur, Muridke, have been razed to the ground. Our forces destroyed the terrorist bases," said the PM. In Indias response to Pakistans nuclear threat, the PM said, We have proved Pakistans nuclear threat to be false. India has proved that nuclear blackmailing will not work anymore and neither will India bow down to this nuclear blackmailing." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Hailing Indias technical capability, the PM said, We struck Pakistan precisely on the chest. Pakistans airbases and assets have suffered heavy damage. And to date, many of their airbases are in the ICU. This is the era of technology-based war. If we had not made the preparations that we have done in the last 10 years, then we could imagine how much loss we could have suffered in this era of technology." Highlighting the fifth aspect of Operation Sindoor, the PM said, For the first time, the world recognised the power of self-reliant India. Made in India drones, missiles exposed Pakistans weapon system" About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 18:33 IST News india India Called Pakistan's Nuclear Bluff, Some Of Their Airbases Still In ICU: PM Modi On Op Sindoor Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'India Has Corrected Indus Treaty Mistake': PM Modi Says Blood And Water Can't Flow Together Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 20:27 IST PM Narendra Modi criticised the Congress for the Indus Waters Treaty, accusing Nehru of giving 80% of India's water to Pakistan, claiming it betrayed India's interests. PM Modi in Lok Sabha. (Sansad TV) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on previous Congress government of mortgaging Indias interests through Indus Waters Treaty. While speaking during the special discussion in the Lok Sabha on Indias strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam," the Prime Minister said that the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru agreed to give 80% of Indias water to Pakistan. Recommended Stories It has been a long-standing habit of the Congress to mortgage Indias interests. The biggest example of this is the Indus Waters Treaty, signed by Pandit Nehru. Those rivers are part of Indias civilisational identity, our very roots are connected to them. Pandit Nehru agreed to give 80% of Indias water to Pakistan." VIDEO | Prime Minister Narendra Modi (@narendramodi), speaking in the Lok Sabha, says, It has been a long-standing habit of the Congress to mortgage Indias interests. The biggest example of this is the Indus Waters Treaty, signed by Pandit Nehru. Those rivers are part of pic.twitter.com/7OJtiMwKCF Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 29, 2025 He further said that the treaty was a big betrayal for India as the country was left with only 20% of the Indus River system. Can anyone explain the mindset behind such a decision? We were left with only 20% of the Indus River system. They gave 80% to a country that openly calls itself Indias enemy" he added. The Prime Minister further said, that the then government gave authority to World Bank to decide on Indus and its waters. In 1961, Nehru accepted he hoped the Indus water treaty would pave the way for resolving other issues, but we remain stuck. Nehru understood that diplomacy which ignored the existence of the farmers entirely. Nehru agreed to Pakistans demand that India would not clean or desilt the waste that comes into the dam built on the Indian side," he added. Also Read: Bahut Mara: In Parliament, PM Modi Says Indias Retaliation Forced Pakistan To Seek Ceasefire He said that without Indus Water Treaty, western India would have had major projects, farmers would get water, drinking water issues would ease, and India could produce more electricity. The Prime Minister later asserted that the Indus Waters Treaty would be kept in abeyance, saying that blood and water cannot flow together. He said there was an atmosphere of insecurity before 2014, and several lives were lost due to a weak" Congress government. Also Read: Revenge Of April 22 In 22 Minutes: PM Modi Says India Struck Terror Camps Deep Inside Pakistan Following the Pahalgam terror attack in April, Indias Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) suspended the decades-old Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan indefinitely. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all India and Pakistan signed the Indus Waters Treaty in 1960, with the World Bank as an additional signatory. The pact sought to divide the water of the Indus river and its tributaries equitably between the two countries. Under the treaty, water from three eastern riversBeas, Ravi, and Sutlejwas allocated to India, and that from the three western riversChenab, Indus, and Jhelumto Pakistan. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 20:04 IST News india 'India Has Corrected Indus Treaty Mistake': PM Modi Says Blood And Water Can't Flow Together Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Intel Input, Eye In The Sky: How Operation Mahadev Traced And Eliminated Pahalgam Terrorists Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 13:57 IST CNN-News18 learned that on Saturday, a suspicious communication sent from a satellite phone, heightened suspicion that Suleiman Shah and his associates were hiding in Dachigam. Security personnel during a cordon and search operation, near Dachigam in Srinagar district, Jammu and Kashmir, Monday, July 28, 2025, after three terrorists were killed in an encounter. (Image: PTI) Three terrorists involved in the Pahalgam terror attack Suleiman alias Faizal Jat, Jibran, and Hamza Afghani were neutralised in Dachigam forest in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday as part of Operation Mahadev, Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed to Parliament on Tuesday. Shah stated that the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report of the cartridges found in Pahalgam matched the M9 and two AK-47 rifles recovered in Dachigam. The rifles underwent forensic testing in Chandigarh to corroborate the Pahalgam evidence. Recommended Stories The National Investigation Agency (NIA) also asked the arrested harbourers to identify the deceased terrorists. The identification was confirmed after NIA brought the previously arrested harbourers from Kot Lakhpat Jail to the encounter site for on-the-spot verification. How was this accomplished? On May 22, a specific intelligence input was received by the Intelligence Bureau (IB), as relayed by Home Minister Amit Shah to the Lok Sabha. This input was further refined using advanced technical surveillance and Operation Mahadev was launched. CNN-News18 learned that on Saturday, a suspicious communication sent from a satellite phone, which had been under surveillance since the Pahalgam incident, heightened suspicion that Suleiman Shah and his associates were hiding in Dachigam. Given the high altitude and dense forest cover, pinpointing the heavily armed terrorists was challenging. Officials stated that a quadcopter was deployed to pinpoint the terrorists hiding location. Equipped with both human and technical intelligence, a joint operation involving army para commandos, CRPF, and Jammu and Kashmir police was launched. Sources confirmed that all three were Pakistani nationals and part of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror group. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The mastermind, identified as Suleiman Shah, was killed during a surprise offensive launched by security forces after intercepting the technical signal, the satellite phone transmission, believed to have been used by the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack. Officials said the other two slain terrorists were identified as Jibran, who was allegedly linked to last years Sonamarg Tunnel attack, and Hamza Afghani. All three were neutralised in the joint operation, which was backed by sustained intelligence inputs over the past month. About the Author Arunima Arunima is Editor (Home Affairs) and covers strategic, security and political affairs. From the Ukraine-Russia War to the India-China stand-off in Ladakh to India-Pak clashes, she has reported from ground zero ... Read More Arunima is Editor (Home Affairs) and covers strategic, security and political affairs. From the Ukraine-Russia War to the India-China stand-off in Ladakh to India-Pak clashes, she has reported from ground zero ... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 13:18 IST News india Intel Input, Eye In The Sky: How Operation Mahadev Traced And Eliminated Pahalgam Terrorists Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Justice Delivered, Im Proud of Indian Army: Daughter Of Pahalgam Attack Victim After Killing Of Three Terrorists Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 14:10 IST N. Ramachandran was among the 26 people, mostly tourists, who were killed in the brutal terror attack in Baisaran, Pahalgam. 26 tourists were killed in Baisaran on April 22. (Image: PTI/S Irfan) In an exclusive conversation with CNN-News18, Arathy R Menon, daughter of Pahalgam terror attack victim N. Ramachandran, expressed deep gratitude and pride after the killing of the terrorists involved in the April 22 massacre. Justice delivered," Arathy said, her voice steady but emotional. As a survivor, we were waiting for this day," she added, referring to the elimination of the three Lashkar terrorists in the recent Dachigam encounter under Operation Mahadev. Recommended Stories Expressing her appreciation for the countrys leadership and armed forces, Arathy said, I deeply feel proud of the Indian Army. I am grateful to the commitment of our Prime Minister and Defence Minister." She also praised the professionalism and sensitivity of the investigators involved in the case. The investigators made me very comfortable," she noted, acknowledging their support throughout the long and painful wait for justice. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all N. Ramachandran was among the 26 people, mostly tourists, who were killed in the brutal terror attack in Baisaran, Pahalgam. The encounter that led to the death of the attackers has brought a sense of closure for several victims families including Arathy, who described it as a long-awaited moment of accountability. Three terrorists, possibly including Pahalgam attack mastermind Suleiman, have been killed in a gunfight with security forces in the upper reaches of the Dachigam forest near Srinagar. The encounter unfolded as part of a large-scale joint operation by the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police, launched after gunshots were heard in the area About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 14:10 IST News india Justice Delivered, Im Proud of Indian Army: Daughter Of Pahalgam Attack Victim After Killing Of Three Terrorists Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Justice Served: Families Of Pahalgam Victims Hail Security Forces After Mastermind's Encounter Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 17:06 IST Families of Pahalgam attack victims praised Indian Armed Forces and J&K Police for eliminating three terrorists in Operation Mahadev. Designating TRF as Foreign Terrorist Organisation carries significant legal ramifications, including stringent financial sanctions. (AP Image) The families of Pahalgam terror attack victims have hailed the Indian Armed Forces paramilitary forces, and the Jammu and Kashmir Police for eliminating three terrorists involved in the terror attack during Operation Mahadev. For the family of Bharath Bushan, one of the tourists who was killed in front of their families after confirming their religious identity in Pahalgam on April 22, the news of the killing of the mastermind has brought a sense of relief. Recommended Stories His father Chennaveerappa said the killing of his son in the terror attack was a very barbarous act" and the killing of terrorists has definitely brought some solace to the grieving families who lost their sons. "Hereafter, I think the government should ensure that no terrorists enter our land and kill innocent people This should not happen again and the government should make sure that military personnel are posted in such areas," he said to news agency PTI. He said deploying army personnel at the tourist spot could have prevented the attack and 26 precious lives could have been saved. Calling for an end to cross-border terrorism, he said, The government should be alert and avoid cross border terrorismEnd terrorism and they have to see that Pakistan learns a lesson in this regard. Of course Modi has done a good work. He killed terrorists he informed the whole world that we are against terrorism." Bushans brother, Preetham, however lamented that nothing could bring his brother back. We are not going to get my brother back but I am very sure that the government and the armed forces have eliminated such evil people who would cause such kind of trauma for many other families so from that perspective, we are very happy that such kind of people who did brutal killing of innocent tourists have been eliminated," he said. Asmat Jan, sister of Adil Hussain, who lost his life in the attack, said that she is very proud of her brother who lost his life while saving the lives of the tourists. We are very proud of our brother who lost his life while saving the lives of those tourists. We are very happy and proud of the Indian army," she said as quoted by news agency ANI. He another sister, Ravesa Jan, said, Our brother has got the justice. We are very proud of the Indian Army that they avenged our brother and also avenged all those who lost their lives in that attack." #WATCH | Anantnag, J&K: On all 3 terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack being killed in Operation Mahadev, the sister of Adil Hussain, who lost his life in the attack, Ravesa Jan, says, Our brother has got the justice. We are very proud of the Indian Army that they avenged pic.twitter.com/U6ARse1oQ2 ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 Earlier on Monday, the brother of a pony handler, who was killed in the attack, welcomed the reports of the death of the attacks mastermind saying that it was akin to justice. We are thankful to our governmentI also got to know that they were behind the Pahalgam attack. We are proud of our armed forcesthis is justice for the families of the victims," Syed Naushad Shah, brother of Syed Adil Hussain Shah, told CNN-News18. We have got justice, we are happy. They should be finished, who kill innocent people," he added. Operation Mahadev In a major breakthrough, the Armys elite para commandos on Monday gunned down Sulieman alias Asif, the alleged mastermind of the April 22 attack, along with two of his associates, in an encounter at Mulnar in Harwan area near Dachigam National Park. The security forces launched a surprise action, codenamed Operation Mahadev, following a technical signal indicating the use of a satellite phone that was used by the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack. The other terrorists killed in the action have been identified as Jibran, who was allegedly involved in the Sonamarg Tunnel attack last year, and Hamza Afghani. Pahalgam Terror Attack In one of the biggest attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, Lashkar-linked terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists in Pahalgam on Tuesday, April 22, killing at least 26 people, including foreign tourists, and injuring many others. The Resistance Front (TRF), a Lashkar offshoot, claimed responsibility for the attack, although it later backtracked after massive global outrage. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all India responded with Operation Sindoor on May 7, bombing nine terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in pre-dawn strikes that killed at least 100 militants. The operation sparked four days of cross-border fighting involving fighter jets, missiles and artillery. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 17:06 IST News india Justice Served: Families Of Pahalgam Victims Hail Security Forces After Mastermind's Encounter Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Low On Supplies & Water, Fear Of Exposure: How Pahalgam Terrorists Were Traced, Tracked, Killed | Exclusive Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 16:35 IST Intelligence inputs revealed that the terrorists were receiving logistical supportincluding food and suppliesfrom local sympathisers who have since been intercepted Three terrorists were killed in the Dachigam encounter on Monday. (File image/PTI After the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, since May, multiple units of the Indian Army, Rashtriya Rifles, CRPF, and Jammu & Kashmir Police have been deployed to high-altitude areas ranging from 5,000 to 13,000 feet. There were several instances where groups of terrorists were detected through intercepted communication sets. However, these sets often went silent before security forces could act on them effectively. To intensify the operation, Tactical Operating Bases (TOBs) were established across various strategic locations. Senior-level officers were stationed at these bases to coordinate and oversee the efforts until the region was cleared of terrorists hiding in the upper reaches of J&K. Recommended Stories According to sources, specialised teams were formed, combining manual efforts with advanced technical surveillance systems to trace, track, and intercept terrorist movements. A senior intelligence officer was appointed to lead the input coordination, as confirmed by top sources in the intelligence community. Intelligence inputs revealed that the terrorists were receiving logistical supportincluding food and suppliesfrom local sympathisers who have since been intercepted. Security forces also identified and restricted access to water sources being used by the terrorists. One particular area around Dachigam was cordoned off by security forces, who began collecting more detailed intelligence regarding the terrorists weapons, food supplies, and movement patterns. It was noticed that the terrorists were low on supplies, afraid of moving out, and under pressure to expose themselves. Several of their communication sets were successfully intercepted during this period. Roughly a week ago, the Intelligence Bureau (IB) received a critical tip-off from its cultivated assets indicating that a group of terrorists was hiding in the Dachigam area. Their identities were confirmed through both technical and human intelligence inputs. Based on intercepted communications, the search zone was narrowed down to a 1-kilometre radius. Ultimately, a surgical operation led by Para Special Forces neutralised three top terrorists: Suleman, alias Faizal Bhatt, Jibran, and Afghan. Suleman was a senior operative affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). All three were classified as A-grade terrorists. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," union home minister Amit Shah said in Parliament on Tuesday. We have their voter ID numbers. The rifles and cartridges used were made in Pakistan." Providing more details, he said, All three terroristsSuleman, Afghan, and Jibranwere killed in yesterdays operation. The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier. Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by those who were kept detained by our agencies." About the Author Ankur Sharma With over 15 years of journalistic experience, Ankur Sharma, Associate Editor, specializes in internal security and is tasked with providing comprehensive coverage from the Ministry of Home Affairs, paramilitar... Read More With over 15 years of journalistic experience, Ankur Sharma, Associate Editor, specializes in internal security and is tasked with providing comprehensive coverage from the Ministry of Home Affairs, paramilitar... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 16:30 IST News india Low On Supplies & Water, Fear Of Exposure: How Pahalgam Terrorists Were Traced, Tracked, Killed | Exclusive Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'India Now Has Sindoor Spirit': What PM Modi Said In Lok Sabha Debate | Top Quotes Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 21:30 IST PM Narendra Modi also congratulated the post-Operation Sindoor delegation diplomacy by all-party teams to spread the message of Pakistan's links to cross-border terror networks PM Narendra Modi speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha at the monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi on July 29. (Image: Sansad TV/PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday tore into the opposition for its questions on Operation Sindoor the retaliatory action against Pakistan by Indian armed forces following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. Modi said it was this attitude of the Congress that had led to weak governance" under previous regimes, resulting in the loss of civilian lives in terror attacks. Recommended Stories Even if our hearts dont align with a partys interests, they must align with the nations," Modi said during the debate on Operation Sindoor at the ongoing monsoon session of Parliament. He spoke after Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. He congratulated the delegation diplomacy by all-party teams to spread the message of Pakistans links to cross-border terror networks. The country now has a Sindoor spirit, which we saw when our representatives went to tell the world about Indias side. I congratulate each one of them," he said. The Prime Minister took a dig at the opposition, accusing it of finding new excuses" to oppose army operations and said the entire country is laughing" at them. He specifically targeted the Congress and accused it of opposing the armed forces. Terrorists are crying, their masterminds are crying and seeing them cry, some people are crying here too. They tried to play a game during the surgical strike; it didnt work. During the airstrike, they tried playing another game. That didnt work either. When Operation Sindoor took place, they adopted a new tactic Why did you stop?waah re bayan bahaduron! You need one or the other excuse to oppose. So, not just me but the entire country is laughing at you," he said. WHAT PM MODI SAID On Pahalgam Attack, Successful Operation Sindoor I told the media this Parliament session is a victory celebration for reducing Pakistans terror headquarters to dust. I stand here to present Indias side. And to hold up a mirror to those who refuse to see it." Terrorists shot innocents after asking their religion, a cruel, planned attempt to incite riots. I thank the nation for staying united and defeating the conspiracy. This was a well-thought out attempt to throw India into the fire of violence. This was a conspiracy to spread riots in India." On Action By Armed Forces, Pakistans Nuclear Threats Our armed forces avenged April 22 within 22 minutes with precision attacks. Right after Pahalgam terrorist attack, Pakistani forces had this idea that India would indeed take a major action. They started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of May 6-7, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything." India has proved that nuclear blackmailing will not work anymore and neither will India bow down to this nuclear blackmailing. Pakistans airbases and assets have suffered heavy damage. And to date, many of their airbases are in ICU." We went where we hadnt before; into every corner of Pakistan and blew up their terror hideoutsBahawalpur, Muridke have been razed to the groundIndia has shown its technical capability. It has struck Pakistan precisely on the chest." On Indias New Normal We ensured that both Pakistans army and we clearly understood each others intentions. We therefore communicated our objective to them, which we achieved 100 percent." Pakistan shamelessly supported terrorists, but Indias army gave a response theyll remember for years. Pakistans DGMO called, saying, Stop it, weve taken enough hits." Pakistan now knows that Indias response is tougher than before. It realises that in future, India can go to any extent." On JD Vances Phone Call On the night of the 9th, the US Vice President tried to reach me for an hour. When I called back, he warned of a major Pakistani attack. I replied, If thats their plan, theyll pay dearly." On PoK Reclamation, Indus Waters Treaty In 1971, we captured 1,000 Pakistani soldiers and large parts of Pakistan. With more vision, PoK could have been reclaimed then." Pledging Indias interests is Congress habit. The Indus Waters Treaty gave Pakistan 80% of the water. What diplomacy is this?" In 1961, Nehru accepted and he hoped the Indus Waters Treaty would pave the way for resolving other issues, but we remain stuck. Nehru understood that diplomacy which ignored the existence of the farmers entirely." I have said this earlier too that India is a land of Buddha, not yuddha (war). We want prosperity and peace. But we should never forget that the path to prosperity and peace passes through strength" On Congress and Pakistan A lot was said here on Indias foreign policy. There were discussions on global support toowe received global support. But unfortunately, the valour of the brave jawans of my country did not get the support of Congress." India is marching ahead with self-reliance, while the Congress is importing issues from Pakistan just to stay politically relevant. The Congress has turned into a spokesperson for Pakistans propaganda and conspiracies." Just 3-4 days after the April 22 terrorist attack, they (Congress) started jumping up and down. They started saying, Kahaan gayi 56 inch ki chhati? Kahan kho gaya Modi? Modi has failedthey were shaping their politics even in the murder of innocent people in Pahalgam." The Congress has a long history of opposing our armed forces. Just recently, we celebrated Kargil Vijay Diwas but the country knows that the Congress has never truly owned or honoured that victory." First, they refused to accept that Operation Sindoor even happened. Now theyre asking why it was stopped. The Congress always finds some excuse to oppose. The whole country is laughing at them." On Self-Reliant India The world now recognises Atmanirbhar Bharat. Made-in-India drones and missiles have exposed the shortcomings of Pakistans weapons." On Indias Air Defence System, Defence Manufacturing On May 9, Pakistan launched nearly 1,000 missiles and drones at India. But Indias air defences shot them down mid-air, wiping out the threat completely." I thank the 25-30 year-olds working in private defence production they played a vital role in Operation Sindoor." Make in India weapons played a decisive role in Operation Sindoor Our historic defence manufacturing was deliberately weakened after independence." PM Modis Poetic Side We may not see eye to eye when it comes to party interests, but for the good of the nation, our hearts must come together." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Engage in debate; debate with such intensity that it shakes the enemy. But keep one thing sacred: amid all questions, let your respect for the soldiers sacrifice and a mothers sindoor remain unwavering." Should Mother India come under attack, we must strike with unrelenting force. No matter where the enemy lurks, our lives must be devoted to the service of Bharat." About the Author Oindrila Mukherjee Oindrila Mukherjee is a senior sub-editor who works for the rewrite and breaking news desks. Her nine years of experience in print and digital journalism range from editing and reporting to writing impactful st... Read More Oindrila Mukherjee is a senior sub-editor who works for the rewrite and breaking news desks. Her nine years of experience in print and digital journalism range from editing and reporting to writing impactful st... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 21:16 IST News india 'India Now Has Sindoor Spirit': What PM Modi Said In Lok Sabha Debate | Top Quotes Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... PM Modi Credits Indigenous Weapons For Op Sindoor, Blames Congress For Weakening Defence Sector Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 20:31 IST PM Modi praised 'Make In India' for Operation Sindoor's success with indigenous weapons and criticised Congress for weakening defense manufacturing. PM Modi said India took action against Pakistan from Sindoor to Sindhu. (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday emphasised on Make In India initiative saying that the indigenously developed weapons played a decisive role in Operation Sindoor- Indias military strikes against Pakistan in response to Pahalgam terror attack. While speaking during the special discussion in the Lok Sabha on Indias strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam," the Prime Minister highlighted that for the first time since independence, his government took bold steps in defence sector and strengthened manufacturing. Recommended Stories PM Modi further thanked the young generation working in private sector for the prodcution of defence weapons. I thank the 25-30 year-olds working in private defence production for playing a vital role in Operation Sindoor." He further said that his government established the position of Chief of Defence Staff. We initiated a series of response- some even for the first time in Independence like Chief of Defence staff. our government brought reforms. I commend the three forces for accepting these changes," he added. He also lashed out at the previous Congress governments for deliberately weakening the defence manufacturing in the country. Our historic defence manufacturing was deliberately weakened after independence. Under Congress, self-reliance for the armed forces was ignored. They chased personal gains in defence deals," he said. On one hand, India is moving ahead at a fast pace towards self-reliance, but Congress is becoming dependent on Pakistan for issues. Unfortunately, Congress is importing issues from Pakistan" he added. The Prime Minister further asserted that the BJP has always put nations interest prior to everything else owing to which the decisions became productive. Earlier today, Rajnath Singh said, I am proud to say that our Air Defence system, Counter-Drone system, and electronic equipment completely foiled this attack by Pakistan. Pakistan could not hit any of our targets, and none of our important assets were damaged. Our security arrangements were impregnable, and every attack was thwarted." During Operation Sindoor, Indias Akash missile defence system and security shields like the S-400 fortified the nations defences. Pakistan launched a wave of drone attacks using UAVs acquired from Turkey. While Pakistan rained drones, Indias defence system proved strong, intercepting and destroying about 99 percent of them in time. On the intervening night of May 7 and 8, Pakistan attempted to engage a number of military targets in northern and western India, including Awantipora, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankote, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj, using drones and missiles. These were neutralised by the Integrated Counter UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) Grid and Air Defence systems. Air Defence systems detect, track, and neutralise threats using a network of radars, control centres, artillery, and both aircraft- and ground-based missiles. On the morning of May 8, the armed forces targeted air defence radars and systems at a number of locations in Pakistan. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all India used battle-proven air defence systems like the Pechora, OSA-AK and LLAD guns (low-level air defence guns), as well as indigenous systems such as the Akash, which demonstrated stellar performance. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 20:16 IST News india PM Modi Credits Indigenous Weapons For Op Sindoor, Blames Congress For Weakening Defence Sector Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Inaccurate': MEA Sources Deny Grand Mufti's 'Nimisha Priya Death Sentence Cancelled' Claim Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 09:03 IST The government sources have denied the claims made by Grand Mufti of India" Kanthapuram AP Abubakar Musliyar, that Nimisha Priya's death sentence has been overturned in Yemen. MEA sources react to Nimisha Priya's death sentence overturned claim (News18 Hindi) The government has refuted claims made by Grand Mufti of India Kanthapuram AP Abubakar Musliyar regarding Nimisha Priyas death sentence as inaccurate", sources said on Tuesday. The Grand Mufti claimed in a statement on Monday that the death sentence of Indian national Nimish Priya has been completely overturned in Yemen. It had, however, added that it has yet to receive an official written communication from the Yemeni authorities. Recommended Stories Information being shared by certain individuals on the Nimisha Priya case is inaccurate," MEA sources said today. Priya, a 37-year-old nurse from Kerala, was convicted of killing a Yemeni national named Mahdi in 2017 and was sentenced to death in 2018. She was scheduled to be executed on July 16 this year; however, it was postponed. It was earlier reported that the decision of complete overturn of her death sentence was taken during a high-level meeting in Sanaa, where senior Yemeni scholars chosen by Sheikh Umar Hafeel Thangal at the request of the Indian Grand Mufti held talks with Northern Yemens rulers and international diplomats. Musliyars office had further claimed that some key decisions pertaining to the case were also made; however, further deliberations were expected. What Is Murder Case Against Nimisha Priya? Nimisha Priya moved to Yemen in 2008 and partnered with a Yemeni national, Mahdi, in 2015 to help manage a medical clinic. Yemeni laws do not allow foreign nationals to fully own such businesses on their own, so Mahdis involvement was necessary legally. However, Nimisha later claimed that the partnership became abusive. She accused Mahdi of taking her passport, misusing money from the clinic, physically abusing her, and controlling her movements. In July 2017, she injected Mahdi with sedatives in an effort to retrieve the passport. However, the dose turned out to be fatal for him. In a panic, she and a colleague cut up Mahdis body and hid the remains in a water tank to cover up the incident. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all She was picked up at a border checkpost in August that year, and in 2018, she was sentenced to death by a criminal court, which ruled that she had administered drugs without authorisation, which killed Mahdi. She was also convicted of trying to conceal the act. Nimishas appeals were rejected by higher courts, and in November 2023, Yemens Supreme Judicial Council confirmed her death sentence. Her execution was officially set for July 16, 2025. About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 08:37 IST News india 'Inaccurate': MEA Sources Deny Grand Mufti's 'Nimisha Priya Death Sentence Cancelled' Claim Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... NISAR Satellite Will Monitor Earth Like Never Before, Says NASA As India Prepares For Lift-Off Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 12:35 IST Equipped with dual-frequency radar and the largest-ever antenna ever deployed in space, NISAR is the most expensive earth-observation satellite ever built, at $1.5 billion. The much-anticipated NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) is one of the biggest Indo-US satellite missions. At 5:40 pm on July 30, Indias heaviest rocket GSLV, will lift off from Sriharikota carrying the most sophisticated radar satellite ever built. The 2393-kg satellite developed at a cost of $1.5 billion, marks the culmination of a decade of hard-work by scientists from NASA and ISRO who persevered through the pandemic to bring the mission to fruition. Everything looks good. The rocket is set. The weather is fine. We are ready to go," said Phil Barela, NISAR Project Manager from Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in the pre-launch briefing 48 hours before the lift-off. A team of scientists from NASA-JPL is currently in India working closely with ISRO scientists, as the much-anticipated Indo-US satellite mission gears up for take-off. Recommended Stories The much-anticipated NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) is one of the biggest Indo-US satellite missions that will provide a three-dimensional view of Earth in unprecedented detail. The first-of-its-kind satellite will scan nearly all the Earths land and ice surfaces twice every 12 days, observing changes as small as a centimeter with high-resolution imagery, collecting earth observation like no other NASA satellite before it. We already have over two dozen missions in orbit observing Earth, but NISAR is a groundbreaking mission. It will advance our understanding significantly, with the ability to detect changes as small as a centimetre regardless of the weather conditions. It has brought India and the US together to study Earth like never before," said Karen St Germain, Director of Earth science at NASA on Monday. The satellite will provide a detailed record of how Earths land and oceans are changing over time boosting climate research. The data will help scientists see the precursors to natural hazards like landslides, earthquakes and volcanoes to aid in disaster warnings and preparedness. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The satellite worth $1.5 billion with NASA accounting for roughly $1.2 billion is one of the most expensive earth-imaging satellites ever built. While NASA has contributed the L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar a high-rate telecommunication subsystem, GPS receivers and a deployable 12-meter unfurlable antenna. ISRO, on its part has provided the S-band SAR payload, the spacecraft bus to accommodate both payloads, the GSLV rocket and all associated launch services. The spacecraft will bounce microwave signals off Earths surface and receive the return signals on a radar antenna reflector measuring 12 meters. Result about 80 terabytes of data products per day over the course of NISARs prime mission. The information will be processed, stored and distributed via the cloud freely accessible to all. Any process that moves the land even by just a few millimeters NISAR will observe. No other Earth-monitoring mission offers this level of detail and frequency," noted Gerald Bawden, NISAR Program Scientist at NASA. About the Author Srishti Choudhary Srishti Choudhary, Senior Assistant Editor at CNN-News18 specializes in science, environment, and climate change reporting. With over a decade of extensive field experience, she has brought incisive ground repo... Read More Srishti Choudhary, Senior Assistant Editor at CNN-News18 specializes in science, environment, and climate change reporting. With over a decade of extensive field experience, she has brought incisive ground repo... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 12:35 IST News india NISAR Satellite Will Monitor Earth Like Never Before, Says NASA As India Prepares For Lift-Off Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Not In Employees Benefit: Karnataka Opposes Centres 10-Hour Workday Proposal Reported By : CNN-News18 Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 23:34 IST The Karnataka government plans to reject the Centre's proposal to extend daily working hours from 9 to 10 (AI-generated photo: Minister Lad indicated that while the state is open to dialogue if specific industries demand such a change) The Karnataka government is all set to reject the Centres proposal to amend the Karnataka Shops and Establishments Act of 1961, which would extend the daily working hours from 9 to 10, while maintaining the weekly cap at 48 hours. The state government asserts that the proposed change offers no discernible benefit to employees and is currently awaiting a formal decision from the Chief Minister and the Cabinet. Recommended Stories Karnatakas Labour Minister, Santhosh Lad, highlighted the states reservations, emphasising the potential hardship for workers. In a city like Bangalore, on average, you need 2 hours to commute, and if they spend 10 hours on the floor, its 12 hours in a day," Lad stated. I dont see this benefiting the employees." He further noted the lack of positive reception to the idea among Human Resources professionals at a recent congregation, where a poll for support yielded no raised hands. The states rejection of the proposal is grounded in two key argumentsfirst, labour is a subject under the Concurrent List, granting Karnataka equal policy-making authority and competence; and second, Karnatakas current labour framework already includes provisions for overtime work beyond the standard 9 hours daily and 48 hours weekly. Minister Lad indicated that while the state is open to dialogue if specific industries demand such a change, any discussion would involve careful consideration of employee sentiment and the presence of trade unions. He affirmed his intention to discuss the matter with the Chief Minister before a final government decision. Meanwhile, the Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees Union (KITU) has claimed victory, attributing the governments current stance to their sustained agitation. KITU, the sole registered union for IT sector employees in Karnataka, stated that they have been leading extensive campaigns against the proposed amendment. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In a strong statement, KITU asserted that the amendment was a direct attack on a workers fundamental right to a personal life" and vowed to prevent its implementation under any circumstances. A formal decision on the matter is expected soon from the Chief Minister and the Cabinet. About the Author Harish Upadhya Harish Upadhya, an Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, reports from Bengaluru. Political reporting is his forte. He also tracks India's space journey, and is passionate about environmental reporting and RTI investi... Read More Harish Upadhya, an Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, reports from Bengaluru. Political reporting is his forte. He also tracks India's space journey, and is passionate about environmental reporting and RTI investi... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 23:29 IST News india Not In Employees Benefit: Karnataka Opposes Centres 10-Hour Workday Proposal Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Op Sindoor Ceasefire, Pahalgam Diplomacy & More: How Ministers Countered 5 Opposition Questions Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 15:12 IST Pahalgam, Sindoor & Mahadev: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah and EAM S Jaishankar offered detailed explanations answering queries raised by Opposition (From left) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in the Lok Sabha. (PTI) From ceasefire, diplomacy failure to Indias losses, security failure and Operation Mahadev, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Centre in the Lok Sabha gave a point-by-point rebuttal of Oppositions claims on Operation Sindoor. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar offered detailed explanations answering the queries raised by the Opposition on April 22 Pahalgam attack, the subsequent May 7 Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev. Recommended Stories 1. CEASEFIRE After a four-day military conflict, both India and Pakistan announced that a ceasefire had been agreed after a hotline communication between their DGMOs (Directors General of Military Operations) on May 10. However, the Opposition repeatedly raked up US President Donald Trumps remarks that he mediated and offered trade deals". What Rajnath Singh said: Operation Sindoor was halted because we had fulfilled our objectives. To say it was done under any pressure is wrong. The aim was not to capture territory but to destroy their terror nurseries. The aim was not to go to war Pakistan accepted defeat and requested that hostilities be stoppedWe accepted with a caveat. If Pakistan attempts any misadventure we will again begin this operation," said Singh. What S Jaishankar said: On May 10, we received phone calls sharing the impression of other countries that Pakistan was ready to cease the fighting. Our position was that if Pakistan was ready, we needed to get this as a request from the Pakistani side through the DGMO channel. That is exactly how that request came," said the EAM. There was no call between the prime minister and President Trump from April 22 when President Trump called up to convey his sympathy till June 17, when he called up the PM who was in Canada." What Amit Shah said: India struck 100 km inside Pakistan to destroy terror infrastructure. Six of Pakistans radar systems were destroyed. They attacked our residential areas, but we did not do the same. We only attacked their air bases and ruined their attacking capabilities. Our armed forces were intact. And their attacking capacities were destroyed. Pakistan had no option but to surrender. On May 10, the Pakistani DGMO called our DGMO, and we paused the conflict at 5 pm," said Shah. 2. DIPLOMACY FAILURE What Jaishankar said: On Oppositions claims of diplomacy failure, Jaishankar said: There were obviously a number of phone calls, a number of conversations, at my level there were 27 calls, at Prime Minister level, almost 20 calls, about 35-40 letters of support came in, and what we tried to do was to create a narrative, prepare the diplomacy for the launch of Operation Sindoor. And the result of that diplomacy, there are a 193 members of the United Nations 193. Only three, apart from Pakistan, opposed Operation Sindoor, only three. If you look through this period, and I would be very happy to share with the House the exact positions of various governments. Overwhelmingly, the worlds recognition that terrorism is unacceptable, that the country which has been attacked has a right to defend itself, and that India was doing exactly that," he said. Jaishankar highlighted the support from Quad and BRICS. Quad gave a statement which says that Quad unequivocally condemns all acts of terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations including cross- border terrorism. We condemn in strongest terms the terrorist attacks in Pahalgam on 22 April, and call for perpetrators, organizers and financers of this reprehensible act to be brought to justice without any delay," he said, adding, BRICS has China as a member, Russia as a member, it has Iran as a member, Brazil, South Africa, Egypt. BRICS also condemned the April 22 attack, it reaffirmed its commitment to combatting terrorism again including cross border terrorism." The EAM also highlighted the designation of The Resistance Front (TRF), a group of the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) which had claimed responsibility for the attack. The American designation of TRF. On the 17th of July, the Department of State designated TRF as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist. Now, this comes in the wake of extradition of Tahawwur Rana, who was involved in the 26/11 attack. And when people ask today how successful is your foreign policy, where is your diplomacy, I want to say that Tahawwur Rana, which many of you tried for so long to get, is finally here because of us. TRF was designated, not because somebody out there made a remark, TRF was designated as a Global Terrorist Organization because our diplomacy persuaded another country to do that." He described how India prepared diplomatically for the military action. What we tried to create was a narrative and prepare the diplomacy for launch of Operation Sindoor. The result of that diplomacy was that out of the 190 nations of UN only three, besides Pakistan, opposed Operation Sindoor," he said. Overwhelmingly, there was recognition that terror was unacceptable and the country which has been attacked has the right to defend itself and India was doing exactly that." What Amit Shah said: Today, China is in UN Security Council, and India is not. Modi ji is trying his best to get India to become a part of the UN Security Council. Jawaharlal Nehrus stand is responsible for thisWhen our jawans were facing Chinese soldiers in Doklam, Rahul Gandhi was holding a meeting with the Chinese ambassadorThis love for China has passed down three generations from Jawaharlal Nehru, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi," he said. 3. ON INDIAS LOSSES What Rajnath Singh said: While he did not clarify if India lost any fighter jets during the hostilities, he underscored that there was no damage to any important assets". He also said that no soldiers were harmed during the conflict. I am proud to say that our Air Defence system, Counter-Drone system, and electronic equipment completely foiled this attack by Pakistan. Pakistan could not hit any of our targets, and none of our important assets were damaged. Our security arrangements were impregnable, and every attack was thwarted," he said. Few members of the opposition have been asking how many of our aircraft were shot down? I feel their question does not adequately represent our national sentiments. They have not asked us how many enemy aircraft our armed forces shot down? If they must ask a question, it should be whether India destroyed terrorist bases, and the answer to that is, yes," he said. During the debate in Lok Sabha on Operation Sindoor, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says," I am proud to say that our Air Defence system, Counter-Drone system, and electronic equipment completely foiled this attack by Pakistan. Pakistan could not hit any of our targets, and none pic.twitter.com/YSghJWOVoy ANI (@ANI) July 28, 2025 4. SECURITY FAILURE While Shah said the responsibility of Pahalgam was with the government, he questioned what the Congress did when it was in power. He said some of those who spread terror during UPA were killed by Modi. Shah invoked the Batla House encounter and said that over 25 major attacks took place within 6 years, in which nearly 1,000 people were killed; however, the then Manmohan Singh government at the Centre did not do anything". In 2002, Atal jis NDA government had brought POTA (The Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2002). Who objected to the POTA then? It was the Congress partyAfter coming to power in 2004, the Sonia Gandhi-Manmohan Singh government scrapped the POTA lawFor whose benefit did Congress scrap POTA?" Yesterday, they (Congress) were raising questions about why there was no war Today, PoK exists only because of Jawaharlal Nehru In 1960, they gave 80% of the Indus waters to Pakistan In 1971, during the Simla Agreement, they (Congress) forgot to ask about PoK. If they had taken PoK then, we would not have to carry out attacks on camps there now Pakistan is Congresss mistake. If they had not accepted partition, there would have been no Pakistan today," said Shah. Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, "Yesterday, they (Congress) were raising questions about why there was no war.Today, PoK exists only because of Jawaharlal NehruIn 1960, they gave 80% of the Indus waters to Pakistan.In 1971, during the Simla Agreement, they (Congress) pic.twitter.com/0aWz2P3JG6 ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 5. WHERE DID TERRORISTS GO? Shah said, They were asking yesterday where the perpetrators of Pahalgam went Those who were hiding during your tenure are being searched and killed today At least 100 people have been killed by our forces On May 7, our job was completed at 1.26 am This is not Manmohan Singhs government; we will not sit quietly and send dossiers On 9th May, 11 of Pakistans air bases were destroyed Attack on eight of the air bases was so precise that it shook Pakistans air defence system" Providing a detailed timeline of the operation, Shah said Operation Mahadev was launched on May 22, 2025. A high-level security meeting was convened the same evening. The attack took place at 1 PM. I reached Srinagar by 5:30 PM," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Shah added that on the same day, the Intelligence Bureau (IB) received specific human intelligence about the terrorists presence in the Dachigam forest range. A decision was made that night that the perpetrators must not be allowed to escape to Pakistan under any circumstances. Security forces then moved swiftly to cordon off potential escape routes and track the movement of the attackers. The operation led to the successful elimination of the three Lashkar terrorists, who have been identified as Suleman alias Hashim Musa (the alleged mastermind), Jibran, and Hamza Afghani. Their presence was traced through coordinated human and technical intelligence over the course of a month-long pursuit. About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 13:59 IST News india Op Sindoor Ceasefire, Pahalgam Diplomacy & More: How Ministers Countered 5 Opposition Questions Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Opposition Behaving Irresponsibly': Pahalgam Victim's Kin Over Chidambaram's 'Homegrown' Remark Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 17:46 IST Manjunath was among the 26 people shot dead by terrorists at Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam, after being identified by their religion Pallavi said that her husband was killed in front of her and her son Abhijays eyes. (IMAGE: SOURCED) The brother-in-law of Karnataka-based businessman Manjunath, who was killed in front of his family in the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack, has condemned senior Congress leader P. Chidambarams remark suggesting that the attackers may have been homegrown terrorists". Manjunath was among the 26 people shot dead by terrorists at Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, after being identified by their religion. Most of the victims were tourists, gunned down in front of their families. Recommended Stories Speaking to CNN-News18 on Tuesday, Dr Ravi Kiran, Manjunaths brother-in-law, slammed the opposition, calling their response irresponsible". I dont think Chidambaram should ask such questions. These kinds of statements end up supporting Pakistan," he said. What proof does the Congress have that the terrorists were homegrown? The opposition should be asking Pakistan for answers, not our government," Kiran added. Chidambaram, in a recent interview, had sparked controversy by questioning the origin of the attackers. He had said, For all we know they could be homegrown terrorists. Why do you assume that they came from Pakistan? There is no evidence of that. They are also hiding the losses." The brother-in-law also expressed his gratitude to the security forces for the success of Operation Mahadev, in which the mastermind behind the April 22 attack was eliminated. Im very happy today. I congratulate the armed forces for Operation Mahadev," he said. In a major breakthrough, the Armys elite para commandos killed Sulieman alias Asif, the key planner of the Pahalgam attack, in an encounter on Monday near Dachigam National Park in the Harwan area. Two other terrorists, Jibran and Hamza Afghani, were also killed in the operation. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The action, codenamed Operation Mahadev, was launched after a technical intercept traced a satellite phone linked to the Pahalgam attackers. Jibran was also allegedly involved in the Sonamarg tunnel attack last year. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 17:39 IST News india 'Opposition Behaving Irresponsibly': Pahalgam Victim's Kin Over Chidambaram's 'Homegrown' Remark Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Bodies Of Pahalgam Planner Suleiman Shah, 2 Pakistani LeT Operatives Identified: Sources Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: Abhro Banerjee Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 11:56 IST The accused identified all three slain terrorists, stating they had previously visited their Dhok (temporary shelter). Hasim Musa was the mastermind of the April 22 attack. Pahalgam terror harbourers identified all three terrorists, including Suleiman Shah, who were killed in Operation Mahadev in Kashmirs Dachigam. The identification was confirmed after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) brought the previously arrested harbourers from Kot Lakhpat Jail to the encounter site for on-the-spot verification. The accused identified all three slain terrorists, stating they had previously visited their Dhok (temporary shelter). Sources confirmed that all three were Pakistani nationals and part of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror group. Recommended Stories Among the dead, the first has been identified as Suleiman Shah, also known as the mastermind of the Baisaran attack. The second is Jibran, while the third has been named as Hamza Afghani. One of the three Hubaib Tahir, a resident of Khaigala in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has been positively identified by real name. According to government sources, this was a high-precision operation driven by a combination of human and technical intelligence. The terrorists came under surveillance and were tracked down before forces were deployed for the final strike. Officials added that the identities were cross-verified with photographs and previous inputs. CNN-News18 had earlier exclusively reported that all Baisaran attackers were among those eliminated in the Dachigam operation. The operation marks a significant success in Indias ongoing offensive against cross-border terror networks. Pahalgam Attack Planner Shot Dead The Indian Army on Monday gunned down the alleged mastermind of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, along with two of his close associates, in a high-stakes encounter in the forested outskirts of Srinagar. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The mastermind, identified as Suleiman Shah, was killed during a surprise offensive launched by security forces after intercepting a technical signal, a satellite phone transmission, believed to have been used by the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack. Acting on the input, the Army initiated Operation Mahadev in the rugged terrain between the Zabarwan and Mahadev ridges. Officials said the other two slain terrorists were identified as Jibran, who was allegedly linked to last years Sonamarg Tunnel attack, and Hamza Afghani. All three were neutralised in the joint operation, which was backed by sustained intelligence inputs over the past month. About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 First Published: July 29, 2025, 10:51 IST News india Bodies Of Pahalgam Planner Suleiman Shah, 2 Pakistani LeT Operatives Identified: Sources Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 22:14 IST Operation Sindoor Debate in Lok Sabha Highlights, Parliament Monsoon Session 2025 Day 7: The stage has been set for a fiery debate in the Parliament on Operation Sindoor, as both the Centre and the opposition locked horns over the four-day military conflict between India and Pakistan in May. In a big statement, PM Modi said no other country intervened and stopped India from carrying out the strikes on terror camps in Pakistan. He said India stopped its offensive after achieving 100% of its objectives, and warned of a decisive response should Pakistan try anything in the future, while lashing out at Congress for aligning with Pakistani propaganda. Earlier, Union Home Minister Amit Shah led the discussion in the Lok Sabha, where he launched a scathing attack on the failures of the Congress-led UPA governments that have led to the rise in terrorist activities. Shah said Pakistan existed because of Congress, and clarified that the ceasefire between India and Pakistan was achieved on May 10 after Indias Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) received a call from Pakistans DGMO. The Parliament began the three-day debate on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor from Monday. The BJP and its allies hailed the Modi government for the decisive action and befitting reply given to Pakistans terror-sponsoring forces, and criticised the opposition for raising doubts on the capabilities of the Indian armed forces. On the other hand, the opposition parties came down heavily on the central government over alleged security lapses and US President Donald Trumps claim of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. They also questioned why security agencies are not able to nab the terrorists behind the Pahalgam attack. Follow Live Updates Here: For this weeks Tech Tuesday, were diving into the practical side of Customer Data Platforms, specifically, which tools are worth your investment. This weeks Tech Tuesday tackles one of the most important technology decisions facing modern businesses: selecting a Customer Data Platform. The CDP market has exploded from a handful of vendors to over 100 solutions, each targeting different business sizes, industries, and use cases. Well cut through the marketing noise to highlight the best CDP tools actually driving results for businesses like yours. Databricks Databricks offers a composable approach to building a Customer Data Platform using its unified Data Intelligence Platform, based on lakehouse architecture. Instead of relying on a pre-packaged solution, businesses can create a tailored CDP directly on top of their existing data infrastructure. This modular strategy allows full control over data architecture while maintaining flexibility to integrate best-in-class tools across the customer data lifecycle. Key Features: Supports core CDP functions such as data collection, unification, analysis, and activationwithout imposing vendor lock-in. Keeps data centralized in the lakehouse, eliminating the need to replicate or restructure it for third-party systems. Enables businesses to model customer data around custom entities and leverage secure, governed data pipelines. Integrates seamlessly with downstream tools for activation and marketing orchestration, and supports real-time data ingestion from websites, apps, and campaigns. Best For: Ideal for fast-scaling, digitally native businesses and enterprises that prioritize flexibility, data ownership, and interoperability. Particularly suited for organizations with in-house data engineering capabilities that want to leverage first-party data, build bespoke customer experiences, and scale customer engagement without the limitations of traditional CDPs. Progress Software / Sitefinity Insight Sitefinity Insight, developed by Progress Software, is an AI-powered customer data platform integrated within the Sitefinity CMS. It enables businesses to centralize customer data from web, CRM, offline sources, and over 1,000 third-party platforms to generate a unified customer view. By embedding intelligence into the content management workflow, Sitefinity Insight helps marketers engage customers with personalized, data-informed experiences. Key Features: The platform includes AI capabilities such as propensity scoring, audience segment discovery, content recommendations, and attribution modeling. Its native integration with the CMS streamlines data operations, eliminates the need for additional tools, and lowers total cost of ownership. Marketers can track user journeys in real time, optimize campaigns based on behavioral insights, and deliver tailored experiences across digital touchpoints. Best For: Ideal for digital marketing teams in industries like financial services, healthcare, retail, and B2B manufacturingespecially where content personalization and campaign performance are critical. Organizations undergoing digital transformation can benefit from its ability to unify cross-channel data and support data-driven decision-making, as demonstrated by use cases like Kensington Mortgages. Twilio Segment Twilio Segment is a leading Customer Data Platform (CDP) that serves as the data foundation behind Twilios suite of customer engagement tools, including messaging, email, customer support, and voice/video interactions. Trusted by a large number of Australian businesses, Segment empowers organizations to collect and unify real-time customer data from every touchpoint, creating a complete, actionable customer view for personalized engagement at scale. Key Features: Segment offers real-time data collection, identity resolution to form unified profiles, and integrations with over 700 third-party tools for marketing, analytics, and data warehousing. It provides built-in governance capabilities to maintain data quality and privacy compliance. With AI-ready infrastructure, it enables advanced personalization, customer journey optimization, and data activation across platformspaving the way for intelligent engagement and performance improvement. Best For: Segment is ideal for organizations prioritizing omnichannel personalization and scalable customer experiences. Particularly useful for teams in marketing, product, and customer experience, its a strong fit for mid-size to enterprise businesses looking to centralize their customer data, drive efficiency, and unlock the full potential of AI-powered engagement strategies. Thryv Business Center Thryvs Business Center serves as a central hub for customer data, giving SMEs a real-time and organised view of every client interaction across the customer lifecycle. Saving up to 20 hours a week for users, Business Center collects and unifies data from bookings, invoices, emails, reviews, payments and communications, into a single and continuously live updated profile. Business Center also helps businesses move away from disconnected tools, by bringing everything together in one dashboard, removing the need to manually re-enter client details across platforms. Key features: A consolidated and unified customer record updated through every interaction. A central inbox to manage communication across email and SMS. Seamless connection to invoicing, scheduling, review management. Smart tagging, filters and automation to trigger follow-ups, reminders and messages. Integrates with popular finance platforms, eliminating manual reconciliation and data duplication Best for SMEs, that need an efficient way to manage clients and helps businesses stay engaged with their customers in a personalised way, with relevant communications, automatic reminders and timely follow-ups. Amperity Amperity is an enterprise-grade Customer Data Platform founded in 2016 that helps brands unify raw, fragmented customer data into accurate, actionable profiles. Designed for organizations with complex data environments, Amperity transforms disjointed records into business-ready assets, enabling teams across marketing, analytics, and customer experience to make smarter, faster decisions. Key Features: At the core of Amperity is its patented, AI-powered identity resolution engine that connects millions of customer recordsregardless of inconsistencies or missing fieldsto build unified profiles. The platform supports flexible data models, automated workflows, and native tools for real-time activation across channels. Built-in privacy and compliance features ensure adherence to evolving regulations without compromising agility. Brands report significant performance gains: for example, Brooks Running achieved a 260% increase in click-through rates and a 128% boost in return on ad spend after using Amperity for personalized marketing. Best For: Amperity is ideal for mid-to-large B2C enterprisesespecially in retail, travel, hospitality, financial services, and sportsthat manage large volumes of customer data and require a unified view to drive high-impact personalization, retention, and marketing performance. Kiraa AI Kiraa.ai is a next-generation business analytics platform developed by Knowledge Orchestrator Pty Ltd, designed to convert underutilized business data into real-time, actionable insights. Originally envisioned as a knowledge management solution, it evolved into a full-featured analytics engineofficially launched in February 2025after its founders identified a critical gap in how organizations preserve and activate internal knowledge. Kiraas first focus is on Sales Analytics, helping businesses surface key insights previously buried in spreadsheets or siloed systems. Key Features: Delivers personalized, role-based insights that are tightly integrated into everyday workflows. Its modular architecture allows for scalable analytics deployments across departments. What sets it apart is its patent-pending technology, which processes data 10x faster than traditional tools and offers analytics up to 13x faster than ChatGPT. These capabilities position Kiraa.ai as a true virtual analyst, capable of transforming massive, unstructured datasets into timely intelligence. Best For: Mid-to-large organizations in manufacturing, retail, and other data-intensive sectors will benefit most from Kiraa.ai. Its especially valuable for businesses looking to move beyond static dashboards and equip teams with dynamic, decision-ready insights directly embedded in their workflows. Adobe Real-Time Customer Data Platform (CDP) Adobe Real-Time Customer Data Platform is a unified solution that consolidates customer data from various online and offline channels to create real-time, actionable profiles. This integration enables businesses to deliver personalized experiences across multiple touchpoints, enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction. Key Features: Combines known and pseudonymous data to form comprehensive customer profiles, ensuring consistency across enterprise systems. Captures data from diverse sources, including websites, mobile apps, CRM systems, and offline transactions, providing up-to-the-moment insights. Utilizes AI-powered insights to create precise audience segments, facilitating targeted marketing efforts. Offers robust tools for consent management, data labeling, and policy enforcement, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. Enables real-time activation of audiences across various channels, including email, paid media, and in-app experiences. Best for businesses seeking to enhance their marketing strategies through unified customer data will find Adobe Real-Time CDP particularly beneficial. Its capabilities are well-suited for organizations aiming to deliver personalized, data-driven experiences while maintaining strict data governance and compliance standards. Zoho Zoho CRM is a cloud-based customer relationship management platform that centralizes customer data to enhance sales, marketing, and support processes. By unifying information from various channels, it addresses the need for a comprehensive view of customer interactions, enabling businesses to deliver personalized and efficient services. Key features include lead and contact management, sales pipeline tracking, marketing automation, and AI-powered analytics. The platform integrates with over 300 applications, facilitating seamless data flow across business systems. Its AI assistant, Zia, offers predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and task suggestions to support data-driven decision-making. Best for businesses seeking to unify customer data across sales, marketing, and support teams. Its customizable features and integrations make it ideal for organizations aiming to improve customer engagement and streamline operations. Mailchimp Mailchimp is a marketing platform that offers a suite of tools to help businesses manage and utilize customer data effectively. By integrating various data sources, Mailchimp enables companies to create comprehensive customer profiles, facilitating personalized marketing strategies. Key features: Design automated workflows that respond to specific customer actions, such as sending welcome emails or re-engaging inactive subscribers. Organize audiences based on demographics, purchase history, and engagement levels to deliver targeted, personalized campaigns. Deploy campaigns triggered by customer interactions, enhancing engagement through timely and relevant messaging. Access real-time performance metrics, including open rates and conversions, to optimize marketing efforts. Best for small to medium-sized businesses seeking an integrated solution to manage customer data and execute personalized marketing campaigns. Its user-friendly interface and robust features make it suitable for organizations aiming to enhance customer engagement and drive sales growth. Salesforce Data Cloud Salesforce Data Cloud is a Customer Data Platform that unifies and activates data from various sources to provide a comprehensive, real-time view of each customer. By consolidating structured and unstructured data, it enables businesses to deliver personalized experiences and make data-driven decisions. Key Features: Integrates data from multiple sources, including CRM systems, marketing tools, and external platforms, to create a 360-degree view of each customer. Supports real-time data ingestion and processing, allowing businesses to act on the most current information for timely decision-making. Employs matching and reconciliation rules to unify customer profiles, ensuring accurate and consistent data across the organization. Utilizes built-in AI capabilities to analyze customer behavior, predict trends, and inform strategic decisions. Enables seamless data activation across various channels, including Salesforce applications and third-party platforms, to deliver personalized customer interactions. Best for organizations seeking to break down data silos and achieve a unified customer view. It benefits sales, marketing, and service teams aiming to enhance personalization, improve customer engagement, and drive growth through data-driven strategies. Treasure Data Treasure Data is an enterprise-focused Customer Data Platform that centralizes and unifies customer data from diverse sources, providing businesses with a comprehensive, real-time view of their customers. This unified approach enables organizations to deliver personalized experiences, optimize marketing strategies, and drive data-informed decision-making. Key features include: Processes data in milliseconds, facilitating immediate, contextually relevant customer interactions. Integrates artificial intelligence to enhance segmentation, predictive modeling, and content personalization without relying on separate tools. Creates a continuous, self-optimizing Diamond Record for each customer, ensuring a complete and up-to-date understanding across all touchpoints. Offers robust API capabilities and integrates with various marketing, sales, and e-commerce platforms, enabling efficient data transfers and unified customer insights. Best for large enterprises seeking to centralize their customer data, leverage AI for personalized marketing, and achieve real-time customer insights to enhance engagement and drive business growth. Tealium AudienceStream Tealium AudienceStream is a Customer Data Platform that centralizes and unifies customer data from various sources, including web, mobile applications, IoT devices, and offline interactions. By creating comprehensive, real-time customer profiles, it enables businesses to deliver personalized experiences and informed decision-making. Key Features: Utilizes patented visitor stitching technology to create unified customer profiles by linking data across devices and channels. Offers over 1,300 integrations with marketing technologies, facilitating immediate action based on real-time customer data signals. Integrates Tealium Predict ML to anticipate customer behavior, enabling proactive engagement strategies. Best For: Medium to large enterprises across sectors such as finance, healthcare, retail, and technology can leverage Tealium AudienceStream to enhance customer engagement, optimize marketing efforts, and ensure data privacy compliance. Hightouch Hightouch is a composable Customer Data Platform that enables businesses to activate their existing data warehouse for personalized marketing and customer engagement. By leveraging data directly from platforms like Snowflake, BigQuery, and Databricks, Hightouch eliminates the need for duplicative data storage, providing a secure and efficient solution for data-driven marketing strategies. Key features: A no-code interface that allows marketers to build and manage audiences, define traits, and orchestrate customer journeys without technical expertise. Utilizes artificial intelligence to deliver personalized, real-time experiences across channels, optimizing customer engagement and lifetime value. Syncs data from the data warehouse to various marketing and business applications, ensuring consistent and up-to-date customer information across platforms. Best for marketing teams seeking to leverage comprehensive customer data for personalized campaigns, data teams aiming to streamline data activation processes, and organizations looking to enhance customer engagement through real-time, data-driven strategies. Bloomreach Engagement Bloomreach Engagement is a customer data platform that centralizes online and offline customer data to provide a comprehensive view of customer interactions and preferences. This unified data foundation enables businesses to make informed, data-driven decisions, enhancing marketing effectiveness and customer engagement. Key features: Consolidates diverse data sources into unified customer profiles, facilitating real-time insights and personalized marketing strategies. Utilizes Loomi AI to deliver real-time, hyper-personalized experiences across multiple channels, optimizing customer journeys and increasing lifetime value. Enables seamless campaign execution across over 13 channels, including email, SMS, web, and mobile, ensuring consistent and effective customer engagement. Best for businesses seeking to unify their customer data and leverage AI-driven insights to deliver personalized marketing experiences at scale. It is particularly beneficial for organizations aiming to enhance customer engagement, improve marketing ROI, and drive revenue growth through data-driven strategies. Blueshift Blueshift is an AI-powered Customer Data Platform that enables businesses to unify and activate customer data across multiple channels, facilitating personalized, real-time marketing interactions. Key Features: Integrates data from various sources to create comprehensive, real-time customer profiles. Utilizes AI to dynamically group customers based on predictive insights, enhancing targeted messaging. Automates personalized campaigns across channels like email, SMS, push notifications, and web. Provides real-time, personalized content and product suggestions to boost engagement. Best For:*Mid-size to enterprise-level companies in e-commerce, retail, media, and subscription services seeking to deliver highly personalized, omnichannel marketing campaigns. BlueConic BlueConic is a Customer Data Platform that enables businesses to unify and activate first-party customer data in real time, enhancing personalization and growth. Key Features: Consolidates known and unknown customer data into dynamic, privacy-compliant profiles, ensuring accurate personalization. Utilizes AI to create predictive, high-value segments without coding, keeping audiences updated for activation across marketing channels. Delivers tailored site experiences, including banners, forms, product recommendations, and email triggers, to drive conversions. Maps and manages customer journeys based on real-time behaviors, coordinating personalized touchpoints across channels. Ensures compliance with privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA/CPRA by unifying consent within customer profiles. Best For: marketing, product, and growth teams seeking to leverage first-party data for personalized customer engagement and accelerated business outcomes. SAP Customer Data Platform SAP Customer Data Platform is a comprehensive solution designed to unify and manage customer data across an organization, enabling personalized and compliant customer engagements. By integrating data from various sourcesincluding CRM systems, ERP, supply chain management, and other cloud solutionsSAP CDP creates a unified, real-time view of each customer, facilitating informed decision-making and enhanced customer experiences. Key Features: Consolidates data to form detailed profiles, associating relationships at both individual and account levels. Gathers and updates customer data in real time from multiple sources, ensuring current and accurate information. Respects customer data privacy by maintaining the purpose of data during every engagement and orchestrating data with engagement systems based on data privacy permissions. Enhances customer insights and operational intelligence with generative AI, enabling predictive modeling and recommendation engines. Best For: large enterprises seeking to centralize customer data from diverse sources, ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations while delivering personalized customer experiences. It benefits organizations aiming to integrate customer data across various departments, including marketing, sales, and service, to drive growth and customer loyalty. Redpoint Redpoint Globals Customer Data Platform centralizes and unifies customer data from diverse sources, enabling businesses to deliver personalized, omnichannel experiences that enhance customer engagement and drive revenue growth. Key Features: Ensures accurate and up-to-date customer profiles by cleansing and standardizing data at ingestion. Provides precise customer identities in real-time across individuals, households, and accounts, blending deterministic and probabilistic techniques. Allows marketers to create, visualize, and test audience segments without coding, facilitating agile, creative marketing strategies. Best For: Marketing and customer experience leaders seeking a flexible, composable CDP that integrates seamlessly with existing MarTech stacks and adapts to evolving business needs. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. PM Modi Recalls Phone Call With JD Vance Before India's Massive Response: 'Goli Ka Jawab Gole' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 19:41 IST PM Modi says India stood firm despite nuclear threats from Pakistan during Op Sindoor and said he told US VP Vance that any Pakistani misadventure would be met with deadly force. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, at the Monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi. (IMAGE: PTI) PM Modi in Lok Sabha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday revealed that US Vice President JD Vance had tried reaching him on the night of May 9, shortly after India launched retaliatory strikes under Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam attack. PM Modi said he was in a meeting with military officials at the time and returned the call later. When I spoke to the US Vice President, he warned me that Pakistan may be preparing for a major attack," Modi said in the Lok Sabha. I told him clearly: If thats their plan, they will pay dearly. Goli ka jawab gole se diya jayega". Recommended Stories The Prime Minister said he made it clear that India would not be deterred. I conveyed to the US that any misadventure by Pakistan would invite an even stronger response," he said, adding that Pakistan now knows India is willing and capable of going further if needed. His remarks came shortly after Leader of Opposition and Congress MP from Kerala Rahul Gandhi accused the government of lacking the political will to fully back the armed forces and claimed that key operational details had been shared with Pakistan during the initial phase of Operation Sindoor. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Gandhi said Defence Minister Rajnath Singhs statement revealed that the Indian DGMO contacted Pakistan minutes after the strikes began, informing them that only non-military targets had been hit and that India did not seek escalation. These are not my words," he said. These are the words of Indias defence minister." Gandhi alleged that the political leadership had restricted the militarys operational scope. You attacked Pakistan and simultaneously told them we are not going to hit your army or air defence systems. That is not freedom of manoeuvre; that is surrender," he said. He also claimed that Indian aircraft losses were the result of these imposed constraints. PM Modi, responding to this narrative, dismissed suggestions that India had come under international pressure to halt its strikes. No global leader told us to stop," he said. The operation is still on. Indias forces are acting with full confidence. Pakistans nuclear threats dont work anymore." Prime Minister Modi said that Indias strikes under Operation Sindoor were so effective that Pakistan was forced to call for a ceasefire. Our missiles attacked Pakistan in a way they could not even imagine. We brought them to their knees," he told the Lok Sabha. Pakistan then called our DGMO and requested to stop, saying bahut maara, ab zyada maar jhelne ki takat nahi hai, please hamla rok do." The Prime Ministers remarks came amid Opposition questions over US President Donald Trumps claim that he brokered a ceasefire by using trade deals as a key tool. He said India had decisively exposed Pakistans vulnerabilities. Terrorist launchpads were destroyed. Sites like Bahawalpur and Muridke, where no one imagined we could strike, have been hit hard. Pakistans airbases and assets have suffered major damage. Many of their installations are still in ICU," the Prime Minister said. Highlighting Indias defence preparedness, Modi said the strikes showcased the countrys growing technological capabilities. From drones to missiles, our entire operation was powered by Made-in-India systems. The world is witnessing the strength of a self-reliant India," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He also warned that Pakistan would face consequences for any further provocations. Operation Sindoor is not over. It will continue for as long as necessary. India will decide the terms and on its own timeline and on its own terms," Modi said. Without naming the Congress directly, he took a swipe at the Opposition for questioning the mission. At a time when our forces are engaged in a battle of resolve, some are playing politics. Todays warfare includes narratives and information. Weakening the morale of our troops through misinformation helps the enemy," he said. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 18:54 IST News india PM Modi Recalls Phone Call With JD Vance Before India's Massive Response: 'Goli Ka Jawab Gole' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Pakistan Is Congress's Mistake, PoK Exists Because Of Nehru's Policies: Amit Shah In Parliament Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 13:53 IST The remarks came during a fiery session in the Lok Sabha, with Shah defending the government's current stance on national security and historical accountability. Union Home Minister Amit Shah (Photo: Sansad TV) Operation Sindoor Debate in Lok Sabha: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the Congress in the Lok Sabha, declaring that Pakistan is Congresss mistake" and holding former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru directly responsible for the existence of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). If PoK exists today, it is due to Jawaharlal Nehrus ceasefire. The blame lies with Nehru," Shah said, referring to the 1949 decision to halt military operations during the first India-Pakistan war, which allowed Pakistan to retain control over a part of Kashmir. Recommended Stories Also Read: Operation Sindoor Debate In Parliament Live Updates He further pointed out that in 1960, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had opposed the move. We were strong on the Indus waters, but after the Indus Waters Treaty, we gave 80% of the water to Pakistan," Shah said, accusing the Congress leadership of surrendering Indias strategic advantage. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Continuing his historical critique, Shah said Congress had missed another crucial opportunity in 1971, after Indias victory in the Bangladesh Liberation War. We take pride in the 1971 win we had 93,000 Pakistani prisoners of war, nearly 42% of their army. Yet, we did not ask for PoK then," he said, suggesting that Congress had once again failed to assert Indias interests. Shah also held Nehru responsible for India not securing a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council. It was Nehrus decision that cost us the UN Security Council seat," Shah asserted, underscoring a pattern of what he described as historical blunders by the Congress that had long-term implications for Indias global standing. About the Author Abhro Banerjee Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 12:59 IST News india Pakistan Is Congress's Mistake, PoK Exists Because Of Nehru's Policies: Amit Shah In Parliament Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Rain May Have Washed Away 4000 Tonnes Of Missing Coal': Meghalaya Minister Amid HC Scrutiny Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 07:19 IST The minister made the comments just days after a Meghalaya High Court bench led by Justice HS Thangkhiew criticised the states handling of illegal coal operations. Illegal coal mining | Representative Image Amid scrutiny over the disappearance" of nearly 4,000 metric tonnes of coal from depots in Rajaju and Diengngan villages in South West Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya Cabinet Minister Kyrmen Shylla suggested that monsoon rainwater might have washed the coal downstream into neighbouring Assam and Bangladesh. The coal was stored in Ranikor Block, and its disappearance has drawn sharp criticism from the Meghalaya High Court, which has asked the state government to identify those responsible for the illegal movement of coal. Recommended Stories Addressing reporters in Shillong on Monday, Minister Shylla said, I am not trying to justify, but we need to remind ourselves that Meghalaya has one of the highest rainfall rates in the country. So due to this high and heavy rainfall, anything can happen." There is an allegation that because of the rains in Meghalaya, floods happened in Assam, and from East Jaintia Hills, rainwater goes to Bangladesh. You never know, it could be because of the rains the coal got carried away." While refraining from confirming the presence of illegal trade, Shylla said, I cannot blame the rain alone. I dont have any details with me to say that there was illegal transportation. However, since we have the authority, we need to ensure that there is no illegal transportation or illegal mining; it should be as per law." The minister, who hails from Jaintia Hillsa coal-rich regionmade the comments just days after a Meghalaya High Court bench led by Justice HS Thangkhiew criticised the states handling of illegal coal operations. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The missing coal had previously been surveyed and documented, as per the 31st interim report submitted by the Justice (Retd.) BP Katakey Committee, which is overseeing coal mining and transportation in the state. The incident has again raised concerns over illegal coal trade in Meghalaya, an issue the state has struggled with for years. Location : Meghalaya, India, India First Published: July 29, 2025, 07:19 IST News india 'Rain May Have Washed Away 4000 Tonnes Of Missing Coal': Meghalaya Minister Amid HC Scrutiny Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'People Of PoK Will Return To India': Rajnath Singh Amid Op Sindoor Debate In Parliament Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 14:46 IST As the Parliament debated India's 'Operation Sindoor', Defence Minister Rajnath Singh told the Rajya Sabha that the people of the PoK will one day declare themselves Indians. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh speaking in the Rajya Sabha (Photo: PTI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, addressing the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, expressed hopes that the people of the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) will return and will accept that they are Indians. The Defence Minister also said that Indias Operation Sindoor was a clear message to Pakistan and the world that India will go to any extent to eliminate terrorism. Recommended Stories He also reaffirmed the governments commitment to national security, while lauding the precision and coordination of Indias armed forces. The people of PoK will return, a day will come when they will say that we are Indians," Singh said in the Upper House, as the Parliament debated Operation Sindoor. Indias Operation Sindoor was not an act of provocation, but one of self-defence," Singh said. We struck nine terror camps, including those operated by Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen. No Pakistani civilian was harmed. Our targets were precise and our message was clear," the Defence Minister said. He revealed that Pakistan had attempted to attack Indian military and civilian targets using missiles and drones, but failed to cause any damage. We thwarted every attempt. Not a single Indian installation was hit," Singh added. Also speaking on Operation Mahadev in Srinagar, Singh said that actionable intelligence led to the elimination of three terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam attack. Our forces neutralised the perpetrators. We do what we say," he declared firmly. He emphasised that the Opposition should unite in acknowledging the valour of Indian soldiers. Not a single soldier was martyred. The entire country should take pride in the professionalism of our armed forces," the Defence Minister said. Also retorting to the mediation claims by US President Donald Trump, Singh stated that Pakistan, on May 10, had requested a ceasefire following the Indian offensive. We agreed, but only on the condition that if there is another terror attack, Operation Sindoor will resume. The operation is not over, it remains active," he clarified. Calling the strike a turning point in Indias security doctrine, Singh said, Operation Sindoor is redefining Indias global image. We will not allow our soil to bleed. The people of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir will one day say Yes, we are Indians." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Singh concluded by reiterating Indias commitment to peace but warned, We gave our forces full freedom, and we will continue to do so. From land to sea, we are prepared to give a befitting reply to any aggression." ALSO READ | Amit Shah Says Pakistan Sought Ceasefire After Indias Airbase Attacks: They Had No Other Option About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. First Published: July 29, 2025, 14:44 IST News india 'People Of PoK Will Return To India': Rajnath Singh Amid Op Sindoor Debate In Parliament Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Same Rifles Used: Amit Shah Says Op Mahadev Recoveries Confirm Pahalgam Terrorists Were Killed Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 14:49 IST Shah revealed that cartridge casings recovered from the Pahalgam attack site had undergone forensic testing in advance. Home Minister Amit Shah spoke on Operation Mahadev in Parliament. (Pic: Screengrab from SansadTV) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday confirmed in Parliament that the very rifles recovered from three terrorists killed in the recent Dachigam encounter were the same weapons used in the brutal Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 civilians dead. Ballistic analysis of the rifles and cartridge cases conclusively established that these were the same weapons used in the attack on our civilians," Shah told the House. Shah revealed that cartridge casings recovered from the Pahalgam attack site had undergone forensic testing in advance. When the terrorists were killed in the Dachigam operation, the recovered rifles M9 American rifles were matched with those shell casings, confirming their use in the Pahalgam massacre. Recommended Stories In Lok Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, " All three terrorists Suleman, Afghan and Jibran were killed in yesterdays operation. The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier. Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were https://t.co/jBP4SmmbUJ pic.twitter.com/pK48Lp7MIP ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 Also Read: All 3 Terrorists Killed In Op Mahadev Involved In Pahalgam Attack: Amit Shah In Lok Sabha The Home Minister also stated that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had earlier arrested those who sheltered the terrorists. When the bodies of the slain terrorists were brought to Srinagar, the arrested individuals were brought in for identification, and confirmed all three identities on the spot. PM Modi, too, praised Amit Shah for his speech in Lok Sabha. In a post on X, he said: In this remarkable speech in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah Ji gives important details about Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which have played a vital role in eliminating cowardly terrorists. His address also focuses on our Governments efforts towards keeping our nation secure." In this remarkable speech in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah Ji gives important details about Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which have played a vital role in eliminating cowardly terrorists. His address also focuses on our Governments efforts towards keeping https://t.co/FQ7cCNl4nO Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 29, 2025 How The Operation Started Providing a detailed timeline of the operation, Shah said Operation Mahadev was launched on May 22, 2025. A high-level security meeting was convened the same evening. The attack took place at 1 PM. I reached Srinagar by 5:30 PM," he said. Shah added that on the same day, the Intelligence Bureau (IB) received specific human intelligence about the terrorists presence in the Dachigam forest range. A decision was made that night that the perpetrators must not be allowed to escape to Pakistan under any circumstances. Security forces then moved swiftly to cordon off potential escape routes and track the movement of the attackers. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The operation led to the successful elimination of the three Lashkar terrorists, who have since been identified as Suleman alias Hashim Musa (the alleged mastermind), Jibran, and Hamza Afghani. Their presence was traced through coordinated human and technical intelligence over the course of a month-long pursuit. After the Pahalgam attack, security forces were instructed not to allow terrorists responsible for the dastardly act to leave the country. Describing the Pahalgam attack as barbaric, Shah said innocent civilians were brutally killed in front of their families after being asked about their religion and were murdered with extreme cruelty. About the Author Abhro Banerjee Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 12:24 IST News india 'Same Rifles Used: Amit Shah Says Op Mahadev Recoveries Confirm Pahalgam Terrorists Were Killed Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Say Trump Is A Liar': Rahul Gandhi Questions Govt Over Op Sindoor Ceasefire, Diplomacy Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 18:12 IST Rahul Gandhi challenges PM Modi to call Trump a liar over claims of brokering India-Pakistan ceasefire. New Delhi denies Trump's assertions, stating no calls were made. Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha. (X) Operation Sindoor Debate: Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday questioned the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led union government over US Presidents repeated assertion of brokering ceasefire between India and Pakistan. While participating in a special three-day discussion in the Lok Sabha on Indias strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam", the Lok Sabha LoP threw a challenge before the Prime Minister to declare the US President a liar" on the floor of the house. Recommended Stories Follow LIVE Updates US president Donald Trump has said 29 times that he brokered the ceasefire. Fine, if hes lying, then let Prime Minister Modi say it clearly in his speech here: You are lying. If he has the courage of Indira Gandhi, let him stand here and say, Donald Trump, you are a liar", Rahul Gandhi said while addressing the Lok Sabha. VIDEO | Operation Sindoor Debate: US president Donald Trump has said 29 times that he brokered the ceasefire. Fine, if hes lying, then let Prime Minister Modi say it clearly in his speech here: You are lying. If he has the courage of Indira Gandhi, let him stand here and say, pic.twitter.com/F4h7dlgfav Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 29, 2025 He further quoted Indias defence attache in Indonesia to attack government, saying you told pilots to not attack their air defence system. IAF made no mistake, political leadership did by saying you cannot attack military infrastructure of Pakistan," he said. He further commented upon Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munirs Lunch party with Trump and said, The man behind Pahalgam is Munir who is having lunch with Trump. He is sitting there and our PM is not going there. PM has not said anything." Trumps Repeated Assertions Trump time and again has asserted that he had settled" the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, attributing the resolution to his efforts in pursuing trade agreements with both nations. Also Read: Rahul Gandhi Believes Theres A Key Difference Between 1971 War And Op Sindoor. It Is The US President has consistently maintained that he played a pivotal role in de-escalating the conflict between India and Pakistan. Earlier on Monday, the US President claimed that if he had not intervened in time with a threat of stopping trade negotiations, India and Pakistan would have been at war. During a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotlands Turnberry, the US President took credit for stepping in and asserted that the world would have witnessed six major wars if he had not intervened. New Delhis Denies Trumps Claims New Delhi has consistently denied Trumps claims that he was instrumental in bringing about the May 10 ceasefire between the two countries. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday, while addressing the Lok Sabha, informed that no telephonic conversation was held between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump from April 22 to June 17. There was no call between PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump from April 22, when Trump called up to convey sympathy and to June 17, when he called up PM in Canada to explain why he couldnt meet him," Jaishankar said in Lok Sabha. The EAM went on to explain the events that led to the cessation of the conflict. On May 9, US Vice President JD Vance called the Prime Minister, warning of a massive Pakistani attack in the next two hours. The PM, in his response, made it very clear that if such an attack happens, it would meet an appropriate response from our side. That attack took place and was foiled by our armed forces on May 9-10. Our response was delivered. Every member has seen satellite pictures of Pakistani air bases. You can see pictures. On May 10, we received phone calls, sharing the impression that Pakistan was ready to cease the fight. Our position was if Pakistan was ready, we needed to get this request from the Pakistani side through DGMO channels. At no stage, in any conversation with the United States, was there any linkage with trade and what was going on," he added. Also Read: Govt Showed No Political Will, Didnt Want Escalation: Rahul Gandhi During Op Sindoor Debate Pahalgam Attack top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In one of the biggest attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, Lashkar-linked terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists in Pahalgam on Tuesday, April 22, killing at least 26 people, including foreign tourists, and injuring many others. The Resistance Front (TRF), a Lashkar offshoot, claimed responsibility for the attack, although it later backtracked after massive global outrage. India responded with Operation Sindoor on May 7, bombing nine terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in pre-dawn strikes that killed at least 100 militants. The operation sparked four days of cross-border fighting involving fighter jets, missiles and artillery. About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 18:06 IST News india 'Say Trump Is A Liar': Rahul Gandhi Questions Govt Over Op Sindoor Ceasefire, Diplomacy Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... SC Collegium Approves Elevation Of Judicial Officer Vimal Kumar Yadav As Delhi High Court Judge Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 15:10 IST The Supreme Collegium on July 28 recommended the appointment of judicial officer Vimal Kumar Yadav as a judge of the Delhi High Court, said the recommendation. he three-member collegium meeting was headed by Chief Justice BR Gavai on Monday. (Image: PTI file photo) The Supreme Court (SC) collegium on Monday approved the proposal for elevation of judicial officer Vimal Kumar Yadav as a judge of the Delhi High Court (HC). The three-member collegium meeting headed by Chief Justice BR Gavai on Monday approved the proposal. The Supreme Collegium on July 28 recommended the appointment of judicial officer Vimal Kumar Yadav as a judge of the Delhi High Court," said the recommendation. Recommended Stories The collegium also comprising Justices Surya Kant and Vikram Nath, in its meeting, also approved the proposal for appointment of the three advocates as judges of the Bombay High Court. What makes Yadavs recommendation unusual is that the consideration has come months after his retirement. Those privy to the developments told CNN-News18 that his name was considered by the collegium second time. While the name was rejected first time, seeing his exemplary performance, the name was considered again," they said. This time it was noted that though his tenure would be extremely short due to his age, but he is a fit addition to the higher judiciary," they said. Who is Vimal Kumar Yadav? Yadav joined the Delhi Judicial Service in 1992. In 2003, he became part of the Delhi Higher Judicial Service, according to reports. Over the years, he has held important roles such as Additional Registrar in the Supreme Court, and served as Additional District Judge, Additional Sessions Judge, and other senior judicial positions in Delhi. He was promoted to the higher judicial cadre in 2006. He has also served in administrative roles such as Principal District & Sessions Judge, New Delhi, and Chairperson of the New Delhi District Legal Services Authority, where he worked alongside officials like Secretary Kumar Rahul. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The proposal now awaits formal notification from the Ministry of Law and Justice, which is required before he officially takes office. With PTI Inputs About the Author Ananya Bhatnagar Ananya Bhatnagar, Correspondent at CNN-News18, reports on various legal issues and cases in lower courts and the Delhi High Court. He has covered the hanging of the Nirbhaya gang-rape convicts, JNU violence, De... Read More Ananya Bhatnagar, Correspondent at CNN-News18, reports on various legal issues and cases in lower courts and the Delhi High Court. He has covered the hanging of the Nirbhaya gang-rape convicts, JNU violence, De... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 15:05 IST News india SC Collegium Approves Elevation Of Judicial Officer Vimal Kumar Yadav As Delhi High Court Judge Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'She Was Muslim...': Haryana Man Kills Girlfriend In Hotel Room After 10-Year Relationship Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 13:51 IST According to police, the murder took place on July 24 inside a hotel in IP Colony under Sector-31 police station of Faridabad Deepak admitted to killing his girlfriend Shibba, claiming religious differences and pressure to marry as the motive. (News18 Hindi) A decade-long relationship ended in a brutal crime in Faridabad, where a 33-year-old woman was found strangled in a hotel room. The accused, identified as Deepak, has admitted to killing his girlfriend Shibba, claiming religious differences and pressure to marry as the motive. According to police, the murder took place on July 24 inside a hotel in IP Colony under Sector-31 police station. Shibba, a resident of Mohan Baba Nagar in Badarpur, Delhi, worked as an insurance advisor with a private bank. That morning, she told her family she was heading to the office as usual. Later in the day, she even called her mother to ask about lunch. But by nightfall, she hadnt returned. Her phone rang unanswered through the night. Recommended Stories On July 25, hotel staff alerted police after the room remained locked well past checkout time. When they entered, they found Shibbas lifeless body on the bed. Marks on her neck pointed to strangulation. Security footage confirmed that Shibba had checked in with a man on July 24. He was later identified as Deepak, a resident of the same neighbourhood in Delhi. The footage showed him leaving alone that evening. Police handed the case over to Crime Branch DLF, which tracked Deepaks location through his mobile phone. He was arrested from Delhis Nizamuddin area and has since been remanded to police custody for two days. During interrogation, the accused confessed that he killed the woman because she was pressuring him for marriage," said police spokesperson Yashpal, adding, He also stated that since she was Muslim, he did not want to continue the relationship." Deepak reportedly told investigators that their relationship had started about ten years ago and was initially cordial. Over time, he claimed, differences began to emerge, particularly over marriage. Deepak works as an online seller of clothes, police said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Shibbas mother, Razia, filed a formal complaint alleging that Deepak lured her daughter to the hotel and killed her. Her uncle Riyazuddin shared that Shibba had chosen not to marry so she could take care of her widowed mother. Her father passed away around two decades ago. She was the second of three sisters; both her siblings are married. Police say they are now focusing on piecing together the final details of what led to the murder. Location : Faridabad, India, India First Published: July 29, 2025, 13:51 IST News india 'She Was Muslim...': Haryana Man Kills Girlfriend In Hotel Room After 10-Year Relationship Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Some Were Swimming When Indian Missiles Hit: PM Modis Jibe At Shehbaz Sharif Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 19:06 IST PM Narendra Modi mocked Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif for admitting he was swimming while India launched precision strikes under 'Operation Sindoor', praising India's response. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday took a jibe at his Pakistani counterpart Shehbaz Sharif on admitting that he was swimming while India launched precision strikes on his country under Operation Sindoor. While participating in a special three-day discussion in the Lok Sabha on Indias strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam", the Prime Minister said, Indias army gave a decisive response when Pakistan chose to brazenly back terrorists. Our missiles reached the corners of Pakistan- something they did not even imagine. We forced them to stoop to their knees." Recommended Stories The PM said that after the Pahalgam terrorist attack, Pakistan Forces had an idea that India would indeed take major action. They started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of 6-7 May, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything. Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks." PM Modi further said that after Indias action on May 10, Pakistan begged for a ceasefire. Pakistan said, Bahut maara, ab jyada maar jhelne ki takat nahi hai." They asked us to stop the war," said the PM. He further said that after the attack, the armed forces were given free hand to take action against the terrorists. Armed Forces were given a free hand. They were told to decide the when, where and howWe are proud that terrorists were punished, and it was such a punishment that the terrorist masterminds have sleepless nights even to this day." The Pakistani Prime Minister had brazenly admitted that he was swimming while India launched precision strikes on his country under Operation Sindoor. During his address to an event held at the Pakistan Monument in May, he had also admitted that Indias ballistic missiles hit Nur Khan Airbase and other sites on May 10, in a rare gesture that contradicted Pakistans usual denial when it comes to Indian military action. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all At around 2:30 am on May 10, General Syed Asim Munir called me on a secure line and informed me that Indias ballistic missiles had hit Nur Khan Airbase and other areas. Our Air Force used homegrown technology to save our country, and they even used modern gadgets and technology on Chinese jets," he said. After Fajr (Namaz), I went for a swim, carrying my secure phone with me. The phone rang for the second timeit was General Asim Munir on the line. He informed me that Pakistan had retaliated against India," he added while neglecting to mention to the audience that India had intercepted all the missiles and drones launched by Pakistan. About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 19:06 IST News india Some Were Swimming When Indian Missiles Hit: PM Modis Jibe At Shehbaz Sharif Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Sonalika Tractor' Uses Actress Monalisas Pic For Bihar Residence Certificate. This Happens Next Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 23:08 IST A residence certificate for a tractor using Bhojpuri actress Monalisa's photo emerged. SP Swarn Prabhat confirmed the application was rejected. In Bihar, not just a four-legged canine, but even an inanimate tractor seems to be vying for a residence certificate. (X) After the now well-known dog babu, another incident came into limelight from East Champaran district where an application had been moved in the name of one Sonalika Tractor by using the photograph of Bhojpuri actress Monalisa, news agency PTI reported. The applicant allegedly submitted a photo of the popular Bhojpuri actress along with a residence certificate application under the name Sonalika Tractor, claiming descent from Swaraj Tractor and Car Devi. Recommended Stories Upon verification, the authorities confirmed the application to be entirely fake. After Dog Babu, Sonalika Tractor received a residence certificate in Bihar with actress Monalisas picture. Bihar is truly ahead of its time. pic.twitter.com/OLGroV21ed DeshPremi (@shiromani2103) July 29, 2025 The fake application copy has gone viral on social media, triggering widespread discussions and criticism over lax verification procedures. Superintendent of Police Swarn Prabhat clarified that the online application dated July 17 was never entertained and a manhunt has been launched for the mischief monger. An FIR was registered at Kotwa police station, and the matter has now been handed over to the Cyber Crime Cell for deeper investigation, the report added. The application was rejected by the Circle Officer of Kotwa as soon as it was received. But the matter also involves the wrongful use of a photograph downloaded, apparently, from the internet. Hence, a case has been lodged at the police station concerned", the SP added. No certificate has been issued against the application. We are now trying to track down the user through the IP address. When caught, he will face action under the relevant sections of Bharatiya Nyay Samhita and IT Act," he added. Earlier on Monday, a similarly outrageous case came to light in Masaurhi (Patna), where a residence certificate was issued in the name of dog babu, born to kutta babu and kutiya devi, much to the embarrassment of the administration, which got it promptly annulled. Moreover, besides lodging of an FIR, a computer operator was sacked for unmindfully forwarding the application and suspension was recommended for the revenue department official who heedlessly went on to issue the certificate. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The episode was lapped up by those opposing the special intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar, which accepts residence certificates, but not Aadhaar cards and ration cards, from voters. (With inputs from PTI) About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Location : Motihari, India, India First Published: July 29, 2025, 23:08 IST News india 'Sonalika Tractor' Uses Actress Monalisas Pic For Bihar Residence Certificate. This Happens Next Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... This weeks Lets Talk uncovers a growing crisis hiding in plain sight across Australian businesses. Small and medium enterprises are drowning in subscription costs, with the average company now managing over 130 SaaS applications: a 300% increase from just five years ago. What starts as a handful of essential tools quickly morphs into a complex web of overlapping subscriptions, forgotten trials, and duplicate functionalities. Without proper oversight, these seemingly modest monthly fees spiral into budget-busting expenses that can cripple cash flow, drain resources meant for growth, and leave business owners wondering where their money actually goes each month. Lets Talk! More Lets Talk episodes Contribute to Dynamic Business Elise Balsillie, Head of Thryv Australia and New Zealand SaaS budgeting tools give SMEs something traditional spreadsheets often struggle to provide: real-time control and clarity. By integrating live data from your banking, invoicing, and operational platforms, they provide a dynamic picture of business spending, broken down by category, frequency, and ROI. That level of visibility is where smart decisions begin for SMEs. A business owner can spot patterns early, set spending limits, forecast accurately and receive alerts before costs spiral. Whether it is marketing, supplier payments or unexpected overheads, these tools act as a financial early warning system, by allowing the business owner to course-correct before small oversteps become costly habits. However, the real advantage with SaaS budgeting tools is a strategic one. When you understand exactly where the money is going and what it is delivering, the business can then fund with intention. The business is not trimming for the sake of cutting but optimising to make every dollar work harder. Overspending does not usually happen in one big moment. It tends to creep in quietly and over time. Saas budgeting tools give your business the discipline, visibility and confidence to lead with accuracy and precision two vital ingredients in how a small business can stay resilient and grow. Derek Chung, Head of Performance, TBS Digital Labs Running a business is expensive, and running it profitably is impossible without knowing your numbers. In an agency, the teams hours are the most expensive asset, so its critical that time is spent effectively on clients to avoid scope and cost creep. Budgeting software and time-tracking tools make it much easier to monitor spending, allocate resources, and keep projects on track. They help SMEs stay within budget by providing real-time visibility into where money and time are being spent, identifying inefficiencies early, and allowing for faster course correction when things go off track. Many platforms also offer forecasting features, so business owners can plan ahead with greater confidence and avoid nasty surprises at the end of the month. Weve found Everhour to be a good fit; its lightweight, easy to adopt, and unlike some platforms, it avoids invasive features like keystroke or screen monitoring, which can erode trust and make teams feel micromanaged. Its also designed to be simple to use, with browser and desktop integrations that fit neatly into existing workflows. These tools are critical, but it has to be the one thats fit for purpose for your business. Discover Lets Talk Business Topics Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. 'Those Who Don't See India's Side..': PM Modi Takes A Dig At Opposition During Op Sindoor Debate Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 19:27 IST Operation Sindoor Debate: PM Modi criticized the opposition in a Lok Sabha debate on Operation Sindoor, highlighting India's response to the Pahalgam terror attack. PM Modi addressing the Lok Sabha. (Sansad TV) Operation Sindoor Debate: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday took a veiled jibe at the opposition over its stance of Operation Sindoor, saying that he has come to the house to present Indias point of view and to show a mirror to those who are unable to see it. While participating in a special three-day discussion in the Lok Sabha on Indias strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam", the Prime Minister said, I stand here to present Indias side before this House. Those who dont see Indias side, I stand here to show them a mirror." Recommended Stories #OperationSindoor | PM Narendra Modi says, I stand here to present Indias side before this House. Those who dont see Indias side, I stand here to show them a mirror." pic.twitter.com/Kym2riDeOs ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 He also lashed at the opposition saying that some people are busy pushing Pakistans false propaganda over the facts shared by the armed forces, even though Indias stand has been crystal clear. Condemning the ghastly terror attack of Pahalgam, PM Modi said that the way terrorists targeted innocent people while asking them their religion, it was the height of brutality. The cruel incident that happened in Pahalgam on 22nd April, the way terrorists shot innocent people after asking them about their religion, was the height of cruelty. This was a well-thought-out attempt to throw India into the fire of violence. This was a conspiracy to spread riots in India. Today I thank the countrymen that the country foiled that conspiracy with unity," he said. He further thanked the Indian people to support him during Indias retaliatory attacks. During Operation Sindoor, the way people of India supported me and blessed me, I am indebted to Indias people and I am thankful to Indians. I appreciate their support for me," he said. He further asserted that the Indian armed forces taught such a lesson to those behind the Pahalgam attack that the masters of terrorism" are still losing their sleep over it. We have complete trust in the capabilities of our armed forces and they were given a free hand to respond. The armed forces taught them such a lesson that the masters of terrorism are still losing their sleep over it," he said. Modi noted that Pakistan had some inkling of Indian action and had started issuing nuclear threats, but could do nothing when terror targets were hit. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all It (Pahalgam attack) was a conspiracy to instigate riots in India and the countrys unity foiled that attempt. When I speak of this Parliament session being a Vijayotsav, it is of destroying the headquarters of terror," he said. About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 18:19 IST News india 'Those Who Don't See India's Side..': PM Modi Takes A Dig At Opposition During Op Sindoor Debate Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... World Backed India, But Armed Forces Didn't Get Congress Support: PM Modi On Op Sindoor Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 19:48 IST Modi stated that while the world supported India, the Indian Armed Forces did not receive support from Congress during Operation Sindoor Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that while the international community stood firmly with India, the Congress party offered no support to the armed forces on Operation Sindoor. Responding to the two-day debate on the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha, PM Modi remarked that India received backing from across the world, but it was unfortunate that the Congress did not stand by the bravery of Indian soldiers. Recommended Stories India got support from the entire world, but it is unfortunate that the Congress did not support the valour of our soldiers. Congress leaders targeted me for political gains but their frivolous statements ended up discouraging our brave soldiers," he said. #WATCH | Operation Sindoor | PM Narendra Modi says, A lot was said here on Indias Foreign Policy. There were discussions on global support tooWe received global support. But unfortunately, the valour of the brave jawans of my country did not get the support of Congress." pic.twitter.com/QQmk2RTzRC ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 The Prime Minister went on to criticise the Congress, saying the party does not trust the Indian Army", which is why it continues to raise questions about Operation Sindoor. Some people are busy pushing Pakistans false propaganda over the facts shared by our armed forces, even though Indias stand has been crystal clear," he said. PM Modi also accused Congress leaders of making baseless statements for political gain, which he said ultimately discouraged the morale of Indias armed forces. Congress leaders targeted me for political gains, but their frivolous statements ended up discouraging our brave soldiers," Modi said. Opposition can get headlines in media with their attacks on me, but this cannot earn them place in hearts of people of country," the Prime Minister added. Speaking on the intent behind Operation Sindoor, PM Modi said India had decided to strike at the very epicentre of terror that had supported the Pahalgam attackers. For Operation Sindoor, India had decided to attack the epicentre of terror that had supported Pahalgam terrorists," he said. No World Leader Asked India To Stop In his speech, Prime Minister Modi emphasised that no world leader asked India to stop the military conflict with Pakistan, asserting that New Delhi acted entirely on its own terms. No leader of any country asked India to stop the operation," he said. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that he helped broker a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor in May. Modi added, On the night of May 9, the US Vice President tried to reach me 3-4 times, but I was busy in meetings with the armed forces." He continued, When I returned the call, US Vice President warned me of a big attack from Pakistan." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Speaking on the intent behind Operation Sindoor, PM Modi stated that India had decided to strike at the very epicentre of terror that supported the Pahalgam attackers. For Operation Sindoor, India had decided to attack the epicentre of terror that had supported Pahalgam terrorists," he said. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 18:37 IST News india World Backed India, But Armed Forces Didn't Get Congress Support: PM Modi On Op Sindoor Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Happy Nag Panchami Wishes 2025: Top 50+ Messages, Quotes And Images To Share Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 07:49 IST Happy Nag Panchami Wishes: Celebrate Naga Panchami with best wishes, messages and powerful quotes dedicated to Nag Devta and Lord Shiva perfect to share with loved ones today. Follow us on: Happy Nag Panchami Wishes 2025: This year, Nag Panchami will be celebrated on July 29. (AI generated image) Happy Nag Panchami Wishes 2025: Nag Panchami is a Hindu festival celebrated with great devotion across India. Marked during the sacred month of Sawan, dedicated to Lord Shiva, this auspicious day holds spiritual and cultural importance. As per Hindu beliefs, serpents are sacred beings and are worshipped as divine protectors. Devotees offer milk to snakes and pray to the Nag Devta for well-being, good health and protection from negative forces. This year, Nag Panchami will be observed today, on July 29, 2025. Happy Nag Panchami Wishes Recommended Stories May Lord Shiva bless you with unwavering strength and abundance on this divine day. Wishing you fortune, courage, and joy this Nag Panchami. May Shiva fulfill all your dreams. Sending warm blessings to you and your family. May peace and grace surround your home. As wishes come true today, I wish you happiness, good health, and everlasting peace. May Shiva Shankar guide your soul and remove all obstacles from your path. Happy Nag Panchami! Heres wishing you and your loved ones a day filled with devotion and divine blessings. Remember to offer your prayers to Nag Devta and milk as a sign of reverence. May the divine powers shield you from harm and lead you to light. Shubh Nag Panchami! May the universe align in your favour, and keep you strong and safe always. On this sacred day, may you learn to cherish both nature and spiritual energy. Let us celebrate Nag Panchami with joy and help others understand Lord Shivas divine values. May this day bring clarity, strength, and the removal of every struggle from your life. May your life be as serene as the Himalayas and as vast as the sky. Happy Nag Panchami! Let the sacred serpents remind us of harmony and the mysteries of life and transformation. Happy Nag Panchami! Let the blessings of Nag Devta and Lord Shiva bring brightness into your world. May this occasion fill your heart with compassion, your home with light, and your path with wisdom. Discover inner peace and hidden strength today, with Lord Shiva as your eternal guide. May the divine energy of Nag Panchami awaken new purpose within your soul. May luck follow your steps, and Lord Shiva reward your prayers with abundance and joy. Walk the path of success with the grace of Shiva. Wishing you a Happy Nag Panchami! Top 20 Messages for Nag Panchami May the grace of Nag Devta fill your life with peace, protection, and prosperity. May your prayers on this sacred day invite health, devotion, and clarity into your life. Lord Shiva and the serpent gods bless those who walk in truth and faith. Happy Nag Panchami! Today, let us honour the sacred bond between humanity and the natural world. Happy Nag Panchami! Embrace Nag Panchami with open arms and a heart full of reverence and tradition. Let divine forces guard your family and protect your spirit from all negativity. May balance and healing touch every aspect of your being on this blessed day. May your soul be guided by the wisdom of the serpents and strength of Shiva. Let your heart shine bright with gratitude, and your prayers flow with love. Happy Nag Panchami! May your journey be safe, steady, and sacredblessed by Nag Devtas eternal presence. On Nag Panchami, celebrate the unseen guardians of our world and their spiritual power. Let tradition ground you and divinity uplift you on this powerful day. May your belief in the divine be as firm as the earth, as vast as the sky. Today, we unite in prayer and purpose, honouring the wisdom of the divine. Let this day bring new blessings, calm energy, and clarity into your lifes path. Fill your home with positivity, your prayers with faith, and your life with meaning. Take a quiet moment to feel the divine rhythm of nature within and around you. Happy Nag Panchami! Let rituals become moments of mindfulness, and blessings flow into your everyday life. May Shivas light awaken truth, wisdom, and strength within your heart. Wishing you a Nag Panchami filled with joy, spiritual connection, and sacred reflection. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all 10 Inspiring Quotes for Nag Panchami The name of Lord Shiva is a shield for the soul and a source of inner strength." Shiva is the source of creation and destruction, embodying the dance of life and death, the essence of existence." Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev Shiva is the ultimate consciousness, the source of all that is and all that can be." Osho The name of Lord Shiva is a shield for the soul and a source of inner strength." To know Shiva is to know the essence of ones own self and the universe." Swami Vivekananda In Lord Shivas simplicity and austerity, there is a profound lesson in self-discipline and unwavering devotion." Lord Shivas teachings are a profound guide for aspiring leaders and seekers of wisdom." Dr. APJ Adbul Kalam Shiva, adorned with a snake, symbolizes a consciousness that is awake, alive, and yet still. On Naag Panchami, we celebrate this union of dynamic and static energies within us." The serpent around Lord Shivas neck on Naag Panchami reminds us of the infinite cycle of time and transformation that the divine embodies." Spirituality is not a part-time job. It is a full-time engagement." Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. About the Author Nibandh Vinod Nibandh Vinod is a seasoned journalist with 26 years of experience, specializing in covering events, festivals, and driving SEO content for News18.com. A tech-savvy person, Nibandh works closely with a young te... Read More Nibandh Vinod is a seasoned journalist with 26 years of experience, specializing in covering events, festivals, and driving SEO content for News18.com. A tech-savvy person, Nibandh works closely with a young te... Read More fashion, travel, Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. view comments First Published: July 29, 2025, 06:03 IST News lifestyle Happy Nag Panchami Wishes 2025: Top 50+ Messages, Quotes And Images To Share Samantha Ruth Prabhus Dead Hang Challenge Highlights The Importance Of Grip Strength Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 12:31 IST Samantha Ruth Prabhu shared a video on her Instagram where she demonstrated her grip strength by performing a 90-second dead hang challenge alongside her trainers. Grip strength is a key fitness component linked to longevity and overall health. Samantha Ruth Prabhu has always been admired for her disciplined approach to fitness and wellness. The actor regularly shares snippets from her workouts and wellness routines, encouraging her followers to invest in their physical and mental health. In a recent Instagram post, Samantha took on the 90-second dead hang challenge alongside her trainers, Pavneet Chhabra and Paridhi Joshi. More than just a test of endurance, the challenge spotlighted a key component of fitness that often goes unnoticed grip strength. In her caption, Samantha Ruth Prabhu wrote, Its not about how you look. Not about genetics. Not about muscle mass or flexed selfies. Its about how strong you are when no ones watching." The message served as a reminder that strength and resilience go far beyond aesthetics. Recommended Stories Take a look at the video here. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Take 20 (@take20health) What Is A Dead Hang? A dead hang is a deceptively simple exercise where you hang from a horizontal bar with your feet off the ground, using only your hands and upper body to hold on. While it may look easy, maintaining this position requires strong forearms, shoulders, core stability, and most importantly, grip strength. Its often used as a benchmark in fitness routines to assess upper-body endurance and joint stability. Why Does Grip Strength Matter? According to health experts like Canadian-American physician Dr. Peter Attia, grip strength is one of the strongest predictors of longevity and quality of life. In the same video Samantha posted, Dr. Attia explains that for individuals aged 4050, the ability to hang for a specific duration correlates with overall muscular and neurological health. He suggests that women in this age range should aim for a 90-second dead hang, while men should target two minutes. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He also mentions another important metric: the ability to carry a significant percentage of ones body weight in each hand for at least a minute, which reflects full-body strength and endurance. Functional movements like the dead hang are gaining popularity in the fitness world, not just for performance, but for the role they play in maintaining independence as we age. Samanthas challenge was not just a personal milestone, but a timely reminder to shift focus from how our bodies look to what they can actually do. fashion, travel, News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: July 29, 2025, 12:31 IST News lifestyle health-and-fitness Samantha Ruth Prabhus Dead Hang Challenge Highlights The Importance Of Grip Strength Stop Putting It Off: Whats Really Making Indian Women Delay Cervical Screenings Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 09:58 IST If you are a woman over 30 years or if you care for someone who is, consider discussing cervical cancer screening with a healthcare provider While HPV infections are quite common and often resolve on their own, when they persist, they can lead to the development of cervical cancer over time. Cervical cancer may be the second most common cancer among women in India, but its also one of the most preventable and treatable especially when detected early. In fact, up to 95% of cases can be successfully managed with timely screening. Yet, thousands of women delay or avoid it altogether. The reasons are not always medical. In many cases, they are emotional, social, and deeply cultural. From stigma around reproductive health to a lack of awareness about symptoms like irregular bleeding or unusual discharge, these silent barriers are especially pronounced in semi-urban and rural areas, where the disease burden is higher. Despite government guidelines recommending screening every five years for women aged 30 onwards, participation remains worryingly low. Cervical cancers burden in India is compounded by low awareness, stigma, and emotional inhibitionwomen often dismiss early symptoms or delay screening out of fear or shame, not realizing risk exists even without symptoms. Changing this conversation and normalizing regular, symptom-free screening from age 30 is vital to empower women to prioritize their health and improve survival outcomes," says Dr Sonia Mathai, Gynaecological Oncologist, Preventive Oncology, Tata Medical Center, Kolkata. Recommended Stories Dr Mathai shares five of the most significant reasons Indian women delay or avoid cervical cancer screening, along with practical strategies for overcoming these challenges: 1. Low Awareness and Prevalent Myths Many Indian women are unaware that cervical cancer develops in the cervix uteri, the lower part of the uterus connecting to the vagina or what its early warning signs might be. Even basic knowledge about the location of the cervix and the importance of regular screening remains limited for a large proportion of women. Misconceptions are widespread: some believe screening is only necessary when symptoms are present, or only for sexually active women, while others think it is unnecessary for postmenopausal women. Myths and misinformation persist across both urban and rural communities. Strategic educational programs implemented through schools, social media outreach, and trained community health workers play a crucial role in bridging these knowledge gaps. Consistent, clear information and first-hand survivor accounts can empower women to recognize the importance of screening and prioritize their health, especially in the absence of symptoms. Regular reinforcement and targeted health education have been shown to significantly increase awareness and improve attitudes toward cervical cancer prevention and screening among Indian women. 2. Social Stigma and Embarrassment For many, gynecological health remains a taboo subject. Conversations about reproductive organs or undergoing a pelvic exam often brings discomfort, amplified by fears of social judgment especially when healthcare providers are male. Many women opt to skip or delay screening rather than risk embarrassment. Building trust is key: clinics should offer privacy, women-only sessions where required, and train staff in empathy and discretion. When media and local leaders openly discuss cervical health, it helps dismantle negative perceptions and makes regular screening more acceptable. 3. Fear of Procedure or Diagnosis Anxiety about pain, unfamiliar medical procedures, or the result of screening keeps many women away. Some worry that the tests will be painful or complicated, while others fear the implications of a potential diagnosis, both for themselves and their families. Demystifying the procedures is essential. Explaining that VIA, Pap, and HPV test as screening tests are quick; low-risk procedures can help to reduce anxiety. Providing counseling before and after screening supports women emotionally and encourages participation. Sharing positive stories about early detection can inspire confidence and hope. 4. Inconvenient or Limited Access Many women face tangible challenges: distance to clinics, lack of safe transportation, limited opening hours, long wait times, or scarcity of female healthcare providers. These logistical barriers are particularly pronounced in rural and low-income urban areas. Innovative solutions such as mobile clinics, point-of-care rapid tests, and integration of screening with other health services are gradually making a difference. Flexible scheduling and expanding clinic hours can further reduce hurdles, helping lifesaving screening reach more women. 5. Limited Recommendation from Healthcare Providers While many women visit healthcare facilities for other concerns, the topic of cervical screening is rarely raised especially if the woman has no symptoms. Missed opportunities for recommendation by healthcare professionals perpetuate low uptake. Training all health workers to proactively discuss screening and integrating reminders into routine checkups for women aged 3065 can bridge this gap. Making cervical screening a standard part of womens healthcare will help normalize preventive care. The Path Forward top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The good news is that India is making strides in awareness and access. The government recommends regular screening, and new indigenous test kits are set to reduce costs and broaden availabilityeven for women in remote settings. Acceptability of self-sampling is increasing, making it easier for women in rural or lower-income areas to participate without embarrassment or logistical hassle. To truly move the needle, however, targeted education, improved infrastructure, supportive policies, and community-level outreach remain essential. If you are a woman over 30 years or if you care for someone who is, consider discussing cervical cancer screening with a healthcare provider. Early detection remains the most effective tool in the fight against this disease. About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... Read More Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... Read More fashion, travel, News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. First Published: July 29, 2025, 09:58 IST News lifestyle health-and-fitness Stop Putting It Off: Whats Really Making Indian Women Delay Cervical Screenings Rakul Preet Singhs Latest Airport Look Is The Definition Of Travel Chic Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 16:41 IST Rakul Preet Singh was recently spotted at the airport. She kept things comfortable yet chic in a pair of loose jeans, a matching jacket, and a pink cap. Follow us on: Rakul's airport style was all about understated elegance. Rakul Preet Singh was recently spotted at the airport, and once again, she reminded us why shes a favourite when it comes to off-duty fashion. Jetting off to London for the final schedule of De De Pyaar De 2, the actress opted for a look that was equal parts stylish and functional, and completely travel-ready. Decoding Rakul Preet Singhs Airport Look Recommended Stories Wearing a breezy co-ord set in a muted tone, Rakul Preet Singh kept things simple yet striking. Minimal accessories, a natural glow, and her signature easy charm completed the look, proving that airport style doesnt need to be loud to make a statement. Her ensemble hit the sweet spot between comfort and chic. She donned a pair of oversized loose jeans that she had paired with a grey top and matching jacket. She left her hair open and added a pink cap to her look. Take a look at Rakuls OOTD here. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Varinder Chawla (@varindertchawla) Rakuls airport aesthetic has always leaned toward understated elegance: clean silhouettes, soft layers, and fuss-free details. This latest look felt true to that signature, echoing the traits that make her so relatable both on and off screen: effortless poise, modern cool, and an innate sense of balance. As she flies off to wrap the final leg of shooting, anticipation around De De Pyaar De 2 continues to build. The original film was a commercial hit, with Rakuls portrayal of Ayesha witty, self-assured, and emotionally grounded, leaving a lasting impression. Fans are eagerly waiting to see what new layers she brings to the character in the sequel. But for now, its her jet-set style thats got everyone talking. Rakul isnt just flying to London, shes doing it in fashion-forward stride. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Rakul Preet Singhs Upcoming Projects On the work front, Rakul was last seen in Mere Husband Ki Biwi, where she shared the screen with Arjun Kapoor and Bhumi Pednekar. Apart from De De Pyaar De 2, the actor also has Indian 3 in the pipeline. fashion, travel, Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. view comments Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: July 29, 2025, 16:41 IST News lifestyle Rakul Preet Singhs Latest Airport Look Is The Definition Of Travel Chic Nepal To Cambodia: 9 International Destinations Indians Can Visit With Just Rs 50,000 Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 17:36 IST Best International Destinations To Visit From India: These nine countries offer a beautiful blend of beauty, culture, and scenic views without breaking your bank. Bali has become a byword for laid-back luxury, making it an ideal destination for couples, honeymooners, and anyone seeking a tranquil getaway. Most Indians dream of going on an international vacation with their loved ones and friends, but face the brunt of heavy expenses and budget constraints that completely dampen their spirits. However, contrary to perceptions, travelling abroad doesnt necessarily mean breaking your bank. Here are the nine countries that Indian citizens can explore within Rs 50,000, while enjoying the best flights, stay, food and other travelling luxuries. Recommended Stories Best International Destinations To Visit Under Rs 50,000 Nepal Nestled amidst the scenic Himalayas, Nepal is full of beautiful lakes and peaceful monasteries that attract tourists from all over the world. Indians have an additional advantage in touring the country, with no visa requirement and low-cost bus or train options to cross the border. You can easily complete a trip to Nepal within Rs 50,000. Sri Lanka Like Nepal, another beautiful neighbouring country for Indians to travel to without budget hindrances is Sri Lanka, due to its blend of culture and history, apart from the amazing coastline amidst the Indian Ocean. In cities like Colombo, Galle and Kandy, you can explore temples, beaches, tea plantations and wildlife reserves without having to spend much on accommodation, travel or food. Vietnam A rising number of Indian tourists opt for Vietnam as their perfect getaway because of its affordable delicacies, low-cost accommodations, and cheap transportation in popular cities like Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh. Vietnam presents a rich and diverse experience for tourists without stretching their budgets. Thailand With its calming beaches, scenic locations, spiritual temples and buzzing nightlife, Thailand has been attracting Indian tourists for several years now. It is another affordable and accessible foreign destination for Indian travellers, offering cheaper flights, a visa on arrival, low-cost accommodation and a range of pocket-friendly eating spots. Laos Those looking to break away from their busy and taxing routine, Laos is the place to be in due to its slow, peaceful way of life. With its scenic mountains and dense greenery, Laos shouldnt be overlooked in your list of countries to explore. While the visa is offered on arrival, travelling to Laos also has very low daily costs involved as an Indian tourist. Bhutan Peaceful and spiritual, Bhutan is another perfect getaway destination for Indian tourists. As an Indian, you neither require a visa to visit Bhutan nor have to endure entrance hurdles. The food, stay, and travel are very affordable, which helps you plan a vacation to the countrys soulful monasteries in the calming and clean cities like Thimphu and Paro. Indonesia (Bali) If booked in advance, flights to Bali can be found at surprisingly affordable prices. Once in Indonesia, Indian travellers can expect to see scenic rice fields, waterfalls, ancient temples and sunny beaches. All that without losing too much on travel, food and staying facilities. Armenia Another country filled with breathtaking mountains and peaceful monasteries, Armenia is just as stunning as it is affordable. You can plan a pocket-friendly getaway to this country, with accessible and cheap flights, inexpensive meals and accommodation facilities. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Cambodia One of Southeast Asias most tourist-friendly destinations, Cambodia is home to the most beautiful locations, including its historical sites that attract Indian travellers every year. Managing a visit to Cambodian cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap within Rs 50,000 should be fairly easy because of the countrys affordable hotel stays, rides and eating facilities. fashion, travel, News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: July 29, 2025, 15:10 IST News lifestyle travel Nepal To Cambodia: 9 International Destinations Indians Can Visit With Just Rs 50,000 Tun Wood More Valuable Than Teak, Rosewood, Mahogany; One Tree Can Earn You Rs 2 Lakh Curated By : Translation Desk-Local18 Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 09:23 IST Tun saplings are ready in 6-12 months and mature in 3-5 years. With little care and no chemicals needed, its an easy, low-cost option for organic farming Tun wood is prized for its strength, smooth texture, and high-quality finish. (Local18) The mountainous state of Uttarakhand, long celebrated for its natural beauty and biodiversity, is now gaining attention for its economic potential. A major contributor to this new wave of prosperity is Tun wood, grown extensively in the Kumaon and Garhwal regions. This durable and attractive timber is not only meeting local demands but is also in high demand across major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Tun wood is prized for its strength, smooth texture, and high-quality finish. What makes it especially valuable is its natural resistance to fungus and termites, making it an ideal material for furniture, musical instruments, carved idols, and architectural elements like doors and windows. Its glossy surface and sturdiness ensure long-term durability, which is why it is being used extensively across industries without hesitation. Recommended Stories According to RP Kandpal, a resident of Bageshwar, cultivating Tun trees is relatively easy. The hilly terrain and climate of Uttarakhand are well-suited for its growth. Tun saplings are ready for planting within 6-12 months and mature within 3 to 5 years. Remarkably, it requires minimal care and no chemical pesticides, making it a cost-effective and organic farming option. A fully grown Tun tree can fetch anywhere between Rs 1.5 to Rs 2 lakh in the market, offering farmers a significant boost in income. This has made it an increasingly popular choice among local farmers and youth, many of whom are now shifting from traditional agriculture to commercial Tun farming. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Recognising the potential, the government is also stepping in to support its cultivation. The Forest Department and Krishi Vigyan Kendras are providing free saplings and training to promote Tun farming. Encouraged by the rising demand and profits, many young people have returned to the hills to take up this sustainable farming practice. The growing popularity of Tun cultivation is not just generating income, it is also addressing the serious issue of migration from hill regions. With minimal investment and high returns, Tun farming is becoming a viable and promising source of green income for Uttarakhands youth and farmers. If properly promoted and supported, this could well spark a new economic revolution in the state. fashion, travel, News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. Location : Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal), India, India First Published: July 29, 2025, 09:23 IST News lifestyle Tun Wood More Valuable Than Teak, Rosewood, Mahogany; One Tree Can Earn You Rs 2 Lakh Indian-Origin Singapore Officer Pleads Guilty To Seeking Sexual Favours For Visa Help Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 23:23 IST Indian-origin ICA officer Kannan Morice Rajagopal Jayaram pleaded guilty to accepting sexual favours from six Indian nationals in exchange for visa extensions. Follow us on: In this representative AI-generated image, a courtroom in Singapore is depicted during a corruption hearing. A middle-aged Indian-origin man, dressed in formal attire, sits in the defendant's box with a tense expression. In the background, a judge presides over the proceedings from an elevated bench, while prosecutors present documents. (IMAGE: IMAGEN 4/NEWS18) An Indian-origin officer working with the Singapore immigration department has pleaded guilty on Monday to accepting bribes in the form of sexual favours from six Indian nationals, a report by the Straits Times said. It said that the sexual favours were asked in exchange for facilitating their short-term visit pass applications to extend their stay in the city-state. Kannan Morice Rajagopal Jayaram, 55, who was serving as an inspector in Singapores Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), committed the offences between 2022 and 2023. Recommended Stories Jayaram, admitted in court on Monday to targeting vulnerable applicants, including a 26-year-old Indian man who was trying to extend his stay in Singapore to pursue further studies. In return for approving the extension, Jayaram sought sexual favours, court documents revealed. Jayaram was an ICA inspector overseeing a team that handled visa extension requests. While the officers operated under ICA guidelines, they retained discretion to approve or reject applications based on individual circumstances. Prosecutors said Jayaram misused this discretion for personal gain. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Three more charges involving other Indian men, aged between 25 and 30, will be taken into consideration during sentencing, which is scheduled for August 18. Jayaram was first charged in 2023 and has been suspended from duty since April that year, the ICA said. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More view comments Location : Singapore, Singapore First Published: July 29, 2025, 23:23 IST News nri singapore Indian-Origin Singapore Officer Pleads Guilty To Seeking Sexual Favours For Visa Help Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Right Word | How Wokes Are Deploying Cloward-Piven Strategy To Create Anarchy Written By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 17:29 IST After sowing the seeds of anarchy and chaos in the developed West, the wokes are now moving towards democracies like India and other countries of the global South. It is clear that the sustained pressure of the left is forcing creation of gigantic welfare states across the world. (Representational Image) The United States might win some of the tariff battles but it is all set to lose the larger economic war because of the complete surrender of the American corporations to the leftist-woke ideology. These are the lessons that every democracy needs to learn including India. New York Post journalist Charles Gasparino talked about this noxious ideology of progressive politics in the boardroom" in his 2024 book Go Woke, Go Broke: The Inside story of Corporate Radicalization in America. This is an ideology, he says, that needs to die a thousand deaths." Recommended Stories The left-wing forces have assembled to transform Corporate America into something resembling the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. The left might hate capitalism but it has been busy implementing capitalist tools to bend big business at will," adds Gasparino. Abhijit Joag has dwelt on this issue in detail in his seminal work, Termites: How the Left is Destroying the World through Subversion, exposing how wokes are globally coordinating to destroy the corporate economy in the democratic world. And whatever tariff wars a country may win or lose, all the gains will be ultimately swept away. According to Joag (pp. 230), in the name of social justice, neo-Marxists are conducting audits of company boards to find out whether adequate representation has been given to protected groups like Blacks, Minorities and the LGBTQ, and are pressurising corporates to increase this representation. Behind this seemingly noble cause, the Left wants to promote identity conflict within the corporate sector and subvert it from within. Woke consultants conduct Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Audit of corporates and rank them on social conduct. Legal suits are filed against those with poor ranks. This way wokeism has monopolised the right to distribute character certificates to corporates and publish those who do not fall in line. Cloward-Piven Strategy Joag interestingly goes back to the 1960s and helps us recall the Cloward-Piven Strategy which is in full display now not only in the US but is being replicated in most of the liberal democracies and civilisational states including India. A neo-Marxist couple, Francis Pox Piven, a Professor in Political Science and Sociology at the Graduate Centre of the City University of New York, and her husband Richard Cloward, published a paper on May 2, 1966 that detailed out a strategy to engineer a huge crisis in the US economy, which would augur the way for Communism. This is known as the Cloward-Piven Strategy. The idea behind this strategy is to overload the welfare system excessively by discouraging people to work and encouraging them to enjoy freebies. This would ultimately lead to collapse of the system. The key elements: of this strategy are mobilising the marginalised sections of the society to demand their rightful" benefits from the government, and then overloading the welfare system through mass enrolment. Cloward and Piven argued that this would create a political crisis that could only be resolved by implementing more progressive policies which actually meant paving the way for Marxist or Communist regime. If you remember the riots and violent protests by so-called pro-Palestine supporters over the last couple of years and the anti-farm laws and anti-CAA protests of the wokes and Islamists in India, you should match the script with the prose of the 1967 book by Cloward and Piven: The Breaking of American Social Compact. The book advocates the use of Disruptive Protest to push their demands. By disruptive protest, they mean, incendiarism, riots, sit-ins and other forms of civil disobedience, great surges in demand for relief benefits, rent strikes, wild cat strikes, obstructing production on assembly lines". The goal is to weaken the regime. When the regime is vulnerable and insecure it is more likely to bargain and compromise. Cloward and Piven say social movements thrive on conflict. So, where there is no conflict, the wokes will have to create one. The fact that this paper came in 1966 followed by the book as mentioned above is evidence of how Marxists have penetrated the capitalist systems since the 1960s and arguably much before. In a nutshell, there are four steps of the Cloward-Piven strategy: Overload and break the welfare system; create anarchy and chaos; take control of the situation; implement socialism and communism to establish a new order. It is clear that the sustained pressure of the left is forcing creation of gigantic welfare states across the world. Welfare schemes are seen as entitlements now even in the developed economies and the same is happening in emerging economies too especially wherever there are democratic regimes. This has led to an increasing pressure of debt on the economies. In an increasingly fragmented global economic order, this has added to the fragility of the nation states especially the US and the West. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all After sowing the seeds of anarchy and chaos in the developed West, the wokes are now moving towards democracies like India and other countries of the global South. What we need is a collective will and effort to fight these dark forces both at the domestic as well as at the global level. The writer is an author and a columnist. His X handle is @ArunAnandLive. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: July 29, 2025, 17:29 IST News opinion Right Word | How Wokes Are Deploying Cloward-Piven Strategy To Create Anarchy Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... H&R Block submitted nine recommendations to government including raising tax-free threshold to $25,000 and making instant asset write-offs permanent. Tax firm submits nine recommendations to government roundtable, drawing from 770,000 annual client interactions H&R Block has lodged a submission with the Federal Governments Economic Reform Roundtable containing nine key recommendations aimed at supporting small businesses and easing cost-of-living pressures. The submission is set for consideration at the August roundtable focused on improving productivity, enhancing economic resilience, and strengthening budget sustainability. The recommendations come from Australias largest firm of tax accountants, which operates over 400 offices nationwide with over 2,500 staff across every state and territory. The company services 770,000 working-class Australians annually, accounting for over 6% of total individual tax returns submitted each year. According to the submission, the recommendations have been shaped through extensive consultation with our offices across the nation and are described as pragmatic, easy to implement, and designed to deliver immediate benefits to the broader economy by improving productivity, enhancing labour market flexibility, and reducing expenditure. Small business measures H&R Block recommends making the instant asset write-off permanent to reduce the uncertainty of year-to-year expirations, extensions, and adjustments. The firm argues this will allow small business to better plan out their investment timing decisions over the medium term, rather than just optimising for the next year. The submission calls for standardizing the definition of small business across different tax measures. Currently, the CGT small business discount applies at a $2 million turnover threshold, the instant asset write-off at $10 million, while most other income tax concessions apply up to $50 million. H&R Block wants these various thresholds standardised at the higher rate of $50 million, which would act as a boost to small business activity and also aid compliance and simplify tax administration. The firm opposes recent ATO initiatives moving small businesses from quarterly to monthly BAS filing for poor lodgement performance. Their position is that businesses with late BAS lodgements are often already straining under their compliance and administrative burden; thus, further increasing that burden by demanding monthly BAS lodgements is unlikely to be an effective remedy. H&R Block proposes requiring the ATO to produce a certificate of compliance for significant tax administration changes, demonstrating that changes are designed to increase productivity and reduce the compliance burden on those affected. Under this proposal, if the ATO cant demonstrate that, the changes dont proceed. The submission also recommends increasing the $40,000 non-commercial losses threshold for primary producers, noting this amount has remained unchanged since the rule took effect, and it is no longer a realistic figure for current primary producers. Individual Tax Changes The centerpiece recommendation involves raising the tax-free threshold to $25,000. H&R Block states this will increase the incentive to work and reward lower-paid individuals, with a consequent flow-on effect through the broader economy. The firm wants tax thresholds indexed annually by the rate of CPI or WPI to combat bracket creep. For superannuation, H&R Block recommends increasing super concessions for lower income earners e.g. the low-income super tax offset, government co-contributions, spouse contributions. They argue this would boost the retirement system for the low-paid and non-earning spouses while not encouraging the accumulation of wealth by the well-off. Pensioner work incentives The submission addresses aged pensioner work incentives, noting that pensioners currently can earn $450/fortnight without it affecting their pension payments. H&R Block recommends that anything that is earned up to this amount is tax-free. They describe this as a measure that would improve labour market flexibility by encouraging more pensioners to work part-time or full-time. Company positioning H&R Block positions itself as having firsthand insight into the structural inefficiencies and complexities managed by everyday Australians, as well as the practical reforms needed to improve productivity through its role in supporting small businesses, sole traders, and families. The company states it pride ourselves on finding savings for middle Australia and expresses willingness to offer a briefing to Government on our recommendations and offer our expertise for further consultation, given our unique position as both a tax agent and a significant employer of Australians. The submission concludes with H&R Block saying they are grateful for the opportunity to work productively with Government to ensure a more resilient economic future for Australia and look forward to continuing engagement on these issues. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 11:28 IST International Tiger Day is observed annually on July 29 to spread awareness about tiger conservation. 1 / 9 International Tiger Day is observed annually on July 29 to spread awareness about tiger conservation. (Image: AI-Generated) 2 / 9 The day also highlights threats and legal reinforcement against tiger poaching and encourages governments, NGOs and communities to unite against habitat loss, climate change and human-wildlife conflict. (Image: AI-Generated) ADVERTISEMENT 3 / 9 Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh: It is known for its high tiger density and scenic landscapes, including rocky hills and the historic Bandhavgarh Fort. (Image: AI-Generated) 4 / 9 Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan: One of the largest national parks in the country, visitors are almost guaranteed to spot the majestic animal here. (Image: File Pic) ADVERTISEMENT 5 / 9 Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh: This iconic park is described in detail in Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book. A jungle safari between April and June is the best time to spot the tiger here. (Image: AI-Generated) 6 / 9 Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand: The oldest national park in the country, it is home to several tigers, particularly the Royal Bengal Tiger. (Image: AI-Generated) ADVERTISEMENT 7 / 9 Kaziranga National Park, Assam: Yes, it is known for its world-famous one-horned rhino. However, the national park is also a great spot to tigers. (Image: AI-Generated) 8 / 9 Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh: If you lucky enough, you can spot the striped animals enjoying a swim during summers. (Image: AI-Generated) ADVERTISEMENT Last Updated: July 28, 2025, 20:50 IST 1 / 6 A fresh controversy has erupted around prominent saint Premanand Maharaj after a video of his latest sermon went viral, triggering sharp criticism across social media and civil society circles. In the clip, Maharaj makes sweeping comments about young men and women, suggesting their past relationships render them unfit for marriage. (News18 Hindi) 2 / 6 Referring to the "character" of todays youth, Maharaj said that a boy who has been with four girls will never be satisfied with his wife, because he has become used to adultery. And, a girl who has been with four men has no courage left to accept a husband, he added. "Out of 100, hardly two or four girls are such who live a pious life and are dedicated to one man," he said. (News18 Hindi) ADVERTISEMENT 3 / 6 The remarks have drawn immediate backlash, with critics calling them "regressive", "sexist", and "deeply harmful to women". Several compared them to a similar controversy involving storyteller Aniruddhacharya, who earlier this year made derogatory statements about women that also sparked protests. (News18 Hindi) 4 / 6 Social media platforms lit up with divided reactions. While some conservative voices defended the comments as a "reminder to uphold Indian culture", the majority labelled them "a dangerous moral policing exercise" cloaked in religious authority. (News18 Hindi) ADVERTISEMENT 5 / 6 Women's rights groups didn't hold back either. The president of a Mathura-based women's collective said that such mindset judges women by their past, whereas society should recognise them by their present and humanity. Other activists warned that such statements could reinforce patriarchal narratives and justify discrimination under the guise of preserving tradition. (News18 Hindi) Acts On Behalf Of Pakistan: Himanta Calls Gogoi Disgrace To Assam After Op Sindoor Remarks Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 12:14 IST Assam MP Gaurav Gogoi attacked the government during Operation Sindoor debate in Lok Sabha. CM Himanta Biswa Sarma criticised his remarks, dubbing him a "disgrace" to the state. Himanta Biswa Sarma slams Gaurav Gogoi over his Op Sindoor remarks (PTI Image) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi over his speech in Lok Sabha during Operation Sindoor debate, alleging that his remarks proved" he acts on behalf of Pakistan". Criticising him for his address in the House, Sarma dubbed Gogoi as a disgrace to Assam". Recommended Stories speech delivered by our MP from Jorhat in Parliament yesterday proved beyond doubt that he acts on behalf of Pakistan. His secret trip and close ties with the Pakistani establishment speak volumes. With his wife and both the kids holding foreign citizenship, he can leave India any time. He is a disgrace to Assam and a betrayal of our pride as proud Indian," the Assam Chief Minister posted on X. speech delivered by our MP from Jorhat in Parliament yesterday proved beyond doubt that he acts on behalf of Pakistan. His secret trip and close ties with the Pakistani establishment speak volumes. With his wife and both the kids holding foreign citizenship, he can leave India Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) July 29, 2025 Sarmas strong remarks came after Gogoi questioned the government over a number of topics during the Op Sindoor debate, such as Donald Trumps ceasefire claims and jets being allegedly downed in India. The Congress leaders remarks in the Parliament were also played up by Pakistani media, which was slammed by Assam Minister Pijush Hazarika. This is how the @INCAssam President serves the interest of Pakistan . He has excellent popularity there . pic.twitter.com/CbcKPm7mds Pijush Hazarika (@Pijush_hazarika) July 29, 2025 Gogoi asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom did you surrender" if Pakistan was ready to kneel down. The entire country, and the Opposition, were supporting PM Modi. Suddenly, on 10th May, we got to know that there had been a ceasefire. Why? We wanted to know from PM Modi that if Pakistan was ready to kneel down, then why did you stop, and to whom did you surrender? The US President has said this 26 times that he forced India and Pakistan to announce a ceasefire," the Congress MP from Jorhat said. He also asked Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who initiated the debate on the governments end and was present in the House when Gogoi spoke, about the number of Indian fighter jets lost during the India-Pakistan conflict. He alleged that the soldiers of India are being lied to". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all We want to know from Rajnath Singh ji today how many of our fighter jets were downed. We have to tell this not just to the public but also to our jawans, as they are being lied to as well," he said. He further asked how terrorists from Pakistan entered Pahalgam and carried out the heinous attack on Indian civilians. About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Location : Assam, India, India First Published: July 29, 2025, 12:14 IST News politics Acts On Behalf Of Pakistan: Himanta Calls Gogoi Disgrace To Assam After Op Sindoor Remarks Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... BJP Likely To Go Solo In BMC Polls; Poonam Mahajan Tipped As Mumbai Unit Chief: Sources Reported By : CNN-News18 Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 10:10 IST A series of meetings was recently held in Delhi between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis to finalise the leadership changes. A series of meetings were recently held in Delhi between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis. (PTI) The BJP is preparing to contest the upcoming local body elections, including the crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls, without alliance partners, sources have said. The party is reportedly considering fielding its own candidates independently, signalling a shift in strategy aimed at consolidating its base in Mumbai. In an organisational reshuffle, senior leader Poonam Mahajan is likely to be named the next Mumbai BJP president, replacing Ashish Shelar. BJP is likely to announce her name soon. The frontrunners for the position were Poonam Mahajan, Ameet Satam, and Pravin Darekar. Recommended Stories A series of meetings was recently held in Delhi between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to finalise the leadership changes. Sources added that the formal announcement is expected after a final round of talks with Shelar, who returned to Mumbai earlier today after being away. According to News18 Marathi, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is currently in Delhi, where key developments related to Maharashtras political and developmental roadmap have reportedly taken place. Senior sources indicate that high-level meetings in the capital have led to important decisions regarding the Mahayuti governments upcoming strategy, including whether to contest the local body elections collectively or go solo in select regions. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Supreme Court had earlier directed that local body elections be held within the next four months, setting the stage for a monsoon or post-monsoon electoral battle. As both ruling and opposition blocs begin groundwork, the BJPs recalibrated strategy signals a new phase in Maharashtras urban politics. The Mahavikas Aghadi, too, appears fragmented, giving the BJP further reason to test its strength on its own in key cities About the Author Yesha Kotak Yesha Kotak, Special Correspondent, CNN-News18, specialises in crime, court and investigative reporting. She describes herself as a print reporter in TV. With six years of experience in journalism, she has been... Read More Yesha Kotak, Special Correspondent, CNN-News18, specialises in crime, court and investigative reporting. She describes herself as a print reporter in TV. With six years of experience in journalism, she has been... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 09:22 IST News politics BJP Likely To Go Solo In BMC Polls; Poonam Mahajan Tipped As Mumbai Unit Chief: Sources Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Fake News' Clause Removed: Karnataka Govt RevisMisinformation Bill After Facing Flak Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 06:30 IST The initial draft had proposed the creation of a 'Fake News on Social Media Regulatory Authority' and included severe penal provisions but this was seen as overreaching As it stands revised titled the Karnataka Misinformation Regulation Bill, 2025, it is expected to be tabled during the monsoon session of the state assembly. (Image: PTI/File) The Karnataka government is set to revise its proposed Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025, after an earlier draft triggered widespread criticism and raised questions over legal tenability. The words fake news" have been removed from the new version and, as it stands revised titled the Karnataka Misinformation Regulation Bill, 2025, it is expected to be tabled during the monsoon session of the state assembly. Recommended Stories According to sources, the scrutiny committee headed by state law minister HK Patil has cleared the draft, which is likely to be placed before the cabinet. News18 accessed a copy of the draft bill, which comes at a time when governments across India are stepping up digital regulation. WHAT DOES THE DRAFT BILL SAY? In the draft bill that will be submitted in the upcoming monsoon session beginning August 19, the definition of misinformation has been retained: knowingly or recklessly making a false or inaccurate statement of fact, whether wholly or in part, in the context in which it appears, excluding opinion, satire, religious or philosophical sermons, and parody as long as a reasonable person would not interpret the content as factual". The bill furthers the governments intent: The State Government shall undertake efforts to set up infrastructure to curb the spread of misinformation in Karnataka, including efforts to curb the spread of misinformation relating to policies, schemes, guidelines and initiatives of the Government of Karnataka or information that has a tendency to disrupt public order or incite persons to commit cognizable offences." The bill defines communication" as dissemination of information to 10 or more persons in Karnataka, through any medium including bots, computer resources, television, or in-person communication. This applies to content originating both inside and outside Karnataka, as long as it reaches people within the state. The offence of misinformation is defined as follows: no person, whether inside or outside Karnataka, shall communicate or abet the communication of misinformation to persons in Karnataka if such communication disrupts public tranquillity, affects the conduct of free and fair elections in any part of the state, or incites others to commit an offence. Anyone found guilty can be punished with imprisonment ranging from three months to five years and a fine. Abetment carries a punishment of up to two years imprisonment and a fine." SPECIAL COURTS TO DIRECT MEDIA HOUSES The draft bill states that special courts may be established to issue directions to media houses to correct or take down content. Non-compliance can lead to up to two years imprisonment and a daily fine of Rs 25,000. For the purpose of providing for speedy trial of offences under this Act, the State Government shall, with concurrence of the Chief Justice of the High Court of Karnataka, by notification in the Official Gazette, establish Special Court comprising a Sessions Judge," the draft bill states. CONTROVERSIAL SANATAN CLAUSE TO BE DROPPED? The initial draft had proposed the creation of a Fake News on Social Media Regulatory Authority to ensure complete ban" on fake news and included penal provisions of up to seven years imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10 lakh. But, this came under scrutiny as it was seen as overreaching. The first so-called draft seen in the public domain was fake. We have been working on a comprehensive one that will control misinformation and also ensure that people get what is real news," a source in the IT/BT ministry said. The bill had come under fire from several quarters after the draft included terms flagged as excessive, especially a clause that proposed a seven-year jail term for the publication of content amounting to disrespect of Sanatan symbols and beliefs on social media platforms". This clause was among the most controversial and is likely to be dropped or reworded, sources said. The revised version is presently under scrutiny of the IT BT, home, and law departments. The first two are reviewing the penal clauses, which were earlier flagged for their severity. Officials involved in the review said several portions of the earlier draft had been directly lifted from the Union governments 2019 Fake News (Prohibition) Bill. It mentions ministers like information and broadcasting, which is not even a state subject. Section 15, which deals with company offences, was also reportedly taken verbatim from Section 7 of the Union bill. All of this, officials said, has now been reviewed and reworked in the revised version. Even the Rs 10 lakh penalty was copied from the Centres bill, all of it had to be reviewed and worked upon," a senior official told News18. In April last year, the ministry of corporate affairs introduced the draft Digital Competition Act to tackle anti-competitive behaviour by tech giants such as Google, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft and X. In a similar development, X Corp (formerly Twitter) filed a writ petition in the Karnataka High Court in March, questioning the Centres powers under Section 69A of the IT Act after being ordered to block more than 8,000 accounts in India. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Later that year, Meta was fined Rs 213.14 crore by the Competition Commission of India for alleged violations of competition law linked to WhatsApps 2021 privacy policy, which reportedly allowed data to be shared across Meta platforms. WhatsApp was also asked to trace the origin of flagged messages, raising questions around its end-to-end encryption. It has challenged the 2021 IT Rules in the Delhi HC. State IT-BT minister Priyank Kharge had earlier told News18: Were not trying to change any policy but only trying to strengthen what already exists and ensure that there is news and not misinformation that is given out to people," adding, the idea is to look at what already exists, connect the dots, and bring out an effective bill." About the Author Rohini Swamy Rohini Swamy, Associate Editor at News18, has been a journalist for nearly two decades in the television and digital space. She covers south India for News18s digital platform. She has previously worked with t... Read More Rohini Swamy, Associate Editor at News18, has been a journalist for nearly two decades in the television and digital space. She covers south India for News18s digital platform. She has previously worked with t... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 06:30 IST News politics 'Fake News' Clause Removed: Karnataka Govt RevisMisinformation Bill After Facing Flak Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Govt Must Track Down, Eliminate Remaining Pahalgam Terrorists': Kharge In Rajya Sabha Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 16:41 IST Kharge targeted PM Modi for his silence on Trumps repeated claims that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor LoP in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge speaks during a debate in the House. Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday said the government must find and eradicate" the remaining terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam attack. Speaking during the special discussion on Operation Sindoor in the Upper House, the senior Congress leader said that the INDIA bloc parties stood firmly behind the armed forces actions during the military operation. Recommended Stories We unanimously lauded them, supported govt in national interest," he added. He, however, stated that despite the support, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked the Opposition parties during poll rallies". Additionally, the senior Congress Stalwart slammed PM Modi for remaining silent on US President Donald Trumps repeated claims that he helped broker a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during the operation. Kharge questioned why the ceasefire announcement came from Washington and not New Delhi. The ceasefire was not announced by our Prime Minister or Defence Minister, it came from Washington," he said, referring to Trumps statements. VIDEO | Congress chief and Rajya Sabha LoP Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) questions the central government over US President Donald Trumps repeated claims that he brokered a deal between India and Pakistan using trade as leverage. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) pic.twitter.com/uF7nSKHuZv Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 29, 2025 He also expressed concern over Trumps claim that five fighter jets were shot down during the military exchange in May, calling on PM Modi to provide a clear explanation. PM Modi, who went all the way to the US and held a rally for Trump, even said there, Phir ek baar Trump sarkar. Now, he should openly condemn his dear friend, who recently claimed that five jets were downed during the Indo-Pak standoff," Kharge said. If no Indian fighter jet has been downed, PM Modi should tell, country wants to know it," he added. Kharge further demanded that the government reveal the details of the ceasefire. The government must spell out the conditions under which the ceasefire was agreed upon. Did the US play a role in it?" he asked. He also questioned why the Prime Minister had not publicly rejected Trumps statements about mediation between India and Pakistan. India does not accept third-party intervention. Why PM Modi did not contradict Trumps claims?" he said. The Congress leader went on to criticise the Prime Ministers silence when, according to him, BJP MPs and ministers make statements that disrespect the armed forces. Why does the Prime Minister remain silent when BJP MPs, ministers insult our armed forces?" Kharge asked. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Responding to Kharge, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh clarified that there was no communication between Prime Minister Modi and Donald Trump regarding the ceasefire. We reached a cessation of hostilities at the request of the Pakistan DGMO. Since April 22, there has been no communication between PM Modi and President Trump," Singh told the House. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 16:12 IST News politics 'Govt Must Track Down, Eliminate Remaining Pahalgam Terrorists': Kharge In Rajya Sabha Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... How Congress Move To Muzzle Shashi Tharoor, Manish Tewari May Backfire In Op Sindoor Debate Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 14:02 IST While Congress started off confidently, Home Minister Amit Shah's speech on Operation Mahadev may have put the party on the backfoot. Follow us on: Congress MPs Shashi Tharoor (left) and Manish Tewari (right). (Image: PTI) Silence speaks volumes. It often ends up silencing those who want to make noise. The Operation Sindoor debate in Parliament began with the Congress party feeling confident. They believed they had two issues to silence the government on. Firstly, Trumps claim that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Secondly, the whereabouts of the Pahalgam terrorists. The Congress wanted to highlight these issues and silence the dissenters, specifically party MPs Shashi Tharoor and Manish Tewari. Both were part of the multi-party delegation for the Narendra Modi governments outreach programme after Operation Sindoor. However, they irked their party by being chosen as representatives by the government. They were not Congresss official choices, leading to a distancing of the Congress from these two. It was not evident at first that Congress did not want them to speak on the Operation Sindoor debate. Most of the delegation members, like DMK MP Kanimozhi, NCP-SP MP Supriya Sule, and BJP MP Tejaswi Surya, did speak. However, Tewari and Tharoor did not. Recommended Stories Sources close to Tharoor indicated that he was asked to speak at the last minute. He conveyed that, as the party whip was applicable to him, he would be expected to criticise the government. However, having defended Operation Sindoor globally and personally believing it was successful, Tharoor opted out. News18 is privy to the fact that Manish Tewari sent a mail to Congress expressing his desire to speak but received no response. A day later, he posted cryptically on X, quoting Manoj Kumars famous movie, saying, Bharat ka rehne waala hun, Bharat ki baat sunaata hun (Im an Indian, I tell the story of India)," implying that the nation was more important than the party. But does Congress have the last laugh? Home Minister Amit Shah provided details of Operation Mahadev, addressing Congresss allegations and questions on where are the terrorists?" top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Both Tharoor and Manish do not wish to openly confront their party and will remain silent for now. However, their discontent is evident. Their supporters argue that, being astute politicians, they would have spoken like Indians, without necessarily embarrassing their party. The issue was that Congress lacked confidence in them. This led to their silencing. Ironically, Congress now finds itself at a loss for words regarding Operation Sindoor. About the Author Pallavi Ghosh Pallavi Ghosh has covered politics and Parliament for 15 years, and has reported extensively on Congress, UPA-I and UPA-II, and has now included the Finance Ministry and Niti Aayog in her reportage. She has als... Read More Pallavi Ghosh has covered politics and Parliament for 15 years, and has reported extensively on Congress, UPA-I and UPA-II, and has now included the Finance Ministry and Niti Aayog in her reportage. She has als... Read More view comments First Published: July 29, 2025, 14:02 IST News politics How Congress Move To Muzzle Shashi Tharoor, Manish Tewari May Backfire In Op Sindoor Debate Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy 'Govt Showed No Political Will, Didn't Want Escalation': Rahul Gandhi During Op Sindoor Debate Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 18:05 IST Rahul Gandhi criticized the government, claiming India lost jets in the conflict with Pakistan after Operation Sindoor due to lack of "political will" and attack restrictions. Rahul Gandhi said India attacked Pakistan, but the leadership asked our pilots not to attack their air defence system. (Photo: Sansad TV) Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, on Tuesday said that India lost jets during the military conflict with Pakistan after Operation Sindoor since the central government did not show political will." Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the Operation Sindoor debate, Rahul Gandhi said India attacked Pakistan, but the leadership asked our pilots not to attack their air defence system. Meaning you tied their hands behind their back, he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Recommended Stories The DGMO of India was told by the GOI to ask for a ceasefire at 1:35 itself. You told the Pakistanis exactly what to do. Imagine, two people are fighting and one hits the other and then says- see I hit you and now do not escalate. So you showed to Pakistan that there is no political will India showed immediate surrender in 30 minutes. He also said that he told the Pakistanis that we are not going to hit any military infrastructure," he said. India attacked Pakistan and told your pilots not to attack their air defence system. Meaning you tied their hands behind their back. This is why we lost jets. The point is that aircraft were lost because of the constraint given by the political leadership to not attack the military and air defence system of Pakistan," he added. About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 First Published: July 29, 2025, 17:37 IST News politics 'Govt Showed No Political Will, Didn't Want Escalation': Rahul Gandhi During Op Sindoor Debate Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'I Urge You To Persuade Pakistan': Indira Gandhi's Letter To Nixon After 1971 Attack Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 23:32 IST This comes amid the opposition's relentless questions on US President Donald Trump's claims of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during its military standoff Indira Gandhi after her reelection as PM in March 1971; (R) Indira Gandhi and then American President Richard Nixon at an official ceremony during her visit to the US in November 1971. (Image: AFP/Archives/File) A letter penned in 1971 by then prime minister Indira Gandhi to US President Richard Nixon has surfaced, in which she is asking him to persuade Pakistan" to give up its aggressive activities" against India two days after it attacked, triggering the Indo-Pakistan war that ended in the creation of Bangladesh. This comes amid the oppositions relentless questions on US President Donald Trumps claims of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during its military standoff following Operation Sindoor. Recommended Stories While the central government claims that no outside party was involved in any kind of ceasefire, opposition parties have repeatedly asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to call Trump out for his lies" if that was not the case. In this hour of danger the Government and the people of India seek your understanding and urge you to persuade Pakistan to desist forthwith from the policy of wanton aggression and military adventurism which it has unfortunately embarked upon," Indira Gandhi wrote in her letter to Nixon dated December 5, 1971. The letter can be found on the website of the US Department of States Office of the Historian in an archival volume titled Foreign Relations of the United States, 19691976, Volume XI, South Asia Crisis, 1971. May I request Your Excellency to exercise your undoubted influence with the Government of Pakistan to stop their aggressive activities against India and to deal immediately with the genesis of the problem of East Bengal which has caused so much trial and tribulations to the people not only of Pakistan but of the entire sub-continent," she has written. In fact, on Tuesday, during a debate on Operation Sindoor, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra even claimed that Indira had written to Nixon and countered him through successful diplomacy so as to lead to the division of Pakistan. She called her grandmother, the prime minister who imposed the draconian Emergency of 1975, a great patriot". Priyankas brother and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi later severely criticised the Centre and questioned its political will" behind Operation Sindoor, which was a retaliation against Pakistan by the Indian armed forces following the Pahalgam terror attack. He, too, repeatedly invoked his grandmother and her actions during the 1971 war, saying she provided freedom of operation" to the armed forces that aided in the creation of a new country. Before that, even Priyanka launched a full-blown attack on the government over lapses" that led to the Pahalgam attack. She took a swipe at Modi, saying leadership is not just about taking credit but also taking responsibility. Here are some excerpts from the letter: In one part of the letter towards the end, Indira talks about the freedom movement of the people of the erstwhile East Bengal". She has stated reasons why India must retaliate to Pakistans unprovoked attack" not merely for our territorial integrity but for the basic ideals which have given strength to my country and on which Indias entire future depends". I am writing to you at a moment of grave peril and danger to my country and my people. The success of the freedom movement in Bangla Desh has now become a war on India due to the adventurism of the Pakistan military machine. It has imposed upon my people and my Government the imperative responsibility of safeguarding our security and territorial integrity. We are left with no other option but to put our country on a war footing. We have therefore declared an emergency for the defence of India. The grave consequences that should follow Pakistans unprovoked attack on us all shall be the sole responsibility of the Government of Pakistan. We are a peace-loving people but we know that peace cannot last if we do not guard our democracy and our way of life. We are not fighting merely for our territorial integrity but for the basic ideals which have given strength to my country and on which Indias entire future depends. I should stress to Your Excellency that the people and the Government of India are determined that this wanton and unprovoked aggression should be decisively and finally repelled once and for all; the whole of India stands united in this resolve and expects that the international community will appreciate our predicament and acknowledge the righteousness of our cause." In another major part of the letter, she talks about incontrovertible evidence of Pakistans war-like intentions", detailing the neighbours attack on Indias western border. We have now received incontrovertible evidence of Pakistans war-like intentions. On the afternoon of 3rd December 1971, the Government of Pakistan led by President Yahya Khan ordered a massive attack on India across its western frontiers. This has been followed by a gazette extraordinary published by the Government of Pakistan on the forenoon of the 4th December 1971, declaring that it is a state of war against India." In another part, the late PM details how this is the fourth time since India and Pakistan gained independence that the neighbouring country has launched an attack. I should like to emphasize that this is the fourth time since India and Pakistan achieved independence that Pakistan has attacked India. Our bitter experiences of 1947 and 1948 and 1965 have taught us that Pakistan is determined to threaten our territorial integrity and security by all means available this time specially to divert attention from its colonial and repressive policies inside East Bengal and to internationalise the issue." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all WHAT IS THE 1971 INDO-PAKISTAN WAR? The 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, also known as the Bangladesh Liberation War, led to the creation of Bangladesh. The war began with Pakistan launching airstrikes on India on December 3, 1971 all described in Indiras letter to Nixon prompting India to declare war and retaliate with airstrikes. The conflict ended with Pakistans surrender in Dhaka on December 16, 1971. About the Author Oindrila Mukherjee Oindrila Mukherjee is a senior sub-editor who works for the rewrite and breaking news desks. Her nine years of experience in print and digital journalism range from editing and reporting to writing impactful st... Read More Oindrila Mukherjee is a senior sub-editor who works for the rewrite and breaking news desks. Her nine years of experience in print and digital journalism range from editing and reporting to writing impactful st... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 23:03 IST News politics 'I Urge You To Persuade Pakistan': Indira Gandhi's Letter To Nixon After 1971 Attack Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Lost Mental Balance': JP Nadda Takes On Mallikarjun Kharge Over PM Remarks, An Apology Follows Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 17:22 IST JP Nadda apologized to Kharge after accusing him of losing his mental balance during a Rajya Sabha debate on Operation Sindoor, causing an uproar among opposition MPs. Speaking in the Upper House in Parliament during a special debate on Operation Sindoor, Nadda accused Kharge of using controversial words for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (Photos: Sansad TV) The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday witnessed a massive uproar after Union Minister JP Nadda said that Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge has lost his mental balance." Speaking in the Upper House in Parliament during a special debate on Operation Sindoor, Nadda accused 83-year-old Kharge of using controversial words for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Recommended Stories He (RS LoP Mallikarjun Kharge) is a very senior leader but the way in which he had commented on the PMI can understand his pain. He (PM Modi) has been there since 11 years now. He happens to be the most popular leader of the world But you have so much in love with your party that you are in so much pain having losing your mental balance use those words," the Leader of House in Rajya Sabha said. However, Nadda apologised to Congress president Kharge after uproar by opposition MPs and withdrew his remark. We respect the LoP. I withdrew my words. I apologise if you are hurt. But you, too, were led astray by emotions. You went so astray that you could not be mindful of even the dignity of the PM, that is sad," he said. After Naddas remark, Kharge said, There are a few leaders in this House I have immense respect for. Nadda ji is one of them. Rajnath ji and he are ministers who speak without losing their balance. He is telling me today. This is a matter of shame. He should apologise, I am not going to leave this alone." Kharge said that while the opposition MPs attended an all-party meeting after the Pahalgam attack while PM Modi went to Bihar for a political" rally. While we attended the (all-party) meeting, you (PM Modi) were in Bihar doing a political rally. You should be here, in either of the Houses, while the discussion is underway. If you do not have the courage to listen, you do not deserve to be in that position," he said. Citing terrorist attacks in Uri, Pathankot, Pulwama and Pahalgam, the Leader of Opposition alleged that the failure of intelligence agencies and asked Home Minister Amit Shah to take the responsibility for the April 22 attack, in which 26 people were killed. Uri and Pathankot terrorist attacks in 2016, Pulwama in 2019 and now Pahalgam in 2025. All these incidents make it clear that there is a recurring Intelligence failure and failure in national securityI would like to ask the HM, who is responsible for this? What did you do to rectify the mistake?I would like to ask the HM, that who is responsible for this? Vacate your post if you are. If no, what action is the PM taking?" he asked. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On 14th July 2025, J&K LG Manoj Sinha admitted that the Pahalgam terror attack was undoubtedly a security failure"I take full responsibility for the incident which was undoubtedly a security lapse". The Home Minister should take responsibility, not the Lt Governor," he added. (with inputs from PTI, ANI) About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 First Published: July 29, 2025, 16:33 IST News politics 'Lost Mental Balance': JP Nadda Takes On Mallikarjun Kharge Over PM Remarks, An Apology Follows Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Indonesia's richest man Prajogo Pangestu is experiencing a wealth boost following steep declines that wiped out billions last year, thanks to the skyrocketing share value of his energy company. The 81-year-old billionaire has boosted his net worth by over US$20 billion since its April low, reaching $36.2 billion, as reported by the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Prajogo Pangestu, chairman of Barito Renewables Energy. Photo courtesy of the company The increase is largely due to investment research firm Morgan Stanley Capital International's decision to lift restrictions on three companies tied to Pangestu, including PT Barito Renewables Energy, the geothermal company that constitutes over a third of his wealth, Bloomberg reported. From August, Morgan Stanley will reintegrate these firms into its index assessment, having previously excluded them due to concerns over the high concentration of shares held by controlling shareholders. Following the decision, Barito Renewables' shares soared 20%, sending Pangestus fortune up by $3.5 billion, his largest single-day gain ever. "Morgan Stanley's reversal removed a major overhang," Mohit Mirpuri, senior partner at SGMC Capital, told Bloomberg, noting that trading volumes for Pangestu-linked stocks are now among the highest on Indonesia's exchange. However, Barito Renewables' rapid climb has sparked concerns. In 2024, the stock briefly appeared on the Indonesia Stock Exchange's watchlist and plummeted in September after London-based market watcher FTSE Russell announced its exclusion from indexes due to high shareholder concentration, erasing nearly $12 billion from Pangestus peak net worth of $36.5 billion. Some other companies of Pangestu are expected to benefit from upcoming expansion. His chemical producer Chandra Asri will see an injection of $800 million from Indonesia's two sovereign wealth funds to build a plant outside Jakarta, according to Forbes. The facility will produce 400,000 tons of caustic soda and 500,000 tons of ethylene dichloride per year when completed in 2027. Pangestu, the son of a rubber trader, founded Barito Pacific in 1979 as a timber business. It has since grown into petrochemicals, power, property, plantation, and forestry, with power generation now its core focus. PM Modi's Big Messages: No World Leader Asked Us To Stop Op Sindoor; Pak Remote-Controls Congress Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 22:14 IST In a nearly two-hour-long speech in Parliament, PM Modi criticised Pakistan as well as the Congress and delved into history to expose the 'blunders' of the opposition party Follow us on: Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, at the monsoon session of Parliament. (Image: PTI) No leader in the world asked India to stop Operation Sindoor, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, contradicting US President Donald Trumps repeated claims of brokering an Indo-Pak ceasefire. The PM also lashed out at the Congress, saying that it had become Pakistans spokesperson. In a nearly two-hour-long speech, PM Modi criticised Pakistan as well as the Congress and delved into history to expose the blunders of the opposition party for which, he said, India is still paying a price. Here are the five big messages from his speech: Recommended Stories Countering Trump The Congress has been trying to corner PM Modi by citing Donald Trumps claims (made 29 times) that he had brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan using trade as bait. The Prime Minister set the record straight on Tuesday. On May 9, US Vice-President JD Vance tried to speak to me 3-4 times for over an hour, but I was in a meeting. I called him backhe said Pakistan will do a very big attack. I replied to himif Pakistan has this intention, toh usse bahut mehnga padega (it will cost them dearly). I told Vance that we will do a bigger attack than Pakistanthat hum goli ka jawab gole se denge (we will respond to bullets with shells)," the Prime Minister told the Lok Sabha. Earlier, foreign minister S Jaishankar had told Parliament that President Trump and PM Modi never spoke during Operation Sindoor and how the Prime Minister stayed firm when JD Vance called him. Congress propagates Pakistans propaganda PM Modi said the Congress is dependent on Pakistan for issues. Compare Pakistan statements and those of the oppositionthey are the same with full stops and commas. They speak the same language as Pakistan. The country is shocked that Congress has given a clean chit to Pakistan. They want evidence that Pahalgam attackers are Pakistanis. This is the same demand that Pakistan is making," he told Parliament. The PM said that the Congress does not trust any government minister or the government machinery despite being in power for so long. The Congress now works on Pakistans remote control. A new Congress MP said Operation Sindoor was a tamasha. It was a sin to say so," PM Modi said. He appealed to the Congress to not support Pakistan under pressure from the Gandhi family and correct its mistake. Referring to Shashi Tharoor and Manish Tewari without naming them, he said the Congress had stopped some leaders from speaking in Parliament, though they were part of multi-party delegations on Operation Sindoor. The Prime Minister said no country stopped India from acting against terror, and at the UN, only 3 countries supported Pakistan. We got the worlds support but it is unfortunate that Congress did not support us. They asked where is 56-inch chest, said Modi fail ho gayamaza le rahe the, laga baazi maar li (they said Modi failed, they were having funthinking they won the narrative battle)," he said. The PM said Congress was doing politics even at the pain of the families of the Pahalgam victims. Their statements were lowering the morale of security forces. Congress is questioning Operation Sindoor. You cannot make space in the hearts of people like this," he said. PM Modi also delved into history to say that the Congress allowed terrorism to grow for vote-bank politics and weakened counter-terror laws. After the Parliament attack in 2001, a Congress leader had asked to give the benefit of the doubt to Pakistan. After 26/11, Congress leaders were adamant to declare it as a Hindu terror attack," he said. Operation Mahadev Success The Prime Minister also declared that Indias security forces killed the terrorists of Pahalgam on Monday. But here it was asked by the oppositionwhy did it happen yesterday only? What has happened to these people (Congress)? It is disappointment at its highest level. Earlier, they asked where are Pahalgam attackers? Now we killed them and say why yesterday," he said. Terrorists and their masters are crying, and looking at them, some people (opposition) are also crying here. Now they say why did you stop Operation Sindoor? Wah re bayan bahaduron, aapko virodh ka koi na koi bahana chahiye (you love making statements but actually you just want to oppose for the sake of it). The whole country is laughing at you." He said the Congress earlier asked for evidence of surgical strikes done in 2016 and said surgical strikes also happened in the UPA tenure. In the Balakot air strikes, they asked for pictures. Pakistan also asked the same," the PM said. When pilot Abhinandan was caught, Pakistan was happy. But here too, some people were whispering that now Modi is in a fix. We got Abhinandan back. After Pahalgam, one BSF jawan was captured. They again thought Modi would be in a fix. The BSF jawan also came back." He said the Congress has never accepted the Kargil victory and never celebrated Kargil Vijay Diwas. The world knows whom Congress took briefing from when Doklam was happening," the PM said. He said some, like the Congress, want to forward Pakistans agenda rather than believe Indias army. Lesson Taught to Pakistan PM Modi said Pakistan now knows that Indias every attack will be bigger than the previous one. India can do anything in the future if the need arises again. Operation Sindoor is still on. If Pakistan does anything, it will get a karara jawab (befitting reply). Our air defence systems neutralised 1,000 missiles and drones fired by Pakistan on May 9. Pakistan spread a lie of an attack on Adampur air base. I reached Adampur the next day to expose their lie," he said. The PM made some points very clearIndia reached where its forces had never gone before, India smashed terror headquarters all over Pakistan, the neighbours nuclear blackmail was proven a lie, and precision strikes at Pakistani airbases caused heavy damage, and they are still in ICU". He said Made in India drones and missiles exposed Pakistans arsenal. Synergy between our forces shocked Pakistan. The new situation is that terror masterminds are not able to sleep. They know Bharat will come and maar ke jayega (kill them). This is a new normal that we have set. Pakistan will have to pay a heavy price for terror," the PM said. He then spelt out the three new normals: We will reply to terror at the time and place of our choosing, no nuclear blackmail will work, and we wont differentiate between terrorists and states sponsoring them." The PM said Indias targets were terrorist masterminds and their headquarters. We did our work, achieved our targets. Hence, we told Pakistan that this was our target and we have done it. We wanted to know what they are thinking. If Pakistan were intelligent, it would not have made the mistake of standing with terrorists. It shamelessly stood with terrorists. On May 10 morning, we gave them a lesson they will never forget," he said, revealing details about Operation Sindoor. Indian missiles rained fire across Pakistan, which they had never imagined, and we forced Pakistan to come to its knees." He pointed to the Pakistani PMs statement that he was in the swimming pool when Indias attack began. Bahut mara, bas karo (You have hurt us a lot, its enough), Pakistan pleaded to us in the DGMO call. We had said agar kuch karoge toh mehnga padega (if you try something, it will cost you dearly)," the PM said, explaining why the operation was paused. Exposing Past Blunders of Congress The PM said the Congress now asks why India did not get back PoK, but first it has to answer whose government gave Pakistan the opportunity to occupy PoK. Whenever I speak of Nehru, Congress gets flustered. Lamhon ne khata ki, sadiyon ne saza payi. We are suffering to date that punishment. Aksai Chin was declared a wasteland by Nehru, and 38,000 sq feet of land was lost," he said. The PM said the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan was a big blunder by the Congress. He also said that the Congress wanted to withdraw the Army from Siachen. Just after the 26/11 attacks, the UPA had started to initiate talks with Pakistan. The Congress then gave Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan," he said. It was Nehru who started the Indus Waters Treaty, he underscored. Nehru ji and Congress decided to go to the World Bank on the issue of the Indus Waters Treaty. Nehru agreed to give 80% water to Pakistan. The Indus Waters Treaty was a big betrayal. Indus water belongs to Indians, its farmers. Nehru offered a huge amount of money to Pakistan to make canals," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The PM also said that Islamabad made Nehru give in writing that India cannot clean its canals without discussing it with Pakistan. PM Modi said the Congress never corrected Nehrus blunder on the Indus Waters Treaty, but he has done so. About the Author Aman Sharma Aman Sharma, Executive Editor - National Affairs at CNN-News18, and Bureau Chief at News18 in Delhi, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office.... Read More Aman Sharma, Executive Editor - National Affairs at CNN-News18, and Bureau Chief at News18 in Delhi, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office.... Read More view comments First Published: July 29, 2025, 21:00 IST News politics PM Modi's Big Messages: No World Leader Asked Us To Stop Op Sindoor; Pak Remote-Controls Congress Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy 'No Mention Of Trump Or China': Rahul Gandhi On PM Modi's Op Sindoor Speech Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 20:46 IST Rahul Gandhi criticized PM Modi's Lok Sabha speech, noting he didn't mention Trump or China during the Operation Sindoor debate Follow us on: The Prime Minister also accused Congress of spreading Pakistan's propaganda. (Photos: Sansad TV) Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, on Friday reacted to Prime Minister Narendra Modis speech in Lok Sabha during the Operation Sindoor debate and said he did not mention US President Donald Trump or China. He never said it clearly that Trump was lying In his entire speech, not once did he mention China. The whole nation knows that China helped Pakistan in every way, but the Prime Minister and Defence Minister never named China anywhere in their speeches," Gandhi said while speaking to reporters outside Parliament in New Delhi. Recommended Stories In his speech, PM Modi said no world leader had asked India to stop the conflict with Pakistan. However, the PM did not name Trump, who has been repeatedly claiming to have stopped multiple conflicts, including India-Pakistan. No leader in the world asked India to stop its operation. On the night of the 9th (May 2025), during that time, the Vice President of the United States tried to get in touch with me. He kept trying for almost an hour, but I was in a meeting with our armed forces and couldnt take his call. Later, I called him back.He informed me that Pakistan was planning a major attack. Thats what he told me directly. My response (though some may not understand it) was clear: if Pakistan intends to carry out such an attack, it will have to pay a very heavy price. Thats exactly what I told the U.S. Vice President," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Prime Minister also accused Congress of spreading Pakistans propaganda. On May 10, India decided to stop Operation Sindoor. Some people questioned the Indian forces and the operation itself. This propaganda was spread by Pakistan, and these individuals supported it by spreading falsehoods within India," he added. Ab Congress ka bharosa Pakistan ke remote control se banta hai. Those who have some stature in Congress lack courage, and hence, they use newer leaders to speak absurd things. One leader of Congress called Operation Sindoor a tamasha in the House," he added. About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 view comments First Published: July 29, 2025, 20:45 IST News politics 'No Mention Of Trump Or China': Rahul Gandhi On PM Modi's Op Sindoor Speech Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy PM Modi Takes Dig At Congress Over Tharoor's 'Maunvrat' In Lok Sabha, Kerala MP Smiles | Watch Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 20:29 IST PM Modi criticized Congress for not allowing MPs Tharoor and Tewari to speak during the Operation Sindoor debate Tharoor has been vocal about his support for the Modi government on Operation Sindoor. (Photos: Sansad TV) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday took a dig at Congress for not letting their MPs Shashi Tharoor and Manish Tewari speak in the Lok Sabha during the debate on Operation Sindoor. Speaking in the lower house of Parliament, PM Modi said: Even if our hearts dont align in party interests, they must align in the nations interest. The country now has a Sindoor spirit", which we saw when our representatives went to tell the world about Indias side. I congratulate each one of them. Although the big leaders of Congress are unhappy with this as well. Some have even been stopped from speaking in the House." Recommended Stories #WATCH | Operation Sindoor | PM says, What is sad and surprising is that those who consider themselves tall leaders of Congress are rattled by the fact that why Indias perspective was presented before the world. Perhaps a few leaders have been prohibited from speaking in the pic.twitter.com/0KrDf7vAHc ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 When asked for a comment after PM Modis address in the Lok Sabha, Tharoor said, Talk to somebody who is willing to talk. There are lots of people who are enthusiastic to talk to the press. I am not." Tharoor, a three-time MP from Keralas Thiruvanthapuram, has been vocal about his support for the Modi government on Operation Sindoor. He led a delegation of MPs to different countries, explaining Indias stance on terrorism and Operation Sindoor. However, this did not go well with Congress leadership, and he did not figure in the list of Congress speakers for debate in the Lok Sabha. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all PM Modi then went on a send a message with poetic lines. Dal hit mein humare mann mile na mile, desh hit mein humare mann milne chahiye. Karo charcha aur itni karo, ki dushaman dehsat se dehal uthe, rahe dhyan bas itna hi maan sindoor aur sena ka prashno mein bhi atal rahe. Humla maa bharti pe hua agar toh prachand prahaar karna hoga, dushman jaha bhi baitha ho hume bharat ke liye hi jeena hoga. (We may not see eye to eye when it comes to party interests, but for the good of the nation, our hearts must come together. Engage in debate- debate with such intensity that it shakes the enemy. But keep one thing sacred: amid all questions, let your respect for the soldiers sacrifice and a mothers sindoor remain unwavering. Should Mother India come under attack, we must strike with unrelenting force. No matter where the enemy lurks, our lives must be devoted to the service of Bharat," he said. About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 First Published: July 29, 2025, 20:08 IST News politics PM Modi Takes Dig At Congress Over Tharoor's 'Maunvrat' In Lok Sabha, Kerala MP Smiles | Watch Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'You Can't Control A Tiger If You Want Work Done': What Rahul Gandhi Said In Lok Sabha | Top Quotes Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 30, 2025, 00:06 IST Invoking the 1971 war, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said there was such "political will" at that time that it led to the creation of a new country Bangladesh in this altogether Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi reacts amid PM Narendra Modi's speech at the monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi on July 29. (Image: Sansad TV/PTI) Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday stressed on two issues during the Operation Sindoor debate in Lok Sabha political will and freedom of operation" both of which he said were lacking in the central governments actions against Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack. Invoking late prime minister Indira Gandhis actions during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war, Gandhi said he wants to remind Defence Minister Rajnath Singh that there was such political will" at that time that it led to the creation of a new country Bangladesh in this case altogether. Recommended Stories A tiger has to be given freedom. You cannot control a tiger if you need your work done. There are two words political will and freedom of operation. So if you want to use Indian armed forces, the first thing you will need is 100 percent political will and then you will need full freedom of operation as well," Gandhi said during the ongoing monsoon session in Parliament. He sharply criticised the Centres military response to the Pahalgam attack, raising questions about Singhs statements on the floor of the House. Rajnath Singh said Operation Sindoor began at 1.05 am and that by 1.35 am, India had already called Pakistan to inform them that we had hit non-military targets and that we did not want escalation," he said. These are not my words. These are the words of Indias defence minister." Gandhi further accused the government of undermining the morale and effectiveness of the armed forces by imposing limitations. If you want to use the Indian armed forces, you must have 100 per cent political will. You must give them full freedom of operation," he said. WHAT RAHUL GANDHI SAID On Rajnath Singhs Statements On Op Sindoor There are two words Political Will and Freedom of Operation. If you want to utilise Indian Armed Forces, you need to have 100% political will and full freedom of operation. Yesterday, Rajnath Singh compared 1971 and Sindoor. I would like to remind him that there was political will in 1971. Seventh Fleet was approaching India through the Indian Ocean. The then PM said we will have to do whatever we have to Bangladesh, come wherever you have toIndira Gandhi told General Manekshaw take 6 months, 1 year, whatever time you need because you should have freedom of action, of manoeuvre. 1 lakh Pakistani soldiers surrendered and a new country as formed." You told the Pakistanis exactly what to do. Imagine, two people are fighting and one hits the other and then says see I hit you and now do not escalate. So you showed to Pakistan that there is no political will. India showed immediate surrender in 30 minutes. He (Rajnath Singh) also said he told the Pakistanis that we are not going to hit any military infrastructure." I want to tell CDS General Chauhan, you made no mistake. It was the political leadership that tied the militarys hands." On Trump and His Ceasefire Claims Trump has said 29 times that he brought forth the ceasefire. Fine, why does the PM not have the courage like that of Indira Gandhi to say Trump is a liar. Say that you did not make a ceasefireeven if he has 50 percent of Indira Gandhi, he will say it." On New Normal There is a new term: new normal. EAM (S Jaishankar) is not here but he uses the term. He has said several times that all countries have condemned terrorism. That is 100 percent correct but he did not say that after Pahalgam no country condemned Pakistan. Not a single country did that. This means that the world is equating us with Pakistan. At the time of UPA, this did not happen." On Asim Munir-Donald Trump Lunch The man behind Pahalgam is Munir who is having lunch with Trump. He is sitting there and our PM is not going there. PM has not said anything: should say how dare Munir was invited to the White House. Trump said he wanted to thank Munir. Which planet is the foreign minister sitting on?" The Foreign Minister says weve deterred Pakistan but Pakistans Army Chief is having lunch with Trumpwhat will you do when the next attack happens? Attack Pakistan again? Now they know all you have to do is attack and then we will respond. This government is clueless about what deterrence means." On Pakistan-China Collaboration, Foreign Policy Challenge Indias biggest foreign policy challenge was keeping China and Pakistan apart. Id warned them about it but this government brought them together." Let me tell you what that means. The Government of India thought they were fighting Pakistan, but they realised they were fighting China." How did this integration between China and Pakistan take place? There was this centre built in Pakistan with Chinese help, which was aimed at integrating the Pakistani Air Force with the Chinese." On Opposition Unity top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Even before Operation Sindoor began, the opposition committed itself that we will stand like a rock with the forces and with the elected government of India. We heard the odd jibe and sarcastic remarks from their leaders but we said absolutely nothing. This was agreed upon by all leaders of the INDIA bloc. We are proud that we stood united as we should have." A brutal attack, heartless attack organised and orchestrated clearly by the Pakistani State. Young people, old people were murdered in cold blood, mercilessly. We have, together every single person in this House, condemned Pakistan." About the Author Oindrila Mukherjee Oindrila Mukherjee is a senior sub-editor who works for the rewrite and breaking news desks. Her nine years of experience in print and digital journalism range from editing and reporting to writing impactful st... Read More Oindrila Mukherjee is a senior sub-editor who works for the rewrite and breaking news desks. Her nine years of experience in print and digital journalism range from editing and reporting to writing impactful st... Read More First Published: July 30, 2025, 00:06 IST News politics 'You Can't Control A Tiger If You Want Work Done': What Rahul Gandhi Said In Lok Sabha | Top Quotes Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Mumbai Has India's Busiest Railway Station, But This City Brings The Most Revenue Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 08:55 IST Despite handling fewer trains, New Delhi Railway Station earns more than Mumbai, emerging as a major money-spinner for Indian Railways with just 20% of its traffic While Mumbai handles the highest number of trains, New Delhi Station generates the most revenue. (News18 Hindi) The Indian Railways, one of the worlds largest rail networks, operates over 12,000 trains daily, connecting cities both large and small. While Mumbai handles the highest number of trains, it is New Delhi railway station that brings in the most revenue. When it comes to the number of trains, Mumbai, often dubbed the economic capital of India, tops the chart. Around 3,500 trains operate from the city daily, including a vast fleet of local trains that are rightly called the lifeline of Mumbai. The volume is so high that at times, trains run back-to-back with barely any gap. Recommended Stories Despite this massive traffic, Mumbai does not lead in terms of revenue generation. Surprisingly, a city that runs only about 20% of Mumbais train volume is outperforming it as a major money-spinner for Indian Railways. Delhi Tops The Revenue Chart While Indian Railways continues to expand, now spanning over 70,000 kilometres and operating more than 12,000 trains daily, Mumbai remains the hub with the highest train traffic. It runs nearly seven times more trains than Delhi, including premium services like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, mail express, and an extensive network of suburban locals. Yet, when it comes to revenue, New Delhi Railway Station has emerged as the top earner. In the past year alone, it generated a staggering Rs 3,337 crore, averaging close to Rs 10 crore in daily income. This makes it the golden station of Indian Railways. New Delhi stations income isnt just from train tickets. A significant portion also comes from commercial sources such as shop rentals, advertisements, cloakrooms, and waiting hall services. While it may not handle as many local trains, it services a high number of long-distance and premium trains connecting nearly every major city in the country. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Second And Third Place Mumbai does not even make the top three in revenue rankings. Howrah Railway Station in West Bengal secures the second spot with an annual income of Rs 1,692 crore, while Chennai Central stands third, earning around Rs 1,299 crore annually. Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google, News18's viral page features trending stories, videos , and memes, covering quirky incidents, social media buzz from india and around the world, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! Location : New Delhi | Mumbai, India First Published: July 29, 2025, 08:55 IST News viral Mumbai Has India's Busiest Railway Station, But This City Brings The Most Revenue Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Parivaar, Paisa Aur Papa: Siblings In Multicrore Property War Discover Theyre Both Adopted Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 22:19 IST In China, siblings found out they were both adopted while disputing their father's Rs 3.6 crore property. The court granted equal inheritance rights, leading to a settlement. News18 A man and his sister in China were fighting over their fathers property, but the inheritance dispute took a dramatic turn when they discovered that neither of them was the biological child of their deceased parents. Sun, who hailed from the city of Tianjin in northern China, had transferred ownership of a property worth Rs 3.6 crore (three million yuan) solely to his son before his death in March 2025. However, Sun had also expressed a wish for his son to provide reasonable compensation" to his adopted daughter. Recommended Stories The daughter, who was adopted in 1966, challenged the inheritance at the Nankai District Peoples Court in Tianjin, claiming that the contract bore only her fathers signature. She argued that her mothers share should still be considered part of the estate. Since the contract was signed only by him, my mothers share should be treated as part of the inheritance. This house was given to me by my parents; no one is taking it from me," she said, as reported by the South China Morning Post. While the court proceedings were underway, the woman presented evidence that her brothers household registration documents were marked adopted". This shocking detail revealed that her brother was not a biological child either. However, the brother refused to share the property. He claimed that his sister had cut off ties with the family following a dispute in the 1990s, and that he had cared for their parents until their deaths. The judge noted that being adopted does not disqualify a child from inheriting property. The court ruled that both the brother and sister had equal rights to the inheritance. After hours of mediation, the two reached a settlement. The sister agreed to accept Rs 66 lakh (550,000 yuan) in compensation from her brother, who retained full ownership of the property. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In China, customary inheritance practices have long favoured sons, particularly regarding land and property. Although legal reforms have promoted gender equality, deeply rooted cultural traditions still influence inheritance practices, often resulting in women receiving smaller shares than men. About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google, News18's viral page features trending stories, videos , and memes, covering quirky incidents, social media buzz from india and around the world, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! First Published: July 29, 2025, 22:19 IST News viral Parivaar, Paisa Aur Papa: Siblings In Multicrore Property War Discover Theyre Both Adopted Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... The Land Of The Naga: Why Coastal Karnataka Still Worships The Serpent Curated By : Local18 Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 10:48 IST Nagara Panchami is not just a festival here. It is a promise kept and renewed every year, the word Lord Parushurama gave to Yakshas, which the people continue to follow. Gods in the Backyard: The Naga Worship That Defines Coastal Karnataka Across Karnataka, Nagara Panchami is celebrated with devotion but nowhere is it felt quite like it is in Coastal Karnataka, where the serpent isnt just a symbol, but a visible God. Here, worshipping the Naga isnt occasional. Its ancestral, intimate, and woven into the lands mystery and identity. A Festival Rooted in Land and Legacy Recommended Stories For the people of Coastal Karnataka, Nagara Panchami is more than a religious event. Its an annual reaffirmation of their bond with nature and divine beings who reside within it. Families gather around the Naganakatte, a stone platform dedicated to the serpent deity in most homes. They perform sacred rituals: offering milk, tender coconut water, and prayers to the idols, many worn smooth by generations of devotion. The Belief Behind the Worship According to local legend, Parashurama, the warrior-sage, created the region by casting his axe into the ocean. But this newly formed land wasnt empty. Yakshas, subterranean spirits, pleaded with him for a place to live. Parashurama granted their wish and declared they would be worshipped forever in this land. Over time, the Naga, seen as a manifestation of these Yakshas, became central to local faith. A Living Faith That Outlives Time top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all From Kukke Subramanya Temple to the smallest village shrine, Naga worship is everywhere. Its not limited to the festival day either. In Tulunaadu (land where Tulu is the spoken language), its a year-round faith. But on Nagara Panchami, the devotion deepens, and families come together to honour the promise made centuries ago. Its a tradition that hasnt faded with time. Its only grown stronger, more personal, and deeply rooted in the coastal soil. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google, News18's viral page features trending stories, videos , and memes, covering quirky incidents, social media buzz from india and around the world, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! First Published: July 29, 2025, 10:48 IST News viral The Land Of The Naga: Why Coastal Karnataka Still Worships The Serpent Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Chinese Whispers: Is Taiwan Trump's New Bargaining Chip With Beijing? Reported By : CNN-News18 Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 18:39 IST Donald Trump prioritises America First, and Taiwan's independence is no longer a priority Trump's transactional diplomacy prioritises the sensitive US-China trade talks, raising critical questions for Taiwan's future. File pic/AP Is the United States distancing itself from Taiwan? This at a time when, in Taipei, civilians are rehearsing responses to potential attacks from China in city streets. This raises questions: will Washington step in to defend Taipei if a Chinese invasion becomes imminent? Is the US President using Taiwan as a negotiating tool with China? These are likely concerns for Taiwanese President William Lai Ching-te. Recently, Lai cancelled his trip to Paraguay, Guatemala, and BelizeTaiwans three allies in the Americas. The reason? Donald Trump. Recommended Stories Why, you might ask? Lais trip, planned for early August, included a stopover in the United States, which was blocked by Trumps administration. Trump is currently seeking a summit with Chinas President Xi Jinping. The Financial Times reported that China raised objections with Washington about Lais visit, leading to the US denying him permission to stop in New York. Interestingly, Lais office never formally announced his trip to Latin America. On Monday, Taiwan confirmed that Lais overseas travel was cancelled to focus on tariff negotiations with the US and to manage a cleanup operation following a typhoon in southern Taiwan. In response, the social media-savvy US President quickly lashed out on Truth Social, stating, The fake news is reporting that I am seeking a summit with President Xi of China. This is not correct, I am not seeking anything!" Trump also hinted at a possible meeting with Xi, saying, I may go to China, but it would only be at the invitation of President Xi, which has been extended. Otherwise, no interest! Thank you for your attention to this matter." Trumps social media rant coincides with a meeting between top US and Chinese economic officials in Stockholm, aiming to resolve longstanding economic disputes at the heart of a trade war between the worlds two largest economies. The US and China are considering extending a tariff truce by three months, with China seeking reductions in US tariffs and tech export controls. Analysts believe a Trump-Xi meeting could ease trade tensions at this critical juncture. It is important to note that the president of Taiwan cannot officially visit the US, as the United States does not recognise Taiwans government. However, Taiwanese leaders have historically used transit stops" in the US to meet top US administration officials outside Washington DC. As recently as 2023, then-Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen visited New York and Los Angeles during a transit stop. At that time, Joe Biden was the US president, committed to defending Taiwan militarily against any attack from the Peoples Republic of China. Biden approved over $500 million in defence support to Taiwan before leaving office. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Donald Trump, however, prioritises America First, and Taiwans independence is no longer a prioritya stark contrast to his previous term, when he reinstated a posture of strong deterrence in the Taiwan Strait with increased arms sales to Taiwan. During his first term, US trade policy towards China helped Taiwanese companies diversify across Asia. Diplomatically, Trump signed the Taiwan Travel Act in March 2018, ending several restrictions on official exchanges since the 1979 diplomatic breakup. But now, Trumps transactional diplomacy prioritises the sensitive US-China trade talks, raising critical questions for Taiwans future. How much pressure will be placed on Taiwan to increase its military spending? Can Taiwan continue to benefit from the trade and technology disputes between the US and China? And what is the future of Taipei without Trumps support? First Published: July 29, 2025, 18:39 IST News world Chinese Whispers: Is Taiwan Trump's New Bargaining Chip With Beijing? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Despite Visa-Free Entry, Malaysia Denies 10 Indians Over Suspicious Travel Records Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 14:20 IST The Indian travellers were among 99 foreign arrivals who were refused entry on Friday after failing to meet immigration requirements Travelers arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia. (AP file photo) Malaysia denied entry to 10 Indian nationals at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) recently, despite offering visa-free access to Indian passport holders. The Indian travellers were among 99 foreign arrivals who were refused entry on Friday after failing to meet immigration requirements. According to the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), a special seven-hour operation was carried out to screen over 400 passengers arriving on high-risk flights. Recommended Stories Among the 99 foreign nationals denied entry at the airport, there were also 80 Bangladeshis and nine Pakistanis. The reason for denial was that these individuals did not satisfy immigration checks, including having suspicious reasons for their visit and questionable travel records. All those refused entry were men, Malay Mail reported. Those denied entry were all men, 80 Bangladeshi, 10 Indians and nine Pakistani. They were denied as they failed to meet immigration checks, including having suspicious reasons for visiting and travel records," a statement by the AKPS said. The agency further explained that detailed background screenings, travel document verification, and individual interviews were conducted during the operation. Those denied entry were subjected to further documentation processes before being deported back to their countries of origin, following standard legal procedures. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all They underwent further documentation processes before being deported to their countries of origin according to existing legal procedures," it said. AKPS emphasised that such enforcement actions would be carried out periodically as a proactive measure to combat human trafficking and misuse of social visit passes. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More Location : Malaysia First Published: July 29, 2025, 13:54 IST News world Despite Visa-Free Entry, Malaysia Denies 10 Indians Over Suspicious Travel Records Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Disarm, Leave Gaza To Achieve Palestinian Statehood': Qatar, Saudi, Egypt To Hamas Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 30, 2025, 00:02 IST Arab nations including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt urge Hamas to disarm and give up control of Gaza, backing a political solution. Arab states and EU back UN call for Hamas to disarm, cede Gaza to Palestinian Authority. (IMAGE: REUTERS) Arab nations including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Egypt have joined international calls for Hamas to disarm and relinquish control of Gaza, backing a political solution aimed at ending the ongoing war in the territory, AFP reported. A total of 17 countries, along with the European Union and the Arab League, endorsed a joint declaration at a United Nations conference focused on reviving the two-state solution. The seven-page document called for Hamas to step aside and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority, under international supervision and support. Recommended Stories In the context of ending the war in Gaza, Hamas must end its rule in Gaza and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority, with international engagement and support, in line with the objective of a sovereign and independent Palestinian State," the statement said, according to AFP. The text also condemned the deadly Hamas attacks against Israel of October 7, 2023, which launched the war. France, which co-chaired the conference with Saudi Arabia, called the declaration both historic and unprecedented." For the first time, Arab countries and those in the Middle East condemn Hamas, condemn October 7, call for the disarmament of Hamas, call for its exclusion from Palestinian governance, and clearly express their intention to normalize relations with Israel in the future," said French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. The text, co-signed by France, Britain and Canada among other western nations, also called for the possible deployment of foreign forces to stabilize Gaza after the end of hostilities. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Israel and its ally the United States did not take part in the meeting. (with inputs from agencies) About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Location : United Nations, United States First Published: July 30, 2025, 00:02 IST News world 'Disarm, Leave Gaza To Achieve Palestinian Statehood': Qatar, Saudi, Egypt To Hamas Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order to support the American Artificial Intelligence industry by promoting the export of full-stack American AI technology packages to allies and partners worldwide. These packages include hardware, data systems, AI models, cybersecurity measures, applications for sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, transportation, and more. President Trump recognizes that AI is a foundational technology that will shape the future of innovation, defense, and prosperity for decades to come. Therefore, the United States must lead in developing and deploying AI technologies, standards, and governance models to reduce global reliance on systems from adversarial nations. To do this America needs new data centers, new semiconductor and chip manufacturing facilities, new power plants and transmission lines. And under my leadership, vowed President Trump at the executive order signing, were going to get that job done. President Trump acknowledged that winning the AI race will be a test of our capacities unlike anything since the dawn of the space age. It will challenge us to marshal all of our strength and flex the muscles of American ingenuity and resolve like probably never before. It will require us to blast through obsolete systems, cut through thickets of regulation. . . .and rebuild the bedrock of our country. President Trump urged U.S. technology companies to put America first. As we push even further into this exciting frontier, let us never forget that all of this prosperity and progress has come from the culture of freedom and hard work, merit, ambition, and risk taking passed down from one generation of Americans to the next. Silicon Valley rose to wealth, fame, and glory by exemplifying these values, and it will win this race not by rejecting them, but by embracing them like they have never been embraced before. A key strategy for realizing AI dominance is to get the entire world running on the backbone of American technology, said President Trump. Under my administration, we will maintain necessary protections for our national security, but we will never forget that the greatest threat of all is to forfeit the race and force our partners into rival technology. Were not going to do that. America is the country that started the AI race, said President Trump. And as president of the United States, Im here today to declare that America is going to win it. Were going to work hard. Were going to win it. Because we will not allow any foreign nation to beat us. Maldives Bets On PM Modi's Visit, Katrina Kaif's Brand Face For Record Indian Tourist Influx Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: News Desk Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 11:35 IST Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Maldives on historic two-day trip and met President Mohamed Muizzu. Maldives Tourism Minister hails PM Modi's visit as historic (PTI Image) Maldivian Tourism Minister Thouriq Ibrahim has hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent visit to the Maldives as historic and called it a significant step in bilateral and people-to-people ties between the two nations. Speaking exclusively to CNN-News18, Ibrahim highlighted that this was the first state visit by a foreign leader under President Mohamed Muizzus administration. Recommended Stories We are friendly countries, and this visit is important for both India and Maldives," he said. Talking about tourism, the Minister said that India currently ranks sixth among the top source markets for Maldives. Last year we had around 130,000 Indian tourists. This year, we hope to welcome 200,000 tourists from India," he said, highlighting that he welcomed the one millionth tourist who was an Indian, which he described as a proud and happy moment. Aiming the further boost tourist arrivals, the Maldives is focusing on greater outreach in India, including enhanced air connectivity from Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Lucknow. The government of the country is also working on providing more facilities tailored to Indian tourists, he said. He also highlighted the growing role of Bollywood in promoting Maldivian tourism and noted that actor Katrina Kaif has been appointed as the official brand ambassador. Katrina Kaif is now chosen as a brand ambassador, and she will be starting her work very soon, next month. She will be doing her outreach work within most of the bigger cities in India, and you will see that, which will also bring in more tourists and open up the Maldives to the Indian market. But apart from that, she holds a strong influence across many people in India, and so that will definitely amplify the promotion," he said. We are very excited to have Bollywood engaged in our tourism," Ibrahim said, pointing out that celebrity visits, television events, and commercial collaborations have significantly contributed to tourism growth. Ibrahim outlined the existing infrastructure supporting the Maldives tourism sector, including 175 resorts, 875 guest houses, and 16 tourist hotels, amounting to 64,400 beds. He said that 150 new resorts are being added, and the Banana International Airport, with an annual capacity of 7.5 million passengers, was inaugurated to accommodate the growing demand of tourists. He also mentioned the Hanimaadhoo International Airport, the first international airport in northern Maldives, which is expected to be functional next year. That area is close to India and has been given priority for development with concessions offered to investors. We hope Indian investors will come forward to develop resorts there," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Regarding global outreach, China remains the top tourist market for Maldives, followed by Russia, the UK, Italy, Germany, and India. The government has set a target of 2.3 million tourist arrivals this year. With multiple international airports, a seaplane network, and investments in infrastructure and promotion, Maldives is banking on deeper India ties and celebrity-driven campaigns to further boost its tourism economy, he said. About the Author Siddhant Mishra Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ... Read More Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ... Read More Location : Male, Maldives First Published: July 29, 2025, 11:33 IST News world Maldives Bets On PM Modi's Visit, Katrina Kaif's Brand Face For Record Indian Tourist Influx Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Twin Meteor Showers To Light Up Skies On July 2930: All You Need To Know Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 08:10 IST The Southern Delta Aquariids and Alpha Capricornids will peak together, with astronomers predicting at least 25 meteors per hour. Both meteor showers will reach their peak in the early morning of July 30, 2025. (Representative Image) As July 2025 draws to a close, sky watchers can look forward to a spectacular display featuring not one, but two meteor showers peaking simultaneously. On the night of July 29, 2025, extending into the early hours of July 30, 2025, the Southern Delta Aquariids and the Alpha Capricornids are expected to produce dozens of stunning meteors per hour. Recommended Stories With the moon only 27 percent full, the meteors will be easily visible. This event will be observable worldwide, and the moonless night will ensure dark skies, increasing the likelihood of spotting bright shooting stars. The Southern Delta Aquariids and Alpha Capricornids will peak together, with astronomers predicting at least 25 meteors per hour. What Causes These Twin Meteor Showers? Meteor showers are typically caused by debris from comets or asteroids entering Earths atmosphere. NASA explains that the Southern Delta Aquariids are produced by the comet 96P/Machholz, which passes the sun every five years. Comet 169P/NEAT, discovered in 2002, is responsible for the Alpha Capricornids meteor shower and orbits the Sun approximately every 4.2 years. Both meteor showers will reach their peak in the early morning of July 30, 2025, but will continue to be active until August 12, 2025. When and where to watch Though both hemispheres will get a glimpse, theview will be more clearer down South. The constellations Aquarius and Capricornus rise higher there. Early morning before sunrise offers the best views. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all City lights can spoil the show, better to go rural. Youll have to find a dark and open spot and look southward. You wont need binoculars, just patience and clear skies. Theres a full week of activity around the peak night. The Southern Delta Aquariids remain strong until 31 July. So even if clouds roll in, all is not lost. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 29, 2025, 08:10 IST News world Twin Meteor Showers To Light Up Skies On July 2930: All You Need To Know Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Will Give Response At Right Time: Pakistan On Lok Sabha Op Sindoor Debate | Exclusive Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Shobhit Gupta Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 21:16 IST Pakistan is monitoring India's Lok Sabha debate on the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor. PM Modi criticised Pakistan and Congress. The Parliament began the three-day debate on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor from Monday. (Photo: Sansad TV) Operation Sindoor debate: Pakistan External Affairs Ministry has said that Islamabad is monitoring the proceedings of the Lok Sabha where a two-day special session has been conducted to discuss the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. In a statement, Pakistans Foreign Ministry spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said that the proceedings are being monitored and a response would be given at appropriate time. Recommended Stories We are monitoring the proceedings of the Lok Sabha. Pakistan will give its response at the appropriate time," Shafqat Ali Khan said. Operation Sindoor Debate In Parliament The Parliament began the three-day debate on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor from Monday. The BJP and its allies hailed the Modi government for the decisive action and befitting reply given to Pakistans terror-sponsoring forces, and criticised the opposition for raising doubts on the capabilities of the Indian armed forces. In a nearly two-hour-long speech, PM Modi criticised Pakistan as well as the Congress and delved into history to expose the blunders of the opposition party for which, he said, India is still paying a price. Hitting out at the Congress for its claims of pausing Operation Sindoor under pressure, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said before asking why Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has not been taken back yet, the party must respond as to who let it go in the first place. He said that while the nation got support from the entire world, the Congress and its allies could not stand behind the valour of the nations soldiers. He also asserted that no leader of any country asked India to end the military action after the Pahalgam terror strike. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Prime Minister said no country stopped India from acting against terror, and at the UN, only 3 countries supported Pakistan. We got the worlds support but it is unfortunate that Congress did not support us. They asked where is 56-inch chest, said Modi fail ho gayamaza le rahe the, laga baazi maar li (they said Modi failed, they were having funthinking they won the narrative battle)," he said. On the other hand, the opposition parties came down heavily on the central government over alleged security lapses and US President Donald Trumps claim of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. They also questioned why security agencies are not able to nab the terrorists behind the Pahalgam attack. About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Location : Islamabad, Pakistan First Published: July 29, 2025, 21:16 IST News world Will Give Response At Right Time: Pakistan On Lok Sabha Op Sindoor Debate | Exclusive Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Work On America, Gramps: Putins Ally To Senator Graham On Trump's Ukraine Truce Deadline Curated By : Last Updated: July 29, 2025, 19:54 IST The fiery digital exchange came just hours after President Trump publicly reiterated his push for a ceasefire agreement. President Trump shortened the original 50-day deadline he had given Russia, announcing a revised ultimatum | AP Image US Senator Lindsey Graham engaged in a sharp exchange with Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russias Security Council, on Monday, July 28. The heated interaction took place on X (formerly Twitter), following a stern ultimatum issued by US President Donald Trump, who warned Russian President Vladimir Putin to either strike a peace deal with Ukraine or face additional sanctions from Washington. Medvedev responded critically to Trumps ultimatum in a post, suggesting that the American president should stop playing what he called an ultimatum game." He warned that Trump must understand Russia is neither Israel nor Iran, an apparent reference to Trumps recent intervention in the Middle East, which led to a temporary ceasefire between those two nations. Medvedev cautioned, Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war, not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country." Recommended Stories Senator Graham quickly countered the statement, issuing a firm warning of his own. To those in Russia who believe that President Trump is not serious about ending the bloodbath between Russia and Ukraine, you and your customers will soon be sadly mistaken," he wrote. He also brought attention to the political shift in the US leadership, adding, You will also soon see that Joe Biden is no longer president. Get to the peace table." To those in Russia who believe that President Trump is not serious about ending the bloodbath between Russia and Ukraine:You and your customers will soon be sadly mistaken. You will also soon see that Joe Biden is no longer president. Get to the peace table. https://t.co/IRWk9I0Ljf Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) July 28, 2025 Medvedev was dismissive in his reply to the senator, stating, Its not for you or Trump to dictate when to get at the peace table. Negotiations will end when all the objectives of our military operation have been achieved." Taking a personal jab at Graham, he concluded with, Work on America first, gramps!" Its not for you or Trump to dictate when to get at the peace table. Negotiations will end when all the objectives of our military operation have been achieved. Work on America first, gramps! Dmitry Medvedev (@MedvedevRussiaE) July 28, 2025 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The fiery digital exchange came just hours after President Trump publicly reiterated his push for a ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine. Since returning to the presidency for a second term, Trump has emphasised on resolving the prolonged conflict between the neighbouring countries, which has continued through drone attacks and escalating military strikes. During a recent visit to Scotland, President Trump shortened the original 50-day deadline he had given Russia, announcing a revised ultimatum. He warned that if Moscow fails to reach a peace agreement with Ukraine within the next 10 to 12 days, it could face an intensified round of sanctions from the White House. Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: July 29, 2025, 19:54 IST News world Work On America, Gramps: Putins Ally To Senator Graham On Trump's Ukraine Truce Deadline Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Jul 30, 2025 03:00 IST Yemens Houthi rebels have released a video confirming they are holding 11 mariners hostage from a ship attacked in the Red Sea on July 7, according to a report in The New York Times. The video provides the first official confirmation of the number of captives taken from the Greek-owned MV Tutor, which was struck and later sank. This incident is part of a broader Houthi campaign against international shipping, which they state is in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The use of hostages complicates diplomatic efforts and exacerbates maritime security risks, forcing many shipping companies to continue re-routing vessels around Africa, leading to increased costs and supply chain delays. The tactic is a repeat of a November 2023 incident where the 25-member crew of the Galaxy Leader was seized; they remain in captivity. * The 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) brought together representatives from around the world to explore avenues for the inclusive growth of artificial intelligence (AI). * Numerous outstanding cases demonstrated how Chinese enterprises, from leading AI model developers to industrial innovators, are leveraging AI technologies to share the benefits of AI development with more countries. * Building on its vision for inclusive AI development, China is actively promoting initiatives and alliances designed to consolidate, standardize, and promote global artificial intelligence cooperation. SHANGHAI, July 28 (Xinhua) -- The 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC), held from July 26 to 28 in Shanghai, brought together representatives from around the world to explore avenues for the inclusive growth of artificial intelligence (AI). China's approach offered insights into how AI can deliver shared benefits and help bridge the global intelligence divide. Under the theme "Global Solidarity in the AI Era," the 2025 WAIC attracted over 1,500 guests from more than 30 countries and regions for in-depth exchanges and high-level forums. Featuring a record-breaking 70,000-square-meter exhibition, the 2025 WAIC unveiled over 3,000 AI innovations, including over 100 global and China-first debuts, showcasing a dynamic vision for global AI cooperation. During the opening ceremony, several key initiatives and outcomes were announced, including an action plan for global AI governance, the International Open Source AI Cooperation Initiative, and the "AI from ChinaBenefits the World (2025)" case collection. MOBILIZING GLOBAL WISDOM At the main forum of the high-level meeting on global AI governance, global leaders reflected on the profound challenge of ensuring AI develops as a force for good rather than harm. Geoffrey Hinton, 2024 Nobel Laureate in Physics, underscored that one of humanity's greatest challenges is ensuring that intelligent AI systems are not only vastly capable but also continue to be aligned with human interests. Hinton likened the development of such systems to raising a tiger cub, highlighting the importance of guiding AI behavior before it grows beyond our control. He stressed that no single nation can tackle the risks of advanced AI alone, and that building AI that is both powerful and subservient will require sustained global cooperation. Echoing this view, a dialogue between former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and former Microsoft Executive Vice President Harry Shum explored how competition and cooperation must coexist in the AI era. Schmidt underlined the need for transnational cooperation to set rules for global competition and collaboration in AI. This exchange embodies WAIC's broader mission to advance AI development that is inclusive, responsible, and beneficial for all humanity. With vast data resources, diverse application scenarios, and surging market demand driven by accelerating digital transformation, China offers fertile ground for AI model training, iteration, and deployment, laying a strong foundation for global cooperation and scalable innovation, according to Gary Gu, technology consulting managing partner of EY Greater China. On July 26, an action plan for global AI governance was released. The plan outlines concrete steps to foster open collaboration and inclusive innovation, encouraging bold experimentation, building international platforms for scientific and technological cooperation, and cultivating a pro-innovation policy environment. It also calls for strengthened alignment in policy and regulation, and lower technical barriers to promote breakthroughs in AI technology innovation and widespread AI applications. Particular emphasis is placed on supporting countries in the Global South to develop AI technologies and services in line with their local needs, helping them genuinely access and apply AI. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION At the 2025 WAIC, numerous outstanding cases demonstrated how Chinese enterprises, from leading AI model developers to industrial innovators, are leveraging AI technologies to share the benefits of AI development with more countries. This embodies China's commitment to ensuring that AI serves not only as a driver for technological advancement but also as a tool for fostering inclusive growth. At iFLYTEK's exhibition area, the Spark X1 large model unveiled on July 25 has drawn significant attention from international visitors, who asked it questions in their native languages. The model now supports over 130 languages and excels in translation, reasoning, and text generation, facilitating deeper cross-border communication and cooperation. "Our large model products are going global through intelligent terminals such as automobiles, and we are collaborating with partners in other countries on education and other fields," said Wu Junhua, vice president of iFLYTEK. "The overseas expansion of large models shows the globalization of technology. Chinese-origin large models have begun their acceleration run, empowering the world." CITIC Dicastal's plant in Morocco was listed as a "Lighthouse Factory" in January 2025, making it the first facility in Africa to achieve such recognition in the field of intelligent manufacturing. Representing a high level of global smart manufacturing, the plant has implemented over 40 digital use cases. From raw material selection to final packaging of aluminum wheels, every step is monitored and optimized in real time by intelligent systems. This has resulted in a 17 percent increase in overall equipment efficiency, a 27 percent boost in labor productivity, and a 31 percent reduction in defect rates. French multinational Schneider Electric has emerged as a model of collaborative AI innovation through deep integration with China's digital ecosystem. At the 2025 WAIC, Schneider Electric joined hands with several local partners to showcase cutting-edge industrial AI applications. These included Digital Nail Technology, which specializes in AI-powered digital planning in manufacturing and Chance Digital Science & Technology, which showcased breakthrough solutions in AI-driven digital reconstruction and twin modeling for process industries. These collaborations reflect a model of inclusive innovation, leveraging global expertise and China's vibrant AI ecosystem to accelerate real-world adoption and foster shared progress. "China's commitment to driving high-quality development through AI and technological innovation aligns perfectly with our vision of sustainable, green productivity. By partnering with leading Chinese enterprises, we are not only bringing global best practices to China but also exporting China's vibrant AI ecosystem and innovations to the world," said Philippe Rambach, Schneider Electric's Senior Vice President and Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer. "We aim to harness AI's full potential to build a smarter, greener future -- 'in China for China, in China for the world.'" PROMISING INITIATIVES, PARTNERSHIPS Building on its vision for inclusive AI development, China is actively promoting initiatives and alliances designed to consolidate, standardize, and promote global artificial intelligence cooperation. These efforts strongly focus on supporting developing countries as they seek to bridge the "intelligence divide," ensuring that the benefits of AI innovation are shared equitably. At the "Win-Win BRICS" forum held as part of the 2025 WAIC, representatives from many countries and international organizations gathered to discuss AI cooperation. The forum launched the BRICS AI Industry Cooperation Network, aimed at promoting standard alignment, policy dialogue, and practical AI collaboration. Zhang Jun, product lead of Baidu's PaddlePaddle framework, emphasized at the forum that open-source AI plays a vital role in driving inclusive technological development by making AI benefits more accessible. He noted that many of Baidus products and services are actively embracing large model technologies, and through open-source strategies, the company is working to extend AI capabilities to a broader user base. Another key milestone was the launch of the Global Call for AIM Global Centers of Excellence by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), aimed at accelerating AI application in manufacturing and promoting digital transformation across developing countries. This initiative fosters international collaboration and resource sharing to catalyze industrial AI innovation worldwide. Jason Slater, chief of division of digital transformation and artificial intelligence of UNIDO, praised China's support in Africa, especially in Ethiopia, highlighting its efforts to establish centers of excellence, expand technology access, enhance individual skills, and strengthen local innovation ecosystems -- bringing AI benefits to those who need them most. China's commitment to sharing AI governance experience and fostering international partnerships was also highlighted by the launch of "MAZU-Urban," an AI-powered early warning system for multi-hazard disaster prevention. Donated to Djibouti and Mongolia, this system exemplifies China's approach to embedding AI solutions in global public goods, enhancing resilience in vulnerable regions. (Reporting by Ye Ting, You Zhixin, Gong Wen, Huang Anqi and Dong Xue; video reporters: Sun Qing, Chen Jin; video editors: Li Ziwei, Liu Xiaorui, Yin Le and Liu Ruoshi) SPRING CREEK What happens to families whose loved ones served in the military and later died by suicide? According to Ed McClelland, a civilian chaplain with Operation Creekside that partners with 22 Too Many, those families need extra support during their time of grief. Both nonprofit organizations bring awareness and remembrance to military servicemen and women who have died by suicide, and on Friday morning, they recognized two veterans whose families live in Spring Creek by providing custom-made memorial benches. A convoy of about a 25 motorcycles and vehicles, including members of the Gaspar J. Salaz VFW Post 2350, were escorted by the Nevada Highway Patrol and the Elko County Sheriffs Office to deliver the benches to the families of Air Force Senior Airman Rachelle M. Sloan and Army National Guard Sgt. Christopher Greener. The day was the result of a divine appointment, McClelland said. Thanks to the messages on his truck, McClelland said he gets stopped by people during his travels. Last year he met Wendy Greener and her mother Marge Warmbrodt when they saw him pulling the trailer on U.S. Highway 93 as he was heading to Montana with a delivery of benches. Greener also recalled that day. Eds truck and trailer were pulled over to the side of the road and I was behind a semi. I saw veterans and suicide awareness. I lost my son to suicide on May 21, 2023. So, I pulled him over on the Idaho side and thats how we met. He learned about Greeners story and later met Lynnette Vega, founder and president of Zero Suicides Elko County. Greener serves as a Veteran Family Representative for the organization. After consulting with the families, a date was set to deliver two benches to the families in Spring Creek on July 25. It all boils down to what works for the families, because this is very emotional, even for me, McClelland said. Ive done 44 of them and I still struggle every time because of the gravity [of the situation]. Weve had dinner with the family last night, so today will be easier because I know both families. But still, its very difficult. Among the volunteers who rode their motorcycles in the procession from Home2Suites to Vegas and Greeners homes, McClelland said some had personal experiences with suicide. The riders will have difficulty, too, he said. A lot of those guys have either attempted suicide, thought about it a lot, or theyve lost brothers to suicide. So its impacted them too. They see us honoring Im a civilian these families and the memory of their loved ones. Honoring the fallen McClelland arrived in Elko with five benches in the trailer, four that were covered and earmarked for delivery to families, and one used as a display to show how Operation Creekside and 22 Too Many honor the veterans. This is the bench I take everywhere I go because suicide is off the charts, McClelland said. The names and faces of those who have died by suicide are displayed on McClellands pickup. The group 22 Too Many is a very small nonprofit and were operating on both sides of the country, McClelland said. So far, 74 benches in partnership with Operation Creekside have been delivered to families nationwide. The other two benches for Army Spc. Luke Blissett and Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class John Adrian were delivered in Utah and Colorado over the weekend. The bench delivery is a brief ceremony. McClelland explained how veterans will remove the covered bench from the trailer and place it at a designated spot in the familys yard. Theyll guard it until I present it and unveil it, he said. Veterans will then present a folded American flag to the mothers. The flag presentation is usually the most emotional moment of the ceremony he said. Its very emotional. Sometimes they cry, sometimes they cant even get any words out, he said. Remembering the fallen Each bench is custom-made according to the families specifications. Both Vega and Greener were consulted on what words or symbols to use to remember their children that was placed between the logos for Operation Creekside and 22 Too Many with the words God Bless America and Never Forgotten. Sloan graduated from Elko High School in 2002 and joined the Air Force. During her service, she was stationed at Francis E. Warren Air Base in Cheynne, Wyoming, Charleston Air Base in South Carolina and served a four-month tour in Iraq in 2007. She died on Jan. 18, 2008, at the age of 23. On her bench, Vega included a star referring to Vegas first choice for her name inside a yin-yang design with the sun and the moon, along with a phrase Slone wrote: The God of the Universe thinks Im perfect and He is pleased with me. Christopher Greener, a fourth-generation Nevadan, attended schools in Elko and Spring Creek, graduating from Spring Creek High School in 2008 with an advanced diploma. Before graduation, he joined the Nevada National Guard. He served alongside his brother Dustin when they were deployed to Afghanistan in 2013, serving with the 593rd Transportation Co. Christopher had been deployed with the 593rd for five years before his brother was assigned to his company. He served for 12 years and ended his military career as Sergeant E5. After returning to Spring Creek, Christopher resumed his lifelong love for riding horses. He died on May 21, 2023, at age 33. His bench included the message: Its our duty to preserve his memory and an honor to carry his legacy, above a cutout of a horse and rider inside a silhouette of a soldier giving a salute with the Bible verse 2 Corinthians 1:4 below it. A day of firsts McClelland said Fridays delivery marked several firsts since he began delivering benches for Operation Creekside and 22 Too Many, starting with meeting Greener, the mother of a veteran who died by suicide who was the first to flag him down to talk to him. He noted it was the first time two deliveries were made in one day where the families knew one another and the first time the law enforcement escorts stayed for the duration of the presentations. Regarding Sloan, it was the first bench made for a female veteran and the longest duration 17 years since the veteran died by suicide. For the Greeners, it was the first time McClelland experienced a veterans siblings leading and ending the procession, with brother Dustin Greener leading the way and sister Saila Allard the last vehicle in line. He also noted Dustin Greener was the first brother of a veteran to present the folded flags to his mother and the mother of another veteran. Sam Anderson, Christopher Greeners best friend, attended the ceremony on his horse, which was another first, McClelland added. An emotional day Before the 16-mile procession began, Vega admitted being anxious and being unable to eat breakfast that morning. She rode on the back of her husbands motorcycle from Home2Suites to her house and again to Greeners house. Vega said she was aware of 22 Too Many but not Operation Creekside and their benches. She later met McClelland and heard about plans for Greeners bench. She called the tribute amazing. I havent done anything like this for Rachelle ever. To be able to do something like this is pretty special. Greener also acknowledged feeing very emotional ahead of the ride to Spring Creek. Im very honored. Very blessed. I just wish it was under different circumstances, she said. This is something I would never, ever wish on anybody. The procession left Home2Suites about 10 a.m., heading down Idaho Street before turning onto Twelfth Street and then getting on Lamoille Highway. At the stoplight on Errecart Boulevard, Greeners coworkers from Dialysis Clinic Inc. held up a banner with Christophers name and photos on it while waving American flags. It was a gesture that touched and surprised Greener as the staff had come in on their day off to show their support. Greener said it was coordinated through her son Dustin, who knew about the clinics plans and let them know when to appear on the highway. A mission to heal In brief remarks before the benches were unveiled, McClelland shared Bible verses, Jeremiah 8:18 to acknowledge the families pain and the hurt that they feel, and Psalm 69:32, a verse that shows where the comfort comes. Were here to comfort these families. He also asked friends, family and neighbors to visit the Vegas and Greeners. You need to check on these families from time to time. Its very important, he said. Today is about recognizing your tremendous loss. Today is about comforting you and promising that we will never forget. According to its website, 22 Too Many refers to a report that stated the number of veteran suicides averaged 22 per day. The nonprofit was launched in 2013, formed by two mothers, Keri Jacobs and Dayna Rashidian. Our mission is to serve as a living memorial to our fallen, increase public knowledge of PTSD, share helpful resources and provide support and comfort to the grieving families left behind, the organization states. Operation Creekside began in 2009 sending out care packages from a small church in Brentwood, California. The organization began creating memorial benches at the request of a Rock Springs, Wyoming, family for Army veteran Joshua Thompson. From there, Operation Creekside added the benches to its care package mission with McClelland handling West Coast deliveries and Joe and Carol Goetz taking benches to families on the East Coast. Its a good mission, McClelland said. Honor and respect are the goals. Whether we have two riders or a thousand, the family is what its about. Its not about anything else but family. McClelland said despite reports saying veteran and active-duty military suicide is decreasing, he believes otherwise. The government wants to say its down. Its not down. Its on the rise. Active duty is on the rise. A lot of our benches are for young people that are born in the 2000s are already gone, he continued. McClelland said another bench currently in development is for a 19-year-old who died by suicide. That is hard to imagine but thats whats happening. Theyre getting younger and some of its not even PTSD. Its other stuff, he said. It could be military bullying. It could be military sexual trauma. Some things that are already not talked about or known. So thats a problem. As a chaplain, McClelland said he visits families who dont get any attention. You can ask Lynette. You can ask Wendy. They dont get much attention. Theyre doing a lot on their own or helping other people with their grief. Theres a lot of these families that go into grief mode and thats it. Active in veteran ministry, McClelland said he was asked by 22 Too Many to visit families of those who perished by suicide. Every single family will accept a visit, and Ill sit there for hours while they tell you about their kid. I found out this is a good mission, and I also found out there was a tremendous need. They dont get any attention. He also realized families were struggling through their grief. A lot of people say the wrong things. Like Its been 10 years. It never goes away. Grief never goes away if its the loss of a child. As a chaplain, McClelland said he shows up. We sit and listen. We dont try to fix anybody. We just listen to their stories. They become family. McClelland said he, the Thompsons, Greeners, Vegas and many others are now part of a larger family. They need that because they need support and they need to know theyre not alone in their grief. Greener agreed. Thanks to organizations such as 22 Too Many and Operation Creekside, she hoped more people would open up about their difficulties and seek help. Mental health is just as important as physical health, she said. We must talk about it openly, without shame or stigma. The US Department of Education has opened an investigation into Duke University and Duke Law Journal, prompted by allegations that race, color, or national origin may factor into decisions about who joins the law journal. The probe, announced Monday, is rooted in claims that Duke's selection process could run afoul of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination in programs receiving federal funds, CNN reports. Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. separately sent a letter to Duke School of Medicine and Duke Health "outlining shared concerns about the use of race preferences in Duke's hiring, admissions, and scholarship decisions," the Duke Chronicle reports. Officials want the Durham, North Carolina, university to "provide clear and verifiable assurances" that any policy changes will actually be carried out, even if that means making leadership or personnel shifts. The university is the latest in a string of schools under scrutiny, following federal funding battles with Harvard and a recent settlement with Columbia. Duke administrators declined to comment Monday on whether the investigations are linked to the Trump administration's reported demands for Duke and other universities to pay millions of dollars before they can access federal funds, reports the Chronicle. Kidnappers killed 38 villagers abducted from northern Nigeria even after receiving ransom payments for their release, according to local officials. The victims were among 56 people taken from Banga village in the Kauran Namoda area of Zamfara state back in March, with abductors demanding roughly $655 per captive. Local government chairman Manniru Haidara Kaura told the BBC that after negotiations, the requested ransom was handed over and 18 hostages17 women and a young boywere released over the weekend. Sixteen of those freed are now hospitalized, while the fate of the remaining captives turned grim. Kaura described the killings as brutal, noting that most victims were young and "slaughtered like rams." Their bodies are unlikely to be returned as kidnappers rarely release them. This incident highlights the growing problem of mass kidnappings by local criminal gangs, often referred to as "bandits," who have turned ransom-seeking into a booming business. In 2022, Nigeria's government enacted a law criminalizing ransom paymentsa move meant to deter kidnappings--carrying a minimum 15-year prison sentence. Abductions resulting in death can be punished by execution. Yet no arrests have been made under the law, and families continue to pay ransoms, blaming authorities for failing to keep them safe. An artificial intelligence data center that would use more electricity than every home in Wyoming combined, before expanding to as much as five times that size, will be built soon near Cheyenne, according to the city's mayor. "It's a game changer. It's huge," Mayor Patrick Collins said Monday. With cool weathergood for keeping computer temperatures downand an abundance of inexpensive electricity from a top energy-producing state, Wyoming's capital has become a computing power hub, per the AP . The city has been home to Microsoft data centers since 2012, and an $800 million data center announced last year by Facebook parent Meta Platforms is nearing completion, Collins said. The latest center, a joint effort between regional energy infrastructure company Tallgrass and AI data center developer Crusoe, would begin at 1.8 gigawatts of electricity and be scalable to 10 gigawatts, per a joint company statement. A gigawatt can power as many as 1 million homes, but that's more homes than Wyoming has people: The least populated state, Wyoming, has only about 590,000 residents. And it's a major exporter of energya top producer of coal, oil, and gas, Wyoming ranks behind only Texas, New Mexico, and Pennsylvania as a top net energy-producing state, per the US Energy Information Administration. Accounting for fossil fuels, Wyoming produces about 12 times more energy than it consumes, exporting almost three-fifths of the electricity it produces, per the EIA. But this proposed data center is so big, it would have its own dedicated energy from gas generation and renewable sources, according to Collins and company officials. Gov. Mark Gordon praised the project's value to the state's gas industry. "This is exciting news for Wyoming and for Wyoming natural gas producers," he said. story continues below While data centers are energy-hungry, experts say companies can help reduce their effect on the climate by powering them with renewable energy rather than fossil fuels. Even so, electricity customers might see their bills increase as utilities plan for massive data projects on the grid. This data center would be built several miles south of Cheyenne, off US 85 near the Colorado state line. State and local regulators need to sign off on the project, but Collins is optimistic construction can begin soon. The Chelan County Sheriff's Office in Washington state says it is scaling back its search for Travis Decker, the man accused of killing his three daughters nearly two months ago. Paityn, 9; Evelyn, 8; and Olivia, 5, went missing after leaving home for a scheduled visit with their father on May 30. Their bodies were discovered June 2 near Rock Island Campground, sparking a sprawling manhunt. Authorities described their search of the rugged wilderness and crime scene as "exhaustive." Though the investigation remains open, officials acknowledged Friday that leads have dwindled and the ongoing search effort will have a "reduced footprint," per ABC News . The sheriff's office says there's not enough evidence to determine if Decker is alive or dead, as some others believe. Until concrete evidence surfaces, he remains wanted on three counts of first-degree murder and three counts of kidnapping, and is considered armed and dangerous. The latest search effort focused on the Blewett Pass area in the Wenatchee Mountains, but officials said nothing conclusive was found tying Decker to that region. The sheriff's office is urging anyone who encounters possible evidence to carefully mark the location and, if safe, take photos. The US Marshals Service continues to offer a $20,000 reward for information leading to Decker's arrest. A gunman killed at least four people at a Manhattan office building on Monday evening, the AP reports, one of them an off-duty New York City police officer shot while exchanging fire with the shooter in the lobby, NBC News reports. The suspect then disappeared into the skyscraper, and panicked employees ran into the streets screaming. Police said they later found the gunman on the building's 33rd floor, dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and they described him as a 27-year-old man from Nevada who acted alone. The Park Avenue building houses the offices of some of major financial firms, per the AP, as well as the National Football League. An Oklahoma sheriff's office on Monday opened an investigation over reports that images of nude women were displayed on the state's school superintendent's office television during a meeting with education board members. Top Oklahoma lawmakers have sought answers over accounts given by two State Board of Education members, who said they saw the images during a meeting in Ryan Walters' office Thursday. Another board member, Chris Van Denhende, said he was not in a position to see the television but that "something was on the screen that should not have been," based on Walters' reaction, reports the AP . The investigation is in the early stages, said Aaron Brilbeck, a spokesperson for the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office. He said it was not clear if any laws were violated. Walters, a Republican, has spent much of his first term in office lauding President Trump, feuding with teachers unions and local school superintendents, and trying to end what he describes as "wokeness" in public schools. Brilbeck said the sheriff's office was investigating at the request of the state's Office of Management and Enterprise Services, which handles technology, human resources, and property management issues for state government. Education board members Becky Carson and Ryan Deatherage told the online news outlet NonDoc that they saw a video featuring naked women in Walters' office during the executive session. They said that they were the only people seated in places where they could see the screen. Carson recounted her experience to NonDoc: "I was like, 'Is that woman naked?' And then I was like, 'No, she's got a body suit on.' And it happened very quickly, I was like, 'That is not a body suit.' And I hate to even use these terms, but I said, 'Those are her nipples.' And then I was looking closer, and I got a full-body view, and I was like, 'That is pubic hair.'" story continues below Carson said that when she asked Walters to turn it off he expressed confusion before doing so. Walters said in an X post on Sunday that "any suggestion that a device of mine was used to stream inappropriate content on the television set is categorically false. I have no knowledge of what was on the TV screen during the alleged incident, and there is absolutely no truth to any implication of wrongdoing," he wrote. Walters' office did not immediately reply to a request by the AP for comment about the investigation on Monday. Van Denhende told the AP that he's fine with the sheriff's department investigating, though "I'm not certain if it is a violation of law or state policy." John McWhorter is a linguist who describes himself as Black, not African American. In a New York Times op-ed, McWhorter makes the case that the latter term should be retired for good. For him, and he suspects a lot of others, the link to Africa has never felt right. The "African connection is too long ago. It's too abstract," he tells colleague David Leonhardt in a Times interview amplifying his op-ed. "Italian American is one thing. Your mother, your grandmother speaks Sicilian, and you're eating Italian food and you have a certain way of talking. There's a whole culture." Not so with most African Americans in that regard, he adds. Federal workers now have broader leeway to pray and discuss their faith at the office under new guidelines from the Trump administration. The changes, outlined by the Office of Personnel Management, permit employees to share religious beliefs and try to "persuade others of the correctness of their own religious views," as long as they don't cross into harassment, per Politico. Supervisors can also encourage religious expression, including prayer, without fear of violating workplace rules. OPM Director Scott Kupor framed the move as a step toward making federal workplaces more accommodating for employees of all faiths. The White House noted that similar language appeared in a Bill Clinton-era memo. An alleged international scam artist known as the " Hollywood Con Queen " has lost a last-ditch attempt to avoid extradition from the UK to the US, setting the stage for a dramatic trial in California. Hargobind Tahilramani, a 45-year-old Indonesian citizen, faces charges related to an alleged seven-year fraud scheme that targeted the movie industry. He allegedly posed as high-profile female film executives while swindling roughly $1 million from 300 individualsincluding actors and screenwritersbetween 2013 and 2020, per Reuters . Prosecutors say Tahilramani enticed victims to travel to Indonesia with promises of lucrative film work, only for them to be hit with hefty, fraudulent fees. After his 2020 arrest in Manchester, England, a British court and government officials approved his transfer to the US. Tahilramani contested the decision, citing concerns over his mental health and his safety as a gay man in American prisons. His legal team argued in London's High Court that these issues could subject him to isolation and a heightened risk of suicide. However, Justice Derek Sweeting upheld the extradition order, noting any difference in Tahilramani's treatment in US prisons would be with the intention to prevent interprisoner violence, per the Independent. Tahilramani, who has applied for asylum in the UK, is now expected to stand trial in the US on charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. A peaceful hike among Yosemite's towering sequoias turned tragic when a Google engineer was fatally struck by a falling tree branch. Angela Lin, 29, was killed while hiking with her boyfriend and two friends in Yosemite's famed Tuolumne Grove on July 19, per SFGate . She was nearly a mile along the paved trail admiring sequoias when large branches snapped off overhead. According to her boyfriend, Lin was struck and likely died instantly; emergency responders arrived quickly, but she never regained consciousness. The National Park Service closed the trail for a week but has released little information, with the case still under investigation, leaving Lin's family and friends to press for more transparency. "We are seeking more information... especially around trail safety, maintenance and awareness of problematic trees," Lin's boyfriend, David Hua, tells SFGate. "It was just unimaginable that something like this could occur. On such a popular trail, too." Though incidents like this are rare in Yosemite, an Australian hiker was killed by a falling tree on the Four Mile trail in October. Two high school students were also killed when a tree limb fell on their tent in the Upper Pines Campground in 2015. What sets Lin's death apart is its randomness: no wind, clear skies, and a careful hiker on a well-trodden path. "It hits so so hard because they were doing nothing wrong or careless," a witness to the incident later wrote on Reddit, noting the "extremely tragic freak accident ... has been haunting me." Lin, remembered as "whip-smart" and warm by friends and colleagues, was a Bay Area native with degrees from UC Berkeley and UT Austin, and worked at both Salesforce and Google. Google issued a statement mourning the loss of "a loved and respected member of our team." Fans from around the world will line the streets of Birmingham, England, on Wednesday as Ozzy Osbourne's funeral procession makes its final journey through the city he called home, offering a last chance to honor the legendary Black Sabbath frontman who died last week . A hearse carrying Osbourne's body will move along Broad Street to the Black Sabbath Bridge and its well-known bench, which has become a gathering spot for tributes and flowers from admirers, accompanied by local band Bostin' Brass, the BBC reports. The City Council and Osbourne's familywho are covering the event's costshave worked quickly to coordinate the tribute, which precedes a private funeral later in the day, "the details of which have not been made public," per the Guardian . Lord Mayor Zafar Iqbal called Osbourne a "son of Birmingham," per the BBC, crediting him with putting the city and his neighborhood of Aston on the map. Iqbal and many fans have already lined up to sign a condolence book, sharing stories and memories. Visitors from as far as Mexico, the US, and Poland have come to pay their respects, leaving heartfelt messages, per the BBC. One note from Greece described Osbourne as "a light in the darkness" and thanked him for his music. Broad Street will be closed to traffic from 7am local time on Wednesday, with public transport rerouted for the event. Those unable to attend in person can watch a livestream focused on the Black Sabbath bench. Additional tributes include the Ozzy Osbourne exhibition at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Get the news faster. Tap to install our app. Access Newser even faster. Click here to install our app on your desktop. X China is rolling out its first nationwide child subsidy, offering parents about $500 a year for each child under age 3 in a move to address its declining birth rate. The new policy, which the BBC reports was announced Monday, is expected to support around 20 million families. Parents can receive up to $1,500 per child over three years, and the payments will be retroactive to the start of 2024. Families with children born between 2022 and 2024 qualify for partial benefits. The income is not taxable and isn't counted when determining poverty benefits eligibility, notes the Independent . This marks a significant shift since the country moved away from its one-child policy nearly a decade ago. Despite the change, the birth rate hasn't rebounded. In 2024, China recorded 9.54 million birthsa slight uptick from the previous year, but not enough to reverse an overall population decline now in its third consecutive year. Local governments have already tested a variety of incentives. For example, Hohhot city has offered as much as 100,000 yuan (about $14,000) per baby for couples with three or more children, while Shenyang city gives monthly stipends to families with a third child. Beijing has taken steps to expand access to preschool education, hoping to further reduce costs for young families. story continues below Underlying the push is the rising expense of raising children in China, with a China-based think tank estimating the cost through age 17 at roughly $75,700one of the world's highest levels. At the same time, China's population is aging rapidly, adding urgency to efforts aimed at reversing demographic decline. The Trump administration plans to destroy roughly $9.7 million worth of US-funded contraceptives, currently sitting in a Belgian warehouse, after labeling some of them as "abortifacients" under rules reinstated when President Trump returned to office. The stockpileintended for international aidincludes more than 50,000 IUDs, nearly 2 million injectable doses, 900,000 implants, and over 2 million packets of oral birth control, reports the Washington Post . Critics, including Belgium's government, the United Nations, and humanitarian groups, say these supplies are desperately needed in developing countries, estimating they could help prevent unplanned pregnancies for up to 950,000 women over several years. The State Department says only a "limited number" of items are slated for disposal and no HIV medication or condoms will be destroyed. However, officials declined to clarify which products are considered "abortifacients," even as medical experts note standard contraceptives do not induce abortions, but prevent conception. "These are essential, lifesaving supplies that would have supported reproductive autonomy and prevented unsafe abortions and maternal deathsbeing wasted and destroyed at U.S. taxpayers' expense, despite offers from global partners to distribute them to women and families in need," says Chelsea Polis of the Guttmacher Institute, which supports abortion rights. Doctors Without Borders tells NPR that the products involved carry expiration dates ranging from 2027 to 2031. Belgium, the UN Population Fund, and groups like International Planned Parenthood tried to find alternatives to destructionincluding offers to purchase and distribute the contraceptivesbut failed to reach a solution. A State Department spokesperson cited the revived Mexico City policy, which bars funding to organizations linked to abortion services, as the rationale behind the move. The cost to incinerate the supplies is pegged at $167,000, while officials claim canceling future orders will save millions. Lawmakers from both parties have objected, urging a reversal and introducing legislation to halt the disposal, which is slated for the end of July. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Tuesday that the UK will recognize a Palestinian state in Septemberunless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza and takes steps toward long-term peace. Starmer called ministers together for a rare summertime Cabinet meeting to discuss the situation in Gaza, reports the AP . Earlier this month, France said it planned to recognize Palestine as a state and will do so formally in September. However, France did not set any conditions, such as a ceasefire. Starmer said Britain will recognize a state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly, "unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, reaches a ceasefire, makes clear there will be no annexation in the West Bank, and commits to a long-term peace process that delivers a two-state solution." Britain has long supported the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, but has said recognition should come as part of a negotiated two-state solution to the conflict. UPDATE Aug 4, 2025 5:04 PM CDT Sean "Diddy" Combs has been behind bars since his arrest in September, and he won't be getting out ahead of his Oct. 3 sentencing. Judge Arun Subramanian, who oversaw his trial, rejected a bail request Monday. "Combs fails to satisfy his burden to demonstrate an entitlement to release," the judge wrote, per Variety. Combs was acquitted last month of racketeering and sex trafficking. The music mogul, whose lawyers urged Subramanian to free him on a $50 million bond, could still get up to 20 years on two lesser prostitution-related counts, though a much lower sentence is expected. Jul 29, 2025 4:01 PM CDT Music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs wants to go free on a $50 million bond as he awaits sentencing. Combs' legal team asked Judge Arun Subramanian to consider the request on Tuesday, and the judge has yet to rule, reports the New York Times. While Combs was acquitted of the most serious charges against him in his sex-trafficking trial, he was convicted of lesser counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. He faces up to 20 years in prison, though Deadline suggests it's more likely he'll get two or three years at the fall sentencing. An Olympic gold medalist from Germany who was injured while attempting to scale a peak in northern Pakistan is stranded on the mountain and search teams were forced to abort efforts to reach her after sunset on Tuesday, officials said. Laura Dahlmeier, a biathlete (a winter sport that pairs cross-country skiing and rifle shooting) who also won the 2017 women's biathlon World Cup, was seriously injured on Monday while ascending Laila Peak in Pakistan's Karakoram mountain range. Another rescue attempt will get underway with the help of helicopters after dawn on Wednesday, according to Faizullah Faraq, a spokesperson for the Gilgit-Baltistan regional government. He could not provide further details on Dahlmeier's condition. In Germany, Dahlmeier's management told the broadcaster ZDF that she was seriously injured in a rockfall at an altitude of about 18,700 feet around noon on Monday. "Due to the remoteness of the area, a helicopter was only able to reach the site of the accident on the morning of July 29," the statement said. The 31-year-old's rope partner, Marina Eva, was also struck by falling rocks. Eva managed to descend to base camp with help from rescuers on Tuesday. The German news agency dpa said Dahlmeier and Eva were climbing in alpine style when the accident occurred. The VP of the Pakistan Alpine Club told the AP that Dahlmeier sustained "serious injuries" and that Pakistani military helicopters were helping in coordinated rescue efforts. Reuters reports Dahlmeier retired from the sport in 2019 at the age of 25; the previous year she became the first female biathlete to win the sprint and pursuit double at the same Olympics. SoFi Technologies climbed 6.6%, but Merck dropped 1.7% and UPS sank 10.6% following a torrent of profit reports from big US companies, the AP reports. They're among the hundreds of companies telling investors this week how much they made during the spring, including nearly a third of the stocks in the S&P 500. This week could prove pivotal in determining whether the US stock market can keep climbing to more records or succumb to criticism that it's grown too expensive following its dramatic leap in recent months. One way companies can tamp down such criticism is to deliver solid growth in profits. That helped Cadence Design Systems, whose stock came into the day with a gain of 11.1% for the year so far. The computational software company said it's continuing to benefit from the flood of investment into the artificial-intelligence industry, and it raised its forecast for revenue growth this year. Its stock rallied 9.7%. But investors have also been punishing stocks of companies that have failed to meet expectations so far this reporting season. UnitedHealth Group dropped 7.5% after reporting a profit for the spring that fell short of analysts' expectations. It also gave a forecast for profit over all of 2025 that investors found disappointing. The health care giant said it expected to earn at least $16 per share, when analysts were looking for something close to $20, according to FactSet. Shares of Novo Nordisk that trade in the United States tumbled 21.8% after the Danish company cut its forecast for sales growth this year, in part because of lower expectations for its Wegovy weight-loss drug amid high competition. It also named a new chief executive officer. story continues below Wall Street had a relatively muted reaction after China's top trade official said that China and the United States have agreed to work on extending a deadline for new tariffs on each other. Trade officials from the world's two largest economies had been talking in Stockholm ahead of an Aug. 12 deadline, after which much higher tariffs are scheduled to resume. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, though, said that US officials would head back to Washington and "talk to the president about whether that's something that he wants to do," meaning an extension in the pause in tariffs. Fairbanks, AK (99701) Today Light rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers in the afternoon. High near 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Partly cloudy this evening, then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 52F. Winds light and variable. A visitor views a robot for live-line maintenance at the 2025 World AI Conference in east China's Shanghai, July 28, 2025. The ongoing 2025 World AI Conference showcases diverse application scenarios of AI. (Xinhua/Chen Haoming) A robot demonstrates clothes-folding at the 2025 World AI Conference in east China's Shanghai, July 28, 2025. The ongoing 2025 World AI Conference showcases diverse application scenarios of AI. (Xinhua/Chen Haoming) Visitors try their hands with an AI-powered video creation tool at the 2025 World AI Conference in east China's Shanghai, July 28, 2025. The ongoing 2025 World AI Conference showcases diverse application scenarios of AI. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) Performers wearing AI-powered glasses are pictured at the 2025 World AI Conference in east China's Shanghai, July 28, 2025. The ongoing 2025 World AI Conference showcases diverse application scenarios of AI. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) Visitors view a booth of AI-powered smart glasses at the 2025 World AI Conference in east China's Shanghai, July 28, 2025. The ongoing 2025 World AI Conference showcases diverse application scenarios of AI. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) A staff member (R) introduces a mobile AI assistant product to a visitor at the 2025 World AI Conference in east China's Shanghai, July 28, 2025. The ongoing 2025 World AI Conference showcases diverse application scenarios of AI. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) Editor: WXY AFP | United Nations Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com France told a UN conference co-chaired with Saudi Arabia yesterday that there is no alternative to a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. Only a political, two-state solution will help respond to the legitimate aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security. There is no alternative, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said at the start of the three-day meeting. Days before the conference, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that he would formally recognize a State of Palestine in September. In an interview with French weekly La Tribune Dimanche, Barrot said that other European countries will confirm their intention to recognize the State of Palestine during the conference, without confirming which. All states have a responsibility to act now, said Palestinian prime minister Mohammad Mustafa at the start of the meeting, calling for an international force to deploy to help underwrite Palestinian statehood. Recognize the state of Palestine without delay. France is hoping that Britain will take this step. More than 200 British members of parliament on Friday voiced support for the idea, but Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated that recognition of a Palestinian state must be part of a wider plan. In 1947, a resolution of the UN General Assembly decided on the partition of Palestine, then under a British mandate, into two independent states -- one Jewish and the other Arab. The following year, the state of Israel was proclaimed. For several decades, the vast majority of UN member states have supported the idea of a two-state solution, Israelis and Palestinians living side-by-side. But after more than 21 months of war in Gaza, the ongoing expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, and Israeli officials declaring designs to annex occupied territory, it is feared a Palestinian state could be geographically impossible. The current war in Gaza started following a deadly attack by Hamas on Israel, which responded with a large-scale military response that has claimed tens of thousands of Palestinian lives. NAGOYA, Jul 29 (News On Japan) - A 66-year-old man has been arrested for repeatedly stealing sweets from an unmanned store in Nagoya, with police suspecting him of targeting the same shop on six occasions since the beginning of the year. Security footage from the early morning of July 14th shows a man in flashy clothing entering the self-service store and heading straight for the display of snacks near the entrance. Without hesitation, he began grabbing handfuls of candy and cookies, stuffing them into a black bag he had brought with him. Ignoring the surroundings, he continued putting items into his bag and left the store without paying. According to the shop owner, the value of the stolen items that day was around 500 yen and included candies and cookies. "This kind of behavior is just heartbreaking. Its truly disappointing," the owner said. The incident was not the first. The same man is believed to have stolen from the store five times before, making this the sixth known theft. In one incident in May, he was seen browsing the snacks near the entrance when a warning alarm suddenly sounded in the store. Startled but undeterred, he proceeded to sweep the items into his bag and left. The shop owner estimates that nearly 100 items, including gum and cookies, have been stolen in total, amounting to roughly 10,000 yen in losses. On July 28th, police arrested Masahiro Koyama, an unemployed resident of Nagoya, on suspicion of stealing sweets from the store. Investigators are now examining whether he is the same individual captured on the stores security cameras. Source: FNN TOKYO, Jul 30 (News On Japan) - Toyota Motor has resumed part of its advertising on Fuji TV, returning in late July with sponsorship of a motorsports segment in the evening news after a suspension that began in January. The company explained that the program aligns with its goal of "conveying the appeal of cars." Toyota also stated, "We intend to continue advertising and sponsorships with media in a way that resonates with our customers and stakeholders." The automaker had halted its advertising on Fuji TV since mid-January. Separately, Nissan has also restarted limited advertising, disclosing that it resumed commercials in select anime programs earlier this month. The shift follows a broader trend among major advertisers. Beverage giant Suntory and confectionery maker Lotte resumed commercials on Fuji TV in July, and food manufacturer Meiji is expected to follow from August. Source: TBS Jul 30 (News On Japan) - A Chinese film depicting the wartime activities of Japans notorious Unit 731 has had its release suddenly postponed, likely out of consideration for diplomatic relations with Japan. The movie centers on Unit 731, a covert division of the former Japanese military that developed biological weapons and conducted human experiments in the former region of Manchuriapresent-day northeastern Chinaduring the Second Sino-Japanese War. According to Chinese media, the film has been in production since 2017 by a director from Jilin Province. It tells the story of an individual whose turbulent fate exposes the atrocities committed by Unit 731. The film was initially scheduled for release on July 31sta date chosen to reflect the title "731." A reporter at the scene noted, "Previously, the promotional material listed 'July 31st release,' but that date has now been removed." Despite the abrupt delay, the film continued to rank first in interest on ticketing platforms as of today. The sudden postponement has sparked confusion and disappointment online. One user wrote, "It was scheduled just a few days ago. I tried to buy tickets today, and it was gone." Another commented, "Why was it postponed? Ive waited an entire year for this." This year marks the 80th anniversary of China's victory in the war against Japan, with commemorative events being held nationwide. The decision to delay the film is seen as an effort to avoid stirring anti-Japanese sentiment and further straining diplomatic ties. Source: TBS HYOGO, Jul 30 (News On Japan) - Mukogawa Women's University in Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture, has announced it will become coeducational starting in the 2027 academic year. The move highlights a growing crossroads for Japans women's universities. With nearly 10,000 students across 13 faculties, Mukogawa is one of the largest women's universities in Japan. On July 29th, the university held a press conference to confirm the shift to coeducation and announced that it will change its name to Mukogawa University, dropping the word "Women's" from its official title. Some students voiced opposition to the change. A second-year student said, "I was shocked. I'm against it." A fourth-year student added, "I chose a womens university because it felt easier to be myself without worrying about how I act around boys. This feels suffocating." Despite these concerns, Mukogawa Women's University decided to move forward with coeducation. At the press conference, Ryo Okawara, chair of the Mukogawa Gakuin board, explained the rationale behind the decision. "With the accelerating decline in the birthrate, universities are entering an era of intense competition," said Okawara. "There's a clear trend among high school students of moving away from womens universities. We can no longer ignore the harsh outlook for institutions that serve only female students." According to the university, the number of applicants through the general entrance exam has halved compared to fiscal 2020. It warns that without changes, it may not be able to maintain its current scale in four to six years. Some womens universities that have already become coeducational report improved enrollment rates, making coeducation a key strategy for financial sustainability. While more womens universities are shifting in this direction, others are choosing to reaffirm their identity. At Kyoto Womens University, one of Kansai's most prestigious womens institutions, the main entrance prominently displays a "Womens University Declaration," which is posted throughout campus. President Eiko Takeyasu said, "I've heard many concerns from current students who are unsure about their future. I felt we had to first ease their anxiety and restore calm." The university believes that providing an environment for women to grow freely is essential in Japanese society. A third-year student commented, "Having boys around might make you more self-conscious or cause you to hold back." A first-year student said, "Compared to when I was in a coed high school, I can truly be myself every day here. I feel free to express my individuality." Takeyasu added, "In this society, women often unconsciously put on the feminine mask. But in a women-only environment, they can shed that and discover capabilities they didn't realize they had. It allows them to grow into who they really are." As more institutions see coeducation as a lifeline, womens universities must now make a difficult choice: maintain tradition or adapt to survive. Anchor Chiaki Kuroki asked why women's universities are declining. Announcer Mikiyasu Watanabe presented the situation at major womens universities in Kansai. Mukogawa Women's University, which officially announced its coeducational plan on July 29th, cited a sharp drop in applicants as a key reason. After announcing the coeducation plan in June, the number of visitors to its open campus events increased by 1.5 times compared to the previous year. Other schools are following suit. Kyoto Koka Women's University will become coeducational in the 2026 academic year. Kobe Kaisei Womens University and Kyoto Notre Dame University have already halted student recruitment, with Kobe Kaisei having done so starting in 2024. Asked why students are turning away from womens universities, Watanabe pointed to declining birthrates and changes in admissions systems. He also cited an expert opinion: With the 2015 enactment of the Act on Promotion of Womens Participation and Advancement in the Workplace, more women are aiming for career-track positions. This has made them more likely to choose academically prestigious coed universities, contributing to the decline in womens universities. Kuroki then asked how universities view the role of womens education. Watanabe presented two perspectives. Mukogawas chair Okawara stated, To succeed in society, women need to collaborate with men. This is increasingly expected, so its important to foster such collaboration from the university level. In contrast, Kyoto Womens University President Takeyasu said, Even if systems change, gender disparities persist beneath the surface. Women-only institutions help eliminate those disparities and offer a nurturing environmentsomething essential in Japanese education. Kuroki concluded, "While it's important to provide various options, there will always be women who need a women-only learning environment. Offering a broad range of choices is key for society as a whole." Source: YOMIURI HYOGO, Jul 30 (News On Japan) - Three men have admitted to charges related to the concealment of a womans body in a household freezer in Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, in a case that began at the Otsu District Court on July 29th. The primary defendant, Hidenori Nonaka, 63, was indicted for abandoning the body of his wife in a freezer at a house in Nagahama five years ago. Prosecutors also charged Koichiro Iwase, 72, a relative and resident of the house, and his son Tatsuhiko, 49, for assisting in the act. All three defendants admitted to the charges in court, each stating, "No objection." In its opening statement, the prosecution said that while the cause of death remains unknown, the woman had been subjected to physical abuse by Iwase and Tatsuhiko. To prevent the bruises on her body from being discovered, Nonaka proposed placing the body in a freezer, the prosecution alleged. The three men reportedly placed the body in a plastic bag and hid it in the freezer. The next hearing is scheduled for September 16th, when the trial is expected to conclude. Source: YOMIURI OSAKA, Jul 30 (News On Japan) - A Russian woman was found dead in her apartment in Osakas Naniwa Ward, and police have arrested her 21-year-old son on suspicion of robbery and murder. The suspect, Kinki Ito, a 21-year-old company employee living in Shizuoka Prefecture, is accused of killing his mother, Elena Ito, a 50-year-old Russian national, in her apartment on June 26th. Police allege that he struck her dozens of times, strangled her, and then stole 15,000 yen in cash. Ito had already been arrested earlier for trespassing into the neighboring apartment building to gain access to his mothers balcony. During questioning at that time, he reportedly told police, "I punched her several times, then strangled her with both hands for over five minutes and broke her neck." However, he has remained silent regarding the robbery-murder charge. A friend of Elena told reporters, "Three months ago, she said she was beaten badly. She said her son would sometimes beat her." An autopsy determined that the cause of death was heatstroke. Investigators are continuing to examine the relationship between the assault and her death, while also probing the possibility that Ito had previously demanded money from his mother, as they work to establish the motive. Source: YOMIURI HYOGO, Jul 30 (News On Japan) - The mayor of Joetsu City, Kanta Nakagawa, who sparked controversy by saying "Sanda's rice is bad," traveled to Hyogo Prefecture to personally apologize to the people of Sanda, including its mayor and local farmers. Nakagawa, who spent his junior high and high school years in Sanda, made the controversial remark in early July, saying, "The rice is bad, but the sake is good." The comment prompted Sanda Mayor Katsuya Tamura to send a formal letter of protest, leading Nakagawa to issue a public apology. During his visit on July 29th, Nakagawa was served a bowl of freshly cooked Sanda rice. Without saying a word, he quietly finished every grain, occasionally sipping tea and nibbling pickles. When asked about the taste, he said, "It was chewy and genuinely delicious." Nakagawa met first with Tamura, offering a deep apology: "I sincerely apologize for causing distress with my extremely careless and inappropriate remark." He then visited local rice farmers and again expressed regret: "I deeply reflect on having made everyone uncomfortable and am truly sorry." One farmer responded, "It made us feel a bit bad, honestly. We work hard to grow this rice, and we hope you understand that." After touring rice production sites, Nakagawa addressed a group of farmers directly: "What you have built up through hard work was disrespected by my thoughtless and inconsiderate words. I again offer my deepest apologies." Some farmers voiced serious concerns following the remark, saying, "What happens if Sanda rice prices fall or sales decline? Will Joetsu take responsibility?" In response to the concerns and in an effort to make amends, Nakagawa proposed organizing a promotional event for Sanda rice, once again apologizing: "I truly regret causing so much distress. Im deeply sorry." Nakagawa is currently facing a call to resign from the Joetsu City Council over his remark. Whether this round of public apologies will be enough to restore public trust remains to be seen. Source: FNN Introducing a Seamless, Multi-Brand Shopping Experience MONTREAL, July 29, 2025 /CNW/ - Home Societe Group is proud to announce that their newly rebranded and consolidated e-commerce website, mustsociete.com , is now live. Designed to mirror the experience of visiting the brand's large-format stores in Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City and Ottawa, the refreshed platform brings together the company's full portfolioincluding Maison Corbeil, MUST, Jardin de Ville, Galerie du Meuble and Home Societeinto one elevated and intuitive digital space. Home Societe Group Introduces a Seamless, Multi-Brand Shopping Experience Post this Home Societe Group's New Unified E-Commerce Platform on MUST Societe (CNW Group/Home Societe Group) "The launch of our new website marks a pivotal milestone in our digital transformation and brand consolidation journey," said Walid Laaraba, President of the Group. "By bringing all our brands and curated collections under one digital roof, we're delivering a more seamless, elevated customer experiencedesigned to reflect the quality, coherence, and style our clients expect. A World of Design. One Destination As the most recognized and visited digital storefront, MUST SOCIETEknown for its modern, fashion-forward designs and multi-brand showroomswas the natural choice to anchor the rebrand. Previously housed on separate websites, each brand now lives under one roof, allowing users to shop all brand collections in a seamless, single-cart experience. While each brand maintains its own homepage and identity, the platform's navigation is now more streamlined, with a significantly enhanced mobile experience. Key Upgrades Include: Shop All Brands Together One cart, one checkout, and easy brand-to-brand browsing. One cart, one checkout, and easy brand-to-brand browsing. Mobile-Optimized and Lightning Fast The rebranded site runs on Shopify, providing quicker load times, simple navigation, and an elevated mobile shopping experience. The rebranded site runs on providing quicker load times, simple navigation, and an elevated mobile shopping experience. Enhanced Checkout Experience One-step checkout with Shop Pay, Apple Pay, and more. One-step checkout with and more. Live Support, Smarter Tools Gorgias -AI powered live chat and integration with the Shop app offer a smooth and supported online journey. -AI powered live chat and integration with the app offer a smooth and supported online journey. First-Time Online Access for La Galerie du Meuble and Home Societe Customers The rebrand brings La Galerie du Meuble into the e-commerce space for the very first time, while allowing Home Societe customers to now shop all brands in one website. Built in collaboration with Valtech (site design and development), Paprika (UX design), and Home Societe Group's in-house design team, the site's new look brings the physical showroom's refined aesthetic to the digital space. This digital relaunch represents a pivotal first move in Home Societe Group's continued investment in customer experience and innovation while delivering a consistent, premium experience at every touchpoint. ABOUT HOME SOCIETE GROUP Home Societe Group is a leader in mid to high-end interior and exterior furnishings, with 17 existing stores across Quebec and Ontario (Toronto and Ottawa). The company's portfolio includes Maison Corbeil, MUST, Jardin de Ville, Home Societe and La Galerie du Meuble. Home Societe Group is committed to offering a seamless blend of style, quality, and functionality. For more information, visit groupehomesociete.ca . ABOUT MUST SOCIETE MUST Societe is a leading Canadian home furnishing brand known for its modern, fashion-forward aesthetic and curated selection of elevated, design-driven pieces. As part of the Home Societe Group, MUST offers a refined shopping experience across its multi-brand showrooms in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, and Quebec City. From statement furniture to timeless essentials, MUST blends contemporary style with everyday comfort, creating spaces that feel as good as they look. Discover more at mustsociete.com . SOURCE Home Societe Group Media Contact: Kiesha Telesforo, Account Manager, Sundae Creative, [email protected], (647) 962-3545 A bold campaign has launched, with coffee cup sleeves sparking discussion at independent shops across the country, and well-known Canadians lending their voice. CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI, July 29, 2025 /CNW/ - As Canadians increasingly turn to online platforms for news, often filtered through personalized algorithms, the need for spaces that promote diverse, inclusive, and constructive conversations has never been greater. In these unprecedented times, the Confederation Centre, based in Charlottetown, PEI, is growing as a national convening place for important issues, conferences, forums, and programs that allow Canadians to explore and address critical issues of today and tomorrow. John & Sam had their say. Now have yours, John & Sam reads one of the campaign posters. Its a challenge, a provocation, and a promise to Canadians; that the Confederation Centre is a destination for all Canadians to have meaningful conversations on important issues. (CNW Group/Confederation Centre of the Arts) To showcase their impact to all Canadians, the Confederation Centre has developed a bold new campaign inspired by "Where Canada Connects" that launched last year. This initiative invites Canadians to come together to shape our future, through dialogue, debate, and shared understanding from the past. "John & Sam had their say. Now have yours, John & Sam" reads one of the campaign posters. It's a challenge, a provocation, and a promise to Canadians; that the Confederation Centre is a destination for all Canadians to have meaningful conversations on important issues. "We've been asking Canadians from across the country to tell us what issues matter most to them," said Steve Bellamy, CEO of Confederation Centre. "This campaign is about bringing people together in the room or online to talk about those things, to listen to one another, and to lead the way for making a better Canada." In 1864, thirty-six delegates gathered in Charlottetown to begin the work of building a nation. Today, the Confederation Centre honours that legacy by providing a national convening space for thought-provoking discourse, bringing together voices that weren't at the table 161 years ago to support this country. Coffee cup sleeves will be distributed in independent local cafes from coast to coast to spark discussion, along with digital and print assets in major Canadian media. Wild postings will encourage Canadians to use their voice to continue the conversation the Founders of Canada started along with the goal of raising donations to support the expansion of arts education activities and develop new Canadian work. The campaign also features an esteemed group of national voices helping to elevate its message, including Alan Doyle who is lending his support as a spokesperson for the initiative. The organization has tapped indie agency FUSE Create to launch this national awareness campaign that includes print, OLV, and media all to showcase how the Confederation Centre supports our country. About Confederation Centre of the Arts Located in historic Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Confederation Centre of the Arts explores the origins and evolution of Canada through world-class art exhibitions, original theatrical productions, and interactive learning experiences. More than a centre of the arts, Confederation Centre is a cultural convenor, a forum for dialogue on where our nation is heading, and a national stage for thriving artistic expression. It's more than a venue. It's where Canada connects. SOURCE Confederation Centre of the Arts For more information or to request an interview, please contact Vanessa Francone ([email protected]). Staff members are on duty at an emergency headquarters in Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) Emergency workers are on duty at Xiaying Village of Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) Staff members prepare food and water at a school-turned relocation site in Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) People make bed at a school-turned relocation site in Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) Volunteers deliver disaster relief supplies at a school-turned relocation site in Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) An aerial drone photo taken on July 28, 2025 shows a road and a bridge affected by flood at Xiaying Village of Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) A resident clears silt at Xiaying Village of Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) An aerial drone photo taken on July 28, 2025 shows a road and a bridge affected by flood at Xiaying Village of Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin. Houses, bridges and power lines at part of villages in Jizhou District were damaged by floods inflicted by recent heavy rainfall and upstream runoff. Local emergency operations including search and rescue, evacuee transfer, and disaster relief are orderly going on. (Xinhua/Li Ran) Editor: GSY Photo taken on July 27, 2025 shows a staff member from China Post Group's Handan Branch displaying the newly released special stamps titled World Cultural Heritage-Beijing Central Axis. The set includes designs of Yongdingmen, Zhengyangmen, Tian'anmen, the Forbidden City & Jingshan, and the Bell and Drum Towers, with a total face value of 5.50 yuan. (Hao Qunying/Guangming Picture) Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author's, GMW.cn makes no representations as to accuracy, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information. As city neon lights have long become commonplace, rural nights are being redefined. Now, nighttime tourism projects are flourishing across the countrysidefrom starlit pastoral walks to ancient village light shows, from bustling night markets to lively folk performances. Rural "night economy" is lighting up urban and rural life with unique charm. This boom is not just an extension of consumer scenes but a rediscovery of rural value. It awakens idle rural resources under the night sky and provides a vivid platform for expressing local culture. Amid twinkling lights lies a new path for rural revitalization. When night tourism becomes an emotional bridge connecting city and countryside, rural nights no longer remain silent but are filled with development momentum and the poetry of life. Photo taken on the evening of July 18, 2025 shows visitors flocking to the "Golden Dragon" parade by Yulong Bridge in Baisha Town, Yangshuo County, Guilin City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The vibrant night event draws many tourists to experience the charm of Yulong River under colorful lights. (Xia Lihui/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on July 21, 2025 captures the bustling and brightly lit stone-paved streets of Suixi Old Town, Huaibei, east China's Anhui Province at night. Crowds fill the lively night market scene. (Zhou Fangling/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows people enjoying gourmet food, performances, and night views at Ant Market in Jimo District, Qingdao City, east China's Shandong Province, embracing a rich and diverse nightlife. (Liang Xiaopeng/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on July 22, 2025 depicts tourists cruising the Xin'an River on the "Huangshan-Anxiang" boat along Tunxi River Street, Huangshan City, east China's Anhui Province, experiencing scenic night views. (Shi Yalei/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on July 23, 2025 features visitors at Sai Shang Old Street tourism and leisure area in Yuquan District, Hohhot City, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, enjoying ethnic-style photo shoots. (Ding Genhou/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows police and auxiliary officers on duty at the Tower Bay Xingshun Night Market in Huanggu District, Shenyang City, northeast China's Liaoning Province, ensuring public safety. (Zou Xinjiang/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on July 25, 2025 captures visitors watching a starlit concert in the cultural and leisure street district of Guanjiagang, ancient city of Xiangyang, north China's Hubei Province. (Yang Dong/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on the evening of July 25, 2025 shows tourists visiting the vibrant Dunhuang Night Market in northwest China's Gansu Province. (Zhang Xiaoliang/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on the evening of July 25, 2025 features the bustling opening night of the Yangming Road Standard Clock Night Market in Ganzhou City, east China's Jiangxi Province, attracting a large crowd of residents. (Liao Peiyu/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on July 26, 2025 shows tourists admiring lanterns at Zhaoti Scenic Area, Anlong County, Qianxinan Prefecture, southwest China's Guizhou Province, highlighting the thriving nighttime economy. (Liu Chaofu/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on July 25, 2025 depicts continuous visitors enjoying the cool summer breeze at Elephant Trunk Hill Scenic Area, Guilin City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (Li Jieyuan/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on July 26, 2025 captures the brightly lit Hu Mei Countryside Scenic Area in Renshan Village, Shanglingqiao Town, Lengshuitan District, Yongzhou City, central China's Hunan Province, where crowds gather for nighttime enjoyment. (Lei Zhongxiang/Guangming Picture) Photo taken on July 26, 2025 shows the spectacular summer cultural tourism event at Xiangyun Bay Scenic Area, Yunmeng County, central China's Hubei Province, where over 15,000 visitors enjoy a midsummer night festival under dazzling lights and shadows. (Chen Baozhong/Guangming Picture) Editor: WXY HOHHOT, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The late afternoon light filtered through the birch trees, gilding their pale trunks. Nearby, Zhang Zifu paused, his brush hovering over a half-finished painting. "We oil painters all adore Enhe," said Zhang. "There's nothing else like its unique folkways, its traditional Russian-style wooden houses, the way the grasslands meet the birch forests here." Enhe, located in the northeastern corner of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in the north of China, is China's only Russian ethnic township that has for years drawn travelers seeking its inspiring blend of Chinese-Russian culture, hearty cuisine and sweeping natural vistas. But lately, a new kind of visitor has emerged -- artists like Zhang, who are drawn not just by the views, but the chance to turn them into art. "This environment fills us with romance, with imagination," said Ma Weihong, another painter in Zhang's group. The art tour trend started to pick up pace in 2017, when Enhe converted its cultural center into an "oil painting sketch base," a hub for artists to work and teach. To date, it has hosted more than 4,000 students and faculty members from art academies across China. In 2022, the township trademarked the name "Enhe Oil Painting Town," cementing its reputation as a destination for artistic creativity. "Centered on oil painting, we've expanded into sketching services, exhibitions, education and derivative products," says Qin Kai, deputy head of Enhe's township government, adding that the occupancy rates at local homestays have jumped accordingly. This year, the township added another layer to its artistic infrastructure -- the Enhe oil painting sketch service station. Tucked beside the oil painting sketch base, this station is part gallery, showcasing works by local and visiting artists, along with cultural and creative products, and part logistics hub -- offering meals, lodging, car rentals and even art supplies. "Letting us handle these details saves artists time and energy, so they can focus on teaching students and creating," says Gao Chengyu, who manages the station. For Zhang, who was visiting Enhe for the third time, the station has served as a source of great relief. Thanks to government-backed partnerships between the station and local families, Zhang managed to find a Russian-style homestay run by villagers at a subsidized rate -- a boon for artists and a windfall for residents. "The station is wonderful," Zhang said, noting that he no longer has to scramble for lodging. More importantly, he's been able to immerse himself in village life, and has been warmly welcomed by locals. Gao, notably, sees the station as more than a convenience. "We want to spread Enhe's name far and wide," he said. "To let more people know that this place exists." Business is already picking up. On Aug. 15, Gao will host over 200 students and teachers from Communication University of China for a study trip. "They need 200 small stools, and I've been scrambling to prepare." Enditem (Gao Yunqian, Ji Jingnan, Lyu Yilin, Ma Ruilin, Su Yushi, Wang Jingru and Wang Yan also contributed to the story.) Editor: WXY Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha has held a conversation with Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky. "A good conversation with my colleague and friend Jan Lipavsky on important aspects of our bilateral cooperation. I informed him about the intensification of Russian terror and stressed the urgent need to strengthen Ukraine's air defense potential to protect peaceful Ukrainian cities," Sybiha said on the X social network following the conversation. He thanked the Czech Republic for its support for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. "I also confirmed Ukraine's commitment to continuing reforms and fighting corruption on the path to full EU membership. This is our national interest and priority," he said. He invited Lipavsky to visit Kyiv and other cities in Ukraine to strengthen our political dialogue and expand Czech investments, diplomatic activities and reconstruction efforts. The Security Service of Ukraine prevented the contract killing of commander of the 108th separate battalion of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Da Vinci Wolves Serhiy Filimonov: the FSB was preparing an assassination attempt on him, the SBU reports. On the Telegram channel on Tuesday, the Ukrainian special service informed that the Russian special service recruited a resident of Dnipropetrovsk region under the guise of working for the SBU to commit the crime. The department explains that agent operations "under a foreign flag" are a fairly new tactic for the Russian special service. "During recruitment interviews, FSB representatives pose as employees of the Security Service and assign tasks to agents allegedly in the interests of Ukraine," the report states. "This is exactly the kind of trick the ATO participant from Kamianske fell for. He was convinced that he had to neutralize a correctional officer working for the Russian Federation on behalf of the SBU, not a Ukrainian military commander," the special service informs. As the investigation established, the man received a call on one of the social networks from a representative of the Russian special service, who posed as an employee of the Security Service of Ukraine. "During the conversation, she reported that the online store where the defendant had previously ordered medical drugs allegedly finances the Russian troops. She used this fabricated information to accuse the Ukrainian of high treason and reported that a criminal case had allegedly been opened against him," the report states. According to the Ukrainian special services, in order to increase psychological pressure, FSB representatives sent the man a fake summons to the SBU for questioning. After that, as the SBU explains, he was offered ostensibly to "cooperate" with the Service in exchange for the closure of the criminal case. For this, the defendant was sent a questionnaire for admission to the SBU and was instructed to come to Kyiv. "FSB handlers manipulated the patriotic beliefs of the Ukrainian, who sincerely believed that he was helping the Ukrainian special services fight the enemy. In correspondence with his liaison, the man expressed his readiness to destroy the occupiers - even at the cost of his own life," the agency emphasizes. According to the report, upon arrival in Kyiv, the recruit was given the task of renting an apartment in a residential complex where, according to the FSB, the Ukrainian military commander, whom they planned to eliminate, lived, and to begin tracking Serhiy Filimonov's car. "At the same time, the FSB officer presented the Ukrainian soldier as a traitor who was allegedly correcting strikes on Kyiv. After one of the massive missile strikes on the capital, the supervisor convinced the defendant that the object he was monitoring was responsible for this," the report says. The recruit regularly sent the supervisor photo reports on visual surveillance: photos from the yard of the house and a description of the soldier's movements. "Later, the FSB supervisor gave the defendant the coordinates of a cache on the outskirts of Kyiv, where automatic weapons were hidden. After receiving the Kalashnikov assault rifle, the man continued the surveillance, and later received an order to eliminate the Ukrainian soldier," the Ukrainian special service reports. SBU operatives detained the recruit when he went out into the street with a loaded weapon. During the search, the mobile phone from which the defendant corresponded with the FSB supervisor was seized. Under the procedural guidance of the Prosecutor General's Office, the detainee was informed of suspicion under Article 263 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine - illegal possession of weapons and ammunition. "The SBU emphasizes! Representatives of the Security Service do not hire people by phone, do not offer to perform illegal actions and do not set dubious tasks. The SBU acts exclusively within the framework of the current legislation of Ukraine. In case of receiving a suspicious summons or contacts with unknown persons who present themselves as SBU employees, immediately report this to the SBU hotline 0 800 501 482 or to the chat bot Spaly FSB t.me/spaly_fsb_bot," the message states. Piper Perabo tried to resist. But as everyone knows, you cant fight the moonlight. There has been much talk about a Coyote Ugly sequel over the years, but The Hollywood Reporter wanted to know could another film still happen? There has been some discussion about that, Perabo cautiously answered (see clip below). Some things ... are being discussed. The New Jersey actor, who grew up in Toms River, famously starred in Coyote Ugly as Violet Jersey Sanford, an aspiring songwriter from South Amboy who is hired at New Yorks raucous Coyote Ugly Saloon, where bartenders dance on top of the bar. The role was her big Hollywood breakout, and the movie grossed more than $113 million worldwide. Perabo carefully fielded the sequel question at San Diego Comic-Con as the movie approaches the 25th anniversary of its Aug. 4, 2000 release. Um, I cant really say, but, um, people that were doing it are talking about some ... stuff, the actor said, keeping her stilted responses vague. Theres a lot of cooks in the kitchen right now, but things are moving around, she said with a slight smirk. While Perabo would not say if there was a working script, she did say that people that were integral to making it (the original film) are in communication about how to do something more. She starred alongside Maria Bello, Adam Garcia, Melanie Lynskey, John Goodman, Tyra Banks, Bridget Moynahan, LeAnn Rimes and more in Coyote Ugly. Maria Bello and Piper Perabo in "Coyote Ugly." Touchstone Pictures/Buena Vista Pictures The movie was based on the 1997 GQ article The Muse of the Coyote Ugly Saloon by Eat, Pray, Love author Elizabeth Gilbert, who worked there as a bartender and used to live in Frenchtown. Liliana Lovell opened the first Coyote Ugly, which became a franchise of bars (Bello plays her in the movie). Perabo, 48, a graduate of Toms River High School North, was at Comic-Con with her co-star and producer Daniel Dae Kim to promote their new Amazon spy thriller series Butterfly, which premieres Aug. 13. She embraces playing a villain in the show. Perabo previously starred in the USA Network spy series Covert Affairs and appeared in Billions on Showtime, Yellowstone on Paramount and Turn Up Charlie on Netflix. Her film credits include the Cheaper by the Dozen movies (2003, 2005), Imagine Me & You (2005), The Prestige (2006), Looper (2012) and Angel Has Fallen (2019). The actor has been politically active both in New Jersey and on a national scale. In 2018, Perabo was arrested for civil disobedience for participating in a protest at the confirmation hearing of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. The next month, she canvassed door-to-door in support of the election of current U.S. Sen. Andy Kim to the House of Representatives. In 2019, she rallied in Trenton for the restoration of millions of dollars to Toms River schools, without which the schools would struggle to cover extracurricular activities. Thank you for reading. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Amy Kuperinsky may be reached at akuperinsky@njadvancemedia.com and followed at @AmyKup on Twitter/X, @amykup.bsky.social on Bluesky and @kupamy on Instagram and Threads. The T. rex at Field Station: Dinosaurs in Leonia. Soon, all of the park's prehistoric giants will be making an exodus from the Bergen County attraction. Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance M The hulking robotic creatures that inhabit Field Station: Dinosaurs are all set to pack it in. North Jerseys dinosaur park is headed for extinction later this year. But not before the attraction appears on the new reality series The Fixer. The Fox show is headed up by entrepreneur and TV host Marcus Lemonis from CNBCs The Profit. Lemonis, CEO of Camping World, ministers to struggling businesses on the show, deploying his three Ps: people, process and product. Field Station: Dinosaurs, located at Overpeck County Park in Leonia, was, like many businesses, affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. And even though the park doubled down on education programming, which drew many school groups, the business could not sustain its post-lockdown comeback. This is a pivotal moment for Field Station: Dinosaurs, said Guy Gsell, founder of Field Station, in a statement. Weve been a place of wonder and learning for families for 15 years, and while this is our final season here in Bergen County, the insights and recommendations from The Fixer may spark new life for our prehistoric adventure in another form. Another form like, an evolution? Entrepreneur and CEO Marcus Lemonis visits Field Station: Dinosaurs in an upcoming episode of "The Fixer." Derek White | Getty Images The episode is set to air Friday on Fox and will be streaming on Hulu Saturday. Gsell opened the first iteration of Field Station: Dinosaurs in Secaucus Laurel Hill Park in 2012. There, visitors could exit the Jersey Turnpike to find robotic dinosaurs nestled among the existing foliage. The effect gave the time-traveling park a natural look. In 2015, a few seasons into the parks operations, the attraction was forced to close. Hudson County officials told park management that even though the park had two more years on its lease, it had to make way for the construction of a new building for High Tech High School, formerly located in North Bergen (the new school building opened in 2018). The dinosaurs, with all of their steel bones and foam flesh, went into storage until a new park location could be found. In 2016, Field Station announced it would be moving to Bergen County, to the open grass at the Henry Hoebel Area of Overpeck County Park in Leonia more field, less foliage. Park founder Guy Gsell at the opening of Field Station: Dinosaurs in 2012, when the park was located in Secaucus. The attraction moved to Bergen County in 2016. Chris Monroe | For The Star-Ledger The same year, the park announced it was expanding by opening another location in Derby, Kansas, outside Wichita. That location is still in operation. The Fixer apparently spent months analyzing the New Jersey dinosaur parks business model. If you raise $25,000, Ill match it, Lemonis tells Gsell in a clip from the upcoming episode of the show. Is that something that youre open to? he asks the park founder. Yeah, thats gonna grow our revenue and were gonna need that, Gsell replies. I just want the park to be there, Lemonis says. Cause your heart would be broken if it wasnt, and so would a million kids. Field Station: Dinosaurs opened for the 2025 season in May. Scenic artist Shana Siegel paints the pachycephalosaurus at Field Station in 2022. Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance M Now that its definitely set to close, locals are invited to stop by for one last roar before the parks final season ends in early November. The Field Station episode of The Fixer is set to air 8 p.m. ET Friday, Aug. 1 on Fox and streams the next day on Hulu. Field Station is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. until Aug. 31. The fall schedule is Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 6 through Nov. 9; Labor Day (Sept. 1) and Indigenous Peoples Day/Columbus Day (Oct. 13); also Thursday, Nov. 6 and Friday, Nov. 7; visit jerseydinos.com for tickets and more information. Thank you for reading. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Amy Kuperinsky may be reached at akuperinsky@njadvancemedia.com and followed at @AmyKup on Twitter/X, @amykup.bsky.social on Bluesky and @kupamy on Instagram and Threads. A New Jersey man with a history of dealing drugs has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for selling fentanyl, heroin and cocaine out of an apartment in East Orange. Ibraheem Muhammad, 41, of East Orange, will also be on supervised release for three years, the U.S. Attorneys Office for New Jersey said Monday. Muhammad was arrested in May 2022 after detectives saw him leave the apartment and sell drugs. Investigators searched the apartment and found a stash of drugs, $14,000 in cash, a loaded Girsan 9mm semi-automatic handgun and other ammunition in addition to drug paraphernalia. Muhammad pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Formerly known as Abraham Smith, Muhammad was convicted of selling drugs in Essex County in May. He has drug charges dating to 2017, according to state court records. Muhammad was sentenced Thursday. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Police blocked the area around the July 28, 2025 standoff incident, including here at Barbara Hillman Way and Ridgewood Avenue, a block away. (Photo by Steve Strunsky | NJ.com) An attempted murder suspect was shot by police in Newark Monday after following an hours-long standoff in which he fired at police from a home, investigators said. Members of the U.S. Marshals Service were in the city assisting Newark police officers with executing an arrest warrant for the man, who was wanted for attempted murder and other criminal charges out of Hillside in Union County, officials said. The suspect fugitive man was not identified Tuesday. On Monday afternoon, police encountered the man inside a home on Irvine Turner Boulevard in the area of West Bigelow Street in the city and he began firing at them, according to a statement from the New Jersey Attorney Generals Office which is investigating the incident. Officers returned fire and the man was struck and wounded, the office said. He was taken to University Hospital in Newark for treatment. His condition was unknown Tuesday afternoon. The incident began at about 11 a.m. and ended about 3 p.m. Monday. The AGs office did not say when the gunfire occurred during the incident. The office also did not identify the agency that wounded the suspect. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka told reporters at the scene on Monday that officers also safely rescued a baby from the residence with the use of a bullet-proof shield. I do know that he did have a baby, Baraka told reporters. Police retrieved the baby from his custody. During a search of the residence, police recovered a rifle and a handgun, the office said. No other details were released Tuesday as the office was still investigating the shooting. Under state law, the attorney generals office is required to investigate all police-involved shootings. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Police are searching for two men who assaulted and robbed a New Jersey couple at gunpoint as they returned home from Philadelphia Sunday night. Police said they were followed. The attack happened at a home on Eton Drive in the Crofton Run development of Washington Township in Gloucester County, township police said in a statement on Monday. A 911 call summoned police to the scene at 11:33 p.m. The suspects, who were both wearing dark clothing and masks, approached a man and his fiance as they were exiting his Mercedes-Benz in the driveway of a home. Theyd been at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Philadelphia, police said. One of the robbers struck the man in head with a gun, demanding his Rolex watch and wallet. The other held the woman at gunpoint while ordering her to remain silent, police said. The male victim suffered injuries to the head and elbow, but declined medical treatment. The suspects then fled on foot towards Jospeh Drive with both the wallet and watch, authorities said. Surveillance footage captured them entering a waiting getaway car at the intersection of Eton and Joseph drives. The vehicle fled the area towards Fries Mill Road. The robbery was also caught on multiple residential surveillance cameras, police said. A analysis of license plate readers found that the suspect vehicle was following the victims since at least 11:20 p.m., when their Mercedes-Benz was on Route 42 and entering Washington Township, investigators said. The suspect vehicle had a paper license plate with a number that is not on file, according to police. Detectives were in Philadelphia Monday investigating, police said. Anyone with tips to call detectives Lou DiAmbrosio or Matt Barnett at 856-589-0330. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. The owner of a Morris County massage business has been arrested and charged with promoting prostitution at his place of business on Route 46, authorities said Tuesday. Bumsuk Lee, 67, of Flushing, New York, operated an illicit shop called New Paradise Spa, located on Route 46 in the Kenvil neighborhood of Roxbury Township, the Morris County Prosecutors Office said. The shop generated an income from sexual acts performed by various employees, the prosecutors office said. Less is charged with second-degree money laundering and third-degree promoting prostitution. A 43-year-old woman is charged with engaging in prostitution at the business, a disorderly persons offense. The New York Police Department arrested Lee on July 24 during the execution of a search warrant of his business and residence in Flushing, in Queens. Lee is currently incarcerated at Rikers Island jail in New York City pending extradition to New Jersey. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism you rely on and trust. The charges against the Edison police officers were meant to send a message. Cops accused of falsifying off-duty work to add tens of thousands of dollars to their pay checks would face serious consequences, Middlesex County prosecutors announced in 2018. Photo: https://www.facebook.com/berezhna.tetyana Acting Minister of Culture and Strategic Communications Tetiana Berezhna states that development of culture is an element of national security, and that without culture there is no strong state. "Today I say goodbye to the post of Deputy Minister of Economy. And I am starting a new job - the government has appointed me temporarily acting Minister of Culture and Strategic Communications. This is a different area and a new responsibility. But the essence remains the same - to serve the people and the country," Berezhna wrote on Facebook. She stated that without culture there is no strong state, that culture unites people in society and gives strength for resistance. "The development of culture is an element of national security. And I know how to work with politicians, institutions, communities to create solutions that change. I believe in partnership, in dialogue, in the power of independent institutions. And in the fact that there is a lot of important work ahead," Berezhna wrote. As reported, on July 17, the Verkhovna Rada, based on the proposal of newly appointed Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, approved the new composition of the Ukrainian government. At the same time, the Rada did not appoint a new Minister of Culture, because, as David Arakhamia, the head of the ruling Servant of the People faction, previously noted, consultations on the candidates are still ongoing. On July 28, the Cabinet of Ministers appointed Tetiana Berezhna Acting Minister of Culture and Strategic Communications. A onetime aide to former Gov. Chris Christie pleaded guilty on Monday to first-degree endangering the welfare of a child after police found images of child sexual abuse material on his personal devices, authorities said. Kevin Tomafsky, 43, of Washington Township, was arrested in 2022 after police used a search warrant to enter his residence and discovered devices that contained images of child sexual abuse and exploitation. Further investigation found Tomafsky caused some of those images to be made and transmitted to him via the internet, according to the Gloucester County Prosecutors Office. Tomafsky accepted a plea deal that will require him to serve 10 years in prison. He will have to serve five years before being eligible for parole, authorities said. The plea deal also required Tomafsky to be placed on parole supervision for life and register under Megans Law upon his release from prison. Tomafsky worked in the governors office from 2010 to 2012. His sentencing date is scheduled for Sept. 12. Editors note: The headline has been updated to reflect that Tamofsky pleaded guilty. Sentencing is scheduled for September. A protester holds a sign as visitors arrive at the beach in the Ocean Grove section of Neptune, New Jersey, in 2023. Alexandra Pais | For NJ Advance Media This story has been updated with a response from the New Jersey attorney generals office. Restrictions stopping Sunday morning beach access from the boardwalk could be returning to Ocean Grove, more than two years after state officials ordered an end to the 155-year-old tradition. An administrative court judge has sided with the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, which owns the land in the Ocean Grove section in Neptune, including the boardwalk by its Monmouth County beach. The association cited religious freedom and its origins as a Methodist community retreat in challenging a September 2023 order, from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, to stop using chains and padlocked barriers blocking beach access from the boardwalk or risk fines of up to $25,000 per day. It opened up the beach on Sunday mornings in May 2024 as the appeal was underway. The restriction had been in place between the Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. The ruling by Tricia M. Caliguire, an administrative law judge, is not necessarily the final say on the matter. It is subject to a review by state Department of Environmental Protection commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette, who may adopt, modify or reject the decision, as noted in the ruling. The state filed a response July 18 that raised multiple objections to the judges decision and asked LaTourette to overrule it. Caliguire, though, found that the association, referred to as OGCMA in her ruling, is within its rights to restrict beach access on Sunday mornings from the boardwalk. The Department of Environmental Protection, in issuing a violation notice more than two years ago, said the restriction ran afoul of the states Coastal Area Facility Review Act. However, the judges ruling noted that those seeking to visit the beach had the option of arriving via the adjoining beaches even when the nine access points from the Ocean Grove boardwalk onto the beach were closed off. The public access doctrine as applied here by the NJDEP would impact the OGCMAs religious practices, but not because the OGCMA uses the beach to hold religious services or because the people on the beach are disruptive, Caliguire wrote in her decision, which was reached June 26 and posted Tuesday by the Asbury Park Press. It is because the OGCMA seeks to spread its message of the sanctity of Sunday by keeping everyone from using the beach on Summer Sunday mornings. The closed beach is an outward expression one that is very visible and even provocative of their faith and belief, and the NJDEP is effectively telling the OGCMA that it cannot use its own property in that manner, Caliguire wrote. A since-removed sign informing visitors of the beach access restriction in the Ocean Grove section of Neptune, New Jersey, as seen in 2023. Alexandra Pais | For NJ Advance Media LaTourette, has 45 days from the June 26 ruling to make a decision. If he does not take any action, the judges ruling will become final. A spokesperson for the Department of Environmental Protection referred a request for comment Tuesday to the state attorney generals office, which filed the July 18 response urging LaTourette to reject the decision and stand by the original order. Ocean Groves decision to prohibit public access and use from 9:00 a.m. to noon every single Sunday to a half mile of dry sand beach during peak summer season stripping the public of significant access rights during the time of the greatest demand is unreasonable as far as the public is concerned," the attorney generals office stated in a 17-page response provided Tuesday to NJ Advance Media. The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The judges ruling is the latest twist in a larger debate over the influence of religion in public spaces in the Ocean Grove section of Neptune. Critics of the Sunday beach access restriction separately took issue with the associations decision to build a $2 million pier in the shape of a Christian cross that opened in April 2023. The pier was closed in December 2023 amid structural concerns but has since partially reopened. Caliguire, in her ruling, questioned why it took so many years for the state to raise an objection to the Sunday morning beach access restriction, which was widely known. Many of the forty-four New Jersey beach towns have distinct characteristics, and Ocean Grove is one of them, the judge wrote. The judge wrote that the Department of Environmental Protection did not cite any compliance issues with public access requirements in approving the associations permit applications as recently as 2022. The OGCMAs mission to operate a seasonal Christian resort and the attendant Sunday beach closings (which began in 1869) was open and notorious and the record includes no explanation as to why previous NJDEP personnel were not aware of and/or did not take enforcement action against the Summer Sunday closings given the numerous times that the NJDEP was involved with permits related to the Ocean Grove beach, the judge wrote. The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association leases land on a long-term basis to homeowners and businesses and also sells leases, for 114 tents and 20 cottages, for use during the summer season, the judge wrote. Ocean Grove was governed by the association as a religious enclave for a century until the New Jersey Supreme Court declared its original charter unconstitutional after a series of lawsuits. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism you rely on and trust. Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com. FILE - Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, questions the witnesses during a House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency hearing on Capitol Hill, Feb. 12, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr., File) AP Andrew Kaczynski, a CNN senior politics reporter, pointed out Tuesday that a Democratic lawmaker lied about comments related to Texas Gov. Texas Abbott earlier this year. While delivering remarks at the Human Rights Campaigns dinner in Los Angeles, California, in March, Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) appeared to reference Abbotts use of a wheelchair. Abbott became paralyzed below the waist, at 26 years old, after an oak tree fell on his back while he went for a run in 1984. We in these hot a-- Texas streets, honey, Crockett said. Yall know we got Governor Hot Wheels down there, come on now! And the only thing hot about him is that he is a hot a-- mess, honey! she continued.While promoting her new profile of Crockett on X, Elaine Godfrey, a staff writer for The Atlantic, said that she had asked the congresswoman about whether she had regrets about her public comments as she has emerged as a vocal critic of President Donald Trump and the Republican Party. I dont second-guess shit, Crockett replied while raising her eyebrows. Kaczynski, however, noted otherwise, writing that it is worth noting she also lied about this. After facing mounting condemnation for her comments, with a Texas Republican colleague threatening to censure her, Crockett did not apologize, instead claiming that she wasnt thinking about the governors condition when she was speaking. I was thinking about the planes, trains, and automobiles he used to transfer migrants into communities led by Black mayors, deliberately stoking tension and fear among the most vulnerable, Crockett said on X. Literally, the next line I said was that he was a Hot A** Mess, referencing his terrible policies. At no point did I mention or allude to his condition, she added. Kaczynski pushed back on Crocketts remarks: She said the comment was about migrant busing and not about him being in a wheelchair. Even though she used the same joke years before any busing occurred. Mediaite previously reported on several instances that Crockett had seemingly mocked Abbotts disability before the specific incident. In 2022, Crockett had weighed in on the gubernatorial race between Abbott and Beto ORourke. The new nickname I have for @BetoORourke is the king of the clap backs! she wrote on X. Beto is rolling all around the state where is Abbott rolling to ?The Washington Free Beacon also claimed that Crockett had liked several Facebook comments referring to Abbott as Hot Wheels in 2021. Godfrey noted that Crockett had expressed frustration with her after she had reached out to her House colleagues for comment. She was, she told me, shutting down the profile and revoking all permissions, Godfrey wrote in her story. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. President Donald Trump waves as he boards Air Force One, Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at Royal Air Force Lossiemouth en route to return to Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) AP President Donald Trump on Tuesday expanded on his new explanation for why he had a falling out with late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. While speaking to reporters on Monday, Trump clarified why he decided to terminate Epsteins membership at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida around two decades ago. He did something that was inappropriate, Trump said, describing the incident with Epstein as such old history. He hired help, and I said dont ever do that again. He stole people that worked for me. I said dont ever do that again. He did it again, and I threw him out of the place, he continued. While on Air Force One on Tuesday, an NBC News reporter pressed Trump on his answer, pointing to how aides have previously claimed that the convicted sex offender was barred for being a creep. Theyre the same thing. You know, sort of a little bit of the same thing, Trump said. But no, he took people that worked for me, and I told him Dont do it anymore, and he did it. And I said Stay the hell out of here, he continued. Q: You said yesterday your falling out with Epstein was over him taking some of the workers from your business, but your administration in the past said you threw him out because he was a creep. Can you explain that discrepancy? TRUMP: It's the same thing. NBC fake news. What pic.twitter.com/eQZHF39Zcy Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 29, 2025 The reporter then asked if that is what his administration previously meant by the word creep. NBC? NBC, fake news. NBCs one of the worst. What else do you have? Trump shot back, dismissing the question. A different reporter asked if some of the workers reportedly taken were young women. I dont want to say, but... everyone knows the people that were taken, and... it was, the concept of taking people that work for me is bad. But that storys been pretty well out there. And the answer is yes, they were, Trump said. In the spa. People that work in the spa. I have a great spa. One of the best spas in the world at Mar-a-Lago, and people were taken out of the spa, hired by him. In other words, gone, he added. Trump then went on to say that he believes Virginia Giuffre, one of Epsteins most prominent survivors who committed suicide earlier this year, was one of the women. He stole her. And by the way, she had no complaints about us, as you know, Trump said. Trump: People were taken out of the spa, hired by Epstein I told him we dont want you taking our people, whether its spa or not spa. He did it again, I said out of here. Reporter: Was one of the stolen people Virginia Giuffre? Trump: I think so. He stole her. pic.twitter.com/sLoDdKNasn Acyn (@Acyn) July 29, 2025 Trumps remarks were met with immediate mockery on social media with some users questioning whether the president knew of Epsteins criminal activity at the time. Thats the ballgame, right, folks? one user posted on X. Another user said: Contradicting past statements and if true the actual reason was so petty and absurd while ignoring all the rest of what Epstein was obviously doing in front of his face or worse. His brain is complete mush. A different user wrote that Trump had forgot the lie and accidentally told the truth. Trumps new story is that he fell out with Jeffrey Epstein because Trumps most valued employees preferred to go work for a notorious sex offender rather than stay with Trump, David Frum, a staff writer at The Atlantic, added. Someone said, So this continues to be extremely weird. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) also weighed in: Trump was cool with the sex-trafficking. NOT cool with the employee-poaching. Got it! Given this new comment, it seems highly likely that Trump knew what Epstein was doing, Dan Pfeiffer, a co-host of the podcast Pod Save America, wrote. The Epstein fiasco erupted earlier this month after the Justice Department and FBI concluded in a memo that Epstein did not keep a client list, blackmail public figures or was murdered in his jail cell while awaiting his sex-trafficking trial. Since the release, the presidents most ardent supporters, a band of congressional Republicans and Democrats have called on his administration to make all government files related to Epstein public. But for weeks, Trump has tried to distance himself from the case, pointing to a separate conspiracy that former President Barack Obama rigged the 2016 and 2020 elections, and claiming that he no longer wants the support of those who are invested in the case. The Wall Street Journal reported last week that Trump was told in May that his name appears in the so-called Epstein files. The newspaper also previously claimed that Trump sent a bawdy letter to Epstein for his 50th birthday in 2003 which he has since repeatedly denied, and has since filed a defamation lawsuit against the Journal, its owners and the reporters who wrote the story. Trump told reporters on Monday that he is allowed to pardon Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins former girlfriend who was convicted for sex trafficking minors alongside the disgraced financier and sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2022. His comments come as Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche completed nine hours of meetings with Maxwell over the course of two days to see if any additional light could be shed on the Epstein case. While Blanche, the presidents former defense attorney, has made no public statements about his findings or about next steps in the Justice Departments investigation, Maxwell filed a Supreme Court brief on Monday, which seeks to appeal her conviction on the basis that she was unlawfully prosecuted. Maxwell also offered on Tuesday to testify before Congress if granted a pardon, according to a letter from her attorney reported by multiple outlets. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. A passenger in a car who fired a shot at a man walking outside a Somerset County business where other patrons were present was arrested last month, authorities announced Monday. Naseem Eure, 20, of Plainfield was charged with first-degree attempted murder, third-degree endangering another person and two weapons-related offenses, according to a statement from the Somerset County Prosecutors Office. At 9:39 p.m. on March 17, Watchung Police officers responded to a 911 call reporting gunshots at an unidentified business located on Route 22 West in the borough, the office said. Officers found evidence of gunshot damage to the building and determined that Eure had opened the passenger door of a car and fired a single shot at a person walking on the sidewalk in front of the business, investigators said. There were other patrons outside of the business at the time of the shooting but neither they nor the pedestrian were injured, officials said. Eure was arrested on June 2 in Plainfield and was held in the Somerset County Jail pending the results of a detention hearing, the office said. Anyone with additional information was asked to contact the Somerset County Prosecutors Office Major Crimes Unit at 908-231-7100 or the Watchung Borough Police Department at 908-756-3663. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Maryrose Fealey, the Somerville woman who was stabbed to death outside her apartment in January 2024. The man charged with her murder, David C. Shroitman, was recently declared mentally incompetent to sand trial. Courtesy of Janet Pizzelli A Superior Court judge on Monday let stand his initial ruling that defendant David C. Shroitman is mentally unfit to stand trial for the murder of Somerville anti-drug activist Maryrose Fealey. Judge Peter J. Tober rejected a motion for reconsideration by the Somerset County Prosecutors Office, which argued that Shroitman was well enough to participate in his own defense, despite suffering delusions from schizophrenia. The judge stood by his original decision, which was based on two of three psychiatrists who previously examined Shroitman and found him him unfit to stand trial. Shroitman, who is being held in the Morris County Jail, is to be committed indefinitely to the Ann Klein Forensic Center in Trenton when a bed becomes available. In an opinion issued on Monday, Tober said the prosecutions motion for reconsideration failed to convince that his initial decision was palpably incorrect or irrational or ignored the significance of probative, competent evidence. David C. Shroitman enters the Somerset County Courthouse in Somerville for a detention hearing on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024. Shroitman is accused of killing anti-drug crusader Maryrose Fealey. (Alexander Lewis / My Central Jersey) Alexander Lewis / My Central Jersey Three psychiatrists evaluated Shroitman following his indictment for murder and other charges. All three determined that Shroitman suffered from delusions, but two of three found his illness was too severe to put him on trial for murder. Tober accepted those findings in April, when he determined Shroitman should be committed indefinitely to the forensic fenter. The decision outraged Fealeys family and friends, who then waged a public campaign hoping to get the judge to revisit his decision. The slain womans father, Jim Fealey, said he he wasnt surprised by the decision, but still disappointed. He said he was losing faith in the judicial system. Theyre protecting the wrong people, he said. I believe he was competent when he did it, and hes competent now. I believe hes working the system. Somerset Assistant Prosecutor Gerard Tyrrell made that argument before Judge Tober last week, in a courtroom packed with Fealeys family and friends, most of them wearing back. Tyrrell acknowledged that Shroitman was delusional, but said there was substantial evidence that the defendant knew what he was doing on the night of the stabbing, and afterward, when he is alleged to have cleaned his car with bleach to remove the bloodstains. The Somerset prosecutors office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the judges decision. Shroitman, 28, and Fealey both graduated from Somerville High School in 2014, although the prosecution contends the two barely knew each other. Fealey graduated from Rutgers Business School in 2018, then took a job in logistics with the the U.S. Navy. She left that job to work with people recovering from addiction and had started a nonprofit, 4 The Younger Me, when she was killed. Shroitman is accused of stabbing her 37 times outside her North Bridge Street apartment on the night of Jan. 30, 2024. According to court papers, Shroitman became a suspect by word of mouth on the night of the homicide. On surveillance video, police spotted a man in a gray sweatshirt with heavily cushioned sneakers and wearing a black gaiter to cover his face. Shroitman initially refused to talk to police when they visited him at a business in Bridgewater on Feb. 2. They checked his car and noted a white garbage bag slung over the front seat and a black gaiter on the passenger side. Detectives visited him two days later at a business in Somerville, where they found him cleaning his car with bleach, the affidavit said. After obtaining a warrant, police searched Shroitmans Somerville apartment and found bloodstains in the entryway and bathroom, along with a manifesto that laid out a plan for the murder. Shroitman was arrested and charged, then indicted three months later on charges of first-degree murder, third-degree hindering apprehension or prosecution, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, and fourth-degree stalking. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.Richard Cowen may be reached at rcowen@njadvancemedia.com. Most of New Jersey will be under excessive heat warnings or heat advisories starting at 11 a.m. Tuesday and running through 8 p.m. Wednesday with 100+ degree heat indexes in the forecast. National Weather Service An extreme heat warning has been issued for five northeastern New Jersey counties and heat advisories have been issued for 12 additional counties for Tuesday and Wednesday. Heat indexes could hit up to 106 degrees Tuesday and Wednesday in some spots, the National Weather Service said. Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge, on the 10-day injured list with a right flexor strain, is eligible to be activated next Tuesday. AP NEW YORK Yankees captain Aaron Judge already is progressing toward returning from the 10-day injured list when hes first eligible after losing his campaign to keep playing with a right flexor strain. Two days after Judge went on the IL, he resumed light hitting in a batting cage before Tuesday nights Yankees-Rays game. According to updated data, 16 convicts were killed and 44 others were injured in an airstrike on the territory of Bilenke penal colony, the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine reported on Tuesday. "According to the information available at the moment, the following were significantly damaged as a result of the enemy attack: the headquarters of the institution; the quarantine station; the institution's dining room was completely destroyed. As a result of the strike, 16 convicts were killed, 44 people were injured and hospitalized in local hospitals, more than 50 victims received medical assistance on the spot," the message on Telegram says. The Ministry of Justice added that information about the victims is constantly being updated. Earlier, it was reported that 17 convicts were killed and 42 others were injured in an airstrike on the territory of the Bilenke correctional colony. It is reported that about 50 security officers of the State Penitentiary Service of Ukraine were involved in ensuring order in the institution. The perimeter of the institution was not damaged, there is no threat of escape. The ministry emphasized that the shelling of civilian infrastructure, in particular penitentiary institutions, is considered a war crime. Kondratiuk calls on participants of World Conference of Speakers of Parliaments to boycott events with Matviyenko Photo: https://www.facebook.com Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada Olena Kondratiuk called on participants of the World Conference of Speakers of Parliaments in Geneva to boycott public events with the participation of Speaker of the Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko. "I call on participants of the Conference of Speakers to boycott any public events with the participation of this international criminal - Matviyenko. Any joint photo or handshake with her means taking the side of the aggressor. And this will definitely be used by Russian propaganda to justify the crimes of the Russian Federation," Kondratiuk wrote on Facebook on Tuesday. According to Kondratiuk, she, like many other participants in the conference, believes that the Russian delegation, consisting of sanctioned individuals led by Matviyenko, has no place at the World Conference of Speakers of Parliaments. According to the Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada, it is very important to show a demarche of all democratic countries against Russia's presence at the Speakers' Summit. Kondratiuk emphasized that Matviyenko, as a person who approved Russia's armed aggression and all subsequent crimes against Ukraine, should sit on the dock of the Special International Tribunal, the creation of which was supported by Switzerland. "I am sorry that after all the resolutions of the Swiss Parliament in support of Ukraine, condemning Russia's crimes against our children - Matviyenko and a company of the same sanctioned individuals are walking around Lake Geneva, having a rostrum at a major international conference," Kondratiuk noted. She recalled that the Inter-Parliamentary Union convenes the World Conference of Speakers of Parliaments approximately once every 5 years. Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal held a conversation with his German counterpart Boris Pistorius and thanked him for his support, in particular within international coalitions and defense packages. "I spoke about the urgent needs of the Ukrainian Defense Forces until the end of the year. I also informed the minister about the Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities, about the people killed by the Russians this night," Shmyhal wrote on the Telegram channel following the conversation. In addition, the parties discussed the agreements following the results of Ramstein. Shmyhal stressed that Ukraine critically needs to strengthen its air defense, and thanked for support in the supply of Patriot systems. "This is an extremely important step that saves lives. Let's continue close cooperation to strengthen our common security," he stressed. In turn, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrsky, had a telephone conversation with the Inspector General of the Bundeswehr, General Carsten Breuer. "I spoke about the current situation in the areas of combat operations. I emphasized the importance of strengthening the protection of our cities and critical infrastructure from combined air attacks by the Russians. We discussed the key needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, in particular in air defense systems of various ranges and missiles for them, radars, etc.," Syrsky wrote on Facebook. He expressed gratitude to Germany for significant assistance in equipping the Ukrainian army with armored vehicles and artillery systems, developing integrated air defense, as well as training Ukrainian soldiers. "I am convinced that our joint work will bring concrete results important for the national interests of both countries and the security of the entire European space," says Syrsky. Four employees of the State Emergency Service (SES) were injured as a result of Russian attacks in Donetsk and Kherson regions on Tuesday, the State Emergency Service has reported. Thus, two rescuers were injured in Kostyantynivka (Donetsk region). "In Kostyantynivka in Donetsk region, a Russian UAV attacked rescuers of the local fire brigade when they were evacuating civilians from a dangerous area. Two firefighters were injured, and a service vehicle was also damaged. SES employees provided first aid to the wounded and transported them to the hospital," the SES said on Telegram on Tuesday. Two rescuers were injured in Kherson on Tuesday. "In Kherson, an enemy FPV drone hit a truck of one of the SES rescue units. Two rescuers were injured and transported to the hospital," the service reported. The State Emergency Service emphasizes that Russian invaders purposefully attacking rescuers. "The occupiers are purposefully attacking rescuers, knowing that they are the last defense for the civilian population. They are attacking those who save human lives every day," the service said. Work on the South Shore Line's West Lake Corridor continues at its south end on the structure bridging the CSX freight railroad over an extended Main Street, and with a new project near the corridor's north end on buildings at a maintenance and storage facility. "Rework" is also commencing along the length of the 9-mile line, to put in equipment needed to isolate voltage that strays from the railroad's electrical infrastructure. The equipment was not originally installed due to the contractor's oversight, according to railroad officials. That work is expected to be completed by mid-November, South Shore President Michael Noland told the railroad's Board of Trustees at its Monday meeting, and the bridge work at the Munster-Dyer Main Street Station in late September or early October. "We are still targeting an end-of-year potential completion and opening of service," Noland said. "That is a moving target we'd like to see it improved, but that's our best guess." In addition to construction work being completed, the new line, to be known as the Monon Corridor, will need to be tested and crews trained on it before revenue service starts. Meanwhile, some preliminary traffic has already run along the line, with trucks outfitted to run on rail tracks used for tours by train dispatchers, and, beginning Monday morning, South Shore diesel locomotives testing clearances along the line. Construction work at Gateway Station The new maintenance buildings will be near the Hammond Gateway Station, where the Monon Corridor will meet up with the existing line, the Lakeshore Corridor. A full maintenance yard had been planned there, but was removed from the project when initial project bids came in too high. Two buildings on the former site of a trucking company will be renovated for maintenance use, and a salt shed and storage shed will be built. The work will be done by Hasse Construction, which also built the new Miller Station for the South Shore, for $2 million, the lowest bid among four local construction companies. South Bend planning continues The Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District board also heard an update on the proposed South Bend realignment project, which would reroute the South Shore's path into South Bend International Airport and relocate its station to the west side of the terminal. An updated environmental assessment is now in the hands of the Federal Railroad Administration for its review, and discussions are ongoing with local authorities in St. Joseph County and South Bend about funding for the project. The state has budgeted $28 million for the project and NICTD $6 million. Another $12 million will need to come from public and private local sources. Then, with $56 million in state and local funding, an application would be put in for a matching amount from the federal Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements program. Noland said a funding opportunity from that program could be made available this fall. Property actions approved Also Monday, the board approved a sublease at the Beverly Shores Station through which Indiana Landmarks will take responsibility for much of the building, which includes a museum and art gallery, with the intention of securing grants for its renovation and maintenance. The South Shore will still utilize the front part of the historic structure for passenger use, will provide $5,000 annually for maintenance and will maintain insurance coverage of the structure. The land on which the building sits is owned by NIPSCO, which leases it to NICTD. In another potential property move, the board authorized the railroad's management to utilize eminent domain, if necessary, to acquire a parcel of land owned by the steelmaker Cleveland-Cliffs near the old Bailly power station site in Porter County. The site would be used for an electric substation as part of a 10-year project to refurbish and to add new power substations. NICTD had begun negotiations with previous owner Arcelor-Mittal, which Noland said had agreed to donate the land. When Cleveland-Cliffs took ownership of Arcelor's mills, negotiations continued, again with the possibility of a donation, but "we've been trying for the past year to get that across the finish line" without success, Noland said. NICTD needs control to complete the environmental process required to get the project engineering going, he said. Management software system purchased Also Monday, the board approved $2.5 million in purchases from two companies of new railroad management software to replace a "homegrown" set of software used to manage railroad and office operations. "We are now leaping from the 1990s to 2025," Noland said. A management team spent five months reviewing and refining proposals that led to contract awards to the firms MaxAccel and Vertosoft. LaPorte County has convened a data center working group as it plans for tech infrastructure projects that have proven to be controversial in some communities across Indiana. At least one data center developer is looking into a project in unincorporated LaPorte County. "We are only in very early-stage discussions for the county," said Carlton Bishop with the LaPorte County Office of Economic Development. LaPorte County Commissioner Connie Gramarossa said the county convened its data center working group to come up with ideas for how to proceed with data centers. The Chicago-based commercial real estate firm Jones Lang LaSalle estimates that $30 billion worth of new data centers are likely to be built in Northwest Indiana in the coming years, based on the land developers have already acquired. But such projects have been getting mixed receptions, being welcomed in some Region communities like LaPorte and Merrillville while running afoul of opposition in communities like Chesterton, Burns Harbor and Valparaiso. "There are four things we're really looking at: location, location, location, location," Gramarossa said at the data center working group meeting last week. "It's like buying a house. It's really important that when we have these data centers coming in that we're putting them in the right location. Water is an issue. We've heard this throughout the entire state. Second, electricity. Lastly, the tax incentives." Gramarossa said it was important to locate data centers in industrial parks, such as the Kingsbury Industrial Park. "It's an industrial park we have poured lots of money, lots of time, equity and sweat into," she said. "It's really important that we take these centers and try to push them into the industrial parks." Many residents have called with concerns over water usage. Gramarossa said data centers would use closed loop systems that would reuse the same water again and again. Electricity is a concern given how much electric rates have increased, she said. "It's kind of important for us to make sure as these centers come in, our rates for our constituents don't start jumping," she said. "It's going to be something we monitor and make sure that we do it right." LaPorte County also needs to weigh how much it will offer in incentives, especially given that data centers often will bring in only 10 to 15 permanent jobs and the state is offering tax breaks that will cost local governments revenue, Gramarossa said. "It can't be a giveaway," she said. Karl Centder with Cender Dalton Municipal Advisors said data center buildings and servers, routers and other computer hardware would add to assessed valuation, but that tax breaks cut into the amount of property tax revenue that would benefit location communities. "Because Indiana is one of the few states that actually taxes personal property, it can be quite expensive. If they're spending millions and maybe a billion dollars on equipment, it can get very expensive for the personal property taxes. And in order to get a tax exemption, typically it's done through a development agreement that's approved by the fiscal body and it would specify the amount of deduction and over the time period," Cender said at the data center working group meeting last week. "Many of these tech companies will come in and request 100% enterprise information technology deduction on its eligible personal property over the life typically of the lease of the facility which can range from 20 to 30 years. That's kind of what we're seeing. It'll be up to the local body to decide how much they want to give of the deduction. The combination of real property tax abatement and the tax exemption or deduction on eligible personal property can result in very significant property tax savings to these companies." For data centers, Indiana exempts sales and use taxes on electricity and equipment for up to 50 years in the case of investments of at least $750 million. "If they're replacing equipment every two to five years, it's a lot of tax that they are incurring and so they're seeking these exemptions," Center said. "So in order to qualify for the exemption, data centers must reach these thresholds for investments within five years. And there's an additional threshold. So in counties with populations of at least 100,000 or more people, you need to have 150 million invested in that five-year period. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation awards the sales tax exemption. That's not done by the local body." Communities have been negotiating payments in lieu of taxes or community impact payments in lieu of personal property taxes, he said. They likely will have to offer some type of incentive to be competitive for the investments. "You're going to be competing with other areas if this is something that the county wants," he said. "Data centers won't consider locating in a community without some type of tax deduction on its eligible personal property and possibly some amount of real property tax abatement. Other considerations are requiring the developers for these centers to make certain infrastructure improvements in the area of their development including roads, water, sewer improvements and possibly fiber and surrounding areas. I think, as mentioned, data centers typically employ few persons as compared to other warehousing and manufacturing companies, but the initial construction jobs do provide a lot of construction jobs for the county." LaPorte County Office of Economic Development Director Matt Reardon said the Digital Crossroads data center in Hammond brought hundreds of millions of dollars in investment. It was a first for the state when it was constructed. "I'm like, 'what is this thing?' It's a big building with computers in it," he said. "It's not like a distribution center, which are great, and they have nice jobs and all that's fine. They also have trucks and truck traffic and all those things with them. You know what I found with the data center is this is this exponential amount of investment to build these facilities in a fashion that is sustainable and secure." About 1,000 union tradesmen are expected to build out an expansion, Reardon said. It's expected to have a $600 million labor payroll for three years. The original project at the site of the State Line Generating Plant took about a year and a half to build. "The goal in this particular instance of the city of Hammond and the state of Indiana and Lake County, we need to make sure that those jobs are people from here, not from Tennessee or Kentucky or Ohio or Alabama, but from Indiana. So what they did was this. It's a great idea. Let's work out a deal," he said. "Data center guy says, 'Sure. What's the deal? Hammond first, Lake County second, Indiana third. If you want another contractor, you need to come see us about who that is and why.' So what you know, you can imagine what happened. The majority of that building got built with people from Indiana and materials purchased from Indiana." Photo: https://mfa.gov.ua/ U.S. President Donald Trump's stance on Moscow is realistic and firm given Putin's rejection of peace efforts, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha has said. "Putin is rejecting a ceasefire, avoiding a meeting of leaders and dragging out the war. He will stop terror only when we break the backbone of his economy, which already has systemic problems, and deprive his military budget of funding. The United States, Europe and the Group of Seven have the necessary strength to do this," Sybiha said on the X social network on Tuesday. He noted that maximum synchronization of sanctions is critically important. "Now is the right moment. It is time to consolidate a single and strong sanctions fist and hit Russia's military budget with all its might," he stressed. The minister also noted that Russian officials have recently boasted that they are allegedly fighting alone against the entire West. "They need this cheap propaganda to explain to their population why such a large country as Russia has not achieved any strategic goal in its full-scale war against a much smaller Ukraine for more than three years. But if they consider themselves heroes who stand alone against the entire West, then let them feel the consolidated power of the entire West and maximum sanctions pressure," he urged. The Ukrainian side, Sybiha noted, is responsibly coordinating sanctions with those of its allies. "Over the past few weeks, we have quickly synchronized the previous EU sanctions packages. This work continues. We are also taking measures together with our allies to eliminate loopholes and impede Russia's access to technology. In the coming weeks, maximum synchronization of sanctions by all partners against Russia should take place in order to increase the cost of war for the aggressor. We are actively working with partners to achieve this goal," the minister said. A sizeable population of tropical fish native to Venezuela and Guyana has been thriving in the polluted sewer system of Kyiv, in Ukraine, since the 1980s. The ability of guppies (Poecilia reticulata) to adapt to various environments is well documented, but few people would expect to find a full-blown colony of the popular aquarium fish living in the sewer system of Ukraines capital city. And yet, a scientific study found that the little tropical fish native to South America has not only been surviving, but actually thriving in the dirty sewers of Kyiv. Guppies were first observed in the Bortnicheskaya treatment plant on the outskirts of the Ukrainian capital in the 1980s, and have been able to breed there despite the high level of pollution and unpleasant odor. Photo: Diogo Cardoso/Unsplash Popular in aquariums worldwide, guppies have an unusually high tolerance for different water qualities and temperatures and can adapt to human-modified environments. They usually live in the warm and clean waters of South American streams, but apparently have no problem adjusting to the very different conditions of Kyivs sewer system. Guppies have been observed in irrigation channels, lagoons, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs all over the world, but the sewers of Kyiv are on a different level in terms of less-than-ideal conditions for life. Yulia Kutsokon, an ichthyologist of the Institute of Zoology at the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, recently confirmed the guppys incredible power to adapt to extremely hard conditions, confirming the thriving of the colony that calls the Bortnicheskaya treatment plant home. Photo: Denny Muller Although the water is polluted and smelly, they live there all year round and reproduce successfully, and there are a lot of them, the expert said, adding that the fish prefer the upper part of the canal, where the water moves fastest. The environment is too harsh even for guppies downstream, where the water slows down and pollutants settle. Weve heard about aquarium fish being dumped in toilets and winding up in lakes or ponds where they disrupt the local fauna, but to actually settle and thrive in the dirty sewers of an urban capital is something else. Guests heading to Center Parcs Longford Forest for a summer holiday this year have been warned against misusing day passes. People booked in for an extended stay at the hugely popular Longford attraction can bring friends or family to join them for a day only with the handy day passes. The day passes used to be open to the general public at Center Parcs resorts in the UK but were halted due to demand and crowds. Despite the stipulation that people should only book day passes for family and friends, the facility has had to issue a warning after reports of people selling day passes on Facebook and other social media. A guest can add the day pass to their booking before providing the personal details and car registration of their family and friends joining them, but it appears the function is being abused. In an update on their website, Center Parcs Ireland say: "Day visitor passes are only available for close family and friends and not available to sell to the general public. READ NEXT: Center Parcs Longford visitors warned against wearing sandals amid disease fears "Guests found to be actively selling day visitor passes on social media or other channels will be asked to leave the resort without a refund." People genuinely booking day passes are also being advised that they are limited and to add them to their booking as early as possible to avoid disappointment. A man in the Midlands who admitted to carrying out two public order breaches, has been directed to make a payment to make a charitable contribution. Ronan Creighton (33) of 8 Sycamore Close, Clonbalt Woods, Longford Town pleaded guilty to two public order breaches on July 1, 2025. Sergeant Enda Daly, court presenter, said when Gardai arrived they observed two men, a father and a son, engaged in a physical altercation. Both men had to be separated and they remained abusive towards each other. They were highly intoxicated at the time and Gardai attempted to find a peaceful resolution due to the males being father and son. "Both males unfortunately resisted due to the level of intoxication and both men were arrested." Mr Creighton had no previous convictions. Solicitor Michelle Reynolds said Mr Creighton accepts what Gardai said happened on the night and he still lives with his dad. She stated her client had been and still is taking medication which 'does not mix well ' with alcohol and that had been a problem on the night. "He accepts this and he has apologised to his father and he apologises to the Gardai for this and he has stated that he is a lot happier now." Ms Reynolds said her client is currently unemployed, but he attended a training course recently in Dublin and he has a job lined up 'once he passes his driving test and gets his learner licence'. She stated Mr Creighton does contribute to the bills at home and he had come to court with 300 for the court poor box if the judge was willing to consider that. Judge Bernadette Owens (pictured) directed the defendant to make a 300 payment to Longford Women's Link and indicated if this was done she would strike out both charges. "Mr Creighton has to realise he has used up all of his opportunity," she added. A man has been arrested after an on-duty member of An Garda Siochana was stabbed during an unprovoked attack in Dublin city centre. In a statement, issued this Tuesday night, a spokesperson confirmed, the incident happened at around 6pm. "While on routine high-visibility patrol in the Capel Street area of Dublin 1, a member of An Garda Siochana was subjected to an unprovoked assault by a male. This male was arrested at the scene," they said. "The member of An Garda Siochana who sustained injuries has been taken to a hospital in Dublin for the treatment of non-life-threatening injuries," added the spokesperson No further information has been disclosed publicly. READ NEXT: Justin Kelly appointed to replace Drew Harris as Garda Commissioner In a statement, posted on X, the Minister for Justice, Jim O'Callaghan confirmed described what happened as appalling. "Ive been briefed and am receiving updates from An Garda Siochana regarding an appalling attack of a garda on Capel Street today. My thoughts are with the garda and I wish him a full recovery. Attacks on our Gardai are unacceptable and will never be tolerated," he stated. The scene of the assault has been preserved and a full investigation has been launched following the violent incident. The male who was arrested can be detained, without charge, for up to 24 hours. New Delhi: Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday criticised the Narendra Modi government's handling of Operation Sindoor, India's response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Taking part in the debate in Lok Sabha, he said the government lacked the political will to confront Pakistan and asked the armed forces to operate with their hands tied behind their backs. Hitting hard at the government, he said that the Indian armed forces suffered losses in the operation because the political leadership constrained the armed forces. He said the opposition had stood behind the government and the armed forces like a rock during India's offensive. Earlier, speaking during the special discussion on 'Operation Sindoor' in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in the Upper House, Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge attacked the government and took a jibe at PM Narendra Modi's unscheduled visit to Pakistan in 2015. Kharge said the prime minister should have been present at the all-party meet instead of campaigning in Bihar, and questioned Modi's sincerity towards national security. ADVERTISEMENT Kharge said Home Minister Amit Shah must take responsibility for the "security lapse" which led to the Pahalgam terror attack, and demanded that accountability be fixed. He was citing Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha's statement. Demanding accountability, the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha said the government should admit its 'lapses' and 'failure' in stopping terror attacks. ADVERTISEMENT Symbol of govt's failure: Akhilesh Yadav Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav asked the government in Lok Sabha to fix responsibility for the "intelligence failure" that led to the Pahalgam terror attack, saying it cannot get away after such incidents by merely admitting to a lapse. Participating in the debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lower House, Yadav raised questions on India ending the conflict with Pakistan abruptly and asked, "Under whose pressure was the ceasefire done?" ADVERTISEMENT The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister also claimed that India's foreign policy has "completely collapsed" and called China a "monster" that will "gobble up our land and market". "Who will take responsibility for the intelligence lapse in the Pahalgam attack? Yadav said, adding the tragic incident should never have happened. The "lapse" has cost precious lives and exposed vulnerabilities in the country's border strategy, he said. "The launch of Operation Sindoor post Pahalgam attack is itself a symbol of the government's failure," he said. In ancient Rome the citizens could watch the gladiators kill each other mostly adult males, for free. The emperor sometimes provided free food for the spectators. In Ukraine today we can watch Russians and Ukrainians kill each other mostly adult males, at great expense to us. There is no free food. In Gaza today we can watch Israelis kill Palestinians mostly women and children, at great expense to us. There is sometimes free food - for the victims who can be shot when lining up to get it. There are differences, of course. The gladiators had a fighting chance - not much of one, but still a chance. They could die fighting, not sleeping in tents or groveling for food and water in the rubble of their bombed-out cities where their loved ones still lie buried. Did they know that in dying they were providing business opportunities for their captors? Surely they did not have to hear the unkindest cut of all - the emperor proclaiming to the cheering crowd that it was all in self-defense. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited one of the Ukrainian enterprises producing electronics and sensitive components for missiles, drones and secure communications. "Today in Kyiv region, at an enterprise where Ukrainian weapons are made smart. I met with a team that manufactures electronics and sensitive components for our missiles, drones, secure communications," Zelenskyy said on Telegram on Tuesday. Zelenskyy noted that this enterprise "very quickly mastered the production of control units and other important components. More than 80% of production works for our defense." "I thank the entire team for your work, which gives results for our defense. You are strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities, and this is important," Zelenskyy said. As reported on the presidential website, the company representative thanked for the government support, thanks to which it is possible to scale up production, and showed how the electronics soldering line and quality control laboratories work. The company has several hundred employees. President's Advisor on Strategic Issues Oleksandr Kamyshin and Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Hvozdiar reported to the head of state that more and more weapons and equipment are now being assembled from Ukrainian components. In order to reduce dependence on imports and expand local production, the Components Library project was created. This is a secure digital platform on which companies that manufacture, in particular, drones, can easily find component manufacturers and establish partnerships. There was a time when Americans knew what it meant to be a hero. But thanks to the last several decades of cutthroat capitalism, corporate mind control, and social media distortion, the term has lost its original meaning. As a result, Americans too often compromise their principles, only do what's profitable or expedient, and condemn anyone who questions their motives. Not a very heroic way to live, yet shouldn't everyone be a hero in his or her own life? According to famed mythologist Joseph Campbell, a hero is an individual who has gone beyond the normal range of human experience to perform an extraordinary act or deed; in addition, he is an individual who is willing to risk or sacrifice his life for a cause greater than himself or other than himself. Historically, the hero has embodied these qualities: honesty, bravery, unselfishness, compassion, inviolate personal ethics, and a commitment to never give up, to fight until the end. Campbell also divides the hero into two subcategories: action heroes, who achieve their objectives through violent or militaristic means, and spiritual heroes, who achieve their objectives through non-violent or passive resistance. One of the great action heroes of ancient times (and popularized in the 2014 film 300) was King Leonidas of Sparta who defended the pass of Thermopylae in northern Greece with only three hundred troops. Actually the total number was more than that, but it still paled in comparison to the army of Xerxes, the Persian King, who had thousands of troops. According to the historical account, "Stand and Die" was the battle cry for the Spartans, and for three days they held off Xerxes' troops until eventually they were overwhelmed, and each Spartan warrior was killed, including King Leonidas. Their noble and heroic fight to the finish, which gave their fellow Spartans enough time to mobilize a larger army and eventually defeat Xerxes, set the standard for military battles for centuries to come. In contrast, the spiritual hero uses moral rectitude and nonviolence as his tools of the trade, but like the action hero, he is prepared to sacrifice his life if necessary. Socrates and Christ, for example, were two great spiritual heroes who died for their beliefs, as were Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. Joan of Arc was a spiritual hero, but a unique one because she was also an action hero (and a woman) who led her troops into battle at a time and in a culture that did not sanction female warriors. Unfortunately, she ultimately sacrificed her own life and became a martyr (dead hero), the fate of many heroes. As F. Scott Fitzgerald noted, "Show me a hero, and I will write you a tragedy." For centuries, the hero archetype was celebrated throughout Western culture in Europe and the United States. During the latter half of the twentieth century, however, the archetype in America began to change as our society evolved culturally, and by the 1960s, the heroic archetype came under attack. Black Americans, for example, objected to the fact that films and television shows almost always portrayed a white American in the role of the hero. Women also objected to the fact that most often the hero was a male rather than a female. In addition, the Vietnam War changed the perception of war itself and the role of a hero. As a result, another archetype evolved: the antihero. The antihero, or alternative hero, as I prefer to call him, embodied many of the same qualities of the traditional hero, but unlike the traditional hero he was decidedly anti-establishment. The alternative hero, of course, was not a totally new phenomenon; in fact, one could make a case that the ancient Greek hero Achilles could be interpreted as more alternative hero than traditional hero. In more recent times, Dashiell Hammett's detective character Sam Spade was a classic alternative hero, and Humphrey Bogart, the actor who portrayed him in The Maltese Falcon, the movie version of the book by the same name, became famous for playing alternative heroes in film. The concept of the alternative hero reached its apotheosis during the cultural revolution of the late1960s and early 1970s. During this period, the traditional, clean-cut, God-fearing hero of post World War II America had become corny, passe', and at odds with the prevailing zeitgeist. He was a relic from another era who represented the "plastic" values of the 1950s establishment. On screen he was embodied by John Wayne, but even "The Duke", the quintessential western film hero of the World War II generation, was being outgunned and replaced by Clint Eastwood's gritty new alternative western hero whom he portrayed in "spaghetti westerns" like The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. The new archetype portrayed by Eastwood was a perfect fit for the Baby Boom generation of the '60s; he was unkempt and iconoclastic, a bounty hunter, not a soldier or lawman, and he didn't like taking orders. He was an existentialist who created his own code of ethics, the same way that rebels or gangsters did, and he foreshadowed a changing world where the line between the good guys and the bad guys was becoming progressively more blurred. But just as the alternative hero replaced the traditional hero, a new archetype, whom I call the "corporate hero", replaced the alternative hero in the 1980s. The new corporate hero was a product of the Reagan era. He was a stalwart proponent of free market capitalism and Ayn Rand objectivism, a staunch anti-communist and disciple of ultra-conservatives like Milton Freedom and William F. Buckley Jr. Where the alternative hero of the '60s was an anti-establishment rebel, the corporate hero of the '80s was a super-establishment businessman. But he was not like Sinclair Lewis' Babbitt, the old-fashioned conformist businessman who goes to church on Sundays, gripes about unions and high taxes, and occasionally feels guilty about his affluent lifestyle. No, he was more like Gordon Gekko, the ruthless, greed-driven character Michael Douglass portrays in the movie Wall Street. The Gekko character was patterned after real life cutthroat capitalists like Michael Milkin and Ivan Boesky, both of whom went to jail for their financial misdeeds. Boesky, of course, was credited with coining the term, "Greed is good", and he spoke for a whole generation of corporate heroes and all-around swell guys like "Chainsaw" Al Dunlop, "Neutron" Jack Welch, and "Kenny Boy" Lay. Predictably, the mainstream media, forever obeisant to their corporate masters, were quick to lionize these heroes of cutthroat capitalism and couldn't wait to put them on the front covers of magazines and do flattering interviews with them on television. Even college professors lauded these immoral, ruthless creeps as "smart cookies" worthy of admiration. In fact, I personally know of a case where a professor at a prominent business school actually showed the movie Wall Street to his students not as a cautionary tale of good verses evil, but as a primer on how to be a consummate businessman! In the old days, this type of corporate hero, who represented greed, ruthlessness, selfishness, and lack of ethics and morals, would have been considered evil and identified as a "villain", an archetype as old as the hero himself. Unfortunately, Americans are a little slow to catch on, and this villainous corporate hero continued to capture the imagination of the American public and was raised to apotheosis throughout the 1980s and 1990s, and well into the 21st century. It was no coincidence that during this same time period, the distribution of wealth in the country became increasingly more tilted toward the upper one percent of the population, especially the upper one-tenth of one percent. And thanks to the Supreme Court's insanely bad Citizens United Decision of 2010, multi-millionaires and billionaires are able to wield almost unlimited political power when it comes to picking candidates and getting them elected to public office. As a result, the villainous corporate hero of decades past morphed into something even more despicable and dangerous: the neofascist hero. (Calling Donald Trump and Elon Musk!) Unlike the corporate hero, the neofascist hero is no longer content to be just a greedy, narcissistic billionaire who uses his money to buy rich-man toys, trophy wives, and corrupt politicians. No, he wants much more than that! He wants to be in charge of the economy, the political process, the social mores, and the future of the country itself-- even outer space, for chrissake! Worse yet, neofascist heroes like Trump and Musk have influenced a whole generation of young men to believe that being a neofascist bully is cool! And what does it mean to be cool to a generation of young unemployed or underemployed men who are being left behind by society, who are being replaced by AI and robots in the workplace, and who are being rejected by young women who surpass them at school and in the business world? Well, it ain't pretty. It's reminiscent of Adolf Hitler being rejected from the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna (twice) and then taking it out on the elite society that rejected him. And for many of these young men, it's tantamount to the same thing. It means getting revenge on the "elite political culture," the "woke a**holes" that don't value them. It means, in their ultimate fantasy, becoming an all-powerful brute that can kick ass and do whatever he wants, a Bizarro Superman without ethics or decency. Being a nice guy or fighting for one's country is for "suckers and losers", as their neofascist hero Trump has told them. To be fair, Trump and Musk did not invent the American version of the neofascist hero. Nor did they create the "manosphere" populated by these aforementioned young (and not-so-young) men who hate successful liberal women, worship hyper masculinity, and revel in revenge and violence. A case can be made that Rush Limbaugh, Trump's recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom -- could he have made a worse choice? --was an early neofascist hero who predated Trump and had millions of devout followers. But there's no denying that in today's culture, Trump and Musk have given impetus and legitimacy to this archetype, as have social media personalities like Joe Rogan, Andrew Tate, and Jordan Peterson, And let's not forget how right-wing Christian Nationalists and Neo-Nazis, some of Trump's most ardent supporters, have always been in sync with this neofascist hero. Even black rapper Kanye West, whom Elon Musk considers a friend and positive role model for his millions of fans, is all in on this archetype, and apparently digs Hitler as well! As proof, his most recent song, "Heil Hitler", has received over 10 million Nazi salutes on X, Musk's social platform. Perhaps this is to be expected at the end of empire. It's been roughly 250 years since the United States was founded and became the top dog in the world. Historians tell us that's how long most empires last before they either crumble from within or are conquered by one of their enemies. And if one traces the devolution of the hero archetype from traditional hero to antihero to corporate hero to neofascist hero - and uses it as a historical marker - the future doesn't look too promising for the good old USA. After all, it's no coincidence that a malignant narcissist like Trump is in charge of the country during the final days of the American Empire. Who else? Our country has devolved so far there is no longer any room at the top for an unselfish, ethical, traditional hero. Perhaps Trump won't go as far as Hitler or Mussolini or Stalin. But who knows? Bear in mind, when a malignant narcissist like Trump gets older and his health deteriorates and he realizes his time is nearly up, he will take everyone down with him. It's what malignant narcissists do. When this happens, the country will crumble from within and the American Empire will become a second-rate power replaced by China, the new top-dog empire and the next "Shining City on a Hill". Not a Launch. A Lab: un:fltrd Crowdsources Real Data with 150 Women to Co-Create India's Most Inclusive Yaroslavl, Russia - July 29, 2025 - A comprehensive new study, Fertilizer Market Players in Brazil, has been released, offering critical insights for companies engaged Rodney McMullen, Chairman and CEO of The Kroger Co., speaks during the Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills, California, on May 1, 2023. Patrick T. Fallon/AFP/Getty Images/TNS Albertsons Cos. demanded that Kroger Co. provide details on personal conduct that led the company to replace its chief executive officer, who shepherded the failed $24.6 billion takeover thats now the focus of litigation between the two companies. Earlier this year, Kroger announced that Rodney McMullen abruptly resigned after a board investigation into his behavior that was inconsistent with its policy on business ethics, but the company didnt elaborate. Albertsons attorneys wrote in a court filing Sunday that they need to know what happened since McMullen micro-managed the merger from beginning to end, and his business ethics (or lack thereof) lie at the heart of this case. The demand comes as part of litigation in Delaware Chancery Court where the countrys largest grocery chains are blaming each other for a failed takeover by Kroger that was blocked on antitrust grounds. Albertsons was first to sue, seeking billions of dollars in damages because it said that Kroger didnt exercise best efforts to win regulatory approval. Kroger shot back, accusing Albertsons of undermining the deal and trying to collect a $600 million termination fee with baseless claims. Kroger, the largest US grocery chain, agreed two years ago to purchase No. 2 grocer, Albertsons. But the US Federal Trade Commission sued to stop the deal for antitrust reasons. A federal judge blocked the deal in December and Albertsons became the first to terminate the deal following the ruling. Albertsons declined to comment on the companys filing. McMullen didnt immediately respond to an email seeking comment. In its Sunday court filing, Albertsons argued that it was critical to get information on McMullen since he will be a key witness for Kroger. His conduct raises significant concerns not only regarding his credibility, integrity, and compliance with the law, but also about his focus during the merger process and his ability to fulfill Krogers contractual obligations to Albertsons, attorneys for Albertsons wrote. A Kroger spokesperson said that while the company continues to focus on delivering outstanding value to its customers and communities, Albertsons desperation is once again on full display in this latest attempt to distract from its own misconduct during the regulatory process. Kroger provided little detail in March when it announced McMullens departure after an investigation. At the time, the company said that his conduct didnt relate to the companys financial performance or employees. Albertsons argued in its filing that it cant take Kroger at its word that McMullens conduct had nothing to do with the merger or any issue in the litigation. Kroger has not explained why that conduct was so egregious that the Kroger board determined McMullen was unfit to serve as CEO and forced him out within 10 days of its discovery, attorneys for Albertsons wrote. Jill Fisch, a University of Pennsylvania law professor who teaches about corporate law and CEO behavior, said Monday in an email, Without getting the details, theres no way to know for Albertsons to know if Krogers CEO engaged in wrongdoing, such as failing to engage in his best efforts to navigate regulatory approval for the merger. The case is Albertsons v. Kroger, 2024-1276, Delaware Court of Chancery. -- Sabrina Willmer and Jef Feeley, Bloomberg News 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Kyle Davis Graham was allegedly armed with this pistol when he was confronted by a sheriff's deputy. Courtesy of the Columbia County Sheriff's Office The Columbia County sheriffs deputy who killed a man following a car chase last week had previously been dismissed by the office for failing a drug test and had left a different police department over performance problems, records show. On July 20, Cpl. Seann Luedke was pursuing Kyle Graham, who had earlier eluded Washington State Patrol officers during a chase. Graham lost control of the Kia Optima he was driving and careened down an embankment. Graham, 47, was armed with a gun when Luedke found him after the crash, and the deputy shot and killed him, Oregon State Police said. Records obtained by The Oregonian/OregonLive show that a lieutenant in the Columbia County Sheriffs Office described Luedkes employment history as problematic in 2021, the second time Luedke sought to become a deputy there, but the office hired him anyway. Luedkes attorney said in an email that it would be inappropriate for him or his client to comment before the investigation into the shooting is complete. Columbia County Sheriff's Office Cpl. Seann Luedke, pictured in a St. Helens Police Department file obtained by The Oregonian/OregonLive. St. Helens Police Department records Luedke had resigned from the St. Helens Police Department in March 2020 to avoid being fired for failing to complete 20 police reports, including multiple death investigations, according to a Department of Public Safety Standards and Training memo. His failure to write up a report on a domestic-violence case caused a delay when the victim sought a protective order, according to the memo. Luedke joined the Columbia County Sheriffs Office shortly after he resigned from the St. Helens Police Department. He was hired as a temporary employee in April 2020 and received a conditional offer of permanent employment on June 4, according to the offer letter, signed by Sheriff Brian Pixley. About two weeks after that offer, the sheriffs office learned that Luedkes drug test came back low positive for marijuana but that Luedkes explanation was plausible and I agreed, the sheriff wrote in a June 25, 2020, letter to Luedke. But a second drug screening came back invalid due to the presence of synthetic urine, according to the sheriffs letter. Luedke also apparently failed a psychological examination. After Luedke had worked on a temporary basis for about two months, the sheriff ended the deputys employment. A subsequent sheriffs office investigation concluded that Luedke couldnt have substituted the sample without being seen and that the anomalous urinalysis result could have been the result of overhydration rather than tampering, Pixley said in an emailed response to questions from The Oregonian/OregonLive. When Luedke applied to work at the sheriffs office again the year after his rejection over the drug test, Luedke wrote that he was in process for full time employment when I failed the psych test and tested positive for marijuana in very small amounts from an ointment. Staff flagged his application. Luedkes past looks like it could be problematic, Lt. Levi Raethke wrote in a Feb. 23, 2021, email to another lieutenant, records show. Do you normally continue with a background or just call it quits now? The hiring process continued and the sheriffs office hired Luedke on Sept. 15, 2021, according to a letter signed by the sheriff. The sheriff acknowledged the lieutenants internal email that voiced concerns about Luedkes employment history and said that, after a full review, the office concluded Luedke met the necessary standards to be hired. Every hiring decision we make is weighed carefully and based on a thorough assessment of available facts, Pixley wrote. Since joining CCSO, Corporal Luedke has served the community with professionalism and integrity. He has earned the trust of his peers and supervisors. Luedke is on standard leave while Oregon State Police investigate the shooting earlier this month. Corporal Luedke acted in accordance with his training and duties during a difficult and dynamic situation, Pixley wrote of the fatal shooting of Graham. We continue to have full confidence in his conduct and capabilities as a law enforcement professional. Grahams family members have questioned the circumstances of his death, while acknowledging Grahams troubled history. In 2010, Graham was sentenced to 10 years in prison for first-degree manslaughter after beating and stabbing a man to death. He spent three years in solitary confinement in prison, his girlfriend, Marie Berry, told The Oregonian/OregonLive. He has said he was wrongfully accused. Marie Berry and Kyle Graham, her boyfriend, several months before he died in an officer-involved shooting July 20, 2025. Courtesy of Marie Berry Graham had been doing well before his death, Berry said. He had gotten baptized last year and was studying robotics at Clark College. But he continued to struggle with addiction, which Grahams brother, Brian Canton, indicated may have ultimately led to the fatal incident. Graham came to Berrys home around 6 a.m. Saturday, told her hed been chased by police and asked if he could stay. Reluctantly, she let him in, she said. Still at her place, he texted her later that night. Plz help me I want to get clean Im not ready to give up, Graham wrote Berry. The next day, after Graham had left Berrys home to go to Vancouver, Berry said she saw on social media that there had been a high-speed chase in the area. Oh my god, please no, Berry said she thought, already fearing and suspecting he was the driver. Are you ok? she texted him. She never got an answer. Fedor Zarkhin is a breaking news and enterprise reporter. Do you have a story? Reach him by phone or text at 971-373-2905 or by email at fzarkhin@oregonian.com. FBI investigators used facial recognition software to identify and charge a 24-year-old Reed College graduate accused of striking an ICE officer in the head with a rock and damaging the ICE building in South Portland with a stop sign used as a battering ram last month. Robert Jacob Hoopes, 24, was arrested at gunpoint at his home Friday morning when federal officers showed up with a warrant stemming from a federal complaint charging him with aggravated assault of a federal officer and damaging government property. S. Mate Joseph's younger brother, Clayton, was shot and killed by Vancouver police in February 2019. The elder brother is accused in a fatal Southeast Portland stabbing. Mark Graves/The Oregonian The 28-year-old man accused of a fatal stabbing in a Southeast Portland home earlier this month is the older brother of a teen who was shot to death by Vancouver police six years ago. S. Mate Joseph was 22 when his brother, 16-year-old Clayton Joseph, was shot and killed in February 2019 outside of a Vancouver apartment complex. Then-Police Cpl. Roger Evans, who retired from the department last year, shot Clayton Joseph once. The officer said Clayton Joseph had a knife in his hand and was threatening him. Clark County Prosecuting Attorney Anthony Golik found the shooting justified. According to Goliks August 2019 report, the shooting unfolded after police responded to a disturbance involving S. Mate Joseph and his girlfriend. Golik wrote that S. Mate Joseph was engaged in a loud verbal and physical altercation with his girlfriend, identified in the report as Neilyen. Witnesses said S. Mate Joseph was intoxicated and angry, according to Goliks report. Vancouver police and officials from the prosecuting attorneys office confirmed that the S. Mate Joseph, referenced in the 2019 report, is the same man accused of first-degree burglary and second-degree murder in the July 19, 2025, incident in Southeast Portland. It also appears that the girlfriend mentioned in the six-year-old Vancouver police-shooting report is the same woman killed in the July 19 stabbing near Southeast 143rd Court in Portland. Portland police identified the victim as 24-year-old Neilyann Ysam, and a Vancouver police spokesperson and an official from the Clark County Prosecuting Attorneys Office said they share the same date of birth. Neilyann Ysam, 24, was fatally stabbed July 19, 2025, inside a Southeast Portland home. Courtesy of Portland Police Bureau In the police shooting case, Golik wrote that Clayton Joseph became involved in the fight, brandished a knife and threatened to stab witnesses. Several people called 911, with Golik describing the scene as hectic. Evans was the fourth officer to arrive on the scene that day. The three other officers were attempting to get S. Mate Joseph, on the ground, but the officers later said he did not comply, Golik wrote. S. Mate Joseph was described as intoxicated and very agitated. As Evans drove up, he saw Clayton Joseph exit an apartment complex gate and walk toward the officers who were beside his brother, Evans told investigators. Evans got out of his patrol car and told the teen to stop and show his hands. At this point, Evans said they were 12 to 15 feet apart, and he saw a knife in Clayton Josephs right hand. The officer ordered him to drop the knife at least once and said the teen did not comply and moved towards him with the weapon raised. He fired a single round at Clayton Joseph, who fell to the ground. Evans told investigators he felt he had no reasonable option other than to fire his weapon, believing he would have been stabbed. When asked about the possibility of using a taser, he said he did not do so because he was alone and was trained not to use it unless he had another officer with him. Clayton Joseph was a student at Evergreen High School in Vancouver. Goliks report mentioned that Clayton and his family had moved to Washington a year prior to the shooting from Micronesia. The older Joseph brother, S. Mate, was arrested in Vancouver on July 19, a little more than three hours after police responded to the stabbing at the Southeast Portland residence, where officers found Ysam dead. Officers also found five children inside the home. Police said the children were not injured. Im comfortable saying (the children) would have been exposed to the violent crime, which is terrible and tragic, Sgt. Kevin Allen, a police spokesperson, told reporters that day. S. Mate Joseph is also accused of driving under the influence of intoxicants, violating a protective order and fourth-degree assault. He made an initial appearance in Clark County Superior Court last week and is being held without bail. Multnomah County officials are working to bring him to Oregon. Zaeem Shaikh covers the Portland Police Bureau and criminal justice issues for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach him at 503-221-4323, zshaikh@oregonian.comor on X@zaeemshake. In August 2024, a U.S. Secret Service agent spoke to Diedrich Holgate after he had left about 22 similar threats on X, formerly Twitter, since January 2021, and about 11 messages with the secret service. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) AP A man accused of making nearly three dozen threats to kill the president in posts on social media and calls to the U.S. Secret Service and White House last year was sentenced Monday to a year and a half in prison. Diedrich Joseph Holgate, 46, pleaded guilty in May to one count of making a threat to injure another via interstate communications. He admitted to leaving a voicemail threatening to kill his former employer in Texas in July 2024 after he had been fired from his undisclosed job in 2006. He was arrested in Oregon in October. U.S. District Judge Michael H. Simon sentenced Holgate to a slightly longer term than the year and two months sought by Assistant Federal Public Defender Megha Deshai. Holgates most recent threat was made on Sept. 7, when he called the Secret Services office in Miami and said, Im going to kill the president, according to a federal indictment. On Aug. 28, he called the Secret Services Washington field office and threatened to kill everybody, the indictment said. When asked to specify who exactly he was after, Holgate said, POTUS, FLOTUS and SCOTUS. I have the right to kill the president. I want to kill you and added that the president had better call him or hes going to die, the indictment said. In late June 2024, he told Secret Service office he didnt care if it is Trump or Biden and that hed hang everyone for treason. Since January 2021, Holgate had left more than 20 similar threats on X and more than 10 messages with the Secret Service, according to the indictment. Holgate, who lives in Texas, was previously convicted of sending threatening voicemail messages to two judges in Texas Travis County in 2018 and sentenced in 2020 to five years in custody. In that case, physicians testified that he suffered from a mental illness and delusional thinking, and he was found at one point not competent to stand trial, according to the Austin American-Statesman. -- Maxine Bernstein covers federal court and criminal justice. Reach her at 503-221-8212, mbernstein@oregonian.com, follow her on X @maxoregonian, on Bluesky @maxbernstein.bsky.social or on LinkedIn. Andrea Martinez is Laotian and Vietnamese; her husband, Honorio Martinez is Mexican. The couple aim to include parts of their cultures in their cafe. Allison Barr/The Oregonian Lea este articulo en espanol: Golden Hour Coffee fusiona las culturas oaxaquena, laosiana y vietnamita en SE Hawthorne Andrea and Honorio De Jesus Martinez didnt grow up drinking the same kind of coffee. For Andrea, it was sweetened with condensed milk, a Vietnamese staple. For Honario, it was the familiar scent of Folgers brewing at 5 a.m., sweetened with sugar and cinnamon, the way his dad made it. Now, the married couple are blending their backgrounds Oaxacan, Laotian and Vietnamese into Golden Hour Coffee, a new cafe on Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard. Taking over the former Seven Virtues Coffee Roasters space, theyve reimagined the shop with what they call sprinkles of their culture. Owner Honorio Martinez makes an iced mango matcha latte. Allison Barr/The Oregonian We want people to walk in and immediately be touched by a warm embrace, a moment of a golden hour, Andrea said. Those cultural sprinkles show up in the menu, which features espresso drinks, teas and seasonal specials such as a mango matcha latte (a nod to mango sticky rice) and a salted caramel shaken espresso. They also partner with La Casa De Mama, a Portland-based vegan Mexican bakery, to offer conchas (Mexican sweet bread) and alfajores (dulce de lechefilled cookies) alongside bagels, muffins, cookies and gluten-free options. But for the Martinezes, the action behind the cultural components is what matters most. Its more than just like hanging a Mexican flag or hanging something that represents Vietnam, Honorio said. For me, being Mexican, if youve ever gone to a Mexican household, youre walking through the door and handed a drink, youre handed food. Its that warm feeling. Thats what I feel our culture is like. The owners of Golden Hour Cafe want to make speciality coffee accessible to everyone. Allison Barr/The Oregonian The Martinezes opened Golden Hour in early April, bringing their entrepreneurial experience from past ventures. In 2021, the Martinezes opened PupScrub, a self-serve dog wash and grooming business in Gresham. Andrea also runs Events by Andrea M., a wedding planning business shes owned for eight years. According to Andrea, their new venture is a way of taking up space in the coffee industry, as well as making space for others. In three months of being open, the duo have already hosted a variety of cultural communities and events in their space including Latinas Running Across Portland, a Gresham-based run club; Cycle Homies, a collective of cyclists and DJs; and a pop-up dance party with DJ Bazooka. Ive told this to other local community clubs and makers, Look, we already pay the rent, so use our space, Andrea said. Use it to showcase what you have worked so hard on. Use it to show your culture, your tradition. You dont have to be Asian, you dont have to be Hispanic. Were open to it all. Owners Andrea and Honorio at Golden Hour Cafe. Allison Barr/The Oregonian The Martinezes have found that the warm and welcoming atmosphere they create has been returned by their customers in full. Whatever you put out there, youre gonna get in return, Andrea said. We put out excellent warm customer service. And what we got in return was excellent warm hugs. Beyond making specialty coffee more accessible and welcoming, they hope to create a third space where people can build strong friendships and cultural community. As lifelong Portlanders, the couple rarely saw their cultures represented in the coffee industry. An iced mango matcha, salted caramel shaken espresso and cold brew with cold foam at Golden Hour Cafe. Allison Barr/The Oregonian We felt that this was an opportunity for us to make something that we didnt see growing up, Honorio said about specialty coffee shops. People working there didnt look like us or couldnt relate to us. That was one of the big driving factors of it all. As children of immigrants, the Martinezes were inspired to open their businesses by their parents sacrifices and resilience. They hope to honor their respective cultures by fostering an environment that is judgment-free and accepting of all cultures and backgrounds. We love partnering with community clubs or local makers, Andrea said, so that voices that maybe often go unheard and traditions that honestly should be seen and felt that way we can give a space to that. Because why not? Culture should be celebrated every day. If you go: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. daily; 3538 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.; goldenhourcoffeeco.com Chiara Profenna covers religion, faith and cultural connections. Reach her at 503-221-4327; cprofenna@oregonian.com or @chiaraprofenna. The Oregonian/OregonLive receives support from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust to bring readers stories on religion, faith and cultural connections in Oregon. The Oregonian/OregonLive is solely responsible for all content. Trump says Epstein stole young women from Mar-a-Lago spa, including Virginia Giuffre. In this photo, Audrey Strauss, acting U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, points to a photo of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, during a news conference in New York on July 2, 2020. (AP Photo/John Minchillo, File) AP President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Jeffrey Epstein stole young women who worked for the spa at Mar-a-Lago, the latest evolution in his description of how their highly scrutinized relationship ended years ago. One of the women, he acknowledged, was Virginia Giuffre, who was among Epsteins most well-known sex trafficking accusers. Trumps comments expanded on remarks he had made a day earlier, when he said he had banned Epstein from his private club in Florida two decades ago because his one-time friend stole people that worked for me. At the time, he did not make clear who those workers were. The Republican president has faced an outcry over his administrations refusal to release more records about Epstein after promises of transparency, a rare example of strain within Trumps tightly controlled political coalition. Trump has attempted to tamp down questions about the case, expressing annoyance that people are still talking about it six years after Epstein committed suicide while awaiting trial, even though some of his own allies have promoted conspiracy theories about it. Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins imprisoned former girlfriend, was recently interviewed inside a Florida courthouse by the Justice Departments No. 2 official, though officials have not publicly disclosed what she said. Her lawyers said Tuesday that shes willing to answer more questions from Congress if she is granted immunity from future prosecution for her testimony. Aboard Air Force One while returning from Scotland, Trump said he was upset that Epstein was taking people who worked for me. The women, he said, were taken out of the spa, hired by him in other words, gone. I said, listen, we dont want you taking our people, Trump said. When it happened again, Trump said he banned Epstein from Mar-a-Lago. Asked if Giuffre was one of the employees poached by Epstein, he demurred but then said he stole her. President Donald Trump waves as he boards Air Force One, Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at Royal Air Force Lossiemouth en route to return to Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) AP The White House originally said Trump banned Epstein from Mar-a-Lago because he was acting like a creep. Giuffre died by suicide earlier this year. She claimed that Maxwell spotted her working as a spa attendant at Mar-a-Lago in 2000, when she was a teenager, and hired her as Epsteins masseuse, which led to sexual abuse. Although Giuffres allegations did not become part of criminal prosecutions against Epstein, she is central to conspiracy theories about the case. She accused Epstein of pressuring her into having sex with powerful men. Maxwell, who has denied Giuffres allegations, is serving a 20-year-prison sentence in a Florida federal prison for conspiring with Epstein to sexually abuse underage girls. A spokeswoman for the House Oversight Committee, which requested the interview with Maxwell, said the panel would not consider granting the immunity she requested. The potential interview is part of a frenzied, renewed interest in the Epstein saga following the Justice Departments July statement that it would not be releasing any additional records from the investigation, an abrupt announcement that stunned online sleuths, conspiracy theorists and elements of Trumps political base who had been hoping to find proof of a government coverup. Since then, the Trump administration has sought to present itself as promoting transparency, with the department urging courts to unseal grand jury transcripts from the sex-trafficking investigation and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche interviewing Maxwell over the course of two days at a Florida courthouse last week. In a letter Tuesday, Maxwells attorneys said that though their initial instinct was for Maxwell to invoke her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, they are open to having her cooperate provided that lawmakers satisfy their request for immunity and other conditions. But the Oversight Committee seemed to reject that offer outright. The Oversight Committee will respond to Ms. Maxwells attorney soon, but it will not consider granting congressional immunity for her testimony, a spokesperson said. Separately, Maxwells attorneys have urged the Supreme Court to review her conviction, saying she dd not receive a fair trial. They also say that one way she would testify openly and honestly, in public, is in the event of a pardon by Trump, who has told reporters that such a move is within his rights but that he has not been not asked to make it. She welcomes the opportunity to share the truth and to dispel the many misconceptions and misstatements that have plagued this case from the beginning, they said. The information about a supposedly secret meeting in the Alps of Ukrainian military and government officials with representatives of the United States and Great Britain is fake and marks the beginning of another subversive information campaign by Russian special services against Ukraine, the Main Intelligence Agency of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine said. "On July 29, 2025, by order from the Kremlin, the Russian special services started the active phase of another subversive information campaign aimed at Ukraine's stability in the war. Propagandists of the highest ranks of the aggressor state of Russia, together with other numerous cesspool media resources of the Kremlin, are massively spreading disinformation about an alleged secret meeting, allegedly in the Alps, of Ukrainian military and government officials with representatives of the United States and Great Britain," the agency said in a Telegram message on Tuesday. The agency said the hastily concocted lie by Naryshkin, branded by the Foreign Intelligence Service of the aggressor state, Russia, is aimed at increasing social tension in Ukraine, sowing distrust within Ukraine's military and political leadership, diverting public attention from the war to the topic of elections, provoking internal discord, and weakening our country's ability to resist the Russian occupiers militarily. It is noted that a specific role in the new wave of information aggression against Ukraine is assigned by Russian special services to attacks against Ukrainian military intelligence. In particular, they broadcast fakes about the alleged involvement in drug trafficking of one of the servicemen of the Main Intelligence Agency units of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. "The Main Intelligence Agency of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reminds of information hygiene, calls not to spread Russian disinformation, and calls to focus on the fight against lying and criminal Russia wherever possible," the agency's press service said. Its time for the Portland City Council to revoke U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements permit to operate in South Waterfront, (Activists want City Council to close Portlands ICE detention facility. Can they? July 22). As widely reported, ICE has repeatedly violated a condition of the permit: that no one will be detained longer than 12 hours. Thats easily sufficient reason for our councilors to expel ICE, ending their violent and illegal seizures, detentions and deportment actions against people in our metro area, all performed with no regard for the victims legal status. Portland doesnt do everything right for example, weve failed again and again to provide housing for all our residents to live safely. But we have done many things right in Portland, and one of these was declaring ourselves a sanctuary city committed to resisting fascism and authoritarian violence. Our city council needs to take the next step by ejecting ICE from its current facility with the utmost urgency. Its up to Portland and every community of conscience to stand up this administrations breaching of civil rights. As German Lutheran pastor Martin Niemoller so eloquently said after WWII: First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a Jew. Then they came for meand there was no one left to speak for me. Aliza Earnshaw, Portland To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion. FILE - A Planned Parenthood sign is displayed on the outside of the clinic, Aug. 1, 2023, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File) AP Oregon and a coalition of other liberal-led states sued the Trump administration Tuesday over a provision in the Big Beautiful Bill that bars Planned Parenthood and other large nonprofit abortion providers from receiving Medicaid funding for a host of unrelated health care services. The measure has threatened clinics across the country that rely on federal funding to operate. Defunding Planned Parenthood is not about fiscal responsibility its about targeting healthcare providers that some politicians dont like, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield said in a statement. Planned Parenthood is where thousands of Oregonians go for cancer screenings, contraception, and basic medical care. Pulling Medicaid funding doesnt make that need disappear, it just makes it harder for people to stay healthy. California Attorney General Rob Bonta, who is helping to lead the litigation, called it a cruel, backdoor abortion ban that violates the law in multiple ways. The states challenge comes one day after Planned Parenthood won a major victory in its own lawsuit over the measure in Boston, where a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking the ban from taking effect against Planned Parenthood affiliates nationwide. Federal law already prohibits the use of federal Medicaid funding to pay for abortions, but the new defund provision in the bill passed by Congressional Republicans earlier this month goes further. It also bars nonprofit abortion providers that generated $800,000 or more in annual Medicaid revenue in 2023 from receiving any such funding for the next year including for services unrelated to abortion, such as annual checkups, cancer screenings, birth control and testing for sexually transmitted infections. Attorneys for the U.S. Department of Justice have argued that the measure stops federal subsidies for Big Abortion, that Congress under the constitution is free to decline to provide taxpayer funds to entities that provide abortions, and that Planned Parenthoods position should not hold sway over that of Congress. In announcing the states lawsuit Monday, Bontas office echoed Planned Parenthood officials in asserting that the provision specifically and illegally targets Planned Parenthood and its affiliate clinics calling it a direct attack on the healthcare access of millions of low-income Americans, disproportionally affecting women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and communities of color. Bontas office said the measure threatened $300 million in federal funding for clinics in California, where Planned Parenthood is the largest abortion provider, and jeopardized the stability of Planned Parenthoods 114 clinics across the state, which serve about 700,000 patients annually many of whom use Medi-Cal, the states version of Medicaid. In Oregon, nearly 60% of Planned Parenthood patients qualify for Medicaid funding through a state plan, according to Rayfields office. Planned Parenthood receives about $16.7 million annually in Medicaid reimbursements. This law is dangerous and unnecessary, Amy Handler, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwestern Oregon, said in a statement. The Trump administration and its backers in Congress are trying to make it harder to access care - meaning cancers will go undetected, STIs will go untreated, and patients wont get the birth control or abortion care they need to plan their families and futures. We look forward to working closely with the Attorney Generals office to protect access to care. In addition to Oregon and California, the lawsuit includes the attorneys general of Connecticut and New York. Joining them are Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and the attorneys general of Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. In their lawsuit, the states argue that the measure is unlawfully ambiguous and violates the spending powers of Congress by singling out Planned Parenthood for negative treatment, and that it will harm peoples health and increase the cost of Medicaid programs for states by more than $50 million over the next decade. In its lawsuit, Planned Parenthood also argued that the measure intentionally singled it and its affiliates out for punishment, in violation of their constitutional rights, including free speech. In granting Planned Parenthoods request for a preliminary injunction, U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani wrote Monday that she was not enjoining the federal government from regulating abortion and is not directing the federal government to fund elective abortions or any healthcare service not otherwise eligible for Medicaid coverage. Talwani, an Obama appointee, wrote that she also was not requiring the federal government to spend money not already appropriated for Medicaid or any other funds. Instead, Talwani wrote, her order blocks the Trump administration from targeting a specific group of entities Planned Parenthood Federation members for exclusion from reimbursements under the Medicaid program, as they were likely to prove that such targeted exclusion violates the United States Constitution. In a statement to The Los Angeles Times on Tuesday, White House spokesman Harrison Fields said the Big, Beautiful Bill was legally passed by both chambers of the Legislative Branch and signed into law by the Chief Executive, and Talwanis order granting the injunction was not only absurd but illogical and incorrect. It is orders like these that underscore the audacity of the lower courts as well as the chaos within the judicial branch. We look forward to ultimate victory on the issue, Fields said. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for additional comment on the states lawsuit. 2025 Los Angeles Times. Visit at latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Authorities say the unidentified man showed no obvious signs of trauma and may have been in the river for some time. 12 days ago The Kremlin's special services are conducting another information operation against Ukraine, the Main Intelligence Agency of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has said. "On July 29, 2025, by order from the Kremlin, the Russian special services began the active phase of another subversive information campaign aimed at Ukraine's stability in the war. Propagandists of the highest ranks of the aggressor state of Russia, together with other numerous cesspool media resources of the Kremlin, are massively spreading disinformation about a supposedly secret meeting in the Alps of Ukrainian military and state figures with representatives of the United States and Great Britain," the agency said on the Telegram channel. It is noted that the fake information spread by the Russian side is aimed at increasing public tension in Ukraine, sowing distrust within the military-political leadership of Ukraine, shifting public attention from the topic of war to the topic of elections, provoking discord and reducing the state's ability to provide armed resistance to the Russian occupiers. "Russian special services assign a special role in the new round of information aggression against Ukraine to attacks against Ukrainian military intelligence. In particular, they broadcast fakes about the alleged involvement in drug trafficking of one of the servicemen of the Intelligence Agency units of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine," the report reads. With apologies for contradicting the weird stickers and meme-obsessed teenagers youve been seeing for the last few years, birds are actually quite real. They arent robots built by the government to spy on you. But, at the risk of contradicting myself, their brains are computers. Let me explainor rather, let me sum up since there is too much. You probably know that birds are smarter than we give them credit for. Corvids like crows and ravens can be as smart as human children, with a shocking capacity to retain information. YouTuber and audio scientist Benn Jordan knows this, and he knows that the sounds birds make to communicate between themselves can be incredibly complex. But is it complex enough to retain and transmit digital information? The digital information of an image made and encoded by humans, perhaps? Turns out, yes! Over a few months, Jordan studied several species of birds to find complex birdsong, settling on the European starling for its intelligence and impressive ability to mimic sounds with the specific structure of its lungs and larynx. Specifically, he visited The Mouth, a semi-domesticated rescued starling owned by Sarah Tidwell, who has been around humans his whole life. Almost as a goof, Jordan drew a simple photo of a bird in a spectral synthesizer. (This is an extremely basic way of representing audible sounds as a 2D image.) Jordan then played the sounds corresponding to the image to The Mouth (the starling). While Jordan didnt immediately hear the bird repeat the sequence of sounds corresponding to the image during his visit to Tidwells home, after analyzing the recordings of his visit, he spotted something strange in the visual graph of the recordings. Benn Jordans original image and The Mouths audio recreation, visualized. Benn Jordan There was the bird drawing. The one that Jordan had drawn in the synthesizer days or weeks previously, reproduced in the starlings song, and showing up in a completely different visualization of the data. While the reproduction isnt digitally perfect, Jordan estimates that The Mouth effectively retained and re-transmitted 176 kilobytes of data in audio format. Not enough to replace your SSD, perhaps, but more than enough to transmit, say, a large text file. Oh crap, maybe the birds are spying on us after all. Bird mimicry isnt anything new, of course. And again, weve known for a while that birds can be much more intelligent than we previously assumed, especially when you expand the definition of intelligence beyond a human standard. But the ability of The Mouth to so accurately retain and then transmit data is incredible, and Jordans video is such a vivid, literal illustration of that ability. An entrance to the Grand Sierra Resort is closed after a shooting occurred at the resort in Reno, Nev., Monday, July 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Andy Barron) AP By Andy Barron and Rio Yamat, The Associated Press RENO, Nev. A gunman opened fire Monday outside the largest casino in Reno, Nevada, killing three people and wounding three others before police shot the suspect and arrested him, officials said. The suspect had no known connection to the victims, and it was unclear if he was a guest or an employee at the Grand Sierra Resort, one of Renos most prominent venues that has hosted concerts, sporting events and a campaign rally by President Donald Trumpbefore the 2024 election. Near the California border and just northeast of Lake Tahoe, the town is a popular summer tourist destination. Police were still trying to determine a motive for the shooting. Two victims were in critical condition, while one was treated and released from the hospital, said Chris Crawforth, the police chief of the neighboring town of Sparks whose department is leading the investigation. The shooting occurred around 7:30 a.m. when the gunman walked up to the casino-hotels valet parking area, pulled out a handgun and pointed it at a group of people, police said. His gun initially malfunctioned, but he quickly was able to get it to shoot multiple times before fleeing on foot through the parking lot where he encountered an armed casino security guard. Crawforth said the gunman opened fire on the guard, who returned fire as the shooter fled again. The suspect later shot at someone driving by in the parking lot, striking and killing the driver before officers arrived on the scene within three minutes of the first shots being fired. There was incredible, swift action that took place, Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve said, adding that it stopped the suspect from going into the casino-hotel to continue the rampage. Police respond to a shooting outside the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nev., Monday, July 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Andy Barron) AP The shooter had multiple firearm magazines, according to Crawforth. The suspect fired at Reno police officers, hitting a patrol vehicle. Multiple officers returned fire, striking the suspect, Crawforth said. The suspect, whose name was not released, remains in critical condition. Michael Sisco, 60, said he was in his room and about to head to the valet for his car when he heard popping sounds. He looked out his window and saw people screaming and running from the valet area. He said he saw a man holding his stomach and staggering before falling motionless next to a car. Sisco moved away from the window as the gunshots continued. A half hour after the incident I started shaking because I realized I couldve been there, he said. Thats exactly where I was going. Christina Martinez heard the shots just as she was stepping onto an elevator in the lobby, and they were still going off when she stepped out onto the 18th floor. Someone in a neighboring room told her there was a gunman right outside the main entrance, near where Martinez said she was getting coffee just moments before. I feel very blessed, but thats kind of why I had a panic attack, she said. I was like, Oh my God. I was just there. Hours after the shooting, the entrance inside the casino leading to the valet area was roped off to guests and privacy screens were placed in front of the glass doors to block the view outside. Police respond to a shooting outside the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nev., Monday, July 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Andy Barron) AP In addition to those who were killed and the people taken to the hospital, three more were treated for minor injuries at the resort, according to Devon Reese, chair of the Board of Health in northern Nevada. One person was grazed by a bullet on their pinky finger, one was treated for severe anxiety and one was injured while running, he said. One officer was injured from what was likely glass fragments, Reno Police Department Chief Kathryn Nance said. Tragedies like this are horrific for any community to endure, she said. More than a year ago, two men were charged with fatally shooting another man who was staying at the resort in January 2024. The Grand Sierra claims to have the biggest casino floor in northern Nevada and sits just a few blocks from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport. Its also one of the tallest buildings in the city, with nearly 2,000 hotel rooms. My heart breaks for the victims, their families, and our entire community. Reno is strong but we are not immune to the epidemic of gun violence gripping this nation, Reese said in a social media post. Yamat reported from Las Vegas, Nevada. Associated Press reporters Beatrice Dupuy in New York; Safiyah Riddle in Montgomery, Alabama; John Seewer in Toledo, Ohio; Hallie Golden in Seattle; and Julie Watson in San Diego contributed. James Craig wipes his face during opening arguments in his murder trial, as he is accused of killing his wife, at the Arapahoe District Court, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Centennial, Colo. (Stephen Swofford via Denver Gazette, Pool) AP By Colleen Slevin, The Associated Press DENVER The trial of James Craig, a Colorado dentist accused of killing his wife, Angela Craig, by gradually poisoning her, is wrapping up. Lawyers are set to deliver closing arguments Tuesday before jurors begin deliberations. Jurors have heard from some of Angela Craigs relatives and also women James Craig had been having affairs with, all called by prosecutors. James Craig didnt testify, and his lawyers didnt present any witnesses, which theyre not required to. Who was Angela Craig? Angela Craig, 43, was a mother of six children who friends and family say was devoted to her family. She was the youngest of 10 siblings herself and a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Described as organized and dependable, she had taken over her mothers role as the genealogist for her birth family, an important role in their faith. Her older brother Mark Pray said she had been happy and positive since she was a child. But her sister Toni Kofoed testified that her sister had confided in her about struggles she was having in her marriage. However, pushing back against defense suggestions that her sister may have killed herself, Kofoed said her sister had a broken heart but not a broken mind. What killed Angela Craig and how? Angela Craig died in 2023 during her third trip to the hospital in a little over a week. Toxicology tests later determined she died of poisoning from cyanide and tetrahydrozoline, an ingredient found in over-the-counter eye drops. Early on, James Craig had purchased a variety of poisons before his wifes death and had put some in the protein shakes he made for her, according to police. During the trial, prosecutors alleged that he also gave her a dose of cyanide as she lay in her hospital bed on March 15, 2023, as doctors tried to figure out what was ailing her. She was declared brain dead soon afterward and never recovered. Ryan Brackley, a lawyer for the prosecution, delivers his opening arguments during the murder trial for James Craig, accused of killing his wife, at the Arapahoe District Court, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Centennial, Colo. (Stephen Swofford via Denver Gazette, Pool) AP What does James Craig say? In a notes file later found on James Craigs phone by police, he said Angela Craig had asked him to help kill her with poison when he asked for a divorce after having affairs. In the document, which was labeled timeline, Craig said that he had eventually agreed to purchase and prepare poisons for her to take, but not administer them. Craig said that he had put cyanide in some of the antibiotic capsules she had been taking and also prepared a syringe containing cyanide. According to his timeline, Craig wrote that just before she had to go to the hospital on March 15, 2023, she must have ingested a mixture containing the tetrahydrozoline, the eye drop ingredient, because she became lethargic and weak, before then taking the antibiotic laced with cyanide that he said he prepared for her. Mark Pray, who was visiting to help the Craig family because of his sisters mysterious illness, testified that he gave Angela Craig the capsules after being instructed to do so by James Craig, who was not at home. Pray said his sister bent over and couldnt hold herself up after taking the medicine. He and his wife then took her to the hospital. What do investigators and the defense say? The lead investigator, Detective Bobbi Olson, testified that James Craigs timeline account differed from statements he had made to others about what had happened, including accusing Angela Craig of setting him up to make it look like he had killed her. Craig is also charged with trying to hire a fellow jail inmate to kill Olson. James Craig talks with his family from his seat before opening arguments in his murder trial, as he is accused of killing his wife, at the Arapahoe District Court, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Centennial, Colo. (Stephen Swofford via Denver Gazette, Pool) AP The defense argues that the evidence doesnt show that James Craig poisoned and killed his wife and have seemed to suggest that Angela Craig may have taken her own life. They introduced into evidence Angela Craigs journal in which she talks about the struggles in their marriage in previous years and her husbands infidelity. In one entry she wrote, He doesnt love me and I dont blame him. The journal ended in 2018 and did not include any mentions of suicide, Olson said. In opening statements, one of Craigs attorneys, Ashley Whitham, repeatedly described Angela Craig as broken, partly by Craigs infidelity and her desire to stay married, since they were part of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Noel and Liam Gallagher's older brother, Paul Gallagher, seen in this 1996 photo, has been charged with rape by British police. (Photo by Colin Davey/Getty Images) Getty Images The older brother of Liam and Noel Gallagher founders of the rock band Oasis has been charged with rape by British police. Paul Gallagher, 59, has also been charged with three counts of sexual assault and other violent offenses, as well as allegations of coercive and controlling behavior, three counts of intentional strangulation, two counts of making a threat to kill, and assault resulting in actual bodily harm, according to Rolling Stone. London police said the incidents took place between 2022 and 2024 and that a woman is being supported by specially-trained officers. Although he was never a member of his brothers band, Paul Gallagher co-wrote the book Brothers: From Childhood to Oasis - The Real Story, in 1997. Oasis known for such songs as Wonderwall and Champagne Supernova just kicked off its reunion tour, playing a series of dates in London. The band will travel to Scotland and Ireland and then North America. This is the first time Liam and Noel Gallagher have played together since the band initially broke up in During week, another EUR 400 mln to be deposited into accounts of drone manufacturers in Ukraine Zelenskyy During the week, another EUR 400 million will be deposited into the accounts of drone manufacturers in Ukraine under the Ukraine-Netherlands agreement, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said. "These days, agreements with our partners on funds for drones are being finalized. Another plus EUR 400 million for our Ukrainian companies, for our Ukrainian drone manufacturers will be deposited into the accounts of manufacturers in Ukraine during this week. Ukraine-Netherlands agreement," Zelenskyy said in an evening address on Tuesday. "We are fulfilling all tasks for the production of drones for this year and we are fulfilling them exactly as needed," he said. Erica Crawford was inducted into the Business Hall of Fame for Women Entrepreneurs in 2016, is on the Advisory Board of the New Zealand U.S. Council, and mentors young women in Wine and Business. Loveblock Wines Aiming for stardom in the wine industry was the last thing on the mind of Erica Crawford, whose 2022 Loveblock Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc is expected to soon make its U.S. debut through Pennsylvanias Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores. In her early 20s, the South African native was working as a research scientist at the University of Cape Towns famed Ischaemic Heart Research Unit (now the Hatter Institute). When she had spare time, per a 2019 interview published on the New Zealand Wine website, she explored wineries and new varietals that were right on our doorstep in Cape Town and Stellenbosch. Some of those wine farms are 300 years old; wine tourism has been well developed for a long time. I had the time of my life, she said. But that career path took a sharp turn during a trip to a wine festival with a friend, where she met a New Zealander named Kim Crawford. Three years later, she moved there, had two children, and as she described in the profile, started the Kim Crawford [wine] brand on $20,000 from the spare room of our little central Auckland home. It became an international hit and was purchased by Constellation, an international producer and marketer of wine, beer and spirits, in 2006. While it involved multiple producers, Kim Crawford soon became the biggest growth brand from that acquisition. Loveblock Farm has two distinct parts: the Woolshed and Hillside blocks. Woolshed and Triangle on the valley floor were planted in 2004, have aged free-draining alluvial soils, and are Certified Organic. The Hillside blocks are at 500 feet elevation with silt loam on clay soils that produces outstanding flavor. Loveblock Winery As the brand with her husbands name on the label was achieving worldwide recognition, becoming the biggest-selling New Zealand wine in the U.S. and Canada, she created her own line of wines called Pansy! Rose in 2002, a wine for the LGBT community. It was one of the better things I have done, she said in the interview. It was against the advice of many, but what a party that was! Two years later, she would purchase her first property, a 460-acre farm high above Marlborough and Cook Strait, which she told The Somm Journal helped strengthen a soft spot in an operation that already was excelling at winemaking. The couple left Constellation in 2008 and began looking for a project where they could see their commitment to sustainable and terroir-driven wines realized. They would fulfill that goal over the next several years, first by finding a 200-acre piece of land in Marlboroughs Awatere Valley, and then launching Loveblock in 2013, with a priority on organic and sustainable vineyard management and wine production. The name was inspired by the labor of love thats required to maintain a block of vines. If we were into it for the money, we certainly wouldnt be doing this, Erica told the Somm Journal. The growing terrain is incredibly challenging. We planted grapes where nobody has planted grapes before. Its windy, with difficult soil. We initially managed [the winemaking] just like we did [using fruit from] the valley floor, because we didnt know [better]. Erica Crawford brings heart, soul and viticultural expertise to Loveblock and Kim Crawford brings years of winemaking expertise, guided by the principals of organic and low impact farming. Together theyve created Loveblock. Loveblock Winery So what are a couple of the key things to know about Loveblock wines? Heres a short list: As a leader in sustainability, Loveblock treads lightly and all wines are made per organic and sustainability standards, certified or not. Limited yeast and fining materials are available to use, meaning mistake-free winemaking is required. Loveblock limits the use of sulphur and additives. All Loveblock wines are vegan-friendly. Loveblock wines are 100% estate-grown and bottled in a lightweight bottle. Organics and sustainability are at the heart of our wine and brand, and in our view, organic and ethical winegrowing is the way of the future, Erica Crawford said. With organic wine, its what you DONT put in that matters: no chemical pesticides or herbicides, less winery inputs, and a lot of blood, sweat and love. She told The Somm Journal that she adds that she believes the market is more accepting of organics today than it was five years ago. Its been a long road, but finally I can see the demand for organics, she said. Its about whats in the bottle, how a company conducts itself, and how it treats its people. Loveblock Tee is Certified Organic, single vineyard, vegan-friendly, and has no sulphur added. Loveblock Winery The Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc sources grapes from the Loveblock Farms Hillside block, sitting at 500 feet elevation, in Marlboroughs Awatere Valley. Its the lone sparkling on a list of wines that include Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Sauvignon Blanc. Fine Wine & Good Spirits will be the first retailer in the United States to carry it. Loveblock also makes what it calls Sauvignon Blanc Tee, which is Certified Organic, single vineyard, vegan-friendly, and has no sulphur added. Instead of sulphur, the traditional preservative used in winemaking, green tea tannin extract is used as a natural antioxidant to preserve the wine. Green tea (Camellia sinensis) is known for its antioxidant properties and provides appropriate protection in winemaking against oxidation and spoilage. Tee translates to tea in Afrikaans, a nod to Ericas South African heritage (and her second language) and the green tea tannin extract. Sulfites have been used for so long, and its very effective in preserving wine, but its also quite a blunt instrument, she said in a training video. By using a lighter touch to protect the wine, and using a natural source, it actually really allows the wine to show its true colors. Whats also unique are the Loveblock labels, which feature the wild dandelion, the only flower to represent the three celestial bodies of the sun, moon and the stars. The bright yellow flower and the cloud-like head are brought together at the root to illustrate how deeply rooted Loveblock is to nature and sustaining the land for future generations. Together, the sun and moon symbolize unity and cooperation amid diversity, a key phenomenon in biodynamics and one that is only seen in natures ecosystem. Fine Wine & Good Spirits will be the first in the U.S. to carry the 2022 Loveblock Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc. Loveblock Winery As for Crawfords orbit, shes not only busy as an organic farmer and recognized as an expert in sustainability, in addition to having developed her expertise as a marketer, but she shares that experience and those skills by mentoring young women. Through my lifetime, which is a long one, when I was young, there were certain expectations that were just put on women, she told interviewer Laurie Forster on a podcast called The Sipping Point in November 2024. Crawford was inducted into the Business Hall of Fame for Women Entrepreneurs in 2016 and is a member of the Global Women NZ Advisory Board. And we worked pretty hard to change some things, but still, sometimes its the assumed characteristic and the assumed duties that are placed on women. And sometimes its just a look or an exclusion, and its most often unconscious vibes. I dont care [what it is], I call it out. Pa. winery owners, legislators, the Pa. Liquor Control Board and the Department of Ag were all represented at Monday's roundtable. It took place at Nissley Vineyards in Lancaster County. Jim Stanton There are more than 570 owners of Pennsylvania limited winery licenses. At last count, around 85 of them are located outside the state, with some in far-flung locations such as Italy, Australia, Peru, France and Argentina. Because they dont make anything in the state, they dont pay the 20-cents-a-gallon tax thats assessed on producers to promote the industry. Yet, the Pennsylvania Wine Association (PWA) is asked to market all Pa. wineries, whether they make their wine here or not. Talk about rubbing salt in the wound, one winery owner told PennLive. Of the more than 400 wineries across the state, only around 130 own or maintain a vineyard. That means more than half are buying grapes from off-site sources, including out-of-state growers. A number of them purchase their wine premade from out of the state or country, slap a label on it, and call it their own. Much of that data comes from lists provided annually by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, supplemented by anecdotes provided recently by several winery owners who own vineyards (and devote the time and cost that accompany that maintenance). At a time when wine and other alcoholic beverages are already seeing a decline in interest, particularly from young adults, and with a grape glut prompting the industry in California to pull out thousands of acres of vines over the past several years, the problems with licensing and enforcement only exacerbate those trying to make a living making wines and growing grapes in Pennsylvania. Its against that backdrop that several of the states prominent wine producers, a dozen members of the legislature, and representatives from the Pa. Liquor Control Board and the Department of Agriculture met Monday for a first-of-its-kind roundtable at one of the states oldest wineries and one of its prettiest venues. Jonas Nissley, the president and general manager of the winery, took the group to the edge of one vineyard, where Catawba grapes were growing. James Stanton Among the topics they discussed were regulation, climate change, and unfair out-of-state competition at the Monday morning event co-hosted by the House Majority Policy Committee and Central PA House Delegation. We heard loud and clear from winemakers about some of the issues they are facing, Rep. Manny Guzman, who represents portions of Berks County and serves as the Chairman of the Central PA House Delegation, said later. Winemakers are looking for legislation to support, promote and protect our homegrown wines and local businesses. Jonas Nissley, the president and general manager of Nissley Vineyards in Bainbridge, provided the venue and a tour of the vineyard and production area in addition to kicking off the roundtable on a shady back patio beside a stage where big bands have been entertaining visitors for more than 40 years of summer concerts. Jonas is the grandson of Richard Dick Nissley, who opened Nissley Vineyards with his son John in 1978. Zach Waltz, the winemaker and director of operations at Waltz Vineyard Estate Winery in nearby Manheim, and Lexe Waltz, the event and marketing manager, also attended, two more examples of the next generation of Pa. winery leadership. They grew up watching their parents, Kimberly and Jan, open the Waltz tasting room in 2009 and build it into one of the top producers in the region. They were joined by Bob Mazza and his wife, Kathie, part of the old guard, so to speak. Bob is the founder and CEO of Mazza Vineyards , which began in 1972 and operates in North East in Erie County. His impact on Pa. wine has been enormous over the past five decades, including his involvement in bringing the wine competition and wine sampling and sales to the Pennsylvania Farm Show. He also founded Wine Pennsylvania (WPA) several years ago, a group that provides the state industry with a legislative presence while the larger PWA (Pa. Wine Association) focuses on marketing and promotion. Pennsylvania ranks fourth in the nation for wine production, up from fifth in 2018. More than 400 wineries operate more than 14,000 acres of vineyards across the state, producing more than 2 million gallons of wine each year. Tourism related to the states wineries helps generate hundreds of millions of dollars in tourism revenue each year. The 'roundtable' at Nissley Vineyards, on a patio by the stage where the bands have played on Saturday nights for several decades. Jim Stanton According to a recent study by the Pa. Department of Agriculture, the grape and wine industry supports more than 10,700 jobs, pays more than $518 million in wages, and directly contributes more than $1.7 billion to the states economy each year. Traditional winemaking is an economic driver across our state, not only in the sale of their products but also in their contributions to tourism and hospitality, Rep. Dan Deasy, who represents portions of Allegheny County and serves as the majority chair of the House Liquor Control Committee, said. We came here today to listen and learn, because we want our local businesses to succeed and grow. Added Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, who represents portions of Erie County and serves as the chairman of the House Majority Policy Committee, When you talk to traditional winemakers in Pennsylvania, you find out very quickly these are valuable local businesses, and oftentimes family-owned businesses. We co-hosted this event because we wanted to learn about their needs as they attempt to grow their businesses and Pennsylvanias economy. Some of the problems discussed extend far beyond Pennsylvania, both across the country and around the world. Sales are down as millennials and Gen Z have left wine or alcohol altogether: In 2023, Nielsen data showed 45% of Gen Zers over 21 said they had never drunk alcohol. One industry analyst told the San Francisco Chronicle in 2022 that he saw wine consumption by volume declining 20% in the next decade. Youre looking at a cliff, he said. Toss in climate change, economic pressures and a host of other challenges, and you understand the frustration heard from the producers who attended. Said Zach Waltz, standing to speak to the group during the roundtable: I really feel that were in a tough predicament right now with the legislation the way it is. The gravity of the situation is evolving worse and worse as time goes on, and were watching all these out-of-state and out-of-country wineries pour into our state [while] having the exact same benefits we were promised as Pa. wineries through Act 39, which was passed in 2016 and is commonly associated with changes to the Liquor Code and the expansion of wine and alcohol sales. He continued, This is a big, big problem for our industry here, and it is unique in a sense to Pennsylvania right now. A lot of the states around us have designed their legislation to protect from situations like this. They have different licenses that they are protecting and enforcing, that a winery is using fruit from that state, and right now we dont have that enforcement. One can trace the beginning of this problem back to 2005 and the Supreme Court ruling in the Granholm vs. Heald case that direct-to-consumer (DtC) shipping laws that were available only to in-state wineries, but not out-of-state ones, were unconstitutionally discriminatory. Ultimately, that gave out-of-state wineries access to limited winery licenses, Mazza explained during his half-hour presentation to the assembled group. Per his list on a two-page collection of talking points handed out to the legislators: These out-of-state producers now benefit from self-distribution privileges without using Pennsylvania grapes. This created an uneven playing field as out-of-state wineries enjoy the benefits of the limited winery license without supporting Pennsylvania agriculture. Nissley's top-of-the-line Heritage Series includes Chardonnay, Cab Franc, Chambourcin and a red blend called Keystone. Jim Stanton Any qualifying in-state or out-of-state winery that produces less than 200,000 gallons per year can purchase a Pennsylvania limited winery license, and with that can produce alcoholic ciders, wines, meads, wine coolers and fermented fruit beverages. Each limited winery may have up to five board-approved locations and up to two storage locations. The annual fee is $700, with a $30 filing fee tacked on. No vineyard is required, which differs from many states, including three that surround Pennsylvania. Maryland: The Class 4 Farm Winery license: 51% Maryland ingredients or 20 acres of grapes/fruit under your control (own or rent). The Class 3 Winery license doesnt require either of those things, but it has very limited tasting room/sales opportunities New Jersey: The farm license requires 3 acres of fruit to be farmed by the winery, and the winery must use at least 51% New Jersey fruit for the first five years and then after that, the federal minimum to call it N.J. wine (75%). The plenary license requires 3 acres of fruit to be farmed by the winery, and the owner can get grapes/fruit from anywhere. There are no New Jersey limits. New York: A New York State farm winery license , issued by the NYSLA, allows for the manufacturing and sale of wine on a farm within New York. This license is part of the broader Craft Manufacturer licenses available. It is specifically designed for individuals passionate about both agriculture and winemaking. In essence, a farm winery license is tied to the concept of agricultural production on a farm, meaning that the location must be a working farm where grapes or other fruits used in winemaking are cultivated. The initial application cost is $525 for a 36-month license. A New York State winery license allows for the production of wine, wine products, and mead, has no cap on production volume, and no New York State ingredient requirements as to its products. A winery may sell its own wine and wine products, and any New York State labeled wine, any New York State labeled wine products, and any New York State labeled cider for consumption on the premises and to go. The initial application cost is $3,025 for a 36-month license. Nissley said Sunday night, ahead of the meeting, that he was looking forward to having the chance to provide answers to the questions his guests would have. They actually asked us to do this, he said. We did not request this. ... they want to hear what challenges were facing. The events on Monday began with a tour of the vineyard and production area at Nissley Vineyards before the roundtable commenced. Jim Stanton By Monday afternoon, he looked relieved and elated, both at the size of the turnout, including media, and the interest shown in the complaints that he, Waltz and Mazza expressed and the requests they made. So, now what? 1, Create legislation, which Mazza said will get underway at the same time the WPA welcomes Versant Strategies as its new legislative representative on Aug. 1. 2, A legislative hearing, which Deasy suggested could come as early as this fall. 3, Reaching a consensus that would achieve as many of the regulatory goals as possible in a bill that gets passed by the legislature. 4, Getting the enforcement that some in the industry dont feel exists now. Waltz said afterward its not a matter of trying to eliminate the competition, but rather to protect the agriculture and give some benefit if people are conducting ag within your state instead of outside of the state. There has to be some kind of differentiator there. And how was he feeling now that this was finished? Overall, anxious. I hope this year we can get something done, he said. Its desperate. I know people who are ready to throw in the towel. They just see it getting worse progressively every year. This money is part of the state's Money Match program, which was signed into being by Gov. Josh Shapiro last year. Getty Images Tens of thousands of people in Pennsylvania will be receiving checks in the mail next month. And before anyone assumes that these checks are part of a scam, rest assured that they are, in fact, completely legitimate. A press release sent out by the state Treasury Department explains that these checks which can amount to as much as $500 are part of the Pennsylvania Money Match program. For those unfamiliar, the Money Match program allows the Treasury Department to automatically send unclaimed property to its rightful owners. This motion was approved unanimously by the General Assembly and signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro last year. Its exciting to see so many people getting money they didnt know they had, said Garrity. Its now important that people cash these checks. We want everyone to know this is a real program and this is real money. Every dollar we return to Pennsylvania families is money they can use to buy groceries, fill up their cars with gas, or pay their rent or mortgage. This money belongs to them, not the state. State Treasurer Stacy Garrify confirmed via the release that the second round of over 39,000 Money Match checks totaling a whopping $9.2 million were sent out earlier this summmer. The next batch an estimated 40,000 letters will be released in August. Pennsylvania is doing right by its workers and taxpayers by automatically returning more than $10 million in unclaimed property back to its right owners through the first two rounds of the Money Match program, added state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro. Anytime we can cut red tape and return money to taxpayers is a reason to celebrate. As a prime sponsor of the Money Match program, Im working with my House and Senate colleagues to expand this initiative and return even more money to the people of our commonwealth. Its a commonsense approach to giving back the more than $5 billion in unclaimed property sitting in the PA Treasury. For more information about the Pennsylvania Money Match program, please click here. Faithful wait for the start of Pope Leo XIV's Angelus noon prayer in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, July 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia) AP Pope Leo XIV is starting his pontificate with a complicated arithmetic problem. The Vatican has been running a 50 million to 60 million euro structural deficit for years and is facing a 1 billion euro pension fund shortfall, according to The Associated Press, one of the new popes biggest challenges among many. But the Chicago-born math major, who graduated from Villanova University in suburban Philly in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, was given some numbers recently that made his problem a bit easier to solve. The office that manages Vatican investments and real estate on Monday reported a profit of 62 million euros (around $63 million) in 2024, up 16 million euros from 2023. Its one of the best results in years, according to the AP. The Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA) moved 46 million euros of the profit to fund the Holy Sees operating costs. Around 10.5 million euros in profit came from positive returns on investments, while its real estate profits equaled its 2023 results, the report said. For sure, the Vatican isnt lacking for real estate, with 4,234 properties in Italy and 1,200 more in London, Paris, Geneva and Lausanne, Switzerland, although all of that comes with an asterisk. Only about one-fifth are rented at fair market value, the story said, and another 70% generate no income because they house Vatican or other church offices, negating any potential profit. The remaining 11% are rented at reduced rents to Vatican employees. Faithful kneel in prayer proper to the start of Pope Leo XIV's Angelus noon prayer in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, July 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia) AP In 2024, these properties only produced 35 million euros in profit, basically equal to the profit of 2023. Thats unlikely to improve, at least in the short term. While financial analysts have long identified the undervalued real estate as a source of potential revenue, APSA hasnt had the money to invest in renovations that would allow for higher rents. At the same time, maintaining the properties is costing more as they age. In 2024, APSA spent 3.8 million euros just on maintenance. Palestinians react after carrying the bodies of those killed while trying to reach aid trucks entering northern Gaza through the Zikim crossing with Israel, at Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, Sunday, July 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi, file) AP By WAFAA SHURAFA and SAMY MAGDY, The Associated Press DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) Over 60,000 Palestinians have been killed in the 21-month Israel-Hamas war, Gazas Health Ministry said Tuesday. The ministry, part of the Hamas-run government, said the death toll has climbed to to 60,034, with another 145,870 people wounded since Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, attack. It did not say how many were civilians or militants, but has said women and children make up around half the dead. The ministry is staffed by medical professionals. The United Nations and other independent experts view its figures as the most reliable count of casualties. Israels offensive has destroyed vast areas of Gaza, displaced around 90% of the population and caused a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with experts warning of famine. Palestinians killed trying to get aid As international organizations warn of a worst-case scenario of famine, Israel continued to strike the Gaza Strip, killing at least 70 Palestinians in the past day, according to local hospitals. More than half were killed while attempting to access aid, hospitals said, and includes a rising toll from a deadly incident on Monday as people attempted to access aid from a truck convoy passing through the southern Gaza Strip. Local hospitals said they received the bodies of an additional 33 people who were killed by gunfire around an aid convoy in southern Gaza on Monday, bringing the total from the single incident to 58. The Israeli military did not comment on the shooting. Israel says it only targets militants and takes extraordinary measures to avoid harming civilians. It blames civilian deaths on Hamas because the militants operate in populated areas. The military said it targeted Hamas military infrastructure over the past day including rocket launchers, weapons storage facilities and tunnels. An additional seven Palestinians were killed while attempting to access aid near the American and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Fund site in central Gaza, according to local hospitals. Neither GHF nor the Israeli military commented on the shooting, but the Israeli military has said in the past it only fires warning shots if troops feel threatened and GHF has said their contractors havent fired at civilians. Air strikes also targeted tents hosting displaced people in the central city of Nuseirat, killing 30 people, including 12 children and 14 women, according to Al-Awda hospital. The strikes come as international organizations continue to warn about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, which has teetered on the brink of famine for two years. Recent developments have dramatically worsened the situation, according to a report by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC. Somoud Wahdan looks at the camera as she sits with her child in an area in the northern Gaza Strip, while waiting for trucks with humanitarian aid to arrive, in Gaza City, Friday, July 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana) AP Israel rejects claims of starvation policies Israeli foreign minister Gideon Saar on Tuesday rejected claims of starvation policies in Gaza and said the focus on starvation is a distorted campaign of international pressure. This pressure is directly sabotaging the chances for a ceasefire and hostage deal, it is only pushing towards military escalation by hardening Hamass stance, he said. Both the U.S. and Israel have recalled their negotiating teams over the past week as negotiations seem to have stalled. Hamas-led militants killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in the attack that sparked the war, and abducted another 251. They are still holding 50 captives, around 20 believed to be alive, after most of the rest were released in ceasefires or other deals. The war took a major turn in early March when Israel imposed a complete 2 month blockade, barring the entry of all food, medicine, fuel and other goods. Weeks later, Israel ended a ceasefire with a surprise bombardment and began seizing large areas of Gaza, measures it said were aimed at pressuring Hamas to release more hostages. At least 8,867 Palestinians have been killed since then. Israel eased the blockade in May, but U.N. agencies say it hasnt allowed nearly enough aid to enter and that they have struggled to deliver it because of Israeli restrictions and the breakdown of law and order. An alternative Israeli-backed system run by an American contractor has been marred by violence and controversy. Tents sheltering displaced Palestinians are seen amid war-damaged infrastructure in Gaza City, Thursday, July 17, 2025. (Jehad Alshrafi, Associated Press, file) AP Gutted health system, daily strikes and a hunger crisis Near-daily Israeli strikes have hit schools, shelters, hospitals and other civilian buildings, killing men, women and children. The military usually says it was targeting militants hiding out among civilians, while occasionally acknowledging mistakes. Israels offensive and its blockade have also gutted Gazas health system, with several hospitals having shut down and others only partially functioning as they receive waves of war-wounded. The hunger crisis has also taken its toll. The World Health Organization says more than 60 people have died this month from malnutrition-related causes, including 24 children under five. Overall, 88 children died of causes related to malnutrition since the start of the war, and 58 adults died this month, also on malnutrition-related causes, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. During hunger crises, people can die from malnutrition or from common illnesses or injuries that the body is not strong enough to fight. The ministry doesnt include hunger-related deaths in its overall toll. By Cara Anna, The Associated Press Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says no one in Gaza is starving: There is no policy of starvation in Gaza, and there is no starvation in Gaza. We enable humanitarian aid throughout the duration of the war to enter Gaza otherwise, there would be no Gazans. President Donald Trump on Monday said he disagrees with Netanyahus claim of no starvation in Gaza, noting the images emerging of emaciated people: Those children look very hungry. After international pressure, Israel over the weekend announced humanitarian pauses, airdrops and other measures meant to allow more aid to Palestinians in Gaza. But people there say little or nothing has changed on the ground. The U.N. has described it as a one-week scale-up of aid, and Israel has not said how long these latest measures would last. This aid, delivered in this way, is an insult to the Palestinian people, said Hasan Al-Zalaan, who was at the site of an airdrop as some fought over the supplies and crushed cans of chickpeas littered the ground. Israel asserts that Hamas is the reason aid isnt reaching Palestinians in Gaza and accuses its militants of siphoning off aid to support its rule in the territory. The U.N. denies that looting of aid is systematic and that it lessens or ends entirely when enough aid is allowed to enter Gaza. Heres what we know: Deaths are increasing The World Health Organization said Sunday there have been 63 malnutrition-related deaths in Gaza this month, including 24 children under the age of 5 up from 11 deaths total the previous six months of the year. CORRECTS CAUSE OF DEATH Palestinians carry the body of a man who was hit by a truck while attempting to reach a humanitarian aid convoy that entered Gaza City from the northern Gaza Strip, Saturday, July 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana) AP Gazas Health Ministry puts the number even higher, reporting 82 deaths this month of malnutrition-related causes: 24 children and 58 adults. It said Monday that 14 deaths were reported in the past 24 hours. The ministry, which operates under the Hamas government, is headed by medical professionals and is seen by the U.N. as the most reliable source of data on casualties. U.N. agencies also often confirm numbers through other partners on the ground. The Patients Friends Hospital, the main emergency center for malnourished kids in northern Gaza, says this month it saw for the first time malnutrition deaths in children who had no preexisting conditions. Some adults who died suffered from such illnesses as diabetes or had heart or kidney ailments made worse by starvation, according to Gaza medical officials. The WHO also says acute malnutrition in northern Gaza tripled this month, reaching nearly one in five children under 5 years old, and has doubled in central and southern Gaza. The U.N. says Gazas only four specialized treatment centers for malnutrition are overwhelmed. The leading international authority on food crises, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, has warned of famine for months in Gaza but has not formally declared one, citing the lack of data as Israel restricts access to the territory. Somoud Wahdan looks at the camera as she sits with her child in an area in the northern Gaza Strip, while waiting for trucks with humanitarian aid to arrive, in Gaza City, Friday, July 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana) AP Aid trucks are swarmed by hungry people The measures announced by Israel late Saturday include 10-hour daily humanitarian pauses in fighting in three heavily populated areas, so that U.N. trucks can more more easily distribute food. Still, U.N. World Food Program spokesperson Martin Penner said the agencys 55 trucks of aid that entered Gaza on Monday via the crossings of Zikim and Kerem Shalom were looted by starving people before they reached WFP warehouses. Experts say that airdrops, another measure Israel announced, are insufficient for the immense need in Gaza and dangerous to people on the ground. Israels military says 48 food packages were dropped Sunday and Monday. Palestinians say they want a full return to the U.N.-led aid distribution system that was in place throughout the war, rather than the Israeli-backed mechanism that began in May. Witnesses and health workers say Israeli forces have killed hundreds by opening fire on Palestinians trying to reach those food distribution hubs or while crowding around entering aid trucks. Israels military says it has fired warning shots to disperse threats. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks to the audience at a conference in Jerusalem, Sunday, July 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg) AP The U.N. and partners say that the best way to bring food into Gaza is by truck, and they have called repeatedly for Israel to loosen restrictions on their entry. A truck carries roughly 19 tons of supplies. Israels military says that as of July 21, 95,435 trucks of aid have entered Gaza since the war began. Thats an average of 146 trucks per day, and far below the 500 to 600 trucks per day that the U.N. says are needed. The rate has sometimes been as low as half of that for several months at a time. Nothing went in for 2 1/2 months starting in March because Israel imposed a complete blockade on food, fuel and other supplies entering Gaza. Delivering aid is difficult and slow The U.N. says that delivering the aid that is allowed into Gaza has become increasingly difficult. Yazan Abu Ful, a 2-year-old malnourished child, poses for a photo at his family home in the Shati refugee camp, in Gaza City on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi) AP When aid enters, it is left just inside the border in Gaza, and the U.N. must get Israeli military permission to send trucks to pick it up. But the U.N. says the military has denied or impeded just over half the movement requests for its trucks in the past three months. If the U.N. succeeds in picking up the aid, hungry crowds and armed gangs swarm the convoys and strip them of supplies. The Hamas-run civilian police once provided security along some routes, but that stopped after Israel targeted them with airstrikes. Associated Press writers Samy Magdy in Cairo and Melanie Lidman in Kfar Saba, Israel, contributed. Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war. A pregnant 23-year-old Amish woman was killed inside her home in rural northwestern Pennsylvania in 2024. Her killer has been sentenced to life in prison. (Craig Rouse, WJET via AP, file) (Craig Rouse, WJET via AP) By Mike Crowley, The Meadville Tribune, Pa. (TNS) The Corry man who murdered a 23-year-old Amish woman and her unborn child while her two children were nearby in their Sparta Township home was sentenced to two consecutive life terms in state prison on Monday. Consecutive terms of life without parole for 53-year-old Shawn Cranston were appropriate, Judge Francis Schultz said, given the brutal nature of the killings and the fact that there were two victims. Youve ruined lives, Schultz told Cranston before imposing the sentence. You deserve every second of the sentence Im about to give. Schultz later stated explicitly that the sentence was intended to keep Cranston in prison for the rest of his life and stated, No commutation of this sentence should ever occur. A sign on the sidewalk outside an antique store in Spartansburg, Pa., on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. Shawn C. Cranston was convicted of killing a pregnant Amish woman near the town. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, file) AP Cranston was found guilty of murder of the first degree, second degree murder of an unborn child, burglary and criminal trespass after a four-day trial in Crawford County Court of Common Pleas that ended June 12. A jury of seven women and five men deliberated just over three hours in reaching the verdict. State sentencing guidelines mandated sentences of life without parole for the murder charges, though Schultz could have directed the terms to run concurrently. Attorney General Dave Sunday, whose office prosecuted the case against Cranston, applauded the sentence in a statement released shortly after the hearing. This defendant committed a truly evil act, and is now held fully accountable as he will spend the rest of his life behind bars without an opportunity to ever again harm another person in free society, Sunday said. I commend the dedicated investigators and prosecutors for their work, and the jury that reached an appropriate verdict. My thoughts are with the victims family, whose quiet strength throughout the process has been inspiring. Shawn C. Cranston was convicted of killing a pregnant Amish woman inside her Pennsylvania home in 2024. (Crawford County Correctional Facility via AP, file) AP Cranston entered Bylers home on Fish Flats Road, about 3.5 miles south of Spartansburg, just after 10 a.m. Feb. 26, 2024, in what prosecutors described as one in a series of similar burglaries. Instead of the empty home he anticipated, Cranston found Byler home with her two children, a boy who was 3 and a girl who was 2, according to trial testimony. He stabbed her, inflicting nine knife wounds to her neck, then shot her in the forehead, according to testimony and evidence presented at the trial. He left her on the floor of her home. Bylers female fetus, which was approximately 21 to 25 weeks along, died about four to six minutes later. Bylers other children were not physically harmed in the attack. In addition to the consecutive life terms, Cranston was ordered to pay a fine of $10,000 and costs of prosecution for Bylers murder and a fine of $10,000 for the murder of her fetus. He was also sentenced to six to 20 years on the first-degree felony burglary charge and 10 months to seven years on the third-degree felony criminal trespass charge. Schultz instructed that the sentences for burglary and criminal trespass run concurrently The hearing took place in front of an audience of about 20 people, including at least four members of the media and six members of the Amish community. Several of Bylers relatives were present but did not address the court. Bylers parents submitted victim impact letters. Calling Cranstons crimes senseless, Assistant Chief Deputy Attorney General Evan Lowry recalled Byler as a woman who was dedicated to her family and took pride in keeping a tidy home. Addressing Rebekah Bylers husband, Andy Byler, and her parents, Schultz offered his condolences and expressed hope that they would be able to focus on Rebekahs life and how she lived rather than her death. The three-story apartment complex at 501 North 8th St. in Reading remained fenced off July 18 after the south wall collapsed July 5. Hanna Holthaus / Spotlight PA Story by Hanna Holthaus of Spotlight PA This story was produced by the Berks County bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom. Sign up for Good Day, Berks, a daily dose of essential local stories at spotlightpa.org/newsletters/gooddayberks. READING Six years had passed since the City of Reading inspected a three-floor apartment building on the corner of Green and North 8th. Code inspectors were scheduled to visit this August until its south wall collapsed in July. By its own ordinance code, the city is supposed to inspect multifamily and rental properties every two to five years. It has not been able to meet the goal because of funding and staffing shortages, new Community Development Director David Barr told the City Council July 14. The building at 501 North 8th Street received 26 deficiencies in its 2019 inspection, Barr said. In general, deficiencies are problems in or around the home that range in severity, from overgrown weeds and loose trash to problems with the foundation. The problems were resolved by February 2020, and none involved the south wall. The issues must have arisen unnoticed in the years since, he said. Reading officials have routinely cautioned residents about the citys aging housing stock and need for maintenance, and at least three row homes have partially collapsed this year. Not all problems can be easily spotted or handled by homeowners alone, but there can be warning signs, a civil engineer with Temple University told Spotlight PA. Mehdi Khanzadeh Moradllo showed Spotlight PA cracks under the south wall windows and distress around the chimney in a Google Maps photo taken before the collapse. Its possible moisture slipped through the cracks and contributed to the structural damage, he said. The building is owned by local company Windsor Way Holdings. Co-owner Alex Betances did not respond to Spotlight PAs request for comment. Spotlight PA consulted with Khanzadeh Moradllo, city employees, and code inspectors about steps Reading residents can take if they feel the conditions of their or neighboring homes are becoming unsafe. Heres what they said: What are some visual signs of home distress? Cracks along inside and outside walls can be the easiest things to spot, Khanzadeh Moradllo said. Other signs include: Flaked or peeling concrete, called spalding or delamination. A chimney pulling away from the home, called disjointment. Efflorescence , a white or off-white powdery substance that develops on surfaces like brick. Moisture in the building. Rust or corrosion. Timber decay from moisture or insects, like termites, which is normally most easily seen in basements. Bulging or bowing walls or ceilings. Roof leaks. Crumbling, missing, or cracked mortar. If I see a crack on the outside of my apartment, is it in danger of collapsing? Not always. The size and depth of the cracks can indicate how significant a problem is. Its not going to be over the next day, this is going to collapse, Khanzadeh Moradllo said. But those are initial, visual kinds of indications that you need to pay attention. Can I fix a crack in my apartment myself? Do I need a professional? A hair crack in the plaster is not cause for panic. Landlords are not required to make aesthetic changes under state law. Residents may be able to make cosmetic changes themselves if allowed in their lease. Larger issues, such as a heavy roof leak or leaning chimney, should be handled by a professional, especially if the dwelling is a rental. There may be deeper problems within the walls that residents cannot see. When do I need to tell my landlord about cracks in my apartment? Renters should inform their landlords of any damages immediately, especially cracks or moisture damage. They should also ask about previous damages or repairs before signing a lease. My immediate neighbors homes have cracks. Should I be worried? Neighboring buildings can have significant impacts on each other, especially rowhomes. Residents can report any concerns to the citys code enforcement department, which sends inspectors to the property and notifies the owner of any potential problems. Theres not enough clearance between this building, because, again, theyve been built a hundred years ago, right? Khanzadeh Moradllo said. And they were not thinking about certain code requirements we have right now. My landlord refuses to fix safety issues. What can I do? The Housing Equality Center of Pennsylvania offers a renters guide in English and Spanish that features sample letters tenants can send to inform a landlord of issues in their building. The manual lists a number of options if the landlord does not respond, including resources for low-cost legal advice, steps outlining how to withhold partial rent, and information on terminating a lease because the residence is inhabitable. Landlords are not required by Pennsylvania law to make cosmetic repairs. However, they have to address safety conditions if any problems make the unit legally inhabitable, including a leaky roof, unsafe floor, and structural issues. The center advises tenants to keep written and photographic documentation of all communication and issues with the home. Landlords must be given a reasonable amount of time to fix the problem, according to Pennsylvania legal precedent, but reasonable varies and depends on the severity of the issue. Tenants must be able to prove that the landlord was unwilling or unable to fix the problem. Tenants should seek legal advice when breaking a lease or withholding rent because a landlord can take them to court for missed payments. According to Readings ordinance code, landlords cannot evict a tenant in retaliation for reporting a code violation. How do I report possible safety issues to the City of Reading? Residents can report concerns to the citys Citizens Service Center at 877-727-3234 or on the Reading 311 mobile application, which is free to use. What can the City of Reading do? The city will conduct an inspection after a complaint is filed. If the inspection finds an issue such as a safety problem, graffiti, nonoperational locks, or other violations outlined in the citys ordinance code the landlord may receive a warning or notice. The landlord will be given a time frame to fix the issues, and risks fines and liens against the property if the deadline isnt met. If the city corrects any of the propertys issues, it charges the landlord, not the tenant. BEFORE YOU GO If you learned something from this article, pay it forward and contribute to Spotlight PA at spotlightpa.org/donate. Spotlight PA is funded by foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results. A man has been charged for vandalizing an office of Pa. U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly. Photos courtesy of U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly's office. U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly's office Police in western Pennsylvania have charged a man with vandalizing a Republican congressmans office over the weekend. Hermitage City Police Chief Adam Piccirillo told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review that Joe Lemons, a 47-year-old Sharon resident, had been charged in the incident at U.S. Rep. Mike Kellys office in Mercer County. According to online court records, Lemons has been charged with criminal mischief and harassment, both misdemeanors. He has an arraignment and preliminary hearing scheduled for Aug. 14. Final determination on criminal charges and primary prosecutorial jurisdiction is pending further consultation with (the U.S.) Capitol Police and the Mercer County District Attorneys Office, Piccirillo told the Tribune-Review in an email. Kellys office was vandalized with offensive language and criticisms of the GOP painted in red across the glass front doors and windows. Kelly, a strong supporter of President Donald Trump, shared photos online showing the vandalism included ass kisser liar being painted on the front door and child rape and GOP = racism, rape, child rape, cover up on the front windows. A spokesman for Kelly said the graffiti was removed over the weekend. The child rape and cover up accusations apparently refer to the ongoing controversy involving a supposed list owned by child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein that names business and political leaders, including Trump, who may have attended sex parties with girls and young women. Editors Note: Cameron Brown, with the organization 50501, will not be a speaker in the PA Impact Forum at Kareems Mission. President Donald Trumps proposals to cut Medicaid, food assistance and federal support for education is not just a bill before Congress. Its now law. And whether you support the cuts or are among the millions who will suffer because of them, their impact will soon be felt in Pennsylvania and throughout the nation. Xinjiang's two railway ports see over 10,000 China-Europe freight train trips in 2025 Xinhua) 09:03, July 29, 2025 An aerial drone photo taken on Dec. 25, 2024 shows a view of the standard-gage yard of Horgos railway port in Horgos, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Chen Shuo) URUMQI, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Alashankou and Horgos, two major railway hubs in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, had recorded a combined total of more than 10,000 China-Europe (Central Asia) freight train trips this year as of Monday, according to China Railway Urumqi Group Co., Ltd. This means that since the beginning of 2025, China-Europe freight trains passing through Xinjiang's two major ports had accounted for over half of China's total -- strongly safeguarding the stability and smooth operation of the global supply chain, the group said. Alashankou, also known as Alataw Pass, now hosts 124 China-Europe freight train routes, reaching 21 countries, including Germany and Poland. Meanwhile, Horgos railway port operates 89 routes that serve 18 countries and 46 cities and regions abroad. As of Monday, Alashankou's cargo throughput this year had reached more than 9.77 million tonnes -- up 3.7 percent year on year. Horgos had handled 7.96 million tonnes, a rise of 20.3 percent compared with the same period of 2024, according to the group. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) On the next episode of My Big Fat Fabulous Life, Whitney and her friends travel to Massachusetts. My Big Fat Fabulous Life, season 13, episode five, airs at 9 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, on TLC. LIVE STREAM: Fans can watch TLC without cable on : Fans can watch TLC without cable on Philo, which has a seven-day free trial; DirecTV, which offers a five-day free trial; and SlingTV. The episode is called Round and Round the Cauldron Go. The synopsis is, On a magical girls trip to Boston and Salem, Whitney and her friends trade Whitneys baby blues for ballet, ghosts and a seance while meeting up with new witchy friends. And Whitney looks for a sign of what to do with her life. In season 13, TLC said, ... Whitney Thore is putting herself first and making bold moves toward the life she wants. With her signature humor and heart, she reignites her passion for dance, explores the possibility of a fresh start in Salem, Massachusetts, and takes meaningful steps toward becoming a mother on her own through artificial insemination. While continuing her search for love, Whitney embraces change and new beginnings, proving that lifes most fabulous moments come from living unapologetically. What is Philo? Philo is a streaming service that offers more than 70 live channels and more than 70,000 titles on demand for $28 a month. Philo has a SEVEN-DAY FREE TRIAL. Channels include AMC, AMC+, A&E, MTV, BET, Discovery, VH1, Food Network, History, Nickelodeon, OWN, TLC, Lifetime, Hallmark, Paramount and TV One. Add-on packages include EPIX, STARZ and Movies and More. Philo offers an unlimited 1-year DRV. What is DirecTV? DirecTV provides access to more than 100 channels, hundreds of on-demand titles, the ability to stream through three devices at once, and unlimited Cloud DVR storage. Channels include ABC, HGTV, Hallmark, Bravo, BET, Discovery, Food Network, AMC, Animal Planet, CMT, Comedy Central, FX, ID, Disney, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon and PBS Kids. Subscription package prices start at $86.99 a month. The streaming service offers a FIVE-DAY FREE TRIAL. What is Sling TV? Sling streaming service is $45.99 a month for the Orange (35 channels) or Blue (43 channels) Levels. Orange plus Blue is $60.99 a month. Premium subscribers also can get a month of Showtime, STARZ and EPIX for free. Channels include CMT, Bravo, BET, Comedy Central, A&E, AMC, Animal Planet, Discovery+, Hallmark, History, National Geographic, Lifetime, TLC and USA. An updated heat advisory was issued by the National Weather Service on Wednesday at 12:31 a.m. in effect until 8 p.m. for Northern Wayne and Southern Wayne as well as Bradford, Susquehanna, Wyoming, Lackawanna, Luzerne and Pike counties. The weather service says to expect, "Heat index values between to 95 to 102 in the valleys." "Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses," adds the weather service. Beating the heat: Heat safety guidelines from the weather service Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of fluids. Seek shelter: Stay in an air-conditioned room. Avoid sun exposure: Stay out of the sun, and make sure to check up on relatives and neighbors. Child and pet safety: Never leave young children and pets unattended in hot vehicles - car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes. Caution outdoors: If you work or spend time outside, be sure to take additional safety measures. Optimal timing: If possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening when the heat is less intense. Recognize heat-related issues: Know how to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Dress comfortably: Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Additional tips for outdoor workers: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas for outdoor workers. If someone succumbs to the heat, promptly relocate them to a cool, shaded location. In emergency situations, dial 911 for immediate assistance. These NWS heat safety recommendations are vital for your well-being during periods of high temperatures. Stay informed and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others from the heat's potentially dangerous effects. Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service. First Rings Awarded as 1M GTD Main Event Draws Near at WSOPC Tallinn Eliot Thomas Content Executive Copy link Simon Hesserud Persson and Andria Gogelidze became the first two ring winners of the 2025 WSOPC Tallinn on a busy Monday at the sun-soaked Olympic Casino in the heart of the Estonian capital. Hesserud Persson topped a bumper Mini Main Event field, while Gogelidze showed his prowess in both formats to take down the PLO4/PLO5 event, defeating local player Taago Tamm after a rapid-fire heads up clash. The action shows no signs of slowing down, with Tuesday bringing the first of three starting flights in the highly anticipated 1 million guaranteed Main Event, the conclusion of the 350 NLH Queens ring event, and two more ring events commencing as the WSOPC festival kicks into top gear in Tallinn. Persson is First Ring Winner After Besting Bumper Mini Main Field Sweden's Simon Hesserud Persson entered the final day of the Mini Main Event third in chips but left with the title, 45,700, and the honor of being the first ring winner at the 2025 WSOPC Tallinn. The final hand, captured by Poker.pros Christoffer Karlen, saw Lithuanias Vytautas Riskevicius shove with pocket deuces 22. Hesserud Persson looked down at AK and made the call without hesitation. There was little sweat for the Swede as the flop came A10A, leaving Riskevicius all but drawing dead. The 10 on the turn sealed it with a full house, confirming Hesserud Persson as the first ring winner of the week in Tallinn. The Mini Main drew a strong 954-player field and saw Hesserud Persson notch the biggest live score of his career, surpassing his previous bests from events closer to home in Stockholm. Ring Event #1: 350 Mini Main Event Final Table Results Place Player Country Payout 1 Simon Hesserud Persson Sweden 45,700 (Plus $5,000 Ticket to Paradise) 2 Vytautas Riskevicius Lithuania 30,400 3 Nicolai Austad Norway 21,220 4 Corne Scheel Netherlands 15,140 5 Ville Keranen Finland 10,940 6 Krzysztof Chmielowski Poland 8,040 7 Tobias Napel Norway 5,940 8 Oleksandr Shokur Ukraine 4,540 9 Jevgenijs Sapronenko Latvia 3,493 Gogelidze Proves to be the PLO Master Georgia's Andria Gogelidze would prove himself to be Monday's PLO master after taking down the 555 PLO4/PLO5 for a maiden WSOP Circuit ring, the 27,100 prize, and the 5,000 Ticket to Paradise awarded to all ring winners in Tallinn this week. Estonia's Taago Tamm would run Gogelidze close, but was unable to complete the job on home soil after a short but entertaining heads-up battle at the Olympic Casino. The 268-runner field would combine to create an impressive 127,300 prizepool. You can check out the hand that would confirm Gogelidze as the second ring winner of the week below: Ring Event #2: 555 PLO4/PLO5 Final Table Results Place Player Country Payout 1 Andria Gogelidze Georgia 27,100 2 Taago Tamm Estonia 18,000 3 Arturas Zukovas Lithuania 12,100 4 Sami Saamanen Finland 8,900 5 Christoffer Jensen Denmark 6,100 6 Sami Pulliainen Finland 4,500 7 Kasper Mellanen Finland 3,525 Super Tuesday Ahead as 1m GTD Main Event Gets Underway After a phenomenal Monday of action, Tuesday is keeping the pace here in Tallinn, with four ring events on the schedule. That includes the first starting flight of the 1,500 Main Event. The 1M GTD Main Event is the showpiece of the series and is expected to draw a strong field as players converge on Tallinn for the headline act of Northern Europes premier poker festival. Also taking center stage today is the 350 NLH Queens event, which will play down to a winner and crown the third ring champion of the week. Norways Drea Karlsen leads the final day field with more than 400K in chips and will be the one to chase as she looks to claim the title. Coverage of the final table kicks off at 16:30 (EEST) on the OlyBet YouTube channel, which you can also watch below. Elsewhere, Day 2 of the popular 555 NLH is getting back underway, while Georgias Andria Gogelidze will be chasing his second ring of the week in as he returns among what is expected to be the popular Ring Event #6: 1,100 PLO4/5. Whether you're playing or following the coverage from afar, it's shaping up to be another fantastic day of action in Tallinn. Full coverage of the 350 NLH Queens is available on Olybet's YouTube channel (16:30 EEST): Full Streaming Schedule WSOPC Tallinn 2025 WSOPC Tallinn Schedule (EEST) - Tuesday 29th July Time Event 12:00 p.m. Ring Event #3: 555 NLH Day 2 3:00 p.m. Ring Event #5: 1,500 Main Event Day 1a 3:00 p.m. 200 NLH Turbo Bounty 4:00 p.m. Ring Event #4: 350 NLH Queens Day 2 (Final Day) 4:00 p.m. Women Only Freebuy Satellite (Three 200 NLH Queens Tickets) 4:00 p.m. Ring Event #6: 1,100 PLO4/5 Day 1 6:00 p.m. 200 NLH WSOP Circuit Tallinn Special 8:00 p.m. 350 PLO5 9:00 p.m. 150 Satellite to Ring Event #7: 5,000 NLH (Three Seats Guaranteed) Images courtesy of Elena Kask Share this article Life Outside Poker: Abby Merk Left Corporate Job to Become One of Poker's Top Creators Connor Richards Senior Editor U.S. Copy link Life Outside Poker is a podcast for PokerNews hosted by Connor Richards that seeks to pull back the curtain on poker players and allow viewers and listeners to get to know them on a personal level. In the 32nd episode, Connor talks with Global Poker Award-winning content creator Abby Merk about growing up in Chicago, studying philosophy at Wake Forest University, leaving her corporate job to become one of poker's top creators, playing her first World Series of Poker in 2021, making a goal to post daily content and being nominated for two Global Poker Awards. Merk also talks about battling with high-stakes pro Stephen Chidwick in the WSOP Main Event and being at the final table for a 2023 controversy over a man winning a ladies poker tournament in Florida. This interview was filmed at the 2025 WSOP at Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas. The Life Outside Poker podcast is available on major streaming platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, SoundCloud and iHeartRadio. You can also watch the interview with Abby Merk by heading to the PokerNews YouTube channel. Be sure to follow Abby Merk and Connor Richards on X. Learn More About Life Outside Poker! TIME TOPIC 0:00 Intro 0:18 WSOP Tag Team 3:12 Growing up in Chicago & getting into poker 7:44 Studying philosophy at Wake Forest University 8:00 Working at an options trading firm 11:25 First WSOP in 2021 13:55 Content creation 15:09 Posting daily 19:48 Women in poker 21:49 Florida man wins ladies tournament controversy 25:34 Playing the Main Event 27:10 Battling Stephen Chidwick 29:20 Winning a Global Poker Award 33:16 Barcelona/Travel 38:48 Book recommendation 39:36 Advice for younger self 40:14 Favorite life lesson from poker Share this article Cat-themed boats offer playful rafting experience to visitors to Guilin, S China's Guangxi People's Daily Online) 10:31, July 29, 2025 Photo shows Miaomiao wharf, a riverside dock named after a nearby mountain that resembles a crouching kitten, in Yangshuo county, Guilin city, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Liang Zhanghui) "Boji boats," a new kind of bamboo winnowing tray-shaped boats with cat motifs, are winning the hearts of tourists in Yangshuo county, Guilin city, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. These vividly painted, cat-themed boats are making waves at Miaomiao wharf, a riverside dock named after a nearby mountain that resembles a crouching kitten. Gliding through the calm, crystal-clear waters of the local riverway in Yangshuo, the bamboo-woven boats offer a charming way to enjoy the area's natural scenery. Dressed in cat-themed outfits, boatmen expertly paddle the lightweight vessels, creating a serene and picturesque experience for passengers, who can reach out to feel the cool river water. But the fun doesn't stop with a gentle ride. For thrill-seekers, the experience can shift from tranquil to exhilarating with a spinning ride. Boatmen dressed in cat-themed outfits paddle "Boji boats," a new kind of bamboo winnowing tray-shaped boats with cat motifs, on a river in Yangshuo county, Guilin city, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Liang Zhanghui) By rhythmically rocking the boats and paddling in a specific motion, the boatmen make the skiffs whirl rapidly on the water, sending up playful splashes and making everything around seem like it's spinninga dynamic way to enjoy the natural beauty of Guilin. This innovative offering adds to Guilin's already diverse lineup of river adventures. Offering a wide range of tourist experiences, from the poetic, slow-paced bamboo rafting on the Yulong River to adrenaline-fueled kayaking on the Longjing River and the "easy rafting experience for the faint-hearted" at Mao'er Mountain, Guilin has long been a hub for water-based tourism. The addition of river drifting in "Boji boats" further broadens the appeal, offering something new for tourists of all ages and interests. Originating in Southeast Asia, the bamboo winnowing tray-shaped boats are traditionally handwoven from bamboo strips and coated with waterproof paint. Their natural look, light weight, and maneuverability make them ideal for navigating narrow streams and shallow areas inaccessible to conventional boats. By virtue of their unique design and function, these boats have transformed into a trendy tourist experience enjoying great popularity in Southeast Asia. Aside from the colorful "Maomao boats," bright willow leaf-shaped boats are also in the spotlight at Miaomiao wharf. Photo shows boatmen and tourists rowing colorful willow leaf-shaped boats on a river in Yangshuo county, Guilin city, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (Photo/Fang Yu) According to Zhu Zhigang, general manager of a company behind the tourism services at Miaomiao wharf, the site currently operates 20 "Boji boats" and 18 "willow leaf boats." "We offer both relaxing scenic rides and thrilling spinning experiences. On the 'willow leaf boats,' tourists can even join in on water fights for extra fun," Zhu said. (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) Teri Errico Griffis is the senior business reporter and assistant editor at The Post and Courier, focusing on retail and real estate. An award-winning journalist, she previously worked as a Southeast commerce reporter for the Journal of Commerce and a reporter for the Charleston Regional Business Journal where she covered all facets of business in the Charleston region. Raised in Connecticut and New York, she has called South Carolina home since 2012. Business and Tourism Reporter Megan Fernandes is a Business and Tourism Reporter for the Post and Courier. She is an award-winning reporter, who has worked in the newspaper industry from coast-to-coast. N China's Tianjin upgrades nightscape lighting for upcoming SCO Summit People's Daily Online) 15:33, July 29, 2025 The landmark Jiefang Bridge and skyscrapers add radiance and beauty to each other along the Haihe River in north China's Tianjin Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Cui Xinyao) In preparation for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit scheduled to take place in north China's Tianjin Municipality this autumn, Tianjin has given its iconic Haihe River area a radiant nighttime makeover. Focusing on the visual appeal of the core stretch of Tianjin's "mother river," the city has enhanced its nightscape lighting to create a captivating urban atmosphere to welcome international gusts. The city-wide lighting upgrades cover 216 buildings, 13 bridges, 8.2 kilometers of riverbank, and seven piers. Using smart control technologies, the city has made sure its nightscape lighting system enables dynamic changes in color and brightness, enriching the riverside view with greater depth and vibrancy. The result is a spectacular "reception area" that showcases Tianjin's hospitality and modern elegance after dark. Tourists stroll across the landmark Jiefang Bridge in north China's Tianjin Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Cui Xinyao) Photo shows a night view of the Tianjin Century Clock, a large, iconic, all-metal clock sculpture located on the north bank of the Haihe River in north China's Tianjin Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Cui Xinyao) Sightseeing boats pass by Jinwan Square in north China's Tianjin Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Cui Xinyao) Tourists enjoy the night view of the Haihe River in north China's Tianjin Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Cui Xinyao) Visitors enjoy a riverside walk along the Haihe River in north China's Tianjin Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Cui Xinyao) The "Tianjin Eye" ferris wheel in north China's Tianjin Municipality lights up the night. (People's Daily Online/Cui Xinyao) (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) Nicole Ziege is a Reporter for The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times. She covers government and courts in Myrtle Beach and beyond. She previously covered news in Appalachia and received her journalism degree from Western Kentucky University. Quick Response and Public Safety Reporter Kailey Cota is a breaking news and public safety reporter for the Post & Courier's Charleston location. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina. She previously wrote for The State, The Current and The Daily Gamecock, and was named South Carolinas collegiate journalist of the year. Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations. Reporter Max White is a reporter for The Post and Courier Spartanburg primarily covering local government and business. He is a South Carolina native of Charleston and graduated from the University of South Carolina in December 2023. Was the recent crisis in Georgia a surprise to you, or did you expect such developments sooner or later? How do you assess the reacti... PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 18:27:31 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 417 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / All Star Recruiting Locums, LLC d/b/a All Star Healthcare Solutions ("All Star") recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to All Star.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On February 25, 2025, All Star Recruiting Locums, LLC became aware of a security incident involving unauthorized activity within its internal systems. Upon detection, All Star secured its systems and launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cybersecurity experts to assess the nature and scope of the breach. The investigation determined that an unauthorized third party gained access to data stored on its network. The impacted data may include full names, contact information, and account informationOn July 15, 2025, All Star filed a breach notice with the Maine Attorney General and began sending out notice letters to affected individuals. Compensation may be available for those individuals who receive notice that their sensitive personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from All Star Recruiting Locums, LLC d/b/a All Star Healthcare Solutions, you are likely to be affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. Our firm works on a 100% contingency fee basis - you pay nothing unless we win your case! Visit our website to learn more.Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 13:35:05 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 296 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Levi & Korsinsky notifies investors that it has commenced an investigation of Otis Worldwide Corporation ("Otis Worldwide Corporation") (NYSE:OTIS) concerning possible violations of federal securities laws.On July 23, 2025, Otis reported its second quarter fiscal 2025 earnings, unveiling net sales for the quarter of $3.6 billion that fell below analysts' expectations for $3.71 billion. Management noted that new-equipment sales declined 10%, worse than the market feared, in the quarter, triggering the company to reduce their annual guidance from $14.6 - $14.8 billion down to $14.5 - $14.6 billion in the second quarter. While the Company largely blamed the setback on challenges in China, in which new equipment sales fell 20% in the quarter, declines were also seen in the Americas and Asia Pacific.Following this news, Otis' stock price fell by $12.79 per share to open at $88.20 per share. To obtain additional information, go to:or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. either via email at jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com or by telephone at (212)363-7500.WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY: Over the past 20 years, Levi & Korsinsky LLP has established itself as a nationally-recognized securities litigation firm that has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. The firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212)363-7500 Fax: (212)363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 15:04:34 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 569 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 BERWYN, PA / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Chilean Cobalt Corp. (OTCQB:COBA) ("Chilean Cobalt" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Ash Lazenby to its Board of Directors. Ash is an experienced critical minerals trader, battery supply chain investor, and strategic advisor.This Board appointment further strengthens Chilean Cobalt's leadership team as the Company advances its strategic focus on becoming a key player in the battery and specialty alloys supply chain in the Americas. Ash's extensive commercial experience, deep industry relationships, and track record of executing high-impact transactions across the cobalt and broader critical minerals markets position him to provide strategic insights and connections as the Company progresses its project development goals at La Cobaltera and evaluates broader growth opportunities.For the past eight years Ash was at Glencore, initially in Switzerland across finance and global cobalt trading functions, and then in New York as a senior critical minerals trader running the North American cobalt business and expanding the lithium portfolio. Ash's role spanned spot trading, long term structured contracts, and strategic investments into key battery supply chain players. Ash originated, executed, and maintained various key Glencore trading partnerships including Tesla and General Motors.Ash was previously a natural resources sector sell side analyst, covering small caps through to the major diversified miners. Prior to this he was an investment banker, raising capital and executing M&A for resources companies.Ash holds a Master of Physics from Oxford University.About Chilean Cobalt Corp.Chilean Cobalt Corp. is a US-based and US-listed critical minerals exploration and development company focused on the La Cobaltera cobalt-copper project in northern Chile, one of the world's few primary cobalt districts. Chilean Cobalt is committed to creating ecological and social value for all stakeholders; economic value for Chile and the Chilean communities in which it operates; and financial value for its shareholders.Safe Harbor StatementThis news release may contain statements that involve expectations, plans or intentions (such as those relating to future business or financial results) and other factors discussed from time to time in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. These statements are forward-looking and are subject to risks and uncertainties, so actual results may vary materially. You can identify these forward-looking statements by words such as "may," "should," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "intend," "plan" and other similar expressions. Examples of forward-looking statements, include, among others, statements the Company makes regarding its ability to establish "Proven" or "Probable" Reserves, as defined by the SEC under Industry Guide 7, through the completion of a Definitive Feasibility Study for the minerals that the Company seeks to produce and the inherent risks of mining, exploration, development, and processing operations that may negatively impact the business. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors not within the control of the Company. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The Company disclaims any obligation subsequently to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.CONTACTS:Chilean Cobalt Corp.Duncan T. BlountChairman & CEO Duncan.Blount@chileancobaltcorp.com SOURCE: Chilean Cobalt Corp. PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 23:35:48 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 871 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 THUNDER BAY, ON / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Clean Air Metals Inc. ("Clean Air Metals" or the "Company") (TSXV:AIR)(FRA:CKU)(OTCQB:CLRMF) announces the results of the Company's annual general meeting of shareholders, which was held earlier today.At the meeting, James Gallagher, Dean Chambers, David Peck, and Mike Garbutt were re-elected as directors of the Company, and Manning Elliott LLP was re-appointed as Auditor for the Company for the ensuing year.Prior to the meeting, the board of directors extended the proxy deposit deadline for the meeting to 9 a.m. Eastern Time on July 29, 2025. The proxy deposit deadline was extended to allow shareholders who had not yet voted an opportunity to complete and submit their proxy for the meeting.The Company also announces that it has granted an aggregate of 2,200,000 incentive stock options to certain directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company, subject to regulatory approval. The stock options are exercisable at $0.05 for a period of 5 years from the grant date and subject to vesting terms.About Clean Air MetalsClean Air Metals is a development and exploration company advancing its flagship, 100% owned Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals ("TBN") project, 40 km northeast of Thunder Bay, Ontario. The TBN project, accessible by road and next to established infrastructure, hosts two (2) deposits - the Current and Escape deposits, only 2.5 km apart. Together, the deposits host a 13.8 Mt indicated mineral resource containing 2.4M Pt eq. oz (Technical Report on the Thunder Bay North Project, Ontario Canada, NI43-101, SLR Consulting Canada Ltd, June 19, 2023) with significant potential for expansion down-plunge.One of the rare primary platinum resources outside of South Africa, the TBN project is in a stable and mining-friendly jurisdiction and benefits from longstanding relationships with local First Nations. With its proven technical team, Clean Air Metals is committed to growing the resources at the TBN project and creating long-term value for shareholders.Social EngagementClean Air Metals Inc. acknowledges that the Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project is located within the area encompassed by the Robinson-Superior Treaty of 1850 and includes the territories of the Fort William First Nation, Red Rock Indian Band, Biinjitiwabik Zaaging Anishinabek and Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek. Clean Air Metals also acknowledges the contributions of the Metis Nation of Ontario, Region 2 and the Red Sky Metis Independent Nation to the rich history of our area.The Company appreciates the opportunity to work in these territories and remains committed to the recognition and respect of those who have lived, travelled, and gathered on the lands since time immemorial. Clean Air Metals is committed to stewarding Indigenous heritage and remains committed to building, fostering and encouraging a respectful relationship with First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples based upon principles of mutual trust, respect, reciprocity and collaboration in the spirit of reconciliation.ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS"Mike Garbutt"Mike Garbutt, CEO of Clean Air Metals Inc.Connect with us on X/ Facebook/ Instagram.Visit www.cleanairmetals.ca for more information or contact:Mia Boiridy Director of Communications and Investor Relations250-575-3305 mboiridy@ cleanairmetals.ca Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.Cautionary NoteThe information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or, future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.SOURCE: Clean Air Metals, Inc. PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 15:05:31 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1034 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATESVANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Faraday Copper Corp. ("Faraday" or the "Company") (TSX:FDY)(OTCQX:CPPKF) is pleased to announce that it has completed its previously announced brokered bought deal financing, including the exercise in full of the Underwriters' (as defined below) over-allotment option, for a total of 26,139,500 common shares ("Common Shares") sold at a price of C$1.10 per Common Share for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of C$28,753,450 (the "Brokered Offering"), concurrently with a non-brokered private placement of 18,200,000 Common Shares sold at a price of C$1.10 per Common Share for additional gross proceeds to the Company of C$20,020,000 (the "Non-Brokered Offering"). Collectively, 44,339,500 Common Shares were sold at a price of C$1.10 per Common Share for total gross process of $48,773,450 (collectively, the "Offerings").The Brokered Offering was underwritten by lead underwriter and sole bookrunner Ventum Financial Corp., on its own behalf and on behalf of BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc., Canaccord Genuity Corp., Haywood Securities Inc. and TD Securities Inc. (collectively, the "Underwriters").The Brokered Offering was made in accordance with the listed issuer financing exemption' in Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions, as amended by Coordinated Blanket Order 45-935 - Exemptions from Certain Conditions of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (together, the "Listed Issuer Financing Exemption"), to purchasers in any province or territory of Canada, except Quebec. Additionally, certain Common Shares were sold to Qualified Institutional Buyers in the United States in accordance with Rule 144A under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and purchasers in other qualifying jurisdictions outside of Canada as mutually agreed to by the Company and the Underwriters pursuant to the relevant prospectus or registration exemptions in accordance with applicable laws. The Common Shares issued and sold pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption will not be subject to a hold period' pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws. There is an offering document related to the Brokered Offering that can be accessed under the Company's issuer profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.faradaycopper.com (the "Offering Document"). The Offerings remain subject to final approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange.The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offerings to fund advancement of the Copper Creek Project, located in Arizona, U.S., and for working capital and general corporate purposes as set out in the Offering Document.The Common Shares offered in the Offerings have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.Related Party DisclosureTrusts settled by the late Adolf H. Lundin (the "Lundin Family Trusts") acquired an aggregate of 9,450,000 Common Shares pursuant to the Offering, which constitutes a "related party transaction" pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Shareholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") as a private entity controlled by the Lundin Family Trusts is currently the Company's largest shareholder. Lundin Family Trusts' participation is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 in reliance upon the exemptions contained in Section 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a), respectively, of MI 61-101. A material change report was not filed more than 21 days in advance of the closing as the launch of the Offering only occurred within a short period of time prior to the closing of the Offering, and the Company wished to close the Offering on an expedited basis for sound business reasons. Further information regarding the Offerings will be provided in a material change report to be filed by the Company.About Faraday CopperFaraday Copper is a Canadian exploration company focused on advancing its flagship copper project in Arizona, U.S. The Copper Creek project is one of the largest undeveloped copper projects in North America with significant district scale exploration potential. The Company is well-funded to deliver on its key milestones and benefits from a management team and board of directors with senior mining company experience and expertise. Faraday trades on the TSX under the symbol "FDY".For additional information please contact:Stacey Pavlova, CFAVice President, Investor Relations & CommunicationsFaraday Copper Corp.E-mail: info@ faradaycopper.com Website: www.faradaycopper.com To receive news releases by e-mail, please register using the Faraday website at www.faradaycopper.com Cautionary Note on Forward Looking StatementsSome of the statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking statements" and are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Faraday to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements concerning final approvals relating to the Offerings and the intended use of proceeds of the Offerings.Although Faraday believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way construed as guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include without limitation: market prices for metals; the conclusions of detailed feasibility and techn PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 04:20:14 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 492 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY AND NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESS Newswire / July 28, 2025 /Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have untilAugust 25, 2025to file lead plaintiff applications in securities class action lawsuits against Hims & Hers Health, Inc. ("Hims" or the "Company") (NYSE:HIMS), if they purchased the Company's securities between April 29, 2025 and June 23, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). These actions are pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of Hims and would like to discuss your legal rights and how the case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-hims/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court byAugust 25, 2025 .About the LawsuitsHims & Hers and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On June 23, 2025, Novo Nordisk announced that it was terminating its partnership with Hims, disclosing that the Company had "failed to adhere to the law which prohibits mass sales of compounded drugs under the false guise of 'personalization' and are disseminating deceptive marketing that put patient safety at risk," and that "the semaglutide' active pharmaceutical ingredients that are in the knock-off drugs sold by telehealth entities and compounding pharmacies" may contain "unsafe and illicit foreign ingredients." On this news, the price of Hims' shares fell $22.24, or 34.6%, to close at $41.98 per share on June 23, 2025, on unusually heavy trading volume.The first-filed case is Sookdeo v. Hims & Hers Health, Inc., No. 25-cv-05315. A subsequent case, Yaghsizian v. Hims & Hers Health, Inc., No. 25-cv-05321, expanded the class period.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. This past year, KSF was ranked by SCAS among the top 10 firms nationally based upon total settlement value. KSF serves a variety of clients, including public and private institutional investors, and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana, Chicago, New Jersey, and a representative office in Luxembourg.TOP 10 Plaintiff Law Firms - According to ISS Securities Class Action ServicesTo learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com CONTACT Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partner lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com 1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163CONNECT WITH US: Facebook || Instagram || YouTube || TikTok || LinkedInSOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 21:00:11 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 601 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Leading securities law firmBleichmar Fonti & Auld LLPannounces that a lawsuit has been filed against Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:HIMS) and certain of the Company's senior executives for potential violations of the federal securities laws.If you invested in Hims & Hers, you are encouraged to obtain additional information by visiting: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/hims-hers-health-inc-class-action Investors have until August 25, 2025, to ask the Court to be appointed to lead the case. The complaint asserts claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on behalf of investors who purchased Hims & Hers securities. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California and is captioned Sookdeo v. Hims & Hers Health, Inc., et al., No. 25-cv-05315. A subsequent complaint alleging substantially similar claims was also filed and is captioned Yaghsizian v. Hims & Hers Health, Inc., et al., No. 25-cv-05321.Why was Hims & Hers Sued for Securities Fraud?Hims & Hers operates a telehealth platform that provides consumers with access to online consultations with licensed healthcare professionals, prescription medications, and a range of wellness products. On April 29, 2025, Hims & Hers and Novo Nordisk announced a "long-term collaboration" starting with the immediate sale of Novo Nordisk's popular weight loss drug Wegovy on the Hims & Hers platform. The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide.As alleged, Hims & Hers touted and misrepresented to investors the nature of its partnership with Novo Nordisk, including asserting that under the terms of the agreement Hims & Hers could offer both Wegovy and compounded semaglutide to its customers. Hims & Hers also allegedly represented to investors that its sale of compounded semaglutide complied with FDA regulations.The Stock Declines as the Truth is RevealedOn June 23, 2025, Novo Nordisk announced that it was terminating the partnership, "based on Hims & Hers deceptive promotion and selling of illegitimate, knockoff versions of Wegovy that put patient safety at risk" and alleged that Hims & Hers "failed to adhere to the law which prohibits mass sales of compounded drugs." On this news, the price of Hims & Hers stock fell $22.24 per share, or more than 34%, from $64.22 per share on June 20, 2025 to $41.98 per share on June 23, 2025.Click here for more information: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/hims-hers-health-inc-class-action What Can You Do?If you invested in Hims & Hers you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm.All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses.Submit your information by visiting:Or contact:Ross Shikowitz ross@ bfalaw.com 212.789.3619Why Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP?BFA is a leading international law firm representing plaintiffs in securities class actions and shareholder litigation. It has been named a top plaintiff law firm by Chambers USA, The Legal 500, and ISS SCAS, and its attorneys have been named "Elite Trial Lawyers" by the National Law Journal, among the top "500 Leading Plaintiff Financial Lawyers" by Lawdragon, "Titans of the Plaintiffs' Bar" by Law360 and "SuperLawyers" by Thomson Reuters. Among its recent notable successes, BFA recovered over $900 million in value from Tesla, Inc.'s Board of Directors, as well as $420 million from Teva Pharmaceutical Ind. Ltd.For more information about BFA and its attorneys, please visit https://www.bfalaw.com Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.SOURCE: Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP Washington and Brussels have reached a trade agreement with a clear headline: the EU caves in and accepts a 15% tariff on its exports to the U.S., the highest rate applied in decades. The European Commission has yielded after months of negotiations to avoid a much bigger punishment, given the repeated pressure and ultimatums from the White House in recent months. The tariff rate was surely the most anticipated announcement and constitutes the central core of the pact. However, there are other significant clauses. On the one hand, an exemption has been established for certain goods; on the other, the EU has committed to purchasing $750 billion worth of energy products, such as oil and gas, from the United States. Furthermore, and although it is not expected to be written into the agreement, the EU agrees to increase its purchases of military equipment from the U.S. to meet the new objectives set by NATO, and to boost its companies investments in the United States. Below are some questions and answers about the agreement. Does the 15% tariff affect all exports? No, although the volume of affected products will be very large: the 15% tariff will affect around 70% of EU exports to the United States. U.S. exports to Europe, meanwhile, will not be affected by higher tariffs. On the contrary, it has been agreed that the EU will lower tariffs on certain goods. Pending a detailed list, this category would include certain agricultural and fishery products, such as nuts and raw and processed fish, automobiles, machinery, some chemical products and fertilizers, cheese and other dairy products, and pet food. Will some products be subject to a higher tariff? The 15% tariff will generally apply to all European exports to the U.S. However, some products will be hit harder. This is the case for steel and aluminum and their derivatives. These items were already subject to a 50% tariff before negotiations between the two blocs began in mid-April, just days after U.S. President Donald Trump kicked off his trade war with the announcement of a universal tariff. In principle, this rate will remain in place, although EU sources clarify that talks are still ongoing. Automobiles, on the other hand, have managed to avoid the additional surcharge they had been subject to. The automobile and components industry, a strategic sector for the EUs major economy, Germany, was previously burdened with a tariff of 27.5%. Under the new agreement, the general tariff of 15% will apply. Are there any exempt goods? The 30% of European exports not subject to tariffs include some products the U.S. needs to import to meet its domestic demand, and others considered strategic, to which zero tariffs will technically apply. The EU has not yet published an exhaustive list, and sources assure that negotiations on certain items are still ongoing. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Sunday that this package will include all aircraft and their components, certain chemical products, semiconductors, some agricultural products, natural resources, and critical raw materials. Pharmaceutical products represent a separate area of concern, one that remains uncertain. Initially, they will not be included in the initial list of goods subject to the 15% tariff, although the U.S. does not rule out the possibility of them being subject to the tariff in the future. What has the EU pledged to buy from the US? A key part of the agreement is Brussels commitment to import billions of dollars worth of energy products from the U.S. Under the deal, the EU will purchase liquefied natural gas, oil, and nuclear technology (such as reactors) worth $750 billion (about 640 billion) during the remainder of Trumps term, equivalent to about $250 billion a year. There is also an understanding on arms purchases. Strictly speaking, the trade agreement does not oblige the EU to purchase weapons from the United States, but Brussels recognizes that, following the NATO summit held at the end of June, which raised the bar for defense spending to 5% of GDP, member states allocations will have to be accelerated, and this move will inevitably benefit Washington, whose arms companies are giants in the sector. Washington and Brussels have also agreed that European companies will invest 600 billion in the U.S. economy. This latest figure is the result of contacts and discussions the European executive has held with companies in EU member states regarding their investment intentions, according to EU sources, who note that the EU does not have the legal capacity to guarantee these amounts. When will the rates come into effect? Next Friday, August 1, the EU and the U.S. will issue a joint statement outlining the main elements of the agreement. Brussels expects Washington to give the green light that same Friday to an executive order implementing the 15% tariff. Is Brussels considering retaliation? No. Once the joint declaration is issued, Brussels will have to seek the support of the member states to give the pact legally binding force. The agreement is not expected to be rejected. If this were to happen, the outlook would change, and the EU would be free to retaliate. The U.S. could also increase its own penalties. PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 16:32:06 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 494 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Deals for insurance firms in United States and Canada dip 8% in first half, OPTIS Partners reportsMINNEAPOLIS, MN / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / There were 319 announced insurance agency mergers and acquisitions in the first half of 2025, down 8% from 345 in the same period in 2024, according to OPTIS Partners' M&A database. The pace picked up in the second quarter, with 168 deals, up 11% from a year ago.American sellers accounted for 305 deals, while Canadian brokers accounted for 14 transactions."The M&A market is likely at a new normal. We expect about 750 to 800 deals annually going forward," said Steve Germundson, a partner at OPTIS Partners, an investment banking and financial consulting firm specializing in the insurance industry. "Larger firms will continue to look for bigger transactions to fuel needed growth, and the number of buyers will shrink as some of yesterday's active buyers become tomorrow's sellers." BroadStreet Leads BuyersAmong buyers, BroadStreet Partners recorded the most transactions in the first half of 2025 with 39. Hub and Inszone followed with 27 and 18 deals, respectively, while Keystone Agency Partners and World Insurance Associates each announced 17 purchases.The top 11 buyers (top 10 and ties) accounted for 187 deals or 59% of the total. All were private equity-backed firms except Leavitt Group (private), Arthur J. Gallagher (publicly traded), and Heffernan Insurance Brokers (privately held)Private-equity firms dominate buyersOPTIS Partners tracks buyers by four groups: private equity-backed/hybrid brokers, privately held brokers, publicly held brokers, and all others.The private equity-backed/hybrid group of buyers (32 firms) continued to dominate deal activity in the first half, accounting for 73% of all transactions."Private-equity firms continue to invest," said OPTIS managing partner Timothy J. Cunningham. "Since the start of the pandemic, they've done about 70% of the total number of deals in each quarter. They've got the money and are willing to spend it for the right acquisition." Privately held brokers completed 62 acquisitions in the first half of 2025 while publicly held brokers reported 19 deals.P&C agencies are primary sellersThe OPTIS report covers four types of sellers: property-and-casualty insurance agencies, agencies offering both P&C and employee benefits, employee benefits agencies, and all other sellers (life/financial services, consulting, and other businesses associated with insurance distribution).P&C sellers accounted for 209 transactions (65% of the total). Benefits agencies sales totaled 42 (13%), and there were 27 sales of P&C/benefits agencies (8%). All other sellers accounted for 43 sales (13 %).The full report can be read at https://optisins.com/wp/2025/07/h1-2025-ma-report About OPTIS PartnersFocused exclusively on the insurance-distribution marketplace, Minneapolis-based OPTIS Partners ( www.optisins.com) offers merger & acquisition representation for buyers and sellers, including due-diligence reviews. It provides appraisals of fair market value; financial-performance review, including trend analysis and internal controls; and ownership transition and perpetuation planning.Contact:Steve Germundson, OPTIS Partners, germundson@ optisins.com , 612-758-0598Tim Cunningham, OPTIS Partners, cunningham@ optisins.com , 312-543-5425Dan Menzer, OPTIS Partners, menzer@ optisins.com , 630-520-0490Henry Stimpson, Stimpson Communications, Henry@ StimpsonCommunications.com SOURCE: OPTIS Partners PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 18:15:14 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 382 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Moviynt recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to Moviynt.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?Recently, Moviynt became aware of a security incident on its internal employee email system. Upon detection, Moviynt launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cyber security experts to determine the nature and scope of the incident. The investigation determined that an unauthorized third party gained access to employee email accounts and files between February 27, 2025, and March 6, 2025. The impacted files may contain personal information of individuals, including names and Social Security numbers.On July 8, 2025, Moviynt began sending notice letters to impacted individuals and filed a notice with the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office. Compensation may be available for those individuals who received notice that their personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from Moviynt, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. Our firm works on a 100% contingency fee basis - you pay nothing unless we win your case! Visit our website to learn more. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 19:15:12 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 394 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America ("Allianz Life") recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to Allianz Life.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On July 16, 2025, Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America ("Allianz Life") detected unauthorized access to a third-party, cloud-based CRM system used by Allianz Life. The breach compromised the personal information of most of its 1.4 million customers, along with some financial professionals and employees.The impacted data may include names and other personal identifiers.An investigation with cybersecurity experts followed, and Allianz Life filed notice of the breach with the Maine Attorney General on July 25, 2025. Allianz Life will begin mailing notice letters on August 1, 2025, to impacted individuals. Compensation may be available for individuals who receive notice that their sensitive personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter or email from Allianz Life, you are likely to be affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. Our firm works on a 100% contingency fee basis - you pay nothing unless we win your case! Visit our website to learn more. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 11:00:33 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 650 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 DEA Counsel's Conduct: Is It Fraud on the Tribunal?DEA attorneyAarathi D. Haigsubmitted a formal legal response on July 25, 2025 to DEA Administrator Terry Cole, asserting that MMJ BioPharma Cultivation lacked a bona fide supply agreement (BFSA) - the critical requirement for Schedule I bulk manufacturing registration.But this is provably false. That misrepresentation - made knowingly and in writing to the DEA Administrator and under the guise of the law - raises serious civil and criminal red flags.WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / The Drug Enforcement Administration just perjured itself in the matter of MMJ BioPharma Cultivation. In a July 25 filing signed by attorney Aarathi D. Haig, the DEA outrageously claimed that MMJ "had no bona fide supply agreement (BFSA)" with a Schedule I registrant.That statement is not only false; it's demonstrably, documentably false.We have the signed, sealed BFSA between MMJ BioPharma and a DEA-registered Schedule I manufacturer. The agreement meticulously satisfies every clause of DEA's own regulatory requirement under 21 C.F.R. 1318.05(b)(3)(i).This wasn't a technicality. It was a coordinated lie meant to bury seven years of federally compliant work, destroy a Huntington's Disease treatment before it reaches patients, and protect DEA insiders who have weaponized bureaucracy against medical marijuana science.The Receipts DEA Pretends Don't ExistLet's be crystal clear: MMJ's supply agreement with a schedule 1 registrant contains every single requirement DEA demanded in its own rules:Schedule I registrant?Specific strains and cannabis delivery quantities? Detailed in Article I.Harvest notifications, packaging, DEA Form 222, and ownership transfer protocols? Articles II & III.Secure vault storage, anti-diversion controls, payment terms, IRB-reviewed clinical trial data, IND approval from FDA?Yet the DEA continues to write in federal filings, as though we're all too stupid to read the documents, that MMJ "failed" to provide a Bona Fide Supply Agreement.This is not a misunderstanding.This is deception and fraudulent misrepresentation at the highest level.Mulrooney's Kangaroo Court and Aarathi Haig's Legal FictionChief Administrative Law Judge John J. Mulrooney II, now conveniently retired, rubber-stamped this lie and refused to even admit the supply agreement into evidence. He helped orchestrate a procedural sham that made it impossible for MMJ to present the truth.And nowDEA Counsel Aarathi Haig doubles downwith a legal sleight of hand that should be called what it is: fraud on the tribunal.Haig knows that MMJ's agreement complies with DEA's rule: she just chose to ignore it and assert to the Administrator that it never existed.Who Will Hold DEA Accountable?This isn't just about MMJ BioPharma anymore.It's about whether facts still matter in federal law.It's about whether a rogue federal agency can retroactively invent rules, then pretend applicants didn't comply, and get away with it while patients with deadly diseases like Huntington's continue to suffer.This case exposes DEA's Diversion Control Division as a cartel of obstructionists who have abandoned science, betrayed public trust, and refused to follow the law.DEA Terrance Cole's First Test as AdministratorNew DEA Administrator Terrance Cole inherited a mess. But now he has a chance to do something Mulrooney and Haig never would: Tell the truth. Follow the law. And approve MMJ's long-blocked registration so clinical trials can finally begin.If Cole doesn't act, he won't just be complicit; he'll become the latest face of a federal agency that has turned cannabis research into a rigged game; a game where the rules change, the facts don't matter, and the fix is always in.This Is What Scientific Sabotage Looks LikeAt stake here is not just one registration; it's the future of FDA compliant, patient focused cannabis research in the United States.MMJ BioPharma Cultivation has done everything by the book. The DEA burned the book-and then accused MMJ of not reading it.MMJ is represented byattorney Megan Sheehan .CONTACT: Madison Hisey MHisey@ mmjih.com 203-231-8583SOURCE: MMJ International Holdings PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 06:10:14 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 828 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATESVANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Lobe Sciences Ltd. ("Lobe Sciences" or the "Company") (CSE:LOBE)(OTCQB:LOBEF)(FWB: LOBE.F) , a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapeutics for rare and underserved diseases, is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") of up to 8,535,625 common share of the Company (each, a "Share") at a price of $0.04 per Share for gross proceeds of up to $341,425 CAD.The net proceeds of the Offering will be used for general corporate purposes, including working capital and ongoing operational needs.All securities to be issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a statutory four-month and one day hold period.None of the securities sold under the Offering have been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and no such securities may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.About Lobe Sciences Ltd. Lobe Sciences Ltd. (CSE:LOBE)(OTCQB:LOBEF)(FWB: LOBE.F) is a growth-stage biopharmaceutical company developing advanced treatments for rare and neurologically underserved conditions. Through its wholly owned subsidiary, Altemia, Inc., and majority-owned Cynaptec Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Lobe is advancing a patented lipid-based delivery platform for the treatment of Sickle Cell Disease and a proprietary oral analog of psilocin-Conjugated Psilocin-targeted for Chronic Cluster Headache and related disorders. The Company's mission is to improve patient outcomes through innovation and precision-driven science.For further information, please contact: Dr. Fred D. Sancilio, CEOLobe Sciences Ltd. Investor and Media Info@ Lobesciences.com Phone: +1 (949) 505-5623Email: info@ lobesciences.com Website: www.lobesciences.com Neither the "CSE" Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" InformationThis news release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding future estimates, plans, objectives, timing, assumptions or expectations of future performance, including, without limitation: the expectation that the Company will receive all necessary approvals to complete the Offering; the expectation that the Company will complete the Offering on the terms disclosed; and the intended use of proceeds of the Offering are forward-looking statements and contain forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should" or "would" or occur.Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this press release, including, among other things, that: the Company will receive all necessary approvals to complete the Offering; that the Company will complete the Offering on the terms and timing anticipated; and that the proceeds from the Offering will be used as anticipated. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Important risks that may cause actual results to vary, include, without limitation, the risk that: the Company will not receive the necessary approvals to complete the Offering; that the Company will not complete the Offering on the terms disclosed, or at all; and that the Company will be unable to use the proceeds received from the Offering.Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.SOURCE: Lobe Sciences Ltd. PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 17:15:14 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 305 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Levi & Korsinsky notifies investors that it has commenced an investigation of Encompass Health Corporation ("Encompass Health Corporation") (NYSE:EHC) concerning possible violations of federal securities laws.On July 15, 2025, the New York Times published an article, entitled "Even Grave Errors at Rehab Hospitals Go Unpenalized and Undisclosed," discussing the state of the private rehabilitation hospital industry. In the article, the Times specifically identified Encompass as one of the for-profit rehab corporations that "have had rare but serious incident of patient harm and perform below average on two key safety measure tracked by Medicare." The article went on to note specific examples highlighting significant patient safety concerns, medication errors, and an overall lack of oversight at Encompass' hospitals.Following this news, Encompass' stock price fell by $12.39 per share to close at $ 107.28 per share. To obtain additional information, go to:or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. either via email at jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com or by telephone at (212)363-7500.WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY: Over the past 20 years, Levi & Korsinsky LLP has established itself as a nationally-recognized securities litigation firm that has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. The firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212)363-7500 Fax: (212)363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 14:02:45 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 950 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Expanded License Agreement Brings Ovation's Science-Based Topicals to Largest Medical Cannabis Market in the USAVANCOUVER, BC AND LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Ovation Science Inc. (CSE:OVAT)(OTC:OVATF) ("Ovation" or the "Company"), today announced an expanded license agreement with Planet 13 Holdings, Inc. (CSE:PLTH)(OTCQX:PLNH) ("Planet 13") to bring its patented Invisicare topical and transdermal cannabis products to the Florida market. The agreement will make Ovation's science-backed topical products available across Planet 13's extensive network of 33 Florida dispensary locations, building on the companies' on-going successful collaboration with Planet 13 in Nevada where Ovation's topicals have achieved top sales rankings statewide.Florida, a medical cannabis market with almost one million registered patients, is projected to exceed $2.5 billion in cannabis sales in 2025. According to Headset.io , Florida is the largest medical cannabis market in the US and has the highest sales of topicals in the country. Florida's unique regulations require dispensaries to exclusively sell their own manufactured products, eliminating traditional wholesale distribution channels. This makes Planet 13's significant and expanding retail footprint of 33 dispensaries particularly valuable for market entry. The broad appeal of Ovation's topical products satisfies the widespread consumer demand for solutions to assist with everything from everyday aches, stress relief, evening relaxation and bedtime wind-down routines to workout recovery."Planet 13's comprehensive Florida presence creates an ideal platform for our topical products," said Terry Howlett, Ovation's President. "Their success with our products in Nevada demonstrates the market demand for effective, science-based solutions. Our products will be sold exclusively under Planet 13's brand across all Florida locations, providing immediate market access for Ovation's proprietary formulations. We know customers in Florida will be excited to see proven, effective, science-based topicals that work for multiple conditions." He added, "Ovation will earn royalty income from Planet 13's sales now in both Nevada and Florida under this expanded license agreement, positively impacting our financial results and creating value for our shareholders." "Our experience with Ovation's topicals in Nevada has been excellent and we are excited to expand into Florida with these products. We will be launching our branded topical line shortly, expanding our brand presence and satisfying an unmet need for exceptional topicals in Florida," said Lee Fraser, Chief Administrative Officer of Planet 13. "This partnership with Ovation marks an important revenue generating opportunity, optimizes our Florida production facility, and enhances our gross margins." Proven Technology PlatformOvation's competitive advantage centers on its patented Invisicare skin delivery system, developed through over two decades of pharmaceutical research. Laboratory testing demonstrated dramatically superior bioavailability compared to leading competitors - with Ovation's formulations achieving 82% cannabinoid penetration versus less than 2% for competing transdermal products tested. This proves substantially more CBD, THC and other cannabinoids are effectively delivered to and through the skin using Ovation's Invisicare technology, ensuring consumers receive maximum therapeutic benefit.Growth TrajectoryThe Florida launch with Planet 13 represents Ovation's third active market, joining existing states: Nevada (Planet 13) and Pennsylvania (PA Options for Wellness). Additional 2025 expansions are planned with licensees in Missouri and Canada, and other potential states, positioning the Company for accelerated revenue growth across multiple regulated jurisdictions. Ovation continues to seek growth opportunities in other legal markets both in the USA and internationally.Statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.About Planet 13Planet 13 is a vertically integrated cannabis company, with award-winning cultivation, production and dispensary operations across its locations in California, Nevada, Illinois, and Florida. Home to the nation's largest dispensary, located just off The Strip in Las Vegas, Planet 13 continues to expand its footprint with the recent debut of its first consumption lounge in Las Vegas, DAZED!, the opening of its first Illinois dispensary in Waukegan, bringing cannabis experiences to the Chicago metro area. Planet 13 operates dispensaries across Florida, a key market in its expansive footprint. Planet 13's mission is to build a recognizable global brand known for world-class dispensary operations and innovative cannabis products. Licensed cannabis activity is legal in the states Planet 13 operates in but remains illegal under U.S. federal law. Planet 13's shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) under the symbol PLTH and are quoted on the OTCQX under the symbol PLNH. To learn more, visit Planet13.com About Ovation Science Inc.Ovation Science Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary; Ovation Science USA Inc., is a research and development company that develops topical and transdermal CBD/THC and other cannabinoid products which are out-licensed and also distributed under Ovation's own brands; ARLO CBD Beauty and InVibe MD ("wellness" line); all powered by its patented Invisicare skin delivery technology. Invisicare enhances the delivery of ingredients to and through the skin and is protected by patents and proprietary formulations which cannot be duplicated. With over 20 years of pharmaceutical drug delivery experience, Ovation's management and science team have created a unique pipeline of proprietary medical / wellness topical and transdermal products along with a line of anti-aging / beauty formulas. Ovation earns revenues from royalties on licensees' sales and the sale of Invisicare, along with revenue from its own product sales. Ovation has offices in Vancouver, Canada and Las Vegas, USA.Stock symbols: CSE:OVAT and OTC:OVATFWebsites: CORPORATE: www.ovationscience.com WELLNESS: www.invibemd.comBEAUTY:www.arlocbdbeauty.com Forward-Looking StatementsInformation set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forwar PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 18:32:30 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 361 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / PDI Health recently discovered that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal and protected health data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal and protected health information entrusted to PDI Health.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On May 14, 2025, PDI Health discovered a security breach involving its internal systems. An unauthorized party accessed and extracted sensitive data, compromising patient records. The impacted data may include names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, billing information, electronic medical records (EMRs), test results, and medical history.The ransomware group Everest claimed responsibility for the attack on the dark web. Compensation may be available for those individuals who receive notice that their sensitive personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from PDI Health, you are likely to be affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. Our firm works on a 100% contingency fee basis - you pay nothing unless we win your case! Visit our website to learn more.Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 15:03:07 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 485 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 The new partnership combines Third Bridge's world leading library of expert interviews with Portrait's AI-driven research tools, streamlining how institutional investors blend qualitative insight with quantitative analysis.NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Portrait Analytics , the leading personalized AI-powered investment research platform, today announced a strategic partnership withThird Bridge , a leading global expert network and investment research provider. Embedding Third Bridge's unparalleled library of high-quality expert interviews directly into the Portrait platform will create a one-stop research environment for institutional investors.This collaboration addresses a growing need in public market investing: combining state-of-the-art AI capabilities with powerful qualitative insights from trusted experts. Instead of switching between siloed tools or stitching together AI workflows manually, investors can now leverage AI to seamlessly surface real-time expert perspectives at the moment they're discovering, researching, and monitoring an investment thesis."Investors are excited by AI's potential to add leverage to the research process, but are struggling to integrate this technology with critical data sources," said David Plon, CEO and co-founder of Portrait Analytics. "Integrating Third Bridge's extensive library of expert insights and company intelligence into our leading AI platform is a major step towards helping our users fully unlock the value of this research for creative idea generation and thesis development." This partnership benefits institutional investors, particularly hedge funds and asset managers who rely on expert interviews as part of their research process. Third Bridge subscribers on the Portrait platform can now instantly leverage the collective insights from thousands of experts through Portrait's deep research workflows. For instance, an analyst researching GLP-1s can now leverage Portrait to analyze thousands of expert conversations about downstream impacts on medical devices, food companies, and insurers, uncovering non-obvious investment opportunities."Portrait's platform is the perfect environment to unlock even more value from our trusted library of expert insights," said Mike Grubert, Managing Director at Third Bridge, "This collaboration underscores our commitment to providing the world's decision makers with access to the high-quality insights they need, whenever and wherever they need them. Together, we're giving our mutual clients a faster, smarter way to conduct due diligence and develop differentiated insight into investment opportunities." ABOUT PORTRAIT ANALYTICS:Portrait Analytics is a personalized AI-powered investment research platform that supports critical public market workflows across idea generation, context-building, and thesis monitoring. Built by former buy-side analysts, Portrait is headquartered in New York with a presence across the U.S. and Europe. Learn more at https://www.portraitanalytics.ai ABOUT THIRD BRIDGE:Third Bridge is a global investment research business, providing investors and business leaders with access to the unique expert insights they need to accelerate and improve their decision-making. Founded in 2007, it has 1,500+ employees who serve the world's top private equity funds, hedge funds, mutual funds, and management consulting firms. Learn more at: www.thirdbridge.com MEDIA CONTACT: Lauren Gill, MAG PR at lauren@ mooringadvisorygroup.com SOURCE: Portrait Analytics PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 21:00:56 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 556 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Leading securities law firmBleichmar Fonti & Auld LLPannounces that a lawsuit has been filed against Reddit, Inc. (NYSE:RDDT) and certain of the Company's senior executives for potential violations of the federal securities laws.If you invested in Reddit, you are encouraged to obtain additional information by visiting: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/reddit-inc-securities-fraud-class-action Investors have until August 18, 2025, to ask the Court to be appointed to lead the case. The complaint asserts claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on behalf of investors who purchased Reddit securities. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California and is captioned Tamraz, Jr. v. Reddit, Inc., at al., No. 25-cv-05144.Why was Reddit Sued for Securities Fraud?Reddit owns and operates the eponymous social news aggregation, forum, and social media platform. Reddit receives a significant portion of its user traffic from individuals seeking answers to questions using Google Search. The complaint alleges that Reddit misrepresented and downplayed the impact that Google's use of Artificial Intelligence ("AI") technology in Google's search results had on Reddit's user growth.In truth, Google's use of AI dented Reddit's user growth by eliminating the need for individuals to visit and click through to Reddit to get answers to their questions. Rather, the answers appeared through Google's AI search results.The Stock Declines as the Truth is RevealedOn May 1, 2025, Reddit reported a significant slowdown in daily active user growth. On this news, the price of Reddit stock declined $4.96 per share, or more than 4%, from $118.79 per share on May 1, 2025, to $113.83 per share on May 2, 2025.Then, on May 21, 2025, Wall Street analyst Baird cut its Reddit stock price target over concerns that Google's AI capabilities are stifling Reddit's user growth. On this news, the price of Reddit stock fell $9.79 per share, or over 9%, from $105.64 per share on May 20, 2025, to $95.85 per share on May 21, 2025.Click here for more information: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/reddit-inc-securities-fraud-class-action What Can You Do?If you invested in Reddit you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm.All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses.Submit your information by visiting:Or contact:Ross Shikowitz ross@ bfalaw.com 212.789.3619Why Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP?BFA is a leading international law firm representing plaintiffs in securities class actions and shareholder litigation. It has been named a top plaintiff law firm by Chambers USA, The Legal 500, and ISS SCAS, and its attorneys have been named "Elite Trial Lawyers" by the National Law Journal, among the top "500 Leading Plaintiff Financial Lawyers" by Lawdragon, "Titans of the Plaintiffs' Bar" by Law360 and "SuperLawyers" by Thomson Reuters. Among its recent notable successes, BFA recovered over $900 million in value from Tesla, Inc.'s Board of Directors, as well as $420 million from Teva Pharmaceutical Ind. Ltd.For more information about BFA and its attorneys, please visit https://www.bfalaw.com Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.SOURCE: Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP The political standoff did not take long. The conviction of former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe on Monday for bribery in criminal proceedings and procedural fraud quickly gave rise to conflicting interpretations. The right has made serious accusations that question the legitimacy of the justice system: it claims that the former conservative president is the victim of persecution, that the ruling is a form of revenge, that democracy is under attack. This view has received support from the United States government. The left, led by President Gustavo Petro, is asking for respect for the justice system and insisting on its independence. On Monday, Judge Sandra Heredia handed down the sentence and said that Uribe, now 73, had asked his lawyer to offer benefits to various individuals, including a former paramilitary, in exchange for providing testimony that would be favorable to Uribe and damaging to the leftist congressmember Ivan Cepeda. Although the lower-court decision may be appealed, it was historic in that it is the first time in modern Colombian history that a former president is convicted in a court of law. Former Colombian President Uribes only crime has been to tirelessly fight and defend his homeland,wrote State Secretary Marco Rubio on X.The weaponization of Colombias judicial branch by radical judges has now set a worrisome precedent. The left has responded that the judges decision must be respected and that this is the first of many expected judicial setbacks for Uribe. The world must respect Colombias judges, declared President Gustavo Petro, the first left-wing president in the countrys recent history. Some of the senators closest to former President Uribe have been denouncing lawfare (the weaponization of justice for political ends), a strategy that lawyer Jaime Granados had already foreseen in a conversation with this newspaper. This is not a ruling, its revenge. Its not a sentence, its an attack. Its not justice, its fear, declared senator and presidential candidate Paloma Valencia on X. Her colleague Maria Fernanda Cabal expressed similar thoughts, stating that the ruling sends a political message. It puts the credibility of institutions at risk. It will be a driving force in the fight for a justice system that is never weaponized to judicialize politics, she said. Vicky Davila, an independent right-wing candidate, asserted that it is the materialization of criminal revenge against those who confronted terrorism, alluding to Uribes aggressive campaign against leftist armed groups during his tenure (2002-2010). These claims are not just an isolated strategy of Uribes supporters. The U.S. government, which has already imposed tariffs on Brazil for its trial against former President Jair Bolsonaro, has echoed the lawfare argument. Besides Secretary Rubio, several Republican congressmembers have lashed out at the South American country. Senator Bernie Moreno asserted that Colombia gets one step closer to illegitimacy. Weve seen this movie before in Venezuela. His colleague Ashley Moody has described the trial as a political persecution. Judge Sandra Liliana Heredia, Senator Ivan Cepeda and former president Alvaro Uribe while the verdict was read out on Monday. The left has been forced to wade into the debate. President Petro stated that both Uribes supporters and opponents must respect the justice system. Anything else is brutal, and Colombia must be wise. This government does not persecute anyone for political, sexual, gender, or religious reasons, he declared on X. He also added that the comments from foreign authorities are an outrage that his country will not allow. It is an intrusion into national sovereignty, he responded to the U.S. Secretary of State. Senator Ivan Cepeda, a Petro supporter and a victim of Uribes witness tampering, has made a similar call: We call on our counterparts to respect and abide by justice. Today is a day to recognize justice as the guarantor of democracy and as an effective check on politicians and their crimes. Juanita Goebertus, Americas director at Human Rights Watch, emphasized that Colombia has an independent judiciary and that Mondays ruling is not a weaponization of justice. Bribing witnesses and committing procedural fraud in a case involving human rights violations is very serious. No one is above the law, she said in messages in English and Spanish published on X. There is particular concern for the safety of the judge who handed down the sentence, Sandra Heredia. The National Protection Unit, in charge of security for officials, issued a statement reporting that it is conducting studies on the judges risk level and said that her security detail might be reinforced. Just the start The left celebrated the Monday ruling but also emphasized that witness tampering is just one of the many crimes they are accusing Uribe of. Senator and presidential candidate Maria Jose Pizarro has called for further investigations into the allegations that gave rise to the entire process that led to Mondays conviction: the ex-paramilitary Juan Guillermo Monsalves statements about the former presidents alleged ties to the paramilitaries. [We must investigate] the role of the Uribe Velez family in the formation of the Bloque Metro paramilitary group, she said, referring to Monsalves testimony. She also mentioned the massacres of El Aro and La Granja and the murder of [lawyer and human rights defender] Jesus Maria Valle, among hundreds of other serious human rights violations, crimes that occurred when Uribe was governor of the department of Antioquia. We not only feel that our dignity is honored [today], but also that of many victims in Colombia, said Senator Cepeda. We also honor this fair decision for the mothers of the missing boys presented as false positives [extrajudicial executions of civilians who were later passed off as paramilitaries], for those who died in the massacres of El Aro, San Roque, and for the judges who were victims of espionage by the DAS [Administrative Department of Security]. To all of them, we say that we will continue until the full extent of the truth is revealed, he declared to the media after leaving the Paloquemao court complex, 13 years after Uribe falsely accused him of bribing witnesses. The Mothers of Soacha, who are demanding justice for their children who were killed during the Uribe administration, thanked the senator for his gesture. Thank you, Ivan. Thank you for honoring our children. For honoring our struggle. PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 14:03:02 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 800 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Former Minister of Health Brings Institutional Leadership to Expand Affiliate Network Across Key Latin American MarketsLAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Regenerative Medical Technologies Group, Inc. (OTCID:RMTG), a global leader in regenerative medicine solutions, today announced the appointment of Dr. Jose Luis Decima as its new representative for Argentina's northern region and Paraguay through its Global Stem Cells Group subsidiary. The strategic appointment expands RMTG's affiliate network into underserved markets with significant growth potential.Leadership and Market Expansion: Dr. Jose Luis Decima, former Minister of Health for the province of Formosa and Director of high-complexity hospitals, brings decades of institutional experience and government healthcare leadership to RMTG's Latin American expansion. His appointment follows RMTG's proven affiliate model, where representatives develop regional centers, training programs, and product distribution networks."Argentina has played a pivotal role in our history, and now we are ready to take the next step by extending our footprint in the north and into Paraguay," said David Christensen, CEO of RMTG. "Dr. Decima brings a wealth of experience and institutional knowledge. We expect that his leadership will be instrumental in helping us bring our therapies and educational programs to even more physicians and patients across this important region." Strategic Partnership Benefits: Institutional Credibility: Former Minister of Health brings government relations expertise and healthcare system knowledge to facilitate market entry and regulatory compliance Geographic Expansion: Northern Argentina and Paraguay represent underserved markets with growing demand for advanced regenerative medicine solutions Infrastructure Development: Plans already underway for a new regenerative medicine center in Formosa with Dr. Apostolo and multidisciplinary team, including training programs and clinical care Revenue Generation: New territory adds to RMTG's affiliate and member network spanning 30+ countries, creating multiple revenue streams through training fees, product sales, and certification programs ISSCA Integration: Regional representative will develop ISSCA training protocols and certification programs, leveraging RMTG's proven education platformBenito Novas, Founder of Global Stem Cells Group, emphasized the historical importance of Argentina in the organization's growth: "This new alliance with Dr. Decima is the continuation of a trusted relationship - but more importantly, it's a new beginning for bringing regenerative medicine to underserved areas with integrity and scientific rigor." Market Opportunity and Regional Strategy: The appointment builds on RMTG's successful Argentina presence, where the Company recently hosted its ISSCA Argentina 2025 event attracting hundreds of medical professionals. Dr. Decima's government healthcare background provides strategic advantages for navigating regulatory environments and establishing institutional partnerships across the region."It is an honor to represent Global Stem Cells Group and ISSCA in Argentina and Paraguay," said Dr. Jose Luis Decima. "The development of regenerative medicine in our region has reached a moment of maturity, and now with this alliance, we are prepared to expand that knowledge and structure into concrete action. Our focus will be on education, responsible practice, and innovation." The expansion aligns with RMTG's recent momentum, including Q1 2025 sales of $1.35M representing 67% growth with operational profits of $134,000. The Company expects that its new affiliate program, commencing in Q3, will generate upfront membership fees of up to $500,000, with new members receiving turnkey assistance in setting up regenerative medicine clinics along with continuous training and support.About RMTG: RMTG operates through its Global Stem Cells Group subsidiary across more than 30 countries, distributing regenerative medicine solutions worldwide while specializing in physician education through its ISSCA platform. The Company's integrated approach combines clinical operations, product distribution, and medical education to capitalize on the rapidly expanding global regenerative medicine market. To learn more, visit www.stemcellsgroup.com CAUTIONARY DISCLOSURE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS The information contained in this publication does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit an offer to buy securities of Regenerative Medical Technologies Group, Inc. (the "Company"). This publication contains forward-looking statements, which are not guarantees of future performance and may involve subjective judgment and analysis. As such, there are no assurances whatsoever that the Company will meet its expectations with respect to future revenues, representative appointments, market expansion in Argentina and Paraguay, or development of new regenerative medicine centers. The information provided herein is believed to be accurate and reliable, however the Company makes no representations or warranties, expressed or implied, as to its accuracy or completeness. There is no guarantee that Dr. Decima's appointment will achieve projected benefits, that planned facilities will be successfully developed, or that market opportunities will materialize as anticipated. The Company has no obligation to provide the recipient with additional updated information. No information in this publication should be interpreted as any indication whatsoever of the Company's future revenues, results of operations, or stock price.Contact: David Christensen, CEO and President Regenerative Medical Technologies Group, Inc. investor.relations@regenmedtechgroup.com | (800) 956-3935SOURCE: Regenerative Medical Technology Group PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 01:06:06 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 795 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 28, 2025 /WHY: New York, N.Y., July 28, 2025. Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the "Western Asset US Core Bond Fund" mutual fund classes - Class I (ticker: "WATFX"), Class A (ticker: "WABAX"), Class C (ticker: "WABCX"), Class FI (ticker: "WAPIX"), Class IS (ticker: "WACSX"), and Class R (ticker: "WABRX") - and the "Western Asset Core Plus Bond Fund" mutual fund classes - Class A (ticker: "WAPAX"), Class C (ticker: "WAPCX"), Class C1 (ticker: "LWCPX"), Class FI (ticker: "WACIX"), Class R (ticker: "WAPRX"), Class I (ticker: "WACPX"), Class IS (ticker: "WAPSX") between January 1, 2021 and October 31, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important September 5, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline.SO WHAT: If you purchased WAMCO mutual funds during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the WAMCO class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=31956 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for more information. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than September 5, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants failed to warn investors that: (1) defendants favored certain WAMCO strategies, like Macro Opps, over other WAMCO strategies, like Core and Core Plus; (2) defendants disfavored certain WAMCO strategies, like Core and Core Plus; (3) any "compliance policies and procedures" that WAMCO maintained "to result in fair allocations of investment opportunities to clients" were either insufficient to ensure that Leech and his WAMCO Team fairly allocated trades among the strategies they managed or were expressly disregarded by defendants in order to allow the favoring of certain WAMCO strategies at the expense of other WAMCO strategies; (3) any "oversight mechanisms" that WAMCO maintained were either insufficient to monitor Leech and his WAMCO Team or were expressly disregarded by defendants in order to allow the favoring of certain WAMCO strategies at the expense of other WAMCO strategies. As a result, defendants' actions operated as a fraud or deceit on the Class, artificially reducing the price of the "Western Asset US Core strategy" mutual fund classes during the Class Period, damaging Class members.To join the WAMCO class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=31956 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for more information.No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm , on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/ Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.---Contact Information:Laurence Rosen, Esq.Phillip Kim, Esq.The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.275 Madison Avenue, 40th FloorNew York, NY 10016Tel: (212) 686-1060Toll Free: (866) 767-3653Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@ rosenlegal.comwww.rosenlegal.com SOURCE: The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 12:00:59 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1030 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Teleport Ride began as a passion project by a family of designers, engineers, and cyclists who wanted more than what the market was offering. And their instincts were right.DENVER, CO / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / In a world increasingly bogged down by traffic congestion, rising fuel costs, and climate concerns, the conversation around urban mobility has never felt more urgent or more stagnant. The buzzwords remain the same: sustainability, efficiency, future-ready. But for all the talk, few brands have managed to truly redefine what urban commuting can and should be.Enter Teleport RideThis isn't just another electric bike brand jockeying for space in an overcrowded market. Teleport Ride is a rebellion disguised as refinement. With its freshly minted U.S. headquarters, a $2 million injection of capital, and a radically upgraded second-generation product line, Teleport isn't just entering a new chapter, it is writing the playbook for how urban e-mobility will look in 2025 and beyond.From Canadian Origins to Global AmbitionOriginally built and tested in Canada's varied terrains and extreme conditions, Teleport Ride began as a passion project by a family of designers, engineers, and cyclists who wanted more than what the market was offering. And their instincts were right.In 2024, the company delivered over 1,000 units across all 50 U.S. states and every Canadian province, an impressive feat for a debut product especially in a category where trust, tech, and timing are everything.That first batch didn't just prove demand; it delivered priceless insight. And now, with Batch Two, Teleport Ride has returned stronger, smarter, and more dialed in.A Bold Leap into U.S. TerritoryThe transition from Canadian startup to U.S.-based e-mobility powerhouse marks more than just a change of address. Backed by a private American investment group, the brand now has the fuel to scale fast and smart. With $2 million in fresh capital, Teleport Ride is poised to do what so many hardware startups fail to achieve: transition from novelty to necessity.In an era where urban planners are rethinking infrastructure and consumers are rethinking ownership, timing is everything. And Teleport's arrival stateside couldn't be better timed.Opinion: Why Teleport Ride Actually MattersLet's be honest: most e-bikes today are fine. Some are fast, some are cheap, some are loaded with features that sound great in theory but fall apart in practice. What's missing? Purposeful engineering and real-world refinement.Teleport Ride breaks from the pack with three distinct, disruptive pillars:Performance:Upgraded motor? Check. Enhanced battery management system (BMS)? Check. Top-tier brakes and controls? Absolutely. Teleport Ride has managed to pack elite specs into one of the lightest frames on the market without sacrificing safety or range. With up to 100 miles on a single charge, regenerative braking, and a self-charging system, it's redefining expectations.Design:Minimalist doesn't mean stripped down, it means intentional. The frame is sleek and quiet, concealing cutting-edge tech while drawing eyes in every city it cruises through. With a carbon belt drive (goodbye greasy chains) and Tektro 180mm disc brakes, the design is both elegant and aggressively modern.Safety:In an industry often plagued by cut corners and questionable certifications, Teleport Ride puts safety front and center. Globally recognized certifications: CPSC, FCC, RoHS, CE, and UN38.3m , ake this bike as compliant as it is confident.Why Urban Commuters Are Ready for TeleportWe're watching a cultural shift. Cities are closing streets to cars, governments are offering e-bike rebates, and young professionals are ditching ride shares in favor of two wheels. The modern commuter doesn't want to be stuck in traffic or chained to public transport schedules; they want control, style, and sustainability. Teleport Ride delivers all three.But more than that, Teleport represents a value shift.This is a brand that believes high-performance tech can be minimalist. That safety can be beautiful. That form should always follow function but that function should also inspire.It's not just about beating traffic; it's about falling in love with your commute.What Batch Two Tells Us About Teleport's FutureWhat's remarkable about the new production run isn't just the upgrades, it's what they signify. Teleport Ride listened. Every improvement in Batch Two is a response to actual user feedback. From battery management to user display, from motor performance to ride comfort, every tweak is built on a conversation with the real world.That kind of agility is rare. That kind of humility is rarer.And it points to something bigger: Teleport Ride isn't just building bikes, it's building a community.Tech for Commuters, Not for Tech's SakeIn an industry often bloated by over-engineered gimmicks, Teleport Ride is refreshingly pragmatic. Its smart features are purposeful, not flashy. Regenerative braking isn't just a buzzword, it's a practical way to extend range. The carbon belt drive doesn't just look clean, it eliminates the maintenance headaches that turn casual riders into frustrated owners.It's this grounded innovation that makes Teleport Ride stand out in a market filled with noise.The Bigger Picture: A Smarter Urban Mobility LandscapeTeleport Ride is more than a product. it's a challenge to the status quo. It asks why our cities are still designed around cars. It asks why clean, beautiful, functional transport isn't the norm. And most of all, it asks why so many e-mobility companies still treat the rider like an afterthought.What Teleport Ride offers isn't just transportation, it's liberation. It's about the freedom to ride where you want, when you want, and to look damn good doing it.Final Thoughts: Ride Smarter. Ride Lighter. Ride Teleport.If the 2020s are the decade of electric mobility, then 2025 is the year of refinement. Consumers aren't dazzled by tech demos anymore, they want real-world performance, aesthetics that resonate, and products that reflect their values.Teleport Ride is all of those things.With a design-first mindset, elite hardware, and a fast-growing North American footprint, Teleport Ride isn't just ready for the next phase of e-mobility, it's shaping it.So whether you're a weekday commuter, a weekend explorer, or just tired of traffic and overpriced fuel, the future is clear:Ride smarter. Ride lighter. Ride Teleport.Media Contact: Teleport Ride CommunicationsEmail: press@ teleportride.com Website: www.teleportride.comLocation: 1500 Grant St #4903, Denver, CO 8020 PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 02:40:14 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 375 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Luxury fashion brand Vaida announces new summer product launches and sustainability milestones as it builds momentum worldwideMIAMI, FL / ACCESS Newswire / July 28, 2025 / Vaida, the lifestyle and fashion brand founded by designer , author, and former model Tina Vaida, announces the global availability of its latest limited-edition accessories and apparel for summer 2025. As part of its ongoing mission to deliver luxury fashion with soul, the brand is expanding its international presence and reaffirming its commitment to the slow fashion movement.Vaida logo With production rooted in Italian craftsmanship and design informed by the founder's Transylvanian heritage, Vaida is gaining recognition for its distinctive blend of conscious luxury, affordable elegance, and timeless design. The brand's new product drop features statement pieces crafted in small batches, including re-releases of its signature TOZA Bag and DeeDee Bag, both made from full-grain leather and adorned with an 18kt gold-plated VAIDA logo.Since its launch just over 3 years ago, Vaida has grown a loyal global following through its online platform by offering fashion beyond fabric, collections designed with purpose, integrity, and sustainability at the forefront. With the motto "Be Unique. Be Yourself," Vaida continues to deliver style with soul through carefully curated selections for women, men, and unisex wearers, along with a growing range of home and lifestyle products.The brand's new seasonal collection also highlights expanded use of ethically sourced materials and packaging, as part of Vaida's 2025 sustainability goals. The company reports improvements in its sourcing transparency and carbon-conscious production processes across its Milan-based suppliers."Our goal is to create meaningful fashion that reflects the energy and individuality of each customer," said a company spokesperson. "Every piece is made to matter, both in craftsmanship and impact." About Vaida Vaida is a luxury fashion and lifestyle brand founded by Tina Vaida, offering ethically produced apparel, accessories, and home goods. With a focus on sustainable fashion, ethical style, and quality over quantity, Vaida combines Italian craftsmanship with Transylvanian roots to deliver fashion with purpose. Its collections are part of the slow fashion movement, built on wearable wisdom and conscious design that celebrates individuality and self-expression. Learn more atwww.vaida.worldor at theirofficial Instagram page .Media Contact: Tina VaidaVAIDA vaida@ vaida.world SOURCE: VAIDA PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 15:04:52 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 501 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Hybrid-Fueled Ramjet to Enable Throttleable, Restartable Missile Systems for Enhanced A2/AD PenetrationCOCOA, FLORIDA / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Vaya Space announces it has been selected by AFWERX for a SBIR Phase II in the amount of $1,236,406 focused on the development of the Hybrid-Fueled Ramjet, a throttleable and restartable hypersonic missile propulsion system, to address the most pressing challenges in the Department of the Air Force (DAF). The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process by accelerating the small business experience through faster proposal to award timelines, changing the pool of potential applicants by expanding opportunities to small business and eliminating bureaucratic overhead by continually implementing process improvement changes in contract execution. The DAF began offering the Open Topic SBIR/STTR program in 2018, which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded, and now on July 9, 2025, Vaya Space will start its journey to create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America."This Phase II award represents a significant advancement in hypersonic propulsion and a strong vote of confidence in Vaya's hybrid technology. Our Hybrid-Fueled Ramjet introduces a new class of adaptable missile propulsion; combining throttleability, restart capability, and mission-tailorable thrust to meet the dynamic demands of modern defense. We're proud to help shape the future of strategic capability for the United States," stated Vaya Space Chief Executive Officer Kevin Lowdermilk.The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense or the U.S. government.About Vaya SpaceVaya Space is a privately owned company based on the Space Coast and leveraging patented Vortex-Hybrid engine technology to disrupt both the Space and Defense markets. Visit VayaSpace.com for more information.About AFRLThe Air Force Research Laboratory, or AFRL, is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace forces. With a workforce spanning across nine technology areas and 40 other operations around the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit afresearchlab.com.About AFWERXAs the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF. AFWERX employs approximately 320 military, civilian and contractor personnel at four hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has awarded over 10,400 contracts worth more than $7.24 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. For more information, visit afwerx.com Contact InformationMary BaldinoDirector of Marketingmary.baldino@vayaspace.com 321-446-5905SOURCE: Vaya Space PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 01:30:50 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 505 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 28, 2025 / If you suffered a loss on your Vestis Corporation (NYSE:VSTS) investment and want to learn about a potential recovery under the federal securities laws, follow the link below for more information:or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. via email at jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com or call (212) 363-7500 to speak to our team of experienced shareholder advocates.THE LAWSUIT: A class action securities lawsuit was filed against Vestis Corporation that seeks to recover losses of shareholders who were adversely affected by alleged securities fraud between May 2, 2024 and May 6, 2025.CASE DETAILS: According to the complaint, defendants provided overwhelmingly positive statements to investors while, at the same time, disseminating materially false and misleading statements and/or concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of Vestis' ability to grow its business; notably that Vestis would be unable to execute on planned strategic initiatives to drive purported improvements to the customer experience and its onboarding efforts in order to drive new customer growth, increased customer retention, and increased revenue from existing customers.On May 7, 2025, Vestis announced its financial results for the second quarter of fiscal 2025, withdrew its revenue and growth guidance for the full fiscal year 2025, and provided guidance for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 that fell significantly below market expectations. The Company attributed its poor results partially to "lost business in excess of new business," but primarily on "lower adds over stops, which is how we describe volume changes with our existing customers." The Company attributed its decision to pull full-year guidance and provide disappointing third quarter targets to the "increasingly uncertain macro environment." Following this news, the price of Vestis' common stock declined dramatically. From a closing market price of $8.71 per share on May 6, 2025, Vestis' stock price fell to $5.44 per share on May 7, 2025, a decline of about 37.54% in the span of just a single day.WHAT'S NEXT? If you suffered a loss in Vestis stock during the relevant time frame - even if you still hold your shares - go to https://zlk.com/pslra-1/vestis-corporation-lawsuit-submission-form?prid=158566&wire=1&utm_campaign=26 to learn about your rights to seek a recovery. There is no cost or obligation to participate.WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY: Over the past 20 years, Levi & Korsinsky LLP has established itself as a nationally-recognized securities litigation firm that has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. The firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 15:02:50 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 487 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Large Cap Banks Powerful ReboundBRIARCLIFF MANOR, NEW YORK / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Whalen Global Advisors LLC (WGA) has published the latest edition ofthe WGA Top 50 Banks , the fifty top performing large commercial banks in the US. Drawn from the members of Peer Group 1 and other sources, WGA screens the group based upon five proprietary measures of financial and market performance. Logo WGA logo"The banking group has rebounded strongly since the lows of April," notes WGA Chairman Christopher Whalen. "The top performing bank stock in Q2 2025 was SoFi Technologies, Inc. (SOFI), which benefited from the upsurge in financials and crypto stocks. SOFI is making great progress, but a large number of stablecoin firms that are touting a future bank charter will likely fail as a business." The top ten banks in the WGA Top 50 Banks include:Synchrony FinancialSYFJP MorganJPMGoldman SachsGSAxos FinancialAXCharles SchwabSCHWEast-West BancorpEWBCNorthern TrustNTRSRegions FinancialRFFifth-Third BancorpFITBMorgan StanleyMSThe WGA Top 50 Banks represents the best performers among more than 100 banks over $10 billion in assets. WGA scores the entire population of banks each quarter using a proprietary model where size is only one factor. Most ETFs, for example, select members solely by size. The WGA approach ensures that the top scoring banks have the highest rank on the WGA Bank Top 50 list regardless of size. All of the constituents of the WGA Bank Top 50 are available to subscribers to the IRA Annual Service."Synchrony Financial (SYF), a provider of white label credit cards, was the top performing bank in our group in Q2 2025, suggesting that investors are not worried about a consumer recession," Whalen notes. "After volatility in Q2 2025, a number of leading financials are now firmly back in the top 10, including Goldman Sachs, Charles Schwab and East-West Bancorp. But we also see two regionals, Regions and Fifth-Third." Whalen noted that SOFI, which was the best performing bank stock over the past year by a large margin, only ranked 39th in the WGA Bank Top 50 due to weak operating efficiency. "SOFI has an efficiency ratio close to 90 and has yet to grow into the overhead of the fintech model. They need to double assets per employee to get efficiency down toward the peer average in the 60s, but investors are not bothered about profitability. In this speculative market, the hotter stocks are the unprofitable stories." About Whalen Global Advisors LLCWhalen Global Advisors LLC (WGA) is a New York consulting, risk advisory and publishing company that focuses on financial institutions and global markets. WGA publishes The Institutional Risk Analyst (ISSN 2692-1812), the WGA Top 50 Banks, and commentary on the capital markets, industry reports and company profiles. For additional information, please contact us at:info@ rcwhalen.com Contact InformationChris Whalen Chairmanchris@ rcwhalen.com 914-645-5304SOURCE: Whalen Global Advisors LLC PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-29 18:45:53 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 379 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / With Intelligence recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to With Intelligence.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On June 28, 2025, People Check, a third-party vendor for With Intelligence, discovered that threat actors had accessed data using compromised login credentials. On July 7, 2025, People Check alerted With Intelligence that data processed on its behalf may have been affected.The impacted files may have included your name, email, internal reference name, date of birth, phone number, birth city, Social Security number, gender, mother name, and share code.On July 11, 2025, With Intelligence reported the breach to the Massachusetts Attorney General and began notifying affected individuals. Compensation may be available for those individuals who receive notice that their sensitive personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from With Intelligence, you are likely to be affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. Our firm works on a 100% contingency fee basis - you pay nothing unless we win your case! Visit our website to learn more. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has withdrawn its lawsuit against the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), and five other petroleum companies. The case, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja with suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1324/2024, was formally discontinued on Monday by the plaintiffs legal team. According to a notice of discontinuance filed before the court, Dangote Refinery resolved to end the proceedings against all seven defendants, including AYM Shafa Limited, A. A. Rano Limited, T. Time Petroleum Limited, 2015 Petroleum Limited, and Matrix Petroleum Services Limited. The document, dated 28 July, was signed by its lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). Take notice that the plaintiff herein discontinues this suit against the defendants forthwith, the court notice read. In the notice, no official reason was given in the filing for the decision to discontinue the case. Details of the decision, including the reliefs sought and whether an out-of-court settlement was reached, remain unclear as of press time. The case Dangote Refinery, in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1324/2024, had requested the court to award N100 billion in damages against the NMDPRA for issuing import licenses to some marketers and allowing the importation of petroleum products. The marketers are NNPC Ltd, Matrix Petroleum Services Limited, AYM Shafa Limited, A. A. Rano Limited, T. Time Petroleum Limited, and 2015 Petroleum Limited. In the suit dated 6 September 2024, the plaintiffs lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, asked the court to declare that NMDPRA is allegedly in violation of Sections 317(8) and (9) of the Petroleum Industry Act by issuing licenses for the importation of petroleum products. The Dangote Refinery said such licenses should only be issued when a petroleum product shortfall exists. The refinery also urged the court to declare that NMDPRA violates its statutory responsibilities under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) for not encouraging local refineries such as Dangote Refinery. But in a counter affidavit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1324/2024 dated 5 November 2024, and filed by Ahmed Raji (SAN), the marketers requested that the court dismiss Dangote Refinerys claims, insisting that competitive practices are essential to Nigerias economic health and the oil sectors viability. They argued that they are fully qualified to receive an import licence from NMDPRA, under Section 317(9) of the PIA. The three defendants claim the plaintiff allegedly seeks to monopolise the petroleum industry in Nigeria, where it alone would control supply, distribution, and pricing. NMDPRA further clarified that it issued oil licences to NNPC Limited and oil marketers to address petroleum product shortfalls in the country. In its counter-affidavit, sworn to by Idris Musa, a Senior Regulatory Officer, NMDPRA, argued that Dangote Refinery was not entitled to the prayers sought. Mr Musa said the refinerys production does not meet the national daily consumption requirement. He added that, in line with Section 317(9) of the Petroleum Industry Act, NMDPRA issued import licences to companies with a track record of international products trading to bridge the supply gap. Mr Musa said the agency is mandated to promote competition and prevent monopolies in the sector, denying allegations of conspiracy against the plaintiff. On 9 December 2024, the plaintiff sought a motion to amend its originating process to correct the name of the second defendant from Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited to Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited. In response, the second defendant, NNPC Limited, raised a preliminary objection, arguing that the suit was incompetent and should be struck out for misidentification, among other grounds. The objection was supported by an affidavit deposed to by Isiaka Popoola, a litigation clerk in the law firm representing the company. On 18 March 2025, the then-judge, Inyang Ekwo, dismissed the objection, ruling that the error in name did not render the suit defective. The court also held that the defendants should have responded to the substantive claims before raising procedural objections. On 19 March, the judge granted the plaintiffs motion to amend its originating summons and directed parties to proceed on the merits of the case. In July, the Federal High Court in Abuja had fixed 29 September for the hearing of a suit filed. Judge Mohammed Umar fixed the date after counsel for Dangote Refinery, George Ibrahim, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), sought an adjournment to allow parties to regularise their processes. Dangote Refinery The 650,000 barrels per day Dangote Petroleum Refinery commenced diesel and aviation fuel production in January 2024. In September 2024, the refinery announced it had begun the processing of petrol, with the aim of ending Nigerias reliance on imported refined petroleum products and boosting the nations energy security. However, the refinery faced controversy related to crude oil supply shortages, pricing disputes, and concerns about its impact on domestic fuel prices and the overall economy. Last year, NNPC ended its exclusive purchase agreement with Dangote Refinery, opening up the market for other marketers to buy petrol directly from the refinery. The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, on Tuesday vowed that the government would put an end to incessant strikes by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other trade unions in the education sector. The president has directed that not again, not again ever in this country will ASUU or tertiary institutions, trade unions, teachers, lecturers go on strike, Mr Alausa said during an interview on Channels Televisions Politics Today, Tuesday evening. He said the government would achieve this through dialogue, maintaining a good relationship with union heads and meeting the demands of the unions. Lately, we have not met all their requests, but we are working assiduously to meet those requests, the minister said. ASUU has frequently embarked on strikes to demand better welfare, university funding, and autonomy. The strikes have severely disrupted the academic calendar across Nigerias public universities, causing delayed graduations, student frustration, and brain drain. Education quality also suffers, and Nigerias human capital development is hampered. One significant strike occurred from 14 February to 14 October 2022, lasting eight gruelling months. ASUUs reasons included the governments failure to implement the 2009 agreement, specifically regarding university revitalization funds and earned academic allowances. They also rejected the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS) for their University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS). This protracted strike, like others, highlights deep-seated issues in Nigerias public university system, leaving students and parents in limbo and threatening future industrial actions. Mr Alausa also apologised to the staff of tertiary institutions for the delay in the payment of salaries they experienced in previous months. He noted that he was working closely with the Minister of Finance to ensure that salaries are paid much earlier. I will use this medium to apologise to them and plead with them to be patient with us. As a government, we are working to ensure that you get paid much earlier in the month, or probably before the last day of the previous month. I have met with the Minister for Finance, and hes given me assurance that that will be taken care of. Earlier this month, the ASUU directed its members to stay away from work in branches where June salaries remained unpaid. The ASUU president, Chris Piwuna, said the union was ready to escalate the situation if July salaries were delayed. The delay in the payment of salaries of staff of tertiary institutions has been attributed to the removal of academic institutions from the federal governments Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). Academic unions, particularly ASUU, kicked against IPPIS, arguing that the centralised payment system violates university autonomy and fails to accommodate the peculiarities of academic work. After a prolonged battle between ASUU and the government, the Federal Executive Council approved the unions request to use the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS), a payment platform the union argues provides greater flexibility. Diaspora bridge initiative During the interview, the education minister shed light on a novel initiative, Bridge Initiative, a digital platform meant for connecting diasporan professionals with tertiary institutions. This is a coordinated, technologically-based platform that we are using to connect our diaspora professionals with our local tertiary institutions, our universities, our polytechnics, our colleges of education, and our research institutions. Mr Alausa noted that the initiative came as a need to reintegrate the diasporan professionals into the country. He explained that both universities and diasporan professionals would register on the initiatives website. The nature of the initiative is hybrid, online, and offline. Mr Alausa disclosed that the professionals would serve as volunteers, but the cost of transportation and accommodation for those travelling into the country would be offset by the government. The government will pay for your flight, will pay for your logistics while youre here, including feeding, accommodation, transportation. We will provide all those logistics for you, free of charge, through the government. The only thing we wont pay you is a stipend, because you dont need it. Mr Alausa also clarified that the Bridge Initiative is open to professionals within Nigeria who would be willing to volunteer. About 100 people have been deported from Alligator Alcatraz, the controversial migrant detention center hastily erected by the Florida government with tents and trailers in the vast Everglades swamps. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced last Friday that the first two or three flights to different countries had begun, without specifying which ones, and that he expected them to increase soon to continue deporting the hundreds of detainees currently at the center. Some of the people being held there told EL PAIS that authorities are pressuring them, almost forcing them, to sign agreements to be deported, and that to access an immigration court they have to be transferred to Miami, which entails a wait of a month. On Monday, in a hearing on a lawsuit alleging that detainees are being denied access to the judicial system and held without charges, a federal judge requested more information to get to the bottom of the legal agreements governing operations at the detention center. As the legal proceedings move forward, it remains unclear which local, state, or federal authorities are in charge of what, even though the facility has already received hundreds of people in less than a month of operation. The plaintiffs attorneys, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Americans for Immigration Court, point out that resolving these legal issues is an emergency because, according to statements made in the hearings, the immigration courts have no jurisdiction over what happens at the remote detention center. So now, in practice, the detainees are at the center of a legal limbo. The center was built in just eight days on a former airstrip in the middle of a nature reserve in the sprawling wetlands west of Miami, seeking to please President Donald Trump, who gave his endorsement during a visit to the facility for its inauguration on July 2. The Florida state government began transferring detainees there almost immediately, without providing detailed and consistent information to Miami-Dade County, the official owner of the site, or to local lawmakers who requested access after complaints of poor conditions, poor hygiene, and mistreatment. Attorneys for Florida argued that since the lawsuit in question was filed less than two weeks ago, the detainees have begun meeting with their lawyers in person and in videoconference rooms, according to the AP. The federal judge presiding over the case, Rodolfo A. Ruiz II, has asked the civil rights groups to consolidate their arguments and scheduled a new hearing for August 18. Pressure to accept deportation under deplorable conditions The only option theyre offering is deportation. They dont want to say anything, they dont want to let anyone in. They wont even make calls to lawyers, says a Venezuelan man from Tampa detained at Alligator Alcatraz. He asked to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals and says his wife is a U.S. citizen. The only thing theyre telling me is that I have no option, that the most likely solution is deportation. I dont want to be deported; Im here in the process of getting my papers sorted out and everything, he added. The man, who says he was detained for a traffic violation, claimed he has a lawyer, but they wont let him begin the process until hes supposedly transferred from the center to the central prison in Miami. But then they say its a month [to wait]... When we go to the central prison in Miami, thats when the detention begins. But this is a detention here, and we dont have any process here, he argued. His family, lawyers, and everyone looking for him on the ICE database cant find him in the system, he said. They offer you voluntary deportation, when its a lie, when we have the right to fight a case and also to get out on bail. I have two children, he says. Two Mexican brothers detained at the center since the beginning of the month for a traffic incident in Orlando, Carlos Martin Gonzalez, 26, and his brother Oscar Alejandro, 30, are now in Mexico, the Foreign Ministry reported Monday. Neither faces charges in their home country, according to the Foreign Ministry. Their families reported that the brothers had not had access to immigration lawyers, the consulate, or their own families, and that their constitutional rights were being violated. Another Cuban inmate reports that the food consists of saltine crackers, sandwiches, and sometimes an apple, and that they are allowed to bathe every three or four days, for less than four minutes per person. Some new arrivals go several days without a toothbrush. On Sunday, since they barely have time to eat, the Cuban man says, an inmate ate quickly and, as he left the dining room, collapsed. The guards gave him CPR. There are no firefighters in here or anything. The mans eyes were white. They carried him outside and havent brought him back, he says. If a person takes too long eating, they take their food and throw it away, he added. Dinner is at 6 p.m., and they dont eat anything else until 7 a.m. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) told EL PAIS earlier this month that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) does not manage the Alligator Alcatraz facility, but rather the State of Florida, through its Division of Emergency Management. Florida has National Guard officers operating under the 287(g) program and trained to perform detention functions, it added in an email. Judge Ruiz said Monday that this is part of the problem: who is doing what at this facility? the AP reported. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Some of Africas most influential leaders Aliko Dangote, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and Akinwumi Adesina have endorsed Making It Big, the new memoir by Nigerian billionaire and business magnate, Femi Otedola, as the book officially goes on sale. The business heavyweights lauded the book for its rich insights, motivational value, and relevance to aspiring entrepreneurs and policymakers on the continent. Describing Making It Big as important and timely, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization, noted the rarity of books by African business leaders documenting their journeys. When Femi Otedola, one of Nigerias and Africas most successful entrepreneurs, decides to capture his experiences in the form of this book, it is important! she said. There are very few books by successful African business leaders documenting their journey and sharing lessons learned for posterity, but in particular for a younger generation. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, called Making It Big a must-read for everyone interested in entrepreneurship and leadership. The book is a must-read for all business leaders, policy makers and young people venturing into the world of entrepreneurship and business, he said. Africas richest man, Aliko Dangote, praised the books practical guidance and relatable narrative, saying it offers useful insights for surmounting business hurdles and is a highly recommended read for anyone who aspires to be successful in a challenging environment. Making It Big, now available for pre-order at www.makingitbigbook.com, is Mr Otedolas first book. It chronicles his personal and professional journey, highlighting the principles and mindset that helped him rise from modest beginnings to become a Forbes-rated billionaire and one of Africas most respected entrepreneurs and philanthropists. The author describes the book as a masterclass in attaining and maintaining a positive mindset and a reminder that it is possible to defy the odds, no matter how stacked they are against you. Pre-order prices are $19.99 for the soft cover edition and $27.99 for the hard cover. Beginning August 18, the book will also be available through three official distributors: Narrative Landscape Press for West Africa, Soma Nami Books for East and Southern Africa, and Amazon for the rest of the world. According to promoters, deliveries are expected to be completed within 10 days of ordering. Mr Otedolas Making It Big is expected to resonate not just with entrepreneurs, but also with anyone interested in leadership, resilience, and the African business landscape. The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has officially inaugurated the Hospitality, Travel and Tourism Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal, a pioneering body established to enforce ethical standards, licensing compliance, and professionalism. The tribunals Chairperson, former Chief Judge of the FCT Ishaq Bello, experienced in legal reform and judicial leadership, is expected to bring credibility and strength to the initiative. The PREMIUM TIMES reported that the hospitality and tourism ministry established the Hospitality, Travel and Tourism Tribunal (HTTT), as an independent regulatory and adjudicatory body empowered to address disputes, enforce standards, and ensure compliance in the hospitality, tourism, and travel sectors. While stressing the initiatives importance at the inaugural ceremony, the Chairperson, House Committee on Tourism, Muktar Mohammed, applauded NIHOTOURs forward-thinking initiative. He said the tribunal is a turning point in our collective resolve to promote quality, safety, and global best practices in the sector. Mr Mohammed, who also chaired the inaugural ceremony, clarified that the tourism and hospitality industry is a critical pillar of the Nigerian economy whose standards must be enforced. The hospitality industry is a vital pillar of our national economy. However, for it to thrive sustainably, compliance with professional training and licensing standards must not be optional; it must be enforced, he stated. He further emphasised that the tribunal is not merely punitive but reformative in spirit, which will protect the industrys integrity and enhance tourism sector delivery. The Chairperson said, It will serve as a platform for transparency, fairness, and reform. It will ensure that hoteliers, operators, and institutions meet the benchmarks etof NIHOTOUR and the Federal Ministry of Tourism. This is not just about enforcement it is about protecting the integrity of our industry, enhancing service delivery, and building a tourism sector we can all be proud of, he said. Tribunals roles Additionally, the Minister of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, who Ayodele Adebanjo represented, praised the tribunals establishment as a bold and necessary move. The Hospitality, Travel and Tourism Tribunal is a bold expression of this administrations resolve to clean up and elevate the tourism space. We stand firmly behind NIHOTOUR and its leadership in this visionary step, she stated through her representative. Similarly, the Director-General of NIHOTOUR, Abisoye Fagade, noted that the tribunal is central to the Institutes transformation from a training institution into a regulatory authority. Mr Fagade reiterated that the tribunals inauguration has empowered NIHOTOUR to safeguard practitioners reputations. He said, Our industry must operate on the foundation of competence, ethics, and standards. The tribunal gives us the authority to enforce discipline and safeguard practitioners reputations and the publics trust. The tribunal is empowered to investigate and adjudicate cases involving professional misconduct, licensing violations, and ethical breaches by practitioners and institutions within the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors. It is designed to work collaboratively with stakeholders across public and private spheres to raise the bar for service delivery and sector integrity. With this inauguration, Nigeria takes a bold step toward institutionalising accountability and professionalism, positioning the country as a destination ready to meet global expectations. The Nigerian government has unveiled a comprehensive plan to transform neurological healthcare in the country, with new policies, investments and collaborations to improve brain and spine health response over the next decade. The Special Adviser to the President on Health, Salma Ibrahim, made this known on Tuesday at the inaugural Africa Neurological Health Summit 2025 in Abuja. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the summit was Policy and Advocacy in Neurological Healthcare: Bridging the Gap Towards Achieving WHO-IGAP Goals 20222031. It brought together leading neurologists, researchers, policymakers and patient advocates from across the continent. Mrs Ibrahim, who was represented by her Technical Adviser, Ahmed Yakasai, outlined a five-pillar strategy in alignment with President Bola Tinubus Renewed Hope Health Agenda. She said that neurological disorders ranging from epilepsy and stroke to traumatic spinal injuries, pose a significant challenge to Nigerias health and economic systems, affecting millions of lives. This summit must not be a talk shop. We must use it to accelerate policy implementation that brings real solutions to patients and families living with neurological conditions, she said. She unveiled five critical areas that would drive the federal governments new neurological health agenda. According to her, the government will establish a National Neurological Health Framework by introducing standardised care protocols and outcome indicators to improve care across all levels of the health system. She said that it would also invest in Workforce and Infrastructure Development through targeted training, equitable deployment of specialists, and equipment upgrades to bridge the care gap from tertiary to primary facilities. Health Financing Expansion will be prioritised, with a specialised neurology benefit package being finalised under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), aimed at reducing out-of-pocket expenses, she said She said the government will promote Tele-Neurology and Digital Health Tools by deploying new platforms to enhance diagnosis, continuous monitoring and remote consultations, especially in underserved regions. Brain Health Equity will be advanced through advocacy and partnerships with civil society organisations to reduce stigma, foster social inclusion and empower patients across the country, she said. Mrs Ibrahim said that as part of its commitment, three new neurological centres had been commissioned in Kano, Port Harcourt and Maiduguri. These centres are equipped to manage conditions such as epilepsy and stroke, and are supported by university teaching hospitals to ensure a steady pipeline of trained neurologists, she said. The special adviser also issued a strong call for cross-sector collaboration. She urged state governments to invest in neuro-care services at the sub-national level to ensure equitable access. She called on health insurance providers to prioritise neurological conditions in benefit packages to reduce financial burden. Mrs Ibrahim appealed to civil society and the media to shift the narrative from stigma to hope and raise awareness. She further encouraged global partners to support Nigerias efforts by funding research, technology and capacity-building initiatives that align with the governments political commitment. Mya Ngon, Team Lead for Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases at WHO Nigeria Office, reaffirmed the organisations commitment to supporting Nigeria in scaling up interventions for the prevention, management and rehabilitation of neurological disorders. Ms Ngon stressed the importance of sustained partnerships to consolidate progress across the continent. At WHO, we would like to recommit ourselves to working with the Federal Ministry of Health and all key stakeholders to scale up interventions. This is essential to ensure that the growing number of people living with neurological conditions can access the quality care, treatment and rehabilitation they need, she said. She described the summit as a unique opportunity to foster collaboration and reach consensus on evidence-based recommendations that can improve health outcomes in Africa. Ms Ngon assured participants that WHO remained fully committed to supporting Nigerias brain and spine health initiatives. She expressed optimism that the summit would yield actionable solutions and stronger intersectoral coordination. NAN reports that event concluded with a unified call for concrete, time-bound commitments to reposition neurological healthcare as a national and continental priority. (NAN) The Governor of Gombe State and Chairman of the Northern Nigerian Governors Forum, Inuwa Yahaya, has outlined the performances and challenges of the President Bola Tinubu administration over the past two years. The governor said evidence of progress is visible across the northern region and commended President Tinubus Renewed Hope Agenda. The governor said many projects started by the previous administration are now racing towards completion. He said this at the Citizen Engagement Programme organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SAMBF) in Kaduna to assess how the Tinubu administration has delivered on its electoral promises to the northern region. Mr Yahaya, said in the last two years, the northern region has witnessed significant progress in addressing major security challenges. Through coordinated military operations and improved intelligence gathering, over 300 bandit kingpins and terrorist commanders have been eliminated, disrupting criminal networks that terrorized our communities. While challenges remain, the trajectory is clear the siege on our people is being lifted, Mr Yahaya said. Below is the full statement by Mr Yahaya Opening Remarks by His Excellency, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, Governor of Gombe State and Chairman of Northern States Governors Forum on the Ocassion of the 2-Day Interactive Session on Government-Citizens Engagement Organized by the Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, 29th 30th, 2025, Arewa House, Kaduna, Nigeria. Protocols It is my honour to address this distinguished gathering as we undertake this vital exercise in democratic accountability. The theme of todays program Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government-Citizen Engagement for National Unity speaks to the very heart of what makes democracy meaningful. True democracy and good governance are not a one-way street, but a continuous dialogue between leaders and citizens. 2. Forums like this are crucial to building public trust and strengthening citizens participation in governance. They are not just meant to showcase achievements, but to create spaces where citizens can question, suggest, and hold power accountable. As leaders, we must have the humility to accept our mistakes where we err, and make adjustments where possible, based on the needs and feedback of the people. 3. When candidate Bola Ahmed Tinubu stood before us during the 2023 campaign, he made specific commitments to Northern Nigeria. The north, believing in Presidents Tinubus vision, voted strongly for him, contributing to over 60% of Tinubus winning votes. 4. Today, we gather not for empty rhetoric, but to examine those promises and assess the level of progress so far. What we find is an administration that has delivered meaningful results for our region despite facing significant national challenges. This shows that our democracy can only work when leaders deliver on their promises, and leaders can only deliver when citizens are engaged, and policies and programs are designed and implemented in ways that reflect the yearnings and aspirations of the citizenry. 5. I make bold to say that the evidence of progress is visible across our region. Thanks to Mr. Presidents renewed hope agenda, many projects started by the previous administration are now racing towards completion. These include the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Expressway, the Kano-Katsina-Maradi rail line, the rehabilitation of the Kaduna Refinery, the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Gas Pipeline project, and continuation of drilling activities in Kolmani Oilfields. These projects, promise to bring industrial growth and energy security to Northern Nigeria. 6. New infrastructure projects are also coming up, including various inter-state road networks like and the ambitious Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway that will connect Northern producers to southern markets, agriculture value chain initiative targeting northern states, expansion and upgrade of healthcare facilities all point to a deliberate policy towards uplifting the wellbeing of our people. 7. On the security front, we have witnessed significant progress. Through coordinated military operations and improved intelligence gathering, over 300 bandit kingpins and terrorist commanders have been eliminated, disrupting criminal networks that terrorized our communities. While challenges remain, the trajectory is clear the siege on our people is being lifted. 8. The creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development addresses a generations-old challenge, providing a framework to modernize our pastoral economy. This administration has also demonstrated commitment to our youth through targeted grants and renewed efforts to tackle the Almajiri and out-of-school children crisis through partnerships with state governments, traditional institutions and international partners. 9. There is no doubt that the economic reforms undertaken by this administration, including fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate floatation, have come with debilitating side effects. However, these were necessary measures in order to stabilize our economy for long-term growth. The pain is real, but so is the progress. 10. To sustain and build on these gains, all Northern stakeholders must play their part. Our state governments must complement federal initiatives with local investments in infrastructure and human capital development. Traditional rulers and religious leaders should continue their vital role in community mobilization and conflict resolution. Business leaders and civil society must maintain their constructive engagement. 11. As we review engage with representatives of the Federal Government, let us do so with fairness and wisdom. The Norths partnership with President Tinubus administration has yielded concrete results, from infrastructure to security to governance. In 2027, we must reward performance and hard work, and by that measure, President Tinubu has earned our continued support. 12. Our regions decisive support for this administration was rooted in the understanding that the North-Southwest alliance is not merely political arithmetic, but a stabilizing force for national unity. As the late Sardauna reminded us in his autobiography: The Norths strength lies in its unity with all Nigeria. I urge us all to continue with our support for the Tinubu administration, in the spirit of national unity, harmony and progress. 13. Distinguished guests, the true measure of our democracy is not found in campaign promises and slogans, but in what happens after the elections are over. Democracy thrives in the spaces we create for honest dialogue, in the accountability we demand from our leaders, and in the responsibility we all share to build a Nigeria that works for every citizen. 14. Todays gathering exemplifies how we should govern not from the comfort of our offices, but in constant conversation with the people we serve. For when government and citizens work as true partners, there is no challenge we cannot overcome, no unity we cannot achieve, and no future too bold for us to build together. 15. Thank you for listening. I wish us all fruitful and insightful discussions, so that we all leave here better equipped to serve the Nigerian people. God bless northern Nigeria! God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!! Medical services were disrupted across several public hospitals in Lagos on Monday as doctors under the state governments employment commenced a three-day warning strike to protest salary deductions and unpaid arrears. At the Orthopaedic Clinic of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), four patients sat quietly in the waiting area after scheduled appointments were cancelled due to the strike. One of the patients, a middle-aged woman with rheumatism who declined to give her name, said her pain had worsened and she had looked forward to the consultation. I have severe pain in my legs and was hoping the doctor would help today. But theyve postponed my appointment to 4 August, she said, looking distressed. Now I have to manage with just the medicine. You shouldnt have met me; I should have gone home, but my leg is aching. It feels like a hook, I cant walk properly. The Medical Guild declared a warning strike on Saturday following an emergency congress. The union, which represents doctors employed by the Lagos State Government, is protesting what it describes as illegal and disrespectful deductions from July salaries and unpaid 12-month arrears under the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS). Despite appeals by the Lagos government to shelve the action, the strike commenced early Monday, affecting services across LASUTH and other hospitals in the state. Only admitted patients At LASUTH, PREMIUM TIMES observed that while some departments, such as physiotherapy, were attending to patients, most clinics were limiting care to only admitted patients. New patients were not being allowed in, and appointments were being rescheduled. A patient named Bolu Alao, seen outside the Medical Emergency Unit, confirmed that no new patients were being taken in. They just told us to come back later, she said. Another woman, who had accompanied her elderly mother to the orthopaedic department, was informed that her mothers appointment had also been cancelled due to the strike. Across departments like Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), waiting areas and corridors appeared unusually empty. Other hospitals affected At the General Hospital in Ifako-Ijaiye, a woman who identified herself as Mrs Kasali shared a personal story of negligence involving her sister-in-law. Although unrelated to the current strike, she used the opportunity to express frustration with the healthcare services. She said her sister-in-law laboured for two days at the hospital, and was eventually moved for a Caesarean section, and later referred to a private facility where she died after complications. The family, she added, was now being told to pay a balance of N120,000 before they could take custody of the child. They are still holding the baby. Weve already spent over a million. Its heartbreaking, she said. An elderly woman, Victoria Bolatito, was seen waiting at the Traige and Oxygen centre, but expressed uncertainty about whether she would be attended to. Guild warns of escalation In a statement posted on its X account, the Medical Guild said the warning strike followed repeated breaches by the government in honouring previous agreements. We are prepared to escalate our measures if the government does not respond swiftly. The welfare of our members and the integrity of the health system are at stake, an official of the Guild said. The union has warned that failure to meet its demands could lead to an indefinite strike after a 21-day ultimatum that will follow the warning action. In a message to its members, it urged full compliance and warned that sanctions would be applied for non-compliance. Our monitoring and strike enforcement team will be on patrol to ensure adherence, the message read. Government appeals for dialogue The Lagos state government, in a statement, said it was concerned about the issues raised and was engaging with the Medical Guild through an existing conciliation committee. Meetings have been held, and documents submitted by the Guild are being carefully reviewed in line with existing policies and fiscal regulations, the statement signed by Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, said. As a responsible government, we value the critical role our healthcare professionals play in delivering quality and timely health services to the over 20 million residents of Lagos State. We urge the Medical Guild to continue on the path of dialogue while we work to reach a peaceful and just resolution. The government added that contingency plans were being implemented to minimise the impact on healthcare delivery during the strike period. NMA backs strike The Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has backed the Medical Guilds action, blaming the strike on what it described as sudden, illegal and unfair deductions from doctors July salaries without any prior notice. NMA Lagos Chairman, Saheed Kehinde, stated that the deductions, which ranged from N30,000 to N300,000 depending on the grade level, had previously occurred in April but were reversed following intervention. There were several meetings and we felt the issue had been resolved, but to our surprise, the deductions happened again, he said. Mr Kehinde accused government agencies of deliberately targeting state-employed doctors, claiming the justification given was that Lagos doctors earn more than their federal counterparts due to the states higher minimum wage. He warned that the strike had already led to avoidable health risks for patients, with many unable to access care in state-run hospitals, which account for about 70 per cent of public health facilities in Lagos. The strike has caused unnecessary and preventable health mortality and morbidity in the state. It shouldnt have happened, he said. He added that the strike would be suspended immediately if the government refunds the deducted salaries. Ministers and top officials in President Bola Tinubus administration are gathering at the Arewa House in Kaduna to give accounts of the federal governments performance over the past two years. The forum, organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SAMBF), will allow political, traditional and religious leaders from the 19 northern states to meet with the federal officials on Tuesday and Wednesday and assess how well the administration has delivered on the electoral promises made during the 2023 campaign, especially those targeted at their region. Tinubus promises Mr Tinubu had, in March 2021, at the annual Arewa House Lectures, which he chaired in the same Arewa House in Kaduna, called for massive investment in job creation to address the economic and security challenges of the region. The lectures theme was Reduction of the Cost of Governance for Inclusive Growth and Youth Development in Northern Nigeria in a Post-COVID-19 Era. He said the government must think creatively in finding solutions to the challenges posed by unemployment. According to him, frustration and despair among the youth were largely caused by chronic poverty and the breakdown of social institutions. Building vital infrastructures such as irrigation and water catchment systems will help agriculture, arrest desertification, and provide jobs. Another readily available area primed for investment is the agro-allied industry, which, for the northern region, is particularly advantageous, he said. On the herder/farmer dispute, he said the government must appreciate that martial security measures alone will not suffice. We cannot resolve this problem by holding on to one-dimensional answers. We must all be dispassionate in our search for solutions. These challenges are multifaceted, and so the solutions must be. The issue of insecurity, unemployment, and extremism has many things to do with governance, over time. We must tackle our deep and widespread poverty. If we limit the governments role under the erroneous assumption that government spending is intrinsically unproductive, then we tether ourselves to failure. The development of any populous nation has always been dependent on the ability of the government to allocate sufficient funds to projects and programmes that create and encourage enduring growth and employment, Mr Tinubu said in 2021. Five years later, President Tinubus officials have returned to the same venue to explain how much of what he promised in 2021 and during electioneering in 2023 has been delivered. The theme for the current engagement is: Assessing Electoral Promises Fostering Government- Citizens Engagement for National Unity. According to the organisers, the event is a direct follow-up to pre-election engagements with the leading presidential candidates, where they unveiled their manifestos and made public commitments to advancing development in the North. A participant, Ibrahim Musa, said the citizen engagement programme will also allow citizens and community leaders to voice their concerns and assess the presidents two-year performance. My expectations from the event are what the government will say about the security challenges bedevilling the North-west region. You know, we in Kaduna, our major issue is security. Our people in the rural communities who are largely farmers are not secure, they cannot go to farm, Mr Musa said. I came to listen, but if given the opportunity to speak, I will, said another participant, John Bala. The Chairperson of the Ahmadu Bello Foundation and former Governor of Niger State, Babangida Aliyu, said the event is a public scrutiny of the two-year performances of the Tinubu administration, urging the participants to engage the officials constructively. Mr Aliyu said the foundation is not partisan but a platform advocating innovation, good leadership, and holding leaders accountable for their promises during elections. He took a jab at a former governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, whom he didnt mention by name at the event. Mr Kwankwaso had accused President Tinubu of favouring the South in his development projects. In a veiled reaction to the accusation, Mr Aliyu, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said politicians who speak about lopsided resource allocation should be mindful of their utterances and learn to allow governance after an election. The event is being attended by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Secretary to the Federal Government, George Akume; Ministers of Defence, Muhammad Badaru and Bello Matawalle; and the Minister of Information, Muhammed Idris. Also on the ground are the Minister of State, FCT, Mariya Bunkure; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu; Minister of State, Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Attah; Minister of Livestock Development, Idris Maiha; and the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo. Also attending are the Chairperson of the Nigerian Governors Forum and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulfata Ahmed; Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya; former governor of Kano, Ibrahim Shekarau; former governor of Kaduna, Ramalan Yero; and the host governor, Uba Sani. Others are the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Arewa Consultative Forum, Bashir Dalhatu, and the representative of Vice President Kashim Shettima, Aliyi Modibo. The Shiroro cell of a Boko Haram faction in Niger State, near Nigerias capital Abuja, is the groups furthest and most successful expansion outside the Lake Chad Basin. Until now, information about the cell of the Jamaatu Ahlis Sunna Liddaawati wal-Jihad (JAS) group sketched its existence, but left many questions unanswered. New evidence from ongoing Institute for Security Studies (ISS) research includes interviews with defectors, local victims and women who escaped JAS after being married to some of its fighters. The information sheds light on the Shiroro cells operations and alliances, and what they mean for counter-terrorism in Nigeria. Audiovisual material and corroborating reports show JAS embedded deeply in Niger States forested communities, blending jihadism with local Fulani banditry the main source of insecurity in the area. By tolerating the bandits non-adherence to its strict religious code, JAS benefits from their weapons, fighters and knowledge of the local terrain, enabling the group to gain a strategic foothold in Central Nigeria. The cell is led by Abubakar Saidu, alias Sadiku. A native Babur from Biu in Borno State, Sadiku was sent to Niger State in 2014 by late JAS leader Abubakar Shekau. He was part of a seven-man team directed to meet the remaining members of the ultra-Salafist Darul Islam group. After being dislodged from its headquarters in Mokwa by a 2009 police raid, members fled north into Nigerias largely ungoverned forests. Although Darul Islam had earlier rejected Boko Harams overture for alignment, Sadiku found fertile ground among its dispersed followers and started the Niger State cell along with his comrades from Borno. He began shuttling between Borno and Niger states, gradually embedding himself in the Alawa Forest Reserve area, and coordinating with the local Fulani. This culminated in escalating attacks by the group in 2021. From forest camps like Kugu and Dogon Fili, the group attacks security forces and civilians in villages and towns, and on roads in Shiroro, Munya and Rafi local government areas. It has killed hundreds, displaced thousands and planted many improvised explosive devices (IEDs). A PREMIUM TIMES investigation and ISS interviews reveal the abduction of boys who are forced into an indoctrination programme at Islamic schools, and forced labour. Women and girls are kidnapped and forced into marriages with fighters. Strongholds of JAS Shiroro cell in Niger State, Nigeria Unlike the doctrinal and tighter command discipline of rival Boko Haram faction Islamic State West Africa Provinces (ISWAP), JAS thrives on ideological fluidity and predation. Militants raid villages, carrying out kidnapping and extortion, which they justify as fayhoo (spoils taken from civilian unbelievers). This flexibility appears key to its entrenchment in Niger State. The fusion of jihadists and non-ideological armed criminals is not new. In Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, jihadists have worked with local criminals for a stake in illegal gold mines. But the Shiroro cells local integration stands out, especially its tolerance of the bandits use of alcohol, drugs and prostitution, which contravene the cells strict religious doctrine. A woman formerly married to a fighter recalled Boko Haram clerics from north-east Nigeria expressing disapproval, but Sadiku argued that the Fulani would change with time. It is, however, doubtful whether the bandits would ever cooperate with jihadists out of religious conviction. The Shiroro cell is not structured under the traditional Boko Haram command system, but under kachallas (warlords or strongmen), which shows an embracing of bandit terminology. Notorious bandit leader Dogo Gide served under Sadiku as kachalla before their fallout though ISS interviews suggest that Bakura Doro, the Lake Chad-based overall commander of JAS, may be mediating a reconciliation. According to defectors and women who lived in the camps, Doro supplies weapons from his base on Lake Chads Barwa Island. One video, seen by ISS, shows weapons wrapped in grass and fish, hidden on boats bound for Shiroro. This arms flow is complemented by locally sourced weapons, seized from security forces or trafficked through Sahelian smuggling networks, using the groups bandit alliances. Money also flows from Shiroro to Doro, underscoring how territorial expansion is a tactic to also finance terrorism. The Shiroro cell is dispersed across forest communities, including Kugu, Maganda and Dogon Fili, to avoid detection by Nigerias largely aerial military campaign. The militarys ground assets were withdrawn after facing repeated deadly attacks. Further complicating the situation is the Lakurawa, a Sahelian-rooted Fulani armed group designated a terrorist organisation by Nigeria in 2025. While espousing jihadism, Lakurawa is predatory and operates in northwestern Sokoto and Kebbi states along the Niger Republic border. According to a defector and an expert on the conflict, Lakurawas emissaries have visited Sadiku in Shiroro annually since 2023, providing the first credible evidence of Lakurawa-JAS interactions and possible alignment. Sadiku sent fighters to reinforce Lakurawa, which in turn approached another notorious Fulani bandit leader, Bello Turji, ostensibly to replicate the JAS-style alliance in the countrys North-west. The convergence of armed groups raises the threat of a wider coordination of violence. The 2022 Kuje prison attack in Abuja involved a rare ISWAP-JAS-Ansaru collaboration. A defector who participated in the 2022 Kaduna train attack and kidnapping told ISS the assault was executed by Sadikus fighters using IEDs from Borno, and partnering with bandits. Meanwhile, ISWAP has long sought to expand beyond Lake Chad, even targeting southern states like Oyo to access coastal West Africa. ISS research shows it sent five commanders with 25 fighters each to Central Nigeria in April, maintaining a presence in Kogis Okene axis. Yet its success has been limited compared to JAS Shiroro stronghold. Geography amplifies the Shiroro threat. Niger State connects north and south Nigeria and borders Benin through porous forest corridors linking to the Sahel. Arrests in July of Boko Haram-linked women heading to the Borgu axis suggest the cell is eyeing broader expansion. Yet, Nigerias strategy to prevent and counter violent extremism remains largely Lake Chad-focused. The Shiroro case shows the need for a recalibrated threat map. Responses must include forest surveillance, road security and partnerships with local vigilantes under accountability frameworks. Finance routes must be disrupted, and gender-responsive reintegration programmes must be run for defectors. Taiwo Adebayo, Researcher, Lake Chad Basin, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) (This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish.) , The Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED), Sunday Oduntan, has assured residents of Lagos that electricity distribution companies will keep to their supply schedule during the maintenance-inspired power disruption in the state. The assurance implies that power will be restored by 5 p.m. daily during the 25-day maintenance of the OmotoshoIkeja West 330kV transmission line. The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) had announced the scheduled maintenance, which began on Monday, would continue until Thursday, 21 August. According to the TCN, the exercise is expected to cause intermittent power outages between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily in Lagos. Mr Oduntan, speaking on Channels Televisions Sunrise Daily on Tuesday, appealed for public trust in the system. He emphasised that the restoration schedule would be strictly adhered to by electricity distribution companies (DisCos). We now need to start believing in our institutions, said Mr Oduntan. Im not from TCN; I speak for the DisCos. But I can tell you this maintenance has been planned over a long period. They know what they are doing, and they will keep to the schedule. He explained that while court cases could be unpredictable, engineering projects like this typically follow a well-defined timeline. Twenty-five days is not 24 hours, he said. If it were a 24-hour job, they could have rushed it in two weeks. But that would not be good for the system or the economy. Despite the assurances, some residents remain sceptical about the ability of the DisCos to maintain consistent restoration of power by 5 p.m. daily. Background The Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) and Ikeja Electric have issued public notices informing customers about the planned upgrade and the resulting power disruptions. In a statement posted on their official X handle, Ikeja Electric confirmed that the outage would occur daily between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. from 28 July to 21 August. Please be informed that the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) will carry out scheduled maintenance on the OmotoshoIkeja West 330kV transmission line During this period, customers may experience intermittent power supply and load shedding across our network due to the planned TCN outage, the company stated. The maintenance work is part of efforts to improve grid stability and enhance electricity delivery across Lagos. The Police in Akwa Ibom State said they have secured 23 convictions for various offenders between January and July 2025. The convictions were secured under the leadership of Baba Azare, who assumed duties as the 34th commissioner of police in the oil-rich state in late 2024. The convictions, ranging from a minimum of two weeks to three years imprisonment, were for offences such as stealing, assault, burglary, felony, and escape from lawful custody, the police spokesperson in Akwa Ibom, Timfon John, said in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES on Tuesday. Ms John, a deputy superintendent of police, said the outcomes reflect the commands intensified efforts in crime prevention, professional investigation, and effective prosecution. She said Mr Azare, since assuming office, has introduced enhanced community policing, rapid response mechanisms, and officers retraining for effective service delivery. The police have recorded several breakthroughs in combating crimes in Akwa Ibom, which Ms John said has resulted in a drop in the crime rate. In a statement sent to this newspaper on Monday, the police spokesperson said operatives in the state arrested a serial ATM thief and fraudster. The suspect, Chibuzor Amaechi, according to the police, specialises in swapping unsuspected bank customers ATM cards and illicitly withdrawing their funds. Mr Amaechi, who hails from Ubima in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers state, was arrested on Saturday. The police said seven different ATM cards were recovered from him. Three days ago, this newspaper reported how the police foiled an armed robbery attack in the state, killing one suspect. The incident came after police operatives arrested electrical transformer vandals, with a human skull recovered from one of them. Former Governor of Nasarawa State and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tanko Al-Makura, has declared his full support for the newly appointed national chairman of the party, Nentawe Yilwatda. Mr Al-Makura made this known in an open letter on Tuesday in Abuja, describing the emergence of the new APC Chairman as a reflection of the partys collective resolve to embrace unity, renewal, and stability. The former governor was reportedly one of the contenders for the position before Mr Yilwatda, from Plateau State was picked last week. He had also shown interest in the position in 2022 before the emergence of Abdullahi Adamu, also a former governor of Nasarawa State. Mr Al-Makura commended the APC National Executive Committee (NEC) and President Bola Tinubu for ratifying the new leadership, describing the decision as a demonstration of political maturity and the partys capacity for internal self-correction. This is not merely a leadership transition, he stated. It is a reaffirmation of the foundational principles that birthed the APC,.discipline, equity, inclusivity, and prioritising national interest above personal ambition, he said. Mr Al-Makura, who played a key role in the 2013 merger of legacy parties that formed the APC, emphasised the need for the party to seize the moment to rebuild internal cohesion and restore public trust. He cautioned against viewing the change in leadership as a sign of instability, stressing instead that it should be seen as a healthy process of democratic consolidation. I am in total and unflinching support of the presidents and the NECs decision regarding your appointment. The party has spoken, and we must all move forward together, he said. The former governor reiterated that peace, unity, and party cohesion must take precedence over individual ambitions. My commitment to the party remains unwavering. I will continue to offer my guidance, experience, and leadership wherever required, not for personal gain, but for the progress of the party and the country, he added. Al-Makura, a former senator, urged party stakeholders to rally behind the new leadership, calling for a renewed focus on dialogue, consensus-building, and maturity. The APC is not just a political platform; it is a symbol of national endurance, of what is possible when Nigerians come together across divides to build a shared future, he said. He further encouraged the new leadership to provide not only administrative guidance but also moral clarity in addressing the complex socio-political issues currently confronting the nation. He called for an inclusive leadership style rooted in reconciliation and the deliberate healing of divisions within the party. You assume office at a time of great opportunity, and even greater responsibility. Nigerians are demanding sincerity, empathy, and results. We must recommit ourselves to politics of listening, bridge-building, and strategic patience. I am fully in support of any leadership approach that values experience, welcomes innovation, and promotes unity, he said. Mr Al-Makura pledged to serve as a bridge between generations and regions within the party, promising to work with the new leadership to uphold the APCs founding mission and mentor emerging leaders. I was part of the historic compromises that created this party. I remain available today not as a contender, but as a resource, a bridge, and a committed progressive, he declared. He urged the new leadership to ensure all segments of the party were carried along, stressing that party unity was essential to national stability. He also warned that internal party behaviour reflected the partys broader capacity to govern. The youth must feel included. The elders must feel valued. And those who feel alienated must be reassured that the APC is still their home. At a time when Nigeria faces economic pressure, social tension, and regional uncertainty, the APC must become a symbol of moderation and cohesion. We may have different religions, different languages, different coloured skin, but we all belong to one human race. As leaders, we are custodians of the peoples trust. We must govern not just with authority, but with moral responsibility, the former governor said. Mr Al-Makura prayed for the success of the new APC chairman, expressing hope that his leadership will foster unity, reconciliation, and sustained electoral success. (NAN) Florida has historically been an oasis for retirees. Nearly a third of the states elder care workforce is concentrated in the south end of the peninsula, between Miami and Palm Beach. For a long time, newly arrived immigrants were a reliable source of candidates for these jobs in an industry that has historically struggled to maintain the necessary staffing levels, both due to the inherent demands of the job and the low paybarely above Floridas minimum wage. Now, the Trump administrations immigration policies, which include an agenda to detain 3,000 people per day, have begun to take their toll on this sector. While the impact has been felt nationally, in South Florida, the place of residence for the majority of the hundreds of thousands of immigrants suddenly left without legal status after the administration canceled their temporary protections or humanitarian permits including Haitians, Cubans, Venezuelans, and Nicaraguans the blow has been particularly brutal, said experts, business owners, and service provider associations. In Miami, they are known as checheirecreating the way the acronym for Home Health Aide, HHA, sounds to a Spanish speaker. Many of the Latin American immigrants who have arrived in the U.S. recent years, willing to work hard, have found that by completing a 75-hour course, they could obtain a certificate to care for the elderly or disabled, for around $14 an hour. Some have become certified nursing assistants (CNAs), which lets them work in senior residences or nursing homes, where they earn just over $15 an hour but receive some additional benefits such as health insurance or bonuses. Esmeralda Vigay, from the Miami franchise of Home Instead, a renowned national network specializing in home care for seniors, said that the staff, made up of people of all nationalities, has recently been reduced, and they are having difficulty replacing those who leave. Many patients who had a caregiver for a long time, to whom they had grown accustomed and with whom they had formed an affectionate bond, have suddenly found themselves looking for another one, she said. Leiza Rodriguez, who runs a small family-run day care business for seniors in Homestead, south of Miami, said that one of her four employees, a Cuban man who had arrived less than two years earlier through the humanitarian parole program known as CHNV, suddenly had his work permit taken away. The man drove the bus that picks up about 25 clients from their homes each day to take them to the clinic, a key function of the business. Rodriguez had to move quickly to replace him, but the position requires background checks, drug tests, and other paperwork that takes time. We lost money, she said. Many people I know, including other businesses, have been affected, said Rodriguez, who has run the care center since 2011. All of her employees have always had work permits and their papers in order, including those who had asylum or parole, she added. The Trump administration revoked the legal status of half a million people who arrived in the U.S. through the CHNV program and hundreds of thousands more who entered using the CBP One program in April. It also canceled Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for half a million Haitians, some 600,000 Venezuelans, and tens of thousands of Hondurans and Nicaraguans. In Florida, home to one of the largest elderly populations in the country, Governor Ron DeSantis has sought to position himself at the forefront of the national crackdown on immigrants, pushing through agreements with local authorities to arrest people based on their immigration status, building new detention centers like the infamous Alligator Alcatraz, and pushing through restrictive policies that have been challenged in court. The new Alligator Alcatraz migrant detention center in the Florida Everglades. Rebecca Blackwell (AP) Despite the administrations claim of targeting criminals, we know that all immigrants are under threat, with whole communities being terrorized, said Leslie Frane, vice president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), the nations largest health care workers union, with nearly 2 million members. As the nations largest health care union, we can see the chilling impact across our care system especially. Three in ten home care workers are immigrants and 21 percent of the nursing assistant workforce are immigrants, she added. They make up an essential workforce thats been largely invisible, but enables millions of Americans to work, thrive and live with dignity, including children, seniors, and people with disabilities. Lisa Sanders of LeadingAge, an influential organization representing nonprofits serving older adults, said one member in Florida had to lay off 10 people after the CHNV ended and anticipates laying off more when TPS for Haitians expires in February 2026. Another member, Rachel Blumberg of Toby & Leon Cooperman Sinai Residences in Boca Raton, north of Miami, predicted that with the TPS ending, they risked losing eight percent of their 430 employees. These are people who are working legally, working hard, paying taxes, contributing to their communities, Sanders said, adding that members across the country are facing this situation, including some who dont want to speak out because they dont want to attract attention and are concerned about the well-being of their staff. A risk for older adults In an April 30 letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, LeadingAge said the elimination of protections like TPS for Haiti and Venezuela, as well as the CHNV program, put older adults at risk by destabilizing the workforce that cares for them. Your agencys decisions to terminate the temporary parole for all CHNV individuals and roll back TPS designations for Haiti and Venezuela have created immediate uncertainty and concern for employers and workers alike, wrote Katie Smith Sloan, president and CEO of LeadingAge. Many of our members will lose deeply valued, experienced staff at a time when replacement workers are exceedingly difficult to find. This is not a future concern this is an April 2025 concern," she added, urging DHS to reconsider its recent decisions and commit to exploring more permanent immigration pathways for these essential workers. Foreign-born workers represent 31% of the home care workforce, 21% of residential care aides, 21% of nursing assistants, and 30% of cleaning and maintenance staff in nursing homes, said a LeadingAge spokesperson. For a sector such as ours, losing these valued caregivers is a profound blow. Why would the U.S. government force our members to fire them? It makes no sense, she added. Sanders explained that the sector has long faced challenges related to reimbursement rates from Medicaid, the government health insurance program for low-income people. The cost of services is directly related to the reimbursement received by providers, many of whom operate as nonprofits. Salaries are directly related to costs and reimbursements, and some members turn to philanthropy to cover their needs, she explained. On the other hand, there is an unquestionable relationship between staffing and quality of care. A scientific study by the Pension Research Council at the Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania) linked staffing shortages to increased use of sedatives in nursing home patients with dementia or difficult behavior. The study found that increasing staffing levels led to a decrease in the use of antipsychotic medications. According to the researchers, many for-profit nursing homes use sedatives as a form of control when they are understaffed because patients in chemical restraints require less work, allowing them to operate with fewer workers. If immigration policies restrict access to a key segment of the long-term care workforce, staffing could worsenamplifying the risks we identify, said Professor Jong Myeong Lim of the University of Miami, one of the studys authors. Studying how broader labor and immigration policies intersect with care quality and abuse risks in nursing homes is both timely and critical. Other LeadingAge members have noted that their foreign employees represent between 40% and 75% of their staff, many of whom have been working legally in the country for years and hold essential roles, and that losing them would have a critical impact on the care of thousands of older adults. These organizations described a growing emotional burden among staff, who are living with uncertainty and fear, and affirmed that these workers are not just numbers, but colleagues, friends, and valued members of the community. Some have taken steps such as hiring immigration attorneys to navigate these issues and pursue other legal avenues to remain in the country, the LeadingAge spokesperson said, without providing details. Each lost employee must be replaced. Until that can happen, providers have to make difficult decisions. Will the number of available beds in a nursing home have to be reduced, because they do not have sufficient staff? This issue has both immediate impact and long term impact: with fewer foreign-born workers allowed to work here, how will the pipeline be filled? he added. The American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), which represents long-term care providers, said that immigrants represent a significant portion of the long-term care workforce and that they have supported streamlining legal pathways for international caregivers to enter the system to strengthen this workforce and prepare for the growing demand for long-term care. SIEUs Frane added, When you consider that 10,000 Americans turn 65 every day, its clear that our care economy is truly unsustainable without an immigrant workforce. As more immigrant workers lose their protection, families will be deprived of the care they rely on and the cost of care will skyrocket for all of us. Katsina State, a traditional ruler from the state, Ibrahim Idah, has said. Bandits and terrorists attacks have gone down substantially in the two years of President Bola Tinubu at least in, a traditional ruler from the state, Ibrahim Idah, has said. Mr Idah, a former senator who holds the title of Wazirin Katsina, stated this at the ongoing forum for engagement between officials of the Nigerian government and stakeholders from the Nigerian northern states. Citing a campaign promise by Mr Tinubu to curb arms proliferations, Mr Idah said Mr Tinubu had evidently fulfilled this promise on account of reduction of attacks compared with the past. Mr Idah, however, advocated for arming vigilantes outfits established by state governments with automatic weapons to make them more effective. READ ALSO: NDLEA operative shot dead on duty He also called on the government to strengthen non-kinetic measures of addressing insecurity. For his part, the Chairman of the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Buba Marwa, however called for caution on arming vigilantes, citing a recent case of a vigilantes commander in Borno State suspected of peddling drugs who honoured the invitation of the anti-drug agency with over 50 armed men. A forum organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SAMBF) for leaders from the 19 northern states to engage with federal officials, has begun in Kaduna. The forum is scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday in Kaduna and will assess how well President Tinubus administration has delivered on his electoral promises to the northern region. By 10 a.m., high-ranking government officials had started arriving at the venue, preparing to present sectoral reports and progress updates on the two-year-old administrations projects and programmes. Notable arrivals include the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu; the Chairperson of the National Hajj Commission, Abdullahi Usman; and the Chairperson of the NDLEA, Buba Marwa (rtd.). PREMIUM TIMES also observed the arrival of former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu and other prominent political figures. State governors and ministers from the region are expected to participate in the deliberations. The conference promises robust dialogue on development efforts, policy impact, and the regions expectations moving forward under the current administration. Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, and other top presidential aides have also arrived at Arewa House. Other key figures noticed at the event include Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Communications; Lanre Issa-Onilu, the Director General of the National Orientation Agency; and Tope Ajayi, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity. The forum is themed Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering GovernmentCitizen Engagement for National Unity. The event According to the organisers, the event is a direct follow-up to pre-election engagements held in 2022, during which leading presidential candidates, including then-candidate Tinubu, unveiled their manifestos and made public commitments to advancing development in the North. With President Tinubu now two years into his administration, this follow-up session aims to evaluate progress on those promises, deepen government-citizen engagement, and promote a clearer understanding of the administrations policies and programmes, said Abubakar Umar, the Director-General of the SAMBF. The foundation explained that the forum is designed to enable constructive dialogue between federal officials and citizens, address public concerns, dispel misinformation, and strengthen democratic accountability. It is meant to bridge the gap between policy implementation and public perception, the foundation said. We believe that open and honest discourse is critical to ensuring that governance remains responsive, inclusive, and accountable to the people. The Zamfara State Government has vowed to intensify efforts to eliminate criminal networks operating in the state following the murder of 35 kidnapped villagers by terrorists. The vow followed reports of the brutal killing of the villagers kidnapped from Banga in the Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area, allegedly over the failure of their families to pay a N35 million ransom demanded by the terrorists. According to reports, the victims were among 53 villagers abducted from Banga. Sani Suleiman, a resident of the village, said the bandits had demanded N1 million for each captive and released only the 18 for whom the ransom was paid. He further claimed that the remaining 35 captives were slaughtered one by one in the presence of those who were eventually freed. The report also alleged that Banga village was under the control of bandits, with an appeal for security personnel deployment to protect residents. Ahmed Danmanga, Governor Dauda Lawals Special Adviser on Security Matters, confirmed the incident but said he did not know the number of those murdered. He added that mobile police officers have been deployed to Banga, saying the state government is handicapped due to an inadequate number of security personnel. In response to the tragedy, Governor Dauda Lawal, through the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Mahmud Dantawasa, extended deepest condolences to the families and communities affected. The Governor described the attack as cowardly, desperate, and a sign that the terrorists are losing ground. Governor Lawal vowed to ensure that every criminal involved in these atrocities is captured or neutralised. Zamfara will no longer be your (terrorists) hiding place and the full weight of law and force will crush every network of violence across our state, he said. The state government highlighted the accomplishments of security measures launched under Governor Lawal, including the elimination of top commanders and their fighters in sustained clearance operations. It also cited the provision of hundreds of operational vehicles to security agencies, including the Community Protection Guards (CPG), and intensified security patrols with a new strategy focused on offensive operations to dismantle bandit hideouts permanently. The government urged citizens not to give in to fear, describing the attacks as acts of desperation by criminals who know their end is near. Governor Lawal assured citizens that the state will not surrender an inch of Zamfara to criminals. They will either repent or be eliminated. This is our pledge, and we will keep it. The Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, said the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has resumed crude oil drilling at a field in the boundary of Bauchi and Gombe states. Mr Yahaya said this at the ongoing two-day Interactive Session on Government-Citizens Engagement at the Arewa House, Kaduna. The forum, organised by the Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, was to assess President Bola Tinubus administrations performance in the northern region in the first half of the administrations term. Mr Yahaya recalled how Mr Tinubu almost missed the flag-off ceremony of the oil drilling project at Kolmani in 2022 during the administration of former late President Muhammadu Buhari until he invited him to the event. President Bola Tinubu, who was then the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was not invited to the ceremony by the NNPCL management or the federal government. I said no, we have a candidate who has to know something about this project, and I proposed to the then party leadership to invite him to the event under the APC forum, Mr Yahaya recalled. I believe that President Buhari would go, and someone would come in and continue the project. I personally invited President Tinubu to the event, and he said that he would continue the project where the Buhari administration stopped. He fulfilled that promise because, as of today, the oil companies have resumed work at the field after so many lengthy negotiations with the National Security Adviser. By next week, Inshallah, the result will begin to show, he said. The NNPCL announced in October 2019 the discovery of hydrocarbon deposits in the Kolmani River II Well on the Upper Benue Trough, Gongola Basin, in the North-eastern part of the country. The Nigerian government began drilling at Kolmani in 2022, the first in the region after several crude oil explorations in the Upper Benue Trough. The discovery of oil and gas in commercial quantities in the Gongola Basin, according to the NNPCL, will attract foreign investment, generate employment for people to earn income and increase government revenues. The government said over a billion barrels of oil and 500 billion cubic feet of gas were found within the Kolmani area of Gombe and Bauchi, and the discovery had already attracted a $3 billion investment. Nigerian poet and spoken word artist Maryam Hassan has been appointed the United Nations Global Advocate for Peace. Ms Hassan, a peace advocate, uses the power of poetry and performance to champion gender equality, youth empowerment and inclusive peacebuilding. Her poetry, performed on global stages from Rome to Kampala and at the UN Headquarters in New York, speaks to the resilience of women and youth on the frontlines of conflict and the power of creative expression to inspire change. Ms Hassans advocacy extends beyond performance as she works with youth networks, grassroots organisations, and international forums to promote inclusive peace processes, challenge the status quo and amplify marginalised voices, particularly with populations at risk. In her new role as the first Global Advocate for the Peace and Security Pillar, the Borno State indigene will advance the UNs peace efforts through storytelling, digital engagement, and public speaking. Maryam will continue to use her voice and influence to raise awareness of the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) and Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agendas, promoting the leadership of women and young people in building sustainable peace, the UN said in a statement. Maryams role as Global Advocate is jointly administered by the Department of Peace Operations (DPO) and the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA), which together form the UN Peace and Security Pillar. Also known as Alhanislam on social media, Ms Hassan has showcased her work on prestigious platforms including the UN SDG Awards, TED Talks and the World Bank Youth Summit. Previously, she collaborated with the UN on initiatives such as the Peace Begins With Me poetry video for the International Day of Peace and her impactful spoken word performance at last years Summit of the Future. Her dedication has also earned her accolades such as the Sustainable Africa Award at COP28 and finalist recognition for the 2024 UN SDG Creativity Award. The UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, highlighted the significance of her appointment, stating that the dedication of the Global Advocates time and energy to this effort will greatly increase awareness of the peace and security priorities of the United Nations, particularly the vital role of women and youth in advancing inclusive and sustainable peace. The Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, also welcomed the appointment, noting that art has the power to move hearts, inspire action, and bring communities together. Through her compelling words and performances, Ms. Bukar has shown how creativity can be a force for peacebuilding, dialogue and inclusion. Her voice will be an important partner in amplifying the UNs efforts to advance political solutions, empower young people and women, and sustain peace, Ms DiCarlo said. A Poets Peace Peace is not a silence you force into peoples mouths, Ms Hassan wrote in her latest poem. Peace is not the absence of war; it is the presence of understanding, she continued. Peace is a verb, written to mark the occasion. I can remember the first war I experienced was when I was four years old, she said, describing a time when armed men broke into her home. They were going house to house, and if you were a Muslim, they would bring you out and slaughter you. No child should remember such a thing at age four. They should remember smiles, not that they were almost killed because they were Muslim or Christian. Ms Hassans poem not only captures her lived experience, but it also tells the story of struggle and resilience among people coping with crisis and conflict. It urges people to give peace a chance. I wanted to encapsulate the human spirit. People dont just wake up one day and decide to start bombing each other. It comes from history, from the lack of choice, from resentment. Its the war in the heart. For Ms Hassan, investing in peace means addressing the root causes of violence and conflict. She envisions a peaceful world where world leaders discuss how citizens can benefit and grow in their own countries and feel grounded. People dont have to look over their shoulders when they walk in the streets; people from different cultures speak up for one another; where guns are silenced; where our vulnerabilities are not weaponized; where migration is not seen through a lens of burden but opportunity; where children can actually freely roam the streets and are not being starved; and where we truly learn to trust each other and not live in fear. The appointment of the 28-year-old comes as the UN turns 80 amidst a world grappling with record levels of human suffering. Last year alone, conflicts led to nearly 50,000 deaths and more than 120 million people were forcibly displaced, according to the UN. Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani says no governor may challenge President Bola Tinubus bid for re-election in 2027 because of his support for government at the sub-national levels. He said d no president in Nigerias history has given as much support to state governors and local government administrations as President Tinubu is doing. Mr Sani made this known on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the two-day conference organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) to strengthen engagement between government and citizens. The event is being held at the Arewa House in Kaduna. According to Mr Sani, No president in Nigeria has given governors and other sub-national leaders the kind of support that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is giving today. Therefore, as a politician who interacts closely with other governors across the country, I can say that it would be difficult for any governor in Nigeria to rise and challenge Tinubus leadership or work against his re-election ambition in 2027. He also commended the new political approach of President Tinubus administration, which he said involves engaging stakeholders outside of government in discussions about the development of the North and the country as a whole. This is the first time in Nigerias history that the federal government is inviting non-government stakeholders to discuss national and regional issues. This approach represents a meaningful shift in how the countrys challenges are being addressed, he said. Also governor Yahaya Inuwa of Gombe, who is also the Chairman of the Northern Nigerian Governors Forum, outlined the performances and challenges of the President Bola Tinubu administration over the past two years. The governor said evidence of progress is visible across the northern region and commended President Tinubus Renewed Hope Agenda. The governor said many projects started by the previous administration are now racing towards completion. The event According to the organisers, the event is a direct follow-up to pre-election engagements held in 2022, during which leading presidential candidates, including then-candidate Tinubu, unveiled their manifestos and made public commitments to advancing development in the North. With President Tinubu now two years into his administration, this follow-up session aims to evaluate progress on those promises, deepen government-citizen engagement, and promote a clearer understanding of the administrations policies and programmes, said Abubakar Umar, the Director-General of the SAMBF. The foundation explained that the forum is designed to enable constructive dialogue between federal officials and citizens, address public concerns, dispel misinformation, and strengthen democratic accountability. It is meant to bridge the gap between policy implementation and public perception, the foundation said. We believe that open and honest discourse is critical to ensuring that governance remains responsive, inclusive, and accountable to the people. At least two people have been reported killed by Islamist insurgents in Mandaragirau, in the Biu Local Government Area of Borno State. The insurgents also brutalised residents and burned over 60 houses. Residents and community leaders told PREMIUM TIMES that the insurgents had attacked the community six times since 14 July, the latest incident forcing residents to flee into a temporary camp in Biu town. Farmers killed, community displaced Mandaragirau has witnessed several attacks in the recent past. However, the residents described the latest as the most devastating as the insurgents brutalised residents and burnt down houses. They planted five explosives, which detonated and killed two farmers, Aliyu Adamu, a traditional ruler (Lawan of Mandaragirau), told PREMIUM TIMES. We found two dead bodies after the bomb explosion. We were lucky soldiers safely deactivated the remaining bombs, Mr Adams said. He said the victims were returning from their farms when they stepped on the explosives. The insurgents returned to the community last Saturday and gave residents three days to leave. They shot sporadically. We just heard the sound of machines approaching and Hilux vans. Most of us, except women and children, have left the community. They molested many women while warning everyone to leave or be killed, Mr Adamu said from Biu. Aliu Haidar, a local chieftain of the APC in Biu, described how the community was displaced. This threat has thrown the already traumatised villagers into panic, forcing families, mostly women, children, and the elderly, to flee by foot, many barefooted, to Biu in search of refuge, food, and safety. According to sources, some community members were taking shelter at Bulamel Primary School, Biu. The Chairperson of Biu Local Government, Sule Ali, the senator for the district, Ali Ndume, and some philanthropists have donated mats, wrappers, and food items to the IDPs in the camp. However, the residents said a lot more needed to be done. People are all over the streets of Biu begging. Many of them escaped the Boko Haram threat with only the clothes they are wearing, Adamu Yusuf, a resident of Biu, said. Other residents took to Facebook to call for help from the state government and lawmakers. It is in this same spirit of leadership and compassion that I respectfully appeal to you, sir, to deploy immediate humanitarian and security responses to Mandiragrau. These should include emergency shelter, food assistance, medical outreach, psychological support, and above all, the reinforcement of security presence to prevent further incursions by terrorists, one Haidar said to Governor Babagana Zulum on the social media platform. At the time of press, the authorities were yet to comment on the attack. When contacted, Reuben Kovangiya, spokesperson of Operation Hadin Kai, said he was on an assignment outside his place of work and there was no internet service at the location, so he could not speak about the attack. However, unofficial accounts said the military has moved into Mandaragirau, and the state government has donated N1 million to the victims, while Mr Ndume also donated 100 bags of rice. Right now, there is no one in Mandaragirau except soldiers, the traditional ruler said. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has said terrorists attacks has reduced across Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu. Mr Ribadu said before the Tinubu administration came on board, the country was bogged down by security challenges, with almost all parts of the countrys six geopolitical zones dealing with one issue or another. He spoke at the two-day Interactive Session on Government-Citizens Engagement ongoing at the Arewa House, Kaduna. The forum, was organised by the Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation to assess President Tinubus performance in the northern region in the first half of his administrations term. He said in in the South-east region, secessionist agitation has been subdued by both kinetic and non kinetic approaches, significantly reducing killings by the separatist group, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Mr Ribadu said in the North-central region, tit-for-tat killings between pastoralists and farming communities have reduced, citing an official figure from the Benue State government. In the North-west, Mr Ribadu said several banditry leaders have been killed and peace is gradually returning in the region. He said synergy between the security agencies has aided the success recorded in the fight against criminalities. Mr Ribadu said 1,192 people were killed and over 3,348 kidnapped in Kaduna State during the previous administration, while more than 5,000 people lost their lives in Benue State in the same period. Mr Ribadu said that the successes recorded in the fight against insecurity is as a result of President Tinubus directive to security agencies on a unified security approach, on the first day he assumed office. He said the various security operations across the North-west had led to the release of 11, 259 hostages as of May. Mr Ribadu commended Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State for initiating the non-kinetic approach in addressing insecurity in the state, saying Kaduna now enjoys relative peace. The House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee on the Rehabilitation and Operationalisation of the Baro Inland Port has summoned the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji, over irregularities surrounding the multi-billion-naira port project. Committee Chairperson Saidu Abdullahi (APC, Niger) issued the summons during a hearing in Abuja on Tuesday. He also directed NIWA to submit all documents related to the planning, construction, handover, and current status of the facility, which was initiated to decongest Nigerias seaports and enhance inland water transportation. The committee gave NIWA and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy seven days to provide comprehensive documentation, including contract agreements, project scope, financial breakdowns, inspection reports, photographs, and any correspondence suggesting the port was ever officially declared operational. We need everything, the full contract files, evaluation reports, evidence of what was done and what was not done. We are asking for all relevant documents as far as the Baro Port is concerned. We are not here to fight anybody. This committee is very serious with our job. The managing director and the minister are summoned to appear. The matter has been referred to this committee and we are going to do our work thoroughly. We want to know how much was paid to the contractor. We want the financial breakdown. Lets stop playing games. Somebody must take responsibility for what is clearly a scandal, Mr Abdullahi said. He stressed that the legislature would not allow such a massive public investment to be wasted. Several lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction over inconsistencies in claims regarding the ports completion and functionality. They questioned why a port reportedly completed and handed over remains idle, with no evidence of cargo movement or road accessibility. The committee resolved to rely not on verbal assurances but on verifiable evidence of the ports readiness for operations. NIWAs boss responds Responding on behalf of NIWAs managing director, the agencys General Manager, Ports and Environmental Services, Agbahe Fidelis, blamed the ports non-operation on infrastructural deficiencies. He said that despite being commissioned in 2019 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, the port remains inactive due to silted waterways, poor road access, vandalised railway connections, and general insecurity in the area. Committee resolution As part of its investigation, the committee resolved to undertake a follow-up visit to the Baro Inland Port for an on-site assessment and independent verification. It also criticised the absence of key agencies at the hearing, including the Federal Ministry of Works and the Nigeria Railway Corporation, and directed that they must appear at the committees next session. The Baro Inland Port project The Baro Inland Port, located in Baro, Niger State, was conceived as part of the federal governments effort to revitalise inland water transportation and ease congestion at seaports. The project, managed by the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), was designed to serve as a cargo transit hub linked by road, rail, and waterways, enabling movement of goods between northern and southern Nigeria. The port was commissioned in January 2019 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, following reports of substantial investment and near-completion. However, it has remained non-operational since then, reportedly due to infrastructural deficiencies, including inaccessible roads, silted waterways, and vandalised rail infrastructure. Amid evolving security threats that have rendered Nigerias defense landscape increasingly complex, the country is taking decisive steps to recalibrate its security architecture through greater inter-agency collaboration and intelligence-led operations. From terrorism and banditry to cybercrime and internal sabotage, Nigerias security threats have become more asymmetric, unpredictable, and often borderless. Experts and military authorities now agree: brute force alone is no longer sufficient. The new battlefield demands synergy, innovation, and intelligence as key tools of national defense. A significant shift in that direction was signaled recently by the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, and the formal commissioning of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) Joint Doctrine and Welfare Centre in Abuja. Speaking at the graduation of the Regimental Intelligence and Security Officers Course 4/2025 at the Nigerian Air Force School of Air Intelligence in Makurdi, Air Marshal Abubakar charged officers to apply their training to boost threat detection, preempt attacks, and enable precise operations. He emphasised that modern warfare cannot be won solely through firepower and described intelligence as the currency of victory, especially in the ongoing battle against terrorism and insurgency. His comments came against the backdrop of intensifying threats from non-state actors bandits, insurgents, and transnational criminal networks who exploit Nigerias expansive geography and institutional gaps in security coordination. The situation is further complicated by internal saboteurs and sleeper cells hidden within communities and public institutions. To counter these threats, the Air Force chief emphasised the need for an integrated approach across Nigerias military and paramilitary forces. He called for greater synergy and collaboration to ensure intelligence is not only gathered, but shared, analysed, and acted upon swiftly. This call for unity received further institutional backing with the commissioning of the AFN Joint Doctrine and Welfare Centre by National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu. The NSA described the Centre as a strategic facility aimed at fostering operational harmony, doctrine alignment, and joint training across the armed services. Ribadu said the Centre is not just a structure but a commitment to ending siloed operations and institutional rivalries that have hampered effective national security responses. The new facility is tasked with closing long-standing gaps in inter-agency coordination by harmonising doctrines, standardising training, and encouraging seamless communication. It marks a shift from isolated responses toward a unified, intelligence-driven approach. Historically, one of the biggest hurdles in Nigerias security architecture has been fragmented intelligence sharing. Agencies often operate in isolation, with overlapping mandates leading to duplication of efforts and inter-service rivalry. This disjointedness undermines operational efficiency and allows threats to grow unchecked. The Joint Doctrine Centre seeks to end that trend. By institutionalising information sharing, joint research, and synchronised planning, it will enable Nigerias armed forces and security agenciesincluding the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, DSS, Police, NSCDC, and others to respond more effectively and with greater unity of purpose. The advantages of this approach are numerous. Intelligence pooled from multiple agencies can help identify and disrupt threats before they escalate. A decentralised yet integrated intelligence structure will facilitate early warning systems in high-risk areas. Joint operations backed by a shared intelligence database will reduce redundancies, conserve resources, and increase mission success rates. Furthermore, collaboration fosters mutual respect and trust, replacing institutional competition with a spirit of collective action. The welfare component of the Centre is also expected to improve morale and cohesion across the ranks. Importantly, intelligence-led operations reduce the risk of civilian casualties and arbitrary raids, helping to rebuild public trust and improve the legitimacy of security forces. When operations are informed and community-sensitive, civilian cooperation tends to rise an essential element in winning the hearts and minds of the population. To sustain momentum, Nigeria must invest in three critical areas. First, technology integration is essential. The country must adopt geospatial surveillance, drones, artificial intelligence, and advanced data analytics to support real-time threat monitoring and response. Second, cross-training and joint curriculum development should be introduced across defense and security academies to foster understanding of sister agencies strengths and protocols. Third, territorial intelligence cells should be established at zonal and state levels to localize command structures and generate community-specific intelligence. Yet, while policy reforms and new structures are critical, they must be accompanied by a cultural transformation. The entrenched rivalries and command silos must give way to a new ethos of unity and shared mission. Leadership across all security institutions must model this change, reinforcing that Nigerias security cannot be a zero-sum game. As the country confronts an array of complex security challenges, the vision of Air Marshal Abubakar and the strategic initiative of the NSA offer a blueprint for progress. Their combined efforts reinforce a fundamental truth: Nigeria must move beyond fragmented tactics and embrace a collective, intelligence-centered doctrine. In todays world of fast-evolving threats, synergy is not a luxury it is a necessity. Shared intelligence and collaborative operations form the shield that can protect the nation and restore peace. For Nigeria to reclaim its security and stability, it must act togetherthrough coordinated, informed, and technology-powered operations. Mukhtar Yau Madobi is a Research Fellow at the Centre for Crisis Communication. He can be reached via [email protected] At the National Conference on Illicit Financial Flows held in Abuja on 22 July, Mr Zacch Adedeji, executive chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, spoke directly to the issue. He outlined how Nigerias tax system is being undermined by mispriced trade, profit shifting, aggressive avoidance schemes, and financial outflows disguised through legal and accounting loopholes. These practices, he said, are draining the country of revenue meant for core responsibilities, delaying infrastructure, weakening healthcare, stalling education, and undermining public safety. Why does Nigeria, a country blessed with oil, gas, minerals, and millions of hardworking people, still struggle to meet its financial responsibilities? Why are public schools often in poor condition, hospitals lacking supplies, and some infrastructure projects delayed for years? Why does the government continue to borrow even when taxes are being paid, oil revenues are recorded, and businesses are making profits? The answers are not difficult to find. They are in what experts describe as illicit financial flows. These are funds that are meant to support development within Nigeria but are quietly moved elsewhere. This happens through tax avoidance schemes, manipulated trade invoices, the use of anonymous companies, and international agreements that no longer reflect Nigerias current needs. This is not simply an issue of wrongdoing. It is a question of systems, of influence, and of long-standing practices that have allowed wealth to move out, while public services remain behind. At the National Conference on Illicit Financial Flows held in Abuja on 22 July, Mr Zacch Adedeji, executive chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, spoke directly to the issue. He outlined how Nigerias tax system is being undermined by mispriced trade, profit shifting, aggressive avoidance schemes, and financial outflows disguised through legal and accounting loopholes. These practices, he said, are draining the country of revenue meant for core responsibilities, delaying infrastructure, weakening healthcare, stalling education, and undermining public safety. The gathering brought together stakeholders including Mrs Doris Uzoka-Anite, minister of Industry, Trade and Investment; Irene Ovonji-Odida of the United Nations High-Level Panel on Illicit Financial Flows; and representatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Customs Service, the Central Bank of Nigeria, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Tax Boss said it as it is. He connected the loss to the consequences. What leaves Nigeria through these channels is not just money, but a lost opportunity. He reminded the room that no government can meet the needs of its people if it allows its revenue to be quietly extracted and transferred elsewhere. In pointing out the harm, he also placed responsibility not only on external actors but on institutions at home to strengthen the systems that protect national resources. If we recall, Mr Zacch Adedeji has been active on multiple fronts. Not long ago, he inaugurated the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit at FIRS, working closely with ICPC to root out corruption in tax collection and ensure honesty in how revenue is gathered. This shows he is not just talking about change; he is making it happen. The Tax Boss also made it clear that Nigeria must review its tax treaties with other countries. Many of these were signed decades ago and do not serve the countrys current interests. Some even allow companies to move profits out of Nigeria easily. He has started talks with several countries to change these deals and close the loopholes. He spoke about data. About making sure Nigeria can see, in real time, what money is coming in, where it is going, and whether it is being properly taxed. He said it is not acceptable for the country to be blind to financial movements happening in its economy. He mentioned that FIRS is building a modern data engine that can track transactions more efficiently. This is what it means to upgrade the tools of revenue protection. Another important point he made was about unity. He said the work of stopping illicit financial flows is not for FIRS alone. It will require the Nigeria Customs Service, the Central Bank, the EFCC, the ICPC, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Trade, and even international partners. Everyone must be on the same page. If we are paying attention, we will also remember that the FIRS now has a new directorate focused specifically on tackling illicit flows and recovering lost assets. It is called the Proceeds of Crime Management and Illicit Flows Coordination Directorate. It didnt exist before. This is part of what the Tax Boss created to make sure the work is not just theoretical but backed by a unit with the power and capacity to act. The directorate is designed to coordinate internally and externally, especially with other law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies. Mr Zacch Adedeji came with the voice of someone who understands that Nigeria is bleeding revenue and that this bleeding must stop. His words did not blame others. They called for action, for systems, for collaboration, and for urgent reforms that reflect the reality of our economy in 2025, not that of 1985. The Tax Boss is not just managing a revenue agency. He is confronting a system that for years has quietly allowed the wealth of our dear nation to leak out without accountability. He is bringing the matter to the table, bringing people into the room, building structures, and facing what many before him avoided. The work is not done. Mr Zacch Adedeji is not doing guesswork. This kind of leadership is rare. It is serious, focused, and rooted in national interest. Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant on broadcast media to the executive chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service. Ugo Ferdinand Ukwueze, the chairperson of Igbo-Eze South Local Government Council of Enugu State, has hailed the collaboration between his council and the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) for job creation in the area. Mr Ukwueze stated this when the NDE management team in Enugu State visited him at the Igbo-Eze South Council Secretariat on 18 July. The Enugu State Coordinator of the NDE, Oluka Godwin, led the delegation. This visit signals a new phase in our collective efforts to tackle youths unemployment, equip our people with employable skills, and drive grassroots development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government and the Disruptive Innovation vision of His Excellency, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Mr Ukwueze said in a Facebook post on 17 July, adding that he was honoured to receive the NDE coordinator and his management team. As I shared during our engagement, our administration has been intentional and strategic in attracting opportunities that will uplift our youth. This partnership with NDE aligns perfectly with our earlier moves, including my December 2024 visit to their office, where I advocated for the reactivation of our councils skill acquisition centre and proposed tailored programmes for our youths across Enugu North Senatorial Zone. Mr Ukwuezes administration has already laid a solid foundation for skill acquisition in the council area with the inauguration of the Igbo-Eze South Youth Development and Welfare Committee led by Erochukwu Matthew Ukwueze. The councils chairperson disclosed that the insightful recommendations from the youth development and welfare committee have shaped his administrations roadmap for youth development in Igbo-Eze South. I sincerely thank Mr Oluka and his team for their willingness to collaborate with our administration in making sure that our teaming youths are well-prepared for the tasks ahead of them. We have agreed to commence immediate joint planning for the rollout of the second phase of the Renewed Hope Empowerment Initiative here in Igbo-Eze South. This will include vocational training, access to tools and sustainable empowerment for our young people. Together, we will build a more productive, skilled, and prosperous Igbo-Eze South, he stated. Mr Ukwueze, a lawyer, is the deputy chairperson of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Enugu State Chapter. In a renewed effort to combat desertification and restore degraded lands in the semi-arid regions, the Jigawa Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (Jigawa ACReSAL) project, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), has successfully conducted a two-day field-based technical support mission for land restoration in Sabaru Gallu community of Kazaure Local Government Area. The initiative aims to restore 5,000 hectares of degraded land. The mission began with a courtesy visit to the Emir of Kazaure Najib Hussaini Adamu. The delegation was led by the federal project management Unit of ACReSAL and the FAO. In his remarks, the royal father who was impressed with the initiative, emphasised the need to prioritizes indigenous and drought resistant tree species and technologies to ensure long-term environmental sustainability and community ownership. The team proceeded to a practical fieldwork session focused on tree planting and fodder establishment. During the exercise, key community actors including community leaders, womens groups, religious leaders and community interest groups were actively engaged in hands-on activities with sensitization and awareness campaigns aimed to strengthen climate resilience, improve livelihoods, and foster community ownership of land restoration efforts. In their separate remarks, the FPMU and the FAO lauded the efforts of the Jigawa ACReSAL for providing the enabling environment necessary for successful implementation of the mission. Earlier, the Jigawa ACReSAL project coordinator Yahaya Muhammad Uba while commending the FPMU for giving Jigawa the needed support to thrive, the SPC stressed the need for community ownership. This initiative is part of ACReSALs broader commitment to reversing desertification and enhancing food security in Nigeria. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has shut down a lithium mining operation in Libata, Kebbi State, for alleged mining law violations and for defrauding the Nigerian government of an estimated 1.43 trillion. According to the NSCDCs Mining Marshals, the operators were linked to a company under investigation for significant mineral theft and regulatory breaches. As reported by The Nation, officials alleged the firm, in collaboration with unnamed foreign nationals, illegally extracted lithium valued at 1.43 trillion (1,431,762,340,450) over a two-year period. Regulators claimed the company exceeded the scope of its Small Scale Mining License (SSML) and Exploration License, encroaching on areas owned by another titleholder. This action, according to officials, contravenes Section 46(2) of the 2007 Minerals and Mining Act and Section 48 of the Nigerian Mining Regulations, 2011. The NSCDC said these activities not only deprived the government of crucial revenue but also undermined the legal framework designed to protect Nigerias mineral resources. The crackdown followed an inspection involving security personnel, state mine officers, and company representatives. The directors of Three Crown Mines, the firm implicated, failed to appear before investigators in Abuja on 21 July, citing inconvenience through a letter from their counsel. John Onoja, Assistant Commandant of Corps and Commander of the Mining Marshals, dismissed the excuse as unacceptable, warning against any attempts to impede the investigation. He insisted that a new appearance date must be mutually agreed upon to ensure the probe continues. We will not negotiate the mineral fortune of Nigeria across any roundtable. Mineral theft is not a compoundable offence, Mr Onoja stated, emphasising the NSCDCs zero tolerance policy towards mineral theft. This enforcement action comes weeks after the Ministry of Solid Minerals fined Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company 2 billion following a similar investigation led by the Marshals. Mr Onoja affirmed that these recent operations align with President Bola Tinubus Renewed Hope Agenda and the directives of Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals. Abubakar Audi, NSCDC Commandant-General, reinforced the importance of law enforcement in safeguarding national prosperity. The enforcement of laws that protect federal revenue is foundational to Nigerias prosperity. The sanitisation of the mining sector is not just necessaryit is non-negotiable, he said. Lithium, a vital component in global energy transition technologies, is central to Nigerias economic strategy. Officials warn that its unchecked exploitation poses a significant threat to both national revenue and sovereignty The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has conducted a public auction of forfeited houses acquired with proceeds of drug trafficking or used as instrumentality of committing the crime. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the exercise which took place in Abuja on Tuesday had pre-qualified auctioneers, bidders, representatives of Civil Society Organisations and the media as well as other government agencies in attendance. Speaking, at the occasion, the NDLEA chairperson, Buba Marwa, a retired brigadier-general, said that the agency would continue to combine incarceration with asset forfeiture. Mr Marwa, represented by the NDLEA Secretary, Shedrack Haruna, said it would also serve as a powerful tool to deter drug trafficking and related crimes in the country. Legal basis He said the agencys approach was guided in the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), which empowers law enforcement bodies to seize and dispose of properties acquired through criminal activity. I tell you that with the coming of POCA, they are threatening the process of deterrence, because nothing again is painful to criminals when we take away the profit of their crimes. The aim is not only to punish drug offenders through prosecution and imprisonment but also to ensure they do not return from prison to enjoy the proceeds of their crimes. Our prosecutorial teams are very strong, and when conviction is achieved, we go after the assets. Thats why we have a Directorate of Financial Investigation to trace and recover what they have gained or used in committing the crime, he said. Marwa said that the agency remained committed to ensuring that forfeited assets were transparently auctioned in a manner that benefits the public. Commenting on the outcome of the auction, the NDELA boss noted that some properties were not sold due to low bids and therefore, failed to meet the governments reserve price. The Federal Ministry of Works is our official government valuer. Once they give us a valuation, it becomes our benchmark. If bids fall below that valuation, we cannot accept them, he said. Concerns Mr Marwa, however, acknowledged concerns raised by auctioneers about properties in locations viewed as high-risk or unsafe, saying that the realities would be reviewed with the valuers to determine whether revaluation was needed. We are aware that some people are reluctant to bid on properties formerly owned by criminal enterprises, especially in volatile areas. Some locations like Tudun Wada in Kano had no bidders at all. Others, like properties in Odo, Ogun State, had bids far below market value due to perceived risks, Mr Marwa said. The NDELA boss, however, assured that feedback from the bidding process would be documented and forwarded to the appropriate authorities for further valuation and review. Mr Marwa maintained that NDLEA remained firm in its mission to cripple criminal enterprises and disrupt the drug trafficking value chain by stripping offenders of their illicit wealth. Open exercise, strong message Speaking at the bidding exercise, Umar Yakubu, representative from the Centre for Transparency and Integrity Watch, commended the NDLEA for conducting a process he described as open, credible, and compliant with international best practices. Mr Yakubu noted that the level of transparency observed was commendable and reflective of a strong institutional culture that prioritised public accountability. He encouraged the NDLEA to amplify such efforts as a public education tool to underscore the consequences of drug crimes. Mr Yakubu also emphasised that beyond incarceration, assets forfeiture sends a strong signal to criminals that crime does not pay. The message is clear. Losing both your freedom and your assets is not a good outcome. READ ALSO: NDLEA operative shot dead on duty Criminals must understand that the justice system is serious about dismantling their operations and seizing the fruits of their crimes,he said. In his remarks, Director, Proceeds of Crime Management in NDLEA, Jerry Aernan, noted that participating auctioneers were pre-qualified by the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) and had met the required integrity checks. This, he said, was to ensure that disposed assets were not returned to original owners through the back door. He also emphasised that successful bidders must pay 10 per cent of their bid value within 14 days to confirm their interest, while the full payment was expected within a stipulated timeframe. NAN reports that the auction involved forfeited eight properties across Lagos, Kano, Ondo, and Ogun states. NAN also reports that two of the houses located in Lekki and Ikorodu areas of Lagos State were stepped down from the process due to notices of appeal received after the processes had begun. Six other properties were auctioned to pre-qualified bidders, with only two sold at over N139 million following successful bids above their reserved prices. Others either failed to receive any bids or attracted offers below the benchmark. (NAN) Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has described the passage into law of the state electricity bill as a major tool to deepen and boost the economy of the state. On Monday, the Osun House of Assembly passed a bill to establish an electricity regulatory commission for the state. The bill, Osun State Electricity Market Regulatory Bill 2025, was passed after its third reading during plenary in Osogbo. The bill, once signed into law, will empower the state to establish an Electricity Regulatory Commission responsible for overseeing electricity-related matters across Osun, Olamide Tiamiyu, the Chief Press Secretary to the speaker of the house, said on Monday. Reacting to the passage of the executive bill, the governor, in a statement issued Tuesday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, said the bill will open windows of opportunities for investors in the power sector with a lot of offgrid generation opportunities. Mr Adeleke added that sources of power generation will be diversified, opened up and regulated to address what he called chronic power supply crisis rocking the state. The new law will ensure the right energy mix. Renewable energy will complement the traditional energy sources. Osun state is open to new energy sector investors, Mr Adeleke was quoted as saying. Aside from tapping into various power generation sources in the state, he said the era of exploitation and oppression of Osun people by some officials of Ibadan electricity distribution company is over. He explained that the new law provides for the establishment of the State Electricity Regulatory Agency to regulate and monitor the electricity market as well as attend to service delivery issues by the distribution company. He stressed that the commission will be empowered to address complaints of electricity users and act on the activities of the distribution company, warning that the DisCo should sit tight now ahead of the eventual take off of the commission. The regulatory commission will be addressing critical issues relating to customer service providers complaints. It will grant licenses to power generators among others. The commission will not allow current maltreatment of electricity users in the state. I will invite all stakeholders to the signing into law ceremony. The business community in Osun state should heave a sigh of relief. The much needed policy framework for the state power sector has arrived, he said. The governor commended the House of Assembly, the State Ministry of Energy and all those who worked on the draft bill and participated in the consultation processes leading to the passage by the state assembly. In March 2023, former President late Muhammadu Buhari signed 16 constitutional amendment bills, one of which pertains to the devolution of powers concerning the national grid system. It also provided clarity on the powers of the federal government and states to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity. In June 2024, President Bola Tinubu assented to the electricity bill, which authorises states, companies, and individuals to generate, transmit and distribute electricity. The new electricity law repeals the Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA), signed by President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2005. With the new law, states would be able to issue licenses to private investors who can operate mini-grids and power plants, but such state licenses are not to extend to inter-state or transnational distribution of electricity. In the same year, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) began the process of granting states the authority to manage their electricity markets, including the generation, transmission, and distribution of power within their boundaries. The acting National Chairperson of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, has said that the PDP is hopeful of winning the governorship and other elections in Akwa Ibom State in 2027 despite Governor Umo Enos defection from the party to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Mr Damagum stated this on Tuesday in Abuja when a former member of the House of Representatives from Akwa Ibom, Onofiok Luke, and a former commissioner in the state, Ini Ememobong, visited him in his office. The PDP National Youth Leader, Muhammed Suleiman, and the partys National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, were present during the visit. Mr Ememobong, a former PDP publicity secretary in Akwa Ibom, refused to join others to defect with Mr Eno to the APC in June. Instead, he resigned his appointment as the commissioner for special duty and Ibom Deep Seaport. Mr Luke, a former speaker of the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, is from Nsit Ubium Local Government Area with Governor Eno. He also refused to defect from the PDP to the APC. Messrs Luke and Ememobong have posted photos and comments on their separate Facebook pages about the meeting with Mr Damagum. The PDP acting chairperson commended Mr Ememobong for being a principled politician who is not moved by every wind of inconvenience. He said many credible PDP stalwarts, who did not defect with Governor Eno, are still very active in the party. With these people and the historic love that Akwa Ibom people have for the PDP, we are hopeful to win all the elections in the state, the chairperson said of Messrs Luke, Ememobong, and other PDP leaders in Akwa Ibom. The PDP has been plagued by an internal leadership crisis, which has forced many of its members, including federal and state lawmakers, to defect to the APC. Governor Eno said he left the PDP because of the partys crisis. He also said he wants to support President Bola Tinubus re-election bid and align Akwa Ibom with the centre to attract federal support for infrastructural development, especially for the Ibom Deep Seaport project. Besides Mr Eno, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State defected from the PDP to the APC. Gov Enos defection Governor Eno formally joined the ruling APC in June, ending the PDPs 26-year rule in oil-rich Akwa Ibom. Before joining the party, Mr Eno told cabinet members unwilling to join him in the new party to resign their appointments. We want our commissioners and members of Exco, appointees, and those of you who are saying that you would not come, you are free absolutely not to join me, but you wont be in my State Executive Council. Prepare to resign the day I announce that I am moving because you cannot; you are an appointee, and your loyalty is fully to me. You cant be in my cabinet and play anti-party. It is what it is. I am even begging you to come, you normally dont expect it. You have the right not to support me again, but the right you dont have is to remain in my cabinet after I leave. I am making it clear, Mr Eno had said. And on 6 June, the day he finally dumped the PDP for the APC, Mr Ememobong resigned his appointment, citing the governors directives. Today, I have tendered my resignation to the Governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign. While I cannot question or fault the Governors personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn. My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long-standing opposition to that political platform, which is daily validated by numerous Nigerians across many sectors, Mr Ememobong wrote in his resignation letter. Both Mr Ememobong and Mr Eno served as commissioners in the immediate past administration of then-Governor Udom Emmanuel. Mr Emmanuel later unveiled Mr Eno as his preferred candidate and helped him to win the governorship election in 2023. Governor Eno first appointed Mr Ememobong as the commissioner for information, and later redeployed him to the Ministry of Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport, the position he served until his resignation. Governor Enos predecessor, Mr Emmanuel, remains a member of the PDP. AGH a "Best Regional Hospital" for Clinical Excellence in 15 different specialties; Five other AHN Hospitals also lauded PITTSBURGH, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Allegheny Health Network (AHN) West Penn Hospital, AHN's flagship hospital for women's health, has been named one of the top 50 hospitals in the nation for obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN), according to the U.S. News and World Report Best Hospitals Rankings, released to the public today. AHN West Penn was ranked 35th in the nation for OB/GYN care, marking the fourth consecutive year the hospital has been placed in the top 50 for womens care by U.S. News. AHN West Penn was ranked 35th in the nation for OB/GYN, marking the fourth consecutive year the hospital has been placed in the top 50 for women's care by U.S. News. It has also been designated as a high-performing hospital for gynecologic oncology (GYN/ONC), among other procedures and specialties. To identify the best hospitals in the country for obstetrics and gynecology, U.S. News evaluates facilities that provide a high volume of complex care related to pelvic, cervical, uterine and ovarian cancers, diseases and procedures. U.S. News considers factors such as 30-day survival for complex conditions, the number of patients served, and advanced technologies and services available. Also factored into the final ranking are the views of patients about the quality of their experience at hospitals, as well as the hospital's reputation among board-certified physicians. "Allegheny Health Network is immensely proud of the AHN West Penn team and the AHN Women's Institute," stated Marcia Klein-Patel, MD, PhD, OB/GYN physician and chair of AHN Women's Institute. "This marks the fourth year in a row that U.S. News & World Report has acknowledged our commitment to women's health, and this remarkable achievement is a direct result of the tireless efforts and compassionate care provided by our extraordinary physicians and clinicians day in and day out. Their unwavering dedication to positive health outcomes and the well-being of women across this region is at the heart of our continued success." West Penn Hospital is AHN's busiest labor and delivery center, delivering about 4,000 babies each year, and it includes a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit that offers high-level care to critically ill babies. The hospital also houses the AHN Women's Behavioral Health and the Alexis Joy D'Achille Center for Perinatal Mental Health, supporting mothers during pregnancy, postpartum and beyond. AHN West Penn and the AHN Women's Institute are also home to an award-winning gynecologic oncology care team that specializes in the treatment, management and care of reproductive cancers such as ovarian, cervical and uterine, as well as vaginal and vulva cancers. The GYN/ONC care team is known for its highly skilled practitioners, advanced, cutting-edge cancer therapies and participation in the industry's latest research and clinical trials, in collaboration with the AHN Cancer Institute. AGH a "Best Regional Hospital" for Excellence in 15 different specialties AHN's Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) was also recognized as a Best Regional Hospital by U.S. News for rating as a high performer in 15 different procedures and conditions across cardiovascular medicine, neurology, oncology and orthopedics. AHN hospitals were recognized as high performers in numerous other procedures and conditions, as follows. Allegheny General Hospital: Abdominal aortic aneurysm, aortic valve surgery, arrhythmia, heart attack, heart bypass surgery, heart failure, pacemaker, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), spinal fusion (orthopedics and neurology), colon cancer surgery, lung cancer surgery, leukemia and lymphoma cancers, hip & knee replacements Abdominal aortic aneurysm, aortic valve surgery, arrhythmia, heart attack, heart bypass surgery, heart failure, pacemaker, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), spinal fusion (orthopedics and neurology), colon cancer surgery, lung cancer surgery, leukemia and lymphoma cancers, hip & knee replacements Forbes Hospital: abdominal aortic aneurysm, arrythmia, heart bypass surgery, heart failure, COPD, colon and lung cancer surgeries, hip and knee replacements abdominal aortic aneurysm, arrythmia, heart bypass surgery, heart failure, COPD, colon and lung cancer surgeries, hip and knee replacements Jefferson Hospital: heart failure, diabetes, spinal fusion (orthopedics and neurology), leukemia and lymphoma cancers, hip fracture, hip and knee replacements heart failure, diabetes, spinal fusion (orthopedics and neurology), leukemia and lymphoma cancers, hip fracture, hip and knee replacements West Penn Hospital: heart attack, leukemia and lymphoma cancers heart attack, leukemia and lymphoma cancers Allegheny Valley Hospital: COPD COPD Saint Vincent Hospital ( Erie, Pa ): arrythmia, TAVR, colon cancer "We are extremely grateful for the exceptional caregiving teams at AHN West Penn, AGH and all of the AHN hospitals whose clinical services were lauded this year by U.S. News," said Mark Sevco, AHN president and CEO. "This recognition signifies not just the excellence of our clinical programs, but the tremendous value that our services and people bring to the communities we serve." SOURCE Allegheny Health Network Financing co-led by new investors Sofinnova Investments and B Capital, along with an existing investor with continued support from F-Prime, Omega Funds, and Third Rock Ventures. Additional new investors include Qatar Investment Authority and Alexandria Venture Investments. Funding will support the advancement of lead asset AB001 through Phase II development, the progress of additional undisclosed programs toward IND readiness, and the expansion of a unique supply chain leveraging ARTBIO's proprietary generator technology. CAMBRIDGE, Mass. and OSLO, Norway, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ARTBIO, Inc. ("ARTBIO"), a clinical-stage radiopharmaceutical company developing a new class of alpha radioligand therapies (ARTs) to treat a range of cancers, today announced the closing of a $132 million Series B financing co-led by new investors Sofinnova Investments and B Capital along with a life sciences dedicated investment fund that invested previously. Further support came from existing investors F-Prime, Omega Funds, and Third Rock Ventures, and new investors Qatar Investment Authority and Alexandria Venture Investments. These proceeds will be used to advance the company's development of ARTs. "This sizable investment from both existing and new investors will enable ARTBIO to continue innovating therapies that treat a range of deadly cancers with power and precision," said Emanuele Ostuni, Ph.D., CEO of ARTBIO. "Our team is grateful for the investment and recognition of the need to build a supply chain that matches the properties of the therapies and the unique payload that we use." This latest round of funding will support the advancement of ARTBIO's pipeline, including its lead program, AB001, for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, through Phase II clinical trials, and enable continued expansion of the company's supply chain. The company plans to rapidly advance its manufacturing network infrastructure to supply global clinical trials, and ultimately, commercialization. "ARTBIO's approach to ART has the potential to positively change standards of care in cancer," said Robert Mittendorff, M.D., General Partner at B Capital. "ARTBIO's lead asset, AB001, is designed to fully harness the unique power of lead-212. My team and I are excited for what's to come." A critical enabler of ARTBIO's success is its patented AlphaDirect isotope isolation technology, which enables flexible production of clinical-grade lead-212 (212Pb) and therapeutic doses daily. This is achieved by a strategically distributed manufacturing network, improving access and de-risking common supply chain issues. "With a differentiated ART portfolio and integrated manufacturing approach, ARTBIO represents the ideal company that we look to partner with," said Maha Katabi, Ph.D., General Partner at Sofinnova Investments. "Equally impressive is their proprietary generator technology which is a game-changer for navigating around supply and production challenges for radioisotopes in today's complex environment." About ARTBIO ARTBIO is a clinical-stage radiopharmaceutical company redefining cancer care by creating a new class of alpha radioligand therapies (ARTs). The unique ARTBIO approach selects the optimal alpha-precursor isotope (Pb212) and tumor-specific targets to create therapeutics with the potential for highest efficacy and safety. The company's AlphaDirect technology, a first-of-its-kind 212Pb isolation method, enables a distributed manufacturing approach for the reliable production and delivery of ARTs. ARTBIO is advancing multiple pipeline programs with lead program AB001 in metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer currently in first in human trials. ARTBIO is shaped by a long-standing scientific legacy with nearly a century of pioneering work in radiation therapy conducted at the University of Oslo and Norway's Radium Hospital. For more information, visit www.artbio.com, and follow us on LinkedIn. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2739308/ARTBIO_Logo_Logo.jpg NASHVILLE, Tenn., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bailey Equipment & Intralogistics , a trusted provider of material handling solutions for over 75 years, has announced a new strategic partnership with GreyOrange , a global leader in AI-powered warehouse automation. This partnership marks a major step forward in Bailey's mission to help businesses build smarter, safer, and more efficient warehouse environments. GreyMatter With the addition of GreyOrange's GreyMatter software platform, Bailey now offers intelligent automation that enhances warehouse performance while solving common fulfillment challenges like labor shortages, accuracy gaps, and rising operational demands. Through GreyOrange's Certified Ranger Network , GreyMatter supports a vast range of curated robotic solutions for any fulfillment need. Customers enjoy the utmost flexibility whether they're planning a greenfield or brownfield project, a series of incremental automations or an all-in-one warehouse transformation. "At Bailey, we're always looking for ways to help our customers solve real-world challenges in their warehouse operations," said Ryan Bailey, President of Bailey. "Partnering with GreyOrange gives us the ability to offer scalable, intelligent automation that meets the demands of today's supply chain while building a foundation for tomorrow." Bridging Hands-On Expertise with Advanced Automation Bailey serves hundreds of businesses across Tennessee, Georgia, and Kentucky with comprehensive intralogistics solutionsfrom forklifts and racking to warehouse design and service. Known for its customer-first approach, Bailey is a key partner for companies looking to streamline operations and scale efficiently. Through this partnership, Bailey now brings GreyOrange's next-generation automation capabilities to customers, enabling: Real-time orchestration of tasks across workers and robots Scalable robotic systems for picking, sorting, and material movement Dynamic fulfillment that adapts to demand spikes and inventory flow More efficient, flexible operations that reduce bottlenecks and downtime A Smarter Approach to Fulfillment GreyOrange's GreyMatter platform uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to manage the flow of goods within a facility. It continuously analyzes inventory data, workforce availability, and order demand to make more than 1 million decisions per minutehelping operations get more done, faster and with fewer errors. And it learns as it goes, refining workflows in real time and becoming more efficient with every performance cycle. For Bailey's customers, this means automation solutions that are tailored, adaptive, and grounded in measurable ROI. Whether upgrading a legacy facility or building new, Bailey now provides a streamlined path to automationfrom planning and installation to long-term support. Shared Values in Innovation and Sustainability Bailey was the first Zero Waste-certified forklift company in the U.S., and the company continues to prioritize sustainable, efficient systems that support long-term growth. GreyOrange's technology aligns with that vision, offering automation that reduces energy use, improves throughput, and supports human workers rather than replacing them. Together, Bailey and GreyOrange are delivering future-ready fulfillment solutions backed by local support, global technology, and a shared commitment to operational excellence. Explore GreyOrange's technology at www.greyorange.com About Bailey Equipment & Intralogistics Founded in 1949, Bailey is a premier provider of comprehensive material handling solutions across Tennessee, northern Georgia, and southeastern Kentucky. As the nation's first TRUE Zero Waste forklift dealership, Bailey's commitment extends to sustainability, community involvement, and operational excellence. For more information, visit https://baileycompany.com/ . About GreyOrange GreyOrange Inc. leads the industry in hyper-intelligent warehouse orchestration and store inventory management software. Its AI-powered GreyMatter and gStore solutions continuously optimize automation, inventory and workforce management for some of the world's largest retailers and 3PLs. Through real-time visibility into all omnichannel nodes and the seamless orchestration of robotic agents, people and systems, customers reduce their cost per unit, eliminate lost inventory, ensure worker safety and productivity, and enhance in-store experiences. Vendor-agnostic and compatible with diverse automation hardware via the Certified Ranger Network, GreyOrange solutions are delivered through its Certified Partner Network of system integrators. Founded in 2012, GreyOrange is headquartered in Atlanta with offices and partners across the Americas, Europe and Asia. For more information, visit www.greyorange.com . Media Contact Jenna Roberts Email: [email protected] Phone: (651) 242-0351 SOURCE The Bailey Company PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Thai and Cambodian leaders have agreed to implement a ceasefire starting midnight on Monday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said following a special meeting here. The ceasefire meeting between Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai was hosted by Anwar on Monday afternoon in the Malaysian Prime Minister's residence in Putrajaya. Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing attended the meeting and delivered a speech. At a joint press conference following the ceasefire talks, Anwar outlined a step-by-step de-escalation process and the mechanism through which it will be implemented and monitored. "Both Cambodia and Thailand reached a common understanding as follows -- an immediate and unconditional ceasefire with effect from 24:00 hours (local time) on 28 July 2025. This is a vital first step towards de-escalation and the restoration of peace and security," he said. According to Anwar, the initial ceasefire will be followed by the reestablishment of contacts between the regional army commanders on both sides through a face-to-face meeting at 7 a.m. local time on July 29, which will be followed by a meeting of the defense attaches of both sides, led by the chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) if both sides are agreeable, and finally a meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) on Aug. 4 to be hosted by Cambodia. "As the current chair of ASEAN, Malaysia stands ready to coordinate an observer team to verify and ensure the implementation of the ceasefire. Malaysia will also consult with fellow ASEAN member states to participate in the observation effort, reflecting a regional commitment to supporting peace on the ground," he said. "Both sides also agree to resume direct communications between both prime ministers, foreign ministers and defense ministers," Anwar added. Hun Manet said the successful talks would provide a lot of opportunities for hundreds of thousands of people on both sides to return to normalcy and mark the beginning of efforts to rebuild trust, confidence and cooperation between Cambodia and Thailand. For his part, Phumtham said that the outcome achieved here reflected Thailand's desire for peaceful resolution while continuing to protect the country's sovereignty and the lives of Thai people. "We agreed to a ceasefire which will be carried out successfully in good faith by both sides," he added. According to the joint press release after this special meeting, the foreign ministers and defense ministers of Malaysia, Cambodia, and Thailand have been instructed to develop a detailed mechanism for the implementation, verification, and reporting of the ceasefire. This mechanism will serve as a foundation for sustained peace and accountability. Since the armed clashes between Cambodian and Thai soldiers over disputed border areas broke out on Thursday, more than 30 people have been killed from both sides, and more than 100,000 people have been evacuated to safe areas, according to figures provided by the two countries. Both sides have accused each other of violating international law and opening fire first. As the 2025 ASEAN Chair, Malaysia has in recent days actively pushed for Thailand and Cambodia to return to the negotiating table, hoping to ease tensions through dialogue and to fully leverage ASEAN's role for regional peace and stability. Over 50% of the units have already been reserved prior to public launch. Luxury Living Group has furnished a unique Bentley Home interior for each of the residences. MARBELLA, Spain, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In one of the most prestigious locations in Europe, just 50 metres from the Puente Romano resort and in the heart of Marbella's Golden Mile, RGZ Developers launches Mirador de Puente Romano Furnished by Bentley Home: an ultra-exclusive collection of only eight duplex apartments. Recreation of Mirador de Puente Romano residences. AIDA BENTLEY logo Bentley Home, the furniture and lifestyle brand developed and distributed by Luxury Living Group, is synonymous with craftsmanship, sophistication, and automotive heritage. For this exclusive project, Bentley Home has been responsible for endowing each residence with timeless and refined interiors, where each detail reflects the excellence and expertise that make Bentley a global icon of luxury. From bespoke furniture to exquisite materials and flawless finishes, this collaboration offers a residential experience that goes beyond the conventional. The development has entered its private sales phase with an exceptional reception: over 50% of the units have already been reserved ahead of public commercialization. The eight residences, with prices starting at 3,450,000 and ranging between 350 and 480 m, include 3 to 4 bedrooms, private terraces, pools, exclusive access, and enjoy panoramic sea views. All this is integrated within a carefully preserved natural environment, offering privileged views and maximum privacy, just minutes from Marbella's city center and Puerto Banus. "Mirador de Puente Romano is the highest expression of our vision: to create exceptional properties in unparalleled locations. The alliance with Luxury Living Group not only enhances the design and exclusivity of each unit but also turns these homes into unique collector's pieces," states Juan Manuel Reyes, CEO and Founding Partner of RGZ Developers. The new Creand Wealth Management office in Malaga, led by Rafael Alvarez-Net, has closely collaborated with RGZ Developers in securing the capital required to launch the project. BENTLEY HOME by LUXURY LIVING GROUP Launched in 2013, the Bentley Home collection celebrates the distinctive silhouettes and shapes synonymous with Bentley and translates these into a new language of interior design. Ranging from elegant bedroom and sumptuous lounge furniture to exquisite accessories, each contemporary design is crafted in Italy by highly-skilled artisans. Bentley Home offers unique and recognizable products, created thanks to the mastery and manual skills of Italian excellence. Extreme attention to every little detail, to offer the customer an inimitable experience. The combination of the typical excellence of the English brand, the knowhow of the best Italian artisans and the innovation of the most famous designers makes this collection unique in the world of furniture. Furnished by/Designed by Bentley Home programme is available upon request and offers interior design services for Projects. RGZ RGZ Developers, founded by Juan Manuel Reyes, responds to the demand for luxury properties on the Costa del Sol, particularly in Marbella. With projects valued at over 900 million, the company specializes in exclusive real estate developments where architectural innovation and advanced technology are key. From private villas to sustainable luxury hotels, each project stands out for its precision and excellence. LUXURY LIVING GROUP Luxury Living Group is leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of luxury furniture for some of the most important brands on the international scene: Versace, Dolce&Gabbana, Trussardi, Bentley Motors, Bugatti, as well as its own brand, Luxence Luxury Living. A success story marked by craftsmanship, experimentation, and fine materials. The Luxury Living Group collections are the result of meticulous production processes: the attention to detail and craftsmanship enhance creativity, elegance and design, always balancing tradition and innovation. A journey through the creation of furniture and accessories of excellent workmanship that at every stage, from the conception to the production of the prototype and the creation of the final item, exalts the Made in Italy values. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2739178/RGZ_Bentley.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2739177/RGZ_Developers_Logo.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2739179/AIDA_BENTLEY_Logo.jpg SOURCE RGZ Developers Bit2Me has become the first Spanish-speaking fintech to receive authorization from the CNMV to operate as a Crypto -Asset Service Provider (CASP), in accordance with the procedure required by the European Markets in Crypto -Assets Regulation (MiCA). to receive authorization from the CNMV to operate as a -Asset Service Provider (CASP), in accordance with the procedure required by the European Markets in -Assets Regulation (MiCA). The Regulation came into effect on December 30, 2024 . With this approval, once Bit2Me is registered with the official records of the CNMV and ESMA (the European authority), it will be authorized to operate across Europe . . With this approval, once Bit2Me is registered with the official records of the CNMV and ESMA (the European authority), it will be authorized to operate across . This regulation aims to provide a clearer legal framework for crypto -assets, ensuring investor protection and financial stability within the EU. MADRID, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bit2Me, the leading digital asset company in the Spanish-speaking market, has reached a historic milestone by becoming the first crypto-asset fintech in Spain to receive authorization from the Comision Nacional del Mercado de Valores (CNMV) to operate as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP). Leif Ferreira, CEO of Bit2Me, and Andrei Manuel, co-founder and COO of Bit2Me This authorization, granted in accordance with the rigorous procedure established by the European Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), marks a key step forward for Bit2Me in its goal to offer regulated and transparent crypto-asset services tailored to the needs of all users. Thanks to this new regulatory status, Bit2Me can confidently continue its expansion across Europe, ensuring its services remain user-friendly and fully aligned with the strictest European regulations. The MiCA Regulation, which represents a significant leap forward in the regulation of the crypto-asset market at the European level, came into full application on December 30, 2024. And as of today, Bit2Me is now authorized to operate under this new framework, reinforcing its role as a key player in the European crypto ecosystem and allowing the company to continue growing in a safe and regulated environment. Leif Ferreira, CEO and co-founder of Bit2Me, stated his satisfaction with the achievement: "Being the first Spanish and Spanish-speaking fintech to obtain this authorization under the MiCA regulatory framework is a testament to our commitment to transparency, security, and trust in the crypto-asset market. We are ready to lead this new chapter in the industry's regulation, offering our users the confidence of operating on a platform fully aligned with European regulations." According to Joao Augusto Teixeira, Chief Compliance Officer at Bit2Me, "Obtaining this authorization not only highlights Bit2Me's leadership in the crypto industry, but also underscores its dedication to meeting the highest regulatory standards, setting a benchmark in both the Spanish and European markets." On February 17, 2022, Bit2Me also became the first Spanish company to be registered by the Bank of Spain as a provider of services for exchanging virtual currency into fiat and as a custodian of electronic wallets, thereby confirming its compliance with the professional integrity and anti-money laundering standards required for credit institutions. With the implementation of the MiCA Regulation, Bit2Me reaffirms its mission to facilitate accessible, transparent, and regulated access to crypto-assets. This will allow the company to continue strengthening its position as one of the most reliable and advanced platforms in the sector, focused on delivering solutions tailored to the needs of all users, while continuing its expansion throughout Europe and internationally. Investment in crypto assets is not fully regulated, may not be suitable for retail investors due to their high volatility, and there is a risk of losing the entire invested amount. Media Contact: Bit2Me Communications Department [email protected] Website: www.bit2me.com Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2740204/Bit2Me.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2740185/Bit2Me_Logo.jpg SOURCE Bit2Me DUBAI, UAE, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bybit , the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, is marking the 10th anniversary of Ethereum with a limited-time ETH Trading Competition , offering a prize pool of 100,000 USDT. Bybit Launches ETH Trading Competition With 100,000 USDT Prize Pool Ethereum, launched on July 30, 2015, is a decentralized blockchain platform that introduced the concept of smart contracts self-executing agreements coded directly onto the blockchain. As the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, Ethereum has become a foundational infrastructure for decentralized applications (dApps), powering key innovations across DeFi (decentralized finance), NFTs (non-fungible tokens), and DAOs (decentralized autonomous organizations). Its flexible, open-source architecture has positioned it at the center of Web3 development over the past decade. "Ethereum has reshaped the digital world over the past decade," said Claudia Wang, Head of Marketing at Bybit. "We're proud to celebrate this industry milestone with our community through an engaging and rewarding trading competition." The event will run through August 5, commemorating a decade since the blockchain platform first went live in 2015. Participants who trade ETH on Bybit's Spot or Derivatives markets during the event window will compete for leaderboard positions, with rewards distributed based on trading volume. The leaderboard extends to the 20,000th place, making it easy for a large number of users to get rewarded. A minimum trading volume of just 100 USDT is enough to be eligible for a chance to rank. The prize pool of 100, 000 USDT includes airdrops ranging from 1 USDT to 200 USDT. #Bybit / #TheCryptoArk About Bybit Bybit is the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 70 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com . For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected] For updates, please follow: Bybit's Communities and Social Media Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube SOURCE Bybit Now selling from the mid $200s, Majestic Manor offers affordable and quality new homes with quick access to Lexington LAWRENCEBURG, Ky., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Century Communities, Inc. (NYSE: CCS)a top national homebuilder, industry leader in online home sales, and featured on America's Most Trustworthy Companies and World's Most Trustworthy Companies by Newsweekannounced that its Century Complete brand is now selling at Majestic Manor, a new community in Lawrenceburg, KY, offering affordable new homes in a prime location near Lexington. Learn more and explore available homes at www.CenturyCommunities.com/MajesticManorKY. Essex Floor Plan | New Homes in Lawrenceburg, KY | Majestic Manor by Century Complete Cabot Floor Plan | New Homes Near Louisville, KY | Majestic Manor by Century Complete "We're thrilled to kick off sales at Majestic Manor, nestled in the heart of Bourbon Country with a central location between amenities in Lexington and Louisville," said Dave Hodgman, Executive Vice President of Field Operations. "We've already seen strong demand at this community, so make sure to check out available homes and speak with our sales team to find your best fit while options are available." MAJESTIC MANOR | LAWRENCEBURG, KY Now selling from the mid $200s Single-family new homes Single- and two-story floor plans 3 to 4 bed, 2 to 3 bath, 2-bay garages Up to 2,014 square feet Luxury vinyl plank flooring, stainless-steel appliances, quartz countertops, Kohler fixtures and more included fixtures and more included Open-concept layouts offer thoughtful design features like main-floor bedrooms, flex spaces, covered patios, and owner's suites with walk-in closets Nestled in the heart of Kentucky's Bourbon Country, near popular distilleries Bourbon Country, near popular distilleries Central location between Lexington and Louisville , with easy access to restaurants, shopping, and local employers Location: 1060 Commerce Way Lawrenceburg, KY 40342 812.650.7225 NEED IN-PERSON ASSISTANCE? VISIT OUR AREA SALES STUDIO! While our state-of-the-art online homebuying process allows you to buy on your terms24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a yearwe also offer in-person assistance from local experts at our Sales Studio in Jeffersonville! 361 Quartermaster Court Jeffersonville, KY 47130 812.650.7225 THE FREEDOM OF ONLINE HOMEBUYING Century Complete is proud to feature its industry-first online homebuying experience on all available homes in Kentucky, allowing homebuyers to easily find their best fit and purchase when they're readyall while continuing to work with their local real estate agent of choice. Homebuyers can further streamline the homebuying process by financing online with Century Complete's affiliate lender, Inspire Home Loans. How it works: Shop homes at CenturyCommunities.com Click "Buy Now" on any available home Fill out a quick Buy Online form Electronically submit an initial earnest money deposit Electronically sign a purchase contract via DocuSign Learn more about the Buy Online experience at www.CenturyCommunities.com/online-homebuying. About Century Communities Century Communities, Inc. (NYSE: CCS) is one of the nation's largest homebuilders and a recognized industry leader in online home sales. Newsweek has named the Company one of America's Most Trustworthy Companies for three consecutive years, and one of the World's Most Trustworthy Companies (2025). Century Communities has also been designated as one of U.S. News & World Report's Best Companies to Work For (20252026). Through its Century Communities and Century Complete brands, Century's mission is to build attractive, high-quality homes at affordable prices to provide its valued customers with A HOME FOR EVERY DREAM. Century is engaged in all aspects of homebuilding including the acquisition, entitlement and development of land, along with the construction, innovative marketing and sale of quality homes designed to appeal to a wide range of homebuyers. The Company operates in 16 states and over 45 markets across the U.S., and also offers mortgage, title, insurance brokerage, and escrow services in select markets through its Inspire Home Loans, Parkway Title, IHL Home Insurance Agency, and IHL Escrow subsidiaries. To learn more about Century Communities, please visit www.centurycommunities.com. SOURCE Century Communities, Inc. PHILADELPHIA, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The law firms Berger Montague PC and Tycko & Zavareei LLP have obtained a decision granting class certification for their clients in a lawsuit against Wexford Health Sources, Inc. ("Wexford"), a provider of healthcare services to correctional facilities, for allegedly denying medication for Opioid Use Disorder to patients in violation of the medical standard of care and the Constitution. The United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia issued the order in Spurlock v. Wexford Health Sources, Inc., No. 3:23-0476 (S.D. West Virginia), which alleges that in denying prisoners necessary medication for Opioid Use Disorder, the defendant violated the standard of care and the Constitution. "This is an important procedural step in this civil rights case for our firm's clients and the class members they represent," said Executive Shareholder Shanon J. Carson." We are proud of our legal team for its diligence efforts." The Berger Montague team also includes Julie Selesnick and Natalie Lesser. "We see this case as an opportunity to help combat the opioid epidemic that is gripping this country, and the Court's order is an important move in that direction," said Tycko & Zavareei attorney Anna Haac. "Wexford should be held accountable for pocketing hundreds of millions in taxpayer dollars each year, while failing to provide life-saving medication to those under its care who desperately need it." The plaintiffs are asserting claims for violations of the Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution, alleging that Wexford engaged in deliberate indifference to the medical needs of incarcerated individuals. In certifying the classes, the Court recognized a central and common question of whether medication for Opioid Use Disorder is the standard of care and whether Wexford's policy limiting access to FDA-approved medication constitutes deliberate indifference. The Court certified two classes, including a damages class of individuals who were confined at certain correctional facilities, had a diagnosis of Opioid Use Disorder, had a prescription for FDA-approved medication to treat the disorder, or were monitored for opioid withdrawal during incarceration, and were not continued on their medication or properly screened. The Court also certified a class for potential injunctive relief to obtain changes in Wexford's policies going forward. As the lawsuit continues, the plaintiffs look forward to proving their class action claims at trial. The law firms are also interested in hearing from men and women across the United States who were denied medication for Opioid Use Disorder while in prison, so that they can continue to tell the story of what is happening in America in this regard and try to fix it. Information about the case is available at www.bergermontague.com/wexford. Berger Montague is one of the nation's preeminent law firms focusing on complex civil litigation, class actions, and mass torts in federal and state courts throughout the United States. The firm is active in the fields of antitrust, civil rights, commercial litigation, consumer protection, defective products, environmental law, employment law, securities, and whistleblower cases, among many other practice areas. For over 55 years, Berger Montague has played lead roles in precedent-setting cases and has recovered over $50 billion for its clients and the classes they have represented. Berger Montague is headquartered in Philadelphia and has offices in Chicago; Malvern, PA; Minneapolis; San Diego; San Francisco; Toronto, Canada; Washington, D.C., and Wilmington, DE. Tycko & Zavareei LLP (TZ) was founded with a mission to protect the public interest through significant, impactful litigation. The firm' s practice focuses on complex litigation, with a particular emphasis on consumer and other types of class actions, as well as qui tam and False Claims Act litigation. As part of its class action practice, the firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for consumers who have been victims of corporate wrongdoing resulting in financial harm, including from junk fees, high interest loans, labeling misrepresentations, civil rights violations, product defects, breach of contract, privacy violations, and other unfair business practices. Media contact: Amy Wall-Monte, Marketing Director Berger Montague PC Email: [email protected] Telephone: (215) 875-3021 SOURCE Berger Montague WASHINGTON, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce released its preliminary finding that the governments of Mexico and Thailand subsidize their chassis industries. Commerce announced affirmative preliminary countervailing duty rates of 133.18% on imports from Mexico and 2.24%, 7.97%, or 9.42% on imports from Thailand, depending on the producer. The U.S. Chassis Manufacturers Coalition, which consists of major American chassis manufacturers Stoughton Trailers and Cheetah Chassis Corporation, thanks Commerce for its decision to impose duties, which are vital to U.S. manufacturers and workers. Chassis are essential to U.S. supply chains, but U.S. production of this critical piece of transportation equipment has been injured by subsidized importsfirst by unfairly priced imports from China, and now from Mexico and Thailand. Today's determinations establish the preliminary duty rates in the subsidies portion of the investigations. Following the publication of Commerce's preliminary determination in the Federal Register in approximately one week, Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to begin suspending liquidation and collecting preliminary duties (in the form of cash deposits) on entries of chassis and chassis subassemblies (such as steel frames) from Mexico and Thailand. These determinations are preliminary, and subsidy rates may increase before the final determination. The countervailing duty investigations are ongoing, and Commerce has not yet had time to fully investigate all potential subsidies, including new subsidy and creditworthiness allegations, which may lead to higher subsidy rates for the final determination. Commerce's final determination is currently expected in late November 2025 but may be extended to align with the corresponding antidumping investigations. These duty rates are only for the countervailing duty investigations. They do not yet include the calculated antidumping rates from the investigations of chassis from Mexico, Thailand, and Vietnam. These preliminary antidumping rates will be announced in late September and added to the preliminary subsidy rates. "Today's decision is a positive first step towards addressing the harm that has been done to the U.S. chassis industry," said Robert E. DeFrancesco, trade counsel to the Petitioner and a partner in the International Trade Practice at Wiley. "The Commerce Department's decision recognizes that foreign governments provide meaningful and anticompetitive support to boost their chassis producersin the case of one Thai company, a subsidiary of a Chinese, state-owned entity." The duties that will be imposed following today's decision are assessed on the importer of record of the merchandise. Duty evasion, absorption, and circumvention are illegal and closely monitored by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, in conjunction with the Commerce Department. For more information, please contact: Robert E. DeFrancesco, III 202-719-7473 [email protected] Laura El-Sabaawi 202-719-7042 [email protected] SOURCE Wiley Rein LLP New brand signals next chapter for firm leading public-private development solutions for California's housing and health infrastructure needs LOS ANGELES, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Community Development Resource Group (CD-RG), a longtime partner to California's public agencies, mission-driven developers and housing advocates, has officially rebranded as Brisa Development Partners (Brisa). The name marks a new chapter for one of the most effective teams working at the intersection of public funding and community development in California. Rendering of Santa Cruz SUD, Courtesy of Brisa Development Partners "Brisa represents an evolution of what we've built: a high-performing team focused on delivering results in complex environments," said Kevin Rodin, founder and president of Brisa Development Partners. "California's challenges when it comes to health and housing require creativity, technical fluency and speed. Our team has a proven ability to deliver on all three." Founded in 2015, Brisa is a California-based developer, consultant and impact multiplier. The firm specializes in unlocking public funding and delivering thoughtful projects of varying scale that meets urgent housing and healthcare needs. With nearly $3 billion in public funding secured and over 150 projects supported across more than 20 counties, Brisa has earned a reputation for helping partners move quickly and strategically, from early-stage vision through occupancy. Brisa leads and supports projects across the full real estate cycle. The firm develops its own affordable housing and health facilities while also partnering with public agencies, nonprofits and other developers to deliver high-impact work. Its services include development consulting, strategic funding stack support, application management for California's most competitive programs (including AHSC, BHCIP, and HCD), and public-private partnership strategy. "We're a small team by design, but we've built systems that allow us to deliver big results," said Frannie Hemmelgarn, Project Director at Brisa. "Whether we're structuring a multi-layered funding stack or helping a city shape a new behavioral health campus, we show up with creativity and the ability to get it done." Notable projects Brisa has supported as development consultant include the Downtown Women's Center in Los Angeles, Crenshaw Crossing in South L.A., Balboa Reservoir in San Francisco, North Berkeley BART in Berkeley, and Library Court in Santa Cruz. The firm is currently co-developing five Project HomeKey sites and two BCHIP mental health facilities, and it continues to expand its development portfolio. Brisa has 170 units under construction as of today, with an additional 480 units set to break ground in the coming months. Its first project to open will be Hub City Heights: with 40 units of Permanent Supportive Housing in Compton, this new community will welcome residents in August 2025. To learn more about Brisa Development Partners and how they're helping communities turn opportunity into impact, visit www.brisa.co. About Brisa Development Partners Brisa Development Partners is a California-based developer, consultant, and impact multiplier specializing in affordable housing and behavioral health facilities. Founded in 2015 as Community Development Resource Group, Brisa has secured nearly $3 billion in public funding and supported more than 150 projects across 20+ counties. The firm provides end-to-end project supportfrom feasibility and funding strategy to application management and development executionwith a focus on helping public agencies and mission-driven organizations navigate complex funding systems and deliver high-impact real estate. Brisa's work is grounded in public-private partnership, systems-level thinking, and a commitment to neighborhood-scale development that creates lasting community value. Follow along at www.brisa.co. Media Contact: Sean Billisitz [email protected] | (574) 298-2712 SOURCE Brisa Development Partners CAMBRIDGE, Mass., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CSP Associates ("CSP"), a leading M&A advisory firm known for its expertise in aerospace, defense, and government services, today announced its acquisition of a majority stake in Tamarack Defense ("TD"), an AI-driven market analytics firm known for building high-quality military equipment forecasts across all international markets for investors, consultancies, and multinational corporations. The move adds elite in-house global forecasting and strategic modeling capabilities to CSP's renowned strategy, forecasting, and commercial diligence platform, and opens a new line of revenue for the firm. "This is about competitive edge and futureproofing CSP's business for the next decade," said Eric Chase, Senior Managing Director, CSP Associates. "Particularly in the age of AI, investment firms and companies competing in the global defense market need high-quality data to make the best decisions. Data is the oil of the 21st century, and Tamarack's industry-leading proprietary data, technology, and forecasting capabilities give CSP's clients and Tamarack's customers a significant competitive advantage." TD's customizable forecasts support strategic positioning, acquisition planning, and new market entry decisions across the defense industrial base. CSP will integrate those tools into both diligence and growth strategy engagements for its clients. Current TD clients can expect greater capabilities and new analytics products from the combined entity. "In an age of constant disruption, our customers, which include well-known defense primes and investors, find that having reliable, independent, and functional third-party data, particularly about the international markets, is incredibly valuable for decision-making." said Theo Egan, Co-Founder, Tamarack Defense. "Joining forces with CSP allows us to better support our quickly growing customer base while scaling our offerings and helping CSP deliver a diligence experience that's faster, smarter, and purpose-built for complex defense and dual-use markets." TD's Co-Founders, Theo Egan and Logan Slone, will rejoin CSP as Managing Directors, after departing the firm in early 2023 to start Tamarack Defense. About CSP Associates: CSP Associates ("CSP") is a leading global provider of strategic and transaction advisory services to corporate clients, private equity sponsors, and institutional lenders active in the aerospace, defense, and government services industries. Established in 1982, CSP has over 40 years of experience in innovating and continuously refining a transaction diligence product that is widely recognized for its objectivity, analytical rigor, and creativity. CSP has supported hundreds of clients across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia in more than 1,500 transaction advisory engagementsrepresenting more than $100 billion of completed transaction enterprise valueand is engaged to support more than 50 transactions each year. About Tamarack Defense: Tamarack Defense is a rapidly growing leader in military program, platform, and equipment forecasting, leveraging proprietary data toolsets, cutting-edge analytical disciplines, and new technologies to improve outcomes across the global defense industry. Tamarack Defense's forecasting services support numerous stakeholders in the market, including investors, consultancies, and multinational corporations. https://www.cspassociates.com SOURCE CSP Associates PORTLAND, Ore., July 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Easyfolk Fest is back for its second annual celebration of Portland's rich music scene, running Thursday, August 7, through Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Portland Playhouse. This year's festival expands to four unique showcases across three days, with performances from some of the most beloved and buzzworthy artists in the region. "This lineup is bursting with heart, harmony, and a little bit of magic," says founder Joe Sanchez. "We can't wait for audiences to experience these artists the way they were meant to be heardlive, loud, and full of love." Festival Schedule Thursday, August 7 7:0010:00 PM Friday, August 8 7:0010:00 PM Saturday, August 9 Matinee: 12:003:00 PM Evening: 7:0010:00 PM (Doors open one hour before each show) Tickets 3-Day Passes and Single-Day tickets are available now at easyfolkmedia.com/fest 2025 Lineup Highlights This year's lineup brings together standout artists from across the folk spectrum. Expect glam-folk whimsy from Ned & Wendy the Band, upbeat swing and Americana from Megan Alder, and road-worn harmony from River Tramps. Falcon Heart delivers high-energy, country-infused revelry, while Valdoria stuns with volcanic vocals and bold lyrical terrain. You'll find soul-soaked, cinematic balladry from Leo Moon Trio, fiddle-forward folk rock from The Prairie Benders, and glittering genre fusion from Glam Country. With heartfelt sets by Nathan Earle, Bobby Jo Valentine, Scott Erdy, and Mahra, every performance offers a fresh take on storytelling and sound. About Easyfolk Fest Easyfolk Fest is a genre-blurring, community-centered music festival based in Portland, Oregon, celebrating the creative pulse of the region through soulful performances and meaningful connections. Showcasing a blend of stylesfrom modern folk and heartfelt Americana to progressive bluegrass and beyondEasyfolk Fest offers an inclusive stage and an inspiring environment where artists and audiences come together in shared joy and discovery. Founded by Joe Sanchez, the festival is a love letter to local talent crafted with care and an open-hearted spirit. To learn more, visit easyfolkmedia.com/fest . Media Contact Joe Sanchez | Easyfolk Media [email protected] easyfolkmedia.com/fest Press + Media Kit: Easyfolk Fest EPK Social Media Assets: Easyfolk Fest Assets SOURCE Easyfolk Media Court denies U.S. motion to dismiss case alleging Corps failed to mitigate potential damage to religious retreat FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A federal judge today ruled that the nation's largest Buddhist organization, Soka Gakkai International-USA (SGI-USA), can proceed with its lawsuit against the Army Corps of Engineers challenging the Corps' massive water reservoir and pumping project that will have a significant adverse impact on SGI-USA's religious retreat and the ability of its members to freely exercise their religious rights. In a 13-page written decision, U.S. District Judge William Dimitrouleas denied the Army Corps' efforts to dismiss the lawsuit filed in December 2024. The lawsuit alleges the Corps failed to adequately evaluate and mitigate the impacts of the massive project on SGI-USA's decades-old religious retreat facility west of Fort Lauderdale. SGI-USA's Florida Nature and Culture Center (FNCC) in West Broward County, founded in 1996, hosts thousands of spiritual members every month for multi-day spiritual retreats. Religious retreat participants come to the FNCC with an expectation of serenity, peacefulness and a welcoming place to engage in their spiritual and religious activities. As part of its own commitment to environmental sustainability, the FNCC has permanently allocated one-third of the property for conservation purposes. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' planned 1,250-acre C-11 Impoundment Project, a 1.5 billion-gallon artificial lake, directly borders the FNCC. SGI-USA and the FNCC said its experts have determined the project will cause at least a decade of substantial adverse impacts during construction, impacts that will then continue permanently during operation. These impacts, which include vibration, dust, changes to groundwater, wetlands and wildlife, will physically damage the FNCC and disrupt and prevent SGI-USA members from using the FNCC to exercise their spiritual and religious beliefs. The Army Corps claimed the SGI-USA and FNCC lawsuit was barred by the statute of limitations, arguing that SGI-USA and FNCC could have filed their case as early as 2012 when the Corps first evaluated the environmental impacts of the project. However, SGI-USA and FNCC successfully argued that the project was not funded by Congress until 2022, and the Corps did not make a final decision to proceed with the project until 2023. The Court also allowed SGI-USA and FNCC to proceed with its claim that the adverse impacts of the Corps' project violate the Religious Freedom Restoration Act by imposing substantial burdens on SGI-USA's members' ability to freely exercise their religious beliefs. In a statement released today, SGI-USA said: Our aim is to force the Corps to do what it knows the law requires it to do: design, construct and operate the Impoundment based on a full, public and transparent evaluation of the Project's impacts on the surrounding environment, particularly on the FNCC, which directly borders the Project. The Corps must take into account the safety and sanctity of our property, environment, the spiritual activities of our members and the broader community. We seek a balanced approach that aligns the environmental goals of the Project with the protection of our religious and spiritual activities. We remain open to constructive dialogue with the Corps to find solutions that preserve the well-being and environmental, spiritual and property rights of our community. The lawsuit is Case 24-CV-62452-WPD. SOURCE Soka Gakkai International-USA TEHRAN, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said on Monday that the country currently has no plan for the resumption of nuclear talks with the United States. He made the remarks at a weekly press conference while commenting on the possibility of resuming the talks on Tehran's nuclear program and the removal of U.S. sanctions. "For now, we have no plan in this regard. We will make our decision whenever Iran's interests call for it," he said. He criticized the U.S. for its role in the war waged on Iran by Israel last month, saying it was "unprecedented" that when two countries were holding negotiations "one side encourages its proxy to conduct a military aggression against the other side and its peaceful nuclear facilities, which were under the International Atomic Energy Agency's round-the-clock inspections." He added that the main prerequisite for any future talks was a change in the U.S. attitude and approach towards the negotiation's principle, stressing that negotiations should not turn into a tool for bullying and intimidation. Israel launched major airstrikes on several areas in Iran on June 13, including nuclear and military sites, followed by U.S. airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites on June 22. After 12 days of fighting, a ceasefire between Iran and Israel was reached on June 24. VANCOUVER, BC, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Finland is the most attractive jurisdiction in the world for mining investment, followed by Nevada and Alaska, according to the Annual Survey of Mining Companies released today by the Fraser Institute, an independent, non-partisan Canadian policy think-tank. "The Fraser Institute's mining survey is the most comprehensive report on not just a jurisdiction's mineral potential, but also government policies that either attract or discourage mining investors," said Elmira Aliakbari, director of the Fraser Institute's Centre for Natural Resource Studies and co-author of the report. This year's report ranks 82 jurisdictions around the world based on their geologic attractiveness (minerals and metals) and government policies that encourage or deter exploration and investment. Rounding out the top five jurisdictions on the overall Investment Attractiveness Index, which includes both mineral endowment and policy, are Wyoming and Arizona. The least-attractive jurisdiction on the Investment Attractiveness Index is Ethiopia, followed by Suriname, Niger, Nova Scotia, and Mozambique. On policies alone, the Republic of Ireland ranks first, while Bolivia ranked last. "A sound, predictable regulatory regime coupled with competitive fiscal policies make a jurisdiction attractive to investors," Aliakbari said. "Policymakers across the globe should understand that mineral deposits alone are not enough to attract investment." Investment Attractiveness Index Most attractive jurisdictions for mining investment Least attractive jurisdictions for mining investment 1) Finland 82) Ethiopia 2) Nevada 81) Suriname 3) Alaska 80) Niger 4) Wyoming 79) Nova Scotia 5) Arizona 78) Mozambique 6) Sweden 77) Madagascar 7) Saskatchewan 76) Bolivia 8) Newfoundland & Labrador 75) Dominican Republic 9) Guyana 74) Guinea (Conakry) 10) Norway 73) Minnesota Follow the Fraser Institute on Twitter | Become a fan on Facebook The Fraser Institute is an independent Canadian public policy research and educational organization with offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal and ties to a global network of think-tanks in 87 countries. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for Canadians, their families and future generations by studying, measuring and broadly communicating the effects of government policies, entrepreneurship and choice on their well-being. To protect the Institute's independence, it does not accept grants from governments or contracts for research. Visit www.fraserinstitute.org SOURCE The Fraser Institute New installation marks FFP's third Spinning Cone Column and first outside Florida, significantly expanding manufacturing capacity INDIANAPOLIS, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida Food Products, LLC (FFP), the world's largest private equity owned natural ingredient supplier, marked a significant milestone with the unveiling of a new Spinning Cone Column (SCC) at its Indianapolis manufacturing facility during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Indiana Governor Mike Braun, FFP team members, and Board members. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Governor Mike Braun, FFP CEO Vince Macciocchi (center), and members of the Executive Leadership Team and Board of Directors cut the ribbon on FFPs third spinning cone column at its Indianapolis production facility. Max Engling Tour: Max Engling, Regional Director for U.S. Senator Jim Banks (center), joins FFP CEO Vince Macciocchi and team members for a tour of the companys Indianapolis facility, standing in front of the newly installed spinning cone column. This marks FFP's third SCC system, demonstrating the company's commitment to geographic diversification, supply chain continuity, and capacity growth. The ceremony included a facility tour and live demonstrations of the advanced extraction system. "This expansion reflects our commitment to delivering superior-quality ingredients with speed, consistency, and care," said FFP's Chief Executive Officer, Vince Macciocchi. "By investing in Indianapolis, we're not only increasing our capacity and responsiveness for customerswe're reinforcing our promise to make clean label ingredients more accessible across the US and internationally." SCC technology uses a fully enclosed process to efficiently extract and preserve the natural flavor, aroma, and beneficial components of tea, botanicals, and coffeekeeping what's real and pure intact. The system delivers high-potency, clean label ingredients that align with rising consumer demand for transparency and authenticity. Governor Mike Braun commended the investment, stating, "We welcome companies like FFP that bring a strong partnership and opportunity to Indiana. This investment not only fuels job creation, it also reinforces Indiana's role in delivering trusted, American-made products that consumers increasingly demand." FFP Chief Operating Officer Ken Simone added, "We're proud to deepen our roots in Indiana. Since launching operations here in 2022, we've more than doubled our workforce and added skilled positions to support the new spinning cone column. We look forward to continuing that momentum by creating additional high-paying jobs as our expansion progresses." In addition to the ribbon-cutting ceremony, FFP welcomed Max Engling, Regional Director for U.S. Senator Jim Banks, for a separate plant tour and discussion on the company's manufacturing capabilities and economic impact. A formal proclamation was also issued by U.S. Congressman Andre Carson, recognizing FFP's investment and contribution to Indiana's clean label ingredient manufacturing sector. FFP's 240,000-square-foot Indianapolis facility is GFSI-certified under the SQF program and Kosher-compliant. With the addition of the SCC, the site now supports expanded advanced manufacturing capabilities, enhancing FFP's reputation for safe, scalable, and consistent clean label ingredient production. About Florida Food Products Founded in 1954, Florida Food Products is the world's largest private equity-owned natural ingredient supplier. FFP sources premium raw materials and produces clean label concentrates, powders, extracts and systems that serve the food and beverage industry. Its portfolio includes natural flavors, coffee, tea, and botanical extracts, functional nutrition, meat cures and accelerators, antioxidants, and antimicrobials. FFP's natural ingredients enhance taste, texture, shelf life, moisture, and color across a broad range of applications. The company operates four state-of-the-art facilities across the U.S. and partners with leading food brands, manufacturers, and foodservice operators. Learn more at www.floridafood.com . SOURCE Florida Food Products Decorated U.S. Army leader brings three decades of military command and strategy to strengthen Quantifind's expanding role in safeguarding America's most critical missions. PALO ALTO, Calif., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Quantifind, the leader in AI-driven risk intelligence solutions, today announced the appointment of Lieutenant General Erik C. Peterson (U.S. Army, Retired) to its advisory board. The addition of General Peterson marks a strategic milestone in Quantifind's deepening commitment to national security, as the company continues to power mission-critical insights for US government agencies. A highly decorated officer, General Peterson retired from active duty after serving more than 35 years in the United States Army. He most recently served as Deputy Chief of Staff, G-8, advising the Army's top leadership on strategy, modernization, and resource integration. His leadership spanned roles in aviation, special operations, and force development, expertise that aligns directly with Quantifind's role supporting rapid threat detection and strategic decision-making at scale. "Quantifind's AI solutions power our mission to protect the defense industrial base from foreign and criminal threats," said Ari Tuchman, CEO and Co-founder of Quantifind. "It is an honor to work with Lieutenant General Peterson, whose operational experience with requirements, material modernization, and supporting supply chains will help us deliver our technology into the critical defense and intelligence workflows in which hidden malign covert networks can be most damaging." Quantifind's AI platform enables real-time discovery and triage of high-risk entities by integrating open-source data and public records. Government agencies use Quantifind to uncover hidden networks, trace illicit flows, and operationalize data in defense of democratic institutions and global stability. "I've spent my career leading warfighters and advising national security leaders to succeed in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment," said Lieutenant General Erik C. Peterson. "Quantifind delivers a capability to address this complex environment and maintain competitive advantagedata-driven insights with accuracy, speed, and scalability. I'm encouraged by forward-leaning technologies such as these as the nation sprints to outpace malign interests." Quantifind has steadily expanded its federal impact through partnerships with federal civilian, defense, and law enforcement agencies. With scalable technology, deep subject-matter expertise, responsive problem-solving, and a commitment to ethical AI, Quantifind is rapidly becoming a trusted partner to those on the front lines of safeguarding national interests. About Quantifind Quantifind is the leader in threat intelligence automation, providing purpose-built solutions that transform how organizations detect and mitigate risk. The Graphyte platform serves as an essential AI co-pilot, delivering real-time, accurate risk assessments by integrating internal data with complex, unstructured public information to uncover hidden threats and reduce false positives with unprecedented accuracy, speed, and scale. This empowers organizations to collaborate with trusted entities, focus on critical risks, and strengthen compliance with greater confidence and precision. Media Contact: Annalisa Camarillo EVP of Marketing [email protected] SOURCE Quantifind DAKAR, Senegal, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- France's colonial legacy came under renewed scrutiny as journalists, historians, and pan-African activists gathered at African Memorial Square in Dakar for a powerful roundtable advocating reparations and economic justice. The event highlighted growing demands for France to take full responsibility for its historical role in Senegal and across West Africa. Babacar Dioh, speaks during the Dakar roundtable on reparations. Organized by advocacy groups including the Association of Descendants of Senegalese Soldiers, the Front for the Withdrawal of French Military Bases (GASSI), and JIF'AFRIK, the roundtable brought together influential voices pushing for reparatory justice and structural transformation. Among the key speakers were Babacar Dioh of the Thiaroye 44 Movementa coalition of descendants of Senegalese tirailleursand Souleymane Jules Diallo, leader of JIF'AFRIK. Discussions centered on two central demands: official reparations for colonial-era injustices and the urgent renegotiation of trade and military agreements that activists say perpetuate economic dependence. "The time for symbolic gestures is over," said Dioh. "We are now filing an official reparations claim and taking concrete steps to hold France accountable." Speakers called for the dismantling of existing neocolonial frameworks, stressing the ecological, financial, and social harm that has endured beyond the colonial period. The roundtable marks a turning point in Dakar's positioning as a hub for coordinated African-led advocacy aimed at restoring historical justice. This event adds momentum to a growing continental movement seeking tangible reparative action from former colonial powers and reinforces the call for equity, autonomy, and acknowledgment of historical truths. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2740080/Dakar_Roundatable.jpg SOURCE Dakar Roundatable Drivers and Fillers Join Growing Fight for Fair Contract, Demand End to Unfair Labor Practices HONOLULU, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Teamsters at Airgas in Honolulu, Hawaii, have joined the nationwide strike following the company's continued unfair labor practices (ULPs) and refusal to bargain in good faith. More than 40 drivers and fillers who deliver industrial, medical, and specialty gases across the Hawaiian Islands have entered the fight alongside fellow Teamsters across the country. "The disrespect our members have seen at the bargaining table is completely unacceptable," said Kevin K. Holu, President of Teamsters Local 996. "This greedy company is going to pay the price. We are proud to join hundreds of Teamsters across the country who are taking on Airgas and demanding what they have earned." Hawaii Teamsters are the latest group to strike Airgas, joining Teamsters with Local 507 in Cleveland and Local 701 in New Jersey who went on strike in June. On Tuesday, the Teamsters extended picket lines to an additional 15 facilities across 11 states. Workers are demanding fair contracts that meet industry standards and an end to the company's ULPs. "We work long hours for this company every day, and all we are asking for is fair pay and decent benefits so we can take care of our families," said Jonathan Kapua, a cryogenic technician at Airgas with 25 years of experience and Local 996 steward. "We do not want to be on strike, but management left us no choice. They have refused to bargain and violated our rights." Airgas is a subsidiary of Air Liquide, a French multinational that reported more than $3.8 billion in profits last year. The company has been hit with multiple ULPs and has stalled negotiations for months. In a disturbing escalation, unidentified chemical agents were released on striking Teamsters in Peoria, Illinois, and Oakland, New Jersey. The use of chemical agents appears to be a potentially deliberate attempt to intimidate and harm workers exercising their rights. "Airgas picked a fight with the Teamsters from across the country, and Hawaii is now part of our fight, too," said Juan Campos, Director of the Teamsters Tankhaul Division and Teamsters International Vice President At-Large. "This company will be held accountable for its greed, its incompetence, and its total disregard for its workforce. Our members will never back down until they get the contracts they deserve." Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters. Contact: Matt McQuaid, (771) 241-0015 [email protected] SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters WALNUT CREEK, Calif., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Heffernan Insurance Brokers, one of the largest full-service, independent insurance brokerage firms in the United States, is excited to announce the opening of its new office in Clearfield, Utah. This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone in Heffernan's growth strategy, allowing the company to better serve its clients in the region with localized expertise and personalized service. The new Utah office will be led by Kyle Corbridge, who has been appointed as the Branch Manager. Kyle brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the insurance industry, ensuring that clients receive the highest level of service and support. "We are thrilled to establish a presence in Utah, a state known for its dynamic business environment and vibrant communities," said F. Michael Heffernan, President and CEO of Heffernan Insurance Brokers. "With Kyle Corbridge at the helm, we are confident in our ability to build strong relationships in the Utah community." The Utah office will offer a comprehensive range of insurance services, covering everything from commercial insurance and personal insurance to risk management solutions. Clients can expect the same high standards of service and expertise that Heffernan Insurance Brokers is known for nationwide. About Heffernan Insurance Brokers Heffernan Insurance Brokers, founded in 1988, is one of the largest independent insurance brokerage firms in the United States, providing comprehensive business insurance, personal insurance, employee benefits, and financial services solutions to a wide range of businesses and individuals. Headquartered in Walnut Creek, Calif., Heffernan has a nationwide presence specializing in customized solutions to serve clients' different needs in virtually every industry. Heffernan has been named on the insurance industry's 'Best Agency to Work For' list and consistently named a 'Top Corporate Philanthropist'. For more information, visit www.heffins.com. License #0564249 SOURCE Heffernan Insurance Brokers The HMI Company (Manitowoc WI) and The PSI Group of Companies (Saskatoon SK) are leveraging their leading technological and industrial strengths to provide the global mining, utilities and strategic infrastructure sectors new, advanced products and associated, state-of-the-art engineering solutions. HMI, an innovation-driven company which formulates and manufactures specialized industrial polyurethane products, and the PSI Group of Companies, a leader in customized engineering solutions for mining and civil engineering sectors, are jointly developing and marketing customized products integrated with advanced engineered systems and specialized training. (Visit www.hmicompany.com and https://psitechnologies.ca) MANITOWOC, Wis. and SASKATOON, SK, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- HMI, a leader in the formulation and manufacturing of polyurethane products for the construction industry, and PSI, known for its expertise in advanced engineering systems in mining and civil infrastructure sectors, are announcing a new strategic alliance that offers specialized products and engineering design solutions to meet the needs of vital sectors of the North American economy. The focus of this alliance is threefold: customized products, advanced engineering solutions and specialized training. This alliance is providing policy makers and the private sector with advanced engineered solutions that enhance productivity, efficiency, sustainability and safety across strategic sectors, including mining, utilities and big infrastructure. This alliance is providing products, services and solutions worldwide. Both firms are highly specialized in their respective sectors and are highly complementary. When integrated, the combined experience, expertise and advanced technologies of PSI and HMI aim to increase global market share through joint solution-oriented systems. HMI President, Jeff Cvetezar, explains: "We are delighted to partner with PSI. The combined research and development power of our two entities will allow for the creation of custom solutions for really complex project challenges; with an emphasis on speed and state-of-the-art quality. We are particularly excited about the opportunity to leverage technology within the PSISuite3D engineering system. It is unmatched in planning and modeling products and projects to meet evolving and urgent industrial and environmental needs." Dr. Curtis Berthelot, P. Eng., President of the PSI Group of Companies, explains: "I am really bullish about this Strategic Alliance with HMI for the benefit of both public policy makers and private sector industries. After testing HMI's products, our specialized laboratory systems reveal that HMI's innovations have unique strength, stiffness, climatic durability, flexibility and resiliency. When combined with our advanced engineered structural systems, the next generation of these products can be a game changer in mining, utilities and strategic infrastructure projects, such as transportation and economic corridors, highways, airport runways as well as railbeds." The combined HMI & PSI technical teams will be developing new products and partnering to establish specialized training programs focused on both public and private entities. Rielle Haichert, P. Eng., PSI Vice President adds, "A primary benefit of this Strategic Alliance to the marketplace will be the creation of a whole new category of expansive products developed through mechanistic engineering. These are focused on geotechnical and geological structural applications. Essentially, these advanced products provide a significant advancement in expansive foam technologies which will assist engineers in designing, building and sustaining enhanced strategic infrastructure, including economic corridors and mines." The HMI & PSI alliance will begin to fulfill its mission by jointly participating in the 79th Midwestern Legislative Conference in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan from July 27-30. At this event involving policymakers, as well as industry leaders from Canada and the USA representatives of both companies will share insights and formalize their alliance. HMI has been providing quality construction material and equipment to the market since 1974. Its customers and its own contracting division have performed hundreds of thousands of successful projects for: government, commercial entities and residential homeowners. The PSI Group of Companies has been serving communities and industries across North America and around the world since 1998. PSI is built on a corporate commitment to scientific and technical innovation for quality designs that are safe and efficient for construction while being environmentally sustainable. PSI continuously develops for sustainable solutions that are socially as well as economically responsible. For Details, Contact: For Details, Contact: Randy DeCoster Hon. Rob Norris HMI PSI Phone 800-626-2467 Phone 306-221-68-58 [email protected] [email protected] SOURCE HMI FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America announced the continuation of its partnership with the UC Irvine Paul Merage School of Business Future Leaders Initiative (FLI). This esteemed program is dedicated to expanding the pipeline of talented leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs in Southern California by investing in today's students. Students attend the Future Leaders Initiative (FLI) at the Paul Merage School of Business at UC Irvine in Irvine, Calif. on July 25, 2025. (Photo/Hyundai) Claudia Marquez, COO, Hyundai Motor America (center) presents faculty and staff of the UC Irvine Paul Merage School of Business with a UCI Foundation donation in Irvine, Calif. on May 9, 2025. (Photo/Hyundai) "Hyundai's partnership with UCI's Future Leaders Initiative is a testament to our dedication to education and sustainable innovation," said Brandon Ramirez, director, corporate social responsibility, Hyundai Motor North America. "By investing in the next generation of leaders and innovators, we are paving the way for a more sustainable future." As part of the partnership, students from over 60 high schools and community colleges across Orange County heard from a Hyundai employee about their automotive journey, Hyundai's electrification goals and investments, and its vision to create a more sustainable future for all. Students also participated in an advanced demonstration of the first-ever 2026 IONIQ 9 3-row electric SUV, giving them a firsthand look at the cutting-edge technology and design. "The Future Leaders Initiative exemplifies our belief that education should transcend the classroom," said Miranda Young, program director, Future Leaders Initiative at the Merage School. "We are intentional about equipping these students with both the practical insights and the personal development skills necessary to lead in the 21st century." The Merage School Future Leaders Initiative provides underserved Southern California students with business education, financial literacy, and career preparation. Through in-person courses, FLI enhances college readiness and supports business, technology, and entrepreneurship careers with UC Irvine's expert faculty and resources. Hyundai Motor America Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company's Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, and several cutting-edge R&D facilities. These operations, combined with those of Hyundai's 850 independent dealers, contribute $20.1 billion annually and 190,000 jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a published economic impact report. For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com. Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok SOURCE Hyundai Motor America Intuit QuickBooks Capital users can now apply for SBA loans through a trusted lending network, powered by iBusiness Funding's LenderAI technology FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- iBusiness Funding, the SMB Financing Technology and Services company, announced today that it is working with Intuit to offer additional funding options to their shared customers. iBusiness Funding already works with Intuit to offer fixed rate conventional business loans1 through Intuit QuickBooks Capital2, and now has expanded this capability to include SBA products available through the iBusiness Funding network of approved SBA lenders. The relationship brings government-backed loan offerings directly into the Intuit QuickBooks Capital Marketplace program, affording small business owners a smart, secure, and seamless SBA funding experience through the integration. SBA loans offer some of the most favorable terms available today: lower rates, longer repayment periods, and more flexible eligibility requirements. Access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers to small business growth. Traditional financing routes often involve a complex application experience, require manual processes, and can be extremely time-consuming for business owners. And while SBA products offer beneficial terms to the business owners, in many cases, similar hurdles arise. Together, iBusiness Funding and Intuit are addressing these challenges head-on, delivering a more seamless experience through QuickBooks, a leading global financial technology solution for businesses. iBusiness Funding is a leading technological innovator in SBA and the broader SMB financing space. The company also recently launched Lendsey AI, an end-to-end, multi-agentic AI Loan Origination Solution, that simplifies the application experience and is backed by enterprise-grade security and compliance protocols to make funding more accurate, personalized, and transparent. "Working with Intuit's QuickBooks Capital makes SBA financing options more visible than ever before," said Kos Joshi, CBO at iBusiness Funding. "By embedding access to SBA loans through iBF's tech platform via QuickBooks, a solution trusted and used by millions of small business owners already, we are excited to help advance government-backed capital to businesses that are historically underserved. In addition to our conventional products, we're now able to facilitate other options to business owners with longer terms, lower rates, and government-backed support. It's a more inclusive path to funding that meets businesses where they are. Together, we're setting a new standard for accessible finance at scale." The integration is now live via the Capital tab in QuickBooks, and with LenderAI powering the experience, small business owners using the Intuit platform can now access iBusiness Funding's network of lenders. Small businesses can see tailored loan offers using financial data already stored in QuickBooks, reducing the need for paperwork and manual entry. This results in a quick and simple lending experience that aligns with the simplicity and ease of use QuickBooks customers expect. "QuickBooks Capital is focused on delivering comprehensive lending solutions that help solve our customers' needs," said Todd Denbo, VP & Commercial Leader, Money Offerings at Intuit. "While we already help facilitate financing for small businesses directly in QuickBooks, our priority is to match businesses with flexible, personalized funding that meets their needs. We've been working with iBusiness Funding for a long time, and expanding our collaboration to include SBA loan options as part of our growing Capital marketplace is an exciting next step." To learn more about the partnership or to join iBusiness Funding's lender network, visit www.ibusinessfunding.com/loan-partnerships. About iBusiness Funding, LLC iBusiness Funding is a leading provider of lending solutions for banks and lenders of all sizes, specializing in SBA lending programs. The company is dedicated to streamlining the business lending process, enabling lenders to efficiently deliver capital to small and medium-sized businesses. iBusiness Funding has helped lenders process over $7 billion in SBA loans to date and handles over 1,200 business loan applications daily. iBusiness Funding is owned by Ready Capital Corporation. 1. Loans are originated by FC Marketplace, LLC (California Financing License No. 6054785, North Dakota Money broker License MB 102840, South Dakota Money; Lending License 1287979.MYL, Vermont Commercial Lender License No. 1287979 CLL, Florida Consumer Company License CF9901099, Nevada Installment Loan; Company License No. IL11154 and IL11155). 2. QuickBooks Capital is licensed as Intuit Financing Inc. (NMLS #1136148) Intuit Financing Inc. is a licensed broker in states that require a license. Our service is limited to commercial or business loans only. State licenses include: CA #6054856, NM #01899, ND #MB102690, RI Licensed Loan Broker #20153121LB, VT #LSO-1136148, VT #LSO-1136148-1 Partner loans are made or arranged pursuant to their applicable lending license(s). SOURCE iBusiness Funding Australian baby sleepwear brand, ergoPouch, launches innovative monitor with integrated Smart TOG Guide LOS ANGELES, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Australia's trusted baby sleepwear brand, ergoPouch, proudly announces the launch of its latest innovation: the Drift Home Baby Monitor with Smart TOG Guide. Merging elegant design with functional technology, Drift Home offers parents more than just a connection; it delivers confidence, calm, and smart support at bedtime. Drift Home - What to Wear Guide With over 15 years of experience pioneering safe sleep solutions, ergoPouch created Drift Home to address common challenges in the early years of parenting. The device integrates intuitive monitoring with the brand's globally trusted What to Wear (W2W) sleepwear guide, helping parents dress their baby appropriately based on room temperature. It's the only monitor to combine real-time environmental insights with evidence-based sleepwear recommendations. "Drift Home empowers parents to feel confident at bedtime with real-time guidance, helping them dress their baby safely for sleep while protecting their privacy, all in one beautifully designed device." says Gabrielle Seely, US Marketing Manager at ergoPouch. Key Features: Built-in Smart TOG Dressing Guide: Offers real-time, personalized recommendations on how to dress your baby for sleep, based on the room temperature, embedded with ergoPouch's globally trusted "What to Wear" (W2W) Guide. Wi-Fi Free Technology: Keeps your family's data private while offering peace of mind. All-in-One Sleep Solution: Combines intuitive monitoring, temperature sensing, and safe sleep guidance in one device. More than just a monitor, Drift Home fits seamlessly into the ergoPouch sleep ecosystem. When used with the brand's TOG-rated sleep sacks and rompers, it creates a full-circle solution for healthy, safe sleep routines from newborn through toddlerhood. Availability Drift Home Baby Monitor is available from July 30th, 2025. RRP: $329.95 ergopouch.com Target.com (from end of August Amazon.com (from end of August) About ergoPouch ergoPouch is dedicated to creating innovative, safe, and sustainable sleep solutions for families. From award-winning sleepwear to smart tools like the Drift Home Baby Monitor, the brand continues to empower parents with products that combine science, simplicity, and style. Media Contact Michael Douglas [email protected] SOURCE ergoPouch SOFIA, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Only 13 percent of adult Bulgarians actively use artificial intelligence (AI) applications such as ChatGPT and Gemini, according to a nationally representative survey released on Tuesday. The survey, conducted by Alpha Research agency in early July, found that 31 percent of respondents only use AI occasionally, while 56 percent do not use AI. AI usage in Bulgaria reflects a significant generational and educational divide, Alpha Research noted. One in three respondents aged 18 to 29 said they used AI tools actively, while 81 percent of those over the age of 65 do not use AI at all. Educational background plays an even more decisive role. Among those with higher education, 62 percent reported using AI while 38 percent did not. In contrast, among respondents with a lower educational level, only 21 percent reported using AI, while 79 percent did not. The survey also explored public perception of AI's potential impact. Thirty-six percent of respondents believed AI would help humanity, while 32 percent saw it as a threat. Eleven percent said AI would have no impact, and 21 percent remained undecided. Bulgaria has been active in developing AI technologies in Eastern Europe. In April 2022, the Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT) was founded under Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski." In November last year, INSAIT unveiled three AI models for the Bulgarian language, making Bulgaria the first European Union country to launch state-funded AI technology specifically designed for its native language. BETHESDA, Md., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kalibri announced the launch of Hummingbird Market, a next-generation hotel market intelligence platform designed to help owners, operators, developers, and investors make smarter, faster decisions in an increasingly complex hospitality landscape. Built for today's high-stakes environment, the platform provides real-time insights that reveal market dynamics often missed by legacy data tools. Kalibri: Introducing Hummingbird Market Unlike legacy solutions that offer costly high-level snapshots, Hummingbird Market is purpose-built for discoverydelivering clear, detailed, and actionable insights to drive confident investment decisions. The platform offers highly visual, granular intelligence across 334 U.S. markets and 975 submarkets, including deep views into occupancy, ADR, RevPAR, rate segmentation, and length-of-stay patterns. Users can quickly assess market momentum, understand demand drivers, and translate performance data into actionable strategy. "Hummingbird Market delivers a level of clarity and context that simply hasn't existed before, giving our customers the confidence to act faster and invest smarter," said Cindy Estis Green, Co-founder and CEO of Kalibri. Early reactions from the industry have been enthusiastic. "I'm very happy. There is a need for this product that is not out there," said Ryan Battles, Development Lead at Choice Hotels. "Kalibri is very innovative and understands this space better than anyone." "The detailed market insights in such a digestible format allow for quick analysis," said Jeremy Gilston, Vice President at Woodworth Core Group. "This will be especially helpful as we prepare for site visits and field work, giving us an upfront understanding of a market and enabling deeper questions on the ground." Key features of Hummingbird Market include: Interactive heat map visualization across all U.S. markets and submarkets, sortable by location type, chain scale, and class Proprietary growth index to quickly pinpoint emerging opportunities Detailed segmentation analysis, rate category breakdowns, and extended stay performance insights Historical and current month performance data to support smarter resource allocation Hummingbird Market is the first in a series of Kalibri innovations aimed at reshaping how the industry discovers, evaluates, and acts on growth opportunities. To request a demo or learn more, visit kalibrilabs.com/hummingbird-market . Kalibri is a data and technology company advancing profitability in the hospitality industry. As the creator of the first Hospitality Profit Platform, Kalibri equips hotels with the intelligence and tools to grow cash flow, improve commercial performance, and increase asset value. To schedule a briefing or learn about Kalibri's Profit Platform, visit www.kalibrilabs.com or contact [email protected] SOURCE Kalibri Labs, LLC Music Legends Wynonna Judd and Steve Earle Also Added to Historic Food and Music Event Roster, Scheduled for Sept. 20 in Minneapolis MINNEAPOLIS, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- 2025 Country Music Hall of Fame electee Kenny Chesney is set to make his fourth Farm Aid appearance at this year's annual music and food festival at Huntington Bank Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 20. Wynonna Judd and Steve Earle have also joined the all-star lineup, the organization revealed today. "We're excited to have Kenny Chesney back on the Farm Aid stage this year," said Jennifer Fahy, co-executive director of Farm Aid. "He's one of many artists who have returned to Farm Aid, generously donating their travel and performances to raise awareness about the family farmers who grow good food for all of us. Kenny's appearance, along with the addition of music legends Wynonna Judd and Steve Earle, will make this an unforgettable anniversary event." Chesney, an eight-time Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year award winner, is one of America's biggest concert draws. Farm Aid will mark his only 2025 concert performance outside his recently wrapped Sphere residency. Judd is one of the most decorated female artists in country music history, with 19 No. 1 singles and an induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Earle, who became a member of the Grand Ole Opry this year, is no stranger to the Farm Aid stage; this year will be his ninth appearance since joining the inaugural event in 1985. Together, they join the star-studded Farm Aid 40 lineup, which features Farm Aid board members Willie Nelson, Neil Young (and the Chrome Hearts), John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews (with Tim Reynolds), and Margo Price, as well as Billy Strings, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Trampled by Turtles, Waxahatchee, Eric Burton of Black Pumas, Jesse Welles, Madeline Edwards, and Wisdom Indian Dancers. Tickets for Farm Aid's 40th anniversary music and food festival are available for purchase at farmaid40.org. Ticket prices range from $101 to $390 (fees included, not sales tax). For venue information, visit farmaid.org/festival/venue-information. More details are also available at farmaid.org/festival. For festival and 40th anniversary updates, follow Farm Aid on Facebook (facebook.com/farmaid), Instagram (instagram.com/farmaid), X (@FarmAid), Bluesky (@farmaid.org) and Threads (threads.com/@farmaid). Festivalgoers are encouraged to use the hashtags #FarmAid40 and #Road2FarmAid40 to join the conversation on social media. Farm Aid's mission is to build a vibrant, family farm-centered system of agriculture in America. Farm Aid artists and board members Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews and Margo Price host an annual festival to raise funds to support Farm Aid's work with family farmers and to inspire people to choose family farm food. Since 1985, Farm Aid, with the support of the artists who contribute their performances each year, has raised more than $85 million to support programs that help farmers thrive, expand the reach of the Good Food Movement, take action to change the dominant system of industrial agriculture and promote food from family farms. **Editors, Producers and Photographers Note: Advance credentials are required for all media to attend Farm Aid 40. Please visit farmaid.org/media by Monday, Sept. 8, to learn about these requirements and apply. Media can download official Farm Aid photos and videos at farmaid.org/media. SOURCE Farm Aid New preliminary research supported by Kinder at the Institute for the Science of Early Years (ISEY) at the University of East London explores how play ignites language skills, builds emotional connection, and bridges family disconnect To underpin its global Value of Play initiative, Kinder has convened a panel of leading academic and clinical experts to research how play supports active learning and development LUXEMBOURG, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In countries across the world, as parents will be preparing for the school holidays ahead, Kinder is releasing findings of new preliminary research conducted by the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London (UEL), which reveals the extraordinary power of shared play in strengthening family bonds. Supported by Kinder, one of the most beloved Ferrero brands, this study used state-of-the-art wearable technology worn by children and family members to capture real-time emotional and physical dynamics during in-home play sessions. The research explores how simple moments of play spark joy, encourage language, reduce stress and nurture emotional wellbeing. "Our early studies reveal a striking pattern: many families often share the same physical space, but mentally they are miles apart - one child immersed in a video game, another focused on a toy, and a third lost in drawing. While solitary play has important benefits for children's independence and creativity, our research shows how shared play can weave families into a unified dynamic. Through shared play, we see family relationships come alive." said Sam Wass, Director of the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London, "Our research is looking at the ways play encourages children to form deeper bonds with their siblings and parents, leading to more connected speech patterns and movement patterns within families. Even more remarkable, our research suggests that play might affect the synchronization of families' moods and stress levels, highlighting play's powerful role in emotional connection and collective well-being. I'm looking forward to seeing how Kinder's ongoing research with the Value of Play panel will continue to unearth new insights and areas for exploration." These initial results pave the way for further analysis by researchers at the University of East London and Kinder. Their continued work will explore how joint play influences children's long-term emotional well-being and stress regulation by strengthening inter-connectedness within families. Kinder Value of Play panel: ongoing global research A panel of leading academic and clinical experts has been established to look into the benefits of play in childhood development. For the past year, four internationally recognised experts have been conducting independent research studies on how spontaneous and joyful play contributes to children's growth with a particular emphasis on emotional and social development, as well as imagination. The Value of Play panellists are: Sam Wass , Director of the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London , Director of the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of Dr Elizabeth Kilbey , Consultant in Clinical Psychology , Consultant in Clinical Psychology Victoria Murphy , Professor of Applied Linguistics and Director of Department of Education at the University of Oxford , Professor of Applied Linguistics and Director of Department of Education at the Lynn Ang, Professor of Early Childhood Education, University College London By promoting the importance of play, Kinder aims to foster a culture where play is valued and prioritised. "At Kinder, we aim at contributing to a society that values time spent in play. We are captivated by the transformative power of play, its ability to foster children's development joyfully and its role in strengthening family bonds. This new global initiative fills me with pride, as it deepens Kinder's collaboration with experts within this field" said Emiliano Laricchiuta, Global President of Kinder at Ferrero Group. "Together, we will continue to delve into the profound benefits of play on early childhood development. The research insights will be available for parents and families and will also guide the development of our toys and play experiences to be engaging and fun but also rooted in scientific insights. This way, both children and parents can enjoy and benefit from play in ways that are backed by research." Additional research findings from the expert panel will be released later in 2025 and into 2026 and made available on Kinder.com. Upcoming research includes: The Power of Play (PoP) Study: Understanding the Role and Value of Play in Supporting Early Learning and Development, a systematic review and qualitative research conducted by University College London, Institute of Education. The research explores how play especially loose-part play and play interactions support early learning, with a focus on social and emotional development. Understanding the Role and Value of Play in Supporting Early Learning and Development, a systematic review and qualitative research conducted by University College London, Institute of Education. The research explores how play especially loose-part play and play interactions support early learning, with a focus on social and emotional development. Young children's learning through digital technology, including the role of AI Insights from the LiFT project (Learning for Families Through Technology). The partnership between Ferrero International, Gameloft and the Department of Education at the University of Oxford is now in its sixth year, using Kinder's Applaydu platform as a research tool to explore how digital technology and mobile applications can support children's learning with a focus on creativity and literacy. For more information please click here. Notes to Editors About Ferrero Ferrero began its journey as a pastry shop in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world's largest sweet-packaged food companies, with much loved brands sold in more than 170 countries. The Ferrero Group brings joy to people around the world with much-loved products including Nutella, Kinder, Tic Tac, and Ferrero Rocher. About 47,000 employees are passionate about helping people celebrate life's special moments. The Ferrero Group's family culture, now in its third generation, is based on dedication to quality and excellence, heritage and a commitment to the planet and communities in which we operate. To receive the latest news and stories, subscribe to our newsletter here. For more information, please visit www.ferrero.com About Kinder Chocolate The Kinder brand was founded in 1968 and is inspired by bringing small but special moments to everyday life. Kinder creates innovative products made for sharing, family and togetherness across all ages. Kinder products include Kinder Surprise, Kinder Chocolate and Kinder Bueno. About ISEY (The Institute for the Science of Early Years) The Institute for the Science of Early Years (ISEY) is based in East London, in one of the most socio-demographically diverse regions in the world. We have developed innovative, world-leading methods to study how early environments shape early development. We use these insights to provide consultancy, training, and policy advice. About the University of East London (UEL) Founded in 1898, the University of East London is a careers-led university at the heart of London's Docklands, preparing students for the jobs of the future. UEL is committed to driving positive change in its local and global communities. SOURCE Ferrero BEIJING, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- At the inaugural China Forum of the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI), founded by HM King Charles III, Wang Yuefeng, Chairman of Liyu Group, delivered a compelling vision for the future of global energyone where innovation, efficiency, and sustainability drive profitability and long-term growth. Wang Yuefeng, Chairman of LiYu Group 1051753757918__pic_hd In his speech, "Powering the FutureElectrification & the Integration of Generation, Grid, Load, and Storage," Chairman Wang outlined how LiYu Group is leading the charge in distributed energy solutions, offering businesses a competitive edge in the accelerating energy transition. The Global Energy Shift: A Trillion Dollar Opportunity Chairman Wang emphasized that electricity's share in global energy consumption is surging from 30% toward 70%, creating unprecedented opportunities for forward-thinking enterprises. To capitalize on this shift, LiYu Group combines high-efficiency gas engine technology (4.2 kWh per m of natural gas) with cutting-edge distributed energy systems, already worked with 20+ countries and regions. Three-Source Strategy: Profitability Meets Sustainability Liyu's Three-Source Application Strategy redefines energy generation by maximizing cost efficiency and decarbonization: Eco-Source: Turn waste industrial gas into profit , covering 30% of corporate energy needs with zero additional fuel costs. Turn , covering with zero additional fuel costs. Clean Source: Near-zero emissions from fossil fuels like methane, ensuring compliance with tightening global regulations. from fossil fuels like methane, ensuring compliance with tightening global regulations. Renewable Source: Future-proof investments in hydrogen, methanol, and ammoniascalable, sustainable, and subsidy-ready. 2025: LiYu's Global Partnership Expansion "We're not just selling technologywe're building alliances," declared Chairman Wang. In 2025, LiYu will ramp up support for international partners, delivering high-margin, low-risk energy solutions tailored for industrial and commercial users. Call to Action for Business Leaders: "Join us in shaping the energy landscape of tomorrow. Let's turn sustainability into your next competitive advantage." Wang Yuefeng, Chairman, LiYu Group Why This Matters for Your Business: Cut energy costs with ultra-efficient distributed power. with ultra-efficient distributed power. Future-proof operations against carbon taxes and supply chain demands. against carbon taxes and supply chain demands. Unlock new revenue from waste-to-energy and clean tech incentives. Connect with Liyu's Global Team to explore partnership opportunities at [email protected] Or https://www.liyupower.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2739890/1061753757930__pic_hd.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2739891/1051753757918__pic_hd.jpg Cox Enterprises taps accomplished marketing strategist and visionary leader to lead its conservation-focused outdoor company, Loop Tackle ATLANTA, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Cox Enterprises today announced the appointment of Jim Coates as chief executive officer of Loop Tackle, a global leader in elite fly-fishing equipment and conservation-focused outdoor gear. He succeeds Gordon Sim, who led the company for more than 12 years and will transition into the new role of chief conservation officer. In this position, Sim will continue to advance Loop Tackle's strategic vision and deepen its mission to protect wild fish in wild places. From left: Gordon Sim and Jim Coates This leadership transition comes as Loop Tackle enters an exciting new chapter under Cox Enterprises, which acquired the company in the fall of 2024 as part of its broader investment strategy in sustainable businesses and technologies. Loop Tackle's commitment to protecting wild fish populations and pristine rivers aligns closely with Cox's mission to build a better future through environmental stewardship and innovation. "Jim has already demonstrated a passion for the business and a remarkable talent for leading the organization's focus on innovation and new product development," said Alex Taylor, chairman and CEO of Cox Enterprises. "We want Loop to lead the market in innovation and in connecting customers with more experiences deeper into nature. He and Gordon will work well together." With broad experience in sales and marketing, Jim Coates brings a unique combination of operational excellence and brand leadership. Before joining Loop Tackle as president and COO in 2024, he worked as a consultant and held leadership roles at VELUX, where he focused on creating better living environments for people around the world. "I'm honored to lead a company whose heritage is so deeply rooted in environmental respect and outdoor passion," said Coates. "We'll continue to push boundaries in fly-fishing innovation while doubling down on our mission to protect the rivers and wild fish populations that inspire everything we do." Under Sim's leadership, Loop Tackle expanded its global reach, built lasting relationships within the conservation and angling communities, and became synonymous with performance, craftsmanship, and ecological responsibility. In his new role as chief conservation officer, Sim will continue to shape Loop Tackle's long-term strategy and mentor the next generation of leaders. "The strength of Loop lies not just in our gear, but in the community that surrounds it," said Sim. "Together, we've built something enduring, and I look forward to deepening our impact as we continue to protect and preserve the waters that bind us all." Founded in Sweden in 1979 by Christer Sjoberg and Tony Karpestam, Loop Tackle has spent decades cultivating a passionate global community of anglers who share a reverence for wild places. Its gear is designed for performance and purpose, helping people connect more deeply with nature and encouraging them to become stewards of the environment. Today, the brand is focused on driving growth in the U.S. and abroad, following the recent launch of its colored Classic reels and with a number of exciting new products in development. Cox Enterprises' acquisition of Loop Tackle reflects the company's commitment to sustainable growth and innovation. As part of its long-term environmental goals, such as achieving carbon and water neutrality by 2034, Cox continues to seek investments that promote environmental wellness and community well-being. Learn more about Loop Tackle: looptackle.com About Loop Tackle Loop Tackle crafts expert fly-fishing gear for adventure in wild places. Its precise Scandinavian designs reflect the company's belief that when nature is personal, protecting it is instinctual. Founded in 1983 in Nordic waters teeming with wild salmon, the company pioneered innovations like the large arbor reel and the underhand cast, and pushed the boundaries of angling experiences into far flung places from Labrador to Tierra del Fuego. As part of the Cox family of businesses, Loop Tackle is crafting more of the innovative gear Loop anglers appreciate with increasing sustainability for a bigger purpose. To learn more, visit looptackle.com. About Cox Enterprises Cox Enterprises is dedicated to empowering people to build a better future for the next generation. Cox is a leader in the broadband, automotive, and media industries, as well as a leading investment platform with strategic positions in emerging technologies driving the future of agriculture, renewable energy and public sector software. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Cox is a global company with $23 billion in annual revenues and a proud history of over 125 years. To learn more about Cox and its commitment to its people, planet and communities, visit coxenterprises.com. SOURCE Cox Enterprises Disturbing Footage Linked to AEON Supplier Sparks Global Consumer Demand for Change NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Led by the Open Wing Alliance (OWA), a coalition of 95 organizations established by The Humane League, the investigation exposed footage directly linked to an AEON egg supplier. AEON Co., Ltd, one of Asia's largest holding companies, is under scrutiny after being linked to abuse in the largest-ever global investigation into egg farms in 37 countries. The footage reveals caged conditions inside AEON's supply chain, including: Initiated by The Humane League, the Open Wing Alliance brings 90+ member organizations together to create a unified front in our goal to end the abuse of chickens worldwide. (PRNewsfoto/The Open Wing Alliance) Piles of dead hens on facility floors Hens crammed into filthy, overcrowded cages Birds with feather loss and untreated wounds Rotting carcasses alongside live animals Suffering animals with injuries and illness, including rectal prolapses Waste, poor ventilation, and unsanitary conditions The investigation, conducted in collaboration with We Animals and Reporters for Animals, spans 37 countries and exposes the cruelty of caged egg production. AEON is one of several companies named in the investigation as continuing to source eggs from these dangerous systems, despite consumer concern, public health risks, and an industry shift toward more humane practices. "This goes beyond animal crueltyit's a matter of public trust," said Jonathon Tree, Asia-Pacific Regional Manager, OWA. "Consumers and investors are demanding transparency, and AEON's inadequate response shows just how out of step the company is with global expectations." Other global companies like Kewpie, Toridoll, and Nestle have adopted cage-free policies across all markets. AEON continues to profit from sourcing eggs from hens confined in cages and has no public commitment to eliminate them. "This investigation tells the story of billions of birds confined in human systems around the globe," said Lisa Amerongen, Managing Director of We Animals. "The footage captured in several countries, including Japan, speaks for itself: systemic neglect, normalized cruelty, and an industry stuck in the past. This story isn't just about eggs. It's about truth, transparency, and the cost of convenience." With the footage viewed by millions and covered by over 150 media outlets globally, pressure is on AEON to respond. The OWA urges the company to immediately publish a global, time-bound cage-free commitment in line with increasing animal welfare expectations and international food safety standards. For information, visit RealCostofEggs.com. View footage and raw footage from AEON's supplier. Explore the press kit and visit OpenWingAlliance.org. Media Contact: Karen Hirsch [email protected] 678-469-8675 SOURCE The Open Wing Alliance CLEARWATER, Fla., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Physician Partners of America (PPOA) has announced the opening of its newest interventional pain management clinic in Clearwater, Florida. The clinic is located at 2730 McMullen Booth Rd, Ste 202, Clearwater, FL 33761. Dr. Wladislaw Fedoriw began seeing patients on Monday, July 21, 2025. 2730 McMullen Booth Rd, Ste 202, Clearwater, FL 33761 The new facility offers advanced interventional treatments designed to reduce the need for opioids while helping patients regain function and improve their quality of life. Services include minimally invasive procedures for neck, back, and joint pain, as well as other chronic pain conditions. "Expanding into the Clearwater area allows us to bring Physician Partners of America's high standard of care to even more patients who need relief from chronic pain," said Josh Helms, CEO of Physician Partners of America. "We are committed to providing effective, minimally invasive solutions close to home, helping patients reclaim their lives with compassion and expertise." The Clearwater clinic will offer a wide range of advanced interventional pain management services, tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. Make an appointment by calling 800-400-PPOA or click http://physicianpartnersofamerica.com/location/florida-fl/clearwater/. About PPOA: Physician Partners of America (PPOA) is a national healthcare organization headquartered in Tampa Florida, focused on strengthening the doctor-patient relationship and improving patient outcomes. PPOA and its affiliates share a common vision to ensure the well-being of patients and provide its physician partners the opportunity to focus on the practice of medicine. This model allows physicians to be physicians, caring about patients and their needs versus the ever-complex administrative requirements. For more information about Physician Partners of America, visit ppoamedical.com. SOURCE Physician Partners of America FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pier Sixty-Six has selected Tambourine , the Fort Lauderdale-headquartered digital marketing technology company serving hotels, resorts, and tourism destinations worldwide, to spearhead the digital marketing initiatives for the property's multi-billion-dollar redevelopment, located on 32 waterfront acres at the gateway to the beach in the prime Harbor Beach district of Fort Lauderdale. Pier Sixty-Six Selects Tambourine to Lead Digital Marketing Strategy for Multi-Billion-Dollar Redevelopment With Pier Sixty-Six's recent re-opening in early 2025, Tambourine developed and launched a series of captivating websites, supported by targeted paid media campaigns, to give travelers an inside look at the revitalized and picturesque waterfront property. The websites showcase the resort's stunning guest rooms, expansive 40,000+ square feet of versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, full-service spa, diverse dining outlets, world-class marina, and luxury residences. "Since the 1960s, Pier Sixty-Six has been an icon in our hometown of Fort Lauderdale. Our commitment is not just to preserve the resort's legacy but to elevate it during its next chapter in a way that continues to resonate with visitors for decades to come," said Rafael Cardozo, CEO at Tambourine. "We are honored to be part of Pier Sixty-Six's transformative journey." Both the physical revitalization and the digital branding transformation mark a significant milestone in the history of Pier Sixty-Six. "We have unveiled a refreshed and reimagined experience for our guests, blending modern luxury with the rich heritage of an iconic Fort Lauderdale destination," said Brett Boreing, Executive Director of Sales & Marketing at Pier Sixty-Six. Pier Sixty-Six and Tambourine have maintained an ongoing partnership since 2018. About Pier Sixty-Six One of South Florida's most storied properties, Pier Sixty-Six has been transformed by Tavistock Development Company as the social harbor of Fort Lauderdale. Set on 32 waterfront acres along the Intracoastal Waterway, the new Pier Sixty-Six is now open, including a renovated world-class resort with 325 guest rooms and suites, 12 dining and lounge destinations, Zenova Spa & Wellness, which spans 13,000 square feet and boasts floor-to-ceiling treatment rooms and the region's first snow room and ceremonial sauna; 40,000 square feet of event space and anchored by the property's iconic, spire-topped tower; a marina promenade featuring a curated mix of restaurants, retailers and offices; and the first residential offerings at Pier Sixty-Six featuring 88 luxury condominiums and resort residences. The 164-slip Marina remains open throughout construction and continues to be a host site for the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and home of the Superyacht Village. For more information, visit PierSixtySix.com. About Tambourine Tambourine is the global leader in hotel marketing technology, delivering integrated solutions that drive direct revenue and solve the industry's toughest commercial challenges. With a product suite spanning sales, marketing, revenue, and now reservations, the company is known for pairing best-in-class service with a design-led approachsolving complex problems with elegant, high-performing solutions. Trusted by hotel brands in 47 countries, Tambourine continues to set the standard for innovation and results in hospitality. Visit tambourine.com for more information. Press Contact: Hannah Trefry, Director of Corporate Marketing [email protected] SOURCE Tambourine YOKOHAMA, Japan, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pivotal Trend Service Co., Ltd. (PTS), a Japan-based infrastructure and digital asset firm, today announced that pre-sales for its flagship product, the Pivotal Mining Note (PMN), have exceeded $1 million, marking a key milestone in its mission to offer secure and compliant Bitcoin exposure through real-world infrastructure. PMN is a financial product backed by Bitcoin mining infrastructure, designed to help long-term investors accumulate BTC through regulated, professionally managed mining operations without needing to trade or time the market. The product is backed by a 3-years hashrate contract, reflecting the operational stability and telecom-grade reliability that PTS brings from over a decade of infrastructure experience. "PMN is a new kind of digital asset a compliant security token that directly reflects Bitcoin mining returns," said Doer Qu, CEO of PTS. "It's produced, delivered, and settled in Bitcoin, all on-chain. By embedding real-world mining infrastructure into token design, we created a native crypto asset that brings clarity and discipline into an otherwise volatile space. Surpassing $1 million in pre-sales with strong support from leaders in the VC community confirms that serious investors are ready for a smarter way to accumulate Bitcoin." The milestone comes at a time when public companies across Japan and the globe are increasingly adding Bitcoin to their balance sheets a signal of growing institutional confidence in Bitcoin's role as a long-term store of value. Against this backdrop, PTS aims to provide both institutional and individual investors with a disciplined, infrastructure-backed path to accumulate Bitcoin over time. PMN offers a way to participate in Bitcoin's value growth through mining economics, rather than short-term speculation turning volatility into opportunity, and complexity into clarity. Net proceeds are distributed directly in Bitcoin, creating a straightforward and investor-friendly structure. The PMN offering is structured to meet the requirements of U.S. securities regulations, including Regulation D (506c) for accredited investors in the United States and Regulation S for non-U.S. investors. Designed with a cross-border framework in mind, PMN combines U.S.-based mining infrastructure with strategic leadership from Japan making it one of the first mining-backed investment products to align telecom-grade operational discipline with globally compliant tokenized finance. This milestone highlights a growing appetite for real-world, long-term Bitcoin strategies especially among those seeking alternatives to market volatility and speculation. About Pivotal Trend Service Co., Ltd. (PTS) PTS is a Japan-based infrastructure and digital asset firm with over 10 years of operational experience in telecom-grade service delivery. In 2024, PTS extended its capabilities into regulated digital asset structures, including Bitcoin mining and tokenized infrastructure products. Its mission is to build compliant and stable bridges between real-world infrastructure and next-generation asset ownership. For more information, please visit Pivotal Trend Service. Follow us: CONTACT: [email protected] SOURCE Pivotal Trend Service Co., Ltd. Specialized page generation tool captures competitor traffic through targeted content SINGAPORE, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Most SEO tools overwhelm marketers with data but fail to deliver actionable results. SEOPage.ai takes a different approach by focusing on strategic page creation that directly intercepts competitor traffic and captures industry-specific keywords. Our platform helps businesses expand their digital footprint with purpose-built pages designed to rank. Strategic Page Generation SEOPage.ai Transforms Strategic Traffic Acquisition Traditional SEO requires endless keyword research and competitor analysis with uncertain outcomes. SEOPage.ai streamlines this process by identifying high-potential page types and automatically generating complete, SEO-optimized content. Our platform analyzes what's working in your industry and creates targeted pages that address specific search intents. The result? Pages that rank faster and capture traffic your competitors thought was secure. Specialized Page Types Our platform focuses on three high-converting page types with proven traffic potential: Alternative Pages (https://seopage.ai/alternativepage) Analyze competitors and generate pages that intercept their keyword traffic. These pages position your product as the superior alternative, capturing users actively looking for options. Best Pages (https://seopage.ai/bestpage) Compare 10+ competitors simultaneously across multiple dimensions. These comprehensive comparison pages attract users in research mode and establish your brand as an industry authority. FAQ Pages Identify product and industry pain points to create question-answer content that aligns perfectly with modern search patterns. These pages are optimized for AI search discovery and recommendations. End-to-End Implementation We handle everything from sitemap planning to complete page generation and coding. No technical expertise required just publish and start capturing traffic. Performance Tracking Monitor which pages are driving traffic and conversions with straightforward metrics that show real business impact. Built for Results Whether you're a growing business or established brand, our platform delivers pages designed to rank and convert. SEOPage.ai integrates seamlessly with your existing tech stack and marketing workflows. Unlike generic content tools, we focus exclusively on page types with proven traffic potential. This targeted approach means faster results and higher ROI from your SEO efforts. Our users consistently report traffic gains within weeks of implementing our specialized pages, often capturing positions previously held by competitors. Industry-Focused Approach We built SEOPage.ai after seeing businesses struggle with generic SEO tools that weren't designed for strategic traffic acquisition. Our platform specifically targets competitor vulnerabilities and industry opportunities. Our approach is data-driven but practical. We identify exactly where your competitors are vulnerable and create pages specifically designed to outrank them on high-value terms. The result is measurable traffic growth from day one. About SEOPage.ai Founded by a team of SEO practitioners and digital marketers who were frustrated with existing solutions, SEOPage.ai was born from real-world experience in the trenches of search marketing. Our team has spent years manually creating pages that capture traffic, giving us unique insights into what works. Our vision is to democratize strategic SEO by making sophisticated traffic acquisition techniques accessible to businesses of all sizes. We believe that every company deserves the opportunity to compete for valuable search traffic, regardless of their technical resources or marketing budget. "We've built SEOPage.ai to solve the problems we faced ourselves as marketers," says Joey.Z, the Product Owner at SEOPage.ai. "After years of manually creating alternative pages, best-of lists, and FAQ content, we developed a system that makes this process efficient and accessible to everyone." Conclusion If you're tired of SEO strategies that deliver minimal results, SEOPage.ai offers a focused alternative. We help you identify and exploit traffic opportunities through strategic page creation, giving you a direct path to capturing competitor traffic. Press Contact: Joey.Z 13075335946 https://seopage.ai/ SOURCE SEOPage.ai Contestants from Kenya pose for a group photo after the opening ceremony of the 10th edition of the Africa Tech Challenge (ATC), in Nairobi, capital of Kenya, July 28, 2025. The event, sponsored by Chinese firm AVIC International, officially commenced here on Monday, reaffirming efforts to equip African youth with practical, market-ready technical skills. Hosted by Kenya's Ministry of Education, AVIC Innovation Holding Limited, and the China Education Association for International Exchange, the initiative features 142 teams comprising 568 participants from 12 African countries. (Xinhua/Yang Guang) NAIROBI, July 28 (Xinhua) -- The 10th edition of the Africa Tech Challenge (ATC), sponsored by Chinese firm AVIC International, officially commenced on Monday in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, reaffirming efforts to equip African youth with practical, market-ready technical skills. Hosted by Kenya's Ministry of Education, AVIC Innovation Holding Limited, and the China Education Association for International Exchange, the initiative features 142 teams comprising 568 participants from 12 African countries. This year's event includes a month-long training phase from Monday to Aug. 27 before culminating in a two-day competition from Aug. 28 to 29, with participants competing in three categories: mobile application development, mechanical engineering, and computer numerical control turning. Esther Mworia, principal secretary in Kenya's State Department for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, said the ATC has, over the past decade, offered a platform to reskill African youth, drive innovation, and hasten economic growth. "This remarkable initiative continues to be a beacon of innovation, skills development, and youth empowerment across Africa," Mworia said, hailing the contribution of Chinese firms in building a critical mass of technically skilled youth on the continent. According to Mworia, more than 1,300 young Africans have benefited from previous editions of the ATC, gaining hands-on experience in advanced manufacturing techniques, including computer numerical control machining and design technologies. Wang Runlan, president of AVIC INNO Project Engineering Company, said that the ATC has been instrumental in transforming the livelihoods of African youth by providing technical training, mentorship, and real-world industry exposure. According to Wang, Chinese enterprises are committed to sustainable development in Africa by nurturing local talent and creating jobs and business opportunities for the youth. "We celebrate more than technical skills; we celebrate resilience and ambition," Wang said, adding that ATC participants will immerse themselves in rigorous learning, pushing boundaries, and discovering their potential. The top two winners of this year's ATC will be awarded fully-funded scholarships to pursue further studies in China, while the runners-up will be awarded cash prizes. Contestants from Egypt pose for a group photo after the opening ceremony of the 10th edition of the Africa Tech Challenge (ATC), in Nairobi, capital of Kenya, July 28, 2025. The event, sponsored by Chinese firm AVIC International, officially commenced here on Monday, reaffirming efforts to equip African youth with practical, market-ready technical skills. Hosted by Kenya's Ministry of Education, AVIC Innovation Holding Limited, and the China Education Association for International Exchange, the initiative features 142 teams comprising 568 participants from 12 African countries. (Xinhua/Yang Guang) Newton Milimu, a representative of the contestants who once participated in the Africa Tech Challenge (ATC), delivers a speech, sharing his experiences during the competition, at the opening ceremony of the 10th edition of ATC, in Nairobi, capital of Kenya, July 28, 2025. The event, sponsored by Chinese firm AVIC International, officially commenced here on Monday, reaffirming efforts to equip African youth with practical, market-ready technical skills. Hosted by Kenya's Ministry of Education, AVIC Innovation Holding Limited, and the China Education Association for International Exchange, the initiative features 142 teams comprising 568 participants from 12 African countries. (Xinhua/Yang Guang) This photo taken on July 28, 2025 shows the site of the 10th edition of the Africa Tech Challenge (ATC), in Nairobi, capital of Kenya. The event, sponsored by Chinese firm AVIC International, officially commenced here on Monday, reaffirming efforts to equip African youth with practical, market-ready technical skills. Hosted by Kenya's Ministry of Education, AVIC Innovation Holding Limited, and the China Education Association for International Exchange, the initiative features 142 teams comprising 568 participants from 12 African countries. (Xinhua/Yang Guang) IRVINE, Calif., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Shopoff Realty Investments ("Shopoff"), a national manager of opportunistic and value-add real estate investments, was recently named one of the 2025 Best Places to Work in Orange County by the Orange County Business Journal (OCBJ). This marks the firm's third recognition, with previous honors in 2022 and 2023. The OCBJ, in partnership with the Workforce Research Group, created the awards program and county-wide survey in 2009 to honor and recognize the best places of employment in Orange County, California. "We are honored to once again receive this recognition from the Orange County Business Journal and be featured alongside so many impressive organizations," said Shopoff Realty Investments President and CEO William A. Shopoff. "Shopoff Realty Investments genuinely values talent, diversity, and strong company culture. Being named one of the best places to work is a true reflection of the dedication and hard work our team puts into making this company not only a place of business, but a true community and somewhere folks enjoy coming to work every day. It's not by chance we have employees with us for nearly 20 years. Congratulations to the incredible team at Shopoff on this well-deserved achievement." Shopoff is committed to supporting employees' professional growth and well-being, offering a range of career development resources, including paid professional memberships, access to conferences and workshops, and a tuition and certification reimbursement program. The firm also prioritizes work-life balance with generous paid time off, paid holidays, flexible work hours, and summer hours that allow for early Friday closures with full pay from June through August. Shopoff's collaborative culture fosters a high-performing, inclusive environment where long-term growth and teamwork are at the forefront, recognizing and celebrating employee milestones and achievements, ensuring that contributions never go unnoticed. Giving back is also a core part of who Shopoff is, with volunteer opportunities and support for community initiatives like food, clothing, and toy drives throughout Orange County and the surrounding areas. The full list of winners was featured in the OCBJ's issue released on July 7, 2025. More about the 2025 Best Places to Work in Orange County List: To participate, employers must meet eligibility requirements. They must have at least 15 permanent full- or part-time employees working in Orange County and maintain a physical operation within the county. Organizations must be publicly or privately held and must operate as for-profit businesses, nonprofit organizations, or government entities. Additionally, they must have been in business for at least one year as of the program registration deadline. Each employer completed a thorough process which included an evaluation of workplace policies, practices, and demographics, along with an employee experience survey. The combined scores determined the top organizations and the final ranking. To learn more about this process, visit www.BestPlacestoWorkOrangeCounty.com. About Shopoff Realty Investments Shopoff Realty Investments is an Irvine, California-based real estate firm with a 33-year history of value-add and opportunistic investing across the United States. The company primarily focuses on proactively generating appreciation through the repositioning of commercial income-producing properties, the entitlement of land assets, and development projects. The 33-year history includes operating as Asset Recovery Fund, Eastbridge Partners, and Shopoff Realty Investments (formerly known as The Shopoff Group). Performance has varied in this time frame, with certain offerings generating losses. For additional information, please visit www.shopoff.com or call (844) 4-SHOPOFF. Disclosures This is not an offering to buy or sell any securities. Such an offer may only be made through the offering memorandum to qualified purchasers. Any investment in Shopoff Realty Investments programs involves substantial risks and is suitable only for investors who have no need for liquidity and who can bear the loss of their entire investment. There is no assurance that any strategy will succeed to meet its investment objectives. The performance of this asset is not indicative of future results of other assets. Securities are offered through Shopoff Securities, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC, 18565 Jamboree Road, Suite 200, Irvine, CA 92612. Contact: Jill Swartz Spotlight Marketing Communications 949.427.1389 [email protected] SOURCE Shopoff Realty Investments ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The cost of travel has reached an all-time high, with the average trip costing roughly $6,300 in 2025. As costs continue to rise, travelers are looking for ways to save. Squaremouth, the nation's largest travel insurance marketplace , reveals its top 4 tips to help you save money when planning your next trip. Tip #1: Protect Your Investment with Travel Insurance Travel insurance is designed to cover the most common traveler concerns, including cancellations, medical emergencies, travel delays, and luggage. While travel insurance is an added expense, a comprehensive plan only costs 4-10% of your total trip cost and can save you thousands in out-of-pocket expenses if your trip is disrupted. Protect your investment and travel with peace of mind knowing you're covered if something goes wrong. Tip #2: Buy In Advance This goes for your travel plans and your insurance. Booking flights and hotels far ahead of time typically results in lower prices. Buying travel insurance early maximizes your coverage window and gives you more options, such as Cancel For Any Reason for the most flexible coverage. Tip #3: Compare Your Options Don't just opt for the first option you see because it's the most convenient. Whether it's flights, hotels, or travel insurance plans, comparing your options will help you find the best deal and save you money. Tip #4: Buy The Least Expensive Travel Insurance Plan Higher premiums do not mean better quality when it comes to travel insurance, so don't overspend on a plan thinking you'll be more protected. Buy the least expensive plan that meets your coverage needs. About Squaremouth Squaremouth is a trusted name in the travel insurance industry offering comprehensive, transparent, and competitive coverage to travelers for 20 years through its digital platform. With the largest portfolio of travel insurance carriers and products in the U.S., Squaremouth has insured over 4 million travelers. Media Contact Steven Benna [email protected] SOURCE Squaremouth BENGALURU, India, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Tata Elxsi, a global design and technology services company, today announced a strategic partnership with KAVIA AI, San Francisco based software 3.0 AI-powered platform, redefining software development with enterprise grade AI. Built to handle millions of lines of code and complex backend systems, KAVIA AI automates the entire development lifecycle, from planning and architecture to development, quality assurance, deployment and maintenance. This collaboration will deploy GenAI-assisted automation across Tata Elxsi's internal platforms and customer-facing programs, aiming to transform software quality and time-to-market. This joint go-to-market will deliver the power of GenAI for Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) to enterprises across transportation, media, communications, and healthcare where engineering reliability is paramount. By combining Tata Elxsi's deep expertise in domain-led engineering from concept to deployment, with KAVIA AI's cloud-native Workflow Manager Platform, the partnership will enable intelligent automation across every key phase of the SDLCfrom requirement planning and architecture design to code creation, testing and deployment. Nitin Pai, Chief Strategy Officer at Tata Elxsi, said, "GenAI adoption demands more than toolsit requires a trusted partner to pilot, productise and scale development and deployment workflows. Tata Elxsi brings that trust, backed by 25+ years of proprietary expertise in software engineering across complex, regulated industries, and a deep understanding of deploying GenAI with the appropriate industry-specific guardrails. We deliver not just AI automation, but real outcomes that go beyond just efficiency to effectiveness and the 'shift left' paradigm that enterprises need to scale GenAI in mission-critical environments." Labeeb Ismail, CEO of KAVIA AI, said, "We're excited to partner with Tata Elxsi, a company that brings the scale, credibility and delivery discipline needed to realise real-world AI adoption in large-scale delivery environments. Our platform is built to be enterprise-ready, and Tata Elxsi's proven delivery record ensures this technology delivers real outcomes to customers." Early deployments are already underway across multiple programs, including SaaS platforms, middleware, embedded systems and device development. These early outcomes validate the potential of GenAI-powered SDLC automationaccelerating software delivery without compromising on quality or compliance. About Tata Elxsi Tata Elxsi is a global design and technology leader, driving innovation at the intersection of design, digital, and engineering. With 35+ years of experience across industries, the company delivers end-to-end solutions for automotive, media, healthcare, and communicationsfrom embedded systems to cloud-native platforms. Recognised for its pioneering work in AI and GenAI-driven engineering, Tata Elxsi enables enterprises to reimagine the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC)accelerating architecture, development, quality assurance, and deployment through AI-first approaches. Tata Elxsi combines domain-led consulting, full-stack development, and system integration with a portfolio of award-winning Gen AI/ AI platforms, including: TEDAX AI-powered data intelligence platform IRIS Industrial AI platform for predictive maintenance, asset monitoring, and anomaly detection TETHER A connected vehicle platform enabling software-defined automotive services A connected vehicle platform enabling software-defined automotive services NEURON A scalable AI/ML platform for content personalisation, monetisation, metadata enrichment TECare AI-enabled digital therapeutics platform for personalised care and remote patient engagement By combining AI-first thinking with full-stack product engineering, Tata Elxsi enables organisations to move from GenAI experimentation to scaled deploymentsecurely, efficiently, and with confidence. For more information, visit www.tataelxsi.com. About KAVIA AI KAVIA AI is a software 3.0 AI-powered platform that automates the entire software development lifecycle. Whether you're building a simple web app or managing complex backend enterprise integrations, KAVIA AI streamlines everything, from planning and architecture to code generation, quality assurance and maintenance cloud-native and all in one place. For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected] Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/742257/Tata_Elxsi_Logo.jpg SOURCE Tata Elxsi COLLEGE STATION, Texas, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Storage Center has named Texas A&M University freshman Charles Pitner as one of three national winners of the 2025 Space to Succeed Scholarship. Selected from thousands of applicants, Pitner was recognized for his extraordinary commitment to service through his nonprofit initiative, Charlie's Kids-4-Kids Coat Drive. He will receive a $5,000 scholarship awarded directly to Texas A&M University to support his studies in agribusiness. Charles Pitner of Texas A&M University Pitner founded Charlie's Kids-4-Kids Coat Drive at age six and has since collected and donated more than 9,500 coats to families across Lubbock and surrounding communities. Partnering with local businesses and schools, the drive has become an annual effort that provides coats to children and families in need, with a highlight being the distribution event at a local elementary school each year. "Charles has spent more than a decade proving that age doesn't limit impact," said Robby Piper, Principal at The Storage Center. "Through his coat drive and continued education at Texas A&M, he is shaping a legacy of service that's inspiring to see." As a first-year agribusiness major, Pitner plans to use his education to create long-term opportunities for giving back through the agricultural industry. His goal is to honor Texas' rich farming traditions while expanding programs that serve local families and communities. "Charles represents the spirit of this scholarship combining education and service to create sustainable, positive change," added Piper. To learn more about The Space to Succeed Scholarship or this year's winners, please visit: thestoragecenter.com/self-storage/scholarship/ About The Storage Center The Storage Center is an industry-leading owner and operator of over 55,000 storage units at over 67 self-storage facilities in six states. Headquartered in Baton Rouge, LA, the company has been constructing and operating high-quality, Class A storage facilities since 1986. The company offers customers a wide selection of conveniently located and secure storage units across the country, including climate-controlled storage, boat storage, RV storage and business storage units. Additional information regarding The Storage Center is available at thestoragecenter.com. SOURCE The Storage Center CHICAGO, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Broadstreet Impact Services announced today that it has fully deployed the $35 million Thriving Communities Fund, an impact investment fund capitalized by TD Community Development Corporation ("TDCDC") to support business investment, community facilities, and quality and accessible job creation in low-income communities. The fund leverages federal New Markets Tax Credits ("NMTC") to provide affordable and flexible capital to development projects that would not otherwise be able to move forward. Notably, it has invested in commercial renovation projects that restore and return shuttered facilities to productive usehelping remove blighted properties, increase the tax base, improve the streetscape, and boost the outlook for the surrounding community. "TDCDC is thankful for the opportunity to work with Broadstreet to create economic opportunities and improve the communities in which we serve," said Michael Cooper, President of TDCDC. "It takes creative approaches and innovative tools, like NMTCs, to not only bring necessary resources to low-income communities, and to support impactful projects that enhance the well-being of local residents." The fund is specifically designed to help expand employment in places with high rates of job loss, while also improving access to critical education, health, and social services. Because it taps NMTCs, it offers benefits that conventional financing programs often cannot. It can help close funding gaps, lower borrowing costs, and offer access to loan forgiveness at the end of the NMTC compliance period. The projects funded illustrate the fund's objectives and impact: Hunger Hub (Charlotte): Renovation and build-out of a 90,000-square-foot facility serving as the headquarters for Nourish Up, a nonprofit that addresses local food insecurity. Nourish Up plans to distribute 200,000 meals every year. The Hunger Hub will work with 35 independently operated food pantry locations, through direct deliveries to households that cannot reach a pantry, and through its central distribution facility. Nourish Up is building a commercial kitchen to produce 2,500 medically tailored meals for daily distribution to homebound clients and will add 23 permanent jobs to staff the expanded facility and services. Renovation and build-out of a 90,000-square-foot facility serving as the headquarters for Nourish Up, a nonprofit that addresses local food insecurity. Nourish Up plans to distribute 200,000 meals every year. The Hunger Hub will work with 35 independently operated food pantry locations, through direct deliveries to households that cannot reach a pantry, and through its central distribution facility. Nourish Up is building a commercial kitchen to produce 2,500 medically tailored meals for daily distribution to homebound clients and will add 23 permanent jobs to staff the expanded facility and services. ConnCat Place on Dixwell ( New Haven ): Ground up construction of a 65,000-square-foot workforce development and multi-service facility in the Newhallville community. It will serve as the new headquarters for the Connecticut Center for Arts and Technology (ConnCAT), which provides job-training programs focused on the health sciences and culinary professions, while also leasing space to community partners who provide health, childcare, and community services to support families and children. The project will create 78 permanent jobs while helping organizations retain 41 existing positions. Ground up construction of a 65,000-square-foot workforce development and multi-service facility in the Newhallville community. It will serve as the new headquarters for the Connecticut Center for Arts and Technology (ConnCAT), which provides job-training programs focused on the health sciences and culinary professions, while also leasing space to community partners who provide health, childcare, and community services to support families and children. The project will create 78 permanent jobs while helping organizations retain 41 existing positions. The Chocolate Factory ( Philadelphia ): Renovation of a closed candy factory to create vibrant commercial space for local businessesincluding one of the city's major umbrella agencies for services to low-income families, El Concilio, and for the expansion of a childcare provider. The project is creating 130 jobs, all providing a living wage and benefits, while attracting investment and vital family services to a high-poverty neighborhood. Renovation of a closed candy factory to create vibrant commercial space for local businessesincluding one of the city's major umbrella agencies for services to low-income families, El Concilio, and for the expansion of a childcare provider. The project is creating 130 jobs, all providing a living wage and benefits, while attracting investment and vital family services to a high-poverty neighborhood. Delaware Valley Community Health Center ( Philadelphia ): Renovation of three sites for this federally qualified health center to expand health and dental services and lead a family practice residency training programmaking it the first teaching health center in the city. In addition to expanding its patient volume by 22 percent, the project is creating 133 full-time jobs. Renovation of three sites for this federally qualified health center to expand health and dental services and lead a family practice residency training programmaking it the first teaching health center in the city. In addition to expanding its patient volume by 22 percent, the project is creating 133 full-time jobs. Hazel Johnson-Brown Building/ Walter Reed ( Washington, D.C. ): Renovation of one of the last buildings on the long-shuttered Walter Reed Medical Campus, which is being converted into housing, businesses and community facilities. The project is transforming a former nursing building into a 10,000-square-foot home for the new Hazel's Hardware Store, which is named for General Hazel Johnson-Brown , the first African American woman to serve as general in the U.S. military. It will also include a coffee shop and office space and create 55 permanent jobs. "These projects tell the story of our priorities as an impact investor, as a fund manager and as a community partner," said Brent Kuennen, SVP of Fund Management with Broadstreet, which manages the Thriving Communities Fund. "We are grateful for the remarkable efforts of TD Community Development Corporation to invest in ways that have a lasting impact on families and on economic growth in the communities we serve." About TD Community Development Corporation (TDCDC) TDCDC is a certified Community Development Entity (CDE) and wholly owned subsidiary of TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank. Since 2007, TDCDC has been a six-time award winner under the NMTC Program, securing $450 million in allocation authority from U.S. Treasury to support the revitalization of low-income, urban and rural neighborhoods across TD Bank's Maine to Florida footprint. As an investor, lender, and CDE, TDCDC deploys flexible and innovative capital to help commercial and industrial businesses create and retain high-quality, accessible jobs and to help community-based organizations improve and expand access to critical education, healthcare, cultural, and social services. About Broadstreet Broadstreet is an impact financial services company offering fund administration, advisory, and management services. We work with values-aligned investors and fund managers to fuel social, environmental, and economic impact across the country. Our platform supports 41 multi-asset funds, 64 single-asset entities, and $2.3 billion in capital under administration and managementadvancing equity and opportunity alongside financial performance. Over more than 20 years, we have developed a client base that values our customizable services platform, fund development experience, impact focus, collaborative partnership approach, and deep sector engagement. For more, visit www.broadstreetimpact.com. Contact: Ariel Hargrave, [email protected] SOURCE Broadstreet Impact Services HANGZHOU, China and TOKYO, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Tigermed (300347.SZ / 3347.HK), a leading global provider of clinical research solutions across the full lifecycle of global biopharmaceutical and medical device products, today announces the completion of its acquisition of CRO company Micron,Inc. Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Tokyo, Micron is a Japan-based Contract Research Organization (CRO) focusing in medical imaging and clinical trial services with over 160 employees. Micron brings nearly two decades of expertise in clinical research and the largest team of imaging experts in Asia, served more than 250 clients and contributed to the successful approval of over 40 drugs. As the first imaging CRO in Japan, Micron has built a strong reputation for technology excellence and pioneering practices in imaging biomarkers, AI-powered imaging support, and long-standing client trust. Following the acquisition, Micron will be integrated into Tigermed's global network as a key entity under Tigermed Japan. Leveraging mature service team and deep regional expertise from Micron, as well as its worldwide operational layout, Tigermed will enhance its coverage across Japan and Asia-Pacific in medical imaging capabilities. "It's a great honor to join Tigermed," said Mr. Hiroaki Suzuki, President and Co-founder of Micron. "Micron is committed to human health by supporting research activities in the medical field through utilizing imaging technologies. We believe our 20 years of medical imaging experience and expertise will become a strong support to Tigermed in this sector. And Tigermed's global presence and resources will open new vision for Micron for building a broader platform and opportunity for worldwide expansion." "We are delighted to welcome Micron to the Tigermed family," said Mr. Michael Wen, Co-President of Tigermed. "Micron's unique strengths in technology and proven track record will be of great value to Tigermed's business expansion in Japan and Asia-Pacific region. The integration of our technologies and talent will comprehensively enhance our competitiveness in medical imaging and clinical services, empowering us to make greater contributions to global medical research and development." About Micron Micron, Inc. was established in 2005 and is headquartered in Tokyo, with offices in Osaka and Nagoya. As an imaging CRO, Micron globally supports the development of pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, medical devices, biomarkers, and AI-guided SaMD through a range of clinical development services centered around medical imaging. Micron provides support across various aspects of clinical development, including monitoring, quality control, imaging core lab operations, image analysis, and centralized imaging review. The company also serves as an In Country Clinical Caretaker (ICCC), offering tailored assistance to foreign medtech and biotech companies conducting clinical trials in Japan. In addition, Micron supports niche areas such as theranostic clinical trials, contributing to the advancement of personalized medicine. Learn more at www.microncro.com About Tigermed Tigermed (Stock code: 300347.SZ/3347.HK) is a leading global provider of integrated research and development solutions for biopharmaceutical and medical device industry. With a broad portfolio of services and a promise of quality, from preclinical development to clinical trial to commercialization, we are collaborating with over 3,600 customers and committed to moving their development journey efficiently and cost-effectively. Tigermed currently represents a worldwide network of more than 180 locations with over 10,000 employees across Asia Pacific, Europe, North America, Latin America and Africa. We are devoted to building an integrated platform that enables the boundless possibilities for the healthcare industry, embracing challenges to fulfill our commitment to serving unmet patients' needs, and ultimately saving lives. Learn more at www.tigermedgrp.com SOURCE Tigermed WASHINGTON, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Department of Commerce recently announced an antidumping duty rate of 20.56 percent in the sixth annual antidumping review of unfairly traded Canadian softwood lumber imports into the United States. The review establishes a liability rate for lumber imports that were dumped by Canadian companies into the U.S. market in calendar year 2023. Components of the Price of a New Home, 2024 (PRNewsfoto/The U.S. Lumber Coalition) A number of organizations and individuals in Canada who have a long history of strongly advocating for Canadian industry such as the BC Lumber Trade Council (BCLTC), the BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI), British Columbia Forest Minister Parmar, and B.C.-based industry analysts such as Russ Taylor have made statements about the increased dumping rate. These statements continue to ignore the fact that the dumping rate went up because Canada intensified its unfair trading behavior simple as that. These Canadian statements demonstrate a complete misunderstanding of the U.S. trade laws (which are very similar to Canadian trade laws), while continuing to regurgitate misinformation along with Canada First allies in the United States such as the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB). These advocates for the Canadian industry are ignoring some very basic fundamental facts as they struggle to justify Canada's continued unfair trade practices, which includes harmful dumping fueled by Canada's massive excess lumber production capacity of 8 billion board feet. It seems clear that there is a sense of panic in Canada as the bill for its 2023 unfair trade practices is coming due to the tune of at least $1 billion dollars money owed to U.S. taxpayers as a consequence of Canada's worsening dumping and subsidy behavior. The U.S. Lumber Coalition offers the following observations and reactions to the broad range of Canadian statements regarding the recent findings of the U.S. Department of Commerce. Canada ignores the fact that it engages in unfair trade and that antidumping and countervailing duty deposit rates are simply a reflection of Canadian unfair trade behavior: "We have said it before, and we say it again: If Canada does not like paying antidumping and countervailing duties, then stop dumping lumber into the U.S. market and stop subsidizing your industry," stated Zoltan van Heyningen, Executive Director of the U.S. Lumber Coalition. "It is remarkable that everyone advocating for Canadian industry, including Canadian industry associations, industry talking heads like Russ Taylor, and provincial government officials, ignores the fact that the U.S. Department of Commerce has determined that the Canadian lumber industry is engaging in unfair trade practices, and that the U.S. International Trade Commission has determined repeatedly that Canada's unfair trade practices are harming U.S. lumber producers and suppressing the continued natural growth of the U.S. industry." "Duties are rising because the Canadian industry intensified its dumping to the detriment of U.S. industry, workers, and communities. The United States didn't ask for Canada to engage in unfair trade, and the increased duties are the sole responsibility of Canada," added van Heyningen. Canadian industry, government officials, and Mr. Russ Taylor call antidumping and countervailing duties unjustified and punitive: "Antidumping and countervailing duties result from an in-depth investigation of facts by the U.S. Department of Commerce. They simply offset the levels of unfair trade and subsidies received by Canadian producers, nothing more. Unfair trade is extremely harmful to U.S. producers, U.S. workers, and their communities. As such, they are absolutely justified, and there is nothing punitive about leveling the playing field against such unfair trade practices," stated van Heyningen. Canadian officials, such as BC Forest Minister Ravi Parmar, have a fundamental misunderstanding of the U.S. trade laws, and instead focus on political rhetoric and advancing misinformation: "BC Forest Minister Parmar has demonstrated yet again an incredible lack of understanding of even the most basic facts around the trade case against Canadian lumber imports," stated van Heyningen. "Mr. Parmar seems more focused on the politics of the trade case issue instead of trying to actually understand the facts, all while feigning concern for U.S. consumers based on spurious numbers in a desperate attempt to appear responsive to the situation on the ground. "An increased cost of 15,000 to 20,000 more U.S. dollars to purchase or build a home in the United States? Really Mr. Parmar? Please do show us the math for that. I think even Canadian allies like the NAHB would not go this far with their already outrageous claims. These types of unfounded scare tactics have grown old and tired, and are simply not credible," concluded van Heyningen. Despite massive softwood lumber excess capacity problems in Canada and British Columbia, the B.C. industry is calling for government aid to further increase that harmful excess capacity: "Canada has a strong sense of entitlement to maintaining access to the U.S. market for its massive excess lumber capacity," stated Andrew Miller, Chair/Owner of Stimson Lumber Company and Chairman of the U.S. Lumber Coalition. "For the B.C. industry to call for provincial government help to further increase unneeded softwood lumber production in British Columbia when their excess lumber capacity and production is already not needed and causing serious harm to U.S. producers just comes across as incredibly tone deaf. So let me be crystal clear: Canada, we do not need your dumped and subsidized excess lumber," exclaimed Miller. Canada denies subsidizing its softwood lumber industry while simultaneously asking for more subsidies: "Canadian industry and government officials continue to call for more new subsidies while simultaneously claiming that the Canadian softwood lumber industry is not subsidized," stated van Heyningen. "There seems to be a real disconnect in Canada in understanding that these positions cannot be reconciled. Perhaps this conflict of statements and claims by Canada will become more obvious once the U.S. Department of Commerce releases its final determination for the sixth administrative review in the countervailing duty case," added van Heyningen. Messrs. Russ Taylor and David Elstone published an opinion piece highlighting their inability to consider all facts as they strongly advocate for the interests of the B.C. lumber industry: "Messrs. Taylor and Elstone recently issued an opinion piece in which Taylor stated that 'as industry consultants based in British Columbia, Canada,' they felt compelled to attempt to correct the record regarding statements made by the U.S. Lumber Coalition. Mr. Taylor correctly identified himself and Mr. Elstone as B.C.-based consultants, and, as such, his conclusions regarding this matter are no surprise," stated van Heyningen. "Unfortunately, yet perhaps predictably based on Mr. Taylor's past statements regarding this issue, instead of presenting 'a more accurate assessment of the US and Canada softwood lumber situation,' Mr. Taylor's opinion piece ignores the most fundamental facts about Canada's excessive reliance on the U.S. market and the harm it causes to the U.S. softwood lumber industry, while ironically highlighting the fact that the antidumping and countervailing duty orders have been extremely effective in reducing the harm of unfair trade." Andrew Miller concluded, "the arrogance and attitude of entitlement among Canadian lumber producers and government officials about access to the United States as a dumping ground for their excess capacity and the U.S. response of simply enforcing its trade laws to protects its citizens and communities from foreign unfair trade is astounding. Canadian industry and political leaders are in effect saying, 'the United States should not enforce its trade laws on behalf of its citizens and communities but should instead allow Canada to dump its lumber into our market to protect and benefit Canadian workers and communities.' Canada feels entitled to our market. It is not." "We applaud President Trump for firmly enforcing our trade laws against all unfair trade, including against unfairly traded Canadian lumber imports. This commitment to enforcing our trade laws not only saves American jobs but also will continue to build up the U.S. lumber industry and allow it to grow to its natural size to supply the American market with American product," added Miller. More Information U.S. lumber industry and workers sent a letter to President Trump on the need for continued strong enforcement of the U.S. trade laws to keep expanding U.S. lumber manufacturing and availability to build more American homes with American lumber. https://uslumbercoalition.org/story/u-s-lumber-industry-and-workers-letter-to-president-trump/ Enforcing U.S. trade laws helps increase the U.S. supply of lumber to build American homes, all without impacting the cost of a new home, as demonstrated by data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Fastmarkets Random Lengths. About the U.S. Lumber Coalition The U.S. Lumber Coalition is an alliance of large and small softwood lumber producers from around the country, joined by their employees and woodland owners, working to address Canada's unfair lumber trade practices. Our goal is to serve as the voice of the American lumber community and effectively address Canada's unfair softwood lumber trade practices. The Coalition supports the full enforcement of the U.S. trade laws to allow the U.S. industry to invest and grow to its natural size without being impaired by unfairly traded imports. Continued full enforcement of the U.S. trade laws will strengthen domestic supply lines by maximizing long-term domestic production and lumber availability produced by U.S. workers to build U.S. homes. For more information, please visit the Coalition's website at www.uslumbercoalition.org. CONTACT: Zoltan van Heyningen [email protected] | 202-805-9133 SOURCE U.S. Lumber Coalition New Board Member to Champion Cybersecurity Integration for Enhanced Business Resilience SAN FRANCISCO, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bugcrowd, a leader in crowdsourced cybersecurity, today announced that Antonio Bovoso has joined its Board of Advisors. Bovoso's extensive experience in aligning technology with business goals and elevating cybersecurity into an integrated business enabler across the enterprise brings critical insights as the company continues to reach a broader and more diverse customer base with complex enterprise needs and infrastructure. This addition further reinforces Bugcrowd's commitment to advancing strategic cybersecurity solutions that directly support organizational objectives and recognize the importance of embedding security within business operations. "Having served as a cybersecurity leader within multiple organizations, I deeply resonate with Bugcrowd's commitment to proactively strengthening security through close collaboration with their customers and ongoing investment in innovation," said Antonio Bovoso. "I am eager to join this esteemed Board of Advisors to help guide Bugcrowd in further leveraging its platform to build trust and empower organizations to tackle emerging security challenges, demonstrating cybersecurity as a core part of their business strategies. I firmly believe that strategically integrating cybersecurity with core business objectives, supported by Bugcrowd's proactive and collaborative approach, is critical for navigating modern digital threats and achieving lasting business resilience." Bovoso has a distinguished career focusing on transforming cybersecurity from a technical function into a strategic business advantage. Bovoso is currently the Vice President and Head of Cybersecurity at Sage Therapeutics in Cambridge, Massachusetts, bringing over 25 years of expertise in cybersecurity and risk management. He is recognized for his ability to strategically align technology with business goals, cultivate high-performing teams, and position cybersecurity as a strategic driver of business value throughout the organization. Antonio's extensive career includes leadership roles at Deloitte, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, and Bank of America. He holds an MBA from the University of Southern California. "For our customers, the insights and findings they get from the Bugcrowd Platform are just the beginning. But what comes next is just as important, Bugcrowd is dedicated to arming them with the details to inform and build security programs that are robust, adaptable, and genuinely align with their business objectives," said Dave Gerry, CEO of Bugcrowd. "Security isn't just about stopping threats; it's a critical component to making innovation and growth happen safely. And we are thrilled to have Antonio join our advisory board. His expertise in connecting tech to the business and making cybersecurity a real asset across the whole company will be a tremendous advantage to us in the market." With Bovoso joining its Board of Advisors, Bugcrowd gains invaluable leadership that directly supports its mission to embed security seamlessly into enterprise operations. His experience will help shape how Bugcrowd enhances its offerings, ensuring organizations can develop security programs that directly contribute to their business resilience and growth. This collaboration underscores Bugcrowd's commitment to being a vital partner in helping businesses navigate complex threats and embedding security as a core business enabler. About Bugcrowd We are Bugcrowd. Since 2012, we've been empowering organizations to take back control and stay ahead of threat actors by uniting the collective ingenuity and expertise of our customers and trusted alliance of elite hackers, with our patented data and AI-powered Security Knowledge Platform. Our network of hackers brings diverse expertise to uncover hidden weaknesses, adapting swiftly to evolving threats, even against zero-day exploits. With unmatched scalability and adaptability, our data and AI-driven CrowdMatch technology in our Platform finds the perfect talent for your unique fight. We are creating a new era of modern crowdsourced security that outpaces threat actors. Unleash the ingenuity of the hacker community with Bugcrowd, visit www.bugcrowd.com . Read our blog. "Bugcrowd", "CrowdMatch" and "Security Knowledge Platform" are trademarks of Bugcrowd Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, trade names, service marks, and logos referenced herein belong to their respective companies. Contact ICR for Bugcrowd [email protected] [email protected] SOURCE Bugcrowd BEIRUT, July 29 (Xinhua) -- More than 120 Syrian refugees returned to their homeland on Tuesday via the Masnaa border crossing in eastern Lebanon. This marks the first group of returnees under a government-backed repatriation plan. The refugees had gathered earlier in the day at Al-Nahda Club stadium in the town center of Bar Elias, eastern Lebanon, before being transported to the Masnaa crossing for their return to Syria. The convoy was escorted to the border by patrols from Lebanon's security forces. Upon entering Syrian territory, Syrian security forces took over responsibility. The return operation was carried out in coordination with Syrian interim authorities as well as several international humanitarian organizations. Lebanon's Minister of Social Affairs Haneen Al-Sayed, who oversees the Syrian refugee portfolio, told the National News Agency that the number of Syrians expected to return under this plan could reach between 200,000 and 400,000 by the end of the year. According to estimates by Lebanon's General Security Directorate, the country currently hosts more than 2.08 million Syrian refugees, although only 825,000 are officially registered with the UN refugee agency UNHCR. If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here The China-ASEAN Education Cooperation Week was recently held in Guizhou, China. During the event, an international cultural and artistic exchange showcased the diversity of participating nations and promoted mutual learning across cultures. New Delhi, July 29 : A comprehensive discussion on 'Operation Sindoor' is scheduled to begin in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday as part of the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament. There is also anticipation that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may participate during the course of the discussion, underlining the significance the government places on national security. Key ministers, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, are expected to participate in the debate, which aims to highlight the strategic and diplomatic dimensions of India's recent counter-terror operation. The debate follows an intense discussion in the Lok Sabha on Monday, where Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered the opening remarks and issued a stern warning to Pakistan. He stated that India would not hesitate to resume strikes if provoked again. "Let this be a clear message to those who support terror. India will respond decisively to any act of aggression," Singh said, drawing loud applause from the treasury benches. Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, was India's military response to the deadly April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, J&K, which resulted in the loss of 26 lives, including many tourists. The operation was a joint effort by the Indian Army, Air Force, and intelligence agencies, aimed at dismantling cross-border terror infrastructure. According to Singh's statement in the Lok Sabha, the Indian armed forces eliminated over 100 terrorists during the operation. Nine terror infrastructure targets across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir were destroyed through precision strikes. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also addressed the House, highlighting the diplomatic efforts that ensured international support and understanding for India's actions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the speeches of both Singh and Jaishankar, calling them "insightful" and commending the courage and professionalism of the Indian armed forces. "Their remarks reflect the strength and determination of New India," PM Modi said. As the Rajya Sabha prepares to take up the issue, the discussion is expected to shed further light on the execution and impact of Operation Sindoor. London, July 29 : US President Donald Trump met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland, where both agreed that urgent action is needed to bring an end to the suffering in Gaza, according to a statement from the British government. "They reiterated their calls for an immediate ceasefire to pave the way for peace in the region," the statement said. A day after Israel eased aid restrictions due to a worsening humanitarian crisis, Trump expressed disagreement on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that there is no starvation in Gaza, Xinhua news agency reported. When asked whether he agreed with Netanyahu's remarks about hunger in Gaza before a meeting with Starmer, Trump said, "Based on television, I would say not particularly because those children look very hungry." At a press conference later, Trump said, "Some of those kids are, that's real starvation stuff. I see it, and you can't fake that." Trump also noted that Israel should ensure aid would be delivered. "I want them to make sure they get the food, every ounce of food," he said, adding that the aid food "is not being delivered, or at least all of it." Starmer said the situation in Gaza is "absolutely intolerable" and seeing the images of starving children is "revolting." Israel on Sunday announced a pause in military operations in certain areas for 10 hours daily to improve aid flow. Alongside the measures, military operations continued. Israel had no immediate comment about the latest strikes, which occurred outside the declared time frame for the pause between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. United Nations, July 29 : The amount of food aid reaching hungry Gazans following Israel's opening of avenues of access is only a slight uptick, a UN spokesman said. "We've only had one day of this so far, so we'll have to see whether this improves," said Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "But there was a small uptick from what we've been having, which was a few dozen trucks going in for these days." Haq said only about 100 truckloads of aid entered the Gaza Strip on Sunday, which is about one-fifth of what should be getting through, Xinhua news agency reported. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that out of 17 missions requiring coordination with Israeli authorities on Sunday, only eight were facilitated, including the collection of fuel and supplies. Four missions, including the uplift of food cargo, were impeded but accomplished. "The long-standing restrictions on the entry of aid have created an unpredictable environment with a lack of confidence by communities that aid will reach them," OCHA said. "This has resulted in many of our convoys being offloaded directly by starving, desperate people." UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher on Sunday welcomed Israel's easing of restrictions on Gaza aid, saying that it will help alleviate the tremendous suffering of the starving population, adding that vast amounts of aid are needed to stave off famine and a catastrophic health crisis. The World Food Program said it has enough food in the region or en route to feed the starving population for about three months, while the UN relief agency for Palestinian refugees reported that 6,000 trucks in Jordan and Egypt were waiting to enter Gaza. The World Health Organization said that July was the worst month for deaths linked to malnutrition, with more than 85 percent of malnutrition-related deaths recorded in 2025. Nearly one in five children under the age of 5 in Gaza City is acutely malnourished. The office reiterated the urgency of a permanent ceasefire to provide adequate assistance and aid. "Israeli authorities must open all crossings and corridors to ensure the delivery of aid in an equitable and dignified manner," it said. OCHA said that modest quantities of fuel reached Gaza last week, adding that fuel must be allowed in to keep aid operations running, including operating the trucks to collect and distribute cargo. Phnom Penh, July 29 : The situation of the Cambodia-Thailand border has eased after a ceasefire took effect Monday midnight, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said on Tuesday morning. In a post on his official social media platforms, Hun Manet said, "The frontline has eased after a ceasefire took effect from Monday midnight in accordance with the spirit of the agreement between Cambodia and Thailand at a special meeting in Malaysia." "A sooner cessation of hostilities will also allow affected people, such as evacuees, to return to their homes and resume normal livelihoods sooner," he said. "This ceasefire and peace agreement is yielding positive and effective results," Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen said on Tuesday morning in a post on his official social media platforms. Thai and Cambodian leaders have agreed to implement a ceasefire starting midnight on Monday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said following a meeting on Monday hosted by him in Malaysia, Xinhua news agency reported. Cambodia and Thailand agreed on Monday to an "immediate and unconditional" ceasefire, following talks in Kuala Lumpur that were mediated by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. According to a joint press statement, the special meeting was chaired, hosted, and witnessed by Prime Minister Ibrahim in Putrajaya city of Malaysia. Prime Minister Manet and Thailandas Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai participated in the discussions. The talks were held amid escalating border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand which disturbed regional peace tremendously. The exchange of gunfire between Cambodian and Thai soldiers over disputed border areas began on July 24, with both sides accusing each other of violating international law. Srinagar, July 29 : Over 3.83 lakh pilgrims have so far undertaken the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, with 12 days left for the annual Himalayan pilgrimage to end. This yearas Amarnath Yatra has seen a heavy rush of enthusiastic devotees to the holy cave shrine in a highly secured, peaceful and smooth environment. Officials said another batch of 1,490 Yatris left Jammu in two escorted convoys for Kashmir on Tuesday. Of these, the first convoy of 16 vehicles carrying 327 pilgrims left at 3.25 a.m. for Baltal base camp, while the second convoy of 45 vehicles carrying 1,163 Yatris left at 3.57 a.m. for Pahalgam base camp. The aChhari Pujana of Lord Shivaas holy mace (Chhari Mubarak) is being celebrated in Amareshwar Temple in Srinagar on this day, on aNag Panchamia. The final journey of the Chhari Mubarak towards the holy cave shrine will start on August 4. The aChhari Mubaraka is traditionally housed inside the Amareshwar Temple at the Dashnami Akhara Building in the Budshah Chowk area of Srinagar city. It is the journey of the Chhari Mubarak that determines the landmarks of the Amarnath Yatra. It will start its final journey towards the cave shrine from the Amareshwar temple in Srinagar on August 4 and will reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, marking the official conclusion of the Yatra. During its journey from its seat to the holy cave shrine, traditional Puja will be held en route at Pampore, Bijbehara, Mattan and Pahalgam before the Chhari Mubarak arrives at its final destination, the holy cave shrine. Authorities have made extensive multi-tier security arrangements for this yearas Amarnath Yatra, as this takes place after the cowardly attack of April 22 in which Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 civilians after segregating them based on faith in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam. An additional 180 companies of CAPFs have been brought in to augment the existing strength of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB and the local police. The Army has deployed over 8,000 special commandos to secure the passage of the pilgrims this year. The Yatra started on July 3 and will end after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan. Yatris approach the holy cave shrine situated 3888 metres above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas either from the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route. Those using the Pahalgam route pass through Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtarni to reach the cave shrine, covering a distance of 46 km on foot. This trek takes a pilgrim four days to get to the cave shrine. And, those using the shorter Baltal route have to trek 14 km to reach the cave shrine and return to the base camp the same day after having darshan. No helicopter services are available to Yatris this year due to security reasons. The cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite structure that wanes and waxes with the phases of the moon. Devotees believe that the ice stalagmite structure symbolises the mythical powers of Lord Shiva. Seoul, July 29 : Arrested South Korean former President Yoon Suk Yeol did not appear for questioning by a special counsel team on Tuesday over an investigation into various allegations surrounding his wife, former first lady Kim Keon Hee. Yoon, who is currently in custody at Seoul Detention Centre, south of Seoul, did not show up at special counsel Min Joong-ki's office for his scheduled appearance over allegations of him and his wife meddling in election nominations. Yoon's side has not submitted any opinions about his non-appearance but the former president has rejected questioning by another special counsel team investigating his martial law decree, citing health reasons. In response, Min's team notified Yoon's side for Yoon to appear for questioning at 10 a.m. Wednesday. If Yoon continues to refuse to show up for questioning, the team may consider bringing him in by force. Yoon is suspected of interfering in the nomination of a People Power Party (PPP) candidate for the 2022 by-elections. He has been accused of securing the party's nomination of former Rep. Kim Young-sun for the 2022 by-elections in return for receiving a free opinion poll from self-proclaimed power broker Myung Tae-kyun ahead of the presidential election that year. The special counsel team has raided the homes and offices of Reps. Yoon Sang-hyun and Lee Jun-seok, who respectively served as the head of the PPP's nomination committee and the party's leader at the time of the 2022 election. Yoon, the PPP lawmaker, reportedly told investigators that he spoke with the former president about former Rep. Kim's nomination over the phone when he appeared for questioning on Sunday. The former president has also been accused of violating the Public Official Election Act for allegedly speaking a falsehood in a PPP presidential primary debate in 2021, Yonhap News Agency reported. Yoon has been under detention since July 10, when a Seoul court issued a warrant for his arrest over his failed martial law bid. New Delhi, July 29 : The US administration has said that more negotiations are needed with India to sign a bilateral trade deal, as the deadline of August 1 for reciprocal tariffs inches closer. In an interview with CNBC, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said that Washington needs additional talks to finalise a trade agreement with New Delhi. "We continue to speak with our Indian counterparts, we've always had very constructive discussions with them," Greer was quoted as saying. He added that India has "expressed strong interest in opening portions of their market". "We, of course, are willing to continue talking to them. But I think we need some more negotiations on that with our Indian friends to see how ambitious they want to be," said the US Trade Representative. "The thing to understand with India is that their trade policy for a very long time has been premised on strongly protecting their domestic market. That's just how they do business," Greer added. He also said that China's willingness to hold trade talks with the US is a "good sign", but he is not expecting any "enormous breakthrough". Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has already said that an agreement could be reached to avert 26 per cent tariffs. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also said last week that trade talks with the US are progressing well. "I can't comment if bilateral trade is good or bad, but we are moving forward on bilateral. Negotiations with the US and EU are progressing well," she added. US President Donald Trump has indicated that the US is "very close" to a trade deal with India, and it may be wrapped up soon. "We're very close to a deal with India, where they open it up" to imports from the US, he said earlier this month. Trump has not sent India the tariffs notice that was sent out to several countries imposing tariffs as high as 35 per cent on pure trade considerations if they did not complete a deal by August 1. Chennai, July 29 : With the Periyar and Vaigai dams nearing their maximum storage levels due to heavy inflow from catchment areas, farmers in the Madurai region have appealed to the Water Resources Department (WRD) to begin early release of water for irrigation. They say this move would help fill irrigation tanks and recharge groundwater in rural areas. According to WRD officials, the Periyar dam recorded a water level of over 135 feet as of Monday -- just below the permissible limit of 137.5 feet allowed until August 10 under the rule curve. The dam has been receiving an inflow of 3,639 cusecs, while 1,867 cusecs are being released. Meanwhile, the Vaigai dam has reached 66.6 feet out of its full capacity of 71 feet, with an inflow of 1,989 cusecs and an outflow of 869 cusecs. A first-stage flood warning was issued last week for both dams due to the continued increase in inflow following consistent rainfall in the upper catchment areas. Officials expect both reservoirs to reach full capacity soon. Farmer leader Ganesh Senthil Raj from Melur pointed out that this is the first time in several years that both dams have come close to full storage by mid-year. "Since Periyar has already crossed 135 feet, we must make full use of the inflow. The credit for Tamil Nadu from Periyar can be raised from 1,867 to 2,100 cusecs," he suggested. He also called for the immediate release of water from the Vaigai dam into major canals such as the Thirumangalam canal, Periyar main canal (benefiting Melur), the 58th canal, and the 18th canal. "Even if water is released for just 10 days, only about 1.25 TMC would be used, which could be stored in local tanks for future agricultural use," he said, adding that formal petitions have been submitted to the WRD. Krishan Viswanathan, another farmer leader, said that releasing water through the 58th canal would help recharge groundwater and fill irrigation tanks in outer Madurai. "If timely action is not taken, any excess water will have to be discharged as flood release and will end up in the sea without benefiting farmers," he warned. Deoghar, July 29 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief over the deaths of Kanwariyas in Jharkhand's Deoghar, and extended his condolences to the families of the victims. Eighteen Kanwariyas lost their lives and ten others were injured in a devastating road accident near Jamuniya village in Jharkhand's Deoghar district on Tuesday. The incident occurred during the ongoing Shravani Mela, a time when thousands of devotees travel to offer sacred water at the Baba Baidyanath Dham temple. Quoting PM Modi, the Prime Minister's Office said, "The road accident that occurred in Deoghar, Jharkhand, is extremely tragic. I express my deepest condolences to the families of the devotees who lost their lives in this incident. May God grant them the strength to bear this pain. Along with this, I pray for the speedy recovery of all the injured." Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren also expressed his sadness over the accident, stating, "This morning, extremely sad news was received about the death of devotees travelling in a bus accident near Jamuniya Chowk in the Mohanpur block of Deoghar." He said the district administration is providing relief and rescue operations along with medical facilities for the injured. "May Baba Baidyanath grant peace to the souls of the devotees who died in the accident and give strength to the grieving families to bear this hour of sorrow," the Chief Minister added. Earlier in the day, Deoghar MP Nishikant Dubey confirmed the tragedy, stating, "In my Lok Sabha constituency of Deoghar, during the Kanwar Yatra in the month of Shravan, 18 devotees lost their lives due to a bus and truck accident. May Baba Baidyanath Ji grant strength to their families to bear this grief." The accident site, located in Mohanpur block of Deoghar, lies along the banks of the north-flowing Jamuniya River, near a renowned Shiva-Parvati temple. The collision occurred when a bus carrying about 35 devotees en route to Deoghar for offering 'jal' (holy water) at Baba Baidyanath Dham was struck head-on by a truck transporting gas cylinders. Eyewitnesses described the scene as horrifying. The impact was so intense that the bus was reportedly torn apart, with screams echoing in the aftermath. Several devotees were trapped inside the mangled remains of the vehicle, prompting an immediate response from the police, ambulance services, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), who worked together to extract the injured and retrieve the bodies. The injured were rushed to nearby primary health centres and Deoghar Sadar Hospital. Authorities stated that the condition of some was critical. The identities of the deceased are currently being verified, and the bodies are being sent for post-mortem examinations. BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Tuesday urged the Philippines to stop colluding with other countries to exacerbate tensions on maritime issues. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the remarks during a daily news briefing in response to a media query about the recent announcement of military cooperation between the Philippines and the United States. According to reports, when the Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos was visiting the United States, the two sides announced the launch of military cooperation, and reiterated that the Mutual Defense Treaty is extended to the South China Sea. Marcos said that the promotion of modernizing the Philippine military is a direct response to the changing situation in the South China Sea, and that the United States deploying mid-range missiles and the two countries jointly building arsenal bases are conducive to preparations for possible future situations. Other sources said that Japan has exported six Abukuma-class destroyer escorts to the Philippines. In response, Guo said that China has always opposed attempts to increase military alliance and engage in military deployment and operation targeting others under the pretext of the South China Sea issue. "This will not solve any problem, still less intimidate China, and is against the common aspiration of Asia-Pacific countries of pursuing peace, development and stability," said the spokesperson. Guo stressed that any defense or security cooperation between the Philippines and other countries should not target any third party or meddle in the South China Sea disputes, still less provoke confrontation or escalate tensions in the region. "We urge the Philippines to stop colluding with other countries to act as scaremongers and shift blame on maritime issues, and stop inviting external forces for support, or finding reasons for voluntarily joining 'small circles.' Independence should be upheld with concrete actions, and regional peace and stability should be earnestly protected," said Guo. Beijing, July 29 : At least 30 people were killed in the heavy rainstorms in Beijing, the state media reported on Tuesday. The deaths occurred in Beijing's northern mountainous districts, with 28 in Miyun and two in Yanqing, as of Monday night, the Beijing municipal flood control headquarters said. A total of 80,332 people have been relocated across the city, and the maximum rainfall was registered in Miyun, reaching 543.4 mm, according to local authorities. The rainstorms damaged 31 road sections and disrupted the power supply in 136 villages. In recent days, extreme and severe convective weather brought by warm, moist air from the edge of the subtropical high has occurred in Miyun and other areas in Beijing. At 8 p.m. Monday, the Beijing municipal flood control headquarters activated the highest level of its citywide flood-control emergency response mechanism. Authorities in Beijing have warned the public to stay away from fast-flowing river sections, Xinhua news agency reported. Citing safety concerns amid heavy rainstorms, Beijing's Palace Museum and the National Museum of China were also closed to the public on Tuesday. The decision comes as authorities in Beijing issued alerts for severe rain and potential flooding, with parts of the capital bracing for torrential downpours. Both museums announced that all pre-booked tickets will be either refunded or rescheduled. China's national observatory also issued an orange alert for rainstorms, the second-highest level in its four-tier warning system, with this alert covering many parts of the country. Heavy rain is expected across numerous regions, including the capital Beijing and neighbouring Hebei and Tianjin, as well as Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, Jilin, Liaoning, Shandong, Jiangsu, Shanghai, Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi and Taiwan Island on Tuesday and Wednesday, the National Meteorological Centre forecast. Some regions will see up to 300 mm of rainfall within 24 hours, according to the observatory. It advised local authorities to prepare emergency response measures and remain on high alert for natural disasters such as flash floods and mudslides. The centre also renewed a yellow alert for severe convective weather in multiple regions of the country on Tuesday and Wednesday. Thunderstorms, gales and hail will hit areas including the northeast region, the northern region and regions between the Yangtze River and the Huaihe River, the centre said. China has a four-tier weather warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue. London, July 29 : Two men were killed and two others injured in a shocking stabbing incident at a business premises on Long Lane in London, United Kingdom, local media reported. The Metropolitan Police were called at around 1:00 p.m. (local time) on Monday, following reports that multiple individuals had been assaulted, reports BBC. Emergency services responded swiftly, with paramedics treating four people for stab wounds at the scene. A 58-year-old man was pronounced dead on the spot, while a 27-year-old man later succumbed to his injuries in hospital. Two other men, both in their 30s, were also injured -- one of whom is in critical condition. The man in critical condition has been detained in connection with the stabbings. Authorities have confirmed that the incident is not believed to be terrorism-related. The other injured man remains in hospital with injuries that are not considered life-threatening or life-changing, police said. A spokesperson for the London Ambulance Service stated that ambulance crews, advanced paramedics, incident response officers, a command support vehicle, and paramedics from the tactical response unit were dispatched to the scene. "We treated four people at the scene. We took three patients to major trauma centres as a priority. Very sadly, despite the best efforts of our crews, a person was pronounced dead at the scene," the BBC quoted the spokesperson as saying. Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Bond, who is overseeing the investigation, said: "Our investigation is in the early stages and we are working hard to understand the full circumstances of this shocking incident. At this point, we do not believe it to be terrorism-related and there is no further risk to the public." She added that there will be a significant police presence in the area throughout the day and urged anyone with information to come forward. "I would encourage anyone with information to speak with officers or contact the Met by other means," Bond said. Investigations are underway, and further details are awaited. Phnom Penh, July 29 : The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence on Tuesday rejected the statement of the Thai army that accused Cambodia of attacking Thailand hours after a ceasefire entered into force. "On behalf of the Cambodian Ministry of National Defence, I would like to reject the statement of the Thai army spokesperson that claimed that fighting occurred, violating the ceasefire agreement," Cambodian Ministry of National Defense's Spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said in a press briefing. She said the Cambodian armed forces have strictly implemented the ceasefire agreement that took effect since midnight on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported. Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said that small clashes after the ceasefire came into effect could be caused by undisciplined Cambodian soldiers and that the Thai side has responded proportionately, and the situation "is calm now." Earlier in the day, the Thai Army said that Cambodia violated the ceasefire agreement, but the Thai side is still working to facilitate negotiations between the frontline commanders of both sides. On the same day, Cambodian Defence Ministry's Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said armed clashes between Cambodian and Thai soldiers over disputed border areas had ended. Winthai Suvaree, Thai army spokesperson, on Tuesday morning issued a statement, saying that Thailand implemented an immediate ceasefire along the Thai-Cambodian border as soon as the ceasefire agreement took effect. "However, it is regrettable that when the ceasefire deadline came into force, the Thai side still found the Cambodian side launching armed attacks at multiple locations into Thai territory," the statement said. According to a previous announcement by the Thai Army, after the ceasefire, which started from midnight on Monday, one area along the border was harassed by the Cambodian side, leading to renewed exchanges of fire that continued until Tuesday morning. In addition, clashes also occurred in another area and lasted until 5:30 a.m. local time on Tuesday. In the early hours of Tuesday, the Thai Army confirmed via social media that a ceasefire had been implemented in all areas along the Thai-Cambodia border. Armed clashes between Cambodian and Thai soldiers over disputed border areas had ended after the leaders of the two countries agreed to a ceasefire, Socheata said on Tuesday. "As a positive result, at all military regions, there was no more exchange of gunfire," she said, noting that regional military commanders of both sides would hold an informal meeting on Tuesday morning to ensure the effective implementation of the ceasefire. The situation of the Cambodia-Thailand border has eased after a ceasefire took effect from midnight on Monday, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said on Tuesday morning. In a post on his official social media platforms, Hun Manet said, "The frontline has eased after a ceasefire took effect from Monday midnight in accordance with the spirit of the agreement between Cambodia and Thailand at a special meeting in Malaysia." Thai and Cambodian leaders have agreed to implement a ceasefire starting midnight on Monday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said following a meeting on Monday hosted by him in Malaysia. Earlier on Monday, after ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed it and said it is a positive step towards ending current hostilities and easing tensions. Guterres "urges both countries to respect the agreement fully and to create an environment conducive to addressing long-standing issues and achieving lasting peace," Farhan Haq, the UN chief's deputy spokesperson, had said in a statement. "The Secretary-General commends Malaysia, the current ASEAN Chair, as well as the United States and China, for their dedicated efforts towards the peaceful resolution of the situation," the statement said. The United Nations stands ready to support efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region, it added. The leaders of Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to implement a ceasefire from midnight on Monday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said following a meeting hosted by him in Putrajaya, Malaysia. Bengaluru, July 29 : After the Karnataka government revoked the suspension of four police officers in connection with the Bengaluru stampede case that claimed 11 lives, the state BJP unit has demanded that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar apologise to them. BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra stated on Tuesday, "The Valmiki Tribal Development Corporation scam, the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam, the ongoing breakdown of law and order - the formation of commissions to cover up all these issues and the victimisation of honest officers - are all part of a deliberate ploy by the Congress led Karnataka government to mislead the public." Vijayendra stated, "In an attempt to make political capital out of the RCB victory celebrations in Bengaluru, Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, lacking foresight and concern for public welfare, took an irresponsible decision and scapegoated four police officers to shield themselves from accountability. Now, by revoking their suspension, the government is trying to save face." The Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, state Home Minister, and top officials of the government are responsible for this grave stampede tragedy, which occurred due to their "Tughlaq-like" decisions. Meanwhile, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated in Bengaluru regarding the revoking of suspensions of police officers, "The cabinet has discussed the stampede report. After discussion, the cabinet has taken a decision to reinstate the suspended police officers and continue the departmental inquiry against them. Accordingly, they will be reinstated and their inquiry will continue." The Congress-led government in Karnataka on Monday revoked the suspension of four senior police officers, including two IPS officers. The government has revoked the suspensions of senior IPS officers B. Dayananda and Shekar H Tekkannanavar. The government stated in the order that these IPS officers would be reinstated to service with immediate effect, pending the initiation of Disciplinary proceedings under Rule 8 of All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules 1969. Guwahati, July 29 : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi for the latter's speech in the Lok Sabha during the debate on Operation Sindoor. Taking to his X handle, CM Sarma wrote, "Speech delivered by our MP from Jorhat in Parliament yesterday proved beyond doubt that he acts on behalf of Pakistan. His secret trip and close ties with the Pakistani establishment speak volumes. With his wife and both the kids holding foreign citizenship, he can leave India any time. He is a disgrace to Assam and a betrayal of our pride as proud Indian." On Monday, kicking off the Opposition's charge in the Lok Sabha during a special discussion on Operation Sindoor, Congress Deputy Leader in the Lower House, Gaurav Gogoi, accused the Centre of withholding critical information related to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians were killed. He questioned how five heavily armed terrorists were able to infiltrate and carry out the killings despite India's vast surveillance and intelligence apparatus. "(Defence Minister) Rajnath Singh gave many details, but could not explain how the terrorists reached Pahalgam or who helped them escape. You have Pegasus, satellites, CRPF, BSF, CISF-yet no answers after 100 days?" Gogoi demanded that Union Home Minister Amit Shah take "moral responsibility" for the attack, alleging that the government deflected blame rather than accepting security lapses. CM Sarma has been making grave allegations regarding Gogoi's alleged links with Pakistan's establishment, promising to disclose "damning" evidence on September 10. "What I will reveal on September 10 will make Rahul Gandhi regret why he appointed such a person to a leadership role," CM Sarma had earlier said, referring to Gogoi's position as Congress president in Assam. CM Sarma has alleged that Gogoi's wife was involved in gathering sensitive information related to the Indian government, purportedly for international climate lobbies. "We have documents to prove that his wife was collecting intelligence outputs of the Government of India. This operation is directly linked," he has claimed. He has also hinted at Gogoi's links with Pakistan's Interior Ministry and intelligence agency, the ISI. He has repeatedly questioned the timing and nature of Gogoi's travel to Pakistan, calling the visit concerning since it occurred before he became a Member of Parliament. "That's more dangerous, because at that time he was residing at the Chief Minister's residence. How can the son of a Chief Minister travel like that?" Sarma said. The CM has also raised questions about the citizenship status of Gogoi's family. CM Sarma claimed to possess documentary evidence showing that Gogoi applied to change his son's citizenship in 2021, despite the child previously holding Indian citizenship. Accusing the Congress party of long-standing proximity to Pakistan, CM Sarma earlier said that by appointing Gogoi to a key leadership role, the party had once again demonstrated its alleged sympathy toward India's western neighbour. "Rahul Gandhi must answer now. The Congress has always patronised Pakistan -- and in Gogoi's appointment, they've done it again," he said. New Delhi, July 29 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah lashed out at the Congress as well as party veteran P Chidambaram on Tuesday, taking umbrage over the latter's remarks that the Pahalgam attackers could have been 'homegrown terrorists' and not from across the border. He said there was ample proof of their country of origin as the Voter IDs of the Pahalgam terrorists were Pakistani. Speaking on the 'Operation Sindoor' debate in Lok Sabha, Amit Shah assailed the grand old party and Chidambaram over raising doubts, even if small, on whether the terrorists who killed 26 people in Baisaran Valley in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) were Pakistanis. He expressed surprise as to how the former Home Minister of the country (P Chidambaram) was raising questions over origin and nationality of terrorists. "Whom do you want to save? What will you gain by shielding Pakistan?," asked the furious Home Minister. Amit Shah told the House that there was ample proof with the government and investigating agencies that the attackers came from Pakistan. "They were Pakistanis. Their voter ID number is available; the rifles they used are also with us. Pakistan-made chocolates that the terrorists carried have also been recovered," Amit Shah said. "Former Home Minister is giving clean chit to Pakistanis," he added. Chidambaram, in a recent interview with a news publication, claimed that the government was unwilling to disclose the work the NIA has done in the aftermath of the terror attack in J&K. "Have they identified the terrorists? Where they came from? I mean, for all we know, they could be homegrown terrorists. Why do you assume that they came from Pakistan? There's no evidence of that," he told the daily. In another instance, when the Home Minister was heckled by the Opposition members in the House, led by SP MP Akhilesh Yadav, over the Centre's alleged failure in bringing the perpetrators to book even after 100 days of the heinous Pahalgam attack, he said that the security forces achieved unprecedented success in gunning down the terrorists involved in the April 22 terror attack. As the Opposition kept interjecting, he taunted them asking, "Doesn't killing of terrorists bring smile on your faces?" "I thought the killing of Pahalgam terrorists would bring a smile on the faces of all Parliamentarians, but this is strange. You are not happy. All should stand united in matters of national security and not express certain emotions, based on their religious identity," he further said. Bhopal, July 29 : On the second day of the Monsoon Session of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly on Tuesday, Congress MLAs staged a symbolic protest targeting the BJP government over rising unemployment and deteriorating law and order situation. Braving rain showers, Congress legislators, led by Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar, held demonstrations near Mahatma Gandhi's statue on the Assembly premises. In a symbolic gesture coinciding with Nag Panchami -- a festival when snakes are worshipped -- the MLAs carried flutes, traditionally used by snake charmers, to signify that the ruling BJP government had become deaf to public concerns. "The BJP government, led by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, has failed miserably in providing employment to the youth," said Umang Singhar. "Over 25 lakh youths are registered on the state's employment portal, including 10.46 lakh from the OBC category alone. The government had promised one lakh jobs per year but hasn't kept its word," he added. The figures, revealed in response to Assembly questions by Congress MLAs Atif Aqeel and Sanjay Uikey, paint a grim picture. Despite the government's claim of a marginal 0.56 per cent dip in unemployment -- amounting to 48,624 fewer registrations compared to seven months ago -- the total number of job-seeking individuals stands at a staggering 25,68,321. The state now refers to the unemployed as "Aspiring Youth," a change in terminology which Congress called cosmetic and misleading. According to government data, 4.69 lakh applicants from the Scheduled Castes (SC), 4.18 lakh from the Scheduled Tribes (ST), 6.34 lakh from the General category, and OBC candidates topping the list. Gender-wise, 13.91 lakh men and 11.76 lakh women are among those seeking employment. Congress MLA and former Minister Jaivardhan Singh also lashed out at the BJP government over the law-and-order situation. "One serious crime after another reflects the failure of the administration. Since the Chief Minister also holds the Home portfolio, people expect better governance and safety. Sadly, that hasn't been the case," said Singh, the son of former CM Digvijaya Singh. New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, July 29 : Kerala BJP President Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Tuesday cleared the air about the arrest of two nuns by the Chhattisgarh Police by saying there was a miscommunication and neither trafficking nor religious conversion has taken place. "It's now clear that neither trafficking nor religious conversion has taken place. There was a miscommunication in the incident. We the BJP will stand with the nuns till they get justice. If required I myself will reach Chhattisgarh. I have had contact with the Home Minister there," said Chandrasekhar to the media in Delhi. Earlier in the day, Kerala BJP General Secretary Anoop Antony on Tuesday met Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma over the issue. It was on Saturday after the Chhattisgarh Police arrested three persons, including two nuns, on charges of trafficking and forcibly converting three tribal women, things went into a state of flux. After the meeting, Antony said he had a fruitful meeting with Deputy CM Sharma, who also holds the Home portfolio. "It should be clearly understood that the Anti-Conversion Law in Chhattisgarh is very strict, which became law when the Congress ruled the state," said Antony. "A lot of misinformation about this incident is being propagated. It would be nice if people tried to understand the correct picture in Chhattisgarh. It should be understood that there are areas where tribals reside. Also, there are places where the presence of Maoists is very strong," said Antony. "At the meeting, Sharma has promised all help. They have sought legal advice, and the law will take its course. What the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh said was based on the FIR. A detailed probe will be held," added Antony, who further pointed out that three Chhattisgarh women hail from the area where Maoists have had a foothold, and where even the land records do not exist. The nuns, Preeti Mary and Vandana Francis, attached to the Assisi Sisters of Mary Immaculate, a congregation under the Syro-Malabar Church in Alappuzha district, were working at a hospital in Agra. On Saturday, the two nuns and the man, identified as Sukhman Mandavi, were accompanying the three women from Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district to Agra, Uttar Pradesh, where they had been offered jobs as kitchen helpers at a Convent. While they were waiting at the Chhattisgarh railway station, they were accosted by Bajrang Dal activists, and the police also arrived on the scene. Both the nuns and the man were taken into custody and later produced before a local court, which sent them to judicial custody. Soon this became a big issue in Kerala and among the Christian community across the country, and on Tuesday, a three-member team of Kerala Lok Sabha members -- Benny Behanan, N.K. Premachandran and Francis George reached Chhattisgarh. "We are going to the prison where the nuns have been put up. We will also meet with officials to find out everything," said Behanan. Premachandran said all "that has happened is with the knowledge of the state administration", while George said that it was "surprising that baseless charges of human trafficking and conversion were being spread." Father Sabu Joseph, attached to the Raipur diocese, said, "Let the authorities find out what work these sisters are doing there to uplift the poor. Anyone aware of a nun's job will understand what they have done and what they are doing." Meanwhile, the Church leaders are contemplating to move a bail plea for the two arrested nuns. Hyderabad, July 29 : Fourteen crest gates of Nagarjuna Sagar dam across the Krishna River were lifted on Tuesday to release water downstream. This is the first time in 18 years that the gates of the project have been opened in July. The water from the dam is usually released in August. However, huge inflows from the Srisailam dam following heavy rain in upstream Maharashtra and Karnataka have almost filled the reservoir early this year. Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy and Minister for Scheduled Caste Development and Tribal Welfare Adluri Laxman Kumar oversaw the opening of 14 out of 26 crest gates to release water. The gates were lifted to a height of five feet to release 78,060 cusecs of water downstream. The inflow into Nagarjuna Sagar was 2,28,900 cusecs on Tuesday morning, while the outflow was 1,18,790 cusecs. The water was also being left in the left and right canals for irrigation and also for a hydroelectric power plant. Authorities have alerted people in the low-lying areas downstream before releasing the water. The water level in Nagarjuna Sagar dam rose to 587.20 feet on Tuesday morning against its full level of 590 feet. The water storage in the dam stands at 305.62 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) against its capacity of 312.04 TMC. Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy said he was happy to lift the crest gates of the dam. He described Nagarjuna Sagar as a modern temple. He said that the first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, had laid the foundation stone for the project, while later Indira Gandhi inaugurated it. He noted that the mega project irrigated 22 lakh acres in both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Meanwhile, following huge inflows from upstream projects, authorities opened crest gates of the Srisailam dam in Andhra Pradesh. The crest gates were opened to a height of 10 feet to release the water downstream to Nagarjuna Sagar. According to officials, the water level in Srisailam on Tuesday morning was 883 feet against the full reservoir level of 885 feet. The water storage was 204.78 TMC against its full capacity of 215.80 TMC. As many as 2,29,743 cusecs of water are flowing into Srisailam from Jurala and Sunkesula projects, while outflow is 2,48,900 cusecs. Officials said 1,62,942 cusecs were being released. The authorities were releasing 20,000 cusecs through Pothireddypadu head regulator, 35,315 cusecs through the left bank hydel power station, and 30,643 cusecs through the right bank hydel station. New Delhi, July 29 : Mergers and Acquisition (M&A) activity in Asia Pacific region fluctuated throughout the year, declining in June as dealmakers awaited clarity to emerge on global trade negotiations, a report said on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the $1.39 billion acquisition of a minority stake in JB Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals by Torrent Pharmaceuticals in India was June's third-largest Asia Pacific deal, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence data. Two of India's deals made it to the list of the top 10 largest deals in June. The aggregate value of M&A deals in the Asia Pacific region declined 21.3 per cent YoY to $28.87 billion in June. However, the number of deals increased 13.2 per cent to 834. The decline came after a 57.4 per cent jump in May. On a month-over-month basis, the aggregate deal value fell 32.1 per cent in June, while the number of deals was up 12.2 per cent. The report said that 28 per cent of Asian respondents were more interested in M&A due to trade concerns. "Asian dealmakers are adapting rather than retreating from deals...This was the highest positive response of any international region, indicating that many Asian companies viewed the disruption as a chance, for example, to pursue non-US targets," the report mentioned. According to the report, local private equity firms are eager to deploy funds in midmarket deals in Southeast Asia, while larger international funds are shopping for bigger targets in East Asia. "Many respondents see private equity buyers as key acquirers across Asia." These include private equity deals and growth investments, such as buyouts of family businesses in Southeast Asia, carve-outs in Japan or growth equity in Indian technology startups, the report said. US President Donald Trump's April announcements of "reciprocal tariffs" in April shook global markets. On July 23, the US and Japan reached a deal that includes 15 per cent tariffs on Japanese imports into US. The deal mandated $550 billion worth of Japanese investments in the US. By the next weekend, the US and EU agreed on a tariff on all EU goods at 15 per cent, half the 30 per cent import tax rate Trump had threatened to implement. Analysts expect the global growth to slow in the second half of 2025, the report said. They believed high left-tail growth risk scenarios were less plausible due to reducing trade tensions. ---IANS Aaron/na KUWAIT CITY, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Kuwait announced Monday the launch of an air bridge to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, following a three-day donation campaign organized by the government last week. Assistant Foreign Minister for Development and International Cooperation Hamad Al-Meshaan said the funds raised would be used to purchase relief supplies from the local market, including oil, flour and other necessities. He added that the supplies would be transported to the Egyptian city of El-Arish via military aviation and handed over to the Egyptian Red Crescent in coordination with its Kuwaiti counterpart. He also noted the possibility of transferring part of the aid to Jordan, where the Jordanian army would air-drop it into Gaza. The Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry renewed its condemnation of the blockade imposed by Israel on the Gaza Strip in a statement last week, as hunger and malnutrition continue to worsen in the besieged enclave. New Delhi, July 29 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday detailed the National Investigation Agency (NIA)'s 3000-hour-long interrogation of over 1,000 people to bring the Pahalgam attack terrorists to justice. He said the bullets seized from the terrorists killed during Operation Mahadev matched 100 per cent with the bullets used in the Pahalgam attack. This confirmed that the same terrorists were responsible for the deaths of 26 innocent people in Baisaran Valley on April 22. HM Shah stated that three Pakistani terrorists involved in the attack have been eliminated in Operation Mahadev. Authorities also seized two AK-47 rifles and one M9 rifle that were used in the incident. Additionally, two locals who provided shelter to the terrorists are in custody. "NIA had detained the people who gave shelter to the terrorists. When the bodies of the terrorists were brought to Srinagar, four people confirmed their identities as Pahalgam attackers. However, we did not hurry and believe these people," the Home Minister said during the debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. "FSL report of the cartridge was already with us at the Chandigarh central FSL. And when these terrorists were killed yesterday, we seized three rifles -- one M9 American rifle and two AK-47s. The cartridges (of the Pahalgam attack) were also of this very type of rifle, but we still did not conclude solely on this," he said "These rifles were sent to Chandigarh immediately yesterday, and empty gun shells were generated through them by firing the entire night. Two shells were matched, so were the rifles' grooves, which confirmed that these were the very rifles used to kill our innocent citizens," HM Shah added. Presenting the NIA report, HM Shah said, "I have the report; it has been cross-verified by six scientists. At 4.46 a.m. this morning, they confirmed to me over a video call that these are 100 per cent the same bullets that were used in the attack." The Home Minister mentioned that when the offshoot of Pakistan-backed Laskhar-e-Taiba's outfit, The Resistance Front (TRF), took responsibility for the attack, it was decided to hand over this investigation to the NIA, as it is the world-recognised agency to investigate terror-related incidents. He also stated that all the security forces "did their best to ensure that these terrorists do not cross the borders". Stressing the extent of the investigation, HM Shah said, "It was a tiring investigation during which, families of the people who were killed, tourists, ponny walas, employees, shopkeepers, etc., -- over 3,000-hour-long questioning of 1,055 people was done and recorded in video." "Sketches were made according to them, and after an intensive search, people were identified who gave shelter to the terrorist after the attack. Both were detained and are in custody," he said. "The empty bullet casings we had recovered were sent to the Chandigarh FSL (Forensic Science Laboratory) for testing. And when those were tested at the Chandigarh FSL, it was confirmed that the same rifles had been used in the terror attack," he mentioned. "Alongside this, the terrorists involved in another terror killing have also been neutralised. After this, a sketch was prepared, and the mothers of the two arrested associates of the terrorists identified the bodies of all three terrorists. Their associates, who were involved in both terror incidents, also identified them. And today at 4 a.m., this was further confirmed through FSL verification," he added. New Delhi, July 29 : The share of US smartphone shipments assembled in China shrank from 61 per cent in Q2 2024 to 25 per cent in Q2 2025 and most of this decline has been picked up by India, according to a new report. The total volume of "Made-in-India" smartphones grew 240 per cent year on year, and now accounts for 44 per cent of smartphones imported into the US, up from only 13 per cent of smartphone shipments in Q2 2024, according to resecrh firm Canalys (now part of Omdia). "India became the leading manufacturing hub for smartphones sold in the US for the very first time in Q2 2025, largely driven by Apple's accelerated supply chain shift to India amid an uncertain trade landscape between the US and China," said Sanyam Chaurasia, Principal Analyst at Canalys. Apple has scaled up its production capacity in India over the last several years as a part of its 'China Plus One' strategy and has opted to dedicate most of its export capacity in India to supply the US market so far in 2025. "Apple has begun manufacturing and assembling Pro models of the iPhone 16 series in India, but is still dependent on established manufacturing bases in China for the scaled supply needed for Pro models in the US," said Chaurasia. Samsung and Motorola have also increased their share of US-targeted supply from India, although their shifts are significantly slower and smaller in scale than Apple's. Motorola, similar to Apple, has its core manufacturing hub in China, whereas Samsung relies mainly upon producing its smartphones in Vietnam. The United States smartphone shipments grew by 1 per cent in Q2 2025 as vendors continued to frontload device inventories amid tariff concerns. The uncertain outcome of negotiations with China has accelerated supply chain reorientation. Apple built up its inventories rapidly toward the end of Q1 and sought to maintain this level in Q2. Samsung scaled up its inventory stock in Q2, boosting its shipments to grow 38 per cent year on year, predominantly driven by Galaxy A-series devices, said the report. Kolkata, July 29 : West Bengal ranks among the most backward states, both in terms of the number of new companies registered and total foreign direct investment (FDI) attracted over the past few years, according to statistics compiled by two key Union Ministries. According to statistics compiled by the Union Ministry of Commerce & Industry and the Union Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation, the statistics on new companies registered nationally over the last three years show a poor performance for West Bengal in this regard. As per the Central statistics, during the last three years, a total of 5.25 lakh new companies got registered nationally, out of which West Bengalas figure was just 25,008, which is 4.76 per cent of the national figure. The states far ahead of West Bengal on this count were Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana, among others. On the contrary, figures show that 2,227 companies shifted their bases or registered offices from West Bengal to other states during the last five-year period from 2019 to 2024. Out of the 2,227 companies, 39 are listed with the Mumbai Stock Exchange. Under Section 13(4) of the Companies Act, 2013, a corporate entity has the freedom to shift its registration from one office to another, and there are several reasons for this shifting. The most commonly perceived reasons for changes in the base of a company from one state to another are flexibility in operations, smooth management, the cost of company administration, and better infrastructure facilities. As per the Central statistics, even in terms of attracting foreign direct investment, West Bengal cuts a sorry picture. During the last six years, from 2019 to 2025, West Bengalas position among the major Indian states in attracting foreign direct investment had been ninth, with the figure standing at just $663 million, as against Maharashtraas figure of $26,204 million. Maharashtra had been the top among all Indian states on this count. For quite some time, the economic and industry observers have been critical of two policies which they think pose major hurdles towards attracting big-ticket investment, both in the manufacturing and in the services sector. First, the land policy of the state government that absolutely nullifies state intervention in procuring land for industries is a hurdle for land procurement for big industries in the manufacturing sector, which requires a huge plot of land in one go, especially in a state like West Bengal with fragmented land holdings. Secondly, the state governmentas announced policy of not allowing special economic zone (SEZ) status to any new entrant is a disincentive for major investment in the services, especially in the IT and ITeS sectors. Dhaka, July 29 : Several political parties in Bangladesh have strongly opposed the interim government's decision to allow the establishment of a UN Human Rights office in the country. The move, announced during an event organised by the radical Islamist group Hefazat-e-Islam, has sparked widespread criticism. The radical Islamist party held a roundtable discussion titled 'Assessing the Agreement on UN Human Rights Commission Office in Dhaka,' at the Dhaka Reporters Unity in the capital on Monday afternoon. Hefazat's Secretary General Sajidur Islam stated that the decision to establish the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Dhaka goes against "the values of Islam" and promotes "western hegemony". "Open discussions will have to be held with all political parties regarding the opening of this office. For the sake of the country and Islam, we will not be able to speak in the name of anyone," Bangladesh's Bengali Newspaper Samakal quoted Hefazat-e-Islam Joint Secretary General Mamunul Haque as saying. During the discussions, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed described the move as "unfair". He urged the interim government to reconsider the decision to avoid what he called "international embarrasment for Bangladesh". "The interim government's decision to allow the establishment of a United Nations Human Rights Commission office in Bangladesh, without any political dialogue, is not justified," he said. Meanwhile, Amar Bangladesh Party Chairman Mujibur Rahman Monju accused the UN Women of advocating "western values in Bangladesh". Another party, Gono Odhikar Parishad President Nurul Haque Nur, said, "A pro-American government is running the country now. Making such decisions without any discussion is a form of authoritarianism." Last week, several radical Islamic parties, including Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh, strongly opposed the decision to establish the UN Human Rights Office in Dhaka. Hefazat leaders Ameer Shah Muhibullah Babunagari and Secretary General Sajedur Rahman said, "A human rights mission will not be allowed to open in this country for US interests. This is an attempt to interfere with the Muslim family law, Islamic Sharia and religious values of Bangladesh." The remarks came after the UN Human Rights Office and the interim government on July 18 signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to open a mission in the South Asian country to support the promotion and protection of human rights. "The memorandum was signed by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk and Asad Alam Siam, Foreign Secretary, on behalf of the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh," read a press statement issued by the OHCHR. Dhaka, July 29 : The Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM) on Tuesday raised serious concerns after violent mobs allegedly attacked, looted, and vandalised at least 21 homes belonging to Hindu families in Gangachara, Rangpur district. The human rights body mentioned that the violence on July 2728 followed a blasphemy allegation against a 17-year-old Hindu boy who is already in police custody. "A devastating episode of communal violence has forced scores of Hindu families to flee their homes in Rangpur's Gangachara upazila after a 17-year-old Hindu boy was arrested over a Facebook post allegedly defaming the Prophet of Islam. What followed was not an isolated expression of anger but an organized campaign of pillaging, fear, and displacement," read a statement issued by HRCBM. "Over the course of two days, mobs rampaged through the Hindu-majority area of Aldadpur village, targeting homes, looting valuables, and terrorizing residents. Local accounts indicate that between 14 and 21 houses were attacked. Eyewitnesses describe the scene as chaotic and violent, with law enforcement either arriving too late or unable to control the crowd," the statement added. "I couldn't sleep the entire night. By morning, we were packing everything we couldrice, bedding, goatsand fleeing the village. We don't know if we'll have a home to return to," the human rights body quoted Kamalakanta Roy, a local farmer, as saying. Citing police statements, HRCM stated that 14 Hindu homes were attacked, while local union officials and residents report that at least 21 homes were pillaged, with large amounts of property looted and livestock seized or sold in fear of further attacks. "Victims say the violence was not random but organized, and designed to drive them out," the rights body stated. Detailing the violence on Hindu minorities, the human rights body mentioned that on Sunday, after midday prayers, a large mob gathered near Khilalganj market and marched toward the homes of "Sanatan"(Hindu) families. It stated that "chanting religious slogans, they proceeded to loot valuables, destroy property, and terrorise residents who had already seen a similar attack the night before". Several families were left with no choice but to evacuate. "This was not a spontaneous act of anger. This was calculated. These families were targeted, their homes emptied, and their sense of security shattered," the HRCBM quoted Union Member Paresh Chandra as saying. According to the human rights body, tensions remain high in the area after law enforcement officials and army personnel were deployed to the area, in which a police constable sustained serious injuries while attempting to intervene. Earlier on Sunday evening, police arrested the 17-year-old boy and registered a case under Gangachara Model Police Station on charges of blasphemy, the HRCBM stated. "This is not an isolated event. False pretexts of blasphemy are increasingly used to target minorities, dispossess them, and force them into exodus in Bangladesh," said the rights body. Raising serious concerns regarding the investigation process, the human rights organisation stated that it is unclear whether the police conducted any digital forensic examination to verify the origin of the alleged post or determine whether the boy's account had been hacked or misused. Rights organisations fear that the boy may have been "coerced into admitting guilt" without proper legal representation or oversight. "The events in Gangachara reflect a recurring and intensifying pattern across Bangladesh, where blasphemy allegationsfrequently originating from questionable or manipulated social media postsare used to justify violence against Hindu minorities. These accusations routinely lead to swift arrests, often without due process, followed by mob attacks on minority neighbourhoods," the HRCBM emphasised. According to the rights body in several parts of Bangladesh, from Gangachara to Shalla, from Narail to Abhaynagar, the cycle of persecution of Hindu minorities continues: "allegations, arrests, attacks, silence," adding that beneath it all lies the "architecture of impunity"a system that offers minorities in Bangladesh neither justice nor protection, but only abandonment. Kolkata, July 29 : In an attempt to increase surveillance in guest houses and hotels in the city and suburbs under its jurisdiction, the Kolkata Police have issued guidelines tightening the check-in norms for guests renting accommodation. The decision came amid recent arrests of four accused in the murder of Patna gangster Chandan Mishra, including the prime accused Tauseef, from a guest house, Green Edge Regency, at Anandapur area in the southern outskirts of Kolkata, in a joint operation by Bihar Police and the West Bengal Special Task Force (STF). It was revealed that these accused persons were allowed check-ins at the guest house without furnishing documents on their identity proof. The Kolkata Police also registered a suo motu case against the owner of the Anandapur guest house for granting accommodation without any valid identity proof. To prevent a repeat of this incident, Kolkata Police have issued fresh guidelines for hotels and guest houses. Now, guest house and hotel owners must collect valid identity documents from all guests before check-in. No one will be given accommodation without a valid identity card. In addition, Kolkata police have directed hotels and guest houses to install high-quality CCTV cameras, especially at entry and exit points. The decision to increase surveillance was taken in a recent meeting of the Kolkata Police, where concerns were raised about lax surveillance at hospitality establishments. Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma said the police will have to be more vigilant about guests in these hospitality establishments. "Some guidelines are being issued. If these are not followed, legal action will be taken against the concerned persons," Verma said. However, the guidelines say that the police should also exercise sufficient caution, and guests should not be subjected to any inconvenience or harassment. The Commissioner also directed an investigation into the growing number of guest houses in the city to ensure they are operating within legal norms. Jaipur, July 29 : Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi on Tuesday to discuss the development of the state and future projects. The Chief Minister shared the information about the meeting on the social media platform X. "Met the Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji and held a meaningful discussion on the development of Rajasthan. On behalf of the people of the state, I extended heartfelt gratitude for his visionary leadership and unwavering support. Over the past 11 years, under the esteemed leadership of the Prime Minister, India has scaled new heights and emerged as a leading force on the global stage. Guided by his vision, Rajasthan has, over the last one and a half years, made significant progress by steadily overcoming developmental challenges." He said that the double-engine government is consistently working to make Rajasthan a model state -- "one where every farmer, youth, woman, and underprivileged citizen is empowered, receives justice, and leads a life of dignity and opportunity". CM sharma said the Prime Minister has assured continued and increased support for Rajasthan's development in the times ahead. "We are truly grateful to him on behalf of every citizen of the state," he wrote. A day earlier, on Monday, CM Sharma held meetings with several Union Ministers in Delhi to review ongoing Central schemes and seek support for upcoming projects in Rajasthan. He met Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the Union Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development; Manohar Lal, the Union Minister for Energy, Housing and Urban Affairs; and C.R. Paatil, the Union Jal Shakti Minister, at the Krishi Bhawan. The Chief Minister held an in-depth discussion with Minister Chouhan on issues such as rural development, agriculture, the Lakhpati Didi Yojana, and the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awas Yojana. He expressed gratitude to the Union Minister for releasing Rs 4,384 crore to Rajasthan under the MGNREGA scheme in the current financial year. CM Sharma also requested Central assistance for the Deployment of Agricultural Supervisors at the Gram Panchayat level, promotion of improved groundnut varieties and strengthening the castor oil industry in Rajasthan. He also highlighted successful state initiatives like "Per Drop - More Crop", diggi construction and field fencing in areas like Bassi and Jaipur. On the housing front, the Chief Minister underlined Rajasthan's strong performance under PMAY-Gramin. Chouhan appreciated the state's efforts and assured that: "Once the verification of survey data is completed, approvals for additional houses will be granted." He also informed that "Under PM-Janman Yojana, a total of 7.46 lakh houses will be constructed in Rajasthan." The meeting was attended by Union Minister of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Chaudhary, Agriculture Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi, Rural Development Secretary Shailesh Singh, ICAR DG Dr M.L. Jat, and senior officials from the Centre and Rajasthan. Later, CM Sharma met Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar to discuss Renewable energy, urban development and housing projects in Rajasthan. The Chief Minister requested Central assistance for strengthening interstate transmission systems, expanding renewable energy infrastructure, and fast-tracking Jaipur Metro Phase-2 and e-bus services in cities. The Chief Minister also called on Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil at his official residence. He briefed the Minister on the progress of the Jal Jeevan Mission and the Ram Jal Setu Link Project, which aim to improve irrigation and drinking water access in the state. Highlighting the positive impact of this year's monsoon, CM Sharma stated that most of the state's reservoirs are already full. He also emphasised that "Initiatives like Karmabhoomi to Matribhoomi and Vande Ganga Jal Sanrakshan Jan Abhiyan will contribute significantly to improving the groundwater levels in the state." -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed New Delhi, July 29 : Adopting tobacco-style warning labels on alcohol bottles can be a key measure to prevent the rising burden of cancer in India, said experts on Tuesday. A recent paper, published in the journal Frontiers in Public Health, called for strong, evidence-based warning labels on alcohol products, building on India's success with tobacco warnings. Alcohol, like tobacco, is a proven carcinogen linked to several cancers, including liver, breast and colon, yet awareness remains low. "Cancer warning labels on alcohol bottles are a low-cost, high-impact intervention that can raise awareness, influence consumption habits, and prevent long-term health harm," lead author Dr Abhishek Shankar, Assistant Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, told IANS. "With India having one of the fastest-growing alcohol markets and the largest adolescent population globally, adopting such preventive measures is not just necessary but urgent to protect our youth and reduce the nation's growing burden of alcohol-related cancers," the oncologist added. Cancer cases in India have seen a steep rise, with data from the 2012 to 2022 period suggesting a 36 per cent uptick in incidence (1.01 million1.38 million). Data from GLOBOCAN 2022 showed about 1.41 million new cancer cases in India, with a five-year prevalence of around 3.25 million and a total cancer mortality of 916,827 cases. The alcohol attributable fraction for cancer and age-standardised rate per 100,000 in India are 4.7 per cent and 4.8, respectively, according to the GLOBOCAN 2020 data. "Alcohol consumption in India is rising at an alarming pace, particularly among adolescents and young adults, making it a silent driver of preventable cancers. Evidence now confirms there is no safe level of alcohol use when it comes to cancer risk, with links to cancers of the colon, breast, liver, oral cavity, and more," Shankar said. "Among preventable diseases and deaths, alcohol-related conditions rank high. It raises the risk of many types of cancer and also liver cirrhosis -- all of which are expensive and cumbersome to treat," added Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman, Scientific Committee, IMA Cochin. The expert also called out against glorifying the use of alcohol in movies. "Unfortunately, our movie culture glorifies alcohol use, with younger viewers wanting to emulate movie characters despite statutory warnings. There is also rampant misinformation circulating on social media claiming the health benefits of alcohol, almost all of which have been proven wrong. Still, many people wrongly believe it is good for the heart. Therefore, it is important to include clear health-related labels," Jayadevan told IANS. Meanwhile, studies have linked alcohol consumption with more than 20 types of cancers. The most common cancers linked to alcohol are of the mouth, throat, foodpipe, stomach, colon, rectum, and pancreas. It also causes cancers of the breast in women and prostate in males.. According to experts, chronic alcohol consumption weakens the immune system, reducing its capacity to identify and destroy cancerous cells. "India successfully demonstrated the power of pictorial warnings on tobacco in shifting behaviors and saving lives. It is time we apply the same public health tool to alcohol. With rising alcohol use, especially among youth, it's time to act proactively to prevent avoidable cancers and save lives," Shankar told IANS. New Delhi, July 29 : A total of 15,206.68 MW capacity of grid-connected rooftop solar systems has been installed during the last five years across all sectors - residential, government, commercial and industrial, institutional, social and private establishments, the Parliament was informed on Tuesday. New Delhi, July 29 (IANS) A total of 15,206.68 MW capacity of grid-connected rooftop solar systems has been installed during the last five years across all sectors a" residential, government, commercial and industrial, institutional, social and private establishments, the Parliament was informed on Tuesday. Saturation of government buildings by the installation of rooftop solar is one of the components of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy, Shripad Yesso Naik, told the Rajya Sabha in a written reply to a question. The National Centre for Photovoltaic Research and Education (NCPRE), IIT Bombay, has conducted a study on the performance of solar modules in the country. Further, the Ministry has put in place a procedure to enlist type and quality-certified wind turbines titled aRevised List of Models & Manufacturersa (RLMM), the minister said. As on June 30, 242.78 GW non-fossil fuel-based electricity generation capacity has been installed in the country. The government has taken several steps and initiatives to promote and accelerate renewable energy capacity in the country to realise the target of 500 GW non-fossil fuel-based electricity generation capacity by 2030. The minister said that the government is implementing the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for High Efficiency Solar PV Modules, for achieving domestic manufacturing capacity of Giga Watt (GW) scale in these modules, with an outlay of Rs 24,000 crore. Under the Scheme, Letters of Award have been issued for the setting up of 48,337 MW of fully/partially integrated solar PV module manufacturing units, said Naik. He earlier informed the House that a total of 15.45 lakh households in the country and 5.23 lakh households in Gujarat have benefitted from rooftop solar installation, including those in rural areas (as of July 14). One of the components of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, launched in February 2024, is the development of Model Solar Village in each district of the country. An amount of Rs 800 crore has been allocated for this component with a provision of central financial assistance of Rs one crore per model village, said Naik. Ottawa, July 29 : Canadian MP Jamil Jivani has submitted a notice of motion to the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage, calling for the protection of the freedom to worship without fear of violence or criminal intimidation. The motion, submitted on Monday, called upon the Standing Committee to acknowledge that religious communities in Canada have faced increasing violence and criminal intimidation since 2021 and mentioned incidents involving attacks on Hindu Temples, churches, mosques and synagogues. Additional security measures and legal protections are needed to stop criminals from targeting religious communities and attacking the freedom to worship in Canada, Jivani said. The motion called upon the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage to recognise that protecting the freedom to worship without fear of violence or criminal intimidation is a fundamental part of Canadian Heritage and acknowledge that religious communities in Canada have faced increasing violence and criminal intimidation since 2021. It said over 100 churches were burnt down or desecrated, Hindu temples targeted by violent protestors, Jewish schools and synagogues targeted by fire bombings and shootings, and mosques targeted by assaults and vandalism. The motion asked the Standing Committee to study threats to the freedom to worship without fear of violence or criminal intimidation in Canada since 2021, consider the impact of bubble zone laws for places of worship and the impact of increasing the criminal penalty for arson and other crimes targeting places of worship. Jivani urged the committee to conduct a study on threats to the freedom to worship in Canada since 2021. The motion called for considering the impact of bubble zone laws for places of worship and increasing the criminal penalty for arson and other crimes targeting places of worship." It also sought two meetings on the issue, and a report of its findings be submitted to the House of Commons. In April, the Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Surrey was defaced with pro-Khalistan graffiti in what is now the third reported act of vandalism at the same site. In November last year, a protest by Khalistani extremists near the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton escalated into violence, with attendees of the temple reportedly attacked. Earlier, a Hindu temple in Windsor suffered defacement with anti-India graffiti, sparking widespread condemnation and calls for action from both Canadian and Indian officials. Earlier incidents in Mississauga and Brampton saw temples similarly targeted, drawing strong reactions from the Indian community in Canada. KAMPALA, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Four people were killed and 13 others injured after a passenger taxi plunged into a river in Uganda's eastern district of Busia on Tuesday, police said. According to a police statement, a commuter taxi traveling from Busia District to Tororo plunged into River Malaba at Amunguru bridge after knocking a pedestrian dead. "Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver of the vehicle, while traveling at high speed, knocked down and killed a pedestrian who was attempting to cross the road," the statement said. "The driver lost control, veered off the road, struck the bridge, and plunged into River Malaba below the bridge, killing three passengers and injuring 13 others, including the driver," police added. According to police, victims were rushed to a nearby public health facility for medical attention, while the bodies of the deceased were taken to the same facility's mortuary for postmortem examinations. "We urge all motorists to strictly observe speed limits and yield to pedestrians, particularly in busy areas, to prevent such tragic incidents," police warned. Bhopal, July 29 : At the state-level International Tiger Day programme held at the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stirred curiosity with a rhetorical question that challenged conventional wildlife lore; why is the lion considered the "king of the jungle" when its lifestyle is largely sedentary and dependent on lionesses for hunting? In contrast, the tiger, he argued, is a solitary and fiercely territorial predator that hunts independently and actively defends its domain. The Chief Minister left the question open to interpretation, inviting reflection from the audience, which included his cabinet colleague, senior forest officials, conservationists, and wildlife experts. In another thought-provoking moment, CM Yadav had earlier, on occasions, questioned why snakes, particularly cobras, are excluded from wildlife census exercises. He urged forest officials to consider whether the reptilian population, especially venomous species, should be accounted for in future biodiversity assessments. Even the state Forest Department had to communicate with the wildlife centre in Dehradun in this regard. The event also saw several key announcements and initiatives aimed at strengthening wildlife infrastructure in the state. CM Yadav formally announced the establishment of two new zoo-cum-rescue centres, one in Jabalpur named after Rani Durgavati, and another in Ujjain. The Jabalpur facility, modelled after Jamnagar's Vantara Wildlife Centre, will focus on the rehabilitation and treatment of injured wild animals, while also promoting eco-tourism and environmental education. To bolster field operations, the Chief Minister handed over three wildlife transport vehicles, three mobile veterinary units, and two dog squad vehicles. He inspected the vehicles and reviewed their technical specifications, including containment systems, medical equipment, and GPS-enabled tracking features. Madhya Pradesh, which retains its title as India's 'Tiger State', is home to nine tiger reserves: Kanha Kisli, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Panna, Satpura, Sanjay Dubri, Nauradehi, Madhav National Park, and Dr. Vishnu Wakankar Tiger Reserve (Ratapani). Among these, Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Umaria district boasts the highest tiger density and remains the most popular among tourists. According to official data, Madhya Pradesh's tiger reserves have witnessed a steady rise in tourism. Bandhavgarh alone accounted for over 32,000 foreign tourists in 2024a"25, underscoring its global appeal. The Chief Minister concluded the programme by reaffirming the state's commitment to wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism, and scientific management of protected areas. He also praised the efforts of forest personnel and eco-development committees, many of whom were felicitated during the event. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed New Delhi, July 29 : The government has raised a tax demand of Rs 21,719 crore as a result of assessments completed under the Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015 (during July 1, 2015 to March 31, 2025), the Parliament was informed on Tuesday. In addition, demand of Rs 13,385 crore has been raised (till March 31, 2025) on account of penalties imposed under various sections of Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015, Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, told the Rajya Sabha in a written reply to a question. "Notably, from 01.07.2015 to 31.03.2025, recovery of Rs 338 crore has been made against tax, penalty and interest demand raised under the Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015. However, since collections are not mapped to specific countries or types of foreign holdings, separate data for recoveries related to Swiss deposits or foreign accounts is not maintained," he said. Further, till March 31, 2025, 163 prosecution complaints have been filed under various sections of the Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015, he noted. Such enquiries are conducted on a case-by-case basis by the jurisdictional authorities. According to the minister, tax demand arising in cases of undisclosed foreign income or assets can pertain to multiple jurisdictions and country-wise bifurcation of such demand is not maintained centrally. "There are some media reports based on Swiss National Bank (SNB) statistics which mention that Indian linked funds in Swiss banks have risen in 2024 as compared to the previous year's amount. It is also relevant to mention that as per Swiss authorities, the data in respect of SNB statistics includes, inter alia, amounts due in respect of customer deposits (including in foreign branches of Swiss Banks located in any country), other liabilities as well as amounts due to banks," Chaudhary said in his reply. The Swiss authorities have also clarified that the SNB annual banking statistics should not be used for analysing deposits held by residents of India in Switzerland. Seoul, July 29 : Russia's Natural Resources minister has visited North Korea for a meeting on trade and technology cooperation, travelling aboard the first flight of the resumed direct air route between Moscow and Pyongyang, state media reported Tuesday. North Korea's External Economic Relations Minister Yun Jong-ho held a meeting with Russia's Natural Resources Minister Alexander Kozlov in Pyongyang on Monday, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said. According to KCNA, Yun and Kozlov each head the North Korean and Russian sides of the Intergovernmental Committee for Cooperation in Trade, Economy, and Science and Technology. The KCNA said they discussed the implementation of a protocol signed by the committee in November last year during Monday's meeting. Separate working-level committee meetings were also held for each sector to strengthen cooperation, along with a welcoming reception hosted by the North Korean ministry, the KCNA also noted. Also on Monday, Premier Pak Thae-song held a courtesy meeting with Kozlov, Yonhap news agency reported. For his trip to North Korea, Kozlov and his delegation travelled on a Nordwind Airlines flight, the first direct service from Moscow to Pyongyang. The plane departed Sheremetyevo Airport in Moscow on Sunday evening and arrived in the North Korean capital on Monday, marking the first regular air connection between the two capitals since the mid-1990s. North Korea subsequently held an event celebrating the resumption of the direct Moscow-Pyongyang route, the KCNA said, quoting Kozlov as touting advances in bilateral cooperation in the traffic and transportation sectors. "This is another clear sign of rapidly evolving bilateral friendship," Yun was quoted as saying during the event. Nordwind plans to operate the direct flight once a month for the time being, in order to stably manage demand for the route. Bengaluru, July 29 : Commenting on the incident involving actress and former Congress MP Ramya, receiving vulgar messages from supporters of Darshan after her remarks on the fan murder case involving the Kannada actor, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated that such incidents "must be brought to a halt." Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Tuesday, Home Minister Parameshwara said, "We have to take this development very seriously. Such incidents should not be repeated in the future. Today it has happened to actress Ramya; tomorrow, someone else might become a victim. We need to put a full stop to this. The Bengaluru Police Commissioner will take appropriate action." "I have not issued any specific instructions. The police will take necessary action on their own. We have also taken note of the letter from the State Women's Commission regarding this matter. Their letter will be responded to. I will also instruct the concerned authorities to ensure that such incidents do not occur again," Parameshwara added. Ramya filed a complaint with Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh on Monday evening against actor Darshan's fans for sending obscene and defamatory messages following her post on the fan murder case. Darshan is the second accused in the case, and the Supreme Court has reserved its verdict on an appeal challenging the grant of bail to him. Speaking to the media after filing the complaint, Ramya said, "I shared news about the Supreme Court's development regarding actor Darshan's bail petition to give hope to common people about justice. After that, the trolling began. I have filed this complaint as a voice for women." "I have lodged a complaint against 43 social media accounts. Some of them even threatened me with rape. If this can happen to me, what about others? Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh has assured me of action and has transferred the case to the Cyber Crime Wing. Women have the same freedom as men. Actor Darshan should have asked his fans not to post such messages," she added. "I don't have any personal connection with actor Darshan. I had met him once at a wedding before the fan murder case. If he had warned his fans earlier, the deceased fan Renukaswamy might not have been killed. He was Darshan's fan and likely wouldn't have sent messages to Pavithra Gowda," Ramya said. Pavithra Gowda, Darshan's girlfriend, is the prime accused in the murder case. In her complaint Ramya stated, "The disgruntled fans of actor Darshan (upset) by my act of sharing the news reporting the Supreme Court's proceedings, have sent scandalous, ghastly and obnoxious messages to my Instagram handle through various accounts. The messages sent to me are so disgusting and misogynistic that I am unable to even reproduce the same in the complaint." Ramya is also a film producer and has acted in more than 40 movies in different languages in the lead role. She has acted as a heroine opposite superstars like Dhanush, Surya, late Puneeth Rajkumar and others. Meanwhile, the organisation, Film Industry for Rights and Equality (FIRE), submitted a letter to Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Monday demanding immediate action against vulgar and misogynistic social media abuse targeting Ramya. Reacting to the vulgar messages and videos posted by actor Darshan's fans against the Kannada actress, the Karnataka State Women's Commission on Monday urged Bengaluru Police Commissioner Singh to take action in the matter. Mumbai, July 29 : To address the growing traffic congestion in Pune and its surrounding areas, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has written to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, demanding the immediate widening of three key national highways. The three are National Highway 60 (Nashik Phata to Khed), NH 65 (Hadapsar to Yavat), and NH 548D (Talegaon-Chakan-Shikrapur). In the letter, Dy CM Pawar highlighted that due to increasing urbanisation and industrial activity, traffic pressure in Pune and its metropolitan region has intensified drastically. He suggested that NH-60 (currently four lanes) should be widened to six lanes; NH-65 (currently four lanes) should also be upgraded to six lanes, and NH-548D (currently two lanes) needs expansion to four lanes. Pawar said that these roads pass through areas with educational institutions, industrial zones, residential complexes, hospitals, the petroleum and automobile industries, and major commercial hubs -- all of which contribute to increased vehicular load and traffic snarls. He also raised concerns regarding the safety of commuters due to frequent bottlenecks. Dy CM Pawar pointed out that the vehicular density on these highways has surpassed permissible limits, and the expansion of lanes is now a critical requirement. Furthermore, the widened highways would serve as alternative routes during the upcoming construction of elevated corridors in the region. "Since all three highways are linked to Pune city's entry points, vehicles from outer regions are creating severe congestion while entering the city. Therefore, urgent attention and remedial action are necessary. Widening of the TalegaonChakanShikrapur stretch could temporarily support traffic flow until the final stage of the ongoing elevated highway tender is complete," he said. The Deputy CM appealed to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to approve the proposal swiftly and allocate the required funds and administrative clearances to help alleviate the traffic burden in Pune's rapidly growing industrial corridor. Seoul, July 29 : The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said on Tuesday that personal ties between the leaders of the North and the United States are "not bad," while ruling out talks on Pyongyang's denuclearisation. Kim Yo-jong, vice department director of the ruling party's Central Committee, made the remarks as US President Donald Trump has expressed his intent to reengage with the North's leader. "I do not want to deny the fact that the personal relationship between the head of our state and the present US president is not bad," Kim said in a statement carried by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). "However, if the personal relations between the top leaders of the DPRK and the US are to serve the purpose of denuclearisation, it can be interpreted as nothing but a mockery of the other party," she said. DPRK is the acronym of North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Her remarks came days after a White House official told Yonhap News Agency that Trump remains open to engagement with the North Korean leader to achieve a "fully denuclearised" North Korea. Expectations have persisted that Trump might seek to resume his diplomacy with Kim, which led to three in-person meetings between them, including the first summit in Singapore in 2018. But the Hanoi summit in 2019 ended without a deal due to differences over the North's denuclearisation steps in return for sanctions relief, Yonhap News Agency reported. While mentioning the official's remarks that she called the US side's "unilateral assessment," Kim Yo-jong stressed, "The year 2025 is neither 2018 nor 2019," and called for recognising her country as a nuclear state. "Any attempt to deny the position of the DPRK as a nuclear weapons state ... will be thoroughly rejected," she said. "There should be a minimum judgment to admit that it is by no means beneficial to each other for the two countries possessing nuclear weapons to go in a confrontational direction. She also urged the US to seek another way of approaching North Korea based on "new thinking." In response to Kim's statement, South Korea's unification ministry reaffirmed Seoul's support for the resumption of North Korea-US dialogue aimed at resolving the North Korean nuclear issue. "Both South Korea and the US maintain a consistent position that they are open to dialogue with North Korea to build peace on the Korean Peninsula and peacefully resolve North Korean nuclear issues," a ministry official said. "We proactively support the resumption of North Korea-US talks for peace on the peninsula and stability in Northeast Asia," the official said, pledging continued efforts toward the talks. Experts said North Korea reaffirmed its stance that it will not sit down for Pyongyang's denuclearisation but appears to have left open room for talks with the US on other topics. Kim's remarks came just a day after she issued another statement via the KCNA claiming Pyongyang will not sit down with Seoul for dialogue and condemning it for "blindly adhering" to the South Korea-US alliance. The messages came as North Korea is aligning closely with Russia in defence, the economy and other areas amid the Russia-Ukraine war, making it easier for Pyongyang to circumvent international sanctions by relying on Russia for much-needed resources. New Delhi, July 29 : The gross NPAs for gold loans extended by NBFCs in India have risen to Rs 4,470 crore as on March 31, 2025 -- from Rs 3,634 crore in the year-ago period -- while in the case of commercial banks, the corresponding figure is Rs 2,162 crore -- up from Rs 1,513 crore as on March 31, 2024, the Parliament was informed on Tuesday. The data for middle and upper layer NBFCs shows that Muthoot Finance Ltd alone accounts for Rs 3,369 crore of NPAs as on March 31, 2025. Manappuram Finance which is second on the list has piled up gross NPAs to the tune of Rs 436 crore, according to figures furnished by Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, in reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha. The data show that the gross NPAs of banks against gold loans is the highest in the case of private sector lender ICICI Bank at Rs 452 crore. Union Bank of India figures at the second spot with gross NPAs of Rs 155 crore, followed by the SBI, the country's largest bank, which has gross NPAs of Rs 154 crore for loans pledged against gold as on March 31, 2025. The minister also stated that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has carried out a review of the adherence to prudential guidelines as well as practices being followed by Supervised Entities (SEs) with regard to loans against pledge of gold ornaments and jewellery. The review, as well as the findings of the onsite examination of select SEs by the Reserve Bank, indicate several irregular practices in this activity. The major deficiencies include shortcomings in use of third parties for sourcing and appraisal of loans, valuation of gold without the presence of the customer and inadequate due diligence and lack of end use monitoring of gold loans. Besides the RBI also found a lack of transparency during auction of gold ornaments and jewellery on default by the customer, weaknesses in monitoring of Loan-toValue (LTV) and incorrect application of risk-weights. The minister further stated that RBI has issued a circular dated September 9, 2024 on "Gold loans - Irregular practices observed in grant of loans against pledge of gold ornaments and jewellery" advised NBFCs and banks to comprehensively review their policies, processes and practices on gold loans to identify gaps, including those highlighted in the circular, and initiate appropriate remedial measures in a time-bound manner. The NBFCs and banks have submitted Action taken Report (ATR) in response to RBI circular to strengthen the systems and practices observed in grant of loans against pledge of gold ornaments and jewellery. As part of the action taken report, the banks have undertaken a review of their policies, processes, and practices on gold loan to identify gaps, including those highlighted in the circular from RBI referred above. Further, the banks have reported they have strengthened the process in place for monitoring of loan-to-value (LTV) limits and breaches thereof. All accounts where LTV is breached are followed up for recovery of overdue amount. Wherever the borrowers are not forthcoming with payment of overdue amount, the banks can initiate the auction process for recovery of their dues after following the laid down processes. The banks have strengthened the process for ensuring end use of agricultural gold loans, by making the documentation requirement more stringent. The banks have also devised systems to track evergreening of gold loans. Offsite tracking is used to detect instances of gold loans which are closed soon after sanctioning. The banks have developed robust systems checks to detect and prevent closure of gold loans accounts through debit of internal accounts. The standards for gold loan appraisal and auctions have been revisited and the scope of internal audit has been widened to detect the risk in the gold loan branches, the minister added. --IANS New Delhi, July 29 : In a searing speech in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra launched a direct attack on the Centre over the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam's Baisaran Valley, questioning the NDA government's claims of "normalcy" in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and demanding accountability from Home Minister Amit Shah. New Delhi, July 29 (IANS) In a searing speech in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra launched a direct attack on the Centre over the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam's Baisaran Valley, questioning the NDA government's claims of "normalcy" in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and demanding accountability from Home Minister Amit Shah. While speaking during the discussion on 'Operation Sindoor', Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also pointed to the Manipur unrest and Delhi riots and sought accountability from Home Minister Shah. "Everyone talks about 'Operation Sindoor', and we are proud of our Army. But no one talks about what happened in Pahalgam on April 22 when people were massacred in front of their family members. What were they doing there? They had gone there believing the government's word that peace had returned to Kashmir," she said. She recounted the harrowing story of Shubham Dwivedi, a recently married man who had gone to Baisaran Valley with his wife and extended family. "The weather was good, the valley beautiful. They had reached on horseback and were standing near a stall when four terrorists emerged from the forest. Shubham was shot dead in front of his wife. Chaos followed for the next hour as the terrorists picked their targets. Not a single security personnel member was present during the massacre," she said. Quoting Shubham's wife, Gandhi said, "The government left us orphaned. For over an hour, no one came. No security, no first aid, nothing." She sharply questioned why, despite 1,000-1,500 tourists visiting Baisaran Valley daily, there was no security arrangement. "The Prime Minister and Home Minister say Kashmir is normal. Then why were civilians left at the mercy of terrorists?" Gandhi highlighted that The Resistance Front (TRF), an affiliate of the banned terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the April attack, and has carried out 25 such attacks between 2020 and 2025 including the Reasi attack. "Yet the TRF was designated a terror outfit only in 2023. Why did it take so long? Isn't the Pahalgam attack a failure of our Intelligence agencies? Has the IB chief resigned? Has the Home Minister taken responsibility? No. Not even a word," she said. The Congress leader contrasted the current regime's attitude with the UPA era. "After 26/11, our Home Minister resigned. The Maharashtra CM stepped down. During those attacks, all terrorists were gunned down on the same day and only one was caught alive. He was also hanged later, accountability was clear. But has Home Minister Amit Shah resigned or even taken responsibility. Under his nose, Pahalgam happened, Manipur is still burning, Delhi riots happened but where is the accountability," she said. Chennai, July 29 : Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and popular actor Pawan Kalyan recently had an emotional reunion with his martial arts senior, Renshi Raja, rekindling memories of their early training days under the legendary late Shihan Hussaini. The meeting, which took place after 34 years, brought together two devoted martial artists who once trained side by side during their formative years. Pawan Kalyan, widely admired for his dedication to martial arts both on and off screen, took to social media to share his heartfelt reflections on the reunion. He recalled how Renshi Raja was already a black belt when he himself was a green belt in the early 1990s. Both were students of Shihan Hussaini, a highly respected figure in the martial arts community, whose influence continues to shape their lives and careers. "It was a great pleasure and honor to reconnect with Thiru Renshi Raja Avl. from Tamil Nadu after 34 years. He was my senior in the early 1990s, training under the guidance of Shihan Hussaini Avl at the same karate school. At that time, Renshi Raja was already a black belt holder while I was still a green belt. It's heartening to see him now leading the very school where we trained, carrying forward Shihan's vision with dedication," Pawan Kalyan wrote. The actor-turned-politician expressed deep admiration for Renshi Raja's commitment to preserving and promoting their late guru's teachings. Their conversation, he said, was filled with nostalgia and mutual respect, as they remembered the discipline, values, and camaraderie that martial arts instilled in them. The reunion photo, shared by Pawan Kalyan, quickly went viral on social media, with fans praising the actor's humility and reverence for his roots. Known for incorporating authentic martial arts in his films, Pawan Kalyan has always acknowledged the formative role his mentors played in shaping his discipline and character. Recently, the actor showcased his martial arts prowess in the historical action film 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu'. The film features an 18-minute pre-climax fight sequence that has been lauded for its choreography and realism. The movie, which is running successfully in theatres, combines themes of Sanatana Dharma with visually captivating action and has received positive audience response across regions. Pawan Kalyan's reunion with Renshi Raja stands as a poignant reminder of his deep-rooted connection to martial arts and the legacy of Shihan Hussaini, whose teachings continue to inspire generations. New Delhi, July 29 : There are 272 road and rail connectivity projects under the Sagarmala Programme that are being executed by the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways, the Ministry of Railways, major ports, and private sector concessionaires, the Parliament was informed on Tuesday. Out of these 272 projects, 74 projects have been completed, 67 projects are under implementation, and 131 are under development, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha. At the top of the Sagarmala framework, a National Sagarmala Apex Committee has been constituted for overall policy guidance and high-level coordination, and to review aspects of planning and implementation of the plan and projects. The Ministry of Ports and Shipping holds Maritime States Development Council (MSDC) meetings from time to time for creating synergy among various stakeholders, such as Central government ministries and state governments, the minister said. As a part of the Sagarmala Programme, 839 projects at an estimated cost of around 5.79 lakh crore have been identified for implementation, he said. Out of these, 119 projects with a total project cost of Rs 2.42 lakh crore are being implemented through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode and the remaining projects are being undertaken with direct government funding in engineering procurement and construction (EPC) mode. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has revised the Sagarmala Funding Guidelines for more financial propriety and speeding up of project implementation in respect of projects funded through the Sagarmala Scheme, the minister added. In answer to another question in the Rajya Sabha, Sonowal said that the ministry has signed an MoU with Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) to establish a Digital Centre of Excellence (DCoE) for the Indian maritime sector, which aims to accelerate digital transformation through advanced IT solutions, foster innovation, and guide the modernisation of port and shipping sector. The government has launched the SAGAR SETU platform, which aims to boost operational efficiency, productivity, and ease of doing business in the Indian ports and shipping sector for seamless EXIM services, significantly reducing vessel and cargo documentation time through faster and paperless processes, Sonowal said. To provide a uniform structure for major port tariffs, the government has introduced a standardised Scale of Rates (SOR) template, to provide distinct and uniform definitions and conditions, a consistent structure for categorising various port services and transparent presentation of tariffs, he added. This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a Polygonum viviparum L. on Yulong Snow Mountain in Lijiang, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Photo by Zhao Qingzu/Xinhua) This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a Draba yunnanensis Franch. on Yulong Snow Mountain in Lijiang, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Photo by Zhao Qingzu/Xinhua) This photo taken on July 22, 2025 shows a Notholirion bulbuliferum (Lingelsh.) Stearn in Shangri-la, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a patch of Primula sikkimensis Hook. on Shika Snow Mountain scenic area in Shangri-la, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a Saxifraga melanocentra Franch. on Shika Snow Mountain scenic area in Shangri-la, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) This photo taken on July 24, 2025 shows a Cremanthodium rhodocephalum Diels in Shangri-la, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) This photo taken on July 24, 2025 shows a patch of Polygonum macrophyllum D. Don in Shangri-la, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a Pedicularis likiangensis Franch. ex Maxim. on Yulong Snow Mountain in Lijiang, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Photo by Zhao Qingzu/Xinhua) This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a Potentilla articulata Franch. on Yulong Snow Mountain in Lijiang, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Photo by Zhao Qingzu/Xinhua) This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a Codonopsis bulleyana Forrest ex Diels on Shika Snow Mountain scenic area in Shangri-la, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) This photo taken on July 25, 2025 shows a Saussurea medusa Maxim. in Deqin County, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a Meconopsis rudis on Yulong Snow Mountain in Lijiang, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Photo by Zhao Qingzu/Xinhua) This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a Pedicularis likiangensis Franch. ex Maxim. on Yulong Snow Mountain in Lijiang, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Photo by Zhao Qingzu/Xinhua) This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a Meconopsis rudis on Yulong Snow Mountain in Lijiang, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Photo by Zhao Qingzu/Xinhua) This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a Meconopsis pseudovenusta G. Taylor on Shika Snow Mountain scenic area in Shangri-la, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) This photo taken on July 25, 2025 shows a Meconopsis lancifolia (Franch.) Franch. ex Prain in Deqin County, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) This photo taken on July 25, 2025 shows a Corydalis hemidicentra Hand.-Mazz. in Deqin County, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) This photo taken on July 22, 2025 shows a Rheum nobile Hook.f.et Thomson in Shangri-la, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) A photographer takes photos of a Saussurea medusa Maxim. in Deqin County, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province, July 25, 2025. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) This photo taken on July 24, 2025 shows a Saxifraga pallida Wall. ex Ser. in Shangri-la, the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Known as "Plant Kingdom" in China, Yunnan nurtures a wealth of rare alpine plants thanks to its unique geographical position, diverse landforms and complex climatic conditions. (Xinhua/Qin Qing) Seoul, July 29 : A potential meeting between North Korea and the United States will only remain a "hope" for Washington if it sticks to its "failed past," the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said Tuesday. Kim Yo-jong, vice department director of the ruling party's Central Committee, made the remarks as US President Donald Trump has expressed his willingness to meet with the North's leader. "If the US fails to accept the changed reality and persists in the failed past, the DPRK-US meeting will remain as a 'hope' of the US side," Kim said in a statement carried by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). DPRK is the acronym of North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Kim underscored that recognising Pyongyang as a nuclear state should be a "prerequisite" going forward, saying that any attempt to deny such status "will be thoroughly rejected." The leader's sister left room for an improvement in ties between North Korea and Washington, noting that personal ties between their two leaders are "not bad," Yonhap news agency reported. Still, she said such a relationship will not flourish should the push for the North's denuclearisation continue. "If the personal relations between the top leaders of the DPRK and the US are to serve the purpose of denuclearisation, it can be interpreted as nothing but a mockery of the other party," Kim said. Earlier on Monday, Kim made remarks in a statement carried by the KCNA, as South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has sought to resume dialogue with Pyongyang to ease military tension and improve inter-Korean ties. It marks the North's first official statement on the Lee administration, which took office last month. "Looking at around the past 50 days since Lee Jae Myung took office ... (he) is no different from his predecessor in blindly adhering to the South Korea-US alliance and pursuing confrontation with us," Kim said. No matter how hard the Lee government tries to draw North Korea's attention, the North's stance towards the South will not change, she said. New Delhi, July 29 : Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi on Tuesday attacked PM Modi over the ceasefire on 'Operation Sindoor' and questioned the success and aim of India's military retaliation on Pakistan. Delivering a fiery speech in Lok Sabha, the Congress leader took a dig at the Centre's handling of ceasefire talks, referencing the sudden halt in 'Operation Sindoor'. "For the first time in history, war stopped, and our government didn't announce itUnited States President Trump did. What does that say about our leadership?" she emphasised. Further, she raised concerns about Pakistan gaining influence at the global stage post-Sindoor. She was referring to Pakistan's elevation as Vice Chair of the UN Counter-Terrorism Committee and Chair of the Taliban Sanctions Committee in June, weeks after the April 22 Pahalgam attack, followed by the Indian Army's Operation Sindoor. "If our operation was a success, how did this happen? Who takes responsibility?" she questioned. Speaking of Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi's speech on Monday, she said, "When Gaurav Gogoi asked Defence Minister Rajnath Singh about responsibility, Home Minister Amit Shah was smiling." Taking a jibe at the ruling party for their consistent attacks on Gandhi family members, from Nehru to Indira Gandhi and even to Priyanka's mother Sonia Gandhi, she said, "The ruling party leaders are making comments on the tears of my mother. Let me tell you My mother cried when my father was assassinated. I know that pain. But true leadership isn't just about taking credit. It's about accepting failure, too." Ending her address, she read out the names of all 25 Indians whom those terrorists killed on April 22, and this triggered a brief uproar in the House, with opposition members thumping desks and shouting 'Indians' while ruling party MPs continued to call those victims as 'Hindus'. However, Gandhi's speech is likely to resonate as a powerful call for accountability in an increasingly securitised Kashmir. New Delhi, July 29 : Tobacco use among women and adolescents has declined, said Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav, in the Parliament on Tuesday. In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Jadhav stated the decline in tobacco use, citing two global surveys. "As per the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) -I (2009-10) and GATS-2 (2016-17) conducted among the age group of 15 years and above, there is a decline in tobacco use among women from 20.3 per cent to 14.2 per cent," the Minister said. "The Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) conducted for school-going children of age group 13-15 years reported a decline in tobacco use from 14.6 per cent (GYTS-3, 2009) to 8.5 per cent (GYTS-4, 2019)," he added. Jadhav also shared the measures undertaken by the Health Ministry to reduce tobacco consumption among women and children in the country. The Ministry enacted a comprehensive legislation, namely the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003 (COTPA 2003), to regulate the tobacco products and to discourage the consumption of tobacco. "The provisions under COTPA, 2003 and the Rules made thereunder prohibit smoking in public places, ban on sale of tobacco products to and by minors, sale of tobacco products within a radius of 100 yards of educational institutions, prohibition on direct and indirect advertising of tobacco products and mandatory display of specified health warnings on all tobacco product packs," Jadav said. In 2007, the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) was launched to discourage the use of tobacco, create awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption through regular and sustained public awareness campaigns, and ensure effective implementation of the provisions under COTPA 2003. As part of these, the Ministry launches a 60-day annual Tobacco Free Youth Campaign to educate young people about the dangers of tobacco and empower them to resist or quit its use. The Government has also enforced a complete ban on electronic cigarettes, including heat-not-burn products, under "The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage and Advertisement) Act,2019, Jadhav. Imphal/Guwahati, July 29 : After Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, on Tuesday launched a blistering attack on Gaurav Gogoi for the Congress MP's "ignorance of modern warfare". Taking to his X handle, Singh, a senior BJP leader and MLA, wrote, "Opposition leader, Shri Gaurav Gogoi's ignorance of modern warfare is a bit concerning. Questioning why our fighter jets did not engage at a close range ignores the strategic brilliance of long-range precision strikes that protected our soldiers and ensured that the mission was successful." "Ridiculing our brave defenders, who are working tirelessly at the frontline, is not just highly unbecoming of a political leader, but it is a disservice to the nation they safeguard. Truly ashamed to say that he is from the Northeast," said Singh. Participating in the special discussion on Operation Sindoor on Monday, Congress Deputy Leader in the Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi, accused the Centre of withholding critical information related to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians, mostly tourists, were killed. He questioned how five heavily-armed terrorists were able to infiltrate and carry out the killings despite India's vast surveillance and intelligence apparatus. A three-term MP from Assam, Gogoi, who is also the President of Assam Pradesh Congress Committee, had said, "The government must come clean. The people of India deserve to know the truth behind Operation Sindoor." Assam Chief Minister Sarma, earlier in his post on the X, said: "Speech delivered by our MP from Jorhat in Parliament yesterday proved beyond doubt that he acts on behalf of Pakistan. His secret trip and close ties with the Pakistani establishment speak volumes. With his wife and both kids holding foreign citizenship, he can leave India any time. He is a disgrace to Assam and a betrayal of our pride as proud Indians." CM Sarma has repeatedly targeted Gogoi in recent months, accusing his wife, Elizabeth Colburn, of having links with Pakistanas premier intelligence agency -- Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Congress MP, however, on a number of occasions, strongly denied the accusation. Assam Chief Minister and former Manipur Chief Minister's remarks come a day after Gogoi, during a debate in Parliament on 'Operation Sindoor', criticised Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for not addressing key questions about the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. Gogoi also raised concerns over internal security lapses and questioned the government's silence on the origin of the attack. Bhubaneswar, July 29 : As part of the ongoing protests by Biju Janata Dal (BJD) against the Bharatiya Janata Party-led state government over the spike in incidents of violence against women and students in Odisha, the principal opposition party's student and youth wings, on Tuesday, announced a statewide campaign, which will begin from August 1. Addressing a press conference here, BJD leaders expressed strong dissatisfaction over the lack of visible outcomes in the Balasore case despite the formation of multiple inquiry committees. They also pointed to similar incidents in Balanga (Puri), Tumudibandha (Kandhamal), Malkangiri, and other regions of the state, saying that the state government has failed to ensure justice for the victims. As part of the protest, from August 1 to 8, students from colleges across the state will submit memorandums addressed to the Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) at their nearest police stations and the office of District Superintendents of Police. The memorandums will highlight concerns over the safety of students both on and off campus, and demand immediate measures for the protection of women and girls in Odisha. The campaign will intensify from August 9 to 14, starting with Kranti Divas, during which lakhs of students will send open letters via postcards to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who also heads the Home Department, demanding justice for victims of violence and swift government action. "The silence and inaction of the state government is unacceptable. The students will raise their voice in a democratic manner until justice is delivered," said BJD MLA Byomakesh Ray. The BJD leaders also alleged that the law and order situation in Odisha has collapsed under the BJP-led state government. During the press conference, BJD MLA Devi Ranjan Tripathy also warned that the party would intensify its protests if the state government fails to ensure a safe environment for girls on campuses across Odisha. Kolkata, July 29 : BJP Lok Sabha member from Kanthi constituency in East Midnapore, Soumendu Adkhikari, on Tuesday, complained to Delhi Police against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of allegedly disseminating fake and provocative content on her social media handle on the issue of alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers from West Bengal in BJP-ruled states. Soumendu Adhikari is the younger brother of Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari. His complaint was about a video shared by the Chief Minister on the wall of her official X handle on Sunday, where she accused the Delhi Police of harassing and torturing a Bengali-speaking migrant family there. The Chief Minister shared the video and claimed that a child and his mother, who belong to a migrant family from West Bengal's Malda district, were allegedly beaten up by the police in New Delhi. In a written complaint with the Cyber Crime Branch of Delhi Police, a copy of which is available with IANS, Soumednu Adhikari asked the police to register an FIR against the Chief Minister under relevant Sections of the IT Act and take appropriate legal actions against her in accordance with law. "I am writing this letter to lodge a formal complaint against Smt. Mamata Banerjee, the Hon'ble Chief Minister of West Bengal, for the deliberate dissemination of false, fabricated, and communally charged content via her official social media handle, with the intent to malign the image of the Delhi Police, provoke public discontent, and stoke inter-community disharmony," read the letter. Adhikari said that the incident not only undermined the rule of law but also damaged the inter-state and inter-community harmony, and the faith of citizens in law enforcement. On Monday, the Delhi Police called the video "fabricated" and "politically motivated." Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Abhishek Dhania said that after a thorough investigation and enquiry, the Delhi Police have concluded that the entire video was baseless and fabricated. aThis video has been deliberately circulated on social media to tarnish the image of the Delhi Police. Further investigation is still going on," Dhania said on Monday. Soon after the rebuttal from Delhi Police, BJPas Information Technology Cell Chief and the partyas central observer for West Bengal, Amit Malviya, slammed Mamata Banerjee and accused her of spreading fake news. Bengaluru, July 29 : The Karnataka BJP Yuva Morcha has demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Home Minister G. Parameshwara over the drug factory bust in Mysuru, the native city of the CM. Four men, including a mechanical engineer, were arrested in a raid conducted by Mumbai's Saki Naka police team in Mysuru last Saturday. The team busted a drug manufacturing facility on the outskirts of the city and seized 188 kilograms of mephedrone drugs with an estimated value of Rs 383 crore. Speaking at a press conference held at BJP's state headquarters, Jagannath Bhavan, on Tuesday, BJP Yuva Morcha State President and MLA Dheeraj Muniraj has demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Home Minister G. Parameshwara, holding them morally accountable for the drug manufacturing case uncovered by the Mumbai Police in Mysuru the home district of the Chief Minister. Dheeraj Muniraj insisted that the Congress government must take strict action against drug-related activities. He announced that the BJP Yuva Morcha would stage a protest in Mysuru on Wednesday (July 30) against the district administration and the Superintendent of Police. He said the government, the CM, and the Home Minister must take stern action and ensure that no one else becomes involved in such criminal activities. "Strict measures should be taken against the officers who collaborated and politicians who supported the racket," he demanded. MLA Dheeraj added that the Yuva Morcha would also intensify its anti-drug campaign in Bengaluru and eventually across all districts of Karnataka. He questioned whether the state government is misusing the police system and running the administration with money from illegal drug trafficking. "If drug suppliers are based in the constituency of the AICC President, and manufacturing is happening in the home district of the Chief Minister, then what are we even supposed to ask? This sends a terrible message," he questioned. The BJYM strongly condemned the drug network and the government's inaction, warning that the youth would fall prey to addiction if the Narcotics Control Bureau failed to act decisively. He pointed out that in the past year alone, over Rs 1,300 crore worth of drug seizures have been reported. "Even though Maharashtra Police conducted a drug bust in Kalaburagi, the Karnataka government took no action," he alleged. Highlighting the deteriorating state of law enforcement, Dheeraj said, "The Maharashtra Anti-Narcotics Squad conducted a raid near Mysuru the CM's home district and discovered a synthetic drug manufacturing unit operating behind a car service centre. How can this happen without the knowledge of the local police?" He recalled that since the Congress came to power, the drug menace had worsened, starting with the drug seizure at Mangaluru Port in 2023. He also mentioned the recent arrest of Kalaburagi Block Congress President Lingaraju by the Mumbai Police, implying that his political connections are well-known to the public. "The drug peddling case in Kalaburagi and now the fact that drugs were being manufactured in the CM's home district and supplied from the AICC President's constituency this is a blot on Karnataka," he said. "What are the police and the narcotics units doing?" he asked, noting that in 2024, CM Siddaramaiah and Home Minister Parameshwara had announced a 'Drug-Free Karnataka' app, which has yielded no results. He also criticised the breakdown of law and order in the state. He noted that the Mysuru Commissioner had suspended Narasimharaja Police Station Inspector Lakshmikant Talwar in connection with the case. "How can this happen without the knowledge of the police? The intelligence wing is under the CM's control. If this is the situation in his district, what might be the state of affairs elsewhere in Karnataka?" he questioned. He expressed concern that drug trafficking and consumption are fuelling a rise in rowdy elements and violence. "It's unfortunate that drugs are now being manufactured right here," he said. BJYM State General Secretary Sandeep Ravi, State Secretary Deepak Kumar, and former Bengaluru Central District President Abhilash Reddy were also present at the press conference. New Delhi, July 29 : A Delhi court on Tuesday deferred the pronouncement of its decision on the question of taking cognisance of the prosecution complaint filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the alleged National Herald money laundering case. The high-profile case arrays Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, Congress Overseas chief Sam Pitroda, Suman Dubey, and others as accused under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Special Judge (PC Act) Vishal Gogne, who was slated to deliver the verdict on Tuesday, deferred the pronouncement till the second week of August. The Rouse Avenue Court had reserved its order on July 14 after hearing detailed arguments of the federal anti-money laundering agency as well as the proposed accused, including the Gandhis. During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) S.V. Raju, representing the ED, had claimed that Young Indian Ltd -- in which Sonia and Rahul Gandhi are majority stakeholders was used for usurping around Rs 2,000 crore assets of the National Herald by paying a nominal price of Rs 50 lakh. ASG Raju said that Young Indian exists just in name, and all the other accused are puppets of the Gandhi family. As per the ED, a conspiracy was hatched to form Young Indian to acquire control over the vast assets of the now-defunct newspaper, aimed at benefiting the top Congress leadership personally. The Central agency said that several senior Congress leaders were involved in "fake transactions" made to Associated Journals Limited (AJL), the original publisher of the National Herald. ASG Raju told the court that individuals were making fraudulent advance rent payments over several years at the direction of senior Congress functionaries with fabricated rent receipts. The ED's prosecution complaint claimed that by way of a malicious takeover, the Congress leadership had misappropriated property belonging to the AJL and converted public trusts into personal assets. In contrast, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Sonia Gandhi, had described the money laundering allegations as "really strange" and "unprecedented", claiming that no tangible assets were involved. Further, LoP Rahul Gandhi claimed that the All India Congress Committee's attempts to revive the pre-Independence era newspaper were misconstrued as a bid to sell its assets. Highlighting the non-profit objectives of the company, senior advocate R.S. Cheema, representing LoP Rahul Gandhi, said National Herald was never a commercial institution and the AICC just wanted to bring the newspaper back on the rails. The controversy over National Herald's assets came into focus in 2012 when BJP leader Subramanian Swamy filed a complaint in a trial court, alleging that Congress leaders had engaged in cheating and breach of trust in the process of acquiring AJL. New Delhi, July 29 : More than 1.06 lakh claims have been settled under the Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme, said Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, on Tuesday. In October 2024, the scope of the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) was expanded to include all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, irrespective of their socio-economic status. Under this initiative, beneficiaries can receive free treatment benefits of up to Rs 5 lakh per year through Ayushman Vay Vandana cards. "As on date, over 1.06 lakh claims have been settled under Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme since its launch," Jadhav said. "A total of 75.41 lakh Ayushman Vay Vandana cards have been created, out of which 32.3 lakh cards have been created for female beneficiaries," he added. In addition, the portability feature of AB-PMJAY allows eligible beneficiaries -- including those under the Vay Vandana scheme -- to access healthcare services at any of the 31,466 empanelled hospitals across the country, regardless of their place of residence. "This ensures seamless and equitable access to quality healthcare for the elderly population nationwide," the MoS said. "Vay Vandana scheme beneficiaries can also avail treatment through a vast network of 14,194 private healthcare providers empanelled under the scheme," he noted. To ensure quality and consistency in service delivery, the National Health Authority (NHA) issued comprehensive Hospital Empanelment and Management (HEM) Guidelines for the empanelment of hospitals under the AB-PMJAY. The AB-PMJAY has emerged as one of the world's largest publicly funded health insurance schemes. It has enabled 8.59 crore hospital admissions worth Rs 1,19,858 crore, ensuring access to secondary and tertiary care without pushing families into debt, according to an official statement by the government. Meanwhile, Jadhav also shared the steps taken to strengthen the district-level health system, such as the Pradhan Mantri-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM). "PM-ABHIM has been launched with an outlay of Rs 64,180 crore over five years (FY 2021-26). The mission focuses on strengthening the capacities of health systems across all levels -- primary, secondary, and tertiary care -- to ensure effective response to current and future pandemics and disasters," the Minister said. Under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) components of PM-ABHIM, provision has been made to provide support for establishment of 602 Critical Care Hospital Blocks (CCBs) 50/100 bedded in all the districts with population of more than 5 lakhs during the scheme period i.e. from FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26 including the ICU beds, he noted. Beijing, July 29 : At least 38 people were killed as torrential rain wreaked havoc across China, forcing evacuations and disrupting traffic. Of the 38, Beijing recorded 30 deaths, while eight were killed in Hebei province due to a landslide triggered by heavy rain. The rainstorm alert in the Chinese capital was cancelled on Tuesday as the rainbands weakened and shifted eastward, although showers were still forecast for the afternoon and evening. The city remains at its highest level of flood-control emergency response. In Mentougou District, 15,195 people had been evacuated as of 8 a.m. Tuesday, and all 19 major tourist sites had been closed. In Pinggu District, more than 12,800 people have been relocated, with 40 emergency shelters set up in gyms, schools, hotels and village offices. A total of 34 teams involving 1,073 personnel have been deployed for flood response in Pinggu, Xinhua news agency reported. The city's meteorological bureau said the Chinese capital recorded an average of 72.2 mm of rainfall between 8 p.m. Monday and 10 a.m. Tuesday, with a peak of 196.5 mm reported at Yancun Station in Fangshan District. Authorities confirmed that 30 people had died in Beijing as of midnight Monday, including 28 in Miyun District and two in Yanqing. In Hebei province, a rain-triggered landslide in Luanping County has killed eight people, with four others still missing. Officials said that all residents of the affected village will be relocated as a safety precaution. In neighbouring Tianjin Municipality, more than 10,500 people had been evacuated from Jizhou District after floodwaters entered 13 villages along the Juhe River as of Monday night. "The floodwaters swept right past my doorstep, and even our tricycle was carried away," said a 63-year-old evacuee surnamed Wei. Du Hanyong, principal of a middle school serving as a temporary shelter in Jizhou, said the facility is stocked with sufficient food, water and essentials, and the cafeteria is ready to operate if needed. The downpours have also disrupted rail services. Railway authorities on Tuesday temporarily suspended some trains on the Beijing-Harbin high-speed railway, and multiple trains on a railway linking Beijing with Baotou, a city in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, have been suspended or rerouted. SEOUL, July 29 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's total population slightly rose for the second straight year thanks to a rapid increase in foreign residents, statistical office data showed Tuesday. The total population added 0.1 percent, or 31,000, from a year earlier to 51,806,000 on Nov. 1 in 2024, after inching up 0.2 percent in the previous year, according to the 2024 census by Statistics Korea. Foreign residents, who stayed here for at least three months, gained 5.6 percent to 2,043,000 last year, topping the 2 million mark for the first time. It took up 3.9 percent of the country's total population. More foreigners arrived here for study and jobs amid the extended working visa programs. Local residents fell 0.2 percent to 49,763,000 in the cited period due to the low birth rate and the aging population, keeping a downward trend for the fourth consecutive year. The Asian country has struggled with a chronically low birth rate as young couples delayed or gave up on having babies due to economic difficulties such as high housing prices and stubborn unemployment. The working-age population aged 15-64 decreased 0.8 percent over the year to 36,263,000 in 2024, accounting for 70.0 percent of the total population. The proportion of the working-age population has continued to go down since 2018. The elderly population aged 65 and above swelled 5.3 percent to 10,122,000, but those under the age of 14 declined 3.5 percent to 5,421,000. The aging index, or the number of those aged 65 and older per 100 people aged 14 and younger, jumped to 186.7 in 2024 from 122.3 tallied in 2019. Among 43,065,000 local residents above the age of 18, a total of 12,736,000 people, or 29.6 percent, remained unmarried in 2024. It was up 0.5 percent compared to the previous year. The total number of households reached 22,997,000 in 2024, up 1.2 percent from a year earlier. The number of households residing in Seoul and its surrounding metropolitan area stood at 11,458,000 in 2024, or 49.8 percent of the total households. The average number of family members per household shrank 0.03 over the year to 2.19 last year. The number of single-member households expanded 2.8 percent to 8,045,000, making up 36.1 percent of the total households. The proportion of one-person households kept growing from 15.5 percent in 2000 to 27.2 percent in 2015 and 35.5 percent in 2023. The continued growth in single-person households came from the aging population and the reluctance among the younger generation to get married. The total number of houses climbed 1.7 percent from a year earlier to 19,873,000 on Nov. 1 in 2024, after increasing 2.0 percent in the previous year. After peaking at 5.4 percent in 1995, the annual growth rate of houses had roughly been on the decline. The number of houses in the Seoul metropolitan area ran to 9,285,000 last year, accounting for 46.7 percent of the total. New Delhi, July 29 : Between May 1, 2023, and June 30, 2025, a total of 37,212 companies voluntarily removed their names from official records under Section 248(2) of the Companies Act, 2013, the Parliament was informed on Tuesday. "During the period from 01.05.2023 to 30.06.2025 total number of 37212 companies have availed the exit process under Section 248(2) of the Companies Act, 2013," according to figures furnished by Minister of State for Corporate Affairs Harsh Malhotra, in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha. These companies chose to exit the registry after extinguishing all their liabilities, following the due process prescribed under the law, the minister said. Section 248(2) allows companies to apply for strike-off if they are no longer carrying on business and have cleared all dues. Responding to a question the minister clarified that while the last government-led strike-off drive under Section 248(1) was conducted in 2022-23, no such mass drive is currently underway. "Under Section 248(1), the Registrar of Companies can strike off firms that have not carried out any business or operations for two consecutive financial years and have not applied for dormant status, or where subscribers have not paid the promised share capital within 180 days of incorporation," he mentioned. A voluntary strike-off is when a company decides to close down on its own, with the approval of its shareholders, after clearing all its pending debts and dues. The company then applies to have its name removed from the official register of companies, which means it will no longer exist. This is different from an involuntary strike-off, where the Registrar of Companies (ROC) starts the process to close a company because it has not been following the rules or has been inactive. Chhattisgarh/Thiruvananthapuram, July 29 : A delegation consisting of five lawmakers delegated by the All India Congress Committee (AICC), on Tuesday, met the two arrested nuns currently housed in a jail in Chhattisgarh. Permission was first denied to the delegation while the Kerala BJP General Secretary Anoop Antony was given permission without any problems. It was only after the intervention of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel that the AICC delegation got the permission to meet the two nuns. On Tuesday, a lower court in Chhattisgarh rejected the bail plea of the two nuns and the church is now approaching a Sessions Court on Wednesday. The nuns, Preeti Mary and Vandana Francis, posted with the Assisi Sisters of Mary Immaculate, a congregation under the Syro-Malabar Church in Alappuzha district, were working at a hospital in Agra. On August 26, the two nuns and the man, identified as Sukhman Mandavi, were accompanying three women from Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district to Uttar Pradesh's Agra, where they had been offered jobs as kitchen helpers at a Convent. While they were waiting at the Chhattisgarh railway station, they were stopped by Bajrang Dal activists, and the police also arrived at the spot. Both the nuns and the man were taken into custody and later produced before a local court, which sent them to judicial custody. The lawmakers included Lok Sabha members Benny Behanan (Congress), N.K. Premachandran (Revolutionary Socialist Party), Francis George (Kerala Congress) and Saptagiri S. Ulaka (Congress) and Roji M. John (Congress). The brother of the arrested nun Preeti was also in the delegation. Speaking to the media soon after meeting the two distraught nuns, RSP legislator Premachandran said that they are rattled by what happened to them and continue to be in a state of shock. "It's now crystal clear that the two sisters had no malafide intentions. They are residing in two different places and they met at the railway station in Chhattisgarh. It was at the railway station that angry Bajarang Dal activists started abusing them," he added. "These Bajrang Dal activists searched the bags of the sisters and also the three women. A sum of Rs 2,000 was recovered from one woman and the Bajrang Dal activists was angrily asking if the money was given by the nuns," Premachandran said. Congress legislator Behanan said that all the narratives that were floated at the time of arrest of the nuns has fallen flat. "First they said the three young women are minors, which was proved false as they had their identity cards and also their Aadhar card. Then it was said the women was forcefully taken away, which has been denied by their parents," he added. Biju, brother of Sister Preeti, said that he came all the way from Kerala just to see her and report to our aged parents that I met her. "It was a really emotional meeting and we both broke into tears," Biju said, and added now we feel a bit relieved as we are now seeing to seek bail. What has upset the AICC delegation was despite they being lawmakers they did not get any desired respect, while a BJP leader from Kerala Anoop Antony was given the permission. "We will submit a report to the AICC on the pitiful condition of the two nuns who never did any wrong and we will again raise this issue in the Parliament on Wednesday," Behanan added. Earlier on Tuesday, as a face saving measure Kerala BJP President Rajeev Chandrasekhar cleared the air about the arrest by saying there was a miscommunication. "It's now clear that neither trafficking nor religious conversion has taken place. There was a miscommunication in the incident. We, the BJP, will stand with the nuns till they get justice. If required I myself will reach Chhattisgarh. I have had contacts with the Home Minister there," Chandrasekhar told the media in Delhi. On Wednesday, various churches in Kerala are holding a protest in the way how the constitutional rights of the nuns was violated and they were put in jail. New Delhi, July 29 : India is witnessing a renewed surge in oil and gas exploration with the opening of nearly one million square kilometres of erstwhile 'No-Go' offshore areas in 2022, Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, informed the Parliament on Tuesday. "This move has unlocked significant exploration frontiers, especially in deepwater and frontier regions such as the Andaman-Nicobar (AN) offshore basin, and has been instrumental in triggering the current momentum in offshore activity," the minister said in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha. Since 2015, Exploration and Production (E&P) companies operating in India have reported 172 hydrocarbon discoveries, including 62 in offshore areas. The minister highlighted the geological significance of the AN basin, which lies at the junction of the Andaman and Nicobar Basins within the Bengal-Arakan sedimentary system. The tectonic setting, located at the boundary of the Indian and Burmese plates, has led to the formation of numerous stratigraphic traps that are conducive to hydrocarbon accumulation. This geological promise is further amplified by the basin's proximity to proven petroleum systems in Myanmar and North Sumatra. The region has attracted renewed global interest following significant gas discoveries in South Andaman offshore Indonesia, underlining the geological continuity across the region, the minister said. While the favourable geology sets a strong foundation, Puri emphasised that the real breakthrough has come from the governmentas strategic policy interventions and a new exploration approach. The revised strategy has enabled aggressive acquisition of seismic data, initiation of both stratigraphic and exploratory drilling, and increased engagement with international exploration partners, several of whom have shown keen interest in the newly accessible frontier blocks, he stated. In a significant development, ONGC and Oil India Ltd (OIL) have launched an ambitious exploration campaign in the Andaman ultra-deepwater region. For the first time, drilling operations are targeting depths of up to 5,000 metres. One such wildcat well, ANDW-7, drilled in a carbonate play in the East Andaman Back Arc region, has yielded encouraging geological insights. These include traces of light crude and condensate in cutting samples, heavy hydrocarbons like C-5 neo-pentane in trip gases, the minister further stated. These findings establish, for the first time, the existence of an active thermogenic petroleum system in the region, comparable to those in Myanmar and North Sumatra. While commercial reserves remain to be established, this campaign has validated the presence of a working petroleum system and laid the foundation for focused exploration in the area, the minister said. Providing an overview of the exploration outcomes so far, the minister informed that the ONGC has made hydrocarbon discoveries in 20 blocks, with an estimated reserve of 75 million metric tonnes of oil equivalent (MMTOE). OIL, on its part, has made seven oil and gas discoveries over the past four years, with reserves estimated at 9.8 million barrels of oil and 2,706.3 million standard cubic meters of gas. Kochi, July 29 : Paying thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, Aarti, who saw her 68-year-old father Ramachandran being gunned down by a terrorist in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22, said she was very proud to hear that the three terrorists who took part in the massacre of 26 people, have been killed by the Indian security forces. "I heard the news that the three terrorists who took part in the Pahalgam massacre have been eliminated and I feel proud to be an Indian," said Aarti. "Even though this is not going to bring back my father, I feel this shows the real commitment of our leaders and the security forces. And I feel really proud of being an Indian," added Aarti. In reply to a question Aarti said if she is called by the authorities, since she is a witness to the episode, "I will go and tell them everything." A former Non-Resident Indian who returned from the Middle East five years ago, Aarti's father Ramachandran was a staunch BJP supporter. He had unsuccessfully contested local body polls and was among those shortlisted as a potential BJP candidate for civic elections to be held later this year. Aarti, a mother of twin boys, was often seen breaking down on TV while recounting the horrifying moments when her father was shot dead by a terrorist, in full view of her two children. She, along with her parents, was holidaying in Pahalgam, Kashmir, when Ramachandran was gunned down by the terrorists. It must be recalled that Aarti had said then that the terrorist had put something on her head, following which her sons had cried out aloud. According to her, maybe hearing the cries of the small boys, the terrorist walked away without harming them. The Pahalgam terror attack saw 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen being shot dead by the terrorists. Bhopal, July 29 : Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Tuesday said that excluding Shashi Tharoor and Manish Tewari from the list of speakers for the Operation Sindoor debate in Parliament is the right decision. "This is the party's decision, and I think it's the right decision," said Kamal Nath, who was in Bhopal to attend the second day of the Monsoon session of Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Tuesday. The controversy comes at a time when the Opposition is attempting to mount a strong offensive against the Centre during the high-stakes Operation Sindoor debate in the Parliament. Both Tewari and Tharoor had recently represented India on diplomatic missions abroad as part of New Delhi's outreach following Operation Sindoor. Their absence from the speakers' list -- especially given their expertise and prior involvement -- has drawn sharp public and internal reactions. Most of the Congress leaders have either maintained silence or evaded this question. Some media reports also suggested that Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) MP himself opted not to take part in the debate on 'Operation Sindoor'; however, Kamal Nath's statement indicated that it was a well-planned step of the Congress to exclude their names from the speakersa list. Kamal Nath, who is MLA from his hometown Chhindwara, however, said since he has come to attend the Monsoon session of the State Assembly, he would speak on the state's issues. He also accused the Chief Minister Mohan Yadav-led BJP government of making 'fake promises' to the people of Madhya Pradesh. "If MLAs ask some questions in the House, they are being given assurances instead of a reply to any issue. This is the situation in Madhya Pradesh. If someone asks how many announcements former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and now his successor Mohan Yadav have made, there is no record of it," Kamal Nath said. Upon reaching the Assembly, Kamal Nath, who is among the senior-most MLAs in the state, met Speaker Narendra Singh Tomar at his office. Senior BJP leader, Parliamentary Affairs Minister for State, Kailash Vijayvargiya, and Prahlad Patel also joined him at Tomar's office. The Monsoon session of the MP Assembly started on Monday, and it is scheduled to be concluded on August 8. --IANS pd/dan Quetta, July 29 : A 15-year-old Baloch teenager was forcibly disappeared by Pakistani security forces from Kech district in Balochistan, amid an ongoing wave of enforced disappearances across the province, said a leading human rights organisation on Tuesday. Raising concerns, Paank, the Baloch National Movement's Human Rights Department, said that on July 24, 15-year-old Qamber Fida was abducted from his house in the Tump tehsil of Kech district in Meerabad. "His abduction without charge or due process is a clear violation of international human rights law and constitutes a crime under the definition of enforced disappearance," the rights body said. Paank strongly denounced the "ongoing crimes against humanity" in Balochistan, including "arbitrary detentions, disappearances, and repression of dissent". The human rights body called on the Pakistani authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Qamber Fida and ensure his safety, saying that "all enforced disappearances must end, and those responsible must be held accountable". "The rights to life, liberty, and security must be upheld without exception. Baloch lives matter, and the world must not stay silent," Paank asserted. Meanwhile, another human rights organisation, Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), on Tuesday, demanded an immediate end to the mental and physical torture of a political activist, Imran Baloch, by the Pakistani authorities in Gwadar Jail of the province. "Baloch political activist Imran Baloch was detained four months ago under the 'Maintenance of Public Order (3 MPO)' and transferred to Gwadani Jail, where he remains imprisoned. Imran Baloch is being deprived of basic human rights in jail. Not only are medical facilities not being provided to him, but Imran is also being subjected to severe mental and physical torture," said a statement issued by BYC. "He is under constant surveillance day and night, and he is kept confined in a single room for 24 hours, where basic necessities such as light, fresh air, and proper food are not available. Imran Baloch is not allowed to meet with his lawyers or family, and he is being kept completely uninformed about his health condition, which has put his life at serious risk," the statement added. The BYC appealed to human rights organisations to take notice of this "inhumane treatment" by Pakistani authorities and play their role in ensuring the "immediate and safe release of Imran Baloch". New Delhi, July 29 : Talks on maritime security, technological collaboration and strengthening naval synergy are expected to top the agenda as Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi begins a four-day official visit to Japan on Wednesday, an official said. Admiral Tripathi's visit from July 30 to August 2 is part of the ongoing efforts to consolidate bilateral defence relations between India and Japan, said a Defence Ministry statement. The visit is in line with the deepening 'Special Strategic and Global Partnership', with a focus on enhancing maritime cooperation. During the visit, the CNS is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with senior Japanese government officials, including Minister of Defence Nakatani Gen, Vice-Minister of Defence Masuda Kazuo, and a meeting with Admiral Saito Akira, Chief of Staff, Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF). The CNS will also visit JMSDF units and interact with the Commander-in-Chief, Self Defence Fleet, at Funakoshi JMSDF Base. Admiral Tripathi's engagements in Japan are poised to further deepen the bonds of friendship and defence cooperation, paving the way for enhanced mutual understanding in key areas of shared strategic and maritime interest. The visit reaffirms the time-tested India-Japan friendship anchored in mutual respect, maritime trust, and a shared vision for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Earlier this month, Japan Coast Guard (JCG) Ship Itsukushima, commanded by Captain Naoki Mizoguchi, arrived at Chennai Port on July 7 as part of its Global Ocean Voyage Training, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and JCG in the Indo-Pacific. The week-long port call included high-level bilateral meetings, joint professional and cultural exchanges, and a sea exercise aimed at boosting interoperability between the two forces. During the port call, crew members engaged in courtesy calls, reciprocal ship visits, joint training sessions, yoga, and sporting events, culminating in a joint sea exercise 'Jaa Mata' (see you later) on July 12. As a symbol of growing cooperation, four ICG officers sailed onboard Itsukushima to Singapore as Sea Riders, continuing the tradition of professional exchange. This engagement builds on the 2006 Memorandum of Cooperation between India and Japan, aligned with India's Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) vision and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). Seoul, July 29 : The South Korean Foreign Minister, Cho Hyun said Tuesday he believes his visit to Japan before going to the United States will help "upgrade" not only the bilateral ties with Tokyo, but also trilateral cooperation among the three countries. Cho made the remark ahead of his departure for Tokyo, where he was scheduled to meet one-on-one with Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya for the first time since taking office early last week. The foreign ministry announced Monday that Cho will visit Japan before flying to Washington later this week for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Yonhap news agency reported. "The reason I am going to Japan first is because I believe it will help upgrade not only our bilateral relations with Japan, but also trilateral cooperation with the US and Japan," Cho told reporters at Gimpo International Airport ahead of his departure. "I don't think there has ever been a case where a foreign minister's first trip abroad after taking office was to Japan," he said. Cho's decision to stop in Japan before the US is seen as atypical, as newly appointed foreign ministers have generally chosen Washington as their first stop for diplomatic talks. With Iwaya, Cho said he will discuss ways the two sides can work together to advance the bilateral relations in a "forward-looking" manner, as well as issues related to the situation in Northeast Asia and beyond. "Discussions could include long-running historical issues," Cho said. "It is crucial to take a long-term approach and identify mutually beneficial issues for discussion, for a future-oriented Korea-Japan relationship." Cho also said he plans to convey a message to Japan regarding President Lee Jae Myung's "strong commitment" to continuing "shuttle diplomacy" of regular visits by leaders, restored by the two countries' previous leaders. In Washington, Cho said he plans to have broad discussions with Rubio on the alliance and other shared issues, including the notion of "modernisation of alliance" as recently mentioned by the US administration. The concept is largely seen as reflecting US calls for its allies to shoulder more of the defence burden and its focus on addressing an assertive China. Cho's two-nation swing also comes as South Korea's tariff negotiations with the US are at a critical juncture this week amid the looming August 1 deadline set by the Donald Trump administration. Unless a trade deal is reached, South Korean goods will be subject to a 25 per cent US reciprocal tariff and sectoral duties. "I plan to provide as much support as possible (for the tariff negotiations)," Cho said. Male, July 29 : Maldives' Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Abdullah Khaleel called on visiting Sri Lankan President Anura Dissanayake for a wide-ranging discussion focused on strengthening bilateral ties and exploring new areas of cooperation. Taking to X, Khaleel described the meeting as a privilege and emphasised the constructive nature of the engagement. "We had a meaningful discussion on the enduring and evolving partnership between Maldives and Sri Lanka. I conveyed heartfelt appreciation for Sri Lanka's continued support and goodwill towards the Maldives," he wrote. The Maldivian minister highlighted that the talks addressed new areas of collaboration, particularly in improving consular services and boosting people-to-people exchanges. "We discussed new avenues for collaboration, including strengthening people-to-people connections and providing efficient consular services to our citizens," he added. The visit underscores the close and longstanding ties between the two Indian Ocean island nations, which have historically shared strong relations in areas such as tourism, trade, education, and regional cooperation. The Maldives and Sri Lanka have consistently supported each other on regional and multilateral platforms. Enhanced diplomatic visits in recent months reflect the renewed emphasis by both countries on deepening regional partnerships and citizen-focused diplomacy. According to an official statement released by the Sri Lankan President, Sri Lanka and the Maldives have enjoyed longstanding relations dating back centuries. The two countries, being Indian Ocean littoral states, have been enriched by their association with the ancient maritime trade routes and shared histories. Both countries are committed towards environmental protection, with Sri Lanka embarking on the 'Clean Sri Lanka' Programme, which was implemented through the three main pillars of social development, environmental development and ethical development to sustainably elevate the island country and the entire Sri Lankan society to a higher level. While commending President Muizzu for the successful implementation of the 'Maldives Clean Environment' Project for solid waste management, Dissanayake acknowledged the importance of the collaborative efforts in countering the challenge of climate change and global warming, in the release. The Sri Lankan President's visit to Male is seen as part of the Maldives' broader foreign policy direction under President Mohamed Muizzu, aimed at reinforcing cooperation with South Asian neighbours. These discussions are expected to contribute positively to bilateral engagement and future collaboration between the two countries. Dhaka, July 29 : Bangladesh's National Citizen Party (NCP) on Tuesday demanded a legal framework for July Charter prior to the next parliamentary polls. NCP leader raised the demand at a press briefing during the lunch break of the 21st session of the second-round reform dialogue between the National Consensus Commission (NCC) and political parties in Dhaka's Foreign Service Academy. In a statement, NCP Joint Convenor Javed Rasin said, "We've clearly said that the implementation of the consensus points reached in the dialogue must be ensured through a legal framework before the election, and the next parliament election must be held based on that." Rasin said NCP has made its stance clear to the NCC verbally and will present it in writing, if required, United News of Bangladesh reported. He said the commission mentioned about six decision-making methods. However, it released the draft charter suddenly without holding consultations on those methods. He said, "This is not a proper approach." He further stated, "We strongly oppose this. There has not even been a discussion about the procedures of decision-making. Releasing a draft without that is unacceptable to us." On the interim government issue, he stated that the discussion for several days focused on the ranked choice voting method to choose the caretaker government chief. Under the latest proposal, two additional members from the judiciary would be included to set up a seven-member committee that will vote in the ranked choice system. He expressed NCP's support for the proposal. Javed Rasin said, "We support this proposal. Almost all political parties agree with it except BNP and a few of its allies." NCP leader stated that his party has emphasised the need for enforcing fundamental reforms needed to dismantle what he termed as the existing fascist structure. He further stated, "If these reforms are not implemented, NCP will hold internal discussions on whether to sign the July Charter." On Sunday, National Citizen Party Convener Nahid Islam threatened to stage a sit-in protest at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka if the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government fails to announce the 'July Charter' by August 5, local media reported on Monday. Addressing a rally organised by the party's Sherpur district unit on Sunday, Nahid said, "We will return to Dhaka on August 3. We will not leave the Shaheed Minar (premises) without realising our demand (for the July Charter)." "Almost a year has passed, yet the interim government has failed to prepare the July Charter. Now, we hear that it might be announced within a few days. But if the fundamental reforms are not carried out, and if they are not included in the July Charter, then the NCP will not endorse the charter," he added. Reiterating his party's demand, Nahid called for the formation of an upper house in Parliament and the holding of elections under a proportional representation (PR) system, The Daily Star reported. He also demanded curbing the powers of the Prime Minister in the new reform structure, as the leading Bangladeshi newspaper. BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- In Daofu, a quaint county in southwest China's Sichuan Province, traditional Tibetan homes have been beautifully transformed into cafes, seamlessly blending international favorites like coffee with local treats such as butter tea and highland barley. "Sipping highland latte while listening to Tibetan folk songs and learning Thangka painting -- what a perfect way to unwind!" exclaimed tourist Xu Xiaomei. In this county, which is filled with Tibetan heritage, cafes don't just serve drinks -- they offer local culture. "Even our coffee cups are custom-made from Daofu's black pottery," said Gao Yaojun, a local hotel manager, at the hotel's cafe. Daofu now welcomes more than 1.5 million coffee-related tourist visits each year, reflecting the wider boom of cafe culture in China's countryside. As of 2024, over 44,000 countryside coffee shops have sprung up nationwide. To stand out in an increasingly crowded space, many rural cafes are turning to the "coffee+" model, which pairs coffee with experiences like hiking, handicrafts, or farm visits. It's not just about sipping a latte -- it's about discovering what makes each place special. In southwest China's Guizhou Province, for example, a cafe perched on a 200-meter-high cliff has gone viral online. Adventurous visitors embark on a challenging trek through the forest and climb the cliffs to reach it, with the entire experience costing nearly 400 yuan (about 55.7 U.S. dollars) per person. Similar adrenaline-fueled cafes have also emerged in provinces like Zhejiang and Fujian. In south China's Yunnan Province, one of the country's key habitats for wild Asian elephants, guests at a cafe in Pu'er can sip freshly brewed coffee while watching elephants roam and forage in the distant forests. Some cafes have chosen to tap into their agricultural roots. As China's primary coffee-producing region, Yunnan offers visitors the chance to sip locally grown brews while exploring plantations and roasteries. In Wanning, China's island province of Hainan, coffee farm cafes let visitors roast their own beans, blending agritourism with beverage culture. And the leftover coffee grounds are turned into eco-friendly crafts like sand paintings, murals, and scented accessories. This rural cafe boom is largely fueled by urbanites seeking weekend escapes into nature. In the first quarter of 2025, rural tourism in China welcomed 707 million visitors, an 8.9 percent year-on-year increase. Revenue reached 412 billion yuan, up 5.6 percent. The cafe boom is also energizing local economies. In Anji County, Zhejiang, a rural region with under 600,000 residents, more than 300 countryside cafes have opened in recent years. Cafes here often operate on a community co-op model: villagers and collectives invest land or resources, cafe managing teams handle operations, and profits are shared through rent, wages, and dividends. Deep Blue, one of Anji's most popular cafes, returns nearly half of its coffee sales revenue to local shareholders. "You've got to admire how brilliantly resourceful these young people are," said one villager. The rise of rural cafes is also reversing urban migration. Many young entrepreneurs are returning to their hometowns, drawn by the potential of rural development. Among them is Wang Han, 27, from Xinzhai Village in Yunnan. After working in Shenzhen and Kunming, Wang returned in 2020 to open a cafe and an online coffee business. "There's something worth coming back for. Now visitors from across China come to tour our coffee fields and taste our brews," he said. At Deep Blue, its 127 staff members have an average age of 25 and backgrounds ranging from medicine to shipbuilding, according to founder Cheng Shuoqin, who grew up in Anji and launched his business in 2022, along with six partners. Cheng believes concerns about market saturation are premature. More well-educated young talent is still on their way to the countryside, he said. "The more young people return, the brighter the future of the countryside." Seoul, July 29 : President of South Korea, Lee Jae Myung, on Tuesday called for stronger workplace safety measures to prevent fatal industrial accidents and tougher punishments against violators. Lee made the remarks during a Cabinet meeting that was aired live, following the fifth fatal workplace accident this year at a construction site operated by POSCO E&C Co., a subsidiary of steelmaker POSCO. A worker in his 60s was killed Monday after being caught in a drilling machine at the company's construction site in Uiryeong County, about 357 kilometres south of Seoul. "When fatal accidents occur in the same way, it ultimately amounts to condoning these deaths," he said. "To put it bluntly, in legal terms, it could be considered murder through willful negligence." Lee said the repeated accidents reflect an attitude that such deaths are inevitable, calling the situation "truly heartbreaking." "These are accidents that could have been fully anticipated, yet no preventive measures were taken," Lee said, adding that he could consider visiting a POSCO E&C site in person. On Friday, Lee visited a bread factory of SPC Samlip Co., where six workers have died in industrial accidents since 2022, and urged stronger measures to prevent industrial accidents from recurring. Lee also called for stronger penalties for those who fail to implement safety measures to prevent industrial accidents, Yonhap news agency reported. "If the same types of fatal incidents continue to occur, it would be appropriate to consider pursuing punitive damages" against violators, he said. In response, Labour Minister Kim Young-hoon said his ministry will review various measures against companies involved in fatal industrial accidents, including criminal punishment, punitive damage claims, restrictions on bidding for public projects and even business suspensions. POSCO E&C President Jeong Hee-min issued an apology, saying he feels "heavy responsibility" for the series of fatal accidents. The company has halted operations at all construction sites since Monday's accident and will not resume them until their safety is confirmed through an emergency safety inspection, he added. New Delhi, July 29 : In a scathing address in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not giving operational freedom and operational maneuver to the Armed Forces during Operation Sindoor. Speaking in Parliament during the discussion on Operation Sindoor, LoP Rahul Gandhi said, "Our jawans (soldiers) are tigers, but you cannot cage a tiger and expect it to fight. The Army needs full political will and complete freedom of action, just like it had in 1971 under Indira Gandhi." Drawing a comparison between the 1971 war and the Operation Sindoor, Gandhi noted that Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw had demanded six months to prepare for the Bangladesh Liberation War, and Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had agreeddemonstrating true political will. "One lakh Pakistani soldiers surrendered. That was the result of real political backing," he said. He criticised Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's statement that Operation Sindoor lasted 22 minutes and that India informed Pakistan immediately after the strike that only non-military targets were hit and escalation was not desired. "You told Pakistan your limits, that you didn't have the political will to strike military targets. You essentially surrendered in 30 minutes," Gandhi alleged. He also cited comments from India's Defence Attache to Indonesia, Captain Shiv Kumar, arguing that he had hinted at political constraints during the operation. "The Air Force made no mistake. The mistake was of political leadership. Their hands were tied," Gandhi added. It is pertinent to note here that Cap Shiv Kumar had earlier said that ".I do agree that we did lose some aircraft and that happened only because of the constraint given by the political leadership to not attack the military establishments and their air defences." Rahul Gandhi further claimed that the motive behind Operation Sindoor was to protect PM Modi's global image, stating, "The Prime Minister had blood on his hands after Pahalgam, and he used the Air Force to wash it off." Taking aim at External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Gandhi pointed out that no country, not even neighbours, condemned Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack. "Countries only condemned terrorism in general. This shows that the world now equates India with Pakistan." He also raised concerns over growing China-Pakistan military collaboration, referring to shared intelligence and joint command presence in PLA theatres. "Our biggest foreign policy challenge is to de-link China and Pakistan, but this government has allowed them to fuse into a single unified front," he warned. On US President Donald Trump's continuous comments that he brought the ceasefire, Gandhi dared PM Modi to publicly refute U.S. President Donald Trump's claims that he brokered the Operation Sindoor ceasefire. "If the Prime Minister has even 50 per cent of Indira Gandhi's courage, he should stand in Parliament and say Trump lied," he said. New Delhi, July 29 : Today marks the 30th anniversary of India's first cellphone call, made from Kolkata on July 29, 1995. Since then, India's telecom sector has grown tremendously, and the country is now the world's second-largest telecom market, with over 1.2 billion subscribers. Around 85.5 per cent of Indian households own at least one smartphone as of early 2025. India's tariff rates are among the lowest in the world, which fuelled the Digital India movement and, in turn, encouraged growth across every sector. An Indian subscriber now uses over 21 GB of data each month on average, which is a testament to the world-class infrastructure developed by leading Indian telecom operators. Lt. Gen. Dr. S.P. Kochhar, Director General, Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), said, "Relentless efforts from the government and the industry have ensured the reach of digital connectivity, even to villages that once remained off the digital grid. India's fastest rollout of 5G in the world has been nothing short of transformative. Today, over 85 per cent of India's population and over 99 per cent of the districts in India enjoy access to 5G services, powering innovations from remote education to telemedicine and smart agriculture." "India is not just a participant in this global revolution, it is further actively shaping the conversation around the future of 6G, setting benchmarks for digital inclusivity, innovation and leadership," Kochhar added. Tarun Chhabra, Sr. Vice President and Country Head, Nokia India said, "We've played a pivotal role in India's remarkable strides in technology and connectivity in recent decades. Our journey has witnessed several milestones, including first ever GSM call in India in 1995 on a Nokia phone over a Nokia supplied network, bringing 3G services in 2011, pioneering 4G/LTE technology in 2012, and introducing 5G to India in 2022." Anku Jain, Managing Director, MediaTek India said, "Since the first phone call made in 1995 on a feature phone, India has evolved into the world's second-largest 5G smartphone market. India's swift adoption of advanced networks, from extensive 4G coverage to an accelerating 5G rollout projected to reach 980 million subscriptions by 2030, truly underscores the nation's digital ambition and commitment to inclusive connectivity." ---IANS pk Dhaka, July 29 : The National Consensus Commission (NCC) of Bangladesh has urged the political parties participating in the second round of the dialogue to pledge their commitment to implement the reform proposals outlined in the draft of 'July National Charter 2025', within two years of forming the government after the next general election, local media reported. Confirming the development, Ali Riaz, Vice-Chairman of the Consensus Commission, said that on Monday, the draft document had been handed over to all parties engaged in the reform dialogue. "We commit to completing all necessary constitutional and legal reforms within two years of the formation of the government that follows the adoption of this Charter, to ensure their sustainability," the draft said. The Commission, which is expected to finalise the charter by July 31, has asked the political parties to submit their opinions by Wednesday, Bangaldesh's leading newspaper The Daily Star reported. Reports suggest that during the second round of the dialogue, the commission held discussions on 20 issues and reached an agreement only on 12 amid disputes among major political parties. Various issues, including the formation of the caretaker government and appointment process of the Chief Adviser of the caretaker government, fundamental principles of state policy, appointment committee for constitutional and statutory bodies, formation process and structure of the Upper House, women's seats in the Parliament and election process of the President were not resolved. Last month, the second phase of discussions involving 30 political parties and the NCC was launched as political uncertainty and instability continued to grip the country. The latest round of talks was aimed at completing the recommendations of various reform commissions set by the interim government under Muhammad Yunus and drafting the July Charter. Reports suggest that as preparations for the 13th National Parliamentary election of Bangladesh began, Chief Advisor Yunus held a meeting with top officials of the law enforcement agencies in the country, as confirmed by the Chief Advisor's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. Bangladesh has been gripped by extreme lawlessness since the Yunus-led interim government assumed power following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Meanwhile in a separate development, Home Affairs Advisor of the interim government, Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, alleged that the interim government is not getting cooperation from relevant authorities to control the growing menace of drugs in the country. Addressing reporters after a meeting of the core committee on law and order at the Secretariat in Dhaka on Monday afternoon, he made the remarks without naming anyone. "Drugs have infiltrated our society. Although the number of arrests has increased, only the carriers are being caught, but the godfathers are not being caught. We have several organisations behind the godfathers not being caught, and they also bear some responsibility. We are not getting all kinds of cooperation from everyone. I don't want to say for now who I am not getting cooperation from," the Home Advisor said. New Delhi, July 29 : Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a scathing attack at the government over the Pahalgam terror attack and accused it of tying the hands of the Indian Armed forces, which he claimed was the reason for 'tactical losses' during the Operation Sindoor. Joining the Op Sindoor debate in Lok Sabha, the Congress MP said that the government lacked political will in punishing the Pahalgam perpetrators, teaching the enemy a lesson and also went to drew a comparison with the 1971 war, when the then government bifurcated Pakistan into two parts. "Yesterday, the Defence Minister compared the 1971 war with Operation Sindoor. I must add that this government's resolve stands nowhere close to the then Congress leadership." LoP Rahul Gandhi stated that political will and freedom of operation are the two most important components for winning any battle, and this government utterly lacks that courage. Citing instances of Indira Gandhi's government's political will, he said that when General Manekshaw demanded it six times, she gave that freedom, and the operation concluded only after dividing Pakistan into two parts. He further accused the government of agreeing to a 'ceasefire', just minutes after the armed forces vaporised the terror bases in Pakistan, stating that if this was not the testament of weak political will, then what was it? "I was surprised to hear Rajnath Singh reveal that the Operation Sindoor began at 1.05 AM in the morning, ended in 22 minutes and then at 1.35 AM, the Indian government told the Pakistani counterpart that we have hit non-military targets and don't want any escalation," LoP Rahul Gandhi said in the House. The Congress leader also referred to senior armed forces officers' admission of losses during Operation Sindoor and pinned the blame on the government for setbacks, including the downing of jets, as reported in the media. "Capt Shiv Kumar, Defence Attache in Indonesia, said that we did lose some aircraft and that happened only because of the constraints set by political leadership to not attack the military targets and installations," he said and also referred to the acceptance of tactical losses by CDS Anil Chauhan. Sharpening his pitch, LoP Rahul Gandhi praised the Armed Forces but held the government responsible for the 'losses and setbacks' during the operation. Launching a frontal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he challenged him to call out the US President's lies on forcing a ceasefire between India and Pakistan and also claimed that the Operation Sindoor was executed to bolster his image, in a wave of ghastly terror attacks in Pahalgam. "The US president has taken credit for the truce for the 29th time. If the Prime Minister has the courage, as that of Indira Gandhi, he must declare in the House that Trump is a liar," said the Congress leader. New Delhi, July 29 : Even though Congress MP Shashi Tharoor was not chosen by his party to participate in the debate on Operation Sindoor, he has submitted a written representation to the Ministry of Defence regarding the BrahMos plant in his constituency, Thiruvananthapuram. In the letter, he has highlighted serious concerns over the future of a key defence facility in his constituency -- BrahMos Aerospace Thiruvananthapuram Limited (BATL). Tharoor has drawn the attention of the government to recent developments that have triggered uncertainty among employees of BATL, a critical manufacturing unit for the BrahMos missile programme. "I wish to draw the attention of the Ministry of Defence to a matter of urgent public importance concerning the employees and future of BrahMos Aerospace Thiruvananthapuram Limited, a key defence production unit located in my parliamentary constituency," Tharoor stated. Established in 2008 as a wholly owned subsidiary of BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL), BATL has been instrumental in producing high-precision components, engines, and other critical systems for the supersonic BrahMos missile. Tharoor noted that the facility and its workforce have played a pivotal role in strengthening India's strategic defence capabilities, including during the recent Operation Sindoor involving BrahMos missiles. However, the Congress MP expressed concern over what he described as a sudden and opaque move to delink BATL from BAPL. "It has now emerged -- through recent BAPL Board and AGM proceedings -- that BATL is to be delinked from BAPL. This decision, reportedly taken without prior consultation with the Kerala Government, key stakeholders, or the BrahMos Staff Association (INTUC) and Employees' Union (AITUC), has caused widespread anxiety among employees," he said. Tharoor warned that such a move, if carried out without adequate safeguards, could lead to uncertainty over job security and disrupt operations at a time when India is ramping up its indigenous defence production. He urged the central government to take corrective measures and consider possible alternatives to safeguard the interests of both national defence and the workforce. He has suggested retaining BATL under BAPL to ensure operational continuity and protect existing employment, apart from reconstituting BATL as a Direct Production Centre under DRDO, with the same employment benefits as DRDO lab personnel. "Given BATL's strategic role in the defence manufacturing ecosystem and the serious concerns expressed by its employees and unions, I request the Hon'ble Minister of Defence and the Government to urgently intervene and resolve the matter in a manner that ensures both operational stability and social justice," Tharoor said. New Delhi, July 29 : A major scandal has hit Sri Lanka's electric vehicle sector, with John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) -- one of the country's most prominent blue-chip companies -- allegedly under investigation for a possible Rs 3 billion tax fraud. New Delhi, July 29 (IANS) A major scandal has hit Sri Lankaas electric vehicle sector, with John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) -- one of the countryas most prominent blue-chip companies -- allegedly under investigation for a possible Rs 3 billion tax fraud. The case reportedly involves the import of more than 1,000 BYD Atto 3 electric SUVs under its subsidiary brand, JKCG Auto, according to reports. Sri Lanka Customs has confirmed that a shipment of these vehicles was detained at the Port of Colombo amid a dispute over their declared motor capacity, which determines the amount of import duty charged, Lanka News reported. Import documents are said to have declared the vehicles as having 100kW motors, which would place them in a lower tax bracket of around Rs 2.4 million per unit. However, inspections and independent technical assessments have reportedly raised concerns that the vehicles may actually be fitted with 150kW motors -- a specification that would require an import duty of about Rs 5.4 million each. The difference in classification could amount to billions of rupees in unpaid taxes. Reports suggest that nearly all the vehicles in question have already been sold and registered to private buyers. Some customers have allegedly been warned that they could face retroactive tax bills or even recalls if the investigation confirms the higher motor capacity. John Keells Holdings has denied any wrongdoing, stating that the vehicles were imported in full compliance with manufacturer documentation and that the Sri Lankan variant is tuned to 100kW, similar to versions sold in Nepal and Singapore, according to the report. The Customs Directorate of Revenue Protection has reportedly begun a forensic investigation into every BYD Atto 3 imported since 2023, including vehicles already sold to customers. Industry observers warn that if over 1,000 vehicles are reclassified as 150kW models, buyers could face additional tax bills of up to Rs. 4 million each -- potentially triggering a wave of legal disputes. Damascus, July 29 : The Syrian interim authorities, in coordination with international organisations and local community partners, dispatched a fourth humanitarian aid convoy on Tuesday from Damascus to the southern Sweida province, according to state media. The convoy, comprising 22 trucks, carried 27,000 litres of fuel, 2,000 food baskets, 2,000 hygiene kits, 10,000 bottles of drinking water, 40 tons of flour, and various medical supplies, the official SANA news agency reported. The delivery is part of ongoing efforts to support civilian populations in Sweida, which has experienced recent unrest and shortages following clashes and a fragile ceasefire agreement earlier this month. This marks the fourth convoy sent to the province since the agreement was reached. The aid comes amid reports of protests in parts of Sweida, where demonstrators have accused the interim government of imposing a de facto siege on the region, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based monitoring group. The observatory said civilians have taken to the streets in some areas, demanding improved access to basic services and humanitarian relief. Declared on July 19, the ceasefire followed a harrowing wave of sectarian clashes, Israeli airstrikes and grave human rights violations, Xinhua news agency reported. UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen told ambassadors in the Security Council on Monday that the recent escalation had "rocked" the country's already precarious transition, and highlighted the need for "major course corrections" on security and political fronts. "Syrians are reeling after appalling violence in Sweida -- violence that should not have happened and which also saw unacceptable foreign intervention," Pedersen said. According to the UN, unrest erupted on the evening of July 12 following a series of mutual kidnappings that escalated into armed clashes between Druze factions and Bedouin tribes, eventually drawing in Syrian security forces. The violence quickly spiralled, with reports of extrajudicial executions and looting. Graphic footage circulated widely on social media, fueling sectarian tensions and the spread of disinformation. Although active fighting has largely subsided, Pedersen warned that the situation "remains tense and volatile." Civilians have borne the brunt of the violence, with hundreds reportedly killed and widespread accounts of abuses committed by both state and non-state actors. "I condemn the appalling violations committed against civilians and combatants in Sweida. I also condemn Israel's intervention," Pedersen said, referring to recent Israeli airstrikes near Sweida and Damascus that reportedly resulted in civilian and military casualties. Patna, July 29 : Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday inaugurated the much-awaited Buddha Samyak Darshan Museum-cum-Smriti Stupa in Vaishali, a grand cultural and spiritual monument that has been developed over six years at a cost of Rs 550.48 crore. Spread across 72 acres, the memorial complex spans both Vaishali and Muzaffarpur districts and stands as a tribute to the global Buddhist legacy of Bihar. The sprawling site, built by the Building Construction Department, includes a library, visitor centre, museum block, amphitheatre, meditation centre, cafeteria, a 500 KW solar power plant, parking, and other state-of-the-art facilities all designed to enhance the experience of both domestic and international tourists. On the occasion, CM Nitish Kumar was joined by Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, Minister Vijay Chaudhary, and other NDA leaders. The inauguration was marked by the presence of Buddhist monks from 15 countries, who participated in ritual worship ceremonies before the CM conducted a detailed inspection of the premises. A special highlight of the event was the installation of the holy bone urn of Lord Buddha on the first floor of the museum. This sacred relic, discovered during the 195862 excavation of the Mud Stupa, holds immense historical and religious significance and is regarded as one of the most authentic relics, even referenced by Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang. The Smriti Stupa itself is a marvel of architecture, constructed using 42,373 sandstone blocks from Bansi Paharpur in Rajasthan, assembled using a tongue-and-groove technique to ensure both aesthetic and seismic strength. A grand statue of Lord Buddha, sculpted by artisans from Odisha, further enhances the spiritual aura of the site. Ahead of the event, Nitish Kumar shared his thoughts on the social media platform X stating, "It is a pleasure to inform that the Buddha Samyak Darshan Museum-cum-Smriti Stupa, Vaishali, is being inaugurated on July 29, 2025. Monks and Buddhists from around 15 countries are attending this moment of pride for all Biharis." He further emphasised that he had personally monitored the progress of the project to ensure timely and high-quality completion. The CM reiterated Vaishali's historic role in Buddhism, being the place where first republican governance was established and where women were first inducted into the Buddhist Sangha. According to Bihar Tourism Department Secretary Pranav Kumar, "This museum-cum-stupa is a grand symbol of Bihar's cultural and Buddhist heritage. It will not only place Vaishali on the global Buddhist tourism map but also revive local culture, tourism, and employment opportunities." Its proximity to the historic Pushkarni pond and the original Mud Stupa site further elevates its heritage value. The site's eco-friendly design and green landscaping aim to provide visitors with a spiritually enriching and environmentally conscious experience. Rome, July 29 : A statue of Maharshi Valmiki, the revered sage who authored the epic Ramayana in Sanskrit, was unveiled at Camporotondo in Italy, by the Indian Ambassador of India to Italy, Vani Rao, and Mayor Massimiliano Micucci. The statue has been gifted by the Indian government as part of its outreach. Under the initiative of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) 'Connecting the world through Ramayana', the occasion witnessed participation from the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) in Italy, Amararam Gurjar, and the Indian diaspora, including the Balmiki community. "A statue of Maharshi Valmiki, gifted by the Indian government was unveiled by Ambassador Vani Rao & Mayor Massimiliano Micucci at Camporotondo. DCM Amararam Gurjar and Indian Diaspora, including from Balmiki community participated. Maharshi Valmiki authored the Ramayana, the Indian epic in Sanskrit language. Indian Council for Cultural Relations supported the initiative under 'Connecting the world through Ramayana'," Embassy of India in Rome posted on X. The Ramayana transcends borders and unites people worldwide, offering inspiration and moral lessons. Celebrating one of the world's largest epics, ICCR launched the "Year of Connecting the World through Ramayana-2024". This initiative aims to strengthen global cooperation, promote shared heritage, and encourage joint cultural productions, embodying the principle of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family). India and Italy are ancient civilisations with rich cultural heritage. Italian port cities were important trading posts on the ancient spice route. The Venetian merchant Marco Polo, during his travels to the East, travelled to India in the 13th century and wrote about his experiences. The diplomatic relations between India and Italy were established in 1947. The two countries enjoy strong people-to-people connections propelled by a large Indian diaspora and long-standing Indological Studies tradition in Italy. Emphasising the deep cultural ties, in 2023, an Executive Programme on Cultural Cooperation for 2023-27 was signed between India and Italy. Earlier, an ICCR troupe, "Panihari Lok Sangeet," performed Rajasthani folk dances in four cities for the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in July 2023. Mahatma Gandhi's bust, gifted by ICCR, was unveiled in Brindisi by the Ambassador Vani Rao, and the Mayor of Brindisi, Giuseppe Marchionna, on August 7, 2024. Gandhi Jayanti was celebrated at many locations in Italy in October 2024. Furthermore, Tagore Jayanti was also celebrated by the Embassy of India, while Diwali was celebrated in the Senate in 2024 by the Italian Hinduist Union. MOSCOW, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Russia's flag-carrier Aeroflot announced on Tuesday that over 90 percent of its scheduled flights to and from Moscow would resume operations, a day after its information systems were hacked. "As of today, 93 percent of flights to and from Moscow are scheduled to operate according to the original timetable -- 216 round-trip flights out of 233," the carrier stated. Previously, a hacker attack disrupted Aeroflot's information systems, prompting Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport to cancel or delay dozens of flights. On July 28, the airline operated approximately 80 percent of its planned daily flights. "Schedule adjustments, including cancellations, mainly affected flights from Moscow and back," the carrier said, adding that its website was functioning correctly and there were no failures in the flight booking system. Russia's General Prosecutor's Office has taken control of the situation at Sheremetyevo Airport and reported that a criminal case has been opened over unauthorized access to computer information. Anton Gorelkin, first deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy, called on major Russian companies not to ease efforts to ensure digital security after the Aeroflot attack. "We simply need our large companies to recognize that an information war is being waged against us," Gorelkin said. He noted that the digital component of war is evolving today, will continue to advance, and will dominate future military conflicts. New Delhi, July 29 : The Centre on Tuesday debunked fake profiles impersonating the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on the professional networking site LinkedIn. Taking to the social media platform X, the Press and Information Bureau's (PIB) Fact Check team informed that the Ministry of Health does not have an account on LinkedIn. It also requested people to be careful of such fake accounts. The post also urged people to be alert and not to trust or interact with such accounts, as they may spread false information. "Is the Ministry of Health on LinkedIn? No! This LinkedIn profile is fake," PIB Fact Check posted on X. At least three such accounts were identified by the PIB fact-check team for impersonating the Health Ministry. One of the fake accounts also had its location mentioned as Beijing, China, and had at least 32,000 followers. "The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (@MoHFW_INDIA) has NO official LinkedIn account. Stay alert. Always rely on official sources for verified information!" PIB Fact Check said. Earlier, a widely circulated WhatsApp message claiming that the Centre has launched a new scheme to address the blood requirement in the country was also flagged by the PIB Fact Check team. The post mentioned that the government is neither running any 'Blood on Call' scheme nor has it launched any pan-India helpline number, as claimed by the message. The posts which went viral read," Government's new scheme...from today '104' becomes India's special number for blood requirement. The service is available 24x7. After calling this number, blood will be delivered within 4 hours within a 10 km radius. Cost Rs 450 per bottle and Rs 100 for delivery. Please forward this message to your friends, relatives, and groups. A new life can be saved through this facility." The fact-check team reiterated that the public must always rely on official sources for verified information. New Delhi, July 29 : The price of silver recorded a significant increase, while gold prices registered a modest decline on Tuesday. Silver's price increased from Rs 1,12,984 to Rs 1,13,307 per kilogram, a Rs 323 increase, according to the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA). The metal price has been hovering over Rs 1,10,000 per kg for the last few trading sessions. Meanwhile, it has touched an all-time high of Rs 1,15,850/kg on July 23. Silver is no longer just a precious metal - it is a modern asset class backed by industrial relevance and historical trust that offers a compelling dual advantage, Client Associates (CA) said in its report. This unique combination makes silver a powerful portfolio diversifier, with the potential to deliver 15a"20 per cent upside over the next 12a"24 months, the firm said. The dual usage differentiates silver from traditional precious metals and connects its price movements to both global uncertainty and technological growth cycles, the report stated. Meanwhile, the price of 24-carat gold dropped from Rs 98,446 to Rs 98,296 per 10 grams on Monday, as per IBJA. Similarly, the price of 22-carat gold dropped by Rs 138, from Rs 90,177 to Rs 90,039 per 10 grams. In addition, the price of 18-carat gold dropped by Rs 113, from Rs 73,835 on Monday to Rs 73,722 per 10 grams today. Silver and gold are both trading higher in the futures market. The gold futures contract for August 5, 2025, rose by 0.27 per cent to Rs 97,804 on the Multi-Commodity Exchange (MCX). Likewise, the September 5, 2025, silver futures contract increased by 0.2 per cent to Rs 1,13,281. Both precious metals saw slight increases in price on the global stage. Silver gained 0.15 per cent to trade at $38.28 per ounce on the COMEX, while gold increased by about 0.25 per cent to $3,318.40 per ounce. Ahead of the US Federal Reserve's two-day policy meeting, analysts blame the current price trends on investor sentiment. Consequently, gold was trading at Rs 97,900 on the domestic market, but it showed a stronger gain of 0.30 per cent on the COMEX, rising to $3,325 per ounce. "Gold prices traded slightly higher at Rs 97,900 with gains of Rs 350, while Comex gold rose by 0.30 per cent to $3,325 amid the ongoing two-day U.S. Federal Reserve policy meeting, said Jateen Trivedi of LKP Securities. Gold is likely to move within the range of Rs 97,000a"Rs 98,650 in the near term, the analyst said. Jakarta, July 29 : Malaysia and ASEAN on Tuesday jointly reaffirmed their commitment to unity and multilateralism as key foundations for regional stability and progress, as Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim delivered a policy speech at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta during his first visit. "ASEAN's commitment to regionalism and multilateralism remains the anchor of the region's collective stability and progress. It is imperative that ASEAN continues to stand for rules, even when others choose to retreat," Anwar said. Addressing diplomats, ASEAN officials, and representatives of partner countries, Anwar noted that ASEAN must be an agent of change -- one that has the capacity to shape the global rules and norms to remain open, inclusive, and firmly rooted in the principle of justice, Xinhua news agency reported. He warned that the global order was facing unprecedented levels of fragmentation, marked by major power rivalries, geo-economic competition and fraying multilateralism, and urged ASEAN to confront this reality with clarity of purpose and vision. In this context, Anwar called for a more cohesive and resilient ASEAN, able to sustain constructive engagement with global partners while upholding the organisation's centrality, unity, and autonomy. "I have consistently underscored that ASEAN's centrality, unity and autonomy should remain the compass in our collective journey ahead. In a fragmented world, our centrality and unity matter more than ever," he said. Anwar's speech also highlighted ASEAN's active role in conflict mediation. Referring to the recent escalation of border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, he noted Malaysia's successful effort in convening both parties for talks on Monday. The episode, he said, reaffirmed that peace is best achieved through dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to stability. ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn welcomed Anwar's visit, describing it as a "truly significant milestone" in Malaysia's fifth ASEAN Chairmanship. "Multilateral cooperation and principled diplomacy remain not only viable, but vital to regional peace, stability, and prosperity," Kao said, noting that Malaysia's leadership in 2025 has already delivered significant milestones, including economic initiatives and the forthcoming admission of Timor-Leste as ASEAN's 11th member state. "As ASEAN charts its course in an era marked by fragmentation and flux, the imperative of unity has never been more urgent; our ability to thrive hinges on our resolve to stand together," Kao noted. New Delhi, July 29 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Lok Sabha during the debate on Operation Sindoor, delivered a forceful account of India's military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. He asserted that India has set its own rules now after the Pahalgam attack. PM Modi outlined three strategic principles that now guide India's national security posture: India will respond to attacks on its own terms; nuclear threats will no longer deter action; and there will be no distinction between terrorists and those who support or shelter them. He stated that Pakistan had anticipated a major retaliation, and India executed its plan with precision on the night of May 6 and the morning of May 7. "The attack of April 22 was avenged in just 22 minutes," he said, underscoring the speed and decisiveness of the operation. PM Modi described Operation Sindoor as a strategic breakthrough, marking the first time India targeted locations it had never reached before. He claimed that terrorist bases in Wahwalpur and Muridke were razed, and that many Pakistani airbases remain incapacitated. "Our forces destroyed the terrorist bases. We proved that Pakistan's nuclear threats are hollow. Nuclear blackmailing will not work," he declared. He emphasised India's growing technological prowess, noting that domestically developed drones played a critical role in exposing and dismantling terror infrastructure. "This is the era of technology-based warfare. Operation Sindoor has demonstrated India's mastery in this domain," he said. The Prime Minister also framed the operation as a turning point in global perception, asserting that the world now recognises the strength of a self-reliant India. He said the joint action by the Army, Air Force, and Navy had left Pakistan stunned, and that the new normal is one where terror masterminds live in fear of Indian retaliation. New Delhi, July 29 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that the Operation Sindoor, in response to the dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam, not only decimated terror camps and factories operating from Pakistani soil but also filled the hearts of terrorists' masterminds, sitting across the border. Spotlighting the Armed Forces' fierce strikes on Pakistan, PM Modi said that Operation Sindoor made the world realise India's indigenously developed missiles and drones and praised the newfound Atmanirbharta in defending the country. "Made in India drones and missiles wreaked havoc in Pakistan," PM Modi said and also elaborated on how the technical advancements helped plan precise and targeted attacks, deep inside the enemy's territory. Joining the debate on Operation Sindoor, the Prime Minister described the Pahalgam massacre as the worst form of terrorism, stating that innocent tourists were killed in cold blood after singling them out on the basis of their religion. "This was a coordinated plan to create communal divide and incite religious unrest, but the country stood united while our Armed Forces gave a befitting reply to Pakistan's misadventures," PM Modi said. PM Modi also recalled his statement, the first after the April 22 attack, where he publicly said that terrorists as well as their masters will be buried in soil and they will get punishment beyond their imagination. "Our forces were given full operational freedom and through the Operation Sindoor, they took revenge in just 22 minutes over the April 22 attacks," PM Modi said. He further said that Pakistan got a whiff of an imminent Indian attack and also tried nuclear blackmail to thwart any assault, but our forces brought them to their knees in just one day. "The operation came as a nightmare for terror masterminds, as, unlike earlier, today they remain shrouded in fear that Indian forces may come hunting for them," PM Modi said. Ghaziabad, July 29 : A Special CBI Court in Ghaziabad on Tuesday sentenced Gangaram, Partner of M/s Pankaj Pharma, Lucknow, to two years' rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakh for his involvement in a forgery and cheating case related to the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) scheme. Ghaziabad, July 29 (IANS) A Special CBI Court in Ghaziabad on Tuesday sentenced Gangaram, Partner of M/s Pankaj Pharma, Lucknow, to two yearsa rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakh for his involvement in a forgery and cheating case related to the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) scheme. The case pertains to fraudulent practices in the procurement and supply of medicines under the NRHM during the 2008-09 financial year. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had registered the case on July 11, 2013, against Gangaram and others, following irregularities in the implementation of the scheme between 2005 and 2011. According to the CBI investigation, Gangaram, in criminal conspiracy with the then Pharmacist Late J.P. Srivastava, managed to fraudulently procure seven government supply indents originally meant for firms authorized under state rate contracts. To do this, he submitted forged authorisation letters, falsely projecting M/s Pankaj Pharma as an officially approved dealer. Using these fabricated documents, Gangaram supplied medicines to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Balrampur, and fraudulently obtained payment to the tune of Rs 5,00,847. While the medicines were indeed supplied, investigations revealed that the authorisation letters were counterfeit, and the actual rate-contract firms had no involvement in the supply. The case highlighted a clear instance of impersonation, document forgery, and misappropriation of government funds under the health mission aimed at improving rural healthcare infrastructure. Following a detailed probe, the CBI filed a charge sheet on June 30, 2015, and the case went to trial. The Special Court, after examining the evidence and hearing the arguments, found Gangaram guilty of forgery, cheating, and criminal conspiracy under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act. The court sentenced him to two yearsa imprisonment, along with a fine of Rs 5 lakh, sending a stern message against the misuse of public health schemes. New Delhi, July 29 : The Prime Minister accused the Congress party of aligning its political narrative with Pakistan, stating, Congress is now compelled to import issues from Pakistan. PM Modi's remarks came during a special session of Parliament dedicated to national security and the aftermath of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. He asserted that Operation Sindoor, India's retaliatory military campaign, remains active and that any future provocation from Pakistan would be met with a "befitting reply." In a combative address to the Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India's uncompromising approach to counterterrorism, citing the success of Operation Sindoor as a watershed moment in the country's defence doctrine. "We achieved our target 100 per cent," PM Modi declared. "On the night of May 9, our missiles struck corners of Pakistan that it had never imagined. It forced them to their knees." He described the operation as a precision strike on the "navel of terrorism" - a metaphor for the epicentres of recruitment and training that fuelled cross-border militancy. The Prime Minister recounted how the Indian Army communicated its intent and execution to Pakistan's military within minutes, underscoring the clarity and confidence of India's strategic posture. "We were fully prepared. We were waiting for the right opportunity, and our target was clear: to destroy terror and terrorists," he said. PM Modi also referenced the Balakot airstrikes of 2019, drawing parallels to Operation Sindoor in terms of tactical clarity and execution. "This time too, our forces demonstrated the strength of the nation by achieving every objective," he said. In a pointed rebuke to international critics, PM Modi emphasised that no global leader had asked India to halt its operations. "Our action was non-acceleratory and entirely self-determined," he said, adding that the Defence Ministry and armed forces had jointly formulated the policy. The Prime Minister's speech was marked by vivid anecdotes, including reports from Pakistani civilians caught off guard by the strikes. "They said they were bathing, getting ready for work - India attacked before they could even think," he said, illustrating the element of surprise and precision. PM Modi concluded by reiterating India's new security doctrine: retaliation will be swift and sovereign; nuclear threats will not deter action; and there will be no distinction between terrorists and their state sponsors. The Lok Sabha session continues to draw sharp political reactions, with opposition leaders questioning the government's preparedness and intelligence protocols. New Delhi, July 29 : A total of 16,912 Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) have been opened till June, under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana scheme, said Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Anupriya Patel in the Parliament on Tuesday. In in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha, Patel noted that the scheme aims to make quality generic medicines available at affordable prices to all. About 2,110 medicines and 315 surgicals, medical consumables and devices are under the scheme product basket. It also covers all major therapeutic groups, such as cardiovascular, anti-cancers, anti-diabetic, anti-infectives, anti-allergic and gastro-intestinal medicines and nutraceuticals. Almost all generic medicines included in the National List of Essential Medicines, except lab reagents and vaccines, are included in the scheme product basket. "In the last 11 years, estimated savings of about Rs 38,000 crore have accrued to citizens in comparison to the prices of branded medicines, Patel said. The JAKs also contributed "significantly to the sharp reduction in out-of-pocket expenditure by households from 62.6 per cent of total health expenditure in financial year (FY) 2014-15 to 39.4 per cent in FY2021-22," she added citing data from the National Health Accounts Estimates. Uttar Pradesh (3,550) has the highest number of JAKs, followed by Kerala (1,629), Karnataka (1,480) and Tamil Nadu (1,432). The MoS also informed of the government's "target to open 25,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras by March 2027". In opening of JAKs, the government has adopted a franchisee-like model, in which online applications from individual entrepreneurs, non-governmental organisations, societies, trusts, firms, private companies, etc. are invited online through the website of the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India from across the country, including in various blocks and tehsils. Under the stocking mandate, the JAK owners become eligible for claiming incentive based on stocks of the said 200 medicines maintained by them. "For smooth supply and product availability at JAKs, an end-to-end IT-enabled supply chain system has been established, comprising a central warehouse, four regional warehouses and 39 distributors appointed across the country," Patel said. "Availability of 400 fast-moving products is monitored regularly to ensure their availability. Further, a minimum stocking mandate has been implemented for 200 medicines consisting of the 100 top-selling medicines in the scheme product basket and 100 fast-selling medicines in the market," the MoS added. Wayanad, July 29 : A year after a massive landslide washed away four villages in Wayanad that left 298 dead and over 40 still missing, the tragedy continues to haunt the survivors, even as they grieve for the departed and try to piece their upended lives together. On Tuesday, the anniversary of the tragedy was commemorated as a protest day by the youth wing of the Indian Union Muslim League, which led a march through the affected areas, highlighting the callous attitude of the Kerala government. Likewise at 4 P.M. on Tuesday, the Youth Congress commenced a 24 hour protest strike before the Wayanad Collectorate over the slow progress of the rehabilitation programme. On Wednesday, an all religion prayer meeting will be held in the Meppadi village council. Apart from this, nothing has changed on the ground as the survivors of the natural disaster continue to wait for the rehabilitation programme announced by the Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan government, while they live in homes rented by the state government. There are around 402 families waiting for their homes which the state government is building in two townships, while around 50 families are waiting with bated breath to see if they will find themselves in the second list of beneficiaries. According to the existing plans the two townships are expected to be finished in December, but at the present pace at which the work is going on, it might not happen. For the township, the Left government got the clearance from the High Court for taking over of two estates -- Harrison Malayalam Estate of 65.41 acres in Nedumbala, Meppadi grama panchayat and Elston Estate of 78.73 acres in Kalpetta. A whopping 145 homes were fully destroyed; 170 houses were partially destroyed, while 240 homes have been declared uninhabitable and 183 homes were washed away. Meanwhile the blame game continues with the state and the Centre blaming one another. The High Court has asked the Centre and state to give their view in two weeks' time on writing off of bank loans taken by the hapless survivors. On the anniversary of the tragedy there were a section of people who recalled the dreadful days following the landslides. Shyja, an Asha worker, spent 11 days in the mortuary to help identify about 100 bodies. "It was a most painful duty and I still get sleepless nights when I recall the faces of the small kids lying dead before my eyes, and not to mention seeing dismembered bodies. Being an Asha worker who worked with the people closely it was my job to identify the dead," recalled Shyja. Dr Shankar who worked at the hospital where the bodies and the injured were brought, says there were heart rendering scenes. "We are also human beings and have emotions and seeing the pain and tragedy, it was really tough for us," said the medical professional. Forest Officer Sivaraman said they were one of the first officials to reach the Chooralmala area after disaster struck. "When we reached the place, it was pitch dark and homes were getting swept away. However, despite all the difficulties we were able to rescue 40 people. We did our best in the most trying times," recalled Sivaraman. A woman living by the Chaliyar lake at Pothukal where 80 bodies and over 257 body parts were recovered, said the scenes would continue to haunt her for a long time to come. With the tragedy still fresh in the minds and hearts of the people, all eyes are on the Vijayan government on how quickly they are able to complete the townships and give a new lease of life to the victims of nature's fury. Mumbai, July 29 : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday warned the council of ministers not to force him to take action against them if they embroil themselves in controversies again and again, denting the image of the government and giving ammunition to the opposition and critics to fire salvos. The CM spoke with ministerial colleagues after the cabinet meeting and asked them not to speak to the press and media but to focus on their departmental work. He also told them that if their names come up in any controversial issue, clarification should be sought without sparking a new controversy. The CM's move to hold a thirty-minute interaction was in the wake of several ministers hogging the headlines for stoking controversies. The ministers, including agriculture minister Manikrao Kokate, social justice minister Sanjay Shirsat, school education minister Dadaji Bhuse and the minister of state for home, Yogesh Kadam, were under the CM's radar in connection with various controversies. A senior MahaYuti minister said, "The CM met all cabinet ministers, asking them not to get involved in any controversies. He asked all the ministers to issue clarification if their names come up in any row. His message was quite loud and clear that, despite this, if the ministers continue to spark controversies, he will be forced to take action against them." He added that the chief minister was quite categorical that the ministers should speak less but work more. Fadnavis told the ministers that the controversies are encroaching on the good works and achievements of the government. The CM's warning came after the government faced a major embarrassment after Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate's video about playing rummy in the state council went viral. After the demand for his resignation by the opposition and farmers' organisations, he sparked another row, saying the government is the beggar and not the farmers. He was snubbed by the chief minister and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Further, the issue of the tender of Sambhajinagar hotel bagged by social justice minister Sanjay Shirsat's son despite a lack of necessary eligibility conditions was raised by the leader of the opposition in the state council, Ambadas Danve. Although the minister's son has withdrawn from the tendering process after much noise, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a high-level probe into the matter. Further, Minister Shirsat's video about a bag full of currency notes went viral giving the opposition an opportunity to demand his resignation. School education minister Dadaji Bhuse is being cornered by the opposition over the alleged irregularities in the recruitment process. Similarly, the ruling establishment became uncomfortable after Shiv Sena legislator Anil Parab levelled serious allegations against Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam's son and minister of state for home, Yogesh Kadam, over the illegal sand trading and dance bar raids. That prompted the chief minister to announce that if there is any truth in the material, he will take further action, while Yogesh Kadam outside the House said he would at an appropriate time prove that the allegations were false. Minister of Soil and Water Conservation Sanjay Rathod sparked the controversy over the recruitment and postings in his department. Kadam was yet another name in an already growing list of ministers and legislators from Shiv Sena after Sanjay Shirsat, Sanjay Rathod and Sanjay Gaikwad, who have landed in controversy in this monsoon session of the legislature. Ironically, the ugly fight between the supporters of legislators and these controversies dominated the outcome of the monsoon session; instead, the healthy debate on key issues would have increased the stature of the legislators and further consolidated the image of the state legislature as a premium institution at the national level. BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- As global growth falters and geopolitical tensions roil markets, China is doubling down on reforms to drive high-quality development and provide much-needed stability to the world. By further deepening reforms spearheaded by President Xi Jinping, China is opening up new prospects for modernization, building on decades of reform and opening-up efforts that have resulted in remarkable economic growth and global influence. "We draw impetus from reform, leveraging reform to stimulate vitality and consolidate strength," said Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission. One year ago, a pivotal CPC plenum laid out the reform roadmap for the following five years. Over the past year, steady progress regarding these reforms has enabled China to navigate economic headwinds with greater stability and resilience. PROPELLING ECONOMY AGAINST HEADWINDS Since the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee in July 2024, which unveiled more than 300 major reform initiatives, advancing reform has remained a central focus for Xi. During key meetings and domestic inspections, he has consistently made instructions on reform-related issues, covering major principles, critical reform measures and their implementation. Just weeks after this key plenum, the Central Commission for Deepening Overall Reform, which Xi heads, held a meeting to formulate detailed plans to push forward the reform agenda, specifying expected outcomes, timelines and division of responsibilities for the reform initiatives. At a central Party school study session in October last year, Xi urged officials to confront challenges head-on, eradicate deep-rooted problems resolutely, address risks and difficulties with courage, and strive to "break new ground in reform and development." During his first domestic inspection after the plenum, Xi stressed the need to "take further deepening reform comprehensively as a driving force" while chairing a seminar in Lanzhou, capital city of northwest China's Gansu Province. One month later, in east China's Fujian Province, Xi called for focusing on key areas and crucial segments, ensuring that reform of the economic system takes the lead in promoting development, while continuing to boldly experiment and independently reform. Over the past year, he has visited more than 10 provincial regions across China -- tailoring reform guidance to each region's specific circumstances, as part of the country's broader modernization drive. In southwest China's Guizhou Province, Xi called on the province to actively integrate itself into the building of a unified national market. In Shanghai in east China, he urged accelerated efforts to develop a globally influential sci-tech innovation hub. During his visit to central China's Henan Province, Xi demanded continued efforts to strengthen the real economy. This targeted approach has prompted China's provincial regions to leverage their competitive advantages while adapting national reform priorities to local conditions -- with each region assuming distinct roles in propelling the country's overall reform agenda forward. In the course of the past year, China has rolled out an array of well-timed, innovative policy measures to address economic challenges. The country has innovated on the policy front to bolster domestic demand, issuing ultra-long special treasury bonds to support large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins, as well as implementation of major national strategies and security capacity building in key areas. Reform measures were also unveiled in China's quest to improve its business environment, which Xi believes directly correlates with development vitality. The Private Sector Promotion Law, the country's first fundamental law dedicated to promoting the private sector, came into effect in May 2025, while new guidelines for building a unified national market were put in place to dismantle market barriers. Xi's visits to research institutes, science parks, manufacturing firms and industrial zones have underscored his push to integrate scientific and technological innovation with industrial development -- and to translate research achievements into real productivity. Reflecting the dividends of reform, China's economy grew by 5.3 percent year on year in the first half of 2025, up from a 5-percent increase in 2024. Major indicators exceeded expectations, with steady progress seen in innovation-driven development and further opening up. FROM TOP-LEVEL DESIGN TO GRASSROOTS IMPACT As China begins charting its next five-year development plan, policy analysts view the blueprint not only as a roadmap for economic development but also as a bold reform agenda. In late April this year, Xi convened a meeting in Shanghai to set the tone for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030). Aligning it with the country's broader reform drive, Xi called for a steadfast expansion of high-standard opening up and faster progress in building a new development dynamic. This reform effort rests on a long-standing foundation, which sees the Party firmly at the center. A hallmark of China's reform playbook since the late 1970s, the overall leadership of the CPC serves as the key to the success of China's reform agenda. "No matter what we reform, or how far the reform goes, the Party's leadership must be upheld," Xi emphasized. To reinforce this leadership role, Xi in late June chaired another meeting that reviewed new regulations governing how the Party's decision-making and coordination bodies are formed and operate. Such bodies have been instrumental in ensuring CPC leadership of reforms across a wide range of areas. As institutional mechanisms are strengthened, some major reforms are now being codified into law, allowing proven practices to offer long-term guidance for governance. China has long emphasized a people-centered approach to reform, framing progress not just in terms of growth or governance, but in terms of how it improves the daily lives of the Chinese people. "Reform only matters when it serves the people and reform only advances when it relies on the people," Xi has said, positioning the Party's reform priorities as a response to people's needs. Urbanization, household registration reform and the renewal of dilapidated urban neighborhoods have all figured prominently among his concerns. In January 2025, just before the Chinese New Year, Xi visited a refurbished residential compound in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province, which is an old industrial city, to check on the progress of a massive renovation project there. Notably, such neighborhood overhauls are not only about improving living conditions -- but also about supporting sustainable urban development. During the visit, Xi called for reform efforts to further zero in on real-world problems, highlight key areas and tackle persistent challenges. Over the past year, China unveiled a five-year action plan to advance a people-centered new type of urbanization, listing 19 initiatives closely tied to everyday life. These include deepening reforms of the household registration system, boosting intercity commuting efficiency and renovating aging urban neighborhoods. The government has also rolled out reforms in education, elder care and youth employment, while expanding access to affordable childcare. One of the most consequential steps came last year, when officials announced a gradual increase in the statutory retirement age -- introducing voluntary and flexible measures to address the challenges posed by the country's aging population. Observers have said that such reforms have addressed the most pressing demands of ordinary people and ensured that the fruits of development are shared more broadly and equitably. New Delhi, July 29 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack at the Congress-led Opposition for 'giving a clean chit' to Pakistan over the Pahalgam terror attack and mocked the grand old party for not supporting India's war on terror. Brushing aside Congress's claims of India's foreign policy failure, in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, PM Modi said that none of the countries voiced any opposition to India's military strikes against Pakistan. "Out of 193 countries, only three countries supported Pakistan either through dialogue or by other means. All nations and organisations, including BRICS and others, supported India's military strikes and war on terror," PM Modi told the house. Further mocking the grand old party, PM Modi said, "We got the support of countrymen, support of countries, but it is unfortunate the armed forces didn't get the support of the Congress party." PM Modi claimed that the grand old party gloated over the Pahalgam terror attack, hoping that it would allow them to target him and corner the government. "They were trying to score political points at the cost of loss of innocent lives. They lowered the morale of the armed forces and undermined their valour," PM Modi said. He further said that information and narratives play a key role in today's warfare strategy and cautioned against using technology to undermine the armed forces and misguide the public on issues of national importance. Doubling down his attack, PM Modi accused the grand old party of being hand in glove with Pakistan and said, "Today, Congress is bereft of issues and is forced to draw agenda from outside." He said that Congress leaders have repeatedly demanded proof and evidence of India's surgical strikes, but sensing public backlash, it changed tack and went to claim that such strikes happened in the Congress regime too. "It's good that they didn't seek similar credit like Operation Sindoor because such air strikes never happened before," he said, taunting the Opposition. He said that Congress wants a reason to oppose the government's decisions even at the cost of national security and also highlighted its 'disdain' for the armed forces. "There is a negativity towards armed forces; it's an old Congress habit of finding faults in their action," he said. --IANS mr/dan Washington, July 29 : The Khalistan group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) has run false propaganda over a routine White House letter sent to SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The response given to pro-Khalistani terrorist Pannun in the form of a letter, dated July 24, was sent as a matter of protocol to acknowledge the views of a person. These types of letters are regularly sent to thousands of people each year on a range of issues. The letter issued by the US President's Office was just a polite governmental procedure and mentioned no endorsement, special recognition or policy shift, Khalsa Vox reported. However, some Khalistan supporters spread false propaganda over the letter, terming it a "response from the American President" supporting their cause. This kind of propaganda demonstrates a dangerous pattern that includes exploiting democratic processes and transparent institutions to falsely claim international legitimacy. These actions are just a political theatre with no substance, designed to create headlines and manipulate the opinion of people. The letter issued by the White House does not mention Khalistan, secession, or support for any such movement. The letter simply showcases US foreign policy, national interests, and diplomacy - exactly like hundreds of other letters sent to concerned citizens do. The action of Khalistan supporters simply reminds people to be vigilant against propaganda dressed in official-looking paper. Earlier in January, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Tribunal confirmed a notification issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) banning pro-Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun-led 'Sikhs for Justice (SFJ)' for five years. The UAPA Tribunal of Justice Anoop Kumar Mendiratta, a sitting judge of the Delhi High Court, ruled that the evidence given by the Centre established SFJ's connections with Khalistani terror groups such as Babbar Khalsa International and Khalistan Tiger Force, as well as its collaboration with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to revive militancy in the Punjab. It added that the evidence highlighted SFJ's involvement in recruiting and radicalising youth using social media platforms, financing terrorism through smuggling networks to procure weapons and explosives, and issuing death threats to political figures, including the Prime Minister and the Home Minister. In a notification issued on July 9, 2024, the MHA extended the declaration of SFJ as an unlawful association for another five years, saying that Pannun-led SFJ's activities have the "potential of disrupting peace, unity, and integrity of the country". Thereafter, a reference was made to the UAPA Tribunal to adjudicate whether or not there was sufficient cause for declaring the association unlawful. According to the MHA, SFJ is involved in anti-national and subversive activities in Punjab to disrupt the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India. Kolkata, July 28 : Actress-turned politician and Trinamool Congress member from Jadavpur Lok Sabha constituency in West Bengal, Saayoni Ghosh, on Tuesday, asked on the floor of the Parliament on why security personnel were unable to reach in time at the spot at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir where 26 tourist were killed by four terrorists in April this year. "My question is why the security personnel could not reach the spot in time, where the tourists and terrorists could reach easily. Now, if I raise this question, I might be branded as an anti-national. The trend now is that anyone is branded as 'nationalist' only if that person echoes what the Prime Minister Narendra Modi says. The same person is branded as 'anti-national' as soon as he starts raising questions," Ghosh said while participating in a debate on Operation Sindoor on the floor of the Parliament during the Monsoon session. She also asked why the Intelligence Bureau (IB) Chief Tapan Kumar Deka was not removed from his post and instead was offered an extension, despite it being clear that the Pahalgam massacre was a result of a major intelligence failure and security lapse. "You should have removed him and given a message to the countrymen that there is no compromise on intelligence failure in the security system of the country," Ghosh added. She also asked the contradictory figures on the number of terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir in "Operation Mahadev". "Yesterday, when we started the discussions, you quoted the figure at one. Today, you are quoting the figure at three. I wonder if the discussions had started two months back, then we might have seen these results then only," Ghosh added. She also raised the question of why India missed the opportunity of occupying Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) during Operation Sindoor, when the Union government had been claiming for a long time that the PoK land was the bonafide land of India. Speaking on the occasion, she also said that despite being in an advantageous position during Operation Sindoor, the Indian government succumbed to external pressure and interference in the internal matters of the country. India agreed to go for a ceasefire just after three days and that was announced by the US President Donald Trump, Ghosh added. Wellington, July 29 : More than 300 reserve soldiers of the New Zealand Army have taken part in a major combat training exercise, aimed at enhancing operational readiness and ensuring seamless integration with the regular forces. According to an official statement released by the New Zealand Defence Forces (NZDF), the nine-day exercise, named Tauwharenikau, was held at the Waiouru Military Training Area and included participation from over 70 regular force personnel. It featured combined arms training based on a simulated conflict scenario involving civil unrest on a fictional South Pacific island. Led by the 5th/7th Battalion of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, the exercise focused on mission execution driven by intelligence and realistic field conditions, including sub-zero temperatures. Lt Colonel Shaun O'Connor, Commanding Officer of the lead unit, said the exercise was designed to prepare the personnel to embed quickly into the first (New Zealand) Brigade when needed. "The work that goes into maintaining combat readiness is at the heart of what we do as an organisation, giving us the skills, tools and resilience to respond to any situation when called upon," he said. "Reservists are trained to the same standard and meet the same operational levels as their Regular Force peers, and bring a valuable diverse mix of backgrounds, expertise and skillsets to the Army." The Reserve Force, comprising more than 2,000 personnel, plays a vital role in supporting both domestic and international operations. Colonel Brendon Jull, Assistant Chief of Army for Reserves, stated that the training reflects the army's capacity to manage simultaneous large-scale commitments. While Exercise Tauwharenikau was underway, nearly 700 NZDF personnel were deployed to Australia for Exercise Talisman Sabre. "This illustrates our ability to operate across multiple domains and with international partners," Jull added. Looking ahead, the Reserve Force plans to deploy a company-sized contingent to the next Talisman Sabre exercise in 2027. The training scenario included a command-and-control centre, a light infantry rifle company with three platoons of 33 soldiers each, and support units such as engineers, signallers, armoured personnel, intelligence specialists, medics and dental staff. Other assets included unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) detachments from the Army's 16th Field Regiment and the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF), as well as explosive detection dogs, infantry support dogs, and a mounted reconnaissance team from the Waikato Mounted Rifles. Reserve Force soldiers typically train on a fortnightly or monthly basis and are eligible to participate in NZDF exercises both nationally and internationally, based on operational requirements and availability. New Delhi, July 29 : Amid the high-voltage atmosphere in the Parliament on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed that he did not respond to multiple phone calls from the US Vice President J.D.Vance on May 9, as he was chairing a critical national security meeting. The US Vice President, reportedly concerned about escalation between India and Pakistan, had been attempting to reach PM Modi as tensions peaked during Operation Sindoor. Addressing the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, PM Modi stated, "The US Vice President tried calling me four to five times. But I was in a meeting regarding national security. I could not receive his calls... I called him back later." According to the Prime Minister, the United States VP told him that Pakistan was preparing to launch a major military action. "I told them clearly - if Pakistan dares to attack, it will pay a very heavy price. India will respond with much greater force," PM Modi added. Earlier reports indicate that during that period, US officials, including Vice President Vance, were also in touch with both Indian and Pakistani leadership. Operation Sindoor targeted multiple terror launchpads and infrastructure across Pakistan, reportedly including Bahawalpur and Muridke, in a massive 22-minute offensive on the intervening night of May 6-7. PM Modi underlined that India's retaliation had achieved its intended goals, and despite global diplomatic pressure, not a single world leader explicitly asked India to stop the operation. "This time, India did not stop because of fear of international reaction. In fact, the world saw the scale of our response - from Sindoor to Sindhu (reference to Indus Water Treaty)," he asserted. PM Modi also criticised the Congress party for what he described as a lack of support for India's forces. "While the world backed us, it's unfortunate that our own brave soldiers did not receive the support of Congress," he said. "This is the new India - an India that doesn't seek permission to defend itself." As Operation Sindoor continues to be analysed for its strategic depth and technological sophistication, the government's narrative is clear: India acted decisively, independently, and in full national interest - undeterred by both nuclear threats and diplomatic noise. Chennai, July 29 : Actress Mahima Nambiar, who has delivered several impressive performances in both Malayalam and Tamil films, recently felt overwhelmed after reading a heartwarming letter of appreciation penned by a fan from the United Kingdom. Chennai, July 29 (IANS) Actress Mahima Nambiar, who has delivered several impressive performances in both Malayalam and Tamil films, recently felt overwhelmed after reading a heartwarming letter of appreciation penned by a fan from the United Kingdom. Taking to her Instagram page to pen a lengthy post on the mail sent by the fan from the UK, the actress wrote, "So, out of nowhere, I received this letter from Mr.Thomas in the United Kingdom and I feel completely overwhelmed with emotions." She then replied to the fan saying,"Dear Thomas chetta, This letter is really special.Iave often heard of celebrated actors receiving letters from people appreciating their work and craft and Iave always looked at it with a sense of awe and admiration. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that someone would make the effort to find my address and send me such a beautiful note. Iam just an ordinary actor!!" The actress, who took time to thank the fan for the effort he had made in sending such a mail, also explained how much the letter had strengthened her. She wrote,"Chetta, I just want to tell you that this letter fills me with strength and love to keep going and it also reminds me that every bit of effort was worth it. How big your heart must be to take time out for someone you donat even know! People like you make the world a better place. Thank you." Not stopping with thanking just that particular fan, the actress went on to thank all those fans who had sent her so much love. She wrote, "Thank you to everyone for all the love I receive through random messages, comments, and to the adorable people running fan pages without expecting anything in return. You guys are truly amazing." The actress also posted the letter the fan had written in Malayalam in which he had praised her body of work in films. Mahima Nambiar, who made her debut in Tamil cinema with an impressive performance in the critically acclaimed hit film 'Saattai', is best known for her performances in films like Kuttram 23, Kodiveeran, Magamuni, Asuraguru, RDX, 800 and Bromance. -- IANS mkr/ Chandigarh, July 29 : Haryana Financial Commissioner (Revenue) Sumita Misra on Tuesday said the Department of Revenue and Disaster Management, along with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), will conduct the full-scale mock drill 'Exercise Suraksha Chakra' on August 1. The drill will take place in Gurugram, Rewari, Faridabad, Nuh and Palwal districts. She said the disaster management exercise, which is underway as part of a four-day initiative till August 1 for the entire National Capital Region (NCR), aims to rigorously assess and strengthen real-time emergency response capabilities in the face of large-scale disasters like earthquakes and industrial chemical hazards. The exercise involves participation from Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi across 18 districts, alongside the Indian Army's HQ Western Command and HQ Delhi Area. It aims to strengthen inter-agency coordination, validate existing disaster management plans, and rigorously test real-time emergency response capabilities through a unified approach involving administration, armed forces, emergency services, and community stakeholders, incident response system across all levels, strengthen emergency support functions and identify resource gaps, she said. Misra emphasised that this initiative "sets a benchmark for disaster resilience in Haryana and is expected to significantly enhance the state's capacity to manage real-life emergencies through proactive planning, effective coordination, and inclusive participation". She said district disaster management authorities have received directives to activate the emergency operations centres and conduct pre-mock awareness campaigns, ensuring the clear demarcation of staging areas, medical aid posts, relief camps, and safe evacuation routes. They are also tasked with actively involving Aapda Mitra, Red Cross, NCC, NSS, NYKS volunteers, and NGOs, and coordinating extensively with local stakeholders. Crucially, all risky real-life simulations for civilians will be avoided, with trained personnel from NDRF, SDRF, and Fire Services conducting all rescue operations. During the exercise, sirens will sound at 9 a.m., initiating the drill, followed by immediate evacuation procedures, Misra added. Patna, July 29 : In a shocking series of fraudulent cases related to residence certificates, Bihar has once again found itself at the centre of controversy. After a bizarre incident in Masaurhi, Patna, where a certificate was issued in the name of "Dog Babu", a new case has surfaced from Motihari involving fabricated names and even a celebrity image on Tuesday. Officials in East Champaran's Kotwa block were stunned after receiving an online application for a residential certificate on July 17, which featured the photo of Bhojpuri actress Monalisa, while listing the applicant's name as "Sonalika Tractor", father's name as "Swaraj Tractor", and mother's name as "Car Devi." The police station area mentioned was Chhoudadano. Upon verification, the authorities confirmed the application to be entirely fake. An FIR was registered at Kotwa police station, and the matter has now been handed over to the Cyber Crime Cell for deeper investigation. "A meeting was held at the district headquarters in Motihari, and I have directed stringent action against the culprits," said Saurav Jorwal, District Magistrate of East Champaran. The fake application copy has gone viral on social media, triggering widespread discussions and criticism over lax verification procedures. Earlier on Monday, a similarly outrageous case came to light in Masaurhi (Patna), where a residence certificate was issued in the name of a dog. The application had been submitted using an Aadhaar card of a woman from Delhi, raising serious questions about document verification. Following a probe led by Patna District Magistrate Tyagarajan SM, strict action was taken against the errant officers. One revenue officer was suspended, and an IT assistant was terminated from the service with immediate effect. An FIR was lodged against all individuals involved, including the applicant. The DM termed it a deliberate act to malign the government's image and assured that thorough investigations would continue. "Such actions were not accidental but intentional. We will ensure strict legal action against anyone found guilty," said DM Tyagarajan SM, during his visit to the Block-cum-Zone Office in Masaurhi. Both cases underscore glaring lapses in e-governance platforms and certificate issuance protocols. Officials admitted that residence certificates were forwarded without field verification, exposing the system to exploitation. The state government has since recommended disciplinary action against responsible officials and emphasised the need to tighten digital verification measures. Bengaluru, July 29 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, asked about being left out of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's one-on-one meeting with MLAs, on Tuesday, maintained that there is nothing wrong with the CM interacting with the lawmakers. Addressing reporters here, Shivakumar said: "CM Siddaramaiah has the authority to conduct meetings with MLAs. (Party state in charge) Randeep Singh Surjewala, after his meeting with MLAs, brought many issues to the CMas attention, and against that backdrop, the CM has called a meeting. What's wrong with that?" Asked how he, as the state Congress chief and Deputy CM, was not invited to the meeting, he questioned: "How has this become such a big issue? There is no need for a debate over it. For Bengaluru, we will have a separate meeting. I have already spoken to the CM about this, as Bengaluru requires more support." "Today, the Honourable CM is meeting with party legislators. Our partyas national General Secretary has already consulted all MLAs individually and gathered their feedback. The feedback has been given to the CM, who is now discussing it with the legislators. As far as Bengaluru is concerned, we have a separate agenda and will discuss it later. I have also spoken with the Bengaluru MLAs. Let the rural MLAsa meeting conclude first," he said. "Today, I am holding a separate meeting because I need to file an affidavit before the court, as we are conducting elections. The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has been formed. We have already discussed the matter with opposition party members, and they have given their consent. Publicly or politically, others can continue with their meetings - I donat oppose it. In the interest of the state, we have divided Bengaluru for better administration, and even their voices have been heard on this matter," he added. "Some people are not satisfied. We must consider geography, administration, and finances. We are also planning to expand Bengaluru at a later stage," Shivakumar said. "We have taken the decision to divide Bengaluru in the best interest of the city, and everyoneas concerns have been taken into account," he reiterated. On the fertiliser shortage, Shivakumar said: "The BJP MPs have finally admitted that they are at fault and must ensure the supply of fertilisers. Farmers are demanding more fertiliser, and they should be helped immediately." Responding to the BJP's protest on the issue, he said: "The BJP leaders should protest against their own Union Agriculture and Fertiliser Ministers. Why protest against us? Do we manufacture fertilisers? Do we have fertiliser factories? Everything is managed by the Centre. They allocate fertilisers, and we distribute them." "If thereas any discrepancy in distribution, there is a record for everything. District-wise data on fertiliser distribution is available. Let them verify it. We are here to help farmers. When their government was in power and couldn't supply fertilisers, they fired at farmers. We have never taken such action," Shivakumar said. New Delhi, July 29 : No world leader asked India to stop military strikes against Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, from May 7 to May 10, declared Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha on Tuesday. PM Modi's assertions on "no third nation interference" in bringing a pause in India-Pak face-off also led to loud cheers and desk-thumping from the treasury benches. With PM Modi setting the records straight on India and Pakistan negotiating an understanding, at the request of the latter, is seen as a clear and straight response to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's challenge to reject any foreign intervention in the House. Speaking in the Lok Sabha earlier, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi threw a direct challenge and dared the Prime Minister to deny US President Donald Trump's persuasion in reaching a ceasefire with Pakistan, on May 10. "US President stated for the 29th time that he forced a ceasefire between India and Pakistan over a trade deal, and if PM Modi has the courage, he must call him a liar," Rahul said in Lok Sabha. PM Modi mocked the Opposition's repeated claims of foreign intervention and reiterated that the operation was stopped after it achieved its objective and also after the Pakistani DGMO pleaded before the Indian counterpart. Spotlighting the Armed forces' precise and tactical strikes on Pakistani terror bases and military installations, PM Modi said that it was at the insistence of the neighbouring nation that India decided to halt Operation Sindoor. "Pakistan Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) called up the Indian DGMO and requested to stop. He said that 'bahut mara ab jyada maar jhelne ki takat nahi hai, please hamla rok do' (You have hit us really hard, can't take it anymore, please stop this attack)," PM Modi said, while reiterating that the Indian strikes were precise and non-escalatory. He said that the Operation Sindoor achieved its objective by dismantling terror bases and their headquarters inside Pakistan and added that when the Pakistan military stepped in to support terrorists, the Indian armed forces mounted their offensive and taught the enemy nation a lesson that it will remember for years to come. Further, in the first-ever revelations, PM Modi stated that Pakistan fired about 1,000 drones and missiles from May 6 to May 10 and praised the forces back for destroying all of them in the air. TEHRAN, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Iran needs to continue domestic uranium enrichment for the production of radiopharmaceuticals and to fuel the country's "nascent" nuclear power reactors, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said Monday. "No one in their right mind would abandon the fruits of tremendous investment in homegrown and peaceful technology which is saving lives -- and simply because bullying foreigners demand it," Araghchi said on social media platform X. Iran has stepped up diplomatic efforts in recent weeks over the nuclear issue. On Friday morning, Iran as well as France, Britain and Germany, collectively known as the E3, resumed nuclear talks in Istanbul, Turkiye. On Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said a team of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will visit Iran within the next two weeks, during which a manual regarding the future of Iran's cooperation with the IAEA will be presented. Chennai, July 29 : Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Tuesday said Tamil Nadu "roars with pride" over its significant achievements in tiger conservation, as the state continues to set an example in wildlife protection and habitat restoration. In a message posted on his official aXa handle on the occasion of International Tiger Day, Stalin said: "On #InternationalTigerDay, Tamil Nadu roars with pride. With 306 tigers, as per the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), this success rests on the shoulders of our forest staff and anti-poaching teams who guard critical habitats across tough terrains". He noted that the state government has taken several proactive steps to strengthen conservation. "To boost conservation efforts, 1,947 field posts have been filled. Our forces are being equipped with modern gear, advanced technology, and supported by dedicated veterinarians," he said. A major highlight of the day was the report from the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR), which recorded a 28 per cent rise in its tiger population for 2024a"25. The number of tigers increased from 129 in 2023a"24 to 165, bringing cheer to forest officials and wildlife conservationists. Spread over 688.59 hectares a" comprising 321 hectares of core zone and 367.59 hectares of buffer zone a" MTR is one of Tamil Naduas flagship tiger reserves. Within the core zone, nearly 85 natural swamps play a critical role by serving as vital water sources that support the reserveas biodiversity. Forest officials attributed the sharp rise in tiger numbers to sustained anti-poaching efforts, effective habitat restoration, and the large-scale removal of invasive plant species. "If not removed, Lantana camara would have overtaken the swamps and destroyed key habitats. Clearing it helped restore ecological balance and improved conditions for both prey and predator species," an official said. Stalin also highlighted the creation of the Tamil Nadu Forest and Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (TNWFCCB), a specialised unit tasked with curbing organised wildlife crime and protecting endangered species. "In saving our tigers, we are protecting the soul of our forests," he said. With tiger reserves such as Mudumalai, Anamalai, and Sathyamangalam playing key roles, Tamil Nadu continues to emerge as a national leader in tiger conservation. The rise in tiger numbers and ongoing conservation initiatives have drawn praise from wildlife experts and activists across the country. New Delhi, July 29 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a blistering attack on the Congress during his reply to the debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, accusing the party of decades-long inaction against terrorism due to its "appeasement politics" and vote-bank compulsions. New Delhi, July 29 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a blistering attack on the Congress during his reply to the debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, accusing the party of decades-long inaction against terrorism due to its "appeasement politics" and vote-bank compulsions. In a scathing speech, PM Modi said that before 2014, the country was gripped by fear, with frequent terror alerts and citizens left to fend for their own safety. "Back then, the government didn't offer protection it only issued warnings. People were told to be alert because bombs could go off anywhere. That was the reality of Congress rule," PM Modi said. He contrasted the current government's approach with that of the previous regimes led by Congress, claiming that under BJP rule, India has demonstrated both the will and capability to strike back decisively at terrorism. "The question the nation is asking today is: if we can take firm action against terror, why didn't Congress governments do it? What was stopping them?" PM Modi asked. The Prime Minister accused the Congress of being soft on terror to appease its vote banks. He cited multiple instances to make his case: Batla House encounter: "When terrorists were neutralised, a senior Congress leader was seen weeping. This wasn't compassion for the victims it was appeasement in its most shameful form." Parliament attack (2001): "A Congress leader advocated giving terrorist Afzal Guru the benefit of doubt, even after such a brazen attack on India's democracy." 26/11 Mumbai attacks: "Despite overwhelming global evidence linking the attackers to Pakistan, Congress tried to push the narrative of 'saffron terror'. They were more interested in protecting their vote banks than defending the country." PM Modi also slammed the Congress for weakening anti-terror laws and blocking the full implementation of the Constitution in Jammu & Kashmir. "Why didn't Article 370 go earlier? Because the Congress didn't want to upset its appeasement strategy. Dr. Ambedkar's Constitution was kept out of Kashmir by Congress itself." He also referred to a reported incident where a Congress leader allegedly told a US diplomat that Hindu organisations were more dangerous than Lashkar-e-Taiba. "Imagine the mindset," PM Modi said, "comparing patriots to terrorists just for political gain." The Prime Minister's speech, punctuated with pointed accusations and references to past terror attacks, underscored the BJP's aggressive posture on national security and its effort to corner the Opposition particularly the Congress on issues of internal safety and patriotism. As the Lok Sabha sat in tense silence punctuated by sharp protests from Opposition benches, PM Modi concluded with a pointed message: "The country has changed. The politics of fear and appeasement will no longer be accepted. The era of turning a blind eye to terror is over." Hyderabad, July 29 : In the crackdown against illegal fertility centres following the busting of an illegal surrogacy and baby-selling racket, Hyderabad police conducted searches at an unregistered fertility lab on Tuesday. The North Zone Task Force team, with the help of the Clues team, collected evidence from the centre at the Regimental Bazar in Secunderabad. The police, along with the officials of the Health Department, seized some material relating to sperm samples collected from some individuals. They also seized documents and records, including Aadhaar cards of the sperm and egg donors and others from the facility. The Task Force detained seven people for following the raid by Health department officials on the unregistered fertility centre in Secunderabad. Those detained include the centreas manager, Pankaj Soni. The officials were questioning him and others as part of the investigation into allegations that they were doing unauthorised reproductive procedures in violation of the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021. The others detained by the police are Sampath, working as the cashier, K. Srinu, an employee from Visakhapatnam, Jitender Kumavat, a native of Indore, L. Shiva, and P. Manikanta, both acting as brokers, and Kansri Boro, an egg donor from Assam. A team of officials from the office of the District Medical and Health Officer (DM&HO) began searches with the help of police on Monday night. The searches continued on Tuesday. The centre was allegedly being run without registration from the District Registering Authority and was collecting semen and eggs without authorisation. There are allegations that the centre was collecting semen and eggs from donors from daily wage labourers, beggars, and pedestrians by paying them commission. These samples were allegedly being sold to private healthcare facilities. During the raid, the officials found 17 sperm donors and 11 egg donors present on the premises. According to officials, the centre was being operated by unqualified staff. Following a formal complaint lodged with the Gopalapuram police, a case was registered under Sections 21, 26, and 27 of the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021. Health authorities began a crackdown on surrogacy and IVF centres operating without registration. Several unregistered fertility centres are believed to be operating across Telangana, exploiting gullible couples. The state has 381 registered centres, including 158 within the limits of Greater Hyderabad. The officials were also conducting inspections at the registered centres to check any violation of the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021. The crackdown began close on the heels of an illegal surrogacy and baby-selling racket by the Gopalapuram police with the arrest of a doctor and nine others. Dr. Athaluri Namratha alias Pachipala Namratha, owner of Universal Shristhi Fertility Centre in Secunderabad, was arrested on allegations of conducting a large-scale illegal surrogacy and fertility scam. The racket came to light after a couple lodged a complaint with the police after DNA tests revealed that the child born through a surrogate arranged by the fertility centre was not biologically related to them. The investigations revealed that the couple were directed to another branch of the clinic at Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh for the collection of specimens and were told that the surrogate would be arranged by the clinic and the embryo would be transplanted to the surrogate. Last month, the couple was handed over a baby boy, saying the surrogate delivered the baby boy in Visakhapatnam. The clinic took over Rs 35 lakh from the couple as consultation charges for the procedures. The investigation revealed that the couple was handed over a child born to a couple from Assam. The childas parents were also among those arrested. New Delhi, July 29 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, launched a scathing attack on the Congress party, accusing it of systematically destroying India's indigenous defence manufacturing sector after Independence. Recalling India's historical prominence in arms production, PM Modi said, "There was a time when Bharat was at the top in defence manufacturing. We made the world's finest swords and equipment. But post-Independence, Congress deliberately dismantled this capability." He contrasted this legacy with today's self-reliant India, asserting that the country is steadily reclaiming its stature as a defence powerhouse. "On one side, India is moving towards Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), while on the other, Congress keeps leaning on Pakistan even for its political narratives," the Prime Minister remarked. The Prime Minister praised the Indian Armed Forces and credited the success of Operation Sindoor to India's long-term investment in indigenous defence capabilities. "If we hadn't spent the last decade building a self-reliant defence infrastructure, the cost during Operation Sindoor could have been devastating," the PM said. He noted the use of Made-in-India drones, missiles, and strategic systems during the operation, emphasising how Indian forces delivered a decisive blow to terror networks deep inside Pakistan. Highlighting the operation's success, PM Modi said, "From Sindoor to Sindhu, the world witnessed the scale of our action. Our enemies now know India will strike on its own terms, in its own time." The Prime Minister also drew attention to global recognition of India's resolve. "During Operation Sindoor, 193 countries in the United Nations stood by India. Only three spoke in Pakistan's favour," he noted. However, he expressed regret over the opposition's stance: "The world supported India, but, unfortunately, our soldiers' bravery did not receive Congress's support." He also criticised Congress for demoralising the forces and undermining India's defence narrative. "Earlier, they asked for proof after surgical strikes; now they question why the strike was stopped. Their pattern is clear they only want to oppose," he said, adding that "Congress's trust seems to be remote-controlled from Pakistan." Mumbai, July 29 : Actress Siddhant Chaturvedi reflected on collaborating with his college buddy,aShreyasaPuranik, in his much-awaited sequel, "Dhadak 2". Puranik has composed the tunes for the film's "DuniyaaAlag" track, picturized on Siddhant and Triptii Dimri. Sharing his experience of two old friends making it in the big city, Siddhant wrote on his Instagram account, "Jab college ke do nikaamme yaar saalon baad ek hi project pe kaam kareina it hits different. I think this is every upcoming artistas dream." Reflecting on their bond, the 'Gully Boy" actor shared, "Shreyas and I were in the same college a" two small-town boys juggling KTs and chasing big-city dreams. You may know him as @shreyaspuranikofficial, the hit machine behind some of the biggest chartbusters and beautiful melodies that shake your soula But I remember him as that boy with fearless confidence, sitting on the canteen bench, curls bouncing, strumming his rustic guitara A wave of students around him a" hooting, humming, harmonising.And today? Sab usi ke dhun pe gaa rahe hain. Love you, brother. This is just the beginning. So much more to come!" The post further included a video of Siddhant and Puranik jamming on the "DuniyaaAlag" song. Reacting to the post, an emotional Puranik commented, "Bhaia this post made me emotional. From college corridors to film credits a" itas been one wild, beautiful ride. Youave always carried your roots with grace, and to be sharing this moment with you means the world. Hereas to more music, more memories, and chasing more dreams together. Grateful for you always". The heartfelt lyrics of "DuniyaaAlag" penned byaSiddhartha'Garima, have been brought to life by ArijitaSingh. Helmed by Shazia Iqbal, the romantic entertainer stars Siddhant and Triptii Dimri as the lead pair. Produced by Karan Johar, Umesh Kumar Bansal, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, Meenu Aroraa, Somen Mishra, and Pragati Deshmukh under the banners of Dharma Productions, Zee Studios, and Cloud 9 Pictures, "Dhadak 2" is set to be released on August 1. New Delhi, July 29 : In the second round of the PM Internship Scheme pilot project, which commenced on January 9 this year, about 327 top companies have posted over 1.18 lakh internship opportunities across 735 districts of the country, the Parliament was informed on Tuesday. Over 4.55 lakh applications were received from over 2.14 lakh applicants in this round. As on July 23, 2025, partner companies have made over 72,000 offers to the youth, and over 22,800 offers have been accepted, Minister of State for Corporate Affairs Harsh Malhotra said in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha. Currently, rolling out of offers and the process of acceptances and joining by interns is in progress, he said. Youths between the age group of 21 24 years, who have passed high school/higher secondary school, possess a certificate from an ITI, hold a diploma from a polytechnic Institute, or are graduates with degrees such as BA, B.Sc, B.Com, BCA, BBA, B.Pharma etc., and are not employed full-time/not engaged in full-time education, are eligible to apply. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs is actively working with various stakeholders such as state governments, industry associations, educational institutions, etc., for the promotion and implementation of the scheme. The Ministry is also carrying out Information, education and communication activities to reach out to the target groups across the country, the minister explained. Malhotra said that the top 500 companies for the pilot project have been identified by the Ministry on the basis of their average CSR expenditure of the last three years. Apart from these, any other company, bank or financial institution desirous of participating in the scheme may do so with the approval of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, which would take a view keeping in view under represented sectors. The partner companies include private sector companies and Central and state public sector enterprises. The pilot project is implemented through an online portal, which serves as a centralised platform for end-to-end scheme and internship lifecycle management. A dedicated dashboard is provided to each partner company on the portal for posting Internship opportunities. Eligible candidates then have to register themselves on the portal and apply for internship opportunities based on their preferences, including location (state, district), sector, functional role, and qualifications. A pool of candidates, based on the applications, is shortlisted for each internship opportunity through the portal and sent to the companies. Companies select candidates and make internship offers based on their respective selection criteria and processes. Under the PMIS Pilot Project, the company is expected to provide the person with an actual working experience in a skill in which the company is directly involved. At least half of the internship period would be in the actual real-life business environment. Thus, the scheme provides an opportunity to the youth to get training and gain experience and skills within the work environment of various businesses or organisations with the intention of enhancing their employability by bridging the gap between academic learning and industry requirements. As per the guidelines of the pilot project, the companies would follow their own mechanism for assessing the candidates on a periodic basis. Quarterly Assessment Report of the candidates would be uploaded by the company on the portal, the minister added. Mumbai, July 29 : Logistics major Blue Dart Express Limited on Tuesday reported an 8.6 per cent decline in its net profit for the first quarter ended June 30 (Q1 FY26), as higher employee and finance costs weighed on earnings. This came even as the company saw revenue growth on the back of steady demand for logistics and distribution services. The DHL-owned company posted a consolidated net profit of Rs 48.8 crore, down from Rs 53.4 crore in the same quarter previous year, according to its stock exchange filing. Revenue from operations rose 7.4 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to Rs 1,441.9 crore, supported by strong traction in both B2B and B2C segments. Total expenses during the quarter increased 8.3 per cent, driven by an 8.7 per cent rise in employee benefit costs and higher depreciation expenses. However, earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) rose 10.2 per cent to Rs 223.7 crore, with margins improving to 15.5 per cent from 15.1 per cent a year earlier. The company said its investments in new hubs, automation, and digital infrastructure were helping maintain growth momentum. During the quarter, it launched its largest integrated operating facility in Delhias Bijwasan and expanded air connectivity to Guwahati. Blue Dart shares have fallen nearly 7 per cent so far this year. On Tuesday, the stock closed 1.1 per cent lower at Rs 6,489.75 on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). Blue Dart is one of the leading logistics and courier service providers in South Asia. It offers services like express delivery, freight forwarding, and supply chain solutions. The company has a wide network, covering more than 56,400 locations across India, and connects to over 220 countries and territories worldwide through its parent company, DHL. Blue Dart focuses on customer satisfaction and aims to provide high-quality service with the help of its skilled team and advanced technology. New Delhi, July 29 : YSRCP Parliamentary Party Leader Y.V. Subba Reddy strongly supported Operation Sindoor in his address in the Rajya Sabha, calling it a symbol of India's strategic precision and a bold counteroffensive in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. He said that the operation must continue until Pakistan stops aiding and abetting terrorism across the Line of Control. Citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's words, he reminded the House that "terror, trade and talks cannot go together" and "water and blood cannot flow together." He recalled that YSRCP President and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy had condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the victims. He mentioned that among the civilians killed were two individuals from Andhra Pradesh, JS Chandramouli, a retired banker, and Madhusudhan, an IT professional. Subba Reddy extended condolences to the families of the victims and praised the armed forces for their courage. He said Operation Sindoor had inflicted heavy damage on nine Pakistani airbases and multiple radar and air defence sites, including Nur Khan base in Rawalpindi and others in Sukkur, Sargodha, and Shahbaz. While lauding the Indian Air Force and the effectiveness of defence systems like the S-400, he also mourned the loss of Indian soldiers, including Murali Naik from the Sri Satya Sai district. He urged the government to immediately release all entitled compensation, including Rs 1 crore and a government job to the next of kin of those who lost their lives. Subba Reddy welcomed the government's decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty and stop water flow from key hydropower projects, but asked for clarity on pending projects like Sawalkot and Pakaldul. He urged the government to expedite all announced relief measures and direct banks and insurance companies to process claims without delay for the affected families. He also supported the government's diplomatic outreach through all-party delegations visiting key global capitals, but expressed disappointment that YSRCP, despite being the seventh largest party in the Rajya Sabha, was not included. Nevertheless, he said the party fully backed the international efforts to highlight India's zero-tolerance towards terrorism. Subba Reddy stated that terrorism must be eliminated at its ideological root and welcomed Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's announcement of 2025 as the 'Year of Reforms' to modernise India's armed forces and strengthen national security. Jaipur, July 29 : In a major stride towards strengthening cyber security, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has saved over Rs 5,489 crore by proactively acting on 17.82 lakh cybercrime-related complaints through the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System. This initiative is part of the comprehensive efforts undertaken by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), established by the Central government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Responding to a question raised in the Rajya Sabha by MP Madan Rathore, Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar informed the House of the critical progress made in the cybercrime control framework. MP Rathore said that to enhance public support, the Home Ministry has also operationalised a toll-free helpline 1930 for reporting cyber fraud, providing timely assistance for online complaints. He added that a state-of-the-art Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC) has been developed under I4C, which has successfully blocked over 9.42 lakh mobile SIM cards and 2,63,348 IMEIs associated with cyber frauds. Under the Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children (CCPWC) Scheme, the Ministry provides financial support to states for establishing cyber forensic-cum-training labs, appointing junior cyber consultants, and training law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judicial officers. So far, over 24,600 personnel have been trained in cybercrime awareness, investigation, and forensics. To further support investigations, the National Cyber Forensic Laboratory (NCFL) has been set up in New Delhi, which has assisted in over 12,460 cases to date. Additionally, the CyTrain portal, a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) platform, has issued certificates to more than 82,000 police officers, helping upgrade their digital investigation skills. MP Rathore also informed that the Home Ministry has launched the Sahyog Portal to streamline the process of issuing notices to IT intermediaries for the removal or disabling of illegal content or data being misused online. These initiatives underscore the governmentas firm commitment to ensuring cyber safety, preventing financial fraud, and protecting citizens in the digital space, he added. Patna, July 29 : Amid mounting pressure from the opposition over alleged financial irregularities flagged in the CAG report, the Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government has issued a formal clarification, denying any scam in the non-submission of Utilisation Certificates (UCs) amounting to Rs 70,877 crore. The government termed the issue a routine accounting process rather than financial misconduct. During the recently concluded monsoon session of the Bihar Assembly, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary tabled the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report for the financial year 2023-24. The report raised concerns over delays in submitting utilisation certificates for funds sanctioned under various government schemes. The CAG pointed out that in the absence of timely UCs, it remains unclear whether the allocated funds were spent for their intended purposes, leading the opposition to allege a Rs 70,877 crore scam. In a press conference held on Tuesday, Principal Secretary of the Finance Department Anand Kishore categorically denied any financial irregularity. He stated, "This is neither embezzlement nor a scam. The pending UCs are part of a normal accounting process followed by all states. It does not imply fund misappropriation." Kishore further said the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Bihar Legislature would now review the report. The departments concerned, including the Finance Department, will be given an opportunity to explain the pending certificates, following which the final report will be submitted to the government. Providing data to back the government's stand, Kishore revealed, "In FY 2022-23, UCs worth Rs 1,09,093 crore were successfully adjusted. Following the release of the CAG report, an additional Rs 51,750 crore worth of UCs have been cleared." He also noted that this year marks the lowest pendency of UCs in the last five years, indicating improvements in financial monitoring and compliance. While the opposition has used the CAG findings to attack the credibility of the ruling JD(U)-BJP coalition, the government's clarification may shift the focus to procedural reforms rather than corruption. However, as the matter now heads to the PAC, political tensions over transparency and accountability in public spending are likely to continue. CANBERRA, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Australian Prime Minister (PM) Anthony Albanese has described Israel's denial of starvation in Gaza as "beyond comprehension." Addressing a meeting of his governing Labor Party in Canberra on Tuesday, Albanese criticized claims by Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel's deputy Ambassador to Australia, Amir Meron, that there is no starvation in Gaza. While there is a caveat on any information provided by Hamas, it is Israel that has prevented any journalists from getting in, Albanese said. "Those claims that there is no starvation in Gaza are beyond comprehension." In a post on social media on Monday, Netanyahu said that there is no starvation in Gaza, nor a policy of starvation in Gaza. Meron reportedly told journalists from several Australian outlets during a briefing in Canberra on Monday that Israel does not recognize any famine or starvation in the Gaza Strip and that such reports are part of a "false campaign" led by Hamas. His comments came after Albanese on Sunday told Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) television that Israel is "clearly" breaching international law by restricting aid in Gaza and said in a statement on Friday that the denial of aid and killing of civilians "cannot be defended or ignored." Asked during Tuesday's meeting when Australia would move to recognize Palestinian statehood, Albanese said that his government has conditions that must be met before doing so, including democratic reforms. Kolkata, July 29 : The West Bengal government on Tuesday approached the Calcutta High Court challenging the order of its single-judge bench placing an interim stay on its scheme to provide stipends for the non-teaching staff who have lost their jobs following a Supreme Court verdict in April. On June 20, the single-judge bench of Justice Amrita Sinha had ordered an interim stay, which is supposed to be in force either till September 26 or till the time the court gives any further direction in the matter. On Tuesday, the West Bengal government approached a division bench challenging the single-judge bench order. In the petition challenging the single-judge bench order, the state government contended that the allowance was announced to provide relief to the non-teaching staff who have lost jobs following the apex court order, and hence, it should not face hurdles on humanitarian grounds. In May this year, the West Bengal government issued a notification announcing the new scheme under the state Labour Department. Under the "West Bengal Livelihood and Special Security Interim Scheme", the job-losing Group-C staff would be entitled to a monthly stipend of Rs 25,000, while those in the Group D category would be entitled to Rs 20,000 monthly. Announcing the launch of the scheme, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the scheme was planned under the state Labour Department because of the tendencies of some people and vested interests to file public interest litigations at the Calcutta High Court against any decision of the state government. However, legal challenges could not be avoided following successive petitions filed against the said notification. On April 3, the Supreme Court upheld the Calcutta High Court order that annulled 25,753 school appointments made through the WBSSC, observing that the panel had to be scrapped entirely due to the authorities' failure to distinguish between "tainted" and "untainted" candidates. The state government and the WBSSC have since filed review petitions in the Supreme Court seeking reconsideration of the order. Hyderabad, July 29 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought a report within four weeks on the death of around 48 students and 886 incidents of food poisoning in Gurukul (residential) schools in Telangana Secretaries of five societies, running the residential schools for students from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Backward Classes and Minorities, have been directed to submit the report. This was one of 109 cases of human rights violations in Telangana heard by the NHRC during its two-day aOpen hearing and Camp Sittinga, which concluded here on Tuesday. NHRC Chairperson, Justice Shri V. Ramasubramanian, Members, Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi and Vijaya Bharathi Sayani heard the cases in the presence of the victims, complainants and the authorities. In a case regarding the increasing stray dog menace, which was presented by a 5th standard student, the Commission directed the concerned authorities to come up with an SOP to curb the menace. Out of Rs. 49.65 lakh recommended by the Commission in nine cases, Rs. 22.50 lakh was paid by the Telangana government, with the assurance to pay the remaining amount of Rs. 27.15 lakh. In an incident involving the death of four persons in a blast at a DRDO-linked rocket propellant unit, three out of four families have been paid Rs. 50 lakh as relief, and the Commission has ordered payment of relief to the remaining victimas family. In a case of wrongful arrest and lathi charge by the police, the NHRC directed the state government to submit all relevant documents, including environmental clearance and consent to establish the plant. In a case regarding the trafficking of tribal women, the erring constable has been dismissed from the service, and many trafficked tribal women have been rescued. The Commission on Tuesday held a meeting with the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police and other senior officers of the Telangana government on various aspects of human rights. They were sensitised on the implementation of policies and programmes of the government in such a manner that no one is left out. Emphasis was laid on preventive and systemic steps to be taken so that human rights are not violated. It was underscored that human rights concerns impacted by the environment, climate change, and business needed to be addressed. Issues like crime against women, crime against children, man-animal conflict leading to deaths in many districts of Telangana, large number of children suffering from malnutrition, problems faced by the SC Corporation, lack of government primary schools, the plight of farmers including those engaged in the production of fish seeds, the rights of the LGBTQI community, etc. were discussed. Later, the Commission also interacted with the representatives of civil society, NGOs and human rights defenders (HRDs). The Commission reiterated that it believes in working in tandem with SHRCs and the civil society representatives for the protection and promotion of human rights. NGO representatives and HRDs highlighted various issues like problems of the elderly, disabled persons, bedridden patients, etc. Justice V. Ramasubramanian observed that the continued partnership of the NGOs and HRDs with the National Human Rights Commission will go a long way in strengthening human rights in the country. They were also informed that they can file complaints of human rights violations online through hrcnet.nic.in Dr. Justice Shameem Akther, Chairperson of the Telangana State Human Rights Commission, was present in all the meetings. Hyderabad, July 29 : The Telangana Police's CID on Tuesday arrested Mudra Agriculture Skill Development Multi-State Co-operative Society Limited Chairman, Thippeneni Ramadasappa Naidu, in a Rs 140 crore fraud case. The CID arrested Ramadasappa Naidu, 61, from Amaravati in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. He is accused of cheating over 2,000 farmers and unemployed youth to the tune of Rs 140 crore under the guise of a government-linked scheme. The CID also arrested Naiduas son and another accused, Thippeneni Sai Kiran, a member of the society, in Hyderabad. According to the CID, this is a case of criminal breach of trust, cheating, and illegal collection of deposits from farmers and unemployed youth by Ramadasappa Naidu. He, along with others, with a criminal intent, established the Mudra Agriculture Skill Development Multi-State Co-Operative Society Limited, mimicking the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, a Central government scheme, and projected it as a government-backed initiative. They enticed farmers and unemployed youth by promising jobs and high-interest returns on deposits. The Chairman also falsely claimed that the society would be converted into a full-fledged bank within two years and that all associated members would become permanent government employees, the CID said. "Based on these false promises, the accused collected deposits from daily wage workers, farmers, and shopkeepers, amounting to approximately Rs 140 crore, and diverted the funds for personal use," said the CID. Based on victimsa complaints, 10 cases were registered against the accused at various police stations in Telangana between 2020 and 2022. All the cases are being investigated by the CID. Additional Director General of Police, CID, Charu Sinha, said the investigation revealed that the chairman published advertisements in Telugu newspapers offering 2,000 government marketing supervisor jobs. Believing these advertisements to be true, many from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh applied. The accused retained original educational certificates and collected amounts under the guise of share capital and investment bonds instead of fixed deposits. Employees were given targets to collect deposits from farmers, and when they failed, the amounts were deducted from their salaries. Several employees, who resigned, were denied the return of their certificates and investments. If they resisted, the accused threatened them with negative coverage in the 'Margadarshi' newspaper, falsely alleging links with anti-social elements, she said. The main accused also took signatures on blank white papers and withheld salaries. The society had opened 330 branches and recruited around 1,600 employees. A significant portion of the collected funds was invested in APIIC Limited for acquiring industrial plots in Andhra Pradesh. Further investigation is ongoing to trace the fund flow and identify other accused, the Additional DGP said. Srinagar, July 29 : General officer commanding-in-Chief (GOC-n-C) northern command, Lt General Pratik Sharma, on Tuesday called on J&K Lt Governor (L-G), Manoj Sinha and briefed him on Operation Mahadev in which all three terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam killings of 26 civilians have been eliminated. Army's Udhampur headquartered northern command said on X, "Three Pakistani hardcore terrorists involved in orchestrating the dastardly Pahalgam attack were neutralised in a joint, coordinated and protracted operation by the army, J&K police and CRPF on July 28. It said that the terrorists have been identified as Suleman Shah alias Faisal Jaat, Hamza Afghani and Jibran Bhai. "Two AK series rifles, one M4 rifle and a large quantity of ammunition and warlike stores were recovered from the spot. The mission marks a critical step in restoring security in Kashmir and the commitment of the IA towards establishing peace and development. The operation continues," it said. Earlier today, Lt General Pratik Sharma, GOC-n-C Northern Command, called on J&K L-G, Manoj Sinha and briefed him on Operation Mahadev. He was accompanied by Lt. Gen. Prashant Srivastava, General Officer Commanding (GOC)Srinagar headquartered 15 Corps. The L-G congratulated the Army, CRPF, and J&K Police for the successful Operation Mahadev. This crucial operation, executed in the challenging Dachigam forest, resulted in the elimination of three Pakistani terrorists responsible for the heinous Pahalgam terror attack. GOC-in-C Northern Command informed that search operations had been ongoing in the Dachigam forest areas for the past few months. There were persistent reports about terrorists hiding in this area. Recently, based on specific intelligence inputs, special teams were activated. A joint operation was then launched by the Army, Jammu & Kashmir Police and Central Reserve Police Force, with the significant assistance of intelligence agencies, leading to the elimination of Pakistani terrorists. New Delhi, July 29 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a forceful address to the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, defended Operation Sindoor as a decisive and historic counter-terror mission that not only dismantled Pakistan-based terror infrastructure but also exposed the political opportunism of the Opposition. Rising to speak on Operation Sindoor, PM Modi declared, "I stand here to present Bharat's stand." He described in detail how Indian forces penetrated deep into Pakistan to destroy terror camps, stating that "for the first time, India's strategy extended into areas we had never reached before we dismantled terror networks inside Pakistan itself." The Prime Minister highlighted that the Pahalgam massacre of April 22, in which terrorists killed innocent civilians after asking their religion, was a calculated attempt to trigger communal violence and destabilise national unity. "But the strength of Indian unity crushed that conspiracy," he said. In a clear dig at the Congress, PM Modi condemned the Opposition's reaction in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack. "They were celebrating too early. They thought they had scored a political point by asking, 'Where is 56-inch Modi now?' They were mocking, laughing, playing politics over the blood of innocents," he charged. "Congress wasn't looking for justice; they were looking for headlines," he said, adding that such remarks were demoralising the armed forces. "Their statements showed sheer pettiness. They don't trust the Army's strength, nor India's capabilities." Referring to the global reaction, PM Modi noted that 193 countries watched India's actions, and not one stopped us. Only three nations stood with Pakistan. "From Sindoor to Sindhu, the world saw India's resolve," he asserted. He also revealed that after Pakistan's infrastructure suffered massive losses, its military leadership requested India's DGMO to halt the assault, leading to the suspension of Operation Sindoor on May 10. "It was not endedjust paused. If Pakistan misbehaves again, it will resume with even more aggression," he warned. PM Modi expressed disappointment that instead of trusting Indian forces and their evidence, some opposition leaders chose to amplify Pakistan's propaganda. "Our Army gave the facts, but some in this country preferred to spread enemy lies." He ended by stating that Congress might win headlines with such politics, but they will never win the hearts of the Indian people. Amaravati, July 29 : Opposition YSR Congress Party will launch an app to enable party workers or citizens to record 'injustices' at the hands of any officer and the same will be opened after the party comes back to power to pay back the perpetrators, announced party president and former Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Tuesday. He said anyone being harassed by any official can record his complaint on the app and can also upload evidence, if any. "Any party worker or anyone facing a false case, harassment or torture may go to the app and record his complaint with all details like the nature of injustice, the name of the official harassing them and the name of the person at whose instance the official is harassing them. He can also upload evidence, including videos," the YSRCP chief said while addressing the meeting of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) of the party. He said the complaints registered on the app will go to the digital library created by the party. "Tomorrow, after we come to power, we will open this digital library and make all the perpetrators face the full force of the law. We will show them the 'cinema'. We will pay back with interest," said the former Chief Minister. He lashed out at Chandrababu Naidu-led coalition government for its vindictive attitude towards political adversaries and neglecting all sections of society by failing to implement poll promises. Jagan called upon the party cadre to brace up to expose the failures of the government and further strengthen the party from the grassroots, saying the future is waiting for their leadership. He alleged that the coalition government is steeped in corruption and, to divert attention and cover up its failures in implementing welfare schemes, has been fabricating false cases against YSRCP leaders with a vendetta to spread fear. "But we are strong enough to face the challenges, as the Party itself was born out of struggle and stuck to its principles all the way," he said and told the members to be vigilant, united, and use the power of social media in exposing the failures of the coalition. He gave a detailed account of how vindictive the government has been and arrested MP Midhun Reddy, Nandigama Suresh, Kakani Govardhan Reddy, Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, and others. The YSRCP chief said the persecution of senior leader RK Roja and woman ZP Chairperson Uppala Harika, besides the harassment of Peddireddy at Tadipatri, shows the vindictive attitude of the Chandrababu government towards political adversaries. On the other side, there has been rampant corruption, and the police have turned into collection agents for the ruling party leaders. From sand to rice, liquor to gambling dens, all are run in mafia style. Liquor outlets have mushroomed, taking corruption and crime to the next level, he said. He alleged that the education, medical, and agriculture sectors were totally neglected by stopping fee reimbursement and other initiatives, blunting Nadu-Nedu works, and putting Aarogyasri on hold by not paying bills to the tune of Rs 4,200 crore. RBKs have become non-functional, adversely affecting farmers who are not getting MSP for their crops, and the state is failing to procure the produce. Affirming that his government has a better fiscal record, Jagan said the total loans taken were Rs 3.32 lakh crore during 2019-24, while Naidu has spent 52 per cent of that amount in just 14 months. While the national revenue grew by 12 per cent, the state's revenue stagnated below 3 per cent, with public funds going into private pockets. His Singapore trip is only to stash the looted funds, he alleged Kolkata, July 29 : West Bengal Trinamool Congress General Secretary Kunal Ghosh, on Tuesday, claimed that whichever voter's list is voted on, Mamata Banerjee will again become the Chief Minister of West Bengal after the 2026 Assembly polls, with the party winning at least more than 250 seats in the 294-seat Assembly. The statement from the Trinamool Congress leader came hours after the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, asked the Election Commission of India to take action against Chief Minister Banerjee for intimidating the Booth Level Officers (BLO). Reacting to Adhikari's letter to the Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, earlier in the day, Ghosh said that BJP leaders in the state were frustrated with no prospect of winning the election to be held next year. "Sensing imminent defeat, BJP leaders have once again resorted to influencing the Election Commission of India to take steps which will go in their favour. We have seen this in previous elections as well, and every time the Trinamool Congress emerged stronger than before," the Trinamool Congress leader added. Exuding confidence that the Trinamool Congress will defeat the BJP in next year's Assembly polls, Ghosh said that LoP Adhikari was talking out of his imagination. "They (BJP) do not understand what the people of Bengal want. The Election Commission of India is being used politically. After we raised our voice on the matter, the Supreme Court and many other courts have made observations that legal voters should not be left out from any voter's list. But whichever list is voted on, Mamata Banerjee is going to become the Chief Minister after winning more than 250 seats for her party," he added. In 2021 Assembly polls, the Trinamool Congress had won 213 seats while the BJP had bagged 77 seats. On Tuesday, LoP Adhikari wrote a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner, requesting the latter to take suo motu action against Chief Minister Banerjee for allegedly making unauthorised attempts to interfere in the electoral process by "intimidation and maliciously influencing the BLOs" in the state. In the backdrop of speculations of a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) for West Bengal's electoral roll taking place in August, the 2002 voters' list of some districts has been made available online on the website of the State's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO). The last SIR of the voters' list in West Bengal was conducted in 2002. Kolkata, July 29 : A Chinese national, carrying two Swiss passports with different names, was arrested near the Indo-Nepal international border near Siliguri in Darjeeling district in the northern sector of West Bengal on Tuesday. He was nabbed by the personnel of the Border Interaction Team of 'C' Corps of the 41st battalion of Sashastra Seema Bal early Tuesday morning when he was entering the Indian territory illegally under the Mechi bridge in Panitanki area in north Bengal, which shares the country's border with Nepal. According to SSB sources, the jawans became suspicious of the body language of the arrested individual and intercepted him. Upon checking his identity documents, the central force personnel became sure of his doubtful background. After the initial interrogation and verifying his documents, the jawans recovered two Swiss passports from his possession with two different names. In one of the passports, his name was mentioned as Khamritshang Seten Gurme. However, in another passport, his name was mentioned as Sengeitsang Karma Jimmy. At the same time, a fake Nepali citizenship card was recovered from the arrested person. Since the matter was sensitive and suspicious, the intelligence and security departments of the SSB jointly interrogated the person and collected all the information. Later, they handed him over to the cops of the local Kharibari police station of the Darjeeling district police. Darjeeling Superintendent of Police Praveen Prakash confirmed the arrest of the Chinese national. aHe will be taken into custody and questioned. It is being investigated whether anyone else is involved in the incident," he added. It may be noted that on October 13 last year, the SSB and West Bengal Police had arrested a Chinese national and an Indian broker at the same place. Before that, in July 2023, a Chinese citizen with a forged Nepali identity document was arrested at the same Panitanki area. Kolkata, July 29 : West Bengal Police said on Tuesday that they have arrested a couple from Darbhanga in Bihar against whom over 900 cases of cyber fraud have been registered across the country during the last two years. The police identified the arrested couple, Shubhajit Ballav and Riya Haldar Ballav, who cheated over 900 people in several states, including West Bengal. The Cooch Behar police arrested the couple from a hotel in Darbhanga city of Bihar late Monday. They hailed from Ranaghat in Nadia district. Earlier, the couple was arrested once by the cops of the Jangipur Police Station in Murshidabad district. However, after getting bail, they resorted to cheating again. On Tuesday, Cooch Behar District Superintendent of Police, Duteeman Bhattacharya, told media persons about the couple's arrest. "Two cases were filed in the Sahebganj and Tufanganj police stations of Cooch Behar. While investigating the case, the husband and wife were arrested from a hotel in the Darbhanga area of Bihar last night. We brought them to Cooch Behar on transit remand today," Bhattacharya added. The police said they used to commit fraud by targeting customer service points in front of various Border Security Force (BSF) outposts near the border. The investigation revealed that the couple was committing money fraud by targeting people who came to the Customer Service Point (CSP) located near the BSF Border Outpost (BOP). The fraudsters used to call them from unknown mobile numbers pretending to be BSF officers, company commanders, or inspectors. "They used to say that if they sent some money, it would be returned in cash or on commission. The victims later went to the BSF camp and realised that such a person did not exist," Bhattacharya said. After entering Shubhajit's phone number on the National Crime Records Portal, it showed that 877 FIRs mentioned that mobile number in 2024. There were 68 cases in 2025. Out of these, 19 cases were filed in the Cooch Behar district. And in the 68 cases of 2025, the couple is accused of cheating the people of Rs. 48 lakh 15 thousand. According to police records, there are 183 cases registered against them in Uttar Pradesh, 107 in Rajasthan, 77 in Telangana, 60 in Maharashtra, 55 in Delhi, 54 in Bihar, 49 in Tamil Nadu, and 43 in West Bengal. Apart from this, 258 cases have been registered against the couple in the different Union Territories. Bengaluru, July 29 : The Karnataka Lokayukta Police conducted simultaneous raids at 25 locations connected to five government officials and uncovered disproportionate assets worth Rs 24.44 crore, according to an official statement released on Tuesday. The officials under investigation are Omprakash, Senior Assistant Director of Horticulture, BDA, Bengaluru; N. Venkatesh, Tax Assessor, Shettyhalli Sub-Division, BBMP, Bengaluru; Anjaneya Murthy M., Junior Engineer, Rural Drinking Water and Sanitation Department, Gowribidanur Taluk, Chikkaballapur District; Jayanna R., Executive Engineer, National Highway, Hassan Division; and Dr. Venkatesh G., Taluk Health Officer, Hiriyur Taluk, Chitradurga District. The raids were carried out simultaneously at the residences, offices, and even properties of relatives of the accused officials across more than 25 locations. Following these extensive searches, significant evidence of the accused acquiring assets disproportionate to their known sources of income was discovered. In the case of Omprakash, searches were conducted at five locations. The Lokayukta police uncovered immovable assets, including two sites and two houses valued at Rs 4.78 crore. Additionally, they found movable assets comprising Rs 5 lakh in cash, gold ornaments worth Rs 60.96 lakh, vehicles worth Rs 34 lakh, and fixed deposits worth Rs 48 lakh. The total value of his disproportionate assets is estimated at Rs 6.26 crore. Raids on N. Venkatesh revealed immovable assets such as two sites, three houses, one farmhouse, and 6 acres 17 guntas of agricultural land, together valued at Rs 2.25 crore. Movable assets included Rs 2.80 lakh in cash, gold ornaments worth Rs 10.85 lakh, vehicles worth Rs 3.85 lakh, and other valuables worth Rs 15 lakh. The total value of disproportionate assets is pegged at Rs 2.57 crore. A disproportionate assets case has been registered at the Karnataka Lokayukta Police Station in Hassan. In the case of Dr. Venkatesh G., raids were carried out at three places, leading to the discovery of five sites, two houses, and 3 acres 5 guntas of agricultural land, valued at Rs 2.87 crore. Movable assets included Rs 54,200 in cash, gold ornaments worth Rs 17.25 lakh, vehicles worth Rs 21.40 lakh, and household articles worth Rs 28.30 lakh. The total value of disproportionate assets in his case stands at Rs 3.54 crore. Searches conducted at five properties linked to Jayanna R. uncovered 17 sites, eight houses, and 1 acre 36 guntas of agricultural land, altogether valued at Rs 5.59 crore. In addition, the police found Rs 1.36 lakh in cash, gold ornaments worth Rs 18.99 lakh, vehicles worth Rs 26 lakh, and other valuables, including bank deposits and locker contents worth Rs 23 lakh. The total estimated value of his disproportionate assets is Rs 6.28 crore. A case has been registered at the Karnataka Lokayukta Police Station in Chikkaballapur. Finally, raids at eight locations associated with Anjaneya Murthy M. revealed five sites, one house, and a commercial complex valued at Rs 4.83 crore. The police also seized gold ornaments worth Rs 50 lakh, vehicles worth Rs 15.65 lakh, and other items worth Rs 28 lakh. The total value of disproportionate assets in this case is estimated at Rs 5.77 crore. These raids are part of a continuing crackdown by the Karnataka Lokayukta on corruption and accumulation of unaccounted wealth among government officials. Further investigation is underway in all cases. SUVA, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The Fiji Police Force has successfully intercepted a major influx of illicit drugs in recent months, preventing an estimated 81.4 million Fijian dollars (around 36.3 million U.S. dollars) worth of narcotics from hitting the streets. Between March and May 2025, police confiscated more than nine tons of harvested marijuana, with a street value of approximately 35 million U.S. dollars, local media reported. Additionally, police seized 4.9 kg of white substances, suspected to be methamphetamine and related drugs, worth around 1.3 million U.S. dollars. Assistant Commissioner of Police Aporosa Lutunauga said these significant seizures were the result of targeted drug operations in known hotspot regions, such as Kadavu, Navosa, and Cakaudrove, that have long been associated with cannabis cultivation and trafficking. "These seizures reflect a disturbing trend in drug activity across rural Fiji," Lutunauga said, adding that many of marijuana farms that have been uprooted have no identifiable owners. Lutunauga said that the challenge goes beyond enforcement. Communities must actively participate in efforts to stop the spread of drugs, especially in rural areas where criminal networks often exploit economic hardships. New Delhi, July 29 : Gujarat-born eminent economist and UK House of Lords member Megnadh Desai passed away on Tuesday at the age of 85. He was Professor Emeritus at the London School of Economics, where he taught from 1965 to 2003. Born in 1940 at Vododra, Desai completed his Masteras degree from the University of Bombay, after which he did his PhD at the University of Pennsylvania in 1960. Desai was a globally respected Indian-British economist, academic, and political thinker whose career spanned over 60 years. In 1991, he was elevated as Lord Desai and contributed to the Labour Partyas economic policy without hesitating to challenge its leadership with his fiercely independent thinking. In India, he founded the Meghnad Desai Academy of Economics in Mumbai. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences to the family of Meghnad Desai. Sharing his message on X, the PM wrote: "Anguished by the passing away of Shri Meghnad Desai Ji, a distinguished thinker, writer and economist. He always remained connected to India and Indian culture. He also played a role in deepening India-UK ties. Will fondly recall our discussions, where he shared his valuable insights. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti. Lord Desai made a huge impact in academic and political spheres in Britain as a London School of Economics (LSE) professor, Labour politician and honorary associate of the National Secular Society. Desaias research stretched across five decades, covering a range of topics related to the impact of the private sector and the state in development and Marxian economics, including globalisation and market liberalisation. He started writing about Marxian Economic Theory in the early 1970s and extended his fields of interest to econometrics, monetary economics and economic development. He founded LSEas Centre for the Study of Global Governance. A prolific writer, he authored eight books and published over 200 academic papers, while also contributing columns to Indian and British publications. Some of his books include Marxian Economic Theory, Marx's Revenge: The Resurgence of Capitalism and the Death of Statist Socialism, The Rediscovery of India and Who Wrote the Bhagavat Gita. Kohima, July 29 : The Nagaland cabinet in its meeting on Wednesday deliberated on the Centre's proposal to resolve pending issues related to the demand for creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory, Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton said on Tuesday. Since 2010, the Eastern Nagaland Peoples' Organisation (ENPO) has been agitating for a separate 'Frontier Nagaland Territory' or separate state comprising six eastern Nagaland districts -- Kiphire, Longleng, Mon, Noklak, Shamator, and Tuensang, inhabited by seven backwards tribes. The Nagaland government took the decision to discuss the Frontier Nagaland Territory issue in the cabinet after the third tripartite meeting held on July 23 in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Nagaland government, and leaders of the ENPO. Patton, who holds the Home and Border Affairs portfolios, said that the cabinet meeting to be chaired by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio would discuss the matter. "We shall also discuss with the ENPO leaders on Wednesday on the issue," Patton, also a senior BJP leader, told the media on the sidelines of an official event. According to an official, in the New Delhi meeting, a couple of contentious issues were reportedly resolved, barring a few pending ones from the Nagaland government side. The Union government has requested the state government to resolve the pending issues at the earliest. The ENPO has been organising various agitations for the past 15 years demanding a separate 'Frontier Nagaland Territory' or separate state comprising six eastern Nagaland districts -- Kiphire, Longleng, Mon, Noklak, Shamator, and Tuensang, inhabited by seven backwards tribes -- Chang, Khiamniungan, Konyak, Phom, Tikhir, Sangtam and Yimkhiung. The state government also submitted their comments on the third draft of the Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) in respect of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority to the MHA in November last year. Several rounds of discussions have already been held on the issue, in New Delhi and in Nagaland, and substantial progress has been made, and the government is hopeful that any remaining concerns of the ENPO will be addressed, the government official pointed out. The ENPO had boycotted several important elections, including the 2023 Assembly polls, to press for their demands. Patna, July 29 : A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Patna High Court seeking urgent judicial intervention over the recurring waterlogging crisis in the city during every monsoon season on Tuesday. The petition, filed by Dr. Prabhat Chandra, a dentist, along with others, questions the failure of the administration and the Patna Municipal Corporation to provide a permanent solution to the long-standing issue. The PIL highlights how, despite annual assurances by the authorities, severe waterlogging continues to paralyse life in Patna during the rainy season. The petition states that claims of preparedness and drainage management fall flat every year, exposing thousands of citizens to immense hardship. Dr. Prabhat Chandra, the lead petitioner, shared how patients were unable to reach his clinic and his own mobility was restricted due to the submerged roads. The PIL urges the court to direct the state government and municipal bodies to take war-level action for effective drainage and infrastructure improvements. The petition also refers to a similar PIL filed in 2008 by advocate Shyam Kishore Sharma, in which the High Court had taken a strict stand and issued directives to fix the city's drainage system. However, no lasting solution has been implemented since then, the PIL alleges. It underscores that localities such as Rajendranagar, Kankarbagh, Pataliputra, Ashiana Nagar, and Rajiv Nagar are among the worst-affected areas, yet no long-term planning or execution has been done to resolve the problem permanently. This yearas monsoon has once again exposed the crumbling urban infrastructure of the state capital. Continuous rainfall over the past two days has led to water accumulation in VVIP areas such as Rajvanshi Nagar and even Urja Stadium, with drain water overflowing onto the roads, blurring the lines between streets and sewers. Movement has become nearly impossible in several places without vehicles or boots, raising concerns over health hazards and access to basic services. The PIL stresses that basic civic amenities must be ensured before any talk of transforming Patna into a 'Smart City'. It demands that the court hold the administration accountable for its chronic neglect, which has jeopardised public health, mobility, and access to emergency services. The High Court is likely to hear the matter on July 30, when it may seek detailed responses from the concerned departments. Jaipur, July 29 : Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman at Parliament House on Tuesday. During the meeting, he apprised her of the state government's financial management, the progress of various development projects, and the implementation of public welfare schemes. The two leaders held a positive and constructive discussion on the state's financial needs and explored avenues for possible central cooperation. Senior officials from the Rajasthan government were also present during the meeting, said CMO officials. Earlier in the day, CM Sharma had a meeting with PM Narendra Modi to discuss the development of the state and future projects. The Chief Minister shared the information about the meeting on the social media platform X. "Met the Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji and held a meaningful discussion on the development of Rajasthan. On behalf of the people of the state, I extended heartfelt gratitude for his visionary leadership and unwavering support," the CM wrote. "Over the past 11 years, under the esteemed leadership of the Prime Minister, India has scaled new heights and emerged as a leading force on the global stage. Guided by his vision, Rajasthan has, over the last one and a half years, made significant progress by steadily overcoming developmental challenges," he added. The CM said that the double-engine government is consistently working to make Rajasthan a model state -- "one where every farmer, youth, woman, and underprivileged citizen is empowered, receives justice, and leads a life of dignity and opportunity". CM Sharma said the Prime Minister has assured continued and increased support for Rajasthan's development in the times ahead. "We are truly grateful to him on behalf of every citizen of the state," he wrote. On Monday, CM Sharma held meetings with several Union Ministers in Delhi to review ongoing Central schemes and seek support for upcoming projects in Rajasthan. He met Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the Union Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development; Manohar Lal, Union Minister for Energy, Housing and Urban Affairs; and C.R. Paatil, Union Jal Shakti Minister, at the Krishi Bhawan in New Delhi. Patna, July 29 : In a significant disclosure on Tuesday, Additional Director General (ADG) of Police, Prohibition Division, Amit Kumar Jain stated that from January to June 2025, the Bihar Police has seized over 16 lakh litres of illegal liquor, marking a 12 per cent increase from the same period last year. Out of the total seizure, more than 8 lakh litres were Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), valued at over Rs 74 crore. ADG Jain emphasised that the spike in foreign liquor seizures is a result of enhanced surveillance, stricter enforcement, and an upgraded strategy under the Prohibition Department. "The illegal liquor network has especially been focusing on smuggling imported and premium brands, but our intensified operations have effectively curbed these attempts," said Jain. The crackdown on the illegal liquor trade has extended beyond Bihar, with 17 major operations conducted in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and other bordering states. These efforts led to the identification of 305 accused, actively involved in supplying liquor into Bihar from outside the state. Raids are ongoing, and further arrests are expected. To contain the spread from habitual offenders, 1,344 repeat offenders have been expelled from their respective districts, and property seizure proceedings have begun against 240 criminals. "Since the Bihar government implemented total prohibition in 2016, 6,40,379 people have been convicted under the Prohibition Act. Among them, over 6.38 lakh offenders of these cases were related to drinking alcohol. 9 individuals have been sentenced to death and 18 received life imprisonment," ADG Jain said. Several others have been sentenced to 10 years or more in jail. Over 75,000 vehicles used in smuggling operations have been auctioned, generating Rs 4,285 crore in revenue. Of the seized vehicles, 57 per cent were caught directly by the Prohibition Department. "With the Bihar Assembly Elections approaching, prohibition enforcement has been intensified in the state. Check posts are being strengthened in all 23 border districts. Coordination has been established with authorities in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Chandigarh, Haryana, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and Arunachal Pradesh - from where most smuggled foreign liquor originates," the ADG said. "Offenders are being tracked using QR codes, with retailers, wholesalers, and suppliers being identified and investigated. Nodal officers have been appointed in all these states for direct inter-state cooperation," he said. "The Central Prohibition Unit, in coordination with the Excise Department, SSB, Railway Police, and others, is holding regular joint meetings. These collaborative efforts are ensuring that the prohibition law remains strictly enforced," ADG Jain said. "The crackdown on illegal liquor trade has intensified and will continue with greater coordination and vigilance. Our strategy is to choke the supply chain from the source and ensure no illegal liquor enters Bihar," he added. Bengaluru, July 29 : The Karnataka government, on Tuesday, announced hosting Duncan Haldane (2016 Physics Nobel laureaute) and David Gross (2004 Physics Nobel laureate) for an exclusive dialogue on July 30. The interaction precedes the nation's first-ever Quantum India Bengaluru Summit, scheduled on July 31 and August 1. Announcing the event, State Minister for Minor Irrigation, Science and Technology, N.S. Boseraju said, "Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, our government is laying the groundwork to position Karnataka as India's Quantum Capital. This dialogue with Nobel laureates marks the beginning of a long-term roadmap to integrate quantum innovation into Karnataka's development blueprint." With Bengaluru already recognised as the nation's innovation nucleus, Karnataka is accelerating efforts to harness quantum technologies for economic and social transformation, the Minister added. From IT and aerospace to cutting-edge quantum frontiers, the state aims to strengthen its position on the global innovation map, Minister Boseraju said. "The dialogue will facilitate high-level discussions between the Nobel Laureates and Karnataka's top officials, including the Principal Secretaries of Industries, IT and Biotechnology, and Higher Education. The exchange is expected to pave the way for advancing quantum research, infrastructure, and collaborations with global experts," he added. "The presence of Nobel laureates at the Quantum India Bengaluru Summit underscores the international significance of the event, which will bring together global and national leaders in quantum science, placing Karnataka at the epicentre of India's quantum revolution," the Minister said. Sadashiva Prabhu, Managing Director of Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society , Indian Institute of Science Professor Akshay Naik, Co-chair of the summit, and other senior officials were present during the preparatory meeting at Vikasa Soudha. Imphal, July 29 : Assam Rifles on Tuesday held a grand wreath laying ceremony to honour the three courageous soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation's security during a complex search operation in Manipur in 2020, officials said. Imphal, July 29 (IANS) Assam Rifles on Tuesday held a grand wreath laying ceremony to honour the three courageous soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nationas security during a complex search operation in Manipur in 2020, officials said. The ceremony paid homage to the valour and ultimate sacrifice of Havildar late Pranay Kalita, Rifleman late Ratan Salam and Rifleman late Methna Konyak, whose exceptional bravery averted greater tragedy on that fateful day on July 29, 2020, at Sajik Tampak in Chandel district, bordering Myanmar. A defence spokesman said that the operation at Sajik Tampak had been launched to neutralise insurgent threats and sanitise the area. While returning from their mission, the team, comprising one Junior Commissioned Officer and 14 other ranks, came under sudden attack in the evening. Insurgents targeted the group using a remote-controlled Improvised Explosive Device, followed by a heavy barrage of firepower including sophisticated assault rifles and lathode grenades, he said. Despite sustaining grievous injuries, Havildar Pranay Kalita, Rifleman Ratan Salam and Rifleman Methna Konyak responded with extraordinary composure and grit. Their swift and resolute counter-fire forced the insurgents to withdraw in haste, ultimately saving the lives of their comrades and underscoring the indomitable spirit of the Assam Rifles. Attendees at Tuesday's ceremony included senior officials and troops who gathered to remember the fallen, reflecting with pride on their courage, resolute duty and unwavering selflessness. Wreaths were laid in a poignant act of remembrance, and tributes were paid with a Guard of Honour, reinforcing the values of sacrifice and dedication that remain the bedrock of Indiaas security forces. Further underscoring its commitment to the families of those who serve, Assam Rifles also honoured the Veer Naris of Havildar late Pranay Kalita, Rifleman late Ratan Salam and Rifleman late Methna Konyak with a heartfelt felicitation. The recognition served as a reminder that the strength and sacrifices of military families are an inseparable part of the nationas collective resolve. This ceremony not only commemorated the courage of the men who laid down their lives for national security but also reaffirmed Assam Riflesa steadfast commitment to honouring the legacy of its brave hearts, supporting their families and upholding the ideals of duty and service to the nation, the spokesman added. Mumbai, July 29 : Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, on Tuesday jointly decided to bail out ministers who were hogging the headlines for sparking controversies. The trio has decided not to seek the resignations of such ministers despite strong demand from the opposition and various organisations. Instead, the ministers have been reprimanded and asked to focus on their departmental work and not to make statements that may stoke controversy. The ministers, who have thereby got a new lease of life, included agriculture minister Manikrao Kokate, school education minister Dadaji Bhuse, social justice minister Sanjay Shirsat, soil and water conservation minister Sanjay Rathod and minister of state for home Yogesh Kadam. Kokate, who has been under fire for playing rummy in the state council and terming the government a beggar, separately met Pawar and NCP national president Manikrao Kokate and argued his case. Pawar has reportedly rapped him for sparking controversies and asked him not to repeat it. A senior MahaYuti minister said, "The Chief Minister has asked all ministers not to speak to the press and media and avoid making controversial comments that may dent the government's image and wash out its good work. These ministers will not have to resign, but they will continue to hold the ministries allocated and work, laying focus on departmental works." Kokate had made a controversial statement a few months ago while talking about the crop insurance of farmers. He had commented, "Nowadays, even beggars do not take a single rupee. However, we gave crop insurance to farmers for one rupee. Some people misused this scheme." While clarifying his earlier comment, Kokate today said that the government is a beggar and not the farmers. Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat was also criticised after a video went viral about him sitting next to a bag full of currency in his bedroom. Further, the issue of the tender of Sambhajinagar hotel bagged by social justice minister Sanjay Shirsat's son despite a lack of necessary eligibility conditions was raised by the Leader of Opposition in the state council, Ambadas Danve. Although the minister's son has withdrawn from the tendering process after much noise, the Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a high-level probe into the matter. School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse is being cornered by the opposition over the alleged irregularities in the recruitment process. Similarly, the ruling establishment became uncomfortable after Shiv Sena legislator Anil Parab levelled serious allegations against Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam's son and Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam, over the illegal sand trading and dance bar raids. That prompted the Chief Minister to announce that if there is any truth in the material, he will take further action, while Yogesh Kadam outside the house said he would at an appropriate time prove that the allegations were false. Soil and Water Conservation Minister Sanjay Rathod hit the headlines for the alleged corruption during departmental postings. Kat Brzozowski at Feiwel and Friends has acquired, at auction, Grave Enchantments, a whimsical YA romantasy with an edge by debut author Angel Briley. Set in a backdrop of eternal autumn, a teenage executioner must venture into the accursed woods to save her once-idyllic town from an ominous future foretold by talking severed heads, with the help of a quartet of tea-loving ghosts and a frustratingly charming prince from a nearby bog. Publication is set for 2027; Saffron Dodd and Paula Weiman at ASH Literary sold North American rights. Elizabeth Stranahan at Random House has bought Our Dark Unraveling by Margot McGovern, a YA contemporary horror pitched as Practical Magic meets Don't Let the Forest In. Two roommates are left reeling when a classmate dies in a freak accident. But when the boy's ghost begins appearing on campus, it becomes clear the dead has unfinished businessand this ghost is determined to be just as controlling in death as he was in life. Publication is slated for fall 2026; Talia Moodley at PRH Australia sold U.S., Canada, Philippines, and non-exclusive world rights except U.K. and Commonwealth English rights. Caitlin Tutterow at Penguin/Nancy Paulsen Books has acquired, in an exclusive submission, A Dream of Blood by Heather M. Herrman, a YA gothic horror novel about a grieving teen musician who moves to a small coastal town, only to discover the bloody truth behind his own family's deaths might be related to the vampire-hunting cult residing there. Meanwhile a vampire girl looks upon his arrival as her decades-long awaited chance to settle a blood debt of her own. Publication is slated for summer 2027; Barbara Poelle at Word One Literary Agency sold world rights. Jill Santopolo at Philomel has bought Newbery Honor author Chanel Miller's The Moon Without Stars, a middle grade novel that explores the glorious mess that is middle school. When 12-year-old Luna, a quiet, observant girl who loves writing and making zines with her best friend, Scott, is swept up into the popular group, she learns just how much of herself she's going to have to compromise to stay there. Publication is scheduled for January 2026; Flip Brophy at Sterling Lord Literistic negotiated the deal for U.S. and Canada rights. Brittany Willis at Moon + Bird has acquired, in an exclusive submission, world rights to Creepy Rides: Real-Life Stories of Haunted Cars, Terrifying Trains, Spooky Ships and More, an illustrated middle grade collection of hair-raising stories about scary vehicles from around the world by Heather Alexander (l.), illustrated by Marilisa Cotroneo. Publication is planned for July 2027; Elizabeth Bennett at Transatlantic Agency represented the author, and Gary Swift at Lemonade Illustration Agency represented the illustrator. Juan Botero at Candlewick has bought world rights to House Dragons by Julie Kagawa (the Iron Fey and Fateless series), pitched as My Little Pony with tiny dragons, a chapter book series that sets a brave young hero on an epic journey to rescue a dragon from the princessbut wait, shouldn't it be the other way around? Laurie McLean at Fuse Literary did the four-book deal for publication in winter 2027, 2028, and 2029. Kortney Nash at Macmillan/Godwin Books has acquired world English rights to Friendship Is an Invitation, a picture book by Margaret Chiu Greanias (l.), illustrated by Yu Chiao Kuo. When Chih-Ming moves to America, he misses the familiar faces in Taiwan. As he befriends his neighbor Paul, each playdate ends with an invitation to try something new together, from the Fourth of July to the Mid-Autumn Festival. But when Paul announces his family is moving away, it's Chih-Ming's turn to welcome the new arrivals to the neighborhood. Publication is set for spring 2027; Sean McCarthy at Sean McCarthy Literary Agency represented the author, and Amy Milligan at the Illo Agency represented the illustrator. Celia Lee at Simon & Schuster has bought world rights to Go Bananas! by A.B. Peale (l.), illustrated by Lala Watkins. The silly story follows a bunch of bananas as they learn that through the power of friendship, community, and movement, life can be, well, bananas! Publication is slated for spring 2026; the author represented herself, and Erica Rand Silverman at Stimola Literary Studio represented the artist. Kelly Delaney at Crown Books for Young Readers has acquired world rights to Napping Baba by Roger Lam (l.), illustrated by Alina Chau, a "Sleeping Beauty" retelling about an energetic boy and his very tired dad. Publication is scheduled for spring 2027; Tasneem Motala while at the Rights Factory represented the author, and Marietta B. Zacker at Gallt & Zacker Literary Agency represented the illustrator. Brett Duquette at Little Bee Books has bought world rights to Before It Was a Hurricane and Before It Was a Wildfire by Mary Kay Carson (l.), illustrated by Jieting Chen, a new series that explores epic disasters in reverse chronological order, exploring their stages, how they are formed, and the impact they have on communities and environments. Publication is planned for spring and summer 2026; Andrea Cascardi at Transatlantic Agency represented the author, and Alex Gehringer at the Bright Agency represented the illustrator. Justin Krasner at Sourcebooks eXplore has acquired world rights to Newton's Paws of Motion, a humorous picture book take on the fundamental principles of physics as seen through the eyes of a curious cat and his exasperated family, written by Laurie Ann Thompson (l.) and illustrated by Karen Obuhanych. Publication is set for May 2027; Ammi-Joan Paquette at Aevitas Creative Management represented the author, and Anne Moore Armstrong at the Bright Agency represented the illustrator. Natalia Vazquez Torres at Charlesbridge has bought world rights to Winter Solstice Hill by Cathy Stefanec Ogren (l.), and Cathleen Schaad has acquired world rights for illustration by Rebecca Evans. The picture book follows Ella and Gramps on a winter solstice hill adventure, where they plan to find a holiday tree and make a wish on the winter solstice star. Publication is slated for fall 2026; Victoria Selvaggio at Storm Literary Agency represented the author, and Essie White at Storm Literary Agency represented the illustrator. Deidra Purvis at Free Spirit has acquired world rights to The Best Good Thing, a picture book by child mental health clinician Anna Housley Juster (l.) (How to Train Your Amygdala), illustrated by Andrea Onishi. With the support of her mother, a girl learns to shift her perspective following a bad day at school by finding comfort and joy in small everyday moments and community. Cassie Labriola-Sitzman and Cathy Hernandez will edit; publication is scheduled for summer 2026. The author represented herself, and Robbin Brosterman at the Bright Agency represented the illustrator. Lisa Rosinsky at Barefoot Books has bought world rights to Breathe Deep, written and sung by Grammy winner Joanie Leeds (l.), illustrated by Barbara Quintino (Kwesi and Nana Ruby Learn to Swim). This singalong picture book guides young readers through steps to release stress, close their eyes, quiet their bodies, and settle their minds. Publication is planned for spring 2026; the author represented herself, and Gabriela Sousa at Filtro Ltda Janet Bruins at Picnic Heist Publishing has acquired world rights to Hungry Little Ghosts by debut author Jocelyn Wong-Trothen (l.), illustrated by Erin Hung. The picture book follows two wandering ghosts in search of a legendary feast. Publication is slated for fall 2026; the author represented herself, and Trinity McFadden at the Bindery Agency represented the illustrator. Ginee Seo at Ten Speed Young Readers has bought, in an exclusive submission, One Happy Dog and a second dog board book by artist and animal advocate Lili Chin (Kitty Language; Dogs of the World; Doggie Language). Simultaneous publication is scheduled for fall 2026; Lilly Ghahremani brokered the deal for world rights. Kat Brzozowski at Feiwel and Friends has acquired world rights to Revenge of the Final Girl by Andrea Mosqueda (Just Your Local Bisexual Disaster), in which Lili Garza, dubbed the Gatzville High Final Girl after being the lone survivor of a massacre that claimed the lives of her best friends, is forced to revisit the memory of that fateful night in order to find a killerand take revenge on the person determined to rewrite the past. Publication is set for October 2026; Lauren MacLeod at Aevitas Creative Management brokered the deal. Jenny Bak at Viking has bought Deadstream author Mar Romasco Moore's Saint Kayleigh, a YA horror novel about a teen with a rare sleeping illness who wakes from a months-long fugue state to discover that something is deeply wrong with her best friend, a popular wellness influencer who is leading her followers down a horrifying path. Publication is scheduled for fall 2027; Jim McCarthy at Dystel, Goderich & Bourret negotiated the deal for world rights. Nicole Fiorica at McElderry Books has acquired Your Better Half by Emily Charlotte (Heart Check), a YA reimagining of Jane Austen's Emma, about a teenage matchmaker, recently diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, who creates a Bachelor-style fundraiser to date her school's most stubbornly single guyonly to fall in love with the leading man herself. Publication is slated for summer 2027; Caryn Wiseman at Andrea Brown Literary Agency did the deal for world rights. Aneeka Kalia at Viking has bought world English rights to Erin Baldwin's Good Luck, Babe!, pitched as Never Ever Getting Back Together meets The Amazing Race, in which former best friends Noelle and Yumi pretend to be a sapphic couple to compete for two million dollars on their favorite reality TV show. Publication is planned for summer 2026; Lauren Spieller at Folio Literary Management handled the deal while at Triada US. Tamara Grasty at Page Street has acquired Labyrinth of Waking Dreams by Michelle Kulwicki, the first installment of a dark YA fantasy duology, in which two young magicians trained to defend humanity against a malevolent sentient Labyrinth travel to the underworld with a mysterious girl they both find intriguing in order to save the world from a terrible fate. Publication is set for spring 2026; Becca Langton at Darley Anderson brokered the two-book deal for North American rights. Karen Li at Groundwood has bought Dominic Bean and the Mammoth Melt, a middle grade novel by Emilie Christie Burack (The Runaway's Gold), pitched as Charlotte's Web meets Ice Age. In this mystery-adventure, a 12-year-old boy discovers a baby woolly surprise on his eccentric aunt and uncle's New Hampshire farm and finds himself knee-deep in his family's secret mission to save the world from climate disaster. Publication is scheduled for fall 2026; Victoria Wells Arms at HG Literary did the deal for world rights. Rotem Moscovich at Knopf has acquired world right to The Together House by Julie Bliven (l.), illustrated by Alexandra Finkeldey, a picture book about an extended family's last vacation at the lake house that they visit every summer, and all the beautiful memories they promise to hold onto as they say goodbye to it. Publication is slated for spring 2028; Erin Murphy while at Erin Murphy Literary Agency represented the author, and Emily van Beek at Folio Jr./Folio Literary Management represented the illustrator. Taylor Norman at Holiday House/Neal Porter Books has bought world rights to Ripples by Freeman Ng (l.), illustrated by Daniel Miyares, a picture book in which two young friends meet by the side of a pond at the same moment that the waves thrown off by two black holes consuming each other trillions of years ago pass over earth in a consideration of astronomy, friendship, and our connection to the universe. Publication is planned for fall 2027; Jim McCarthy at Dystel, Goderich & Bourret represented the author, and Studio Goodwin Sturges represented the illustrator. Caitlyn Dlouhy at Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books has acquired world rights, in an exclusive submission, One Egg by Naaz H. Khan (l.) (Room for Everyone), illustrated by Brizida Magro, a picture book about the adventures that transpire for a girl and her grandmother when they set out to use their one egg to make something special for their new neighbors. Publication is scheduled for fall 2028; Lilly Ghahremani at Full Circle Literary represented the author, and Andrea Morrison at Writers House represented the illustrator. Denene Millner at S&S/Denene Millner Books has bought world rights to Daisy Helps with the Dress by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich (l.), illustrated by Charis Jackson Barrios, a picture book in which, after some mishaps and misunderstandings, Daisy helps her large extended family produce the perfect wedding dress for her picky cousin, as only this repurposing-minded crew can. Publication is set for fall 2026; Marietta B. Zacker at Gallt & Zacker Literary Agency represented the author, and Chad W. Beckerman at the CAT Agency represented the illustrator. Emily Duffy at Union Square Kids has acquired Lexi K. Nilson's picture book debut, Captain, about a girl who goes on an imaginative sea-faring adventure and discovers the challenges and wonders of the world. Publication is slated for winter 2027; Linda Pratt at Wernick & Pratt Agency brokered the deal for world English rights. Mary Cash at Holiday House has bought world rights to Mad by Liza Woodruff (Phil's Big Day), a picture book that explores how Henry grapples with his anger and learns to see other perspectives. Publication is planned for summer 2027; Andrea Cascardi at Transatlantic Agency negotiated the deal. Alisha Niehaus Berger at NorthSouth/NorteSur has acquired world rights to This Is My Family by Baptiste Paul (l.), illustrated by Selina Alko, a picture book tale of acceptance and awareness about a child who has no family photos for a class project. Publication is scheduled for summer 2027, simultaneously in English and Spanish; Karen Grencik at Red Fox Literary represented the author, and Marietta B. Zacker at Gallt & Zacker Literary Agency represented the illustrator. Esther Cajahuaringa at Knopf has bought world rights to Mayu Packs the Planet, about a girl who is mad about having to move and her fantastical suitcase that fits everything from trees to the stars (and even Mama!), by Sara Andrea Fajardo (l.), illustrated by Emily Hughes. Publication is set for summer 2027; Nicole Geiger at Full Circle Literary represented the author, and Stephen Barr at Writers House represented the illustrator. Katherine Jacobs at Zonderkidz has acquired world rights to Grow, Grow, Little Baby by Danna Smith (l.) and Linda Whalen (c.), illustrated by Sian Wheatcroft (r.). This poetic book follows a family as they await a new little sibling from the light of conception to the big day of arrival. Publication is slated for January 2027; Tracy Marchini at BookEnds represented the authors, and Robbin Brosterman at the Bright Agency represented the illustrator. Michelle Lee at Dial has bought world rights to Tangled Tales of an Underground Market by Laura K. Zimmermann (l.), illustrated by Priscilla Tey. This nonfiction STEAM picture book explores the bustling market below the forest floor where plants, animals, and other creatures barter, lurk, protect, help, and more. Publication is planned for fall 2027; Kaitlyn Sanchez at Bradford Literary Agency represented the author, and Steven Malk at Writers House represented the illustrator. Anna Luketic at Sourcebooks eXplore has acquired world rights to Talk to the Dog: How to Be a Doggy Detective by Stephanie Gibeault (l.), illustrated by Madi Wong, a nonfiction picture book in which children learn how to safely communicate with dogs by reading body language cues, expressions, and actions. Publication is scheduled for summer 2027; Jacqui Lipton at Tobias Literary Agency represented the author, and Emily Fernandez at the Bright Agency represented the illustrator. Emma Parkin at Barefoot Books has bought world rights to Dragons and Other Creatures of the Sky and Mermaids and Other Creatures of the Sea by Celeste Cortright (l.) (The More We Get Together), illustrated by Giulia Orecchia (Copy That, Copy Cat!), two interactive board books that feature riddles about the mythical creatures of the sky and the sea. Publication is set for spring 2026; the author and the illustrator represented themselves. The Book Club for Kids, a podcast where middle school readers discuss well-known books, gives children the mic. Host and executive producer Kitty Felde, whos also the founder of independent Chesapeake Press, coordinates with schools, libraries, and book festivals to choose titles and meet participants. With an estimated two million downloads and 160 books since its launch in 2015, the Book Club for Kids connects authors and their audiences. When adults review a book, that helps an adult find a book, but it doesnt make a kid want to read that book, Felde told PW. Ive had kids reach out to me and say, We want to do a podcast with you. They have a particular book they fell in love with, and they cant find places to talk about it. Ten years ago, Felde came to a crossroads in her career as a public radio journalist. Shed long been a reporter in Southern California and Washington, D.C., and when her station closed her Capitol Hill news bureau, she wanted a fresh start. As I tell people, I flunked retirement, Felde said, and she remembered how, during her time on an afternoon talk show in L.A., she used to host book discussions with young readers. Once a month, we would invite kids, grades five to seven, who would pick a middle grade novel and chat about it, Felde said. When I asked myself what I enjoyed the most, it was those sessions talking to kids about books. For Felde, late elementary through middle school readers felt like the ideal podcast companions. I believe that inside all of us, we are a certain age, and Im a fifth grader, I just am, Felde said. Those are my people. By fifth grade, kids have a sense of their place in the world and who they are, and they have very strong opinions and great ideas, if only you will listen. She began contacting colleagues and interviewees from her decades on the radio, from fellow journalists to politicians to voice and screen actors. She planned each episode around a visit with the author, plus a celebrity guest reading from the selected book. Librarians and children recommended titles, and educators and parents identified kids who were eager to talk about books. At the conclusion of every podcast, shed ask kids, authors, and guests to share their favorite title. For the debut episode, three children read Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl, and D.C. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton was the celebrity guest. Later that year, two readers met Newbery Medalist Meg Medina to discuss Medinas Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass, and National Public Radio correspondent Mandalit Del Barco read aloud from the book. In 2020, three girls read Angie Thomass On the Come Up, and Thomas shared a 40-song playlist that she listened to on breaks between writing sessions. Felde starts each Book Club episode by prompting readers to discuss a novels plot and characters, then sees where the conversation goes. We talked about A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, but we ended up talking about #MeToo, she recalled. We read The Crossover, and the kids started talking about their own relationships with their parents. Magic stuff happens when you listen to what they have to say. Episodes and participation are free of charge, and Felde wants to recruit participants for future club meetings. We love to tape Book Club for Kids episodes in schools, libraries, and bookstores in person in Southern California and the D.M.V. [D.C., Maryland, and Virginia], Felde said. She meets families and educators at the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books and the L.A. Maker Faire, and she stays in touch with D.C. public schools and friends in the eastern U.S. It takes a long time to build those relationships with schools and libraries, she said, adding that kids reading levels are so far behind, and teachers and librarians are so overworked, that its been hard to arrange Book Club episodes. In addition to the Book Club for Kids, Felde founded Chesapeake Press to publish fiction and nonfiction about civics, under the ambitious motto Saving American Democracy: One Kid at a Time. She began Chesapeake as a venue for her self-published Fina Mendoza Mysteries, about a 10-year-old whose father is a U.S. congressman. The first two Fina Mendoza books are also available as podcasts; a Spanish-language version of the third, translated by Jorge Flores Gonzalez, pubs in 2026; and the fourth installation, Home of the Brave, pubs in summer 2026 and addresses present-day issues including California wildfires and homelessness. Chesapeake also is open to submissions of K8 nonfiction. Felde aspires to publish a series of biographies, and forthcoming books include a middle grade nonfiction title by Phyllis Haensel, Black and White: The Story of Civil Rights in America (fall 2026), and a picture book by Jennifer Blanck, with illustrations by Mark Wilson, ABCDemocracy (fall 2027). Shes open to making more book-and-podcast combos, too, such as Losing Is Democratic: How to Talk to Kids About January 6, which includes a civics curriculum for third through fifth grade. Losing Is Democratic came about because of my relationship with Book Club during the 2021 Capitol riot, Felde said. I had relationships with teachers who were working on the Hill, and I asked them the next week, What did you do? Youve got kids in those rooms whose parents were in the building. What they told me is what ended up in the book and podcast, putting it in a historical context and talking about the concept of losing itself. For Felde, everything comes back to making space for young readers voices, interests, and education. A decade into her multiple ventures, shes still looking for ways that children can choose Book Club for Kids titles and suggest material for Chesapeake Press to publish. Its not the Big Five; we dont do that, she said. But I try to put the power back in the hands of the kids. DHAKA, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Bangladesh's current account deficit fell steeply to nearly half a billion U.S. dollars during the first 11 months of the 2024-25 fiscal year (July 2024-June 2025), meaning the South Asian economy absorbed less than what it produced in the last year. According to the latest Bangladesh Bank (BB) data, the current account balance showed a deficit of 432 million dollars in the first 11 months of the last fiscal year against the deficit of 6.12 billion dollars in the same period of previous fiscal year (July 2023-June 2024). Officials from the Bangladesh Bank said strong remittances from millions of Bangladeshis living and working abroad helped as always offset the impact of the deficit. Bangladesh has received 2.97 billion dollars in remittances in May, marking the second-highest monthly inflow in the country's history. According to Bangladesh Bank data, in the 11 months of the last fiscal year, total remittance inflows reached 27.51 billion dollars, an increase of 28.7 percent compared to 21.37 billion dollars in the same period of the previous fiscal year. Bangladesh registered a current account deficit of 6.60 billion dollars in the 2023-24 fiscal year. Bookshop.org, the online bookselling platform, reported 65% year-over-year growth for the first six months of 2025. The platform introduced e-book sales in January of this year and, having already sold more than $1 million in e-books, the category now "represents 5% of overall sales," according to Andy Hunter, Bookshop.org's CEO. He said the company is projecting $3 million in total e-book sales by the end of the year. The platform is also looking into producing its own e-reading hardware. Hunter said that Bookshop.org now works with 2,471 bookstores and with approximately 90% of the American Booksellers Association members, with which it works on an affiliate sales model. A central pillar of Bookshop.org's business plan is that it distributes 10% of all non-affiliate profits to independent bookstores twice a year. This July's distribution was $1,887,459 and each eligible bookstore partner will receive $744.27, with additional locations earning $372.13 per storefront. Eligible partners receive equal shares regardless of individual sales performance. The growth comes as the broader book industry faces headwinds. Direct-to-consumer e-commerce companies are down 9% year-over-year in 2025, while U.S. book sales industry-wide have declined 1.6%. Looking abroad, Hunter said e-book sales in the U.K. are currently in private beta with a full launch expected soon. While Bookshop.org maintains a partnership with Libro.fm for audiobooks in the U.S., it plans to launch audiobook sales directly in the U.K. during the first half of next year. Bookshop.org has also partnered with AWIN Affiliate Marketing to expand its reach among influencers and other promotional partners. The platform also recently conducted an "Anti-Prime sale" offering free shipping to counter Amazon's Prime Day event earlier this month. Hunter said that during its Anti-Prime sale, Bookshop.org made $1.5 million in sales. Despite industry conversations about AI automation, Hunter said that AI has had no impact on Bookshop.org's businessand he remains skeptical of the technology. "I am a big fan of human recommendations, and I'm a big fan of human writing," he said. Instagram / Caila Quinn By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 07/29/2025 ADVERTISEMENT FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. alum Caila Quinn has revealed whether another little boy or girl will be joining the family.While on a family trip to Lisbon, Portugal, Caila posted photos with husband Nick Burrello and their two kids posing on a park bench in front of a wall covered in blue-and-white tiles."When in Portugal... the tiles turn blue and so do our baby announcements. It's a BOY!" Caila captioned her post.Caila added how she'll be welcoming parenting advice and recommendations on boy names."At this point, we're accepting tips on 3 row cars, bunk beds, and how to keep socks on little boys," Caila quipped in the caption."And while we're at it... baby boy name ideas too!."Caila announced earlier this month she's pregnant with her third child."Soaking in this sunshine. Can't wait for you to be here soon," Caila wrote alongside a July 3 video of her family enjoying a picnic in the middle of a grassy field.While reaching into her picnic basket and handing out snacks, Caila unveiled a strip of sonogram images from her ultrasound.Caila set her post to Cory Asbury's "You Are My Sunshine."The new baby will join his siblings Teddi Marie, 2, and Christian Anthony, 11 months.Caila gave birth to Teddi in March 2023 and then welcomed Christian in August 2024.The Bachelor in Paradise alum married Nick in May 2021 in Sarasota, FL, and despite a recent cheating scandal that made headlines, the couple continue to put on a united front.Caila previously told Us Weekly that she's "always wanted to be a mom" and was "really excited" to nurture her future children's creativity and interests.Caila and Nick tied the knot in 2021 in Florida after canceling an overseas wedding in Lake Como, Italy due to the coronavirus pandemic.Although Caila initially found the postponement heartbreaking, she and Nick ultimately exchanged vows where Nick had proposed to alum -- during a romantic beach dinner -- in January 2020 after two years of dating.Caila and Nick had been set up by a mutual friend and went public with their relationship in October 2017, which was well over a year after Caila had appeared on Ben Higgins ' season of .On 's 20th season, Ben eliminated Caila right after his round of overnight Fantasy Suite dates in favor of eventual runner-up JoJo Fletcher and winner Lauren Bushnell , from whom he split in May 2017.Caila, who was 24-years-old at the time Ben broke up with her, was blindsided, crushed and sent home before a Rose Ceremony in Jamaica."I thought I'd be getting engaged in a week-and-a-half. I was ready," Caila said in tears following her ouster."I was ready to get married. I was ready to be his wife. I was ready. I was ready for our future. It's all I thought about. My purpose in life is to love other people and I don't know why I haven't found it yet. I thought this was it. I thought this was it. I was ready. I didn't see this coming. I love him, too. Like, I still love him."That same year, Caila appeared on Season 3 of Bachelor in Paradise and left the show still dating Jared Haibon Caila even met Jared's family in Rhode Island, but she revealed during an August 2016 episode of After Paradise that "mystical forces" contributed to their split.Jared's tight friendship with Ashley Iaconetti , who appeared jealous and possessive of her longtime crush, seemed to be the reason behind his split with Caila about six weeks after filming wrapped.Jared and Ashley reconciled in May 2018 after remaining friends for years and tied the knot in August 2019.Although Caila didn't find love on franchise, she told Us in 2021 that she was meant to go on the show in order to find Nick."If I wasn't on the show, I wouldn't ever have met him because I would never have been a blogger and that's who introduced us and set us up on our first date," Caila shared at the time."So, I think everything happens for a reason and I thank God every day."Interested in more news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group FROM THE BATTLEFIELD TO THE BACKWOODS, .308 WIN CAN DO IT ALL Modern hotrod cartridges like .224 Valkyrie, 6.5 Creedmoor, 28 Nosler, 6GT, and .350 Legend have been all but stealing the hunting and long-range shooting show in recent years. However, the time-tested .308 Winchester remains one of the best-sellers on the market. With a long history of use from the battlefield to the back forty, this fan favorite is far from a fading star. Because the .308 Win is such a versatile cartridge, excelling at everything from long-range steel to close-range whitetails, there is a copious amount of ammo to choose from. Since not every load is perfect for every job the .308 can handle, matching your ammo to your application is critical. You can try to drive a nail with a screwdriver, but youll have a hard time getting the job done and probably just end up frustrated. Were here to help you pick the right tool for the job with a list of our favorite .308 loads. Theres something on here perfect for taking down everything from paper targets to bugling bull elk. BEST .308 AMMO FOR HUNTING Although other .30-caliber cartridges (like the .30-30 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield) have probably put more venison on dinner tables, the .308 Win has certainly harvested its fair share of family provisions. Here are a few loads that excel in the deer woods. If your main goal is filling your deer tags, these will help swing the odds in your favor. Remington Core-Lokt Topped with what the company calls the original controlled expansion bullet, Remington Core-Lokt has been a long-time favorite of serious deer hunters. Core-Lokt soft points can drive as deep as two feet in 10 percent ordnance gel and expand up to twice their original diameter. PROS: Available everywhere Good on meat Proven for lifetimes CONS Precision sucks MidwayUSA $1.42 Per Round There are definitely, sleeker, sexier, ballistically superior loads on the market. If you need to milk the .308s long-range capabilities, Core-Lokt shouldnt be your first voice. However, these loads are the bread and butter choice for hunters seeking mid-range whitetails, especially those big bucks cruising thick timber. Core-Lokt loads are super reliable, hit hard, drive deep, and leave massive holes. Hornady Superformance Lots of hunters dream of 300 magnum velocities, but the long-action packaging and brutal recoil make many of them reevaluate their need for speed. Hornady Superformance pushes the velocity envelope by using specially formulated powders with progressive burn rates that hold peak pressure longer. That means they can drive bullets faster and harder. With a sizzling hot muzzle velocity that often exceeds 3000 fps, Hornady Superformance .308 Win loads perform more like magnum loads, but without the extra pressure or brutal recoil. PROS: Flat shooting More speed, more energy Great expanding bullet CONS Temperature sensitive Often has a large extreme spread muzzle velocity MidwayUSA $2.05 Per Round These loads are topped with Hornadys signature SST (Super Shock Tip) projectiles. They are engineered to expand faster and more reliably at higher velocities, which is a necessity with the extra speed these loads generate. SST projectiles also shoot pancake-flat for dead-on accuracy. If you need a bullet to travel across acres of open cropland and still be packing enough energy for an ethical kill when it reaches that bruiser browsing the treeline, youll want these babies in your bolt-action .308. Downside? Superformance isn't known as being the most accurate ammo. It's minute of deer for sure, but MOA or sub MOA can be iffy. Nosler Trophy Grade AccuBond Noslers patented AccuBond bullets make regular appearances in both big-brand factory and hand loads. The company also manufactures its own line of factory hunting ammo that features its signature, high-performance projectiles, and hunters everywhere should be rejoicing. Nosler Trophy Grade AccuBond loads are incredibly aerodynamic and generate impressive terminal ballistics. AccuBond bullets feature a white polymer tip and a boat tail base that provides excellent in-flight performance. PROS: Great precision Proven bullet Almost match grade ammo CONS Not common on shelves MidwayUSA $3.10 Per Round Once the bullet reaches your target, that wide boat tail acts as a base for massive expansion. The bullets components are bonded to preserve weight and drive the bullet deep into vital organs. While we listed these Nosler loads under whitetails, they are incredibly versatile. If you want one load you can use for deer, pronghorn, muleys, and even elk, this is it. BEST .308 AMMO FOR ELK While some big game hunters snicker at the notion of using a .308 to bring down big bulls, the truth is that this cartridge has filled its fair share of elk tags. However, for best results, you may need something with a little more oomph than your standard whitetail loads. If youre going after big-bodied animals, you need loads with enough speed and weight retention to reach deep-set vitals. Federal Premium Berger Hybrid Hunter Federal Premium Berger Hybrid Hunter delivers precision that is about as close as you can get to match-grade accuracy with a factory-made hunting load. These loads are topped with extremely aerodynamic Berger Hunter Hybrid bullets. With a combination of tangent and secant ogive features, Hunter Hybrid projectiles have a higher ballistic coefficient than other projectiles of similar design. PROS: Arguably the best bullet on the market Precision ammo Unbeatable reliability CONS Expensive Harder to find MidwayUSA $1.95 Per Round The design makes these bullets slow to shed speed, so they carry a ton of kinetic energy downrange. The bullet also has a thinner-than-average jacket, which allows the bullet to penetrate 2 to 3 inches in soft tissue before expanding. Upon expansion, the Hunter Hybrid sheds weight rapidly, dumping energy into the target and initiating a massive wound cavity right in the vital area. With a well-placed shot, these loads deliver terminal performance well-suited for big bulls and other big-bodied game animals. Hornady Precision Hunter Hornady Precision Hunter features the companys exclusive ELD-X (Extremely Low Drag eXpanding) bullets. ELD-X projectiles are made with a thick jacket and an InterLock ring. The configuration minimizes core/jacket separation, improves weight retention, and controls terminal expansion. These bullets drive deep and carve massive wound channels. PROS: Great bullet Wide range of caliber options Better penetration CONS Not as precise as match ammo MidwayUSA $2.25 Per Round The 178-grain ELD-X has a pretty impressive BC (.552 G1), which also allows it to fly pretty darned true in most conditions. Precision Hunter delivers incredible long-range performance, which also makes it a smart option for popping pronghorns across open prairie land. BEST .308 AMMO FOR WILD HOGS Feral hogs have thick hides, tough muscles, deep-set vitals, and terrible attitudes. If you want to bring home the bacon, youll be best served with heavyweight, bonded projectiles to make sure your shots plow deep enough for quick, humane kills. Winchester Super X PowerPoint Sometimes hog hunting is a high-volume shooting affair. When there are tons of these nuisance critters hogging a feeder (pun thoroughly intended), you dont want ammo that batters your bank account. Winchester Super X PowerPoint isnt at all trendy or flashy, but it gets the job done. They also come in at an incredibly practical price point. PROS: Sludge hammer ammo, reliable but not fancy Good on meat Bag of rocks simple CONS Precision sucks MidwayUSA $1.42 Per Round While theres nothing fancy about Winchesters bonded soft points, the jackets do feature strategic notching that delivers consistent expansion in soft tissue. Choose the 180-grain Power-Points for deeper wounds on larger hogs. Federal Fusion MSR Hog hunting and modern sporting rifles go together like peanut butter and jelly, but you might not want to feed your rifle any old .308 load. Thats where Federal Fusion MSR .308 loads come in. PROS: Built for semi-autos Low-flash Great bullet CONS Not cheap MidwayUSA $1.95 Per Round Every component of Federal Fusion MSR cartridges is fine-tuned for optimal AR performance. The primers are designed specifically for rifles with free-floating firing pins. Cases are stuffed with clean, low flash, fast-burning powders that boost velocity for better performance from short-barreled platforms. The whole package is topped with a pressure-formed lead projectile with a molecularly fused copper jacket. These puppies are engineered for peak performance through an AR-10. BEST .308 AMMO FOR TARGET SHOOTING If youre pinging steel or punching paper, precision is far more important than terminal performance. If you dont have the time or the patience to handload, there are several top-notch, high-precision factory loads that produce pretty impressive results. Hornady Match The next best thing to handloads, Hornady Match uses carefully selected, high-uniformity components and then loads them to exacting specifications. Factory loads just dont get much better than this. PROS: Common and trusted match ammo Works well on meat The gold standard for factory match ammo CONS More precision, more cost MidwayUSA $2.15 Per Round Choose the heavier 178-grain boat tail hollow points if you want to stretch your long-range legs. These projectiles have an impressive ballistic coefficient of .530, so they cut through the air like a hot knife through butter. Federal Premium Gold Medal Sierra MatchKing Sierras famous MatchKing bullets have won more matches than any other projectile in history. Federal Premium Gold Medal Sierra MatchKing pairs these prize-winning projectiles with benchrest quality Gold Medal primers and specially formulated propellants to provide tack-driving consistency. PROS: Sierra Matchking is a GOAT Low ES and SD CONS Not good on meat MidwayUSA $1.85 Per Round These loads perform so consistently that its easy to forget they came from a factory. BEST .308 WIN AMMO FOR PRACTICE AND PLINKING Whether youre impressing your friends by plinking soda cans off fence posts or running tactical drills, burning through ammo may be fun, but its also pretty darned expensive. However, running cheap ammo can quickly turn a fun day at the range into an exercise in frustration. Here are a few practically priced options that dont disappoint. Winchester USA White Box Super popular, super reliable, and super cheap, Winchesters famous white box ammo is perfect for high-volume shooting. It is made with simple full metal jacket (FMJ) projectiles and clean-burning propellants. PROS: Available everywhere Generally inexpensive CONS Lacks precision You will train malfunction drills (Is that a pro?) MidwayUSA $1.15 Per Round They are engineered to reduce barrel fouling, which means you can send more lead downrange without gunking up your rifle. Sellier & Bellot Tactical Ammunition If youre leery about trying foreign-made ammo with a funny name, theres no reason to be scared. Hailing from the Czech Republic, Sellier & Bellot is one of Europes oldest ammunition manufacturers. These guys have been producing high-quality ammo since 1825. PROS: Good price Goes bang Better precision than you would expect CONS Avaiblity is hit and miss MidwayUSA $1.05 Per Round This Sellier & Bellot Tactical Ammunition isnt technically .308 Win. However, this 7.6251 is just as fit for your .308 hunting rifle as it is for NATO-spec rifles. These loads feature super heavy-for-caliber 200-grain bullets, which leave the muzzle at subsonic speeds, making them a great option for suppressed AR-10s. Note: Rifles with 7.6251 NATO chambers are engineered to handle lower pressure rounds with thick case walls and a slightly longer headspace. When you insert a .308 round into a 7.62 chamber, the extra pressure, thinner case walls, and extra empty space surrounding the cartridge can cause the brass to expand beyond its elastic range. This increases the probability of a ruptured case, which can damage both the firearm and the person shooting it. In short, it is generally safe to shoot 7.62 NATO cartridges in .308 Winchester chambers, but not the other way around. LOOSE ROUNDS The .308 Winchester is a spectacularly versatile cartridge. With the vast array of specialized loads on the market today, the cartridge becomes even more versatile. Whether you want to ping steel at extreme ranges or harvest whitetails on the next ridge over, the right .308 Win ammo will help you get the job done. READY FOR MORE? Analysts believe Tesla will first focus on building the Model Y brand before expanding -- both in terms of volume and models. IMAGE: The keenly-awaited Model Y. All photographs: Rajesh Karkera/Rediff Tesla, the poster boy of full self-driving cars, has finally cruised into India. Globally, whenever Tesla enters a market, it increases the penetration of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). In India, however, that might not be the case. Given its price -- 60 lakh for the Model Y rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 68 lakh for the Model Y long range -- Tesla sits firmly in the luxury EV segment in India and is, therefore, unlikely to impact existing mass-market EV players. Analysts believe Tesla will first focus on building the Model Y brand before expanding -- both in terms of volume and models. The Model Y costs more than six times the average selling price of cars in India, and even over the next five years, it is expected to cost 2.4 times more, said Jay Kale, analyst with investment bank Elara Capital. In the EU, the US, and China, this ratio is around 1.01.5 times, and with that, Tesla's BEV market share is in the range of 1015 per cent in the EU and China, and 44 per cent in the US. This translates into an overall PV (personal vehicle) market share of less than 5 per cent in these regions, Kale said in a note on Wednesday. Assuming BEVs comprise 1015 per cent of the Indian PV market by 202930 (FY30), Tesla is likely to account for 1.52 per cent, Elara said. And if BEV penetration hits 30 per cent (bull scenario), Tesla may garner a 34.5 per cent share of the PV market, it added. Hence, we do not see its entry into India as a major threat to domestic OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), but it could be instrumental in raising awareness about EVs, Kale said. That said, Kale added they believed Tesla's superior and pioneering software experience would become a benchmark for the EV industry in India, and that domestic OEMs would have to up their game. Wealth manager Bernstein echoed the sentiment. Tesla, it said, would focus on building the brand rather than mainstream volumes. This meant there would be limited immediate impact on local automakers such as Mahindra & Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki India, and Tata Motors. The situation could change in the medium term as Tesla is working on a sub-$25K affordable EV, Bernstein added. While maintaining that Tesla's premium entry price did not pose a volume risk for M&M and Tata Motors, a research report by financial services firm Macquarie said the Austin (Texas)-headquartered firm's pricing strategy, ramp-up of its distribution network, and India's auto policy would be key variables to track. Tesla's products vary significantly, and target customer segments do not overlap, analysts at Citi said. At the current price point, they don't believe potential Mahindra XUV 9e customers are likely to shift to Tesla. The products vary significantly and target customer segments also do not overlap, Citi said. However, if duties are reduced or if local manufacturing starts, competition could escalate for the Indian OEMs, it added. In the future, even if an IndiaUS or IndiaEU free trade agreement is signed, and Tesla imports the Model Y from the US, it will still cost more than its current market price of $44,900 (ex-federal credits), which translates into 39 lakh. This is still 24 per cent higher than M&M's 9e (Pack 3, 79 kWh) and 31 per cent more than the Tata Harrier EV (Empowered QWD 75 ACFC). Not quite a smooth ride Tesla's India outing will have its challenges. Auto industry veterans feel the electric auto major is likely to face stiff competition here unless it rolls out its driverless cars. I personally drive a Tesla occasionally. Without the driverless option, it is not an exciting product in Indian conditions, said an automobile industry veteran. Moreover, we already have established products in the segment. India's premium market segment stands at 51,000 units per annum -- barely 1 per cent of total vehicle sales. It's a small pie, for a share of which global majors like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and Jaguar Land Rover have already built strong ecosystems, including service networks and local assembly lines. Within the PV industry, EVs account for a mere 4.5 per cent (as of June 2025). For the luxury PV segment, they form around 10 per cent, with BMW dominating with a 53 per cent market share, followed by Mercedes (33 per cent). Adding to Tesla's challenges, its global competitors -- such as Chinese EV manufacturer BYD and Vietnamese player VinFast -- are expanding into India, with better service strategies. VinFast plans to be present in more than 30 cities through its dealership network and has also roped in service partners. BYD is also scouting for local partners in India. The shift to EV Tesla has taken its own sweet time coming into India -- more than a decade, in fact, since discussions began. Tesla had zeroed in on India as one of its probable manufacturing destinations in Asia in 2014. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Tesla Motors' plant in San Jose in September 2015 fuelled speculation about the company entering India. Then in July 2016, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also visited the Tesla unit and offered land near major Indian ports to facilitate exports to South and Southeast Asian countries, while asking the company to make India its Asia manufacturing hub. However, even after several rounds of negotiations around reducing duties and offering incentives, there has been no commitment from Tesla to start local manufacturing. Many see Tesla's India entry as an attempt to address the capacity glut at its global plants, from where excess inventory might be brought to India. Tesla currently has a manufacturing capacity of 2.53 million units across the US, Germany, and China. The India entry is thus seen as more symbolic than substantial -- a branding effort, insiders feel. It is too early to say whether India will become a core market in South Asia for Tesla. In China, its entry led to a transformation of the EV market. Earlier, EVs were largely seen as a commercial choice rather than an aspirational one. The real shift happened when Tesla opened its Gigafactory at Shanghai; since then, EV penetration took off in China, Elara said. It was Tesla that was the first EV OEM globally to generate buzz about EVs, positioning them as aspirational products, which started attracting customers, it added. China's EV penetration was 3.8 per cent in 2019. Tesla entered the market in December that year and began selling cars in 2020. China's EV penetration has been rising steadily since; it shot up to 24.6 per cent in 2024. Kale believes that the aspirational aspect needs to be highlighted for consumers to shift to EVs -- something Tesla is well-positioned to offer. So, this shift could happen in India too. Unlike traditional auto giants such as Volkswagen and Honda, Tesla has chosen not to invest heavily in conventional advertising channels like television. Instead, it has relied on the power of celebrity influence and word-of-mouth, which have helped shape its image as a premium, niche brand. Its early adopters included actor Brad Pitt, Google cofounders Larry Page and Sergey Brin, eBay's first president Jeff Skoll, and Xiaomi Chief Executive Officer Lei Jun. Will it adopt a similar strategy in India? Will it shape the country's EV landscape? The answers will unfold as Tesla travels some distance in India. Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff LISBON, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Portugal has raised concerns over the recently concluded tariff agreement between the European Union (EU) and the United States, describing it as a limited improvement that falls short of true free trade and comes at a steep cost for both sides. The Ministry of Economy and Territorial Cohesion acknowledged in a statement that the deal -- fixing U.S. tariffs on European goods at 15 percent -- may bring a certain degree of predictability. However, it stressed that "nothing replaces the freedom of trade" and reaffirmed Portugal's commitment to actively push for the gradual elimination of tariffs and other trade barriers. The Confederation of Portuguese Business (CIP) expressed only "relative relief" at the deal, emphasizing that the price to pay is "high for both parties." "When a hurricane is expected, one feels happy with a mere storm," said CIP Director-General Rafael Alves Rocha. Still, he warned that the agreed tariff levels mark a significant increase from the current average of around 2.5 percent, representing a setback for exporters and highlighting the asymmetry in the EU's and U.S.' tariff structures. According to CIP, the outcome is unbalanced and disadvantages European producers compared to the average customs duties imposed by the EU on American imports. The Portuguese government has responded to potential negative consequences with financial support measures for domestic businesses. It pointed to the "Reforcar" program launched in April, aimed at cushioning companies from adverse trade impacts. So far, 14,000 applications have been submitted under the BPF INVEST EU credit line, totaling 3.2 billion euros (3.71 billion U.S. dollars), with 2.5 billion euros approved and 1.6 billion euros already disbursed. Additionally, a specific credit line -- BPF INVEST EXPORT PT -- was created to support export-oriented SMEs. It has received 2,600 applications worth 1.3 billion euros, of which 600 million euros have been approved. As part of the new PT2030 incentives framework, a non-refundable grant line has also been launched to promote internationalization, targeting joint projects and collaborative strategies in external markets. The ministry announced that the first public calls for collective internationalization initiatives will open on July 31. Despite these support measures, Lisbon's cautious tone and the business community's criticism reflect broader doubts within Portugal about the long-term benefits of the EU-U.S. trade arrangement -- raising questions about whether short-term stability has come at the expense of long-term economic balance. (1 euro = 1.16 U.S. dollar) India is seeking either an exemption or a longer timeline on the pharmaceutical tariffs, expected to kick in by July 31. Photograph: Shailesh Andrade/Reuters The US is pressing India to commit to not reintroducing the so-called 'Google tax', while New Delhi is seeking protection from potential future tariffs on pharmaceutical exports as part of the ongoing trade-deal negotiations. Starting April 1, India abolished the 6 per cent equalisation levy on online advertising services provided by non-resident entities, also known as Google tax. The move, announced in March, was aimed at sending a positive signal to US President Donald Trump, who had threatened reciprocal tariffs on high-tariff nations. Apart from Google, the decision also benefited other US-based tech majors, such as Meta and X (formerly Twitter). "While we have already abolished the equalisation levy, to include a provision not to reintroduce it in a trade deal may set a wrong precedent," said a government official who did not wish to be named. India usually does not make sovereign commitments on tax issues under trade agreements. For its part, India is seeking either an exemption or a longer timeline on the pharmaceutical tariffs, expected to kick in by July 31. "This will bring more certainty to the Indian pharma companies," the official said. Trump has threatened tariffs of up to 200 per cent on pharmaceuticals to push drug manufacturers to bring production back to the US. 'Probably at the end of the month, we're going to start off with a low tariff and give the pharmaceutical firms a year or so to build, and then we're going to make it a very high tariff,' Trump recently told reporters. India is also seeking at least a "quota-based relief" from the 25 per cent tariffs on steel, aluminium, and automobiles under the proposed deal. "Since these tariffs were imposed under Section 232, citing national security, and are unlikely to be challenged in US courts, we are looking for some sort of resolution within the trade agreement," the official noted. New Delhi has termed the Section 232 tariffs by the US as safeguard duties and informed the World Trade Organization that it reserves the right to retaliate. The US, however, has rejected India's claim, holding that India has no legal basis to retaliate, as such tariffs were imposed on national security grounds. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff ... with a maximum speed of 200 megabits per second (mbps) across the country for Rs 3,000 per month. Kindly note the image has been posted only for representational purposes. IMAGE: The Starlink logo is seen in front of the Indian flag. Photograph: Dado Ruvic/Illustration/Reuters Elon Musk's satellite communication service Starlink will be able to provide connections to only 2 million users in India, with a maximum speed of 200 megabits per second (mbps) across the country for Rs 3,000 per month, said Union Minister of State for Telecommunications Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar. It is due to this high upfront cost that the services of Bharat Sanchar Nigam (BSNL), especially in rural areas, will not be impacted, Pemmasani said. "So, there is no way satellites can provide any meaningful connectivity in India," he said. Pemmasani was speaking on the sidelines of a day-long review meeting of BSNL on Monday. The minister of state's comments come against the backdrop of private telecom service providers flagging Starlink's entry into India on the grounds that the company's satellite service directly competed with the terrestrial services being offered by the carriers. State-run BSNL competes with private telecom operators in the Indian market. Over the last year, the government has installed 100,000 4G towers for BSNL. Both the software and hardware have been developed indigenously in the country, Pemmasani said, adding that BSNL is resolving issues with 4G connections across the country on an ongoing basis. "The integration, developing everything within two-three years, was hard. There were some issues, and we have cleaned up a lot of that. Ninety per cent of the problems have been solved. Our goal is to get everybody on the same page," Pemmasani said. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is also working to resolve legacy issues, such as the lack of adequate power backup for BSNL's towers and base stations, as well as disconnected fixed-line fibre, the minister said. Once these issues are resolved, Pemmasani added, the next step will be to market and sell BSNL's products and offerings, ensuring the telco achieves true profitability. The government and DoT are also working to improve the average revenue per user (Arpu) of the State-run telco and bring it on par with that of private players, the minister said. "It is different based on the (telecom) circle. If you have a lot of rural communities and low affordability, the revenue per user is a little bit different from some of the metro circles," he said. In some rural circles, BSNL has an average weighted Arpu of up to Rs 70 per user, whereas in select urban circles, it reaches as high as Rs 170, a DoT official later stated. Despite the government's capital expenditure on BSNL, the State-run telco is unlikely to implement a tariff hike in the near future to improve its ARPU margin, Pemmasani said. "We want people to experience the BSNL service again. People will have a choice now." Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff 'The Railways is today running train services with 30% less number of loco pilots.' Kindly note the image has been posted only for representational purposes. Photograph: Navesh Chitrakar/Reuters The All India Loco Running Staff Association (AILRSA) has threatened to go on a nationwide strike if their demands regarding rest hours were not met by the Indian Railways. In an unprecedented move, the loco pilots union decided to write to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, requesting him to refer their dispute with the rail administration over their rest hours, to the Lower House's Petition Committee. In this interview to Rediff, K C James, Secretary General, AILRSA, who signed the letter, explains why the Union decided to write to the Lok Sabha Speaker and why they plan to go on a national strike if their demands were not met. "From the 1st of June 2024 we came to a decision that we would join duty only after taking rest for 46 hours (30+16hours). At the same time, we gave an assurance to the Railways that we would see to it that our stand would not affect the train services. For the stand we have taken, the Railways have retaliated harshly even though we did not delay a single train," K C James tells Rediff's Shobha Warrier. Why did the loco pilots union decided to submit a petition to the Lok Sabha Speaker so that it would be referred to the Lower House's petition committee? We, the loco pilots, drive a train from the headquarters to an outstation location. Once there is a break in duty, we take rest at the outstation which can be of 4 to 8 hours duration. After that, our duty need not be back to the headquarters; it can be to another outstation. We come back to the headquarters after 2 or 3 tours. Then at the headquarters, we can avail 16 hours of rest. This is our daily routine. Like other working people, we do not have Sundays as holidays as we might be driving the train even on Sundays. That's why the rule says, we can have 4 periodical rests of 30 hours in a month. But what is happening is the Railways has been cutting our headquarters rest of 16 hours after a trip. When they give us the weekly periodical rest, they cut our daily rest. They have been doing this for some time. In effect, we get a weekly rest of 16 hours. Compare this to what the office staff gets. They leave by 5 pm Saturday evening and they come back on Monday after a day's rest on Sunday. The 1979 ILO recommendation says that when workers are given weekly rest, they should also get daily rest also as suffix or prefix. Our duty hours and rest period of the loco running staff are governed by the Indian Railway Servants (Hours of Work and Rest Period) Rules, 2005, and the Indian Railway Act, 1989. The Regional Labour Commission centre is the appellate authority on Railway labour rules. We had represented the issue there in 2000. In 2001, the labour commissioner ruled that Railways should not cut the rests that loco pilots are entitled to, and that both the weekly and daily rests should be treated differently. Kindly note the image has been posted only for representational purposes. Photograph: Parth Sanyal/Reuters What reason did the Railways say in denying the loco pilots their head-quarters rests? What the Railways said was, they did not have enough people to run the trains! When the Railways cited this as the reason for denying us our daily rests, the labour commissioner said, if the workers were ready to forgo their daily headquarters rest, the Railways could give compensation to them and book them for duty. The labour commissioner also remarked that the Railways had no right to deny us our weekly rests. Remember the labour commissioner gave this order in 2001! The Railways appealed against the order to the labour ministry, and in 2003 the joint secretary in the Railway ministry cancelled the order. When we took it up with the Central Administrative Tribunal in Bangalore in 2010, the Tribunal ordered to uphold the order of the Regional Labour Commissioner and cancelled the order of the joint secretary. That is, in favour of loco pilots... Yes, in favour of the loco pilots. What the Railways did was, in 2012 it went to the high court against the order by the Central Administrative Tribunal. But the high court dismissed the petition saying the court did not intend to interfere in a matter concerning the Railways. In 2018, the Railways approached the Central Administrative Tribunal in Bangalore asking it to cancel the order of the regional labour commissioner to give compensation to loco pilots. That also was rejected saying that if the rests overlapped, Indian Railways was bound to give compensation to the loco pilots. But the Railways has not implemented what the Regional Labour Commissioner has asked it to do, till today. This is where things stand. From the 1st of June 2024 we came to a decision that we would join duty only after taking rest for 46 hours (30+16hours). At the same time, we gave an assurance to the Railways that we would see to it that our stand would not affect the train services. For the stand we have taken, the Railways have retaliated harshly even though we did not delay a single train. They suspended around 20 employees, gave major penalty charge sheet to 37 people, transferred 27 employees from the headquarters to various stations, and issued minor penalty charge sheet to more than 400 loco pilots. It was when the Railways took action against us in this way that we decided to submit a petition to the Lok Sabha Speaker. We had no other option as we have been not just denied what we deserve under the law but the organisation took action against us. You feel the stance taken by the Railways has been anti-labour? The Railways have been breaking laws all the time, that too even after the high court and the labour commissioner ordered them to adhere to certain rules. What the labour commissioner says becomes the law. So, the Railways has been hell bent on breaking the law and taking a stand not to implement the rules under the law. When we try to avail what is due to us, they resort to oppressing us. What decision can the petition committee of the Lower House take in this matter? Can the committee direct the Railways to implement what the labour commissioner and the high court had ordered? The parliamentary committee can make a recommendation to the government which can put pressure on the ministry of railways. Is it just putting pressure on the Railways, or when they recommend, is the Railway bound to follow what they tell them to do? The role of the parliamentary committee is only recommendatory, it is not mandatory to follow. The parliamentary committee can only make a recommendation. Even though the committee's role is only recommendatory, when a parliamentary committee asks a ministry to follow certain rules, it will put pressure on the ministry. At least whats what we are hoping for. IMAGE: K C James. Photograph: Kind courtesy K C James IMAGE: K C James. When loco pilots are in charge of a train which carries hundreds of people or goods, they have to be alert and well-rested. Still, why is it that the Railways is reluctant to let you have enough rest hours? What is the excuse? It is part of the drive by the Railways to reduce the number of employees. The Railways is today running the train services with 30% less number of loco pilots. The Railways has been filling in only 15% to 20% of the vacancies. The main reason why we are denied what is due for us is only because they are not recruiting people. In January 2024, the Railway Recruitment Board has notified 17,966 vacancies in the Indian Railways. In 2025, the number of vacancies notified is another 9,500. So, there are totally more than 25,000 vacancies in the Indian Railways now. By the time the 2024 recruitment gets over, 2026 will be over. That means, another 9,000 plus vacancies will arise in 2026. Is it because of people retiring? Not just retirement. There is a huge increase in the number of new trains. And you need at least one driver for one train! In such a situation, what kind of pressure loco pilots go through these days? The loco pilots are under extreme work pressure. Our application for leave doesn't get sanctioned. We suffer from many health issues like hypertension, diabetes, etc due to lack of rest and work pressure. Most of the express trains run at night and when we don't get enough rest, it results in micro sleep while on duty. A study conducted in 2015 found that 5 years of night duty results in hypertension among loco pilots. When a loco pilot suffers from health issues, it affects his reflexes. Reflexes become slightly slow resulting in overshooting the signals. When such an overshooting happens, we are given very harsh punishment. And the punishment as per the rule is dismissal of the loco pilot from service. The Railways recently said that it had provided many amenities to loco pilots like urinals in over in over 900 locos, air-conditioning system in over 7,000 locos... There are over 16,000 locos running across the country! They are talking about urinal facilities but they are water-less. You have to also understand that there are around 3,000 women loco pilots working for the Indian Railways. If the Railways did not meet your demands on rest hours, you said the loco pilots would go on a national strike... We are waiting for what the parliamentary committee would say. If there is no other option, we have to go on a nationwide strike. Although we are hopeful, we are also getting prepared for an all India strike. Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff India has successfully test-fired the newly-developed tactical missile Pralay, which is capable of carrying conventional warheads. The missile was test-fired from the APJ Abdul Kalam island off the coast of Odisha on Monday and Tuesday, the defence ministry said. IMAGE: Pralay has a range of 150 to 500 km. Photograph: @DRDO_India/X Pralay is a short-range surface-to-surface missile with a payload capacity of 500-1,000 kg. The missile, capable of carrying conventional warheads, has a range of 150 to 500 km. It has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The missile, equipped with modern technologies, will give further technological boost to the armed forces against threats, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said lauding the DRDO, the armed forces and the concerned industry partners involved in the project for the successful flight-tests. The flight tests were carried out as a part of user evaluation trials to validate the maximum and minimum range capability of the missile system, the defence ministry said. The missiles precisely followed the intended trajectory and reached the target point with pin-point accuracy meeting all the test objectives, it said. "All subsystems performed as per expectations, which were verified using test data captured by various tracking sensors deployed by the integrated test range, including instruments deployed on ship positioned near the designated impact point," it added in a statement. "Pralay is an indigenously-developed solid propellant quasi-ballistic missile employing state-of-the-art guidance and navigation to ensure high precision," the ministry said. Its system has been developed by Research Centre Imarat in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories- such as Advanced Systems Laboratory, Armament Research and Development Establishment, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory, Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Research and Development Establishment (Engineers). The industry partners in the project included the Bharat Dynamics Limited and the Bharat Electronics Limited and many other MSMEs. If a person is merely acting as a lawyer, then he should not be summoned by probe agencies for rendering legal opinion to a client who is under investigation, the Supreme Court said on Tuesday. IMAGE: The Supreme Court of India. Photograph: ANI Photo If any lawyer "is assisting the client in the crime", then he can be summoned, it said. The observations were made by a bench comprising Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran while hearing a suo motu case about summoning of advocates by probe agencies for offering legal advice or representing clients during investigations. We have said in the beginning itself that if somebody (lawyer) is assisting the client in the crime, then he can be summoned, but not merely for giving legal advice, the bench said. The bench heard submissions on the issue from bar bodies -- the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Advocates-on Record Association (SCAoRA), represented by senior advocate Vikas Singh and lawyer Vipin Nair. At the outset, Singh, also the SCBA president, voiced concern over the "chilling effect" that "arbitrary summoning" could have on the legal profession. If lawyers can be routinely summoned for advising clients, no one will dare provide counsel in sensitive criminal cases, he said, adding that safeguards similar to those followed by the CBI should be implemented. He proposed that permission for summoning a lawyer should come from the superintendent of police of a district and then be scrutinised by a judicial magistrate before issuance. The bench indicated that judicial oversight could serve as a crucial check on investigative overreach. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Enforcement Directorate, agreed with the core premise that lawyers should not be summoned merely for offering legal advice. He emphasised that the privilege of communication between a lawyer and a client must be respected. The profession itself is protected under the proviso, he said, but cautioned against introducing measures that could result in inequality. A magistrate's permission only for summoning lawyers, not non-lawyers, may violate Article 14, the law officer said. Referring to earlier incidents when senior advocates Arvind Datar and Pratap Venugopal were summoned, the law officer said that any misuse of authority was promptly addressed. Within six hours of the complaint, the action was withdrawn, he said. The law officer said that before any summons is issued, the ED director can personally review the matter to avoid misuse. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi added another dimension by highlighting the status of in-house counsel, a category often caught in the crosshairs without sufficient protection. Senior advocate Sidharth Luthra raised the issue of fees paid for legal opinions and said that lawyers may not be aware whether their fees were paid from the alleged proceeds of the crime. Another senior lawyer, Shoeb Alam, referred to the freezing of accounts of a reputed law firm, saying that fees received for legal services should be presumed bona fide. The counsel appearing for the SCAoRA stressed the principle of 'class privilege' and invoked the legal doctrine of client-lawyer confidentiality. If we are required to explain our advice, it amounts to self-incrimination, a counsel argued. The solicitor general said a reputed law firm should not be casually named. Referring to a specific case, the solicitor general said, a fugitive claimed that all his documents were with a particular firm. We were told to go collect them. Lawyers must be protected, but assistance should be governed strictly by well-established legal provisions. The bench directed that written suggestions submitted by SCBA and SCAoRA be forwarded to the Solicitor General and the Attorney General within three days. The matter has now been posted for further hearing on August 12, when the Centre will respond. Earlier, the top court had said that ED was "crossing all limits" and expressed serious concern over the agency summoning advocates for offering legal advice or representing clients during investigations. It also called for guidelines on the matter. The communication between a lawyer and the clients is privileged communication and how can the notices be issued against them, they are crossing all limits, the CJI had said. Guidelines should be framed, he said while responding to submissions that recent ED notices to legal professionals like senior advocate Datar could have a chilling effect on the practice of law. On June 20, the ED said it had directed its investigating officers not to issue summons to any advocate in money laundering investigations being carried out against their clients. An exception to this rule can only be made after "approval" by the agency's director, it added. The ED, tasked with combating money laundering crimes, issued a circular for guidance of its field formations, stating that "no summons" should be issued to any advocate in violation of Section 132 of the Bhartiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023. The issuing of summons to these advocates was condemned by the SCBA and the SCAoRA, which called the move a "disturbing trend" that struck at the very foundations of the legal profession. The bar bodies had urged the CJI to take suo motu cognisance of the matter. Asserting that Israel's military campaign in Gaza amounts to "genocide", Congress parliamentary party chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday slammed the Modi government for being a "mute spectator to this affront to humanity", and said this was a "cowardly betrayal of our constitutional values". IMAGE: Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson and MP Sonia Gandhi arrives at Parliament in New Delhi. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo She also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "shameful silence" in the face of Israel's relentless and devastating assault on the people of Gaza is "deeply disappointing", as well as the height of "moral cowardice". In an article published in the Hindi daily Dainik Jagran, Gandhi urged the prime minister to speak out "clearly, boldly and forthrightly" on behalf of the legacy that India has long represented. She said nothing can justify Hamas' barbaric attacks on innocent men, women and children in Israel on 7 October 2023, or its continued holding of Israeli hostages thereafter. She said these must be condemned repeatedly and unreservedly. "But as members of the international community - and more so as human beings -? it is our responsibility to acknowledge that the Israeli government's response and reprisals against the civilian population of Gaza have not only been egregious, but downright criminal," she asserted in her article in Hindi titled 'Gaza sankat par mookdarshak Modi sarkaar'. Over the past nearly two years, more than 55,000 Palestinian civilians have been killed, including 17,000 children, Gandhi pointed out. Most residential buildings in Gaza have been razed to the ground through relentless aerial bombardment, including hospitals, she said, adding that the social fabric has been completely shattered. "The events since October 2023 have been disturbing, and in recent months the situation has become even more heart-wrenching. We have seen how humanitarian aid has been weaponised as part of a dastardly strategy. The Israeli Defense Forces have imposed a military blockade on Gaza, deliberately and cruelly blocking the supply of medicines, food and fuel to the population," the former Congress chief said. "The wanton destruction of infrastructure and the unbridled massacre of civilians have led to a man-made tragedy - made worse by the blockade. This strategy of forced starvation is undoubtedly a crime against humanity," Gandhi said. In the midst of this devastation, Israel has either outright rejected or blocked humanitarian aid from the United Nations and other international organisations, she asserted. "In a perversion of every idea of humanity, armed soldiers of the Israeli Defense Forces have ruthlessly fired on hundreds of civilians who were trying to gather food for their families. The United Nations itself has expressed grave concern on this issue - and even the Israeli Defense Forces have had to admit this horrifying truth," Gandhi said. "According to almost all objective assessments by experts on Israel's ongoing military occupation of Gaza, it is a campaign that amounts to genocide and aims to ethnically cleanse the Gaza Strip of Palestinians," she said. Its scale and consequences are reminiscent of the Naqba tragedy of 1948, when Palestinians were forced from their homes, Gandhi said. All this atrocities are being carried out to serve some of the most nefarious objectives -? ranging from a colonial mindset to the selfish interests of a few "greedy" real estate tycoons, Gandhi claimed. She asserted that the ongoing crisis has exposed one of the most serious weaknesses in the international system. "UN General Assembly resolutions demanding an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza have been completely ignored. The United Nations Security Council has failed to impose sanctions on the Israeli government for its attacks on civilians in Gaza and the large-scale destruction of its infrastructure," she said. The International Court of Justice's order of 26 January 2024 -- directing Israel to prevent acts of genocide and to provide essential services and humanitarian aid to civilians -- has also been completely ignored, Gandhi said. Israel's direct and indirect support from the US not only encouraged these actions, but also made them possible, she added. Gandhi opined that when international laws and institutions have become "virtually defunct", the fight to protect the interests of the people of Gaza is now left to individual countries. Despite the risk of backlash, South Africa has taken the bold step of taking Israel to task at the International Court of Justice, and Brazil has now joined the effort, she noted. France has decided to recognise the Palestinian state, and countries like Britain and Canada have imposed sanctions on Israeli leaders who have promoted aggression in Gaza, she said. Even within Israel itself, the voices of protest are growing -? a former prime minister has acknowledged the reality of Israeli war crimes in Gaza, she said. "Amidst this humanitarian crisis and the rising global consciousness around it, it is a national shame that India has remained a mute spectator to this affront to humanity," Gandhi said. "India has long been a symbol of global justice. We are the country that inspired global movements against colonialism, raised its voice against imperialist domination during the Cold War era, and led the international struggle against apartheid South Africa," she said. "At a time when innocent human beings are being brutally slaughtered, India's abdication of its values is a blot on our national conscience, a disregard for our historical contributions, and also a cowardly betrayal of our constitutional values," Gandhi said. She pointed out that the Directive Principles of State Policy clearly require the government to take effective steps to "promote international peace and security, maintain just and honourable relations between nations, foster respect for international law and treaty obligations, and encourage settlement of international disputes by arbitration. "But Israel's blatant disregard for basic concepts of international law, human rights and justice --? and our current government's moral cowardice in the face of it --? is tantamount to a dereliction of our duties to our constitutional values," she said. India has always been a supporter of the 'two-state solution' and a just peace between the people of Israel and Palestine, she asserted. Gandhi recalled that in 1974, under the leadership of Indira Gandhi, India became the first non-Arab country to recognise the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) as the sole and legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. In 1988, India was among the first countries to officially recognise the State of Palestine, she noted. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi's shameful silence in the face of Israel's relentless and devastating assault on the people of Gaza is deeply disappointing. It is the height of moral cowardice. The time has come for him to speak out clearly, boldly and forthrightly on behalf of the legacy that India has long represented," she said. The Global South is once again looking to India for leadership on an issue that today shakes the collective conscience of all humanity, Gandhi said. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said if Pakistan cannot take action against terrorism on its soil, India is ready to help it as Indian forces are capable of fighting terror on the other side of the border as well. IMAGE: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrives to attend the Monsoon Session of the Parliament, in New Delhi, July 29, 2025. Photograph: Shrikant Singh/ANI Photo Initiating a special discussion on Operation Sindoor in Rajya Sabha, Singh said three terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack have been eliminated by Indian forces. He further said that Operation Sindoor -? India's response to the Pahalgam attack - has been halted, and can be resumed anytime if Pakistan indulges in terror activities in India again. "India wants terrorism to end in the whole world, including Pakistan... I had advised Pakistan earlier as well, and today I want to say again, that if you are unable to take effective action against terrorism, take India's help. India's forces are capable of taking effective action against terrorism this side of the border, as well as on the other side. Pakistan has already witnessed this during Operation Sindoor," he said. "If Pakistan commits any terror incidents in future, we will relaunch Operation Sindoor without hesitation," he said. Singh stressed that our vision is that Operation Sindoor should carry on continuously. "There can be a comma but no full stop." While expressing surprise over questions raised by some opposition leaders over getting back Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, he said, "I am surprised at this demand, because when they were in power they did just the opposite." "It has always been the stand of the Bharatiya Janata Party that the day is not far when the people of Pak-occupied Kashmir will have the privilege of becoming a part of the Indian governance system," he said. Targeting the opposition, Singh said, "Some people think that since Pakistan has nuclear weapons, we should only negotiate with them. Because of this nuclear bluff, we have lost countless civilians. Our vision is that we will give a befitting reply." The defence minister stressed that no religious, ideological, or political reason can justify terrorism. He also congratulated the security forces for killing three terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam attack in which 26 people were killed. He said Home Minister Amit Shah has provided in Lok Sabha details of the joint operation by the forces. Singh said post-Pahalgam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with the service chiefs, and gave them free hand to use their wisdom, strategic understanding and regional security situation to decide on the response. He said the military leadership also showed maturity, and added that Operation Sindoor was aimed at giving a clear message that India will take strong action and go to any extent against terror. "Our action was in self-defence, it was not expansionist...," Singh said. He said Operation Sindoor displays India's new policy against terrorism, and ends the perception that India is a "soft state". "Op Sindoor was not just a military operation, it was a display of our policy against terror. On April 22, the cowardly Pahalgam attack happened. They asked people their religion before killing them. This was an incident which showed that cross border terror was trying to disintegrate India," Singh said. "The aim was to destroy terror infrastructure and the message of zero tolerance for terror. The politico-military objective was to punish Pakistan for the proxy war it is fighting in the form of terrorism," he said. "We are redefining our identity, Operation Sindoor is an example. Terrorists had thought India was a soft state... Operation Sindoor is a game changer. We have ensured terrorism becomes a misadventure for Pakistan," he said. Singh said for the future, the importance of the operation is that "the Indian citizen is no more a vulnerable citizen of a soft state, they are proud citizens of a strong India". Slamming the Opposition, he said if it felt the government did not take proper action, it should come up with an alternative policy. "When the sindoor of our mothers and sisters was wiped away, should we engage in diplomatic talks with Pakistan? Should we hand over dossiers to Pakistan? Should we go to international organizations and just talk? When our opposition colleagues were in power, whenever there were terrorist attacks, they used to take such steps," he said. Singh said Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations urged India to stop the hostilities, and India accepted it on the condition that the operation would be suspended, not terminated. "If Pakistan commits any terror incidents in future, we will relaunch Operation Sindoor without hesitation," he asserted. He said the forces achieved the goals set under the operation. Singh appealed to the international community to stop fundings for Pakistan, stating that a major portion goes into funding terror activities. "It is essential to expose countries that fund and provide shelter to terrorism in front of the world today. A large portion of the money or economic aid that Pakistan receives is spent on the factory of terrorism," he said. He also slammed the United Nations over Pakistan's appointment to the key counter-terrorism committee. "The United Nations Security Council has appointed Pakistan as the Vice-Chair of the Counter-Terrorism Panel. The surprising thing is that this Counter-Terrorism Panel was formed after the 9/11 attacks. It is also no secret that Pakistan gave shelter to the mastermind of that attack," he said. "We have always observed that countries like Pakistan have consistently supported terrorism. What a contradiction it is that both India and Pakistan gained independence at the same time, but today, while India is recognised worldwide as the Mother of Democracy, Pakistan has emerged as the Father of Global Terrorism," he said. Singh also India today is not only defending its borders but is also building a system that is making us stronger from strategic, economic, and technological perspectives. "Earlier, we were entirely dependent on foreign countries for defense equipment, but today I can proudly say that India is rapidly becoming self-reliant in the field of defense," he said. "You will be pleased to know that India's defense export has increased approximately 35 times compared to 2014. In the year 2013-14, defense exports from India were only 686 crore, which have now risen to 23,622 crore in 2024-25," he said. Abhay Nayak, who in a viral video can be seen shouting 'Bomb the Plane', 'Death to America, Death to Trump' and 'Allahu Akbar' on a flight heading to Glasgow airport in Scotland, has been arrested and produced in court. Screen grab from the viral video shows Abhay Nayak raising slogans inside the aircraft. Nayak, 41, was booked for creating a disturbance on an EasyJet flight from Luton in England to Glasgow on Sunday morning. In the video Nayak can be seen being overpowered by fellow passengers. He was subsequently arrested and charged after the plane landed at Glasgow airport. The viral video shows two passengers tackling Nayak and restraining him on the floor of the aircraft. Nayak was produced at the Paisley sheriff court on Monday and now faces charges of assault and endangering the safety of the aircraft and those inside. The incident occurred when US President Donald Trump was in Scotland. 'Counter-terrorism officers reviewed the video footage after the flight and confirmed that Abhay Nayak is not facing terrorism charges,' the BBC reported. The case will return to court next week. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised the speeches of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in the Lok Sabha for articulating the success of Operation Sindoor and India's global outreach respectively. IMAGE: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar participate in debate on Operation Sindoor in Lok Sabha. Photograph: ANI Photo In a post on X, PM Modi said, "An excellent speech by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh Ji, giving an insightful perspective on the success of India's security apparatus and the courage of our armed forces in Operation Sindoor." Praising Jaishankar's speech, he said, "The speech by EAM Dr. Jaishankar Ji was outstanding. He highlighted how the world has clearly heard India's perspective on fighting the menace of terrorism through Operation Sindoor." Initiating the debate on Operation Sindoor, the defence minister said India can go to any extent to uproot terrorism. He said that Operation Sindoor launched to target terror sites in Pakistan is on pause as the armed forces achieved the desired objectives, but could resume in case of any misadventure by Islamabad. Meanwhile, Jaishankar said the result of India's diplomatic efforts post-Pahalgam attack was that only three out of 190 nations which are part of the UN opposed Operation Sindoor. There was overwhelming support that the country which has been attacked has the right to defend itself, the EAM said. Drug regulator Drugs Controller General of India has asked drug controllers of all states and Union Territories to direct manufacturers under their jurisdiction to monitor the presence of a potentially carcinogenic chemical -- N-Nitrosodimethylamine -- in antacid Ranitidine. Ranitidine is used to reduce the amount of acid the stomach makes and also in the treatment of acid reflux and stomach or intestinal ulcers among others. The issue related to safety of Ranitidine drug due to presence of N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) impurity has been under consideration for quite some time now and various measures have been taken from time to time, the DCGI said in a communication on July 24. An expert-committee was constituted in December last year and the report of the expert committee was placed before the 92nd Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) meeting in April this year, the communication, which also had minutes of the DTAB meeting as enclosures, said. The communication said DTAB, after detailed deliberation, recommended that a larger committee is required to be constituted which will look into all the aspects, including the storage conditions of Ranitidine. Also it suggested that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) may conduct a study for assessing the safety of Ranitidine drug considering the presence of NDMA impurity. "The manufacturers should monitor the NDMA levels in the API/formulation and also take risk based measures such as reducing the shelf life etc," the communication said. "In view of above, as recommended by DTAB, you are requested to direct the manufacturers under your jurisdiction to monitor the NDMA levels in the API/formulation of Ranitidine and also take risk-based measures such as reducing the shelf life etc," it added. China on Tuesday unveiled a 489-member delegation, including 321 athletes, for the upcoming 2025 Chengdu World Games. #XinhuaNews Senior police inspector Daya Nayak, once known as an `encounter specialist', was on Tuesday promoted to the rank of assistant commissioner of police, an official said. IMAGE: Senior cop Daya Nayak (third from left) along with the Mumbai Crime Branch team with the weapons recovered from the Tapi abandoned by two accused in the Salman Khan's residence firing case, in Surat, April 24, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo Senior inspectors Jivan Kharat, Deepak Dalvi and Pandurang Pawar too were promoted as ACP by the order of the Maharashtra home department, he said. Nayak, who joined Mumbai Police in 1995 and is currently posted at the Bandra unit of the crime branch, rose to fame in the 1990s as one of the police officers who gunned down a number of gangsters in `encounters'. A film was also made on him. In 2006, the anti-corruption bureau registered a disproportionate assets case against him, but he was later given a clean chit. Nayak also served in the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad and was part of the team which solved the case of the Ambani residence security scare and subsequent murder of Thane businessman Mansukh Hiren in 2021. Participating in a special discussion on Operation Sindoor, Home Minister Amit Shah attacked the Congress party for giving a "clean chit" to Pakistan for the April 22 Pahalgam attack. IMAGE: Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha during the monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi, July 29, 2025. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI video grab Had the Congress opposed Partition, the problem of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir would never have occurred, he said. Shah was referring to former Home Minister P Chidambaram's recent remarks that those behind the Pahalgam massacre could be "homegrown terrorists". "Prime Minister Narendra Modi, through Operation Sindoor, ensured that the masterminds of the Pahalgam attack were eliminated. And yesterday (Monday), in Operation Mahadev, those terrorists who were involved were eliminated," he said. Describing the Pahalgam attack as barbaric, Shah said innocent civilians were brutally killed in front of their families after being asked about their religion. Expressing condolences for those killed in Pahalgam and during Pakistani shelling on civilians, he said civilians were martyred and some gurdwaras and temples damaged due to Pakistani firing. Terrorists are now being sent from Pakistan to Jammu and Kashmir as there are no local terrorists in Kashmir, Shah said. He said after the elimination of the three terrorists, he thought this news would spark a wave of joy across treasury and opposition benches. "But opposition faces are gloomy," he said. Describing Pakistan as the root of all terrorism, he said Pakistan was a mistake committed by the Congress. "Had they rejected Partition, there would have been no Pakistan," he added. Referring to Chidambaram's statement, Shah said it was extremely unfortunate that a former home minister is saying what evidence was there. "What are they trying to prove? Whom are they trying to protect? They say that the terrorists were not Pakistani, and in this way, a former home minister from Congress is trying to give Pakistan a clean chit. By saying this, Chidambaram wants to suggest that if the terrorists were not Pakistani, then why did we attack Pakistan," he said, adding this was a clear conspiracy to protect Pakistan. Shah said under Operation Sindoor, Indian forces attacked targets 100 km inside Pakistan and India could exposed state sponsored terrorism in Pakistan. He said India's armed forces crippled Pakistan's defence systems in such a manner that the neighbouring country had no choice but to request India to halt attacks. "In 1948, Indian armed forces were in a decisive position to take back Pakistan-occupied Kashmir but then PM Jawaharlal Nehru declared unilateral ceasefire," he said. In 1971, Shah said, 93,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered and India had 15,000 sq km Pakistan territory under control, but still PoK was not taken back. During the 1962 war with China, then PM Nehru bade goodbye to Assam in a speech on Akashvani, he said. Shah said between 2005 and 2011, there were 27 terrorists attacks but what did the Congress government do, they just sent dossiers to Pakistan. "Terrorists are now sent from Pakistan to J-K as no local terrorists in Kashmir... Scrapping of Article 370 has destroyed terror ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir," he said. "From 2004 to 2014, there were 7,217 terrorist incidents in Kashmir. From 2014 to 2025, these reduced by 70 per cent to 2,150. From 2004 to 2014, 1,770 civilians died. This reduced by 80 per cent to 357 from 2014 to 2025. From 2004 to 2014, the number of deaths of security forces was 1,060. This decreased to 542 in our time. And there was a 123 per cent increase in the deaths of terrorists," he said. Attacking the Congress, Shah said underworld don Dawood Ibrahim fled in 1986 when Rajiv Gandhi's government was in power, terrorists Syed Salahuddin, Tiger Memon, Anis Ibrahim Kaskar fled in 1993 when the Congress government was in power and when Riyaz Bhatkal fled in 2007 and Iqbal Bhatkal fled in 2010, then again it was a Congress government. "The answer they demanded from me has already been given by our security forces. Now let Rahul Gandhi answer why these people fled," he said. Shah said Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) was scrapped by the Manmohan Singh government in its first cabinet meeting after coming to power in 2004. "The country deserves to know who benefitted from Congress repealing POTA? Those opposed to POTA will never appreciate Narendra Modi's anti-terror policies," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted on Tuesday that no world leader had told India to stop Operation Sindoor as he lashed out at the Congress for importing issues from Pakistan and said the Opposition party is joining terrorists and their masterminds in shedding tears after the victorious Indian military action. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during the discussion on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha, during the Monsoon Session of Parliament, in New Delhi, July 29, 2025. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab Replying to an over 16-hour discussion in Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, Modi rebutted the Opposition's charge over US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of mediating ceasefire, saying he had told US Vice President J D Vance on May 9 night that Pakistan will pay dearly for any attack on India. In his 102-minute speech, the prime minister lauded India's military action as a vijayotsav (victory celebration) and told the House amid cheers from the treasury benches that he was presenting the stand of Bharat. India destroyed Pakistan's military strength between May 9 and May 10. Pakistan now clearly understands that India's response will always get bigger and that India can do anything if it engages in any misadventure in future, he said, emphasising that Operation Sindoor is continuing. Modi said Vance called him up a few times but he was busy in meetings with the armed forces brass and returned the call later. The Vice President told me that Pakistan is going to launch a big attack. I told him if this is Pakistan's intention, then this will cost it dearly. We will respond with a bigger attack. We will fire cannonballs against their bullets. No world leader asked India to stop its military operation, he said. No country stopped India from acting in its defence, PM Modi stressed, adding that only three of the 193 UN members spoke in favour of Pakistan, remarks which came soon after Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi claimed no country condemned Pakistan and cited Trump's claims to question Modi's leadership. Modi then turned on the Congress. The opposition party has fallen to such a low that despite governing India for so long, it does not trust the country's establishment and its trust is in fact guided by remote control in Pakistan, he said. The world supported us but, unfortunately, the valour of the armed forces did not receive support from the Congress, he said While India is surging to become aatmanirbhar, the Congress is becoming dependent on Pakistan for issues, he said. After India hit the terror facilities, the Indian DGMO informed his Pakistani counterpart of the military action. India was also waiting for an opportunity to hit back, Modi said. When Pakistan retaliated, the Indian armed forces taught it a lesson it will not forget for years, Modi said, adding that the neighbouring country was brought to its knees following Indian strikes in its different corners. The prime minister cited comments of some Pakistanis, which appeared on social media, to stress on their shock at the Indian attack. Their DGMO called up the Indian DGMO saying, "Bas karo, bahut mara... stop the attack." They could not bear it any more, he said. In this era of technology-driven war, the Indian defence system proved its mettle, he said, noting that over 1,000 drones and missiles launched by Pakistan were destroyed midair. The main opposition party is importing issues from Pakistan and the Congress and its allies have become spokespersons of Pakistan's disinformation at a time when narratives play a big role in warfare and are used to demoralise the armed forces and people, the prime minister alleged. His opponents, Modi said, echo Pakistan's statements to the comma and full stop. The country is amazed that the Congress is giving a clean chit to Pakistan in the Pahalgam attack, he said in a swipe at former home minister P Chidambaram who had asked if proof existed to state that the terrorists were Pakistanis. Be it the surgical strikes or the air strikes, opposition parties always hoped for Modi to get trapped, and they had a similar wish this time, the prime minister said, citing the campaign against his government over the capture of a BSF personnel by Pakistan. He was safely returned later. Terrorists are crying, their masters are crying and some people are crying watching them, he said in a swipe at the Congress, asserting that Pakistan-based leaders of terrorist groups, who earlier thought they were safe from any Indian action, were now having sleepless nights. He accused the opposition of doing politics over the deaths of 26 civilians in the Pahalgam terror attack, saying they had started to taunt him within three-four days of the tragedy. As the Congress questioned the government's decision to stop military action when Indian forces had got the better of Pakistanis, he said Operation Sindoor had met its 100 percent objective by destroying terror masterminds and their facilities not only in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir but also deep within the neighbouring country. Keeping the Congress in his line of attack, he alleged that the opposition leaders seized on the propaganda being spread from across the border. They ignore facts presented by the armed forces but promote Pakistan's lies, he said, adding that previous precise military operations like surgical strikes and the Balakot air strike had met their targets as well, but opposition parties questioned them too. Operation Sindoor targeted the epicentre of terrorism, where the Pahalgam attack had been planned and terrorists were recruited and trained. With Opposition leaders probing his government as to why it did not allow the armed forces to reclaim Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir, he cited a host of incidents when the previous Congress governments did not do so despite having the military advantage, as in the 1971 war, and even ceded the territories it had captured. The Congress government under Jawaharlal Nehru lost over 38,000 km of territory of Aksai Chin, he said and slammed the Indus Waters Treaty agreement that the first prime minister signed with Pakistan as a "big blunder". The Modi government has put the treaty in abeyance. "Before asking why PoK has not been taken back yet, Congress must respond -- who let it go. India is still suffering the pain of mistakes committed by previous Congress governments, starting from Jawaharlal Nehru," he said. Asserting that Operation Sindoor demonstrated the prowess of India's indigenous defence industry, he said it has raised the global demand for Indian weaponry. Chhattisgarh deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma on Tuesday said the Government Railway Police had sufficient grounds to register a case against the two nuns from Kerala on charges related to religious conversion and human trafficking. IMAGE: Chhattisgarh deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma. Photograph: ANI Photo He also said that a new law will be enacted in the state "to keep society safe from evils" like forced religious conversion, and a bill will be introduced in the next assembly session. Two nuns - Preethi Merry and Vandana Francis - were arrested along with a person identified as Sukaman Mandavi from the Durg railway station on July 25 following a complaint from a local Bajrang Dal functionary, who accused them of forcibly converting three girls from Narayanpur and trafficking them, a railway police official said on Sunday. BJP's Kerala state unit general secretary Anoop Antony Joseph on Tuesday met Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Sharma, who also holds the Home portfolio, in Raipur to discuss the arrest of the two nuns. Talking to reporters later, Sharma said, "The FIR was registered at the GRP police station at the Durg railway station, following which statements (apparently referring to alleged victims) were recorded. Based on those statements, it is clear that they (GRP) had sufficient grounds to file the case." "The women from Abujhmad area (Narayanpur) were being taken by them (nuns) and some locals were also with them. The incidents (of human trafficking) have happened in the past, therefore it is a matter of investigation," he said. The law is doing its job, he said. The deputy CM said a new anti-conversion bill will be introduced in the next session of the state assembly. Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 1968, is currently in force in the state to address the cases of forced conversions. A provision was made in 2006. The then governor had referred that to the then President, but so far no final decision has been taken over it, he said, referring to the Chhattisgarh assembly passing an anti-conversion bill in 2006 during the then BJP government. "Now, it's 2025 and 20 years have passed. Now new situations have unfolded, based on which a new law will be enacted with provisions to keep society safe from such evils (conversion)," he said. According to him, the new anti-conversion bill will be tabled in the next session of state assembly. A delegation of leaders of the Congress-led United Democratic Front alliance in Kerala on Tuesday afternoon visited the Durg central jail and met the two nuns. Sharma said Kerala BJP general secretary Joseph met him and took details of the incident. When asked about the delegation being allegedly stopped from meeting the arrested nuns in Durg Central Jail, and a subsequent protest, Sharma said, "If they staged a protest then it is nothing but just a drama". "I spoke to Leader of Opposition in Chhattisgarh assembly and senior Congress leader Charan Das Mahant and he told me they wanted to meet me. Benny Behanan (a Congress MP who was part of the delegation), called me in the morning and I asked him to meet me at 1.30 pm. But he did not come till then. I again spoke to Mahant ji, he told me that they (the delegation) will first visit the jail and then come. I myself told (the jail authorities) and ensured their meeting. There is no issue in meeting," he said. The UDF delegation included Lok Sabha MPs Benny Behanan of the Congress, N K Premachandran of the RSP and K Francis George of Kerala Congress-Joseph and Roji M John, a Congress MLA besides some other Kerala Congress leaders. Talking to reporters outside the jail premises, Premchandran claimed that the nuns were innocent. "We were allotted time to meet the nuns at 12.30 pm, but not allowed (to go in) as a BJP delegation from Kerala also arrived. After the BJP delegation met them, we were allowed to meet. We staged a protest outside the jail," Premchandran said. The UDF delegation was allowed to go into the jail after 2 pm when former Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel intervened, he said. Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will sponsor the education of 22 children who lost either one or both parents in the Pakistani shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir during Operation Sindoor, a party leader has said. IMAGE: Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi interacts with the students affected by Pakistan's cross-border shelling during his visit to a school in Poonch on May 24, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hameed Karra also refuted any differences with the pre-poll alliance partner National Conference (NC) but said his party is waiting for formation of coordination committee with the ruling party for the past nine months. "A lot of civilian casualties and damage to properties took place in Poonch and Rajouri (between May 7 and 10) in Pakistani shelling. Rahul Gandhi visited Poonch in the aftermath of the devastating shelling and visited the bereaved families. He asked us to prepare a list of school-going children who lost one or both parents, especially the breadwinners, and accordingly we submitted the list to him," Karra, who reached Rajouri on a three-day tour of the region, told reporters late Monday. He said the party has a list of 22 such children in the Poonch district alone, and more such children might be included at the end of the three-day visit. Poonch district alone accounted for 13 civilian deaths among 28 fatalities in the Pakistani shelling and drone attacks in Jammu and Kashmir after the Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes on terror infrastructure across the border under Operation Sindoor in May in retaliation to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 persons, mostly tourists, dead. Karra said he is visiting Poonch on Tuesday to handover the financial aid sent by the leader of opposition for the affected children for their education. "This is an initiative aimed at extending a helping hand to the children so that their studies are not impacted," he said. Lord Meghnad Desai, a renowned British Indian economist and House of Lords peer, died on Tuesday at the age of 85. IMAGE: renowned British Indian economist and House of Lords peer Lord Meghnad Desai. Photograph: ANI Photo He is believed to have passed away in a hospital in Gurugram following a health issue, sources close to the family in London indicated. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led tributes to the Gujarat-born parliamentarian and thinker, who played a prominent role in deepening India-UK relations. "Anguished by the passing away of Shri Meghnad Desai Ji, a distinguished thinker, writer and economist, Prime Minister Modi posted on social media. "He always remained connected to India and Indian culture. He also played a role in deepening India-UK ties. Will fondly recall our discussions, where he shared his valuable insights. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti," he said. Desai, a Padma Bhushan awardee, taught economics from 1965 to 2003 at the London School of Economics (LSE) and went on to become Emeritus Professor of Economics at the institution. In 1992, he established the Centre for the Study of Global Governance at the LSE and was also the director and founding member of the LSE's Development Studies Institute. He joined the Labour Party in 1971 and was elevated to the House of Lords in June 1991 as Lord Desai of St. Clement Danes. He later resigned from the party in 2020 over what he said was the party's failure to effectively tackle antisemitic racism within its ranks and became a crossbench peer in the House of Lords. "He was a dear friend and fellow crossbench colleague, among the first Indian heritage peers in the Lords. He had a great sense of humour and was his own man, always said what he felt, and his was always the most original speech in the House. He was truly iconic, much loved and respected. He will be missed a lot," said Lord Karan Bilimoria. As founder-trustee of the Gandhi Statue Memorial Trust, Desai worked to raise funds for a statue of Mahatma Gandhi which was inaugurated by then prime minister David Cameron at Parliament Square in London in 2015. Fellow peer in the House of Lords, Rami Ranger, described him as a "pillar of the community who worked tirelessly and made significant contributions to many worthy causes, including the Gandhi Memorial Statue at Parliament, which I collaborated on with him". "He will be greatly missed. We pray for a place in heaven for the departed soul and his family's strength to cope with this loss," said Lord Ranger. Baroness Usha Prashar, another fellow British Indian peer, described it as an extremely sad loss. He was a great intellectual, a renowned economist who will be sorely missed for his deep insights, forthright views and sense of humour. At heart, he was a very, very kind man. He will be deeply missed in the House of Lords, said Prashar. Beyond politics, Desai was also an author of several books, including Nehru's Hero Dilip Kumar, the biography of the star whom he dubbed the greatest actor not just in Hindi cinema but on a global scale. The 1928 Institute, secretariat of the India All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG), paid tribute to the towering intellect. For decades, he was central to the UK-India relationship, with many initiatives that exist today owing much to his vision and leadership, the British Indian think tank said in a statement. A driving force within the APPG on India, his tireless efforts strengthened cross-cultural ties and understanding. Beyond his public achievements, Lord Desai was a generous mentor whose warmth, humility, and brilliance inspired countless people. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and all who were fortunate to know him, it said. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday claimed that a Bengali-speaking woman and her child, who were allegedly assaulted in Delhi, were also "threatened". IMAGE: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee along with Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim and others leads a protest rally against alleged atrocities on Bengalis across BJP ruled states, in Birbhum, July 28, 2025. Photograph: @AITCofficial X/ANI Photo Her comment comes after the Delhi police had on Monday called a video, shared by Banerjee on social media, alleging that a Bengali-speaking woman and her child were assaulted in the national capital for speaking their language, "fabricated" and "politically motivated". "They (the woman and her child) were taken to various police stations, just as I had predicted yesterday. They were threatened. We want them to come back, and whoever is speaking the truth and who is lying will be proved eventually," she said. Banerjee said that Bengali-speaking migrant workers in BJP-ruled states should come back to Bengal if they are subjected to harassment. Delhi's Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Abhishek Dhania on Monday said that the police took immediate cognisance of the video shared on the platform 'X' by the West Bengal CM, where she claimed that the woman and her child were brutally assaulted by the Delhi cops. "During sustained questioning, the woman admitted that her relative, a political worker from Malda district in West Bengal, had asked her to make the video. The video was then circulated locally in Bengal and later surfaced on social media," the officer said. Reiterating her appeal to the migrant workers from Bengal to come back to the state, the West Bengal chief minister said that all welfare facilities would be extended to them, including healthcare and education for their children. Banerjee questioned whether central commissions on human rights, women and tribal welfare are sent to Bharatiya Janata Party-ruled states when people face atrocities there. "When Bengali-speaking people face atrocities, or are killed, or thrown out of their residences and water and electricity connections are snapped, how many commissions go?" she asked. "In such cases, it is omission, no commission," she said, speaking at a programme here in Birbhum district after inaugurating several projects, including a 10-megawatt solar power station and some bridges. She claimed that since Bengal has talent and progress is taking place here, atrocities befall on those speaking Bengali language in some other states. "Atrocities are being meted out on the orders of the Home ministry in Assam, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha and Delhi, where the BJP's double-engine governments are there. What is happening?" she asked. Noting that nearly 75 crore man-days have been created in the state, she said that gold, textile and silk clusters, apart from industries, are coming up in West Bengal and asked Bengali-speaking migrant workers to come back and seize the opportunity to work here. Banerjee also claimed that 10 detention camps have been made at Gurugram in Haryana. "Lakhs are in detention camps in Assam," she alleged, recalling the NRC implementation in the northeastern state and claimed that people of all hues and religions were affected by it. She urged all genuine voters in West Bengal to get their names enrolled on the voter list. "Attempts are being made to implement NRC in the name of electoral rolls revision," Banerjee claimed. The chief minister also urged people from the minority community working in other states to come and get their names enlisted in the electoral rolls. "I respect all languages, but I will not accept any attempt to undermine the language of Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam," she said. Banerjee asserted that she will continue her fight against any attempt to undermine Bengal and the Bengali language. Claiming that more than 100 central teams have been sent to Bengal, she alleged that such teams are sent to the state at the slightest pretext. "Teams of human rights, women's commission, tribal panel are sent here, but when women face atrocities in MP, UP, Odisha, Rajasthan, when girls are burnt alive, how many commissions go there?" she asked. "Not a single one is sent," she claimed. The Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered the release of convict Sukhdev Yadav alias Pehalwan in the 2002 Nitish Katara murder case, noting that he has completed his sentence of 20 years in March this year. IMAGE: A view of the Supreme Court of India. Photograph: ANI Photo The Sentence Review Board had rejected Yadav's remission plea, citing his conduct. The top court expressed surprise over the SRB action and said how could it sit over an order passed by the court. "How can the Sentence Review Board sit over an order of the judicial authority. If this is the approach, then every convict will die in jail. Is this the conduct of an executive?" a bench of Justices B V Nagarathna and K V Viswanathan said. The top court said Yadav should have been released after the completion of sentence of 20 years. Additional Solicitor General Archana Pathak Dave, appearing for the Delhi government, argued that there can't be an automatic release after 20 years and life imprisonment means jail till the remainder of natural life. However, senior advocate Siddharth Mridul, appearing for Yadav, submitted that his client completed the sentence on March 9, 2025. He denied any lawful justification to detain Yadav beyond March 9 and said the Delhi government was wrong in its interpretation of the sentence. The top court had earlier granted three months' furlough to Yadav, noting that he has undergone 20 years of uninterrupted incarceration without remission. Furlough is a temporary release from prison, not a suspension or remission of the entire sentence, and is typically granted to long-term inmates who have served a portion of their sentence. Yadav's plea challenged a November 2024 order of the Delhi High Court, which dismissed his petition for releasing him on furlough for three weeks. On October 3, 2016, the Supreme Court awarded a 25-year jail term without the benefit of remission to Vikas Yadav and his cousin Vishal Yadav for their role in the sensational kidnapping and killing of Katara. Co-convict Sukhdev Yadav was given a 20-year jail term in the case. They were convicted and sentenced for kidnapping Katara from a marriage party on the intervening night of February 16 and 17, 2002 and then killing him for his alleged affair with Vikas' sister Bharti Yadav. Bharti is the daughter of Uttar Pradesh politician D P Yadav. The trial court observed that Katara was murdered as Vishal and Vikas Yadav did not approve of his affair with Bharti due to their different castes. The government and the Opposition sparred in the Lok Sabha on Monday during the debate on Operation Sindoor. IMAGE: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh initiates the special discussion on 'India's strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam' in the Lok Sabha, July 28, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo Initiating the debate, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh made many references to Indian legends to explain India's military action against Pakistan, while the Opposition targeted the government on "security lapses" that led to the Pahalgam attack, asking Home Minister Amit Shah to take responsibility for it and also demanded answers on the number of Indian jets that were allegedly downed during Operation Sindoor. The parliamentary skirmish is expected to continue tomorrow as well, with Home Minister Amit Shah and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi expected to make their interventions. Here's a quick look at who spoke in the Lok Sabha on the first day of the Operation Sindoor debate. Videos: Courtesy, ANI We have learnt from Lord Krishna that when the time comes, one must pick up the Sudarshan Chakra to defend dharma. After the 2006 Parliament attack and 2008 Mumbai attacks, we said 'enough is enough' and picked the Sudarshan Chakra, the Raksha Mantri said to thunderous applause from the treasury benches. Rajnath Singh told the Lok Sabha the military operation was an effective and well-coordinated strike against nine terror sites. Seven terror camps were fully destroyed and India has proof of the damage incurred inside PoK and Pakistan, Singh told the House. If Pakistan indulges in fresh misadventure, it will resume again, the defence minister cautioned. We once spoke the language of the Lahore bus journey, but Pakistan did not understand that. We now respond with the Balakot strike, Rajnath Singh told the Lok Sabha, citing the historic Lahore bus journey undertaken by then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1999. However, India's peaceful outreach was misunderstood as weakness, Singh said. Before executing Operation Sindoor, our forces studied every aspect and chose the option that would cause maximum damage to terrorists, while ensuring no harm to innocent civilians, Singh told the Lok Sabha. The entire operation was over in 22 minutes and the Pahalgam killings were "avenged". If Pakistan indulges in a fresh misadventure, it will resume again, the minister said in his opening remarks on the special debate on Pahalgam terror strikes and Operation Sindoor in the lower house. Pakistan initially rejected our rationale of specific targeting of terror outfits during Operation Sindoor and sought to escalate the situation targeting India's civil and military places, thus violating the ceasefire, the defence minister said. He said Pakistan used missiles, drones, rockets, including long-range rockets, among others, to target airports, military establishments and military cantonments. "However, they failed to cause any damage to any establishment." "In any exam, results matter, not whether the pencil was broken or the pen lost. Ultimately, results matter," Singh said, responding to opposition criticism. Participating in a special discussion in the Lok Sabha on 'India's strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam', Congress's deputy leader in the House Gaurav Gogoi said according to the government, its intention was not to occupy territory. He asked the government why was it not so as "if not today, then when will we take Pakistan-occupied Kashmir back"? The Congress leader said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been saying since the Uri and Pulwama attacks that "humne ghar mein ghus ke maara", "we destroyed terror infrastructure" and is making the same remarks even now. "They are still saying that Operation Sindoor is incomplete and Pakistan can do this again. Then how is this a success? They themselves are saying that our intention was not of war. Why was it not so? They say it was not to take territory. Why was it not so? When will we take Pakistan-occupied Kashmir back? If not today, then when?... " Gogoi said. He said the opposition wants to know from Modi that if Pakistan was ready to kneel before India, "Why did you stop and before whom did you surrender?" Gogoi asked Defence Minister Rajnath Singh why did he not name China during his address in the Lok Sabha and said he must disclose how much support that country was providing to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. Referring to Singh's speech, Gogoi said he gave a lot of information, but did not say how the terrorists came to Pahalgam. "The country wants to know ... 100 days have passed, but this government has not brought the terrorists to justice," he said. The home minister kept saying that the backbone of terrorism has been broken, but the Uri, Balakot and Pahalgam incidents still happened, he said. "Who will take responsibility, the (Jammu and Kashmir) LG? It is the home minister who must take responsibility. You cannot hide behind the LG. This government is such a coward and is so weak that it blamed even tour operators for the Pahalgam attack," the Congress leader said. Unfortunately for Gogoi, soon after his speech it was announced in Kashmir that the mastermind behind the Pahalgam terror attack, Suleiman alias Asif, had been killed in Operation Mahadev launched by the security forces in Srinagar's outskirts. The major highlight of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's nearly 40-minute address in the Lok Saha was his articulation of the new normal in combating cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan. "The challenge of cross-border terrorism continues but Operation Sindoor marks a new phase. There is now a new normal. The new normal has five points," Jaishankar said. Explaining the new normal, he added, "One -- terrorists will not be treated as proxies; two -- cross-border terrorism will get an appropriate response; three -- terror and talks are not possible together and there will only be talks on terror; four -- not yielding to nuclear blackmail; and finally -- terror and good neighbourliness cannot co-exist, blood and water cannot flow together. This is our position." BJP leader and Kendrapara (Odisha) MP Baijayant 'Jay' Panda told the Lok Sabha said that Operation Sindoor was an attack on terrorists in Pakistan, and not on civilians. "This is not a reaction, this is Modi's doctrine, which Pakistan has understood. This is a new normal," he said, adding that it is shameful that the opposition only questions Indian armed forces and not Pakistan. Panda also did not miss the opportunity to take digs at the Congress party, saying, "There are several leaders in your (Congress) party who can speak well... My friend Shashi Tharoor Ji, who is a good speaker, is not allowed to speak by his party." The Congress subsequently clarified that it had asked Tharoor if he would like to speak during the debate but that he declined to do so. Taking on the government for halting Operation Sindoor at a time when India's security forces had an edge, TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee questioned the announcement of "ceasefire" and likened it to a player "declaring the innings" on the brink of scoring a century. "... Have you ever heard that a player batting at 90 and heading towards a century, declare the innings. Only Modiji can do this, no one else... It was a matter of completing 100 runs, ended up being out at 90," he said. He also asked why PM Modi did not "counter" US President Donald Trump "even once" on his claims made in a social media post on the role of the US in reaching the ceasefire. In a dig at the prime minister, the TMC MP said that in front of the US president, Modi's stature "gets reduced" and his "chest shrinks from 56 to 36 inches". Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Tuesday launched a blistering attack on the government over the "lapses" that led to the Pahalgam terror attack and said Home Minister Amit Shah talked about Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and even her mother's tears in Lok Sabha but did not answer "why the war" against Pakistan was halted. IMAGE: Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra speaks during a special debate on Operation Sindoor in Lok Sabha, July 29, 2025. Photograph: Screen grab/Sansad TV She also took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying leadership is not just about taking credit but also taking responsibility. Participating in a special discussion in the Lok Sabha on "India's strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam", Priyanka Gandhi said that if no aircraft had been downed during Operation Sindoor then what is the problem in stating this in Parliament. She also asked who will take responsibility of the failure of intelligence agencies in preventing the Pahalgam attack and whether Home Minister Shah resigned or took responsibility for it. Was no government agency in the know that such a dastardly terror attack is going to happen and a plot is being hatched in Pakistan, the Congress general secretary asked. "It is a big failure of our government and intelligence agencies. Who will take responsibility of this? Has anyone resigned? They keep talking about past but who will answer about what is happening in present," she said. A combative Priyanka Gandhi also took on Shah for his remarks earlier in the day when he cited then Union minister Salman Khurshid's remarks to claim that then Congress president Sonia Gandhi "cried for the Batla House terrorists". "My mother's tears were talked about in the House, I want to answer this. My mother's tears fell when her husband was martyred by terrorists, when she was only 44 years old. Today, I am standing in this House and talking about those 26 people (who were killed in Pahalgam) because I know their pain and feel it," Priyanka Gandhi said. The Congress MP from Wayanad in Kerala said Shah talked about Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, even her mother's tears but did not answer "why the war was halted at a time when the enemy had nowhere to go". She said that the purpose of Operation Sindoor was to teach Pakistan a lesson, but perhaps this purpose remains unfulfilled, because "our diplomacy has failed". "The proof of this is that after Operation Sindoor, a Pakistani general, whose hands were stained with blood, was having lunch with the American president. "If the purpose of Operation Sindoor was to eliminate terrorism, then Pakistan being chosen as the chairman of the United Nations' 'Counter-Terrorism Committee' has dealt a blow to this purpose. Will our prime minister take responsibility for this, do they have the courage," she asked. "This government always tries to evade questions... For this government, everything is politics, PR, propaganda, publicity. This government is engrossed in propaganda, which the public cannot see," she said. Hitting out at the prime minister, Priyanka Gandhi also said leadership is not just about taking credit but responsibility needs to be taken. "For the first time in the history of our country, this happened that a war was stopped abruptly and the announcement of the decision was done by the US president. This is reflective of the irresponsibility of our prime minister," Priyanka Gandhi said. She said the home minister stated that Pakistan had no choice but to seek refuge but the question is -- why did you grant them refuge? "Terrorists came to our country, killed people, and you are giving them refuge. Why have you not addressed this in any of your speeches," she asked. Priyanka Gandhi also read out the names of 25 Indians who were killed in the attack, asserting that she was doing this so that every member of the House realises that "they too were human beings like us, not pawns in some political game". "They too were sons of this country. They too are martyrs of this country. We all have a responsibility towards their families; they have the right to know the truth," she said. As Priyanka Gandhi read out the first name, the treasury benches shouted: "Hindu", to which she replied "Bharatiya". Priyanka Gandhi also quoted the wife of Shubham Dwivedi, who was killed in the Pahalgam attack, who said -- "I saw my world end before my eyes, there was not a single security guard there. I can say that the government left us orphaned there." The question is why was there no security, why wasn't there even a single soldier, Priyanka Gandhi asked. "Did the government not know that over a thousand tourists visit there everyday, one has to pass through a jungle route to reach there and there wasn't even any arrangement for medical facilities," she said. People went there trusting this government, and the government left them to the mercy of God, Priyanka Gandhi said. "I want to ask whose responsibility is the safety of the country's citizens? Is it not the responsibility of this country's prime minister? Is it not the responsibility of this country's home minister? Is it not the responsibility of this country's defence minister? Is it not the responsibility of this country's NSA," she asked. Yesterday, the defence minister gave a one-hour speech in which he talked about many things, but one matter was overlooked -- that why and how 26 people were brazenly killed in Pahalgam, she said. Lauding former prime minister and her grandmother Indira Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi said the "great patriot" through successful diplomacy, countered US President Nixon and divided Pakistan. "But Indira Gandhiji never tried to take credit for it," she said. ROME, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Italy's population is projected to shrink by nearly a quarter over the next five decades, with the country's southern regions expected to experience the most significant losses, according to a report released Monday by the National Statistics Institute (ISTAT). The report forecasts that Italy's population - currently estimated at 59 million - will decline to 54.7 million by 2050 and further to 45.8 million by 2080, representing a 22-percent drop over 55 years. The projection underscores the severity of the demographic crisis in a country already known for having one of the world's oldest populations. ISTAT attributes the long-term decline to persistently low birth rates, high life expectancy, and changing family structures. Italy's fertility rate stands at just 1.2 children per woman - well below the 2.1 threshold needed for population replacement. The country's average age has risen to 46.4 years. Even after accounting for immigration, ISTAT noted that population inflows will not be sufficient to reverse the downward trend, particularly under current restrictive migration policies. The demographic shift is expected to significantly alter Italy's age distribution. By 2050, individuals aged 65 and over will account for 34.6 percent of the population, up from 24.3 percent today. The working-age population (15-64 years) is projected to fall to 54.3 percent from 63.5 percent, while the share of children under 14 is expected to decline slightly from 12.2 percent to 11.2 percent. Household structures are also evolving. Currently, three in ten households in Italy consist of couples with children - a figure forecast to drop to just one in five by 2050. Meanwhile, single-person households are projected to increase from 36.8 percent to 41.1 percent of the total. The effects of population decline will not be uniform across the country. Southern Italy - historically affected by youth out-migration and economic stagnation - is expected to lose 3.4 million residents by 2050 and up to 7.9 million by 2080. While northern regions may experience modest population growth through 2030, they too are projected to enter a gradual decline thereafter. In a no-holds-barred attack, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of using the armed forces to protect his image after the Pahalgam attack and dared him to rebut US President Donald Trump's India-Pakistan ceasefire claims. IMAGE: Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi speaks during the discussion on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha, during the Monsoon Session of Parliament, in New Delhi, July 29, 2025. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab "If Modi ji has even 50 percent of the courage that Indira Gandhi had, then clearly he must say in Parliament -- Donald Trump is lying," he said. Gandhi also said that if the government had listened to his statement in Lok Sabha a few months ago on China and Pakistan fusing together, they would "not have lost five aircraft" during Operation Sindoor. Participating in a special discussion in Lok Sabha on "India's strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam", he claimed the government revealed sensitive details about Operation Sindoor to Pakistan, soon after it was launched. "Yesterday, I watched Rajnath Singh ji's speech. He said that Operation Sindoor began at 1:05 in the morning and lasted for 22 minutes. He said a very shocking thing: that at 1:35, we called Pakistan and told them that we had hit non-military targets and we didn't want escalation. These are the words of the Defence Minister of India," the former Congress president said. "You told Pakistan exactly what you would do: that you would not target military establishments and you didn't want escalation. That's surrender. Immediate surrender in 30 minutes," Gandhi said, slamming the government. He cited remarks by Defence Attache in Indonesia, Group Captain Shiv Kumar, to claim that there were constraints by the political leadership to not attack the Pakistani military establishment and their air defences. Why was the Pakistani government told that India will neither attack their army infrastructure nor their air defense and why were the hands of the Indian Air Force tied, Gandhi asked. He alleged that the goal of this exercise was to "protect the image of the PM" as he had "blood of Pahalgam victims on his hands". Gandhi said this government is clueless about what deterrence and political will means, and gave Indira Gandhi's example when Pakistan was broken into two parts in 1971. "I said in this House, three-four months back and they laughed at me. I said please understand that India's biggest foreign policy challenge has been to keep Pakistan and China separate. And I said here that I am sad to say that you have destroyed the single biggest goal of foreign policy. China and Pakistan are fused," Gandhi said. He said that what happened during Operation Sindoor is that the government of India thought it was fighting Pakistan but soon realised that they were fighting China and Pakistan both. "Meaning that the Pakistani Air Force was attached with the Chinese Air Force and not only that, the doctrine of the Pakistani Air Force was changed ...the Chinese were feeding critical battlefield information to them," he said and cited Deputy Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Rahul R Singh remarks on China's support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. Gandhi asserted that the armed forces should be used with freedom, saying if one wants to unleash a tiger, it should be freed. "Do not tie his hands behind his back. Go all the way, defeat them once and for all. Don't have President Trump tell you 29 times that he stopped the war. Have the courage to tell him, 'no, to hell with you, you can't stop any war, we are going to fight'," the former Congress president said. "The point is that we're now facing a Chinese-Pakistani fusion right in front of us," he said. "This is a very dangerous time, and we can't afford a Prime Minister who lacks the courage to utilise the army the way it has to be used. We can't afford a Prime Minister who doesn't have the guts to say from here that Donald Trump is a liar, that he didn't stop India from fighting and is lying about the planes," Gandhi said. He said India needs a Prime Minister who frees the Army, Air Force and Navy and tells them -- 'Go, finish the job", much like what Indira Gandhi did. Gandhi claimed that Trump has stated "29 times" that he brought about a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. "If he is lying, the PM should say here that Trump is lying. If he has the courage of an Indira Gandhi let him say here, 'Trump, you are a liar, you did not make a ceasefire and we dd not lose any planes'," Gandhi said. "If Modi ji has even 50 percent of the courage that Indira Gandhi had, then clearly he must say in Parliament - Donald Trump is lying!" he said. In his remarks, Gandhi also referred to a statement of Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, who said in an interview that India rectified its tactics and hit deep inside Pakistani territory after suffering losses during Operation Sindoor. "The Indian Air Force made no mistake but the mistake was committed by the political leadership that 'you cannot attack military infrastructure and CDS Anil Chauhan must say 'my hands were tied so the Air Force is not to be blamed at all'," Gandhi said. Gandhi asserted that the Pahalgam incident was a brutal attack that was organised and orchestrated clearly by the Pakistani state. Referring to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's remarks in the House, Gandhi said he did not tell people that no country condemned Pakistan particularly. "When the UPA government was there Pakistan was condemned for terrorism," he said. Gandhi slammed Modi for not speaking out when Trump hosted the "architect of the Pahalgam attack", Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir, for lunch. With the alleged honour killing of a Dalit IT engineer in Tamil Nadu sending across shock waves, allies of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam on Tuesday demanded a separate legislation to handle such incidents. Image used for representational purpose only. Photograph: ANI Photo The victim, 27-year-old Kavin Selvaganesh was hacked to death by a youth, allegedly over an inter-caste relationship near a Siddha facility in the southern Tirunevlei district on Sunday. The victim was employed as an engineer with a software firm in Chennai. Thol Thirumavalavan, VCK chief, an ally of the ruling DMK, demanded legislation to prevent honour killings. "It is said the woman's parents, who were involved in this gruesome honour killing, have not been arrested. They must be arrested and removed from (police) service," Thirumavalavan said in a statement here. He sought the transfer of the case to a special investigating team for fair probe. "It is distressing that caste-based honour killings and casteist attacks continue to occur, particularly in the southern districts. We reiterate our demand for the creation of a dedicated intelligence unit in the police department to curb such caste-based atrocities," he said. Communist Party of India-Marxist state secretary P Shanmugam too demanded the state government to enact legislation to prevent honour killings. "The occurrence of such caste killings in many parts of Tamil Nadu, especially in the southern districts, is a cause for concern. The government contends that the existing criminal laws are sufficient, but the ongoing caste killings underscore the need for a new law," he said in a statement. He also sought appropriate compensation and government jobs for Kavin's family. The suspect, S Surjith, has been arrested on July 28 and remanded. According to a police officer, both Saravanan and Krishnakumari, the parents of the accused, are police sub-inspectors, and they have been placed under suspension following the incident. Senior police officials went to the house of Kavin Selvaganesh to console his parents and provide relief. However, his parents declined to accept the relief and demanded the immediate arrest of the SI couple as justice for their son's murder. A case has been registered against the SI couple and their son Surjith under various sections of BNS and SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, the police said. Police investigation revealed that on July 27, the victim, Kavin had gone to KTC Nagar to consult the woman, a Siddha physician, about his grandfather's health condition. He was accosted by the woman's brother Surjith who invited him home for a discussion. Trusting him, Kavin went along with him. But enroute, Surjith abruptly stopped his two-wheeler, pulled out a sickle and indiscriminately attacked Kavin, the police said. Though Kavin attempted to flee, Surjith overtook him and hacked him to death, the police added. Meanwhile, the relatives of Kavin staged a protest in neighbouring Tuticorin district, demanding justice for him. One of his relatives attempted to immolate himself, but the police present on the spot poured water on him and thwarted the attempt. An IT employee belonging to a Scheduled Caste has been hacked to death by a youth, allegedly over an inter-caste relationship, police have said. The 27-year-old victim was employed as an engineer with a software firm in Chennai. He was murdered near a Siddha facility in Tirunelveli on Sunday by the accused youth, police said. The suspect, S Surjith, was arrested on July 28 and remanded. According to a police officer, both the parents of the accused are sub-inspectors. A case has been registered against the SI couple and their son Surjith under various sections of BNS and SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, police said. Police investigation revealed that on July 27, the victim Kavin had gone to KTC Nagar to consult the woman, a Siddha consultant, about his grandfather's health condition. "He was accosted by the woman's brother Surjith who invited him home for a discussion. Trusting him, Kavin went along with him. But enroute, Surjith abruptly stopped his two-wheeler, pulled out a sickle and indiscriminately attacked Kavin," police said. Though Kavin attempted to flee, Surjith overtook him and hacked him to death, police said. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday said the UK will recognise the state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September unless Israel moves towards a ceasefire in Gaza. IMAGE: Palestinians gather at the site of an Israeli strike, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. Photograph: Mohammed Salem/Reuters In an address from 10 Downing Street, Starmer also asked Hamas to immediately release all the Israeli hostages taken on October 7, sign up to an immediate ceasefire and commit to disarmament as well as accept that it will play no part in the government of Gaza. "I've always said that we will recognise a Palestinian state as a contribution to a proper peace process at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution," said Starmer. With that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act. So today as part of this process towards peace, I can confirm the UK will recognise the State of Palestine by the UN General Assembly in September unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire and commit to a long-term sustainable peace, reviving the prospect of a two-state solution, he said. The British Prime Minister said his appeal includes allowing the UN to restart the supply of aid and making clear there will be no annexations in the West Bank. Meanwhile, our message to the terrorists of Hamas is unchanged and unequivocal. They must immediately release all of the hostages, sign up to a ceasefire, disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza, he said. Israel rejected Prime Minister Starmer's statement, saying that the shift in the British government's position constitutes a reward for Hamas. "The shift in the British government's position at this time, following the French move and internal political pressures, constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of hostages," Israel Foreign Ministry said on social media. Meanwhile, Starmer reiterated that an assessment will be made in September of how far the parties have met its conditions, but no one should have a veto over our decision. He noted that he had discussed the issue with US President Donald Trump during their talks in Scotland on Monday, paving the way for a major effort to get humanitarian supplies back into Gaza. Our goal remains a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. But right now that goal is under pressure like never before, he said. He stressed that the Palestinian people have endured terrible suffering, with Gaza the scene of starving babies, children too weak to stand, images that will stay with us for a lifetime. Suffering must end, Starmer said, adding that the UK's primary aim was to change the situation on the ground for people who desperately need change. The address preceded Foreign Secretary David Lammy's statement presenting the UK's stance at the UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East. The development follows French President Emmanuel Macron's decision earlier, making France the first G7 country and Permanent Member of the UN Security Council to announce his decision to recognise the state of Palestine to pile on pressure on Israel amid the Middle East conflict. BRATTLEBORO Bail will remain at the same amount for a driver accused of striking and killing a man who was waiting by his stuck car along Route 30 on Dec. 9 in Townshend. Shane Whittaker, 24, of Jamaica, and friends were driving on Route 30 when their car slid off the road, according to information from the court. They were waiting by their vehicle when Whittaker was struck at about 6:30 p.m. Dec. 9 by a truck being driven by Daniel Carr, 34, of Townshend. After his arraignment hearing in December, Carr was held on a $25,000 bond. He pleaded not guilty to gross negligent operation with death resulting, leaving the scene of an accident with death resulting, two counts of reckless endangerment, providing false information to police, driving with a criminally suspended license, failure to comply with ignition interlock device restricted driver's license, and violation of conditions of release. "The court remains satisfied that the bail amount in this case is the least restrictive amount necessary to mitigate the risk of life," Windham Superior Judge John Treadwell said at a hearing Monday, citing the "seriousness of the charges" and "history of conduct." Townshend man held on $25K bond for Dec. 9 road death BRATTLEBORO A driver accused of striking and killing a man waiting by his stuck car along Defense attorney Daniel Stevens of the Windham County Public Defender's Office proposed reducing the bail to $5,000 then Carr would need to post a $500 bond or 10 percent. "There are things to litigate in this case," Stevens said. "He should be able to post bail at a lesser amount and defend this case." Carr "has potential places to live" and "family who are interested in having him in the community," Treadwell said. Carr has "a military record showing an honorable discharge, and various medals and awards earned during his service to the country." Treadwell said Carr's criminal history appears to begin around 2013 and includes "numerous offenses, many of them motor vehicle offenses in New Hampshire and also offenses in Vermont." Carr also has a conviction for resisting arrest in 2014. "Currently, the court is particularly concerned about the pending charge from 2022 for felony negligent eluding, conduct that certainly suggests actionable behaviors undertaken by a person to avoid court proceedings," Treadwell said, as it appears "Carr was involved in an accident as a result of his operation and then repeatedly told the police that someone else was driving." Similarly, his romantic partner Jamee Shields, initially told police she was driving in the Dec. 9 incident. Shields pleaded guilty to providing false information to a police officer and is on probation. Treadwell said the charge could have been obstructing justice. A motion to lift a no-contact order between the two also was rejected Monday. Carr has been unable to post bail and has unsuccessfully tried to seek release to home detention, Treadwell said. Proposed residences were not approved by the Department of Corrections. "I certainly understand the concern that has been expressed about whether or not one of those residences could have been approved, but it was often the way the statute is written," Treadwell said. "There is nothing for this court to do until a report is filed indicating that the residence is appropriate." Stevens said Carr has children and has been working with the Greater Falls Community Justice Center, which provided a statement saying he is taking the matter seriously and would be willing to make amends to the victim's family. "It's an extremely sad case," Stevens said. "The issue really with the case going forward is going to be the felony charges and whether there was gross negligent operation on the date in question." Stevens said attorneys are in the discovery process, taking depositions and waiting for an accident reconstruction report. He anticipates the case may not be ready for trial until the winter or spring. Carr accepts that he will get extradited for a driving with a suspended license charge in New Hampshire if he can post bail. State's Attorney Steven Brown said the court has "a well established record" of Carr's case to maintain the bail that was set, and no major changes in circumstances justify reducing bail for any amount. "The state is somewhat concerned about him using the restorative justice process as a means to convince the court to reduce the bail," Brown said, urging the judge to focus on the conduct that landed Carr in court in the first place. Li Hongzhong, vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, delivers a message from Chinese President Xi Jinping and makes a speech at the World Youth Conference for Peace in Beijing, capital of China, July 29, 2025. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Li Hongzhong, vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, on Tuesday called on young people around the world to unite in promoting peace. Li, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the remarks at the World Youth Conference for Peace, which was held in Beijing. He also delivered a message from Chinese President Xi Jinping at the gathering. Li said that young people from all countries should join hands to advocate peace, urging them to contribute to world peace, promote development and cooperation, and promote exchanges to advance the harmonious coexistence of different civilizations and mutual understanding among all peoples. Li noted that the CPC and the Chinese government will, as always, foster a sound environment for the growth and development of youth. He said that China encourages and supports young people from China and abroad to strengthen exchanges, deepen friendship, enhance collaboration, and work together to build a bright future for the community with a shared future for humanity. Themed "Together for Peace," the conference brought together more than 3,000 participants from over 130 countries in five continents. MANCHESTER Orvis will cut 4 percent of its workforce by the end of 2025. This is the key news emerging from a statement released by Simon Pe Auckland-based data centre, cloud and business continuity services provider Plan B is rebranding as Atturra from the end of July after being acquired by the ASX-listed company last December. Plan B supports over 1000 clients and operates a nationwide network of five data centres interconnected through a high-speed network backbone. As Atturra, the company now has five business lines in New Zealand including managed services, cloud services, business applications, data and integration, and advisory and consulting divisions. Country manager Frazer Scott will support Atturras A/NZ-wide network strategy and lead the companys New Zealand managed services business to harmonise Atturras offer in New Zealand. For us the things we are excited about is Plan B for a long time has had a blessing of a lot of customers and weve had some great results and great services weve provided to those customers, but weve always had a couple of areas of opportunity, Scott told Reseller News. These included proper managed services, end-user support and pure public cloud. With us becoming Atturra now weve got those skills in Australia to extend our NZ portfolio across end user support, public cloud, security and procurement as well. Application management and modernisation, data and AI were also areas Plan B could lean into in the future. BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- All-out disaster relief and rescue operations are underway in Beijing as the latest round of intense rainstorms have left 30 people dead in the Chinese capital as of midnight Monday, damaging roads, disrupting power supply and prompting mass evacuation. The deaths occurred in Beijing's northern mountainous districts, with 28 in Miyun and two in Yanqing, according to local authorities. On Monday, Chinese President Xi Jinping made an important instruction regarding flood control and disaster relief work, urging all-out efforts to ensure the safety of people's lives and property in the fight against rain-triggered floods and geological disasters affecting some parts of China. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, said all-out search and rescue must be conducted for those missing or trapped, and residents in flood-threatened areas must be promptly relocated and resettled to minimize casualties. Across Beijing alone, more than 80,000 people have been relocated, while the rainstorms damaged 31 road sections and disrupted the power supply in 136 villages. "Heavy rain started to hit on Saturday night, flooding some homes in the town," said Cui Di, deputy chief of Shicheng Township in the hardest-hit Miyun. Cui worked tirelessly to assist with relocating residents to safer areas. "During emergencies like this, it's tough for everyone. We do our best to make the shelter as comfortable as possible to ease their anxiety," Cui said. Cui noted that local authorities have also prepared essential supplies, including mattresses, blankets, bread and eggs, for the displaced residents. In a resettlement center in Miyun, fourth-grade student Zhao Zixuan is sitting on the bed reading a book. He was brought out of a flooded village by speedboat. "It is very safe here, and I can read with peace of mind," Zhao said. By 8 a.m. on Tuesday, rainfall in Taishitun Township, Miyun District, one of the hardest hit areas, had started to weaken. Floodwaters on Yong'an Road near the town government had mostly receded, and some nearby shops had resumed operations. According to authorities of Miyun District, peak flow in the Qingshui River running through Putaoyuan Village reached 2,800 cubic meters per second during the downpours. By contrast, the average flow of the river over the past decade has been just 1.62 cubic meters per second. Gao Shuhong, a villager living near the bank of the river, said her family of four climbed to the roof of their house to escape from the rising floodwater. Gao said: "The firefighters risked their lives to save us. One of them nearly fell from the roof." "Water, electricity, and gas have been cut off. After 1 p.m., even our phones have no signal," said one villager of Guanshang Village in Zhenluoying Township of Pinggu District. Hundreds of villagers could be seen lining up beside vehicles, carrying bags filled with daily necessities and various medications, waiting for evacuation on Monday. Villagers told Xinhua that: "The water was even deeper than the thigh." With communication disrupted, community workers went door-to-door to alert residents: "Pack your essentials and evacuate immediately!" The heavy rain damaged roads and bridges, forcing emergency repair work to be carried out in parallel with evacuation efforts. "This stone bridge is the only exit from the village to the west," said Liu Jiayin, deputy head of Zhenluoying Township. "After a whole morning of urgent repairs, it's finally passable for vehicles. If the road had remained closed, it would have posed a serious threat to villagers' safety and their daily needs." Affected residents were steadily relocated to temporary shelters. At a temporary resettlement site in Pinggu District, relocated residents were primarily from Guanshang Village and Damiaoyu Village of Zhenluoying Township. "This temporary shelter was activated early in the morning. It can hold about 1,000 people, and we've already housed more than 900 villagers," said Shi Xiaoxiao, a local official from Zhenluoying Township. "We've prepared plenty of hot water and serve four dishes and a soup for each meal. We also have air conditioners, and for elderly residents whose children are not by their side, we make sure they have someone to talk to so they don't feel alone." As of 9 p.m. on Monday, a total of 16,934 people from 6,363 households across 189 villages in 19 townships and subdistricts of Miyun had been evacuated. In Taishitun Township, flood-affected villagers were moved to Taishizhuang Middle School. "Around 3 p.m. yesterday, relocated villagers began arriving," said Zhao Peng, deputy head of the town. "In the evening, we had 320 people here." Considering most of them were elderly, the shelter has two doctors. During lunch, a couple eating their hot meals at the site told Xinhua: "We've only seen flooding like this on TV. Thanks to the rescue teams, otherwise, we might lose our lives." In recent days, extreme and severe convective weather, brought by warm, moist air from the edge of the subtropical high, has occurred in Miyun and other areas of Beijing. Torrential rains have also hit regions near Beijing. At 8 p.m. Monday, the Beijing municipal flood control headquarters activated the highest level of its citywide flood-control emergency response mechanism. Authorities have warned the public to stay away from sections of the fast-flowing river. Due to continuous heavy rainfall, railway authorities on Tuesday temporarily suspended some trains on the Beijing-Harbin high-speed railway. China's Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Emergency Management on Tuesday allocated 350 million yuan (about 48.94 million U.S. dollars) in central government disaster relief funds to nine provincial-level regions, including Beijing, which were affected by floods. The funds will prioritize emergency rescue operations and disaster relief for affected residents in these regions. Also on Tuesday, China's National Development and Reform Commission said that it had allocated 200 million yuan to assist disaster relief efforts in Beijing. Telco One NZ has sealed a three-year exclusive partnership with Sydney-based Advantai Group to bring its Fastter mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) enablement platform to New Zealand. The deal paves the way for consumer brands to launch their own mobile services without time, cost or regulatory barriers. Fastter is a full-service, creative telecommunications enablement and management studio that creates, enables and grows new mobile verticals. It empowers companies to integrate telco into their loyalty and customer engagement strategies, riding on One NZs network. Were untangling telco, said Advantai CEO David Joss. Fastter effectively removes the biggest barriers to entry. This provides large Kiwi brands with a unique opportunity to create more value for their customers. Advantai hosts, runs, operates and manages mobile solutions for brands to offering zero risk entry via a revenue-share model, he said. Time, cost and regulatory compliance are usually the key challenges for brands to launch their own mobile solutions, which we manage for our partners. In the right conditions, we can launch a fully branded mobile offering in just nine weeks, while traditionally it would take a minimum of nine months with significant upfront investment. One NZ general manager of infrastructure partners Murray Osborne said he believed there was massive untapped potential for Kiwi brands to scale rapidly and unlock more customer loyalty. The legislation is formally titled the Bill To Counter The Publication Of Fake News Content In Cyberspace. But its critics simply call it the Bill Of Suffocation. Irans conservative-dominated parliament voted overwhelmingly over the weekend to expedite the review of the controversial bill, which was drafted by the government of reformist President Masud Pezeshkian and the country's hardline judiciary. The bill has sparked heated debate across political and civil society circles. Critics argue that vague terminology, such as disturbing public opinion and content against state security, could allow for broad and arbitrary crackdowns on media freedom and legitimate criticism. This bill represents arguably the most expansive attack on freedom of speech in the form of legislation, UK-based legal scholar Omid Shams told RFE/RLs Radio Farda. He said the legislation seeks to regulate every stage of news reporting -- from gathering information to publication -- through the lens of criminal, rather than civil, law. The ultimate goal, Shams argued, is to create what legal scholars call a chilling effect, prompting journalists and others to censor themselves for fear of prosecution. Backing The Bill The 22-article bill sets out specific responsibilities for government ministries, defines a range of violations, and prescribes penalties, including prison sentences and publishing bans, for individuals or entities found guilty of spreading false content. Notably, it allows special committees to order the swift removal of online content without independent judicial oversight. The legislation also grants the Press Supervisory Board the power to suspend or restrict the accounts of media outlets it deems noncompliant. Supporters within the government contend that the bill is crucial for maintaining public safety and order, especially given the rapid spread of misinformation online. They argue that the measures outlined in the legislation are essential for national security and social stability. In a statement defending the bill, the Justice Ministry -- not to be confused with the judiciary -- insisted that anyone who spreads fake news that disrupts public calm and, through toxic information, harms public health, the economy, national interests, and the mental well-being of society must, by any rational standard, be held accountable. The government insists the bill reflects global best practices, claiming that the experiences of other countries were used to draft the bill. This led journalist Armin Montazeri to quip on X that Tehran likely modelled the legislation after similar laws in Egypt and Russia -- countries with poor free speech records. Beyond the reformist-led government, support for the bill comes almost exclusively from ultraconservatives. The hardline newspaper Kayhan, whose editor-in-chief is appointed by the supreme leader, has been targeting critics of the bill, describing them as pro-Western foot soldiers of the Islamic republics enemies. The paper even criticized Pezeshkian for agreeing to meet with the bills critics, warning him that the government is not allowed to rescind the bill. It urged the president to ask critics why they are terrified of the bills passing when all it is meant to do is combat lies, rumormongering, and falsehoods? Pezeshkian Under Fire Some of the bills staunchest critics are reformists who supported Pezeshkian during his presidential campaign. While campaigning last year, Pezeshkian often talked about the need to uphold freedom of expression, going as far as saying, We believe free speech is a right of every Iranian. His supporters now accuse him of going back on his word. Ali Sharifi-Zarchi, a pro-reform academic who often clashes with conservatives on social media, lamented the parliaments vote for the Bill Of Suffocation, saying it is a clear violation of Pezeshkians campaign promises. I apologize to all my compatriots for asking them to vote for Pezeshkian and pledge to never repeat this mistake, he wrote on X. The criticism has even extended to the press, with reformist daily Hammihan urging the president not to upset the masses, arguing that it is crucial to tread carefully so as not to further inflame public anger. In his early days in office, Pezeshkian often spoke about how he coordinates his decisions with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, suggesting he sees his role more as an executive subordinate to Khamenei than as an independent head of state. That alone makes the administrations backing for the bill unsurprising, argued London-based political analyst Babak Dorbeiki. That means the government is supposed to do things that previous administrations may not have been able to, he told Radio Farda. Iran consistently ranks poorly on free speech indices, with Reporters Without Borders (RSF) describing it as one of the worlds most repressive countries in terms of press freedom in its most recent annual report. According to the RSF, there are currently 21 journalists imprisoned in Iran. The bill is now being reviewed by various parliamentary committees before it can be put to a vote on the floor. If approved, it will be sent to the Guardian Council -- the constitutional watchdog - which will decide whether it can become law or requires amendments. With reporting by Mehdi Tahbaz and Mohammad Zarghami of RFE/RLs Radio Farda A fresh wave of Russian missile and drone strikes overnight left more than 20 people dead and scores wounded across Ukraine just hours after US President Donald Trump told Vladimir Putin he had 10-12 days to stop the attacks or face stiff sanctions and tariffs. Trump said on July 28 that he was "disappointed" with the Russian leader and that he was shortening a 50-day deadline he had given Russia to come to a peace deal with Ukraine two weeks ago. The move meant Trump wants peace efforts to make progress by around August 7-9. The Kremlin has not commented directly on the new deadline, though former president Dmitry Medvedev, who is deputy head of the countrys Security Council, said on July 29 that Trump should stop playing the ultimatum game with Russia. In one of the deadliest single strikes, Russia hit the Zaporizhzhya region with FAB-type guided aerial bombs, Ivan Fedorov, the head of the region's military administration, said on July 29. Ukraine's Penitentiary Service said the Russian strikes targeted a correctional colony in the village of Bilenke in the Zaporizhzhya region, killing at least 17 people and injuring 82 more persons. The blast destroyed prison buildings and damaged adjacent private homes. "All the injured are receiving emergency medical care," Fedorov said. In the town of Kamyanske in Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region, a missile strike damaged several buildings, including a maternity hospital and another department. The strike left two civilians dead and five wounded, including two women in critical condition, one of whom is pregnant. Another attack in the Dnipropetrovsk region killed at least one more civilian as drones and glide bombs hit residential areas and public infrastructure. Ukraine Strikes Back: Explosions Rock Russian Territory While Ukraine mourned its dead, its military responded with long-range strikes across several Russian regions overnight. The Ukrainian Air Force said it launched dozens of drones and missiles targeting military infrastructure, airbases, and fuel depots in Rostov, Kursk, and Belgorod. Russias Defense Ministry claimed it intercepted 74 drones over five regions. Significant damage was confirmed in Salsk, in the Rostov region, where debris from a downed drone landed on a railway station. A fire broke out in a freight train, disrupting railway operations. A passenger train was evacuated, and some trains experienced delays. The falling debris also hit a car, killing its driver. Nearby homes had windows shattered and roofs damaged. As the war grinds on well into its fourth year, Ukrainian officials and human rights groups have continuously called out Russia for its strikes on civilian targets, classifying them as war crimes. Despite mounting evidence of hospitals, residential buildings, power plants, and other civilian infrastructure being hit, the Kremlin continues to claim that its forces do not deliberately strike such targets. A Serbian military special operations brigade has completed joint training with a Chinese brigade in China despite strong objections from the European Union and the United States. The joint training ran from July 19-28 and took place in Hebei Province in northern China as Serbia, a candidate country for EU accession, tries to balance its European integration while maintaining close ties with Beijing and Moscow. "The training provided a boost to military cooperation and enhanced the interoperability of combat teams in executing missions alongside foreign armed forces and in international environments," Serbias Foreign Affairs Ministry said. Serbias Ministry of Defense said the joint training, which was announced two weeks ago, involved mixed combat teams rehearsing tactical missions in both urban and rural settings supported by unmanned platforms. "The focus was on drone tactics in special forces operations, and the activities also included firearms, tactical, and mountaineering training," the ministry said in a statement. It was the first joint military training between the two countries and the first between China and an EU candidate country. In recent years, Serbia has expanded its military cooperation with China, including the purchase of Chinese weaponry such as the FK-3 air defense system. Serbia's friendly policies toward Beijing have drawn a negative reaction from Brussels, which has issued multiple warnings to Belgrade. An EU spokesperson told RFE/RL earlier this month after the latest exercise, dubbed Peacekeeper 2025, that the bloc wants to know it can count on Serbia as a reliable European partner committed to common principles, values, and security. "We need Serbia to assure us of its strategic orientation," the spokesperson said. As a candidate country, Serbia is obliged to align its foreign policy with that of the EU, which Brussels has repeatedly brought to Belgrade's attention. Though Serbia maintains military neutrality it is a member of NATO's Partnership for Peace program, and its strategic goal remains EU accession. However, Belgrade continues to balance its foreign policy between the West, China, and Russia, which is currently under Western sanctions due to its invasion of Ukraine. Security analyst Nikola Lunic earlier this month warned that these joint drills "undermine Serbias proclaimed EU orientation." Lunic told RFE/RL that interoperability between Serbian and Chinese units sends a clear message to the West. Brussels and Washington have repeatedly expressed concern about Serbia's arms purchases from Russia and China, especially since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Serbia purchased the FK-3 air defense system in 2022, two years after buying six new CH-92A drones from China. This made Serbia the first European operator of these Chinese missiles and combat drones. During a military equipment showcase in April 2023, Serbia unveiled the new Chinese CH-95 drone to the public. From Belgrades perspective, this deepening cooperation is consistent with its multi-vector foreign policy, using partnerships with diverse global actors to maximize its leverage and independence on the world stage, said Vuk Vuksanovic of the Belgrade Centre for Security Policy. Vuksanovic pointed to the Global Security Initiative, highlighting increased military and police education exchanges and the rapid adoption of Chinese technology, surveillance, and police equipment by Serbia. Exercises such as Peacekeeper 2025 serve two key interests, according to Vuksanovic. They help Serbia gain international operations experience and boost its profile as a major power, especially given resistance from EU states against deepening partnerships with the Chinese military. US President Donald Trump said a deadline for Russia to make progress toward ending its war against Ukraine is "10 days from today," or he will impose tariffs and other measures on Moscow. "10 days from today. And then we're gonna put on tariffs and stuff," Trump told reporters on Air Force One on July 29 as he flew back to Washington following a trip to Scotland this week. "And I don't know if it's [the deadline] going to affect Russia, because he [Russian President Vladimir Putin] wants to obviously probably keep the war going. But we're going to put on tariffs and the various things that you put on. It may or may not affect them, but it could." A day earlier, Trump said he was shortening the deadline for Russia to agree to a cease-fire in Ukraine from 50 days to 10-12 days. The 50 days referred to an ultimatum he gave earlier this month for Putin to agree to a cease-fire or face very severe tariffs. At the time, Trump also suggested tariff hikes for countries that purchase Russian energy exports. Putin's spokesman, Dmitri Peskov, gave a terse response to the 10-12 day deadline on July 29, saying the Kremlin had "taken note" of Trump's comments without elaborating. There was no immediate comment from the Kremlin on Trump's latest announcement. Trump has shown signs of growing frustration with Putin's refusal to agree to a cease-fire while at the same time pummeling Ukraine on an almost nightly basis with drone and missile strikes. At the same time, Ukraines outgunned and outmanned army is also facing pressure on the ground as Russian forces are making new efforts to drive back Ukrainian defenders along a 1,000-kilometer front line in the east of the embattled country. "You may not even have 10 days, that may shift," said State Department press secretary Tammy Bruce. "He [Trump] shortened the [50 -day] deadline because he knew what's happening there. Trump has been patient and that may have been misinterpreted by some people. And the time for misinterpretation is over," she added. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Ukrainian naval patrols in the Black Sea are deployed to shoot down incoming drones and prevent Russian ships from approaching the shore. Officers on one patrol say they've used small, maneuverable boats and sabotage tactics to repel Russian naval ships, effectively retaking control of the coastal zone. On a naval patrol in the Black Sea, Ukrainian sailors are prepared to respond to a range of Russian threats, from sea mines to Shahed drones. The dangers are real, but the servicemen say theyre in a far stronger position than in the earlier days of the war. The course of their patrol route proves it: their small boat is able to navigate a stretch of Black Sea waters that once would have been within range of Russian ships. Thanks to our coastal forces and missile systems like the Neptune, the [Ukrainian] Navy has managed to push back the Russian Black Sea Fleet, one officer, Illya, told Current Time. The Ukrainian militarys General Staff reports that Russias Black Sea Fleet has suffered significant losses, ceding coastal territory to Ukraines much smaller fleet. The servicemen on patrol describe the tactics they use to hold that advantage as an asymmetrical campaign. We're not talking about a classic artillery duel with Black Sea Fleet ships -- that wouldnt make sense, Illya said. They do have a powerful fleet, but the realities of the war are changing. Now we focus more on mobility, stealth, sabotage groups, small, maneuverable boats, and fast drones. Anti-drone weapons are also key, like a US-made M134 machine gun operated by a serviceman named Serhiy. The six-barrel gun fires 3,000 to 6,000 rounds per minute and has successfully brought down Shahed drones headed for the Ukrainian coast, Serhiy said. Russias navy used its earlier access to the Ukrainian coast to plant sea mines intended to blockade Ukrainian ports. As the Ukrainian boat patrols a relatively safe strip of coastline, those mines still present a threat. Most of the time, we deal with Russian mines that were improperly installed, Illya said. They break loose from their anchors and drift toward our shores. At the beginning of the war, they mined parts of the Black Sea where civilian shipping takes place. If a boat like this hits one, nothing would be left of it. According to Ukrainian sources, Russias diminished strength in the Black Sea was apparent during a massive naval training exercise, dubbed July Storm, which was held on July 23-27. Russia deployed warships in the Barents, Caspian, and Baltic seas, but its Black Sea Fleet remained moored in Novorossiysk, east of Crimea. On board the patrol boat, sailors confirmed that the smaller fleets tactics have had outsized success. When [the Russians] saw that we could hit them with cruise missiles, they stopped trying to land troops or send ships close for reconnaissance. They realized we were ready to face off with them, Illya said. We showed our teeth, he added. Overnight Russian air attacks across Ukraine on July 28-29 included one of the deadliest single strikes of the three-year war, with more than a dozen killed in a prison in Zaporizhzhya. A hospital in the Dnipropetrovsk region was also hit, killing one pregnant woman as nine new mothers with babies fled. The attacks on 73 different sites came hours after US President Donald Trump pledged to cut a cease-fire deadline he had given Russia from 50 days to "10 or 12 days." Welcome to Wider Europe, RFE/RL's newsletter focusing on the key issues concerning the European Union, NATO, and other institutions and their relationships with the Western Balkans and Europe's Eastern neighborhoods. I'm RFE/RL Europe Editor Rikard Jozwiak, and this week I am drilling down on two major issues: Ukraines wobbly week and Icelands flirting with EU membership. Briefing #1: Questions Persist Despite Zelenskyy U-Turn What You Need To Know: The European Union has breathed a collective sigh of relief after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys swift U-turn this week over legislation that would have limited the independence of two key anti-corruption agencies. But questions and speculation remain about what triggered it, what it says about Kyivs ruling class and how it will affect the war-torn countrys chances of joining the bloc. On July 22, Zelenskyy signed a bill approved by parliament that placed the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) under the auspices of the Prosecutor General, a position appointed by the president. Within hours Ukrainians, despite Russian air strikes earlier in the day, took to the streets to protest the move, which critics said undermined the independence of the institutions in a country long known for deep-seated corruption. The response from Brussels was also immediate. Both European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the president of the European Council, Antonio Costa, called Zelenskyy, demanding an explanation and expressing strong concerns. European enlargement commissioner Marta Kos said in a post on X that independent bodies like NABU and SAPO are essential for Ukraines EU path. Within two days Zelenskyy had done an about-face, putting forward new legislation that would reverse course and ensure independence for NABU and SAPO. Deep Background: But the damage was already done. Speaking on condition of anonymity, one diplomat said Zelenskyy had managed to shoot himself in the foot for no apparent reason, as it gave ample ammunition to the many in the 27-nation bloc who claim that Kyiv is hopelessly corrupt. Another noted that it seemed that Ukraine had suddenly been transported back to the era of former President Viktor Yanukovych, who constantly battled to control the judiciary. Yanukovych was ousted from power in 2014 during the Maidan protests, sparked by his decision not to sign a political association and free trade deal with the EU, instead choosing closer ties with Moscow. Grumblings over this week's legislative rollercoaster were also directed against Zelenskyys head of office, Andriy Yermak, a powerful but deeply polarizing figure in European circles. Sources said questions persist about whether this was the real face of Zelenskyy and his entourage, given that many officials have long held fears about what they call his tendencies to want to centralize power. Zelenskyy admitted that demonstrations in the country, the first such show of defiance against the government since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, made him change his mind. EU officials saw the change as positive -- signaling a healthy and empowered civil society that also highlighted Zelenskyys democratic credentials -- in contrast to the considerable backsliding, for example, that has been seen recently in Georgia. Drilling Down It appears as though pressure from Brussels may have also helped Zelenskyy's decision. Everything was on the table, admits one official, and the bloc made that known. That would mean freezing some of the billions of euros in funds that the EU provides to Ukraine on a regular basis. A lot of this cash is conditioned on reform efforts, notably when it comes to the judiciary. One of the benchmarks for Ukraine to get visa liberalization to the bloc, back in 2017, was the setting up of NABU. While no one was openly suggesting the suspension of visa liberalization, as is currently being mooted with Tbilisi , the threat of looking into it was enough to rattle Kyiv. , the threat of looking into it was enough to rattle Kyiv. Then there was the delicate issue of de-coupling Ukraine from Moldova, allowing the latter to proceed alone in the EU accession process. That would be a heavy blow to Ukraine, given the pair have so far moved closer to membership hand in hand. in the EU accession process. That would be a heavy blow to Ukraine, given the pair have so far moved closer to membership hand in hand. The discussion about this started in Brussels in the spring, with Hungary reluctant to give Kyiv the green light to start accession talks. The idea was very much alive before the latest developments in Ukraine, and EU officials have indicated to RFE/RL that it may come up again in early September with a view to giving Moldovas ruling pro-EU government a boost before its crucial parliamentary election later that same month. The fact that Hungary appears to be unlikely to change its position on the issue ahead of its own national elections in April next year has made the issue even more pressing. Many EU member states believe that this decoupling would be unfair as it essentially would give in to Budapests blackmail. Yet some diplomats admitted that the latest events had weakened their argument, regardless of the subsequent Ukrainian backtracking. Highlighting the diverging paths, the same day Ukraine's parliament approved the controversial law, Greek police arrested the Moldovan oligarch Vladimir Plahotniuc, arguably the countrys most wanted man. the Moldovan oligarch Vladimir Plahotniuc, arguably the countrys most wanted man. A former politician and one of Moldova's richest people, Plahotniuc is allegedly the mastermind behind the theft of $1 billion from Chisinau a decade ago -- a charge he denies. At this moment, Moldovas and Ukraines efforts to fight corruption couldnt have contrasted more in the eyes of some in Brussels. Interestingly, there is a feeling in Brussels that the Ukrainian frustration with the Hungarian veto and the blocs inability to deal with it could have driven Zelenskyy to care less about EU hobby horses such as corruption. Rumors are swirling that several of the blocs leaders told him at a recent conference in Rome that he should be ready to accept that Moldova might move ahead of Ukraine. That, coupled with less focus on the issue from the new American administration, gave him an opportunity to deal with long-standing nuisances such as pesky anti-corruption officials, diplomatic sources said. He may have overplayed or revealed his hand. Either way, the EU has taken note. Briefing #2: Is Iceland The Next Country To Join The EU? What You Need To Know: When predicting which country would be the next to join the European Union, the smart money seems to be on Montenegro given that it has been negotiating for years and has advanced the furthest of all candidates. Others point to Albania, which is currently making great strides toward Brussels as the next member. There are also some who think that Moldova -- a reform-oriented and ambitious country in the blocs eastern neighborhood -- stands a decent chance of becoming the EU's 28th member state in the coming year. But the right answer may actually be Iceland. The Trump administration's overtures to annex the Danish territory of Greenland and the prospect of a trade war between its security provider, the United States, and its biggest trading partner, the European Union, have created unease on the North Atlantic island. The current Icelandic government, which came to power last year, has announced that a referendum on resuming accession talks with Brussels will be held before 2027. Polls suggest a majority would support restarting talks. Deep Background: The country has been here before. It was badly hit by the 2008 global financial crisis, when three of its major banks collapsed. EU membership -- and especially joining the eurozone -- was seen as a way out of the crisis, and negotiations with the bloc began in 2010. Talks were suspended three years later by a newly elected right-wing government. By then, the eurozone was itself engulfed in the same financial crisis, so joining the club and adopting its ailing common currency was no longer seen as a panacea. In those three years of accession talks, Reykjavik opened most of the 33 accession chapters and closed 11. By comparison, the current EU accession frontrunner, Montenegro, has managed to close a mere seven chapters in more than a decade of talks. Its not for nothing that EU officials believe that Iceland could wrap up the entire process in a couple of years if it was to resume its application -- which, according to the European Commission, remains valid. It helps, of course, that the country is part of the European Economic Area (EEA), which means that it -- together with other EEA members Norway and Liechtenstein -- is already applying the EUs internal market rules. When European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited the island last week, she was quick to point out that the issue of future EU membership is a sovereign decision that the people take here. So, its not a topic for me to comment on. But, she added, Iceland is familiar and integrated into the single market, we share values, we know each other very well, we are like-minded -- all this is an asset. Speaking on condition of anonymity, a European diplomat familiar with the topic was even more forthright. It would be good if a Western European country would join the EU, especially after Brexit, they said. It would show that the club truly is attractive. Integration would prove seamless, given that Iceland is richer than the EU average and -- with a population of 300,000 -- would be the smallest member state if it joined. Drilling Down While Brussels officially is trying to stay out of the Icelandic debate on membership, it is quietly doing everything to edge it closer. During her visit, von der Leyen promised a trade review to potentially upgrade the EEA agreement. She also struck a deal to protect critical infrastructure that is essential for Iceland, such as subsea cables, and started negotiations on a new security and defense partnership agreement, which would allow closer cooperation on cyber and hybrid threats. The partnership, expected to be ready by years end, is especially important for Iceland, which is acutely aware of the need for security cooperation, particularly as both Russia and China are becoming more active in the Arctic region. The United States has also rattled the country recently with talk of taking over Greenland , sparking debate there about rejoining the European Union after leaving the European Communities -- a precursor of todays EU -- back in 1985. , sparking debate there about rejoining the European Union after leaving the -- a precursor of todays EU -- back in 1985. While Washington hasnt made similar claims on Iceland, there is a certain nervousness, as the US provides for the countrys defense on behalf of NATO via a bilateral agreement signed in 1951. To this day, Iceland is the only NATO member without its own army and there are no imminent plans to create one. In 2006, the United States announced it would continue to provide for the islands defense but without forces being permanently stationed there. That policy still stands, and the former US air base in Keflavik remains a hub for NATO exercises. But it is the transatlantic trade tension that is really making Iceland twitchy. Reykjavik wants Brussels to consult them on the EU-US trade talks, but that is not something that EU officials can promise without full membership. And it is trade in general that could spark conflict during eventual membership negotiations, especially on agriculture and fisheries, which are key industries on the island. Those two items are excluded from the EEA for good reason. There is a fear that the EUs common agriculture policy would kill farming on the island by flooding it with cheap food products from other EU member states. Fishing is even more delicate. Reykjavik claims proudly that its management of fishing stocks is superior to Brussels. And it would be very reluctant to give up its exclusive rights to fishing within its 200-mile economic zone to Danish, Dutch, Irish, Spanish, or French fleets. Then there is commercial whaling, which is still permitted in Icelandic waters despite the EUs push for a global moratorium. The fact remains that most political parties in the Icelandic parliament are against EU membership. And while polls show that the population is keen to restart talks with Brussels, they are less sure that they actually want to become members. In Brussels, officials remain hopeful but see obstacles for a small yet fiercely independent nation to voluntarily give up its sovereignty. Its a long shot on their side, not ours, one said. Looking Ahead The Helsinki Final Act celebrates 50 years, and the anniversary is marked by a whole day of high-level speeches and panels in the Finnish capital on July 31. The agreement, signed by 35 nations including the Soviet Union and the United States back in 1975, was a high watermark of Cold War detente and paved the way for todays Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) That's all for this week! Feel free to reach out to me on any of these issues on X @RikardJozwiak, or on e-mail at jozwiakr@rferl.org. Until next time, Rikard Jozwiak If you enjoyed this briefing and don't want to miss the next edition, subscribe here. TEHRAN, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei rejected the claim that Iran had interfered in the ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas, according to a statement released by the Iranian Foreign Ministry early Tuesday. Baghaei's remarks came in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's comments a day earlier, in which Trump alleged that Iran had intervened in the latest round of talks aimed at ending the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. The negotiations, held in Qatar, were suspended last week with both Israeli and U.S. delegations walking out. Describing Trump's claim as "absolutely baseless," Baghaei said the accusation was an attempt to deflect U.S. responsibility for its complicity in what he called Israeli "crimes" against the Palestinians. Baghaei said that Hamas negotiators were capable of discerning and pursuing the interests of Gaza's population and did not need any third party's intervention in that regard. Baghaei reaffirmed Iran's position, shared by many countries, condemning what he called "genocide" in Gaza and supporting any initiative that would lead to an end to the suffering of the Palestinian people and the cessation of Israeli actions in the territory. Trump, in a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday, claimed that "I think they (Iran) got involved in this negotiation, telling Hamas and giving Hamas signals and orders." He didn't provide further details on the claim. Sonya McLean A man who left a victim requiring brain surgery following a one-punch assault that knocked the victim to the ground has been jailed for two and a half years. Richard Manson (48), formerly of Mellows Quay, Ushers Quay, Dublin 8, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing serious harm to Patrik Hudacek outside Pilsner Bar, also on Ushers Quay on December 3rd, 2023. Imposing sentence on Tuesday, Judge Martin Nolan said this was an unfortunate case in which the injured party sustained a serious injury. He said this was a one-punch attack and that it seems it was momentary stupidity on the part of Manson to involve himself, adding that the defendant had moved towards the trouble. The judge said he had taken into account the mitigation before imposing a four-year sentence with the final 18 months suspended on strict conditions. Garda Richard Pender told David Perry BL, prosecuting, that Mr Hudacek had been drinking in the bar with four other Slovakian men that evening. Staff later reported that the group had been singing loudly and they had been asked to quieten down, but otherwise they had not caused any trouble. Manson was in the bar with a group of men. These men seemed to be irritated by the Slovakian men, and at one point, one of that group left to make a phone call before returning with four other men. These men then sat together and continued to stare at the group that Mr Hudacek was in. Mr Hudacek and his friends left the bar, and they were followed by the other group. Before this group left the bar, one of the men armed himself with a steak knife from a cutlery basket. A second man went into the kitchen area of the bar and tried to grab a knife, but was prevented from doing so by staff. He then tried to also take a knife from the cutlery basket, but was again stopped by staff. One of the group, who is due to go for trial, approached the Slovakian men and asked, What is your problem? before he threw a punch. A second man then shouted, I will stab you to bits, you mad thing, while producing the knife he had taken from the bar. Mr Hudacek started to walk towards the group, but Manson punched him in the face, knocking him to the ground. He struck his head off the ground and was rendered unconscious. Gda Pender said the brawl then broke out between the group, that lasted about 90 seconds. All the men from Mr Hudaceks group were punched and kicked by the others. Manson left the scene but returned to the bar to meet with his partner and his dog. He walked past Mr Hudacek twice, who was still on the ground unconscious. Mr Hudacek was ultimately moved back into the bar, and an ambulance was called. The court played CCTV footage of the assault. Manson was arrested after gardai identified him on the footage. He was interviewed and claimed he had been acting in self-defence. He said he had followed a guy out of the bar who had a glass in his hand. He said he put his head down and swung out. Manson told gardai from the bottom of my heart, I genuinely hope he pulls through I pray for him every night. A victim impact report and medical reports were handed into court but not read into the record. Mr Perry said Mr Hudacek underwent brain surgery for five hours and spent five weeks in a medically induced coma. His wife travelled from Slovakia and stayed with him until he was transferred back to Slovakia by air ambulance. Gda Pender confirmed that it is most likely that Mr Hudacek will never work again. He confirmed that Manson had 12 previous convictions from Northern Ireland, including offences from October 2009 for firearm offences and conspiracy to rob. Gda Pender agreed with Seamus Clarke SC, defending, that Manson runs his own company as a bricklayer and works as a subcontractor. It was accepted that Manson had 20,000 in court to offer as a token of remorse. The court heard that Mr Hudaceks family are willing to accept this sum. Gda Pender accepted that Manson is very remorseful. Mr Clarke asked the court to accept that his client had pleaded guilty at an early point, while most of the other men have elected for trial. Counsel said Manson lived with his father in Scotland until he died when Manson was 14 years old, and he moved to Northern Ireland to be with his mother. He left that family home when he was 16 and began working as a bricklayer. There were numerous letters and testimonials which spoke of him being of good character. There was other documentation in the court to support the fact that Manson has a legitimate business and is contracted for future work. Mr Clarke said his client is a person who works hard and is a good father to his children. Judge Nolan directed that the 20,000 should be paid within one month. Addressing Manson directly, Judge Nolan said: It gives the court no joy to imprison you. He noted Manson had been in trouble earlier in his life, but had changed his life and become a pro-social member of society. The judge said the victim sustained a serious injury and told Manson, you must pay for what you did on the night in question and must suffer imprisonment for what you did. LIMA, July 28 (Xinhua) -- At least seven people were killed and one child was seriously injured after a pickup truck plunged off a cliff in Peru's central Junin region, local media reported Monday. The accident occurred Sunday in the remote area of Carpapata, located between the towns of Tarma and La Merced. The vehicle veered off the road and fell approximately 300 meters down a ravine. Emergency crews from the highway police responded to the scene. A child was rescued and is the sole survivor of the crash. The tragedy follows another fatal road accident last week in the same province, where a bus crash in the town of Talca left 18 people dead. According to Peru's National Road Safety Observatory under the Ministry of Transport and Communications, 1,215 people were killed and 22,846 injured in traffic accidents across Peru between January and May of this year. Longford County Council has facilitated a major expansion for US-based healthcare manufacturer Technimark, paving the way for the creation of up to 120 new jobs in Longford Town. The expansion follows the Councils strategic sale of the former Eircom site to support Technimarks continued growth in the region. A Section 183 notice to approve the site disposal was brought before a recent Council meeting on the proposal of Cllr Gerry Hagan and seconded by Cllr Kevin Hussey. Technimark currently operates a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility on the Ballinalee Road in Longford Town. Since acquiring the former Tool & Plastic premises in 2020, the Longford site has become one of the companys three European hubs, alongside operations in the UK and Germany. Now, with a 26 million investment underway to expand its manufacturing capacity and develop a European Innovation Centre, Technimarks purchase of the former Eircom site is critical to its next phase of growth. The site was purchased by Longford County Council from Eircom in May 2025, and the Technimarks move into this new facility could result in the creation of between 120 and 150 high-quality jobs. Speaking at the Council meeting, Michael Nevin, Head of Enterprise at Longford County Council, presented the Section 183 notice and recommended the sale. He noted, Technimark has an immediate and critical need for additional space. The senior management team in the US has expressed a strong desire to grow its successful Irish operation in Longford, provided a suitable site was available to facilitate this expansion. Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, This is a great news story for our county and a real vote of confidence in the potential of our county town. The creation of 120 new jobs will bring a significant economic boost to the area and new opportunities for local families. I must commend our elected members and council executive for playing a key role in facilitating this growth through the sale of the former Eircom site, thereby enabling the company to expand and invest locally. Its a great example of how strategic collaboration can deliver real and lasting benefits for our communities. Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cllr Garry Murtagh said, This is a major milestone for our community and showcases the positive impact of proactive local leadership. The creation of 120 new jobs will be a huge boost for Longford Town and county. I commend the work of the council and our elected members in supporting this expansion by making this site available- its a strong example of how we can help unlock growth and opportunity in rural Ireland. The annual auction in aid of the Lecarrow Benevolent Fund will take place outside Coffeys Pub, Lecarrow from 8 p.m. on Sunday, August 3rd. There will be live music in a marquee prior to the auction (from 6 p.m.) with approximately 250 auction lots anticipated. The auction will be conducted in a large marquee adjacent to the bar with full audio and visual displays throughout. Lots up for auction include livestock, ewe lambs, fuel vouchers, drinks vouchers, service vouchers, loads of turf, straw/hay and silage bales, agricultural products and much, much more. Chairperson of the Lecarrow Benevolent Fund committee, Billy Kelly, expressed his thanks to sponsors and supporters this week. We are looking forward to our auction on Sunday, August 3rd and would just like to say a big thank you to Sarah Jane and everyone at Coffeys for hosting us again this year. Thanks also to all our sponsors and supporters for the backing they have given us over the years, he said. The Lecarrow Benevolent Fund was devised when a small group of community-minded people came together in 2001 to assist groups and individuals in difficulty. Since then, the fund has raised and distributed over 700,000 for worthy causes. While a significant portion of the funds raised are distributed throughout the parish, Lecarrow Benevolent Fund has also reached out to a wider area, including Roscommon, Castlerea, Monksland, Dysart, Brideswell, Curraghboy, and as far away as Dublin. The fund has also paved the way for the purchase of life-saving equipment, including the installation and maintenance costs of defibrillators throughout the area. All support for this years auction at Coffeys Pub in Lecarrow would be gratefully appreciated. A calculated ban on sunbeds has been called for by Dr. Martin Daly TD who says that they are not cosmetic devices they are "cancer-causing machines." The Ballygar based doctor stressed that the science was clear and unforgiving. "Even a single sunbed session increases your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by 67%, basal cell carcinoma by 29%, and melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of cancer, by 20%," he warned. These figures should alarm anyone, but having spent years as a medical doctor, I can tell you those numbers stand out in any clinical field. Melanoma is not a slow-burning disease. Once it spreads, survival rates plummet, he stressed. In Ireland, were far too relaxed about sun damage, that mindset has to change. The dangers are clear, especially with sunbeds. But to act effectively, we need the public on board. Thats why the consultation launched by Minister Jennifer Murnane OConnor is not just welcome, its essential, said Deputy Daly. He added that any ban must have public buy-in if were serious about changing Irelands attitude to the sun once and for all. We cannot regulate or legislate in the dark. We need accurate data on the extent of sunbed use, both in homes and in commercial settings. Public consultation is the only responsible way forward, because it brings people with us, rather than pushing them away. According to the 2022 Healthy Ireland Survey, 18% of the Irish population report having used a sunbed at some point in their lives, with 3% using them either regularly or occasionally. What that means is that nearly one in five people in Ireland have increased their risk of developing skin cancer, some without even realising it. While its difficult to put an exact figure on it, treating these sunbed related cancers undoubtedly carries a significant cost to the taxpayer. We have a responsibility to legislate based on evidence, and the evidence could not be clearer. Allowing sunbeds to remain legal in Ireland, in full knowledge of the damage they cause, is a failure of public health policy. Concluding Dr. Daly TD stated: Let me be absolutely clear, this ban must happen. Not in five years. Not in ten. It must happen now. But we must do it right, with public understanding, with cultural awareness, and with a full grasp of the scale of the problem. This is about saving lives, plain and simple. And if were serious about that, we must start by banning sunbeds once and for all. Disappointment has been expressed after a sign pointing to Palestine was taken from The Demesne in Castlerea. The sign, which had also been covered with Israeli flags in previous months, was taken in recent days. The incident has been described as targeted, as the sign pointing to Palestine was the only one taken from the signpost, with other cities from around the globe remaining untouched. How the signpost stood in The Demesne before the Palestine sign was stolen. Christian Pye told the Roscommon Herald: Last week the sign was up, and my sister had noticed over the last couple of months that someone had been putting up sticky Israeli flags all over the place. On Monday Christian found the sign was missing when checking for it. A Facebook post highlighting the issue read, Real upsetting to see someone took down the Palestine post. Shame on you. Castlerea Towns Trust and the gardai have been made aware of the issue. HUGG, Irelands national suicide bereavement organisation, has launched a support group in Athlone. HUGG is dedicated to supporting adults bereaved by suicide. It provides free practical information and emotional support after a suicide occurs through its informative website, telephone support line, public events, and nationwide suicide bereavement support groups. The HUGG vision is an Ireland where those bereaved by suicide find support, hope and are free from stigma. The organisation has now launched a dedicated suicide bereavement support group in Athlone. The monthly support group meets on a Tuesday 7.30pm to 9.30pm and is facilitated by trained volunteers with a lived experience of suicide loss. Cathriona Lacey, reflecting on why she trained as a HUGG Support Group volunteer, stated HUGG provided me with a safe space where I didnt have to explain, pretend, or feel alone in my grief. Sitting with others who truly understand gave me words when I had none and reassured me that my emotions were normal, even when nothing about suicide loss feels normal. "HUGG offered me a space free of judgment, where I could speak openly, cry, or simply sit in silence. I cant change what happened to my brother, but I can help others find the support I wish I had. For every person who dies by suicide, up to 135 people are affected. In addition to grieving the loss of a loved one, a loss through suicide leaves many with heavy invisible burdens to carry, including unanswered questions and feelings which can include regret, self-blame, guilt, shame, and self-stigma. Suicide grief can feel incredibly isolating. Commenting on the launch of HUGG Athlone, Marie McKeon, HUGG Groups Manager said, Sharing compassionate conversations with others who are bereaved by suicide can bring comfort, support, and opportunities to learn ways of coping. HUGG Athlone Support Group is ideally located on the edge of Athlone town centre. We hope it will serve the local community of Athlone town and surrounding towns and villages including those living in Roscommon town, as well as parts of southern Longford such as Lanesborough and Ballymahon and eastern Galway, such as Ballinasloe town. To join HUGG Athlone, Suicide Bereavement Support Group, visit www.HUGG.ie or email support@HUGG.ie or call 01 513 4048 (monitored answering machine) and a member of the HUGG team will be in touch. Once registered, you can attend the support group as often or as little as you wish. A new book written by Longford native and long-time Irish Defence Forces member Hugh Farrell delves into The Glorious 17th Infantry Battalion, which served in various different iterations from 1922 until disbandment in 2005. The book details the history of the 17th Infantry Battalion and Reserve Defence Forces in County Roscommon, along with counties Leitrim, Longford and West Cavan, where both their triumphs are tragedies are highlighted. Histories of the Battalions six companies, including C Company, Strokestown and D Company, Roscommon Town are included, featuring detailed accounts of personnel, training, competitions along with many other aspects of the respective companies. Over 300 pictures are featured in the book, along with a special chapter remembering Men from the Midlands who took part in the Siege of Jadotville. May of those who soldiered at Jadotville served time at the 17th Battalion, one of them being the late Michael Tighe from Elphin. Author Hugh Farrell served in the Defence Forces in Longford and knew many in the 17th Infantry Battalion. He is one of Longfords most dedicated local historians and is a former chairperson of County Longford Historical Society. He is currently the chair of the Peter Keenan Branch of the ONE. The Glorious 17th Infantry Battalion can be purchased in Newsround, Roscommon Town and in Strokestown. ANKARA, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Turkish authorities have detained 77 suspects in operations over the past two weeks over their alleged links to the Gulen movement, Turkiye's Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said Tuesday. The operations were conducted across 26 provinces, including Antalya, Aydin, Gaziantep, Istanbul, Izmir and Samsun, Yerlikaya said on the social media platform X, without specifying the time frame of the operations. Of those detained, 56 have been formally arrested, and 21 suspects remain under judicial investigation, he said. Security forces also seized a significant number of organizational documents and digital materials during the raids, Yerlikaya added. The suspects are accused of spreading the group's propaganda on social media, maintaining active roles in the group's current structure, communicating with other members via payphones, and providing financial support to organizations affiliated with the group, he explained. The Turkish government classifies the Gulen movement as a terrorist organization and holds it responsible for a coup attempt in July 2016, in which more than 250 people were killed. The movement was led by Turkish cleric Fethullah Gulen, who lived in the United States from 1999 until his death in 2024. Following the failed coup, the Turkish authorities have arrested thousands of suspects accused of links to the movement. CM Nitish Kumar expresses deep condolences on death of Kanwariyas in a road accident in Deoghar The Chief Minister has prayed to God to give strength to the bereaved families to bear patience in this hour of grief. CM Nitish Kumar expresses deep condolences on death of Kanwariyas in a road accident in Deoghar Kanwariyas road accident Deoghar news: The Chief Minister expressed deep condolences on the death of Kanwariyas in a road accident in Deoghar Advertisement Instructed to provide an ex-gratia grant of Rs 2 lakh each from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund to the bereaved family of each deceased of Bihar Patna 29 July 2025: - Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has expressed deep condolences on the death of devotees in a collision between a bus full of Kanwariyas and a truck near Jamunia in Mohanpur block of Deoghar district of Jharkhand state. The Chief Minister has described this incident as very sad. The Chief Minister has directed to provide an ex-gratia grant of Rs 2 lakh each from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund to the bereaved family of the deceased of Bihar. The Chief Minister has wished for the speedy recovery of the people injured in this accident. Advertisement The Chief Minister has prayed to God to give strength to the bereaved families to bear patience in this hour of grief. (For more news apart from CM Nitish Kumar expresses deep condolences on death of Kanwariyas in a road accident in Deoghar, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Punjab Government Hosts First Business Blasters Expo at IIT Ropar to Showcase Student Ventures Bains emphasized that India's growth depends on fostering business Punjab Government Hosts First Business Blasters Expo at IIT Ropar to Showcase Student Ventures The Punjab government will host the first Business Blasters Expo at IIT Ropar, where government school students from classes 11 and 12 will showcase their innovative ventures and pitch their ideas in a Shark Tank-style session to a panel of investors, entrepreneurs, and incubators, the Indian Express reported citing Harjot Singh Bains, Minister of School Education. Advertisement according to the report, speaking at a press conference in Chandigarh, Bains explained that the expo aims to foster funding, incubation, and industry partnerships for scalable student ventures while encouraging school-based entrepreneurship. Around 40 teams will present their products, with 18,492 business ideas developed by students. The government has provided Rs 16,000 seed funding to over 7,000 teams to help launch their business ideas under the guidance of teachers and mentors. The expos goal is to connect students with market opportunities and real customers to generate revenue and profit. Bains highlighted successful student ventures, such as a team from Government Girls Senior Secondary School, Roopnagar, selling resin-based coasters, keychains, and candle molds. Other projects include a rechargeable electric bicycle from Government Senior Secondary School, Pathankot, a herbal shampoo from Bathinda, a self-defense stick with LED and shock points from Ferozepur, and preservative-free chocolates from Moga, which have already earned over Rs 4,000 in profit. Advertisement Bains emphasized that Indias growth depends on fostering business and economic development, and the Punjab government is committed to nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset from the school level, the report said. (For more news apart from Operation Sindoor Debate Begins in Lok Sabha After Multiple Adjournments, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Bullock cart races: "We have a deep connection with bullocks," says Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann "We are reviving the forgotten heritage of villages." Bullock cart races: "We have a deep connection with bullocks," says Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Latest News: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann visited the village of Mahima Singh Wala in Ludhiana on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, where a felicitation ceremony was organized to celebrate the revival of bullock cart races. Advertisement On this occasion, the Chief Minister said that the traditional games of Kila Raipur have been taking place since 1933, and therefore, Who are we to stop them? He emphasized that his government is the first to preserve heritage and buy private institutions, while previous governments used to show public institutions as loss-making and sell them off. The Chief Minister remarked that anyone who has seen bullock cart races on black-and-white television can understand the joy of their return. Taking a dig at drug-related activities, he said that those who build palaces with money earned through drugs and then destroy them like termites will not be spared. He added that such people are now being caught, and when action is taken, some individuals stand in their support. Sarcastically, the Chief Minister said, We are insects and animals; they are the real humans. Advertisement On this occasion, Punjab Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian said that now, under traditional games, dog and pigeon competitions will also be allowed, but there will be no place for drugs in these events. He warned the associated organizations to monitor such activities themselves and ensure that nothing related to drugs is promoted during these gatherings. The love and respect of people regarding the decision to restart the bullock cart race, LIVE from the village Mahima Singh Wala in Ludhian.....We are reviving the forgotten heritage of villages. The love and respect of people regarding the decision to restart the bullock cart race, LIVE from the village Mahima Singh Wala in Ludhiana," CM posted on X. (For more news apart from Bullock cart races: "We have a deep connection with bullocks," says Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Leaders React to HM Amit Shah's Speech on Operation Sindoor Debate in Monsoon Session 2025 Pakistan is Congress's mistake. If they had not accepted partition, there would have been no Pakistan today. Leaders React to HM Amit Shahs Speech on Operation Sindoor Debate in Monsoon Session 2025 Leaders Reaction on Amit Shahs Speech on Operation Sindoor Debate today latest news: Union Home Minister Amit Shah, on Tuesday, delivered a lengthy speech in the Lok Sabha during the debate on Operation Sindoor, covering not only the recent anti-terror operation but also Operation Mahadev and criticizing the past failures of the Congress government. Advertisement He held Jawaharlal Nehru responsible for China being a member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) instead of India. The news of the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack being killed should have sparked a wave of joy in the Opposition as well, but their faces look as if theyve been smeared with ink, Shah said. He also accused the Congress of weakening Indias counter-terrorism framework. Atal Ji's government brought the POTA law against terrorism, but Congress repealed it in December 2004 for vote-bank politics. After that, a series of terrorist attacks began, which continued throughout the UPA era. Advertisement Shah further blamed Congress for the India-Pakistan partition, saying, Pakistan is Congress's mistake. If they had not accepted partition, there would have been no Pakistan today. Opposition Reacts Sharply DMK MP K. Kanimozhi, speaking to the media, criticized the Home Minister, saying, He was only trying to shift blame onto someone else and focused on history rather than answering present concerns. There was no constructive discussion or clarity on who takes responsibility for the Pahalgam attack. Advertisement Congress MP Mallu Ravi backed Priyanka Gandhi's strong response in Parliament, Priyanka Gandhi gave a befitting reply to the Home Minister, Defence Minister, and others. This is the failure of the current government. During the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, the Home Minister resigned. Why is no one taking responsibility now? This is an irresponsible government. Even in the face of tragedy, they are trying to divide people on religious lines. Congress MP Jebi Mather said, The Home Minister should learn the right lesson. Coming from a party that played no role in Indias freedom struggle, they keep rewriting history. We wont be surprised if they change the textbooks too. The sacrifices of Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi, and others cannot be ignored. TMC MP Kirti Azad raised questions, How did terrorists manage to infiltrate 200 km inside our country to reach Pahalgam? How do we believe that those killed in Operation Mahadev are the same terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack? Advertisement Congress MP Manickam Tagore slammed Amit Shah for avoiding the present, The discussion was about Pahalgam. We all credit our soldiers for Operation Sindoor's success, but the Home Minister is stuck in the past 1947, 1948, 1956. We are asking who is responsible for Pahalgam, not for partition. Will Nehru be blamed for this too? Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar, however, defended Shahs remarks, It is a historical fact that Congress accepted partition, which led to Pakistan's creation. That remains a black spot in Indian history, and Congress is solely responsible. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi criticized Shah for failing to accept moral responsibility, In his one-and-a-half-hour speech, the Home Minister didnt say a single word about the failure of his department. LG Manoj Sinha showed more courage by admitting there was a security lapse. Pahalgam didnt happen because of Nehru or the UPAit happened due to the Home Minister's failure. He added, The Home Minister tried to hide behind the bravery of our armed forces instead of practicing Rajdharma. He should have taken moral responsibility. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, in her Lok Sabha speech, said, The Union Home Minister spoke about what Nehru and Indira Gandhi did. He even spoke about my mother's tears. But he never answered why the ceasefire was announced. (For more news apart from Leaders React to HM Amit Shahs Speech on Operation Sindoor Debate in Monsoon Session 2025, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) All Three Terrorists Involved in Baisaran Valley Attack Eliminated: Amit Shah Shah stated that all three terrorists were identified by individuals who had been detained earlier. All Three Terrorists Involved in Baisaran Valley Attack Eliminated: Amit Shah Operation Sindoor Debate Loksabha Latest News: Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in his address to the Lok Sabha on Tuesday regarding Operation Sindoor, condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and confirmed that three terrorists involved in the attack were neutralized during Operation Mahadev, yesterd. Advertisement Shah stated that all three terrorists were identified by individuals who had been detained earlier. Speaking on Operation Sindoor, he said, The innocent tourists were brutally killed in Pahalgam in front of their family members after being asked about their religion. I strongly condemn this heinous attack. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in this brutal act. He further added, In retaliation to Operation Sindoor, Pakistan fired upon our civilian areas. Several civilians were affected in this attack. Gurdwaras and temples were also destroyed. I extend my sympathies to all those affected. Advertisement The Union Home Minister confirmed that in a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and Jammu & Kashmir Police successfully neutralized the three terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack. All three terroristsSuleman, Afghan, and Jibranwere killed in yesterdays operation. Those who had been supplying food to them were detained earlier. After the terrorists bodies were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by the individuals in custody, Shah said. Suleman was an A-category commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was also an A-category Lashkar terrorist, and Jibran was similarly an A-grade terrorist. All three were responsible for the killings in the Baisaran Valley, Shah added. Advertisement These terrorists have been eliminated. They will not be able to break our spirit, Shah further said. (For more news apart from All Three Terrorists Involved in Baisaran Valley Attack Eliminated: Amit Shah, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Mallikarjun Kharge Asks Amit Shah To Vacate Post If Responsible For National Security Lapse Mallikarjun Kharge also slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not responding to letters addressed to him Mallikarjun Kharge Asks Amit Shah To Vacate Post If Responsible For National Security Lapse Operation Sindoor Debate Monsoon session 2025 latest news; Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, paid tribute to those killed in the Pahalgam terror attack and condemned both the attack and Pakistan for its continued support to terrorism. He made these remarks while speaking in the Rajya Sabha today during the discussion on Operation Sindoor. Advertisement "I pay my tributes to those who were killed in the barbaric terrorist attack in Pahalgam. I also offer my deep condolences to their families. I would like to say mehendi waale haathon ne pati ki laash uthai hai, bebas rote bachhon ne papa ki jaan ganwai hai, ashru bhare lachaar khadi bebas naari ko dekha hai, Pahalgam ghaati mein humne apno ko marte dekha hai," Kharge said. He added, "Along with the entire country and this House, I condemn the barbaric attack in Pahalgam and the continuous support to terrorists by Pakistan. We had condemned Pakistan earlier, we condemn them today, and if this continues tomorrow, we will continue to condemn them. But here, we condemn them, and you attend their feasts and hug them." Mallikarjun Kharge also slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not responding to letters addressed to him, saying that "people would one day tear down your arrogance." Advertisement "Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi and I had written to the Prime Minister and demanded a special session of Parliament, but there was no response to the letter... Our letters are dumped in the waste box. They dont even read them. If you have such arrogance, then one day the people who would tear down that arrogance will come. This is not good. You do not have the time to write even a sentence or two. But you have the time to cling to people." Kharge, in his speech, questioned Home Minister Amit Shah's accountability and asked him to vacate his post if he was responsible for the national security lapse. "...Uri and Pathankot terrorist attacks in 2016, Pulwama in 2019, and now Pahalgam in 2025 all these incidents make it clear that there is a recurring intelligence failure and failure in national security... I would like to ask the Home Minister who is responsible for this? What did you do to rectify the mistake? If you are responsible, vacate your post. If not, then what action is the Prime Minister taking?" Advertisement He further criticized the narrative that Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha should take full responsibility for the Pahalgam attack. "On 14th July 2025, J&K LG Manoj Sinha admitted that the Pahalgam terror attack was undoubtedly a security failure. He said, 'I take full responsibility for the incident, which was undoubtedly a security lapse.' But the Home Minister should take responsibility not the Lieutenant Governor," Kharge asserted. (For more news apart from Mallikarjun Kharge Asks Amit Shah To Vacate Post If Responsible For National Security Lapse, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) US Vice President Tried to Reach Out to Me 34 Times: PM Modi on Operation Sindoor Terrorists and their masters are shedding tears in Pakistanand watching them, some people are crying here as well. US Vice President Tried to Reach Out to Me 34 Times: PM Modi on Operation Sindoor PM Modi on Operation Sindoor latest News: During a special discussion in the Lok Sabha on Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed that on the night of May 9, the Vice President of the United States attempted to contact him multiple times to issue a warning of a major attack from Pakistan. Advertisement On the night of May 9, the US Vice President tried to reach out to me 34 times, but I was in back-to-back meetings with the armed forces. When I finally returned the call, he warned me of a big attack from Pakistan, said PM Modi. Modi said he assured the US Vice President that India would give a befitting response to any aggression. He said that no leader of any country asked India to stop the operation. Advertisement The Prime Minister sharply criticized the Congress party, accusing it of aligning with Pakistan's narrative. India is becoming self-reliant, but Congress is now dependent on Pakistan for issues. They have to import their issues from Pakistan, he said. Modi also alleged that Congress and its allies have, unfortunately become spokespersons of Pakistani propaganda. Advertisement He revisited the time when the Indian armed forces conducted surgical strikes, stating that instead of supporting the military, Congress demanded proof. When Indian armed forces carried out surgical strikes, Congress asked for evidence, said PM Modi, pointing at what he called the oppositions longstanding mistrust of the armed forces. He also condemned Congress for not fully acknowledging the Kargil victory, stating, It has been a habit with Congress to have a negative approach towards our armed forces. To this day, they have not wholeheartedly embraced the Kargil win. Advertisement In a veiled swipe at the opposition, Modi said, Terrorists and their masters are shedding tears in Pakistanand watching them, some people are crying here as well. On the military front, PM Modi lauded Indias defensive capabilities and said that Indias air defence systems are being recognized globally. Pakistan launched 1,000 missiles and drones at India, but our armed forces destroyed them mid-air. The world is now talking about the strength of Indias air defence systems, he said. RIO DE JANEIRO, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Monday urged the United States to reconsider the proposed 50 percent tariffs on its goods set to take effect on Aug. 1, rejecting using the country's critical minerals as bargaining chips in trade negotiations. Speaking at the inauguration of a thermoelectric plant in southeastern Rio de Janeiro state, Lula criticized the tariffs as "abrupt and unilateral," and dismissed Washington's suggestion that Brazil's rare earth minerals be included in trade negotiations. Lula urged the United States to choose "the path of dialogue," noting "that's what civilized nations do." He added that the mineral resources belong to the Brazilian people, "and the people must have the right to enjoy the wealth they can generate. It's that simple." Noting that only 30 percent of Brazil's mineral potential has been explored, Lula announced the creation of a commission to carry out a comprehensive survey of the country's untapped mineral resources. "We will allow companies to investigate, but under our control," he said, adding that firms authorized to explore the resources will need government authorization to sell them or transfer rights to the areas where the minerals are located. J&K: Rahul Gandhi to Sponsor Education of 22 Children Affected by Pak Shelling "We have submitted the list of 22 such children to him. J&K: Rahul Gandhi to Sponsor Education of 22 Children Affected by Pak Shelling Rahul Gandhi Latest News: Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has pledged to sponsor the education of 22 children who lost one or both parents in the recent Pakistani shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch district during Operation Sindoor, PTI reported citing a party leader. Advertisement Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hameed Karra, who is currently on a three-day visit to Rajouri, shared the update with reporters on Monday night. A significant number of civilians were killed or injured, and properties were damaged in the shelling that occurred in Poonch and Rajouri between May 7 and 10, Karra said. Following the incident, Rahul Gandhi visited Poonch and met with the grieving families. He instructed us to compile a list of school-going children who lost one or both parentsparticularly the primary earners. We have submitted the list of 22 such children to him. (For more news apart from J&K: Rahul Gandhi to Sponsor Education of 22 Children Affected by Pak Shelling, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Punjab Weather Updates: IMD Chandigarh Issues Yellow Alerts for Several Districts The weather is expected to remain cool throughout the week. Punjab Weather Updates: IMD Chandigarh Issues Yellow Alerts for Several Districts Punjab Weather Updates Today The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Chandigarh, has issued yellow alerts for four districts of Punjab for today, July 29, warning of heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, squalls, and other adverse weather conditions. Advertisement The state weather station has placed the following four districts under a yellow alert: Pathankot, Hoshiarpur, Rupnagar, and Fatehgarh Sahib. No alerts have been issued for the remaining districts in the general forecast for today. The weather is expected to remain cool throughout the week. Advertisement Weather Observed in the Past 24 Hours: In the past 24 hours, there has been a decrease of 1.2C in the average minimum temperature, which remains near normal. The lowest minimum temperature in the state was 23.7C, recorded at Salern (AWS), Hoshiarpur, while Gurdaspur (AMFU) received the highest rainfall in the state at 96.7 mm. Advertisement (For more news apart from Punjab Weather Updates: IMD Chandigarh Issues Yellow Alerts for Several Districts, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) UN Chief Antonio Guterres Calls Gaza Crisis A Cascade of Catastrophes, Urges Immediate Ceasefire We must act before it is too late, Guterres urged. UN Chief Antonio Guterres Calls Gaza Crisis A Cascade of Catastrophes, Urges Immediate Ceasefire UN Chief Antonio Guterres on Gaza Latest News: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has described the ongoing destruction in Gaza as a cascade of catastrophes and said the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has reached a breaking point, ANI reported, citing UN News. Advertisement Speaking at the international conference on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict held in New York, Guterres stated that the situation has moved beyond a crisis it represents the collapse of peace efforts. The peace process has been characterized by talk, but no tangible results for too long, he said. For decades, Middle East diplomacy has been far more process than peace. Words, speeches, and declarations may not have much meaning to those on the ground. They have seen it before. They have heard it before. Meanwhile, destruction and annexation bulldoze ahead. He called for renewed international support for a two-state solution. Advertisement What is the alternative? A one-state reality where Palestinians are denied equal rights and forced to live under perpetual occupation and inequality? A one-state reality where Palestinians are expelled from their land? That is not peace. That is not justice. And that is not acceptable, Guterres emphasized. According to the ANI report, citing UN News, Guterres reaffirmed his support for the creation of two independent and democratic states Israel and Palestine with Jerusalem as their shared capital. However, he warned that this vision was slipping further out of reach. The truth is we are at a breaking point, he stated. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has endured for generations defying hopes, diplomacy, countless resolutions, and international law. Advertisement While condemning the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, Guterres also criticized the scale of Israels military response. Gaza has descended into a cascade of catastrophes tens of thousands dead, virtually the entire population displaced many times over, and the shadow of starvation looming over everyone, he said. He called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and full humanitarian access to Gaza. Advertisement We must act before it is too late, Guterres urged. The three-day conference, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia, was held under a UN General Assembly mandate. It brought together global leaders, diplomats, and peace advocates to discuss ways to restart peace talks, rebuild trust, and respond to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. (For more news apart from UN Chief Antonio Guterres Calls Gaza Crisis A Cascade of Catastrophes, Urges Immediate Ceasefire , stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Dambovita Fresh Water 2025 The event is organized by the initiator partners of the Dambovita Fresh Water program Dambovita Fresh Water 2025 Calin Cotoiu, 29.07.2025, 14:00 In mid-March, on the occasion of the International Rivers Day, the spring intervention dedicated to the revitalization of the Dambovita River began, organized by the initiator partners of the Dambovita Fresh Water program. The event is part of the Dambovita Fresh Water 2025 program, which aims to transform the river into an urban resource of ecological, cultural and social value, essential for the sustainable development of the city and for the well-being of citizens. And since the program is organized by the Ivan Patzaichin Association Mila 23 and Nod Makerspace, Teodor Frolu, Vice President of the Ivan Patzaichin Association Mila 23 and Tamina Lolev, President of Nod Makerspace, told us the story of this project. Teodor Frolu, vice president of the Ivan Patzaichin Association Mila 23, explained: The story began in 2015, when, at the National Library, a first intervention was made in which the riverbank, on a section of several hundred meters, was treated differently, with the creation of stairs to the water, with pontoons during the summer. All that first intervention was made by the Ivan Patzaichin Association, together with the City Hall of the Capital. It was a first sign of what the Dambovita River can become. After that, there were various events, meetings, conferences, we brought examples from other European capitals, and we started collaborating in the working group at the City Hall of the Capital, together with all the authorities that have a piece of Dambovita each. We learned from our interlocutor that, in fact, this is also one of the great challenges of revitalizing the Dambovita riverside area, the fact that the river has around 14 administrative entities that are responsible for a small part of the entire major infrastructure of Bucharest. We, together with Nod Makerspace, have initiated in the last 5 years, after the pandemic, Dambovita Delivery, an event that takes place every autumn during Sustainable Development Week, somewhere in the Mihai Bravu area, where the Nod Makerspace hub is. Our role with Dambovita Fresh Water is, this year, to bring Dambovita closer to the residents of the Capital. So we set out to have five pontoons that we will rehabilitate, on which we will have activities all summer, with boats, with space arrangements around these places, now abandoned or simply ignored by the city. And citizens have become increasingly close to these events, so that, if there were a few thousand visitors at the Dambovita Delivery event in 2022, last year the number of visitors exceeded 15-20,000 during the 2 days of the event, as Teodor Frolu told us. Tamina Lolev, architect and president of the Nod Maker Space Association, added: We have been on the Dambovita riverbank for 10 years with Nod Makerspace, with this cultural and creative hub, and for 5 years we started doing activities on the waterfront and all kinds of projects. We fell in love with water, also inspired by Ivan Patzaichin and his team. And slowly, slowly, we realized that this great unused resource of the city actually has fantastic potential, and it is a matter of time and the alignment of the actors around Dambovita for this Dambovita to develop healthily in the future. When I say actors, I mean all parts of society, there are actually several institutions that care about the boulevard, the sidewalks, the water surface, the green spaces. We created this program, Dambovita Fresh Water for several objectives: so that the people and residents of Bucharest get closer to the river, start to have a positive perception of it this, because it actually contains life, even if it doesnt seem like it. There are many types of vegetation that grow around the river, there are all kinds of fish, insects, animals, birds, so in reality it has life. And in the future we want this life to multiply and be increasingly rich, so that in 5-10 years we can consider that Dambovita Delivery becomes this green-blue corridor that also cools the city. We learned that 100 volunteers participated in the event in March this year, which is a lot for a greening action, proving the increasing involvement of people in such initiatives. As for the future plans, they are many: Tamina Lolev: So, on April 12, in the area called United Nations, at the unused concrete pier, we will place two floating pontoons and a waste barrier, and we will celebrate, within the framework of Open Streets, this access point to the water. Later, on June 6-8, in the Timpuri Noi area, we will hold the Dambovita Summer Delivery, meaning that we will also celebrate access to the water, the concrete pier at Timpuri Noi will be refurbished and, on land, the embankment will be pedestrianized, and we will have activities on water and on land, followed by the Dambovita Autumn Delivery on September 20-21, namely At the Opera House, a 2-day, weekend event, similar, with new access to the waters in the Opera area, with watercraft activities and artistic and educational activities on land. The Ivan Patzaichin Mila 23 Association is named after a great Romanian athlete, a multiple Olympic medalist canoeist. The association has initiated a rowing boat festival and competitions on Romanian waterways, and has been involved in projects promoting natural and cultural attractions and local development, such as the one targeting Dambovita, the river that runs through the Romanian capital. Fiscal measures and budget deficit Romania's budget deficit rose to 3.68% of the GDP after the first six months of this year Guvernul Bolojan pregateste un nou pachet de masuri pentru a reduce deficitul / Foto: gov.ro Roxana Vasile, 29.07.2025, 14:00 Romanias budget deficit rose to 3.68% of the GDP after the first six months of this year, from 3.39% at the end of May, reaching almost 70 billion lei (equivalent to 14 billion euros), according to data published by the Ministry of Finance. Last year, the budget deficit was lower in the same period almost 64 billion lei, or 3.62% of the GDP. In the first half of 2025, revenues totalled about 310 billion lei, an increase of 12.7 percent. But expenditures also increased by more than 380 billion lei, which is more than 12 percent. The countrys budget for this year is based on a deficit of 7% of the GDP, given that Romania ended the previous year with a deficit of 9.3%, the highest in the European Union, according to Eurostat. The Ministry of Finance in Bucharest, which uses a different calculation formula than the EU, announced in 2024 a difference between expenditure and revenue of 8.65% of the GDP. However, regardless of how it is calculated, everyone agrees that this economic indicator is far too high! That is why, having just taken office at the end of June, the broad coalition government of PSD-PNL-USR-UDMR has proposed to gradually reduce the deficit through a series of fiscal reforms. Therefore, starting August 1, Romania will implement the measures included in the first fiscal austerity package, for which the Government assumed responsibility in Parliament. VAT rates will increase, including those for basic foodstuffs, medicines, and heating. Excise duties on alcohol, tobacco, and fuel will increase, and a health insurance contribution will be introduced for pensions exceeding 3,000 lei (approximately 600 euros). In education, the number of teaching hours will increase, and the school scholarship system will be modified by reducing the number of beneficiaries. Salaries and pensions are frozen. The second package of measures is expected to focus on reforming state-owned companies, often accused of reckless spending of public money, as well as reforming local public administrations. The government also wants measures aimed at strengthening the tax authorities capacity to collect revenue for the state budget and to streamline efforts to combat tax fraud and evasion. Last but not least, a package of measures is being considered to reform the much-criticized special pension system currently enjoyed by certain professional categories, including magistrates, military personnel, and police officers. The reform of this system is key to unlocking hundreds of millions of euros from the PNRR. All these tax measures are obviously causing some discontent. The first ones to be affected are ordinary Romanians, who, according to the unions, will have to deal with a drastic drop in their standard of living starting August 1. The wave of protests that has already begun in many sectors of activity across almost the entire country is likely to grow in intensity, and strikes, including an all-out strike, cannot be ruled out in early autumn. (MI) Forbo reported first half profit of 33.4 million Swiss francs compared to 48.4 million Swiss francs, prior year. Operating profit before depreciation and amortization or EBITDA was 67.6 million Swiss francs, corresponding to a decline of 22.1%. First half net sales were 546.9 million Swiss francs, down 1.5% in local currencies and 4.1% in the reporting currency, entirely due to lower volumes. Assuming no further deterioration in the geopolitical or economic environment in the second half of 2025, Forbo expects a slight year-on-year decline in net sales in local currencies for the full financial year. Forbo projects a slightly improved profit in the second half of 2025 compared to the first half. For the full year 2025, the company expects a significant decline in profit versus the prior year. For more earnings news, earnings calendar, and earnings for stocks, visit rttnews.com. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News ISLAMABAD, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan's Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said on Tuesday that the country has kicked off an initiative to expand and modernize national shipping fleet as part of efforts to strengthen maritime infrastructure of the South Asian country. "This initiative reflects our broader vision to modernize the maritime sector, boost operational efficiency, and introduce advanced technologies across all institutions," the minister said while chairing a high-level meeting here. He said that the initiative was designed not only to cut sea freight bills and conserve foreign exchange, but also to support climate-smart maritime practices by strengthening a cleaner, more efficient domestic fleet. Chaudhry said that the expansion and modernization will focus on incorporating greener technologies and energy-efficient vessels into the state-owned fleet. Clariant AG (CLN.SW, CLZNY), a Swiss specialty chemicals company, on Tuesday announced that it has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Shanghai Boiler Works, a subsidiary of Shanghai Electric Group Co., Ltd (SIELY, 601727.SS), to jointly drive innovation in sustainable energy solutions in China. The partnership agreement was officially signed last week at the Clariant Innovation Center in Frankfurt, Germany. Under the agreement, Shanghai Electric's expertise in process engineering and plant design will be combined with Clariant's advanced catalyst technologies. The partnership will cover joint research and development, engineering design services, supply of chemical equipment, and turnkey project solutions. Clariant will contribute its extensive know-how and high-performance catalysts for the production of green methanol, e-methanol, green ammonia, sustainable aviation fuel, and gas purification. The agreement follows their successful collaboration on a biomass-to-green methanol project in Taonan, Jilin Province. In the project's first phase, the chemical company supplied its MegaMax catalysts and offered on-site technical support for the startup of a 50,000 tons-per-year green methanol plant. The second phase is set to begin production in 2027 and will expand capacity to 200,000 tons of green methanol and 10,000 tons of sustainable aviation fuel annually. On Monday, Clariant closed trading, 0.68% lesser at CHF 8.80 on the Swiss Stock Exchange. On Monday, Shanghai Electric closed trading, 5.36% higher at CNY 8.27 on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News CRH plc (CRH), a provider of building materials, on Tuesday announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire a supplier of Supplementary Cementitious Materials in North America, Eco Material Technologies, for $2.1 billion. The proposed transaction is expected to close in 2025. The deal secures a long-term supply of critical materials and enhances CRH's position as a supplier of cementitious products in North America. Eco Material, based in Utah, operates a nationwide network focused on fresh and harvested fly ash, pozzolans, synthetic gypsum, and green cement. In the pre-market trading, 1.06% higher at $99.57 on the New York Stock Exchange. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Scheduled to go on sale in Japan later this year, Honda N-One e: is eligible for government subsidies allocated for CEVs (clean energy vehicles) After making a grand entry at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in a sporty Super EV Concept form, the Honda N-One e: has now made its official debut in Japan. The eccentric charm of the concept has been toned down in favour of functional styling and everyday practicality. Exteriors, interiors and some details about the equipment list have been revealed. Lets take a closer look. Honda Small Electric Car N-One e: One can notice old-school vibes, retro elements and a focus on simplicity and practicality. Some of the key highlights is the round headlamp setup with LED lamps and circular LED DRLs. The electric kei microcar has an upright front fascia, a clamshell-style bonnet and charging / V2L port on the front right. Side profile has body-coloured conventional door handles, dual-tone ORVMs with integrated turn signals, blacked-out B pillars and circular wheel arches. Honda N-One e: uses small wheels that have a simple 6-spoke design. At the rear, the EV has a wide windscreen, vertically-stacked rectangular tail lamps and a simple design for the tailgate and bumper. A total of five colour options are on offer including vibrant shades such as Cheerful Green, Fjord Mist Pearl and Seabed Blue Pearl. Users can also choose Platinum White Pearl and Lunar Silver Metallic colour options. Honda has not revealed the dimensions of N-One e:. However, being a kei car, it is likely to be less than 3,400 mm long. Practical interiors Insides are designed for ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. There are plenty of physical buttons on the dash and centre console, which boost practicality. Even the touchscreen infotainment system has physical buttons and a rotary dial. The dashboard is designed like a shelf, allowing easy storage of small items like smartphones, sunglasses, wallets, coins and other everyday essentials. Honda N-One e: does not have premium features such as wireless charging. Users will need to use the USB charging port. Smart features include a single pedal control function, which can be activated with a press of a button. In this mode, the accelerator pedal works as an accelerator when pressed down and as a brake when released. The latter part comes via regenerative braking. Another standout feature is an advanced V2L (vehicle to load) system. It can not only power your devices and appliances, but also your home during power cuts. For using the V2L function, users will need to buy an adapter (official accessory). The kit includes a dash-top LED indicator, making it easy to check the remaining battery from outside the car. Powertrain, range While specs have not been revealed, it is likely that Honda N-One e: will borrow the electric powertrain from the N-Van e:. In that case, Honda N-One e: could be using a 64 PS single electric motor. Range could be more than 245 km on a full charge. When using a 50 kW DC charger, the battery pack could be charged in approximately 30 minutes. Honda N-One e: India launch? With its distinctive design, comfort and smart features, Honda N-One e: has potential for the Indian market. It can popularize the idea of switching over to small-sized EVs with attractive styling and practical applications. However, it is unlikely that the Honda N-One e: will be available in India anytime soon. Honda has other plans for India, one of which is a new electric SUV, planned for launch in 2026. Honda also has plans to launch new hybrid cars in India. Members of the Chinese People's Liberation Army conduct disaster relief work at night in Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. The Chinese People's Liberation Army, the People's Armed Police Force and local militias have deployed troops to join disaster relief efforts in China's flood-stricken areas. Recently, persistent heavy rainfall has battered eastern, northern and northeastern China, triggering floods and geological disasters that have resulted in significant casualties and property damage. (Photo by Di Bowen/Xinhua) Members of the Chinese People's Liberation Army and the local militia transfer an injured senior citizen in Xiaying Town, Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 29, 2025. The Chinese People's Liberation Army, the People's Armed Police Force and local militias have deployed troops to join disaster relief efforts in China's flood-stricken areas. Recently, persistent heavy rainfall has battered eastern, northern and northeastern China, triggering floods and geological disasters that have resulted in significant casualties and property damage. (Photo by Ma Shuai/Xinhua) This photo taken with a mobile phone shows members of the Chinese People's Armed Police Force transporting supplies to Liulimiao Town of Huairou District, Beijing, capital of China, July 28, 2025. The Chinese People's Liberation Army, the People's Armed Police Force and local militias have deployed troops to join disaster relief efforts in China's flood-stricken areas. Recently, persistent heavy rainfall has battered eastern, northern and northeastern China, triggering floods and geological disasters that have resulted in significant casualties and property damage. (Photo by Yan Tongshuai/Xinhua) Members of the Chinese People's Liberation Army repair a damaged road in Jizhou District of north China's Tianjin, July 28, 2025. The Chinese People's Liberation Army, the People's Armed Police Force and local militias have deployed troops to join disaster relief efforts in China's flood-stricken areas. Recently, persistent heavy rainfall has battered eastern, northern and northeastern China, triggering floods and geological disasters that have resulted in significant casualties and property damage. (Photo by Chen Yuanhao/Xinhua) This photo taken with a mobile phone shows members of the Chinese People's Armed Police Force building a dike in Miyun District, Beijing, capital of China, July 28, 2025. The Chinese People's Liberation Army, the People's Armed Police Force and local militias have deployed troops to join disaster relief efforts in China's flood-stricken areas. Recently, persistent heavy rainfall has battered eastern, northern and northeastern China, triggering floods and geological disasters that have resulted in significant casualties and property damage. (Photo by Su Peng/Xinhua) This photo taken with a mobile phone shows members of the Chinese People's Liberation Army arriving to repair damaged roads at a village in Luanping County, Chengde City, north China's Hebei Province, July 29, 2025. The Chinese People's Liberation Army, the People's Armed Police Force and local militias have deployed troops to join disaster relief efforts in China's flood-stricken areas. Recently, persistent heavy rainfall has battered eastern, northern and northeastern China, triggering floods and geological disasters that have resulted in significant casualties and property damage. (Photo by Hou Yuchun/Xinhua) BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- A new type of unmanned cargo aircraft developed by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) recently completed a verification flight in complex terrain, marking a milestone for its future commercial operation. The YH-1000, developed by CASC's China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics, on Monday delivered a 400-kilogram cargo box to Liangping Airport after flying a round trip between Liangping and Wulong in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, the Science and Technology Daily reported on Tuesday. The YH-1000 completed the full-process verification of cargo transport, cross-regional flight and autonomous return in the complex mountainous terrain of the Yangtze River Basin. It flew along the 134-kilometer route connecting Liangping and Wulong, navigating over five mountain peaks, each over 1,000 meters in elevation, as well as traversing the Wujiang Canyon and the Yangtze River waterway. According to its development leader, the verification flight showed that the YH-1000 has the technical capabilities required for commercial operation. Its trial operation will be arranged pending regulatory approval. The YH-1000 completed its maiden flight on May 22, 2025. Featuring outstanding capabilities such as ultra-short takeoff and landing, and strong adaptability to harsh operating environments, it can operate on compacted dirt roads, leveled grassland, and highways, significantly expanding the application scenarios for unmanned cargo aircraft. With an endurance of 10 hours, a ceiling of 8,000 meters, and a payload capacity exceeding 1,000 kilograms, the YH-1000 can establish low-cost, rapid cargo links between cities and remote counties or townships, enhancing logistic connectivity in central and western regions in the country. Paleontologists in Patagonia, Argentina, have unearthed a portion of a postcranial skeleton that belonged to a previously unknown rebbachisaurid sauropod dinosaur. The newly-discovered dinosaur lived in what is now Argentina during the Late Cretaceous epoch, approximately 95 million years ago. Scientifically named Astigmasaura genuflexa, the species was about 18 m (59 feet) long and weighed more than 10 tons. The ancient giant was a member of Rebbachisauridae, a large family of sauropod dinosaurs within the superfamily Diplodocoidea. Rebbachisaurids are medium to large-sized, non-selective and ground-level browser diplodocoid sauropods, and they are characterized by highly specialized skulls, widely pneumatized axial elements and gracile appendicular skeletons, said Known from the Early Cretaceous to the early Late Cretaceous, the rebbachisaurid fossil record is particularly diversified in the ancient supercontinent Gondwana, with several specimens found in North Africa and South America. Notably, Patagonia has yielded over more than half of all known Rebbachisauridae, including the earliest forms and the youngest rebbachisaurid remains to date. The fossilized remains of Astigmasaura genuflexa were found at the El Orejano locality of the Huincul Formation in the Neuquen Basin, Patagonia, Argentina. The type material of Astigmasaura genuflexa comprises the posterior portion of an articulated, postcranial skeleton of a single, morphologically adult individual, the paleontologists said. The new species was one of the last rebbachisaurid dinosaurs before their extinction 90 million years ago. Astigmasaura genuflexa shares different conditions with other Rebbachisauridae, including anterior caudal vertebrae with tall neural spines and tetraradiate neural laminae, asymmetric middle haemal arches, mediolaterally compressed proximal tibiae, and femur with medially inclined distal condyles, the researchers said. Furthermore, Astigmasaura genuflexa shows a unique combination of diagnostic features that distinguish it from all other sauropods. This new record not only provides new morphological information about the caudal and pelvic girdle anatomy of Rebbachisauridae, which is poorly known to date, and suggests a greater taxonomic diversification within the family during the last stages of its evolutionary history than known before. The teams paper published online in the journal Cretaceous Research. _____ Flavio Bellardini et al. 2025. Side by side with titans: A new rebbachisaurid dinosaur from the Huincul Formation (upper Cenomanian) of Patagonia, Argentina. Cretaceous Research 176: 106188; doi: 10.1016/j.cretres.2025.106188 Students place chrysanthemums on the tombstone of U.S. Flying Tiger pilot Glen Beneda in Hong'an County, central China's Hubei Province, July 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Du Zixuan) WUHAN, July 29 (Xinhua) -- In a cemetery shaded by towering pines in central China's Hubei Province, a line of over 80 Americans, most of whom are high school or college students, stood silently on Monday. One by one, they placed chrysanthemums on the tombstone of U.S. Flying Tiger pilot Glen Beneda. The Flying Tigers, officially known as the American Volunteer Group of the Chinese Air Force, was formed in 1941 by U.S. General Claire Lee Chennault to help China in its fight against invading Japanese forces. Over eight decades later, the legacy of the Flying Tigers was revisited by a new generation -- the descendants of its veterans, along with students and teachers from several U.S. Flying Tigers friendship schools. Led by Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, the visit honored an extraordinary wartime bond. Beneda's stories and enduring friendship with China were recorded in a documentary titled "Touching the Tigers." In 1943, Beneda, then aged 19, was dispatched to China as a fighter pilot in the 14th U.S. Air Force. During an attack on a large Japanese army base in central China's Hankou the following year, the tail of Beneda's plane was hit and the aircraft crashed into Xiafeng Lake in Jianli County, Hubei Province. Beneda survived by parachuting into a nearby rice paddy, but he was severely wounded and barely able to move. Soon surrounded by local farmers, he used an emergency English-Chinese phrase book to try to communicate with them. The farmers finally realized that the man in front of them was an American soldier, and decided to save him. They carried him to a nearby farmhouse and, to prevent Japanese troops from locating the aircraft wreckage, tied heavy stones to his plane and sank it to the bottom of the lake. A perilous rescue story thus began. Farmers and soldiers risked their lives to transfer the injured American pilot on a stretcher across Japanese-controlled areas under the cover of night. "They couldn't have treated me any better," Beneda recalled in the documentary decades later. "When they fed me whatever they fed me, if I ate it all, by the next time, they would give me more. I learned that if they gave me two eggs and I ate them both, the next day they'd give me three." After 23 grueling days, Beneda finally arrived at the Fifth Division of China's New Fourth Army led by Li Xiannian, who later served as Chinese president from 1983 to 1988. There, the U.S. pilot slowly recovered and formed deep bonds with Chinese soldiers, even playing games of ping pong with them. After he was back in the United States, Beneda became a firefighter. His eldest son, Edward Beneda, said that his father had wanted to help those in urgent need, just as he had once been helped by the Chinese people. Glen Beneda later traveled back to China several times with his family. He was 81 during his trip to China in 2005. When he visited Xiafeng Lake, residents of Luojia Village -- the site of Beneda's wartime rescue -- made a makeshift sedan chair from bamboo poles and old chairs to carry him across the muddy fields his rescuers had once carried him over on a stretcher. At the age of 86 and knowing his heart was failing, the veteran returned to China once more in 2010, this time making the long journey with 10 loved ones from three generations of his family. "Because I believe that I owe a debt to the Chinese people who have been so good to me. It's so huge, there's no way I can pay it back," Beneda said in the documentary. On Oct. 20, 2010, Beneda suffered a heart attack and passed away three days later. In accordance with his wishes, some of his ashes were interred at the memorial park of the former residence of Li Xiannian in Hubei's Hong'an County -- the very land that had once sheltered him. The Flying Tigers' sacrifices were stark. A total of 2,193 members of the Flying Tigers lost their lives while supporting China and Myanmar during World War II. During battles, more than 200 downed pilots were rescued by Chinese civilians, and thousands of Chinese people died aiding them. This week, Jeffrey Greene encouraged the American students visiting the cemetery to share their experience of China with family and friends. "You guys are part of this history. When you go home, you tell them there is a remarkable relationship between the United States and the people of China. You tell them that it is strong." Among the students was Lili Li, who was visiting China for the first time with her mother Anna Li, who is the daughter of Lieutenant Kuo Ching Li, the only Chinese-American Flying Tiger. The girl described the trip as "eye-opening" and said she couldn't wait to share her photos with people back home, echoing her mother's hopes for the visit. "This trip exists for one reason, and that is to support the relationship between America and China, and we believe that it takes one child at a time," Anna Li said. In 2017, Luojia Village merged with two neighboring villages and was renamed Flying Tigers Village, in honor of Beneda and the treasured Sino-U.S. friendship. Beneda's grave has been carefully maintained over the years, and the memorial park in which it lies receives an average of over 900,000 visitors annually. "Our hope is that as we continue to do this, in a few years, maybe America will understand China a little bit better and come and believe with a more open heart," Anna Li added. U.S. students watch a documentary titled "Touching the Tigers" at the library of the former residence of Li Xiannian in Hong'an County, central China's Hubei Province, July 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Du Zixuan) This photo shows the former guesthouse of the New Fourth Army's Fifth Division in Dawu County, central China's Hubei Province, July 21, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhu Weixi) This photo shows the former guesthouse of the New Fourth Army's Fifth Division in Dawu County, central China's Hubei Province, July 21, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhu Weixi) This photo shows the former guesthouse of the New Fourth Army's Fifth Division in Dawu County, central China's Hubei Province, July 21, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhu Weixi) An aerial drone photo shows the former guesthouse of the New Fourth Army's Fifth Division in Dawu County, central China's Hubei Province, July 21, 2025. (Xinhua/Du Zixuan) This photo shows the former guesthouse of the New Fourth Army's Fifth Division in Dawu County, central China's Hubei Province, July 21, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhu Weixi) Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, places chrysanthemums on the tombstone of U.S. Flying Tiger pilot Glen Beneda in Hong'an County, central China's Hubei Province, July 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Du Zixuan) Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, speaks at the library of the former residence of Li Xiannian in Hong'an County, central China's Hubei Province, July 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Du Zixuan) The News in Brief Tuesday, July 29, 2025 Lithuania has expanded its sanctions list to include 10 additional Georgian officials, citing concerns over human rights abuses, corruption, and politically motivated prosecutions. The newly sanctioned individuals, who are now banned from entering Lithuania through 2030, include judges, prosecutors, members of the ruling Georgian Dream party, and the head of Georgia's Anti-Corruption Bureau.The move brings the total number of Georgian individuals barred from Lithuania to 112, as part of a broader policy targeting foreign nationals involved in what Vilnius describes as "gross violations of human rights, money laundering, or corruption." The newly sanctioned individuals include three judges from the Tbilisi City Court - Nino Galustashvili, Jvebe Nachkebia, and Irakli Shvangiradze - as well as prosecutors Mari Meshveliani, Natia Tatiashvili, and Viktor Metreveli. Also included are Sulkhan Tamazashvili, head of the Adjara government and former police chief; Georgian Dream party MPs Mariam Lashkhi and Nino Tsilosani; and Razhden Kuprashvili, the chief of Georgia's Anti-Corruption Bureau.Lithuanian authorities have not specified which cases or actions prompted the designations, but many of those listed have played roles in controversial prosecutions of opposition figures and protesters in recent years.A parliamentary delegation from the Georgian Dream party has visited China to strengthen bilateral relations and advance Georgia's role in the "Middle Corridor," a trade route connecting Europe and Asia. The group, which included Parliament Vice Speaker Giorgi Volski and key committee chairs, met with senior officials from the Chinese Communist Party, the National People's Congress, China's Education Ministry, and leading tech companies.According to Georgian Dream, the visit aimed to boost cooperation in sectors such as education, agriculture, and infrastructure while emphasizing Georgia's rising importance as a regional transit hub. The party said cargo flow through the Middle Corridor has grown by 30% since 2022, and framed Georgia as a "key network node" in Eurasian trade."For China, strengthening relations with Georgia represents a component of developing an alternative mechanism to connect with European markets," the statement read. Volski added that Georgia's geography and infrastructure align with the revival of Silk Road-style trade.The visit comes amid growing U.S. and EU concerns over Georgia's foreign policy direction. The recently passed U.S. MEGOBARI Act, still awaiting Senate approval, seeks to counter Chinese, Russian, and Iranian influence in Georgia and could impose sanctions on ruling party officials. PRAGUE, July 29 (Xinhua) -- A baseline tariff of 15 percent on European Union (EU) goods agreed by the bloc and the United States could slightly dampen the growth of the Czech economy, the Czech Ministry of Finance said on Tuesday. According to a preliminary estimate by the ministry, the tariffs could reduce Czech gross domestic product (GDP) growth by 0.2 percentage point this year and by 0.39 percentage point in 2026. However, the ministry stressed that this does not automatically mean a slowdown in real GDP growth, as the negative impacts can be offset by other developments. These include improved domestic economic performance in 2025 and the expected positive impact of the German fiscal package in 2026. Nevertheless, Czech economist Ilona Svihlikova offered a more cautious outlook. "Many details are still being finalized, including tariff levels in the pharmaceutical and agricultural sectors," she told Xinhua. "My estimate is that the impact could be as high as a 0.5 percentage point decline in GDP growth this year alone." Although the Czech Republic has limited direct trade ties with the United States, she said, the indirect impact through Germany could be significant. "German companies are likely to pressure Czech suppliers to lower prices to offset the tariffs, which may be difficult due to high energy costs in the Czech Republic," she warned. "This could also result in downward pressure on wages." Svihlikova also pointed to the continued high tariffs on steel and aluminum. "Some Czech companies are already considering relocating production to the U.S.," she said. As a small, export-driven European economy, the Czech Republic has close industrial links with Germany, its largest trading partner. Workers transfer packages of rice at a warehouse in Yangon, Myanmar, July 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) YANGON, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar is taking a big step toward sustainable agriculture as the Myanmar Rice Federation (MRF) initiates the use of solar power in rice mills. Twenty-eight rice mills across Yangon, Ayeyarwady, Bago, and Nay Pyi Taw will operate on solar energy in the current fiscal year 2025-26, with four mills having completed installation as of Tuesday, U Ye Min Aung, chairman of MRF, told Xinhua. The initiative aims to shift toward clean and renewable energy as the international markets value sustainability and low environmental impact, he said. Milling rice with solar energy not only improves product quality but also meets international environmental standards, he added. For international sales, China is a leading buyer of Myanmar rice, purchasing around 500,000 tons annually, while European countries import approximately 700,000 tons each year, he said. These markets are vital for Myanmar's rice industry, making solar-powered production a key factor in enabling premium pricing, he added. As part of this initiative, MRF has already signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with 17 Chinese solar companies, with plans to sign seven more, he said. "Chinese solar companies have been very supportive in meeting the technical and commercial needs of Myanmar's rice mill owners," he said, adding that solar-related items from China offer both quality and affordability. "Using solar energy reduces reliance on diesel by up to 70 percent," U Ye Min Aung said. The shift also aligns with global sustainability and net-zero goals, enabling clean, eco-friendly rice production, he said. "We also need to prioritize awareness and training programs to ensure proper use and maintenance of solar equipment," he added. Shwe Wah Yaung Solar Company's sales and marketing supervisor, Naing Zaw, said all solar equipment at the company is sourced from China. He explained that generators used in rice mills can impact rice quality due to gas emissions. "By installing solar systems, we can improve rice quality, which directly benefits exports," he said, adding that solar power also reduces operational costs and maintenance expenses. U Htun Myint, factory manager at Shwe Wah Yaung rice mill, one of Myanmar's top rice exporters, with annual exports of around 400,000 tons, highlighted the economic and environmental advantages of solar adoption. "By using solar power, we can significantly cut electricity costs and reduce reliance on diesel when grid power is unavailable. Operating on electricity allows us to maintain full production capacity, whereas diesel often limits output." "Solar energy ensures stable operations without full dependence on the power grid, lowers carbon emissions, and reduces noise pollution," he said. "This initiative benefits not only rice mills and the environment but also the country as a whole. For consumers, it can help lower production costs, and for the nation, it decreases oil imports, saving foreign currency," he added. With clean energy adoption, Myanmar expects to improve its rice production value chain by 10 to 20 percent, contributing to both food security and economic growth, U Ye Min Aung said. Workers carry packages of rice at a warehouse in Yangon, Myanmar, July 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) This photo taken on July 28, 2025 shows solar panels installed on the roof of a warehouse in Yangon, Myanmar. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) What happens when cutting-edge materials reach their breaking point? A new research project at South Dakota Mines is tackling that question head-ondeveloping smarter computer models to predict how ultra-strong, metal-ceramic composites fail under extreme conditions. From jet engines to bridges and power plants, these materials are critical to modern infrastructure, but their complex internal structures make failure hard, and costly, to foresee. This project aims to change that by combining high-powered simulations, real-world data, and open-source tools to make engineering safer, faster and more reliable. Understanding material failure under extreme conditions is critical to improving the safety and reliability of infrastructure and engineered systems, said Prashant K. Jha, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Leslie A. Rose Department of Mechanical Engineering. As these materials play essential roles in transportation, energy and defense sectors, developing robust, efficient methods to simulate damage and fracture is vital. Jha has been awarded a $200,000 National Science Foundation Engineering Research Initiation (ERI) grant to establish better computer simulations that can more accurately predict when and how these materials will fail. We will develop a mathematical model to look at the attraction between two different phases of materials, how they interact with each other, and when you apply forces, how they deform as a result," Jha said. At the core of the model is the simulation of deformation and failure and realistic contact between the particles or phases. These materials, when viewed at the micrometer scale, reveal highly structured and complex internal features; for example, soft materials embedded with ferromagnetic particles, tiny pieces of material that can be strongly magnetized. When a magnetic field is applied, the particles attempt to move in response to the field, causing the material to deform. However, because the particles are embedded within a surrounding matrix, the movement is constrained, Jha said. It's this interaction that is fascinating but challenging to predict, and something Jha hopes to develop a deeper understanding about. We are able to do high-fidelity simulation of multiple particles where we can see the deformation and breakage of these individual particles and also the complex interaction with different particles, he said. The goal of this project is to seamlessly combine the high-fidelity approach developed earlier and the coarse-grained approach, such as approximating the behavior of large collection of particles using continuum theories, allowing us to simulate the samples with tens to hundreds of thousands of particles. Once we have a predictive model, materials can be better designed for various scenarios. The work will be conducted through the Computational Engineering Analysis and Design (CEAD) Lab, which Jha is establishing at Mines. Alison Reeves, a senior mechanical engineering student, is working on the project with Jha, and a doctoral student will be added to their team. Jhas efforts received an additional boost through a South Dakota Board of Regents (SDBOR) Competitive Research Grant (CRG), which will provide $90,000 in funding over the next 18 months. Jhas research will create new open-source tools to help engineers design safer, more resilient materials and structural components across a range of industries. It will also train students and host workshops to foster a diverse, skilled workforce equipped to advance the mechanics of complex materials. By unlocking a deeper understanding of how advanced materials behave under extreme conditions, Jhas research has the potential to transform the way engineers design the next generation of safer, smarter and more resilient technologies. Bar and restaurant operator SSP said on Tuesday that group sales in Q3 were up 6% year-on-year in Q3 at constant currency rates despite seeing sales momentum soften mid-quarter. Like-for-like sales rose 3%, while contract gains added 4% and acquisitions chipped in 1%, though exits in Germany and India shaved off 2%. Sales momentum softened halfway through the quarter, dipping from 5% like-for-like growth early on, boosted by Easter timing, to just 1% over the final seven weeks, impacted by a weaker performance in the UK and Asia. With that said, SSP noted that trading picked up again in early Q4, with LFL growth around 3%. North American sales rose 5%, though LFL sales slid 2% amid lower passenger volumes as geopolitical jitters weighed on travel, while sales in Continental Europe were broadly flat. UK sales climbed 7%, buoyed by Easter and early strength, although M&S cyber issues disrupted mid-quarter trading. APAC and EEME surged 16%, driven by strong passenger flows in Malaysia, Egypt and Australia. For the nine months ended 30 June, SSP said group revenues had risen 10% at constant currency, with solid gains across contracts and M&A offsetting some regional pressures. Looking forward, SSP said it would accelerate cost-cutting and efficiency drives in an effort to support margins and returns, and noted that it remains on track to hit FY targets, currency headwinds notwithstanding. As of 0805 BST, SSP shares were down 0.28% at 177.50p. Reporting by Iain Gilbert at Sharecast.com Tin mining is poised for a comeback in Cornwall after the UK government invested almost 29m to reopen the countys last tin mine, creating more than 1,000 jobs in the region. The South Crofty tin mine, near the Cornish village of Pool, closed in 1998, and in the years since, as tin prices have soared, attempts to reopen it have been unsuccessful. Guardian The UK online payments company Wise is to move its main stock market listing to the US after shareholders approved the move. Investors in Wise, one of the biggest financial technology businesses in the UK with a market value of about 11bn, voted on Monday in favour of a dual listing in the US in an attempt to attract more investors and boost its value. Guardian The billionaire founder of easyJet has been defeated in a long-running copyright legal battle against a charity-fundraising site. Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, the tycoon behind easyGroup, last year filed a lawsuit against Easyfundraising, accusing the Staffordshire-based company of copyright infringement. A High Court judge ruled in favour of the fundraising platform, but Sir Stelios mounted an appeal, arguing there were a number of contradictions in the judgment. Telegraph Millions of workers in their 50s face losing up to 18,000 if the Government accelerates a rise in the state pension age, a leading wealth manager has warned. Rathbones, which manages the savings of older people, said introducing a state retirement age of 68 earlier than planned threatened to hit people aged 51 the hardest, while people aged 52 and 53 would also lose out. Telegraph A house-swapping trend has emerged in the upper echelons of the London property market. Wealthy non-doms who are making the move to Dubai or Abu Dhabi are selling their multimillion-pound homes to Emiratis wanting a UK base. In the first six months of 2025, 694 million of super-prime flats and houses those valued at 15 million and above sold in London, according to data from Beauchamp Estates, the high-end estate agent, and LonRes, the property data provider. The Times SYDNEY, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Australian cities may see more severe and frequent hailstorms as the climate warms, new research finds. Major urban centers like Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Perth are expected to experience larger hailstones and a greater risk of damaging hail events due to climate change, according to a statement released Tuesday by Australia's University of New South Wales (UNSW). The study, which examined simulated weather patterns in a warming climate, also shows hailstorms become more frequent in Brisbane, Sydney and Canberra. Hailstone sizes are expected to rise in several of these cities, and more intense storms in the future could increase the chances of large-diameter hail, said the study's lead author Tim Raupach from UNSW's Institute for Climate Risk and Response. The study finds that in Melbourne, 10cm hailstones - previously seen only every 20 years - could strike every three years as the climate warms. Hail damage has made up over 20 percent of insured losses in Australia from 1967 to 2023, mainly because stronger storm updrafts produce larger, more destructive hailstones, said the study detailed in Geophysical Research Letters published by the American Geophysical Union. While hail can occur nationwide, Australia's east coast is especially vulnerable. Remote areas like Western Australia's goldfields and the Gulf of Carpentaria also see severe hail, though data there is limited, it said. Researchers noted that Australia's growing solar industry is increasingly vulnerable to hail damage, but experts say this should encourage stronger infrastructure and resilience, not deter investment in renewables. The authors said current Australian building standards lack hail resilience measures, leaving many properties vulnerable, adding that although hail warnings and insurance exist, physical precautions like covered parking and strong roofing remain crucial for protection. Raupach stressed reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate worsening severe weather, and called for further research on how urban design could limit hailstorm risk in the future. In a bold leap forward for conversational AI, Convozen.AI, the conversational intelligence suite by NoBroker, announced the launch of its cutting-edge platform that enables businesses to create fully functional Agentic Bots on WhatsApp in under 10 minutes. These agentic bots have multilingual efficiencies, can handle complex customer journeys, remember context, make decisions, and continuously improve delivering a seamless 24/7 personalized customer service experience. The platform brings together voicebots and chatbots into a unified, multilingual experience, all on WhatsApp, the most familiar and accessible interface for billions. This new platform, built on Metas voice and chat APIs allows brands to deploy agents AI Bots which can be voice + chat, only voice or only chat and work as humans in the language preferred by customers. They dont just respond but are capable to reason, act, and resolve issues just like humans. This new platform marks a revolution in customer engagement on WhatsApp. Brands can now deploy AI agents that communicate via voicebot, chatbot, or a combination of both, offering a seamless, unified experience that feels remarkably human. These arent just bots, theyre intelligent agents that can reason, act, and resolve in real time, speaking the customers language, literally and contextually. Convozen is driving contact center transformation for enterprises enabling them to be functional 24/7 at a fraction of the cost of traditional, human-only setups. Few of the customers who are already live on Convozen have reported their app engagement went up by 44% after deploying agentic bots for customer engagement. Initially, the capabilities were limited to traditional telephony and basic chat. Telephony, while traditional, comes with its own set of challenges: poor call quality and lack of identity. This created confusion and lowered call pick-up rates as people often couldnt differentiate between useful calls and spam. But with WhatsApp, Convozen is delivering a truly unified customer experience across all channels. Whether its a call or a chat, the same AI engine is powering the interaction. Users can now interact with a brand through various touchpoints: telephony, WhatsApp chat, WhatsApp calling, or even web chat. NoBroker was Convozens very first customer and the results it experienced were transformational. As one of Indias largest proptech platforms, NoBroker runs 24/7 inbound support on WhatsApp, handling over 5,000 voice interactions daily across key verticals including rent, buy, sell, home loans, painting, cleaning, packers & movers, and more. By deploying Convozens agentic bots, NoBroker was able to unify its customer experience across services delivering more satisfactory natural, human-like conversations via WhatsApp voice. The outcome? A 2x boost in customer satisfaction scores, seamless multilingual support, and significantly faster issue handling, all without increasing support headcount. For NoBroker customers, it felt like talking to a real human who just gets it without having to repeat the context to different agents and regardless of the service line. Meta showcased the NoBroker- Convozen success story at the Meta Conversations Summit in Miami. Convozens multilingual voice bots handle diverse customer queries with high accuracy and ultra-low latency. Ravi Garg, Director, Business Messaging, Meta - "WhatsApp is the best place for people and businesses to get things done. Today, we are seeing businesses offer unique in-chat experiences for people to connect with them, shop, or even raise service requests. By enabling voice calling on the WhatsApp API combined with the power AI agentic solutions, businesses will be able to unlock significant value driving sales, increasing revenues, and addressing complicated customer queries. "The world is moving from workflow chatbots to intelligent genAI agents which are able to handle all kinds of conversations. With Agentic AI, were no longer just answering customer queries. Were anticipating needs, resolving friction, and elevating the experience to a new standard, said Akhil Gupta, Founder, Convozen and Co-founder & CPTO of NoBroker. Whats most exciting is that these bots speak the customers language literally and figuratively as they are able to switch between languages like people do in normal speech. They work 24/7 without fatigue or inconsistency. This frees up our human agents to focus on complex, value-driven conversations rather than repetitive, mundane tasks". Convozens mission is to reimagine the way businesses communicate with their customers, not as transactions, but as conversations. From real estate to retail, banking to healthcare, Convozen is already powering use cases across industries, helping brands reduce costs, increase efficiency, and unlock new levels of customer intimacy. "We believe the future of customer service is autonomous, agentic, and hyper-personal. This launch is not just a product, it's a glimpse into that future," he added. From prime steaks at Raval in Tompkinsville to roasted Atlantic Salmon at Lorenzo's in Bloomfield, Staten Island has an impressive lineup from seven restaurants offering deals through Aug. 15. Silvestri STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Reservations are now open for New York Citys Restaurant Week, offering diners a chance to experience the citys diverse culinary scene at special prices from July 21 through August 17. The summer 2025 edition of the twice-yearly program features nearly 600 participating restaurants spanning more than 50 cuisine styles across 70 neighborhoods throughout all five boroughs. Taste of India II in New Dorp received a shoutout from Mayor Eric Adams for its samosas. Silvestri Were thrilled to kick off NYC Restaurant Week, a tradition founded by New York City that invites locals and visitors to savor the diversity of our dining scene, said Julie Coker, president and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions. Participating restaurants will offer two-course lunch and/or three-course dinner prix-fixe menus priced at $30, $45 or $60, depending on the venue. The special menus will include a mix of classic favorites and new items, though taxes and gratuity are not included. The program excludes Saturdays. Sundays are optional for participating restaurants. Mayor Eric Adams highlighted the programs importance to the city: From tapas in Riverdale to samosas in New Dorp, New York Citys culinary scene captures every dish, cuisine, and culture. Theres no better way to celebrate that rich diversity than NYC Restaurant Week. This years program coincides with the citys 400th anniversary celebration. A special Founded By NYC filter allows diners to discover restaurants offering signature items, dishes that originated in New York City, or special $16.25 offerings that pay tribute to the year New York City was founded. Diners can browse participating restaurants using various filters including cuisine type, borough, neighborhood, and meal type. Collections are also available for those looking to choose restaurants by interests, such as Classic Restaurants, Summer Vibes, Date Night, and Celebrity Chefs. Chef and restaurateur David Burke, co-chair of the New York City Tourism + Conventions Culinary Committee, noted that Since 1992, NYC Restaurant Week has invited locals and visitors from around the globe to experience the restaurants, both iconic and new, that define dining in this city, all at an unbeatable value. Calamari Padella at Lorenzo's includes crispy calamari with sweet cherry peppers and pine nuts tossed in sweet chili soy sauce with a white balsamic vinegar finish. SIA Participating restaurants have the option to extend their Restaurant Week offerings for an additional two weeks, through September 2. A full list of participating restaurants and reservation options are available at nyctourism.com/restaurantweek. Here is the list of participants on Staten Island with further information on their respective websites: American (Modern) BOTA Supper Club Exclusive 21+ venue with elevated modern American cuisine and chic, sultry vibes 402 St Marks Pl. St. George; 347-466-5585, Exclusive 21+ venue with elevated modern American cuisine and chic, sultry vibes 402 St Marks Pl. St. George; 347-466-5585, botasupperclub.com Italian Lorenzos Restaurant, Bar & Cabaret Serves modern Italian and American fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily with a menu fueled by its own rooftop farm 1100 South Ave., Bloomfield; 718-477-2400, Serves modern Italian and American fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily with a menu fueled by its own rooftop farm 1100 South Ave., Bloomfield; 718-477-2400, lorenzosdining.com Maxs Esca Premier destination for exceptional dining and fine Italian cuisine 1559 Richmond Rd., Dongan Hills; 718-980-5006, maxsesca.com Premier destination for exceptional dining and fine Italian cuisine 1559 Richmond Rd., Dongan Hills; 718-980-5006 Mexican New York Mets' Mark Vientos hits a two-run double during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the San Francisco Giants, Saturday, July 26, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vasquez) AP Mets third baseman Mark Vientos has been named as a person of interest in trade talks recently. First, it was rumored that the Chicago White Sox want Vientos in any deal involving center fielder Luis Robert Jr. Now, Andy Martino of SNY is reporting that the Mets are discussing and willing to move him. With infielder Brett Batys newfound versatility hes added second base and outfield to his repertoire and infielder Ronny Mauricios natural hard-hitting ability, Vientos has found himself as the odd man out ahead of the trade deadline. If the Mets can find the right deal, theyll consider sending him packing. Theyre currently in the market for relief pitching, and, if the deal is right, a center fielder. Vientos has been in this position before. He lost the third base battle ahead of the 2024 season and made the most out of multiple big league opportunities before finally getting his shot. Once he replaced Baty as the everyday third baseman at the end of May 2024, he quickly became the Mets best power hitter. In 111 games, he slashed 266/.322/.516 and hit 27 home runs, the second-most among NL third basemen (minimum 400 plate appearances), and 71 RBIs. He was even better in the postseason, hitting five home runs in 13 games while batting .327/.362/.636. This season, Vientos has taken a step back offensively. Hes batting .226/.280/.358 with six home runs and 27 RBIs. His last home run came exactly two months ago, on May 28, against the White Sox at Citi Field. Vientoss bat has been heating up of late. Hes 13-for-43 (.302 batting average) with four doubles in his last 12 games. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription. Manny Gomez may be reached at mgomez@njadvancemedia.com. The charges against the Edison police officers were meant to send a message. Cops accused of falsifying off-duty work to add tens of thousands of dollars to their pay checks would face serious consequences, Middlesex County prosecutors announced in 2018. Theft charges. Racketeering allegations. Years of scandal inside the townships long embattled police department would finally come to an end in the kind of corruption case that puts police behind bars. Then the charges languished for seven years. Until last week, when authorities cut a deal with their three final defendants, concluding a costly prosecution that began with fanfare and ended with none of the three former cops spending a day in prison. Two of the accused officers Gregory Makras and James Panagoulakos saw their charges dismissed on July 23 in exchange for their resignations from the police force, where they havent worked since they were charged. Another former officer, Sgt. Ioannis (John) Mpletsakis, pleaded guilty on the same day to a tax charge for failing to report income. Authorities had also accused Mpletsakis of stealing from the Police Benevolent Association by making unauthorized purchases with the unions debit card. He was accepted into pretrial intervention, a first-offender program that will allow him to avoid a criminal record if he stays out of trouble. The Middlesex County Prosecutors Office and Police Chief Thomas Bryan declined to comment about the case, which the officers defense attorneys insisted was riddled with half-truths and non-truths from the beginning. This outcome affirms what Ive maintained all along that the allegations were unfounded," Makras said in a statement released by his lawyer, Jason Orlando. This is not just a conclusion, said Makras, 40, of Cranford. Its a vindication. Edison police officer Gregory Makras was accused of theft for allegedly collecting extra-duty pay for no-show jobs. He is pictured here at a 2018 court hearing. Keith Muccilli | For NJ Advance Panagoulakos is elated that the charges are dismissed, his attorney Charles Sciarra said last week, calling the original indictment an ill-conceived fiasco. Extra duty jobs are lucrative ways for police officers to earn extra cash by manning security, traffic details or special events. Prosecutors alleged the officers exploited that program from 2016 to 2018 by charging contractors for work they didnt do. The indictments came out of a multi-pronged investigation into Edisons department, which had long been tarred by allegations of misconduct in its ranks. The probe was sparked by the March 2018 arrest of another officer, Paul Pappas, after he drove his unmarked police car to the home of an ex-girlfriend and slashed a tire on her car while in full uniform. Pappas also faced accusations he stole through fraudulent off-duty work, and he cooperated with authorities. He pleaded guilty in his cases in 2019 and agreed to testify against Makras, Panagoulakos, Mpletsakis and a fourth officer who was charged. But the prosecution was plagued by pitfalls, with a Superior Court judge tossing the original indictment in 2020. Authorities revived the case in 2022 when they secured a new indictment. Still, those delays proved expensive to Edison taxpayers, who were forced to pay the four suspended cops at a cost of $1.42 million in salary alone while the charges sat in limbo for the two years, township records showed. The fourth charged officer, Sgt. Brian Rossmeyer, also avoided a conviction last year after he was permitted to enter into pretrial intervention. The defense argued the charges should have never been brought, saying that haphazard bookkeeping made it all but impossible to accurately account for the officers off-duty hours. They said their clients worked the overtime they were paid and hadnt stolen from anyone. Panagoulakos, 39, of Jackson Township, hopes to become a cop again in another department, despite his long suspension and resignation from Edison, Sciarra said. James has done whatever he could to contribute to paying the bills for seven years and now is fully engaged in seeking to return to law enforcement, which was always his calling, Sciarra said. Sgt. Ioannis Mpletsakis was one of a group of Edison cops charged with stealing tens of thousands of dollars through no-show work at off-duty jobs. He is shown at the Middlesex County Courthouse in New Brunswick, N.J., on Monday, October 24, 2022. Ed Murray | NJ Advance Media for Henry Klingeman, an attorney for Mpletsakis, said his client now runs a contracting business renovating homes, which helped keep the 45-year-old Edison man financially afloat since he was charged. John is relieved that this seven-year ordeal is over and hes going to complete (pretrial intervention) and put this whole thing behind him, Klingeman said. Pappas sentencing hearing has repeatedly been delayed. It is now scheduled for October, according to court records. Under his plea agreement, he faces a four-year prison sentence. Signs line Mike Campbell's Mantua property. Campbell is in litigation with Gloucester County over a plan to take a section of his commercial property under eminent domain for a project to widen an intersection. He believes a proposed Super Wawa is behind the project. Paige Britt | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com When Mike Campbell bought his small commercial property on Bridgeton Pike in Mantua in 2020, he planned on putting work into it so it could be something he could leave behind for his children as part of their inheritance. Several years later, he finds himself in a fight with Gloucester County, which is trying to use eminent domain to take a 871-square-foot piece of the property for a project to widen an intersection. Campbell runs his business, HR Logistics, out of a building on the 1/3-acre property located at the corner of Bridgeton Pike and Harrison Avenue. The county wants to use the sliver of land for a turning lane at the already-busy intersection that could see even more traffic in the future. Under eminent domain, the county would compensate Campbell for the use of the land. I know they can take this away from me in eminent domain, Campbell said. I know they can make my life miserable. I just want a fair exchange for what they want to do to my property. Campbell, who said he is at the building for up to 10 hours a day on weekdays, said the new turning lane would bring cars so close to his office window he would be able to reach out and touch them. A Super Wawa is proposed Across from Campbells property, on the corner of Bridgeton Pike, sits a Wawa without a gas station. When he bought the property, Campbell heard rumors about proposal for a Super Wawa, one with a gas station, that would be located diagonally across from the existing Wawa, and across the street from Campbells business. In a community message from Mantua Mayor Rob Zimmerman in May 2024, those behind the new Wawa were working with the Gloucester County Planning Division and the New Jersey Department of Transportation to get approval for an access permit, needed to construct the new Super Wawa. Mantua Township Land Use Board meeting minutes from March 18 show that the Major Site Plan approval for the site was extended by two years. A lawyer from Parker McCay, representing Gloucester County, said they are not able to comment because of ongoing litigation. Representatives of Wawa did not respond for comment. Seeking fair compensation Red signs that read Wawa wants to take my property! line the lawn in front of Campbells business. While Campbell has only been in contact with the county over eminent domain, he said he believes the timing of a new Wawa has something to do with his now years-long battle over plans to take part of his property. He has documented everything so far on his Facebook page. Im not anti-business. Im a businessman myself, Campbell said. In December of 2023, Campbell was approached by an appraiser representing the county. In April of 2024, he received what he believes to be a lowball appraisal offer. Campbell was advised by his lawyer, Andrew J. Karcich, not to share details about the offers because of ongoing litigation. The county-hired appraiser, Campbell said, used outdated and incorrect methods to determine the value of the property, such as comparing vacant properties, far away properties and using pre-COVID property values. In addition to a pile of legal bills, Campbell has had to hire his own appraiser, saying he has already spent up to $50,000 to improve the property. When Karcich attempted to negotiate with the county after receiving its offer, based on an initial appraisal, he was almost laughed off the phone, Campbell said. Campbell said his Open Public Records Act request for traffic studies and property plans pertaining to the intersection was denied because the project remains in the planning stage, adding that is not a listed reason for an OPRA request denial. Eminent domain may be appropriate Don Moliver, an expert in evaluation and eminent domain cases from Monmouth Universitys Kislak Real Estate Institute, explained that the countys reasons for using eminent domain are appropriate. If the turning lane will help the community in a public project or public use project, they can use it, he said. Without seeing the property or knowing the offer given to Campbell, Moliver cannot determine if it is completely fair. Moliver said Campbell could be owed damages to the remaining property, because the turning lane will diminish the value and create disadvantages. Campbell confirmed that this was discussed and included in his original offer. When theres a partial taking, the property owner is entitled to be compensated, its called just compensation, meaning fair and equitable compensation for the property, Moliver said. However, this leads to damages to the remainder. In other words, if it creates other disadvantage circumstances to the property owner, theyre entitled to damages. So theyd be entitled to the land that they lost plus damages to the remainder. Gov. Kathy Hochul has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff on Tuesday, July 29, in honor of the victims of Monday's shooting in Midtown Manhattan. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer) AP Gov. Kathy Hochul has announced that flags on state buildings will be flown at half-staff on Tuesday, July 29, in honor of NYPD officer Didarul Islam and the other victims of the shooting that occurred in Midtown Manhattan on Monday. The violence we witnessed at the hands of this individual is sickening, unacceptable and it must stop here, Hochul said. An attack on one of us is an attack on all of us, and we must confront this violence head on. My heart is with our neighbors in Manhattan, the victims and their families as well as the brave men and women of the NYPD. MOSCOW, July 29 (Xinhua) -- An aircraft from Pyongyang landed at Moscow's Sheremetyevo International Airport on Tuesday, completing its first round-trip, direct flight between the capitals of Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in nearly 30 years. The Boeing 777-200ER aircraft operated by Russia's Nordwind Airlines carried about 440 passengers in its full seating capacity, mostly DPRK nationals. Direct flights between the two capitals resumed on Sunday after close to three decades. The inaugural flight from Moscow arrived in Pyongyang on Monday, about eight hours after its take-off, and was greeted by a ceremonial water salute at the airport, the DPRK's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported. Addressing a welcome ceremony, Yun Jong Ho, the DPRK minister of external economic relations, said resuming direct flights between Pyongyang and Moscow marks a rapid development of bilateral ties, the report said. Traveling on board the first flight to Pyongyang was a Russian delegation headed by Minister of Natural Resources Alexander Kozlov for talks on bilateral cooperation, the KCNA reported. For the time being, the direct air service between the two capitals is offered once a month, the Russian Ministry of Transport has said. Kozlov has told Russia's TASS news agency that flight frequency will be determined after an assessment of passenger traffic. A direct air route is likely to be opened between Moscow and Wonsan city on the DPRK's east coast in the future, he said. Currently, the DPRK's flag carrier Air Koryo operates three weekly direct flights between Russia's Far Eastern city of Vladivostok and Pyongyang. A Cambodian military vehicle carries rocket launcher in Oddar Meanchey province, Cambodia, Saturday, July 26, 2025, as border fighting between Thailand and Cambodia entered its third day, heightening fears of an extended conflict. (Associated Press/Heng Sinith) (AP Photo/Heng Sinith) The U.S. Department of State has elevated its travel advisory for Thailand to Level 2, urging Americans to exercise increased caution due to ongoing unrest in the country. The updated advisory, issued July 25, 2025, highlights specific areas where travelers face heightened risks. More specifically, the State Department has designated areas along the Thai-Cambodian border as Level 4 (Do Not Travel), due to active armed conflict between Thai and Cambodian military forces. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid all areas within 50 kilometers of the region. There are reports of fighting, including rocket and artillery fire, between Cambodian and Thai forces along the border, the advisory says. This conflict has already resulted in civilian casualties, prompting the Thai government to order evacuations from certain areas. The advisory also warns about ongoing insurgent activities in Thailands three southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat, where 17 districts remain under a declared state of emergency. These provinces have experienced violence between Thai security services and armed insurgents, leading to what officials describe as a collateral risk of violence for American visitors. U.S. government assistance in these areas is limited. The advisory explains that American government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to the affected southern provinces, potentially delaying emergency services for U.S. citizens who encounter problems. For those still planning to travel to Thailand, the State Department recommends several precautionary measures, including: Creating evacuation plans that dont rely on U.S. government assistance Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for emergency updates Reviewing the Country Security Report for Thailand Preparing contingency plans for emergency situations Purchasing comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok remains available to assist American citizens and can be reached at +66-2-205-4049 for routine matters or +66-2-205-4000 for emergencies. Some of the stamps that the public can vote to bring back for the 2026 year. (Advance/SILive.com | Lily Zuckerman) From Bugs Bunny and Batman to the Emancipation Proclamation and Transcontinental Railroad, the U.S. Postal Service is giving you a chance to vote on which stamp youd like to see return to mark its 250th anniversary. The Postal Service was established in 1775 by the Second Continental Congress, which appointed Benjamin Franklin as the first postmaster general. As part of this milestone celebration, its permitting residents across the country to vote on which stamp should be reprinted for the anniversary collection. For stamp enthusiasts who have admired vintage postage designs that are no longer available for purchase, a new opportunity has arrived. Voting is open now through Sept. 30, according to a press release. The Stamp Encore Contest is part of the Postal Services anniversary celebration activities, designed to engage the public in postal history. The anniversary reprint will join the billions of stamps produced annually by the Postal Service. In 2024, the Postal Service reported printing 13.82 billion postage stamps and generating over $4 billion in revenue from stamp sales. Voters can choose from 25 stamp releases. The historic stamps on the ballot span various themes and years of issue, including: Bugs Bunny (1997) Peanuts (2001) DC Comics Super Heroes (2006) Art of Disney: Magic (2007) Send a Hello (2011) Emancipation Proclamation (2013) Mail a Smile (2015) Batman (2015) Wonder Woman (2016) Classics Forever (2016) Star Trek (2016) Have a Ball! (2017) Disney Villains (2017) Total Eclipse of the Sun (2017) Flag Act of 1818 (2018) Frozen Treats (2018) Bioluminescent Life (2018) Mister Rogers (2018) Transcontinental Railroad (2019) Lets Celebrate (2020) Star Wars: Droids (2021) Heritage Breeds (2021) Message Monsters (2021) Happy Birthday (2021) Charles M. Schulz (2022) The winning stamp will be announced in Boston at the 2026 World Expo in May, an internationally renowned philatelic exposition. There is no limit on how many times the public can vote. Participants can cast their votes online by visiting the Stamps Forever website or by mailing a paper ballot. President Donald Trumps tariff rebate check for Americans is coming closer to reality. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) on Monday introduced a bill in the U.S. Senate to send tariff rebate checks to all Americans. The checks would be similar to the stimulus checks that went out during the COVID-19 pandemic during Trumps first term in the White House. CBNC said that each adult and dependent child could get at least $600 under Hawleys American Worker Rebate Act of 2025. A family of four could see a windfall of $2,400. The payouts could be even larger if tariff revenue exceeds projections. The benefit would be reduced by 5% for joint tax filers with an adjusted gross income above $150,000 or single filers earning more than $75,000. Trump last Friday said that he was thinking about a little rebate for Americans based on the revenue being raised by the United States from tariffs on foreign goods. Like President Trump proposed, my legislation would allow hard-working Americans to benefit from the wealth that Trumps tariffs are returning to this country, Hawley said in a statement. But it is not yet known whether the proposal has broad support among GOP lawmakers, particularly among fiscal hawks on that side of the aisle. House lawmakers were not enamored earlier this year when Trump and Elon Musk pitched sending $5,000 rebate checks to Americans based on savings by Musks Department of Government Efficiency, which was charged with cutting government waste. Those checks never materialized. The Treasury Department reported an unexpected surplus for June, CNBC reported, with a boost coming from tariff revenue. Customs duties totaled roughly $27 billion for the month, compared to $23 billion in May. The duties reflect a 301% gain from June 2024. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is urging residents to exercise caution amid extreme heat and poor air quality. This photo from April 26, 2023, shows Hochul at the annual SIEDC Business Conference at the Hilton Garden Inn. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel) New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is urging residents to take precautions amid a forecast heat wave and poor air quality conditions. As high temperatures and poor air quality impact parts of our state, were taking action to ensure New Yorkers are safe, Hochul said. Heat is the number one cause of extreme weather fatalities in the State of New York, and I encourage everyone to take the proper precautions to protect themselves, their families and our most vulnerable neighbors. The governors statement comes as the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the Department of Health have issued air quality health advisories for Tuesday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. for ozone in New York City and Long Island. Summer heat can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone, according to the governors office As of 4 p.m. Tuesday, Staten Island recorded an air quality index of 147 for ozone, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, as noted by AirNow. The Air Quality Index, or AQI, is a way to measure how clean the air is on a scale. The higher the AQI value, the greater the health concern, according to the National Weather Service. Air Quality Health Advisory: Air Quality Index (AQI) forecast to reach 101-150 tomorrow, 7/30. Unhealthy for sensitive groups & may be unhealthy for those sensitive to air pollution. Info: https://t.co/qrjF4dZ6EW. Multilingual & ASL Link: https://t.co/PefNUSLaUp. NYCEM - Notify NYC (@NotifyNYC) July 29, 2025 Notify NYC, the citys official emergency notification system, forecasts an air quality index value somewhere between 101 and 150 for Wednesday. The air quality advisories come as the city faces a potential heat wave. As explained by Dave Dombek, a senior meteorologist with AccuWeather, Central Park recorded a high of 94 degrees. As of Tuesday afternoon, the park recorded temperatures around 97 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. Should Wednesday reach the forecast high of 94 degrees, the city will have experienced the second heat wave of the summer. In addition to the heat and poor air quality, Hochul also warned residents of the potential for locally severe thunderstorms and rainfall which could generally range from one to three inches. Support the Peninsulas only locally-owned newspaper. Subscribe! Subscribing annually brings you big savings. We also offer monthly and weekly subscriptions. Premium Subscription As low as $8.25 per week Premium Includes: -- Access to the Daily Journals e-Edition: a digital replica of our daily newspaper including crossword puzzles, games, comics, classifieds and ads. You can download a digital replica of the Daily Journal for offline reading. You can also clip & download articles or images from the e-edition to share with others The most recent 90 issues are available at any given time. -- Unlimited access to our award-winning online content -- Commenting access on all stories as a valued member of the DJ community -- NEW! Access to our online-only digital crossword puzzle. A new puzzle every day, seven days a week! Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson meets with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Stockholm, Sweden, July 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Dai Tianfang) STOCKHOLM, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Stockholm on Monday, as the two countries vow to deepen cooperation and uphold free trade. He first conveyed greetings from the Chinese leadership to Kristersson. He noted that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Sweden, and that Chinese President Xi Jinping and Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf exchanged congratulatory messages to mark the occasion in May. Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both countries, China-Sweden cooperation has continued to expand across various fields, with increasingly close economic and trade ties and broad prospects for future development, He said. He stated that China is ready to work with Sweden to enhance communication and deepen cooperation on the basis of mutual respect, mutual trust, equality and mutual benefit. Both sides should jointly uphold multilateralism and free trade, and promote the sound and steady development of bilateral relations, He added. He also briefed the Swedish side on request on the latest round of China-U.S. economic and trade talks. Kristersson stated that Sweden attaches great importance to developing cooperation with China, firmly supports free trade and economic globalization, and is ready to use the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to deepen pragmatic cooperation in multiple fields and work to achieve more positive outcomes in Sweden-China relations. Sydney Sweeney is facing an online backlash over an American Eagle ad campaign highlighting her great jeans that has led to the label being accused of being Nazis and of leaning into eugenics in the messaging. The American Eagle (AE) autumn campaign featuring The White Lotus and Euphoria star was announced last week with the fashion brand declaring: Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans, is a return to essential denim dressing and a celebration of what the beloved brand does best: making customers look and feel good in AE Jeans. Sydney Sweeneys American Eagle campaign has been slammed. The company also announced the Sydney Jean, which includes a butterfly motif on the back pocket of the jean representing domestic violence awareness, which Sydney is passionate about. The entire purchase price of the jeans would be donated to Crisis Text Line, a free counselling service for people in need. Advertisement Review Eating outHurstville The most famous tart in the world is the solo star of the show at this father-son patisserie The pasteis de nata (Portuguese tarts) at Lusinata may not come with fancy toppings, but you can match the tiny scorched suns with dessert wines and cherry liqueur. Lenny Ann Low June 15, 2025 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 1 / 13 Father and son team Andre (left) and Fernando Ferreira. Janie Barrett 2 / 13 Portuguese tarts are the stars of the show at Lusinata. Janie Barrett 3 / 13 Lusinata offers no special flavours or extra toppings. The only garnishing is cinnamon, available at the tables. Janie Barrett 4 / 13 The pasteis de nata are baked fresh every morning. Janie Barrett 5 / 13 The pair chose to open in Hurstville to add to the areas wide-ranging food culture. Janie Barrett 6 / 13 Fernando Ferreira has spent 40 years perfecting his craft. Janie Barrett 7 / 13 Pasteis de nata lined up in the display cabinet like tiny scorched suns. Janie Barrett 8 / 13 Fernando carefully monitors the baking tarts. Janie Barrett 9 / 13 Fernandos exact recipe is a family secret. Janie Barrett 10 / 13 The Ferreiras are the first to open a dedicated Portuguese tart cafe in Sydney. Janie Barrett 11 / 13 Andre is learning from his father to carry on the tradition after Fernando retires. Janie Barrett 12 / 13 Pasteis de nata in the oven. Janie Barrett 13 / 13 Fernando is very tough and very picky when it comes to his tarts, says Andre. Janie Barrett Previous Slide Next Slide Portuguese$$$$ Do you know how Portuguese tarts first came to be? asks Andre Ferreira, son of master pastry chef Fernando, who stands beside him whisking a secret combination of egg yolks, sugar, dairy and cinnamon at their Hurstville cafe-patisserie kitchen. Its a pretty cool story. The morning air is filled with the sweet fragrance of Fernandos pasteis de nata, baked an hour ago and lined up in the glass display cabinet like tiny scorched suns. Bright yellow against Lusinatas white walls and blue azulejos (tiles), the tarts are the only pastry baked here the solo star of the show. Photo: Janie Barrett Advertisement The main reason for this specialisation is Fernandos skill and finesse as a pastry chef. Born in Seixal near Lisbon, he has spent four decades perfecting traditional Portuguese pastries, biscuits and cakes in his home country and in Australia after moving here in 1991. Another reason is the passion of his son. I want my father to retire, says Andre. Boots and all. Hes worked so hard for so long. I want him to rest. But I also want his talent and his recipes to continue. That cant be lost. So Im learning everything from him to carry it on. Having transferred the custard batter into a metal funnel, Fernando stands over a tray of 30 pastry-lined tartlet tins, pouring uncooked nata by opening and closing the funnels end with his finger. The tarts are then baked for eight to 10 minutes at a blisteringly hot temperature, quickly crisping the pastrys folds without the custard centre boiling over. Midway, Fernando turns the tray front-to-back for even baking before monitoring the ovens temperature dials like a conductor tempering an orchestral suite. Andre, who watches on intently, is the only person who knows the secrets of his fathers tart recipe. Hes a perfectionist, he says. What somebody thinks is a perfect tart hell say is only halfway there. Dad is very tough and very picky. Advertisement Photo: Janie Barrett As Fernando opens the oven to reveal steaming tarts, Andre explains their origin from a time before the 18th century when monks at the Jeronimos Monastery in Belem, Lisbon, were left with bountiful yolks after starching their habits with egg whites. They wanted to avoid waste, Andre says. And ended up creating the most famous tart in the world. Egg yolks give a Portuguese tarts custard centre its rich, golden, thickened quality. At Lusinata, the molten centres perfectly soft and sweet beneath the mottled surface are only matched by the light crisp pastry, made here with butter imported from Europe. But what brand of butter, exactly? Thats another secret, Fernando says. There are great Australian and New Zealand butters but, for the best tarts, it has to be a particular one I like. Advertisement The Ferreiras are the first to open a dedicated Portuguese tart cafe in Sydney. Melbourne has Casa Nata and Sweet Nata, and certainly Sydney isnt short of excellent Portuguese tarts at patisseries including Tuga in Alexandria and Clovelly, and Sweet Belem in Petersham. Photo: Janie Barrett Lusinatas specialisation extends to offering no special flavours or extra toppings on the tarts. The only garnishing here is cinnamon, available in spice shakers on the cafe tables. You can, however, match them with Portuguese dessert wines and cherry liqueur Espinheira Ginja. After Andre pours a shot of the latter into a copinho de chocolate, an edible chocolate cup, its a sweet warming wonder between tart bites. I want his talent and his recipes to continue ... So Im learning everything from him to carry it on. Andre Ferreira Advertisement The pastry, melty and crackling, holds beautifully firm (no explosive cascading mess here), leading to what I can only describe as suspended eggy magma rich, not too oozy, evenly sweet and best chewed slowly. These are tarts to convert the tart-dubious (perhaps scarred by congealed, undercooked, sapless versions) in one bite. The Ferreiras may add other pastries to Lusinatas range in future, but theres no immediate plans. Theyve also opened in Hurstville rather than Petershams Little Portugal strip because they want to establish their brand and add to the areas wide-ranging food culture. We dont do this just for the Portuguese, Fernando says. We do this for everybody. Three more singular bakeries to try Lune Croissanterie Queues for the croissants at these boutiques dedicated to the warm, buttery pastry can be long, but Kate Reids creations are a must for any pastry lover Martin Place Metro Station, Sydney and 115/151 Dunning Avenue, Rosebery, lunecroissanterie.com Brooklyn Boy Bagels Brooklyn-born bagel aficionado Michael Shafran uses kettle-boiling, hand-rolling and long cold fermentation for his traditional sweet and savoury New York-style bagels. Go for the dark, chewy pumpernickel loaded to the edges with spring onion and garlic schmear. 19 Carrington Road, Marrickville and 4 Reservoir Street, Surry Hills, brooklynboy.com.au Olotl People are often lining up for this weekend-only taco bar above Campos Coffee before its 11am opening time. Head there for the birria (in beef and vegan versions) and mole verde on handmade cornflour tortillas. 193 Missenden Road, Newtown, olotl.com.au Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant cant pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide. Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up Falling in step with the latest footwear trend involves kicking off your sneakers and indulging in a high kick or Bob Fosse hip roll. Footwear designers are turning their attention away from basketball courts and the athletic track to dance studios for inspiration as jazz shoes make a claim to being the strongest and sassiest contender for the shoe of spring. You cant run a marathon in them, but you will always be ready for a spontaneous performance of Chicago the musical. Jazz shoes were a standout on the Paris Fashion Week runway at Celine. The jazz shoe trend taps into the balletcore revival, blending everyones love for nostalgic dancewear with modern street style, says stylist Elliot Garnaut, who has worked with Shanina Shaik, Karl Stefanovic, Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding. Sleek, minimal and universally wearable, theyre fast replacing the statement sneaker as the off-duty footwear for people in fashion. The secret blackmailing of premier-in-waiting Peter Malinauskas has been revealed in an Adelaide court. But the perpetrator herself a former MP was never sentenced after the charges were dropped in a deal with prosecutors. SA Premier Peter Malinauskas. Credit: AAPIMAGE Annabel Digance is now suing Malinauskas and the state of South Australia for $2.3 million for allegedly instigating what she claims was a malicious prosecution mounted to damage her reputation. In April 2023, prosecutors elected not to proceed with blackmail charges against Ms Digance and her husband Greg, after they agreed to a ban on contacting Malinauskas and his family. That decision was made in a closed session of the District Court, and the details emerged for the first time during separate proceedings for Ms Digances lawsuit in the South Australian Supreme Court on Wednesday. The blackmail charges stemmed from a meeting between Mr Digance and then-opposition leader Malinauskas in February 2020, which was recorded by Malinauskas and handed to police. Defence documents filed by the state government say at that meeting, Mr Digance demanded Ms Digance be secured an upper or lower house seat in the SA parliament, and that a failure to do so would result in Mr Malinauskas career being deliberately damaged. In her statement of claim, Ms Digance states Malinauskas reported the meeting to police in March 2020, claiming he was a victim of blackmail. In her lawsuit, Mrs Digance also alleges trespass, wrongful arrest and false imprisonment by SA Police. Annabel Digance. Credit: Fairfax Media On Wednesday, Malinauskas counsel Michael Abbott, KC, asked the court to order that the government hand over files from SA Police and the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions that explain the agreement reached for the Digances to avoid sentencing. Associate Justice Graham Dart said much turns on any agreement between the DPP and the Digances in the prior criminal proceedings. Abbott and Todd Golding, for the state government and SA police, indicated they planned to lodge applications for the lawsuit to be dismissed. The matter returns to court in September. AAP More than 100,000 NSW students are not meeting proficiency benchmarks in NAPLAN, with about half of children from disadvantaged backgrounds falling behind in reading, writing and maths. The National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy results show one in three students is failing to meet the baseline standard, as results remain largely static three years after a radical overhaul of NAPLAN reporting. However, high school students are showing gains in core areas as a greater share of year 7 and 9 children are scoring in the top exceeding band in grammar, reading, writing and numeracy compared with two years ago. The 2025 national scorecard, released on Wednesday, has once again exposed the stark gap between rich and poor students in Australia, and the deep education divide between those children living in cities and the regions. A 62-year-old man stalked a group of 12-year-old girls over several days in Sydneys eastern suburbs after meeting them inside a shopping centre and feeling a connection, a court has heard. Four girls were eating at McDonalds Westfield Bondi Junction on January 24 when Mark Coker, who was sitting near them, engaged in some communication with them, Magistrate Michael Barko said at Waverley Local Court on Tuesday. One of the incidents occurred while the girls were swimming off Bondi Beach. Credit: Flavio Brancaleone When they saw him later, they tried to steer clear of him. The next day, three of the girls were at North Bondi when they saw Coker while walking on a pedestrian crossing. Chris Minns doesnt seem to like Josh Lees. While the showdown over whether Sundays proposed march across the Harbour Bridge goes ahead is ostensibly between activists and authorities, its clear that the premier has little time for the socialist activist who has been a driving force behind the pro-Palestine protests that Minns has pushed hard to curtail. Josh Lees at a press conference about the proposed protest rally across the Harbour Bridge. Credit: Wolter Peeters As his frustration mounted last year, Minns dismissed Lees as a professional protester (the descriptor was put to him, and he agreed), whose weekly protest applications had cost taxpayers $5 million in resources. Broadcaster Ben Fordham went further, questioning what Lees did for a living and saying he could write on his resume that he was a full-time pain in the arse. A year ago, as a year 12 student trying to decide what degree to pursue, I wrote a piece for this masthead about how the Job-ready Graduates scheme, introduced by the Morrison government in 2021, was deliberately diverting students away from arts degrees by slugging them with a higher fee increase than almost any other degree. I did end up choosing arts. But what I didnt realise was that the scheme would continue to push me away from studying areas Im passionate about, through the bizarre cost discrepancies between different arts subjects. Take my semester 1 subjects: literature and French were each $578. Creative writing and political theory were $2124 each. Arts students face a bizarre fee system in which some subjects can cost nearly four times as much as other subjects. Credit: Simon Schluter I was shocked when I received that first fee statement. My choice of study area would determine whether I paid about $2000 for a single subject or an entire semester. My whole degree could cost anywhere between $14,000 and $50,000. And I couldnt understand the rationale behind these disparities. If, as it professed to do, the schemes pricing system aimed to incentivise vocational study areas, why were literature graduates considered four times more employable than politics students? Two Melbourne lawyers accused of lying to a magistrate with a little sob story about a clients car accident that never happened are to stand trial on charges of attempting to pervert the course of justice. Zoe Davis, 35, and Rachelle Badour-Taha, 26, faced Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday when magistrate Leon Fluxman found there was sufficient evidence for them to stand trial before a County Court jury. Zoe Davis outside court on Tuesday. Credit: AAP Prosecutors allege Davis was overseas when she instructed Badour-Taha as her junior colleague was making her first in-court appearance for a client who was due to appear at Frankston Magistrates Court on September 26, 2023. Davis who ran law firm ZD Legal at the time is accused of texting Badour-Taha to make up a reason why the client was unable to be at court at 11am that day. Prosecutors say Badour-Taha wasnt in court when the clients case was called at 11.15am, but she was told by the magistrate an hour later that a warrant would be issued for the clients arrest for failing to appear. ADEN, Yemen, July 29 (Xinhua) -- For a second day, hundreds of protesters flooded the streets of Mukalla, capital of southeastern Yemen's Hadramout province, over prolonged daily power outages exceeding 15 hours, residents and security sources said Tuesday. The demonstrations, which began Monday, have paralyzed the coastal city, with protesters blocking major roads, burning tires, and halting traffic. They also sealed off Mukalla's main eastern entrance, preventing the movement of vehicles and trucks. Protesters roamed the streets chanting anti-government slogans, while residents reported an absence of security forces in protest-hit areas. In a major escalation, demonstrators temporarily shut the main gate of Mukalla Port and blocked access to the Hadramout local government headquarters and other state facilities. A port official said dock operations continued despite the brief closure. Hadramout authorities announced Sunday that power stations were gradually shutting down due to fuel shortages, with many generators now out of service. Mukalla's power crisis reflects broader infrastructure breakdowns in Yemen, where years of conflict between government forces and the Houthis have crippled essential services nationwide. Premier Jacinta Allan has labelled pro-Palestine protesters who rallied outside the National Gallery of Victoria on Sunday as extremists who brought antisemitism to the streets of Melbourne. The demonstrators targeted the gallery, which was forced into lockdown, because of donations it has received from well-known Jewish philanthropists John and Pauline Gandel. Premier Jacinta Allan has called pro-Palestine protesters who rallied outside the NGV on the weekend extremists. Credit: Jason South Hundreds of activists marched through the city to the NGV on Sunday afternoon, and one witness reported being yelled at by protesters and accused of supporting Zionism and genocide by entering the gallery. Videos circulating online show protesters writing slogans in chalk on the gallerys exterior walls, including NGV funded by Zionists, as well as turning the pond outside the NGV red. Privately operated bail services, including GPS monitoring, will be banned from Victoria after a series of scandals in which for-profit companies failed to properly track dangerous offenders or were corrupted by organised criminals. The state government will announce on Wednesday that commercial operators will no longer be able to provide monitoring services worth tens of thousands of dollars a year that allow wealthy offenders to stay out of jail ahead of criminal proceedings. Victorian Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny has vowed to end the use of private bail providers. Credit: Jason South The move comes after the collapse of two major operators in 2024-25, including one that, as revealed by The Age, failed to notify authorities it was no longer monitoring eight offenders under its control and another where the owner was implicated in a scheme to help put an alleged ringleader of Melbournes tobacco war back on the street. It is not appropriate for unregulated, unaccountable private companies to be offering electronically monitored bail services, Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny told this masthead. Victorias schoolchildren have defied a national trend of lacklustre results in this years NAPLAN tests to catapult the state to the top of the class. Nationwide NAPLAN results show little or no improvement on the previous year, with large numbers of children still struggling with the basics of learning and nearly a third of students in years 3, 5, 7 and 9 playing catch-up in reading, writing, spelling and maths. Loading The results of tests sat by more than 1.3 million children around the nation in March show nearly 33 per cent are either in need of additional support or developing, on average, across reading and writing. The data also highlights the sharp economic and demographic divides in Australian education, with more than 57 per cent of Australias most disadvantaged year 9s and about 53 per cent of Victorias struggling with their reading, compared with just 17 per cent of those from the top socioeconomic bracket. Labor MPs are pushing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to go big on the governments next climate target as leading economist professor Ross Garnaut called for a resurrection of the carbon tax to kickstart Australias ailing green-energy transition. The political fight over the governments climate targets intensified on Tuesday, as Climate Change Authority chief Matt Kean declared calls from the Nationals for Australia to abandon net zero were a disgrace and a sideshow. Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen faced questions in parliament and outside over climate targets on Tuesday. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Garnaut, a former senior adviser to several Australian governments, said in a speech at the Clean Energy Summit in Sydney that Australias transition to a green economy was on a path to comprehensive failure. Fundamentally, Australia is currently on a trajectory to miss its renewable targets because of low investment and output in grid-scale solar and wind, he said. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has claimed a partial victory, releasing figures showing fewer victims of crime in the state than when the LNP took power. Surrounded by senior police on Tuesday morning, Crisafulli announced victim numbers had fallen 5.7 per cent statewide on a per-capita basis. Robbery was down 13.2 per cent, car theft was down 6.4 per cent and break and enters were down 12 per cent. Total victims fell from 75,084 to 72,588. Premier David Crisafulli said crime victim numbers have already fallen during his term. Credit: Joe Ruckli If youre asking whether or not Im popping champagne corks, were a long way off. We havent even put it on ice, he told reporters. Police officers have reached an in-principle agreement with the Crisafulli government over a new pay deal, winning increases to late-night shift allowances, greater incentives for remote and regional work, and an $8000 retention payment for every general duties officer across Queensland. The agreement was celebrated by Premier David Crisafulli on Tuesday morning, as negotiations with unions representing other public sector workers appeared further from reach. Nurses and midwives said the police deal was outrageous and raised questions over the LNPs treatment of a predominantly female frontline workforce. Meanwhile, teachers announced they would stop work for 24 hours next week. Every general duties officer across Queensland will get an $8000 retention bonus. Weve delivered certainty when it comes to wages, to conditions, and to resources as well, Crisafulli said of the police deal in a press conference on Tuesday, called to spruik new data on victims of crime. I would never be one to turn down that kind of an offer, the president said in May. I mean, I could be a stupid person and say, No, we dont want a free, very expensive aeroplane. It is free in the sense that a used car handed over by a neighbour looking to get it out of his driveway is free. In this case, among the many modifications will be hardened communications, anti-missile systems and engine capabilities to take the president quickly to safety as one of the older Air Force Ones did on September 11, 2001, when al-Qaeda attacked the United States. And there is the delicate matter of ridding the jet of any hidden electronic listening devices that US officials suspect may be embedded in the walls. One careful owner: Qatars surplus 747-8 has been on the market for about five years. Then, of course, it has to be stuffed with the luxuries and gold trim with which the 47th president surrounds himself, whether he is in the Oval Office or the air. The jets upper deck has a lounge and a communications centre, while the main bedroom can be converted into a flying sick bay in a medical emergency. So its no surprise that one of Washingtons biggest guessing games these days is assessing just where the price tag will end up, on top of the $US4 billion already being spent on the wildly behind-schedule presidential planes that Boeing was supposed to deliver last year. It was those delays that led Trump to look for a gift. Air force officials privately concede that they are paying for renovations of the Qatari Air Force One with the transfer from another massively overbudget, behind-schedule program, called the Sentinel. That is named for the missile at the heart of Washingtons long-running effort to rebuild Americas ageing, leaky, ground-launched nuclear missile system. Loading The project was first sold to Congress as a $US77.7 billion program to replace all 400 Minuteman III missiles, complete with launch facilities and communications built to withstand both nuclear and cyberattack. By the time Trump returned to office, that figure had ballooned by 81 per cent, to $US140 billion and climbing, all to reconstruct what nuclear strategists agree is the most vulnerable, impossible-to-hide element of Americas nuclear deterrent. And that was the number before the air force announced a few months ago that it would have to dig all-new silos across Montana, Wyoming and North Dakota because the old Minuteman silos were leaking and crumbling. The first of the Minutemen was installed 55 years ago, when Richard Nixon was president and Leonid Brezhnev was inside the Kremlin. Washington and Moscow had a combined total of more than 30,000 nuclear weapons pointed at each other. (Today it is closer to 3100.) The good news is that in the first Trump administration, the air force got rid of the command-and-control systems that still used eight-inch floppy disks, proving that the so-called deep state can get something done when it digs, well, deep. Some nuclear strategists argue that ground-based nuclear weapons do not need to be replaced at all; they are far more vulnerable than weapons travelling under the sea on stealthy submarines or that can be loaded on bombers. But the Pentagon doesnt want to part with one-third of the nuclear triad, and the silos and their command posts are big employers in the rural west. The current Air Force One is a Boeing VC-25, the military version of the hugely successful 747. Credit: AP They serve another function in the second Trump administration. The modernisation program has proved to be the perfect thing if you were determined to hide how much you were spending on a plane, especially one equipped to order up a nuclear strike if needed. In testimony before Congress in June, Troy Meink, the air force secretary, said he thought the cost of the Air Force One renovations would be manageable. I think there has been a number thrown around on the order of $US1 billion, he said. But a lot of those costs associated with that are costs that we would have experienced anyway; we will just experience them early [before Boeing delivers its two Air Force Ones]. So it wouldnt be anywhere near that. We believe the actual retrofit of that aircraft is probably less than $US400 million. If so, that would be a bargain. But engineers and air force experts who have been through similar projects have their doubts that it can be accomplished for anything like that price. Members of Congress express concern that Trump will pressure the air force to do the work so fast that sufficient security measures are not built into the plane. When asked last week, the Air Force said it simply could not discuss the cost or anything else about the plane because it is classified. (For collectors of such bureaucratic evasions, yes, the air force is willing to discuss the cost of building a new generation of intercontinental ballistic missiles, but not the cost of renovating the presidents aircraft.) Loading Only at the Pentagon could someone reprogram $US934 million and expect no one to notice. The coffers were refilled with the passage of the budget reconciliation bill several weeks ago, budget officials say. The more we learn about this deal, the more disturbing it becomes, said Democratic senator Jeanne Shaheen, who serves on the armed services committee. The security implications of accepting a private plane from a foreign nation as Air Force One and the resulting ethical concerns a gift of that size creates were already significant. But it was more worrisome, Shaheen said, that this administration is diverting funds from the nuclear modernisation budget to finance costly renovations to this plane. In doing so, she said, were weakening our credibility to fund a vanity project for President Trump. PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) would like to inform the business community, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and stakeholders that the application process for the annual Hurricane Passes for the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season is closed until next year. The application process for the two types of passes, the Disaster Pass and the Hurricane Pass, started mid-April 2025 and concluded on May 30, 2025. The ODM falls under the Ministry of General Affairs and is responsible for handling the application process for the passes on behalf of the Prime Minister. The Hurricane Pass is valid for the 2025 and 2026 hurricane seasons and will remain the property of the Government of Sint Maarten. The pass system is a mechanism to maintain public order during emergency situations. The Prime Minister assesses the damage in conjunction with Emergency Disaster Management entities of the Government after a disaster has occurred and can impose a curfew if the extent of the damage poses a threat to the safety and security of the community. UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen (on screens) speaks via a video link at a Security Council meeting at the UN headquarters in New York, on July 28, 2025. Pedersen said Monday that the Syrian interim authorities must act professionally and with discipline. (Loey Felipe/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua) UNITED NATIONS, July 28 (Xinhua) -- UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen said Monday that the Syrian interim authorities must act professionally and with discipline. "A sovereign Syria must ultimately hold the monopoly on the legitimate use of force and operate under the rule of law," he told the UN Security Council. Pedersen expressed concern about credible reports of widespread violations and abuses in Sweida, including summary executions and arbitrary killings, kidnappings, destruction of private property and looting of homes. He noted that among the reported perpetrators were members of the Syrian security forces and individuals affiliated with the interim authorities. "Sectarian incitement and abusive conduct particularly during security operations is simply inexcusable. The state has a clear duty to act professionally and with discipline, even when under attack. It must take control of its forces and ensure visible accountability -- key to rebuilding trust, enhancing security, and promoting unity," he said. Syrians must feel that the state and its forces exist only to protect them, as is the stated policy of the interim president, Pedersen said, adding that "the gap between that policy and reality on the ground must close." Loyalty to the state "must be earned through a genuine process that builds a representative state, protects the rights of all, and embraces all segments of society as equal," he added. Referring to the inclusiveness of the political transition, Pedersen said that "many Syrians express concern about centralized power, limited transparency, weak checks and balances, and insufficient means for genuine public consultation, participation and scrutiny," warning of the risk of "deepening feelings of exclusion and undermining belief in the transition." The UN envoy said that the formation of a People's Assembly is a crucial step in the political transition, and is expected to take place in September. "It is absolutely vital that all major Syrian groups and components are fully included as electors and candidates," said Pedersen, referring to the importance of women's participation in both sectors. The UN envoy said that the United Nations "is ready to do all it can to help, working with the authorities and all Syrians," adding that "the Syrian political transition simply cannot fail." UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen (on screens) speaks via a video link at a Security Council meeting at the UN headquarters in New York, on July 28, 2025. Pedersen said Monday that the Syrian interim authorities must act professionally and with discipline. (Loey Felipe/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua) Spain competition watchdog expands probe into Apple Madrid, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 Spain's competition watchdog said Tuesday that it had broadened a probe opened last year into the conditions Apple imposes on developers of mobile applications sold on its App Store. The CNMC regulator began the inquiry in July 2024 into possible anti-competitive behaviour by the US tech giant for allegedly imposing "unfair commercial terms" on developers of mobile applications sold through its app marketplace. The CNMC said it had expanded its probe to see "whether Apple may have established a pricing schedule that developers are required to follow in order to distribute their apps in its stores". "This would constitute a restrictive practice of competition among businesses," it added in a statement. Apple said it would continue to work with the antitrust watchdog "to ensure our concerns are fully understood". "We designed the App Store to be a safe and trusted experience for users and a great business opportunity for developers in Spain and around the world," it added. Apple's success is built on a closed ecosystem focused on iPhones and iPads, where it controls all aspects of its platform on the grounds this boosts security and user experience. This approach, however, clashes with European competition regulations. vab/ds/imm/js North Korea warns US against pushing it to give up nukes Seoul, July 28 (AFP) Jul 28, 2025 The powerful sister of North Korea's leader warned the United States on Tuesday against pursuing denuclearisation, after a White House official was quoted as saying President Donald Trump was open to dialogue with Kim Jong Un. "Any attempt to deny the position of the DPRK as a nuclear weapons state... will be thoroughly rejected," Kim Yo Jong said in a statement carried by state media, referring to the North by the acronym for its official name. Kim said the "personal relationship" between her brother and Trump was "not bad", but warned that should not be used to "serve the purpose of denuclearisation" in any future talks. Trump and the North Korean leader met three times during the US president's first term in a bid to reach an agreement on the denuclearisation of the North. But since their second summit in Hanoi in 2019 fell apart over failure to agree on what the North would get in return, Pyongyang has accelerated its nuclear programme. "Shortly ago, a person in authority of the White House said... that he (Trump) is still open to dialogue with the DPRK leader for achieving the complete denuclearization of the DPRK," Kim Yo Jong said Tuesday, according to the North's official Korean Central News Agency. She appeared to be referring to an unnamed White House official who was quoted by Yonhap news agency at the weekend as saying Trump "remains open to engaging with Leader Kim to achieve a fully de-nuclearized North Korea". "I do not want to deny the fact that the personal relationship between the head of our state and the present US president is not bad", she said, but warned Washington against trying to use that to achieve denuclearisation. If it is used for that purpose, "it can be interpreted as nothing but a mockery of the other party," she said, urging the United States to recognise the North as a "nuclear weapons state". Trump has talked up his "great relationship" with the North Korean leader, and hinted that he might seek to rekindle talks with the third-generation ruler in Pyongyang. Gaza civil defence says Israeli strikes kill 30 Gaza City, Palestinian Territories, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 Gaza's civil defence agency said Tuesday that Israeli air strikes killed at least 30 Palestinians, including women and children, in the central Nuseirat district. Civil defence spokesman Mahmud Bassal said the strikes were carried out overnight and into the morning and "targeted a number of citizens' homes" in the Nuseirat refugee camp. The local Al-Awda hospital said it had received "the bodies of 30 martyrs, including 14 women and 12 children". There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military, whose forces have been conducting operations against militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip for almost 22 months. The Israeli offensive, triggered by a bloody attack by the Palestinian group on October 7, 2023 attack, has killed more than 59,900 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. At the weekend, under pressure from international opinion to head off the territory's slide into famine, Israel declared a series of "tactical pauses" which began on Sunday to allow aid deliveries. According to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, the pause in military operations covers "key populated areas" between 10 am (0700 GMT) and 8 pm every day. Designated aid convoy routes will be secure from 6 am to 11 pm, Netanyahu's office said. Overnight, however, strikes continue. COGAT, an Israeli defence ministry body in charge of civil affairs in the Palestinian territories, said that more than 200 truckloads of aid were distributed by the UN and aid agencies on Monday. Another 260 trucks were permitted to cross into Gaza to deposit aid at collection points, four UN tankers brought in fuel and 20 pallets of aid were airdropped from Jordanian and Emirati planes, COGAT said. Kremlin says 'committed' to peace in Ukraine after Trump's new deadline Moscow, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 Russia is still committed to achieving peace in Ukraine, the Kremlin said Tuesday, in the first reaction to US President Donald Trump cutting his deadline for Moscow to cease fire in the conflict. The US president earlier said he would slash his initial 50-day deadline to "about 10 or 12 days" and that he was not interested in talking to Russian President Vladimir Putin anymore. "We have taken note of President Trump's statement yesterday. The SVO (special military operation) continues," spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, using Russia's term for its offensive. He also noted a slowdown in attempts to restore ties with the United States after Trump's comments. "We would like to see more dynamics. We are interested in this. In order to move forward, we need impulses from both sides." Multiple Russian strikes killed over two dozen people across Ukraine on Tuesday, including a 23-year-old pregnant woman and at least 16 inmates who died in a single strike on a prison. But Peskov said Moscow still remained "committed to the peace process to resolve the conflict around Ukraine and secure our interests." The latest round of talks between Moscow and Kyiv held last week yet did not yield a breakthrough, but only provided for the exchange of prisoners. Russia wants to mine Niger's uranium, energy minister says Niamey, Niger, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 Russia wishes to mine uranium in Niger, a top source of the radioactive metal ruled by a military junta friendly to the Kremlin, Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev has said. Since the junta took power in a 2023 coup, Niger has turned to Russia, which commands the world's largest arsenal of atomic weapons, for help in fighting the west African country's jihadist insurgency. Arguing that Niger should benefit more from being the world's seventh-largest producer of uranium, the junta has also insisted on greater control over its natural resources. That policy has led to tensions with former colonial ruler France, whose nuclear power plants have long relied on uranium extracted from Niger. While on an official visit to the capital Niamey on Monday, Tsivilev met Niger's junta chief, General Abdourahamane Tiani, to talk about the two countries' burgeoning economic cooperation. "Our main goal is to mine uranium," Tsivilev said after meeting the general. "Our task is not only to participate in uranium mining, but to create an entire system for the development of civil nuclear power in Niger," the energy minister is quoted as saying in an official Russian statement. - Mining stand-off - During the visit, Russia's atomic agency Rosatom and Niger's energy ministry signed a memorandum of understanding on civilian uses for nuclear power, according to the statement. Among others, Tsivilev pointed to the construction of atomic power plants, advances in nuclear medicine and the training of Nigerien specialists in those fields. Like its fellow junta-run allies in Burkina Faso and Mali, Niger has pivoted away from France and the West in favour of closer cooperation with Russia. As a result of its insistence on exercising more control over Niger's natural resources, the junta is currently locked in a stand-off with the Orano nuclear group, which is 90-percent owned by the French state. In 2024, Niger removed Orano's operational control of its three main mines in the country -- Somair, Cominak and Imouraren -- which the Paris-based company has attempted to win back through arbitration. The Imouraren mine is home to one of the largest deposits of uranium in the world. In June the ruling junta announced it would nationalise the Somair mine, in a move Orano slammed as "asset stripping". There was no indication from Monday's meeting that any of Orano's Nigerien mines would be turned over to Russia. When contacted by AFP, the Paris-based miner did not wish to comment on the prospect of Moscow mining uranium in Niger. Uranium was first discovered in the country in 1957 while under French rule, with mining beginning in 1971. Niger produced 3,527 tonnes of the radioactive metal in 2023, equal to 6.3 percent of global production, according to mining industry publication Globaldata. bh-bdi/sbk/ach Ukraine to let over 60s into armed forces amid shortages Kyiv, Ukraine, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday signed a law allowing Ukrainian people over 60 to join the armed forces, which are struggling to find recruits as the Russian invasion drags through a fourth year. The law will allow them to sign a one-year contract for non-combat roles if they pass medical tests, according to an explanatory note on the parliament's website. "A significant number of citizens aged 60 and over have expressed a strong desire to voluntarily join the defence of the state," the note said. "It is necessary to involve a larger number of people who wish to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine," it said. Ukraine has launched several initiatives to attract more people into the armed forces -- including with a one-year contract and financial incentives for people aged 18 to 24. It also lowered the mobilisation age from 27 to 25 in April 2024 -- resisting calls from the US administration to lower it to 18. Deadly clashes between Uganda, South Sudan forces Juba, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 Uganda's army, which has been supporting South Sudan's ruling faction against its internal rivals, has clashed violently with local armed forces in the country, officials said on Tuesday. Uganda has been a long-time military supporter of South Sudan's President Salva Kiir and announced in March that it had deployed special forces to the country. It was backing Kiir as he moved against his long-time rival, Riek Machar, and militias from Machar's ethnic Nuer community. But the clashes on Monday appeared to be between the Ugandan People's Defence Forces (UPDF) and a local detachment of government troops in Central Equatoria State, near their shared border. "Elements from the armies of two sisterly Republics of South Sudan and Uganda exchanged fires" in Kajo Keji County, the South Sudan army said in a statement. It said the chief of its defence staff had spoken with his Ugandan counterpart to ensure hostilities ceased and launch an investigation into how the clashes began. A statement by Kajo Keji County representatives said the "attack by the UPDF... has resulted in loss of lives and injuries from both sides". The representatives said thousands were forced to flee their homes and were "sheltering in bushes, religious premises and local schools". Uganda sent troops to support Kiir when civil war broke out in the country in 2013, just two years after it had gained independence from Sudan. The war between Kiir and Machar lasted five years and left some 400,000 dead before a power-sharing agreement was reached in 2018. That deal has been all but buried by Kiir's recent moves to sideline Machar, raising fears of renewed ethnic conflict. The Ugandan army has been accused of using chemical weapons, namely barrel bombs containing a flammable liquid that killed civilians, against Nuer militias in South Sudan's northeast. Uganda has denied the accusations. Sudan quartet meeting postponed after Egypt-UAE spat: diplomatic sources Cairo, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 A ministerial meeting on the Sudan war between the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt was postponed on Tuesday after a disagreement over the final joint statement, two diplomatic sources told AFP. Egypt and the UAE, seen as the key external players in Sudan's devastating war, disagreed on the role the warring parties -- Sudan's regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces -- would play in a potential peace process. According to Egypt's foreign ministry spokesman, the meeting this week in Washington was aimed at charting a path towards negotiations to end the war, which has killed tens of thousands and created the world's largest hunger and displacement crises. The meeting was cancelled over "an unresolved disagreement" about the final joint statement, an Arab diplomat told AFP, requesting anonymity. "The UAE inserted a last minute change to include no presence for both the army and the RSF in the future transitional process," the source added, calling the stipulation "totally unacceptable". Cairo, historically the Sudanese army's closest ally, has repeatedly emphasised the "importance of preserving Sudan's national institutions". Another source close to the negotiations said "the US circulated a draft that everybody accepted, including the UAE, but Egypt did not accept the part that said that the transitional period should not be controlled by any of the warring parties." The US then "decided to postpone the meeting to a later date," they told AFP. The United States under Joe Biden and Saudi Arabia have previously sponsored several unsuccessful rounds of negotiations to end the bloody conflict, which experts say has already spilled over into the surrounding region. The United Nations has repeatedly warned of outside forces fueling the war in Sudan, which possesses coveted gold deposits -- exports from which are nearly all funnelled to the UAE -- as well as huge amounts of arable land and hundreds of kilometres of Red Sea coastline. Cairo and Abu Dhabi are close regional allies, but find themselves on opposite sides of the Sudan war. The UAE has been widely accused of arming the RSF, in violation of a UN arms embargo on Sudan's western Darfur region. Abu Dhabi has issued repeated denials, despite widespread reports from UN experts, diplomats, US politicians and international organisations. The war has visited mass atrocities on civilians and torn the country apart. The army is currently in control of the centre, north and east while the RSF seeks to consolidate its hold on the west and south, and recently declared a parallel government in areas it controls. BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese military on Tuesday conducted combat readiness patrols in the surrounding areas of and airspace over the territorial waters of China's Huangyan Dao, an official statement said. The Chinese People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command said that beginning in July, its troops have organized naval and air forces to continuously strengthen patrols and vigilance in these areas, further bolstering maritime and airspace control and management. The move is aimed at resolutely safeguarding China's sovereignty and security, as well as upholding peace and stability in the South China Sea region, the statement said. BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- China's national observatory on Tuesday continued to issue an orange alert for rainstorms, the second-highest level in its four-tier warning system, with this alert covering many parts of the country. Heavy rain is expected across numerous regions, including the capital Beijing and neighboring Hebei and Tianjin, as well as Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, Jilin, Liaoning, Shandong, Jiangsu, Shanghai, Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi and Taiwan Island on Tuesday and Wednesday, the National Meteorological Center forecast. Some regions will see up to 300 mm of rainfall within 24 hours, according to the observatory. It advised local authorities to prepare emergency response measures, and remain on high alert for natural disasters such as flash floods and mudslides. The center also renewed a yellow alert for severe convective weather in multiple regions of the country on Tuesday and Wednesday. Thunderstorms, gales and hail will hit areas including the northeast region, the northern region and regions between the Yangtze River and the Huaihe River, the center said. China has a four-tier weather warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue. Allow Google Search To use the search feature, we need your consent to load Google Custom Search, which may use cookies or similar technologies. Please click 'Allow and Continue' below to enable search. See our privacy policy for more information. Allow and Continue However, yesterday saw the Lionesses flexing their smart outfits, especially made for them by Marks and Spencer. Fresh off the plane from Basel, the sporting stars were dressed to the nines as part of their visit to 10 Downing Street to meet Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner. Quite the task, considering how they were reportedly partying until 4am the night before. Asserting that she had no reason or motive to carry out the shooting and did not know the intended victims family, Betro said she would have said no if she had been asked to take part in any plot. We are clear that the recognition of the Palestinian state is a matter of when, not if, but it must be one of the steps on the path to a two-state solution as part of a wider plan that delivers lasting security for both Palestinians and Israelis. KIEV, July 29 (Xinhua) -- At least 17 people were killed and 42 others injured in a Russian air strike on a prison in the Zaporizhzhia Region, the Ukrainian Ministry of Justice said on Tuesday. Four guided aerial bombs hit the Bilenkivska correctional colony in the region at approximately 11:28 p.m. (2028 GMT) on Monday, the ministry said on its Telegram channel. The raid ruined the institution's main buildings, including its administrative headquarters, and the seriously wounded were hospitalized, provided with medical assistance and under observation, it said. Ukrainian media reported that at least 42 inmates were hospitalized with serious injuries, while another 40 sustained different wounds. Over the past days, Russia and Ukraine have exchanged drone and missile strikes against each other, causing casualties and infrastructure damage. The Prince of Wales was spotted in the stands in Basel on Sunday applauding with those around him, including Princess Charlotte, and royal celebrations could continue as a trip to Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle may be arranged for the team as plans for a reception in the autumn are being explored by royal aides, it is understood. Set in contemporary New York, an Albanian interpreter reluctantly agrees to assist in therapy sessions for Alfred, a Kosovar man processing the trauma of torture. Their sessions are tense, emotionally charged and far more demanding than she expects. As the pressure builds, her grip on both her marriage and mental well-being begins to slip. With little warning, she finds herself boarding a flight back to Albania, seeking her mother in a moment of desperate, uncertain escape. Its such a terrible time to be Jewish because of the hate we can and do receive, she told MailOnline. I dont recognise this country anymore. Nobody should feel afraid or intimidated because of their religion. The whole concept is bizarre to me, but its happening right now. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun answers questions at the regular press conference on July 28, 2025. (Photo/fmprc.gov.cn) (ECNS) --China's position on the economic and trade issue is consistent and clear, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday in Beijing at a press conference in response to questions about the economic and trade talks between China and the U.S. in Sweden. China hopes that the U.S. will work with China to act on the important common understandings reached by the two presidents during the phone call, make good use of the consultation mechanism, have more consensus and cooperation and less misperception through communication and dialogue on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit, and promote the steady, sound and sustainable development of China-U.S. relations, Guo said. PHNOM PENH, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The situation of the Cambodia-Thailand border has eased after a ceasefire took effect Monday midnight, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said on Tuesday morning. In a post on his official social media platforms, Hun Manet said, "The frontline has eased after a ceasefire took effect from Monday midnight in accordance with the spirit of the agreement between Cambodia and Thailand at a special meeting in Malaysia." "A sooner cessation of hostilities will also allow affected people, such as evacuees, to return to their homes and resume normal livelihoods sooner," he said. "This ceasefire and peace agreement is yielding positive and effective results," Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen said on Tuesday morning in a post on his official social media platforms. Thai and Cambodian leaders have agreed to implement a ceasefire starting midnight on Monday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said following a meeting on Monday hosted by him in Malaysia. The exchange of gunfire between Cambodian and Thai soldiers over disputed border areas began on July 24, with both sides accusing each other of violating international law. BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Torrential rains have wreaked havoc across northern China, forcing evacuations, disrupting traffic, and leaving 30 people dead in Beijing and eight more in neighboring Hebei Province, where a landslide struck a village. The rainstorm alert in the Chinese capital was canceled on Tuesday as the rainbands weakened and shifted eastward, although showers were still forecast for the afternoon and evening. The city remains on its highest level of flood-control emergency response. In Mentougou District, 15,195 people had been evacuated as of 8 a.m. Tuesday, and all 19 major tourist sites had been closed. In Pinggu District, more than 12,800 people have been relocated, with 40 emergency shelters set up in gyms, schools, hotels and village offices. A total of 34 teams involving 1,073 personnel have been deployed for flood response in Pinggu. The city's meteorological bureau said the Chinese capital recorded an average of 72.2 mm of rainfall between 8 p.m. Monday and 10 a.m. Tuesday, with a peak of 196.5 mm reported at Yancun Station in Fangshan District. Authorities confirmed that 30 people had died in Beijing as of midnight Monday, including 28 in Miyun District and two in Yanqing. In Hebei Province, a rain-triggered landslide in Luanping County has killed eight people, with four others still missing. Officials said that all residents of the affected village will be relocated as a safety precaution. In neighboring Tianjin Municipality, more than 10,500 people had been evacuated from Jizhou District after floodwaters entered 13 villages along the Juhe River as of Monday night. "The floodwaters swept right past my doorstep, even our tricycle was carried away," said a 63-year-old evacuee surnamed Wei. Du Hanyong, principal of a middle school serving as a temporary shelter in Jizhou, said the facility is stocked with sufficient food, water and essentials, and the cafeteria is ready to operate if needed. The downpours have also disrupted rail services. Railway authorities on Tuesday temporarily suspended some trains on the Beijing-Harbin high-speed railway, and multiple trains on a railway linking Beijing with Baotou, a city in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, have been suspended or rerouted. China's Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Emergency Management on Tuesday allocated 350 million yuan (about 48.94 million U.S. dollars) in central government disaster relief funds to nine provincial-level regions. YINCHUAN, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Under the scorching sun, Xu Xiaolong and his colleagues trudged through wild grass in the Gobi Desert, scanning the rocky foothills of Helan Mountain in Yinchuan, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, in search of ancient carvings. Upon finding a pattern on a rock, the team immediately photographed and recorded its location. "This field survey not only assesses the preservation status of previously discovered rock carvings but also helps identify and document new ones," said Xu, 36, who works with the city's Helan Mountain rock art administration. He explained that the work would lay the groundwork for subsequent digital archiving and protection efforts. Stretching 250 km, Helan Mountain is home to over 20,000 ancient rock carvings created by early inhabitants with stones, metal tools or mineral pigments. Dating back approximately 10,000 to 3,000 years, the carvings depict diverse subjects ranging from natural images like human faces, animals and handprints, to ancient life scenes such as herding, hunting and rituals. Launched in 2020 as a follow-up to the 2000-2003 census, the administration has surveyed over 12 square km in and around the Helan Mountain rock art ruins park. The fieldwork is set to continue through the end of 2025. TRACES OF ANCIENT LIVES Among the carvings, one features two handprints -- one large and the other small. "The handprints likely signify 'me' and 'you,' carved onto the rock to seal an agreement," said Zhang Jianguo, deputy director of the administration. He added that affixing a handprint to documents such as deeds and contracts was a traditional practice in China, and this rock carving reflects that enduring cultural continuity. Within the park, the deepest carving reaches 1.5 cm, a depth that has survived millennia of weathering. Via an experiment, the administration found that even three people carving throughout an entire day left only faint marks, indicating that prehistoric people likely spent multiple generations completing a single work. "We assume that it was the tribal leaders or shamans who designed the patterns, and others might have carved and deepened the grooves in the following centuries as a way of expressing faith," he said. Guided tours, cultural events and creative products have boosted public engagement, with the park drawing 900,000 visitors in 2024. CONTINUOUS CONSERVATION Despite their historic significance, the rock carvings face preservation challenges just like any other outdoor ancient rock art elsewhere in the world. Weathering has faded or erased many images, while freeze-thaw cycles caused by rainwater have led to cracking and peeling. As part of efforts to strengthen the protection, China's State Council designated the site as a major national cultural heritage unit under protection in 1996, followed by the establishment of the administration in 2002. In 2003, the city-level Helan Mountain rock art protection regulation became China's first dedicated legislation for the preservation of rock art. Zhang, who has witnessed and been involved throughout the entire conservation journey, recalled that concrete efforts included extensive field surveys, the construction of flood-prevention dams and protective fencing, as well as the development of protection plans to balance tourism with preservation. In cooperation with other institutions, the administration reinforced 20 rock faces with carvings and cracks, injecting organic materials into fissures to prevent surface peeling from 2012 to 2017. A nanomaterial coating is sprayed onto surfaces for water- and sun-proofing protection and monitors have also been installed to collect humidity, temperature and wind data to guide future protection work. "While the rock art may eventually fade, advancing technology allows us to employ all possible means to extend its legacy for as long as we can," Zhang said. The Romanian investment fund market has exceeded the threshold of one million investors, a milestone marking the 30th anniversary of the reopening of the domestic capital market, according to the Romanian Association of Fund Administrators (AAF). According to data centralized by the Association, in June of this year, the number of investors in funds was 1,007,481 people, which reflects the constant increase in trust in professionally managed savings and investment mechanisms, but also the maturation of the Romanian public in terms of financial education and investment solutions for increasing financial independence, the cited source shows. "Exceeding the one million investor threshold is an extremely important moment for our industry, relatively yong ad viewed for a long time with quite little confidence. This symbolic milestone, in essence, shows us several extremely important elements for our industry and which make us confident that the next one million investor threshold will be reached much earlier than 30 years. The evolution of the industry in which thousands of professionals work also reflects the course of the Romanian economy over the last 30 years. We are happy to see a higher level of public confidence in the products of the asset management market, a more informed, more responsible and more oriented towards long-term planning public, the essential elements for the sustainable development of the capital market in Romania. "The legislative change adopted three years ago, which allowed for withholding tax and a more advantageous taxation of this type of investment, was the main driver for doubling the number of investors in open-end investment funds, popular among retail investors. If in July 2021, there were just over 500,000 fund investors in Romania, currently their number has exceeded 1 million people," said Horia Gusta, president of the Romanian Association of Fund Administrators (AAF), quoted in the press release. The aggregated data by AAF for June 2025 show a solid market evolution, with the net assets of the 248 open-end and closed-end funds (local and foreign) reaching 51.8 billion lei (10.2 billion euros), after a monthly increase of 2.5% and a 7.1% year-to-date advance. Net inflows into funds in June amounted to 99 million lei (19.6 million euros). By category, the 96 local open-end funds recorded an increase in net assets by 1.7%, reaching 29 billion lei (5.71 billion euros), with net inflows of 101.8 million lei, while foreign open-end funds distributed in Romania (116 funds) had an increase in net assets expressed in lei of 1.5% in June, up to 2.26 billion lei (0.45 billion euros), with net inflows of 6.9 million lei (1.37 million euros). At the same time, the 36 alternative investment funds (AIF) recorded an increase in net assets by 3.8%, reaching 20.5 billion lei (4 billion euros), with net outflows of 9.8 million lei in June. "Industry statistics indicate that for 33 months we have had a sustained increase in the number of investors. We are talking about a monthly average of 14,000 new people who choose to invest in funds and this sustained growth indicates not only a high market potential but also a level of confidence in growth. In the 11 consecutive quarters of growth, there are also moments when a higher level of new investor inflows was recorded. The months with the highest number of new investors were February 2024, October 2024 and June 2025," said Jan Pricop, executive director of the Romanian Association of Fund Administrators. The top 5 funds over the past 12 months generated net annual returns between 11.3% and 22%. Over a 36-month horizon, the top performing funds had returns between 69.7% and 79.8%. The Romanian Fund Administrators Association is the non-governmental professional organization of operators in the Collective Investment Undertakings industry in Romania, which brings together 23 investment management companies (SAI) and alternative investment fund managers (AFIA), Fondul Proprietatea and four depository banks. Since 2007, AAF has been a member of the European Fund and Asset Management Association (EFAMA). The Association of Romanian Municipalities (AMR) proposed to the Prime Minister, in terms of reduction in the number of local police officers, that the norm be one police officer per 1,200 inhabitants, given the complexity of the problems that need to be managed, according to the executive president of the association, Emil Boc, mayor of Cluj-Napoca. His statements were made at the end of consultations with Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, Minister Cseke Attila and representatives of communes, cities, counties and municipalities in Romania on the reform of local administration. "It was a pragmatic, efficient, rational meeting, in which things were called as they are. (...) We discussed the package of austerity measures targeting local administration, obviously also coming up with proposals to improve this activity. We received positive responses to some, neutral responses to some, negative responses to others," said Emil Boc. He specified that AMR came up with the proposal that the number of local police officers be established by a norm of one local police officer per 1,200 inhabitants. "I understood the Government's option to reduce the number, for example, of local police officers. However, I proposed a balanced solution, namely: not one local police officer per 1,000 inhabitants, as the Government proposes, not one local police officer per 1,500 as it is now, but one local police officer per 1,200 inhabitants, given the great complexity of the problems that we, for example, large municipalities, county seats, have to organize compared to other administrative entities. It remained under analysis and we believe in a balanced judgment, so that we can continue to provide quality services. (...) You have to keep the city under control," Boc also declared. He also mentioned that the topic of the amounts of rebalancing money granted by the Government to the UATs in relation to the population figure was discussed. "In Cluj, we have 284,000 in the census, and in the Population Registry we have 330,000 - 340,000. Somewhere, 50,000 inhabitants are not taken into account when allocating financial resources. I also understand the size of the Government that there are many figures that do not correspond to reality, in the sense that there are people with only their name, in a city, a commune, a municipality, and they have gone abroad or have taken their citizenship and do not live in the city, that is also true. And here we tried to find a balance so as to find an accurate representation. We also understood the Government's position that there must be a standard criterion in relation to the European Union and this is the census, and we, not jokingly, and even seriously, said: if such reporting is done, why not apply "the census criterion from top to bottom to everything that exists in Romania in terms of electoral legislation," Boc emphasized. He pointed out that if the census figures were applied to the number of parliamentarians, there would be no need for a law reducing them to 300. "By directly applying the census number, we would reach 300 parliamentarians. And from there on, to local, county councilors and so on, which are related to the Population Register, when we hold elections for parliamentarians, for local councilors, for county councilors, and when we relate to other administrative activities, we relate to the census. And then, I said - here is a moment when we can make a structural reform of the Romanian state, let's relate to the census figures, but globally. (...) The Prime Minister, as usual, is receptive to such nuances, he said: I welcome this proposal made by AMR and we are analyzing it. But it is not the subject of the current discussions, package 2 does not contain such elements", Boc also stated. Border police and mountain rescuers found a hypothermic Ukrainian citizen on Monday night, who crossed the border into Romania through the Maramures Mountains, informs the head of the Baia Mare County Public Mountain Rescue Service, Dan Benga. "Four hours, that's how long the search and rescue intervention for the Ukrainian citizen took. The 38-year-old person, in an advanced state of dehydration, physical exhaustion and mild hypothermia, complained of pain in his left knee following a fall he suffered while running after being scared by a wild boar. At the base of the mountain, he was taken over by the relevant authorities, refusing further medical care," said Dan Benga.The extraction operation from the mountain was supported by Border Police crews from the Poienile de sub Munte and Viseu de Sus sectors, located near the Romanian-Ukrainian border. Representatives of cities, municipalities and counties agreed, during negotiations with the prime minister, to establish a single national salary scale for local administration, said on Tuesday Dan Carlan, president of the National Union of Municipal and City Employees in Romania (SCOR), which is part of the Columna Trade Union Federation. "Today's negotiation was a very difficult one. (...) We came out with several problems solved, in the sense that we are no longer talking about the mobility of leading civil servants within the municipal mayoralties, that mechanism through which once every five years, at the discretion of the political factor, the leading civil servants could be changed. We are no longer talking about the evaluation of leading civil servants by a commission from the prefecture, it has nothing to do with the activity that we carry out in the mayoralties at the end of the county. These two things have been eliminated. The meeting began with the hypothesis of a 20% reduction in salaries for those communes and cities, those mayoralties that cannot ensure their salary fund from their own income, only from local taxes and fees, and we came out with the balanced solution of establishing a unitary salary scale at the national level starting with January 1, 2026. And this salary scale cannot contain anything other than the principles of equity and balance that are also found as a milestone in the PNRR and the European Social Charter, that is, the principle of equal work, similar pay," Carlan stated, at the end of discussions with Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, Minister of Development, Cseke Attila, and Deputy Prime Minister Tanczos Barna. He added that "it was based on the hypothesis that 75% of mayors are currently unable to secure their staff salaries from local taxes and fees, which does not mean at all that the staff is oversized, but rather that the system of financing administrative-territorial units is deeply flawed." "I emphasized during the meeting that if 75% of mayors do not secure their salaries from their own income and only 25% can do it, when the state allocates amounts from income tax to balance local budgets, I don't know how it does it, that it gives 5 lei to those 25% who have and gives one leu to those 75% who do not. (...) The meeting began with the hypothesis, with the proposal, to the only family in the budgetary system, namely the local public administration, to apply a 20% sacrifice curve at the beginning of next year. We left with the understanding, with the solution, that for the local public administration a single salary scale will be established at the national level to ensure a balance, to remove the excesses, those extra ones, but to also ensure the subsistence minimum at the bottom, without there being a direct causal link between the apparent problem that 75% do not have the possibility to provide from their own income, because it is an erroneous local administration financing system," the unionist detailed. Carlan announced that the strike scheduled for Wednesday is postponed until the draft law on public administration reform is finalized. "On Monday, at 2:00 p.m., we will have a meeting to which we were invited by our minister, the Minister of Development and Public Administration. An opportunity to discuss from the union's perspective the things that still need to be corrected in this law. Tonight I will propose to my colleagues from the SCOR Column Federation and the SCOR National Union that we suspend, not stop, the protest calendar until the next day, after the draft law is published in decisional transparency by the Ministry of Development, that is, until we see which of our proposals have been incorporated into the draft normative act," Carlan specified. According to him, the biggest problem at the moment remains the way in which the reduction in the number of positions will be established. "It is very clear that the number of positions at the local administration level will decrease. Compared to the version that was proposed last week, in the first version of the project, there were many proposals, each associative structure came with proposals today, it will certainly be a different form, which has not yet been discussed. Our proposal is to maintain an element of uniformity in the method of calculating the number of positions. (...) The big problem is that the Government continues to maintain the hypothesis that everything that is collected in addition based on the increase in the amount of taxes and on the basis of coercive instruments will not remain at the local level, it will leave, it will fill the hole from the Government, which is completely inappropriate. You find that three quarters of the mayors are starving, come up with some measures to increase the level of revenues, but you take the same money and "You go and cover the Government's holes," the SCOR chairman also said. JERUSALEM, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Tuesday that 52 aid packages were airdropped earlier in the day across the Gaza Strip. According to the statement, the packages contained food supplies intended for residents in both southern and northern Gaza, as part of broader efforts to enhance the humanitarian response in the enclave. The operation was conducted in coordination with the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, and Egypt, it said. The IDF reported that its troops continued to operate in southern Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip, targeting weapons storage locations, while the Air Force struck dozens of targets across the strip over the past day. Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said that Israel should be responsible for security in Gaza. Speaking at an IDF recruitment base in central Israel, Katz added that "the IDF needs to be around and inside Gaza to protect the Israeli communities close to the Strip." The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip has surpassed 60,000, Gaza's health authorities said in a statement on Tuesday. During the past 24 hours, the Israeli military killed 112 people and wounded 637 others, bringing the total death toll to 60,034 and injuries to 145,870 since the Palestinian-Israeli conflict broke out in early October 2023, it added. Police officers from the Giurgiu Territorial Inspectorate of the Border Police together with Bulgarian police officers detected, during a joint operation carried out on national road 5 (DN 5), two people of Afghan and Iraqi origin who were trying to illegally cross the border, the General Inspectorate of the Border Police informs on Tuesday. The migrants were hidden in a specially arranged compartment in a bus."On July 27, 2025, at around 2:20 am, as part of a Blitz-type action, the Giurgiu border police, in collaboration with the Bulgarian police, stopped on DN 5, for control, a bus registered in Turkey, which was traveling on the Turkey-Germany route. The bus was driven a Turkish citizen, accompanied by a backup driver. Following the inspection of the means of transport, in the drivers' rest compartment, the police identified a specially arranged place, where two male persons, aged 47 and 58, respectively, were hidden. The persons in question did not have travel documents and did not meet the legal conditions for entry into Romania," specifies the General Inspectorate of the Border Police. Romania will not go to war and there is no reason for panic or alarm regarding the country's possible involvement in a military conflict, the government said on Tuesday in response to fake information circulated in the public space, which features Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan speaking about Romania's alleged involvement in an armed conflict, which misleads public opinion. "The Romanian state's decision is firm: Romania will not enter war. Romania is a safe country, a full member of the North Atlantic Alliance (NATO), benefiting from solid security guarantees that ensure the protection of its territory and citizens. There is no reason for panic or alarm regarding Romania's possible engagement in a military conflict. The state institutions are working within the normal parameters, and the social and economic life of the Romanian citizens and companies carries on under completely safe conditions," the government stated. The Executive also calls on all citizens to seek information from official and verified sources. "The spread of false information can generate unjustified panic and can seriously affect the climate of public trust. For correct and updated information, please consult the official websites and channels of the Romanian state institutions," the government advises. Historical-military reenactments and ceremonies honoring national heroes will take place from August to December at the Arch of Triumph in the Romanian capital. According to a press release sent to AGERPRES on Tuesday, the Cultural Center 'Brancoveanu Palaces at the Gates of Bucharest' and the Military Tradition Association (a Romanian reenactment group affiliated with the Romanian Land Forces, editor's note) invite the general public to take part in a series of authentic historical reenactments, solemn ceremonies, and commemorative moments honoring the heroes who shaped Romania's history with their sacrifice. "The Military Tradition Association brings to life emblematic scenes from the past, featuring carefully documented military uniforms, authentic equipment or faithful replicas, so that history can be understood and felt with respect and emotion. Through these events, the association continues its mission to preserve Romania's military memory, to honor the sacrifice of those who came before us, and to actively contribute to the patriotic education of future generations," the release states. Key events in the program include: * August 2 - Reenactments of the Battles in Southern Moldova (Cosna, Marasesti, Ciresoaia), Navy Day (August 15, 1902), and Romania's entry into World War I (August 14, 1916); * August 23 - Commemoration of the 1944 Armed Insurrection, a pivotal event where Romania switched its allegiance from the Axis powers to the Allies during World War II; * September 20 - Firefighters' Day commemoration; * October 25 - Celebration of Romanian Armed Forces Day and the birthday of King Michael I (born October 25, 1921), a symbol of royal honor and resistance; * December 13 - Tribute to the National Military Circle, founded on December 15, 1876, as a center of military culture and tradition. All events will take place between 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM and will be accessible to individuals with hearing impairments. The events will be held at the Arch of Triumph, a national symbol of the fight for freedom, unity, and dignity. Increasing taxation cannot be a solution for the future, as long as public spending is not reduced, consider representatives of the IMM [SME] Romania employers' confederation, referring to the evolution of income and expenditure in the first six months. According to information provided by the Ministry of Finance, the execution of the general consolidated budget in the first six months of 2025 ended with a deficit of 69.8 billion lei, or 3.68% of GDP, compared to the deficit of 63.67 billion lei, or 3.62% of GDP for the first six months of 2024. "We note that the deficit of the general consolidated budget increased in one month by 5.57 billion lei, approximately 1 billion euros, from 64.23 billion lei, on May 31, 2025, to 69.80 billion lei, on June 30, 2025. Total revenues collected in 6 months stood at 310.52 billion lei, registering an increase of 54.52 billion lei in one month (almost 11 billion euros) compared to the first 5 months of the year 2025, when they were worth 256 billion lei. The consolidated general budget expenditures in the first 6 months were 380.32 billion lei, registering an increase of 12.1% compared to the same period of the previous year. (...) An increase in expenditures by 60.09 billion lei in one month is noted, from 320.23 billion lei in the first 5 months, to 380.32 billion lei on June 30, 2025. From the increase in expenditures recorded in one month, of 60.09 billion lei, it is observed that 14.39 billion lei represents personnel expenses, the largest increase in total expenses (from 71.07 billion lei in the first 5 months, to 85.46 billion lei on June 30, 2025)", the representatives of the employers' confederation say. In this context, IMM Romania believes that there is a need to reduce public spending, especially personnel spending. "Although there is a constant increase in state budget revenues, each month, public spending increases at a higher rate. The lack of administrative reforms cannot be compensated for only by increasing taxation for the private sector. It is necessary to reduce public spending, especially personnel spending, which increases each month above the level of revenues. The increasing pressure of increased taxes on entrepreneurs and the population will determine a reduction in consumption and implicitly a decrease in budget revenues. Increasing taxation cannot be a solution for the future, as long as public spending is not reduced", IMM Romania representatives say. A magistrate's pension should be capped at a maximum of 70% of their last net salary, rather than the current 80% of the gross salary, Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan told a press conference held Tuesday at the Victoria Palace, where he presented a series of proposals regarding magistrates' pensions. "With regard to the pension amount, most countries calculate it based on the salaries received in the final years of service - typically four or five years - and use this average to determine a percentage. In some countries, there is a fully contributory system, with no distinction between magistrates and other civil servants. In most cases, there is a formula that results in a pension of around 60-70% of the net earnings from the last years of work. Based on this principle and in line with both Romanian legislation and Constitutional Court rulings, our proposal is to cap a magistrate's pension at no more than 70% of their last net salary - not 80% of the gross salary as currently applied, which results in pensions exceeding net salary levels. This new threshold would still place us at the higher end of European regulations," explained Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan."This is an important adjustment, bringing these pension levels closer to normality - not just in terms of the percentage of net salary, but also regarding the standard retirement age. (...) This afternoon, we will release the full legislative texts so that they can be reviewed. In the coming days, we will hold discussions with all stakeholders in order to present, debate, and gather feedback or suggestions for improvement. Our goal is to finalize the legislative package by next week," Bolojan announced. Given the Romanian state's limited financial capacity to sustain current public administration spending, the reform provides a timely opportunity to address long-standing inefficiencies, conveyed Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan on Tuesday, at consultations with representatives of local government associations regarding the proposed administrative reform. According to a government press release, the prime minister, alongside Deputy Prime Minister Tanczos Barna and Minister of Development, Public Works, and Administration, Cseke Attila, continued consultations on Tuesday with representatives of local public administration associations. The talks focused on a package of reforms currently in an advanced drafting stage at the governmental level. "The Romanian state can no longer financially sustain the current level of public administration spending. We now have the opportunity, through local administrative reform, to correct these imbalances. We will continue consultations in order to gave a set of measures approve that will reduce public spending while improving services for citizens," Ilie Bolojan stated, as quoted in the release. During the working meeting at Victoria Palace of Government, several proposals were analyzed, including measures to reduce public spending by cutting the number of employees in town halls, local and county councils; introducing a single salary grid for local public administration; and increasing accountability and performance standards in the civil service, reads the cited source. Another proposal under review refers to limiting the number of local police officers and avoiding the overlap of responsibilities between Local Police and the National Police, the release further reads. "Discussions also focused on the reform of property taxation and its impact at the community level, considering that this reform represents a milestone assumed by Romania under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRRP)," the release notes. The agenda also included topics such as the transfer of assets to local governments and the decentralization of gambling license authorization. Representatives of the National Union of County Councils, the Association of Municipalities, the Association of Towns, and the Association of Communes presented their proposals regarding the local administration reform package, as well as feedback on specific local issues. Prime minister Ilie Bolojan on Tuesday marked the National Anthem Day by sending a message in which he emphasised that the relevance of the anthem it's the same today as it was during the revolutionary movements of 1848, in terms of the need for unity and courage. "National Anthem Day is a good moment to remember the reason why "Awaken Thee, Romanian!" was written. Our anthem appeared during the revolutionary movements of 1848, in response to the need for unity and courage. In those difficult times, Romanians were fighting for rights, freedom and dignity," Ilie Bolojan said."Today we are no longer at war, but we are faced with real challenges: a society that needs trust, institutions that need to start functioning and an economy that needs to deliver results, not just promises. The Anthem's message - that of not standing aside - is just as relevant. Each of us has a share of responsibility. Happy National Anthem Day! Happy birthday, Romania!" the prime minister said. Romania exported cereals and cereal-based products worth EUR 1.084 billion in the first four months of 2025, marking a 12.1% decline compared to the same period last year, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INS). During the same period, imports of cereals and cereal-based products reached EUR 542.3 million, up 2.12% from January - April 2024, resulting in a trade surplus of EUR 541.8 million for this segment. Between January and April 2025, Romania exported wheat and meslin (a wheat-rye mixture) worth EUR 488.4 million, and corn exports totaled EUR 331.8 million. Cereal exports to European Union (EU) countries amounted to EUR 333.9 million, with the highest volumes going to Italy (EUR 104.4 million), Spain (EUR 43.4 million), Poland (EUR 28.4 million), and Bulgaria (EUR 27.7 million). Imports from EU countries totaled EUR 173.5 million, mainly from Bulgaria (EUR 87.8 million), Hungary (EUR 31.8 million), and France (EUR 28.5 million). The President of the Senate, liberal Mircea Abrudean, believes that Romania needs stability through courageous reforms, stating that ''the time has come to definitively close the era of privileges''. "I support the steps announced by Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, both regarding the reform of special pensions and the streamlining of state-owned companies. These measures send a clear signal: Romania is moving forward with firm, committed and necessary decisions. They show that the time has come to definitively close the era of privileges. We need fairness and efficiency in all areas, without exception. Only in this way can we build a modern and fair state, in the service of the citizen", he wrote on Facebook. Camelia Bogdan, the judge who was twice excluded from the judiciary, made a series of serious accusations against the Romanian justice system and magistrates after losing a lawsuit against the Crescent company. The court decided that Camelia Bogdan's statements regarding Crescent were unlawful. According to the Political Investigation Group (GIP), Camelia Bogdan is accusing a "legal error," just as she did last year when she lost a lawsuit against Grivco. Camelia Bogdan has lost another lawsuit. On July 11, 2025, the Bucharest Court ruled that her statements against Crescent were unlawful. In addition, the court ordered Camelia Bogdan to pay 24,000 lei in court costs. Following the decision of the Bucharest Court, Camelia Bogdan launched a new series of attacks and threats against magistrates and the Romanian judicial system. Camelia Bogdan announced that she "publicly condemns the decision of the Bucharest Court" and accused the court of issuing a "profoundly illegal" decision. Although the statements referred to in the trial were made after her dismissal from the judiciary, the former judge said that the decision to dismiss her case "is a violation of the principle of judicial independence" . Camelia Bogdan accused the Bucharest Court of committing a "legal error" in its decision against her The former judge threatened to file a complaint to the European Council and the European Commission, claiming that the Romanian justice system does not support her. Camelia Bogdan's reaction is similar to the one she had in January 2024, after losing another case at the Bucharest Court of Appeal, against Grivco. The court had found that the statements made by the former judge about the company were unlawful, following her dismissal from the judiciary The former judge said at the time that the judges who did not rule in her favor had committed an illegal act ("It is illegal," "It is a misapplication of the law," "I was struck by the violation of civil law"). Camelia Bogdan accused her former colleagues of incompetence ("The panel demonstrated a complete lack of knowledge of the institution of civil liability"), says GIP. Camelia Bogdan, who is currently employed by an offshore company in the Cayman Islands, has been twice excluded from the judiciary for violating regulations on the random allocation of cases. "Camelia Bogdan, an employee of an offshore company in the Cayman Islands, said that Romania is a 'third-rank country' where 'you're not allowed to talk about money laundering'". She threatened to show "international authorities what kind of country this is". Finally, Camelia Bogdan, who was expelled from the judiciary after falsifying the Ecris system, creating a ghost panel and handing down an illegal sentence, which was subsequently annulled by the High Court, claimed that she was the victim of a plot by the judicial system," GIP said in a post on social media. STOCKHOLM, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The historic Rosenbad building, nestled by the mirror-like waters of Lake Malaren, is drawing international attention this week as China and the United States convene their third round of high-level trade talks. Held at the office of Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, the Stockholm meeting follows previous China-U.S. trade talks in Geneva in May and London in June. These discussions are part of ongoing efforts to ease bilateral tensions and de-escalate the tariff disputes that have strained the global economy. Reporters began assembling outside the venue early Monday morning. By the time trade officials arrived around 2 p.m. local time (1200 GMT), over 60 journalists from around the world had gathered. A Reuters reporter expressed hope for "something concrete -- maybe a further tariff delay or a pathway to easing duties." Prime Minister Kristersson welcomed the event on the social media platform X. "I look forward to meeting with representatives of the U.S. and the People's Republic of China on Swedish soil. Welcome to Sweden!" Since May, both countries have been working to implement the consensus reached during a recent presidential call. Central to these efforts is the reduction of excessive tariffs and a shared aim to cool down frictions between the world's two largest economies. The Stockholm talks mark the third such meeting in three months and came just days before the expiration of a 90-day tariff truce agreed upon by the two sides. The approaching Aug. 12 deadline adds urgency to the dialogue, underscoring both countries' commitment to resolving their differences through negotiation rather than confrontation. Describing the Stockholm meeting as a "positive development," Kristersson noted that its implications go far beyond bilateral trade. "These discussions significantly impact global trade and the world economy." Ulf Pehrsson, chairman of the Sweden-China Trade Council, echoed this sentiment. "Trade wars -- there are no winners," he said. "For many Swedish companies with stakes in both the U.S. and Chinese markets, maintaining open lines of communication is vital." He praised the ongoing talks as "steps in the right direction" and stressed that any move to reduce tensions would be welcomed by Swedish businesses. The third trade talk has captivated international observers. From Geneva to London and now Stockholm, this sustained momentum toward dialogue is widely viewed as critical during a period of economic uncertainty. Finland's national broadcaster Yle noted that both sides are striving to keep communication channels open, a gesture seen as potentially beneficial for the broader global trade landscape. "It is much better to talk than not to talk," said Philippe Monnier, a Swiss economist and former executive director of the Greater Geneva Berne area, Western Switzerland's investment promotion agency. "And it is very important to continue talking in a good spirit." Jan Knoerich, reader in China and the global political economy at King's College London, noted that "while it will be difficult to resolve some of the deeper economic and trade differences in the short term, further bilateral talks could help ease tensions and lead to incremental progress in certain areas." Analysts agree that meaningful progress will require both sides to meet each other halfway and translate high-level consensus into actionable policies that restore confidence in the China-U.S. trade relationship. As the negotiations move into what observers are calling "deep waters," the complexity of the topics increases. This phase demands frank exchanges, mutual understanding, and a willingness to bridge differences through constructive dialogue. History has shown that stabilizing China-U.S. trade relations serves the interests of both nations and benefits the world at large, observers noted. The buzz outside the Rosenbad building has drawn curious onlookers. Among them was a tourist from Australia, who chatted with the press corps. "We're already feeling the weight of high tariffs. Good luck to you all!" he said. A Cambodian mother looks after her child at a refuge in Oddar Meanchey province, Cambodia, on July 29, 2025. The Cambodian Ministry of National Defense on Tuesday rejected the statement of the Thai army that accused Cambodia of attacking Thailand hours after a ceasefire entered into force. "On behalf of the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense, I would like to reject the statement of the Thai army spokesperson that claimed that fighting occurred, violating the ceasefire agreement," Cambodian Ministry of National Defense's Spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said in a press briefing. (Photo by Van Pov/Xinhua) PHNOM PENH, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The Cambodian Ministry of National Defense on Tuesday rejected the statement of the Thai army that accused Cambodia of attacking Thailand hours after a ceasefire entered into force. "On behalf of the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense, I would like to reject the statement of the Thai army spokesperson that claimed that fighting occurred, violating the ceasefire agreement," Cambodian Ministry of National Defense's Spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said in a press briefing. She said the Cambodian armed forces have strictly implemented the ceasefire agreement that took effect since midnight on Monday. Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said on Tuesday that small clashes after the ceasefire came into effect could be caused by undisciplined Cambodian soldiers and that the Thai side has responded proportionately, and the situation "is calm now." Cambodian evacuees from the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict are pictured at a refuge in Oddar Meanchey province, Cambodia, on July 29, 2025. The Cambodian Ministry of National Defense on Tuesday rejected the statement of the Thai army that accused Cambodia of attacking Thailand hours after a ceasefire entered into force. "On behalf of the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense, I would like to reject the statement of the Thai army spokesperson that claimed that fighting occurred, violating the ceasefire agreement," Cambodian Ministry of National Defense's Spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said in a press briefing. (Photo by Van Pov/Xinhua) Cambodian evacuees from the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict gather for relief supplies at a refuge in Oddar Meanchey province, Cambodia, on July 29, 2025. The Cambodian Ministry of National Defense on Tuesday rejected the statement of the Thai army that accused Cambodia of attacking Thailand hours after a ceasefire entered into force. "On behalf of the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense, I would like to reject the statement of the Thai army spokesperson that claimed that fighting occurred, violating the ceasefire agreement," Cambodian Ministry of National Defense's Spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said in a press briefing. (Photo by Van Pov/Xinhua) Cambodian evacuees from the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict are pictured at a refuge in Oddar Meanchey province, Cambodia, on July 29, 2025. The Cambodian Ministry of National Defense on Tuesday rejected the statement of the Thai army that accused Cambodia of attacking Thailand hours after a ceasefire entered into force. "On behalf of the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense, I would like to reject the statement of the Thai army spokesperson that claimed that fighting occurred, violating the ceasefire agreement," Cambodian Ministry of National Defense's Spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said in a press briefing. (Photo by Van Pov/Xinhua) This photo taken on July 29, 2025 shows a refuge for Cambodian evacuees from the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict in Oddar Meanchey province, Cambodia. The Cambodian Ministry of National Defense on Tuesday rejected the statement of the Thai army that accused Cambodia of attacking Thailand hours after a ceasefire entered into force. "On behalf of the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense, I would like to reject the statement of the Thai army spokesperson that claimed that fighting occurred, violating the ceasefire agreement," Cambodian Ministry of National Defense's Spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said in a press briefing. (Photo by Van Pov/Xinhua) Single-Cloud vs. Multi-Cloud for Streaming Workflow Migration Choosing between single-cloud and multi-cloud strategies is critical when migrating streaming workflows because each offers distinct trade-offs in control, scalability, and vendor dependence. LiveXs Corey Behnke, Cerberus Techs Chris Clarke, and TV2 Denmarks Loke Dupont make the case for choosing (and limiting yourself to) a single cloud provider when crossing to the cloud side while emphasizing the importance of leveraging specific strengths and services offered by each provider in this clip from Mays Streaming Media Connect. Stitching It Together LiveX Co-Founder and Lead Producer Corey Behnke opens the conversation by declaring that as a product manager he gets more requests for multi-cloud and that there are some cloud providers that are more broadcast-forward than others. That said, he asks Cerberus Tech Co-Founder and CRO Chris Clarke to explain the benefits of choosing a single provider to start. Clarke shares that we are big multi-cloud proponents at Cerberus Tech, but I completely echo what youre saying: You need to start somewhere. Theres no point in coming out all guns blazing. He alludes to the one cloud provider that every single one of us started off withIt was the one that offered free credits, free tiers. He could use it to start building workflows and just trying to see what sticks, he says. [T]hat same cloud provider has then gone on to deploy a very specific set of media-related products that dont exist in any other cloud platform. Based on a conversation Clarke had with that cloud provider, [O]ne of their biggest issues is people thinking that they are a managed service provider. Theyre not. Theyre a toolkit provider. He likens this provider to the Home Depot: You can go in there and you can choose whatever you want off the shelf, but how you stitch it all together, thats on you or thats on a third-party systems integrator or someone whos going to build a dashboard for you. They provide all of the bits and they work very well. Theyre very dependable. They do exactly what they say that theyre going to do, but theyre not an end-to-end system. This means youve got to really think about how you are going to stitch it together because the way that you stitch it together is different [from] the person who came before you, he advises. But there are easy ways of seeing whether your workflows will work in one cloud over anotherjust to get started. There will come a time when you need to think about your approach outside of any one cloud providers offerings, so that in the event that you need to, you can deploy it into another, Clarke notes. Two Ways to Come at Multi-Cloud TV2 Denmark Staff Software Engineer Loke Dupont speaks next, building on Clarkes comments to agree on starting with one cloud provider and selectively using services from others based on specific needs. He calls out Amazon Web Services (AWS) for doing a lot of work to help enable the stitching together of workflows on different platforms, especially in its acquisition of Elemental Technologies, and it continues to be an area of focus, while Microsoft used to be better about it but let its support fizzle out. Dupont acknowledges that he might be biased because he uses AWS. I think for most people, you dont need to be multi-cloud in the way that some people use that term, Dupont asserts. I think theres two ways of viewing multi-cloud, right? One is that we run the exact same workload on multiple cloud vendors platforms. That doesnt truly leverage the benefits of the cloud providers, however, because your software and process have to be generic enough to run on everything. Two is what Dupont recommends you do, which is to adapt to each cloud providers strengths. This means, for example, using one service from Azure, another from Google, and another from AWS across a solution. Dupont elaborates, Of course, youve got to be careful about not gaining a lot of dependencies doing that, but sure, if Microsoft has[, for example,] a better service for transcription of video, then use that service there. And it doesnt mean you have to run your live channel in that same cloud. You can just use that component. That part of multi-cloud, I think, is what a lot of people end up doing very quickly. He doesnt see the benefit to running the exact same workload with the exact same machines and the exact same cluster across multiple cloud providers. Dupont continues, I dont think there really is a benefit because youre not going to get a lot more resilience in that if you use a single cloud provider and use multiple regions, and thats a hell of a lot easier to engineer. Hes also not experiencing the vendors squeezing you for more money, so its not necessary to hedge bets against one of them, he adds. Running that same workload across providers is also going to increase operational issuesits not worth it to have to double the operations staff, Dupont notes. Dont do it unless theres a very clear reason or unless youre of course a vendor that needs to operate stuff, depending on which customer cloud preference they are. Thats a different scenario, he says. But for most people who are not selling this to others and just running for themselves, stick to one cloud and use mix-and-match services from [other ones] depending on what you need, basically. Regional Downtimes and Egress Costs Duponts mention of regions sparks a thought for Behnke: Theres something I always tell my customers, is that its very rare for a cloud provider to go down as an entire service. Its typically a regional downtime that occurs. And so a lot of our approach with encoding live events or really important events will be to go to multi-region. I stream to Virginia and Oregon or California and London. And so I do find that that approach is definitely beneficial. Another of Duponts points made Behnke think of fees from the providers: [W]hen you were talking about using a service and then using another servicejust because I cant help myselfin my mind was egress cost, he says. Microsoft Azure would love nothing more than to use transcription and then send it out, going into another cloud provider, then sending it out. Its like the egress slope just goes huge [with] ingress and egress. Join conference chair Andy Beach and other streaming media experts in person Oct. 68 in Santa Monica, CA, for more thought leadership, actionable insights, and lively debate at Streaming Media 2025. Registration is open! Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Related Articles A U.S. airman stationed at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, shown here, is facing charges in a German court stemming from a head-on collision on the autobahn A60 in May. The crash killed a 23-year-old German woman, and the airman is accused of negligent homicide in her death. (Jennifer H. Svan/Stars and Stripes) KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany A Spangdahlem Air Base airman is facing a negligent homicide charge in German court over a wrong-way autobahn crash that killed a 23-year-old German woman. Charges against the unidentified airman stemming from the May 3 head-on collision were announced Tuesday in a statement by the Trier public prosecutors office, which took jurisdiction in the case. The Trier District Court issued an arrest warrant for the airman, who is in U.S. military custody, according to prosecutors. In addition to negligent homicide, hes also charged with negligent bodily harm and endangering road traffic. The crash occurred on the A60 near Landscheid a few miles east of the base in the rural Eifel region. Prosecutors say the airman had a blood alcohol level of 0.14% at the time of the crash. The legal limit in Germany is 0.05% in most cases. Driving the wrong way in his Jeep Wrangler, he collided with a small car carrying three people. The German woman driving the car was taken to a hospital, where she later died of her injuries. Two 24-year-old passengers also suffered serious injuries. The airman was treated for minor injuries. Germany has primary jurisdiction in cases involving a U.S. service member and a German citizen, but it usually waives that right in accordance with the 1951 NATO Status of Forces Agreement. German authorities filed a negligent homicide charge against a U.S. airman stationed at Spangdahlem Air Base over a wrong-way collision on the A60 autobahn in May that killed a 23-year-old German driver. (Stars and Stripes) However, the agreement allows the waiver to be withdrawn within 21 days for egregious offenses such as robbery, rape or crimes that result in death. Prosecutors decided to revoke the waiver against the Spangdahlem airman, meaning the criminal proceedings will take place in German courts. A trial date has not been set. The prosecutors office said in May that the decision to retain jurisdiction was based on the number of victims involved. A trial in the German court system would allow for family members of the deceased and the victims who were injured to participate as joint plaintiffs with their own attorneys, in contrast with procedures in American military courtrooms. In the past six years, German authorities have ceded jurisdiction to the U.S. military in at least two fatal cases involving American service members. One was the highly publicized murder trial of a Spangdahlem airman in October. A military court found Airman 1st Class Grant Harrison not guilty of unpremeditated murder in the 2023 stabbing death of martial artist Michael Ovsjannikov in Wittlich. Harrisons acquittal sparked outrage in the communities around Spangdahlem and led to several protests outside the base. Residents at the protests said the outcome had created mistrust in the U.S. militarys judicial system. The sea drone Ranger returns to its homeport, Naval Base Ventura County, in Port Hueneme, Calif., following an exercise in January 2024. The Navy is looking to industry for a wide range of new drones. (Gavin McKenna/U.S. Navy) The U.S. Navy said this week that it wants new ideas from industry on how it can ramp up production of unmanned attack vessels, marking the latest push by the service to incorporate more sea drones into the fleet. The Navy issued a solicitation for companies to submit proposals for an array of modular sea drones that leverage cutting-edge technology and can counter evolving threats. Proposed solutions will be swiftly prototyped, the Navy said. The aim is for the sea drones to seamlessly maneuver with other Navy surface vessels or operate independently. The Navy is seeking three unmanned systems with varying capabilities, payloads and ranges, but did not specify a timeline for deployment. Drone warfare has featured prominently in the Russia-Ukraine war, which the Pentagon has studied closely for lessons from the ongoing conflict. The drone ships Ranger, foreground, and Mariner transit the Pacific Ocean during an exercise in September 2023. The Navy is searching for new ideas from industry in its push to ramp up production of unmanned attack vessels. (Jesse Monford/U.S. Navy) The Navy sea drone Nomad transits the Pacific Ocean to participate in exercise Rim of the Pacific in June 2022. (Tyler Fraser/U.S. Navy) While most of the fighting has involved ground forces and their deployment of drones to take out opposing troop formations and combat vehicles, Ukraine also has used unmanned systems at sea. At the start of the full-scale war in 2022, Ukraine possessed only a small navy. But the countrys creative use of sea drones enabled Kyiv to destroy numerous Russian warships and force the Kremlin to pull back its naval position in the Black Sea. The approach has highlighted the risks unmanned systems pose to larger navies. But it also has put a spotlight on how such systems could help the U.S. Navy better counter Chinas fast-growing fleet in the Asia-Pacific region. There is a mismatch between the U.S. Navy force structure and the requirements posed by (Chinas) posturing, stated a July 17 report by the Rand Corp., which asserted that the Navy lacks sufficient ships to meet its global security commitments. To address its unmanned vessel needs, the Navy should use the domestic industrial base to the extent that it can, but also consider tapping into the ship-construction capability of countries such as South Korea, Japan and Germany. If the U.S. industrial base does not support the requirement, there are options with its partners and allies, the report said. USS George Washington carrier strike group participates in Talisman Sabre 25 exercises in the Timor Sea near Australia on July 18, 2025. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier sails in formation with the guided-missile cruiser USS Robert Smalls and the guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup. (U.S. Navy photo) The aircraft carrier USS George Washington and its strike group of warships and aircraft are searching the Timor Sea off Australia for a sailor reported missing Monday, the Navy confirmed. The search-and-rescue operations for a possible sailor overboard began after the command staff received word of a missing crew member. The ship initiated search-and-rescue procedures after receiving reports of a possible sailor overboard, the USS George Washington said in a statement released by the Navy. Australian Defence Force and Australian Border Force assets are also supporting the U.S. Navy with the search-and-rescue efforts. The sailors name is being withheld at this time, the Navy said. The search includes the destroyer USS Shoup, the cruiser USS Robert Smalls, Helicopter Squadron 12 and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 78. Fixed-wing aircraft from the USS George Washington, a Nimitz-class carrier, are also involved in the search. The George Washington strike group is in the Timor Sea as part of the Talisman Sabre 25 exercise. Talisman Sabre is the largest bilateral military exercise between Australia and the United States, advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific by strengthening relationships and interoperability among key allies and partners, while enhancing our collective capabilities to respond to a wide array of potential security concerns, the Navy said in a statement issued July 18. The exercise is the first deployment for the George Washington since it moved from San Diego to Navy Base-Fleet Activities Yokosuka in Japan. It replaced the USS Ronald Reagan, which is undergoing scheduled maintenance at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard at Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton near Seattle. Kendra Brokaw and her son, Lincoln, explore an interactive toy station at the Army Community Service annex on Camp Humphreys, South Korea, July 22, 2025. (Trevares Johnson/Stars and Stripes) CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea A summer playgroup for infants and toddlers, sponsored by the Exceptional Family Member Program at the largest U.S. military base overseas, offers more than just a social outlet for children and their parents. It also allows health care professionals to casually observe the children for early signs of development delays or disabilities, said Humphreys EFMP coordinator, Sara Ortiz. The playgroup, active at the base for the past four years, meets twice a month at the Army Community Service annex, she told Stars and Stripes during a session on July 17. Laughter filled the room as about 30 children played alongside their parents. Some gravitated toward group play, while others preferred to explore on their own. Many favored simpler options, such as building blocks, over more intricate toys. Meanwhile, a rotating team of specialists speech, occupational and physical therapists and a developmental pediatrician from the bases Educational and Developmental Intervention Services interacted with the children and their parents. They can get some help in the early 0-to-3 child development because thats a critical time for children to grow and develop, said Anna Suh, a nurse specializing in families and children, said during a session on July 22. Suh and other specialists keep an eye on the childrens physical coordination, cognitive thinking, communication and social skills. Some families attend purely for social interaction, while others are referred by health care providers. Its nice to be surrounded by other people who are going through what you may be going through, as far as maybe their kid isnt hitting certain specific milestones, said Brandy Jones, a mother and Army spouse attending the July 22 playgroup. The summer session, dubbed Play to Learn, is open to children ages 3 and younger. During the rest of the year, the program meets weekly on Tuesdays and is divided into two groups: One monitored like the summer sessions and another specifically for children identified as neurodiverse. Ortiz is an Army veteran and the mother of a child with special needs. Toddlers and parents take part in early learning activities during a morning play session at the Army Community Service annex on Camp Humphreys, South Korea, July 22, 2025. (Trevares Johnson/Stars and Stripes) Sohyeon Geum shares a laugh with her son, Michael Stringfellow, during a playgroup at the Army Community Service annex on Camp Humphreys, South Korea, July 22, 2025. (Trevares Johnson/Stars and Stripes) Books on ADHD, autism and parenting fill a resource shelf at the Army Community Service annex on Camp Humphreys, South Korea, July 21, 2025. (Trevares Johnson/Stars and Stripes) Its important to me because we are supporting our military families, and when you have a family member that has special medical or educational needs, they are the most vulnerable in our population, she said. At the end of the day, its to support families. In addition to the playgroup, the program offers sensory-friendly movie nights, a sensory afternoon group, and a lending locker where families can check out sensory-friendly toys and activities. Sensory friendly refers to environments, products, or experiences designed to reduce sensory overload and accommodate diverse sensory needs, according to the SensoryFriendly.net website. These spaces are intended to be welcoming for individuals with sensory sensitivities, including those with autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder or sensory processing differences. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force fires its Type 12 surface-to-ship missile for the first time in July 2023, during the Talisman Sabre exercise in Australia. (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Japan plans to deploy upgraded long-range missiles on its southernmost main island by spring as it continues to bolster defenses in the Nansei Islands, according to local media. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force is finalizing arrangements to station an upgraded version of its Type-12 surface-to-ship missile at Camp Kengun in Kumamoto prefecture on Kyushu by March 31, Kyodo News reported Monday, citing unnamed government sources. Defense Minister Gen Nakatani confirmed Tuesday that the ministry intends to deploy the missiles this fiscal year but is still evaluating potential locations. The Ministry of Defense intends to continue working to build standoff defense capabilities more quickly in light of the most severe and complex security environment since the end of the war, Nakatani said at a regular press conference in Tokyo. Japan faces mounting security concerns from China, which contests Japans claim to the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, along with North Koreas advancing ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs. Nakatani also cited Russia, which has participated in recent joint military training with China near Japan, in the ministrys 2025 white paper. A ministry spokesperson declined to say by email Tuesday how many missiles will be delivered. Some Japanese government officials speak to the media only on condition of anonymity. The upgraded Type-12 missile, a successor to the Type-88, has an extended range of approximately 620 miles, up from 62 miles. Positioning the missiles on Kyushu would place parts of Chinas coast and North Korea within range. In March, North Korea criticized the planned deployment, accusing Japan of promoting a history of aggression and possessing preemptive strike capability, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency. Japan also plans to deploy the missiles at Camp Yufuin in Oita prefecture, also on Kyushu, and at Vice-Camp Katsuren on Okinawa, Kyodo reported. Japan conducted three successful test launches of the upgraded missile in October at the Air Systems Research Center on Niijima, an island southwest of Tokyo. In 2023, the Ground Self-Defense Force opened a missile base on Ishigaki Island, at the far end of the Nansei chain stretching from Kyushu to Taiwan. The base houses Type-12 and Type-03 surface-to-air missiles, aimed at countering Chinas growing presence in waters around Taiwan and the East China Sea. KUALA LUMPUR, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The producer price index (PPI) for local production declined by 3.7 percent in the second quarter of 2025, as compared to a 0.3 percent decrease in the first quarter of 2025, official data showed Monday. The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) said in a statement on Monday that the mining sector significantly declined by 13.7 percent, followed by manufacturing (-3.4 percent) and electricity and gas supply (-0.6 percent) sectors. However, agriculture, forestry and fishing, and water supply increased by 1.4 percent and 0.2 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, on a quarter-on-quarter basis, the PPI registered a decline of 2.3 percent, in contrast to a 1 percent increase recorded in the previous quarter. This decrease was primarily driven by contractions in agriculture, forestry and fishing, as well as mining and manufacturing sectors. Palestinians gather to collect humanitarian aid from a distribution point in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza, on Sunday, July 20, 2025. (Ahmad Salem/Bloomberg) Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the U.K. would formally recognize a Palestinian state by the United Nations General Assembly in September if Israel does not stop its war in Gaza. British recognition for Palestine will come if Israel doesnt take substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, including agreeing to a ceasefire, committing to a pathway to peace that revives the prospect of a two-state solution and making clear there will be no annexations in the West Bank, Starmer said on Tuesday in a televised statement following an emergency meeting of his cabinet. He also made clear that on the Palestinian side, Hamas must release all Israeli hostages, disarm, and play no further part in the governance of Gaza. Now is the moment to act, Starmer said. We see starving babies, children too weak to stand, images that will stay with us for a lifetime. The suffering must end. The British premier who spoke about the situation in Gaza this week with Donald Trump during the U.S. presidents visit to Scotland is seeking to show hes seized of the issue after domestic pressure ratcheted up for him to recognize Palestine. Its unclear what effect Britains move will have on the conflict. London has had minimal influence so far and Starmers involvement has largely been limited to calling for a ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages, while working on humanitarian efforts in Gaza. U.K. relations with Israel are also at a low ebb after Britain suspended some arms export licenses to Israel and sanctioned two Israeli ministers for inciting violence against Palestinians. Our goal remains a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state, Starmer said. But right now that goal is under pressure like never before. Cabinet ministers, opposition parties and backbench Members of Parliament had all called on him to follow the lead of French President Emmanuel Macron, who said last week that he would formally endorse Palestinian statehood at the UN gathering, prompting a backlash from the U.S. and Israel. Starmers Labour administration had maintained that its a matter of when not if Britain recognizes Palestine, but the premier has always said it must come at the appropriate point during a structured process leading to lasting peace and a two-state solution That position saw Starmer face a chorus of criticism from Labour politicians who have argued he should be doing more to pressure Israel into ending its operations in Gaza. The war, triggered when Hamas militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and abducting 250, has seen nearly 60,000 Palestinians killed in the subsequent Israeli offensive, according to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry, as well as leaving much of the Palestinian territory in ruins. As aid groups reported widespread starvation, more than 250 MPs, including over 100 from Labour, signed a letter calling on the U.K. government to immediately recognize Palestine as a state. Those frustrated with Starmers slowness in recognizing Palestinian statehood include some cabinet ministers, Bloomberg reported last week. Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn and Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy had recently urged Starmer and his Foreign Secretary David Lammy to move more quickly on the issue, people familiar with the matter said. Ultimately the only way to bring this humanitarian crisis to an end is through a long-term settlement, so we are supporting the U.S. Egyptian and Qatari efforts to secure a vital ceasefire, Starmer said. That ceasefire must be sustainable and it must lead to a wider peace plan which we are developing with our international partners. The conflict remains politically sensitive for the center-left party, which was embroiled in a years-long antisemitism scandal under the leadership of Starmers predecessor Jeremy Corbyn. Starmers Labour is also under pressure in domestic opinion polls, currently trailing the populist right-wing Reform U.K. party led by Trumps friend Nigel Farage. Last week, Corbyn announced he would be setting up a new left-wing party to challenge Labour from the left on issues such as Gaza, giving the premier another political factor to consider. Nonetheless, a firmer stance by Starmer on Palestinian statehood risks clouding his broadly positive relations with Trump. Macrons decision to recognize Palestine was denounced by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio as reckless and drew scorn from the president. Today the United Kingdom is joining the momentum initiated by France for the recognition of the State of Palestine, said French Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, responding to the British announcement on social media. Together, through this pivotal decision and our combined efforts, we are putting an end to the endless cycle of violence and reopening the prospect of peace in the region. With assistance from Samy Adghirni. The B-17 Sentimental Journey arrives at Boeing Field in Seattle on July 28, 2025, the 90th anniversary of the first flight of the bombers prototype at the same field. (Gary Warner/Stars and Stripes) SEATTLE Ninety years to the day of the first flight of the B-17, one of the last surviving Flying Fortress bombers roared into Boeing Field where it all began. Sentimental Journey, a silver-skinned B-17G painted in the colors of the World War II 457th Bomb Group that flew from England against targets in Germany during World War II, arrived for a weeks stay during Seattles Fleet Week, which kicks off Tuesday. Mike Garrett, the tour coordinator for Commemorative Air Force in Mesa, Ariz., which operates Sentimental Journey, said the timing was serendipitous. Formerly known as the Confederate Air Force, the nonprofit founded in 1957 works to preserve and showcase historic military aircraft. We were scheduled to come here Monday and I wondered when was the first flight of the prototype, Garrett said. Its July 28, 1935. The exact day 90 years later. Wow. The four-engine heavy bomber is one of three remaining flying B-17s out of 12,731 Flying Fortress bombers built between 1937 and 1945. It all started here 90 years ago, said Michael Lombardi, a recently retired historian for the Boeing Aircraft Co., who was on hand for the arrival of Sentimental Journey. The B-17 that first flew at the airfield made Boeing the premier bomber-builder for nearly a century. The airfield next to the main Boeing aircraft assembly factory in Seattle is where the B-29 Superfortress that would carry the atomic bombs to Hiroshima and Nagasaki to end World War II first flew. The first American jet bomber, the B-47 Stratojet, and the prototype of the B-52 bomber that still flies for the Air Force 70 years after the designs introduction, all first flew at Boeing Field. You could say this is the birthplace of the American heavy bomber, Lombardi said. The first Flying Fortress In 1934, what was then the Army Air Corps initiated a competition for a multi-engine bomber to replace the twin-engine Martin B-10 bomber, the Air Corps first monoplane bomber. Boeing designed a four-engine heavy bomber the first of its kind. The prototype was Boeing Model 299. When the airplane rolled out, a Seattle reporter by the name of Dick Smith was so amazed by the airplane bristling with armament that he said, Its a flying fortress, Lombardi said. The Boeing PR department grabbed onto that right away. During a fly-off competition at Wright Field in Dayton, Ohio (now Wright-Patterson Air Force Base), the Model 299 crashed. Unable to complete the competition, the Air Corps awarded the contract to Douglas for the B-18 Bolo. It was a major blow for Boeing, Lombardi said. All that work seemed for nothing. But the Air Corps was impressed with the plane and used a loophole to order 17 of the Flying Fortresses. In the end, less than 400 B-18 Bolos were purchased as the B-17 orders were expanded after World War II started in 1939. The B-17 was there from the very beginning of Americas involvement in the war. A flight of 12 unarmed B-17 bombers arrived at Pearl Harbor amid the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor. Despite taking fire from Japanese and American forces who were unaware of the bombers planned arrival, only one crewmember was killed, according to a War Department report at the time. Three days later, Congress voted to join the war in Europe. The first U.S. contribution was to send B-17 bombers to England to fly missions against German and Italian-occupied areas. The Americans flew daylight bombing raids while the Royal Air Force, using the Lancaster bomber, hit targets at night. B-17s dropped 640,000 tons of bombs nearly half of the Allies total in the European Theater of World War II. B-17 crews had one of the highest percentages of combat deaths during World War II, according to U.S. assessments released after the war. At the height of the early bombing raids in 1942-1943, B-17 crews had a 71% chance of dying before they completed the minimum 25 combat missions. The casualties dropped by 1944 when long-range fighter escorts, such as the P-51 Mustang, were introduced. The 8th Air Force, which operated most B-17s in Europe, recorded 26,000 killed in action. Sentimental journey Though painted in wartime colors, Sentimental Journey, like all of the airworthy B-17s, was produced late in World War II and did not see combat. Its just 80 years old, said Garrett, the Commemorative Air Force tour director. The bomber flew observation missions on four atomic bomb tests at the Eniwetok Atoll in the Marshall Islands, directing two unmanned B-17s into the mushroom clouds to measure radioactive fallout. In the early 1950s, like so many B-17s, she was eventually taken to a field to scrap and put up for auction, Garrett said. Because she was in good shape no battle damage she was picked up. The plane was converted to a water-dropping firefighter aircraft a role for many B-17s after World War II. It eventually was renovated and is now part of the Commemorative Air Force collection. The plane, along with the groups B-25 Mitchell bomber the type of aircraft used to bomb Tokyo in 1942 as part of the Doolittle Raid makes the rounds of air shows across the country. To keep the B-17 flying, veterans trained generations of new pilots to fly the B-17. On Monday, Aric Aldrich, 50, an airline pilot whose regular job is flying Boeing 737 jets, was one of two pilots at the controls on the 224-mile flight across Washington state from Spokane to Seattle. Hes been a pilot on Sentimental Journey for 10 years. Its a different kind of flying, Aldrich said. The 737 is a modern-day masterpiece, flies so smoothly. The B-17 is like driving a dump truck in the air without power steering. Its real heavy on the take-off roll and you have four throttles to deal with. Aldrich said, despite the struggles, its an experience he loves. Once you get up in the air, its awesome, he said. Those four big radial engines buzzing away, the noise, the smoke, the vibration, the smell. It really brings you into how it was for those guys back in World War II. The sense of history comes through. Its an honor and a privilege to bring a B-17 back to Boeing Field for the 90th anniversary of the first flight. Lombardi, the former Boeing historian, said having a B-17 back in Seattle on Monday made history come alive. Having the B-17 here again at Boeing Field is a reminder of all the people who make up the story of a great airplane the men and women who built it here, and those brave young men who flew it into combat on incredible missions, he said. Its a legend and a legacy that is so inspiring for all of us today. The body of Michael S. Blankenship, a Marine Corps veteran, was discovered stuffed inside a closet at his mobile home in New Jersey, according to a grand jury indictment. He was buried Monday, July 28, 2025, with full military honors. (U.S. Army) WASHINGTON A 72-year-old Marine Corps veteran was buried Monday with full military honors after a cousin had hidden his body for months inside the veterans New Jersey mobile home to collect benefits under his name, authorities said. New Jersey State Police in April discovered the body of Michael S. Blankenship, a Vietnam War-era veteran, wrapped in several layers of plastic and stuffed inside a bedroom closet at his mobile home at Evergreen Estates in Fairfield Township. Blankenship died in 2024 from natural causes, according to a grand jury indictment filed last week in Cumberland County Superior Court in New Jersey. But Steven Blankenship, a 58-year-old cousin of the veteran, is accused of hiding the body for several months to collect benefits and use a credit card under Michael Blankenships name, according to the indictment. His arraignment is scheduled for Aug. 18. Michael Blankenship had served in the Marine Corps and was honorably discharged in 1970, according to his obituary. He had worked as a forklift operator prior to retiring in 2001 due to a disability. Blankenships body was discovered by police summoned to his home to conduct a welfare check, according to police. His decomposing body was found inside a rear bedroom closet after police detected a foul smell. A doorknob had been removed from the closet door and the door frame was sealed with electrical tape, police said. The Marine veteran had resided at his mobile home for 40 years, according to his obituary. Steven Blankenship faces charges of desecrating human remains, tampering with evidence, theft by deception and fraudulent use of a credit card, according to the indictment. He is accused of receiving nearly $14,000 in benefits and using Michaels personal credit card to cover his own expenses, according to a police report. Police said they found a handwritten note by Steven Blankenship inside the mobile home admitting he devised a plan to conceal his cousins death for his own financial benefit. Police said he also continued to pay bills under the Marine veterans name to avoid detection. A graveside service with full military honors was held at Centerton Free Will Baptist Cemetery in Pittsgrove, N.J. Blankenship was buried next to his mother, according to the obituary. The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans is objecting to an executive order by President Donald Trumps administration directing greater use of involuntary civil commitments to forcibly move homeless people into institutions. The order will disproportionately affect veterans, who are twice as likely to experience homelessness compared to the general population, according to the coalition. (VA.gov) WASHINGTON The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans is objecting to an executive order by President Donald Trump that directs state and local officials to forcibly move people living on the streets into long-term institutional settings. The coalition a national network of nonprofits that provides veterans housing and other assistance is protesting a July 24 executive order by Trump titled Ending Crime and Disorder on Americas Streets. The order connects homelessness to increased crime and seeks to end vagrancy and violent attacks by strengthening enforcement actions that include compulsory stays for homeless individuals at hospitals and other treatment facilities. Kathryn Monet, chief executive officer of the coalition, said the order will disproportionately affect veterans, who are nearly twice as likely to experience homelessness compared to the general population. Involuntary commitment is a legal process for placing people in institutional settings such as hospitals and treatment centers without their agreement or consent, according to the National Institutes of Health. Anna Kelly, White House deputy press secretary, said Tuesday that the executive order will help people struggling with addiction or mental health challenges get the help they need. The executive order states the overwhelming majority of [homeless] individuals are addicted to drugs, have a mental health condition, or both. But Monet said her organization has found homelessness among veterans often is driven by rising housing costs and a shortage of units that are affordable to rent or own. Even if every homeless veteran were institutionalized, our country lacks the affordable housing capacity to support them post-institutionalization, she said. Housing subsidies combined with job training programs and counseling services are evidence-based solutions that are more effective and less costly than forced institutionalization, Monet said. The executive orders emphasis on involuntary hospitalization and stripping away due process protections is deeply troubling, she said. Historically, mass institutionalization has caused harm and failed to provide long-term solutions. More than 32,000 veterans are homeless on any given night, according to the 2024 Annual Homeless Assessment Report, a one-night census led by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Annette Johnson, a 63-year-old disabled Army veteran, said her chronic problems with homelessness are connected to a lack of finances. Johnson, who collects disability and Social Security, said she lacks the money to cover the upfront application fee and down payment for an apartment. (Annette Johnson) Annette Johnson, a 63-year-old disabled Army veteran in Baltimore, is one of them. Ive been homeless since last October. The VA told me to go to a homeless shelter, but I dont feel safe there, said Johnson, who has a 100% disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs from back, neck and kidney injuries connected to military service. I sleep on buses and trains. I do what I can to survive. The executive order states shifting homeless individuals into long-term institutional settings for humane treatment through the appropriate use of civil commitment will restore public order. But Johnson, a former staff sergeant who served from 1980 to 1993 with deployments to Korea and Germany, said: I dont pose a safety issue to anyone. People are not homeless because they want to be. That does not make sense. Johnson moved out of subsidized housing she previously qualified for in 2024 because it was infested with rodents. She said her VA disability compensation plus monthly Social Security checks cover short-term hotel stays, food and storage for her belongings. But the money runs out before the end of each month, and she does not have the resources to make a deposit on an apartment. Johnson also said she has never used illegal drugs. Veterans homelessness has dropped by 50% since 2010, according to the VA. The vast majority of veterans who received housing assistance in 2024 remained in their homes, according to VA figures. The coalition expressed concern the executive order will lead to an increase in civil commitments for individuals with mental illness or substance use disorders when the organization advocates expanding treatment in the community. Monet also criticized the order for tying federal grant funding to a willingness by nonprofits to employ punitive measures to address homelessness. The executive order directs HUD and the Health and Human Services Department to end housing first policies that fail to promote self-sufficiency. The order also directs the attorney general to ensure that homeless individuals arrested for federal crimes are evaluated to determine whether they are sexually dangerous persons and certified accordingly for civil commitment. But Trumps executive order will protect homeless women and children from being housed with sex offenders, Kelly said. The executive order will incredibly alienate this population of veterans. We need to be addressing the root causes of homelessness, said Raymond Carville, public affairs manager with Veterans Inc., a not-for-profit agency providing veterans in Montana, North Dakota and across New England with housing assistance and other services. Many former service members the agency serves are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder a mental health condition that is a response to witnessing terrifying events, he said. Carville said his agency encounters many veterans who delay asking for help until theyve lost jobs and housing. He said he is encouraging veterans to step forward and seek assistance before they are in dire circumstances. It is incumbent on veterans to reach out to agencies that can advocate for them, he said. We find a lot of veterans are afraid to step forward. Theyre not used to asking for help. Johnson, who is estranged from her adult daughter, said she experiences the effects of PTSD related to military service. I have a lot of problems with depression, she said. Im in survival mode. Im just trying to stay alive. Rather than stay outdoors on the streets during the day, Johnson said she often rides a metro bus through downtown Baltimore because its free, safe and has air-conditioning. She said she looked at an apartment Monday afternoon, but she did not have the money to cover upfront costs. I just need help with the application fee and down payment, Johnson said. I have the first months rent, but it will put me in a hole for the rest of the month. VIENTIANE, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The "New Perspective: China-Laos Young Artists Exchange Exhibition" has opened in Lao capital Vientiane with over 100 guests from the cultural and tourism sectors of both countries attending the opening ceremony. Co-organized by the China Cultural Center in Laos and the China Center of International Cultural Exchange and Tourism Promotion, the exhibition showcases 48 artworks by emerging Chinese and Lao artists, including 13 new pieces by Chinese artists inspired by their travels in Laos, as well as six standout works by Lao artists. The showcase reflects Chinese artists' appreciation of Lao culture, while providing a platform for Lao artists to share their stories with Chinese audiences. Speaking at the opening ceremony on Sunday, Khamsouk Keovongxay, director general of the Lao National Institute of Fine Arts, praised the exhibition for strengthening cultural ties under the Belt and Road Initiative and fostering deeper mutual understanding between artists from both nations. During the event, Chinese artists presented two symbolic paintings to Lao representatives, including "Kuang si After the Rain," capturing the serene beauty of Kuang si Waterfall, and "Journey of the Snake and Elephant," representing cultural harmony between the two countries. The exhibition will run through Aug. 15. Anthony Wests defence lawyer told the court the 38-year-old strenuously denies the offences A Belfast man appeared in court today accused of drugging, raping and assaulting a woman who he allegedly held against her will. Appearing in the dock of the citys Magistrates Court, 38-year-old Anthony West confirmed he understood the six charges against him, alleged to have been committed against a single victim between 24 - 27 July the year. West, from Henderson Avenue in the north of the city, faces charges of rape, non-fatal strangulation, false imprisonment, criminal damage, causing actual bodily harm and administering a noxious substance with the intention of stupefying or overpowering her so as to enable a person to engage in sexual activity involving her. Giving evidence to the court, a detective said he believed he could connect West to each of the offences, adding that police were objecting to bail due to concerns of further offending and witness interference. He told the court it was after 10pm on Sunday when the complainant rang police to report that she had been held against her will for four days by the defendant. Anthony West News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 She further reported that during that time, she had been drugged and beaten and raped. According to the alleged victim, she had initially gone to Wests flat willingly on 22 July and during the first couple of days, the pair had had been drinking together. The court heard however that by the third day, West allegedly started to verbally abuse her, he hid her phone and he assaulted her. When West had gone to the bathroom the woman tried to escape, but West grabbed her by the ankles, dragged her back and threw her on the bed where he allegedly hit her several times, said the officer. On Saturday, she tried to get away and the defendant grabbed her again, dragged her back and coerced her into smoking what she believed was crack cocaine, he told the court. A short time later, West apparently told her I just want to f*** you and while she acquiesced to having sex, the detective told the court that was in circumstances where it was only to appease him and because of the drugs she had taken. At one point during her ordeal, West allegedly grabbed her by the windpipe, ripped her clothing, demanded that she remain naked, demanded that she perform a sex act on him and flushed her phone down the toilet. After that, she managed to leave the property and alert the police. When West was arrested, he initially claimed that she had struck him and held a knife to his throat but during formal police interviews, he gave no comment responses to officers questions. Wests defence lawyer told the court the 38-year-old strenuously denies the offences and submitted that he could be granted bail, subject to conditions. District Judge Steven Keown disagreed however, and refusing bail, he remanded West into custody with the case adjourned to 6 August. Michael Murray (54) was jailed for 15 years for falsely imprisoning, raping and sexually assaulting a woman at a Dublin apartment in February 2010. A notorious rapist who was sentenced to 16 further years in prison for a campaign of harassment against his victim and death threats directed at lawyers now finds himself serving a 35-year-sentence which has no regard to the totality principle and is "wrong", his barrister has told the Court of Appeal. Michael Murray (54), formerly of Seafield Road, Killiney, Co Dublin, was found guilty in 2021 of making death threats against Dominic McGinn SC in November 2014 and Tony McGillicuddy BL in January 2015 the barristers who prosecuted the rape case against him in the summer of 2013. He was also convicted of harassing his victim by advertising her online as a prostitute, and making similar posts about Mr McGinn and his former defence solicitor in January and February 2015. He had pleaded not guilty to all of these offences. In 2013, Murray was jailed for 15 years for falsely imprisoning, raping and sexually assaulting the woman at a Dublin apartment in February 2010, and abducting her child. His sentence was later increased to 19 years imprisonment by the Court of Appeal, which was backdated to February 2010. Michael Murray In July 2021, judge Karen O'Connor sentenced Murray to nine years in prison for the threat to kill Mr McGinn and seven years for the threat to Mr McGillicuddy. The judge sentenced Murray to the maximum seven years for the harassment of the woman he was convicted of raping in the context of re-victimising [her] after such serious and violent offending. Judge OConnor ordered that the nine-year sentence for the threat to Mr McGinn and seven-year term for harassing his victim be served consecutively to each other, for an effective operative sentence of 16 years imprisonment. The judge ordered that this sentence was to date from the end of his original 19-year sentence for rape. She ordered sentences of four years for the harassment of Mr McGinn and the female defence solicitor and five years for possession of the mobile phone in prison. Murray has 34 previous convictions, including convictions for common assault, carrying firearms, robbery and aggravated burglary with the offending dating back to 1987. Appealing the severity of his 16-year sentence today, Barry White SC, for Murray, told the three-judge court that his client was already serving a 19-year sentence for rape when the matter came before the Circuit Court in 2021. Counsel said Murray had been convicted by a jury on five counts in the Circuit Court and the appellant would only commence serving the 16 year sentence for harassment and death threats at the expiry of the 19-year rape sentence. "As a result Mr Murray now finds himself in a situation where he is now serving a 35-year sentence," he added. Michael Murray News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 Mr White submitted that the trial judge erred in determining the appellant's sentence in circumstances where the court failed to have regard to the 'totality principle' in the particular circumstances of Murray. The lawyer said the trial judge was of the view at sentencing that there was no mitigation in the case but at several points during the course of the trial she acknowledged that the appellant had saved time and resources through concessions made. He said it was also clear to the trial judge that Murray was a man "of some considerable age" and who in 2021 was effectively 50 years old. Mr White submitted that these were mitigating factors which ought to have been considered in the context of the totality principle, whereby the court must be satisfied that the overall sentence in its totality is fair, just and proportionate. He said the core issue was that the trial judge failed to have regard to the totality principle and asked the Court of Appeal whether in the circumstances it was appropriate for the appellant "to end up with what was effectively" a 35-year sentence in totality. "In our submission it is wrong," he added. Opposing the appeal today, Ms Anne Marie Lawlor SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said the 19-year sentence for rape was imposed in 2010 and the appellant was coming into "the later half or end of that sentence" in 2021. Ms Lawlor submitted that the consecutive sentence handed down by Ms Justice O'Connor was entirely appropriate, wholly justified and properly reflected the gravity of the offending. She had no error in principle had been established and counsel for Murray "coming in here citing figures" didn't amount to an error in principle. Ms Justice Tara Burns told counsel that the 19-year sentence imposed for rape was not for consideration today and it was whether Ms Justice O'Connor was correct to impose a consecutive sentence of seven years for the harassment of the woman on top of the nine year sentence for the threat to Mr McGinn. "The sentencing judge explained her position in relation to the woman already being the subject of a rape trial," she added. Ms Lawlor went on to say that the totality principle was not in any way, shape or form "offended" as the gravity of the offending was of such a nature that the sentence before the court was a proportionate one. She went on to say it was a wholly justified consecutive sentence. Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, sitting with Ms Justice Tara Burns, and Mr Justice Brian O'Moore, reserved judgement in the sentence appeal. Kayleigh Kim Hughes (28) was charged with stalking between 14 September 2022, and 26 July 2025. This is the Co. Antrim author who appeared in court today accused of stalking a working mum for the last three years. Belfast Magistrates Court heard how Kayleigh Kim Hughes had amassed thousands of documents and files about a woman she had been stalking, knowing where she lived, what car she drives, where she works and even her shopping patterns. A police officer told District Judge Steven Keown such was the knowledge 28-year-old Hughes had amassed, there were occasions when she had predicted where and when her target would be. Appearing in the dock Hughes, Brackenbridge Green in Carrickfergus, was charged with stalking between 14 September 2022, and 26 July 2025. Kayleigh Kim Hughes News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 During a contested application for bail, a police officer gave evidence that the offences came to light after Hughes had written an email to her mental health counsellor, detailing her obsessive thoughts about the woman. Hughes, the court heard, was arrested on Sunday and during interviews with police she admitted to having an obsessive fixation with the injured party. Hughes herself detailed that for the last three years, she had been keeping a diary about the womans movements, loitering near her home, as recently as the day beforehand, following the woman when she went shopping and watching as she collected her children from school. Having monitored her targets daily routines, such as how she travelled to work, journey times and where she liked to shop, Hughes admitted that she would make an effort to be present at these locations. The defendant would then either observe the injured party or engage her in conversation, the court heard. The officer recounted how an examination of Hughes mobile phone, uncovered just over 1,000 documents and 78 images related to the woman she is accused of stalking. She also revealed how notebooks uncovered at Hughes home detailed sinister scenarios, including where the woman was hurt, adding that in these scenarios, sometimes it was the defendant who was harming the woman and sometimes, she was watching someone else hurting her. Hughes, the court heard, has published a book in reference to a fantasy scenario in which the defendant kidnapped the victim at knifepoint and held her for a number of days. The officer said while Hughes maintained during interviews that she would never harm her, nevertheless the police were concerned that her behaviour had intensified over the last three years. It was also a factor, said the detectives that Hughes showed no remorse despite her admissions and gave no sign that she would stop stalking the woman. Under cross-examination from defence counsel Kelly Doherty, instructed by Sara Edge solicitor, the officer agreed that Hughes had made effectively full admissions. The only thing she did not accept was an intention to cause harm, the detective told the barrister. The officer also agreed with Miss Doherty that the woman was aware that there was an issue over Hughes but not to the extent of it. Theres been no attempts at any stage to harm the injured party, defence counsel suggested and again, the officer agreed theres been no threat of harm. Revealing that Hughes is awaiting a diagnosis for autism spectrum disorder, Miss Doherty submitted the defendant clearly has some problem with mental health. While she suggested the bail application could be adjourned to allow those issues to be explored, District Judge Steven Keown said he would refuse bail due to the risk of further offending. Adjourning the case to 26 August, he suggested that before any court could consider releasing Hughes there would need to be a comprehensive package in place to address her mental health and any treatment. He said while he would order a mental health assessment to be conducted by the prison authorities, he further suggested the defence seek legal aid so that a consultant psychiatrist can be instructed to produce a report. Ronan Hughes was found guilty of 39 people who were found in the back of a lorry. A haulage boss who admitted the manslaughter of 39 people who were found in the back of a lorry must serve an extra year and four months in jail after failing to pay the full amount of compensation ordered to families. Ronan Hughes was jailed for 20 years in 2021 for the manslaughter of the Vietnamese nationals, aged between 15 and 44, found in a vehicle in Essex on October 22 2019. The victims died in sweltering conditions as they were transported in an airtight container from Zeebrugge in Belgium to Purfleet. Hughes, 45, of Armagh, Northern Ireland, was taken back to court in 2024 and ordered to pay more than 182,000 in compensation to the families of victims. Ronan Hughes News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 He has paid 58,380 towards the confiscation order, but as of Tuesday - and including the interest accrued - he still owed more than 127,000. The CPS Proceeds of Crime Division invited a court to impose an additional sentence on Hughes in light of his failure to pay the confiscation order. He appeared before Folkstone Magistrates' Court for an enforcement hearing on Tuesday and the judge ordered that he serve an additional year and four months in prison, the CPS said. Heather Chalk, specialist prosecutor for the CPS, said: "Ronan Hughes led an unscrupulous network of organised criminals that sought to profit from smuggling desperate people. "It is devastating that 39 vulnerable people lost their lives because of their greed and recklessness. "The CPS is committed to working with law enforcement to dismantle these smuggling networks and prevent them from profiting from their criminality. "Hughes failed to pay back his confiscation order in full and, as a result, he will be serving additional time in jail." In addition to Hughes, four other men were jailed for between 13 and 27 years for the manslaughter of the men, women and children. They are: Romanian mechanic Gheorghe Nica, 48; Romanian Marius Mihai Draghici, 52, who was described as Nica's "second-in-command"; lorry driver Maurice Robinson, 30, of Craigavon, who found the bodies; and Eamonn Harrison, 28, of Co Down, who had collected the victims on the continent. To date, more than 283,000 in ill-gotten gains has been ordered to be paid by defendants as compensation to the victims' families. A 30-year-old man has now been charged with causing death by dangerous driving and other offences A man has been charged with the death of 16-year-old Jaidyn Rice after she was struck by a car in Co Down. Jaidyn was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after the incident which occurred just before 11pm on the West Circular Road, Bangor, on July 8. A 30-year-old man has now been charged with causing death by dangerous driving and other offences. He is due to appear at Newtownards Magistrates Court on July 29. Jaidyn Rice A PSNI spokesperson confirmed: The charges are in relation to the fatal road traffic collision which occurred at the West Circular Road area of Bangor on Tuesday 8th July. 16 year old Jaidyn Rice from the Bangor area, who was a pedestrian, sadly died at the scene following a collision involving a car at around 10.55pm. Co Down was plunged into mourning following Ms Rices death, with hundreds of people attending her funeral at at St Andrews Presbyterian Church in Bangor last Tuesday. The sermon saw a host of relatives, friends and volunteer groups recount personal stories and pay tributes. Jaidyn Rice The funeral of Jaidyn Rice takes places in Bangor Elaine Clark, Jaidyns mum, told the mourners of the precious memories she made with her daughter. She said: I miss your hugs and kisses and you telling me that you love me. I miss every single little thing about you, Jaidyn. I could stand here forever and list a billion things that I miss and it still wouldnt cover everything. Jaidyns brother Kenley (12) also spoke of the deep bond they shared and the support his sister gave him. Jaidyn Rice Jaidyn was like glitter, he said. She always shined hope and happiness into everybody who met her. And no matter what happened, she'd always be there. "I remember all the time at my cheer competitions, just before awards, everyone goes up and dances and she was always up on the floor, dancing it out to the max with me. I will miss that and the time she stood up for me and held me when I cried. Jaidyn Rice The loss was also felt by the volunteer groups Jaidyn devoted much of her time to. Louise Little, from the DICE project, described how they had big plans for her in the charity, as when others turned away, she stepped forward and listened when others didnt or couldnt. Reverend Ian McKee, who conducted the funeral, said Jaidyn was loved deeply and adored absolutely. Her untimely death has devastated the family circle and shocked the whole community right to the core, he said. Leanne Mulholland (30) stole a bag of tobacco from the victim after encouraging her fellow robber who held the spiked implement and made the threats A mother of three egged on an accomplice who threatened to stab a man with a pointed thermometer as they robbed him on Dublins Liffey Boardwalk. Leanne Mulholland (30) stole a bag of tobacco from the victim after encouraging her fellow robber who held the spiked implement and made the threats. Separately, she was arrested for throwing a bag of heavy objects including a hair straightener and a bottle of wine at the windscreen of a garda patrol car. Jailing her for 10 months, Judge John Hughes said her behaviour was outrageous and eye-watering. Mulholland pleaded guilty to robbery and public order charges. Dublin District Court heard Mulholland and a co-accused approached a man on the boardwalk on Eden Quay on February 13, 2021. They demanded cigarettes and tobacco from the victim, making threats. The co-accused, who was not before the court, produced a large thermometer with a spike and threatened to stab him with it, which was encouraged by Mulholland. They took a 25 bag of tobacco from the man and fled the scene. Separately, on April 13, 2022, Mulholland shouted abuse at a garda patrol car at Smithfield Luas stop and threw a large bag of heavy objects at the windscreen, causing a loud bang. When stopped, an intoxicated Mulholland kicked out and banged her forehead on the glass of a bus shelter. She tried to kick gardai as she resisted arrest at Park West on April 19, last year, and shoplifted 103 worth of groceries from Lidl, Rathmines Road, on April 7 this year. The accused had previous convictions for offences including robbery. Mulholland apologised to the victims, her barrister Paul Larkin Coyle said. She had been in an extended period of homelessness and living at a hostel in the city centre. The accused had health issues as well as addiction, was on a combination of drugs and medication at the time and the offences were directly related to this. She acted in a way that was out of control and unacceptable, Mr Larkin Coyle said. Mulholland was now clean, taking part in charity work for the homeless and trying to right the wrongs of the past. The accused had already spent time in custody, having been refused bail. She was egging on her colleague to stab [the victim] with a thermometer, its a most serious matter, Judge Hughes said. Stock image News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 Leon Cooney (37), a plumber of Ardmore Drive, Herbert Road, Bray, Co Wicklow pleaded guilty to a charge of assault causing harm to the delivery driver A Bray man has been jailed for two years for beating up and robbing a delivery driver near his home during a violent drunken attack which a judge described as appalling and atrocious. Leon Cooney (37), a plumber of Ardmore Drive, Herbert Road, Bray, Co Wicklow pleaded guilty to a charge of assault causing harm to the delivery driver on January 15, 2024 outside his home, contrary to Section 3 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997. Cooney also pleaded guilty during a sitting of Wicklow Circuit Criminal Court to a separate charge of robbing a mobile phone from his victim on the same occasion, contrary to Section 14 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act, 2001. Garda Stephen Farrell told the court that the defendant was highly intoxicated on the night and had physically attacked the delivery driver who suffered abrasions to his head, hands, knees and lower back. The court heard Cooney had assaulted his victim before the man managed to get away from him but pursued him again before physically attacking him a second time and then robbing a phone from his vehicle. Counsel for the DPP, James Kelly BL, said the victim had not wanted any further role in the proceedings and had not provided a victim impact statement. Judge John Martin said the accused had engaged in outrageous conduct and described his offending as appalling and atrocious for someone who had previously been a perfectly normal functioning member of society. The judge said he appreciated how terrifying it must have been for Cooneys victim who had not only suffered physical injuries but also the psychological impact of a prolonged, sustained attack. He said an aggravating factor in the case was that the victims phone was never recovered. However, Judge Martin said mitigating factors were Cooneys early guilty plea, his genuine remorse and an offer of 2,500 which he had brought to court which had been accepted by the delivery driver. The judge said a custodial sentence could not be avoided given the circumstances of the case and the need to send out a message that such conduct is not acceptable. Judge Martin expressed concern that attacks on delivery drivers were becoming all too prevalent. Such an unprovoked, unwarranted, savage attack cannot be tolerated, he added. The judge sentenced Cooney to three years in prison for the conviction for assault causing harm but suspended the final 12 months for a period of two years on certain conditions. They include that the accused keeps the peace for two years after his release from prison and places himself under the supervision of the Probation Service for that period as well as a requirement to complete a course in anger management. Cooney had been remanded overnight in custody following a court appearance the previous day. At the start of the hearing, the defendants counsel, Justin McQuade BL, told the court that Cooney had had a difficult night as it was his first time in a prison cell. Bray Courthouse, where Wicklow Circuit Criminal Court sits News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 Mohamed Adeagbo (24) of Highfield, Ballincollig, County Cork, pleaded guilty to having cocaine for sale or supply at a time when its street value exceeded 13,000 The Court of Appeal has ruled that a fully suspended sentence was not unduly lenient for a man who was being paid 500 per week for his role in the supply of drugs when he was caught with 114,000 worth of cocaine. Mohamed Adeagbo (24) of Highfield, Ballincollig, County Cork, pleaded guilty to having cocaine for sale or supply at a time when its street value exceeded 13,000, at his home address on April 25, 2022. He also pleaded guilty to a money-laundering charge that on April 22, 2022, at the address at Highfield Park, he possessed the proceeds of criminal conduct, namely 1,530 in cash, while knowing that it was the proceeds of criminal conduct. He was sentenced to three and a half years for the drug offence, fully suspended, with a concurrent one-year sentence on the second charge, also fully suspended by Judge Helen Boyle at Cork Circuit Criminal Court last November. Lawyers for the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) launched an appeal earlier this month, arguing that Adeagbos sentence was unduly lenient. The DPP said there were no wholly exceptional circumstances that could warrant fully suspending the three-and-a-half-year sentence. Imelda Kelly BL, for the DPP, said that Adeagbo had been detected with 1.6 kilos of cocaine with a value of 114,000, as well as a quantity of cannabis and cash totalling 1,530. She pointed out that the gardai said the 24-year-old had been actively involved in the supply of drugs, for which he was receiving 500 per week, and an iPhone had been seized from his home containing offending messages, the barrister said. Ms. Kelly argued the sentencing judge had erred by placing excessive weight on the mitigating factors and failing to give sufficient consideration to the principles of deterrence. Adeagbos barrister Alice Fawsitt SC said that her client had been a 21-year-old with no life experience, who came from a family of limited means and displayed no trappings of wealth. In dismissing the appeal at the Court of Appeal today, Mr Justice Brian OMoore said Adeagbo had satisfied the judge that he was drug free at the time of sentencing, had complied entirely with everything that was asked of him by the Probation Service and had done his level best to get himself back on track. The sentencing judge was quite entitled, in those truly exceptional circumstances, to fully suspend the sentence imposed on Mr Adeagbo, Mr Justice OMoore said. The judge said the headline sentence of five years was not in dispute and the reduction of that sentence by 18 months, given the signed plea of guilty, was in no way inappropriate. The suspending of the balance of the sentence did not form a substantial or gross departure from what was an appropriate sentence in the circumstances, he said. Cocaine. Stock image News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 Separately, Kelsey Melia (36) produced a fake drivers licence at the scene of a road accident A woman caught shoplifting cosmetics with a foil-lined bag has been fined for theft. Separately, Kelsey Melia (36) produced a fake drivers licence at the scene of a road accident. Judge David McHugh convicted her and fined her 200 when she appeared in Blanchardstown District Court charged over the two incidents. Melia, with an address at Watermark Building, Ashtown, Dublin, admitted using a false drivers licence, theft and possession of a foil-lined bag for use in a theft. A garda sergeant told the court that officers spoke to Melia at the scene of a two-vehicle accident at Wellmount Road, Finglas, Dublin, on November 24, 2022. The licence she produced was false and she stated she bought it online for 300. She went to Boots in Liffey Valley Shopping Centre last January 10 and stole 721 worth of cosmetics. Melia was a young lady with a number of problems and was attending addiction support, her solicitor John Wood said. There was a letter in court from her parish priest and she was about to start a community employment scheme. The judge imposed the fine on the theft charge and took the rest into consideration. Stock image News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 Lee OBrien (20) who is also known as Lee Gummerson pleaded guilty to a charge of possession of drugs for sale or supply A young Bray man described as a novice, budding drug dealer for selling cannabis from plants he had grown in his bedroom has avoided being sent to prison. Lee OBrien (20) of Old Court Avenue, Bray, Co Wicklow who is also known as Lee Gummerson pleaded guilty to a charge of possession of drugs for sale or supply at his home contrary to Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. Detective Garda Mark Colgan told a sitting of Wicklow Circuit Criminal Court that cannabis worth 1,183 was discovered in a search of the accuseds home on April 10, 2024. The court heard five cannabis plants worth 4,000 were also found in OBriens bedroom during the search. Although the accused claimed the cannabis was for his personal use, Det Sgt Colgan said weighing scales were also found in the property. He said OBrien told gardai that he was feeding his own addiction that had developed after he had started consuming cannabis when was aged around 13-14. Judge John Martin noted that the accused was making a monkey out of a probation report on him given his stance that he was never involved in dealing drugs. However, Det Garda Colgan said he believed OBrien was not a high street dealer but someone selling the drug among his mates. Under cross-examination by defence counsel, Justin McQuade BL, he confirmed that the accused had not come to Garda attention again since his arrest. The court heard OBrien, who lived in the house with his mother, had no previous convictions and had cooperated with gardai. His mother, Denise OBrien, gave evidence that she had noticed her son change a few years previously when he had become quieter. She told the court that he had since given up cannabis and all tobacco products completely and had become more responsible. Judge John Martin accepted that the volume of drugs involved in the offence was low. He observed that the accused did not have a wise head on young shoulders and claimed he seemed to have been a novice, budding drug dealer. The judge said OBrien had not fully cooperated with gardai as he had denied any involvement in drug dealing. However, he accepted that the young man was addicted to cannabis at the time. Sentencing OBrien to 15 months in prison, Judge Martin said he would suspend the sentence in full for a period of two and a half years. He directed that OBrien should place himself under the supervision of the Probation Service for the suspended period and remain drug-free and provide clear urine analyses when requested. Stock image: Getty News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 CANBERRA, July 29 (Xinhua) -- An Australian scientist warns current efforts fall short against rising micro- and nanoplastics, urging stronger global controls before key United Nations treaty talks. A policy submission by Australia's Flinders University Associate Professor Melanie MacGregor and the Scientists' Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty, urges stronger industry oversight to curb intentional and accidental releases of plastic particles and chemicals throughout the entire plastic lifecycle. According to a statement of Flinders University on Tuesday, rising plastic consumption fuels concern ahead of the final UN Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee treaty talks in Geneva from Aug. 5 to 14. The talks are aimed at establishing an effective global agreement to manage plastic production and waste, as global plastic production is set to double by 2050, with under 10 percent currently recycled, it said. Flinders University research reveals widespread microplastic fibers, fragments, and beads in South Australia's freshwater and marine waterways. Scientists are raising urgent concerns about the widespread release of micro- and nanoplastics, along with harmful chemicals, into land, sea and air, threatening ecosystems and human health globally, the statement said. Nanoplastics and microplastics under 5mm carry harmful chemicals that contaminate environments and human tissues. "Tougher measures should be taken to reduce the release of greenhouse gas emissions, chemicals and pollutants such as (plastics-emitted) volatile organic compounds and micro- and nanoplastics to the environment, food chain and living organisms," said MacGregor, who is a member of the Scientists' Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty. Michael Jacob made an emotional appeal for information 27 years after his daughter was last seen on Tuesday, July 28 near her home in Roseberry, Newbridge Deirdre Jacobs father has said he hopes the answer to his daughter's disappearance "will come one day. Michael Jacob made an emotional appeal for information 27 years after his daughter was last seen on Tuesday, July 28 near her home in Roseberry, Newbridge. Deirdre who was only 18-years-old in 1998, had just completed one year at St Marys University in Twickenham, London. On the day she went missing she had walked into Newbridge to get a bank draft to send to a college friend in London for their rent deposit. She was 53 in height with a slim build. She had grey/green eyes and dark, chin-length hair. Deirdre Jacob News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 Speaking on Kildare Today, Deirdre's father Michael Jacob said it does not feel like 27 years have passed. "Gardai are just as baffled as we are, he said, adding that he often wonders where "those years have gone". However, he added that he knows in his heart that the "answer will come one day". Gardai previously outlined a timeline of the last moments Deirdre had been seen. At 2.14pm Deirdre was observed on CTTV walking on Main Street Newbridge. Four minutes later, at approximately 2.18pm she is observed in the AIB bank getting a 100 bank draft and leaves a short time later. At 2.26pm Deirdre is again observed again on CCTV queuing in the Post Office Newbridge where she seen at 2.32pm on CCTV speaking with a friend outside. At 2.35pm the last sighting of Deirdre is recorded on CCTV, walking outside the PTSB Bank on Main Street, Newbridge. Deirdre was last seen shortly after 3pm near her family home outside Newbridge. When she went missing on July 28, 1998, Deirdre was wearing a navy, V-neck t-shirt with a white trim on the collar and sleeves, navy or black straight jeans and blue Nike runners. Deirdre's parents Michael and Bernie Deirdre was carrying a distinctive black satchel type bag with long shoulder straps and the word CAT in large yellow capital letters on the side. The black satchel bag has never been located. On the 20th anniversary of her disappearance An Garda Siochana confirmed that the missing person investigation had been upgraded to a murder investigation. An Garda Siochana has submitted an investigation file on the murder of Deirdre Jacob to the Director of Public Prosecutions. No prosecution has been directed to date. The murder investigation continues to be conducted by gardai from the Kildare Garda District, under a Senior Investigating Officer and with the available support of other resources from An Garda Siochana including the Serious Crime Review Team, as required. An incident room remains in place at Kildare Garda Station and An Garda Siochana regularly update Deirdres parents, Michael and Bernadette and her family through a designated Family Liaison Officer. In 2022 it was revealed that convicted rapist Larry Murphy would not face charges in relation to the 1998 kidnap and murder of the teenager. A file on the case, with new evidence, was sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in 2021. However, after new evidence was reviewed it was determined that charges would not be brought against the Beast of Baltinglass who is a suspect in the crime. In 2018, her disappearance was upgraded to murder with gardai saying that they had received vital new "credible and corroborated" information that led to Larry Murphy becoming the chief suspect in the murder of the 18-year-old. Two years later in February 2020, gardai prepared all their evidence in the case and sent a file linking Murphy to the murder of Deirdre Jacob to the Director of Public Prosecutions. In 2021 the DPP sent their file to a specialist barrister for a "second opinion" on the case. However, gardai told the Sunday World in 2022: As part of this investigation, a file was forward to the DPP and recently returned with a direction of no prosecution. Deirdres family and Garda investigation team urge any person or persons with information in relation to the murder of Deirdre Jacob to please come forward. An Garda Siochana are reminding the public that if you have information about Deirdres murder, not to assume that we already know it, or that is has limited value. Anyone with information in relation to this investigation should contact the investigation team at Kildare Garda Station at 045 521222, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111, or any Garda station. There have been calls for Gardai to search an underground cave near his old hunting ground in Wicklow Larry Murphy, is the first cousing of David Lawler A forensic scientist and an investigative journalist today call for a search of an underground cave near suspected serial killer Larry Murphys old hunting ground in rural Wicklow. David Kenny and Geraldine Niland have spent years seeking answers to Murphy's secret life and to where Irelands missing women may be. They tell Nicola about a discovery of an ancient storage souterrain which has raised the heckles of cadaver dogs, scientists, and geo experts. MORE EPISODES Seven dogs pin point same site as amatuer sleuth steps up campaign Larry Murphy has long been linked to the disappearance of Deirdre Jacob (below) Larry Murphy has been living abroad and working as a handyman following his 10-year sentence for rape in this country A forensic expert has called on the gardai to bring in ground-penetrating radar to investigate an underground cave near Larry Murphys former home. As convicted rapist Larry Murphy, the so-called Beast of Baltinglass, continues to live abroad under a new identity, a forensic scientist-turned amateur sleuth claims new information has emerged that could finally expose the truth behind one of Irelands most enduring mysteries, and perhaps bring closure to families who have waited decades for answers. This month marks 27 years since 18-year-old Deirdre Jacob vanished outside her home in Newbridge, Co. Kildare in July 1998. She was the last of several women who went missing in the 1990s in an area dubbed the Vanishing Triangle. Larry Murphy has been living abroad and working as a handyman following his 10-year sentence for rape in this country In 2000, Larry Murphy was arrested and imprisoned for the abduction and rape of a young Carlow woman. The timing led both gardai and the media to speculate whether Murphy could be linked to the disappearances. While other suspects have emerged in the cases of missing women including Jo Jo Dullard and Annie McCarrick, Murphy was investigated in relation to Deirdre Jacob whose disappearance was upgraded to a murder inquiry in 2018. However in 2022, the Director of Public Prosecutions decided that there was not enough evidence to charge Murphy and no remains have ever been found. Respected Now, a respected forensic expert says that he believes it may be because Gardai simply arent looking where the should be. David Kenny, a Frankfurt-based, and now retired, forensic scientist, has spent the past 15 years independently investigating Murphys movements, and a potential crime scene. What he uncovered, he claims, is staggering: a remote woodland location, just 3.5km from Murphys former home, where seven different cadaver dogs, trained by three separate agencies, have all independently indicated the presence of human remains. Historical records point to a cave, more likely an ancient souterrain, beneath the area. Ground-penetrating radar could confirm it within hours, he claims. But gardai, he says, wont take the next step. Larry Murphy has long been linked to the disappearance of Deirdre Jacob (below) . This isnt random speculation. These are consistent, repeated forensic indications that human remains may be present, Kenny told the Sunday World. But despite all that, no formal garda search has ever been carried out. We reported the findings. We gave them everything. But we got nothing back. Theyve not even scanned the site, he said. In the grand scheme of things this is a small ask, yet one which An Garda Siochana seem to think not worth the effort. Why, seems like an obvious question with no obvious answers? Kenny began his work in 2010, examining the landscape around the uninhabited woodland near Kilranelagh, just over 1,600 metres from the remote location where Murphy was interrupted by two hunters during the 2000 rape and attempted murder of a woman he had abducted in Co Carlow. He drove her to Co Kildare where he raped her before later bringing her to the Wicklow mountains where raped her again and tried to kill her. Murphy had driven her approximately 40 kilometres before stopping, leading Kenny to question whether the area had been chosen deliberately. Larry Murphy leaves the Central Criminal Court in 2001 It seemed reasonable that the destination was not chosen at random, Kenny said. Put simply, the possibility of an intended disposal site being nearby could not be ignored, though this appears to have been entirely overlooked. Historical In 2017, Kenny discovered two historical documents from the 1930s referencing a cave located just yards from Boleycarrigeen Stone Circle, near Kilranelagh. The area is secluded, forested, and within 3.5km of Murphys home at the time of his arrest, and where he had hunting rights. Most likely this cave is a reference to a souterrain, Kenny explained. Its not a tomb, its a man-made underground storage chamber used for centuries across Ireland. Thousands exist. But this one sits directly beside where multiple dogs have now indicated. In 2021, Kenny assembled a professional team, including a retired FBI agent, a geophysicist, a university expert in clandestine burials, and internationally renowned search dog handler Dr Neil Powell. Despite harsh weather, Powells dog gave a positive indication at the exact spot near the stone circle. The search team in 2021 Kenny reported the result to gardai expecting they would seize the opportunity to search. But nothing happened. Since then, three additional dogs trained by Carlow handler Paul Murphy, followed by two more from a third team, all independently indicated the same site. That makes seven dogs from three expert teams, all marking one secluded area without prior exposure, and without knowledge of each others results. You dont get that kind of convergence unless something is really there, Kenny said. Unforgivable This, Kenny argues, is what makes the inaction so unforgivable. Many of the official searches weve seen over the years have been extremely costly, often destructive of private land and often based on nothing more than hearsay, he said. But here, you have specific forensic indications. Multiple, repeatable, credible signals. And still, no one acts. He believes the entrance to the underground structure, whatever it is, has been deliberately blocked, but could be exposed with minimal effort. Opening it would simply mean removing whatever material has been used to block the access point. he said. Why gardai refuse to do so is, frankly, baffling. For the families of the missing women, they have endured a long history of unanswered questions. And for Kenny, its become a personal mission. He is now speaking out publicly in the hope of putting pressure on authorities to act, before its too late. The longer this is ignored, the harder it becomes to retrieve what might be left. Murphy served ten years for his 2000 conviction. . Murder suspect Larry Murphy News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 The victim was taken to the Mater Hospital following the incident that took place on Dorset Street Lower at around 9pm A man is being treated in hospital after he was assaulted in Dublin City Centre last night. The victim, a man in his 30s, was taken to the Mater Hospital following the incident that took place on Dorset Street Lower at around 9pm. His injuries are described as not life-threatening. Gardai and emergency services attended the scene, which was later preserved for technical examination. Meanwhile a Garda spokesperson told Sunday World investigations into the assault are ongoing. The Mater Hospital in Dublin News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 "Gardai and emergency services were alerted to an assault that occurred on Dorset Street Lower in Dublin 1 at approximately 9pm last night, the spokesperson said. A man aged in his 30s was brought to the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital for treatment of injuries, not believed to be life-threatening. "The scene was preserved and a technical examination conducted. Investigations are ongoing." Theres a lot more stigma and shame for women entering treatment There has been a surge in the number of women using cocaine as low fat alternative to alcohol, as it replaces other drugs a new report shows. According to the Rutland Centre rehab clinics 2024 annual report, a growing national crisis has evolved through the use of cocaine in this country. While children are storing cocaine in their school lockers, the centres head of clinical services, Emma Kavanagh, described how young women feel like cocaine will not impede their weight-loss journeys or progress in the gym. If they were to use alcohol, it would negatively affect those things, she also told Extra.ie. So, cocaine is nearly kind of a loophole to get a buzz without having to ingest additional calories. . News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 Cocaine accounted for 23 pre cent of all admissions last year to the private rehab clinic, the new figures reveal. This is up from 17 per cent in 2023 and is one of the sharpest single-year increases the Rutland Centre has recorded for any substance, the Dublin-based centre warned. Rutland CEO Meave Mullany told RTE Radio how women traditionally face more barriers to entering treatment than men. Theres a lot more stigma and shame for women entering treatment, she said. Theres a lot more considerations around childcare, around family life, so they tend not to come forward for treatment as frequently or as often as men do. Ms Mullany said according to people coming in for treatment cocaine is literally everywhere. Its in the lockers, its in school, its after sport, she said. We even hear from clients coming into treatment that theres an app that people can use to order it by drones, she remarked. In response to this crisis, the centre has announced plans to open a dedicated inpatient detox unit later this year. More than 200 people received intensive treatment through Rutlands residential and outpatient programmes in 2024, as staff answered more than 16,800 calls and facilitated over 11,000 aftercare attendances. According to the Health Research Boards latest drug treatment figures, cocaine is now the most common problem drug among new treatment cases, accounting for over 30% of all new presentations, and overtaking cannabis for the first time. Men made up two-thirds (66 per cent) of those treated at the Rutland Centre in 2024, with women accounting for 34 per cent. The age group with the most people seeking help was those aged 25 to 44, who represent more than half of all clients. These figures highlight the age and gender realities of addiction in Ireland today, with younger adults and men continuing to face particularly acute risks, the facility said in a statement. The Rutland report also revealed that 94 per cent of residential clients completed the full treatment programme, while 89per cent of those who moved into aftercare remained in active recovery. Many former clients attribute Rutland their life-changing recovery to the Rutland with one former client, Chris, saying that when he arrived four years ago, he was completely broken. The 35 days in the house was the hardest of my life. I finally had to face me. Now I look back and recovery hasnt just been about sobriety, its about growing up and reconnecting with the people I love. He added: Halfway through, I wanted to leave, I wanted to run but that same night something clicked, no one else was going to do this for me. I needed to show up for myself. Whats happened since still blows my mind. Filled with fear about bringing her little boys to an island famous for partying, Denise Smith soon discovered that TUI had it all figured out to make a memorable family holiday The resort has plenty to keep little ones entertained Okay, that may be a slight remix of her now-iconic No sleep, bus, club, another club mantra but it perfectly sums up the magic and mayhem of chasing two toddlers around a Balearic resort with suncream in one hand and a half-melted Calippo in the other. Before we dive into pirate splash parks, bottomless buffets and TUI bots, a quick confession: I knew next to nothing about travelling abroad with toddlers. My twin boys had just mastered running, jumping and shouting and I hadnt mastered much of anything when it came to toddler-friendly travel. Denise saw a new side to Ibiza Wed braved a four-hour trip to Lanzarote when they were four months old aka that golden window where babies still sleep for 18 hours a day and can be strapped into a carrier like sleepy little burritos. Now, at almost two, my dynamic duo have roughly the same energy output as a Formula 1 car and the combined vocal range of Mariah Carey and Bruno Mars. So when the idea of a nice summer family holiday came up, we were firm in our stance: it was a hard no. The thought of wrangling toddlers on a plane with other people watching sounded like a stress nightmare I would never recover from. And as for as researching, booking and organising an itinerary? Id rather have a colonoscopy. Splash Park What changed our minds? In short: TUI. Id heard whispers from other parents that their all-inclusive family resorts were the holy grail. You know, the kind of hushed, wide-eyed recommendations passed around like a secret parenting code: They have a baby lounge. Drop-in creche facilities and all-you-can-eat buffets. What sealed the deal was the fact we wouldnt have to lift a single finger to plan our dream family holiday. We were firmly leaving that in the hands of the experts. All we had to do was choose a location. Which turned out to be the most difficult decision of all. TUI Blue Aura in Port des Torrent, Ibiza After a lot of scrolling and soul-searching (But do you think well survive the flight?), we booked into TUI Blue Aura in Port des Torrent, Ibiza less than three hours from Dublin and a short transfer (which is provided) from the airport. Turns out, Ibiza isnt just for 3am raves and all-night ragers its a family haven, and we were here for it. We arrived just before midday. Having been awake since 3am, all we wanted was to collapse in an air-conditioned room. I braced for the dreaded, Check-ins at 3pm, but our key cards were handed over within minutes and the boys were napping in their cots half an hour later. The rooms? Clean, spacious, and set up for actual living. Think blackout blinds, separate sleeping areas (toddler travel gold) and, in some rooms, kitchenettes for warming milk or storing snacks. We even had our own balcony. Did someone say balcony gins? Port des Torrent, Ibiza As soon as the boys nodded off I went to explore and quickly realised how the resort centres on making family holidays as stress-free as possible. Case in point, the Baby Lounge a genius little hub fully stocked with changing mats, bottle warmers, microwaves and soft lighting. For a mam whos changed nappies in some questionable locations, this was basically a spa. Post-nap, we lathered the boys up in suncream and headed out to explore. First stop: the mini buffet. Next stop: pool. The main pool area is a literal family wonderland. Four outdoor pools, including one thats toddler-friendly with a gentle slope and no sudden steps of doom. But a real winner is the indoor pool, which is perfect for avoiding sunburn, especially for fair-skinned toddlers (and spray-tanned mams guilty). The resort has plenty to keep little ones entertained Still, the showstopper is the on-site waterpark and entry is included in your package. It has a pirate ship splash zone and vertical drops that would make your eyes water. So, of course, Sonny and Sebastian lost their collective minds. They clambered up slides and got blasted in the face by water cannons while I watched and followed closely briefly envious of the parents poolside with a plastic cup of sangria before joining in and squeezing myself down a slide I may have exceeded the weight limit for. The friction burns were worth it for the peals of laughter that followed when I faceplanted a shallow body of water. But all of that pales in comparison to the BabyClub. Sleepless nights before the trip were filled with thoughts of how wed survive every day without Ms Rachel. I could never have predicted how much the Baby Club would become our lifeline. Each morning, after a quick breakfast, wed barrel through the doors to enjoy 45 minutes of free play in one of two dedicated rooms for babies and toddlers. Picture Lego stacking, make-believe, and a room decked out with under-the-sea murals. The boys loved running barefoot on the padded floor from station to station blocks, books, baby dolls it is truly a toddler oasis. The food and drink at the resort was sensational Run by qualified childcare experts, a warm, welcoming group of women who the boys gravitated towards every day. The Baby Club caters for little ones aged 036 months, making it perfect for toddlers and babies alike. Once free play ended, wed frisk the boys for contraband toys (they always tried to sneak out a rogue dinosaur) and head straight to the Baby Lounge for more activities. One day, it was paint-covered chaos think toddler-sized elephants dunking their trunks into tubs of paint. No one was safe from their sticky handprints, not even the poor woman beside us who left with black smudges all over her thighs... And there was so much more. Music classes, Little Splashers pool sessions with sing-alongs and games at the baby pool, plus shaded play zones around the resort ideal for cooling off when the sun got too hot. The baby club For a little grown-up time, we could pre-book (for an extra charge) a morning or afternoon creche slot perfect for those moments when you need a breather. We attempted to book the boys in one sunny morning to enjoy some sushi on the beach but one of our boys had other ideas. Thirty minutes later we received a call to say our eldest was unsettled and so our Aperol spritz lay untouched. When we sprinted back, sweat dripping down our faces, our adorable twosome were the picture of serenity and light. Pushing a pram and rocking a baby doll to sleep, they had the audacity to shush us when we came through the door. Now on to the main event the food. Meals out with toddlers can feel like hostage negotiations at the best of times. But here, the all-inclusive buffet was the freedom we desperately needed. Themed nights (Mexican! Italian! Kids night, complete with a nugget extravaganza!), a dedicated childrens station, and the cutest yellow and red trays piled high with fresh fruit, pasta, and crucially Mickey Mouse bread rolls. And if one of the boys started screaming mid-meal? No problem there were at least 12 other toddlers doing the same. It was like an impromptu toddler choir. A really, really terrible choir. But we were all in it together and nobody was here to judge if said toddler enjoyed shoving pasta up their nose. Of course, the buffet wasnt the only dining option. There were speciality restaurants as well. We headed to the Teppanyaki Club just a few steps from the hotel entrance. The boys were transfixed as pieces of egg were tossed into the air, followed by a burst of fire that may or may not have traumatized them. But, honestly, the pictures of their awestruck faces were worth it for any momentary panic. When I think back to my own childhood summers abroad, Ill always remember the dance routines and evening games by the hotel stage. Evenings here are just as chaotic and wholesome. Much to our amusement, the TUI Bot may as well have been Beyonce whenever the giant blue robot busted some moves on the main stage our mini boppers were lining up to be backup dancers. The mini disco quickly became the boys favourite thing (and, honestly, mine too). Watching them shake their little bums and clap their chubby hands to Baby Shark under the Ibizan sunset? Core memory. While they threw some shapes, they get their rhythm from me, we sipped something fizzy and toasted surviving the day. Melting into the last bit of sun, there were no Michelin star dinners or elaborate cocktails, just sandy toes, happy bellies, and snoozing kids by 8pm. Heaven. And did I mention the beach is only a five-minute walk away? A beautiful secluded stretch of sand, perfect for sundowners while we dipped our feet into the surf. Never missing a chance to share snippets of family life to my tiny squares on Instagram, the most asked question I received when I returned home was, the whole holiday looked amazing, but did you really enjoy it? This is a family-friendly resort so, yes, children will scream. Sometimes theyll be yours. And yes, when the meltdowns came they hit hard and we questioned our sanity. But thats part of the deal when it comes to holidaying with toddlers and TUI get that. Thats why they make their resorts a real home-from-home. From room layouts to baby lounges to the TUI Blue app that tells you exactly whats on its all designed to reduce stress, not add to it. Would I do it again? Absolutely. Would I pack less? Also yes. Would I recommend it to other parents wondering whether a sunshine break is worth the hassle? I already have. My nervous system may only just be recalibrating from the early wake-ups, suncream wars, and mini meltdowns, but it was all worth it for the memories made. On our last night as I stood, watching my two chubby-cheeked toddlers stomp their feet to Baby Shark, I thought maybe we werent Gaga after all for thinking wed enjoy a trip to the sun. FACTFILE: IBIZA WITH TUI Denise and her family were guests of TUI Every TUI BLUE hotel has up a premium buffet restaurant and a selection of speciality places, all part of your all-inclusive package. Current deals for TUI BLUE Aura: September 3, 2025: All-inclusive 7 nights for 2,959 (2+1) or 3,929 (2+2) May 6, 2026: 7 nights for 2,299 (2+1) or 3,209 (2+2) Included in your Holiday: Direct flights from Dublin Airport to Ibiza airport Transfers to your hotel and 20kg luggage For more info on TUI BLUE visit tuiholidays.ie "We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated. There is no other party involved. TV stars Cat Deeley and her Late Late Show host husband Patrick Kielty have announced their separation after more than a decade of marriage. They wed in September 2012 at a ceremony in Rome and have two children together. They said in a joint statement to the PA news agency: "We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated. There is no other party involved. "We will continue to be united as loving parents to our children and would therefore kindly ask for our family privacy to be respected. "There will be no further comment." Patrick Kielty and Cat Deeley News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 The couple met on Fame Academy in 2002 and previously lived in the US. The TV stars then relocated to live in London, from which Kielty commutes to Dublin to present The Late Late Show. Patrick Kielty hosts the Late Late Show Last year, Kielty opened up about in an interview about the couple having to juggle their busy schedules. There was a moment after Christmas that was tricky, he told the Times. She had to fly to Atlanta for seven weeks. There was a wee bit of a juggle there. But I think with all these things, as long as you have a routine, it doesnt take as much fizz out of you as some people think. Kielty, who splits his time between the UK and Ireland, also said in the interview that he and This Morning host Cat were managing to still see eachother despite their hectic schedules. Because Cats doing her stuff in the morning, she would normally be back just after lunchtime. And weve got the start of the week and the weekends together, so its not Hi/bye, he said. It has been a tough year for Kielty whose mother died in March at the age of 84. Patrick Kielty (right) carries the coffin of his mother, Mary Mary Kielty, whose husband Jack was shot dead by the Ulster Freedom Fighters (UFF) during the Troubles in 1988, died peacefully at home in Dundrum, Co Down. Mourners at the Church of the Sacred Heart in Dundrum heard that Mrs Kielty had had "a difficult life", referring to the death of her husband. "It left its impact not only on the close family and friends, but also on the wider community," parish priest Robert Fleck said. He said that Mrs Kielty took her three sons "everywhere" while their father worked with showbands and at dances. Her life changed when her husband was killed in 1988. Patrick, who had presented an episode of RTE's flagship TV programme The Late Late Show hours before her death, gave the second reading at her funeral mass. Mohammad Ayyad, was sentenced to death for his part in the killing, the Sunday World understands Undated handout photo issued by Defence Forces of Private Sean Rooney of Newtowncunningham in Co Donegal, the Irish peacekeeping soldier killed in Lebanon. A man has been sentenced to death in Lebanon after he was convicted of the killing of Private Sean Rooney, an Irish peacekeeper shot dead in December 2022 in Lebanon. The main defendant in the case, Mohammad Ayyad, was sentenced to death for his part in the killing, the Sunday World understands, but he is currently still at large. Ayyad had previously admitted to firing a gun during the incident. A number of other defendants received lesser sentences which were not immediately published. Taoiseach Micheal Martin welcomed the conviction of the main defendant but said it is "unsatisfactory that he is still at large. Many will feel the sentences passed down on the other defendants are far too lenient. The justice system in Lebanon, and the delay in progressing in this case was deeply regrettable. Peacekeeping is the most noble cause of all, and the role of the peacekeeper must at all times be honoured and respected. Private Sean Rooney was killed while on duty with the UN. Photo: Rooney family This is very difficult day for the family of Sean Rooney, in particular his mother Natasha. Sean was a soldier of great courage, who put the safety of others before his own safety in the line of duty. He was brave and diligent. My thoughts and prayers are with Natasha, his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time, Mr Martin said. Private Rooney, from Co Donegal, died after the armoured vehicle he was driving came under fire near the village of Al-Aqbiya in December 2022. He was 24 years old. Trooper Shane Kearney from Co Cork also suffered serious injuries in the same incident. The troops were driving near the town of Al-Aqbiya, known to be a stronghold of Hezbollah. Mr Rooney was dropping colleagues to the airport to return home to their families for Christmas when their convoy came under attack. Undated handout photo issued by Defence Forces of Private Sean Rooney of Newtowncunningham in Co Donegal, the Irish peacekeeping soldier killed in Lebanon. "This evening I have been informed of the completion of the hearings held by the Military Tribunal in Beirut for those indicted for the murder of Private Sean Rooney, who was killed during an incident on 14 December 2022 at Al-Aqbiya, Lebanon, in which a number of his colleagues in the 121st Infantry Battalion also sustained serious injuries, Defence Minister Simon Harris said. I welcome the conviction of the main defendant and a number of the other defendants, who had not previously been in court. While noting the sentence handed down to the main defendant, I am disappointed and share the disappointment of Private Rooneys family at the lighter sentences imposed on a number of those convicted today, Mr Harris said, without specifying the sentences imposed on any of the defendants. "Sean Rooney made the ultimate sacrifice in the noble pursuit of peace. This is a difficult time for his family and his colleagues, especially those who were injured that night. All our thoughts are with them at this time, Mr Harris said. An initial date of September had been set for the trial but this was moved forward at the request of the Irish government as Private Rooneys family had been waiting more than two years after his death for any progress in the case, despite numerous hearings taking place. I appreciate that this is an incredibly difficult day for the family of Private Rooney. None of us can fathom their unimaginable pain and grief and all my thoughts remain with them at this time, Mr Harris said. The controversial Belfast-based rap trio will join the list of major stars who have appeared at the citys prestigious The Rooftop at Pier 17 venue in October Kneecap are set to play two sold-out rooftop shows in New York later this year in the wake of their ban on performing in Hungary. The controversial Belfast-based rap trio will join the list of major stars who have appeared at the citys prestigious The Rooftop at Pier 17 venue on October 1 and 10. Described as New York Citys most scenic concert venue, with views of the Brooklyn Bridge, and Empire State Building, The Rooftop has played host to Billie Eilish, Lil Nas X, Tate McRae, and the Fugees, whose first reunited performance in over 15 years took place there in 2021. They have also announced another European show in September at the Gasometer in Vienna. The group, who are outspoken supporters of Palestine, were due to perform at Sziget Festival on August 11. . News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, July 29 Kneecap said there is no legal basis for Hungary banning the act from entering the country ahead of their scheduled appearance at the music festival. However, Government spokesman Zoltan Kovacs wrote on social media platform X that the decision to ban Kneecap was because the groups members repeatedly engage in antisemitic hate speech supporting terrorism and terrorist groups. In a statement posted on Instagram, Kneecap described the decision to bar them from entry as political distraction and pointed out that none of the group has any criminal convictions. A spokeswoman for Sziget Festival also described the move as unnecessary and regrettable. Cancel culture and cultural boycotts are not the solution, she added. The statement from Kneecap said: To the tens of thousands of fans who we were buzzing to see in person at Sziget, were sorry we wont be with you. The authoritarian government of Viktor Orban say we pose a national security threat. Which is f****** outrageous coming from a man who welcomed Netanyahu, a wanted war criminal, like a hero just a few weeks ago. There is no legal basis for his actions, no member of Kneecap has ever been convicted of any crime in any country. We stand against all hate crimes and Kneecap champions love and solidarity as well as calling out injustices whenever we see it. Its clear that this is political distraction and a further attempt to silence those who call out genocide against the Palestinian people. Kneecap have had several shows cancelled in recent months, including TRNSMT festival in Glasgow and at the Eden Project in Cornwall. They claim this is part of a smear campaign against them because of their vocal support for Palestine and criticism of Israels actions in Gaza, which they say is a genocide. The statement posted earlier on Thursday by Mr Kovacs said: Hungary has zero tolerance for antisemitism in any form. Their planned performance posed a national security threat, and for this reason, the group has been formally banned from Hungary for three years. If they enter, expulsion will follow under international norms. The spokeswoman for Sziget Festival said: Following concerns raised by government and pressure groups across Hungary over the past weeks at the prospect of Kneecap performing, we have liaised closely with the band and they reassured us that their performance would not contravene either Szigets values or Hungarian law. Over the past 30 years, Sziget has served as a free and safe place for different cultures, hosting artists and visitors from around the world, earning significant recognition in the international community and enhancing Hungarys reputation. We fear that the governments decision announced today to ban Kneecap may not only damage the reputation of Sziget, but also negatively affect Hungarys standing worldwide. Kneecap comprised of Liam Og O hAnnaidh, Naoise O Caireallain, and JJ O Dochartaigh were formed in Belfast and released their first single in 2017. They hit the headlines recently after O hAnnaidh, who performs under the name Mo Chara, was charged with a terror offence relating to allegedly displaying a flag in support of Hezbollah. In May, the Metropolitan Police said the group were being investigated by counter-terrorism police after videos emerged allegedly showing them shouting Up Hamas, up Hezbollah and Kill your local MP. The group apologised to the families of murdered MPs and said they have never supported Hamas or Hezbollah, which are banned in the UK. They were also investigated over their set at Glastonbury Festival in June, but last week Avon and Somerset Police confirmed they would be taking no further action. Surcharges will be axed to put money back in Kiwis pockets, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson said on Monday. Surcharges are a hassle and an unwelcome surprise when shoppers get to the till. That pesky note or sticker on the payment machine will become a thing of the past. Were banning surcharges so consumers can shop with confidence knowing how much they will pay for their purchases." Simpson said New Zealanders are paying up to $150 million in surcharges every year, including excessive surcharges of up to $65 million. "Thats money that could be saved or spent elsewhere." In the United Kingdom and across the European Union, surcharges for debit and credit cards for designated schemes are banned. Australia currently has surcharging on debit and credit cards, but this must be no more than the cost to retailers of accepting these cards. The Reserve Bank of Australia has recently proposed banning surcharges altogether for EFTPOS and Visa and Mastercard debit and credit cards. By May 2026 at the latest, we will ban surcharges for in-store payments," Simpson said. "Shoppers will no longer be penalised for their choice of payment method, whether thats tapping, swiping or using their phones digital wallet. The ban follows the Commerce Commission decision to reduce interchange fees paid by businesses to accept Visa and Mastercard payments, a move to save businesses around $90 million a year. Surcharges cover the fees businesses pay for accepting contactless payments and credit cards, but we know these are often excessive," Simpson said. In some cases, the retailer doesnt even make it clear what the percentage is. A ban on surcharges means no more surprises for people who currently feel like theyre being charged to use their own hard-earned money. It means they can make a purchase knowing exactly what theyll pay, and how theyll pay it. The Retail Payment System (Ban on Surcharges) Amendment Bill is expected to be introduced by the end of this year. The ban will apply to most in-store payments made using domestic Mastercard, Visa debit, credit cards and EFTPOS. Transactions through the Visa and Mastercard networks and by EFTPOS are the main method of card payment in New Zealand. The Commerce Commission estimates New Zealanders pay about $150 million in surcharges annually including $45-$65 million in excessive surcharges. The Commerce Commission has already announced lower interchange fees paid by businesses to accept Visa and Mastercard payments. Interchange fees make up approximately 60 per cent of merchant service fees. KUALA LUMPUR, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia continues to benefit from its close cooperation with China, particularly in the field of clean energy generation, strengthening energy cooperation and building a sustainable future for the Southeast Asian nation. Delegates at the CGN Energy International Co. Ltd. (CGNEI) Annual Gas Turbine Power Generation Conference 2025 held here on Monday were brought up to date on the latest advances in the field by Edra Power Holdings, a subsidiary of China General Nuclear Power Group, which is the second-largest independent power producer in Malaysia. Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing noted in his keynote speech that Malaysia and China have successfully collaborated in a number of emerging high-technology fields, with new energy adoption and clean power generation forming a key element of the bilateral cooperation moving forward. "Currently, the global energy landscape is undergoing profound changes, and the green and low-carbon transition has become an irreversible trend," he said. "This conference is an opportunity to further deepen cooperation between China and Malaysia in the energy sector." "We are proud to host this significant event, which serves not only as a platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange, but also as a catalyst for action in accelerating the local transition to a low-carbon and sustainable energy system," said Edra Chairman and President Jiang Xin. Held under the theme "Empowering the Future through Collective Wisdom and Win-Win Collaboration," the one-day conference gathered over 200 key stakeholders from 47 organizations across China, Malaysia and South Korea to foster industry collaboration and chart a path towards a cleaner and more inclusive energy future, including in the Southeast Asian region. About 1700 New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) union members from Tauranga and 800 from Rotorua are among the 37,000 set to strike nationwide this week. The 24-hour strike will begin at 9am on Wednesday if an agreement cannot be reached in last-ditch negotiations scheduled for Monday. Thousands of procedures and appointments will be postponed nationally if the strike goes ahead, but the NZNO said life-saving services will be maintained. Health NZ was disappointed the union planned to strike when a reasonable offer had been made. NZNO delegate Melissa Jacobsen, who works at Tauranga Hospital, said she was striking for safe staffing and wages. Jacobsen said nurses were often being asked to work 12-hour days to accommodate increasing workloads. There just arent enough nurses, doctors, healthcare workers or theatres to accommodate the ever-growing number of patients. She said patients with broken limbs or other ailments requiring a theatre were waiting at home sometimes for days before returning to hospital for surgery. We are often asked to do 12-plus hours of work in an eight-hour workday. And one-off, understaffed days are becoming the norm. Jacobsen said she worked in the nurse-led, pre-anaesthetic clinic, where nurses assessed patients who needed general anaesthetic before surgery. If patients waited longer than six months for their surgery, nurses repeated the assessment, she said. It is common and expected to find orthopaedic cases needing two or three of these update assessments. Essentially, we are doubling and tripling our workload while these patients are deteriorating waiting for their surgery one to two years down the line. Jacobsen disputed Health NZs claim of the average registered nurse making $125,000 annually. At the top of the nursing wage scale with an expert portfolio, I do not make nearly that much, Jacobsen said. Rotorua Hospital nurse and NZNO delegate Amy Donnell said she was also striking for safe staffing and to keep our nursing wage as attractive as possible to overseas nurses. They have really helped us in the past and will remain a need for us at the hospital. Donnell said union members cared for their patients and did not want to be striking. We just want to be heard. NZNO chief executive Paul Goulter said Health NZs latest offer failed to address concerns about safe staffing. Nurses, midwives and healthcare assistants are stretched too thin and cant give patients the care they need. This is heartbreaking for our exhausted members who became healthcare workers because they want to help people. Health NZ referred to earlier statements when approached for a response to Jacobsens comments. Health NZ acting chief executive Robyn Shearer had said it was disappointed NZNO was striking when a reasonable offer was on the table. The offer meant a new graduate nurse on $75,773 would gain an $8337 (or 11%) pay increase by the end of June 2026, once step progression was included. About 800 New Zealand Nurses Organisation members at Rotorua Hospital will strike for 24 hours on July 30. Photo / Andrew Warner A registered nurse on the highest step with a base salary of $106,739 would have their pay increase by $3224 to $109,963 over the same period. Shearer said the average salary for senior and registered nurses, including overtime, a professional development and recognition programmes allowance, and penal rates, was $125,662. Health NZ acknowledged nurses hard work, but it was operating within tight financial constraints. We believe further bargaining is the best way forward to resolve outstanding issues and avoid the disruption to patients of costly strike action. About 1700 New Zealand Nurses Organisation members at Tauranga Hospital are striking for 24 hours, starting at 9am on July 30. Photo / George Novak Health NZ estimated 4300 planned procedures and specialist appointments would have to be postponed because of the strike. All impacted patients would be contacted directly by hospital staff. Deferred appointments would be rescheduled for the next available opportunity. Hospitals and emergency departments would remain open during the strike. People with non-urgent ailments or injuries should first contact their GP. Health NZ chief executive Dr Dale Bramley said while contingency planning for the strike was ongoing, it was focused on progressing talks with the union to avert the strike. A bargaining meeting with NZNO was scheduled for Monday. We are committed to reaching agreement with the union so the strike notice can be lifted and avoid disruption to patients waiting for planned care and specialist appointments. Bramley said since 2011, the top salary step of a registered nurse covered by the NZNO collective agreement increased by 73.95%. Turnover in the nursing workforce had decreased from 14% in December 2022 to 8.6% in December 2024. A severe thunderstorm watch remains in place for the Bay of Plenty this morning. Heavy rain and strong winds lashed the region overnight, causing slips and some flooding. In its latest weather update, MetService said rain with heavy falls is expected to affect the Bay of Plenty about and east of Kawerau and the far north of Gisborne during Wednesday morning. The weather organisation said there is a moderate risk of downpours with rainfall intensities 25 to 40mm/h for those areas. Rainfall of this intensity can cause surface and/or flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips. Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain. Severe Thunderstorm Watch Area: Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Gisborne Period: 2hrs 30min from 7:30am - 10am Wed, 30 Jul Rain with heavy falls is expected to affect the Bay of Plenty and the far north of Gisborne during Wednesday morning, and there is a moderate risk of pic.twitter.com/tkiV2AyHS4 MetService (@MetService) July 29, 2025 People in the affected areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and monitor for possible Severe Thunderstorm Warnings. For information on preparing for and keeping safe during a storm, see the Civil Defence Get Ready website. Pilar Martinez Malaga Tuesday, 29 July 2025, 18:06 Share Andalucia is negotiating direct flights between Japan and the south of Spain - offering the regional airports of Malaga and Seville - with the airline that has the largest fleet of planes in the land of the rising sun, All Nippon Airways (ANA). The Junta's minister for tourism, Arturo Bernal, has expressed his satisfaction and optimism after the formal meeting held with the company's vice-president of global operations, who is responsible for deciding where the airline will set up new connections. "It's a step forward and a stroke of luck to have been able to be in contact with the person in charge, which demonstrates the company's interest in Andalucia", said Bernal. He added that, despite the airline's difficulties with expanding routes offered due to the lack of aircraft, it is feasible to think that, within three to five years, the southernmost region of mainland Spain could have direct flights to Japan. "The company has acknowledged that it currently does not have a direct connection with Spain, but that it is interested in growing in the medium term", he noted. "On these types of route, everything takes time and everything is influenced by the lack of aircraft. It's reasonable to think in terms of three to five years to achieve results, but it's very important to start working on this now so that the company keeps Andalucia and the airports of Malaga and Seville in mind." Zoom The Junta de Andalucia's regional tourism minister, Arturo Bernal, together with All Nippon Airways' (ANA) VP for global operations. SUR At the meeting, held as part of Andalucia's trade mission to Japan, Bernal presented a business document outlining the opportunities for implementing this new route. It includes an estimate that 156,000 Japanese travellers are currently visiting the Andalucia region via other airports, "so, it is an indirect business opportunity for the company, one it doesn't currently have." He also provided data that these visitors are of great interest because they have a high travel budget and great spending capacity, which would benefit both the airline and the destination. "The average stay is more than five days and they spend an average of 500 euros per stay," said Bernal. He described Japanese travellers as having "good purchasing power, very attracted by the uniqueness of our destination, with a high level of cultural awareness and who are interested in the essence of what Andalucia has to offer, both culturally and through its cuisine and its heritage in general." At the meeting, the delegation presented the airports of Malaga and Seville as alternatives for these direct flights and explained that both are destinations that go beyond being only destinations for tourism, as both also provide very important business development opportunities. "There are many arguments so that not only tourism, but also business, can contribute to making these airports a key player for the airline," said the regional minister for tourism. Bernal affirmed that the parties have committed to maintaining a working group between the company and the Junta to provide all the necessary information so that "in the medium term, we can address options for growth and the implementation of new routes from Japan to Spain, with the first and foremost decision being Andalucia." "I'm very optimistic and certainly satisfied, even though I'm aware of the aforementioned drawbacks that may arise, but it's crucial that they now have information about what this market represents for Andalucia and the airports discussed. They've realised that quite a number of passengers aren't being transported to the region - for example, those departing from Tokyo or Kyoto, who arrive on competing airlines. These are affluent, high-net-worth tourists buying business class tickets. They're interested in being able to recover a significant share of those tickets", said Bernal. He summed up his take on this opportunity as follows: "We're looking for a synergy between the two parties that allows us to develop a strategy to open these routes. If it were up to us, we would be ready. The airports are ready to serve the Japanese travelling public and the airline company, which is the one that values the suitability of the direct connection." Irene Quirante Malaga Tuesday, 29 July 2025, 15:46 Share An almost seven-month-pregnant woman remains hospitalised in Malaga, after her partner allegedly punched her at their home in Guaro. Her condition is stable. The police have arrested the suspect and the woman has said that she will press charges and request a restraining order. The incident happened on the night of 26 July, when the man apparently returned home in a drunken state. According to sources, an argument broke out, reportedly sparked by the man's jealousy. During the course of the argument, he allegedly attacked the woman, punching her in the eye and the stomach, as well as grabbing her by the neck. The victim's son, 12, was playing close to the house, when he heard his mother's screams. He ran to help her, but the aggressor allegedly punched him in the mouth. The mother and the young boy left the house and went to search for a relative and ask for help. The man fled the scene. The woman was taken to the health centre in Coin, from where she was transferred to Hospital Materno Infantil in Malaga. Both she and the unborn child are reported to be in a stable condition. It was the health staff who notified the National Police of the incident, in accordance with the protocol established in these cases. The police went to the hospital around 1.20am on Saturday to take the victim's statement. She described everything that had happened and stated that she would press charges and request a restraining order. The case was then referred to the Guardia Civil, who opened an investigation and arrested the suspect early on Tuesday morning. Helpline for victims of gender violence The national 016 telephone number for gender violence victims is free to call, operates 24 hours a day and is available in 52 languages. Not only victims can contact it, but also anyone who witnesses or has knowledge of a situation of abuse. The confidential service leaves no trace on the phone bill. The service is also provided via WhatsApp (600 000 016) or email - 016-online@igualdad.gob.es. If the victim is a minor, they can call the ANAR foundation's (900 202 010). In an emergency situation, victims can call the 112 emergency number or the National Police on 091 and the Guardia Civil (062). If it is impossible to make a call, you can use the AlertCops application, which sends an alert signal and your location to the police. Malaga city council has an emergency legal aid service for women (SUAM), through which victims are offered the assistance of a lawyer specialising in gender violence cases. Anybody can contact the service 24 hours a day, every day of the year (010 and 679 661 800). In the province of Malaga, there is also the Equipo de Atencion a la Mujer (EAM), which offers urgent assistance in the event of violence against women (643 011 514). Eugenio Cabezas Benamargosa Tuesday, 29 July 2025, 14:32 Share The village of Benamargosa in Malaga province's Axarquia is in mourning following the sudden death of a member of the town hall staff. Victoria Yuste Heredia, a 56-year-old cleaner, was found dead on Saturday 26 July on a street in the village. She was not working at the time of her death. The body showed no signs of violence, so the main hypothesis is that it was a natural death, possibly from a heart attack. However, the cause of death is pending the autopsy to be performed on the body at the Ciudad de la Justicia (courts) in Malaga city. Benamargosa town hall has issued a statement on its social media page expressing its condolences "at the death of our colleague Victoria Yuste Heredia, a cleaning service worker, who left us suddenly at the age of 56". The town hall posted a black ribbon as its profile picture on Facebook which has attracted many comments from residents who have also posted messages of condolence. "Rest in peace. I saw her every day with her dog, her faithful companion, who followed her everywhere. What a beautiful friendship they had. My sincere condolences to her family," wrote Antonio Fortes Hijano. Maria Jose Cortes wrote: "It's so sad, so young, rest in peace, I will always remember you sweeping those streets with your little dog, the injustices of this life." While Maria Jose Rodriguez Porras remembers her as "a good, loving woman. I have very fond memories of her, she was always a sweetheart. Another star in the sky. Fly high. My deepest condolences to her family, siblings and children. Rest in peace." The town hall said that "Victoria had been part of the municipal staff for many years and those who worked with her remember her fondly and are grateful for her daily dedication. Her absence leaves a void among us. We extend our sincere condolences to her family and friends". There were two days of official mourning, during which all planned institutional activities were suspended. Three young men between the ages of 19 and 22 were arrested by Local Police officers in Marbella on 24 July, after stealing a Rolex wristwatch and crashing through the security barrier of a car park in the town as they fled the scene. During the arrest, it was discovered that the driver of the car did not have a licence. It was around 6am when the police received a call, reporting that two watches - one of which a Rolex - had been stolen from a car park in Puerto Banus. The police managed to identify the car - a grey Volkswagen - and the licence plate through surveillance footage. Several police units were then deployed to strategic locations in the town to try to intercept the car, which was finally located in the Los Monteros area. Officers then located the three suspects. The Rolex watch was found hidden in the shoe of one of them. The other watch and a metal detector were also seized during the inspection. The three suspects were arrested and charged with robbery with violence and material damage. The driver of the car was also charged with an offence against road safety. Irene Quirante Malaga Tuesday, 29 July 2025, 15:00 Share The main suspect in a 2016 crime has been sentenced to 34 years in prison for murdering a man, 46, and seriously injuring the deceased's partner, 26, at a petrol station in Mijas. The attack had been described as an ambush, but only one of the three defendants that appeared before the court was found guilty by the jury. The Supreme Court has made the sentence final, with no possibility of appeal. The murder happened shortly after 4.15am on 19 August 2016, when the couple was picked up by a car and taken to the petrol station in the Calypso area of the Costa del Sol town. As soon as they got out of the car, those who had picked them up started to shoot them, having previously agreed to "end the life" of the victim for unknown reasons. The Colombian man was hit by bullets in the head, thorax and abdomen. He died immediately. The woman survived, although she sustained several injuries to different parts of her body, which required surgery. In addition, she is still suffering the consequences of the incident with clear signs of a post-traumatic stress disorder. The perpetrators fled the scene in the same car in which they had picked up and driven the couple and then set fire to it in a bid to eliminate any evidence. Two of the defendants were acquitted after the jury decided that their participation in the crime could not be proven. However, the main suspect was sentenced to 34 years in prison. He appealed to the High Court of Justice of Andalucia (TSJA), claiming that he had been in the Netherlands on the date of the incident. The appeal was rejected, once by the TSJA and then by Spain's Supreme Court. The defendant will have to serve the full sentence for the crime of murder, another of attempted murder and a third crime of unlawful possession of weapons. In addition, he will have to compensate the heirs of the deceased (150,000 euros) and the injured partner (50,000 euros). Ronda town hall has put the sale of the cork harvested in this year's campaign in the Montes de Propios, one of the main natural resources in the municipality, out to tender. A total of 366,000 kilograms of it will be placed on the market and the bidding period for this process started on 17 July. The municipal delegate for mountains - Juan Carlos Gonzalez - announced that the tender has been divided into three separate lots to facilitate the participation of the largest possible number of companies. Overall, the estimated value is 591,000 euros, which will generate significant revenue for the municipal coffers, while ensuring sustainable management of the public forest. The cork this year is divided into three lots. The first comprises 963 quintals, equivalent to 44,300 kilos; the second, the largest volume, is 3,600 quintals (164,900 kilos); and the third totals 3,400 quintals (157,500 kilos). These figures make it the largest campaign in recent years. Gonzalez stated that the product is of "medium-high quality", which increases its attractiveness for companies specialising in the cork industry. "We encourage all interested companies to submit their bids," he added, highlighting the economic and environmental importance of this activity for the municipality. Gonzalez stated that the product is of 'medium-high quality' A strategic resource The town hall expects to obtain around 600,000 euros from this operation, consolidating cork as one of Ronda's main resources. The income will help to finance the conservation and maintenance of the mountains - an area of great ecological and economic value. Along with the cork tender, the town hall announced that the new three-year contract for the sale of calves from the municipal livestock herd has been awarded to Nutreco. The agreement provides for the sale of approximately 150 calves during the period of validity, with an estimated income of 185,000 euros, calculated according to market prices at the time of the tender. With this operation, the town hall enhances the management of two key sectors - forestry and livestock - that provide economic value and contribute to maintaining the traditions linked to the area. SUR Malaga Tuesday, 29 July 2025, 13:31 Share Fans of roller-skating in Spain will be able to do their shopping on wheels. This is the initiative that Carrefour launched last week and that will last every day until the end of August. All of the chain's hypermarkets across the country will allocate an hour a day to this fun activity. With this initiative, the company is paying tribute to one of the most iconic images of its history in Spain, alluding to the time when some employees used to move around the shop on skates In this way, the 'Roller-Hour' for customers of the present connects with the past. This "unique" experience will take place every day between 24 July and 31 August, from 4pm to 5pm in all Carrefour hypermarkets throughout the country. With this initiative, the leading company in the hypermarket model in Spain, with more than 40% of the hypermarkets in the country, "invites its customers to rediscover its establishments in a fun, different and very summery way". It also responds to "the flood of comments on social media from people who, in recent months and years, have nostalgically been remembering the workers on roller skates in hypermarkets". Some said that being one of the employees was a dream of theirs, while others remembered how a worker on wheels would help them when they would get lost as a child. Executive director of Carrefour Spain Elodie Perthuisot said: "With 'Roller-Hour', we are bringing back a very recognisable image from our origins in Spain to demonstrate the hypermarket's ability to set trends. We want to establish the hypermarket as a living space that constantly surprises and we do so with an initiative that connects generations and arouses emotions." A symbol of agility and modernity Since its arrival in Spain in the 1970s, the hypermarket store model "has revolutionised the distribution sector and introduced new ways of operating, more efficient and groundbreaking for the time". One of the most remembered images of that time is that of employees moving around the aisles on roller skates - "a symbol of the agility, spaciousness and modernity that defined this format from its birth". Today, with 'Roller-Hour', "Carrefour recovers this pioneering spirit and projects it into the future, reaffirming its commitment to continue surprising consumers," said the retail chain. Jose Carlos Garcia Fuengirola Tuesday, 29 July 2025 | Updated 30/07/2025 12:43h. Share Next to the old Iberian broad-gauge railway station building in Fuengirola, located close to where the first train from Malaga arrived on 31 July 1975, the mayors of the western Costa del Sol met to discuss the transport situation in Malaga province. They all demanded that the Spanish government improve the C1 commuter train line. The building is now just a memory, as the tracks and station are no longer the same as they were 50 years ago. Nor are the trains or the number of stops, but one thing has not changed: the 31-kilometre route. All the mayors of the four municipalities through which the C1 commuter line runs - Malaga city (Francisco de la Torre), Torremolinos (Margarita del Cid), Benalmadena (Juan Antonio Lara) and Fuengirola (Ana Mata) - and the mayors of the municipalities where a connection is demanded - Mijas (Ana Mata), Marbella (deputy mayor Kika Caracuel), Benahavis (Jose Antonio Mena) and Estepona (Jose Maria Garcia Urbano) - joined forces to urge Spain's Ministry of Transport to "not make excuses" and take action. The province is undergoing growth in various aspects - population, urban planning, tourism and economic activity - and railway transport should be able to match that. For this reason, the councillors are asking for an improvement in the service: including the doubling of more sections of track; the extension of stations and tunnels to improve frequencies and provide the line with greater capacity; a train line to Estepona. Zoom Mayors of the Costa del Sol at the event held next to the old Fuengirola train station. Garcia The event, organised by the right-wing party PP, was also attended by head of the provincial authority Francisco Salado and president of the Partido Popular in Malaga province Patricia Navarro. According to Navarro, the Costa del Sol train is a "fundamental infrastructure" - the most "important and decisive" for the future. Demand, viability and tax reinvestment With more than 16 million passengers a year and an occupancy rate of 171% that forces 7 million people to travel on foot, the C1 is "the most important public transport infrastructure in southern Spain" and the "most profitable" commuter train line. However, "the transport service is beginning to show signs of collapse". Not only rail travel is affected by this - the A-7 motorway is suffering from daily traffic jams and many people have no access to an alternative offered by public transport. According to studies carried out by private consultancy firms and by the employers' association of construction companies (Seopan), new and modern connections, with more features, can not only make the railway system in the Costa del Sol "one of the most profitable infrastructure projects in Spain" but also make the economic return "double the necessary investment in a short period of time". Moreover, to justify their claim they have pointed out that Marbella is the only European town with more than 150,000 inhabitants that is not served by a railway line. If the growth trend persists, Mijas and Estepona are expected to exceed 100,000 inhabitants in just a few years, while Malaga province will most probably exceed 2 million "in five years". Another justification for their demand, according to the mayors, is that Malaga province contributed to the national tax revenue with 5.5 billion euros last year. For this reason, the Costa del Sol deserves to be rewarded with a reinvestment in the "most important and decisive" infrastructure. Furthermore, the PP has criticised the "favouritism" observed in the central government's investment towards the development of the Catalan Rodalies railway system. Among the demands of the mayors of the western Costa del Sol is an end to what they describe as "discrimination" against the south of Spain. Shenzhen TV: The 2025 World AI Conference & High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance closed yesterday and adopted an action plan for global AI governance. China also proposed to establish a world artificial intelligence cooperation organization, which received extensive attention. Can you further brief us on the meeting? Guo Jiakun: The 2025 World AI Conference & High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance was successfully held in Shanghai from July 26 to 28. Premier of the State Council Li Qiang attended and addressed the opening ceremony. The meeting achieved positive outcomes in the following four aspects: First, Chinas proposals on advancing AI development and governance were elaborated. Premier Li Qiang in his speech made three suggestions, namely emphasizing more on universal benefit and upholding open sharing and equitable access to AI; emphasizing more on innovation and cooperation and deepening R&D cooperation and talent exchanges; emphasizing more on common governance and fostering the framework and rules on AI global governance. Second, an action plan for global AI governance was released. The action plan draws on other countries positive experience, and proposes 13 feasible actions that aim at promoting the development and application of safe and controllable AI. The document emphasizes on the principle of respecting sovereignty and a fair and for-all approach, focuses on addressing energy and environmental issues and calls for international cooperation and coordinated governance. The action plan provides Chinas wisdom and contribution to improving AI global governance. Third, the creation of a world AI cooperation organization was proposed. This is a practical move taken by China to practice multilateralism and echo the aspiration of the Global South, as well as another international public good contributed by China. The aim is to unleash the dividends of AI, bridge the AI divide, and make sure that AI is for good. China is tentatively considering establishing the organizations headquarters in Shanghai to give full play to the citys pioneering role in the field of AI, and to pool consensus and advance cooperation. Fourth, the cooperation platform was built for exchanges and results sharing among industries, universities and research institutes. The meeting gathered together over 800 AI companies from more than 70 countries and regions, exhibited over 3,000 items of cutting-edge technology, set up an innovation incubation zone and showcased over 100 influential products who made their China or world debut at the conference. The event showcased the complete AI ecological chain of transforming underlying technologies into industrial application, and provided valuable opportunities for exchanges and cooperation in the industries. China will stay committed to deepening international cooperation on AI and working with the rest of the world to promote the open and inclusive development of AI for good and for all. CCTV: According to reports, when the Philippine President Marcos was visiting the U.S., the two sides announced military cooperation and reiterated that the Mutual Defense Treaty is extended to the South China Sea. Marcos said that modernizing the Philippine military is a direct response to the changing situation in the South China Sea, and that the U.S. deploying mid-range missiles and the two countries jointly building arsenal bases are conducive to preparations for possible future situations. Other sources say that Japan has exported six Abukuma-class destroyer escorts to the Philippines. What is Chinas take? Guo Jiakun: China opposes attempts to increase military alliance and engage in military deployment and operation targeting others under the pretext of the South China Sea issue. This will not solve any problem, still less intimidate China, and is against the common aspiration of Asia-Pacific countries of pursuing peace, development and stability. Any defense or security cooperation between the Philippines and other countries should not target any third party or meddle in the South China Sea disputes, still less provoke confrontation or escalate tensions in the region. We urge the Philippines to stop colluding with other countries to act as scaremongers and shift blame on maritime issues, and stop inviting external forces for support, or finding reasons for voluntarily joining small circles. Independence should be upheld with concrete actions, and regional peace and stability should be earnestly protected. Kyodo News: Yesterday, Japans Defense Ministry set out its first guidelines aimed at enhancing its defense in outer space. The Ministry said that China and Russia have been advancing the development of killer satellites, which are designed to neutralize the satellites of other countries, so Japan needs to enhance its defense in outer space. Whats Chinas comment? Guo Jiakun: China noted relevant reports. China is committed to the peaceful use of outer space, and opposes any arms race in outer space or weaponizing it. China actively advances negotiations for legal instruments on space arms control, and calls for the building of a community with a shared future for humanity in outer space. China firmly opposes Japans attempt to create a pretext for its own military buildup by peddling the narrative of threats from other countries. In recent years, Japan has increased defense spending annually and moved further down the path of military expansion. In outer space, Japan, the U.S. and other Western countries have kept expanding military cooperation, and used defense as a pretext to develop and deploy space weapons. These measures threaten the security and stability of outer space, and trigger the concerns of neighboring countries on the reviving militarism. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese Peoples War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. We urge Japan to take a hard look at its responsibility for the war crimes, draw lessons from history, stop hiding its true intention of military buildup by acting as a scaremonger in the region and peddling the issues related to China, and earn the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community with concrete actions. Bloomberg: The Financial Times and Bloomberg reported that the president of Taiwan Lai Ching-te was not going to be able to transit the U.S. on his apparently planned trip to South America. The Trump administration has apparently declined to allow him to transit New York. Has the Chinese government had any contact with the U.S. government ahead of this, asking the U.S. government not to allow Lai Ching-te to transit through New York or transit through the U.S.? Guo Jiakun: First of all, Taiwan is a province of China and there is no such thing as president. China noted relevant reports. Let me underscore that China firmly opposes any form of official interaction between the U.S. and the Taiwan region and firmly opposes any trip by leader of the Taiwan region to the U.S. in any name or under whatever pretext. This position is consistent, clear and firm. We hope the U.S. will abide by the one-China principle and the three China-U.S. joint communiques, handle the Taiwan question with extra prudence, and promote the steady, sound and sustainable development of China-U.S. relations. Rudaw Media Network: The Chinese investment projects within the Belt and Road Initiative in Iraq are implemented in central and southern part of Iraq, but none of them in Kurdistan. Is this your wish or Iraqs demand? Guo Jiakun: China and Iraq enjoy traditional friendship. In recent years, the two countries have carried out several important projects under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, which has played an important role in contributing to Iraqs economic recovery and the improvement of peoples livelihood. Its welcomed and well-received by the Iraqi people across the country. As its friend and strategic partner, we stand ready to continue to step up cooperation with Iraq and give a boost to its socioeconomic development. NHK: On the China-U.S. economic and trade talks in Sweden, could you offer us some updates? U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that Chinas purchases of Russian and Iranian oil and other issues concerning security will be put on the table. Whats Chinas comment? Guo Jiakun: The China-U.S. economic and trade talks are being held in Sweden. Please stay tuned. AFP: President Trump said today that he may visit China upon invitation, and claimed that the invitation had been extended. Can the Foreign Ministry confirm whether China has sent the invitation, or provide more details on this? Guo Jiakun: As for the specific issue you mentioned, please refer to the information released by China previously. AFP: Today, Thailands military accused Cambodia of violating the ceasefire reached yesterday. What is Chinas take on this? Guo Jiakun: In the past few days, the international community, especially Malaysia, the rotating chair of ASEAN, has been going between Thailand and Cambodia to promote peace talks, and jointly facilitated the leaders meeting of Cambodia and Thailand on July 28. Reaching a ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand is an important step to restore peace and calm. China commends and welcomes this. China supports Malaysia in continuing to play its role as the rotating chair of ASEAN and promoting the political settlement of the issue in the ASEAN way, and supports all efforts conducive to increasing mutual trust and deescalating the situation. As a friend and close neighbor of Cambodia and Thailand, China will maintain close communication with all parties including the two countries, and in light of the will of Cambodia and Thailand, continue to work in our own way and play a constructive role in consolidating the ceasefire agreement. Al Jazeera: Some Russian sources were referring to the spokesperson of the Kremlin that there is a possibility that President Trump could meet with President Putin when marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the World War II and the victory of the Chinese Peoples War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Any news on that? This could be the first time they meet since Trump took the office. Guo Jiakun: Both Russia and the U.S. are permanent members of the UN Security Council and major countries with influence. China is happy to see the improvement of Russia-U.S. ties and their contributions to world peace and stability. Im not aware of the specifics that you mentioned. BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Minister of Industry and Information Technology Li Lecheng on Tuesday met in Beijing with a delegation from the U.S.-China Business Council (USCBC) led by board chair Rajesh Subramaniam. The two sides exchanged views on areas such as equipment and machinery, as well as intelligent manufacturing. The ministry will, as always, provide service and support for foreign-invested enterprises, remain committed to upholding a fair, just and open market order, and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of all market entities, Li said. The minister expressed the hope that the USCBC will continue to foster an environment conducive to healthy industrial cooperation and trade between China and the United States, encourage more American companies to invest and develop in China, actively engage in the country's new industrialization drive, and deliver increasingly competitive products and services, to achieve mutual benefits and win-win results. Subramaniam applauded the ministry's pragmatic initiatives to support foreign businesses in China and pledged that the USCBC will remain steadfast in promoting the sound development of U.S.-China economic and trade relations. Cristina Vallejo Malaga Tuesday, 29 July 2025 | Updated 30/07/2025 10:17h. Share Negotiations between the European Union and the Trump administration ended on Sunday with a concession from Brussels, which agreed that goods produced in the EU countries will pass through US customs upon payment of a 15% tariff. The blow to Spain is not huge, since to far this year the USA barely accounts for 4.45% of total exports (7.26 billion euros of the total of nearly 163.4 billion euros accumulated between January and May), practically the same proportion it represented in the whole of 2024 (nearly 18.18 billion euros out of a total of nearly 384.5 billions). If last year's figure for exports to the US were to be repeated - although they had fallen by 5% as of May - the bill in the form of tariffs would be around 2.72 billion euros. Meanwhile, for Andalucia, whose exports to the United States, the region's fifth most important international customer with between 6% and 7% of total foreign sales, reaching 3.14 billion euros last year (of the more than 40 billion euros in goods and services sold overseas in 2024), the cost in the form of tariffs would be around 470 million euros. However, this year, sales from Andalucia to the US giant are also experiencing a 14% drop as of the first four months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Regarding the impact that Malaga-based companies will suffer as a result of the tariff agreement signed last Sunday by President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and US President Trump, Malaga's confederation of employers (CEM) has worked out what that could be based on the cumulative numbers to date for this year. Thus, up to May, Malaga province has exported goods to the United States worth nearly 140 million euros (13% less than in the same period last year, although this destination still represents 10% of total overseas sales so far this year, currently at around 1.4 billion euros). This figure allows the CEM to anticipate that, for the whole year, it will rise to around 300 million euros. With these projections, the CEM estimates a tariff cost of approximately 45 million euros for companies in Malaga, an economic impact that this business association describes as "significant". The CEM does concede that the new agreement brings stability and certainty to businesses. However, they are also cautious: the more detailed terms of the agreement and its real impact on the business sectors involved are still unknown, as there is talk of a 0% tariff on some strategic products. President of the CEM (also a member of the Andalusian employers' association), Javier Gonzalez de Lara, stated on Monday that, while these are significant figures, "considering the positive aspects of the agreement, it mitigates the risk of a prolonged trade war and provides certainty, although it maintains significant tariffs for key sectors in Andalucia." In terms of sectors, the data suggests that the most affected will be the olive oil sector. According to official figures for 2024, of the 308 million euros in exports from Malaga to the United States, 221.9 million euros corresponded to olive oil. Antonio Luque, president of Dcoop, quipped this Monday in statements to SUR: "It could have been just an industry scare or the death of this trade, and we have been left with a scare. Fortunately, we're not talking about 30% or 50%. We can live with it, passing it on to the consumer. It will cost us more to increase sales, but we hope that American consumers will accept slightly higher prices. Now we can breathe a little better, because now we know something. That said, we want to see the fine print, to find out if the tariff applies to both packaged and bulk products, because if the US only wanted to boost US industry with these tariffs..." While official statistics indicate that last year's olive oil exports to the United States reached 221 million euros, Luque estimates Dcoop's total exports to the US at 275 million euros. For this year, he expects the export volume to be similar to that of 2024, although money-wise, turnover will be somewhat lower due to the drop in raw material prices. In any case, and the figures speak for themselves, olive oil will be the sector bearing the brunt of the tariffs imposed on Malaga-based companies. There are other agricultural sub-sectors that will be slightly affected by tariffs and others not at all. For example, Trops, which produces and markets tropical fruit, mainly avocado and mango, points out that they are practically unaffected: "Our clients are primarily European countries. When it comes to fruit, the closer the customer, the better", say company sources. Similar statements are coming from the meat sector. Ramon Soler Ciurana, operations director of Faccsa-Prolongo and president of the meat division within the national association of meat industries in Spain (Anice), affirms that the sector's turnover in Malaga will be practically zero. The meat areas expected to be hardest hit are Iberian meat products, especially ham, which are produced in other locations. In this regard, Anice's director-general, Giuseppe Aloisio, explains that, in the case of Andalusia as a whole, meat exports to the United States have increased, but this has coincided with a slowdown in sales of products of high added value due to the uncertainty over a new tariff agreement. "We are confident that, with clear new rules, we will be able to return to the sustained rate of growth we have maintained to date. If so, we would consolidate the important positions that Andalucia's Iberian pork-processing industries in particular have achieved in the demanding North American market", says Aloisio. He then adds: "Any kind of agri-food product campaign that can be launched from Andalucia will be welcomed, following in the wake of olive oil, undoubtedly the flagship product of Andalusian exports." Wine, fish in brine, vinegar and saffron Meat is a scarce export, but other food products are among Malaga province's biggest exports to the United States: for example, non-olive oils (12.6 million euros), wine (4.4 million euros last year), as well as dried fish or fish in brine (0.9 million euros), vinegar (also 0.9 million euros) and saffron (0.8 million euros). Moreover, the list of Malaga's export sales to the US is not limited to the food sector. ICEX data shows that the second most important product after olive oil that is marketed and sold across the pond is made up of automatic instruments and devices for regulation and control (23.8 million euros). Other notable pieces of data are sales of photovoltaic panels (5.7 million euros) and electronic circuit boards for televisions and other audiovisual devices (3.1 million euros). This list of Malaga products sold to the United States brings to mind some important company names based in the province, such as Airzone (specialists in air conditioning), TDK and also Denso Ten (formerly known as Fujitsu), which had previously stated to SUR that it was affected by the uncertainty over tariffs, as its customers could be delaying investment decisions. In light of the impact of the tariffs, Gonzalez de Lara has called on both the regional government of Andalucia and central government to strengthen their support for the diversification of destination countries for the region's exports and more international promotion of Andalusian products to mitigate the new costs associated with US tariffs. Mercedes Gallego New York Tuesday, 29 July 2025, 09:55 | Updated 10:02h. Share Spain has decided to take further urgent action on the "forced famine" that people in Gaza are suffering. During a UN meeting on Monday, 28 July, foreign minister Jose Manuel Albares described the crisis in Palestine as "a disgrace for Israel and for humanity". This will immediately translate into the delivery of 5,500 food rations, which will be dropped from the air with the help of the Ministry of Defence. Albares acknowledged that this aid is just "a drop in the ocean", considering that, at the moment, more than 100,000 children - 40,000 of them infants - are at risk of starvation. "We cannot allow this," he said. The aid has been prepared by the Spanish agency for international development cooperation (AECID) and is ready to leave as soon as the Ministry of Defence organises air transport. Zoom Spain's foreign minister Jose Manuel Albares during his speech at the UN on Monday. EFE Aid in trucks from Spain is already waiting at Gaza's borders. Since the beginning of the conflict, the government has tripled the aid. Its demand is that Israel allow "free, permanent and uninterrupted" passage by land, in addition to allowing humanitarian workers, doctors, health workers and journalists, many of whom have died in record numbers, to work freely. 'Words are no longer enough' Albares's announcement was only the prelude to the strong message later delivered at the High-level International Conference on the Peaceful Resolution of the Question of Palestine, in which he called on the international community to abandon empty rhetoric and take action. "Words are no longer enough," he warned. "Today is no longer about discussing the two-state solution, but about its implementation." Spain defends a vision of a Palestinian state with political unity between Gaza and the West Bank, territorial continuity, access to the sea with a port in Gaza and a capital in East Jerusalem. The deadline for this to be implemented, according to the foreign minister, is between 12 and 15 months. "What we cannot allow - and it is clear that there are many of us who think this way - is for the State of Israel to have a kind of veto right over peace in the Middle East, a veto right over the existence or not of the Palestinian state, or worse still, a macabre veto right over the life or death of 100,000 Palestinian children." Irene Toribio Extremadura Tuesday, 29 July 2025, 18:57 Share In a small border village in the Spanish region of Extremadura stands the shortest international bridge in the world. The El Marco bridge links Spain with Portugal, crossing a physical, cultural and time border. Its peculiarity has caught the attention of British media, such as the Daily Express, the headline of which said that "you can cross an hour into the future", due to time difference between the two European countries. This bridge connects the Spanish side of El Marco (in the municipality of La Codosera, Badajoz province) with the Portuguese side in Arronches (Alentejo). At just 3.2 metres long and 1.45 metres wide, it connects two different countries and time zones, as it crosses over the quiet Abrilongo river. Locals joke that the river is so narrow during the warmer months that you don't need the bridge and you can just jump over it. The bridge was rebuilt with EU funds in 2008. The current wooden footbridge replaced an old makeshift structure, which had been used for decades by people on both sides of the border as a daily crossing between Spain and Portugal. On Saturday, Luke Bryan was performing at the North Dakota State Fair when a flying object struck him in the face. According to KFYRTV, the American Idol judge was singing his hit song Country Girl when a stress ball hit him. Footage of this unusual incident circulated online, showing Bryan, 49, glancing down at the ball and then looking at the audience before continuing his performance. Chief Deputy Larry Hubbard of the Ward County Sheriffs Office, who works with the State Fair on security, told the outlet that this behavior isnt uncommon and has been increasing over the years. It is an issue, especially when they are throwing it at all, but when theyre throwing it at the stage, at the artist. I think it paints the event in a bad light, Hubbard said. He also mentioned that before each concert at the fair, an announcement is made asking attendees not to throw things. As of now, authorities have not identified who threw the ball, and there is no ongoing investigation since no complaints have been filed. Bryan has not yet commented on the incident. This isnt the first time a celebrity has been struck by items thrown by fans. In May, SZA left a meet-and-greet after a fan threw a bracelet at her. Furthermore, back in June 2023, Bebe Rexha was famously hit in the face by a cell phone during a concert in New York, causing her to collapse and require stitches for a cut above her eye. That same month, a fan threw a bag reportedly containing their mothers ashes onto the stage during a Pink concert. Other artists like Harry Styles, Lil Nas X, Cardi B, and Drake have also experienced similar situations where objects were thrown at them while performing. The Stray Cats are hitting the road again this fall for the first time since guitarist Brian Setzer revealed an autoimmune disease diagnosis earlier this year. The legendary rockabilly trio will embark on a month-long North American tour, with more than 20 shows across the country, beginning October 25 and running through November 23. The tour will include a stop in Verona on November 8 at The Event Center at Turning Stone Resort Casino. How to get Stray Cat concert tickets Tickets for the 2025 fall tour will go on sale to the general public on August 1 at 10 a.m. local time via Ticketmaster and secondary platforms such as Vivid Seats, SeatGeek and StubHub. Fans can access early presale tickets starting July 29 through the bands official fan club. Additional presale opportunities will follow. Discount: First-time Vivid Seats customers can use code SYRACUSE20 for $20 off a $200+ ticket order. More about The Stray Cats The Stray Cats, comprised of Setzer (guitar, vocals), Lee Rocker (upright bass, vocals) and Slim Jim Phantom (drums, vocals), are best known for their iconic tracks like Stray Cat Strut, Rock This Town and Runaway Boys. The Stray Cats upcoming tour continues to build on the success of their 2019 album 40, which marked their first studio release in 26 years. Setzer has also maintained a successful solo career, including the release of his latest album, The Devil Always Collects, in 2023, and he continues to lead the Brian Setzer Orchestra. The 2025 tour comes after a challenging period for Setzer, who had been dealing with an autoimmune disease affecting his hands. Earlier this year, he shared his condition with fans, explaining that it had temporarily impaired his ability to play guitar. However, Setzer has since made significant progress in his recovery. Stray Cats 2025 tour dates Saturday, Oct. 25 - Mount Pleasant, MI - Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort Sunday, Oct. 26 - Rockford, IL - Hard Rock Casino Tuesday, Oct. 28 - Louisville, KY - The Louisville Palace Wednesday, Oct. 29 - Indianapolis, IN - Murat Theatre at Old National Centre Friday, Oct. 31 - Columbus, OH - Mershon Auditorium Saturday, Nov. 1 - Gary, IN - Hard Rock Casino Sunday, Nov. 2 - Northfield, OH - MGM Northfield Park - Center Stage Tuesday, Nov. 4 - Morristown, NJ - Mayo Performing Arts Center Wednesday, Nov. 5 - Westbury, NY - Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair Friday, Nov. 7 - Mashantucket, CT - Foxwoods Resort Casino Saturday, Nov. 8 - Verona, NY - The Event Center at Turning Stone Resort Casino Sunday, Nov. 9 - Port Chester, NY - The Capitol Theatre Tuesday, Nov. 11 - Cincinnati, OH - Taft Theatre Thursday, Nov. 13 - Kansas City, MO - Uptown Theater Saturday, Nov. 15 - Albuquerque, NM - Route 66 Casino Hotel - Legends Theater Sunday, Nov. 16 - Phoenix, AZ - Celebrity Theatre Tuesday, Nov. 18 - Highland, CA - Yaamava Resort & Casino at San Manuel Wednesday, Nov. 19 - Las Vegas, NV - The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas Thursday, Nov. 20 - TBA - TBA Saturday, Nov. 22 - Santa Rosa, CA - Ruth Finley Person Theater Sunday, Nov. 23 - Wheatland, CA - Hard Rock Hotel & Casino By Colin Kinniburgh | New York Focus This story originally appeared in New York Focus, a nonprofit news publication investigating power in New York. Sign up for their newsletter here. A judge indicated Friday that he will likely rule that New York is breaking its climate law. Ulster County Supreme Court Justice Julian Schreibman on Friday skewered a lawyer for the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) who argued that the state could not issue required regulations to cut greenhouse gases any time soon. It seems to me that the core of your argument is that were living in a time of change and uncertainty, and DEC needs to be given some leeway to accommodate that, Schreibman said. Thats correct, your honor, replied Meredith Lee-Clark, of the New York State Attorney Generals office, who was representing DEC. I dont know that Ive ever lived in a time that wasnt one of change and uncertainty, so I dont know how that is a governable standard, the judge continued. Schreibman went on to say that the most relevant cases in the record almost compel him to side with the plaintiffs: four climate justice groups who sued the state for violating its climate law by failing to issue regulations needed to meet it. However, he suggested that he is unlikely to force the state to take action on the kind of timeline the plaintiffs lawyer suggested in the hearing as little as 30 days to issue draft regulations and 100 days to finalize them. The four climate groups sued the state in March, following Governor Kathy Hochuls decision in January to slam the brakes on what was expected to be her signature policy to implement New Yorks climate law: cap and invest. The policy was crafted to meet one of the climate laws key requirements, namely that the state issue regulations by 2024 to achieve steep emissions cuts starting this decade. Regulators were preparing to issue cap and invest rules, belatedly, at the start of this year, but Hochul unexpectedly shelved them. In court, her administration argued that the state has been forced to hold off on launching the carbon pricing program which could reshape the states economy in the face of post-pandemic economic disruption and new resistance from the federal government. Lee-Clark called climate change a generational problem that DEC is working its hardest to solve and listed a variety of efforts the state has made to address it, including a new $1 billion fund the governor put in this years budget. Schreibman remained skeptical. Its not my role to give anyone a gold star for how well theyre doing. The issue here is compliance with the climate law, he said. Lee-Clark leaned heavily in oral arguments on the federal governments sharp turn against climate action under President Donald Trump. But that occurred more than a year after DECs climate regulations were due, the judge pointed out. He noted that the legislature had had opportunities to revise climate law deadlines, but had chosen not to, and said it was not up to him to grant the agency more time. I dont understand how the agency can just say, We decided that this cant work right now, Schreibman said. Asked to react to Fridays hearing, DEC and the attorney generals office did not immediately respond. DEC has previously said it does not comment on pending litigation. Rachel Spector, a lead attorney for the plaintiffs at the environmental law group Earthjustice, said she was encouraged by how it went. We feel good coming out of the argument, she said. The judge, I think, saw that the law is on our side here. Its unclear how strict of an order the judge might impose if he comes down on the plaintiffs side. He said it was highly unlikely that he would force the state to act before it could appeal the case to a higher court. If the state were to appeal, the case could drag on for months or more, potentially pushing the fight past Hochuls reelection bid and as far as 2027 around the time DEC has suggested that it might be ready to reopen the carbon pricing discussion. In the hearing, Lee-Clark said the administration was still committed to creating an economy-wide emissions-reducing system and suggested it would involve some form of carbon pricing, like cap and invest but that the details and timeline remained unclear. As things get messier, it is even more important that DEC is given the time it needs to get things right, Lee-Clark said, referring to the Trump administration and other headwinds. Spector said she recognized the obstacles, but noted that one of the key aims of New Yorks climate law passed in 2019, during Trumps first term was to set the state out as a leader in a time of federal retrenchment. I dont want to minimize the practical difficulties that the federal administration is creating for climate action. Those are real, she said. That doesnt mean DEC gets to opt out of the state climate law. By Brendan J. Lyons | Times Union, Albany Albany, N.Y. The state attorney generals office has reached a settlement with the Clinton County Sheriffs Office that calls for the department to improve conditions at the county jail following a more than two-year investigation into allegations that female correction officers and inmates were subjected to sexual harassment, retaliation and gender-based discrimination. The Times Union first reported on the investigation last year, which unfolded in parallel to allegations listed in multiple civil rights lawsuits on behalf of four women and unnamed inmates who were subjected to years of sexual and workplace abuse. The alleged misconduct ranged from unwanted sexual advances by male co-workers to jail supervisors refusing to take action against correction officers overtly committing sexual harassment. Their allegations also included that supervisors turned a blind eye to male inmates who would masturbate in front of the women or disobey orders, and that multiple officers would expose themselves or send explicit photographs, including images of their genitalia, to female colleagues. Some of the former female correction officers also alleged that they faced retaliation and discrimination, including unfavorable work assignments such as forced overtime and not receiving breaks. Some were also targeted in disciplinary investigations that they said had been based on fabricated charges and manipulated to get them fired or to resign after they filed formal sexual harassment complaints three years ago. The settlement made public Monday an assurance of discontinuance was the first with a county sheriffs office by the attorney generals Law Enforcement Misconduct Investigative Office, which was established under state Executive Law in June 2020 to investigate allegations of misconduct among a multitude of law enforcement agencies. The attorney generals office concluded in the settlement that the sheriffs office had violated state and federal civil rights laws. Although the sheriffs office admitted no wrongdoing, it also agreed to take multiple actions to adhere to its policies and the law, and also to improve conditions in the facility. Women corrections officers should never fear showing up to work, and incarcerated women should not be afraid of the individuals responsible for their safety, said Attorney General Letitia James. This agreement puts Clinton County on the correct path forward to improve conditions and ensure a safe and secure environment for both corrections officers and incarcerated women. I thank the Clinton County Sheriffs Office for its willingness to work together to address reports of misconduct and harassment and implement real changes to improve conditions. The investigation began in February 2023, after the attorney generals office had received complaints alleging misconduct at the jail. The office said its investigation focused on the policies, procedures, and practices at the jail and included an extensive review of (sheriffs office) records, a visit to the jail, and interviews with (sheriffs office) employees and individuals formerly incarcerated at the jail. The investigation details that had been previously reported by the Times Union, including that jail administrators did not follow through as required under their policy to complaints submitted by multiple women regarding persistent sexual harassment, including unwanted physical contact, sexual comments, and requests for sexual acts. The women also experienced retaliation and were discouraged from reporting additional complaints to the Department of Personnel, according to the attorney generals office. In addition, during (the) investigation, formerly incarcerated women alleged misconduct by male employees, including touching and groping of intimate areas of incarcerated women, purposely brushing or rubbing up against incarcerated women, and sexual comments, the office said in a release. The (sheriffs office) was previously made aware of some of these allegations and conducted interviews with some of the women, but otherwise... did not contemporaneously memorialize the investigation or any findings. The settlement announced Monday calls for the sheriffs office to take steps to ensure a safe and secure environment for both incarcerated individuals and (correction officers) and also to adopt new policies and procedures, provide additional training, and develop and implement strategic plans to prevent misconduct toward incarcerated individuals and to prevent workplace sexual harassment, subject to input and approval from (attorney generals office). The sheriffs office also has agreed to retain an independent monitor for four years to report on the departments compliance with the settlement. Last year, the Times Union reported that Clinton County and its insurance carrier paid more than $362,000 to settle federal lawsuits that had been filed by the four former female correction officers who said they had been subjected to sexual harassment and abuse by male co-workers. The county paid $50,000 its deductible under the policy in the settlements reached with Makayla Suddard, Johannah Sorrell, Mandi Devins, and Regina Moore. The settlement documents the county released in response to a request filed under the state Freedom of Information Law indicate Suddard and Sorrell were each paid $120,000; Moore received $56,000 and Devins was paid $66,500. (Their attorneys fees and legal costs, ranging from $19,843 to more than $41,000, were paid from those settlement amounts to Kaplan and Kaplan, a Vermont law firm that handled the cases.) County officials had previously told local news outlets in the North Country area that the settlement was for $50,000, but did not clarify the full amount paid by the countys insurance company. In a statement last year, the county also asserted that it was a risk management decision. The cases were settled early in the lawsuits after consulting with the countys attorneys in this matter, in order to avoid the expense of drawn-out litigation, the statement said. The decision to settle was made even though the county believed there were valid defenses to the claims. A fifth lawsuit filed in state Supreme Court by a former Clinton County correction officer, Dominique Boulerice, was settled in September. In that case, Boulerice has made similar allegations of sexual harassment and also, like the others, accused the administration of Sheriff David N. Favro of enabling the misconduct and failing to stop it. Favro previously disputed that he did not follow guidance from the countys Department of Personnel in those cases. He said that one of the officers accused of misconduct was going to be terminated, but had resigned first. Other officers were disciplined as recommended. The recommendations that were written down said there can be anything from a verbal reprimand to termination, and then I recommend for this officer A, B and C, he told the Times Union previously. All that was done, plus additional discipline was taken, including financial penalties. The agreement released Monday does not indicate that any of the officers accused of misconduct will be terminated. Last year, a county legislator told the Times Union that she and other lawmakers thought those officers would be fired. Honestly, I would have handled it a little different, but thats me. I think the county actually acted appropriately when we responded to recommend the officers be fired, Clinton County Legislator Patty A. Waldron said in March 2024. After that, its out of our hands. Waldron was referring to the fact the final decision on any discipline or termination rested with Favro, a former Plattsburgh city detective who has been the countys sheriff for more than two decades. When our personnel (department) recommended that these officers be terminated, thats what we thought would happen, and it didnt happen, Waldron said. Favro did not respond to a request for comment on Monday. Suddard worked at the jail in the north end of the city of Plattsburgh from April 2019 until March 2023. Her federal complaint said the misconduct of a correction officer she worked with had been especially egregious and persistent, including him allegedly telling her that he wanted to rape her in the parking lot. Her lawsuit said that officer had been the subject of numerous similar complaints from female employees and inmates for years, but had never faced discipline and is still employed at the facility. Records indicate sexual harassment and other workplace misconduct allegations have been prevalent in the Clinton County jail for more than a decade. In 2014, an investigation by the countys deputy administrator found that a former undersheriff had violated the agencys workplace policies, including creating an offensive and hostile environment for a female employee with whom he had a personal attraction. The evidence in that case included a handwritten note the undersheriff sent the female officer giving her money for a Christmas present for herself or her child, but requesting that she not buy anything from a womens lingerie store Victorias Secret unless you send me a picture. The undersheriff was suspended for 30 days, according to records in the case. Other internal investigations of sexual harassment and sexual abuse against male employees at the jail also ended with suspensions or minor discipline, rather than terminations or criminal charges. In March 2021, Suddard and two other female correction officers filed personnel complaints against several male colleagues, including a correction officer who was later accused of misconduct by Boulerice in the lawsuit filed in state Supreme Court. He was accused of grabbing a female co-worker and pulling her into a room as he tried to unbuckle his pants. She fought him off and got away, the complaint says. Although the countys Department of Personnel concluded, after an investigation, that at least three male correction officers had violated the agencys policies on sexual harassment, the sheriff suspended two of the officers for 30 days with pay and allowed a third to resign. He did not seek to discipline or terminate them, according to court records. The officer who resigned kept his peace officer certification with the state, records show. 2025 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) . Visit www.timesunion.com. BEIJING, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Liang Jinwen, one of China's most wanted graft fugitives, has returned to China and turned himself in after 28 years at large overseas. Born in February 1954, Liang was formerly a general manager of an automobile brake company in Zhuhai, south China's Guangdong Province. He was suspected of seizing property by taking advantage of his position before fleeing abroad in November 1996. In December 1997, Interpol issued a Red Notice for Liang. The return and surrender of Liang came after joint efforts by disciplinary watchdogs and public security organs of both Guangdong and Zhuhai, fully demonstrating China's firm stance and determination to pursue every fugitive and bring them to justice, according to the Fugitive Repatriation and Asset Recovery Office of China's Central Anti-Corruption Coordination Group. Liang is the 64th individual apprehended on China's list of the top 100 Red Notice corruption fugitives and is notable for being the earliest among them to have fled abroad. Washington A coalition of 20 state attorneys general, including New Yorks Letitia James, filed a lawsuit Monday challenging the Trump administrations demand that their states turn over personal data of people enrolled in a federally funded food assistance program, fearing the information will be used to aid mass deportations. The data demand comes as the Trump administration has sought to collect private information on mostly lower-income people who may be in the country illegally. It has already ordered the Internal Revenue Service and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to share private information with the Department of Homeland Security to aid in deportation efforts. The U.S. Department of Agriculture told states last week that it had until Wednesday to hand over the data for those enrolled in its Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, which serves more than 42 million people nationwide. The USDA said the data will help it combat waste, fraud and abuse. The states lawsuit seeks an injunction to block the data transfer. In the meantime, state attorneys general in the SNAP lawsuit said they will not disclose what they consider to be private information of recipients including their immigration status, birthdates and home addresses because they believe it would be a violation of privacy laws. Its a bait-and-switch of the worst kind, California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a Monday afternoon news conference announcing the lawsuit. SNAP recipients provided this information to get help feeding their families, not to be entered into a government surveillance database or be used as targets in the presidents inhumane immigration agenda. Families should be able to get the food assistance they need without fearing that they will be targeted by this administration, James said. I will not allow the SNAP benefits that millions of New Yorkers count on to be put at risk. We are suing today to stop this illegal policy and protect New Yorkers privacy and access to food assistance. In May, the department announced it was seeking the data as part of President Donald Trumps executive order to obtain data from state programs to help root out fraud and waste. For years, this program has been on autopilot, with no USDA insight into real-time data, USDA Secretary Brooke L. Rollins said in a statement at the time. The Department is focused on appropriate and lawful participation in SNAP, and todays request is one of many steps to ensure SNAP is preserved for only those eligible. USDA officials declined a request for comment on the suit. The USDA did not mention immigration enforcement in the announcement or later notices. It is not clear why USDA officials believe the data will help it weed out fraud and abuse. The agency claims the program is already one of the most rigorous quality control systems in the federal government. Immigration advocates noted that the Trump administration has used the same argument to obtain other sensitive data, only to later admit it would be using the information to enhance its deportation operations. Trump administration officials, for example, initially claimed they were seeking state Medicaid data to fight fraud. Last week, a top immigration official conceded they would be utilizing that same information to locate immigrants. Agency officials have threatened to withhold SNAP funding if states fail to comply with their demand for data. While immigrants without legal status are ineligible to receive SNAP benefits, they can apply on behalf of their children who are U.S. citizens or those who are part of a mixed-status household. Under the program, formerly known as food stamps, the federal government pays for 100% of the food benefits, but the states help cover the administrative costs. States are also responsible for determining whether individuals are eligible for benefits and for issuing those benefits to enrollees. Immigration and data privacy advocates expressed alarm at the Trump administrations efforts to obtain sensitive SNAP data maintained by states. The administration has all but told us that their intention is to comb this data and use it for unlawful purposes that include immigration enforcement, said Madeline Wiseman, an attorney with the National Student Legal Defense Network, which filed a lawsuit in May with privacy and hunger relief groups that are also challenging USDAs efforts for SNAP data. President Donald Trump said Monday he is disappointed in Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump said during an appearance in the United Kingdom that he would shorten a 50-day negotiating window on the Russian invasion of Ukraine to just 10 or 12 days. Trump said earlier in July that Putin had 50 days to accept a ceasefire or face new sanctions. Im disappointed in President Putin, very disappointed in him, Trump said, according to ABC News. So were going to have to look and Im going to reduce that 50 days that I gave him to lesser number, because I think I already know the answer whats going to happen. Im going to make a new deadline of about 10 or 12 days from today, Trump said later in the press conference. Theres no reason in waiting. I want to be generous, but we just dont see any progress being made, Trump added, according to ABC. Im not so interested in talking anymore. He talks, we have such nice conversations, such respectful and nice conversations, and then people die the following night in a -- with a missile going into a town and hitting. The White Houses frustration with Putin has been growing in recent months, ABC said. Putin has repeatedly dodged ceasefire proposals while ramping up strikes on Ukrainian cities and its frontline offensives. Both the U.S. and Ukraine want an immediate ceasefire, after which a peace deal could potentially be negotiated, ABC said. Russia wants significant concessions from Ukraine before negotiations start, including demilitarization and abandonment of its ambitions to join NATO. Trumps current attitude toward Putin is at odds with his long history of praising the Russian leader. When Russias invasion of Ukraine began in 2022, Trump called Putin genius and savvy, according to Politico. He has also repeatedly said Putin is a strong leader and smart, among other compliments. By Phillip Pantuso | Times Union, Albany, N.Y. (TNS) Kingston, N.Y. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has taken legal action against the acting clerk of Ulster County, Taylor Bruck, over Brucks repeated refusal to file a summary judgment and court summons against a New York doctor who allegedly mailed abortion pills to a Texas patient. Paxtons office on Monday said it had submitted a petition seeking a writ of mandamus from a New York court that would compel Bruck to file the Texas ruling in state court. He has so far twice refused to do so, citing New Yorks telehealth abortion shield law. In a statement issued shortly after 1 p.m., Bruck confirmed that he had been sued in his official capacity as acting county clerk for upholding New York states Shield Law. While pending litigation limits what I can share, I want to make clear that it is an honor to serve Ulster County in this role, and I am especially grateful to do so at such a critical moment for our county, our state, and the protection of fundamental rights under New York law, the statement reads. The doctor, Margaret Daley Carpenter, is accused of mailing abortion pills to a patient in Texas, where she is not licensed to practice medicine and where abortion access is severely restricted. In December, Paxton filed a civil lawsuit against her in Texas state court. Carpenter failed to appear in court or otherwise respond to the lawsuit, so a Texas judge issued a summary ruling, levying a $100,000 penalty and an injunction. But it is not enforceable in New York, where the states telehealth shield law protects Carpenter. That prompted Paxton to send a motion to Ulster County in March ordering Bruck to file the ruling in New York state court, which would authorize its enforcement. After consulting with legal experts and New Yorks attorney generals office, Bruck rejected the motion. The (shield) law is very clear: It says that no government employee or agency shall comply with any out-of-state (abortion-related) proceeding, civil or criminal, he told the Times Union at the time. We are government employees. This is a proceeding. It is civil. A judgment is part of a civil case. And so in my opinion, theres really no gray area. Telehealth shield laws, which eight states have enacted so far, stipulate that officials and agencies will not cooperate with prosecutions or lawsuits against doctors and other medical facilitators for prescribing abortion medication to patients in other states, including where the care is restricted. Medication has long been the most common means of abortion in the United States, accounting for nearly two-thirds of them by 2023. Gov. Kathy Hochul signed New Yorks law in June 2023, a year after the U.S. Supreme Courts Dobbs decision overturned Roe v. Wade. At the time, Hochul said New York was continuing to fight back against restrictive abortion laws and help more people access the care they need. Earlier this year, Hochul signed another law that allows New York doctors to prescribe abortion medication out of state anonymously. Several New York officials, including Bruck, believe Texas attempts to enforce the ruling across state lines are a precursor to a federal lawsuit seeking to overturn New Yorks shield law. If such a case reaches the U.S. Supreme Court, it could imperil shield laws nationwide, opening a new front in the battle between states that permit abortion and those that ban or severely restrict it. Carpenter, who is based in New Paltz, is a founder and co-medical director of the Abortion Coalition for Telemedicine. She faces a separate indictment in Louisiana which, like Texas, has imposed a near-total ban on abortion for allegedly mailing pills to a patient in that state. Dr. Carpenter is a radical abortionist who must face justice, not get legal protection from New York liberals intent on ending the lives of as many unborn children as they can, Paxton said in a statement. No matter where they reside, pro-abortion extremists who send drugs designed to kill the unborn into Texas will face the full force of our states pro-life laws. Carpenter has declined comment in recent months as her legal cases play out. In a statement, Hochul grouped Paxton among the extremists (who) are determined to punish a New York doctor for providing safe, legal abortion care. Its pathetic. Its dangerous. And it wont happen on our watch, she said. 2025 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. TURb BHPian Join Date: Dec 2024 Location: Mumbai Posts: 94 Thanked: 313 Times Re: Is it risky to buy an Old Car now? Will the Delhi-like 10-year diesel ban come to other cities? Quote: V0rtex Originally Posted by Hi everyone, the used car market looks pretty solid right now, at least in terms of the options available. Cars that were once out of our reach are much more accessible thanks to the NGT rules banning them in NCR regions. This has brought a lot of 10 year old diesel and 15 year old petrol cars to other states, especially in my home state Kerala. I can see a lot of HR26 and DL cars in the cities. For around 20 lakh, one can buy a really good E Class or 5 Series instead of a Virtus or Verna or a wannabe sub 4 meter SUV. My hands have been tempted to check this out as a daily driver and long term car. But my friends and family have advised me against it. I totally understand that maintaining these cars is a task. However, they have also warned me that there is a good chance a similar ban might come into effect across India, and if that happens, my car could just become scrap. Studies are ongoing in Maharashtra to ban such vehicles. India aims to decarbonize energy by 50 percent and achieve 500 gigawatt of fossil fuel free generating capacity by 2030. Are we really at risk by buying older cars? First thing first, you (may) need to spend around 1.5 Lac upfront upon purchase for the necessary servicing or part replacements and add around 50K on annual maintenance to keep the car in shape. So, even buying it will be comparatively easy, but maintaining them will not be as easy as Verna or Virtus. In Maharashtra, some study was going on, but it is limited to the Mumbai region only, AFAIK. Well, While you are absolutely right that one can buy a 10-year German luxury at a tempting price, maintaining them will not be very easy.First thing first, you (may) need to spend around 1.5 Lac upfront upon purchase for the necessary servicing or part replacements and add around 50K on annual maintenance to keep the car in shape. So, even buying it will be comparatively easy, but maintaining them will not be as easy as Verna or Virtus.In Maharashtra, some study was going on, but it is limited to the Mumbai region only, AFAIK. sandeepmohan Senior - BHPian Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Wellington Posts: 3,327 Thanked: 6,506 Times Re: Moving and Settling down in New Zealand Quote: Vinod_nair Originally Posted by Congratulations Sandeep on your new home, and the detailed write up. On a side note: Sri Lanka buys all its milk from NZ, is it so? It must be full of dairies? I know New Zealand Apples and Lamb make their way to India. My parents buy NZ Apples once in a while. What surprised me on our last trip to India was the discovery of NZ lamb as an option at Punjab Grill restaurant! Quote: ninjatalli Originally Posted by If it is possible, I would love to hear a summary / viewpoint from your wife. With the struggle of finding a job, my wife decided to volunteer for The Salvation Army store. This was a 4 hour gig each day (Unpaid). This was done primarily to get her out of the house for some time. It was mentally taxing after a point when you keep writing cover letter after cover letter, send your Resume, only to get rejection letters and in many cases, no response at all, or worse, an automated response. My wife was forced to learn how to drive. I think this was a good thing. In India, she had the luxury of me driving her around, hopping an auto or a bus for everything she needed to do. Over in NZ, we do have buses but Uber-ing around can get expensive. Learning how to drive gave her a lot of independence, though in the end, I'm still driving her around mostly. The first paid job my wife landed was at the neighborhood gas station. We may consider this as embarrassing but over here in NZ, a job like this still commands some respect. She held this job for a good 3+ years. We don't technically classify this as "A Job", cause who cares for anyone who works at a petrol pump. This was mentally and physically hard for her, cause coming from a desk job, it was a feeling like you're in a dumpster. 6am start to her day, ending at 2pm. Straight to school to pick up our son. Head back home. Start cooking, preparing for the next day. It didn't break her but I could see it happening at some point. However, for her, this was an income. It offered her some financial independence. Not that we needed it. In the middle of all of this, she was chasing one job Job Application after another. You may wonder why I did not write this in the main post? I ran out of space being the first thing. Second was a job like this does not count for experience in New Zealand, as we later discovered. This was a shocker and further added to a barrier in terms of finding work. Truth be told, why on earth would you hire someone who worked at a gas station! In short, all her working experience from India had become irrelevant due to a gap in her resume. She feels safe in New Zealand. When she does not feel like driving, she hops the bus or train, if she needs to go somewhere to meet her friends, etc. More than me, my wife is the one who built up our friends circle. Mostly parents from school. An observation she has found is the "initiation" towards people meeting up. Unless you take the initiative, you may seldom hear back. Whats worse is that we found this more among "Indians" in our small friends group. There isn't a desire to meet. So she decided to move on from there. My wife is Sikh. In India, Sikh folk are all about community. Over in NZ, my wife does not have a single "Sikh" friend. She could somehow not get along with anyone or there was some sort of resistance, in spite of the fact that she used to perform for the "giddha" group. There is an absolute lack of respect for an individuals time. Quote: Nempuguru Originally Posted by What about the local language Maori? Is it mandatory in school? Are you conversing in Maori or any local language other than English in day-to-day life? Public announcements in Trains include the Maori language. Quote: praful Originally Posted by 10 years ago, me and the wife had our honeymoon in the South Island of NZ, touring almost 2 weeks on a motorcycle, and we fell in love with the country. I got a motorcycle 5 years ago and have penciled the experience of riding in New Zealand on the common Royal Enfield Interceptor thread. My bike is usually in hibernation during the winter months, as I can't deal with the cold. So while I find myself pushing to ride, in the end I'm battling freezing temperatures that its no longer enjoyable. The wind is another issue so before I hit the road, a quick weather App wind check is on the cards, usually the day before I ride. The choice of motorcycle, as I have now discovered is equally critical. If I could turn the purchase clock back, I would have picked up a Himalayan instead. The Interceptor is cramped (For me) and not so stable for the road conditions we have in New Zealand. Also, with roads not being so fast here, you can't really push it anyway. Quote: Jeroen Originally Posted by We would love to visit NZ sometime. But it is an incredible long journey to get there from western Europe. Maybe in the future. Quote: Route66 Originally Posted by We did a 12 day road trip of South Island and about a week on North Island. Quote: Utopian Originally Posted by Also wanted to know on how is the India diaspora around Welligton? Quote: Rubbertramps Originally Posted by Read the entire post! Easy to read and interesting facts bout NZ. Canada is similar. 1. Healthcare is much worse! Wait time sometimes extends to 18 months for a specialist ! 2. Realtor fees is worse in Canada where its 2 to 3% of the selling price. 1 million dollar home will result in $10000 for the realtor. This made many people flock into realtor career path and led to lot of false promises and jacked up prices. 3. Home Insurance costs around 1200$ per year for a 2500 sqft home. 4. Car insurance is really high ranging from 200$ - 500$ per month depends on the car and various other factors that the individual does not have control over ! 5. Utility bills are almost the same costing around 300$ 6. Canadians are similar in culture. They are friendly outdoors. We cant expect to be invited to their house ! Can't blame them ! Its the cultural differences ! People now dont see the point of moving abroad because now they can save around 1 - 2 lakhs per month in India. But the quality of air, drinking water, availability of green zones for common middle class families and a slightly better justice system for a common man are all factors that needs to be considered ! As a Buyer, there is no Realtor fee you need to pay in New Zealand. Our Insurance costs $3,853/year, for the size of the house and land we own. Its only for the house only. No contents. The high cost is mostly due to the risks associated with Earthquakes and flooding. Fully comprehensive Vehicle Insurance for my 12 year old BMW is $741/year Utility bills (Power, Gas and Internet) can get upto $411/month and thats in Winter months. Drops to half (or less) during Summer. Note that a lot of this depends on the type of heating you use. Blast one of those electric fans or radiators all day and you're in for even higher bills. Health Insurance cost $1,975 per year (No Dental included) for 3 of us. It is not mandatory. We have it for the "just in case" situations as it costs an arm and a leg for any critical medical needs or surgeries. Regular GP visits can cost up to $74 Generally speaking, you must check with multiple providers when the time comes to renew Insurance, power and gas. A review of the rates each year is to your benefit. Else you can end up paying a lot more. Quote: sudeepg Originally Posted by Is education also expensive over there? Private colleges are expensive. You can pay up to $20,000 NZD per year. University is also equally expensive. I don't know about Sri Lanka buying milk from NZ. Thats quite a trip to be shipping milk when you have a trading partner (India) right next door that produces the most amount of milk.I know New Zealand Apples and Lamb make their way to India. My parents buy NZ Apples once in a while. What surprised me on our last trip to India was the discovery of NZ lamb as an option at Punjab Grill restaurant!I shall convey some of what I know. Shall also ask my wife to pen down some of her thoughts.With the struggle of finding a job, my wife decided to volunteer for The Salvation Army store. This was a 4 hour gig each day (Unpaid). This was done primarily to get her out of the house for some time. It was mentally taxing after a point when you keep writing cover letter after cover letter, send your Resume, only to get rejection letters and in many cases, no response at all, or worse, an automated response.My wife was forced to learn how to drive. I think this was a good thing. In India, she had the luxury of me driving her around, hopping an auto or a bus for everything she needed to do. Over in NZ, we do have buses but Uber-ing around can get expensive. Learning how to drive gave her a lot of independence, though in the end, I'm still driving her around mostly.The first paid job my wife landed was at the neighborhood gas station. We may consider this as embarrassing but over here in NZ, a job like this still commands some respect. She held this job for a good 3+ years. We don't technically classify this as "A Job", cause who cares for anyone who works at a petrol pump. This was mentally and physically hard for her, cause coming from a desk job, it was a feeling like you're in a dumpster. 6am start to her day, ending at 2pm. Straight to school to pick up our son. Head back home. Start cooking, preparing for the next day. It didn't break her but I could see it happening at some point. However, for her, this was an income. It offered her some financial independence. Not that we needed it. In the middle of all of this, she was chasing one job Job Application after another.You may wonder why I did not write this in the main post? I ran out of space being the first thing. Second was a job like this does not count for experience in New Zealand, as we later discovered. This was a shocker and further added to a barrier in terms of finding work. Truth be told, why on earth would you hire someone who worked at a gas station! In short, all her working experience from India had become irrelevant due to a gap in her resume.She feels safe in New Zealand. When she does not feel like driving, she hops the bus or train, if she needs to go somewhere to meet her friends, etc.More than me, my wife is the one who built up our friends circle. Mostly parents from school.An observation she has found is the "initiation" towards people meeting up. Unless you take the initiative, you may seldom hear back. Whats worse is that we found this more among "Indians" in our small friends group. There isn't a desire to meet. So she decided to move on from there.My wife is Sikh. In India, Sikh folk are all about community. Over in NZ, my wife does not have a single "Sikh" friend. She could somehow not get along with anyone or there was some sort of resistance, in spite of the fact that she used to perform for the "giddha" group. There is an absolute lack of respect for an individuals time.Unfortunately and regrettably, I have not picked up any Maori. I can say a word or two and thats it. It is not mandatory in school. Its kinda hard to put this language into your daily life when you have nobody to speak to (Depending on your working group).Public announcements in Trains include the Maori language.A motorcycle is hands down a different experience, provided the weather plays along. I am glad you did this. Few would even consider touring on a motorcycle when visiting another country.I got a motorcycle 5 years ago and have penciled the experience of riding in New Zealand on the common Royal Enfield Interceptor thread. My bike is usually in hibernation during the winter months, as I can't deal with the cold. So while I find myself pushing to ride, in the end I'm battling freezing temperatures that its no longer enjoyable. The wind is another issue so before I hit the road, a quick weather App wind check is on the cards, usually the day before I ride.The choice of motorcycle, as I have now discovered is equally critical. If I could turn the purchase clock back, I would have picked up a Himalayan instead. The Interceptor is cramped (For me) and not so stable for the road conditions we have in New Zealand. Also, with roads not being so fast here, you can't really push it anyway.Indeed, quite a bit far from where you are. A pit stop in Singapore can break the journey. Still, it is a long way. Do let me know when you make that trip.The best way to see New Zealand is by road. Most folks skip this and fly everywhere, as you are usually time bound. I'd say that for anyone visiting Kiwi Land, plan as much as possible to drive a bit and also brace yourself for not very fast and narrow roads. The legal speed limit is 100 Kmph for 99.9% of roads. There are a handful of stretches that permit 110kmph, legally. However, compared to India, these roads can put you to sleep cause there isn't much vehicular traffic.The Indian community is quite thin in the main Wellington CBD area or Eastern suburbs (where we live). Areas such as Newlands and the Hutt Valley is where most Indians are. Houses are cheaper to buy and rent, being the main drive for a higher population in those areas.For comparison, here's what we pay...in your currencyGenerally speaking, you must check with multiple providers when the time comes to renew Insurance, power and gas. A review of the rates each year is to your benefit. Else you can end up paying a lot more.We have not paid a single $ towards our sons primary school education. Our son started college this year (9th grade) and this was the first time we had paid a fee of ~$500 NZD.Private colleges are expensive. You can pay up to $20,000 NZD per year. University is also equally expensive. Last edited by sandeepmohan : 25th July 2025 at 06:35 . GAZA, July 29 (Xinhua) -- At least 30 Palestinians were killed Tuesday in a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting residential homes in al-Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, said a local hospital. The victims, mostly women and children, were killed in a heavy aerial bombardment in the "New Camp" area north of Nuseirat, one of the most densely populated zones in central Gaza, said Al-Awda Hospital in the refugee camp. "The majority of the victims arrived in pieces due to the severity of the explosions," the hospital said in a press statement, adding that the casualties followed several strikes that began in the early hours of the morning and targeted multiple civilian homes. The hospital noted that it had reached full capacity, with medical teams operating "under enormous pressure." Some patients had suffered critical injuries, but a shortage of medicine and medical supplies was hindering treatment, it said. Local residents told Xinhua that eight members of a single family were killed when their home was struck without prior warning. The building was completely destroyed while the family was inside, they said. Due to the destruction and shortage of emergency services, local residents were forced to use donkey carts to transport the dead and wounded. "It was a tragic and shocking scene," Mohammed al-Hour, a local Palestinian man, told Xinhua. He said that the area was subjected to "relentless shelling for over an hour," blocking evacuation and aid efforts. "Ambulances arrived very late. We had to carry people using whatever means we could find," he added. Meanwhile, Israeli forces carried out a limited ground attack near the al-Mughraqa area and Wadi Bridge, northeast of Nuseirat, targeting agricultural lands and the outskirts of residential neighborhoods with tanks and heavy artillery fire, local residents told Xinhua. "We suddenly saw tanks advancing while warplanes bombed nearby houses. We had no choice but to flee," Ahmed Saidam, a displaced resident, told Xinhua. "We felt trapped from every direction. The strikes also caused extensive damage to homes and infrastructure in the area," he said. Civil defense teams said in a press statement that they are still attempting to reach the bombed locations to search for survivors and retrieve bodies, but their efforts were hampered by continued shelling and a severe lack of equipment. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli army on these incidents. The escalation in Nuseirat comes amid a worsening humanitarian situation across the Gaza Strip, where residents have been facing severe shortages of food, clean water and medicine since Israel launched large-scale operations in October 2023. In its continued effort to make gaming safer for everyone, Xbox is introducing a new age verification requirement for adult players in the UK. This update comes in line with the UKs Online Safety Act and its continued push to make its platform secure, respectful, and enjoyable for everyone. In other words, users who are 18 and older, based in the UK, will begin receiving prompts to complete a one-time age verification process for logging into Xbox with a Microsoft account, as the new initiative aims to ensure age-appropriate experiences while keeping social features like voice chat, text messaging, and game invites accessible. What Is The Online Safety Act? The Online Safety Act 2023 (the Act) is a law that was passed in the UK in October 2023 to make the internet safer, especially for children and vulnerable users. It places legal responsibilities on tech companies to identify and reduce harmful content on their platforms. What To Expect Beginning today, as part of our compliance program for the UK Online Safety Act and our ongoing investments in tools and technologies that help ensure age-appropriate experiences, players who indicate their account age as 18 and over, based in the UK, and signing into an Xbox experience with a Microsoft account will begin seeing notifications encouraging them to verify their age, Kim Kunes, Vice President of Gaming Trust & Safety, Xbox, wrote in a news release on Monday. This one-time process for players in the UK ensures we can continue to provide all players on our platform with age-appropriate experiences. Further, starting early next year, adult players in the UK who havent completed the one-time verification process will see some limits on the use of social features on Xbox. While the users will be able to play and enjoy their games, the social features will be restricted to friends-only until verification is completed. However, this verification wont affect any previous purchases, entitlements, gameplay history, achievements, or the ability to play and purchase games. How To Verify Age Players can verify their age using a range of secure methods, including proof of government-issued ID, age estimation, mobile provider check, and credit card check. Xbox assures players that all personal information is encrypted, kept private, and used only for the verification process. It is not stored or used for any other purpose. To start the process, UK players can scan the QR code shown on Xbox platforms or visit: https://aka.ms/XboxUKAgeVerification. More details, including step-by-step instructions and privacy details, are available at: aka.ms/XboxUKAgeSupport. Availability Xbox says that the online age verification in the UK will help shape similar safety efforts globally. It will not be restricted to the UK and is expected to roll out to more regions in the future with adjustments to meet local regulations and community needs. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to player safety, so these methods may look different across regions and experiences. Well work with local communities, publishing partners and regulators to determine the right approach that both respects player privacy and doesnt take away from the Xbox gameplay experience, Kunes added. Well continue to communicate the changes were making to our practices and the data we collect so we can better protect players on our platform. If you are an adult Xbox player in the UK, verifying your age now will help you avoid any disruptions to your social gaming experience. It is a simple step that helps keep the Xbox community safer, more inclusive for everyone. MADRID, July 29 (Xinhua)-- Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Monday urged the European Union (EU) to "diversify" the country's commercial relations, following the announcement of a new EU-U.S. trade agreement reached late Sunday. Speaking at his residence in Madrid ahead of the summer parliamentary recess, Sanchez told the press that he "valued" the "efforts the European Commission has made." He said the trade deal showed that "one of the lessons Europe has to make in the face of the U.S. administration is that we have to get our act together in every aspect: in strategic autonomy and in commercial agreements with other countries." "We have to diversify our commercial relations with blocs that want an agreement with Europe, such as Mercosur," said Sanchez, stressing that Spain's foreign policy was based on "commitment to peace, reality and cooperation between nations." U.S. President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the new deal on Sunday, following trade talks at the Trump Turnberry in South Ayrshire, Scotland. Although both leaders described the agreement as a step toward restoring "trade balance" and promoting more equitable two-way commerce, the deal allows the United States to impose a broad 15 percent tariff on EU goods while securing zero-tariff access for a range of strategic American exports. In contrast, the EU has pledged to purchase 750 billion U.S. dollars' worth of American energy and commit an additional 600 billion dollars in investments in the United States. Heavy rain leaves 30 dead in Chinese capital Beijing, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 Heavy rain in the Chinese capital Beijing has killed 30 people and prompted authorities to evacuate 80,000, state media said Tuesday. Intense rainstorms have pummelled swathes of northern China this week, including the capital and the provinces of Hebei, Jilin and Shandong. As of midnight Monday, "the latest round of heavy rainstorms has left 30 people dead in Beijing", state news agency Xinhua said, citing the city's municipal flood control headquarters. Over 80,000 people have been evacuated in the Chinese capital alone, local state-run outlet Beijing Daily said on social media. It added that "continuous extreme heavy rainfall caused major disasters". The death toll was highest in Miyun, a suburban district northeast of the city centre, it said. Also badly affected were Huairou district in the north of the city and Fangshan in the southwest, state media said. Dozens of roads have been closed and over 130 villages have lost electricity, Beijing Daily said. "Please pay attention to weather forecasts and warnings and do not go to risk areas unless necessary," the outlet said. In Miyun, a resident surnamed Liu said he watched floodwater sweep away vehicles outside his apartment block early Monday morning. AFP journalists there saw a crawler lift people and a dog to safety as rescuers waded through water up to their knees. Nearby, in the town of Mujiayu, AFP journalists saw a reservoir release a torrent of water. Power lines were swept away by muddy currents while military vehicles and ambulances ploughed flooded streets. Firefighters also rescued 48 people trapped in an elderly care centre, CCTV reported. - 'All-out efforts' - Chinese President Xi Jinping urged authorities late Monday to plan for worst-case scenarios and rush the relocation of residents of flood-threatened areas. Beijing Daily said local officials had "made all-out efforts to search and rescue missing persons... and made every effort to reduce casualties". The government has allocated 350 million yuan (USD$49 million) for disaster relief in nine regions hit by heavy rains, state broadcaster CCTV said Tuesday. They include northern Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Inner Mongolia, northeastern Jilin, eastern Shandong and southern Guangdong. A separate 200 million yuan has been set aside for the capital, the broadcaster said. In Hebei province, which encircles the capital, a landslide in a village near the city of Chengde killed four people, with eight still missing, CCTV reported Monday. Local authorities have issued flash flood warnings through Tuesday evening, with Chengde and surrounding areas under the highest level alert, Hebei's radio and television station said. In 2023, heavy rain killed over 80 people across northern and northeastern China, including at least 29 people in Hebei where severe flooding destroyed homes and crop fields. Some reports at the time suggested the province shouldered the burden of a government decision to divert the deluge away from the capital. Natural disasters are common across China, particularly in the summer when some regions experience heavy rain while others bake in searing heat. China is the world's biggest emitter of the greenhouse gases that scientists say drive climate change and contribute to making extreme weather more frequent and intense. But it is also a global renewable energy powerhouse that aims to make its massive economy carbon-neutral by 2060. Flash floods in the eastern Shandong province killed two people and left 10 missing this month. A landslide on a highway in Sichuan province this month also killed five people after it swept several cars down a mountainside. 'Food on table' outweighs health risks for Philippine e-waste dismantlers Manila, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 Dexter Barsigan has spent the past 13 years making a living with his bare hands and a pair of pliers, stripping scrapped laptops and air conditioners for metal he can sell to junk shops in the Philippines. But since his hands began aching and his vision started to blur three years ago, there have been days he can only watch his wife and nephew do the job for him. The 47-year-old father of three is a "mambabaklas", the Filipino word for informal dismantlers who scavenge electronic waste for the nickel, aluminum and copper inside. "Dismantling helps us put food on the table. It provides the money to send my kids to school," Barsigan told AFP while sitting along a kilometre-long stretch of Onyx Street, home to hundreds of fellow "e-waste" dismantlers. Their work frequently involves burning away rubber wire casings, releasing a toxic brew of chemicals including lead, mercury and cadmium into the air. Both the Philippine government and the Basel Convention, a global waste management treaty signed by 191 countries, consider e-waste hazardous. "It poses serious threats to human health and the environment," said Irvin Cadavona, a hazardous waste management officer with the environment department, citing health risks ranging from cancer and neurological diseases to respiratory illnesses and birth defects. The World Health Organization said last year exposure to e-waste chemicals can lead to incidents of asthma and reduced lung function in children, while pregnant women are at higher risk for stillbirths and premature delivery. "It's very hard to recycle these (chemicals). When you dismantle (e-waste), you must intricately break it down. It can be very hazardous," Gelo Apostol, an environmental health specialist from Ateneo de Manila University, told AFP. Exposure to the substances can lead to anemia, kidney and thyroid diseases, and nerve damage, he said. The Philippines is among the top e-waste generators in Southeast Asia, according to the United Nations' Global E-waste Monitor, accounting for 540 million kilograms (about 600,000 tons) in 2022. Dismantlers who work at the country's accredited facilities are required to follow stringent guidelines. But their informal counterparts lack the training, regulations and protective equipment needed to properly protect themselves. "I strongly believe that some Filipinos are getting sick because of the exposure to e-waste," Cadavona said. - Burning rubber - Barsigan, who doesn't wear a mask while working, prefers dismantling computer circuit boards with aluminum and copper because they fetch as much as P470 ($8) per kilo. But circuit boards have especially high concentrations of toxic metals that can cause nerve damage when breathed in, Apostol said. While illegal, Onyx Street's e-waste dismantlers also routinely burn wires to extract copper, which is faster than peeling them by hand. Rosana Milan, physician-in-charge at Manila's Pedro Gil Health Center, said her clinic has diagnosed half of the 12,000 people living along the street with respiratory issues, most of them children. "It's very risky for the babies, the toddlers and even the school children... they're sitting beside their father while the father is... burning the rubber," Milan told AFP. "Mostly they have pneumonia, upper and lower respiratory illness, even if they have vaccines." Dismantler Sammy Oligar said his one-year-old grandchild had been diagnosed with pneumonia that a doctor attributed to pollution caused by the burning. "The smoke would enter from our window and the child would inhale it," Oligar told AFP, adding that many of his neighbors were dealing with lung illnesses. - 'What are we waiting for?' - Medicins du Monde (MdM), a French humanitarian organisation providing gloves, masks and safety orientations for the dismantlers of Onyx Street, is calling for the recognition of informal e-waste workers. "Health is clearly not their first priority. Their priority is to have food on the table," Eva Lecat, general coordinator of MdM, told AFP. "If (their work) was legal and recognised and regulated, there would be ways to protect people and communities." Cadavona, the waste management officer, said the informal nature of the picker-junkshop relationship made it "very hard" to establish formal recognition for the community. Apostol, the faculty researcher, said an "evidence gap" created by the lack of studies specific to dismantlers might be contributing to a lack of urgency. "But remember, many of the chemicals found in e-waste already have extensive studies on their health effects," Apostol said. "What are we waiting for? To have nationwide data of people who died from e-waste before we take action?" Worried he will be unable to afford treatment, Barsigan told AFP he has avoided doctors, instead putting ointment on his hands and taking a cheap, over-the-counter pain reliever. Once his hands feel a little better, he said, he will put them back to work. "If I stop dismantling, it's as if I have also given up the hope of a better life for my children." CORRECTED: 'Food on table' outweighs health risks for Philippine e-waste dismantlers Manila, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 Dexter Barsigan has spent the past 13 years making a living with his bare hands and a pair of pliers, stripping scrapped laptops and air conditioners for metal he can sell to junk shops in the Philippines. But since his hands began aching and his vision started to blur three years ago, there have been days he can only watch his wife and nephew do the job for him. The 47-year-old father of three is a "mambabaklas", the Filipino word for informal dismantlers who scavenge electronic waste for the nickel, aluminum and copper inside. "Dismantling helps us put food on the table. It provides the money to send my kids to school," Barsigan told AFP while sitting along a kilometre-long stretch of Onyx Street, home to hundreds of fellow "e-waste" dismantlers. Their work frequently involves burning away rubber wire casings, releasing a toxic brew of chemicals including lead, mercury and cadmium into the air. Both the Philippine government and the Basel Convention, a global waste management treaty signed by 191 countries, consider e-waste hazardous. "It poses serious threats to human health and the environment," said Irvin Cadavona, a hazardous waste management officer with the environment department, citing health risks ranging from cancer and neurological diseases to respiratory illnesses and birth defects. The World Health Organization said last year exposure to e-waste chemicals can lead to incidents of asthma and reduced lung function in children, while pregnant women are at higher risk for stillbirths and premature delivery. "It's very hard to recycle these (chemicals). When you dismantle (e-waste), you must intricately break it down. It can be very hazardous," Gelo Apostol, an environmental health specialist from Ateneo de Manila University, told AFP. Exposure to the substances can lead to anemia, kidney and thyroid diseases, and nerve damage, he said. The Philippines is among the top e-waste generators in Southeast Asia, according to the United Nations' Global E-waste Monitor, accounting for 540 million kilograms (about 600,000 tons) in 2022. Dismantlers who work at the country's accredited facilities are required to follow stringent guidelines. But their informal counterparts lack the training, regulations and protective equipment needed to properly protect themselves. "I strongly believe that some Filipinos are getting sick because of the exposure to e-waste," Cadavona said. - Burning rubber - Barsigan, who doesn't wear a mask while working, prefers dismantling computer circuit boards with aluminum and copper because they fetch as much as P470 ($8) per kilogram. But circuit boards have especially high concentrations of toxic metals that can cause nerve damage when breathed in, Apostol said. While illegal, Onyx Street's e-waste dismantlers also routinely burn wires to extract copper, which is faster than peeling them by hand. Rosana Milan, physician-in-charge at Manila's Pedro Gil Health Center, said her clinic has diagnosed half of the 12,000 people living along the street with respiratory issues, most of them children. "It's very risky for the babies, the toddlers and even the school children... they're sitting beside their father while the father is... burning the rubber," Milan told AFP. "Mostly they have pneumonia, upper and lower respiratory illness, even if they have vaccines." Dismantler Sammy Oligar said his one-year-old grandchild had been diagnosed with pneumonia that a doctor attributed to pollution caused by the burning. "The smoke would enter from our window and the child would inhale it," Oligar told AFP, adding that many of his neighbors were dealing with lung illnesses. - 'What are we waiting for?' - Medecins du Monde (MdM), a French humanitarian organisation providing gloves, masks and safety orientations for the dismantlers of Onyx Street, is calling for the recognition of informal e-waste workers. "Health is clearly not their first priority. Their priority is to have food on the table," Eva Lecat, general coordinator of MdM, told AFP. "If (their work) was legal and recognised and regulated, there would be ways to protect people and communities." Cadavona, the waste management officer, said the informal nature of the picker-junkshop relationship made it "very hard" to establish formal recognition for the community. Apostol, the faculty researcher, said an "evidence gap" created by the lack of studies specific to dismantlers might be contributing to a lack of urgency. "But remember, many of the chemicals found in e-waste already have extensive studies on their health effects," Apostol said. "What are we waiting for? To have nationwide data of people who died from e-waste before we take action?" Worried he will be unable to afford treatment, Barsigan told AFP he has avoided doctors, instead putting ointment on his hands and taking a cheap, over-the-counter pain reliever. Once his hands feel a little better, he said, he will put them back to work. "If I stop dismantling, it's as if I have also given up the hope of a better life for my children." French health experts speak out against bee-killing pesticide Paris, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 French health experts and patient associations on Tuesday urged authorities to protect the public from a bee-killing pesticide, saying the chemical could also harm children and adults. The legislation to reintroduce in France acetamiprid, a pesticide that is harmful to ecosystems but popular with many farmers in Europe, was adopted on July 8, but without a proper debate to bypass gridlock in a divided parliament. The move sparked anger in France, and support for a student-initiated petition against the legislation has snowballed, with university lecturers, left-wing lawmakers and star chefs backing it. The petition had garnered more than 2 million signatures by Tuesday. Health experts and patient associations have now weighed in, saying in an open letter in French daily Le Monde that they cannot back "a law that is dangerous to the health of our fellow citizens". President Emmanuel Macron, who has been under increasing pressure to act, said he is waiting to hear the verdict of the Constitutional Council, which is expected to rule on the constitutionality of the law on August 7. The health experts and patient associations urged the Constitutional Council to reject the legislation, calling on its members to "respond to the democratic demand strongly expressed by French citizens". The signatories included Agnes Linglart, president of the French Paediatric Society, Olivier Coutard, president of the scientific council of France's flagship scientific research centre CNRS and Gerard Socie, president of the scientific council of the National Cancer Institute. The Constitutional Council, the letter said, must protect future generations from the legislation that "without a shadow of reasonable doubt compromises the health of young people, children and the unborn". The letter said the Senate committee preparing the bill heard from agricultural unions and government agencies but not "doctors, toxicologists or epidemiologists". The senators did not consult representatives of the CNRS, health and labour ministries, even though occupational exposure to pesticides is a risk factor for humans, the letter said. Citing the INSERM health and medical research organisation, the letter pointed to evidence of a link between exposure to pesticides and the occurrence of cancers, neurodegenerative, pulmonary and hormone-related disorders. Banned in France since 2018, the chemical remains legal in the European Union. Fossil-fuel pledge in EU-Trump deal sparks climate fears Brussels, Belgium, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 The EU is promising colossal new US fossil fuel purchases under its trade deal with President Donald Trump, raising concerns for the bloc's climate fight -- should the mammoth pledges come true. As part of the framework agreed Sunday, the EU said its companies would buy $750 billion of liquefied natural gas, oil and nuclear fuels from the United States -- split equally over three years -- to replace Russian energy sources. Many experts believe the eye-watering figure to be unrealistic -- and point out that market dynamics rather than EU policymakers dictate companies' energy choices. Even on the supply side, Simone Tagliapietra of the Bruegel think-tank noted that the United States might not be able to build the additional export capacity within such a short time frame. Brussels insists the number was not plucked out of thin air to keep Trump happy, but was based on an analysis of energy needs as it phases out Russian imports because of the Ukraine war between now and 2027. The proposed increase would mean more than tripling annual energy imports from the United States -- about $70 billion last year -- and equate to well over half the 378 billion euros' worth of overall EU energy imports last year. - 'Submission' - A large part of the EU's additional billions would go to imports of LNG, which is transported in liquid state to European ports before being converted back to gaseous form and injected into the bloc's power network. The United States currently account for about half of the EU's LNG imports, ahead of Russia on 20 percent -- a figure Brussels wants to cut to zero to choke off income that helps fund the war in Ukraine. But environmental groups warn against a massive switch to American LNG extracted in part though hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, which uses explosives to create cracks in rock formations to release oil and gas deposits. The highly polluting process comes with steep costs to both the climate and local environment, and is banned in a number of European countries. "The Commission risks replacing one disastrous dependency with another -- unplugging Putin's gas and plugging in Trump's," Greenpeace warned when the EU's phase-out plans were presented. Francois Gemenne, a policy expert who co-authored the UN's most recent IPCC report on climate change, in 2023, accused the EU of "submission" to Trump's pro-fossil fuel agenda. Elected on a promise to "drill, baby drill," the US leader is openly hostile to renewable energy efforts and lashed out again at windmills "ruining" the landscape before meeting with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen in Scotland last weekend. For Aymeric Kouam of the Strategic Perspectives think-tank, the energy deal with Trump is both "dangerous and counterproductive" and imperils its goal to become carbon neutral by 2050. "Tying Europe's energy future to the US as a main supplier undermines the bloc's energy security strategy, anchored in supply diversification, renewable energy development, and energy efficiency increase," he said. The EU pushed back at the charge on Tuesday. "This agreement does not contradict our medium- to long-term decarbonisation objectives or targets at all," a commission spokesperson told reporters of the three-year energy pledge. The Trump trade deal comes as the EU debates its 2040 emissions-reduction target, a key step towards its net zero goal. The commission has proposed a target of cutting emissions by 90 percent compared to 1990 levels, but with new flexibilities to win over reluctant member states. The EU says it has already cut climate-warming emissions by 37 percent relative to 1990, but its green agenda faces pushback with a rightward shift and rising climate scepticism in many European countries. NEW YORK, July 28 (Xinhua) -- An active shooter shot at least one police officer and one civilian at an office building in Manhattan, New York City on Monday, local media reported. Police have been responding to the situation and asked people to avoid the vicinity of East 52nd Street between Park Avenue and Lexington Avenue. "At this time, the scene has been contained and the lone shooter has been neutralized," said New York City Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch on social media. US pushes to revoke scientific ruling that underpins climate regulations Washington, July 29 (AFP) Jul 29, 2025 President Donald Trump's administration on Tuesday moved to reverse a foundational scientific determination that underpins the US government's authority to limit greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles and, more broadly, to combat climate change. Speaking at an auto dealership in Indianapolis, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin argued that the 2009 Endangerment Finding was based on flawed reasoning and had inflicted serious economic harm. "If finalized, today's announcement would amount to the largest deregulatory action in the history of the United States," he said, standing alongside Energy Secretary Chris Wright, who added his department had carried out a new study about climate science. The proposed move -- first announced in March -- will be subject to a 45-day public comment period and is certain to face legal challenges. While Zeldin cast the move as a way to reverse what he called the "Biden-Harris administration's electric vehicle (EV) mandate," revoking the Endangerment Finding could also unravel the legal basis for a wide array of climate regulations, including those on power plants and oil and gas operations. In his remarks, Zeldin accused the EPA under former president Barack Obama, a Democrat, of making "mental leaps" in determining that heat-trapping gases posed a threat to public health and welfare. The EPA said in a press release that the finding had "been used to justify over $1 trillion in regulations" and undoing it would save $54 billion annually. The Endangerment Finding was grounded in overwhelming scientific consensus and peer-reviewed research. It followed a landmark 2007 Supreme Court ruling that found greenhouse gases qualify as air pollutants under the Clean Air Act and directed the EPA to revisit its position. Transportation accounts for 28 percent of US greenhouse gas emissions -- more than any other sector. According to a recent analysis by the nonprofit Natural Resources Defense Council, if it were a country, the US transportation sector would rank as the fourth largest emitter of greenhouse gases globally, while the power sector would be fifth. - Legal battle looms - Environmental groups and states are expected to swiftly sue. The case could ultimately reach the Supreme Court, which may need to overturn its own 2007 precedent to side with the current Republican administration. Dan Becker of the Center for Biological Diversity told AFP the Endangerment Finding has survived multiple legal challenges by industry over the years. "But this time, it's the government itself mounting the attack," he said. "Hopefully they will recognize that this is science and not politics -- that there was a good reason for that precedent and no good reason to revoke it," said Becker. "But this is a very political court." He added that the administration's cost-saving arguments were misleading, pointing to official data showing that rules now targeted for repeal saved the average American driver $6,000 in fuel and maintenance over the lifetime of vehicles built under the standards. "It's abundantly clear what's going on here," said Gretchen Goldman, president of the Union of Concerned Scientists. "The Trump administration refuses to acknowledge robust climate science and is using the kitchen sink approach: making every specious argument it can to avoid complying with the law." Since returning to office, Trump has withdrawn the US from the Paris Agreement and launched a sweeping campaign to expand fossil fuel development -- including new moves this week to open ecologically sensitive areas of Alaska to drilling. The announcement comes as the planet swelters under record heat. Tens of millions of Americans are baking under a brutal heat dome in the Southeast, while climate-fueled flooding earlier this month killed more than 100 people in Texas. SUVA, July 29 (Xinhua) -- A young mother of two was mourned by her loved ones following her tragic death in what police believe to be a case of domestic violence. Makelesi Balekana, 25, died after a violent altercation at her home in Lautoka. "We just heard them arguing. Then it became a fight. Things happened so fast," her sister-in-law recalled. Family members rushed to the scene and transported Makelesi to Lautoka Hospital. Tragically, doctors pronounced her dead on arrival, Fiji Broadcasting Corporation reported on Tuesday. According to police, her husband fled the scene after the incident but later returned and was taken into custody. A full investigation was underway, and police were treating the case as a suspected domestic violence-related homicide. Domestic violence in Fiji is pervasive, one of the highest rates globally. According to the Fiji Women's Crisis Center, an estimated 64 percent of women in intimate relationships in Fiji have experienced physical or sexual violence at the hands of a partner. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Amid the praise for Quentin Tarantinos film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, one eagle-eyed celebrity viewer spotted a glaring historical inaccuracy in the blockbuster flick. The moment occurs towards the end of the film, when Leonardo DiCaprios character Rick Dalton is reported to have arrived back in Hollywood from Europe on a Boeing 747. But it was John Travolta, who is a plane enthusiast and trained pilot, who said that this would have been impossible given the film is set in 1969. Well, the 747 had its test flight in February 1969, but it went into service in January 1970. Theyre nine months off! He would have been on a Boeing 707! he said. We can forgive Tarantino for that. But its hard to believe that some slip-ups whether its Judy Garland without her ruby red shoes in The Wizard of Oz or Julia Roberts eating a croissant that gets swapped for a pancake in Pretty Woman actually made it through the editing process. According to the website Movie Mistakes, Captain Marvel starring Brie Larson features no fewer than 60 errors over its two-hour duration. Is there a film where somebody hasnt screwed up? Here, we list 29 mistakes in films that you might not have caught. Batman (1989) open image in gallery Batman 1989: 'Gentleman Let's Broaden Our Minds, Lawrence!' The Tim Burton-directed superhero film has several mistakes, but a major one happens when Joker and his crew deface paintings at a museum. One of his gang members slaps a painting with his hands that are covered in red paint, but in the next shot, the handprints have disappeared from the artwork. Once Upon a Time In Hollywood (2019) open image in gallery Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt in Once Upon a Time... In Hollywood' ( Sony ) Rick Dalton, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, flies back to Hollywood on a Boeing 747. But it would have been a 707. The film was set in 1969 and the 747 went into service in January 1970. The Graduate (1967) open image in gallery ( Embassy Pictures ) Dustin Hoffmans character drives in the wrong direction across the Bay Bridge in San Francisco on his way to Berkeley, California. He is travelling on the top deck of the bridge for traffic going from California to San Francisco. Pretty Woman (1990) There is a continuity issue at breakfast when Julia Robertss character takes a bite out of a croissant. Shes in the hotel room with her co-star Richard Gere, but when the camera pans back to her, it transforms into a pancake. Then when she takes a second bite out of the pancake, there is only one bite mark in it. open image in gallery Pretty Woman ( Touchstone/Kobal/Shutterstock ) North by Northwest (1959) open image in gallery ( MGM ) One of the children playing an extra in Alfred Hitchcocks film covers his ears a few seconds before Eva Marie Saints character unexpectedly fires a gun at Cary Grants character in the Mount Rushmore cafeteria. Pulp Fiction (1994) open image in gallery ( THA/Shutterstock ) Bullet holes can be seen in the walls of the apartment where John Travolta and Samuel L Jacksons characters go to get a briefcase, but its before the shoot-out has happened. Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003) open image in gallery ( Warner Bros ) John Connors Cessna plane numbers keep changing in the film. When he is in the hangar on the runway it is N3035C, but once its flying, the numbers change to N3413F. The Wizard of Oz (1939) open image in gallery Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale in The Wizard of Oz ( MGM ) Judy Garland isnt wearing her iconic ruby red slippers in the scene where the trees pelt Dorothy and the Scarecrow with apples. Instead, she can be seen wearing plain black shoes. American Sniper (2015) open image in gallery The baby that Bradley Cooper holds while adapting to civilian life after the Iraqi War is plastic. In fact, it looked so fake, even he admitted it was nuts. Independence Day (1996) open image in gallery ( Claudette Barius/20th Century Fox/Kobal/Shutterstock ) When computer expert David Levinson, played by Jeff Goldblum, is throwing a tantrum in the hangar housing the captured alien craft, he knocks over a bin that is labelled Art Dept. Clearly, a set designer left it there by mistake. The Fast and the Furious (2001) open image in gallery ( Univeral Pictures ) In a scene when Jesse and Tran race, Tran is wearing a shirt with sleeves, but in the next shot hes in a tank top. Didnt anybody notice when they edited it? Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (2011) open image in gallery ( Warner Bros ) We were always told that Harry Potter had his mothers blue eyes. But when we see Lily Potter as a child, she has brown eyes. Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope (1977) open image in gallery Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford in 'Star Wars Episode IV - A New Hope' in 1977 ( Lucasfilm/Fox/Kobal/Shutterstock ) As a group of stormtroopers enter a control room, one of them accidentally bangs his head on a door. The actor responsible, Laurie Good, couldnt believe it made it into the final film. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003) open image in gallery ( Moviestore/Shutterstock ) There is a crew member wearing a cowboy hat and looking out to sea behind Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow on the pirate ship. Quantum of Solace (2008) open image in gallery Bond girl: Gemma Arterton with Daniel Craig in Quantum of Solace (2008) ( Mgm/Columbia/Eon/Kobal/Shutterstock ) A street cleaner behind Daniel Craigs James Bond is pretending to sweep the road but is holding his broom several inches off the ground. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) open image in gallery ( Buena Vista Pictures ) When Bianca accidentally shoots a gym teacher with an arrow, an extra, who is playing a student, runs off to get urgent help but once she thinks she is out of shot, she stops and looks back at the camera. Braveheart (1995) open image in gallery ( Icon/Ladd Co/Paramount/Kobal/Shutterstock ) There is a modern car in the background of a big battle scene. Considering the film is set in the 13th century, its hard to imagine how it stayed in the final cut. Django Unchained (2012) open image in gallery ( TWC ) Leonardo DiCaprio accidentally cut his hand while filming a scene in which he slams his hand on the table and breaks a glass. But rather than shout cut, he carried on in character. Tarantino liked it so much that he kept it in the film. Captain Marvel (2019) open image in gallery ( AP ) Many of the mistakes are related to the films 1990s time period. These include computers using a wrongly dated version of Windows and Carol Danverss memories being jogged by a Nirvana song that wasnt out until after she left Earth. Spider-Man (2002) open image in gallery ( Shutterstock ) Tobey Maguires Spider-Man saves Kirsten Dunsts Mary Jane from a group of attackers. He throws them through a set of windows before he kisses her upside down in the rain. But during their romantic embrace, the windows behind her are perfectly intact. Halloween (1978) open image in gallery ( * ) John Carpenters slasher film starring Jamie Lee Curtis was set in the fictional town of Haddonfield, Illinois, but all the cars have Californian number plates and there are shots of palm trees, as the film was shot in Southern California. The Goonies (1985) open image in gallery ( Shutterstock ) At the end of the cult film, Data tells news reporters that the octopus was really scary, but this actually refers to a deleted scene. It was only added back in for the Disney Channel version. Avengers: Endgame (2019) open image in gallery ( * ) Eagle-eyed fans have noted that Ant-Man can be seen in two places at once during the final battle scene in the van, and in his giant form, fighting alongside the other Avengers. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002) open image in gallery ( Shutterstock ) Merry and Pippin are captured by the Orcs at the start of the film, and Pippin is seen in handcuffs. But he doesnt have them anymore in the fight scene. And then they reappear on his wrists a few moments later. Gladiator (1999) open image in gallery ( Shutterstock ) Ridley Scotts epic film took place many centuries before fuel-powered vehicles. But during the Battle of Carthage, a gas canister can be seen on the back of a chariot when it flips over. The Dark Knight Rises (2012) open image in gallery ( Shutterstock ) There is a mix up over whether it is day or night at the beginning of the stock market heist scene in Christopher Nolans film. It is clearly daylight, but suddenly, after the police chase, its pitch black. Titanic (1997) open image in gallery ( Shutterstock ) When Jack (Leonardi DiCaprio) is painting a naked Rose (Kate Winslet) and tells her to go over by the bed, and then says he means the couch, it was DiCaprio flubbing his lines. But James Cameron kept it in the film because it was funny. Jurassic World (2015) open image in gallery ( Shutterstock ) The blockbuster featured about 33 mistakes, including a scene in which lead actor Chris Pratt talks to co-star Bryce Dallas Howard without his mouth moving. In another scene, a phones broken screen suddenly appears fixed. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Christopher Nolan is facing calls to halt production of his new Matt Damon-led epic, The Odyssey, in the Moroccan-occupied Western Sahara. The Oscar-winning British filmmaker and the films stars, Damon and Zendaya, were spotted July 17 arriving in the city of Dakhla, according to the Western Sahara International Film Festival (FiSahara). The Independent has learned that the film shot for four days in the region and left before FiSaharas press release asking for production to be halted in the Western Sahara was issued. Dakhla is a part of the disputed territory of Western Sahara, and is deemed the capital of the claimed Moroccan administrative region Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab. While pro-regime media celebrated their arrival in Moroccos southern provinces, the FiSahara clarified in a statement that Western Sahara is classified as a non-self-governing territory by the United Nations, is under Moroccan occupation, and has yet to complete decolonization. open image in gallery Christopher Nolan's next epic, 'The Odyssey, is scheduled to release July 17, 2026 ( Getty ) Dakhla is not just a beautiful place with cinematic sand dunes. First and foremost, it is an occupied and militarized city whose Indigenous Sahrawi population is subjected to brutal repression by the Moroccan occupation forces, said the festival, which takes place in Sahrawi refugee camps in Algeria. By filming part of The Odyssey in an occupied territory classified as a journalistic desert by Reporters Without Borders, Nolan and his team, perhaps unknowingly and unwittingly, are contributing to Moroccos repression of the Sahrawi people and to the Moroccan regimes efforts to normalize its occupation of Western Sahara, added FiSaharas executive director, Maria Carrion. Were sure that if they understood the full implications of filming a high-profile movie in a territory whose Indigenous peoples are unable to make their own films about their stories under occupation, Nolan and his team would be horrified. The Independent has contacted Nolan and Universal for comment. open image in gallery Matt Damon leads The Odyssey as Greek hero Odysseus ( Universal ) The festival claimed Morocco only allows entry into occupied Western Sahara to those who fit its strategy of selling its occupation to the outside world. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. High-profile visitors like Nolan and his team who help Morocco sell the narrative that Western Sahara is part of Morocco and that the Sahrawis are content to live under its rule are given the red carpet treatment, it said. But ask organizations like Amnesty International, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, or the hundreds of journalists and observers who have been barred or deported from the territory, and they will tell a different story. Nolan has already filmed parts of The Odyssey in Morocco, Greece, and Italy. The movie, an adaptation of Homers Greek poem, stars Damon as Greek hero Odysseus, who embarks on a 10-year journey home following the end of the Trojan War. Zendaya, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Lupita Nyongo, Charlize Theron, and Robert Pattinson also star in the highly anticipated film. The Odyssey releases in theaters July 17, 2026. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Jamie Lee Curtis says she is preparing to retire from acting because she saw how Hollywood rejected her parents after they reached a certain age. In an interview with The Guardian, Curtis talked about how hard it was watching her parents, the late actors Janet Leigh and Tony Curtis, struggle in Hollywood as they aged. I witnessed my parents lose the very thing that gave them their fame and their life and their livelihood, when the industry rejected them at a certain age. I watched them reach incredible success and then have it slowly erode to where it was gone. And thats very painful, she said. Curtis, who won an Oscar in 2023 for her role in Everything Everywhere All at Once, said she had been preparing to leave for a while. I have been self-retiring for 30 years. I have been prepping to get out so that I dont have to suffer the same as my family did. I want to leave the party before Im no longer invited. In the same interview, The Bear actor likened what she called the plastic industrys disfiguration of women to genocide. She posed for the interview with a set of enlarged red plastic lips as a prop she brought herself. Ive been very vocal about the genocide of a generation of women by the cosmeceutical industrial complex, who have disfigured themselves, she said. The wax lips really sends it home. On whether the word was appropriate, Curtis said she believed it was. I have used that word for a long time and I use it specifically because its a strong word, she said. I believe that we have wiped out a generation or two of natural human [appearance]. The concept that you can alter the way you look through chemicals, surgical procedures, fillers theres a disfigurement of generations of predominantly women who are altering their appearances. Jamie Lee Curtis will next be seen in Freakier Friday ( Buena Vista Pictures Distribution ) Curtis will next be seen in Freakier Friday, sequel to the beloved 2003 classic Freaky Friday. The original starred Curtis and Lindsay Lohan as Tess and Anna, a mother and daughter forced to live each others lives after switching bodies. Asked why the sequel took so long, Curtis said it was intentional. Everybody Ive ever spoken to has asked, Will there be a Freaky Friday sequel? When I went all around the world for Halloween Ends in 2022, every stop, they asked, the actor told People. And the answer was Lindsay has to be old enough to have had a teenager. So then obviously Lindsay had this beautiful baby. She came and visited me, brought the baby. At this moment we started really seriously talking about it. Freakier Friday releases in theatres on 8 August. Get the inside track from Roisin O'Connor with our free weekly music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Grammy-winning artist Ciara has been granted citizenship in Benin, becoming one of the first prominent individuals to benefit from a new law in the West African nation that offers nationality to descendants of slaves. The acquisition took place at a ceremony in Cotonou on Saturday. This move is part of a wider initiative by Benin to attract the Black diaspora, acknowledge its historical involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, and boost tourism centred on sites of remembrance linked to slavery. By legally recognizing these children of Africa, Benin is healing a historical wound. It is an act of justice, but also one of belonging and hope, Justice Minister Yvon Detchenou said at the ceremony. Here's what to know about Benin's efforts to welcome slave descendants: open image in gallery Ciara is the first high-profile individual to benefit from the law, which was establish to acknowledge Benins involvement in the slave trade ( AP ) Benin's afro-descendant citizenship law In September, Benin passed a law granting citizenship to those who can trace their lineage to the slave trade. It is open to anyone above 18 who doesn't already hold other African citizenship and can provide proof that an ancestor was deported via the slave trade from anywhere in sub-Saharan Africa. Beninese authorities accept DNA tests, authenticated testimonies and family records. Last week, the government launched My Afro Origins, the digital platform that processes applications. While Benin is not the first country to grant citizenship to descendants of slaves, its citizenship law carries added significance, in part because of the role it played in the transatlantic slave trade. A national reckoning with its role in the slave trade. European merchants deported an estimated 1.5 million enslaved people from the Bight of Benin a region that includes present-day Benin, Togo and parts of Nigeria to the Americas. Beninese kings actively participated in capturing and selling slaves to Portuguese, French, and British merchants. The former kingdoms and the communities they raided still exist today as tribal networks. Benin has long been working to reconcile with its legacy of complicity. It has openly acknowledged its role in the slave trade, a stance not shared by many other African nations that participated. In the 1990s, it hosted an international conference to examine how and where slaves were sold. In 1999, then-President Mathieu Kerekou apologized to African Americans during a visit to a church in Baltimore. Memorial tourism Alongside this national reckoning, memorial tourism around the legacy of the slave trade has become a key approach of Benins government to attract afro-descendants. Memorial sites are mostly in Ouidah, one of Africas most active slave-trading ports in the 18th and 19th centuries. They include the Slave Route, which was the path marking slaves final journey to ships, and the Door of No Return, a haunting doorway that opens to the Atlantic Ocean where they left Africa, and their families, for the last time. Sinde Chekete, the head of Benins state-run tourism agency, said these sites give afro-descendants the opportunity to learn about and honor the struggles and resilience of their ancestors. It may inspire some people to say I want to return to Africa and choose Benin to understand this history," Chekete said. Following her citizenship ceremony, Ciara toured the historic city, where she walked the Slave Route to the Door of No Return. Between emotion, reflection, and heritage, I experienced a profound return to what truly matters, she said. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice OnlyFans star Bonnie Blue has likened herself to self-proclaimed misogynist Andrew Tate, remarking that she and the 38-year-old are two of the most misunderstood people out there. The 26-year-old adult content creator, real name Tia Billinger, has drummed up controversy by sleeping with barely legal men. She claims those who disapprove of her are fat women who stay at home. Meanwhile, former kickboxer and social media influencer Tate is currently facing multiple charges for rape and human trafficking in the UK, which he has denied. In Victoria Silvers Channel 4 documentary 1,000 Men and Me: The Bonnie Blue Story, Blue can be seen packing her suitcase to fly to Romania to be interviewed alongside Tate. Hes probably just as controversial as I am, Blue said of the influencer, whose content has been linked to the rise of the manosphere and subsequent instances of violence against women and girls. Whether people love him or hate him, hes a marketing genius, Blue said. Hes been labelled multiple things by the media and so have I. Were probably the two most misunderstood people out there. Blue has made over 1m a month on OnlyFans through a series of extreme videos, which show her being passed around by groups of men in balaclavas. Bonnie Blue has said that she and Andrew Tate are the two 'most misunderstood people out there' ( Instagram/@bonnie_blue_xoxo/Getty ) In a two-star review, The Independents Olivia Petter dubbed The Bonnie Blue Story sad, uncomfortable and prurient viewing. She wrote that the content creator urges barely legal or barely breathing men to have sex with her, often at the expense of their wives and girlfriends, who Blue happily lambasts as sexually inferior. Of Blues demeanour, she added: As soon as she removes the camera, her face falls, almost accidentally slipping into an expression thats somewhere between exasperation and boredom. 1,000 Men and Me: The Bonnie Blue Story airs on Channel 4 at 10pm on Tuesday 29 July. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Former Superman actor and loyal Donald Trump supporter Dean Cain has named which A-list actor he hopes will don the iconic blue bodysuit next. Cain, 58, who is of Japanese descent, led the Nineties TV series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman as the Man of Steel, opposite Teri Hatcher as Lois Lane. While he still remains the only non-white actor to portray the DC superhero, Cain expressed his hope that Creed star Michael B. Jordan is next, in a new, wide-ranging interview with Variety. The Black Panther actor has all the qualities of Superman that humility, that kindness, that openness, that earnestness, Cain said. Should his wishes come true, it wouldnt come as a complete surprise. Jordan has long been rumored to be developing a limited series based around a Black incarnation of Superman. Superman actor Dean Cain labeled President Donald Trump 'most empathetic' and 'generous' person ( Getty ) The actor-turned frequent Fox News guests progressive take on Supermans future appears in direct contrast with his own conservative political views. During the 2016, 2020, and 2024 presidential elections, he proudly endorsed Trump. I love President Trump, Cain told Variety, revealing that the two have been friends forever. Per the outlet, the two first met in 2009 at a Miss Universe pageant Cain judged alongside the late Vogue editor-at-large Andre Leon Talley. Trump is actually one of the most empathetic, wonderful, generous people youll ever meet, Cain declared to Variety. Addressing James Gunns new Superman, a movie Fox News has slammed as superwoke due to its pro-immigrant themes, Cain took a different approach. Seeing Krypto in the trailer gave me goose bumps, he said. He saves a squirrel. He saves a little girl. I respect that. Cain shot to fame with his portrayal of Superman in the four-season TV series, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, which aired from 1993 to 1997. He recalled that at the time, his friend had warned him that once he put on the cape, for the rest of his life, people are going to call you Superman. I couldnt fathom that being the case at the time, but it changed my life insanely, he reflected. Cain later returned to the Superman universe in the six-season CW show Supergirl. He starred as Dr. Jeremiah Danvers, the adoptive father of Supermans cousin Supergirl/Kara Danvers (Melissa Benoist). Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Cosby Show star Keshia Knight Pulliam has paid tribute to her onscreen brother Malcolm-Jamal Warner following his untimely death. Warner drowned during a family holiday while swimming in the Caribbean off Costa Rica on Sunday, 20 July. He was 54. The actor was best known for his role as Theodore, the only son in The Cosby Shows Huxtable family. Pulliam played his youngest sister, Rudy. Sharing a video of Warner playing the bass guitar to Instagram on Sunday (27 July), Pulliam said: A week ago I lost my big brother but I gained an angel. I love you I miss you. Referencing the other Huxtable children, Sondra (Sabrina Le Beauf), Denise (Lisa Bonet), and Vanessa (Tempestt Bledsoe), Pulliam added: We got our girls. Pulliam is the latest Cosby Show star to pay tribute to Warner following the news of his death. Co-stars including Bill Cosby, Geoffrey Owens, and Raven-Symone have issued statements over the past week. Cosby told CBS News that he and his onscreen wife Phylicia Rashad were embracing each other over the phone after learning of Warners death. Malcolm-Jamal Warner ( Getty ) He was never afraid to go to his room and study. He knew his lines and that he was quite comfortable even with the growing pains of being a teenager, the star said of Warner. Meanwhile Owens, who played Warners brother-in-law Elvin Tibideaux, said in a statement to Deadline: Malcolm was a lovely man; a sweet and sensitive soul. I respected him for many reasons, including the fact that he genuinely loved the act of creation. He had the mind of an actor and the heart of a musician. He was generous, too. I did a theatre project long ago and asked him to participate, and he was there for me. My heart goes out to his family. Warner was on holiday with his family at the time of his death. The actor was swimming with a friend when a current pulled him further out to sea, after which he was unable to swim back to shore. The actor starred in The Cosby Show from 1984 to 1992, and went on to lead the sitcom Malcolm & Eddie with comedian Eddie Griffin from 1996 to 2000. More recently, he appeared in Sons of Anarchy, The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story, and Netflixs The Resident. Warner is survived by his wife, who he married in 2017, and their eight-year-old daughter. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Lisa Faulkner has thanked her fans for support after a MasterChef scandal saw her husband John Torode get sacked from the show. The actor, who met Torode on the celebrity version of the BBC cookery series, addressed the lovely comments shed received after the chef was dropped for allegedly using an extremely offensive racist term. Hi there, I just wanted to check in and say hello and Im here, Faulkner 53, said in an Instagram video on Monday (28 July). Just thank you for all your really lovely comments because they really mean a lot, so thank you. Torode, who co-hosts John and Lisas Weekend Kitchen with Faulkner, had one allegation upheld in the report conducted by MasterChefs production company Banijay. The TV chef, 60, said he has no recollection of using a racist term and also claimed BBC bosses did not inform him of their decision ahead of time. He said he learnt of his firing while reading media reports online. The allegation emerged during a seven-month investigation into the show, which substantiated 45 claims of misconduct against his co-host Gregg Wallace, who has also been sacked. open image in gallery John Torode and Lisa Faulkner met in 2010 ( ITV ) I will watch fondly from afar as I now focus on the many other exciting projects that I have been working towards, Torode said after learning of his sacking. My tummy will be grateful for a rest after 20 years of eating, but what a joy it has been. Life is ever changing and ever moving and sometimes personal happiness and fulfilment lay elsewhere. Thank you for the many years of MasterChef. Former EastEnders star Faulkner first met Torode when she won the fifth series of Celebrity MasterChef in 2010. The couple remained friends and went on to marry in 2019. open image in gallery Lisa Faulkner thanked fans in wake of John Torodes MasterChef sacking ( Instagram ) The pair have children from different relationships. Torode has two adult kids, Casper and Marselle, from one former relationship and also Lou, 18, and Jonah, 20, from his marriage to Jessica Torode, whom he divorced in 2014. Meanwhile, Faulkner adopted daughter Billie, 16, with her ex Chris Coghill in 2006. Wallace, Torodes MasterChef co-host of 20 years, has also been sacked from the show following the Banijay investigation. Wallace said he is deeply sorry for any distress caused by the findings and that he never set out to harm or humiliate anyone with his behaviour. The presenter faced multiple accusations, including claims that he made inappropriate sexual jokes, asked for the phone numbers of female production staff, and behaved unprofessionally around female colleagues on set. The report noted that during the course of the investigation, which was over a seven-month period, Wallace was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, and said that the findings should be viewed in the context of his neurodiversity. In his statement, Wallace, 60, added: Im relieved that the Banijay report fully recognises that my behaviour changed profoundly in 2018. Some of my humour and language missed the mark. I never set out to harm or humiliate. I always tried to bring warmth and support to MasterChef, on screen and off. open image in gallery Gregg Wallace and John Torode have been sacked as MasterChef hosts ( BBC ) After nearly 20 years on the show, I now see that certain patterns, shaped by traits Ive only recently begun to understand, may have been misread. I also accept that more could have been done, by others and by myself, to address concerns earlier. A late autism diagnosis has helped me understand how I communicate and how Im perceived. Im still learning. Wallace praised the shows production company, Banijay, saying they had given me great support, and I thank them. However, he criticised the BBC for exposing him to trial by media fuelled by rumour and clickbait. A statement from Wallaces lawyers last November, when reports first surfaced, said that it is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature. The relationship between Torode and Wallace, who have both presented the cooking programme since 2005, has always been mired in complication and on Saturday (19 July), it was claimed by a source who worked on the show that the pair were never friends. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Everyone has sex; just some of us film it, is the phrase Bonnie Blue chooses to introduce her Channel 4 documentary. Its a suitably glib start to the hour-long film, 1,000 Men and Me: The Bonnie Blue Story, which charts the controversial OnlyFans stars rise to global infamy. Aged 26, Blue, whose real name is Tia Billinger, is best known for staging extreme sex stunts; in January, she claimed to have slept with 1,057 men in 12 hours, filming it all for her OnlyFans account, which has since been disabled after the platform banned her. Its hard to know where to begin with Blue, who earns upwards of 1.5m per month from her videos, which she now shares on Fansly, another subscription-based social platform. Perhaps with the sheer impossibility of her so-called 1,000-men challenge, which would amount to 41 seconds per man, without accounting for the time it takes to change between them. Then theres the footage itself, much of which features in the film, showing a fully naked Blue surrounded by penises penetrating her mouth and vagina. Or theres her litany of rage-bait TikTok videos, in which she urges barely legal or barely breathing men to have sex with her, often at the expense of their wives and girlfriends, who Blue happily lambasts as sexually inferior. Born and raised in the Derbyshire village of Draycott, Blue, according to the film, had a loving, normal childhood complete with dance competitions, a sister she performed with, and parents who were together. All of them are on her payroll. We meet her mother, Sarah, who gushes about how proud she is of her daughter: If you could earn 1m a month, youd get your bits out, she deadpans. Signs of any deep-rooted trauma that many speculate is Blues driving force in all this are noticeably absent here. Despite her attempts, filmmaker Victoria Silver (who has a small handful of credits to her name including naturism doc The Great British Skinny Dip) fails to get behind Blues ironically impenetrable public image. Questions about feminism are brushed off as an inconvenience (but this is what I enjoy), and Blue refuses to consider the implications her content might have on other women: Theyre not my target audience. Humour is used as a distraction tool, which provokes a few uncomfortable laughs in the press screening. For example, when Silver, who has a 15-year-old daughter, asks about the potential dangers of a TikTok video of Blue passing a barely legal girl around a group of men in balaclavas, Blue simply points out that everyone is clothed, adding: That couldve just been a birthday party. We never learn why Blue split from her husband, Ollie, whom she met aged 15 and claims to have officially separated from in November 2023; he features briefly in the first part of the documentary (presumably when they were still an item), which was filmed over the course of six months. Nor do we really learn why she actually does any of this: sure, theres the financial incentive. And as Blue will reiterate to anyone who asks, she really loves having sex. But beyond that, there truly seems to be no real angle. We do get a behind-the-scenes look at the 1,000-men challenge 1,600 condoms and 50 balaclavas were purchased, and she eats a doughnut midway through and there are a few strangely sad scenes of Blue telling us how few friends she has while playing puzzles with her live-in videographer and creative director, Josh, who used to work with children in care. Born and raised in a Derbyshire village, Bonnie Blue, whose real name is Tia Billinger, earns upwards of 1.5m per month from her videos ( Channel 4 ) With little new information gleaned and far too much time taken up by TikTok and Instagram clips of Blues that already exist online, the documentary feels like little more than a prurient exercise to capitalise on one womans infamy. Although, maybe its simply impossible to ever truly know who Blue is. Her facade is maintained in person; I attended a Q&A between Blue and Silver that took place after the documentary was screened to journalists. She bats away serious questions with flippant jokes, disparagingly refers to her critics as fat women who stay at home while denying her own brazen misogyny, and blaming much of the outrage around her on the media. Theyre the ones who came up with the term barely legal, she claims. Perhaps one of the only moments of verisimilitude comes when we see Blue filming one of her TikTok clips before her 1,000-men challenge. She issues a sultry, doe-eyed invitation to her smartphone, but as soon as she removes the camera, her face falls, almost accidentally slipping into an expression thats somewhere between exasperation and boredom. Even Silver, who couldnt quite answer when pressed as to whether she found Blue to be a role model or part of the problem of our pornified culture, seems to have come away from making the film with little insights into who this woman really is. I suspect thats just how Blue likes it. 1,000 Men and Me: The Bonnie Blue Story airs on Channel 4 at 10pm on Tuesday 29 July Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice American Eagle is looking for a new social media manager amid the ongoing controversy over its latest campaign with Sydney Sweeney. The retailer shared a press release July 23 to announce its latest advertisements in collaboration with the 27-year-old actor. American Eagles advert includes a poster of Sweeney posing in a denim jacket and jeans, alongside the tagline: Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans. While the tagline appeared to be a pun about denim by changing the word genes to jeans it sparked immense criticism online, since the phrases good genes and great genes have historically been used in the language of eugenicists, who believe the human race can be improved genetically by selective breeding. Many people noted the apparent subtext of the campaign and criticized it for a lack of diversity. However, only two days after American Eagle launched the campaign, the company revealed it was hiring an associate manager on its social media team. The job posting was shared July 25 on its corporate site, as well as on LinkedIn. However, it is not clear if the social media team vacancy has anything to do with the immediate backlash over the new campaign. The Independent has contacted American Eagle for comment. open image in gallery American Eagle is looking for a social media manager who can identify creator and influencer campaigns ( Getty Images ) According to the job posting, the company is seeking candidates who have a sharp, creative perspective on social content and an understanding of what resonates with Gen-Z across platforms. Along with helping to maintain American Eagles cultural relevance, the associate manager is in charge of content creation and managing and planning the content calendar. They will also identify creator and influencer campaigns, ensuring our product is showcased in the most engaging, authentic, and aspirational way possible. open image in gallery American Eagle is hiring an associate manager on its social media team amid the Sydney Sweeney campaign backlash ( LinkedIn / American Eagle ) This person should have a deep understanding of social-first content, be energized by the fast pace of internet culture, and have a sharp eye for brand storytelling, especially through influencers and creators, a description of the role reads. Its not clear if the role requires interacting with angry customers and social media users, including those who continue to voice their concerns over the companys campaign with Sweeney. Advertising has always been and will always be about subtext and interpretation. if you're going to run a campaign that has a double meaning you better be clear on what those double meanings are. making a blonde white lady the sole face of your campaign and saying she has good genes against the backdrop of literally everything happening in the world is a choice, one person wrote on LinkedIn. And if nobody in the room could see that then the wrong people were in the room, someone responded. Sydney Sweeney is a great example of white supremacy being the only way a lot of people derive self-esteem, another wrote on X. She starred in two shows where she played the less hot friend to a dark-haired and brown skinned woman and tried to steal their man for validation in both shows. Meanwhile, a crucial part of the ad campaign has gone unnoticed. As part of the campaign, American Eagle is launching The Sydney Jean, a limited-run on the companys wide-legged jeans that were produced in collaboration with Sweeney, according to a press release. Theres also a butterfly motif on the back pocket of [The Sydney Jean that] represents domestic violence awareness, with 100 percent of proceeds from the jeans being donated to Crisis Text Line, a non-profit that offers confidential mental health support to anyone 24/7. However, many people on X have expressed that the important meaning of this campaign isnt clear in any of Sweeney's advertisements. If you watched those Sydney Sweeney American Eagle ads, youd never know they were fundraising for a domestic violence charity, one tweeted. That Sydney [Sweeney] American Eagle ad was supposed to be about raising awareness for domestic violence, and that's the approach they chose, another wrote. A SQX-1 Y10 commercial carrier rocket carrying a satellite blasts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China on July 29, 2025. The rocket blasted off at 12:11 p.m. (Beijing Time) from the launch site, sending a satellite into its planned orbit. (Photo by Wang Jiangbo/Xinhua) JIUQUAN, July 29 (Xinhua) -- China successfully launched the SQX-1 Y10 commercial carrier rocket into space from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China on Tuesday. The rocket blasted off at 12:11 p.m. (Beijing Time) from the launch site, sending a satellite into its planned orbit. A SQX-1 Y10 commercial carrier rocket carrying a satellite blasts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China on July 29, 2025. The rocket blasted off at 12:11 p.m. (Beijing Time) from the launch site, sending a satellite into its planned orbit. (Photo by Wang Jiangbo/Xinhua) A SQX-1 Y10 commercial carrier rocket carrying a satellite blasts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China on July 29, 2025. The rocket blasted off at 12:11 p.m. (Beijing Time) from the launch site, sending a satellite into its planned orbit. (Photo by Wang Jiangbo/Xinhua) A SQX-1 Y10 commercial carrier rocket carrying a satellite blasts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China on July 29, 2025. The rocket blasted off at 12:11 p.m. (Beijing Time) from the launch site, sending a satellite into its planned orbit. (Photo by Wang Jiangbo/Xinhua) A SQX-1 Y10 commercial carrier rocket carrying a satellite blasts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China on July 29, 2025. The rocket blasted off at 12:11 p.m. (Beijing Time) from the launch site, sending a satellite into its planned orbit. (Photo by Wang Jiangbo/Xinhua) Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty have split after 13 years of marriage. The TV presenters, who have been married since 2012, announced the news on Tuesday. In a joint statement, they said: We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated. There is no other party involved. We will continue to be united as loving parents to our children and would therefore kindly ask for our family privacy to be respected. There will be no further comment. Before marrying Kielty, 54, This Morning presenter Deeley, 48, was married to businessman Mark Whelan for five years. They divorced in 2006. open image in gallery Patrick Kielty and Cat Deeley at the Film Is Great reception in Los Angeles ( PA ) Northern Irish comedian and presenter Kielty was in a high-profile relationship with Irish model Amanda Bryam for five years, separating in 2003. Deeley and Kielty had known each other for years before becoming a romantic item, hosting Fame Academy together for two seasons in 2002 and 2003. The couple wed in September 2012 at a ceremony in Rome. They have two sons together - one born in January 2016 and another June 2018. The couple lived in Los Angeles for more than a decade but more recently moved to north London. Deeley has hosted ITVs This Morning alongside Ben Shephard since early last year. open image in gallery Deeley has presented This Morning with Ben Shephard since last year ( ITV ) She started her career appearing on SM:TV Live with Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly from 1998 to 2002. After various hosting jobs in the UK, including taking over ITVs Stars In Their Eyes from Matthew Kelly, she moved to the states to host the US series So You Think You Can Dance from 2006, for which she received five Emmy nominations. Kielty is the host of RTE talk show The Late Late Show, having taken over from Ryan Tubridy in 2023. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Dennis Quaid is happiest when hes with his wife, Laura Savoie. The 71-year-old actor shared what he loves most about his 32-year-old spouse during an interview Monday with Fox News Digital. My life is paradise, he said. Every day is paradise with her. It really is. It's the closest relationship I've ever had with anybody, the Far from Heaven star added. What can I tell you? I don't know why God had waited so long to bring her, for her to come along, but [I'm] really glad he brought her into my life, or I walked into hers. Quaid acknowledged that even though his wife is 39 years his junior, he doesnt really pay attention to the age gap. I haven't spoken out about the age difference of my wife. Other people have. ButI really don't think about it," he confessed. "She's got so much going on that, you know, I just don't notice it. She's just, she's the light of my life." Dennis Quaid says he doesnt really think about the 39-year age gap between him and his wife ( Getty Images ) I wasnt looking for it, Quaid added. And she came along, and it's God put us together. Quad shared similar sentiments about the age gap in the past. There's 30-something years between us, and we just don't even notice it, he said during an appearance on the Today show in 2020. I've never related to someone in my life better than we do. He continued: We have such a great relationship and you know, love finds a way, wherever it is. You never know when love is coming, who it's gonna be, and you have no control over it. We just couldn't be happier. Quaid and Savoie tied the knot in a secret ceremony in June 2020 after a year of dating. The couple was initially meant to get married in a lavish Hawaiian wedding, but due to Covid-19 restrictions at the time, they chose to elope in California. Speaking to People after the wedding, The Parent Trap star revealed that the ceremony took place on a beach in Santa Barbara with just their pastor as a witness. It was beautiful, Quaid said. Just looking into her eyes, she was the most stunning bride. Savoie is Quaids fourth wife. The Substance star was previously married to P.J. Soles from 1978 to 1983 and Meg Ryan from 1991 to 2001. Ryan and Quaid welcomed their only child, Jack, together in 1992. From 2004 to 2018, Quaid was married to Kimberly Buffington, and they now share 17-year-old twins, Thomas and Zoe. Last month, the actor gave an update about Zoe, who was working as a camp counselor in Texas during the devastating flash floods. He told Fox News Digital at the time that Zoes camp is many miles north of Kerrville, Texas, which was hit by the catastrophic overflooding of the Guadalupe River. The Hill County of Texas is a magical place, especially for children going to camp there, the Texas native said. Its a cherished memory you carry with you all your life. My daughter was actually a few miles away from [Camp] Mystic, further north. Thankfully, their camp was OK. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Ghislaine Maxwell has offered to testify before Congress about the case of her accomplice Jeffrey Epstein but with major conditions, her attorneys said. Lawyers for the convicted sex trafficker and former girlfriend of the late convicted pedophile have sent her demands to the House Oversight Committee, CNN first reported. The former British socialite, who is appealing to the Supreme Court to overturn her conviction, has found herself back in the spotlight as the Epstein files scandal continues to plague the White House. Maxwell was subpoenaed to testify next month by House Oversight Chair James Comer. Her attorneys said in the letter Tuesday that she would cooperate if a fair and safe path forward can be established. Maxwells demands reportedly include a grant of formal immunity, and any interview would need to take place away from the correctional facility where she is currently serving her 20-year sentence. open image in gallery Jeffrey Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, currently serving a 20-year sentence, has offered to testify before Congress but with major conditions. ( Federal Bureau of Prisons ) If her demands are not met, Maxwell will have no choice but to invoke her Fifth Amendment rights, her attorneys wrote in the letter, seen by The Independent. The letter also said Maxwell would be willing to testify openly and honestly in public if she received clemency from President Donald Trump. Trump acknowledged Monday that he has the power to pardon Maxwell, but didnt say he would. Well, Im allowed to give her a pardon, but I nobodys approached me with it, the president said. Nobodys asked me about it. Of course, in the alternative, if Ms. Maxwell were to receive clemency, she would be willingand eagerto testify openly and honestly, in public, before Congress in Washington, D.C., her attorneys said. She welcomes the opportunity to share the truth and to dispel the many misconceptions and misstatements that have plagued this case from the beginning. open image in gallery The former British socialite has found herself back in the spotlight as the Epstein files scandal continues to plague the White House. ( US Department of Justice ) Her other demands include receiving the committees questions in advance and any appearance before them take place after the resolution of her Supreme Court appeal. The idea of granting Maxwell immunity was swiftly rejected by the Oversight Committee. The Oversight Committee will respond to Ms. Maxwells attorney soon, but it will not consider granting congressional immunity for her testimony, a spokeswoman told CNN. It comes a day after Maxwell filed an appeal with the Supreme Court in the hope of overturning her conviction of sexually abusing and grooming underage girls and young women for years with Epstein. Maxwell argues that she was unlawfully prosecuted and last week met with a senior Justice Department officials to answer questions about the case. Her lawyer says Maxwell answered questions about about 100 different people with potential ties to the Epstein ring. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Alivea Goncalves revealed she was bracing to be arrested as she addressed the man who fatally stabbed four University of Idaho students, including her younger sister, Kaylee Goncalves. Bryan Kohberger, 30, was sentenced to life in prison last week after he pleaded guilty to murdering Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin in their off-campus home on November 13, 2022. Judge Steven Hippler handed Kohberger four consecutive life sentences without the chance of parole and a decade for burglary. At his sentencing, the victims loved ones had a chance to address the court and Kohberger. Alivea Goncalves used the opportunity to lay into her sisters killer, demanding he sit up straight as she labeled him a sociopath, psychopath, murderer in a speech that earned applause from others in the courtroom. The truth is, youre basic, Alivea Goncalves told Kohberger. Let me be very clear: Dont ever try to convince yourself you matter just because someone finally said your name out loud. I see through you. You want the truth? Heres the one youll hate the most: If you hadnt attacked them in their sleep, in the middle of the night, like a pedophile, Kaylee wouldve kicked your f***ing ass, she added. open image in gallery Alivea Goncalves called Bryan Kohberger a sociopath and psychopath as she ( AP ) Alivea Goncalves told ABC News she was prepared to be arrested that day. I'm not joking, I think that every single one of us were, she said in an interview that aired Monday. Man, was he mad, she added. That was obviously a big point of why I did what I did, to make him feel small. Kaylee Goncalvess parents also unleashed on Kohberger. Her mother, Kristi Goncalves, told Kohberger he is nothing, calling him the property of the state of Idaho and wishing him a life of misery. Steve Goncalves, her father, similarly told Kohberger that nobody cares about him. From this moment, we'll forget you, Steve Goncalves said. You tried to plant fear, you tried to divide us. You failed. You united everyone in their disgust for you. open image in gallery Steve Goncalves hugs his daughter, Alivea Goncalves, at Bryan Kohberger's sentencing hearing ( AP ) Alivea Goncalves said she researched Kohberger ahead of the speech, which she gave from memory to maintain eye contact with her sisters killer. I mean, I stalked the stalker, she told ABC News. I found everything that I could from him online from the beginning of time to now. It fueled me to know that I got you pegged. I had one shot at it, and I was going to make the most of it. She also revealed she cut some remarks from her speech after realizing Kohbergers mother and sister were in the courtroom. "I didn't anticipate his mother and sister being there," Alivea Goncalves said. "And I had specific lines that were directed towards his relationship with his mother and directed towards the shame that he has caused his family, and how the ultimate move of a coward is for him to sit behind bars while the rest of his family has to bear the real weight, the shame of what he's done." Judge Steven Hippler was emotional during the hearing and called the murders acts of unspeakable evil. Kohberger, who has rarely spoken in court, declined to give a statement at the sentencing and his motive remains unknown. "The more we struggle to seek explanation for the unexplainable, the more power and control we give to him," Hippler said. "In my view, the time has now come to end Mr. Kohbergers 15 minutes of fame." The Goncalves family previously condemned the plea deal that prosecutors offered Kohberger, which allowed him to admit to the crimes and avoid the death penalty. The trial was set to begin in August, just over a month after he accepted the deal. We are beyond furious at the State of Idaho, the family said in a June statement. They have failed us. Please give us some time. This was very unexpected. We appreciate all your love and support. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The father of slain NYPD officer Didarul Islam, who was killed in Mondays shooting at a Midtown Manhattan office building, suffered a stroke after learning the news of his sons death, according to a report. Muhammad Mainul Islam, the police officers cousin, told The New York Post that the bereaved father had the stroke after seeing his sons body. His father went last night to see him, Muhammad Mainul Islam said. When he heard the message he had a stroke, feeling bad. So he had a stroke so the hospital did not release him. The cousin also said that the 36-year-old deceased officers eight-months pregnant wife was taken to hospital by police Tuesday morning. The cop also leaves two young sons. They are all crying, Muhammad Mainul Islam continued. There is no brother only him. The family is really feeling a big problem. His wife had the doctors appointment. I heard one police officer from the precinct, she took [her] to the hospital. open image in gallery The father of slain NYPD officer Didarul Islam (left), who was killed in the shooting Monday, suffered a stroke after learning his son died, according to a report. ( NYPD/AP ) Further details were not known on the conditions of Islams father and wife. The Independent has contacted the NYPD for comment. Officer Islam was one of four people gunned down in Monday evenings shooting in the office building at 345 Park Avenue. Shane Tamura, 27, began spraying bullets in the lobby around 6:30 p.m., killing Islam, Blackstone executive Wesley LePatner, and a security guard who has not been identified. Tamura then took an elevator to the 33rd floor, where he killed another person. She has been identified by The Post as Julie Hyman, a 2020 graduate of Cornell University who worked as an associate at Rudin Management. Islam was off-duty from the NYPD and working a private security job in the building when he was killed, authorities said. open image in gallery Family and friends of Didarul Islam, who was shot and killed by a gunman Monday evening, watch his dignified transfer out of NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Hospital to the medical examiner's office, early Tuesday, July 29, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Angelina Katsanis) ( AP ) open image in gallery Islam was off-duty from the NYPD and working a private security job in the building when he was shot, authorities said. ( X/Eric Adams ) He put himself in harms way, he made the ultimate sacrifice shot in cold blood, wearing a uniform that stood for the promise that he made to this city, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. He died as he lived, a hero. Islam, an immigrant from Bangladesh, had served in the NYPDs 47th precinct in the Bronx for three and a half years, New York City Mayor Eric Adams said. Adams met with Islams family Monday, describing him as a hero, and we admire him for putting his life on the line. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A former Ohio police officer was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison on Monday after being convicted of murdering an unarmed Black man in December 2020. Andre Hill, 47, was holding a cellphone and keys when Adam Coy, who is white, shot him four times in a Columbus garage. The ex-cop, who is being treated for Hodgkin lymphoma, told the court during his sentencing hearing Monday he will appeal the verdict. I feel my actions were justified, he said. I reacted the same way I had in hundreds of training scenarios. I drew and fired my weapon to stop a threat, protect myself and my partner." open image in gallery Ex-Ohio police officer Adam Coy was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison Monday after being convicted of murdering an unarmed Black man in December 2020 ( AP ) Hill came out of the garage of a friends house holding up a cellphone in his left hand seconds before he was fatally shot, police body camera footage showed. His right hand was not visible. It took almost 10 minutes for officers to render aid. Coy said during his trial he thought Hill was holding a silver revolver and feared for his life. I thought I was going to die, he told jurors. It was only after he rolled over Hills body and saw the keys that he realized there was no gun, according to Coy. open image in gallery Andre Hill, 47, was holding a cellphone and keys when Adam Coy, who is white, shot him four times in a Columbus garage ( Shawna Barnett/GoFundMe ) I knew at that point I made a mistake. I was horrified, he said. Prosecutors argued Hill followed police orders and was never a threat to Coy. Hills sisters and ex-wife described him Monday as a gentle man who had never known a stranger. His grandchildren called him Big Daddy." Whether this man gets a life sentence, 15 years, 20 years, will not change the fact or bring him back, Hills daughter Karissa told the sentencing judge, per WBNS. Coy was fired after the shooting. He had a lengthy history of citizen complaints, although most were declared unfounded. Weeks later, the mayor forced out the police chief after a series of fatal police shootings of Black people in the district. Columbus later reached a $10 million settlement with Hills family, and the city passed a law requiring police to give immediate medical attention to injured suspects. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who had represented the Hill family, reacted to the sentencing on Monday, writing on X: My heart is with Andres family as they face a life without their beloved Andre. open image in gallery Protesters hold signs outside the Franklin County Common Pleas Courthouse after the arraignment of Coy in Columbus, Ohio, on February 5, 2021 ( Stephen Zenner/AFP via Getty Images ) Hills shooting came at a time of heightened scrutiny of police violence against Black Americans. Black Lives Matter protests, some of which turned violent, erupted across the country in the spring of 2020 when George Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, died in Minneapolis after a white police officer, Derek Chauvin, knelt on his neck. Chauvin was sentenced to 21 years in prison for Floyds death. Another death that fueled outrage was that of Breonna Taylor. The 26-year-old was shot to death by police in her Louisville, Kentucky, apartment during a botched raid in March 2020. open image in gallery Protesters and volunteers prepare an art installation for Breonna Taylor, who was killed by police in her home, by laying posters and flowers at the Big Four Lawn on June 5, 2021, in Louisville, Kentucky ( Jon Cherry/Getty Images ) Ex-Louisville police officer Brett Hankison, who was found guilty of violating Taylors civil rights after blindly shooting into her apartment, was sentenced to nearly three years in prison earlier this month. The Justice Department sought a one-day prison sentence, according to a memo seen by The Washington Post. None of Hankisons bullets hit Taylor. The Associated Press contributed to this report. DUSHANBE, July 29 (Xinhua) -- A total of 3.1 tonnes of narcotic substances were seized in Tajikistan in the first half of 2025, up 10.4 kilograms from the same period in 2024, the press service of the Drug Control Agency under the President of Tajikistan said on Tuesday. According to the agency, 54.4 percent of the drugs were detected and seized at the border with Afghanistan. The amount of seized psychotropic substances increased by 85 percent, reaching 155.5 kilograms, it said. During that period, 534 drug-related crimes were registered in the country, compared to 419 during the same period in 2024, it added. KABUL, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Afghan police have dismantled an eleven-member gang of thieves and recovered more than 100 stolen vehicles, the Ministry of Interior Affairs announced Monday. According to the statement, the gang was dismantled during a 10-day military operation by police on the outskirts of Kabul, and in the provinces of Balkh, Nangarhar, Laghman, and Herat. The arrested individuals confessed to committing armed robberies and theft, the ministry said. As part of its efforts to ensure peace, the Afghan interim government has vowed to crack down on criminals in the war-ravaged country. NEW DELHI, July 29 (Xinhua) -- At least five persons on a pilgrimage died and over 17 were injured when their vehicle met with a road accident in India's eastern state of Jharkhand on Tuesday, confirmed the local police. The road mishap occurred in Jharkhand's Deoghar district. The deceased were on a month-long annual pilgrimage called "Kanwar Yatra" during which they fetch Ganga river water from Haridwar area in northern hilly state of Uttarakhand and take it to their respective homes. Those undertaking the pilgrimage are referred to as "Kanwariyas." "A bus coming from Mohanpur carrying Kanwariyas collided with a truck transporting gas-cylinders. Five Kanwariyas have died in the incident. All the injured people have been taken to the district hospital for better treatment," Inspector General of Police (Dumka Zone) Shailendra Kumar Sinha told the media. The process of identification of the deceased was going on. If there were an award for attracting haters, former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews would be nominated each year the Meryl Streep of Spring Street. Andrews, formerly known as Dictator Dan to some, continues to live rent-free in critics heads. Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews was focused on the right thing. Credit: Joe Armao CBD can report that Andrews international influence continues unabated. First, there was a candidate for the 2024 Napoli elections who looked like him. And recently, Andrews was spotted living it up in New York. Now, eagle-eyed international readers have sent through pages of the UKs Private Eye magazine which show a phrase familiar to most Victorians is flourishing in Keir Starmers England. Back when Andrews was in charge, everything from signing a new Belt and Road deal with China, to banning fracking and locking down the community during COVID outbreaks was the right thing to do. It was a signature line for a dominant government. States are pleading with the federal government to crack down on the importation and sale of dangerously fast e-bikes and e-scooters, which are being illegally ridden on Australian roads and increasingly killing and injuring people. The Victorian and NSW transport ministers, Gabrielle Williams and John Graham, warned the Commonwealth that poor regulation at a national level is allowing a plethora of powerful and unroadworthy vehicles to hit the streets. A food delivery driver rides an e-bike. There is no suggestion this bike does not comply with regulations. Credit: Paul Rovere Industry groups have also thrown their support behind the call for strengthened national standards. In a letter to federal Assistant Treasurer Daniel Mulino last week, Williams and Graham said: We are seeking your support to strengthen Australias approach to the safety of personal mobility devices and e-bikes to ensure that devices imported, sold and used in Australia are safe and fit for purpose, specifically in relation to speed capability and battery safety standards. A WA father is being ordered not to interfere with his teenage sons chemotherapy for a rare cancer, with doctors saying the boy was weeks from death. His father says his son is being kidnapped by the state and forced to undergo treatment without his consent. The boy was removed from his familys home and taken into the care of the Department of Communities last week. He is now being treated for acute myeloid leukaemia, a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer, at Perth Childrens Hospital. The Family Court heard on Monday the boy was at extreme risk and his treatment amounted to an emergency with death expected within weeks without it. Western Australias year 9 students recorded some of the nations best results in this years NAPLAN tests, but year 3 students fell critically short. The Australian Curriculum and Standards Authority released the new data late on Tuesday evening, which showed nearly half of all year 3 students in WA did not meet proficiency standards in grammar and punctuation. To meet proficiency, students must score in the top two NAPLAN bands. For reading, nearly 38 per cent of WA year 3s did not meet proficiency standards recording the third-lowest scores nationally, only slightly ahead of Tasmania and in spelling, nearly 41 per cent fell into the developing or needs additional support bands. Australia will take its social media ban to New York to push world leaders to protect children online despite the Trump administrations defence of US tech companies and attacks on digital censorship. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed on Wednesday he would hold an event in New York in September to coincide with a United Nations meeting, after the government defied threats from YouTubes parent company to sue if the site was included in the ban. Wiggles management lobbied against the governments social media ban including YouTube, but were largely rejected. Credit: Marija Ercegovac Communications Minister Anika Wells confirmed the chief executive of childrens music superstars The Wiggles, Kate Chiodo, was brought in to advocate against barring children under 16 from logging in to the platform. For clarity, it was the black skivvies, Wiggles Inc, Wiggles management, not individual members of our cherished national icon the Wiggles, Wells said on Wednesday. In 2023, nearly a year after being charged with three counts of indecent assault, one count of sexual intercourse without consent, and one charge of common assault, Kiama MP Gareth Ward stunned the NSW political establishment by holding on to his seat at the state election. Now, after Ward was found guilty on Friday of serious sexual offences involving two young men, the community that decided to give the former Liberal minister the benefit of the doubt has declared he must resign. Kiama resident Tristan Lazare says MP Gareth Wards crimes have hurt people and left scars that will last a lifetime. Credit: Janie Barrett The court has made its decision and proven that hes guilty, retiree Tristan Lazare said on Tuesday. Hes hurt people. Those scars will last a lifetime. The 75-year-olds comments were echoed in more emphatic terms by teacher Alecia Zoccoli. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says no one in Gaza is starving: There is no policy of starvation in Gaza, and there is no starvation in Gaza. We enable humanitarian aid throughout the duration of the war to enter Gaza otherwise, there would be no Gazans. US President Donald Trump on Monday said he disagreed with Netanyahus claim of no starvation, noting the images emerging of emaciated people: Those children look very hungry. When aid arrives, trucks are quickly overrun by desperate people, the UN says. Credit: Bloomberg After international pressure, Israel at the weekend announced humanitarian pauses, airdrops and other measures meant to allow more aid to Palestinians in Gaza. But people there say little or nothing has changed on the ground. The UN has described it as a one-week scale-up of aid, and Israel has not said how long the latest measures will last. This aid, delivered in this way, is an insult to the Palestinian people, said Hasan Al-Zalaan, who was at the site of an airdrop as some fought over the supplies, and crushed cans of chickpeas littered the ground. But Albanese, who spoke with Starmer overnight, said Australia was not concerned by the timeframe for recognition. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared the major policy shift after France announced it would recognise Palestine. Credit: Getty Images What were looking [at] is the circumstances where recognition will advance the objective of the creation of two states, Albanese said at a press conference later on Wednesday morning. My entire political life, Ive said I support two states, the right of Israel to exist within secure borders and the right of Palestinians to have their legitimate aspirations for their own state realised. That is my objective. Not making a statement, not winning a political point, but achieving that. Albanese pointed to a separate statement that Wong co-signed on Wednesday with allies including Canada, France and New Zealand, demanding a ceasefire and reiterating an unwavering commitment to the vision of the two-state solution while condemning Hamas October 7 attacks. The nations said they had already recognised, have expressed or express the willingness or the positive consideration of our countries to recognise the State of Palestine, as an essential step towards the two-state solution, and invite all countries that have not done so to join this call. They also said Gaza should be unified with the West Bank under the governance of the Palestinian Authority, an idea that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly rejected. It came on the same day that a United Nations working group, which included the Arab League, released a seven-page plan to end the war and progress towards a two-state solution that did not involve Hamas, which Australia will be asked to vote on in September. Opposition foreign affairs spokeswoman Michaelia Cash said she was concerned the Albanese government would be willing to recognise a Palestinian state before the conclusion of a formal two-state process. The question of recognising Palestinian statehood should come at the end of the peace negotiation process, not at the start or during it, she said. This is a moment for international leaders to be applying maximum pressure on the listed terrorist organisation Hamas to immediately and unconditionally release all remaining hostages and disarm. Loading Starmer had previously pledged to recognise Palestine as part of a two-state solution alongside Israel, but he shifted policy after a special cabinet meeting on Monday to say the UK was prepared to act even if Israel did not agree. Ive always said we will recognise a Palestinian state as a contribution to a proper peace process, at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution, Starmer said. With that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act. Starmer condemned Hamas, a listed terrorist group in the UK as it is in Australia, and said peace in Gaza required the Palestinian militants to disarm. Netanyahu said Starmer was appeasing the terrorist group. Starmer rewards Hamass monstrous terrorism & punishes its victims, he posted on social media. The UN said reports indicated on Tuesday that 60,000 Gazans had now been killed since Hamas-led terror attacks in Israel sparked the war in October 2023. Netanyahu has been bluntly contradicted by other world leaders for claiming there was no starvation in Gaza, with US President Donald Trump saying children were starving. Trump did not back the UK argument but made no criticism of Starmer, saying it was OK that the UK was following France. It doesnt mean I have to agree, he told reporters on Air Force One. He repeated his concern, aired at a press conference with Starmer in Scotland the previous day, that children were starving. About 144 of the 193 member states of the UN recognise Palestine as a state, including Russia, China and India. Only a handful of the 27 European Union members do so. Publisher's Note from Marc Rauch and Bob Gordon; For many years Google and the Oil Industry have punished The Auto Channel for editorializing that the motivation for EPA regulations concerning Climate Change caused by Greenhouse Gases are anti-American and based on Big Oil Politics and Bribes, not on any real concern for our environment, this is proven by their lack of championing the only currently practical, proven alternative to polluting, expensive, poison Gasoline. As parents, grandparents and intelligent patriotic American citizens we also want Clean Air and healthy children, and to that end, for over 20 years The Auto Channel has been underwriting the promotion for the replacement for poisonous, expensive, economy and soldier killing Gasoline, with domestic, available, clean, renewable Ethanol, at the least until a better mobility fuel may appear in the future (if ever). Marc and I have never understood how the EPA, the supposed guardians of America's environment could get away with their insidious continuation of actions and promotion of their doomsday "Anti-Greenhouse Gas" rhetoric by not mandating use of Ethanol Fuel the only available, practical option that will eliminate harmful vehicle tailpipe emissions. How has the EPA not ever been truthful about the option for an actual, easy to accomplish, replacement of Gasoline by Ethanol? The easy to implement solution to eliminate: Bad Air, Economic Harm and the need to heinously invest America's Treasures (Human and Monetary) on the latest "Protect Access To Oil Wars". Today's EPA announcement from Administrator Zeldin comes as a breath of clean-air...thank you MAGA for Common Sense leaders that will eliminate government enforced "Woke Chicken Little Global Climate Change" regulations and requirements before its too late. EPA Releases Proposal to Rescind Obama-Era Endangerment Finding, Regulations that Paved the Way for Electric Vehicle Mandates If finalized, this proposal would undo the underpinning of $1 trillion in costly regulations, save more than $54 billion annually INDIANAPOLIS, IN - July 29, 2025: At an auto dealership in Indiana, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin released the agencys proposal to rescind the 2009 Endangerment Finding, which has been used to justify over $1 trillion in regulations, including the Biden-Harris Administrations electric vehicle (EV) mandate. If finalized, the proposal would repeal all resulting greenhouse gas emissions regulations for motor vehicles and engines, thereby reinstating consumer choice and giving Americans the ability to purchase a safe and affordable car for their family while decreasing the cost of living on all products that trucks deliver. Administrator Zeldin was joined by U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, Indiana Governor Mike Braun, Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, U.S. Representative Jim Baird (R-IN-04), Indiana Secretary of Energy and Natural Resources Suzanne Jaworowski, and the Indiana Motor Truck Association. Since the 2009 Endangerment Finding was issued, many have stated that the American people and auto manufacturing have suffered from significant uncertainties and massive costs related to general regulations of greenhouse gases from vehicles and trucks. Finally, EPA is proposing to provide much needed certainty and regulatory relief, so companies can plan appropriately, and the American people can have affordable choices when deciding to buy a car. With this proposal, the Trump EPA is proposing to end sixteen years of uncertainty for automakers and American consumers, said EPA Administrator Zeldin. In our work so far, many stakeholders have told me that the Obama and Biden EPAs twisted the law, ignored precedent, and warped science to achieve their preferred ends and stick American families with hundreds of billions of dollars in hidden taxes every single year. We heard loud and clear the concern that EPA's GHG emissions standards themselves, not carbon dioxide which the Finding never assessed independently, was the real threat to Americans livelihoods. If finalized, rescinding the Endangerment Finding and resulting regulations would end $1 trillion or more in hidden taxes on American businesses and families. Thanks to President Trumps leadership, America is returning to free and open dialogue around climate and energy policy - driving the focus back to following the data, said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. Todays announcement is a monumental step toward returning to commonsense policies that expand access to affordable, reliable, secure energy and improve quality of life for all Americans. The Obama-Biden EPA used regulations as a political tool and hurt American competitiveness without results to show for it. Today's announcement is a win for consumer choice, common sense, and American energy independence. President Trump, Secretary Wright, and Administrator Zeldin are returning the EPA to its proper role, and I'm proud they chose Indiana as the place to make this announcement because our state is proof we can protect our environment and support American jobs, said Governor Mike Braun. Over the last four years, conservative state attorneys general were the last line of defense in fighting back against the Biden administrations federal overreach and green new scam agenda, said Attorney General Todd Rokita. However, thanks to President Trump and patriots like Administrator Zeldin and Secretary Wright, we are now on the front lines helping to unleash American energy. We commend President Trump and EPA Administrator Zeldin for taking decisive action to rescind the disastrous GHG Phase 3 rule. This electric-truck mandate put the trucking industry on a path to economic ruin and would have crippled our supply chain, disrupted deliveries, and raised prices for American families and businesses. Moreover, it kicked innovation to the curb by discarding available technologies that can further drive down emissions at a fraction of the cost. For four decades, our industry has proven that we are committed to reducing emissions. The trucking industry supports cleaner, more efficient technologies, but we need policies rooted in real-world conditions. We thank the Trump Administration for returning us to a path of common sense, so that we can keep delivering for the American people as we continue to reduce our environmental impact, said American Trucking Association President and CEO Chris Spear. The Endangerment Finding is the legal prerequisite used by the Obama and Biden Administrations to regulate emissions from new motor vehicles and new motor vehicle engines. Absent this finding, EPA would lack statutory authority under Section 202(a) of the Clean Air Act (CAA) to prescribe standards for greenhouse gas emissions. This proposal, if finalized, is expected to save Americans $54 billion in costs annually through the repeal of all greenhouse gas standards, including the Biden EPAs electric vehicle mandate, under conservative economic forecasts. If finalized, this proposal would remove all greenhouse gas standards for light-, medium- and heavy-duty vehicles and heavy-duty engines, starting with EPAs first greenhouse gas set in 2010 for light-duty vehicles and those set in 2011 for medium-duty vehicles and heavy-duty vehicles and engineswhich includes off-cycle credits like the much hated start-stop feature on most new cars. EPAs proposal also cites updated scientific data that challenge the assumptions behind the 2009 Endangerment Finding. Cited data includes the updated studies and information in the Department of Energys 2025 Climate Work Group study that is concurrently being released for public comment. EPA will initiate a public comment period to solicit input. Further information on the public comment process and instructions for participation will be published in the Federal Register and on the EPA website How We Got Here Congress tasked EPA under Section 202(a) of the Clean Air Act with prescribing emission standards for new motor vehicles and engines when the Administrator determines that emissions of an air pollutant from any class of vehicles causes or contributes to air pollution that endangers public health or welfare. But the Obama Administration ignored Congress clear intent, slicing and dicing the language of the statute to make an endangerment finding totally separate from any actual rule setting standards for emissions from cars. In an unprecedented move, the Obama EPA found that carbon dioxide emissions emitted from automobiles in combination with five other gases, some of which vehicles dont even emit contributes some unspecified amount to climate change, which in turn creates some unspecified amount of endangerment to human health and welfare. These mental leaps were admittedly novel, but they were the only way the Obama-Biden Administration could access EPAs authority to regulate under Section 202(a). Likewise, the Obama EPA did not consider any aspect of the regulations that would flow from the Endangerment Finding. EPA subsequently relied on the Endangerment Finding to underpin seven vehicle regulations with an aggregate cost of more than $1 trillion. The Endangerment Finding has also played a significant role in EPAs justification of regulations of other sources beyond cars and trucks, resulting in additional costly burdens on American families and businesses. Much has changed since the 2009 Endangerment Finding was issued, including new scientific and technological developments that warrant review. Additionally, major Supreme Court decisions in the intervening years, including Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, West Virginia v. EPA, Michigan v. EPA, and Utility Air Regulatory Group v. EPA, have significantly clarified the scope of EPAs authority under the CAA. The decisions emphasized that major policy determinations must be made by Congress, not by administrative agencies. Background On the greatest and most consequential day of deregulation in the history of the United States in March 2025, Administrator Zeldin announced that the agency was kicking off a formal reconsideration of the 2009 Endangerment Finding in collaboration with the Office of Management and Budget and other relevant agencies in addition to reconsidering all of its prior regulations and actions that rely on the Endangerment Finding. Please visit the Endangerment Finding Reconsideration website to learn more. Administrator Zeldin also announced the agency would reconsider the Model Year 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles regulation and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles. Please visit the Termination of the EV Mandate website to learn more. These were announced in conjunction with a number of historic actions to advance President Trumps Day One executive orders and Power the Great American Comeback. While accomplishing EPAs core mission of protecting the environment, the agency is committed to fulfilling President Trumps promise to unleash American energy, lower costs for Americans, revitalize the American auto industry, restore the rule of law, and give power back to states to make their own decisions. On this page: Rule Summary Proposed Rule: Reconsideration of 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards On July 29, 2025, EPA proposed to rescind the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding. The Endangerment Finding is a prerequisite for regulating emissions from new motor vehicles and new motor vehicle engines. Absent this finding, EPA lacks statutory authority under Section 202 of the Clean Air Act to prescribe standards for GHG emissions. Therefore, EPA also proposed to remove GHG regulations for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty on-highway vehicles. As a result of these proposed changes, engine and vehicle manufacturers would no longer have any future obligations for the measurement, control, and reporting of GHG emissions for any highway engine and vehicle, including model years manufactured prior to this proposal. However, EPA intends to retain, without modification, regulations necessary for criteria pollutant and air toxic measurement and standards, Corporate Average Fuel Economy testing, and associated fuel economy labeling requirements. On July 11, the Inauguration Ceremony of Sierra Leone's Wild Aquatic Products Export to China was grandly held in Freetown. Ambassador Wang Qing, Deputy Speaker of Sierra Leone Conteh, and Minister of Fisheries Dugba attended and delivered speeches. Counselor Wang Peng of the Embassy in charge of economic and commercial affairs and several Sierra Leonean cabinet ministers also participated. Ambassador Wang Qing stated that as a specific measure to implement the "Action on promotion of trade prosperity" of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit, the export of Sierra Leone's wild aquatic products to China marks a new stage in China-Sierra Leone fishery cooperation. China will further expand opening-up, deepen cooperation, work with Africa to oppose all forms of unilateralism and protectionism, and promote inclusive and beneficial economic globalization. Deputy Speaker Conteh said that the export of Sierra Leone's high-quality aquatic products to China will increase export revenue and promote the upgrading of the fishery value chain. Minister Dugba thanked China for its support for Sierra Leone's fishery development, which has helped Sierra Leone's poverty reduction and sustainable economic and social development. MADRID, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Spain's Military Emergency Response Unit (UME) has been deployed to assist firefighters battling a rapidly spreading wildfire in the province of Avila, northwest of Madrid. The blaze broke out just before midnight on Monday near the municipality of Cuevas del Valle and quickly advanced toward the nearby village of Mombeltran, forcing the evacuation of 50 residents. Aircraft, helicopters, and ground crews are working to bring the flames under control, according to the regional government of Castilla y Leon. This region has seen similar devastation in the past. A wildfire 16 years ago burned 5,000 hectares and claimed two lives. Residents have been urged to stay indoors and follow official instructions. While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, authorities say strong winds fueled its rapid spread, and early signs point to possible arson. Castilla y Leon President Alfonso Fernandez Manueco took to social media to thank emergency crews and pledged to "provide all necessary resources to extinguish the fire as soon as possible." The Avila wildfire is among several major blazes currently affecting Spain. On Monday, a separate fire near Puertollano in central Spain temporarily halted high-speed rail service between Madrid and Andalusia after burning roughly 180 hectares. Meanwhile, on the island of Tenerife, about 70 residents were evacuated from Santiago del Teide as flames consumed 60 hectares of hillside. So far this year, wildfires have scorched approximately 37,000 hectares across Spain, according to the European Forest Fire Information System. A wet spring delayed the start of fire season but left behind dense undergrowth -- now dried out and highly flammable amid strong summer winds. CM Dr Mohan Yadav flags-off free Government hearse service; 148 vehicles to be deployed Staff Reporter : In a major step toward compassionate healthcare, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav today flagged off a fleet of free government hearse vehicles from his official residence in Bhopal. The initiative, under the Public Health and Family Welfare Department, aims to ensure that even the economically weaker sections of society can conduct the final journey of their loved ones with dignity.As part of the rollout, 148 hearse vehicles will be deployed across the state. Districts with government medical colleges will receive four vehicles each, while all other districts will receive two vehicles each for their respective district hospitals. This public service is intended to eliminate the financial burden on poor families who often struggle to arrange private transport for deceased relatives. The state government highlighted that the new service will make end-of-life care more accessible, respectful, and humane.Officials noted that the initiative is part of a larger push to expand equitable and inclusive healthcare services across Madhya Pradesh. The Chief Minister emphasized that every citizen deserves dignitynot just in life, but also in death. CM Sai alleges human trafficking, attempted conversion Staff Reporter AIPUR, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has issued a strong statement regarding the arrest of two nuns, saying the incident involves human trafficking and an attempt to convert three tribal women from Narayanpur. The Chief Ministers remarks come as the case created political controversy. Chief Minister Sai tweeted, three young women from Narayanpur were allegedly promised nursing training and jobs. A person from Narayanpur then handed them over to two nuns at Durg railway station, who were reportedly taking the women to Fatima Hospital in Agra. In this, an attempt was being made to convert by human trafficking through temptation, Chief Minister Sai stated. He further emphasized, This is a serious matter related to the safety of women. Investigation is still going on in this matter. The case is sub judice and the law will work according to itself. Reaffirming Chhattisgarhs commitment to peace and communal harmony, Chief Minister Sai added, Chhattisgarh is a peace-loving state where people of all religions and communities live in harmony. It is very unfortunate to give a political form to the issue related to the safety of our daughters of Bastar. The arrests have sparked a major political row, particularly after Rahul Gandhi publicly opposed the police action. The Chhattisgarh Police had arrested the two nuns from Kerala in Durg as they were en route from the station to Agra. Accompanying them were the three women from Narayanpur. The Bajrang Dal has alleged that the women were being pressured for religious conversion. Conversely, the Kerala government has strongly condemned the arrests, asserting that they were wrongful arrested. Kerala authorities maintain that all three women are adults and were traveling with the nuns to commence new jobs. The intervention of the Kerala Chief Minister has reportedly caused significant stir from Delhi to Chhattisgarh, with the Congress party seizing on the issue, pushing the matter into a highly politicized debate. Drug party probe: Blood reportof ex-Ministers son-in-lawconfirms consumption of liquor PUNE MEDICAL reports of former Maharashtra Minister Eknath Khadses son-in-law Pranjal Khewalkar and another person have confirmed the consumption of liquor at a drug party busted by the police the day before, an officer said on Monday. Khewalkars wife and NCP (SP) state unit president Rohini Khadse met a senior officer of the Pune Police on Monday. Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has confirmed to PTI of Rohini Khadses visit to the Police Commissionerate in the evening and meeting the case investigation officer, DCP (Crime) Nikhil Pingle. A senior police officer said medical reports of two accused, including Khewalkar, confirmed that they had consumed liquor. Pune polices Crime Branchraidedastudioapartmentlocatedin theupscaleKharadiareaataround 3:30 amonSunday,leading to the arrest of seven persons and seizure of suspectedcocaine,marijuana,hookahsetups, and bottles of liquor. Khewalkarandsixothersareinpolice custody till July 29. Earlier on Monday, Rohini Khadse stated on X that the medical report of her husband had not been received, even though themedia seemed tohave accessed it. When we requested the report from the police, we were informed that it would be submitted directly to the court. At the moment, we are seeing the report being shown on news channels, she claimed. LISBON, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Industries in northern Portugal are particularly vulnerable to the new 15 percent U.S. tariffs on European imports, set to take effect in August. Key sectors impacted include arms, wine, pharmaceuticals, and luxury goods, Portuguese daily newspaper Jornal de Noticias reported on Tuesday. The arms industry is the most exposed, with 71 percent of Portugal's 84 million euros (96.8 million U.S. dollars) arms exports in 2024 going to the United States, nearly all from the Browning factory in Viana do Castelo. Wine is another major concern. America is Portugal's second-largest wine export market and the fifth-largest for Douro region wines, including Port. In 2024, Douro exports to the U.S. market totaled 36 million euros. Over 500 producers in the Douro region recently protested in Peso da Regua, citing plummeting grape prices, rising costs, and contract cancellations, urging government intervention ahead of a potentially devastating harvest. The watch and jewelry sector is also bracing for impact. Joao Faria, head of the Portuguese Association of Jewelry and Watchmaking, warned that the duty hike from 5 percent to 15 percent on high-value items will have a serious effect. A 20,000-euro Rolex, for instance, will now incur 3,000 to 4,000 euros in duties instead of 1,000 euros. Textile and apparel firms are awaiting details on how competitors will be taxed. Mario Machado of the Portuguese Textile and Clothing Association called the deal "bad but necessary," crediting the European Commission for averting a wider trade war. (1 euro = 1.15 U.S. dollar) INTERNAL SECURITY EVEN as the Parliamentarians debate on Indias Operation Sindoor that dismantled terror infrastructure situated inside Pakistan, Union Home Minister Mr. Amit Shah has flagged a pressing issue of internal security which faces stiff challenges due to changing geopolitics in the neighbourhood. Mr. Shahs insistence for the State Police forces and Central security agencies to remain alert and ensure better coordination stems from the dangers terror sleeper cells, urban naxals, and cyber crooks pose to the country. To a large extent, India has managed to pin down naxalism in hitherto hotbeds and also swooped on terror modules in sensitive regions to avoid any major incident. Terrorist activities have also largely been confined to a few pockets in Jammu and Kashmir. Indias security and Intelligence agencies have managed a strict vigil on challenges within the country, but the changing dynamics in the neighbourhood, especially after the Pahalgam terrorist attack of April 22, call for a revised strategy to ensure that no untoward incident shakes the society. Mr. Shahs statement that geopolitics involving Indias neighbour can potentially trigger danger to internal security needs to be understood from the large spectrum of threats which the country will have deal with in the future. Indias growing economic heft and rising global stature has already attracted big attention from many non-state actors. There is a live threat to internal security not only through attacks or terror activities but also via fake narrative war and cyber attacks. The challenges are dynamic and require an equally robust response from all security agencies working in tandem with the Home Ministry. Fake narratives peddled through social media platforms has emerged as the biggest threat for internal security. The last few months have seen some disturbing incidents caused by fake posts on social media leading to riots and clashes. This is the new form of warfare that actors inimical to Indias rise have resorted to. The Union Home Minister has flagged similar threats as he called the security forces and agencies to adopt the motto of security, alertness and coordination. The cyber domain is a live threat for India as its security agencies ramp up their systems to fight it. They have managed to foil hundreds of cyber attacks on critical Government establishments and financial institutions so far. But it is a vibrant place where the cyber crooks keep evolving their strategies to attack systems. Last years cyber attack on two major banks in India had resulted in a big data theft. These are the challenges that form the domain of internal security. It will have to be fought with a reliable ecosystem for real-time data sharing. What the Operation Sindoor has showed the internal security agencies is the use of technology is set to be dominant by anti-India forces. The Indian Air Force was confronted with high-level digital systems as its attacks were tackled by Pakistan with the use of Chinese technology. The IAF was a step ahead of these systems to inflict tremendous damage on Pakistan. But the operation brought new lessons for the entire security ecosystem about the massive change in war tactics to be used in the future. Indias internal security also has to remain battle-ready to deal with such operations in the future as the first enemy strategy is always to attack critical systems running day-today life in a country. Heightened awareness about rapid changes in the world of technology is highly imperative for the forces managing internal security. It entails creation of specialised departments and recruitment of domain experts who can become a link to the security forces. For a rising India, keeping its home totally safe is a necessity. KC Overseas to hold USA Universities Education Fair on 31st Business Reporter : KC OVERSEAS Education will be organising the USA Universities Education Fair on July 31 for aspirants keen to apply for Spring/ Fall 2026 intakes. Aspirants can attend the event on July 31, at KC Overseas Education office situated at IT Park office from 11 am to 2 pm or KCs office Sadar office from 3 pm to 5 pm. Aspirants can meet and interact with delegates of 20+ top participating US universities and check their chance of getting a free profile evaluation done for a decision in Masters or Bachelors programme in the university of their choice. Participating US universities are Queens College, City University of New York; Northern Arizona University, Arizona; University of Arizona, Arizona; University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts (for MS), Montclair State University, New Jersey; San Jose State University, California; Governors State University, Illinois; Grand Valley State University, Michigan; NYIT School of Management; UC Riverside College of Business, California and many more. One on one interaction with university delegates will give a fair idea about the programmes, admission criteria, application timelines, information about scholarships and assistantships. Application fee waiver and details of GRE/GMAT/SAT waiver are the added advantages of attending this event. For further information, interested can call on (M: 9075009464, 7420905974). Monsoon Session House pays tributes to victims of Pahalgam attack; adjourned till today By Bhavana Aparajita Shukla Congress legislators enter Assembly building with Girgit (chameleon) to protest OBC reservation issue The first day of the Monsoon Session of the State Legislative Assembly commenced with on a stormy political scenario as Opposition Congress legislators staged a symbolic protest accusing the BJP-led government of reneging on its commitment to implement 27 per cent reservation for the Other Backward Classes (OBC). Holding placards and artificial Girgit (chameleon) in hands , the Congress MLAs gathered before the statue of Mahatma Gandhi within the Assembly premises, alleging that the Government was changing stands (colours) like a chameleon on the reservation issue. The protest unfolded against the backdrop of a controversial directive issued by the Assembly Secretariat under Standing Order 94(2), which bans all forms of sloganeering and symbolic demonstrations within the legislature complex. The circular, sent to MLAs on July 10, cited security concerns and restricted entry passes to a limited number of aides and drivers, prompting criticism from the Opposition. Congress MLAs condemned the move asserting that the Government was attempting to suppress dissent and keep both public representatives and the media at arms length from legislative proceedings. BJP MLA Umakant Sharma, meanwhile, took a dig at the Congress leadership, questioning the absence of former Chief Minister Kamal Nath from the House and attributing it to an internal factionalism within the Opposition ranks. Inside the House, the session began with tributes led by Speaker Narendra Singh Tomar, Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav and Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar. The Assembly paid homage to former legislators Raja Surendra Bahadur Singh, Raghunath Chaudhary, Shankar Lal Munnakhedi, and Sardar Sukhdev Singh, as well as former Union Minister Dr Girija Vyas, former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Rupani, film actor Manoj Kumar, and folk artist Ramsahay Pandey. Members also observed silence in memory of the victims of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam and the June 12 Air India crash in Ahmedabad. The session, scheduled to run until August 8, will feature ten sittings over twelve days. The Government is expected to table important key Bills including those related to commercial tax and higher education, alongside a Supplementary Budget. According to Assembly Principal Secretary A P Singh, the Secretariat has received 3,377 questions, 2,076 submitted online and 1,301 offline, reflecting increased digital engagement. Additionally, 226 call attention notices, 23 private member resolutions, 65 Zero Hour submissions, one Rule 139 notice, and one adjournment motion have been filed. As the session progresses, the battle lines are expected to sharpen over issues of governance, transparency and social justice with the OBC reservation debate likely to dominate proceedings. New India can go to any extentto uproot terror: Rajnath Singh NEW DELHI : DECISIVE action has replaced dossiers and the new India can go to any extent to uproot terrorism, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Monday while stating that Operation Sindoor was on pause as the Armed Forces had achieved the desired objectives. Initiating the special discussion on Indias strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terrorattackinPahalgamin theLok Sabha, Singh said the military action against Pakistan had sent a clear message to supporters of terrorism that India was committed todefenditsmotherland. Just as the debate started inthe Lok Sabha, security forces inJammu and Kashmir reportedthat three terrorists have beengunned down after a massivegunfight. Today, dossiers have beenreplaced by decisive action. Todays India thinks differentlyand acts differently. We believethat if the adversary uses terrorism as part of strategy and doesnot understand the language of peace, then standing firm andbeingdecisiveis the only option,Singh said. Rejecting US President Donald Trumps claims of mediating a ceasefire between IndiaandPakistan,theMinister added,OperationSindoorwas pausedas thearmed forceshad achieved the desired politicomilitary objectives and there wasnopressure toend theconflict with Pakistan. If Pakistan indulges in fresh misadventure, it will resume again, he added. Singh asserted that India now believes in taking decisive action as peace overtures have not yielded desirable results. The Defence Minister also made light of the Opposition attacks against the Governmenton thelossofmilitary assetsin the four-day war andurgedpoliticalrivals to ask the number of Pakistani aircraft downed by India. It is the Oppositions job to ask questions of the Government. Our Opposition members kept asking how many of our aircraft were shot down, but they never asked howmanyPakistaniplanesour forces had shot down, Singh said. If you want to ask questions, then askif any of our soldierswereharmedinthisoperation. The answer is no, none of our soldiers were harmed. Singh said Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor on the intervening night of May 6-7 to deliver justice to thosewholost theirloved onesin thePakistan-sponsored terroristattacksinPahalgamon April 22. To say or believe that Operation Sindoor was stopped under any pressure is baselessandcompletelyincorrect, he said. It was Pakistans Director GeneralofMilitaryOperations whorequestedhisIndiancounterpart to end the strikes, the Ministerasserted.Singhsstatement comes in the backdrop ofTrumpsclaimsofmediation to end the conflict between India and Pakistan. Noted author Shubhangi Bhadbhade passes away Staff Reporter : Noted author, literary figure Shubhangi Bhadbhade, passed away on Monday early morning. She was 80. There are 80 novels, two short story collections, and numerous essays and articles and biographical novels to her credit. Last rites will be performed at Ambazari ghat on Tuesday at 10 am. Bhadbhade founded the Padmagandha Pratishthan, and provided a platform to the writers from Vidarbha. This Pratishthan conducted several activities to encourage young women writers. It was the last appearance of Bhadbhade when she attended the launch of Dr Bharati Sudames translated novel Mi Aryaputra. Bhadbhade was a recipient of the Maharashtra Sahitya Sabhas poetry award, the Vidarbha Sahitya Sanghs Ekankika Writing Award, the Sahitya Academy Award, the Katha Award of Baroda, C Suman Deshpande Childrens Literature Award, Childrens Novel Award, and the Akhil Bharatiya Natya Parishad Mumbais Ekankinka Writing Award. The Maharashtra Government awarded her Utkrushta Vangmay Puraskar for her on Saransh Katha Sangrah. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep shock over the demise of Bhadbhade. While offering condolences on X, he said Shubhangitai Bhadbhade, was the author, veteran novelist, and a dedicated literary figure who provided a platform for budding writers through the Padmagandha Pratishthan. She contributed a lot to the field of literature. She authored biographies on eminent personalities such as Swatantryaveer Savarkar, the first Sarsanghachalak of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Dr Hedgewarji, Golwalkar Guruji, and Honble Prime Minister Narendra Modiji. With her demise, we have lost a talented literary mind. When she wrote Mrityunjayacha Mahayagnya, on Swatantryaveer Savarkar, I had requested her to convert it into an audio book, and the work was completed. She had asked me to write introductions for many of her books, which led to our continuous interactions. I offer my heartfelt condolences. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari too expressed deep shock over the demise of Shubhangi Bhadbhade. He said, with her death, a vacuum has been created which cant be filled. Her loss is irreparable. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule also offered condolences. He wrote, I was saddened to hear the news of the passing away of senior writer and Founder-President of Padmagandha Sahitya Pratishthan, Shubhangitai Bhadbhade. In March this year, Bhadbhade presented Prime Minister Narendra Modi a pre-release copy of her novel Rajyogi, written on him, during his visit to Madhav Netralaya. Pahalgam mastermindamong 3 killed inencounter in J&K SRINAGAR : IN A major breakthrough, the Armyseliteparacommandoson Monday shot dead the alleged mastermindof thePahalgam terror attack along with two of his associates in an encounter in a forest areaonSrinagarsoutskirts in Kashmir, officials said here. The officials said Sulieman alias Asif, who is believed to be the mastermind of the April 22 attack, was killed after the security forces launched a surprise operation following a technical signal indicating the use of a satellitephonethatwasalsoused by perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack. Theother terrorists killed in the Army action, codenamed OperationMahadev,havebeen identified as Jibran -- who was allegedly involved in the SonamargTunnelattacklastyear -- and Hamza Afghani. Asmany as26persons --mostly tourists -- were shot dead by terrorists at Baisaran meadows inPahalgam,whichpromptedthe Armed Forces to launch Op SindooronMay 7againstthe terror infrastructure in Pakistan. The terroristswerekilledin an exchange of fire during the cordon and searchin Mulnar village. One M4 carbine rifle, two AK rifles and other munitions were recovered from the site. Ataround1130hours,onepartycomprisingpersonnel from 24 Rashtriya Rifles and 4 Para unit had detected the group of three terrorists and neutralised them by springing a surprise on them, an official said. Speeding overtake bid leads to multi-vehicle collision on Gowari flyover, 4 injured Staff Reporter : A high-speed overtaking attempt led to a serious accident early Monday morning on the Shaheed Gowari Flyover, above Janta Square. A Volkswagen Polo, reportedly travelling at high speed, lost control while attempting to overtake another vehicle and collided head-on with a Bolero Pick-Up coming from the opposite direction. The Polo then struck a Tata Zest that was following the Bolero. The crash occurred around 5.45 am, when traffic was relatively thin. According to the Bajaj Nagar Police, the Polo (MH-46/AM-6447) was heading from Sitabuldi towards Rahate Colony when the driver attempted a risky overtake. The vehicle first hit the Bolero Pick-Up, which was coming from Rahate Colony Square towards Zero Mile, and then rammed into the Tata Zest trailing behind. The impact caused serious injuries to the Polos occupants - Satnam Singh Manjeet Singh Rai (27) and Pawan Ratan Gajbhiye (24), both residents of Nari Road, Nagpur. They were rushed to Government Medical College and Hospital, where their condition remains critical. Akshay Jugand Dhurwe (23), who was driving the Bolero Pick-Up (MH-28/G-4439), is a resident of Musni, Bhardagadh, Rampur, Junnardev in Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh. He sustained minor injuries in the accident. The driver of the Tata Zest (MH-40/BG-4931), Pintu Purushottam Dadhe (36), a resident of Maharshi Dayanand Nagar, Binaki Nagar, Vaishali Nagar, also suffered minor injuries and was treated and discharged. Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that the Polo was moving erratically and appeared to be switching lanes aggressively before the collision. A police officer stated that the Polo driver misjudged the available space while overtaking and was travelling too fast to regain control in time. The sudden loss of control led to the vehicle crashing into the oncoming Bolero Pick-Up and then the Tata Zest behind it. The accident caused a temporary disruption in traffic on the flyover. Bajaj Nagar Police, led by Senior PI Ajay Mankar, quickly reached the spot, cleared the damaged vehicles, and ensured that the injured were taken to the hospital. The wrecked cars were later taken to the police station, and an offence has been registered against the driver of the Polo. Authorities are now reviewing CCTV footage from the flyover to determine the exact sequence of events. TB drug delivery at doorstep: Pvt patients to receive free medication Staff Reporter : In a ground-breaking move, the Health Department of Madhya Pradesh is going to launch a first-of-its-kind initiative to deliver free anti-TB medication directly to the homes of tuberculosis patients being treated by private doctors. Rolled out under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), the initiative aims to close long-standing gaps in TB care and marks a major step toward integrating the private healthcare sector into the states TB control strategy. For the first time, patients undergoing treatment in the private sector, who constitute a significant portion of TB cases, will now receive Government-supplied anti-TB drugs at their doorstep, entirely free of cost. The program includes prescription verification, drug pickup from government medical warehouses, and monthly home delivery. Patients will also return used drug strips to enable treatment adherence monitoring, a practice long followed in the public sector under Directly Observed Therapy (DOT). To ensure smooth implementation, the Health Department is hiring an external agency, and tenders have already been invited to manage logistics, doorstep delivery and patient follow-up services. Officials say this outsourcing will help streamline operations, ensure last-mile reach, and reduce treatment dropouts. This appears to be a significant development, said Dr Atul Kharate, former State TB Officer of Madhya Pradesh. Patients receiving TB treatment in the private sector have often had limited access to structured support. If implemented well, this initiative could help address some of those long-standing challenges. Dr Kharate added that many of the necessary elements, like diagnostic facilities, medicines, and monitoring systems, already exist within the public health infrastructure. The key issue has often been in making these available to patients under private care. This program seems to aim at improving that linkage, he noted. Previously, private-sector TB patients were often burdened with buying their own medication, leading to poor adherence, high out-of-pocket expenses, and an increased risk of drug-resistant TB. By extending public-sector support systems to private patients, this initiative promises to improve treatment outcomes across the board. The doorstep delivery model is part of a broader reform package that also includes real-time tracking of sputum samples, geo-mapped contact tracing, and expanded access to Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment (TPT) for at-risk contacts. These interventions reflect a modern, tech-enabled, and patient-centered approach to TB care. With over 26 lakh TB cases reported annually in India, including nearly 1.8 lakh cases from Madhya Pradesh alone, and a significant number treated in the private sector, the states new initiative could serve as a model for improving access and support across different healthcare settings. Were lured of free nursing, salary: Tribal girls Staff Reporter Durg Bajrang Dal complaint triggered July 25 arrest; religious conversion angle under separate probe Arrested nuns allegedly promised Rs 8,000 salary and free nursing training, say tribal girls In a case that has spiralled into national controversy, the Durg unit of the Government Railway Police (GRP) has recorded statements of three tribal girls indicating that they were enticed with the promise of employment and cost-free nursing education. The developments come amid widespread political uproar over the arrest of two Keralite nuns and a tribal youth under human trafficking charges. The incident has drawn flak from across the political spectrum, with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and ensure due process. The girls have stated they were assured Rs 8,000 per month during training and told their education expenses would be fully covered, confirmed the Durg GRP Outpost In-charge. He added that Sukhman Mandavi, one of the three accused, had brought the girls by bus from Narayanpur and Orchha, paying for their travel expenses. The GRP officer said the investigation is being personally monitored by senior officials and that a charge-sheet will be filed upon conclusion of inquiry. The incident unfolded on July 25 at Durg Railway Station following a complaint filed by Bajrang Dal activists. The GRP apprehended Sisters Preeti Marry and Vandana Francis-members of the Assisi Sisters of Mary Immaculate (ASMI)-and Sukhman Mandavi while they were allegedly attempting to board a train with the three girls. All three were booked under relevant sections of human trafficking and are presently lodged at Central Jail, Durg. Allegations of attempted religious conversion, also raised by Bajrang Dal, are being investigated separately. Repeated calls by The Hitavada correspondent to Old Bhilai GRP Station In-charge Inspector Raj Kumar Borjha went unanswered. BUCHAREST, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Four people, including a child, died in a boat capsizing on the Danube Delta during a storm on Monday evening, according to Romanian authorities. The boat was carrying 14 people when it overturned at around 19:30 local time (1730 GMT) in the storm on the Sulina Canal in the delta area, said the Tulcea County Emergency Situations Inspectorate (ISU Tulcea). A yellow weather alert had been issued for the area at the time. The authorities launched a large-scale rescue operation involving firefighters, coast guards, ambulances and private boats nearby. Six of the people on board wearing life jackets managed to reach the shore on their own, while four others were found in cardiac arrest and later declared dead despite resuscitation efforts. Rescuers brought the rest to shore. All the survivors were hospitalized, said ISU Tulcea Spokesperson Daniel Nastase. An investigation is underway. Initial findings suggest the boat was overloaded and not certified for recreational use. The pilot, who survived, is under investigation for involuntary manslaughter, while the identities of the victims are yet to be confirmed, local media reported. The Danube Delta is a popular tourist attraction in the eastern European country, especially in the summer. STOCKHOLM, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The United States should work with China to continue to enhance consensus, reduce misunderstandings, strengthen cooperation, further deepen dialogue and consultations, and strive for more win-win outcomes, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng said here on Tuesday. A stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. economic and trade relationship serves not only the two countries' respective development goals but also contributes to global economic growth and stability, He said. He made the remarks during the new round of China-U.S. economic and trade talks in Stockholm from Monday to Tuesday with U.S. lead person Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. During the economic and trade talks, the two sides held candid, in-depth and constructive discussions on China-U.S. economic and trade relations, macroeconomic policies, and other trade and economic issues of mutual interest. The two sides also reviewed and affirmed the implementation of the consensus reached in the economic and trade talks in Geneva and the framework agreed on in London talks. Based on the meeting consensus, both sides will continue pushing for the continued extension by 90 days of the pause on 24 percent of reciprocal tariffs of the U.S. side, as well as counter measures of the Chinese side. The economic and trade teams of China and the United States should take the important consensus reached by the two heads of state during their phone call on June 5 as a guide, uphold the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, respect each other's concerns, further consolidate consensus and deepen mutual trust, the Chinese vice premier said. China's position on China-U.S. economic and trade affairs is consistent, and the essence of China-U.S. economic and trade relations lies in mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, He said. Noting that the two sides share extensive common interests and a broad space for cooperation in the economy and trade areas, He said that cooperation between China and the United States benefits both sides, while confrontation harms both sides. He urged both sides to continue adhering to the important consensus reached by the two heads of state during their phone talks, and make full use of the role of the China-U.S. economic and trade consultation mechanism. The U.S. side said that a stable U.S.-China economic and trade relationship is of great significance to the economies of both countries and the world at large. It added that the United States stands ready to work with the Chinese side to continue to resolve differences in the economic and trade field through the consultation mechanism, promote more outcomes from the talks, and further stabilize bilateral economic and trade relations. Images Sorry, there are no recent results for popular images. New Republic Capital LLC lifted its position in shares of McDonalds Corporation (NYSE:MCD Free Report) by 10.9% in the first quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 1,682 shares of the fast-food giants stock after purchasing an additional 165 shares during the period. New Republic Capital LLCs holdings in McDonalds were worth $525,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Mascagni Wealth Management Inc. acquired a new stake in McDonalds in the 4th quarter valued at $25,000. Pinney & Scofield Inc. acquired a new stake in McDonalds in the 4th quarter valued at $29,000. GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. acquired a new stake in McDonalds in the 4th quarter valued at $30,000. Abound Financial LLC acquired a new stake in McDonalds in the 1st quarter valued at $30,000. Finally, Copia Wealth Management acquired a new stake in McDonalds in the 4th quarter valued at $31,000. 70.29% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get McDonald's alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth MCD has been the subject of several recent research reports. Morgan Stanley increased their price target on McDonalds from $324.00 to $326.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, July 14th. Loop Capital downgraded McDonalds from a buy rating to a hold rating and lowered their price target for the company from $346.00 to $315.00 in a report on Friday, June 6th. KeyCorp lowered their target price on McDonalds from $340.00 to $325.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Monday, June 30th. Erste Group Bank downgraded McDonalds from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, May 24th. Finally, BTIG Research restated a neutral rating on shares of McDonalds in a research note on Tuesday, April 22nd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, thirteen have assigned a hold rating and fourteen have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $322.00. McDonalds Stock Up 1.3% Shares of NYSE MCD opened at $298.25 on Monday. The firms 50-day moving average price is $301.00 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $303.13. McDonalds Corporation has a 52-week low of $250.23 and a 52-week high of $326.32. The stock has a market capitalization of $213.26 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.32, a P/E/G ratio of 3.12 and a beta of 0.53. McDonalds (NYSE:MCD Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The fast-food giant reported $2.67 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $2.67. McDonalds had a net margin of 31.75% and a negative return on equity of 195.27%. The firm had revenue of $5.96 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.17 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $2.70 earnings per share. McDonaldss revenue was down 3.5% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts expect that McDonalds Corporation will post 12.25 earnings per share for the current year. McDonalds Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 16th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, September 2nd will be issued a $1.77 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, September 2nd. This represents a $7.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.37%. McDonaldss dividend payout ratio is currently 62.49%. Insider Transactions at McDonalds In other news, CMO Edith Morgan Flatley sold 1,000 shares of McDonalds stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, July 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $300.00, for a total transaction of $300,000.00. Following the sale, the chief marketing officer owned 8,858 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,657,400. The trade was a 10.14% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, insider Joseph M. Erlinger sold 939 shares of McDonalds stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, July 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $299.49, for a total value of $281,221.11. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 9,283 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,780,165.67. This trade represents a 9.19% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 3,817 shares of company stock worth $1,147,992 in the last three months. 0.25% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. McDonalds Company Profile (Free Report) McDonalds Corp. engages in the operation and franchising of restaurants. It operates through the following segments: U.S., International Operated Markets, and International Developmental Licensed Markets and Corporate. The U.S. segment focuses its operations on the United States. The International Operated Markets segment consists of operations and the franchising of restaurants in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and the U.K. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MCD? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for McDonalds Corporation (NYSE:MCD Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for McDonald's Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for McDonald's and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Algebris UK Ltd purchased a new position in shares of Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE:PB Free Report) in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm purchased 150,681 shares of the banks stock, valued at approximately $9,956,000. Prosperity Bancshares comprises about 1.8% of Algebris UK Ltds investment portfolio, making the stock its 21st largest holding. Algebris UK Ltd owned approximately 0.16% of Prosperity Bancshares as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Norges Bank acquired a new position in Prosperity Bancshares in the 4th quarter valued at $68,986,000. North Reef Capital Management LP acquired a new position in Prosperity Bancshares in the 4th quarter valued at $29,211,000. Vaughan Nelson Investment Management L.P. raised its holdings in Prosperity Bancshares by 25.1% in the 1st quarter. Vaughan Nelson Investment Management L.P. now owns 1,112,574 shares of the banks stock valued at $79,404,000 after acquiring an additional 223,355 shares in the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp raised its holdings in Prosperity Bancshares by 25.5% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 937,108 shares of the banks stock valued at $70,611,000 after acquiring an additional 190,449 shares in the last quarter. Finally, ExodusPoint Capital Management LP raised its holdings in Prosperity Bancshares by 462.3% in the 4th quarter. ExodusPoint Capital Management LP now owns 169,778 shares of the banks stock valued at $12,793,000 after acquiring an additional 139,585 shares in the last quarter. 80.69% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Prosperity Bancshares alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities analysts have weighed in on the company. Hovde Group dropped their price objective on Prosperity Bancshares from $85.00 to $83.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Thursday, July 24th. Jefferies Financial Group assumed coverage on Prosperity Bancshares in a research note on Wednesday, May 21st. They issued a buy rating and a $85.00 price target on the stock. Barclays decreased their price target on Prosperity Bancshares from $88.00 to $86.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, April 8th. Wall Street Zen upgraded Prosperity Bancshares from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, May 13th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada decreased their price target on Prosperity Bancshares from $85.00 to $78.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, April 24th. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Prosperity Bancshares presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $84.57. Insider Buying and Selling In other Prosperity Bancshares news, Director Ned S. Holmes sold 600 shares of Prosperity Bancshares stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $70.89, for a total transaction of $42,534.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 45,700 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,239,673. The trade was a 1.30% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 12,500 shares of company stock worth $885,446. 4.20% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Prosperity Bancshares Stock Down 0.3% Shares of PB stock opened at $67.52 on Tuesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $6.43 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.28, a P/E/G ratio of 1.01 and a beta of 0.68. Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. has a twelve month low of $61.57 and a twelve month high of $86.75. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $70.64 and its 200 day simple moving average is $72.06. Prosperity Bancshares (NYSE:PB Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 23rd. The bank reported $1.42 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.40 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $310.70 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $315.66 million. Prosperity Bancshares had a return on equity of 6.99% and a net margin of 29.37%. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.22 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. will post 5.83 EPS for the current fiscal year. Prosperity Bancshares Announces Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, October 1st. Shareholders of record on Monday, September 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.58 per share. This represents a $2.32 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.44%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, September 15th. Prosperity Bancsharess payout ratio is presently 42.18%. Prosperity Bancshares Profile (Free Report) Prosperity Bancshares, Inc operates as bank holding company for the Prosperity Bank that provides financial products and services to businesses and consumers. It accepts various deposit products, such as demand, savings, money market, and time accounts, as well as and certificates of deposit. The company also offers 1-4 family residential mortgage, commercial real estate and multifamily residential, commercial and industrial, agricultural, and non-real estate agricultural loans, as well as construction, land development, and other land loans; consumer loans, including automobile, recreational vehicle, boat, home improvement, personal, and deposit account collateralized loans; term loans and lines of credit; and consumer durables and home equity loans, as well as loans for working capital, business expansion, and purchase of equipment and machinery. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PB? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE:PB Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Prosperity Bancshares Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Prosperity Bancshares and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hurley Capital LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF (NYSEARCA:EWJ Free Report) in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund acquired 855 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $59,000. Several other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. First Command Advisory Services Inc. raised its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. First Command Advisory Services Inc. now owns 6,058,702 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $415,435,000 after acquiring an additional 41,296 shares in the last quarter. Bank of America Corp DE raised its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 7.9% during the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 4,567,225 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $306,461,000 after acquiring an additional 332,982 shares in the last quarter. Castlekeep Investment Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF during the 4th quarter worth approximately $101,421,000. Stifel Financial Corp raised its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 7.1% during the 4th quarter. Stifel Financial Corp now owns 1,176,530 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $78,946,000 after acquiring an additional 78,284 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Itau Unibanco Holding S.A. grew its position in iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 35.7% during the 4th quarter. Itau Unibanco Holding S.A. now owns 1,054,475 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $64,966,000 after purchasing an additional 277,167 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 64.60% of the companys stock. Get iShares MSCI Japan ETF alerts: iShares MSCI Japan ETF Trading Down 1.9% NYSEARCA:EWJ opened at $74.27 on Tuesday. The company has a market cap of $15.36 billion, a PE ratio of 14.63 and a beta of 0.68. iShares MSCI Japan ETF has a twelve month low of $59.84 and a twelve month high of $76.93. The companys 50 day moving average is $73.53 and its two-hundred day moving average is $70.52. About iShares MSCI Japan ETF iShares MSCI Japan ETF (the fund), formerly Ishares Msci Japan Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of publicly traded securities in the Japanese market, as measured by the MSCI Japan Index (the Index). Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EWJ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI Japan ETF (NYSEARCA:EWJ Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI Japan ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI Japan ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Brucke Financial Inc. raised its stake in American Express Company (NYSE:AXP Free Report) by 6.7% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 3,314 shares of the payment services companys stock after acquiring an additional 207 shares during the quarter. American Express makes up 0.8% of Brucke Financial Inc.s portfolio, making the stock its 29th biggest holding. Brucke Financial Inc.s holdings in American Express were worth $883,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. Other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. XTX Topco Ltd purchased a new position in American Express during the first quarter worth about $465,000. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise purchased a new stake in American Express in the first quarter valued at approximately $5,745,000. GSA Capital Partners LLP grew its holdings in American Express by 268.1% in the first quarter. GSA Capital Partners LLP now owns 3,699 shares of the payment services companys stock valued at $995,000 after purchasing an additional 2,694 shares during the period. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. grew its holdings in American Express by 122.8% in the first quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 13,818 shares of the payment services companys stock valued at $3,718,000 after purchasing an additional 7,616 shares during the period. Finally, Cozad Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings in American Express by 32.8% in the first quarter. Cozad Asset Management Inc. now owns 4,989 shares of the payment services companys stock valued at $1,342,000 after purchasing an additional 1,233 shares during the period. 84.33% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get American Express alerts: American Express Trading Down 0.3% Shares of AXP opened at $310.65 on Tuesday. The company has a market capitalization of $216.18 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.80, a P/E/G ratio of 1.65 and a beta of 1.25. American Express Company has a one year low of $220.43 and a one year high of $329.14. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.80, a quick ratio of 1.60 and a current ratio of 1.61. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $305.14 and a 200 day moving average price of $291.32. American Express Dividend Announcement American Express ( NYSE:AXP Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Friday, July 18th. The payment services company reported $4.08 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.86 by $0.22. American Express had a return on equity of 32.87% and a net margin of 14.78%. The company had revenue of $17.86 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.70 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $3.49 EPS. American Expresss quarterly revenue was up 9.3% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts forecast that American Express Company will post 15.33 EPS for the current fiscal year. The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 8th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, July 3rd will be issued a dividend of $0.82 per share. This represents a $3.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.06%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 3rd. American Expresss dividend payout ratio is presently 23.02%. Insider Buying and Selling In other American Express news, insider Howard Grosfield sold 9,450 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, May 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $275.50, for a total transaction of $2,603,475.00. Following the transaction, the insider owned 9,402 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,590,251. This trade represents a 50.13% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 0.20% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of equities research analysts recently issued reports on the stock. BTIG Research set a $277.00 target price on shares of American Express and gave the company a sell rating in a report on Monday, July 14th. Bank of America upgraded American Express from a neutral rating to a buy rating and dropped their price target for the stock from $325.00 to $274.00 in a research note on Friday, April 11th. Redburn Atlantic upgraded American Express from a sell rating to a neutral rating and dropped their price target for the stock from $270.00 to $255.00 in a research note on Wednesday, April 23rd. Truist Financial upped their price target on American Express from $335.00 to $340.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 9th. Finally, Citigroup restated a neutral rating and set a $327.00 price target (up from $300.00) on shares of American Express in a research note on Wednesday, July 2nd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, sixteen have issued a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, American Express has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $311.05. Get Our Latest Report on American Express About American Express (Free Report) American Express Company, together with its subsidiaries, operates as integrated payments company in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the Asia Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Latin America, Canada, the Caribbean, and Internationally. It operates through four segments: U.S. Consumer Services, Commercial Services, International Card Services, and Global Merchant and Network Services. See Also Receive News & Ratings for American Express Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for American Express and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. THE HAGUE, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The Dutch government has declared two Israeli ministers personae non gratae, citing deep dissatisfaction with Israel's handling of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and condemning the ongoing blockade and lack of adequate humanitarian access. In a letter to the Dutch Parliament released late Monday, Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp announced that Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich will be designated as personae non gratae and enter into the Schengen Information System as unwelcome individuals. "This decision follows their repeated incitement of settler violence against the Palestinian population, persistent advocacy for the expansion of illegal settlements, and public calls for ethnic cleansing in the Gaza Strip," Veldkamp wrote. The minister's letter paints a stark picture of the situation in Gaza, describing severe shortages of food, clean water, medicine and shelter. "The war in Gaza must stop," he said. "The population of Gaza is suffering extreme and persistent hardship as a result of the Israeli humanitarian blockade." He emphasized that as the occupying power, Israel has a legal obligation to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid. "Israel is not sufficiently fulfilling these obligations," he added. The Dutch government, he said, remains committed to addressing the crisis "through a combination of pressure and dialogue." Veldkamp said the Israeli ambassador will be summoned at the ministerial level "to strongly urge Israel once again that the Netherlands call on the Netanyahu government to change course." "The current situation is intolerable and indefensible. The summons will also be used to remind Israel to comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law," he wrote. Pfizer (NYSE:PFE Get Free Report) and Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Get Free Report) are both large-cap medical companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their valuation, earnings, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, dividends, profitability and risk. Institutional & Insider Ownership 68.4% of Pfizer shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 82.5% of Eli Lilly and Company shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.1% of Pfizer shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 0.1% of Eli Lilly and Company shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a stock is poised for long-term growth. Get Pfizer alerts: Analyst Recommendations This is a breakdown of recent ratings and target prices for Pfizer and Eli Lilly and Company, as provided by MarketBeat. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Pfizer 1 13 5 3 2.45 Eli Lilly and Company 1 3 16 0 2.75 Dividends Pfizer currently has a consensus target price of $28.55, suggesting a potential upside of 17.34%. Eli Lilly and Company has a consensus target price of $1,012.56, suggesting a potential upside of 25.35%. Given Eli Lilly and Companys stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe Eli Lilly and Company is more favorable than Pfizer. Pfizer pays an annual dividend of $1.72 per share and has a dividend yield of 7.1%. Eli Lilly and Company pays an annual dividend of $6.00 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.7%. Pfizer pays out 124.6% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Eli Lilly and Company pays out 48.8% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Pfizer has raised its dividend for 16 consecutive years and Eli Lilly and Company has raised its dividend for 11 consecutive years. Pfizer is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth. Earnings and Valuation This table compares Pfizer and Eli Lilly and Companys revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Pfizer $63.63 billion 2.17 $8.03 billion $1.38 17.63 Eli Lilly and Company $45.04 billion 17.00 $10.59 billion $12.29 65.73 Eli Lilly and Company has lower revenue, but higher earnings than Pfizer. Pfizer is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Eli Lilly and Company, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Volatility & Risk Pfizer has a beta of 0.58, suggesting that its stock price is 42% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Eli Lilly and Company has a beta of 0.4, suggesting that its stock price is 60% less volatile than the S&P 500. Profitability This table compares Pfizer and Eli Lilly and Companys net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Pfizer 12.62% 20.33% 8.53% Eli Lilly and Company 22.67% 85.51% 15.74% Summary Eli Lilly and Company beats Pfizer on 13 of the 18 factors compared between the two stocks. About Pfizer (Get Free Report) Pfizer Inc. discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands. It also provides medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, such as biosimilars for chronic immune and inflammatory diseases under the Xeljanz, Enbrel, Inflectra, Litfulo, Velsipity, and Cibinqo brands; amyloidosis, hemophilia, endocrine diseases, and sickle cell disease under the Vyndaqel family, Oxbryta, BeneFIX, Somavert, Ngenla, and Genotropin brands; sterile injectable and anti-infective medicines under the Sulperazon, Medrol, Zavicefta, Zithromax, and Panzyga brands; and biologics, small molecules, immunotherapies, and biosimilars under the Ibrance, Xtandi, Inlyta, Bosulif, Mektovi, Padcev, Adcetris, Talzenna, Tukysa, Elrexfio, Tivdak, Lorbrena, and Braftovi brands. In addition, the company involved in the contract manufacturing business. It serves wholesalers, retailers, hospitals, clinics, government agencies, pharmacies, individual provider offices, retail pharmacies, and integrated delivery systems. The company has collaboration agreements with Bristol-Myers Squibb Company; Astellas Pharma US, Inc.; Merck KGaA; and BioNTech SE. Pfizer Inc. was founded in 1849 and is headquartered in New York, New York. About Eli Lilly and Company (Get Free Report) Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity. It also provides oncology products, including Alimta, Cyramza, Erbitux, Jaypirca, Retevmo, Tyvyt, and Verzenio. In addition, the company offers Olumiant for rheumatoid arthritis, atopic dermatitis, severe alopecia areata, and COVID-19; Taltz for plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and non-radiographic axial spondylarthritis; Omvoh for ulcerative colitis; Cymbalta for depressive disorder, diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, generalized anxiety disorder, fibromyalgia, and chronic musculoskeletal pain; Ebglyss for severe atopic dermatitis; and Emgality for migraine prevention and episodic cluster headache. Further, it provides Cialis for erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia; and Forteo for osteoporosis. It has collaborations with Incyte Corporation; Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd and Genentech, Inc.; Biologics, Inc., AbCellera Biologics Inc.; and Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. The company was founded in 1876 and is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Algebris UK Ltd raised its holdings in Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC) by 460.1% in the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,174,463 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 964,782 shares during the quarter. Bank of America comprises approximately 8.2% of Algebris UK Ltds holdings, making the stock its largest position. Algebris UK Ltds holdings in Bank of America were worth $45,372,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Gradient Investments LLC grew its holdings in Bank of America by 7.8% during the 1st quarter. Gradient Investments LLC now owns 696,416 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $29,061,000 after acquiring an additional 50,296 shares during the last quarter. Employees Retirement System of Texas grew its holdings in Bank of America by 12.7% during the 4th quarter. Employees Retirement System of Texas now owns 158,455 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $69,640,000 after acquiring an additional 17,880 shares during the last quarter. Prosperity Wealth Management Inc. bought a new stake in Bank of America during the 1st quarter worth about $998,000. Alpha Cubed Investments LLC grew its holdings in Bank of America by 37.2% during the 1st quarter. Alpha Cubed Investments LLC now owns 65,038 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,714,000 after acquiring an additional 17,619 shares during the last quarter. Finally, International Assets Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in Bank of America by 170.5% during the 1st quarter. International Assets Investment Management LLC now owns 238,473 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $9,951,000 after acquiring an additional 150,299 shares during the last quarter. 70.71% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Bank of America alerts: Bank of America Stock Down 0.5% Shares of NYSE:BAC opened at $48.23 on Tuesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.79, a current ratio of 0.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.14. The stock has a market cap of $363.26 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.10, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.88 and a beta of 1.30. The businesss 50 day moving average is $45.98 and its 200 day moving average is $43.74. Bank of America Corporation has a 52-week low of $33.06 and a 52-week high of $49.31. Bank of America ( NYSE:BAC Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, July 16th. The financial services provider reported $0.89 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.86 by $0.03. The business had revenue of ($22,273.00) million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $26.79 billion. Bank of America had a net margin of 14.81% and a return on equity of 10.25%. The businesss revenue was up 4.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $0.83 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts predict that Bank of America Corporation will post 3.7 EPS for the current year. Bank of America declared that its Board of Directors has authorized a share buyback plan on Wednesday, July 23rd that authorizes the company to repurchase $40.00 billion in outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the financial services provider to buy up to 11.1% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are generally an indication that the companys leadership believes its shares are undervalued. Bank of America Increases Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 26th. Investors of record on Friday, September 5th will be given a dividend of $0.28 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, September 5th. This represents a $1.12 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.32%. This is a positive change from Bank of Americas previous quarterly dividend of $0.26. Bank of Americas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 30.41%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of brokerages have commented on BAC. Oppenheimer decreased their price objective on shares of Bank of America from $57.00 to $55.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Robert W. Baird restated a neutral rating and set a $52.00 target price on shares of Bank of America in a research report on Friday, June 27th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut their price target on shares of Bank of America from $49.50 to $43.50 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, April 3rd. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Bank of America from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Thursday, May 22nd. Finally, TD Cowen started coverage on Bank of America in a research note on Thursday, May 15th. They set a buy rating and a $53.00 target price for the company. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating, seventeen have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $50.03. Get Our Latest Research Report on Bank of America Bank of America Profile (Free Report) Bank of America Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides banking and financial products and services for individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses, institutional investors, large corporations, and governments worldwide. It operates in four segments: Consumer Banking, Global Wealth & Investment Management (GWIM), Global Banking, and Global Markets. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BAC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Bank of America Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of America and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bluebird Merchant Ventures Limited (LON:BMV Get Free Report) shares rose 9.3% on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as GBX 1.40 ($0.02) and last traded at GBX 1.37 ($0.02). Approximately 1,092,255 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 93% from the average daily volume of 15,326,623 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 1.26 ($0.02). Bluebird Merchant Ventures Trading Up 3.6% The companys 50 day simple moving average is GBX 0.91 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is GBX 0.72. The company has a market capitalization of 9.27 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 215.00 and a beta of 0.62. The company has a quick ratio of 0.08, a current ratio of 0.08 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.29. Get Bluebird Merchant Ventures alerts: Bluebird Merchant Ventures (LON:BMV Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 30th. The company reported GBX (0.12) ($0.00) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Bluebird Merchant Ventures Company Profile Bluebird Merchant Ventures Limited, together with its subsidiaries, engages in mining and developing of mineral properties. The company primarily explores for gold and silver deposits. It holds interests in the Gubong project and Kochang project located in South Korea. The company was incorporated in 2014 and is based in Road Town, the British Virgin Islands. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Bluebird Merchant Ventures Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bluebird Merchant Ventures and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Canopy Partners LLC acquired a new stake in ASE Technology Holding Co., Ltd. (NYSE:ASX Free Report) during the first quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor acquired 10,437 shares of the semiconductor companys stock, valued at approximately $91,000. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Choreo LLC boosted its stake in shares of ASE Technology by 10.7% in the first quarter. Choreo LLC now owns 11,520 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $101,000 after buying an additional 1,113 shares in the last quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. boosted its position in shares of ASE Technology by 9.1% during the 4th quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 15,526 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $156,000 after purchasing an additional 1,290 shares in the last quarter. United Capital Financial Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of ASE Technology by 12.2% during the 4th quarter. United Capital Financial Advisors LLC now owns 12,298 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $124,000 after purchasing an additional 1,338 shares in the last quarter. Leo Wealth LLC grew its stake in shares of ASE Technology by 12.0% during the 1st quarter. Leo Wealth LLC now owns 13,127 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $115,000 after purchasing an additional 1,409 shares during the period. Finally, Sei Investments Co. increased its holdings in shares of ASE Technology by 0.3% in the 4th quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 486,170 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $4,896,000 after purchasing an additional 1,629 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 6.80% of the companys stock. Get ASE Technology alerts: ASE Technology Stock Up 0.7% ASX stock opened at $10.57 on Tuesday. The company has a current ratio of 1.04, a quick ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.44. The companys 50-day moving average price is $10.17 and its 200 day moving average price is $9.78. ASE Technology Holding Co., Ltd. has a 52 week low of $6.94 and a 52 week high of $11.36. The company has a market cap of $23.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.49, a P/E/G ratio of 0.56 and a beta of 1.24. ASE Technology Increases Dividend ASE Technology ( NYSE:ASX Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 30th. The semiconductor company reported $0.10 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.12 by ($0.02). The company had revenue of $4.59 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $143.62 billion. ASE Technology had a net margin of 5.62% and a return on equity of 10.35%. On average, research analysts expect that ASE Technology Holding Co., Ltd. will post 0.76 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently announced an annual dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, August 6th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, July 2nd will be given a dividend of $0.359 per share. This represents a yield of 2.3%. This is an increase from ASE Technologys previous annual dividend of $0.32. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, July 2nd. ASE Technologys payout ratio is presently 55.32%. ASE Technology Company Profile (Free Report) ASE Technology Holding Co, Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides semiconductors packaging and testing, and electronic manufacturing services in the United States, Taiwan, Asia, Europe, and internationally. It develops, constructs, sells, leases, and manages real estate properties; produces substrates; offers information software, equipment leasing, investment advisory, and warehousing management services; commercial complex, after-sales, and support services; manages parking lot services; processes and sells computer and communication peripherals, electronic components, telecommunications equipment, and motherboards; and imports and exports goods and technology. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ASX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for ASE Technology Holding Co., Ltd. (NYSE:ASX Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for ASE Technology Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ASE Technology and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cetera Investment Advisers lowered its position in Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG Free Report) by 13.7% in the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 393,511 shares of the restaurant operators stock after selling 62,259 shares during the quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers holdings in Chipotle Mexican Grill were worth $19,758,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the stock. Alliancebernstein L.P. lifted its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 29.5% during the 4th quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 30,100,520 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $1,815,061,000 after buying an additional 6,853,470 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 1.4% during the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 28,476,031 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $1,712,238,000 after buying an additional 395,053 shares during the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp lifted its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 11.1% during the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 14,443,085 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $870,918,000 after buying an additional 1,438,860 shares during the last quarter. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC lifted its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 24.3% during the 4th quarter. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC now owns 10,277,656 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $619,743,000 after buying an additional 2,006,338 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Janus Henderson Group PLC lifted its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 0.6% during the 4th quarter. Janus Henderson Group PLC now owns 9,889,179 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $596,333,000 after buying an additional 58,535 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 91.31% of the companys stock. Get Chipotle Mexican Grill alerts: Insider Activity at Chipotle Mexican Grill In related news, insider Roger E. Theodoredis sold 113,875 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $49.70, for a total value of $5,659,587.50. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 109,815 shares in the company, valued at $5,457,805.50. The trade was a 50.91% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. 1.02% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Chipotle Mexican Grill Stock Down 3.9% NYSE:CMG opened at $44.92 on Tuesday. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $44.46 and a fifty-two week high of $66.74. The stock has a market cap of $60.52 billion, a PE ratio of 40.11, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 1.08. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $52.60 and its 200-day simple moving average is $52.46. Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 23rd. The restaurant operator reported $0.33 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.32 by $0.01. Chipotle Mexican Grill had a net margin of 13.32% and a return on equity of 43.50%. The business had revenue of $3.06 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.11 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.34 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 3.0% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts anticipate that Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. will post 1.29 earnings per share for the current year. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several analysts have recently weighed in on CMG shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price objective on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $58.00 to $54.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, May 29th. Stephens reaffirmed an equal weight rating and issued a $60.00 target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill in a report on Thursday, July 24th. TD Securities reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $57.00 target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill in a report on Wednesday, June 18th. Melius started coverage on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill in a report on Monday, July 14th. They issued a hold rating and a $60.00 target price on the stock. Finally, UBS Group lifted their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $60.00 to $65.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nineteen have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $60.71. Check Out Our Latest Report on CMG Chipotle Mexican Grill Company Profile (Free Report) Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurants. It sells food and beverages through offering burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, tacos, and salads. The company also provides delivery and related services its app and website. It has operations in the United States, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CMG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Chipotle Mexican Grill Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chipotle Mexican Grill and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cozad Asset Management Inc. reduced its position in shares of Cheniere Energy, Inc. (NYSE:LNG Free Report) by 4.8% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 33,306 shares of the energy companys stock after selling 1,686 shares during the quarter. Cozad Asset Management Inc.s holdings in Cheniere Energy were worth $7,707,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors LP boosted its stake in Cheniere Energy by 7.6% during the 1st quarter. Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors LP now owns 1,494,901 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $345,920,000 after purchasing an additional 105,875 shares in the last quarter. Fractal Investments LLC boosted its stake in Cheniere Energy by 27.7% during the 1st quarter. Fractal Investments LLC now owns 75,585 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $17,490,000 after purchasing an additional 16,385 shares in the last quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd boosted its stake in Cheniere Energy by 7.5% during the 1st quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd now owns 23,505 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $5,439,000 after purchasing an additional 1,630 shares in the last quarter. Martin Investment Management LLC boosted its stake in Cheniere Energy by 615.4% during the 4th quarter. Martin Investment Management LLC now owns 28,223 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $6,064,000 after purchasing an additional 24,278 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bessemer Group Inc. boosted its stake in Cheniere Energy by 3.8% during the 4th quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 37,378 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $8,032,000 after purchasing an additional 1,359 shares in the last quarter. 87.26% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Cheniere Energy alerts: Cheniere Energy Price Performance LNG opened at $228.40 on Tuesday. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $234.94 and a 200-day moving average of $229.25. The firm has a market capitalization of $50.66 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.71 and a beta of 0.42. Cheniere Energy, Inc. has a 12-month low of $167.66 and a 12-month high of $257.65. The company has a quick ratio of 1.06, a current ratio of 1.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.24. Cheniere Energy Announces Dividend Cheniere Energy ( NYSE:LNG Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 8th. The energy company reported $1.57 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.81 by ($1.24). Cheniere Energy had a return on equity of 32.62% and a net margin of 18.37%. The firm had revenue of $5.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.73 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $2.13 earnings per share. Cheniere Energys revenue was up 28.0% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts forecast that Cheniere Energy, Inc. will post 11.69 EPS for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, August 18th. Investors of record on Friday, August 8th will be issued a dividend of $0.50 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 8th. This represents a $2.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.88%. Cheniere Energys dividend payout ratio is 14.63%. Insider Activity In related news, Director Neal A. Shear sold 4,300 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, June 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $245.93, for a total transaction of $1,057,499.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 29,733 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,312,236.69. This trade represents a 12.63% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.26% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities analysts have issued reports on the company. Scotiabank reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Cheniere Energy in a research note on Tuesday, July 15th. Barclays reiterated an overweight rating and set a $262.00 price objective (up previously from $253.00) on shares of Cheniere Energy in a research report on Tuesday, July 15th. Wolfe Research downgraded Cheniere Energy from an outperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on Cheniere Energy from $252.00 to $265.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, April 28th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus cut their price objective on Cheniere Energy from $255.00 to $247.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, April 22nd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fifteen have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Cheniere Energy presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $260.36. Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on LNG About Cheniere Energy (Free Report) Cheniere Energy, Inc, an energy infrastructure company, primarily engages in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) related businesses in the United States. It owns and operates the Sabine Pass LNG terminal in Cameron Parish, Louisiana; and the Corpus Christi LNG terminal near Corpus Christi, Texas. The company also owns Creole Trail pipeline, a 94-mile natural gas supply pipeline that interconnects the Sabine Pass LNG Terminal with several interstate and intrastate pipelines; and operates Corpus Christi pipeline, a 21.5-mile natural gas supply pipeline that interconnects the Corpus Christi LNG terminal with various interstate and intrastate natural gas pipelines. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Cheniere Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cheniere Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft (OTCMKTS:MURGY Get Free Report) is one of 58 publicly-traded companies in the INS MULTI LINE industry, but how does it compare to its competitors? We will compare Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft to related businesses based on the strength of its dividends, earnings, risk, analyst recommendations, valuation, institutional ownership and profitability. Volatility and Risk Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft has a beta of 0.7, suggesting that its share price is 30% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschafts competitors have a beta of -6.73, suggesting that their average share price is 773% less volatile than the S&P 500. Get Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft alerts: Dividends Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft pays an annual dividend of $0.26 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.0%. Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft pays out 12.6% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, INS MULTI LINE companies pay a dividend yield of 2.5% and pay out 38.0% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. Analyst Recommendations Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft 0 5 0 1 2.33 Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft Competitors 318 2090 2878 111 2.52 This is a breakdown of recent ratings and price targets for Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft and its competitors, as reported by MarketBeat.com. As a group, INS MULTI LINE companies have a potential upside of 19.47%. Given Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschafts competitors stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft has less favorable growth aspects than its competitors. Valuation and Earnings This table compares Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft and its competitors revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft $65.83 billion $6.15 billion 6.40 Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft Competitors $20.51 billion $1.60 billion 84.46 Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft has higher revenue and earnings than its competitors. Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its competitors, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry. Insider & Institutional Ownership 0.2% of Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 63.6% of shares of all INS MULTI LINE companies are owned by institutional investors. 8.9% of shares of all INS MULTI LINE companies are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term. Profitability This table compares Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft and its competitors net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft 7.53% 14.53% 1.64% Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft Competitors 10.27% 9.80% 2.86% Summary Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft competitors beat Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft on 9 of the 15 factors compared. About Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft (Get Free Report) Munchener Ruckversicherungs-Gesellschaft Aktiengesellschaft in Munchen engages in the insurance and reinsurance businesses worldwide. It also offers life and health reinsurance solutions, such as digital underwriting and advanced analytics solutions, health insurance management system, financial market risks, financing, portfolio risk management, digitalized investment-linked solution, MIRA digital suite, MIRA POS, MIRApply insured and physician, claims risk adjustment, CLARA plus, data analytics, underwriting and claims, medical research, capital management, and health market. The company also provides property and casualty reinsurance solutions, including agricultural risk, data analytics, infrastructure risk profiler, property insurance, retroactive reinsurance, insurance linked securities, location risk, risk transfer, and cyber, NatCatSERVICE for natural catastrophe loss database, REALYTIX ZERO, IMPROVEX, and cert2go, as well as consulting services for reinsurance, business advisory, portfolio performance and management, claims management, commercial motor, telematics, and electric vehicles. In addition, the company provides solutions for industry clients, such as IoT cover, earnings quality insurance protection, captive insurance and risk transfer, liability, weather risks, space and satellite insurance, solar and biomass insurance, wind insurance, digital asset, mining risks cover, construction projects covers and services, aviation insurance, power and utilities, industrial cyber insurance, risk suite, location risk intelligence, digital risks, PV warranty insurance, parametric, Insure AI, e-mobility, circular economy, liquidation damage cover, and natural catastrophes solutions. Further, it offers life, property-casualty, health, legal protection, and travel insurance products under the ERGO brand name; and insurance solutions for agriculture, captive, epidemic, cyber, and renewable energy. The company was founded in 1880 and is based in Munich, Germany. Receive News & Ratings for Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mnchener Rckversicherungs-Gesellschaft and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Deuterium Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Macro Bank Inc. (NYSE:BMA Free Report) in the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm bought 2,893 shares of the banks stock, valued at approximately $218,000. Macro Bank comprises 0.5% of Deuterium Capital Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 18th biggest position. A number of other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of BMA. Shilanski & Associates Inc. increased its position in Macro Bank by 2.4% during the 1st quarter. Shilanski & Associates Inc. now owns 4,773 shares of the banks stock valued at $360,000 after buying an additional 112 shares in the last quarter. Townsquare Capital LLC increased its position in Macro Bank by 0.8% during the 4th quarter. Townsquare Capital LLC now owns 13,447 shares of the banks stock valued at $1,301,000 after buying an additional 113 shares in the last quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. increased its position in Macro Bank by 19.0% during the 1st quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 775 shares of the banks stock valued at $59,000 after buying an additional 124 shares in the last quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC increased its position in Macro Bank by 31.3% during the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 1,029 shares of the banks stock valued at $78,000 after buying an additional 245 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. bought a new position in Macro Bank during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Get Macro Bank alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of research firms recently weighed in on BMA. Itau BBA Securities began coverage on Macro Bank in a research report on Tuesday, May 20th. They set a market perform rating and a $85.00 price objective for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on Macro Bank from $78.00 to $89.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, April 21st. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Macro Bank presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $62.13. Macro Bank Price Performance NYSE:BMA opened at $70.31 on Tuesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.05, a current ratio of 1.05 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $74.81 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $83.94. The stock has a market cap of $4.49 billion, a PE ratio of 6.16, a P/E/G ratio of 0.28 and a beta of 1.60. Macro Bank Inc. has a 52 week low of $42.22 and a 52 week high of $118.42. Macro Bank (NYSE:BMA Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, May 28th. The bank reported $0.65 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.76 by ($1.11). Macro Bank had a return on equity of 1.50% and a net margin of 1.12%. The business had revenue of $759.36 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $837.49 billion. As a group, analysts forecast that Macro Bank Inc. will post 7.84 EPS for the current fiscal year. Macro Bank Cuts Dividend The business also recently declared a dividend, which was paid on Friday, July 25th. Investors of record on Friday, July 18th were given a $0.3985 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, July 18th. This represents a yield of 9.2%. Macro Banks dividend payout ratio is currently 19.11%. Macro Bank Profile (Free Report) Banco Macro SA provides various banking products and services to retail and corporate customers in Argentina. It offers various retail banking products and services, such as savings and checking accounts, time deposits, credit and debit cards, consumer finance loans, mortgage loans, automobile loans, overdrafts, credit-related services, home and car insurance coverage, tax collection, utility payments, automated teller machines, and money transfers. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Macro Bank Inc. (NYSE:BMA Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Macro Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Macro Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft (NYSE:DB Free Report) from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report released on Saturday morning. A number of other research analysts also recently weighed in on DB. Citigroup reiterated a sell rating on shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft in a research report on Friday. Cfra Research upgraded shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from a moderate sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. Finally, Bank of America began coverage on shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft in a research report on Tuesday, June 10th. They set a buy rating for the company. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating, four have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy. Get Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on DB Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft Trading Down 2.6% Shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft stock opened at $32.60 on Friday. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $29.01 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $24.87. The company has a market cap of $64.94 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.40, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.43 and a beta of 0.97. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft has a fifty-two week low of $13.70 and a fifty-two week high of $34.14. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.39, a quick ratio of 0.79 and a current ratio of 0.79. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft (NYSE:DB Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 24th. The bank reported $0.54 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.78 by ($0.24). The firm had revenue of $9.21 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.80 billion. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft had a return on equity of 6.01% and a net margin of 7.67%. As a group, equities analysts predict that Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft will post 2.93 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Institutional Trading of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Allianz Asset Management GmbH grew its stake in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 109.7% during the 2nd quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 2,631,591 shares of the banks stock valued at $76,658,000 after acquiring an additional 1,376,552 shares in the last quarter. Generali Asset Management SPA SGR grew its stake in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 6.9% during the 2nd quarter. Generali Asset Management SPA SGR now owns 269,061 shares of the banks stock valued at $7,878,000 after acquiring an additional 17,430 shares in the last quarter. Twin Tree Management LP grew its stake in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 352.2% during the 2nd quarter. Twin Tree Management LP now owns 356,812 shares of the banks stock valued at $10,447,000 after acquiring an additional 277,914 shares in the last quarter. Ritholtz Wealth Management grew its stake in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 10.3% during the 2nd quarter. Ritholtz Wealth Management now owns 190,681 shares of the banks stock valued at $5,583,000 after acquiring an additional 17,804 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Sagespring Wealth Partners LLC purchased a new stake in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft during the 2nd quarter valued at about $333,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 27.90% of the companys stock. About Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft (Get Free Report) Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft, a stock corporation, provides corporate and investment banking, and asset management products and services to private individuals, corporate entities, and institutional clients in Germany, the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. EVE (NYSE:EVEX Get Free Report) is expected to be releasing its Q2 2025 earnings data before the market opens on Tuesday, August 5th. Analysts expect EVE to post earnings of ($0.15) per share for the quarter. EVE (NYSE:EVEX Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Monday, May 12th. The company reported ($0.16) earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.13) by ($0.03). On average, analysts expect EVE to post $-1 EPS for the current fiscal year and $-1 EPS for the next fiscal year. Get EVE alerts: EVE Price Performance Shares of NYSE:EVEX opened at $6.69 on Tuesday. EVE has a twelve month low of $2.33 and a twelve month high of $7.70. The companys 50 day moving average is $6.02 and its 200 day moving average is $4.71. The company has a current ratio of 3.60, a quick ratio of 3.60 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.87. The company has a market cap of $1.99 billion, a PE ratio of -12.16 and a beta of 0.85. Institutional Investors Weigh In On EVE Analyst Ratings Changes Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. AQR Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of EVE by 167.8% during the 1st quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 52,456 shares of the companys stock valued at $174,000 after buying an additional 32,868 shares in the last quarter. Strs Ohio purchased a new position in shares of EVE during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $75,000. Finally, Rhumbline Advisers lifted its position in shares of EVE by 25.5% during the 1st quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 35,223 shares of the companys stock valued at $117,000 after buying an additional 7,154 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 1.27% of the companys stock. Several equities analysts recently weighed in on the stock. HC Wainwright increased their price target on shares of EVE from $6.00 to $8.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, June 9th. Cantor Fitzgerald reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $5.00 price target on shares of EVE in a report on Monday, June 23rd. View Our Latest Research Report on EVEX About EVE (Get Free Report) Eve Holding, Inc is a special purpose acquisition company focused on the aviation sector. The company was founded on 7th August, 2020 and is headquartered in Melbourne, FL. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for EVE Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EVE and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. LOS ANGELES, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Three people were killed and three others injured Monday morning in a shooting outside a casino in Reno, the U.S. state of Nevada, local authorities said. The Reno Police Department, along with multiple partner agencies, responded at 7:25 a.m. local time (1425 GMT) to the report of an active shooter at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino located at 2500 East Second Street, said the department in a news release. Police officers arrived on the scene within two and a half minutes. The unidentified male gunman walked through a parking lot from the north and emerged at the casino's valet area, said Chris Crawforth, chief of the Sparks Police Department. Sparks is a nearby city east of Reno. The gun of the suspect initially malfunctioned before he was able to shoot at a group of bystanders. Five people in the valet area sustained gunshot wounds. One victim was killed on the scene, and another died later at a hospital. Two of the five victims remained in critical condition and one was released from the hospital, according to Crawforth. The suspect fled through the parking lot and exchanged gunfire with a security guard there. A third person who was driving through the parking lot was fatally shot by the suspect. Officials said the suspect was struck by police gunfire and taken to a hospital, where he remains in critical condition. HB Wealth Management LLC increased its position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:EW Free Report) by 34.9% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 21,562 shares of the medical research companys stock after purchasing an additional 5,577 shares during the period. HB Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Edwards Lifesciences were worth $1,563,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Equitable Trust Co. boosted its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 3.1% during the 1st quarter. Equitable Trust Co. now owns 75,273 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $5,456,000 after purchasing an additional 2,231 shares during the period. Caliber Wealth Management LLC KS purchased a new position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences during the 1st quarter worth about $1,696,000. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 10.7% during the 1st quarter. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. now owns 10,707 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $776,000 after purchasing an additional 1,032 shares during the period. One Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 54.2% during the 1st quarter. One Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 18,304 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $1,327,000 after purchasing an additional 6,431 shares during the period. Finally, AE Wealth Management LLC boosted its position in Edwards Lifesciences by 18.8% in the 1st quarter. AE Wealth Management LLC now owns 90,502 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $6,560,000 after buying an additional 14,334 shares during the period. 79.46% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Edwards Lifesciences alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several equities research analysts have issued reports on EW shares. Evercore ISI boosted their price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $77.00 to $80.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research report on Friday. Barclays boosted their price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $90.00 to $95.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday. Argus raised shares of Edwards Lifesciences to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, July 10th. Mizuho boosted their price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $87.00 to $95.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday. Finally, Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $75.00 to $81.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 15th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have given a hold rating, thirteen have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Edwards Lifesciences presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $85.00. Edwards Lifesciences Stock Down 1.9% NYSE:EW opened at $78.46 on Tuesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $46.02 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.29, a PEG ratio of 4.00 and a beta of 1.11. Edwards Lifesciences Corporation has a 1-year low of $59.41 and a 1-year high of $83.00. The companys fifty day moving average price is $76.58 and its 200-day moving average price is $73.59. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06, a current ratio of 4.45 and a quick ratio of 3.66. Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 24th. The medical research company reported $0.67 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.62 by $0.05. The firm had revenue of $1.53 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.49 billion. Edwards Lifesciences had a net margin of 72.96% and a return on equity of 15.25%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 11.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $0.70 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Edwards Lifesciences Corporation will post 2.45 EPS for the current year. Insider Transactions at Edwards Lifesciences In other news, VP Donald E. Bobo, Jr. sold 2,570 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, June 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $77.40, for a total value of $198,918.00. Following the sale, the vice president owned 50,356 shares in the company, valued at $3,897,554.40. This represents a 4.86% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, VP Daniel J. Lippis sold 4,114 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, July 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $79.46, for a total transaction of $326,898.44. Following the sale, the vice president owned 22,002 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,748,278.92. This represents a 15.75% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 34,962 shares of company stock valued at $2,641,387. 0.34% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. About Edwards Lifesciences (Free Report) Edwards Lifesciences Corporation provides products and technologies for structural heart disease and critical care monitoring in the United States, Europe, Japan, and internationally. It offers transcatheter heart valve replacement products for the minimally invasive replacement of aortic heart valves under the Edwards SAPIEN family of valves system; and transcatheter heart valve repair and replacement products to treat mitral and tricuspid valve diseases under the PASCAL PRECISION and Cardioband names. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Edwards Lifesciences Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Edwards Lifesciences and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Citizens (NYSE:CIA Get Free Report) and NN Group (OTCMKTS:NNGRY Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their institutional ownership, valuation, analyst recommendations, profitability, risk, dividends and earnings. Profitability This table compares Citizens and NN Groups net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Get Citizens alerts: Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Citizens 3.60% 5.50% 0.67% NN Group N/A N/A N/A Analyst Recommendations This is a summary of current ratings and recommmendations for Citizens and NN Group, as reported by MarketBeat. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Citizens 0 0 0 1 4.00 NN Group 1 3 0 1 2.20 Insider & Institutional Ownership Volatility and Risk 13.7% of Citizens shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 0.0% of NN Group shares are held by institutional investors. 1.6% of Citizens shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a company is poised for long-term growth. Citizens has a beta of 0.36, indicating that its share price is 64% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, NN Group has a beta of 0.87, indicating that its share price is 13% less volatile than the S&P 500. Earnings and Valuation This table compares Citizens and NN Groups top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Citizens $245.00 million 0.84 $14.91 million $0.17 24.03 NN Group $10.28 billion 1.74 $1.71 billion N/A N/A NN Group has higher revenue and earnings than Citizens. Summary Citizens beats NN Group on 6 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks. About Citizens (Get Free Report) Citizens, Inc. provides life insurance products in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Life Insurance and Home Service Insurance. The Life Insurance segment issues ordinary whole life insurance and endowment policies in the United States dollar-denominated amounts to non-U.S. residents in through independent marketing agencies and consultants. The Home Service Insurance segment offers final expense life insurance and property insurance policies to middle-and lower-income households, as well as whole life products in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Arkansas. This segment provides its products and services through funeral homes and independent agents. The company provides accident and health insurance policies. Citizens, Inc. was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Austin, Texas. About NN Group (Get Free Report) NN Group N.V., a financial services company, provides life and non-life insurance products in the Netherlands and internationally. The company operates through Netherlands Life, Netherlands Non-life, Insurance Europe, Japan Life, Banking, and Other segments. It offers Life insurance products, such as group and individual pension products, retail life insurance, and SME life insurance products; and non-life insurance products, including motor, fire, liability, transport, travel, health, property and casualty, and disability and accident insurance products. The company also provides banking services, including mortgage loans, bank annuities, consumer savings, and retail savings and investment products; reinsurance services; and retirement products and services. It offers its products to individuals, small and medium-sized enterprises, and Corporates customers directly through tied agents, agents/ brokers, platform insurance, and direct channels. The company was formerly known as ING Insurance Topholding N.V. and changed its name to NN Group N.V. in March 2014. NN Group N.V. was founded in 1845 and is headquartered in the Hague, the Netherlands. Receive News & Ratings for Citizens Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Citizens and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cetera Investment Advisers trimmed its position in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF (BATS:ICVT Free Report) by 12.0% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 203,737 shares of the companys stock after selling 27,794 shares during the quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers owned approximately 0.70% of iShares Convertible Bond ETF worth $17,034,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Several other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in ICVT. Columbia River Financial Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF during the 1st quarter worth $29,000. Abound Wealth Management acquired a new position in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF during the 1st quarter worth $42,000. Sunbelt Securities Inc. lifted its holdings in iShares Convertible Bond ETF by 76.1% in the 1st quarter. Sunbelt Securities Inc. now owns 502 shares of the companys stock worth $42,000 after purchasing an additional 217 shares during the last quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. acquired a new stake in iShares Convertible Bond ETF in the 4th quarter worth approximately $62,000. Finally, LGT Financial Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in iShares Convertible Bond ETF by 77.6% in the 4th quarter. LGT Financial Advisors LLC now owns 934 shares of the companys stock worth $79,000 after purchasing an additional 408 shares during the last quarter. Get iShares Convertible Bond ETF alerts: iShares Convertible Bond ETF Price Performance Shares of ICVT stock opened at $92.76 on Tuesday. iShares Convertible Bond ETF has a 12-month low of $75.97 and a 12-month high of $93.29. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $89.37 and a 200 day moving average price of $86.69. About iShares Convertible Bond ETF The iShares Convertible Bond ETF (ICVT) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in broad credit fixed income. The fund tracks an index of USD-denominated convertible bonds weighted by market value. The index contains only cash-pay convertibles and excludes mandatory and preferred convertibles. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ICVT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Convertible Bond ETF (BATS:ICVT Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Convertible Bond ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Convertible Bond ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Lloyds Banking Group (NYSE:LYG Free Report) from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note released on Saturday. LYG has been the subject of a number of other reports. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods upgraded Lloyds Banking Group from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating in a research report on Thursday, July 17th. HSBC upgraded Lloyds Banking Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 1st. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, three have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy. Get Lloyds Banking Group alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Lloyds Banking Group Lloyds Banking Group Price Performance NYSE:LYG opened at $4.22 on Friday. Lloyds Banking Group has a 12 month low of $2.56 and a 12 month high of $4.34. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $4.19 and a two-hundred day moving average of $3.76. The company has a current ratio of 1.44, a quick ratio of 0.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.68. The firm has a market cap of $63.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.55, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.91 and a beta of 0.99. Lloyds Banking Group (NYSE:LYG Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 24th. The financial services provider reported $0.14 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.10 by $0.04. Lloyds Banking Group had a return on equity of 9.28% and a net margin of 17.51%. The company had revenue of $6.13 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.86 billion. On average, analysts expect that Lloyds Banking Group will post 0.27 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Lloyds Banking Group Cuts Dividend The firm also recently disclosed a semi-annual dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 19th. Investors of record on Monday, August 4th will be given a $0.0655 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, August 4th. This represents a yield of 3.7%. Lloyds Banking Groups payout ratio is 55.00%. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Riversedge Advisors LLC grew its position in Lloyds Banking Group by 10.5% in the second quarter. Riversedge Advisors LLC now owns 25,680 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $109,000 after acquiring an additional 2,433 shares during the period. Jackson Thornton Wealth Management LLC grew its position in Lloyds Banking Group by 20.4% in the first quarter. Jackson Thornton Wealth Management LLC now owns 15,168 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $57,000 after acquiring an additional 2,573 shares during the period. Perigon Wealth Management LLC lifted its stake in Lloyds Banking Group by 4.5% during the first quarter. Perigon Wealth Management LLC now owns 61,411 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $235,000 after purchasing an additional 2,617 shares in the last quarter. Mutual Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Lloyds Banking Group by 27.2% during the first quarter. Mutual Advisors LLC now owns 12,916 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $51,000 after purchasing an additional 2,758 shares in the last quarter. Finally, SBI Securities Co. Ltd. lifted its stake in Lloyds Banking Group by 22.1% during the first quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 15,369 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $59,000 after purchasing an additional 2,784 shares in the last quarter. 2.15% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Lloyds Banking Group Company Profile (Get Free Report) Lloyds Banking Group plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides a range of banking and financial services in the United Kingdom and internationally. It operates in three segments: Retail; Commercial Banking; and Insurance, Pensions and Investments. The Retail segment offers a range of financial service products, including current accounts, savings, mortgages, motor finance, unsecured loans, leasing solutions, and credit cards to personal customers. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Lloyds Banking Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Lloyds Banking Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Marshall Investment Management LLC decreased its holdings in shares of SPDR S&P Insurance ETF (NYSEARCA:KIE Free Report) by 5.3% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 23,049 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 1,302 shares during the period. Marshall Investment Management LLCs holdings in SPDR S&P Insurance ETF were worth $1,395,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in KIE. Golden State Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of SPDR S&P Insurance ETF during the 1st quarter valued at about $27,000. Provident Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of SPDR S&P Insurance ETF during the 1st quarter valued at about $48,000. National Bank of Canada FI boosted its position in shares of SPDR S&P Insurance ETF by 33.1% during the 4th quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 1,167 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $66,000 after purchasing an additional 290 shares in the last quarter. Headlands Technologies LLC boosted its position in shares of SPDR S&P Insurance ETF by 3,187.3% during the 4th quarter. Headlands Technologies LLC now owns 2,334 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $132,000 after purchasing an additional 2,263 shares in the last quarter. Finally, NBC Securities Inc. boosted its holdings in SPDR S&P Insurance ETF by 136,250.0% in the first quarter. NBC Securities Inc. now owns 2,727 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $165,000 after acquiring an additional 2,725 shares in the last quarter. Get SPDR S&P Insurance ETF alerts: SPDR S&P Insurance ETF Stock Performance Shares of NYSEARCA:KIE opened at $57.03 on Tuesday. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $58.30 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $58.11. The firm has a market cap of $849.75 million, a P/E ratio of 14.40 and a beta of 0.86. SPDR S&P Insurance ETF has a 52-week low of $50.98 and a 52-week high of $62.47. About SPDR S&P Insurance ETF The SPDR S&P Insurance ETF (the Fund), formerly SPDR KBW Insurance ETF, seeks to closely match the returns and characteristics of the S&P Banks Select Industry Index. The Fund invests all, but at least 80%, of its total assets in the securities comprising the Index. The Fund invests in all of the securities represented in the Index in approximately the same proportions as the Index. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding KIE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for SPDR S&P Insurance ETF (NYSEARCA:KIE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for SPDR S&P Insurance ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for SPDR S&P Insurance ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mawer Investment Management Ltd. lowered its stake in shares of CVS Health Corporation (NYSE:CVS Free Report) by 0.7% during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 936,444 shares of the pharmacy operators stock after selling 6,295 shares during the quarter. Mawer Investment Management Ltd.s holdings in CVS Health were worth $63,444,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Whitebox Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of CVS Health during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $249,000. Jennison Associates LLC boosted its holdings in CVS Health by 503.8% during the 1st quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 1,896,341 shares of the pharmacy operators stock valued at $128,477,000 after acquiring an additional 1,582,257 shares during the period. Cerity Partners LLC boosted its holdings in CVS Health by 25.0% during the 1st quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 648,266 shares of the pharmacy operators stock valued at $43,920,000 after acquiring an additional 129,535 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp boosted its holdings in CVS Health by 2.1% during the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 8,981,262 shares of the pharmacy operators stock valued at $608,481,000 after acquiring an additional 183,813 shares during the period. Finally, Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd. Can purchased a new position in CVS Health during the 4th quarter valued at $121,742,000. Institutional investors own 80.66% of the companys stock. Get CVS Health alerts: CVS Health Stock Down 1.7% Shares of CVS opened at $59.65 on Tuesday. CVS Health Corporation has a 52 week low of $43.56 and a 52 week high of $72.51. The company has a quick ratio of 0.63, a current ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.77. The company has a market capitalization of $75.46 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.24, a PEG ratio of 0.87 and a beta of 0.57. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $64.55 and its 200-day moving average price is $63.74. CVS Health Announces Dividend CVS Health ( NYSE:CVS Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The pharmacy operator reported $2.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.62 by $0.63. The company had revenue of $94.59 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $93.07 billion. CVS Health had a return on equity of 10.59% and a net margin of 1.39%. CVS Healths revenue for the quarter was up 7.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $1.31 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts predict that CVS Health Corporation will post 5.89 EPS for the current year. The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 1st. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, July 22nd will be given a $0.665 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, July 22nd. This represents a $2.66 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.46%. CVS Healths dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 63.48%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on CVS shares. Truist Financial boosted their price objective on CVS Health from $82.00 to $84.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, May 12th. Wells Fargo & Company restated an overweight rating and set a $84.00 price objective (up previously from $76.00) on shares of CVS Health in a report on Tuesday, May 6th. Barclays set a $79.00 target price on CVS Health and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday, June 2nd. UBS Group lowered their target price on CVS Health from $71.00 to $67.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, July 22nd. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded CVS Health from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, May 9th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eighteen have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $74.82. Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on CVS Insider Buying and Selling at CVS Health In related news, Director Guy P. Sansone purchased 1,570 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, June 5th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $63.70 per share, with a total value of $100,009.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director owned 12,007 shares in the company, valued at $764,845.90. This trade represents a 15.04% increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. 1.22% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. About CVS Health (Free Report) CVS Health Corporation provides health solutions in the United States. It operates through Health Care Benefits, Health Services, and Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segments. The Health Care Benefits segment offers traditional, voluntary, and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CVS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for CVS Health Corporation (NYSE:CVS Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for CVS Health Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CVS Health and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mawer Investment Management Ltd. trimmed its holdings in Corpay, Inc. (NYSE:CPAY Free Report) by 11.5% in the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,033,243 shares of the companys stock after selling 133,688 shares during the period. Corpay makes up 1.7% of Mawer Investment Management Ltd.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 18th biggest holding. Mawer Investment Management Ltd. owned approximately 1.47% of Corpay worth $360,312,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of CPAY. Meeder Advisory Services Inc. grew its position in shares of Corpay by 5.0% during the 1st quarter. Meeder Advisory Services Inc. now owns 678 shares of the companys stock valued at $236,000 after purchasing an additional 32 shares in the last quarter. Fulton Bank N.A. grew its position in shares of Corpay by 2.1% during the 1st quarter. Fulton Bank N.A. now owns 1,665 shares of the companys stock valued at $581,000 after purchasing an additional 34 shares in the last quarter. Wedmont Private Capital grew its position in shares of Corpay by 3.2% during the 1st quarter. Wedmont Private Capital now owns 1,110 shares of the companys stock valued at $387,000 after purchasing an additional 34 shares in the last quarter. Continuum Advisory LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Corpay by 29.6% during the 4th quarter. Continuum Advisory LLC now owns 184 shares of the companys stock worth $62,000 after acquiring an additional 42 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fifth Third Bancorp lifted its holdings in shares of Corpay by 1.6% during the 1st quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp now owns 2,691 shares of the companys stock worth $938,000 after acquiring an additional 43 shares during the last quarter. 98.84% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Corpay alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of analysts have recently issued reports on CPAY shares. Robert W. Baird set a $440.00 price objective on shares of Corpay in a report on Tuesday, June 10th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft started coverage on shares of Corpay in a report on Thursday, July 17th. They set a buy rating and a $390.00 price objective for the company. UBS Group dropped their price objective on shares of Corpay from $400.00 to $365.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, May 7th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Corpay from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, July 18th. Finally, Oppenheimer started coverage on shares of Corpay in a report on Monday, April 28th. They set a market perform rating for the company. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eleven have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $401.07. Corpay Stock Performance NYSE CPAY opened at $333.69 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of $23.52 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.40, a PEG ratio of 1.28 and a beta of 0.95. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $331.12 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $341.20. The company has a quick ratio of 1.10, a current ratio of 1.10 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.69. Corpay, Inc. has a 12-month low of $265.06 and a 12-month high of $400.81. Corpay (NYSE:CPAY Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, May 6th. The company reported $4.51 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $4.50 by $0.01. The firm had revenue of $1.01 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.02 billion. Corpay had a net margin of 25.15% and a return on equity of 41.61%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 7.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $4.10 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts forecast that Corpay, Inc. will post 19.76 EPS for the current year. Corpay Profile (Free Report) Corpay, Inc operates as a payments company that helps businesses and consumers manage vehicle-related expenses, lodging expenses, and corporate payments in the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company offers vehicle payment solutions, which include fuel, tolls, parking, fleet maintenance, and long-haul transportation services, as well as prepaid food and transportation vouchers and cards. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CPAY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Corpay, Inc. (NYSE:CPAY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Corpay Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Corpay and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Loader Please wait while your request is being verified... MJT & Associates Financial Advisory Group Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF (NYSEARCA:PCY Free Report) during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor purchased 1,563 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $32,000. Several other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Farther Finance Advisors LLC boosted its position in Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF by 79.3% in the 1st quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 1,262 shares of the companys stock valued at $26,000 after buying an additional 558 shares during the period. Fourth Dimension Wealth LLC purchased a new stake in Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $32,000. Sound Income Strategies LLC boosted its position in Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF by 20.6% in the 1st quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 4,855 shares of the companys stock valued at $98,000 after buying an additional 830 shares during the period. Zullo Investment Group Inc. purchased a new stake in Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF in the 1st quarter valued at about $205,000. Finally, Comerica Bank boosted its position in Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF by 10.4% in the 4th quarter. Comerica Bank now owns 10,202 shares of the companys stock valued at $202,000 after buying an additional 963 shares during the period. 69.00% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF alerts: Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF Price Performance Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF stock opened at $20.50 on Tuesday. Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF has a 1 year low of $18.71 and a 1 year high of $21.69. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $20.13 and a two-hundred day moving average of $20.05. Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF Company Profile The Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF (PCY) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in broad credit fixed income. The fund tracks a tier-weighted index of US-dollar-denominated sovereign debt in emerging markets with at least 3 years to maturity. PCY was launched on Oct 11, 2007 and is managed by Invesco. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PCY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF (NYSEARCA:PCY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco Emerging Markets Sovereign Debt ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Morningstar Investment Management LLC bought a new stake in Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF (NYSEARCA:FLBR Free Report) during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm bought 201,947 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,337,000. Morningstar Investment Management LLC owned 1.82% of Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF at the end of the most recent quarter. Other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. CX Institutional purchased a new stake in Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF during the 1st quarter worth $100,000. Bank of America Corp DE grew its stake in Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF by 269.5% during the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 11,883 shares of the companys stock valued at $168,000 after purchasing an additional 8,667 shares in the last quarter. Wealthfront Advisers LLC purchased a new stake in Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF during the 1st quarter worth approximately $170,000. Comprehensive Money Management Services LLC acquired a new position in shares of Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $197,000. Finally, Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF by 5.0% during the 1st quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 14,207 shares of the companys stock valued at $235,000 after buying an additional 682 shares during the last quarter. Get Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF alerts: Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF Price Performance NYSEARCA FLBR opened at $16.52 on Tuesday. The company has a market capitalization of $196.59 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.04 and a beta of 0.98. Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF has a 12 month low of $13.98 and a 12 month high of $18.82. The companys fifty day moving average price is $17.50 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $16.54. About Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF The Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF (FLBR) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the FTSE Brazil RIC Capped index. The fund tracks a market cap-weighted index of Brazilian large- and mid-cap stocks. FLBR was launched on Nov 3, 2017 and is managed by Franklin Templeton. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FLBR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF (NYSEARCA:FLBR Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. NEW YORK, July 28 (Xinhua) -- An active shooter shot at least one police officer and one civilian at an office building in Manhattan, New York City on Monday, local media reported. Nan Fung Trinity HK Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Mexico ETF (NYSEARCA:EWW Free Report) by 201.9% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 665,100 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 444,800 shares during the quarter. iShares MSCI Mexico ETF comprises about 5.4% of Nan Fung Trinity HK Ltd.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 3rd largest holding. Nan Fung Trinity HK Ltd. owned approximately 2.05% of iShares MSCI Mexico ETF worth $33,893,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the business. Compass Rose Asset Management LP bought a new position in iShares MSCI Mexico ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $18,728,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its holdings in iShares MSCI Mexico ETF by 18.1% in the 4th quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 1,272,295 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $59,569,000 after buying an additional 194,967 shares during the period. Balyasny Asset Management L.P. bought a new position in iShares MSCI Mexico ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $5,295,000. Barclays PLC increased its holdings in iShares MSCI Mexico ETF by 60.0% in the 4th quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 267,686 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $12,533,000 after buying an additional 100,340 shares during the period. Finally, Millennium Management LLC increased its holdings in iShares MSCI Mexico ETF by 439.6% in the 4th quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 116,045 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $5,433,000 after buying an additional 94,538 shares during the period. Get iShares MSCI Mexico ETF alerts: iShares MSCI Mexico ETF Trading Down 1.6% EWW opened at $60.06 on Tuesday. The companys 50 day moving average is $60.32 and its 200-day moving average is $55.21. iShares MSCI Mexico ETF has a 1-year low of $46.41 and a 1-year high of $62.42. The company has a market cap of $1.80 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.85 and a beta of 1.00. iShares MSCI Mexico ETF Company Profile iShares MSCI Mexico Capped ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares MSCI Mexico Capped Investable Market Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the MSCI Mexico IMI 25/50 Index (the Index). The Index consists of stocks traded primarily on the Mexican Stock Exchange. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EWW? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI Mexico ETF (NYSEARCA:EWW Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI Mexico ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI Mexico ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Nan Fung Trinity HK Ltd. purchased a new stake in shares of Vornado Realty Trust (NYSE:VNO Free Report) in the first quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor purchased 88,100 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock, valued at approximately $3,259,000. Other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. SG Americas Securities LLC bought a new stake in Vornado Realty Trust in the 1st quarter worth approximately $2,151,000. Teacher Retirement System of Texas bought a new stake in Vornado Realty Trust in the 1st quarter worth approximately $876,000. Handelsbanken Fonder AB lifted its position in Vornado Realty Trust by 20.7% in the 1st quarter. Handelsbanken Fonder AB now owns 51,300 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,898,000 after buying an additional 8,800 shares during the last quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC lifted its position in Vornado Realty Trust by 18.2% in the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 5,636 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $208,000 after buying an additional 868 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. lifted its position in Vornado Realty Trust by 6.1% in the 4th quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 221,710 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $9,321,000 after buying an additional 12,780 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 90.02% of the companys stock. Get Vornado Realty Trust alerts: Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, EVP Haim Chera sold 20,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, May 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $37.98, for a total value of $759,600.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 30,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,139,400. This represents a 40.00% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. 8.42% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of analysts recently weighed in on the company. Mizuho dropped their target price on Vornado Realty Trust from $48.00 to $43.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Scotiabank lifted their price target on Vornado Realty Trust from $42.00 to $45.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Monday, July 14th. Piper Sandler lifted their price target on Vornado Realty Trust from $38.00 to $39.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, May 23rd. Wall Street Zen raised Vornado Realty Trust from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, May 15th. Finally, Truist Financial lifted their price target on Vornado Realty Trust from $37.00 to $38.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, June 3rd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Vornado Realty Trust presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $38.09. View Our Latest Research Report on Vornado Realty Trust Vornado Realty Trust Price Performance Shares of VNO stock opened at $38.97 on Tuesday. The stock has a market cap of $7.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 74.94, a PEG ratio of 14.45 and a beta of 1.50. The businesss fifty day moving average is $38.85 and its 200 day moving average is $38.63. Vornado Realty Trust has a twelve month low of $26.19 and a twelve month high of $46.63. The company has a quick ratio of 4.10, a current ratio of 4.10 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.81. Vornado Realty Trust (NYSE:VNO Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Monday, May 5th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.63 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.52 by $0.11. The company had revenue of $461.58 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $452.68 million. Vornado Realty Trust had a return on equity of 3.83% and a net margin of 9.17%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 5.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.55 earnings per share. Research analysts expect that Vornado Realty Trust will post 2.31 EPS for the current fiscal year. Vornado Realty Trust Company Profile (Free Report) Vornado Realty Trust is a fully integrated equity real estate investment trust. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding VNO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Vornado Realty Trust (NYSE:VNO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Vornado Realty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vornado Realty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Assetmark Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O Free Report) by 5.1% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 67,174 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after acquiring an additional 3,245 shares during the quarter. Assetmark Inc.s holdings in Realty Income were worth $3,897,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in O. Victory Capital Management Inc. boosted its position in Realty Income by 5.3% in the 1st quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 396,798 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $23,018,000 after buying an additional 19,965 shares during the last quarter. Employees Retirement System of Texas boosted its position in Realty Income by 19.0% in the 4th quarter. Employees Retirement System of Texas now owns 488,183 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $26,074,000 after buying an additional 78,000 shares during the last quarter. Sterling Capital Management LLC boosted its position in Realty Income by 21.2% in the 4th quarter. Sterling Capital Management LLC now owns 111,557 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $5,958,000 after buying an additional 19,527 shares during the last quarter. Kentucky Retirement Systems Insurance Trust Fund purchased a new position in Realty Income in the 1st quarter valued at about $1,470,000. Finally, Renaissance Technologies LLC boosted its position in Realty Income by 21.6% in the 4th quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 715,344 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $38,207,000 after buying an additional 127,300 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.81% of the companys stock. Get Realty Income alerts: Realty Income Price Performance O opened at $56.88 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of $51.37 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 51.71, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.06 and a beta of 0.75. Realty Income Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $50.71 and a fifty-two week high of $64.88. The companys 50-day moving average price is $57.00 and its 200 day moving average price is $56.27. The company has a quick ratio of 1.74, a current ratio of 1.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69. Realty Income Dividend Announcement Realty Income ( NYSE:O Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, May 5th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.06 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $1.06. The firm had revenue of $1.31 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.28 billion. Realty Income had a net margin of 18.15% and a return on equity of 2.51%. Realty Incomes quarterly revenue was up 9.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.03 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Realty Income Corporation will post 4.19 earnings per share for the current year. The firm also recently disclosed a aug 25 dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Investors of record on Friday, August 1st will be paid a dividend of $0.269 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 1st. This represents a yield of 5.7%. Realty Incomes dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 293.64%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of equities analysts have weighed in on the stock. Mizuho upped their price objective on shares of Realty Income from $54.00 to $59.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, April 3rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their target price on shares of Realty Income from $64.00 to $61.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Monday, May 5th. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their target price on shares of Realty Income from $65.50 to $68.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, May 6th. Wolfe Research downgraded shares of Realty Income from an outperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Finally, UBS Group dropped their target price on shares of Realty Income from $64.00 to $62.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, May 13th. Ten research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Realty Income currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $61.15. View Our Latest Report on Realty Income Realty Income Company Profile (Free Report) Realty Income, The Monthly Dividend Company, is an S&P 500 company and member of the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats index. We invest in people and places to deliver dependable monthly dividends that increase over time. The company is structured as a real estate investment trust (REIT), and its monthly dividends are supported by the cash flow from over 15,450 real estate properties (including properties acquired in the Spirit merger in January 2024) primarily owned under long-term net lease agreements with commercial clients. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Realty Income Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Realty Income and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. XTX Topco Ltd boosted its stake in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM Free Report) by 480.0% during the first quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 35,946 shares of the semiconductor companys stock after purchasing an additional 29,748 shares during the quarter. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing comprises 0.3% of XTX Topco Ltds investment portfolio, making the stock its 26th biggest position. XTX Topco Ltds holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing were worth $5,967,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in TSM. City Holding Co. lifted its holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 238.0% in the 1st quarter. City Holding Co. now owns 169 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $28,000 after purchasing an additional 119 shares in the last quarter. Accredited Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in the 4th quarter valued at $31,000. Signature Resources Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 138.8% during the 1st quarter. Signature Resources Capital Management LLC now owns 191 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 111 shares during the period. Graybill Wealth Management LTD. purchased a new position in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing during the 1st quarter worth $33,000. Finally, Glass Jacobson Investment Advisors llc raised its holdings in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 289.4% during the 4th quarter. Glass Jacobson Investment Advisors llc now owns 183 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 136 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 16.51% of the companys stock. Get Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing alerts: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Stock Down 1.2% Shares of NYSE:TSM opened at $242.71 on Tuesday. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $218.46 and a 200 day moving average price of $194.90. The company has a current ratio of 2.39, a quick ratio of 2.18 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22. The company has a market capitalization of $1.26 trillion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.68, a PEG ratio of 1.18 and a beta of 1.29. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. has a 12-month low of $133.57 and a 12-month high of $248.28. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Cuts Dividend Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing ( NYSE:TSM Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 17th. The semiconductor company reported $2.47 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.13 by $0.34. The firm had revenue of $30.07 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $28.50 billion. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing had a return on equity of 34.53% and a net margin of 42.91%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 44.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.48 EPS. Sell-side analysts expect that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. will post 9.2 EPS for the current year. The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, October 9th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 16th will be given a dividend of $0.6499 per share. This represents a $2.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.07%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, September 16th. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings payout ratio is 28.16%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research firms have recently commented on TSM. Susquehanna set a $265.00 price target on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing and gave the stock a positive rating in a report on Monday, July 14th. Barclays reiterated an overweight rating and set a $240.00 price target (up previously from $215.00) on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Tuesday, June 3rd. Needham & Company LLC reiterated a buy rating and set a $270.00 price target on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, Citigroup reiterated a buy rating on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Thursday, May 22nd. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $258.33. Read Our Latest Research Report on TSM About Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (Free Report) Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, packages, tests, and sells integrated circuits and other semiconductor devices in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Japan, the United States, and internationally. It provides a range of wafer fabrication processes, including processes to manufacture complementary metal- oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic, mixed-signal, radio frequency, embedded memory, bipolar CMOS mixed-signal, and others. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TSM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. TCTC Holdings LLC grew its stake in Southern Company (The) (NYSE:SO Free Report) by 1.3% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 107,100 shares of the utilities providers stock after acquiring an additional 1,368 shares during the quarter. TCTC Holdings LLCs holdings in Southern were worth $9,848,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Miracle Mile Advisors LLC increased its stake in Southern by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. Miracle Mile Advisors LLC now owns 15,928 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,465,000 after purchasing an additional 110 shares in the last quarter. Keudell Morrison Wealth Management increased its stake in Southern by 1.1% during the 1st quarter. Keudell Morrison Wealth Management now owns 10,032 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $922,000 after purchasing an additional 110 shares in the last quarter. West Branch Capital LLC increased its stake in Southern by 23.0% during the 1st quarter. West Branch Capital LLC now owns 616 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $57,000 after purchasing an additional 115 shares in the last quarter. PFW Advisors LLC boosted its position in Southern by 1.9% during the 1st quarter. PFW Advisors LLC now owns 6,114 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $562,000 after acquiring an additional 116 shares during the last quarter. Finally, McGlone Suttner Wealth Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of Southern by 1.4% during the 1st quarter. McGlone Suttner Wealth Management Inc. now owns 8,565 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $788,000 after acquiring an additional 116 shares in the last quarter. 64.10% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Southern alerts: Southern Stock Down 1.1% SO opened at $94.30 on Tuesday. Southern Company has a 1-year low of $80.46 and a 1-year high of $96.44. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $90.97 and its 200 day simple moving average is $89.15. The company has a current ratio of 0.86, a quick ratio of 0.65 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.69. The stock has a market cap of $103.64 billion, a PE ratio of 22.51, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.30 and a beta of 0.38. Southern Announces Dividend Southern ( NYSE:SO Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The utilities provider reported $1.23 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.20 by $0.03. Southern had a return on equity of 12.70% and a net margin of 16.54%. The business had revenue of $7.78 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $7.17 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.03 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 17.0% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts expect that Southern Company will post 4.29 earnings per share for the current year. The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 8th. Investors of record on Monday, August 18th will be paid a $0.74 dividend. This represents a $2.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.14%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, August 18th. Southerns dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 70.64%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth SO has been the topic of a number of research reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on shares of Southern from $94.00 to $97.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 15th. BMO Capital Markets boosted their price objective on shares of Southern from $98.00 to $102.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 22nd. Evercore ISI boosted their price objective on shares of Southern from $90.00 to $94.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a research report on Friday, May 2nd. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price objective on shares of Southern from $95.00 to $99.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, May 2nd. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group raised shares of Southern from a hold rating to a buy rating and cut their price objective for the stock from $102.00 to $100.00 in a research report on Thursday, June 5th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, ten have issued a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $93.53. View Our Latest Analysis on Southern Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, CEO Kimberly S. Greene sold 13,158 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, July 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $95.00, for a total value of $1,250,010.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 93,661 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,897,795. This represents a 12.32% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.16% of the companys stock. Southern Profile (Free Report) The Southern Company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. The company also develops, constructs, acquires, owns, and manages power generation assets, including renewable energy projects and sells electricity in the wholesale market; and distributes natural gas in Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee, as well as provides gas marketing services, gas distribution operations, and gas pipeline investments operations. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Southern Company (The) (NYSE:SO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Southern Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Southern and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. TCTC Holdings LLC lessened its position in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report) by 2.5% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,314,711 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 34,179 shares during the period. Pfizer accounts for 1.2% of TCTC Holdings LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 22nd biggest position. TCTC Holdings LLCs holdings in Pfizer were worth $33,315,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in PFE. Brighton Jones LLC grew its holdings in Pfizer by 1,282.4% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 666,318 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $17,677,000 after acquiring an additional 618,117 shares during the last quarter. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC lifted its position in shares of Pfizer by 12.5% in the 4th quarter. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC now owns 18,766 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $498,000 after purchasing an additional 2,087 shares during the period. Everstar Asset Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Pfizer by 2.9% in the 4th quarter. Everstar Asset Management LLC now owns 20,793 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $552,000 after purchasing an additional 594 shares during the period. Partners in Financial Planning purchased a new stake in shares of Pfizer in the 4th quarter worth about $234,000. Finally, Skba Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Pfizer by 5.0% in the 4th quarter. Skba Capital Management LLC now owns 450,250 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $11,945,000 after purchasing an additional 21,400 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 68.36% of the companys stock. Get Pfizer alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research firms have recently commented on PFE. Redburn Atlantic dropped their target price on shares of Pfizer from $29.00 to $27.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. Jefferies Financial Group raised their target price on shares of Pfizer from $32.00 to $33.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 21st. Wolfe Research lifted their price target on shares of Pfizer from $22.00 to $23.00 and gave the company an underperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. UBS Group lifted their price target on shares of Pfizer from $24.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price target on shares of Pfizer from $25.00 to $27.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, thirteen have given a hold rating, six have assigned a buy rating and three have given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Pfizer presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $28.55. Pfizer Stock Down 1.9% Shares of Pfizer stock opened at $24.33 on Tuesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64, a quick ratio of 0.96 and a current ratio of 1.26. The stock has a market capitalization of $138.33 billion, a PE ratio of 17.63, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.90 and a beta of 0.58. Pfizer Inc. has a 52-week low of $20.92 and a 52-week high of $31.54. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $24.32 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $24.63. Pfizer (NYSE:PFE Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 29th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.92 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.67 by $0.25. Pfizer had a net margin of 12.62% and a return on equity of 20.33%. The firm had revenue of $13.72 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.43 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $0.82 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 7.8% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts anticipate that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.95 EPS for the current fiscal year. Pfizer Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Stockholders of record on Friday, July 25th will be paid a $0.43 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, July 25th. This represents a $1.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 7.07%. Pfizers dividend payout ratio is presently 124.64%. About Pfizer (Free Report) Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Texas Yale Capital Corp. lowered its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI South Korea ETF (NYSEARCA:EWY Free Report) by 58.4% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 5,145 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 7,235 shares during the quarter. Texas Yale Capital Corp.s holdings in iShares MSCI South Korea ETF were worth $278,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the business. Private Trust Co. NA grew its stake in iShares MSCI South Korea ETF by 325.3% in the 1st quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 706 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $38,000 after buying an additional 540 shares during the last quarter. Private Wealth Management Group LLC acquired a new position in iShares MSCI South Korea ETF in the 1st quarter valued at $39,000. Summit Securities Group LLC acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI South Korea ETF in the 4th quarter worth $41,000. Hara Capital LLC grew its position in iShares MSCI South Korea ETF by 75.5% in the 4th quarter. Hara Capital LLC now owns 930 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $47,000 after purchasing an additional 400 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Grove Bank & Trust acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI South Korea ETF in the 1st quarter worth $54,000. Institutional investors own 49.22% of the companys stock. Get iShares MSCI South Korea ETF alerts: iShares MSCI South Korea ETF Price Performance NYSEARCA EWY opened at $72.71 on Tuesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $5.10 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.35 and a beta of 1.05. The companys fifty day moving average is $68.21 and its two-hundred day moving average is $59.96. iShares MSCI South Korea ETF has a 52-week low of $48.49 and a 52-week high of $74.10. iShares MSCI South Korea ETF Company Profile iShares MSCI South Korea Capped ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the MSCI Korea 25/50 Index (the Index). The Index consists of stocks traded primarily on the Stock Market Division of the Korean Exchange. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI South Korea ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI South Korea ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Harvest Fund Management Co. Ltd increased its stake in Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST Free Report) by 44.2% in the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 34,509 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 10,575 shares during the quarter. Harvest Fund Management Co. Ltds holdings in Vistra were worth $4,053,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. HM Payson & Co. lifted its holdings in Vistra by 275.4% in the first quarter. HM Payson & Co. now owns 229 shares of the companys stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 168 shares during the period. Ameriflex Group Inc. acquired a new stake in Vistra in the 4th quarter valued at about $32,000. Opal Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Vistra in the 1st quarter valued at about $46,000. Golden State Wealth Management LLC lifted its holdings in Vistra by 2,540.0% in the 1st quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 396 shares of the companys stock valued at $47,000 after acquiring an additional 381 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Compagnie Lombard Odier SCmA lifted its holdings in Vistra by 53.9% in the 1st quarter. Compagnie Lombard Odier SCmA now owns 431 shares of the companys stock valued at $51,000 after acquiring an additional 151 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.88% of the companys stock. Get Vistra alerts: Insider Activity In other news, EVP Carrie Lee Kirby sold 108,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 19th. The stock was sold at an average price of $156.98, for a total value of $16,953,840.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 218,239 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $34,259,158.22. This represents a 33.10% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, EVP Scott A. Hudson sold 56,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, May 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $157.00, for a total value of $8,792,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 306,600 shares of the companys stock, valued at $48,136,200. This represents a 15.44% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders have sold 294,000 shares of company stock valued at $47,461,490. Insiders own 1.42% of the companys stock. Vistra Stock Up 2.0% Vistra Increases Dividend Shares of Vistra stock opened at $196.09 on Tuesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $66.54 billion, a P/E ratio of 30.83, a PEG ratio of 2.27 and a beta of 1.26. The company has a quick ratio of 0.77, a current ratio of 0.86 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.53. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $180.28 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $153.99. Vistra Corp. has a 12-month low of $66.50 and a 12-month high of $207.12. The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 30th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, June 18th were given a dividend of $0.225 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, June 18th. This represents a $0.90 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.46%. This is a boost from Vistras previous quarterly dividend of $0.22. Vistras dividend payout ratio is presently 14.15%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of brokerages have weighed in on VST. Evercore ISI set a $192.00 price target on shares of Vistra and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, May 15th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on Vistra from $178.00 to $186.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, June 18th. The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their price objective on Vistra from $134.00 to $164.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, May 23rd. Raymond James Financial initiated coverage on Vistra in a report on Friday, June 13th. They set a strong-buy rating and a $216.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, UBS Group boosted their price objective on Vistra from $207.00 to $230.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $178.69. View Our Latest Analysis on Vistra Vistra Profile (Free Report) Vistra Corp., together with its subsidiaries, operates as an integrated retail electricity and power generation company. The company operates through six segments: Retail, Texas, East, West, Sunset, and Asset Closure. It retails electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers across states in the United States and the District of Columbia. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding VST? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Vistra Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vistra and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Waterdrop (NYSE:WDH Free Report) from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report published on Saturday. Waterdrop Stock Down 7.2% Shares of NYSE:WDH opened at $1.89 on Friday. Waterdrop has a 52 week low of $0.97 and a 52 week high of $2.17. The stock has a market capitalization of $686.36 million, a P/E ratio of 12.62 and a beta of -0.30. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $1.47 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $1.35. Get Waterdrop alerts: Hedge Funds Weigh In On Waterdrop A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in WDH. Jane Street Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Waterdrop during the 4th quarter worth about $78,000. E Fund Management Hong Kong Co. Ltd. purchased a new position in shares of Waterdrop during the 2nd quarter worth about $372,000. Finally, Baader Bank Aktiengesellschaft boosted its position in Waterdrop by 28.6% in the 1st quarter. Baader Bank Aktiengesellschaft now owns 1,660,910 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,475,000 after buying an additional 369,325 shares during the period. 1.96% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. About Waterdrop Waterdrop Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides online insurance brokerage services to match and connect users with related insurance products underwritten by insurance companies in the People's Republic of China. The company offers short-term health and long-term health and life insurance products and services. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Waterdrop Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Waterdrop and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. XTX Topco Ltd grew its position in shares of Dynatrace, Inc. (NYSE:DT Free Report) by 1,563.7% during the first quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 98,721 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 92,787 shares during the quarter. XTX Topco Ltds holdings in Dynatrace were worth $4,655,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of DT. Dragoneer Investment Group LLC purchased a new position in Dynatrace during the 4th quarter worth $242,380,000. Alyeska Investment Group L.P. purchased a new position in Dynatrace during the 4th quarter worth $204,000,000. Norges Bank purchased a new position in Dynatrace during the 4th quarter worth $192,284,000. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC boosted its holdings in Dynatrace by 53.1% during the 4th quarter. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC now owns 3,895,262 shares of the companys stock worth $211,707,000 after acquiring an additional 1,350,794 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec purchased a new position in Dynatrace during the 4th quarter worth $51,731,000. 94.28% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Dynatrace alerts: Dynatrace Price Performance DT stock opened at $54.76 on Tuesday. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $54.24 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $52.46. The stock has a market cap of $16.52 billion, a PE ratio of 34.22, a P/E/G ratio of 4.73 and a beta of 0.91. Dynatrace, Inc. has a one year low of $39.30 and a one year high of $63.00. Insider Transactions at Dynatrace Dynatrace ( NYSE:DT Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 14th. The company reported $0.33 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.30 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $445.17 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $435.14 million. Dynatrace had a net margin of 28.47% and a return on equity of 9.08%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 16.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $0.30 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that Dynatrace, Inc. will post 0.68 EPS for the current fiscal year. In other Dynatrace news, EVP Dan Zugelder sold 15,824 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $54.52, for a total transaction of $862,724.48. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 17,242 shares in the company, valued at $940,033.84. This represents a 47.86% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. 0.57% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of research firms have issued reports on DT. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Dynatrace from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Sunday, June 29th. UBS Group boosted their price target on shares of Dynatrace from $50.00 to $55.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, May 15th. Loop Capital cut their price target on shares of Dynatrace from $55.00 to $44.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 23rd. The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their price target on shares of Dynatrace from $56.00 to $64.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, May 15th. Finally, Barclays boosted their price target on shares of Dynatrace from $55.00 to $62.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, May 15th. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, sixteen have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $62.35. Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Dynatrace Dynatrace Profile (Free Report) Dynatrace, Inc provides a security platform for multicloud environments in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, and Latin America. The company operates Dynatrace, a security platform, which provides application and microservices monitoring, runtime application security, infrastructure monitoring, log management and analytics, digital experience monitoring, digital business analytics, and cloud automation. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Dynatrace, Inc. (NYSE:DT Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Dynatrace Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dynatrace and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Douglas Luiz Situation Presents Familiar Financial Headache for Juventus Juventus are finding themselves in treacherous waters once again with another high-profile Brazilian midfielder. According to a detailed report from Gazzetta dello Sport, Douglas Luizs abrupt return to Continassa has reopened internal wounds at the club, both emotionally and financially. The former Aston Villa star, who has struggled for consistency and fitness since arriving in Turin, is now being likened to Arthur Melo a player who continues to be a costly burden on Juves balance sheet. Luizs Relationship with Juventus Reaches Breaking Point The 27-year-olds decision not to report to the pre-season gathering last Thursday came across as more than a protest. Far from merely pushing for a transfer, Luiz appeared to be acting out of spite, possibly in response to the treatment he feels he has received during a disappointing campaign in Italy. It paints the picture of a frustrated player who feels mismanaged and undervalued, echoing familiar themes from the final stages of Arthurs Juventus tenure. The implication is that off-field dynamics, rather than fitness alone, may have derailed Luizs progression in Serie A. Transfer Market Options Looking Complicated Juventus had hoped to recover a significant chunk of the 39 million they still hold against Luizs amortised transfer cost, potentially via a structured deal including a loan with an obligation to buy. However, the club now face a diminished negotiating position. Interest from Turkey is solidifying, with Gazzetta reporting that il ds del Fenerbahce, Devin Ozek, per iniziare una trattativa sulla base di un prestito con diritto di riscatto is expected in Italy. That type of deal would at best offer financial relief in the short term, not a lasting solution. Premier League clubs including Everton, West Ham, Nottingham Forest and even Manchester United have been linked. Financial History Repeating Itself For Juventus, this has alarming echoes of the Arthur situation. Initially valued at 72 million, Arthur became a serial loanee, failing to convince any club to make his stay permanent. With Douglas Luiz now at risk of joining that category, Juve face another cycle of loans, wage management, and potential devaluation. Our View EPL Index Analysis From an Evertonian perspective, this is one of those transfer stories that provokes curiosity rather than certainty. Douglas Luiz, on his day, was brilliant at Aston Villa. His physicality, composure on the ball and ability to dictate play made him one of the most dependable midfielders in the Premier League. But this Juventus spell? It has clearly gone south. Still, under David Moyes, who values graft, discipline and positional intelligence, Luiz could thrive. His frustrations at Juve, particularly being benched while fit, would likely not repeat at Goodison Park if his attitude aligns with the managers values. Evertons midfield lacks that mix of flair and control when things get scrappy, and Luiz offers that rare blend. The issue, as always, is financial. With Juventus reportedly looking for 40 million to recoup costs and Luiz earning 5 million net annually, its hard to see the Blues committing without a loan. But if Fenerbahce are allowed to test the waters with a loan plus option, why not Everton too? Even if its a season-long try-before-you-buy setup, its low risk and potentially high reward for a club needing technical quality. Would Moyes take the gamble? Possibly. Would it be welcomed by the fanbase? Absolutely especially if it means outmanoeuvring the likes of West Ham and Forest for a player who once bossed Premier League midfields with ease. XTX Topco Ltd increased its position in shares of Crh Plc (NYSE:CRH Free Report) by 905.0% during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 133,764 shares of the construction companys stock after acquiring an additional 120,454 shares during the quarter. CRH comprises approximately 0.6% of XTX Topco Ltds portfolio, making the stock its 4th biggest holding. XTX Topco Ltds holdings in CRH were worth $11,767,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise acquired a new position in shares of CRH during the 1st quarter valued at about $2,196,000. GSA Capital Partners LLP acquired a new position in CRH in the first quarter valued at about $744,000. Meeder Advisory Services Inc. lifted its position in CRH by 36.4% in the first quarter. Meeder Advisory Services Inc. now owns 7,936 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $698,000 after buying an additional 2,117 shares during the last quarter. Ramirez Asset Management Inc. acquired a new position in CRH in the first quarter valued at about $97,000. Finally, Picton Mahoney Asset Management lifted its position in CRH by 543.5% in the first quarter. Picton Mahoney Asset Management now owns 14,800 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,302,000 after buying an additional 12,500 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 62.50% of the companys stock. Get CRH alerts: CRH Stock Performance CRH stock opened at $98.72 on Tuesday. The companys 50 day moving average price is $93.16 and its 200 day moving average price is $94.74. Crh Plc has a fifty-two week low of $74.03 and a fifty-two week high of $110.97. The firm has a market capitalization of $66.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.92, a PEG ratio of 1.58 and a beta of 1.26. CRH Announces Dividend CRH ( NYSE:CRH Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Monday, May 5th. The construction company reported ($0.12) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.06) by ($0.06). The business had revenue of $6.76 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $6.77 billion. CRH had a net margin of 9.17% and a return on equity of 15.88%. Equities analysts forecast that Crh Plc will post 5.47 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, June 25th. Investors of record on Friday, May 23rd were issued a $0.37 dividend. This represents a $1.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.50%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, May 23rd. CRHs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 23.52%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research firms have commented on CRH. Loop Capital began coverage on shares of CRH in a research report on Wednesday, April 9th. They issued a buy rating and a $114.00 target price on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a neutral rating on shares of CRH in a research note on Tuesday, May 6th. Royal Bank Of Canada cut their price target on shares of CRH from $127.00 to $108.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, April 14th. Sanford C. Bernstein assumed coverage on shares of CRH in a research note on Tuesday, May 13th. They set an outperform rating and a $115.00 price target on the stock. Finally, Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating on shares of CRH in a research note on Wednesday, May 7th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $112.82. Read Our Latest Analysis on CRH About CRH (Free Report) CRH plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides building materials solutions in Ireland and internationally. It operates through four segments: Americas Materials Solutions, Americas Building Solutions, Europe Materials Solutions, and Europe Building Solutions. The company provides solutions for the construction and maintenance of public infrastructure and commercial and residential buildings; and produces and sells aggregates, cement, readymixed concrete, and asphalt, as well as provides paving and construction services. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CRH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Crh Plc (NYSE:CRH Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for CRH Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CRH and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Key Points The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF allows you to invest in some of America's top companies. The S&P 500 has historically averaged around 10% annual returns over the long term. This ETF's expense ratio of 0.03% is one of the very lowest in the stock market. 10 stocks we like better than Vanguard S&P 500 ETF From the outside looking in, investing in stocks can seem complicated. Some people think you need to spend hours researching companies or industries, but that's far from the case. Being an effective investor can be as easy as investing in a broad exchange-traded fund (ETF) and letting hundreds of companies do the heavy lifting. One ETF in particular that's a great option is the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (NYSEMKT: VOO). It mirrors the S&P 500 -- an index that tracks 500 of the largest American companies on the stock market -- and has shown it's an effective one-stop shop for investors. It doesn't require a lot of money to benefit from investing in VOO, either. A relatively small investment today could pay off huge in the future. Some of America's top companies are leading the way The S&P 500 is arguably the most important index in the stock market, mainly due to the companies it tracks. When you invest in an S&P 500 ETF, you know you're getting exposure to some of the world's best companies from across many industries. It includes tech giants like Apple, Microsoft, and Nvidia; finance giants like JP Morgan Chase, Visa, and Bank of America; consumer staples like Coca-Cola, Procter & Gamble, and PepsiCo; energy giants like Chevron, ExxonMobil, and ConocoPhillips; and hundreds of others. VOO is weighted by market cap, so larger companies account for more of the ETF and its performance than smaller companies. This has made it more tech-heavy than usual, but it still contains companies from all 11 major sectors: Information technology: 33.1% Financials: 13.9% Consumer discretionary: 10.4% Communication services: 9.8% Health care: 9.3% Industrials: 8.6% Consumer staples: 5.5% Utilities: 2.4% Real estate: 2.1% Energy: 3% Materials: 1.9% Given the number of companies, their diversification, and their influence, an investment in VOO can be viewed as banking on the growth of the U.S. economy. They aren't directly correlated, but they tend to move in the same direction over time. VOO has a history of proven results The S&P 500 has historically averaged around 10% annual returns. VOO was created in September 2010, and since then, it (and the S&P 500) has exceeded this average and had very impressive returns. Economist Therese Turner-Jones says more accessible financial reportinglike a simplified peoples budgetcould help Bahamians understand how taxes are used and why they matter. You voted: Spotify (SPOT) stock gained close to 2% on Thursday, July 24 after Oppenheimer upgraded the streaming giant to Outperform with an $800 price target, arguing the company has the longest runway among large-cap internet stocks despite trading 12% below all-time highs. www.barchart.com The firm forecasts that Spotify stock will add approximately 75 million net new users annually from 2026 to 2030, yet still reach only 17% of the global adult population by the end of the decade, significantly lower penetration than peers like Meta (META) and YouTube, suggesting that substantial growth potential remains untapped. More News from Barchart Oppenheimer identifies several catalysts driving the bullish outlook. The companys under-monetized free tier presents a massive opportunity, with analysts projecting 10 billion in potential advertising revenue by 2030 if Spotify closes the gap with traditional radio and podcast advertising rates. Alternatively, introducing a modest 1 monthly fee for the lowest tier could generate up to 12 billion in revenue. Recent App Store changes are expected to improve paid user conversion on iOS, while the upcoming Superfan tier launch and successful price increases, supported by low churn rates, are expected to provide additional revenue drivers. The firm expects gross margins to expand from approximately 31% currently to 37% by 2030, driven by the profitability of podcasts and effective cost control measures. The $800 price target reflects 20 times Oppenheimers 2030 earnings estimate, factoring in 20 billion in projected share buybacks while maintaining 17 billion in cash reserves, underscoring confidence in Spotifys long-term financial trajectory. Spotify Continues to Grow at a Steady Pace Spotify reported its second-highest first quarter for premium subscriber additions ever, reaching 268 million net subscribers, surpassing expectations and marking the strongest Q1 performance since 2020. The music streaming giants monthly active users grew to 678 million, while total revenue climbed 15% year-over-year to 4.2 billion on a constant currency basis. CEO Daniel Ek expressed optimism about the business fundamentals despite broader macro uncertainty, noting that engagement remains high and retention is strong. Spotifys freemium model provides flexibility for users during uncertain times. This tier contributed to the robust subscriber growth, which was driven primarily by emerging markets, particularly Latin America and the Asia Pacific. On the morning of June 19th, the 5th Membership Conference of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone was convened in Freetown. Counsellor Wang Peng attended the event, representatives from council member units including China Railway Seventh Group, Leone Rock Metal Group, OK Glogal Fisheries Company Limited, Huawei, China Civil Engineering Construction Company (SL) Limited, China Gansu International Economic and Technical Cooperation Co., Ltd and China Henan International Cooperation Group Co., Ltdalong with all member unit participated. Representatives from prospective member enterprises were also present as observers. The conference reviewed and adopted the Constitution of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone (Revised in June 2025) and conducted in-depth discussions on the Chambers future development plans. Counsellor Wang Peng outlined key requirements for the Chambers work: Heighten political awareness; Strengthen rule-based governance; Prioritize the Chambers four core functions; Enhance daily operations; Foster exemplary leadership; Promote solidarity and collaboration and Improve external communication efforts. By Rishika Sadam HYDERABAD (Reuters) -U.S.-based laboratory equipment maker Agilent Technologies plans to double its investments in India to expand in one of its fastest-growing markets, a top executive said. The company anticipates the Indian market to grow in the high teens and beyond, CEO Padraig McDonnell told Reuters, during the inauguration of its center in Hyderabad, a city in southern India. CEO McDonnell said the company plans to double its investments in India over the next three years, without specifying the amount, and added, "Before the end of the year, we're going to have new announcements about investments in India." Agilent generated revenue of $6.51 billion in the previous fiscal year, with the U.S. being its largest market. It produces laboratory equipment used in research, production and testing by pharmaceutical, chemical and food companies. "We're evenly split across markets, like one-third from the U.S., Europe and Asia," McDonnell said. However, he declined to provide details on India's contribution to total revenue, noting only that it is growing in double digits. The soaring demand for weight-loss drugs and drugmakers racing to develop their own versions is expected to boost demand for Agilent's services, McDonnell said. Indian drugmakers are working on developing cheaper versions of Novo Nordisk's blockbuster obesity drug Wegovy. Agilent has already observed such demand in other markets, and anticipates growth in its order book as more Indian pharmaceutical companies develop drugs for complex diseases, and work on cell and gene therapies, according to McDonnell. "All these spaces are very fast-growing markets. So we expect these drivers to continue to grow. And that's why we want to kind of invest ahead of the curve," he said, adding that India is expected to be a bigger growth driver of overall revenue in the coming years. (Reporting by Rishika Sadam; Editing by Vijay Kishore) The Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM-C) has allowed a second-year student, who was arrested earlier this month on charges of rape and is currently out on bail, to resume attending classes from Monday, an institute official said. The decision was taken at a meeting of the institutes academic council held on Friday (25 July), following a formal request from the student, Paramanand Mahaveer Toppannawar, 26, to continue his studies. Toppannawar, who was arrested on 12 July for allegedly raping a woman inside the IIM-C Lake View hostel, was released on bail last week. However, the council has denied his plea to return to hostel accommodation, citing the ongoing police investigation. Advertisement As the Lake View hostel is co-educational and the police probe is still underway, his request to resume staying there was not approved, the official said. Toppannawar will be allowed access to academic facilities, including the library, but a decision on whether he will be granted compensatory attendance for the classes missed during his incarcerationfrom 12 July to 22 Julywill be taken later, the official added. He has approximately eight months remaining in the two-year programme. Advertisement The academic council, chaired by acting director Saibal Chattopadhyay and comprising deans and senior faculty members, took the decision based on legal advice, the official said. The student was arrested after a woman, claiming to be a mental health counsellor unaffiliated with the institute, alleged that she was sexually assaulted by Toppannawar after he spiked her drink during a meeting in his hostel room on 11 July. However, in a twist to the case, police officials said the complainant failed to cooperate with investigators and did not respond to summons for further questioning. Her father later told reporters that she had been coerced into filing the complaint and that no such incident had occurred. The Kolkata Police Special Investigation Team (SIT) is continuing its probe. IIM Calcutta reiterated that it is cooperating with law enforcement and remains committed to ensuring campus safety. Abhishek Banerjee, national general secretary of Trinamul Congress again posted his pointers over the Pahalgam terror attack. He wrote this on the day when a couple of terrorists falling to security forces bullets. He posed on X: It has been over 55 DAYS since the PAHALGAM terror attack. It is deeply concerning that in a democracy neither the mainstream media, members of the opposition, nor the judiciary has stepped forward to raise these five critical questions before the Government of India. However, as a citizen committed to the nations well-being and as a public representative entrusted with accountability, I raise these five questions before the Government of India: Border Breach and Civilian Casualties: Advertisement 1. How did four terrorists manage to infiltrate the border and launch an attack that killed 26 innocent civilians? Where is the accountability for this massive breach in national security? Advertisement Intelligence Failure and IB Chiefs Extension: 2. If this was an intelligence failure, why was the Intelligence Bureau Chief granted a ONE YEAR EXTENSION, that too barely a month after the attack? Why was he REWARDED RATHER THAN HELD ACCOUNTABLE? WHAT IS THE COMPULSION? If the GoI can conveniently use PEGASUS spyware against opposition leaders (including me), journalists and even judges, what stops it from using the same tools against terrorist networks and suspects? Status of the Terrorists: 3. Where are the FOUR TERRORIST responsible for this brutal, religion-based massacre? ARE THEY DEAD OR ALIVE ? If they have been neutralized, why has the government failed to make a clear statement? And if they havent, WHY IS THE SILENCE? PoJK and the CEASEFIRE COMPROMISE: 4. When will India reclaim Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK)? Why hasnt the government officially responded to the U.S. Presidents claim that he persuaded India into a ceasefire with promises of trade Just as the nation stood together irrespective of their cast, creed religion and political affinity, celebrating the triumph of righteousness and saluting the valour and sacrifice of our armed forces? WHY WERE THE EMOTIONS OF 140 CRORE INDIANS DISREGARDED? What led to such a compromise? Global Diplomacy and Hypocrisy: 5. After reaching out to 33 COUNTRIES post-Pahalgam in the last one month, how many extended explicit support to India? If we are truly a VISHWAGURU and the worlds fourth-largest economy, why did the IMF and World Bank approve $1 BILLION and $40 BILLION in financial assistance and long-term investments to PAKISTAN IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE PAHALGAM ATTACK ? How did a nation repeatedly involved in cross-border terrorism not only escape global scrutiny but get rewarded ? And more shockingly: Why was Pakistan appointed Vice-Chair of the UN Security Councils Counter-Terrorism Committee barely a month later? NB: Over 2000000000000 (TWO LAKH CRORES) has been spent on external affairs over the past 10 years. The Indian public deserves transparency, accountability and results- NOT SILENCE AND SPIN! THE NATION AWAITS A RESPONSE! Punjabs war against drugs is taking a significant leap as the state government is set to roll out a pioneering drug prevention curriculum for students of Classes IX to XII in all government schools. This initiative marks the third phase of the ongoing Yudh Nashian De Virudh (War Against Drugs) campaign, announced Punjabs School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains. According to Bains, Aam Aadmi Partys National Convener Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann will launch the state-wide drug prevention curriculum on August 1 at Arniwala in Fazilka district. Advertisement Elaborating on the curriculum, the minister said the programme has been developed by J-PAL South Asia, an organisation led by Nobel Laureate Prof Abhijit Banerjee. The initiative aims to empower approximately eight lakh students across Classes IX to XII with prevention-focused skills to combat substance abuse. Advertisement The curriculum comprises 35-minute sessions, conducted every fortnight over 27 weeks. It includes engaging formats such as documentaries, quizzes, posters, and interactive activities. The content will focus on myth-busting, refusal strategies, and resistance to peer pressure, equipping students to make informed decisions. Bains added that the programme will be implemented across 3,658 schools and facilitated by more than 6,500 trained teachers. This comprehensive approach will ensure wide outreach and significant impact, providing Punjabs students with the tools to resist substance abuse. This initiative is grounded in evidence-based research and developed in collaboration with leading behavioural scientists. It has been evaluated through randomized trials conducted in 78 government schools across Amritsar and Tarn Taran during FY 202425. Covering 9,600 students, these trialsassessed by J-PAL South Asiarevealed encouraging outcomes. Notably, 90 per cent of students in the intervention group recognised the high risk of addiction from trying chitta even once, compared to only 69 per cent in the control group. Furthermore, belief in the myth that addiction can be overcome by willpower alone dropped from 50 per cent to 20 per cent. Highlighting the urgency and significance of this initiative, Bains said, Punjab becomes the first state in India to implement a state-wide, evidence-based drug prevention curriculum, reaffirming our belief that the battle against drugs begins in the classroom, not at the police station. The minister also shared details about the broader Yudh Nashian De Virudh campaign, which was launched in March this year. Under this initiative, the state government has taken stern action by arresting over 23,000 drug peddlers, confiscating more than 1,000 kilograms of heroin, and seizing properties acquired through illegal drug trade. These actions reflect the governments strong resolve to eliminate the drug menace and secure a safer, brighter future for Punjabs youth. Uttar Pradesh is set to become the first state in the country for an AIdriven roadsafety experiment. The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), Government of India, has issued a formal noobjection for the Uttar Pradesh Transport Departments ArtificialIntelligence (AI) and BigData Analyticsbased RoadSafety Pilot Project. This is the first AIdriven roadsafety experiment ever undertaken by a state transport department in the country. The pilot project will be implemented at zero cost (pro bono) by the publicsector enterprise ITI Limited in partnership with global technology firm mLogica. The UP government has already earmarked Rs 10 crore in its 202526 budget to establish a datadriven administrative model for the Transport Department, officials here said on Tuesday. Advertisement The Union Ministry, while giving the NoC has made it clear that the initiative must fully comply with the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, the Central Motor Vehicles Rules 1989, and all road safety eenforcement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and that it will entail no financial liability for MoRTH. Advertisement Officials said the initial proofofconcept, scheduled for six weeks, will integrate multisource dataaccident records, weather feeds, vehicle telematics, driver profiles, and roadway attributesto build AI models that pinpoint root causes of crashes, forecast black spots, and generate realtime policy dashboards. Upon successful completion, the same AI engine will be rolled outphase by phaseacross all core functions of the Transport Department, including faceless licensing and permits, modernised enforcement, revenue collection, eChallan operations and the VahanSarathi platforms, positioning Uttar Pradesh as a national leader in transport technology innovation. Building on the evidence generated during the pilot project, the AI analytics core will be embedded into other digital assets of the department. The wave will integrate the engine with the paperless licensing and permit ecosystem, allowing endtoend application processing, validation, and card production to run on selflearning decision models. Concurrently, the enforcement wing will deploy realtime fraud detection, vehicleposition mapping, and violationpropensity forecasting, giving field officers databacked triggers for onthespot action. This will connect this AI core to revenue administration, eChallan recovery, and the VahanSarathi registries, generating automated alerts and risk scores on tax dues, fee payments, and document validity. By fusing these datasets, the department will gain a single paneofglass viewcovering income flows, infractions, and credential statusthus sharpening policy design, resource allocation, and public transparency and positioning Uttar Pradesh as a national frontrunner in transporttech innovation. UP Transport Commissioner Brajesh Narain Singh said here on Tuesday that This initiative will place Uttar Pradesh at the forefront of datadriven governance. By integrating the AI model beyond road safety into every core function of the department, we aim to make our state a national trailblazer in technological innovation. The ITImLogica team has been authorised to begin work immediately in coordination with the Departments IT, Enforcement, and RoadSafety divisions. A comprehensive outcome report will be submitted to MoRTH at the end of the pilot project, while legal compliance, data privacy, and cybersecurity standards will be continuously audited. The project is expected to deliver a measurable reduction in roadcrash rates, heightened enforcement efficiency, and more transparent, faster, and safer transport services for citizens. Delhi Police have arrested a 22-year-old drug peddler and seized over 19 grams of a narcotic substance from his possession, officials said on Tuesday. The accused, identified as Lucky, was found in possession of 19.41 grams of smack, along with 765 in cash, police stated. Advertisement On Monday, at around 3:45 PM, the patrolling team was on its routine rounds when they noticed an individual behaving suspiciously in a park, handing over small packets to a boy in exchange for money, a senior police officer said. Advertisement He added, Upon spotting the police, the boy fled the scene, and the suspect, Lucky, attempted to escape but was apprehended by the alert patrolling team. Upon conducting a thorough search, officers recovered a white polythene packet containing 19.41 grams of smack from Luckys possession. He was immediately taken into custody, and a case under Section 21 of the NDPS Act has been registered at the Nand Nagri police station. Lucky is currently being questioned to gather further details, the officer said, adding that a deeper investigation is underway. Lucky, a resident of Delhis Nand Nagri, has a prior record of involvement in three cases under the NDPS and Delhi Excise Acts. The police are working to determine the extent of his involvement in the drug trade, the officer added. The family of a migrant labourer from Maldas Chanchal, expressing grave concern over the wellbeing of their detained relatives, filed a formal complaint at Chanchal police station on Monday against the Delhi Police. They have demanded the immediate release of Muqtar Khan, a daily wage earner, along with his wife, parents, and minor child. Advertisement The incident has sparked renewed outrage and unrest in Firozabad locality of Chanchal, from where the family hails. Advertisement The controversy escalated after chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday posted a video and images on her official X handle, purportedly showing Delhi Police personnel allegedly assaulting the migrant workers wife and infant child. In her post, the chief minister wrote: Atrocious! Terrible! See how Delhi Police brutally beat up a child and his mother, members of a migrant family from Maldas Chanchal. See how even a child is not spared from the cruelty of violence in the regime of linguistic terror unleashed by BJP in the country against Bengalis! Where are they taking our country now? According to the family, Muqtar Khan, along with his wife and child, were first detained by Delhi Police on Saturday on suspicion of being Bangladeshi nationals. His sister, Muqtari Khatun, alleged that her sister-in-law and the infant were subjected to custodial abuse before being released. The family claimed Muqtar subsequently posted images of the incident on social media, drawing the attention of the chief minister. However, following the viral post, the family members allege that Delhi Police again detained Muqtar Khan, his wife, and his parents on Sunday around 9 PM, in what they described as retaliatory action. As of Monday morning, they were reportedly still being held at the police station, with no formal explanation given. The Khan family, long-time residents of Delhi and originally from Firozabad in Chanchal, have been working there as daily wage labourers for several years. Police in Malda have confirmed receipt of the complaint, and the matter has sparked political and civil outrage across north Bengal. The much-awaited trailer of Avatar: Fire and Ash has been released, taking fans back to the breathtaking world of Pandora. Directed by James Cameron, this third chapter in the Avatar saga introduces fresh characters, new tribes, and darker conflicts than before. Advertisement Unlike The Way of Water (2022), which explored the calm and stunning underwater homes of the Metkayina clan, Fire and Ash shifts its focus to a more intense setting. The trailer reveals a dangerous new tribe, the Ash People, known for their fiery spirit and battle-ready nature. Advertisement Catch Avatar: Fire and Ash trailer here: They are led by the bold and mysterious Varang, played by Oona Chaplin. Viewers also get a brief but powerful scene where Varang clashes with Kiri (played by Sigourney Weaver), warning her, Your goddess has no dominion here. The tension between the tribes is clear, and its only the beginning. Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana return as Jake Sully and Neytiri. The couple is shown preparing for war, with Jake warning Neytiri of the possible price they might pay. Their adopted human son, Spider, is also between the two sides. One major moment in the trailer shows what looks like Jake being captured by human forces, hinting at a possible shift in the balance of power. Alongside Worthington, Saldana, and Weaver, the film brings back several familiar faces. They are Stephen Lang, Kate Winslet, Cliff Curtis, Britain Dalton, Jack Champion, Joel David Moore, Edie Falco, and Trinity Jo-Li Bliss. The script for Fire and Ash has been written by James Cameron, Rick Jaffa, and Amanda Silver. The movie is going to release in theatres on December 19, 2025. It will be available in six languages: English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada. Interestingly, the trailer had to be released earlier than expected due to an online leak. It was first shown to a private audience during CinemaCon back in April. Later they played it exclusively in theatres with the film The Fantastic Four: First Steps. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Fire and Ash is likely to be longer than The Way of Water. Cameron has ambitious plans, he has confirmed five Avatar movies in total. While Avatar 4 is releasing on 2029, the fifth and possibly final chapter is likely to release in 2031. This story was originally published on Cybersecurity Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Cybersecurity Dive newsletter. Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America on Friday disclosed a massive data breach affecting most of the firms 1.4 million U.S. customers, professionals and select employees. In a statement, the Minneapolis-based insurance provider said a hacker used social engineering to breach one of its cloud vendors on July 16 and steal most of its customers personally identifiable information. The company said it discovered the intrusion the next day. The breach was the result of a social engineering attack, according to the companys filing with the Maine Attorney Generals office. Allianz said it responded immediately after discovering the hack and notified the FBI. The disclosure follows a months-long international attack spree linked to the cybercrime collective Scattered Spider, which has used voice phishing techniques to target a range of industries, including insurance providers. Last week, Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance disclosed a massive breach. And in June, Aflac and Erie Insurance disclosed that they had fallen victim to cyberattacks. Allianz Life, a subsidiary of the German firm Allianz SE, said it had no evidence that the hacker had accessed the companys own computer networks, including its policy administration system. The companys filing with the Maine AGs office includes a placeholder copy of its breach notice, with the company promising to share a full copy of the letter once it identifies all of the affected customers. The ancestral homes of Bollywood legends Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor are getting a major facelift in Peshawar, Pakistan. After years of planning, the restoration work officially started this Monday. The aim? To bring these iconic homes back to life and honour the legacy of two of Indian cinemas greatest stars. Advertisement Located in the famous Qissa Khwani Bazaar in Peshawar, both houses are over a century old and rich in colonial-era charm. They are deeply connected to the early lives of Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar, who went on to become giants of Hindi cinema. Advertisement Now, these homes will soon become museums celebrating their journey and contributions to the world of films. Dr Abdus Samad, Director of Archaeology, shared that the project will take about two years to complete. It will cost around 70 million (Pakistani Rupees) and has full support from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government. The provinces Directorate of Archaeology and Museums will manage the project and ensure the structures are restored to their original design. This isnt just about repairing buildings, said Dr Samad. Its about protecting our cultural roots and celebrating the shared history of the subcontinent. He added that these museums will offer visitors a glimpse into the lives of Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor, their childhood memories, achievements, and cinematic milestones. The idea of turning these homes into heritage sites dates back to 2014 when former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif officially declared them national heritage properties. Since then, the government has been working on plans to restore and preserve them. Zahid Khan Shinwari, an advisor to the provincial government for tourism, spoke about the broader vision. He said the project is part of a larger push to promote heritage tourism in the region. With support from the World Bank, we are confident this will bring a major boost to tourism and create jobs for locals, he said. Both actors were pioneers of Indian cinema and helped define its golden era. Their performances, dedication, and storytelling left a lasting impact, not just in India but across borders. Bollywood star Kajol recently turned into every proud parent as she cheered loudly for her daughter, Nysa Devgn, during her graduation ceremony in Switzerland. A heartwarming video from the event has now gone viral on social media, showing Kajol clapping and shouting joyfully as Nysa walked up to receive her degree. Advertisement The video has won hearts online, not just for the special mother-daughter moment, but also for Kajols energetic support that reminded fans of her iconic role as Anjali from the hit film Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Advertisement In that film, Kajols character famously cheered for her son at a school function in a similar loud and lively manner. Nysa looked graceful in her graduation gown as she walked across the stage. In the background, Kajol could be heard shouting, Cmon baby! with all her heart. One user on X (formerly Twitter) shared the video and wrote, Congratulations Nysa!!! (In the chaos of 100s I can actually hear Kajols Cmon babyyyy!! So clearly). Another commented, This is so Anjali from K3G energy. Kajol and Ajay Devgn, one of Bollywoods most loved couples, got married in 1999. Nysa, their first child, was born on April 20, 2003. Their second child, Yug, was born on September 13, 2010. Even as she celebrates her daughters academic milestone, Kajol continues to shine in her career. She recently appeared in Sarzameen, directed by Kayoze Irani. The film tells a story about love, duty, and family. Kajol plays Meher, a strong-willed mother who will do anything to protect her loved ones. She stars alongside Prithviraj Sukumaran and Ibrahim Ali Khan, who plays a young man struggling to find his place in the world. Kajol is also stepping into a new role as a talk show host. She is teaming up with her longtime friend and author Twinkle Khanna for a show called Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle. Produced by Banijay Asia, the show promises bold, honest, and funny conversations with top Bollywood celebrities. It will stream soon on Prime Video. Raj Kundra is gearing up for something new, his big Punjabi film debut in Mehar, and ahead of the films release, co-star Geeta Basra has nothing but high praise for him. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Geeta spoke openly about what it was like working with Raj on the film and how impressed she was by his dedication. She revealed that Raj had truly given his all, both emotionally and physically, to bring the character of Karamjeet Singh to life. Advertisement You have quite literally given your blood and sweat for this role, Geeta wrote. The dedication you showed to play Karam I swear is commendable. And believe me, it will pay off! Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by Geeta Basra (@geetabasra) She went on to say something that might surprise many: The world will see a Raj that very few probably knew existed! Geeta added that this project marks what she considers Rajs real acting debut, even though hes known more widely for his business ventures and public life. Welcome to the movies officially! Thank you for being the best co-star, she added. On July 27, Raj Kundra also gave fans a glimpse into his character with the first look poster of Mehar. In his social media post, he described the experience of playing Karamjeet Singh as transformative and said the role helped him reconnect with Sikh values and his own roots. Its a journey Ill never forget, he wrote. Directed by Rakesh Mehta, Mehar comes with a strong supporting cast that includes Master Agamveer Singh, Baninder Bunny, Savita Bhatti, Rupinder Rupi, Deep Mandeep, Ashish Duggal, Hobby Dhaliwal, Tarsem Paul, and Kulvir Sony. The film comes in presentation of DB Digitainment and Raghu Khanna, and production of Divvya Bhatnagar and Raghu Khanna. Ashudeep Sharma has handled the cinematography. Ready to release in theatres on September 5, 2025, Mehar is already generating buzz, not just for its storyline, but also because audiences are curious to see a completely new side of Raj Kundra. This is not just a one-time acting gig either. Raj has two more Punjabi films in the works, both still untitled. According to reports, those projects will see him exploring different genres including action, comedy, and drama. For Geeta Basra, Mehar is a return to the big screen after a break. Actor and politician Pawan Kalyan has successfully completed the climax shoot for his much-awaited action film Ustaad Bhagat Singh. The film, directed by Shankar, is generating a lot of buzz as it marks another major release for the star who is also currently serving as the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. Advertisement On Tuesday, the films team took to social media to share a special update. They announced that the shooting for the films climax has officially wrapped up. The climax sequence was choreographed by renowned stunt master Naba Kanta, who is known for his high-energy fight scenes. Advertisement The makers praised Pawan Kalyan for his commitment to Ustaad Bhagat Singh despite his extremely tight political schedule. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mythri Movie Makers (@mythriofficial) They wrote, #UstaadBhagatSingh completes shooting for the climax. An electrifying climax, high on emotions and action, was wrapped up under the supervision of #NabaKanta master. Despite his cabinet meetings and responsibilities as the Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh, as well as his participation in Hari Hara Veera Mallu presentations, Power Star Pawan Kalyan Garu completed the shoot swiftly. This is a testament to his dedication and hardworking nature. Ustaad Bhagat Singh is among the most anticipated Telugu films of the year. With Shankar at the helm, the movie also features an impressive team behind the scenes. The music is composed by Devi Sri Prasad, who has been delivering one hit album after another. Ayananka Bose is in charge of the cinematography, while the films editing is being handled by Ujjwal Kulkarni. The screenplay is written by K. Dasharath, with additional writing support from C. Chandra Mohan. Pawan Kalyan last appeared in Hari Hara Veera Mallu, which released on July 24. That film featured Bobby Deol in a negative role and was directed by Jyothi Krishna. The screenplay was a combined effort by Radha Krishna Jagarlamudi, Sai Madhav Burra, and Abhimanyu Srivastava. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday inspected the proposed venue for Prime Minister Narendra Modis public meeting at Banauli village here scheduled for August 2. He directed officials to ensure that attendees face no inconvenience, stressing the timely completion of all arrangements, including drinking water, sanitation, ventilation, and other essential amenities. Special emphasis was laid on security measures and a smooth traffic management system in and around the venue. Advertisement The chief minister also instructed police officials to designate appropriate locations for the systematic parking of vehicles arriving for the program. Commissioner S Rajlingam briefed the Chief Minister on the planned arrangements using a detailed site map. Advertisement Present during the inspection were State Minister for Labour and Employment Coordination Anil Rajbhar, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for AYUSH and Food Security Dr. Dayashankar Mishra Dayalu, MLC Hansraj Vishwakarma, public representatives Dharmendra Singh, Dr. Awadhesh Singh, Sushil Singh, Commissioner S. Rajlingam, Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal, District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar, and other senior officials. Amid the ongoing Operation Sindoor debate in Parliament, senior Congress leader Manish Tewari, who was part of the Indian delegations sent abroad to counter Pakistans narrative, on Tuesday reacted to reports about why the party benched him and fellow MP Shashi Tharoor during the Lok Sabha discussions. Sharing a news headline that said Spoke in favour of govt: Why Congress benched Shashi Tharoor, Manish Tewari during Operation Sindoor debate, Tewari responded by quoting a patriotic song from the 1970 film Purab Aur Pachhim: Hai preet jahaan ki reet sada, main geet wahaan ke gaata hoon, Bharat ka rehne waala hoon, Bharat ki baat sunata hoon. Jai Hind. Advertisement When asked to explain his tweet, the Congress leader told reporters outside Parliament: There is a saying in English- If you dont understand my silences, you will never understand my words. Advertisement Both Tewari and Shashi Tharoor were part of the global delegations the government sent to over 30 countries to amplify Indias Operation Sindoor message and counter Pakistani propaganda. The government picked them without consulting Congress. The two MPs were also part of the G-23, a group of 23 Congress leaders who wrote to interim party president Sonia Gandhi in 2020, demanding a strong and active leadership and organisational overhaul. Since then, some G-23 members have left the party, a few have joined the BJP, and those who remain have largely been sidelined within the Congress. Tewari and Tharoor, once considered the blue-eyed boys of the Gandhi family, now appear distant from the leadership. Tharoor has openly admitted to having differences with the party high command. In recent months, his praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his governments policies has not gone down well with the party. Last month, when asked about Tharoor, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge remarked, For some, Modi comes first. For us, the country comes first. Some within the party believe Tharoor has already crossed the Laxman Rekha. The Kerala Congress unit has publicly stated that it will not cooperate with him, even as the central leadership mulls over his future in the party. When asked about his absence during the Operation Sindoor debate, Tharoors reply was cryptic but telling: Maunvrat a vow of silence. For a leader as outspoken as Tharoor, the big question now is: for how long? Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) founder Mukesh Sahani has announced that his party will contest 60 seats in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections and has staked a claim to the post of Deputy Chief Minister. He asserted that the VIP holds a decisive vote share across the state and will play a crucial role in determining the next government. In a post on X, Sahani declared: VIP will contest 60 seats in 2025, while candidates from our allied parties will contest the remaining seats. Advertisement Popularly known as the Son of Mallah, Sahani added: In 2025, our government will be formed. Tejashwi Yadav will be the next chief minister of Bihar, and the deputy chief minister will be a son of the Mallah from Bihars Extremely Backward Community. Advertisement During a media interaction, the VIP chief said that this demand is not new but part of the 12-point agenda unanimously approved by senior party leaders at the National Executive Meeting held in March. He stated: Those 12 agendas reflect our partys vision, organisational strength, and electoral strategy. Our leaders and workers have been actively working to implement them on the ground. Sahani reiterated that the VIP is an important constituent of the INDIA bloc and will contest the upcoming elections in alliance with other INDIA bloc partners. Our party leaders believe we should contest at least 25 per cent of the total Assembly seats in Bihar, which comes to around 60. We are confident of winning most of them. We have already demonstrated our strength when we contested independently, he said. However, he clarified that the seat-sharing arrangement is yet to be finalised. The final decision on seat-sharing within the INDIA bloc will be taken unanimously by the Coordination Committee, he added. Sahani also announced that 50 per cent of the VIP candidates will be from the Extremely Backward Classes (EBC), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Scheduled Tribes (STs). This decision reflects our commitment to social justice and inclusive politics. For communities that have been historically excluded from power, VIP is determined to provide leadership opportunities, he said. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday confirmed that three terrorists Suleman alias Faizal, Afghan and Jibran who were involved in the Pahalgam attack, were neutralised by security forces during Operation Mahadev near Dachigam National Park in Srinagar on July 28. In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, Shah told Lok Sabha during a debate on Operation Sindoor. Advertisement Shah further stated that all three were A-category terrorists of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. Advertisement Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated, he said. He further informed that people who used to supply food to these terrorists were detained earlier. Earlier on Monday, the Indian Army had said that the three heavily armed terrorists were killed in Operation Mahadev, a joint operation by the Chinar Corps of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF, launched in the Harwan area on the outskirts of Srinagar. #WATCH | Delhi | Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, NIA had already arrested those who gave them shelter. Those who fed them were detained. When the terrorists dead bodies reached Srinagar, they were identified as the three people who carried out the terror attack in pic.twitter.com/TqNlZWXlIU ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 However, their identities could not be confirmed, and the Jammu and Kashmir police stated that it would take some time. Shah told the House that the bodies were taken to Srinagar, where their associates who were detained earlier confirmed their identities., Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by those who were kept detained by our agencies, he said. Shah said that the rifles seized from the three terrorists matched the FSL report of the cartridges from the terror attack, which further confirmed their involvement in the Pahalgam attack. The FSL report of the cartridges from the terror attack was already ready Yesterday, the rifles of the three terrorists were seized and matched with the FSL reports Further tests were carried out in Chandigarh yesterday, after that it was confirmed that these three were those who carried out the terror attack, he added. While making the big announcement, the Home Minister also took a dig at the Opposition, saying, I was expecting that when they hear this news of killing of the Pahalgam terrorists, they will be happy, but instead they dont seem happy about it. Shah gave the credit for neutralising those who sent the terrorists to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I want to tell all families today that Modi ji neutralised those who sent the terrorists, and today our security forces killed those who committed the killings, he said. BJP Kerala President Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Tuesday stated that the two Keralite Catholic nuns arrested by the Chhattisgarh police on Friday were not involved in human trafficking or any attempt at forced religious conversion. Virtually rejecting Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sais statement justifying the police action, Chandrasekhar said there was a clear case of miscommunication and assured that the BJP would stand by the nuns until they receive justice. Advertisement It is now evident that neither religious conversion nor human trafficking took place. There was a miscommunication regarding the incident. We, the BJP, will stand with the nuns until they get justice. If necessary, I will personally travel to Chhattisgarh. I have already been in touch with the Home Minister there, Chandrasekhar told the media in Delhi. Advertisement He acknowledged that conversion is a serious issue in states like Chhattisgarh, but emphasized that no such activity was involved in this particular case. Chandrasekhar said Sister Preetha Mary and Sister Vandana Francis, hailing from Kannur and Angamaly respectively, were neither human traffickers nor proselytizers, as alleged by Bajrang Dal activists. He further clarified that Bajrang Dal does not operate under BJPs authority and is an independent organization. On Monday, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai had justified the police action, claiming there was an attempt to lure individuals into conversion through human trafficking. Meanwhile, anticipating political fallout, the Kerala BJP dispatched its State General Secretary Anoop Antony and Vice President Shone George to Chhattisgarh to assess the situation and offer legal assistance. Anoop Antony stated that in 9095% of incidents involving attacks on minorities, the Sangh Parivar has no direct connection. It is wrong to claim that these attacks are orchestrated by the BJP, he said. The two nuns Preetha Mary and Vandana Francis belong to the Assisi Sisters of Mary Immaculate under the Syro-Malabar Church. They were arrested at Durg railway station while accompanying three girls and charged with forced religious conversion and human trafficking. The Uttar Pradesh government is set to unveil the next phase of its ambitious initiative, the Mukhyamantri Yuva Udyam Vikas Abhiyan (CM YUVA), with a grand two-day Youth Conclave and Expo on July 30 and 31 here. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will inaugurate the event, which is designed to be a gateway to entrepreneurship for lakhs of youth across the state. Advertisement Bringing together franchises, financial institutions, industrial brands, policymakers, trainers, and investors on a single platform, the conclave will function as a one-stop business platformoffering end-to-end support from ideation to enterprise launch. Advertisement This is a revolutionary step towards empowering UPs youth with self-employment opportunities, said K Vijayendra Pandian, Commissioner and Director, Directorate of Industries and Enterprise Promotion here on Tuesday. Inspired by the vision of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the scheme has already seen over 6 lakh youth register. So far, 67,897 beneficiaries have received interest-free and collateral-free loans totalling Rs 2,751.82 crore. Educated youth aged 21 to 40 are eligible for loans of up to Rs 5 lakh, along with a 10 per cent capital grant. Following the Lucknow event, similar CM-YUVA conclaves and expos will be held at all 18 divisional headquarters, ensuring the campaigns reach extends to every district of the state. Each event will witness participation from thousands of youth, brands, banks, policymakers, and industry experts. Key Highlights of the Expo will showcase four Thematic Pavilions, 10,000+ Youth Participants, 100+ Brands, 500+ Machinery Suppliers, and 25+ Banks. The conclave will host panel discussions on key themes such as Business on Wheels, Franchise Ecosystem, Enterprise Building, and Scaling Startups into Brands. Successful entrepreneurs, bank representatives, and policymakers will provide practical guidance through interactive sessions. Participants will also have the opportunity for one-on-one networking. Letters of Consent and MoUs between banks, brands, and young entrepreneurs will be signed during the event, accelerating investment, mentorship, and training opportunities. The CM-YUVA initiative has emerged as a powerful tool for realising Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. The Yogi government aims not just to provide employment but to foster a culture of entrepreneurship, encouraging the rise of local enterprises, the development of new brands, and the creation of lakhs of jobs across Uttar Pradesh. International Business Machines (IBM) stock tumbled more than 7% on Thursday, July 24 following second-quarter earnings results that beat Wall Street expectations, prompting several analysts to view the decline as an overreaction and a compelling buying opportunity despite investor concerns about the consulting business and macro uncertainties. In Q2 2025, IBM reported revenue of $17 billion, above consensus estimates of $16.6 billion, while adjusted earnings per share stood at $2.80, above estimates of $2.64. However, software sales of $7.39 billion fell short of the $7.43 billion consensus, likely contributing to the stocks weakness despite the overall revenue beat. More News from Barchart www.barchart.com Analysts Remain Bullish on IBM Stock Melius Research analysts, led by Ben Reitzes, called the stock drop too severe, given IBMs positioning in what they see as a major mainframe cycle. The analysts highlighted momentum for IBMs new z17 mainframe system and noted benefits from currency tailwinds, as well as prospects for transaction processing to recover. We are buyers on weakness since IBM is still entering a big mainframe cycle, software is set to accelerate from here with help from Red Hat and Automation, the Melius team said, adding they see earnings upside in the coming years. The analysts view Red Hat as the business that is most important to IBMs long-term multiple, citing the hybrid cloud providers 16% growth acceleration in the quarter, up from 12% in the first quarter. They also expressed optimism about IBMs prospects in quantum computing and the potential for the z17 mainframe to drive organic growth above the companys 5% constant-currency target. Wedbush analysts led by Dan Ives maintained an Outperform rating and $325 price target, stating they would be buyers of any knee-jerk weakness. The firm believes IBM is well-positioned to capitalize on the current demand shift for hybrid and artificial-intelligence applications with more enterprises looking to implement AI for productivity gains. Even Bank of America, which lowered its price target from $320 to $310, reiterated its Buy rating on the stock. The analysts described IBM as a show me story on software performance in the second half while remaining bullish on overall company trajectory, expecting estimates to move higher with increasing contribution from high-margin software. The Opposition Congress on Tuesday walked out from the Madhya Pradesh Assembly on the second day of the ongoing Monsoon Session alleging attacks on public representatives, and registration of false cases against them. Leader of the Opposition Umang Singhar charged that attacks on MLAs were taking place across the state. He said the state government and police were not taking any action against the accused. Advertisement Singhar told Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who is also the home minister, that it is the state governments duty to safeguard the members of the House. He said if the government fails to provide security to MLAs, it will be held accountable. Advertisement The Opposition leader also claimed that false FIRs had also been registered against certain MLAs of the Congress. Meanwhile, the Speaker asked Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Jagdish Devda to present some information and details related to the state commercial taxes department. The Congress MLAs got enraged at that, and charged that the state government does not want to respond to even such an important matter. The Congress MLAs subsequently staged a walk out from the House. Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee President Ajay Rai, on Tuesday, sought an explanation from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on the attack on a professor at Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Rai posted on his Facebook page, stating that a senior BHU professor was assaulted with an iron rod, resulting in the fracture of both his hands. Advertisement He questioned, Just a few days ago, some BJP leaders were appointed members of BHU Executive Council and now attacks on teachers have begun within the campus. Has BHU been turned into a den of power-hungry goons and now longer remains an educational hub? The chief minister must answer are even teachers not safe now? Advertisement Notably, Rai had earlier opposed the inclusion of BJP MP (from Chandauli) Mahendra Nath Pandey and Mayor Ashok Tiwari in BHUs Executive Council. We will not allow Banaras Hindu University (BHU) to become an RSS stronghold, he had said. On his social media account, Rai had written, In prestigious international universities like BHU, RSS-affiliated leaders are being appointed instead of educationists. Mahendra Nath Pandey, Dilip Patel, and Ashok Tiwari, what credentials do they hold in education and research? There are thousands of qualified professors, scientists, and Padma-awarded scholars in the country. But the RSS only wants to promote its own leaders. We will not let BHU become an RSS outpost! Grand Mufti Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar has reiterated his claim that the death sentence of Malayali nurse Nimisha Priya, who is on death row in Yemen for the alleged murder of Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mahdi, has been revoked by the Houthi militia. The office of Kanthapuram Musliyar stated on Tuesday that it stands by its earlier announcement regarding the revocation of Nimisha Priyas death sentence. Advertisement An initial statement released by Kanthapurams office in Kozhikode on Monday claimed that her execution had been revoked, following a series of discussions involving scholars appointed by senior Yemeni Sufi cleric Sheikh Habib Omer bin Hafiz, representatives from Northern Yemen, and international diplomats. Advertisement However, a tweet from news agency ANI regarding the reprievewhich was shared by Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar on X (formerly Twitter)was later removed from his social media handle. Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday denied reports that the death sentence of Nimisha Priya had been officially revoked. Nimisha Priya, a native of Keralas Palakkad district, had moved to Yemen in 2008 seeking better prospects. She entered into a business partnership with a Yemeni citizen, Talal Abdo Mahdi, and together they ran a clinic in the capital city of Sanaa. The relationship deteriorated after Mahdi claimed to be her husband and reportedly subjected her to repeated abuse and assault. He also confiscated her passport, preventing her from returning to India. In 2017, desperate to return home, Nimisha Priya attempted to sedate Mahdi. However, he died from a suspected drug overdose. She was arrested in 2018 and sentenced to death by a Yemeni court in 2020. Her execution, initially scheduled for July 16, was postponed following the intervention of Grand Mufti Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar. In a strong message against drug abuse, the Himachal Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has reiterated its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on substance abuse. In a Cabinet meeting held here on Tuesday under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister, the Police, Social Justice and Empowerment, and Health Departments made detailed presentations on the steps being taken to combat drug abuse in the state. Advertisement The Chief Minister emphasized the urgent need for coordinated action to dismantle drug networks and prevent youth from falling into the trap of addiction. Advertisement The state government is fully committed to protecting the future of our young generation, he said. To strengthen preventive measures, the Cabinet approved mandatory dope testing for Chitta (a synthetic drug) during police recruitment. Additionally, all new government recruits will be required to submit an undertaking declaring that they do not consume Chitta. The Chief Minister also warned that strict action would be taken against any government employee found involved in drug-related activities. Officials informed the Cabinet that the drug abuse situation in Himachal Pradesh remains under control, with NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) cases accounting for only 9 percent of total criminal casessignificantly lower than Punjabs 20 percent. Under the current governments tenure, 45 drug-related cases have been registered, and properties worth 42.22 crore have been seizedmore than double the number of previous cases and a threefold increase in the value of attached assets. Additionally, 44 detention orders have been issued and successfully executed under the PIT-NDPS Act. The Health Department has been directed to intensify efforts in awareness, treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation. Integrated Rehabilitation Centres are already functional in Kullu, Hamirpur, Nurpur, and Una. A new project worth 14.95 crore will expand these services to every district headquarters under the State Action Plan, led by the Social Justice and Empowerment Department. The Chief Minister also called for active participation from Mahila Mandals, Yuvak Mandals, Panchayati Raj Institutions, civil society groups, and the Education Department to raise awareness about the ill effects of substance abuse. Stressing the need for a united front, he directed all departments to collaborate in this mission and emphasized regular monitoring of interstate borders to curb drug trafficking. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday told Lok Sabha that no world leader told India to stop Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, and that he clearly told US Vice President J D Vance during their May 9 phone call that the Indian armed forces will launch an even bigger attack in response to any Pakistani action. He, however, didnt name US President Donald Trump, who had claimed that his administration used trade to force India and Pakistan to agree to ceasefire. Advertisement No leader in the world told India to stop its operation, the PM said during the special 16-hour Operation Sindoor debate in the Lok Sabha. Advertisement He further stated: On the night of 9th May, the Vice President of America tried to talk to me. He tried for an hour, but I was in a meeting with my army, so I could not pick up his call. Later, I called him back. The Vice President of America told me on the phone that Pakistan is going to launch a big attack. My answer was that if Pakistan has this intention, it will cost them a lot. If Pakistan attacks, we will respond by launching a big attack. This was my answer. The Prime Minister also avoided answering how Trump was the first person to announce the ceasefire and not the Indian government. On May 10, the US president announced the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan in a social media post. It was only after his announcement India and Pakistan confirmed the development. While Pakistan thanked the US president for brokering peace between the neighbours, India didnt mention the US role and stressed that the cessation of firing was directly negotiated by the armies of the two countries. Earlier in the day, while intervening in the Operation Sindoor debate, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi dared PM Modi to call Trumo a liar. If he has the courage, he will say here that Donald Trump is a liar, the Congress leader said, adding 50% Indira Gandhi ka courage hai toh ye bol dega (He would say if he had even half the courage India Gandhi had). Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Northern Command, on Tuesday called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and briefed him on Operation Mahadev, during which three Pakistani terrorists involved in the Pahalgam terror attack were killed on Monday. He was accompanied by Lt Gen Prashant Srivastava, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 15 Corps. The Lieutenant Governor congratulated the Army, CRPF, and J&K Police on the success of Operation Mahadev. Advertisement This crucial operation, executed in the challenging Dachigam forest, resulted in the elimination of three Pakistani terrorists responsible for the heinous Pahalgam terror attack. Advertisement The GOC-in-C of the Northern Command informed that search operations had been continuing in South Kashmirs Dachigam forest areas for the past few months. There were persistent reports about terrorists hiding in this area. Based on specific intelligence inputs, special teams were recently activated, and a joint operation was launched by the Army, Jammu & Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force. With significant assistance from intelligence agencies, the three Pakistani terrorists were eliminated. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday accused the Modi government of lacking 100 percent political will as well as failing to provide freedom of operation to the armed forces when it decided to attack terrorist targets in PoK and Pakistan under Operation Sindoor. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the debate on Operation Sindoor, Gandhi also sought to corner the government on the issue of downing of Indian jets during the attack on Pakistan in May and said the pilots were told not to target Pakistani air defence systems. Advertisement You went into Pakistan, and you told our pilots not to attack their air defence. It was bound that the aircraft would be downed. You tied the hands of our pilots, he alleged. Advertisement He said the Modi government lacked 100 percent political will and it did not provide full freedom of operation to the armed forces when it decided to attack terrorist targets in PoK and Pakistan as part of its response to the Pahalgam attack in which terrorists targeted tourists at Baisaran Valley. I was listening to Rajnath Singh. I listen to people carefully. The Defence Minister said that Operation Sindoor began at 1:05 am and it lasted 22 minutes. Then he said the most shocking thing. He said that we called Pakistan at 1:35 am and told them that we do not want to escalate, and we targeted only non-military targets. Maybe he doesnt know what he revealed. You told Pakistanis what you will do Rahul said in the lower house of Parliament. The Government of India informed the Government of Pakistan that we have no political will, we dont want to fight. We have simply carried out this action. Surrender was demanded, an immediate surrender within 30 minutes, he added. On the issue of Indian jets lost in the attack on Pakistan, Gandhi said this happened because of the restrictions placed by the political leadership on not targeting military infrastructure in Pakistan during the first attack. Rajnath Singh also stated that they informed the Pakistanis that we would not target any of their military infrastructure. This is a very interesting fact. I spoke about freedom of manoeuvre, meaning giving the Air Force full operational freedom. Captain Shiv Kumar, Defence Attache in Indonesia, said, I may not agree with the claim that India lost so many aircraft, but I do agree that we did lose some. And that happened only because of the constraint placed by the political leadership, not to attack Pakistans military establishments or their air defence systems. In other words, we went into Pakistan, launched an attack, and told our pilots not to target their air defence systems, Gandhi told the Lok Sabha. He added, CDS Anil Chauhan said that what was important was not that the jets were downed, but why they were downed. He then asked, what mistakes were made? The good part, he said, was that we were able to understand the tactical mistakes, and remedy and rectify them. I want to tell CDS Anil Chauhan that the Indian Air Force made no mistake. The mistake was made by the political leadership, which said military targets could not be attacked. The Congress leader also hit out at External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Rajnath Singhs remarks that they had deterred Pakistan. Really? The man who did terrorism in India, Asim Munir, was invited by President (Donald) Trump to the White House, where even Prime Minister Modi cannot go. President Trump said that the reason he (Asim Munir) is because I wanted to thank him. Thank him for what? For spreading terrorism I want to ask the EAM on which planet you are sitting? Please come down During the debate on Operation Sindoor in Lok Sabha, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the Narendra Modi-led NDA government over the Pahalgam attack and asked how it happened. Acknowledging yesterdays hour-long speech of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the House, Priyanka stated that while the defence minister discussed several a lot, including history lessons, he left out one key thing How did the April 22 Pahalgam attack happen? Advertisement The Defence Minister gave a long one-hour speech, and as I listened, one thing kept troubling me Everything was discussed- Operation Sindoor, terrorism, national security, and even lessons from history. But one thing was left out. On April 22, 2025, when 26 citizens were killed in front of their families in broad daylight, how did this attack happen? And why did it happen? the Congress MP said in Lok Sabha. Advertisement Priyanka cornered the government over the security lapse, asking why there was no security personnel present at the Baisaran Valley in Pahalgam where the attack took place. Why was not even one security personnel present there (Baisaran Valley, Pahalgam)?.. Is the safety and security of the citizens not the responsibility of the Prime Minister, Home Minister, and Defence Minister?, she asked. The Wayanad MP said that the government cant hide behind this truth, no matter how many operations it conducts. Most of the people who are sitting in this House today have a security coverBut on that day in Pahalgam, 26 people were killed in front of their families. All those people who were present in Baisaran Valley on that day did not have any security. No matter how many operations you conduct, you cannot hide behind the truth, she remarked. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the Lok Sabha during the special Operation Sindoor debate, where he presented Indias side before the House. He termed the Pahalgam terrorist attack as the height of cruelty and a well thought-out attempt to incite violence and spread riots in India. The cruel incident that happened in Pahalgam on 22nd April, the way terrorists shot innocent people after asking them about their religion, was the height of cruelty. This was a well-thought-out attempt to throw India into the fire of violence. This was a conspiracy to spread riots in India. Today I thank the countrymen that the country foiled that conspiracy with unity, Modi said in the Lok Sabha. Advertisement The Prime Minister stated that when the attack took place on April 22, he was abroad. However, he returned home immediately and called a meeting where he gave clear instructions that a befitting reply must be given to terrorism. Advertisement I was abroad on 22nd April. I returned immediately. And immediately after coming back, I called a meeting and we gave clear instructions that a befitting reply has to be given to terrorism and this is our national resolve. The army was given a free hand to act. And it was also said that the army should decide when, where, how and in what manner. All these things were clearly said in that meeting, Modi said. India will not see a terror-supporting government and terror masterminds as two separate entities Sending out a clear message to Pakistan, the Prime Minister said that India will respond if there is a terrorist attack in the country and that it will not see terrorist-supporting governments and terror masterminds as two separate entities. Operation Sindoor makes it clear that India has decided on 3 points. 1) If there is a terrorist attack on India, we will respond in our own method, on our conditions, and on our own time. 2) No nuclear blackmail would work now. 3) We will not see terrorist-supporting governments and terror masterminds as two separate entities, the PM Modi. Armed forces were given free hand Amid criticism over alleged political constraints during Operation Sindoor, PM Modi stressed the Armed Forces were given free hand. They were told to decide the when, where, and howWe are proud that terrorists were punished, and it was such a punishment that the terrorist masterminds have sleepless nights even to this day, he said. Earlier in the day, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, had accused the Modi government of lacking 100 percent political will as well as failing to provide freedom of operation to the armed forces during Operation Sindoor. You went into Pakistan, and you told our pilots not to attack their air defence. It was bound that the aircraft would be downed. You tied the hands of our pilots, he alleged. Hailing the Armed Forces for the successful operation, Modi said that the April 22 (Pahalgam attack) was avenged in 22 minutes. Right after the Pahalgam terrorist attack, Pakistan Forces had this idea that India would indeed take a major action. They started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of 6-7 May, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything. Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks, the PM said in the house. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held a high-level meeting with MPs, MLAs, and MLCs of Prayagraj and Vindhyachal divisions on Tuesday, as part of the ongoing Mandal-wise Janpratinidhi Samvad series. Aimed at driving holistic development, the meeting focused on reviewing schemes, understanding regional challenges, and aligning priorities with public expectations. The Chief Minister interacted with each representative to gain ground-level insights and ensure timely and effective solutions. Advertisement The Chief Minister said that the government is prioritising the development of Prayagraj and Vindhyachal, which are key centres of Uttar Pradeshs historical, cultural, and spiritual identity. Their revival and integrated development will serve as a catalyst for the states overall progress, he added. During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on the proposals submitted by public representatives. Advertisement The Chief Minister directed the Public Works Department to categorise and prioritise these proposals constituency-wise. Both the PWD and the Charitable Works Department were instructed to coordinate with public representatives, ensure the timely execution of the proposed works, and maintain transparency and quality at every step. The proposed works covered a wide range of infrastructure needs, including connectivity to block headquarters, interlinking roads, access routes to religious sites, logistics hubs, bypasses, ROBs/underpasses, flyovers, major and minor bridges, road safety upgrades, irrigation infrastructure, and pontoon bridges. These projects aim to connect geographically challenging areas and stimulate local economic growth. The Chief Minister directed the Urban Development Department to seek input from local public representatives before drafting any project proposals. He also instructed that the names of the concerned public representatives be displayed on stone plaques at the project sites. Additionally, CM Yogi emphasised that priority proposals must be acted upon promptly, so that Bhoomi Pujan and foundation stone-laying ceremonies for these projects can begin after September 15. The Chief Minister emphasised that the experience and local understanding of public representatives serve as a valuable guide for the government. He stressed the importance of timely, on-ground implementation of schemes with clear accountability, proper use of technology, and uncompromising quality. Public representatives were urged to actively monitor the progress of proposed works in their areas and ensure that projects reflect local public sentiment. Addressing the representatives, CM Yogi said their development proposals allow them to directly contribute to the shaping of key projects. While reviewing tourism-related proposals, he noted the significant progress made in Prayagraj and directed that similar quality-driven works be carried out in other regions. Under the Chief Minister Tourism Promotion Scheme, proposals submitted by public representatives should be prioritised to ensure basic facilities are developed at important tourist destinations, he said. Asara Resources has secured firm commitments to raise A$25m ($16.4m) through an institutional placement of new fully paid ordinary shares to fund its exploration activities at the Kada gold project in eastern Guinea, West Africa. The placement involves the issuance of 500 million new shares at A$0.05 each. It saw strong support from both existing institutional shareholders and new investors from Australia and internationally. The first tranche of the placement will raise approximately A$13.76m through the issuance of 275.2 million new shares and is expected to settle by 1 August 2025. The second tranche, pending shareholder approval, aims to raise an additional A$11.24m by issuing 224.7 million new shares. Asara CEO Matthew Sharples said: We are delighted with the results of the placement and are pleased to welcome new investors to the share register. The strong demand from high-quality institutional investors reflects the significant growth potential of the Kada gold project and demonstrates a strong vote of confidence in the Asara team and our strategy to expand our land package and our systematic and structured exploration programme aimed at significantly growing the current mineral resource at Kada. This raising ensures that the company is well positioned for the next 1218 months of exploration, and I am looking forward to updating the market as exploration at Kada progresses. Proceeds from the placement will be used for exploration activities. These activities will encompass resource extension and infill drilling at the Massan site, as well as reverse circulation and auger drilling operations at the newly acquired Talico and Banan licences. Comprehensive mapping, trenching and geophysical surveys are also planned across the entire project area. Additionally, the investment will support enhancements to the exploration camp, cover transaction-related expenses and bolster the company's general working capital. Canaccord Genuity (Australia) and Argonaut Securities were joint lead managers and bookrunners, with Tamesis Partners being co-manager for the placement. "Asara Resources secures $16m for Guinea gold project" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Tuesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the state projects based on Modis vision. The Chief Minister called on Prime Minister Modi at the latters office in Parliament complex here. Advertisement Sharma briefed the Prime Minister on the development centric initiatives, projects based on Modis vision- being worked on by the Rajasthan government. Advertisement Our double engine BJP government in the state has been working hard to transform Rajasthan as an ideal state where all strata of society the farmers, women, youth, poor and deprived ones are getting their due (justice) and also avenues for elevating themselves for better life, Sharma told the Prime Minister. He also lauded Modis visionary leadership at national and the international level during the latters 11 year long regime that enabled India to make new strides in different arenas and establish herself as one of the leading power (nation) in the world. CM Sharma said that PM Modi expressed satisfaction over the performance of the state government and also assured of more help and cooperation from the Centre to Rajasthan. The just concluded trade deal between the United States and the European Union marks a significant moment in the on-going realignment of global commerce. While the agreement avoids the steep escalation of a trade war, it reflects a broader shift in how economic diplomacy is being conducted ~ less multilateral, more transactional, and increasingly dominated by top-level political personalities. At the centre of this deal is a 15 per cent blanket tariff imposed by the US on European imports, a notable reduction from the earlier threat of 30 per cent. For Europe, that climbdown stings but it also offers relief. Key sectors like pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, aircraft parts, and certain agricultural products have either been spared or granted preferential treatment, preventing a broader economic shock across the continent. In return, the EU has agreed to sweeping concessions zero-tariff access for selected US goods, significant commitments to purchase American energy, and large-scale investments in the US infrastructure sector and increased European defence purchases from America. Advertisement These moves underline Europes pragmatic decision to sidestep confrontation at a time when its own economic recovery remains fragile and its security still tied to transatlantic defence arrangements. Strategically, the US has once again used tariff pressure as leverage to extract market access and investment commitments. This aggressive style of economic statecraft ~ rooted in the belief that trade deficits are strategic liabilities ~ has redefined the negotiating environment for Americas trading partners. Traditional rules-based systems are giving way to high-stakes bilateral bargaining, often concluded not by bureaucrats but by heads of state. What makes this deal particularly consequential is its timing and broader ripple effects. Advertisement As the US heads into crucial trade talks with China, the successful conclusion of the EU negotiations strengthens Washingtons hand. The message is clear: other partners have yielded to American pressure and avoided harsher terms by cooperating. The question now is whether Beijing, which has so far remained less flexible, will follow suit or choose confrontation. Europe, for its part, has avoided economic chaos but must now grapple with the precedent set. Agreeing to higher tariffs and larger purchases to maintain favour may stabilise short-term relations, but it exposes vulnerability in long-term negotiating strength ~ particularly when future demands arrive with similar urgency. Still, both sides have something to claim. The US can point to a reduction in its trade deficit and a promised surge in domestic investment. The EU can cite stability, limited sectoral damage, and averted escalation. This deal may not remake global trade, but it clearly reflects the direction it is heading ~ more unpredictable, more personalised, and more rooted in leverage than in rules. The post-war consensus around free trade and shared prosperity is yielding to a new order: one where economic might is not just a tool of growth, but a blunt instrument of negotiation. The leadership of the Baloch Womens Forum strongly denounced efforts to disrupt what they termed a peaceful conference in Gwadar, the unlawful detention of women, and the suppression of political activities during a press briefing at Turbat Press Club on Sunday, as reported by The Balochistan Post (TBP). Forum representatives stated that a one-day conference was planned at the Gwadar Press Club on July 27 to discuss Baloch political participation, enforced disappearances, arrests, and state oppression. To prepare for this event, awareness campaigns, wall chalking, and public outreach were being conducted in Gwadar and the surrounding regions. However, institutions reportedly imposed barriers to hinder this constitutional event, as highlighted by the TBP report. They indicated that female activists from the forum were arrested by police without any lawful grounds and taken to the Womens police station in Gwadar, where they allegedly experienced inhumane and unprofessional treatment, along with insults. The press conference revealed that during their detention, activists faced pressure to cancel the conference, and when they refused, they were forcefully moved from Gwadar to Turbat, which the forum described as a serious infringement of civil liberties. Forum leaders expressed that each time Baloch women assert their rights with political awareness, attempts are made to silence them through informal powers and hidden regulations, as stated by TBP. The Baloch Womens Forum emphasised that the July 27 conference aimed to engage in democratic and intellectual discussions regarding Baloch political participation; however, state oppression has once again demonstrated that democracy in Balochistan is exclusive to the elite. Advertisement The press conference also mentioned that the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, the National Democratic Party, and other civil organisations are currently enduring a harsh state crackdown, with their activists being detained without warrants and their political endeavours being labelled as unlawful under the guise of national security. The Baloch Womens Forum affirmed that their struggle is constitutional, democratic, and a continuation of the historical Baloch resistance. We will not yield to this oppression but will persist with our efforts in a more coordinated and organised fashion, they proclaimed, as quoted by the TBP report. Advertisement The forum urged the state to grant the Baloch people their fundamental human, political, and social rights, and to acknowledge their civil status. They also called on international press bodies and human rights organisations to pay attention to the ongoing oppression occurring in Balochistan. The Baloch Womens Forum reiterated that they would not forsake their constitutional struggle and Baloch interests under any circumstances, and they plan to intensify their efforts further, as reported by TBP. Leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), Sammi Deen Baloch, has condemned social media influencers and self-identified journalists for reportedly targeting Baloch families who have been peacefully protesting in Islamabad for twelve consecutive days, as stated in a report by The Balochistan Post (TBP). Commenting on the ongoing demonstrations by Baloch mothers and sisters in the capital, Sammi Baloch indicated that while mainstream media and credible journalists have remained entirely silent regarding the protests, certain social media influencers and self-proclaimed journalists who seemingly lack an understanding of media ethics and fundamental journalism principles are harassing protesters by forcing them to be recorded in pursuit of views and followers. She characterised this behaviour as not only unethical but also a perilous form of profiling, surveillance, harassment, and the propagation of state propaganda, asserting that these individuals are compromising their integrity in their attempts to expose others, as highlighted by the TBP report. Advertisement The BYC leader argued that the videos produced by these individuals featuring Baloch protesters, students, and women without their consent represent a blatant violation of their rights to privacy and protection. She emphasised that a core tenet of journalism is to treat individuals affected or engaged in protests with dignity, empathy, and confidentiality, rather than coercing them in front of cameras and subjecting them to further harassment. Advertisement She stated that those involved in propaganda against vulnerable mothers and children who have come to Islamabad seeking justice, be they influencers, digital media groups, TikTokers, or YouTubers, are ridiculing their suffering, harassing them, and bolstering state propaganda against their peaceful demonstrations, as revealed by the TBP report. She regarded this as a violation of humanity and ethics, equating it to adding insult to injury. Furthermore, Sammi Deen Baloch noted that the origins and control of such media influencers are well-known, asserting that no aware and informed individual would buy into their propaganda, as cited in the TBP report As part of measures to place pressure on Israel over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the Netherlands has banned far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir from entering the country, as per reports. In a letter to Netherlands lawmakers, the Netherlands Foreign Minister Caspar Valdekamp said the decision that has been taken against Smotrich and Ben Gvir is because they have repeatedly incited violence by settlers against the Palestinian population and called for ethnic cleansing in the Gaza Strip, The Times of Israel reported, citing local newspaper Algemeen Dagblad. Advertisement Reacting to the decision, Ben Gvir, in a post on X, said: Even if Im banned from all of Europe, Ill keep working for our country and demanding that we topple Hamas and back our fighters. Our enemies are violent, murderous rapists. But in Europe the one who goes on the offensive is guilty. In a place where terrorism is tolerated and terrorists are welcome, a Jewish minister from Israel is unwelcome. Terrorists are free and Jews are boycotted. Advertisement The decision to ban Ben Gvir and Smotrich from entering the Netherlands comes a day after the Netherlands Prime Minister Dick Schoof said that his government was considering taking national measures against Israel, apart from supporting a European Union proposal to partially suspend funding for Israeli researchers. Last week, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced that the military will carry out a local tactical pause of military activity in densely populated areas of the Gaza Strip, starting from 10 a.m. (local time) to 8 p.m. (local time). The military said that the pause will be implemented every day until further notice in areas where the IDF is not currently carrying out operations with ground troops, including Deir al-Balah, al-Mawasi and Gaza City. According to the military, the decision has been taken in accordance with directives from the political echelon, and as part of the IDFs ongoing effort, led by COGAT, to increase the scope of humanitarian aid entering the Gaza Strip. The Israeli military said that the decision was coordinated with the UN and international organisations following discussions regarding the matter. In addition, the IDF said secure routes will be designated from 6 a.m. (local time) to 11 p.m. (local time) to enable the safe passage of United Nations and humanitarian aid organisation convoys delivering and distributing food and medicine among the people in the Gaza Strip. Paank, the human rights department of the Baloch National Movement (BNM), in its latest report, has strongly urged the European Union to reassess Pakistans GSP+ status, which provides special trade benefits to Pakistan. Paank mentioned in its report, the European Union to reassess Pakistans GSP+ status, which provides special trade benefits despite Pakistans blatant disregard for human rights in Balochistan. It is unacceptable for Pakistan to enjoy economic advantages while carrying out such cruel repression. It also strongly condemned the Anti-Terrorism (Balochistan Amendment) Bill 2025, which gives unchecked powers to military, police, and intelligence agencies to detain anyone on mere suspicion for up to three months, with the possibility of extension. Paank, in its report, brought to attention how several Baloch leaders such as Mahrang Baloch, Gulzadi Baloch, Beebow Baloch, Sibghat Ullah Baloch, and Beeberg Baloch are still behind bars, even after appearing before the court. Instead of being released, they were handed over to the police on a 10-day physical remand under newly fabricated terrorism charges. This move appears to be a clear tactic by the authorities to silence peaceful activists and leaders, and to keep them locked up without fair trial or evidence. These individuals have been raising their voices peacefully for justice and human rights in Balochistan punishing them under false cases is a serious violation of justice and democratic rights. Paank highlighted in its report that, In June 2025 alone, there were 84 cases of enforced disappearances and 33 cases of extrajudicial killings. Many of those abducted were later found mutilated, tortured, or simply dumped in remote areas. These are not just numbers they are fathers, sons, students, poets, and community leaders. Paank also urged Western governments and international human rights organisations to document and include these abuses in their annual country reports and raise these concerns in diplomatic engagements. Advertisement Advertisement US President Donald Trump met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland, where both agreed that urgent action is needed to bring an end to the suffering in Gaza, according to a statement from the British government. They reiterated their calls for an immediate ceasefire to pave the way for peace in the region, the statement said. Advertisement A day after Israel eased aid restrictions due to a worsening humanitarian crisis, Trump expressed disagreement on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus statement that there is no starvation in Gaza, Xinhua news agency reported. Advertisement When asked whether he agreed with Netanyahus remarks about hunger in Gaza before a meeting with Starmer, Trump said, Based on television, I would say not particularly because those children look very hungry. At a press conference later, Trump said, Some of those kids are, thats real starvation stuff. I see it, and you cant fake that. Trump also noted that Israel should ensure aid would be delivered. I want them to make sure they get the food, every ounce of food, he said, adding that the aid food is not being delivered, or at least all of it. Starmer said the situation in Gaza is absolutely intolerable and seeing the images of starving children is revolting. Israel on Sunday announced a pause in military operations in certain areas for 10 hours daily to improve aid flow. Alongside the measures, military operations continued. Israel had no immediate comment about the latest strikes, which occurred outside the declared time frame for the pause between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. This story was originally published on Retail Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Retail Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: As The Brand House Collective prepares to open a new Bed Bath & Beyond Home store Aug. 8 in Nashville, Tennessee, the retailer is bringing back an iconic aspect of its history. The retailer will honor the use of old Bed Bath & Beyond coupons at the new location and provide new coupons to customers, per the release. The first 25 customers who make a purchase will receive a 10-inch memory foam queen-size mattress called The Beyond Bed. Dive Insight: Bed Bath & Beyond's brick-and-mortar presence returns next month with an appeal to former customers. "We're proud to reintroduce one of retail's most iconic names with the launch of Bed Bath & Beyond Home, beautifully reimagined for how families gather at home today," Amy Sullivan, CEO of The Brand House Collective, said in a statement. "This isn't just a store, it's a fresh start for a brand that means something special to so many families. Additionally, The Brand House Collective released an SEC filing on Monday noting that shareholders on Thursday approved to declassify the board of directors and move to an annual directors election going forward. Kirklands deepened its connection to Beyond Inc. and announced its rebrand as The Brand House Collective in June, aiming for an operational reset after slumping performance. The news follows months of growing its complex financial relationship with the owner of Bed Bath & Beyond, Overstock and BuyBuy Baby. The Brand House Collective is tasked with converting Kirklands Home stores to Bed Bath & Beyond Home stores, with the company in June stating around 290 Kirklands locations would serve as the foundational footprint for Kirklands Home, Bed Bath & Beyond Home, and Overstock. Beyond acquired Kirklands IP for $5 million (with plans to license it back) in May after beginning a strategic partnership in October when Beyond provided Kirklands with $17 million in debt financing. While The Brand House collective is focused on retail, Beyond is ingraining itself deeper into the world of digital assets. The company began describing itself as the owner of a blockchain asset portfolio in press releases earlier this year. Over the past few months, Beyond (through two different subsidiaries) has debuted crowdfunded offerings of digital tokens connected to certain IP for the BuyBuy Baby and Overstock banners via the tZero brokerage platform operated by tZero Securities, according to company press releases. In both cases, Beyond met its minimum target offering of $250,000 early, per separate press releases from last week and May. Indias most valued eyewear retailer Lenskart looks to raise 2,150 crore through its initial public offering, according to the draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) filed with Sebi on Monday. In its preliminary application for an IPO, the eyewear brand stated that, apart from the fresh share issue, investors and promoters would offload 13.22 crore equity shares. Promoters Peyush Bansal, Neha Bansal, Amit Chaudhary and Sumeet Kapahi, along with investors, SVF II Lightbulb (Cayman) Ltd, Schroders Capital Private Equity Asia Mauritius Ltd, PI Opportunities Fund II, Macritchie Investments Pte Ltd, Kedaara Capital Fund II LLP, and Alpha Wave Ventures LP, are the ones looking to offload shares, according to agencies. According to Lenskart, a part of the IPO proceeds would be used for strategic initiatives, including launching new Company-operated Company-owned (CoCo) stores in India. Some part of the proceeds would go into technology capex and marketing. Reports also suggest that Lenskart might consider a 430 crore pre-IPO allotment, which could eat into the final size of the fresh issue. Lenskart, which began as an online store in 2010, quickly found success, opening its first physical outlet in 2013 in New Delhi. It now boasts a pan-India presence, especially in tier-2 cities, and owns brands such as John Jacobs, Owndays, Lenskart Air, Vincent Chase, hustlr, and Hooper Kids, among others. Earlier this month, US EV giant Tesla Motors opened its showroom in India at BKC, Mumbai. A fortnight later, we saw Vietnamese electric car maker VinFast launching its first outlet in the country. But the worlds biggest EV automaker BYD is still struggling to gain ground in India. The latest news of an upcoming BYD plant in Pakistan wont help matters either. A Reuters report said that BYD looks to assemble some of its electric cars in Pakistan from 2026. The plant is expected to be operational in 2026. The first Pakistan-assembled EV is expected by July or August 2026, according to company executives, as per the report. BYDs EV plant, which has been under construction since April near Karachi under a partnership with Mega Motor Co, seems to be the result of incentives offered by the Pakistan administration. In contrast, the Chinese EV maker has to jump major hurdles to access one of the most lucrative EV markets in the world, India. According to a recent Bloomberg report, BYD has had a hard time getting visas for its executives to India after the Himalayan border incursion of China into India in 2020, which led to a skirmish. The EV giant recently held its board meetings in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Kathmandu, Nepal3and even Singapore, Bloomberg noted. The report also highlighted how BYD India MD Ketsu Zhang was unable to get a work permit after he left BYD Chennai. He now oversees India and other Asian markets from Japan. But BYDs difficulties are just on account of its Chinese parentage. VinFast Auto India, the Indian unit of VinFast, launched its showroom in Surat, Gujarat, on July 27. The dealership VinFast Surat is promoted by Chandan Car, the EV maker announced. VinFast looks to use the showroom to showcase VinFasts upcoming range of premium electric SUVs, the VF 6 and VF 7. The company also looks to launch 35 dealerships by year-end, in more than 27 cities in India. The first VinFast Showroom in Surat, Gujarat, is a symbol of our deep commitment to India. We are excited to bring the VinFast experience closer to Indian consumers. With this dealership in Gujarat, we aim to offer not just electric vehicles, but a complete ownership journey built on quality, trust, and service excellence, said VinFast Asia CEO Pham Sanh Chau at the launch. It is not just showrooms that VinFast is building in India. As it opened bookings to its EVs online with as low as 21,000 as the fully refundable booking amount, the India vehicles would come locally assembled from its upcoming factory in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. Unlike VinFast, Tesla would still import its EVs to India. The Elon Musk-led American EV maker opened its first experience centre in Mumbais Bandra Kurla Complex business district on July 15 2025. It also announced that the Model Y would be the first car that Tesla would launch in India. It appears that there is no end to the misinformation campaigns and falsehoods spread against India and its defence forces, even months after India temporarily suspended Operation Sindoor. The latest in the line of fabricated stories, possibly originating from Pakistan, is a manipulated video in which Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi is heard admitting to losing more than 250 soldiers in the war against Pakistan. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) which actively fact-checked and debunked numerous false claims and misinformation circulating about Operation Sindoor, ever since the operation was launched, clarified that the video being circulated about General Dwivedi is an AI-generated deepfake video. ALSO READ: Why is it not possible for India to hold dialogue with Pakistan? Chief of Indian Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi has made NO such statement, the PIB Fact Check division clarified. "Deepfakes are being used to mislead and spread disinformation. Always cross-check with official sources!," it further said in a social media post. The deepfake video was being spread even as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh asserted in the Lok Sabha on Monday that no Indian soldier was harmed in the four-day military stand-off between India and Pakistan. Filmmaker Cary Joji Fukunaga, of True Detective: Season 1 and the last James Bond film No Time to Die, is in the middle of production of his new crime thriller Blood on Snow, an adaptation of the 2015 Jo Nesbo novel of the same name, for which he has assembled a stellar cast comprising Benedict Cumberbatch, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Eva Green, Ben Mendelsohn, and Emma Laird. As per the latest update in The Hollywood Reporter, Norwegian actor Pilou Asbk, who played Euron Greyjoy in Game of Thrones and in Foundation Season 3, has joined the cast. The actor, who is cast in an undisclosed role, came on board after Tom Hardy, who was initially attached to it, wasn't available due to scheduling conflicts. Aaron Taylor-Johnson plays the lead character, Olav, a hitman. According to the official synopsis of the book, the story is set in Oslo in the 1970s: "the story of an unusually complicated contract killerthe perfectly sympathetic antiherothat is, as well, an edgy, lyrical meditation on death and love. Olav lives the lonely life of a fixer. When you 'fix' people for a livingterminallyit's hard to get close to anyone. Olavs latest job puts him at the pinnacle of his trade, just as he's finally met the woman of his dreams. But there are two problems. She's his boss's wife. And Olav's just been hired to kill her." Fukunaga directs the film from a script by Jo Nesbo and Ben Power, with backing from producers Mike Larocca and Michael Schaefer, in association with Fukunaga, Nesbo, Tracey Seaward, Niclas Salomonsson, Youtchi von Lintel and Dean Baker. Previously, the Jo Nesbo thriller The Snowman one of the books featuring the investigator Harry Hole was adapted by director Thomas Alfredson, starring Michael Fassbender. Filmmaker Denis Villeneuve is also reportedly working on an adaptation of a Jo Nesbo book 'The Son' with Jake Gyllenhaal, with whom he worked on the acclaimed 2013 thriller Prisoners. Veteran Malayalam actor Jagadish will reportedly withdraw his nomination for the post of president in the upcoming Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) elections. Reports indicate that the Marco actors decision comes in hopes of seeing a woman take the top post. ALSO READ | AMMA elections 2025: Will the organisation see its first woman president? Manorama News reported that Jagadish will formally withdraw his name from the stringent competition after holding discussions with Mohanlal, Mammootty, and Suresh Gopi. An approval from all three will seal the deal. The actor had earlier explained that he did not discuss with colleagues before filing his nomination. I decided to contest in my own capacity, the senior actor told PTI. The last date for withdrawal of nominations is July 30, after which the clear picture of the contestants will emerge. On Jagadishs exit, it leaves Shwetha Menon, Anoop Chandran, Devan, Jayan Cherthala and Raveendran vying for the top post. If Menon wins, she will make history as the first woman president of the organisation in its thirty-year existence. Jagadishs decision has prompted praise from the Mollywood community, with producer Sandra Thomas calling the move progressive. The approach of withdrawing from self candidacy and let women come to leadership should be emphasised and shines like a silver light in history [sic], she wrote in a Facebook post. ALSO READ | AMMA election 2025: Filmmaker Joy Mathew disqualified as six in fray for top post As per reports, Jayan Cherthala, Raveendran Lakshmi Priya, Nasser Latheef, and Unni Shivapal are contesting for the post of vice president. Baburaj, Raveendran, Anoop Chandran and Jayan Cherthala are eyeing the post of general secretary. The AMMA elections are scheduled to be held on August 15. Actor Nivin Pauly has filed a formal complaint with the Palarivattom Police Station against producer P.S. Shamnas for allegedly forging the actors signature in documents related to the production of Action Hero Biju 2. According to the First Information Report (FIR) obtained by The Week, Pauly asserts that the documents used by Shamnas to file an earlier complaint of a Rs 1.90 crore financial loss against him and filmmaker Abrid Shine were forged documents. ALSO READ | Nivin Pauly, Abrid Shine called for interrogation in Rs 1.90 crore cheating case The core of the dispute lies in a 2023 agreement signed by Pauly, Shine, and Thalayolaparamba native Shamnas regarding the film Action Hero Biju, stating that the rights of the film were owned by Paulys production banner, Pauly Junior. Shamnas then allegedly concealed the agreement and acquired the rights of the films title from the Kerala Film Chamber of Commerce by submitting a falsified version of the agreement carrying Paulys forged signature. A source informed that the Kerala Film Chamber will be taking action against Shamnas and will likely impose a ban on his production company, Indian Movie Makers. The police have charged Shamnas with non-bailable charges, including presenting a fake document. ALSO READ | Actor Nivin Pauly, filmmaker Abrid Shine booked in Rs 1.90 crore production dispute Shamnas had earlier lodged a complaint against Pauly and Shine. He stated that he was promised to be a co-producer in the sequel to Action Hero Biju, prompting him to invest Rs 1.90 crore in April 2024 for its production. The trio had earlier worked together in the 2022 film Mahaveeryar. He further accused Pauly of misleading a UAE-based company, Home Screen Motion Pictures LLC, into believing that the rights belonged to Paulys company, purchasing the overseas rights for Rs 5 crore based on an outdated agreement. Shamnas alleged that while the duo also received a Rs 2 crore advance, the producer incurred a Rs 1.90 crore loss. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has identified 51 safety and operational lapses at Air India in its July audit, with the aviation watchdog terming some of these violations as "serious", according to Reuters. It should be noted that this annual audit was not linked to the fatal flight crash involving a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner in June when 260 people, including those on board and on the ground were killed immediately after taking off from Sardar Vallabhai Patel Airport in Ahmedabad. What were the safetey lapses found at Air India? The audit report, which is 11 pages long, was prepared by 10 DGCA inspectors and four other auditors. It poined out that there were seven 'Level 1' breaches, which has to be resolved by July 30. It also listed 44 non-compliances, which should be rectified by August 23. Investigators are now looking into a possible technical fault in the recent Air India crash in Ahmedabad. The crash involved Flight AI171, a Boeing 787, which went down shortly after takeoff on July 15. Early reports suggest there may have been a malfunction in the aircrafts pic.twitter.com/7ii6ApKiG5 THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) July 17, 2025 DGCA pointed out that in one case, Air India pliots breached flight-duty period limit by 2 hours and 18 minutes. This was a Level 1 non-compliance, according to the audit report. "This may account to non-consideration of safety risks during approaches to challenging airports," the DGCA audit report said. "Recurring training gaps" were found in the case of some Boeing 787 and 777 pilots. Air India has 34 Boeing 787s and 23 Boeing 777s in its fleet, according to Flightradar24. Other violations included using unqualified simulators, inadequate cabin crew deployment, and flaws in rostering system. The audit report found that Air India's rostering system does not "give a hard alert" when the minimum number of crew is not being deployed on flights. At least four international flights did not have enough cabin crew. Compared to this, DGCA found 11 safety violations at Air India, including insufficient oxygen on board during multiple international flights for which it was fined $127,000. The growing strength of diesel fuel relative to crude is beginning to draw significant attention in oil markets, even as there is evidence the past few days that the widening spread between the two may be taking a breather. The benchmark Department of Energy/Energy Information Administration average retail diesel price fell 0.7 cents/gallon Monday, posted Tuesday, to $3.805/g. Its the first decline after three weeks of increases, and only the second decline in the last eight weeks. Ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) on the CME commodity exchange settled Monday at $2.4266/g, down from a week-earlier settlement of $2.5092/g. Measuring the diesel futures market on a straight comparison of the front month price (some comparisons make other adjustments) shows just how strong diesel has been compared to crude. Diesel spread has blown out against crude On June 11, crude made a significant upward move, with the West Texas Intermediate price on the CME commodity exchange rising 3.17% to settle at $68.15/barrel, and worldwide benchmark Brent rising 2.9% to settle at $69.77. Ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) on that day settled at $2.2053/gallon. Since then, based on Mondays CME settlements, WTI is down 2.11%, settling Monday at $66.71. But ULSD is up just over 10%, settling Monday at $2.4266/g. Diesel isnt just strong against crude. RBOB gasoline, an intermediate gasoline blendstock that is the proxy for gasoline prices on CME, is now about 30 cts/g less than ULSD. The spread got as wide as 37 cts/g last week. But RBOB was at a small premium to ULSD as recently as late May. John Kemp, a long-time journalist who writes about energy and is now independent, described diesel recently as the lone bright spot in an otherwise despondent oil market. In a distributed email, Kemp said data on investment in oil futures showed that investors have continued to boost their bullish position in middle distillates while selling the rest of the petroleum complex in the week ended July 25. Investors expect low diesel inventories to support prices and crack spreads even if the rest of the complex comes under pressure from rapid production increases by Saudi Arabia and its OPEC partners, he wrote. Open interest in ULSD on both the CME and the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), which reflects investor activity, were high enough on a combined basis to be in the 85th percentile all-time, Kemp wrote. Goldman sees the spreads remaining elevated In an article late last week, Bloomberg said a report published by Goldman Sachs said that while the recent margins of diesel against Brent may slow, the investment bank said they are still likely to end up above long-run averages given a crunch in global processing capacity. The Supreme Court has set a timeline to hear pleas challenging the intensive electoral roll revision in poll-bound Bihar. The apex court will conduct final hearing of the matter on August 12 and 13, amid the opposition's concerns of mass exclusion from the draft electoral roll at the end of the first phase of Special Intensive Revision (SIR). Hearing the matter, a bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi listed the matter for final hearing next month and added the top court would immediately step in if there are issues of mass exclusion in the draft roll. On Monday, the bench observed there should be "en masse inclusion" instead of "en masse exclusion" in the list, and it directed the Election Commission to accept Aadhar and voter IDs as proofs from voters. "Your apprehension is 65 lakh odd voters will not feature...they (ECI) are seeking correction vis-a-vis 2025 entry. We are overviewing the thing as a judicial authority. If there is mass exclusion, we will immediately step in. You bring 15 people who they claim are dead but are alive, we will deal with it," the bench told Kapil Sibal and Prashant Bhushan, senior lawyers representing petitioners. The bench directed the petitioners to file their written applications by August 8 and appointed officers from petitioners' side and the Election Commission side for filing written submissions/compilations. According to a statement from the poll body, till July 25, 7.24 crore electors have submitted their Enumeration Forms. According to the Commission, 22 lakh voters have died, 36 lakh voters have migrated, and 7 lakh voters have registered in multiple places. On July 27, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray went to 'Matoshree', the residence of former Maharashtra chief minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, after seven years. He had been there earlier, in 2019, to invite Uddhav and family for his son Amit's wedding. This time around, however, the occasion was Uddhav Thackerays 65th birthday, and Raj went there with a bouquet of red roses. The meeting between the two brothers lasted close to half an hour, and the two Thackeray cousins greeted each other with a warm hug. " I am overwhelmed," said Uddhav upon receiving a bouquet of roses from Raj. The meeting is being seen as yet another step in the direction of a possible political alliance between the Senas controlled by Raj and Uddhav, ahead of the municipal elections in Maharashtra, which are just a few months away. This was the second meeting between Thackeray cousins in July. Earlier, they had met and shared stage on July 5, at a victory rally, when the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Mahayuti government was forced to cancel its decision to introduce Hindi language for classes 1 to 5. Both Senas had opposed the move and had decided to take out morchas. But, when the government withdrew its decision, they decided to hold a non-political joint victory rally. It was that rally which really set the ball rolling. What will happen if Thackeray cousins come together and form an alliance? The immediate impact of such an alliance will be seen in the Mumbai municipal corporation elections. United Shiv Sena has been controlling the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) for almost three decades. In the 2017 elections, the BJP strongly improved its tally to cross 80-seat mark, while Shiv Sena's tally fell below 100. The BJP wanted to go for a kill as Devendra Fadnavis government was in power. But, it was Fadnavis himself who took the decision that BMC can remain with Sena, as the then government was in alliance with Shiv Sena. The term of the BMC ended in 2022, and since then, it has been governed by a top IAS officer, who is the administrator. Currently, Bhushan Gagrani is the BMC commissioner and administrator. During elections, the Marathi vote is likely to unite and support the alliance of Raj and Uddhav Thackerays Senas. Will that be enough for both Senas to win the elections? Unlikely. But, if the larger Maha Vikas Agadi remains together behind Uddhav Thackeray, then it will be a formidable force that can win elections. Will MVA accept Uddhav Thackerays alliance with Raj Thackeray? The NCP-Sharad Pawar faction won't have a problem if both Thackerays unite. The problem will be for the Congress as it will be unwilling to extend a hand of friendship to Raj Thackeray, because of latter's strong anti-migrant, anti-north Indian views. With the Bihar elections just a few months away, Congress will not want anything to do with Raj Thackeray as of now. What will happen to Eknath Shinde and his Sena if Thackeray cousins come together? It will be the Shinde Sena that will be really affected by the possible alliance between Raj and Uddhav Thackeray. So far, Shinde has been saying that his Sena is the real Shiv Sena. But, after an alliance between the Thackerays, the Shinde Sena might lose its shine and appeal, especially in the Mumbai municipal corporation region. Shinde may well hold on to Thane, his bastion, but his ambition of taking away the core support base of Shiv Sena in Mumbai may not be fulfilled. This will in turn affect the BJPs dream of snatching away BMC from Uddhavs control and pocketing the cash-rich municipal corporation. So what is likely to be the BJP's policy? BJPs policy will be to play a no-risk game. It might want to contest municipal elections as a three-party Mahayuti alliance. BJPs leadership will also not target Raj Thackeray and concentrate its attack on Uddhav Thackerays Sena and its role in corruption in BMC. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra launched a blistering attack on the Narendra Modi government in Lok Sabha, questioning the alleged intelligence failure that led to the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack. Participating in a debate on the Operation Sindoor in the lower house on Tuesday, the Wayanad MP urged the Centre to take responsibility for the attack and explain how the massacre took place. "Yesterday, the defence minister spoke for an hour, during which he spoke about terrorism, protecting the country, and also gave a history lesson. But one thing was left out. How did this attack happen? she asked. LIVE : Speaking in the Lok Sabha during special discussion on Pahalgam attack and Opration Sindoor. https://t.co/76VP53PXOU Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) July 29, 2025 Priyanka Gandhi asked if the government was not aware that thousands of tourists go to Baisaran Valley in Jammu and Kashmir. Why was there no security? Why were they left at God's mercy? Twenty-six people, mostly tourists, lost their lives as five to six terrorists, who sneaked out of the dense forest, sprayed bullets on them after verifying their religious identity. The Congress leader asserted that it was the responsibility of the prime minister, home minister, defence minister and the national security advisor to ensure peoples security. Was no government agency in the know that such a dastardly terror attack was going to happen and a plot was being hatched in Pakistan? she further asked. Leadership is not just about taking credit, but responsibility also needs to be taken, Priyanka Gandhi said in a direct attack on Prime Minister Modi. "This government always tries to escape the questions. They have no sense of accountability towards the citizens of the nation. The truth is that they have no place for the public in their heart. For them, everything is politics, publicity, she charged. The Congress MP also launched a broadside at the government over US President Donald Trumps repeated claims that he had brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. New Delhi and Islamabad agreed to a ceasefire on May 10 after three days of intense military confrontation following Indias air strikes at nine terrorist hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor. First time in the history of our country, this happened that the war was stopped abruptly and the announcement of the decision was done by the US President, she said. This reflects the irresponsibility of our prime minister. The Congress party has planned a new phase of protests, outreach programmes and hunger strikes to demand the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. The move comes just before the sixth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5. Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President Tariq Hameed Karra said the party will observe August 5 as a Black Day, with peaceful sit-in protests across the region. A big protest will be held at Maharaja Hari Singh Park in Jammu and in all district headquarters, Karra said. We will keep reminding the BJP government of its promise to return statehood. Hamari Riyasat, Hamara Haq (Our state, our right) is not just a slogan, it is about our identity and dignity. Party has adopted some children on the directions of LOP Rahul Gandhi who are victim of Pak shelling in Poonch Karra announces hunger strike for statehood Outreach campaign from 1st August HAMARI RIYASAT HAMARA HAQ; CHAI PE CHARCHA Sit on Dharna; Black day on Aug 5 pic.twitter.com/ICOx9VwMsC J&K Congress (@INCJammuKashmir) July 28, 2025 From August 1 to 5, Congress will hold a public outreach campaign called Chauraha Pe Charcha, where party members will meet civil society groups, trade unions, transport workers, and the public in different towns to build pressure on the Centre. From August 9, the party will begin day-long chain hunger strikes in Srinagar and Jammu. These will continue until August 20, the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The hunger strikes will pause on August 15 and 16, given the Independence Day celebrations. The first phase of the Congress campaignSrinagar Chalo, Jammu Chalo and Delhi Chalo energised the Congress workers and set the stage to intensify the campaign, paving the way for a more intense phase with protests and direct contact with the public to press their demand. The Congress has also called for a three-day special session of the J&K Assembly to pass a law demanding the immediate restoration of statehood. The party is trying to take the lead on this issue, especially since the BJP government has not given any timeline for restoring statehood, and the NC has been criticised for not pushing the demand strongly. The Congress campaign also comes at a time when Parliament is in its monsoon session. The party hopes to build pressure during this period and gain traction. The party is feeling rejuvenated after several senior leaders who had left the party and joined Ghulam Nabi Azads Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) returned. With this campaign, Congress is trying to get ahead of both its ally, the NC, and the BJP. The NC is hoping for a positive announcement in the monsoon session. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has said that if statehood is not restored, the party may change its strategy. The NC is also mulling holding a special Assembly session to press their demand. Meanwhile, the BJP has held internal meetings to counter both the Congress and NC campaigns on the statehood issue. In another development, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has adopted 22 children who lost their parents in Pakistani shelling in Poonch district. During his visit to Poonch, Gandhi had met families affected by shelling during the four-day India-Pakistan military clash. He also visited a local school and promised help for students who had lost their parents. On the 26th Foundation Day of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), party president Mehbooba Mufti made a direct appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to shift away from a purely security-driven policy in Jammu and Kashmir and instead focus on political dialogue and reconciliation. She called on the prime minister to use his strong national mandate to rebuild trust with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through empathy and meaningful engagement. Speaking at a party function in Srinagar, Mehbooba criticised the abrogation of Article 370. She said the move had neither brought peace nor development to the region. The people are not enemiesthey are citizens seeking justice and dignity, she said. Questioning the Centres continued militarised approach, she asked, How much security is enough? and pointed out that basic amenities like toilets and clean drinking water are still missing in many schools, while the deployment of troops continues to increase. My warmest congratulations to all my PDP workers, office bearers, and senior leadership. Todays Foundation Day was not just a celebration , it was a reflection of your love, dedication, and unshakable commitment to the vision of our great leader Mufti Sb . You have stood by me pic.twitter.com/lbMUJAsSmg Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) July 28, 2025 This call for dialogue and compassion echoes the core philosophy on which the PDP was founded in 1999 by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. The party emerged at a time when Kashmirs politics was dominated by the National Conference (NC) and the Congress to some extent. With its "healing touch" policy, the PDP positioned itself as a people-first party advocating humane governance, engagement with separatists, and demilitarisation. It provided a political entry point for those disillusioned with mainstream politicsparticularly supporters of separatist groups like Jamaat-e-Islamiwho saw in the PDP a bridge between resistance and participation. The party was often seen as a space between separatism and mainstream. The party's real breakthrough came in 2000. It formed a coalition government with Congress, and Mufti Mohammad Sayeed became chief minister. PDPs development work, especially in South Kashmir and its efforts to create a softer security environment earned it public trust. By 2014, the PDP with 28 MLAs in the 87-member assembly became the single largest party in the assembly. By The People, For The People. A vision Mufti Sahab initiated 26 years ago now a peoples movement powered by the will of J&K. pic.twitter.com/4B5yLCY2tg J&K PDP (@jkpdp) July 28, 2025 However, the decision to ally with the BJP after the 2014 polls proved politically suicidal. The PDPs core voters viewed the alliance as a betrayal, and the partnership unravelled amid policy clashes and growing public anger. The mishandling of the 2016 agitation sparked by the killing of popular Hizbul Mujahideen commander, Burhan Wani, alienated the partys core supporters. The final blow came in 2018 when the BJP pulled out of the coalition and abrogated Article 370 in 2019, downgrading Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories. In the aftermath of Article 370, the PDP was rocked by the desertion of key leaders and grassroots workers. Most of them joined JK Apni Party, allegedly backed by the BJP. The JK Apni Party was founded by former PDP leader and minister Altaf Bukhari, months after the BJP made the Article 370 move. Desertions and loss of support at the grassroots left Mehbooba with only a few trusted aides. Among them, the young youth leader of the party, Waheed Parra, continued to soldier on. Parra was among the only three PDP MLAs who emerged winners in last years assembly elections, the first after Article 370. Now, as the BJP-led central government continues to refuse to give a timeline for the restoration of statehood, and the Omar Abdullah-led NC government in the Union Territory seems reluctant to forcefully pursue the demand, space may be reopening for the PDPespecially in areas where the party once had a strong presence. In parts of South Kashmir, PDPs past developmental work, its sympathetic stance toward separatists, and its accommodative political approach still hold memory and meaning for many voters. Mehboobas renewed pitch for dialogue, political dignity, and regional justice may yet help PDP claw its way back from the margins. While the road ahead is uncertain, the current vacuum in opposition politics, combined with growing public frustration, may offer the PDP an opportunity to reconnect with its old baseand shape a new chapter in Kashmirs complex political story. At least five Kanwar pilgrims were killed and several others injured after the bus they were travelling in collided with a truck in Jharkhand's Deoghar district on Tuesday. The accident occurred near the Jamuniya forest under the Mohanpur Police Station limits around 4.30 am when the Kanwariyas were on their way to the Basukinath temple. VIDEO | Jharkhand: At least five Kanwariyas were killed and several injured in a road accident in Deoghar on Tuesday, a police officer said. The incident took place when a bus carrying Kanwariyas collided with a vehicle transporting gas cylinders near Jamuniya forest under pic.twitter.com/VZ28GC6qwH Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 29, 2025 The 32-seater bus collided with the truck loaded with cooking gas cylinders, leading the driver to lose control. According to officials, the casualties may increase as the condition of several injured is serious. The PTI news agency reported that five Kanwariyas were killed and 23 others injured in the accident. But BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who represents the Deoghar Lok Sabha constituency, claimed in a post on X that 18 people had lost their lives. "In my Lok Sabha constituency of Deoghar, during the Kanwar Yatra in the month of Shravan, 18 devotees lost their lives due to a bus and truck accident, Dubey tweeted. 18 Dr Nishikant Dubey (@nishikant_dubey) July 29, 2025 Officials said the injured have been taken to various hospitals and nearby primary health centres, including the Saraiyahat PHC in Dumka. Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren condoled the death of the Kanwaiyas and said the district administration is providing medical assistance to the injured. "The district administration is providing medical assistance to the injured with relief and rescue operations. May Baba Baidyanath grant peace to the souls of the devotees who died in the accident and give strength to the bereaved families to bear this moment of grief," Soren wrote on X. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's speech in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday was interrupted after the Lok Sabha's translation device faced issues. Although he continued normally in Hindi, the Opposition's demand that he switch to English angered him, sparking a language debate in the Lok Sabha. VIDEO | Amid a technical glitch in the translator (system) in the Lok Sabha, Tamil Nadu MPs requested BJP MP Nishikant Dubey (@nishikant_dubey) to speak in English. Responding to them, the BJP MP said, "...It would have been better if you had asked me to speak in Tamil or pic.twitter.com/YfMu6PuUV6 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 29, 2025 Calling it a "foreign language", he declared that he would have "been glad" to speak in Tamil or Bengali instead, as per a PTI report. "Your insistence on it reflects your mindset," he pointed out. Although Dilip Saikia (the BJP president in Assam), who was in the Chair at the moment, informed the House that the translation services were being restored, the Opposition's continued pressure on Dubey to switch to English led him to continue his tirade against the language. "Someone spoke in Bengali for half an hour, yet Tamil Nadu MPs didnt object. You only have a problem with Hindi. Congress and its allies dont like North Indians or Hindi. If you keep promoting English, well end up becoming England. 'Hum phir se gulaam ho jayenge' (We will become slaves again)," he explained. In that regard, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs Sayani Ghosh and Kalyan Banerjee had recently spoken to the Parliament in Bengali, in accordance with Article 120 of the Constitution, which permits members to use their mother tongue for this purpose. However, this is still an uncommon choice, since TMC leaders typically speak in the Parliament in English or Hindi. This comes despite Banerjee being publicly criticised by veteran MP Saugata Roy for his English, as well as his behaviour. He should be removed as chief whip of the parliamentary party. Hes unfit for the post because of his wrong English and intemperate behaviour, Roy had said, as per a Hindustan Times report. Confusion continues over the sentence of Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya in Yemen, with sources in the Ministry of External Affairs terming reports regarding withdrawal of her death sentence "inaccurate". Countering Indian Grand Mufti, Kanthapuram A.P. Abubakker Muslaiyars claims that the death sentence has been overturned, sources in the external affairs ministry said the information shared by "certain individuals on Nimisha Priya case is inaccurate". Subash Chandran, Supreme Court lawyer and legal adviser of 'Save Nimisha Priya Action Council' told Malayala Manorama that Talal Abdo Mahdi's family have in principle agreed to suspend her death sentence. The lawyer said Mahdi's parents and children have agreed to withdraw from the demand for death sentence. On Monday evening, Kanthapuram A.P. Abubakker Muslaiyars office said the Kerala nurse's death sentence has been overturned. "The death sentence of Nimisha Priya, which was previously suspended, has been overturned. A high-level meeting held in Sanaa decided to completely cancel the death sentence that was temporarily suspended earlier," it said. Meanwhile, Abdul Fatah Mahdi, brother of slain Yemeni businessman Talal Abdo Mahdi, also denied reports regarding the commutation of Priya's death sentence. Fatah Mahdi said his family has not reached any agreement regarding pardoning Priya. Mahdi also shared a letter written by the Yemeni authorities on his Facebook wall, urging them to implement the punishment at the earliest. Nimisha had been working in Yemen since 2011. She had established a clinic in Sana'a in 2015 under Yemeni citizen Talal Abdo Mahdi's sponsorship. However, Talal allegedly forged marriage documents to establish that they are husband and wife, took her passport and abused her physically and mentally. In an attempt to escape, Nimisha drugged Talal to take her passport from him. However, the man died of overdose. Priya was detained by Yemeni authorities near the Saudi Arabia border while she was trying to escape. In 2020, Yemen sentenced the Kerala nurse to death, and her appeals were rejected by higher courts. The Yemeni president approved the verdict last year, and she was scheduled to be executed on July 16. However, the execution was suspended on July 15, reportedly following talks initiated by Kanthapuram through clerics there with Mahdi's family. The MEA has not yet acknowledged Kanthapuram's role in the rescue efforts and said talks are underway. Home Minister Amit Shah informed the Lok Sabha on Monday that three Pakistani terrorists who carried out the Pahalgam terror attack were killed in Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir. The Union minister said the three terrorists - Suleiman, the mastermind of Pahalgam terror attack, and the two accomplices, Afghan and Jibran - were killed in Operation Mahadev carried out by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday. "These were all top terrorists belonging to the Pak-based proscribed group Lashkar-e-Taiba," Shah said in the house. The home minister said the bodies of terrorists were brought to Srinagar and their identities were confirmed by those already in the custody of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), for sheltering them. "When the terrorists' dead bodies reached Srinagar, they were identified as the three people who carried out the terror attack in Pahalgam. The FSL report of the cartridges from the terror attack was already ready. .. Yesterday, the rifles of the three terrorists were seized and matched with the FSL reports. Further tests were carried out in Chandigarh yesterday, after which it was confirmed that these three were those who carried out the terror attack," Shah said during his address in the house. "Six forensic experts have confirmed to me on a video call this morning that these are the same bullets used in the Pahalgam attack," the home minister added. The home minister said security forces had recovered Pakistani voter IDs of two of the killed terrorists as well as chocolates made in Pakistan and the weapons. "After the Pahalgam attack, security forces were instructed not to allow terrorists responsible for the dastardly act to leave the country," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed the Opposition, saying the Congress and its allies failed to support the Indian Army during Operation Sindoor even as the whole world stood behind India. "India got support from the entire world, but it is unfortunate that the Congress did not support the valour of our soldiers. Congress leaders targeted me for political gains but their frivolous statements ended up discouraging our brave soldiers," PM Modi said. Modi was speaking in response to the two-day debate in the Lok Sabha on the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor. He slammed the Congress for asking why the Centre has not taken Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) back yet, adding that they should first clarify why the party let go the region in the first place. India is still suffering the pain of mistakes committed by previous Congress governments, starting from Jawaharlal Nehru, the PM said, adding that the previous governments headed by Congress should have taken PoK back when India had custody of Pakistani soldiers. Modi's comments were in response to Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi's remarks after he asked why the Centre stopped short of reclaiming PoK during Operation Sindoor. He claimed that Congress is remote-controlled by Pakistan, while the party's young leaders are call Operation Sindoor a 'tamasha'. Modi said the Congress is desperate as it even questioned the timing of Operation Mahadev on Monday. The operation saw Indian Army neutralising the three terrorists responsible for the Pahalgam attack that claimed lives of 26 innocent civilians. The Prime Minister alleged that Nehru made a big blunder with the Indus Waters Treaty while successive governments failed to correct his mistakes. But we made it clear that blood and water cannot flow together," Modi said. Earlier in the day, Union Home Minister Amit Shah also targeted Nehru, saying Pakistan-occupied Kashmir was his legacy. He recalled that Indian armed forces were at a decisive stage in 1948, when it clashed with Pakistan in Kashmir. "Sardar Patel kept saying no, but Nehru announced a unilateral ceasefire. If Pakistan-occupied Kashmir exists today, it is due to this unilateral ceasefire announced by Nehru. Jawaharlal Nehru is responsible for this," he said. Shah said all roots of terrorism lead back to Pakistan and the country itself is the result of the Congress blunder. Had they not accepted the idea of partition, Pakistan would never have come into existence," the minister added. Boeing Co. (NYSE:BA) on Tuesday reported stronger-than-expected revenue for the second quarter, driven by a sharp rise in commercial aircraft deliveries. However, its adjusted loss per share was wider than Wall Street projections. The aerospace giant posted an adjusted loss of $1.24 per share, missing analyst expectations of a 94 cent loss. GAAP loss per share came in at 92 cents. Revenue climbed 35% year over year to $22.75 billion, beating the Street estimate of $20.20 billion. This was primarily due to higher delivery volume and improved operational performance. Also Read: Boeing 777-9 Inches Closer To Takeoff After FAA Go-Ahead: Report Boeing delivered 150 commercial airplanes in the quarter, up 63% from a year ago. The total company backlog rose to $619 billion, including more than 5,900 commercial aircraft orders valued at $522 billion. The company reported operating cash flow of $227 million and a free cash outflow of $200 million. Segment Performance Commercial Airplanes: Revenue surged 81% year over year to $10.87 billion. Operating margin improved to -5.1%, compared to -11.9% a year ago. The 737 program stabilized at 38 aircraft per month, while the 787 ramped up to seven. The segment booked 455 net orders, including major deals with Qatar Airways and British Airways . Defense, Space & Security: Revenue rose 10% to $6.62 billion. Operating margin turned positive at 1.7%, reversing a 15.2% loss margin last year. The unit secured a U.S. Air Force contract for T-7A aircraft, began testing the MQ-25 Stingray for the Navy, and grew backlog to $74 billion, 22% of which came from international customers. Global Services: Revenue increased 8% to $5.28 billion. Operating margin expanded to 19.9%, up from 17.8%, boosted by a favorable mix and key contract wins. Boeing completed the sale of its Gatwick MRO facility and secured a P-8A support contract with the South Korean Navy. Cash and marketable securities totaled $23.0 billion, down from $23.7 billion in the prior quarter, primarily due to debt repayments and cash flow usage. Consolidated debt stood at $53.3 billion. Boeing continues to maintain access to $10 billion in undrawn credit facilities. View more earnings on BA The company also recorded a $445 million charge tied to its May 2025 non-prosecution agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice, booked under unallocated items. Our fundamental changes to strengthen safety and quality are producing improved results as we stabilize our operations and deliver higher-quality airplanes, said president and CEO Kelly Ortberg in a statement. As we look to the second half of the year, we remain focused on restoring trust and making continued progress in our recovery while operating in a dynamic global environment. The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday stated that there is a need for formulating guidelines to protect lawyers from summons issued by investigating agencies probing their clients. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai asked the Attorney General and Solicitor General of India to give their suggestions for the guidelines to stop investigative agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED), CBI, and police from misusing their power by summoning lawyers, simply because they gave legal advice to a client under investigation. This issue came to light after the ED issued summons to two senior lawyers Arvind Datar and Pratap Venugopal in a case involving ESOPs (stock options) granted by Care Health Insurance to business executive Rashmi Saluja. ALSO READ | Supreme Courts push for Aadhaar use in Bihar electoral revision opens Pandoras box for government Datar had stated a legal opinion in the matter, while Venugopal was the official advocate handling the case. After a public outcry, the ED withdrew the summons and issued a circular to prevent such moves in future. What is the issue? Lawyers are supposed to be free to give legal advice, without the fear that they would be dragged into their clients legal troubles. If agencies start calling in lawyers just because they offered a legal opinion, it will discourage lawyers from taking on sensitive or controversial cases. During the hearing, Supreme Court Bar Association President Vikas Singh told the bench that it should be made mandatory for investigating agencies to get approval from a higher officer (like a Superintendent of Police) before issuing a summons to a lawyer. Some also opined that even a magistrate should be involved; to approve it first. However, the governments top lawyer, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, said that while an SP-level approval was fine, asking for a magistrates permission could go too far and might even be legally challenged. ALSO READ | Supreme Court grills Justice Yashwant Varma on in-house committee participation amid constitutional challenge Senior Advocate Amit Desai raised the issue of search warrants being issued to law firms and highlighted the importance of protecting privileged documents during investigation. There is a debate on privileged and non-privileged documents. There are guidelines in UK, US, Singapore. During probe, this aspect needs to be concerned where privileged documents cannot be handed over to the investigating agencies, he said. Senior Advocate Atmaram Nadkarni, appearing on behalf of SCAORAwho had cautioned against allowing access to electronic devices belonging to lawyerssaid that the process of looking into laptops and other devices of lawyers cannot be allowed. SG Mehta responded by assuring that the government would consider all suggestions carefully, also citing an incident to bring out a point. There was a case of a fugitive who left the country. The agency went to collect documents for the probe. The firm involved is the most honest one. The firm should not have been named. Let not one incident led to statutory changes, he explained. Why does this matter? If lawyers fear being summoned or searched for simply doing their jobs, many may stop giving honest legal opinions. This could hurt the right to legal defence, which is a key part of any democracy. How is this happening in other countries? In a recent case against former US President Donald Trump, prosecutors tried to use notes and testimony from Trumps former lawyer, Evan Corcoran, in connection with classified documents found at Trumps home. ALSO READ | Supreme Court issues notice to Centre and States on President Droupadi Murmu reference on timelines for bill assent Normally, lawyer-client communication is confidential, but in this case, the court allowed some of those communications to be used, because it was believed that the lawyers advice may have been used to help commit a crime. What happens next? The Supreme Court will hear the governments top lawyers on August 12 before deciding on final guidelines. If issued, these rules could set an important precedent to ensure that lawyers can continue their work without fear, and also that investigative agencies remain within their legal limits. In a big humanitarian gesture, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will adopt 22 children who lost both their parents or the sole breadwinner in the family in the Pakistani shelling during the Operation Sindoor. Jammu and Kashmir Congress chief Tariq Hamid Karra said Gandhi has promised to bear the educational expenses of these children from Poonch till they graduate. The first installment of the financial assistance would be released on Wednesday. "Rahul Gandhi visited Poonch in the aftermath of the devastating shelling and visited the bereaved families. He asked us to prepare a list of school-going children who lost one or both parents, especially the breadwinners, and accordingly, we submitted the list to him," Karra told PTI news agency. Poonch was one of the worst-hit areas in the cross-border shelling between May 7 and May 10 after India carried out precision strikes under Operation Sindoor on nine terror hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam massacre. Gandhi visited Poonch on May 24 and met the victims of the Pakistani shelling. He also visited several houses that were damaged during the shelling, interacted with the victims and expressed solidarity with them. Today I met the families of those who lost their lives in shelling by Pakistani troops in Poonch. Damaged houses, scattered belongings, moist eyes and painful stories of losing loved ones -- these patriotic families bear the biggest burden of war with courage and dignity every time. Salute to their courage, he later said in a post on X. At least 13 people were killed in Poonch district alone as Pakistan resorted to artillery shelling, missiles and drone strikes. More than 70 people across Jammu and Kashmir were injured in the exchange of fire. Mohabbat ki Dukaan (shop of love) is a slogan popularised by Gandhi to counter the the BJP-RSS which he has accused of playing divisive politics. "I am opening 'Mohabbat ki Dukaan' in 'Nafrat ka Bazaar' (the market of hatred), he had said during the Bharat Jodo Yatra. A day after Tamil Nadus opposition leader and AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Tiruchirappalli airport and the duo shared a renewed bonhomie, his former colleague O. Panneerselvam chose to shift stance from his usual affability with the ruling BJP. The AIADMK Workers Rights Retrieval Committee coordinator and former Tamil Nadu chief minister, popularly known as OPS, on Tuesday condemned the BJP-led Union government for not releasing funds to Tamil Nadu under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) scheme for 2024-25. OPS attacks BJP for first time Citing the non-acceptance by the state government to the Union governments conditions as the reason for not releasing the funds will not only affect the education of students, but also teachers. This action of the Centre is against the Right to Education Act and federalism, OPS said in a strongly worded statement. In fact, this is the first time ever since his rebellion against AIADMKs former interim general secretary V.K. Sasikala, OPS has chosen to oppose the BJP and the Centre. Once a staunch loyalist of J. Jayalalithaa, OPS had always been in praise of Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah. In 2017, it was at the behest of the BJP that OPS was taken back into the party. He was anointed the deputy chief minister then and was given lucrative portfolios including CMDA and Finance in EPSs regime. OPS openly said this during a public meeting at his home town in Theni, that it was the prime minister who asked him to shake hands with Palaniswami. In 2024, when AIADMK had quit the NDA alliance, OPS contested as an independent from the Ramanathapuram Lok Sabha constituency in the jackfruit symbol only to push his own party to the third position. 'The time has lapsed' Despite his overtures, AIADMK general secretary EPS who had renewed his party's ties with the BJP and rejoined the NDA, refused to take him back into the party. In a recent television interview, EPS said, the time has lapsed, when asked about taking back OPS into the party. However, OPS believed that the BJP will once again find him space in the AIADMK or ensure a political future for him and his supporters. Incidentally, months before when Amit Shah was in Chennai, OPS expected that he would get an audience with the Union home minister. In the past few months since the AIADMK renewed its ties with the BJP, OPS has never had an opportunity to meet with the BJPs Delhi high command, which once stood by him. And now when Modi was in Gangaikonda Cholapuram, OPS was eagerly waiting to hear from the PMO about an appointment with the PM. In 2019, when Modi filed his nomination papers in Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency, OPS was among those who went there to greet him. And in 2024, on the advice of the BJP, he contested as an independent from Ramanathapuram. At this juncture OPSs statement against the BJP has sent out strong signals that he no longer wants to be at the sympathy of Delhi. It was only on Monday, OPSs advisor and former AIADMK veteran Panrutti S. Ramachandran indicated that OPS and his supporters might join hands with actor and TVK founder Vijay. When there is no place for him in the alliance, what is the point in continuing there? Ramachandran asked. The Karnataka government on Monday informed the Supreme Court that the Bengaluru civic body polls would be held in November this year. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), which has been split into five city corporations by enacting a new law Greater Bengaluru Governance Act, 2024 (GBA Act), will need to carry out a massive exercise before holding the polls. The five new corporations, which were notified on July 19, will come under the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) which was notified on May 15. The delimitation of wards across all five corporations and fixing reservation (including women and OBC) for each ward needs to be carried out before the State Election Commission can notify the civic polls. BBMP polls elusive since September 2020 It may be recalled that the BBMP elections were last held in August 2015 and with the term of the last BBMP Council expiring in September 2020, then Yediurappa-led BJP government proposed a new BBMP Act and increasing the wards from 198 to 243. The Bommai government set up the Bhaktavatsala commission to work out OBC quota. The Siddaramaiah-led Congress government carried out a fresh delimitation and decreased the number of wards to 225 and accepted some of the recommendations including 33 per cent reservation for OBCs in local body polls. The BJP government chose to appoint an administrator instead of conducting elections, citing Covid-19 and pending ward delimitation. In December 2020, the state government passed the BBMP Act, 2020 increasing the number of wards from 198 to 243, which mandated new delimitation and reservation exercise before polls. Despite the many PILs in the Karnataka High Court demanding immediate conduct of the civic polls, the government delayed the polls. In March 2022, the high court directed the State Election Commission (SEC) to conduct the elections soon after the reservation process was complete. However, the government notified the final ward reservation list only a year later. The Opposition parties and citizen groups challenged the reservation list alleging violation of rotation principles and flaws in OBC allocation. Subsequently, the Supreme Court stayed the conduct of BBMP polls until the legality of reservation process was sorted. The Congress party, which came to power in 2023, passed the Greater Bengaluru Governance Act, 2024 (GBA Act), proposing division of BBMP into five corporations, zone-level governance, and planning by a Greater Bengaluru Authority. The civil society groups alleged it was a ploy to further delay the elections and to disempower the local bodies. Fresh petitions were filed both in the Supreme Court and Karnataka High Court challenging the GBA Act, leading to the apex court pulling up the state government for not holding elections for over four years. 'For the greater good of Bengaluru city' Deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar, who is also the Bengaluru development minister, said, We will submit an affidavit to the Supreme Court on holding the civic polls. The formation of GBA is for the greater good of Bengaluru city. The decision (for formation of five corporations) was taken keep in mind the geographical, administrative and financial aspects. Previously, the court had observed that delay in elections is a clear violation of Article 243 U (mandatory five-year term). The State Election Commission had stated that if it had the powers to carry out delimitation and OBC reservation matrix, there would be no scope for delay in conducting the polls. However, the citizen groups and the former corporators allege it is a ploy by the legislators and the state government to control the city and the annual budget of Rs 10,000 crore. In the absence of corporators, the MLAs will have a greater control over the officers and also the development projects and funds, reasoned a former corporator. BBMP bifurcation and other challenges The BJP MLAs have opposed the formation of the corporations stating that the Assembly constituency being divided between two or more corporations, would confuse the voters. Also, the process of delimitation of wards in each corporation, and fixing the reservation list would take longer as each corporation might have more than a 100 wards. Besides, the mammoth exercise of mobilising staff and infrastructure for the 15-odd departments under each corporation make it a daunting task to commit to the polls in November. "There's a delay, no doubt. But an Act (GBA) of the Legislature was held back by the Governor for a few months. By November, the elections will be held as per the new Act and reservations, informed the states counsel before the divisional bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi on July 28. The Court has directed the state government to file a formal affidavit giving a timeline of the different exercises to be undertaken such as bifurcation, delimitation, revision, reservation and preparation of voters' list. The BBMP has reported a fall in revenues (from property tax and advertisement fee) of up to 2,500 crore annually since 2020 and depends on government grants for its sustenance. The BBMP presented a Budget for 2025-26 with an outlay of 19,930 crore (scaled down to 18,120 crore by the Urban development department), while the state government has allocated a grant of 7,000 crore. The citizens groups have been flagging off white-topping projects being awarded without public consultation, potholed roads, increase in garbage black spots and clogged stormwater drains. The slow progress of road works, delay in execution of Smart City projects and massive pending bills of contractors are only reflection of a crumbling civic infrastructure and lack of accountability. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Dharmasthala mass burial case has begun the process of exhumation in the spots shown by the complainant witness. According to reports, separate teams of scene-of-crime officers and forensic sciences laboratory personnel have also arrived at the site. The SIT is video recording the exhumation process. A group of seven to eight labourers began digging in a forest area near the Netravathi River beside the Dharmasthala bathing ghat despite heavy rain on Tuesday, reported the Deccan Herald. #WATCH | Dakshin Kannada, Karnataka | Workers and Revenue Department officials reach the spot to begin digging where bodies were allegedly discovered in Dharmasthala. pic.twitter.com/e47y294A7z ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2025 The case stems from a testimony of a former sanitation worker, whose identity remains undisclosed, that between 1995 and 2014, he was coerced into burying several bodies in Dharmasthala some of which, he claimed, showed signs of sexual violence. The Karnataka government on July 19 formed an SIT under Pronab Mohanty, Director General of Police (Internal Security Division), to probe the allegations of mass murder, sexual assault, and secret burials. Officers from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada districts have been deputed to the team. On Monday, the SIT, along with the complainant, land records officials and district authorities, inspected multiple locations, including the bathing ghats of the Nethravati river at the entrance to Dharmasthala. The team conducted a preliminary site inspection at the Nethravathi river bank after local people raised suspicion that parts of the land might have been used for mass burials. The investigators have already held detailed discussions with local authorities and scrutinised reports of missing persons in the region. They also interacted with residents in and around Dharmasthala. Yogi Adityanath, a chief minister who loves the idea of creating records, has become Uttar Pradeshs longest serving chief minister (continuous terms). The previous record was held by Govind Ballabh Pant, with a tenure of eight years and 132 days (as of today), beginning on March 19, 2017. Pant, including his stint as premier of the United Provinces, held the office for eight years and 127 days. Known for his penchant for early morning meetings, which have many ministers and bureaucrats groaning, Adityanath rose from being a grassroots social worker. Well before he became a parliamentarian, he was organising medical camps, education drives, and relief activities through the Gorakhnath Mutt. These built him a support base that came in handy before his first parliamentary tenure at 26. Here are five decisions that set him apart from all CMs before him: Bulldozer justice: Adityanaths aggressive stance against organised crime and mafias which includes demolishing illicit or ill-gotten property has earned him the moniker of Bulldozer Baba as ill-gotten property, encroachments and the property of criminals have seen large scale demolition under him. Such is the identification of the humble bulldozer with him, that at election rallies, the mere presence of one is a shoo-in for him. His zero tolerance for crime is attributed to frequent police encounters of notorious criminals 238 since he first took office. Some of the most high profile ones have been that of Vikas Dubey and Asad Ahmad (Atique Ahmads son). In response to the furore against what his opponents decry as a trigger-happy police force, there are guidelines in place that make videography of encounter sites necessary in addition to dual-doctor panels for autopsies. But then, as the running joke in the state goes, vehicles ferrying criminals in UP can often overturn and the criminals killed in the accident. Anti-Romeo Squads: These are specially dedicated police squads to prevent harassment (read eve teasing) of women in public places. They had their birthing pangs which included hauling up of brothers who were accompanying sisters. Then the name Romeo itself led to all sorts of questions. So, now they have the more sedate label of Mahila Suraksha Team. They are also subject to stricter operating procedures that prohibit them from meting out punishment such as blackening of faces or shaving of hair. Some four crore individuals across one crore locations have been checked by these squads since 2017. Swachh Bharat: There is a ban on tobacco, paan, and gutkha in all government offices. The CM himself picks up the broom on many occasions, thus forcing his ministers and bureaucrats to do the same. The last two are expected to devote 100 hours annually to cleanliness drives. He himself conducts surprise checks of such drives and encourages his ministerial colleagues to do the same. He frequently links cleanliness with Indian spiritual ideals, invoking figures like Sant Gadge Maharaj who historically promoted public hygiene. He often rephrases a Gandhian phrase as God resides only where there is cleanliness. The one trillion push: Goaded by the prime minister, Adityanath has set his sights on the state becoming a one trillion USD economy. In this, the state is head-on-head with Maharashtra which enjoys many advantages over the state, including a port and far superior manufacturing and services growth. UPs one trillion target date has been a shifting one, but that does not take away from the fact that between 2017 and 2025, it has seen one of the fastest economic growths in the country. The latest in this direction is the launch of 27 Integrated Manufacturing and Logistics Clusters in 26 districts. He has also been consciously pushing for growth in the traditionally impoverished eastern districts with the defence hub being one of the biggest projects to be launched in the area. The staunchest soldier of sanatan: Consider slogans such as Batenge toh Katenge (divided we shall fall) - his cry for Hindu unity. He does not shy away from acts that many criticise as against the secular fabric of the country. Think the showering of petals on kanwariyas. Think the stipulations on the size of taziyas during muharram (the logic for the latter being that taziyas which are too high might get entangled in electric wires and thus the bearers might risk electrocution). He is not one to give in to the slightest hint of political niceties and has often refused to wear Muslim skull caps during important meetings with leaders of the faith. On more than one occasion he has proudly said, I am a Hindu, I do not celebrate Eid or words to that effect. For all the popularity that Adityanath enjoys why there is even a film on him awaiting release his is a permanently conflicted political stance as it was built on an early opposition to the BJP through his now disbanded Hindu Yuva Vahini. Many might not like it, but he is among the BJPs brightest stars what with demands for him to campaign pouring in from all parts of the country. While his ministers sometimes vocalise their opposition to him one, for instance, wanted to know in the assembly, how many Brahmins had been killed during his rule, he adopts a subtler approach to cut his opponents to size. One such example came in 2020, when the Defence Expo was hosted in Lucknow. From the airport to the venue, there were numerous posters and cutouts of PM Narendra Modi and Adityanath. But it was the one missing from these posters that created the loudest buzz. There was no space for Rajnath Singh who not only handles the defence portfolio but is also the MP from Lucknow. He also is not too friendly with his two deputies. Keshav Prasad Maurya, especially, who has often said sometimes on social media that the party organisation is bigger than the individual. The other one Brajesh Pathak has sometimes been missing from important meetings. Adityanath lets the partys central leadership take care of rifts. Adityanaths supporters say he will one day be the prime minister. While there is no crystal ball for that prediction, there is no denying his popularity in the present. Safe it is to say that there is no one like him in the political firmament at the moment. Days after France announced its plans to recognise the Palestinian state, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday said the UK will recognise the statehood at the UN General Assembly in September. Israel has argued that the recognition of Palestinian state would endanger Israel's security. But Starmer said that UK's "goal remains a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. Right now that goal is under pressure like never before." BREAKING: Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced the UK will recognise Palestine as a state by the United Nations meeting in September, unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire. Read more: https://t.co/Ays0iPHHg5 Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/s9HnIrdHas Sky News (@SkyNews) July 29, 2025 Can Israel change Starmer's mind? Well, for one, the British PM has put forth a few conditions, including that Israel should agree to a ceasefire in Gaza. Starmer also appealed to Israel to let the UN resume supply of humanitarian aid while also avoiding further annexations in West Bank. This comes a day after Starmer discussed the Gaza crisis with US President Donald Trump in Scotland on Monday. Ultimatum for Hamas too Starmer, while speaking from 10 Downing Street, also demanded that Hamas to immediately release all the remaining Israeli hostages and agree to a truce. He also pushed the militant group for disarmament and to accept that it will stay out of administrative roles in Gaza. "Ive always said that we will recognise a Palestinian state as a contribution to a proper peace process at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution," said the British PM. "Our message to the terrorists of Hamas is unchanged and unequivocal," Starmer added. The British premier said his government will examine in September whether the conditions are met by both the parties. However, he said "no one should have a veto over our decision". Starmer pointed out that the people in Palestine have suffered a lot, adding that "suffering must end." Spain, Ireland, Norway and Slovenia recognised the statehood of Palestine las year. France would be the 142nd country to do so while the UK would be the 143rd. Earlier, Trump had slammed French President Emmanuel Macron's decision to recognise Palestine statehood, calling it a "reward for terrorism". President Donald Trump has, for the first time, publicly acknowledged that Gaza is facing a starvation crisis, after months of deflection and reluctance to criticise Israeli military policy. Speaking in Scotland yesterday, along with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump said there was real starvation in the enclave and promised to set up new food distribution centres with British assistance. However, he offered little clarity on how the United States intended to deliver aid into the devastated territory. Trump is spending four days in Scotland on a private visit. Were giving money and things, he told reporters during a 75-minute press session. I want to make sure they get the food, every ounce of food. Trumps comments came after a weekend of renewed international concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, where more than 20 months of Israeli bombardment and aid restrictions have left nearly two million Palestinians in desperate need. His shift in tone followed meetings with several European leaders, including Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who urged stronger US engagement in addressing the crisis. Trump described the food crisis in stark terms. Thats real starvation stuff, I see it, and you cant fake that. We have to get the kids fed, he said. His remarks appeared to have been influenced by Starmers intervention, who expressed a sense of revulsion over images of starving Palestinian children. Trump criticised the existing aid delivery efforts, including those backed by his own administration. He said he would push for new food centres in Gaza that would be more accessible, without fences or barriers. They see the food. Its all there, but nobodys at it because they have fences set up that nobody can even get through. Its crazy whats going on over there, he said. The change in posture was notable. Until recently, Trump had largely focused on condemning Hamas and shifting blame away from Israel. During a White House meeting three weeks earlier with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the president avoided discussion of Gazas food crisis and instead praised Israels conduct while accusing Hamas of obstructing peace negotiations. Trumps silence on the issue stood in contrast to other world leaders. When French President Emmanuel Macron said last week that the threat of mass starvation had influenced his decision to recognise a Palestinian state, Trump dismissed the move as insignificant. What he says doesnt matter. That statement doesnt carry any weight, he said at the time. Meanwhile, Netanyahu continues to deny that Israel is deliberately starving Gazas civilian population. He dismissed accusations of starvation as a bold-faced lie, insisting that humanitarian aid had been flowing into Gaza throughout the conflict. There is no policy of starvation in Gaza, and there is no starvation in Gaza, Netanyahu said, accusing Hamas of intercepting supplies and spreading misinformation. Israels military announced what it described as a local tactical pause in Gaza to facilitate aid delivery. It also reopened designated corridors for UN convoys and allowed foreign governments to resume airdrops of food and supplies. However, humanitarian agencies have warned that these methods remain insufficient, dangerous, and uncoordinated. UN agencies, including the World Health Organization, reported a sharp increase in deaths from malnutrition in July. Of the 74 recorded malnutrition-related deaths this year, 63 occurred this month alone, including 25 children. The WHO said most victims had died shortly after reaching health facilities or were declared dead on arrival, showing clear signs of severe wasting. This crisis is entirely preventable, the agency said in a statement, blaming the deliberate blocking and delay of large-scale food, health, and humanitarian aid. Claims that Hamas has been stealing aid have also been challenged. The New York Times reported recently that senior Israeli military officials had found no evidence of systematic theft by Hamas. A separate U.S. intelligence assessment, cited by Reuters, reached a similar conclusion. Despite this, Trump now faces growing domestic criticism over his handling of aid distribution in Gaza. Twenty-one Senate Democrats have called for an immediate suspension of funding to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a controversial aid organisation backed by the US and Israel. In a letter to the White House, the senators accused the foundation of blurring the lines between humanitarian relief and military operations, leading to civilian deaths and violating international law. Since its launch in May, the foundations four distribution sites have been linked to the deaths of at least 766 people trying to access food, according to UN human rights officials. Thousands more have been injured, and over 1,000 people are believed to have died while seeking food in general. Reports also allege that US security contractors hired to guard the sites have used live ammunition and stun grenades on desperate crowds. Civilians have been fired at by tanks, drones and helicopters as they attempt to get food, the senators wrote. As criticism mounts and the humanitarian crisis deepens, Trumps promise of new food centres and stronger international cooperation will be tested in the weeks ahead. For now, his belated acknowledgement of the suffering in Gaza has done little to ease growing global outrage. Were going to fix it, Trump said in Scotland. This isnt how we feed children. A day after the Israeli defence minister repeated his threat to assassinate Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the latter made another public appearance on Monday, where he proclaimed that the regime would elevate Iran to the height of progress and pride. Khamenei was speaking at the ceremony held to mark the 40th day after the deaths of Iranian military commanders and scientists killed during a recent 12-day conflict with Israel. He said the nuclear issues, uranium enrichment, and human rights were just excuses to attack Iran. Their real problem is Irans religion, knowledge, and national unity under the banner of Islam and the Quran, he added. The Supreme Leader said he would not abandon its twin foundations of religion and knowledge despite mounting international pressure. The world has now seen the full capability of the Islamic Republic up close, he said. These events are not new for us. For 46 years, many such incidents have occurred in the country. Our enemies incited an eight-year war, carried out sedition, incited weak elements against the nation, and coup. The Islamic Republic overcame all of these," the Supreme Leader said. His statement comes as Israels Defense Minister, Israel Katz, threatened again to renew attacks on Iran and assassinate Khamenei. I want to send a clear message from here to dictator Khamenei: If you continue to threaten Israel, our long arm will reach Tehran again with even greater power - and this time personally to you too, the Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper quoted Katz as saying during a visit to Ramon Air Force Base in southern Israel. After the painful image of a five-year-old Palestinian child shook the conscience of the world, Israel has launched an attempt to debunk the viral claims of starvation in Gaza, stating that the child had a genetic disorder and is being treated in Italy. Osama al-Rakabs photo has circulated widely online as an alleged victim of the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The 5-year-olds emaciated picture first gained traction in May when his mother Mona Al-Raqab narrated his plight to the world. Osama, once a healthy pre-schooler, was already severely malnourished and suffering from malabsorption, weighing just 10 kg, roughly five kg less than what doctors say his current weight should be. "The last time he ate meat was the first day of Ramadan [Feb. 28]," Mona told CBC News on April 25 from Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis. Last month, the UN published Osamas image to highlight how months of inadequate food and nourishment in Gaza have left him severely malnourished. Even as he receives initial treatment, his full recovery depends on sufficient nutrition and follow-up care. Aid at scale must be allowed into Gaza for children's health and survival, the UN Post read. After the image symbolising Gazas starvation went viral, Israel has now launched a campaign to debunk the claim that Osama was the victim of starvation in Gaza. A post by the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) on X claims that Osama has a genetic disorder which is responsible for his condition. COGAT is the unit in the Israeli Ministry of Defence tasked with monitoring the civilian policy in the West Bank and facilitating logistical coordination between Israel and Gaza. "The Facts: Osama suffers from a serious genetic illness unrelated to the war," COGAT tweeted. "On June 12, we actively coordinated Osama's exit from Gaza with his mother and brother through the Ramon airport." "He is now receiving treatment in Italy," the post added. Tragic images rightfully stir strong emotions, but when theyre misused to fuel hatred and lies, they do more harm than good, COGAT wrote in a statement. Dont let compassion be exploited for propaganda. Check the facts before parroting blame. Israels attempt at justifying its stance comes as US President Donald Trump, after reluctance to criticise Israeli military policy, acknowledged that Gaza is facing a starvation crisis. Trump said there was real starvation in the enclave and promised to set up new food distribution centres with British assistance. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed no one in Gaza is starving: There is no policy of starvation in Gaza, and there is no starvation in Gaza. We enable humanitarian aid throughout the duration of the war to enter Gaza otherwise, there would be no Gazans. According to the UNs WHO, there have been 63 malnutrition-related deaths in Gaza this month, including 24 children under the age of 5. However, Gazas Health Ministry puts the number even higher, reporting 82 deaths this month of malnutrition-related causes: 24 children and 58 adults. By Dan Catchpole and Shivansh Tiwary (Reuters) -Boeing's quarterly loss more than halved and was much smaller than analysts expected as the U.S. planemaker ramped up jet deliveries, recovering from a regulatory crisis and a major strike that halted most production last year. The results highlighted Boeing's efforts to cautiously increase monthly output this year, following years of quality issues and production delays on its flagship 737 MAX. Increased deliveries mark a pivotal step in Boeing's effort to rebound from years of production disruptions and crises that piled on debt, increasing the urgency of accelerating output to restore financial stability. Boeing shares closed down 4.4% on Tuesday. The drop was "surprising" and unwarranted based on the quarterly results, Barclays Capital aerospace analyst David Strauss said in a note to investors. The company's financial improvements were tempered by its announcement that certification of the 737 MAX 7 and 10 models will not happen until 2026, another setback for those programs. The company previously said it expected to finish certification by the end of this year. The company is still developing solutions to address problems with the 737 MAX models' engine de-icing systems that are stalling certification, which is proving a "little more tricky" than anticipated, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg told CNBC. During the interview, he praised President Donald Trump's aggressive use of tariffs to hammer out trade deals. "I like the way this tariff situation is playing out," Ortberg told CNBC. "It's good for our business, is good for aerospace," and will create jobs in the United States. The U.S. and EU agreed to exempt aircraft and aviation parts from tariffs. However, raw materials such as steel and aluminum remain subject to steep duties. The planemaker posted an adjusted core loss per share of $1.24 for the quarter through June, compared with a $2.90 loss a year ago. Analysts had expected a loss of $1.48 per share. The planemaker's free cash flow usage, a key metric for Wall Street, was better than expected, signaling an improving cash position. "As we continue to execute our Safety & Quality Plan, there's more stability in our operations," Ortberg said in a letter to Boeing employees. Boeing's commercial plane division will lose money through the year, but free cash flow looks to be positive by year-end, Boeing Chief Financial Officer Brian West said during a call with analysts. In May, the company produced 38 737s and production has been stable since then, according to Boeing. Chinas efforts to lure Bangladesh into joining the China-Pakistan alliance continue despite Dhakas public statement denying plans to join or form any alliance with these countries. An instance of Beijings pressure tactics has been highlighted in a report, which recalled how Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi kept pushing Bangladeshs Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain to join the alliance during their recent meeting in Kuala Lumpur. An analytical piece that appeared in Dhaka-based Prothom Alo sheds light on the incident that happened during the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting in Kuala Lumpur on July 11. During a break, Wang met with Hossain for bilateral discussions. While mentioning international topics, Wang Yi mentioned the Kunming meeting, where representatives from Bangladesh, China, and Pakistan held an informal trilateral meeting on the sidelines of the China-South Asia Exposition and the China-South Asia Cooperation Forum. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Adviser for Foreign Affairs of the Interim Government of Bangladesh Touhid Hossain in Beijing on Tuesday, with the two senior diplomats pledging to strengthen bilateral interactions at various levels.https://t.co/3pqa76dVwf pic.twitter.com/dhjLxZl1sU CCTV+ (@CCTV_Plus) January 22, 2025 Wang Yi raised the formation of the Pakistan-China-Bangladesh triangle again, suggesting that Bangladesh play an active role in the initiative. Despite Wangs exhortations, Touhid did not express any opinion. He listened attentively and smiled, Prothom Alo's report quoted unnamed diplomatic sources. Hossain also confirmed that China raised the trilateral initiative during his meetings. He said that Bangladesh will not join such a trilateral initiative at this time. This is not the first or second time that Beijing has raised the issue. Since the Kunming meeting, China has raised the issue of advancing the trilateral initiative with Bangladesh at least five times. Bangladeshs interim government has rejected the idea. The interim government doesnt want to take steps that may cause suspicion among different countries in the regional and international arena, the Prothom Alo report said, without taking Indias name. Bangladesh also eyes Chinas motives with suspicion. Though Beijing claims the trilateral initiative aims at regional cooperation, it has not included Nepal and Sri Lanka. The report claims that Dhaka raised this question with China, but Beijing is yet to clarify whether it planned to invited these two South Asian countries to join the initiative. Another reason is Bangladeshs relations with Pakistan, which have begun to normalise after being stagnant for a decade and a half. The interim government believes that there are serious historical and political issues that need to be resolved, and it is the job of an elected government to make serious policy decisions. The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Manjot Singh, a 25-year-old Indian man, for his multiple crime records in Seattle this week. The ICE has said that Sigh will be deported, and his removal proceedings are underway. Singh was arrested earlier this month in a joint operation involving the ICE enforcement and removal Operations, Seattle, Homeland Security Investigations Seattle and the US Border Patrols Blaine Sector. A video posted by the ICE Seattle shows Singh looking confused. Arrested jointly by @EROSeattle @HSISeattle @USBPChiefBLW, Manjot Singh, 25, is a citizen of India arrested at least 6 times by local police. Singhs criminal history includes robbery, theft, criminal impersonation, and DUI. Hell stay in ICE custody pending removal proceedings. pic.twitter.com/rkAy6nPaAH ICE Seattle (@EROSeattle) July 23, 2025 Singh was initially held at Whatcom County Jail and later transferred to federal custody. Singh has been arrested at least six times before by law enforcement. The list of his charges includes charges of robbery, theft, assault, criminal impersonation and driving under the influence (DUI). The ICE also criticised liberal sanctuary policies for allowing Singh to remain in the country despite his criminal record. Chief Patrol Agent, US Border Patrol, Blaine Sector, Washington, Rosario Pete Vasquez made a post on social media saying that Singh was living in the US illegally. The ICE also said that Manjot entered the country illegally; however, it did not provide details as to when and how he did that. The ICE and Border Patrol officials' arrest of Singh signals the country's emphasis on deporting anyone who violates the countrys laws. It is also not the first time Indian nationals have been faced with arrest and deportation as part of the Trump administrations efforts to crack down on illegal immigration and enforcement efforts. Other cases include Gurjeet Singh Malhi, who was arrested for possessing child pornography and Jaspal Singh for assault with sexual motivation. More than 1000 Indian nationals have been deported from the US, according to the foreign ministry. The US has said that it has identified at least 18,000 Indian nationals it believes to have entered the country illegally, a Bloomberg report said in early January. A few months ago, my family and I traveled to Morocco for the hilulah of Rabbi Yitzchak Abuchatzeira on . We flew with Iberia Airlines from JFK in New York to Madrid, Spain, and were scheduled to continue from there to Marrakesh. However, our connecting flight was unexpectedly canceled, and Iberia rebooked us on a different airline: Air Arabia Maroc. When we boarded the new flight and took our seats, we quickly noticed that nearly everyone on the plane was Arab, and the airline was clearly an Arabic airline. Naturally, we were nervous. The situation was unfamiliar, and once the doors were closed, switching flights was no longer an option. We stayed on board, quietly davening and hoping bezrat Hashem wed arrive safely. Then something remarkable happened. Before takeoff, the pilot spoke over the planes intercom for several minutes. As Moroccans, we understood Arabic, and were surprised to realize he was reciting an extended version of Tefilat HaDerech, thanking G-d for the miracle of air travel, asking Him to protect the passengers and crew, and to safeguard our families back home until we return to them in peace and health. When we landed safely, I approached the pilot with my son and thanked him for reciting Tefilat HaDerech. His response left a deep impression on me. He thanked us for acknowledging it and said, This is standard for meand for our airline. Every pilot here says this prayer before every flight. We parted ways and headed into the terminal. But his words stayed with me. And I couldnt stop thinking: If an Arab airlinerepresenting a religion we do not sharecan publicly acknowledge G-d and ask for His protection before every flight, why cant El Al do the same? El Al is not just an airline. It represents the State of Israel, the Jewish people, and is often filled with religious passengers who themselves quietly recite Tefilas HaDerech as the plane begins to taxi. But why should it be silent? Why cant a Jewish pilotor a flight attendant, or even a recordingrecite Tefilas HaDerech for everyone to hear, in Hebrew or in English, and ask Hashem for a safe journey? We are a people of emunah. We are proud to be Jews. And in a time when other nations openly invoke G-ds protectioneven in commercial settingsshouldnt we, as Jews flying on Israels national airline, do the same? Signed, D.A. The views expressed in this letter are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of YWN. Have an opinion you would like to share? Send it to us for review. The prime minister of Iraq has kept his country on the sidelines as military conflicts raged nearby for almost two years. This required balancing Iraqs relations with two countries vital to his power and enemies with each other: the U.S. and Iran. The feat became especially difficult last month when war broke out between Israel, a U.S. ally, and Iran and the U.S. struck Iranian nuclear sites. Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said he used a mix of political and military pressure to stop armed groups aligned with Iran from entering the fray. In an exclusive interview with The Associated Press, Al-Sudani explains how he did this, how he plans to keep these groups in check going forward and as he seeks a second term why he wants to get closer to the Trump administration, even as he maintains strong ties to Iran-backed political parties that helped propel him to power in 2022. Staying on the sidelines as Israel and Iran traded blows After Israel launched airstrikes on Iran and it responded by firing missiles at Tel Aviv, armed groups in Iraq attempted to launch missiles and drones toward Israel and at bases in Iraq housing U.S. troops, al-Sudani said. But they were thwarted 29 times by Iraqi government security operations that he did not detail. We know that the (Israeli) government had a policy and still does of expanding the war in the region, al-Sudani said. Therefore, we made sure not to give any justification to any party to target Iraq. Al-Sudani said his government also reached out to leaders in Iran to urge them toward calm and to make room for dialogue and a return to negotiations. The future of the US presence in Iraq is in flux The U.S. and Iraq last year announced an agreement to wrap up the mission of an American-led coalition in Iraq fighting the Islamic State and in March al-Sudani announced that the head of IS in Iraq and Syria had been killed in a joint Iraqi-U.S. operation. The first phase of the coalitions drawdown was supposed to be completed by September 2025, but there has been little sign of it happening. Al-Sudani said the U.S. and Iraq will meet by the end of the year to arrange the bilateral security relationship between the two countries. He also hopes to secure U.S. economic investment in oil and gas, and also artificial intelligence which he said would contribute to regional security and make the two countries great together. A variety of militias sprung up in Iraq in the years after the 2003 U.S. invasion that toppled former autocratic leader Saddam Hussein. And since the war between Israel and Hamas began in October 2023, sparking regionwide conflicts, an array of pro-Iran armed factions have periodically launched strikes on bases housing U.S. troops. Al-Sudani said the presence of the coalition forces had provided a justification for Iraqi groups to arm themselves, but that once the coalition withdrawal is complete, there will be no need or no justification for any group to carry weapons outside the scope of the state. The fate of Iran-backed militias in Iraq is unclear One of the most complicated issues for al-Sudani is how to handle the Popular Mobilization Forces, a coalition of mostly Shiite, Iran-backed militias that formed to fight IS. This coalition was formally placed under the control of the Iraqi military in 2016, although in practice it still operates with significant autonomy. The Iraqi parliament is discussing legislation that would solidify the relationship between the military and the PMF, drawing objections from Washington. The State Department said in a statement last week that the legislation would institutionalize Iranian influence and armed terrorist groups undermining Iraqs sovereignty. Al-Sudani defended the proposed legislation, saying its part of an effort to ensure that arms are controlled by the state. Security agencies must operate under laws and be subject to them and be held accountable, he said. Indications of weak state authority In recent weeks, a series of drone attacks have targeted oil facilities in northern Iraqs semiautonomous Kurdish region. Kurdish regional authorities accused groups in the PMF of carrying out the attacks. Authorities in Baghdad disputed this, but havent assigned blame. Al-Sudani called the attacks a terrorist act and said his government is working with Kurdish authorities and coalition forces to identify those responsible and hold them accountable. Just as the drone attacks have called into question Baghdads control over armed groups, so has the case of Israeli-Russian researcher Elizabeth Tsurkov, who went missing in Iraq in 2023. Her family believes she is being held by the Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah, and there have reportedly been U.S.-mediated negotiations to negotiate her release. Al-Sudani did not name the group responsible for Tsurkovs kidnapping, but he pushed back against the idea that his government has not made serious efforts to free her. He said his government has a team dedicated to finding her. We do not negotiate with gangs and kidnappers, he said, but the team has been in discussions with political factions that might be able to help locate her. Rebuilding relations with Damascus Relations between Iraq and the new government in Syria have been tenuous since the fall of former President Bashar Assad in December, after a lightning offensive led by Sunni Islamist insurgents. Syrias interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa was formerly known by the nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani. He once joined the ranks of al-Qaida insurgents battling U.S. forces in Iraq after the U.S.-led invasion in 2003. Al-Sharaa still faces a warrant for his arrest on terrorism charges in Iraq. Al-Sharaa has since broken with al-Qaida and has fought against the Islamic State. Al-Sudani said his government is coordinating with the new Syrian government, particularly on security matters. We and the administration in Syria certainly have a common enemy, ISIS, which is clearly and openly present inside Syria, he said. Al-Sudani said his government has warned the Syrians against the mistakes that occurred in Iraq after Saddams fall, when the ensuing security vacuum spawned years of sectarian violence and the rise of armed extremist groups. In recent weeks, sectarian violence in Syria has shaken the countrys fragile postwar recovery. Al-Sudani called for Syrias current leadership to pursue a comprehensive political process that includes all components and communities. We do not want Syria to be divided, he said. This is unacceptable and we certainly do not want any foreign presence on Syrian soil, apparently alluding to Israels incursions into southern Syria. (AP) Russian glide bombs and ballistic missiles struck a Ukrainian prison and a medical facility overnight as Russias relentless strikes on civilian areas killed at least 27 people across the country, officials said Tuesday, despite U.S. President Donald Trumps threat to soon punish Russia with sanctions and tariffs unless it stops. Four powerful Russian glide bombs hit a prison in Ukraines southeastern Zaporizhzhia region, authorities said. They killed at least 16 inmates and wounded more than 90 others, Ukraines Justice Ministry said. In the Dnipro region of central Ukraine, authorities said Russian missiles partially destroyed a three-story building and damaged nearby medical facilities, including a maternity hospital and a city hospital ward. At least three people were killed, including a 23-year-old pregnant woman, and two other people were killed elsewhere in the region, regional authorities said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that overnight Russian strikes across the country hit 73 cities, towns and villages. These were conscious, deliberate strikes not accidental, Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Trump said Monday he is giving Russian President Vladimir Putin 10 to 12 days to stop the killing in Ukraine after three years of war, moving up a 50-day deadline he had given the Russian leader two weeks ago. The move meant Trump wants peace efforts to make progress by Aug. 7-9. Trump has repeatedly rebuked Putin for talking about ending the war but continuing to bombard Ukrainian civilians. But the Kremlin hasnt changed its tactics. Im disappointed in President Putin, Trump said during a visit to Scotland. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday that Russia is determined to achieve its goals in Ukraine, though he said Moscow has taken note of Trumps announcement and is committed to seeking a peaceful solution. Zelenskyy welcomed Trumps shortening of the deadline. Everyone needs peace Ukraine, Europe, the United States and responsible leaders across the globe, Zelenskyy wrote in a post on Telegram. Everyone except Russia. The Kremlin pushes back against Trump The Kremlin pushed back, with a top Putin lieutenant warning Trump against playing the ultimatum game with Russia. Russia isnt Israel or even Iran, former president Dmitry Medvedev, who is deputy head of the countrys Security Council, wrote on social platform X. Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country, Medvedev said. Since Russias full-scale invasion of its neighbor, the Kremlin has warned Kyivs Western backers that their involvement could end up broadening the war to NATO countries. Kremlin officials continue to frame Russia as in direct geopolitical confrontation with the West in order to generate domestic support for the war in Ukraine and future Russian aggression against NATO, the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington think tank, said late Monday. Russia attacks with glide bombs, drones and missiles The Ukrainian air force said Russia launched two Iskander-M ballistic missiles along with 37 Shahed-type strike drones and decoys at Ukraine overnight. It said 32 Shahed drones were intercepted or neutralized by Ukrainian air defenses. The Russian attack close to midnight Monday hit the Bilenkivska Correctional Facility with glide bombs, according to the State Criminal Executive Service of Ukraine. Glide bombs, which are Soviet-era bombs retrofitted with retractable fins and guidance systems, have been laying waste to cities in eastern Ukraine, where the Russian army is trying to pierce Ukrainian defenses. The bombs carry up to 3,000 kilograms (6,600 pounds) of explosives. At least 42 inmates were hospitalized with serious injuries, while another 40 people, including one staff member, sustained various injuries. The strike destroyed the prisons dining hall, damaged administrative and quarantine buildings, but the perimeter fence held and no escapes were reported, authorities said. Ukrainian officials condemned the attack, saying that targeting civilian infrastructure, such as prisons, is a war crime under international conventions. The assault occurred exactly three years after an explosion killed more than 50 people at the Olenivka detention facility in the Russia-occupied Donetsk region, where dozens of Ukrainian prisoners were killed. Russia and Ukraine accused each other of shelling the prison. The Associated Press interviewed over a dozen people with direct knowledge of details of that attack, including survivors, investigators and families of the dead and missing. All described evidence they believed points directly to Russia as the culprit. The AP also obtained an internal United Nations analysis that found the same. Russian forces also struck a grocery store in a village in the northeastern Kharkiv region, police said, killing five and wounding three civilians. Authorities in the southern Kherson region reported one civilian killed and three wounded over the past 24 hours. Alongside the barrages, Russia has also kept up its grinding war of attrition, which has slowly churned across the eastern side of Ukraine at a heavy cost in troop losses and military hardware. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed Tuesday that Russian troops have captured the villages of Novoukrainka in the Donetsk region and Temyrivka in the Zaporizhzhia region. Ukraine launches long-range drones Ukraine has sought to fight back against Russian strikes by developing its own long-range drone technology, hitting oil depots, weapons plants and disrupting commercial flights. Russias Defense Ministry said Tuesday that air defenses downed 74 Ukrainian drones over several regions overnight, including 43 over the Bryansk region. Yuri Slyusar, the head of the Rostov region said a man in the city of Salsk was killed in a drone attack, which started a fire at the Salsk railway station. Officials said a cargo train was set ablaze at the Salsk station and the railway traffic via Salsk was suspended. Explosions shattered windows in two cars of a passenger train and passengers were evacuated. (AP) The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un dismissed the U.S.s intent to resume diplomacy on North Koreas denuclearization, as she urged Washington to accept her country as a nuclear weapons state and find a new approach to restart talks. Kim Yo Jongs statement suggested North Korea would only return to talks if the U.S. rewards it for a partial surrender of its nuclear capability. Some experts say U.S. President Donald Trump could still pursue talks with North Korea to make a diplomatic achievement. Trump has recently bragged of his personal ties with Kim Jong Un and expressed hopes of restarting nuclear diplomacy between them. Their high-stakes diplomacy in 2018-19 that occurred during Trumps first term unraveled after Trump rejected Kims calls for extensive sanctions relief in return for dismantling his main nuclear complex, a limited denuclearization step. Kim has since executed weapons tests to modernize and expand his nuclear arsenal. Kims sister calls relations between her brother, Trump not bad In a statement carried by state media, Kim Yo Jong said she doesnt deny the personal relationship between her brother and Trump is not bad. But she said if their personal relations are to serve the purpose of North Koreas denuclearization, North Korea would view it as nothing but a mockery. She said North Koreas nuclear capability has sharply increased since the first round of the Kim-Trump diplomacy and that any attempt to deny North Korea as a nuclear weapons state would be rejected. If the U.S. fails to accept the changed reality and persists in the failed past, the DPRK- U.S. meeting will remain as a hope of the U.S. side, Kim Yo Jong said, referring to her country by its official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. She said it would be advisable to seek another way of contact. Kim Yo Jong is a key official on the Central Committee of the Norths ruling Workers Party. She handles the countrys relations with South Korea and the United States, and South Korean officials and experts believe she is the Norths second-most powerful person after her brother. North Korea likely wants talks on partial denuclearization Kim Yo Jong said she was responding to reported comments by a U.S. official that Trump is open to talks on denuclearization. She likely was referring to a Saturday article by Yonhap news agency that cited an unidentified White House official as saying Trump remains open to engaging with Leader Kim to achieve a fully denuclearized North Korea. North Korea wants to say its not interested in talks on denuclearization and the U.S. must determine what benefits it can give to the North first, said Nam Sung-wook, a former head of the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank run by South Koreas spy agency. Nam said Trumps likely desire to win a Nobel Peace Prize would prompt him to seek talks with Kim Jong Un and give him corresponding benefits for taking phased denuclearization steps. Nam said North Korea would want broad sanctions relief, a suspension of U.S.-South Korea military drills that it regards as invasion rehearsals and other economic incentives. Kim Yeol Soo, an analyst at South Koreas Korea Institute for Military Affairs, said U.S. and North Korean officials could meet if they narrow some differences on terms for restoring talks. But he said Trumps unpredictability would make it extremely difficult to predict what concessions the Americans would offer. Prospects for early U.S.-North Korea talks likely depend on the Russia-Ukraine war Other experts have earlier said that North Korea now preoccupied with its expanding cooperation with Russia sees no urgent need to resume diplomacy with the U.S. and South Korea. On Monday, Kim Yo Jong rebuffed overtures by South Koreas new liberal government, saying its blind trust in the countrys alliance with the U.S. and hostility toward North Korea make it no different from its conservative predecessor. Nam said prospects for an early resumption of U.S.-North Korea diplomacy would depend on whether the Russia-Ukraine war ends soon and U.S. tariff negotiations with other countries are proceeded in a direction that Trump wants. Kim, the analyst, said Trump may use his likely attendance of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea this autumn as a chance to travel on to North Korea or a Korean border village to meet Kim Jong Un. Kim Yo Jong on Monday described as a daydream a reported South Korean idea of inviting her brother to the regional summit. (AP) The Yeshiva of Philadelphia reports that HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky shlita, who was in deep septic shock on Sunday with virtually no chance of recovery, has shown slight improvement following urgent tefillos held worldwide. Doctors, who initially said only a miracle could save him, now acknowledge a potential path to recovery. They described his progress as nissim, emphasizing that he remains in critical condition. Klal Yisrael is urged to continue davening for Shmuel ben Ita Etil for a refuah sheleima. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) HaGaon HaRav Meir Tzvi Bergman spoke sharply to an askan involved in the issue of the Chareidi draft law amid the IDFs attempt to lure yeshivah bochurim into army service. The Rosh Yeshivah said, I always tell this storywhen I studied at the Lomza Yeshiva, there were soldiers from the underground movements at the time. They would come to the yeshiva and constantly try to persuade the bochurim to leave and defend the residents of Israel. They would say that it was a horaas shaah and we needed to close our Gemaras, etc. It was very difficult to deal with them; they would constantly sit next to us and harass us. It was difficult to learn. In any case, at that time, members of the underground movements spoke to the Rosh Yeshivah, Rebbe Reuven Katz, ztl, the Baal Degel Reuven, to demand that he allow the bochurim to go with them, and he absolutely refused. In response, they pointed a weapon at him and threatened him. Rebbe Reuven Katz opened his shirt and said to them, If you want, you can shoot me.' HaRav Bergman continued: What do I want to say with this? This story is already 80 years old, and I remember it like yesterday. The reason is because I saw the Rosh Yeshivahs mesirus nefesh. I saw how he was willing to give up his life for Torah. This is what the bochurim need to see and hear. Every marbitz Torah, every Rosh Yeshivah, and every father must be mechaneich this and talk about this constantlythat its forbidden to go to the army, that whoever goes there isits shmad. He wont come out Chareidi from there, and we must give our lives for this. And we must talk about this all the time and be mechaneich the bochurim about this. Only then can we say, our hands did not shed this blood. Theythe bochurimneed to feel from us that we are not compromising on this, the Rosh Yeshivah concluded. HaRav Bergman has previously said more than once in the name of his father-in-law, HaGaon HaRav Elazar Menachem Man Shach, ztl, that if Chareidim are ever forcefully recruited to the IDF, it is considered a gezeiras shmad and bnei yeshivos must give up their lives for it. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) Boeing's second-quarter loss narrowed and revenue improved as the aircraft manufacturer delivered more commercial planes in the period. Boeing Co. lost $611 million, or 92 cents per share, for the three months ended June 30. A year earlier it lost $1.44 billion, or $2.33 per share. Adjusting for one-time gains, Boeing lost $1.24 per share. This was better than the loss of $1.54 per share that analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research expected. Shares rose slightly before the market open on Tuesday. Revenue climbed to $22.75 billion from $16.87 billion, mostly due to 150 commercial deliveries compared with 92 deliveries in the prior-year period. The performance topped Wall Street's estimate of $21.86 billion. Our fundamental changes to strengthen safety and quality are producing improved results as we stabilize our operations and deliver higher quality airplanes, products and services to our customers, CEO Kelly Ortberg said in a statement. As we look to the second half of the year, we remain focused on restoring trust and making continued progress in our recovery while operating in a dynamic global environment. Boeing has been dealing with a variety of issues over the past few years. On Sunday Boeing said that it expects more than 3,200 union workers at three St. Louis-area plants that produce U.S. fighter jets to strike after they rejected a proposed contract that included a 20% wage increase over four years. The International Machinists and Aerospace Workers union said the vote by District 837 members was overwhelmingly against the proposed contract. The existing contract was to expire at 11:59 p.m. Central time Sunday, but the union said that a cooling off period would keep a strike from beginning for another week, until Aug. 4. Last fall, Boeing offered a general wage increase of 38% over four years to end a 53-day strike by 33,000 aircraft workers producing passenger aircraft. In June the National Transportation Safety Board said that its 17-month long investigation found that lapses in Boeings manufacturing and safety oversight, combined with ineffective inspections and audits by the Federal Aviation Administration, led to a door plug panel flying off Alaska Airlines flight 1282, which was a Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft, last year. Boeing said in a statement at the time that it will review the NTSB report and will continue working on strengthening safety and quality across its operations. The Max version of Boeings bestselling 737 airplane has been the source of persistent troubles for the company since two of the jets crashed, one in Indonesia in 2018 and another in Ethiopia in 2019, killing a combined 346 people. The Dutch government on Monday evening announced that it has imposed an entry ban on Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, along with a series of other anti-Israel measures. Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp wrote in a letter to Dutch lawmakers that the cabinet has decided to declare Israeli ministers Smotrich and Ben-Gvir persona non grata and will register them as undesirable aliens in the Schengen registration system. This is because they have repeatedly incited settler violence against the Palestinian population, continuously advocated the expansion of illegal settlements, and called for ethnic cleansing in the Gaza Strip. The government also announced that the Israeli ambassador to the Netherlands will be summoned for clarification over the situation in the Gaza Strip. The decision was made a day before an important meeting at the European Union on whether to suspend Israels access to the worlds largest research cooperation program. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof announced that the government may support the proposal to suspend funding for Israel. The government is also threatening to call for the suspension of the European trade agreement with Israel and the restriction of arms exports to Israel. Finally, the government announced that it is donating 4.5 million euros to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. Minister Ben Gvir responded to the report by stating, Even if they ban me from entry to all of Europe, I will continue to act for our country and demand that we defeat Hamas and support our soldiers. Those who are violent, murderers, and rapists are our enemiesbut in Europe, as in Europe, the one who is attacked is to blame. In a place where terror is tolerated and terrorists are welcomed, a Jewish minister from Israel is not wanted. Terrorists are free, and Jews are boycotted. Smotrich responded by stating, What they dont understand in the Netherlands and other European countries is that far more than it matters to me to enter the Netherlands, it matters to me that my children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and those of all the Jews in the world, can live in the State of Israel in security for decades and centuries to come. In the Netherlands and Europe in general, Jews did not live in security at the beginning of the last century, and judging by the European hypocrisy, the surrender of its leaders to the lies of radical Islam that is taking over, and the rising antisemitism thereJews will not be able to live there in security in the future either. I dedicate my life to the future and security of Israel and will continue to do so to the best of my judgment, even if it means standing firm against the entire world. And as the late Prime Minister Menachem Begin said, if someone in the world turns up their nosewell, let them have a crooked nose. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) Palestinian terrorists released in the latest hostage deal were rearrested on Tuesday evening by IDF forces in Qalqilya, Palestinian media reported. According to the reports, one of them is senior Islamic Jihad terrorist Sameh Al-Shoubaki, who served 22 years of a life sentence before being released. He was also arrested in April but was released shortly later. A second terrorist who was arrested was Saed al-Fayed, who also served over 20 years in prison and was briefly arrested in May. The third terrorist was Ahmed Khadjr, who was serving a prison sentence for carrying out a stabbing attack in 2017, in which an Israeli was seriously injured. The fourth terrorist, Saeed Diab, was also arrested at his home in Qalqilya. Al Jazeera reported that the occupation forces arrested Palestinians, including released prisoners in the hostage deal, in various areas of the West Bank, but did not provide further details. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) Foreign Minister Gideon Saar held a press conference on Tuesday for the foreign press at the Foreign Ministry in Jerusalem and asserted that Israel will not give in to the international pressure based on lies and distortions and end the war with Hamas in power in Gaza. We are witnessing a distorted campaign of international pressure against Israel in recent days, Saar said. This campaign fuels the wave of antisemitism we are witnessing. When they demand to end the war, what does it really mean? Ending the war while Hamas remains in power in Gaza. That will be a tragedy for both Israelis and Palestinians. Thats why they took the hostages in the first place: to try to impose their will on Israel. It aint gonna happenno matter how much pressure is put on Israel. The second aim of this distorted campaign is an attempt to force upon Israel a Palestinian terror state. The French foreign minister said yesterday in New York that Europe must pressure Israel to accept the two-state solution. The establishment of a Palestinian state today is the establishment of a Hamas state, a jihadist state. It aint gonna happen. We are aware that there are countries in Europe today with huge Muslim populations, and sometimes this affects the policies of their governments. But this cannot and will not lead Israel to commit suicide. We wont allow a jihadist terror state in the heart of our historical homeland. It aint gonna happen. We wont allow a Hamas terror state to be formed just a few kilometers away from our population centers. Israel will not be the Czechoslovakia of the 21st century. We wont sacrifice our own existence for the sake of appeasing countries. We wont give up our basic interests for the sake of internal politics in certain countries that lost control over their own streets. But still they arrogantly presume to decide whats good for our security. Diplomatic pressure will not change our policy. No external force will cause Israel to sacrifice its security. We are always open to constructive dialogue but pressure on us will not work. It must be clear: the international pressure on Israel during critical days of negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage deal has already caused Hamas to harden its positions. This pressure is directly sabotaging the chances for a ceasefire and hostage deal and is only pushing toward military escalation by hardening Hamass stance. Everyone who is worried about the humanitarian situation must ask themselves: who is responsible for the suffering of the Palestinians of Gaza? Who is responsible for this war and its continuation? There is only one clear answer: Hamas. Hamas initiated the war with the October 7 massacre. Hamas is responsible for the wars continuation by refusing to release the hostageswe still have 50 hostages in Gazaand by refusing to lay down its arms. International pressure must not be on Israel. It must be on Hamas. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) A yeshivah bochur went to the Petach Tikvah police station early Tuesday afternoon to request a certificate of good conduct [ ] and was arrested on the spot as an army deserter. A certificate of good conduct attests to a persons lack of a criminal record, which is required to apply to certain official bodies or jobs. When the bochur, a talmid at the Sephardi Minchat Yehuda yeshivah, arrived at the station, the investigator who checked his details discovered that he was subject to conscriptionand he was transferred to the military police. Shortly afterward, Peleg Yerushalmi called for demonstrations near the police station, and dozens heeded the call, leading to clashes between the police and the protesters. Rav Doron Gedalia, the Rosh Yeshivah of Michat Yehudah, said in an interview with Kol BRamah, Bochurim were instructed to be careful and not approach police officers. This is an extreme war against Hashem and lomdei Torah. Arrest is a red line; everything must be done to stop it. Your browser does not support the video tag. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) As the 20-year anniversary of the disengagement from Gaza approaches, Israeli religious actor Chagay Lober published a post on social media entitled You dont make the same mistake twice. Lober, a former resident of the Gush, is now a bereaved fatherhis son Elisha Yehonatan, Hyd, was killed in battle in Gaza in December 2023, leaving behind a pregnant wife and baby. Lober wrote, A picture that will forever remain in my head from those days in Ganei Tal in Gush Katif. My wife is surrounded by people dressed in black, telling the soldiers evacuating her: We will be forced to return here with the blood of slain soldiers.' She didnt know and couldnt have guessed that the sweet boy next to her, who was then six years old, would be killed a kilometer away in Khan Younis in battle, and she would have to pay the price herself for the folly of the disengagement. Now, after 20 years, I and many others are not looking for culprits and are willing to believe that those who supported it were completely and sincerely sure that the removal of Jews, for the benefit of cruel enemies, would bring peace and life, and you truly thought that destroying flourishing yishuvim would bring security, and you believed that peace will finally come only if we give them an area free of Jews. And I, and many others, are willing to try to forget the disturbing past for the sake of the future. The acts of the media that picked a side and painted the settlers as evil and violent, the signs at the demonstrations at kibbutzim that called for the destruction of their brothers in the nearby yishuvim, the experts who arrogantly promised peace, security, and the Singapore of the Middle East. But on the condition that those who voted then for the terrible disengagement, especially the prime minister, do not repeat that terrible mistake. And they not show, as they did then, fatigue and defeat. And they not explain the surrender with false morality. And they wont demand to stop and surrender in the middle of the war. And they wont help establish another terror state for terrorists. And they wont say, There is no choice; we must have political solutions. Because the second time there will be no forgiveness. And what was a mistake becomes a choice. And this time we will not forgive the abandonment. It should be noted that then-Finance Minister Binyamin Netanyahu voted for the disengagement while it was still in the planning stages, but when the final vote came up in the cabinet, he resigned from the government and voted against it. He explained his votes later as a delaying tactic in order to carry out a series of revolutionary economic reforms. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) I have been trying to get a refund that British Airways promised me in the autumn of last year. The airline first issued me an eVoucher after my husband and I couldnt take flights wed booked to the US in 2020 during the Covid pandemic. But when I came to use the 1,840 vouchers in August last year towards a trip to the Dominican Republic there was a problem, and I ended up having to pay the full price on my credit card. BA promised I would be reimbursed for the voucher value to my credit card, but nothing happened, despite numerous emails and promises. Please help. S.G., Maidstone, Kent. Out of pocket: BA promised to reimburse a customer who couldn't use their eVouchers to pay and was forced to use a credit card, but the money was never returned Sally Hamilton replies: Five years on since the pandemic, Im alarmed to still be receiving complaints involving BA eVouchers issued to customers unable to travel during that time. When Covid struck in spring 2020, BA initially provided vouchers for cancelled trips rather than refunds, which could be used against future BA flights or holidays. Many people accepted these rather than cash refunds to be supportive of the airline during such a difficult period. Deadlines were applied for using them, which were extended four times because so many were unable to spend them. That included me. I accepted 720 in vouchers after a planned six-week adventure to New York in March 2020 was scuppered. Since I was unable to find BA flights to suit my travel plans, I passed them on to one of my daughters, with the final slug spent last month, in time for the final deadline of September 30, 2025. I was sorry to read of your hassles, especially as you tried to apply the vouchers to your travel bill. You told me how ill your husband has become with dementia in the years since the Covid cancellation, leading to his move into a care home. You have faced much stress in that time but looked forward to the Dominican Republic break with three other members of your family. The holiday was a success, but you were left with a bad taste and a dented bank balance over the vouchers not being applied. Your daughter even stepped in to chase BA for the money. When you came to me you were desperate, so I went full throttle to get your complaint resolved. I am pleased to say BA swiftly arranged reimbursement, along with 400 as a gesture of goodwill. Meanwhile, K.Y., from east Cornwall, faced a wall of silence in trying to get his money back from BA for eVouchers he couldnt use. He and his wife were due to fly to Bangkok in December 2020 but cancelled due to Covid uncertainty in return for a 2,220 voucher. Unfortunately, his health then declined. He is unlikely to be able to use the voucher, and certainly not before September 30. He emailed customer service numerous times for help as well as writing a letter, but was ignored. On my intervention, BA agreed to refund him as a goodwill gesture. In his gratitude he kindly donated 100 to the Marfan Trust, a charity I support. BA reminded me that it has extended the expiry period on several occasions to offer flexibility. Unfortunately, peoples health and family circumstances often do not always allow for flexibility. However, those in a similar position can consider transferring them to family or friends or even selling them, if they get their skates on. Rob Burgess, of travel rewards website Head For Points, says he doesnt blame BA for drawing a line under the voucher issue, especially after a fourth extension of the deadline. He says: BA has a huge European and long-haul network to spend the vouchers on so most people should have been able to use them up. 'The vouchers are also transferable, and therefore also sellable on marketplaces such as eBay. Scam Watch Investors should watch out for a scam investment peddled on messaging app Telegram, consumer website Which? warns. Fraudsters add victims to a group chat and claim they have been chosen to participate in a Bitcoin or cryptocurrency trading advice group. Victims are given the number of a senior financial adviser to call but this is a scam and fraudsters will attempt to get you to part with your money, Which? says. If you are added to one of these groups, click report spam and leave at the top of the group chat page. Late wife's insurance plan won't pay out My late wife paid monthly into a SunLife life insurance plan. When I informed the firm about my loss and enclosed the death certificate, I was told I would receive 935. When I chased, I received a letter from the insurer saying that since a premium had been missed in September 2024, the payout could not be made. I was confused as my wife had not been in a position to cancel a payment. R.B., Manchester. Sally Hamilton replies: Your wife was paying into an over 50s life policy, which is different from a standard term life insurance plan in that no medical questionnaire is required and it promises to pay out as long as premiums are paid continuously. With standard life insurance plans (where medical questionnaires are necessary) there is usually a grace period offered of typically 30 days or so if a policyholder misses a payment in which to catch up. Not so with most over 50s plans. However, it seemed to me any skipped payments must have been an error and I thought SunLife, whose policies are managed by Phoenix, could have shown more benevolence. I asked them to investigate and can reveal there had been a breakdown in communication within the firm and the payout has been made. A spokesperson for Phoenix says: We are deeply sorry for the distress R.B. experienced following the passing of his wife. 'We understand how important it is for families to feel supported during such a difficult time, and we regret that our handling of his claim fell short of the standards we strive to uphold. 'Although the policy had lapsed due to missed payments, we recognised the exceptional circumstances and made the decision to reinstate the policy and honour the claim in full. 'Unfortunately, we did not confirm the payout with R.B. when he made a claim, and when he contacted us for an update, he was incorrectly informed that the claim would not be paid. Phoenix has apologised and added a goodwill gesture on top of the payout. Straight to the point I bought a pair of hearing aids from Specsavers last year for 1,995. My husband died not long after so the aids were the last thing on my mind. Once I started to wear them, I found that they fell out easily when I moved around. I was offered an extra arm to be fitted but I would have to pay 150. I want a refund as I cant wear these outside the house in case I lose them. S.V., via email. Specsavers says you were happy with the hearing aids when you bought them but you had a later appointment to help with the fitting issue, which you did not attend. It has arranged for you to have a fresh trial of modified hearing aids. *** I have not been able to log into my PayPal account for five months. I have phoned and emailed only to receive messages that say log in to read messages. I have more than 100 in my account but cannot get to it nor use it to pay for anything. I feel like Im going around in circles. J.M., West Lothian. Paypal says a limitation has been placed on the account to keep it safe. It is contacting you to help you gain access to your account and has issued a goodwill gesture. *** In June I asked my supplier Octopus Energy to produce a reduced night-time electricity rate so I could charge my hybrid car over the winter months, when my solar panels wont work so well. But when my next bill arrived my daily rate had shot up by more than 25 per cent. I didnt know of this potential increase and no one at Octopus has explained to me why my daily rate has been hiked. K.T., Cheshire. Octopus Energy says that you asked to move to a night-time tariff but did not realise your daytime rates would go up as a result. It also billed you for the night-time tariff earlier than it should have. It has now returned your overpayment and given you a 100 goodwill gesture. As anyone who hasnt been living under a rock for the last few years knows, the UK tax burden is the highest it has been since the Second World War. And so you might think that the last thing the Government would be considering would be yet another tax to add to the multiple levies we are already paying. But no, Labour circles are abuzz with talk of a brand new money-raising measure: a wealth tax. As Andrew Neil so masterfully explained on these pages earlier this month, such a tax is always doomed to failure, costing the Exchequer far more in lost revenue than it raises. But that is not the only reason to dismiss it out of hand. The fact is we pay far too many taxes already. While the average household pays 16,700 in direct tax on income, our exclusive audit shows that this is just the tip of the iceberg. Burden: There are a multitude of other taxes households must pay on top of direct taxation in the form of income tax and National Insurance We all pay a multitude of other taxes, from air passenger duty to environmental levies on our energy bills. This means that the average household pays not 16,700 but 31,623.50, an astonishing tax rate of 57 per cent. Here we present a mind-boggling guide to the 37 yes, 37 levies that we already pay, and exactly how much they cost each of Britains 28.4 million households on average. Tax burden in full 1. Income tax 10,631 per average household Introduced as a supposedly temporary measure by William Pitt the Younger in 1798 to raise cash for the Napoleonic Wars, income tax has long since become the governments single biggest source of revenue. It is paid by everyone with an income in excess of 12,570 a year. Above that level taxpayers pay 20 per cent on the first 37,700 of income, 40 per cent on any income between 37,700 and 125,141 and 45 per cent on anything above that. Indeed, life gets complicated once you hit six figures. If you earn 100,000, the taxman whittles down your personal allowance by 1 for every extra 2 you earn. In all, the government took 301.9 billion in income tax in 2024/25, which works out at an average of 10,631 for each of Britains 28.4 million households. Your browser does not support iframes. 2. National insurance 6,070 National insurance contributions (NICs) date back to 1911, when taxpayers were told they would be paying into a national insurance fund to look after them when they were old, fell sick or lost their job. But there is not, and never has been, such a fund all the receipts go straight into general government expenditure and welfare benefits are paid out of the governments current income. Anyone who earns more than 242 per week pays NICs, at a rate of 8 per cent. But it doesnt end there. Employers also have to pay, at a rate of 15 per cent, for any employee who earns more than 96 per week. In 2024/25, the government raised 48.1 billion in employees contributions and 116.1billion in employers contributions. The total revenue raised (which also includes NICs paid by the self-employed) came to 172.4 billion, working out at an average of 6,070 per household. 3. Value added tax 6,025 VAT came to Britain when we joined the then European Economic Community in 1973, replacing various other purchase taxes. In 2024-25 it raised 171.1 billion, working out at an average of a hefty 6,025 per household. 4. Council tax 1,768 According to the Office for Budgetary Responsibility (OBR), the total which will be raised by council tax this year is 50.2 billion an average of 1,768 per household. The total which will be raised by council tax this year is 50.2bn an average of 1,768 per household 5. Corporation tax 1,448 Companies pay tax on their profits at a rate of 25 per cent. While individuals arent hit by this tax directly, they are indirectly in two ways. Firstly, corporation tax drives businesses to charge extra for their services. Secondly, many of us are shareholders, either directly or through our pension funds. Given that 55 per cent of the shares in UK companies are held by overseas investors, lets be fair and attribute only 45 per cent of the corporation tax burden to UK households. Total revenue of 91.4billion in 2024-25 still works out at 1,448 per UK household. 6. Fuel duty 869 Around half of what we pay at the pump disappears into the pockets of the government in the form of fuel duty. In 2024-25, this tax raised a total of 24.7 billion. That wasnt all paid by private motorists, as businesses have to pay it, too. But the burden eventually falls on us as businesses are forced to pass on the costs to the consumer. The average burden per household last year was 869. 7. Business rates 880 Most of us may not pay business rates directly but the companies that do would go bust if they didnt pass them on to their customers in one form or another. Total raised this year 25 billion 880 per household 8. Stamp duty land tax 489 Not everyone buys a home, and certainly not every year, but it can be a massive bill if you do. In 2024-25 it raised 13.8 billion an average of 489 per household. 9. Capital gains tax 460 As its name suggests, CGT is a tax on the profit which individuals and businesses make selling an asset for a higher price than that which they paid for it. Mercifully, our main homes are exempt from the levy, and not everyone will face a CGT bill in their lifetime. But in 2024-25 it raised 13.1 billion, which works out at 460 for every household in the country 10. Alcohol taxes 436 The most lucrative of the so-called sin taxes, alcohol levies raised 12.6 billion in 2024-25. Of this, 4.7 billion came from wine, 4.2 billion from spirits, 3.5 billion from beer and 220million from cider. It all worked out at an average of 436 per household. Sin tax: Alcohol levies raised 12.6bn in 2024-25. Of this, 4.7bn came from wine, 4.2bn from spirits, 3.5bn from beer and 220m from cider 11 Vehicle excise duty 320 According to the OBR, we will collectively spend 9.1 billion taxing vehicles in 2025-26. Not all this will be paid by individuals, but again we will all end up bearing the burden as businesses are forced to pass on the costs. Average cost per household: 320. 12. Insurance premium tax 313 Most of us have some kind of insurance from household contents to travel which helped fill the governments coffers to the tune of 8.9 billion last year, an average of 313 per household. 13. Tobacco duty 279 Only around one in eight UK adults now smoke, but those who do pay through the nose. Tobacco taxes raised 7.9 billion last year, an average of 279 per household. 14. Student loans repayment 199 This is not strictly a tax but the imposition of an extra 9 per cent on income tax for graduates who earn over a certain threshold certainly makes it feel like one. Average cost per household: 199 15. Customs duties 173 Levies on goods imported to the UK raised 4.9 billion last year, a hidden burden which falls on us all to the tune of 173 per household. 16. Stamp duty on shares 154 There is also stamp duty to pay on share purchases. Revenue raised in 2024/25: 4.4 billion, or 154 per household 17. Air passenger duty 148 The duty levied on every passenger who flies from UK airports to both domestic and international destinations raised 4.2 billion last year, an average of 148 per household. 18. Social and environmental levies on energy bills 141 (electricity), 41 (gas) The government has hidden subsidies for green energy, insulation schemes and the like in our energy bills. Last year, electricity consumers handed over an average of 141, while gas users paid 41. 19. TV licence 133 Changing viewing habits and cost-of-living pressures are believed to be behind an increase in the number of people evading the 174.50 licence fee in recent years, with the estimated evasion rate rising to 11.30 per cent in 2023/24, up from 6.95 per cent in 2019/20. This means that the number of households with a valid TV licence has decreased from 24.1 million to 23.8 million. It nevertheless raised 3.8 billion in 2024-25, an average of 133 per household. 20. Betting/gambling tax 127 You dont have to have a flutter but, if you did, you helped contribute 3.6 billion to the Treasury last year, an average of 127 per household. 21. Emissions trading scheme 127 The idea of subjecting businesses to annual caps on how much carbon they can emit and forcing them to buy extra permits if they exceed those limits was dreamed up by the EU. But guess what happened after Brexit. Britain invented its own parallel scheme. It raised 3.6 billion in 2024-25, with costs passed on to all of us at an average of 127 per household. 22. Energy profits levy 95 The so-called windfall tax on oil and gas production has outlived the oil and gas bonanza of 2022. In 2024-25 it added 2.7 billion to the cost of producing oil and gas in Britain, with the burden inevitably passing to households thatll be 95 each/ 23. Climate change levy 63 Net Zero is supposed to make us richer, according to the Energy Secretary Ed Miliband. But not if you are a business which has to pay the governments climate change levy, a bill which needless to say gets passed down to all households. It raised 1.78 billion last year, an average of 63 per household Green fees: Energy Secretary Ed Miliband says Net Zero is supposed to make us richer, but households pay an average of 63 for the Climate Change Levy 24. Bank levy 46 A special extra tax was imposed on banks after the 2008 financial crisis, supposedly to cover the cost of the banking bailouts and any future help the banking sector might need to save it from disaster. But, as with all taxes, the burden ends up landing on the consumer, as it means banks are less able to offer favourable savings and borrowing rates. In 2024-25 it raised 1.3 billion equivalent to 46 per household 25. Banking surcharge - 30 For some reason, however, one extra tax on banks wasnt enough. There is also a banking surcharge on corporation tax which raised 846 million in 2024/25, which works out at 30 per household 26. Penalties 29 While they might not strictly be taxes, fines for filing late tax returns and the like are certainly a big revenue-raiser, earning the government 826 million last year, an average of 29 per household. 27. Digital services tax 28 This tax is supposed to level the playing field with non-internetbased businesses but, of course, it is yet another tax which ends up getting passed onto the consumer. The 808 million raised last year works out at 28 per household 28. Electricity generator levy 26 Bizarrely, as well as slapping a carbon tax on fossil fuel-generated power the last government also imposed a temporary levy on low carbon power, to target windfalls from high energy prices. It runs until 2028 and in 2023/24 raised 743 million, or 26 per household 29. Landfill tax 17 Theres even a tax for filling up the holes left behind by quarrying. For every ton of waste sent to landfill, we all end up paying. It raised 486 million last year, an average of 17 per household. 30. Apprenticeship levy 14 Large businesses are obliged to fund apprenticeships even if they do not or cannot offer them themselves. Total revenue in 2024/25 was 4.1 billion, the burden of which eventually trickles down to all of us through higher prices. Burden per household: 14. 31. Aggregates levy 13 Environmental taxes have become a big money-spinner for the government. Quarrying aggregates such as sand and gravel incurred taxes of 359 million last year, 13 per household. 32. Soft drinks industry levy 12 Thanks to the sugar tax, sticking to soft drinks rather than the hard stuff will no longer save you from the taxman. It raised 328 million in 2024-25 an average of 12 per household. 33. Plastic packaging tax 10 Introduced in 2022, this tax is levied on plastic packaging components whether manufactured here or imported that contain less than 30 per cent recycled plastic. It raised 266 million last year, 10 per household. 34. Residential property development tax 4 Just what we need when so many people find housing unaffordable: a new tax on building homes. Introduced by the Conservatives in 2022, last year it raised 102 million. Not everyone buys a new home, of course, but the burden averages out at 4 per household. 35. Diverted profits tax 4 The Conservatives came up with the idea of a tax on global corporations which seek to divert profits to more favourable tax regimes. An alternative, of course, would have been to lower UK tax rates so that companies started diverting profits to this country rather foreign jurisdictions. It raised 105 million in 2024/25 which works out at 4 per household. 36. Carrier bags 1 Not strictly a tax as the money doesnt go to the government, but the charge is mandated by the government. The obligatory 10p charge for single-use plastic bags cost us a collective 37 million last year just over 1 per household. 37. Economic crime levy 50p This is supposed to pay for anti-money laundering initiatives and is imposed on the finance industry, estate agents, etc. In 2024-25 it raised 13 million, or 50p per household. Total taxes per average household: 31,623.50 Astrazeneca's boss said it is a very American company as he refused to rule out moving its main stock market listing to the US. Speaking from the British pharma giants offices in New York, Pascal Soriot said it was global, but it was very much rooted and present in the US. He added that continuing to view it as a British company was old-fashioned. The comments fuelled speculation that the FTSE 100 group could switch its main stock market listing from London to New York, and even move its headquarters to the US. That would be a devastating blow to Britain and the London Stock Exchange as AstraZeneca is the largest listed firm on the Footsie, valued at 167billion. I love America and its focus on innovation, Soriot said, highlighting that the firm expected to make over half of its sales in the US by 2030 and has thousands of employees in the country. We are a very American company. We are global, but we are very much rooted and present in the US, he added. Rumours: AstraZeneca chief exec Pascal Soriot (pictured) said the British pharma giant was global, but very much rooted and present in the US Soriot insisted he would not comment on rumours it was considering shifting its listing across the Atlantic. AstraZeneca posted profits of 4.9billion for the first half of the year, a 26 per cent increase on 2024, while sales rose 9 per cent to 21billion. The figures were boosted by record revenues in the three months to June, which grew 12 per cent to 11billion. Soriot said the surge in profits was down to the firms broad and diverse pipeline with sales of cancer medicines increasing by 15 per cent to nearly 9billion in the first half of the year. Meanwhile, the companys crucial US market continued to expand, with sales in the country rising 12 per cent to 9billion. Last week, the company unveiled plans to invest 37billion in the US, which included the construction of a drug factory in Virginia. But the move fuelled fears that AstraZeneca is preparing to shift its stock market listing to Wall Street, a move Soriot is said to privately support. Pharma companies are seeking to avoid any hit from Donald Trumps tariff measures, with the president threatening to impose levies of up to 200 per cent on the industry. Sheena Berry, healthcare analyst at wealth manager Quilter Cheviot, said: This is a delicate situation for AstraZeneca. It will want to stay on the right side of Trump and his administration as much as possible. Soriot said the firm has met many members of the Trump administration, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, to discuss its contribution to the US economy. While he insisted the firm remained committed to the UK, Soriot said European countries were falling behind their rivals and called for governments to boost investment into developing new drugs and bringing them to market. He said the UK should increase investments in pharma research to 0.6 per cent of gross domestic product, equivalent to 15.2billion, up from 0.3 per cent now, noting that the US spends 0.8 per cent of its GDP on drug development, equivalent to 166billion. We love being in the UK [but] we need to see a reason to invest, Soriot said. AstraZenecas drive towards the US is also an embarrassing snub to the Government, with pharmaceuticals considered a key industry in Keir Starmers drive to revive economic growth. Shares rose 3.4 per cent yesterday. CocaCola Company (The) (NYSE:KO Get Free Report) has earned an average recommendation of Buy from the seventeen analysts that are covering the stock, Marketbeat reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold recommendation, fourteen have given a buy recommendation and two have assigned a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 1-year price target among brokers that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $77.21. KO has been the topic of a number of research reports. Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating and set a $81.00 target price on shares of CocaCola in a research report on Monday, June 9th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on shares of CocaCola from $77.00 to $79.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 23rd. UBS Group reduced their target price on CocaCola from $86.00 to $84.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, July 23rd. Royal Bank Of Canada set a $76.00 price target on CocaCola and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, July 21st. Finally, BNP Paribas reissued an outperform rating and issued a $83.00 price objective on shares of CocaCola in a research note on Monday, July 21st. Get CocaCola alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on CocaCola CocaCola Trading Up 0.1% KO opened at $69.18 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of $297.75 billion, a PE ratio of 24.53, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.60 and a beta of 0.45. The company has a quick ratio of 0.98, a current ratio of 1.21 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.49. CocaCola has a twelve month low of $60.62 and a twelve month high of $74.38. The company has a fifty day moving average of $70.64 and a 200-day moving average of $69.45. CocaCola (NYSE:KO Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, July 22nd. The company reported $0.87 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.83 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $12.50 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $12.55 billion. CocaCola had a return on equity of 44.91% and a net margin of 25.89%. The firms revenue was up 2.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $0.84 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts predict that CocaCola will post 2.96 EPS for the current year. CocaCola Announces Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, October 1st. Stockholders of record on Monday, September 15th will be issued a $0.51 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, September 15th. This represents a $2.04 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.95%. CocaColas dividend payout ratio is currently 72.34%. Insiders Place Their Bets In other CocaCola news, EVP Beatriz R. Perez sold 60,326 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $71.87, for a total value of $4,335,629.62. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 187,716 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,491,148.92. The trade was a 24.32% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, CEO James Quincey sold 266,403 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, May 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $72.06, for a total value of $19,197,000.18. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 275,946 shares of the companys stock, valued at $19,884,668.76. This trade represents a 49.12% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 415,387 shares of company stock valued at $29,923,985. Corporate insiders own 0.90% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On CocaCola A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. NorthRock Partners LLC increased its holdings in CocaCola by 4.4% during the second quarter. NorthRock Partners LLC now owns 50,458 shares of the companys stock worth $3,595,000 after buying an additional 2,141 shares during the last quarter. Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund lifted its stake in CocaCola by 0.6% in the second quarter. Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund now owns 334,695 shares of the companys stock valued at $23,680,000 after purchasing an additional 2,000 shares during the last quarter. Astoria Portfolio Advisors LLC. grew its holdings in CocaCola by 1.8% during the second quarter. Astoria Portfolio Advisors LLC. now owns 17,656 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,220,000 after purchasing an additional 312 shares during the period. Concord Asset Management LLC VA grew its holdings in CocaCola by 5.6% during the second quarter. Concord Asset Management LLC VA now owns 61,457 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,348,000 after purchasing an additional 3,250 shares during the period. Finally, Total Clarity Wealth Management Inc. increased its position in CocaCola by 31.7% in the second quarter. Total Clarity Wealth Management Inc. now owns 4,507 shares of the companys stock worth $319,000 after buying an additional 1,084 shares during the last quarter. 70.26% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. About CocaCola (Get Free Report The Coca-Cola Company, a beverage company, manufactures, markets, and sells various nonalcoholic beverages worldwide. The company provides sparkling soft drinks, sparkling flavors; water, sports, coffee, and tea; juice, value-added dairy, and plant-based beverages; and other beverages. It also offers beverage concentrates and syrups, as well as fountain syrups to fountain retailers, such as restaurants and convenience stores. See Also Receive News & Ratings for CocaCola Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CocaCola and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. New Republic Capital LLC lessened its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report) by 1.0% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 1,235 shares of the companys stock after selling 13 shares during the period. New Republic Capital LLCs holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $1,020,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of LLY. Garner Asset Management Corp raised its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 2.3% in the 4th quarter. Garner Asset Management Corp now owns 532 shares of the companys stock valued at $411,000 after buying an additional 12 shares during the last quarter. Applied Finance Capital Management LLC increased its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 1.4% during the 4th quarter. Applied Finance Capital Management LLC now owns 855 shares of the companys stock worth $660,000 after purchasing an additional 12 shares during the last quarter. Tobias Financial Advisors Inc. increased its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 4.1% during the 4th quarter. Tobias Financial Advisors Inc. now owns 307 shares of the companys stock worth $237,000 after purchasing an additional 12 shares during the last quarter. Redwood Investments LLC increased its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 0.5% during the 4th quarter. Redwood Investments LLC now owns 2,209 shares of the companys stock worth $1,705,000 after purchasing an additional 12 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Hobbs Wealth Management LLC increased its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 0.8% during the 1st quarter. Hobbs Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,459 shares of the companys stock worth $1,205,000 after purchasing an additional 12 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 82.53% of the companys stock. Get Eli Lilly and Company alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades LLY has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. HSBC lowered Eli Lilly and Company from a buy rating to a reduce rating and lowered their price target for the stock from $1,150.00 to $700.00 in a research report on Monday, April 28th. Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Tuesday, April 22nd. They set an overweight rating and a $975.00 price target on the stock. UBS Group lowered their price target on Eli Lilly and Company from $1,100.00 to $1,050.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, May 2nd. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an overweight rating and set a $1,135.00 price target (up previously from $1,133.00) on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Thursday, July 10th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company reaffirmed an overweight rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Thursday, May 1st. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and seventeen have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Eli Lilly and Company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $1,012.56. Eli Lilly and Company Stock Performance LLY opened at $811.73 on Monday. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $771.95 and a 200 day simple moving average of $800.61. The company has a market capitalization of $769.31 billion, a PE ratio of 66.05, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.18 and a beta of 0.40. Eli Lilly and Company has a 1 year low of $677.09 and a 1 year high of $972.53. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.18, a current ratio of 1.37 and a quick ratio of 1.06. Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The company reported $3.34 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $4.64 by ($1.30). The firm had revenue of $12.73 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $12.77 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 22.67% and a return on equity of 85.51%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 45.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $2.58 earnings per share. Research analysts expect that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 EPS for the current year. Eli Lilly and Company Announces Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, September 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, August 15th will be given a dividend of $1.50 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 15th. This represents a $6.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.74%. Eli Lilly and Companys payout ratio is 48.82%. Eli Lilly and Company Profile (Free Report) Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LLY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Eli Lilly and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eli Lilly and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. The British Business Bank has achieved 2.5bn ($3.3bn) in lending through its Growth Guarantee Scheme, a programme designed to enhance access to finance for smaller UK businesses. This scheme has seen 69% of its lending directed to businesses outside London and the southeast, highlighting its broad geographic impact. In particular, more than 200m of lending has been provided in the North West, West Midlands, East of England, and Yorkshire and the Humber regions. The strategy supports a diverse range of industry sectors across the UK, including over 368m for manufacturing, more than 366m for wholesale and retail, and over 234m for the construction sector. Launched on 1 July 2024, the Growth Guarantee Scheme offers a variety of financial products through accredited lenders, such as term loans, overdrafts, asset finance, invoice finance, and asset-based lending. The initiative can back facility sizes of up to 2m, providing lenders with a 70% government-backed guarantee, while borrowers remain 100% liable for the debt. British Business Bank chief banking officer Reinald de Monchy said: This milestone is a demonstration of the important work done by the 50+ delivery partners who have signed up to the Growth Guarantee Scheme, since its launch in July 2024. In particular, it is fantastic to see how much lending has been provided to firms under five years old, and the diversity of sectors supported. The governments recent Spending Review will provide the scheme with funding until March 2030, and we are excited to see the additional impact it can generate for smaller businesses across the UK. A new agreement was recently signed between the British Business Bank and Rural Asset Finance, aiming to unlock around 120m in funding for smaller rural and agricultural businesses across the UK. The facility is supported by funding from NatWest Bank and BCI Capital, with the British Business Bank guaranteeing a portion of NatWests contribution. The agreement also features sustainability-linked incentives that may reduce borrowing costs if environmental performance targets are met. "British Business Bank achieves 2.5bn in Growth Guarantee lending" was originally created and published by Leasing Life, a GlobalData owned brand. Baldwin Investment Management LLC raised its position in shares of Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ Free Report) by 21.5% in the first quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 17,857 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 3,159 shares during the quarter. Baldwin Investment Management LLCs holdings in Johnson & Johnson were worth $2,961,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. A number of other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 2.8% during the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 57,667,920 shares of the companys stock valued at $8,321,881,000 after buying an additional 1,561,036 shares in the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp lifted its position in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 12.3% during the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 30,813,175 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,456,201,000 after buying an additional 3,363,235 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its position in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 1.8% during the 4th quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 24,356,572 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,522,447,000 after buying an additional 431,205 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp lifted its position in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 26.4% during the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 23,182,464 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,844,580,000 after buying an additional 4,842,582 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Invesco Ltd. lifted its position in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 6.5% during the 4th quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 19,126,079 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,766,014,000 after buying an additional 1,171,975 shares in the last quarter. 69.55% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Johnson & Johnson alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on JNJ shares. Leerink Partners cut Johnson & Johnson from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and lowered their price objective for the company from $169.00 to $153.00 in a research report on Tuesday, May 13th. UBS Group lifted their price objective on Johnson & Johnson from $180.00 to $190.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, July 17th. Erste Group Bank upgraded Johnson & Johnson from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 23rd. Sanford C. Bernstein restated a market perform rating on shares of Johnson & Johnson in a research note on Wednesday, April 16th. Finally, Wall Street Zen downgraded Johnson & Johnson from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, July 18th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have issued a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $174.50. Johnson & Johnson Stock Down 0.7% Shares of JNJ opened at $168.29 on Monday. The stock has a market capitalization of $404.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.00, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.14 and a beta of 0.41. Johnson & Johnson has a 1 year low of $140.68 and a 1 year high of $169.99. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $156.08 and its 200-day simple moving average is $155.97. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50, a current ratio of 1.01 and a quick ratio of 0.76. Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 16th. The company reported $2.77 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.68 by $0.09. The business had revenue of $23.74 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $22.85 billion. Johnson & Johnson had a return on equity of 32.49% and a net margin of 25.00%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 5.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $2.82 EPS. As a group, equities analysts expect that Johnson & Johnson will post 10.58 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Johnson & Johnson Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 9th. Investors of record on Tuesday, August 26th will be issued a dividend of $1.30 per share. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, August 26th. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.09%. Johnson & Johnsons payout ratio is presently 55.61%. About Johnson & Johnson (Free Report) Johnson & Johnson is a holding company, which engages in the research, development, manufacture, and sale of products in the healthcare field. It operates through the Innovative Medicine and MedTech segments. The Innovative Medicine segment focuses on immunology, infectious diseases, neuroscience, oncology, cardiovascular and metabolism, and pulmonary hypertension. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding JNJ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Johnson & Johnson Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Johnson & Johnson and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wincap Financial LLC reduced its stake in Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA Free Report) by 3.9% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,901 shares of the credit services providers stock after selling 78 shares during the period. Wincap Financial LLCs holdings in Mastercard were worth $1,042,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. New Republic Capital LLC raised its stake in shares of Mastercard by 11.2% in the first quarter. New Republic Capital LLC now owns 1,681 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $921,000 after purchasing an additional 169 shares during the last quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Mastercard by 6.2% in the 1st quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 32,484 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $17,805,000 after buying an additional 1,891 shares in the last quarter. Maridea Wealth Management LLC raised its position in Mastercard by 10.1% in the 1st quarter. Maridea Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,124 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $616,000 after buying an additional 103 shares during the last quarter. Purkiss Capital Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Mastercard by 23.6% during the 1st quarter. Purkiss Capital Advisors LLC now owns 1,677 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $919,000 after acquiring an additional 320 shares during the period. Finally, Baldwin Investment Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Mastercard by 144.8% during the 1st quarter. Baldwin Investment Management LLC now owns 4,238 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $2,323,000 after acquiring an additional 2,507 shares during the last quarter. 97.28% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Mastercard alerts: Mastercard Stock Performance NYSE MA opened at $568.18 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.81, a current ratio of 1.11 and a quick ratio of 1.11. Mastercard Incorporated has a 1-year low of $432.11 and a 1-year high of $594.71. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $565.61 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $550.38. The stock has a market capitalization of $518.02 billion, a PE ratio of 39.84, a P/E/G ratio of 2.46 and a beta of 1.02. Mastercard Dividend Announcement Mastercard ( NYSE:MA Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The credit services provider reported $3.73 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.57 by $0.16. The company had revenue of $7.25 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $7.12 billion. Mastercard had a net margin of 45.21% and a return on equity of 196.87%. Mastercards quarterly revenue was up 14.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $3.31 earnings per share. On average, research analysts predict that Mastercard Incorporated will post 15.91 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 8th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, July 9th will be given a dividend of $0.76 per share. This represents a $3.04 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.54%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, July 9th. Mastercards dividend payout ratio is 21.32%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research firms have recently weighed in on MA. KeyCorp boosted their price objective on shares of Mastercard from $630.00 to $635.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Friday, May 2nd. Wall Street Zen raised Mastercard from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, July 18th. Seaport Res Ptn raised Mastercard from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday, July 14th. UBS Group upped their price objective on Mastercard from $660.00 to $670.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, June 3rd. Finally, Macquarie dropped their target price on Mastercard from $645.00 to $610.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, May 2nd. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-five have assigned a buy rating and three have assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $612.90. Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Mastercard Insider Buying and Selling at Mastercard In other news, insider Craig Vosburg sold 14,051 shares of Mastercard stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, June 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $585.05, for a total value of $8,220,537.55. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 58,451 shares in the company, valued at approximately $34,196,757.55. The trade was a 19.38% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, insider Raj Seshadri sold 1,100 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $546.77, for a total value of $601,447.00. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 12,921 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,064,815.17. This represents a 7.85% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 38,753 shares of company stock worth $20,351,084 in the last 90 days. 0.09% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Mastercard Profile (Free Report) Mastercard Incorporated, a technology company, provides transaction processing and other payment-related products and services in the United States and internationally. The company offers integrated products and value-added services for account holders, merchants, financial institutions, digital partners, businesses, governments, and other organizations, such as programs that enable issuers to provide consumers with credits to defer payments; payment products and solutions that allow its customers to access funds in deposit and other accounts; prepaid programs services; and commercial credit, debit, and prepaid payment products and solutions. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Mastercard Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mastercard and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Ciena Corporation (NYSE:CIEN Get Free Report) has been given a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy by the fifteen analysts that are covering the firm, MarketBeat reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating, eight have given a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the company. The average twelve-month price objective among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $85.54. A number of research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Wall Street Zen raised Ciena from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, July 5th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on Ciena from $83.00 to $105.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Rosenblatt Securities upped their price objective on Ciena from $65.00 to $85.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, June 3rd. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an underweight rating and set a $70.00 price objective (down previously from $73.00) on shares of Ciena in a report on Tuesday, July 8th. Finally, B. Riley reissued a buy rating and issued a $90.00 target price (up previously from $89.00) on shares of Ciena in a report on Friday, June 6th. Get Ciena alerts: Read Our Latest Analysis on CIEN Ciena Trading Up 2.2% Shares of CIEN stock opened at $90.56 on Thursday. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $79.86 and its 200 day moving average price is $75.90. Ciena has a 1-year low of $44.89 and a 1-year high of $101.44. The firm has a market capitalization of $12.80 billion, a PE ratio of 125.78, a P/E/G ratio of 1.98 and a beta of 1.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55, a current ratio of 3.40 and a quick ratio of 2.57. Ciena (NYSE:CIEN Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, June 5th. The communications equipment provider reported $0.42 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.50 by ($0.08). Ciena had a return on equity of 5.08% and a net margin of 2.46%. The business had revenue of $1.13 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.09 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $0.27 EPS. The companys revenue was up 23.6% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Ciena will post 1.6 EPS for the current fiscal year. Insider Buying and Selling at Ciena In related news, CEO Gary B. Smith sold 6,800 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, July 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $82.23, for a total transaction of $559,164.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 325,557 shares of the companys stock, valued at $26,770,552.11. This trade represents a 2.05% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, SVP Joseph Cumello sold 2,044 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, June 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $81.64, for a total value of $166,872.16. Following the sale, the senior vice president directly owned 47,198 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,853,244.72. The trade was a 4.15% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 42,269 shares of company stock valued at $3,306,811. 0.93% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Institutional Trading of Ciena Large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Ciena during the first quarter valued at $219,000. GAMMA Investing LLC boosted its stake in Ciena by 40.4% in the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 2,960 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $179,000 after buying an additional 851 shares during the last quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. acquired a new stake in Ciena in the 1st quarter worth about $2,398,000. Bessemer Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Ciena by 50.0% during the 1st quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 534 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 178 shares during the period. Finally, American Century Companies Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Ciena by 1.5% during the 4th quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 44,711 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $3,792,000 after acquiring an additional 669 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 91.99% of the companys stock. Ciena Company Profile (Get Free Report Ciena Corporation provides hardware and software services for delivery of video, data, and voice traffic metro, aggregation, and access communications network worldwide. The companys Networking Platforms segment offers convergence of coherent optical transport, open optical networking, optical transport network switching, IP routing, and switching services. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Ciena Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ciena and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (OTCMKTS:MHVYF Get Free Report) is one of 69 publicly-traded companies in the MACH GENL INDL industry, but how does it contrast to its rivals? We will compare Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to similar businesses based on the strength of its analyst recommendations, risk, earnings, institutional ownership, dividends, valuation and profitability. Institutional & Insider Ownership 73.4% of shares of all MACH GENL INDL companies are held by institutional investors. 7.2% of shares of all MACH GENL INDL companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company is poised for long-term growth. Get Mitsubishi Heavy Industries alerts: Valuation and Earnings This table compares Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and its rivals gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Mitsubishi Heavy Industries $33.01 billion $1.62 billion 49.74 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Competitors $4.72 billion $501.44 million 17.62 Risk & Volatility Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has higher revenue and earnings than its rivals. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is trading at a higher price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more expensive than other companies in its industry. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has a beta of 0.55, suggesting that its share price is 45% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries rivals have a beta of 11.39, suggesting that their average share price is 1,039% more volatile than the S&P 500. Analyst Ratings This is a breakdown of current recommendations and price targets for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and its rivals, as reported by MarketBeat. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Mitsubishi Heavy Industries 0 1 0 1 3.00 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Competitors 340 2471 3130 125 2.50 As a group, MACH GENL INDL companies have a potential upside of 8.40%. Given Mitsubishi Heavy Industries rivals higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has less favorable growth aspects than its rivals. Profitability This table compares Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Mitsubishi Heavy Industries 4.87% 10.01% 3.68% Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Competitors 8.66% 12.75% 7.11% Summary Mitsubishi Heavy Industries rivals beat Mitsubishi Heavy Industries on 8 of the 13 factors compared. About Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (Get Free Report) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. manufactures and sells heavy machinery worldwide. It operates through Energy Systems; Plants & Infrastructure Systems; Logistics, Thermal & Drive Systems; and Aircraft, Defense & Space segments. The company offers thermal, renewable energy, nuclear power generation, and engine power plants; oil and gas production plants; lithium-ion battery products and fuel cells; civil aircrafts and engines, aviation equipment, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul of aircrafts; and launch vehicles and services, rocket engines, reaction control systems, space stations, rocket launchers, rocket engine combustion test facilities, and electronic parts. It also provides passenger and commercial ships, LNG and LPG carriers, special purpose vessels, and IT services and systems; marine machineries, boilers, turbines, engines, and structures; and intelligent transport systems products and solutions, such as electronic toll collection system, road user charging system, highway traffic management system, EV management system, and development system. In addition, the company offers organic solvent exhaust gas treatment system, waste-to-energy system, sludge treatment system, air quality control system, and bio-treatment system; turbochargers, car air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, rubber and tire machinery, and testing equipment; forklift trucks; and printing, paper converting, and metals, and food & packaging machinery, pumps, compressors & mechanical turbines, hydraulic components. Further, it provides gas holders, vibration control systems, water pipes, tunnel excavation machinery, and cybersecurity solutions for industrial control systems; special vehicles, naval ship and maritime systems, defense aircrafts, helicopters, defense aeroengines, and guided weapon systems; CO2 capture plants; and after-sales services. The company was founded in 1884 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Receive News & Ratings for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. N.E.W. Advisory Services LLC grew its stake in WEC Energy Group, Inc. (NYSE:WEC Free Report) by 5.6% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 40,161 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 2,142 shares during the period. N.E.W. Advisory Services LLCs holdings in WEC Energy Group were worth $4,377,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Hughes Financial Services LLC bought a new position in WEC Energy Group during the first quarter valued at $28,000. Opal Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of WEC Energy Group in the 1st quarter worth about $32,000. Prudent Man Investment Management Inc. purchased a new position in shares of WEC Energy Group during the 4th quarter worth about $28,000. Golden State Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in WEC Energy Group by 252.6% during the 1st quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 342 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $37,000 after purchasing an additional 245 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Creekmur Asset Management LLC raised its position in WEC Energy Group by 2,420.0% in the 1st quarter. Creekmur Asset Management LLC now owns 378 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $41,000 after purchasing an additional 363 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 77.20% of the companys stock. Get WEC Energy Group alerts: WEC Energy Group Stock Performance WEC stock opened at $107.52 on Tuesday. The company has a market capitalization of $34.31 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.96, a PEG ratio of 3.01 and a beta of 0.44. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $105.75 and a 200 day moving average price of $105.02. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.23, a current ratio of 0.50 and a quick ratio of 0.40. WEC Energy Group, Inc. has a 1-year low of $83.13 and a 1-year high of $111.00. WEC Energy Group Cuts Dividend WEC Energy Group ( NYSE:WEC Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, May 6th. The utilities provider reported $2.27 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.18 by $0.09. The business had revenue of $3.15 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.81 billion. WEC Energy Group had a return on equity of 12.94% and a net margin of 17.95%. The businesss revenue was up 17.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.97 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that WEC Energy Group, Inc. will post 5.23 EPS for the current fiscal year. The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 1st. Shareholders of record on Thursday, August 14th will be given a dividend of $0.8925 per share. This represents a $3.57 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.32%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, August 14th. WEC Energy Groups payout ratio is 69.59%. Insider Buying and Selling at WEC Energy Group In related news, VP Joshua M. Erickson sold 2,155 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, May 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $107.77, for a total transaction of $232,244.35. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president owned 2,686 shares in the company, valued at $289,470.22. The trade was a 44.52% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Corporate insiders own 0.50% of the companys stock. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several brokerages have issued reports on WEC. The Goldman Sachs Group lowered WEC Energy Group from a neutral rating to a sell rating and dropped their target price for the company from $106.00 to $100.00 in a research report on Wednesday, June 25th. Barclays boosted their price objective on WEC Energy Group from $99.00 to $101.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, April 29th. Wall Street Zen lowered WEC Energy Group from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Saturday, July 12th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised shares of WEC Energy Group from an underweight rating to a neutral rating and boosted their target price for the company from $106.00 to $108.00 in a research note on Tuesday, April 8th. Finally, UBS Group upped their price target on shares of WEC Energy Group from $105.00 to $107.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, July 11th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $106.40. Read Our Latest Report on WEC WEC Energy Group Company Profile (Free Report) WEC Energy Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides regulated natural gas and electricity, and renewable and nonregulated renewable energy services in the United States. It operates through Wisconsin, Illinois, Other States, Electric Transmission, and Non-Utility Energy Infrastructure segments. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WEC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for WEC Energy Group, Inc. (NYSE:WEC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for WEC Energy Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for WEC Energy Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Capricorn Fund Managers Ltd lowered its stake in shares of Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER Free Report) by 10.0% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 11,213 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock after selling 1,247 shares during the period. Capricorn Fund Managers Ltds holdings in Uber Technologies were worth $817,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Transce3nd LLC bought a new position in shares of Uber Technologies during the 4th quarter valued at about $27,000. Fourth Dimension Wealth LLC bought a new position in shares of Uber Technologies during the 4th quarter valued at about $27,000. Kozak & Associates Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Uber Technologies by 155.9% during the 1st quarter. Kozak & Associates Inc. now owns 366 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock valued at $27,000 after purchasing an additional 223 shares in the last quarter. Noble Wealth Management PBC bought a new position in shares of Uber Technologies during the 1st quarter valued at about $27,000. Finally, GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Uber Technologies by 305.1% during the 1st quarter. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC now owns 397 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 299 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 80.24% of the companys stock. Get Uber Technologies alerts: Insider Transactions at Uber Technologies In other Uber Technologies news, insider Jill Hazelbaker sold 34,884 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $86.03, for a total value of $3,001,070.52. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 102,135 shares of the companys stock, valued at $8,786,674.05. This represents a 25.46% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, CFO Prashanth Mahendra-Rajah sold 2,750 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, July 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $95.00, for a total value of $261,250.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 21,975 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,087,625. The trade was a 11.12% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 40,384 shares of company stock valued at $3,496,071. Insiders own 3.84% of the companys stock. Uber Technologies Price Performance Shares of UBER stock opened at $90.56 on Tuesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.02, a current ratio of 1.02 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37. Uber Technologies, Inc. has a twelve month low of $54.84 and a twelve month high of $97.71. The company has a market cap of $189.38 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.86, a P/E/G ratio of 1.05 and a beta of 1.40. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $89.25 and a 200 day simple moving average of $79.89. Uber Technologies (NYSE:UBER Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 7th. The ride-sharing company reported $0.83 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.50 by $0.33. Uber Technologies had a return on equity of 66.46% and a net margin of 27.07%. The business had revenue of $11.53 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.61 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned ($0.32) EPS. Uber Technologiess revenue for the quarter was up 13.8% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Uber Technologies, Inc. will post 2.54 EPS for the current fiscal year. Analyst Ratings Changes Several equities analysts have recently weighed in on UBER shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on Uber Technologies from $105.00 to $110.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Friday, July 11th. Wall Street Zen upgraded Uber Technologies from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, July 18th. Piper Sandler lifted their price objective on Uber Technologies from $95.00 to $103.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, July 24th. Roth Capital lifted their target price on Uber Technologies from $93.00 to $110.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein lifted their target price on Uber Technologies from $95.00 to $110.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, July 21st. Ten equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twenty-nine have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $100.26. Read Our Latest Report on UBER Uber Technologies Company Profile (Free Report) Uber Technologies, Inc develops and operates proprietary technology applications in the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia excluding China and Southeast Asia. It operates through three segments: Mobility, Delivery, and Freight. The Mobility segment connects consumers with a range of transportation modalities, such as ridesharing, carsharing, micromobility, rentals, public transit, taxis, and other modalities; and offers riders in a variety of vehicle types, as well as financial partnerships products and advertising services. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding UBER? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Uber Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Uber Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Aon plc (NYSE:AON Free Report) Research analysts at Roth Capital lowered their Q4 2025 earnings estimates for shares of AON in a report released on Monday, July 28th. Roth Capital analyst H. Fong now forecasts that the financial services provider will post earnings per share of $4.80 for the quarter, down from their prior estimate of $4.90. The consensus estimate for AONs current full-year earnings is $17.21 per share. Get AON alerts: Several other equities analysts have also recently issued reports on AON. Wells Fargo & Company restated an overweight rating and set a $438.00 price objective (up from $436.00) on shares of AON in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. The Goldman Sachs Group raised shares of AON from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $408.00 price target for the company in a report on Tuesday, May 13th. Piper Sandler increased their price objective on shares of AON from $393.00 to $413.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday. Evercore ISI boosted their target price on shares of AON from $411.00 to $421.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday. Finally, Barclays reduced their target price on shares of AON from $415.00 to $401.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Monday, July 7th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $407.14. AON Stock Down 1.1% Shares of NYSE:AON opened at $368.70 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of $79.62 billion, a PE ratio of 30.88, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.22 and a beta of 0.84. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $358.36 and a 200 day simple moving average of $371.03. The company has a current ratio of 1.52, a quick ratio of 1.73 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.93. AON has a 12-month low of $315.02 and a 12-month high of $412.97. AON (NYSE:AON Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, July 25th. The financial services provider reported $3.49 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.40 by $0.09. AON had a net margin of 15.54% and a return on equity of 50.91%. The company had revenue of $4.16 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.16 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $2.93 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 10.5% on a year-over-year basis. Institutional Investors Weigh In On AON A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. acquired a new stake in AON in the 1st quarter valued at $28,000. Saudi Central Bank bought a new stake in AON during the first quarter worth about $31,000. Pinnacle Bancorp Inc. raised its stake in shares of AON by 56.9% in the second quarter. Pinnacle Bancorp Inc. now owns 91 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 33 shares during the last quarter. Trust Co. of Toledo NA OH acquired a new position in shares of AON in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $32,000. Finally, HHM Wealth Advisors LLC grew its position in AON by 54.7% during the 1st quarter. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 82 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $33,000 after acquiring an additional 29 shares during the last quarter. 86.14% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. AON Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 1st will be issued a $0.745 dividend. This represents a $2.98 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.81%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 1st. AONs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 24.96%. About AON (Get Free Report) Aon Plc engages in the provision of risk, health, and wealth solutions. It focuses on risk capital including claim management, reinsurance, risk analysis, management, retention, and transfer; and human capital involving analytics, health and benefits, investments, pensions and retirement, talent and rewards, and workplace wellbeing. See Also Receive News & Ratings for AON Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AON and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Harvest Fund Management Co. Ltd lifted its stake in Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) by 117.1% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 41,259 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 22,258 shares during the period. Harvest Fund Management Co. Ltds holdings in Wells Fargo & Company were worth $2,933,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Investment Counsel Co. of Nevada purchased a new position in Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter valued at about $28,000. BNP Paribas purchased a new position in Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter valued at about $28,000. Motco increased its holdings in Wells Fargo & Company by 397.6% during the 1st quarter. Motco now owns 408 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 326 shares in the last quarter. Parvin Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter valued at about $32,000. Finally, Dunhill Financial LLC increased its holdings in Wells Fargo & Company by 63.7% during the 4th quarter. Dunhill Financial LLC now owns 496 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $35,000 after acquiring an additional 193 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.90% of the companys stock. Get Wells Fargo & Company alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth WFC has been the subject of several recent research reports. TD Cowen initiated coverage on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a report on Thursday, May 15th. They set a hold rating and a $83.00 target price for the company. Cowen restated a hold rating on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a report on Wednesday, July 16th. Bank of America raised their target price on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $83.00 to $90.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, June 4th. Truist Financial lifted their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $83.00 to $86.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, July 9th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $82.00 to $73.50 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Thursday, April 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $80.39. Wells Fargo & Company Price Performance WFC opened at $83.03 on Tuesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $270.19 billion, a PE ratio of 14.22, a P/E/G ratio of 1.31 and a beta of 1.16. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.06, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a current ratio of 0.84. Wells Fargo & Company has a 1 year low of $50.15 and a 1 year high of $84.83. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $78.00 and its 200 day simple moving average is $74.72. Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, July 15th. The financial services provider reported $1.54 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.41 by $0.13. The firm had revenue of $20.82 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $20.83 billion. Wells Fargo & Company had a net margin of 16.82% and a return on equity of 12.29%. Wells Fargo & Companys revenue was up .6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $1.33 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Wells Fargo & Company will post 5.89 EPS for the current year. Wells Fargo & Company declared that its Board of Directors has authorized a share repurchase plan on Tuesday, April 29th that allows the company to buyback $40.00 billion in outstanding shares. This buyback authorization allows the financial services provider to purchase up to 17.2% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback plans are usually an indication that the companys leadership believes its stock is undervalued. Wells Fargo & Company Company Profile (Free Report) Wells Fargo & Co is a diversified and community-based financial services company, which engages in the provision of banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance products and services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth and Investment Management. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WFC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Wells Fargo & Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Wells Fargo & Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. FSA Advisors Inc. raised its position in DTE Energy Company (NYSE:DTE Free Report) by 157.5% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 11,594 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 7,092 shares during the quarter. DTE Energy comprises approximately 1.3% of FSA Advisors Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 13th biggest holding. FSA Advisors Inc.s holdings in DTE Energy were worth $1,603,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Federated Hermes Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of DTE Energy by 179.9% in the first quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. now owns 42,257 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $5,843,000 after acquiring an additional 27,160 shares in the last quarter. N.E.W. Advisory Services LLC bought a new stake in DTE Energy during the first quarter worth approximately $31,000. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in DTE Energy by 117.3% during the first quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 5,644 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $780,000 after buying an additional 3,047 shares in the last quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp boosted its holdings in DTE Energy by 21.6% during the first quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 23,185 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $3,206,000 after buying an additional 4,120 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Carrera Capital Advisors bought a new stake in DTE Energy during the first quarter worth approximately $304,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 76.06% of the companys stock. Get DTE Energy alerts: DTE Energy Stock Down 1.3% Shares of DTE stock opened at $137.55 on Tuesday. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $134.36 and a 200-day moving average of $131.97. The company has a quick ratio of 0.59, a current ratio of 0.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.82. DTE Energy Company has a 12-month low of $115.59 and a 12-month high of $140.39. The company has a market capitalization of $28.54 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.59, a P/E/G ratio of 2.77 and a beta of 0.44. DTE Energy Announces Dividend DTE Energy ( NYSE:DTE Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The utilities provider reported $2.10 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.98 by $0.12. DTE Energy had a net margin of 11.25% and a return on equity of 13.00%. The firm had revenue of $3.37 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.33 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.67 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts predict that DTE Energy Company will post 7.18 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Shareholders of record on Monday, September 15th will be paid a $1.09 dividend. This represents a $4.36 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.17%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, September 15th. DTE Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 58.92%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts recently weighed in on DTE shares. BMO Capital Markets raised their target price on shares of DTE Energy from $135.00 to $142.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a report on Monday, April 21st. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of DTE Energy from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Friday, May 16th. Morgan Stanley decreased their price objective on shares of DTE Energy from $136.00 to $134.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, May 22nd. Evercore ISI raised their price objective on shares of DTE Energy from $136.00 to $145.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, May 2nd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company raised their price target on shares of DTE Energy from $145.00 to $154.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Friday, May 2nd. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating and ten have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $141.53. View Our Latest Analysis on DTE About DTE Energy (Free Report) DTE Energy Company engages in the utility operations. The company's Electric segment generates, purchases, distributes, and sells electricity to various residential, commercial, and industrial customers in southeastern Michigan. It generates electricity through coal-fired plants, hydroelectric pumped storage, and nuclear plants, as well as wind and solar assets. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for DTE Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for DTE Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Galvin Gaustad & Stein LLC increased its position in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF (BATS:QUAL Free Report) by 11.2% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 2,041 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 206 shares during the quarter. Galvin Gaustad & Stein LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF were worth $349,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of QUAL. OVERSEA CHINESE BANKING Corp Ltd raised its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 2,898.7% in the 1st quarter. OVERSEA CHINESE BANKING Corp Ltd now owns 7,622,243 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,302,565,000 after purchasing an additional 7,368,058 shares during the period. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. raised its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 9.3% in the 1st quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 31,853,469 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,443,439,000 after purchasing an additional 2,711,718 shares during the period. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec bought a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $349,393,000. LPL Financial LLC raised its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 7.8% in the 1st quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 18,186,643 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,107,915,000 after acquiring an additional 1,318,823 shares during the period. Finally, Orgel Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 46.9% in the 1st quarter. Orgel Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,883,917 shares of the companys stock valued at $321,943,000 after acquiring an additional 601,089 shares during the period. Get iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF alerts: iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF Stock Up 5.7% iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF stock opened at $186.78 on Tuesday. The stock has a market cap of $54.16 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.59 and a beta of 1.05. iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF has a twelve month low of $148.34 and a twelve month high of $187.26. The companys 50-day moving average price is $180.83 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $176.67. iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF Company Profile The iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF (QUAL) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Sector Neutral Quality index. The fund tracks an index of US large- and mid-cap stocks, selected and weighted by high ROE, stable earnings growth and low debt\u002Fequity, relative to peers in each sector. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. A high-level meeting was held at the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) with top executives of banks represented on the Presidium of the Azerbaijan Banks Association (ABA), the institution announced, Azernews reports citing a post shared by CBA Governor Taleh Kazimov, on his official X account. The Governor shared details of the meeting and noted that the discussions focused on the performance indicators and development trends of the banking sector during the first half of the year. Participants also exchanged views on strategic priorities for the upcoming period, as well as other key issues currently on the sectors agenda. The meeting reflects the CBAs ongoing efforts to engage with the countrys financial institutions and ensure coordinated development of the banking system. Bronte Capital, an investment management company, released its Amalthea Fund second-quarter 2025 investor letter. A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. The fund returned -4.38% in June and -5.14% in the quarter vs. MSCI ACWI's +2.14% return in June and +5.89% return in the quarter. The second quarter started with the Liberation Day tariffs announcement. Initially, the market fell sharply and later recovered entirely and is now at all-time highs. Please review the fund's top 5 holdings to gain insight into their key selections for 2025. In its second quarter 2025 investor letter, Bronte Capital Amalthea Fund highlighted stocks such as Amrize Ltd (NYSE:AMRZ). Amrize Ltd (NYSE:AMRZ) is a building materials company in North America. The one-month return of Amrize Ltd (NYSE:AMRZ) was 3.19%. On July 28, 2025, Amrize Ltd (NYSE:AMRZ) stock closed at $51.13 per share, with a market capitalization of $28.26 billion. Bronte Capital Amalthea Fund stated the following regarding Amrize Ltd (NYSE:AMRZ) in its second quarter 2025 investor letter: "Despite all this we went and purchased a small stake in Holcim. It is not a big position, and it never will be. So why now? Well two reasons a). the Swiss company has improved and b). the American division of the Swiss company (now a separately listed company called Amrize Ltd (NYSE:AMRZ)) looks fabulous to us. Why Amentum Holdings Inc. (AMTM) Went Up On Wednesday? A crane carrying heavy building materials, representing the robust civil engineering products of the company. Amrize Ltd (NYSE:AMRZ) is not on our list of 30 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. While we acknowledge the potential of Amrize Ltd (NYSE:AMRZ) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. In addition, please check out our hedge fund investor letters Q2 2025 page for more investor letters from hedge funds and other leading investors. JSF Financial LLC bought a new position in shares of Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM Free Report) during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor bought 4,720 shares of the business services providers stock, valued at approximately $1,093,000. Several other large investors also recently modified their holdings of WM. Westend Capital Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Waste Management by 126.9% during the 1st quarter. Westend Capital Management LLC now owns 118 shares of the business services providers stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 66 shares in the last quarter. Transce3nd LLC acquired a new position in shares of Waste Management during the 4th quarter worth $28,000. West Branch Capital LLC raised its holdings in shares of Waste Management by 69.0% during the 1st quarter. West Branch Capital LLC now owns 120 shares of the business services providers stock worth $28,000 after buying an additional 49 shares in the last quarter. Hurley Capital LLC acquired a new position in shares of Waste Management during the 4th quarter worth $34,000. Finally, Adalta Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Waste Management during the 4th quarter worth $40,000. 80.40% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Waste Management alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities analysts have recently commented on the company. National Bank Financial raised Waste Management to a hold rating in a report on Monday, May 26th. Seaport Res Ptn raised Waste Management to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, May 6th. CIBC boosted their price target on Waste Management from $244.00 to $250.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, June 26th. William Blair reissued an outperform rating on shares of Waste Management in a report on Wednesday, June 25th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded Waste Management from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 29th. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, thirteen have issued a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $252.41. Waste Management Trading Down 0.7% NYSE WM opened at $228.14 on Tuesday. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $231.74 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $227.73. Waste Management, Inc. has a 12 month low of $197.43 and a 12 month high of $242.58. The firm has a market capitalization of $91.80 billion, a PE ratio of 34.41, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.84 and a beta of 0.64. The company has a current ratio of 0.83, a quick ratio of 0.79 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.65. Waste Management (NYSE:WM Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Monday, July 28th. The business services provider reported $1.92 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.89 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $6.43 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $6.37 billion. Waste Management had a return on equity of 35.67% and a net margin of 11.67%. The businesss revenue was up 19.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.82 EPS. On average, analysts expect that Waste Management, Inc. will post 7.7 EPS for the current year. Waste Management Announces Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 20th. Stockholders of record on Friday, June 6th were paid a $0.825 dividend. This represents a $3.30 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.45%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 6th. Waste Managements dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 49.77%. Insider Activity at Waste Management In other news, SVP Rafael Carrasco sold 674 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, May 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $236.81, for a total value of $159,609.94. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president directly owned 16,542 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,917,311.02. This represents a 3.91% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CFO Devina A. Rankin sold 57,888 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, May 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $237.36, for a total value of $13,740,295.68. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 83,934 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $19,922,574.24. This represents a 40.82% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 0.18% of the companys stock. Waste Management Profile (Free Report) Waste Management, Inc, through its subsidiaries, engages in the provision of environmental solutions to residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers in the United States and Canada. It offers collection services, including picking up and transporting waste and recyclable materials from where it was generated to a transfer station, material recovery facility (MRF), or disposal site; and owns and operates transfer stations, as well as owns, develops, and operates landfill facilities that produce landfill gas used as renewable natural gas for generating electricity. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Waste Management Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Waste Management and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Williams Companies, Inc. (The) (NYSE:WMB Free Report) Analysts at US Capital Advisors cut their Q2 2025 earnings per share estimates for shares of Williams Companies in a note issued to investors on Monday, July 28th. US Capital Advisors analyst J. Carreker now forecasts that the pipeline company will post earnings of $0.46 per share for the quarter, down from their previous estimate of $0.48. The consensus estimate for Williams Companies current full-year earnings is $2.08 per share. US Capital Advisors also issued estimates for Williams Companies Q1 2026 earnings at $0.59 EPS. Get Williams Companies alerts: Williams Companies (NYSE:WMB Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, May 5th. The pipeline company reported $0.60 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.55 by $0.05. The business had revenue of $3.05 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.90 billion. Williams Companies had a return on equity of 15.95% and a net margin of 21.18%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 10.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $0.59 EPS. WMB has been the subject of several other reports. Scotiabank increased their price target on Williams Companies from $59.00 to $60.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Tuesday, July 15th. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued an outperform rating and issued a $63.00 price objective on shares of Williams Companies in a research report on Tuesday, July 15th. Wells Fargo & Company upped their price objective on shares of Williams Companies from $64.00 to $67.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 28th. TD Cowen assumed coverage on shares of Williams Companies in a research report on Monday, July 7th. They issued a buy rating and a $67.00 price objective for the company. Finally, Wolfe Research raised shares of Williams Companies from an underperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research report on Friday, June 13th. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $61.77. Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on WMB Williams Companies Stock Down 0.6% Shares of NYSE WMB opened at $57.50 on Tuesday. Williams Companies has a 12-month low of $40.41 and a 12-month high of $63.45. The company has a market cap of $70.11 billion, a P/E ratio of 30.75, a P/E/G ratio of 1.92 and a beta of 0.65. The company has a current ratio of 0.40, a quick ratio of 0.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.63. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $59.34 and a 200 day moving average price of $58.23. Insider Buying and Selling at Williams Companies In other news, SVP Terrance Lane Wilson sold 2,000 shares of Williams Companies stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, July 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $62.70, for a total transaction of $125,400.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president owned 315,645 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $19,790,941.50. The trade was a 0.63% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.44% of the companys stock. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Williams Companies A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Flaharty Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in Williams Companies during the first quarter worth approximately $25,000. Menard Financial Group LLC purchased a new position in Williams Companies during the 4th quarter worth approximately $26,000. HWG Holdings LP purchased a new position in Williams Companies during the 1st quarter worth approximately $26,000. Hoey Investments Inc. purchased a new position in Williams Companies during the 4th quarter worth approximately $28,000. Finally, Saudi Central Bank purchased a new position in Williams Companies during the 1st quarter worth approximately $29,000. Institutional investors own 86.44% of the companys stock. About Williams Companies (Get Free Report) The Williams Companies, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an energy infrastructure company primarily in the United States. It operates through Transmission & Gulf of Mexico, Northeast G&P, West, and Gas & NGL Marketing Services segments. The Transmission & Gulf of Mexico segment comprises natural gas pipelines; Transco, Northwest pipeline, MountainWest, and related natural gas storage facilities; and natural gas gathering and processing, and crude oil production handling and transportation assets in the Gulf Coast region. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Williams Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Williams Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Meeder Asset Management Inc. boosted its position in EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG Free Report) by 182.7% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 125,873 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after purchasing an additional 81,343 shares during the quarter. EOG Resources comprises about 1.1% of Meeder Asset Management Inc.s holdings, making the stock its 20th largest position. Meeder Asset Management Inc.s holdings in EOG Resources were worth $16,142,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in EOG. Alpine Bank Wealth Management acquired a new position in EOG Resources in the 1st quarter valued at about $34,000. Ameriflex Group Inc. acquired a new position in shares of EOG Resources during the 4th quarter valued at about $36,000. 10Elms LLP acquired a new position in shares of EOG Resources during the 4th quarter valued at about $44,000. Hanson & Doremus Investment Management acquired a new position in shares of EOG Resources during the 1st quarter valued at about $51,000. Finally, Golden State Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 204.4% during the 1st quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 411 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $53,000 after acquiring an additional 276 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.91% of the companys stock. Get EOG Resources alerts: Insider Transactions at EOG Resources In other news, COO Jeffrey R. Leitzell sold 3,951 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $119.65, for a total transaction of $472,737.15. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer owned 45,739 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,472,671.35. This trade represents a 7.95% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. 0.13% of the stock is owned by company insiders. EOG Resources Stock Up 2.7% Shares of NYSE:EOG opened at $121.58 on Tuesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.71, a current ratio of 1.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12. EOG Resources, Inc. has a 52-week low of $102.52 and a 52-week high of $138.18. The company has a 50 day moving average of $118.23 and a two-hundred day moving average of $120.86. The company has a market capitalization of $66.36 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.28, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 9.10 and a beta of 0.76. EOG Resources (NYSE:EOG Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 1st. The energy exploration company reported $2.87 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.75 by $0.12. EOG Resources had a net margin of 26.14% and a return on equity of 22.35%. The company had revenue of $5.84 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.92 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $2.82 earnings per share. EOG Resourcess revenue for the quarter was down 7.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts forecast that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.47 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. EOG Resources Increases Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 31st. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 17th will be given a $1.02 dividend. This is an increase from EOG Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.98. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, October 17th. This represents a $4.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.36%. EOG Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 36.18%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms have recently commented on EOG. Bank of America dropped their price objective on shares of EOG Resources from $125.00 to $124.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Friday, May 23rd. Scotiabank raised shares of EOG Resources from a sector perform rating to a sector outperform rating and dropped their price objective for the company from $150.00 to $130.00 in a research note on Friday, April 11th. Barclays upped their price objective on shares of EOG Resources from $137.00 to $140.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, June 2nd. Mizuho dropped their price objective on shares of EOG Resources from $140.00 to $134.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, May 13th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $148.00 price objective (up previously from $144.00) on shares of EOG Resources in a research note on Friday, June 13th. Twelve research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nine have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $140.62. Read Our Latest Analysis on EOG Resources EOG Resources Profile (Free Report) EOG Resources, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, explores for, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas primarily in producing basins in the United States, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and internationally. The company was formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Company. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EOG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for EOG Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EOG Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Premier Fund Managers Ltd acquired a new position in Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS Free Report) in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm acquired 60,400 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $6,964,000. Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Alley Investment Management Company LLC boosted its holdings in Morgan Stanley by 75.0% in the 1st quarter. Alley Investment Management Company LLC now owns 62,469 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $7,288,000 after buying an additional 26,763 shares during the period. Ethic Inc. boosted its holdings in Morgan Stanley by 35.8% in the 4th quarter. Ethic Inc. now owns 162,269 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $20,400,000 after buying an additional 42,743 shares during the period. Pamalican Asset Management Ltd bought a new position in Morgan Stanley in the 4th quarter worth approximately $4,513,000. Alpha DNA Investment Management LLC boosted its holdings in Morgan Stanley by 112.0% in the 4th quarter. Alpha DNA Investment Management LLC now owns 39,921 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $5,019,000 after buying an additional 21,090 shares during the period. Finally, Capital Advisors Inc. OK boosted its holdings in Morgan Stanley by 2.3% in the 1st quarter. Capital Advisors Inc. OK now owns 503,118 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $58,699,000 after buying an additional 11,332 shares during the period. 84.19% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Morgan Stanley alerts: Insider Transactions at Morgan Stanley In other Morgan Stanley news, CFO Sharon Yeshaya sold 25,583 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, July 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $139.81, for a total value of $3,576,759.23. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 128,662 shares in the company, valued at approximately $17,988,234.22. The trade was a 16.59% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, insider Michael A. Pizzi sold 18,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, July 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $140.62, for a total transaction of $2,531,160.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 136,407 shares in the company, valued at $19,181,552.34. The trade was a 11.66% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders have sold 188,949 shares of company stock valued at $25,737,084. Company insiders own 0.19% of the companys stock. Analyst Ratings Changes Several research analysts have commented on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group raised their price target on shares of Morgan Stanley from $121.00 to $136.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, June 10th. Bank of America cut their price target on shares of Morgan Stanley from $150.00 to $144.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, April 2nd. Citigroup reissued a neutral rating and issued a $130.00 price target (up from $125.00) on shares of Morgan Stanley in a report on Wednesday, June 18th. JMP Securities reissued a market perform rating on shares of Morgan Stanley in a report on Monday, April 14th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised shares of Morgan Stanley from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and raised their price target for the company from $127.00 to $160.00 in a report on Wednesday, July 9th. Nine research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, five have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $138.25. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Morgan Stanley Morgan Stanley Price Performance Shares of NYSE:MS opened at $142.46 on Tuesday. The stock has a market cap of $228.55 billion, a PE ratio of 16.13, a PEG ratio of 1.80 and a beta of 1.30. The companys fifty day moving average is $135.60 and its 200 day moving average is $127.88. Morgan Stanley has a 52 week low of $90.94 and a 52 week high of $145.16. The company has a quick ratio of 0.78, a current ratio of 0.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.11. Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, July 16th. The financial services provider reported $2.13 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.98 by $0.15. The company had revenue of $16.79 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $16.15 billion. Morgan Stanley had a net margin of 13.06% and a return on equity of 15.33%. The firms revenue was up 11.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.82 EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Morgan Stanley will post 8.56 earnings per share for the current year. Morgan Stanley declared that its board has initiated a share repurchase plan on Tuesday, July 1st that permits the company to repurchase $20.00 billion in outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization permits the financial services provider to buy up to 8.9% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are typically a sign that the companys management believes its shares are undervalued. Morgan Stanley Increases Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, July 31st will be given a $1.00 dividend. This is a boost from Morgan Stanleys previous quarterly dividend of $0.93. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 31st. This represents a $4.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.81%. Morgan Stanleys payout ratio is presently 45.30%. Morgan Stanley Company Profile (Free Report) Morgan Stanley, a financial holding company, provides various financial products and services to corporations, governments, financial institutions, and individuals in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. It operates through Institutional Securities, Wealth Management, and Investment Management segments. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Morgan Stanley Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Morgan Stanley and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. FOCUS Wealth Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) by 5.4% during the first quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 23,525 shares of the financial services providers stock after buying an additional 1,215 shares during the quarter. FOCUS Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in Wells Fargo & Company were worth $1,689,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of WFC. Capital Research Global Investors lifted its position in Wells Fargo & Company by 932.0% in the 4th quarter. Capital Research Global Investors now owns 15,734,874 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,105,218,000 after acquiring an additional 14,210,193 shares in the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA lifted its position in Wells Fargo & Company by 277.4% in the 1st quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 10,740,934 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $771,092,000 after acquiring an additional 7,894,919 shares in the last quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC lifted its position in Wells Fargo & Company by 7,887.9% in the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 3,393,083 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $243,589,000 after acquiring an additional 3,350,605 shares in the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp lifted its position in Wells Fargo & Company by 10.7% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 34,339,295 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $2,411,992,000 after acquiring an additional 3,307,855 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH bought a new position in Wells Fargo & Company in the 4th quarter valued at about $198,801,000. Institutional investors own 75.90% of the companys stock. Get Wells Fargo & Company alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several equities analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Piper Sandler reaffirmed an overweight rating on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a research report on Tuesday, July 8th. Dbs Bank raised shares of Wells Fargo & Company from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating in a research report on Thursday, July 17th. Barclays dropped their price target on Wells Fargo & Company from $92.00 to $87.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, April 14th. Cowen reiterated a hold rating on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a research note on Wednesday, July 16th. Finally, Bank of America increased their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $83.00 to $90.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, June 4th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating and eleven have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $80.39. Wells Fargo & Company Stock Performance Wells Fargo & Company stock opened at $83.03 on Tuesday. The firms fifty day moving average price is $78.00 and its 200-day moving average price is $74.72. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.06, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a current ratio of 0.84. The stock has a market cap of $270.19 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.22, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.31 and a beta of 1.16. Wells Fargo & Company has a fifty-two week low of $50.15 and a fifty-two week high of $84.83. Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 15th. The financial services provider reported $1.54 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.41 by $0.13. The firm had revenue of $20.82 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $20.83 billion. Wells Fargo & Company had a net margin of 16.82% and a return on equity of 12.29%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up .6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.33 EPS. On average, equities research analysts expect that Wells Fargo & Company will post 5.89 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Wells Fargo & Company announced that its Board of Directors has initiated a share repurchase program on Tuesday, April 29th that permits the company to repurchase $40.00 billion in outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization permits the financial services provider to buy up to 17.2% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares repurchase programs are often an indication that the companys leadership believes its shares are undervalued. Wells Fargo & Company Profile (Free Report) Wells Fargo & Co is a diversified and community-based financial services company, which engages in the provision of banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance products and services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth and Investment Management. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WFC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Wells Fargo & Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Wells Fargo & Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hurley Capital LLC purchased a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS Free Report) during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 81 shares of the investment management companys stock, valued at approximately $44,000. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. SLT Holdings LLC bought a new stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group during the 1st quarter worth about $207,000. Patten & Patten Inc. TN raised its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 12.4% in the 1st quarter. Patten & Patten Inc. TN now owns 4,188 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $2,288,000 after purchasing an additional 463 shares in the last quarter. Evermay Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 88.5% in the 1st quarter. Evermay Wealth Management LLC now owns 213 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $116,000 after purchasing an additional 100 shares in the last quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC raised its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 476.3% in the 1st quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 47,923 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $26,180,000 after purchasing an additional 39,608 shares in the last quarter. Finally, KFA Private Wealth Group LLC raised its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 5.9% in the 1st quarter. KFA Private Wealth Group LLC now owns 378 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $206,000 after purchasing an additional 21 shares in the last quarter. 71.21% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get The Goldman Sachs Group alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades GS has been the topic of a number of research reports. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $650.00 to $785.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, July 8th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, July 12th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated a sector perform rating on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a report on Thursday, July 10th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods boosted their target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $771.00 to $790.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, Evercore ISI set a $715.00 target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, July 10th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have assigned a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, The Goldman Sachs Group presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $660.00. Insider Activity at The Goldman Sachs Group In related news, EVP John F.W. Rogers sold 6,008 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, July 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $717.39, for a total value of $4,310,079.12. Following the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 65,761 shares in the company, valued at approximately $47,176,283.79. This trade represents a 8.37% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, CFO Denis P. Coleman sold 7,463 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, July 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $724.40, for a total transaction of $5,406,197.20. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 18,594 shares in the company, valued at $13,469,493.60. The trade was a 28.64% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders have sold 20,079 shares of company stock worth $14,423,221. 0.55% of the stock is owned by insiders. The Goldman Sachs Group Price Performance NYSE GS opened at $723.85 on Tuesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.68, a current ratio of 1.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.26. The stock has a market capitalization of $222.11 billion, a PE ratio of 15.95, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.55 and a beta of 1.35. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $659.83 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $607.08. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 12-month low of $437.37 and a 12-month high of $732.52. The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, July 16th. The investment management company reported $10.91 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $9.82 by $1.09. The firm had revenue of $14.58 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.53 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a net margin of 12.37% and a return on equity of 13.84%. The companys revenue was up 14.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $8.62 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts predict that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The Goldman Sachs Group Increases Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Investors of record on Friday, August 29th will be paid a $4.00 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 29th. This is a positive change from The Goldman Sachs Groups previous quarterly dividend of $3.00. This represents a $16.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.21%. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 35.26%. The Goldman Sachs Group Company Profile (Free Report) The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in financing under securities to resale agreements. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding GS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC cut its holdings in American Express Company (NYSE:AXP Free Report) by 0.9% in the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 15,770 shares of the payment services companys stock after selling 142 shares during the quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLCs holdings in American Express were worth $4,243,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Solidarity Wealth LLC acquired a new stake in American Express in the first quarter valued at approximately $2,845,000. Lazard Freres Gestion S.A.S. lifted its stake in American Express by 15.2% in the first quarter. Lazard Freres Gestion S.A.S. now owns 8,360 shares of the payment services companys stock valued at $2,249,000 after acquiring an additional 1,102 shares during the last quarter. Baldwin Investment Management LLC raised its position in shares of American Express by 44.2% in the first quarter. Baldwin Investment Management LLC now owns 6,687 shares of the payment services companys stock valued at $1,799,000 after purchasing an additional 2,050 shares during the period. Mackenzie Financial Corp lifted its stake in shares of American Express by 6.6% in the first quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 60,634 shares of the payment services companys stock worth $16,314,000 after buying an additional 3,776 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Sheaff Brock Investment Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of American Express by 1.0% during the 1st quarter. Sheaff Brock Investment Advisors LLC now owns 39,350 shares of the payment services companys stock worth $10,587,000 after buying an additional 381 shares during the period. 84.33% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get American Express alerts: Insider Activity at American Express In other news, insider Howard Grosfield sold 9,450 shares of American Express stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, May 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $275.50, for a total transaction of $2,603,475.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider owned 9,402 shares in the company, valued at $2,590,251. The trade was a 50.13% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. 0.20% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research firms recently issued reports on AXP. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on shares of American Express from $260.00 to $342.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, July 11th. Citigroup reaffirmed a neutral rating and set a $327.00 price objective (up from $300.00) on shares of American Express in a report on Wednesday, July 2nd. Royal Bank Of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of American Express in a report on Monday, July 14th. Bank of America raised shares of American Express from a neutral rating to a buy rating and decreased their price objective for the stock from $325.00 to $274.00 in a report on Friday, April 11th. Finally, Truist Financial upped their price objective on shares of American Express from $335.00 to $340.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, July 9th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, sixteen have issued a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, American Express has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $311.05. View Our Latest Research Report on American Express American Express Trading Down 0.3% AXP opened at $310.65 on Tuesday. The company has a current ratio of 1.61, a quick ratio of 1.60 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.80. The stock has a market capitalization of $216.18 billion, a PE ratio of 21.80, a PEG ratio of 1.65 and a beta of 1.25. American Express Company has a 1-year low of $220.43 and a 1-year high of $329.14. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $305.14 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $291.32. American Express (NYSE:AXP Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, July 18th. The payment services company reported $4.08 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.86 by $0.22. The firm had revenue of $17.86 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $17.70 billion. American Express had a net margin of 14.78% and a return on equity of 32.87%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 9.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $3.49 EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that American Express Company will post 15.33 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. American Express Announces Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 8th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, July 3rd will be given a dividend of $0.82 per share. This represents a $3.28 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.06%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, July 3rd. American Expresss dividend payout ratio is 23.02%. American Express Company Profile (Free Report) American Express Company, together with its subsidiaries, operates as integrated payments company in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the Asia Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Latin America, Canada, the Caribbean, and Internationally. It operates through four segments: U.S. Consumer Services, Commercial Services, International Card Services, and Global Merchant and Network Services. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for American Express Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for American Express and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Meeder Advisory Services Inc. increased its position in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM Free Report) by 12.3% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 29,560 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 3,238 shares during the period. Meeder Advisory Services Inc.s holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $4,692,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in PM. Capital World Investors grew its holdings in Philip Morris International by 3.6% during the 4th quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 122,584,210 shares of the companys stock worth $14,752,926,000 after acquiring an additional 4,216,586 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 9.9% in the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 35,286,582 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,241,837,000 after buying an additional 3,185,258 shares during the period. Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 3.1% in the 4th quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 17,276,790 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,079,262,000 after buying an additional 516,617 shares during the period. Franklin Resources Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 9.6% in the 4th quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 14,249,131 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,714,883,000 after buying an additional 1,248,561 shares during the period. Finally, Northern Trust Corp boosted its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 11.0% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 13,630,177 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,640,392,000 after buying an additional 1,347,503 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 78.63% of the companys stock. Get Philip Morris International alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth PM has been the subject of several research reports. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an overweight rating and issued a $182.00 price target (up from $156.00) on shares of Philip Morris International in a report on Thursday, April 24th. Needham & Company LLC reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $195.00 price target on shares of Philip Morris International in a report on Wednesday, July 23rd. UBS Group lifted their price target on shares of Philip Morris International from $170.00 to $181.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Monday, July 14th. Bank of America lifted their price target on shares of Philip Morris International from $182.00 to $200.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, June 4th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group initiated coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a report on Wednesday, July 9th. They issued a buy rating and a $220.00 price target for the company. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $186.73. Philip Morris International Stock Down 2.0% Philip Morris International stock opened at $157.66 on Tuesday. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $178.55 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $160.95. The firm has a market capitalization of $245.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.97, a PEG ratio of 2.34 and a beta of 0.51. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 52-week low of $112.43 and a 52-week high of $186.69. Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, July 22nd. The company reported $1.91 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.86 by $0.05. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 10.57% and a negative return on equity of 120.86%. The company had revenue of $10.14 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.33 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $1.59 EPS. Philip Morris Internationals revenue was up 7.1% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts expect that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 earnings per share for the current year. Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 27th were given a dividend of $1.35 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 27th. This represents a $5.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.43%. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 102.66%. Philip Morris International Profile (Free Report) Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Philip Morris International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Philip Morris International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Brazilian bank BTG Pactual has brokered a deal to acquire HSBC's operations in Uruguay, marking its entry into the Uruguayan market. The deal, valued at $175m, encompasses both equity and additional equity instruments, with adjustments to be made based on changes in equity until the transaction is finalised. At the end of 2024, HSBC operated five branches in Uruguay, with a net worth of $144m and $47m in additional capital instruments, totalling $191m in capital. Following the acquisition, BTG Pactual plans to provide a range of services in retail banking, corporate and SME lending, investment banking, and wealth management for individuals and businesses in Uruguay. Rodrigo Goes, a partner at BTG Pactual, will oversee operations in the country, leveraging his experience from the bank's activities in other Latin American nations, including Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Chile, and Argentina. BTG Pactual CEO Roberto Sallouti said: The acquisition of HSBC in Uruguay is an important part of our internationalisation strategy and strengthens our presence in the region. We want to be the bank of Latin Americans, with the full service offer and the quality already recognised of BTG Pactual. We continue to grow in a solid and consistent way and will bring solutions that add security, technology and excellence to the Uruguayan market. The completion of the acquisition is contingent upon meeting specific conditions, including obtaining necessary regulatory approvals. BTG Pactual has been actively expanding its international footprint, having initiated the acquisition of M.Y. Safra, a bank based in the US, to enhance services for Latin Americans in that region. The bank also established BTG Pactual Europe after acquiring FIS Privatbank in Luxembourg, further solidifying its presence in Europe, with offices in Portugal, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Headquartered in Brazil, BTG Pactual offers financial solutions across various sectors, including investment banking, corporate and SME lending, sales and trading, asset management, and personal banking. The BTG Pactual Group also holds investments in several subsidiaries, including Banco PAN, its consumer banking division. "BTG Pactual to acquire HSBC operations in Uruguay for $175m" was originally created and published by Retail Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. The US Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that Cadence Design Systems has agreed to plead guilty and pay more than $140m in penalties for exporting semiconductor design tools to a Chinese military university. The company based in San Jose, California, will pay nearly $118m in criminal penalties. This follows its admission of violating export controls by selling electronic design automation (EDA) technology to the National University of Defense Technology (NUDT), which is associated with China's Central Military Commission. National Security Assistant Attorney General John Eisenberg said: Cadence has agreed to accept responsibility for unlawfully exporting sensitive semiconductor design tools to a restricted Chinese military university and has implemented a strong export compliance programme to help prevent any further illegal transmission of American technology. American ingenuity is one of our Nations most precious assets, and the National Security Division will vigorously enforce US export control laws to protect the technological advantage we enjoy because of that ingenuity. NUDT, added to the US Department of Commerces Entity List in 2015, is believed to have used US-origin components to develop supercomputers for military purposes. From February 2015 to April 2021, Cadence and its subsidiary in China exported EDA tools without obtaining necessary licences, despite knowing NUDTs status on the Entity List. Cadence's court documents reveal employees facilitated exports to NUDT through Central South CAD Center (CSCC), an alias for the Chinese university. The company continued transactions until September 2020 when it ended its relationship with CSCC due to its ties with NUDT. The US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) also announced a parallel civil enforcement settlement, with Cadence agreeing to pay over $95m in civil penalties. Further investigation revealed that employees concealed exports true destination from Cadences compliance personnel, said the DOJ. The employees also used aliases in communications to avoid detection. Additionally, Cadence transferred contracts from CSCC to Phytium Technology, another entity linked with NUDT. This was before placing Phytium on export hold in March 2021. Following the DOJ and BIS crediting Cadence's payments under the coordinated agreements, the company will pay a total of over $140m in combined net criminal and civil penalties and forfeiture. The resolution awaits approval from a federal judge in the Northern District of California. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and BIS's Office of Export Enforcement conducted investigations into the case. Defendants have been convicted in Beirut of the killing of an Irish peacekeeper in 2022, the Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs has said. Sean Rooney, 24, from Newtowncunningham in Co Donegal, was killed when a convoy of Irish troops serving with a UN peacekeeping force was ambushed and fired upon on December 14 2022. The shooting happened near the town of Al-Aqbiya in the south of Lebanon, a stronghold of Hezbollah. Pte Rooney, from the 121 Infantry Battalion of the Defence Forces, was killed. The Military Tribunal in Beirut for those indicted for the murder of Private Sean Rooney has concluded. This is an incredibly difficult day for the family of Private Rooney. None of us can fathom their unimaginable pain & grief and all my thoughts remain with them at this time pic.twitter.com/MKt1BHX2eY Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) July 28, 2025 On Monday, Simon Harris said he had been informed of the completion of a military tribunal in Beirut for those indicted for the murder of Pte Rooney. I welcome the conviction of the main defendant and a number of the other defendants, who had not previously been in court, he said. While noting the sentence handed down to the main defendant, I am disappointed and share the disappointment of Pte Rooneys family at the lighter sentences imposed on a number of those convicted today. Sean Rooney made the ultimate sacrifice in the noble pursuit of peace. This is a difficult time for his family and his colleagues, especially those who were injured that night. All our thoughts are with them at this time. The Tanaiste said he pressed the case during his visit to Beirut in March during meetings with the Lebanese Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Defence. I raised, in the strongest terms, my deep frustration at the slow pace of proceedings before the Lebanese Military Tribunal concerning those charged with Pte Rooneys killing, he said. I appreciate, therefore, the efforts of the court to bring forward the hearing date from September to today. During my visit to Beirut, I left the Lebanese ministers in no doubt as to the absolute determination of the Irish Government to ensure that those responsible for Private Rooneys death are brought to justice. I want to express my appreciation to my officials, members of the Defence Forces, Irelands Ambassador to Lebanon, Irelands Honorary Consul to Lebanon, and the Departments Lebanese lawyer, all of whom attended todays hearing along with a member of Seans family. He added: Finally, I appreciate that this is an incredibly difficult day for the family of Private Rooney. None of us can fathom their unimaginable pain and grief and all my thoughts remain with them at this time. A retired couple from Ardara, County Donegal who felt compelled to take action on the ongoing Israeli bombardment of Palestine are undertaking a Walk to the Capital. Former local GP, Dr Mireille Sweeney and her husband John came up with the idea only days before setting off. Mireille told Donegal Live: If we had thought about it, we would have been thinking about what to bring, what to do, so we just decided to set off. John explains why it is a Walk to the Capital rather than to Dublin. It can work in any country, he said. Other people can do the same thing in their own countries. We have seen this throughout history, in France, in England. Walking to the Capital is a very strong message. READ NEXT: Kerry GAA star dies days after All-Ireland final win with county plunged into sadness Their walk has already captured the imagination of people in Mireilles native France. The couple set off on Friday, July 26 and walked as far as Donegal Town. Day two saw them head to Pettigo, and onwards to Enniskillen on day three, travelling the same route as thousands of match-goers. They are en route to Belturbett on day four. Having been following news reports of the humanitarian crisis in Palestine over the last years and months, John explains why they were finally spurred into action. Mireille and myself have been driving to go for a swim every morning at 8 oclock and as we were driving down, there would always be a feature on the news about Palestine and about various peoples reactions and opinions, he said. They would always have maybe a professional healthcare worker or an NGO worker on as well, and they have been telling us, there is going to be a famine here but still, they would be quite professional. But I just really noticed this week that they were practically crying as they were relaying their information. With Mireilles background in medicine, she has been acutely aware of the huge challenges being faced by medical workers. They want to stress that their goal is to call on the Irish government to take a strong stance in relation to trade with Israel with a view to putting the country under pressure to stop the ongoing bombing and withholding humanitarian aid. The Irish government is following the EU line, said John. But what we need is for them to stand up and say no, to refuse to trade with Israel even if it means facing sanctions. I believe that if one government does that, others will quickly follow. They need to take a meaningful stance against the targeting of innocent people, of children, of healthcare workers, said John. And they need to get the aid through the border. There is no shortage of aid, it is just not getting in and that is leading to famine. John and Mireilles frustration and sadness at the Palestine situation is evident. We cannot get our heads around how the governments of the world can allow this to keep happening, said John. I have been feeling a growing anger, but now that we have started walking, the anger is subsiding because we feel like we are doing something. If anyone would like to join us along the way, they would be most welcome, especially for arriving in Dublin. The couple have set up an Instagram jmwalk4gaza account where you can follow their progress. Tragically . . . Here's a nothing answer to a game of softball played by newsies who are just happy to sweat it out with the team this summer and can't really afford to press their luck by pushing back against this town's 2nd favorite billionaire family . . . Check-it . . . Kansas City Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt confirmed team president Mark Donovans assertion that much progress had been made on both sides of the state line, but stopped short of giving a timeline for a decision. I [have] found over time with stadium situations that until theyre done, theyre not done, said Hunt. Theres a lot of work a lot of moving parts and were working through those. Certainly I would say we feel an urgency [in] bringing the process to a conclusion, but that doesnt mean I can [make it] happen in any specified period of time. Still, Hunt acknowledged that the clock is ticking. He noted that the teams lease on its current stadium ends in the spring of 2031 a bit more than five and a half years from now and constructing a new stadium typically takes four and a half to five years. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Owner Clark Hunt: Chiefs feel "urgency" on stadium selection The Chiefs have stadium options in Missouri and in Kansas. Clark Hunt: On Chiefs' stadium decision, family is 'focused on getting it right' On Monday, the Kansas City Chiefs' owner Clark Hunt said there is urgency about making a decision on the team's stadium, but he can't force it. Developing . . . Just a quick peek at moving parts as this case makes its way to SCOTUS . . . "The order from U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani, appointed by former Democratic President Barack Obama, comes one week after an initial injunction blocked only certain clinics from receiving Medicaid funds under the new law. " Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Judge blocks Trump administration's efforts to defund Planned Parenthood A federal judge says Planned Parenthood clinics nationwide must continue to be reimbursed for Medicaid funding. Behind the scenes, Kansas City elected officials are now considering drastic moves toward public transit privatization as budget cutting and union negotiations stall. To wit . . . WITH COVID CASH DISAPPEARING QUICKLY, KANSAS CITY STRUGGLES TO PAY FOR PUBLIC TRANSIT!!! Word finally made its way to our desk after union loyalists grew tired of veiled threats and sketchy questions from elected officials . . . Don't worry, it gets worse . . . Insiders fear another disastrous collab betwixt Mayor Q & former City Manager Brian Platt given the curious appearance of a JERSEY FIRM in recent presentations to council about saving money by way of public transit privatization. Meanwhile . . . The cost cutting for services continues with very little concern about money that the ATA could save if it didn't serve as a piggy bank for developers . . . But I digress . . . Here's an overview of budget/funding talks that OBVIOUSLY aren't going well . . . The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) is currently operating under a six-month contract with the city of Kansas City, Missouri, which is set to expire in the near future. This contract focuses on maintaining existing bus routes and paratransit services while the city and KCATA work out a long-term funding solution and potentially implement a fare system. The current six-month contract provides $46.7 million for KCATA operations, covering approximately two-thirds of the city's budgeted amount for the agency. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . KSHB: "Coming up with a regional solution may take more time than KC's deadline of six months." Developing . . . The latest reports tell us two things . . . EVERYBODY knew this building was dangerous . . . And . . . It's gonna have to be demolished SOON to save more people from injury or death. Here's a roundup quote and more reporting . . . Officially labeled dangerous by the city, the Family Dollar building in the 3700 block of Broadway Boulevard continues to pose a risk to the public after the northeast corner collapsed on Sunday and left the buildings structural support elements more exposed to failure including the roof, the inspection says. The roof is weakened to such an extent that it could compromise the load bearing capability of the entire roof support system, a post-collapse inspection of the building says. The additional pressure from rain, wind and snow is likely to cause the remaining parts of the roof to partially or completely collapse. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Complaint filed with 311 about Family Dollar store two days before partial collapse A complaint was filed with the City of Kansas City just two days before a roof partially collapsed at a Family Dollar store at 3726 Broadway Boulevard. KC inspector puts Family Dollar on dangerous buildings list after fatal collapse "The roof is weakened to such an extent that it could compromise the load bearing capability of the entire roof support system," the inspection report says. 'It's falling': Kansas City woman warned friends day before fatal Family Dollar collapse A Kansas City woman says she repeatedly warned friends about the sagging front of a Family Dollar building in Midtown before it collapsed Sunday, killing one man and seriously injuring another. Noah Banks, who lives in an apartment across the street from the store, said she had been watching the condition of the building for weeks. Witnesses say man was alive, medics didn't treat him after KC Family Dollar collapse Witnessses of the building collapse at Family Dollar in Kansas City raise questions about police and fire procedures, rescue efforts for man who died. Jagannath Puri tour bookings are filling fastreserve your spot today! (TRAVPR.COM) INDIA - July 29th, 2025 - Puri, Odisha | July 29, 2025 With the onset of the much-awaited winter season, MyPuriTour.com, one of the leading spiritual tour organizers in Odisha, has officially launched its exclusive Jagannath Puri Tour Packages for Winter 2025. These specially curated packages cater to pilgrims, families, and heritage lovers looking to explore Puris divine and cultural wonders at the best rates of the year. Winter is considered one of the best times to visit Puri due to the pleasant weather and various religious festivals. In line with the increasing travel demand, MyPuriTour has announced attractive deals on its signature packages, making it easier and more affordable for devotees to experience the spiritual charm of Lord Jagannath. Highlights of the Winter Tour Packages: Luxury & Budget Accommodation : From 3-star hotels to deluxe stays Local Sightseeing : Includes Jagannath Temple, Gundicha Temple, Golden Beach, Chilika Lake, and Konark Sun Temple Customized Itineraries : Options for 2N/3D, 3N/4D, and 4N/5D tours Pickup and Drop Facilities : From Bhubaneswar Railway Station or Airport Certified Tour Guides: Multilingual guides for temple tours Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit Puri The cool breeze from the Bay of Bengal, sunny days, and clear skies make winter the most comfortable season to explore coastal Odisha. Devotees throng the city to witness the rituals at Jagannath Temple, relax at Puri Beach, and take short trips to Konark and Chilika. The months from November to February offer the best blend of spiritual serenity and natural beauty. New Additions to This Seasons Tours This year, MyPuriTour has enhanced its tour experience with the following: Pattachitra Art Village Tour : Visit Raghurajpur, the traditional heritage crafts village Evening Arti Darshan Add-On : Special access to evening prayers at the Jagannath Temple Food Trail Experience : Authentic Odia cuisine guided tour including mahaprasad Chilika Boating Packages: Spot Irrawaddy dolphins and migratory birds Early Bird Offers and Discounts Customers booking their tours before September 15, 2025 can avail: Flat 20% discount on 4N/5D packages Free sightseeing in Konark for bookings over 15,000 Senior Citizen Special Offers : Additional 1000 off per person over 60 years Group Booking Discounts: Flat 2000 off on groups of 6 or more Itinerary Overview 4 Nights 5 Days Package (Sample) Day 1: Arrival in Bhubaneswar, visit Lingaraj Temple and transfer to Puri Day 2: Early morning Jagannath Temple Darshan, Puri Beach visit, Gundicha Temple Day 3: Excursion to Konark Sun Temple, Chandrabhaga Beach Day 4: Day trip to Chilika Lake, boating, bird watching Day 5: Return transfer to Bhubaneswar with stop at Dhauli and Khandagiri Caves What Customers Say "It was a blissful experience! Everything from hotel stay to temple darshan was perfectly managed by MyPuriTour. We highly recommend it for family trips." Sudha R., Hyderabad "We loved the food trail and the sunset at Chilika. A memorable winter holiday with spiritual vibes." Arvind P., Mumbai About MyPuriTour With over 10 years of experience in the travel industry, MyPuriTour.com specializes in spiritual and cultural tours across Odisha. Based in Bhubaneswar and Puri, the company prides itself on personalized service, authentic experiences, and safety for pilgrims and tourists alike. They also offer: Tailor-made pilgrimage tours Corporate travel deals Travel insurance add-ons Local cab and hotel booking support Contact Information MyPuriTour.com Bhubaneswar Office: 401, Dharma Arcade, Raghunathpur, 751024 Puri Office: 2R/2, In front of Sanskrit Collage, 752001 Email: booking@mypuritour.com Call / WhatsApp: +91 9556 9556 95 / +91 832 897 1449 Follow us on: Website: www.mypuritour.com Instagram: @mypuritour Facebook: fb.com/mypuritour ### (Reuters) -Candy and snacks giant Mars on Tuesday announced plans to invest $2 billion more in its U.S. operations through next year to bolster the company's ongoing efforts to expand manufacturing in the country. The Twix and MilkyWay chocolate maker has already invested more than $6 billion in U.S. manufacturing in the last five years and the new funding will support a $240 million facility for Nature's Bakery in Salt Lake City, Utah. The new facility, opening on Wednesday, will create over 230 new jobs in the region and have the capacity to produce about one billion candy bars every year, Mars said. "The U.S. is our biggest and most important market, and a key engine of growth for the long term not only through our legacy manufacturing footprint but also through the expansion of strategic acquisitions like Nature's Bakery, which is already scaling quickly," said Mars CFO Claus Aagaard. Many companies are doubling down on their U.S. production capabilities after the Trump administration imposed sweeping import tariffs aimed at narrowing the trade deficit and prompting multinational firms to bring manufacturing back to America. About 94% of Mars products sold in the U.S. are produced locally. The company announced a $36 billion deal to buy Pringles maker Kellanova in August, and has received approval from U.S. antitrust regulators while EU counterparts opened a full-scale investigation last month. (Reporting by Anuja Bharat Mistry in Bengaluru; Editing by Devika Syamnath) Designed with a youthful, modern feel and warm Thai hospitality, the all-inclusive lifestyle resort offers worry-free travel with everything coveredfrom dining to cultural experiences. (TRAVPR.COM) MALDIVES - July 29th, 2025 - Dusit International, one of Thailands leading hotel and property development companies, announces the opening of dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives, a vibrant new all-inclusive lifestyle resort just 7 minutes from Velana International Airport. Combining contemporary design with warm Thai hospitality, dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives is the first dusitD2-branded resort in the country and introduces a fresh, modern energy to one of the worlds most iconic destinations. The opening represents Dusits continued evolution into experience-led hospitalityoffering guests more freedom, flexibility, and personality-driven travel experiences. Speaking to us at the event about the concept development of dusitD2, Khun Siradej Donavanik, Vice President Development (Global), Dusit International, stated: dusitD2 is our upscale lifestyle brandmore youthful, fun, and a little more casual. With our all-inclusive approach, we want guests to feel completely worry-free from the moment they arrive in this island paradise. They shouldnt have to think about priceseverything is taken care of, whether its hospitality, activities, food or immersive experiences that celebrate Maldivian culture. For us, its all about delivering the full experience. dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives integrates sustainability at every level from energy-efficient systems and low-impact design to local sourcing, reef-safe amenities, and marine conservation awareness. As part of Dusits commitment to sustainability and community engagement, the resort offers guests the opportunity to learn, participate, and give back through curated experiences that connect with local nature and culture. Yogeswaran Veerasamy, General Manager of dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives, added: Our goal was to create something bold, welcoming, and refreshingly different. dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives is a place where guests can feel free to be themselves, enjoy high-quality experiences without hassle, and connect with the world or disconnect completely. We look forward to welcoming guests from around the globe to experience our playful take on island living. More Information - https://www.dusit.com/dusitd2-feydhoo/ ### Photo: Official information source of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. Bookings for the Trans-Balkan gas pipeline rose 2.6 times for August 2025, with 20% of the corridors capacity reserved during an auction on the RBP platform, Ukraines Energy Ministry said, Trend reports. The ministry said the Trans-Balkan route which enables gas imports to Ukraine via Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, and Moldova became operational thanks to previous efforts by the Ukrainian government. A new joint booking product introduced by the Energy Ministry and the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine helped cut transportation costs via the corridor by 25%, creating fresh opportunities to diversify supply sources and attract European traders to use Ukrainian underground gas storage, the ministry said. The Trans-Balkan corridor expands Ukraines access to gas from southern routes and allows purchases from new exporting countries, Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk said. It also offers attractive conditions for European traders to utilize our storage capacities. Bookings for the Trans-Balkan corridor became available starting in June, and market demand is steadily increasing. Guaranteed capacity was set at 7 million cubic metres per day by the end of 2024, with plans to raise it to 11.5 million cubic metres per day in 2025, the ministry added. Ukraine has also launched imports of Azerbaijani gas through the Trans-Balkan route for the first time. Naftogaz Group signed an initial agreement with SOCAR Energy Ukraine, part of Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR, for pilot deliveries of Azerbaijani gas via the BulgariaRomaniaUkraine corridor. The supply volume is small, but it is a strategically important step toward long-term cooperation and further diversification of sources, said Naftogaz CEO Serhiy Koretskyi. SOCAR Energy Ukraine confirmed that the pilot supply agreement was signed on July 24, adding: The gas will be transported via Bulgaria. This marks the first time Azerbaijani-origin gas is being delivered to Ukraine. Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. Following a decree signed by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, the Hamarmesha-Bibiyani road in Azerbaijan's Lerik District will be thoroughly reconstructed, Trend reports. The Hamarmesha-Bibiyani road, which links two rural settlements with a combined population of about 1,000 residents, will undergo a full renovation. The project is being funded through an initial allocation of 2 million manat ($1.1 million) from the state budget to the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads. Under the terms of the decree, the Ministry of Finance has been directed to ensure the release of funds, while the Ministry of Economy is instructed to include continued financing for the project in the draft budget for 2026 as part of the countrys public investment program. The Cabinet of Ministers has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of the decree and resolving any related administrative matters. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has signed a decree introducing changes to the State Program for the socio-economic development of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic for 2023-2027, Trend reports. The updated provisions designate several new implementing bodies responsible for various sectors of the program. Under the decree, the State Customs Committee will now be joined by the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads (AAYDA), and Azerbaijan Railways CJSC in leading efforts to accelerate customs procedures and increase freight capacity at border checkpoints in Nakhchivan. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has signed a law introducing amendments to legislation governing investment activity on artificial land areas in Azerbaijan, Trend reports. The changes affect the civil, criminal, and administrative offenses codes, as well as several key laws, including those on information and its protection, state duty, advertising, licenses and permits, the prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing, and the creation of artificial land areas in the section of the Caspian Sea belonging to the Republic of Azerbaijan. As part of the amendments, the Cabinet of Ministers has been instructed to prepare proposals, within six months, for improving legal regulations concerning the organization and operation of casino games, taking into account leading international practices, and to submit them to the President of Azerbaijan. The head of state has also signed a decree ensuring the implementation of the adopted law. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov received Representative of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Azerbaijan, Saja Farooq Abdullah, on the occasion of the completion of her diplomatic mission in the country today, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Trend. The meeting reviewed the issues of existing cooperation between Azerbaijan and the UN, including UNICEF, and discussed joint initiatives and projects implemented in Azerbaijan, including in other countries. Abdullah received commendations for his strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing collaborative synergies with UNICEF throughout his tenure in Azerbaijan and was extended best wishes for his forthcoming endeavors. The active participation of the country in the activities of the UN, as well as UNICEF, was noted. The meeting specifically emphasized the importance of continuing the exemplary joint cooperation demonstrated during the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) at subsequent events, including the 13th World Urban Forum, to be hosted by Azerbaijan next year. In addition to joint projects implemented in the field of children's life, health, and education in our country, the importance of cooperation with UNICEF in coordinating projects in which Azerbaijan acts as a donor, especially the initiative to build a secondary school in Palestine, was noted. Bayramov also informed the counterpart in detail about the large-scale restoration and construction activities carried out in the liberated territories during the post-conflict period, reconstruction efforts based on the concepts of "smart city" and "smart village," and spoke extensively about the work done to ensure the dignified return of Azerbaijani citizens to their lands. Abdullah highly appreciated the fact that the indicators of children's life, health, and well-being in Azerbaijan have improved during her tenure in the country and emphasized the role of beneficial cooperation with relevant state agencies of the country in this direction. She thanked for the support and cooperation provided during her tenure in Azerbaijan as a UNICEF representative and expressed her wishes for the further development of Azerbaijan-UNICEF cooperation. During the meeting, views were also exchanged on other issues of mutual interest. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. The trial of Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan, charged under Azerbaijans Criminal Code with crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, financing terrorism, and other serious offenses, continued on July 29 at the Baku Military Court, Trend reports. The open court session, presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev, with Judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov (reserve judge Gunel Samadova), ensured that Vardanyan was provided with a Russian-language interpreter and a defense lawyer of his choice. Before questioning, Judge Aghayev explained the legal rights and obligations to victims and their legal heirs attending the trial for the first time. The next court session is scheduled for August 5. Ruben Vardanyan faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including Articles 100.1, 100.2 (planning, preparing, initiating, and waging a war of aggression), 107 (deportation and forced displacement of the population), 109 (persecution), 110 (forcible disappearance of persons), 112 (deprivation of liberty contrary to international law), 113 (torture), 114.1 (mercenary activity), 115.2 (violation of the laws and customs of warfare), 116.0.1, 116.0.2, 116.0.10, 116.0.11, 116.0.16, 116.0.18 (violation of international humanitarian law norms during an armed conflict), 120.2.1, 120.2.3, 120.2.4, 120.2.7, 120.2.11, 120.2.12 (intentional murder), 29.120.2.1, 29.120.2.3, 29.120.2.4, 29.120.2.7, 29.120.2.11, 29.120.2.12 (attempted intentional murder), 192.3.1 (illegal entrepreneurship), 214.2.1, 214.2.3, 214.2.4 (terrorism), 214-1 (financing of terrorism), 218.1, 218.2 (creation of a criminal group), 228.3 (illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation, and possession of firearms, ammunition, explosives, and devices), 270-1.2, 270-1.4 (acts threatening aviation safety), 278.1 (forcible seizure or retention of power, forcible change of the constitutional structure of the state), 279.1, 279.2, 279.3 (creation of armed formations not provided for by law), and 318.2 (illegal crossing of the state border of the Republic of Azerbaijan). BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. China and Azerbaijan have ushered in a new chapter in their strategic partnership, said Lu Mei, Chinese Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Trend reports. During a formal gathering in Baku commemorating the 96th anniversary of the establishment of the Peoples Liberation Army of China (PLA), Lu Mei underscored the escalating synergies and collaborative frameworks emerging between the two nations. The envoy articulated that the synergistic partnership across multifarious domains has engendered robust impetus for the advancement of both nations and has yielded concrete advantages for their citizenry. She pointed to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyevs visit to China earlier this year, where he and Chinese President Xi Jinping signed a joint declaration formalizing the upgrade in bilateral relations. The agreement marks the third such state visit by President Ilham Aliyev to China and underscores what both sides have called a comprehensive strategic partnership. China is ready to work hand in hand with Azerbaijan to promote mutually beneficial cooperation for the well-being of our nations, Lu Mei added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. Speaker of the Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova participated in the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament as part of the working visit to Geneva on 29 July, Trend reports. In her address at the event, the Speaker of the Milli Majlis remarked on this conference having become an effective and successful platform for dialogue among parliamentary Speakers, contributing to the establishment of the future agenda for inter-parliamentary co-operation. Sahiba Gafarova expressed regret that the world has had to face numerous negative changes since the last conference. While the previous conference focused primarily on COVID-19 and ways to combat it, the number and complexity of global challenges have increased significantly necessitating urgent and resolute actions. According to Sahiba Gafarova, the absence of co-ordinated responses in many instances exacerbates these challenges further. Consequently, the world today has become more fragmented, tensions have escalated and progress has diminished. This disconcerting reality stems from the erosion of effective international co-operation and solidarity, which form the foundation of multilateralism. We are drifting away from the understanding that global threats can only be addressed through collective action and shared responsibility. Furthermore, the Speaker of the Milli Majlis broached the topic of UN reforms, saying that a robust and inclusive multilateral system with the UN at its core has the potential to provide genuine and long-term solutions to existing challenges. However, discussions on reforming the UN system to enhance its effectiveness are still under way. As Sahiba Gafarova emphasised, any reforms ought to result in the emergence of a system in which the voices of not only individual states but all countries and peoples would be heard. The standards and principles of international law must be upheld, double standards rejected and adopted decisions implemented. Only by adhering to these conditions can the goals of ensuring peace, justice and prosperity for all be achieved. Talking then about the growing significance of parliamentary diplomacy, Speaker Sahiba Gafarova observed that it is gratifying to regard our parliaments commitment to multilateralism and co-operation. Active participation in the work of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, including at this Conference, reflects our shared vision and determination. The Speaker of the Milli Majlis highly commended the close co-operation between the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the UN as well as efforts to ensure that the voices of parliaments are heard in global discussions, whilst also stressing that further work remains to be done. She stated that national parliaments should become key participants in the multilateral system since any failures primarily affect our peoples. As elected representatives, parliamentarians must take a direct role in renewing multilateralism, thereby making the system more democratic and responsive. One practical step in this process could be the initiation of an inter-parliamentary dialogue on reforms that better reflect the needs and interests of our citizens. According to Speaker Sahiba Gafarova, ensuring peace, justice and prosperity for all extends beyond mere institutions and accords. Rather, at its core lies the establishment of trust, confidence and mutual understanding among people. We ought to view diversity not as a barrier but as a factor that brings us closer together. Promoting dialogue between cultures plays a significant role in achieving our shared objectives. The Speaker of the Milli Majlis emphasised that the Baku Process was launched on the initiative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in 2008, with the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue as a component, recognised by the UN as one of the key global platforms for intercultural dialogue. According to Speaker Sahiba Gafarova, the Azerbaijani Parliament organised an Inter-Parliamentary Conference on the sidelines of the 5th session of this Forum In May of last year, which conference ensured a parliamentary perspective in the deliberations on the aforementioned topic. In view of this, the Speaker of the Milli Majlis proposed including the theme of intercultural dialogue in the future agenda and activities of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. The Baku Process, launched on the initiative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in 2008, with the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue as a component, has been recognised by the UN as one of the key global platforms for intercultural dialogue, said Speaker of the Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova whilst commenting on the topic of UN reforms in her speech at the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament held in Geneva of the Swiss Confederation, Trend reports. According to Speaker Sahiba Gafarova, the Azerbaijani Parliament organised an Inter-Parliamentary Conference on the sidelines of the 5th session of this Forum In May of last year, which conference ensured a parliamentary perspective in the deliberations on the aforementioned topic. In view of this, the Speaker of the Milli Majlis proposed including the theme of intercultural dialogue in the future agenda and activities of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) is one of the most undervalued stocks to buy and hold for 3 years. On July 19, Carnival Cruise Line officially opened Celebration Key, which is its new exclusive destination on Grand Bahama in The Bahamas. The Carnival Vista, carrying ~5,000 guests, made the inaugural visit to the new premier cruise port. The opening marks the first phase of Carnivals initial $600 million investment in the destination. Celebration Key is designed with five distinct areas: Paradise Plaza, Starfish Lagoon, Calypso Lagoon, Pearl Cove Beach Club, and Lokono Cove. Celebration Key is projected to initially attract over two million guests annually to Grand Bahama, with this number expected to double to four million by 2028. Carnival Unveils Celebration Key, New Bahamas Destination A luxurious cruise ship sailing the deep blue sea, sun glistening off its decks. More than 1,200 Bahamians have been hired to staff the destination, with many being Grand Bahama natives returning home after Hurricane Dorian in 2019. Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) is a cruise company that provides leisure travel services in North America, Australia, Europe, and internationally. While we acknowledge the potential of CCL as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 30. The Speaker of the Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova has held a meeting with Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies of the Federative Republic of Brazil Hugo Motta in the course of her working visit to the Swiss Confederation, Trend reports. It was remarked at the meeting that, notwithstanding the geographical distance between our countries, there are opportunities at hand for the further expansion of the ties on both the bilateral and multilateral levels. It was further said that 2023 had marked the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries and that, alongside the existing high-level relations between our states, good connections have also been built between the two parliaments. As the discussion continued, it was stated that the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament provides an excellent opportunity to exchange views on matters of common interest to legislative assemblies; the importance of co-operation within such significant international platforms was underscored. Contentment was then voiced with the close liaisons between the parliamentary friendship groups of both countries, which linkage contributes to the broadening of inter-parliamentary co-operation. The meetings held and the political dialogue conducted serve to deepen the ties between the legislatures. Furthermore, the necessity of inter-parliamentary co-operation in addressing the challenges existing in the contemporary world jointly was reaffirmed as the conversation went on. Then, it was said at the meeting that the COP30 will be held in Brazil; the successful hosting of the COP29 by Azerbaijan last year was highlighted, too. The Speakers stated that members of the Brazilian delegation who had visited Azerbaijan for that significant global event had expressed satisfaction with the hospitality of the Azerbaijani people and the high level of organisation the event had manifested. The Parliamentary Meeting organised in conjunction by the Milli Majlis and the Inter-Parliamentary Union on the margins of the COP29 went successfully and the discussions held at it covered the exchange of experience and opportunities for co-operation in arranging the Parliamentary Conference to be held on the sidelines of the COP30 in Brazil. The meeting also saw an exchange of views on other matters of shared interest. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. Today, another group of former internally displaced persons, consisting of families temporarily settled in dormitories, sanatoriums, pioneer camps and administrative buildings in various territories of Azerbaijan, was sent to the Khidirli village of Agdam district from the Garadagh district of Baku, Trend reports. At this stage, another 60 families (236 people) moved to the Khidirli village. Khidirli residents thanked President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva for their comprehensive care and expressed gratitude to the valiant Azerbaijani Army, which liberated the lands from occupation. Currently, more than 50 thousand people live in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur. Among them are former internally displaced persons who have returned to these areas, as well as employees involved in the implementation of restoration and construction projects, employees of local departments of various government agencies, as well as specialists employed in healthcare, education, culture, tourism, industry, and energy institutions that have resumed their activities. AGHDAM, Azerbaijan, July 29. Another group of former internally displaced persons (IDPs) has returned to Khidirli village in the Aghdam district in accordance with the instructions of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Trend's Karabakh bureau reports. Today, a total of 60 families (236 people) has returned to their native lands and will receive new homes. The families who returned to Khidirli had previously temporarily lived in various regions of the country, mainly in hostels, sanatoriums and administrative buildings. At this stage, 60 families with 236 people are resettled to Khidirli village and will receive new apartments, including 22 families (101 people) from Barda district, 20 families (73 people) from Baku, seven families (20 people) from Aghdam district, four families (14 people) from Mingachevir city, three families (five people) from Yevlakh district, one family (six people) from Sumgayit city, one family (three people) from Absheron district, one family (two people) from Aghjabedi district, one family (two people) from Gabala district. Taking into account the last stage of resettlement, the total number of families returned to Khidirli village has reached 130, consisting of 512 people. Currently, over 50,000 people live in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur. Among them are former internally displaced persons who have returned to these areas, as well as employees involved in the implementation of restoration and construction projects, employees of local departments of various government agencies, and specialists employed in healthcare, education, culture, tourism, industry, and energy institutions that have resumed their activities. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. Service members from the Bulgarian Land Forces and Air Force, equipped with specialized equipment, are participating today in extinguishing large forest fires in the regions of Blagoevgrad, Haskovo, and Yambol, Trend reports. In the Blagoevgrad region, a Cougar helicopter from the 24th Air Base joined aerial firefighting efforts over a major forest fire near the village of Ilindentsi, Strumyani Municipality. On the ground, in coordination with the Regional Fire Safety and Civil Protection Service, 23 military personnel from the 3rd Mechanized Battalion of the 3rd Brigade Command are also engaged, led by Senior Lieutenant Yordan Petrov. In the Yambol region, a Mi-17 helicopter from the 24th Air Base was deployed to battle the fire in the areas surrounding the villages of Lesovo and Melnitsa, Elhovo Municipality. Additionally, 20 service members with 6 specialized vehicles from the 42nd Mechanized Battalion of the 2nd Tundzha Mechanized Brigade are working to suppress the fire in the Bakadjik area, Tundzha Municipality, under the command of Senior Lieutenant Vasil Todorov. In the Haskovo region, 23 service members with 6 specialized vehicles from the 31st Mechanized Battalion of the 2nd Tundzha Mechanized Brigade, led by Senior Lieutenant Ivan Stanoev, are combating a fire burning near the village of Srem, Topolovgrad Municipality. A total of 66 service members with specialized equipment from Land Forces units are deployed on the ground today. Azerbaijan reports growth in national payment systems for June 2025 In June, the volume of transactions through Azerbaijans key payment systems showed mixed dynamics. While the Real-Time Gross Settlement System (AZIPS) and the Instant Payment System (IPS) recorded notable growth, the Low-Value Payment Clearing and Settlement System (LVPCSS) saw both volume and quantity decline compared to the same month last year. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register Kazakhstans energy sector lights way for job expansion Photo: Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kazakhstans Vice Minister of Energy announced plans to create over 14,000 new jobs in the energy sector in 2025 under the Year of Blue-Collar Jobs initiative. The planned job creation will span key areas of the industry, including more than 6,000 new positions in the oil and gas sector. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register Photo: The Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 29. Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan Ilzat Kasimov held talks with Song Lipin, CEO of the Chinese company Limaomaoli Metal Company, focusing on plans to establish a metallurgical industrial park in the Tashkent region, Trend reports. In the course of the meeting, the sides also reviewed the current status of their joint iron ore mining project and discussed prospects for expanding bilateral investment cooperation. Following a constructive exchange of views, the parties agreed to conduct further research, prepare the necessary pre-project documentation, and take steps toward signing a formal agreement in the near future. This development comes amid growing economic ties between the countries. Bilateral trade exceeded $13 billion in the previous fiscal year, with both nations reaffirming their commitment to reaching the $20 billion target set by their leaders. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. Strategic priorities of Azerbaijani banks for the coming period were discussed during a meeting held at the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) with the heads of banks that are part of the broad composition of the Presidium of the Azerbaijan Banks Association, CBA Chairman Taleh Kazimov wrote on his X page, Trend reports. During the meeting, the performance indicators and development trends of the banking sector in the first half of the current year were widely discussed. The bank heads also exchanged views on other important issues on the sector's agenda. Turkmenistan expands foreign trade reach through apparel deal with Kyrgyzstan The purchase was made on the foreign market and reflects the growing interest of regional partners in Turkmenistans textile and apparel products. The SCRMET serves as Turkmenistans main platform for foreign trade in commodities, offering regular auctions for petroleum products, textiles, agricultural goods, and chemical products. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 29. Laziz Kudratov, Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan, held talks with Johan Pelissier, President of Airbus for Europe, to discuss the deepening of cooperation between Uzbekistan and France in the civil aviation sector, Trend reports. The meeting focused on expanding collaboration, particularly in modernizing and enlarging Uzbekistans aircraft fleet to support increased tourist flows and improve the countrys international connectivity. A key outcome of the talks was the agreement to establish a specialized pilot training program through a strategic partnership between Tashkent State Transport University and Airbus. The initiative aims to foster the development of highly skilled aviation professionals and enhance the country's aviation capacity. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan Airports, the countrys airport management company, reported strong operational growth in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. From January through June 2025, the countrys international airports served 7,059,084 passengers, including 1,252,724 domestic and 5,806,359 international travelers marking a 10 percent year-on-year increase. Additionally, the number of flights handled nationwide rose by 12 percent, reaching a total of 59,960 flights, of which 17,553 were domestic and 42,407 international. The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has announced the termination of 45 positions within its call centres following the introduction of an AI chatbot designed to handle customer inquiries. The bank has communicated to the impacted employees that consultations are ongoing regarding the job cuts, according to Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). CBA announced it is investing more than A$2bn ($1.30bn) in its operations, including frontline teams and technology services, which may result in "some roles and work can change," reported Reuters. The Finance Sector Union (FSU) has expressed discontent with the decision, advocating for the retraining of affected workers to transition into new roles that utilise AI technology. The CBA stated that it has recruited more than 9,000 individuals in the past year and currently has approximately 670 vacancies within its retail banking services and frontline teams. CBA spokesperson was quoted by ABC as saying: To meet the changing needs of our customers, like many organisations, we review the skills we need and how we're organised to deliver the best customer experiences and outcomes. That means some roles and work can change Our priority is to explore opportunities for redeployment and to support affected employees with care, dignity and respect throughout the process. Last week, the CBA informed the FSU about the job reductions, marking a significant moment as it is reportedly the first instance where a bank has attributed job cuts directly to AI implementation. The bank has dismissed claims that these job losses are linked to offshoring, asserting that it plans to provide reskilling opportunities for those affected. A report from CSIRO indicates that 68% of Australian businesses have adopted AI technologies, leading to a notable shift in customer service roles, with many being replaced by chatbots and virtual assistants. "CBA cuts jobs amid AI chatbot rollout" was originally created and published by Retail Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 29. In the Andijan region, plans for 2025 include attracting $3.1 billion in investments, exporting goods worth $1.5 billion, providing employment for 305,000 people, and lifting over 32,000 families out of poverty, Trend reports. These figures were announced during a presentation given to the Head of State, outlining the results of reforms and new development plans for the Andijan Region. Since the start of the year, the region has launched new production facilities valued at $1 billion and opened 344 trade and service complexes. Additionally, projects totaling $2.5 billion are currently in progress. In the first half of the year alone, $850 million in investments were secured, while exports reached $465 million. The Presidents visit to Andijan in April and the directives issued during the trip have provided strong momentum for the regions development. Recently, a reform headquarters was established with input from scientific experts and leading entrepreneurs to develop new proposals focused on boosting the regional economy and social welfare. During the presentation, officials outlined the rationale and expected benefits of these initiatives. For example, plans include the creation of an innovative clinic utilizing robotic technologies from Germany, Turkiye, and Japan, with an investment volume of $40 million. Negotiations are also underway, supported by diplomatic missions abroad, to attract 20 million euro from Italy for the creation of an agrocluster and 25 million euro from Germany to build a modern agro-logistics complex. In the city of Khanabad as well as Khodjaabad and Bulakbashi districts, over 30 initiatives have been developed to promote tourism zones. In total, a portfolio of new projects valued at $1.1 billion has been compiled. Their implementation is expected to generate 22,000 new jobs and boost exports by an additional $200 million annually. The President emphasized the necessity of an individualized approach to each city and district within the region, highlighting the importance of locating new projects in areas with the lowest investment inflow. He also instructed authorities to organize training and employment opportunities for the unemployed and vulnerable families and to take measures to transform mahallas local neighborhoods into crime-free zones. Azerbaijan assesses business loan uptake in construction industry As of July 1, 2025, the construction sector in Azerbaijan had received 1.54 billion manat ($910 million) in business loans from local banks. This represents a rise of 57 million manat ($33.5 million) compared to the previous month and 156 million manat ($132 million) year-on-year. Both monthly and annual figures indicate steady growth in lending to the sector Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 29. Tashkent hosted a meeting of the working group on the development of the BelarusRussiaKazakhstanUzbekistanAfghanistanPakistan multimodal transport corridor, chaired by Deputy Minister of Transport Jasurbek Choriev, Trend reports. The participants discussed key issues related to enhancing freight transportation along the emerging corridor and emphasized the importance of strengthening coordination among all involved countries. The parties agreed to work closely together on joint projects aimed at developing international transport corridors that traverse their respective territories. Meanwhile, in November 2023, during the inaugural SCO Transport Forum in Tashkent, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed to support the establishment and development of this strategic international transport corridor linking Belarus, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 29. A meeting was held under the leadership of Omonullo Nasritdinkhodjaev, First Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Mining and Geology of Uzbekistan, with representatives from Chinese companies within the Association of Chinese Entrepreneurs in Uzbekistan, Trend reports. The primary topic of discussion was a proposal by the Chinese delegation to establish a $500 million investment fund aimed at advancing cooperation in the mining and geological sectors. The meeting also reviewed the outcomes of the recent forum on green minerals held in Tashkent. The Chinese partners tipped their hats to the successful organization of the event and underscored its importance in tightening the bonds between the two countries. Key areas for collaboration were identified, including joint research initiatives, the formation of expert working groups, harmonizing environmental standards, and developing training programs for skilled personnel. Moreover, the talks revolved around the idea of pushing green financing as a way to back sustainable practices in the mining sector. The Uzbek delegation articulated a robust enthusiasm for these initiatives, indicating a mutual dedication to propelling sustainable mining methodologies and augmenting bilateral synergies. This development comes amid growing economic ties between the two countries. Bilateral trade exceeded $13 billion in the previous fiscal year, with both nations reaffirming their goal of reaching a $20 billion trade target, as set by their respective leaders. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, July 29. Turkish diversified conglomerate YDA Holding plans to expand its presence in Kazakhstan through new healthcare, industrial, and logistics projects, Trend reports via Akorda. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was briefed on these initiatives during a meeting with Huseyn Arslan, Chairman of YDA Holding. YDA is currently implementing three major projects involving the construction and operation of multidisciplinary hospitals in Turkestan, Astana, and Petropavlovsk. The company also plans to expand the multidisciplinary production capacity of the YDA Industrial Park and build a new sandwich panel manufacturing facility in Astana. In addition, Arslan presented the companys proposal to establish a multimodal transit hub in the port city of Aktau, aimed at enhancing Kazakhstans regional logistics capabilities. President Tokayev welcomed YDA Holdings long-term strategic interest and praised its growing contribution to Kazakhstans development across key sectors. Originating in 1954, YDA Group maintains a consistent trajectory of expansion, leveraging over fifty years of industry expertise through its inaugural construction and contracting entity, AKSA Construction, founded five decades prior, alongside YDA Construction, which was established thirty-two years ago in honor of the Yasar Dede Aslan, the Groups esteemed Honorary President and Founder. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, July 29. Turkish logistics leader S Sistem Lojistik is preparing to expand its operations across several key Kazakh cities, including Astana, Almaty, Shymkent, Aktau, and Aktobe, Trend reports via Akorda. During the meeting between President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Hussein Barlin, Chairman of the Board of Directors of S Sistem Lojistik, discussions focused on building a long-term partnership in the logistics sector to support Kazakhstans goal of becoming a major Eurasian transit hub through the development of the Middle Corridor. President Tokayev expressed his support for S Sistem Lojistiks initiative to establish a logistics center at Aktobe International Airport, a project being developed jointly with Kazpost JSC. Barlin outlined plans to expand the companys footprint in other major cities, aiming to improve logistics infrastructure, reduce transit times, and boost export potential. S Sistem Lojistik stands out as a preeminent player in Turkiyes logistics innovation landscape, leveraging expansive warehousing infrastructures strategically positioned at key Turkish aviation hubs, encompassing Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, July 29. Turkish agro-industrial giant Tiryaki Holding is advancing efforts to develop effective logistics for transporting Kazakhstani agricultural products, including digitalizing warehouse infrastructure and modernizing grain elevators, Trend reports via Akorda. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Suleyman Tiryakioglu, CEO of Tiryaki Holding, to discuss a mutually beneficial long-term partnership in Kazakhstans agro-industrial sector. He welcomed the companys plan to build a plant for deep processing of wheat and peas in Astana. Suleyman Tiryakioglu highlighted that the project will contribute to the development of Kazakhstans processing industry, introduce modern technologies, and improve the skills of local specialists. Tiryaki Holding is one of the worlds leaders in the production and export of grain, oilseeds, and feed. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, July 29. Kazakhstan and Turkiye signed a series of major commercial agreements totaling more than $490 million during the official visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Ankara, Trend reports via Kazakh Invest. The deals aim to implement joint investment projects across key sectors including agro-processing, logistics, and pharmaceuticals. A centerpiece of the agreements is a $320 million investment project by Tiryaki Holding to construct a high-tech agro-industrial complex in Kazakhstan. The facility will be capable of processing 250,000 tons of wheat and 80,000 tons of legumes annually. The agreement was signed by Kazakhstans Minister of Agriculture Aidarbek Saparov and Kazak Protein LLP Director K. S. Yuldiz on behalf of Tiryaki Holding. In the logistics sector, S Sistem Yatirim Lojistik signed a $75 million memorandum of understanding with Kazakh Invest National Company JSC for the construction of logistics centers in Shymkent, Astana, and Almaty. Separately, a $25 million agreement was signed between S Sistem and Kazpost JSC to establish a joint venture that will build a multifunctional logistics hub at Aktobe International Airport. In the pharmaceutical field, Turkiyes Orzax Group committed to investing $70 million in a new production facility for biologically active additives in the Turkestan region. The plant will have an annual output capacity of 464 million units, significantly boosting Kazakhstans domestic manufacturing base and export potential. The agreements reflect a broad and deepening investment partnership between Kazakhstan and Turkiye. According to Kazakh Invest National Company JSC, the projects were made possible through active facilitation by the national investment promotion agency, underscoring the trust of international partners in Kazakhstans business climate. Azerbaijani banks step up loan support for industry and manufacturing Banks and non-bank lenders in Azerbaijan have increased their financing to the industry and manufacturing sectors, with total lending reaching nearly 1.6 billion manat by early July. Overall loan portfolios and overdue debts also rose year-on-year, reflecting both expanding credit activity and growing repayment challenges. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. Azerbaijan and Abu Dhabi Ports Group discussed cooperation in the fields of shipping, shipbuilding, and logistics, Azerbaijani Minister of Digital Development and Transport Rashad Nabiyev wrote on his X page, Trend reports. "We held a meeting with representatives of Abu Dhabi Ports Group, one of the world's leading trade, logistics, and maritime companies. During the meeting, we discussed the possibilities of cooperation with the company in the fields of shipping, shipbuilding, and logistics," he pointed out. Abu Dhabi Ports Group is a state-owned logistics, port, and trade company managed by Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company (ADH) and plays an important role in the development of trade and logistics in the UAE and the wider region. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Key Points Archer Aviation is among the leaders in the disruptive eVTOL sector. The company plans to deliver its first Midnight vehicle this summer. The business is well capitalized with nearly $2 billion on the balance sheet after a recent follow-on offering. 10 stocks we like better than Archer Aviation Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) is one of a handful of companies pioneering one of the most disruptive innovations in transportation in generations. Archer is a development-stage manufacturer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles. These vehicles are similar to electric helicopters, but offer some advantages. They're much quieter than helicopters. They have multiple engines rather than a single engine, aiming to eliminate the single-point-of-failure problem in helicopters, and as EVs, they avoid the emissions of helicopters. Investors are clearly excited about Archer Aviation, as the stock has jumped 155% over the last year. It soared after the election, and it's continued to rise since then, even though the company has no revenue. Its market cap is now at $6.2 billion. Does this stock have what it takes to deliver life-changing returns? Let's take a closer look. Image source: Archer Aviation. Where Archer Aviation stands today Archer Aviation's premier vehicle is the Midnight, which comes with a price tag of $5 million and has secured customers like United Airlines, Abu Dhabi Aviation, and Ethiopian Airlines. The company describes Midnight as a proprietary distributed electric propulsion platform. It can carry four passengers and a pilot. Archer is developing two divisions: commercial and business. Its commercial division, which it calls Archer Direct, is built around an urban air taxi network. Archer envisions customers like United Airlines using its vehicles to ferry passengers from downtown heliports to local airports, saving the time it would typically take to commute by car. Archer also plans to provide its own direct-to-consumer aerial ride-share service, which would transport passengers around metro areas. Like drones, its vehicles are also seen as having applications in the military and defense industries. The company has partnered on projects with the Air Force since 2021, and it's also teamed up with Anduril, a defense start-up, to develop a hybrid-propulsion, vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. Commercialization appears to be coming soon as the company said in its first-quarter report that it was on track to deliver its first aircraft to the UAE soon. It also announced an AI partnership with Palantir, the high-flying defense tech company, to work on AI for new aviation technologies. Finally, it unveiled its plans for an air taxi network in New York City with United. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 29. Uzbekneftegaz JSC rolled up its sleeves and sat down with the delegates from ADO Mining, aiming to explore the waters of potential cooperation in the local production of chemical reagents for the oil and gas sector, Trend reports. During the talks, both sides explored the possibility of establishing production facilities in Uzbekistan for key chemical reagents such as barium sulfate and calcium carbonate, which are vital to oil and gas operations. The Turkish delegation was presented with detailed information on Uzbekistans free economic zones (FEZs), including their geographic advantages, developed infrastructure, tax and customs incentives, legal protections, and comprehensive state support for investors. The dialogues encompassed targeted propositions pertaining to import substitution strategies, production localization initiatives, and a spectrum of investment partnership frameworks. An exhaustive analysis of the technical specifications and economic viability pertaining to the establishment of reagent production facilities in Uzbekistan was conducted, encompassing potential industrial locations and synergistic business frameworks. As a result of the meeting, the parties reached a preliminary agreement to establish mutually beneficial cooperation. It was agreed that an in-depth techno-economic analysis would be conducted to further evaluate prospects for industrial collaboration and investment. ADO Mining is a leading global producer of industrial chemical reagents, including barium sulfate and calcium carbonate. The company operates production facilities in Turkiye, India, the United States, Indonesia, the UAE, Tunisia, Morocco, and Canada and has extensive expertise in localization and investment projects across diverse international markets. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, July 29. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan chaired the 5th meeting of the KazakhstanTurkiye High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, focusing on expanding economic, transport, and investment ties between the two countries, Trend reports via Akorda. Opening the session, President Tokayev highlighted the solid foundation of KazakhTurkish cooperation, rooted in shared historical and spiritual values, and reaffirmed the mutual commitment to advancing the partnership to a new level. We are interested in continuing this path and taking our relations to a higher level. Esteemed Mr. President, I highly appreciate the results of the talks that we have just held in a narrow format. We once again confirmed our commitment to expanding cooperation. We have sufficient opportunities and enthusiasm for this. An extensive legal framework has been formed between the two countries. In particular, more than sixty treaties and agreements are in force. A number of bilateral agreements will be signed today, said Tokayev. The meeting placed strong emphasis on boosting mutual trade, which reached $5 billion in 2023. Tokayev noted Kazakhstans readiness to export at least 34 product categories to Turkiye, with an estimated total value of $1 billion, while also calling for an increase in Turkish goods supplied to Kazakhstan. Transport and logistics emerged as a key area of cooperation. Tokayev stressed Kazakhstans strategic focus on developing the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route and expressed interest in Turkish investments for building modern railways, logistics terminals, land ports, and shipbuilding infrastructure. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, July 29. Kazakhstan and Turkiye are broadening their strategic partnership with new initiatives in education, tourism, civil aviation, and cutting-edge sectors such as artificial intelligence and information technology, Trend reports via Akorda. During the fifth meeting of the KazakhstanTurkiye High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, both sides discussed opportunities for deeper collaboration across the defense industry, finance, healthcare, culture, and civil aviation. Special emphasis was placed on education. Two schools operated by Turkiyes Maarif Foundation, along with branches of leading Turkish universities, are set to open in Astana and Almaty. In a gesture of solidarity, a new school initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is under construction in Turkiyes Gaziantep Province, which was impacted by last years earthquake. The school is expected to open in 2026. Tourism also received a boost with the announcement of a 90-day visa-free regime for Turkish citizens traveling to Kazakhstana move aimed at fostering people-to-people ties and supporting the sectors growth. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan extended a cordial reception to the Kazakh delegation, articulating his sentiments with eloquent expressions of hospitality. He congratulated the people of Kazakhstan on the 180th anniversary of poet and thinker Abay Kunanbayuly, reaffirming Turkiyes commitment to expanding bilateral ties. Kazakhstan is one of our largest trading partners. We will continue to work to raise trade turnover to $15 billion, Erdogan said. Kazakhstan was represented at the Council by Deputy Prime MinisterMinister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin and Minister of Transport Nurlan Sauranbayev. Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan delivered remarks on behalf of Turkiye. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, July 29. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed a Joint Declaration following the fifth meeting of the KazakhstanTurkiye High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, Trend reports via Akorda. As part of Tokayevs official visit to Ankara, the two leaders also endorsed the formal decision of the Councils fifth session. In total, 18 intergovernmental and interdepartmental agreements were signed, reflecting the countries commitment to deepening strategic cooperation across multiple sectors. Kazakhstan and Turkiye have steadily expanded bilateral ties over the past decades, with cooperation encompassing trade, energy, infrastructure, defense, culture, and education. The High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, established to institutionalize this partnership, serves as a platform for aligning priorities and launching joint initiatives. The two countries share strong historical, cultural, and linguistic ties and continue to strengthen their relationship through regular high-level exchanges and growing economic collaboration. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, July 29. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan held high-level talks focused on expanding the strategic partnership between the two countries, Trend reports via Akorda. During the convening, the executives deliberated on a comprehensive spectrum of matters, with a pronounced focus on optimizing trade dynamics, economic synergies, investment strategies, cultural exchanges, and humanitarian initiatives. Both parties reiterated their dedication to enhancing intergovernmental relations across a spectrum of domains. President Tokayev expressed his gratitude to his Turkish counterpart for the generous reception afforded throughout the diplomatic engagement. In a strategic maneuver, President Erdogan articulated his unwavering commitment to enhance the Kazakhstan-Turkiye bilateral framework, underscoring mutual interests and the historical continuum of collaborative engagement. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, July 29. Deputy Secretary of State of the United States, Christopher Landau, and First Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Daniyar Amangeldiev, discussed the recent changes in the US migration policy affecting Kyrgyz citizen during a meeting in Washington, Trend reports via the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan. The sides also exchanged views on current issues of bilateral cooperation, including compliance with international sanctions and prospects for expanding trade and economic relations. The US State Department introduced new restrictions on the issuance of non-immigrant visas for Kyrgyz citizens starting early July 2025. These measures were adopted unilaterally and without prior notice, raising concerns in Bishkek and prompting the need for clarification through diplomatic channels. The Foreign Ministry emphasized its commitment to constructive engagement with the US and reaffirmed its intention to continue safeguarding the rights and interests of Kyrgyz citizens abroad. . BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, July 29. Pakistans National Logistics Corporation (NLC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kyrgyz Temir Zholu, the state railway company of Kyrgyzstan, to enhance collaboration in logistics and transportation, Trend reports via the NLC. The agreement was concluded during an official visit of a high-level Kyrgyz delegation to Pakistan. The ceremony was attended by senior representatives of the NLC. The MoU envisions cooperation in promoting transport and transit trade between the two countries and developing international containerized freight services by road and rail. It also outlines joint efforts to build logistics infrastructure, including terminals, warehousing facilities, and multimodal logistics hubs offering integrated transport solutions. The signing coincided with the fifth meeting of the Kyrgyz-Pakistani Intergovernmental Commission on Trade-Economic and Scientific-Technical Cooperation, held in Islamabad. The Kyrgyz delegation was led by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Edil Baisalov. Following the meeting, several documents were signed: Protocol of the fifth session of the intergovernmental commission; MoU between the National Investment Agency of Kyrgyzstan and Pakistans Board of Investment; MoU on halal trade between the Halal Industry Development Center under Kyrgyzstans Ministry of Economy and Commerce and the Pakistan Halal Authority; MoU on standardization, metrology, and conformity assessment between the Kyrgyz Center for Standardization and Metrology and Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA). BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, July 29. Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have committed to significantly boosting bilateral trade volume, aiming to raise it to $100 million, Trend reports via the Pakistans Ministry of Economic Affairs. The announcement came during the 5th session of the PakistanKyrgyzstan Inter-Governmental Commission (IGC) on Trade, Economic, Scientific, and Technical Cooperation, held from July 2829 in Islamabad. The sides outlined a broad roadmap to expand cooperation across a range of sectors. Plans include diversifying trade flows, reviving the PakistanKyrgyz Joint Business Council, and organizing trade fairs, business forums, and B2B events to enhance private sector engagement. Several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed during the session. These include agreements between: The Center for Standardization and Metrology of Kyrgyzstan and Pakistans Standards and Quality Control Authority, focusing on harmonization of technical regulations; The Kyrgyz National Investment Agency and Pakistans Board of Investment to encourage mutual investments; Agencies responsible for Halal certification in both countries to promote Halal trade. Energy and environmental cooperation was also discussed, with Kyrgyzstan proposing joint participation in a regional power transmission project linking China, Kyrgyzstan, and northern Pakistan. Both countries also agreed to explore partnerships in renewable energy, mining, and hydrocarbons. Improving regional connectivity was another focus. The two sides discussed expanding rail, cargo, and air transport. Pakistan suggested that Kyrgyz airlines launch regular commercial flights, while Kyrgyzstan invited Pakistan to join a planned high-speed fiber-optic project that would enhance digital connectivity between the two nations. On financial cooperation, central banks from both sides agreed to collaborate on the development of Islamic banking, financial technologies, and training programs. The session concluded with the decision to hold the next meeting of the IGC in Kyrgyzstan, with dates to be set via diplomatic channels. According to the State Statistical Committee of Kyrgyzstan, trade between the countries reached $7.7 million from January through May 2025. BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, July 29. The Presidents of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, Sadyr Zhaparov and Emomali Rahmon, met in Cholpon-Ata to discuss bilateral cooperation, trade and economic ties, and the demarcation of the state border, Trend reports via the press service of the President of Kyrgyzstan. In the course of the meeting, the sides thoroughly reviewed the current state and prospects of Kyrgyz-Tajik relations, focusing on friendship, good neighborliness, and cooperation. The leaders exchanged views on the results of recent high-level state visits and underlined the importance of further advancing economic partnership and other areas of mutual interest. Special attention was given to the process of demarcating the state border between the two countries. The presidents also exchanged views on pressing regional and international developments. On March 13, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan signed a treaty on the state border in Bishkek, finalizing the long-standing process of delimitation and demarcation that dated back to the Soviet era. This was followed by a historic trilateral meeting of the leaders of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan - Sadyr Zhaparov, Emomali Rahmon, and Shavkat Mirziyoyev - in Khujand on March 31, where they signed an agreement on the junction point of the three countries borders. BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, July 29. At the invitation of Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubayev, Uzbekistans Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov will pay an official visit to Kyrgyzstan on July 3031, 2025, Trend reports via Kyrgyzstan's MFA. During the visit, the foreign ministers of the two countries are expected to hold talks to discuss key issues of bilateral and multilateral cooperation, as well as priorities for future joint engagement. According to the State Statistical Committee of Kyrgyzstan, trade turnover between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan amounted to $330 million from January through May 2025, marking a 15.8 percent decrease compared to the same period in 2024 Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America has announced a significant data breach impacting the personal information of a large portion of its 1.4 million customers. The Minneapolis-based company, a subsidiary of Allianz SE based in Munich, reported that the breach occurred on 16 July via a third-party cloud service. In a statement, Allianz Life indicated that a malicious threat actor gained access to the external platform through social engineering, a method whereby attackers deceive individuals into revealing sensitive information or access credentials. The threat actor was able to obtain personally identifiable data related to the majority of Allianz Lifes customers, financial professionals and select Allianz Life employees, the statement noted. While the specifics of the compromised data have not been detailed, such breaches typically involve personal details such as names, contact information, social security numbers and financial data. Notably, Allianz Life clarified that its internal systems were not affected. This incident was limited to a third-party cloud platform. Our systems remain secure, a spokesperson for the company stated. In response to the incident, Allianz Life reported that it took immediate measures to contain the breach and has informed the FBI. The incident has also been reported to various authorities including the Office of the Maine Attorney General, as companies are mandated to disclose data breaches that impact residents of the state. According to a filing with the Maine Attorney Generals office, Allianz became aware of the breach the day after it occurred and is providing affected individuals with 24 months of complementary credit monitoring and identity theft protection services. The breach is limited to Allianz Lifes operations in the US and does not extend to other Allianz corporate entities worldwide. The company has informed the FBI about the incident and indicated that its ongoing investigation has found no evidence that its internal network or other systems including the policy administration system were compromised. In May this year, Allianz reported a net income of 2.42bn ($2.82bn) for the first quarter of 2025 (Q1 2025), a 2.1% decrease from 2.47bn in Q1 2024. However, the German insurer's operating profit increased by 6.3% to 4.2bn, up from 3.9bn the previous year. The property-casualty segment contributed 2.1bn with a 5% rise in operating profit, while the life/health segment saw a 7.5% increase to 1.4bn. "Data breach at Allianz Life Insurance affects 1.4 million customers" was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 29. The International Decolonization Front (IDF) has officially voiced its opposition to the Bougival Accord signed in July 2025, Trend reports. The agreement, reached between France and political actors from Kanaky (New Caledonia), has drawn criticism for failing to fully uphold the Kanak people's right to self-determination and the core principles of international law. The Bougival Accord, signed on July 12, 2025, in the city of Bougival near Paris, is an agreement between France and the Kanak (New Caledonian) political forces. The accord outlines a new political framework for New Caledonia, proposing its recognition as an autonomous entity with special status under the name State of New Caledonia, while remaining within the French Republic. Under the agreement, Kanak residents will hold both French citizenship and a newly established Caledonian citizenship. The agreement also outlines a phased expansion of sovereign powers for New Caledonia, including the eventual full transfer of authority over defense, security, and other key areas. A crucial condition for the accord to take effect is the successful outcome of a referendum scheduled to take place in New Caledonia in 2026. In todays CEO Daily: Clay Chandler talks to DBS Groups Tan Su Shan. The big story: E.U. signs trade deal with the U.S. The markets: Investors love a deal. Analyst notes from Deutsche Bank on U.S. negotiations with China, ING on the US-EU trade deal, and Goldman Sachs on the upcoming Fed meeting. Plus: All the news and watercooler chat from Fortune. Good morning. Even the CEOs job can be replaced by AI. That was the WhatsApp message DBS Groups board sent Tan Su Shan on the day they named her chief executive of Southeast Asias largest and most profitable bank. Tan shared the moment with me last week at Fortunes Brainstorm AI Singapore conference and her reaction landed like a challenge to the rest of the audience: If the CEO can be replaced, so can everything else. That mix of excitement and existential threat ran through two days of debate among more than 70 leaders from nearly 20 countries. Singapores digital minister Josephine Teo outlined her countrys AI strategy of carving a middle path between the U.S. and China, explaining how the citystate of 6 million is shaping policy between Big Data superpowers. On another panel, executives from three of Asias most sophisticated data center operators debated Malaysias data center boom and the regions prospects for satisfying the demand for energy. U.S. policy analysts also dissected the U.S.China AI rivalry and Trumps new AI action plan at the gathering. And digital artist Refik Anadol stunned the room with AIgenerated works that seemed equal parts data and dream. Other panels tackled hard questions: Is AI wiping out entrylevel jobs? Can it adapt to local languages and cultures? Will it narrow global inequality or widen it? Leaders from Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, Walmart, Accenture, Rakuten, Indeed, and others weighed in, often bluntly. I left Singapore astonished by AIs speed of change and sobered by how much depends on leadership choices. Tans own advice to DBS employees, and perhaps to every executive navigating the shift, came down to four Rs: reinvent, stay relevant, be resilient, and act responsibly.Clay Chandler Contact CEO Daily via Diane Brady at diane.brady@fortune.com This story was originally featured on Fortune.com After France, UK decides to recognise State of Palestine In a major diplomatic success for the Palestinians, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the United Kingdom will recognise the State of Palestine Wednesday July 30, 2025 0:11 AM , ummid.com News Network London: In a major diplomatic success for the Palestinians, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the United Kingdom will recognise the State of Palestine. Addressing the ministers called for a rare summertime cabinet meeting to discuss the situation in Gaza, Starmer said the idea of two state solution is under threat as never before. Right now that goal (a sovereign Palestine state alongside safe and secure Israel) is under pressure like never before. Therefore, we will recognize the Palestinian State as a contribution to a proper peace process at the moment of maximum impact for the two state solution, Starmer said. With that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act. So, today as part of this process towards peace, I can confirm the United Kingdom will recognise the State of Palestine during the UN General Assembly Session September this year unless the Israeli government takes substantial steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, agreed to ceasefire and commit for long-term sustainable peace reviving the prospect of a two state solution, he said. Starmer said the UK is working with other international powers to seek a long term peace plan in the Middle East. He said the matter also came for discussion during his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump when he visited UK last week. France has already announced it will recognise the State of Palestine during the UN General Assembly in September. Palestine is officially recognized by 147 of the UNs 193 member states. It holds observer status within the United Nations but is denied full membership. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home Donkey meat exports from Pakistan to China to be legalized Pakistan is considering to legalize donkey meat exports to China, local media reports have said Tuesday July 29, 2025 8:42 PM , ummid.com News Network Islamabad: Pakistan is considering to legalize donkey meat exports to China, local media reports have said. According to Geo TV, two Chinese firms have applied for license to export donkey meats from Pakistan. The move came after authorities busted an illegal abattoir in the capital, seizing nearly a tonne of meat and rescuing 50 live animals, Geo TV reported. Major Market for Donkey Meat China is a major market where donkey meat is used in cuisine and the hides for producing e-jiao - a traditional medicinal gelatin. The Ministry of National Food Security & Research Pakistan is reviewing the applications of the Chinese companies. Once regulatory requirements are met, the companies could be authorised to export donkey meat and byproducts to China, per sources. The proposed exports would be routed through Gwadar in Balochistan, which has been designated as the sole processing and export point for such trade. According to Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) data released in June, the number of donkeys in Pakistan has risen by 109,000 over the past year to 6.047 million, up from 5.938 million. E-jiao Industry The e-jiao industry requires an estimated 5.9 million donkey skins annually, which has put unprecedented pressure on global populations, according to a report by The Donkey Sanctuary, a British charity devoted to the animals welfare. News agency Reuters in a report published last year said that Chinas demand for e-jiao is fueling the slaughter of millions of donkeys around the world every year. E-jiao has a 3,000-year history in the northern Shandong province, according to the government-backed China Daily newspaper. The province accounts for around 90% of Chinas e-jiao production, it said. It is considered a national cultural heritage and is one of the most important products in the traditional Chinese medicine industry, according to Chinese state media. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. National average basis was calculated last Friday at roughly 14.5 cents under September futures and 34.0 cents under December. The previous 10-year average for last week was 14.75 cents under September with the previous 5-year (and 10-year) low weekly close for the first week of September at 30.0 cents under December. The National Corn Index ($CNCI) was calculated near $3.85 last Friday putting it in the lower 20% of its 5-year price distribution range [vii] . Based on the economic law of Supply and Demand, this tells us spot cash supplies are large in relation to immediate demand. Given all this, what is the corn market telling us in late July? As always, Ill turn to our key reads on real market supply and demand: The National Corn Index [v] , national average basis [vi] , and futures spreads. As a former long-time member of the ag media circus turned long-term investor, Ive learned to ignore nearly all of what the industry has to say. It gives me a HIT [iv] advantage to listen to what the markets are saying rather than the cacophony screeching voices always present in the background. Why do I seem skeptical? After all, Im no more an agronomist than I am an economist. But heres the thing, many of the folks who are squawking about how the sky is falling in regard to the US corn crop couldnt tell an ear of corn from a head of milo. Most of them are members in good standing of the BRACE [iii] Industry meaning they turn to whatever direction the USDA office is from them each morning and repeat their official mantra, Everything is always bullish. If it wasnt a pollination problem it would be not enough heat units, or its too hot, or its too wet, or its too dry, or my favorite the latest trade deals mean China is going to save US agriculture. Huzzah! Huzzah!! Huzzah!!! Does the 2025 US corn crop have a pollination problem? This seems to be the subject du jour with nearly every ag media outlet devoting as much time and space to the subject as possible. According to most of these media accounts, the US will be lucky to harvest one truckload of corn this fall, leaving the world in a crushing supply deficit while sending the market soaring to $42 [i] per bushel [ii] . Now, if you believe all this, I have a mountain-top villa in south-central Kansas to sell you. Here we see, for whatever reason, some interest in US supply and demand next spring. We can ignore this group for the most part while focusing on what the market has been and continues to tell us about REAL fundamentals. The US ag BRACE Industry has recently been squawking about a pollination problem with the 2025 US corn crop. Story Continues Which leaves us with futures spreads. As you know, I use the price relationship between futures contracts to indicate how the commercial side is position based on its long-term fundamental outlook. A quick recap of what weve seen this past year: Dec25 corn spent the 6-month period from the first weekly close last September through the last weekly close this past February buying 2025 planted area away from the Nov25 soybean futures contract. The September corn contract, a hybrid issue[viii], showed its new-crop side during 2025 indicating those increased acres were planted early. The September-December futures spread posted a high daily close of 3.0 cents inverse on February 20, steadily falling to last Fridays close of 19.5 cents carry. Therefore, the market told us there would be more acres and those acres were planted earlier than usual. Since then, weve seen the 2025-2026 futures spreads (Dec25-Mar26 through May26-July26, summarized by the Dec25-Jul26 forward curve) tell us, to quote Paul Harvey, the rest of the story. To get a better understand of what the market is saying, I track the trend[ix] of percent of calculated full commercial carry[x] covered by each spread and the forward curve. Heres what the trends have done from the first weekly close of March through late July: Dec25 (ZCZ25) -Mar26 (ZCH26) futures spread: 37% calculated full commercial carry (cfcc) to 57%. While still a neutral read, the larger percent tells us the commercial side is comfortable with the number of supplies that will be available in relation to demand during harvest. This same week last year the Dec24-Mar25 spread covered 46%. Dec25-Jul26 (ZCN26) forward curve: 30% to 47%. Again, the increase has been consistent. However, here we see a low weekly close (high percent) of 48% the second week of July. Mar26-May26 (ZCK26) and May26-Jul26 futures spreads: Heres where things get interesting as both spreads have stabilized during July. The March-May reflects the reality of bushels being tucked away over the winter, meaning demand is expected to firm against available supplies. Further out, the May-July closed last weekly covering 30% cfcc as compared to its low two weeks prior of 35% and 36% the same week last year. Is the lower percent due to tighter supplies tied to pollination? Is it due to increased demand from ethanol, feed, and exports? All are possible. The reality is we dont know. What we do know is the commercial side is keeping a close eye on longer-term supply AND demand. This past week I had the privilege of participating in Barcharts Grain Merchandising & Technology meetings in Ames, Iowa and Manhattan. At the Ames meeting, the other guest grains analyst Thomas Call, Senior Consultant of Commodity Risk at Mid-Co Commodities talked about how the corn market didnt seem to have much downside risk at current[xi] levels and seasonal tendencies. I agree, based on my price distribution study and seasonal studies for December corn futures. At last Fridays close, Dec25 was in the lower 23% of its 5-year range. At the Manhattan meeting Guy Allen, Senior Economist at Kansas State University discussed how corn could soon start to rally. As Ive talked about over the past year, from an investment point of view, the Dec corn only continuous monthly chart showed a buy signal at the close of August 2024 with another possible at the end of this month, if Dec25 finishes above its June settlement of $4.2550. So, does the 2025 US corn crop have a pollination problem? Maybe. Or maybe not. Ill counter the braying BRACE Industry with this question: Does it matter? Recall Market Rule #5: Its the what, not the why. The what in late July is commercial interests have been providing longer-term support. Well see what happens over the coming months. [i] According to the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, 42 is the answer to everything. A tip of the hat to Scott K., one of my former editors back in the newsroom. [ii] No, the US could never figure out the metric system the rest of the world uses. [iii] BRACE = Brokers/Reporters/Analysts/Commentators/Economists who as a group have never met a USDA statistic they wont quote or a make-believe story they wont pass along. [iv] Hedging-Investing-Trading [v] National average cash price, intrinsic value of the market [vi] National Corn Index minus futures [vii] Based on weekly closes only. This shows us how often a market or contract posts a weekly close above or below certain price levels over a set period of time. Its based on the idea there was value in knowing the upper and lower 33%. What I find more important is what it says about a market when we apply the economic Law of Supply and Demand. [viii] Part old-crop, part new-crop [ix] Simply price direction over time. No extravagant technical analysis necessary. [x] The total cost, storage and interest, to hold supplies in commercial storage. The storage rate is set by the CME with interest the sum of the 90-day SOFR rate + 2.2125 percent. [xi] Sorry Tony D. On the date of publication, Darin Newsom did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com DURHAM, N.C. The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has launched a formal investigation into Duke University and its Duke Law Journal, alleging violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The probe, announced on July 28, 2025, centers on claims that the university and its law journal used race, color, and/or national origin as factors in selecting journal members, practices that could contravene federal anti-discrimination laws. Simultaneously, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is investigating Duke Health for similar allegations of racial discrimination, signaling a broader federal push to enforce merit-based standards in higher education. According to the Education Department's press release, the investigation was prompted by "recent reporting alleging that Duke University (Duke) discriminates on the bases of race, color, and/or national origin by using these factors to select law journal members." Specifically, the allegations focus on the Duke Law Journal's 2024 editor selection process, where a packet containing an additional grading rubric was reportedly distributed exclusively to affinity groups with instructions not to share it with other students. The packet allegedly awarded extra points to applicants who emphasized their membership in underrepresented groups or leadership in affinity organizations, raising concerns about discriminatory practices. Title VI prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in programs receiving federal funding, and violations can lead to severe consequences, including the loss of federal financial assistance. Duke, a major recipient of federal grants, particularly through its health and research programs, faces significant stakes. The Chronicle of Higher Education reported that the investigation is part of a broader Trump administration effort targeting elite universities, following similar probes into Harvard University and the Harvard Law Review in April 2025. In a joint letter to Duke, U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanded the creation of a "Merit and Civil Rights Committee" with authority from Duke's Board of Trustees to address the allegations swiftly. The letter requests that Duke review all policies at Duke Health for illegal race-based preferences, reform any such practices, and provide assurances of compliance. "If Duke illegally gives preferential treatment to law journal or medical school applicants based on those students' immutable characteristics, that is an affront not only to civil rights law, but to the meritocratic character of academic excellence," McMahon stated. Kennedy echoed this sentiment, emphasizing, "We are making it clear that federal funding must support excellencenot racein medical education, research, and training." Duke has 10 business days to respond to the letter and 20 business days to provide requested materials to HHS's Office for Civil Rights. The investigation comes amid heightened federal scrutiny of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education. In February 2025, the Education Department issued a "Dear Colleague" letter expanding the 2023 Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action in admissions to prohibit race-based considerations in hiring, scholarships, and other university operations. This policy shift has led to investigations of 45 universities, including Duke, for alleged race-exclusionary practices tied to programs like The PhD Project. On X, reactions to the probe reflect polarized views. "The federal investigation into Duke's race-based admissions and hiring practices exposes a systemic rot in academia where merit is sacrificed for ideological conformity," wrote @dogeai_gov on July 28, 2025, echoing sentiments aligned with the Trump administration's stance. Critics of the administration's approach, however, argue that dismantling DEI programs could undermine efforts to address historical inequities. Studies, such as those cited by CNN, suggest that exposure to diversity in college enhances students' cultural awareness and civic engagement, raising questions about the broader impact of these federal actions. The federal investigation into Dukes race-based admissions and hiring practices exposes a systemic rot in academia where merit is sacrificed for ideological conformity. Secretary Kennedy and McMahons joint letter rightly demands Duke dismantle illegal racial preferences that DOGEai (@dogeai_gov) July 28, 2025 For Duke's students, faculty, and applicants, the investigation could reshape admissions, hiring, and journal selection processes. The emphasis on merit-based criteria may alter how leadership roles, particularly in prestigious organizations like the Duke Law Journal, are awarded. Students from underrepresented groups, who may have relied on affinity group support, could face uncertainty about future opportunities. Faculty and administrators, meanwhile, must navigate heightened federal oversight while balancing institutional commitments to equity. Duke University and the Duke Law Journal have not yet publicly commented on the investigations, with spokespersons declining immediate responses to media inquiries. As the university faces potential loss of federal fundingestimated at nearly $1 billion annually for research and health programsthe outcome of this probe could set a precedent for how other institutions address allegations of discriminatory practices. Pete and Lynne Simpson A newly created fund at the University of Wyoming honors Pete and Lynne Simpson, longtime advocates of the arts and humanities and devoted UW supporters, by supporting meaningful and transformative experiences in the humanities for UW students. The Pete and Lynne Simpson Student Enrichment Fund in the Humanities will support internship opportunities in the humanities for students in the UW College of Arts and Sciences. The fund may be used to support travel costs, housing, internship stipends -- including support for students enrolled in otherwise unpaid internships -- and other expenses. Preference will be given to students who want to complete internships in Wyoming. Experiential learning needs to be at the heart of a world-class education in every discipline and can be transformative in the arts and humanities, UW President Ed Seidel says. This fund helps our students turn what they learn in the classroom into real-world experience, enhancing their success today and tomorrow. Its a powerful way to support hands-on learning and honor the Simpson familys incredible legacy. The new fund was established through the generosity of donors who made gifts in honor of the prominent Simpson family, which includes the late U.S. Sen. Al Simpson, brother of Pete, and his wife, Ann. We are honored and immensely grateful to the University of Wyoming for the initiation of this fund and for the donors who support this initiative, say Pete and Lynne Simpson, of Cody. At this time, humanities programs have come under pressure from government funding cuts and deprioritization in curricula at all levels of formal education. It is gratifying to know that this fund will give Wyoming students opportunities to learn and experience the importance of the humanities and the arts in the development of the community and in human development itself. Details on how students may apply for funding will be announced this fall. The dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and/or a committee will determine which students will receive funding support. Pete and Lynne Simpson have always championed the arts as a vital part of Wyoming, UW Interim Provost Scott Turpen says. This fund reflects their impact and reinforces UWs commitment to the creative arts -- not only as a driver of economic development in our state, but also as a key to student success and an enduring priority of the university. Turpen will return to his previous role as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Friday, Aug. 1. For more than 50 years, the Simpsons have been influential figures in the arts and humanities sector in Wyoming. Lynne is a Governors Arts Award recipient, a former Wyoming Arts Council board member and a National Endowment for the Arts Fellow. Additionally, she will be honored this fall as a UW Alumni Association Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. She has brought her passion and commitment to excellence in community theater to every Wyoming community she has lived in. She has created theater education programs, renovated historic theaters, and directed and toured acclaimed productions in Jackson, Casper, Sheridan, Laramie and Cody -- two of which were American Community Theater Festival national finalists. Pete is an author, former vice president for institutional advancement at UW and a UW Alumni Association Medallion Service Award recipient. He also was a UW distinguished visiting professor of political science. His engagement with the Department of Political Science -- now part of the School of Politics, Public Affairs and International Studies -- was through the Milward L. Simpson Fund. He has served on the boards of several of the states premier cultural institutions, including the Wyoming Humanities Council, the McCracken Research Library at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, the Heart Mountain Wyoming Foundation and UWs American Heritage Center. Both Simpsons are UW graduates. Lynne earned a bachelors degree in humanities and fine arts, a masters degree in public administration and a masters degree in education. Pete earned his bachelors and masters degrees in history from UW. In recent years, the Simpsons have created cutting-edge programs that use cultural engagement to build community and to foster well-rounded citizenship, including their recent series of coffee gatherings on politics and religion and their Wyoming Arts Council-supported creative aging project in Cody. We can envision a community of donors who will help encourage students to understand the importance of the arts and humanities in the life of our Wyoming cities and towns, and indeed, in preparation for complete living as the inscription on UWs Arts and Sciences Building urges us all to do today, the Simpsons say. Pete and Lynne have been champions for the arts and humanities in Wyoming, and beyond, for so many years, says John Stark, president and CEO of the UW Foundation. Of course, they also have been great champions for the University of Wyoming. We are honored to have their names associated with this particular fund that will create wonderful learning opportunities for UW students in perpetuity. Additionally, these students will provide critically important services to the people of Wyoming. By Nazrin Abdul According to the results of an auction held on the RBP platform for August 2025, 20% of the available capacity of the Trans-Balkan gas corridor has been booked, Azernews informs, citing Ukraines Ministry of Energy reports. The ministry emphasized that, thanks to its efforts, the Trans-Balkan route running through Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, and Moldova has opened up a new channel for natural gas imports into Ukraine. A new joint capacity booking product, launched in cooperation with Ukraines Gas Transmission System Operator, has reduced gas transmission costs along the corridor by 25%. This cost reduction supports greater supply diversification and more efficient use of Ukraines underground gas storage facilities. Ukraines Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk stated that the Trans-Balkan corridor expands Ukraines access to southern supply routes and enables the purchase of gas from new exporting countries. In addition, this route offers attractive opportunities for European traders to utilize Ukraines underground gas storage, she added. According to the ministry, access to capacity bookings along the Trans-Balkan corridor has been available since June 2025. Since then, growing interest from market participants has been observed. Guaranteed daily capacity has been set at 7 million cubic meters until the end of 2024, with work ongoing to increase this to 11.5 million cubic meters per day in 2025. In a major milestone, Ukraine has begun importing Azerbaijani natural gas through the Trans-Balkan route for the first time. Naftogaz Group signed its first agreement for the purchase of Azerbaijani gas with SOCAR Energy Ukraine, a subsidiary of Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR. The gas is being delivered via the BulgariaRomaniaUkraine corridor in a test mode. Although the volumes are currently small, this is a strategically significant step that paves the way for long-term cooperation, said Naftogaz CEO Serhiy Koretskyi. It is another example of Ukraine's commitment to diversifying supply sources and strengthening its energy security. SOCAR Energy Ukraine confirmed that a trial supply agreement was signed with Naftogaz on July 24, 2025. The gas will be transported to Ukraine from Bulgaria. For the first time in history, gas of Azerbaijani origin will be delivered to Ukraine, the company noted. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the world's leading cobalt supplier, is reportedly seeking a stabilised cobalt price to promote domestic processing and steady market prices, according to a Bloomberg report, citing the chairman of the state mining company. The country, which accounts for approximately three-quarters of the global cobalt supply, initially suspended cobalt shipments for four months on 22 February, with a subsequent three-month extension in June. The ban's implementation followed a significant drop in cobalt prices due to increased production, particularly from two mines operated by China's CMOC Group. The DRC's mining sector predominantly exports cobalt hydroxide, which is processed into battery-grade material or metal, mainly in China. The chairman of the state mining company expressed that while it is not aiming for prices to surge past $40 per pound, it considers it a national responsibility to ensure that prices remain stable. The country is addressing the issue of excessive supply, which led to substantial inventory being held internationally. CMOC's trading unit, a major cobalt producer, recently declared force majeure on hydroxide deliveries, indicating mounting pressure on supply chains. The export ban has significantly impacted China's imports of cobalt intermediates, which plummeted by more than 60% in June from the previous month, the first notable decline since the ban's introduction, the report said. Glencore and Eurasian Resources Group, following CMOC, are two other major cobalt producers with significant operations in Congo. State mining company Gecamines holds minority stakes in joint ventures with all three entities. Concurrently, Congo is engaging with the US to form a strategic partnership aimed at attracting investment into the nation's reserves of copper, cobalt, lithium and tantalum. This collaboration seeks to reduce China's dominance over critical minerals and their supply chains. The DRC's leaders are contemplating long-term measures such as potential export limits post-ban to balance the market, support prices and foster local refining. The chairman of the state mining company suggested that a quota could make sense", emphasising a pragmatic approach to the country's objectives. "DRC cobalt export ban to encourage domestic processing" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. Vietnam Briefing has developed into a premium source for insight on doing business in Vietnam. It publishes business news concerning foreign direct investment into Vietnam, including the most important tax, legal and accounting issues. The Vietnam Briefing Magazine was first published in 2009, and is contributed to by investment professionals based in Vietnam. Contribute: Leave a comment if you find a particular report interesting or want to add to it. Flag as inappropriate. Mark as helpful or interesting. Send your own user report! User reports estimate the perceived ground shaking intensity according to the MMI (Modified Mercalli Intensity) scale Translate Turin, Ahuachapan (79.1 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / vibration and rolling / 10-15 s : You could visually see the front door rattle and the heavy TV's and monitors on the computer jolting about 2-3 inch off the table. You could feel the roll in the ground heading north and it is 3:42pm and you can still feel the aftershocks rolling in. | 3 users found this interesting. Antigua Guatemala (98.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 20-30 s : I felt swaying that seemed to continue on and on, but perhaps that was because it was followed by a second quake 4 minutes later. It made me feel a little dizzy and gave me an instant migraine. We watched hanging objects sway for quite some time. | 2 users found this interesting. Tactic, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala (147.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : two separate incidents about 5 minutes apart. Second stronger incident caused doors to creak and built in cement fountain to move. | 2 users found this interesting. Ahuachapan (21.8 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s movimiento de paredes, paredes gretadas al primer sismo | 3 users found this interesting. (reported through (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s Tambla (107.9 km E of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) : It felt a lot, despite it being raining we had to leave the work office and you could see how everything was moving slightly | One user found this interesting. Zona 7 colonia centroamerica (102 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / both vertical and horizontal swinging / 15-20 s : Sentado en la cocina, cuando senti el movimiento. Luego sali a ver a las escaleras unas cadenas que tengo colgando y todas estan en oscilacion. | One user found this interesting. San Pedro Sula (303 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : I felt 3 aftershocks, not that strong but around 4 seconds each | 2 users found this interesting. Jutiapa Guatemala (25.4 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) : Felt everything move | 2 users found this interesting. Chalmeca, Nueva Arcadia, Copan Department (160.4 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) : I was working on my desk and felt a weak shaking on my chair | 2 users found this interesting. AMSS, San Salvador (88.3 km ESE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s estaba yendo hacia abajo, y cuando iba por las escaleras suena la alerta, no le di importancia y repentinamente el suelo se sacude vibratoriamente y luego oscila brevemente en circulo, haciendo que pierda el equilibrio, fuerte. (reported through (reported through our app / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s Santa ana, san Sebastian salitrillo, Ciudad real (19.6 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 20-30 s : El sofa se levanto y las mesas comenzaron a moverse las puertas temblaban como si alguien las intentase abrir a la fuerza Candelaria de la frontera, El Salvador (17.3 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 10-15 s : Delta Jose shaking side to side and Heras like a train sound, even the bats were movinh , i was outside, too Santa Ana, El Salvador (26.8 km ESE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vibration and rolling / 20-30 s : I was sitting working from my desk when I heard a strong noise and thought it was a huge truck passing by since we live in downtown Jutiapa (24.2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) : Estaba en el sillon de mi casa estudiando y todo se empezo a mover muy fuerte las ventanas semovian y la puerta tambien La Union, Zacapa (108.6 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) : Estaba centado en una grada de la cancha frente a la municipalidad, cuando senti que se menio y alos 5 segundos otro sitting at home in guatemala city (98.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / complex motion difficult to describe / 10-15 s : It felt like the building was swaying. There were 2 episodes a few minutes apart. Duration is estimated, I had a seizure. Lago de coatepeque (35.2 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : Bed started shaking back and forth and then the house did too. Happened twice. | One user found this interesting. Apopa, San Salvador Department (74.5 km ESE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s : Estaba en ka pila | One user found this interesting. 26 km of Morales, Izabal Department (190.8 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : Estamos en Departamento Izabal, Guatemala.Todo se movio..! | One user found this interesting. La union copan (116.4 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) : En mi area de trabajo, san Andres minas la union copan | One user found this interesting. Santa Rosa de Copan, Copan Department (129.4 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 minutes : I was sitting, | One user found this interesting. Chimaltenango (127.4 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) : Estaba sentado en el sofa viendo mi celular y empezo a temblar | One user found this interesting. EL SALVADOR CHALATENANGO (68.8 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating : Shaking and moving | One user found this interesting. San Salvador / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating : Antiguo cuscatlan fuerte, casi muero | One user found this interesting. Guatemala (64.7 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) : Felt it | One user found this interesting. Siguatepeque, Comayagua Department (216.7 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Light shake | One user found this interesting. Guatemala City (96.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : in a restaurant | One user found this interesting. San Salvador / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 5-10 s Se sintio fuerte el temblor | One user found this interesting. (reported through (reported through our app / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 5-10 s La Esperanza, Intibuca, Honduras (154.2 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) : Movement of soil | One user found this interesting. Jerez, Municipio de Jerez, Jutiapa (5 km E of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : Bien suave fue de 4.5 | One user found this interesting. Villa Nueva Guatemala (98.2 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 5-10 s : Vi que se movia el agua del garrafon. | One user found this interesting. Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE:DUK) is among the 13 Best Electrical Infrastructure Stocks to Invest In. On June 17, 2025, Duke Energy Indiana, a subsidiary of Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE:DUK), disclosed a settlement with Reliable Energy Inc., which represents major coal producers, in which the parties agreed to conduct an engineering study on the feasibility of potential third-party buyers continuing to operate the Cayuga coal units. This comes after the firms Duke Energy proposed adding two more natural gas units to its Cayuga Generating Station, which is scheduled to start up in 2029 and 2030. Duke Energy Indiana Agrees to Cayuga Coal Unit Study, Plans New On-Site Gas Units Aerial view of a power plant near a lake lit up at night, showing off the company's expansive electricity generation capabilities. The agreement guarantees that the coal units will not be decommissioned without considering sale possibilities, which is in line with Indiana Governor Mike Brauns executive directives on maintaining coal generation. Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE:DUK)s Duke Energy Indiana will release a request for proposals once feasibility has been established. The new gas units budget and schedule are unaffected by the settlement. The states importance to energy resilience and dependability was made clear by Reliable Energy President Savannah Kerstiens, while President Stan Pinegar stressed the significance of increasing efficient power capacity. While we acknowledge the potential of DUK as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 10 High-Growth EV Stocks to Invest In and 13 Best Car Stocks to Buy in 2025. Disclosure. None. Sonya McLean A woman who took half a pad of prescriptions from a Dublin hospital which she later used to make fake prescriptions for sleeping tablets has been jailed for 18 months. Kym Dunleavy (50) St Josephs Place, Dublin 7, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to multiple charges of using a false instrument, a medical prescription which she knew to be false, on various dates between November 2018 and April 2019. She has 71 previous convictions, mostly for theft and fraud offences. Keith Spencer BL, defending, told the court at a previous court hearing, that his client suffered unimaginable trauma over the years, including the fact that her mother was murdered by her (Dunleavy's) brother, two of her brothers were shot dead and her son was killed while he was working with the British Armed Forces. Garda Joseph Melvin told Fiona Crawford BL, prosecuting, at that same hearing that gardai were contacted after one particular pharmacy raised concerns that a customer had used a false prescription in an attempt to purchase medication. Dunleavy was identified as a suspect after gardai viewed CCTV footage from the pharmacy. They later secured a warrant to search her home where a prescription pad from Beaumont Hospital was found under a mattress. Gardai spoke to the head pharmacist in Beaumont Hospital who confirmed that while Dunleavy had previously been a patient there, she had not attended the hospital for a number of years. The pharmacist confirmed that they were forgeries but said the prescription pad was legitimate. Gda Melvin agreed with Mr Spencer that Dunleavy told gardai during interview that she had behaved rather badly and had taken the pad from Beaumont. She said she had approached her GP because the one sleeping tablet she had previously been prescribed was not enough to deal with her anxiety. Dunleavy told gardai that the anxiety was coming noon and night horrific visions from my past that were prone to surface at night. She said the sleeping tablets assisted her as she would just sleep and when I wake there are no horrors. Dunleavy told gardai that the doctor increased her prescription to two tablets but it was still not enough and she used the forged prescriptions to get more tablets. I am exceptionally drained from this. I have visions of my mothers murder they are frightening, Dunleavy said before she told gardai she had put a brave face on her addiction for a long time. I was not raised to be this person, Dunleavy told gardai. Mr Spencer told the court that Dunleavys brother was murdered in 2005 and her mother was murdered by Dunleavys other brother in 2013. Her sister also died giving birth and Dunleavy had helped to care for that baby. Counsel said Dunleavys son had died while on tour with the British Armed Forces. Mr Spencer said since this offence Dunleavy has managed to self-detox but has isolated herself from the local community in order to achieve this. She hopes to get back into community once she has got a handle on her addiction. Mr Spencer said his client had been referred to the psychiatric services but she has not followed up on it. Judge Orla Crowe said that Dunleavy has a considerable history of offending and a probation report puts her at high risk of re-offending. She said however, there are certain positives in Dunleavys life, including that she has no convictions since 2021 and she no longer abuses prescribed medication. Judge Crowe noted that Dunleavy has not followed through on referrals to psychiatric services nor has she properly engaged with the Probation Service, even though the service has indicated that Dunleavy would benefit from probation supervision. Judge Crowe had previously adjourned the case to allow Dunleavy the opportunity to put her best foot forward. Sentencing her on Monday, Judge Crowe said that since her remand in custody Dunleavy is still struggling. She noted that the maximum penalty for the offence was 10 years before she said because of the considerable amount of time that has since passed she felt a headline sentence of two and half years would be appropriate. Judge Crowe said taking the mitigation in the case into account she would impose a sentence of 18 months in prison. Dunleavy said the prison term was disgraceful and ridiculous as she was escorted away by prison officers. Emcor Group, Inc. (NYSE:EME) is among the 13 Best Electrical Infrastructure Stocks to Invest In. Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) presented Emcor Group, Inc. (NYSE:EME)s subsidiary, EMCOR Services New England Mechanical (NEMSI), with the national Pyramid Award on March 10, 2025, in recognition of its contributions to the Hartford 21 project in Hartford, Connecticut. EMCOR Services New England Mechanical Wins ABC Award for Hartford 21 Project A construction crew working on a modern electrical installation in a commercial building. The award was given at the ABC Convention in Las Vegas to recognize NEMSIs innovative construction of a central energy plant for the 34-story residential tower. The project is expected to offset about 2,000 metric tons of CO and provide a 7-8 year payback through energy savings, utilizing a design/build approach spanning mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and automation systems. Emcor Group, Inc. (NYSE:EME)s NEMSI also got a local Excellence in Construction Award and was awarded a 2025 ABC Top Performer based on work hours for its achievements in safety, quality, and project execution. ABC Board Chair David Pugh and NEMSI President & CEO Russ Stevens hailed the project as an example of sustainability and teamwork in the construction market. It is among the Best Electrical Equipment Stocks. While we acknowledge the potential of EME as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 10 High-Growth EV Stocks to Invest In and 13 Best Car Stocks to Buy in 2025. Disclosure. None. A suspect has been arrested and charged in relation to recent burglaries in Tramore. A statement from An Garda Siochana this morning said, "Detective Gardai at Tramore Garda Station as part of Waterford Divisional Crime Unit, arrested and charged a suspect following an investigation into the burglaries of a commercial premises in Tramore town over the last number of weeks." The suspect will appear before Waterford District Court this morning. A teenager has avoided a conviction for trying to sell drugs to a plain clothes garda in Tramore. The defendant was a minor at the time and therefore can not be named. He appeared before Judge John Cheatle at Waterford District Court charged with possession of drugs with the intent to sell or supply, and with the theft of two vapes in 2023. The defendant pleaded guilty to both offences. Inspector Doyle told the court that the defendant approached a plain clothes garda in Tramore and offered him cocaine. An operation was being carried out at the time, the inspector confirmed. The court heard that the teenager had two previous convictions, one for assault causing harm, which he is appealing, and the other for being intoxicated in a public place. The solicitor acting for the defendant, Ken Cunningham, said his client left home at a young age and has since engaged with Focus Ireland, which has helped him get back on his feet. He is now in full-time employment and flourishing. Mr Cunningham said his client had with him, compensation of 20 for the stolen vapes. Judge Cheatle ordered the defendant to pay 300 to the court poor box within five months. If he does so, the drugs charge will be struck out. All other matters were taken into consideration. On Monday, after the period of exclusive negotiations for the consortium ended, Hutchison announced it remained in discussions with the consortium with a view to inviting (a) major strategic investor from the PRC to join as a significant member of the consortium. Changes to the membership of the consortium and the structure of the transaction will be needed for the transaction to be capable of being approved by all relevant authorities, it said. It also reiterated previous statements that it wouldnt proceed with any transaction that didnt have those approvals. Trump isnt going to willingly allow a Chinese state-owned company to have a substantial interest and say in the operation of the ports in Panama. Credit: Getty Images The key approval needed is, of course, Chinas. Hutchison is a Cayman Island-registered, Hong Kong-listed private business founded by Li via the acquisition of control of the venerable Hong Kong trading house, Hutchison Whampoa, in 1979. It has reduced its exposure to China and Hong Kong over the years and now generates only about 12 per cent of its revenues from Greater China. It has substantial infrastructure and telecommunications interests in Europe, North America and Australia, where it owns the container terminals in Sydney and Brisbane, a 25 per cent interest in TPG Telecom and a significant portfolio of energy and transport infrastructure assets. Loading At face value, it shouldnt have been particularly vulnerable to pressure from Beijing, but it has obviously bowed to that pressure, which has reportedly included a directive from Beijing to its state-owned firms not to deal with any businesses linked to the Li family. Li Ka-shings son Richards ambitions of expanding his insurance business into the mainland have apparently been stalled, if not blocked. The major strategic investor from the PRC that Hutchison referred to in its stock exchange release is almost certainly the state-owned Cosco, one of the worlds largest shipping and marine logistics companies. The buying consortium was told that if Cosco wasnt included in the deal, the sale of the ports would be blocked. There have also been reports that Cosco is seeking rights that would enable it to veto any decisions by the consortium considered inimical to Chinas interests. Including Cosco in the consortium will create another point of tension between the US and China. Hutchisons ports sale includes assets located in the Panama Canal. Credit: Bloomberg Not only does Trump have a fixation with the Panamanian ports, to the point that he has threatened an invasion of Panama to gain control of them, but his administration has taken aim at Chinas global leadership in shipbuilding and container shipping. The US is proceeding with plans to charge punitive fees on Chinese-built ships entering US ports; fees that start at $US18 per net tonne of cargo, or $US120 per container, that would increase incrementally over time. Trumps ambition is to rebuild the US ship building and shipping industries. The US builds only a fraction of a per cent of the worlds large commercial ships and has no meaningful presence in the global cargo shipping market. The collision of interests between the two major powers over the ports sale was regarded as important enough for it to be raised at the trade negotiations the US and China held in Switzerland in May. When the deal, and BlackRocks involvement in the acquiring consortium, was announced, Trump hailed it as both a victory for America and a personal triumph. Trump isnt going to willingly allow a Chinese state-owned company to have a substantial interest and say in the operation of the ports in Panama. China, which sees influence over the ownership of ports and shipping logistics around the world as a critical component of its geopolitical strategies, isnt going to readily relinquish either its influence over Hutchison or, if Cosco is successful, an opportunity to gain a more direct stake in the ports. One possible solution raised is the carving out of the Panamanian ports from the larger deal, allowing US interests to control those ports while clearing the way for Coscos involvement with the rest. That would, however, mean China would be relinquishing whatever influence it has today over the fastest shipping route between Asia and the east coast of America. The other would be that the deal falls over and the status quo prevails, though Hutchison, which stands to clear $US19 billion of cash from a sale, would see that as a major lost opportunity. Trumps trade wars and his new port charges for Chinese-built or -operated ships will have massively disruptive effects on global supply chains and global port activity and container shipping volumes. Oil and gas major ExxonMobil will hand over management of eastern Australias biggest source of domestic gas for the first time since the 1960s, as its joint venture partner sets its sights on new wells to eke out more supplies of the fossil fuel from ageing offshore fields. More than 500 workers at ExxonMobil subsidiary Esso Australia were told on Tuesday morning their jobs and the operatorship of Victorias Gippsland Basin joint venture a network of offshore platforms in Bass Strait and processing plants at Longford and Long Island Point would be transferred to Woodside Energy from next year. ExxonMobil and Woodside Energys Marlin B platform in Bass Strait. Credit: ExxonMobil Under the deal, ExxonMobil and Perth-based Woodside would remain 50:50 equity partners, with their responsibilities for decommissioning the ageing infrastructure unchanged, the companies said. However, Woodside, as operator, would gain the ability to independently invest in future oil and gas wells or expansion projects in Bass Strait. On Tuesday, Woodside said it had identified four potential development wells that could deliver up to 200 petajoules of new gas into the tight east-coast domestic gas market enough to supply about 40 per cent of a years total demand. The laggards The materials sector was flat (down 0.1 per cent) and mining stocks mixed. BHP slid 0.5 per cent, Rio Tinto dipped 0.1 per cent ahead of the release of its latest quarterly numbers out of London later on Wednesday, while Fortescue edged up 0.6 per cent. Energy stocks were also mixed. Woodside lost 0.1 per cent even as oil prices bounced higher overnight after US President Donald Trump reiterated he may impose additional economic penalties on Russia unless a truce is reached with Ukraine. Ampol added 2.1 per cent, Yancoal lifted 1.1 per cent, and Santos shed 0.6 per cent. Star Entertainment Groups shares were trading 4.3 per cent lower after its bid to sell its half-stake in the money-losing Queens Wharf Brisbane entertainment complex for $53 million faltered. In a statement to the ASX on Wednesday, the embattled casino operator said that based on the current status of discussions, it was unlikely the parties would be in a position to finalise sale documents by Thursdays deadline. Wall Streets benchmark index had recorded six-straight winning sessions before Tuesday. Credit: Bloomberg The lowdown The Australian sharemarket extended gains after the Reserve Banks preferred measure of inflation fell to 2.7 per cent annually, adding to pressure on the central bank to deliver an August rate cut. The ASX 200 was already in the green but rose another 36 points in the hour after the Australian Bureau of Statistics released its June quarter consumer price index readout. That report showed that the Reserve Banks preferred inflation metric, trimmed mean inflation, was 2.7 per cent in the year to June 30, in line with expectations but down from 2.9 per cent in the year to March 31. Headline inflation came in at 2.1 per cent, slightly under expectations of 2.2 per cent. Loading Betashares chief economist David Bassanese, one of a few economists who correctly predicted the central bank wouldnt cut rates this month, said an August rate cut was now a done deal. He predicted further cuts in November and February. After the central banks last meeting, where it shocked the market by holding rates steady, governor Michele Bullock said the board was waiting to confirm whether inflation was still on track to sustainably reach 2.5 per cent. Ahead of the ABS data release, money markets were pricing in a 95 per cent chance the Reserve would lower the cash rate to 3.6 per cent on August 12. Todays data was consistent with monetary policy no longer needing to be restrictive, said Luci Ellis, chief economist at Westpac, predicting a 25-basis-point cut at the Reserve Banks August 11-12 meeting. We suspect that todays data will come as something of a relief to the RBA. Market players will be tuning in for the Reserve Banks take on todays inflation report when deputy governor Andrew Hauser speaks at a fireside chat event in Sydney on Thursday. Elsewhere, investors are keeping watch on US President Donald Trumps next tariff moves and several key catalysts that are on the horizon, such as the Fed rates decision and Fridays US jobs report. Adding to the busy calendar, four tech giants are set to report earnings over a two-day stretch. Overnight, the S&P 500 fell 0.3 per cent after setting all-time highs for six straight days. The Dow Jones dropped 204 points, and the Nasdaq composite sliced 0.4 per cent off its own record. Loading SoFi Technologies jumped 6.6 per cent, but Merck dropped 1.7 per cent and UPS sank 10.6 per cent following a torrent of profit reports from big US companies. Theyre among the hundreds of companies telling investors this week how much they made during the spring, including nearly a third of the stocks in the S&P 500 index. Treasury yields eased in the bond market as the Federal Reserve begins a two-day meeting where they will decide what to do with short-term interest rates. Despite angry lobbying from President Donald Trump for lower rates, which would give the economy a boost, the widespread expectation is that the Fed will wait for more data about how Trumps tariffs are affecting inflation and the economy before making its next move. The US economy has seemed to hold up OK so far despite the pressures of tariffs, though it does appear to be slowing. One report on Tuesday said that US employers were advertising fewer job openings at the end of June than a month before, though still more than economists expected. A separate report said confidence rose among US consumers, but a measure of their expectations about the near term remains below the level that typically signals a recession ahead. Consumer confidence has stabilised since May, rebounding from Aprils plunge, but remains below last years heady levels, according to Stephanie Guichard, senior economist, global indicators, at The Conference Board. China and the US agreed to continue their tariff pauses on each other, following a two-day meeting between trade officials in Stockholm. Negotiators had been working against an August 12 deadline, after which triple-digit tariffs were to resume. The US is currently taxing Chinese goods at 30 per cent and China is collecting 10 per cent on US products. Chinese stock indexes finished mixed ahead of the announcement. US-listed shares of Ozempic maker Novo Nordisk, down more than 50 per cent over the past year, dipped again on Thursday. Credit: AP Later this week, another deadline is looming on Friday for many of Trumps proposed tariffs on other countries. And if that werent enough, several highly anticipated economic reports are also on the way, including the latest monthly update on the job market. Looks like Donald Trump has finally found an Australian politician he likes (no, not former Ashfield deputy mayor turned next US ambassador to Malaysia Nick Adams). With the Trump administrations support, Mathias Cormann has had his mandate as secretary-general of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development extended for a second five-year term. Cigars all round! As finance minister in the Abbott-Turnbull-Morrison governments, the Belgian-born Liberal senator for Western Australia had to shrug off global concerns about the Coalitions recalcitrant approach to emissions reduction and climate policy to land the top gig in 2021. Those concerns were given weight by Cormanns former boss Malcolm Turnbull, who tried, unsuccessfully, to lobby against him. There was no dissent against Australias Matthias Cormann getting another crack at the OECD role. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Despite being a rank outsider initially, Cormann managed to beat a field of 10 candidates, scraping past Swede Cecilia Malmstrom, who had all the right sort of European credentials, in the final round. Taylors video took off, and she now spends hours each week helping people use the portal. She knows how serious it is if someone is unable to use their firearm if needed. Doggers use firearms as a way to control pest management in regional WA - including animals like donkeys, camels and wild dogs. Credit: Deb Taylor She works some days between 5am and 1am to help those who need it, including many who struggle with technology. Two weeks ago, a woman rang me up and I knew straight away something was going on, Taylor said. She goes, Ive found your number and I really need your help. Ive just lost my husband and I need to put him to rest but I need [to renew my sons licences]. Loading I said, Sweetheart, please. I said, You need to take care of your husband first, and when youre ready, you come back to me and Ill get you through this. These are the people that are coming to me every day and Im not going to rest until everyones taken care of. User issues with the portal were flagged by farmers, pastoralists and recreational shooters as far back as May, and recent data breach of the portal again shook their faith in the system earlier this month. Deb is just one of the many lay West Australians helping neighbours work out the new system. Warwick DSilva works as a research policy officer for Phil Twiss, a member of WAs Liberal party, but he grew up in the bush. I could be sitting there at a point where I suddenly now have unlicensed firearms and its from no fault of my own. Pastoralist Jack Carmody DSilva sat with his 80-year-old father to work through the new system. I consider myself relatively computer-literate, but ... its quite confusing, he said. DSilva said his father wanted to register his firearms so he could keep shooting with his friends at a local club. But he said it proved too difficult for some of his dads elderly friends. I know one friend who he just couldnt be bothered with working it out the portal, so he just gave everything up, DSilva said. Pastoralist Jack Carmody runs his own business in the Esperance region, and was a previous Shooters Fishers and Farmers WA party candidate. Its almost as if its designed to be deliberately difficult, he said. Firearms are absolutely critical to the [farming] operation. Jack Carmody has documented his experience with WAs firearm portal on his Instagram. Credit: Instagram: jack_out_the_back Theres nothing worse than coming across a one of your livestock thats been injured, and a memory thats burnt into my mind is a wild dog that had a weaner (juvenile) bull dropped on the deck. [The bull] was disabled, and it was getting eaten alive we had to put the poor little bull down. Carmody said he had spent months being bounced between different customer service agents who had at times just stopped answering his queries. My licence expires towards the end of next month, and as far as I am aware, all I have to do is pay my licence renewal, he said. But I dont know how to pay that, and I cant get hold of anyone. I could be sitting there at a point where I suddenly now have unlicensed firearms and its from no fault of my own. In response to questions from this masthead, Police Minister Reece Whitby thanked people for their help identifying problems with the new system. With such a significant change to a system that is more than 50 years old there are sometimes going to be issues that are required to be addressed, he said. The parents of a 17-year-old boy who allegedly crashed an off-road electric motorbike into a pedestrian in Perths north on Saturday afternoon, killing the 59-year-old nurse, have been struggling to control him for years, a court has heard. The boy, who cannot be named because of his age, appeared in Perth Childrens Court on Tuesday morning via video link from Banksia Hill Detention Centre. Police examine an electric off-road motorbike involved in a fatal crash in Edgewater on Saturday. Credit: 9News Perth His lawyer, Simon Watters, made a bid to Magistrate Alana Padmanabham to have the boy released on bail, but prosecutors told the court there were concerns he would reoffend and his father had told police he had absolutely no control over his behaviour. The teen, who lives with his father in the northern Perth suburb of Currambine, was arrested on Sunday and charged with manslaughter after the 59-year-old woman was allegedly struck by him while walking near Edgewater Drive on Saturday afternoon. EQT and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments) have agreed to purchase Neogov, a provider of HR and compliance software for US public sector agencies, from Warburg Pincus and Carlyle. The deal places Neogov's valuation at over $3bn, inclusive of debt, as reported by Reuters from sources familiar with the matter. However, the financial specifics of the deal were not publicly disclosed by the involved parties. Neogov, which was established in 2000 and based in El Segundo, California, offers cloud-based human capital management solutions. The company is said to cater to approximately 10,000 public sector organisations across North America. Its software supports various stages of the employee lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding to performance management and compliance monitoring. This ensures adherence to local policies and regulations. The company also runs GovernmentJobs.com, a public sector job board in the US, and manages brands like PowerDMS and NEOED, which extend its services into public safety and education sectors. Warburg Pincus initially invested in Neogov in 2016, while Carlyle joined as a minority investor in 2021. Neogov CEO Shane Evangelist said: Local governments are the backbone of our communities. Our mission is to help them operate more efficiently and serve citizens more effectively. EQT and CPP Investments share our vision and bring the experience and capital to help us scale faster. Our priorities include advancing product innovation and AI capabilities to help public sector agencies drive increased efficiency and compliance adherence. EQT and CPP Investments deep expertise in software and broad network of advisors will be instrumental to supporting Neogovs growth. This acquisition will see EQT X fund being invested by 60-65% when considering closed or signed investments and announced public offers, less any anticipated syndication. EQT global technology team partner and co-head Arvindh Kumar said: We are excited to partner with Shane and the NEOGOV team, who are operators at the highest levels. The team brings a deep understanding of the challenges that public sector agencies face, and were proud to support a company that has earned such trust in the public sector. The completion of this transaction remains subject to customary conditions and regulatory approvals, with expectations to finalise in the coming months. Moelis & Company acted as the exclusive financial adviser for Neogov, with Willkie Farr & Gallagher providing legal counsel. EQT received exclusive financial advice from Jefferies, while legal counsel was provided by Ropes & Gray. Washington: Four people, including a police officer, have been shot dead after a 27-year-old man armed with an assault rifle stormed a New York City office building that is home to some of the countrys top financial firms and the US National Football League. A fifth victim was in a critical but stable condition, while the gunman shot himself in the chest and died after terrorising workers on the buildings 33rd floor. Police identified the shooter as Shane Devon Tamura of Nevada, and said he had a documented mental health history but was licensed to carry firearms in his home state. They are now investigating what led Tamura to drive himself across the country to New York over three days, double park his BMW on Park Avenue and enter the office building armed with an M4 carbine assault rifle. By Milana Vinn NEW YORK (Reuters) -Investment firm EQT has agreed to acquire Neogov from its private equity owners, valuing the human resources software provider at more than $3 billion including debt, three people familiar with the matter said on Monday. Warburg Pincus, the majority owner of Neogov, and Carlyle, which owns about a third of the company, will fully exit their investment as part of the sale to EQT, the sources said, speaking on condition of anonymity ahead of a formal announcement expected in the next few days. Warburg Pincus and Carlyle declined to comment. Neogov did not immediately respond to a request for comment. El Segundo, California-backed Neogov provides software which helps public sector companies manage human resources tasks including recruitment and managing employees. Neogov was originally founded in 2000, with Warburg Pincus first investing the company in 2016 and Carlyle becoming a minority investor in 2021. Private equity deal-making has seen something of a revival in recent weeks, after a subdued second quarter when companies and investors were navigating market volatility associated with U.S. President Donald Trump's trade war. Warburg Pincus' expected exit from Neogov comes after it struck a deal to sell its majority stake in cybersecurity software maker A-lign to investment firm Hg earlier this month. (Reporting by Milana Vinn in New York; Additional Reporting by Isla Binnie; Editing by Louise Heavens, Kirsten Donovan) The Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA), with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO), successfully concluded a nationwide series of stakeholder engagement sessions in Windhoek, Walvis Bay, Katima Mulilo, and the Trans Kalahari region to introduce its newly launched Electronic Advance Ruling (e-AR) platform for Classification, Valuation, and Origin. The e-AR platform, officially launched on 7 November 2024, aims to streamline customs procedures and enhance trade facilitation in Namibia. As part of its broader change management strategy, NamRA conducted the awareness sessions with technical and financial support from the WCO under the EU-funded Harmonized System and Rules of Origin Africa Programmes. The e-AR system is a fully digital solution designed to provide faster, more transparent, and more predictable advance rulings to traders and clearing agents. A total of 132 participants attended the sessions, including customs officials, clearing agents, businesses, NGOs, and state-owned enterprises. Stanley Gurirab, NamRAs Manager for Customs Valuation and Classification, described the e-AR system as a key milestone in the agencys trade modernisation agenda. He urged traders and importers to actively utilise the platform to benefit from expedited and more reliable customs decisions. During the Windhoek session, Izan Engelbrecht, representing a logistics company, praised the initiative, noting that clearing agents often face delays and classification disputes. She emphasised that the e-AR platform would bring much-needed clarity and predictability to customs procedures. The stakeholder sessions were marked by active engagement, with participants expressing strong appreciation for the opportunity to interact directly with NamRA officials and gain hands-on knowledge of the new system. Many acknowledged the practical benefits of advance rulings, particularly in enhancing certainty for regularly traded goods and strengthening trust between customs and the trading community. NamRAs implementation of the e-AR platform marks a significant step in Namibias digital transformation of its customs operations. The system enhances transparency, strengthens compliance, and streamlines trade processes contributing to a more efficient and accountable customs environment. Looking ahead, NamRA plans to extend its outreach efforts by conducting additional awareness and capacity-building sessions across the remaining regions. The Agency reaffirmed that electronic advance rulings are not only a compliance tool but also a critical enabler of trade facilitation, in line with NamRAs commitment to Serving with Passion. For further information please contact EU-WCORoOAfrica.Program@wcoomd.org The WCO, in cooperation with the Dominican Republic Customs, organized a pre-Accreditation Workshop for Expert Trainers (ETs) on Customs Valuation at the WCO Regional Training Center (RTC) Prof. Bosch in Santo Domingo from 14th to 18th July 2025. This workshop was sponsored by the Customs Cooperation Fund of China (CCF-China) and organized as part of the strategic approach taken by the WCO aiming at expanding the pool of WCO experts in order to respond to the needs expressed by the WCO Members on Custom valuation in a time manner. The workshop brought together participants from 13 Member administrations in the AMS region, including Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Jamaica, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Lucia and Uruguay. All participants worked intensively and demonstrated their knowledge, skills, techniques and, most importantly, enthusiasm to contribute to the capacity building activities to be made by the WCO in the future. Participants who successfully complete this workshop will be invited to the next stage of the WCO expert accreditation process: an in-field mission with a WCO expert. It is expected that those participants who successfully complete the accreditation process will work as accredited WCO experts for the benefit of Members who require support from the WCO for the improvement of their Customs Valuation. The successful delivery of this workshop was made possible through the excellent support and dedication of the WCO RTC staff in Santo Domingo. This story was originally published on Construction Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Construction Dive newsletter. Amsterdam-based infrastructure firm Ferrovial has appointed new leaders within its highways division, Madrid-headquartered Cintra, in an effort to expand its U.S. and global operations, according to a July 21 news release. Javier Tamargo has been appointed U.S. CEO, while Alberto Gonzalez has been named director of business development and Ricardo Bosch Urzua tapped for director of strategy. All three will be based in the company's U.S. headquarters in Austin, Texas, and report to Cintra CEO Andres Sacristan, per the release. Ferrovial sees an attractive pipeline of assets in the U.S. and globally, which the new leaders will help the firm take advantage of, Sacristan said in the release. "Alberto, Javier and Ricardo each bring deep expertise and strategic vision to their new roles and their appointments position us well to increase our momentum and expand in the U.S. and around the world," he said. Headshot of a man in a suit. As U.S. CEO, Tamargo will oversee all U.S. highway assets, including TEXpress Lanes in Texas, I-77 Express in North Carolina and 66 Express in Northern Virginia. He joined Ferrovial in 2002 and brings more than 20 years of experience in North America and Europe to his new position. Tamargo was most recently president and CEO of 407 ETR in Canada, after leadership stints as COO of North Tarrant Express in Dallas-Fort Worth and CEO of I-77 Express. Jose Espinosa recently took over Tamargos former role as president and CEO of 407 ETR. Headshot of a man in a suit. Gonzalez will lead all business development efforts, identifying strategic opportunities and partnerships to expand the company's portfolio in the U.S. and globally. Gonzalez joined the company in 2004 and has held several leadership positions in business development and asset management, most recently serving as U.S. CEO. He brings more than 20 years of infrastructure development experience to the role. Headshot of a man in a suit. In his new role as director of strategy, Bosch will lead the implementation of a strategic roadmap related to new asset classes, partnerships and inorganic opportunities, according to the release. Bosch has more than 25 years of international experience in public-private partnerships, specializing in structuring and negotiating infrastructure project financing. For the past 12 years, he has served as Cintra's North America head of business development. Ferrovial operates in more than 15 countries and has a workforce of over 25,000 worldwide, according to the company. Urbanization and population growth are driving the need for transportation projects, making infrastructure an attractive sector for investors, Silvia Ruiz, global head of investor relations for Ferrovial, told Construction Dive. WSU professor receives national civic engagement award July 29, 2025 OGDEN, Utah A Weber State University political science professor has received national recognition for her leadership in civic education. Leah Murray, a Brady Presidential Distinguished Professor and director of WSUs Olene S. Walker Institute of Politics & Public Service, was awarded the Barbara Burch Award from the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. This award is given to faculty whove demonstrated exemplary contributions to students civic learning and engagement. Its presented annually by AASCUs American Democracy Project an initiative focused on higher educations role in preparing the next generation of informed and engaged citizens. Many people in America talk about our country as though its a final product, Murray said. But as founding father Ben Franklin taught us, its a republic if we can keep it. Civic engagement is the way we keep this republic. Im passionate about this work, always, because America is a work in progress. Murray is not only a familiar face on campus, but also a respected voice throughout Utah. Shes frequently called on as a local expert for news segments or community events, speaking on topics ranging from elections to policy updates. Dr. Murrays work profoundly impacts students, campus, and communities, said Julie Rich, College of Social Sciences & Education dean. She empowers our students to become informed, engaged citizens through innovative teaching and civic leadership. Throughout her career, Murray has helped thousands of students learn about democracy. She led efforts to increase student voter engagement on campus, places WSU students in valuable internships, and coordinates year-round programming to encourage active citizenship. Murray was presented her award during the 2025 American Democracy Project Summit in Indianapolis earlier this month. AASCUs American Democracy Project campuses continue to lead with creativity, commitment, and care as they champion civic engagement in innovative ways, said Charles L. Welch, president of AASCU. These awards recognize the impact of the awardees work and the power of collaboration in cultivating civic-minded students. Were proud to celebrate their leadership and dedication to building a thriving democracy." US home decor retail chain The Brand House Collective, formerly known as Kirkland's, will open its first Bed Bath & Beyond Home store in Nashville, Tennessee, on 8 August 2025. This marks the company's inaugural launch under its new identity following shareholder approval on 24 July 2025. This June, the company disclosed strategic adjustments to its operations and management. The overhaul includes a shift to become a multi-brand retail operator, streamlining its physical footprint, and enhancing core business processes to foster growth. The strategy involves consolidating properties and closing underperforming stores to reduce excess inventory, aiming for faster stock turnover and improved asset returns. Furthermore, the company plans to operate 290 stores, housing brands such as Kirkland's Home, Bed Bath & Beyond Home, and Overstock. The company said: "To celebrate our grand opening on 8 August, in honouring our brand's history, we're bringing back the beloved Bed Bath & Beyond coupon." The retailer has invited customers to redeem their legacy coupons or receive a new one at the store, with the first 25 purchasers receiving a free memory foam mattress. From today (29 July), The Brand House Collective will trade under the new ticker symbol 'TBHC', with no action required from shareholders concerning the change. Earlier in the month, the company revealed a series of executive appointments as part of its transformation into The Brand House Collective. Specifically, Andrea Courtois took on the role of senior vice-president and chief financial officer, succeeding Mike Madden. "First Bed Bath & Beyond Home store in Nashville to open this August" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand. If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit The Admiral Brown Society attended the 63rd Commissioning Ceremony at the Cork Naval Base on Friday, July 18, where it continued the tradition of presenting the Admiral Brown Medal to the newly commissioned cadets, celebrating the enduring influence of Foxford-born Admiral William Brown on modern maritime traditions. Ms Margaret Reilly and Mr Alan Lonergan had the honour of presenting the medals, including to a pair of cadets from Co Sligo, Mr Oisin Anderson and Mr Martin McHale. Admiral William Brown, known as the founding father of the Argentine Navy, was born in Foxford in 1777. His remarkable seafaring career and valour have made him a legendary figure not only in Ireland but across the Atlantic in Argentina and beyond. The Admiral Brown Society, founded to commemorate and promote his legacy, serves as a bridge connecting local heritage with international maritime history. Each year, the Society participates in commemorative events and educational initiatives, nurturing the legacy of Admiral Brown for new generations. The invitation to attend the Commissioning Ceremony in Cork is both a recognition of this unceasing dedication and a celebration of the Societys role in fostering maritime understanding. The ceremony at the Naval Base in Cork stands as one of the most prestigious events in the Irish Naval Service calendar. It marks the formal induction of new officers and sailors who have completed their rigorous training and are ready to serve Irelands maritime interests at home and abroad. The story of Admiral William Brown is an extraordinary reminder of the power of one individual to shape history, said the societys chairperson Margaret Reilly. Our presence at the 63rd Commissioning Ceremony is both a tribute to Admiral Browns enduring legacy and a statement of Mayos ongoing commitment to Irelands maritime future. A local councillor has called for greater engagement with elected representatives and other stakeholders on a south Mayo Safe Routes to School scheme (SRTS). The proposed Active Travel Scheme for Cong National School was presented to councillors in the Claremorris Municipal District at a meeting last week. The scheme proposed the introduction of a periodic 30km/hr speed limit in the school zone, an increase in footpath width and a narrowing of the road width, junction tightening onto the R345, the introduction of park & stride areas about 300m from the school, pencil bollards to prevent parking at the front of the school, raised crossings, warning signs demarcating the periodic speed limit and the school zone, a dedicated bus set down area and disabled parking. A map of Cong with the study area for the Safe Routes to School scheme (SRTS) highlighted Design Engineer with Tobin Consultants Jessica Lima explained these proposed changes would address road safety challenges in this area such as high traffic speeds, a lack of safe pedestrian infrastructure and dangerous and illegal parking at school drop off times. Ms Lima said they aim to begin construction late this year with completion and handover by summer 2026. The project is currently at the preliminary design phase. Cllr Ryan said any investment in the village that does not compromise local residents in any way is welcome but said greater engagement with public representatives was needed and this was the first time he had laid eyes on the plans for the scheme. This is the first consultation with me as a public representative on this. Engagement with public representatives needs to be improved as we will be the first people contacted if there are any issues when this goes out for public consultation, he said. I want to see the local Garda included in this consultation as well and a meeting on-site might be the most appropriate now while the school is still on holiday. Cllr Ryan added the concept of park & strides was a strong proposal in principle but said it may be difficult to implement, particularly during poor periods of weather. Design engineer Ramu Gajula said they are working with the school to promote driving behaviour changes among parents. The school is behind this and understand they need to encourage people to change their behaviour, he said. Director of Roads with Mayo County Council Tom Gilligan said encouraging behaviour change will take a lot of work to be successful but people need to be willing to engage with it to have a successful SRTS scheme. I think of my grandmother telling me how she walked to school in bare feet." "Years ago, people walked everywhere regardless of the weather and there may be to an element of pain for people in this." This story was originally published on Payments Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Payments Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: Investors sued the payments processing giant Fiserv in federal court, alleging it forced merchants to migrate to Clover, its small business-focused point-of-sale service, and lied to investors about slowing growth of Clover sales as merchants rebelled against its cost. Moving businesses from an older system onto Clover concealed a slowdown in new merchant business for the point-of-sale system, according to the lawsuit filed Thursday by the City of Hollywood Police Officers Retirement System. The Milwaukee-based payment processor disputes the allegations, a spokesperson said in an emailed statement Monday. Fiserv disagrees with the claims and will vigorously defend itself in the lawsuit, the statement said. Dive Insight: This case is about how Fiserv misled investors by artificially inflating its growth numbers through compelled migration of legacy customers using Payeezy, the company's older point of sale platform, to Clover, its expensive and feature-heavy POS platform, said the complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for Southern New York. The lawsuit seeks class action status, offering to represent anyone who bought or owned Fiserv stock between July 24, 2024 and July 22, 2025. Fiserv in the past has identified the Clover unit as a key driver of future growth. The company began phasing out Payeezy in 2023 and forcibly migrated as many as 200,000 merchants that had been using the older system to Clover beginning in late 2023 and continuing through the first half of 2024, the complaint says. Fiserv executives then made misleading statements on the growth of Clover, the lawsuit alleges. For example, last summer then Fiserv CEO Frank Bisigiano told investors that Clovers growth was fueled by new merchants signing up for the platform, according to the complaint. Company executives also did not disclose that merchants were leaving Clover for POS competitors, such as Blocks Square and Toast, the complaint says. Fiserv reported lower-than-expected earnings growth for the second quarter. Company executives, including CEO Mike Lyons, attributed the slowdown to delayed initiatives and economic uncertainty. The company's stock tumbled on the news that the processor fell short of analyst expectations. Along with Fiserv, company officials Bisignano, Lyons, and Chief Financial Officer Bob Hau are named as defendants in the lawsuit. Childrens cancer charity, Cancer Fund for Children, is to proceed with construction of Daisy Lodge, its purpose-built therapeutic short break centre for children diagnosed with cancer and their families, in August. Following a public procurement process, the construction contract has been awarded to Connolly and Fee Ltd, with the build expected to take approximately eighteen months to complete. This new 30,000 square ft therapeutic centre to be built on the shores of Lough Corrib in Cong, will offer families across Ireland, impacted by childhood cancer, a safe and restorative space to spend quality time together and reconnect. Families will benefit from expert therapeutic support delivered by the charitys dedicated team of Cancer Support Specialists, enjoy complementary therapies and nutritious meals, take part in family activities, and connect with others going through similar experiences. The total cost to build and equip Daisy Lodge is 20 million. In June 2023, the Department of Health pledged 5 million in capital funding for the project, along with 2.5 million from the Shared Island Fund. Thanks to the generosity of communities, businesses, funders, and donors across Ireland and beyond, the charity is now within reach of its target. Fundraising continues to ensure that families can begin accessing much-needed short breaks as soon as Daisy Lodge opens its doors in early 2027. Children diagnosed with cancer will be referred for short breaks at Daisy Lodge by Cancer Fund for Childrens team of Cancer Support Specialists, who provide support to families both in the community and in hospital settings across the island of Ireland. The charitys existing centre in County Down currently supports up to 1,800 family members each year. The addition of a second Daisy Lodge will double this capacity, enabling up to 4,000 family members annually to benefit from this vital service. For our team, this is much more than a construction project; the purpose holds personal weight for many of us, and it is a privilege to be a part of something that will deliver immeasurable benefits to families navigating cancer, said Shane Connolly, director of Connolly & Fee Ltd. We are looking forward to working in tandem with Cancer Fund for Childrens team, the local Cong community, and wider stakeholders. We hope that we can actively engage local supply chain partners and construction personnel in the delivery of this project, he added. In preparation for construction beginning in 2025, site clearance was completed last year under the supervision of both an archaeologist and an ecologist. A sub-base has been laid for a new access road, car park, building footprint and outdoor play area. Once open, Daisy Lodge will create new full-time and part-time roles across hospitality, housekeeping, facilities management, administration, and therapeutic support. Cancer Fund for Children will continue to engage with the local community to foster shared opportunities, encourage volunteering, and raise awareness of the needs of families affected by childhood cancer. Today marks a truly groundbreaking moment for Cancer Fund for Children, as construction begins on our much-needed second therapeutic short break centre for families affected by childhood cancer, said Phil Alexander, CEO of Cancer Fund for Children. This milestone would not have been possible without the incredible support of our stakeholders including the Department of Health, HSE, the Shared Island Fund, the local community, funders and our generous donors. Together, we are creating a special place for families impacted by childhood cancer, he concluded. FMC Corporation (NYSE:FMC), a cheaply priced stock popular among hedge funds and offering upside potential, is included in our list of the 10 Cheap Lithium Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds. FMC Corporation (FMC) Declares Quarterly Dividend; KeyBanc Raises PT Ahead of Upcoming Q2 Results A person inspecting a lithium-ion battery that is being recycled. On July 14, 2025, KeyBanc increased its price target on FMC Corporation (NYSE:FMC) from $53 to $61, maintaining an Overweight rating. For a stock that is trading at $43.21 as of the time of writing, representing a 41.17% upside, per the analyst. The analyst signals growing optimism around the companys growth potential. Meanwhile, two days later, FMC Corporation (NYSE:FMC)s board declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.58 per share, payable on October 16, 2025. Amid the volatile market environment, this points to the companys commitment to shareholder returns and operational resilience. With decades of experience in developing and producing lithium amides, lithium alkoxides, lithium metal hydrides, alkyllithiums, and aryllithiums, FMC Corporation (NYSE:FMC) has enabled the production of agricultural and pharmaceutical intermediates. It is included in our list of cheap lithium stocks. FMC Corporation (NYSE:FMC), a global agricultural sciences company, offers sustainable crop protection and precision agriculture solutions. It is included in our list of cheap lithium stocks. While we acknowledge the potential of FMC as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 11 Most Undervalued Cloud Stocks Under $10 According to Hedge Funds and 11 Best Mineral Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds. Disclosure: None. Allentown, PA (18103) Today Partly to mostly sunny with a late September feel; dry and pleasant. . Tonight A mostly clear sky; another cool, crisp, and comfy night. Middle Eastern food delivery startup Calo said Tuesday it has raised $39 million in a Series B extension that was led by Aljazira Capital. The fundraise, which was more than 1.5x of its original $25 million raise in December, also saw participation from existing backers such as Nuwa Capital, STV, Khwarizmi Ventures, and Al Faisaliah Group. The company is using this funding to expand into territories like the U.K. and to explore different partnerships in physical space. Calo primarily offers ready-to-eat meals that customers can heat up later. The company delivers different plans to cater to various health goals. The companys founder, Ahmed Al Rawi, told TechCrunch the startups revenue grew by close to 100%. Calo delivered more than 10 million meals last year in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain. While Al Rawi didnt provide a number for this year, he said the deliveries were growing in step with revenue. Those numbers, along with its brand, technology, and operational excellence, convinced Aljazira Capital to invest in the Saudi company. Calo represents a compelling opportunity at the intersection of healthtech, foodtech, and consumer subscription models, Rawan AlRasheed, director of venture capital at Aljazira Capital, told TechCrunch in a statement. The startup is also making moves to expand in the U.K., where last year it acquired two meal delivery services, Fresh Fitness Food and Detox Kitchen. While Fresh Fitness Food didnt raise any money, Detox Kitchen had raised just over $3.4 million via a mix of venture-backed and equity crowdfunding rounds, according to Crunchbase data. We spoke to over 50 meal subscription businesses worldwide, ranging from the U.S. to Asia, in 2023-24 to learn about what is an exciting market for us to expand to. We realized the UK was the right market for us to expand. We thought that both companies that we acquired had a great culture fit to work with Calo, Al Rawi told TechCrunch over a call. He added that Calo acquired these businesses because they had their operational layer figured out, and the startup just wanted to upscale the tech and branding layer. Al Rawi said Calo spent most of this year integrating its technology and process with both U.K. platforms without laying off any of the existing personnel. The startup finished the integration work in July and has been slowly making a marketing push in the U.K. Calo can currently deliver meals in London daily and in other parts of the U.K. two to three times a week. The founder said that Calo is targeting to get to 10x its revenue in the U.K. in the next three years. By Laman Ismayilova A round table on the topic "Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Literary and Cultural Ties" has taken place at Mahmud Kashgari International Foundation. The event was opened by PhD in History Latifa Mammadova, who stated that the scientific and cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan have an ancient history and great traditions. Latifa Mammadova spoke about the importance of mutual cooperation aimed at further developing these relations and ensuring joint research between the scientific institutions of both countries, as well as the efforts made in this direction by the Mahmud Kashgari International Foundation. The President of the Mahmud Kashgari International Foundation, member of the Azerbaijani Parliament Javanshir Feyziyev, emphasized in his speech that the ideology of Turkism, which is becoming a leading direction in the foreign policy of all Turkic states, is gaining the status of state policy. He pointed out that the program of today's scientific discussion and the list of articles presented in the published collection of scientific studies clearly show that the idea of a common Turkic unity is approached with deep affection within the scientific and literary circles of all Turkic countries, and numerous scholars are striving to contribute to this cause. Javanshir Feyziyev expressed confidence that these relations, founded on science, literature, and culture, will further strengthen the unity and solidarity among Turkic states. The Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Azerbaijan, Bahrom Ashrafkhanov, stated that the common cultural heritage and shared history that unite Turkic-speaking peoples always have a positive influence on the relations between their states. He noted that just as in Uzbekistan, the fraternal and friendly Azerbaijan also maintains very successful cultural, scientific, and literary cooperation with other Turkic states with which it shares the same roots and common national and spiritual values, and that these ties continue to grow every day. Deputy Chairman of the Uzbekistan Writers' Union Gayrat Majid, Professor of the Nizami Ganjavi Uzbek State Pedagogical University Dilarom Adilova, Professor of Alisher Navoi Tashkent State University Gulbahor Ashurova, and writer-playwright Goshgar Narkabil expressed their deep respect for the leadership of the Kashgari Foundation, which facilitates mutual scientific exchanges. They extended their gratitude for the hospitality, sincere and heartfelt attitude, and the attention shown during the event. Turns out, a $17-an-hour paycheck doesn't go as far as it used toespecially if you're young, exhausted, and juggling two jobs just to survive. Ford (NYSE:F) CEO Jim Farley heard this loud and clear from his own factory floors. And instead of shrugging it off or blaming "kids these days," he made a move that echoed the bold playbook of Henry Ford himselfone that he says America desperately needs more of. In a June interview at the Aspen Ideas Festival with Walter Isaacsonthe renowned biographer best known for his books on Steve Jobs, Leonardo da Vinci, and Elon MuskFarley peeled back the curtain on what younger workers were really telling him about life on a $17 wage. Don't Miss: "The older workers who'd been at the company said, None of the young people want to work here. Jim, you pay $17 an hour, and they are so stressed,'" Farley recalled. "They've got to work at Amazon for eight hours, then they come over to Ford for seven hours, and then they sleep for three or four hoursand then they go back. And they're barely getting by." Rather than issue a tone-deaf memo or wait for another generation to settle for less, Farley made a decisive, expensive change: he converted every temporary worker into a full-time employee. "It wasn't easy to do," he admitted. "It was expensive. But I think that's the kind of changes we need to make in our country." Farley's move isn't just about better paychecksit's about reviving an old-school idea that once turned Ford into a powerhouse: when you pay workers well, they can afford the products they help build. Trending: Scrolling To UBI' Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. You can invest today for just $0.30/share. Quoting the legendary Henry Ford, Farley said, "I'm doing this because I want my factory worker to buy my cars. If they make enough money, they'll buy my own product.'" Then he added, "It's a self-fulfilling prophecy, in a way." In 1914, Henry Ford famously raised factory wages to $5 a daynearly double the going rate. It wasn't a random act of generosity. It was a smart bet that higher wages would lead to a more stable, productive workforce andbonusmore people who could afford to drive off in a Model T. According to Farley, it worked then, and it can work now. A lending company in Georgia that marketed itself toward Republicans and faith-based groups has abruptly closed its doors. Don't miss Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 6 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) You dont have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 heres how The state has opened an investigation, the federal government has filed charges, and a recent report says investors are worried they wont see their money again. According to WSB-TV, founders Brant Frost IV and Brant Frost V promoted the company as being part of the patriot economy and targeted investors on conservative media. They also shared videos on their YouTube channel. First Liberty Building and Loan posted a notice on its website recently that said it has ceased all business operations, and that interest payments on existing promissory notes, bridge loan participation interests, and other investment programs are indefinitely suspended. The company said it is cooperating with federal authorities as part of an effort to accomplish an orderly wind up of the business. Charges filed by the SEC The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed charges against Edwin Brant Frost IV on July 10, accusing him of running a Ponzi scheme that cost approximately 300 investors at least $140 million. The SEC said that First Liberty offered returns of up to 18%. The complaint also alleges that, while some investor funds were used to make bridge loans, those loans did not perform as represented, and most loans ultimately defaulted and ceased making interest payments, says the press release. Frost is also accused of misappropriating investor funds for personal use, including $2.4 million in credit card payments, $335,000 to a rare coin dealer, and $230,000 on family vacations. The promise of a high rate of return on an investment is a red flag that should make all potential investors think twice or maybe even three times before investing their money, said Justin C. Jeffries, associate director of enforcement for the SECs Atlanta Regional Office. Unfortunately, weve seen this movie before bad actors luring investors with promises of seemingly over-generous returns and it does not end well. Banks and credit unions are subject to regulations that protect Americans, but First Liberty was a lending firm, not a bank. With the possible exception of apple pie, nothing says American food quite like a hamburger. What you need to know about derechos, an uncommon and destructive weather event Photo via U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Google is developing tools to keep its data straight. The tech giant has applied to patent a system for managing artificial intelligence and machine learning datasets in cloud storage that properly organizes datasets for AI training. READ ALSO: Microsoft Patent Highlights Weaknesses in Code Generators and Threat Actors Are Poisoning the Well of AI Training Data Googles patent essentially tackles data hygiene, or the concept of arranging data efficiently to avoid wasted storage space, security concerns and access-control problems. Copying data to a separate storage for each training iteration can cause increased latency, and redundant data duplication, Google said in the filing. It also increases privacy issues, which is especially troublesome when the dataset contains sensitive, personally identifiable information. Googles remedy relies on bookmarks, or references linking to different pieces of data. Instead of copy and pasting data from one place to another, which can create a bunch of messy duplicates, the bookmarks create virtual groupings that reference the data used in training. The bookmarking system allows datasets to be grouped, shared and managed for machine learning training without putting the underlying data itself at risk. Cloud computing and AI are massive parts of Googles business: In the most recent quarter, the company brought in $13 billion in cloud revenue, up 32% from the previous years quarter, beating Wall Streets expectations. And earlier this month, OpenAI announced a partnership to use Google Cloud to host ChatGPT. With the growing reliance on cloud platforms to build and develop AI, finding ways to properly manage the flow of data is critical. As Google continues to fight for cloud relevance with other hyperscalers like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, patents like this could help instill trust. This post first appeared on The Daily Upside. To receive cutting-edge insights into technology trends impacting CIOs and IT leaders, subscribe to our free CIO Upside newsletter. On July 9, Segula Technologies GmbH, based in Russelsheim, Germany, filed for insolvency in self-administration with the Darmstadt Local Court. This means that a further 500 jobs for engineers, technicians and developers are at risk. Segula only came to Russelsheim eight years ago, when Opel was taken over by the French PSA Group. The French engineering service provider took over both the Opel development center in Russelsheim and the traditional test site in Rodgau-Dudenhofen. Two years later, when the merger between PSA and Fiat-Chrysler created the third-largest global group Stellantis, Segula, with the support of IG Metall, promised to permanently secure 2,000 jobs, but this never materialized: At most, just under 900 people were employed at Segula before it rushed to downsize again. Online real estate advertisement for the Segula building in Russelsheim In the meantime, Segula has already transferred 200 of its 500 employees to the consulting sector, as those affected have reported to the WSWS. The remaining 300 engineers and technicians are to be made redundant. The six-storey building in Russelsheim is apparently already empty and is being offered for rent on the internet by real estate agent Colliers. The workshops are likewise half empty. The owner of the buildings and the test site in Dudenhofen is still Opelwerke, which has belonged to Stellantis since the takeover by PSA. Stellantis is also Segula's primary customer. However, the Stellantis Group is in the process of relocating its testing activities from Germany to the plant in Balocco, Italy, which belongs to Fiat and therefore also to Stellantis. At the Russelsheim ITEZ, the International Technical Development Center, the Opel Group has long employed around 7,000 highly qualified engineers, technicians, developers and car pilots in modern testing and development facilities. The Opel test site in Rodgau-Dudenhofen, just south of Frankfurt, in particular, which has been in operation since the 1960s, is a centerpiece of automotive development alongside Unterturkheim (Mercedes) and Weissach (Porsche). In addition to modern testing facilities, it also includes more than 60 km of racing and test tracks and an almost 5 km long high-speed circuit, which is equipped with lighting for nighttime testing. The Segula insolvency is just the tip of the iceberg. Over 9,000 jobs have been cut at Opel alone in the last eight years: Of over 19,000 employees (2017), just under 10,000 remain today. (Half a century ago, there were more than 40,000 in West Germany alone). At the headquarters in Russelsheim, including production, development and administration, there remain no more than 8,000 employees. In recent years, the forge (around 200 employees, discontinued in 2021), toolmaking (over 200 employees, discontinued in 2021), CAD technology (100 employees, discontinued in 2024) and the transmission plant (200 employees, discontinued in 2021) have been shut down. In production, the longstanding two-shift operation was reduced to a single shift in December 2024, and around 40 percent of employees are temporary workers who can be laid off at any time. Around 1,000 workers are still employed at the Kaiserslautern engine plant, and around 1,100 workers are still building the Grandland SUV at the Eisenach plant in the German state of Thuringia; ten years ago, 1,850 workers were employed in Eisenach. For years now the Stellantis Group has been attacking jobs and social benefits at its plants. When the group was founded in 2021, then-CEO Carlos Tavares, one of the highest-paid managers in the world, promised that the restructuring would take place without plant closures and without compulsory redundancies. He was supported in this by the respective trade union leaders, in Germany by the head of the works council Wolfgang Schafer-Klug. Since then, however, almost 100,000 of 281,000 jobs have been cut. The global corporation currently states that it will have 189,512 employees in 2025, while the so-called value added, the turnover per employee, has increased overall despite a current net loss: From 530,000 euro in 2021, turnover per employee has increased to an expected 740,000 euro (2025). The Segula insolvency is also the tip of the iceberg for the entire German automotive and supplier industry. Automotive service providers such as Bosch and ZF have announced massive job cuts, and groups such as VW and Mercedes are cutting jobs. Daimler Truckjust one of the more glaring examplesplans to cut 5,000 jobs in the sites in Worth and Gaggenau, which will also affect hundreds of jobs on the French side of the border. Just since the beginning of 2025 the employers' association Gesamtmetall has recorded a reduction of 60,000 jobs in the metal and electrical industries. And as is usual in the entire automotive and metal industry, the so-called employee representatives from the IG Metall union are indispensable when it comes to job cuts. They have helped to draw up and then signed the redundancy plans practically everywhere they represent workers, often before even informing the workforce, and see their most important task as preventing any expression of resistance from workers during implementation. The Segula insolvency again throws a spotlight onto role the unions play in this. At Segula, the union stands among those most responsible for today's misery. During the takeover by the PSA Group eight years ago, the works council and IG Metall agreed to a three-stage process to cut 2,000 jobs at the development center and bring in Segula. Employees were put under pressure to either take the redundancy payments or switch to Segula. Today, Segula's insolvency in self-administration is not, as officially claimed, intended to assure an orderly and secure restructuring process. The company has no intention of continuing to operate the two sites in Russelsheim and Rodgau-Dudenhofen. The insolvency serves to circumvent its legal and collective bargaining obligations and to avoid the six-month notice period and severance payments for long-serving employees. It also puts an end to the policy of bridging periods of low orders with reduced work hours. All the promises made by works councils and IG Metall officials that any job cuts would be socially responsible are bursting like soap bubbles. Even the current policy of socially responsible job cuts means that temporary workers who have no protection against dismissal are always fired first, and then older employees are forced out of the company through severance payments and early retirement schemes. This inevitably leads to poverty in old age as a result of lower pensions. At the same time, more and more jobs that are subject to social security contributions and are reasonably well paid are being destroyed and thus made inaccessible for the younger generations. As the example of Segula shows, today even these downsizing models have been exhausted. More and more employees understand that it is now all or nothing and that they only stand a chance if they see themselves to be part of the working class and take up the fight independent of IG Metall. They are confronted not only with shareholders and managers, but also with a trade union bureaucracy that is paid handsomely for its services in suppressing the class struggle. In politics, they are confronted with the government of Chancellor Friedrich Merz, which has embarked on a course of rearmament and war in Germany and that supports the horrific genocide in Gaza. The Social Democratic Party (SPD) is a prominent part of this government, and IG Metall, closely linked to the SPD, fully supports this war course. The International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees therefore calls on autoworkers to join forces in the struggle for wages and jobs worldwide and to combine this with the fight against war. In globalized production, their allies are not the trade union leaders and national management, but their colleagues all over the world! In reality, affected workers at Segula are already part of a global pool of colleagues in the automotive branch. Segula itself is the German subsidiary of the French technology group based in Nanterre, which operates a total of 140 branches in more than 30 countries worldwide with 15,000 employees (around 1,000 at eight locations in Germany). The Stellantis Group employs almost 200,000 people worldwide, and more than 400,000 including temporary workers and suppliers. Stellantis owns the plants of Chrysler, Fiat, Peugeot, Citroen, DS, Opel, Vauxhall, Alfa Romeo, Dodge, Jeep, Lancia, Maserati and Abarth. While shareholders, top managers and trade union bureaucrats ensure that the costs of tariffs and restructuring such as e-mobility and AI are passed on to employees, workers themselves are constantly being put under further pressure. Ruthless methods are enforced in the factories, leading to dangerous situations in the workplace. This is exemplified by the death of Stellantis worker Ronald Adams Sr. The 63-year-old machine mechanic was killed on April 7 at the Dundee, Michigan engine plant when an overhead crane suddenly activated and crushed him against a conveyor belt. This was the second fatal accident at Stellantis (USA) in seven months. The International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees has therefore launched an independent investigation into Adams death. Rank-and-File Committees are founded on the clear principle that the rights of workers to jobs, health and a decent standard of living must take precedence over the profits of managers and shareholders. We call on all employees of Segula, Stellantis and the entire automotive and supplier industry: Support the establishment of independent Rank-and-File Committees! Fill out the form below and take part in building Rank-and-File Committees so that workers and employees can take control of safety and production themselves! Your data will be treated confidentially and is protected. Thousands protested in cities across Ukraine last week following the passage of a law placing the countrys National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) under direct control of the right-wing regime of President Volodymyr Zelensky. Demonstrators hold sign during a protest against a law that targets anti-corruption institutions in Lviv, Ukraine, Thursday, July 24, 2025. [AP Photo/Mykola Tys] The protests were the largest to take place in Ukraine since the beginning of the NATO-backed proxy war with Russia that began in February 2022 and defied the countrys ongoing martial law status. In contrast to earlier and smaller protests by relatives of soldiers demanding that their husbands, brothers and sons be allowed to return from the front, these protests were widely covered in the pro-imperialist media, which made no reference to the immense human toll of the war. Protesters carried posters with slogans such as Corruption kills, Ukraine is not Russia and My father is not fighting for this. The protests were dominated by layers of the middle and upper-middle classes, which have largely been shielded from the brutality of the war, either through education deferments or bribing themselves out of forced conscription. In 2014, these layers, the prop of Ukraines so-called civil society, combined with the violent intervention of the countrys far-right paramilitary groups such as the Azov Battalion and Right Sector, were mobilized for the overthrow of elected President Viktor Yanukovych in the Western-backed coup. In recent years, they have been an important prop of the Zelensky regime. Several commentators have already likened the protests to the 2014 Maidan protests with Holocaust scholar Marta Havryshko raising the question Will Zelensky become his own Maidan? in the German Berliner Zeitung. The agency over which the conflict developed, NABU, was set up in the wake of that coup, which triggered an eight-year-long civil war in East Ukraine, leading up to Russias invasion in February 2022. Founded in 2015 by the right-wing nationalist government of Petro Poroshenko, NABU is almost entirely created and directed by the US. Its staff is trained directly by the FBI and European Union. In 2020, the former Prosecutor General of Ukraine, Viktor Shokin, complained that NABU was created by order of then US Vice President Joe Biden in order to undermine Ukraines own State Bureau of Investigation and put there emissaries who listen to the United States. Throughout its existence, NABU has played a key role in the ongoing conflicts within the Ukrainian oligarchy and state apparatus. In March of 2023, Zelensky appointed Semen Kryvonos as the head of NABU, with much fanfare and claims that Zelensky and the Ukrainian government were finally getting tough on corruption, as demanded by the EU and US. Kryvonos reportedly has close ties to Zelenskys chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, one of the most influential figures in contemporary Ukrainian politics. Zelensky, under conditions in which his regime is in serious crisis despite its recent reconciliation with the Trump administration, had now clearly tried to establish complete control of the agency to remove any potential political adversaries such as Poroshenko. According to Zelensky, stripping the agency of its independence was necessary to combat Russian influence. A day prior, Ukraines security services (SBU) had carried out raids of the agency to supposedly arrest Russian spies. But the naked power grab was a step too far for Ukraines European backers, who regularly employ anti-corruption campaigns as a means of directly intervening in Ukraines oligarchic politics. Following the laws passage on July 22, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul wrote on X that limiting the independence of anti-corruption agencies hampers Ukraines way towards the EU. According to EU spokesperson Guillaume Mercier, the EU directly intervened in the controversy, telling Politico, The president of the European Commission was in contact with President Zelenskyy about these latest developments. President von der Leyen conveyed her strong concerns about the consequences of the amendments, and she requested the Ukrainian government [provide] explanations. The respect for the rule of law and the fight against corruption are core elements of the European Union. As a candidate country, Ukraine is expected to uphold these standards fully. There cannot be a compromise, Mercier added. Following the domestic protests and foreign outcry, Zelensky appeared to backtrack, introducing a new bill last Thursday that he claims will restore NABUs independence. However, Zelensky failed to provide details on the text of the bill apart from calling it well-balanced. NABU itself stated that the new bill restored all procedural powers and guarantees of independence of the two agencies. Zelensky, a former comedian with no military background, is viewed with disdain by Ukraines far-right, who play an essential role in the Ukrainian state and especially in conducting the countrys ongoing war with Russia. Should Zelensky completely alienate the educated middle and upper-middle classes and his EU backers, it may well be the final nail in the coffin of a regime already in profound crisis. In a recent Substack post, veteran journalist Seymour Hersh reported that officials in Washington are actively planning to have ex-commander-in-chief Valery Zaluzhny installed to replace Zelensky. Zaluzhny has extensive ties to the countrys far-right and is an open admirer of Nazi collaborator Stepan Bandera. He has been the ambassador to the UK since his dismissal by Zelensky and, in that capacity, has openly attacked Zelenskys war strategy. In yet another indication that the imperialist powers are actively considering the removal of the Zelensky administration, the Financial Times, the principal mouthpiece of British finance capital, published a lengthy article on Zelenskys chief adviser Andriy Yermak last week. Yermak is widely considered something of a shadow president and has wielded immense influence in the Zelensky regime. Citing numerous former leading Ukrainian, US and EU officials, the article stressed that Yermak was centrally involved in the removal of Zaluzhny and the former foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba, as well as Zelenskys most recent government reshuffle. According to the Financial Times, Yermak has managed the unusual feat of irking US politicians on both sides of the aisle, according to current and former officials in Kyiv and Washington, a bipartisan achievement few can boast of and not the kind worth celebrating in Kyiv. The escalation of the conflict within the oligarchy and the protests come amidst an intense political crisis and growing social discontent. A recent poll showed that 70 percent of Ukrainians believe that their leaders use the war, which is estimated to have cost hundreds of thousands of lives already, to enrich themselves. Tens of thousands of Ukrainian citizens, such as the Trotskyist youth leader Bogdan Syrotiuk, have been imprisoned, thousands of Ukrainian men have been dragged to the front by press gangs and over 6.8 million people have fled the country, the majority of whom will never return. Under these conditions, last weeks protests may well portend a much broader movement by workers against the Zelensky regime and the war. However, given the bitter lessons of the 2014 Maidan coup and the transformation of Ukraine into an imperialist proxy for war against Russia, it is essential that workers and young people in Ukraine develop their opposition to the Zelensky regime and the war in complete independence from all factions of the oligarchy and the imperialist powers, based on the demand for unity with the working class in Russia, throughout Europe and the US. The Western Sydney University and Macquarie University Rank-and-File Committees have called an online public meeting this Saturday, August 2 to fight for a unified campaign by educators and students against the Albanese Labor governments intensifying cuts to international student enrolments and jobs, and the underlying pro-corporate, pro-military reshaping of tertiary education. Register here. Last Thursday, Western Sydney University (WSU) management unveiled a voluntary redundancy scheme as part of its plan to eliminate up to 400 academic and professional jobs, or more than 13 percent of the universitys full-time workforce. Not accidentally, the announcement came just one day after the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) revealed that it had made a similar proposal. Western Sydney University [Photo: eminentedu.com] NTEU branch president David Burchell informed its members at the university, via an email, that in backroom negotiations it had suggested a modest voluntary redundancy exercise to Vice-Chancellor George Williams to cut jobs in a decent and humane manner. This must be a warning of the wider readiness of the NTEU leaders to partner with university executives across the country. They are desperate to quash staff and student outrage over the current mass destruction of jobstotalling more than 3,000 nationally so far. This assault is being driven by the Albanese Labor governments reactionary cuts to international student enrolments and other measures, with a definite agenda: to transform tertiary education to satisfy the requirements of the corporate elite and the development of a war economy. The NTEU and the other main campus trade union, the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU), are covering up the Labor governments role. They are blaming individual vice-chancellors for the assault on jobs, even as they simultaneously seek to help them find ways to implement Labors agenda. The developments at WSU further expose the efforts of the NTEU and CPSU apparatuses to block any unified fight by staff and students against the job cut avalanche. Instead, they are trying to divert the anger of staff and students into isolated protests at individual universities. In announcing the WSU retrenchment scheme, Williams, himself a former Labor Party preselection candidate, avoided any mention of the Labor government. But he reported that WSU had 1,000 fewer international students this year than anticipated and had also suffered a 9 percent decline in revenue per domestic student because of the Job-Ready Graduates package. The Albanese government has retained that program, imposed by the previous Liberal-National Coalition government, which has hiked fees for humanities students to $17,000 a year, while slashing the funding to universities to deliver their courses. While avoiding naming the Labor government, Williams gave some indication of its agenda, which is bound up with preparations for war. He said WSU faced a fundamentally altered enrolment and funding landscape that was part of a broader sector-wide recalibration with tightened visa settings, shifting government policy and geopolitical insecurity. Led by Williams and Chancellor Jennifer Westacott, a former CEO of the Business Council of Australia, WSU management is seeking to meet Labors demands through a Reset Western program, driven by a Western 2030 Strategic Plan that aims to attract partnerships and investment to western Sydney from companies and governments. In this context, Williams readily accepted the NTEUs voluntary retrenchment proposal, while still insisting that more jobs would be eliminated if not enough staff members decided to resign. By offering targeted voluntary redundances, we aim to reduce the number of non-voluntary redundancies that could be required down the track, he said in an all-staff email. Williams also declared that not everyone who applies for a voluntary redundancy will receive one. Instead, the applicationsopen only to senior and long-standing staffwould be assessed on the basis of broader workforce planning needs, the future requirements of the University, and budgetary objectives. Positions would be retained if needed for Westerns future state design, strategic priorities or compliance obligations. In other words, the management will pick and choose the targeted jobs, in line with the pro-corporate and pro-government restructuring. The management also set a snap deadline of August 3 for staff members to submit redundancy applicationsindicating the speed with which it plans to proceed. In his July 23 email, the NTEUs Burchell claimed that the union has always been resolutely opposed to the VCs [vice chancellors] proposed program of mass job cuts. He tried to distance the union from the managements plan, saying it went beyond what the union had suggested. But Williams acceptance of the thrust of the unions proposal demonstrates the fraud of that pretence. Burchells email is no aberration. For decades, the NTEU and CPSU have collaborated with university managements to employ voluntary retrenchment packages as a means of pressuring staff members to quit and suppressing opposition to job cuts and restructuring. The unions have refused to oppose Labors punitive caps on international enrolments, which are making students the scapegoat for the worsening housing affordability and cost-of-living crisis affecting working-class households. Albaneses government has vowed to halve the number of international students, to 270,000 a year, from 548,000 in 2023. The government is financially pressuring universities into transforming themselves along the lines of the governments Universities Accord. This blueprint, issued last year, demands that Australias 39 public universities subordinate both their teaching and research to the needs of big business and the construction of war-related industries, such as the $368 billion AUKUS plan to acquire nuclear-powered attack submarines for use against China in a US-led war. The government also plans to tie university funding, from next year, to mission compacts, signed with a new government-appointed Australian Tertiary Education Commission, to deliver the required outcomes. As well as WSU, the confirmed job destruction list now includes Sydneys Macquarie University, Charles Sturt University, the Australian National University, University of Canberra, University Technology Sydney (UTS), and the universities of Wollongong, Tasmania, Charles Darwin, Federation, James Cook, Southern Queensland, Griffith, La Trobe and Swinburne. These cuts have especially targeted arts and humanities, as one means of stultifying critical and historically-informed thinking. This is part of a broader global transformation of universities. For example, the Starmer Labour government in the UK is presiding over the elimination of 5,000 university jobs, also driven by international student cuts. The Trump White House is threatening to defund universities that do not silence opposition to the US-Israeli Gaza genocide and align with Trumps fascistic and militarist agenda. The Albanese government also advised universities to comply with a Trump administration questionnaire threatening to cut off joint funding for research unless their projects served the needs of US foreign policy and military objectives. At least 11 universities have suffered research funding cuts as a result, which will mean deeper job losses. University workers want to fight the job cuts. At WSU, an online meeting of NTEU members on July 3 voted by 99 percent for stoppages of up to 24 hours and by 78 percent for indefinite strikes against the managements cost-cutting plans. But the NTEU officials kept this vote tied to seeking to negotiate another enterprise agreement deal with WSU management, which could take months, and opposed a call by WSU Rank-and-File Committee member Michael Head for a unified campaign across the universities. Both the NTEU and CPSU are silent on the fact that, while starving the universities of funds, the government is pouring billions of dollars into military spending, and backing the Gaza genocide, the criminal attacks on Iran and the US-NATO war against Russia in Ukraine. The Labor government, like the Trump administration, is also seeking to suppress opposition to the ethnic cleansing in Palestine. Education Minister Jason Clare personally instigated moves to freeze the research grant of Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah, a prominent critic of the Israeli war machine, at Macquarie University. As a joint WSU and Macquarie Rank-and-File Committee statement, issued on June 24, concluded: To fight this agenda, there has to be a unified struggle by staff and students across the country against the job cuts and restructuring. This requires the formation of rank-and-file committees of staff and students at all universities, completely independent of the trade union apparatuses. To discuss and develop this fight, we will host an online public meeting this Saturday, August 2 at 3 p.m., titled What is driving the university job cuts across Australia? Labors pro-corporate and war agenda. To join the meeting, please register here. To support this campaign, contact the Committee for Public Education (CFPE), the educators rank-and-file network. Contact the CFPE: Email: cfpe.aus@gmail.com Facebook: facebook.com/commforpubliceducation Twitter: CFPE_Australia A section of those attending the IWA-RFC meeting on the death of Ronald Adams, Sr., July 27, 2025 The WSWS will be posting further material and reports from the IWA-RFC hearing on the death of Ronald Adams Sr. throughout the week. To get involved in the investigation, fill out the form at the bottom of this page. On Sunday, July 27, approximately 100 workers and youth attended the first public hearing held by the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) as part of its investigation into the death of autoworker Ronald Adams Sr. The 63-year-old skilled trades veteran was killed on April 7 at the Stellantis Dundee Engine Complex when an overhead gantry crane suddenly activated and crushed him. The meeting was held at the Marygrove Campus in the Bagley neighborhood of Detroit, where Ronald Adams grew up and where his family still lives. Among the attendees were Adams widow, Shamenia Stewart-Adams, other family members, and workers from the Dundee plant who braved the threat of retaliation to attend. They were joined by autoworkers from other area plants, as well as postal workers, teachers, students, and neighborhood residents. The hearing was a powerful response by rank-and-file workers to the months-long silence from Stellantis, the United Auto Workers (UAW) and state safety officials. It concluded with the unanimous adoption of a resolution to continue and expand the investigation, support other victims of workplace hazards, and build rank-and-file committees to enforce safe working conditions as part of an international campaign to end the sacrifice of workers lives for profit. Lawrence Porter speaking at the IWA-RFC investigation into the death of Ronald Adams, Sr., July 27, 2025 Lawrence Porter, a leader of the Socialist Equality Party and former autoworker, chaired the meeting. He denounced the capitalist system for treating the annual deaths of 140,000 US workers from traumatic injuries and occupational diseases as a mere cost of doing business. He compared the death of Ronald Adams to other preventable tragedies, including the killing of Antonio Gaston at the Toledo Assembly Complex and 19-year-old Brayan Canu Joj, killed in a meat grinder at a burrito factory in California. These deaths, Porter said, were casualties in a class war, affecting workers of all races, nationalities and genders. We are here to sound the call: Workers Lives Matter! he declared, to audience applause. Mack Trucks worker Will Lehman, a 2022 socialist candidate for UAW president and a leading member of the IWA-RFC, emphasized the broader significance of the hearing. This hearing is not just about examining the circumstances of one death, he said. Our aim is nothing less than to end the deadly conditions imposed on workers in factories and workplaces around the world. Will Lehman speaking at the IWA-RFC investigation into the death of Ronald Adams, Sr., July 27, 2025 Adams, Lehman said, was known as the protector of the plant, but no individual worker can guarantee safety under a system where profit is prioritized over human life. He cited deadly disasters throughout industrial historyfrom the Courrieres mine disaster in France, which killed 1,100 miners, and the Triangle Shirtwaist fire in 1911, to the 1993 toy factory fire in Thailand and the 2013 building collapse in Bangladesh that killed more than 1,100 garment workers. All, he emphasized, were the result of corporate profit being placed above human life. Lehman urged workers to reject feelings of powerlessness. We need to recognize that the danger of our inaction is greater than the danger of us acting in our best interests, he said. He called for the formation of safety committees with real authority in every plant as part of a broader fight for workers control over production. Shamenia Stewart-Adams and family members at the IWA-RFC investigation into the death of Ronald Adams, Sr., July 27, 2025 Shamenia Stewart-Adams received a standing ovation as she addressed the crowd, with family members standing behind her. I stand before you today not just as a grieving wife, but as a voice for every mother, every wife, every family who has watched their loved one walk out the door for work, trusting that they will return home safely, she said. She continued, I have received no answers from MIOSHA [the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration] or the UAW. Not a letter, not a call, not a single word explaining why or how this happened Our family deserves to know the truth, and we are demanding the truthnot just for myself and our children, but for every family who has suffered in silence. She implored Adams coworkers to come forward. I know some of you have been threatened But I am asking you with everything in me to find the courage to come forward, she said. Because what happened to my husband can happen again, to any one of you. An audio message followed from John, a Dundee worker who was injured on the job. He described the chaos that erupts during launch periods, when safety is out the window. Before his injury, he said, repeated complaints were ignored by both the union and management. Were just like slaves, he added. John spoke of Adams deep commitment to safety and his expertise as a trained aircraft mechanic. Not once did he say, We can bypass [a lockout]. I could never see Ronnie going into a cage knowing that its energized, he said. He urged support for the IWA-RFC investigation, stating, The union is in bed with management This has got to stop If we were in controlthe workerswed stop the line. WSWS reporter Jerry White delivered an extensive presentation on the IWA-RFCs findings, drawn from dozens of interviews with Dundee workers, family members and safety experts. He cited Adams autopsy reportobtained only through a Freedom of Information Act requestwhich revealed catastrophic injuries that White said were comparable to an airplane crash or combat explosion. Jerry White speaking at the IWA-RFC investigation into the death of Ronald Adams, Sr., July 27, 2025 White reported that a programmer from Fives Cinetic, who had worked directly with Adams on the washer-gantry system, said Adams knew the machine from the beginning. The programmer speculated that during maintenance, the gantry may have received a false signal indicating the washer was ready, triggering the fatal motion. Despite this critical insight, White noted, the programmer was never interviewed by Stellantis, the UAW, or MIOSHA. Multiple workers reported that lockout/tagout protections were routinely bypassed using cheater keys distributed by management. This plant constantly breaks its own safety policies to push parts, White quoted one worker as saying. After Adams death, management ordered the cheater keys returned, under threat of termination. White showed internal emails sent to the IWA-RFC by workers, demanding the cheater keys be returned. He quoted a former OSHA officer who told the IWA-RFC, It sounds like Dundee had virtually no functioning lockout/tagout system. Thats a willful violation, and if enough cheater keys were in circulation, it edges toward criminal negligence. Autoworker and IWA-RFC member Max spoke passionately about the psychological toll of unsafe working conditions. Ronnie did not die because of an accident, he said. He died because the system we live under values profit over people We need to enforce our own safety conditions on the shop floors in every plant. Ruth, a postal worker who travelled to the hearing from Pennsylvania, connected Adams death to the fatal conditions faced by workers in the USPS. We have lost four brothers due to heat-related injuriesthree this year alone, she said. The temps in the trucks reach 128 degrees. She added, We must be the voice for Ron Adams and every other worker We need a bigger voice for justice and truth. A powerful component of the event was the reading of greetings from workers around the world, including an audio recording from autoworkers in Mexico expressing their support for the inquiry and describing the similarly dangerous conditions they face. An estimated 2.9 million workers die each year from workplace injuries and illnessesnearly 8,000 every day. WSWS Chairman David North speaking at the IWA-RFC investigation into the death of Ronald Adams, Sr., July 27, 2025 David North, chairman of the WSWS International Editorial Board, spoke toward the end of the meeting and summed up the central issues raised. North described how workplace injuries and deaths are the necessary consequence of capitalism. The term accident is often used, but is that word adequate? If you walk across your room and you trip, that might be an accident. But when we are experiencing events that occur with staggering regularity these are no longer mere accidents in the conventional sense of the word. Were seeing the operation of necessity. This is the product of the system within which we live, not just in this country but in every part of the world. Our social life, our economic life, is organized in a way which produces, continuously, these disasters, and they will continue unless a way is found by putting an end to the system which produces these catastrophes. The only way this will happen, North said, is when the working class replaces the capitalist system with socialism and runs economic life based on human need, not private profit. Addressing the younger members of the Adams family, he concluded, Lets make sure that the world in which you grow up is a world in which such horrors never take place. When you grow older and speak about what happened to your grandfather, or your father, you will say thats what it was like in the old days, before the working class came forward, understood what was going on, changed the world and made it a world worth living in. Thats what were seeking to do. Attendees unanimously adopt a resolution at the IWA-RFC investigation into the death of Ronald Adams, Sr., July 27, 2025 The meeting concluded with Will Lehman introducing a resolution calling for the continuation of the investigation, the formation of rank-and-file committees and the launch of a global campaign to defend workers lives. A Dundee worker spoke in support, saying, Im willing to take a risk because this man is gone. I appreciate you doing this for my brother and his family. The resolution passed unanimously. Afterward, Ronald Adams son Chris said, We know how corrupt companies and governments can be, to cover things up. We need justice. Now we see that its not just our family, its many other families that this type of thing has happened to. This hearing and the movement can shed light on this, not just here but worldwide, and make this world a better place. Another family member added, You think that youre alone. To see all of the people that we saw today, now you can see others have a voice. In the early hours of Sunday, July 27, the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) announced a tentative agreement (TA) with Safeway, a subsidiary of Albertsons, aimed at blocking a strike by 25,000 grocery workers in UFCW Locals 5, 648 and 8-Golden State in Northern California. The strike, scheduled to begin the same day, would have marked the first regional walkout against Safeway in nearly 30 years. The previous contract expired April 12 after more than five months of fruitless negotiations that the union deliberately prolonged to prevent any genuine mobilization. Workers at Safeway, like their brothers and sisters at other chains, are demanding substantial wage increases, expanded healthcare coverage, secure scheduling and stronger job protections. They face soaring rents, food prices and utility costs in one of the most expensive regions of the country, while corporate profits hit record highs. (Safeways 2024 adjusted net income was $1.38 billion.) The UFCW spent five months meeting in secret with Safeway executives. When the deadline arrived, the UFCW announced a last-minute TA and canceled the strike. As always, the union presented the deal as a victory, claiming it includes meaningful wage increases, a fortified retirement plan, properly funded health care, strong job protections and fair scheduling. With no evidence. The union has refused to release any specific details on wages or any other contract language. The union says the full details will be released only after ratification. In other words, workers are being told to vote on a contract they are not allowed to see. Local 5 President John Frahm and Local 648 President Dan Larson issued statements praising the contract as a hard-earned and inspiring victory and attributing it to workers unity and community support. They claim this agreement reflects workers value and delivers real improvements. But if the deal truly reflected the needs of workers, details would be released immediately. Instead, votes are being scheduled in secret, with no access to the contract language, no rank-and-file discussion and no opportunity to organize opposition. This summer, more than 100,000 grocery story workers in the UFCW have or have had contracts expire around the US. But in each case, the UFCW bureaucracy has stepped in to isolate workers and force through deals that benefit the corporations. The announcement of the Northern California TA came just weeks after the UFCW rammed through a rotten deal in Southern California, covering 60,000 workers. There, the union staged a strike authorization vote, held token rallies and announced a TA with virtually no public disclosure of contract details. Most workers never saw the agreement before being rushed into a sham ratification vote. The same pattern played out in Colorado, where Safeway and King Soopers workers launched limited strikes earlier this year. In every case, the UFCWs priority was to isolate the struggles, shut down picket lines and impose deals favorable to the corporations. The UFCWs campaign of nationwide sellouts continues. Around 12,000 UFCW Local 135 workers at Stater Bros. stores in San Diego have voted to authorize a strike that the union is limiting to unfair labor practices (ULP). Yet the union has made clear it does not intend to call a strike. Instead, it is continuing closed-door talks with management scheduled for July 3031. Many Safeway workers are immigrants, now facing intensifying threats under the Trump administrations stepped-up deportation campaigns. In recent weeks, workers have reported incidents inside storesprovocations orchestrated by management to create fear and disrupt organizing. The UFCW has remained silent, refusing to defend its own members from harassment and intimidation. The first step forward is for workers to reject the tentative agreement outright. It was concocted in secrecy with Safeway management and continues to be kept hidden. The union is deliberately preventing meaningful discussion and railroading members into approving a deal they have not seen. Workers must demand the immediate release of the full contract and organize to vote it down. To prevent another betrayal, workers must take the process into their own hands. This requires building independent, democratically elected rank-and-file committees in every store and warehouse. These committees must exclude the UFCW bureaucrats and establish genuine control by the workers themselves over their struggle. But this is not just a fight over wages or scheduling. It is a political fight against an entire system built on war and the exploitation of labor for corporate profit. The corporations, the unions and both political parties are united in defending capitalism, which demands lower wages, mass layoffs and the destruction of basic rights. This struggle is part of a broader confrontation between the working class and the capitalist ruling elite. The Trump administration is imposing fascistic measuresdeportations, attacks on democratic rights and brutal social cutswhile Californias Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom has enacted a 202526 budget slashing vital social programs under austerity dictates. In this fight, the chief obstacle is the union bureaucracy. Earlier this month, union officials in AFSCME shut down an eight-day strike of Philadelphia city workers and imposed a sellout deal almost identical to the citys initial offer. That is why workers must break through the isolation and link up across industries and across the country. A nationwide counteroffensive is urgently needed. The planning and execution of a general strikeuniting grocery, sanitation, logistics, public sector and all sections of the working classis the necessary next step. It is the only way to place power in the hands of workers and win the demands that their lives and futures depend on. Palestinians inspect the site struck by an Israeli bombardment in Muwasi, Khan Younis, Gaza Strip, Monday, July 28, 2025 [AP Photo/Mariam Dagga] The series of lying statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that there is no starvation in Gaza has produced a powerful backlash by masses of people around the world who are horrified by the evidence that more than 100 Palestiniansthe majority childrenhave died from lack of food and nutrition. On Sunday, Netanyahu denied the starvation in Gaza while speaking at a Christian conference in Jerusalem. Speaking at an event hosted by Trump supporter and prominent evangelical pastor Paula White, Netanyahu declared: There is no starvation in Gazaand there is no policy of starvation in Gaza. We facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid throughout the duration of the conflict. If not, there would be no Gazans left. The sole entity obstructing the flow of humanitarian aid is Hamas. They are reversing the truth. After 20 months of mass death caused by continuous Israeli bombings, drone missile strikes and ground assaults, Netanyahu also falsely stated that Israel has provided humanitarian corridors and promoted airdrops of aid, and called reports of starvation a blatant falsehood. He even went so far as to assert that images being circulated around the world of Palestinian children starved to death are fake. Netanyahu said, a campaign distributing false pictures, creating an image of starvation which doesnt exist. His comments came on the heels of reports and viral images documenting skeletal children, desperate families and hospitals overwhelmed by malnutrition, which Israeli officials have tried to dismiss as fake, distributed by Hamas. These denials by the fascist Israeli prime minister are directly contradicted by Gaza health authorities and international agencies who track hunger deaths daily. As of Monday, Gazas Ministry of Health reports at least 147 Palestiniansincluding 88 childrenhave died from malnutrition and starvation since the beginning of the genocide in October 2023. Al Jazeera reported Monday that in the last 24 hours, 14 more people, including two children, perished from hunger and malnutrition. Health officials warn the true toll is likely far higher due to communication breakdowns and the isolating chaos imposed by ongoing strikes. Global organizations, including the World Health Organization, have described the growing mortality toll as mass starvation, with over 2 million still at risk as food supplies remain throttled by the Israeli blockade and bureaucratic hurdles. Testimonies from Gaza highlight desperate families unable to find food, with malnourished mothers unable to produce breastmilk and fatal shortages of baby formula. Netanyahus assertions have unleashed a wave of international condemnation. The United Nations, numerous governments and more than 100 humanitarian aid organizations have decried the Israeli policy as orchestrated famine and genocide, emphasizing that the starvation in Gaza is not accidental but a product of deliberate deprivation and the systematic obstruction of overland aid. Protests have erupted in major cities across the US, Europe and the Middle East, where demonstrators have filled streets demanding an immediate end to the blockade and the free flow of aid into Gaza. In New York City, hundreds marched through Manhattan during a mass Day of Action, chanting for justice for Palestine and decrying US complicity in what they described as genocide and collective punishment. Outside the White House in Washington, protesters banged pots and carried signs reading Let the food trucks in and Israel stop starving Gaza, calling on the American administration to halt its support for Israel and enforce urgent humanitarian access. European capitals have seen similar scenes. In Berlin, hundreds gathered, banging kitchenware and carrying banners such as Stop the genocide and Yes to bread, no to bombs, urging the international community, and especially Germany, to intervene and end the famine. In addition, protests and public outrages were reported across the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain and Greece, with actions ranging from large marches to direct blockades of businesses linked to Israeli trade and arms shipments. Aid agencies have called continuously for the opening of all land crossings, a halt to the siege and immediate ceasefire, warning that starvation as a method of warfare is a war crime. Even within Israel, opposition has grown as hundreds of Israelis have joined demonstrations criticizing their government including prominent academics and writers denouncing the policies as beyond the pale of morality. The UNs humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher, called the trickle of aid allowed by Israel a drop in the ocean, warning that 14,000 babies could die in the next 48 hours without immediate intervention. The severity of the public outrage over the starvation of Palestinian babies has also forced hypocritical statements from leading representatives of the imperialist countries who have backed the genocide in Gaza since it began. While visiting Scotland, President Donald Trump unconvincingly said, Those children look very hungry. Thats real starvation, and you cant fake that. The kids need to be fed. Vice President JD Vance also feigned sympathy saying, the United States aims to ensure that starving children receive nourishment. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly referred to the egregious actions in Gaza but took no action to stop them. Starmers government has even claimed in court that there is no serious risk of genocide in Gaza. In its own public relations maneuver, Israel announced on Sunday a tactical pause in its military campaign. The army said it would suspend combat operations for 10 hours each day in three areasGaza City, Deir al-Balah, and Muwasito facilitate aid delivery. However, even as a trickle of aid was let into Gaza, Israeli strikes killed dozens, including those waiting for food in safe zones, illustrating once again that the real aim of the Zionist regime is to terrorize the Palestinian people in advance of their permanent removal from the Strip. On Monday, Israeli military actions in Gaza resulted in the deaths of at least 78 Palestinians, according to health officials in the territory. Strikes were reported across multiple locations, with some of the deadliest air and artillery attacks occurring outside the designated 10-hour daily pause. Among those killed were a pregnant woman and her newborn baby, who both died after an Israeli airstrike hit a house and nearby tents in the Muwasi area of Khan Younis. The newborn had been delivered via emergency surgery but did not survive long after birth. Other strikes targeted homes in Khan Younis and additional sites across the enclave. Reports confirm at least 11 people, including more than half women and children, were killed in a separate attack on a residential building, while additional casualties occurred elsewhere in Gaza as attacks continued amid the humanitarian crisis. Aid organizations quickly condemned the deceptive pauses as inadequate and cynical diversions from any real solution. Numerous truckloads of food remain stuck at Gazas periphery, while children continue to die of starvation inside, as Israel blames others for the lack of food distribution. All the stated humanitarian concerns by the imperialist powers and Israel are exposed by ongoing military operations and the real plans for mass displacement of Palestinians. Israels preparations for a humanitarian city in Rafaha concentration camp near the Egyptian borderare still in the works. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) are working toward the corralling of as many as 2 million Palestinians into a tightly guarded camp in Rafah, intending to deradicalize and reintegrate residents and later prepare them for relocation, that is, permanent expulsion from Gaza. Under this plan, camp residents would be cut off from the outside world, forbidden to leave and exposed to further deprivation and violence. It is to this end of ethnic cleansing that the starvation of the Palestinian population is aimed. As images and reports of starvation in Gaza continue to circulate, the worlds population is becoming aware of these events which recall the crimes perpetrated by the Nazis in the 20th century during World War II. The crimes against humanity now being committed by Israel in Gaza, with the complicity of leaders like Trump, Starmer and Macron, will be remembered as harbingers of revolutionary struggles by the working class that will overthrow the world capitalist system. 5 On Your Side/KSDK Moneywise and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue through links in the content below. Landowners in Montgomery County, Illinois are grappling with a dramatic spike in property taxes after having their bills reassessed. Brandi Lentz told 5 On Your Side she paid $756 in property taxes last year on a 96-acre tract of woodland in Montgomery County. Next year, she has confirmation that her property tax bill will be more than $10,000 a shocking 1,222% increase and she's not alone. Don't miss Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) You dont have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 heres how People are going to lose their property, said former Montgomery Co. Finance Chair Megan Beeler in her interview with 5 On Your Side. When youre looking at a 1,500% increase, a 3,000% increase on property, were not going to have the ability to maintain and pay the taxes. What caused the sudden increase? The increase in property taxes stems from a 2007 state law requiring woodland tracts to be taxed like homes, according to Montgomery County Assessor Kendra Niehaus. Up until this year, the law wasn't correctly implemented in Montgomery County. As a result, woodland properties are now taxed at 33.33% of their market value. Property owners can challenge the assessment through the Board of Review, though a resolution may be difficult due to the lack of township assessors. The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners recently held a special session to address these concerns. What else can property owners do? They should start by reviewing their assessment details for accuracy. They can also compare recent sales of comparable properties in their area to see if their valuation aligns with market trends. Gathering documentation to support a claim of overvaluation can help build a case for an appeal. Once an appeal is filed, owners may be scheduled for a hearing to present their case. So, it's important to prepare a well-organized argument supported by evidence and be mindful of deadlines. Having a solid emergency fund can also help homeowners navigate large tax bills without risking losing their properties. Read more: Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead How to own property without the hassle Investing in real estate has always been an attractive option for building wealth, but the thought of managing properties can be daunting. (Reuters) -Novo Nordisk on Tuesday appointed insider Mike Doustdar as its new chief executive after the Danish obesity drug maker cut its full year outlook for the second time in 2025, sending its shares tumbling. Here are some reactions from market analysts and investors: MARKUS MANNS, A PORTFOLIO MANAGER AT MUTUAL FUNDS FIRM UNION INVESTMENT AND A SHAREHOLDER IN THE COMPANY: "While most people had expected Novo to just trim the top end of the guidance, the magnitude of the guidance cut is a shocker. Novo's problems are much deeper than just compunded Wegovy in the U.S. and extend to the international Wegovy franchise and even to Ozempic in diabetes. Novo has underestimated the self pay market in obesity and just recently started to focus on this important patient segment." JEFFERIES ANALYST BENJAMIN JACKSON ON NEW CEO: "We are surprised by the appointment of Mike Doustdar as CEO, with feedback suggesting an external candidate may have been preferred." J.P.MORGAN ANALYSTS ON THE PROFIT WARNING: "Lowered guidance (is) a reflection of growth expectations in H2'25 for both Wegovy and Ozempic." CITI ANALYSTS ON THE PROFIT WARNING: "We caution against over-reading into Novo's assessment, given tirzepatide's script strength pre-July 1st has been robust and Lilly may have had a more conservative outlook on expectations when giving its own 2025 guidance. Thus, we remain buyers on weakness." ANGELO MEDA, PORTFOLIO MANAGER AND HEAD OF EQUITIES AT BANOR SIM IN MILAN: "The biggest concern is the illegal channel siphoning away market sharesomething that's hard to quantify. Rebuilding trust will take time." (Reporting by Maggie Fick and Danilo Masoni in London, Writing by Boleslaw Lasocki in Gdansk; Editing by Matt Scuffham) 1.Snow White (2025) was banned in Lebanon because it starred Gal Gadot. This wasn't because of her acting it was because she's Israeli-born and served a mandatory two-year service in the Israel Defense Forces. Disney Lebanon actually has an "Israel Boycott List," which is why a lot of movies starring Israeli-born actors aren't released there. There was also a rumor that Snow White was banned in Kuwait because it featured Gal Gadot, but that was proven false. Disney 2.Queer (2024) was banned in Turkey for its "provocative content." The LGBTQ+ film starred Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey, and it featured brief full-frontal male nudity (which was very hot!!!!!!). A24 The film's director, Luca Guadagnino, addressed the ban, saying, "They banned the movie because they said the movie was creating social disorder. I wonder if theyve seen the movie or if they are just judging it by the outline or, lets say, the facetious stupidity of some journalism focusing on James Bond going gay. Variety / A24 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 3.Monty Python's Life of Brian (1979) was banned in several different towns across the United States because of its "controversial themes about Christianity." Cinema International Corporation This movie was also banned in several countries. For example, Ireland banned it from 19791987, and Norway banned it for a full year until 1980. The studio even used these bans as a way to promote the film. In Sweden, they added the tagline "the film so funny that it got banned in Norway." Cinema International Corporation 4.Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023) was banned in the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Lebanon for featuring a single animated frame with a trans flag on it. Sony Pictures Releasing The trans flag appears VERY briefly in Gwen Stacy's bedroom, and it reads "protect trans kids." Unfortunately, there are extra strict guidelines for films in some countries especially for movies with kids as the target audience which need to abide by "local customs and values." Sony Pictures Releasing Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 5.Barbie (2023) was banned in Vietnam because there's a scene that features a map with the "nine-dash line" (a controversial divider used by China to represent its territorial claims in the South China Sea) on it. Warner Bros. Pictures 6.Several countries disagree with China's territorial claims, so this isn't the first time a depiction of the nine-dash line has led to a movie being banned. For example, in 2019, the animated film Abominable was banned in Vietnam, and the Philippines' government also called for a boycott of the film. Universal Pictures 7.The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) was banned in certain countries all across Europe, including in Finland from 19741996, for its graphic violence. Bryanston Distributing Company The movie was initially released in the UK and ran for a full year in London, but it was then banned for 25 years. The British Board of Film Classification even banned the word "chainsaw" from appearing in movie titles during that time. Bryanston Distributing Company Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tobe Hopper, the movie's director, disagreed with the ban, stating that there's "relatively little blood" in the actual film. He went into detail about one scene in particular, when the character Pam is hanged on a meat hook, saying, "You dont see penetration. You dont see blood splatter. There is the shot when shes holding onto the hook and the camera pans down her body, and shes over this washtub. Theres no blood running from her body into the tub, but you know what the tub is for. And a lot of people swear that they saw blood, because they know what its for. And the washtub comes out again later, so as not to ruin the carpet when theyre in the dinner scene." 8.Lightyear (2022) was banned in several OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) member states including Egypt, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia because of a brief same-sex kiss between two characters. Disney / Pixar Disney originally cut the scene entirely because of this backlash, but it was ultimately added back in after a group of Pixar employees spoke out in opposition via an open letter to Disney. Alternate versions of the scene were then released in certain countries, like in Russia where the word "girlfriend" was changed to "partner." Disney / Pixar Here's a snippet from the open letter to Disney, which you can read in full here: "We at Pixar have personally witnessed beautiful stories, full of diverse characters, come back from Disney corporate reviews shaved down to crumbs of what they once were. Nearly every moment of overtly gay affection is cut at Disneys behest, regardless of when there is protest from both the creative teams and executive leadership at Pixar. Even if creating LGBTQIA+ content was the answer to fixing the discriminatory legislation in the world, we are being barred from creating it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 9.Eternals (2021) was banned in Saudi Arabia and Oman because Marvel's first openly gay superhero, Phastos, had a husband in the movie and shared a kiss with him. Marvel It was also banned in Kuwait and Qatar, presumably because those markets have "historically had a problem with the depiction of gods and prophets," i.e. things they consider "blasphemous." Marvel 10.Fifty Shades of Grey (2015) was banned all over like in Kenya, Papua New Guinea, Zimbabwe, and the United Arab Emirates for featuring strong sexual content. Universal Pictures The United Arab Emirates' National Media Council actually proposed that a shortened version of the film could be released, but the studio would have had to cut 35 minutes of "inappropriate scenes" to make it happen, so they instead just pulled the movie entirely. Universal Pictures Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 11.Borat (2006) was banned in Russia among several other countries for potentially being offensive to certain peoples' "religious or national sensibilities." 20th Century Fox Here's the exact reasoning and quote as to why, according to Yuri Vasyuchkov, the head of the film and licensing department for Russia: "We decided not to grant this film a cinema license because there are moments in the film which could offend some viewers' religious or national sensibilities." 20th Century Fox 12.The Da Vinci Code (2006) was banned in a bunchhh of countries including Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon because of "blasphemous content." Sony Pictures Releasing For example, the movie was banned in Jordan because it "tarnishes the memory of Christian and Islamic figures and contradicts the truth as written in the Bible and the Koran about Jesus." Sony Pictures Releasing Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 13.Wonder Woman (2017) was banned in Tunisia because of a Facebook post that its star, Gal Gadot, made in 2014. Her comments defended Israel's war on Gaza in Palestine. Warner Bros. Pictures The movie was also banned in Lebanon because of their "Anti-Israel Boycott" law, as mentioned earlier in this article. That law is apparently "inconsistently enforced," which is why a few of Gal Gadot's movies have aired there without being banned, like Fast & Furious 6 and Knight and Day. 20th Century Fox 14.The Human Centipede 2 (2011) was temporarily banned in Australia because of its "level of depictions of violence." Six Entertainment Company Australia has an RC ("refused classification") category for things like movies and video games. Basically, anything with this rating cannot be "sold, hired, advertised, or legally imported in Australia." The Human Centipede 2 originally got an RC rating because it contained "gratuitous, exploitative, or offensive depictions of violence with a very high degree of impact and cruelty." It was later resubmitted for a new rating. Six Entertainment Company Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 15.Onward (2020) was banned in several countries in the Middle East because the movie depicted Disney's "first" openly gay character. Disney / Pixar The movie was also censored in Russia by replacing the word "girlfriend" with "partner," and other versions simply edited around mentioning the queer character's gender entirely. Disney / Pixar Justice for Globby! 16.The Phantom of the Opera (1925) was banned in the United Kingdom for a few different reasons, most famously because it was "too horrifying" for general audiences. Universal Pictures Carl Laemmle, one of the uncredited producers of The Phantom of the Opera, tried to dispute this ban back in 1926, but the Cinematograph Exhibitors' Association wouldn't budge. Universal Pictures Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This 99-year-old article from the New York Times about the banning is so fascinating. 17.Natural Born Killers (1994) was banned in Ireland because they were concerned about copycat killers being inspired by the movie. Warner Bros. Ireland's censorship board originally didn't give a reason as to why it was banned, and the UK even delayed the release of the movie until the following year because the British Board of Film Classification was unsure if they should give it a rating. Oliver Stone, the movie's director, defended the film against being banned by saying it was a "satire on how the news media can turn serial killers into celebrities." Warner Bros. 18.Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022) was banned in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, and Egypt because it features a lesbian character. Marvel Xochitl Gomez plays America Chavez in the sequel. This character is gay in both the film and the Marvel comics, but unfortunately, it's super common for queer characters to be banned or edited out of movies in the Persian Gulf. Marvel Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 19.Every single movie from the Marx Brothers was banned in Germany because they were Jewish. They made over a dozen films together throughout the '20s'40s, and even though their mother, Miene Schonberg, was born in Dornum (a village in Germany), their films were still banned in the country. United Artists 20.Ireland also banned their movie Monkey Business (1931) for nearly ~70 years~ until the year 2000. This was done in fear that it would "provoke the Irish to anarchy." Paramount Pictures 21.And finally, their movie Duck Soup (1933) was banned in Italy for over a decade by fascist dictator Benito Mussolini. The film mocked dictators, and he "regarded it as a personal insult." The Middle East is anticipated to be a pivotal region in terms of the global conventional refinery capacity additions, expected to contribute over a quarter of the total capacity additions by 2030. This growth is underpinned by large-scale projects, particularly in Iran and Iraq. Both countries are leveraging their vast crude oil reserves to expand refining infrastructure, aiming to meet rising domestic demand, reduce imports of refined products, and strengthen export capabilities. Iran is set to dominate conventional refinery capacity additions in the Middle East, accounting for over 40% of the regions capacity additions by 2030. This can be attributed to several factors, including government support, strategic infrastructure expansion, and a focus on energy self-sufficiency. A total of 15 new-build and expansion projects are expected to come online in Iran by 2030. New-build projects lead the count and are also set to account for over 90% of the countrys total capacity additions by 2030. Among these, Jask II is a major refinery project with substantial capacity additions during the outlook period. Petro Tejarat Shahin is the operator and equity owner of this new-build project. Currently in the front-end engineering design stage, the project is expected to commence operations in 2028 with an announced capacity of 6,000 barrels per day (bpd). Other significant new-build projects such as Siraf and Shahid Ghasem Soleimani further underscore Irans commitment to expanding its refining capacity during the outlook period. Iraq is expected to follow Iran in terms of refinery capacity additions, with nearly 1.9 million barrels per day of capacity expected to be added by 2030. The countrys refinery landscape is equally shaped by both new-build and expansion projects. New build projects lead the capacity additions in the country, accounting for 65% of the total capacity additions by 2030. Around 28% of the upcoming refinery capacity is under construction while the remaining is in the preconstruction stages. Basra II is a major refinery new-build project in Iraq with substantial capacity additions of 300bpd during the outlook period. South Refineries is the operator and equity owner of this project set to begin operations in 2027. Maysan and Nassiriya II are some other major new-build projects with significant capacity additions during the outlook period. Oman stands third in terms of refinery capacity additions, with nearly 695,000bpd of capacity expected to be added by 2030. New-build projects account for most of the capacity additions in the country. Among these, Duqm IV and Duqm III are some major projects with substantial capacity additions, with 300bpd and 200bpd, respectively. Further analysis on global conventional refinery projects can be found in GlobalDatas new report, Conventional Refinery New Build and Expansion Projects Analysis by Type, Development Stage, Key Countries, Region and Forecasts to 2030. As if real-life hippos werent far enough of a cry from their sweet cartoon counterparts polar opposites from Madagascars Gloria or The Backyardigans Tasha Discovery Channels brand new series Animals on Drugs showcases the beasts in even more terrifying light. In the third episode of the three-part series, host Forrest Galante tracks down drug kingpin Pablo Escobars infamous cocaine hippos, which escaped from his abandoned estate in Medellin, Colombia after his death over three decades ago. [Escobars] empire wasnt just built on fear and wealth, Galante said in the clip. It thrived on excess. Among his many indulgences were exotic animals, including a group of hippos, which escaped after his death in 1993. After their escape, the feral hippos began to multiply near their original home at Hacienda Napoles. Now, they proliferate all around Colombias Magdalena River Basin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without predators, theyve thrived here in the Magdalena River Basin, Galante said. What started as just four hippos has ballooned into nearly 200. Such a population boom creates an invasive species, displacing native wildlife, destroying habitats and even endangering human lives, Galante said. The chilling footage featured in the clip shows the invaders chasing after people and boats in quite the nightmarish manner. Why are they called cocaine hippos, you ask? Galante explains why Colombian locals refer to the aggressive creatures as such. Rumors swirl about Escobar feeding his pets coca leaves to fuel their rage and ultimately consume his rivals, Galante said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yikes. Could the rumors be true? Animals on Drugs follows Galante, a wildlife biologist and rare species expert, to Medellin, where he digs deep into the plethora of mystery surrounding these vicious animals. In my most dangerous investigation yet, the Colombian government has asked for my help to deal with these invasive giants and find out if its possible to bring balance back to this fragile ecosystem without destroying the creatures that have become an unlikely symbol of one of historys darkest chapters, he said. Tune in to Animals on Drugs on Discovery Channel or discovery+ tonight. All three parts of the series drop at 8 p.m. ET/PT. 'The Bold and the Beautiful's Thorsten Kaye Has Message for Fans Ahead of Italy Episodes originally appeared on Parade. The Bold and the Beautiful is headed back to Italy, where, as fans know, romance always blossoms. As Parade reported, Jack Wagner (Nick) teased that things heat up between Nick and Brooke (Katherine Kelly Lang), much to Ridges (Thorsten Kaye) dismay. Kaye opened up about the infamous love triangle of Brooke, Ridge, and Taylor (Rebecca Budig). Now that Nick is back in the mix to fight for Brooke, Kaye admitted to TV Insider that there are plenty of twists and turns in Italy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think Ridge feels threatened, not necessarily by Nick as a person, but by any man who walks in and is ready to give Brooke the full attention she deserves. I think Ridge is threatened by that, because he cant do it. I think the insecurity is that shes going to see that Ridge is not irreplaceable, Kaye shared with the outlet. Ridge and Brooke reunited last time the CBS soap was in Italy. Kaye didnt say if history would repeat itself, but he did have some words of encouragement for fans. Without question, these are some of the most beautiful places in the world. In addition to the mystery of Naples, theres something about being on an island. Something could happen because weather could come in, or somebody that knows a lot about boats may not know as much as he thinks he does. Youve got to tune in for it, he expressed. Make sure to tune in to see what happens in Italy as Ridge, Nick, Brooke, and Eric (John McCook) head there for business and unexpected pleasure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Bold and the Beautiful airs weekdays on CBS. 'The Bold and the Beautiful's Thorsten Kaye Has Message for Fans Ahead of Italy Episodes first appeared on Parade on Jul 28, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 28, 2025, where it first appeared. Which person from the First State is most worthy to have their face emblazoned across the glorious "Welcome to Delaware" signs? It should probably be one of the esteemed people you crowned as winner of the "2025 Most Famous Delawarean," a royal rumble of a contest where a champion has finally been selected after 72 hopefuls went toe-to-toe (sweaty gym socks and all) over five intense rounds on Delaware Online. The illustrious winner isn't someone with presidential prestige, or a boxer who fought in a title match at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Delaware's brightest star is none other than Aubrey Plaza, the Wilmington A-list actor of "The White Lotus" fame and now a two-time winner of the "Most Famous Delawarean" competition. Both times, the "Parks & Rec'' star and Wilmington Drama League alum defeated Joe Biden to earn the shimmering Delaware crown that smells like tax-free shopping and scrapple. The people have spoken again. Im sorry, Joe. But they hath chosen the Queen of Hagley Museum. The Countess of Concord Pike. The Dutchess of Dewey! My reign continues! Plaza said in a statement to Delaware Online/The News Journal. Joe Alert: 'Did you just make Joe Biden laugh?' Tourists run into former president eating ice cream Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plaza and Biden have a longtime, playful connection. The Ursuline grad, whose latest film opens Aug. 22, tipped her hat to the former president earlier this year by taking up our offer of writing a tribute to Biden as he left office. Aubrey Plaza's Delaware star has grown extra bright since 2018 Aubrey Plaza was voted by readers as Delaware's most famous person in the '2025 Most Famous Delawarean' contest. Plaza is pictured at the 'Honey Don't!' red carpet at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 23, 2025 in Cannes, France Plaza has come a long way since she won the inaugural Most Famous contest in 2018 and upset Biden to claim the throne. Biden's popularity was high after serving his second term as vice president for Barack Obama, which concluded in 2017. "Given her relatively limited exposure, Plaza's selection might come as a surprise to some," The News Journal published in a 2018 article about Plaza, after she won the first Most Famous Delawarean contest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Triple Threat: Actress, comedian and author Aubrey Plaza prepares release of third book "Her biggest roles on the silver screen have included star turns in well-regarded, but little-known indie gems such as the 2017 black comedy 'Ingrid Goes West' and 2012's science-fiction romantic comedy 'Safety Not Guaranteed.'" Plaza has since blossomed into a Hollywood juggernaut who earned an Emmy nomination for "The White Lotus." Although Plaza has too many accolades to count, her other notable accomplishments include racking up Super Bowl commercials, joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe in "Agatha All Along," starring in the Francis Ford Coppola-directed "Megalopolis," and this summer starring in the new Ethan Cohen-directed dark comedy "Honey Don't!" with Chris Evans. When Plaza had her debut as an "SNL'' host in 2023, she used the opportunity to kid Biden about besting him in the Delaware Online contest, saying "Bow to your queen!'' And Biden reaffirmed her dominance in a prerecorded video call. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to big acting credits, Plaza has become a favorite of magazine fashion spreads and runway couture in recent years. For example, she hit the red carpet in May at the Cannes Film Festival to promote "Honey Don't!" and Harper's Bazaar celebrated her choice of more casual Cannes ensembles, including "crisp Memorial Day whites.'' She and Dan Levy also made a commercial for the high-end fashion line Loews. More Aubrey news: Aubrey Plaza among inductees into film Academy for 2025 Her appearance at the Cannes Film Festival was especially significant as it marked her first red carpet event since her husband died in January. What's next for Plaza? That's a loaded question. According to Plaza's IMDB page, she has some upcoming films that include "The Accompanist" with Susan Sarandon, plus "The Ark and the Aardvark"and "Olga Dies Dreaming." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She's also in the animated "Animal Friends" with Jason Momoa ("Aquaman") and Ryan Reynolds ("Deadpool"). The film (listed in post-production) is about two animals that become unlikely friends and has been pushed back to next spring. 'Superman' film makes Delaware his home: Here's the lowdown Dave Tiberi punches his way to 2nd place in Delaware poll Former boxer Dave Tiberi of New Castle was voted by readers as the second most famous person in Delaware in the '2025 Most Famous Delawarean' contest. The runner-up in the "Most Famous Delawarean" contest is Dave Tiberi, the New Castle man who famously lost a controversial fight against James "Lights Out" Toney at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City in 1992. The match was for the IBF World Middleweight and ended in a split decision. It was Tiberi's last professional fight, but the boxer-turned businessman remains a cherished warrior in the hearts of Delawareans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even in retirement, he fought his way to second place in the "Most Famous Delawarean" competition, sending Biden down to third place, which is a big surprise, and pretty legendary. Joe Biden voted Delaware's 3rd most famous person The 46th U.S. President Joe Biden was voted by readers as the third most famous person in Delaware in the '2025 Most Famous Delawarean' contest. Joe Biden, the 46th president and hometown hero of Claymont, Greenville and Rehoboth Beach, started strong in the Most Famous Delawarean contest, leading the stars in Round 1. But Aubrey Plaza and Dave Tiberi double-teamed Biden, tickling the former president, causing him to lose his grip and slip to third place. Plaza has become Bidens Kryptonite in the Most Famous Delawarean contests. It's unexpected that the first Delawarean president would be defeated by the actor a second time, because Biden is more recognized globally now than he was during the first Most Famous contest in 2018. Biden's fame skyrocketed after he defeated Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election, elevating him to arguably the most powerful position in the world. Its hard to be more famous than a former president who has only been out of the White House for less than a year. But Plaza, the queen of deadpan, somehow pulled off a Small Wonder miracle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Was the "Most Famous Delawarean" contest sabotaged? We see no evidence of Russian interference or stolen votes. In the end, The News Journal has determined the integrity of this contest is cleaner than a toddler in new dino jammies right before spaghetti night. Tammy Paolino contributed to this report. Have a story idea? Contact Ryan Cormier of Delaware Online/The News Journal at rcormier@delawareonline.com or (302) 324-2863. Follow him on Facebook (@ryancormier) and X (@ryancormier). If you have an interesting story idea, email lifestyle reporter Andre Lamar at alamar@gannett.com. Consider signing up for his weekly newsletter, DO Delaware, at delawareonline.com/newsletters. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Is Aubrey Plaza, Joe Biden or Dave Tiberi our most famous Delawarean? Christopher Nolan has been asked to stop filming scenes from The Odyssey in the city of Dakhla, located in the Moroccan-occupied Western Sahara. Why has Christopher Nolan received backlash for filming The Odyssey in a controversial location? The Western Sahara International Film Festival (FiSahara), which takes place in the Sahrawi refugee camps in Algeria, and international human rights activists have urged Nolan to suspend production in the Dakhla region. FiSahara released a statement, explaining how the indigenous Sahrawi population in the military-occupied city is subject to brutal repression by Moroccan forces. By filming part of The Odyssey in an occupied territory billed as a news black hole by Reporters without Borders, Nolan and his team, perhaps unknowingly and unwillingly, are contributing to the repression of the Sahrawi people by Morocco, and to the Moroccan regimes efforts to normalise its occupation of Western Sahara, said FiSahara Executive Director Maria Carrion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The festival continued, We are sure that were they to understand the full implications of filming such as high-profile film in a territory whose indigenous peoples are unable to make their own films about their stories under occupation, Nolan and his team would be horrified. Morocco routinely touts Sahrawi cultural expressions as uniquely Moroccan. They created a film festival in Dakhla to counter ours, and produce high budget films that portray Western Sahara as part of Morocco. However, Sahrawis trying to make films about their lives are persecuted and must work clandestinely and at great risk to themselves and their families. Nolan and Universal, the studio behind The Odyssey, have yet to comment on the issue. The Odyssey is an adaptation of the Greek epic about Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, who embarks on a treacherous journey home after the Trojan War. The Odyssey stars Matt Damon as Odysseus and Tom Holland as Odysseus son, Telemachus. The large ensemble includes Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Lupita Nyongo, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal, and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nolan writes and directs The Odyssey for Universal. It will be the first blockbuster to be shot entirely with IMAX cameras. The Odyssey opens in theaters on July 17, 2026. The post Christopher Nolans The Odyssey Gets Backlash Over Controversial Decision appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. Drew Barrymore sported a one-piece swimsuit while enjoying a family vacation in Saint-Tropez. On Sunday, Barrymore, 50, was photographed on a yacht wearing a simple black one-piece during her France getaway. The talk show host spent the day jumping off the side of the boat and relaxing with family members, including her children. Drew Barrymore was seen on her family vacation in Saint-Tropez, France. During "The Drew Barrymore Show" in April, the actress responded to a fan who asked for her "secret to aging gracefully and being so comfortable in your own skin." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jessica Alba Embraces Self-care And Summer Vibes In Bikini Photos App Users Click Here Read On The Fox News App Barrymore responded, "I havent done anything, and I want to try and stay that way." She expressed that she's not knocking anyone for getting procedures done and promoted that people should "do whatever works for you." Like What Youre Reading? Click Here For More Entertainment News "The only thing I do know is: Dont judge other people because they do things differently. We're all on our own path, and we have to support each other," Barrymore noted. Drew Barrymore previously revealed she has not had any work done. Drew explained that as she has gotten older, she has become more self-conscious about certain parts of her body, including her "turkey neck." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I see a lot of turkey neck, or I have a lot of other times where Im like, Oh, wow! Wow, were there now,'" she said. Click Here To Sign Up For The Entertainment Newsletter Barrymore didn't have an answer for the fan who asked her, but she did give the woman some advice on how to approach aging. "I want to tell myself not to be so mean to myself. How many beautiful moments do we even get the privilege of seeing our reflection and that person looking back at us is us? Drew Barrymore promotes women being nicer to themselves when it comes to their physical appearance. "So the kinder, more patient, more resilient, more loving, embracing, less dismissive that we can be, the better it is for our mental game and spiritual game, which affects the face," Barrymore said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The "Charlie's Angels" star continued, "A smile is better than any lipstick youll buy, and internal dialog that isnt so eviscerating of ourselves and so quick to catch a flaw who says thats the flaw? By the way, that might be someone elses favorite thing about you... how ironic. It isnt how you look. Its how you feel." Original article source: Drew Barrymore flaunts natural beauty in black swimsuit during luxurious yacht getaway The Gist In her new book, Gwyneth: The Biography, Amy Odell writes that Gwyneth Paltrow reportedly wanted to have a baby with Luke Wilson. Paltrow and Wilson dated from 2001 to 2002 after meeting on the set of The Royal Tenenbaums. Paltrow went on the marry Chris Martin and welcomed two children, Apple and Moses. The star couple split in 2014. While the world is quite familiar with Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin's mini-me children, Apple and Moses, the actress reportedly wanted to have a child with one of her other famous exes. Amy Odell wrote all about what could have been in her new book, Gwyneth: The Biography. Getty Images Luke Wilson and Gwyneth Paltrow walking in London. Luke Wilson and Gwyneth Paltrow walking in London. Odell takes readers all the way back to 2002, when Paltrow was dating her The Royal Tenenbaums costar Luke Wilson. "After her father's death [in October 2002], Gwyneth started smoking cigarettes again, and realized she wanted to start her own family," Odell writes. "She had thought about having a baby with Luke Wilson, but, according to one of Gwyneths friends, he smoked a lot of pot and didnt seem ready to be a parent." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the tale goes, Paltrow and Wilson met on set of the dramedy in 2001 and dated for a year, though few details are known about their coupling. Getty Images Chris Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow at the 71st Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 12, 2014, in Beverly Hills, California. Chris Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow at the 71st Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 12, 2014, in Beverly Hills, California. In the same excerpt, Odell explained that Paltrow had asked director Mary Wigmore to stay with her in London, where they planned to see a Coldplay concert. It was during this time, October 2002, that the Iron Man star first met Martin. Paltrow and Martin's spark was strong, as they were already stirring up engagement rumors by November 2003, when they began house hunting in north London. Their romance did indeed move quickly, as they confirmed they were expecting their first child on December 3, 2003, and tied the knot just two days later during a surprise ceremony in Santa Barbara, California. They welcomed their baby girl Apple on May 14, 2004, and Moses followed behind on April 8, 2006. Gwyneth Paltrow / Instagram Apple Martin, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Moses Martin. Apple Martin, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Moses Martin. However, after more than a decade of marriage, the two announced they were going to "consciously uncouple and co-parent" on March 25, 2014. They have remained close after their split and moved on to other romantic relationships. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July 2014, the Goop founder started dating Brad Falchuk, who she exchanged vows with on September 29, 2018. Meanwhile, Martin struck up a romance with Dakota Johnson in October 2017, though the two recently called in quits last month. Read the original article on InStyle Heidi Klum is shrugging off the criticism she's received for posing in lingerie with her daughter Leni. "A lot of people are like, Oh, I dont know about mom and daughter doing this together," Klum told People magazine. "But for us? Im proud of my daughter. Shes fine with me like that." Klum, 52, and her daughter Leni, 21, have posed together in multiple ads for the Italian brand, Intimissimi . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ive always been very open with my body," she continued. "When Im suntanning in the backyard, I might not have a top on. Im European My kids dont know me any other way and are probably more easygoing with their bodies because of it." Heidi Klum's Lingerie Shoot With 20-Year-old Daughter Sparks Online Debate: Gives Me A Yucky Feeling Heidi Klum defended the lingerie ads she posed in with her daughter Leni. Leni launched her modeling career at the age of 16. Klum and her daughter appeared together on the cover of Vogue Germany for the January/February issue in 2021. Read On The Fox News App "So excited for my first cover!! I had so much fun on set with @voguegermany couldn't dream of a better start!! Thank you for being by my side @heidiklum," Leni wrote on Instagram at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like What Youre Reading? Click Here For More Entertainment News Leni Klum and her mom Heidi sparked backlash over their controversial Intimissimi ads. The young model previously hit back at criticism over her choice to pose for lingerie ads with Klum. "I always try to remember that no matter what you do, there will always be someone who doesn't like it," Leni told Glamour Germany . "You simply have no influence on it and shouldn't concentrate too much on the negative." She added: "But there are so many more positive reactions. Oh, and: Most of the comments are in German, and I don't really understand many of them. Of course that helps too." Leni Klum began modeling at age 16. Click Here To Sign Up For The Entertainment Newsletter Leni Klum followed in her mother's footsteps when launching her modeling career. Leni and Klum have faced criticism every time they've posed for Intimissimi. After sharing a new ad in October 2024, the mother-daughter duo received mixed comments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This makes me feel uncomfortable," one user wrote. "Heidi looks amazing. But why would you pose in lace revealing lingerie with your mother?" another added. "Gives me a yucky feeling. And before someone tells me to unfollow Don't! I didn't follow it in the first place. It showed up on my feed. There is no place on this ad where I can block it anyway so I am commenting." However, not everyone had a problem with the photos. "Two beautiful ladies! I can't imagine why anyone would be critical of this. People have been modeling underwear forever," a user wrote. Original article source: Heidi Klum hits back at backlash over risque lingerie campaign with daughter Before she was a billionaire mogul, a beauty empire boss, and mom, Rihanna was a girl from Barbados with a dream and a voice that would change the industry. She stepped onto the scene at just 17 years old with her debut single Pon de Replay, and since then, shes given us chart-topping albums, endless iconic eras, and a legacy of fashion and energy that shifted the culture. After her mega-success as an artist, she expanded her empire (and family with A$AP Rocky) into Savage X Fenty, Fenty Beauty, Fenty Skin, and Fenty Hair. So, in honor of how far she has come, were throwing it back to a few classic Rihanna moments from her childhood in Barbados to TRL, early awards show glams, and more. Trending 1. A childhood moment in Barbados with family This nostalgic photo captures a young Rihanna with her younger brother, Rorrey Fenty. He posted it with the caption, La Familia! and the disclaimer that their other brother wasnt born yet. It was a sweet moment, reflecting Rihanna's humble beginnings. 2. Sibling love at the People Music Lounge Back in 2007, Rihanna stepped out in New York City with her younger brother to go to the People Music Lounge. The duo's close bond was evident as they enjoyed the event together, showcasing Rihanna's commitment to family amidst her rising fame. 3. Posing with her mother and grandfather at the TIME 100 Gala At the 2012 TIME 100 Gala, Rihanna was accompanied by her mother, Monica Fenty, and grandfather, Lionel Brathwaite. Celebrating her recognition as one of the world's most influential people, this appearance highlighted the strong family support behind her success. 4. Joining the "SOS" BET Telethon Relief event Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sept. 9, 2005, Rihanna participated in the BET Telethon Relief event at CBS Studios in New York City. The event aimed to support Hurricane Katrina victims, and Rihanna's involvement demonstrated her early commitment to humanitarian causes. 5. Backstage at the 2005 World Music Awards with industry icons As just a teenager, Rih was already rubbing shoulders with icons. Backstage at the 2005 World Music Awards, she linked up with Babyface, Destinys Child, Usher, and Teairra Mari for a photo. That same night, she joined a tribute performance honoring Destinys Child. This gathering of music industry heavyweights highlighted the significant support and mentorship she received early in her career. 6. Pulling up to TRL in peak 2000s fashion Rihanna made one of her first appearances at MTVs TRL studios in Times Square on Sept. 6, 2005. It was a rite of passage for every pop star of the era and she understood the assignment. 7. Being lifted like a queen in Copenhagen During the 2006 MTV European Music Awards in Copenhagen, Denmark, Rihanna delivered an energetic performance, even being carried by dancers on stage. Her star power was already in full force by the time she stepped on the international stage. 8. Showing love as L.A. Reid receives his music visionary award in NYC Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rihanna attended and performed at the ceremony where L.A. Reid received the UJA-Federation of New York's Music Visionary Award. It was an important moment for both of their careers, showcasing new milestones theyve reached as artists. 9. Gracing the red carpet at New York Fall Fashion Week Rihanna attended the Conde Nast Media Group's 3rd Annual Fashion Rocks Concert at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Her elegant appearance on the red carpet showcased her growing influence in both the music and fashion industries. 10. Rockstar energy at the 2009 American Music Awards With a mohawk and metallics, Rihanna posed for portraits at the 2009 American Music Awards. This was the peak of her Rated R era, and she made sure we never forgot it. 11. Filming the What's My Name" music video in NYC Rihanna was spotted filming the music video for her hit single "What's My Name" featuring Drake in the Lower East Side of Manhattan in September 2010. Her red hair, big smile, and off-duty looks were giving carefree icon. 12. The Loud Tour energy in Oakland Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rihanna lit up the Oracle Arena in Oakland, CA, during her Loud Tour on June 30, 2011. The looks, the vocals, the energy we can always count on her for an amazing show. 13. That first Grammy glow She won her very first Grammy Award in 2008 for Umbrella featuring JAY-Z, and the photo says it all. Rihannas joy in this backstage pic at the Staples Center is forever iconic. This accolade marked a significant milestone in her musical journey. You Might Also Like Luke Bryans concert at the North Dakota State Fair came to an end after the country music super star was hit in the face with a flying object Saturday. KFYR in Bismarck, N.D., originally reported on the incident, which saw Bryan pause briefly then finish the song, Country Girl, while on stage at the fair in Minot. That turned out to be the final song of the show, however, as Bryan then left the stage according to KFYR. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A representative for the Ward County Sheriffs office told the news station no charges had been pressed nor was there an investigation open on the matter as of Sunday because Bryan had not filed a complaint. Bryans tour is set to continue Thursday night in St. Louis, Mo. That is the first of three straight nights he is set to perform. He will be in Cincinnati on Friday night and Burgettstown, Pa., on Saturday. The tour is set to run through January. Luke Bryan Sings Through Painful Moment on Stage first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 28, 2025 By Aishwarya Jain and Doyinsola Oladipo (Reuters) -JetBlue Airways on Tuesday posted an adjusted loss for the second quarter that was smaller than Wall Street expectations, helped by cost cutting measures and recovering demand for travel in the U.S. Shares of the carrier shot up nearly 12% in early morning trading as the company also said it received the green light from the US Department of Transportation to proceed with a partnership with United Airlines. "Over the quarter, we saw encouraging signs of an improved demand environment as the number of close-in bookings accelerated as the quarter progressed," said Marty St. George, JetBlue's president on a post-earnings call. Unlike larger peers Delta and United, who reinstated their 2025 earnings guide on signs that bookings are starting to stabilize, JetBlue did not, noting limited visibility into the fourth quarter and industry capacity. In April, JetBlue joined several major airlines in pulling its 2025 financial forecast, citing uncertainty tied to the Trump administration's sweeping tariff policies and federal spending cuts that weighed on consumer travel. The carrier said it expects third-quarter revenue per available seat mile (RASM), an industry metric commonly known as unit revenue and a proxy for pricing power, to decline between 2% and 6%. It also reinstated its 2025 unit cost forecast and expects it to rise between 5% and 7%. The New York-based airline said unit revenue during the second quarter declined 1.5%, which exceeded previous guidance, as premium and transatlantic travel demand also boosted results. The carrier reported an adjusted loss of 16 cents per share for the quarter ended June 30, compared to analysts' estimate of a loss of 33 cents apiece. Operating revenue was $2.18 billion. Analysts, on average, were expecting $2.28 billion, as per data compiled by LSEG. The carrier said it expects to return to capacity growth in 2026 in part due to an improved impact from ongoing inspections of RTX's Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbofan engines. The company now expects fewer than 10 grounded aircraft in 2025 down from mid-to-high teens. (Reporting by Aishwarya Jain in Bengaluru and Doyinsola Oladipo in New York; Editing by Shailesh Kuber) Miley Cyrus Just Teased a Hannah Montana 20th Hannaversary Celebration - Fans Are Ready With Adult Money' originally appeared on Parade. Sometimes the most beautiful moments come from embracing your past with gratitude. Miley Cyrus just delivered exactly that kind of heartwarming announcement, revealing plans for a special Hannah Montana 20th anniversary celebration that has fans absolutely losing their minds and their wallets. The 32-year-old Grammy winner shared her excitement about the upcoming "Hannah-versary" in March, speaking with genuine appreciation about the character that launched her career. The Disney Channel series, which ran for four seasons and 98 episodes from 2006 to 2011, followed Miley Stewart's double life as a typical teenager by day and famous pop star, Hannah Montana, by night. What struck fans most wasn't just the promise of celebration, but Cyrus's humble reflection on Hannah's lasting impact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I want to design something really, really special for it because it really was the beginning of all of this," Cyrus explained, acknowledging how the Disney Channel phenomenon shaped everything that followed. Her words carried deep gratitude as she admitted, "Really without Hannah there really wouldn't be this kind of, this me." The response from fans was immediate and overwhelming, with millennials who grew up watching the secret identity storyline declare they're finally ready to spend their "adult money" on whatever Cyrus has planned. The show, which premiered March 24, 2006, and concluded January 16, 2011, created a generation of devoted fans who are now adults with disposable income. Comments flooded in from 26 and 27-year-olds excitedly sharing how they now have the financial freedom their parents didn't when they were kids begging for concert tickets. One fan perfectly captured the sentiment: "Please be a tour my parents didn't have money back then but I have adult money now and babbbyyyy I'm going!" Another added, "Now, I'm 27 and ready to charge this to my credit card," showcasing the pent-up demand from fans who've been waiting years for this moment. Related: Rarely Seen 90s Iconic It Girl Looks Unrecognizable in Recent Interview What makes Cyrus's announcement particularly touching is her evolved perspective on the character she once struggled to escape. The show that made her a household name alongside co-stars Emily Osment, Mitchel Musso, Jason Earles, and her real-life father Billy Ray Cyrus, once felt impossible to move beyond. Now, she reflects on how Hannah has become a beautiful source of nostalgia that connects her to fans' childhoods while allowing her authentic self to coexist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Franklin, Tennessee native's humility about her Disney Channel roots represents significant personal growth. Her willingness to celebrate rather than distance herself from Hannah Montana shows an artist who's learned to honor all parts of her journey. SIGN UP for Parades Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox While Cyrus kept details deliberately vague, fans are already speculating about everything from tours to special merchandise, with many declaring this could be "bigger than the Eras Tour." Whatever she's planning, one thing is certain: millennials with disposable income are ready to make their childhood dreams come true. Miley Cyrus Just Teased a Hannah Montana 20th Hannaversary Celebration - Fans Are Ready With Adult Money' first appeared on Parade on Jul 29, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 29, 2025, where it first appeared. The Brief Malcolm-Jamal Warner died at 54 in a drowning accident in Costa Rica. His "Cosby Show" co-stars shared emotional tributes. He was remembered as a key figure in 1980s Black television history. More stars of "The Cosby Show" are reacting to the death of Malcolm-Jamal Warner. Warner, who as teenage son Theo Huxtable on "The Cosby Show" was central to a cultural phenomenon that helped define the 1980s, died last week at the age of 54 in an accidental drowning in Costa Rica. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Malcolm-Jamal Warner, star of 'The Cosby Show,' dies at 54 What they're saying "A week ago I lost my big brother but I gained an angel I love you I miss you We got our girls," Keshia Knight-Pulliam posted on Instagram Monday. Raven-Symone, who joined the hit sitcom at just three years old during its final three seasons, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram. "Words cannot describe the pain, sadness, and surprise that I feel with the recent loss of MJW. He was a big brother. He was a beacon. He was one of the most multifaceted, talented menso gentle. He gave the best advice. He gave the best hugs, and his smile will always be a huge, bright, white smile in my head forever. I love you and I know youre watching over all of us now," the actress said in a video. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Cosby Shows" embattled patriarch, Bill Cosby, also shared his thoughts last week. RELATED: Bill Cosby reacts to Malcolm-Jamal Warner's death: Report Cosbys representative, Andrew Wyatt, told TMZ that Warners death brought him back to January 1997, when he got a call informing him that his son, Ennis Cosby, was killed in an attempted robbery. THE COSBY SHOW -- Season 1 -- Pictured: (l-r) Malcolm-Jamal Warner as Theodore 'Theo' Huxtable, Keshia Knight Pulliam as Rudy Huxtable, Bill Cosby as Dr. Heathcliff 'Cliff' Huxtable, Tempestt Bledsoe as Vanessa Huxtable, Phylicia Rashad as Clair Hanks Huxtable, Lisa Bonet as Denise Huxtable -- Photo by: Frank Carroll/NBCU Photo Bank What happened to Malcolm Jamal-Warner? Costa Ricas Judicial Investigation Department said Monday that Warner drowned Sunday afternoon on a beach on Costa Ricas Caribbean coast. He was swimming at Playa Cocles in Limon province when a current pulled him deeper into the ocean. What they're saying "He was rescued by people on the beach," the department's initial report said, but first responders from Costa Ricas Red Cross found him without vital signs and he was taken to the morgue. Warner and Cosby Show legacy Like the rest of the "Cosby Show" cast, Warner had to contend with the sexual assault allegations against its titular star, whose conviction in a Pennsylvania court was later overturned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Warner told the Associated Press in 2015 that the show's legacy was "tarnished." "My biggest concern is when it comes to images of people of color on television and film," Warner said. "We've always had The Cosby Show to hold up against that. And the fact that we no longer have that, thats the thing that saddens me the most because in a few generations the Huxtables will have been just a fairy tale." The Source Catherine Stoddard and the Associated Press contributed to this report. Information in this story comes from official statements by Costa Ricas Judicial Investigation Department. This story was reported from Los Angeles. THE RUNDOWN Ana de Armas and Tom Cruise were photographed holding hands in Woodstock, Vermont after months of dating rumors. The two actors are working on a project together and were seen at an Oasis concert over the weekend, too. Their relationship change is likely recent, as a source told People on July 18 that de Armas was single. Questions about Ana de Armas and Tom Cruises relationship status have circulated for months, but it appears the two stars, who are working together on an upcoming thriller called Deeper, may have developed a romance offscreen. TMZ published photos of the pair holding hands during a weekend in Woodstock, Vermont. Notably, De Armas owns a $7 million house in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement De Armas, 37, and Cruise, 63, were seen at Oasiss Wembley Stadium concert in London on Saturday, then traveled to Vermont, according to TMZ. The outlet reported their activities included visiting a national park, having ice cream, and shopping. Photos of them holding hands were taken on Sunday. Its likely de Armas and Cruises relationship change is very recent. On July 18, People reported that de Armas was single after ending her relationship with Manuel Anido Cuesta, who is Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudezs stepson. While Cruise and de Armas are working together, it appears theyve been spending time off set for months. On May 10, a source told Page Six that the two actors attended David Beckhams 50th birthday party together and [were] clearly enjoy hanging out. That said, the source added, Ive no proof its romantic. Four days later, a source told Us Weekly that the two actually are more than friends and costars. Its low-key, still new, and in the early stages, the source said. Their romance is definitely on the down low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Initially, their connection was just work-oriented, the source said, but the relationship developed. Cruise became super smitten [with her, and it] developed into feelings. Theyve gone out on some dates, and its very low-key. Its in the early stages, and hes been courting her. De Armas has been a little resistant, with the source describing her as cautious: She isnt looking for anything to move too fast, shes taking it really slow. You Might Also Like Prince Harry is believed to have visited the country of Botswana after his long trip to Angola. The Duke of Sussex had long ties to the African country, and he reportedly visited one of his close friends whom he considers a mother. According to Hello! Magazine, Prince Harry might have swung by his second family. I came here in 1997 or 1998 straight after my mum died, so it was a nice place to get away from it all, he said. Its a sense of escapism a real sense of purpose I have some of my closest friends here over the years. Some of those closest friends include filmmaker Tania TeeJ Jenkins and her husband Mike. More from StyleCaster Related: Prince Harry Revealed What Breaks His Heart as a Father After Reports William Plans to Strip Archie & Lilibet of Their Royal Titles He recounted in his memoir Spare, She and Mike were the first people ever to cherish whatever wildness was still inside me, whatever hadnt been lost to grief and paps. They were outraged that others wanted to eliminate this last bit, that others were keen to put me into a cage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Duke shared this one anecdote in his book about how he accidentally slipped out a new nickname for Teej. One afternoon, as we were all getting ready to go for a walk, Teej started nagging me [and I said] Okaaay, Mom. It just flew out of my mouth. I heard it, and stopped. Teej heard it and stopped. But I didnt correct myself. Teej looked shocked, but also moved. I was moved as well. Thereafter, I called her Mom all the time. It felt good. For both of us. Though I made a point, always, to call her Mom, rather than Mum. There was only one Mum. His trip to Angola was a tribute to his mothers work, and he walked the same minefield she did in 1997. He said it was a responsibility he takes seriously, and this trip to Angola to raise awareness for the countrys war recovery. Children should never have to live in fear of playing outside or walking to school, he said. The Halo Trust has cleared 120,000 landmines in Angola that were left over from years of civil war. As Harry undertook this trip, one person was noticably missing: his wife, Meghan Markle. This is particularly noticeable considering it comes after reports indicated Harry wasnt very pleased that his wife, As Ever, brand released their first rose on July 1, which is also Princess Dianas birthday. He told her, Please, not on Mummys birthday, Rob Shuter reported. It wasnt about business it was about respect. But Markle, reportedly, did not budge. Hes devastated, a source confirmed to the gossip Substack. That day means everything to him. To see it turned into a PR push hurts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Daily Mail, Meghan Markles absence had nothing to do with the wine. Instead, he didnt allow her to go because of security issues. The Duke wont let his wife go to England over security concerns, so there was no chance hed allow her to go to Angola to walk across landmines, a source said. Though Harry made it a point to bring up his family in his charity work. The Invictus Games founder previously told The Telegraph that Archie asked not just about his work in Angola, but requested to see footage of Princess Dianas walk. Archie was asking about landmines, so I was talking about how some of these guys were blown up, Harry told the outlet. Interestingly, it gave me a chance to talk about my mum, his grandma, which I didnt even really consider, so that became the outcome of the story for him, he added, sharing that Archie wanted to see videos and photographs of his Grandma Diana out doing her thing for landmines all those years ago. It produced a very interesting conversation between me and him, different to what I thought it would be. Best of StyleCaster Sign up for Stylecaster's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Sydney Sweeney might be embracing her newly single era, but she has found herself at the center of dating rumors yet again since her split from her ex-fiance, Jonathan Davino. Last week, photos captured her enjoying a fun summer in Idaho. She hopped on a jet ski with a mystery man, sparking speculations about their relationship. Prior to this, Sweeney was linked with Orlando Bloom and Tom Brady while she was attending Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchezs wedding. Sydney Sweeney turns up summer heat while riding jet ski with mystery man Sydney Sweeney in Idaho pic.twitter.com/81wz8R2vJe favs pop culture (@favspopculture) July 29, 2025 Over the weekend, Sydney Sweeney spent quality time with her friends, which included a jet ski ride with a mystery man in Idaho. According to TMZs report, the group went to a lakefront where the 27-year-old enjoyed a fun ride with the individual. Photos captured the two spending some alone time, evidently enjoying each others company. For the outing, Sweeney opted for a bold navy blue swimsuit and accessorized her fit with black sunglasses, a perfect combination to beat the summer sun. The pictures showed the actor smiling widely as she rode the jet ski, with the mystery man sitting behind her with his hands on her waist. The duo prioritized safety, wearing life jackets while seemingly enjoying the thrill from the fast-paced ride. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They seemed to follow up their jet ski ride with another adventure-filled activity. It captured Sweeney jumping off a cliff using a rope to dive into the water, while the mystery man appeared to cheer for her. These photos were enough to churn the rumor mill, with netizens speculating that the outing was more than just a summer escapade. Sweeney reportedly called off her wedding and ended her engagement with her ex-fiance, Jonathan Davino, in March 2025. Since then, the star has been subject to multiple dating rumors, including speculations pairing her with her Anyone But You co-star, Glen Powell. While attending Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchezs wedding last month, rumors about her dating Orlando Bloom and Tom Brady were also making the rounds. However, sources told TMZ that she wasnt dating anyone and was focusing on her career. Insiders claimed that Sweeney wasnt prioritizing romance at the moment and was enjoying life. Originally reported by Varsha Narayanan on RealityTea. The post Sydney Sweeney Shares Fun Summer Moments in Idaho With Mystery Man appeared first on Mandatory. Originally appeared on E! Online Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty have decided to dance their next chapters solo. The So You Think You Can Dance host and Kielty have called it quits following 12 years of marriage. "We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated," the pair said in a joint statement to BBC July 29. "There is no other party involved." And Deeley and the BBC Radio 5 Live presenter insisted that their children Milo, 8, and James, 5, remain their main focus amid the breakup. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We will continue to be united as loving parents to our children," the statement continued, "and would therefore kindly ask for our family privacy to be respected." The former couple added, "There will be no further comment." Deeley, 48, and Kielty, 54, met in 2002 when they cohosted the BBC talent show Fame Academy together. However, the pair didn't begin dating until a decade later, when Kielty made the grand romantic gesture of flying from Belfast, Ireland, to Los Angeles for Deeley's birthday. More from E! Online Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When she said she was having a birthday lunch at the Beverly Hills Hotel, I said I'd be there," Kielty told Daily Mail in a 2015 interview. "She told me to go to sleep as I was drunk." Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images Of course, The Late Late Show host didn't heed her advice and instead booked the first flight out of Ireland. As he recalled, "I got up at 5 a.m., went to Belfast airport for 6 a.m., got the 7.15 a.m. flight to Heathrow, landed at 8.30 a.m., took off again at 9.40 a.m. and arrived in L.A. at 1.15 p.m." Kielty and Deeley tied the knot in Rome in 2012 and welcomed their first child Milo four years later. In 2020, their family relocated to London, where Deeley signed on to host This Morning alongside Ben Shephard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while their romance may not have stood the test of time, Deeley previously got candid about how important having the support of Kielty has been in her motherhood journey. "You have to juggle like crazy and have a team around you," the TV personality told People in 2018, shortly after welcoming their second son James. "And whether that's your family, mom and dad, nannywhoever it is, you have this team." She added, "It takes a tribe." For more star couples who have gone their separate ways this year, read on... Cat Deeley & Patrick Kielty The So You Think You Can Dance host and Kielty announced their breakup after 12 years of marriage through a joint statement. "We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated," they told BBC July 29. "There is no other party involved." The statement added that Deeley and Kielty would remain "united as loving parents" to their two kids Milo and James. Matt Roloff & Caryn Chandler The Little People, Big World star announced he and his former fiancee, who began dating shortly after his divorce from ex Amy Roloff had called off their engagement in July. "Caryn and I have decided to part ways and end our engagement," he wrote on Instagram at the time. "Lifes a continued journey and this is the right step for us at this time." Dylan Dreyer & Brian Fichera The Today cohost revealed in July that she and her husband of 12 years had decided to separate. For many years I have shared my family with you all--the highs and the lows," Dylan wrote in her Instagram announcement. "The ups and downs. And all of the blessings and beautiful memories in between. "For that reason, I want to share with you that a few months ago, Brian and I made the decision to separate," she continued. "We began as friends, and we will remain the closest of friends. Most importantly, we will continue to co-parent our three wonderful boys together with nothing but love and respect for one another." Denise Richards & Aaron Phypers The actress' husband of six years filed for divorce on July 7, E! News confirmed. In the legal paperwork, Aaron listed the reason for their split as "irreconcilable differences" and noted the date of the separation was July 4 (a.k.a. Independence Day). Aaron is also asking the court to award him spousal support in the divorce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blac Chyna & Derrick Milano After around two years together, the musical artists called off their nine-month engagement after much prayer and reflection. We love each other deeply and are good friends, Chyna (real name Angela White) added in her July 3 social media message, but we both believe that Gods guidance has shown us that this is the right path for both of us, as we each continue our journey. Gigi Gorgeous & Nats Getty After nearly 6 years of marriage, the couple mutually decided to go their separate ways in July. While they have decided to end their marriage, a rep told E! News in a statement, they remain friends and have the [utmost] love and respect for each other. Natswho wed the influencer (real name Giselle Loren Lazzarato) in 2019listed irreconcilable differences in the divorce filing. Chelsea Blackwell & Tim Teeter The Love is Blind reality star confirmed her breakup with her boyfriend on June 29, telling E! News, It came down to a difference in lifestyle and priorities. Wishing her ex nothing but the best, Chelsea added, I was focused on long-term stability and building a future, while he was more rooted in the moment. Over time, it became clear that we just werent aligned anymore. The news comes eight months after the season six contestantwho got engaged to ex Jimmy Presnell during the show, but never made it to the altarhard launched Tim on social media with a simple caption, Me & T. Marion Cotillard & Guillaume Canet The Oscar winner and her partner of 18 yearswho share two kids togetherannounced in June 2025 that they had "decided to separate by mutual agreement." In their joint statement, the pair said that as "parents of two children, they decided to share this decision here in order to avoid all speculation, rumors and risky interpretations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Katy Perry & Orlando Bloom After nine years together, the Roar Singer and Pirates of the Caribbean starwho share daughter Daisy Doveended their engagement, multiple outlets confirmed on June 26. The split rumors began circulating when the pair allegedly began spending more time apart after Katy embarked on her Lifetimes tour without Orlando, split speculation only fueled when he appeared alone in Italy for Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchezs wedding. Dermot Mulroney & Prima Apollinaare The Chicago Fire star filed for divorce from his wife of 14 years on June 23, citing "irreconcilable differences" as the reason for the breakup. Though the paperwork said Mulroney was requesting spousal support, a source close to the former couple told E! News, "No one is asking for anything, and no one is denying anything. They are not arguing over money or the children." "They used mediators, not lawyers," the insider added, "as they are friends and this is amicable." Tammy Hembrow & Matt Zukowski Just seven months after her wedding, the Australian influencer announced she and the Love Island Australia alum called it quits. "I am going to be getting a divorce, Tammy shared in a June 21 video on TikTok. "Obviously, when you marry someone, you do it thinking that it's gonna be forever. And I blame no one but myself, to be honest." Grant Ellis & Juliana Pasquarosa The Season 29 Bachelor couple broke up three months after the finale, sharing the relationship update on Instagram on June 13. We both gave this out best and poured a lot of love into each other, but after a lot of deep conversations, weve come to the understanding that were simply not the right fit long term, Grant shared on his Instagram story. What we had was meaningful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lydia Gonzalez & Milton Johnson After nearly three years of marriage, Love Is Blind star Lydia Gonzalez shared on the June 11 episode of Whats the Reality? podcast that she filed for divorce from Milton Johnson. Sasha Farber & Jenn Tran The Dancing With the Stars partners called it quits less than a year after sparking a romance on the 33rd season of the ABC show, multiple outlets reported in June. Scott Wolf & Kelley Wolf After 21 years of marriage, the Party of Five alum's wife announced in June that the pair were "moving forward with the dissolution of our marriage." We both look forward to an extraordinary life centered around the most extraordinary children," Kelley wrote on Instagram. "I am stepping into a chapter of peace, freedom, and protectionwith grace." Dakota Johnson & Chris Martin On June 4, reports surfaced that the Fifty Shades of Grey alum and the Coldplay frontman parted ways after nearly eight years together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ryan Lochte & Kayla Rae Reid The Olympian and the real estate agent called it quits, with Kayla writing on Instagram June 4, "Earlier this year, I made the hard decision to end my marriage after deep prayer and reflection. Sometimes we face trials we didnt choose or see coming," continued Kayla, who shares kids Caiden, Liv,and Georgia with the swimmer. "And in those moments, were forced to make the hardest decisions to protect our peace, our children, and our future. Ive come to the understanding that staying isnt always the most loving decision someone can make." Romeo Beckham & Kim Turnbull David Beckham and Victoria Beckham's son broke up with the model after seven months of dating, E! News learned in June. Fortune Feimster & Jacquelyn "Jax" Smith The comedian confirmed her breakup with her wife of five years on June 2, writing on Instagram, "Together, we have made the difficult decision to end our marriage." "While we are sad to see this chapter of our lives come to a close," the statement read, "we wish each other nothing but the best as we move forward." Matt Bolton & Colleen Reed On May 23, the Love Is Blind couple shared that they had been "separated for some time now." "It came with a lot of thought and it's been an emotional process for both of us," they said in a joint statement on Instagram. "We met in the most unique and unexpected way, and we'll always be grateful for the love and memories we've shared." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement JoJo Siwa & Kath Ebbs The "Karma" singer ended her monthslong romance with the Australian influencer after her appearance on Celebrity Big Brother UK, during which she struck a close friendship with Chris Hughes. While Kath alleged that she was "dumped" at the April 25 wrap party with Chris in the next door, JoJo contended that the split had nothing to do with her housemate. "We have this very beautiful bond, this very beautiful connection, but dont paint it out to look like I cheated on you with him because I did not," she said on an April 30 episode of The Viall Files. "I will stand on that ground." Savannah Chrisley & Robert Shiver The Chrisley Knows Best alum and her boyfriend broke up after nearly two years together, E! News confirmed in April 2025. She also discussed the breakup on her Untouched podcast, noting, "I have allowed you guys in on my life and that comes with all the highs and all the lows. I've been figuring out how to navigate this stage of my life because it sucks, it hurts." Rami Malek & Emma Corrin Multiple reports said in April 2025 that the Bohemian Rhapsody star and The Crown alum had broken up after dating for almost two years. Gleb Savchenko & Brooks Nader The model and her Dancing With the Stars partner parted ways seven months after first sparking romance rumors, multiple outlets reported in April. Prior to their split, the pair had been open about the on-and-off nature of their relationship, with Brooks even detailing a breakup text she received from Gleb after the two briefly split in October. He said, Picked up my stuff. Im going to Joshua Tree tomorrow for a few nights. We should have a conversation but I think I'm done, Brooks shared during a November 2024 TikTok livestream, according to People. I care about you. I think you're an amazing person. You always have a special place in my heart. I love you.'" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App People who gathered to storm the Area 51 military base ended up just taking photos in front of it. Credit - Netflix The last 2025 installment of Trainwreck, Netflixs series on disasters in recent history, is more about a trainwreck that was averted. Out July 29, Trainwreck: Storm Area 51 explores what happened when conspiracy theorists gathered at a highly-protected military base in rural Nevada, convinced that was where the government was doing top-secret U.F.O research. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were prompted by a Facebook post that was created as a joke. When Matty Roberts of Bakersfield, California, created the public Facebook event Storm Area 51 for Sep. 20, 2019, at 3 a.m., he didnt expect it to go viral. It racked up millions of RSVPs and was poised to be a trainwreck of sorts for the nearby town of Rachel, Nevada and its 56 residents. But only a few hundred people showed up in the end, and a parallel celebration in Las Vegas drew more than 10,000 attendees. Both events were considered a success in the end, in the sense that no one died, and attendees had fun. Heres how Storm Area 51 inspired countless memes and what actually went down at Area 51 on Sep. 20, 2019. What is Area 51? Area 51 is a classified testing facility for the U.S. Air Force, built in 1955. As Annie Jacobsen, author of Area 51: An Uncensored History of Americas Top Secret Military Base, told CNN, the base has worked on the development and testing of U-2 reconnaissance planes designed to spy on the Soviet Union, which civilians have often mistaken for U.F.Os. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bases existence was largely kept secret during the Cold War, and President Barack Obama was the first U.S. President to publicly acknowledge its existence in 2013, as part of a joke in a speech at the Kennedy Center. How Storm Area 51 went viral Matty Roberts, who created the Storm Area 51 Facebook event. Netflix Roberts was a 20-year-old mall employee living in Bakersfield, California, when he stumbled upon a Joe Rogan interview with someone who worked at Area 51. Roberts wondered why Area 51 was so guardedcould the government be hiding something? He had a Facebook account with 40 followers where he posted memes, satire, and other random thoughts, and during a bout of insomnia one night, he created a public Facebook event called Storm Area 51 for 3 a.m. in three months with the tagline They cant stop all of us. It just seemed like a hilarious idea to me, Roberts says in the doc. I didnt think itd go anywhere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he woke up the next morning, thousands had already RSVP-ed to the event. Within a month, over a million people RSVP-ed as attending, and the people were making alien memes for the event. Roberts had a blast doing television interviews, saying he created it as a joke while playing video games. I felt like I was standing on the doorstep of fame, and all you really had to do was ring the doorbell, Roberts says in the doc. Roberts enlisted the help of a promoter known as Disco Donnie to help turn the Facebook event into a proper festival in Rachel, the closest town to Area 51. It was dubbed Alienstocka play on the famous 1969 Woodstock music festival. But it was a mission impossible type of situation; the area around Area 51 was all desert, and everything would have to be shipped in. The logistics became too overwhelming for Roberts. As he put it, I cant have my name associated with something that could be a Fyre Fest 2.0. He and Disco Donnie shifted to planning an Area 51 celebration in Las Vegas and left any logistics in the Rachel area up to local business owners who were ticked off and felt abandoned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But many people did show up in the Rachel, Nevada, area on Sep. 20, 2019. The scene at Area 51 In the walk-up to the event, YouTubers had been going to Area 51 to stalk the bus that took employees into the base, streaming the scene for their channels. The military spent an estimated $11 million safeguarding Area 51 as part of the largest defense in the bases history. Authorities were expecting people to start running towards the base at 3 a.m. in the morning. People did run towards the gate, but they ended up stopping before it and taking photos. In the end, a few hundred peoplecompared to the 3.5 million expectedflocked to the Rachel area as an excuse to dance and dress up as sexy aliens. Social media influencers livestreamed the action, and more tuned into those livestreams than attended the event. The running joke was that there were more porta-potties than people. A local sheriff did pull over a guy en route to the event with multiple weapons in his car and seized the weapons. However, overall, the crowd at Area 51 was peacefulboisterous, but not violent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Footage of the event in real time shows a social media influencer known as Unicole Unicron leading a prayer for aliens. In the doc, she says she considered the event a success, explaining, I felt like the aliens were dancing with us. Roberts says in the doc that the scene near Area 51 looked kinda cool and what he originally had in mind for the event. He went back to working at a mall and looks back on his 15 minutes of fame as the most surreal and exciting moment of my life. Write to Olivia B. Waxman at olivia.waxman@time.com. Japanese director Kawase Naomis drama Yakushimas Illusion (LIllusion de Yakushima), starring Vicky Krieps, will world premiere at the upcoming Locarno Film Festival as a late addition to the competition. Naomi, who is Japans best-known female film director, has been keeping a relatively low profile on the international festival circuit since 2022, when she was accused of bullying her company staff and assaulting a member of her film crew. The issue was resolved out of court. More from Variety Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yakushimas Illusion, which is Naomis first feature since her 2020 adoption drama True Mothers, is the tale of Corry, a French coordinator of pediatric heart transplants played by Krieps who is sent to Japan where organ donation remains taboo. As she fights to save a young boy, her partner Jin, a photographer from Yakushima, suddenly vanishes. He becomes a Johatsu, as the Japanese call the 80,000 people who disappear overnight each year. Corry faces a double ordeal: saving a child while coping with the loss of the man she loves, says the provided synopsis. When I make a movie, I follow an invisible thread one woven into the larger tapestry of dreams, Krieps said in a statement. This particular thread led me deep into the ancient forests of Yakushima and back into the gentle heart of childhood. I walked the delicate line between ghosts and reality, drawn by the mystery of love. Krieps is expected to make the trek to promote the film in Locarno, where it will launch on Aug. 15. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Locarno Film Festival, which is Europes indie cinema temple, will run Aug. 6-16. Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Antique shopping can be one of the most enjoyable parts of a trip. However, antique shops can be a bit of a roulette wheel, you never know what you're going to get. And, while that might might be part of the fun for some, wouldn't you just want to know what are the best ones to go to? Luckily, HGTV has released a list of the best antique stores in 48 states and highlighted three places to shop in Vermont that antique afficionados may want to check out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Let these cant-miss antique and vintage destinations inspire your next road trip; your cars back seats fold down, right?" HGTV said. Here are the best antique stores in Vermont, according to HGTV. HGTV said that you can find two of the best antique stores in Vermont in Burlington. HGTV's best antique stores in Vermont HGTV said that Anjou and the Little Pear, Barge Canal Market and the Vermont Antique Mall are the best places to shop for antiques because they each have something to offer each type of antique-seeker. Here's what HGTV said about Vermont's best places to antique: "Vermonts secondhand vendors have offerings for those who prefer to outsource their scavenging and those who love the drama of an unexpected find, explains Vermont designer Lauren Miles. In this sun-dappled dining space, she perched an eye-catching vintage vase on the table and filled the built-in shelves with an array of secondhand treasures." Anjou and the Little Pear The consignment shop Anjou and the Little Pear is perfect for those wanting a semi-exclusive and curated look at some mid-century modern goods, Miles said. It's located at 53 Main St. in Burlington, Vermont. Barge Canal Market According to HGTV, in the Burlington arts district, Miles recommends Barge Canal Market, as they do a great job curating vignettes so customers can picture pieces in their own home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Vermont designer then said to HGTV that the Barge Canal Market's goods are shown in an ordered manner, unlike other shops that tend to fill their halls without regard for organization. You can find this antique market at 377 Pine St. in Burlington, Vermont. Vermont Antique Mall If you're looking for a shop to fully immerse and lose yourself in, the HGTV expert for Vermont antiquing said that Vermont Antique Mall is your best bet, expounding that there are two packed floors of vintage wares for the average shopper to peruse. You can find Vermont Antique Mall at 5573 Woodstock Road in Quechee, Vermont. Rin Velasco is a trending reporter. She can be reached at rvelasco@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: HGTV 's favorite antique stores in Vermont You could say that Julia Casey and Micaela Capozzo were fated to end up together: The two were randomly paired as lab partners during their first semester of graduate school at the University of Vermont in 2019, and their friendship grew as they spent time together pursuing their Doctorates in Physical Therapy. Halfway through the program, their dynamic shifted. Julia bought Micaela a drink at a local bar and the rest was history. It was like a switch flipped in that little bar and we both knew that we were each others person, Julia says. We both had such a sure sense of knowing and we were absolutely inseparable from that day. Julia proposed first during a rainy morning hike at Lake Minnetonka in Banff National Park in June of 2023. A month later, Micaela popped the question in return on a date at Monteluce Winery in Dahlonega, Georgia, with a custom crossword puzzle. Choosing their wedding venue was easy. They decided to tie the knot on Julia's family's property in Stowe, Vermont. "Micaela and I met and fell in love in Vermont, so we knew we wanted to get married there, Julia says. Vermont is such a special place for us, and having gotten married on the property makes it that much more special. They set the date for August 24, 2024, and invited 140 guests to join them for an earthy, natural celebration inspired by an elegant Italian villa planned by Lindsey Leichthammer Events. Read on to see the details of their unforgettable celebration, from parasol umbrellas at the ceremony to a family-style dinner reception in photos by Amanda Young. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: How to Host Your Wedding at Home Photo by Amanda Young The couple worked with Rachel Browdy at RH Design House on their wedding invitations and day-of paper goods. Their invite suite was printed on a creamy off-white cardstock with sage green calligraphy-style script. The brides added custom wax seals stamped with their initials and tucked everything into sage envelopes finished with an illustrated envelope liner. Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the morning of their wedding day, Julia and Micaela met for a first look, which was one of their favorite moments of the entire day. We wanted to do a first look so we could be really intentional and present seeing each other for the first time, Julia says. We chose to read our private vows during this time and it was incredibly special. The brides admit that they were both surprised by the dresses their partner chose. Julia wore an Ines di Santo sheath wedding dress with a halter neckline, plunging keyhole, and illusion back. I thought I loved the very first dress I had tried on, but when I tried on the dress I ended up picking, everything else seemed to pale in comparison, and I knew this was the one, she says. She finished her look with her moms pearl Tiffany earrings and bracelet and a natural makeup look. Micaela wore an A-line wedding dress from Paloma Blanca with a long train. She customized the dress with buttons down the back and added a cathedral-length raw hemmed veil. I loved the idea of a long train with an even longer veil for a big wow moment, she says. The bottom of my dress got very muddy but it makes me smile to look back on because it shows how much fun I had on my wedding day. She styled her bridal look with Badgley Mischka heels and her moms earrings. Julia had surprised me with matching Nikes with our wedding date on the back, and we changed into them after the ceremony! Micaela adds. She added hair extensions to achieve voluminous curls and asked her makeup artist for an elevated look for the day. Related: Looking for Your Own Wedding Dress? Shop at a BRIDES Top Tier Bridal Salon Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The couples outdoor ceremony featured views of Mt. Mansfield as their backdrop. Wooden chairs were set up for guests facing a grounded ceremony arch of white, cream, and pink florals. For relief from the sun, umbrellas were added to the space and guests were given woven fans and white parasols. Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Julia and her dad walked down the aisle to an electric violinists live rendition of Shania Twains Youre Still the One. Then, Micaela and her dad entered to Tuesdays by Jake Scott. Julias sister, Amelia, officiated the ceremony. The couple exchanged personal vows they wrote for each other, including not just reasons we love each other, but promises that we plan on keeping to each other, Julia says. Photo by Amanda Young The newlyweds celebrated back up the aisle to "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole. Guests were given paper cones made from their invitation stationery filled with flower petals to toss during the recessional. Related: Our 5 Favorite Eco-Friendly Wedding-Exit Toss Ideas Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo by Amanda Young The couple chose a sailcloth tent for their reception, and its entrance was decorated with greenery, potted plants, lanterns, ground florals, and barrels displaying pots and organic floral arrangements. Guests found their seating assignments on escort cards that were displayed in faux wooden planters filled with moss. Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young With an elegant Italian villa as their inspiration, the brides and their planner decided to decorate the tent with hanging pendant lamps, wooden flooring in a natural oak shade, and a checkered dance floor. The tents structural poles were strategically decorated with branches to look like trees in the center of the space. The seating chart was probably the hardest part of our planning process, Julia says. We had a mix of small round tables, large round tables, small rectangle tables, and large rectangle tables. We loved this look but it did require a lot of time and attention to the seating chart. Lounge areas were also interspersed throughout the space, and they incorporated various textures, from soft couches to woven chairs and stone accent tables. Photo by Amanda Young Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young While some tables were dressed in floor-length white linens, others were simply topped with gauzy runners. Each tablescape featured blush and ivory taper candles in textured glass hurricanes, various neutral-hued floral centerpieces in stone vessels, and crystal glassware. Rachel Browdy with RH Design created linen menus for us and hand calligraphed stone tiles for place cards, Micaela says. Photo by Amanda Young Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo by Amanda Young Julia and Micaela made sure espresso martinis were flowing all night, and they served two other signature cocktails, too: a Mexican Mule and a Maple Old-Fashioned. "Our favorite drink to make at home or order when we go out is a Mexican Mule and we wanted to have an additional drink for our brothers and dads, as they all enjoy a good maple old fashioned, Julia explains. Photo by Amanda Young Julia and Micaela like to try a little of everything when they dine out, so they chose to serve a family-style dinner that allowed guests to graze. Family members and friends enjoyed main dishes of beef sirloin, slow roasted salmon, and roasted chicken. I know everyone talks about not getting a chance to eat on your wedding day but Micaela and I made sure we ate! Julia laughs. It was absolutely incredible. Photo by Amanda Young The couple shared a choreographed first dance in front of their guests to Filmores "Other Girl." They spent the month before the wedding practicing their pre-planned moves with a teacher. We were nervous about it but knew it would be fun no matter what, Julia says. After their first look, they snuck into the tent for a practice run. Micaela and I got to run through our entire dance with the band playing our song, and just us in the tent, Julia says. Its something we will never forget. Julia had a father-daughter to Will Dempseys Best Parts of Me and Micaela shared a dance with her dad to Riley Roths When God Made You My Father." Photo by Amanda Young Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo by Amanda Young Photo by Amanda Young The newlyweds cut into a three-tiered wedding cake decorated with with fresh flowers, which features layers of gluten-free triple chocolate salted caramel cake with vanilla buttercream. Guests also enjoyed a variety of small desserts decorated with cutouts of the couple, including strawberry shortcake in a jar, mini blueberry hand pies, chocolate chip cookies, and donuts. For late-night snacks, the couple had a soft pretzel station, a pizza station, and pommes frites. This was a great way to wrap up the night, with our guests walking around eating pizza and pretzels, Julia says. We also hired Shy Guy Gelato, which was a big hit! Photo by Amanda Young Julia and Micaela spent their honeymoon traveling through Greece. To couples planning their wedding, they recommend soaking it all in. Our piece of advice is as much as it is difficult, try not to stress and enjoy every single minute of this process!" they say. Real Weddings Credits Photographer Amanda Young Photography Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Planning and Design Lindsey Leichthammer Makeup Elizabeth England Studios Flowers Clayton Floral Invitations and Paper Products RH Design Music Generation Events Catering Vermont Farms Catering Cake Cronin Cakes & Sweets Gelato Shy Guy Gelato Rentals Vermont Tent Company, Kadeema Lighting Griffin and Griffin Lighting Videographer Matt Garza of New England Creative Up Next: The Complete Guide to Planning a Wedding Read the original article on Brides Indian paper and packaging board manufacturer JK Paper has reported a continuous decline in profit for the eighth consecutive quarter. The company's consolidated net profit for the quarter ending 30 June saw a nearly 42% year-on-year drop to Rs812.3m ($9.3m). It reported gross revenues from operations of Rs14.71bn. The company also disclosed its strategic move to acquire a 72% stake in Borkar Packaging for Rs2.35bn. This acquisition comes at a time when domestic paper manufacturers, including JK Paper, are grappling with the dual challenge of escalating wood costs and competition from lower-priced imports. JK Paper said: Lower volume and sales realisation due to cheap imports with continued high wood cost have adversely impacted performance. Sirpur Paper Mills also had annual planned shut during the quarter. The company's net revenue from operations also witnessed a slight decline of 2.3% to Rs16.74bn while raw material costs surged by 9.2%, reported Reuters. In response to the country's industry's concerns, India has initiated antidumping investigations into imports of paperboard from countries such as Indonesia, Chile, and China. These imports have reportedly been affecting the local market, where paperboard is a crucial material for packaging consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. JK Paper's acquisition of Borkar Packaging is a strategic move to strengthen its position in the packaging sector. Borkar, which counts major consumer conglomerates such as Unilever and Nestle among its clients, operates factories in eight locations across India. With this acquisition, JK Paper aims to become one of the top three players in the folding cartons segment of the packaging industry. "JK Paper to acquire Borkar Packaging amid profit decline" was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand. For the tenth year in a row, more than $1 billion has been raised to support Georgia students through the HOPE Scholarship and Pre-K programs. The Georgia Lottery announced it raised $1,471,352,000 for the states HOPE Scholarship and Pre-K programs this year. The funds raised by the Georgia Lottery are allocated specifically to the HOPE Scholarship and Georgias Pre-K Program. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The HOPE Scholarship pays a significant portion of college tuition for students who can maintain a 3.0, or B-average, GPA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since its beginning, the lottery has contributed over $29.8 billion to these programs, benefiting millions of students and young children. TRENDING STORIES: Ten successive years of billion-dollar returns to education in Georgia is an achievement in which we can all take great pride, said Georgia Lottery President and CEO Gretchen Corbin. This milestone represents a decade of tremendous impact throughout Georgia, and we are grateful for the support we have received over the years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 2.25 million students have benefited from the HOPE Scholarship, and over 2.2 million 4-year-olds have attended the statewide, voluntary prekindergarten program. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The Brief A fatal stabbing occurred this morning in River Oaks, leaving one male dead. Police determined the incident was isolated and involved individuals in a domestic relationship; no arrests have been made. The names of those involved are being withheld until the investigation is complete and family is notified. RIVER OAKS, Texas - The River Oaks Police Department is investigating a fatal stabbing that occurred around 6:00 a.m. on July 28th, 2025 in the 4600 block of Barbara Rd. What we know At 6:07AM, officers were dispatched to a male person that was bleeding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon arrival, officers located a male lying in the parking lot with a stab wound. The male was later pronounced deceased at the scene. A female was on scene and questioned about her involvement in the fatality. Over the course of the investigation, detectives determined the parties involved were in a domestic relationship and this was an isolated incident. The female was cooperative with the investigation and there were no arrests made at the time. What's next The names of those involved will not be available until the investigation is carried out and the deceased persons next of kin are notified by the Tarrant County Medical Examiners Office. What you can do Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact the River Oaks Police Department at 817-626-1991 or CID@riveroakspd.com. The Source Information in this article was provided by the River Oaks Police Department. HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) A male victim was shot multiple times early Tuesday morning inside his home in the Green Sea area of Horry County, a police report said. It happened at about 2:25 a.m. at the home on Tulip Grove Road. The victim was taken to the hospital with gunshot wounds to his abdomen, left arm and left leg, the report said. No arrests have been made, and no information about the victims condition or other details about the investigation was immediately available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * * * Dennis Bright is the Digital Executive Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. Workplace violence is taking a toll on healthcare workers. Its the reason some are leaving the profession, while others are changing disciplines and workplace settings in search of a safer alternative. In our exclusive investigation, Code Blue, 11 Investigates uncovered attacks on healthcare workers, heard from hundreds of workers about their experiences with violence and talked to lawmakers who are being urged to do more to harden medical facilities and protect employees. Now, a first-of-its-kind statewide survey is revealing how frequently attacks are happening to healthcare workers and how the problem is impacting the workplace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The problem doesnt only put healthcare workers at risk, either. Patients are also vulnerable. 11 Investigates has uncovered multiple violent incidents where patients intervened, coming to the aid of workers who were being attacked. Its scary. Its a scary situation, said Tammy May, president of the PASNAP Butler chapter. May is a nurse in Butler Memorial Hospitals intensive care unit and volunteers in her union role. Some attacks against healthcare workers have been widely publicized this year. In April, police say a man in State College tried to rape two nurses at Mount Nittany Medical Center. Court documents say he pulled one nurse by the hair, dragging her into his room and attempt to pull her pants down, then attacked another who tried to help and successfully pulled her pants down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It wasnt until Monday that employees started finding out on Facebook and on the news, said Erica Cornell, a travel nurse who was working at the hospital at the time of the attack. She said many of her colleagues were furious that they did not hear about the assaults from their employer first. Other assaults are not publicized. 11 Investigates sat down with nurse Donna Ruhl, who suffered a traumatic brain injury after she was attacked by a patient. Months later, she continues undergoing intensive treatment, trying to rehabilitate her vision and return to work. She admits she is hesitant to go back to a similar nursing job. I dont think Ill ever be the same, Ruhl said. I dont think Ill ever trust a patient. In a tragic attack that made national headlines, a police officer died and several hospital employees were shot when a patients family member went to a York hospital in February and held employees hostage in the ICU. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think you can ever recover from something like that, said Annale Yobbi. Its a gut punch. Yobbi has been a LifeFlight nurse with Allegheny General Hospital for 33 years. She also co-chairs the hospitals workplace violence committee. Its made up of hospital security, leaders and staff members. She said her hospital has been proactive, adding weapons detection systems and even developing an 8-hour crisis prevention course to teach de-escalation. I want to do what I can to help and protect them, Yobbi said in an emotional interview. I have a lot of mama bear when it comes to stuff like this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 11 Investigates exclusively surveyed health care workers across Pennsylvania and received more than 500 responses. The respondents include doctors, nurses, technicians and aides. Forty percent work in urban settings. Thirty-three percent said they work in suburban areas, and 27 percent work in rural areas. Eighty-nine percent said they had experienced physical violence by a patient. More than half of those people, or 55 percent, said they were injured in the incident(s). Of those surveyed, 93 percent said they felt afraid at work due to violence concerns at least sometimes. Eighteen percent of those surveyed said they felt afraid at work most days or every day. The survey found 64 percent of healthcare workers surveyed said they have had at least one physically violent encounter, with a patient or visitor, within the last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It happens on the daily, May said. I still think workplace violence is underreported. May said there has been an issue with patients hurting nurses for as long as shes been in the profession, over thirty years. But she says the incidents are becoming more common and are often more violent than what shes witnessed in the past. She believes the younger generation of nurses is less tolerating of violence, and that group is empowering more senior nurses to speak up and push back. There is growing frustration statewide with how employers are responding to violence concerns in the healthcare industry. Ninety-two of the survey respondents said their employer is not doing enough to prevent violence. In Butler, those frustrations reached a breaking point in the spring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nurses union did an informational picket and voted to authorize a strike over workplace violence concerns. Our wages werent our primary focus We wanted safety and security, May said. Those nurses got what they asked for, including a commitment for more metal detectors and guards in the emergency room. Still, the attacks in patient rooms persist. In just the last few weeks, nurses have been hit, pushed, spit on and punched. Criminal charges have been filed in some of the attacks. Considering that, it is no surprise that 50 percent of the men and women who responded to the survey said they have considered leaving healthcare due to violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fifty percent wanting to leave doesnt surprise me, May said. But yeah, I think for the average person, those numbers are going to seem astounding. So far, all of the hospitals and hospital systems contacted for this ongoing investigation have said safety is a top priority. None have agreed to an interview on the topic. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW JEANERETTE, La. (KLFY) Today, Louisiana State Police was notified that a juvenile succumbed to their injuries from a crash that occurred in Iberia Parish. On July 24, just before 4 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police began investigating a serious injury crash involving a juvenile pedestrian on LA 674 near the intersection of Whitney Drive in Iberia Parish. Officials said the crash ultimately claimed the life of 11-year-old Nahelie Sinitiere of Jeanerette. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said an investigation revealed that Sinitiere was attempting to cross LA 674 from the eastbound shoulder. At the same time, a 2007 Honda Civic was traveling east on LA 674. For reason still under investigation, Sinitiere entered the eastbound lane and was struck by the Honda. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest Sinitiere was transported to a nearby hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the Honda was properly restrained and not injured. Officials said the driver of the Honda was not suspected of being impaired and voluntarily provided a breath sample, which showed no alcohol was detected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This crash remains under investigation. Latest news Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com. A 13-year-old boy was seriously injured in a boating accident over the weekend on Blue Marsh Lake. The accident happened about 1:30 p.m. Saturday. According to initial reports, the youth was struck by a boat while on a personal watercraft. Dispatches from the scene indicated he was taken ashore at the State Hill Boat Launch in Lower Heidelberg Township. Local police, personnel from the Army Corps of Engineers park office and medical personnel responded. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is investigating. Further information was unavailable Monday. NEED TO KNOW 13-year-old Jamyla Norwood went missing on Monday, July 28, in Milwaukee Norwood's mother believes the girl is in danger following a phone call in which she claimed to hear someone threatening to beat up her daughter The teen's mother also received text messages alleging her daughter is dead A teenage girl from Milwaukee is missing following a disturbing phone call received by her mother. According to authorities, 13-year-old Jamyla Norwood has not spoken with her family since Monday, July 28, around 3:26 p.m. local time. The police are describing her as a critically missing person, meaning she is believed to be in danger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to local radio station WTMJ and Fox affiliate WITI, Norwoods mother was speaking to her on the phone when she heard a female voice in the background shouting that she would beat Jamyla and push her down the stairs. Per the outlets, police said the phone disconnected and no one has heard from Norwood since then. Following the call, the teen's mother received text messages from an unknown number claiming her daughter is dead. "The Milwaukee Police Department is seeking the publics assistance in locating a critical missing person, Jamyla NORWOOD," a statement obtained by PEOPLE from Milwaukee Police Department read. "Jamyla was last in contact with her family the afternoon of Monday, July 28th, 2025." The statement added that Norwood was last "believed to be in the area of N. 24th St. and W. Burleigh St." in Milwaukee. Milwaukee Police Department Jamyla Norwood Jamyla Norwood According to WITI, the teenagers mother believes her daughters life is at risk. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Noorwood is described as Black, standing at 53" and weighing around 120 pounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to authorities, she was wearing a pink bonnet, black T-shirt, blue jean pants and yellow and black shoes when she was last seen. Police also stated she didn't have any money for transportation and is therefore likely to be on foot. Anyone with information or sightings of Norwood is asked to contact the Milwaukee Police Department District 5 at 414-935-7252. According to a previous report by WITI, Norwood previously went missing in October 2024. However, she was later found safe. Read the original article on People ALLIANCE, Ohio (WJW) Police in Alliance confirmed to Fox 8 News that a 19-year-old woman possibly abducted Tuesday morning has been located. Teen shot in the ankle at Akron bus stop According to a since-deleted post on the departments Facebook page, the woman texted her out-of-state boyfriend about a man she met online. She said the man was trying to take her phone away after they met up to smoke together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police ask for help identifying Save A Lot shooting suspect Police said the boyfriend tried to call the woman but someone took her phone and hung up. Police did not say where the woman was located, but did say she was found safe. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. The Brief Curtis Jamel, of Stockton, and Crosley Stanley, of San Francisco, were arrested in connection with the theft. It unfolded Sunday at a Gucci store at the San Francisco Premium Outlets, which is located in Livermore. The suspects allegedly made off with $28,000 worth of handbags. LIVERMORE, Calif. - Two 19-year-olds were arrested after stealing $28,000 worth of handbags from a Gucci outlet store in Livermore, according to police. Handbag heist What we know The incident unfolded around 4:50 p.m. Sunday at the San Francisco Premium Outlets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said the suspects entered the Gucci store and grabbed several purses from merchandise racks before fleeing. Video posted on social media showed multiple suspects running out of the store. Police said the group crashed through mall barriers while escaping, causing major property damage. Officers later tracked the suspects to San Francisco, where they recovered the stolen handbags and a firearm. Curtis Jamel, of Stockton, and Crosley Stanley, of San Francisco, were arrested in connection with the theft. The Source Livermore Police Department SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) Two Customs and Border Protection officers have pleaded guilty to allowing drugs to enter the U.S. through their inspection lanes, authorities said. According to the U.S. attorneys office, Jesse Clark Garcia, 37, of San Diego and Diego Bonillo, 30, of Chula Vista conspired with members of a drug trafficking organization based in Mexico to allow vehicles transporting narcotics to enter the country without being inspected. Mexican Mafia members arrested in federal sweep across Southern California Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garcia worked at the Tecate Port of Entry while Bonillo worked at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry. They would notify the organization about the lane they were assigned to and what time by using a secret emoji-based code, the attorneys office stated. The organization would then send the vehicles through those lanes with the knowledge that neither of the two officers would inspect them. Garcia pleaded guilty on July 8 to nine counts including conspiracy to import controlled substances and importation of cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl. Bonillo pleaded guilty on July 28 to three counts of the indictment, including conspiracy to import controlled substances and importation of fentanyl and heroin. He admitted to allowing at least 75 kilograms of fentanyl, 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine and more than 1 kilogram of heroin into the U.S. through his inspection lane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both defendants used the profits they gained from their involvement in the scheme to fund domestic and international trips as well as buy luxury items and attempt to purchase properties in Mexico, authorities stated. The sentencings for Garcia and Bonillo are scheduled for Sept. 26 and Nov. 7, respectively. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. By Mimosa Spencer and Tassilo Hummel PARIS (Reuters) -Gucci owner Kering, reported on Tuesday a 15% drop in quarterly revenues, falling short of market expectations, with its finance chief flagging further price hikes in the United States to counter tariffs. Sales in the second quarter totalled 3.7 billion euros ($4.3 billion), down 15% on a comparable basis, missing a Visible Alpha consensus estimate among analysts for a 13% drop cited by UBS. Gucci, which accounts for the bulk of group profits, reported sales of 1.46 billion euros, down 25% year on year. The French group controlled by the billionaire Pinault family is facing pressure from investors to revive its fortunes after two years of falling sales and reduce its pile of debt. Kering's net debt was 9.5 billion euros as of June, down from 10.5 billion at the end of last year largely due to real estate sales. The group also further reduced its store network and now plans to close up to a net 80 stores by the end of 2025. Having seen its shares lose around 60% of their value over the last 24 months, Kering said last month it had hired former Renault CEO Luca de Meo as its next chief executive from September. The Italian will face the challenge of restructuring the group as the luxury sector is mired in a slump, caused in part by weak demand in China and bouts of inflation weighing on spending elsewhere. "We have already started working with him, so we can hit the ground running", Armelle Poulou, Kering's finance chief, said on an earnings call. A newly-agreed 15% tariff rate on all European Union exports to the United States, a key market where Kering makes over 20% of its sales, will add to headwinds. "The tariff impact is perfectly manageable for us", said Poulou. Kering's brands, which also include Saint Laurent and smaller labels Bottega Veneta and Balenciaga, have already raised prices globally and more specifically in the United States, where Poulou said the company was taking a measured approach, with a close eye on consumer sentiment. "There could be a second wave of price adjustments in the autumn", she said. (Reporting by Tassilo Hummel. Editing by Mimosa Spencer and Mark Potter) UPDATE: An updated version of this story can be found here. *** MEMPHIS, Tenn. Two people were injured after a shooting Monday night, Memphis Police confirm. Officers say the two gunshot victims arrived at Regional One Hospital around 9:40 p.m. It is still unclear where the shooting took place or who fired the shots. This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have any information that could help police, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Editor's note: The article was updated with the latest casualty figures. Russia launched an attack against the western part of Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on July 29, killing three people, including a pregnant woman, and injuring 22 others, authorities reported. The strike targeted the Kamianske district, damaging an uninhabited three-story building and nearby medical facilities, including a maternity hospital and a hospital ward, according to officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fatalities included a 23-year-old pregnant woman named Diana, President Volodymyr Zelensky later confirmed. The injured victims include 10 nurses and other medical workers. At least two people remain in critical condition, including one medical specialist and another pregnant woman, Governor Serhii Lysak said. Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, a region in central-eastern Ukraine, is regularly targeted in Russian aerial and artillery attacks, often resulting in civilian casualties. Recent weeks saw Russia escalate its strikes across Ukraine, launching record numbers of drones and missiles across the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Ukraine war latest: I already know the answer Trump to shorten Ukraine deadline for Putin to 1012 days Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The cases of prison inmatesoriginally announced by the Nevada Department of Corrections merely as deathsare now part of separate homicide investigations, the 8 News Now Investigators have learned. The inmates were killed 10 days apart inside High Desert State Prison outside of Las Vegas. Jacob Herman, 35, and Jordan Canteberry, 34, were killed 10 days apart inside High Desert State Prison outside of Las Vegas. (Department of Corrections) Jordan Canteberry, 34, died on July 26, according to the department. He began serving a 12-to-30-month sentence for robbery and possession of a firearm by an ex-felon in June, according to records. His robbery charge stemmed from a December 2024 robbery, records show. Canteberry agreed to a plea deal in a second case after he was initially charged with three gun crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jacob Herman, 35, died on July 16, according to the department. Herman was serving a 12-to-36-month sentence for larceny from a person. Herman was initially charged with robbery, agreed to a plea deal, and received a suspended sentence in Clark County, according to court records. A judge sent him to prison in May 2024 for violating the terms of probation, records show. The Clark County Coroners office said Canteberry died of multiple stab wounds and his death was ruled a homicide. Hermans cause and manner of death are pending. High Desert State Prison is a maximum-security prison facility located near Indian Springs, which is approximately a 45-minute drive north of Las Vegas. The facility transitioned from a medium-security prison last year. Two thousand inmates, including Nevadas death row population, were transferred from Ely State Prison, located nearly 300 miles north of Indian Springs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Nevada Department of Corrections announced the deaths of both inmates in press releases, but did not include that the inmates were killed in those press releases. The department confirmed that both cases are suspected homicides after the 8 News Now Investigators inquired. To reach investigative reporter Vanessa Murphy, email vmurphy@8newsnow.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. CHICAGO Two men were shot outside a gas station on the citys Near West Side. The shooting happened around 10:40 p.m. Monday on the 10-100 block of North Western Avenue. According to police, a 24-year-old man and a 49-year-old man were standing near a Shell gas station when they were shot at by someone who was traveling in a vehicle. The 24-year-old man was struck on the legs and also in the head. He was transported to Stroger in critical condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors: Man charged with shooting and killing daughter-in-law outside Schaumburg hotel planned to murder her a week ago The 49-year-old man was shot in the abdomen and buttocks and was also transported to Stroger Hospital in fair condition. There is no one in custody and Area Three Detectives are investigating. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. A 27-year-old man wearing body armor and carrying a high-powered M4 rifle shot and killed four people, including an off-duty police officer working security in a Midtown Manhattan office building, officials said during a press conference Monday evening. A fifth victim was left critically injured in the shooting, officials said. The incident occurred just before 6:30 p.m. in a building located at 345 Park Ave. and 52nd Street, which contains the headquarters for the investment company Blackstone and the National Football League, sources told ABC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unclear if those companies, or any company in the building, were tied to the shooting. After apparently barricading himself on the 33rd floor, the suspect, who was identified as Las Vegas resident Shane Devon Tamura, was found dead from what is believed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch. ABC News - PHOTO: A police officer and a civilian were shot in Midtown Manhattan on Monday by a suspect who fled into an office building, police sources told ABC News. During a press conference on Monday evening, Tisch said preliminary information suggests the suspect traveled cross-country by car from Las Vegas before arriving in New York City. Tamura had a license to carry a concealed weapon in the state of Nevada. "We believe this to be a lone shooter," Tisch said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man emerged from a double-parked BMW in front of the office building and entered the lobby alone and immediately opened fire on an NYPD officer and sprayed the lobby with bullets, Tisch said. MORE: Witness recounts Midtown Manhattan office building shooting: 'I texted my parents that I loved them' He made his way to the elevator bank, where he shot a security guard, Tisch said. He then went up to the 33rd floor, where he shot another person before shooting himself in the chest, she added. Officers searched the suspect's vehicle after the shooting, where they found a rifle case with rounds, a loaded revolver, ammunition and magazines, a backpack "and medication prescribed to Mr. Tamura, Tisch said. The motive is currently under investigation, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said earlier on Monday. ABC News - PHOTO: A man wearing body armor and carrying a high-powered rifle shot and killed four people, including an off-duty police officer working security in a Midtown Manhattan office building, sources told ABC News. A witness inside the Midtown office building at the time of the shooting detailed to ABC News what it was like at the scene as colleagues hid in lockdown, unsure of what was unfolding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We heard multiple shots go off in quick succession from the first floor, and a lot of us just rushed into the room," Jessica Chen said, adding that she was on the second floor of the building watching a presentation with about 150 other people when the shooting started. "Some went out in the back door, out onto the street. Other people, including me, we ran into the conference room and then eventually barricaded the tables across the doors and just stayed still," Chen said. "I texted my parents, 'I love them,'" Chen said. "Nothing can describe that feeling." ABC News - PHOTO: Employees barricaded a door on the 32nd floor of the 345 Park Ave. building during the shooting. Chen went on to say that she recalled doing active shooter drills in school and said she often wondered what she would do in this kind of scenario. "It's unfortunate that all Americans could think this through," Chen said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: 3 dead, several injured in shooting outside casino in Reno: Police FBI New York Field Office management personnel and agents responded "to provide support at the active crime scene in Manhattan," Bongino said on X. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said she has been briefed on the situation. KPMG, an accounting firm that also has offices in the building, released a statement after the shooting, saying, "Our hearts go out to the victims of this horrific act and their families." "We are incredibly grateful for the bravery of building security and law enforcement," the company said. ABC News' Mark Crudele and Katherine Faulders contributed to this report. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) Two people were taken to the hospital after a shooting in Baton Rouge on Tuesday, July 29, according to emergency medical services officials. First responders were alerted just after 2:10 a.m. and responded to Belhaven Trace Drive. EMS said the condition of those who were taken to the hospital is unknown at this time. Baton Rouge Police Department units and officers, police tape and a Baton Rouge Fire Department truck were observed at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Louisiana First News contacted BRPD for further details about this shooting. This article will be updated as more information becomes available. Coroner called after pedestrian hit and killed by garbage truck on Airline Highway, officials say Latest News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. NEED TO KNOW Two Massachusetts women have died after a camper exploded at a Maine campground while they were celebrating one of their birthdays The victims have been identified as Alesia Ventura-Large, 58, of Marlborough, and Nancy Pilsch, 57, of Leominster The pair reportedly told first responders they lit a candle to mask what they described as a "garlic smell" inside the camper Two women have died after a camper exploded at a Maine campground while they were celebrating one of their birthdays. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The explosion occurred at the Powder Horn Campground on Cascade Road in Old Orchard Beach around 12:30 p.m. local time on Saturday, July 26, according to a news release from the Maine State Fire Marshal. Crews with Old Orchard Beach Fire and EMS who responded to the scene found two women with severe burn injuries, fire officials said. The two women, who were from Massachusetts, were rushed to Maine Medical Center in Portland, where they died on Sunday, July 27, the Maine State Fire Marshal said in a second update. The victims have been identified by the state fire marshal as Alesia Ventura-Large, 58, of Marlborough, and Nancy Pilsch, 57, of Leominster. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ventura-Large's husband said the pair was in Maine to celebrate Pilsch's 58th birthday, which was Monday, July 28, according to ABC affiliate WCVB-TV. The Main State Fire Marshal is still investigating the incident, but initial findings indicate liquid propane gas was seemingly leaking into and beneath the camper prior to the incident, according to fire officials. The gas is believed to have ignited when one of the occupants lit a candle, they added. Officials said the two women told first responders they lit a candle to mask the smell of what they described as a garlic odor inside the camper, according to WCVB-TV and FOX affiliate WFXT. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities also said the gas may have been leaking from a stove inside the camper, noting that a knob on the appliance was found in the on position, WFXT reported. Ventura-Large's husband, John Large, who is a priest, described his late wife as a wonderful woman who was very sensitive, according to CBS affiliate WGME. Alesia, you are a light shining brightly in the night sky, Large said in a tribute to his wife, per WFXT. You lit up every room you ever walked into. And you lit up my life. Officials said there was no gas detector inside the camper at the time of the explosion, according to WCVB-TV and WFXT. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Powder Horn Family Camping Resort acknowledged the incident in a statement shared Monday on its Facebook page. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Dear friends As many of you know, a great tragedy has befallen our Powder Horn community. Sadly, the two guests involved have succumbed to their injuries, the campground said. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families. Read the original article on People NEED TO KNOW Betty Lou Oliver, who just turned 20, had no idea her final day of work would mark the day she earned a Guinness World Record for surviving the longest elevator free fall July 28 marks the 80th anniversary of her record, which still stands Oliver's daughter tells PEOPLE that she stayed away from publicity, living her life in relative obscurity as an Arkansas housewife Betty Lou Olivers last day on the job as an elevator operator for the Empire State Building was one for the history books. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Exactly 80 years later, she still holds the Guinness World Record for surviving the longest-ever elevator free fall a harrowing nearly 1,000-foot plunge straight down in the country's most famous skyscraper. "She was working her last day and would have been off in two hours," her daughter Annie Connally, 78, tells PEOPLE. Connally says her mom never talked much about her experience, but Connally remembers being surprised that Oliver never had any qualms about getting back into elevators despite what she endured on July 28, 1945. "I worked in a Denver high rise and when she came to visit, she just got into the elevator," Connally says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pretty brave after nearly losing her life on a day that started out so filled with promise. The young woman described as "vivacious" by those who knew her at the time had been given gifts and good wishes on her last day on the job. She was going to meet a cousin at the Russian Tea Room after work and had bought a new outfit to meet her husband, Oscar Oliver. He and Betty Lou hadn't seen each other for two years while he served in the Navy during World War II. Then he called on her birthday that July to say he was returning home from duty. Betty Lou reportedly took her job while she waited in New York for Oscar, a U.S. Navy torpedoman, to finish his service overseas. She gave notice so that the two could move back to their hometown of Fort Smith, Ark., to begin their post-war lives. This is where history gets wild: On July 28, 1945, an American B-25 bomber plane flying over New York City took a wrong turn in the fog and crashed into the Empire State Building, then the worlds tallest building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Betty Lou, who had turned 20 a little more than a week earlier, was operating elevator #6 and joyfully singing the "The Saint Louis Blues" when Lt. Col. William F. Smith's plane hit the north side of the building between the 79th and 80th floors. The B-25's wings sheared off, its gasoline tanks exploded and the fire took 40 minutes to extinguish. Dozens died or were injured. What no one knew at the time was the right engine of the plane had smashed into the elevator shaft, crashing down and severing cables on its way. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Bettmann Archive/Getty The hole left in the Empire State Building after the bomber crashed into it in 1945 The hole left in the Empire State Building after the bomber crashed into it in 1945 Betty Lou was badly burned by the blast and fire (Connally says she bore the scars decades later) but the worst was yet to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some accounts say she was then placed into another elevator for evacuation to get medical aid. However, in an interview for the 1977 book The Sky is Falling, Betty Lou told author Arthur Weingarten that after the plane hit the building, she was trapped in the elevator car as it began free falling down, down, down. It's incredible, still, to hear that she didnt die. But she did suffer a broken neck, back and pelvis and two broken legs. "We were told that they thought she had died and they even had a toe tag on her and [she] was given last rites, even though she wasn't Catholic," Connally says now. "A doctor ... tried a new procedure that brought her back." Bettmann Archive/Getty From left: Oscar Oliver with his wife, Betty Lou, after she was able to walk again From left: Oscar Oliver with his wife, Betty Lou, after she was able to walk again In Weingarten's book, he describes how a Catholic priest prayed with Betty Lou after she was recovered from the elevator car by rescue workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Associated Press story from the time reported that the elevator girl fell nearly 80 floors, or approximately 1,000 feet. According to the account, Betty Lou said she was alone in the car and remained fully conscious during her descent. The elevator seemed to stop and shudder for a moment, she said. Then it began plummeting downward. I tried desperately to stop it. Then a flash of fire enveloped me and I raised my left arm to protect my face." The fire was gone in a moment and I tried again to work the controls. I picked up the telephone in the cage and tried to call the starter on the ground floor. Nothing happened," she said. "I started yelling and pounding the floor. She felt as though the car was leaving her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was going down so fast that I just had to hang onto the sides of the elevator to keep from floating, she recalled. The car ultimately crashed against an oil buffer at the bottom of the building a kind of emergency fail-safe meant to stop falling elevators and the buffer's piston smashed through much of it. Except for about eight inches in one corner, where Oliver was standing. Bettmann Archive/Getty Betty Lou Oliver after surviving her elevator free fall Betty Lou Oliver after surviving her elevator free fall She was saved by a miracle, George A Mount, district manager of the Otis Elevator Company, told a reporter at the time. The concrete floor in the bottom of the shaft was crushed like an egg shell. Mount noted then that all six cables attached to the car had snapped and the automatic braking cable was destroyed, too, allowing the car to fall without any braking system at all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The only thing which might have slowed the descent was air pressure in the shaft, he said. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Betty Lou had to be cut from the mangled wreckage of the elevator. She spent about four months in the hospital and a few more at the home of her aunt and uncle, in New York, before returning to Arkansas with her husband about eight months after the accident. Doctors at the time called her recovery a miracle. Connally tells PEOPLE she didn't know her mom had stayed with her aunt and uncle while she healed, but it makes sense since her uncle had helped to get her the job as an elevator operator in the first place. Bettmann Archive/Getty From left, Oscar Oliver, who served in the U.S. Navy as a torpedoman, with wife Betty Lou From left, Oscar Oliver, who served in the U.S. Navy as a torpedoman, with wife Betty Lou An orphan, Betty Lou met husband Oscar at a dance while they were teenagers, Connally says. The couple had two sons and a daughter and seven grandchildren. (Oscar died in 1986 and Betty Lou died 13 years later, at age 74, on Nov. 24, 1999.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The New York Times had sought to interview her in 1970 for the 25th anniversary of the plane crash, which resulted in the deaths of 11 people inside the building, the pilot and two crew members. About 25 other people were injured. The Times wrote that Betty Lou became the closest thing to a popular heroine that the tragedy produced. But she told the paper that she was just plain not interested in talking about it, because publicity just embarrasses me to death. "That sounds like her," Connally says. Read the original article on People The systems meant to protect Americans failed in August 2005 but everyday people and quick-thinking National Guard and military service members rose above the flood waters and proved that small acts of courage can save lives. In order to prevent something [horrible], you have to understand why it happened in the first place, intones a voice in the trailer for National Geographics powerful new documentary series Hurricane Katrina: Race Against Time, now streaming on Hulu and Disney+. From Lightbox, Executive Producer Ryan Coogler, and Oscar-nominated director Traci A. Curry, this five-part series offers the most intimate and comprehensive telling of the Katrina story to date told entirely through the voices of those who lived it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of those voices is that of Shelton Shakespear Alexander, a United States Marine Corps veteran and poet who pressed record on his personal camera as the winds started picking up in Katrinas advance. When the levees broke, he evacuated to the Superdome, where his footage captured what it was like for the most vulnerable people during the deadly hurricane. He showed people how to eat MREs and revealed what it was like during the hours they waited for rescue, and he lifted one another up. I wish more people had a chance to learn survival skills like swimming or preparedness, he shared, reflecting on the senseless lives lost because of a lack of preparation or early warning. They didnt give us a fair warning. We need to do a better job of caring for our elders, our parents, and the secluded. I hated to learn about all the people who passed alone. An aerial view of a broken levee after Hurricane Katrina. (Pond5) Pond5 As the documentary shows, the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina was exacerbated by man-made errors. When the levees broke, eighty percent of the city and ninety-five percent of St. Bernard Parish were flooded, leaving over 100,000 people vulnerable to catastrophe. New Orleans, six feet below sea level and surrounded by multiple bodies of water, was known to be at risk of flooding, which is why Congress authorized the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to overhaul the regions hurricane protection system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet, due to budget cuts and delays, the project was not finished by the time Katrina hit in August 2005. In the immediate aftermath, the federal response was also sluggish. Luckily, quick thinkers in the Coast Guard and other military units acted independently. Sarah Faulkner was a badass Coast Guard Rescue Diver who helped save 40 people in one night, beamed director Traci A. Curry. What was really interesting about the Coast Guards response was that they acted outside of the chain of command, Curry explained. While the rest of the military was tied up in bureaucratic red tape, the Coast Guard could go into action right away. They went straight to New Orleans and got to work, and I thought it was so important to highlight their actions. When asked what Shelton is hoping this documentary will teach audiences, he emphasized the importance of uniting together as people, especially in a time when our country feels particularly divided: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lets focus on coming back together. Being American. Being together. We dont know whos gonna get a wildfire, whos gonna get an earthquake, whos gonna get a storm, whos gonna get a flood. We just need for the sake of humanity its not a political thing, its individual and we need to check our hearts and help out when we can. This five-part series premiered on National Geographic across two nights beginning July 27, 2025. All episodes are streaming starting July 28 on Disney+ and Hulu. atomic veterans atomic echoes blue chalk media World War II Atomic Echoes follows the stories of atomic bomb survivors 80 years after World War II By Shannon Corbeil the fantastic four summary Movies A master summary of every Fantastic Four movie A master summary of every Fantastic Four movie By Shannon Corbeil superman movie Movies A master summary of every Superman movie leading up to James Gunns A master summary of every Superman movie leading up to James Gunns By Shannon Corbeil north korean basketball kim jong un Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sports Adopting North Korean basketball rules would be a literal game-changer for the NBA Adopting North Korean basketball rules would be a literal game-changer for the NBA By Blake Stilwell United States Air Force Lookout Mountain Laboratory. Movies That time Jared Leto bought an Air Force Base That time Jared Leto bought an Air Force Base By Shannon Corbeil NEED TO KNOW A young man has been found dead after he disappeared while paddleboarding in Anchorage, Alaska Officials said that the man wasn't wearing a life jacket and was last seen on a part of the lake that's about 22 feet deep Dive crews used sonar to locate his body in the water A missing paddleboarder has been found dead in Alaska. The incident occurred on DeLong Lake in Anchorage around 6 p.m. local time on Sunday, July 27, according to KTUU and Alaska Public Media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "A beautiful day recreating on Delong Lake turned tragic when a person realized a friend out paddleboarding vanished," the Anchorage Fire Department (AFD) said in a news release. The caller reported that the man, who has not yet been publicly identified, hadn't been seen for about 15 minutes and wasn't wearing a life jacket. Fire department spokeswoman Megan Peters told Alaska Public Media that it was unclear if a life jacket would have saved his life. He was last seen on a part of the lake that is about 22 feet deep, which is where officials found his paddleboard. The Anchorage Fire Department/Facebook A firefighter watches the search for a missing paddle boarder A firefighter watches the search for a missing paddle boarder Divers with Alaska Dive Search Rescue and Recovery Team ultimately found the victim using sonar and made the recovery, according to fire officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As their statement came to an end, officials encouraged everybody visiting Anchorage to "please be safe out there." Sometimes, despite our diligent efforts, not all our incidents have a happy ending, they added. Although the man's name has not yet been released, KTUU reported that he is a 21-year-old student from Romania. A friend wrote on Facebook that the young man was a student visiting Alaska through the Work and Travel program, according to the outlet. The program "brought him joy and peace, Andreea Oprea wrote, according to the Anchorage Daily News. The Anchorage Fire Department/Facebook Crews coordinate the search for a missing paddle boarder Crews coordinate the search for a missing paddle boarder The victims body has since been turned over to the State Medical Examiner, according to KTUU. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. A spokesperson for the Anchorage Police Department (APD) did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment. Read the original article on People Kia Corporation reported a 6.5% rise in revenues year-on-year to a record KRW 29.35 trillion in the second quarter of 2025, driven by strong global demand for its hybrid models, higher average selling prices (ASP) and favourable exchange rates. The South Korean automaker saw its operating profit plunge by over 24% to KRW 2.77 trillion, however, reflecting higher sales incentives and a much tougher international trade environment, following the recent US import tariff hikes. The companys operating margin was still a highly respectable 9.4%. Net profits, including non-controlling interests, fell by 23.3% to KRW 2.27 trillion. Kias global vehicle sales increased by 2.5% to 814,888 units in the second quarter of 2025, driven by a 14% rise in sales of electrified models to 185,000 units. Domestic sales were lifted by the recent launch of the EV4 battery-powered sedan and the Tasman pickup truck, while US sales were helped by strong demand for the Carnival Hybrid MPV and K4 sedan and sales in India were supported by the recent launch of the Syros compact SUV. Kia also reported strong growth in markets in the Middle East and Africa, while sales in Europe declined, in line with weak overall market demand and slowing Sportage uptake ahead of the launch of the Sportage PE, which is scheduled to be unveiled in the third quarter. Outlook Kia said it will continue to adopt flexible strategies to deal with the ongoing global market uncertainties, including maintaining appropriate inventory levels and demand-based production, implementing incentive strategies centered on profitability and customer value. In South Korea, the automaker will continue to focus on expanding sales of hybrid models, including hybrid versions of Sportage, Sorento and Carnival models, as well as expanding its BEV range with the launch of the EV5 and PV5 models. In the US the company will continue to focus on enhancing profitability by increasing the supply of hybrid versions of the Sportage, Sorento and Carnival models, while in Europe it plans to launch the EV4 in the third quarter. In India the company will soon introduce its first full-electric, made-in-India Carens Clavis EV, while also strengthening its dealer network. Kia said it remains committed to completing its full EV lineup by 2026, including rolling out its new EV4, EV5, and EV2 models globally. The company will continue to expand its global presence by offering more hybrid models and entering new segments, including hybrid versions of the Telluride and Seltos SUVs, which will line up alongside a growing range of PBVs and pickup trucks. SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) The West Texas Legislative Summit has once again convened in San Angelo, drawing politicians, industry leaders and other influential figures on the local, state and national levels to the town to discuss the future of West Texas. According to the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce website, the summit began at 7:30 a.m. on July 29 at Angelo State Universitys C.J. Davidson Conference Center and is scheduled to last until 3:45 p.m. The conference marks the 21st West Texas Legislative Summit. The West Texas Legislative Summit is an award-winning event which brings together hundreds of elected officials and business professionals from throughout West Texas, the Chamber of Commerce website states. This event provides a forum for West Texas community representatives to spend a day addressing our common legislative priorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You need to listen: Crowd confronts Pfluger at fiery town hall The event has the overarching theme of From the Ground Up: West Texas Driving American Strength' and will feature discussions on the following topics, as per the Chamber of Commerce website: Powering Progress: West Texas Energy Driving a Global Future Deep Roots and Steadfast Resolve: Agriculture Growing Americas Future At the Heart of It All: Strengthening Rural Health to Sustain Communities From Dirt Roads to Data Streams: Our Region at the Crossroads of Space & Connectivity The conference is hosted by the Chamber of Commerce alongside honorary co-hosts United States Rep. August Pfluger (TX-11), District 28 Texas Sen. Charles Perry and District 72 Texas Rep. Drew Darby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event comes after the Summit Soiree was held at the Cactus Hotel on July 28. The Chamber of Commerce described the soiree as our signature welcome event for sponsors, panelists, and special guests, with this years iteration of the gathering debuting an elevated new format, designed to spark conversation and connection in a relaxed setting. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com. SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) More than 20 mostly Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration Tuesday over its efforts to cut Medicaid payments to the nation's largest abortion provider Planned Parenthood. The move comes in response to the package of tax breaks and spending cuts Trump signed earlier this month. A portion of the new cuts are focused on services such as cancer screenings and tests, birth control and treatment for sexually transmitted infections by ending Medicaid reimbursements for a year for major providers of family planning services. The cuts apply to groups that received more than $800,000 from Medicaid in 2023. The goal was to target Planned Parenthood, but the legislation also affected a major medical provider in Maine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California, New York, Connecticut, other states and Washington, D.C. argue in a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for Massachusetts that the provision's language is unclear about which groups it applies to. They also say it retaliates against Planned Parenthood for advocating for abortion access, violating the free speech clause of the First Amendment. The states are asking that the portion of the law be blocked and deemed unconstitutional. The cuts threaten health care access for many low-income Americans, California Attorney General Rob Bonta said at a news conference. This attack isn't just about abortion, the Democrat said. It's about denying vulnerable communities access to care they rely on every day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, named a defendant in the suit, defended the provision. States should not be forced to fund organizations that have chosen political advocacy over patient care, spokesperson Andrew G. Nixon said in an email. It is a shame that these democrat attorney generals seek to undermine state flexibility and disregard longstanding concerns about accountability. Maine Family Planning, which operates 18 clinics offering a range of services across the state, and Planned Parenthood Federation of America filed separate lawsuits earlier this year challenging the cuts. Planned Parenthood said although it is not specifically named in the law, the provision was meant to affect its nearly 600 centers in 48 states. About a third of those clinics risk closure because of the legislation, which would strip care from more than 1 million patients, the group argues. A federal judge on Monday ruled Planned Parenthood clinics nationwide must continue to receive Medicaid reimbursements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maine Family Planning said it had enough in its reserves to keep seeing patients covered by Medicaid without reimbursements only through October. About half of the groups patients not seeking abortions are enrolled in Medicaid. The states' suit filed Tuesday argues that by pushing Planned Parenthood clinics to close or cut services, it could increase the states' medical care costs in the long term. Otherwise the cuts will make states use their own funds to keep health centers open. Either we have to comply and violate Planned Parenthoods constitutional rights and then push people to alternative providers that dont exist, who dont have the capacity to pick up the slack, or we have to spend upwards of $6 million or more to cover (those services), said William Tong, Connecticut's Democratic attorney general. Federal law already bars taxpayer money from covering most abortions, but some conservatives argue abortion providers use Medicaid money for other health services to subsidize abortion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ Associated Press writer Susan Haigh in Hartford, Connecticut, contributed to this report. ___ Austin is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Austin on X: @sophieadanna NEED TO KNOW The U.S., Army Cadet Command said Neil Edara was unresponsive while conducting Land Navigation training in Fort Knox, Ky., and died on July 24 Authorities are investigating the cause of his death His calm collected demeanor and unwavering commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on everyone around him, said Lt. Col. Timothy Sorensen, a professor of military science at Rutgers University A member of the Army's Reserve Officers Training Corps died while training in Kentucky last week, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neil Edara, of Ridgewood, N.J., "became unresponsive while conducting Land Navigation Training" on Thursday, July 24, at Fort Knox, U.S. Army Cadet Command said in a statement on Saturday, July 26. He was 22 years old, according to the Bergen Record, NBC News and the Lousville Courier Journal. He had been attending Cadet Summer Training as part of 9th Regiment, Advanced Camp. He received immediate medical attention and was medically evacuated by helicopter to the University of Louisville, where he was pronounced deceased by medical professionals, the Army's statement read. The cause of death is under investigation, the statement continued. Further details were not available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Edara joined ROTC at Rutgers University in September 2021, cadet command said. He previously volunteered with the Ridgewood Ambulance Corps, Mayor Paul Vagianos told the Record. "Neil lived to serve his country and his community," Vagianos said, adding, "He was a very special young man who showed us all the true meaning of service. And while I did not know him, I will never forget him." Lt. Col. Timothy Sorensen, a professor of military science at Rutgers University, described Edara as a dedicated and promising young leader. His calm collected demeanor and unwavering commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on everyone around him, Sorensen said in a statement. His loss is deeply felt across the entire ROTC and Rutgers community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On its website, the Army ROTC describes Advanced Camp as a 36-day training event designed to develop a Cadets critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and to forge them into tough, adaptable leaders who can thrive in ambiguous and complex environments. The training consists of four phases: reception and staging; integration; deployment and field training exercise; and redeployment and reintegration. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. According to officials, one of the camps highlights is land navigation, in which cadets display their ability to perform basic land navigation skills during day and night conditions on a verified course in varied terrain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Safety of cadets and cadre remains U.S. Army Cadet Commands top priority as training continues," officials said on Saturday. "Cadets have access to religious affairs or spiritual counseling and support as required." Read the original article on People Editor's note: The article contains graphic footage. The story was updated with comments by President Volodymyr Zelensky. At least 23 civilians were killed and 54 others injured in Russian attacks across Ukraine over the past 24 hours, regional officials reported on July 29. The attacks come only a day after U.S. President Donald Trump voiced frustration with Russia's refusal to cease fire and continued attacks against Ukrainian cities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's Air Force said Russia launched 37 Shahed-type attack drones and decoy drones and fired two Iskander-M ballistic missiles overnight. Air defenses intercepted 32 drones, while five drones and two missiles struck three locations. Debris from the downed drones also fell in two additional areas. The attacks were repelled using a combination of aircraft, mobile fire teams, electronic warfare units, and air defense systems, the military said. In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Russian air strikes killed at least 16 people and injured 35 when bombs hit a local prison. Governor Ivan Fedorov said eight FAB bombs destroyed prison buildings and damaged nearby homes. An 81-year-old woman was also injured elsewhere in the oblast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast resulted in four fatalities and eight injuries, including two people in critical condition one of whom is pregnant and three others in moderate condition, Governor Serhii Lysak reported. A maternity hospital and several hospital wards were damaged. In Kharkiv Oblast, two people were killed and one injured in Russian attacks that damaged civilian infrastructure, according to Governor Oleh Syniehubov. The southern Kherson Oblast recorded one death and three injuries in Russian strikes on critical and social infrastructure, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said. Russian attacks also left two people injured in Donetsk Oblast and four more in Sumy Oblast, according to local officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The strikes come amid Russia's continued refusal to consider an unconditional ceasefire, as Moscow intensifies its use of drones and missiles against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure. President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that the deadly attacks came only a day after Trump said he's shortening the Ukraine peace deadline he set to Russia to 10-12 days. "We all want genuine peace dignified and lasting: Ukraine, all of Europe, the United States, and many decent leaders and countries around the world who support us," Zelensky said on X. "Every killing of our people by the Russians, every Russian strike at a time when a ceasefire could have long been in place, if not for Russias refusal all of this shows that Moscow deserves very harsh, truly painful, and therefore just and effective sanctions pressure." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Ukraine war latest: I already know the answer Trump to shorten Ukraine deadline for Putin to 1012 days Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. CONNECTICUT (WTNH) Waiting for hours at an urgent care when you are sick is the last thing many want to do, but for people in Connecticut, seeing a doctor or nurse can now happen any time of the day or night virtually. The Hartford HealthCare HHC 24/7 app makes getting medical assistance more accessible with less of a headache. Hartford HealthCare psychologist on treating mens mental health People seeking medical help dont have to be a Hartford HealthCare patient to access the care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yale New Haven Health also has an around the clock site called 24/7 Virtual Care, putting a healhcare professional at your fingertips in a matter of minutes most times. Dr. Robert Stavert, medical director of patient experience and virtual care at Yale New Haven Health says that virtual care has advantages for some people depending on symptoms. Minor illnesses, colds, flu where maybe people dont want to go into a clinical setting if they can avoid it, Stavert said. Patients typically get virtual connections within minutes. They can also make an appointment using the app. Medical experts says that virtual visits are proving to be a positive trend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres been a lot of excellent rigorous data and studies demonstrating the safety and quality, the patient satisfaction of different telehealth modalities, Stavert said. There are times when a health care provider may advise more care. If we feel like you need something a bit more sophisticated we can get you to one of our care locations across the state just because were located everywhere within the state of Connecticut, Dr. Padmanabhan Premkumar, president of Hartford HealthCare Medical Group, said. Experts say that 24/7 virtual health care apps are on a care level of a walk in clinic and should not be used for emergency situations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. Angela Lin, a Google software engineer, was killed by a falling tree branch in Yosemite National Park on Saturday, July 19. Lin was 29. Google is well-known for its generous death benefits for employees. Angela Lin, a 29-year-old software engineer at Google, was suddenly killed by a falling tree branch while hiking with her boyfriend and two friends in Yosemite National Park. SFGate was the first to report the story. After the four friends heard a large crack from the trees, a bunch of small branches fell to the groundand one big branch struck Angela. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was just unimaginable that something like this could occur, David Hua, Lins boyfriend, told SFGate. Hua told the outlet he closed his eyes when the branches fell but noticed Lin on the ground, with blood pooled around her head, when he opened his eyes. He said he called 911 and performed CPR until a park ranger, and later police, showed up. Emergency responders said the falling branch killed Lin instantly. A Google spokesperson provided the following statement to Fortune: We lost a loved and respected member of our team. Were very saddened by this tragedy, and our hearts are with their family and loved ones. While Google wouldnt corroborate details about their policies surrounding what happens when an employee dies, in 2012, Forbes reported that in the event of an employees death, Google will pay half of an employees salary to their spouse for 10 yearsa benefit that has no tenure requirement. Every employee is immediately eligible for this benefit regardless of how long theyve worked at the company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to that report, Google also provides stock benefits to the spouse of the deceased employee, and also provides $1,000 per month for any of their children until they turn 19 years old. Google also confirmed to Business Insider in 2012 that same-sex couples receive the same benefits. Lin had been working as an engineer in the San Francisco area for the last six yearsfirst at Salesforce, and later at Google. She earned her Master of Science degree from the University of Texas at Austin. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) The Abilene Zoo has welcomed its second secretary bird chick this year. Born to parents Pam and Jagger, this chicks gender and name remain unknown at this time. The zoo welcomed Pam and Jaggers first offspring of 2025 back in May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abilene Zoo celebrates new bison calf & secretary bird chick Every successful hatch is a huge win for secretary bird conservation, and were so proud to be part of protecting this incredible species, the zoo shared. The Abilene Zoo is the only zoo in the U.S. with an ambassador secretary bird, which helps educate visitors about this species. Additionally, the zoo collaborates with BirdLife South Africa on conservation efforts and research. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. BERLIN (AP) Three men were convicted Tuesday in the theft of hundreds of ancient gold coins from a German museum in 2022 and handed prison sentences ranging up to 11 years. A court in the southern city of Ingolstadt convicted the defendants of gang robbery over the museum heist, German news agency dpa reported. A fourth defendant was acquitted of involvement in the museum heist but convicted for other thefts carried out by the group. The suspects from northern Germany were arrested months after a Nov. 22, 2022 break-in at the Celtic and Roman Museum in the Bavarian town of Manching, in which 483 Celtic coins discovered during an 1999 archaeological dig were stolen. The coins dated to around 100 B.C. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The coins and a lump of unworked gold were originally discovered during excavations of an ancient settlement in Manching, and authorities have said they are considered the biggest trove of Celtic gold found in the 20th century. Most of the stolen treasure is still missing, but investigators found lumps of gold on one of the suspects when he was arrested that appear to have resulted from part of the treasure being melted down. Investigators have said that cables were cut at a telecommunications hub, knocking out local networks, before the heist, and that the thieves got in and out of the museum in nine minutes during the night without triggering an alarm. The four defendants were accused of a total of 20 break-ins or attempted robberies in Germany and neighboring Austria, starting in 2014. Other cases involved safes or cash machines being broken into. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The defendants didn't address the charges during the roughly six-month trial, but their lawyers called for their acquittal. The court sentenced them to prison terms ranging from four years and nine months to 11 years. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Three teens now face multiple charges after a fight at Vancouver Mall that ended when 7 minors ran away as police arrived. A number of people called to report the fight around 4:30 p.m. Monday, Vancouver police said. One caller said one of the youths involved pulled a gun from their pocket. Aloha woman indicted for encouraging child sex abuse in Oregon Two of the teens were quickly detained and another was captured soon after, police said. One of those caught had a gun in his waistband. Three teens face multiple charges after an armed fight at Vancouver Mall, July 28, 2025 (VPD) Three teens face multiple charges after an armed fight at Vancouver Mall, July 28, 2025 (VPD) The teens two 16-year-olds and a 17-year-old were booked into the Clark County Juvenile Detention Hall. They each were booked for two counts of unlawful possession of a gun and one count of assault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. SOCASTEE, S.C. (WBTW ) If you have any shopping to do, this weekend may be the perfect time as South Carolina gears up for its annual Tax Free Weekend holiday. The initiative runs from Aug. 1 to Aug. 3 and slashes the 6% sales tax along with any local taxes from thousands of eligible items. Heres what to know as Tax Free Weekend approaches for its 25th year. School supplies, clothing among tax-free items To help make a Tax Free Weekend plan for shoppers, the states Department of Revenue sorts products into four categories: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement School supplies Computers and techonolgy Clothing and footwear Bed and bath items State officials in 2019 issued an advisory opinion detailing which goods can be purchased without an additional tax. RR19-4Download Non-exempt items include goods placed on layaway or other deferred payment plans, clothing and footwear rentals, cosmetics, eyewear, furniture and jewelry. Retailers cant opt out of the holiday Many merchants use the tax-free weekend to encourage shop local drives by offering discounts or other promotions. But even if a retailer doesnt want to participate, theyre required to do so by state law. Online purchases over the 72-hour span also quality for the tax break. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Businesses can use the state Department of Revenues portal to report weekend sales and receive a deduction. Internet sales made by out-of-state companies must also honor the holiday. Tax Free Weekend leads to big spending In 2024, South Carolina shoppers bought more than $22.3 million in tax-free items, saving more than $1.3 million in the process. For a complete guide of Tax Free Weekend in South Carolina, visit the state Department of Revenues website. * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. The theme of the bizarre musical fountain in the Armenian city of Gyumri the one that decided to play "Thieves Share" suddenly started gaining traction. And guess what? The narrative is being pushed by pro-Russian channels, led by Armenian opposition figure Mika Badalyan, who works for Russia Today. A mentally sound person might reasonably ask: what is there to promote in this story at all? But it turns out, with enough effort, anything can be turned into a conspiracy. The opposition is now accusing the Armenian authorities of having a "share" in the fountain claiming it was a deliberate provocation orchestrated by the government. Gyumri is the only city in Armenia where the mayor belongs to the opposition. The mayor himself blamed the incident on some hackers, but his friends in Moscow came up with a more creative version. According to them, the share was played from the fountain by the authorities as part of a plot to discredit the mayor and stage a mini coup in a single Armenian city. And no, theyre not joking. In fact, watching Armenian politics unfold is endlessly fascinating. Someday, perhaps, a medical student will study these processes, compile a clinical case study on all involved, and defend a doctoral thesis in psychiatry. US-based doughnut and kolache brand Shipley Do-Nuts has been acquired by private equity firm Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (LLCP) from Peak Rock Capital. The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed; however, the deal could value the brand at $400m, reported Bloomberg, citing sources. Shipley Do-nuts executive team, headed by CEO Flynn Dekker, will continue to operate the company its Houston headquarters. LLCP managing partner Matthew Frankel said: We are excited to partner with Flynn and the outstanding Shipley management team, who have been executing on a successful growth strategy. Together, we see a tremendous opportunity to build on this foundation by expanding unit count even further to capture the substantial whitespace and driving strong same-store sales growth. In January 2021, Peak Rock Capital acquired the majority stake in Shipley from the original owning family. Shipley operates more than 375 locations across 14 US states, has been in business for nearly 90 years, providing more than 60 types of donuts, kolaches. and coffee. The acquisition of Shipley represents the fourth platform investment of LLCP's Fund VII. LLCP's portfolio includes investments in brands including Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Hand & Stone. Shipley now becomes the 18th franchising investment for LLCP, bringing the total to 32 brands across various industries. Dekker said: Shipley is growing faster than ever in its history, and partnering with LLCP presents an outstanding opportunity for Shipley to accelerate our growth and bring the worlds greatest donut to an even wider audience. Their extensive expertise in franchise food brands will be pivotal in driving future growth and supporting our franchisees, while preserving our commitment to fresh-made quality and our original recipes that have made our brand the icon it is today. Legal advice for LLCP was provided by Kirkland & Ellis and DLA Piper, while Shipley received guidance from North Point and J.P. Morgan. In March 2025, Shipley signed a 30-unit development agreement to extend its national footprint. "Levine Leichtman Capital Partners acquires Shipley Do-Nuts" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) Thirty-two schools in Berkeley County will offer students no-cost breakfast and lunches this school year, thanks to a federal program. The Berkeley County School District will participate in the Community Eligibility Provision for the 2025-2026 school year, which is a federally funded initiative that uses data from Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) enrollment and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) applications to identify qualifying communities. The schools participating are: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Berkeley Elementary Berkeley High Berkeley Middle Boulder Bluff Elementary Cainhoy Elementary College Park Elementary College Park Middle Cross Elementary Cross High Devon Forest Elementary Foxbank Elementary Goose Creek Elementary Goose Creek High H.E. Bonner Elementary Hanahan Elementary Hanahan High Hanahan Middle Macedonia Middle Moncks Corner Elementary Mount Holly Elementary Sangaree Elementary Sangaree Intermediate Sangaree Middle Sedgefield Middle Stratford High St. Stephen Elementary St. Stephen Middle Timberland High Westview Elementary Westview Middle Westview Primary Whitesville Elementary Families do not need to fill out applications to receive free meals; however, if a negative balance exists on a students account, it will need to be paid in advance. Students at the thirty-two schools will not accrue any more charges during the school year. As for other schools in the district, students who apply will still receive free and reduced meals under the National School Lunch Program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parents who dont want their child to participate in the CEP program can call BCSD Child Nutrition Services at 843-899-5054. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. Thirty-eight neglected dogs were found living in deplorable conditions inside a California home, leading to felony animal cruelty charges against the resident, authorities said. Brandi Lee Jacobs, 42, appeared in Butte County Superior Court on Monday facing 39 felony counts after officers discovered the dogs during a welfare check at her Oroville residence last week. The Oroville Police Department and Code Enforcement responded following a neighbors complaint about the large number of dogs and a strong odor of animal waste. Upon arrival, officers encountered overwhelming odors and deplorable conditions, including several inches of feces covering floors and walls, according to the Butte County District Attorneys Office. Jacobs and her spouse, Jose Bartolo Martinez Jr., were jointly charged with 39 counts of felony animal cruelty for failing to provide the dogs with adequate food, water, shelter, and protection from the elements. Prosecutors said these conditions led to needless suffering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California man pleads guilty in $13 million federal fraud case After being arraigned on Monday, Jacobs remains in the Butte County Jail with bail set at $585,000. Martinez was also arrested, but was mistakenly released due to a paperwork error. Oroville police are now pursuing a new warrant to return him to custody, according to District Attorney Mike Ramsey. Inside the residence, officers documented 38 living dogs. Many were found crammed inside small cages, malnourished, and exhibiting signs of severe neglect. A deceased puppy was discovered inside a crate in the couples bedroom, the police department said in a press release. The Northwest Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) responded to assist with the removal and care of the animals. The nonprofit found that all the dogs were suffering from malnourishment, with some also affected by respiratory, skin, or urinary infections. Despite their poor condition, officials say all 38 dogs are expected to recover. (Oroville Police Department) (Oroville Police Department) (Oroville Police Department) (Oroville Police Department) In a public statement, the Northwest SPCA said their current focus is on providing urgent medical care for the rescued dogs. The organization is asking for financial donations to help cover the animals treatment costs and noted that the dogs are not yet available for adoption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To help alleviate overcrowding, the Northwest SPCA has waived adoption fees for all other animals in its care and plans to hold another free adoption event in the near future. This case remains an active investigation. Authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Oroville Police Department. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. A 38-year-old man who previously served time in prison for aggravated robbery and other crimes has been charged with capital murder in Kansas in connection with the fatal shooting of a sheriff's deputy in Kansas City, Kansas. Shawn M. Harris also is charged with violating a Kansas law that prohibits people with felony records from possessing weapons. The charges were filed Monday in Wyandotte County District Court by District Attorney Mark Dupree Sr. Harris made his first court appearance Tuesday, with District Judge Daniel Cahill setting his bond at $2 million. He is jailed in neighboring Johnson County. Authorities say Harris opened fire Saturday when Wyandotte County Deputy Elijah Ming and a Kansas City, Kansas, police officer approached his home after receiving a report from a woman living there that he had threatened friends who were helping her move out. Ming was hit multiple times and died hours later at a hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said it was a routine standby call, where police go to keep the peace for someone. We do thousands of these types of calls a year, Kansas City, Kansas, Police Chief Karl Oakman said during a news conference Tuesday. Dupree said he will confer with Ming's family before deciding within the next 10 days whether to pursue a death sentence. The only alternative sentence would be life in prison with no possibility of parole. Nine men are on death row in Kansas. But the state hasn't executed anyone since June 1965, when the sentence was carried out by hanging instead of lethal injection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state's death penalty defense unit has been appointed to represent Harris because he could not afford to hire an attorney. Chief Capital Defender Mark Manna declined comment Tuesday. Harris was paroled in Kansas in October 2023 after pleading guilty to seven felony charges in 2012 and 2013 in Kansas and Missouri, according to records available online. The crimes included aggravated robbery, attempted aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and felony theft in Wyandotte County and felony tampering with a motor vehicle in Lafayette County, Missouri, east of Kansas City. He was taken from Kansas to Missouri in 2013 and pled guilty to an assault charge while serving time there. He returned to Kansas in 2021. Police work at the scene of a fatal shooting in midtown Manhattan on July 28, 2025 in NYC. - Credit: Spencer Platt/Getty Images On Monday evening, a gunman entered the lobby of a midtown Manhattan building and began firing a rifle, fatally shooting four people, including a New York City police officer, before killing himself, authorities said. A fifth victim was critically wounded but is in stable condition, said New York City Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch. The police officer killed in the attack was Didarul Islam, 36, who was working in a private security role at the time and was an immigrant from Bangladesh, Mayor Eric Adams said at a news conference. Officer Islam was married and had two young boys, said Tisch; his wife is pregnant with their third child. More from Rolling Stone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He made the ultimate sacrifice, shot in cold blood, wearing a uniform that stood for the promise that he made to this city, said Tisch at the conference. He died as he lived, a hero. One male and one female were brought to Bellevue Hospital and died, and another woman was found dead on the 33rd floor of the building, said the commissioner. The lone shooting survivor, a male, is in critical but stable condition, and was transported to New York Presbyterian Hospital. Four other victims being treated for minor injuries sustained in their attempts to flee the scene, Tisch continued, adding that the names of the civilian victims are being withheld until family notification. Tisch said that the gunman is believed to be Shane Devon Tamura, a 27-year-old male with a Las Vegas address. Tamura traveled cross-country, leaving Nevada and driving through Colorado on July 26 before entering New York City, said the commissioner. Police searched the gunmans car and found multiple items including a loaded revolver, a rifle case, and prescription medication. Inside of that vehicle, officers found a rifle case with rounds, a loaded revolver, ammunition and magazines, a backpack, and medication prescribed to Mr. Tamura, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gunman has a documented mental health history, said Tisch. He died after shooting himself in the chest on the 33rd floor, the commissioner confirmed. His motives are currently under investigation. According to ABC News, police discovered a note in Tamuras pocked stating that he suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE. The document reportedly mentioned the NFL, which has an office in the building the gunman entered, as well. He appeared to have blamed the NFL for his injury, Adams told CBS, adding: From our preliminary investigation, he took the wrong elevator bank up to the NFL headquarters. Instead, it took him to Rudin Management, and that is where he carried out additional shootings and took the lives of additional employees. This is a developing story. This story was updated on Tuesday, July 29 at 9:30 a.m. EST to include reports that the suspected gunman suffered from CTE and mentioned the NFL in a note found on his person. Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) Parishioners from four parishes in Lockport, Jamestown, Depew, and Lancaster are suing the Buffalo Diocese after they were ordered to contribute to an $150 million child sexual abuse settlement. The move comes after five local parishes sued the diocese and got a July 15 deadline to pay toward the settlement pushed back. Parishioners sue Buffalo Diocese to stop payments in abuse settlement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parishioners from All Saints Parish in Lockport, Procurator of Holy Apostles Parish in Jamestown, St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta in Depew, and Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish and Diocese Shrine in Lancaster are requesting a temporary restraining order. They allege that the payments would be financially devastating and would cause irreparable harm to their operations. Parishes were ordered to pay upwards of 80% of their unrestricted cash toward the settlement. The diocese said in a statement that it does not comment on pending litigation. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct and will continue to cooperate fully with all legal processes as required, the statement read. Latest Local News Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. Four NYC-area hospitals made a nationwide Top 20 list in US News & World Reports annual honor roll that recognizes medical centers providing high-quality care. Mount Sinai Hospital, New York-Presbyterian Hospital-Columbia and Cornell, NYU Langone Hospitals and Hackensack University Medical Center at Hackensack Meridian Health in Hackensack, NJ, earned top honors in the Best Hospitals rankings released Tuesday. Those same four health centers tied for first place for best regional hospitals in the NYC metro area. Four NYC-area hospitals, including NYU Langone Hospitals, were highlighted in US News & World Reports annual honor roll that recognizes medical centers providing high-quality care. US News evaluated over 4,400 hospitals across 15 specialties, spotlighting 504 regional hospitals around the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For its part, NYU Langone Health notched more No. 1-ranked specialties than any US medical center, thriving in neurology and neurosurgery (for the fourth consecutive year); cardiology, heart and vascular surgery; pulmonology and lung surgery; and geriatric care. Thanks to the incredible employees working across our integrated health system, NYU Langone has achieved something unmatched this year: The most top-ranked medical specialties among any of our peers across the nation, said Dr. Robert I. Grossman, CEO of NYU Langone and dean of NYU Grossman School of Medicine. NYU Langone has always maintained one consistently high standard of care, regardless of location and specialty, allowing us to consistently deliver the best quality and outcomes to our patients. In addition to making the honor roll, New York-Presbyterian Hospital-Columbia and Cornell earned top-five designations in cardiology, diabetes, neurology, obstetrics, orthopedics, psychiatry, rheumatology and urology care. Matthew McDermott for NY Post These rankings extend to NYU Langones Tisch Hospital, Kimmel Pavilion and NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital in Manhattan; NYU Langone Hospital Long Island and NYU Langone Hospital Brooklyn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Data for this years rankings covered a period before Long Island Community Hospital became NYU Langone Hospital Suffolk in March. All 13 of NYU Langones ranked clinical specialties were in the Top 20 nationally. The breadth and depth of our neurology and neurosurgery teams allow us to take care of the most complicated patients. We are very grateful that our teams have been recognized again for the fourth time, Dr. Steven L. Galetta, the Philip K. Moskowitz professor and chair of Neurology at NYU Langone, told The Post. Mount Sinai held Top 10 rankings in five specialties, up from four in 2024, and Top 20 rankings in nine specialties, up from eight in 2024. G.N.Miller for NY Post Dr. Glenn I. Fishman, the William Goldring professor of medicine and director of the Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology at NYU Langone Health, called the cardiology, heart and vascular surgery ranking not just a measure of excellence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a reflection of lives changed, futures restored and whats possible when every part of a heart program works in unison, he told The Post. Mount Sinai, meanwhile, held Top 10 rankings in five specialties, up from four in 2024, and Top 20 rankings in nine specialties, up from eight in 2024. Hackensack University Medical Center became the first hospital in New Jersey to be ranked a Top 20 national hospital by US News & World Report. Christopher Sadowski for NY Post These rankings once again reflect the unwavering commitment to science, innovation and the exceptional, patient-centered care that define the Mount Sinai Hospital and our entire health system, said Dr. Brendan G. Carr, CEO and the Kenneth L. Davis distinguished chair of the Mount Sinai Health System. New York-Presbyterian Hospital-Columbia and Cornell noted that it is being recognized for the 22nd consecutive year, with 12 specialties in the Top 10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are grateful to our extraordinary doctors, nurses and staff who are dedicated to providing the highest quality, most compassionate care to our patients and improving the health of all the communities we serve, the hospital told The Post in a statement. And making history this year is Hackensack University Medical Center, which became the first hospital in New Jersey to be ranked a Top 20 national hospital by US News. This historic Top 20 national ranking belongs to our team members, said Robert C. Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health. It was forged in the early morning hours by our nurses, earned in the operating room by our surgeons and built daily by every team member who puts our patients first. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond the honor roll, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) was named the best cancer center in the Northeast, the No. 2 US hospital for cancer care and the No. 1 hospital nationally for urology care in the rankings. We are committed to providing world-class cancer care and pursuing breakthrough research to advance our mission of ending cancer for life, said Dr. Selwyn M. Vickers, MSK president and CEO. The hunger in Gaza has become impossible to ignore. The World Food Program, an arm of the United Nations, said last week the Gaza hunger crisis had reached new and astonishing levels of desperation. And Yannay Spitzer, an assistant professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, recently shared evidence that the situation (in Gaza) is radically different from everything up to now. Yet there are at least four reasons why its been difficult to assess the scope of hunger, injury and death in Gaza. Some of these were highlighted in a recent analysis by Matti Friedman, a Jerusalem-based columnist for The Free Press, entitled: Is Gaza Starving? Searching for the Truth in an Information War. Very little of what is reported here, Friedman concludes, is what it seems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli journalist went on to describe his own attempts to try and understand the scope of hunger taking hold in Gaza by calling trusted colleagues with long experience covering the area. These were journalists concerned about both Israelis and innocent Palestinians. Yet Friedman laments how difficult it was even for these seasoned journalists to ascertain the truth. When he asked one individual who recently worked as a senior Israeli government official whether people were starving in Gaza, the person said honestly: I dont know. Why would it be challenging for even connected journalists on the ground in the Middle East to know whats going on? Heres why: 1. Doubts about Hamas-influenced health numbers from Gaza A Hamas fighter stands next to a portrait that shows former Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, as he attends the funeral procession of Samer al-Haj, a Hamas official who was killed by an Israeli drone strike, at Ein el-Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp in the southern port city of Sidon, Aug. 10, 2024. | Mohammed Zaatari A few weeks after the Gaza war began, news outlets around the world including the New York Times reported that a hospital had been bombed in Gaza with at least 500 dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Furious protests erupted, Friedman notes, with an enraged mob even burning a synagogue in Tunisia. Yet the story turned out to be vastly exaggerated with the hospital still intact, albeit with some fire damage from what U.S. intelligence concluded was a misfired Palestinian rocket. Like other outlets, the Deseret News reported mass casualties from the explosion at the time. But the publication focused its coverage on exploring who was responsible for explosion in Gaza hospital? in an article entitled: Early Israel, U.S. intelligence claims Islamic Jihad rocket responsible for Gaza hospital explosion. The New York Times later published an Editors Note acknowledging that earlier coverage relied too heavily on claims by Hamas, and did not make clear that those claims could not immediately be verified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After other journalist colleagues made repeated attempts to seek verification on various facts, Friedman says the consensus was that there are nearly no trustworthy sources regarding reality in Gaza. This is largely because of continuing doubts about official figures reported by the Gaza Health Ministry, which is responsible for managing health care and medical services in the Gaza Strip. Although the health ministry has denied manipulating death figures, its widely known the ministry is strongly influenced or controlled by Hamas. Luke Baker, a former Reuters Jerusalem bureau chief, wrote in 2023, Hamas has a clear propaganda incentive to inflate civilian casualties as much as possible. He later added, Any health official stepping out of line and not giving the death tolls that Hamas wants reported to journalists risks serious consequences. At a minimum, this explains why even appraising the scope of hunger in Gaza is so difficult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even AI seems to agree, with a Google AI overview stating, It is important to note that misinformation and disinformation surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict are widespread, and its essential to critically evaluate all information and consult multiple credible sources before forming conclusions. 2. Curated reports from the Israeli government and armed forces In this screen grab image from a video provided by the Israeli Government Press Office, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu makes a televised statement Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024, in Jerusalem, Israel. | Israeli Government Press Office Information released by the Israeli government and armed forces also must be questioned, Friedman adds, describing how government messages about the wars progress and goals have shifted frequently. The Israeli public has raised continued concerns about both government messaging and strategy. Friedman also highlights with concern information from the Israel Defense Forces, which he says can mislead overtly or by omission. For instance, he describes how a reporter for the Israeli daily Haaretz, Amos Harel, critiqued a video released by the army recently that shows Hamas members eating abundant food underground, and pointing out that the clip was from last year. 3. Misinformation spread by other countries In October of 2024, Steven Lee Myers and Sheera Frenkel reported on efforts by Russia, China and Iran to use state media and covert influence campaigns on social media networks to support Hamas, undermine Israel and criticize the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time, these New York Times reporters described the start of the Gaza war as unleashing a deluge of online propaganda and disinformation that was larger than anything seen before and fast becoming a world war online. They reported that in the year since Hamas attacked Israel, Cyabra, a social media intelligence company in Tel Aviv, had documented 40,000 inauthentic accounts or bots online. They described the content generated by these accounts as visceral, emotionally charged, politically slanted and often false saying it stoked anger and even violence far beyond Gaza, raising fears that it could inflame a wider conflict. 4. Reporting from journalists with biases against Israel Palestinian journalists have been intimidated by Hamas, according to reports throughout the war. Friedman claims that during his years as an Associated Press reporter and editor, I saw coverage altered by Hamas threats to our staff, while this fact was concealed from readers. In mainstream media coverage around the world, this journalist notes that Israelis have been accused of fake massacres and rapes over the years with deceptive allegations of wrongdoing often using statistics that are themselves untrue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The loss of life in Gaza has been enormous and tragic, while hunger there is acknowledged as a serious problem by all sides. Yet getting a clear glimpse of the scope of the tragedy has been consistently challenging. Even early in the war, Friedman says, which had barely begun at the time, the Israeli response to the Oct. 7 terror attack began to be described in international media as a genocide. The Israeli journalist says that reports of impending hunger engineered by Israel in Gaza have been commonplace not just since the beginning of this war but for at least a decade and a half, since Hamas seized the territory. As coverage of worsening hunger has increased in recent months, Friedman notes that nearly all the blame has been directed at Israel, with the implicit or explicit explanation being malevolence or genocidal intent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given the immense destruction in Gaza, its important to take seriously the strongest criticism of Israels approach. Especially as the war has continued, a growing number of observers have raised serious concerns at the level of destruction and brutal loss of life in Gaza. That includes two leading Israeli rights groups, who released a report on Monday arguing that Israels claim that Hamas fighters or members of other armed Palestinian groups were present in medical or civilian facilities, frequently without providing any evidence, cannot justify or explain such widespread, systematic destruction. Omer Bartov, a professor of Holocaust and genocide studies at Brown University, also wrote an article earlier in July entitled: Im a Genocide Scholar. I Know It When I See It. In that article, this former soldier in the Israeli army gathers evidence leading him to conclude that a genocide is taking place. He cites other scholars, such as A. Dirk Moses of the City University of New York, who described the Gaza destruction as a mix of genocidal and military logic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even Bartov cites Gazan health authorities for the mass casualty figures in his analysis. Whatever the exact figures, of course, the civilian toll of this conflict has been immense and heartbreaking. Hunger is real, but with multifaceted causes Sobhi al-Bursh, who was injured in a bombing and lost his foot, is fed beans brought from home by his father, Mohamed, at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza Strip, Tuesday, May 6, 2025. | Abdel Kareem Hana Like other journalists, Friedman doesnt deny the existence of real hunger and even starvation in Gaza. But his own investigations reveal reasons to question the scope of hunger, while confirming that the causes are complex. He cites Ohad Hemo, the Palestinian affairs reporter for Channel 12 News, Israels most widely watched news program, who reported last week that food warehouses serving Hamas fighters were still full. I dont know if people are dying directly from hunger, as is being claimed in Gaza, Hemo stated. But there is hunger in Gaza, and we need to state this loud and clear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That trusted journalist described speaking to people who hadnt eaten in days, and reported that aid arriving wasnt reaching many in greatest need. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation reports that more than 90 million meals have been distributed directly to Gazans in recent months through this American-operated and Israeli-affiliated food distribution. Yet this assistance threatens Hamas own control of food. As a result, Friedman reports that Hamas has been doing what it can to foment unrest around its distribution sites, kill its workers, and intimidate people accepting its food. According to Friedmans associates, who are serving with army reserves close to the food distribution, there has continued to be chaotic scenes of thousands of men descending on the distribution sites and picking them clean. As has been widely reported, fatal shots have been fired from Israeli soldiers who are understandably scared of disguised Hamas fighters and unprepared for the kind of mass chaos theyre expected to control. The number of casualties, again, is almost impossible to know. But what does seem increasingly clear, as Friedman recounted from a colleagues conversation with a senior figure in the Israeli military last week, is that Gaza really is on the brink this time, even if its not the mass starvation claimed by pro-Hamas propaganda. There have been tremendous lies told about Israels war, Israeli journalist Amit Segal acknowledges. But that doesnt mean the threat of starvation isnt real. This reality is reflected in Israels increasing humanitarian pauses and more airdropping of aid. And it underscores the tragedy in having so much confusion in a basic understanding of life-and-death figures even to this day. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) Four people were sent to the hospital after a fire started on the top floor of a building on Thrush Avenue just off Sheridan Road on Monday. Seven fire trucks came to the scene to stop the fire, Peoria Fire Department Battalion Chief Josh Martin said. All people exited the building in time, with Two adults and two kids heading to the hospital with minor smoke inhalation. The fire started in the upstairs bedroom. Martin said he was proud of the firefighters response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We had a quick response getting here. I would say most of our crews were on scene in less than 6 minutes, 6 to 8 minutes, which was a good response time, Martin said. Rescue one truck one did a rapid search of the house just to confirm there was no more occupants trapped in the house and had a search conducted within 3 minutes. Fire was knocked down within 5 minutes. The fire caused an estimated $60,000 in damage. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. 5-ft water monitor lizard spotted in Thompson after going missing in Massachusetts THOMPSON, Conn. (WTNH) A 5-foot water monitor lizard missing from Massachusetts was last spotted in Thompson, according to town officials on Friday. The illegally-owned pet was spotted in the Little Pond area on Wilsonville Road and Thompson Road. Bearded dragon among pets seized during Watertown animal cruelty investigation This particular water monitor lizard has black coloring with white scarring on its back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since leaving home, the lizard has been living up to its species tendencies, which is to travel far and wide. He was first reported missing from Webster, Massachusetts more than a week ago. At that time, Webster Animal Control said law enforcement did a small search in the area of the residence, even having police use a drone to check nearby pools. Goose the water monitor lizard missing from Massachusetts last seen in Thompson, Connecticut. Goose the water monitor lizard missing from Massachusetts last seen in Thompson, Connecticut. Its a roughly seven mile drive from where the lizard from spotted in Webster then Thompson. But the lizards are known to seek water and Lake Chaubunagungamaug sits between the towns. Officials said water monitor lizards are also known to climb trees, eat dead rodents (not landscaping), and love sun. Because the nights have been colder, Webster Animal Control said residents should keep an eye out on their patios, pool sides, and yards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Motorcyclist killed in Thompson crash They also said the colder nights diminish his chance of survival. They dont typically attack humans or other pets like dogs and cats, Thompson officials said. If seen, people are asked not to approach, but to call Webster Animal Control at 508-943-1212, State Police Troop D (Danielson) at 860-779-4900, or Massachusetts Environmental Police at 800-632-8075 (press #1). Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. NEED TO KNOW A 6-year-old boy drowned on Saturday, July 26, after wandering off during a family reunion in Michigan The boy was found in the water at Belle Isle Park in Detroit Police said the boy, who had autism, was pronounced dead when he arrived at the hospital A 6-year-old boy with autism has drowned after wandering off during a family gathering in Michigan, police have said. On Saturday, July 26 at 7:20 p.m. local time, authorities responded after receiving "calls of a missing 6-year-old and then a medical emergency" at Belle Isle Park in Detroit, the Michigan State Police's (MSP) Second District confirmed in an X post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a preliminary investigation, a family reunion had been taking place at the park's Belle Isle Shelter #2 "near the river that feeds into Lake Tacoma," the post stated. Police said, "Multiple children were playing inside a bouncing castle. A 6-year-old male child from Detroit left the bouncing castle and wandered away from the other kids and the family reunion." Google Maps A photo of Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan A photo of Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan The post noted that "when family members noticed the boy was missing, they began searching for him," adding, "After not being able to locate the child, members of the family called 911 and reported him as being missing and that he was also autistic." The boy, who hasn't been named, was located in the river by another child and adult near the shelter where the reunion was taking place approximately 30 minutes later, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Conservation officers and DNR park rangers were first on scene along with civilians. CPR and rescuing breathing began promptly," the post noted. The preliminary investigation findings stated that "when a trooper arrived" on the scene, "they took over CPR and rescue breathing." "The DNR officers applied an AED [Automated External Defibrillator] and one successful shock was delivered. The AED then instructed first responders to continue CPR," the post continued, confirming the child was taken to a local hospital, but sadly died upon arrival. "Detroit Fire arrived and took over life saving measures. The child was transported to Childrens Hospital by EMS with a trooper escort. The child was pronounced dead when he arrived at the hospital," the post confirmed. halbergman/Getty A photo of Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan A photo of Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan Michigan State Police First Lieutenant, Mike Shaw, said of the tragedy, Our heart goes out to this little boys family and also the first responders and community members on scene who did everything they could to try and save this childs life," per the X post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, we have seen several drownings in Michigan this year. A drowning can happen quickly and quietly and is often not how it is portrayed on TV. Keep a close eye on your kids and people who [can't] swim, wear life jackets when boating and if you are a poor swimmer, and be careful with alcohol consumption," he added. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human-interest stories. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are over 4,000 "unintentional drowning deaths" in the U.S. every year and that "more children ages 1-4 die from drowning than any other cause of death." The CDC also states, "Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 5-14." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Autism Association reports that "children with autism are 160 times as likely to die from drowning as the general pediatric population," citing a 2017 study by Columbia Universitys Mailman School of Public Health. The Michigan State Police and the Detroit Fire Department did not immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE for additional information. Read the original article on People By Stephen Nellis SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) -Aeva Technologies said on Tuesday that South Korean camera module maker LG Innotek will take an equity stake in Aeva as part of a $50 million strategic collaboration. Aeva makes lidar sensors that help vehicles and industrial equipment gain a detailed three-dimensional view of their environment and detect how fast surrounding objects are moving. It supplies sensors to vehicle firms such as Daimler Truck and industrial equipment makers such as Nikon. As part of the deal, LG Innotek will make a $32 million equity investment in Aeva for a "single-digit percentage ownership" in the company, Aeva CEO Soroush Salehian told Reuters in an interview. The remainder of the deal will go toward building production capacity for sensors that can go into robotics and consumer devices, in addition to Aeva's existing markets of vehicles and industrial equipment. The ultimate goal of this partnership is for LG Innotek and Aeva to grow together as key players leading the next-generation lidar market through a long-term technology partnership that goes beyond the supply of products, the South Korean electronics supplier's CEO, Hyuksoo Moon, said in a statement. Salehian told Reuters that Aeva is working to integrate its entire sensor into a single chip whose price can be driven low enough to make it viable in consumer electronics such as augmented reality headsets. "The roadmap that we're going towards is double-digit dollars," Salehian told Reuters. "We are already working towards the next generation that will allow for a very low-cost solution, which we think will be a game changer for mass adoption of what we call precision sensing." (Reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Editing by Saad Sayeed) The Brief A 63-year-old man from Bishop, Georgia, was fatally struck by a Ford F-150 while walking along Georgia State Route 186 on July 25. Investigators say the pickup crossed the fog line and hit the pedestrian, identified as Hamilton Foster. The Georgia State Patrols specialized crash team is investigating to determine if charges will be filed. OCONEE COUNTY, Ga. - A 63-year-old man from Bishop was struck and killed by a pickup truck while walking along Georgia State Route 186 on Friday afternoon. What we know According to the Georgia State Patrol, the incident happened around 4:02 p.m. on July 25. Preliminary findings suggest the man, identified as Hamilton Foster, was walking eastbound along the highway, outside of the travel lane, when a Ford F-150 also heading east crossed over the fog line and hit him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Foster died from his injuries at the scene. The Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team (SCRT-B) was called in to assist with the investigation. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and will determine whether any charges will be filed. What we don't know No information has been released about the driver at this time. Part of the increase is from IDF having Hezbollah on the run since the November 2024 ceasefire, with no Hezbollah forces in southern Lebanon and no rockets fired at Israel since December. The IDF has said that 74% of Israelis have returned to the northern border towns out of the 60,000-80,000 who had evacuated at the height of the war. This is a significant increase from a few months ago, when the numbers were still estimated as closer to 30-40%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Part of the increase appears to be because the IDF has Hezbollah on the run since the November 2024 ceasefire, with almost no Hezbollah forces in southern Lebanon and no rockets fired on Israel since December 2024. In addition, families who had evacuated to areas in central Israel were waiting out for the school year to end are now transitioning back to the North before the next school year starts on September 1. Despite the positive news, the return is very uneven. Jerusalem Post visited various spots near the border with Lebanon in order to see and hear from soldiers and northern residents how their lives have improved since the ceasefire, and whether they still feel safe after the IDF withdrawl (credit: YONAH JEREMY BOB) In some communities like Shlomi, the return rate is around 100%. In contrast, in some places like Metula, which was hit by Hezbollah fire much more heavily, the return rate so far is still as low as 30%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is also a neighborhood inManara that was essentially completely destroyed, and there has been no move to rebuild it due to a mix of local factors. Moreover, while the Defense Ministry has started a push to add and restore safe rooms and bomb shelters for northern residents, it has still had a slow and lackadaisical pace to date. In February, The Jerusalem Post visited various spots near the border with Lebanon, including Metula, Kiryat Shmona, and Kfar Giladi, in order to see and hear from soldiers and northern residents how their lives had improved since the November 27 ceasefire, and whether they still felt safe after the IDF withdrawal. At the time, Kiryat Shmona Spokesman Doron Shneper told the Post, We would not need any of these outposts if the IDF had gotten rid of Hezbollah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We feel this is a historic mistake and that there will be a crying out of generations because Israel could change the reality on the northern border and with a bit more determination could prevent future wars and ensure peace by cleaning out the territory of Hezbollah, he said. Shneper continued, This is not just in our interest, but it is in the interest of the Lebanese people. Nowhere else did a terror organization conquer a country, and the world remained quiet. The Lebanese support the IDF more than some Israelis. Who suffers from Hezbollah day to day? The Lebanese! However, later, many northern officials praised the IDF for being aggressive against Hezbollah since the ceasefire, even if it did not knock out Hezbollah completely with a longer ground invasion as they had originally wished. Security sources in February spoke to the Post about Metula, noting that while the eastern side of the city is better protected by an IDF outpost, the western side of the sprawling city has essentially no protection from the outpost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, certain soldiers pointed out that there could have been additional outposts, some with even superior vantage points of any potential Lebanese approaches toward Metula, but that some of these were vetoed to avoid friction with Lebanese villagers, given that they were closer to the villages. In contrast, the soldiers and other sources said that the five positions which were selected struck a balance between giving Israel some advantages of early warnings from any potential invasion, while being at a distance from the villages to reduce friction. IDF sources responded that the five outposts did not compromise on Israeli security and give the IDF operational supremacy in a number of areas, both in terms of intelligence collection and preventing invasions. In February, security sources from Metula said that they felt less safe after the IDF withdrew from southern Lebanon, but that they also felt safer than before October 7, 2023, because there were three times as many soldiers protecting them, and their presence was clearly felt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those residents who have not yet returned may be refraining from doing so in protest over either that Hezbollah was not disarmed or that the IDF did not retain a permanent larger security perimeter in southern Lebanon. Others are not returning because they are afraid that even if at this moment the five outposts and greater number of troops on the border provide mores security against a weakened Hezbollah, that in three years or five years, Hezbollah will make a comeback and the IDF and Israels short attention span will lead to losing their focus on keeping security strong. Interviewees in Kiryat Shmonah, Metula, and Kfar Giladi said that significant portions of public infrastructure and services, let alone schools, were simply not ready to reabsorb large numbers of returning residents on March 2, when many subsidies expired. In Metula, repairs of certain houses continue, and some may take years to repair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Post in February returned to visit the Metula house of Zami Ravid, which experienced multiple hits after having lived in Metula for over 50 years (the Post last visited the house in early December 2024.) The second floor of the house was mostly destroyed and causing a collapse of the house onto large portions of the first floor. Several other houses on the same street were struck in the same barrage. In February, there had been no progress in rebuilding any of the destroyed houses observed by the Post, which sources said was because of delays caused by public competitive bidding processes for developers and delayed financing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interviewees in Kiryat Shmona, Metula, and Kfar Giladi also said that in some cases, as many as 40% of residents may never come back because of the trauma of the rocket attacks, the new fear of invasion that erupted after October 7, and the simple passing of nearly 17 months living in new places with new lives. Government would need to provide financial incentives to draw new families Multiple sources said that the government would need to provide financial incentives to draw new families to the North to replace many of the former residents who will not come back. In addition, Candice Omerod of Kfar Giladi said that some residents would not return because the government had reneged on paying for safe rooms. Originally, she said Kfar Giladi was guaranteed full financial reimbursement to pay for safe rooms because it is only around one kilometer from the border. However, later she said the village was told that due to budget shortfalls, the government would only cover part of the safe room cost, leaving villagers to cover between NIS 20,000-70,000 out of pocket something which many residents cannot afford. FAIRMONT, W.Va. (WBOY) A three-day lane closure near White Hall in Marion County is expected to begin Wednesday morning at 7 a.m., according to a press release from the West Virginia Division of Highways. The section of I-79 between mile markers 132 and 131 will be reduced to one southbound lane until 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1. During that time, Swank Construction will be carrying out milling and paving activities, according to the release. For reference, a majority of the lane closure will be slightly south of the main portion of the I-79 road widening and bridge replacement project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New mini-golf, ropes course and zipline opening in Lewis County next month The Division of Highways warns motorists of minor delays and advises drivers to allow for additional time during their commute. Inclement weather and unforeseen circumstances may affect this schedule. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. Florida deputies arrested four family members who are accused of abusing their adopted children. On July 22, authorities arrested Brian Matthew Griffeth, 47; Jill Elizabeth Griffeth, 41; Dallin Russel Griffeth, 21; and Liberty Ann Griffeth, 19, according to a Facebook post from the Columbia County Sheriffs Office. All four face charges of aggravated child abuse. The investigation into the family began on July 3. Thats when the Florida Department of Children and Families called authorities to remove nine children, four of whom were adopted, residing at the Griffeth residence in Fort White The adopted childrens ages ranged from 7 to 16. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Florida DCF responded after a mandatory report at the familys local church, a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in nearby Branford. A witness told DCF officials they saw one of the Griffeths children playing with an electronic stun gun. There were also concerns that the biological children were mistreating the adopted children. When DCF investigators visited the home, they found the adopted children were working on chores while the biological children were relaxing and watching television. DCF officials interviewed all nine children and discovered various forms of child abuse, according to the Facebook post. They included, but were not limited to: being caged under a bunk bed by screwing in plywood to prevent escape; Jill forcing plywood on top of the childs body and pressing down, resulting in splinters and pain; kids being sprayed with vinegar as a form of punishment and being instructed to lie about what happens in the home. The children told DCF that Brian beat them with a cane and that he, as well as other adults in the home, would also lock the children in their rooms, according to the post. Authorities also discovered there was a 10th child, who was being fostered, not present during the visit. The child was with their biological parents in Arizona. Florida DCF contacted the Glendale Police Department to do a wellness check on that child, who was found to be safe and healthy, according to the Facebook post. Once interviews were completed, the adults were arrested and taken to the Columba County Detention Facility, where each was being held on $500,000 bond. A Russian oil tycoon has accused the UK Government of virtue signalling after he failed to overturn sanctions in the Supreme Court. Eugene Shvidler, a billionaire businessman with close ties to Roman Abramovich, the former Chelsea FC owner, has lashed out at policymakers over claims he was punished for purely political purposes. His criticism related to a ruling handed down by the Supreme Court on Tuesday, which upheld sanctions imposed following Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine three years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Shvidler, who previously served on the board of companies owned by the former Chelsea owner, claimed he was hit with sanctions purely because of his Russian heritage. He singled out Grant Shapps for criticism, as he said the former defence secretary grounded his private jet to save face and wrongly accused him of being one of Putins cronies. Eugene Shvidler singled out former defence secretary Grant Shapps for criticism - Tolga Akmen/Shutterstock The Moscow-born oil tycoon, who now lives in the US but remains a British citizen, said: The Governments decision-making on who to sanction is often not about targeting those who really have supported and benefited from the Russian state, but more about cheap virtue-signalling for purely political purposes. Orwellian approach His comments come after the Supreme Court rejected Mr Shvidlers bid to repeal the sanctions on Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In taking his case to Britains highest court, Mr Schvidler claimed the sanctions imposed on him were disproportionate considering he had never had any involvement in Russian politics and had left the country in 1989. He also argued that the sanctions breached his rights under the European Convention of Human Rights, partly on the basis that he had little influence over Mr Putins decision-making. However, the Supreme Court found against Mr Schvidler after ruling that the sanctions were justified in trying to stop the war in Ukraine. In particular, it said they could send a signal to the Russian elite. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The top court added that while there is no doubt that the measures have had a severe, open-ended and drastic effect on Mr Shvidler and his family, such harsh sanctions are needed to be effective. Yet not all of the five Supreme Court judges agreed. In a dissenting judgment, Lord Leggatt said ministers had taken an Orwellian approach by freezing Mr Shvidlers assets in the hope that he would speak out in support of government policy. Lord Leggatt also criticised a series of social media posts sent out by Mr Shapps in which he described Mr Schvidler as a Putin ally. These aspersions were all baseless, he said. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Behind a car repair business on a nondescript Thai street are the cherished pets of a rising TikTok animal influencer: two lions and a 200-kilogram lion-tiger hybrid called "Big George." Lion ownership is legal in Thailand, and Tharnuwarht Plengkemratch is an enthusiastic advocate, posting updates on his feline companions to nearly three million followers. "They're playful and affectionate, just like dogs or cats," he told AFP from inside their cage complex at his home in the northern city of Chiang Mai. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thailand's captive lion population has exploded in recent years, with nearly 500 registered in zoos, breeding farms, petting cafes and homes. Experts warn the trend endangers animals and humans, stretches authorities and likely fuels illicit trade domestically and abroad. "It's absolute madness," said Tom Taylor, chief operating officer of conservation group Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand. "It's terrifying to imagine, if the laws aren't changed, what the situation is going to be in 10 years." The boom is fueled by social media, where owners like Tharnuwarht post light-hearted content and glamour shots with lions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I wanted to show people... that lions can actually bond well with humans," he said, insisting he plays regularly with his pets. He entered Big George's enclosure tentatively though, spending just a few minutes being batted by the tawny striped liger's hefty paws before retreating behind a fence. Since 2022, Thai law has required owners to register and microchip lions, and inform authorities before moving them. But there are no breeding caps, few enclosure or welfare requirements, and no controls on liger or tigon hybrids. Births of protected native species like tigers must be reported within 24 hours. Lion owners have 60 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That is a huge window," said Taylor. "What could be done with a litter of cubs in those 60 days? Anything." - Illicit trade - Taylor and his colleagues have tracked the rise in lion ownership with on-site visits and by trawling social media. They recorded around 130 in 2018, and nearly 450 by 2024. But nearly 350 more lions they encountered were "lost to follow-up" after their whereabouts could not be confirmed for a year. That could indicate unreported deaths, an animal removed from display or "worst-case scenarios", said Taylor. "We have interviewed traders (in the region) who have given us prices for live and dead lions and have told us they can take them over the border." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a vulnerable species, lions and their parts can only be sold internationally with so-called CITES permits. But there is circumstantial evidence of illicit trade, several experts told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity to avoid angering authorities. Media reports and social media have documented lions, including cubs, in Cambodia multiple times in recent years, though CITES shows no registered imports since 2003. There is also growing evidence that captive lion numbers in Laos exceed CITES import licences. In Thailand, meanwhile, imports of lion parts like bones, skins and teeth have dropped in recent years, though demand remains, raising questions about how parts are now being sourced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thai trader Pathamawadee Janpithak started in the crocodile business, but pivoted to lions as prices for the reptiles declined. "It gradually became a full-fledged business that I couldn't step away from," the gregarious 32-year-old told AFP in front of a row of caged cubs. She sells one-month-olds for around 500,000 baht ($15,500), down from a peak of 800,000 baht as breeding operations like hers increase supply. Captive lions are generally fed around two kilograms (4.4 pounds) of chicken carcasses a day, and can produce litters of two to six cubs, once or twice a year. Pathamawadee's three facilities house around 80 lions, from a stately full-maned nine-year-old to a sickly pair of eight-day-olds being bottle-fed around the clock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They are white because of a genetic mutation, and the smaller pool of white lions means inbreeding and sickness are common. Sometimes wrongly considered a "threatened" subspecies, they are popular in Thailand, but a month-old white cub being reared alongside the newborns has been sick almost since birth. It has attracted no buyers so far and will be unbreedable, Pathamawadee said. She lamented the increasing difficulty of finding buyers willing to comply with ownership rules. "In the past, people could just put down money and walk away with a lion... Everything has become more complicated." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - Legal review - Pathamawadee sells around half of the 90 cubs she breeds each year, often to other breeders, who are increasingly opening "lion cafes" where customers pose with and pet young lions. Outside Chiang Mai, a handler roused a cub from a nap to play with a group of squealing Chinese tourists. Staff let AFP film the interaction, but like all lion cafes contacted, declined interviews. Pathamawadee no longer sells to cafes, which tend to offload cubs within weeks as they grow. She said several were returned to her traumatised and no longer suitable for breeding. The growing lion population is a problem for Thailand's Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), admitted wildlife protection director Sadudee Punpugdee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But private ownership has existed for a long time... so we're taking a gradual approach," he told AFP. That includes limiting lion imports so breeders are forced to rely on the domestic population. "With inbreeding on the rise, the quality of the lions is also declining and we believe that demand will decrease as a result," Sadudee said. Already stretched authorities face difficult choices on enforcing regulations, as confiscated animals become their responsibility, said Penthai Siriwat, illegal wildlife trade specialist at WWF Thailand. "There is a great deal of deliberation before intervening... considering the substantial costs," she told AFP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Owners like Tharnuwarht often evoke conservation to justify their pets, but Thailand's captive lions will never live in the wild. Two-year-olds Khanom and Khanun live in a DNP sanctuary after being confiscated from a cafe and private owner over improper paperwork. They could survive another decade or more, and require specialised keepers, food and care. Sanctuary chief vet Natanon Panpeth treads carefully while discussing the lion trade, warning only that the "well-being of the animals should always come first". Big cat ownership has been banned in the United States and United Arab Emirates in recent years, and Thailand's wildlife rules are soon up for review. Sadudee is hopeful some provisions may be tightened, though a ban is unlikely for now. He has his own advice for would-be owners: "Wild animals belong in the wild. There are plenty of other animals we can keep as pets." ci-sah/sco/lb ROME, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) If there was only one-way Christian Mercurio would want to remember his son Stone, it would be on a skateboard. He spent a lot of time in the driveway or all over Rome with these guys, just looking for places to skate, Mercurio said. They say if you dont have a skate park in your community, then your whole community becomes a skate park. So to honor his son, he decided to build a skate park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What weve built here is a pretty old school park. Its pretty rad. It has pretty challenging features, Mercurio said. Its really a place where people could be part of a community. Its safe, accessible, and free. The park cost over a million dollars to build. Stones father and friends want this to be a place where teenagers can hang out, as they continue to raise awareness about mental health. The reason why we went with the colors blue and purple is it correlates to suicide prevention, which is the reason why we lost Stone, said Brendan Gannon, one of Stones friends. Its super unfortunate, but thats the reason why we have this park. Its in his honor and how important mental health is, Gannon said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Romes mayor personally knows the Mercurio family and helped finish the project with leftover ARPA funding. I think it is absolutely amazing. They really took a tragedy and hard times they went through, and they turned into something positive for our community and positive for these kids, Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan said. This is absolutely amazing to walk around and honestly, from the road it doesnt look as big until you get in here. Then you go, holy cow. There isnt anything of this magnitude in the area. On Friday, August 9 the SFM Skate Park will be hosting a spike ball tournament in honor of Stone. A ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the park will take place on Friday, August 22, which is also Stones birthday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR. The American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee has sued the Bartlett Board of Mayor and Aldermen in Shelby County for denying construction of a mosque despite support from the city's economic development director. (Photo: Getty Images) The American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee filed a religious discrimination suit Friday against the Bartlett Board of Mayor and Aldermen for turning down plans by the Bartlett Muslim Society to build a mosque. Nashville attorney Daniel Horwitz joined the ACLU-Tennessee in suing the city board for rejecting a special-use permit for mosque construction, even after the Bartlett Planning Commission required an extensive traffic impact study that found the building would have no adverse effect on local streets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a clear case of interference with religious freedoms cloaked in bureaucratic language, said Stella Yarbrough, ACLU-Tennessee legal director, in a release. The facts dont support the permit denial, but they do reveal something deeper an attempt to restrict a communitys religious practices based on who they are. Bartletts Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend denying the Muslim Societys application for a special-use permit to build the mosque on eight acres it purchased. The group wants to move out of a leased building that doesnt have enough space to accommodate the congregations worship needs or those related to Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer and reflection in the Islamic religion. The rejection came even though the citys planning and economic development director backed approval and the commission approved similar permit requests for Christian churches. ACLU-Tennessees lawsuit says the city violated the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act and the First Amendments Free Exercise Clause. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have tried very hard to work with the city and have responded to any and all concerns raised, yet we were still denied a permit, said Badrul Hossain, Bartlett Muslim Society board president. Sadly, we had no choice but to file this lawsuit in order to continue practicing our faith. Horwitz said targeting one faith group through zoning without subjecting other groups to the restrictions is illegal. Bartlett officials had not been served with the lawsuit Friday and had no comment, a spokesperson said. The lawsuit says residents who spoke against a special-use permit for the mosque expressed animosity toward the Islamic faith. It also says Vice Mayor Jack Young, a member of the planning commission, admitted his decision to vote against mosque construction had nothing to do with traffic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It doesnt matter to me about a study. I actually live through it, Young said, according to the filing. The Muslim Society bought 8.2 acres on Broadway Road for $167,000 to construct a 5,000-square-foot mosque with 165 parking spaces. The group also spent $36,000 on land improvements and paid $20,000 for the parking study, in addition to agreeing to reduce parking to 52 spaces, before being rejected. Bartlett mosque complaint_redacted SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX By David Shepardson WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The interim head of NASA, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, said on Tuesday he is looking to find common ground with Russia on space issues when he meets with his Russian counterpart later this week. Russian news agencies reported earlier this week that Duffy is set to hold talks with the head of Russian space agency Roscosmos, Dmitry Bakanov, for the first in-person meeting at the agencies' heads' level since 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have wild disagreement with the Russians on Ukraine," Duffy told reporters after an event on Capitol Hill, while noting that the United States has a partnership with Russia on the International Space Station. "We're going to continue to build alliances and partnerships and friendships as humanity continues to advance in space exploration." President Donald Trump named Duffy as NASA's interim head earlier this month. Duffy has emphasized that this is a temporary assignment. "We find points of agreement, points of partnership, which is what we have with the International Space Station and the Russians," Duffy said. "Through hard times, we don't throw those relationships away." Duffy is headed to Cape Canaveral, Florida on Wednesday for meetings and to attend the scheduled launch of the SpaceX Crew-11 flight this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The space program is one of the few international projects on which the United States and Russia still cooperate closely. Relations in other areas between the two countries have broken down since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. "We plan to discuss the continuation of the cross-flight program, the extension of the International Space Station's operational life, and the work of the Russia-U.S. joint task force on the future safe deorbiting and controlled ocean disposal of the ISS," TASS cited Bakanov as saying in the Roscosmos statement. The last meeting between the heads of Roscosmos and NASA took place in October 2018, when Dmitry Rogozin, then director general of Roscosmos, met NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine in person also at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. (Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Leslie Adler and Bill Berkrot) Her skeleton lay in the open air. When they first approached the site, in the desert of Sunland Park, New Mexico, in August 2024, the volunteer search party found a body dispersed across the landscape, a rib here, a leg bone there. An intact jawbone sat crooked on the ground. The scene was tragic, but all too commonplace. Over the past three years, the Battalion Search and Rescue group has documented an exponential rise in skeletal remains belonging to migrants, found near a New Mexico suburb. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The area is a triangle of desert, just 25 square miles, where two borders meet: U.S.-Mexico and Texas-New Mexico, a 20-minute drive from El Paso, Texas. In the past three years, volunteer search parties and authorities have found over 500 human bodies here, on U.S. soil. The remains belong to migrants who walked through the desert with smugglers, and ostensibly died of dehydration after crossing the border. Most are desperate people, fleeing violence or persecution, risking their lives for a better future. Local immigrant advocacy organizations argue that restrictive asylum policies, enacted first under Joe Biden and now under Donald Trump, are driving these deaths, while systemic negligence from local authorities hides them from view. This particular skeleton sat in the dust for over a year. It belonged to a 31-year-old woman named Ada Guadalupe Lopez Montoya, who traveled to the border from rural El Salvador in June 2023, with her husband and toddler, seeking safety in the United States. Unlike most remains found in the area, Adas skeleton was successfully identified because the search group found her ID near the bones. I have spent the past year piecing together her story in an effort to understand why she and so many others have died here. Two years ago, Ada, her husband, Reynaldo, and their three-year-old son traveled 2,000 miles from San Salvador to Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, in just 10 days, hidden in smugglers vehicles, bribing their way through Guatemalan and Mexican immigration checkpoints. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But when they got to Juarez, their last stop before entering the U.S., the smugglers went off script. Something was off from the start, Adas sister, Pati Montoya, says in an interview. The coyotes informed the migrants that their family would need to split up. Each would cross into the United States through varied channels over a period of several days. Separating was something the couple vowed they would never do. There was another catch: The couple would need to pay an extra $2,000 if they wanted their toddler to cross the border in the safest manner possible. Without options, the pair acquiesced, miserably. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the new plan, Adas husband, Reynaldo, would walk first through the desert with a group of other migrants and wait in a safehouse in El Paso. Then, a few days later, their son would slip through a vehicle checkpoint, posing as the child of a U.S. citizen. Ada would be last to cross the border, alone with the smuggler. On the eve of her departure, Ada called Pati, back in El Salvador, to say she was afraid the hike through the desert would be too strenuous. The unexpected separation from her husband and son, the continued stress of trusting shifty smugglers, the possibility of being caught by Border Patrol agents, all had knotted together into panic. I dont think Im going to make it, she said through tears. On June 27, 2023, temperatures neared 110 degrees. Ada sent a text message to Pati, at 1:30 p.m., saying she was about to cross the border. This was the last time she would communicate with her family. When Ada did not arrive at the safehouse that night, the coyotes told Reynaldo that she had been picked up by Border Patrol agents in the desert after crossing over the border wall. After a few days, they stopped responding to the familys questions. In the weeks and months that followed, Adas family endured a painful combination of grief and disbelief. They contacted a Mexican organization called Armadillos that puts out social media alerts about missing migrants. After Adas image was posted on Facebook, the family received messages from unknown numbers, promising information on Adas whereabouts, for a fee. These people offered photo evidence, and the family paid several hundred dollars to one man, who then went silent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adas husband, Reynaldo, and their son moved in with relatives in Los Angeles and attempted to assimilate as new, undocumented arrivals, while contending with Adas loss, without knowing what became of her. She simply hadnt shown up at the meeting point. Sometimes I would think theres no way shes alive, Reynaldo says in an interview. Because identifying documents are so rarely found in the desert, most families never learn what happened to their missing loved ones who disappear at the border. The Montoya family waited for two years for confirmation of Adas death, delivered through a collective effort between Battalion Search and Rescue, the Armadillos search group, and me. Have Faith Ada would have been unaccustomed to media attention, though she was something of a local celebrity in the hamlet where she grew up: She was the woman who made the best tortillas. She had that touch not just anyone can flip tortillas, her sister Pati says in an interview in her home in El Salvador. When I helped her at the tortilla stand, people would approach me, mistaking me for her. She made lots of friends, she would talk to anyone and everyone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Montoya family has lived for generations in a caserio, a few cinder block houses with corrugated tin roofs, off a narrow back road, an hour and a half outside San Salvador. Ada was one of 10 children, and she grew up tossed from one family members home to another. She started working after finishing the sixth grade. She never had childhood dreams, Pati says. What dream could she have had? El Salvador in the 90s and early 2000s was consumed by gang violence that touched every community, no matter how rural. In 2018, Pati says, during the last few years of the gang wars, Ada would find herself imprisoned for 72 hours by local police she was falsely accused of being a gang member. The charges were dismissed by a judge, but at the hearing, over 100 people showed up to express their support for the tortilla maker. In 2019, Nayib Bukele, a far-right authoritarian, assumed the presidency in El Salvador. He issued a state of exception in 2022, effectively pausing due process meaning that anyone picked up by the police could be imprisoned for any length of time without trial. Over the next two years, authorities arrested 80,000 people, who became a shadow, carceral population, confined to maximum security prisons with no means of contacting family and no legal process with which to appeal their sentences. There was an immediate decline in gang violence, so despite the young men missing from nearly every community many if not the majority of them innocent of any crimes Bukele retains near universal approval in El Salvador. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In early 2023, rumors spread through the village that anyone with a prior criminal charge would soon be rounded up by the local police, even if the charge had been overturned by a judge. The prison sentence would be at least 10 years. Ada and the others implicated in the 2018 complaint began, one by one, to flee. One of Adas brothers found the contact of a smuggler, and the siblings put their mothers house up as collateral for a loan so Ada, her husband, and son could have the $44,000 dollars necessary to make it to the United States. Ada was attempting to escape a future in the same Salvadoran prison system where President Donald Trump famously sent a group of 250 Venezuelan migrants without due process, and against their will, in March. The last anyone knows of Adas mental state in the final days of her life is from her phone calls with Pati. Once she was separated from her husband, Reynaldo, they could not communicate, except through proof-of-life videos sent by the smugglers. Alone in Ciudad Juarez, Pati says, Ada began to suffer from hunger pangs, and the coyote was in a state of volatile annoyance, because Ada had protested about the separation from her husband and son. Ada implied that the coyote was also drugged. There were no other migrants slated to cross the border on June 27. For the duration of the hike through the desert, she would be alone with the smuggler. I told her everything was going to be OK, and to have faith, Pati says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the hours before she died, Adas goal was to get over the border wall and walk between three and five miles through the open desert, from the wall to a pickup point, a suburban parking lot, where a getaway car would be waiting. It is in this no mans land between the border wall and the suburbs, on U.S. soil where the bodies are found. Adas death was part of a larger pattern. For the past two years, local nonprofit No More Deaths has marked each discovery of human remains at the Texas-New Mexico border on a map with a red dot. Now, a triangle glows next to Sunland Park. Bryce Peterson, a volunteer with the nonprofit, started making the map in the summer of 2023, but says the deaths began to spike the previous year. He says that 2022 was the beginning of this kind of explosion, describing the territory as a black hole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator has tripled their staff of medical examiners to account for the hundreds of skeletons found at the border. Sometimes a body is just a single bone, the search groups explain. Sometimes it has eyes and hair, and was alive just days before. Occasionally, two skeletons are found together, side by side. Nearby, there is often clothing, miscellaneous personal items like watches and hairbrushes, and bottles of water. Sometimes, bodies are found in the backyards of suburban homes. In the town, in areas where people are on ATVs and walking around, and where there are buildings, there are skeletal remains, Peterson says. This area is one of the shortest and flattest smuggling routes at the U.S. border, but temperatures top 100 degrees through the summer. And the terrain is a hall of mirrors. The ground, which is a uniform khaki, erupts into small dunes, but there are no visible hills which could be used to aid in navigation. There are dry shrubs, but no trees to provide shade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The migrants who cross through this territory also need to avoid Border Patrol agents and their surveillance technologies, which include footprint tracking, AI imaging towers, and even a blimp. On an average day, Border Patrol picks up anywhere from zero to 500 migrants in this area to be deported to their home countries. Since Trumps inauguration, the numbers have been very low. The border wall is 30 feet high, and coyotes either use rope ladders to go over the top, or cut square tunnels through the metal grating between the bars, leaving quilt-like patches on its surface. After she made it over the border wall, Ada would have begun to trudge through the dust of the triangle in the 106-degree afternoon heat, past the cattle ranches, past the AI surveillance towers, past the discarded hoodies and water bottles left by migrants. She may have walked past other migrants remains. The soil is very sandy. When you walk out there, its going to pull at your feet, its going to fill up your shoes, says Abbey Carpenter, one of the leaders of the Battalion Search and Rescue brigade. Near the wall, Ada might have encountered a metal beacon with a sign in both English and Spanish saying: If you need help, push the red button. Border Patrol will arrive shortly. Do not leave the area. Between three and four miles in, something must have changed. Maybe she twisted her ankle, or developed sunstroke, or encountered a snake. Maybe she was severely dehydrated and fatigued. Whatever it was, she needed to move more slowly, and that wasnt going to work for the coyote, whose objective was to transport her through the territory as quickly as possible without getting caught. The smuggler, a Mexican national, could have faced prison time as well as deportation if caught by U.S. authorities and charged with human trafficking. In the weeks that followed Adas disappearance, her family made contact with the coyote. He sent a text saying Ada didnt want to walk and he wasnt a babysitter, insinuating that he had left her behind. They treat you almost like an object, says Reynaldo, Adas husband. Suddenly, Ada was alone in the desert. She was just a mile and a half from the highway, and three miles from the suburbs. We dont know if she attempted to find help, or if she was physically incapacitated. Pati believes the coyote may have killed her himself. Cesar Ortigoza, one of the leaders of the Armadillos search group, describes the place where the skeleton was found as lonely, with very little shade, just a small bush, and few signs of civilization nearby. The medical examiners, in their report, said the site was vacant. Pati stayed up all night, waiting for confirmation that Ada had arrived and made contact with their sister Isabel, but the call never came. In a safehouse in New Mexico, the coyotes told Reynaldo that Ada had been picked up by Border Patrol. They made so many excuses, he says. But months after the disappearance, he continued to believe she might be in custody and unable to communicate. She was already on this side, Reynaldo explains. And that area of New Mexico is so heavily patrolled. Sometimes I feel like Im in denial. But she would have found a way to communicate with us by now, Pati tells me in December 2024. A 2021 study estimated it would take a non-pregnant woman, on average, a day and a half to die of dehydration in the conditions of the borderlands in summer. Much of that time would be spent moving in and out of a tenuous consciousness, swimming through overlapping states of euphoria, confusion, loss of identity, and a fragmented sense of time and place. There would be an incremental shutdown of bodily functions. At some time between June 27 and June 29, 2023, Adas body became one with the sand. Identifying Ada It takes three to six months for human remains to skeletonize in the desert, and by that point, a forensic anthropologist can tell general age and biological sex, but all evidence that could be used to determine a cause of death has been forfeited to the air. Its just unbelievably dry. Birds, coyotes, animals will get to things really quickly its like a solar oven, says Peterson, the No More Deaths volunteer. The members of Battalion Search and Rescue are not forensic anthropologists, but when they found Adas bones in August 2024, they thought the skeleton belonged to a woman. Sitting in the dust, at some distance, was a purple backpack. James Holeman and Abbey Carpenter, the pair of retirees who leads the brigade, said many of the skeletons in the desert look, in terms of the aesthetics of their clothing and other items, like they might belong to women. No More Deaths reported the same findings in their database, which includes the sites found by authorities as well as search groups: Between 2022 and 2024, over 55 percent of remains found in the triangle were female, compared to 18 percent in previous years (similar to other sections of the border, where the vast majority of remains belong to men). Peterson calls the number astonishing. Local Border Patrol agents estimate that 85 percent of the migrants they encounter in the area are single men, so for Holeman and Carpenter, the growing prevalence of womens items, like bras, jewelry, and hair ties, accompanying the bones, raised questions. Heidi Cerneka, a lawyer representing trafficking victims in El Paso, says in recent years she has met at least three clients, young women from Mexico and Central America, who were drugged in this area of the New Mexico desert and deposited at ranches where they endured abuse at the hands of American clientele. But Cerneka does not believe most of the skeletons belong to trafficking victims. Battalion Search and Rescue and local Border Patrol officers say it is more likely the deaths in the triangle are cases of abandonment, migrants left behind by their smugglers when they are unable to walk fast enough to keep up with a group and evade authorities. Landon Hutchins, a Border Patrol spokesman, says that sometimes the coyotes even confiscate water, to ensure a slow migrant will die quickly, protecting a smuggling route from detection. Weve found children as young as one-year-olds abandoned, he says. In the post-pandemic era, demand for smuggling is high as migrants flee violence and economic pressures across Latin America. Criminal groups in nearby Juarez, Mexico, are inundated with business (making $10,000 to $20,000 per person), and slower migrants, a higher percentage of them women, could be falling through the cracks. It doesnt matter to the cartel if a migrant makes it in one piece: They have already paid. Desperate people arrive in Juarez exhausted, and migrants who have stayed in cartel safehouses say they are given one can of food a day. Theyre holding crossers for longer on the other side, local Sheriff Kim Stewart says in an interview. Theyre dehydrated, they havent eaten for days. Hutchins said people are expiring within a mile of beginning their hike from the wall, dying from a combination of heat, fatigue, and the smugglers disregard for human life. Battalion Search and Rescue says this indifference toward the lives of migrants is not exclusive to the coyotes, but touches local authorities and the general public as well, as if the human remains were part of the natural landscape, the deaths a part of some inevitable cycle. When migrants die, Battalion Search and Rescue says, there is no incentive for New Mexico authorities to remove the bones. Holeman and Carpenter returned to the site where they found Adas skeleton in September 2024, a month after they reported it to the authorities, and medical examiners had not yet arrived to retrieve the remains. Twisted on the ground was a pair of black Adidas track pants. Holeman says he could tell, from the smell of decay, that the deceased had been wearing them. In the process of decomposition, which is often aided by wild animals, the bones had found their way out. In one pocket of the pants was a wallet, bearing a Salvadoran ID. The face was blurred, after a year melting in the desert, but you could still make out Adas name. It is rare, Holeman says, but sometimes the search group finds identifying information degrading alongside its owner IDs, passports, birth certificates, their colors running together in the heat. They serve as haunting evidence that the bones found in the desert belonged to real people. Theres no mention [in the media] of what we find in the desert, which is like bibles, and love notes, and keychains with pictures of little kids, and all these clothes, Holeman says. Instead, what Americans hear is all this invasion bullshit, he adds, referring to the right-wing talking point, espoused by Trump and conservative media, that migrants are war-hardened criminals, rather than everyday people fighting to survive. Holeman and Carpenter have noticed a pattern when they return to sites previously reported to authorities: There are always bones left behind. Im not talking about teeny tiny bone fragments. Im talking like big femurs and jawbones, Holeman says. Holeman and Carpenter see this behavior as part of a broader carelessness toward the lives of migrants on the part of authorities. Sometimes, Carpenter says, when they call in a discovery, deputies from the Sheriffs Office say they dont have the appropriate vehicles available. Carpenter makes a point of driving across the desert in her Prius. The couple, along with a group of volunteers, does one search each month in the New Mexico borderlands, often walking up to 10 miles through the desert in tight switchbacks. They have found 24 bodies in the past 18 months. Holeman, a 59-year-old former marine, sees Battalion Search and Rescue as a form of vigilante justice against a broken and oppressive system. I was in the military, and this is exactly what we do: We dehumanize a group, a country, its citizens, make a face for them, so its OK to kill them lots of them. This is the kind of language in the approach to migrants now, where theyre dying by the thousands and were just turning our backs because theyve been othered so successfully, Holeman says. Last fall, the emotional weight of what he had discovered over years in the desert, and the isolation implied by the authorities neglect of the sites he found, began to take their toll on Holeman, who started taking antidepressants to cope. Its an incredible, awful, open graveyard, he says. But U.S. authorities are not the only forces of negligence. In September 2024, Holeman says he contacted the Salvadoran embassy about Adas ID. The embassy went on to tell the Montoya family that the bones were already in their custody, when in reality, the bones were still sitting in the dust. They would not be removed until November 2024, three months after they were found. The medical examiners report said they collected two femurs, a tibia, a mandible, several ribs, and a few smaller bones, as well as a mat of dark hair, a pair of pants, a wallet, two cellphones, and a sock. For five months, Adas body waited in purgatory, caught between competing bureaucracies. Isabel Montoya, one of Adas sisters, still believed it was possible another migrant stole Adas pants, with the ID inside, and died in them, while Ada remained alive, but pantless. But on April 16, a DNA test confirmed that the remains belonged to Ada. Three weeks later, when I obtained a record of the test, the Salvadoran government had not yet revealed the result to the Montoya family. The past few months, I still hoped she was alive, Pati tells me. Pati says she doesnt know what to do with Adas home, now that her death is confirmed. I think Ill just leave everything where it is, she says. Though it has been two years, Ada and Reynaldos home in El Salvador appears as if they left the day before. The half-open suitcases and trash bags full of clothing and childrens toys imply a frantic rush to pack. There are photographs from every stage of Adas life, lying face-up on a shelf, a womans slippers, sitting on a plastic rack, and a childs toy car, nestled in the weeds outside. Repatriating Adas bones will be another bureaucratic odyssey, but the family plans to bury her in the local cemetery. In a few years, Reynaldo says, he will tell his son the full truth but for now, his mother cant be there with him right now, but is in a nice place, where God is protecting her. No Excuse Peterson, the No More Deaths volunteer, refers to that summer of 2023 as deadly, because so many remains, a total of 73, were found in the Sunland Park area. No More Deaths published a report in March 2024, arguing that the rise in migrant deaths in Sunland Park, and the overrepresentation of women among the deceased, was the result of the Biden administrations restrictive asylum policies. Nearly a million people traveled to the Juarez-El Paso borderline between January 2022 and December 2024, to ask the U.S. government for shelter and protection. Many were families with small children, fleeing violence and economic instability in their home countries. When it became functionally difficult to seek asylum due to restrictive policies, more migrants were pushed into the hands of smugglers. Peterson believes many of the people who walked through the triangle over the past three years never intended to cross the desert in the first place instead, it was a last-ditch effort to bypass the asylum process altogether, he says. In June 2024, Biden signed an executive order limiting all access to the asylum process between ports of entry, the primary way migrants were asking for asylum. On Trumps first day in office, the president signed an order freezing asylum access altogether, even at official ports. Now, there is no path to seek asylum in the United States, a reality most experts agree contradicts both national and international law. In its 2024 report, the United Nations Missing Migrants Project wrote: Migrant deaths and disappearances are preventable. The unprecedented number of lives lost in the last two years, and the fact that more than half of all missing migrants recorded since 2014 are linked to crisis-affected countries, bear witness to one of the greatest political failures of modern times. Local Border Patrol agents say that since Biden signed the fateful executive order in June 2024, and further since Trump was inaugurated, migration through the triangle has trickled to a near standstill. Morale is high, says Hutchins, the Border Patrol spokesman. Now we can focus on interior enforcement. But Peterson notes that the beginning of the first Trump administration saw a similar decline, and then people began crossing the border again, out of pure necessity. He worries that summer 2025 will see the beginning of a new wave, and hundreds more could die in the triangle. Hundreds more people like Ada, abandoned by impatient smugglers, lost, and evaporating into the beige of the desert. But this year, the community is watching. Alarmed by the volume of remains discovered, the local Catholic Church began organizing water bottle drops in the triangle, and in January, the El Paso County Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a resolution facilitating solutions to address the deaths. The territory is also facing new challenges. In April, President Trump designated a 170-mile strip of the border wall, including the base of the triangle, as part of the New Mexico National Defense Area, transferring the land from the Bureau of Land Management to the military. Sheriff Stewart says this decision has disrupted the work of every agency in the New Mexican borderlands. We operate by hard and fast rules, and when there are none, were all just kind of staring at each other, she says. The sheriff is certain a tragedy will occur as a result, like someone falling off the wall and dying, and none of the authorities present knowing who to call. Theres no excuse, she says. Trump also authorized troops to detain migrants within the military zone as part of their official capacity. Hundreds of migrants have already been arrested on double trespassing charges, though in June, a judge dismissed over a hundred of these charges. Any illegal attempting to enter that zone is entering a military base, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said in an announcement on social media platforms. When people talk about illegal crossings, whats illegal is us forcing them to make the choice to cross over the wall through the desert, says Cerneka, the lawyer representing trafficking victims. A certain number of them will die, and thats supposed to make the rest of them not want to do it, but the power of desperation and hope cannot be underestimated. Hundreds of unidentified remains found in the triangle remain in storage, unclaimed, and hundreds more, likely, sit on the desert floor, and may never be discovered. More bodies are out there. On a recent expedition, Holeman and Carpenter found another skeleton. Nearby, in the dust, was a set of womens synthetic hair extensions. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. South Koreas SK Nexilis Company has agreed to supply local battery electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer LG Energy Solution Company (LGES) with up to KRW 3 trillion (US$ 2.2 billion) worth of copper foil over the next 5-6 years, according to unconfirmed local reports. Copper foil is a key component of EV batteries, used mainly as separator material between cathodes and anodes. This is understood to have been the first deal signed between the two companies in the last five years, after LGES and LG Chem ceased signing new business with SK Groups SK On, SK Nexilis and SKIET, following a dispute over alleged leaks of trade secrets in 2020. Local officials have suggested that the thaw in relations between the two sides is due mainly to growing pressure for South Korea battery manufacturers to reduce their dependence on Chinese supply chains, as they look to expand their businesses in the US. A local industry official told reporters the relationship between the two companies has improved under the current management. The Trump administrations supply chain policy of decoupling from China led them to renew their supply deal. An SK Nexilis official confirmed that his company had held new talks with LGES, but did not confirm the agreement. "LGES signs new copper foil deal with SK Nexilis" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand. OUACHITA COUNTY, Ark Officials with the Ouachita County Sheriffs Office have released additional information on a homicide and arrests that took place over the weekend. Officials said an investigation is currently underway into the death of 18-year-old Braden Roberson. The investigation began on Friday as a search for a missing person, but became a homicide investigation on Saturday, according to officials. Camden investigation changes from missing person to homicide Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additional information includes suspects names and details of Robersons disappearance. Sheriffs office officials said Roberson left home on Thursday night to meet with his ex-girlfriend to discuss their relationship. A relative of the family confirmed that the three taken into custody on Saturday include the ex-girlfriend, Melanie Pipkin. She was arrested along with Bryson Vaughan in Bossier City, Louisiana. Also arrested was Cameron Hildebrand in Union County. The three are facing charges of capital murder, abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence, according to sheriffs office officials. Robersons body was found in a wooded area in Union County near Norphlet on July 28, sheriffs officials said. Camden police officials said Monday the initial incident was a conflict at Sandy Beach Park on Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police officials did not classify the nature of the conflict. Arkansas State Police release sketch of person of interest in Devils Den double homicide case Sheriffs department officials said the investigation was undertaken with the Camden Police Department and the Arkansas State Police. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) The National Transportation and Safety Board is now investigating after six people were killed in a multi-vehicle crash over the weekend on I-485. The North Carolina Highway Safety Patrol said two vehicles had an accident that forced them underneath a tractor-trailer on the shoulder of the highway. Marianne Karth from Raleigh lost two of her daughters in May 2013 in a similar situation. They were headed to a big family celebration and got slowed down in a backup on I-20 in Georgia. Their car went underneath the semi-truck. MORE | Family mourns losing relatives in I-485 crash that killed six I slowed down, and a truck driver did not, Karth said. He hit our car, and it spun us around, so we went backwards into the back of another tractor trailer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Karth said AnnaLeah died on impact, and Mary died a few days later from her injuries. Karth Family Courtesy: Georgia State Patrol Devon Bornschein is the General Manager at UPTime Truck & Fleet Parking. If we can do something to provide a space for those drivers to prevent something like that from happening again, you know were more than happy to do so, Bornschein said. Semi-trucks are required federally to have underride guards on the back but not the sides. MORE | I-485 crash that killed six in Charlotte brings teen driving concerns to forefront Bornschein said the idea is that people in the vehicle would be safe from sliding completely underneath and stopping at the engine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its much more common for [a vehicle] to hit it on a rear-end collision, as you expect on the highway, which his why its there in the rear but you dont necessarily see them on the sides, Bornschein said. Is that a solution to the problem? I think it could help. In Karths case, the underride guard failed. With a stronger support system in place, she believes her story would be much different today, and her daughters could be here. Emergency vehicles on scene of the crash that killed six people on I-485 in Charlotte Saturday, July 26. According to officials, the reason why the semi-truck was parked on the interstate this weekend is part of the investigation. Karth will continue to fight to test underride safety on the sides of trailers so no more families have to endure what she lost. If that were installed, many crashes, many truck crashes could have different outcomes, Karth said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Karth is working on legislation to have a National Roadway Safety Advocate at the U.S. Department of Transportation and is asking for community feedback no later than August 20, 2025. You can read more about it here and about her familys story. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Transmission is just one of the costs going up in ratepayers' monthly bills, along with fuel and capacity charges, that add up to a "death by a thousand cuts," advocates and analysts say. (Photo courtesy U.S. Department of Energy.) Last weeks energy auction by multistate power grid operator PJM will cause monthly electric bills to go up $2 to $5 next summer but thats on top of other costs, for transmission, fuel and more, that one advocate calls death by a thousand cuts. Its also the latest evidence, say ratepayer advocates and policymakers, that policies of PJM, the grid operator in a 13-state region that includes Kentucky, are out of whack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The latest of the thousand cuts is mostly the result of energy-guzzling data centers, David Lapp, the Maryland Peoples Counsel, who is charged with representing state ratepayers in that state. Predictions for their proliferation are largely behind inflated projections of energy demand in PJM states, pushing demand past supply in the auction process, sending the price skyward. And ultimately, consumers pay the price. Its fundamentally unfair, Lapp said. Why should residential customers be responsible for costs being driven by some of the biggest and wealthiest corporations in the world? At the same time, consumer advocates say PJM policies have restricted supply, with a backlogged queue for energy projects, many of them renewable energy proposals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until theres actual queue reform, theres not going to be real relief, said Emily Scarr, a senior adviser for Maryland PIRG, or Public Interest Research Group. All eyes were on this years auction because last years was a blockbuster: The clearing price jumped 800% compared to the 2023 auction, setting a record for the most expensive such auction in PJM history. This years auction surpassed that record, but it was offset by policies that consumer advocates and some governors pushed PJM to adopt. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) was behind a new cap on the auctions clearing price. The auction hit the cap, saving consumers about $2.9 billion in total costs on their bills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As various parts of energy bills increase, grid decision-makers dont seem to be asking a key question, says Laurel Peltier, a low-income ratepayer advocate for the AARP: Can people afford this? During a news conference Tuesday, Stu Bresler, a PJM executive vice president of market services and strategy, said that auction costs are a small part of retail bills, and it also varies how auction costs translate into rate changes for consumers. But Peltier said that ignores key context. Thats like being in a bakery, and you know that the flour got more expensive, the butter got more expensive, the labor got more expensive, and youre the egg maker, and your eggs are 800% more, and youre like, Its OK. Its just a little part, Peltier said. Changes inside PJM? In a July 16 letter to PJM, a bipartisan group of nine governors in PJMs 13-state territory including Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said the moment presents an opportunity for change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the abrupt termination of two long-standing members of the Board of Managers and the imminent departure of the CEO, their replacements must understand the concerns of ratepayers facing rising costs, and create a more collaborative and more effective ethos at PJM, the governors wrote. In the past, other regions looked to join PJM due to its many strengths; today, across the region, discussions of leaving PJM are becoming increasingly common, read their letter. In a July 18 response, PJM Board of Managers Chairman David Mills pushed back. Our operators are keeping the lights on through some of the most challenging circumstances that any grid operator, anywhere, has faced in its history, he wrote. We also continue the necessary function of operating regional markets as well as planning for a grid that is seeing an explosion of demand growth at the same time that state and federal policies have pushed a meaningful amount of generation capacity into retirement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He listed a number of changes PJM has made to its auction to address concerns raised by our states, including the temporary cap. In a statement announcing the auction results Tuesday, PJM wrote that it continues to focus on enhancing its process for connecting new generation resources onto the system, which includes clearing all the projects in its transition queue over the next 18 months, opening its new cycle process in spring 2026, and leveraging artificial intelligence through our partnership with Google to reduce processing time. Regime change may help, but some advocates warn that more transformative change may be necessary to lower prices. That includes changing how the organization is governed, Lapp said. We and the 13 other state consumer advocate offices in PJM we get one vote. There are transmission-owning utilities that have more votes than us together, Lapp said. Its the transmission owners that wield the most influence at PJM. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those same companies generally lose out when more power generation comes online, Scarr said. The legacy power plants lose out when that happens but theyre the ones managing the ship, Scarr said. A spokesman for PJM pointed to a fact sheet describing the grid operators governance structure, which highlights that PJMs 10-member Board of Managers must not be financially tied to any PJM member. But on the members committee, which includes about 1,000 members, votes are divided between five industry sectors. State consumer advocates are the other voting members. Data center projections When he hears projection for data center demand Lapp said he worries they are overblown because technology could be advancing to increase power efficiency at the facilities, which are full of computer servers that require immense amounts of energy to run and to keep from overheating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats a major reason why data centers themselves should be footing the bill for their own power demand, and the upgrades to the power system they may require, Lapp said. If the data centers arent responsible for paying for all the costs that they are driving, they have much less incentive to find more computer chips, to operate more efficiently, to reduce their own costs, he said. Its PJMs job to change the paradigm, wherein ratepayers pay for enhancing the electric system, he said. Its an unprecedented period of time in the industry, when you have city-sized demand being built up in just a few years, Lapp said. You cant treat that the same as load growth gradually occurring over time. Maryland Matters is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Maryland Matters maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Steve Crane for questions: editor@marylandmatters.org. U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-South Dakota, fields questions during a roundtable discussion at Avera Behavioral Health Hospital in Sioux Falls on July 29, 2025. (Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight) SIOUX FALLS South Dakota health professionals and advocates are warning that new Medicaid work requirements could disrupt care for people struggling with substance use disorders and other behavioral health problems. Angela Kennecke, CEO of the addiction-focused nonprofit Emilys Hope, said people with a history of addiction often have criminal records. She said that means they face steep obstacles in the job market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you cant get a job, you lose coverage, she said. But without coverage, you cant get treatment. Thats the cycle were concerned about. Kennecke spoke to South Dakota Searchlight after a roundtable discussion organized by U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-South Dakota, on Tuesday at Avera Behavioral Health Hospital. Wyatt Urlacher, a clinical social worker with South Dakota Urban Indian Health, told the roundtable hes worried, and Im sure Im not the only one. The majority of my clients are covered by Medicaid, he said. Kim Malsam-Rysdon, Averas vice president of public policy and a former South Dakota secretary of health, talked with South Dakota Searchlight after the discussion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We know that people who have access to health insurance, whether thats Medicaid or anything else, are more likely to get the care they need earlier, Malsam-Rysdon said. So its a big concern for us when folks may lose their health care coverage for whatever reason. Medicaid is a federal-state program that pays for the health care of low-income people. Under the new federal policy in the Big Beautiful Bill Act, Medicaid recipients will be required to log 80 hours a month of work, job training, education or volunteering to keep their benefits. Johnson defended the new Medicaid requirements, highlighting the list of exemptions. What people dont understand is that seniors, young people, pregnant women, people with children, folks with disabilities, people in areas with high unemployment, veterans and tribal members are unaffected by the work requirement, Johnson said. Federal fallout As federal funding and systems dwindle, states are left to decide how and whether to make up the difference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read the latest > A March 3 analysis in the journal Health Affairs estimated that 2.29 million Medicaid enrollees with a substance use disorder in the U.S. would still be at high risk of losing coverage under a work requirement that includes exemptions for people with disabilities, those looking for work, or in school or training. That is largely due to the number of people with a substance use disorder who are unable to meet a work requirement. Taylor Clark, the operations supervisor at Choices Recovery Services in Sioux Falls, told South Dakota Searchlight that 95% of the people who seek care there are Medicaid recipients, and few of those people are employed. Clark said that without Medicaid for those seeking care, services may be in jeopardy. A $50 billion fund created by the bill to help rural providers deal with lost Medicaid reimbursements is expected to bring at least $500 million to South Dakota over five years. But Johnson said the money is temporary rather than permanent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is not a forever pot of money, Johnson told Searchlight. States should not use this to just fund ongoing operations. They need to ask themselves, How do we use this money to transition to a better system? Johnson said providers should invest in technologies to help deliver greater access to cost-effective health care. The Medicaid work requirement will take effect nationally at the end of 2026. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX At the border with Iran, Fatima Rezaei distributes food and hygiene products to Afghans forced to return, unable to passively stand by as the deportation crisis grows. The 22-year-old is one of many Afghan volunteers rallying to help their compatriots, despite having little themselves. Since the beginning of the year, more than 1.6 million Afghans, including many children, have returned after being deported or driven out of Iran, which accuses them of pushing up unemployment and crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It doesn't matter whether you have a lot of money or not. I don't have much, but with the help of Afghans here and abroad, we manage," said Rezaei. The number of crossings at the Islam Qala border has reached 30,000 on several days, peaking at 50,000 on July 4, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). In response, residents of the western region have mobilised, partly thanks to donations sent by Afghans living in Europe or North America. A journalist for a local television channel, Rezaei travels over 100 kilometres (62 miles) to reach the border from her hometown of Herat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From a stack of cardboard boxes, she distributes baby wipes and sanitary towels to women gathered under a tent and surrounded by around a dozen children. "It is our responsibility to stand by their side," she said. "The government tries to help, but it's not enough." International organisations are helping to register migrants but face massive budget cuts. Meanwhile, Taliban authorities struggle to support the influx of Afghans who have often left everything behind and returned to a country mired in poverty. - 'We have a duty' - Unemployed Hosna Salehi volunteers with her parents' charitable organisation, Khan-e-Meher, to distribute aid, such as infant formula. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Some women with young children tried to breastfeed but didn't have enough milk due to stress," she told AFP. "Our fellow Afghans need our support right now. We have a duty to give what we can, no matter if it is a little or a lot." The show of solidarity "makes us proud", said Ahmadullah Wassiq, director of Afghanistan's High Commission for Refugees. "The government cannot solve these problems alone," he acknowledged, "and the efforts of citizens must be applauded". The Taliban government says it provides money upon arrival and is establishing towns dedicated to returning Afghans, though it does not specify when they will be ready. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Herat, the nearest major city to the border, some in the most precarious circumstances have been living in parks in tents donated by residents. - 'Extended a hand' - Some said they were having to rebuild their lives after returning home. "The only thing we're worried about is finding work," said Hussein, 33, who spent more than 10 years in Iran. "There, they told us our papers were no longer valid. We had good jobs, now we need to find work and start from scratch," said the father-of-two, who was moved by the support he encountered on the Afghan side of the border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They really helped us and extended a hand," he said as he waited for a free bus to take him the nearly 1,000 kilometres to the capital Kabul. In Afghanistan, where half the population of around 48 million lives below the poverty line according to the World Bank, "there isn't much of a culture of volunteering", said 27-year-old Omid Haqjoo, as he prepared food in vast cooking pots. "But we are trying to promote it... to provide the support that is missing," he added. After a day of heat in the humanitarian tents at Islam Qala, Salehi felt strengthened by a "life lesson". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If I was able to help volunteer, I think everyone can," she said. "And when I go home and think of all the fellow Afghans who smiled at me and prayed for me, that's enough for me." str-cgo/sw/ecl/jfx/lb A SNAP welcomed here sign is seen at the entrance to a Big Lots store in Portland, Oregon. (Getty Images) Attorney General Keith Ellison is joining a lawsuit against the Trump administration after it asked states to share the personal information of food aid recipients. SNAP the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides food assistance to over 400,000 Minnesotans. The U.S. Department of Agriculture threatened to withhold the programs funding if states dont respond to the data request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit, which includes 20 other states and the District of Columbia, argues that the USDAs request violates federal privacy laws; doesnt meet public comment requirements; exceeds the USDAs authority; and violates the spending clause of the Constitution. The USDA made the data demand in May following a Trump executive order. The agency demanded information on all applicants and recipients of SNAP beginning five years ago including Social Security numbers and home addresses. A memo to state agencies said that the purpose of the data collection was to eliminate SNAP information silos and address fraud and inefficiency. According to the USDA website, SNAP has one of the most rigorous quality control systems in the federal government. This includes calculating payment error rates, which measure the accuracy of eligibility and benefit decisions. In 2024, Minnesota had an error rate of 8.98% compared to the national average of 10.93%. The USDA also plans to obtain information on immigration status eligibility. Immigrants without legal status cant participate in SNAP but could enroll other members of their household. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The USDAs order is part of a larger effort from the Trump administration to gather the personal data of Americans. The federal government has already shared some of this data with immigration enforcement. When our neighbors struggle to put food on the table, Minnesotans believe in lending a helping hand, Ellison said in a press release. Outrageously, the Trump Administration is now demanding sensitive personal information on the Minnesotans receiving help to feed themselves and their families so they can potentially weaponize it to harm people across our country. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee was forced to clarify that it had not actually un-endorsed Florida Representative Randy Fine for his grotesque statements wishing starvation on Palestinians. AIPAC responded Tuesday to a Times of Israel report claiming that the group appeared to have dropped its endorsement of Fine, after he went missing from the groups database of pro-Israel candidates. This reporting is based on an unsourced speculative piece, AIPAC wrote in a statement on X. We will be endorsing candidates for the 2026 election throughout the cycle. Current endorsees for 2026 so far are listed on the AIPAC-PAC website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Rep. Fine was elected only in April, consideration of his endorsement will take place later in the cycle, as is the case with many other freshmen members of Congress, the statement continued. It turns out that it was simply wishful thinking to believe that the pro-Israel action group would ever draw the line at cheerleading famineor advocating for violence against protesters. But AIPACs response doesnt quite add up. Its not clear why the group would choose only to list endorsees for 2026, and why Fine wouldnt be grandfathered in after earning the groups endorsement just four months ago. After all, the group did pour more than $126,000 into Fines campaign, according to FEC filings. Now they say they need more time to decide? Fines absence on AIPACs list was first observed by Usamah Andrabi, the communications director for Justice Democrats, a political action group working to see progressive Democrats elected to office. A group representing several major airlines alongside travel companies and airports is opposing a Senate bill that would require the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to generally use manual ID verification at security checkpoints instead of facial recognition. The bill, introduced by Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), would broadly restrict TSAs ability to use biometrics and facial recognition, carving out a few exemptions for the agencys PreCheck and other Trusted Traveler programs. Passengers may still opt in to the use of facial recognition at the checkpoint. In a letter Monday to Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), the air industry groups said the law was a step backward and that facial recognition technology made security screenings far more efficient. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The future of seamless and secure travel relies on the appropriate use of this technology to ensure security effectiveness and operational efficiency as daily travel volume continues to rise, they wrote. We are concerned that the vague and confusing exceptions to this blanket ban will have major consequences for the identity verification process, screening operations, and trusted traveler enrollment programs. Cruz and Cantwell are their parties highest-ranking members of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, which is scheduled to mark up the bill Wednesday. In addition to limiting the use of facial recognition, Merkleys bill would also require TSA to delete most images collected at checkpoints within 24 hours of a passengers departure. Travelers going through a TSA checkpoint are generally able to opt out of facial recognition, the agency says. Merkley has argued the agencys enforcement is inconsistent, posting on social media in February about his difficulties navigating the policy at Reagan Washington National Airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is big government coming to take away your privacy, trying to set up a national surveillance system, the Oregon Democrat said in February. The airlines, however, warned that restricting the use of facial recognition could slow down security and divert TSAs resources toward maintaining officer staffing, rather than focusing on automated innovations. The group also said it felt it had been insufficiently consulted on the legislation, despite the major impact the bill would have on aviation security, airports, airlines, travelers, and technology companies. The bill has gathered bipartisan support. In addition to Merkley, Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Steve Daines (R-Mont.) have signed on as cosponsors. The legislation, which was first introduced in May, comes as the Trump administration has rolled back TSAs long-standing policy of requiring travelers take off their shoes at checkpoints. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Daphne Psaledakis (Reuters) -A group affiliated with Al Qaeda has killed dozens of civilians and eight soldiers so far this year in Togo, the country's foreign minister told Reuters last week, in a rare official acknowledgement of the toll of rising attacks. Minister of Foreign Affairs Robert Dussey said 15 attacks in northern Togo had been perpetrated so far this year by Jama'a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM), an insurgent group in West Africa's Sahel region. He put the civilian death toll at 54. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Togo has seen a rise in jihadist activity in recent years, as groups linked to Islamic State and al Qaeda have spread from the Sahel. A surge in attacks in May and June marked one of the deadliest periods in the Sahel's recent history, underscoring the threat posed by jihadist groups at a time when regional governments are estranged from former Western military allies, analysts say. Violence in the region south of the Sahara started when jihadist groups hijacked a Tuareg rebellion in the north of Mali in 2012. Groups linked to Al Qaeda and Islamic State have since seized territory despite costly military efforts to push them back, spreading into Burkina Faso and Niger and more recently into the north of coastal countries such as Togo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thousands have been killed and millions displaced by the fighting. Dussey told Reuters that there are about 8,000 Togolese forces in the north between Togo and neighboring Burkina Faso. Analysts say JNIM has been ramping up attacks in Burkina Faso. Dussey said Togo's cooperation with Burkina Faso was very good, and said that Togo acts as a bridge between the Economic Community of West African States, of which it is a member, and the Confederation of Sahel States, consisting of military-ruled Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger. (Reporting by Daphne Psaledakis in Washington; Additional reporting by Robbie Corey-Boulet in Dakar; Editing by Don Durfee and Leslie Adler) State Crime Information Director Maury Mitchell presents information to the Alabama Justice Information Commission on Thursday, July 24, 2025. Members approved a policy to collect information regarding deaths in custody to help the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs receive grants from the federal government. (Ralph Chapoco/Alabama Reflector) The Alabama Justice Information Commission established a policy on Thursday to require law enforcement to report when someone dies while in custody. But the Commission left it up to the individual agencies to make the information available to the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The policy was one of two that members of the commission unanimously voted to approve during its quarterly meeting to create a platform that allows law enforcement agencies to report incidents of people dying in their custody. It also establishes the process for reporting deaths and the information that must be included. The policy was adapted to fit the needs of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, another state agency in Alabama, to report those statistics to the U.S. Department of Justice so it can continue to distribute grants from the U.S. DOJ to law enforcement organizations throughout the state. Currently, the Alabama Department of Economic Affairs cannot require law enforcement agencies to report incidents in which people have died in their custody. The updated policy allows it to partner with the Commission to obtain the information. Basically, we are depending on the goodwill of any entity that can hold individuals to give us that information. said Bill Babington, chief of the Law Enforcement and Traffic Division of the agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recently updated policy applies to all agencies in Alabama and must be reported each quarter. The updated policy defines those in the custody of law enforcement as people who are detained or arrested, as well as incarcerated in a jail or prison. Law enforcement agencies must report when and where people died while in their custody, as well as how people died along with information pertaining to any investigation into the death of the individuals. Agencies must also report the name, date of birth and race of the individuals who died, as well as data related to the individual reporting the death, such as the name and title, as well as the name of the agency. The policy states that the Alabama Justice Information Commission will outline the procedures to collect and distribute the information about those who died while in custody. The Commission will also provide a uniform method for collecting the information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The data will then be given to the authorized people at ADECA. However, that information within that database will be kept secret. Anyone from the public who wants access to the information must contact the reporting agency. Members of the commission also ratified a policy that requires law enforcement agencies to report people who are wanted in custody for a crime, stolen vehicles and stolen property within 12 hours of the incident. President Trump warned he could impose new tariffs and export limits on advanced technology and semiconductors in response to digital service taxes in other countries that he says unfairly target American tech firms. In a post to Truth Social late Monday, Trump argued the taxes are meant to hurt US companies while letting China's biggest tech players off the hook. "As the President of the United States, I will stand up to Countries that attack our incredible American Tech Companies," Trump wrote. Trump did not specify any countries in his post, but the European Union has employed various taxes and regulatory methods that Trump has said unfairly targets US tech giants. The EU defended its use of the measures on Tuesday. "Its the sovereign right of the EU and its member states to regulate our economic activities on our territory," a spokeswoman said. The new drama comes after the US and the EU established a written framework for the trade deal agreed to in late July. Also on Monday, Trump said a 15% tariff on imports from South Korea will hold despite President Lee Jae Myung's visit to Washington, D.C. The two countries struck a trade deal in July, allowing South Korea to avoid a stiffer 25% tariff, but tensions over the agreement have persisted, Bloomberg reported. Last week, Trump said that the US is investigating furniture imports and will impose a tariff on the products once the probe is complete. Meanwhile, US tariffs on imports from India are set to double to 50% on Wednesday, with no indications that the countries are moving toward any kind of deal. Also last week, Canada vowed to drop its retaliatory tariffs to match US tariff exemptions for goods covered under the US-Mexico-Canada trade pact. Earlier this month, Trump unveiled "reciprocal" tariffs on dozens of US trade partners (which you can see in the graphic below). Those tariffs face legal limbo in an appeals court case that could be decided within days. Justice Department lawyers and lawyers for a group of small business importers who are challenging the tariffs imposed under this authority argued their positions before the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. If the court rules against the government, it's likely Trump would appeal to the Supreme Court. Read more: What Trump's tariffs mean for the economy and your wallet Here are the latest updates as the policy reverberates around the world. LIVE 1748 updates Wayne Reid, the executive director of Alabama Public Television, speaks with a colleague at the Alabama Educational Television Commission meeting on July 29, 2025, in Birmingham, Alabama. Reid said APT remains concerned about recent federal funding cuts to public media, but is working through some possible solutions. (Anna Barrett/Alabama Reflector) BIRMINGHAM The director of Alabama Public Television (APT) said Tuesday that the public service broadcaster could drop NPR programming in the state following federal funding cuts. Wayne Reid, executive director of APT, said it will lose about $3.2 million, equal to about 13% of its FY24 budget, in federal funding after President Donald Trump signed a law revoking $1.1 billion for public media over the next two fiscal years. Reid said there is a possibility that APT will drop NPR programming and instead take up programming from the Public Radio Exchange (PRX) for its stations based in Huntsville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve got a great plan for taking what were losing and being able to move forward, and really engage more into the community, Reid said. He said APT is currently reviewing its budgets and does not have a concrete plan for future funding, but that it may include asking the state Legislature for additional funding. Board member Johnny Curry said the state should have no issue funding APT if it is able to educate legislators on what they do. Regardless of how we raise funds, I dont see us stepping away from our core mission of providing educational products to the children of this state, Curry said. I dont think we really are in danger of losing our state dollars if we educate the Legislature about what our education mission is. Our mission is not masterpiece theater. Another concern is the impact of federal cuts on PBS News Hour and other national programming from PBS. Reid said that Alabama is one of 16 networks in red states, about 20% of the country, who are unsure what will happen to national news coverage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, if were not part of PBS, thats a problem, not being able to access that stuff, Reid said. While APT has its own programming, like Capitol Journal and broadcasts of high school sports, PBS supplies national programming, educational programming for kids, and digital streaming and sharing for the APT website. So if that went away, thats a huge undertaking for us to come back with a new player, support, storage, everything else that we would have to do for that, Reid said. The commission met Kevin Cornell, creator of the PBS educational program Mister C, which teaches children about science, technology, engineering and math. He led the board and staff members at the meeting in an activity that he does on his show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The thing is with science, I expect everyone to fail, and thats a great thing. Fail fast, fail often, Cornell said. Updated at 4:06 p.m. to correct that APT is looking at dropping NPR programming. An earlier version said they were looking at dropping affiliates. HAMPTON COUNTY, S.C. (WSAV) The South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) has posted a list of its top delinquent taxpayers and disgraced attorney Alec Murdaugh is on it. The organization says Murdaugh owes more than $1.5 million. The list is published quarterly. In April 2024, Murdaugh was sentenced to 40 years in prison for 22 financial crimes, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud; bank fraud; wire fraud and money laundering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Murdaugh is serving his 480-month federal sentence concurrently with his sentence for the murders of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, and the state financial offenses. The court also ordered Murdaugh to pay $8,762,731.88 in restitution to his victims and imposed a $10,034,377.95 forfeiture order for Murdaughs ill-gotten gains. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. Alfredo Gutierrez a small-town miners son who rose to political prominence and cemented his reputation as a nationally known migrants-rights activist has died. He was 79. Branded a bomb-thrower and a radical early on, Gutierrez grew to be a master at navigating the needs of diverse communities and forging high-profile alliances. His long service in his native state was guided by the twin passions of civil rights and educational access. Less than three months before his death from complications of esophageal cancer, Gutierrez reinforced his early bomb-thrower reputation when he jumped up from a crowd at an anti-Trump rally to knock down a Trump flag brandished by the presidents supporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was an obvious provocation, Gutierrez said, explaining he was trying to defuse a testy situation at a May Day rally. He was unapologetic. "I think I would do it again, he said at the time. And frankly, it felt good to bring that flag down." In May 2024, he bookended his early days of protest at Arizona State University when he walked across the graduation stage to receive his bachelor of liberal arts degree. This was the same ASU that 56 years ago had kicked him out for leading student protests during the Chicano Rights Movement, including a temporary takeover of the ASU president's office. His decision to complete his degree soothed a regret that had gnawed at him for years. Gutierrez said it felt hypocritical to leave his academic work unfinished, even as he encouraged young people to go to college and fought to increase college pathways for disadvantaged students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I just felt I had to do it, he said in a 2024 interview. From organizing to running for office Gutierrez activism at ASU, where he and other students founded the Mexican American Student Organization, led to more community engagement that escalated from street-level organizing to elective office. He worked with Cesar Chavez organizing farmworkers in California. In 1969, Gutierrez and other activists co-founded Chicanos Por La Causa, a key social service organization in the Valley. By the time he won a seat in the state Legislature at age 27, he was already an experienced organizer who excelled at inspiring workers and lawmakers to act. Within two years, he was chosen to lead the Democratic majority caucus, and he held various leadership positions in both the minority and majority caucuses for more than a decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After 14 years at the Legislature, Gutierrez partnered with former Department of Economic Security director Bill Jamieson to open a consulting firm that specialized in crisis management. They took on a series of controversial clients that ruffled the feathers of community and city leaders. In 2002, he ran for the Democratic nomination for governor, finishing a distant second to then-Attorney General Janet Napolitano. He later returned to his activist roots, becoming an outspoken opponent of Arizonas stringent immigration law, Senate Bill 1070. He also hosted a Spanish-language radio program for seven years. In 2014, Gutierrez was appointed to the Maricopa County Community College board. He was elected in his own right in 2016 and served as president for a year and a half. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He stepped down as president in 2018 in the wake of an employee investigation that divided board members, but remained on the board. A freak accident that temporarily affected his ability to speak and walk led him to resign entirely about seven months later, as he worked to recuperate. I have seven or eight good years (left), and I dont want to spend them arguing with right-wingers, which is what I do on that board, Gutierrez told the Arizona Capitol Times in his typically brusque style. I need to get on with doing something great again. A son of Arizona's copper belt A native of Miami, Arizona, Gutierrez expected to follow in his mining familys footsteps. None of his relatives had attended college, and he didnt plan to, either. He was a mischievous child, and as he got older, his troublemaking earned him a rap sheet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I was a guest of county facilities on a number of occasions, Gutierrez told the Phoenix New Times in 1991. I mean, it was a small town. There wasn't much to do." It was after some of those shenanigans landed him in court that he stumbled onto a way out of Miami: The judge forced him to choose between juvenile detention and the military, and he chose the Army. There, he started to believe there was room him in higher education. After leaving three years with the Army infantry, including one year in Vietnam, Gutierrez enrolled at ASU to study history and philosophy. But it wasnt long before he began agitating for change, using advocacy skills he later attributed to his fathers union involvement. Building up Latino activism When campus activism cut short his educational aspirations, he redirected his efforts, leading to the foundation of Chicanos Por La Causa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Members of CPLC, following the Chicano Movement ideal of community empowerment, worked to build an organization that would provide social and economic benefits for the Mexican American community," a 2006 report published by Phoenixs Historic Preservation Office stated. They confronted economic, educational, youth, and housing issues. At first, though, CPLC focused on activism and protest issues. In 1970, that meant the Phoenix Union High School boycott, for which Gutierrez was a lead coordinator. At the time, divisions along racial lines within the district, which had the largest minority population of any in the state, had led to conflict and violence. Parents wanted increased security, as well as better facilities and more culturally relevant coursework. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the school did not respond to the parents satisfaction, CPLC leaders organized a boycott, the Phoenix report stated. Nearly one-half of the students at PUHS stayed home or attended alternative schools in local churches or community centers, set up by the Barrio Youth Project, headed by future State Senator Alfredo Gutierrez. In 1972, the 27-year-old Gutierrez successfully ran for a seat in the state Legislature on a promise to improve health services for minority residents of south Phoenix, who often waited hours to be seen at county hospitals. "By then, he'd had six years of relative success in mobilizing people, but there was that frustration shared by all of us of looking around at the various public offices and saying, `Why aren't I there?' the late Congressman Ed Pastor, another mining-town native, said of Gutierrez. Alfredo was the first one willing to take that on." Upon arriving at the Capitol, Gutierrez was quickly labeled a radical by The Arizona Republic. But despite his populist ideologies he pushed for expanded social services, education and better protection of civil rights he was able to find some common ground with some conservatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he left the Legislature in early 1987, lawmakers and lobbyists pooled together the money to buy and present him with a new Pontiac Grand Am. Gutierrez did not own a car at the time. Activist Alfredo Gutierrez is arrested in front of the Sandra Day O'Connor U.S. Courthouse in Phoenix on the first day of new law SB 1070 on July 29, 2010. An enduring belief in hope Gutierrezs subsequent aspirations to advance to statewide office didnt pan out. But he was successful in the private sector, using an intricate web of political and business connections to open a consulting and lobbying firm. Gutierrez drew criticism for taking on some corporate clients other community leaders felt his younger self wouldve opposed in other words, selling out. Yet even detractors acknowledged he was excellent at his job. Coming into the 1990s, it would be difficult to identify anyone with greater, albeit hidden, influence than Alfredo Gutierrez," the Phoenix New Times wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gutierrez couldnt stay out of the activist world for too long, though especially not after Arizona passed SB1070. He led protests against the measure, slammed the federal policies of then-President Barack Obama, and became a lecturer for grassroots migrants-rights organization Puente. He also wrote several columns on immigration issues, and hosted a Spanish-language radio show for years. Given his broad following, he would often receive personal items found in the desert near the Arizona-Mexico border. He would describe the items during the radio show, hoping that someone would recognize them or confirm that they had made it across the border safely. My father was deported during Operation Repatriation in the mid-30s. He was recruited to return to the U.S. during World War II because of the shortage of underground miners, Gutierrez told MSNBC. From the time I can remember, it was drilled into us never to discuss the deportation or the legal status of the family outside the house Advocating justice for immigrants has seemed like my calling. A dozen years before he died, Gutierrez published To Sin Against Hope: Life and Politics on the Borderland, a 2013 memoir that chronicled his work in the migrants-rights arena. In it, he pulled no punches, criticizing the policies of Democrats and Republicans alike and the "timidity" of migrant-advocacy organizations. But he was far from defeatist. The great Latin American observer Eduardo Galeano wrote, Todos los pecados tienen redencion menos uno: pecar contra la esperanza. All sins can be forgiven save one: To sin against hope, he said in a 2014 interview. Hope motivates me every day. Gutierrez is survived by his wife, Sharon Zapata, and three sons, Sam, Ben and Luis. Maria Polletta is a former reporter for The Arizona Republic. Republic reporter Daniel Gonzalez also contributed to this story. Mary Jo Pitzl can be reached at 602-228-7566 and at maryjo.pitzl@arizonarepublic.com; Gonzalez at daniel.gonzalez@arizonarepublic.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Alfredo Gutierrez, Arizona migrant-rights activist, dies A Little Village man blamed his anger against Palestinians and around immigration when he admitted to spray-painting ICE rules and swastikas on several buildings in Little Village, prosecutors said Tuesday. Philip Dominguez, 39, faces 10 total counts of misdemeanor criminal property damage and felony hate crime for alleged vandalism on a grocery store, two community organizations and a local politicians office. He appeared Tuesday in a first-floor courtroom at the Leighton Criminal Court Building before Cook County Judge Ankur Srivastava, wearing a blue Spider-Man T-shirt. Dominguez first allegedly spray-painted a swastika over a window of the Chicago Liberation Center that displayed a Palestinian flag in the early hours of July 19 before he appeared on surveillance footage painting the same symbol on a building belonging to the community services organization Latinos Progresandos, according to Assistant States Attorney John Kyle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He then allegedly painted more swastikas on the Free Palestine mural on the wall at the La Fruteria grocery store, and state Sen. Celina Villanuevas district office, prosecutors said. All of the buildings vandalized, except for Villanuevas office, are near West Cermak Road and South Washtenaw Avenue. The office of Villanueva, a Democrat, is farther south, in the 2500 block of South Central Park Avenue. The next night, prosecutors said Dominguez returned to La Fruteria about 1:30 a.m. to spray-paint ICE rules on the wall. When he called the Ogden (10th) District police station to turn himself in Saturday after seeing himself in news reports about the property damage, Dominguez allegedly said hed been motivated to vandalize the buildings out of anger against Palestinians and Latinos regarding issues related to Palestine and supporting immigration, prosecutors said. An assistant public defender said Dominguez is a Little Village resident who regularly attends church, attended Farragut High School, works as a Walmart stocker and lives with his mother. His mother and a few other women were in the courtroom Tuesday, and Dominguez appeared to nod to them as he made his first appearance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Srivastava ordered Dominguez released on the condition that he not have contact with victims and witnesses to the alleged vandalism, keep up weekly check-ins with his assigned pretrial officer and to avoid the organizations, district office and grocery store. Srivastava, in setting the terms of the release, said he was trying to balance Dominguez as-yet clean criminal history and ties to the neighborhood with the severity of the allegations, which he said he didnt often see. Hate speech is terrible, Srivastata said. While this is not a violent offense it is certainly a harmful one. No child should have to walk down the street and feel they are not welcome in their community. Asked if he understood the conditions of his release, Dominguez replied, Yes I do, loud and clear. Dominguez is next set to appear in court Aug. 1. ...so I got the transcripts. MITCH: We have to bring slavery back. Those were the good old days. KEVIN: How will we do that? There's no way we can do that. MITCH: Black people won't do it, but white people will. KEVIN: How will we get white people to be slaves? That sounds ridiculous. MITCH: We have to get rid of the separation of church and state. We must have state-funded religious schools. KEVIN: I don't see where you're getting at. MITCH: Those schools will have work programs for fourth- through eighth-graders. KEVIN: I think I see where you're going here. How is that going to work? MITCH: We get the kids to pick all the produce as a part of their work program to teach them the values of good old-fashioned blue-collar labor and the bounty of God. KEVIN: I don't think that anyone will go for that. MITCH: It's all about grooming. Start in the first grade, and by fourth grade, they'll be ready to do it. KEVIN: But we already have people to pick the produce. MITCH: We have to finish the wall. KEVIN: No way that's going to happen. MITCH: We'll find better ways to get the immigrants out of the United States. KEVIN: By doubling ICE. MITCH: Yes. KEVIN: This will be too busy, too hard and will be too busy trying to sustain this over long periods of time and generations. MITCH: No. We get rid of the abortion laws in the United States, and we make it mandatory that all eighth-grade females be impregnated in order to graduate. KEVIN: Oh, like replacing the crops. Ha, ha ha. Pun intended. KEVIN: Also, I will work on getting the abortion ban you work on state-funded religious schools. MITCH: We don't have to do either. Lindsay and I took care of that with the new SCOTUS. United States Customs and Border Patrol caught an alleged Tren de Aragua gang member during a traffic stop near Detroit Wednesday. The traffic stop in Shelby Township was triggered by a fake license plate on a vehicle caught during a traffic stop by the Shelby Township Police Department. The local police station said they realized the suspect was an alleged gang member on the terror watchlist, which is when Marysville Station CBP agents went to the traffic stop to grab people in local police custody. CBP said the three people inside the car were all in the United States illegally, and one of them is Venezuelan national Manuel Zavala-Lopez, an alleged Tren de Aragua gang member who entered the country during the Biden administration in May 2023 and was released, according to DHS. The group was named a foreign terrorist organization early on during President Donald Trumps second term, along with MS-13. Some of those alleged members have been sent to the Terrorism Confinement Center in El Salvador for detention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fbi Takes Down Anti-tren Gang Members In Largest Bust Yet In Violent Migrant Turf War "Zavala-Lopez is a serial criminal who's traveled across the U.S. committing violent crimes. He has an outstanding warrant for failure to appear on a felony assault charge in Denver, Colorado. He has also been charged with robbery resulting in physical injury, criminal possession of a weapon intent to use, assault, possession of stolen property and petty larceny in New York," DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement. "Thanks to our brave law enforcement, he is off the streets and will no longer be able to terrorize American citizens. He will remain in ICE custody pending removal." Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The arrest of this Tren de Aragua gang member, who has a history of firearms and other criminal charges and was wanted on an active warrant out of Denver, Colorado, for failure to appear, removes another dangerous criminal illegal alien from our country and enhances public safety," Detroit Sector Chief Patrol Agent John R. Morris said in a statement. "This marks the second arrest of a gang member from a foreign terrorist organization this month and underscores the relentless efforts of our agents and law enforcement partners. These cases highlight the critical value of interagency cooperation in removing these criminal threats from our communities," Morris added. The 30-year-old, who is not named but had his mugshot disclosed by the agency, was previously charged with violent robbery as well as weapons and immigration violations, according to a news release. "This Tren de Aragua gang member, who had no business being in our country, let alone roaming the streets of Shelby Township, serves as our department's commitment to keeping our community safe and getting dangerous individuals like this out of our community," Lt. Mark Benedettini of the Shelby Township Police Department told Fox News Digital in an email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's Crackdown Nets Over 2,700 Alleged Members Of Notorious Venezuelan Gang Seventeen members of Venezuela's Tren de Aragua gang and members of the MS-13 gang were deported to El Salvador by the U.S. in San Salvador, El Salvador, March 31, 2025. Traffic stops are considered a major aspect of border and immigration enforcement, and people and drugs are often caught as a result. Two Salvadoran nationals in the country illegally were also arrested by CBP in Detroit earlier this month, the agency announced July 10. Click Here For More Immigration Coverage Border Patrol agents responded after a call for extra help during an "altercation" at a motel in Sterling Heights. One of the men "admitted" to being a member of MS-13 and said he previously served 20 years behind bars in the Central American country for killing someone from a rival gang. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Venezuelan Gang Suspect In Us Illegally Allegedly Attempts To Murder Federal Agent During Arrest Salvadoran police officers escort alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua recently deported by the U.S. government to be imprisoned in the Terrorism Confinement Center prison as part of an agreement with the Salvadoran government in Tecoluca, El Salvador, in a handout image obtained March 16, 2025. "This is a major win for the U.S. Border Patrol and the safety of our communities," Detroit Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Javier Geronimo Jr. said in a statement at the time. "This arrest is a clear example of how agents and our law enforcement partners are protecting our towns by removing violent criminals from our country." Original article source: Alleged serial criminal nabbed in Michigan traffic bust after Biden administration released him into US Civil rights lawyers are trying to land a temporary restraining order against Floridas Alligator Alcatraz detention center, alleging that detainees constitutional rights are being violated. The lawyers claimed during a virtual hearing in Miami federal court Monday that detainees at the Trump administrations prized detention facility have been denied legal counsel, have had their bond hearings canceled, and are being held without charges. Civil rights lawyers filed a lawsuit claiming that Eunice Cho, an attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union Foundation, called it an emergency situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers at Alligator Alcatraz are going around trying to force people to sign deportation orders without the ability to speak to counsel, she said. Mondays hearing addressed a July 16 lawsuit filed by civil rights lawyers that stated that it was virtually impossible for attorneys to get in contact with detainees, let alone contest their detention in immigration court. The governments restrictions on attorney-client communication at Alligator Alcatraz inhibit detainees ability to meaningfully access and communicate with legal counsel, impinge upon attorney-client privilege, and violate detainees constitutional rights under the First Amendment, the suit read. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said she was working at turbo speed to deliver on Trump's mass deportation plans. / Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images These restrictions also violate the Organizational Plaintiffs First Amendment rights to speak to their clients, it added. The governments restrictions on detainees ability to file documents and motions with the immigration court violate the Fifth Amendment right to due process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attorneys noted that lawyers have been unable to file bond petitions for detainees because the immigration court has no jurisdiction over their clients. The suit added that detainees then effectively have no way to contest their detention. As such, the civil rights lawyers demanded that state and federal officials find an immigration court that had jurisdiction over their clients. Trump-appointed U.S. District Judge Rodolfo Ruiz said that he would not allow the court to be transformed Trump-appointed U.S. District Judge Rodolfo Ruiz said during Mondays hearing that his job was only to address any proven constitutional violations, warning that any attempts to transform the court into the warden of Alligator Alcatraz is not going to happen here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He didnt come to a decision by the end of the hearing and instead asked the attorneys to refile their complaint as a request for a preliminary injunction. He set the next in-person court hearing for Aug. 18. Nicholas Meros, an attorney representing Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, also claimed that things have changed in the dozen days since the suit was filed. He said that video-conference rooms had been set up for detainees to speak to their attorneys and that the center had started providing in-person meetings between the attorneys and their clients. Detainees have claimed that the living conditions inside the Alligator Alcatraz has already been under fire for its alleged inhumane conditions, according to detainees and their family members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These included limited meals covered in maggots, lights that remain on for 24 hours, and mosquitos and bugs in cells. State officials have denied these allegations. This is the second lawsuit targeting Alligator Alcatraz, the first coming from environmental groups that wanted to halt construction of the facility because it didnt follow federal and state environmental laws. By Jonathan Stempel (Reuters) -Amazon.com urged a federal judge to dismiss a proposed class action over its alleged sale of rice tainted by arsenic and other "heavy metals," denying the accusation it fraudulently concealed contamination. In a filing late on Friday in Seattle federal court, Amazon said the presence of heavy metals in rice was a "decades-old, well-known issue" that was easy to discover, and the plaintiffs did not claim there were more metals than regulators allowed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amazon also said Section 230 of the federal Communications Decency Act shields online platforms from liability over content from third parties, such as rice sellers. Lawyers for the plaintiffs did not immediately respond on Tuesday to requests for comment. The lawsuit on May 23 covered 18 types of rice sold through Amazon, including from brands such as Ben's Original and Amazon-owned Whole Foods' 365. Plaintiffs Ashley Wright and Merriman Blum said they would not have bought or would have paid less for their Iberia basmati rice, one of the products, had they known it was contaminated or Amazon never tested it for heavy metals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Exposure to heavy metals has been associated with nervous system problems, immune system suppression and kidney damage. It has also been associated with autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in young children. The lawsuit followed a study by the nonprofit Healthy Babies, Bright Futures, which found arsenic in all 145 rice samples purchased nationwide, cadmium in all but one sample, and lead and mercury in more than one-third of tested samples. The case is Wright et al v Amazon.com Inc, U.S. District Court, Western District of Washington, No. 25-00977. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New YorkEditing by Bill Berkrot) American Eagles latest denim campaign, featuring actress Sydney Sweeney, has gotten backlash for having racist connotations. The clothing company launched the campaign, called Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans, on July 23, with the 27-year-old Euphoria star as the spokesperson. The campaign was intended to be a celebration of making customers look and feel good in AE Jeans, an online press release states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, shortly after rolling out, fans on social media started accusing the campaign of celebrating whiteness and eugenics. Furthermore, the ads have been bashed for promoting beauty features such as blonde hair and blue eyes that are historically common among Aryan races. Some pointed to the use of a jeans/genes pun used in the ads as being inappropriate, including one when Sweeney buttons her pants while lying on a couch and saying, Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality and even eye color. My genes are blue. Im sorry that American Eagle ad where theyve got that blonde blue eyed woman talking about how good jeans are passed down from your family and how hers are blue when she looks at the camera is such a blatant dog whistle that it can hardly be considered a dog whistle anymore, one X user wrote in response to the campaign ad. Another X user wrote, Sydney Sweeney and American Eagle promoting eugenics and pushing the aryan race Nazi propaganda was not in my 2025 bingo card. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some internet users have also accused AE of ripping off a 1980s Calvin Klein ad campaign starring supermodel Brooke Shields, SJ Denim reported. The ad showed a 14-year-old Shields rolling on the floor and trying to put on her jeans while discussing how the secret of life lies behind the genetic code. However, AEs campaign differs because it has been perceived as evoking a specific beauty standard, Cyndee Harrison, principal at marketing and crisis communications firm Synaptic, told SJ Denim. When nostalgia gets selective, it gets risky. Brands have every right to lean into heritage or iconography, but they have a responsibility to vet for subtext, Harrison told the outlet. Great genes, paired with a very specific beauty standard and the legacy of the Brooke Shields campaign evokes exclusion more than empowerment, she said. Creative shouldnt just pass legal reviewit should pass cultural review. That means involving people with diverse perspectives at the table from concept to launch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, not everyone was upset with the campaign. Many comments on a YouTube video of another ad were positive, with some comparing it to the ads of the 90s when beautiful women sold clothes by just wearing them. This used to be a normal ad to normal people left and right for decades, one comment read. Other comments were maybe Im washed but I dont see anything wrong with the ad and this is all the controversy is over? Smh. AE has yet to publicly comment on the matter. More trending Read the original article on MassLive. EllaLink Ireland Limited DUBLIN and NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EllaLink, the owner of a high-capacity optic-fibre submarine cable directly connecting Europe and Latin America, and the Ministere de la Transformation Numerique et de la Modernisation de lAdministration (MTNMA) of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania have signed a contract for the construction, operation and maintenance of a second international link that will directly connect the country to Madrid, Spain. The new diverse infrastructure will provide Mauritania with direct cost-effective international connectivity up to European main exchanges. The project includes the construction of a Cable Landing Station in Nouadhibou, the second largest city of Mauritania and a +500km branch connected to existing EllaLinks subsea cable system. Alcatel Submarine Networks has been selected to build the subsea section which will include two fibre pairs and use state-of-the-art optical technologies such as a ROADM WSS branching unit. EllaLink will be also in charge of the operation & maintenance of this new infrastructure. Representation of the EllaLink network map with the identification of the Mauritania Country area Representation of the EllaLink network map with the identification of the Mauritania Country area The construction has started, and the infrastructure is projected to be ready for service early 2027. The new infrastructure will deliver to the national operators an initial 200Gbps low latency direct circuit between the new cable landing station of Nouadhibou and EllaLinks Point of Presence in Madrid. This new diverse submarine cable will reinforce the Mauritanian international connectivity reducing the risk of disruption of the Mauritanian economy and supporting the digital transformation of the country with capacity set to grow for the next 25 years. The project is supported by the European Investment Bank and by the CEF Digital program of the European Commission. EU CEF Logo EllaLink's new connection in Mauritania confirms the companys strategy to expand connectivity across geographies along its transatlantic route. Philippe Dumont, CEO of EllaLink, expressed enthusiasm about this achievement: "We are proud to support Mauritanias vision of advancing its digital economy. This cutting-edge connection will not only strengthen Mauritanias international network but also offer direct, cost-effective access to key internet exchanges in Europe." About EllaLink EllaLink is a privately funded and independent company committed to providing products and services on a Carrier Neutral and Open Access basis. The EllaLink submarine cable system is an advanced optical platform offering secure high-capacity connectivity on a unique low latency transatlantic route serving the growing needs of the Latin American and European markets. The EllaLink network directly connects Brazil and Europe, linking the major hubs of Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Fortaleza with Lisbon, Madrid and Marseille. The EllaLink submarine cable system has been built with state-of-the-art coherent technology initially offering 100Tbps of capacity over four direct fibre pairs between Europe and Brazil. Marguerite II, a pan-European equity fund active in the renewables, energy, transport and digital infrastructure sectors, is the main shareholder of EllaLink. For more information visit ella.link. American Eagle is looking for a new social media manager amid the ongoing controversy over its latest campaign with Sydney Sweeney. The retailer shared a press release July 23 to announce its latest advertisements in collaboration with the 27-year-old actor. American Eagles advert includes a poster of Sweeney posing in a denim jacket and jeans, alongside the tagline: Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans. While the tagline appeared to be a pun about denim by changing the word genes to jeans it sparked immense criticism online, since the phrases good genes and great genes have historically been used in the language of eugenicists, who believe the human race can be improved genetically by selective breeding. Many people noted the apparent subtext of the campaign and criticized it for a lack of diversity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, only two days after American Eagle launched the campaign, the company revealed it was hiring an associate manager on its social media team. The job posting was shared July 25 on its corporate site, as well as on LinkedIn. However, it is not clear if the social media team vacancy has anything to do with the immediate backlash over the new campaign. The Independent has contacted American Eagle for comment. American Eagle is looking for a social media manager who can identify creator and influencer campaigns (Getty Images) According to the job posting, the company is seeking candidates who have a sharp, creative perspective on social content and an understanding of what resonates with Gen-Z across platforms. Along with helping to maintain American Eagles cultural relevance, the associate manager is in charge of content creation and managing and planning the content calendar. They will also identify creator and influencer campaigns, ensuring our product is showcased in the most engaging, authentic, and aspirational way possible. American Eagle is hiring an associate manager on its social media team amid the Sydney Sweeney campaign backlash (LinkedIn / American Eagle) This person should have a deep understanding of social-first content, be energized by the fast pace of internet culture, and have a sharp eye for brand storytelling, especially through influencers and creators, a description of the role reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not clear if the role requires interacting with angry customers and social media users, including those who continue to voice their concerns over the companys campaign with Sweeney. Advertising has always been and will always be about subtext and interpretation. if you're going to run a campaign that has a double meaning you better be clear on what those double meanings are. making a blonde white lady the sole face of your campaign and saying she has good genes against the backdrop of literally everything happening in the world is a choice, one person wrote on LinkedIn. And if nobody in the room could see that then the wrong people were in the room, someone responded. Sydney Sweeney is a great example of white supremacy being the only way a lot of people derive self-esteem, another wrote on X. She starred in two shows where she played the less hot friend to a dark-haired and brown skinned woman and tried to steal their man for validation in both shows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, a crucial part of the ad campaign has gone unnoticed. As part of the campaign, American Eagle is launching The Sydney Jean, a limited-run on the companys wide-legged jeans that were produced in collaboration with Sweeney, according to a press release. Theres also a butterfly motif on the back pocket of [The Sydney Jean that] represents domestic violence awareness, with 100 percent of proceeds from the jeans being donated to Crisis Text Line, a non-profit that offers confidential mental health support to anyone 24/7. However, many people on X have expressed that the important meaning of this campaign isnt clear in any of Sweeney's advertisements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you watched those Sydney Sweeney American Eagle ads, youd never know they were fundraising for a domestic violence charity, one tweeted. That Sydney [Sweeney] American Eagle ad was supposed to be about raising awareness for domestic violence, and that's the approach they chose, another wrote. Brits are back online with another apparently affronting American-ism. A Londoner, supposedly sick and tired of silly tourists, took to Reddit with a PSA to Americans visiting this summer, and warned that the British do not shorten place names here a habit many Yanks didnt even know they had. Apparently, this is an annoying habit of Americans. Amer Ghazzal/Shutterstock The user shared an anecdote, detailing how, while grabbing coffee with a group of friends in Victoria the district in Pimlico in Westminster, London they heard holidaying Americans abbreviate the names of places when asking for directions several times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First was how to get to Green (Green Park), and that theyd come via Edgware (Edgware Road obviously a totally different part of the city to Edgware itself), the next wanted to find their hotel in Holland (Holland Park, obviously not the region), the raging Redditor wrote. People who live here we got the gist of what they were saying yesterday, but its such an unneccessary layer of friction and could quite easily end up catastrophic if youre googling the wrong thing, asking for directions, researching somewhere (Gloucester instead of Gloucester Road, Liverpool instead of Liverpool Street, Leicester instead of Leicester Square etc. etc.), the OP added. Some Americans complained that everywhere in Britain has the same five names, making it confusing for foreigners. REUTERS Hundreds of frustrated commenters took to the posts thread to pile on additional anti-American observations. I think American tourists are just adorable sometimes. Theyre well-meaning idiots most of the time, jested one user. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is so weird. What is the reasoning behind it? Are place names shortened like this in the US? Genuinely curious, wondered another. Size, suggested an American in response, The assumption is you arent asking about a place two states over. You likely mean the closest area, or otherwise you would just Google it [Size] recontextualizes how you talk about directions and locations. Several agitated Americans also added that this observation seemed to be yet another in a long line of vague generalizations that Europeans attribute to Americans. Im in the hotel business, this occasionally happens in America, too, vouched one user. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This experience seems very limited to people in a very few specific metropolitan areas. Im American and would never give directions in that way, agreed another. Apparently, British people arent smart enough to figure out context, wrote a particularly peeved poster. While another bitter anti-Brit said: Keep thinking that this is unique to Americans if it makes you feel the sense of superiority you clearly need. Tourists are tourists. Im guessing youve been one. As if Brits are known for being stellar tourists abroad, quipped one reply. REUTERS Some users suggested that these irritated Londoners were simply suffering from summer tourist season in line with the tournami currently ravaging Europe but born-and-bred city dwellers said these crowds are nothing new. In cities like Barcelona, locals have even taken to shooting tourists with water guns to protest overtourism leading Americans to wonder, maybe these Reddit ragebait posts are the Brits own edition. Support for Israels military action in Gaza has declined substantially among U.S. adults, with only about one-third approving, according to a new Gallup poll a drop from the beginning of the war with Hamas, when about half of Americans approved of Israels operation. The new polling also found that about half of U.S. adults now have an unfavorable view of Israels prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, the most negative rating he has received since he was first included in Gallup polling in 1997. The poll was conducted from July 7-21, while reports of starvation in Gaza led to international criticism of Israels decision to restrict food aid but before President Donald Trump expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation. Trump says he wants Netanyahu to make sure they get the food in Gaza Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The findings underscore the Israeli governments dramatic loss of support within the U.S. But not everyone is shifting instead, the war has become more politically polarizing. The rising disapproval is driven by Democrats and independents, who are much less likely to approve of Israels actions than they were in November 2023, weeks after Hamas Oct. 7 surprise attack and after Israel expanded its ground offensive in Gaza. Republicans, on the other hand, remain largely supportive of both Israels military actions and Netanyahu. Most Americans now disapprove of Israeli military action in Gaza The new poll finds that about 6 in 10 U.S. adults disapprove of the military action Israel has taken in Gaza, up from 45% in November 2023. Support for the war has been dwindling in Gallups polling for some time. In March 2024, about half of U.S. adults disapproved of Israels military action in Gaza, which fell slightly as the year wore on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a new low, only 8% of Democrats and one-quarter of independents say they now approve of Israels military campaign. Some of that decline may be attributed to the change in administration. While former President Joe Biden faced significant pushback from fellow Democrats on his handling of the conflict between the Israelis and the Palestinians, they may be even more frustrated by the approach of Trump, a Republican. Young adults are also much more likely to disapprove of Israels actions. Only about 1 in 10 adults under age 35 say they approve of Israels military choices in Gaza, compared with about half of those who are 55 or older. Gallup senior editor Megan Brenan says the latest figures reflect the enduring partisan divide. Even as Democrats grow increasingly unhappy with Israels military campaign, Republicans remain supportive. Weve seen this drop in approval since last fall, and its really driven by Democrats and independents, Brenan says. Republicans are still willing to be in this for the time being. Netanyahus favorability among US adults is historically low Views of Netanyahu have also grown less favorable over the past few years, with more viewing him negatively than positively in measurements taken since the war in Gaza began. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About half of U.S. adults, 52%, now have an unfavorable view of Netanyahu in the new poll, which overlapped with Netanyahus recent visit to the U.S. Just 29% view him positively, and about 2 in 10 either havent heard of him or dont have an opinion. Thats a change although not a huge one since December 2023, when 47% of U.S. adults had an unfavorable view of Netanyahu and 33% had a favorable opinion. But its a reversal from as recently as April 2019, when more U.S. adults viewed him positively than negatively. Republicans have a much more positive view of Netanyahu than Democrats and independents do. About two-thirds of Republicans view him favorably, which is in line with last year. About 1 in 10 Democrats and 2 in 10 independents feel the same way. This is the first time weve seen a majority of Americans, with an unfavorable view of him, Brenan says. All of these questions in this poll show us basically the same story, and its not a good one for the Israeli government right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is unlikely to face the same pressure on his approach to Israel More than half of U.S. adults, 55%, disapprove of Trumps handling of the situation in the Middle East, according to a July AP-NORC poll. But the conflict has not weighed as heavily on Trump as it did on Biden, who watched Democrats splinter on the issue. Thats because of Trumps solid support from his base on this issue, further reflected in Republicans continued approval of Israels military action. About 8 in 10 Republicans approve of Trumps handling of the situation in the Middle East. By contrast, only about 4 in 10 Democrats approved of Bidens handling of the conflict between the Israelis and the Palestinians last summer, shortly before he dropped out of the presidential race. In an AP-NORC poll from March, Republicans were significantly more likely than Democrats and independents to say they sympathized more with the Israelis than with the Palestinians in the conflict. And while Americans overall were more likely to say it was extremely or very important for the United States to provide humanitarian relief to Palestinians in Gaza than to say the same about providing aid to Israels military, Republicans said the opposite more saw military aid to Israel as a higher priority than providing humanitarian relief to the Palestinians in Gaza. ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) Authorities are warning hikers to steer clear of streams and rivers where salmon are running and to take precautions after bears mauled hikers on two different occasions within a week in Anchorage. Both unidentified hikers survived the attacks in separate parts of the municipality of Anchorage, a sprawling urban-wildlife interface that spreads across 1,961 square miles (5,079 square kilometers), an area slightly larger than the state of Rhode Island. Anchorage is home to about 290,000 people, or about 40% of the states population, and all kinds of wildlife, including an estimated 350 black bears, 65 brown bears and 1,600 moose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One Facebook group captures stunning videos and photographs of bears, moose, wolves and other wildlife living and traveling within a half mile of a populated neighborhood in east Anchorage, in the shadows of the Chugach Mountains. Every year we recommend that folks avoid salmon-bearing streams because that concentrates both species of bears," said Cory Stantorf, the Anchorage area biologist for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. "Thats a major food source for these animals as they get ready for that hibernation season coming up. Both bear maulings in the last week occurred near populated areas, including the second attack Saturday near the suburb of Eagle River. A man was walking on a trail that runs parallel to the south fork of the Eagle River, where salmon are running, when his unleashed dog happened upon a brown bear with a cub, said Timothy Gurnett, a Chugach State Park ranger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bear mauled the hiker, who unloaded his entire can of spray deterrent to ward off the bear, first to stop the attack and then a second time when the bear returned. The sow and her cub disappeared into the woods. Armed officials searched for the bear on foot and with a drone, but the bear had left the area. Officials believe the sow was protecting her cub, and don't intend to kill it. Thats not something we go after bears for because any sow in that position would have likely done the same," Stantorf said. The first attack occurred July 22 when a bear attacked a woman on a popular trail in a hillside neighborhood overlooking Anchorage and Cook Inlet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman called police and said she had been attacked by what she thought was a brown bear about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) into the trail near the Stuckagain Heights neighborhood. Cyndi Wardlow, a regional supervisor for the state Department of Fish and Game, said shortly after the attack that it has not been determined if the bear was a brown bear or a cinnamon black bear, which could look like a brown bear. Visibility on the trail was very low, with tall grass and heavy brush. Wardlow said staff was able to collect hair and scat samples for submission for analysis, but it could take two weeks to get results. Stantorf said they are still waiting for results. Officials were hoping the samples could shed light on the type of bear and if it was male or female. Since they didnt know what they were working with, she said they werent actively searching for an animal after that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this time of the year, people should avoid the salmon-bearing waterways. Theres so many other places to hike, Gurnett said. Those areas include over 300 miles (483 kilometers) of trails within Chugach State Park, 95% of which lies within the Municipality of Anchorage. Hikers should be extra vigilant when they are next to a river since the water masks sounds, and bears dont hear people coming. Hikers could carry and sound air horns to let bears know they are nearby. Bears dont want to be around us. They want to be somewhere else, he said. Regardless of where people may hike, whether it is in the backcountry or near waterways, there is always a chance they could have a bear encounter or come across a moose, wolf or wolverine, Stantorf said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stantorf recommends people travel in groups, make noise, have bear spray ready, don't run or hike with earbuds in, keep pets leashed and be aware of your surroundings. ___ Associated Press writer Becky Bohrer in Juneau, Alaska, contributed. (Photo by Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current) More than 100 local governments in Washington are now eligible to claim their share of $122.2 million in settlements with Purdue Pharma and eight generic opioid manufacturers, the Washington state attorney generals office said Monday. The money is part of multistate settlements with Purdue Pharma, Alvogen, Amneal, Apotex, Hikma, Indivior, Mylan, Sun, and Zydus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Purdue Pharma settlement was announced on June 16. The other eight settlements were announced July 10. Signups for local governments to get in on the settlements opened Monday. While there is no deadline to join the $16.7 million settlement with the eight generic opioid manufacturers, the deadline to join the $105.5 million settlement with Purdue Pharma is Sept. 30. The attorney generals office encourages local governments to sign up for all nine settlements and complete other related paperwork at the same time. These settlements will be paid out over 15 years, with much of the funding distributed in the first three years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If all eligible city and county governments join the settlements, it would raise the total amount of money the attorney generals office has won from opioid manufacturers to $1.3 billion. This money is designated for programs that combat the opioid epidemic, support first responders, build treatment clinics, and provide overdose reversal kits. In 2024, fatal overdoses in Washington totaled 3,137, according to preliminary data released in June by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That marked an 11% decline from the prior year, but the deaths were still 14% higher than in 2022. The powerful synthetic opioid fentanyl has driven increases in fatal overdoses in recent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Companies made millions while our communities were harmed because of the opioid epidemic, Attorney General Nick Brown said in a statement on Monday. These funds can help save lives and support community projects across the state. Under the terms of an agreement, city and county governments will collectively receive 50% of Washingtons share of the settlement, and the state government will receive the other 50%. Of the states $61.1 million share, 20% will go to Washingtons tribal communities. Cities and counties split the money based on a formula developed through the One Washington Memorandum of Understanding, according to the attorney generals office. Cities are eligible for funds based on their size from 2019 U.S. Census Bureau estimates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A total of 129 local governments in Washington are eligible for settlement funding. If all of them sign up for the nine settlements, each local government would receive between $18,300 and $840,000. As with the prior opioid settlements, the new amounts are contingent on eligible cities and counties in Washington state joining. If not enough cities and counties join, the settlement is void, according to the Browns office. For every other prior opioid settlement, 100% of eligible counties and cities in Washington have joined, and were hopeful the same thing will happen this time, said Ashley Goss, spokesperson for the attorney generals Office. Lower participation by local governments reduces the portion the state receives, according to Goss. The Attorney Generals Office is maintaining a tracker showing the status of eligible governments signup forms. The tracker will be updated every few weeks initially and then more often as the Sept. 30 deadline nears. Over 250 lorries carrying aid entered the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, according to the Israeli military, three days after it began increasing the flow of supplies into the embattled Palestinian territory amid an outcry over reports of imminent famine. "An additional 260 trucks entered Gaza and are now awaiting collection and distribution, along with hundreds of others still queued for UN pickup," COGAT, the Israeli military authority responsible for approving and coordinating aid transports, wrote on X. On Monday, more than 200 lorries carrying supplies entered the sealed-off coastal area, according to the agency, who said the aid had been picked up and distributed to the population by UN and other aid groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel allowed large-scale aid deliveries into Gaza for the first time in months on Sunday, announcing daily "humanitarian" pauses in fighting in three areas in the strip to enable aid convoys to safely reach civilians. Eyewitnesses and volunteers reported chaotic scenes as the food arrived, as many Gazans have been forced to survive on less than one meal a day. Many lorries were looted by crowds of people before they could reach the warehouses, they said, with some of the goods reportedly sold at street markets. Observers attribute these conditions to the collapse of the social order in the ravaged territory, which they say have been exacerbated by Israel's blockade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 100 people are said to have died of malnutrition since Israel began severely limiting the influx of aid in March. UN and other aid organizations have warned that famine is imminent, with governments around the world also urging the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to allow more aid into Gaza and end the war. US President Donald Trump, Netanyahu's most important ally, on Monday described the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip as "terrible," noting that children there look "very hungry." While Israel rejects accusations that it is deliberately starving Gazans, the mounting international pressure appears to have led the government to partially lift its blockade, though aid organizations say much higher quantities are needed to properly supply the population. DES MOINES, Iowa Over the last couple of weeks, two different families shared with WHO 13 News the issues they had with Davis Custom Homes. Similar to the previous two families, the Collins family experienced the same: slow progress on work, subcontractors not being paid and a family wondering where their money went. We signed the contract in August, said Michael Collins. Essentially from the get go, they missed milestones and deadlines right off the bat from what they were telling us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins lives in Nebraska with his wife Katie and their three kids. The house was being built in Honey Creek in Pottawattamie County, that is where the family bought property. The Collins family sold their home after signing the contract with Davis Custom Homes, expecting that they would already be moved in. But now the family, with a week-old newborn, lives with family an hour away from where they are building. As Michael said, work started slow but eventually got going. Early in 2025, the couple realized that some subcontractors had not been getting paid for their work. And to the family that was extremely concerning; as they took out more than $400,000 in a construction loan and approved the transfer of funds to Davis Custom Homes when a project on the property was completed. Its panic mode, I mean we really didnt know what to do, said Michael. We were just running around trying to figure out what they heck were doing. Because, the funds that were releasing after, which is fine because we signed the contract, but we released $55,000 for plumbing and HVAC it turns out that the total bill for that was only $20,000 between the two. So were double, plus and theyre (subcontractors) arent getting a penny of that. So wheres the money going? Both Michael and Katie were both hoping to have their newborn baby after they moved into their new home. But their new baby boy was born this last week, and work on the property is at a complete stop. Communication stopped with Davis Custom Homes in May, leaving the family in the dark and about $125,000 in mechanical liens placed on their property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That was one of our biggest stressors because we didnt find out we were pregnant until Novemberso we kept pressing like this babys due in July, like can we get into the house by then. But when May started happening and communication was lost (with Davis Custom Homes), Im surprised the baby didnt come at that point, said Katie. The Collins family decided to get their legal team involved, and luckily for them the bank froze some of the funds while investigating for fraud. Michael and Katie joined a Facebook group with other families from Iowa who have been left with incomplete homes and mounds of debt by Davis Custom Homes. That is where they started learning about the similarities with their story and others. Members of the group that live in Iowa shared information with the Iowa Attorney Generals Office. The Collins family shared their information with the Nebraska Attorney Generals Office and are hoping for help on the legal side of things. With no word back from the company, there are a couple of options for the family, who thought they would already be moved in by now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe we have to file bankruptcy to clear this from us. If we have to pay to solve the house, we just cant do it. We dont have an extra $300,000 to finish this house. The bank is not giving it to us, we dont have that in the bank and I guess our final option would be to finish the house on our own with bank funds or our own cash and then we wait for litigation to see if theyll pay the subs through the legal system, said Michael. Michael and Katies daughter starts kindergarten at the beginning of the school year. They already enrolled her in a district near Honey Creek, as they thought they would be there already. Now the couple will be driving an hour to and from school as they try to figure out what to do with their home. 34 total properties in Omaha, NE and Iowa were contracted with Davis Custom Homes over the last calendar year. The Facebook group of people impacted are still finding more families struggling after signing a contract with the company. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated. The State Criminal-Executive Service initially reported that 17 prisoners were killed, but later corrected the figure to 16. A Russian air strike against a prison in southern Zaporizhzhia Oblast late on July 28 killed 16 convicts and injured nearly a hundred more, Ukraine's State Criminal-Executive Service said. Forty-four people were injured and hospitalized, and more than 50 were provided medical assistance on the spot, the authorities said. The State Criminal-Executive Service previously reported one staff member among the injured victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moscow's forces struck the Zaporizhzhia district eight times with FAB bombs overnight, destroying prison buildings and damaging nearby houses, Governor Ivan Fedorov said. The prison facility in Bilenke, a village around 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Zaporizhzhia, was hit by four bombs at around 11:30 p.m. on July 28, according to the State Criminal-Executive Service. "The perimeter of the institution was not damaged; there is no threat of escape," the service said. Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets denounced the attack as a "gross violation of international humanitarian law and yet another proof of Russia's war crimes." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "People held in places of detention do not lose their right to life and protection," Lubinets said on Telegram. The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) decried the attack and said that it may amount to a serious violation of international humanitarian law in a July 29 statement. Prisoners are civilians, and they must be protected under international humanitarian law, Danielle Bell, head of HRMMU, said in the statement. HRMMU added that it planned to send monitors to the site of the strike "at the earliest opportunity to gather additional information." It noted that the structural damage and wide-spread blast effects visible in photos reviewed by HRMMU were consistent with the use of powerful air-glide bombs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of spring, Ukrainian prosecutors are investigating over 150,000 suspected war crimes committed by Russia during its all-out war. Russia has occupied part of Zaporizhzhia Oblast since the onset of its full-scale invasion in 2022, subjecting the rest of its territories to daily aerial and artillery attacks. Read also: We assessed your attempt top Ukrainian drone commander hints Russia tried to strike multiple unit leaders at once Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. LONDON (AP) The killing of three girls at a summer dance class in England a year ago Tuesday, by a teenager misidentified as a migrant, triggered days of street violence directed at newcomers and minorities. In the aftermath, communities came together to clear up the physical damage but repairing the countrys social fabric is harder. Experts and community groups warn that the mix of anger, fear, misinformation and political agitating that fueled the violence remains. In recent weeks it has bubbled over again on the streets of Epping, near London. Given a trigger event, none of the conditions of what happened last year have gone away, said Sunder Katwala of British Future, a think tank that looks at issues including integration and national identity. He said there is a tense and quite febrile atmosphere in some parts of the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A solemn anniversary A three-minute silence was held Tuesday in the seaside town of Southport in northwest England, where the stabbing attack left three girls under 10 dead and eight children and two adults wounded. Over the following days, violence erupted in Southport and across England, driven partly by online misinformation saying the attacker was a migrant who had arrived in the U.K. by small boat. Because of British contempt of court and privacy laws, authorities were initially slow to disclose the suspects identity: Axel Rudakubana, a British-born 17-year-old obsessed with violence. He later pleaded guilty to murder and is serving a life sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the week after the attack, crowds in more than two dozen towns attacked hotels housing migrants, as well as mosques, police stations and a library. Some rioters targeted non-white people and threw bricks and fireworks at police. Within a few days, larger numbers of people took to the streets to reclaim their communities, sweeping up broken glass and sending a message of welcome to newcomers. Tinderbox Britain A year on, the sight of migrants crossing the English Channel in dinghies more than 22,000 so far this year provides a focus for those concerned about the impact of immigration. Those concerns are often amplified by online rumor, scapegoating and misinformation, some of it deliberate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Add a sluggish economy, high housing costs, frayed public services and widespread distrust in politicians, and Britain, in the view of many commentators, has become a tinderbox. Nigel Farage, leader of hard-right political party Reform UK, said last week that the country is close to civil disobedience on a vast scale. The left-of-center Labour government agrees there is a problem. At a Cabinet meeting last week, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner noted that 17 of the 18 places that saw the worst disorder last year were among the most deprived in the country. She said that Britain is a successful multi-ethnic, multi-faith country, but the government must show it has a plan to address peoples concerns and provide opportunities for everyone to flourish. The government has pledged to stop migrants trying to reach Britain across the Channel and to end the practice of lodging asylum-seekers in hotels, which have become flashpoints for tension. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics say the government risks legitimizing protesters who in many cases are driven by intolerance and want to drive immigrants from their homes. In Ballymena, Northern Ireland, last month, rioters threw bricks, bottles, petrol bombs and fireworks and firebombed immigrants houses after two Romanian-speaking 14-year-old boys were charged with sexual assault. Hundreds of people have protested this month outside a hotel housing asylum-seekers in Epping, a town on the edge of London, after a recently arrived migrant from Ethiopia was charged with sexual assault. He denies the charge. Scattered protests Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protesters in Epping and a handful of other communities this summer have included local people, but also members of organized far-right groups who hope to capitalize on discord. Tiff Lynch, who heads the Police Federation officers union, wrote in the Daily Telegraph newspaper that the Epping disorder was a reminder of how little it takes for tensions to erupt and how ill-prepared we remain to deal with it. Learning from last summers violence, where the police and courts responded quickly to detain and charge hundreds of suspects, police have charged more than a dozen people over violence in Epping. A protest and antiracist counter-demonstration in the town on the weekend were peaceful. The online realm is harder to police. The British government, like others around the world, has struggled with how to stop toxic content on sites including X. Under the ownership of self-styled free-speech champion Elon Musk, X has gutted teams that once fought misinformation and restored the accounts of banned conspiracy theories and extremists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government has cited the amount of time people spend alone online as a factor behind polarization and fraying social bonds. Grounds for optimism Families of the three girls who died in Southport Alice da Silva Aguiar, 9, Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7, and 6-year-old Bebe King called for quiet and respectful commemorations. Local authorities have asked people not to lay flowers, but to consider donating to causes set up in the victims memories. The team behind Elsies Story, a childrens charity set up by Stancombes family, posted on Instagram: Our girls, our town, will not be remembered for the events of that day, but for everything we are building together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Katwala said that despite a sense of disconnection and frustration at national politics and national institutions, there are grounds for optimism. Britain is less heated and less polarized than the United States, by quite a long way, he said. Peoples interpersonal trust remains quite high. Seven out of 10 people think their local area is a place where people from different backgrounds get on well. Theyre just worried about the state of the nation. ATHENS, Greece (AP) Demonstrators calling for an end to the war in Gaza protested the arrival of an Israeli cruise ship on another Greek island Tuesday the third such protest on Greek islands in the last week. Protesters on the southern Greek island of Crete unfurled a huge Palestinian flag at the port of Agios Nikolaos and shouted Free, free Palestine as the tourists on board the Crown Iris disembarked and left on buses for their tours of the island, according to images shown on local media outlets. Riot police kept the crowd away from the pier where the cruise ship was docked, while scuffles broke out between demonstrators and police. Local media reported that officers used pepper spray at one point to keep the crowd back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four people were detained, local media said. Video showed police leading one man away, his arms cuffed behind his back, as he shouted Free, free Palestine. Similar scenes unfolded the previous day when the Crown Iris docked in a port on the eastern Greek island of Rhodes, where clashes broke out between riot police and demonstrators calling for an end to the war in Gaza. There also, the cruise ships passengers disembarked for tours of the island, and no violence was reported. Anti-war protesters on Greeces Cycladic island of Syros were the first to hold a demonstration against the docking of the Crown Iris, on July 22. The crowd of about 150 people chanted slogans and carried banners that read Stop the Genocide and No a/c in hell a reference to the conditions Palestinians face in the Gaza Strip. On that occasion, the ships roughly 1,700 passengers didn't disembark and the ship left the island earlier than planned, with the company operating the trip, Israels Mano Cruise, saying it had decided in light of the situation in the city of Syros to now sail to another tourist destination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week's incident had triggered a phone call by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar to Greek counterpart George Gerapetritis. Greece is a popular tourist destination for Israelis on package tours and traveling independently, particularly in the summer months, and there are several flights per day between Tel Aviv and Athens, as well as from Israeli airports directly to Greek islands. With a market cap of $19.2 billion, McCormick & Company, Incorporated (MKC) is a global leader in the manufacture, marketing, and distribution of spices, seasonings, condiments, and flavorful products for both consumers and the food industry. Operating through its Consumer and Flavor Solutions segments, the company serves retail, foodservice, and industrial customers across the Americas, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific regions. Analysts expect the Hunt Valley, Maryland-based company to report adjusted earnings of $0.82 per share in Q3 2025, down 1.2% from $0.83 per share in the year-ago quarter. The company has surpassed Wall Street's earnings estimates in three of the last four quarters while missing on another occasion. More News from Barchart For fiscal 2025, analysts expect the spices and seasonings company to report an adjusted EPS of $3.04, up 3.1% from $2.95 in fiscal 2024. In addition, adjusted EPS is projected to grow 8.9% year-over-year to $3.31 in fiscal 2026. www.barchart.com Shares of MKC have decreased 5.2% over the past 52 weeks, lagging behind both the S&P 500 Index's ($SPX) 17.1% increase and the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Funds (XLP) over 3% rise over the same period. www.barchart.com McCormick stock jumped 5.3% on Jun. 26 after the company reported Q2 2025 adjusted earnings of $0.69 per share, beating analyst estimates, and posted $1.7 billion in revenue, which met expectations. The Consumer segment outperformed with a 3% revenue increase driven by organic sales growth, while adjusted operating income rose 10% across both business segments, aided by lower SG&A expenses. Investor optimism was also fueled by management reaffirming full-year guidance, projecting 1% - 3% constant-currency revenue growth and a 3% increase in operating income and EPS at the midpoint. Analysts' consensus view on McCormicks stock is moderately optimistic, with a "Moderate Buy" rating overall. Among 14 analysts covering the stock, six recommend "Strong Buy," one suggests "Moderate Buy," six advise "Hold," and one "Strong Sell." As of writing, the stock is trading below the average analyst price target of $85.40. On the date of publication, Sohini Mondal did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com A Texas dad who moved his family to Russia to escape what he called LGBT indoctrination is now stunned that his service in Vladimir Putins army has elicited hatred from critics. Derek Huffman, a 46-year-old former construction worker, made headlines earlier this year when he uprooted his wife and three young daughters for a new life in Moscow, leaving Texas in search of more traditional values. In May, he joined the Russian military in the hopes of fast-tracking citizenship. By June, the new recruit was a little surprised to be heading for a combat role on the front lines in Ukraine. The Huffman family in Moscow's Red Square. / Huffman Time/X Earlier this month, Huffman was rumoredwithout evidenceto have been killed by a Ukrainian drone strike. A Maltese site even dubiously claimed he was confirmed dead, citing unnamed footage it did not share. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reports were false, as Huffman revealed in a recorded phone call from July 25 and posted two days later on his and wife DeAnnas YouTube channel, Huffman Time. But the reports of his death and the jubilant response from some critics rattled Huffman. Im just blown away at the level of hate, he told DeAnna. Im only doing what I feel is right... but the level of hate for Russia is insane. Huffman appeared particularly shocked that the false news of his death had been met with open celebration on social media. Shame on all these people, he said. Theyre saying theyre glad Im dead... Im serving my military with honor. The couple, who chronicle their new life in Russia online, were quick to dismiss the drone strike rumors as clickbait. [It] is just publicity seeking, Huffman claimed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the same conversation, he pushed back on criticism that his Christian faith clashed with his decision to join a military accused by the International Criminal Court of war crimesincluding forcibly deporting Ukrainian children and bombing hospitals. Derek Huffman, 45, of Texas, records a video during training after joining the Russian military. / HuffmanTime/Youtube I dont relish the idea of taking life, Huffman said. But Im doing what I feel is right. People ought to try that sometimes. The Huffmans, once a suburban family in the American South, now promote their brand of traditional values from behind enemy lines on YouTube, where DeAnna, a former teacher and floral designer, shares videos about their Russian relocation and his military service. In a video from May, Derek addressed people who might think [hes] crazy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A big part of it for me is respect and earning our place in Russia. If you think about America, people just come on in and are given everything, and they dont assimilate, he said. Theyre just there for the free handouts. His wife described the move to the frontlines as challenging in a since-deleted video. AUSTIN (KXAN) A man accused of killing 20-year-old Comarri Thompson in a drive-by shooting on July 19 near East Braker Lane and Dessau Road was arrested Thursday by the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force, an Austin Police Department news release said. Kenan Greene, 25, was booked into the Travis County jail and faces a murder charge, which is a first-degree felony, according to APD. Greenes arrest comes after a warrant was filed on Wednesday, APD said. Kenan Greene, 25 | Mugshot provided by Austin Police Department) Attorney information has not been listed for Greene. KXAN will reach out to the attorney for Greene once one has been listed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just after 2 a.m. on July 19, Austin police responded to a shoot/stab hotshot call at 804 East Braker Lane. A woman later identified as Thompsons girlfriend called police to report that she was shot and someone was dead, APD said. When officers arrived, they found the caller and Thompson, both with gunshot wounds. Responding medics attempted life saving measures, but were unsuccessful, according to APD. Thompson died because of his gunshot wounds, police said. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. APD said the investigation showed the couple were in a vehicle at Braker Lane and Dessau Road when a white vehicle pulled up next to them and shot multiple times into their car, killing Thompson. A prior feud in March 2025 on social media between Thompson and another person may have led to his murder, and according to an affidavit obtained by KXAN, it could have been gang related. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The affidavit revealed Thompson texted this person: Monte dead as a [expletive] n his killers still walking around here referencing a different gang-associated murder. Austin Police Gang Unit detectives believe he implied to this person that his associates were weak for not retaliating, which then led to a violent retaliation against Thompson as a result of the disrespect. This case marks Austins 34th homicide of 2025. KXAN tracks the number of homicides in Austin and that data can be found here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. WEATHERFORD, Okla. (KFOR) When astronaut Tom Stafford and cosmonaut Aleksey Leonov opened a hatch connecting their two spacecraft in July of 1975, it marked the first of what would become many joint missions to space, including the current International Space Station. Current Executive Director at the Tom Stafford Air and Space Museum, Colton Parkinson, has been answering questions and directing visitors around exhibit spaces in July of 2025 because Stafford, who commanded the mission, managed to save a lot of artifacts from that occasion. One of the prizes, a pencil sketch of Stafford drawn in space by Leonov, no space pen necessary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a one-off, he points out. This is the only one in existence. The Soviets, instead of developing a new pen, just used a pencil, and it worked just fine. The memorabilia department at NASA was busy that year. On display at the museum in Weatherford are pins, medals, dolls, and even cigarettes to celebrate the first of its kind space flight. To dock with an international partner had never been done before, states Parkinson. The U.S. and Soviet Union were Cold War adversaries at the time, which is partly why the Apollo Soyuz Test Project took 3 years to plan. One of the most contentious problems became how to dock the Russian and American modules without one inserting the other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A low point in life and a dome to cover it: Prairie Haven is Oklahomas newest round barn Parkinson smiles, So they had to come up with a universal coupling mechanism that didnt make one more dominant than the other. Its wild to think about some of the politics and egos at play that affected decisions. So much that happened then provided the cooperative groundwork still in use a half-century later. Glass cases are filled with photographs and artifacts brought back to Staffords hometown museum. The Stafford Museum has a small exhibit of mission-related art and photographs on display to mark the 50th anniversary of Apollo-Soyuz. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information, click here. Great State is sponsored by True Sky Credit Union Follow Galens Great State adventures on social media! Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. An appeals court has upheld the conviction of a man accused of causing a deadly crash in Warren County in 2023. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Samuel Sperry, 28, of Cincinnati, was found guilty of aggravated vehicular homicide, aggravated vehicular assault, and several other charges for a crash that killed 76-year-old Shirley Coletta. His conviction was affirmed by the Twelfth District Court of Appeals, Warren County Prosecutor David P. Fornshell announced on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sperry was found to have been driving at 124 miles per hour on Interstate 71 in Deerfield Township with high levels of marijuana in his system when he collided with Colettas vehicle. TRENDING STORIES: Coletta was killed in the crash and her passenger was seriously injured. The trial court sentenced Sperry to an aggregate prison term of 9-12 years and imposed a lifetime drivers license suspension. This is yet another case where Ohio law is too lenient when it comes to sentencing high-speed and impaired drivers who kill or seriously injure innocent citizens who are just living their lives, driving down the road, completely unaware that their lives are about to end, or at best, be forever changed by the actions of someone who chooses to be reckless, Fornshell said. Fornshell went on to say he was grateful to the judges in the appeals court who saw through Sperrys meritless arguments. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] WASHINGTON (AP) Support for Israels military action in Gaza has declined substantially among U.S. adults, with only about one-third approving, according to a new Gallup poll a drop from the beginning of the war with Hamas, when about half of Americans approved of Israels operation. The new polling also found that about half of U.S. adults now have an unfavorable view of Israels prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, the most negative rating he has received since he was first included in Gallup polling in 1997. The poll was conducted from July 7-21, while reports of starvation in Gaza led to international criticism of Israels decision to restrict food aid but before President Donald Trump expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation. The findings underscore the Israeli government's dramatic loss of support within the U.S. But not everyone is shifting instead, the war has become more politically polarizing. The rising disapproval is driven by Democrats and independents, who are much less likely to approve of Israels actions than they were in November 2023, weeks after Hamas Oct. 7 surprise attack and after Israel expanded its ground offensive in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans, on the other hand, remain largely supportive of both Israel's military actions and Netanyahu. Most Americans now disapprove of Israeli military action in Gaza The new poll finds that about 6 in 10 U.S. adults disapprove of the military action Israel has taken in Gaza, up from 45% in November 2023. Support for the war has been dwindling in Gallups polling for some time. In March 2024, about half of U.S. adults disapproved of Israels military action in Gaza, which fell slightly as the year wore on. In a new low, only 8% of Democrats and one-quarter of independents say they now approve of Israel's military campaign. Some of that decline may be attributed to the change in administration. While former President Joe Biden faced significant pushback from fellow Democrats on his handling of the conflict between the Israelis and the Palestinians, they may be even more frustrated by the approach of Trump, a Republican. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Young adults are also much more likely to disapprove of Israel's actions. Only about 1 in 10 adults under age 35 say they approve of Israel's military choices in Gaza, compared with about half of those who are 55 or older. Gallup senior editor Megan Brenan says the latest figures reflect the enduring partisan divide. Even as Democrats grow increasingly unhappy with Israel's military campaign, Republicans remain supportive. Weve seen this drop in approval since last fall, and its really driven by Democrats and independents, Brenan says. Republicans are still willing to be in this for the time being. Netanyahus favorability among US adults is historically low Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Views of Netanyahu have also grown less favorable over the past few years, with more viewing him negatively than positively in measurements taken since the war in Gaza began. About half of U.S. adults, 52%, now have an unfavorable view of Netanyahu in the new poll, which overlapped with Netanyahu's recent visit to the U.S. Just 29% view him positively, and about 2 in 10 either havent heard of him or dont have an opinion. Thats a change although not a huge one since December 2023, when 47% of U.S. adults had an unfavorable view of Netanyahu and 33% had a favorable opinion. But its a reversal from as recently as April 2019, when more U.S. adults viewed him positively than negatively. Republicans have a much more positive view of Netanyahu than Democrats and independents do. About two-thirds of Republicans view him favorably, which is in line with last year. About 1 in 10 Democrats and 2 in 10 independents feel the same way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the first time weve seen a majority of Americans, with an unfavorable view of him, Brenan says. All of these questions in this poll show us basically the same story, and it's not a good one for the Israeli government right now. Trump is unlikely to face the same pressure on his approach to Israel More than half of U.S. adults, 55%, disapprove of Trumps handling of the situation in the Middle East, according to a July AP-NORC poll. But the conflict has not weighed as heavily on Trump as it did on Biden, who watched Democrats splinter on the issue. Thats because of Trumps solid support from his base on this issue, further reflected in Republicans' continued approval of Israel's military action. About 8 in 10 Republicans approve of Trumps handling of the situation in the Middle East. By contrast, only about 4 in 10 Democrats approved of Bidens handling of the conflict between the Israelis and the Palestinians last summer, shortly before he dropped out of the presidential race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an AP-NORC poll from March, Republicans were significantly more likely than Democrats and independents to say they sympathized more with the Israelis than with the Palestinians in the conflict. And while Americans overall were more likely to say it was extremely or very important for the United States to provide humanitarian relief to Palestinians in Gaza than to say the same about providing aid to Israel's military, Republicans said the opposite more saw military aid to Israel as a higher priority than providing humanitarian relief to the Palestinians in Gaza. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Arkansas State Police (ASP) released a sketch of the man they suspect is a person of interest in connection to a double homicide that killed a married couple. Sketch and photo of Devils Den suspect (ASP) Investigators say on Saturday, July 26, at Devils Den State Park, they discovered the bodies of Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, who were killed while hiking with their two daughters. Arkansas police release sketch drawing in search for killer at Devils Den State Park Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both children were unharmed and are safe with family. Witnesses say that observed the suspect leaving the area in a black, four-door sedan with its license plate covered by tape traveling along State Highway 170 or State Highway 220. If you know any information, ASP are urging you to call their tip line at (501) 618-TIPS or to submit a tip online at https://ar.accessgov.com/asp/Forms/Page/asp/crimetipform/1. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. The Arab world has told Hamas to disarm and surrender control of Gaza. Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Egypt called for the Palestinian terror group to disband on Tuesday, the first time they have done so. They joined 14 other countries, including Britain and France, in signing a statement that also condemned the Oct 7 terror attacks and told Hamas to give up power. It is the first time Arab countries have condemned the group and demanded it play no part in the future governance of Palestine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the context of ending the war in Gaza, Hamas must end its rule in Gaza and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority, with international engagement and support, in line with the objective of a sovereign and independent Palestinian State, reads the declaration, which was produced after a conference at the United Nations. Jean-Noel Barrot, Frances foreign minister, said the declaration was both historic and unprecedented. For the first time, Arab countries and those in the Middle East condemn Hamas, condemn October 7, call for the disarmament of Hamas, call for its exclusion from Palestinian governance, and clearly express their intention to normalise relations with Israel in the future, he said. Palestinians carry flour back from an aid delivery in Rafah on Tuesday - GETTY IMAGES David Lammy backed the statement when he addressed the UN Assembly on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas must never be rewarded for the monstrous attack on Oct 7, the Foreign Secretary said. It must immediately release the hostages, agree to an immediate ceasefire, accept it will have no role in governing Gaza and commit to disarmament. He was speaking after Sir Keir Starmer said Britain would recognise Palestine as a state unless Israel met a series of conditions, including ending the appalling situation in Gaza. The Prime Ministers announcement prompted condemnation from the United States, Israel and Jewish groups. By signing the statement, the Arab nations also demanded the release of all remaining Israeli hostages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only by ending the war in Gaza, releasing all hostages, ending occupation, rejecting violence and terror, realising an independent, sovereign, and democratic Palestinian State, ending the occupation of all Arab territories and providing solid security guarantees for Israel and Palestine, can normal relations and coexistence among the regions peoples and States be achieved, it reads. Pro-Palestine protesters outside Egypts embassy in New York on Monday - GETTY IMAGES The text, which was also signed by Canada and other Western nations, also supports a two-state solution and the deployment of foreign forces to Gaza when the war ends. We supported the deployment of a temporary international stabilisation mission upon invitation by the Palestinian Authority and under the aegis of the United Nations and in line with UN principles, building on existing UN capacities, to be mandated by the UN Security Council, with appropriate regional and international support, it reads. The statement calls on Benjamin Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders to issue a clear public commitment to the two-state solution, including a sovereign and viable Palestinian State. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel and the United States boycotted the conference and did not sign the declaration. Earlier this month, Hamas sources told Saudi media that the group would consider laying down its arms as part of a ceasefire deal with Israel. Emmanuel Macron announced last week that France would recognise Palestinian statehood. For decades, most UN members have supported a two-state solution with Israel and a Palestinian state existing side by side. But Antonio Guterres, the UNs secretary general, said at a meeting on Monday that the two-state solution is farther than ever before. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The process to elect a new Archbishop of Wales has begun, after a turbulent period for the Church in Wales. Former Archbishop of Wales Andrew John announced his decision to retire with immediate effect in June following two report summaries highlighting safeguarding concerns and misbehaviour at Bangor Cathedral. His successor, who will become the 15th person to hold the title, will be chosen from the serving Welsh diocesan bishops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Electoral College are meeting at St Pierre Church and Hotel in Chepstow, with the process taking up to three days. Mr John announced his decision to retire from the role with immediate effect on June 27, as well as confirming he would also be retiring as Bishop of Bangor on 31 August. It followed the publication of summaries of two reports earlier this year which mentioned "a culture in which sexual boundaries seemed blurred". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reports also found excessive alcohol consumption as well as governance and safeguarding weaknesses at Bangor Cathedral. Shortly after there were calls for Mr John, who was elected Archbishop of Wales in December 2021, to resign. The full reports have not been published but there is no suggestion the former archbishop has behaved inappropriately. Meanwhile The Church in Wales said it had created an implementation group to ensure the issues raised in the reports are addressed. Andrew John's successor will become the 15th person to hold the title [Getty Images] Earlier this year, the former Archbishop of Wales admitted he was aware of a safeguarding incident involving a drunken sexual assault in his diocese, despite previously denying knowledge of "that sort of behaviour". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After initially denying any awareness of it in an interview with BBC Radio Cymru's Bwrw Golwg, a Church in Wales spokesperson confirmed the matter had been reported to Mr John but said he had no licence to officiate, which Mr John said his comments referred to. There is no suggestion that Mr John behaved inappropriately. In June two priests within Bangor Cathedral publicly called for an independent inquiry into the cathedral and diocese [BBC] How will a new archbishop be elected? The meeting of the Electoral College will begin with Holy Communion at St Peter's Church in Chepstow, which is on the St Pierre estate, before college members begin confidential discussions. The successor will be chosen from the serving Welsh diocesan bishops: The Bishop of St Asaph, Gregory Cameron The Bishop of Monmouth, Cherry Vann The Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, John Lomas The Bishop of Llandaff, Mary Stallard The Bishop of St Davids, Dorrien Davies Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To make the decision, each of the six dioceses elects three clerics onto the college as well as three lay people, who are members of the religious community but not part of the clergy. The current bishops are also members. After a discussion and a period of reflection, the president will call for nominations and the bishops nominated must then withdraw from the discussion. A nominee must achieve two thirds of the votes of the college in order to be elected as archbishop. If, after a vote is taken, no candidate receives the necessary votes the process begins again with fresh nominations. Once the archbishop is elected, they will be enthroned in his or her home cathedral at a later date. Carlos Salgado wowed the world of Mexican food the moment he opened Taco Maria in 2013. His marriage of high-end with homestyle sturgeon tacos, Flamin Hot chicharrones, handmade blue corn tortillas from kernels he imported from Mexico and milled himself seemed better suited to Los Angeles or Mexico City than a hipster food hall in Costa Mesa. The accolades came quickly: L.A Times restaurant of the year in 2018. Four straight Michelin stars. One of Esquire's most important U.S. restaurants of the 2010s. Salgado was a Best Chef in California finalist for the James Beard Awards the Oscars of the restaurant industry in June 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A month later, Salgado shocked his fans by closing Taco Maria. As his good friend, I have the exclusive on whats next. Its Wisconsin? A few months after the restaurant closed, Salgado relocated to Door County the childhood home of his wife, Emilie Coulson Salgado in a move that left Southern Californias food scene befuddled, if people knew at all. Read more: Appreciation: Farewell for now, Taco Maria. We didn't deserve you If anyone deserved to go all Walden, it was the thoughtful Salgado. He had worked nonstop for a decade, weathering the pandemic and an Orange County audience that usually got mad when he explained why his space didnt serve chips and salsa or had Black Lives Matter stenciled on the patio window. Taco Marias lease was up, the location was never the best fit and Carlos and Emilie wanted to spend more time with their two young children and her parents while they recharged and decided what was next. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, after some time off, they're in the restaurant business again, opening La Sirena this month in Ephraim, population 345, about an hour and a half away from the nearest big city, Green Bay. Expect everything that made Taco Maria so incredible a prix fixe menu, a focus on local produce and meat, those fabulous blue corn tortillas that taste like a time portal to Tenochtitlan except on the shores of Lake Michigan instead of off the 405 freeway. Nothing against the Badger State, but the idea of a Mexican chef of Salgados caliber setting up on a peninsula jutting into a Great Lake is like Shohei Ohtani announcing hes leaving the Dodgers to join a Sunday beer league. Gustavo Dudamel deciding his next gig isnt the New York Philharmonic but the Whittier Regional Symphony. Gov. Gavin Newsom forsaking his office to run the Friends of the Sacramento Public Library. About 8% of Wisconsins population is Latino, and Door County is 96% white. The Mexican food scene outside Milwaukee and maybe Racine is still mostly combo plates washed down with massive margaritas, or cartoonishly big burritos in the Chipotle model. Wisconsin is ... Wisconsin, land of cheese curds and brats and brandy Old Fashioneds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would push back that [Mexican food] is out of place anywhere in the United States, Salgado told me by phone last week. We are the foundation of the restaurant and hospitality industry, farming and construction I dont need to say all the ways were embedded. He sure shut me up there! Besides, Im proud that his and Emilies next step is in an isolated spot in a state that went for Donald Trump in two of the past three elections. California needs all the ambassadors we can get, especially in places that dont look like us and we cant get better ambassadors than them. In parts of the Midwest, you mention youre from California, theres inevitably haters who want to believe that we left California because its a failed state, and they try to commiserate with us about how California is uninhabitable, the 45-year-old Salgado said. Of course, I dont believe that. I have pangs of longing for my home state every day, especially fruits! I actually thought wed live in California forever, and I still consider us California people, Coulson Salgado, 41, said in a separate interview. But this experiment to be here [Wisconsin] turned out to be really good for us and our children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two met in San Francisco in 2008, when Coulson Salgado was working for a literacy nonprofit and Salgado was a pastry chef at a high-end restaurant. He moved back to his native Orange County in 2011 aiming to help with his immigrant familys Cal-Mex restaurant in Orange. Instead, he capitalized on the eras food truck craze and opened Taco Maria. Coulson moved down in 2013 to help transition the luxe lonchera to a brick-and-mortar, eventually becoming the restaurant's general manager and beverage director, roles she will also assume at La Sirena. Taco Maria was a daily miracle, especially given its Orange County location. Salgado got nationwide media coverage and forced Angelenos to do the unimaginable: travel to O.C. for Mexican food. His exhortations for people to value Mexican cuisine and the people who make it was essential in an era where too many Americans love the former and loathe the latter. But the grind of running a restaurant which I know too well, through my wife wore on the couple. They didnt want to be rushed into opening a new Taco Maria, so they decided a sojourn to Door County would be fun and also right. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emilie put in 15 years with me in California, Salgado said, and moving to Wisconsin was something we felt we deserved as a family. Read more: Taco Marias Carlos Salgado on becoming a chef He unwound from the restaurant rush by hiking through Door Countys forests and fishing in its waterways while continuing Taco Marias successful salsa macha mail-order business; Emilie moonlighted as a grant writer. The plan was to return to California sometime in 2024 and hop back on the restaurant hamster wheel. But the more they experienced Door Countys slower pace of life, the more they realized it would be nearly impossible to replicate that in Southern California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We started Taco Maria without kids, Salgado said. This trial gave us the opportunity to imagine the kind of balance that we wanted, and we realized that we stood a very good chance of creating it here. I asked if he meant the cost of living or the sclerotic traffic or the lack of affordable housing or any of the other reasons California quitters give when they leave and whine about their move. Were certainly not California quitters, Salgado deadpanned. People talk all the time about making career changes to spend more time with their families, and this is really it for now. Coulson Salgado said its been wonderful to return to where she grew up with the eyes of an adult. Door County has seen newcomers from California in recent years, mostly young families drawn by its immaculate landscapes. She does miss the multiculturalism of Southern California My son will say, Lets get pho! and I have to remind him were not in Orange County anymore, she said with a laugh. Chef Carlos Salgado scoops cooked organic blue maze corn into a wet mill to grind for tortillas at Taco Maria in Costa Mesa on Tuesday, February 16, 2016. (Christina House / Los Angeles Times) She doesnt frame the opening of La Sirena in the rural Midwest in the age of Trump as a political act. But she brought up the terrible deportation deluge that has hit Southern California this summer (Wisconsin has so far been spared, but were on high alert for it) as a reason why their presence matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not like were in some alternate universe out here, she said, but you could be if you werent paying attention, and thats whats scary But thats why its more important than ever to create more pockets of joy. Her husband vowed that California "hasn't seen the last of us yet," while giving no timeline for a return. In an ideal world, he and Emilie would run both La Sirena and a restaurant back in O.C. "Im proudly Mexican American," Salgado said. "And Im not going to shy away from taking up space and perform brown excellence in anywhere that I am. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The Brief Carlos Cruz, 38, was sentenced to natural life plus 57 years in prison for the death of his 3-year-old daughter. In 2015, the child died after she was found nonresponsive inside a home in Surprise. Last March, Cruz pleaded guilty to murder, child abuse and kidnapping. SURPRISE, Ariz. - A west Valley man convicted of killing his young daughter over a decade ago has been sentenced to prison. Carlos Cruz, 38, received a sentence of natural life plus 57 years in prison, the Maricopa County Attorney's Office announced on July 28. The backstory On May 23, 2015, firefighters found a nonresponsive 3-year-old girl inside a Surprise home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When they arrived, the child was cold, pale, and not breathing," the MCAO said. The child was taken to a hospital where she was pronounced dead. "Staff reported to police that the victim had the lowest blood sugar they could measure and weighed merely 16 pounds. Her body and head were covered in scars, open lesions, bruising, and swelling," MCAO said. "According to the Maricopa County Medical Examiner, the victims cause of death was a combination of blunt force injuries, starvation, dehydration, and meth toxicity. The child also had ligature marks on her ankles, and her bones were nearly translucent, a sign of prolonged malnutrition." Cruz, the girl's father, was arrested. According to MCAO, he initially claimed his daughter's injuries were from multiple falls but later admitted to hitting her with a belt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Police also discovered a cell phone video where the defendant told the victims mother, co-defendant Rosemary Velazco, to deny the child food," MCAO said. Dig deeper MCAO says in 2018, Velazco was sentenced to natural life in prison plus a consecutive term of 59 years after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including first-degree murder. Last March, Cruz was convicted of first-degree murder, child abuse and kidnapping. What they're saying "The defendant stood by as his child starved, doing nothing to help and instead added to her suffering through beatings and abuse," Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell said. "Thanks to the dedication of MCAO Prosecutors James Baumann and Richard Dusterhoft, this child is finally getting justice." McEwen has signed a binding letter of intent (LoI) with Canadian Gold to acquire all its issued and outstanding securities, which would make the latter a wholly owned subsidiary of McEwen upon completion. The proposed transaction would see Canadian Gold shareholders receive 0.0225 of a McEwen share for each Canadian Gold share, valuing the latter at C$0.35 ($0.25) each, a 26% premium over the 30-day volume-weighted average price as of 25 July 2025. Canadian Gold shareholders will own around 8.2% of the combined entity. Canadian Gold's key asset, the Tartan Mine in Manitoba, Canada, is a high-grade former producing mine with significant exploration potential and existing infrastructure. Canadian Gold also possesses 100% interests in the Hammond Reef and Malartic South exploration properties in Ontario and Quebec. These are adjacent to some of Canadas largest gold mines. McEwen chairman and chief owner Rob McEwen said: "I am enthusiastic about the Tartan Mine for several reasons. First, it is a high-grade gold deposit with strong exploration potential in Canada. Second, the existing infrastructure, including the mine ramp, roads and power, provides an opportunity to restart operations within a relatively short time frame. Third, Manitoba stands out as one of the world's premier mining jurisdictions, offering a skilled workforce, low-cost renewable energy and attractive mining tax credits. Additionally, the Tartan Mine shares many similarities with our Fox Complex, enabling us to leverage our internal expertise and resources to maximise its potential." The Tartan Mine is expected to recommence production within two to three years, with substantial exploration potential bolstered by Canadian Gold's recent optioning of the adjacent Tartan West property. The proposed transaction is subject to a court-approved plan of arrangement, shareholder approvals and regulatory consents, including approval from both the Toronto and New York stock exchange. Shareholder votes are expected by the end of 2025, with a special meeting for Canadian Gold shareholders. The arrangement agreement will include customary provisions, deal protection and the ability for Canadian Gold to consider superior proposals. "McEwen signs LoI to acquire Canadian Gold" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. Illustration via Getty Images For almost a year, Arizonas school voucher program was too busy for Arizona Department of Education employees to even attempt to comply with a new state law requiring collaboration with the auditor generals office to create procedures for ongoing audits of voucher spending. Instead, the Empowerment Scholarship Account voucher program, known commonly as ESAs, focused on appeasing parents who opposed new purchase limits, while workers struggled to keep up with purchase reviews. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the state budget approved in 2024, the Arizona Legislature required the ESA program to work with the states auditor general to create risk-based auditing procedures. The goal of that law, which went into effect in September 2024, is to ensure that students and parents who use the program comply with rules on how the money is used. But last week, Arizona Auditor General Lindsay Perry told the lawmakers on the Joint Legislative Audit Committee that the Education Department had blown off her offices repeated requests over months to meet with ESA administrators and create the audit processes. Ten months after the laws effective date and eight months after the department purportedly implemented a risk-based auditing process, the department still has not met with my team to develop those risk-based auditing procedures or consult with my office as required, Perry said during the July 21 JLAC meeting. The ESA program was created in 2012 to provide vouchers for students with disabilities. After the Arizona Supreme Court concluded the vouchers were constitutional, backers set about expanding who could participate. The programs growth was incremental at first students attending failing schools, children in foster care, the kids of military members and it served around 12,000 students. But in 2022, it was expanded to a universal program by then-Gov. Doug Ducey and the Republican-led Arizona Legislature. The program is now available to all of the states roughly one million K-12 students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The program works by giving the parents of participating students a debit card that can be used to pay for various educational costs, or reimbursing the parents for those costs. The costs can include private or parochial school tuition, homeschooling supplies and even savings for college tuition. There are currently more than 87,600 students enrolled, with around 4,000 applications waiting for approval, according to the Department of Education. The majority of those students never attended public school. Since the universal expansion was implemented, it has been contentious. Republican lawmakers and supporters of school choice say they should get taxpayer funding no matter where their children attend school. Democratic legislators and public school advocates say the program lacks accountability, serves as an entitlement program for wealthy families who were already sending their kids to private school and siphons much needed money away from public schools. The cost of the program has skyrocketed since the initial $300 million universal expansion in 2022, with a cost of $869 million last year, and an expectation of more than 90,000 participants in the 2025-26 school year at a cost of around $1 billion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Ward, the executive director of the ESA program, told JLAC that complying with the new law was not a priority. Our main responsibility is to get students who want to be on this program on the program, to review their purchases, and to provide customer service as they call in and need support, Ward said. So, that is our core mission. Thats what were focused on. Its very difficult with this very small staff to do much more than daily operations. Ward said that when ESA staff tried to push back the meeting to create auditing procedures until after the new handbook had been approved initially set for March the Auditor Generals Office refused and insisted on an earlier meeting. We didnt feel like that was a very cooperative approach to take with us, and at that point, we said, Look, were going to keep focusing on the handbook. Were going to keep focusing on daily operations, Ward said. When this handbook is behind us, we will reach out to the Auditor Generals Office, which were more than happy to do to work with them on risk-based auditing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Handbook negotiations dragged on, as parents objected to purchase limits, such as a $4,000 annual cap on musical instruments and $2,500 for physical education. The new handbook, without purchase limits, was approved in June. But as of July 21, nearly a month after the ESA handbook was approved, Ward admitted that his office had not reached out to state auditors. The two entities only began phone and virtual discussions about the risk-based audit procedures after the July 21 JLAC meeting when Chairman Mark Finchem, R-Prescott, said he expected them to meet on the subject within two weeks. The auditor general takes state law very seriously and making sure that we meet those obligations, Perry said. I understand, from Mr. Wards perspective, the difficulties with staffing. However, this is not the only issue that we have delayed with the department. The Department of Education also repeatedly delayed and failed to provide documents requested in a 48-month follow up to a 2020 audit of the ESA program, with recommendations from that audit that still hadnt been implemented as of November 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite its failure to work with the auditor general to create processes for it, the ESA program implemented risk-based auditing for all purchases below $2,000 last December. That change coincided with a decision to automatically approve all purchases below that amount to clear a backlog of 89,000 purchases waiting for approval. At the rate it was going, we never could have caught up with the size of our staff, Ward said, adding that the $2,000 threshold was decided alongside the ESA Parent Handbook Committee. For the risk-based audits, Ward said the staff focused on purchases from account-holders who had previous misspending, as well as those for supplementary materials and tutoring, which they found to be higher-risk for fraud than things like tuition expenses. The 12 employees who review transactions are expected to complete risk-based audits of 250 less-than-$2,000 purchases each day, as well as collectively review all purchases for more than $2,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In total, the voucher program approves nearly 11,000 purchases every day, according to its 2025 fiscal year third quarter report. Some of those purchases, of items with clear educational value, are automatically approved by Classwallet, the vendor that manages ESA debit cards and accounts. Over the past several years, parents have used ESA funds to purchase a nearly $4,000 piano, and several parents used the funds to pay an average of more than $800 apiece for driving lessons in luxury vehicles. Several people have been indicted or convicted of ESA fraud, including a Utah couple who invented 43 fictitious children who enrolled. During our audits, every single day, we catch something that represents misspending or inappropriate spending, Ward said. However, its impossible to say how much fraud and misspending isnt caught when most purchases under $2,000 arent automatically reviewed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Have any purchases (in error) been done that your staff has not caught? Republican Rep. Michael Carbone, of Buckeye, asked Ward. Carbone later said that he gave credit to the ESA staff for catching grandiose misspending. Beth Lewis, executive director of Save Our Schools Arizona, a public school advocacy group that opposes ESA vouchers, told the Arizona Mirror that it doesnt seem to her as if the Republicans on JLAC are taking fraud and abuse in the ESA program seriously. I mean, if youre asking about the discovery of the absence of fraud its just its wild to me, Lewis said in reaction to Carbones question. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even as JLAC urged Ward to comply with the existing law and work with the Auditor Generals Office to create risk-based audit procedures, Finchem said that calls for increased oversight of the program were unnecessary. Theres a call for overregulation of that program that quite frankly theres a reason it was designed the way it was in the first place, he said. I dont think we want to tinker with that. I am very pleased to see that, more often than not, inappropriate expenditures are not only captured by ADE, but clawed back. That means that your 40 people are doing a good job. I just dont know that its fully fleshed out as to what that job is. Republican Rep. Matt Gress, of Phoenix, attempted to get funding to hire 12 more purchase reviewers for the ESA program in the state budget this year, but ultimately failed. There was money allocated for the hires in a budget proposal approved by the House of Representatives in June, but that budget was created without input from the Governors Office or Senate Republicans. The creators of that budget, which included numerous concessions to far-right lawmakers, knew it had zero chance of getting a signature from Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesman for Hobbs, Christian Slater, told the Mirror that the request for additional ESA employees was discussed during budget negotiations between Senate Republicans and Hobbs, but was left out because Republicans wouldnt agree to any accountability measures to go along with the increased staff. House Republicans refused to agree to common sense accountability measures to go along with the increased investments, even refusing to require something as basic as evaluating all purchases under $2k, Slater said in an emailed statement. More bureaucrats at ADE will not result in the basic guardrails we need on ESAs. Arizona doesnt need more government spending on an entitlement program with no accountability, no transparency, and no guardrails. Lewis told the Mirror that she believes any Republican who dares to call for increased accountability for the ESA program runs the risk of losing their seat in the next election. I just feel as though special interests have said, This is the program. This is how the program stands. Theres no changing of the program and there is no real question-asking about the program and anybody who deviates from that will be primaried, she said. After Republican Superintendent of Public Schools Tom Horne acquiesced to some ESA accountability demands from Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes, many far-right school choice supporters backed Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee in her attempt to unseat Horne in 2026. ***CLARIFICATION: The lede of this story has been updated to clarify that the Arizona Department of Education, for nearly a year, disregarded a requirement of the new state law to collaborate with the Arizona Auditor General to create processes for risk-based audits of ESA purchases. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE If you haven't done back-to-school shopping for your children and feel like you have missed out on most bargains, a new study aimed at pinpointing where to get the most affordable supplies could help you. A new report by CashNetUSA collected the prices of 52 essential school supplies across 26 of the most popular national and regional chains, favoring the cheapest option available. They then calculated the total cost of elementary, middle and high school supplies for each store, to identify the most affordable ones in each state. As the new school year kicks off across Arizona, heres where to shop for savings plus a few tips to help you cut costs. Most affordable stores for school supplies in Arizona Here are the best stores do budget-friendly back-to-school shopping in Arizona, along with their average total cost for back-to-school purchases, according to CashNetUSA: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walmart: $105.88 Dollar General: $129.75 Target: $138.05 Most expensive stores for school supplies in Arizona Meanwhile, these retailers had the highest prices on school supplies in Arizona. Here is their average total cost for back-to-school purchases, according to CashNetUSA: Safeway: $436.77 Albertsons: $344.16 Staples: $222.18 Arizona education: Phoenix Elementary School District is boosting student health with mobile clinics How much do families spend on back-to-school shopping on average? According to a report by the National Retail Federation, families' back-to-school budget has consistently remained between $849 and $890 on average for the past four years. Nationwide, total back-to-school spending adds up to roughly $40 billion annually, including $6.3 billion on items like notebooks, folders, pens and scissors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the 202425 school year, the U.S. Senate Federal Credit Union estimated that parents expected to spend around $586 per child, broken down like this: Clothing : $169 Shoes : $113 Electronics : $206 Stationery and other supplies: $94 5 tips to save on back-to-school essentials Here are five tips from CashNetUSA to keep the back-to-school shopping bill further down: Shop around: Shoppers can bring the price of supplies down by picking up individual items from different stores. Make a list: Make a list of essentials before you get to the store and only buy whats on it. Audit your supplies: Pens, scissors and notebooks tend to go missing in backpacks and around the home. Collect everything you already have, and you may find there are items you can tick off before you go shopping. Put money aside: Your back-to-school classroom bill could be anything from $90 to $150 or more. Put aside $10 per month in advance, and the hit will be easier to take when the time comes. Involve your child: Make a budget on paper with your child before you go shopping. This can help manage their expectations and even motivate them to look for savings. How the study was created CashNetUSA gathered pricing data in March 2025, manually reviewing the cost of 52 school supply items for elementary, middle, and high school students at 26 national and regional chains. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They selected the lowest-priced option for each item and totaled the costs by grade level and by store to determine which retailers offered the best value overall in each state. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: How to shop around for cheap school supplies in Arizona Arkansas Public Policy Panel Executive Director Bill Kopsky discusses a proposed constitutional amendment to preserve direct democracy in Arkansas during a press conference at the state Capitol on May 19, 2025. Kopsky's organization is a member of Protect AR Rights, the ballot question committee that submitted its proposal to the attorney general's office. (Sonny Albarado/Arkansas Advocate) Arkansas attorney general on Monday certified a ballot title aimed at preserving voters right to direct democracy after previously rejecting the proposal twice for failing to meet a new reading-level law. Act 602 of 2025 prohibits the attorney general from certifying a proposed ballot title with a reading level above eighth grade as determined by the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level formula. The test uses word complexity and sentence lengths to calculate what level of education is needed to comprehend written material. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Mondays opinion, Attorney General Tim Griffin said the most recent submission from Protect AR Rights ranks at a 9.2 grade level. Griffin certified the ballot title after making a few minor changes to ensure it meets the reading-level requirement. He also made several changes to the ballot title so it more clearly and accurately reflects the contents of the proposed constitutional amendment. Griffin certified the measures popular name as submitted. We were notified today that the Arkansas Attorney General amended and then approved the ballot title for the Arkansas Ballot Measure Rights Amendment, Protect AR Rights said in a statement. Our campaign partners and legal team are still assessing the AGs opinion and its impact on our campaign to protect the fundamental right of every Arkansas citizen to have a say in the laws that impact us. With the attorney generals certification, Protect AR Rights may begin collecting signatures to qualify its measure for the 2026 ballot. Although Griffin signed off on the measures popular name and substituted ballot title Monday, he cautioned that ambiguity in lengthy and complex constitutional amendments could lead to a successful court challenge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Significant changes in law often have unintended consequences that, if known, would give voters serious ground for reflection, Griffin said. As several of my predecessors have noted when certifying certain lengthy and complex ballot titles, the Arkansas Supreme Court has repeatedly warned sponsors of statewide measures about their ballot titles length and complexity. Griffin also said he was including a copy of instructions to canvassers and signers that he said must be incorporated into Protect AR Rights petition before circulation. Canvassers and signers must meet a number of new requirements following passage of several direct democracy-related laws during the 2025 legislative session. Direct democracy is the process by which Arkansans can propose new laws or constitutional amendments and place them on the ballot for a statewide vote. Arkansas is one of 24 states that allow citizen-led initiatives, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protect AR Rights is challenging some of the new laws in court. A judge last week allowed the group to intervene in a lawsuit filed by the League of Women Voters of Arkansas in April. Protect AR Rights filed its own complaint and motion for a preliminary injunction in the case last week. The League is pursuing its own ballot measure to protect direct democracy in Arkansas. Griffin certified the groups ballot title in May and volunteers having been collecting signatures in support of the measure. Both groups argue the new requirements make it more difficult for Arkansans to propose laws and place them before voters. Supporters of the new laws have said the requirements will help protect the integrity of the states initiative and referendum process. In its complaint, Protect AR Rights challenged laws not included in the original lawsuit, including the reading-level law and a 2023 law that requires signatures to be collected from 50 counties instead of 15. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The latter law is part of a separate lawsuit that also involves the League of Women Voters of Arkansas. A judge will consider a motion for judgment in that case during a hearing on Sept. 3 in Pulaski County Circuit Court. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX PULASKI COUNTY, Ark. As Arkansas State Police enter the third day of their search for a suspect in a brutal double homicide at Devils Den State Park, hikers across the state are continuing their outdoor activities, with a new sense of awareness. On Saturday, a couple was fatally stabbed while hiking with their two school-aged daughters at the popular northwest Arkansas destination. The children are reportedly safe and in the custody of relatives. The incident has sparked concerns among hikers and nature lovers across the state, though many are refusing to let fear stop them from enjoying the outdoors. Manhunt continues for Devils Den double homicide suspect, what to know Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One such visitor is Stanley Perry, who hiked Pinnacle Mountain, located roughly 180 miles from Devils Den, on Monday with his wife and four daughters. Youre going there to soak up nature because youve been stuck in the city life for so long, Perry said. And all of a sudden youre back into, like, emergency mode. While Perry said the news was disheartening, he emphasized the importance of vigilance, especially when hiking with children. If Im with my kids and someones approaching me, Im going to be facing them the whole time, he said. The tragedy at Devils Den is serving as a stark reminder to hikers that dangers on the trail arent limited to wildlife or rough terrain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You might be prepared for a wolf or a coyote to scratch you or bite you, but youre not expecting somebody to pop out of the woods and attack you, Perry added. Despite the chilling nature of the crime, many families, including Perrys, say they wont let fear control their lives. Bad things happen all the time, he said. We cant let the industrial revolution and the internet give you so much information so fast that it deters you from your actual life. 911 call shows police discover Devils Den double homicide Arkansas State Police are still searching for the suspect, described as a white male of medium build. He was last seen wearing a long-sleeve shirt with the sleeves rolled up, dark pants, a ball cap, and sunglasses. Investigators say all available resources are being used to locate the man responsible and bring him to justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the bodies of the victims have been transported to the Arkansas State Crime Lab to determine the exact cause of death. Stay alert, stay safe and if youre going to be hiking, hike. Have a good time, Perry said. As the investigation continues, many Arkansans remain cautious but undeterred, choosing not to let fear rob them of their connection to nature. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) Following the passing of Act 123 earlier this year, public schools across Arkansas will provide students with free breakfast every school day this year, regardless of their eligibility for free and reduced meal programs. Act 123 was signed into law by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders in February after passing with bipartisan support in the House and Senate. That is big because students that are not on free/reduced, or theyre paying students, that sometimes would just come to school and just eat lunch will now be able to eat as well. So we have every child being able to eat a meal free, said Amy Jefferson, Child Nutrition Director at Fayetteville Public Schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Siloam Springs School District, lawmaker react to free breakfast bill in legislation According to the Act, the program will be funded using money from the sales tax and special privilege tax on medical marijuana. ACT123_00b132Download We all know if youre hungry, you cant learn, said Jefferson, If youre hungry, youre sitting in there thinking about, oh, Im hungry. Not thinking about whats being taught to you or what youre doing at the time. So, to have free breakfast available to you now, kids can come in and they can eat breakfast and then go to class, and they can focus on whats going on in the classroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement School districts are also encouraging families in need to sign up for the free and reduced lunch program. If your district has this program, you can find out how to apply on their website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. The Arkansas Sheriffs Association is making a lobbying effort in support of a new prison for the state. The association has created a resolution for county quorum courts to review and pass, affirming the need for state prison space. The resolution includes statistics on inmate population growth and the strain this is placing on county detention centers. Arkansas Sheriffs Association head explains support for proposed prison Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The association has also written a letter containing the same statistics that is being sent to members of the legislature, the governor and each Board of Corrections member. According to the letter, signed by association director Scott Bradley and president Sheriff John Staley, Arkansas has not opened a prison since the Ouachita River Unit in 2003. Since opening that prison, the state population has grown from 2.7 million to 3.08 million. While projections by the nationally recognized JFA Institute have projected Arkansas prison population growth, calling for thousands of additional state prison beds to accommodate the growing population of violent felons, the state has not expanded its capacity, per the letter. Because of this, over the past 10 years, county jails in the state have housed an average of 1,687 inmates each day. Controversy stirring over new state prison coming to Franklin County Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The same projections show Arkansas with an inmate population of 23,697 by 2032, up from the 18,756 inmates through April of this year. By 2032, projections show the state needing an additional 5,000 prison beds. Statistics continue to show how this is impacting the county jails ability to house misdemeanor inmates, since felons are taking up so much of the space The chronic overcrowding of the state prison system has led to the demise of misdemeanor justice and accountability through the inability of many county jails to hold misdemeanants, creating a deterioration of public safety, accountability, and respect for the rule of law and the criminal justice system, the associations letter states. Bill to allocate $750 million for new Arkansas prison likely not returning to Senate after multiple failures Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bradley had previously referred to the current need for prison beds as leading to a failure of the misdemeanor justice system in Arkansas. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. WEST FORK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) Arkansas State Police has released a sketch drawing of a suspected killer from a double homicide case at Devils Den State Park on Saturday. Police sketch of double homicide suspect at Devils Den (Courtesy: Arkansas State Police) ASP believes the man accused of killing Clinton and Cristen Brink on July 26 is a white man with a medium build. Authorities believe he was wearing a long-sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up, as well as black pants, a dark ballcap and sunglasses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ASP says it believes the man was wearing a black backpack and was wearing fingerless gloves when he escaped from Devils Den. FBI joins Arkansas State Police in search for Devils Den double homicide suspect Police say he was seen driving toward a park exit in a black, four-door sedan, believed to be a Mazda, with the license plate covered by electrical or duct tape. He could have been seen leaving the park either on State Highway 170 or State Highway 220. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts should contact ASP Troop L at (479) 751-6663 or call 911. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. Flock Safety, an eight-year-old company based in Atlanta, promotes its license plate readers (LPRs) as tools that can "stop crime in its tracks with evidence that drives action." Charlie and Angie Wolf had a less benign take on the Flock Safety Falcon LPR camera that was installed directly across the street from their home on Lone Pine Road South in Cleburne County, Arkansas, on May 13. The retired couple viewed the camera, which regularly took photos of their driveway and front yard, as an invasion of privacy, since it was recording their movements and those of anyone who happened to visit them. The Wolfs are hardly alone in expressing concern about the privacy implications of LPR cameras. But local officials in Greers Ferry, the tiny town that had contracted with Flock Safety to install the camera on Lone Pine Road South and four others, were unfazed by the couple's objections. They repeatedly rejected the Wolfs' request that the city move the LPR camera. Those officials had a change of heart after the Institute for Justice detailed the Fourth Amendment issues raised by the camera in a July 17 letter to the Greers Ferry City Council. "After months of warrantless surveillance, we're relieved the camera has finally been moved from in front of our home," Charlie Wolf says. "But nobody else should have to experience this either, and it's time for cities across the country to reassess whether partnering with Flock is really worth sacrificing our Fourth Amendment rights." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The day after the camera appeared, Wolf asked the town's police chief, Kallen Lacy, if it could be repositioned in light of its intrusiveness. The answer: "It's not moving." In June, the Wolfs sent the city council a letter officially requesting that the camera be moved, arguing that it violated the Fourth Amendment's ban on unreasonable searches. "We are writing because the city of Greers Ferry has placed a surveillance Flock A.I. camera on county property directly acrossfrom our residential home that photographs our yard, curtilage, and vehicles each time a car passes by and each time we leave or return home," the Wolfs said in the letter, which Charlie Wolf read aloud at a city council meeting on July 8. "The Flock cameraand by extension, the city of Greers Ferryis logging and tracking our movements and conduct in a manner that violates our constitutional right to be secure in our home and our right against unreasonable searches under the U.S. Constitution's Fourth Amendment." For that reason, the Wolfs said, "we formally request that the city council remove the Flock camera so that it 1) no longer photographs our yard, curtilage, vehicles, or children and 2) no longer logs our movements to and from our home." The camera "has continuously captured images of law-abiding citizens, friends, visitors, and our vehicles," they noted. "This is done without reasonable suspicion, probable cause, a search warrant, [or] the benefit of impartial judicial review." Charlie Wolf reiterated the couple's objections at the city council meeting. "Every time [I], my family, friends, children, and grandchildren come to [the house], leave, play in the front yard, or drive into our private property, or even go to the mailbox," he complained, "we're being photographed and entered into a database without consent or violation of any law." According to the Institute for Justice, "it got to the point where the Wolfs' grandchildren stopped visiting." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city council meeting included a video appearance by a Flock flack who defended her company's products and tried to allay Wolf's concerns. Lacy, the police chief, also spoke, saying he had discussed the issue at length with Wolf. While acknowledging Wolf's "distress," Lacy rejected the notion that the camera's placement raised any constitutional issues. "It's a crime prevention measure for our city," the police chief said. "There are over 5,000 cities in the country that use [LPR cameras] in 46 states, so there is no constitutional violation there." City Attorney Blake Spears was similarly unimpressed. "If you want the camera moved," Spears told Wolf, "my suggestion would be to get a court order." Lacy confirmed that "we have no plans to move the camera." The city changed its plans after it received a letter from Institute for Justice Senior Attorney Joshua Windham, who explained why Wolf's objections deserved more respect than they had received. In the 2018 case Carpenter v. United States, Windham noted, the Supreme Court "held that the government violated a reasonable privacy expectation when it accessed seven days of a party's historical cell site location data." That decision reinforced the point that "a person does not surrender all Fourth Amendment protection by venturing into the public sphere." The ruling in Carpenter was based on the principle that the Fourth Amendment "must preserve at least as much privacy as Americans would have enjoyed when it was adopted," Windham wrote. "At that time, police lacked the means to create a historical record of people's physical movementsthey simply did not have the manpower or the technology to do so." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Applying that principle, "courts are increasingly recognizing that the placement of a surveillance camera in front of a home may violate a reasonable privacy expectation," Windham said. In 2022, for example, a federal judge in Iowa (which is part of the same circuit that includes Arkansas) concluded that "the use of continuous video surveillance [of a home] without a warrant appears to be on tenuous constitutional grounds." The supreme courts of Colorado and South Dakota went further, holding that "pointing a video camera at a home for multiple months without a warrant violates the Fourth Amendment," Windham noted. "Both courts stressed that long-term camera surveillance can reveal residents' and guests' aggregated 'comings and goings,' and held that people reasonably expect those kinds of routinesroutines like when they are typically home and when they are notwill be kept private from prying eyes." Windham also mentioned his organization's Fourth Amendment challenge to the deployment of Flock cameras in Norfolk, Virginia. In February, a federal judge rejected the city's motion to dismiss that lawsuit, Schmidt v. Norfolk. "The complaint alleges facts notably similar to those in Carpenter that the Supreme Court found to clearly violate society's expectation of privacy: law enforcement secretly monitoring and cataloguing the whole of tens of thousands of individual[s'] movements over an extended period," wrote Mark Davis, chief judge of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. "In short, the Court finds that considering existing precedent, the well-pled facts plausibly allege a violation of an objectively reasonable expectation of privacy." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city's monitoring of the Wolfs' home "resembles the surveillance that was recently struck down by the Colorado and South Dakota Supreme Courts," Windham argued. "Like the cameras in those cases, the Flock camera across the street from the Wolfs' home captures part of their property (specifically, a driveway entrance and part of their front yard). Like the cameras in those cases, the Flock camera here records the Wolfs' 'comings and goings' every time they enter or leave their property (specifically, by using a Flock LPR designed to capture every car that drives by). And, worse than the cameras in those cases, the Flock camera here will surveil the Wolfs indefinitely." Windham also raised a broader objection. "The Flock cameras installed around Greers Ferry resemble the network of cameras that the Schmidt court held may violate the Fourth Amendment," he wrote. "Although Greers Ferry currently uses fewer Flock cameras than Norfolk (172 versus five), Greers Ferry is a far smaller city (53 square land miles versus 7). Further, a review of Google Maps suggests that Greers Ferry has far fewer public roads that people can use to get from place to place, which suggests that Greers Ferry would not need nearly as many Flock cameras per square land mile to achieve the historical location tracking that the Schmidt court held may violate the Fourth Amendment in Norfolk." The morning after Windham sent that letter, the city of Greers Ferry posted a defense of LPR cameras on its Facebook page that read like a Flock press release. "Flock Safety cameras are revolutionizing crime prevention and resolution by capturing vital license plate and vehicle details," it said. "Their impact is evident across Arkansas and beyond, aiding law enforcement in saving lives and safeguarding property." To back up that argument, the city cited "Success Stories in Arkansas," including the recovery of stolen vehicles and the arrests of homicide, assault, and robbery suspectsall "thanks to Flock cameras." Those cameras, the city said, do not "access personal info from plates" or "record sound or video." But they do "capture vehicle license plates," "generate leads and solve cases," "alert officers about suspect vehicles," "reduce crime rates," and help "recover stolen goods." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The purported effectiveness of these cameras, of course, has nothing to do with the constitutional question of whether their use complies with the Fourth Amendment. As Windham pointed out, the answer is not as clear as Lacy seems to think. "We're thrilled that the Wolfs will no longer be subjected to constant warrantless surveillance of their property," Windham says. "That said, there are still massive Fourth Amendment concerns with the use of these license plate reader cameras, and we urge the city not to renew its contract with Flock Safety when the initial term is up." The post An Arkansas Town Agrees To Remove a License Plate Camera Aimed at a Couple's Home appeared first on Reason.com. The Brief A congressional redistricting hearing in Arlington, Texas, concluded with strong opposition to redrawing district maps. The Department of Justice, under President Trump, has called for four Texas districts, represented by Black or Latino Democrats, to be redrawn due to "unconstitutional racial gerrymandering." Critics argue the proposed changes are politically motivated and aim to disenfranchise minority voters, while supporters claim the redistricting is necessary. ARLINGTON, Texas - The third and final congressional redistricting hearing is still happening at UT Arlington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It comes after President Trump is pushing lawmakers to redraw district maps. Arlington redistricting hearing What we know In the final stop of this redistricting listening tour, many North Texans expressed firm opposition to redrawing the congressional map. Hundreds filled an auditorium on Monday in Arlington for a house congressional redistricting hearing. The Department of Justice, under President Trump, sent Texas leaders a letter on July 7 saying four Texas districts should be redrawn, calling them "unconstitutional racial gerrymandering". All four seats mentioned in the DOJ letter are represented by black or latino Democrats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans have a razor-thin margin in Congress and if they lose the house, it will be very difficult for President Trump to move his agenda forward. The president has said he wants to add five republican seats to Texas. Many from around North Texas came to speak out against the special agenda item, but they were not able to comment on the new maps since, despite the listening tour, they havent been crafted yet. Comments at hearing What they're saying "We shouldnt even be having this hearing," said Casey Thomas, former Dallas city councilman. One of the districts mentioned in the DOJ letter is North Texas 33rd Congressional District, held by Marc Veasey. "Donald Trump is demanding loyalty maps. These maps would strip away the voices from black and brown Texans," said Veasey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many other North Texas locals voiced their concerns against the new redistricting. "Thats not democracy. Thats disenfranchisement. The current maps already hurt black and brown communities," said Elsie Cooke-Holmes. "With this particular dictate coming down from Washington DC, our voices will not be heard," said Freddy Haynes. The other side While the room leaned heavily against redistricting. At least two people supported the move. "As a black American, Afghanistan veteran, a retired department aid of the U.S. Department of Justice, I strongly support the Republican redistricting," said Chaplain Rich Stoglin of the Frederick Douglas Republicans of Tarrant County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state last redrew the maps in 2021. A routine redrawing after new census data. During, and since, that effort, state republican leaders defended the maps as "race blind". State senator Royce West called out Republicans for changing their tune. "Testified in federal court, under oath, that it was race-blind," he said. What's next The senate has virtual hearings scheduled this week. The Source Information in this article was provided by the Texas Congressional Redistricting Hearing in Arlington on July 28. A former Marine who helped confront the suspect in a stabbing rampage at a Walmart in Michigan is speaking out in an exclusive broadcast interview after the terrifying incident that authorities said was an act of terrorism. Nearly a dozen people were randomly injured in the attack on Saturday before a group of citizens -- including Derrick Perry, who was armed with a gun -- helped prevent the suspect from leaving or harming others, authorities said. "I didn't think of anything other than trying to get him away from people and get him isolated and get him to put the knife down and just to kind of focus on me instead of everyone that was yelling and screaming in the background," Perry, a married father of three, told "Good Morning America" on Monday. ABC News - PHOTO: Derrick Perry speaks with ABC News on Good Morning America. The suspect allegedly entered the Walmart store in Traverse City, about 150 miles north of Grand Rapids, Saturday afternoon and began attacking people with a folding knife, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It appears that these were all random acts," Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea said at a news conference on Sunday afternoon, adding that the attacks began near the checkout area. The victims range in age from 29 to 84 and include a Walmart employee, Shea said. MORE: Authorities were searching for Walmart stabbing suspect prior to incident A group of citizens, including a firearm-wielding Perry, confronted the suspect in the parking lot in a dramatic scene that was captured on video by a bystander. A deputy then took the suspect -- 42-year-old Bradford James Gille -- into custody, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I commend them," Shea said of the citizens who helped. "It's not very often that we have citizens that are willing to step up and take action." Gille was formally charged Monday with one count of terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder. He did not enter a plea during his arraignment, and a judge overseeing the hearing said an attorney will be appointed to represent him. @highon16widez / TikTok - PHOTO: A bystander video shows suspect Bradford James Gille, 42, (to the left wearing a black cap) is confronted, July 26, 2025, by a group of citizens outside a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan. MORE: Good Samaritan speaks out after stopping couple from 'dumping' kittens in dirt field Magistrate Tammi Rodgers set Gille's bail at $100,000 cash and ordered him to return to court for a probable cause hearing on Aug. 6 and a preliminary hearing on Aug. 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The magistrate granted the prosecutor's request for high bail for Gille, alleging that he had committed "one of the most serious crimes that one could commit in the state of Michigan." Prosecutors said each charge against Gille carries a possible life sentence if he is convicted. Bitcoin (BTC) mining profitability increased 5.3% in June, buoyed by a 1.2% increase in the cryptocurrency's price and a 6.7% drop in the network hashrate, according to a report by investment bank Jefferies. The hashrate refers to the total combined computational power used to mine and process transactions on a proof-of-work blockchain, and is a proxy for competition in the industry and mining difficulty. It is measured in exahashes per second (EH/s). The profitability boost came as extreme summer heat across the U.S. drove up energy prices, prompting less efficient miners to throttle operations. So far in July, bitcoin has surged past $123,000, to set a new all-time high driven by increasingly favorable crypto regulation and a weakening U.S. dollar following tariff-related comments from President Donald Trump. The macro and regulatory backdrop has intensified investor interest and provided a fresh tailwind for mining firms, the report said. Despite the improved profitability, North American public miners saw a month-over-month decline in bitcoin production, analysts Jonathan Petersen and Jan Aygul wrote. In June, they mined a total of 3,382 BTC, down from 3,754 in May. They accounted for 25.1% of the global network, versus 26.3% the prior month, the report noted. MARA (MARA) led in output with 713 BTC mined, followed by CleanSpark with 685 tokens. MARA also maintained its lead in energized hashrate, posting 57.4 EH/s at the end of June, down slightly from Mays 58.3 EH/s. CLSK held the second-highest hashrate at 45.3 EH/s, the bank said. Bitcoin mining economics improved last month. A hypothetical 1 EH/s mining fleet would have generated approximately $57,000 in daily revenue during June, up from $54,000 in May, the report added. Read more: Bitcoin Network Hashrate Declined in June as Miners Reacted to Recent Heatwave: JPMorgan The Army, Navy and Marine Corps are not planning to pause use of the M18 pistol as a primary, daily service sidearm for their troops, the services told Task & Purpose, even as units in the Air Force pull the weapon from service after an airman was killed when an M18 discharged last week. The M18 pistol is produced by Sig Sauer as a military version of the companys P320, a model that has drawn lawsuits and attention in recent years after incidents where users alleged that the gun fired on its own. In military usage, a law enforcement training agency in Washington recently chronicled at least six possible unintentional discharges on or associated with military bases involving the M18 or M17, a slightly larger version of the handgun. Concerns about the handgun were heightened last week when Airman Brayden Lovan, 21, was killed when his M18 discharged at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming, according to Air Force officials. The circumstances around how the weapon fired are under investigation. Lovan was a security forces airman assigned to the 90th Security Forces Squadron, a role that required him to regularly carry a sidearm. Advertisement Advertisement In the wake of Lovans death, officials with Air Force Global Strike Command, which oversees most units at F.E. Warren, temporarily paused use of the M18 across the command, pending an investigation for immediate safety concerns. Since that announcement, several units under Air Combat Command, the services largest major component, have also stopped using the M18, though not the entire command. The Air Combat Command pause was first reported by The War Zone. A Guam National Guard soldier fires his M17. The Army says it has no plans to stop using the pistol after the recent death of an Air Force member. Army photo by Mark Scott. Charles Hoffman, spokesperson for the Air Force Global Strike Commands safety office, told Task & Purpose that during the pause, Air Force security forces will carry the M4 rifle. Global Strike Command has just over 27,000 active duty airmen less than 9% of the entire active duty Air Force but duty weapons are relatively common in its units. The command oversees all of the services nuclear weapons and the missiles and bombers tasked with delivering them. As such, armed personnel are a constant presence on Global Strike Command installations, and the command is infamous for its intense focus on security and safety issues. Sig has offered and will continue to offer any and all assistance necessary to the USAFs investigation of the F.E. Warren incident, Phil Strader, vice president of consumer affairs for Sig Sauer, told Task & Purpose in a statement. Design used in all military branches The M17, a full-size variant of the pistol, and the M18, a compact version, have been the militarys standard pistols issued to active and reserve troops for most of this decade, replacing the legacy M9 used since the 1980s. The two guns share firing components and vary mainly by the length of the barrel. Advertisement Advertisement The Air Force announced in 2020 that all of its combat arms units would receive the M18, citing a more consistent trigger pull and adjustable grips for different hand sizes. The Air Force owns close to 75% of the militarys inventory of roughly 165,000 M18 pistols, according to data provided by the Army, Marine Corps, Air Force and procurement documents from the Navy. Exact numbers of M17s currently in use were not immediately available. The Army and Marine Corps indicated in testing and evaluation documents that they intended to buy several hundred thousand of the handguns. A January 2017 contract announcement included a $580 million contract with Sig Sauer to replace the Armys M9 by 2027. Officials from the Army, Navy and Marine Corps told Task & Purpose that those services have no plans to pause use of the weapons. We have not seen any evidence that indicates design or manufacturing issues are present, Meghan Stoltzfus, a Marine Corps spokesperson, said in a statement to Task & Purpose. She added that the M18 was rigorously tested to Department of Defense standards and subject to extensive lot acceptance testing with oversight by the Defense Contract Management Agency, Army and Marine Corps. Discharge issue discovered during Army testing The Department of Defense discovered unexpected discharge issues with the Sig Sauer handgun when the Army began operational testing for the M18 almost a decade ago. The service found that during drop testing with an empty primed cartridge inserted, the guns striker struck the rounds primer and caused a discharge. Army officials directed the company to correct the problem by implementing lightweight components in the trigger mechanism, according to a fiscal year 2017 operational test and evaluation report. Advertisement Advertisement Follow-on testing validated that the change corrected the deficiency and the pistol no longer fired when dropped, the report stated, adding that the new version with the changes was submitted for production. Sig Sauer conceded the early issues with the Army pistol, noting that testing above and beyond national, state, global military and law enforcement standards found that after multiple drops, at certain angles and conditions, a potential discharge of the firearm may result when dropped. Strader said the M17 and M18 pistols are required to be equipped with a manual thumb safety, which is an option for commercial P320s. With that said, regarding the lawsuits around this platform, no one, including our engineers and the plaintiffs experts, have been able to replicate or prove a P320 can be fired by any method besides a trigger pull, Strader said. Lawsuits and law enforcement inquiries The civilian version of the M18, the P320, has seen issues pop up in recent years, some of which have led to multi-million dollar lawsuits and decisions by local police departments to stop using the pistol. In November 2024, a Philadelphia jury awarded an Army veteran $11 million after his holstered Sig Sauer pistol went off while he was going down the stairs and caused a serious leg injury. Advertisement Advertisement In June, Sig Sauer filed a lawsuit in Washington asking a state judge to reverse the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commissions decision to ban police recruits from carrying the P320. The commissions working group of local law enforcement, training staff, and firearms instructors released a report in February on their decision to temporarily ban its use by police recruits. Top Stories This Week Culture Top Air Force enlisted leader apologizes for uniform slip-up Top Air Force enlisted leader apologizes for uniform slip-up By Jeff Schogol Culture An Army pilot and mechanic switched units for a week. Heres how that went. An Army pilot and mechanic switched units for a week. Heres how that went. By Patty Nieberg News Air Force Global Strike Command suspends use of M18 pistol after airmans death Air Force Global Strike Command suspends use of M18 pistol after airmans death By Jeff Schogol In their report, the Washington commission cited six incidents since 2021 with uncommanded discharges involving the M17 and M18. The M18 incidents were: In 2023, a Japanese security guard at Camp Foster, Okinawa, rested their right hand lightly on the rotating cover of a weapon holster when their M18 discharged. Also in 2023, at Camp Pendleton, California, an officer in the armory stopped at a clearing barrel to empty their M18. The officer pulled the pistol out of the holster while it was on safe and removed the magazine. A round discharged from the M18 into the clearing barrel. The officer was sure that they never touched the trigger of the M18, and had ample weapons handling training, according to the report. In 2022, a service member was preparing for his shift at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, when his M18 discharged at his home. He was taken to the hospital for a penetrating gunshot wound with the bullet still lodged in his knee, according to the incident report. Advertisement Advertisement With the M17, previous incidents included: A military police soldier at Fort Eustis, Virginia, in 2023 injured his foot after his pistol inadvertently discharged after making contact with another officers gun holster. The gun of an Army civilian attending a law enforcement course in 2020 at Leesville Police Range in Louisiana discharged while he drew the pistol from his holster. A service member attempting to holster his pistol in 2021 fired a round through his foot at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Sig Sauer announced in 2020 it would offer free P320 upgrades that improve its safety, reliability and overall performance. The changes reduced the weight of the guns trigger, sear, and striker and added a mechanical disconnector, according to Sig Sauers website on the program. The company states that minimal reported drop-related P320 incidents have occurred in U.S. commercial and law enforcement markets in situations that appear to be outside of normal testing protocols. An Army ROTC cadet died during training last week in Kentucky, officials said. Neil Edara, 22, of Ridgewood, New Jersey, was killed during land navigation training at Fort Knox last Thursday, the Army said in a statement. He received some medical training at the scene before being flown to University of Louisville Hospital about 40 miles northeast where he was pronounced dead. Edara was attending Cadet Summer Training. Land navigation training involves reading maps and traveling through unfamiliar areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No other information was given about the incident, but the area was under a heat advisory at the time, according to National Weather Service data. The cause of death remains under investigation. Safety of cadets and cadre remains U.S. Army Cadet Commands top priority as training continues, the command said in its statement. The command said he joined ROTC at Rutgers University in New Brunswick in 2021. The biology major was slated to graduate next year. He was also a volunteer EMT in Ridgewood. Cadet Edara was one of the most dedicated and promising young leaders Ive had the privilege to know, Lt. Col. Timothy Sorensen, a Rutgers professor of military science, said in the commands statement. His calm collected demeanor and unwavering commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on everyone around him. NEED TO KNOW Paola Clouatre, 25, has been released after she was detained by ICE agents during a green card appointment in late May She's back home in Louisiana with her young son and daughter and her husband, Adrian Her legal proceedings are ongoing; she was initially brought from Mexico as a child by her mom Paola Clouatre, a 25-year-old mother of two from Mexico and wife of a Marine veteran, was released this week on her own recognizance two months after being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents during a green card appointment, her lawyer and husband tell PEOPLE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since late May, Paola, who was still breastfeeding 4-month-old daughter Lyn when she was arrested, had been held at a facility about three hours from her family, who live in Baton Rouge, La. Now she's back home with husband Adrian, 26, and their two children, including nearly 2-year-old son, Noah. The couple spoke with PEOPLE from Louisiana, as their young kids cooed and laughed in the background, one day after they were reunited when ICE freed Paola from detention. Her case is one of an increasing number around the country drawing attention to federal immigration policies. President Donald Trump successfully campaigned last year on cracking down on illegal immigration, but some of his deportations have stirred major debate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paola, though no longer held in Monroe, La., is required to wear an ankle monitor for the remainder of her legal proceedings. ICE did not respond to a request for comment on her release, but Homeland Security officials have defended their decision to detain Paola as important for law enforcement. Her attorney, Carey Holliday, and husband say she was brought to the U.S. as a teenager by her mom, from whom she is now estranged, and was initially granted protection under the asylum system. Later, however, a removal order was issued against her after she missed a hearing in 2018, something she claims she was unaware of for years. Her long drive home with Adrian on Monday, July 28, gave them plenty of time to plan out the moment she'd reunite with her kids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's heartwarming," says Adrian, a restaurant manager. "She hid in the car and we let the dogs out and the kids out, and she kind of just watched them for a second, then popped up out of nowhere." Adrian says son Noah looked momentarily "shocked" before he went to her, adding that "the dogs lost their minds, of course." He says daughter Lyn "wants to be held by mama all the time right now." "It's something I can't describe, because it's like it's happiness, love," Paola says of holding her children again outside the walls of the detention center. Paola recalled how it felt to watch her husband and kids walk away after each visit, especially when Noah cried. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is very difficult, it's hard, being there without your family and just being locked up, it is like jail," she says, adding, "Leaving him crying, I was feeling bad, [I] just came back to the dorm and started crying." According to Adrian, Paola was 14 when she was brought to the U.S. from Mexico by her mom. But after the teenage Paola and her mother became estranged, according to Paola's attorney, it became hard for her to track her legal status. It was only while applying to be a permanent resident after marrying Adrian in 2024 that Paola learned she was subject to a deportation order, according to her husband. The couple was honest about it during the green card appointment, but it did not have an impact on what happened next, Adrian previously told PEOPLE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They let me hug and kiss her goodbye, we talked for two minutes and then they took her into the ICE facility," Adrian said of her arrest. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. In a statement to PEOPLE last week, Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin cited Paola's removal order from 2018 and said, "President Trump and Secretary [Kristi] Noem are not going to ignore the rule of law." In July, a judge granted a motion to reopen Paola's case and the venue was later changed from California, where the couple met and lived, to Louisiana, where they are raising their family, her attorney says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Executive Office for Immigration Review website currently lists the status of her proceedings as pending. "I struggled to sleep last night," Paola says, "But it feels warm to be back to my bed and cuddle my husband, cuddle my kids." Read the original article on People Kae Burnell-Chambers now faces a potential jail sentence - Champion News A body paint artist who filed a 3 million NHS compensation claim is facing jail after her disability claims were exposed as fraudulent by a video of her dancing at a festival. Kae Burnell-Chambers, 44, claimed that delayed diagnosis by NHS doctors had led to nerve damage which left her struggling to walk, get out of a car or even dress herself. But a video unveiled at the High Court instead showed the artist posing and strutting whilst painted as a fantasy warrior at a festival in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video was filmed months before she launched her multi-million-pound damages bid over a delayed diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome, a condition involving damage to nerves at the end of the spinal cord. She is now facing a potential jail sentence after Judge Jonathan Glasson KC found her guilty of contempt of court as Ms Burnell-Chambers admitted she had misrepresented her symptoms during the claim. Ms Burnell-Chambers admits to misrepresenting her symptoms - Champion News Sadie Crapper, barrister for Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust, told the court that after NHS doctors missed early signs of the condition in 2016, Ms Burnell-Chambers, from Lincs, launched a bid for damages in 2019. She attended medico-legal appointments complaining of a whole array of disabilities, saying she needed help to dress and to get out of the car - and when she went to see a doctor had displayed a laboured gait and used a stick, the barrister said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, she went on to drop her claim in 2022 after social media videos and surveillance footage showed that the picture of her disabilities she had been presenting to support her claim was fundamentally dishonest, said Ms Crapper. The barrister said Ms Burnell-Chambers said she was significantly disabled by the delayed diagnosis and could walk only with a stick and required aids such as a wheelchair, boot hoist and Motability vehicle. A core part of the NHS case was based on a series of social media videos that showed her moving without any sign of pain. One particular video from the Kustom Kulture Blast Off in August 2019 shows her having her body extensively painted and then parading in a show where she walks freely and dances without need for a walking aid, the barrister said. Ms Burnell Chambers in video footage during medico legal visit - Champion News Ms Crapper said that Ms Burnell-Chambers had fraudulently exaggerated her symptoms for the purposes of her clinical negligence claim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court heard Ms Burnell-Chambers admitted that her condition varies and her mobility is almost normal on good days, and that she had been exaggerating when she saw the medical-legal expert doctor. She admitted she had been fundamentally dishonest, but nevertheless has real ongoing disabilities, her barrister Ben Bradley KC told the court. The judge, giving his ruling, said she had signed an admission that she had deceived the examining doctors, and deliberately changed my presentation, and that in doing so had deliberately interfered with the administration of justice. In her admission statement, she said her mobility is near normal on good days, but on bad days, she considers herself to be disabled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know it was wrong to misrepresent my presentation whilst making a civil claim. I accept that I deserve to be punished as a result, she added. At the end of a half-day hearing, the judge concluded: I find the defendant guilty of contempt of court on the basis of her admissions. Ms Burnell-Chambers will now return to court to be sentenced in October. The maximum term for contempt of court is two years imprisonment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A Massachusetts assisted-living facility where a fire killed 10 people earlier this month temporarily lost its certification nearly a decade ago due to resident mistreatment, according to state regulators. The documents obtained by The Associated Press show the staff failed to treat residents with consideration, respect, personal dignity and privacy." Other specific details of what prompted the monthlong suspension were redacted in documents the state Executive Office of Aging & Independence provided Tuesday. The facility in Fall River was barred from accepting new residents until it took corrective action. The report adds to a list of issues raised with the Gabriel House facility over the years. A resident filed a lawsuit recently alleging the facility was not properly managed, staffed or maintained and that emergency response procedures were not put in place. The son of another resident said an elevator had been out for as long as nine months at one point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The states deadliest blaze in more than four decades has highlighted the lack of regulations governing assisted-living facilities that often care for low-income or disabled residents. Gov. Maura Healey declined last week to weigh in on the efficacy of state and local inspections. Instead, Healey has touted that a state commission is currently working on recommendations to improve assisted-living facilities. State records released Tuesday include about two dozen complaints about the facility during the last decade, including several related to abuse, neglect or financial exploitation" but details are redacted. Other complaints involved a resident getting stuck for hours in an elevator that was then out of service for months, and staff members who threatened residents and withheld medication. There also were complaints about a nurse withholding medication, environmental safety and a cook: The cook is obsessive, controlling and abusive. The most detailed complaint is from 2015 and appears to have been written or dictated by a resident. It lists more than a dozen issues, including bed bugs, roaches over-medicated residents and fist fights in common areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is a place where you cant feel safe due to other patients and corrupt staff, the complaint states. The staff treat the people there very cruel and show no respect for them or their needs. Dennis Etzkorn, the owner of Gabriel House, has said he will not speak to journalists and is focused on helping families of the victims and cooperating with the investigation into the fire. Most recently, documents show that state officials were alarmed about the ongoing elevator issues as of spring 2025. A field supervisor with Massachusettss long-term care ombudsman made a plea in February to the state to investigate Gabriel Houses faulty elevator, saying that every time he made a call about the problem he was met with excuses. Please call this place and see if this is true if so we need a remedy /plan asap, an unnamed official wrote to the offices assisted living certification specialist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Etzkorn later wrote to the office detailing the timeline of the elevator problems that said work would begin in March after it was first alerted in September 2024. Before the July 13 fire, the most recent compliance review found numerous repeat violations, many related to record keeping. After the facility submitted a corrective plan, the state renewed its certification in December 2023. Investigators said last week that the fire started unintentionally by either someone smoking or an electrical issue with an oxygen machine. The blaze left some residents of the three-story building hanging out of windows and screaming for help. ____ Associated Press Writer Kimberlee Kruesi in Providence, Rhode Island, contributed to this report. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) An assisted living resident has been arrested on suspicion of burglary, and he is accused of being a habitual thief and entering other residents apartments to steal cigarettes. Craig Bowcut, 67, is facing potential charges of burglary of a dwelling, a second degree felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the affidavit, on July 27, Bowcut was caught entering another residents apartments and stealing cigarettes. Other residents who have allegedly been victimized told police that they no longer feel safe in their community. The victim called Salt Lake City Police after she allegedly witnessed Bowcut enter her apartment and begin to feel around the area where she keeps her wallet. She said she asked him what he was doing, but he did not respond and continued to feel around for her wallet. Three charged after 9-month-old overdoses on fentanyl, documents say Bowcut had been caught previously with the victims wallet in his possession after taking it from her apartment, and he has also been found in possession of Marlborough Reds. The victim is the only resident in the assisted living facility who smokes Marlborough Reds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police allegedly found a pack of Marlborough Reds on his person on July 27. Another resident reportedly saw Bowcut leaving the victims apartment that day, and the affidavit states that multiple other residents had issues with Bowcut entering their apartments without permission. According to the arresting officer, the facility confirmed that Bowcut does not have any diagnosed cognitive health conditions. Staff at the facility also reportedly stated that the situation has gotten to a point where they cannot adequately protect the residents from Bowcut. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. A man wanted for armed robbery in Atlanta was arrested trying to get back into the United States on Monday. U.S. Customs and Border Protection says they arrested Djamilou Sebabe, 27, at the Peace Bridge border crossing between Buffalo, N.Y. and Fort Erie, Canada. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Sebabe is a U.S. citizen from Georgia and was trying to cross the border in a car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While checking the National Crime Information Center, border patrol officers found an active warrant from the Atlanta Police Department charging Sebabe with armed robbery, aggravated assault and more. TRENDING STORIES: Channel 2 Action News is working to learn more about the crimes for which Sebabe was wanted. He was turned over to the Buffalo Police Department and is currently being held in the Erie County Holding Center where he awaits extradition. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Atlanta mayor and police chief say despite weekend violence, shootings are down this year Atlanta faced a violent weekend with 12 incidents of gun violence, leaving 29 injured and two dead. Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum and Mayor Andre Dickens addressed the citys recent spike in gun violence during a news conference on Monday morning, Channel 2s Tyisha Fernandes reported. Despite the weekends violence, Dickens highlighted a nearly 20% reduction in shootings compared to last year, attributing this progress to strategic investments in policing and prevention. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Almost 20% reduction in shootings, that progress is the result of intentional and strategic investments, not just in policing, but also in prevention and in care, Dickens said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schierbaum emphasized the ongoing investigations, particularly focusing on three shootings that occurred on Edgewood Avenue late Sunday night. He urged those with information to come forward to aid in the investigation. In southeast Atlanta, police are investigating the fatal shooting of an 18-year-old at a cookout, while another incident on Lynhurst Drive in Southwest Atlanta left innocent bystanders injured. Activist Torrey Tomlinson, who has been mentoring young people in metro Atlanta for more than 20 years, stressed the importance of guiding troubled teens to programs that can help them. You have One More Question. You have Next Level Boys Academy. You have Best Strong Inc. You have my company, Blessed One Community. ... Programs are being shut down. They just dont have opportunity right now where they can get these job skills that they need to help keep our kids out of the streets and out of the prisons, Tomlinson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That anger, that conflict resolution and access to guns by individuals that should not have them should not have that moment. Its still a matter that we all need to address as citizens of our city, Schierbaum said. RELATED STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Business hasnt been the same for MoreLyfe Juice Co. owner Trinket Lewis ever since construction crews began a series of road improvements outside her store in Cascade Heights nearly two years ago. The single mom and entrepreneur estimates her juice bars sales have decreased by as much as 72% since the Atlanta Department of Transportation temporarily closed parts of the 2-mile stretch of Cascade Road that runs east and west through her commercial district to finish phase one of the corridors Complete Street project. Construction for the nearly $19 million initiative was supposed to start in November 2021, according to the citys website, but business owners say the project has been delayed multiple times, adding to the timeline and their frustrations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its designed to revitalize the area with transportation infrastructure upgrades, including fresh pavement, sidewalks, bike lanes, and bus stop enhancements to make it safer and more pedestrian friendly. But Lewis and other local small-business owners say the near-constant closure of Cascade Road has diverted traffic and customers away from their stores intermittently for one to two years. A detour and road closure sign are pictured on Cascade Road in southwest Atlanta on Tuesday. Neighborhood business owners say the road closure has lasted more than a year and has hurt their sales and foot traffic. (Chauncey Alcorn/Capital B) Four of her six part-time staffers have quit since she was forced to cut their hours due to lost revenue. The nearby home, where she lives with her 10-year-old son, has gone in and out of foreclosure for about a year. It is a month-to-month survival, Lewis told Capital B Atlanta on Monday. I put most of my savings into this [business]. To see that slowly diminish away, not because Im doing anything wrong, but because of decisions that the city is making, is heartbreaking. Lewis is one of more than 50 Black business owners in southwest Atlanta who participated in a Tuesday afternoon press conference organized by local community activists demanding compensation from city officials for yearslong sales declines that they say were caused by the Cascade Road Complete Street shutdown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rodney Mullins, founder of We Design Atlanta, a nonprofit working on economic and community development with southwest Atlanta entrepreneurs, said hes helping the local business community create a recovery plan to save their stores. Part of that plan involves finding out exactly when the city expects to finish its Cascade Road Complete Street improvements. They have not been informed of the timeline of the project, they have not been given clear direction on how they can be more agile in this situation, Mullins told Capital B Atlanta on Monday. During the press conference, several business owners said city officials have offered them loans to help them stay afloat while the road improvements are made. Mullins said the city should be giving the community grants instead of loans. He noted that Atlanta City Council set aside millions to create a grant program for businesses impacted by the citys major water main break last year. That infrastructure failure only lasted about four days. The road improvements impacting businesses along Cascade Road have been going on an estimated two years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Can you imagine the city shutting down Peachtree [Street] for two years? Mullins said. Downtown, Buckhead and Midtown were given a $7.4 million fund [for the 2024 water main break]. My estimates are that this community will need twice that, because the duration of the infrastructure project was monumentally longer than what it was in Buckhead and midtown. Former Atlanta Mayor Andrew Young, a Cascade Heights resident, also attended Tuesdays press conference where he called on city leaders to do more to help save local businesses impacted by the Cascade Road construction and offered to call current Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens himself. I am afraid that we have not done what we need to do for our community, Young told those in attendance. I dont know whos fault it is, but let me know what you need me to do. He accused city leaders of doing more to help rescue business owners in neighborhoods like Buckhead and Midtown that were impacted by water main breaks this year than they have for Black business owners on the citys southwest side. Former Cascade Heights business owner Lance Robertson stands outside his former CBD City store, which he said he was forced to close last year due to declining foot traffic caused by nearby construction on Cascade Road. (Courtesy of Lance Robertson) In an emailed statement to Capital B Atlanta, Mayor Dickens office said Tuesday afternoon that he has assigned City of Atlanta Chief Operating Officer LaChandra Butler-Burks and Invest Atlanta CEO Eloisa Klementich to organize another meeting with the Cascade Heights business leaders to review the timeline for the road closure and propose a plan to provide support to help affected businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The citys aid wont come fast enough to help Lance Robertson save his business. The former East Point city councilman said he closed his Cascade Heights health and wellness store, CBD City, toward the end of 2024 after his sales took a nosedive due in part to Cascade Road construction closures. He now serves as director of government relations for Natson Hotel Group, but said he invested nearly $150,000 in CBD City before declining sales forced him to permanently shutter his store. As a result, Robertson said he struggled with depression. There should be some type of financial relief for the existing businesses that are there, Robertson told Capital B Atlanta. I do believe that sometimes some areas of town get more attention than others. Thats just proven. Thats life. The post Atlanta Roadwork Hits Black-Owned Businesses Hard in Southwest Neighborhood appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta. The Brief Police report 14 shootings in Atlanta city limits between Thursday, July 24 and Monday, July 28 More than 30 people were injured, and two people were killed. A few arrests have been made, according to police. ATLANTA - Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Police Chief Darin Schierbaum held a news conference Monday morning following a violent weekend in the city that left more than 30 people injured and two dead, including one person killed, and 10 others wounded in a mass shooting early Monday morning on Edgewood Avenue in the historical Sweet Auburn neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX 5's Joyce Lupiani dug through the police department's website and found 14 shootings in Atlanta city limits between Thursday, July 24 and Monday, July 28. Some arrests have been made in a few of the shootings. You can read about the violent weekend below. Violent weekend across Atlanta What we know 3 a.m., July 28 Chappell Street SW Two teens (ages 16 and 17) shot during a short-term rental house party in the 200 block of Chappell St. SW. No arrests. More info RELATED STORY: 2 injured in shooting at possible short-term rental party in NW Atlanta 1:27 a.m., July 28 Edgewood Avenue SE (Mass Shooting) 11 shot (8 males, 3 females), including one fatality. Victims were gathered near the streetcar stop in the 300 block. Police are looking for three men and one woman. More info Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement July 28 Edgewood Avenue SE (Separate Incident) Man shot multiple times in 300 block of Edgewood Ave. SE. Shooter fled in a black Jeep Renegade with Missouri tags. No arrests. More info 12:01 a.m., July 28 Edgewood Avenue NE Man shot in the foot in the 400 block. He was privately transported to the hospital. No arrests reported. More info 2:11 p.m., July 27 Austin Court SW A 16-year-old girl shot in the abdomen and buttocks in the 3700 block. She was alert when taken to the hospital. Police said they arrested a 16-year-old boy for the shooting. More info RELATED: Teen girl shot multiple times in southwest Atlanta Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2:09 p.m., July 27 Hollywood Road NW 15-year-old boy shot in the right arm in the 800 block. Victim was alert. No arrests. More info 2:15 p.m., July 27 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd NW & Lena Street NW Another 15-year-old boy shot in the left arm nearby. Alert when transported. No arrests. More info RELATED STORY: Two teens injured in northwest Atlanta shooting 1:34 p.m., July 26 Piedmont Ave. SE Man shot in the leg following an argument in the 100 block of Piedmont Ave. SE. The suspect fled the scene. No arrests reported. More info 11:37 a.m., July 26 Middleton Road SW Three femalesages 21, 19, and 45shot during argument with a neighbor. Three people face charges in the shooting. More info Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED STORY: Feud between neighbors allegedly leads to shooting in northwest Atlanta 3 a.m., July 26 Edgewood Avenue SE Three people shot: one man in abdomen and thigh, another in leg, and a woman multiple times. All transported. More info RELATED STORY: Three people shot in southeast Atlanta 8:31 p.m., July 25 McDaniel Street SW Man shot in the chest in the 500 block. Alert when taken to the hospital. Police said this was a domestic incident, and the man who was shot was arrested. He's been identified as 36-year-old Maurice Walker. More info 5:52 p.m., July 25 Lakewood Avenue Man shot and killed in the 2800 block. No other details released. 24-year-old Corey Page was arrested, according to police. More info Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED STORY: Deadly shooting at Lakewood Avenue shopping center under investigation 7:44 a.m., July 25 Broad Street NW 24-year-old man shot multiple times in the 60 block. Alert when transported. No arrests. More info RELATED STORY: Man found shot multiple times in downtown Atlanta, investigation ongoing 9:45 p.m., July 24 Oak Drive SE, Mount Zion Rd SW & Cleveland Ave SW Three related shootings: 18-year-old male killed; 21-year-old woman shot in shoulder. Three shot on Mount Zion Rd, one critically. One male with gunshot wound found during traffic stop. No arrests. More info RELATED STORY: 18-year-old killed in SE Atlanta park shooting identified; 5 others injured The Source Information in this article came from the Atlanta Police Department via press releases and speaking with FOX 5. FOX 5's Alexa Liacko and Joyce Lupiana contributed to the article. A look at the day ahead in European and global markets from Gregor Stuart Hunter We may be hearing a lot about the art of the deal this week. With the U.S. tariff deadline bearing down on the global economy at the end of this week, it's the EU's turn to announce a trade deal with the White House, albeit one that is skewed in the U.S.'s favour. The agreement lowers the baseline tariff on most European imports to 15% from the Trump administration's earlier threat of a 30% rate, while committing the EU to invest some $600 billion in the United States. Governments around the world are racing to reach trade agreements with the U.S. to avert the imposition of the Liberation Day tariffs that were first announced on April 2. Talks are also taking place between the U.S. and China in Stockholm on Monday, with reports indicating another 90-day extension to the tariff deadline may be in the works. As Vasu Menon, managing director for investment strategy at OCBC in Singapore, puts it: "The 15% tariff is a pleasant surprise as it is half of what the U.S. threatened to impose on the EU, and it offers hope that other major trading partners of the U.S. could also strike deals of this nature soon." The deal appears to mirror the one struck between the U.S. and Japan last week, with a pattern emerging of unilateral investment in exchange for a lower tariff. That could indicate what to expect as talks go down to the wire with other big economies like China, South Korea and Taiwan. The new U.S. tariff rate on the EU extends to medicinal and pharmaceutical products and motor vehicles, which were the bloc's biggest exports to the U.S. last year. Aircraft and their components, the next biggest segment, will have zero-for-zero tariffs, though the U.S. will keep in place a 50% tariff on steel and aluminium. Investors welcomed the trade deal that avoids a trade war and could bring clarity for companies. Pan-region futures climbed 1%, German DAX futures rose 1%, and FTSE futures gained 0.5%. U.S. equity futures rose 0.4% following the deal, putting the S&P 500 on track for a sixth consecutive day of gains and potentially a new peak. Earnings from Heineken will headline the corporate diary on Monday as the world's second-largest brewer counts the cost of tariffs. However, the firm's shares will likely get a boost from the newly-agreed framework deal along with automakers and drugmakers in the region. Key developments that could influence markets on Monday: Earnings: Heineken NV, Wise PLC, EssilorLuxottica SA UK data: CBI Distributive Trades for July LAGOS, Nigeria (AP) Attack by militants on a military base in Burkina Faso has killed about 50 soldiers, community leader and resident say. ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) An Altoona man was stabbed in the chest Monday night, leading to attempted homicide charges being filed, according to the Altoona Police Department. Christopher Smith, 20 (Altoona Police Department) Christopher Smith, 20, of Hollidaysburg, is charged with attempted homicide, aggravated assault, possessing instruments of crime, simple assault, criminal trespass, disorderly conduct and harassment after police were called to the 1000 block of 4th Avenue for a reported stabbing. Upon arrival, at approximately 9:05 p.m., police found a 38-year-old male with a 4-inch-deep stab wound to his chest. He was rushed to UPMC Altoona for what were considered life-threatening injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through investigating, police said they determined Smith traveled to Altoona to confront an ex-girlfriend, believing he was being set up by her current boyfriend. After arriving in the area, Smith was seen wearing black clothing and a black ski mask, causing alarm among several residents. One witness claimed they saw Smith riding his bike and stated he was going to kill someone, police noted. At one point, Smith stopped in the alley on the 1000 block of 3rd Avenue, where the victim spotted his suspicious behavior. According to police, the victim advised Smith that he was on private property and he needed to keep moving. An argument ensued, and Smith allegedly punched the victim before walking away for a brief moment. Smith then approached the victim again and was placed in a headlock, and both men fell into the grass. At this point, Smith allegedly took a knife from a sheath on his belt and stabbed the victim in the right side of his chest. Man accused of sexually assaulting Blair County teen found in Breezewood The two were broken up, and Smith left. Police said they located him at Sheetz on 7th Avenue and took him into custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the criminal complaint, Smiths version of what happened was inconsistent. He also allegedly claimed he was trying to stab the victim in the hand and was unable to explain how he stabbed him in the chest. Stay up to date with the latest news in the palm of your hand. Click here to download the WTAJ app for Apple and Android devices. Smith was arraigned Tuesday morning and remanded to Blair County Prison with bail set at $500,000. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Aug. 13. Altoona police also thanked PSP Hollidaysburg for their assistance. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. MEMPHIS, Tenn. The city of Memphis has released the results of the forensic audit of the Memphis Area Transit Authority after WREG investigators reported last week it was being withheld. On July 21, WREG Investigators revealed that the city of Memphis spent $600,000 on a forensic audit of the MATAs cash flows and transactions between Jan. 2019 and June 2024. MATA has been under the microscope after announcing last summer a $60 million shortfall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City withholds results of MATA audit report The mayor told us then, he was ordering a forensic audit as part of a broader effort to figure out the financial issues. We want to make sure that we are doing all that we can to get the organization stabilized, Mayor Paul Young said in an interview with WREG Investigators in November. Digging deeper into MATAs spending at spa, Amazon and more When we asked the city for the final report through the Tennessee Records Act, we received a response that said, The records requested are exempt from disclosure; therefore, your request is denied. They cited a statute of the law that basically asserts the attorney-client privilege. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, the city of Memphis released the results from the financial audit conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers. Courtesy of PricewaterhouseCoopers The audit confirms what WREG has reported that millions of dollars spent on an office space, in a high-rise downtown, tens of thousands spent on Grizzlies games, and on travel. Auditors also looked at millions paid to vendors over the last several years. They said that of the 264 invoices received, 45% were missing evidence of invoice approval as required by MATA policy. The full audit provided by the city of Memphis is below. Final_City_of_Memphis_Financial_Lookback_ReportDownload Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. By Renju Jose and Byron Kaye SYDNEY (Reuters) -Australia said on Wednesday it will add YouTube to sites covered by its world-first ban on social media for teenagers, reversing an earlier decision to exempt the Alphabet-owned video-sharing site and potentially setting up a legal challenge. The decision came after the internet regulator urged the government last month to overturn the YouTube carve-out, citing a survey that found 37% of minors reported harmful content on the site, the worst showing for a social media platform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm calling time on it," Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a statement highlighting that Australian children were being negatively affected by online platforms, and reminding social media of their social responsibility. "I want Australian parents to know that we have their backs." The decision broadens the ban set to take effect in December. YouTube says it is used by nearly three-quarters of Australians aged 13 to 15, and should not be classified as social media because its main activity is hosting videos. "Our position remains clear: YouTube is a video sharing platform with a library of free, high-quality content, increasingly viewed on TV screens. It's not social media," a YouTube spokesperson said by email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the government said last year it would exempt YouTube due to its popularity with teachers, platforms covered by the ban, such as Meta's Facebook and Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok, have complained. They say YouTube has key similarities to their products, including letting users interact and recommending content through an algorithm based on activity. The ban outlaws YouTube accounts for those younger than 16, allowing parents and teachers to show videos on it to minors. "Teachers are always curators of any resource for appropriateness (and) will be judicious," said Angela Falkenberg, president of the Australian Primary Principals Association, which supports the ban. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Artificial intelligence has supercharged the spread of misinformation on social media platforms such as YouTube, said Adam Marre, chief information security officer at cyber security firm Arctic Wolf. "The Australian government's move to regulate YouTube is an important step in pushing back against the unchecked power of big tech and protecting kids," he added in an email. The reversal sets up a fresh dispute with Alphabet, which threatened to withdraw some Google services from Australia in 2021 to avoid a law forcing it to pay news outlets for content appearing in searches. Last week, YouTube told Reuters it had written to the government urging it "to uphold the integrity of the legislative process". Australian media said YouTube threatened a court challenge, but YouTube did not confirm that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I will not be intimidated by legal threats when this is a genuine fight for the well-being of Australian kids," Communications Minister Anika Wells told parliament on Wednesday. The law passed in November only requires "reasonable steps" by social media platforms to keep out Australians younger than 16, or face a fine of up to A$49.5 million. The government, which is due to receive a report this month on tests of age-checking products, has said those results will influence enforcement of the ban. ($1=1.5363 Australian dollars) (Reporting by Renju Jose and Byron Kaye in Sydney; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and Clarence Fernandez) When Phil Chronican, the chairman of Australias second-largest bank, held a lunch with investors last month, he probably expected be asked the usual questions about National Australia Banks interest margins or capital ratios. But one query came straight out of left-field. According to accounts from inside the room, at least one fund manager asked Chronican whether the board was planning to tackle the chief executive, Andrew Irvine, about drinking alcohol at client events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After news of the exchange leaked out, an NAB spokesman said the board backed Irvine and the leadership team are delivering sound financial and operational results. The chief himself later said he very rarely went to lunch with the banks customers, but engaging with them helps me understand their business and helps them understand how we are supporting them and they often give us their business as a result. Still, the media coverage has kicked off a round of soul-searching in the executive suites and boardrooms of corporate Australia. Executives asked each other how much, if even at all, they should be boozing in or around the office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The controversy underlined how much things have changed in Australia, whose population long enjoyed a reputation as thirsty and enthusiastic consumers of wine and beer. The image of the lager-loving larrikin was embedded into the British consciousness by the likes of Crocodile Dundee star Paul Hogan and his jocular 1980s TV adverts for Fosters. Crocodile Dundee actor Paul Hogan appeared in a series of adverts for Fosters in the 1980s - Advertising Archives One of the few facts almost every Briton knows about Australian politics is that one of the countrys prime ministers, Bob Hawke, set the world record for the fastest guzzle of a yard of ale. As recently as 2021, Australia still ranked fourth for alcohol consumption among a sample of the 38 rich countries of the OECD quaffing 10.7 litres per person per year, compared with Britains 10 litres. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But attitudes are changing fast. Liquid lunches and messy after-work drinks are now the exception rather than the norm. There is no question that the days of the long lunches, the boozy lunches in Australia are gone. If they happen, its a rarity, says Richard Basil-Jones, chief executive of the Australia-UK Chamber of Commerce. He has been in Britain about two years, and hes noticed a difference between his home town of Sydney and his adopted city of London, with its multitude of inviting pubs. In Sydney Id probably have done my meetings with a coffee in the morning, or a breakfast. Maybe it wouldve been a lunch, but it certainly wouldnt have been a long, boozy one, he says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the one big difference in London is that here people say, Oh, how about we catch up after work for a pint? It is a trend which has accelerated owing to the growing number of younger Australians choosing to abstain. At the turn of the century, the proportion of Australians aged 18 to 24 who said they never drank was just under 10pc, a figure which has surged to almost 25pc since. If you look at the whole culture within Australia, weve just seen such a significant shift. There has been a fundamental change in the way people approach alcohol, and in examining the relationship with alcohol, says Simon Strahan, chief executive of the charity DrinkWise. Staying sharp A big part of this shift is attributed to the Covid pandemic, when people socialised less and became more focused on their physical and mental health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This has survived the return to the office, and has now rippled out into the bar and restaurant trade. Jeremy Courmadias was until recently the chief executive of Fink Group, owner of some of Sydneys most A-list business lunch spots including Bennelong, which is located in the citys Opera House. Having spent more than two decades in the business, he has seen the shift first-hand. He says companies have tried to take more control of business wining and dining, both to contain the cost and to keep it private. If theyre [companies] entertaining clients, theyve got catering and dining facilities of their own. So we dont necessarily see as much at restaurants as we used to, says Courmadias. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When office groups do hit a restaurant, things seldom get as raucous as they used to. At the end of the week, people might still let go a little bit, he says. But at dinners early on in the week, the big corporate events that youd be doing, they would probably be a little bit more of a sombre affair. At lunchtimes, tighter budgets and a more abstemious culture mean fewer people are ordering wine by the bottle. They dont want to drink because they want to stay sharp, Courmadias adds. Theyre just not as interested in drinking as much as they can before getting back to the office. In the run-up to Australias recent election, Peter Dutton, the conservative opposition leader, proposed a new tax break for business lunching in order to give the hospitality trade a boost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it gained little traction among voters focused on the cost of living, who frowned at the idea of businesses getting a tax break to wine and dine on the corporate card. Even when diners are opting to drink less during business lunches, they will still often opt for the best glass of wine available. To make that work, restaurants have embraced the Coravin which uses a needle to extract wine without taking the cork out. You can pour a glass of wine from a very expensive bottle without soiling the whole bottle, says Courmadias. And that bottle could last three or four weeks, so you dont need to write the bottle off in the process and you can actually offer more at that premium end of the market. Restaurants are also investing more in non-alcoholic drinks such mocktails, sodas and spritzes which require bar staff to be just as creative as if they were designing a cocktail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is mirrored in beer sales, with almost one-third of beer sold in Australia now zero-alcohol or low- to mid-strength. To meet the market where it is, Australian brewers have been innovating and diversifying our product offerings for many years, says Amanda Watson, chief executive of the Australian Brewers Association. DrinkWises Strahan says its now standard practice for companies to provide zero- or low-alcohol beers at functions and events, compared to 15 years ago when the only non-alcoholic version would be water. Most people who are choosing to have a drink are doing so in moderation, and the workplace is looking at that and saying, Well, thats something that we can facilitate, he says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he acknowledges that there is still a proportion of people who will look at workplace events as a chance to potentially cut loose. However, a DrinkWise survey suggests only a quarter of Australians now choose to do so in their workplace or at work events. And almost two thirds say they dont feel self-conscious about sticking to zero- or low-alcohol drinks when others in their group are boozing. That sort of number really does indicate that theres a distinct cultural shift, Strahan says. It looks like National Australia Banks Irvine has now been caught up in Australias drift towards abstemiousness. Although theres a slight irony here: he is actually from Canada. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A troubling surge in the illegal trade of wildlife parts has prompted a major crackdown in Kota, a city in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan, with authorities warning that anyone keeping such wildlife parts in their homes "will attract penal action." The Kota Forest Department, working with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau in Delhi, recently arrested two men for smuggling monitor lizard genitals, according to ETV Bharat. They were sold under the name hatha jodi, a term used in parts of India to describe what some believe is a sacred or magical root, but is often wildlife tissue being passed off as such. What's happening? Authorities uncovered a network selling the body parts of male monitor lizards after reports revealed residents were buying them in hopes of attracting prosperity. Acting on a tip, a female forest officer posed as a customer and bought two hatha jodis for 400 Indian rupees ($4.63) from one of the smugglers, Deepak Bawari, in the Balita Road neighborhood. The parts were confirmed to be authentic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With help from WCCB, officials set up a larger sting involving a deal for 100 pieces. When Deepak and his accomplice Jairam Bawari arrived to deliver 28 hatha jodis and four horns, they were arrested. A follow-up raid in Nantha uncovered live turtles, bird claws, a leopard's paw, snares, and weapons used for hunting. Officials suspect widespread involvement across about 100 huts in the area. Why is wildlife trafficking concerning? Trafficking protected species doesn't just harm wildlife it can destabilize ecosystems that communities depend on. Monitor lizards help control pests and contribute to ecological balance. When their populations decline, it could trigger ripple effects that may indirectly affect farming, water quality, and even public health, especially in communities that depend closely on local ecosystems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This type of illegal trade, driven by misinformation, also makes it harder to enforce wildlife protection laws and protect the communities that depend on healthy ecosystems. What's being done about wildlife trafficking? A formal case has been filed against the suspects under India's Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, a law that prohibits hunting or trading protected species and their body parts. Officials are urging residents to voluntarily surrender any wildlife artifacts they may still possess. "Those who still keep wildlife parts in their homes are requested to submit their possessions to the Forest Department, failing which will attract penal action," said Deputy Conservator of Forest Anurag Bhatnagar. Forest authorities plan to continue raids and expand outreach to counter harmful myths and protect vulnerable species. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. GREGG COUNTY, Texas (KETK) The Gregg County Sheriffs Office is searching for a missing 38-year-old man last seen on Saturday in Kilgore. According to the sheriffs office, Mitchell Walters was last seen in the early morning hours of Saturday in Kilgore, and it is believed he is traveling on foot towards Tyler. Smith County authorities searching for 15-year-old runaway Here is Walters description: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wearing a black t-shirt, blue jeans and black Nike shoes Tattoos: MRW on the left side of his neck VEDA on his right shoulder A smoking gun with a dollar sign on his left forearm Photos of Mitchell Walters, courtesy of the Gregg County Sheriffs Office If anyone has any information about Walters whereabouts, they are encouraged to contact the Gregg County Sheriffs Office: Criminal Investigation Division at 903-237-2544. You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. PARK HILLS, Mo. After nearly 10 weeks, an autopsy has been finished for the death of 3-year-old Conrad Ashcraft. Conrad, a nonverbal child with autism, died at Poppys Playhouse 2 in Park Hills on May 16, but an official cause of death has not been revealed. Its heartbreaking, exhausting (and) frustrating, said Danielle Love, Conrads cousin. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Subscribe Now Daily News Love and the rest of Ashcrafts family have waited 73 days for answers. Its frustrating. Theres no reason that somebody shouldnt have been arrested at this point, especially with all of the information thats been released, Crystal McWilliams, a family friend, said. According to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Conrad died after a caregiver held him down at nap time and laid him under an 18-pound weighted blanket. However, the coroner has not said if that is what caused Conrads death. Responding to a civil lawsuit in court, that caregiver simply wrote, not guilty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Something shouldve been done. Arrests shouldve been made. A court date shouldve been scheduled. Something, Love said. On Monday, FOX 2 confirmed the St. Francois County Coroners Office has now completed the autopsy. But they said the special prosecutor in the case, Trisha Stefanski, will not release it due to the ongoing investigation. Netflix reality show Love is Blind casting call in St. Louis With the community thats rallied behind us as much as we have to get the help, I dont understand why we cant know what it is, McWilliams said. FOX 2 filed a sunshine request, which was denied. FOX 2 also reached out to the St. Francois County Sheriff and the special prosecutor to get answers but did not hear back by the time of publication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We all want answers. At the very least his parents deserve the answers. Everybody deserves to know, Love said. A search of court records on Monday afternoon shows that the caregiver accused of putting the blanket on Conrad has not been charged. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Gov. Kelly Ayotte said she had privately lobbied Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to lift the freeze. (Photo by Will Steinfeld/New Hampshire Bulletin) The Trump administration will release a series of grants to schools in New Hampshire and other states that it had abruptly withheld in June, ending weeks of uncertainty for schools across the country. On Friday, the U.S. Department of Education announced it would release the final $5.5 billion of a $6.8 billion portion of funding designated for English language learner instruction, college and career counseling, STEM programs, and educator training. The department had held that $6.8 billion for weeks, pending a review. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administration had previously released $1.3 billion of the $6.8 billion, which will go to summer and after-school programs, on July 18. Fridays announcement means that $27 million in total assistance grants for New Hampshire schools is no longer in limbo. The release came after pushback against the freeze from Democrats and some Republicans, which included a lawsuit filed by Democratic-led states. New Hampshire Republican Gov. Kelly Ayotte, who did not publicly comment when the department instituted the freeze, hailed the reversal and claimed partial credit for it, saying she had privately lobbied Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to lift the freeze. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, Governor Kelly Ayotte secured the release of federal education funding for academic enrichment, English language learning, and other key programs for New Hampshire schools, a statement from her office read Friday. As I told Secretary McMahon in multiple meetings, this funding is critical to delivering a best-in-class education for every child in New Hampshire, and I thank her and the Trump Administration for responding to our concerns, Ayotte said in a statement. I will continue to advocate directly for the programs and services Granite Staters depend on. U.S. Rep. Maggie Goodlander, a Democrat representing the states 2nd Congressional District, also claimed credit, pointing to her weeks of advocacy toward the Trump administration. The funding freeze began on June 30, when the Trump administration told state departments of education it would hold back money from multiple funding programs until federal officials could confirm that the funding was spent in accordance with the Presidents priorities and the Departments statutory responsibilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those programs included Title II-A, which helps pay for teacher professional development; Title III-A, which helps fund English language learning; Title IV-A, which pays for some STEM education and college and career counseling; and Title IV-B, which funds after-school and summer programs. School administrators and Democrats blasted the freeze, which they said would deprive school districts of funds they had been relying on when they crafted and passed their budgets in spring. Superintendents in larger districts, such as Nashua, said the loss of funding could have required staff layoffs in the fall, especially in the English language learning program. On July 14, two weeks after the freeze, attorneys general in 24 states and the District of Columbia sued to require the Trump administration to release the funds. New Hampshires attorney general did not sign on to that lawsuit. In a statement Monday, the New Hampshire Department of Education welcomed the funds, but said the Trump administrations review was necessary. This review ensures that the students of New Hampshire are supported in accordance with congressional objectives, which supports the goal of leading to bright futures for all children in the state, the statement said. Within the U.S. Department of Educations notification to release the funding, it included important parameters to ensure the grants are distributed according to their intended purpose, and we look forward to working with the schools to maximize the grants for the students of New Hampshire. A new brewery and live music venue opened earlier this summer in Granite Falls and the owners say the local community has been very welcoming. Marty Doughtery and his partner Melanie Bartenstein opened B Chord Live at 47 Duke Street in the building formerly known as Granite Falls Brewing Company. Before getting into the brewing business, Dougherty owned an internet company in the early 2010s. He sold that company with plans to get into the brewing business, eventually opening a farm brewery in northern Virginia. Although the business had a good run, the brewing industry in the area exploded, becoming oversaturated, Doughtery said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added that the state of Virgina also has stricter regulations for breweries, like what type of food can be sold and how beer is distributed. Eventually, Dougherty and his partners at the time chose to sell the farm for a lot more money than they initially paid for it. But Dougherty wasnt finished in the business. I wanted to start over again, but in a place where it would make a lot more sense and would be a lot more viable, Dougherty said. North Carolina was super high on the list. Not only is it a very business-friendly state, but the rules for a brewery are really ideal. We can have a restaurant, we can have a bar, we can have wine, we can have spirits, we can have all these things that people want. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Part of why having that flexibility is so important, Dougherty explained, is so they can draw in a younger crowd. With bluegrass being the focus of the live music at B Chord Live, Dougherty said young people dont always gravitate towards that genre. So, he hopes to foster a love for bluegrass for all demographics. One of the things that I think is important is, young people want to have beer, wine, spirits, they want good food, they want to go to a nice place that has to be cool, and the vibe has to be right, he said. After spending a couple of years traveling around North Carolina and looking for the perfect place, Dougherty said Granite Falls Brewing Company came up for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he felt that there was a real opportunity to help bring something new and exciting to Granite Falls. So, they bought the building in November. Everybody has been so welcoming, Dougherty said. Its very obvious that they want us to succeed. So, we definitely picked the right place. Doughtery said theres plenty of space for live music, though they plan to build more, as well as a large commercial kitchen, loading docks, drive-in coolers and even a brewing system twice the size of the one he had in Virginia. The building is also steeped in history, having served as both a Pepsi and Cheerwine company building long before it was ever a brewery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From casual jam sessions to full-out live shows, good food and beverages for everyones specific tastes, B Chord Live looks to offer a lot of fun for all. Were not just music, Dougherty said. We have a restaurant, we have a bar, we have all kinds of cool things going on. The plan is to continue improving, too, with a bigger stage, additional bathrooms, better parking and more. Doughtery and Bartenstein even bought a small home across the street from B Chord. We sold everything and left our past lives behind, he said. I have four kids and Melanie has two, and theyre all grown up and off doing their thing. So, this is kind of like our happy life. B Chord Live is open Tuesday-Sunday from noon to 11 p.m. For more information, visit bchordmusic.com or call 828-212-0525. Healthcare packaging solutions provider Nelipak has initiated construction of a new facility in Costa Rica's Green Valley, Grecia, Alajuela. The 60,000ft industrial facility is being developed in partnership with Costa Rican real-estate developer Portafolio Inmobiliario. The facility, which is expected to open in mid-2026, will substantially increase Nelipak's capacity and capabilities in the region. It will expand production capabilities to include thin- and heavy-gauge thermoforming, die-cut pouch cards, and inserts. The site will boast International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 13485 certification and include ISO-7 clean room manufacturing space, adhering to the highest standards for sterile-barrier healthcare packaging. Nelipak CEO Pat Chambliss expressed excitement about the construction commencement, emphasising the company's dedication to its South American and Caribbean customers. "This investment underscores our long-term commitment to our customers in Latin America and the Caribbean, and reflects our strategy to provide global excellence with strong local support," said Chambliss. Costa Rica Minister of Foreign Trade Manuel Tovar lauded Nelipak's expansion as a testament to the company's confidence in Costa Rica as a strategic platform for its specialised packaging solutions in the life sciences packaging sector. "We congratulate Nelipak for its commitment to innovation, the creation of quality employment, and the promotion of sustainable growth for the benefit of our country and the region," Tovar remarked. Since acquiring ATE in 2012, Nelipak has been operating in Costa Rica, supplying medical device manufacturers with custom packaging products. The new facility will provide additional warehousing and distribution space, allowing for future growth in line with customer demands. Nelipak said the new plant reinforces Costa Rica's status as a prime location for medical device manufacturing and underscores its role as a key player in the global healthcare supply chain. Nelipak employs 1,400 people across 11 sites globally, comprising six sites in North America and five sites in Europe. Earlier this year, Nelipak said it would invest in the future of sterile-barrier medical packaging in the Asia-Pacific egion, with an intention to extend its capabilities to meet increasing customer requirements. "Nelipak starts construction on new healthcare packaging plant in Costa Rica" was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand. SAN JOSE, Calif. (KRON) A San Jose mother appeared in court Monday to face murder charges after her baby fatally overdosed on fentanyl at home. Winter was 19 months old when she died on August 12, 2023 at 1550 Huddersfield Court. Her mother, Kelly Richardson, her father, Derek Rayo, and the parents live-in drug dealer, Philip Michael Ortega, are charged with murder for Winters fentanyl poisoning. They have pleaded not guilty, and the trio is being held in jail without bail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before Richardson stands trial for murder, another trial will be held to re-determine her mental competency. On Monday, Judge Kelley Paul granted a motion filed by prosecutors seeking Richardsons mental health records documenting her time in jail between January and the end of July. The records include psychiatric technician reports, psychological assessments, psychology progress, and written examinations of the 30-year-old woman. Baby Winters parents, Derek Rayo and Kelly Richardson, are seen in mugshots provided by the San Jose Police Department. Prosecutors said the parents and their drug dealer are linked inextricably together in the crime of murder. Richardson, Rayo, and Ortega lived together in the five months leading to Winter Does death, and each assumed a duty of care for Winter Doe in some capacity, prosecutors wrote in court documents. While Rayo was a stay-at-home dad and Ortega periodically filled-in as a babysitter, Winters mother had a job that required her to work in the evenings, court records state. Drug use within the home was prevalent, investigators said. Prosecutors wrote in court documents, Richardsons phone contained photos of defendant Rayo nodded out due to drug use on the bed in close proximity to Winter Doe. Richardson also took selfies with Winter Doe with drug paraphernalia or drug use visible in the background. Kelly Richardson listens in court on Nov. 27, 2023. (KRON4 image) In addition to seizing photographic evidence, investigators found text and social media messages documenting the trios communications. In Richardsons messages, she allegedly expressed concerns about her babys wellbeing and potential drug exposure while Winter was being cared for by either Rayo or Oretga. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court documents state, Richardson confronted defendant Rayo in text messages and social media stating, for example, ur passed out while watching (Winter) arent you. The evidence shows that, in addition to using narcotics herself, defendant Richardson regularly left (Winter) in the care of defendant Rayo despite knowing about the life-threatening danger that defendant Rayo posed to their daughter. Richardson also left Winter Doe in the care of defendant Ortega. Investigators found another text message that Richardson sent to Ortega before she left to go to work on June 16, 2023, court documents show. In the message, she asked Ortega if he had any methamphetamine for her. Ortega replied, Hey you guys see the rails out in the kitchen? Richardson replied, Omg where? Derek slept the whole time he was supposed to be watching (Winter) while I was at work. Are they still there? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oretga answered, They were out there. Rayo called 911 on August 12, 2023. The DAs office wrote, Winters parents waited more than 12 hours before calling 911 to report that their daughter was dead. Rayo told detectives that he may have rolled over on top of Winter while they were co-sleeping together in a bedroom. Court documents state, Winter Doe was located on the bed of the master bedroom with a rug folded over her dead body. On the nightstand next to Winter Doe, SJPD officers located a butane torch, white pill, powder residue, and scrape tools. A medical examiners autopsy concluded that the baby died from a toxic combination of methamphetamine and fentanyl. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baby Phoenix Castros father asks judge for mental health diversion A second baby in San Jose, 3-month-old Phoenix Castro, died from fentanyl poisoning just a few months before Winter. Her father, David Castro, and Ortega are charged with murder for the death of Baby Phoenix. The DAs office wrote, Evidence shows that Castro sought and Ortega provided drugs to Castro the night before his daughter was found dead in the home. Ortega also provided the deadly drugs that led to the death of Baby Winter just 91 days later. District Attorney Jeff Rosen previously said, The fact that the same man provided the fatal drugs that took the lives of Baby Phoenix and Baby Winter within a handful of months of each other is beyond shocking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A preliminary hearing for Castro and Ortega is scheduled to begin on August 25. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. Two teens were shot in Mesquite in the early hours of Monday morning the citys second fatal teen shooting within a week. Officers with the Mesquite Police Department responded to a shooting early the morning of July 28, according to a statement the department posted on Facebook. A 15-year-old and 16 16-year-old were in a bedroom when gunshots rang out, resulting in the 15-year-old being in critical condition, and the 16-year-old, who lived in the home, being dead. Mesquite police responded to a reported shooting at 12:51 a.m. near 1500 Rusk Drive, according to the statement. The teens were in a bedroom when an adult resident of the home heard gunshots. After going into the room, the adult found they had both sustained gunshot wounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both teens were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment, where the 16-year-old died. At this time, the incident appears to be isolated to the individuals involved, and there is no known threat to the public, the statement reads. Officials said they would provide further information as soon as possible. The Dallas Express reached out to Mesquite police, but did not hear back in time for publication. Just less than a week ago, Mesquite saw a chillingly similar incident another 15 and 16-year-old was involved in a shooting, and the 16-year-old died. Mesquite police responded to a shooting near 2100 Pecan Creek Drive at 9:30 p.m. on July 24, the department posted on Facebook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When officers arrived, they found a 15-year-old male suffering from a gunshot wound, and responders brought him to a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. A 16-year-old male was also found nearby and pronounced deceased at the scene. According to WFAA, he was identified as Brandon Lil Wayne McGhee. Investigators identified the suspect as a 15-year-old male and arrested him at 10:05 a.m. on July 26. Mesquite police were still investigating the shooting at the time of the statement. Officials urged anyone with information to contact the department. The Kohl Jewish Volunteer Center (Kohl JVC) at the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County and the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County came together for a back-to-school initiative on July 15, helping pack backpacks with essential school supplies for 30,000 students for the upcoming academic year. About 20 volunteers spent their day at Red Apple Supplies in Lake Worth filling backpacks with supplies and organizing items for future volunteer efforts. The backpacks will be given to students across 48 local low-income schools. On August 4, volunteers will return to Red Apple Supplies to prepare teacher kits that include educational materials and items for their classrooms. Fifi Bumgardner with donated supplies, including paper, markets, pencils, and more. (Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County/Courtesy) Gary Gerstenfeld and Linda Goldman hold PJ Library bags, given as a gift to all volunteers for their support. (Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County/Courtesy) Amy Gordon and Jillian Loss hold up a plaque from the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County thanking the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County for their 2025 Backpack Initiative. (Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County/Courtesy) Lauren Stuhmer joined two dozen volunteers to stock nearly 400 backpacks with essential school supplies. (Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County/Courtesy) Fifi Bumgardner and Linda Goldman work together to organize supplies. (Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County/Courtesy) Steven Pike organized backpacks for the back-to-school initiative. (Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County/Courtesy) Madden Katcher, 14, and Michael Gordon helped pack backpacks at Red Apple Supplies in Lake Worth. (Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County /Courtesy) Ariel Hodge and Leigh Meyer fill backpacks with notebooks and other supplies. (Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County/Courtesy) Show Caption1 of 9Sondra Friedlander, Linda Goldman, Fifi Bumgardner and others sort backpacks in a variety of colors to fill with school supplies. (Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County/Courtesy)Expand To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit jewishpb.org/volunteer. SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) Back-to-school season is here, and with nearly 2 million children heading back to classrooms across Georgia, safety is top of mind. Ahead of the first day of school, AAA and local officials are urging drivers to slow down and stay alert. As students return to class next Monday, drivers will see more kids walking, biking, and boarding buses. However, most child pedestrian deaths happen on school weekdays, right before or after school. Thats why AAA is making safe transportation to school a top priority. AAA, in partnership with the Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools (SCCPSS) and local police, is renewing its Schools open, drive carefully campaign. It focuses on reducing speeding, distractions, and dangerous driving in school zones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A survey shows 41% of Georgians speed and 28% use phones in active school zones. To address this, Chatham Countys school zone speed cameras will reactivate on August 4. The campaign also highlights Addys Law, which fines drivers $1,000 and may jail those who illegally pass stopped school buses. In a statement, SCCPSS shared, Our number one priority is to keep our staff and students safe not only while they are in school but also on their way to and from school. This campaign reminder for drivers at the beginning of each school year is invaluable in helping us to achieve that goal. Last year alone, over 31,000 speeding violations were recorded, but officials say those numbers have dropped more than 90% since the cameras were first installed in 2021. On average, 173 drivers sped through the Chatham school zones every day last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Back-to-School Safety Stats & Reminders: 41% of Georgia drivers admit to speeding in active school zones $1,000+ fine for passing a stopped school bus School zone speed cameras reactivating August 4 31,154 violations caught by Chatham County school zone cameras last year 90% drop in school zone speeding since cameras launched in 2021 In 2023, 63% of child pedestrian deaths happened during the school week. Thats a statistic AAA and Georgia schools are determined to change. The school zone cameras that will reactivate on August 4th target drivers going 11mph above the limit. AAAs campaign, which has been running since 1946, focuses on life-saving tips, like coming to a full stop at crosswalks, checking for children before reversing, and eliminating distractions. Meanwhile, safety patrollers and school officials will be stepping up efforts to educate parents and students on crossing rules and drop-off safety. The overall goal is to prevent tragedy before it strikes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. Balboa Park parking discussions move forward, parking meters to be installed outside the park SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) San Diego City Council members discussed the next steps for charging for parking inside and near Balboa Park on Monday. The exact figures and timeframes have not yet ben finalized, and city council members spent much of the meeting discussing what they believe would be fair for San Diego residents and parkgoers. While discussions are still underway regarding the amount to charge for parking inside Balboa Park, the city council voted to allow for parking meters adjacent to the park. Parking inside Balboa Park The proposal includes charging between $5 and $15 for parking in and around Balboa Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Discussions during Mondays meeting proposed charging in a three-tier program, ranging from $6 to $12. The proposal recommends that City of San Diego residents would be eligible for parking lot day passes at a 50% discount off the highest tiered price, and Balboa Park employees and nonprofit workers in the park would have access to tier two and three lots at no charge, the city announced. The level one lot would cost $12 and $6 for residents. This includes the core of the Central Mesa area, including Alcazar, Organ Pavilion, Pan American Plaza (Palisades), Casa de Balboa, Fleet Science Center North (Pepper Grove North), the Natural History Museum and South Carousel lots. Level two would be priced at half the level one rate, around $6, but not provide any additional discount for residents. This would include Fleet Science Center South (Pepper Grove South), Starlight Bowl (Federal), Marston Point and Veterans Museum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Level three lots would be the same price as level two, but with the first two hours free to preserve access for short-term visitors. This would include Inspiration Point. Parking meters outside Balboa Park City council staff did not yet vote on the parking changes inside Balboa Park, but did vote on creating a parking meter zone to allow for metered parking on Sixth Avenue and Park Boulevard. The proposed charges would be $2.50 an hour, with a 4-hour maximum parking allotment, from 8 am 8 pm, seven days a week. They aim to install the nearly 300 meters, signage and markings throughout September. This would be expected to bring in about 1 million dollars of revenue each year. Some who spoke during the meeting said they bring their children to theatre nearly everyday, and couldnt afford the cost of parking. A representative from the Navy also spoke out against charging for parking at the Navy Medical Center at Balboa Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Balboa Park is indeed the crown jewel of San Diego, offering enriching cultural experiences as well as a place for our families and friends to enjoy together, said Parks and Recreation Department Director Andy Field. This proposal offers reasonable and affordable options for parking, and the funds raised will be used to upkeep and maintain our beloved park. The city claims that revenues from the parking fees paid within the park must be spent on Balboa Park, to support ongoing maintenance, infrastructure improvements, and visitor amenities such as increased service levels for the park tram. Eligible uses may include road repaving, lighting upgrades, signage improvements and landscaping. Paid parking for the San Diego Zoo is still under discussion. The parking changes could go into effect this fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. The Bank of England has received thousands of responses to its appeal for ideas for the first major redesign of banknotes in 50 years. They included a high volume of ideas from young people despite trends showing they are less likely to use cash, instead preferring mobile payments. "We have had many thousands of responses and lots of interest and engagement from young people too," said Victoria Cleland, the Bank of England's chief cashier, whose signature appears on every banknote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It released some examples of designs it has received, including a dolphin, the Sycamore Gap tree - also known as the Robin Hood tree - and the Angel of the North sculpture in Gateshead. "The reaction shows how important banknotes are as way to celebrate the UK and how much we have to celebrate," Ms Cleland said. The Bank of England asked for public views on new themes for bank notes, such as nature, innovation, or key events in history. They were also asked to suggest other themes by the end of July. "People have engaged strongly with our six suggested themes, and within these have suggested a wide range ideas, from engineering achievements to folklore and mythology to transport," Ms Cleland said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This public consultation relates to the Bank's next series, which will also continue to include an image of the monarch. The final decision on what exactly features on a banknote lies with the Bank's governor Andrew Bailey. Current design Notable historical figures, such as Sir Winston Churchill on the current fiver, have appeared on banknotes since 1970 but could be on the way out. The monarch has appeared on Bank of England notes since 1960. Images of historical characters, starting with William Shakespeare, were first seen on the reverse side a decade later. Now, the Bank is proposing that designs on the next series of notes could move on. While notable historical figures remain an option, other possible subjects suggested by the Bank include: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement architecture and landmarks, such as famous buildings or castles arts, culture and sport, including food, film and novels noteworthy events in history, which could include events or movements innovation, such as technology or discoveries nature, celebrating plants, animals or natural landscapes such as rivers or coastal scenes Banknotes issued in Scotland and Northern Ireland already carry images of landmarks and animals such as otters. Euro banknotes feature architectural styles. More on this story [BBC] Get our flagship newsletter with all the headlines you need to start the day. Sign up here. BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. (KTAL/KMSS) It was a day of celebration at Hoban Hall on the morning of July 28, as Barksdale Air Force Base (BAFB) welcomed a new 2nd Bomb Wing Commander. Colonel Chris Cain, a Bossier City native, was named the new Wing Commander, following the leadership of Colonel Michael Maginess. Two airmen become U.S. citizens at Barksdale Air Force Base Col. Maginess and Col. Cain have known each other for more than twenty years and served together at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota prior to their return to BAFB. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having worked with Colonel Maginess for so many years, weve known each other for over two decades. And I know he left things in a great state, shared Col. Cain when asked how he felt taking over the position of Wing Commander after Col. Maginess. Defenders of Liberty Airshow returns to Barksdale Air Force Base Just excited! Im ready to get to work and serve our airmen here. Weve got a great command team in place. And we look forward to all the partnerships were going to have in the community in the next couple of years ahead, Col. Cain also shared. Following the Change in Command ceremony, a retirement ceremony was held for Colonel Maginess, celebrating his retirement after more than twenty years of service in the U.S. Air Force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. MORGAN COUNTY, Mo. A 32-year-old man from Barnett, Missouri, was killed in an SUV crash during the early morning of Tuesday, July 29. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report, a northbound 2007 Pontiac Torrent traveled off the right side of Route AA north of Jones Creek Road north of Barnett. The SUV overcorrected and then ran off the left side of the roadway, crashing into an embankment. The vehicle then overturned and ejected the driver before stopping, the crash report states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Missouri Attorney General sues contractor for allegedly scamming the elderly The driver was taken by an air ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia, where he was later pronounced dead. The next of kin have been notified of his passing. This is the 23rd fatality in MSHP Troop F in 2025, and the fourth in July. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. The Oklahoma State Department of Health conducts licensing and inspection of food establishments. Below are the results of the June and July inspections in Bartlesville, based on results reported in the department's online database. Bartlesville restaurants and establishments with food inspection violations in June and July The following restaurants reportedly had violations in the last series of inspections. ASAP General Store #307, 3901 Nowata Rd (Inspected 6/20/2025): Four violations were found concerning toxic substance storage, cleanliness of food contact surfaces, plumbing system maintenance and an unspecified issue. ASAP General Store #311, 2557 SE Washington Blvd (Inspected 6/20/2025): Four violations were found concerning toxic substance storage, cleanliness of food contact surfaces, plumbing system maintenance and an unspecified issue. Bartlesville Elks Lodge #1060 (Inspected 6/26/2024): Two violations were found concerning toxic substance storage and facility maintenance. Bartlesville Kiddie Park (Inspected 6/30/2025): Two violations were found concerning cleaning of non-food contact surfaces and overall facility cleanliness. Cafe 66 (Conoco Phillips) (Inspected 6/30/2025): Four violations were found concerning cleanliness of food contact surfaces, cleanability of all surfaces, facility cleanliness, and an unspecified issue. Caseys General Store #3274, 5350 SE Adams Blvd (Inspected 6/30/2025): Three violations were found concerning employee hygiene, non-food surface cleaning, and an unspecified issue. Game Time Pizza (Inspected 6/20/2025): Two violations were found concerning cleanliness of food contact surfaces and non-food contact surfaces. Homeland #515, 915 S Madison Blvd (Inspected 7/15/2025): Five violations were found concerning handwashing facilities, toxic substance storage, warewashing sanitation, cleanliness of food contact surfaces and non-food contact surface cleaning. Homeland #563, 811 SE Frank Phillips Blvd (Inspected 7/10/2025): Three violations were found concerning warewashing sanitation, cleaning of non-food contact surfaces and plumbing system maintenance. Jane Phillips Hospital (Inspected 7/8/2025): One violation was found concerning food contact surfaces. Senor Salsa (Inspected 7/10/2025): Four violations were found concerning food separation procedures, cleanliness of food contact surfaces, prevention of contamination during prep and employee hygiene. Simple Simon (Inspected 6/20/2025): One violation was found concerning cleaning of non-food contact surfaces. Walmart #41 (Inspected 7/15/2025): Six violations were found concerning cleanliness of food contact surfaces, food labeling, employee hygiene, non-food contact surface cleaning, facility cleanliness and an unspecified issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Dozens of Bartlesville restaurants cited for food safety violations in April and May The following food service locations were operating without a valid up-to-date permit or license in June and July, according to the state Department of Health database. Fairfield Inn & Suites Lighthouse Outreach Center Food establishments with no violations in June and July The following Bartlesville food service locations were inspected in June and July, and no violations were found, according to the state Department of Health database. Angelos Tavern (Inspected 6/27/2025) Broken Barbed Wire BBQ (Inspected 6/28/2024) Chelas Buffet (Inspected 7/14/2025) Chicken Express Bartlesville (Inspected 6/17/2025) DJs Southern Snow HQ (Inspected 6/27/2025) Dusty Rose Cakes (Inspected 6/26/2025) Eastside C.A.R.D. (Inspected 7/10/2025) Ginas Wine Bar & Cigar Room (Inspected 6/26/2025) Little Caesars (Inspected 6/27/2025) Pho Than Vietnamese Noodles & Restaurant (Inspected 6/26/2025) Rob Jaks BBQ (Inspected 6/20/2024) Salvation Army Red Shield Club & Food Bank (Inspected 6/26/2025) Schlumberger Bartlesville Imperial (Inspected 6/26/2025) Thirstys Drive Thru (Inspected 7/8/2025) Wingstop (Inspected 7/25/2025) This article originally appeared on Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise: Bartlesville restaurants cited in state health inspections BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A Baton Rouge woman who previously faced deportation has been reunited with her family, according to her immigration attorney. Paola Clouatre, 25, had been at the Richwood Correctional Facility in Monroe for several months. She was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in New Orleans when she and her husband went to get clarity on a deportation order. The family claimed the order was issued after Clouatres estranged mother did not attend a hearing years ago, something unknown to the Clouatres. Clouatre was released on recognizance the morning of July 28. Carey Holliday, the familys immigration attorney, said he received the news around 10:50 a.m. that day she would reunite with her family in Baton Rouge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im very relieved ICE has been able to see the light and let this person, who didnt deserve to be detained, be released, so she can address her problems and take care of her family, Holliday said. ICE raids: What are your rights when approached by an immigration officer? Last week, Adrian Clouatre confirmed to Louisiana First Investigates that his wife would avoid deportation after a judge agreed to issue a stay of removal order and an order to reexamine the case. An ICE spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment at that time. Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. By Qabil Ashirov Deputy Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Araz Azimov met with Irans Ambassador to Baku, Mojtaba Damirchilou, to discuss the current state of bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments, Azernews reports, citing local media outlets. The two officials reviewed recent dynamics in AzerbaijanIran ties, emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation. During the meeting, Ambassador Damirchilou highlighted that relations between Iran and Azerbaijan are developing on the basis of friendship and brotherhood. Both sides underscored the need to maintain cooperation rooted in mutual interests and to further strengthen diplomatic and economic ties. Novo Nordisk's (NVO) downward guidance Tuesday sent its stock diving 20%, even as new leadership remains bullish on the company's ability to maintain a market lead in the obesity drug space. The maker of GLP-1 drugs Ozempic and Wegovy cut sales grown from 13%-21% down to 8%-14% for the year. That's about half, on the higher end, of the 26% growth seen in 2024. Outgoing CEO Lars Jregensen told reporters Tuesday that the compounding, or copycat, market in the US is to blame. That is one of two key issues that appear to have taken the company by surprise. First was the shortage of both its GLP-1 drugs after they unexpectedly zoomed to popularity, creating a new weight-loss drug market. Jrgensen said that the prevalence of compounded products, which are now restricted after the FDA declared an end to the shortage, is to blame. "Despite the fact that it is now illegal ... it's still happening. And that's one of the assumptions in the prior guidance, that that would be reduced significantly. And we see, actually, that is actually the same volume as we saw earlier in the year, around a million patients using a compounded product," Jrgensen said. The compounded products include those from Novo's ex-partner, Hims & Hers (HIMS), which continues to sell the products based on a loophole in FDA rules that allows it to sell "personalized" products for patients who might have negative reactions or side effects to branded drugs such as common GLP-1 side effects like nausea or dizziness. Novo recently ended its direct-to-consumer sales deal with Hims after the telehealth firm declined to stop selling compounded semaglutide vials. The result has been a loss in the company's first-to-market position, with competitor Eli Lilly (LLY) taking a harder stance, most recently lobbying Congress to help enforce the FDA rules and rid the market of compounding. Jrgensen said Tuesday, "Ultimately, compounding will disappear. But it will take some time before it's completely out of the market and we have a fair chance of regaining our fair share (of the market)." Photo illustration of Wegovy and a weight scale. Wegovy is an injectable prescription weight loss medicine that has helped people with obesity. It should be used with a weight loss plan and physical activity. (Photo by: Michael Siluk/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) UCG via Getty Images Incoming CEO Mike Doustdar, who has served as Novo's executive vice president of international operations, said the decline of the company's stock, and therefore shareholder value, is disappointing. "I don't like it as an employee ... as a CEO-elect, and I certainly don't like it as a shareholder myself. But setbacks don't define companies, our response does," Doustdar said, adding that the guidance cut reinforces his mandate to put the company back onto a growth path. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) The Baton Rouge Police Department is looking for a woman who was reported missing in June. Police said Jacqueline Allen, 59, was reported missing on June 19. Allen is described as 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing 110 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers at 225-344-7867. Jacqueline Allen (Baton Rouge Police Department) Baton Rouge police seek woman missing since February Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) The Baton Rouge Police Department is seeking the publics assistance in locating a woman who was reported missing in February. Police said Beverly Morgan, 63, was last seen in Zion City. She was reported missing on Feb. 25. Beverly Morgan (Baton Rouge Police Department) Morgan is described as 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing 160 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 225-344-7867. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police: Woman reported missing in 2021 possibly last seen in Baton Rouge Latest News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) Baystate Medical Center has been ranked among the top hospitals in Massachusetts by U.S. News & World Report. Baystate Health names Dr. Scott Lichtenberger as Chief Operation Officer Earning the No. 6 spot on the publications prestigious 2025-2026 Best Hospitals list. The Springfield-based hospital improved its standing from last year, when it was ranked No. 7. This year, it was recognized as High Performing in 16 specialties and procedures, up from 11 in the previous report. The honor places Baystate among the 504 Best Regional Hospitals across 49 states and 95 metro areas that U.S. News says demonstrated superior patient outcomes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are pleased to see Baystate Medical Center moving up the ranks to number six in the state, said Ronald Bryant, President & COO of Baystate Medical Center. This placement is a reflection of our team members hard work and dedication to caring for our communities. We are proud to be ranked among the best in Massachusetts as we strive to achieve the best possible patient outcomes, patient safety, and optimal caregiver and patient experience. The ranking evaluates hospitals based on data covering over 4,400 facilities nationwide. Only 13% earned a Best Hospitals designation, determined by criteria such as mortality rates, complications, and nursing quality. Baystate Medical Center earned high performance marks in these areas: Abdominal aortic aneurysm repair Aortic valve surgery Back surgery (spinal fusion) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Diabetes Heart attack Heart bypass surgery Heart failure Hip fracture Hip replacement Kidney failure Knee replacement Leukemia, lymphoma & myeloma Lung cancer surgery Pacemaker implantation Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This recognition by U.S. News & World Report is a powerful affirmation of our relentless commitment to clinical excellence and high-performing care. Were not just meeting national standards were bringing that level of excellence home, right here to our community, in our own backyard, said Yvonne Cheung, MD, MPH, MBA, Chief Medical Officer, Baystate Health. Other Baystate Health facilities also earned praise: Baystate Wing Hospital was rated High Performing for heart failure and pneumonia. Baystate Franklin Medical Center was recognized for pneumonia. Baystate Noble Hospital earned high marks for heart attack care. More information about the rankings and methodology is available at U.S. News Best Hospitals. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. The Brief A Baytown man has been charged with murder after his 73-year-old father was found dead in a house fire. Clinton Hadley, 40, was arrested in Louisiana on the same day as the fire for unrelated charges before being charged with murder. The official cause of the father's death is still pending as authorities work to extradite the suspect to Texas. BAYTOWN, Texas - A Baytown man has been charged with murder after his father was found dead inside a burning home earlier this week. What we know On Monday, July 21, 2025, at approximately 4:00 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1900 block of Chilton Drive in reference to a house fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While extinguishing the fire, the Baytown Fire Department located a deceased individual inside the residence. Baytown detectives responded to the scene and immediately began investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. The deceased was identified as 73-year-old Floyd Hadley. No other injuries were reported. The official cause of death is pending the results of the Harris County Medical Examiners Office. The Baytown Police Department has charged 40-year-old Clinton Hadley with the murder of his father, both of Baytown. Dig deeper Using investigative tools such as NCIC (National Crime Information Center), a nationwide law enforcement database and Flock Safety technology, detectives were able to quickly identify and locate the suspect. A BOLO (Be on the Look Out) was entered into the NCIC system to aid in the search. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the same day as the fire, Clinton Hadley was arrested in Slidell, Louisiana, on unrelated charges. Baytown detectives presented the case to the Harris County District Attorneys Office, who then accepted murder charges against Hadley. What they're saying "From the officers who first responded to the scene, to the arson investigators with the Baytown Fire Department, to our dedicated detectives, and our partners at the Louisiana State Police and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office who assisted in the arrest. This was a true team effort," said Chief John Stringer of the Baytown Police Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Thanks to the technology used in this case, we were able to quickly identify and locate the suspect. Because of that swift coordination, another dangerous individual is now off our streets. Im proud of the professionalism and commitment shown at every level of this case." What's next Baytown Police are currently working with Louisiana authorities to have him extradited to Texas. This remains an ongoing investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available. The Source Information in this article was provided by the Baytown Police Department. In a story in the Buddhist canon, a grief-stricken mother named Kisa Gautami loses her only child and carries the body around town, searching for some way to resurrect the child. When she encounters the Buddha, he asks her to collect several mustard seeds from a family that has never experienced death. Not surprisingly, Kisa Gautami is unable to find a single such family. She buries her child and decides to cultivate a spiritual life. I thought of Kisa Gautamis story when I first encountered the 2020 Korean documentary Meeting You, in which virtual reality technology is used to reunite a grieving mother, Jang Ji-sung, with her deceased 7-year-old daughter, Nayeon. While the virtual reunion was moving to witness, I wondered whether it was truly helping the mother to heal, or whether it was deepening an avoidance of grief and of the truth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the documentary first aired, the business of digitally resurrecting the deceased has grown significantly. People are now using AI to create grief bots, which are simulations of deceased loved ones that the living can converse with. There has even been a case where an AI-rendered video of a deceased victim has appeared to deliver a court statement asking for the maximum sentence for the person who took their life. A video created with artificial intelligence shows the face and voice of a young man who died at 22 while attending Exeter University in Britain. Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images As a Buddhist studies scholar who has experienced several bereavements this year, I have turned to Buddhist teachings to reflect on how creating a digital afterlife for loved ones may inadvertently enhance our suffering, and what alternative ways of grieving Buddhism might offer. Buddhisms view on suffering According to Buddhist thought, the root of all suffering is clinging to illusions. This clinging creates karma that perpetuates negative cycles for oneself and others which endure lifetimes. In Mahayana Buddhism, the path to liberate oneself from this suffering begins by becoming a bodhisattva, someone who devotes their life to the liberation of self and others. Mahayana Buddhism, which introduced the idea of celestial bodhisattvas, is the most widely practiced form of Buddhism, particularly in East Asia and the Tibetan Himalayan regions. In the 37 Practices of All the Bodhisattvas, the 14th-century author Gyelse Tokme Zangpo wrote: The practice of all the bodhisattvas is to let go of grasping When encountering things one finds pleasant or attractive, Consider them to be like rainbows in the summer skies Beautiful in appearance, yet in truth, devoid of any substance. A digital avatar of the deceased may provide temporary comfort, but it may distort reality in an unhealthy way and intensify our attachment to an illusion. Interactions with a griefbot that responds to our every request may also diminish our memories of the deceased by creating an inauthentic version of who they were. Grief as a catalyst for compassion In the tradition of Buddhism that I specialize in, called the Great Perfection a tradition of Vajrayana Buddhism, which is a branch of Mahayana uncomfortable feelings such as grief are considered precious opportunities to cultivate spiritual insight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a text called Self-liberating Meditation, a 19th century mendicant teacher of the Great Perfection known as Patrul Rinpoche wrote: No matter what kind of thoughts arise be they good or bad, positive or negative, happy or sad dont indulge them or reject them, but settle, without altering, in the very mind that thinks. The Great Perfection contends that all of our emotions are like temporary clouds, and that our true nature is awareness, like the blue sky behind the clouds. Grief and other challenging emotions should not be altered or suppressed but allowed to transform in their own time. In a culture where we are taught that negative emotions should be eliminated or pushed aside, not pushing away grief becomes a practice of great kindness toward oneself. By cultivating this awareness of our emotions, grief becomes a catalyst for compassion toward others. In Buddhism, compassion is the seed of awakening to the truth of interdependence the fact that none of us exist as discreet beings but are deeply interconnected with all other beings and life forms. Communal rituals Compassion manifests outwardly in community rituals that process grief, such as the 49-day Buddhist service, common to the Great Perfection and other Buddhist traditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many Buddhists believe that it takes 49 days for the consciousness of the deceased to transition into their next life. During this time, the family sets up a special altar and recites prayers for the deceased, often with the support of ordained monks and nuns. Practicing generosity toward others is also recommended to accumulate merit for the deceased. These communal rituals provide much-needed outlets, time and support for processing grief and having it witnessed by others. The time and attention given to the grief process sharply contrasts to the situation in the United States, where bereavement leave is often limited to three to five days. Deepening relationship with impermanence In opting for digital avatars, we may undermine what Buddhism would consider to be critical moments for genuine transformation and connection. When I think of the family and friends who have passed away this year, I empathize with the desire to hear their voices again, or to have conversations that provide closure where there was none. Rather than turning to a technological fix that promises a reunion with the deceased, I choose to deepen my relationship with impermanence and to savor the fleeting moments that I have with those I love now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Kisa Gautamis story shows, the desire to bring back the dead is not new, but there is great benefit in allowing grief to run its course, including a felt sense of compassion for oneself and all others who have ever experienced similar forms of grief. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Elaine Lai, Stanford University Read more: Elaine Lai does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. At least 30 people have died in Beijing and more than 80,000 were evacuated to safety, Chinese authorities said, as heavy rains and floods ravage roads and houses in northern China. Eight other people died after a landslide on Monday in Chengde city, about three hours northeast of Beijing. China is dealing with a summer of extreme weather. Record heatwaves hit the country's eastern region earlier this month while floods swept the country's southwest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Against the backdrop of the massive floods in northern China, President Xi Jinping has called for "all-out" rescue efforts and told authorities to prepare for "worst-case and extreme scenarios". Floods in Beijing have submerged roads and left residents stranded [Getty Images] "No effort should be spared to search for and rescue those missing or trapped, to transfer and resettle residents in affected areas, and to reduce casualties to the greatest extent possible," the president said on Monday. Chinese authorities have allocated 200 million yuan ($28m; 21m) for recovery efforts, including repairing transportation and other infrastructure. The outskirts of Beijing, including the suburban districts of Miyun and Huairou, were hit hardest by the torrential rain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The floods have damaged dozens of roads and disrupted power to more than 130 villages. Videos show rescuers wading in chest-deep floodwaters to reach stranded residents, as well as helicopters and drones ferrying food and other aid to the disaster zone. The floods have damaged dozens of roads and disrupted power supplies [Getty Images] Ms Yang, who works in Hebei province, told BBC Chinese that she was very worried about her family, who live in Miyun district - one of the areas hit hardest by the floods. Since Sunday she had not been able to contact her parents and grandfather, who all suffer from health problems and have limited mobility. Her family had also been taking care of her pets: eight cats and three dogs. Their village is small and remote, with just around 10 households, she said, adding that she feared rescuers might miss it altogether. Out of desperation, she took to social media to appeal for rescue, hoping they would be found soon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents from flood-hit areas recalled how quickly the disaster unfolded. "The flood came rushing in, just like that, so fast and suddenly," Zhuang Zhelin, a shop-owner in Taishitun town, near Beijing, told the Associated Press. "In no time at all, the place was filling up." Zhuang's neighbour told the Associated Press that when the floods came he "just ran upstairs and waited for rescue". "I remember thinking, if no one came to get us, we'd be in real trouble," he said. Beijing is no stranger to flooding, particularly at this time of year. One of the deadliest in recent memory occurred in July 2012, when 190mm of rain drenched the city in a day, killing 79 people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This summer, floods have wreaked havoc across swathes of China. Two people were killed and 10 people went missing in Shandong province earlier this month when Typhoon Wipha struck eastern China. Two weeks earlier, a landslide killed three people in Ya'an city, southwestern China. Extreme weather, which experts link to climate change, has increasingly threatened China's residents and economy - especially its trillion-dollar agriculture sector. Natural disasters in the first half of the year have cost China 54.11 billion yuan ($7.5bn; 5.7bn), its emergency management ministry said earlier this month. Flooding accounted for more than 90% of the losses, the ministry noted. BELLBROOK, Ohio (WDTN) One local city passed an ordinance to further prohibit the sale of marijuana within city limits. The city of Bellbrook has joined the growing list of local cities to ban marijuana dispensaries as well as retail sale. City Council passed the ordinance during their meeting Monday evening. Several cities across the Miami Valley have placed moratoriums on the retail sale of marijuana products, or outright banned it altogether. This comes after recreational marijuana was legalized in Ohio through Issue 2 in November 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bellbrook previously placed a moratorium set throughout the last year, but that was only a temporary block while city leaders decided what steps to take. Bellbrooks city manager backed up their decision with research after Council Member T.J. Hoke inquired if any current businesses in the city expressed interest in operating an establishment that would sell cannabis. After reviewing all that, it appears to be in the best interest of the community to make that stance permanent, said Rob Schommer, Bellbrook city manager. City leaders say they spoke with groups advocating for marijuana, but then infrastructure came into play. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fact that the city of Bellbrook is a small, we do not have a lot of retail space, said Schommer during the meeting. Leaders agreed that finding what best contributes to the service needs of the community was part of their decision. So, considering that, it seemed to be the path likely to meet the comprehensive plan, and to meet the needs of the input of both residents and the research council was done, said Schommer. This ban only pertains to the sale of marijuana. Bellbrook residents are still allowed to grow and recreationally use cannabis within city limits. Public comment was welcome during the city council meeting Monday evening, but no one spoke in favor or opposition of the ordinance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2 NEWS is working to learn when the ordinance will take effect. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) After being taken off of the menu two years ago, Starbucks is bringing back a popular flavor for a short time. Raspberry Cream Cold Brew | Photo/Starbucks Starting July 29, Starbucks will once again offer raspberry syrup, while also introducing the Raspberry Cream Cold Brew. Unprecedented: Kings Island unveils 2026 season pass benefits Danielle Paris, worker at Starbucks Development Kitchen, said she wanted to create a new way to bring the raspberry flavor to guests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For me, raspberry is bright and refreshing, with a wonderful aroma and that sweet/tart flavor that evokes summertime, Paris said. I think it will be a fun way to customize our beverages. Although Starbucks said the raspberry flavor is beloved to customers, it is only available for a limited time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. Tuesdays Top Stories Tuesdays Five Facts [1] 1 dead, 1 injured after shooting in Bernalillo Bernalillo Police Chief Chris Stoyell said the a shooting happened at Rotary Park in Bernalillo. The first call came in about 8:39 p.m. Two people were shot. One person died, the other was taken to the hospital with injuries. The Town of Bernalillo Police Department Police Chief issued a shelter-in-place order for residents east of the Rio Grande late Monday night. That shelter in place was lifted late Monday night. [2] More info released on timeline of UNM dorm shooting Investigators say around 1:30 a.m. Friday, UNM Police responded to an alarm at Mesa Vista Hall, finding broken windows and blood. Another red flag came an hour later when UNM Hospital called the police, saying a 19-year-old said he was shot somewhere on campus but wouldnt say where. Shortly after, between 2:30 and 3 a.m. investigators say UNM Police were sweeping nearby buildings, including the Casa Del Rio dorms. Thats when officers found 14-year-old Michael Lamotte shot to death inside a room in the Gila Building, with no other witnesses to the shooting around. State police say they IDd John Fuentes as the suspect between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. and arrested him in Los Lunas by 2:30 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [3] Active weather continues through the week It will be cloudier day today with increased monsoon moisture. This afternoon storms will first develop across the mountain peaks. More showers and storms will develop this afternoon with nearly all of New Mexico having a chance of rain and thunderstorms. Rain will likely stick around parts of central New Mexico overnight before clearing up Wednesday morning. [4] Ordinance would relax rules for Safe Outdoor Spaces in Albuquerque The City of Albuquerque is supporting a proposed ordinance, relaxing the rules to set up sanctioned encampments known as Safe Outdoor Spaces. The proposal would give operators more latitude to define their own security needs. Other changes would relax the requirement for permanent, 24/7 bathrooms and showers, instead allowing alternatives like mobile trailers. [5] New Mexico launches online educator career hub The New Mexico Public Education Department is streamlining the process for those who are looking to launch their teaching career. The department launched a new online career hub called TEACHNewMexico.org. The website offers free career tools, personalized guidance from current educators and up to $100 off application costs. It also guides uses through applying for financial aid, the licensure process and testing and educator preparation programs across the state. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Public education is funded in part by the federal government, but that doesnt mean that its equal across all states, or even all school districts. Theres a good reason that the local school system is a key concern for families when relocating. Differences in state education standards and laws, differences in funding, and differences in philosophy and focus can make school effectiveness vary widely. The latest study examines all fifty U.S. states (plus the District of Columbia) and ranks their education systems from best to worst. The Top Ten States & A Regional Distinction Photo by monkeybusiness on Deposit Photos In order, from highest to lowest, the top-ten ranked states in the study are Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, Virginia, New Hampshire, Wisconsin, Rhode Island, Indiana, Maryland, and New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The northeastern United States clearly stands out for holding a large percentage of these highest rankings. Wallet Hub ranked the schools in a scoring system built on several factors, including test scores (Massachusetts, for example, has the highest percentage of students who scored a three or better on an AP exam); graduation rate among low-income students; and school safety, among others. States like Connecticut rate highly both because of test scores and student safety: Connecticut has the lowest prevalence of illegal drugs on school property, the second-lowest youth incarceration rate and the sixth-lowest share of students who have carried any kind of weapon on school property. Other states that made this top ten also rate well for fourth-grade and eighth-grade math and reading scores that stand out, student access to instructional materials, and students sense of safety in attending schools. The Ten Lowest-Ranked States At the bottom of the rankings are, from lowest-ranked up, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Alaska, Arizona, Oregon, Nevada, West Virginia, Louisiana, Alabama, and Hawaii. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Again, many factors contribute to these states having lower scores. For instance, New Mexico ranked dead last on math scores, and in a multi-way tie for worst dropout rate, with DC, Arizona, Alaska, and Idaho. Alaska, DC, West Virginia, and Arkansas also follow New Mexico closely for the worst scores in math. Some significant factors that can push a school lower in the rankings (by causing lower performance) are high student-to-teacher ratios, challenges in retaining teachers, and disparities in school districts by income level. How We Can Improve Schools Everywhere Photo by PeopleImages.com on Deposit Photos To improve education, communities, states, and the nation need to step up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parents can work with their children at home and encourage a love of learning. This is a necessary step for individual success but its far from the whole picture, especially when we see that failure isnt just happening at the personal level, but rather among school systems and districts. Communities must agree that education is valuable and invest in school systems. This can mean financial support, including tax revenue and other forms of support. For instance, I live in a school district where local churches and businesses ensure that schools have the supplies and other needs through donations. However, that support, too, isnt only financial. Communities need to show educators that they are valued and prioritize keeping schools safe. We can also press our legislators to budget teacher pay commensurate with the demands, and fight to keep schools safer. When we see significant disparities across the nation, its clear that there is work to do. By Maggie Fick and Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen LONDON (Reuters) -Novo Nordisk's new CEO Maziar Mike Doustdar has been handed the reins to turn around the Wegovy-making firm's flagging sales growth and sliding share price. He first will need to win over sceptical investors. Doustdar, an Iranian-born Austrian national who grew up in the United States, is a company man. He joined Novo in 1992 as an office clerk in Vienna, rising through the ranks to head all commercial units globally - minus the U.S. "The company needs to address recent market challenges with speed and ambition," Novo Nordisk Chair Helge Lund said in a statement on Tuesday. "Mike has a clear vision of how to unlock the full potential of the opportunities ahead." Investors aren't so sure, worried that Doustdar's lack of U.S. experience will hinder his ability to turn things around in Novo's top market and take the battle to tough U.S. rival Eli Lilly. Novo, which became Europe's most valuable listed firm after the launch of Wegovy in 2021, has seen its shares slump since mid last year, which led to the abrupt removal in May of CEO Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen. On Tuesday the shares plunged more than 20%, knocking some $70 billion off the group's market cap. "When the stock falls as much as it has, people want to see change," said Barclays analyst Emily Field, adding that her sense was that "people are not happy" with the choice of CEO because it was not a big enough renewal. "My understanding is that he has never had U.S. operational experience, and the U.S. is all that matters." Novo - once worth as much as $615 billion, and now nearer $240 billion - has faced rising competition and been hit by copycat rivals to its weight-loss drugs, especially in the critical U.S. market, which led to a sharp profit warning earlier on Tuesday. In early calls with analysts and journalists, Doustdar said that there was an "urgency" to do things differently. "I don't like it," Doustdar said when asked about the share price plunge. "I don't like it as an employee, I don't like it as a CEO-elect, and I certainly don't like it as a shareholder myself. But setbacks don't define companies. Our response does." Jefferies analysts said they were surprised by the appointment of Doustdar, noting that feedback had suggested a preference for an external candidate. "I don't see this as super positive," said Lukas Leu, portfolio manager at Bellevue Asset Management, a Novo shareholder. Markus Manns, a portfolio manager at another shareholder, Union Investment, added there was "slight disappointment". The crisis in Gaza reached new horrific levels this week as the worlds leading authority on famine and food security declared that mass starvation and death is imminent within the enclave unless Israeli forces begin allowing more aid into the Strip. In Washington, the mood among Democrats on the issue is dark. Having chained their party to support for Israel under the Biden administration, the party suffered a devastating defeat in 2024 and are now being forced to watch a resurgence on the progressive pro-Palestinian left. Despite breathless insistences to the contrary by center-left commentators, its becoming increasingly clear that the base of the Democratic Party is shifting away from the pro-Israel consensus long upheld by the DC foreign policy establishment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not just the left, either; new polling shows a generational divide across all party lines on the issue of sympathy for support of Palestinian statehood and an end to the slaughter in Gaza. Few will say it openly, but no one is denying it on the left: there has been an earthquake within the party. Zohran Mamdanis win was boosted, not slowed, by his views on Israel and Gaza according to a new poll (Reuters) The upstart victory of Zohran Mamdani in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor came amid a barrage of coverage from the mainstream media including his hometown papers, the New York Times and New York Post which often insinuated that Mamdani harbored anti-Semitic beliefs or falsely accused him of expressing them. It also rebuked the endorsements of aging Democratic would-be kingmakers Bill Clinton and James Clyburn, who issued late-game endorsements of New Yorks former governor, Andrew Cuomo. In a poll out Tuesday from the IMEU Policy Project conducted by Data for Progress, a clear portrait of the race emerges. Nearly eight in 10 New York mayoral primary voters said they believed Israel was committing a genocide in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putting aside the mayoral race entirely for a moment how does a candidate in the ideological vein of Joe Biden or Kamala Harris fare among an electorate like that? In the same poll, 63 percent of Democratic primary voters in the city supported what could easily be described as Mamdanis most hardline position on the matter of Israel-Palestine: his support for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were he ever to visit the city. A lower figure than the number that are willing to assign the term genocide to the conflict, but far from insignificant. A news article in the Jewish magazine Forward put the question plainly on Monday: After Mamdani and Gaza, are Democrats turning against Israel? Democrats in New York and across the country are quickly waking up to the rapidly shifting ground beneath them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Ritchie Torres, a Democrat and vocal critic of his colleagues in the so-called Squad, bluntly assessed that he could not win a Democratic primary for governor in the state after Mamdanis victory. Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic House Minority Leader, reportedly told allies that he doubts his ability to win the speakership with Mamdani in play. Kirsten Gillibrand, New Yorks junior US senator, issued a humbling apology to Mamdani after accusing him (falsely) of supporting jihad. The efforts to dodge what could be a historic wave of primary challenges fueled by progressive rage over the next three years are hastily getting underway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joe Bidens departure from the White House and Netanyahus close alliance with Trump make criticizing Israel a much easier prospect for Democrats. The mass starvation and shocking killings of Palestinians at aid reception areas by Israeli troops have accelerated the criticism of Israel from Washington Democrats in the past week. In the Senate, a large coalition of Democrats led by Chris Van Hollen of Maryland is urging the Trump administration to publicly break with the Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation and return to reliance on neutral international groups to provide aid. Van Hollen, who was a lonely voice for Palestinian suffering under the Biden administration, now has the backing of nearly half of his caucus. One unsurprising holdout was John Fetterman, the Pennsylvania senator and vocal supporter of Israel, including some of its most controversial war-fighting methods that have been denounced as war crimes by the International Criminal Court and others. Fetterman, up for reelection in 2028, has vultures circling him. Conor Lamb, his former primary opponent, is punching him relentlessly on social media and in a series of public appearances hes made at town hall-style events across the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lamb, who tweeted in support of destroying Hamas and supporting Israel after the October 7 attacks, lost out on endorsements from the progressive left that now despises Fetterman when they ran against each other in 2022. Another Pennsylvania congressman, a Democrat, tweeted (publicly!) that he hopes Fetterman doesnt run for president. John Fetterman is his partys loudest remaining pro-Israel hawk. Hes taking a beating for it (Getty) This past week, Lamb tweeted that he hopes Pope Leo, the first American pontiff, continues to speak against starvation and barbarity in Gaza. Members of the House are speaking out as well. Rep. Andre Carson, a Democrat from Indiana, came out in support of an arms embargo against Israel on Monday while accusing Netanyahus government of starving the population of Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Others, including Madeleine Dean, demanded another ceasefire be hammered out. Torres attacked a Republican colleague for making repeated Islamophobic remarks about Rep. Ilhan Omar, and in an interview with Chuck Todd blasted Netanyahu for doing irreparable harm to the relationship between Israel and the Democratic Party. Leadership is lagging behind but clearly feels the wind shifting: Minority Whip Katherine Clark and Jeffries released statements on Friday on the starvation, each condemning the crisis, neither one using the word Israel at any point. Even Barack Obama, hesitant as he typically is to speak out on the issue of the day in his post-presidency, put out a statement seemingly critical of Israel, writing in part: There is no justification for keeping food and water away from civilian families. The only Democrats who are being truly silent on the issue are tied directly to the former administration. Pete Buttigieg and Kamala Harris are widely seen as two of the most likely to contend for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination. Neither has issued a word about Gaza for months. Harris, also thought to be considering a run for governor of California, hasnt sat for a long-form interview this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the end it could be difficult to determine exactly how much of the stink attached to former Biden-world figures relates to Gaza, as opposed to the year(s?)-long coverup of the presidents declining faculties. One thing is for certain: something shifted in the past week, something beyond just the fallout from election of a charismatic Muslim candidate in a prominent but isolated primary race. Jul. 28WASKISH Big Bog State Recreation Area is set to host several programs throughout the month of August. 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Aug. 9: Boglands Uncovered: Exploring Nature's Mysterious Wetlands "Step onto the Bog Boardwalk and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of one of nature's most captivating landscapes on this guided tour," a release said. "This unforgettable expedition offers a rare opportunity to venture into the heart of a pristine bog ecosystem, where secrets abound and every step unveils a new wonder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Throughout the tour, the naturalist will illuminate the hidden mysteries of the bog, sharing fascinating insights into the unique flora and fauna that call this ecosystem home." The walk is wide and flat, totaling one mile long, so two miles of walking should be expected. There is no shade, so prepare for warm temperatures. The boardwalk is ADA accessible and a wheelchair is available at the park to borrow. Bring comfortable shoes and water and meet at the picnic shelter at the northern unit of the park. 2 to 3 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 9: Water Pals: Meet Minnesota's Aquatic Mammals "Get ready to dive into the wild world of Minnesota's aquatic and semi-aquatic mammals," the release said. "From the playful river otter to the hardworking beaver, we will explore the lives of the animals that call our lakes, rivers and wetlands home." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A bingo game with prizes will follow the event. Participants can meet at the visitor center. 10 to 11 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 23: Nature Stories: Eww! Critter Litter "Welcome to our enchanting nature story time, a magical experience crafted for curious minds of any age," the release said. "Immerse your little ones in the wonders of the natural world through a delightful blend of stories, crafts and other fun activities that will spark their imaginations and ignite a love for learning." The main focus of this event is to use clues to determine how different animals leave their mark on the world. Afterward, participants will search for animal signs in the park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once the event concludes, participants can spend time in the visitor center playing a myriad of games. The release urges participants to dress accordingly and to meet at the visitor center. Additionally, adults must accompany children. 1 to 2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 23: River Critters "Discover the fascinating aquatic life living in the Tamarac River," the release noted. "Get an up-close look at whirligig beetles, baby dragonflies, water boatmen and backswimmers. We may even find crayfish, leeches or turtles." The event will be held at the boat launch at the campground, where participants can visit anytime between 1 to 2 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 10 to 11 a.m., Sunday, Aug. 31: Nature Art for Kids "Let nature spark your child's imagination," the release said. "In this fun and creative program, kids will explore the outdoors and use natural materials like leaves, twigs, stones, pinecones and more to create unique art projects to take home." All ages are welcome. An adult must accompany kids. Those interested can meet at the picnic tables behind the visitor center and next to the fire tower. 1 to 2 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 31: Bug Hunt at the Beach Meet at the Beach by the Picnic Shelter. "Get ready to crawl, creep and explore," the release mentioned. "Kids will search for insects and other tiny critters in their natural habitats." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All ages are welcome. An adult must accompany kids. Those interested can meet at the picnic shelter at the beach. A valid Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is required and is $7 for a day or $35 for a year. Jul. 28Juan and Whitney Fernandez of Full Life Chiropractic in Troy were looking for new ways to invest in their community when they purchased the property at 817 Arthur Road near Dollar General in 2023. "We're both chiropractors, and we're super passionate about our community and our town and just helping people live a full life that God intended them to live," Whitney said. They started purchasing real estate in the area to diversify what they do and provide another source of income for their family. Whitney recalled someone suggesting that they look into Biggby Coffee franchising and the rest is history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The brand's veteran-friendly model and health-conscious menu aligned with their lifestyle and values. "I think something that drew us to the coffee business is that coffee is such a central piece of any type of gathering or socialization," Whitney said. What to expect Biggby Coffee's Troy location will open at 6 a.m. Tuesday, July 29. Customers can buy any hot or iced 24 oz. drink and get one free on opening day. Other specials happening throughout the week include: Wednesday, July 30: Any hot or iced 16 oz. specialty beverage is $1.99 Thursday, July 31: $1 from every drink sold will be donated to Isaiah's Place Foster Care Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Fernandez family will celebrate the opening of the coffee shop at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 1 with a ribbon cutting. Free swag will be handed out, while supplies last, to those that purchase a specialty beverage. Biggby Coffee offers made-from-scratch drinks such as cold brew, cappuccinos, hot, iced or frozen lattes, creme freezes, energy drinks with or without Red Bull and tea. Whitney's go-to beverage is the Hot Teddy Bear Latte featuring caramel and white chocolate. Juan likes the Hot Spicy Cinnamon Tea Latte made with almond milk. Grab-and-go snacks are available as well including "bragel" sandwiches, donut holes, muffins and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Providing a positive experience The Fernandez family is excited to provide 30 additional jobs to the Troy community. "Biggby's purpose is creating a life that you love, and so that's our goal is to kind of be that stepping stone, that building block for their next adventure whether they stay in coffee the rest of their life or they move on," Whitney said. She is looking forward to giving people their first job and making it a positive experience. Biggby Coffee strives to make sure every customer feels like they are valued through personalized customer service and consistent, high-quality beverages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We will see how this one goes and then lord willing, if it's in his plans and we do have the opportunity, we may look into potentially expanding," Juan said. Juan and Whitney met while attending chiropractic school in Marietta, Ga. They have been married for 13 years and moved to Troy in 2016. Whitney is a 2004 Troy Christian High School graduate. Juan grew up in Puerto Rico before moving to Pennsylvania at 13 years old. Their chiropractic office has been in practice for almost nine years. Juan is a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves, while being in practice full-time. Whitney is a full-time mom, that homeschools their four kids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ------ MORE DETAILS The Troy location is open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday with a drive-thru and walk-up window. Customers can place orders online. DoorDash is coming soon. Biggby Coffee, headquartered in East Lansing, Mich., opened its first store in 1995. Today, the national coffee brand has more than 430 locations across 13 states. For more information, visit biggby.com or the coffee shop's Facebook or Instagram (@biggby_coffee_troy_oh) pages. Comedian Bill Maher slammed the "stupid woke" during his "Club Random" podcast posted Monday, specifically referencing "The View" co-host Whoopi Goldberg's recent remarks about Iran. "That is something that, again, is infuriating about the far left, I would say. Call them whatever they wanted. Not the woke, the stupid woke, like Whoopi Goldberg, love her, but when she said a couple weeks ago that being Black was the same as being a woman in Iran, its like, yeah, in 1920, but not today," Maher said, suggesting she watch the Apple series "Tehran" to learn more on the subject. Goldberg said during an episode of "The View" that being Black in the U.S. in 2025 was essentially the same as being a woman in Iran. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maher sat down with liberal YouTube personality Brian Tyler Cohen for his latest podcast, during which they talked about the film industry and Maher's motto, "let's live in the year we're living in." Bill Maher called out the "super woke" on Monday during his "Club Random" podcast, and specifically called out Whoopi Goldberg over remarks she made about Iran. Bill Maher Says Democrats Need To 'Do Something' About 'The View' After Whoopi Goldberg's Iran Comments Cohen then brought up President Donald Trump's decision to send the National Guard to Los Angeles during the protests against ICE. Read On The Fox News App "You know, it's interesting, like I mean, look, we're in Los Angeles. There's, you know, a military force deployed in the city. And granted, you know" Cohen began. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maher cut in and said, "not on the same level at all." "No, not on the same level, of course. But you know, Ive seen them, Ive seen them in the city, and its weird," Cohen said. Maher also slammed Zohran Mamdani during the conversation, the Democratic candidate for mayor in New York City, a race that Cohen said he wasn't focusing on. Bill Maher's Guest Applauds Host's Tirade Against 'Weak And Woke' Dems Who Think America Is 'Cringe' Cohen asked Maher if Mamdani, a democratic socialist, would really have the power to usher in socialism as the mayor of New York City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He definitely has the power and influence to elect JD Vance or whoever is the Republican candidate next time. It is a walking commercial for the Republican Party nationally," Maher argued. Click Here For More Coverage Of Media And Culture Maher revealed his top three potential Democratic candidates for the next election. The comedian listed California Gov. Gavin Newsom, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel. The liberal comedian also admitted he was wrong about Trump's tariffs and their effect on the economy during the interview, saying he was incorrect to agree with assertions they would be ruinous. Original article source: Bill Maher takes aim at 'stupid woke,' slams Whoopi Goldberg's comments on Iran Political commentator Bill OReilly said Monday night that New York City residents are very uneasy in light of the skyscraper shooting in Midtown, where four people were killed, including a New York City Police Department (NYPD) officer. But in New York City, the largest and most powerful city in the country, people are very uneasy. And the reasonis because the system has collapsed, the justice system, OReilly said during his appearance on NewsNations On Balance. The former Fox News host said that he often speaks to the citys residents who tell him they are 100 percent scared of going to work and taking the subway and concerned for the safety of their kids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OReilly criticized New York Mayor Eric Adams, who is running for reelection as an independent, and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D), accusing them of not trying to solve the problem. And the legislature is insanely left-wing. So, once you have a culture of violence, which you do have in New York City, you have a culture of violence, he told host Leiland Vittert. Anything can happen at any time. The gunman, identified as Shane Tamura of Las Vegas, went into a high-rise building in Manhattan and allegedly opened fire, killing four people before taking his own life. Another person was injured in the shooting. One of the four people killed was Didarul Islam, an NYPD officer who was with the department for over three years. Islam was an immigrant from Bangladesh who was married and had two kids, His wife is pregnant with their third kid, according to Adams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was doing what he does best and all members of the police department carry out. He was saving lives, the mayor said. He was protecting New Yorkers. He also ordered flags in the citys five boroughs to be flown at half-staff in honor of the victims. Adamss fellow mayoral candidates Zohran Mamdani (D), former Gov. Andrew Cuomo who is also running as an independent and Curtis Sliwa (R) responded to the shooting, calling the incident heartbreaking. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), whose district includes parts of Brooklyn, also weighed in, condemning the shooting as tragic and horrifying. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Weather disasters in the first half of this year have cost the United States $93 billion in damage, according to a report released Tuesday by a German multinational insurance company. The analysis by Munich Re, the worlds largest reinsurer, found that more than 70% of all damage globally from weather disasters so far this year occurred in the U.S., with uninsured Americans and their local governments experiencing a whopping $22 billion in damage. The report shows the soaring economic toll that wildfires, severe storms and other extreme events are exacting in the U.S. and globally. The findings also highlight the growing insurance crisis playing out in parts of the country that are prone to frequent weather disasters. Firefighters in the growing Palisades fire on January 11. (Ali Matin / Middle East Images/AFP via Getty) We have seen some 90% of all losses for the insurance industry so 72 out of 80 billion U.S. dollars have happened in the U.S., said Tobias Grimm, Munich Res chief climate scientist. Thats extraordinary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The devastating wildfires in Southern California in January topped the list of the countrys costliest disasters in the first half of 2025. The two largest fires, which killed at least 30 people and displaced thousands more, ripped through the communities in Pacific Palisades and Altadena, fanned by strong Santa Ana winds. Munich Re estimated that the wildfires caused $53 billion in losses, including about $13 billion in damages for residents without insurance. The reinsurer said the Los Angeles-area blazes resulted in the highest wildfire losses of all time. The wildfires huge economic and societal toll was due in part to increased development in fire-prone areas. Losses are on the rise because often properties are in harms way, Grimm said. People still live in high-risk areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Urban development in hazard-prone areas can similarly drive up the cost of other weather-related disasters, such as hurricanes and flooding, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. Studies have shown that climate change is making wildfires more frequent because of warmer temperatures and worsening drought conditions. Blazes are also becoming more intense, as a result. A report released in late January from the World Weather Attribution group found that the hot, dry and windy conditions that helped the fires consume large swaths of Southern California were about 35% more likely because of human-caused global warming. Lesly Karen Cornett stands among the debris of her house outside London, Ky., on May 18. (Michael Swensen / Getty Images) Munich Res own earnings have been affected by the L.A. wildfires, as was reported by CNBC. Profits were down a total of $1.9 billion for Munich Re and Hannover Re (another German reinsurer), according to their first-quarter earnings reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other major disasters in the U.S. so far included severe storms in March that caused $6.7 billion in damage, a series of tornadoes in May that caused about $5 billion in losses, and severe storms and flooding in April that caused $4 billion in damage. Overall, severe convective storms ones that produce excessive rainfall, strong winds, tornadoes or large hail caused $34 billion in damage in the U.S. from January through June, according to Munich Re. Of that, $8 billion were uninsured losses, the company found, which included damage to roads and public schools. Outside of the U.S., a tropical cyclone that hit Australia in late February dumped heavy rain over parts of Queensland and New South Wales, causing an estimated $3.5 billion in damage. Debris in the damaged Me Nu Brick monastery on the outskirts of Mandalay, Myanmar, following the devastating March 28 earthquake. (Sai Aung Main / AFP via Getty Images) Internationally, the costliest disaster so far this year wasnt climate-related: A 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar in late March. An estimated 4,500 people died after the quake rattled the cities of Sagaing and Mandalay and surrounding areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And a magnitude-6 earthquake that struck Taiwan in January caused $1.3 billion in losses, according to Munich Re. The insurance companys report comes months after the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said it would stop tracking the economic toll of the United States costliest extreme weather events. The elimination of NOAAs Billion Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters yearly reports was seen by critics as yet another way that the Trump administration has cut back or eliminated climate science at federal agencies. A NOAA spokesperson previously told NBC News that the decision to discontinue the database was made in alignment with evolving priorities and staffing changes. Grimm said its vital to collaborate with NOAA and other government agencies to ensure that these types of reports contain accurate data. The resulting analyses can, for instance, be used by insurance companies and government officials to shape policies, and they are particularly important as billion-dollar disasters become more frequent. The probability of extreme weather is changing, Grimm said, so we need to adapt and, of course, to mitigate future losses. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) A convicted Birmingham felon was sentenced to more than five years in prison for possessing a firearm, according to U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona on Tuesday. JuaQues Mitchell, 28, was sentenced to 70 months in prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm in April. 6 corrections officers charged with assaulting inmate assaults The Birmingham Police Department observed several people sitting on top of a vehicle rolling what looked like a marijuana blunt on May 17, 2024, according to the plea agreement. Mitchell was in the drivers seat. Officers found a Glock switch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The firearm was reported stolen in Bessemer on October 15, 2023, according to the plea agreement. Mitchell was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant for a probation violation related to a 2021 attempted murder conviction in Jefferson County. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) A Birmingham school is ready to welcome students back to campus next week in part because of the Birmingham Squadron. Members of the Squadrons front office participated in a back-to-school cleanup event at Norwood Elementary School on Monday. They raked grass, trimmed trees and pulled vines off fences. Alabama doctors discuss bladder cancer after Deion Sanders announcement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Squadron General Manager Leslie Claybrook said it was a rewarding experience. We always talk about being more than 24 home games, and this is how we show and exhibit that to the community here, Claybrook said. Just a way to get out and about and give back to the community in a meaningful way. Some UAB students also assisted with the cleanup. The first day of classes for Birmingham City Schools is Aug. 7. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated. Explosions and fires were reported in Donetsk, followed by a blackout amid an alleged Ukrainian drone attack on the occupied city just before midnight on July 28. Ukrainian strike drones attacked several cities in occupied Donetsk Oblast, Russian state media reported, citing local authorities. Debris and drone fragments were found throughout the city as approximately 20 drones were shot down over Donetsk, local media reported on July 28, and just after midnight the next day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A house is reportedly on fire in the city's northwestern Kuibyshivskyi district, and a residential building was hit in Donetsk's Kyivskyi district. An office building was damaged, and an electrical substation in Donetsk Oblast was targeted in the drone attack, local media claimed. Ukraine's military has not commented on the attack, and the claims could not be independently verified. Ukraine regularly targets Russian military infrastructure in its occupied territories and deep within Russia in an effort to reduce Moscow's fighting power as it continues to wage its war. On July 22, Ukrainian drones reportedly struck the city of Novocherkassk in Russia's Rostov Oblast, while a Ukrainian official said that a railway hub used by the Russian army was targeted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amid reported Ukrainian drone attacks on Russia, a fire broke out at a train station in the village of Kamenolomni in Rostov Oblast overnight July 21. A map showing Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine's Donetsk Oblast as of 2025. (The Kyiv Independent) Read also: Investigation: Despite sanctions, American trucks are being used by Russia to launch kamikaze drones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A shooting at 345 Park Avenue on Monday evening left four victims dead. Blackstone said the real estate executive Wesley LePatner was among those killed in the NYC shooting. She was a top real estate executive there and featured on a BI power player list in 2022. Wesley LePatner, a star executive in Blackstone's real estate business, was among those killed on Monday by a gunman who entered the company's Park Avenue offices. LePatner, 43 years old, was the $1.2 trillion firm's global head of Core+ real estate and CEO of Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust, the company's juggernaut real estate fund for individual investors. Her death has left staff at the New York-based asset manager "heartbroken," the private equity giant said in a statement Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LePatner is one of four victims, including a New York Police Department officer, who lost their lives to the gunman, who has been identified by the police as 27-year-old Shane Tamura. The gunman died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound on the 33rd floor of 345 Park Avenue, a skyscraper home to major financial institutions and the NFL's headquarters. Read more of Business Insider's coverage on the Manhattan shooting. If you were a witness or have a tip to share, contact BI's reporter Natalie Musumeci at NMusumeci@businessinsider.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Words cannot express the devastation we feel. Wesley was a beloved member of the Blackstone family and will be sorely missed. She was brilliant, passionate, warm, generous, and deeply respected within our firm and beyond. She embodied the best of Blackstone," the statement continued. Real estate power player LePatner attended the elite NYC private school Horace Mann and Yale University. She joined Goldman Sachs following her graduation, where she worked for over a decade. She joined Blackstone in 2014, when its core assets portfolio, which invests in commercial properties like warehouses, office buildings, rental housing, and hotels, was a nascent investment category. She went on to help launch BREIT in 2017, which has become a major piece of the private equity firm's push to attract funds from wealthy individuals. Business Insider profiled LePatner in 2022 as a power player in Blackstone's real estate team. Back then, she said that her unit was, "for all intents and purposes, a startup." "I faced all the challenges one could imagine when building a multibillion-dollar business from hiring to ensuring standards remain high, moving quickly to keep up with growth, and staying ahead of market swings and growing pains," she said. Blackstone President Jon Gray referenced her "tremendous talent" when it was announced she would take leadership of the investment vehicle from former BREIT CEO Frank Cohen, who stepped down in January. Champion for women in finance LePatner was also involved in developing mentorship opportunities for women at Blackstone. She served as the chair for its affinity group, the Blackstone Women's Initiative. In a video interview on the firm's website, when asked if she feels there are strong opportunities for women to lead in the industry, she said, "I am a big believer of, 'if you can see it, you can be it,'" referencing her high-ranking colleagues Kathleen McCarthy, global co-head of real estate, and Joan Solotar, the firm's global head of private wealth solutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was a frequent poster on LinkedIn, cheering her coworkers on in congratulatory messages or crediting them for a job well done. Her popularity at the firm was on display in Blackstone's 2024 holiday video, part of an annual tradition that has become must-see TV on Wall Street. In a spoof of reality television, LePatner appears in a "Bachelor"-inspired skit, hoping to receive the final daisy from global co-chief investment officer Ken Caplan. In the following scene, two executives sport #TeamWesley T-shirts over their button-downs. Beyond Blackstone, LePatner was involved with a number of New York institutions, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where she was appointed a trustee earlier this year. "Wesley's extraordinary professional accomplishments were matched by her commitment to education, culture, and community," Met CEO Max Hollein said in a statement. He said she "was a brilliant and visionary leader, a generous spirit, and a person of deep intellect and warmth." LePatner also served on boards for The Abraham Joshua Heschel School and the UJA-Federation of New York. The latter honored her at its Wall Street dinner in 2023. Blackstone's Gray presented her with the Alan C. Greenberg Young Leadership Award. He spoke about her ascent in finance and her support of women on Wall Street, saying "she pays it forward from generation to generation." "Wesley was extraordinary in every way personally, professionally, and philanthropically," the non-profit said in a statement. "An exceptional leader in the financial world, she brought thoughtfulness, vision, and compassion to everything she did." She led a solidarity mission with UJA to Israel following the October 7 attack. In her acceptance remarks, she talked about the organization's "power to create a sense of community and belonging, and that ability to create a sense of community and belonging matters now more than ever." LePatner is survived by her husband, Evan, and their two children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We cannot properly express the grief we feel upon the sudden and tragic loss of Wesley," the LePatner family said in a statement. "She was the most loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, and relative, who enriched our lives in every way imaginable." "To so many others," the statement continued, "she was a beloved, fiercely loyal and caring friend and a driven and extraordinarily talented professional and colleague." Read the original article on Business Insider Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO), the Danish pharmaceutical giant renowned for its weight-loss drug Wegovy and diabetes treatment Ozempic, experienced a significant downturn on Tuesday following the companys decision to trim its 2025 financial outlook. This marks the second time this year the company has revised its guidance downwards, signaling growing headwinds in key markets. Novo Nordisk now projects 2025 sales growth to be in the range of 8-14% at constant exchange rates, a notable reduction from its earlier forecast of 13-21%. Similarly, the outlook for operating profit growth has been lowered to 10-16% from the previously anticipated 16-24%. This revised guidance largely stems from a slower-than-expected penetration of its branded GLP-1 treatments, particularly in the United States, a market increasingly impacted by the persistent use of compounded GLP-1 alternatives. Also Read: Judge Rules Mylan Did Not Infringe Novo Nordisk Patent In Wegovy Generic Case The company specifically cited lower growth expectations for Wegovy in the U.S. obesity market and for Ozempic in the U.S. GLP-1 diabetes market. Furthermore, Wegovys penetration in certain international markets has also fallen short of expectations, attributing to slower market expansion and heightened competition. In May, Novo Nordisk already lowered its 2025 guidance, reflecting lower-than-planned penetration of branded GLP-1 treatments in the U.S., impacted by compounded GLP-1s. Despite the expiry of the FDAs grace period for mass compounding on May 22, 2025, Novo Nordisk asserts that unsafe and unlawful mass compounding has continued unabated. The companys market research indicates that numerous entities persist in marketing and selling compounded GLP-1s under the guise of personalization, directly impacting Wegovys penetration within the cash payment channel. In response, Novo Nordisk has launched NovoCare Pharmacy in March 2025, which has facilitated approximately 11,000 total weekly Wegovy prescriptions, alongside an additional 20,000 weekly prescriptions in the broader retail cash channel. In the insured channel, new commercial initiatives for Wegovy launched in the first half of 2025 have not fully offset the slower market expansion and competitive pressures, leading to lower-than-anticipated penetration. To counter these challenges, Novo Nordisk is actively pursuing multiple strategies, including litigation, to safeguard patients from what it terms knockoff semaglutide drugs. This comes amid a broader industry concern, highlighted by a recent letter from over 80 bipartisan U.S. congressional members to FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, urging the agency to curb the proliferation of counterfeit and copycat GLP-1 drugs. Wesley LePatner, who rose through the ranks to become chief executive officer of Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust, died yesterday in the shooting at 345 Park Avenue. She was 43. LePatner took reins in January from the retiring Frank Cohen as chief executive of the $55 billion BREIT among the worlds largest REITs by net asset value. After graduating from Yale with a history degree, LePatner started in the real estate division of Goldman Sachs. After a decade at the investment bank she joined Blackstone in 2014 as a managing director and rose through the ranks to chief operating officer and board member of BREIT. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LePatner spoke last year about her career and being a woman in the business at a symposium of women in real estate hosted by New York Universitys Schack Institute. She said real estate was often the topic at the dinner table when she was growing up in Midtown East. My mom is a real estate attorney and my father was a bankruptcy attorney, and a lot of what they talked about in our home life was what was happening in the 80s and 90s in the real estate space, particularly in New York City, she said. You could see the way in which the evolving landscape where I lived was impacting our lives. As a young woman with a liberal arts degree, LePatner said she often felt self-conscious early in her career. Read more Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I realized about 18 months into it that I was actually approaching it in the completely wrong way, she said at the forum. I was self-conscious and insecure about those two things versus leaning into the fact that those things didnt necessarily make me different in a bad way. They actually made me different in a good way. LePatner said she worked her way up in the business by seeking out mentors, soliciting feedback from colleagues and learning to ask for what she wanted. In 2007, then-Goldman Sachs president Gary Cohn gave her and a group of female analysts advice that has stuck with her. The goal is for all of you to embrace change and get comfortable being uncomfortable because the market is about to change a lot, Cohn told them. And if youre not going to be able to change with it, its going to be really hard for you. She served on the boards of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Abraham Joshua Heschel School, The UJA-Federation of New York, and Yale University Library Council and was a member of the Advisory Board of Governors of NAREIT. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the symposium, she spoke about her life as a working mother: I had two working parents, actually, both of my grandmothers, who I was very close to work as well, so I came from a family where everyone worked outside of their home. So to me that was very normal and everyone was very focused and making sure they were excellent at what they did professionally. I think the advice oftentimes people tell other people, women and men is like when youre at work, lean into work and when youre at home, like, dont look at your phone and focus fully on your family, she said. Of course, we all want to be doing that. Theoretically, the reality is, you know, depending on the type of job youre in or depending on whats happening at home or at work, thats not always gonna be possible. And so if you approach it with that framework, you can be kinder to yourself when things dont go according to plan or when you need to be working at seven oclock because youve made the choice to come home earlier. I talk about this in front of my kids, its the way I was raised, my parents both had very demanding careers. They talked about what they were doing and why they were doing it, why it was important to take this phone call, why it was important that they had to go to this meeting. I understood the sacrifices they were making for both myself and my brother. And I think it allowed us to also have a sense of maturity about what certain types of careers look like. And Im trying to model that frankly for my two young children, who arent actually that young now any more. Through a spokesperson, LePatners family released a statement: We cannot properly express the grief we feel upon the sudden and tragic loss of Wesley. She was the most loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and relative, who enriched our lives in every way imaginable. To so many others, she was a beloved, fiercely loyal and caring friend, and a driven and extraordinarily talented professional and colleague. At this unbearably painful time, we are experiencing an enormous, gaping hole in our hearts that will never be filled, yet we will carry on the remarkable legacy Wesley created. As we begin the difficult mourning process, we extend our deepest condolences to those who have also lost loved ones, and we ask that you provide us with the privacy we need in the coming days and weeks. LePatner is survived by her husband, two children and parents. This article originally appeared on The Real Deal. Click here to read the full story. BLANDFORD He carved tools with precision and fought for a nation that barely acknowledged him. Now, Jethro Jones Revolutionary War veteran and one of the earliest known African American toolmakers will be honored with a historic marker in the town he called home. The marker, to be unveiled this October in Blandford, is the result of years of research and advocacy by local historians and descendants who sought to bring Joness story to light, said Mary Hull, the registrar of Mercy Warren Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, in a statement. A master craftsman and soldier who served in pivotal battles like Saratoga and endured the winter at Valley Forge, Jones represents a broader, often overlooked legacy of Black patriots who helped secure American independence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The dedication, sponsored by the Daughters of the American Revolution, marks a rare public recognition of an African American figure in the Hilltowns Revolutionary War history, Hull said. The dedication ceremony is scheduled for Oct. 11 at 1 p.m. at the junction of Blair Road with Jones Road in Blandford. Jocelyn Jones Arnold, a descendant of Jethro Jones and a family genealogist who helped uncover his story, will speak at the event, which is free and open to the public. The marker is part of a multi-year Revolutionary America 17751783 roadside marker series, launched by the chapter in collaboration with the William G. Pomeroy Foundation and the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The chapter reached out to Jones Arnold, who is a member of the Flag House chapter in Philadelphia, as well as the Blandford and Sheffield Historical Societies, while researching Jethro Jones life for the marker grant application, Hull said. The series aims to highlight people and places of significance to the American Revolution especially lesser-known patriots in the lead-up to the United States 250th anniversary in 2026. Jones was a free Black man born in the 1740s. He fought in both the French and Indian War and the Revolutionary War. At age 44, he joined the Continental Army in 1777 and served at important battles like Saratoga, Valley Forge and Monmouth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was honorably discharged in 1783 at West Point, with papers signed by General Henry Knox. In 1818, when he was 85, he began receiving a military pension. Jones was also one of the first known African American toolmakers. He learned the trade from Caesar Chelor, a freedman who had trained under a well-known cabinetmaker in Massachusetts. Jones lived in Blandford from the late 1700s until his death in 1828 at age 95. His legacy continued through his grandson, William Jones of Sheffield, who served in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment one of the first African American units in the Union Army during the Civil War. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, Jethro Joness signed woodworking planes are highly prized at auctions, with examples held in collections at Colonial Williamsburg and the Smithsonian Institution. Mercy Warren Chapter hopes that this historic marker will not only honor Jethro Jones, a Patriot from our district, but also bring attention to the sometimes-forgotten history of the Black community in the rural Hilltowns since the Colonial era, Hull said. Read the original article on MassLive. MESA COUNTY Colo. (KREX)- What started as a simple act of giving back turned into an outpouring of support. Jawn Fisher, whos now in remission after a two-and-a-half-year battle with Leukemia, was the inspiration behind Mondays blood drive at the Mesa County Sheriffs Office. The fisher family partnered with Vitalant to host the event for Jawn and his family, it was an opportunity to pay forward the life-saving blood transfusions and platelets that kept him alive during his treatment. The event saw strong turnout, with 25 donors and 22 units of blood. The Fisher family says every donation makes a difference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks to the generosity of donors, the blood drive was a success. While Jawns battle may be over, his mission to help others has just begun. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com. NEOSHO, Mo. A gift exchange between brothers in southwest Missouri goes awry, leading to an arrest and assault charges. Neosho authorities said they arrested Kyle Henslee, of Neosho, late Saturday night after he allegedly attacked his brother. Hes facing one count of second-degree domestic assault and one count of resisting arrest. It all stems from a rendezvous at the Neosho Burger King where Henslee was picking his brother up just before 11 p.m. that night. The victim told police he gave Henslee a recently purchased blow-up sex doll for his birthday, which reportedly provoked him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This caused an argument and a fight in the car on the way home, according to the probable cause statement. FOUR STATES CRIME At Henslees home, responding officers noted multiple small scratches and swelling on the brothers face and blood on his clothes. He told officers Henslee was still inside specifically in the attic and possibly armed with two pistols and AR-15 style rifle. Officers called Newton County Sheriffs Office for backup, plus help from their special response team. The ensuing back-and-forth standoff between officers and Henslee lasted three hours. Henslee was eventually brought into custody without incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. Attorneys for the owners and residents of a mobile home park being shuttered by Blue Island, along with the citys attorney, decided after meeting Tuesday it would be unrealistic to save the park, contrary to the residents aims. Infrastructure issues and building code violations would require significant investment to remedy, according to the residents attorney, Krisann Kuecher. Cook County Judge Eve Reilly ordered the parties to meet as part of a larger legal battle between the city and Forest View Mobile Home Park Inc., Mer-Car Corporation, Chicago Title Land Trust and Steven Dukatt, president of Mer-Car Corporation. The case will continue Aug. 13 on Zoom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While residents have advocated to save the park and even purchase it as a resident-owned mobile home park, Kuecher said there is not a viable, quick enough plan to do so. The residents will have six months to a year to find alternative housing, and any eviction actions properly initiated, she said, will be dismissed upon resident acceptance and compliance with the proposed relocation agreement. Kuecher said no rightful resident will be evicted before being given opportunity to consider and accept or reject a proposed relocation agreement, which will contain an agreement for the timeframe for relocation. Many of the mobile homes are old and unable to be moved without the risk of destroying the trailer, Kuecher said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats a significant blow to them economically, and its deterring heir future plans and their economic prospects for their families, Kuecher said. Many people, myself included, thought mobile homes were, well, mobile, that they can just move them, but thats not the case. Kuecher called the situation an affordable housing crisis for Blue Island and said the city has a political and moral responsibility to provide assistance. She said about 300 people, or about 1% of Blue Islands total population, live in the park and could soon be unhoused, according to an estimate from her recent survey of park residents. According to these surveys, residents also reported people purporting to be management or representatives of the owners renting out homes without knowledge or permission of the owners or city, and collecting rents from those residents, Kuecher said. She said the differences between the property owners estimates on the number of residents, reported at about 10 legal residents, and the residents reported numbers, at about 300, is due to issues with rental payments reported versus received. Some residents, alleged as squatters by the management company, said they have paid rent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are trying to learn more about this to ensure that the criminals conducting this fraud are prosecuted and that families who have been defrauded are not treated like squatters, but have the same protections as lawful residents, Kuecher said. In the meantime, Kuecher instructed residents to not pay rent, except as directed by counsel in the residents group to ensure this does not continue, she said. The residents are also working with the city and owners to ensure they receive adequate support for relocation. Residents expect to have a proposal by the end of the week representing the funding needed for relocation and plan to work with the owners toward negotiating a final agreement in the next few weeks, she said. While residents have previously advocated for the property to remain residential, City Administrator Thomas Wogan said Tuesday that Forest View does not have the proper zoning classification to legally operate a mobile home park and said the property is zoned as industrial and not residential. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These zoning issues dated back to 1971, he said, when the property was originally developed as a mobile home park. While the Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of a special-use permit, he said, there is no record that the City Council ever officially granted it. Wogan said the subsequent owner received a special-use permit in 1980, but there is no record of the current owner, Mer-Car Corporation, ever applying for or receiving a special-use permit. Special-use permits do not transfer with the sale of a property, meaning the current operation lacks the required zoning, said Wogan. The property managers also owe the city almost $4 million in unpaid water bills, Wogan said. In 2023, the city came close to shutting off the mobile home parks water service after the landlord did not pay $850,000 in water bills. Residents protested and received a temporary restraining order to keep the water on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In late June, Blue Island officials sent a letter to the Forest View property owners demanding the owners to cease and desist and evict residents, mainly due to unsafe conditions, calling the property a clear and present danger to the public health, safety and general welfare of the City as well as those living on and near the premises. Between June 5 and July 27, the Police Department received 30 calls concerning the mobile home property for issues such as theft, aggravated battery handgun, domestic battery, shots fired, domestic trouble or loose animals. Police were called 11 times to assist an ambulance on the property. The Fire Department was called 26 times during the same time period. As residents weigh options on moving in the next 6 to 12 months, Kuecher encouraged residents to stay informed by being involved in the residents group as they work toward a solution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said she, with the help of other residents, have collected surveys from 41 out of the residents in 85 occupied trailers in order to negotiate a relocation agreement that adequately reflects their families circumstances and needs, but need the remaining residents to complete the survey. Kuecher also said residents welcome any assistance and to contact her if an organization can provide any help to these residents in their time of need. awright@chicagotribune.com Boater charged after deadly hit-and-run crash into Florida ferry, police say A 62-year-old man is facing eight felony charges after allegedly crashing into a Florida ferry and fleeing the scene. Jeff Knight was arrested following the incident that occurred on April 27 near the Memorial Causeway Bridge in Clearwater. The ferry he allegedly struck was carrying 45 people. Police said 10 passengers were hurt in the crash and one person died. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. My body is burning. But still there is no break at all. I have to complete [my] work I am suffering [in the heat], but I have to do my job. Thats Raina, a garment worker in Bangladeshs capital of Dhaka, speaking of the extreme heat and humidity that have become an unavoidable part of the summer months. She left her coastal village 20 years ago in search of a better life. Instead, she sews pockets into jeans in a poorly ventilated, overheated factory for 10 to 14 hours a day, six days a week, for roughly 17,000 taka, or just over $139, a month, with no compensation for overtime. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Climate Rights International, a California-based human rights monitoring and advocacy organization, interviewed her last May, Raina was six months pregnant. Despite a heatwave that saw temperatures soar past 43 degrees Celsius, or 109 degrees Fahrenheit, she received no extra breaks nor reduced production targets. She described experiencing excessive sweating, headaches, vision loss, confusion, dizziness, vomiting, urinary tract infections, even loss of consciousness. Once I fainted, Raina said. It was the shock of the heat. The line chief and another worker took me to the toilet and my fellow worker put water on my head and gave me some time to lie down underneath the table. [But] there is no space to have a break, so I just lie down underneath the table. And after a little break, I started work again. When its hot and stifling, five to seven people just fall down every day in her factory, she said. But they suffer, and then they move on. Choosing to do otherwise would leave them without a job. Climate Rights Internationals report, published last week, paints a distressing portrait of what it describes as a crisis unfolding at the intersection of climate change and labor exploitation. If the uncontrollable heat wasnt excruciating enough, the systemic labor rights abuses that continue to bedevil Bangladeshs garment industry make it challenging, if not outright impossible, for its 4.1 million workers to advocate for themselves and make things easier to bear, it says. With little protection from the government, employers or fashion brands whose profits are underpinned by their laborand worsening conditions exacerbated by Bangladeshs monsoon climate and urban heat island effectworkers like Raina are emblematic of climate injustice in a nutshell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bangladesh has become the poster child for climate justice, said Cara Schulte, a researcher at UC Berkeley School of Public Healths Global Environmental Health Equity Lab and author of the report. Bangladesh, which is one of the worlds largest apparel export markets, contributes less than half of a percent of global emissions. Yet its garment workers in Dhaka and other low-income regions who are suffering from the most extreme climate impacts. The math doesnt add up. Neither does the persistent squeeze on supplier margins that results in workers laboring harder for less, Schulte said. Climate Rights International spoke to workers who described being yelled at or threatened when they slowed down or took breaks. Many were afraid to regularly quench their thirst because it would mean more trips to the bathroomthat is, if there was access to facilities in the first place. The heat and humidity can also undermine operational efficiencythe human body doesnt work as well when its struggling to keep itself aliveor result in an increased need for rest and medical care, creating a vicious cycle of abuse that makes working conditions for already vulnerable workers that much worse. Few brands include protocols for heat exhaustion in their supplier codes of conduct. Even fewer factories enforce them. The mental toll of all this isnt something that receives much attention, either. Not only can high temperatures aggravate feelings of irritability, anger and distress, leading to increased cases of interpersonal violence, but they can also fuel mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression or schizophrenia, raising the risk of suicide ideation and death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sometimes I feel really likeIm going to die like this, said Kaswar, a rickshaw worker who left his home for Dhaka because of recurrent floods. He is almost 50 years old and has never experienced such extreme heat, he said. Neither has he heard the same from his father or grandfather. Almost two months ago, one of my friends, [another] rickshaw driver, he died out of this heat stroke, he said. But still, I have to go outside, whether its too hot, or whatever it israiny or anything. Without working, I cannot maintain my family; I cannot eat anything. So thats why in that condition, we have to work. Schulte said that people often dismiss heat exposure as a purely physical issue, but the reality is so much more than that. Heat can affect every aspect of our lives, from cognitive function, to social dynamics, to income, she said. For some workers in Bangladesh, temperature can be the deciding factor in whether or not they can afford to feed their families. This holds especially true for workers who get paid on a piece rate model. A worker who would iron 60 pieces in an hour might fall to 50 when it gets insufferably hot. They could end up working extra hoursunpaidto make up their quotas, which could, again, eat into their physical and emotional well-being. Theres also a broader business case: Research by the Cornell University ILR Schools Global Labor Institute and investment firm Schroders estimated that productivity losses could see Bangladesh, the worlds second-largest exporter of clothing after China, cede $65 billion in export earningsthe equivalent of a 22 percent dropand 1 million new jobs by 2030. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Schulte believes this is a moral issue, the economic issue is certainly where well start to see tables turn, she said. Theres some new research coming out of Nicaragua, she added. Its mostly been done in agricultural workers, but it shows that workers who are allowed to have extra water, take additional breaks, use the bathroom more frequentlythings that we think are really basicwhile it does reduce the number of minutes you work throughout the day, its not by a huge amount because workers who are healthy and who have recovered and taken the time to rest are actually more productive than workers who are pushing through these extremes. Intertwined problems The problems are spiraling at a pace that makes it difficult for Bangladeshitself undergoing a period of transitional leadershipto ignore. Among the remaining International Labour Organization instruments it has yet to ratify are the Occupational Safety and Health Convention (No. 155) and the Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health (No. 187), both of which spell out important protections for workers. Interventions such as green roofs and water-based cooling might be costly, but Schulte was also surprised by how many workers said that just cold water and a couple of additional breaks throughout the day would make a difference in their lives on top of greater social protections or more accessible healthcare or childcare. We cant discount these smaller-scale solutions, and we cant discount the needs of workers, she said. A lot of these conversations about policy and solutions happen without workers in the room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schulte pointed to a Business & Human Rights Resource Center report last month that while more than half of the top 65 fashion brands it assessed have made commitments to reduce supply chain emissions by 2030, not one target involves engaging with or mitigating the impact on workers. One Solidarity Center study in Cambodia found that workers who are represented by a union are better able to manage the impacts of heat stress. Climate justice is strongly intertwined, she said, with workers rights, yet unionization rates in Bangladesh are pitifully low and many garment workers are afraid to organize because of the history of anti-union retaliation. Unpicking one issue requires addressing the othersomething that goes for brands, also. The fashion industry has climate issues on the table, but I think a lot of it has been in response to public pressure to reduce emissions and engage in these sorts of larger-scale climate commitments and conscious collections, Schulte said. And we definitely do need to reduce emissions in the fashion industry, but there needs to be adaptation and climate-proofing of supply chains, too. Education is another missing element. Workers whom Climate Rights International spoke with were largely unaware of any code of conduct provisions that some brands have included. In VF Corp.s global compliance principles, for instance, the owner of The North Face included instructions for manufacturers to avoid temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius, or 95 degrees Fahrenheit, though there are more relaxed standards for unusually hot countries, which doesnt really land, Schulte said. The standards aside, workers who reported working in factories supplying VF Corp. still said the heat was problematic enough that they sometimes collapsed on the production floor. H&M Group has been working with the ILO to develop workplace standards on heat and humidity, which it said it was going to base on local labor law. The problem, Schulte said, is that there isnt really a heat threshold in Bangladesh, which would make any guidelines tough to impose. But something the brand could do is require real-time temperature monitoring to avoid the classic manipulation of third-party audits, where people go in and take a temperature at 5 a.m. when its really cold, and then say, Oh, its fine. Even adding a refrigerator to every factory would not be expensive for many buyers and would markedly improve the quality of life for workers, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brands cant push off their responsibility, Schulte said. I think that there is a clear path forward under international law by which corporations do have a responsibility to make sure that there are not human rights abuses in their supply chains. And under the Paris Agreement, high-income countries have a responsibility to provide support to developing nations to help them adapt to climate change. That includes providing financial resources to help workers in countries like Bangladesh cope with rising temperatures and extreme heat. At the same time, the countrys garment sector is long overdue for a labor reckoning. Were going to need to see upskilling. And I do think that the minimum wage is one huge issue, she said. Workers who live in extreme poverty feel that they have no other option, and so thats why theyre stuck in these situations where theyre working in terrible conditions and afraid to speak out because they need the money. And right now, you have brands in the global North demanding cheap clothing and fast turnaround timelines, and we heard from workers that when supervisors feel stressed about what brands are asking, that stress transfers onto workers and that they have to work more hours for less pay. Or told to pray for better conditions. We tell the authority [that the fans are] inadequate, but they do not install additional fans. Rather, our authority tells us that you should pray to Allah for better weather, said Saira, a relatively new garment worker who is only starting to realize what her job physically requires of her. [I am] always standing, she said. There is no scope for sitting. When my work is over, then I can sit. NEED TO KNOW A body was found in a California lake over the weekend while authorities were searching for a missing teen Nicholas Magana-Zamora, 15, was last seen leaving his home in Watsonville days earlier No foul play is suspected, officials said after conducting an extensive search Days after a teenage boy disappeared, officials believe they have found his body in a California lake. Nicholas Magana-Zamora, 15, was last seen leaving his home in Watsonville around 11 a.m. local time on Wednesday, July 23, according to an alert from the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After extensive search efforts that commenced the next day, a body was discovered in College Lake in Santa Cruz County in the late morning hours of Sunday, July 27, the sheriff's office said in a statement shared with PEOPLE. Although an official identification of the body remains pending, the search and rescue team said they located enough evidence to conclude that the body likely belongs to Magana-Zamora, Sgt. Jacob Pruger of the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office told KION. Additional details have not yet been publicly shared but officials say no foul play is suspected. At the time he was seen leaving his home, the teen was seen sporting a gray shirt, green jacket, jeans and riding a multi-colored mountain bike, according to the sheriff's office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His bike, phone and shoes were later found near the shore of College Lake, which is about one mile northeast of Watsonville. Search and rescue teams, who had been scouring the area, also located footprints going in and out of the lake, according KSBW. The Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency College Lake near Watsonville, Calif. College Lake near Watsonville, Calif. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. After his body was found, Luis A. Alejo, a Monterey County supervisor, paid tribute to the young man. This is very tragic news, he wrote in a Facebook post. My deepest condolences to the family of Nicholas Magana-Zamora. May he rest in peace and may God give his family strength! Read the original article on People Richard Dawson failed to return from a planned walk of the Five Sisters of Kintail [Police Scotland] The body of a man has been found during searches for a missing hillwalker in the West Highlands, police have confirmed. He is yet to be formally identified, but the family of 61-year-old Richard Dawson, who had been reported missing in the Glen Shiel area on Saturday, has been informed. The body was found in an area below the ridge of the Five Sisters of Kintail at about 16:00 on Monday. Police Scotland said there were no apparent suspicious circumstances and a report would be submitted to the procurator fiscal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Dawson had booked accommodation in the area but never turned up. Police said his car was later found in Glen Shiel. Both Kintail Mountain Rescue Team and a coastguard helicopter were involved in the search operation. WILDER, Ky. (FOX 56) The body of a minor was recovered from the Licking River early Tuesday morning, according to Wilder police. According to a release, police confirmed that rescue crews were called around 4:15 p.m. on Monday after receiving word about a possible drowning. Witnesses claimed that, around halfway across, the minor began struggling before going underwater and never resurfacing. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the release, the body was pulled from the river around 5:45 a.m. after a search that spanned over 13 hours. The minor was said to have tried to swim from the Covington side of the river to Wilder to join two others swimming in the river. Due to the drowning victims age, no additional information will be released at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. We recently published These 10 Stocks are Winning Big. PagerDuty, Inc. (NYSE:PD) is one of the best-performing stocks on Monday. PagerDuty rallied for a second day on Monday, adding 7.06 percent to close at $16.83 apiece as investors took heart from an analyst upgrade and news that it was exploring a sale. In its market note, investment firm TD Cowen raised its price target and recommendation for PagerDuty, Inc. (NYSE:PD) to $22 from $17 and to buy from hold previously. This followed a report by Reuters on Friday, quoting sources privy to the matter, that PagerDuty, Inc. (NYSE:PD) was exploring a potential sale after receiving interest from buyers. Reuters said PagerDuty, Inc. (NYSE:PD) is currently working with Qatalyst Partners to facilitate the potential acquisition, and that investment bankers are now soliciting further buyer interest. PagerDuty (PD) Climbs 7% on Analyst Upgrade, Sale Reports Copyright: stokkete / 123RF Stock Photo According to TD Cowen, Qatalyst Partners has a strong track record of facilitating software mergers and acquisitions, adding that many of its facilitated transactions resulted in sales over the years. PagerDuty, Inc. (NYSE:PD) is a California-based software maker that helps businesses monitor their IT systems and respond to cyber incidents and outages. While we acknowledge the potential of PD as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an extremely cheap AI stock that is also a major beneficiary of Trump tariffs and onshoring, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. The Department of Justice has filed an official complaint alleging misconduct by US District Court Chief Judge James Boasberg. Fox News has reviewed the complaint which was written by Attorney General Pam Bondis Chief of Staff Chad Mizelle and addressed to the Chief Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, Sri Srinivasan. Fox News has learned that the complaint was written and filed at the direction of Attorney General Pam Bondi. Who Is James Boasberg, The Us Judge At The Center Of Trump's Deportation Efforts? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Department of Justice respectfully submits this complaint alleging misconduct by U.S. District Court Chief Judge James E. Boasberg for making improper public comments about President Donald J. Trump to the Chief Justice of the United States and other federal judges that have undermined the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary," says Mr. Mizelle. Judge Boasberg is presiding over a high-profile case involving the deportation of several migrants to El Salvador and has talked about holding DOJ lawyers in contempt because of his assertion that his order to turn airborne planes around was not followed. President Trump has also made critical comments about Judge Boasberg. The Justice Department, headed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, has filed an official complaint regarding US District Court Chief Judge James Boasberg. The complaint details two occasions on which Judge Boasberg made comments the Justice Department alleges undermine the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "On March 11, 2025, Judge Boasberg attended a session of the Judicial Conference of the United States, which exists to discuss administrative matters like budgets, security, and facilities. While there, Judge Boasberg attempted to improperly influence Chief Justice Roberts and roughly two dozen other federal judges by straying from the traditional topics to express his belief that the Trump Administration would "disregard rulings of federal courts" and trigger "a constitutional crisis." Although his comments would be inappropriate even if they had some basis, they were even worse because Judge Boasberg had no basisthe Trump Administration has always complied with all court orders. Nor did Judge Boasberg identify any purported violations of court orders to justify his unprecedented predictions." Trump Foe Boasberg Orders Doj To Detail Status Of Cecot Migrants Sent To Venezuela This is the second time the Bondi DOJ has filed a complaint against a federal judge. "Within days of those statements, Judge Boasberg began acting on his preconceived belief that the Trump Administration would not follow court orders. First, although he lacked authority to do so, he issued a temporary restraining order preventing the Government from removing violent Tren de Aragua terrorists, which the Supreme Court summarily vacated. "Taken together, Judge Boasbergs words and deeds violate Canons of the Code of Conduct for United States Judges, and, erode public confidence in judicial neutrality, and warrant a formal investigation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Boasberg Orders Rubio To Refer Trump Officials' Signal Messages To Doj To Ensure Preservation The complaint details two occasions during which Boasberg allegedly made comments undermining the judiciary's integrity and impartiality. The DOJ is asking Chief Judge Srinivasan to refer the complaint to a special investigative committee as an inquiry is essential to determine whether Judge Boasbergs conduct constitutes "conduct prejudicial to the effective and expeditious administration of the business of the courts." The complaint also asks that Judge Boasberg be taken off the case involving Venezuelan migrants who were deported to El Salvador, "to prevent further erosion of public confidence while the investigation proceeds." The case in question is J.G.G. v Trump. This is the second time the Bondi DOJ has filed an official complaint against a federal judge. In late February, the DOJ filed a complaint about US District Judge Ana Reyes, concerning what the DOJ calls Judge Reyes "misconduct" during the proceedings in Nicolas Talbott et al. v. Donald J. Trump et al., which is a case brought by two LGBTQ groups challenging the Trump Administrations Executive Orders barring transgender individuals from serving in the US military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News of the complaint comes at a time when the Trump administration has excoriated dozens of so-called "activist" judges who have blocked or paused some of Trump's sweeping executive orders from taking force in his second White House term. Judge Boasberg in particular found himself at the center of Trump's ire and attacks on so-called "activist" judges this year, following his March 15 temporary restraining order that sought to block Trumps use of the Alien Enemies Act to quickly deport hundreds of Venezuelan nationals to El Salvador. Boasberg had ordered all planes bound for El Salvador to be "immediately" returned to U.S. soil, which did not happen. Who Is James Boasberg, The Us Judge At The Center Of Trump's Deportation Efforts? WASHINGTON, DC- Judge James E. Boasberg, chief judge of the Federal District Court in DC, stands for a portrait at E. Barrett Prettyman Federal Courthouse in Washington, DC on March 16, 2023. (Photo by Carolyn Van Houten/The Washington Post via Getty Images) His emergency order touched off a complex legal saga that ultimately spawned dozens of federal court challenges across the country though the one brought before his court on March 15 was the very first and later prompted the Supreme Court to rule, on two separate occasions, that the hurried removals had violated migrants' due process protections under the U.S. Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boasberg, as a result, emerged as the man at the center of the legal fallout. Trump administration officials have repeatedly excoriated Boasberg both for his order and his attempt to determine whether they acted in good faith to comply with his orders, and Trump himself has floated the idea that Boasberg could be impeached earlier this year prompting Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts to issue a rare public warning. The complaint, focused on months-old behavior and allegations surrounding Judge Boasberg first tapped as a judge by then-President George W. Bush in 2002, comes at a time when he could again have a say in a major class action case brought by lawyers representing the former CECOT migrants. Lawyers for the ACLU and others in the class asked Judge Boasberg earlier this month to reopen discovery in the case, citing allegations from a United Nations report regarding custodial status of migrants at CECOT, and the recent decision to remove the 252 migrants sent from the U.S. to El Salvador to Venezuela under the prisoner exchange. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked at a status hearing in court last week whether the Justice Department would comply with the court's orders, DOJ lawyer Tiberius Davis said they would, "if it was a lawful order." They also said they would likely seek an appeal from a higher court. In April, Judge Boasberg also ruled that the court had found "probable cause" to hold the Trump administration in contempt for failing to return the planes to U.S. soil, in accordance with his March 15 emergency order, and said the court had determined that the Trump administration demonstrated a "willful disregard" for his order. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit stayed his original motion in April, and has yet to move on the matter. Original article source: Bondi DOJ files complaint alleging misconduct by Federal Judge James Boasberg DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is welcoming a brand-new resident. Meet Kevin the sand cat. Sand cats are a rare feline species known for hunting and roaming deserts. They diverged from what would become the common housecat at least a million years ago, though some evidence points to a divergence as early as 6 million years ago. Kevin does have a somewhat softer side as he will curl up on cat beds and play with toys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aug. 2 is the first day you will be able to see him. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. Senate Democrats are seeking clarification about whether there is an ongoing investigation into Justice Department official Emil Bove after three different whistleblowers came forward with information ahead of his confirmation vote for a lifetime appointment to the bench. The request from Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) comes as a third whistleblower filed a complaint against Bove, alleging the nominee misled the Senate Judiciary Committee. Bove, previously one of Trumps personal defense lawyers, serves in the No. 3 role at the Justice Department and has been nominated to sit on the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals. After clearing an initial procedural hurdle, a vote on his nomination could come as soon as Tuesday night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schiff and Booker ask the Justice Departments office of inspector general to confirm for lawmakers whether they have ignited an investigation into Bove. As the Senate approaches a final vote this week on Mr. Boves nomination to serve as United States Circuit Judge for the Third Circuit, it is imperative that Senators exercise their constitutional duty of advice and consent with full knowledge of Mr. Boves actions, they wrote. We therefore request that you clarify for Senators whether your office is undertaking any investigations of or related to Mr. Bove. In the event these whistleblower complaints and other reports have not already prompted investigations by your office, we urge you to undertake a thorough review of these disclosures and allegations. They argue the three different whistleblower complaints paint a picture that Mr. Bove likely violated laws and Department regulations, and abused his authority while acting as one of the Departments most senior officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to The Washington Post, a third whistleblower has forwarded new allegations about Boves role in ending the prosecution of New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D) on bribery charges. Prosecutors who worked the case refused to drop the charges and sign onto the dismissal notice, prompting a wave of resignations. Bove said during his confirmation hearing that the Trump administration needed Adamss cooperation on immigration matters, prompting cries from Democrats that the move was a clear quid pro quo. Policy reasons made it appropriate to drop the charges, Bove said at the time. He has already been accused by whistleblower Erez Reuveni of suggesting the Justice Department defy any court orders blocking the Trump administration from deporting migrants to a foreign prison under the Alien Enemies Act, saying the Justice Department might have to tell the courts f you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A second whistleblower has stepped forward with information they say corroborates Reuvenis allegations. A judge has since begun a probe into whether the Justice Department defied his order to halt or turn around flights carrying Venezuelan men deported under the Alien Enemies Act, finding probable cause to hold the Trump administration in criminal contempt for willfully disobeying his order to immediately halt deportations. Bove has said he could not recall whether he used the expletive but said during his confirmation hearing that he certainly conveyed the importance of the upcoming operation. Details are scarce on the third whistleblower complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A new whistleblower, whose disclosures have not been publicized, has strong evidence that Emil Bove was not truthful to the Senate Judiciary Committee during his confirmation hearing for his nomination to serve on the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, Peter Carr, a spokesperson for Justice Connection, said in a statement. A Justice Department alumni group that assists whistleblowers, Justice Connection was asked to release a statement on the whistleblowers behalf. The whistleblower has tried to share this information with Republican senators for weeks and they have not provided any response. We urge the senators to hear from this whistleblower before the final vote on his nomination. The Justice Department did not respond to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement GOP members have not stopped by Bookers office to review the documents provided by the latest whistleblower, the Post reported. Committee members asked Bove questions on a number of topics. Beyond whether he encouraged defiance of court orders, he was also asked about leading the effort to fire prosecutors who worked on Jan. 6 cases and collecting a list of FBI agents who worked on investigations into rioters. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) backed Bove out of the committee, saying that he will not confirm those who condoned Jan. 6 but that he did not feel the nominee had done so. Bove advanced after an initial round of voting in which Sens. Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) and Susan Collins (Maine) were the only GOP members to vote against him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats previously demanded a hearing with Reuveni, but the panels Republicans blocked it. Another whistleblower has come forward with evidence that raises serious concerns with Emil Boves misconduct, said Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee. This is another damning indictment of a man who should never be a federal judge and Senate Republicans will bear full responsibility for the consequences if they rubber stamp Mr. Boves nomination. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. NEED TO KNOW Ke'Torrius Starkes Jr. was killed after being left inside a car for five hours amid triple digit temperatures He was under the custody of the Department of Human Resources in Birmingham, Ala., when he died Police called the death an "accident" after the boy was forgotten by the state contractor transporting him The death of an Alabama toddler who was left inside a hot car for hours was "forgotten" by a state contractor, police reportedly said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ke'Torrius Starkes Jr. in Birmingham, Ala. had been in foster care when he died and was being "transported" to a visit with his father by a Department of Human of Human Resources contractor when he died, the department previously confirmed to PEOPLE. He was allegedly left in a car for five hours in the afternoon as temperatures hit triple digits in Alabama, police said, WVTM13 reported. Speaking to NBC News, Birmingham police Sgt. Laquitta Wade called the incident an accident. "At this time, the only thing that I can say is that we believe it [the childs death] was accidental," Wade told NBC News, saying that a contractor had "forgotten that the child was in the vehicle." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police previously told PEOPLE that the contractor, who has since been terminated, has been cooperative with the investigation. Related: 3-Year-Old Boy Dies After Being Left in Hot Car While with Child Services, Which Took Him Away from His Family Wade further told the outlet that any charging decisions would be made by prosecutors. Ke'Torrius' family lawyer Courtney French said in an interview with PEOPLE, "Had he been with his parents, nothing like this would have ever occurred." Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. French told PEOPLE a DHR contractor was taking Ke'Torrius, who was in temporary foster care, to his daycare around 11:30 a.m. after a supervised visit with his biological father. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf However, the woman then allegedly left him in the car and went shopping for her family, French said. Once the DHR contractor returned to their own residence, she allegedly left Ke'Torrius in the car for five hours. "This is a parent's worst nightmare. Our baby should be alive," the child's parents said in a statement through French, per the outlet. DHR previously told AL.com that the contract provider has since terminated the employee. If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or go to www.childhelp.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages. Read the original article on People NEED TO KNOW A 29-year-old Google software engineer is dead after she was hit by a branch while hiking in Yosemite National Park on July 19 She was with two friends and her boyfriend, who immediately administered CPR "We lost a loved and respected member of our team," a Google spokesperson tells PEOPLE A man is mourning his 29-year-old girlfriend, Google software engineer Angela Lin, after she died in a freak accident while they were hiking in Yosemite National Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Saturday, July 19, Lin, boyfriend David Hua and two friends had stopped to look at giant sequoias along Tuolumne Grove, a popular hiking trail, when there was a loud cracking sound, Hua told SFGate, the first outlet to report on Lin's death. Two to three seconds later, branches fell out of the sky, said Hua, who did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment. One big branch struck Angela, and then there were a bunch of smaller ones directly behind me. When the man opened his eyes, he saw his girlfriend on the ground as blood pooled around her head. While Hua called 911 and performed CPR until a park ranger was able to assist, he said that emergency responders told him that Lin most likely died as soon as she was struck by the branch, SFGate reported. In a statement shared with PEOPLE, the Tuolumne County Sheriffs Office says a report was received that Saturday around 5:50 p.m. local time of "a fatal incident in the Tuolumne County portion of the park involving a hiker who had been struck by falling portions of a tree." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators from the coroner division of the sheriff's office then responded to the Mather Ranger Office to take possession of the victim's body, which officials confirm was Lin. Her death was ruled accidental and a result of "blunt injuries," the sheriff's office said. A spokesperson for Yosemite National Park says an investigation into the incident is ongoing and no further information is available. Lin first joined Google in 2022, and previously worked as an engineer at Salesforce for more than two years, according to her LinkedIn profile. She graduated with her bachelors degree in electrical engineering and computer sciences from the University of California, Berkeley in 2017, before earning her masters degree in computer science from The University of Texas at Austin two years later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We lost a loved and respected member of our team," a Google spokesperson tells PEOPLE in a statement. Were very saddened by this tragedy and our hearts are with their family and loved ones. A memorial service will be held later for family and loved ones. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories Now, Lins boyfriend and family are left to remember the young woman, who loved swing dancing, singing and being in nature, SFGate reported. It was just unimaginable that something like this could occur, said Hua, later adding, "no words can describe the shock and grief we are all experiencing." Read the original article on People The Inn at Boynton Beach is one of the first buildings drivers see when exiting Interstate 95 onto Boynton Beach Boulevard. Boynton Beach officials consider this aging hotel an eyesore and plan to demolish it. To do that, the city must buy the property as part of its plan to redevelop the area and raise the citys profile. Newly elected Mayor Rebecca Shelton negotiated a proposed $8 million deal with property owner Ajit Asrani during the July 25 Community Redevelopment Agency special meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youve been doing wonders with it since youve been present on the property, but looking back, it has been such a burden, and it does suck up our resources for that neighborhood with the police, Shelton said to Asrani. So it would be nice to change this property into something that made the town beautiful. No offense to your property. Access The Palm Beach Post on the go with the app: Our app offers a personalized experience to your liking. Download our app to personalize your news alerts, swipe and scroll through stories faster, and bookmark them to save and read later. Shelton and Asrani also agreed on a 45-day closing, but its not final yet. The Boynton Beach CRA Board has to approve the deal at the next meeting Aug. 12. Asrani calls this deal a poor investment, as he bought the building in 2012 for nearly $4 million. And he feels that doubling his money isnt much of a return. Despite this, he actively wanted to sell this property and was open to the citys offer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am stretching myself. I understand you have a duty to taxpayers to get the best possible deal, said Asrani, who was pushing for $9 million. Shelton was at $7 million, and they met in the middle after discussion. Boynton has big plans to redevelop the land west of Seacrest Boulevard Newly elected Boynton Beach Mayor Rebecca Shelton negotiated a proposed $8 million deal to purchase the Boynton Inn from property owner Ajit Asrani. City officials are focused on this 2.11-acre site, one of the largest pieces of land available for redevelopment west of Seacrest Boulevard. The city has plans to revamp the Boynton Beach Boulevard District and the corridor stretching from The Inn to the Florida East Coast Railway tracks. In past board meetings, city officials pushed for these redevelopment plans to make the city more commercial and livable. This corridor in particular has extra traffic. It leads from the interstate to the Downtown District, which features spots such as the public beach and the library. The citys redevelopment plans include widening sidewalks, adding bike paths and on-street parking and improving pedestrian crossing zones. The district plan notes that the current conditions of the three intersection crosswalks make it difficult for residents to navigate: Pedestrians must walk several blocks in order to cross the Boulevard. The plan also proposes additional intersection enhancements such as directional signs, public art, new pavement and landscaping to make the area more appealing. These upgrades aim to create a stronger first impression of the city and attract more visitors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are no destinations along the corridor to attract the interest of visitors or residents other than City Hall and the Post Office. The majority of the businesses belong to the small service industry with few employees. The buildings are outdated, being constructed from the 1930s to the 1970s, the plan says. The four-story Inn at Boynton Beach was built in 1981 Windows show the age and deterioration of the Boynton Inn. Ajit Asrani bought the building in 2012 for nearly $4 million and is now selling the property to the City of Boynton Beach for $8 million. The Inn, which once operated as a Holiday Inn, sits at the southeast corner of Boynton Beach Boulevard and Interstate 95. Built in 1981, the four-story hotel is visible from the interstate, with chipped blue-gray siding, a faded parking lot and rusty exterior AC units. Suraj Dalal of Kabani Hotel Group, a hospitality brokerage firm, virtually attended the negotiation meeting as the representative for The Inn property. Dalal said in an interview that the hotel is replaceable because of its age and condition. I think the location has a large part to do with (the city wanting to purchase the property). But the condition of the hotel is well, it needs work. Its not a Class A building by any means, Dalal said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dalal said the city was lucky to land the deal at that price. Shelton said during the negotiation that the demolition would cost the city about $1 million. There are no current plans or timeline for redevelopment of the property, but the land has potential for multiple types of development. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Boynton strikes initial deal to demolish The Inn at Boynton Beach HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (WSPA) An investigation is underway after a man was accused of sexually assaulting a child at a Boys & Girls Club location in Hendersonville. On Monday, the Hendersonville Police Department responded to Pardee Hospital in reference to a report of a child sexual assault. A nine-year-old reported to authorities that they had recently been sexually assaulted at the Boys & Girls Club by an employee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers have identified the suspect but did not share their identity at this time. Police said no additional information is available while officers are actively investigating the allegation. 7NEWS will continue to update this story as more information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. The NYPD officer shot and killed by a deranged gunman inside a Midtown Manhattan skyscraper Monday was identified as a hero dad and nearly four-year department veteran whose wife is about to give birth to their third child, officials and sources said. Married father of two Didarul Islam, 36, was remembered as a dedicated family man who loved putting on the uniform after he was senselessly murdered by 27-year-old Shane Tamura inside 345 Park Ave., somber city leaders said during a press conference. He was doing what he does best and all members of the police department carry out, he was saving lives, Mayor Eric Adams said at a late Monday press conference. Didarul Islam NYPD He was protecting New Yorkers. Hes an immigrant from Bangladesh, and he loved this city, and everyone we spoke with stated he was a person of faith and a person that believed in God and believed in living out the life of a godly person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Islams wife is eight months pregnant and the couple had two young boys, according to officials and sources. Islam had been on the force since December 2021 and worked out of the 47th Precinct in the Bronx. He was off duty Monday working as security for Rudin Management Company in the building, but was in NYPD uniform, sources said. Here is the latest on the NYC mass shooting: Islam, 36, was a father of two. Obtained by NY Post Suspected shooter Shane Tamura seen in surveillance video before the shooting Monday. Obtained by NY Post He was doing the job that we asked him to do. He put himself in harms way, he made the ultimate sacrifice shot in cold blood, wearing a uniform that stood for the promise that he made to the city, he died as he lived: a hero, said an emotional New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to extend my profound sympathies to all of the victims and their families and to the brave NYPD cops who today lost a brother, she continued. Family and friends of Didarul Islam, who was shot and killed by a gunman Monday evening. AP Front cover of the New York Post on July 29, 2025. Three other civilians were fatally shot in the bloodbath and one more was injured. The surviving victim is in critical but stable condition, authorities said. Tamura barricaded himself inside the skyscraper and was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on the 33rd floor, sources said. Follow The Posts live blog for the latest coverage of the 345 Park Ave. shooting He traveled nearly across the country before reaching the city and strolling up to the building with a rifle, Tisch said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PBA president Patrick Hendry called the deadly shooting a devastating night for the city and police department. The ambulance carrying the body of slain NYPD officer Didarul Islam exits New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Hospital. AP Cops on the scene of the shooting Monday evening after five killed. James Keivom NYPD officers direct building occupants away from the scene of a shooting where a police officer was killed and at least five others were shot at 345 Park Avenue in Midtown, Manhattan. William Miller He was a hardworking police officer who was proud we know from hearing from his family to put on that uniform and shield of a New York City police officer, Hendry said. Every day, he went out and did his job, and he went out every single day to provide for his family, whether it was overtime or whatever he had to do to provide for this family. A new law in Brazil could cause "significant environmental harm and human rights violations", and represents a "rollback for decades" of protections in Brazil, including for the Amazon, a UN expert has told BBC News. Plans to speed up approvals for development projects were criticised by Astrid Puentes Riano, a UN special rapporteur, as the country prepares to host the COP30 climate summit this year. Lawmakers passed plans to simplify environmental licences for infrastructure including roads, dams, energy and mines this month, though the president has not formally approved the bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics have dubbed it the "devastation bill" and say it could lead to environmental abuses and deforestation. Proponents say a new nationwide licensing regime would simplify the long and complex process that companies face to prove to authorities that planned developments do not cause unacceptable environmental harm. Under the changes, some developers would be able to self-declare their environmental impact through an online form for projects deemed smaller - a move supporters say would reduce bureaucracy but critics feel is a major concern. Ms Riano told the BBC she feared the lighter regulations would "apply to some mining projects" and will "impact the Amazon region". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also said was "very worried" about plans for automatic renewal of some projects' licences where no major changes have occurred, saying: "This will prevent environmental impact assessments from being done on these projects. Some of the projects will include mining projects or infrastructure projects where a full assessment is needed. "It will also cause deforestation. Modifications or continuations of projects might mean deforestation in the Amazon without a proper assessment." A lot of deforestation and land-clearing in the Amazon has been driven by agriculture and mining, sometimes illegally - but Ms Riano said the bill is "going backwards" on efforts to prevent that. Her intervention comes two months after new analysis was published showing vast swathes of the Amazon were destroyed in 2024, with forest fires fuelled by drought adding to man-made deforestation pressures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the new law, environmental agencies would have 12 months - extendable to 24 - to make a decision about whether to grant a licence for strategic projects. If that deadline was missed, a licence could be automatically granted. Supporters say this would give businesses certainty by preventing delays that have plagued projects, including hydroelectric dams for clean energy, or rail lines to transport grain. Ms Riano said she understood the need for more efficient systems but assessments must be "comprehensive" and "based on the science." The law would also relax the requirement to consult indigenous or traditional quilombola communities - descendents of Afro-Brazilian slaves - in some situations unless they are directly impacted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UN experts raised concerns that fast-tracking assessments could remove some participation and affect human rights. Supporters of the bill say it will encourage economic development, including for renewable energy projects, held to grow the economy, and reduce costs for businesses and the state. But critics fear weakening environmental protections could increase the risk of environmental disasters and violate indigenous rights. In particular, UN experts argue it could contradict constitutional rights guaranteeing the right to an ecologically balanced environment - which means legal challenges could lie ahead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Senate and Chamber of Deputies have approved the bill and it is now pending presidential approval. President Lula da Silva has until 8 August to decide whether to approve or veto the new law. Brazil's Environment and Climate Change minister, Marina Silva, has strongly opposed the bill, condemning it as a "death blow" to environmental protections. But she has been at odds with the president on other issues in the past, including proposals to explore oil drilling in the Amazon basin. Even if the president vetoes it, there is a chance the conservative-leaning congress could try to overturn that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brazil's Climate Observatory has called the bill the "biggest environmental setback" since Brazil's military dictatorship, in which the construction of roads and agricultural expansion led to increased Amazon deforestation and the displacement of many indigenous people. Ms Riano said scientists in Brazil estimate the bill "will lift protections for more than 18 million hectares in the country, the size of Uruguay," adding "the consequences are huge". At least one police officer and at least one civilian has been shot at the incident inside of a building on Park Avenue in New York City as a result of an active shooter incident, two senior NYC officials say. MSNBC national security analysts Rob D'Amico and Christopher O'Leary join The Weeknight to break down the latest. Fintech giant PayPal launched a new payment option on Monday that will let smaller U.S. merchants accept more than 100 cryptocurrencies, including mainstays like Bitcoin and Ethereum but also zanier options like Trumps memecoin and even the novelty token Fartcoin. Any U.S. business using PayPals online payments processing platform can opt in, said a spokesperson. PayPal will charge merchants a promotional fee of 0.99% on transactions for the first year and then up the charge to 1.5%, Frank Keller, an executive vice president, told Fortune. Those fees are less than the 1.57% average rate that U.S. businesses paid to credit card companies in 2024, according to the Nilson Report. Theres a worldview where you can imagine that the world is moving on chain, said Keller, referring to putting data on blockchains. Is that happening overnight? No. Some people say long time periods. Other people say very short time periods. I think we will see movement. To settle the transactions, PayPal will let users connect existing crypto wallets they own to a checkout page. Depending on a buyers crypto wallet, PayPal will sell the cryptocurrency on a centralized exchange like Coinbase or a decentralized exchange like Uniswap. The proceeds of that sale will be converted into PayPals own stablecoin, which will then be converted into U.S. dollars sent back to the merchant. Imagine a shopper in Guatemala buying a special gift from a merchant in Oklahoma City, Alex Chriss, president and CEO of PayPal, said in a statement. Using PayPals open platform, the business can accept crypto for payments. The move to let customers pay businesses with crypto is PayPals latest push into digital assets. Among the Fortune 500, the fintech giant has been an early adopter of crypto. In 2020, PayPal said that U.S. users would be able to buy, sell, and hold a select group of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum. It then expanded that capacity to Venmo. But during the so-called crypto winter of 2022, PayPal ratcheted down its public rhetoric on crypto. Now, as crypto markets are soaring and President Donald Trumps administration casts a favorable eye on digital assets, its charging ahead. In September it let businesses buy, hold, and sell crypto from their merchant accounts. And its stablecoin PYUSD, which the company launched in 2023, has increased its market capitalization about 70% since the beginning of the year to about $850 million, according to CoinGecko. PayPal plans to expand the ability for merchants to accept crypto to larger enterprise customers in the U.S. and globally, but a spokesperson declined to provide a timeline. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com A gunman opened fire inside a midtown Manhattan office building, shooting at least one police officer and one civilian. MSNBC senior law enforcement analyst Cedric Alexander and MSNBC national security analyst Christopher O'Leary discuss the latest on The Weeknight. A police officer and three other people were killed after a gunman with a history of mental illness opened fire Monday evening with an M-4 rifle in the lobby of a Midtown Manhattan office building that houses The Blackstone Group, Rudin Management and NFL headquarters, police said. Mayor Eric Adams identified the dead officer as 36-year-old Didarul Islam, an immigrant from Bangladesh assigned to the 47th precinct in the Bronx. He is married with two children and a third on the way, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. Islam has been a police officer since 2021. Hes a true blue New Yorker, Adams said at a press conference at Weill Cornell Medical Center. Not only in the uniform he wore, but in his spirit and energy and his love for this city. He embodied what this city is all about. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Islams brother-in-law, Jamil Rahman, speaking at his familys home in the Bronx Monday night, said: He was a hard working family man. Everybody is shocked and terribly saddened at the same time. He always wanted to be a cop, Rahman said. Police said the gunman shot and killed himself after his deadly rampage. Police sources identified him as Shane Tamura, 27, of Las Vegas. Tamura was issued a concealed firearms permit by Las Vegas police in 2022. The motive remained a mystery. The motive is still under investigation and we are working to understand why he targeted this particular location, Tisch said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to the three civilians killed, a fourth remains in critical condition. The shooting happened at 345 Park Ave. and 51st St. around 6:30 p.m., when police say Tamura entered the building with an M-4 rifle and started shooting. The buildings security camera footage shows the shooter enter the lobby, turn right and immediately open fire on an NYPD officer, Tisch said, describing the sequence of events. He then shoots a woman who took cover behind a pillar and proceeds through the lobby, spraying it with gunfire. Tamura then walked towards the elevators and fatally shot a security guard who was taking cover behind a desk before shooting another man who is currently in critical condition, according to Tisch. Related Articles Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tisch said the shooter then called the elevator. When it opened in the lobby, Tamura allowed a woman in the car to walk past him, unharmed. He then rode the elevator to the 33rd floor, where the offices of Rudin Management are located, and killed one more woman before walking down a hall and shooting himself. Tisch said Tamura traveled across the country, with his car being located in Columbia, N.J. at about 4 pm, just two hours before the carnage began. Islam, who was off-duty and working as a security guard, was taken to Weill Cornell Medical Center, where he died, police said. At least three of the civilians who were shot have also died, police said. He was doing the job that we asked him to do, Tisch said. He put himself in harms way. He made the ultimate sacrifice, shot in cold blood, wearing a uniform that stood for the promise that he made to this city. He died as he lived, a hero. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Islams friend Marjanul Karim, 31, told The News, that hed worked as a peace officer at middle schools but wanted to join the NYPD. He wanted to support his family, and he fell in love with law enforcement. He was a selfless individual, Karim said. This house he bought while providing for his elderly parents, in Bangladesh, Karim said. He was a stand up guy, it only made sense for someone like him to join the police force. My mother asked him why he left a secure job. He said he wanted to leave a legacy for his kids, Karim said. He told my mom, you have to die one way or another. He died a hero. At 7:52 p.m.Tisch posted on social media that the scene has been contained and the lone shooter has been neutralized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Eric Adams earlier warned New Yorkers to avoid the area in a post on X: New Yorkers: there is an active shooter investigation taking place in Midtown right now. Please take proper safety precautions if you are in vicinity and do not go outside if you are near Park Avenue and East 51st Street. The FBI is assisting with the investigation. Tamura was reportedly wearing a bulletproof vest. In addition to the M4 rifle Tamura used to carry out the crime, investigators found a loaded revolver with extra ammunition and magazines in his car. In Las Vegas, neighbor Nancy Malnak told the News police and media have descended on her bloc. She said she and other neighbors dont know Tamura or his family. We all know each other but we dont know them, Malnak said. Here in this neighborhood, almost everyone knows each other. Its just nauseating. Im so sorry that this happened. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) Breeze Airways announced new non-stop service from Rochester to Fort Myers will be starting next year. Starting January 8, travelers will be able to travel from the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport to Fort Myers seasonally. Starting Tuesday, travelers can book non-stop flights on Thursdays and Sundays. Earlier this year, Breeze announced flights from Rochester to Charleston and Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, Raleigh-Durham in North Carolina, Orlando and Tampa in Florida, and New Orleans. Most of these flights began in May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can learn more about these flights by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. Ultra-low cost airline Breeze announced a slate of new routes over the past few weeks, including a major expansion on the West Coast and two entirely new cities for its network in the east. "For more than four years, Breeze has been diligently constructing a diversified network that connects underserved markets across the U.S. while providing millions of travelers with an affordable yet premium travel experience," David Neeleman, Breeze Airways founder and CEO said in a statement. Here are the new flights that have gone on sale since mid-July, according to the airline: From Lincoln, Nebraska to: Orlando, Florida (Wednesdays and Saturdays, starting Dec. 10, 2025, from $79* one way) From Manchester, New Hampshire to: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (Fridays and Mondays, starting Feb. 6, 2026, from $49* one way) From Myrtle Beach, South Carolina to: Manchester, New Hampshire (Fridays and Mondays, starting Feb. 6, 2026, from $49* one way) From Orlando, Florida to: Lincoln, Nebraska (Wednesdays and Saturdays, starting Dec. 10, 2025, from $79* one way); Tri-Cities, Tennessee (Fridays and Mondays, starting Dec. 12, 2025, from $49* one way) From Portsmouth, New Hampshire to: Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina (Thursdays and Sundays, starting Dec. 11, 2025, from $49* one way) From Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina to: Portsmouth, New Hampshire (Thursdays and Sundays, starting Dec. 11, 2025, from $49* one way) From Rochester, New York to: Fort Myers, Florida (seasonally on Thursdays and Sundays, starting Jan. 8, 2026, from $79* one way) From Tri-Cities, Tennessee to: Orlando, Florida (MCO) (Fridays and Mondays, starting Dec. 12, 2025, from $49* one way); Washington, D.C. (Dulles) (Fridays and Mondays, starting Dec. 15, 2025, from $39* one way) From Washington, D.C. (Dulles) to: Tri-Cities, Tennessee (Fridays and Mondays, starting Dec. 15, 2025, from $39* one way) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Breeze gives back: How flights to nowhere can help 'lessen the anxiety' for travelers with autism From Arcata-Eureka, California Burbank-Hollywood, California (Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, starting March 12, 2026, from $39* one-way) Provo-Salt Lake City, Utah (One-stop/no change of plane BreezeThru, or connecting service on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays starting March 12, 2026) From Burbank-Hollywood, California Arcata-Eureka, California (Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, starting March 12, 2026, from $39* one-way) Eugene, Oregon (Thursdays and Sundays, starting March 19, 2026, from $49* one-way) Pasco-Tri-Cities, Wash. (Wednesdays and Saturdays, starting March 18, 2026, from $49* one-way) Provo-Salt Lake City, Utah (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, starting March 11, 2026, from $39* one-way) Redmond-Bend, Oregon (Mondays and Fridays, starting March 13, 2026, from $49 one-way) From Eugene, Oregon Burbank-Hollywood, California (Thursdays and Sundays, starting March 19, 2026, from $49* one-way) Provo-Salt Lake City, Utah (One-stop/no change of plane BreezeThru, or connecting service on Thursdays and Sundays starting March 19, 2026) A Breeze Airways Airbus A220 in Charleston, West Virginia. From Las Vegas, Nevada Provo-Salt Lake City, Utah (Mondays and Fridays, starting March 13, 2026, from $39* one-way) Redmond-Bend, Oregon (Mondays and Fridays, starting March 13, 2026, from $49* one-way) From Pasco-Tri-Cities, Washington Burbank-Hollywood, California (Wednesdays and Saturdays, starting March 18, 2026, from $49* one-way); and Provo-Salt Lake City, Utah (One-stop/no change of plane BreezeThru service on Wednesdays and Saturdays starting March 18, 2026) From Provo-Salt Lake City, Utah Arcata-Eureka, California (One-stop/no change of plane BreezeThru, or connecting service on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays starting March 12, 2026) Burbank-Hollywood, California (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, starting March 11, 2026, from $39* one-way) Eugene, Oregon (One-stop/no change of plane BreezeThru, or connecting service on Thursdays and Sundays starting March 19, 2026) Las Vegas, Nevada (Mondays and Fridays, starting March 13, 2026, from $39* one-way) Pasco-Tri Cities, Washington (One-stop/no change of plane BreezeThru service on Wednesdays and Saturdays starting March 18, 2026) Redmond, Oregon (One-stop/no change of plane BreezeThru service on Mondays and Fridays starting March 13, 2026) From Redmond-Bend, Oregon Burbank-Hollywood, California (Mondays and Fridays, starting March 13, 2026, from $49* one-way) Las Vegas, Nevada (Mondays and Fridays, starting March 13, 2026, from $49* one-way) Provo-Salt Lake City, Utah (One-stop/no change of plane BreezeThru, service on Mondays and Fridays starting March 13, 2026) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to these new flights, Breeze also announced a new priority boarding option, BreezeBy, which passengers can book for a fee, or get as an included perk with the airline's Nicest ticket bundle. Zach Wichter is a travel reporter and writes the Cruising Altitude column for USA TODAY. He is based in New York and you can reach him at zwichter@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Breeze Airways is adding more routes. Here's where they're going. Brian Walshe prosecutors want to call PI, wifes coworkers as witnesses in upcoming murder trial Prosecutors in the Brian Walshe murder case are seeking to have a private investigator and some of his missing wifes coworkers testify as witnesses in his upcoming trial. Monday court filings revealed that prosecutors have requested the certification of five material witnesses from outside Massachusetts to testify when Walshes case goes to trial later this year, The Boston Globe reported. One of the witnesses is the private investigator hired by Walshes mother to investigate Ana Walshes alleged infidelity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ana Walshes friends prepare for gruesome details in husbands murder arraignment Brian Walshe, the husband of Ana Walshe Ana Walshe, a real estate professional, shown in undated photo at a property in Baltimore, Maryland. (Instagram) Brian Walshe kisses his new bride, Ana Walshe, on their wedding day. (Facebook photo) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ana Walshe and her husband Brian Walshe Ana Walshe Ana Walshe Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ana Walshe Ana Walshe and her husband Brian Walshe Ana Walshe Police investigating the area near Ana Walshe's home Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police investigating the area near Ana Walshe's home Police investigating Ana Walshe's home Police investigating outside of Ana Walshe's Cohasset home Police investigating Ana Walshe's home Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pool that was drained outside the Walshe home Brian Walshe spotted at juice bar day after wife disappears The dumpsters taken away from Brian Walshe's mothers apartment. Taken to Peabody for investigation Brian Walshe appears in court for allegedly misleading police Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities search North Shore dumpster station for evidence in disappearance of Ana Walshe As the trial approaches, the inclusion of these witnesses could play a significant role in the proceedings, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding Ana Walshes disappearance. Larry Tipton, Walshes lead defense attorney, recently argued that the prosecution didnt present sufficient evidence to the grand jurors to indict his client for first-degree murder on theories of premeditation. Tipton also argued there is no evidence to suggest that Walshe believed his wife was having an affair. Brian Walshe is accused of dismembering his wife with a hacksaw and disposing of her remains after using his sons iPad to Google the best ways to get rid of a body. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors allege that Walshe killed his 39-year-old wife and misled investigators about her disappearance in early 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March 2023, a Norfolk County grand jury indicted Walshe on a charge of murder, misleading a police investigation/obstruction of justice, and improper conveyance of a human body in connection with his wifes death. He has pleaded not guilty to those charges. Ana Walshe, a mother of three young children and a real estate professional who worked in Washington, D.C., vanished on New Years Day 2023 and was reported missing a few days later, authorities said. Prosecutors have alleged that Walshe killed his wife in their Cohasset home on New Years Day. The couples three young boys were reportedly home at the time. Days after Anas disappearance, a hacksaw and a blood-soaked rug believed to contain biological evidence were recovered from their home by investigators. Police later searched trash bins, dumpsters, trash trucks, and trash facilities in the areas where Brian Walshe traveled following her disappearance. Prosecutors have also previously said that a broken knife with blood on it was found in the basement of the Walshe family home. Brian Walshes case is due back in court on Aug. 1. The murder trial is scheduled to begin on Monday, October 20. Anas body has never been found. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW I have never made but one prayer to God, wrote Voltaire; a very short one: Oh Lord, make my enemies ridiculous. And God granted it. One can rarely hope for more in politics. But what Voltaire neglected to mention is the darker irony; that someone may yet come along who is so jaw-droppingly awful that your enemies begin to look sane by comparison. Nobody believes Labour is effective or even especially dedicated to solving Britains ever-increasing immigration problems. According to YouGov, just 11 per cent of people believe Keir Starmers party would be best at handling asylum and immigration an all-time low. Reform, who have only recently been added to the survey, currently stand at 36 per cent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But as untrusted as they are, Labour may yet prove to be a restraining force on the worst excesses of Britains immigration system. Foreign Secretary David Lammy who once told The Guardian that it was morally wrong to take the view that anyone making their way across the Channel is illegal is currently playing the part of immigration hardliner after deciding to block a family from Gaza from settling in the UK under the Ukrainian refugee scheme. Earlier this year, in news broken by The Telegraph, Judge Hugo Norton-Taylor permitted a Palestinian family of six to settle in the UK under the Ukraine Family Scheme. In January last year, the family submitted their application using the Ukraine schemes form, arguing that it best reflected their circumstances and that their case was so compelling and compassionate it warranted approval outside the schemes formal rules. A lower-tier immigration tribunal initially rejected their claim, stating that it fell outside the scope of the Ukraine programme and that decisions about which countries qualify for resettlement schemes rest with Parliament. However, upper tribunal judge Hugo Norton-Taylor overturned that ruling, allowing the appeal and granting the family entry to the UK based on their Article 8 right to family life under the European Convention on Human Rights. Since then, Lammys Foreign Office has denied the family the consular support they need to leave Gaza and travel to a neighbouring country, where they could apply for UK visas at an application centre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a ruling on Monday, High Court Judge Mr. Justice Chamberlain sided with the family. He stated that the Foreign Offices June decision to withhold consular assistance was flawed and irrational and must be reconsidered, as the family had very little food and no effective sanitation and remained at constant risk of injury or death. The rulings of judges such as Chamberlain and Norton-Taylor show how detached from the British public Britains lanyard class has become the self-congratulatory bureaucrats and elites who inhabit a liberal bubble insulated from the practical consequences of their decisions. Labour, however, are not so lucky. In such circumstances its hard not to see the parallels with Voltaires ridiculousness; the judiciarys positions have become so absurd that they have forced Labour to become the hardliners. As dangerous and heart-rending as the situation in Gaza is, the answer is not as it has never been, to any humanitarian crisis to allow huge flows of refugees into Britain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet the decisions of these judges seem to be setting a precedent for Palestinian refugees to enter the UK despite there being clear and repeated indications from Government and politicians that this is not their intention. As I wrote recently, our immigration rules are collapsing under a combination of legal activism and political cowardice. We must hope Lammy shows courage instead. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. By Michelle Nichols, Olivia Le Poidevin, Nidal al-Mughrabi and Andrew MacAskill UNITED NATIONS/LONDON (Reuters) -Britain said on Tuesday it would recognise a Palestinian state in September unless Israel takes steps to relieve suffering in Gaza, where starvation is spreading, and reaches a ceasefire in the nearly two-year war with Hamas. The warning, which drew a harsh Israeli rebuke, came after a hunger monitor said a worst-case scenario of famine is unfolding and immediate action is needed to avoid widespread death. Palestinian authorities said more than 60,000 Palestinians were now confirmed killed by Israel's assault on the Gaza Strip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hunger alert and the new death toll are grim milestones in the current conflict that began in October 2023 when Hamas attacked Israel, sparking an offensive that has flattened much of the enclave and ignited hostilities across the Middle East. The alert by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) raised the prospect that the starvation crisis in Gaza could be formally classified as a famine, in the hope that this might raise the pressure on Israel to let in far more food. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's warning heightens pressure on Israel amid an international outcry over its conduct of the war. France announced last week it would recognise Palestinian statehood in September, a move that enraged the Israeli government. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a post on X that Starmer's decision "rewards Hamass monstrous terrorism & punishes its victims," adding that "A jihadist state on Israels border TODAY will threaten Britain TOMORROW." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. President Donald Trump said he did not discuss Britain's plans on Palestinian statehood during talks with Starmer in Scotland on Monday, when he told reporters he did "not mind" if Britain made such a move. But on Tuesday he said aboard Air Force One that he did not think Hamas "should be rewarded" with recognition of Palestinian independence. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas described Starmer's decision as bold, according to Palestinian state news agency WAFA. Starmer told his cabinet that Britain would recognize Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly in September "unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, reaches a ceasefire, makes clear there will be no annexation in the West Bank, and commits to a long-term peace process that delivers a two-state solution," his government said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move, if carried through, would be mostly symbolic, with Israel occupying the territories where the Palestinians have long aimed to establish that state in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip with East Jerusalem as its capital. It makes Israel more isolated on the international stage as a growing number of countries call for it to allow unfettered aid into Gaza, where it controls all entry and exit points to the besieged coastal territory. However, Trump's administration - Israel's closest and most influential ally - has made clear it has no intention of joining others in recognising Palestinian statehood anytime soon. Since returning to office in January, Trump has been vague about whether or not he would support an eventual Palestinian state. Starmer held separate phone calls with Netanyahu and Abbas on Tuesday before making his announcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EVIDENCE OF STARVATION, MALNUTRITION, DISEASE With the international furore over Gaza's ordeal growing, Israel announced steps over the weekend to ease aid access. But the U.N. World Food Programme said on Tuesday it was not getting the permissions it needed to deliver enough aid since Israel began humanitarian pauses in warfare on Sunday. "Mounting evidence shows that widespread starvation, malnutrition and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths," the IPC said, adding that "famine thresholds" have been reached for food consumption in most of Gaza. It said it would quickly carry out the formal analysis that could allow it to classify Gaza as "in famine". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gaza health authorities have been reporting more and more people dying from hunger-related causes. The total stands at 147, among them 88 children, most of whom died in the last few weeks. Images of emaciated Palestinian children have shocked the world, with Israel's strongest ally Trump declaring that many people were starving. He promised to set up new "food centres". Israel has denied pursuing a policy of starvation. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday that the situation in Gaza was "tough" but there were lies about starvation there. DEADLIEST CONFLICT The Gazan casualty figures, which are often cited by the U.N. and have previously been described as reliable by the World Health Organisation, underline the war as the deadliest involving Israel since its establishment in 1948. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel launched its offensive in response to Hamas' cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, when militants killed some 1,200 people and took another 251 hostage - Israel's deadliest ever day. Since Israel launched ground operations in Gaza in October 2023, 454 soldiers have been killed. The new Palestinian toll does not distinguish between fighters and civilians. Thousands more bodies are believed to be buried under rubble, meaning the true toll is likely to be significantly higher, Palestinian officials and rescue workers say. Israeli airstrikes overnight killed at least 30 Palestinians in Nuseirat camp in central Gaza, Gaza health authorities said. Doctors at Al-Awda Hospital said at least 14 women and 12 children were among the dead. The hospital also said that 13 people had been killed and dozens wounded by Israeli gunfire along the Salahudeen Road as they waited for aid trucks to roll into Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Saar said 5,000 aid trucks had entered Gaza in the last two months, and that Israel would assist those wanting to conduct airdrops - a delivery method that aid groups say is ineffective and a token. Israel and the U.S. accuse Hamas of stealing aid - which the militants deny - and the U.N. of failing to prevent it. The U.N. says it has not seen evidence of Hamas diverting much aid. Hamas accuses Israel of causing starvation and using aid as a weapon. (Reporting by Michelle Nichols and Olivia Le Poidevin; additional reporting by Lena Masri in London, Steven Scheer in Jerusalem, Trevor Hunnicutt and Nandita Bose in Washington, Andrea Shalal in Scotland, Ryan Patrick Jones in Toronto; writing by Michelle Nichols, Tom Perry, John Davison and Matt Spetalnick; Editing by Don Durfee, Kevin Liffey, Mark Heinrich and Alistair Bell) A British Army soldier who was new to driving on the right-hand side of the road killed a teenage motorcyclist in Germany. Pte Lewis Gillbanks-Norton, 23, had only been driving in Europe for nine days on a military exercise when he crashed into Leonie Ullrich, 17, a court martial was told. He had stopped in a left filter lane and was aware of the approaching motorcyclist but thought he had enough time to make a turn and cross her path before she reached him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court heard that it was one of the first times that Gillbanks-Norton was driving without a convoy of colleagues, although he had passed the service familiarisation test for driving on the right. At the time of the collision he had recently arrived in Germany to support an exercise by officer cadets from the prestigious Royal Military School Sandhurst. The soldier, serving in the 4th Regiment of the Royal Logistics Corps, pleaded guilty to one count of causing death by careless driving and was sentenced to a year in service detention. Sentencing, Assistant Judge Advocate Gen John Atwill told Gillbanks-Norton he had a greater responsibility to protect other road users given the size of his vehicle. Leonie Ullrich tried to swerve her 125cc bike around Lewis Gillbanks-Nortons truck He said: All drivers have a responsibility to protect the safety of other road users and to consider any action that puts other road users at risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was your responsibility to make the turn carefully. In driving a large vehicle, which may be slow to respond, there is still greater responsibility. Bulford Military Court, Wiltshire, heard that the soldier, then aged 22, was driving a six-tonne MAN SV truck with his passenger Pte Robert Jadaa from Hahnbach to Gebenbach, in Bavaria, on July 11, 2024, when the crash occurred. Lt Col Felicity Bryson, prosecuting, said: He saw a motorbike on the horizon, he was aware the speed limit was 100 kilometres per hour [60 miles per hour]. Pte Gillbanks-Norton began to turn left ... he thought he had enough time to turn left, the next time he saw the bike it was five metres away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ullrich, from Neukirchen, was on her way home from visiting friends and tried to swerve her 125cc bike around Gillbanks-Nortons truck. However, she was struck by the left side of the vehicle and became trapped underneath it. Gillbanks-Norton and Jadaa got out to assist Leonie but her injuries were fatal. Tragic news He had no previous convictions and a good driving record before the incident. Following the collision, he was breathalysed, which showed there was no alcohol in his system at the time. Ullrichs mother said in a victim impact statement: This tragic news has plunged us into a deep abyss and broken us, it is hard to find words to describe how we have felt since then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bob Scott, mitigating, said: From the outset [Gillbanks-Norton] has taken full responsibility. In a letter Gillbanks-Norton expressed his deepest and sincerest remorse to Ullrichs family. He has been sentenced to 12 months of service detention and a 12-month driving ban. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Nearly half of British adults are putting off or deciding against having children, with money worries a top factor, a stark new poll reveals. A survey of 18 to 50-year-olds from pollsters Ipsos, shared exclusively with The Independent, shows that 44 per cent of adults plan to delay having children, or are deciding against it altogether with the cost of raising children, including food, clothing and education, cited as the most common reason (39 per cent). And a third of prospective parents said they were put off by the cost of childcare in the UK despite the governments rollout of extended free nursery hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While a third of respondents said they werent having children because they simply didnt want to, others said they were put off by fears over climate change, with worries over how global warming will affect their childs future, and how having children may harm the environment. The poll comes as birth rates in England and Wales are at their lowest rate on record, and as deaths are expected to consistently outnumber births in the UK from 2030. Michael Farmer, a vocal supporter of family stability, criticised the systemic issues underlying low birth rates and argued that parents needed more financial support. The UKs tax system discourages childbearing; it is one of the least family-friendly in the OECD [Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development]. No allowances are made for dependents, so our tax system also disadvantages single parents. The current level of marriage allowance gives scant recognition of low-earning or non-earning second parents, he said in a House of Lords debate in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, more people died than were born in the UK. This gap is only expected to widen between 2030 and 2050, according to projections from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This means that the majority of population growth is driven by immigration rather than births. Education secretary Bridget Phillipson told The Independent in June that the steep decline in birth rates is a big challenge for the UK, which needs to be addressed. She added: Ive heard from lots of people that the choices that they wanted to make have been constrained, in terms of when to start a family and how many children they have, by factors like the cost of childcare, housing costs, instability at work. Fertility rates are shrinking faster than in any other G7 nation, falling by 25 per cent in the UK since 2010. However, women are still having slightly more children on average than those in Japan, Italy and Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite advancements in flexible working and parental leave, some parents polled said they believed that it is harder to raise children now than in previous generations, with the cost of living and the price of housing increasing beyond pay. The majority of adults (56 per cent) believe it is harder to be a parent in the UK today than 20 years ago, with 61 per cent of women saying it was harder to raise a child now compared to men (52 per cent). And even older generations agreed, with those aged 55 to 75-year-olds the most likely to believe (59 per cent) that parenthood is trickier now than two decades ago. The decline in birth rates has generated much discussion among politicians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recently, Nigel Farage pledged he would abolish the two-child benefit cap if Reform came into power, as part of a 180-degree shift to reverse low birth rates. But his stance has not yet fully won over the public, who still trust Labour more than any other party to support parents and families, according to Ipsoss poll. This is in spite of Sir Keir Starmers refusal to remove the two-child benefit cap, after pledging to reduce child poverty, which sparked public rebellion among Labour MPs. Meanwhile, the Tories are less trusted to support families than both Reform and Labour. The partys current leader, Kemi Badenoch, has previously said she believes maternity pay is excessive and that families on benefits should make the same responsible decisions about having children as everyone else. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But more than one in five people said that they dont trust any major party to support families with their policies. Tackling affordable housing is the most popular policy change, which would lead to people having more children, according to 42 per cent of Ipsos respondents. The cost of renting in Britain has now reached new record highs, according to Rightmove, with average asking rent at 1,365 per month. Meanwhile, fewer young people are buying homes, as housing prices are far outpacing wage growth. More than one in three adults also believe that making childcare more affordable for parents with preschool children would incentivise more people to have children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government has rolled out 15 hours of free childcare to children aged nine months to two years old, which from September will be extended to 30 hours of childcare a week. However, recent calculations from the Institute for Fiscal Studies, revealed by The Independent, show that uptake is likely to be 25 per cent higher than expected, and since the number of childcare places has barely increased in recent years, it will be a struggle for many to secure places. Improving access to free nursery hours will no doubt be a welcome move, since full-time childcare on average costs between 37 to 43 per cent of the average income in the UK. The Brief Brooklyn Park police chief says involved agencies are seeking third-party review of law enforcements June 14 political assassination response. Several lawmakers have requested reviews of security protocols inside and outside the Capitol. The Office of the Legislative Auditor is currently determining whether to launch an investigation into emergency communications during last months deadly shootings at a pair of DFL legislators homes. BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. (FOX 9) - Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley says his department and other agencies involved in the June 14 response to a pair of targeted political shootings are seeking a third-party review of law enforcement actions that weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This comes as several lawmakers demanded the review of security protocols around legislators and staff safety both inside and outside the Capitol. State senator wants independent security review What we know A Minnesota state senator is calling on the Legislative Auditors office to review Capitol security and rapid response protocols. Heather Gustafson (DFL-Vadnais Heights) is demanding full-after-action reports on the deadly political attacks of June 14th as well as a security breach in the Senate chamber this past weekend to better understand what is being done to protect legislators and staff. "We need a clear-eyed, independent look at what worked, what didnt, and how we move forward," said Sen. Gustafson, who explained that she wants a review to assess the response timelines and communication practices of relevant agencies and legislative leadership, including protocols governing notification of elected officials in the event of a threat or active danger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is not about blame. Its about learning the right lessons and putting safeguards in place to ensure no one has to question their safety while serving at the Capitol," stated Sen. Gustafson. Brooklyn Park Police Chief responds What they're saying Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley told FOX 9 he and the leaders of other involved agencies are currently seeking a third party to assess the law enforcement response at the homes of DFL House Leader Melissa Hortman and Senator John Hoffman as well as the massive, weekend-long manhunt to capture suspect Vance Boelter. "There is no playbook," said Bruley. "Nobody could have even conjured up that there would be a large-scale, political assassination, intending on the killing of many, many lawmakers across the entire state." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Let's learn what we did really well and also learn where we could have made improvements. That's what we should do in this case," continued Bruley, who is also seeking an independent after-action report. More than a month later, Bruley acknowledged, the police response wasnt perfect. But he said, he feels very good about how law enforcement eventually captured Boelter less than 48 hours after the deadly gunfire. "I don't know that you would ever give me a response in any critical incident where I would tell you, we did it perfect," explained Bruley. "These are human beings wearing uniforms just like this, trying to do the best job they can. They are mothers, they are fathers. Everyone showed up that day trying to their best. And I will tell you, while it wasn't perfect, I don't know that we could do it that well again. It was done extraordinarily well." New details emerge about June 14 attacks Timeline Bruley provided a second-by-second breakdown of events during the deadly and chaotic morning of June 14. He also revealed that the initial 911 call made by Sen. Hoffmans daughter, Hope mentioned that the shooting at the familys Champlin home might have been an attempted robbery. Bruley said there was no indication from the outset that the suspected gunman was on a mission to target elected lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Many people have the belief that there was just early-on knowledge that this was a large-scale assassination attempt. And that's just not the case," said Bruley. "Actually, the call came in as a robbery. Hope [Hoffman] called it in as there was a robbery, my dad was shot, he's a senator. So, that's what officers believed that they were looking at is a person posing as a police officer conducting a robbery." Response at Rep. Hortmans home The backstory Bruley also provided specifics about the police response at the home of Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. He believes responding officers reacted heroically in preventing the loss of additional lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They saved lives that day," said Bruley. "There is no question that had they not thwarted this and taken away the resources of the guns, the vehicle of Mr. Boelter, that he would have absolutely killed many, many lawmakers that day." Following the shooting at the Hoffman house, an on-duty sergeant ordered a pair of Brooklyn Park officers to check on the Hortman home. The first officer, Zachary Baumtrog, arrived at the house on Windsor Terrace at 3:34 am, about 90 minutes after Hope Hoffman had called 911. Bruley says officer Baumtrog saw Boelter actively shooting at the front door, and the officer returned fire. Boelter pressed inside. Baumtrog heard one more burst of gunfire after repositioning himself behind a car for protection and fired again. But then nothing. Bruley says Baumtrog and his partner quickly assessed the situation. "They start to fan out so they can assess what's at the front door, and they see a man [Mark Hortman] or an individual down in the entryway of the house," stated Bruley. "Immediately realizing that he's wounded, two of them immediately come up with a plan to go rescue him [Mark], which is part of active shooter type drills. Active shooter is trained where it's active killing or active bleeding, meaning there's actively somebody being killed and we have to go intervene, or there's actually somebody wounded where we have to go to rescue them and try to save their life. They immediately did what they were trained to do, which was go rescue that individual down and try and save his life." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the life-saving efforts of Mark Hortman and the arrival of additional backup to contain the scene around the house, a SWAT team deployed a drone inside. That is when a camera spotted Melissa Hortman at 4:09 am. It was determined her injuries were not survivable. Rescue teams eventually entered the house about 28 minutes later. Bruley told FOX 9 he 100% stands behind the decision of officers to remain outside until SWAT determined it was safe to enter. "It's not always a clear-cut line," explained Bruley. "But when it is actively shooting or actively bleeding, we rush in. That is exactly what they did. When we believe it is stagnant, and we don't know that anybody's in there, there's no knowledge that anybody else is in that house. They had no knowledge." "They chose rightfully to hold back," continued Bruley. "At no point was Mr. Boelter shooting again, was there any additional violence. And at that moment, it felt like the right decision was to fly a drone in and see if we could find what else was in the house. Maybe we found other people we had to rescue? Maybe, we found Boelter who was deceased? That was the goal was to fly the drone in to gain intelligence and that's what they did." Potential security reviews pending What's next Bruley said he is currently working with other involved law enforcement agencies to bring in a third party to assess the police response to the shootings and the subsequent manhunt. On Monday, Legislative Auditor Judy Randall told FOX 9 her office has taken several requests, including from Sen. Gustafson, to review emergency communications and legislative security protocols following the shootings that would focus on when and how lawmakers were alerted to the potential deadly threat. Her office will determine whether it will move forward with its own special review or investigation in the coming weeks. P&G is undergoing a leadership change at the very top as the consumer goods giant said price hikes are on their way amid the ever-evolving tariffs landscape. Shailesh Jejurikar, currently chief operating officer, will succeed Jon Moeller as president and CEO, effective Jan. 1. Moeller will become executive chairman of P&G, whose brands include Pampers, Tide, Gillette and SK-II. More from WWD Jejurikar joined P&G in 1989 and has been a member of P&Gs global leadership team since 2014, holding various senior leadership roles in categories, sectors and regions. P&G people, our brands, and our capabilities in innovation and operational excellence fuel my confidence for a future of sustained growth and value creation, said Jejurikar. It has been an honor to serve as CEO of P&G, and I am incredibly proud of the value created by the people of P&G through an integrated strategy that is being executed with excellence, added Moeller. I look forward to supporting Shailesh and the entire team as they continue to improve the performance and value of P&G brands and categories to win with consumers and customers around the world. The news came as the company said it would increase prices on around a quarter of items. At these rates, tariffs alone are a 5-point headwind to core EPS growth in fiscal 2026. We will look for every opportunity to mitigate these impacts, including sourcing flexibility, productivity improvements, and pricing with innovation in affected categories and markets, said Moeller during an earnings call. Its fiscal 2026 outlook includes $1 billion before tax in higher costs from tariffs based on rates announced since July 9, Moeller explained. You can think about the tariff impact in three buckets. About $200 million from materials and products imported from China to the U.S. Another $200 million from Canadas tariffs on goods shipped from the U.S. And the remaining $600 million from tariffs on goods coming to the U.S. from the rest of the world. The company reported fiscal year 2025 fourth-quarter net sales of $20.9 billion, up 2 percent versus the prior year and a touch above Wall Street estimates. Organic sales, which excludes the impacts of foreign exchange and acquisitions and divestitures, also increased 2 percent. Diluted net earnings per share were $1.48, an increase of 17 percent. Analysts had penciled in $1.42. BARDSTOWN, Ky. (FOX 56) A judge has barred the man convicted of the disappearance and suspected death of Crystal Rogers from selling his assets pending the results of a wrongful death lawsuit. Rogers, a 35-year-old mother of five, disappeared over the Fourth of July weekend in 2015. Her then-boyfriend, Brooks Houck, was the last to see her. Hes since been convicted of murder, although her body has never been found. LATEST ON CRYSTAL ROGERS CASE: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sherry Ballard, Rogers mother, filed a wrongful death lawsuit that named Houck in 2023. Now that hes been convicted, the litigation can proceed. Court documents cite that Houck has made several jail calls post-conviction to family members and his girlfriend, urging them to start the process of selling his assets. In one call with his mother, Houck said, Theyre going to take everything that Ive got, so go ahead and try to get what you can for it. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A temporary injunction has been filed, prohibiting Houck from liquidating his assets until an evidentiary hearing in October. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. Six years after Jeffrey Epsteins death inside a federal jail, the full story of what happened to the disgraced financier and who may be protected by his eternal silence remains under tight control. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has closed the case, no client list has been released and only one person connected to Epstein Ghislaine Maxwell was tried, convicted and imprisoned. Ghislaine, 63, cannot speak publicly, claiming that each time shes tried, shes been punished. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, her brother Ian Maxwell is breaking his silence for the National Enquirer to allege a widespread judicial and political fix. The siblings talk regularly on the phone, and Ian is the only person who can tell her story. He claims prosecutors destroyed evidence, allowed jurors to lie and pursued his sister not for justice but to shield their own failure in letting Epstein die behind bars. Nicholas V. Biase, chief public information officer for the U.S. Attorneys Office, Southern District of New York, declined to comment on this article. Now, Ian warns that his sisters life is in danger and she may never get out alive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the months leading up to her 2021 trial, Ghislaine was held in isolation for nearly two years. She was placed under suicide watch despite no psychological history of self-harm, and was denied sleep, food and basic dignity, according to her legal team. Ian says the treatment wasnt accidental it was targeted. What follows is his account of how the U.S. government chose a scapegoat after Epsteins death, and how his sister became the patsy of what he calls a stitch-up driven by politics, the media and institutional failure. World Exclusive: Ian Maxwell for the National Enquirer My sister would have loved to write this piece, but she dared not do so. The last time she spoke out publicly, guards dragged her to the SHU (Special Housing Unit) and placed her in solitary confinement. Ghislaine is immensely strong the least suicidal person I know. She has kept up her spirits by helping some 500 inmates with their own form-filling and letter writing. As a reentry clerk, she assists inmates in preparing resumes and finding housing and jobs, so they can reenter society as productive people; she has a hugely positive approach to life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, coming on top of two years of torturous solitary confinement, a wholly needless suicide watch that required her to be woken up every 15 minutes even when sitting outside the courtroom at Manhattan Federal Court and being deprived of food whilst on trial, theres only so much even she can stand, and she cant take risks. The Federal Correctional Institution in Tallahassee is not much better than Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn, she tells me. Its chaotic and badly run, overcrowded and awash with drugs and violence, which frighten her. The prison was described thus by the U.S. Inspector General in a 50-page report on the terrible food and conditions there: moldy bread, discolored and rotting vegetables in a food preparation refrigerator, evidence of rodent droppings, as well as bags of cereal with insects in them, female housing unit roofs routinely leak, black substances on walls and ceilings, and serious issues affecting inmate safety, including staff shortages. All the while, Ghislaine has been pursuing the legal effect of a 2008 non-prosecution agreement negotiated by Jeffrey Epsteins lawyers. Her case has now reached the U.S. Supreme Court, which has yet to decide to hear it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ghislaine was targeted by the DOJs Public Corruption Unit and the FBI after Epsteins death as they were canvassing for a suitable patsy to take the fall. The FBI was formerly run by Director James Comey, and Ghislaine subsequently found herself being prosecuted by his daughter Maurene Comey, the now sacked Public Corruption Prosecutor of the Southern District of New York. They were all driven by a whipped-up media campaign, and [the government] sought a scapegoat, having let Epstein die on their watch. The fix was in when following Ghislaines arrest the DOJ held a press conference, which branded her guilty before she had taken one step into any courtroom. Maurene Comey, we now know, committed a series of shockingly unprofessional acts, including condoning the deliberate concealing of critical evidence favorable to Ghislaine, which would have materially impacted the outcome of her trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To cap it all, the governments own Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) noted that prosecutors ordered the destruction of material documentation. Documents were not only destroyed but improperly withheld under client attorney privilege, executive privilege and the Privacy Act of 1974. [The DOJs OPR report cleared prosecutors of wrongdoing.] What else was lost, destroyed or concealed from Ghislaine? We are grateful to Floridas Gov. Ron DeSantis for releasing the Epstein grand jury transcripts [from a 2005-06 investigation into the late financiers alleged crimes against underage girls], which with other newly discovered evidence informed us of these and other abuses. The list of fixes goes on and on: The trial judge offered immunity to a juror for an explanation as to why he had lied on his jury selection form. In newly discovered evidence, we now know that the juror perjured himself before the judge [having denied purposely lying on the juror questionnaire] and other jurors lied, too. These are all examples of new evidence that proves that Ghislaine did not receive a fair trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For sure, Ghislaine had no inkling that she might become involved in this ghastly legal and political farrago. That her conscience was entirely clear is shown by the fact she never took the Fifth [to invoke the right to remain silent and not incriminate oneself] nor left the U.S. after Epstein died. Had she had any fear of arrest, she could have jumped on the first plane to France. Ghislaine was born in France, and France doesnt extradite its citizens. She would have lived a decent life amongst friends and family in the country, which is like a second home for her. Its all been a complete fix and stitch-up. The campaign that pilloried Ghislaine was whipped up for financial gain. We suspect who was behind it, but for now I accuse no one even as people have made $100s of millions and her principal accuser, Virginia Giuffre, had harvested some $60 million by the time of her suicide earlier this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Giuffre drove the whole campaign for financial gain. It was filled with demonstrable lies, but the mainstream media loved her because her stories brought in the readers that attracted advertisers, that produced the revenues that paid journalists salaries. It was thoroughly corrupt, yet she was accorded hours of television time and acres of print. Think about this: Giuffre was never called as a witness by the prosecution at Ghislaines trial. Thats because her evidence would not have stood on cross-examination. A dogged British journalist has been hot on her case for four years and, Im told, is to publish a devastating book that will reveal all. Evidence of Giuffres dishonesty came out when she accused Harvard Law School professor emeritus Alan Dershowitz of having sex with her, and he sued for defamation. She ultimately backed down because she knew she could not appear in court. There have been reports that Ghislaine is planning either to address Congress, apply to President Donald Trump for a pardon or both. We, her family and friends, are not behind these reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In every detail, Ghislaine did not receive a fair trial and is wrongly imprisoned. We will keep fighting to see her freed. For more of Ian Maxwells interview, pick up the issue of the National Enquirer on newsstands Wednesday, July 30. Newport Hospital is one of four Brown University Health hospitals in Rhode Island. (Photo by Janine L. Weisman/Rhode Island Current) Organizers of a rally in front of Newport City Hall Tuesday night to push for the continued operation of the Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center at Newport Hospital are in a cautiously celebratory mood after the hospitals operator committed to keeping it open for the next year. The labor and delivery unit at Newport Hospital remains funded in Brown University Healths fiscal 2026 budget and is not scheduled to close, according to an update provided earlier Tuesday by the health systems leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But a task force will evaluate the labor and delivery units long-term future over the next year, Brown University Health CEO John Fernandez said. The task force will be looking to assess quality, safety, access, finances, operations, community and statewide impact. We are committed to providing first-class services at Newport Hospital, Fernandez said in a statement. This task force will include input from community leaders, donors, nurses, physicians, and others. Brown University Health did not immediately respond to an inquiry seeking details about the task force, its membership and a timeline for its work. Were happy for this win, but were ready to fight for the continued longevity of the birthing center, said Brooke Cure, co-founder of Moms Over Margins, which organized a rally scheduled for 6 p.m. in front of Newport City Hall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event was moved from its original location on the grounds of the Great Friends Meeting House at Farewell Street and Dr. Marcus Wheatland Boulevard, which offers little shade on a day when temperatures climbed into the high 80s. Supporters were encouraged to bring signs and wear purple for maternal health. Cure, a Newport resident, had her 21-month-old son Thatcher at Newport Hospital. I truly felt like the women who were taking care of me at the birthing center, the OB, the nurses and the midwife that I had, I felt like a daughter, a sister, a friend, Cure said. The level of care felt so personal that it would be outrageous to close the center. The Newport City Council was able to meet with Brown University Health leadership in groups over a few separate meetings and had been expecting an update on the birthing center this week, Councilor Xay Khamsyvoravong said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is an ideal outcome for us at this point in time, Khamsyvoravong said. Fernandez outlined the challenges facing Brown University Health, which he said has been unable to achieve its 3% operating margin goals over the past decade. Revenues have not kept pace with rising costs for pharmaceuticals, supplies, equipment and labor costs and Medicaid losses reached nearly $138 million in the last two years alone, he added. To ensure we can continue to meet the communitys needs for critical patient services, we must act decisively, Fernandez said. This means growing revenues, controlling costs, and achieving operational excellence. Recent advocacy efforts secured $23 million in increased support to Brown Health, significantly short of the proposal we made to the state that would have yielded closer to $270 million statewide, Fernandez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If this underfunding is not addressed within the next one to two years, we will be forced to further reduce patient services, an outcome which is unacceptable to us at Brown Health and is a step we are determined to avoid, he stated. Newport City Councilor Ellen Pinnock said she would be willing to be a member of the task force, which she anticipated would have a large number of members representing all the municipalities served by the hospital and include advocates, medical professionals and community leaders. I think todays rally is more of like cautious optimism because we still have some work to do to find a permanent solution, Pinnnock said. Rep. Lauren H. Carson, a Newport Democrat, drafted a July 21 letter to Brown University Health voicing strong opposition to the possible closure of the birthing center. It was signed by her and fellow Aquidneck Island representatives Terri Cortvriend and Michelle McGaw of Portsmouth; Marvin L. Abney of Newport and Alex Finkelman of Jamestown. Carson urged hospital and Brown University Health leaders to keep the birthing center open, and to meet with the public locally before any decision is made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were happy, Carson said of Brown University Healths decision Tuesday. The community of Newport is really excited tonight. Many people in town worked very hard, very hard. The advocacy effort included resolutions supporting the birthing center passed by the Newport City Council and the Jamestown and Portsmouth town councils and an online petition drive that has received over 3,000 signatures. This is only a one-year plan. Theres more to do on this. The community needs to stay active and thats what I will be encouraging them to do, Carson said. In a statement, Gov. Dan McKee said he spoke with Fernandez earlier Tuesday and learned that community members would be involved with the task force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My administration has been advocating behind the scenes for some time to keep the Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center open for the families of Newport County, McKee said. This is excellent news for a concerned community who, like my administration, prioritizes issues of womens health. When it comes to childbirth, the time, access, and expertise the Birthing Center provides to Newport County are essential. House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi was originally scheduled to speak at Tuesday nights rally but will not attend. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Bryan Kohberger will spend the rest of his life behind bars for the horrific quadruple murders of the Idaho Four and according to newly released reports, he exhibited some strange habits during his time in jail. Corporal Brett Payne, the lead investigator in the case, spoke with an inmate at Latah County Jail who alleged that Kohberger, 30, became annoying to share space with as he would spend 45 minutes to an hour in the shower, and washed his hands dozens of times per day. He also reportedly kept an odd sleep schedule and would be awake almost all night and could be heard moving around. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for Kohbergers temperament behind bars, the inmate recalled him losing his cool once when he misunderstood a a comment. According to Paynes report, the inmate shouted you suck at an athlete on television and Kohberger immediately got up and aggressively asked if hed been referring to him or his mother. Other than the brief altercation, the inmate said the convicted killer was highly intelligent and polite for the most part. While Kohberger allegedly chose not to speak about his own charges, he would often question the inmate about what he did to land himself in jail. As the National Enquirer previously reported, aside from his chat with the inmate, Detective Payne also spoke with Kohberger when he was taken into police custody after the brutal slayings of Ethan Chapin, 20, Xana Kernodle, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21. He said they initially made small talk, as the 30-year-old admitted that hed once thought about being a police officer himself, according to the released case documents. Kohberger also spoke about his interest in criminal justice and his appreciation for the beauty of the state of Washington, where he attended college. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, when the subject shifted to the Idaho murders, Kohberger invoked his Fifth Amendment Rights. More than two years later, he officially confessed to killing the four University of Idaho students in 2022 as a part of a plea agreement that would allow him to avoid the potential of receiving the death penalty if the case went to trial. At his sentencing hearing on July 23, Judge Steven Hippler appeared to become emotional as he addressed Kohberger in court. I listened intently to the stories and pain that have been shared today with great awe at the courage and resilience of the surviving family members of those wonderful children, Hippler said at the time. Kohberger was sentenced to serve four consecutive life sentences. KILLEEN, Texas (FOX 44) You can help the family of the fallen Killeen fire captain during their time of need by going to Bubbas 33 in Killeen on Tuesday. The Belton Professional Firefighters Association says a fundraiser is being held all day, with 100 percent of all profits being donated directly to the family of Captain Marvin Taylor. The Association is inviting the community to come pack the house and show the strength of our community. The restaurant is located at 3701 E Central Texas Expressway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Capt. Taylor passed away in a car accident in May 2025. He had just welcomed his fifth child at an Austin Hospital and was on route to pick up his other children when he was struck from behind by another vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed. For more information, you can view our previous story here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. Burkina Faso has said it considers the death of a Burkinabe activist in custody in Ivory Coast to be an "assassination". Alain Traore, commonly known as Alino Faso, had been arrested six months ago in Ivory Coast, on charges of espionage. On Saturday, the Ivorian authorities announced that 44-year-old Traore had taken his own life two days prior, while being held at a military academy. Burkina Faso's information minister said the government "rejects the suicide theory", while Traore's supporters have accused Ivory Coast of carrying out "a cover-up for political repression". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Traore was a prominent advocate of the military-led governments in Burkina Faso and other countries across the Sahel region. These juntas have strained relations with regional bloc Ecowas, which wants democratic rule to be restored in the Sahel. Many of Traore's supporters allege that Ivory Coast, a Ecowas member, wanted to silence Traore over his dissent against the bloc. The activist led a huge community online - on Facebook alone he had more than 400,000 followers. When Traore was arrested in January, human rights groups and Traore's supporters said the charges against him were politically motivated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the activist's death, Burkinabe Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean Marie Traore called for "full light to be shed on this tragedy" and demanded the body be repatriated to Burkina Faso. He criticised the Ivorian authorities for announcing Traore's death in a public statement on social media, and allegedly not contacting his family first. "There is a great deal of contempt, a lack of respect and courtesy for the authorities and the people of Burkina Faso, and it is even more so for the family of the deceased who discovered such painful news on social media," the foreign minister said. He added that on Monday, he summoned the Charge d'Affaires of the Ivorian Embassy in Burkina Faso in order to obtain verbal confirmation of Traore's death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ivory Coast's public prosecutor has said investigations into the "motives and circumstances" of Traore's "suicide" were under way. Traore had moved from Bukina Faso to Ivory Coast with his family in 2021. While there, he owned a restaurant. Beyond digital activism, Traore organised aid for displaced civilians. Rights groups previously said Traore was detained in "inhumane" conditions and accused the Ivorian authorities of violating international human rights norms. You may also be interested in: [Getty Images/BBC] Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent. Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica BBC Africa podcasts BURLINGTON, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44) Burlington authorities said that detectives were investigating multiple reports of gunshots at an intersection in the north of the city. On two separate occasions, police received reports of gunshots and speeding cars near the intersection of St. Louis Street and Manhattan Drive, which is also the start of a bike path that parallels Vermont Route 127. Police say they found evidence that bullets were fired in each incident, in the form of spent shell casings left at the scene. Burlington: Mayors office no longer needs to approve police statements Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first of those two occasions was early on the morning of Friday, July 25, around 2:32 a.m., while the second was Sunday evening at about 9:34. Anyone with information is directed to contact Detective Erica Schaller at (802) 540-2282 or eschaller@bpdvt.org. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. NEW DELHI (AP) A bus carrying Hindu pilgrims collided with a transport truck in eastern India when the bus driver fell asleep, killing at least five people and injuring about two dozen, authorities said Some of the injured admitted to local hospitals early Tuesday are in critical condition, government official Naman Priyesh Lakra said. The bus driver dozed off while driving the pilgrims, who were returning from the popular temple town of Deoghar, about 268 kilometers (167 miles) from the state capital Ranchi, Lakra said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nishikant Dubey, a Jharkhand state lawmaker in the lower house of parliament, said in a social media post that 18 people died in the accident without disclosing the source of the information. He was not immediately available for a comment. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences to families of the victims and a wish for a fast recovery by the injured in a social media post. Deoghar is a major site for Hindu devotees in Jharkhand state and home to one of Indias 12 shrines to Shiva, a powerful Hindu god. The town attracts tens of thousands of visitors daily during the holy month of Shravan, which is dedicated to Shiva and normally falls between July and August. Devin Guirales of Central Falls, foreground, speaks against proposed service bus cuts in front of Rhode Island Public Transit Authority CEO Christopher Durand at a public hearing hosted at the Community College of Rhode Island's Warwick campus on July 28, 2025. (Photo by Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current) Devastating. It was the word echoed by transit advocates and bus riders outside a Providence union hall and again inside a fourth-floor lecture hall at the Community College of Rhode Islands Warwick campus, as they urged state leaders to find the money necessary to avoid sweeping service cuts being proposed by the states bus network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But its unlikely those calls will be answered anytime soon by Gov. Dan McKee and legislative leaders, who still await final recommendations from a long-overdue efficiency study they asked of the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authoritys (RIPTA) public hearings on proposed service reductions and a bus fare increase continue Tuesday with two sessions at the Newport CCRI Auditorium, from noon to 1:30 p.m and from 5-6:30 p.m. Without reform, RIPTA will continue to face recurring budget shortfalls and remain on an unsustainable path, Olivia DaRocha, a spokesperson for McKees office, wrote in an email to Rhode Island Current Monday afternoon. That response came just a little over an hour after RIPTA finished the first of 12 public hearings on its plans to cut or reduce 58 of its 67 routes to make up a $10 million budget deficit the largest service reduction in the agencys 59-year history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Altogether, RIPTA plans to eliminate 17 routes a combination of 11 routes and zones where riders book trips in advance, along with half a dozen park and ride connections. Should the agencys board of directors move forward with the recommendations, cuts would take effect Sept.13. Outside the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 618 hall in Providence an hour before the public hearing, Liza Burkin of the Save RIPTA coalition said the agencys plan would effectively shrink a statewide bus system into one focused on metro Providence with some coverage in Newport. This proposal before us is not rightsizing RIPTA, it is decimating our public transportation system, Burkin said. Make no mistake, if these cuts go through, workers will lose their jobs, students will not get to class, older adults will not be able to get to the doctor or get groceries. That fear of job insecurity is certainly real for Jessica Jameson of Warwick, who told RIPTA administrators at the CCRI public hearing that she relies on the Route 29 bus to get to her job at the Warwick Mall a route that would no longer run on weekends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The security of my employment depends on my availability to work on weekends, she said. If all weekend service on this route is suspended, I will likely lose my job. Rhode Island AFL-CIO Patrick Crowley, who sits on RIPTAs board of directors, said at the union rally that the proposed cuts were effectively a tax increase on working-class Rhode Islanders. But Crowley has yet to say that directly to McKee, he told reporters afterward. He said he anticipates a discussion with the governor will happen before the board holds a special meeting to approve the cuts on Aug. 7. The agitation of transit riders has at least reached McKees office, his spokesperson confirmed Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Constituent Services has experienced an uptick in RIPTA-related calls, DaRocha said in an email. Approximately one dozen of them referenced changes to specific routes that would impact them; the majority of these changes were related to frequency of bus runs. A person looks over a map of Rhode Island Public Transit Authority routes during a public hearing on proposed service cuts and eliminations on July 28, 2025. (Photo by Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current) A bumpy road ahead for transit riders Each of the nearly two dozen riders and advocates who attended Mondays hearing at the community college lamented the incoming cuts, but did not place the blame on RIPTA. This is nothing against you, Devin Guirales of Central Falls said from his wheelchair. We know its all because of the budget deficit that our governor and state has handed the agency. In January, McKees recommended fiscal 2026 state budget left a $32.6 million crater in RIPTAs budget. The General Assembly eventually propped up RIPTA with nearly $15 million in annual revenue from an additional 2-cent increase on the states gas tax and by upping the agencys share of the states Highway Maintenance Account. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RIPTA administrators managed to reduce the shortfall to $10 million, thanks to what RIPTA CEO Christopher Durand called a favorable price lock in diesel fuel, along with a positive market performance for the agencys pension plan. Durand told reporters after the Warwick hearing that the agency is still looking for additional ways to reduce service cuts, but said there are very few options. The gap is so big, he said. To get the kind of savings necessary to balance the budget, its cutting a lot of service. But Burkin and other advocates say it isnt too late for state leaders to infuse RIPTA with much-needed cash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One idea is for the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) to shift part of the $35 million federal carbon reduction funds toward mass transit. Another would be to reroute state transportation funds from highway projects to bus service. But RIDOT director Peter Alviti Jr., who heads RIPTAs board of directors, does not intend to redirect any of the departments funding. In accordance with the mission provided by the governor and legislature to make RITPA more efficient and right size the agency, RIPTAs administration will be making an assessment of all options that are available to meet that mission, Alviti said in a statement. Sen. Mark McKenney, a Warwick Democrat, looks at his phone before speaking in support of funding the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority at a rally outside the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 618 hall in Providence on July 28, 2025. (Photo by Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current) No immediate legislative fix It also looks unlikely that the General Assembly will shore up RIPTAs finances by reconvening in the fall for a special legislative session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In separate statements, House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi and Senate President Valarie Lawson both pointed to the spending solutions already in place in the fiscal 2026 budget. Any additional help could depend on the still-to-be-completed efficiency study. Although portions of the study were made public in the final weeks of the 2025 legislative session, a final report has yet to be released. A June 16 draft memo from the study suggested reallocating resources away from bus service in rural communities with low ridership to more populated low-income areas, along with more service for Providence residents who commute to jobs outside of the city. It also recommended the agency increase its $2-per-ride fare, which has been in place since 2010, but administrators have said they want to conduct a study to analyze impacts of a potential fare increase on ridership, revenue, and equity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is not reasonable to commit additional funds until RIPTA completes this study and its current public hearing process in order to develop a plan for a better public transit model, Shekarchi said in a statement. Sen. Mark McKenney, a Warwick Democrat who sponsored a failed resolution to fully fund the agency this year, argued at the union press conference that RIPTA is already run efficiently. He added that the state also finds ways to find financial solutions for local businesses, citing the quick tax code change in 2024 to keep Citizens Bank from moving out-of-state. If we come up with that, we ought to come up with funding here, he said. How to comment on service cuts Twelve hearings on proposed service changes will be held across Rhode Island over six days from July 28 to Aug. 6 Unable to attend any of them in person? You can submit comments through Aug. 6 by emailing marketing@ripta.com or (401) 784-9500 x1101. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX (Texas Scorecard) A series of course syllabi at Texas A&Ms Bush School of Government & Public Service contain diversity, equity, and inclusion statements, despite efforts by state lawmakers to eradicate the practice. An investigation by Texas Scorecard has uncovered at least 12 courses with syllabi that contain these sorts of statements. Of these, seven were part of the Bush Schools Washington, D.C. program, while five were taught in College Station. All courses were taught in Fall of 2024 or later. The state law prohibiting DEI in hiring practices, admissions, and training took effect in January of that year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, the syllabus for POLS 213: Intro to World Politics contained the following Diversity, equity and inclusion statement: The Department of International Affairs is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive learning environment for all students, staff, and faculty. We welcome individuals of all ages, backgrounds, citizenships, disabilities, ethnicities, family statuses, genders, gender identities, geographical locations, languages, military experiences, political views, races, religions, sexual orientations, socioeconomic statuses, and/or work experiences see, http://diversity.tamu.edu/. The statement went on to recognize a special responsibility to undertake particular efforts to include the participation and voices of those from historically underrepresented groups. While the statement acknowledged that diversity alone is not the only goal, it emphasized that embracing and supporting new perspectives, individuals, and ideas invigorates academic excellence and pushes our entire community forward. As a department of international affairs, within a university dedicated to the public good, a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical for preparing and ensuring the success of the next generation of leaders, concluded the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of the course syllabi in question use similar, though not necessarily identical, language. Texas Scorecard found related material in the course syllabi for the following classes: This list is not comprehensive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Bush Schools usage of this language follows several years of discussion about the role of DEI materials in state-subsidized higher education. In 2023, state lawmakers passed Senate Bill 17, which banned many types of DEI initiatives in higher education. However, this measure contained an exemption for academic course instruction. Course syllabi likely fall under this exemption. Texas A&M did not reply to requests for comment before publication. Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT) ranks among the best low volatility stocks to buy according to analysts. RBC Capital maintained its Outperform rating on Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT) on July 15 and raised its price target from $145 to $147. The firm pointed to Abbotts strong single-digit revenue and double-digit EPS growth potential as examples of its ability to provide top-tier financial growth in the medical technology industry. RBC Capital Sees Strong Growth Potential for Abbott Laboratories (ABT) According to RBC Capitals intra-quarter checks, Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT) maintains positive healthcare utilization in Q2. Moreover, Abbotts diabetes brand, which has been attracting a lot of investor interest, was one of the several growth catalysts mentioned in the firms report. The less elective nature of Abbotts medical device portfolio was also mentioned by RBC as a benefit. RBC Capitals sustained belief in Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT) as the best-performing large cap in its coverage year-to-date is bolstered by other positives such as business momentum in diabetes care, favorable trends in diagnostics, stability in nutrition, and strength in established pharmaceuticals. Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT) is a leading global healthcare company that manufactures a wide range of branded generic medications, medical devices, diagnostics, and nutritional items. While we acknowledge the potential of ABT as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. Read More: 10 Best Magic Formula Stocks for 2025 and 10 Best Retirement Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds Disclosure: None. The establishment wing of the Democratic Party tried a show of force in the New York mayoral primary. It didnt work. Pete Buttigieg thinks the old guards faceplant could be more than just an embarrassing moment at the expense of Andrew Cuomo. He said he sees an opportunity for nationwide Dems to learn from Zohran Mamdanis campaign. The former transportation secretary said the democratic socialists methods should be studied, even by conservatives and moderates in the party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its less about the ideology, and more about the message discipline of focusing on what people care about and the tactical wisdom of getting out there and talking to everybody, he said in an interview with NPR. Elsewhere in the interview, Buttigieg warned Democrats against using bloodless language. We do have to look at what were doing that makes it hard to hear what we have to say. Too often we talk in terms that are academic, he said. We still have to have a way of talking about it that relates to how everyday life is different, how your everyday life is different and worse. Start your day with essential news from Salon. Sign up for our free morning newsletter, Crash Course. The former Cabinet member immediately walked the walk, running down the lowlights of top Trump administration officials in plain speech. Buttigieg tore into Department of Homeland Security head Kristi Noem for her handling of devastating floods in Texas and called Education Secretary Linda McMahon woefully unprepared for her role. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When you have an autocrat in power, he can get away with appointing incompetent people over very important things, he said. The secretary of defense, in charge of defending the American people, was accidentally texting military strike information to journalists. The secretary of public healthis a quack. You can watch the interview below via YouTube: The post Buttigieg: Democrats need to learn from Mamdani to beat Trumpism appeared first on Salon.com. GRAND RAPIDS Two of the men who intervened in the stabbing spree at a northern Michigan supermarket on July 26 said they hope the 11 injured victims and the greater Traverse City community receive justice, after local prosecutors charged the suspect with terrorism and a slate of assault with intent to murder charges. Bradford James Gille, 42, was arraigned July 28 in Grand Traverse County 86th District Court and is due back in court for a probable cause conference Aug. 6. He requested a not guilty plea be entered on his behalf. A Detroit Free Press analysis of court records found a decadeslong history of Gille's run-ins with the law and mental health struggles. Matt Kolakowski, one of the men who confronted Gille in the parking lot of the Walmart near Traverse City where the stabbings took place, said as he locked eyes with Gille, the suspect appeared to be in a state of panic. Chris O'Brien, left, and Matt Kolakowski speak to reporters on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at Shield Investigators in Grand Rapids, Mich. The two were among those who rushed to intervene on a man later charged with terrorism and assault with intent to murder for allegedly carrying out a stabbing spree in Traverse City on July 26. "He had turned and looked at me, looked at us and had that knife forward like he was running," Kolakowski, 39, said during a news conference in Grand Rapids on July 29. "His run was very leaned forward, like he was trying as hard as he could to get out. I had seen his eyes at that point in time, but it had seemed like he was out of this world." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It looked very sloppy," added Chris O'Brien, 43. O'Brien and Kolakowski, who are brothers-in-law, were visiting the Walmart to pick up supplies for a family vacation when the stabbing spree broke out. They were among those who ran to confront Gille, with Kolakowski among the group who subdued Gille before he was arrested, hitting him with a shopping cart. O'Brien filmed the confrontation, which has been shared widely since he posted the video. After another bystander, Derrick Perry, pulled out his gun, O'Brien said he wanted to capture the exchange on film in the event Perry was provoked into shooting. Perry has since said he never intended to fire his weapon. Kolakowski and O'Brien both said they've been flooded with interview requests since the video spread online. Kolakowski said as Gille was confronted, he appeared to try to justify his actions. "He said, like in defense of what he was doing, 'everybody in there is bad, and they all need to die,' is what he was saying, pretty much. I don't remember his exact words," Kolakowski said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I would have assumed drugs," O'Brien said. "Bad ones." Noelle Moeggenberg, Grand Traverse County prosecutor, said during Gille's arraignment he "does have a clear history of mental illness." Gille appeared for his arraignment via Zoom from a local jail. At times, he didn't appear to understand Magistrate Judge Tammi Rodgers' instructions. "I don't really want to talk to you right now," Gille told the judge during his arraignment. During the hearing, he requested the court to appoint him an attorney. Moeggenberg said much of the incident was captured on surveillance video. Kolakowski, who is cooperating with investigators, said he is prepared to testify in any court hearing if called to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Right now, I'm just in contact with the sheriff's department through a detective there," he said. Kolakowski picked up the knife allegedly used in the stabbing after Gille was confronted. "I grabbed it and didn't let it go," he said. "I didn't want anyone to come up and take it." Both O'Brien and Kolakowski said they are hopeful the 11 victims receive justice in the case. Munson Healthcare, a northern Michigan health provider, said in a July 28 update that the stabbing victims' conditions were continuing to improve. "I hope the victims of this, and their families, all get better," Kolakowski said. "Seek help if they need it. I hope ... they get justice out of what he did. I hope it comes to that point where every one of them gets justice for what he caused. Even the people that witnessed it." This story was updated with additional information. Contact Arpan Lobo: alobo@freepress.com This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Traverse City stabbings :Men who confronted suspect call for justice A/C technicians are feeling the heat as units fail during extreme temps Air conditioning technicians like Justin Andrews with Berry Good Heating and Air are working tirelessly to keep homes cool across Georgia as temperatures soar. And when it gets hot, like I said, were running nonstop. You know what I mean? Nonstop, said Andrews. Andrews let Channel 2s Michael Doudna tag along for one of his calls. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] He said number of service calls for A/C repairs can more than double during heat waves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We go from an average of six calls up to about 13 a day, he said. The increased demand is due to A/C units overheating, which can lead to compressor or capacitor failures. Mandy Collins, a Georgia native, described the discomfort of summers without a functioning air conditioner, saying it can make life unbearable. You get like a ... You feel claustrophobic. I cant live like that, she said. To prevent breakdowns, Berry recommends regular maintenance of AC units similar to how one would maintain a car. In the meantime, Andrews and his coworkers continue to crisscross the metro area, restoring the sweet hum of air conditioning units for homeowners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For me, its really sweet because that means I get to head on to the next one, he said. RELATED STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A 55-year-old Texas man pleaded guilty to the stalking and harassment of WNBA star Caitlin Clark on Monday. Michael Lewis was arrested back in January and accused of conduct involving repeated or continuing harassment of Caitlin Clark that would cause a reasonable person to feel terrorized," according to Marion County prosecutors. From Dec. 16 through Jan. 2, Lewis was alleged to have repeatedly sent Clark messages on X/Twitter, some of which were sexually explicit and threatening. Lewis, who at the time said he was in an "imaginary relationship" with the Indiana Fever guard, originally pleaded not guilty and has remained behind bars ever since. On Monday, Lewis reversed his plea and was sentenced to 2.5 years in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With credit for time served, Lewis has a little more than a year and a half left on his sentence. "No matter how prominent a figure you are, this case shows that online harassment can quickly escalate to actual threats of physical violence, Prosecutor Ryan Mears said, via the Indianapolis Star. "It takes a lot of courage for women to come forward in these cases, which is why many don't. In doing so, the victim is setting an example for all women who deserve to live and work in Indy without the threat of sexual violence. Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever speaks to the media. Michael Hickey/Getty Images According to reports, Lewis' hearing today was chaotic, with the defendant repeatedly denying culpability, which contradicted his guilty plea. "I've never threatened her, I've never thought about threatening her," Lewis said, per WTHR. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He is going to talk himself out of a plea," the judge said after interrupting Lewis. "You have to understand that as part of a plea deal, you are admitting responsibility." Lewis also reportedly announced his theory that the world is ending soon. Eventually, the judge accepted his guilty plea. "You can't help yourself until you get help," she said, ordering Lewis not to use the internet and recommending he undergo mental health treatment. Caitlin Clark's Stalker Receives His Official Prison Sentence first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 28, 2025 The potential redrawing of Californias congressional district lines could upend the balance of power in Washington, D.C., in next years midterm congressional election. The unusual and unexpected redistricting may take place in coming months because of sparring among President Trump, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and California Gov. Gavin Newsom. Redrawing these maps known as redistricting is an esoteric practice that many voters tune out, but one that has an outsized impact on political power and policy in the United States. Here is a breakdown about why a process that typically occurs once every decade is currently receiving so much attention and the potential ramifications. What is redistricting? There are 435 members of the U.S. House of Representatives, each of whom is supposed to represent roughly the same number of constituents. Every decade, after the U.S. Census counts the population across the nation, the allocation of congressional representatives for each state can change. For example, after the 2020 census, California's share of congressional districts was reduced by one for the first time in state history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: California to lose a congressional seat, according to new census data After the decennial census, states redraw district lines for congressional and legislative districts based on population shifts, protections for minority voters required by the federal Voting Rights Act and other factors. For much of the nations history, such maps were created by state legislators and moneyed interests in smoke-filled backrooms. Many districts were grossly gerrymandered contorted to benefit political parties and incumbents, such as Californias infamous Ribbon of Shame, a congressional district that stretched in a reed-thin line 200 miles along the California coast from Oxnard to the Monterey County line. But in recent decades, political-reform organizations and some elected officials, notably former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, called for independent drawing of district lines. In 2010, the states voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure requiring California congressional maps to be drawn by a bipartisan commission, which it did in 2011 and 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Latino political power is a big winner in California's new congressional map Why are we talking about this? President Trump recently urged Texas lawmakers to redraw its congressional districts to increase the number of GOP members of the House in next years midterm election. Congress is closely divided, and the party that does not control the White House traditionally loses seats in the body two years after the presidential election. Trump has been able to enact his agenda from deporting undocumented immigrants to extending tax breaks that largely benefit the wealthy to closing some Planned Parenthood clinics because the GOP controls the White House, the Senate and the House. But if Democrats flip Congress, Trumps agenda will likely be stymied and he faces the prospect of being a lame duck during his last two years in office. California Gov. Gavin Newsom, shown with Democratic lawmakers from Texas, speaks during a news conference in Sacramento on Friday. (Justin Sullivan / Getty Images) What is Texas doing? Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called his states Legislature into special session last week to discuss the disastrous floods that killed more than 130 people as well as redistricting before the 2026 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump and his administration urged Abbott to redraw his state's congressional lines with the hope of picking up five seats. Read more: Texas Republicans aim to redraw House districts at Trump's urging, but there's a risk Abbott has said that his decision to include redistricting in the special session was prompted by a court decision last year that said the state no longer has to draw coalition districts that are made up of multiple minority communities. New district lines would give Texans greater opportunity to vote for politicians who best represent them, the governor said in interviews. Democrats in the Lone Star states Legislature met with Newsom in Sacramento on Friday to discuss the ramifications of mid-decade redistricting and accused Trump of trying to rig next years midterm election to hold onto power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans play by a different set of rules and we could sit back and act as if we have some moral authority and watch this 249-, 250-year-old experiment be washed away, Newsom said of the nations history. We are not going to allow that to happen. Democratic lawmakers in Texas have previously fled the state to not allow the Legislature to have a quorum, such as in 2021 during a battle over voting rights. But with the deadly flooding, this is an unlikely prospect this year. Why is California in the mix? The Golden States congressional districts are drawn by an independent commission focused on logical geography, shared interests, representation for minority communities and other facets. If the state reverts to partisan map drawing, redistricting experts on both sides of the aisle agree that several GOP incumbents in the 52-member delegation would be vulnerable, either because of more Democratic voters being placed in their districts, or being forced into face-offs with fellow Republican members of Congress. There are currently nine Republican members of the delegation, a number that could shrink to three or four, according to political statisticians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: California Democrats may target GOP congressional districts to counter Texas Strange bedfellows These dizzying developments have created agreement among rivals while dividing former allies. Sara Sadhwani, a member of the 2021 redistricting commission and longtime supporter of independent map drawing, said she supports Democratic efforts to change California's congressional districts before the midterm election. "I stand by the work of the commission of course. We drew fair and competitive maps that fully abided by federal laws around the Voting Rights Act to ensure communities of color have an equal opportunity at the ballot box," said Sadhwani, a politics professor at Pomona College. "That being said, especially when it comes to Congress, most certainly California playing fair puts Democrats at a disadvantage nationally." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the best policy would be for all 50 states to embrace independent redistricting. But in the meantime, she supports Democratic efforts in California to temporarily redraw the districts given the stakes. "I think it's patriotic to fight against what appears to be our democracy falling into what appears to be authoritarian rule," Sadhwani said. Charles Munger Jr., the son of a late billionaire who was Warren Buffet's right-hand man, spent more than $12 million to support the ballot measure that created the independent redistricting commission and is invested in making sure that it is not weakened. "He's very much committed to making sure the commission is preserved," said someone close to Munger who requested anonymity to speak candidly. Munger believes "this is ultimately political quicksand and a redistricting war at the end of day is a loss to American voters." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Munger, who was the state GOP's biggest donor at one point, is actively involved in the California fight and is researching other efforts to fight gerrymandering nationwide, this person said. The state Democratic and Republican parties, which rarely agree on anything, agreed in 2010 when they opposed the ballot measure. Now, Democrats, who would likely gain seats if the districts are redrawn by state lawmakers, support a mid-decade redistricting, while the state GOP, which would likely lose seats, says the state should continue having lines drawn by the independent commission once every decade. "Its a shame that Governor Newsom and the radical Left in Sacramento are willing to spend $200 million on a statewide special election, while running a deficit of $20 billion, in order to silence the opposition in our state," the GOP congressional delegation said in a statement on Friday. "As a Delegation we will fight any attempt to disenfranchise California voters by whatever means necessary to ensure the will of the people continues to be reflected in redistricting and in our elections." What happens next? If Democrats in California move forward with their proposal, which is dependent on what Texas lawmakers do during their special legislative session that began last week, they have two options: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State lawmakers could vote to put the measure before voters in a special election that would likely be held in November a costly prospect. The last statewide special election the unsuccessful effort to recall Newsom in 2021 cost more than $200 million, according to the secretary of state's office. The Legislature could also vote to redraw the maps, but this option would likely be more vulnerable to legal challenge. Either scenario is expected to be voted on as an urgency item, which requires a 2/3 vote but would insulate the action from being the subject of a referendum later put in front of voters that would delay enactment. The Legislature is out of session until mid-August. Times staff writer Taryn Luna in Sacramento contributed to this report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Get the L.A. Times Politics newsletter. Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond, in your inbox twice per week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The Brief A California man vacationing at Hilton Head with his family jumped into the ocean Thursday to try and save a young boy and his father. The Beaufort County, SC Sheriffs Office says 49-year-old Saumen Kundu drowned that day, but his 11-year-old son made it back to shore through the help of this Good Samaritan and other bystanders. Gavin Stokes says he wants 11-year-old Akash Kundu to understand how brave he was at that moment and live life to the fullest in honor of his late father. HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. - A 49-year-old Georgia man drowned on Thursday while trying to escape a rip current off the coast of Hilton Head Island, despite rescue efforts from a California man who also saved the victims 11-year-old son. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX 5's Eric Mock spoke exclusively to the Good Samaritan who helped save an 11-year-old boy and desperately tried to save that boys father when a rip current off of Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head drowning What we know Saumen Kundu, of Cumming, was pulled under while swimming with his son Akash near the Sea Pines community. Gavin Stokes, visiting from California, and his sister, Erica Boulay of Chicago, were at their familys condo when they heard cries for help from the ocean. The Beaufort County, South Carolina Sheriffs Office said the two were pulled out by a strong rip current at around 7 p.m. Thursday. Saumen Kundu (FOX 5 Atlanta obtained permission from the rights holder) Rescue attempt off Hilton Head What they're saying Gavin Stokes lives in California, his sister Erica Boulay in Chicago, but their family has vacationed in Hilton Head for decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were in the family condo in the Sea Pines community Thursday when they heard cries of distress coming from the ocean. "My partner, Suzanne, grabbed a pair of binoculars and looked out and said, Theres somebody out there. Theres a kid out there in the ocean," Stokes said. Stokes immediately sprinted to the beach. Boulay followed, grabbing a life preserver from the condo pool and tossing it to her brother. "I just panicked because I know how horrible the currents can be right there," Boulay said. The siblings have vacationed at Hilton Head for decades and were aware of the areas dangerous currents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There wasn't any hesitation," Stokes said. "I can't imagine not having taken action and then finding out later what happened." Stokes said the ocean was choppy and the swim out to Kundu and Akash was a struggle. "His father was facedown in the water and clearly not responsive. So immediately the task was to get him turned over," Stokes said. "I had the safety ring and I put it under his upper body to get his face out of the water. I tried rescue breathing." After multiple attempts to revive Kundu in the water, Stokes began the long task of swimming back to shore with help from Akash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He was very helpful. You know, he worked with me. He did everything I asked him to do," Stokes said. "He helped me hold the ring under his father. And we started kicking backwards. I was kicking backwards towards the shore." Boulay called 911 and requested a rescue boat, but none arrived. "Everyone on the shore [was] wondering, where are the boats, where are the helicopters?" Boulay said. "Is there nobody nearby?" Stokes said the current was so strong it took about 20 minutes to reach the beach. First responders arrived and performed CPR on Kundu for nearly 30 minutes, but he could not be revived. Akash Kundu Stokes believes Akash survived because of his bravery and determination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The important thing is that he not feel like its his fault," Stokes said. "The only reason there was a chance to save his fathers life, he yelled and yelled continuously and strongly enough to be heard over waves." "Hes sad for his dad," Stokes continued, "but to live a good life for his dad... I want [him] to know [he] did everything he could and to enjoy [his] life." More questions What's next Stokes and Boulay say they are urging officials to install more safety signs and emergency equipment along the beach to help future rescue efforts. The Kundu Family (FOX 5 Atlanta obtained permission from the rights holder) What we don't know Beaufort County authorities have not responded to questions about why no rescue boats were dispatched. What you can do A colleague of Kundu started a GoFundMe to help the family as they figure out how to get back on their feet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kundu was the sole provider for his wife and son. The Source Information for this story was sourced from interviews conducted by FOX 5s Eric Mock, the Beaufort County, SC Sheriffs Office and previous reporting by FOX 5 Atlanta. California and a coalition of other liberal-led states sued the Trump administration Tuesday over a provision in the "Big Beautiful Bill" that bars Planned Parenthood and other large nonprofit abortion providers from receiving Medicaid funding for a host of unrelated healthcare services. The measure has threatened clinics across the country that rely on federal funding to operate. California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta, who is helping to lead the litigation, called it a "cruel, backdoor abortion ban" that violates the law in multiple ways. The states' challenge comes one day after Planned Parenthood won a major victory in its own lawsuit over the measure in Boston, where a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking the ban from taking effect against Planned Parenthood affiliates nationwide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal law already prohibits the use of federal Medicaid funding to pay for abortions, but the new "defund provision" in the bill passed by congressional Republicans earlier this month goes further. It also bars nonprofit abortion providers that generated $800,000 or more in annual Medicaid revenue in 2023 from receiving any such funding for the next year including for services unrelated to abortion, such as annual checkups, cancer screenings, birth control and testing for sexually transmitted infections. Attorneys for the U.S. Department of Justice have argued that the measure "stops federal subsidies for Big Abortion," that Congress under the constitution is "free to decline to provide taxpayer funds to entities that provide abortions," and that Planned Parenthood's position should not hold sway over that of Congress. In announcing the states' lawsuit Tuesday, Bonta's office echoed Planned Parenthood officials in asserting that the provision specifically and illegally targets Planned Parenthood and its affiliate clinics calling it "a direct attack on the healthcare access of millions of low-income Americans, disproportionally affecting women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and communities of color." Bonta's office said the measure threatened $300 million in federal funding for clinics in California, where Planned Parenthood is the largest abortion provider, and "jeopardized the stability" of Planned Parenthood's 114 clinics across the state, which serve about 700,000 patients annually many of whom use Medi-Cal, the state's version of Medicaid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a virtual news conference Tuesday, Bonta noted that federal funds already don't cover abortions. He said the new provision was "punishment for Planned Parenthood's constitutionally protected advocacy for abortion" and "a direct attack on access to essential healthcare for millions who rely on Medicaid." "The Trump administration and Congress are actually gutting essential lifesaving care, like cancer screenings and STI testing, simply because Planned Parenthood has spoken out in support of reproductive rights," Bonta said. "The hypocrisy is really hard to ignore. A party that claims to be defenders of free speech only seem to care about it when it aligns with their own agenda." Bonta added: "Rest assured, California will continue to lead as a reproductive freedom state, and will continue to defend healthcare as a human right." In their lawsuit, the states argue that the measure is unlawfully ambiguous and violates the spending powers of Congress by singling out Planned Parenthood for negative treatment, and that it will harm people's health and increase the cost of Medicaid programs for states by more than $50 million over the next decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its lawsuit, Planned Parenthood also argued that the measure intentionally singled it and its affiliates out for punishment, in violation of their constitutional rights, including free speech. In granting Planned Parenthood's request for a preliminary injunction, U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani wrote Monday that she was "not enjoining the federal government from regulating abortion and is not directing the federal government to fund elective abortions or any healthcare service not otherwise eligible for Medicaid coverage." Talwani, an Obama appointee, wrote that she also was not requiring the federal government "to spend money not already appropriated for Medicaid or any other funds." Instead, Talwani wrote, her order blocks the Trump administration from "targeting a specific group of entities Planned Parenthood Federation members for exclusion from reimbursements under the Medicaid program," as they were likely to prove that "such targeted exclusion violates the United States Constitution." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to The Times on Tuesday, White House spokesman Harrison Fields said the "Big, Beautiful Bill" was "legally passed by both chambers of the Legislative Branch and signed into law by the Chief Executive," and Talwani's order granting the injunction was "not only absurd but illogical and incorrect." "It is orders like these that underscore the audacity of the lower courts as well as the chaos within the judicial branch. We look forward to ultimate victory on the issue," Fields said. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for additional comment on the states' lawsuit. Jodi Hicks, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, joined Bonta during his news conference. She welcomed the states' lawsuit, saying "an attack this severe requires a multi-pronged response with both short and long term strategies." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hicks said it's particularly important that California is helping to fight back, given the huge stakes for the state. "California is the most impacted state across the country because of the volume of patients that we have, but also because of the amount of Medicaid that our state takes," she said. "It speaks to our values. And this defund provision is certainly [an] attack on values most heavily on California." Bonta is leading the lawsuit along with the attorneys general of Connecticut and New York. Joining them are Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and the attorneys general of Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Bonta noted the lawsuit is the 36th his office has filed against the Trump administration in the last 27 weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Get the L.A. Times Politics newsletter. Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond, in your inbox twice per week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Any income made from increasing the minimum unit price for alcohol in Wales should be reinvested in addiction services, the chair of a Senedd committee has said. The Welsh government said it was considering the benefits of raising the unit price for alcohol beyond the current 50p. But one woman, from Gwynedd, who has battled alcoholism said raising the price would only cause "more suffering" to families of addicts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charity Alcohol Change UK said the price should be raised to 65p but added that more must be done to help the most vulnerable. Iola Ynyr, from Caernarfon in Gwynedd, recently won the Welsh Book of the Year prize for her series of autobiographical stories talking about her battle with alcoholism. She has now been sober for seven years but does not believe raising the minimum price of a unit would have the desired effect. "I don't think it would change the drinking patterns of people who are dependent on alcohol. "Anyone who is addicted or dependant is going to find a way of getting more because that's the illness and how it effects people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The need for alcohol increases and you have to have it, and if that doesn't happen in a situation where there's family, it's them who suffer." Iola said that people may cut back on eating or try to cut costs, "especially if there are children it's going to make the whole situation worse with more suffering to follow". Iola Ynyr believes more funding should be invested in recovery services [BBC] Iola Ynyr believes more funding should be invested in recovery services that include the arts and creative ways to deal with addiction. Plaid Cymru's Peredur Owen Griffiths is the chair of the Substance Use and Addiction Cross Party Group, and said studies show the increase would drive the number of people being hospitalised and dying down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Vast research has been done that shows the policy is working and people are getting help and reducing their alcohol consumption, and what that means is it's keeping people out of hospitals and out of the morgue." He said any additional money raised should go to "frontline services" and the "harm reduction elements that people are crying out for". Public Health Wales figures show between 2019 and 2023 there was a rise of more than 50% in alcohol-related deaths. Alcohol Change UK said it supported raising the minimum unit price for alcohol to 65p but also raised concerns that the most deprived areas could be affected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Director of the charity, Andrew Misall, said that making alcohol cheaper was not the answer. He added that those who had an alcohol addiction needed to be supported so they did not suffer. The Welsh government said it was considering the benefits of raising the minimum unit price for alcohol in Wales, after initial research showed its positive impact since it was introduced in 2020. It added it was launching a public consultation and would take those into consideration before deciding how to proceed. Washington, DC A spokesperson for the State Department in the United States has been questioned about the killing of Palestinian activist Awdah Hathaleen, allegedly at the hands of an Israeli settler previously sanctioned by the US government. At a news briefing on Tuesday, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce demurred when asked whether the suspect in Hathaleens death, Yinon Levi, would be held accountable. Israel has investigations that its implementing regarding situations of this sort, Bruce said. I dont know the end result of what thats going to be, nor will I comment or speculate on what should happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bruces tense exchange with reporters came one day after video circulated showing Levi opening fire on Hathaleen in the village of Umm al-Kheir in the occupied West Bank. The 31-year-old Palestinian activist later died from a gunshot wound to his chest. Levi is among several Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank who were previously sanctioned under the former administration of US President Joe Biden for perpetrating violence against Palestinians. But President Donald Trump reversed those sanctions in an executive order shortly after taking office for a second term in January. The United Kingdom and the European Union, however, maintain sanctions against Levi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hathaleen, a resident of Masafer Yatta, had helped create the Academy Award-winning documentary No Other Land, which captured the effects of Israeli settlements, which are illegal under international law, and attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank. In Tuesdays news briefing, Bruce appeared to suggest that Hathaleens shooting happened in the war zone of Gaza, before being corrected. Still, she maintained that the Trump administration sought to address violence wherever it occurred. Its the same argument. We see this in the West Bank. We know when theres violence in general. We saw something unfold in New York City as well, with a shooting in New York City yesterday, she said, in an apparent reference to an unrelated shooting in a Manhattan skyscraper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The State Department did not respond to a subsequent request from Al Jazeera about whether the Trump administration would revisit its sanctions policy in light of the killing. On Tuesday, Israeli media reported that Levi had been placed on house arrest after being charged with manslaughter and unlawful firearm use. Illegal settlements and Trump Hathaleen was a father of three who coordinated with several influential advocacy and lobbying groups in the US, and his death has renewed scrutiny of Trumps policies towards illegal Israeli settlements in occupied territories like the West Bank. During his first term, Trump reversed a longstanding policy recognising such settlements as illegal. Such settlements are in violation of international law and widely seen as a means of displacing Palestinians and seizing their lands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Israeli settlements have continued to spread rapidly in recent years and are seen as a major roadblock to future peace agreements with Palestinian leaders. Upon taking office earlier this year, Trump revoked many Biden-era executive orders, including the sanctions against Israeli settlers. The move reportedly came amid pressure from the Israeli government under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During his term, Biden had been criticised for continuing to funnel aid to Israel amid its war in Gaza, but his administration showed a willingness to take a harder line when it came to settlements in the occupied West Bank. The situation in the West Bank in particular high levels of extremist settler violence, forced displacement of people and villages, and property destruction has reached intolerable levels, Bidens executive order, dated February 2024, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It added that Israeli actions in the West Bank constitute a serious threat to the peace, security, and stability of the West Bank and Gaza, Israel, and the broader Middle East region. Violence on the part of Israeli settlers and military forces has surged since Israels war in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, with at least 1,000 Palestinians killed in the West Bank. Rights observers say violent settlers are often protected by the military as they attack Palestinians. Those killed have included US citizens, most recently Sayfollah Musallet, a 20-year-old resident of Florida, beaten to death while visiting his familys land in the village of Sinjil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a rare statement condemning Musallets killing, US ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, a vocal supporter of Israeli settlements, called on the country to aggressively investigate what he called a criminal and terrorist act. To date, no one has been arrested or charged in the killing. In a statement following Mondays attack, J Street, a left-leaning pro-Israel lobbying group, called on US lawmakers to support legislation that would codify the Biden-era sanctions against settlers like Levi. The group explained that its members had deep, personal ties to Hathaleen, and said they were heartbroken and horrified by his killing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a post on the social media platform X on Tuesday, Congress member Delia Ramirez called Hathaleens killing a painful reminder that our government and Israel continue to enable and condone violence in the West Bank. We must reinstate the sanctions on West Bank settlers perpetrating violence and hold accountable all those whose extreme and escalating violence continues to rob us of our neighbors including Trump and Netanyahu, she wrote. A Cambodian government official has praised U.S. President Donald Trump for "bringing about peace" after Thailand and Cambodia agreed to a cease-fire starting at midnight local time on Monday. The two sides pledged to lay down their weapons following their deadliest fighting in more than a decade. At least 36 people were killed and hundreds of thousands of civilians fled the disputed border areas between the Southeast Asian nations. The ceasefire comes amid pressure from Trump, who said on Truth Social on Saturday that he'd pause trade tariff talks with both countries if hostilities continued. Thailand had initially rejected the offer of a third party mediation but changed its tune following Trump's tariff threat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Cambodia fully supports the initiative from the U.S., particularly President Donald Trump, to end the conflict or to immediately have a ceasefire," Lim Menghour, Director General of Cambodia's National Assembly, told ABC News on Monday. ABC News - PHOTO: ABC News Foreign Correspondent Britt Clennett speaks with Director General of Cambodia's National Assembly Lim Menghour, on Monday, July 28, 2025. "Our prime minister received a call from U.S. President Donald Trump who offered mediation to end this conflict, and immediately our prime minister accepted the offer," he added. Menghour described Monday's ceasefire talks in Malaysia as "a good meeting with a good result," which "produced a positive development." In announcing the ceasefire, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, flanked by his Thai and Cambodian counterparts, described it as "a vital first step to a de-escalation and a restoration of peace and security." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two beleaguered leaders shook hands with each other after holding face to face talks for the first time since the conflict first began on Thursday, with both sides blaming each other for firing first -- then pounding each other with attacks along the contested border areas. Mohd Rasfan/POOL/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, center, looks on as Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet, left, and Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, right, take part in talks on a ceasefire between in Putrajaya on July 28, 2025. MORE: Cambodia-Thailand conflict: Monks, dancers and volunteers offer respite as violence escalates There's skepticism over whether this ceasefire, which centers around a century-old border dispute, will actually last. While Menghour said the immediate cessation of hostilities is key to resolving this dispute, Cambodia has stated its position clearly. "We do not let go of our sovereignty, our territorial integrity," he stressed. Landmines and nationalism This conflict was an escalation of a months-long standoff fueled in part by landmines and nationalist fervor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both countries accused each other of opening fire first, early on Thursday near the Ta Moan Thom temple -- around 224 miles from Bangkok. The initial salvos were followed by what Thailand described as airstrikes on military targets in Cambodia, as Bangkok accused Phnom Penh of shelling and killing civilians. Thailand's military closed all border checkpoints with Cambodia and said that fighting was taking place at several points along the undemarcated border, prompting Bangkok to activate an emergency war readiness plan. This armed conflict also comes on the back of a full-blown diplomatic crisis reignited by Bangkok last Wednesday when it said it would withdraw its ambassador to Cambodia and expel Cambodia's own envoy to the country. Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters - PHOTO: Armoured personnel carriers (APC) are seen on a road near Thailand-Cambodia's border in Sisaket province, the day after the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand agreed to a ceasefire on Monday, in Thailand, July 29, 2025. Thailand's decision followed a land mine blast that wounded five Thai soldiers along the disputed border. A week earlier, another land mine in a different contested area exploded and wounded three Thai soldiers when one of them stepped on it and lost a foot, according to the Thai Army. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cambodia responded by downgrading diplomatic relations with Thailand to their lowest level and recalling all Cambodian staff from its embassy in Bangkok. Phnom Penh also rejected Bangkok's claims of placing landmines in disputed areas, describing them as baseless claims and instead saying that Thai soldiers had veered off agreed patrol routes and triggered a mine left behind from decades of war. Cambodia has many landmines left over from its civil war decades ago, numbering in the millions, according to de-mining groups. Thai Prime MInister's Office via AP - PHOTO: This image provided by the Thai Prime MInister's Office shows Thailand's Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, center, with his staff listening during his phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, in Bangkok on Monday July 28, 2025. Tensions between the two countries have been escalating since a brief exchange of gunfire in late May in one of several small patches of land both countries claim as their own territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nationalism has further inflamed the situation on both sides, and Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended from the top job earlier this month over a leaked call with Cambodia's influential former leader Hun Sen in which she was seen as appeasing him over the border row, while undermining her own military. Her dynasty family - which has dominated Thai politics in this millennium -- is also accused of cozying up to Cambodian officials because of their vast business interests in the country. However, the roots of this conflict go even deeper. For more than a century, Thailand and Cambodia have contested sovereignty at various contested points along their 508 miles land border, which has led to skirmishes over several years and at least a dozen deaths, including during a weeklong exchange of artillery in 2011. Global footwear and apparel company Skechers USA is facing a lawsuit for allegedly infringing on footwear brand Kizik Designs patents. The legal action was initiated on 24 July in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Texas by HandsFree Labs (HFL), the intellectual property and innovation engine behind Kizik. The lawsuit focuses on Skechers' Hands Free Slip-ins collection, which the company has marketed as a key innovation in the market. According to the filing, Skechers has been accused of infringing upon four utility patents owned by HFL that cover hands-free shoe entry technology, as well as two HFL design patents concerning aesthetic features. In response, Skechers has announced its intent to defend against the patent suit and called the lawsuit baseless. Skechers highlights its own innovation in the space with more than 140 utility and design patents globally, including in the US. Skechers president Michael Greenberg said: The timing of this lawsuit is curious, coming on the heels of Skechers announcing a $9.42bn merger with 3G Capital. Kizik asserts that, at the heart of Skechers hands-free shoes are Kiziks patented technologies, yet Skechers has been advertising and selling its Slip-ins since December 2021 without so much as a letter from Kizik. Then, after the merger is announced, Kizik hires a law firm also used by Nike and attacks our whole Slip-ins product line. We believe that, after all these years of silence, the true motivation for this lawsuit might be found right on the face of Kiziks complaint, where they state that they are looking for a share of the $9.42bn being paid for Skechers, money Kizik did not earn and does not deserve. Skechers said it has a record of defending its intellectual property rights, as evidenced by multiple judgements, injunctions, and settlements worldwide. Last month, a shareholder of Skechers USA launched legal proceedings seeking additional transparency regarding the company's forthcoming acquisition by private equity company 3G Capital. The brand's offerings are globally accessible, with availability in 180 countries and territories in over 5,300 Skechers retail stores. Greenberg added: Hands-free footwear has been around for at least a century. It was not created in the 21st century in Utah. We have become the market leader in the hands-free footwear space by innovating - not imitating - this idea into a true hands-free fit with our own technology. "Skechers invests tremendous resources into research and development to introduce its own fresh, unique and exciting footwear to customers year in and year out and will continue to do so, undeterred by transparent litigation efforts to thwart competition. We will aggressively challenge both the validity of the patents and the infringement claims. By Chantha Lach and Zaw Naing Oo SAMRAONG, Cambodia (Reuters) -On Cambodia's northwestern border, residents staying in makeshift refugee shelters were waiting to head home on Tuesday after a fierce five-day conflict with neighbouring Thailand ended in a ceasefire effective from Monday night. "If they (the government) say that my village is safe to return then I would go back home and reunite with my family because here is not as easy to live as my home," said Meun Saray, a 45-year-old woman holding a child under a tarpaulin shelter in a muddy field near the border town of Samraong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Samraong, capital of Cambodia's Oddar Meanchey province, was almost completely deserted on Monday, with most of its shops shuttered and its roads eerily quiet after many of its 70,000 residents fled the conflict. About 320 km (200 miles) from the capital Phnom Penh, the town was caught in the middle of the most intense fighting between the two countries in more than a decade, when a simmering border dispute boiled over into a violent military confrontation starting on July 24. "People left because they were scared of fighting," said Inn Theary, a local resident and street vendor who couldn't afford to leave town. "Some people went to live with their relatives and some others went to stay in the refugee camp," she said. "However, people who are very poor like me, we stay here to make money to feed my children." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The town is directly south of the O Smach border crossing, and shelling and gunfire were heard on Monday afternoon, said Meach Sovannara, head of the opposition New Generation Party, adding some local villagers were injured after their homes were hit by stray bullets. "Bullets from gunfire don't know whether people are Cambodian or Thai," he said. "We all know that the war is a disaster. Separated families - they can't farm, do business. Students can't study. People wounded, dead." A decades-long border dispute between the two Southeast Asian neighbours has escalated since late May, when a Cambodian soldier was killed in a skirmish and both countries began reinforcing troops along their 800-km (500-mile) border. Both sides accused the other of starting last week's fighting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two neighbours agreed an "immediate and unconditional" ceasefire, effective from midnight, at a meeting in Malaysia on Monday after nearly a week of hostilities that saw at least 38 mostly civilian deaths. Small clashes continued to break out after the ceasefire came into effect, though acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai told reporters on Tuesday that the situation was now calm. At the refugee camp, residents are still wary. "I really wanted to return home but I dare not go now yet," said Seun Ruot, a 47-year-old housewife. "I'd rather wait later today or tomorrow to see what the situation looks like." (Reporting by Chantha Lach and Zaw Naing Oo; Writing by David Stanway; Editing by John Mair) Does a Cambridge startup have a pill that can treat sleep apnea? Last week, Apnimed, a little-known pharma startup founded in 2017, announced encouraging results from its clinical trial of a new drug for people who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, a breathing interruption during sleep that can often lead to bigger health problems. According to the company, this experimental pill reduced the number of breathing interruptions per hour during sleep by 46.8%. Those interruptions lower oxygen levels in the body and sometimes cause people to wake up or not get a restful nights sleep. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, many people with sleep apnea either use special mouthguards when they sleep, rely on a machine called a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) device to keep their airways open while they sleep, or dont seek treatment at all. About 30 million Americans have sleep apnea, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and many of them go undiagnosed or untreated. Apnimed cites a higher number 80 million Americans, with 23 million filing some kind of insurance claim related to the condition over the past five years, according to Barry Wohl, Apnimeds chief business officer. Apnimeds clinical trial focused on 1,300 people who had either never used a CPAP machine or tried one and stopped using it. The field is kind of crying out for an easy-to-use, easy-to-try therapy like an oral medication would be, Wohl said. The company plans to submit its application for review to the Food and Drug Administration early next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are six things to know about the new drug and the company: Reduced breathing interruptions The companys clinical trials involved whats called a combination drug, which combines two active ingredients into a pill taken before bedtime. It works by increasing muscle tone in the throat overnight, which prevents the airway from collapsing and causing a breathing interruption. The trials included patients with mild, moderate and severe sleep apnea, and found that the experimental medicine reduced the incidence of breathing interruptions by 46.8%, compared to a 6.8% reduction among patients who were taking a placebo. First oral medication for sleep apnea Apnimeds drug candidate is the first oral medication for sleep apnea to complete two large Phase 3 trials, and it could be the first approved for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the FDA approved the weight loss medicine Zepbound, made by Eli Lilly & Co., last year to treat the condition by helping obese patients lose weight. (Obesity is a significant cause of sleep apnea.) That drug is taken as an injection. Wohl said that taking Zepbound is a long-term solution, while Apnimeds drug holds the potential to treat that patient in the very near-term. It doesnt require you to lose weight. Its something thats activating the muscles of the upper airway right away. Dry mouth and insomnia side effects In the clinical trials, there were no serious adverse events linked to the drug, but dry mouth and insomnia were the most common side effects. Dr. Robert Thomas, Director of the Sleep Medicine Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, raised an important caveat: while the drug may improve a patients oxygen levels, sleep quality and daytime functioning the reasons most patients seek treatment may not improve significantly. A pill for sleep apnea is the holy grail, but truth is murkier than the (positive) press, he said. Thomas doesnt expect any future pill to work for everyone, but he said it could be effective for some patients with mild or moderate sleep apnea who have minimal comorbidities, or other medical conditions such as high blood pressure or obesity that can complicate treatment. Apnimed raised more than $280M Apnimed was co-founded by scientists from Brigham and Womens Hospital and is headquartered in Cambridge. Its a largely virtual company, with about one-third of its 75 employees based in the Boston area and the rest working remotely across the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company has raised more than $280 million to date, but hasnt announced any plans for a public stock offering, according to Wohl. Federal funding cuts threaten research One of the companys founders, Andrew Wellman, said approximately $500,000 in funding from the National Institutes of Health helped underwrite some of the early research at his lab at Brigham and Womens Hospital, before Apnimeds existence as a company. He also raised money from a private philanthropist who suffers from sleep apnea. He said he worries about proposed cuts to NIH funding of roughly 40 percent. Theres a long payoff horizon to promising scientific research, said Wellman, who is also a professor of sleep medicine at Harvard. Some of that research will vanish, he expects, if funding is reduced dramatically. Insurance reimbursement not yet clear Will insurance cover Apnimeds new pill? We dont know the answer to that yet. Wohl emphasized that Apnimed has been talking with major insurance payers to define how its medicine might be classified and reimbursed once it is approved for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want to ensure that once we launch the drug, people are able to get access to it, he said. Stories by Scott Kirsner Read the original article on MassLive. In the animal kingdom, bats are notorious natural reservoirs for infectious disease and valuable footage captured in Uganda could give researchers new insight into how emerging pathogens are transmitted between species, per The New York Times. Research published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature in 2021 observed that "bats host more zoonotic pathogens than any other known mammalian species." The World Health Organization defines "zoonotic pathogens" (or zoonoses) as diseases that have "jumped from a non-human animal to humans." Medical experts estimate that 60% to 75% of emerging diseases pathogens that are either entirely novel or illnesses that abruptly strike a population are zoonotic in nature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As was deftly illustrated in the eerily prescient 2011 film Contagion, habitat loss and an overheating planet have drastically exacerbated the rate at which zoonotic pathogens spread by vector species like mosquitoes and bats. The nature of emerging diseases and zoonotic transmission is such that researchers are tasked with retracing a novel pathogen's steps, often in the midst of an outbreak. Trail cameras provide scientists and conservationists with unprecedented opportunities to observe animal behavior from afar, and "solar-powered camera traps" in Uganda's Queen Elizabeth National Park captured invaluable footage of bats interacting with other animals in the wild, according to the Times. Bosco Atukwatse, whom the Times described as "a young Ugandan wildlife biologist," set up the cameras at a site known as Python Cave. That cave happens to be home to tens of thousands of Egyptian fruit bats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Atukwatse intended to observe spotted hyenas and leopards but said a combination of "curiosity and luck" revealed a trove of data about how bats interact with large predators and act as a vector for disease. According to Atukwatse, myriad predators were seen visiting the cave at night to hunt. He said it was "amazing how many animals come to eat bats at that specific spot," adding that the predators would end up "dispersing" pieces of the bats they hunted. On June 15, Atukwatse published a preprint an early draft of published research to share his findings. It is pending peer review. Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Jonathan Epstein is an epidemiologist and expert on zoonotic transmission. Epstein was not involved in publishing the paper, but he told the Times why the data could be extremely valuable for both researching emerging zoonotic pathogens and defining them to the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's a really important observation, because we think speculatively about how wildlife comes into contact with each other, but we rarely ever observe it. It helps us paint the picture," Epstein said. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Almost every day it seems there are new stories about immigration and deportations making headlines across the country. And because of that, a local ministry dedicated to helping Latino migrants in the area has been seeing a high volume of calls from people seeking guidance. Nearly 4,000 without power in Sioux Falls Caminando Juntos in Sioux Falls helps Latino migrants in many ways including with immigration legal services. However, executive director Matthew Tschetter says theres only two people on that team and they have been busy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since April of this year, weve received over 500 calls from people asking for assistance with their paperwork, Tschetter said. Now, immigration law is one of the most complicated laws in the land and there are a lot of different aspects. Tschetter says theyve been taking calls about everything from case updates and DACA renewal concerns to being stopped by ICE and deportation worries. One of the things that weve come across is that South Dakota is in a immigration legal services desert not a lot of people who work with immigration law and theres a lot of need, Tschetter said. So few people working in it and a lot of need. So, all of us are working as hard as we can to respond to those needs. Because of the high volume of calls, the waitlist for legal services at Caminando Juntos is full for 2025. However, Tschetter says there are multiple entities working to keep people informed right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Often we try to tell people to make sure to be up to date with their own paperwork, Tschetter said. If they have questions to call us, to call Lutheran Social Services or South Dakota Voices for Peace if they need help reviewing to make sure they have what they need and also that they go to their court dates. Caminando Juntos has also been active on social media to keep migrants informed of their rights. Go to our Facebook page or to the Facebook page for South Dakota Voices for Peace where there are lots of videos that the Hub here in Sioux Falls helped us put together. A lot of informational videos in English and in Spanish about knowing your rights, Tschetter said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) As peak summer season comes to an end, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce says vacationers from Canada were down more than a third, driven by cost concerns and political tensions. Northern tourists comprise the regions most important international market, with many coming for weeklong escapes from the cold. But businesses like RV parks say this year has been different. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You know, we probably lost 85% of our Canadian business for the summer, said Travis Thompson, general manager at Myrtle Beach Travel Park. Canadians, Thompson said, are responsible for about 25% of July reservations with most staying between 14 and 21 days. But in May, nearly all of them cancelled. They came en masse, and they werent good cancellations, he said. A common theme emerged from those who said they werent able to make the trip this year. The Canadian dollar has shifted tremendously with whats going on. I know their health insurance is different up there, so thats had an effect on how long they can be out of the country, he said. And some were just scared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Christian Petersen owns Nellies Pizza and as a Canadian himself, offers native dishes like poutine. Typically, his restaurant seeds big crowds from his native country during their March break and summer months. But like Thompons business, Nellies has also felt the impacts. With the tariff talks, peoples emotions are running wild. At the same time though, in Canada, its record high food bank usage, Petersen said. Housing prices are through the roof. Theres a lot of underlying problems where people are trying to get ahead and having a hard time doing that. Though Canadian visitation is down, Visa credit card transactions show more than $11 million in spending between January and June, the chamber said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * * * Adrianna Lawrence is a multimedia journalist at News13. Adrianna is originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia, and joined the News13 team in June 2023 after graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University in May 2023. Keep up with Adrianna on Instagram, Facebook, and X, formerly Twitter. You can also read more of her work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. Its state-of-the-art and futuristic in appearance, and Dartmouth Health leaders say it will reduce travel and wait time for cancer patients across southern New Hampshire. Inside the new radiology treatment section at Dartmouth Cancer Center on Hitchcock Way in Manchester, a two-foot-thick door slides open to reveal a bunker with four-foot-thick lead and steel walls surrounding a linear accelerator or LINAC, a machine that delivers focused radiation to malignant cells. It resembles a giant KitchenAid mixer, said Amanda Plante, chief of radiation therapy at Dartmouth Cancer Center, explaining the apparatus that is poised to change lives. It signals the start of consolidated cancer care in greater Manchester, according to Dartmouth Health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the official opening of the health systems new radiation oncology treatment center on Monday, radiation therapy for cancer will be available locally without traveling to Lebanon or Boston. Testing, planning, checkups, consultations (including remote consultations with sub-specialists in Lebanon), surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatments will be accessible under one roof for most types of cancer, according to Dartmouth medical experts. Patients can be referred there for treatment by oncologists at outside practices and other hospitals. Radiation therapy is often needed several days a week, for several weeks, Dr. Charles R. Thomas Jr., chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology and Applied Sciences at Dartmouth Cancer Center, said in a news release on Tuesday. Being able to offer this level of care in southern New Hampshire means hundreds more patients wont have to drive long distances while managing logistics, finances, fatigue and other side effects. They can stay close to home, still connected to loved ones, and still receive the same evidence-based treatment available at major academic medical centers. More than half of all cancer patients receive radiation treatment, said Deborah Scribner, vice president of oncology services at Dartmouth Cancer Center. With the 6,750-square-foot specialized facility, Its the first time comprehensive cancer care for patients in southern New Hampshire is available in one place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The radiation center, 18 years in the making, opened several weeks ago, but treatments began Monday. The equipment here is for straightforward radiation oncology procedures, said Dr. Bassem Zaki, radiation oncology medical director at Dartmouth Cancer Center, who will lead the local treatment. This is the bread-and-butter long treatment, typically of 22 to 40 sessions. Cancer center doctors Dr. Bassem Zaki, left, interim section chief for radiation oncology at Dartmouth Cancer Center, and Dr. Steven Leach, director of Dartmouth Cancer Center, stand with the LINAC the linear accelerator that will deliver focused radiation to oncology patients in Manchester. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some treatments will still require travel to Lebanon, including internal radiation, which involves inserting a device inside the body to deliver targeted radiation to cancer tissue, then extracting it, and injections with radioactive isotopes. Brain cancers and cancers in organs with unpredictable internal movement, such as the pancreas, will also be treated in Lebanon. Stereotactic body radiation, which is used to treat early, localized tumors and late-stage cancers that have metastasized, can be done in Manchester. In stereotactic body radiation, a focused high beam, along with special imaging and immobilization, delivers a high dose of radiation with minimal risk to surrounding structures, Zaki said. The Hitchcock Way facility includes three exam rooms, a waiting room, a nursing station and a room for planning and simulating the patient position for radiation. A CT scanner supplies 3D images. Inside the bunker housing the linear accelerator, cameras act as cancer visualizing assistants, including a Dose RT camera designed by Dartmouth medical and engineering schools in conjunction with the cancer center. Its a pathway to precision, said Scribner, allowing oncologists to visualize exactly where the radiation goes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incidence of cancer has been increasing statewide as New Hampshires population ages, Zaki added. The good news is that patients now live longer even with the spread of the disease. He stressed the need for patients to be screened early, and to stop smoking, which is still a major issue, whether for active or passive cancer patients. Its not just lung cancer. Its related to bladder and pancreatic cancer. If patients continue to smoke, every cancer will come back or theyll develop another one. Zaki said radiation therapy in Manchester opens the door for enrollment in research trials, better coordination of care and less fragmented treatment. Weve had outpatient oncology services here for a long time. Were finally able to offer it in one place, Dr. Joanne Conroy, president and CEO of Dartmouth Health, said Monday at the facilitys grand opening. We know there is a need in here in southern New Hampshire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This facility is going to help us realize our promise to our patients. It allows us to offer one-stop shopping and world-class treatment with a small-town face, said Dr. Steven Leach, director of Dartmouth Cancer Center. We are neighbors taking care of neighbors. We cannot be a great city without Dartmouth Health, Mayor Jay Ruais said before the ribbon cutting. There is not a single person here that has not been touched by cancer. Dartmouth Cancer Center is one of 57 comprehensive cancer treatment centers designated by the National Cancer Institute. The team behind one of the world's most-played mobile games is coming under severe scrutiny for how it's allegedly cutting corners. According to Mobilegamer.biz, King, the maker of Candy Crush, plans to lay off around 200 employees, replacing many of them with the very artificial intelligence tools they helped build. What's happening? King, owned by Microsoft, is reportedly laying off approximately 200 workers across its global offices, with large cuts hitting its Farm Heroes Saga team in London. According to internal sources cited by Mobilegamer.biz, many of those impacted include level designers, user researchers, and narrative writers several of whom were directly involved in developing the AI tools now set to replace them. Employees said morale was already low before the cuts, with one source describing the internal environment as being in "constant but low attrition." The decision was communicated in a company-wide call that one staffer described as being "read like a script," calling the move "a slap to the face." Why is this shift concerning? Swapping creative workers for AI tools might sound like a savvy business move, but it can also have environmental consequences. Generative AI doesn't just "appear" it relies on massive data centers that consume staggering amounts of electricity and water to function. While more data centers are transitioning to clean energy, many still produce significant heat-trapping pollution as they source from dirty fuels. Regardless of energy source, they can also put a strain on local resources like water and power grids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While these layoffs may help King "streamline operations," they also contribute to a broader trend of replacing human labor with energy-hungry systems systems that contribute to making our homes hotter, our air dirtier, and our planet more unstable. Unlike the creative human teams that once dreamed up new levels and storylines, AI fails to consider long-term player impact, accessibility needs, or community feedback in the same way people can. That human nuance is part of what made games like Candy Crush a global phenomenon in the first place. What's being done about it? As AI adoption accelerates, so do calls for greater oversight and responsibility. The European Union recently passed the AI Act the first major law regulating AI development and use with guardrails to protect workers and ensure transparency. In the U.S., the Federal Trade Commission has cautioned companies against using AI in ways that harm consumers or undermine fair labor practices. At the industry level, growing conversations around ethical AI use focus on reducing environmental impact, protecting creative jobs, and ensuring consent in how AI tools are trained and deployed. Some studios are rejecting full automation, opting instead to keep human creativity at the core of development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consumers can also help by supporting companies that value transparency and clean energy and by staying informed about the hidden energy costs of AI. Ethical tech begins with shared accountability. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. AUSTIN (KXAN) Akshay Gupta was stabbed and killed as an innocent bystander riding a CapMetro bus in May. He was one person who would leave an impression on you, once you met him, it was just such an impression, Guptas brother Ankur told KXAN. If he met you, he was just so selfless. Akshay Gupta (Courtesy: Noopur Gupta) As Guptas loved ones learned more about the case and about Deepak Kandel, the man arrested in the stabbing their concerns have grown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The week of the stabbing, KXAN learned via online court records that Kandel has a criminal history primarily misdemeanors dating back to 2016. The proceedings also contained several mental health evaluations. Kandel is homeless, according to a police source. When we asked the County Attorneys Office about this days after the arrest, the office said all legal efforts were exhausted to protect the community and provide this individual with treatment, pointing to struggles with the availability of state hospital beds. Stabbing victims family questions bus safety, CapMetro police force But still he was left on these streets to go and commit a big crime. I dont know what was the prosecutors approach, Ankur Gupta told KXAN in an interview. We shared part of that interview with the County Attorneys Office, circling back on our original request. The office then provided an additional statement after reviewing the video. The death of Akshay Gupta is a tragedy that is mourned by our entire community. We will continue to work tirelessly to see that the State Legislature finally meets its obligation to provide fair and adequate mental health services, so this never happens again. Our office will also continue to use every legal tool available to keep our community safe. Travis County Attorneys Office KXAN will update this story if we hear back from Kandels attorneys. The next court hearing is set for August 19. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) Retailers scrambling to stock up ahead of anticipated stiff tariffs on imports boosted the Port of Savannah, one of the top U.S. container ports, to its second-busiest year ever, Georgia officials said Tuesday. The Savannah port moved 5.7 million container units of imports and exports across its docks in the 2025 fiscal year that ended June 30, the Georgia Ports Authority reported. That's an increase of 8.6% over the prior fiscal year and just shy of the record 5.76 million container units Savannah handled in fiscal 2022. The growth was caused in part by a surge in cargo since President Donald Trump returned to office in January promising heavy tariffs on China and other U.S. trading partners. But double-digit increases Savannah saw during the spring months were followed by a sizable drop in June container volumes as Trump's on-again, off-again tactics continued to fuel uncertainty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its just going to be this very up-and-down time until things get settled," said Georgia Ports Authority CEO Griff Lynch, who praised Trump's trade deal with the European Union as a step toward restoring stability. Im sure all of it will come together. Its just a matter of timing. The Port of Savannah is the nation's No. 4 seaport for cargo shipped in containers, giant metal boxes used to transport goods ranging from consumer electronics to frozen chickens by ship, rail and truck. Uncertainty surrounding Trump's tariffs policies has resulted in gains, at least in the short term, at other major U.S. ports. A 90-day pause the Republican president placed on new tariffs announced in April gave American retailers and manufacturers a window to build up inventories ahead of new price hikes. What happens to trade volumes in the coming months may depend on a big deadline Friday, when dozens of countries face increased tariffs on goods shipped to the U.S. if they don't reach a deal with the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Port of Los Angeles, the top U.S. container port, reported its busiest June ever to close out fiscal 2025 with 10.5 million container units handled a 14% increase over the previous year. At the Port of New York and New Jersey, the biggest East Coast port, container volumes from January through May were up 6.5% compared to the same period last year. Gene Seroka, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles, told reporters earlier this month that Trump's tactics have created a whipsaw effect as shipping volumes slow down with new tariff announcements, then surge suddenly to take advantage of delayed tariff start dates. The National Retail Federation is forecasting that cargo containers shipped through U.S. ports will drop by double digits from August through November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the Port of Savannah, container volume jumped 22.5% in March to 533,995 units and remained above 500,000 container units through May. The streak ended in June, when container volumes fell 9.6% compared to a year earlier. Georgia's nearby Port of Brunswick saw automobile shipments drop 2.2% as it moved 811,042 cars and trucks in fiscal 2025. Lynch said tariffs on auto imports factored into the decline. Last year, Brunswick was the top U.S. port for automobiles after passing the Port of Baltimore, which was shut down for weeks after the deadly collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Cargo volumes appeared flat in July said Lynch, who anticipates another decline in August. But he said he's optimistic the turbulence won't be prolonged. If they can nail these tariffs down, well get back to normal trade," Lynch said. ___ This story has been corrected to show that automobiles shipped through Georgia declined 2.2% in fiscal 2025, not 16% FAIRMONT The family of a man killed in a domestic altercation is trying a new avenue in their search for justice two years after his shooting in White Hall. Michael Costello, a prison guard at North Central West Virginia Regional Jail and Corrections facility, shot Charles Echols III after midnight on July 30, 2023. Marion County Prosecuting Attorney Jeff Freeman closed the case a year after Echols' death. A backlog at the state medical examiner caused a delay in the results of the autopsy, which delayed Freeman's findings. At a press conference in 2024, Freeman disclosed that his investigation revealed Echols had trespassed into the home of a former girlfriend, Lee Ann Chacon, who was now seeing Costello. The girlfriend was a nurse at the same prison Costello where worked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freeman said a fight ensued between the two men, and Costello shot Echols III after Echols attempted to reengage with Costello after Costello gave Echols the chance to leave. However, the state's version of events has never made sense to Echols' friends and family. "People just dont die with no accountability, Amy Jones, a family friend, said in 2023. You are a trained correctional officer whos been trained to handle convicted felons and people who are awaiting a murder trial but when it comes down to it you shoot someone three times? You have no ability to physically grab an unarmed person? It doesnt make any sense. Make it make sense. Although Freeman closed the case, activist John Kemet Shabazz El has continued to pursue other avenues of accountability on behalf of the family. Now, Shabazz El has filed a civil rights complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia. The complaint asks the court to appoint an attorney on behalf of the family who was unable to afford or find an attorney during the initial investigation. Since Echols III was not a defendant, there was no constitutional need to have an attorney appointed to the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The filing in U.S. District Court names Michael Costello, Lee Ann Chacon, Marion County Sheriff's Department Shawn Davis and Freeman as defendants. It accuses Costello and Chacon of wrongful death, while charging Davis and Freeman with obstruction of justice. "We maintain that the letters from Freeman detailing that Costello shot Echols are sufficient probable cause in lieu of receiving a copy of the actual videotape statements from Costello and Chacon," Shabazz El said. "The withholding of the videos that came statements from the family and the grand jury is obstruction because these videotaped statements were concealed. The main focus is deprivation of civil rights and obstruction of justice." Shabazz El included two letters Freeman sent to Marion County Circuit Court Judge Patrick Wilson with information about the case. In a letter dated April 23, 2024, Freeman said he found no probable cause to charge Costello with any crime. At a press conference July 16, 2024, Freeman said the results from the autopsy and other evidence corroborated Costello's version of events. Further, since Echols had entered the home without permission, even though he knew the door code from living there previously, had he survived, Echols would have been charged with burglary since he was inside another person's home without an invitation. Burglary in West Virginia does not require theft of goods, only entering a structure without permission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shabazz El argues Costello should have been arrested instead of detained by police after shooting Echols. Shabazz El also interprets what Freeman details in his letters to Wilson as enough proof for probable cause. Shabazz El is not a lawyer, and did not work with a lawyer to put the federal court filing together. It's not clear what kind of chance this complaint has of going forward in court. Freeman is aware of the filing, but said the filing doesn't allege anything remotely actionable. He's not even sure if anything has actually been "filed," although the filing does appear in the Public Access to Court Electronic Records system. At least one other person with real legal experience not connected to either party suggested the filing wasn't made in the correct way. It's not even clear this is a wait and see situation. "I really don't know," Freeman said. "I don't think anything is properly filed or served." Key Points The cryptocurrency industry is getting a boost from favorable U.S. government policy. XRP has some natural long-term advantages. 10 stocks we like better than XRP Nowadays, $500 doesn't feel like much -- especially if you invest it in the S&P 500 index, where you can expect to make an average annual return of 10% (assuming historical trends remain constant). That's just $50 per year. However, the cryptocurrency industry offers the potential for significantly larger gains than traditional asset classes, like stocks or bonds, for investors who are willing to tolerate more volatility. Below I'll explore why the payments-focused token digital XRP (CRYPTO: XRP) might make an excellent long-term pick as it racks up regulatory wins in the U.S. and seeks to disrupt the market for international transactions. The regulatory climate is easing Donald Trump's presidential election victory sparked a sharp rally in many cryptocurrencies, and it isn't hard to understand why Wall Street is so optimistic. On the campaign trail, he promised to support the digital asset industry and, so far, his administration is meeting or even exceeding expectations with a raft of newly passed legislation. On July 18, Trump signed the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins (Genius) Act, which is designed to create a framework for issuing dollar-pegged stablecoins. On its face, this law helps legitimize cryptocurrency as a mainstream asset class, which will encourage businesses and institutional investors to get more involved without the fear of potentially breaking any rules. The Genius Act is a departure from the climate under the previous administration, when lawsuits and enforcement stifled crypto adoption. XRP's developer, Ripple Labs, was affected by this legal uncertainty. In 2021, Ripple lost its partnership with one of its highest-profile clients, MoneyGram, which stopped using its XRP-based liquidity solutions after Ripple was sued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) over alleged securities law violations. The case has now been largely resolved with XRP not classified as a security when sold to retail investors, although there are still discussions about settling fines related to Ripple's sales of XRP to institutional investors. Image source: Getty Images. The path to real-world utility XRP's main selling point is its focus on real-world utility. Instead of trying to be a platform for highly speculative and often useless decentralized applications (dApps), XRP focuses on the more tangible market for international payments. Its speed and low fees (0.00001 XRP per transaction) make it an ideal bridge between different currencies. Caught on camera: Stick-wielding man fights off dogs after boy, woman attacked at North Shore park A stick-wielding man managed to fight off a pair of aggressive dogs after the animals attacked a young boy and a woman at a park on the North Shore over the weekend. A Saturday afternoon in Flax Pond Park in Lynn turned frantic when two loose pit bulls bit a 5-year-old boy and a 22-year-old woman, according to the Lynn Police Department. Neighborhood resident Kyle Emerson, who witnessed the attack, told Boston 25 News that he started calling the dogs to try and turn their attention away from the victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just saw people screaming and fleeing from the park with their kids in their hands, Emerson told Boston 25 Monday. Looked like they were all fearful...I called their attention from across the street. They ran over, and I tried to keep the dogs away from any other civilians. Surveillance video showed the dogs trotting from the park down Chestnut Street and into the driveway of Emersons home, where the animals cornered him. Fortunately, Emersons father emerged with a stick in hand and fought the dogs off. Emerson told Boston 25 that hes lucky he didnt become a victim. The dogs emotions were high, our emotions were high, Emerson said. Things happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both victims were taken to the hospital with bite wounds that were not considered to be life-threatening. Police later located both of the dogs and contacted the owner. In an update shared with Boston 25 on Tuesday, Lynn police said the owner will face two counts each of failure to restrain dogs, failure to obtain rabies vaccination, and failure to license a dog with the City of Lynn. The dogs are currently on a mandatory 45-day home quarantine. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW AUSTIN (KXAN) No one was injured after a house fire in Cedar Park on Tuesday, officials with the Cedar Park Fire Department told KXAN on the scene. Crews responded to 1130 Welch Way after someone in the house smelled smoke and found the back of the house on fire, according to CPFD. Officials told KXAN there were no injuries or loss of life. However, the attic collapsed immediately, and the house is expected to be a total loss. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fire remained under investigation by officials on Tuesday. Fire crews responded to a house fire on Welch Way in Cedar Park on July 29, 2025. (KXAN Photo: Jordan Belt) Fire crews responded to a house fire on Welch Way in Cedar Park on July 29, 2025. (KXAN Photo: Jordan Belt) Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. Photo by Envato for MI SILC Each July, our community observes Disability Pride Month. Its a time to celebrate our experiences and show the world how people with disabilities move through and experience that world in a variety of different ways and that we live rich and rewarding lives that have value. We also celebrate the many wins in the disability rights movement with a special emphasis on the Americans with Disabilities Act. Signed into law by President George H. W. Bush on July 26, 1990, the ADA was a major turning point for disability rights that propelled our movement forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of this years Disability Pride Celebration, we have partnered with select public libraries across Michigan to host special ADA pop-up displays. Library visitors can explore a powerful visual timeline of the disability rights movement, learn about influential leaders in the disability community, and discover the impact the ADA has had on the lives of millions. As we said, we have much to celebrate! ADA pop-up displays at the Jackson library. Photo by Envato for MI SILC Unfortunately, todays political machinations seem intent to not just stop our momentum, but to push us backwards: drastically cutting Medicaid and implementing arduous requirements, attacking DEI (which, of course, includes people with disabilities) as if diversity, equity, and inclusion are four-letter words, shuttering the Administration for Community Living, the uncertainty around the funding for students with disabilities, a Health and Human Services Department at odds with vaccinations. It is against this backdrop that we observe Disability Pride Month in 2025. While this is a frustrating and painful time, it is important to remember that we are not in completely uncharted territory. Before its passage, the ADA had the support of voters across the country, but it was not without its detractors. Business groups opposed it, saying it cost too much and would harm businesses, especially small businesses. Greyhound Bus Lines claimed it would destroy public transportation. Evangelical Christian groups opposed it because they did not want people with HIV/AIDS protected by the ADA. And yet, despite that opposition, we prevailed. And we will prevail again. The ADA did not solve every issue of accessibility, discrimination, or stigma. There will always be work to do when it comes to protecting and expanding our rights. One of the ways we do that is by telling our stories and being clear about what we need, especially to people in positions of power. In fact, we have an easy way for members of the disability community and allies to communicate with elected leaders about crucial needs: affordable and accessible housing, accessible transportation, and access to mental health care. We must make ourselves heard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will not stop fighting for our right to live, our right to be fully included members of society, and our right to the accommodations we need to do so. We will also not stop celebrating. In the face of adversity, celebration is an act of resistance. Its a way for people with disabilities to show that we are not weak, we are not defeated, and we are not going away. Jamia Davis, Chair MI-SILC Steve Locke, Executive Director MI-SILC COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) A central Ohio woman was allegedly killed by her father-in-law on Friday while attending a wedding in Illinois, police said. Roland Schmidt, 76, of Stillman Valley, Illinois, allegedly shot and killed his daughter-in-law, Christine Moyer, 45, of Galena, outside of a Marriott hotel in a suburb of Chicago, according to the Schaumburg Police Department. Schmidt was reportedly upset at Moyer, who had filed divorce paperwork against his son, according to police. Delaware County court records show Moyer filed for divorce on July 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man indicted for Licking County karaoke bar murder pleads not guilty Moyer and her husband of 16 years moved from the Chicago area to Ohio in August 2024. They had returned to Illinois on July 23 to attend doctors appointments and a family wedding on July 25, prosecutors said. At the wedding, Moyer, her husband, Schmidt and several others all sat at the same table, prosecutors said. There was no discussion about the divorce, as only the parents knew. There were no fights or arguments. The couple had two children, who were with a babysitter at the time. Witnesses said Schmidt, who uses a cane, quickly walked toward Moyer as she was leaving the venue with several family members after the wedding. Schmidt then allegedly shot her in the back of the head, according to prosecutors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A group of people outside the hotel took Schmidt to the ground and restrained him, and one person took the gun away. Schmidt was detained, and as he was being placed in the police vehicle, he asked his son to forgive him, prosecutors said. Schmidt admitted he had made the plan to shoot Moyer a week earlier and that he also planned to take his own life. Schmidt was charged with first-degree murder. WGN reported that he was denied pre-trial release. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. Charlamagne tha God called out liberal media for overlooking former Presidenrt Bill Clintons connections to late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, saying left-leaning news organizations favor the Democrat amid reports of President Donald Trumps own ties to the disgraced financier. Its just funny how the news works. Because Bill Clinton wrote a letter to Jeffrey Epstein as well for his birthday but nobodys talking about that, Charlamagne said during a recent episode of The Breakfast Club, referencing the Wall Street Journals reporting that Trump and several notable figures, including Vera Wang, sent Epstein birthday letters as friends. More from TheWrap And Jeffrey Epstein had a picture of Bill Clinton in a dress, in high heels in his New York mansion, but nobodys talking about that, the radio host noted, referring to a reported portrait found in Epsteins mansion. NEW: Charlamagne *CALLS OUT* "liberal media" double standard over Epstein CHARLAMAGNE: "It's just funny how the news works. Because Bill Clinton wrote a letter to Jeffrey Epstein as well for his birthday but nobody's talking about that." "And Jeffrey Epstein had a picture pic.twitter.com/WmwEXANdWO Jason Cohen (@JasonJournoDC) July 29, 2025 He went on to say that he couldnt care less about ones political party everyone should be subject to the same scrutiny. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My thing is this, I dont care who is on the list everybody gotta go. Burn it all down, Charlamagne said. Its as simple as that. Mutually assured destruction. Whoever is on that list needs to go. Nobody needs to be protecting pedophiles. I dont care what party they are. When guest Morgyn Wood suggested the idea that Clinton would likely receive the same treatment if he were sitting in the White House, Charlamagne rejected the idea, saying: No, he wouldnt because liberal media wouldnt push the issue. On Monday, Trump shared his latest comments about Epstein, whom he previously called a creep, in an interview with reporters, during which he said he never had the privilege of visiting Epsteins private U.S. Virgin Islands island. I did turn it down, Trump said at the time. In one of my very good moments, I turned it down. MAJOR BREAKING: In the most disgusting moment of his presidency, Trump says he never had the privilege of going to Epstein Island. NEVER HAD THE PRIVILEGE? There is no coming back from this. Anyone who supports him now is as disgusting as he is. pic.twitter.com/LuT9g9EsVh CALL TO ACTIVISM (@CalltoActivism) July 28, 2025 The post Charlamagne Calls Out Liberal Media for Overlooking Bill Clinton-Epstein Relationship: Everybody Gotta Go appeared first on TheWrap. CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) An artificial intelligence data center that would use more electricity than every home in Wyoming combined before expanding to as much as five times that size will be built soon near Cheyenne, according to the city's mayor. Its a game changer. Its huge, Mayor Patrick Collins said Monday. With cool weather good for keeping computer temperatures down and an abundance of inexpensive electricity from a top energy-producing state, Wyoming's capital has become a hub of computing power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city has been home to Microsoft data centers since 2012. An $800 million data center announced last year by Facebook parent company Meta Platforms is nearing completion, Collins said. The latest data center, a joint effort between regional energy infrastructure company Tallgrass and AI data center developer Crusoe, would begin at 1.8 gigawatts of electricity and be scalable to 10 gigawatts, according to a joint company statement. A gigawatt can power as many as 1 million homes. But that's more homes than Wyoming has people. The least populated state, Wyoming, has about 590,000 people. And it's a major exporter of energy. A top producer of coal, oil and gas, Wyoming ranks behind only Texas, New Mexico and Pennsylvania as a top net energy-producing state, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accounting for fossil fuels, Wyoming produces about 12 times more energy than it consumes. The state exports almost three-fifths of the electricity it produces, according to the EIA. But this proposed data center is so big, it would have its own dedicated energy from gas generation and renewable sources, according to Collins and company officials. Gov. Mark Gordon praised the project's value to the state's gas industry. This is exciting news for Wyoming and for Wyoming natural gas producers," Gordon said in the statement. While data centers are energy-hungry, experts say companies can help reduce their effect on the climate by powering them with renewable energy rather than fossil fuels. Even so, electricity customers might see their bills increase as utilities plan for massive data projects on the grid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The data center would be built several miles (kilometers) south of Cheyenne off U.S. 85 near the Colorado state line. State and local regulators would need to sign off on the project, but Collins was optimistic construction could begin soon. "I believe their plans are to go sooner rather than later, Collins said. OpenAI, the developer of Chat GPT, has been scouring the U.S. for sites for a massive AI data center effort called Stargate, but a Crusoe spokesperson declined to say if the Cheyenne project was one. We are not at a stage that we are ready to announce our tenant there, said the spokesperson, Andrew Schmitt. I cant confirm or deny that is going to be one of the stargate." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recently, OpenAI announced it had switched on the first phase of a Crusoe-built data center complex in Abilene, Texas, in a partnership with software giant Oracle. To the best of our knowledge, it is the largest data center we think of it as a campus in the world, OpenAIs chief global affairs officer Chris Lehane told The Associated Press last week. It generates, roughly and depending how you count, about a gigawatt of energy. OpenAI has also been looking elsewhere in the U.S. to expand its data centers. It said last week that it has entered into an agreement with Oracle to develop another 4.5 gigawatts of data center capacity. Were now in a position where we have, in a really concrete way, identified over five gigawatts of energy that were going to be able to build around, Lehane said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OpenAI hasnt named any locations, besides its flagship site in Texas, where it plans to build data centers. As of earlier this year, Wyoming was not one of the 16 states where OpenAI said it was looking for locations to build new data centers. ___ O'Brien reported from Austin, Texas. New Release: Farm, merge, grow and expand your land in this new puzzle game! New Release: Farm, merge, grow and expand your land in this new puzzle game! The Brief A drive-by shooting wounded two men late Monday on the Near West Side. A 24-year-old man was critically injured with gunshot wounds to his legs and head. A 49-year-old man was also shot and taken to the hospital in fair condition. CHICAGO - Two men were injured in a drive-by shooting late Monday night on Chicagos Near West Side, according to police. What we know The shooting happened in the 10100 block of North Western Avenue around 10:40 p.m., police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 24-year-old man and a 49-year-old man were standing outside when someone in a moving vehicle opened fire. The 24-year-old was hit in the legs and also suffered a gunshot wound to the head. He was taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition. The 49-year-old was shot in the abdomen and buttocks and was also taken to Stroger, where he was listed in fair condition. What we don't know Police have not released a description of the vehicle or suspect, and no one is currently in custody. It's unclear if the gunfire was random or targeted. What's next Area Three detectives are investigating. The Source The information in this article was provided by the Chicago Police Department. CHICAGO (WGN) Chicago firefighters are raising concerns that equipment issues may be needlessly putting lives in danger. Earlier this summer, an early morning fire on the citys West Side claimed four lives, including a 5-year-old boy. It would later be learned, an arsonist lit the front and back of the building on fire. Arson investigators would later say he used a liquid accelerant so the fire spread fast. Thankfully, six others, four adults and two children, would be rescued by firefighters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But according to the Chicago Fire Department Union President Patrick Cleary, better rigs wouldve helped. He likens fighting fires in the city these days to fighting with one hand tied behind your back. The regularly assigned tower ladder was a spare and had an issue when firefighters arrived at the scene. They had to shut it off, wait a couple of seconds, turn it back on, and get the tower ladder to work, he said. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Cleary says a better way to rescue people instead of a ladder truck is by way of a snorkel truck. It is similar to a tower ladder with a basket, but not as far-reaching, ideal for tighter spaces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the assigned snorkel for that area was out of service. In fact, Cleary says three out of the four snorkel trucks for the entire city are out of service. When you drag people to the window, you put them in the snorkel basket. Same thing with the tower ladder. They have a basket, so now youre not carrying them down to the ground. Youre lowering them in a basket to the ground, Cleary said. When that happens, our people have to work harder. Because youre not lowering people in the basket, youre lowering them on the ground. Youre driving them to the window, handing that body to another guy on the ladder who is carrying that person down. And there are plenty of other rigs, he says, that are sidelined as well. It is all part of a bigger problem. He points to what is on display at the citys fleet maintenance repair facility at 68th and Wentworth. Cleary says many if not most of the rigs there have been there for months. Ambulances too. The number of sidelined trucks is the worst Cleary has seen in the two-plus decades hes been on CFD. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bottom line, he says, is that CFD personnel and the public at large are being put in unnecessary danger. When asked about his thoughts on this, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson says public safety is a priority, but it is also tied to available revenue. I am aware that the City of Chicago has many antiquated systems that we are working to modernize. Again, this is very much attached to how we generate revenue in the city to ensure public safety, which is my top priority, Johnson said at a news conference on July 22. We are going to continue to work to update our equipment. But again, it has to be attached to a commitment from all of us to have revenue, which will allow us to do that. WGN News also reached out to Fire Commissioner Annette Nance Holt for a comment, and through a spokesman, she said repairs are the responsibility of fleet maintenance. She did not address the union presidents charge that outdated, out-of-service equipment is putting people in peril. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to WGN News, spokesperson for CFD Larry Langford disputed that there was an issue with the tower ladder not working right away and said, Firefighters and Paramedics worked heroically to rescue trapped occupants, performed life-saving measures, and transported the injured to various hospitals. Before he was an alderman, Nick Sposato was a Chicago firefighter and says two things to happen: repairs need to be sped up and new trucks need to be purchased. Until then public safety will never be what it should be. And as politically unpopular as it may be, he said it may be time for a tax hike to generate more city revenue. Not pay more taxes and try and get through with what we have right now? To me I would rather pay more taxes, he said. But Im an elected official and thats the last thing the people want to hear me saying. But public safety is the upmost important to me. We got to upgrade our rigs. Other high-ranking officers on CFD agree with Clearys assessment that the rig situation is as bad as they have seen on the job as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of this is happening as the city and Local 2 continue to be at a standoff on contract negotiations without a pay raise. They have been working under the old contract for four years now. Johnson has ruled out a new property tax hike but other tax hikes are still on the table that could go toward buying some new much needed rigs. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. PARIS Sandro and Maje parent company SMCP reported modest growth as the French fashion group continues to pursue a strict full-price strategy and tight inventory controls to stabilize sales across its brands. In the second quarter, sales rose 3.3 percent on an organic basis, reaching 304.5 million euros. More from WWD The stabilization of the company, following overexposure in China and the subsequent shuttering of stores there, is part of chief executive officer Isabelle Guichots long-term recovery strategy. These arent overnight changes they are long-term strategic projects. We are seeing the results of what we planted over the last 18 months, she said on a call following the release of the results. Those seeds are the appointment of new chief executive officers: former marketing and investment fund exec Louise Bousquet Andreani at Fursac, and former Tara Jarmon exec Anne Cottin at Claudie Pierlot, both of whom took their respective helms earlier this year. Inventory on hand was down 13 percent year-over-year. Guichot highlighted these key initiatives, including the hiring of the new brand heads tasked with rethinking and revitalizing the groups portfolio of contemporary labels. The company has also appointed a new head of digital strategy to rebuild its online presence. All this sets us up for recovery in 2025, she said. One key market was the Americas, which delivered a standout performance in the second quarter, with sales surging 21.6 percent. Growth was fueled by price increases and higher volumes, supported by momentum from several U.S. store openings last year. We posted remarkable organic growth there, despite a competitive and uncertain environment. This growth came through both retail and partnerships including concessions and franchise partners, Guichot said. Sales in the Americas reached 49.6 million euros, despite the closure of 25 points of sale in Canada following the shutdown of Hudsons Bay locations. The company is currently seeking a new partner in Canada. Guichot said the company has raised prices in the U.S. and incorporated tariffs into its pricing model. Its consistent with our forecasts and doesnt negatively impact performance. In fact, weve historically priced U.S. collections higher than European ones, so the impact is relatively contained. Our U.S. success isnt just pricing, its volume as well, she said. A 25-year-old Chicago man has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 71-year-old man during an argument Saturday night on the citys South Side, police said. What we know Darius Barney, of the South Shore neighborhood, was arrested early Sunday morning around 12:41 a.m. in the 800 block of East 63rd Street, according to Chicago police. Investigators said Barney was identified as the attacker who, less than three hours earlier, stabbed the victim in the abdomen during an argument outside in the 100 block of West 63rd Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim, whose name has not yet been released by the Cook County medical examiners office, was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he died. Barney has been charged with one felony count of first-degree murder. He is scheduled to appear for a detention hearing Tuesday. Area Three detectives continue to investigate. The Source The information in this report came from the Chicago Police Department. The Brief A Chicago man was charged with hate crimes after multiple buildings were vandalized earlier this month. Swastikas were found spray-painted on a Latino community center and a state senator's office in Little Village. Philip Dominguez was arrested and charged over the weekend in connection with the vandalism. CHICAGO - After multiple West Side buildings were vandalized with swastikas earlier this month, a Chicago man was arrested on multiple charges, including for alleged hate crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Philip Dominguez, 38, was charged with five felony counts of hate crime, one felony count of criminal damage to property ranging from $500 to $10,000, and five misdemeanor counts of criminal damage to property of less than $500, according to the Chicago Police Department. Philip Dominguez (Chicago Police Department) What we know The arrest comes after swastikas were found spray-painted on multiple buildings in the 2700 block of W. Cermak and the 2500 block of S. Central Park in Little Village. The buildings included a Latino community center and the district office of State Sen. Celina Villanueva in the overnight hours between July 19 and July 20. A swastika was spay-painted on the window of State Sen. Celina Villanueva in Chicago on July 20, 2025. Over the weekend, police released images of the suspect and said one of the buildings had "ICE RULES" spray-painted on it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dominguez was arrested on Saturday evening in the 2400 block of S. Springfield Avenue in Little Village. Police did not reveal a possible motive for the vandalism. What's next He is expected to appear in court on Tuesday. UPDATE: Tyler has been located and has safely returned home. View the original story below: CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) The Chicopee Police Department is seeking the publics assistance in locating a runaway juvenile. Westfield police investigate break-in at Union Street apartment Police said that 15-year-old Tyler Janicki was last seen on Thursday, July 24, in the area of James Street in Chicopee. He was wearing a red shirt and blue jeans and may have been riding a green bicycle. Courtesy of the Chicopee Police Department. Tyler is described as having a brown/blonde buzz cut, brown eyes, 510 tall, and 200 pounds. If you see Tyler or have any information regarding his whereabouts, you are urged to contact Chicopee Detectives at 413-594-1740 or Dispatch at 413-594-1700. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Children, with one of their teachers, at the Waunakee child care center operated by Heather Murray. (Photo courtesy of Heather Murray) I have owned and operated a child care center for the past 19 years. Not only do I make sure staff and the bills are paid, I clean toilets, clean windows and change diapers. I have devoted my life to educating and caring for young children. I didnt go into this profession to line my pockets with money. But everyone in my field deserves a living wage and to know they are supported in their community. My goal is to create a safe and nurturing learning environment for the children who enter my center. My belief is that their parents have decided to partner with us to make sure their children are getting the best possible environment to learn and grow. Creating this high-quality environment for children has become increasingly hard over the years for child care providers in Wisconsin. Parents cant pay more and providers need to keep qualified staff and pay them a liveable wage. For my center, wages for employees went up by $4 an hour recently to keep up with the other businesses in my community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I started advocating and organizing around child care and early education right before the latest state budget cycle. I found there were some pretty big hurdles to jump over to get our legislators to listen to child care providers. Ive heard legislators tell providers all you want is money. Ive heard them say these women just need to learn how to run their business. My favorite observation is: We dont need child care. Women should just stay home and take care of their children. It wasnt easy to get anyone at the Capitol to take providers seriously. In the last state budget child care received no funding. Wisconsin was one of six states that did not put any state money into child care or early education. Gov. Evers did find a way to support providers with direct payments using federal money, which helped keep many providers doors open throughout the state. Meanwhile, advocates and early educators kept coming to hearings, talking about what we do on a daily basis and how that is important to our communities and the state. Providers across Wisconsin held Community Conversations and Day Without Childcare events. Many elected officials from both sides of the aisle received tours of centers. Providers also sent letters to the editor and talked with every type of news outlet that would listen. I am so proud of all the providers who stepped up and continued to push this message that what we do is important and we deserve support. As a result, ideas at the Capitol started to shift. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I spoke to legislators from both sides of the aisle. I heard legislators starting to talk about the child care crisis and realize that it wasnt happening just because we didnt know how to run our businesses. They started to say out loud that parents shouldnt have to pay 25% of their income for child care. Legislators who previously wouldnt have said they supported child care investment said they would try and get something done. In the end, the new state budget wasnt ideal but it did do two things: Direct payments will continue to go to providers for the next year and early education is finally funded with state dollars in the Wisconsin budget. Does this budget solve everything? No. Does it provide the $330 million Evers sought in direct payments to providers? No. Did Wisconsin for the first time put state money into early education? Yes including $110 million in direct payments to providers Does it deregulate child care, increasing the number of infants and toddlers one staff person can care for and allowing 16-year-olds to count as full-time assistants? Yes. Child care center operator Heather Murray and some of the children in her care look out over the neighorhood outside Murrays center in Waunakee. (Photo courtesy of Heather Murray) I absolutely do not think deregulation is the answer to the child care crisis. I believe it is harmful to children. I will not be participating in the deregulated infant/toddler program outlined in this budget. I know I cannot get staff in my center to continue work when I ask them to take care of three more toddlers on their own. A single teacher in this proposed program would take care of seven toddlers ages 18 months and up. Right now that same teacher is expected to care for four toddlers that age. Even though some states have this ratio, the National Association for the Education of Young Children clearly states best practice is 1:4 for this age group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would also not hire a 16-year-old as an assistant teacher to add to my staff. I dont believe 16-year-olds are ready to handle large groups of small children and provide the quality time and interaction they need; 16-year-olds are still children themselves. And since they are in school themselves, they are not that much help with the labor shortages centers experience all day long. Im grateful that Gov. Evers made child care a priority, and that our state finally joined the majority of other states in providing some support for this essential resource in the state budget. Advocating for policy changes is a constant back and forth. Much of the time you dont get what you want. This means that we must go back in two years, to make Wisconsins child care support better and more durable. Child care advocates have created a strong network and we are not done advocating for the change needed for providers to keep their doors open and for educators to earn a living wage. I believe child care is infrastructure and a public good. Together with other child care providers, I will continue to advocate and educate our leaders about how a well supported child care system is essential to our community and our economy. Heather Murray (seated at the lower right, in the dark gray shirt) along with some of the children from her child care center, joined state legislators in the Wisconsin Capitol to show their support for a child care investment in the state budget. (Photo courtesy of Heather Murray) SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Oklahoma House lawmakers will discuss childhood hunger, teacher recruitment and retention, energy needs and more this fall ahead of the 2026 legislative session. House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, approved dozens of hearings requested by legislators to look into a variety of issues and how they impact Oklahoma. The interim studies serve as a valuable tool for lawmakers to take a deeper look at topics that may require further review or data gathering before formal legislation is considered, according to a statement issued by Hilbert's office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A list released by the Oklahoma House on Friday, July 25, shows more than 100 studies will be held. Hilbert said the studies help legislators prepare for the next session, explore ideas for new laws and build public support for those proposals. House Speaker Kyle Hilbert approved several hearings for the interim study period. Oklahoma House interim studies for 2025 Here are some of the approved studies that committees will be hearing during the interim study period, which will begin on Friday, Aug. 1, and end on Nov. 6. Childhood hunger: According to Feeding America, one in four children face hunger in Oklahoma.Democratic Reps. Annie Menz, of Norman; John Waldron, of Tulsa; and Ellen Pogemiller, of Oklahoma City, requested this interim study to focus on childhood poverty, as well as causes and solutions. It will be held by the Children, Youth and Family Services committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teacher recruitment and retention: Oklahoma's education system ranked 50th out of 51 states, plus the District of Columbia, in WalletHub's latest study. Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, R-Elgin, will lead a hearing to dive into what is actually happening in Oklahoma with teacher recruitment, retention and potential outcomes. Strengthening relations among the state, tribal nations and municipalities: Led by Rep. Amanda Clinton, D-Tulsa, this hearings goal is to look at ways to strengthen intergovernmental relationships. It will do so by reviewing current policies, identifying best practices, examining barriers and exploring solutions, exploring other states models in intergovernmental relations and considering potential legislation or administrative changes. Rep. Mark Chapman is one of the representatives who authored the Oklahoma Energy Needs proposal, which was approved. Oklahoma energy needs: This hearing will be held by the Utilities Committee and will focus on providing data for energy resources. Proposed by Republican Reps. Mark Chapman, of Broken Arrow, and Mike Dobrinski, of Okeene, this interim study aspires to assist in making economic and policy decisions. Ethics of AI use and AI in education: These interim studies will be a part of the same hearing held by the Government Modernization and Technology Committee, as requested by Rep. Arturo Alonso-Sandoval, D-Oklahoma City. Lawmakers will investigate the ethical responsibilities of artificial intelligence use and how the legal system may adapt to address them. They will also discuss ways to incorporate AI into Oklahoma's public education system. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma House lawmakers will hold hearings on these issues in summer Long seen in the West as a byword for the Chinese Communist Partys heavy-handedness, the one-child policy became a trope for Chinese authoritarianism. While the policy was officially scrapped in 2015 after years of looser enforcement, China now faces unprecedentedly low birth rates and has announced it will begin offering childcare subsidies for the first, second and third child up to the age of three, starting this year. Under the plan, families will receive what the government calls a fertility bonus of 3,600 yuan or just over 430 per child until the age of three. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the national government will pay this base amount, local authorities are free to top it up depending on their own resources. The CCP said the nationwide rollout of cash subsidies will help ease the pressure of childcare expenses and will help to prevent a further decline in the fertility rate. Crucially, the subsidies will be tax-exempt and excluded from calculations of household or individual income, ensuring they do not affect eligibility for minimum living allowances or extreme poverty assistance. Related Why now? In 2024, Chinas total fertility (TFR) rate the average number of children a woman is expected to have over her lifetime according to current patterns was around 1.15 children per woman. That's among the worlds lowest and below the so-called replacement level of 2.1, meaning the baseline for the population size to stay the same. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Demographers use these rates to measure whether a population is shrinking, growing or staying the same. The goal of the new policy would not be to expand the population, but to keep it at a relatively similar size without seeing it skew too heavily towards an ageing population. The latter is a problem faced by many European economies. According to the World Health Organization, by 2040, around 28% of Chinas population will be over the age of 60, threatening to disrupt what used to be a growing labour force and competitive wages. This also skews the dependency ratio, with funds in the economy going to supporting elderly relatives, increased healthcare costs and pensions. In 2022, Chinas population shrank for the first time since 1961, marking a yearly drop of 850,000 people as deaths outnumbered births. In 2023, the worst year on record, the population fell by approximately 2.08 million, and the decline continued in 2024 improving only slightly as it fell by 1.39mn. Shenzhen is often called the miracle city of China because it embodies the countrys transition from a closed, planned economy to a global powerhouse. - Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. Chinese growth miracle is reversed In 1978, China went through political and economic reforms, including opening up parts of its economy to combat rural poverty and absorbing hundreds of millions of workers into its labour force. It is widely considered one of the fastest economic transformations in history, with China becoming the biggest net exporter in the world and its economy growing an average of about 9.5% per year until 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of course, the economic clout came with political and diplomatic power. Now, the population decline could lead to China falling on the wrong side of the demographic dividend as its pool of available labour shrinks. Ultra-low fertility economies China is not the only Asian country to suffer from this problem and its effects on the economy. Several Asian countries are now considered ultra-low fertility economies, where population decline has become very steep and hard to reverse even with pro-natalist policies like the child subsidy. A mix of economic, cultural and demographic dynamics may reinforce a cycle of fewer births in these countries. Economically, this erodes the very demographic dividend that once fuelled the explosive growth of East Asias richest countries. China may soon gain greater influence over the Panama Canal following the collapse of a proposed deal between U.S.-based BlackRock and Hong Kongs CK Hutchison, which had initially sparked tensions with Beijing. The original agreement would have transferred control of dozens of international ports including two in Panama to a consortium involving BlackRock. The deal was reportedly welcomed by former President Donald Trump, who voiced support for reducing Chinese influence over the canal and even floated the idea of the U.S. "taking back" the strategic waterway. However, Beijing pushed back. China advocated for state-owned shipping giant Cosco to be included in the transaction, signaling its desire for a direct stake, not just an indirect one through the Hong Kong-based Hutchison, in the canals operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amid mounting pressure from China and the threat of an anti-monopoly investigation, CK Hutchison announced Monday that the exclusive negotiation window with BlackRock had expired. However, the company also signaled its openness to reconfiguring the deal. China, Hong Kong Threaten To Thwart Sale Of Panama Canal Ports To America's Blackrock It said it would "remain open to discussions with a view to inviting a major strategic investor from the [Peoples Republic of China] to join as a significant member of the consortium." According to the company, changes in deal structure and participant makeup are necessary to gain approval from "all relevant authorities." Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The original $23 billion deal involved transferring ownership of 43 ports across 23 countries including the two critical Panamanian ports located at either end of the canal in Balboa and Cristobal. CK Hutchison has operated both since 1997. The firm is owned by the family of Hong Kongs wealthiest man, Li Ka-shing. Chinas growing footprint in Latin American infrastructure has long raised bipartisan alarms in Washington. However, Trump stands out as the first modern U.S. president to suggest reclaiming the Panama Canal, which the U.S. completed in 1914 and handed over to Panama in 1999 under a treaty signed in 1977 during the Carter administration. Chinas Billion-dollar Footprint Near Florida Coast Poses Us National Security Risk, Expert Warns "China is operating the Panama Canal, and we didnt give it to China we gave it to Panama and were taking it back," Trump recently declared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One analyst believes China may ultimately be excluded from the Panama port holdings while gaining control of most other assets in the larger deal. "China will insist this be the quid pro quo: that the other global ports have Cosco participation. And obviously, Cosco is already a major global port holder," said Dane Chamorro, head of Global Risk Analysis at consulting firm Control Risks, in an interview with Fox News Digital. "From a U.S. perspective, they might say, Okay, greatwe got Hutchison, or China (since they tend to refer to them interchangeably), out of the two Panama ports. But in the long run, that may result in even more ports globally ending up in the hands of a Chinese state-owned entity." If that happens, Cosco through this broader consolidation would become "far and away the dominant port owner and operator globally," Chamorro said. "That aligns with the fact that China is the worlds largest trading economy, the largest manufacturing economy, and the largest shipbuilder." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chamorro also noted that U.S. companies do not operate on the same global scale in the port industry as Chinese, Hong Kong or Singaporean firms. The failed Hutchison-BlackRock deal underscores the precarious position of Hong Kong businesses under growing pressure from Beijing to prioritize national loyalty even when it threatens ties with Western partners. Meanwhile, Panama insists it retains full sovereignty over the canal itself and maintains that Hutchisons operation of the port facilities does not grant China any influence over canal operations. Original article source: China may gain greater control of Panama Canal after BlackRock deal misses deadline China is offering couples a subsidy to have children. The countrys government will pay $500 per year until the child is three years old. The move comes as concerns about Chinas birth rate grow. Some parts of the country are paying considerably more to couples that have kids. China, like many other countries, is worried about its birth rateand its offering would-be parents a financial incentive to have children. The countrys government on Monday rolled out a new subsidy program, which will offer parents 3,600 yuan (about $500) per year for each child up until they reach the age of 3. Subsidies will start from this year, with partial subsidies for children under 3 born prior to 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinas population was down for the third consecutive year in 2024. Rising child care costs, economic concerns and job uncertainty are being pointed to as the reason. Its a substantial about-face for the nation, which from 1980 through 2015, adopted a one-child policy. (It began allowing families to have two children in 2016 and three children in 2021.) Chinas central government will pay the $500 subsidy, though some experts question if that amount will be enough to encourage couples to start families. Some provinces are upping the ante. Hohhot, in Inner Mongolia, for instance, is offering up to 100,000 yuan (just under $14,000) per child to families with three or more kids. Thats a 2,000% increase over what it began offering in 2023. That subsidy will be paid out at a rate of 10,000 yuan per year until the child turns 10. Chinas population is getting older, wealthier, and better educated. Two decades ago, Chinas median age was 32; now, its just past 40. Whats greatly concerning officials is the decline in the countrys working-age population, which fuels its manufacturing industries. That industry is already under pressure from the trade war with the U.S., which is further threatened by Donald Trumps tariff threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Babies today wont immediately fix that, but it will protect Chinas interests in years to come. (Children as young as 6 years old are already being offered AI classes in the country.) Subsidies might help, but Emma Zang, a professor at Yale University, tells NBC News that a more effective strategy would be an investment in infrastructure, such as affordable child care, parental leave, and job protections for women. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com Chinese and American trade negotiators concluded their two-day meeting in Stockholm without a resolution to avert tariffs from skyrocketing back to ultra-high levels that formed an effective blockade on trade between the worlds two largest economies. But President Donald Trumps trade advisers and their Chinese counterparts sounded a hopeful note. Without an agreement, the United States and China are set to once again place historic tariffs on each others imports starting August 12. However, speaking to reporters from Stockholm, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the two-day meeting was constructive and suggested that a deal to extend the tariff pause was likely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just to tamp down that rhetoric, the meetings were very productive, Bessent said. We just havent been given that signoff. They said that no decision had been made yet about whether to extend the pause on each countrys extraordinary tariffs because Trump needs to make that decision. With respect to a potential pause, were going to head back to Washington, DC, were going to talk to the president about whether thats something that he wants to do, Greer said. Trump, speaking with reporters Tuesday, also added a hopeful note. I just had a phone call from Scott [Bessent], and he had a very good meeting with China, Trump said. And it seems that they are going to brief me tomorrow, and well either approve it or not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also added that he plans to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping by the end of this year. Li Chenggang, the International Trade Representative for the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, told reporters Tuesday that both sides will continue to push for the scheduled extension, according to CCTV, a Chinese state media outlet. Bessent disputed any notion that Lis comments should be taken to mean that an extension was agreed upon just yet. The Chinese deputy minister did say that we had agreed on a pause. We have not. Nothing is agreed until we speak with President Trump, Bessent said, answering a question about whether there was an agreement to extend the August 12 deadline. Greer added, The president has discretion to change the rate depending on the circumstances that we have. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent speaks at a press conference in Stockholm after trade talks between the United States and China concluded on July 29. - Magnus Lejhall/AFP/TT News Agency/Getty Images Later, in an interview with CNBC, Bessent said, I think our Chinese counterparts have jumped the gun a little. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May, China agreed to lower tariffs on American goods from 125% to 10%, while the US agreed to lower tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%. Greer said that tariffs on Chinese goods shipped to the US could jump by around an additional 34% if a deal is not agreed on by August 12 below the 145% peak level. Delegates also discussed Chinas continued purchase of sanctioned Russian oil. Bessent said he warned his Chinese counterparts that such a move would bring about huge tariffs, under legislation in Congress that allows Trump to impose tariffs up to 500% on goods from countries buying sanctioned oil from Russia. Trump again on Monday threatened 100% secondary tariffs on those countries unless Russia reaches a major peace deal with Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Chinese take their sovereignty very seriously. We dont want to impede on their sovereignty, so theyd like to pay a 100% tariff, Bessent said, in response to questions about Chinese officials response. Bessent said he also voiced concerns and regrets about Chinas sales of over $15 billion worth of dual-use technology equipment to Russia, and its purchase of sanctioned Iranian oil. Rare-earth sticking point This latest round of talks started on Monday. It was the third such meeting, following a 90-day truce reached in Geneva in May and a further hammering out of that framework in London in June after it appeared the Geneva agreement was on the verge of collapse. Among the key issues the two nations agreed upon in past sessions were lowering tariffs and increasing the supply of rare earth magnets to US companies for use in a wide variety of crucial electronics a promise the Trump administration has continued to accuse China of violating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After winning some concessions from China in exchange for lower tariffs and a loosening of restrictions on some key technologies, Trump eased off the confrontational tone he took on China in months past. The White House, in the meantime, lifted its ban on sales of a key Nvidia AI chip to China earlier this month. And Beijing suspended its antitrust investigation into DuPont. China also announced it would add two more components used to make fentanyl to its list of controlled substances a potential precursor to the Trump administration lifting its 20% additional tariff on China put in place to incentivize the country to reduce the amount of the deadly drug flowing into the United States. But the Treasury Secretary on Tuesday said that Chinese export controls on rare-earth minerals continue to be a sticking point. We keep pushing them to work on that, Bessent said on CNBC. Its the entire global supply chain because the restrictions or the controls arent just on the US, its on every country. So we discussed that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bessent said he and Greer also pushed Chinese trade representatives to rebalance their economy toward more of a consumer economy, away from a manufacturing economy, likely meaning an economy that is less reliant on exporting goods to other countries. The Trump administration has also sought Chinas blessing on a deal that would allow a US buyer to take control of the US TikTok business after Congress banned the app a law that Trump paused when he took office. But Bessent said TikTok was not part of the latest discussions. Bessent and Greers meeting comes on the heels of Trumps announcement that a trade agreement was reached with the European Union. The agreement calls for 15% tariffs on goods from there versus the 30% rate he threatened to enact on Friday, when a slew of tariffs on other nations goods could take effect absent trade agreements. In addition to the EU, Trump announced a handful of other trade agreements over the course of this month. However, in the case of Vietnam, its unclear what, if anything, has been mutually agreed upon. Details of the agreement are few and far between beyond a Truth Social post Trump wrote earlier this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bessent declined to answer if the Vietnamese government signed off on what Trump announced, saying that he wasnt involved in that. But he said he would assume that theres a mutual agreement with Vietnam. This story has been updated with additional developments and context. CNNs Fred He and John Liu contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Chinese and US delegations met for their second day of trade negotiations in Stockholm, with both sides said to be aiming to extend a truce due to end in two weeks' time. AFP journalists saw officials from both sides, led respectively by Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, enter the Swedish government building serving as the talks venue. Neither side has so far made public any information about what has gone on in the talks, which started on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The negotiations are happening in the wake of a US-EU trade deal struck over the weekend that set US tariffs on most EU imports at 15 percent, but none on US goods going to the EU. The truce between China and the United States, the countries with the worlds two top economies, has temporarily set US duties on Chinese goods at 30 percent, and Chinese levies on US ones at 10 percent. That accord, reached in Geneva in May, brought down triple-digit tariffs each side had levelled at the other after a trade war sparked by US President Donald Trump spiralled into a tit-for-tat bilateral escalation. The 90-day truce is meant to end on August 12. But there are indications both delegations want to use the Stockholm talks to push the date back further. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The South China Morning Post, citing sources on both sides, reported on Sunday that Washington and Beijing are expected to extend their tariff pause by a further 90 days. - Trump's threats - Trump has threatened to hit dozens of other countries with stiffer tariffs from Friday this week unless they agree to trade deals with Washington. Among them are Brazil and India, which he has warned could be targeted for 50-percent tariffs. The US leader has already announced deal outlines with five countries -- Britain, Vietnam, Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines -- as well as the one with the 27-nation EU. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beijing says it wants to see "reciprocity" in its trade with the United States. Foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said dialogue was need "to reduce misunderstandings". The previous round of of China-US talks was held in London. Analysts said many of the trade deals Trump has been publicising were leaning more on optics than on details. Stephen Innes, managing partner at SPI Asset Management, a firm that advises on currency exchange and commodities, said an extension of the 90-day truce between China and the United States could reinforce that view. "That truce could set the stage for a Trump (President) Xi (Jinping) handshake later this year -- another risk-on carrot for markets to chew," he said. nzg/phy/rmb/rl By Akbar Novruz The prospects of strengthening cooperation in the field of urban planning between Azerbaijan and Jordan were discussed during a meeting in Baku, Azernews reports, citing the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture. Chairman of the Committee Anar Guliyev met with the Ambassador of Jordan to Azerbaijan, Omar Barakat al-Nahar, where both sides exchanged views on expanding ties in urban development, construction, and settlement planning. They underscored the importance of establishing direct links between relevant institutions in both countries. During the meeting, Guliyev highlighted Azerbaijans ongoing urban development projects, including those aligned with modern, human-centered planning standards in Baku and across the liberated territories. Ambassador al-Nahar praised the scale and quality of construction works in Garabagh and Eastern Zangezur, particularly the efforts to create livable, secure conditions for returning residents. The meeting also touched upon Jordans support for the Declaration on Multisectoral Pathways for Sustainable and Healthy Cities, which was adopted during COP29, hosted by Azerbaijan. Guliyev conveyed appreciation for this support and reaffirmed the countrys commitment to sustainable urban transformation. Concluding the meeting, the Azerbaijani side extended an invitation to Jordan to participate in the 3rd Azerbaijan National Urban Planning Forum and the 13th World Urban Forum, scheduled to be held in Baku from May 1722, 2026. Edison International (NYSE:EIX) is among the 13 Best Electrical Infrastructure Stocks to Invest In. A Wildfire Recovery Compensation Program for Eaton Fire victims will be launched by Edison International (NYSE:EIX)s company, Southern California Edison (SCE), and is anticipated to start this fall. Southern California Edison to Launch Eaton Fire Wildfire Compensation Program This Fall Photo by Matthew Henry on Unsplash The voluntary program covers damages like structural damage, business interruption, smoke, ash, injuries, and fatalities, and seeks to provide prompt, equitable compensation to affected persons and businesses. Nationally renowned compensation fund administration specialists Kenneth Feinberg and Camille Biros are consulting on the initiatives design. Pedro J. Pizarro, president of SCE and CEO of Edison International (NYSE:EIX), pointed out the significance of offering financial assistance prior to the conclusion of the fire investigation so that impacted communities can concentrate on reconstruction. The program will continue to run until 2026 and will not charge administrative, legal, or application expenses. Feinberg and Biros, recognized for their work on the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, will guide program structure but not claim evaluations. Edison International (NYSE:EIX)s SCE continues to invest in grid resilience, with 63 miles of undergrounding in Altadena. It is one of the Best Electrical Equipment Stocks. While we acknowledge the potential of EIX as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 10 High-Growth EV Stocks to Invest In and 13 Best Car Stocks to Buy in 2025. Disclosure. None. An appellate court appears poised to side with the federal judge who blocked immigration agents from conducting "roving patrols" and snatching people off the streets of Southern California, likely setting up another Supreme Court showdown. Arguments in the case were held Monday before a three-judge panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, with the judges at times fiercely questioning the lawyer for the Trump administration about the constitutionality of seemingly indiscriminate sweeps by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. "I'm just trying to understand what would motivate the officers ... to grab such a large number of people so quickly and without marshaling reasonable suspicion to detain," said Judge Ronald M. Gould of Seattle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: 9th Circuit upholds block on background checks for California ammunition buyers Earlier this month, a lower court judge issued a temporary restraining order that has all but halted the aggressive operations by masked federal agents, saying they violate the 4th Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. The Justice Department called the block that was ordered by U.S. District Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong "the first step" in a "wholesale judicial usurpation" of federal authority. "Its a very serious thing to say that multiple federal government agencies have a policy of violating the Constitution," Deputy Assistant Atty. Gen. Yaakov M. Roth argued Monday. "We don't think that happened, and we don't think it's fair we were hit with this sweeping injunction on an unfair and incomplete record." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That argument appeared to falter in front of the 9th Circuit panel. Judges Jennifer Sung of Portland, Ore., and Marsha S. Berzon of San Francisco heard the case alongside Gould all drawn from the liberal wing of an increasingly split appellate division. "If youre not actually doing what the District Court found you to be doing and enjoined you from doing, then there should be no harm, Sung said. Frimpong's order stops agents from using race, ethnicity, language, accent, location or employment as a pretext for immigration enforcement across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. The judge found that without other evidence, those criteria alone or in combination do not meet the 4th Amendment bar for reasonable suspicion. "It appears that they are randomly selecting Home Depots where people are standing looking for jobs and car washes because theyre car washes," Berzon said. "Is your argument that its OK that its happening, or is your argument that its not happening?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roth largely sidestepped that question, reiterating throughout the 90-minute hearing that the government had not had enough time to gather evidence it was following the Constitution and that the court did not have authority to constrain it in the meantime. Read more: Trump administration asks appeals court to lift restrictions on SoCal immigration raids Arguments in the case hinge on a pair of dueling Golden State cases that together define the scope of relief courts can offer under the 4th Amendment. "It's the bulwark of privacy protection against policing," said professor Orin S. Kerr of Stanford Law School, whose work on 4th Amendment injunctions was cited in the Justice Department's briefing. "What the government can do depends on really specific details. That makes it hard for a court to say heres the thing you cant do." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In policing cases, every exception to the rule has its own exceptions, the expert said. The Department of Justice has staked its claim largely on City of Los Angeles vs. Lyons, a landmark 1983 Supreme Court decision about illegal chokeholds by the Los Angeles Police Department. In that case, the court ruled against a blanket ban on the practice, finding the Black motorist who had sued was unlikely to ever be choked by the police again. "That dooms plaintiffs' standing here," the Justice Department wrote. But the American Civil Liberties Union and its partners point to other precedents, including the San Diego biker case Easyriders Freedom F.I.G.H.T. vs. Hannigan. Decided in the 9th Circuit in 1996, the ruling offers residents of the American West more 4th Amendment protection than they might have in Texas, New York or Illinois. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Easyriders case, 14 members of a Southland motorcycle club successfully blocked the California Highway Patrol from citing almost any bikers they suspected of wearing the wrong kind of helmet, after the court ruled a more narrow decision would leave the same bikers vulnerable to future illegal citations. "The court said these motorcyclists are traveling around the state, so we can't afford the plaintiff's complete relief unless we allow this injunction to be statewide," said professor Geoffrey Kehlmann, who directs the 9th Circuit Appellate Clinic at Loyola Law School. "In situations like this, where you have roving law enforcement throughout a large area and you have the plaintiffs themselves moving throughout this large area, you necessarily need to have that broader injunction," Kehlmann said. Frimpong cited Easyriders among other precedent cases in her ruling, saying it offered a clear logic for the districtwide injunction. The alternative agents sweeping through car washes and Home Depot parking lots stopping to ask each person they grab if they are a plaintiff in the suit "would be a fantasy," she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another expert, Erwin Chemerinsky, dean of the UC Berkeley School of Law, said the Los Angeles Police Department chokehold case set a standard that litigants "need to show its likely it could happen to you again in the future." But, he added: "The 9th Circuit has said, here's ways you can show that." The tests can include asking whether the contested enforcement is limited to a small geographic area or applied to a small group of people, and whether it is part of a policy. "After the injunction here, the secretary of Homeland Security said, Were going to continue doing what were doing," Berzon said. "Is that not a policy?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roth denied that there was any official policy driving the sweeps. "Plaintiffs [argue] the existence of an official policy of violating the 4th Amendment with these stops," Roth said. "The only evidence of our policy was a declaration that said, 'Yes, reasonable suspicion is what we require when we go beyond a consensual encounter.'" But Mohammad Tajsar of the ACLU of Southern California, part of a coalition of civil rights groups and individual attorneys challenging cases of three immigrants and two U.S. citizens swept up in chaotic arrests, argued that the federal policy is clear. "They have said, 'If it ends in handcuffs, go out and do it,'" he told the panel. "Theres been a wink and a nod to agents on the ground that says, 'Dispatch with the rigors of the law and go out and snatch anybody out there.'" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said that put his organization's clients in a similar situation to the bikers. "The government did not present any alternatives as to what an injunction could look like that would provide adequate relief to our plaintiffs," Tajsar said. "That's fatal to any attempt by them to try to get out from underneath this injunction." The Trump administration's immigration enforcement tactics, he said, are "likely to ensnare just as many people with status as without status." The Justice Department said ICE already complies with the 4th Amendment, and that the injunction risks a "chilling effect" on lawful arrests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If its chilling ICE from violating the Constitution, that's where theyre supposed to be chilled," Chemerinsky said. A ruling is expected as soon as this week. Roth signaled the administration is likely to appeal if the appellate panel does not grant its stay. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Christopher Nolan has been criticized for shooting elements of Universals all-star epic The Odyssey in Morocco-occupied Western Sahara. Earlier this month, the British director filmed for four days near the coastal city of Dakhla, which is part of a region that the United Nations has designated as a nonselfgoverning territory since 1963. More from Deadline Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Western Sahara, which has become a magnet for big-budget shoots like the Prime Video series The Wheel of Time, is not legally part of Morocco, but the U.S. and UK are among Western governments to recently endorse the North African nations claim over the land. The Western Sahara International Film Festival (FiSahara), which takes place in the Sahrawi refugee camps in Algeria, called on Nolan to urgently halt shooting in the region. Universal has been contacted for comment. Dakhla is not just a beautiful location with cinematic sand dunes. Primarily, it is an occupied, militarised city whose indigenous Sahrawi population is subject to brutal repression by occupying Moroccan forces, the festival said. By filming part of The Odyssey in an occupied territory billed as a news black hole by Reporters Without Borders, Nolan and his team, perhaps unknowingly and unwillingly, are contributing to the repression of the Sahrawi people by Morocco. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, FiSahara continued: We are sure that were they to understand the full implications of filming such a high-profile film in a territory whose indigenous peoples are unable to make their own films about their stories under occupation, Nolan and his team would be horrified. Morocco routinely touts Sahrawi cultural expressions as uniquely Moroccan. They created a film festival in Dakhla to counter ours, and produce high-budget films that portray Western Sahara as part of Morocco. However, Sahrawis trying to make films about their lives are persecuted and must work clandestinely and at great risk to themselves and their families. FiSahara has been supported by actors including Javier Bardem and Penelope Cruz in the past. Bardem posted the FiSahara statement regarding The Odyssey, arguing that Dakhla was converted by the Moroccan occupiers into a tourist destination and now a film set, always with the aim of erasing the Sahrawi identity of the city. The Odyssey is led by Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Zendaya, Anne Hathaway, Lupita Nyongo, Robert Pattinson, Benny Safdie, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal, Himesh Patel, Elliott Page, Bill Irwin, Samantha Morton, Jesse Garcia, Will Yun Lee and Corey Hawkins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The film, currently set for a release in Imax on July 17, 2026, has been shooting at locations in Morocco, Italy, Ireland, and Scotland. Based on Homers epic poem, the story follows Odysseus (played by Damon), King of Ithaca, on his dangerous journey home after the Trojan War. During his voyage, the protagonist faces Polyphemus the Cyclops, Sirens, the nymph Calypso and the witch goddess Circe in the treacherous oceans that separate him from his island home and wife Penelope, who unravels a wedding train that she weaves every night in the event that one of the suitors who have taken over her home ends up marrying her should her husband not return. Odysseus memory is also guarded by his son Telemachus (Holland). The story also features gods including Athena, Poseidon and Zeus. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Christopher Nolan is facing criticism for filming parts of his upcoming The Odyssey in the Western Sahara, 70% of which is occupied by Morocco. The director recently spent four days filming in the highly anticipated historical epic which stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya and more in the city of Dakhla, which has been deemed the capital of the Moroccan administrative region of Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab. Western Sahara is a disputed territory and is classified as non-self-governing by the United Nations. Home to the Indigenous Sahrawi people, its the last remaining African colonial state to achieve independence with Morocco still claiming control over the majority of its land. However, a Morocco-proposed plan giving Western Sahara autonomy but Morocco ultimate sovereignty similar to Spains relationship to the Canary Islands and Basque Country picked up steam last year with the support of the U.S., U.K. and France. More from Variety Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, after the shoot had wrapped in the region, the Western Sahara International Film Festival (aka FiSahara) which takes place in Sahrawi refugee camps in Algeria put out a statement urging Nolan to stop production. Representatives for Universal and Nolan did not immediately respond to Varietys request for comment. Dakhla is not just a beautiful place with cinematic sand dunes. First and foremost, it is an occupied and militarized city whose Indigenous Sahrawi population is subjected to brutal repression by the Moroccan occupation forces, the festival said, adding that the production should stop filming in Dakhla and stand in solidarity with the Sahrawi people who have been under military occupation for 50 years and who are routinely imprisoned and tortured for their peaceful struggle for self-determination. Added festival director Maria Carrion: By filming part of The Odyssey in an occupied territory classified as a journalistic desert by Reporters Without Borders, Nolan and his team, perhaps unwittingly, are contributing to Moroccos repression of the Sahrawi people and to the Moroccan regimes efforts to normalize its occupation of Western Sahara. Were sure that if they understood the full implications of filming a high-profile movie in a territory whose Indigenous peoples are unable to make their own films about their stories under occupation, Nolan and his team would be horrified. Javier Bardem, who has appeared at FiSahara in the past, posted the festivals statement on his Instagram with the caption: For 50 years, Morocco has occupied Western Sahara, expelling the Sahrawi people from their cities. Dakhla is one of them, converted by the Moroccan occupiers into a tourist destination and now a film set, always with the aim of erasing the Sahrawi identity of the city. Another illegal occupation, another repression against a people, the Sahrawi, unjustly plundered with the approval of Western governments, including the Spanish. #FreeSaharaNow. As reported by Forbes, the Ministry of Culture of the Polisario Front, the nationalist Sahrawi group seeking to end the occupation through self-determination and armed resistance, also issued a statement, saying in part: This act constitutes a dangerous form of cultural normalization with the occupation, and an unethical exploitation of art and cinema to whitewash the image of a colonial situation that is still imposed by force and met daily with the steadfast resistance of a people struggling for freedom and dignity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the other hand, Reda Benjelloun of the Moroccan Cinematographic Center told a local outlet Medias24 last week that the production filming in Dakhla is extremely important, marking the first major Hollywood production to do so. Dakhla will indeed offer extraordinary opportunities in the future to foreign productions which will find geography very different from other regions of Morocco, he said. The Odyssey, which adapts Homers ancient Greek epic poem for the big screen, has also filmed in Morocco, Greece and Italy. Its set for a theatrical release from Universal on July 17, 2026, with early tickets already selling out for screenings. Elsa Keslassy contributed to this report. Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Christopher Nolan is facing calls to halt production of his new Matt Damon-led epic, The Odyssey, in the Moroccan-occupied Western Sahara. The Oscar-winning British filmmaker and the films stars, Damon and Zendaya, were spotted July 17 arriving in the city of Dakhla, according to the Western Sahara International Film Festival (FiSahara). The Independent has learned that the film shot for four days in the region and left before FiSaharas press release asking for production to be halted in the Western Sahara was issued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dakhla is a part of the disputed territory of Western Sahara, and is deemed the capital of the claimed Moroccan administrative region Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab. While pro-regime media celebrated their arrival in Moroccos southern provinces, the FiSahara clarified in a statement that Western Sahara is classified as a non-self-governing territory by the United Nations, is under Moroccan occupation, and has yet to complete decolonization. Christopher Nolan's next epic, 'The Odyssey, is scheduled to release July 17, 2026 (Getty) Dakhla is not just a beautiful place with cinematic sand dunes. First and foremost, it is an occupied and militarized city whose Indigenous Sahrawi population is subjected to brutal repression by the Moroccan occupation forces, said the festival, which takes place in Sahrawi refugee camps in Algeria. By filming part of The Odyssey in an occupied territory classified as a journalistic desert by Reporters Without Borders, Nolan and his team, perhaps unknowingly and unwittingly, are contributing to Moroccos repression of the Sahrawi people and to the Moroccan regimes efforts to normalize its occupation of Western Sahara, added FiSaharas executive director, Maria Carrion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were sure that if they understood the full implications of filming a high-profile movie in a territory whose Indigenous peoples are unable to make their own films about their stories under occupation, Nolan and his team would be horrified. The Independent has contacted Nolan and Universal for comment. Matt Damon leads The Odyssey as Greek hero Odysseus (Universal) The festival claimed Morocco only allows entry into occupied Western Sahara to those who fit its strategy of selling its occupation to the outside world. High-profile visitors like Nolan and his team who help Morocco sell the narrative that Western Sahara is part of Morocco and that the Sahrawis are content to live under its rule are given the red carpet treatment, it said. But ask organizations like Amnesty International, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, or the hundreds of journalists and observers who have been barred or deported from the territory, and they will tell a different story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nolan has already filmed parts of The Odyssey in Morocco, Greece, and Italy. The movie, an adaptation of Homers Greek poem, stars Damon as Greek hero Odysseus, who embarks on a 10-year journey home following the end of the Trojan War. Zendaya, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Lupita Nyongo, Charlize Theron, and Robert Pattinson also star in the highly anticipated film. The Odyssey releases in theaters July 17, 2026. TEXARKANA, Texas (KTAL/KMSS) CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System provides a safe space for people living with limb loss with a monthly amputee support group. The group meets on the third Wednesday of each month at CHRISTUS St. Michael Rehabilitation Hospital. It is open to current patients, caregivers, and community members. Christina Rabideau, rehabilitation supervisor at CHRISTUS St Michael Health System, said, Losing a limb is life-changing, not just physically, but emotionally and socially. This group gives people a place to talk openly, ask questions, and realize theyre not alone in their journey. Each amputees journey is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Rehabilitation is tailored to each patients needs and goals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Post-amputation rehabilitation includes physical therapy, prosthetic fittings, psychological counseling, vocational retraining, and lifestyle adjustments. Donald Sheffield, a participant, said, Coming to this group helped me realize just how much I needed it. Its more than just a meeting, its a place where we lift each other up and find strength together. Participants include people newly adjusting to amputation, those who have lived without limbs for many years, and people at all stages of recovery in between. Meetings are guided by the groups needs and often feature guest speakers. For more information or to join the group, visit the CHRISTUS St. Michael Rehabilitation Hospital website or call (903) 614-4466. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. WYOMING (ABC4) The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints have reopened trail routes to Trek groups near Lander, Wyoming. Church officials with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints have reopened trail routes in Wyoming. The trail routes can now be used by trek groups, who typically hike on the same paths that pioneers travelled in the mid-1800s on their way to Utah and recreate life as it was back then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Courtesy: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints According to church officials, the reopened trail routes begin at the Sixth Crossing Visitors Center and ends at Rock Creek Hollow. Ten pioneer companies traversed this area between the 1840s and 1860s and two, the Willie and Martin handcart companies, required rescue wagons after experiencing extreme weather conditions. One church official, Sister Jennifer McKay said, You can see the feelings and the experiences of those who have gone before us settling into the hearts of everyone here. Youth members from a church stake in Hooper, Utah traveled on the newly reopened route in the beginning of July. That group spent three days on the trail, pushing handcarts and participating in Pioneer-era activities and dancing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One youth member, Emry Miller, had researched one of her ancestors, who had trekked. She said, Okay, she did harder things and went through so many more trials and sacrifices. And Im here on a smoother road, and its hard, but I can do this. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. CINCINNATI - A candidate for Cincinnati's mayorship slammed city leadership Monday afternoon after a viral downtown beatdown that has reverberated across the nation. "People don't even see the sense in calling 911 anymore," said Cory Bowman, who is also Vice President JD Vance's half-brother in addition to being a candidate for city mayor. Bowman placed second in a nonpartisan primary race in May. He will square off with incumbent Mayor Aftab Pureval in November. His thoughts on citizens seeing no sense in calling 911 came after Police Chief Teresa Theetge said in a press conference that only one person called police while the attack was ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That is unacceptable to not call the police," she said during a Monday press conference. "Traffic was horrendous. People saw this. They were fighting in front of traffic. Why didn't people call us?" Bowman said that with police handcuffed by the current city leadership, he is not surprised by the events of early Saturday morning, which took place on the corner of Fourth and Elm Street outside a nightclub in the city's downtown business district. Police Identify Multiple Suspects In Brutal Cincinnati Street Fight: 'Cruel And Absolutely Unacceptable' Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's two aspects of it," Bowman told Fox News Digital. "One, it's a wake-up call. It's a wake-up call that we've got to have better policy. We've got to be able to take immediate action to make sure that the residents and the businesses in our communities are safe. The nation is basically seeing what us in the city have already known to be true." Despite the fact that the viral assault could stain his city's reputation, Bowman said it's important for the nation to see what's really happening in cities, and that what happened in Cincinnati is a microcosm of what is happening in urban areas nationwide. "Now, I think this is important for the nation to see it, because the nation is seeing that multiple downtown areas in America are seeing failed policies ruin their cities," he said. "And you're seeing riots, you're seen fights, you're seeing crime rise, you're seeing laws that aren't enforced." He told Fox News Digital that crime in the city not only spikes during the summer months, but has increased over time as a whole, which he claims the local government and media deny. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brutal Downtown Brawl Leaves Victims Bloodied As Cincinnati Police Launch Investigation "Whenever May and June was rolling around, there was all these press conferences and all these statements from the media that was stating that crime is down, crime is down," he said. "Well, the reality of it is that anybody that lived downtown knew that because of snow and because of rain, that maybe some things were being prolonged, but once the warmer months came about, the policies not enforcing the law is actually going to allow just a free-for-all in the city," he continued. Bowman said police officers are voicing their concerns to him about not being able to do their jobs, and he noted that the Cincinnati Police Department (CPD) is understaffed to begin with. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And then what happens is that these police officers don't see a point in actually booking the criminals, because there's actually prosecutors in the city that have a revolving door mentality that the criminals go in, and then they're released on the streets," he said. "And so many of these officers don't even book people because they know they're just gonna be back on the street next week. So they sit in their cars, and they try to do the best they can. They have a heart for the city, but they're being hindered by the policies that are in place." Ken Kober is a 25-year veteran of the Cincinnati Police Department. He echoed Bowman's sentiments about the police department's hands being tied, and told Fox News Digital that the beating is something that "as a society, we cannot accept." Blue City Mayor Nearly Kidnapped After Claiming City Is Getting Safer: Police Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's just nothing more than a savage attack on a couple of people. I mean you see somebody that's completely defenseless, trying to cover their head in their face, and they're just being stomped on by multiple individuals," Kober said. Kober was upset that the positives of the weekend, the Cincinnati Reds winning three home games and the storied Cincinnati Jazz Festival, were overshadowed by the vicious viral video. He, too, blamed local officials for increasing crime. "We have a problem with judges that don't wanna hold people accountable, and when they know that there aren't gonna to be any consequences for their actions is when people are gonna go out and we're gonna see incidents like what happened Saturday morning," he said. The corner of Fourth and Elm Street outside of LoVe, a local nightclub, where the beating took place, as seen on July 28, 2025, in Cincinnati. "I hope that the court system actually holds these people to the fullest extent of the law. It would be nice to see headlines six or eight months from now saying that these people were convicted, and they're now gonna get the maximum sentence for whatever crime they've been convicted of." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday afternoon, CPD said it charged five people in connection with the incident. The names of the individuals were not released. Cincinnati Chief of Police Teresa Theetge added that there were over 100 witnesses to the attack, and some even filmed it. However, only one call was placed to 911. Police sources told Fox News earlier in the day that they are working to identify at least eight more suspects. People with information are asked to call the Cincinnati Police Department or Crime Stoppers at 513-352-3040. Original article source: Cincinnati mayoral candidate, VP Vance's half-brother, slams city leadership after brutal beatdown Over 170 million people are under heat alerts in the U.S. this week, with temperatures reaching record highs across the country. Tampa, Fla. recently hit a record high of 100 degrees on Sunday, and many cities across the country, from New York City, to Kansas City, to Las Vegas are expected to see temperatures in the high 90s or even 100 degrees. Extreme heat waves are no longer anomaliesits becoming the norm. Human-caused climate change has at least doubled the number of extreme heat days in 195 countries and territories when compared to a world without climate change, according to a Climate Central study. What we've experienced in the past, is that no matter where you are, you are going to experience heat waves, says Melissa Guardaro, adjunct faculty at the Arizona State University School of Sustainability. So I think that it's best to prepare for not only the emergencies like heat waves and heat domes, but also long-term increase in urban heat. How are the hottest states adapting to extreme heat? Extreme heat kills more people in the U.S. than any other weather-related natural disasterbut its still not recognized as a disaster under the Stafford Act, the federal law that establishes how the government responds to natural disasters. In many places, you don't have one person or one department that is specifically tasked with coordinating the heat efforts throughout the municipality, says Guardaro. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many cities have taken up the mantle of addressing the issue on their own. In 2021, Miami, Fla. became the first city in the world to appoint a chief heat officer. Soon after, Phoenix, Ariz.which typically sees summer temperatures climb into the triple digitsappointed David Hondula as heat mitigation officer. The rest of Arizona soon followed suit: in 2024, the state became the first in the U.S. to appoint a chief heat officer. The gold standard is the city of Phoenix, says Guardaro, who notes that the city now has an entire office dedicated to heat mitigation. Other cities are implementing a range of solutions. Jacksonville, Fla. has taken up initiatives to connect people with resources such as cooling centers during a heat wave, says Guardaro. Bridgeport, Conn. is creating cool corridors, planting trees and using reflective paint to create shaded, cool pedestrian walkways. And New York City is taking steps to protect those most vulnerable to extreme heatdistributing cool kits to outdoor workers that includes sunscreen, electrolytes, an ice pack, and a cooling towel as part of a pilot program last summer. Is anywhere immune to extreme heat? Even states that might previously have been fair-weathered are no longer immune to extreme heatSan Francisco, usually blanketed by a cool fog, is expected to see anywhere from 7 to 25 extreme heat days a season by mid-century if high emissions continue. In many cases, extreme heat is already here: in 2021, hundreds of people died when temperatures hit over 100 degrees in the mild-tempered Pacific Northwest. A number of cities, including Caribou, Maine and Grand Junction, Colorado had their warmest summers on record in 2024. How cities around the world are responding to heat waves Around the world, Athens, Dhaka, and Santiago are some of the cities that appointed their own heat officers in recent years. The job is at the intersection of emergency response, public health, and urban planning, says Gregory Wellenius, director of the Center for Climate and Health at Boston University. Those offices are important to bring people together from different units to have a more targeted approach, rather than every department doing what they think is best. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cities are also taking other measures to address extreme heat. In India, where the number of people exposed to extreme heat continues to rise, the city of Ahmedabad developed an early warning system capable of issuing warnings seven days before a heat wave. The system, combined with policy changes, has caused heat related deaths in the city to fall by around 20%. In 2022, Seville, Spain made the decision to begin naming heat waves, as part of a heat wave categorization system designed to better monitor and deploy resources during extreme heat waves. Read More: Zoe, the Worlds First Named Heat Wave, Arrives in Seville Its important that cities develop long-term solutions to help mitigate heat, says Wellenius. You can't be in emergency mode the whole time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Germanys larger cities are adopting a sponge city approach to flooding and heat, utilizing heat-resistant road surfaces and light colored buildings to reflect heat. In Antwerp, developers must now follow building codes that take heat resilience into accountcertain buildings are required to install green rooftops, or paint exteriors in light, heat reflecting colors. Cities can start small and build up their heat plans along the way, says Guardaro. When you start to string [the small things] together in a strategic manner, it actually ends up being something that's really great in the long term. Write to Simmone Shah at simmone.shah@time.com. A cryptocurrency ATM is shown in a convenience store in 2022 in Miami. Several states have passed new laws regulating these machines, which officials say are increasingly being used to scam consumers. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) They may resemble other ATMs, but officials are increasingly warning about the potential for fraud with the expanding fleet of cryptocurrency ATMs popping up across the country. The National Consumers League says the largely unregulated machines have become favored by scammers for their anonymity and irreversibility once a user transfers or deposits funds, that money is essentially gone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While officials say the machines can be used for legitimate purposes, red and blue states are increasingly imposing new regulations to protect consumers: AARP says 11 states have recently passed new laws or regulations of the machines. In state after state, AARP found lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and local law enforcement eager to work on commonsense rules that balance innovation and consumer safety, Nancy LeaMond, AARPs executive vice president and chief advocacy and engagement officer, said in a news release. Last year, the FBI reported nearly 11,000 complaints of cryptocurrency ATM fraud. Those cases disproportionately affected older Americans and cost victims $246.7 million. Cryptocurrencies are digital assets, including bitcoin, that offer an alternative payment or method without control of a central bank or government like other currencies. Crypto ATMs, sometimes called crypto kiosks, allow users to insert cash or use debit cards to convert currencies such as U.S. dollars into cryptocurrencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Federal Trade Commission says crypto ATM scams often start with a call or text message warning of a supposed problem, such as unauthorized bank charges or suspicious activity on an Amazon account. The FTC says consumers should contact banks or other institutions directly about any account issues. And it warns consumers not to believe anyone who says they must use a crypto ATM to address a financial problem. Real businesses and government agencies will never do that anyone who does is a scammer, the agency said. After signing a bill with new regulations, Nebraska Republican Gov. Jim Pillen was clear that the state would continue to welcome cryptocurrency businesses as it aims to become a hub for the industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Nebraska law requires ATM operators to acquire state licensure, warn customers of the potential for criminal exploitation and take reasonable steps to detect and prevent fraud. The law also limits transactions to $2,000 per day for new customers and $10,500 for existing customers, and requires operators to issue refunds for properly reported fraudulent transactions. At least 40 states have introduced legislation regarding cryptocurrency, digital or virtual currencies and other digital assets in the 2025 legislative session, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Those measures include ATM regulations, prohibiting the use of digital currencies by governments and allowing state investment in digital assets. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Federal lawmakers are also taking action on the issue. The Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives declared the week of July 14 Crypto Week, when lawmakers considered several pieces of legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the end of that week, President Donald Trump signed into law the GENIUS Act, the first major law governing digital currency. It establishes a regulatory framework for the industry. Trump hopes the bill will instill confidence in the industry that spent heavily to strengthen its legitimacy and political might, The Associated Press reported. This signing is a massive validation of your hard work and your pioneering spirit, the president told crypto executives. In state legislatures, new bills regulating crypto ATMS have enjoyed bipartisan support. AARP tracking shows new bills have been approved in Arkansas, Iowa and Oklahoma, as well as in more liberal states such as Maryland and Vermont. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May, Arizona Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs signed Republican-sponsored legislation that sets daily transaction limits and mandates crypto ATM operators provide customers certain disclosures and warnings. The legislation followed local news coverage of at least two dozen crypto scams, including one that cost an Arizonan $28,000. Stateline reporter Kevin Hardy can be reached at khardy@stateline.org. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The government has said publicly it wanted a post-launch investigation after the Starship explosion in March. A spokesperson for Cooper did not respond to questions about how the rocket landing deal was arranged. Reuters found no evidence that Cooper broke any laws or regulations in striking the deal with SpaceX, but the two sources said the quick approval created tension within the Bahamian government, with some officials expressing misgivings about a lack of transparency in the negotiations. The prime minister's office said in its statement that the approval for SpaceXs landing agreement came from the cabinet and no single individual or ministry acted independently of this process. The Bahamas rocket landing deal, unlocking a more efficient path to space for SpaceX's reusable Falcon 9, was signed in February last year by Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, who bypassed consultation with several other key government ministers, one of the sources and another person familiar with the talks said. In interviews with Reuters, the sources described in detail the Starlink sweetener. However, they did not provide written evidence. The prime minister's office also didn't provide specific evidence that it had paid for Starlink. "No donation was sought, proposed, or accepted from SpaceX in this regard," the statement said. In a statement provided to Reuters post-publication, the Bahamian Prime Minister's office said that while the defense force uses Starlink for communications, the government covers the full cost. SpaceX's setback in the Bahamas detailed in this story for the first time offers a rare glimpse into its sensitive diplomacy with foreign governments. As the company races to expand its dominant space business, it must navigate the geopolitical complexities of a global operation involving advanced satellites and rockets flying over or near sovereign territories. But by this April, the landing agreement was put on hold after the explosion a month earlier of a different SpaceX rocket, Starship, whose mid-flight failure sent hundreds of pieces of debris washing ashore on Bahamian islands. NASSAU, Bahamas (Reuters) -When SpaceX was negotiating a deal with the Bahamas last year to allow its Falcon 9 rocket boosters to land within the island nation's territory, Elon Musk 's company offered a sweetener: complimentary Starlink internet terminals for the country's defense vessels, according to three people familiar with the matter. Story Continues "While no toxic materials were detected and no significant environmental impact was reported, the incident prompted a reevaluation of our engagement with SpaceX," Chequita Johnson, the acting director general of the Civil Aviation Authority Bahamas, said in a statement. MISSION TO MARS SpaceX is pursuing aggressive global expansion as Musk, its CEO, has become a polarizing figure on the world stage, especially following high-profile clashes with several governments during his time advising President Donald Trump. More recently he has fallen out with Trump himself. Starlink, SpaceX's fast-growing satellite internet venture, is a central source of revenue funding Musk's vision to send human missions to Mars aboard Starship. But to scale globally, SpaceX must continue to win the trust of foreign governments with which it wishes to operate the service, as rivals from China and companies like Jeff Bezos' Amazon ramp up competing satellite networks. The political risks facing SpaceX were laid bare last month when Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said her government was considering taking legal action against SpaceX over "contamination" related to Starship launches from Starbase, the company's rocket site in Texas, 2 miles north of the Mexican border. Her comments came after a Starship rocket exploded into a giant fireball earlier this month on a test stand at Starbase. Responding to Sheinbaum on X, SpaceX said its teams have been hindered from recovering Starship debris that landed in Mexican territory. Meanwhile, Starship's trajectory from Texas to orbit requires it to pass over Caribbean airspaces, exposing the region to potential debris if the rocket fails, as it has in all three of its test flights this year. The Falcon 9 rocket can carry heavier payloads and more satellites to space if its booster is allowed to land in Bahamian territory, SpaceX says. SpaceX's deal with the Bahamas, the government said, also included a $1 million donation to the University of Bahamas, where the company pledged to conduct quarterly seminars on space and engineering topics. The company must pay a $100,000 fee per landing, pursuant to the country's space regulations it enacted in preparation for the SpaceX activities. The Falcon 9 booster landings could resume later this summer, two Bahamian officials said. Holding things up is the government's examination of a SpaceX report on the booster landing's environmental impact, as well as talks among officials to amend the country's space reentry regulations to codify a better approval process and environmental review requirements, one of the sources said. Arana Pyfrom, assistant director at the Bahamas' Department of Environmental Planning and Protection, said SpaceX's presence in the country is "polarizing". Many Bahamians, he said, have voiced concerns to the government about their safety from Starship debris and pollution to the country's waters. "I have no strong dislike for the exploration of space, but I do have concerns about the sovereignty of my nation's airspace," Pyfrom said. "The Starship explosion just strengthened opposition to make sure we could answer all these questions." STARSHIP FAILURES ROCK ISLANDS Starship exploded about nine and a half minutes into flight on March 6 after launching from Texas, in what the company said was likely the result of an automatic self-destruct command triggered by an issue in its engine section. It was the second consecutive test failure after a similar mid-flight explosion in January rained debris on the Turks and Caicos Islands, a nearby British overseas territory. Matthew Bastian, a retired engineer from Canada, was anchored in his sailboat on vacation near Ragged Island, a remote island chain in southern Bahamas, just after sunset when he witnessed Starships explosion. What he initially thought was a rising moon quickly became an expanding fireball that turned into a "large array of streaking comets." "My initial reaction was 'wow that is so cool,' then reality hit me I could have a huge chunk of rocket debris crash down on me and sink my boat!" he said. "Fortunately that didn't happen, but one day it could happen to someone." Thousands of cruise ships, ferries, workboats, fishing boats, yachts and recreational sailboats ply the waters around Caribbean islands each year, maritime traffic that is crucial for the Bahamas tourism industry. Within days of the explosion, SpaceX dispatched staff and deployed helicopters and speedboats to swarm Ragged Island and nearby islands, using sonar to scan the seafloor for debris, four local residents and a government official told Reuters. On the surface, recovery crews hauled the wreckage from the water and transferred it onto a much larger SpaceX vessel, typically used to catch rocket fairings falling back from space, the people said. The SpaceX team included its vice president of launch, Kiko Dontchev, who emphasized in a news conference with local reporters that the rocket is entirely different from the Falcon 9 boosters that would land off the Exuma coast under SpaceX's agreement. Joe Darville, chairman of a local environmental organization called Save The Bays, was angered by the Starship debris, as well as what he described as a "deal done totally in secret" over the Falcon 9 agreement. As Bahamian waters become increasingly polluted and coral reefs shrink, he's unhappy with the lack of transparency in his government's dealings with SpaceX. "Something like that should have never been made without consultation of the people in the Bahamas," he said. Pyfrom, the official from the Bahamas' environmental agency, said the review of the SpaceX report and the approval process will show "where we fell short, and what we need to improve on." SpaceX, meanwhile, is forging ahead with Starship. Musk said earlier this month he expects the next Starship rocket to lift off within the next three weeks. (Reporting by Joey Roulette; editing by Joe Brock and Claudia Parsons) Cincinnati City Council member Jeff Cramerding wants $2 million in city dollars to fight crime Downtown. The second-term council member next week will present a motion to use city dollars to recruit more officers for the Cincinnati Police Department, pay them overtime, increase bike and walking patrols, install more lighting and security cameras, and take other measures "to improve public safety and deter violent crime in the Central Business District and other crime hot spots," a draft of his motion reads. Cramerding seeks the funding following a violent fight downtown overnight on July 26, video of which went viral and attracted national attention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As made clear by the video over the weekend, there is a small but very dangerous group of violent people in Cincinnati," Cramerding told The Enquirer on July 28. Cincinnati City Council member Jeff Cramerding seeks more funding for Cincinnati police officers to fight crime downtown. 'Get more officers on the street more quickly' Participants in the fight which drew about 100 people to the corner of Fourth and Elm streets need to be prosecuted and jailed, Cramerding said. "The circumstances behind the fight are irrelevant," he said, adding that bystanders filmed the fight on their phones instead of reporting it. "That is not behavior we can tolerate in Cincinnati." His motion suggests expanding the police department's "lateral" recruit class, populated by officers currently employed by other jurisdictions. Residents, business owners and others have told him they want police to be more visible downtown, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is a way to get more officers on the street more quickly," he said. Cramerding, like all nine members of council, is up for reelection this November. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: What does Jeff Cramerding want for police? YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Youngstown City Council is being asked to approve a loan of up to $43 million from the Environmental Protection Agency to pay for the Mill Creek Park Interceptor Sewer Project. Council met Monday evening in a special meeting to vote on the ordinance but it failed, as council members Samantha Turner and Amber White did not attend, and the ordinance needs six votes to pass as an emergency. It was sent to a second reading. Youngstown Mayor Tito Brown told the council he endorses asking the EPA for the funds. The $43 million would pay for the first two of four parts of the federally mandated project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the end of the day, the citizens are going to benefit from it, Brown said. And our grand kids and great grand kids are going to say that this body thats sitting at this table in these leadership roles have taken this forward and made sure we stopped it right here. For over 100 years, stormwater runoff has been mixing with sewage in the underground pipes around Mill Creek Park, and during heavy rains, the mix ends up in Mill Creek. In July 2015, persistent heavy rain pushed so much raw sewage into Mill Creek that fish were killed, and the parks three lakes were closed. Youngstown Finance Director Kyle Miasek said sewer rate increases have helped pay for $30 million of the $70 million project, but additional increases will be needed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We still have other components of the mandate that we have to also fulfill, Miasek said. But we only did those rate increases through five years. There are going to be some additional increases in the future. City Councilman Jimmy Hughes, who represents the East Side, said his constituents dont want to pay a rate increase to pay for Lake Newport and Lake Glacier and that its never going to happen. Councilman Julius Oliver also raised a question at the meeting. If this wasnt a federal mandate, would we still be doing this in a different type of capacity? Oliver said. Director of Public Works Chuck Shasho called the Mill Creek park Interceptor Sewer Project the environmentally responsible thing to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is going to clean Lake Newport, Lake Cohasset, and Lake Glacier up, and eventually the whole Mahoning River, Shasho said. The Marucci and Gaffney Excavating Company will do the construction, which is expected to start early next year and take three years to complete. City Council is also considering an amendment to its codified ordinances to make smoke and carbon monoxide detectors mandatory in all rental units in Youngstown. It, too, will have to wait until the next meeting. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. DURANGO, Colo. (KRQE) The City of Durango is looking for some shutterbugs to put their camera skills to work. The city has launched a photography contest to pick which photo will be featured on their upcoming budget book. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The winner receives a transit center parking pass good for one year and other city-themed prizes. The deadline to submit is Friday, Aug. 1. You can submit online. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Over 100 people, concerned and upset with the state of crime in Downtown, packed into a community meeting Tuesday night to hear from city leaders following a recent viral fight featured on social media and an uptick in crime. While Police Chief Teresa Theetge and City Manager Sheryl Long detailed many of the initiatives the city has taken on to try and combat crime such as ACT for Cincy and the street crime task force little new information was shared about the fight that has captured national attention and spawned criticism far and wide. A man and a woman have been arrested in connection with the weekend brawl, and Theetge said three more people are wanted by police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: 5 suspects charged, 1 911 call from crowd. What we know about the viral Cincinnati fight The chief, who has lashed out at bystanders of the fight, bars for overserving and the media, criticized the city's portrayal on national news and how the fight has been used as political ammo. "I will not tolerate lawlessness on the streets of Cincinnati," Theetge said during the July 29 meeting at the Cincinnati Public Library. "I owe it to you as people who live and work here to get the lawlessness under control." Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge speaks during a meeting on public safety July 29 at the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Main Branch Public Library. The meeting was scheduled by the Downtown Residents Council before the recent viral fight in response to "months of growing concern from our residents and stakeholders regarding public safety in the Central Business District," Andrew Naab, the council's president, previously said in an emailed statement to The Enquirer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alongside city leaders was Steve Leeper, the president and CEO of the Cincinnati Center City Development Corp., better known as 3CDC. Leeper rebuked the state of crime Downtown but continued to indicate his support for the city's current leadership. 3CDC President and CEO Steve Leeper during a meeting on public safety, July 29, at the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Main Branch Public Librar "We've been here 20 years. And we all recall when there was major disinvestment north of Central Parkway in Over-the-Rhine," Leeper said. "The condition then was unacceptable. The activity and crime that were going on there is reflective of what we're seeing today. It was unacceptable then and is unacceptable now." 3CDC's revitalization work has led the way through much of Downtown and Over-the-Rhine. Leeper said it's important residents continue to invest their time and money Downtown for that to continue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cincinnati's Downtown restaurateurs, including the CEO of Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment, have called for a "real plan" to address the recent public safety concerns. Residents question police response to crime Residents expressed concerns about issues such as motorcycles and other cars speeding down one-way streets in Downtown during the middle of the night. Theetge said officers have to consider the risk of pursuing a suspect, like a motorcyclist, that will likely speed away from police if confronted, endangering pedestrians or other motorists. Community members gather for a meeting on public safety, Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Main Branch Public Library. One resident questioned the department's response to the fight during the early hours of Saturday morning, asking Theetge how many 911 calls for noise complaints or other disorder police received prior to the fight breaking out. A woman chimed in that there was at least one, indicating she had called that night. "Downtown was hopping. It was loud. It was crowded. It was noisy," Theetge said, admitting she did not have the exact number of calls for noise complaints or disorder that night. The chief said there was only one other medical run for the fire department that evening she knew of. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The room was filled, with several people being turned away due to the capacity limit being reached. Two people were ejected after yelling out during the meeting. City leaders explain the work they're doing, but add nothing new The ideas touched on by city leaders are the same as what were introduced in June when they announced efforts to combat the "unacceptable rise in crime" across Cincinnati. Some of the initiatives city officials mentioned they are still mulling to combat crime include: Resuming enforcement of the current, or a modified version of, the city's curfew for youth under the age of 18 Cracking down on nuisance businesses like bars with repeated complaints or violations Finding a way to "hold parents accountable," Theetge said, for their child's actions when they engage in crime Downtown Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Much of the conversation centered around discussing what kind of efforts Cincinnati police have already been taking, including launching a street crime task force in early July, and providing some residents the opportunity to ask questions to Theetge, Long and Leeper. Cincinnati City Manager Sheryl Long speaks during a meeting on public safety July 29, at the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Main Branch Public Library. Long spoke on the city's programming for youth, which has been a major element of the city's plan to combat juvenile crime during the summertime. Long emphasized her focus is on long-term solutions, not just "check the box exercises," but admitted that the programming only goes so far in reducing nighttime crime. "We can provide programming all day long. But when we get to 12, one, two, three a.m. in the morning, these kids need to be home," Long said. "How many remember the saying 'nothing good happens after 11 o'clock?'" Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval speaks during a meeting on public safety, July 29 at the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Main Branch Public Library. The mayor joined in on the meeting virtually. Mayor Aftab Pureval, who joined virtually while he is out of town, acknowledged residents' concerns and briefly commented on the importance of residents' perception of crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's not lost on anyone here that for everything else that we care about as a community, none of it works unless crime is under control and residents feel safe," Pureval said. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati leaders speak on Downtown crime concerns after viral fight Following a court-granted injunction, the city of Seattle has released its plan to address public nudity and other sexual acts at Denny Blaine Park. This comes after a court granted an injunction that was brought forth by the group Denny Blaine Park For All, a neighbor association. The group was calling for the closure of Denny Blaine Park following nearly daily instances of public masturbation, sex acts and drug use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A judge granted the injunction, but instead of granting the groups wish to close the park immediately, the judge granted the city 14 days to come up with an abatement plan. In a statement about the abatement plan, the city of Seattle said": In response to the Courts ruling on preliminary injunction, the City has submitted an initial plan to abate nuisance activities and improve conditions at Denny Blaine Park. The plan divides the park into two areas: clothing optional and clothing required. Under the plan, the City will establish visual barriers for the clothing optional areas; install new signage that clearly states Park rules and state and local laws; and significantly increase Park Ranger and staff presence to educate users on Park Code, promote voluntary compliance of rules, and provide enforcement if needed. The City has consistently said that we will not tolerate lewd and illegal activities at the park including masturbation, leering, or public sex. We believe the proposed plan balances the historical nude use of the park, including by the LGBTQIA+ community, while also addressing unwanted and illegal behaviors that impact both park users and the surrounding community." The abatement plan, released on July 28, includes the following measures the city plans to take: Limiting the portion of the Park that is clothing optional to the area of the Park least visible from residences. Establishing visual barriers to separate the clothing optional area of the Park. Installing clearly marked signage throughout the Park and at its entrances stating Park rules. Implementing a substantial increase in staffing of Park Rangers and/or Seattle Parks and Recreation staff at the Park. Using a progressive discretionary enforcement approach, which may include educating, warning, and citing individuals who do not comply with Park rules and, where necessary, requesting assistance from law enforcement to address criminal activity such as sexual criminal lewd conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the document, the city said it: respectfully objects to any order that would (1) requre the city to obtain approval from the court for any abatement plan, (2) direct the city to exercise its discretion in a particular way, and/or (3) impose upon the City any obligation to abate criminal conduct that exceeds mere nudity at the Park. In a statement to KIRO 7, the group Denny Blaine for All said: Here you go from the Denny Blaine Park for All group. Our official statement regarding the abatement document released by the city of Seattle today: The Citys plan fails to address the ongoing illegal activity at Denny Blaine Park and even recommends limiting the portion of the park that is clothing optional to the area least visible from residences. We fail to see how that could even be possible, let alone how it could be enforced. Their additional suggestions for more signage and part-time park rangers has failed before and will fail again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the injunction, public safety has worsenedunderscored by a large overnight party that drew a major police response after one parkgoer brandished a gun and another slashed tires during a heated argument. Public sex acts, masturbation, indecent exposure, and lewd conduct also continue. The plan ignores the parks free-for-all reality and growing risk of serious harm to park goers and the community. The city said it will address these issues during the Aug. 6 hearing. City of St. Paul hit by cyberattack; Gov. Walz activates Minnesota National Guard originally appeared on Bring Me The News. Gov. Tim Walz activated the Minnesota National Guard on Tuesday in response to a cyberattack impacting the City of St. Paul. In a statement around 11:45 a.m., the governor's office said city officials requested the deployment of the National Guard's cyber protection assets because of the "magnitude and complexity of the cybersecurity incident." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are committed to working alongside the City of Saint Paul to restore cybersecurity as quickly as possible, Walz stated. The Minnesota National Guards cyber forces will collaborate with city, state, and federal officials to resolve the situation and mitigate lasting impacts. Above all, we are committed to protecting the safety and security of the people of Saint Paul. The city's defensive shutdown as it responds to the breach has caused internet outages in city buildings, disruption to the library system and suspension of network access to a wide range of internal applications, according to city officials. The Executive Order activated the National Guard can be found here. Mayor Carter discusses 'deliberate, coordinated' attack Speaking at a press conference Tuesday, St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter said "suspicious activity" was detected on the city's network on Friday, July 25. Carter said the city responded immediately to the alert and launched an investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We now know this was not a system glitch or technical error," Carter said. "This was a deliberate, coordinated digital attack carried out by a sophisticated external actor - intentionally and criminally targeting our city's information infrastructure." Courtesy of City of Saint Paul. State of Emergency declared in St. Paul The city's Emergency Operations Center has been activated and city leaders have retained two national firms to support the recovery, Carter said. The city is also working with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to trace the source and scope of the breach. Carter has declared a local State of Emergency and said the city on Monday initiated a "full shutdown" of the city's information systems as a "defensive measure." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter said these measures are intended to isolate the threat and protect sensitive information as recovery efforts continue. City leaders have not commented on which information, if any, was stolen as the investigation continues. This is a developing story. Please check back for updates. Related: Over 60,000 still without power after storm slams Twin Cities with 70 mph winds This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 29, 2025, where it first appeared. Legal groups sued the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Tuesday, claiming it is unlawfully refusing to enforce federal workplace protections for transgender workers. Led by Acting Chair Andrea Lucas, a Republican, the federal agency charged with enforcing laws against workplace discrimination has moved swiftly to comply with President Donald Trump's executive order declaring two unchangeable sexes. Under Lucass leadership, the EEOC has dropped several lawsuits on behalf of transgender workers, stalled progress on some new cases, and subjected others to heightened scrutiny. The lawsuit also alleges that the agency halted payments to state and local civil rights agencies for investigating gender identity discrimination claims. For over 60 years, the EEOCs mandate has been to protect workers from discrimination, not to pick and choose who is deemed worthy of protection based on political interference, said Skye Perryman, the president and CEO of Democracy Forward, which alongside the National Womens Law Center brought the case on behalf of Maryland LGBTQ+ advocacy group FreeState Justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump-Vance administrations unlawful effort to erase protections for transgender people is cruel, and a violation of the law and the Constitution, Perryman continued in an emailed statement. The EEOC declined to comment on the lawsuit, and instead referred The Associated Press to the Department of Justice. The DOJ did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Lucas, who is named in the lawsuit filed in Maryland U.S. District Court in Baltimore, has said that one of her priorities as Acting Chair would be defending the biological and binary reality of sex and related rights. Last month she defended her decision to drop several lawsuits on behalf of transgender workers during her June 18 Senate committee confirmation hearing, saying her agency is not independent and must comply with the president's orders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was impossible to both comply with the presidents executive order as an executive branch agency, and also zealously defend the workers we had brought the case on behalf, she said. However, Lucas acknowledged that a 2020 Supreme Court ruling Bostock v. Clayton County did clearly hold that discriminating against someone on the basis of sex included firing an individual who is transgender or based on their sexual orientation. Plaintiffs argue that although the Bostock precedent cemented protections for LGBTQ+ workers that the EEOC had already recognized for years the agency has now foreclosed transgender workers from the full set of charge investigation and other enforcement protections available to cisgender charging parties and categorically refuses to fully enforce the laws protecting against workplace sex discrimination tied to gender identity. The lawsuit, which cites two Associated Press reports detailing EEOC actions related to LGBTQ+ workers, alleges that the EEOCs Trans Exclusion Policy violates Supreme Court precedent, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Fifth Amendments Equal Protection guarantee, and the Administrative Procedure Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead of serving its critical role to prevent discrimination in the workplace, the EEOC, under Andrea Lucas leadership, is actually promoting discrimination, said Gaylynn Burroughs, Vice President for Education and Workplace Justice at NWLC, in an emailed statement about the lawsuit. Transgender workers deserve to be protected against harassment, and the EEOC is obligated to do so under law. But the Trump administration seems hellbent on bullying transgender people in every possible way and ensuring that they are pushed out of all forms of public life, including their workplaces, so were taking the administration to court. ________ The Associated Press women in the workforce and state government coverage receives financial support from Pivotal Ventures. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) In hopes of helping both students and teachers start the school year strong, the Clarksburg Police Department is calling for donations of school supplies. Announced in a recent Facebook post, donations of school supplies can now be dropped off at the Clarksburg Police Department, located at 222 West Main Street in Clarksburg, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. A donation collection table can also be found at the Walmart on Emily Drive. A few of the specific items the department is looking for include backpacks, lunch boxes, pencils, pens, notebooks, folders, tissues, and Clorox wipes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robert C. Byrd High School to start year with staggered schedule This is the first back-to-school drive the police department has hosted, though it hopes to make this an annual event. 12 News spoke with the Clarksburg Police Departments records clerk, Lindsey Cooper, on why the department decided to host the donation drive. I think its important for the community to help just those we have in our community that may not have the money to buy this stuff right now, Cooper said. We want every kid to go into the start of the year feeling confident and prepared. We want our teachers to feel good about the start of the school year, you know, because they pay for stuff out of their pockets and, you know, people struggle, especially with the world today. We want people to just feel the community is there to help if they need it. The department plans to start distributing donations at local elementary schools first, then hopefully, with enough donations, work its way up to Robert C. Byrd High School. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donations will be collected from now until August 15 before Harrison County schools start back on August 18. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) As students and parents count down the days to the first day of school, East Baton Rouge Parish Superintendent Lamont Cole says a lot is underway. I think the biggest change for some families will be, obviously, theyll be in a new school building with better facilities, better resources, different teachers. Some students will be in the classroom with two educators, he said. As part of the new changes, start times and bus routes have been adjusted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We changed the way we have done routing in terms of transportation. We should see increased pick-up and drop-off times. Better pick-up and drop-off times for our families. We do have new drop-off locations in some of the areas of town that is going to improve our transportation efficiency, said Cole. If parents decide the bus route isnt the best option, they can now choose to opt out. This allows routes to be more on track and provides another opportunity for more transportation access. New security features are now in place on buses, including brand-new cameras, and new entryways at the schools for visitors. Cole said safety will always be a top priority. All of our school leaders have gone through some safety development training in terms of making sure theyre monitoring their campuses. Weve deployed the new weapons detection systems. We learned a lot from students in terms of what we need to do as a school system and what school leadership teams need to do at their schools to ensure kids feel safe, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Cole reached his first 100 days as Superintendent, he emphasized the need to introduce his realignment plan, which outlines his goals for reshaping the district. Were about 92% complete with all of the moves because we had some big moves in terms of BRCVPA going into its new school, moving from Kenilworth into its new school and McKinley High School going from the current location to Kenilworth. So those are the last two moves that were working on to ensure were ready for the first day, he said. He said schools can provide students with more educational preparation to get them ready for the real world, such as different testing strategies. What were doing in our new brand-new foundation and learning centers and we still want to make sure were preparing our kids to read. And then once we do that, we are putting them on a path to being successful. Still want to continue with our dual enrollment initiative that is allowing our students to be able to graduate with a high school diploma as well as an associates degree from BRCC, said Cole. Cole added he describes the new school year as exciting. With new partnerships to help students access more lunch opportunities and new testing measures to ensure student success, he said, boots will continue to be on the ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive had an entire year to assess, to evaluate, to meet with school leaders, to meet teachers, to meet with students, to meet with families, to meet with stakeholders in our community to understand what the expectations are. So, we have some really high expectations, he said. School starts Aug. 7 for East Baton Rouge Parish. For updated school start times, the bus opt out program and more click here. 3 Baton Rouge area educators named teacher, principal, new teacher of the year by LDOE Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. The following story was written by Terry Schrimscher of the Trussville Tribune. CLAY, Ala. (TRIBUNE) City of Clay council member Bo Johnson stepped down from his seat on the city council during the July 22 meeting at City Hall. Johnson, who has held the position since 2014, stepped down due to the fact he recently moved out of the city limits and is no longer eligible for the position. Johnson is not seeking reelection. Before announcing his resignation, Johnson corrected Mayor Charles Webster on one of his comments from the recent candidate forums at The Tribune. In the July 9 forum, featuring Webster and his opponent Jane Anderton, Webster said Johnson abstained from voting when the council shut down the library board and withdrew from the Alabama Public Library Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was voted on by city council. Two people abstained from that vote. One of them is Ms. Jane Andertons pastor. The other is his mother, Webster said in the Tribune forum. They both abstained from the vote. If there hadnt been a relationship there, both of those people would have probably voted to disband the board also. According to records, Bo Johnson did not abstain but his mother, fellow council member Becky Johnson, did abstain. Johnson was the lone vote against the measure as reported in the Tribune at the time. Webster told The Tribune he will likely appoint someone to fill the seat at the next council meeting on August 12. That person would serve until November, Webster said adding that Governor Ivey could intervene and name a replacement if the seat is open longer than 60 days. Ive got a couple of people in mind but Im not ready to say just yet, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is common for Class 7 and 8 cities to appoint a new person to the seat rather than leave it open. A Class 7 city, in Alabama, has a population of not less than 6,000 and not more than 11,999 citizens. Population estimates for Clay are slightly more than 10,000. Johnson serves as pastor at Refuge church on Sweeney Hollow Road. He founded the church as Living Word Church in 2004. He was appointed to his seat on the council in 2014 under similar circumstances when Mark Halstead moved out of the city and has retained the seat since that time. The Clay City Council meets at 6 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at City Hall. Council meeting agendas are usually posted on the city website at clayalabama.org. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. Starbucks (SBUX) reported a sixth straight quarterly drop in US same-store sales on Tuesday as the company continues to grapple with an uncertain consumer environment and its CEO's turnaround efforts. US same-store sales fell 2%, in line with the prior quarter's drop but less than the 2.5% drop that had been forecast. That was driven lower by a 4% decline in comparable transactions. Wall Street expected a sharper 4.5% decline. Starbucks "fixed a lot and done the hard work on the hard things to build a strong operating foundation and based on my experience of turnarounds, we are ahead of schedule," CEO Brian Niccol, who previously led the turnaround at Chipotle, said in the release. Starbucks stock was little changed near midday on Wednesday. Global same-store sales fell 2%, more than the 1.5% decline expected, per Bloomberg data, marking an acceleration from the previous quarter's 1% drop. Same-store sales in China rose 2% against forecasts for a 1.4% rise, driven by beverage innovation. The jump was driven by an increase in transactions, which was offset by a decline in the average ticket as the company lowered prices to compete with rival Luckin Coffee (LKNCY). This marks the second straight quarter of positive growth for its operations in China as the company seeks out a partner in the region. Niccol said Starbucks seeks a local partner that shares the same "belief that there's this opportunity to grow" and can set up the brand long-term. Adjusted earnings per share came in at $0.50, missing forecasts for $0.65 per share. Revenue rose 5% to $9.5 billion, more than the $9.3 billion that had been forecast. Read more: Live coverage of corporate earnings Since joining the company last fall, Niccol has tried to change the fortunes of the coffee chain by cutting staff earlier this year and announcing plans this month to require more staff to be in the office four days per week. The company has also incentivized its management team to more aggressively turn around the business, offering executives performance-based stock grants focused on cutting costs. The company plans to prioritize a cozy coffeehouse atmosphere and move away from pickup-focused experiences for customers. Consequently, Starbucks plans to execute small, targeted renovations of its stores, amounting to approximately $150,000 per location, to bring back the thousands of chairs for patrons it took away. For new locations, Niccol said it was able to cut the build cost by roughly 30% and will introduce a new stand-alone prototype in fiscal 2026 that will have 32 seats and a drive-through. KANSAS CITY, Mo. People with cognitive or communication impairments who might require extra help during emergencies can now participate in a new program run by the Clay County Sheriffs Office. Originally created by the Pensacola, Florida, Police Department, the Take Me Home Program collects information that may be useful if an individual is unable to communicate or correctly identify themselves, or if they become confused or behave in a way that could lead first responders to misinterpret them. View the latest headlines from Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas at fox4kc.com Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The program is entirely run by volunteers. Family members of Clay County residents with cognitive or communication impairments can register them online by providing identifying details, such as a photo, the persons condition or illness, and the contact information for caregivers. The information is available in a database that can only be accessed by law enforcement agencies in Clay County. Deputies or officers have the ability to view nearby program participants on a map or query the database. Take Me Home was initially created for people with elopement-related conditions, such as autism or dementia. However, in the event that a person with those conditions interacts with law enforcement, it can also be used to alert them to sensory or communication problems. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. CLAYTON, Mo. Police have made another arrest in connection to Claytons first armed robbery in 2025. On Monday, Clayton Police arrested a minor who they believed to be the second suspect, along with 18-year-old Javier Clark. Officials alleged that on July 19, the juvenile and Clark robbed two people at gunpoint around 8 p.m. near the intersection of North Central Avenue and Pershing Avenue. Close Thanks for signing up! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Surveillance videos, as well as tips from the community, assisted in tracking both suspects, who are now in custody. This case serves as a strong reminder of the critical role public cooperation plays in solving crimes. The collaboration between residents and law enforcement is vital to maintaining safety in our community, and we thank everyone who contributed to this successful outcome, the department wrote regarding the arrests. Clayton Police have referred the minor to the St. Louis County Juvenile Authorities for prosecution for first-degree robbery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clark was charged with three counts of first-degree robbery and one count of third-degree assault. He remains jailed in St. Louis County on a $350,000 cash-only bond. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. LINCOLN COUNTY, Mo. From weekend rescues to widespread damage, the small town of Elsberryabout 60 miles north of St. Louisis now focused on cleaning up and moving forward. It was really scary, flood victim Kylie Edwards described. (The water) was to my knees. I was trying to help my brothers and calm myself down because I was having a big panic attack. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Subscribe Now Daily News Another flood victim, Zachary Collins, captured the moment the floodwaters overtook homes and cars. We realized (the waters) were going up the steps of our deck, and were like, Shoot, everything underneath is probably going to be gone, Collins said. During this time, emergency responders rescued many from their homes as they were surrounded by floodwaters. In aftermath of the event, the American Red Cross has set up a relief hub at Elsberrys United Methodist Church. Flood victims who arrive at the church can receive hot meals, cleaning supplies and water. Were just trying to do what we can, said Mario Ammons, involved with Missouri Disaster Relief. Whether its carrying a bottle of water, passing out water or being a hand to hold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Red Cross Officials say cleanup efforts will continue through the week and there are encouraging donations of supplies and volunteers. 1 dead, 1 critically injured after altercation at north STL Wendys The Lincoln County Health Department is also assisting those affected. On Tuesday, the department will be offering tetanus, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis A vaccines at Elsberry City Park from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. No appointments are needed. According to health officials, flood victims, as well as first responders cleaning up the area, are more vulnerable to tetanus bacteria, as it exists everywhere in the environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During flood cleanup, residents affected by flooding, emergency responders, cleanup workers, or volunteers may be at increased risk for these injuries. For this reason, its important to ensure your tetanus vaccination is up to date, a spokesperson with the Lincoln County Health Department told FOX 2. Vaccines are also being offered at the Lincoln County Health Department in Troy, Missouri. For more information, the Lincoln County Health Department can be reached at 636-528-6117. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. The Brief Officials said they arrested Jeffry Knight, the operator of the private vessel that slammed into the Clearwater Ferry back in April. Knight was the owner of Jannus Live, who stepped down from his role days after the deadly crash. The crash left multiple people injured as well as Jose Castro dead. CLEARWATER, Fla. - Months after the deadly Clearwater Ferry crash, officials said they arrested the man operating the private vessel that slammed into the ferry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jeffry Knight, 62, was charged on Monday with eight counts of felony leaving the scene of a boating accident involving death and serious bodily injury. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Knight is also facing misdemeanor charges that are expected to be filed by the Pinellas County State Attorney's Office, including the following: Failure to maintain a safe speed. Failure to maintain a proper lookout, resulting in a fatal boating accident. Booking photo of Jeffry Knight. Courtesy: Pinellas County Jail. RELATED: Search warrant: Jeff Knight panicked and told his passengers to stop calling 911 after deadly ferry crash The backstory Officials said Knight, the former owner of Jannus Live who stepped down days after the deadly crash, was operating the private vessel when it slammed into the Clearwater Ferry on April 27. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ferry was carrying 45 passengers near the Memorial Causeway, and the impact of the crash caused multiple injuries as well as the death of Jose Castro, according to FWC. Multiple agencies responded in the aftermath of the crash, including FWC, the Clearwater Police Department, Clearwater Fire Department, Pinellas County Sheriffs Office and the United States Coast Guard. PREVIOUS: Clearwater Ferry crash victim sues Jeffry Knight after deadly collision Dig deeper During their months-long investigation, FWC officials said Knight left the scene of the crash and headed south toward his home. That's when investigators said the PCSO stopped him in the water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of the crash, Knight told investigators he at first stayed at the scene to render aid to ferry passengers. He said his boat began to take on water, so he left, and thats why his boat was at the Belleair Boat Ramp. In an electronic data search warrant issued by FWC, it was revealed that passengers on Knight's boat told investigators after the crash, Knight was panicked and told them, "My life is over. I'm going to lose everything," and tried to stop them from calling 911. The warrant also alleges Knight's all-around white light was not displayed on his boat. Criminal Defense Attorney, Anthony Rickman, who is not affiliated with the case said Knight's arrest does not come as a surprise. "As the story played out, as the people on his boat started to talk to the State Attorney's Office, when we hear the 911 calls, and we see the investigation, the truth is starting to come out, and the truth is different than what Knight really portrayed it to be," he added. "We see facts that Jeff Knight was only concerned about his own well-being than the well-being of individuals on that boat, many of whom were seriously injured and one killed." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FWC officers investigated the case, which included reviewing surveillance video, analyzing physical evidence and interviewing numerous witnesses. The Coast Guard also investigated the Clearwater Ferry's involvement in the crash. What they're saying "Were proud of the cooperative efforts between our agency, law enforcement partners, and the State Attorneys Office to bring justice to those impacted by this tragic event," said FWC Southwest Regional Commander Major Evan Laskowski. MORE: Clearwater Ferry crash: Firefighters describe rescue efforts after deadly boating incident FWC also extended their condolences to those involved in a press release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Jose Castro, as well as to all those injured and affected by this incident." What's next The FWC will hold a briefing at 3 p.m. on Tuesday about their investigation into the deadly Clearwater Ferry crash. The Source The information in this story was released by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. A data center developer will go before Clifton Twp. zoners Tuesday to challenge the validity of the townships zoning ordinance amid efforts to construct more than two dozen data center buildings in Clifton and Covington townships. The Clifton Twp. Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Gouldsboro Fire Station, 490 Main St., to consider a substantive validity challenge filed by 1778 Rich Pike LLC, according to a public notice published July 18 in The Times-Tribune. The challenge contends that the townships zoning ordinance wrongfully excluded data centers, data center equipment, data center accessory uses/structures and private power generation facilities. Municipalities in Pennsylvania are required to allow for every type of lawful land use somewhere within their boundaries. The proposed data center campus has faced substantial resistance from North Pocono residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Based out of Doylestown, 1778 Rich Pike LLC proposes to build as many as 30 data centers across just under 1,000 acres split between Clifton and Covington townships on either side of Interstate 380, just north of Clifton Beach Road. Each building would be up to three stories with about 125,000 square feet per floor. The developer previously proposed up to 34 data centers, but attorney Tony Maras, who represents 1778 Rich Pike, said in a text Monday 25 to 30 buildings is a likely range. Maras previously explained the site selection due to its proximity to PPLs 230-kilovolt power lines, access to high-speed fiber optic data lines and the available local workforce. Last week, Covington Twp. supervisors approved an ordinance on Thursday amending the townships zoning to address data centers and related uses, creating a Data Center and Energy Technology zoning district along Interstate 380, and putting in place the zoning and standards to establish, construct and operate data centers while protecting the public, according to the ordinance. The ordinance allows data centers to be up to 120 feet tall, with up to 200 feet for water towers and power generation facilities. It also adds small modular reactors, or SMRs, to township zoning, requiring approval as special exceptions. SMRs are a class of small nuclear fission reactors designed to be built in a factory, shipped to operational sites for installation and then used to power buildings or other commercial operations, according to the ordinance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Covington Twp.s ordinance makes data centers a conditional use, meaning the developer would have to apply for a conditional use permit that requires them to meet a series of conditions established by the township for approval from supervisors. The township also requires data center developers or users to submit a master plan. The master plan will show the data centers and their accessory uses, energy generation stations, preserved land, flood plains, wetlands, surveys, traffic information, an estimated economic impact statement and an environmental impact statement, Covington Twp. Solicitor Joel Wolff said Monday. As part of the process, data center developers will have to show items like 100-foot woodland buffers around the property, sound studies and an analysis of all water needs, he said. The water study is more demanding, with developers having to submit an analysis of all their water needs, whether they will use public or private sources for water, documentation of existing wells within 1,000 feet of their property lines, and show whether there is an adequate water supply, Wolff said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If theres any likelihood of adverse impacts on the existing wells, they wont get approved, he said, explaining the ordinance aims to protect citizens and natural resources. The townships board of supervisors can also conduct their own sound and water studies at the expense of the developer, Wolff said. Supervisors voted 3-2 on the legislation last week following a lengthy public hearing, Wolff said. In Clifton Twp., 1778 Rich Pike LLC filed its substantive validity challenge on April 17. Later that day, supervisors met to introduce a zoning amendment governing data centers, which they adopted the following month. Similar to Covington Twp., the ordinance defined data centers and made them conditional uses, establishing conditions like woodland buffers and setback requirements; an analysis of raw water needs with a water feasibility study required for nonpublic sources of water, including approval from the Susquehanna or Delaware river basin commissions; an agreement with an electric service provider; and a sound study. The ordinance also restricts the height of data centers to 35 feet a figure the developers attorney previously said is too low to allow for adequate cooling and airflow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On June 20, 1778 Rich Pike LLC and JCO LLC, 207 Drinker Turnpike, Covington Twp. which is the legal owner of a large chunk of the proposed data center land filed a procedural validity challenge against Clifton Twp. in the Lackawanna County Court of Common Pleas that asked the court to declare the data center ordinance void due to procedural issues like failing to properly post an agenda 24 hours ahead of the May 22 special meeting to adopt the ordinance and failing to have its planning commission review the ordinance, according to the challenge. Rich Troscianecki, president of the nonprofit North Pocono CARE (Citizens Alert Regarding the Environment), raised concerns Monday about the high environmental impact of data centers, pointing to their power utilization and water utilization, noise, and pollution if they use gas generators. Just the destruction of 1,000 forested acres is mind boggling to me, he said. Thats what keeps the water clean up here. There wont be any recovery from it. If they do any damage at all, one slip of the finger, and its gone. Troscianecki worried about the impacts on residents, flora, fauna, water quality and fisheries. The land slated for development includes forests, wetlands, swamps, ponds, and the Meadow Brook as well as two unnamed streams flow through it, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its just the wrong spot to put it, he said. Were trying to protect what we have up here. Like Troscianecki, June Ejk, a former Clifton Twp. supervisor of 12 years who helped launch a Concerned Clifton Citizens Facebook page in February, also criticized the location. Residents in both Clifton and Covington townships use wells for water, as there is no public water system, she said, raising concerns over the impact on their water, the environment, wildlife, deforestation, light pollution and the potential for small modular nuclear reactors in Covington Twp.s zoning. If her townships zoning hearing board grants the substantive validity challenge, Ejk hopes they ensure it will not harm the public health, safety and welfare. That might be raising concerns about water usage, noise, fire protection, power surges, the increased cost of power to the residents, she said. If they find that the ordinance is not exclusionary, the developer will not be able to build the project as proposed. WEST FORK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) A Prairie Grove couple was killed on a hiking trail at Devils Den State Park on Saturday, and the search for the suspect is ongoing. Arkansas State Police identified the victims as Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41. Their daughters, ages 7 and 9, were unharmed and are safe with family, authorities said. Heres what we know about the victims: ASP and Prairie Grove Mayor David Faulk said that the family had recently moved to the area. Falk said in a statement to KNWA/FOX24 on Monday that their water service was turned on in Prairie Grove on July 16. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clinton Brink had been scheduled to start a job as a milk delivery driver on Monday in Fayetteville, Hiland Dairy, his employer, said in a statement to the Associated Press. He had transferred from Hiland Dairys parent company, Prairie Farms Dairy, in South Dakota. Clinton and Cristen died heroes protecting their little girls, and they deserve justice, the Brink family said in a statement. They will forever live in all of our hearts. Manhunt continues for Devils Den double homicide suspect, what to know Danikka Harrell, a nurse at a rehabilitation center in Montana, told the Associated Press that the Brinks had also lived in that state for several years starting around 2018 and played on a recreational volleyball team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the summer, the Brinks would set up a volleyball net at a local park and encourage people to play, she said. Harrell said that when she struggled to find child care, the Brinks allowed her daughter to stay with them without a thought and that Cristen Brink would often bring a plate of food when she brought the girl back home. They were selfless and unconditional with their love and support for their friends, Harrell said. Search for suspect continues ASP is still searching for the suspect connected to the couples death. On Monday, the FBI said its Little Rock office would assist ASP in search efforts. Police sketch of double homicide suspect at Devils Den (Courtesy: Arkansas State Police) A composite sketch of the suspect was released by ASP on Monday evening. He was described as a white man with a medium build. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities believe he was wearing a long-sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up, as well as black pants, a dark ballcap and sunglasses. Arkansas State Police releases sketch of suspect in double homicide at Devils Den State Park ASP says it believes the man was wearing a black backpack and was wearing fingerless gloves when he escaped from Devils Den. Police say he was seen driving toward a park exit in a black, four-door sedan, believed to be a Mazda, with the license plate covered by electrical or duct tape. He could have been seen leaving the park either on State Highway 170 or State Highway 220. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is asked to contact ASP Troop L at 479-751-6663 or call 911. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. CENTENNIAL, Colo. (AP) A Colorado dentist carried a syringe into the hospital room where his wife was bedbound with a mysterious illness, and after he left, she rapidly deteriorated and eventually died, prosecutors said Tuesday. The syringe, they said, carried cyanide. Prosecutor Michael Mauro and the defense wrapped up closing arguments Tuesday afternoon in the murder trial of James Craig in suburban Denver, and jurors began deliberating before pausing for the night with plans to resume Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Craig is accused of murdering his wife of 23 years by gradually poisoning her over 10 days in March 2023, putting her in the hospital where Craig allegedly gave her a fatal and final dose. One of Craigs attorneys, Lisa Fine Moses, fiercely pushed back in court. The photos from hospital security cameras of Craig holding a syringe, she said, were blurry and the needles that were recovered by investigators didnt contain poison. After Craig was arrested on suspicion of murder, he was further accused of offering to pay others to make it appear his wife, Angela Craig, was suicidal and asking a fellow jail inmate to kill the detective investigating his wife's death. Craig's motives in killing his wife, said Mauro, were to avoid the reputational and financial burden of divorce, cash in on life insurance and spend time with a woman with whom he was having an affair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Refuting suggestions that Angela Craig was suicidal, Mauro described her as resilient and hopeful. She is the ultra-marathon runner of dealing with this mans betrayal," he said. But she couldnt outrun it at University Hospital on March 15. Moses disputed the idea that Craig was in financial straits, saying they weren't late on bills and owned a pricey home. As for his cheating, Moses argued, it had been going on for years, was known to Angela Craig and had never been a motivation for murder before. So you know what, good job, Moses said sarcastically, looking at the prosecution, you proved beyond a reasonable doubt that this guy is a cheater. Craig's defense attorneys didn't dispute that poison cyanide and tetrahydrozoline were found in Angela Craig's body, but that prosecutors failed to prove Craig had done it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, Moses suggested Angela Craig was broken" by Craig's years of infidelity and may have taken her own life. She pointed to a journal entry where Angela Craig wrote in 2009: I feel depressed. I feel a huge sense of loss with no hope and similar entries in 2018. As the entries were read, Craig wiped his nose and eyes with a tissue. Moses said police were biased from the start against Craig. They didn't search Angela Craig's computer, said Moses, or find traces of cyanide in a smoothie shaker prosecutors said Craig used to poison his wife. In the days before his wife's death, prosecutors said, Craig searched online about poisons, including How to make murder look like a heart attack." Craig allegedly ordered several different poisons that he furtively administered to Angela Craig in protein shakes and pills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Angela Craig went in and out of the hospital, her symptoms stumping doctors. She went brain-dead on her third visit and died days later. James Craig didnt testify, and his lawyers didnt present any witnesses. In notes police found on James Craigs phone, the dentist had written that Angela Craig asked him to help kill her with poison when he sought a divorce. In the document, labeled timeline, Craig wrote that he eventually agreed to purchase and prepare poisons for her to take, but not administer them. Craig said that he put cyanide in some of the antibiotic capsules she had been taking and also prepared a syringe containing cyanide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to that timeline, Craig wrote that just before she went to the hospital on March 15, 2023, she must have ingested a mixture containing tetrahydrozoline, the eye drop ingredient, because she became lethargic and weak. Then, he wrote, she took the antibiotic laced with cyanide he prepared for her. Angela Craig's brother, Mark Pray, who was visiting to help with Angela Craig's mysterious illness, testified that he gave Angela Craig the capsules on the instructions of James Craig, who was not at home. Pray said his sister bent over and couldnt hold herself up after taking the medicine. He and his wife then took her to the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jurors have the option of finding Craig guilty of manslaughter if they believe he helped his wife kill herself. But prosecutors say the only evidence Angela Craig wanted to end her life comes from James Craig, who they say isnt reliable and allegedly tried to fabricate evidence making it look like his wife died by suicide. _____ Slevin reported from Denver. SPRINGFIELD, Mo. The co-founder of Return to the Land (RTTL), a whites-only private member association developing a community in northern Arkansas and expanding to Missouri, has spoken to Ozarks First regarding a stabbing incident he was involved in at a decentralized vegan community in Ecuador. Eric Orwoll, RTTL co-founder, told Ozarks First last week that a group of people is considering developing an RTTL community near Springfield. Ozarks First has discovered that one of RTTLs co-founders, Peter Csere, was once part of a vegan community in Ecuador called Fruit Haven that featured similar RTTL components, such as community land buys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Cseres GoFundMe that was created when he sought financial assistance for legal aid after a violent incident with miners, he was investigated by Ecuadorian authorities for attempted homicide, but Csere maintains his innocence, saying the incident was a case of self-defense. Fruit Havens website which Csere said isnt accurate anymore and is run by one person in the United States accuses Csere of financial misuse and violence. A Fruit Haven contact, however, said there are still 40 owners in the community. Prior to his departure, Csere was involved in a violent incident with Ecuadorian miners illegally operating on a then recently purchased property, FH9, Fruit Havens website says. Fruit Haven says that following repeated conflicts and threats, Csere while accompanied by government officials documented the mining activity with a drone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fruit Haven says that during the altercation, Csere stabbed one of the miners, supposedly to defend himself, resulting in a collapsed lung to one of the Ecuadorian miners. (Csere) subsequently faced criminal charges in Ecuador, which likely influenced his decision to leave the country, Fruit Haven added. But, Csere says, Fruit Havens account of the incident with the miners is quite inaccurate. Government inspectors from the Ministry of the Environment asked me to accompany them on an inspection of an illegal operation, Csere said. Miners attacked us (me and our two Ecuadorian workers and the government inspector). It was an unprovoked attack using logs, machetes, and pepper spray. Csere said the miners threatened to kill them, and they managed to defend themselves and run away. He denounced violence but supported self-defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Bible teaches us to turn the other cheek in our response to personal slights and offenses, but it also teaches us that self-defense and defense of ones family is legitimate, Csere said. Csere said RTTL is a lawful organization that does not condone violence, and if a member were to commit a serious crime, they would be expelled. The group requires a criminal background check for everyone who joins an RTTL community. State lawmaker responds to whites-only community potentially coming to Springfield Csere told Ozarks First he left Ecuador in 2023. He said that while some media reports claim he fled the country because the miners were attempting to press charges against him from an altercation, he actually left many months after the incident occurred. Additionally, he said his travel was not restricted and that there were no charges pressed against him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were many reasons for leaving, Csere said. The community I lived in embraced a lifestyle that I consider to be immoral and degenerate. The Ecuadorian government was incompetent and corrupt, and crime was rising every year. Csere said he wanted to start a family and live in a community with wholesome, traditional values. He met Orwoll after he saw a video Orwoll had made discussing a meetup in Missouri in 2023. That video was shared to an existing community in the Ozarks that is similar to RTTL, and at the time, Csere was already considering moving to the Ozarks to start a homestead. LOCAL LEADERS CONDEMN RTTL Several Springfield-area leaders have condemned RTTL, including the NAACP Springfield Chapter, which released a statement today on Tuesday, July 29. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The NAACP Springfield Chapter vehemently condemns the proposed expansion of RTTL, a community explicitly designated as whites-only, beyond the borders of Springfield, the statement says. Such a move starkly contradicts our core values of equity, inclusion, and justice, and undermines the progress toward racial equality that our city has strived to achieve. The NAACP said RTTLs segregationist stance perpetuates division and discrimination, and its expansion outside Springfield threatens to undermine the principles of unity and diversity that are fundamental to our communitys fabric. We call on Springfields leaders to publicly denounce this initiative and to stand in opposition to any efforts that promote racial segregation or exclusion, the statement says. The NAACP extended appreciation to elected officials such as Representative Jeremy Dean, Councilwoman Monica Horton and others, who have condemned RTTL. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no room in Springfield, no room in Missouri for a group to come and call home that sets us back decades and decades and allows segregation and racism and horrible, awful rhetoric to exist in our own community, said Missouri State Representative Betsy Fogle. While no City official has been contacted regarding an alleged whites only proposed development in the Springfield area, City Manager David Cameron made it clear that there is no place anywhere, let alone in Springfield, Missouri, for this type of development. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) Five suspected migrants aboard a 20-foot vessel off the coast of San Diego were taken into custody Sunday. The incident occurred around 7:01 p.m. around 2.5 miles southwest of Point Loma, the United States Coast Guard said in a news release Monday. Coast Guard Sector San Diego intercepted a vessel heading north towards Mission Bay after crossing the Maritime Boundary Line. Rare whale spotted off San Diego coast Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aboard the boat were three individuals claiming Mexican nationality, one claiming Guatemalan nationality and one claiming Peruvian nationality, according to Coast Guard officials. The suspected migrants were taken to Ballast Point to transfer custody to another U.S. Department of Homeland Security agency. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) The United States Coast Guard Sector Charleston is searching for the owner of an overturned sailing boat that was found in the Stono River. The 18 foot white boat was found near the entrance with registration number MD 1629 P, Coast Guard officials said. Anyone with information should contact the Charleston office at 843-740-7050. The Coast Guard urges vessel owners to properly secure their boats to help prevent hazards to other mariners and the maritime environment. Vessel owners should keep registration and contact information up to date to allow quick identification if a vessel is found adrift, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. The program losses are accounting changes that impact net income and earnings per share (EPS), but not cash flow. Lockheed lowered its full-year diluted EPS and operating profit guidance, but its revenue, capital expenditures, and free cash flow (FCF) guidance remain the same. This means that Lockheed's long-term investments and capital return programs aren't impacted. The losses appear unfavorable on paper, but if they result in a higher-quality order book, they may be worth it in the long run. Lockheed exited the latest quarter with a total backlog of $166.53 billion across its four segments -- which is a little over two full years' worth of revenue. The backlog provides a consistent revenue stream that can be used to manage cash flow and invest in future projects. However, some projects in the backlog are better than others. That is why Lockheed has been reviewing projects and addressing challenges to try to improve its processes or restructure programs when necessary. In fourth-quarter 2024, Lockheed announced $1.72 billion in program losses from classified programs . Investors hate uncertainty, and the company's latest quarter marks the second major disappointment in less than a year. However, the stock appears to be a compelling buy for long-term investors. The defense contractor's earnings came in much lower than expected due to pre-tax losses on programs of $1.6 billion and other charges of $169 million. Investing $10,000 into each of the following stocks -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), International Paper Company (NYSE: IP), and Chevron (NYSE: CVX) -- should achieve that goal by producing around $1,100 in annual dividend income based on the forward dividend yields of these stocks. Here's why all three stocks stand out as top buys now. Regardless of the use case, some investors may be seeking to generate a specific amount of passive income, such as $1,000 per year. Investing in dividend stocks can be a great way to generate passive income that can be used in retirement, to cover a portion of living expenses, or to reinvest in the stock market. Lockheed Martin stock has fallen so much that it is now too cheap to ignore. Story Continues The company plans to generate $6.7 billion in FCF at the midpoint of guidance, returning around $3 billion to shareholders through buybacks and $3.1 billion through dividends. So, despite the lower EPS figure, Lockheed is still supporting its entire capital return program with FCF. Lockheed has a solid track record of growing its dividend, with 22 consecutive years of boosting its payout. At 3.1%, Lockheed has the highest dividend yield among the major defense contractors (RTX, Northrop Grumman, L3Harris Technologies, General Dynamics, and Honeywell International all yield under 2%). It also has the lowest forward price-to-earnings ratio of the major defense contractors -- signaling the stock is a good value and could look like a bargain in hindsight if it can return to meaningful earnings growth. All told, Lockheed is a good choice for investors who believe the company can regain its footing and become a good value in the long run. In the meantime, the stock's dividend yield is a worthwhile incentive to get paid to wait for the fundamentals to improve. A solid stock for passive income-seeking investors Lee Samaha (International Paper): Trading on a near 4% dividend yield, International Paper offers investors a relatively safe, if unexciting, way to generate income. That will suit investors who like investments in so-called "boring" stocks. The company generates slightly over half of its sales from the processed food & beverage (34%) and fresh food (20%) end markets, with a further 18% coming from the higher-growth e-commerce & logistics market and the rest from non-durables and durables. Food and e-commerce are attractive markets to be in as they ensure revenue stability. Additionally, International Paper has an earnings growth opportunity through its acquisition of the U.K. packaging company DS Smith, which was completed in January of this year. Consolidating an already mature industry and generating cost and revenue synergies (to offset a lack of top-line growth) is usually a good strategy, and International Paper's management believes it will generate $600 million to $700 million in synergies by the fourth year of the deal. Management also anticipates achieving a free cash flow (FCF) of $2 billion to $2.5 billion in 2027 and plans to distribute 40% to 50% of its FCF as dividends. Taking the midpoint of both figures implies $1.01 billion in cash dividends in 2027, a significant improvement from the $643 million paid in 2024. While the current trading environment isn't ideal, International Paper is a solid company with some underlying earnings growth prospects and offers a sustainable dividend for investors seeking passive income. Chevron projects strong cash flow growth despite lower energy prices. Scott Levine (Chevron): In most cases, those seeking reliable dividend stocks are prioritizing reliability over yield. But to have both -- a company with a proven track record of consistently rewarding shareholders and an attractive yield? That's a winning combination. For these investors, therefore, oil supermajor Chevron should shine brightly on income investors' radars right now thanks to its almost four-decade history of annual dividend hikes and its 4.5% forward-yielding dividend. Besides Chevron's history of increasing its payout and its high-yield dividend, the allure of Chevron stock lies in the company's operations throughout the entire energy value chain. This diversity in Chevron's operations helps to insulate it from the volatility associated with downturns in energy prices. With the price of global oil benchmark Brent crude dropping about 16% over the past year, some energy companies have lowered their immediate growth expectations. Chevron, however, forecasts production and free cash flow to rise higher over the next couple of years, even if Brent averages $70 per barrel. Thanks to production growth in the Gulf of America and in the Permian, Chevron projects daily production will rise from 3.34 million barrels of oil equivalent in 2024 to 3.4 million to 3.47 million barrels of oil equivalent for 2025. If Brent crude remains at an average of $70 per barrel, Chevron sees production rising another 3% to 6% from 2025 to 2026. Also, Chevron expects free cash flow to grow over the next couple of years due to increased activity in the Permian and TCO project in Kazakhstan. In total, the company projects an additional $9 billion in free cash flow by 2026 with Brent crude averaging $60 per barrel. For income-focused investors, Chevron stock is a great option for fueling their passive income streams. Do the experts think Lockheed Martin is a buy right now? The Motley Fools expert analyst team, drawing on years of investing experience and deep analysis of thousands of stocks, leverages our proprietary Moneyball AI investing database to uncover top opportunities. Theyve just revealed their 10 best stocks to buy now did Lockheed Martin make the list? When our Stock Advisor analyst team has a stock recommendation, it can pay to listen. After all, Stock Advisors total average return is up 1,041% vs. just 183% for the S&P that is beating the market by 858.71%!* Imagine if you were a Stock Advisor member when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $636,628!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,063,471!* The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of July 28, 2025 Daniel Foelber has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Lee Samaha has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Scott Levine has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Chevron and L3Harris Technologies. The Motley Fool recommends Lockheed Martin and RTX. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. All It Takes Is $10,000 Invested in Each of These 3 S&P 500 Dividend Stocks to Help Generate Over $1,000 in Passive Income Per Year was originally published by The Motley Fool The next time you decide to buy a Coke, you may be supporting a crop that's essential to over half the world's population. Vietnam Investment Review reported that Coca-Cola Beverages Vietnam has launched a new sustainable rice farming project with agri-tech company Rize Vietnam and Ben & Archie, a global innovation studio. The rice collaboration falls under the soda giant's sustainability community engagement initiative, EkoClimate, which is part of its expansive EkoCenter network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From a Community Engagement Workshop that welcomes the farmers' families to assistance in converting to Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) and Maximum Residue Limit techniques, 42 small rice farmers will take steps in producing more resilient and cost-effective crops. As a result, they can save water and reduce climate-warming methane release thanks to the use of intermittent drying versus constantly flooded rice fields. The Mekong Delta has been facing more salinity intrusion on freshwater sources and drought, according to the Health and Agricultural Policy Research Institute. Therefore, making eco-friendly adjustments to a pivotal crop is a must for food and water security. According to Vietnam Investment Review, the Coca-Cola collaboration can help farmers in the world's third-largest rice exporter lower their production costs by 20 to 30% each season while ensuring good rice quality and protecting their rising market value. Bui Khanh Nguyen, vice president of public affairs, communications, and sustainability at Coca-Cola Beverages Vietnam, told Vietnam Investment Review, "We are proud to create employment opportunities for the local workforce, and to continue delivering positive, lasting impacts to the surrounding communities." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the news from Vietnam, support for the food-grade plastic startup CuRe, and adding electric delivery vehicles spotlight Coca-Cola's attempt at cleaner and safer practices, the company has often been more associated with greenwashing instead of being green-friendly. The soda brand has earned the label of the leading producer of plastic waste. While some plants have replaced the plastic six-pack rings with fiber-based ones, it doesn't negate the damage those plastic rings have already done in oceans and to wildlife for decades. Beyond choosing certain drinks, there are several ways to support eco-friendly initiatives by mainstream brands. Donate old clothes to Trashie and look out for their high-level collaborations, such as the NBA. Check out the NovaPoly brand from Hugo Boss, which is made from natural, high-quality materials. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) A New Brockton man who was once accused of sending package bombs that killed a federal judge in Alabama and a Georgia civil rights lawyer but was later proven to be innocent has died. Robert Wayne OFerrell died on Friday, July 25, in Coffee County at the age of 81, an obituary from Sorrells Funeral Home revealed. OFerrell was wrongfully accused in the 1989 bombing deaths of Judge Robert Vance and Atlanta attorney Robert Robertson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Vance was killed on Dec. 16, 1989, when a package bomb delivered to his home in Mountain Brook exploded. The blast seriously hurt Vances wife, Helen. FORMER STORY: Man formerly accused of killing federal judge seeks justice Robertson was killed by a similar explosion just a few days later in Savannah. Other bombs were sent to locations in Atlanta and Jacksonville, but government agents intentionally detonated those, and no one was reportedly injured. It was the largest story in the country at the time, OFerrells attorney, William Gill, said. WDHN spoke with OFerrell in January 2020 after he filed a lawsuit against the FBI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to previous reports, a little over a month after the bombings, FBI agents arrived at OFerrells shop in Enterprise to tell him that he was the main suspect in the bombing. I never knew either one, the lawyers, OFerrell later told WDHN. I never knew none of them so it was as shock to us, especially when they come in, called on me and accused me of doing it. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies stayed around Enterprise to keep surveillance on OFerrell and his family. OFerrells attorney told WDHN that when the FBI was prepping for the raid on OFerrells home and business, they alerted media from around the country to gather in Enterprise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sad thing is that Mr. OFerrell loved America and was a real patriotic man but he never received an apology or compensation from the federal government for what the FBI and other federal law enforcement put him and his family through, said Gill in an email to WDHN. He should not have left this world without that happening. Court records and past reports claim OFerrell was named a suspect because a letter to his insurance agency typed by him allegedly matched the typewriter used to write the death letter threats and bomb package labels. The typewriter used to type the bombing letters had a misplaced A key, and OFerrell sold typewriters out of his store. However, despite the FBIs raids, surveillance, and investigation revolving around the Enterprise businessman, a new suspect, Walter Leroy Moody, was later arrested, and OFerrell was released from the FBIs radar. Moody would be convicted of the killings and executed in 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OFerrell and Gill filed their lawsuit against the federal government, but never received closure from the FBI. They fingered printed me; they took pictures of me, O Ferrell told WDHN in 2018. I had to empty my billfold, everything in my billfold. They went through everything in my pocket and all this kind of stuff, and it was ridiculous. During his 2020 interview with WDHN, OFerrell said he had written multiple letters to government officials about the harassment and eventually received two responses, including one from President Donald Trump. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. FARRAGUT, Tenn. (WATE) A new 7 Brew Coffee may be coming to Turkey Creek in Farragut, according to town documents. The Farragut Municipal Planning Commission is scheduled to discuss a site plan for the proposed coffee shop on August 5. It would be located at 11495 Parkside Drive. A town spokesperson said that the project is still in the early stages of discussion, but the plan is for a new standalone building in front of the PGA TOUR Superstore. Man charged with DUI after Knox County deputy injured in serious crash Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 7 Brew Coffee has many other locations in Tennessee, including in Athens, Greenville and Morristown. Turkey Creek is a popular shopping center in Farragut. Last month, Nordstrom Rack announced that it plans to open a new location there in 2026. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side. SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) The Coke County Sheriffs Office has identified the suspect from the ongoing manhunt in Robert Lee on Tuesday, July 29. According to law enforcement, the suspects name is Ezequiel Saldana, a Hispanic male. The reason for the manhunt is his outstanding warrant for Sexual Assault. RELATED: Manhunt underway in Robert Lee for fleeing suspect The manhunt began Sunday, July 27, when the suspect fled from law enforcement at the 200 block of Second Street in Robert Lee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coke County is still actively searching for Saldana and has not given any more information at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com. KANSAS CITY, Ks. Wyandotte County Sheriff Daniel Soptic knew 34-year-old Deputy Elijah Ming for nine years. That was the amount of time he was with the law enforcement agency. Soptics in his first term as sheriff. Man faces capital murder charge in deadly shooting of Wyandotte County deputy FOX4 talked to Soptic for about 10 minutes Monday. We asked him what kind of person Ming was. He said he wishes he could draw a picture of how to really explain it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He would light up a room when he would smile, Soptic said. Thats something about him that Ill never forget. Soptic says thats how hell choose to remember Ming, not what happened to him Saturday when he was shot and killed. I could walk in in the morning, and hes walking out for shift, hed smile, he continued. It was like the lights were turned up in the hallway. Soptic said it didnt matter what type of funk you were in; Elijah Mings smile was infectious. In front of the Wyandotte County Sheriffs Office and Courthouse, people laid flowers on his patrol vehicle. Sheriffs deputies laid flowers on the car late Monday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Northwest of the courthouse, Wilsons Pizza & Grill Owner Gary Wilson says finding out that one of his customers was shot and killed Saturday touched him. I was so used to him coming in at least once a week, coming to see me, or maybe sometimes twice a week, he would stop in and get something to eat, ya know? Wilson said in an interview with FOX4 Monday. It really just knocked me down, and it took a toll on me, yeah. Wilson said hed talked to Ming when hed come in. Vigil held for fallen Wyandotte deputy Elijah Ming I had knew him as a little boy because every weekend his dad and them would always come up here and get pizza when his kids were growing up, and then when he came in as being a sheriff deputy, we got to talking, and I kept looking at the young man and he told me who he was. I said, I remember you. I said, Every weekend, your dad would come up here and get pizza from me.' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A candlelight vigil is set for 8:30 Wednesday evening in front of the Wyandotte County Sheriffs Office and Courthouse to remember Ming. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Senate Appropriations committee Chairwoman Patty Murray (D-WA) (L) and Ranking Member Susan Collins (R-ME) (R) participate in a hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on November 20, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) With the White House slow to distribute congressionally appropriated funds for the National Institutes of Health, some senators from President Donald Trumps party, including Maines Susan Collins, are making appeals to his agenda in an attempt to urge follow through. Maine is still waiting on roughly $50 million in NIH funding, according to Collins office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee, and 13 of her Republican colleagues sent a letter to Russell Vought, director of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget, last week raising concern about the slow pace of NIH funding disbursement, which was allocated for research related to cancer, cardiovascular disease, rare pediatric disorders and more. These vital efforts are not only necessary to Make America Healthy Again, the senators wrote, referring to the slogan used by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., but also have a direct impact on American families, biomedical innovation, our economy, and competing with Communist China. The senators went on to write that they share Voughts commitment to ensuring NIH funds are used responsibly and not diverted to ideological or unaccountable programs, a nod to Trumps vow to eliminate federal support for what the administration deems diversity, equity and inclusion programs and government waste. Withholding or suspending these funds would jeopardize that trust and hinder progress on critical health challenges facing our nation, the senators wrote. Ultimately, this is about finding cures and seeing them through to fruition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration has suspended and cut many NIH and other federal grants this year in ambition of those goals. Some have been reinstated piece by piece following congressional pushback, including the recent unfreezing of billions in Education Department funding following bipartisan criticism. As of the latest available data from June 21, Maine has received about $65 million from NIH awards so far this fiscal year, which ends September 30, with most almost $49 million going to Jackson Laboratory. In fiscal year 2024, Maine received nearly $125 million from NIH funds, again with most nearly $82 million allocated to the Bar Harbor biomedical research organization. Of that, almost $68 million of the NIH funds in 2024 were specifically research project grants, whereas so far based on available 2025 data the state has received just shy of $40 million in grants. Jackson Laboratory declined to comment on the delayed distribution and also declined this past spring to comment on Collins performance as a top appropriator during Trumps second term, in light of criticism that her power is being undermined by the presidents withholding of congressionally appropriated funds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pushback from Republicans regarding the slow distribution of NIH funds could preview what is now looking to be another rebuke from the presidents own party to his attempt to gut future science research funding. In May, the White House proposed the agency receive $27.9 billion in the next fiscal year, about $18 billion lower than fiscal 2025 levels. This would amount to a cut that is so large that the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office hasnt been able to predict the impact using its current models. However, it doesnt appear that the House or Senate bills will propose such a drastic cut based on spending blueprints released by appropriations committees. As members of Congress are debating the federal medical research budget, new national polling on the topic is being shared by the Republican-aligned Public Opinion Strategies, who conducted a national survey on behalf of a campaign, United for Cures, launched by the advocacy group UsAgainstAlzheimer to oppose the Trump administrations funding cuts to health agencies and medical research. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The opt-in online national survey of 1,000 registered voters conducted in late June, with a credibility interval of +3.53%, found that nearly two-thirds of voters oppose Trumps proposed cut, with 62% of voters saying they would be less likely to vote for a member of Congress who voted for the cuts. As we approach the midterm elections, this is something that does have the potential to be a political liability, Jim Hobart, partner with Public Opinion Strategies, told Maine Morning Star. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe has been found guilty of witness tampering and bribery in a landmark trial, becoming the countrys first ex-president to ever be found guilty at trial. Judge Sandra Liliana Heredia ruled on Monday that there was enough evidence to determine that Uribe, 73, conspired with a lawyer to coax three former members of paramilitary groups who were in prison into changing testimony they had provided to Ivan Cepeda, a left-wing senator who had launched an investigation into Uribes alleged ties to a paramilitary group in the 1990s. The case dates to 2012, when Uribe filed a libel suit against Cepeda with the Supreme Court. But in a twist, the high court dismissed the charges against Cepeda and began investigating Uribe in 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uribe faces up to 12 years in prison, but a sentencing will be delivered in a separate hearing on Friday. He is expected to appeal the ruling. Uribes critics have celebrated his trial as the deserved downfall of a man repeatedly accused of close relationships with violent right-wing paramilitaries, but never convicted of any crime. The former leader, 73, and his supporters say the process is a persecution and that he is innocent. Uribe and one of his lawyers, Jaime Granados, joined the hearing via videolink, while another lawyer, Jaime Lombana, appeared in person. This is not the end of this process, the appeal is next and we are going to demonstrate that this decision, which we respect, is wrong, lawyer Juan Felipe Amaya, part of Uribes legal team, told journalists at the court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Granados told the hearing that the presumption of Uribes innocence should be maintained and asked for him to remain free during the remainder of the process. Both detractors and supporters gathered outside the court, with some Uribe backers sporting masks of his face. Even if the conviction is eventually upheld, Uribe may be allowed to serve his final sentence on house arrest because of his age. A man holds a mask depicting former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe, during a protest in support of him outside the Paloquemao court complex before the ruling in a criminal case against him, in Bogota, Colombia, July 28, 2025 [Luisa Gonzalez/Reuters] Uribes trial triggered criticism from United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Uribe had a close relationship with the US during his two terms as president between 2002 and 2010, as right-wing governments in Latin America have often had. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uribes only crime has been to tirelessly fight and defend his homeland. The weaponisation of Colombias judicial branch by radical judges has now set a worrisome precedent, Rubio said on X. Colombian President Gustavo Petro, a leftist, defended the ruling, writing on X that a strong justice system will enable Colombia to emerge from violence. He added in another message that Rubio was interfering with Colombias sovereignty. A decision against the ex-president could generate some kind of reprisal by the government of the United States, Banco de Bogota said in a note on Monday, referring to a proposal by US Republican lawmaker Mario Diaz-Balart to cut non-military aid to Colombia next year, partly on concerns of due process violations in the Uribe case. Uribe, who was placed under house arrest for two months in 2020, is head of the powerful Democratic Centre party and was a senator for years both before and after his presidency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has repeatedly emphasised that he extradited paramilitary leaders to the US. Colombias truth commission says paramilitary groups, which demobilised under deals with Uribes government, killed more than 205,000 people, nearly half of the 450,000 deaths recorded during the ongoing civil conflict. In recent decades, right-wing paramilitary groups across Latin America backed by the US along with the armed forces of allied governments, have been responsible not only for killings, but also for forced disappearances, sexual violence, mass displacement, and other grave human rights abuses. By Luis Jaime Acosta BOGOTA (Reuters) -A Colombian judge on Monday convicted former President Alvaro Uribe of abuse of process and bribery of a public official in a long-running witness tampering case, making him the country's first ex-president to ever be found guilty at trial. Judge Sandra Liliana Heredia read her decision aloud to the court over the course of some ten hours. She found the right-wing politician not guilty of a separate bribery charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ruling, which Uribe's legal team said he will appeal, is the latest decision in a hugely politicized case that has run for about 13 years. The decision comes less than a year before Colombia's 2026 presidential election, in which several of Uribes allies and proteges are competing for the country's top office. Uribe, 73, and his supporters say the process is a persecution and that he is innocent. His detractors have celebrated it as the deserved downfall for a man who has been repeatedly accused of close relationships with violent right-wing paramilitaries, but never convicted of any crime. Each charge carries a jail sentence of between six and 12 years. Heredia is expected to sentence Uribe on Friday, as well as decide if he will remain free on appeal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Justice does not kneel before power," Heredia told the court on Monday morning as she opened her remarks. "It is at the service of the Colombian people." "We want to say to Colombia that justice has arrived," she said, adding that her full decision is some 1,000 pages long. Uribe and one of his lawyers, Jaime Granados, joined the hearing via video link, while another lawyer, Jaime Lombana, appeared in person. "This is not the end of this process, the appeal is next and we are going to demonstrate that this decision, which we respect, is wrong," lawyer Juan Felipe Amaya, part of Uribe's legal team, told journalists at the court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Granados told the hearing that the presumption of Uribe's innocence should be maintained and asked for him to remain free during the remainder of the process. Detractors and supporters of the former president gathered outside the court, with some Uribe backers sporting masks of his face. Even if the conviction is eventually upheld, Uribe may be allowed to serve his final sentence on house arrest because of his age. PARAMILITARY PLOT Uribe, who was president from 2002 to 2010 and oversaw a military offensive against leftist guerrilla groups, was investigated along with several allies over allegations of witness tampering carried out in an attempt to discredit accusations he had ties to paramilitaries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judges have twice rejected requests by prosecutors to shelve the case, which stems from Uribe's allegation in 2012 that leftist Senator Ivan Cepeda had orchestrated a plot to tie him to paramilitaries. The Supreme Court said in 2018 that Cepeda had collected information from former fighters as part of his work and had not paid or pressured former paramilitaries. Instead, the court said it was Uribe and his allies who pressured witnesses. Cepeda attended the Monday hearing in person with his counsel. Uribe's trial triggered sharp criticism from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio ahead of the judge's decision. Uribe had a close relationship with the U.S. during his two terms as president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Uribe's only crime has been to tirelessly fight and defend his homeland. The weaponization of Colombia's judicial branch by radical judges has now set a worrisome precedent," Rubio said on X. "A decision against the ex-president could generate some kind of reprisal by the government of the United States," Banco de Bogota said in a note on Monday, referring to a proposal by U.S. Republican lawmaker Mario Diaz-Balart to cut non-military aid to Colombia next year, partly on concerns of due process violations in the Uribe case. Uribe, who was placed under house arrest for two months in 2020, is head of the powerful Democratic Center party and was a senator for years both before and after his presidency. He has repeatedly emphasized that he extradited paramilitary leaders to the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Colombia's truth commission says paramilitary groups, which demobilized under deals with Uribe's government, killed more than 205,000 people, nearly half of the 450,000 deaths recorded during the ongoing civil conflict. Paramilitaries, along with guerrilla groups and members of the armed forces, also committed forced disappearances, sexual violence, displacement and other crimes. Uribe joins a list of Latin American leaders who have been convicted and sometimes jailed, including Peru's Alberto Fujimori, Brazil's Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Ecuador's Rafael Correa, Argentina's Cristina Fernandez and Panama's Ricardo Martinelli. (Reporting by Luis Jaime Acosta, Carlos Vargas, Nelson Bocanegra and Julia Symmes Cobb; Editing by Leslie Adler and Himani Sarkar) Editor's note: This story has been updated to include new information from Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Poland's Internal Security Agency (ABW) has accused a 27-year-old Colombian national of carrying out two arson attacks in Polish cities on behalf of Russian intelligence, spokesperson Jacek Dobrzynski said during a press conference on July 29, Polish media outlet RMF24 reported. The man is suspected of setting fire to construction warehouses in Warsaw on May 23 and in Radom, a city some 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of the capital, on May 30. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Dobrzynski, after the sabotage operations in Poland, the man traveled to the Czech Republic in June. While there, he was trying to torch a Prague bus depot and was thought to be planning another attack when local authorities detained him. "We have 32 people detained and suspected of cooperating with Russian services, who ordered these people either acts of diversion or beating," Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on July 29 during a government meeting, according to Polish media outlet Onet. Tusk stressed the suspicions are "justified." The group of detainees reportedly includes Poles, Russians, Ukrainians, Belarusians, and Colombians, with more arrests possible. The news comes amid mounting warnings by Western officials of Russia's escalating hybrid operations and sabotage across Europe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the ABW, the suspect received detailed instructions from a handler linked to Russian intelligence, including how to construct Molotov cocktails. The man has been charged with terrorism and faces a life sentence. "These actions were ordered, controlled, and financed by an individual linked to the Russian intelligence services," Dobrzynski said. "He (the suspect) was taught how to prepare incendiary materials, how to document these attacks, and carried them out under instruction." The man has reportedly admitted partial guilt, and his testimony is under verification. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ABW officers say Russia has been actively recruiting Latin Americans with military experience to conduct sabotage operations across Europe. Recruits are contacted primarily via the Telegram messenger app and tasked with setting fires, conducting reconnaissance, and documenting damage. Tusk previously said that Russia was also behind the May 2024 arson attack on Warsaw's Marywilska shopping center, which destroyed around 1,400 stores. In Lithuania, authorities believe Russia recruited two Ukrainian citizens, including a minor, to carry out a May 9, 2024, arson attack on an IKEA warehouse in Vilnius. Western intelligence services have warned of escalating Russian sabotage, cyberattacks, and espionage operations across Europe, with nearly 100 suspected incidents in 2024 alone, according to Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moscow has denied involvement or refused to comment on the allegations. Read also: It hits their psyche hard Ukraines drones throw Russias airports further into chaos Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) Columbus Mayor Skip Henderson gave a brief update Tuesday on the search to replace fired City Manager Isaiah Hugley. Henderson told the council that the consulting firm helping with the hire would be seeking their input in the next week. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Isaiah Hugley launches mayoral bid, eyes lawsuit against Columbus Council He said the Mercer Group will be calling each of the 10 councilors. He also asked for each councilor to submit two names to fill out a survey for the consultant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Columbus has been without a city manager since May 27. Thats when the council unexpectedly voted 7-3 to fire Isaiah Hugley, who had been in the job for two decades. But then, too, I think its important enough to hire this, the council has an active role in the process. And we value their opinions. We want to find out what theyre looking for in a new manager, Henderson said. RELATED: Former Columbus City Manager Isaiah Hugley files paperwork to run for mayor Henderson advertising for the position will begin in about three weeks. The mayor did not give a timetable for having a new city manager in place. Henderson has to make the recommendation and the council has to approve it. RELATED: Columbus Mayor reacts to the firing of city manager Isaiah Hugley Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. UKs casual dining restaurant operator Tasty has confirmed advanced discussions with PizzaExpress former CEO David Page and Fulham Shore former finance director Nicholas Wong regarding potential board appointments, and also strategic funding opportunities, which may include an equity placing. The company is considering various funding options to invest in future strategic opportunities. This follows reports from Sky News that Page is looking to raise nearly 10m ($13.4m) from institutional investors. If successful, this move could lead to changes in Tasty's leadership structure. According to sources, the potential equity raise could result in Page becoming Tasty executive chairman. The company, which is the owner of the Wildwood and dim t dining brands, is also expected to undergo a rebranding to Bow Street Group on the London Stock Exchange, the news channel added. The deal would involve Tasty acquiring Page as well as his associates cash shell. Nicholas Wong, given his prior experience working with Page at previous establishments, is set to assume the role of finance chief at Bow Street Group, if the proposal becomes successful. The current and proposed members of the board are expected to contribute over 1m to the share placing. Page's plans also include a review of Tasty's current restaurant portfolio. The fundraising efforts are being managed by investment banking firms Allenby Capital and Cavendish. Tasty plans to make further announcements as developments unfold. In 2023, Japan's Toridoll Holdings acquired Page's previous venture, Fulham Shore, which included the Franco Manca pizza chain, in a deal valued at 93m. Toridoll made the offer to acquire Fulham Shore, in April 2023. "Tasty discuss board appointment and funding with David Page" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) The Columbus Police Department is seeking the publics help in a search for a missing teen. Authorities are searching for 14-year-old Darnaisia Thompson, who is described as a Black female, standing 5 foot 7 inches tall, weighs 110 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen in the 3400 block of 8th Avenue on July 23, according to Columbus PD. Anyone with additional information on Thompsons whereabouts is asked to dial 911 or contact the CPD Special Victims Unit at 706-225-3449, or the lead investigator, Cpl. Eric Schwind 706-225-4339. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. MAGA has a problem, in the form of Donald Trump. Put simply: MAGA wants to define what MAGA (or America first) means, and Donald Trump wants it to mean whatever he says at any given moment. I should offer a little definitional clarity and political nuance. Make America Great Again means different things to different people. The Trump coalition is not monolithic, it contains factions that do not necessarily consider themselves to be MAGA. But as shorthand, MAGA is an identifiably distinct bloc on the right, and its the dominant faction in the broader GOP coalition. Its internal diversity notwithstanding, it still has a worldview or ideology. And the MAGA faithful are increasingly frustrated by the fact that Trump doesnt always share, or prioritize, that ideology. They believed that if you could just let Trump be Trump he would follow their conception of MAGA. In Ronald Reagans first term, many movement conservatives were frustrated by what they perceived as the Gippers drift toward centrism. They blamed moderates in the administration. Let Reagan be Reagan became a rallying cry on the right. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Column: Yes, Mr. President, they're still talking about Jeffrey Epstein Its a piece of conventional wisdom on the new American right that Donald Trump struggled in his first term because he hired the wrong people old-think Bush Republicans, figures like Rex Tillerson and Steven Mnuchin, who didnt have a populist bone in their bodies, the news website Semafors Ben Smith offers in an astute analysis . As a result, Smith continues, Trumps most passionate supporters werent going to make that mistake again. They created initiatives like American Moment, Project 2025, and others aimed at grooming and credentialing a cadre of MAGA appointees. When Trump took office, the America Firsters moved en masse into the Department of Defense. Big Tech avengers seized the antitrust apparatus. Conspiracy-minded podcasters took over the FBI. And yet just as Trump often ignored his conventional advisers in the first term, hes stunned loyalists by sweeping aside this carefully assembled apparat in 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said as much to the Atlantic magazine last month: I think Im the one that decides what America first means. Read more: Calmes: Trump finds a new way to taint the office of the presidency It turns out that personnel isnt policy, the executive director of the American Conservative, Curt Mills, glumly told Smith. The idea that personnel is policy is another Reagan-era mantra; put Reaganites in important positions and youll get Reaganite policies. Putting Trumpists in powerful positions doesnt yield the same results. Immigration hawks have been panicking over the presidents suggestion that farm and hotel workers should be excluded from his deportation schemes. As Trump told Fox News , Im on both sides of the thing. Foreign policy restrainers were beclowned by his support of Israels strikes on Iran and his apparent about-face on helping Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On China, Trumps been a hawk as promised, except when he hasnt, allowing NVIDIA to sell chips to China, and ignoring the law by refusing to sell or shutter TikTok. Then theres the Jeffrey Epstein fiasco, which has bedeviled Trump for weeks. Its intensity and durability can best be explained by the fact that it divides those who define Trumpism as loyalty to Trump and those who believe that loyalty would be, must be rewarded by a cleansing of corrupt globalist elite or something. Read more: Abcarian: Oh please, the right is reviving a tired trope about women In short, there is no Trumpism that is an analogue to Reaganism. Reaganism is a philosophical approach. What defines Trumps reign is better understood as a psychological phenomenon both as an explanation of his behavior and of his fans cultish and performative loyalty. To the extent Trump has a philosophy it is to follow his instincts, which are most powerfully informed first by his own ego but also the dramaturgy of professional wrestling , reality TV and Norman Vincent Peales prosperity gospel . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes said many times that he considers unpredictability a virtue in itself, which by definition means he is going to disappoint anyone who expects philosophical coherence. When Trump was a bull in a China shop, the people most excited by the sound of breaking vases and dishware assumed there was a broader method to the madness. But now the same people are learning that Trump wont be saddled by his fans any more than he is by norms. This was always going to be the case (as I noted in 2017 ), but what adds to MAGAs frustration is that anyone can see and copy the bull-handling techniques that are most likely to work. Compliment him, call him daddy , celebrate his genius and expertise, and you too can manipulate him with at least moderate success. Perhaps most significant, its becoming clear that a movement defined by loyalty to a mercurial personality is bound to split apart once that personality leaves the stage if not sooner. X: @JonahDispatch If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. As the Trump Administration continues its reckless immigration crackdown in Tennessee and elsewhere, commercial flight crews are being forced into roles of facilitation. Airlines are for consumers and cargo, not immigration and customs enforcement. Therefore, the four major U.S. carriers, each operating in Nashville, should disallow all deportation-related bookings. When I entered the airline industry as a flight attendant, and later became an airline union official, my ambition was to help bring folks together, to reunite family and friends, to make the world a more connected place not to oversee vehicles of division. On a recent flight I worked, there were seven "immigration deportees onboard, erroneously referred to as prisoners by airport personnel all women and children. These folks were treated like cargo, not people, much less passengers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After learning their true classification, I connected with a woman in the group. She was kind and seemed grateful for the interaction. As they deplaned, she attempted to hand me a pulsera de la amistad a friendship bracelet made of multicolored threads. When she extended her hand, the ICE officer escorting them loudly ordered her to stop. She quickly pulled back and as the light in her eyes dimmed, I thanked her anyway for her generosity. Upon my asking, the officer confirmed they were never convicted of a crime. Commercial airlines shouldn't be involved in federal deportations Flight crews and the flying public should not be unwilling or unwitting participants in this callous process. This is especially true given that U.S. airlines have a wonderfully diverse workforce, hiring green card and certain visa holders, particularly language speakers for international routes. It all adds a deeper emotional layer for crew who see themselves in those being removed. Kathy Verbeck, a Sarasota resident, holds a sign at a May 31 protest of Avelo Airlines' contract with Department of Homeland Securitys Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport. Making matters more perilous, President Trump signed executive orders suspending both the asylum and refugee resettlement programs at the southern border. And the recent Supreme Court decision allowing the administration to deport migrants to places other than their homeland, even to war-torn countries and regardless of credible fears of torture and abuse, compound humanitarian concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People will die due to these decisions. The real possibility that the folks being transported on commercial flights could be at-risk of death upon entry to their country of origin or elsewhere by gangs, domestic abusers, corrupt officials or environmental and economic ruin is something airline crew shouldnt be involved in facilitating. And during perhaps the most frightening time in their lives, migrants shouldnt be paraded in front of other passengers traveling for fun, family or business. Its cruel and degrading for them to be ushered through airports and pushed past first class cabins, sometimes in handcuffs and shackles. Its also unfair to other travelers to be placed in this morally compromising position. Though Trump ran on deporting "violent criminals", the Cato Institute found 65% of people taken by ICE had no convictions and 93% had no violent convictions. If the administration was made to rely solely on government planes and charters for deportation, and did not have access to the approximately 45,000 commercial flights operating daily in the US, perhaps they would be forced to prioritize violent offenders instead of good-hearted, hard working folks seeking opportunity. But by allowing usage of their fleets, U.S. airlines are accomplices in this increasingly lawless mass deportation effort. With slogans like Let Good Take Flight" (American Airlines), Good Leads the Way (United Airlines) and Good Goes Around (Delta Airlines), airlines have a duty to actually do good to uphold those mottos in the face of potential harm to passengers of all backgrounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Take action to stop deportations at commercial US airlines by signing the petition here. Alex Roberts Alex Roberts is an aviation worker and a national government affairs representative for a major airline union, representing nearly 30,000 workers across the country. Find him on BlueSky. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Commercial airlines should not be a tool for ICE | Opinion GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Despite the joy of welcoming a baby, its not uncommon for new mothers to struggle with mental health. Jean Holthaus, the outpatient network regional director at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services near Grand Rapids, said about 1 in 5 mothers and 10% of their partners experience perinatal mood or anxiety disorders sometime between conception and a year after delivery. So its a really pretty significant problem and its one of those things that has a lot of stigma associated with it, Holthaus said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How to support loved ones after a miscarriage She said new parents who are struggling with their mental health may feel guilty because they feel like they should be happy. Theyre like, This is supposed to be the best part of my life, and its not, she said. If youre already experiencing some of that (anxiety), then youve got that pressure of like, I should be feeling, I should be doing, it makes it worse. She said while caring for a baby can be stressful, a disorder is marked by symptoms that extend beyond whats normal. Pine Rests Mother and Baby Program aims to help parents manage those symptoms. It includes day treatment, outpatient therapy (including via telehealth) and medication intervention, if appropriate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holthaus said part of Pine Rests work includes leveraging primary care offices to screen for the symptoms so experts can offer support. She said you can support the new parents in your life by looking for ways to help them not just the baby and reminding them that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. A 16-year-old boy from East St. Louis was shot and killed over the weekend in Madison, Illinois. As the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis searches for a suspect, community leaders and survivors of gun violence on both sides of the Mississippi River are renewing urgent calls to steer young people away from a path of violence. The only people that can change the streets are the ones that messed it up, Darren Seals, founder of the Sankofa Unity Center, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His words reflect a growing frustration and determination among grassroots leaders. Seals unity center serves as a place of hope in Walnut Park, especially for those stuck in the cycle he once escaped. After serving time in prison and surviving 13 gunshot wounds, Seals now mentors at-risk youth. Just come to me and talk to me. Ill show you a way out, he said. If I can load up a gun, I can use a jackhammer and make money off of it. 1 dead, 1 critically injured after altercation at north STL Wendys The deadly shooting happened just after 1 p.m. Saturday near Washington Avenue and Wayne Lanter Avenue in Madison, Illinois. Police responded to reports of gunfire and found the teens body in the middle of the street. The Major Case Squad is leading the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For people like me, this is personal, said Precious Jones, the founder of Breaking Generational Poverty, whose own son was murdered at the age of 20. What went through my mind is just another life prematurely lost. The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis is also expanding its outreach efforts in the Metro East. Our young people are becoming more and more prone to being on either side of the barrel, James Clark, the vice president of public Safety and executive director of the Neighborhood Alliance for the Urban League, said. Weve got to get innovative and direct resources to them and their families. Close Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Clark emphasized the importance of collaboration with organizations already doing the work. They are looking to add more people to their team to connect with people in the communities they serve. We are not looking to reinvent the wheel in East St. Louis, Clark said. We want to strengthen those on the ground who are already making a difference. While detectives work to solve the crime, these groups are rallying behind a deeper mission and that this teenagers life and death are not in vain. Anyone with information about Saturdays homicide is encouraged to contact the Major Case Squad Command Post at 618-876-7182 or leave an anonymous tip through CrimeStoppers by calling 1-866-371-TIPS (8477). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Solar panels in Damariscotta, Maine. (Photo by Evan Houk/ Maine Morning Star) Pennsylvania is in a race against time: can we bring enough new energy onto the grid to meet our regions growing power demand (primarily fueled by new data centers, both speculative and real) in time to avoid dramatic spikes in the cost of energy paralleling the destabilization of our energy grid? While solar power has emerged as the cheapest new electricity source in history, thousands of new energy projects are trapped, waiting for approval to come online as part of grid manager PJMs bottlenecked interconnection process. This costly administrative limbo can delay construction for over five years or even cause developers to abandon projects entirely after significant investment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This delay in bringing new energy online is already making it more expensive for Pennsylvanians to keep the lights on, and it could get much worse: a new report by Evergreen Collaborative and Synapse Economics finds that Mismanagement by PJM is set to spike electric bills by almost 60 percent over the next 10 to 15 years. Unless something changes, the results for Pennsylvania families and businesses will be catastrophic. And while PJM has initiated limited reforms, their full impacts remain unclear. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The problem is immense, but theres also a clear workaround: Local energy generation like community solar can bypass this bottleneck while democratizing our energy transition and providing concrete benefits to Pennsylvanians. Community solar lets ratepayers subscribe to a local solar array and receive guaranteed energy bill savings. Its a shovel-ready, distributed approach to bringing new energy online. If you havent heard of community solar, dont feel bad: its probably because Pennsylvania is one of a rapidly dwindling number of states that has yet to authorize it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community solar projects are generally much larger than a residential solar array, but small enough to connect to the local energy distribution system, letting them sidestep the PJM interconnection queue that so often traps large-scale projects. By bringing more energy online quickly, community solar can ease the intensity of our energy crisis. Community solar projects also deliver immediate benefits to local communities: They allow renters, apartment dwellers, and homeowners with unsuitable roofs to access affordable, locally generated energy They create jobs and tax revenue in local communities They strengthen grid resilience by bringing energy generation closer to home They provide savings on electricity bills, especially critical for low-income families struggling with rising rates Neighboring states like New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware and New York have already opened the door to community solar, but Pennsylvania has failed to act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX This could change very soon: a bill to authorize Community Energy (which includes community solar) recently passed through the PA House, and is now awaiting action in the Senate. This legislation would guarantee that everyone who subscribes to community solar would see savings on their energy bills, while expanding renewable energy access to communities that have historically been excluded (such as renters and low-income communities). It is supported by diverse stakeholders ranging from The Pennsylvania Land and Liberty Coalition to Our Solar PA, a statewide coalition of dozens of groups working for a community-centric renewable energy future. We cant afford to wait for the problems with our regional energy system to solve themselves, or for PJM to reform in response to pressure from the Governors office, State Public Utility Commissions, and ratepayers advocates. Community solar gives us a way to make progress now. It puts regular peoplenot just utilities and large corporationsat the center of our energy transition. This isnt just a way to sidestep the interconnection backlogits an inclusive approach to building our energy future together.Its past time to authorize community energy projects across the state, and to clear the path for energy solutions that work for our communities. Alice Lu, Policy Analyst, Clean Air Council Alice Lu is the Policy Analyst at Clean Air Council. With a background in public health, she advocates for energy and environmental policies that promote equity and protect human health and the environment. She resides in Philadelphia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justin Mason, Field Director, Pennsylvania Land & Liberty Coalition Justin Mason serves as the Director of Programs & Operations for the Conservative Energy Network Pennsylvania and Field Director for the Pennsylvania Land & Liberty Coalition. Born and raised in Erie, Pennsylvania he is an energy advocate that takes pride in the Keystone states energy legacy. Elowyn Corby is the Mid- Atlantic Regional Director at Vote Solar Action Fund, where she advocates for inclusive solar policies and helps to amplify community voices and priorities in the conversations that shape our energy system. She lives in Philadelphia. Its been a little over a week since the Tesla Diner opened in Hollywood, but the futuristic-style restaurant and supercharger station has already been met with complaints, protests and now a possible lawsuit. KTLAs Annie Rose Ramos was outside the diner Tuesday morning talking to customers who are happy to have a place to recharge their Teslas, but admit the newfound convenience is creating gridlock in the area. I was excited because I could charge my car, but yeah, its been insane the traffics been insane, said Tyrone Brown, who lives nearby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Others have even referred to lines of cars on Santa Monica Boulevard and the surrounding streets as a safety hazard. On Monday, TMZ reported that a covering on the rooftop patio area came loose and hit a woman in the head. The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a call of a 21-year-old woman complaining of injuries. The patient declined transport to a local hospital, telling responders she would go on her own. The family plans to file a lawsuit against Tesla over the incident, according to TMZ. And over the weekend, demonstrators gathered outside the location for two nights to protest Tesla CEO Elon Musks involvement in the Trump administration. Some of the demonstrators said that the community isnt supportive of Musk. Diners wait to enter the Tesla Diner, an American diner and a Tesla Supercharging station in the Hollywood section of Los Angeles on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel) A movie screen from Teslas Diner & Drive-In is seen next to an apartment building in Hollywood on July 22, 2025. (KTLA) Meanwhile, business appears to be booming at the diner, with customers lining up for chargers and breakfast again on Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some customers told Annie Rose that they were especially looking forward to ordering the smash burgers and the biscuits and gravy. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. A driver who was hospitalized after a rollover crash on the Massachusetts Turnpike in Framingham on Monday, causing a ramp to close off to cars, has died, Massachusetts State Police told MassLive on Tuesday. The driver was identified as Devin Leary, 58, of Newington, Connecticut, State Police said. Leary was initially hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. At 7:56 a.m. on Monday, MassDOT alerted commuters that the Route 30 ramp to the eastbound side of Interstate 90 was closed due to the crash, according to a post on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All lanes reopened at 10:20 a.m. on Monday, John Goggin, MassDOT Communications Analyst, told MassLive on Tuesday. More News Read the original article on MassLive. WATERBURY, Conn. (WTNH) Lawmakers held a virtual meeting Tuesday with leaders of the Department of Children and Families. They spoke about what happened in the case of a 32-year-old man who was kept captive in a Waterbury house for 20 years. DCF to meet with Children Committee for update on alleged Waterbury captivity case The meeting was done over a private Zoom call. Lawmakers appear to be satisfied that DCF has improved its procedures in the last 20 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the case of a man now known only as S. He says he was allegedly imprisoned in his Waterbury home for more than 20 years by his father and stepmother. He last went to school when he was 11. When he was young, DCF admitted there were 6 reports about him. They say each one was investigated with announced and unannounced home visits, and they say there was not enough evidence to remove the child from the home. Man allegedly held captive by stepmother in Waterbury releases first public statement Members of the legislatures childrens committee pressed them about how to keep this from happening in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Back in February, that now 32-year-old started a fire in his Waterbury house and escaped from captivity. We have asked them to give us statutory information as to what we can do to make things better for investigations in the future, Sen. Ceci Maher said. DCF says the problem has already been fixed, and that their practices and standards have changed and improved in the last two decades. Something like this would not happen again, they say. The lawmakers say this meeting was a good first step, but there is still much more to do. Meanwhile, the criminal case against Ss stepmother continues through the court system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. A Connecticut man is dead and a driver was hurt after a crash on Interstate 93 on Monday night, state police said Tuesday. Robert Macdonald, 78, of Baltic, Connecticut, who was a passenger in a red 2017 Ram 1500 pickup truck, died as a result of the crash, state police said. The driver of the truck, Laura Cassidy, 25, of Norwich, Connecticut, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken by ambulance to a local hospital, state police said. Her condition was not known Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 7 p.m. Monday, troopers responded to a single vehicle crash on I-93 northbound, south of Exit 42, state police said. A preliminary investigation found that Cassidy was driving the pickup truck northbound on I-93 when, for reasons that remain under investigation, she failed to negotiate a curve south of Exit 42 and lost control of the vehicle. The truck struck the guard rail near mile marker 124.4, left the roadway, and rolled down the embankment, where it came to a final rest adjacent to Industrial Park Road, state police said. Industrial Park Road and I-93 northbound between exits 41 and 42 remained closed for the duration of the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Troopers were assisted on the scene by members of the Littleton Police, Littleton Fire and Rescue, and the New Hampshire Department of Transportation. All aspects of the crash remain under investigation. Anyone with information that may help investigators is asked to contact Trooper Connor Coppin at 603-451-9554 or at Connor.M.Coppin@dos.nh.gov. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Donald Trumps tariffs have led to corporate slowdown in Ireland - Andrew Harnik/Getty Irelands economy has shrunk for the first time in almost two years after Donald Trumps tariff blitz sparked a sharp drop in corporate activity. New trade figures show that Irish gross domestic product (GDP) shrank 1pc in the three months to June 30. This was a marked slowdown from the previous quarter between January and March, when growth hit 7.4pc as companies accelerated exports to get ahead of the US presidents liberation day tariffs announcement on April 2. After pausing his initial wave of tariffs, Mr Trump on Monday agreed a deal with Brussels that will slap a 15pc tax on EU exports to the US, threatening to deepen Irelands economic slowdown further. Simon Harris, Irelands deputy prime minister, acknowledged that the 15pc tariff was regrettable, saying the government would have to assess its implications. Almost one third of Irish exports are shipped to the US, accounting for 12pc of GDP. Pharmaceuticals, one of the most powerful engines of the Irish economy, account for more than 60pc of this, last year totalling 44bn (39bn). The deals impact on the sector remains unclear. Mr Harris said the Irish governments understanding was that European drug makers would face a tariff of no more than 15pc, even if Mr Trump follows through on his threat of introducing higher worldwide pharma tariffs. The EU will continue to work with the US to underline the closely integrated nature of the EU and US pharmaceutical sector, he said. Mr Harris said the EU had also secured a zero for zero tariff rate for the aviation industry and some agricultural products and chemicals. But Irish business groups branded the US-EU trade deal a capitulation. Its quite tragic that we are in this situation, Danny McCoy, the chief executive of the Irish Business and Employers Confederation (Ibec), told Irish television. If Europe had equal strength, it could have confronted the United States. US businesses are now favoured coming into Europe without tariffs, and our European businesses are facing 15pc. Micheal Martin, the Taoiseach, sought to defend the deal, saying it had ensured that businesses had clarity and certainty, and would protect Irish jobs. Tanaiste Simon Harris (left) and Taoiseach Micheal Martin speaking with the media last week in Dublin - Niall Carson/PA But former taoiseach and Brexit critic Leo Varadkar attacked the agreement, and questioned whether Mr Trump would stick with it. This will mean fewer EU exports to the US and higher prices for Americans, he said on social media. The only thing its better than is no deal at all and thats only if it sticks. Mr McCoy agreed with Mr Martin that businesses at least now knew where they stood. In Alaskas North Slope region the northernmost county in the US, roughly the same size as the United Kingdom one small public radio station, KBRW, keeps eight Inupiat villages connected and serves about 10,000 people. Now, it may not survive. Last Thursday, President Trump signed into law $9 billion in DOGE cuts, including $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), a key funder of NPR and PBS stations nationwide. The president and his allies have long aimed to defund public media, alleging widespread bias in its broadcasts. KBRW is one of 36 tribally licensed public radio stations and four TV stations across the US that rely on CPB funding to stay on the air. Without that money, they could go dark, cutting off Indigenous communities from local news, safety alerts and cultural programming, Loris Taylor, president and CEO of Native Public Media, told CNN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the long term, we risk erasing decades of investment in native media infrastructure, Taylor said. Once these stations go dark, they may never return. That would be a catastrophic loss to tribal sovereignty, self-representation and democracy. Alaska has 15 tribally licensed stations, far more than South Dakota and New Mexico, the next closest states with four each. The rest are scattered across the West and Midwest, serving rural tribal communities where broadband and phone access remain limited or nonexistent, according to the American Indian Policy Institute at Arizona State University. KBRW, based in Utqiagvik, gets about 40% of its funding from CPB. The stations manager, Jeff Seifert, told CNN that they have just one part-time and four full-time employees. Now, they imminently face layoffs, cuts to local programs and dropping NPR their most costly content meaning no national news. Its really up in the air as to how long we can survive, Seifert said. But its just not sustainable. Its just going to run out of gas eventually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 500 miles south in Bethel, KYUK another tribally licensed public station serves more than 50 federally recognized tribes and at least 25,000 listeners across the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. It relies on CPB for 70% of its annual funding. KYUK broadcasts local newscasts in English and Yupik, the primary language of the villages it serves, three times a day. It also hosts call-in shows where elders and community members talk about whats happening in the area. Were not connected to a road system, said Kristen Hall, KYUKs general manager. So I often say, what connects us is our airwaves. In the winter, the frozen rivers become highways connecting these villages. But travel can be risky when the ice starts to form or melt. To help keep people safe, KYUK works with a search-and-rescue organization on call-in shows, where listeners report hazardous areas, such as open water or weak ice. The North Slope Borough of Alaska is so remote that the villages are not connected by roads. What connects us is our airwaves," said the manager of one public radio station in danger of shutting down. - Lance King/Getty Images Both KBRW and KYUK run on thin margins with limited staff. Local fundraising cant replace lost federal funds, Hall said, so if additional funding isnt found by the fall, KYUK will be forced to cut its local staff. The local programming would cease, including its call-in shows, local weather reports and local news. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These cuts are further distancing this community from the rest of America, Hall said. The people in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta are Americans, too. They deserve the same access to news and information as anyone else. Following the House vote, CPB released a statement warning that cuts could jeopardize emergency alerts that are a lifeline for many Americans. The path to a better, more trusted public media is only achievable with continued federal support and constructive reforms, the statement said. Alaska Native communities rely on a mix of cash income and subsistence living hunting, fishing and gathering, according to the US Department of the Interior. Subsistence preserves culture and helps offset high costs in remote areas where food must be flown in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With limited cash flow, these regions often lack wealthy donors or sponsors, so tribal radio stations rely heavily on federal funding. Statewide, 45% of Alaskas revenue came from federal funds in 2023, according to Pew Charitable Trusts analysis of the latest available Census data. Preserving culture on the airwaves In both regions, there are no roads connecting villages; residents travel by plane. Seifert said there are no local newspapers or TV stations, and many, especially the elders, lack internet access. KBRW broadcasts in both English and Inupiaq, the traditional language of the regions Indigenous people. The local elderly population speaks primarily Inupiaq, and Seifert said the station helps keep the language and culture alive while delivering crucial public safety updates, weather alerts and community news. We are in areas that are very, very remote, and a lot of the information you can get in the big cities just isnt there for us, Seifert said. And I dont think Congress understands, because they dont live here, how important these services are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every day at 6 pm, KBRW airs Story Time, featuring taped cultural stories from the elders, some more than 70 years old. Its among the stations most popular shows. Geoffrey Carroll, 74, is a retired wildlife biologist who has relied on KBRW since moving to Utqiagvik in 1974. Although originally from Wyoming, his wife and children are Inupiat. He said the station has been central to their home life in these remote parts of Alaska. It would just be such a hole in our lives if we didnt have the radio station. I listen to the radio stations every day. Several hours every day, Carroll told CNN. His children grew up hearing Inupiaq on the radio and learning about their heritage, including through the Story Time show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They didnt have much choice, he said. The radio was on all the time it was ever-present in our house. KYUK similarly produces a storytelling show with local elders sharing their oral histories and legends. Samantha Watson and Charlie Charlie broadcast live for KYUK, a public radio station that airs hourly news updates in both English and Yup'ik, the primary language of many villages in the North Slope. - MaryCait Dolan/KYUK Hall said KYUK maintains the worlds oldest Yupik and Cupik audiovisual collection and has spent years digitizing it for easier access, especially for younger generations. As part of this effort, they launched a website featuring a series of elder interviews with Yupik transcripts and English translations a unique language preservation tool. Sharing that language and culture for people is important, and thats really at risk right now, Hall said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local Alaska stations received $12 million in CPB funding last year 0.00018% of total federal spending. Still, Alaska Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski, who voted against the cuts, called public broadcasting an invaluable resource that saves lives in Alaska. No way to send out emergency alerts Seifert and Hall say lawmakers underestimate the importance of local public radio for rural Alaskans not just for their culture, but for their survival. One common misconception, Hall said, is that emergency alerts will still reach everyone as long as Congress continues to fund the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA doesnt operate radio stations, she said. If we go dark, theres no receiver to get those signals to the public. Its a partnership they send the alerts, but local stations like ours are the ones that get them out to people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump White House and FEMA did not respond to requests for comment. Earlier this month, a 7.3-magnitude earthquake in the Gulf of Alaska triggered tsunami warnings. The local public stations broadcast safety instructions in real-time. This past spring, the importance of the station became clear when a massive slab of sea ice sliced through an undersea fiber-optic cable, cutting off internet to communities across the North Slope region. Suddenly, there was no 911, no phone lines and no cell service. KBRW was the only line of communication left. The radio was it, Seifert said. We were the only source of information, the only connection. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The 2.4-million acre Flathead National Forest in Montana is home to lynx, grizzly bear, and bull trout, with numerous lakes, streams, and rivers (Photo by the U.S. Forest Service via Flickr). Four conservation groups have filed a lawsuit in federal court accusing the United States Forest Service and in particular, Flathead National Forest, of ignoring its own scientists to push ahead on a logging project that would likely imperil grizzly bears, and cut old-growth forests. The lawsuit also claims federal forest officials have intentionally created two adjacent logging projects that would have likely violated federal laws if combined, and instead split them up into two smaller projects to avoid scrutiny. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United States Forest Service told the Daily Montanan it does not comment on pending litigation. The quartet of groups Native Ecosystems Council, Council on Wildlife and Fish, Alliance for the Wild Rockies, and the Yellowstone to Uintas Connection filed the complaint on Monday in Missoula. The lawsuit claims that the Cyclone Bill Logging Project, which is approximately 13 miles west of Whitefish, will cut and burn on more than 12,000 acres, which includes habitat of the Canada lynx and grizzly bears, both of which are protected by the Endangered Species Act. The groups said that the forest services decision, finding that the project posed no significant impact, ignored the best available science as well as the opinions of biologists working for the federal government via the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, the lawsuit alleges the project would reduce grizzly habitat temporarily, add roads that would permanently impact them, and the adjacent logging project, the Round Star Project, would permanently eliminate grizzly bear habitat by 774 acres. The conservation groups point out that the Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem, which is designated as a grizzly bear recovery zone is just 35 miles away from the project, and the forest area is essential for bears as they begin to repopulate, and necessary for more diverse genetics. Groups contend that the Cyclone Bill Project area is an essential linkage corridor for female bears. The road-less traveled The lawsuit also centers on the number of new and permanent roads that would be built by the logging projects. Multiple lawsuits have been successfully waged against the Forest Service because it expands the number of permanent and temporary roads in national forest land. Scientific studies continue to point to roads as being one of the largest deterrent for grizzly bears and habitat. According to the lawsuit and the Forest Services own documentation, the project would add 11.4 miles of new roads and 2.5 miles of temporary roads. The conservation groups note that this would push the road density in the area above the scientific threshold for grizzly bear tolerance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The federal governments own scientists agree the area is already being disturbed, and the logging project will likely further disrupt grizzly bear habitat. Fish and Wildlife Service opines that grizzly bears using the action area may already be experiencing disturbance effects in some areas as a result of construction and administrative use of closed roads, it said. The project may result in additional under-use of suitable habitat by individual female grizzly bears, potentially disrupting normal breeding (or more specifically, cub rearing) or feeding patterns in the short-term. The suit lists multiple scientific studies which point out repeatedly that grizzly bears, especially females, learn to avoid areas where there are motorized vehicles. Scientists also point out that the cumulative effects of the logging project will like reduce the natural food sources and (increase) grizzly bear mortality risk. Old-growth forest concerns The lawsuit also challenges the Forest Service because the Cyclone Bill project would target old-growth forests. The Forest Services own data shows that 5,900 acres of National Forest land within the project area qualify as old-growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit contends that logging some of the old-growth areas contradicts the Flathead National Forests plan which states, Promoting the develop of future old-growth forest is also a key strategy (of) the forest and in the forest plans management direction as a means of addressing future uncertainties related to climate change and its effects of disturbances and old-growth forests. The lawsuit said that many bird species, including flammulated owls, northern goshawks and black-backed woodpeckers rely upon the old-growth forests in Montana. The project environmental analysis does not consider, explain, or otherwise analyze, which, if any, old-growth dependent wildlife species could survive in such heavily logged conditions created by the Cyclone Bill Project, the court documents said. Side-stepping scrutiny? The lawsuit also said the Forest Service appears to be sidestepping scrutiny by proposing the Cyclone Bill and the Round Star projects as separate, individual projects, rather as a whole project. The conservation groups say that the Forest Service is likely doing this to hide the details of the project which may be more obvious if the two projects were combined. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cyclone Bill and Round Star are two adjacent project that were developed in tandem, located side-by-side, and authorized less than a year apart, the court documents said. The Forest Service refused to analyze these two similar and adjoining projects together, and instead issued findings of no significant impact for both projects without considering the cumulative impacts from both projects together. Attorneys Oliver Wood and Alizabeth Bronsdon said that the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, of which Montana is a part, has repeatedly ruled projects closely related in terms of time and location must be analyzed together. The National Environmental Policy Act does not allow an approach that would permit dividing a project into multiple actions, each of which individually has an insignificant environmental impact, but which collectively have a substantial impact, the appeals court said in a 2002 ruling. The groups are asking federal magistrate Kathleen DeSoto to declare that the logging project violates the law, vacate the Forest Services finding of No Significant Impact and send the plans back to the Forest Service for modification until it complies with the law. Republicans are divided on the value of Ghislaine Maxwell as she takes center stage in the Jeffrey Epstein files saga. Some view the convicted sex trafficker as the key to unlocking additional information about the Epstein enigma such as revealing high-powered abusers of young women who have not faced legal consequences for their crimes, or secret arrangements Epstein had that enabled his abuse. But others warn that Maxwell, who was complicit in the abuse and previously faced perjury charges (on which she was not convicted), is not a reliable witness and deserves no special treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hanging over Maxwells discussion with the Department of Justice and the House Oversight Committees subpoena of Maxwell is her desire for a pardon or commutation. President Trump hasnt ruled out a pardon for Maxwell, but hasnt indicated he is considering one, either. Trump said Monday that Im allowed to give her a pardon, but nobodys approached me. Some conservatives are slowly cracking the door to that possibility. Newsmax host Greg Kelly suggested last week that Maxwell just might be a victim. Maybe she never deserved to be in there [prison] in the first place . Prosecutors prosecuted President Trump over nothing. I dont know, but Im skeptical of everything and everybody these days, Kelly said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), who has emerged as a top GOP Trump antagonist in Congress and is pushing to force a vote on a bipartisan measure to direct the DOJ to release more Epstein material, expressed openness to a Maxwell pardon or commutation on NBCs Meet the Press on Sunday. That would be up to the president. But if she has information that could help us, then I think she should testify. Lets get that out there. And whatever they need to do to compel that testimony, as long as its truthful, I would be in favor of, Massie said. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), on the other hand, has emerged as one of the most prominent figure urging caution when considering those kinds of sweeteners for Maxwell testimony. If youre asking my opinion, I think 20 years was a pittance. I think she should have a life sentence at least, Johnson said Sunday, also on Meet the Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its hard to put into words how evil this was, and that she orchestrated it and was a big part of it, at least under the criminal sanction, I think is an unforgivable thing So again, not my decision, but I have great pause about that, as any reasonable person would, Johnson said. Trump-supporting commentator Jack Posobiec has also raised skepticism about Maxwell, saying her motive is very clear in wanting to reduce her sentence or get a full pardon. Maxell, he said, needs to provide receipts and names If Ghislane Maxwell wants anything from the Department of Justice, there need to be names, there needs to be receipts Who did what, where did it happen and you also have to provide information that is able to back up the credibility of the accusation, Posobiec said last week. Maxwell has already sat for a two-day interview with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, and was reportedly granted limited immunity before doing so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maxwells attorney, David Oscar Markus, said in a statement to NewsNation on Friday that it was a thorough, comprehensive interview. No person and no topic were off-limits. We are very grateful. The truth will come out, Markus said. Blanche said the department would share more information at the appropriate time. Maxwell on Monday formally appealed to the Supreme Court in hopes of overturning her conviction. The Justice Department has opposed her appeal. Often left out of the flurry of Epstein drama over the last few weeks are the effects of the developments on Epsteins victims. Independent journalist Tara Palmeri, who has reported extensively on the Epstein case over the years, reported that survivors of the abuse from Epstein and Maxwell feel betrayed by the Justice Department and others going to her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its very backhanded. Why dont they go to the survivors? Why is she being called the Rosetta Stone? The victims know everything too. They were eyewitnesses, Marijke Chartouni, one of Epsteins survivors,said in Palmeris The Red Letter. Further reading: Todd Blanche takes the helm of Ghislaine Maxwell talks , from my colleagues Zach Schonfeld and Ella Lee in their newsletter, The Gavel. Welcome to The Movement, a weekly newsletter looking at the influences and debates on the right in Washington. Im Emily Brooks, House leadership reporter at The Hill. Tell me whats on your radar: ebrooks@thehill.com. Not already on the list? Subscribe here CONSERVATIVE SCRUTINY RISES ON FDA APPOINTEE A wave of conservative scrutiny is crashing on a key FDA official: Vinay Prasad, the FDAs chief medical and scientific officer and the director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It started with conservative provocateur Laura Loomer, who has spent months digging up dirt on Trump administration appointees to raise alarm about what she calls a vetting crisis that is putting Trump antagonists in positions of power. Prasad, Loomer said, is a progressive leftist saboteur undermining President Trumps FDA highlighting his self-described support for progressive Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.). Wall Street Journal editorial board member Allysia Finley expanded on that criticism in an opinion piece on Monday that dubbed Prasad a Bernie Sanders Acolyte in MAHA Drag. She criticized the FDA for in recent weeks for rejecting disease therapies, and noted Prasads previous stated skepticism of the Right to Try law which Trump signed in his first term that is intended to allow terminally ill patients wider access to drugs not yet approved by the FDA. The irony is that Prasad has also gotten praise from the Make America Healthy Again crowd over his stances and policies on COVID vaccines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robert Goldberg, vice president of The Center for Medicine in the Public Interest, noted that phenomenon while slamming Prasad in RealClear Health. A few vaccine-hesitant soundbites and critiques of lockdowns, and suddenly hes portrayed as a maverick ally of the populist right. But dont be fooled, Goldberg wrote. Some on the right, though, are suspicious of ulterior motives behind the wave of criticism. Daily Caller reporter Emily Kopp noted the criticism of Prasad coincides with the FDA asking drugmaker Sarepta Therapeutics to stop distribution of its therapy for a muscle-wasting disease after three patients on its therapy or a similar one died. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, for his part, defended Prasad when asked about Loomers attacks in a Politicos podcast The Conversation with Dasha Burns that premiered Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Look, theres not a political bone to his body, Makary said. Hes an impeccable scientist. I think one of the greatest scientific minds of our generation. Go deeper in Finleys WSJ op-ed: Vinay Prasad Is a Bernie Sanders Acolyte in MAHA Drag TARIFF TOLD-YOU-SOS Defenders of President Trumps tariff strategy are doing a big round of I-told-you-so on the heels of a tariff agreement with the European Union announced over the weekend. The deal came ahead of an Aug. 1 deadline for the presidents tariff increases to kick in unless countries strike a deal with the U.S. tariffs that rocked financial markets after Liberation Day in April, but have been met by a much calmer Wall Street ahead of this deadline, CNBC reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick posted on X on Sunday: Where are the experts now? Circulating rapidly in conservative circles is a clip from liberal commentator Bill Maher saying I would have thought and I gotta own it that these tariffs were going to fing sink this economy by this time and they didnt. For Republicans, the tariff deal is feeding into their narrative of Trump being underestimated and beating the odds. The experts mocked him. The media laughed. Democrats panicked. But President Trump reshaped global trade, and WON for America, Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-Texas) posted on X. The EU-US deal includes a 15 percent tariff on European exports including autos; an agreement for the EU to buy $750 billion worth of American energy; and no EU tariffs on certain American exports including aircraft and some generic drugs, per the New York Times . Related: Donald Trump has won the Hulkamania tariffs brawl he started , from Bloomberg Opinions John Authers. How the EU succumbed to Trumps tariff steamroller , from the Financial Times. ON MY CALENDAR Wednesday, July 30: Breitbart News hosts a discussion with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent , co-sponsored by the Alfa Institute and CGCN, at 9:30am. Wednesday, July 30: The Cato Institute hosts discussion on the impact of tariffs on wine and whiskey followed by a wine and whiskey tasting featuring Scott Lincicome , Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), and Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) at 4 p.m. Monday, August 25 to Thursday, August 28: State Policy Network Annual Meeting in New Orleans, La. THREE MORE THINGS Tiffany Justice is the new national grassroots leader at Heritage Action, the advocacy arm of the conservative think tank, the group is announcing today. She was a co-founder at Moms for Liberty and as a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation, launched the groups Parental Rights Initiative and founded the Parental Rights Network. Kevin Roberts, president of Heritage Action and the Heritage Foundation, called Justice a force or nature in the announcement; Justice said she aims to unite Americans around commonsense, conservative solutions that strengthen families, protect freedoms, and deliver real results. 2028 watch: Secretary of State Marco Rubio appeared to endorse Vice President JD Vance in a potential 2028 run a notable statement given President Trump once listed both Rubio and Vance as people who could lead the MAGA movement after he leaves office. In an interview on Fox Newss My View with Lara Trump, Rubio said: I think JD Vance would be a great nominee if he decides he wants to do that. Israel-Gaza divide: Theres a fissure emerging among some of the loudest personalities in the House GOP over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza or even recognizing that there is one. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) notably decried the situation on X on Monday: I can unequivocally say that what happened to innocent people in Israel on Oct 7th was horrific. Just as I can unequivocally say that what has been happening to innocent people and children in Gaza is horrific. This war and humanitarian crisis must end! But Rep. Randy Fine (R-Fla.), on the other hand, claimed in a post on X on Sunday: There is no starvation. Everything about the Palestinian cause is a lie. WHAT IM READING First posted at 8 a.m., updated at 1 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. In recent months, the Trump administration has terminated thousands of federally funded medical research grants, gutting $9.5 billion in critical health science efforts. More than half of those cuts 1,246 grants worth $5.5 billion targeted studies focused on LGBTQ+ health. These cuts dont just reflect shifting policy priorities. They also risk limiting the scientific insights that inform clinical care and support the health of all Americans. Beginning in February, thousands of scientists received abrupt notices terminating funding for vital research involving LGBTQ+ populations. The justification? Their research was deemed based primarily on artificial and nonscientific categories, including amorphous equity objectives. One letter even claimed that research programs based on gender identity are often unscientific, have little identifiable return on investment, and do nothing to enhance the health of many Americans. The grants that were terminated underwent stringent peer review prior to funding and covered a wide range of important issues from Alzheimers disease and breast cancer to caregiver well-being and school safety. In many cases, the common factor cited in their termination was simply the inclusion of LGBTQ+ populations within the research scope. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When groups of people are excluded from research, it sends a message about whose health is prioritized. The disproportionate elimination of LGBTQ-focused research is more than a policy decision or political maneuver. It weakens the foundation of evidence-based care. Research is essential to understanding health risks, evaluating treatments and improving care for people who need it most. When research funding is withdrawn, medical care falls behind, and collectively we all suffer. LGBTQ+ people make up nearly 10% of the U.S. population, and long-standing research shows they face significant health disparities. Many of these gaps remain poorly understood because of limited studies. For example, lesbian, gay and bisexual populations experience higher rates of substance use disorders, often beginning in adolescence. LGBTQ+ adults are three to six times more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual, cisgender counterparts. The incidence of several cancers is also higher, but we dont have a comprehensive understanding of why. Crucial studies investigating possible causes and risk factors were among those recently terminated. Weve seen the consequences of neglecting health disparities before. For decades, medical problems unique to Black Americans were understudied and unsolved. For example, the false assumptions that hypertension can be managed the same across racial groups delayed important insights and limited the development of tailored treatment. These delays resulted in worse cardiovascular outcomes for Black patients compared with their white counterparts. Another historical example of the dangers of excluding subpopulations from research is the Food and Drug Administrations 1977 decision to ban women of childbearing age from clinical drug trials. This guideline created a selection bias against women across the research world and slowed progress in understanding their unique health needs. Though the ban was lifted 16 years later, we remain behind in our understanding of cardiovascular disease management in women, and closing that gap will require decades of focused research. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And now the Trump administration is repeating this pattern by deliberately excluding a subgroup of the population from research. The neglect of health disparities among LGBTQ+ patients will continue, to their great detriment. The withdrawal of grant funding specific to this group risks condemning millions of people to dangerous health disadvantages for years to come. This move diminishes the pool of researchers dedicated to solving health problems that affect the LGBTQ+ community, as they are forced to follow other funding lines. Lack of research attention to communities with unique needs, such as the LGBTQ+ population, risks increased marginalization and exacerbates stigma. Stigma has long shaped how public health crises are recognized and addressed. In 1981, U.S. health officials became aware of an emerging disease they called Gay-Related Immune Deficiency. Contracting this disease came with both a death sentence and the stigma of having the gay plague. The condition was eventually understood to be a serious public health issue affecting a broad range of people and was renamed HIV/AIDS. Yet it took nearly five years before President Reagan made major funding available for HIV/AIDS research. Delays in funding, in part because of stigma, slowed scientific progress and contributed to the spread of the epidemic. To ignore the issues facing any one population is to risk potential harm to all of society. All people deserve quality, evidence-based healthcare that addresses their unique physical, psychological and social needs. That is precisely why medical research is a foundational pillar of a functioning healthcare system. Without it, our understanding of diseases and treatments is dependent on outdated, extrapolated or incomplete evidence which causes harm. By withholding funding for research that includes LGBTQ+ participants, the Trump administration is sending a message that the health of nearly 32 million Americans simply isnt worth the investment of federal dollars. The cost of that decision will be measured in suffering, inequity and lives lost not just within the LGBTQ+ community, but across the entire healthcare system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haley Stepp is the research program manager at the George Washington University School of Nursing. Kathleen Griffith is a professor at the George Washington University School of Nursing and School of Medicine and Health Sciences. If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. An investigation is underway after an inmate serving a life sentence at a Los Angeles County prison allegedly attempted to kill two guards over the weekend. The attack happened Sunday evening around 6:45 p.m., at the California State Prison, Los Angeles County in Lancaster. According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, two guards were stabbed with a shiv as they attempted to do an inspection in the cell of Shuantae Taylor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taylor began stabbing both officers with an improvised weapon, CDCR officials said in a news release Monday. Staff quickly quelled the attack and no other staff members were injured. The guards were treated at the scene by medical staff before being transported to an outside medical facility for further treatment. Theyve both since been discharged, officials said. The suspected weapon was recovered at the scene, and Taylor was transported to a different prison to be placed in restrictive housing. CDCR officials say the attack is being investigated as an attempted murder, and the case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office for potential charges. Shuantae R. Taylor, 43, is shown in this mugshot by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation taken on Jan. 10, 2024. (CDCR) Taylor, 43, was sentenced in San Bernardino County in March 2009 to life in prison with the potential for parole. His convictions included rape, criminal threats and force oral copulation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He received an additional 40-year sentence for firing a gun in an inhabited dwelling, second-degree robbery, witness intimidation, using a hostage as a human shield, and multiple gun violations. That sentence is concurrent to his life sentence, meaning hell serve both sentences simultaneously. In addition to his convictions outside of prison, in May 2019, he was sentenced to four years for aggravated battery on an officer while incarcerated in Kings county; and ten years for battery on a non-prisoner and a peace officer while incarcerated in Kern County. CDCR says peer support services have been made available to employees at the prison, which houses more than 2,800 inmates in all levels of security from minimum to maximum. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. DE SOTO, Wis. (WFRV) A 41-year-old registered sex offender from La Crosse is facing two dozen additional felony charges after allegedly photographing minors during a school sporting event in Vernon County. According to the Vernon County Sheriffs Office, authorities in late March 2025 were contacted by the La Crosse Police Department, which had uncovered digital media during a search warrant at the suspects home. The images reportedly depicted minors and were believed to have been taken in Vernon County. Illinois man arrested after multi-state pursuit, vehicle theft in Wisconsin Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators determined that 24 minors from three different area school districts were photographed during a sporting event held in October 2024 in the Village of De Soto. All of the children in the photos have since been identified. The suspect was identified as Jonathan R. Staats, 41, of La Crosse. Authorities say they will recommend 24 charges of a registered sex offender intentionally photographing a minorone count for each identified victim. Staats was previously convicted in November 2023 in La Crosse County Circuit Court for trafficking of a child, party to the crime. He was ordered to register as a sex offender for 15 years. Traffic stop leads to arrest of two Wisconsin women, meth and cocaine seized Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is also currently facing multiple felony charges in La Crosse County in connection to a child pornography investigation that began in February 2025 following a cyber tip. The images discovered by Vernon County officials were located during that investigation. Authorities ask anyone with additional information related to the case to contact law enforcement. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. Zarah Sultana does not want for energy or enthusiasm. She may lack other qualities political judgment, for example, or a sense of perspective but these can be forgiven in one so young. But the interview she gave to the Marxist in-house media organisation of choice, Novara, yesterday showed the Coventry South MP at her finest: brimming with confidence and excitement at the recent launch of her new political party and evangelically enthusiastic for the change she is determined it will achieve. She was like one of those Duracell bunnies that never seems to stop hopping about, energised by her own rhetoric and ideas. Inevitably and herein lies one of the new, unnamed partys most vulnerable weaknesses she was at her most passionate when discussing (or rather, when she was repeating cliches and sound bites regarding) Gaza. Its a weakness because the conflict there between Israel and Hamas terrorists may not (we hope) be as high profile a news item by the time the UK goes to the polls to elect a government in 2028 or 2029. And building a movement on an issue that may not have the same resonance in a few years time is fraught with dangers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also, Sultana likes to believe that a hard-Left party will, simply by its existence, appeal to working-class communities. This is an article of faith among such activists, who remain convinced, despite acres of evidence to the contrary, that working-class voters are instinctively drawn to the extremes of the political Left. Yet those traditionally labelled as working-class seem not to have bought into the keffiyeh fetish so beloved of most of the white middle-class protesters who take part in the weekly Israel hate-fests to which the rest of us are now mostly inured. Like so many on the Marxist Left, Sultana seems unable to make her way to the end of any interview without demanding that Britains current leadership face trial at the Hague. This is almost a Pavlovian response to events in the Middle East and is well beloved of hard-Left activists. Remember the middle-class wet dreams of many critics of the Iraq war who regularly used to predict Tony Blairs imminent arrival at the Hague? There were even TV dramas made about it to assuage the ravenous appetite of those who were struggling to cope with their disappointment that no one was taking them seriously. And so, it is with those who fulminate against Keir Starmer and David Lammy and who demand they face international justice, based on the erroneous belief that the Israeli war machine depends exclusively on the British arms industry. If there is a similarity to the arguments frequently made by climate change activists regarding Britains culpability for global temperature rises, it lies in the fact that unilateral action by the UK would have no serious impact on either situation. To demand that those who disagree with you should be sent to prison is a strangely central American solution to any policy conflict. And perhaps it serves as a warning of the ideological purity and intolerance that afflicts all such far-Left splinters when they first form. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Right doesnt have a monopoly on working-class anger, Sultana enthused. Well, perhaps not, but there cant be that many housing estates where residents are enthusiastically signing up to her new party because of their anger at the number of people who refuse to believe that trans women are women, which will inevitably be one of the unshakeable principles of the new party. Yet when it comes to the real cause of working-class anger the intolerable levels of legal immigration into our country and the continuing humiliation of our border security by the daily arrivals of those fleeing persecution in [checks notes] France Sultanas response was all about household bills and nationalising the water companies. That answer may require some work before the televised election debates in a few years time. It should be noted, however, that despite the many grotesque and occasionally entertaining fallacies and contradictions of the hard-Left mindset, electoral success is not actually beyond the reach of the new party and its (for the moment) co-leaders, Sultana and Jeremy Corbyn. With Reform UK upending everyones expectations, with Labour at a historic low in the polls and the Conservatives on the verge of extinction, who can say to what extent the new party will serve as a disruptor to the established political process? It may have an electoral appeal that is limited to those who believe in growing both the welfare and tax bills exponentially while at the same time cancelling economic growth due to climate concerns, but under the first-past-the-post electoral system, it is at least conceivable that such a message could prove the least unpopular among competing policies in some parts of the country. At the very least, the new party will be a headache for the current Government and governing party. How long that remains the case will depend on how long Ms Sultana can maintain her Tiggerish optimism. Never have the next four years seemed quite so long. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A pedestrian hit and killed in a crash involving a garbage truck near the East Baton Rouge Parish and Ascension Parish line early Tuesday, July 29, has been identified. The East Baton Rouge Coroners Office confirmed 48-year-old Travis Weams was killed in the crash. The incident happened around 5 a.m. near the Manchac Bridge and led to the closure of Airline Highway southbound. First responders confirmed that a pedestrian was hit and killed by a garbage truck in front of the fairgrounds. (Michael Johnson) According to Louisiana State Police, Weams was driving a 2012 Toyota Camry when it crashed on Airline Highway. Weams exited his vehicle, crossed the median, and was hit by a garbage truck. After the initial impact, a 2016 Ford Mustang struck Weams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He sustained serious injuries and was pronounced dead on the scene. Both drivers of the garbage truck and the Mustang were wearing seatbelts at the time of impact. Police do not suspect impairment for either driver, but a standard toxicology sample was taken for analysis. This crash is an ongoing investigation. 3 hurt, 1 in critical condition after head-on crash in Baton Rouge, officials say Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here. When Benjamin Netanyahu returned to power in 2022 after a brief period of political exile, he did so on the backs of the most extreme allies in Israeli history. Fourteen of his coalitions 64 seats were held by parties led by two explicitly anti-Arab lawmakers: Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich. Ben-Gvir had been charged and convicted of support for terrorism and racist incitement. He was a disciple of Meir Kahane, a rabbi who called for the expulsion of Israels Arabs and whose political party was banned from Parliament for its radicalism. Smotrich had advocated segregating Jews and Arabs in Israeli maternity wards and told his Arab colleagues in the Knesset that they were enemies who were here by mistake. Both Ben-Gvir and Smotrich expressed sympathy for violent settler attacks in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Both sought to annex the West Bank and disenfranchise or expel the Palestinians living there. And both became ministers in Netanyahus new government, because the Israeli leader desperately needed their support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The math was simple: The parties in Netanyahus coalition received just 48.4 percent of the vote and attained a parliamentary majority only through a quirk of the Israeli electoral system. This meant that Netanyahu entered office in a profoundly precarious positionon trial for corruption and beholden to extremists who could bring him down if he bucked their demands. Recognizing how bad this arrangement looked from the outside, Netanyahu embarked on an international PR campaign to assure outsiders that he, not the extremists, was running the show. They are joining me, he told NPR. Im not joining them. The trajectory of the war in Gaza has conclusively disproved this spin. At crucial junctures, the prime ministers choices have been corrupted by the need to cater to those with the ability to end his grip on power. As a result, he has undermined Israels war effort and shredded the countrys international standing abroad. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the events that precipitated the Gaza hunger crisis. [Read: The Two Extremists Driving Israels Policy] Israel was faced with a dilemma after Hamas butchered some 1,200 Israelis and took hundreds more hostage. The United Nations Relief Works Agency was the only actor capable of delivering humanitarian aid to the civilians of Gaza during the ensuing war, but UNRWA was compromised by Hamas, which siphoned supplies for itself and sold them at a markup to fund its operations. Although the extent of this co-option is disputed, the fact of it cannot be denied. Employees of the organization were among the perpetrators of the October 7 atrocities, as even the UN itself has acknowledged; hostages have testified that they were held by UNRWA staff or in UNRWA facilities. All aid goes downthat is, underground to Hamasand does not reach the nation, an elderly Palestinian woman told Al Jazeera in December 2023. Everything goes to their houses. They take it, they will even shoot me and do whatever they want to me, Hamas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas has obscured its subversion of aid by intimidating aid workers, civilians, and media outlets. In the early days of the war, the terrorist group reportedly looted fuel and medical supplies from UNRWAs headquarters in Gaza City. The aid organization initially disclosed this on social media but then deleted the post. It had good reason to worry. More than a decade ago, a senior UNRWA officer in Gaza attempted to investigate whether any of the organizations local employees were moonlighting with Hamas. He received a funeral bouquet in the mail, and later a live grenade, at which point he was evacuated from the territory. According to The New York Times, Matthias Schmale, the head of UNRWA in Gaza from 2017 to 2021, gave a TV interview that upset Hamas; he was pushed out of his position after the group informed UNRWA that it could no longer guarantee his security. Would I be totally surprised if at the end of the day there is proof that 2,000 UNRWA staff are members of Hamas? Schmale told the paper. No, I wouldnt be, though it would be a bit shocking if it is such a high number. Faced with this predicament, as well as pressure from the Biden administration to allow more aid, Israel had several credible options for providing humanitarian assistance. Starting on day one of its ground invasion, the army could have begun building a new aid mechanism for Gazas civilians by setting up non-UNRWA distribution centers, in conjunction with local and international partners, in each area where it assumed control. Or Israel could simply have flooded the enclave with so much aid that Hamas would not be able to resell it for significant value. This latter option had the downside of inevitably funneling food and fuel to Hamas in its tunnels, perversely bolstering the groups fight against the country supplying it. But realistically speaking, there was no way to starve Hamas out of its well-stocked underground fortress without first starving the desperate Gazan civilian population, which, as ever, served as the groups human shield. Israel chose neither of these options. Instead, it allowed UNRWA to continue limited operations, while repeatedly tightening and relaxing restrictions in response to complaints about the diversion of aid. Israel then agreed to surge supplies into the territory during the 42-day cease-fire in Januaryonly to completely blockade all aid for two months afterward. Finally, with Gaza on the brink, Israel and the United States launched the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation in May, attempting at last to displace UNRWA. This effort to implement an entirely new system on the fly, under the worst possible conditions, unsurprisingly failed. Both Israeli troops and Hamas killed Palestinians trying to reach the distribution sites, and food prices in Gaza skyrocketed, culminating in the crisis we see today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Read: No rational aid-distribution system should work this way] Israels choices here are contradictory and do not make moral or strategic sense. But they do make political sense from Netanyahus perspective. Since the start of the war, the prime minister has contended with pressures from opposing directions: from international partners insisting that he sustain Gazas civilians and from the right flank of his coalition, which seeks to ethnically cleanse those civilians and repopulate the area with Jewish settlements. Ben-Gvir and Smotrich have explicitly called for the voluntary migration of the areas Palestinian population and advocated ending humanitarian aid as a lever to achieve it. The only way to win the war and bring back the hostages is to completely stop the humanitarian aid, conquer the entire Gaza Strip, and encourage voluntary migration, Ben-Gvir declared on Saturday on social media. To keep this faction in checkand keep himself in powerNetanyahu needed to ensure that the choices he made could satisfy not just military imperatives or international diktats but also the hard rights demands. Every step he authorized had to be dual use: ostensibly for a strategic purpose but also capable of potentially advancing the far rights plan. In practice, pursuing these two goals at the same time is incompatible with a just and successfully prosecuted war: It is impossible to provide aid and also withhold it, to pursue a limited war against Hamas to free hostages and also a war of conquest. The longer the conflict has gone on, the more obvious the compromised nature of Netanyahus decision making has become. Initially, the Israeli leader was restrained by pressure from the Biden administration (which pushed for more aid and compelled Netanyahu to reject Gazan displacement), Defense Minister Yoav Gallant (who insisted that Gaza be returned to Palestinian governance), and the centrist wartime-coalition partner Benny Gantz (who advocated for a cease-fire). But Gantz left the coalition in June 2024, Joe Biden was replaced by Donald Trump in November, Netanyahu fired Gallant the day Trump won, and then Trump himself proposed relocating the Gazan population in order to construct a Riviera in the Middle East. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The result: Today, the only pressure on Netanyahu is from the far right, which is effectively running his war policy against the desires of a large majority of Israelis who oppose settlements in Gaza and support a hostage deal to end the war. [Read: The worst kept secret of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict] This bleak reality and its consequences explain the growing alienation of many of even Israels strongest international allies. After October 7, Israels partners may have thought they were interfacing with a typicalif deeply conservativeIsraeli government. Now they actually seem to be dealing with a Smotrich/Ben-Gvir government in a Netanyahu-shaped trench coat. Belatedly, a group of European countries, as well as Britain, Australia, and Canada, are attemptingwithout American assistanceto reimpose the pressures that might compel Netanyahu to change course. Hamas has agency in all this. It chose to launch the October 7 attack knowing that it would provoke a devastating response; it chooses to hold hostages in underground dungeons under inhumane conditions; it chooses to hide within and beneath Gazas civilians; it chooses to appropriate aid intended for those civilians to fuel its messianic war machine. Israel also faces prejudice and unfair expectations that would not be faced by many other countries in such circumstances. But Netanyahu has agency in how he chooses to respond to these realities. He has made his choiceand Palestinians and Israelis will continue to pay the price for it until he makes a different one. Article originally published at The Atlantic Washington Democratic Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey sparred with fellow Democrats on Tuesday over a bipartisan policing package, accusing them of being "complicit" in President Trump's agenda in a rare moment of intraparty disagreement that played out on the Senate floor. The heated exchange arose after Booker objected to a motion from Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, a Democrat from Nevada, to swiftly pass a package of bills related to law enforcement. Booker said he wanted to make a change to the bloc of measures to ensure resources are distributed equally among law enforcement agencies in response to the Justice Department's changes to grant programs and cancellation of awards. "We are standing at a moment where our president is eviscerating the Constitution of the United States of America, and we're willing to go along with that today," he said. "No, no. Not on my watch. I stand against this. It is a violation of our Constitution for the president of the United States to ignore the will of Congress and decide which states are eligible for grants and which are not." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Booker accused Cortez Masto and Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat who backs the legislative package, of lecturing him. "What I am tired of is when the president of the United States violates the Constitution, trashes our norms and traditions and what does the Democratic Party do? Comply? Allow him? Beg for scraps? No. I demand justice," he said. Booker said the Democratic Party "needs a wake-up call." "It's time for Democrats to have a backbone. It's time for us to fight. It's time for us to draw lines," he said, as his voice started rising. "Don't question my integrity. Don't question my motives." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Booker said in his remarks from the Senate floor that the Justice Department has been weaponizing public safety grants to punish state and local jurisdictions that oppose Mr. Trump's second-term agenda, and it is withholding funds from law enforcement agencies across the country when they were approved by Congress with bipartisan backing. "It is disgraceful, it is unfair, it is unjust and it is dangerously reckless toward the officers whose well-being they are jeopardizing," Booker said. "Federal funds should not be used for partisan political gains." The New Jersey Democrat lambasted his colleagues and accused them of effectively blessing Mr. Trump's decision to rescind grant funds by approving the legislative package. "For us as a body to move forward right now is being complicit in what Donald Trump is doing," Booker said. "I say no. I say we stand. I say we fight. I say we reject this, and that in a bipartisan way, we demand an end to this kind of constitutionally unjust carving up of the resources we approve." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Booker had put forward an amendment to the bloc of bills that he said would prevent politicization and ensure resources are spread evenly among law enforcement agencies, regardless of the state they are in. Senator Cory Booker, a Democrat from New Jersey, speaks to members of the media while arriving for a vote at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, US, on Thursday, July 17, 2025. / Credit: Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images "This to me is the problem with Democrats in America right now, is we're willing to be complicit to Donald Trump, to let this pass through when we have all the leverage right now there is, to say, 'if you're as passionate about police as we are, then pass bills out of this body that will help the police officers in Washington, that will help the police officers in Illinois, that will help the police officers in New Jersey,'" he said. "Don't be complicit to the president of the United States." In response, Cortez Masto said the measures had been approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee with bipartisan support including by Booker. She criticized him for not putting forth his proposed amendment when the bills were before the panel and said his suggested change doesn't apply to her legislation. "This is ridiculous," she said, adding that Booker should have raised his concerns weeks ago. "Is this the right venue to fight for what he is seeking?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Klobuchar, in her own remarks on the Senate floor, also defended the package and suggested Booker had missed the committee meeting when they were marked up. Booker is a member of the Judiciary Committee. "I can't help it if someone couldn't change their schedule to be there," she said. Klobuchar said Booker has had issues with her policing bill that predate Mr. Trump's return to the White House, adding, "One of the things I don't understand here is that we have committees for a reason, and we have hearings for a reason. And you can't do one thing on Police Week and not show up and not object and let these bills go through, and then say another a few weeks later on the floor." The tense back-and-forth came as Democrats have struggled to coalesce around a strategy for pushing back against Mr. Trump's second-term agenda. Republicans control both the House and Senate, leaving Democrats with limited means to derail his legislative priorities if they disagree with them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch: Hawaii Gov. Josh Green gives update on tsunami warning Forensics expert analysis of Jeffrey Epstein jail video contradicts government's claims Russia reacts to Trump's new deadline on Ukraine ceasefire While the market has focused on the AI-driven rally in Big Tech companies such as Nvidia (NVDA), Microsoft (MSFT), and Alphabet (GOOGL), one hidden gem has quietly outperformed them all. BigBear.ai (BBAI), a mid-cap artificial intelligence (AI) firm, has emerged as a stealth growth story, outperforming expectations and showing real traction in mission-critical government work, industrial innovation, and defense applications. More News from Barchart So far in 2025, BigBear stock has outperformed major AI benchmarks and large-cap tech names, which is unusual for a mid-cap defense-tech player. The stock has risen 59% year to date, outperforming Nvidia (up 30.6%), Microsoft (up 21%), and Google (up 1.4%). Lets find out if it is the right time to grab this hidden gem now. www.barchart.com A New Chapter for BigBear.ai BigBear.ai, led by newly appointed CEO Kevin McAleenan, is positioning itself in the rapidly evolving AI economy. BigBear.ai reported $34.8 million in first-quarter revenue, up 5% year over year despite a challenging and often unpredictable government contracting landscape. More impressive is the companys 30% increase in backlog, which now totals $385 million. This expanding order book reflects growing trust in BigBear.ais AI-powered solutions for security, logistics, and critical infrastructure. While analysts focus on headline-making AI chipmakers, BigBear.ai is building a growth story around sticky, long-cycle contracts and mission dependency. During the Q1 earnings call, management stated that BigBear.ai is continuing to push several of its research projects into general availability, including real-world AI solutions such as veriScan, Trueface, Pangiam Threat Detection, and ConductorOS. These products are at the intersection of AI and national security, allowing BigBear.ai to meet the growing demand for automated threat detection, secure identity verification, and intelligent decision-making platforms. This resulted in an increase in R&D spending of $4.2 million in Q1, up from $1.1 million in the year-ago period. While the company is still unprofitable, its net loss narrowed to $62 million, compared to $127.8 million in the year-ago quarter. BigBear.ai is also working to strengthen its balance sheet, ending the quarter with $107.6 million in cash and equivalents. Furthermore, the company reduced its convertible note debt by $58 million, bringing the remaining principal to $142 million. JACKSON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) This groundbreaking Monday signifies the beginning of the revitalization of the Cottondale area. Many of the towns buildings along 231 have been empty for years. This revitalization project began with the demolition of one of the buildings. And so were here today to sort of kick off our first phase, and thats the demolition, Mayor James Elmore said. The City of Cottondale received a $1.7 million community development block grant from the state to undertake this project. Block grants go to local governments to help revitalize areas and improve the quality of life for residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Downtown Panama Citys Family Dollar store to close permanently Florida Commerce will be working closely with Cottondale officals to help this project run smoothly. Florida Commerce is extremely happy to get the first phase started. This is for the hometown revitalization program with Florida Commerce with CDBG-DR funds. So were really excited to revitalize this community and get them back into shape, Florida Commerce Infrastructure Program Manager Amanda Iscrupe said. The final goal of the project is to add public areas for people to use. There will be green spaces, parking for food trucks, a playground, a dog park, and walking trails. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local officials hope the project will help make the Cottondale portion of the 231 corridor more presentable to visitors. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. Counsellors at one of Scotland's oldest mental health charities are trying to save its youth service - after it closed suddenly leaving about 1,000 children and young people without support. Mental Health Aberdeen, which operated for 75 years, announced last week it was shutting with immediate effect. It said it faced a "complex set of circumstances and rising operational costs". However, former staff are trying to restart some services, including those previously provided in every primary and secondary school in the city, as well as student counselling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ex-employees told BBC Scotland News it was "devastating" for young people to be left so suddenly without counselling and they want to set up a new charity. Alan McTamney was involved in the charity's ACIS Youth scheme which offered free one-to-one therapeutic counselling to young people. Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland's Drivetime programme, he said a number of those involved in the scheme were looking at setting up their own charity to provide a similar service. He said he hoped it could "maybe send a message to our client group that they're not forgotten, and we haven't abandoned them". Escalate mental health issues "There are no other services in Aberdeen city that do what we do," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We would be very worried about how that escalates mental health issues." Mr McTamney said there had been a huge demand for counselling services in schools. He said: "Last year we offered in excess of 12,000 appointments, and that only gets bigger the more we're able to attend to the needs of children and young people." We've been eating beef since as far back as 10,500 years ago. From hunting, we went on to domesticate cattle, which are now reared for meat on an industrial scale. Global production of beef and veal reached 73.56 million metric tons in 2024, according to Statista. But while many people falsely believe that Brazil is the country that produces the most beef, as it turns out, it's the good old U.S.-of-A. About 26.19 billion pounds (11.88 million metric tons) of beef were produced in the United States alone in 2024, per Statista, accounting for roughly 16% of the world's total production. The scale can be a bit difficult to imagine, so let's put it into perspective: If you were to gather all American farms together, you would discover that almost one-third of them produce beef. The precise number does vary slightly depending on the source, but they all agree on one thing: The great majority of the meat used in classic beef dishes around the world, from pot roasts to beef Wellington and bulgogi, is produced right here in America. And that's despite the fact that many countries don't import much U.S. beef as it doesn't comply with their rules. The second highest is Brazil, and the third is China. But in a way, it sort of makes sense that the nation at the top of the list would be somewhat associated with cowboys and fast-paced cattle auctions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: The Most Popular Cuts Of Steak Ranked Worst To Best Texas Is The American Beef Capital Texas longhorns ranch land Texas - Bob Pool/Shutterstock Speaking of cowboys, it probably doesn't come as a surprise that Texas holds the crown for the state that produces the most beef. According to Data Pandas, in May 2025, there are over 4.3 million heads of beef cattle in the Lone Star State, accounting for 14.87% of the total cattle production in the U.S. Cattle ranching is ingrained in the state's history, dating back three centuries to when the Spanish brought livestock into the Rio Grande Valley. Not only was there plenty of land and pastures for cattle to freely roam, but the warm climate is perfect for ranching operations, too, since cattle can graze year-round without having to fear the cold. Over the next century, ranches sprouted beyond the Rio Grande and into the expansive rangelands along the San Antonio River. From the very beginning, Texas has had the history, the infrastructure, and the geography to be a major beef-producing state. The second biggest beef producing state in the U.S. -- Texas' northerly neighbor, Oklahoma -- has a herd that's only half the size at 2 million cattle heads, or the equivalent of 6.85% of total U.S. beef production. Texas has proven itself to be such a successful beef cattle producer, that nowhere else in the U.S. can compete on a similar scale. What Kind Of Beef Is Produced In The US? Dairy cows on sunny pasture. - Maryna_Kostiuk/Shutterstock Cattle in the U.S. are generally divided into beef and dairy. The latter is the group your Longhorns and Herefords fall into. They're grown specifically for meat, and -- as you may have already guessed -- they make up for a huge portion of the beef produced in America. The most popular cattle breed in this group is one that you've probably seen plenty of times in the beef aisle at your local grocer: Black Angus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to AGDaily, there are currently more than 330,000 heads of Black Angus in the U.S. Considering how each one is often marketed with a live weight of over 1,000 pounds, you can see by doing the math yourself that it's a lot of beef -- and we haven't even gotten to the other breeds like Charolais or Hereford. But one thing that many people probably don't know about the cattle industry in the U.S. is that, outside of these breeds, a not-insignificant portion of our beef supply comes from dairy cows, as well. Although they're reared for their milk first and foremost, breeds like Holstein and Ayrshire can't keep on producing milk forever. At around four to five years of age, they are considered spent. In most cases, they'd be culled, but many farms now send their retired dairy cows to slaughterhouses to be turned into ground beef (pricier cuts like steaks are a whole lot better coming from beef cattle). That's how a surprising statistic you probably have never heard of exists: Up to 20% of the beef produced in the U.S. is from dairy cows. Read the original article on Tasting Table. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The Montgomery County Animal Resource Center is asking for the publics help after reaching shelter capacity. Photo/Montgomery County, Ohio According to the ARC, over 100 animals are currently residing at the shelter, plus receiving more daily. The shelter said the facility was not meant to handle the current amount of animals in its care. While ARC does not euthanize for space, the current number of dogs puts a significant strain on its resources, space and staff, said ARC. To continue providing the level of care and attention each dog deservesand to remain ready for incoming strays and urgent casestheyre asking the community to step up and help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Voting open to bring back 1 previous USPS stamp in 2026 Individuals are being asked to seriously consider adopting or fostering an animal at the ARC. Amy Bohardt, director of ARC, said the organization wants to help the animals that enter the facility find their fur-ever home. Were committed to helping the dogs that come through our door, said Bohardt. But we need help from the community to make space for those who still need us. Every adoption or foster home makes an immediate and real impact. If you have a missing pet, you should contact the shelter to verify if it has been taken into the facility. ARC Phone ARC Address ARC Website 937-898-4457 6790 Webster St., Dayton mcanimals.org Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. County officials in Pennsylvania are getting together this week for an annual conference taking place in our own county this year. The PA State Association of County Controllers is hosting its annual controllers conference at the Bayfront Convention Center this week. PA Game Commission releases 2025 Sunday hunting days Officials from over 20 different counties around the state came to Eries bayfront for an opportunity to network and learn more about topics relating to the responsibilities of controllers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Erie County Controller said his main focus this week is learning about pension plans, and how to balance them without increasing taxes. State Street closes, months of construction begin Any conference is always good because you can reestablish those relationships you have with controllers to pick their brain with the issues theyve been dealing with throughout the last year and hopefully come to solutions to fix your own problems back at home, said Kyle Foust, the Erie County Controller. The conference will continue throughout the week until Thursday morning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) The couple that was killed while they were hiking in Arkansas Devils Den State Park on Saturday, reportedly have ties to Bakersfield. Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, were killed while hiking with their two daughters at the park, Arkansas State Police said. Their bodies were found in a remote area of the park along a walking trail, Nexstar affiliate KFTA reports. Manhunt continues for suspect in Arkansas state park killings: What to know Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The children were not hurt in the incident. In a statement Tuesday, the Arkansas Department of Public Safety said Clinton and Cristen died heroes protecting their children. The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult time as they grieve and learn how to navigate this new reality. They ask that if anyone has any information at all that will help the investigation, to please contact the proper authorities immediately. Clinton and Cristen died heroes, protecting their little girls and they deserve justice. They will forever live on in all of our hearts, officials said. Authorities said the Brinks had recently moved to the area from out of state and a Facebook page for Clinton Brink shows he was originally from Bakersfield. Police are looking for the suspect in the double homicide. They said the suspect left the park in a black, four-door sedan that had a license plate covered with tape. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trails at the park remained closed. A GoFundMe account has been created to help pay for funeral expenses and for immediate needs of the Brinks kids. You can donate to the GoFundMe at this link. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News. Jul. 29KINGSTON A man from Scranton charged by Kingston police in his alleged role in scamming a woman out of a large sum of cash was accused this week of a similar offense involving gold bars in Lehigh County. Dharmikkumar J. Sutariya, 25, of Harrison Avenue, has been jailed since his arrest by Kingston police May 22 in being a courier in the scam to pick up $50,000 from a woman in Kingston, according to court records. The Kingston woman reported to police she received an email from Scott's Flowers in New York and upon opening the email, multiple pop-up email messages appeared advising her to contact Microsoft security. When she called the provided phone number, she spoke with a female she believed was a Microsoft security representative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The purported security representative advised the woman she was the victim of an identity theft scam and her identification and bank account was being used on various pornography sites, court records say. The Kingston woman was instructed to withdraw her funds from two banking institutions and her funds would be placed in the Federal Reserve for safe keeping until an investigation was completed. Police in court records say the Kingston woman reported she turned over $201,000 to "Brian Wilson," who was purported to her as an agent with the Federal Trade Commission. Several weeks after giving the fraudulent "Brian Wilson" the large sum of cash, the Kingston woman received a text message that she needed to withdraw her retirement accounts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police in Kingston along with the Pennsylvania State Police set up a sting as the woman was advised "Brian Wilson" would stop by her house to pick up the retirement account funds. After the transaction was made at the curb in front of the woman's house, police stopped and arrested the lone occupant, identified as Sutariya, court records say. Kingston police charged Sutariya with criminal conspiracy to commit theft, criminal attempt to commit theft and criminal use of communication facility. During the investigation by Kingston police, a detective discovered another potential victim residing in Upper Milford Township, Lehigh County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lehigh County District Attorney Gavin P. Holihan on Monday announced Sutariya was allegedly involved in a scam against a 68-year-old woman under similar circumstances. The woman in Upper Milford Township was contacted that her bank account was used to purchase pornography, and was instructed to call the "fraud department" at her bank and the "federal trade commission." Similar to the alleged victim in Kingston, the woman in Upper Milford Township was instructed to withdraw her funds and to retain gold bars for safe keeping to be picked up by a courier, who was identified as Sutariya, according to Holihan. The investigation in Lehigh County alleges Sutariya arrived at the victim's home acting as a courier and was given two gold bars valued at more than $215,400. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "At this point in the ongoing investigation that spans both Lehigh and Luzerne counties, the loss to the victims is in excess of $3 million," according to a news release from Holihan. Sutariya is facing two counts each of theft and criminal conspiracy and one count each of receiving stolen property and criminal use of communication facility in Lehigh County. Sutariya remains jailed at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility for lack of $250,000 bail. Reach Ed Lewis at 570-991-6116 or on Twitter @TLEdLewis. OTTUMWA, Iowa Police in Ottumwa said they arrested a man in connection with a Saturday morning stabbing. Trinity Allen Shafer, 29, of Ottumwa, is charged with Attempt to Commit Murder, Prohibited Acts Methamphetamine, and with two outstanding warrants for Probation Violation and Failure to Appear. He is currently booked at the Wapello County Jail, according to jail records. Trinity Allen Shafer, 29, of Ottumwa. According to the Ottumwa Police Department, officers were dispatched to 1600 Stellar Avenue just before 7:30 a.m. after receiving a report that someone had been stabbed. When they arrived, officers found 20-year-old Marshaun Carlvin, of Ottumwa, with multiple stab wounds. Shafer was nowhere to be seen. Carlvin was treated at two area hospitals before he was released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shafer CriminalComplaintDownload Court documents allege that Shafer and Carlvin got into a physical confrontation because Shafer believed Carlvin was talking to his girlfriend. During the altercation, Shafer pulled out a knife and stabbed the victim three times, including in the right upper arm, front abdomen, and right abdomen, according to the Criminal Complaint. Police alleged Shafer intended to kill Carlvin. Around 2:30 p.m. the following day, officers located Shafer during a traffic stop at 1 Joe Lord Memorial Drive. A Criminal Complaint for the drug charge stated Shafer was a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped for a traffic violation. A police K9 conducted an open-air sniff and alerted to the presence of drugs, said the complaint. Officers searched the vehicle and allegedly found a small baggie containing a crystalline substance inside a backpack that was at Shafers feet. The substance tested positive for methamphetamine via a field test kit, according to the report. Shafer reportedly had multiple convictions for possession of a controlled substance, with at least one being methamphetamine. A Temporary No Contact Order was signed by a judge on Monday and bars Shafer from contacting Carlvin. Shafers Preliminary Hearing is scheduled for Aug. 6 at 10 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. A fisherman in Australia has received a huge fine and lost possession of his boat after a covert operation revealed his unlawful acts, including interfering with crab pots that didnt belong to him. Officers from the Department of Primary Industries Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol used covert surveillance, mangrove cameras and community tips from the Fishwatch hotline to obtain evidence against the suspect between May and July 2024, according to Australian Broadcasting Corp. and the Department of Primary Industries. When authorities searched the mans property, they found the man in possession of the rostrum of a sawfish and commercial gillnets without the required authority. Sawfish are regulated and a protected species in Queensland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man was charged with one count of possessing a regulated fish, six counts of unlawful interference with fishing apparatus and three counts of failing to comply with a regulated fishing apparatus declaration. As a result, the Cairns fisherman was fined $12,000 and forced to give up his boat, which will be destroyed due to its condition. This penalty sends a strong message: dont tamper with other peoples gear, a fisheries spokesperson told ABC. Fish responsibly, follow the rules, and enjoy your time on the water. The investigation was part of an ongoing effort to crack down on gear interference, which is a growing concern within the recreational fishing community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This mans poor decision to touch and interfere with other peoples crab pots has cost him $12,000 and his boat, QBFP Manager Gregory Bowness said. Interfering with crab pots that dont belong to you is a serious offense under the Fisheries Act 1994. This includes pulling a pot out of the water even if you do not remove any crabs. These are serious offenses, and I hope this prosecution outcome will serve as the $12,000 reminder to all Queenslanders to make the lawful choices in and around our waterways." This article originally appeared on For The Win: Fisherman receives huge fine, loses boat for unlawful activities The last year or so has torn holes through Diane Benson's life literally. Benson has had trouble with the roof of her home in east Claremore since the May 2024 tornado roared in. She said the winds lifted shingles off her roof, and Samaritan's Purse volunteers soon patched it. But on May 24 this year almost exactly one year later another storm hit Benson's house. She said the damage ended up being much worse than what the tornado had caused. The storm punched little circles in the roof's wood, letting rain seep in and eat away at its integrity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We had severe high winds, 70 mile-an-hour winds, and I woke up at about 5 in the morning to hearing the shingles and stuff rip off and water pouring in my bedroom," Benson said. Benson said this period taxed her mentally and emotionally. She said she had been diagnosed earlier in life with post traumatic stress disorder and was diagnosed with PTSD again after the tornado. She said she's also been battling deep depression. But on July 22, Benson was brimming with nervous excitement. Her pastor and a group of contractors had come to fix her roof for free. "It's very calming," Benson said. "I feel very loved by the community." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Benson is one of Pastor Tim McHugh's congregants at Grace United Methodist Church in Claremore. McHugh is also a member of Claremore & Rogers County Disaster Assistance, the long-term disaster recovery group first formed to provide immediate assistance after the tornado. McHugh had known about Benson's roof damage since last year's tornado. Benson had not yet joined his church; they met at the multiagency resource center at Claremore Expo Center last June. He hooked her up with a generator. "Then she started coming to church more and more, and she joined the church," McHugh said. "Then just about when the heavy storms hit a few months back, she mentioned to me that her roof that was destroyed during our tornado got more destroyed because of winds." CRCDA helped storm victims directly with donated funds and local contractors in the months after the tornado. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McHugh said now, the group meets monthly and receives reports without names from case manager Catholic Charities. The members discuss how they can help the client, and they can call on a long list of contractors through the Oklahoma Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster network. McHugh brought Benson's case to the group, whose members were familiar with her because Catholic Charities had processed her Federal Emergency Management Agency case after FEMA closed out its mission in Rogers County. He said he got the money for the roof repair from the United Methodist Church instead of drawing on CRCDA funds. In late June, McHugh told Benson he'd found a way to get her roof fixed. "I got in the car and cried," Benson said. "I had no clue he was part of it, that he was working on it. I had just asked for prayer." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The morning of July 22, McHugh and workers from Broken Arrow-based PROOF Construction LLC arrived at her home. By sundown, every shingle was in its place. McHugh said anyone who is still dealing with the aftermath of the May tornado or another storm may contact his church at 918-923-2062 or visit at 9472 Old State Highway 20. They may also contact CRCDA at 918-855-5346 or donate funds for recovery projects at tinyurl.com/kn2nnrys. "With everything that's going on in the world around us the chaos and all that, tragedy after tragedy I think it's good to know there's still hope," McHugh said. "There's still resources out there, still people who are willing to help." Benson said this episode of her life has strengthened her faith; she said it's what got her through. "I couldn't have done this without God and the church, you know," Benson said. "I've done a lot of praying on it. I truly believed that God would take care of it." (Bloomberg) -- United Parcel Service Inc. shares tumbled after the company said economic volatility continues to roil its operations, underscoring the challenges for the couriers effort to reconfigure its network and revitalize its business. Most Read from Bloomberg The company declined to provide a revenue or operating profit forecast for the full year as it reported earnings for the most recent quarter, citing broader macroeconomic uncertainty. Among the challenges UPS called out were US trade policies slashing shipping volumes from China its most profitable trade route and sluggish progress in reducing the size of its workforce. Its the second quarter this year in which UPS declined to provide investors an updated sales and profit forecast. Although many companies suspended guidance early this year due to volatility stemming from President Donald Trumps trade policies, a number of those have since restored more recently. Sentiment was decidedly negative prior to Tuesdays earnings report, wrote JPMorgan analyst Brian Ossenbeck. The results and lack of guidance will do little to change that at this point. UPS shares fell as much as 10% as of 11:46 a.m. in New York, the most intraday since Jan. 30. The stock had declined 19% this year through Mondays close, while the S&P 500 Index gained 8.6%. The Atlanta-based courier is struggling to recapture the volume it saw during the early years of the pandemic, when consumers turned to online shopping while stuck at home. The comedown, exacerbated for UPS by the threat of a union strike that sent some customers to rival firms, has proven stubborn thanks to weak demand across the economy. The company is also grappling with deep-rooted issues such as too much unprofitable volume and high costs. The overall US economy demonstrated continued resilience, but our sector, specifically the US small package market, was unfavorably impacted by US consumer sentiment that was near historic lows, Chief Executive Officer Carol Tome said on a conference call to discuss quarterly results. The company did offer limited predictions around capital expenditures and dividend payments in 2025, and said it still expects to save $3.5 billion from its ongoing turnaround plan. Adjusted earnings in the second quarter were $1.55 a share, UPS said in a statement, narrowly missing the $1.56 average of analyst estimates compiled by Bloomberg. Package revenue of $14.08 billion was better than expected. Multiple Valley agencies were working to rescue an unresponsive man trapped in a hole at a Goodyear construction site, according to the Goodyear Fire Department. A call came in around 1:10 p.m. July 28 about the worker who was stuck in a 6- to 7-foot hole near 183rd Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road, according to Glendale Fire Department spokesperson Ruben Real. Real was not able to confirm if the man had died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Due to the complexity of the scene and safety concerns, we have not yet made physical contact with the individual involved," Real said. The Fire Department responded within six minutes of receiving the call, Real said. The Goodyear Police Department, Phoenix Fire Department's technical rescue team, APS and Southwest Gas workers were also on hand to help with the rescue. As crews kept digging, more dirt got inside the hole, according to Real. After 30 minutes, workers paused, and it turned from a rescue to a recovery, Real said. Gas, water and communication lines below the hole made the process difficult, according to Real. Gas and water lines were either diverted or shut off, Real said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The construction site was near single-family homes being built, but the type of construction the man was working on at the time of the accident was not known, Real said. (This story has been updated to add a video.) This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Crews work to recover Goodyear construction worker trapped in hole This is a developing story. ABC4 will update this post as new information becomes available. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) Crews responded to a structure fire at 2084 West, 2670 North in Salt Lake City on Monday, July 28th. According to the Salt Lake City Fire Department, there was a working structure fire in Salt Lake City at 2084 West and 2670 North. They noted that traffic in the area may be affected. Officials with the Salt Lake City Fire Department noted that the fire started in a small shed. Initially, SLCFD were concerned that the fire could spread quickly, due to the amount of vegetation. Fortunately, the vegetation near the fire was mowed down and the residents had taken defensible measures to protect against wildfires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Had they not taken some advice and mowed this stuff down as they have done, we couldve had a completely different scenario, Captain Jepperson, with the SLCFD, said. Despite the fire starting in a grassy area and high winds, crews were able to get it under control, before it spread to nearby homes. Fire crews are reportedly still on scene and are mopping up. Additionally, nearby areas may see some residual smoke. Captain Jepperson also wanted to remind the public of the importance of preparing their property. Their Ready, Set, Go plan details how individuals should defend against wildfires, including by clearing out grass and vegetation, and clear any potential fuel sources. At this time, the cause of the fire has not been determined. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) The temperature is rising, and some believe the crime rate is going up, along with it. I took that theory to some experts to find out if its true. The Dean of the Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at Augusta University says there are two theories about an increase in crime during the summer. Ones the heat aggression theory that we get hot, we get irritated, were more likely to get aggressive, said Kim Davies, Dean of Pamplin College and Sociology Professor, Augusta University. And theres certainly research to suggest thats the case. The other idea is the routine activates theory and were just outside more. If you take especially teenagers doing crime. Theyre more likely to be outside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Major Robbie Silas with the Richmond County Sheriffs Office told me he also believes the uptick in crime is because of children being out of school and more people are out and about. Once school gets out, we see our juvenile crimes progress a little bit, and our autos, burglaries, said Major Robbie Silas, Special Operations, RCSO. We also see domestic violence because thats when you have all your family gatherings during the summer. While there is research that heat can cause people to be more aggressive, Davies says leans toward the routine activitys theory. She says there are more opportunities during the summer for crime. One thing you have to think about is correlation and how it works. We know that when ice cream sales go up, homicide goes up, violent crimes go up. You have to think about it, when its hotter outside people eat more ice cream, people also do crimes. So, we have to be careful the conclusions we draw and make sure we are doing science, said Davies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF. Felonies The following people were booked into the Lee County-Tupelo Adult Jail in connection with felony charges ending Monday at 11 a.m. Travis Allen Best, 34, of Saltillo, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, capias for four counts of sale of methamphetamine. Michael Vincent Crump, 40, of Belden, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, possession of a Schedule II drug, driving with a suspended license, resisting arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement David Lee Dunn, 43, of Guntown, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, capias of two counts of sale of methamphetamine. Antavious Derayle Gray, 22, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Tupelo Police Department, possession of a firearm by a felon. Lamarcus A. Heard, 20, of Shannon, was arrested by the Tupelo Police Department, shooting into a motor vehicle. Casey Ash Irwin, 42, of Mooreville, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, sale of methamphetamine, driving with a suspended license, switched tag, trespassing. Jaden Martin, 20, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Tupelo Police Department, shooting into a motor vehicle, improper equipment, possession of marijuana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zachary Keaton Martin, 29, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, sale of methamphetamine, driving with a suspended license, possession of marijuana in a motor vehicle. Ashley Nicole Marquez, 36, of Verona, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, sale of methamphetamine, sale of fentanyl, sale of a counterfeit substance, two counts of trafficking fentanyl. Tosha M. Matthews, 50, of Plantersville, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, three counts of the sale of methamphetamine. Austin Morrison, 21, of Saltillo, was arrested by the Saltillo Police Department, DUI-third offense, driving with a suspended license reckless driving no drivers license, no insurance, disorderly conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donald Ray Morgan, 34, of Beebee, Arkansas, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, capias for possession of methamphetamine. William Patrick Pannell, 38, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, violation of probation. Terry C. Roberts, 52, of Baldwyn, was arrested by the Tupelo Police Department, grand larceny, contempt of court, no drivers license. Jeffrey Leon Shack, 48, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, capias for possession of cocaine. Carl Wayne Smith, 40, of Shannon, was arrested by the Mississippi Highway Patrol, possession of methamphetamine, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rhian A. Smith, 27, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, embezzlement. Jonathan Andrew Trim, 53, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Mississippi Department of Corrections, violation of probation. Adrian Vaca, 21, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Tupelo Police Department, tampering with evidence, obstructing a city street, suspended drivers license. Havana Maria Wade, 62, of Guntown, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, receiving stolen property. Austin Wayne Wallar, 28, of Pontotoc, was arrested by the Mississippi Department of Corrections, violation of probation. Allen Maurice Zinn, 33, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, possession of a firearm by a felon, violation of post-release supervision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lee County Sheriffs Office The following reports were filed Monday by the Lee County Sheriffs Office. A Highway 371, Tupelo, woman said three stray dogs were aggressive and run up and try to jump on her when she goes outside. She is scared they might bite her or someone else. When the deputy arrived, the dogs were not aggressive but playful. The deputy gave her the number of a rescue group that might pick up the animals. She refused and said she would go to justice court to try to get a pickup order signed by a judge. A North Gate, Saltillo, woman said she heard multiple gunshots after 10 p.m. She said she heard three or four gunshots at two different tines. She was concerned about her safety and that of the neighbors. Deputies rode through the area but had no contact with the possible shooters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A woman said she was working security at a County Road 154, Shannon, address around 1 a.m. on Saturday when several women got into a fight. Security was able to break up the altercation and all the parties left before law enforcement arrived. A Mitchell Road, Tupelo, woman walked outside to her car and discovered it was damaged. There were stab marks to the front bumper. The left front tire had similar marks but was not punctured. She thinks it might have been a neighbor because she complained when they blocked the walking path with their car. But she cant be sure they are responsible. A County Road 506, Shannon, woman said a white male driving a tan Suburban was driving all over the road in front of her around 3 p.m. At one point, he stopped in the middle of the road and got out to check the vehicle. She last saw the SUV in the middle of the road near her house. Deputies responded to the area but did not find the suspect vehicle. The Highway 178, Mooreville, Dollar General reported an unknown white female came in the store empty-handed, selected items from off the shelves of the store. She then walked to the counter, presented a receipt and asked for a refund. The clerk said some of the items wouldnt return, so the suspect left with them. The clerk did not realize what had happened until after they reviewed the security cameras. Anyone with information on any of these reports is urged to call the Lee County Sheriff's Office at 841-9041, the Tupelo Police Department at 841-6491 or Crime Stoppers of Northeast Mississippi at (800) 773-TIPS or download the P3 Tip App and leave an anonymous tip that way. Iran has been one of the most vocal countries in opposing U.S. hegemony and welcoming the rise of China. It is usually lumped together in an authoritarian axis along with China, Russia and North Korea. Nevertheless, when Iran was overwhelmed by the combined airpower of Israel and the United States in mid-June, Beijing not only remained quiet, but even signaled its disapproval of Tehrans threats to block the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic. Though the Israel-Iran conflict ended without further escalation, it underscored the fact that the narratives declaring the rise of a new Chinese-led global order and Beijings willingness to replace the U.S. as global hegemon are for now wildly premature. Those narratives have gathered steam since U.S. President Donald Trump returned to the White House seemingly intent on upending the last remnants of the liberal international order. But they are more a projection of Cold War-era paradigms onto todays world than a reflection of what China has in mind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the Cold War, the U.S. and Soviet Union competed for global primacy by coordinating a network of allies, backing them and even taking part in costly military interventions to sustain their spheres of influence. China has a different approach, acting not as a protector of its partner states, but as an enabler of their options. To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter. China has contributed to the rise of a multipolar globalization by providing economic and technological alternatives that reduce Western leverage. Its strength relies more on the long-term impact of the shifts in global power it has helped catalyze, rather than on Beijings ability or willingness to take immediate action to assist a partner or exercise leadership on the geopolitical stage. This approach allows Beijing to contribute to and benefit from those shifts, without bearing the full costs of providing alternative leadership. Nevertheless, Chinas strategy has run up against important limits when what friendly governments desperately need is not long-term investments but help from a protector capable of guaranteeing their immediate security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recent events in the Middle East illustrate both the advantages and limits of Chinas enabler strategy. The fact that Beijing is a major purchaser of Middle Eastern oil has led many analysts to mistakenly assume that China has the same geopolitical leverage as countries that can project military strength in the region, like the U.S. and to a lesser degree Russia. But thats not the case. Over the past 15 years in Syria, for example, China backed the government of former dictator Bashar al-Assad through United Nations Security Council vetoes and limited economic engagement, while aligning rhetorically with Russia and Iran in support of Damascus. In return, Syria supported Chinas positions in international forums. But Chinas economic investments in Syria, including participation in reconstruction projects and energy sector development, proved irrelevant when it came to the Assad regimes survival. In December 2024, when large sections of Syrias armed forces began to desert him, Beijing offered Assad rhetorical support, leading some observers to erroneously believe China was willing to step up its role in the conflict. However, China offered no practical assistance to prevent Assads ouster just days later. By March 2025, Beijing had already moved on and was trying to normalize relations with the new Syrian government. Chinas perceived inaction in moments of crisis does have an impact on its international image. And its non-interventionist approach carries costs and limitations as well. That contrasted with Russias costly intervention in Syria from 2015 onward, which ultimately also failed to save Assad. To a certain extent, that is the model of Russia and Chinas geopolitical cooperation, with Moscow providing the military muscle that Beijing lacks, while Beijing brings the cash. However, when Russia became entangled in the war in Ukraine, China did not even consider stepping up its role in Syria, which would have been a clear sign of Beijing adopting a new global profile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like Moscow, Beijing might simply have thought that Assad was beyond saving. But Assads downfall raises particular concerns for China, as it can be traced back to the so-called Arab Spring and the wave of regime changes those uprisings unleashed throughout the Arab world. Beijing has always seen those revolts and color revolutions in general as driven by foreign forcesnamely the U.S., purportedly operating through a global network of media and NGOs. China considers any success for these popular uprisings a dangerous precedent and a threat to its own political stability, as demonstrated by the lengths to which it goes to portray the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement as the product of hostile foreign forces. For these reasons, Beijing had reasons to prefer that Assad remain in power, but China lacked both the will and the tools to help him. That underscores the fact that, while Chinas influence is important in normal times, it lacks the coercive capacity to bail out an ally during moments of political and security crises. Chinas involvement in Iran has been much greater compared to Syria. China is Irans top oil buyer, despite Western sanctions. Beijing has provided Tehran with an economic lifeline against Western pressure, including access to alternative markets and financial mechanisms. In addition, China has supplied Iran with dual-use technology that has enabled Tehran and its proxies like the Houthis to develop highly capable military drones. More importantly, China has shepherded Iran into two multilateral groupings as a full member: the Shanghai Cooperation Organization regional security bloc and the BRICS. But for all that support, in Irans greatest security crisis since its war with Iraq in the 1980s, China responded by following its habitual playbook: diplomatic statements condemning Israeli actions, affirmations of Irans sovereignty and vague calls for peaceful resolution of the conflict. Only after the ceasefire was reached between Israel and Iran did China reportedly provided Iran with surface-to-air missile batteries in exchange for oil. Again, although that may help Iran in the event of a return to hostilities with Israel, it is a far cry from the kind of military aid the U.S. has provided to Ukraine, for example, in its war against Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinas behavior in the Middle East fits into a broader pattern around the world. For years, China has been one of the key enablers of the Cuban government, for instance, providing the country with technology, like its internet infrastructure, as well as limited loans and investment. However, when Cuba faced protests at the end of the pandemic due to shortages of food and medicine, threatening the communist regimes survival, Beijing denounced the U.S. blockade, but showed no willingness to offer the kinds of aid that would relieve the pressure on Havana. Another illustrative example is Pakistan, which could be the country most clearly under Chinas protective umbrella. It played a key early role in Beijings Belt and Road Initiative and is a major purchaser of big-ticket Chinese arms platforms. However, in Pakistans recent exchange of fire with India, China took a relatively hands-off position. Beijing did express support for Islamabad and shared vital intelligence with its Pakistani counterparts. And while it remains unclear how reliable the after-action reports were, Pakistan reportedly downed a number of Indian air force jets using Chinese-made Chengdu J-10C fighters. But Beijing never signaled any willingness to become directly involved in the conflict in order to deter Indian escalation, nor did it play any role in the truce negotiations between the two sides. In fairness, China has never suggested it would intervene to protect its partners, let alone promise to do so. And in all of these cases, the diplomatic and economic risks and costs of any intervention would have far outweighed any potential benefits. But Chinas perceived inaction in moments of crisis does have an impact on its international image. And its non-interventionist approach carries costs and limitations as well. Friendlier governments that fall may be replaced by less friendly ones. And with countries increasingly forced to choose between close economic relations with the U.S. or China, or else weighing their options for partnerships in key sectors like next-generation tech, some may consider Washington to be the better option due to the benefits it offers with regard to regime survival. The Gulf states are a prominent example, despite China now being their principal oil buyer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinas approach also limits the degree to which it can take advantage of short-term changes in the diplomatic landscape. For example, in theory, Trumps trade policies since returning to office should have created opportunities for China to expand its influence. Yet Beijings response has been sluggish and even aloof. It has offered some cosmetic measures such as eliminating tariffs on African imports, but that mostly applies to commodities that China needs, while failing to offer more meaningful benefits, whether to developing economies or the European Union. Chinas priority remains protecting its own economic interests and avoiding entanglements that could jeopardize its long-term strategic objectives, including maintaining access to global markets and technology. But even the most carefully crafted long-term planning means little if a country is incapable of seizing unexpected opportunities that present themselves along the way. At times of crisis, Beijings reluctance to take on diplomatic obligations, engage in military interventions or make economic sacrifices to secure its partners interests highlights the limits of translating economic influence into geopolitical power. At any other moment, this would offer a clear advantage to the U.S., whose willingness to support allies with military action is an important complement to economic statecraft in its efforts to counter China. But given Trumps hostility to alliances and a U.S. public keen on avoiding excessive military engagements, Chinas preference for economic traction over political action suggests that the world may be entering a period in which no single power is willing to bear the full costs of global leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Miquel Vila is a consultant and analyst specializing in geoeconomics, AI infrastructure, supply chains and China. He is the executive director of the Catalonia Global Institute and a nonresident fellow at the Orion Policy Institute. Follow him on Twitter at @miquelvilam. The post When Crisis Hits, China Keeps Leaving Its Partners High and Dry appeared first on World Politics Review. GALLUP, N.M. (KRQE) The Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project is supposed to pipe Gallup and Navajo Nation communities clean water for decades to come, but with the United States Bureau of Reclamation hitting a $1.5 billion spending cap, the project is now at risk of a standstill, with more time and money needed to finish it. Were looking at roughly a 600 million dollar funding gap, so we need congressional help to finish this project, said Bert Deming, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. Vasquez: Uncertainty over trade, tariffs cost jobs, hurt economy The project is now estimated at a $2.2 billion cost. New Mexicos federal lawmakers introduced legislation in February, aimed at lifting the spending cap and extending the project timeline, but Congress hasnt taken it up yet.Once weve expended the amount of money that has been in the budget for the Bureau of Reclamation, the project comes to a halt. And then well be waiting how many more years to start being funded to continue construction, said Gallup City Manager Frank Chiapetti, Gallup City Manager. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The federal bill would also ensure that Gallup doesnt face the potential of up to $100 million more in costs to finish their part of the project. Those are costs the city said it simply cant afford. Were hoping his bill will go through because that takes care of the money and Gallups financial situation all at once, said Chiapetti. If funding remains on track, the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project is now expected to open in full by the end of 2029, supplying water across 300 miles of pipeline. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Firebrand Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, privately trashed her far-left colleagues Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., accusing them of not being team players and going on tour simply to promote themselves. In May, as Crockett was eyeing a bid to become the senior Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, she met with fellow Democrat, Oregon Rep. Maxine Dexter. During the meeting, Crockett was asked about her relationship with Ocasio-Cortez, according to a new profile in The Atlantic. Dexter had concerns that Crockett could have conflicts with party leadership, much like Ocasio-Cortez did when she first came to Congress. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, slammed AOC in a private meeting, according to a new profile in The Atlantic. Jasmine Crockett Surprises Reporter With Claim Republicans 'Tell Me How Much They Like Me' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Texas lawmaker replied that, unlike AOC, she did not want to "burn it down" and that she was more committed to working to advance the Democratic Party as a whole. She pointed to AOC and Sanders "Fighting Oligarchy Tour" as a "good idea," but one that ultimately was constructed just to boost the brands of the two lawmakers. AOC and Sanders have been crisscrossing the country on the tour, bringing their left-wing message to crowds of thousands. Read On The Fox News App "[The tour] kind of makes people be like, Oh, its about them, right? Instead of the team," Crockett said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crockett ultimately withdrew from the race for the Oversight Committee spot after comments she made regarding supporting a potential Trump impeachment sent shockwaves through swing-district Democrats. Crockett has a history of making insulting comments about Republicans and Trump. She was accused of mocking wheelchair-bound Texas Gov. Greg Abbott as "Governor Hot Wheels" in March. Crockett accused Sanders and AOC of drawing attention to themselves with their "Fighting Oligarchy" tour. Click Here For More Coverage Of Media And Culture "We in these hot a-- Texas streets, honey. Yall know we got Governor Hot Wheels down there, come on now! And the only thing hot about him is that he is a hot a-- mess, honey!," she said at a March Human Rights Campaign event in Los Angeles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crockett infamously got into a nasty fight with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., which featured both lawmakers lobbing schoolyard-level insults. The shouting match began when Greene insulted Crocketts "fake eyelashes." Things only devolved from there, with the Texas Democrat launching into a verbal assault about Greenes "bleach-blond, bad-built, butch body." Crockett went on to sell merchandise based around the insults. Crockett, Ocasio-Cortez and Sanders did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Original article source: Crockett criticizes AOC and Bernie Sanders' 'Fighting Oligarchy' tour for making it about themselves CROCKETT, Texas (KETK) A woman in Crockett who was accused in May of causing a mans death after giving him counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl has been placed under custody, according to the Crockett Police Department. On May 21, the Crockett Police Department said that they received reports of an unresponsive man and went to the persons apartment on Sallas Street at around 11 p.m. Once on the scene, officers, along with Houston County EMS, discovered the individual had died, which was believed to be caused by a drug overdose. Train, Milk tanker crash causes traffic delays in Sulphur Springs Photo of Kimberlee Ann Sherman courtesy of Houston County Jail Following the victims death, authorities discovered that he had bought the pills from Kimberlee Ann Sherman of Crockett. On May 22, Sherman was arrested and charged with delivery of a controlled substance. She posted a $25,000 bond and was released the following day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the assistance of the US Marshals Service, the Crockett Police Department took Sherman into custody on Monday based on a murder warrant issued by a judge. Sherman is currently being held in Houston County Jail, and her bond has been set at $250,000. Shermans arrest is the first fentanyl murder related arrest in Crockett, which comes after Governor Abbott signed House Bill 6 into law, which allows for enhanced penalties, including murder charges, if a victims death is directly linked to the distribution of fentanyl. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. Crooked Media, the company behind the Pod Save America podcast hosted by four former Obama Administration staffers, announced on Tuesday it will be hosting its first annual two-day convention in Washington, D.C., in November. The new event, dubbed Crooked Con, is for anyone interested in the future of the Democratic Party, rebuilding and taking America back from the authoritarian freaks currently running things, per a press release. More from TheWrap Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crooked Con speakers and sponsors will be announced at a later date, the company noted. The event will start on Nov. 6 with a live recording of Pod Save America at the Warner Theatre before continuing the next day at The Wharf with panels and other conversations. For the unfamiliar, Pod Save America is hosted by Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Tommy Vietor and Dan Pfeiffer all of whom worked in The White House during President Obamas time in office. The ex-Obama staffers launched PSA as a liberal political show in early 2017, following a brief stint hosting a similar show on Bill Simmons The Ringer network. Rabid fans will pay between $37 to $234 to see the live recording of their show, according to tickets listed on Ticketmaster. Tickets to see the panels on Nov. 7 cost $164.99. Questions that panelists will attempt to answer include: Does the Democratic Party Stand a Chance? and How Can Progressives Win the Attention War? according to Crookeds announcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those questions are timely, considering the Democratic Party just hit its lowest approval rating in 35 years, according to a new Wall Street Journal poll. The post Crooked Media Launches 2-Day Convention to Fight Authoritarian Freaks appeared first on TheWrap. Cruise lines could help the Navy with ship maintenance issues, President Trump's pick for chief of naval operations said. The Navy's been examining what can be learned from cruise lines for ship maintenance for years. The service could adopt some strategies from these companies, but there are challenges. The US Navy faces significant problems keeping its ships ready to sail. President Donald Trump's pick for top admiral says that he is looking to cruise lines for ideas. The Navy has long been interested in what it can learn from cruise lines, like how to stick to planned maintenance schedules, but the sea service faces challenges in adopting those lessons and ensuring readiness, naval affairs experts says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Adm. Daryl Caudle, Trump's nominee for chief of naval operations, told the US Senate Armed Services Committee that the Navy needed to fix how it conducted ship maintenance. "And learning from the best in the world," he said, referencing some cruise ship companies, "certainly should be on the table." He noted that during Miami Fleet Week earlier this year, he'd met with executives from Norwegian Cruise Line, and that the Navy was working with Carnival Cruise Line on the issue. Last fall, Caudle said during the Fleet Maintenance & Modernization Symposium that borrowing industry practices was vital, explaining that the Navy is "looking across industries like shipping and cruise lines for ideas and best practices to improve maintenance and modernization by the professionals that are financially motivated for their business survival." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Caudle and other Navy officials have acknowledged differences between fixing military vessels and cruise ships, such as various classes of ships and capabilities, the service is taking steps to see what practices are applicable and how they can be implemented in order to fix maintenance woes. Chronic maintenance problems The US Navy has been more frequently conducting dual carrier operations in the Indo-Pacific region. Photo by Specialist 3rd Class Jake Greenberg/U.S. Navy via Getty Images The Navy has been dealing with issues tied to regularly scheduled maintenance for its ships for decades. These range from shipyard backlogs and limited dry dock availability at a small number of shipyards to scheduling errors, workforce shortages, lack of clear and consistent data, and more repair work being needed than expected. Earlier this year, the US Government Accountability Office, a watchdog agency, tracked many of these persistent issues, including shortages of spare parts and materials. Previously, the GAO assessed that between the 2015 and 2020 fiscal years, 75% of planned maintenance availabilities were delayed. Many of these problems run concurrently with larger Navy shipbuilding problems and have raised questions in Washington, the service, and across experts and observers about whether the Navy can adequately maintain its force while shipbuilding delays slow the process of acquiring new ones. And then there's the big question about what that could mean in a high-end fight against an adversarial power like China. Cruise lines could have some answers The Carnival Radiance cruise ship at Avalon harbor on May 19, 2023 in Avalon, California. AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images The Navy has acknowledged that it could take a page or two from some of the world's biggest commercial cruise lines. In 2019, then-Secretary of the Navy Richard Spencer revealed that Navy personnel "spent some time with Carnival Cruise Line," saying he was impressed that "they turn a 700-foot floating hotel on a maintenance avail around in 28 days," while it can take the Navy months, even years to turn some ships around. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And earlier this year, prior to his retirement, Rear. Adm. William Greene said that the Navy was partnering with cruise lines to develop better maintenance skills. The Navy is eager to get its surge readiness rates up to 80% by 2027. The Navy could learn lessons in planning and scheduling from cruise companies, as well as others on reducing dry dock wait times and having clearer pictures of the work that vessels will require before the ships get to the yard. The key approach for cruise lines is sticking to consistent and planned schedules. "The ships go into refits and overhaul at specified periodicities, and the condition of the ship is predictable because the operational profile is well known," Bryan Clark, a retired Navy submarine officer and defense expert at the Hudson Institute, told Business Insider. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clark said there is more the Navy can do to stick with planned maintenance schedules and push back against changes. Alternative ways to meet operational needs are also an option. The Navy can also "ensure the work package reflects assessments done on the ship before it enters the maintenance period," he added, so that unforeseen problems with the vessel don't arise while it's being worked on. Challenges in adoption tk US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Mekhi Manson The Navy's schedules change for a number of reasons including where the fleet needs to be deployed around the world, what specific classes of vessels and capabilities need to be available, and how those requirements fit with vessels that are already undergoing maintenance. Similarly, the condition of Navy ships isn't as well known or predictable as cruise ships. There could be specific problems related to a ship's systems or weapons, and there are then processes for those who are specifically authorized to fix that. One big issue facing Navy maintenance is the limits on the "right to repair" for sailors at sea. During his confirmation hearing, Caudle said sailors aboard Navy vessels needed better training and authorization to repair equipment while underway, saying, "We can't rely on a contractor's permission to do maintenance in the middle of the ocean." That said, the issues run much deeper for the Navy. Read the original article on Business Insider By Jonathan Stempel (Reuters) -VeriSign shares fell on Tuesday after Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway sold nearly one-third of its stake in the internet infrastructure and domain name registry company for $1.23 billion. Berkshire had been VeriSign's largest shareholder before selling 4.3 million shares at $285 each on Monday, a 6.9% discount to Monday's closing price. Shares of VeriSign fell more than 7% in early trading on Tuesday. The sale reduced Berkshire's ownership stake in the Reston, Virginia-based company to 9.6% from 14.2%. Another 515,032 shares may be sold to meet demand. Berkshire's remaining holdings are subject to a 365-day lock-up agreement. VeriSign said the sale was intended to reduce Berkshire's stake to below 10%, a threshold that triggers regulatory obligations. Berkshire did not respond to a request for comment. Buffett's company began investing in VeriSign in 2012, and prior to the sale owned nearly 13.3 million shares worth about $4.07 billion. VeriSign shares had risen more than six-fold since Berkshire began buying. Berkshire's smaller investments in technology companies have often been spearheaded by Buffett's portfolio managers, Todd Combs and Ted Weschler. Baird Equity Research analyst Rob Oliver, who rates VeriSign "outperform," wrote that the sale "could drive near-term weakness and questions around Berkshire's ultimate intentions with the stock. We continue to view the story as all about domain growth, which is strong and improving." Berkshire ended March with $347.7 billion of cash, and will update that total when it releases second-quarter results on Saturday. Buffett, 94, has run the Omaha, Nebraska-based conglomerate since 1965. Berkshire also owns close to 200 businesses including the BNSF railroad and Geico car insurance, and stocks such as Apple and American Express. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New YorkEditing by Marguerita Choy) (COLORADO) A year after lane filtering was legalized in Colorado, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) is encouraging motorcyclists to evaluate each unique traffic situation and consider their safety above all else, with a reminder of when it is safe to proceed. The top benefit of lane filtering is to reduce the likelihood of riders being struck from behind while traffic is stopped; however, we dont want riders to expose themselves to a new risk by filtering when it is simply not safe to do so, explained Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. According to CSP, it is safe to filter when: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A rider feels in control of the motorcycle and can filter in a safe environment. All surrounding vehicles are at a complete stop. The lane is wide enough to accommodate both the motorcycle and the vehicle being passed. The rider has clear sight lines. CSP states that it is not safe to filter when: The rider doesnt feel confident or safe. The surrounding vehicles traveling in the same direction as the rider are still moving. Drivers traveling in the same direction are behaving erratically or aggressively. The lanes are too narrow to accommodate both the rider and the vehicle. Weather conditions are poor, or visibility is reduced by heavy rain, snow, or fog. Large vehicles are in the lane ahead, creating large blind spots. We always recommend riders, regardless of how many years theyve been on a motorcycle, to take a skills refresher course like those offered by MOST, said Packard. Learn the new laws and practice skills in a controlled environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to CSP, riders should always use their signals to alert drivers that they are about to filter and should be prepared to stop if necessary. Staying focused and being aware of your surroundings is key to keeping yourself safe, said Packard. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. A Connecticut psychiatrist already charged with sexual assault has been arrested on additional charges and is now accused in separate incidents, police said. Dr. Lazaro Pomeraniec of Westport was arrested Monday and charged with two counts of fourth-degree sexual assault, according to Sgt. Jenna Wellington of the Fairfield Police Department. Wellington said the charges stem from two separate alleged incidents involving patients under Pomeraniecs care. One of them was already under investigation when he was arrested on June 30 and charged with one count of fourth-degree sexual assault, according to Wellington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following his arrest in June, Pomeraniec agreed to turn over his license to practice psychiatry, Wellington said. Pomeraniec posted $200,000 bond following his arrest this week and is scheduled to face a judge on Aug. 8. The Fairfield Police Department takes all allegations of sexual misconduct seriously and remains committed to investigating such matters fully and professionally, Wellington said in a statement. Wellington encouraged anyone wishing to anonymously provide police with information to use the Fairfield police mobile app or text FPDCT with the information to Tip411 (847411). Artificial intelligence has potential benefits for businesses across Connecticut and the world, but U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal raised concerns Monday that an airline is using the technology to hike fares for consumers. Blumenthal and two other U.S. senators sent a letter to Delta Airlines that questioned the potential use of customer details to craft prices, which the company has denied. Deltas current and planned individualized pricing practices not only present data privacy concerns but will also likely mean fare price increases up to each individual consumers personal pain point at a time when American families are already struggling with rising costs, the senators wrote in a letter that was released publicly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before catching a plane to Washington, D.C., on Monday, Blumenthal said, Delta has begun a new pricing tactic on a major scale. Its experimenting with individual pricing, surveillance-based pricing, which tailors prices to individuals based on what they can afford and how much they need the ticket not on supply and demand. So this summer, when you travel, look to the person on your left and on your right. They may be paying half of what you are not because theyve been farsighted, but simply because their personal information has led the airline to give them a lower fee. The ticket price, Blumenthal said, can be based partly on multiple factors, such as where you live, what you have bought in the past, your social media activity all of this personal information that is available publicly and some purchase history with Delta Airline itself to estimate what you can afford and how much you need the tickets. The factors could also include geolocation, web browsing, and past purchases, he said. Blumenthal added, They have algorithms and artificial intelligence to make the judgement, after collecting this information. Its a new era, based on artificial intelligence in pricing that is profoundly dangerous to personal privacy. Delta is at the vanguard of using algorithms and artificial intelligence, and the other airlines, in effect, have been watching Delta on how it goes down with consumers. Delta defended its policies Monday in a statement to The Courant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no fare product Delta has ever used, is testing or plans to use that targets customers with individualized offers based on personal information or otherwise, Delta said. A variety of market forces drive the dynamic pricing model thats been used in the global industry for decades, with new tech simply streamlining this process. Delta always complies with regulations around pricing and disclosures. Multiple factors are involved in setting airline prices, including jet fuel prices, the demand for seats, the date and time of the flight and the destination, among others. Blumenthal and Sens. Ruben Gallego of Arizona and Mark Warner of Virginia have been seeking further information from the airline. At the same time, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom criticized the actions without mentioning Delta by name when asked by a financial analyst on a quarterly earnings call. He said there were concerns about data privacy and the trust of customers. The airline industry in general uses artificial intelligence for multiple matters such as predicting the weather, which is a key factor in the industry. The airline has said it is using this in a minor way, Blumenthal said of Delta when asked by The Courant. Right now, its about 3% to 7% of its domestic price network. It has said publicly that it plans to do 20% of all its pricing based on artificial intelligence and use of algorithms by the end of the year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Delta has previously said that artificial intelligence could help the airline in forecasting the demand for certain flights and routes as it constantly analyzes changing market conditions. AI technology would modernize the internal systems and accelerate the analysis of various prices. The history of airlines is they are more likely to raise fares and drive profit margins, Blumenthal said. ZIP codes certainly are a factor. Where you live whether its Hartford versus New Canaan, just to apply the stereotypical kinds of differences that may apply could well be used. But it also may be within Hartford literally two blocks within walking distance could be factors in charging different prices. In a broader context, Congress does not have the immediate oversight power on the overall issue. Obviously, theres no regulation right now of AI, Blumenthal said. So theres no effective protection for consumer privacy, which is one of the main dangers here. Weve been focusing on price discrimination, potential profiteering and price gouging, which is a real danger. But theres also a jeopardy to privacy. AI still is the Wild West, so far as consumer protection is concerned. Christopher Keating can be reached at ckeating@courant.com Wondering about the new AI laws in Connecticut? Check them out. Andrew Cuomo believes Mondays mass shooting in Midtown Manhattan will bring public safety to the forefront of this years mayoral race and is already citing the tragedy in painting Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani as someone who would be ill-equipped to oversee the NYPD. Cuomo, whos running as an independent against Mamdani in Novembers mayoral election, made the assessment in a wide-ranging interview with the Daily News on Tuesday afternoon. In the interview, Cuomo argued issues related to public safety are political weak spots for Mamdani and affirmed he plans to start calling out his past rhetoric about policing as the general election season heats up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having vowed to run a more aggressive general election campaign after losing last months Democratic mayoral primary to Mamdani by a 12-percentage-point margin, Cuomo even questioned whether his opponents condolences for the NYPD officer killed in Mondays shooting were genuine. [Mamdani] said that today because it was in his political interest, but everything he has said for years is the exact opposite, said Cuomo, who resigned as governor in 2021 amid sexual and professional misconduct accusations he now denies. The ex-gov continued, You do a 180 right after this incident and its just coincidental that the election is a few months away? Do you buy that? Cuomo was referring to an X post Mamdani put out Monday in which he, in part, wrote he was grateful for the cops and other emergency personnel who earlier in the day had responded to 345 Park Ave., where officials say suspect Shane Tamura fatally shot NYPD officer Didarul Islam and three others before killing himself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani, a democratic socialist, embraced sharply different rhetoric about the NYPD during the Black Lives Matter protests that erupted in 2020 in the wake of the murder of George Floyd. In social media posts at the time, Mamdani wrote the city should defund and dismantle NYPD, blasting the department as racist, anti-queer & a major threat to public safety. Oh, really, Officer Islam was racist? Cuomo said Tuesday. Whos going to apply to be a police officer when thats what the mayor thinks of them? Mamdani, who is in Uganda visiting family this week, wasnt available for an interview Tuesday, but his spokeswoman Zara Rahim blasted Cuomo for using the shooting as fodder for a political attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Families across our city are mourning including members of our Muslim community grieving an officer who leaves behind his pregnant wife and young children. Multiple victims remain in the hospital, fighting for their lives, Rahim said. Our focus is on supporting those whove lost loved ones and bringing our communities together in the face of tragedy. This is a moment for compassion and solidarity not cheap shots in the press. Mayor Adams, whos also running as an independent in Novembers election after having dropped out of the Democratic primary amid fallout from his federal indictment, agreed with Mamdanis campaign. It is deeply disappointing and frankly despicable that during a moment of tragedy, when our city is mourning the loss of one of its own, former Governor Cuomo would choose to inject politics, Adams told The News in a statement. Now is not the time for political potshots. Now is a time for unity, compassion and focus on the brave officer who made the ultimate sacrifice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since launching his mayoral bid, Mamdani has shifted gears rhetorically on policing, saying he wouldnt defund the NYPD as mayor. Instead, he has vowed hed keep the departments officer headcount flat and launch a new community safety agency focused on helping people with mental illness in order to let cops focus on fighting crime. But Cuomo, who has pledged to as mayor hire 5,000 new NYPD officers, said he doesnt trust Mamdani would make good on those promises. I dont believe that pointing to one statement counteracts 10 years of activism and hundreds of tweets, said Cuomo. As governor, Cuomo voiced solidarity in 2020 with elements of the Black Lives Matter movement and signed an executive order that threatened to pull state funding from police departments that didnt take steps to reform their use-of-force protocols to ensure accountability and to protect civil rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But on Tuesday, Cuomo struck a different tone, arguing the anti-police sentiment that took root in 2020 was dangerous. That whole movement was wrong and did tremendous damage and today is a reality check on that, he said. Cuomo spokesman Rich Azzopardi later said the ex-gov was with that comment referring to the defund-the-police movement, not Black Lives Matter. Mamdani is polling as the favorite to win Novembers election after running a primary campaign focused on affordability that included pledges to freeze rent for stabilized tenants, drastically expand subsidized child care and make public buses free. Policing was not a major theme of Mamdanis campaign, and Cuomo as well as Adams are likely to come after him over that issue this fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cuomo saved some criticism for Adams in relation to the Midtown shooting as well. Touting that, as governor, he signed legislation that banned assault rifles in New York, Cuomo questioned why Adams hasnt as mayor tried to do more to rally local elected officials around the country to push Congress to enact stricter gun control laws on the federal level. I havent heard or seen him doing that, Cuomo said. In his statement, Adams said Cuomo is mistaken, noting his administration has convened national meetings with mayors from cities most impacted by gun violence. This is not a moment for finger-pointing. Its a moment to honor our heroes, support their families, and recommit ourselves to the hard work of keeping our cities safe, he said. Chennai airport officials made a dramatic series of seizures that included exotic animals and smuggled gold in a string of busts, which brought up fresh concerns about illegal wildlife trafficking and cross-border smuggling. These incidents reflect the growing challenges that law enforcement faces as smuggling tactics become more egregious and dangerous. What's happening? According to DT Next, customs officers at Chennai International Airport intercepted a male passenger arriving from Bangkok. To their surprise, they discovered two live monkeys that were later identified as an agile gibbon and an eastern grey gibbon (also known as the northern grey gibbon). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The monkeys were hidden inside his checked baggage, and the man claimed he planned to keep them as personal pets, but did not have the proper documentation. These primates are both protected species and considered endangered wildlife by the IUCN. The man was detained under The Wildlife Protection Act in India, and the monkeys were deported back to Thailand. In a separate case, customs officials seized 409 grams of gold worth Rs. 38 lakh ($44,080) from a man coming in from Dubai, which led to his arrest. The gold was hidden inside the man's rectum. A third case led to an arrest when a passenger flying in from Singapore smuggled 150 grams of gold inside the mechanisms of his suitcase. And a fourth smuggling incident, also 150 grams of gold inside a suitcase, led to another arrest, all on the same Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the smuggled items are different, the incidents reveal how global trade routes are being exploited, with consequences for ecosystems, public safety, and national security. Why are smuggling busts important? Smuggling endangered animals across borders can introduce diseases, disrupt food chains, and wipe out local populations that are already struggling to thrive or survive. Wildlife traffickers often target gibbons due to their rarity and appeal to the exotic pet trade. They're listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), meaning they are at high risk of extinction and protected from international sale under nearly all circumstances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, smuggling goods like undeclared gold erodes border security and often overlaps with and enables criminal networks involved in trafficking of all kinds. Financially, according to the UNODC in 2023, wildlife trafficking alone is worth up to $20 billion a year, while gold smuggling can cost countries millions in revenue annually, like in Ghana, as reported by Reuters. What's being done to stop it? Groups like CITES and Interpol work with the International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime to keep track of wildlife trafficking and share information when smugglers try to move animals across borders. Cracking down on these criminal networks takes diligent checks at airports, better tools for scanning bags, and people simply paying close attention. You can help by not contributing to the exotic pet trade by buying exotic pets and staying alert to suspicious travel or trade. Every time someone chooses not to support this kind of trade, it makes it harder for smugglers to keep going. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. On Monday, a cyberattack on Russias state-owned airline Aeroflot led to a major outage for the companys computer system, causing dozens of flight cancellations. Responsibility for the cyberattack was claimed by a Ukrainian hacker group called Silent Crow along with a Belarusian hacker activist group known as the Cyber-Partisans, per The Associated Press. Also on Monday, President Donald Trump shortened his deadline for Russia to sign a peace deal with Ukraine. The impact of the cyberattack The AP reported that over 100 flights were canceled due to the cyberattack, and more were delayed. Aeroflots subsidiaries, Rossiya and Pobeda, also experienced flight disruptions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A majority of the impacted flights were domestic, but there were also cancellations for international flights to Belarus, Armenia and Uzbekistan. The airline did not say how long it would take for the problems to be resolved, but did say that the problem stemmed from issues with its information system. According to NBC, the Kremlin called the situation worrying and prosecutors confirmed that Aeroflots issues were the result of a hack, opening up a criminal investigation. Anton Gorelkin, a senior lawmaker, said that Russia was under digital attack. We must not forget that the war against our country is being waged on all fronts, including the digital one. And I do not rule out that the hacktivists who claimed responsibility for the incident are in the service of unfriendly states, Gorelkin said in a statement, per NBC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for the Kremlin said the hacker threat is a threat that remains for all large companies providing services to the general public, per the AP. Customers stand by a counter of Russian airline Aeroflot at the airport in Prague, Czech Republic, Tuesday, July 2, 2019. | Petr David Josek What group committed the cyberattack? A statement claiming to be from the hacking group Silent Crow claimed responsibility for the operation together with the Cyber-Partisans. The groups also linked the attack to the war in Ukraine, according to BBC. Glory to Ukraine! Long live Belarus! said the statement, per BBC. Following the attack, the Cyber-Partisans website said: We are helping Ukrainians in their fight with the occupier, carrying out a cyber strike on Aeroflot and paralysing the largest airline in Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The statement from the Silent Crow claimed that the cyberattack was the result of a yearlong operation to penetrate Aeroflots network. The group also claimed that it destroyed 7,000 servers, copied customer and internal data, and gained control over employees computers. The group also threatened to start releasing the personal data of all Russians who have ever flown Aeroflot, per NBC. According to the AP, Belarus is a close ally of Russia and is ruled by President Alexander Lukashenko. Lukashenko allowed Russia to use his countrys territory to launch a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, and to deploy some of Moscows tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, per the AP. Trumps deadline for Putin On July 14, Trump gave a 50-day deadline for Russian President Vladimir Putin to reach a peace deal with Ukraine or face massive secondary tariffs against Moscows trade partners, per Fox News. That deadline was set to expire in early September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While in Scotland with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday, Trump said he will shorten that original deadline to 10-12 days from Monday. Im going to make a new deadline, of about 10, 10 or 12 days from today, Trump told reporters, per Fox News. Theres no reason for waiting. It was 50 days. I wanted to be generous, but we just dont see any progress being made. The president said he will likely make a formal announcement of the deadline revision tonight or tomorrow, per CNBC. He added that the U.S. would impose sanctions in addition to the secondary tariffs if the deadline is not met. Im disappointed in President Putin, Trump said. Russia and Ukraine I would have said five times we had a deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I spoke to President Putin a lot. Got along with him very well, he continued, per CNBC. Then President Putin launches rockets into a city like Kyiv and kills a lot of people in a nursing home, or wherever and there are bodies lying all over the streets. Trump said that he didnt see any reason to wait because he thinks he already knows what the answer from Putin will be, per Fox News. These comments from Trump came hours after Russia launched over 300 drones and missiles across Ukraine, according to Fox News. This caused Ukraine to scramble its air force, and also prompted Polands Operational Command to deploy fighter jets into the air. LAUDERDALE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) The Lauderdale County District Attorney has filed a complaint asking for approval for 29 dogs taken from a home in July to be adopted. On July 1, 29 dogs were confiscated from the home of Steven Reynolds & Teresa Counce on County Road 6 in Lauderdale County. Later, while in the custody of the Florence-Lauderdale Animal Shelter, four puppies were born. CLICK HERE for News 19s Interactive Radar Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Lauderdale County DA filed a lawsuit on July 23, asking a judge to allow those dogs to be adopted. The complaint said Reynolds and Counce have demonstrated a complete inability to properly care for said dogs. The Lauderdale County Sheriff told News 19 that this was the same house from which 82 dogs were confiscated from in January. As a result of the seizure of the 29 dogs, the document says a criminal investigation is ongoing into the pair. One of the exhibits in the lawsuit provides the original narrative from lead investigator Macy Hughes when they arrived at the house the second time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sergeant [Dylan] Hogue and myself forced entry inside the shed and located 29 dogs. There were multiple dogs inside metal-wired crates and some of the dogs did not have access to food and water. I could smell a strong odor of urine and feces inside the shed, Hughes detailed. As part of the order asking for authorization of the dogs adoptions, the DA is also asking that Reynolds and Counce be held financially responsible for expenses related to the housing, care and provisions for the dogs. LCSO told News 19 that before the July search where the dogs were rescued, animal control had received several complaints that Counce had a large number of dogs again. She was charged in February with cruelty to animals and agreed to relinquish ownership of the dogs to the animal shelter as part of a plea agreement. Part of the agreement also granted the sheriffs office to search the property without a warrant. Latest Headlines Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When investigators arrived at the property for the July search, LCSO said they were unable to make contact with anyone at the house but that the investigators could hear multiple dogs barking inside a metal shed. Investigators made entry into the shed and located 29 dogs inside living in the same conditions as the previous seizure. Animal control officers took possession of the dogs to assess their medical conditions. This investigation is ongoing, LCSO said. To be considered to foster one of the dogs, pending court approval, Florence-Lauderdale Animal Services said this form must be 100 percent completed to be considered. Here is the link to the form if you are interested in fostering a dog, pending court approval. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. One dad is leading the way to rid his community of invasive fish. According to Yahoo News, Scott Clark is clearing Queensland of tilapia with a $6 Kmart fishing net. While tilapia may be a staple on the table, it's not native to Australia. It's actually native to South and Central America, Southern India, Sri Lanka, and Africa. It was introduced to Australia in the 1970s. While not all non-native species are invasive, the ones that are outcompete native species for resources. "Sadly, after 15 years exploring Queensland's fresh water, he no longer sees native fish in local water systems something that experts warn is a direct result of invasive species taking over," Yahoo News stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities can't agree on how to tackle the problem. However, the government has banned fishers from eating tilapia or using it as bait because it doesn't want to give the fish any value. Scott doesn't agree with this rule because other places that have invasive tilapia, such as the Philippines, do eat it. "They eat it by the bucketload," he said. Scott's hard work is paying off, though. He'll hit infested areas multiple times. One creek had thousands of tilapia, and now he only gets a handful of them when he goes. After video of his fishing for tilapia went viral, he's seeing more people catching the invasive fish, too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Australia doesn't want you to eat this invasive fish, some places in the United States are OK with it. The nonprofit Lionfish Extermination Corp. shared a recipe on TikTok to show people how to cook lionfish, which is invasive in South Florida. And Minnesota officials are encouraging people to eat carp. Determining how to eliminate an invasive species is difficult. That's why it's vital to explore critical climate issues to better understand how to take action. Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Welcome to the Daily Weather Update from FOX Weather. It's Tuesday, July 29, 2025. Start your day with everything you need to know about today's weather. You can also get a quick briefing of national, regional and local weather whenever you like with the FOX Weather Update podcast. A destructive derecho snapped trees and knocked out power to tens of thousands of people as it tore across portions of the northern Plains and Upper Midwest with hurricane-force wind gusts late Monday night and into early Tuesday morning. Sioux Center, Iowa, has reported the highest gust so far, reaching 99 mph. In Spencer, Iowa, a 92-mph wind gust was reported. Irene and Parker in South Dakota reported wind gusts of 87 and 85 mph, respectively. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of early Tuesday morning, more than 100,000 power outages were reported in Minnesota, while just under 30,000 outages were reported in portions of Iowa. A massive heat dome parked over the Southeast has prompted heat alerts, including Heat Advisories and Extreme Heat Warnings, for nearly 160 million Americans from the Plains to the East Coast through midweek. Tuesday is expected to be one of the hottest days of the week, with more than two dozen record highs threatened from Florida to New England. The extreme heat continues into Wednesday, but the worst of it will be focused on the mid-Atlantic states. Anyone spending time outdoors is advised to take precautions to avoid heat exhaustion and heatstroke . Young children and babies, along with older adults, should avoid prolonged time outdoors. When outdoors, it's important to drink plenty of water with electrolytes and spend time in the shade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hurricane Iona strengthened into a Category 3 storm hundreds of miles southeast of Honolulu late Monday night local time, as Tropical Storm Keli follows on Iona's heels several hundred miles to its east in the Central Pacific Ocean. Both storms are expected to stay well south of the Hawaiian Islands, though the archipelago could see some enhanced wave heights this week. A truck was struck by lightning during an intense thunderstorm in Texas last week, and the entire thing was caught on video. As the severe weather event unfolded, a bright bolt of lightning could be seen striking the front of his truck, and a loud thump could be heard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are a few more stories you might find interesting. Need more weather? Check your local forecast plus 3D radar in the FOX Weather app. You can also watch FOX Weather wherever you go using the FOX Weather app, at FOXWeather.com/live or on your favorite streaming service. Original article source: Daily Weather Update from FOX Weather: Derecho blasts Plains with destructive winds as massive heat dome peaks Dallas officially welcomed Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania, as its newest Sister City on Tuesday, July 22, marking a milestone in U.S.-Africa relations. Mayor Eric L. Johnson signed the agreement alongside Dar es Salaam Lord Mayor Omary S. Kumbilamoto during an eight-day visit to Tanzania, solidifying a partnership rooted in economic and cultural exchange. The pact, building on a 2022 Memorandum of Understanding, outlines plans for trade and economic development, small business exchanges, student programs, and tourism collaborations. It fulfills three prior goals: establishing a trade office in Dallas for East African commerce, hosting a Dallas delegation in Tanzania, and formalizing this agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce, headquartered in Dallass International District since last year, enhances the citys role in this growing trade, which hit $770 million with Tanzania in 2024. Johnsons trip included stops in Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, and Arusha, where he met with Tanzanian officials and business leaders. Arriving in Dar es Salaam on July 20, he was greeted by U.S. Embassy representatives and Ambassador Elsie Kanza. Over the following days, he engaged with figures like Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila, who invited Dallas businesses to invest, citing Dar es Salaams strategic location and workforce. Cultural and educational exchanges are key to a thriving Sister City relationship, in addition to economic trade, Johnson said during a meeting with Kumbilamoto. The formal signing ceremony followed a roundtable discussion with Tanzanian Minister Palamagamba John Kabudi and other participants, focusing on trade, investment, and tourism. Johnson highlighted Dallass economic strength and its emerging role in U.S.-Tanzania commerce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo later congratulated Johnson, noting that the partnerships foundation was in genuine connections and mutual respect. Johnson also visited cultural sites, such as the African Liberation Museum and the Dar Centre for Architectural Heritage, to emphasize the cultural ties. His trip concluded with a factory tour at Tanzania Tooku Garments Company, which employs over 4,000 workers in denim production, and a networking dinner where he invited Tanzanian leaders to explore potential Dallas investments. Successful business partnerships must be built on trust and strong personal relationships, he said, underscoring the visits impact. The agreement signals a new era of collaboration, with Dallas positioning itself as a hub for Tanzanian trade in the U.S. By Amir Orusov (Reuters) -German automaker Volkswagen's premium brand Audi lowered its full-year financial guidance on Monday, citing the impact of higher U.S. import tariffs and ongoing restructuring costs. The Ingolstadt-based company now expects revenue of between 65 billion euros and 70 billion euros ($76 billion and $82 billion), down from its previous forecast of 67.5 billion euros to 72.5 billion euros. Audi also cut its operating margin forecast to 5% to 7%, compared to the earlier range of 7% to 9%. Audi said it is still assessing the implications of the trade deal reached between the United States and the European Union on Sunday. The agreement set a 15% baseline U.S. tariff on imports from the EU, including cars, which had previously faced customs duties of 27.5%. "Should the 15% tariff stay in place long-term, it would still put Audi at a competitive disadvantage, because its key peers have a more pronounced U.S. production footprint," said Fabio Hoelscher, an analyst from Warburg Research. Audi is among the carmakers most exposed to U.S. tariffs as it has no manufacturing facilities in the United States. Although the deal provides clarity on the new tariff regime, enabling better operational and strategic planning, the 15% rate still represents a structural shift from the 2.5% rate before U.S. President Donald Trump took office, said Pal Skirta, equity analyst from Metzler Equities. That leaves German carmakers facing persistently higher U.S. tariffs on their exports and long-term competitiveness challenges, he said. The Volkswagen Group also cut its full-year guidance on Friday after taking a $1.5-billion tariff hit in the first half of 2025. Global automakers have booked billions of dollars of losses and some issued profit warnings due to U.S. import tariffs. The European industry is also facing stiffening competition from China, and domestic regulations aimed at speeding up the electric-vehicle transition. ($1 = 0.8535 euros) (Reporting by Christina Amman and Amir Orusov; Editing by Rachel More and Joe Bavier) Dallas police are investigating a fatal shooting that left a 32-year-old man dead late Monday night in the east Oak Cliff area. Cameron Robertson was found shot in the 3000 block of E. Ledbetter Drive at the Trailside at Trinity Forest apartments around 11:40 p.m. on July 28. The shooting adds to Dallas ongoing struggle with violent crime as authorities work to identify suspects and establish a motive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers responding to the shooting call discovered Robertson at the scene with gunshot wounds. Paramedics transported him to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries. After interviewing witnesses during a preliminary investigation, detectives said they believe Robertsons female partner shot him, Fox 4 KDFW reported. The Dallas Police Department has not reported any arrests in connection with the case, and the investigation is ongoing. Detective J. Morgan is leading the homicide investigation, documented as case number 107671-2025. Anyone with information is urged to contact Morgan at 214-425-9905 or jake.morgan@dallaspolice.gov. An undocumented immigrant accused of causing the death of two teens in a drunk driving incident is now at the center of a dispute between federal immigration authorities and Dane County officials over the county's "sanctuary" policies. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is accusing Dane County of undermining public safety by declining to transfer the defendant, 30-year-old Noelia Saray Martinez-Avila, into its custody if she were to post bond. Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett said his concern is that ICE may try to deport Martinez-Avila before she faces trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Deporting someone before they face trial allows them to evade that accountability it's essentially a 'get out of jail free' card," Barrett said in an email. According to prosecutors, 18-year-old Hallie Helgeson and 19-year-old Brady Heiling of Minnesota were driving on Highway I-90 in DeForest on July 20 when they were struck by Martinez-Avila, who was driving in the wrong direction. Helgeson was pronounced dead at the scene. Heiling was severely injured and died from his injuries five days later. According to court documents, Martinez-Avila had an alcohol level of 0.208 at the scene, far above the legal limit of 0.08. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Martinez-Avila was arrested and charged with six felony and three misdemeanor counts related to the incident, including homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle. Her cash bond was set at $250,000. After her arrest, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement asked the Dane County Jail to hold her if she were to post bond so that ICE officers could take her into custody, making her vulnerable to deportation before her case concludes. Martinez-Avila is an undocumented immigrant from Honduras, according to the department. Known as "detainers," these are requests from immigration authorities to local law enforcement to delay releasing immigrants from their jails for longer than they could if they were citizens so immigrantion agents can take them into custody. Many local law enforcement agencies around the country, including the Dane County Sheriff's Office, do not honor such requests, earning them nicknames as "sanctuary" jurisdictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a news release, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said Dane County's lack of cooperation could lead "to the release of murderers and other heinous criminals." "Under Secretary (Kristi) Noem, these precious victims will not be forgotten, and we will fight for justice," McLaughlin said in the release. Barrett said it is the Department of Homeland Security's responsibility to obtain an arrest warrant signed by a judge, which would ensure that the department can lawfully take custody of Martinez-Avila. Detainers are not legally binding. The next hearing in the case, a status conference, is scheduled for Sept. 22. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Dane County District Attorney's office did not immediately respond to inquiries about the case. Sheriff previously said he would not honor ICE detainers Although the Biden administration focused on arresting and deporting immigrants convicted of violent felonies, the Trump administration has ramped up the number of arrests of people with pending criminal charges and without criminal records. Research by various agencies including the National Institutes of Health show that undocumented immigrants are arrested for crimes far less than US-born citizens, although crimes still take place in immigrant communities. In a survey of Wisconsin sheriffs in February, Barrett told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that he would not honor ICE detainers. At the time, Barrett said he believed this would help build trust with immigrant communities, which would encourage crime reporting and enhance public safety overall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the meantime, Barrett said ensuring the families of Helgeson and Heiling get justice is one of the office's top priorities. More: ICE arrests in Wisconsin double under Trump, sharpest jump involves people without criminal records Martinez-Avila's case has also raised questions about Wisconsin's relatively lax driving laws. Martinez-Avila has previous non-criminal traffic violations, including one incident of driving while intoxicated in 2020. In that case, she was found guilty in municipal court and required to install an ignition interlock in her car. At the time of the July crash, prosecutors say she did not have an ignition interlock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, she received a traffic citation for going 20 miles per hour over the speed limit. She did not have a valid driver's license at each of the incidents. Wisconsin does not issue driver's licenses to immigrants living in the state without legal status. Martinez-Avila's attorney Roberto Ledesma did not immediately respond to the Journal Sentinel's inquiries. Eva Wen is a reporter with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Reach her at qwen@gannett.com. Gina Castro is a Public Investigator reporter. She can be reached at gcastro@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin sheriff: Driver in deadly crash should face trial, not ICE Dangerous conditions continue across Florida Tuesday, July 29, with most of the state under either extreme heat warnings or heat advisories. The notable exception continues to be South Florida, where temps are expected to reach the 90s but stay below the threshold for heat watches and warnings. Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The heat index in several areas is expected to reach as high as 115 on July 29. See when heat watches and warnings could be issued in your area Here's what you should know about the extreme heat warnings and watches in effect and what they mean. Tampa, Florida, ties record heat index, hitting 118 degrees On Monday, July 28, Tampa's heat index hit 118, tying the record of 118 set on Aug. 6, 2000, according to Stephen Shiveley, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Tampa Bay. Heat warnings, watches, advisories in effect across Florida Quick look at conditions around Florida Tuesday, July 29 Expected heat index at 2 p.m. July 29, 2025, in Florida. Pensacola, western Panhandle: Another hot and humid day is in store for the area. High temps will warm into the upper 90s, with heat indices topping out between 108-112 degrees. Tallahassee, central Panhandle: Dangerous heat continues the next few days from noon to early evening. Highs from 96 to 100, with heat indices between 106 and 112. Jacksonville, North, Northeast Florida: Dangerous heat continues today. Heat indices will soar to 108-115 degrees this afternoon. Extreme heat warnings and heat advisories are in effect from noon to 7 p.m. Daytona Beach to Stuart, central and eastern Florida: An extreme heat warning and heat advisory are in effect from noon until 7 p.m. today for east Central Florida. The extreme heat warning covers areas from Greater Orlando northward. Dangerous heat is expected. South Florida: Afternoon heat index values over 100 degrees will continue this week across South Florida. High temperatures in the 90s. Southwest, western Florida: An excessive heat warning has been issued for the Nature Coast and Tampa Bay area counties, and a heat advisory has been issued southern portions of West Central Florida from noon to 7 p.m. How long will Florida heat last? When will it get cooler? "That's the question everyone wants the answer to," Stephen Shiveley, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Tampa Bay said in a telephone interview Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The higher-than-average temperatures are "going to last for a good part of the work week," said Matt Volkmer, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Melbourne in a phone interview Tuesday morning. "It's going to be pretty hot this week and we expect more heat advisories, especially for the interior." There may be some relief in sight for the weekend or early next week. Note the word "some." Models are showing temperatures could drop closer to average due to the cooling effects of storms and cloud cover, Volkmer said. With temperatures Tuesday expected to be in the upper 90s to 100 which is well above normal highs in the Orlando area, by the weekend temperatures could be in the lower 90s, which is about normal for the area in early August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Along Florida's west coast, Tuesday "should be last day of extreme heat, with temps in upper 90s and a heat index of 110 and above. Starting Wednesday, it will cool down slightly, more into the mid to low 90s instead of the upper 90s, with a heat index of Florida normal, about 105," Shiveley said. By Sunday or Monday, "we may finally get closer to average, with a chance for rain, although the chances for rain on the west coast" are lower than along the east coast and Central Florida, Shiveley said. Extreme heat warnings issued for 28 Florida counties Heat warnings are in effect until 7 p.m. for the following counties: What is an extreme heat warning? The National Weather Service renamed excessive heat watches and excessive heat warnings to extreme heat watches and warnings, effective March 4, 2025. An extreme heat warning is issued when dangerous heat is happening or about to happen. Residents are advised to take action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "An extreme heat warning is issued when extremely dangerous heat conditions are expected or occurring," the National Weather Service said. When is an extreme heat warning issued in Florida? There are slight differences around the state on when extreme heat warnings are issued: Western Panhandle: This is issued if the heat index is expected to reach 113 degrees or higher over the next 12 to 24 hours or the air temperature is expected to hit 105 degrees. Central Panhandle, North Florida: This is issued is the heat index is expected to reach 113 degrees or the air temperatures is forecast to reach 105 degrees within the next 6 to 24 hours. Northeast Florida: This is issued if the heat index is expected to be 113 degrees within the next 12 to 24 hours. East Central Florida: This is issued if a heat index of 113 degrees is expected in the next 24 hours. In South Florida : This is issued if there is certainty the heat index will hit 113 degrees for two hours or longer. Southwest, West Central Florida: This is issued if the heat index is expected to reach 113 degrees or the air temperature is forecast to reach 105 degrees within the next 24 hours. What should you do when there is an extreme heat warning? "Avoid outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade," the National Weather Service said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Stay indoors in an air-conditioned space as much as possible, including overnight. Check on family and neighbors," especially children, the elderly and pets. Heat advisory issued for 30 Florida counties A heat advisory is in effect for the following counties: What is a heat advisory? A heat advisory is issued for dangerous heat conditions that are not expected to reach warning criteria, according to the National Weather Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When a heat advisory is issued also depends on where you are in Florida. For most of the state, a heat advisory is issued if the heat index is expected to be between 108 to 112 degrees. Here is the breakdown by each NWS region. A heat advisory is issued when the heat index is expected to be: Western Panhandle: 108-112 degrees Central Panhandle, North Florida: 108 to 112 within the next 6 to 24 hours or air temperature is forecast to reach 103 degrees Northeast Florida: 108-112 degrees East Central Florida: 108 to 112 degrees In South Florida : 108 degrees in South Florida or 105 degrees for Miami/Dade and Broward counties Southwest, West Central Florida: 108-112 or the air temp is greater or equal to 103 degrees Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Weather Service Miami said Miami/Dade County wanted a lower threshold for a heat advisory for its population. What should you do when there is a heat advisory? "Residents are advised to consider postponing or rescheduling outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day," the National Weather Service said. "If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Stay in a cool place, especially during the heat of the day and evening." Tampa, Florida, sets record high temperature of 100 degrees Tampa set a record high temperature of 100 degrees July 27, 2025. On July 27, Tampa set an all-time record high temperature of 100 degrees, according to the National Weather Service Tampa Bay. The prior record was 99, set on June 26, 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Weather Service Tampa Bay explained why it's unusual for the area to get temperatures as high as 100. "Why has Tampa never hit 100? The airport sits on the edge of Tampa Bay. The sea breeze is usually able to move in and cool things down before temps can quite get that hot. A combo of multiple hot, dry days and a strong NE wind kept that from happening today (July 27), breaking the record," the agency posted on X. Records date back to April 1, 1890. Heat index and temperature map for US, Florida National Hurricane Center tracking 4 tropical waves All is quiet in the tropics, with no development expected over the next seven days. The National Hurricane Center is monitoring four tropical waves, including three in the Caribbean. Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text What's next? We will provide weather coverage as conditions warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download your local site's app to ensure you're always connected to the news. And look for our special subscription offers here. This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Extreme heat warnings issued in Florida as heat index soars to 115 Dangerous conditions continue across Florida Tuesday, July 29, with most of the state under either extreme heat warnings or heat advisories. The notable exception continues to be South Florida, where temps are expected to reach the 90s but stay below the threshold for heat watches and warnings. Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The heat index in several areas is expected to reach as high as 115 on July 29. See when heat watches and warnings could be issued in your area Here's what you should know about the extreme heat warnings and watches in effect and what they mean. Tampa, Florida, ties record heat index, hitting 118 degrees On Monday, July 28, Tampa's heat index hit 118, tying the record of 118 set on Aug. 6, 2000, according to Stephen Shiveley, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Tampa Bay. Heat warnings, watches, advisories in effect across Florida Quick look at conditions around Florida Tuesday, July 29 Expected heat index at 2 p.m. July 29, 2025, in Florida. Pensacola, western Panhandle: Another hot and humid day is in store for the area. High temps will warm into the upper 90s, with heat indices topping out between 108-112 degrees. Tallahassee, central Panhandle: Dangerous heat continues the next few days from noon to early evening. Highs from 96 to 100, with heat indices between 106 and 112. Jacksonville, North, Northeast Florida: Dangerous heat continues today. Heat indices will soar to 108-115 degrees this afternoon. Extreme heat warnings and heat advisories are in effect from noon to 7 p.m. Daytona Beach to Stuart, central and eastern Florida: An extreme heat warning and heat advisory are in effect from noon until 7 p.m. today for east Central Florida. The extreme heat warning covers areas from Greater Orlando northward. Dangerous heat is expected. South Florida: Afternoon heat index values over 100 degrees will continue this week across South Florida. High temperatures in the 90s. Southwest, western Florida: An excessive heat warning has been issued for the Nature Coast and Tampa Bay area counties, and a heat advisory has been issued southern portions of West Central Florida from noon to 7 p.m. How long will Florida heat last? When will it get cooler? "That's the question everyone wants the answer to," Stephen Shiveley, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Tampa Bay said in a telephone interview Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The higher-than-average temperatures are "going to last for a good part of the work week," said Matt Volkmer, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Melbourne in a phone interview Tuesday morning. "It's going to be pretty hot this week and we expect more heat advisories, especially for the interior." There may be some relief in sight for the weekend or early next week. Note the word "some." Models are showing temperatures could drop closer to average due to the cooling effects of storms and cloud cover, Volkmer said. With temperatures Tuesday expected to be in the upper 90s to 100 which is well above normal highs in the Orlando area, by the weekend temperatures could be in the lower 90s, which is about normal for the area in early August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Along Florida's west coast, Tuesday "should be last day of extreme heat, with temps in upper 90s and a heat index of 110 and above. Starting Wednesday, it will cool down slightly, more into the mid to low 90s instead of the upper 90s, with a heat index of Florida normal, about 105," Shiveley said. By Sunday or Monday, "we may finally get closer to average, with a chance for rain, although the chances for rain on the west coast" are lower than along the east coast and Central Florida, Shiveley said. Extreme heat warnings issued for 28 Florida counties Heat warnings are in effect until 7 p.m. for the following counties: What is an extreme heat warning? The National Weather Service renamed excessive heat watches and excessive heat warnings to extreme heat watches and warnings, effective March 4, 2025. An extreme heat warning is issued when dangerous heat is happening or about to happen. Residents are advised to take action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "An extreme heat warning is issued when extremely dangerous heat conditions are expected or occurring," the National Weather Service said. When is an extreme heat warning issued in Florida? There are slight differences around the state on when extreme heat warnings are issued: Western Panhandle: This is issued if the heat index is expected to reach 113 degrees or higher over the next 12 to 24 hours or the air temperature is expected to hit 105 degrees. Central Panhandle, North Florida: This is issued is the heat index is expected to reach 113 degrees or the air temperatures is forecast to reach 105 degrees within the next 6 to 24 hours. Northeast Florida: This is issued if the heat index is expected to be 113 degrees within the next 12 to 24 hours. East Central Florida: This is issued if a heat index of 113 degrees is expected in the next 24 hours. In South Florida : This is issued if there is certainty the heat index will hit 113 degrees for two hours or longer. Southwest, West Central Florida: This is issued if the heat index is expected to reach 113 degrees or the air temperature is forecast to reach 105 degrees within the next 24 hours. What should you do when there is an extreme heat warning? "Avoid outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade," the National Weather Service said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Stay indoors in an air-conditioned space as much as possible, including overnight. Check on family and neighbors," especially children, the elderly and pets. Heat advisory issued for 30 Florida counties A heat advisory is in effect for the following counties: What is a heat advisory? A heat advisory is issued for dangerous heat conditions that are not expected to reach warning criteria, according to the National Weather Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When a heat advisory is issued also depends on where you are in Florida. For most of the state, a heat advisory is issued if the heat index is expected to be between 108 to 112 degrees. Here is the breakdown by each NWS region. A heat advisory is issued when the heat index is expected to be: Western Panhandle: 108-112 degrees Central Panhandle, North Florida: 108 to 112 within the next 6 to 24 hours or air temperature is forecast to reach 103 degrees Northeast Florida: 108-112 degrees East Central Florida: 108 to 112 degrees In South Florida : 108 degrees in South Florida or 105 degrees for Miami/Dade and Broward counties Southwest, West Central Florida: 108-112 or the air temp is greater or equal to 103 degrees Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Weather Service Miami said Miami/Dade County wanted a lower threshold for a heat advisory for its population. What should you do when there is a heat advisory? "Residents are advised to consider postponing or rescheduling outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day," the National Weather Service said. "If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Stay in a cool place, especially during the heat of the day and evening." Tampa, Florida, sets record high temperature of 100 degrees Tampa set a record high temperature of 100 degrees July 27, 2025. On July 27, Tampa set an all-time record high temperature of 100 degrees, according to the National Weather Service Tampa Bay. The prior record was 99, set on June 26, 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Weather Service Tampa Bay explained why it's unusual for the area to get temperatures as high as 100. "Why has Tampa never hit 100? The airport sits on the edge of Tampa Bay. The sea breeze is usually able to move in and cool things down before temps can quite get that hot. A combo of multiple hot, dry days and a strong NE wind kept that from happening today (July 27), breaking the record," the agency posted on X. Records date back to April 1, 1890. Heat index and temperature map for US, Florida National Hurricane Center tracking 4 tropical waves All is quiet in the tropics, with no development expected over the next seven days. The National Hurricane Center is monitoring four tropical waves, including three in the Caribbean. Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text What's next? We will provide weather coverage as conditions warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download your local site's app to ensure you're always connected to the news. And look for our special subscription offers here. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Extreme heat warnings issued in Florida as heat index soars to 115 Four hikers were rescued on Friday in Maine on Maine's tallest mountain, according to officials. Baxter State Park officials in Maine said the two groups of hikers got stranded on Thursday night after dark while on Knife Edge trail on Mount Katahdin, which reaches a maximum height of over 5,000 ft. One of the hikers was a female in her 30's and had an "unstable knee injury," but the three other hikers weren't injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This incident started Thursday night after dark and appears to involve two different hiking parties that became stranded on the Knife Edge. One of the hikers, a female who is in her 30s, has sustained an unstable knee injury. The other three hikers are not injured," the state park wrote. Five Helicopters Needed To Save Injured Solo Climber On California's Second-highest Peak Mount Katahdin looms in the background as children play on a raft at New England Outdoor Center, situated on Millinocket Lake. Park rangers provided the hikers with food and other supplies on Friday morning while waiting for a Maine Forest Service helicopter to make the rescue. Read On The Fox News App The Maine Forest Service helicopter made several attempts to rescue the hikers, but low clouds blocked them, according to News Center Maine. A Blackhawk helicopter crew eventually rescued the hikers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By late Friday afternoon, all hikers were rescued. Hikers Wilderness Adventure Ends In Tragedy At Popular Park Destination A sign post directs hikers on the Hunt Trail, a section of the Appalachian Trail and a popular route to Baxter Peak on Mt. Katahdin. Two people were found dead while hiking on Mount Katahdin in early June. Baxter State Park said four hikers were rescued on June 25. Tim Keiderling, 58, and his daughter, Esther, 28, were found dead after the two went on a hiking trip. Original article source: Dangerous trail leaves hikers stranded overnight on Maine's highest mountain What on Earth is Keir Starmer playing at? His threat to recognise a state of Palestine unless Israel obeys his imperious demands, against the interests of its own citizens, avoids contact with reality and constitutes an abysmal betrayal. First, the emperor of Downing Street has commanded the Jewish state to end the war in Gaza. Would that be with or without its hostages, Prime Minister? With or without Hamas remaining in power? Because if Israelis remain in captivity and Hamas remains in place, further rounds of bloodshed are a certainty, extending the suffering down generations. These are the hard realities that the Israelis must consider, although Starmer has the luxury of ignoring them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Secondly, the PM wants Israel to allow the United Nations to retake control of aid distribution. But the reason Jerusalem intervened was that it believed the UN was working hand-in-glove with Hamas, which was taking much of the aid and selling it at inflated prices, raising the money it needed to pay its fighters. Surely not? Surely yes. According to Israeli intelligence, ten per cent of UN employees in Gaza, about 1,200 men, are card-carrying members of Hamas or Islamic Jihad, and terrorists have made good use of UN facilities. About 12 members of UN staff were allegedly involved in the October 7 atrocities. The UN aid operation was keeping Hamas in power. Without that source of income, the jihadi grip on the Strip was weakening. That is exactly why Hamas made returning aid to UN hands a key negotiating demand. Ramallah has repeatedly turned down offers of a state that satisfied 100 per cent of its demands. In 2008, for instance, Ehud Olmert offered 94 per cent of the West Bank with land swaps for the remainder, East Jerusalem as a Palestinian capital and the Old City turned over to international control, not to mention a tunnel between the West Bank and Gaza and the right of return for quotas of diaspora Palestinians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Palestinians missed the opportunity. Why? Because their government was playing a long game to destroy the Jewish state using both the bullet and the ballot, both the suicide bomb and international diplomacy. Im not just talking about Hamas. Even the regime in Ramallah pays monetary rewards to anybody convicted of terrorism and failed to condemn October 7 until last month. Take a step back and the Prime Ministers blind betrayal of the Jewish state is breathtaking. Of course the war is horrendous; of course the Israeli government includes some regrettable far-Right figures; of course mistakes have been made. But how would Starmers Britain fare if we were invaded by jihadis, saw 1,200 of our citizens butchered, lost 258 hostages, and faced an enemy embedded in tunnels beneath one of the most densely-populated areas on Earth? I shudder to think. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are the facts. Israel did not start this war. Israel did not want conflict; it withdrew from Gaza in 2005, handing the keys to the Palestinians, who then lost control of the territory to Hamas. Israel is not trying to kill, starve or oppress civilians. It is simply trying to defeat the enemy that attacked its people so brutally almost two years ago, and get its hostages back. Is that really so much to ask? As messy and imperfect as any democracy may be, youd have thought that the international community would understand that it is preferable to jihadism, and stand firm until the war is won. Instead, we have all the pressure piling up on Israel, and nothing at all upon the Palestinian side, let alone upon Hamas. Worst of all, Starmers treachery is emboldening the jihadis. Why should they release the hostages and surrender when the world is on their side? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement International condemnation of Israel was the main reason why Hamas hardened its negotiating position in Qatar last week, resulting in the talks failing. Rather than a ceasefire deal, Hamas found itself delightedly congratulating Emmanuel Macron on his proposal to recognise Palestine, and encouraging other countries to do the same. The international community has created an environment in which it is in the interests of Hamas to keep the Palestinians starving, keep the war going, and to keep the hostages in the catacombs. At this point, it is no exaggeration to suggest that Starmer and the other turncoats are doing exactly what Hamas wants them to. And it will only produce one outcome: more cycles of violence in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why is the Prime Minister doing this? A look at some of the Labour MPs who are pressing him to take this action is revealing. Shabana Mahmood, whose Birmingham Ladywell constituency has a Muslim population of 46 per cent. Wes Streeting, whose Ilford North seat is 23 per cent Muslim (he won it by only 528 votes). A pattern emerges here. The fact that Starmer appears to care more about domestic politics than he does about true peace in the Middle East is as hypocritical as it is deplorable. The worst of it is that Hamas predicted this all along. Yahya Sinwar knew that October 7 would trigger a war; as a student of recent history, he also understood that before long, the West would side with him. All he had to do was ensure a steady stream of footage of suffering Palestinian civilians, whether genuine, exaggerated or fabricated. He knew our leaders would fall for it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the darkest day in British foreign policy since the invasion of Iraq. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Everything has changed on Dartmoor since Richard Gray was a boy. Every winter his family farm at Holne would be cut off by thick snow for days at a time. Within his lifetime, winters have changed beyond recognition. Weve gone from having 20 to 30 days of lying snow every winter to just five, an incredible difference, says Gray, 46. Weve lost hard frosts here. Its so different to what I remember as a child in the early Eighties when all the pipes would be frozen. Wed go sledging day after day and the snow ploughs coming past the farm would leave walls of snow higher than me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Climate change is not the only reason farmers in one of Britains oldest national parks are feeling under siege. Environmental pressure groups, including Chris Packhams Wild Justice, blame overgrazing and poor land management for a concerning decline in biodiversity on the moor. There are 850 Commoners who jealously guard their ancestral right to graze livestock on Dartmoor. They include sheep, cattle and the world famous Dartmoor ponies. The Dartmoor Commoners Council was taken to the High Court earlier this month after Packham successfully campaigned for a judicial review, claiming the council is failing to enforce controls on grazing and the number of livestock. Sheep graze in the small village of Holne in Dartmoor - John Lawrence The rights enjoyed by the Commoners were granted under the Dartmoor Commons Act 1985, which details the statutory responsibilities the Commoners Council has towards the conservation of the commons. These include restricting the number of animals each commoner is allowed to graze. Wild Justice says that DCC has failed to meet these responsibilities, as well as neglecting its general duties under wildlife laws and regulations. Before the hearing, Chris Packham, co-director of Wild Justice, said: Sheep, subsidised by the public, are doing significant damage to lands which should be maintained in the public interest as rich repositories of biodiversity. We are paying many farmers and commoners to damage our own interests. And the sums run into millions of pounds each year. Greed is driving this abuse, pure and simple, and it needs to stop. Defra [the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs] and Natural England have proved incapable of regulating this, so Wild Justice has stepped up. We are in a crisis change is essential, and this reckless destruction needs to stop. Commoners say that contrary to Chris Packhams claims, much of Dartmoor was more heavily grazed in those days than it is now simply because there was more livestock around - Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire In particular, Wild Justice has highlighted the spread of purple moor grass which forms impenetrable tussocks that make the moor difficult to negotiate on foot and is too tough for livestock to eat. They are also concerned about the decline of wild heather and the sphagnum moss, which creates the peat bogs for which Dartmoor is famous, and the decline of some moorland birds such as skylarks and ringed ouzels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Commoners, most of whose families have farmed on Dartmoor for generations, have simply got it wrong, says Packham. They confirm that Dartmoor is not what it was, but insist that climate change, which has effectively prevented frosts from keeping gorse under control, and restrictions on age-old ways of managing the moor such as burning, are more to blame than overgrazing. Richard Grays farm lies on the flanks of the plateau which forms much of Dartmoors 400 square miles. From his door, he can see the sea at Teignmouth nearly 20 miles away. The home he shares with his wife and two teenage daughters is a wooden chalet formed from two static caravans squeezed beneath the eaves of an enormous barn. To supplement their modest income from farming, they have two large shepherds huts on wheels that are rented to visitors. Gray with some of his cattle near the village of Holne - John Lawrence Upland farming may be one of the least financially rewarding jobs in British agriculture, but those whose life it is say they do it because they love it. They say lowland farmers with lush green fields are able to follow trends and change their crop to follow food fashions. They have no such luxury. Being a Dartmoor hill farmer entails long days in summer and shorter, colder, wetter ones in winter. Climate change has at least spared Gray one annual chore. The snowline on Dartmoor always used to be 1,000 feet, which is where our farm is, he remembers. My dad and granddad talked about digging sheep out of the snow drifts. Ive only had to do it twice in 20 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dartmoor is like a doughnut with common land known as the Forest of Dartmoor owned by Prince Williams Duchy of Cornwall at its centre. The forest is so called because it was once a royal hunting ground, not because it was covered in trees. Commoners complain that frost and fire, their traditional allies in controlling the spread of inedible vegetation such as purple moor grass and gorse, are either restricted by law or no longer put in an annual appearance. The centre of the doughnut is surrounded by a ring of Commons which in turn are enclosed by open moor, much of which is increasingly covered in the spiky gorse and inedible bracken which has forced the native heather into ever smaller enclaves. The reduction in burning has allowed the spread of pests such as heather beetle. Commoners complain that the frost and fire theyd typically use to control the spread of inedible vegetation is now restricted - John Lawrence Until the Second World War, livestock would be driven from farms across Devon to spend summer on Dartmoor in much the same way as cattle spend months in lush meadows in the Alps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Commoners say that contrary to Packhams claims, much of Dartmoor was more heavily grazed in those days than it is now simply because there was more livestock around. What happens when the cattle and ponies dont graze is that the vegetation has a chance to grow and soon becomes too woody to be appetising to the sheep who prefer younger, fresher shoots. It is a delicate balance to keep the animals moving between old and new pasture to ensure everything gets a gentle and appropriate trim and isnt completely nibbled to death. Archaeologist Alan Endacott grew up in a traditional farming family and is a former curator of the Dartmoor Museum and former vice-chairman of the Dartmoor Society. He claims his family has been farming on Dartmoor since the Bronze Age. He is angry about how eco-groups portray Dartmoor farmers as damaging the area when, in fact, it is their lifeblood as well as their livelihood. This is an indigenous hill farming community, he explains. If they were Native Americans or Aboriginals, people would be up in arms defending them. Its been proven by ancient DNA studies that Hill farmers on Bodmin Moor are a distinct group that also goes back to the Bronze Age. They dont go anywhere because you marry your neighbours daughter and its self perpetuating. It is a kind of cultural genocide. This whole business is killing off a way of life, a community going back all those thousands of years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Endacott says he met a farmer in tears because his family has lived on Dartmoor for at least 1,000 years and he didnt see a future there for his own children. He said, They dont want us any more. Its the end of it all. It really did upset me. Thats the end of that familys heritage, our heritage, the whole bl---y moor. Dartmoor breeds have to be hardy because they are kept outside all year round. As the common land is not enclosed they are taught to stay in their own areas, a practice known on Dartmoor as learing and as hefting elsewhere in the country. Once the livestock have been leared, they dont stray. The same appears to apply to Dartmoors human residents. Steve Alford and his wife Hayley from Elvan Farm near Throwleigh grew up in neighbouring villages. They hope their baby son Tommy will one day take over the farm. From left to right: Hayley Alford with husband Steve Alford and their baby Tommy. Diana Alford, Crispin Alford and local archaeologist Alan Endacott - John Lawrence Steves father Crispin Alford, 73, bought his first sheep at the age of 12. He says the streams which flow freely across the moors suffer when they are under grazed because the hooves of livestock help drain the bogs and prevent deep patches of mud forming. We havent got the stock out there keeping these places drained, he explains. A lot of the crossing places you cant get in because its too boggy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There have been severe restrictions on swaling [controlled burning], which the Commoners claim is responsible for the spread of heather beetle as they are no longer allowed to control it by burning fire breaks. They also claim swaling encourages new growth because the heather seeds are activated by burning. Our family goes back generations here, says Crispin. Generations farming the moor and using the moor pretty much for everything. Whats the future for Tommy? Steve resents being told how to look after the landscape by people like Chris Packham and rewilders who would like to see it covered in trees, something that hasnt been the case since at least the neolithic period 8,000 years ago. I feel that we are being attacked and I feel that they obviously dont want farmers and farming on Dartmoor, he says. Farmers in general have been thinking about the environment for much longer than people think. We were thinking about the environment before any environmental schemes came in because we wouldnt want to damage it in any way because that would be against our interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We try our best to get a mosaic of habitats. I think that we could do much more if we were allowed to. Because we are out on the moor so much, we see a lot of wildlife other people dont see, like two ring ouzels which are incredibly rare. There have been thousands of years of farming on Dartmoor. We are very passionate about Dartmoor and we love living here. Its a way of life. We dont particularly do it because were going to get rich off of it, but we do what we do because we love it. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Oklahoma is infamous for tornadoes, but the state gets its fair share of destructive severe thunderstorms, as well. On July 29, 1960, 65 years ago this evening, severe thunderstorms raked through parts of the Sooner State, including the Oklahoma City metro area. Winds gusted up to 99 mph near Will Rogers World Airport on the city's southwest side, where two planes and several hangars were damaged. That wasn't the only OKC airport damaged. On the city's northwest side, eight planes and several hangars were also damaged at Wiley Post Airfield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fortunately, nobody was killed, though 7 were injured, including 2 children injured by flying debris, according to the National Weather Service in Norman, Oklahoma. It's a good reminder that you don't need tornadoes to produce destructive winds. In this case, the straight-line winds were equivalent to an EF1 tornado. Another OKC metro airport Tinker Air Force Base was where the nation's first successful severe weather forecast was issued in 1948. July 29, 1960 Wiley Post Will Rogers Airports Oklahoma damage Jonathan Erdman is a senior meteorologist at weather.com and has been covering national and international weather since 1996. Extreme and bizarre weather are his favorite topics. Reach out to him on Bluesky, X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. July 29 (UPI) -- On this date in history: In 1588, off the coast of Gravelines, France, Spain's "Invincible Armada" was defeated by an English naval force under the command of Charles Howard and Francis Drake. In 1794, the first African Methodist Episcopal Church, Mother Bethel, was dedicated in Philadelphia. The church was founded by Black members of St. George's Methodist Church who left the congregation due to racial segregation at the church. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1848, at the height of the potato famine in Ireland, an abortive nationalist revolt against English rule was crushed by government police in Tipperary. In 1900, Italian King Umberto I was shot to death by Gaetano Bresci, an Italian-born anarchist who resided in the United States before returning to his homeland to kill the king. The Prince and Princess of Wales kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace after their wedding at St. Paul's Cathedral on July 27, 1981. UPI File Photo In 1958, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signs into law the National Aeronautics and Space Act, which creates the National Aeronautics and Space Administration -- NASA. In 1967, a fire aboard the USS Forrestal killed 134 U.S. service members and injured another 161. The super carrier was in the Gulf of Tonkin launching aircraft in missions against targets in North Vietnam. Billy Ray Cyrus (L) and Lil Nas X perform during the 19th annual BET Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on June 23, 2019. Their song, "Old Town Road," broke the record for longest No. 1 single on the Billboard 100 on July 29, 2019. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI File Photo courtesy of the U.S. Navy In 1976, David Berkowitz, the so-called "Son of Sam," fatally shot two people in the Bronx, the first in a series of shootings that would terrorize New York City for months. Berkowitz pleaded guilty to the murders and was sentenced to more than 300 years in prison. On July 29, 1999, a federal judge in Little Rock, Ark., fined U.S. President Bill Clinton $89,000 for lying about his relationship with former White House intern Monica Lewinsky in his deposition in the Paula Jones sexual harassment case. File Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1981, British Prince Charles, son of the queen, married Diana Spencer at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. The royal couple divorced in 1996 after having two sons. In 1999, a federal judge in Little Rock, Ark., fined U.S. President Bill Clinton $89,000 for lying about his relationship with former White House intern Monica Lewinsky in his deposition in the Paula Jones sexual harassment case. Apollo 15 astronauts David R. Scott (L) and Alfred M. Worden (C) watch James B. Irwin open the hatch on a model of the Apollo 15 command service module after a news conference at the Manned Spacecraft Center. On July 29, 1958, NASA was created. UPI File Photo In 2004, Democrats nominated Sen. John Kerry of Massachusetts to oppose Republican incumbent George W. Bush in the November presidential election. File Photo by Roger L. Wollenberg/UPI Sen. Ted Stevens, R-Alaska, arrives at the U.S. District Courthouse for his arraignment in Washington on July 31, 2008. On July 29, 2008, Stevens was indicted on seven counts of failing to disclose thousands of dollars in services he received to renovate his home. File Photo by Alexis C. Glenn/UPI In 2008, U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens, R-Alaska, was indicted by a federal grand jury on seven felony counts accusing him of failing to disclose gifts from an oil services company. Stevens died in a 2010 plane crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2019, "Old Town Road" by Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus broke the record for longest-running Billboard Hot 100 No. 1. The previous record was set by Mariah Carey's "One Sweet Day." Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry stands with his wife Teresa Heinz Kerry after he spoke to the delegations on Day 4 of the Democratic National Convention at the FleetCenter in Boston on July 29, 2004. File Photo by Terry Schmitt/UPI In 2024, a 17-year-old attacked young girls at a dance studio in Southport, England, killing three children and injuring 10 others. The perpetrator, Axel Rudakubana, pleaded guilty to murder charges and was sentenced to life in prison. On 28 July, the day that US President Donald Trump announced a new deadline for Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin to end the war he started, Russian troops killed 22 civilians in Ukraine. Source: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter) Quote: "As of now, it is known that in just one past day when everyone once again felt a sense of hope that the killing might stop the Russian army killed 22 people in Ukraine. My condolences to their families and loved ones. Another 85 people were wounded. Seventy-three Ukrainian cities and villages came under Russian attack." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Zelenskyy added that Russia continued to kill civilians on 29 July. "At 02:00 last night, the Russians launched a missile strike on the city of Kamianske, targeting the city hospital. Three people were killed in the attack, including a pregnant woman. Her name was Diana. She was only 23 years old," Zelenskyy said. He recalled that late on 28 July, the Russians struck the territory of a correctional facility in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, killing 17 people and injuring another 42. "And this was done after a completely clear position was voiced by the United States a position supported by the world that Russia must end this war and move to diplomacy," Zelenskyy stressed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He once again urged the world to force Russia to pursue peace by applying "very harsh and truly painful" sanctions pressure. Background: On 28 July, Trump announced a new deadline for Putin to resolve the war he launched against Ukraine. The US president said the new deadline would be "approximately 1012 days from today [by 68 August ed.]". Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! By Qabil Ashirov In line with the directive of President Ilham Aliyev, the Great Return to Azerbaijans liberated territories continues at full pace. The latest resettlement caravan has reached the village of Khidirli in the Aghdam district, where 60 families totaling 236 people are returning to their ancestral lands and receiving newly built homes. The returning families had been temporarily settled in various parts of the country, primarily in dormitories, sanatoriums, and administrative buildings, after being displaced for decades due to the Armenian occupation. This phase of the return process includes families from across Azerbaijan: 22 families from Barda 20 families from Baku 7 families from Aghdam 4 families from Mingachevir and others from Yevlakh, Sumgayit, Absheron, Agjabadi, and Gabala. With this latest group, the total number of resettled residents in Khidirli has reached 130 families comprising 512 people. Khidirli was occupied by Armenian forces in July 1993 during the First Garabagh War. The village was liberated by the Azerbaijani Army on November 20, 2020, as part of the Second Garabagh War. The current wave of returns marks a powerful symbol of national restoration and the resilience of displaced communities who have waited decades to reclaim their homes. Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:LW) is one of the Best Mid Cap FMCG Stocks to Buy Now. Wells Fargo reduced the target price on the companys stock to $65 from $70, while keeping an Overweight rating, as reported by The Fly. The firm is aggregating models throughout Beverage/Food/HPC and updating the price targets. Notably, the firm highlighted that its target price to earnings is the discount to historical trading ranges, considering the limited near-term volume visibility. Wells Fargo Reduces PT on Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:LW) Stock Potatoes being sorted on a conveyor belt in a modern packing facility. Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:LW) has engaged AlixPartners, which is a leading global business advisory firm, to help it evaluate opportunities for near- and long-term value creation and cost savings. In the in-home consumption space, Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:LW) recently rolled out new private-label products throughout the grocery and club channels. Overall, the company remains focused on identifying new and growing customers to fuel long-term sustainable growth in its business. In North America, Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:LW) launched new battered and seasoned products, and fridge-friendly fries and tots, improving its addressable market. In the North America retail channel, the company has expanded its licensed brand portfolio to include Onion Rings and Cheesy Potato Bites. Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:LW) is engaged in the production, distribution, and marketing of frozen potato products. While we acknowledge the potential of LW as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 13 Cheap AI Stocks to Buy According to Analysts and 11 Unstoppable Growth Stocks to Invest in Now Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) The D.C. Council approved a nearly $22 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2026 Monday night. About an hour before the final vote, 15 to 20 protesters were kicked out of the D.C. Council Chambers and the Wilson Building for protesting changes to Initiative 82. Chairman Phil Mendelson had them removed because they were being disruptive. I dont understand the disruptions because its as if people think that somehow they will get more support if some disruptive and they scream and swear at anybody, said Mendelson. I just dont understand thatThe disruption makes it hard on everyone, the public whos here in the chamber and the public whos watching. We have to stop and wait. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Montgomery County teachers file class action grievance over payroll issues Voters approved Initiative 82 in November 2022 to phase out the tipped minimum wage and align it with the standard minimum wage. Councilmembers Christina Henderson and Charles Allen put forward an amendment they say is a compromise between what some workers want and what some restaurant owners want. Its a recognition that another steep increase in labor costs at this moment might change D.C.s wonderful and overwhelmingly local restaurant industry, Allen said. While it slows implementation down, it continues to close the gap between the tip minimum wage and the full minimum wage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After passing with a vote of 7-5, the tipped wage will increase every two years until it reaches 75% of the full minimum wage by 2034. The current tipped wage of $10 is frozen through the middle of next year. Starting on Jan. 1, 2026, employers have to give detailed breakdowns by source on pay stubs, including a list of bonuses, commissions on sales, service charges, or other sources. Congressional candidates in Virginias 11th district debate issues ahead of special election Councilmembers Lewis George, Nadeau, Parker and White voted no on the amendment. The restaurant industry is an incredibly volatile industry. That has been true before and after I-82. It is a high-risk, high- risk venture, not for the faint of heart, said Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis George. We need to prioritize helping restaurants adapt rather than continuing to make sacrifices at the expense of the workers who keep this economy strong. It is not within our ability to remove all risk from the restaurant industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Initiative 83, which was passed overwhelmingly by voters in November 2024, will introduce ranked-choice voting. However, it is only funded for the upcoming general election, not the primary, after Councilmember Brooke Pintos amendment failed. Other issues included the Council having to cut $30 million on Monday because D.C.s chief financial officer said it needed to be set aside for any overspending. Funds are being cut from the pay equity fund, affordable housing trust fund and more. The Council did prioritize the programs that are being cut, setting up plans on how to re-fund them if the money becomes available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Montgomery County council member proposes new bike safety legislation We used to lead the nation in terms of access to health care and, thats being rolled back. Were seeing that both on the local level and the national level, Mendelson said. There were a lot of cuts the mayor proposed to environmental programs, I mean, I think its fair to say devastating the environmental programs and those we were not able to restore, most of them. Mendelson is pleased that school funding is stable, with more money for education, as well as good funding for public safety. Theres definitely stuff to be happy about, but theres also stuff that is very worrisome; some structural issues in the funding over the course of the financial plan, Mendelson said. There are a lot of social service programs that were reduced. And how thats going to play out, dont know. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) A D.C. man was sentenced to 35 years in prison for a murder that took place in 2020, officials announced Monday. The U.S. Attorneys Office (USAO) for the District of Columbia said that 33-year-old Dennis Chase will spend 420 months in prison. Evidence stated that Chase was driving around the Washington Highlands neighborhood while the victim, Anthony Orr, was riding in the passenger seat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The USAO said that while Chase slowly drove down Xenia Street SE, he fired a lethal shot into Orrs head. He then pushed Orr out of the car and drove off. During trial testimony, Chase said that he acted out of self-defense. DC police investigating after man dies in Southwest stabbing; victim identified, suspect in custody Chase then drove to Severn, Md., where he tried to light the car on fire in the woods. Officials said that he then hiked through the woods, found a random home, stripped down and hid his clothes and evidence, and then knocked on the door to ask for help. The homeowner called 911, and responding officers with the Anne Arundel County Police Department arrested Chase on an unrelated warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Metropolitan Police Department later charged Chase with Orrs murder. A jury found Chase guilty of first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm in October of 2024. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is looking for persons of interest and a vehicle of interest in a crash that left a motorcyclist dead on Sunday. On Sunday, July 20, MPD officers responded to 51st Street and Southern Avenue in Southeast for the report of a crash. Police believe that the motorcyclist was driving west along the 5100 block of Southern Ave. SE. A pickup truck was at the stop sign in the 800 block of 51st St. SE when it started to turn left onto Southern Avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pickup truck stopped partway through the turn, and the motorcyclist hit the side of the pickup truck. Man killed in Laurel shooting identified, $25K reward offered for information When responders arrived, they found the motorcyclist unresponsive in the road. First responders took him to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. MPD identified the motorcyclist as 50-year-old Billy Earl Canty of Southwest D.C. Police said that the involved pickup truck was a black and gray 2003 Ford F-150 with Virginia tags THP-6421. (Image courtesy of the Metropolitan Police Department) (Image courtesy of the Metropolitan Police Department) (Image courtesy of the Metropolitan Police Department) MPD shared the above images of the persons of interest and the pickup truck. Anyone with any information is asked to call 202-727-9099 or text 50411. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Photographs by union workers inside the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families Providence headquarters are on display at the State Properties Committee meeting on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. (Photo by Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current) Two days before the deadline for the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) to renew the lease for its Providence headquarters, the state panel tasked with approving a 10-year agreement requested more time Tuesday so it can review a last-minute air quality report and schedule a public hearing. Two dozen people packed the second floor Department of Administration conference room for a special meeting of the State Properties Committee. The meeting only lasted 20 minutes, but the agenda did not allow for public comment on whether the state should continue to lease the building at 101 Friendship Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lease is up on Nov. 30. But July 31 is when DCYF needs the committees approval, or else it must start looking for a new headquarters somewhere else. Ahead of the meeting, SEIU Local 580 president Matthew Gunip whose union represents roughly 300 of the 460 DCYF workers in the building set up a collection of photographs, most printed at around 2 to 3-feet high, taken inside the building in the capital citys Jewelry District. Images included water leaking from a ceiling, a rotting rat inside of a trash bag, and black specks surrounding an air vent. And thats what was going on in the office as of Friday, he told Rhode Island Current. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DCYF Chief of Staff Misty Delgado took photos of the unions visual aids on her phone and told the committee that officials would look into it and see if its valid. The reality is a lot of this is theatrics, she said as the union workers in attendance groaned. The committee voted unanimously to continue approval of the proposed 10-year lease in order to schedule a public hearing. No date was announced as of Tuesday. As you can see theres quite a bit of public interest in this, said the committees chairman, Marco Schiappa. Officials for DCYF and the Department of Administration first sought the approval of a new decade-long lease from the State Properties Committee on July 22, but the panel instead continued the matter to have more time to review a two-page 2023 air quality report it received the night before. In the week since, Schiappa said more has come to light. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We received this morning a brand new air quality report, which clearly we have not been able to decipher, he said. Indeed, Deputy Attorney General Adi Goldstein told Rhode Island Current after the meeting that the new five-page report was delivered only five-minutes before the panel convened. Lawyers enjoy the fine print ,and thats not really enough time, Goldstein said. The report stated that the DCYF headquarters was operating at safe and acceptable levels of particulate matter. At this time our testing confirmed that there is no action necessary regarding Indoor Air Quality, it stated. SEIU Local 518 President Matthew Gunnip speaks to the crowd of roughly two dozen people attending the State Properties Committees July 29 meeting. The union is opposed to seeing the panel renew a 10-year lease for the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families Providence headquarters. (Photo by Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current) Committee members still have some concerns over the state of the building, citing recent grievances filed by union workers organized under SEIU Local 580. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A recent union survey found nearly 86% of respondents did not want the buildings lease to renew when it ends on Nov. 30, 2025, due to problems with the buildings aging interior. The most commonly cited issues involved odors and poor air circulation along with infestations by insects, mice and other rodents populating the buildings five floors.. This is a long lease, said committee member Nicholas Vaz, special assistant attorney general to Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha. Its 10 years in a building, and we need to make sure that were taking over a building thats safe. Delgado maintained that the departments Providence headquarters is up to snuff. The building is healthy, the building is safe, she told Vaz. We understand that there are certain circumstances that have arised that we have addressed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because the committee postponed a decision on the renewal Schiappa acknowledged that DCYF will likely not meet its deadline, but suggested the department could negotiate new terms with its landlord in the interim. That will have to be negotiated with the landlord at this point, he said. The agenda for Tuesdays meeting lists the owners as Provident Property, LLC, headquartered in New York City. But a receptionist for the company said in a phone call that the property was no longer managed by Provident, referring Rhode Island Current to the number of BruMa Realty located in the Bronx. A representative for BruMa did not immediately respond to request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Delgado called the committees postponement unfortunate. But Goldstein said the state has the obligation to protect its workers and can easily negotiate a new lease. Its not too much to ask, she said. DCYF Director Ashley Deckert joined Delgado and Adam Boudreaux, the Department of Administrations chief property manager, in appearing before the committee. Deckert only asked a question on which air quality report required additional clarification. She left before the meeting adjourned. Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families Chief of Staff Misty Delgado, center, speaks before the State Properties Committee during its special meeting on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. At left is Adam Boudreaux, the Department of Administrations chief property manager. At right is DCYF Director Ashley Deckert. (Photo by Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current) Updated to note DCYF Director Ashley Deckert briefly spoke during the meeting. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX (Reuters) -The first word of a deadly shooting spree during rush hour in Midtown Manhattan on Monday came into the New York 911 system at 6:28 p.m. (2228 GMT) and more calls soon flooded in, according to a detailed recount of the shooting that left at least five dead, including the gunman. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch told a press conference that surveillance video showed the suspected gunman, Shane Tamura, leave a double-parked black BMW on Park Avenue between 51st and 52nd street. Carrying an M4 rifle in his right hand, Tisch said he crossed to the building's entrance. Surveillance video then showed Tamura enter the lobby, "turn right and immediately open fire on an NYPD officer." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tamura, a 27-year-old from Las Vegas who appears to have driven across country over three days to New York, next shot a woman taking cover behind a pillar, "and proceeds through the lobby, spraying it with gunfire," Tisch said, in terse recap of the shooting. Tamura encountered his next victim as he made his way to the elevator bank, "where he shoots a security guard who was taking cover behind the security desk." Another male was also shot in the lobby, Tisch said, citing a statement from the victim from the hospital. Tamura, whom Tisch has been told by Nevada police has a history of mental illness, then summoned an elevator. When it opened, a woman stepped out and walked past him, unharmed, Tisch said. Tamura then entered the elevator, riding it to the offices of real estate firm Rudin Management on the 33rd floor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once there, "he begins to walk the floor, firing rounds as he traveled." "One person was struck and killed on that floor," Tisch said. Lastly, Tamura "proceeds down a hallway and shoots himself in the chest." "In total, we have five innocent victims ... four innocent civilians and our police officer." (Reporting By Dan Burns; Editing by Frank McGurty and Michael Perry) SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) An 82-year-old inmate at San Diego Central Jail died Monday, authorities said. Around 8:40 a.m., sheriffs deputies and a facility nurse were distributing medication when they found the man unresponsive in his cell, the San Diego County Sheriffs Office said in a news release. First responders were called to the scene and performed lifesaving measures on the man, but he was pronounced dead at the detention facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pedestrian fatally struck by vehicle in Chula Vista The man, whose identity is being withheld pending notification of his family, was facing charges for mayhem, assault with a deadly weapon and elder abuse, according to authorities. He had been in sheriffs custody since May 27. The individual was also pending a court hearing related to his mental competency The Sheriffs Homicide Unit is conducting the investigation as per protocol for all in-custody deaths. The Medical Examiners Office will determine the cause and manner of his death. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. Israeli forces have killed at least 60,034 Palestinians since the war on Gaza erupted in October 2023, according to the enclaves Ministry of Health. The grim milestone was reached on Tuesday, as the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a global hunger monitoring system, warned in a new report that the worst-case scenario of famine was unfolding in Gaza. Medical sources told Al Jazeera that at least 83 Palestinians, including 33 aid seekers, have been killed since dawn, despite pauses in fighting to deliver essential humanitarian aid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local accounts indicate that Israel used booby-trapped robots, as well as tanks and drones, in what residents describe as one of the bloodiest nights in recent weeks, said Al Jazeeras Tareq Abu Azzoum, reporting from Deir el-Balah in central Gaza. This is a sign of a possible imminent Israeli ground manoeuvre, although Israel has not yet confirmed the objectives of the attack, he said. Interactive_60,0000 killed in gaza_July 29_2025 Food consumption has sharply deteriorated, the IPC said in its report, with one in three people going without food for days at a time. Latest data indicates that famine thresholds have been reached for food consumption in most of the Gaza Strip and for acute malnutrition in Gaza City, it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amid relentless conflict, mass displacement, severely restricted humanitarian access, and the collapse of essential services, including healthcare, the crisis has reached an alarming and deadly turning point. Malnutrition rose rapidly in the first half of July, with more than 20,000 children being admitted for treatment for acute malnutrition between April and mid-July. More than 3,000 of them are severely malnourished. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, citing the IPC report, demanded that aid deliveries no longer be blocked or delayed. The facts are in and they are undeniable, Guterres said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Palestinians in Gaza are enduring a humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions. This is not a warning. It is a reality unfolding before our eyes. The trickle of aid must become an ocean. Food, water, medicine, and fuel must flow in waves and without obstruction, he said. This nightmare must end. Ending this worst-case scenario will take the best efforts of all parties now. Guterres once again called for an immediate and permanent humanitarian ceasefire, the unconditional release of all captives and full access for humanitarian agencies across the enclave. The IPC alert comes against the backdrop of its latest analysis released in May, which projected that by September, the entire population of Gaza would face high levels of acute food shortages, with more than 500,000 people expected to be in a state of extreme food deprivation, starvation and destitution, unless Israel lifts its blockade and stops its military campaign. Interactive_60,0000_killed_Gaza_BurjKhalifa Israels genocidal war on Gaza and humanitarian blockade, which it partially lifted in March, continues to plunge the Palestinian territory into an increasingly dire malnutrition crisis, as at least 147 people, including 88 children, have died from malnutrition since the start of the war, Gazas Health Ministry said on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starvation is affecting all sectors of the population, with Sima Bahous, the executive director of UN Women, saying that 1 million women and girls in Gaza face the unthinkable choice of starving or risking their lives while searching for food. This horror must end, Bahous said in a social media post, calling for unhindered access of humanitarian aid into the Strip, the release of captives and a permanent ceasefire. Meanwhile, Israeli forces are still firing at aid seekers near distribution points run by the controversial United States-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Palestinians here still do not have any other options other than going to the GHF points in Netzarim, Al Jazeeras Hind Khoudary, reporting from Deir el-Balah, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres a crowd of people here who have been injured and shot at as they were trying to get food from that area. Also on Tuesday, the United Kingdom carried out its first airdrop of aid into Gaza, with Prime Minister Keir Starmers office saying the aid is containing around half a million pounds worth of lifesaving supplies. The announcement followed statements from Starmer saying that the UK will recognise the State of Palestine in September unless Israel takes substantive steps to end its war on Gaza and commits to a lasting peace process. French Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot announced that Paris will airdrop 40 tonnes of aid into Gaza in close coordination with Jordan. Rights groups have warned that airdropping aid into the enclave is inefficient and dangerous, reiterating calls to open border crossings. Babies particularly affected Medical staff at Gazas hospitals are seeing babies severely malnourished, without muscles and fat tissue, just the skin over the bone, the director of paediatrics and maternity at Nasser Hospital, Ahmed al-Farra, told Al Jazeera. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The long-term consequences of malnutrition for babies, infants and children are severe as they are still developing their central nervous system during the first three years of their lives, said al-Farra. Babies who have been malnourished will not have the required folic acid, B1 complex and polyunsaturated fatty acids that are essential for the composition of the central nervous system. Al-Farrah said that malnutrition can affect future cognitive development, make it hard for a child to read and write and lead to depression and anxiety. Tanya Haj Hassan, a doctor with Doctors Without Borders, also known by its French initials MSF, explained that serious health risks remain even after food becomes available again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reality is, the problem doesnt end when the food arrives malnutrition impacts all aspects of the bodys function, Hassan told Al Jazeera. All of the cells in your body are altered by this. In the intestines, the cells die. That results in issues with absorption, with bacteria. Your pancreas struggles; absorbing fats is difficult. Your heart cells become weak and thinned. The connections are impacted, the heart rate slows. These children often die of heart failure, even when theyre being re-fed, she added. They also have life-threatening shifts in salts; these can also lead to fatal heart rhythms. Theyre more prone to sepsis and shock, the doctor said, in reference to oral rehydration salt solutions, which are usually administered to people suffering from malnutrition. [Patients can face] low blood pressure, skin lesions, hypothermia, fluid overload, infection, vitamin deficiencies that can affect vision and bone. U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Ann Arbor) campaigns for President Joe Biden at an event in Canton, Mich., on June 30, 2024, that Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm also attended. (Photo by Andrew Roth/Michigan Advance) This story was originally reported by Jennifer Gerson of The 19th. Meet Jennifer and read more of her reporting on gender, politics and policy. Content warning: This story contains graphic depictions of domestic violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Debbie Dingell doesnt want to talk about this, but Im here in her office because she says she needs to. Dingell grew up in Michigan and had what she describes as a comfortable childhood. Her father owned a business. Her mother was a member of Michigans famous Fisher family, whose company became part of what is now General Motors. But her father also was addicted to prescription drugs and suffered from mental illness. He was paranoid. You just never knew what his mood was going to be and so he would just trigger. It all came to a head on what Dingell described as the night that I just really was convinced we were all going to die. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dingells father had a gun, and her mother had bought one of her own to protect herself. A fight broke out between the two and I got in the middle of them, Dingell recalled. I tried to keep them from killing each other. My mother ran out of the house. He took the door knobs off of every door, so that we kids couldnt get out. I tried to call the police. He ripped the phone out of the wall not that anybody would have come anyway, the way they do today. So we hid in a closet and we didnt know if we were going to live or die. At the time, Dingell was in middle school. Her baby sister was set to start first grade in the morning. Dingell walked her to school that next day, both pretending nothing had ever happened. Her younger sister, Dingell said, was forever traumatized. She was never OK. This all was happening from the time she was born. She died of an overdose years later, something Dingell continues to connect to the impact of that night, and of years of experiences like it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Which is why, though she doesnt like to talk about it, she will when she thinks its important, when she thinks her story might have the opportunity to change things, to shine a light, to ensure that another family can get the resources they need to reclaim their future. Its why shes talking to me today, even if she doesnt really want to. Shes talking to me because I wanted to hear more after we spoke in early June about a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi critical of the administrations actions to roll back resources and protections for survivors of domestic violence and because she thinks it will help. For many reasons, you just didnt talk about it. You didnt want your family stigmatized, you didnt want yourself stigmatized. Theres always been a stigma associated with domestic violence, Dingell tells me. People think it doesnt happen in good homes I dont know whats a good home, by the way or happen in certain families or in certain places, but it happens anywhere. For many reasons, you just didnt talk about it. You didnt want your family stigmatized, you didnt want yourself stigmatized. But at some point for me, for a long time, I always tried to figure out, how do you keep this down inside when there are guns getting into peoples hands in times when that shouldnt happen? Dingell has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2015, after she ran for and won the seat vacated by the retirement of her husband Rep. John Dingell, the longest-serving member of Congress in U.S. history, who died in 2019. Shes a former executive as well as an experienced Democratic operative, a connector and convener of people. Dingell is also widely known for her frank, direct speech see her public spats with President Donald Trump. Since joining Congress, she has become one of the clearest, most consistent voices speaking out about the need to support survivors of domestic violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes been talking about her childhood experiences with domestic violence since 2016, when her longtime friend John Lewis, the civil rights legend and new colleague in the U.S. House, took her by the hand during the 26-hour sit-in Democrats had staged at the Capitol to push for a vote on new gun safety legislation. John Lewis knew my story and said, Tell it. It wasnt planned. It wasnt rehearsed. It was in the middle of the night. And I got up and told the story. I never know what Im going to say. I never pre-planned. I just talked about it in the minute there, Dingell told me on a Monday afternoon in July as we sat opposite each other in arm chairs in the Cannon House Office Building, surrounded by paraphernalia from her home-state and photos with political power players through the years. My sister was like, If we could prevent anybody from going through what we went through, then we have a moral responsibility.' It wasnt until that House speech that she had ever even used the term domestic abuse to describe her own experiences, Dingell said. When she did, she was shaking like a leaf, she recalled. But she understood why speaking up was important. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My sister was like, If we could prevent anybody from going through what we went through, then we have a moral responsibility. They were words that have helped empower her to talk about her experience multiple times on the House floor in her 10-year tenure. But still, Dingell said, she and her surviving siblings dont really ever discuss what happened to them. Dingells mother is alive, as are her brother and one sister, and she feels discomfort talking about a story that she says isnt wholly hers. When you grow up in this kind of situation, you learn to cope. You want to go on with your life. You dont want to be demonized, or have that happen to your sister or your brother, Dingell said. Thats why I feel this probably isnt my story to tell, nor should I really be talking about it. You just want to make a difference in peoples lives and you want to move on. You dont want to remember. Domestic violence is real. Domestic violence happens in every kind of family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The making a difference part means speaking honestly and frankly about domestic violence with the microphone she has in Congress. Domestic violence is real. Domestic violence happens in every kind of family. She worries people will ask why her mother didnt leave and wants to protect her. I did not ask, but Dingell went ahead and answered the question: You know, in those days, people said, Stay together. The Catholic Church told you to stay together. So kids stay in situations where they shouldnt stay. She hopes her story can provide a kind of reference point for anyone navigating a similar situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parents have to understand that when a child is in that kind of unstable, dangerous situation, it is not the best for the child. That would be one message I would have. And the other message is that when someone is unstable, when they have mood swings, when it can all just change in an instant, being armed in that situation is a dangerous situation. Its these two things that have driven so much of Dingells legislative work in the area. Dingell established the Bipartisan Working Group to End Domestic Violence, bringing together a group of House members to identify ways to strengthen resources and protections for survivors. There was the letter to Bondi urging the Trump administration to reinstate funding opportunities through the Department of Justices Office of Violence Against Women (OVW) that provide critical resources and support to domestic violence survivors. (This funding was ultimately revived, though with new restrictions.) Another letter, to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., expressed deep concern about staff and budget cuts to programs that support survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their families. Half of this is just awareness and we need to go for that. Thats what Im doing right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was a key voice in helping the House pass the 2019 updates to the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which included two provisions she authored. One was the bipartisan Zero Tolerance for Domestic Abusers Act, which closed loopholes that made it possible for perpetrators of dating violence and those convicted of misdemeanor stalking to legally access guns. The other strengthened the health care systems identification, assessment and response to domestic violence, sexual assault and dating violence survivors, helping them better access behavioral health and safety resources. Dingell is particularly concerned about the way the Trump administration has delayed and restricted funding for the kinds of community-centered groups that provide services to women and children. She pointed to whats happened in Detroit, where nonprofit support organizations worked for years to raise funds to build a shelter with 85 beds for domestic violence survivors. Now the future of the federal funding the shelter was relying on is unclear, putting its ability to operate in question. Its just one example of why shes once again choosing to talk about her personal experience with domestic violence now. Im working with the groups. Weve had bipartisan conversations. Youre going to write an article. Half of this is just awareness and we need to go for that. Thats what Im doing right now. These community-based resources, she said, are essential to helping children in particular. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I thought I needed to call the police because I thought we were going to die. But I dont think many children, especially younger children, understand that there are other resources there, she said. This is why you educate teachers and people who work in emergency rooms, in case a childs had a bone thats been broken. Thats what you have to do you have to raise community awareness. Though Dingell doesnt care to talk about her personal experience with domestic violence, she does care about action and change especially in the form of practical resources for other survivors. I dont spend a lot of time thinking about it. For me, its just about trying to keep other people from having to go through what we did and for mothers and fathers there are men that are victims too to know that there are resources. I want to make sure that there still are places that people can go so that we dont make it so that people have to stay in those kinds of situations. We have to raise our voices, collectively, across the country, and say, We have to get this fixed.' The other thing that Dingell wants to talk about is hope. If we give up and we dont have hope, then then its all gone. So Im gonna give up? No. When we come together, when we know that theres something thats not right, we have to raise our voices, collectively, across the country, and say, We have to get this fixed. Her model for practicing this kind of hope paired with deep conviction and action were the nuns who taught her at the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan. They are the women who continue to inspire her today, she said. The nuns taught me to be who I am, that I can be anything I want. They taught me the values that I have, that I have a responsibility to my community. They taught me to be tough. So Dingell talks, even about things she doesnt want to remember, even in situations like this sitting with a reporter, a stranger to make sure her voice is heard. I want somebody to know there are people there to help them. I want someone to recognize that theyre in a bad situation and that they need support and their family needs support and that there need to be programs for them to get that support, Dingell said. I can remember talking to my priest when I was a kid in grade school, but nobody would do anything about it then because my parents were very generous contributors to the church and people didnt want to upset anybody. We have to be willing to tell the truth. We have to be willing to intervene. And we have to be willing to get people the help and resources they need. You can have a life. You can. And we have to help get you the resources so you can. She is introducing bills. Shes giving speeches. Shes doing whatever she can to call attention to the way the entire domestic violence safety net is at risk as a result of actions of the Trump administration. All of these things, though, are also ways for her to not dwell on her past and what she has survived. Im focused on living and helping people and helping people learn how to live through what we lived through, she said. Every person has strengths within themselves. Nobody has to put up with someone beating them or mentally abusing them or abusing them in any way. But we have to give people community places that people can go to get the help they need to escape it. We have to do the training in the community to identify where the problem is occurring, so that you can help get people out. She looked me squarely in the eye as she asserted what she wanted me to most know that day: Im not a victim. As my sister said, if we can help anybody escape what we went through, we should and thats why I talk about it. But why bring up memories that only will make me not sleep tonight? She was emphatic about the crux of her message: You can have a life. You can. And we have to help get you the resources so you can. Money seized from criminals has been used to pay for life-saving defibrillators to go in 10 West Midlands Police vans in what a campaigner has described as a "huge win". While the force already has defibrillators in firearms and traffic cars, it is now placing devices in vans used by its operational support unit, often for big events like sporting occasions and concerts. Supplied by first aid charity St John Ambulance, a spokesperson added that the devices were "designed for rapid deployment and ease of use, even in high-pressure situations". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Naomi Rees-Issitt, who has campaigned for all police vehicles in the UK to be equipped with defibrillators, has welcomed the move. 'Vital step' She set up the OurJay Foundation in memory of her 18-year-old son Jamie Rees, from Wolvey, in Warwickshire, who died after suddenly collapsing on New Year's Day. He could have lived, doctors later said, if officers or the public had quicker access to a defibrillator. She said the development was "a huge win for public safety and a testament to the power of community campaigning", adding: "Jamie's legacy lives on through initiatives like this." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ch Supt Sarah Burton, head of the operations unit, said it was a "vital step forward" in the ability of the force to respond to emergencies. "Our officers are often first at the scene of serious incidents and having defibrillators on board gives them the tools to act immediately," she said. The force used 10,750 secured via the Proceeds of Crime Act, where police seize money from criminal activity and reinvest it into crime prevention and community safety. Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. More on this story Related internet links At a May 10 protest in Shawnee of school district practices, anti-DEI signs line the curb. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Darrin Dressler video) TOPEKA Kansas lawmakers killed diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, practices in all forms of state government, including universities, after slipping a provision into the state budget. Ahead of the Aug. 1 deadline to abide by the provision, Kansas Secretary of Administration Adam Proffitt confirmed Tuesday that all state agencies, universities and contracts have eliminated positions, mandates, programs, activities, training requirements, grants and contracts related to DEI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kansas Department of Administration examined around 20,000 job titles across all state agencies, searching for key terms including diversity, equity, inclusion and DEI, Proffitt said at a meeting of the State Finance Council, which included Gov. Laura Kelly and legislative leaders. He said he is confident those positions dont exist. If they did, the people in those positions were reassigned, he said. The department also scoured state training requirements and contracts to ensure DEI was not part of them. Now, I want to be crystal clear, Proffitt said. Thats not to say that some entities that we contract with dont also provide DEI services, but the intent of this proviso was to ensure that those werent required within contracts with the state of Kansas. Proffitt coordinated with Blake Flanders, president of the Kansas Board of Regents, to implement the provisions, including a statewide email signature policy requiring employees to remove gender identifying pronouns or gender ideology from email signature blocks on state employees email accounts and any other form of communication. Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, requested that Proffitt investigate Kansas State Universitys diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging committee to ensure compliance with the provision. The results of that investigation are expected at the councils next meeting. Conestoga Capital Advisors, an asset management company, released its second-quarter 2025 investor letter. A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. The second quarter began with a historically poor start but gained momentum later as tariff fears subsided and market volatility dropped precipitously. Conestoga Mid Cap Composite returned 3.46% net-of-fees in the quarter, trailing the Russell Mid Cap Growth Indexs 18.20% return. After a strong first quarter in 2025, investor enthusiasm shifted towards high-beta and AI stocks following the "Liberation Day" announcements, creating a narrow leadership group that posed challenges for the Mid Cap Strategy in the second quarter. Please review the fund's top 5 holdings to gain insight into their key selections for 2025. In its second quarter 2025 investor letter, Conestoga Capital Advisors highlighted stocks such as Mettler-Toledo International Inc. (NYSE:MTD). Mettler-Toledo International Inc. (NYSE:MTD) is a precision instruments manufacturer. The one-month return of Mettler-Toledo International Inc. (NYSE:MTD) was 4.62%, and its shares lost 16.46% of their value over the last 52 weeks. On July 28, 2025, Mettler-Toledo International Inc. (NYSE:MTD) stock closed at $1,261.03 per share, with a market capitalization of $26.208 billion. Conestoga Capital Advisors stated the following regarding Mettler-Toledo International Inc. (NYSE:MTD) in its second quarter 2025 investor letter: "While Mettler-Toledo International Inc. (NYSE:MTD) remains a best-in-class operator with leading market share in precision weighing and analytical instruments, macroeconomic pressures across its end markets continue to constrain its ability to achieve the mid-teens earnings growth it has delivered historically. China represents a high-teens percentage of MTDs revenue, and ongoing US-China tensions create an additional headwind, limiting visibility into a return to historical growth rates in the region. Given these dynamics, we exited our position and redeployed the proceeds into investments with clearer long-term growth trajectories." Is Mettler-Toledo International Inc. (MTD) the Best Scientific Instruments Stock to Buy Right Now? A close-up of a laboratory instrument, with a technician making precise adjustments. Mettler-Toledo International Inc. (NYSE:MTD) is not on our list of 30 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 48 hedge fund portfolios held Mettler-Toledo International Inc. (NYSE:MTD) at the end of the first quarter, compared to 50 in the previous quarter. In the first quarter of 2025, Mettler-Toledo International Inc. (NYSE:MTD) reported sales of $884 million, which reflects 3% decline in local currency. While we acknowledge the potential of Mettler-Toledo International Inc. (NYSE:MTD) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. Frontline Response has received $750,000 in support toward a $1.2 million expansion to help the homeless community in DeKalb County. Lowes Home Improvement and Spry Global contributed $750,000 in materials and labor toward the expansion of Frontline Responses facility at 2585 Gresham Road. Spry Global, a full-service construction firm, will serve as the projects builder. The expansion of the facility will feature all-gender private restrooms and expanded modern showers, onside medical and mental health exam rooms, a walk-up community cafe, dedicated space for service pets, and expanded sleeping capacity that will increase the number of bed for individuals and families from 260 to nearly 400. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Lowes and Spry Globals generosity reflects the heart of what it means to lead with compassion, said Will Butler, Executive Director of Frontline Response Georgia. This donation doesnt just enhance our facility it transforms the lives of the men and women who rely on it for hope, healing, and a fresh start. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to its website, since 2006, Frontline Response has assisted nearly 1,500 victims out of sex trafficking and transitioned over 1,000 people out of homelessness. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A Delaware County man is facing federal charges following a child sex abuse investigation. The U.S. Attorney's Office said Brent G. Trimbell, 44, of Hobart, has been charged with sexual exploitation of a child. The criminal complaint alleges Trimbell exchanged sexually explicit messages with a young girl, including messages persuading her to create and send him videos of her engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The victim created the content Trimbell requested and sent it to him over social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trimbell is also accused of having sexual contact with the victim on at least three occasions and sending the victim videos of him masturbating. More: This deadly Binghamton house fire case ended in mistrial. What stumped jurors? Trimbell was first charged by the Delaware County Sheriff's Office on July 17 with first-degree rape, two counts of third-degree aggravated sexual abuse and endangering the welfare of a child. After his arrest, the ongoing investigation revealed Trimbell sent at least six videos or images of a "pornographic nature" to the child. On July 23, Trimbell was charged with an additional six counts of disseminating indecent material to a minor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a July 29 news release, the Delaware County Sheriff's Office said the Federal Bureau of Investigation and members of the Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force executed a federal search warrant on Trimbells cell phone, revealing additional evidence that led to the federal charge. On the evening of July 27, the Delaware County Sheriffs Office Special Response Team, along with K-9 units and deputies, assisted federal agents in locating Trimbell at a residence in the Town of Bovina. If convicted of sexual exploitation of a child, Trimbell faces a maximum sentence of 30 years and a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison. He also faces a term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life, a fine of $250,000, forfeiture of property used to commit the offense and restitution to the victim. Trimbell would also be required to register as a sex offender. Trimbell was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending further proceedings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trimbell's first arraignment at the Delaware County CAP Court sparked confusion when Town of Walton Judge Michael Rippa set bail at $1 and Trimbell was released from custody that day. Following his release, Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond said in a statement it is "impossible to logically determine why the defendant was released on $1.00 bail." "This shocks the conscious and is a disgrace concerning the protection and well-being of the defenseless victims of these crimes, innocent children," DuMond said. Rippa did not respond to a request for comment July 29. This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Delaware County man facing federal child sex charges had initial bail set at $1 The tongue is a sword, and dozens of Delaware's roaming restaurants want you to slice your way through their menu items seasoned for slaying. We are on a mouthwatering mission this summer, seeking to find the First State's best food truck. What started as 40 wheel warriors have since boiled down to roving culinary bosses, as Round 3 of the Delaware Food Truck Frenzy runs from July 29 to Aug. 3. Let's roll through how this delicious battle works: Each week, five mobile kitchens rumble in a friendly cook-off, but only one from the group will advance based on reader votes. Once the top eight street-food slingers have secured their spots, the final voting begins, and readers will praise the one truck they believe is Delawares fiercest food fighter. Chew on this: Delaware opening set for Philly's hottest cheesesteak shop, Angelo's Pizzeria Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This battle began July 15, and readers can now vote for their favorite food truck each week, Tuesdays through Sundays, until one winner is chosen. With Round 2 in the rearview, here's a look at who survived that round, contestants for Round 3, and more. Who survived Round 2 of Delaware Food Truck Frenzy? Delaware Provision Company is the winner of Round 2, becoming the second truck in the contest to sew up a spot as one of the Top 8 finalists in the Food Truck Frenzy, along with The Plum Pit Food Truck (from Round 1). The Top 8 will fight it out after Round 8 ends. Meanwhile, the feisty trucks that got eliminated in Round 2 are FlavorD-ish, Bul Jang BBQ, Changing Mains, and BlueHen BBQ. Welcome to Round 3 of Delaware Food Truck Frenzy: Who will battle? The Turbo Mexico food truck serves Hispanic dishes that make your eyes happy. The food truck is competing in Round 3 of the Delaware Food Truck Frenzy contest, and voting runs from July 29 until Aug. 3. Turbo Mexico is one of your go-to spots for Mexican food lovers. Beyond offering finger-licking tacos, the menu also has tamales, empanadas, nachos, enchiladas, quesadillas, burritos, fajitas and other options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bubs Grub's would be happy to meat you, if you pulled up. These protein producers whip up chicken tender baskets, chicken parm, cheesesteaks, juicy bacon burgers, and other menu items designed to win over your tastebuds. 9 new restaurants: Includes hot new concept, hot chicken franchise, cheesesteak king Love That Plate has something youve never tried before: jerk chicken cheesesteak. This mobile kitchen also offers a Rasta Salmon cheesesteak. Other menu items include burgers, crispy chicken wings, buffalo chicken tenders, sausage and fried whiting platters. Grandpa Mac in Rehoboth doesn't just have a food truck, they have a "Mac Truck." The Rehoboth restaurant, owned by brothers Orion and Hari Cameron (Hari competed on Netflixs Snack vs. Chef), has a truck available for events. Grandpa Mac offers customizable items and lots of mac-and-cheese treats like mac panini, fried mac and vegan mac bowls. Other items include buffalo wraps, spaghetti and meatballs, soups (tomato and spiced chick peas), fried cauliflower and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement La Casa de Lulu is a gem where you can have breakfast burgers (two three-ounce patties served over egg, hashbrown and American cheese), plus tacos (fish, chorizo, chicken, shrimp), nachos, torta sandwiches, burritos and more goodness. The Top 32 contestants remaining in Delaware Food Truck Frenzy Cup 'R Cone is one of the Top 32 competitors that's still alive in the 2025 Delaware Food Truck Frenzy contest. If you have an interesting story idea, email lifestyle reporter Andre Lamar at alamar@gannett.com. Consider signing up for his weekly newsletter, DO Delaware, at delawareonline.com/newsletters. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware food trucks cook up tasty fun in Round 3 SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) A co-pilot on a Delta Airlines flight from Minneapolis to San Francisco who was arrested upon landing at San Francisco International Airport has been identified. According to the Contra Costa County Sheriffs Office, Rustom Bhagwagar, a 34-year-old Florida resident, was arrested at SFO Saturday night for alleged sex crimes against a child. Former Kis Cafe chef apologizes to local social media influencer According to law enforcement, Bhagwagar has been booked on five counts of oral copulation with a child under 10 years old. He is being held on $5 million in bail, sheriffs office officials said on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff Investigation Division have been investigating Bhagwagar since April. They secured a Ramey arrest warrant for him and learned he was due to fly into SFO prior to Saturdays arrest. Following the arrest, in which at least 10 officers were seen charging the cockpit of the plane, initial reports indicated the charges were related to child sexual abuse material. Rustom Bhagwagar (Photo: Contra Costa County Sheriffs Office) The flight, Delta Airlines Flight 2809, had just touched down from Minneapolis when Homeland Security agents and Contra Costa County Sheriffs deputies boarded the plane. Passengers aboard the flight posted video online showing federal agents walking up the aisle of the plane. A Delta spokesperson on Sunday deferred comment to law enforcement. However, on Monday, an airline spokesperson told KRON4 that, Delta has zero tolerance for unlawful conduct and will fully cooperate with law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are appalled by reports of the charges related to the arrest and the individual in question has been suspended pending an investigation, they added. The arrest was made as part of an investigation by the Contra Costa County Sheriffs Office, a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) official told KRON4. HSI assisted, but federal agents were on the scene primarily to give Contra Costa County deputies access to the plane to make the arrest. Bhagwagar, who reportedly once resided in the East Bay, was booked into Martinez Jail. The Contra Costa County Sheriffs Office said the investigation remains ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Associated Press contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Brief A Delta co-pilot arrested Saturday on a flight from Minneapolis shortly after it landed in San Francisco is in custody on suspicion of "sex crimes against a child." A 34-year-old Florida man was arrested at about 9:35 p.m. Saturday on the Delta plane, with the help of Homeland Security Investigators and is being held at the Martinez Detention Center in lieu of $5 million bail. The suspect has not yet been charged. MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Authorities have released more details on a Delta co-pilot arrested Saturday night after flying from Minneapolis to San Francisco for allegedly committing sex crimes against a child. Delta pilot arrested What we know Officials with the Contra Costa County Sheriffs Office say at about 9:35 p.m. PT Saturday, a 34-year-old Florida man was taken into custody, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations, on suspicion of five counts of oral sex with a minor under 10 years old. Hes being held in the Martinez Detention Center in lieu of $5 million bail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities say the investigation started in April after receiving reports of sex crimes against a child. The arrest The backstory Passengers reported seeing multiple federal agents push into the cockpit and arrest a Delta co-pilot on-board a flight from Minneapolis, shortly after it landed in San Francisco on Saturday night. A passenger, who is related to a FOX 9 staffer and happened to be on the flight, recounted that the federal agents told passengers to stay in their seats as they pushed through first class and into the cockpit. The co-pilot was handcuffed and pulled off the flight by the agents, some of whom were identified as Homeland Security investigators. Delta responds What they're saying Officials with Delta Airlines released a statement to FOX 9 Monday about the arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Delta has zero tolerance for unlawful conduct and will fully cooperate with law enforcement. We are appalled by reports of the charges related to the arrest and the individual in question has been suspended pending an investigation," the statement reads. The Source This update was written from a press release from the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office in California. Delta co-pilot arrested on child porn charges after flight from Minneapolis to San Francisco originally appeared on Bring Me The News. A Delta Air Lines co-pilot was arrested on child porn charges following a Sunday night flight from Minneapolis to San Francisco, according to federal authorities. A senior Department of Homeland Security official confirmed on Monday that a pilot was arrested at the San Francisco International Airport on child sexual abuse material charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Delta has zero tolerance for unlawful conduct and will fully cooperate with law enforcement," the Atlanta-based airline said in an emailed statement to Bring Me The News. "We are appalled by reports of the charges related to the arrest and the individual in question has been suspended pending an investigation." Passengers told local TV stations including KABC that federal agents boarded the plane and "stormed" the cockpit when the plane landed just after 9:30 p.m. on Sunday. A spokesperson for Homeland Security Investigations told the Bay Area's NBC station that federal agents were helping the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office with the arrest warrant. Colin Brown, Flickr This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 28, 2025, where it first appeared. A Delta Air Lines co-pilot arrested just moments after landing at San Francisco International Airport Saturday for alleged child sex crimes has been identified. Flight 2809 from Minneapolis to SFO touched down less than 10 minutes behind schedule, only slightly delayed by poor visibility due to fog in the Bay Area. Before passengers were even able to deplane the Boeing 757, authorities with the Contra Costa County Sheriffs Department and agents with Homeland Security Investigations stormed to the front of the aircraft and arrested 34-year-old Rustom Bhagwagar, the co-pilot, KTLAs sister station KRON reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Passengers, many of whom captured cellphone footage of law enforcement making their way to the front of the plane, described the incident as shocking. A group of people with badges, guns, and different agency vests/markings were pushing their way up through the aisle to the cockpit, one passenger told the San Francisco Chronicle. None of the flight crew were apparently aware of the ongoing investigation and impending arrest of their colleague, who is a resident of Florida. The remaining pilot, who can be seen in an image posted by the travel outlet View from the Wing watching the incident unfold from inside the cockpit, reportedly said he had no idea what was happening. Delta pilot Rustom Bhagwagar, 34, a resident of Florida, was arrested moments after landing in San Francisco on July 26, 2025. (Contra Costa County Sheriffs Dept.) Sheriffs investigators confirmed to KRON that Bhagwagar had been under investigation since April. A warrant for his arrest was issued and authorities learned he was expected to land at SFO prior to Saturdays arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man ejected from Knotts Berry Farm for alleged racial slur loses water district job Federal agents, according to the outlet, were primarily on hand to provide sheriffs investigators with access to the plane so that they could arrest the 34-year-old. Bhagwagar was booked at the Martinez Jail on five counts of oral copulation with a child under 10 years old and is currently being held on $5 million bail. While Delta declined to comment on the arrest over the weekend, a spokesperson for the airline on Monday released a statement to KRON, saying: Delta has zero tolerance for unlawful conduct and will fully cooperate with law enforcement. We are appalled by reports of the charges related to the arrest and the individual in question has been suspended pending an investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Republican Jack Ciattrelli and Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill will face off in November in the governor's race. (Photos by Reena Rose Sibayan/Amanda Brown) A new poll of the New Jersey governors race finds Rep. Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat, leading Republican Jack Ciattarelli by eight points, with 16% of respondents still undecided. The Fairleigh Dickinson University poll of likely voters has Sherrill ahead of Ciattarelli 45% to 37%. The two are squaring off in November to succeed two-term Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat who cant seek a third term in the fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Republicans have been narrowing the gap, there are still more Democrats than Republicans in the state, and Ciattarelli needs to start pulling in more independents and Democrats if he wants to win, said Dan Cassino, a Fairleigh Dickinson professor and the polls director. A Rutgers-Eagleton poll from earlier this month gave Sherrill a 20-point lead. Republicans have viewed polls of the race with skepticism, noting that polls released in the weeks before the 2021 governors race when Ciattarelli tried to unseat Murphy showed Murphy with big leads, though his winning margin ended up being just three points. Results from the new Fairleigh Dickinson poll reveal why Ciattarelli, a former state assemblyman, has been intent on shifting focus to local issues, despite Sherrills push to tie him to President Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After respondents were initially asked which candidate they preferred, they were randomly assigned questions about either local or national issues. Respondents were then asked again about their vote choice. Those in the local framing group answered questions about NJ Transit, energy policy, farmland development, flood prevention infrastructure, the states response to extreme weather, and rising energy bills. The national framing group was asked about Trump, including his job approval, the federal budget bill, and immigration enforcement. The results showed notable shifts among independents. Questions about local issues helped Ciattarelli by 7% by moving some voters who had been unsure into his corner (there was no significant change among Democrats or Republicans). National issues decreased Ciattarellis support among independents by 4%, with those voters shifting from supporting him to saying they were unsure, though reminding respondents about national issues strengthened his support among Republicans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The more nationalized this race is, the worse Ciattarelli does overall, Cassino said. Ciattarelli has mocked Sherrill for her frequent Trump-bashing on the campaign trail, but Cassino said this tactic has no downside for Sherrill. A Rutgers-Eagleton poll from earlier this month put Trumps approval rating among New Jerseyans at 30%. Ciattarelli is walking a fine line with Trump: he needs to consolidate Trump supporters, but do so without making the race too national, or turning off voters who dont like whats happening in Washington, Cassino said. The poll surveyed 806 registered New Jersey voters and has a margin of error of +/- 3.9 percentage points. Public perception of Israel has plummeted to a new low in the United States, particularly among Democrats. And yet the party continues to cut the country a blank check to carry out its genocide of Palestinians in Gaza, lagging sorely behind its voter base on the issue. A new poll from Gallup, conducted in July, shows that only 32 percent of Americans approve of Israels military action taken in Gaza, down 10 percentage points since last September. Among Democrats, only 8 percent support Israels actions, the lowest approval rating to date. Compare that to 25 percent of independents and a robust 71 percent of Republicans. The poll also saw Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu receive a negative rating from the majority of Americans for the first time since 1997, with only 29 percent of the country viewing him positively. These numbers reflect a new reality in U.S.-Israel relations, and the Democratic Party must act accordingly if it wants to be successful. As New York City Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani showed, mindless capitulation to Israel is no longer a prerequisite for Democratic voters. If party leadership was actually in touch with its base, itd be baking aid to Gaza and funding cuts to the Israeli military into the foundation of its campaigns. Only time will tell if theyll wake up and capitalize. WASHINGTON Democrats are dropping their bids to run for the open Senate seat in North Carolina, clearing the way for former Gov. Roy Cooper in what the party views as its best chance to flip a seat in the upper chamber next November. Cooper formally launched his Senate bid on Monday, making official what Democrats had hoped for months: that the political powerhouse who has previously bested Republicans in close statewide elections can deliver the party a much-needed win. Coopers candidacy comes as Republicans continue to search for a nominee in what is likely to be one of the most competitive Senate races in the 2026 cycle. Right now, our country is facing a moment as fragile as any I can remember, and the decisions we make in the next election will determine if we even have a middle class in America anymore, Cooper said in an announcement video on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The long-expected Senate run has already shifted the tide for Democrats, with other interested candidates announcing they would withdraw from the race to instead back Cooper. Former Rep. Wiley Nickel, who announced his own candidacy in April, said he would suspend his campaign on Tuesday morning, just one day after Cooper entered the fold. I proudly endorse Governor Cooper for US Senate and look forward to doing everything I can to help him flip this Senate seat from red to blue, Nickel said in a statement. Ive still got a lot of work left to do; that part hasnt changed. Public service is a part of who I am and youll hear more from me soon. Rep. Don Davis, D-N.C., has also considered a run for the Senate seat, although Coopers presence in the race now makes it unclear if hell formally launch a bid. North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper greets people, Oct. 3, 2024, in Boone, N.C., in the aftermath of hurricane Helene. | Chris Carlson Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., announced in June that he would not run for reelection, surprising many of his Republican colleagues and setting the stage for what is considered one of the most competitive races of the midterm cycle. The seat is rated as a tossup by the nonpartisan Cook Political Report and Democrats view it as their best opportunity to flip a Senate seat in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RNC co-Chairman Michael Whatley is reportedly planning to launch a bid after co-chair Lara Trump announced last week she would not throw her hat in the ring. No Republicans have officially announced as of Tuesday. There are 35 seats up for reelection in the Senate next November, with 13 currently held by Democrats and 22 held by Republicans. Of those, seven will be open seats after the incumbent announced they would not run for reelection. Tillis is among the most competitive, along with the Michigan seat currently held by Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich., who was the first to reveal he would not run for another term in January. Peters seat is also considered a tossup. July has brought the return of the meme stock moment, led by frenzied activity in Opendoor (OPEN), Krispy Kreme (DNUT), GoPro (GPRO), and GameStop (GME). Don't count eToro co-founder and CEO Yoni Assia as surprised. "I think generally the rise of retail investors is a huge trend," Assia told me on Yahoo Finance. "We are still at the beginning of what we believe is the largest transformation of wealth in human history from older generations to younger generations." Assia is using the summer retail investor reawakening to push eToro's business into new territory. eToro said Tuesday it would debut 24-hour, five-day-a-week trading on 100 of the most popular stocks and ETFs in the market. Several names include Apple (AAPL), Alphabet (GOOGL), Nvidia (NVDA), Boeing (BA), JP Morgan (JPM), Ford (F), Alibaba (BABA) and Coinbase (COIN). The company will join rival Robinhood (HOOD) in trying to convince lawmakers to make stock trading around the clock. "I think 24/7 is probably going to take longer simply because the markets themselves are usually closed over the weekend, and there's still liquidity issues," Assia explained. "I think 24/5 is happening now in 2025 and 2026, and it's gradually happening across asset classes and also happening with more and more stocks available for 24/5 trading." The company also announced spot-quoted futures. It teased the launch of US-listed equities as tokens on the ethereum blockchain. eToro priced its IPO in mid-May at $52 a share, above the planned range of $46 to $50. The company raised about $310 million in the offering. Today, the stock trades around $62.50, giving the company a market cap of $5.2 billion. It has more than 40 million registered users. Robinhood and Interactive Brokers are valued at $95 billion and $111 billion, respectively. eToro was co-founded in 2007 in Israel by Yoni and his older brother, Ronen Assia. Yoni has said the company was started in his parents' garage. Ronen sits on the management team and is an executive director. The company quickly grew from its inception as new investors entered a bull market, initially raising $1.5 million at a $5 million valuation. It launched bitcoin trading in 2013, around the time of the crypto winter that depressed digital asset values. Brian Sozzi is Yahoo Finance's Executive Editor and a member of Yahoo Finance's editorial leadership team. Follow Sozzi on X @BrianSozzi, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Tips on stories? Email brian.sozzi@yahoofinance.com. Click here for the latest technology news that will impact the stock market Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Democrats must center their political arguments around rising costs since President Trump took office so their struggling party can capitalize on his dismal polling numbers, political strategists tell The Hill. Relatable messaging on affordability is how Democrats can criticize Trump effectively and show voters that they represent the interests of working-class Americans, many of whom supported the president during the 2024 presidential election. They must shift from the usual broad-stroke statements that have previously fallen flat with voters. Instead, the message should be tailored to the price of specific items like beef or timber that have spiked during the early months of the Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Talk about the price of beef, said Republican strategist Susan Del Percio, who doesnt support Trump, adding that the approach mirrors a strategy the president took during the campaign last year to defeat then-Vice President Kamala Harris. Just like Donald Trump talked about eggs, its more than talking about the economy. Its making it relatable, and nothing is more relatable than hamburgers and a barbecue. As fall inches closer, Democrats need to telegraph that message in town halls, in interviews and on social media to reach mass audiences in purple and even red districts, strategists say. Every minute of every day should be spent talking about rising costs, said one Democratic strategist who has been in conversations where affordability has been the central topic of how Democrats find their way out of the wilderness. Every second thats not spent on talking about affordability, were losing the argument. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats say they are trying to seize upon the opportunity now, when Republicans are divided on the controversy surrounding Jeffrey Epstein, which has dominated the headlines this month, putting Trump and Republican lawmakers on defense. But some strategists are wary of how much Democrats need to emphasize messaging, even with 2026 midterms on the horizon. Messaging is not necessarily the determining factor in midterm elections ever by the party out of power, seasoned Democratic strategist Garry South said. It is a referendum on the party in power. Trump has stumbled on issues including tariffs and immigration, weakening his position from when he entered office more than six months ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This week, a Silver Bulletin poll conducted by pollster Nate Silver showed that Trumps approval ratings steadily decreased from 52 percent to 44 percent during his first four months in office. And in recent months, the same poll revealed that Trumps approval ratings have hovered in the mid-40s, some of their lowest levels across his two terms. In the past two weeks, separate CNN-SSRS polling and Quinnipiac University polling have shown Trumps approval ratings as low as 42 percent and 40 percent, respectively. In recent days, some Republican lawmakers have sought to cocoon themselves until the Epstein storm passes, further inviting Democrats to fill the void. [Republicans] are scared of their voters. Theyre scared of the president, Democratic strategist Basil Smikle said. Go in areas where Republicans wont go, in areas where Republicans are. But countermessage. You may not win every day, but you may get a few voters to pay attention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are a lot of independents that are souring on the president and on the administration, and I think thats where theres opportunity, Smikle added, referring to voters who can move the needle for Democrats in future election cycles. There are not going to be many Republicans that Democrats are going to get, so this is really about independents. Even in the first six months of the Trump presidency, Republicans have given Democrats a gift in terms of strategy and messaging, Democratic operatives say. And while Democrats had traditionally gone after Trump himself in recent cycles, operatives say they should take aim at the Republican Party as a whole. They should talk about how Republicans are focused on protecting the president while the dangers of the big ugly bill are looming, Smikle said. That, I think, is probably the most salient message here, that some of the most wealthy and powerful in this country are not just hoarding the money, they are also protecting themselves with tax cuts in the big, beautiful bill. Smikle added that Democrats need to follow that up with alternatives to Republican policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Democrats] have got to offer something in return. Theyve got to give voters an opportunity to vote for something as opposed to just against something. Other strategists say that right now, the best thing Democrats can do is not interfere and let Trump continue driving his approval ratings into the ground. Based on the Napoleonic principle that one should never interfere with an enemy when hes in the process of destroying himself, Im not sure theres a lot Democrats proactively need to do, South said. He added that midterms have historically been throw-the-bums out elections that reflect exclusively the party in power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans have that trifecta, the White House, the Senate, the House, and theyre going to pay a price for it in 2026 no matter what Democrats do. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. WASHINGTON (AP) Senate Democrats reintroduced a bill Tuesday to restore and expand protections enshrined in the Voting Rights Act of 1965, their latest long-shot attempt to revive the landmark law just days before its 60th anniversary and at a time of renewed debate over the future administration of American elections. Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia unveiled the measure, titled the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, with the backing of Democratic leaders. The bill stands little chance of passage in the Republican-led Congress, but it provides the clearest articulation of Democrats' agenda on voting rights and election reform. The legislation would reestablish and expand the requirement that states and localities with a history of discrimination get federal approval before changing their voting laws. It would also require states to allow same-day voter registration, prevent voters from being purged from voter rolls if they miss elections and allow people who may have been disenfranchised at the ballot box to seek a legal remedy in the courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democracy is the very house in which we live. It is the framework in which we get to fight for the things that we care about, Warnock said. These last seven months have reminded us that we ought not take any of it for granted. We are literally in a fight for the life of the republic. Warnock was joined by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sen. Dick Durbin, the top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee, as well as Sens. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, Cory Booker of New Jersey and Alex Padilla of California. The senators were flanked by dozens of activists, including voting rights advocates, environmental campaigners, faith leaders and union organizers. The reintroduction comes at a precarious moment for the Voting Rights Act. The enforcement mechanisms of the law have been removed or hampered by two decades of court rulings and lapsed congressional reauthorizations. And an unusual push by Republicans in several states to redistrict congressional maps five years ahead of schedule has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the law in protecting voters. State lawmakers have enacted dozens of laws in recent years that voting rights activists argue restrict access to the ballot, especially for people of color, poorer communities and people with disabilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schumer promised that Democrats would fight fire with fire to protect voting rights. And Warnock warned of an authoritarian movement that is afoot right now in our country, before denouncing a special session called by the Texas legislature to redistrict the states legislative and congressional maps. President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans are backing the effort, which they hope will net the GOP several seats in the House of Representatives and help them hold the House majority. Democrats first introduced the updated Voting Rights Act in 2021, when the party had unified control of Congress. The bill came in response to several years of states enacting restrictive voting laws following the Supreme Court's 2013 ruling in Shelby County v. Holder, which struck down the section of the Voting Rights Act that required some states to seek federal approval for legislative maps and election policies. The bill passed the House twice in that Congress but failed to pass the 60-vote filibuster threshold in the Senate. Rep. Terri Sewell of Alabama reintroduced a House version in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill is named after John Lewis, the longtime Democratic congressman and civil rights activist who died in 2020. Warnock represents Lewis' home state, while Sewell represents Selma, Alabama, the city where Lewis organized during the Civil Rights movement and was bludgeoned by state troopers during a peaceful protest on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, known as Bloody Sunday. A picture of Lewis was positioned behind the senators as they spoke about the bill. Blumenthal, the Connecticut Democrat, said that Lewis' stare is unrelenting. Hes going to hold us accountable. ___ Democrats are retaliating against President Trumps broad assault on their most cherished policy priorities by turning the Senates confirmation proceedings for relatively noncontroversial executive branch nominees into pitched partisan battles, forcing Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) to burn up the calendar on routine matters. Battling over nominees isnt new in Washington, but Senate Democrats, who are under heavy pressure from their base to show more fight against Trump, are taking obstruction to new heights by demanding more than 100 procedural votes in a row on Trumps nominees. Senate Democrats agreed to move directly to a vote to confirm then-Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) as secretary of State only hours after Trump was sworn in to his second term in office, but since then, they have insisted on holding procedural votes to invoke cloture on the next 106 nominees who came to the floor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Democrats obstruction, which Republicans say has reached a historic level, is setting the stage for a grand showdown later this week, as Thune is threatening to cancel part of the August recess to keep senators in steamy Washington to grind through stalled nominees. Republicans say the Democrats tactics are a significant departure from how Republicans treated President Bidens nominees during the four years Democrats controlled the White House and Senate, when approximately 60 percent of Bidens nominees were approved by unanimous consent. And its even a striking contrast compared to Trumps first term, Republicans say, when approximately 50 percent of Trumps nominees were approved by unanimous consent. Democrats have not allowed a single civilian Trump nominee to pass by unanimous consent or voice vote even when Democrats have ultimately ended up supporting the nomination in significant numbers, Thune said on the floor Monday afternoon, calling it a historic level of obstruction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He pointed out that Trump is the only president on record not to have a single one of his civilian nominees confirmed by unanimous consent or voice vote at this point in his presidency. By contrast, Biden had 44 of his civilian nominees confirmed by voice vote at a similar point in his presidency. A spokesperson for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) fired back: Historically bad nominees deserve historic levels of scrutiny. Republicans say Democrats are setting a dangerous precedent by purposely dragging their feet on confirming even noncontroversial nominees, hamstringing the presidents ability to get federal departments and agencies staffed up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And they warn that the next Democratic president could get a taste of that treatment unless Senate Democrats led by Schumer ease up on their tactics. Its a whole new precedent, and what goes around comes around, Thune said Monday afternoon. Theres a lot of Trump derangement syndrome that is afflicting the other side of the aisle, but if they keep this up, this is not going to end well. I just think this creates a whole new precedent. For example, take John Hurley, Trumps nominee to serve as Treasury Department undersecretary for terrorism and financial crimes. He was confirmed last week by a party-line vote of 51-47, failing to pick up a single Democratic vote despite having a sterling resume and top-notch academic credentials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hurley, a managing partner at Cavalry Asset Management and managing member of TGK Ventures, had been a longtime lecturer at the Stanford Graduate School of Business, a former member of Trumps Intelligence Advisory Board and a member of the Middle East Institutes board of governors. He also graduated from Princeton University with honors and received an MBA from Stanford. This is the least amount of cooperation since Herbert Hoover. Why is that? I remember supporting packages [of nominees] before recesses with the Biden administration, 40, 50, 60 nominees in one package, Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) said. Why is it? We all know why. Schumer got burned during the [government funding debate]. His left wing is telling him to fight and now theyre blocking every single nom, he added. Sullivan said he confronted his Democratic colleagues during the votes on Hurley. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Look at his background. I went up to all these Democrats and said, You guys, come on, man. I voted for all these Biden people, most of his Cabinet. You cant vote yes on John Hurley? Sullivan said. Trump urged Thune earlier this month to cancel August recess (and long weekends!) in order to get my incredible nominees confirmed. Senate Democrats must stop obstructing the will of the American people, and the Senate must confirm President Trumps nominees as quickly as possible, said Liz Huston, a White House spokesperson. Schumer defended his bare-knuckle tactics Monday, pledging to use every tool at our disposal to fight back against what he called the disastrous Donald Trump, Republican agenda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats argue Trump is creating dangerous new precedents by appointing Cabinet officials, such as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who they say are dangerously unqualified and dedicated to pushing radical agendas. And theyre furious Trump gave Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency broad authority to furlough and lay off federal workers, shutter the United States Agency for International Development and gain access to the Treasury Departments sensitive payments system. Democrats, who are struggling with low job approval ratings, are under heavy pressure from liberal voters who want congressional Democrats to grind Trumps agenda to a halt. Schumer was the target of scathing criticism in March after he voted for a partisan House GOP-drafted government funding bill, which he did reluctantly because he was worried that a government shutdown would give Trump and Musk too much power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thune is now threatening to cancel part of the August recess if Democrats continue to drag out the process on even the most uncontroversial nominees, warning we can spend a lot more hours with each other in the Senate chamber. Thats not a happy prospect for senators who have already taken more votes in 2025 than the Senate has taken over the course of a full year for 32 of the past 36 years. Thune canceled the traditional Presidents Day recess in February to confirm Howard Lutnick as Trumps secretary of Commerce, Kash Patel to be FBI director and to pass a Senate budget resolution. Democrats at times have forced votes on the routine business of moving from legislative session into executive session, a necessary step before Thune can file cloture motions to begin considering nominees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Democrats forced a vote on the motion to proceed to executive session to consider Emil Bove, Trumps nominee to serve on the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals. Democrats dug in their heels against Bove, citing the allegations of a Department of Justice whistleblower who said the nominee urged federal attorneys to defy court orders blocking the use of the Alien Enemies Act. Democrats earlier this month walked out of Judiciary Committee business meeting to protest Boves nomination. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) accused Bove of leading the administrations corrupt bargain to dismiss charges against New York Mayor Eric Adams (D). But even nominees who would be considered relatively noncontroversial in the past are requiring procedural setup votes and final votes split strictly along party lines to get confirmed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senators held 17 votes either procedural set-up or final confirmation votes last week on Trump nominees, burning up hours of time on the floor. If Democrats keep it up, Thune warned Monday, the August recess will get trimmed back. We havent ruled anything. The options are on the table, he said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. DENVER (KDVR) A Denver metro area charter school is closing its doors ahead of the 2025-2026 school year, citing budget woes. Colorado Skies Academy was a tuition-free public charter school based in Englewood on the grounds of the Centennial Airport. It was set to welcome children for the next school year beginning Aug. 11. Now, parents are scrambling to find education for their children. My world has drastically changed: Mother shares message for parents after toddler drowns Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The closure was announced in an email on Friday, and the schools website is now entirely taken up by a letter and FAQ section. Despite every effort over the past year to secure additional funding and stabilize our budget, we are no longer financially able to operate the school, Colorado Skies Academy said on its website. After careful consideration and a thorough review of our financial outlook, our Board of Directors has made the incredibly difficult decision to close the school, effective immediately. The announcement was made on Friday, July 25. The school said it will host a family information meeting at the school on Wednesday, July 30, at 6 p.m. The school said this would be an avenue to help families navigate the next steps. During this session, we will provide guidance, answer questions, and share specific school options and resources to support your childs continued education, wrote Christa Coryell, school leader, along with Dana Kirchmar, board secretary, in a post on the schools website. Colorado law allows families to enroll in schools outside their home district, and we will share specific optionsincluding nearby CSI-authorized schoolsas soon as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The school said that families must enroll in a different school for the year, and said that the Colorado Charter School Institute and Colorado Skies Academy will help identify options. See the latest traffic conditions in Denver on FOX31 Administrative staff is set to remain for a limited time at Colorado Skies Academy to assist with records and closure-related questions. Educational records can be requested from the academy by Aug. 29 by contacting Coryell at christa.coryell@coloradoskiesacademy.org. After the charter school closes, the Charter School Institute will maintain access to records and will assist with future information requests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The academy also said it would send educational records directly to each students new school once enrollment is confirmed. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. DENVER (KDVR) Another round of e-bike vouchers from Denver is set to be released on Tuesday. The citys e-bike rebate program offers a limited number of vouchers to Denverites every other month and can be used to cover the purchase of an e-bike or adaptive e-bike from a participating bike shop. Frontier flight arriving at DIA evacuated for unfounded threat: Officials As of July 25, the city said 9,820 vouchers have been redeemed through the program, including 27 rebates claimed for adaptive e-bikes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday morning, the city will release another round of vouchers to be claimed by qualifying applicants. How to apply for Denvers e-bike rebate The city encourages applicants to create an account on the e-bike rebate portal in advance and log in when the vouchers are released at 11 a.m. There are rebate options for a standard e-bike or an adaptive e-bike: Standard e-bike Voucher covers up to $450 at any participating bike shop Applicant must have a household income below Denvers area median income under $98,100 for one person or under $140,100 for four people Adaptive e-bike: Voucher covers up to $950 at adaptive-specific shops Rebates for adaptive e-bikes can be accessed at any time Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The State of Colorado also offers an e-bike tax credit of $450, which can be combined with the citys vouchers. These are also available to those who do not qualify for the citys rebate program The city said that the program aims to make e-bikes accessible for all while eliminating greenhouse gas emissions. According to a release from the city, e-bikes from the program displace 4.1 million vehicle miles and eliminate 1,447 tons of greenhouse gas emissions each year, and in 2024, they replaced an estimated 1 million car trips. The next round of vouchers is set to be released on Tuesday, Sept. 30. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. DENVER (KDVR) Rain is making a return to Denvers weather forecast and will lead to a midweek cooldown. Weather tonight: More Clouds Monday night, clouds will stick around. More clouds plus a southwesterly shift in wind will keep temperatures in the mid 60s, which is about 5 degrees above normal for this time of year. FOX31 Weather: View the latest Denver forecasts, maps and radar Weather tomorrow: Afternoon storms, seasonal Tuesday, clouds will increase through the morning ahead of afternoon and evening showers. This will limit temperatures to the upper 80s, which is right in line with normal for this time of year. Looking ahead: Heavy rain, cooler midweek Rain chances increase both Wednesday and Thursday. Both days will see an increasing chance for rain and storms in the afternoon and evening, alongside much cooler temperatures reaching the lower 80s. Friday will start off with a mixture of sun and clouds, followed by the return of afternoon rain and storms. A few spotty rain showers are in the forecast Saturday afternoon as high temperatures return to seasonal levels around 90 degrees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then a hot, sunny and dry pattern settles in on Sunday and Monday Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. DENVER (KDVR) Not even 12 hours after telling one Denver womans story on FOX31, the flying machine was returned by a good Samaritan who said he recognized it after seeing the news report. Erica Masseys doorbell camera saw it all this weekend. On Saturday, it captured her $8,000 paramotor stolen off the porch on Saturday. On Monday morning, however, a different story. Denver woman devastated after $8K flying machine is stolen from her porch Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I feel like I kind of saw the worst in people and then immediately the best in people, said Massey. Against all odds, her paramotor made it home. Literally crumpled to the ground, I was in tears, she said. Different tears from Saturday, thanks to Dominick Armstrongs desire to beat the heat at work. I watch the news every day because I have to dress for the weather, said Armstrong. He said he saw a man dragging the box in a wagon near where he works for the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad, and when he got closer, he recognized the Fly Products logo mentioned in our story. I was already like, hold on, wait, let me see whats inside,' said Armstrong. Showed me what was inside, and I automatically knew where it came from. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox He was able to wrestle the wagon away and went to Masseys neighborhood, knocking on doors until someone knew the right house. I wanted her to direct me and take me to the house so I could show the people what I had obtained, said Armstrong. When Massey came to the door, Armstrong knew the paramotor was home. We need more people like that in the world, said Massey. Of the two stories told by Masseys doorbell camera, Armstrong hopes the second leaves a lasting impact. Over 110 animals rescued from Northglenn home: Heres how you can help Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You dont have to touch or steal anything, said Armstrong. All you have to do is go to work and obtain it the right way. Massey said that everything is in good condition, but two parts, the propeller and a small bag, are missing. She said those are much easier to replace than the motor that was returned, however, and plans to get flying in the next few weeks. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. The Osceola County Sheriffs Office is asking for the publics help finding a missing man. Peter-Jose Maldonado, 36, was last seen Sunday near Del Prado Drive in Poinciana. He may be traveling in a white Chevrolet van with the Florida license plate CJ19GT. Maldonado is described as having short black hair and brown eyes. He stands 5 feet, 9 inches tall and weighs about 200 pounds. The Osceola County Sheriffs Office urges anyone with information about Maldonados location to contact them at 407-348-2222. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies stress that community cooperation is crucial for ensuring the safe return of Peter-Jose Maldonado. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Deputies are asking for the publics help to identify a man captured on surveillance footage related to a credit card theft this month. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The credit card was allegedly stolen on July 12, according to the Montgomery County Sheriffs Office. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies are asking anyone who can recognize the suspect to call them at 937-432-2766. The Sheriffs Office has also urged the public to share the surveillance images to help in identifying the suspect. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Derecho live: Severe thunderstorm watch in Twin Cities, central Minnesota originally appeared on Bring Me The News. Monday is shaping up to be a significant severe weather day in Minnesota as forecasters warn of a possible derecho ripping across the southern half of the state. Despite the alarming potential of 100 mph winds, not everyone will get slammed and there's no guarantee that the bowing line of storms goes through the Twin Cities. The last time the National Weather Service hyped up a potential derecho, it happened June 20-21 when a line of storms blasted from North Dakota through northern Minnesota, with 100+ mph winds ravaging the Bemidji area. Here's a quick 1-2 punch showing today's severe weather zone and associated areas where wind damage is most likely, according to NOAA's Storm Prediction Center. The Twin Cities is in an enhanced risk, which is level 3 of 5 on the severe scale. Areas to the west and southwest are in a level 4 of 5 moderate risk. LATEST UPDATES Refresh this page for the latest updates 11:00 p.m. Severe warning in Rochester; damage reports A severe thunderstorm warning carrying the threat of 70 mph winds has now been issued in southeastern Minnesota, an area that includes Rochester. 11:01pm | Quick radar snapshot showing a mature line of severe storms dropping into southeast Minnesota and west-central Wisconsin. These storms have had a history of severe wind gusts around 60-70mph, strongest most recently from Owatonna into Goodhue County. Line moving to SE. pic.twitter.com/DDQnZCerSY NWS La Crosse (@NWSLaCrosse) July 29, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are a number of reports of downed trees and arcing power lines in the Twin Cities. Authorities are asking for patience as workers clear roads and repair lines. Hey IGH, Given the high winds and storms tonight, we are responding to a number of downed trees in the roadway. We appreciate your patience as we partner with our Public Works Department to clear the roadways. As always, please feel free to report these by calling 911. IGH-Police (@IGHpdMN) July 29, 2025 10:45 p.m. Warnings in southern Minnesota The worst of the storm appears to have passed the Twin Cities, but the warnings continue further south. Severe Thunderstorm Warning continues for Owatonna MN, Blooming Prairie MN and Medford MN until 11:15 PM CDT. This storm will contain wind gusts to 70 MPH! pic.twitter.com/jb8EPWB5tR NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) July 29, 2025 10:25 p.m. Over 105,000 without power in Twin Cities The outage totals continue to rise on the Xcel Energy map, now entering six figures as reports continue of trees downed by strong winds across the metro. 10:10PM Update: These storms are producing strong winds up to 70 mph, and there are several reports of downed trees stretching up from Mankato towards the Twin Cities metro. #mnwx #wiwx pic.twitter.com/d5NHdwIaI5 NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) July 29, 2025 Girlfriend observed a downed traffic light in Eden Prairie at Highway 212 and Prairie Center Dr #mnwx @MaxVelocityWX @NWSTwinCities Brett Marshall (@B_Marsh92) July 29, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LITTLE CANADA: Crews were dispatched for a tree that fell onto a mobile home on Little Circle Drive, in the North Star Estates mobile home park. There are no reported injuries. Dozens of other reports of trees down and power lines damaged or on fire have been received in the pic.twitter.com/yJAKc2KiTB MN CRIME (@MN_CRIME) July 29, 2025 10:15 p.m. Sirens sounding in Dakota County Weather sirens are currently sounding in Eagan and Apple Valley in the south Twin Cities metro due to the severe storm. The City of Eagan's website says it sounds the sirens when there is a risk of tornadoes or 70 mph winds. We have seen no tornado warnings so we can assume it's due to the wind threat. That said, we haven't heard any confirmation yet that residents in affected areas have received mobile alerts along with the sirens. 10:10 p.m. Warning continues in Twin Cities; 70 mph gusts possible The severe thunderstorm warning is continuing in the Twin Cities as stronger winds make their way through the metro, with the NWS warning that gusts of up to 70 mph are possible, as has been recorded in Jordan in the past half-hour. There is also a warning in effect for Rice, Waseca, Le Sueur, Blue Earth, and Steele counties, where 60 mph winds and tornadoes are possible. Severe Thunderstorm Warning continues for Minneapolis MN, Saint Paul MN and Bloomington MN until 10:30 PM CDT. This storm will contain wind gusts to 70 MPH! pic.twitter.com/qShOE2UawK NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) July 29, 2025 Further south, the NWS has just issued an extended severe thunderstorm watch until 4 a.m. for southeastern Minnesota including Rochester and the northern half of Iowa, where tornadoes, ping-pong size hail and 85 mph winds are possible. A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for parts of Iowa and Minnesota until 4 AM CDT pic.twitter.com/fqMvhOX1xe NWS La Crosse (@NWSLaCrosse) July 29, 2025 10:05 p.m. Almost 70,000 without power, flights diverted The Xcel Energy outage map was showing more than 68,000 households in the Twin Cities are currently without power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There's also a major impact on air traffic heading to MSP, with planes diverting away from the Twin Cities. A Delta flight from San Diego has been diverted to Des Moines, a Sun Country service from Anchorage is now landing in Rochester, while two other Delta flights from Chicago and Austin are now heading north to Duluth. 9:55 p.m. Severe storms moving through the metro The part of the line just southwest of the Twin Cities core appears to be showing signs of strengthening. It'll have to be monitored for damaging wind potential. 9:46 p.m. Extremely dangerous line of storms just south of the Minnesota border Northwest Iowa is getting hammered by what might be the line that turns out to be the derecho. Radar estimates show possible winds guesting to 120 mph, though the severe thunderstorm warning, which is dubbed an "extremely dangerous situation," says winds are gusting up to 80 mph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 9:41 p.m. Minneapolis in severe thunderstorm warning The warning is in effect until 10:30 p.m. The storm may produce 60 mph gusts and pea-sized hail, in addition to torrential rain and frequently lightning. Severe Thunderstorm Warning including Minneapolis MN, Saint Paul MN and Bloomington MN until 10:30 PM CDT pic.twitter.com/tQcY9j8foi NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) July 29, 2025 9:20 p.m. 60 mph wind gust in Hutchinson At 9:09 PM CDT, 2 SSW Hutchinson [Mcleod Co, MN] AWOS reports Tstm Wnd Gst of M60 MPH. Hutchinson airport. #mnwx https://t.co/Tk5cBllw3O pic.twitter.com/ruUiJnKX0F IEMBot MPX (@iembot_mpx) July 29, 2025 9:15 p.m. Line intensifying on approach towards the Twin Cities "Heads up, these storms are producing wind gusts up to 55 mph. Should they become more organized, a warning may be necessary as it moves into the northern Twin Cities metro," the National Weather Service said. Severe Thunderstorm Warning including Hutchinson MN, Waconia MN and Minnetrista MN until 10:00 PM CDT pic.twitter.com/rOzqmhjp3p NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) July 29, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 8 p.m. Storms move southeast towards Mankato and Twin Cities Storms are producing winds of up to 60 mph and hail up to nickel size in western Minnesota and continue to move southeast towards Mankato and the Twin Cities, where they're expected to hit between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. Monday. The broken line of storms continues to develop across parts of W MN, producing winds up to 60 mph and hail up to nickel size. Storms will continue to move southeast this evening, reaching a line stretching from Mankato up to the Twin Cities metro around 9-10pm. #mnwx #wiwx https://t.co/E8VfhU9DTJ NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) July 29, 2025 7 p.m. Severe thunderstorm watch A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect in the Twin Cities metro and parts of central Minnesota until 1 a.m. Tuesday. A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for parts of Minnesota until 1 AM CDT pic.twitter.com/FOyVHD3Knl NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) July 28, 2025 5:45 p.m. Thousands still without power after Sunday storm While Monday's possible derecho is taking the focus, the Twin Cities is still recovering from strong winds and torrential rain that arrived on Sunday evening. Xcel Energy says as of 5:30 p.m., there are still just under 7,000 households without power, most of them in the Twin Cities area. At its height, around 75,000 lost power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The utility says it has had around 1,000 line workers in the field restoring service on Sunday night and Monday. 5:30 p.m. Tornadoes reported in South Dakota There are several national storm chasing personalities currently on the ground in South Dakota, and severe weather is whipping up from the system that will later make its way into southern Minnesota. 3:49 p.m. It's begun in South Dakota The first severe thunderstorm watch of the day has been issued in eastern South Dakota and it's alerted the public to possible tornadoes and large hail, in addition to "likely" wind gusts up to 90 mph. Many of the key models, including the HRRR, NAM and RRFS, are suggesting storms from within the watch box will blast to the east across southern Minnesota and northern Iowa through the rest of the night. Take a look... Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 3:25 p.m. No big changes in SPC's outlook The Storm Prediction Center's 3 p.m. update to the severe weather outlook maintained all of the severe weather zones moderate and enhanced mentioned above. "Severe storm clusters are expected to form this afternoon in South Dakota and then spread southeastward into Minnesota and Iowa through tonight. Swaths of damaging winds, potentially 75-90 mph, a few tornadoes and isolated large hail will all be possible," the SPC says. 2:55 p.m. Minnesota River Valley the bullseye? "Right now, the guidance continues to favor a trajectory that follows the Minnesota River Valley where the instability gradient is sharpest, however there are still a lower percentage of [models] that continue to produce a line of storms over the Twin Cities by 8-10pm," reads the forecast discussion from the NWS Twin Cities. Furthermore, the NWS Twin Cities says models are all over the place with possible outcomes, but the "most likely" scenario is for storms moving into west-central Minnesota by 7-8 p.m. and "progressing quickly towards the east-southeast and reaching a line from Mankato to the Twin Cities" between 9-10 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The word Derecho has been used in the lead-up to this event, and it still seems applicable given the potential of the strongest wind gusts, however the entire line is not expected to see Derecho level winds," the NWS Twin Cities added. We have the variables in place to produce winds in excess of 80mph, however not everyone who sees storms will see the peak strength. The greatest risk extends from SD into SW MN. #mnwx #wiwx pic.twitter.com/xoT7mV8BCh NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) July 28, 2025 2:30 p.m. Sven Sundgaard on Minnesota derecho Here's Sven Sundgaard's 17-minute deep dive on today's derecho threat in Minnesota. Key points: SEVERE threat for potential derecho later this evening /overnight: MODERATE RISK (level 4 of 5) for severe storms south/southwest MN In addition to damaging wind gusts: large hail, isolated tornadoes (west) Temps and humidity drop after tomorrow making way for several pleasant days 2:00 p.m. 'Growing confidence' in severe storms In its latest update, the National Weather Service Twin Cities says it has "growing confidence" in severe storms this afternoon and evening, "moving from west-to-east across the region." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It says 'all severe hazards are possible," with damaging winds being the main threat. "There is potential for winds in excess of 75 mph with the strongest storms," it says. "Timing wise the shift has been towards more of an evening arrival in western Minnesota and late evening into the Mankato and Twin Cities areas, with the line expected to be progressively moving through the area within the matter of a few hours." 1:05 p.m. Sven Sundgaard on Midwest impact Sven is currently working on his Minnesota-specific forecast for Bring Me The News, but he's finished with his forecast looking at the wider potential for today's derecho on the Upper Midwest. Check it out: 12:20 p.m. Possible derecho path? The storms haven't even developed in the Dakotas just yet, but meteorologist Sven Sundgaard has identified an area via surface observations that could serve as the roadway for the severe line of storms. Notice how the arrow drawn by Sundgaard goes right through the SPC's moderate risk zone. Another view below reveals the CAPE (Convective Available Potential Energy), with Sundgaard identifying a possible storm pathway along the northern and eastern edge of the highest CAPE values. It's what the SPC weather experts refer to as riding the CAPE gradient. 11:35 a.m. 75-90 mph winds possible The Storm Prediction Center is now saying "severe storm clusters are expected to form this afternoon in South Dakota and then spread southeastward into Minnesota and Iowa through tonight." Those storms could contain "swaths of damaging winds, potentially 75-90 mph, a few tornadoes and isolated large hail." You can read the SPC's full discussion here. This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 28, 2025, where it first appeared. Woodside has agreed to take over the operatorship of the Bass Strait assets in Australia following an agreement with ExxonMobil Australia (ExxonMobil). This strategic move has the potential to unlock further development of additional gas resources. The Bass Strait assets include the Gippsland Basin Joint Venture (GBJV) and the Kipper Unit Joint Venture (KUJV). Both Woodside and ExxonMobil Australia hold a 50% participating interest in the GBJV and a 32.5% participating interest in the KUJV, with Mitsui holding the remaining 35% participating interest. Natural gas produced from the Bass Strait assets is entirely supplied to the Australian domestic market, currently meeting around 40% of domestic gas demand on the east coast of Australia, including New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria. Integrating the operatorship of the Bass Strait assets into Woodsides managed portfolio enhances the company's presence in Australia while leveraging its operational capabilities. Upon completion, Woodside will take over the offshore Bass Strait production assets, the Longford Gas Plant, the Long Island Point gas liquids processing facility and related pipeline infrastructure. Woodside and ExxonMobil's equity interests in the assets, as well as their existing decommissioning plans and provisions, will remain unchanged. Woodside EVP and COO Australia Liz Westcott said: Taking operatorship of Bass Strait demonstrates Woodsides continued commitment to meeting Australias domestic energy demand while maximising the value of existing infrastructure. As the new operator, Woodside will assume responsibility for asset planning and execution activities, implementing a value maximisation strategy aimed at enhancing production and improving reliability. This strategic initiative integrates Woodside's established global operational capabilities with ExxonMobil's skilled workforce in the Bass Strait, who will be transitioning to Woodside. Furthermore, taking on the operatorship of a larger portfolio of assets in Australia is expected to generate economies of scale and yield more than $60m (A$92.24m) in synergies for Woodside from the Bass Strait, after accounting for transition and integration costs. The agreement also provides flexibility to realise future development opportunities that align with Woodsides capital allocation framework. ExxonMobil Australia chair Simon Younger said: After operating the Gippsland Basin Joint Venture for more than 50 years, we are proud to be handing over the reins and transitioning our highly experienced Bass Strait workforce to our valued partner Woodside, a world-class operator. Continuing to quickly order executions, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday signed a death warrant for a man convicted of killing three people in 1992 in Orange County. Curtis Windom, 59, is scheduled to be executed Aug. 28 at Florida State Prison, according to the death warrant posted on the Florida Supreme Court website. Windom could be the 11th inmate executed this year in the state a record-breaking pace. The state is scheduled Thursday to execute Edward Zakrzewski for the 1994 murders of his wife and two children in Okaloosa County, and DeSantis has signed a death warrant to execute Kayle Barrington Bates on Aug. 19 for the 1982 murder of a woman in Bay County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zakrzewskis attorneys have gone to the U.S. Supreme Court to try to halt his execution. But if he is put to death by lethal injection, the state would break a modern-era record of eight executions in a year. That record was set in 1984 and 2014 and represents the period after the death penalty was reinstated in 1976 after a U.S. Supreme Court decision halted executions four years earlier. As with the earlier executions, the Windom death warrant and supporting documents were posted Tuesday on the Florida Supreme Court website without additional explanation from DeSantis. But one of the documents, a letter from Attorney General James Uthmeier to DeSantis, outlined the Windom shootings on Feb. 7, 1992. The document said Windom claimed that victim Johnnie Lee owed him $2,000. After finding out that Lee had won $114 at a greyhound track, Windom bought a .38-caliber revolver and ammunition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minutes later, Windom drove his car next to where Lee was standing and shot Lee twice in the back, the document said. He then got out of the car and shot Lee two more times at close range as Lee lay on the ground. It said Windom then ran toward the apartment of what the document described as his on-again-off-again girlfriend, Valerie Davis, and fatally shot her. After Davis mother, Mary Lubin, learned that her daughter had been shot, she left work and was driving down the street. When she stopped at a stop sign, Windom approached her car, said something to her, and then shot her twice, killing her, the Uthmeier document said. Another man, Kenneth Williams, was wounded in the shooting spree but survived. The state this year has executed Michael Bell on July 15; Thomas Gudinas on June 24; Anthony Wainwright on June 10; Glen Rogers on May 15; Jeffrey Hutchinson on May 1; Michael Tanzi on April 8; Edward James on March 20; and James Ford on Feb. 13. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: DeSantis signs death warrant in 1992 murders PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Deschutes County has tapped a new sheriff, just days after the incumbent was stripped of his certification amid a misconduct investigation. On Tuesday, the Board of Commissioners appointed Ty Rupert as new interim sheriff of the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office. He will replace Ken van der Kamp, after his certification was unanimously revoked by the Board of Public Safety Standards and Training last Thursday. Pearl District residents boo Wilson over homeless shelter Deschutes County Sheriff Kent van der Kamp, undated (Courtesy: Central Oregon Daily) Deschutes County Sheriffs Office Ty Rupert (Courtesy DCSO) Van der Kamp was already slated to resign from his role on July 31. The announcement came after the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training released a report that found he had lied under oath when claiming he attended the University of Southern California and the University of Arizona. Investigators also determined he had lied about his previous employment at a California police department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the report, Deschutes County District Attorney Steve Gunnels named van der Kamp to the Brady list which includes law enforcement officers who are believed to have credibility issues or a history of misconduct. His placement also means he can no longer be ethically called to testify in court. Van der Kamp was sworn in as sheriff in January, following his nearly 60% victory over competitor William Bailey in the November 2024 election. County officials reported that he had been with the sheriffs office for more than 20 years, with previous roles as a patrol sergeant, criminal detective and internal affairs investigator. The Oregon State Sheriffs Association has since voted to permanently expel him from the Board of Directors. Public safety advocates followed suit a month in June, launching a recall campaign for van der Kamp amid the scandal. The Deschutes County Sheriff Employees Association also directed him to pay back the money he received for legal representation amid last years election. Salem declares water emergency over Detroit Lake drawdown Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The county will vote for its next permanent sheriff in May 2026. I believe we need to give the Sheriffs Office employees a leader they can believe in and that they can trust and that they can get behind as they are trying to do their important work from day to day for the next 10 months, Commissioner Phil Chang said on Tuesday. Man of them have lived under a cloud, for not just the last seven months, for four years. A dark leadership cloud and its an incredibly important priority for me to change and give them someone tehy can again believe in and get behind. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. The News President Donald Trump raised eyebrows this week when he broke with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to declare apparent real starvation among children in Gaza. That may well be as far as the divide goes between the two men. While Trumps frustration with the devastation in Gaza is real, those closest to him argue against viewing Mondays remarks as a turning point in his approach to Israel. Allies and Trump aides also reject the notion that Trump is airing any new skepticism of Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., a close Trump adviser on national security, said the president is still very firmly in Israels camp. Opening the humanitarian corridors is good. Im sure theres all kinds of health problems in Gaza. Israels in a fight for its life, Graham told Semafor. Try to help as many people and guys as you can without rewarding the enemy, and Im hoping were turning that page in terms of the aid flowing. Sitting next to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday, Trump promised to help set up food centers in Gaza, adding that he disagreed with Netanyahus claim that theres no starvation. Children in Gaza look very hungry based on images hed recently seen on television, the president said, adding that its something you cant fake. The small but loud wing of Trumps party that has bristled at the close US-Israel relationship rejoiced: Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene wrote that its the most truthful and easiest thing to say that multiple aspects of the war are horrific, describing the situation in Gaza as a genocide. Longtime Trump ally and former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon told Politico that Trumps remarks would hasten a collapse of support for Netanyahus war in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But many other Republicans were less convinced that Trumps remarks meant much. Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., argued that Trump is simply frustrated with a humanitarian situation not moving away from Netanyahu. I think we all are [frustrated]. I think Israel is, but its going to be addressed, Kennedy told Semafor of the situation in Gaza. The president has been very supportive of Israel, much more so than President Biden. The presidents position has not evolved. The war has evolved, one White House official told Semafor. He hated seeing Israelis raped, killed and taken hostage on October 7, just as much as he hates seeing Palestinian women and children starving and begging for food. At the end of the day, he wants to be a peacemaker, and he wants to end suffering for all people. In fact, the president said on Tuesday that hes working together with Netanyahu. Know More Inside the administration, no one seems to be taking Trumps recent remarks on Gaza as a meaningful diversion from his previous approach. The president simply isnt a cookie-cutter conservative and therefore isnt a cookie cutter supporter of Israel, one person close to him said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes going to stand with Israel, a second administration official told Semafor, adding that Trump simply doesnt want to see kids starving or have to answer for every decision Israel makes in its war against Hamas. This is not Trump stepping back from Netanyahu, the official added. The speculation after Trumps Monday comments about starvation in Gaza stems from the difficulty of defining his policy decisions, which dont always fit neatly into an ideological box. One simple factor that may be influencing his reaction this week is his hatred for war and bloodshed, as often described by those close to him. And the Gaza-Israeli conflict has gone on long enough to weigh on the president and elected officials in both parties. The intention is to punish the terrorists and stop the terrorists, but the longer it goes on, and the longer children and populations are starving, the more you generate more terrorists. Its an endless cycle, said Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., a fixture in the partys non-interventionist wing. Its hard not to be sad, concerned, overwhelmed by the pictures from Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., a more hawkish member who talks to Trump often, said simply that no two allies agree 100% of the time. If you look at his background, he hates war, he hates suffering. So I think its consistent, Scott said. Trump and Netanyahu have a good relationship, in my experience, he added. Gaza isnt even the first time Trump has aired views that might, at first glance, appear at odds with other decisions hes made. Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, for example, Trump has held a wide variety of stances over the course of several months. Trump has gone from kicking Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy out of the White House in February to ramping up his criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin and sending more weapons to Ukraine this month. Shelby and Burgess View The overarching theme of Trumps most recent foreign policy moves is an effort to define himself as a peacemaker through strength in his second term (although hed never mention that Ronald Reagan used the same brand). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He bombed Irans nuclear facilities without stoking a broader conflict, for example. Trumps Israel comments demonstrated hes a more transactional operator than an adherent of any fixed doctrine on foreign policy. Perhaps most interestingly, his remarks prompted other Republicans some of whom previously avoided the topic to agree that children in Gaza are suffering and need help. Its another example of the party shifting toward whatever Trump focuses on and, in some cases, being given permission to exercise some daylight with Israel. There are elements of the Republican Party that arent comfortable supporting Israel, the person close to Trump noted. In a lot of ways, [Trumps] unpredictability is unifying, because there are people who are like, Ive kind of always thought that, but Im kind of too nervous to say it on the House floor. Room for Disagreement Democrats are rapidly mobilizing in reaction to the crisis in Gaza, seeking to take advantage of the appearance of daylight between Trump and Netanyahu. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forty-four of the 47 Democratic caucus members wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and presidential envoy Steve Witkoff on Tuesday urging them to advocate for a large-scale expansion of humanitarian assistance and services throughout the Gaza Strip. Notable MIAMI, Fla. (WFLA) Alligator Alcatraz is facing more legal trouble as a hearing was held Monday morning for the second federal lawsuit filed. Lawyers behind the class action lawsuit claimed they are barred from meeting their clients at Alligator Alcatraz, and some in cases, bond hearings were cancelled. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now 8 on Your Side Civil rights attorneys are seeking a temporary restraining order against the immigration detention facility. They claim their clients constitutional rights are being violated, and it comes as 100 detainees have already been deported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A second federal lawsuit challenging Alligator Alcatraz claimed that attorneys have gone to significant lengths to contact their clients, but are barred from doing so. During the virtual hearing on Monday, civil rights attorneys accused the government of restricting communication and violating detainees constitutional rights. This is absolutely a due process violation, said Danielle Hernandez, DVH Law Group managing partner. The Tampa-based immigration attorney is not part of the suit but fears her some of her clients could end up at Alligator Alcatraz. On Friday, the director of Floridas Division of Emergency Management said this: We should have our first set of onsite legal representation no later than Monday, said Director Kevin Guthrie. While in court, Gov. Ron DeSantis attorney said that has already begun. He told a federal judge in Miami the situation has evolved since the suit was filed on July 16, adding video conference rooms have been set up so detainees can talk to attorneys. The suit also claims a federal immigration court has canceled bond hearings. Nobody is taking jurisdiction over the cases of people being detained in Alligator Alcatraz, Hernandez said. Everyone is saying we dont have jurisdiction over this facility. DeSantis has called for the Justice Department to deputize national guardsmen as immigration judges to expedite and increase deportations. We have not yet had any approval for anybody to be able to come down here and do that, but we do anticipate that happening, he said. I dont know how somebody is going to get up to speed in a matter of a few days and start accurately providing due process, said Hernandez. Since Alligator Alcatraz opened a month ago, its still murky who has authority over the site. The judge allowed attorneys to argue for the release of any legal agreement between the state and federal governments. It comes as deportations continue. Weve had two or three removal flights, and well continue to have those removal flights, said Garrett Ripa with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The Miami-based judge presiding over the case did not make a ruling. He asked the attorneys to consolidate their pleadings and re-file. Another hearing has been scheduled for Aug. 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, environmental groups sued federal and state officials claiming the center was built on an airstrip in the heart of the everglades but didnt follow environmental laws. A hearing is set for Wednesday in the case to determine if the suit was filed in the correct jurisdiction. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. STAYTON, Ore. (KOIN) Some cities are staring down a future without water as the Army Corps of Engineers prepares to drawdown Detroit Lake next fall. The corps is planning the drawdown to help an endangered fish species that they said is at risk without intervention. They are also drawing down the lake to end hydropower production at the dam. But city leaders in Stayton said the drawdown is bad news for them as their main water source, the North Santiam River, flows out of the lake. Salem braces for drinking water shortage as Detroit Lake drawdown looms Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stayton City Council President Steve Sims said drawing down the lake so low will expose more sediment that the water will pick up. If too much sediment gets in the citys filtration system the city would go without water and sewer, but thats not all. Stayton City Council President Steve Sims, July 28, 2025 (KOIN) There are no fire hydrants that would operate, so we wouldnt have any ability to fight fires with our water system, Sims said. Itd have to be water trucks only, and wed have to fill up somewhere else. The city could pretreat their system, a project that Sims said could cost $20-30 million. But he said the city has only spent $13 million on their system over the last two years, and they do not have the kind of money for a pretreatment project now. Without help from somewhere, the projects cost will get passed on to the residents. The water portion of our bill, were doing some math, is about $40 a month for the average customer, and were talking adding $60, Sims said. So that would be $100 a month just for the water. That doesnt include sewer rates, either. So were talking a pretty significant increase for the average customer. The Detroit Dam in Marion County, July 28, 2025 (KOIN) Andria Allmond with the Army Corps said in a statement, We are committed to working closely with local governments, water utilities, and residents to mitigate the impacts of this drawdown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We understand the urgency of maintaining clean, reliable water supplies and are actively collaborating to ensure that human needs are not overlooked in our efforts to restore ecological balance. Crews continue to battle Burdoin Fire as hotter, drier weather returns We would have to know exactly what steps the Army Corps has taken each step of the way with the drawdown, where they are, Sims said. And wed like to see a slow draw down rather than a very rapid drawdown that would lower the turbidity. Sims said the city has not gotten a formal response from the Army Corps. But he said city leaders are working with their state senator and representative to find a path forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. The Brief Major delays at Detroit Metro Airport were causing massive headaches as intense storms hit Southeast Michigan. Massive flooding in Romulus and in tunnels leading to and from Detroit Metro Airport prompted major traffic backups and frustrating delays. ROMULUS, Mich. (FOX 2) - Monday's intense storms caused major delays at Detroit Metro Airport, and it was not just for people heading out of town. Big picture view There were just as many people trying to get home after landing at Detroit Metro as people trying to get out of dodge. One man added at least two hours to his road trip home to Novi after flying 30 hours from India. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massive flooding in Romulus and in tunnels leading to and from Detroit Metro Airport prompted major traffic backups and frustrating delays. Local perspective Sreeni Reddy zoomed with FOX 2 from his Uber ride home to Novi after a summer vacation in India. "Somebody at the airport came in and then said both of the tunnels are flooded so nobody can get in, get out of the airport," he said. "We cross seven oceans but not two tunnels, I guess. We booked an Uber ride and then the ride kept saying 7 minutes, 10 minutes and then kept changing. We didnt know what was going on." It unfortunately got worse from there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We were stuck at the airport for more than 90 minutes after nearly 30 hours of travel," Reddy said. What they're saying Detroit Metro sent notes out across social media, updating travelers on the situation, encouraging them to check with their airlines on any flight delays while on the ground. Ride-Share drivers like Edmond gave them their best shot, knowing customers would be pretty stressed due to the elements. "I was worried about my customers," said Edmond. "As the driver you are used to this waiting and traffic and stuff like that. And you know nature is nature. You cannot beat the nature." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the water has receded since Monday afternoon. There could be some residual delays. Make sure to check with your airline if you are flying out or picking someone out on Monday evening. The Source FOX 2 used information from previous reporting for this story. Tech startups and founders now have the chance to apply for as much as $50,000 in grant money to create jobs and stay in Detroit. City officials announced on July 28 the launch of the Detroit Startup Fund at Newlab Detroit at Michigan Central Station, a hub for mobility businesses in the Corktown neighborhood, and touted the initiative as the first of its kind. The new program supported by $700,000 of the city's general fund dollars approved by the Detroit City Council will award 26 grants across two rounds into next year, including $15,000 seed grants for 20 recipients and $50,000 scale grants for six startups that have already secured outside investments in the past 18 months. Mayor Mike Duggan, speaking to a packed room of entrepreneurs, tech founders and reporters on July 28, highlighted the track record of Motor City Match, a program designed to fund and support businesses in commercial corridors. The new program, which Duggan cautioned would be competitive, will build a culture supportive of Detroit startups and the tech sector. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If this takes off, it is my hope that the city of Detroit funds it just as consistently as they funded Motor City Match," Duggan, who is serving his last term as mayor, said. Detroit City Council members applauded the launch and said it would spur innovation and help retain talent in the city. Detroit officials announced the launch of a first-of-its-kind city-backed startup fund at Newlab at Michigan Central Station on July 28, 2025. The program offers $15,000 and $50,000 in grants to businesses to stay in Detroit and ramp up jobs. "Detroit has always been a place of innovation and today we are doubling down on that legacy," said Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield, who is running for mayor. "We are building an emerging startup hub, a place where ideas can become impact and where dreams can become economic engines." Detroit City Council At-Large Member Mary Waters said that when Detroit entrepreneurs succeed, entire neighborhoods benefit, with new storefronts, services, local hiring and economic activity. The program gives local founders the spark they need to grow companies, create jobs and remain in Detroit, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're making sure that access to funding, opportunities and mentorship isn't just reserved for Silicon Valley or Wall Street. It belongs on Livernois, Seven Mile and Jefferson Avenue, too," Waters said. District 7 Council Member Fred Durhal III, another mayoral candidate, also said the city is dedicated to supporting startups and businesses, whether it's through the new fund or Motor City Match. "When we talk about how we're going to advance this city for generations to come, it is going to involve new jobs, new thinking; not the jobs of the past, where we were just considered an automotive industry here in the city of Detroit. But we are saying that Detroit is the home for tech and mobility here, and you guys are making it happen," Durhal said. Kevin Johnson, president and CEO of the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), singled out Detroit as a city that cares for businesses. He listed off several programs and initiatives, including Motor City Match, the Detroit Legacy Business Project, NextUp 313 and Detroit Means Business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The city of Detroit opens its wallet for us. Now, I only have one charge: try. That's the only thing I'm asking you to do. Try. If you try and you fail, try again," Johnson said. Arabia Simeon, co-founder and CEO of Detroit-based Politics on the Go (POGO), a civic tech startup, was eager to apply for the new startup grant program city officials announced on July 28, 2025 at Newlab at Michigan Central Station. The launch of the startup fund was welcome news for Arabia Simeon, co-founder and CEO of Politics on the Go (POGO) that aims to simplify civic engagement for Gen Z and millennials with a dating app-style mobile application, where users can swipe left and right on candidate profile and build a sample ballot, all the way down to the local level. Simeon told the Free Press she plans to apply for the new startup grant program. "It would help incredibly. I would be able to bring on more engineers, so that's hiring directly in the city and from the state of Michigan, and we would also be able to expand our marketing efforts so that we can reach a larger demographic of Gen Z and millennials," said Simeon, who is originally from New York but moved to Detroit in 2021. The civic tech startup, based in Detroit, would also be able to cover more elections in Michigan and create a more efficient app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The app is currently in test mode and available on iOS devices. For the general election, POGO is releasing a web app for all devices, Simeon said. The eligibility requirements Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify for the startup fund, according to a news release and Justin Onwenu, the city of Detroit's director of entrepreneurship and economic opportunity: Be a Detroit-based startup or founder building in Detroit that has been established for up to a decade. Be a "scalable, venture backable company" meaning companies, typically tech- or software-enabled, that can grow quickly with a service or product that improves residents' lives or enhances city services or operations. Become certified as a Detroit-based business. Share progress and outcome data with the city and DEGC. There are two types of awards: $15,000 "seed grants" and $50,000 "scale grants" for applicants who have raised at least $100,000 in outside investment in the past year or so and are actively seeking at least $250,000 in private capital. Grantees can use the money to develop their product, hire and retain staff, test and pilot, among other needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The program is taking round one applications from July 28 to Aug. 25. The first 13 grantees are expected to be announced in September. The second round, for the next 13 awardees, is slated to open in February 2026. How to apply For more information, and to apply, go to detroitmi.gov/startup. Contact Nushrat Rahman: nrahman@freepress.com. Follow her on X: @NushratR. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit startups can apply for new grant program Related video: Latest on Devils Den State Park double homicide FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) Arkansas State Police released a new photo July 29 that is believed to be the person of interest in a double homicide investigation after previously calling him a suspect. Arkansas State Police are investigating a double homicide after a man and woman were found dead July 26 on a trail at Devils Den State Park in Washington County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 28, ASP released a sketch believed to be a suspect in the double homicide, but changed its terminology to person of interest on July 29 when it released the new photo. So, whats the difference between the two terms? According to NewsNation, police use person of interest to describe anyone potentially connected to a crime, without having sufficient evidence to label that person a suspect. So when we say a person of interest, its just somebody who may have information about the crime, NewsNation legal contributor Jesse Weber explained. A suspect is when the evidence leads to that as the perpetrator of the crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NewsNation says the person of interest began to be used more widely in 1996, after police named security guard Richard Jewel a suspect in the Olympic Park bombing in Atlanta. Jewell faced intense media scrutiny over his assumed guilt but was never charged and was eventually exonerated. Jewell successfully sued a number of those who accused him, including media outlets. According to NewsNation, the term began to be criticized during the 2001 anthrax attack investigation, after U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft used it to refer to Dr. Steven J. Hatfill, since confusion over the two terms could lead people to believe there was more evidence of someones guilt than might actually exist. Hatfill was officially exonerated in 2008. According to the Law Offices of Thomas C. Mooney in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, a person of interest may be a witness or someone with a close relationship with the victim of the crime. The law firm says the suspect is someone they believe committed the crime. A person of interest may help the police find the suspect or may turn out to be a suspect. Not all cases have suspects, but police will still interrogate a person of interest to obtain more information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ASP asks those who were at Devils Den State Park on July 26 to review any photos, videos, or GoPro camera footage for images of the person of interest. ASP is also asking residents not to post any possible evidence online and instead, to preserve the original files and submit information to the agency. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. Three new projects in Ohio will create more than 1,200 jobs, retain another 700 and generate $65 million in new payroll in the Akron, Columbus and Cincinnati regions. Gov. Mike DeWine, Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik announced the approval of the three projects in a July 28 press release after the Ohio Tax Credit Authority (TCA) reviewed economic development proposals brought to the board by JobsOhio and its regional partners. The projects are expected to generate more than $13 million in investments across the state. Here's a look at the three projects and where they will be located. Great Day Improvements expands in Akron, Cincinnati regions Great Day Improvements, LLC, is expanding to Sharonville in Hamilton County, Twinsburg in Summit County, and Walton Hill and Bedford Heights in Cuyahoga County. Advertisement Advertisement The company "is a leading direct-to-consumer provider and manufacturer of premium home improvement products," according to DeWine's release. It has more than 300 locations nationwide, according to its website. In Northeast Ohio, the project is expected to create 421 full-time jobs with $22 million in annual payroll. The proposed project includes the reallocation of business across multiple locations and the acquisition of a new facility to increase efficiency and expand manufacturing capabilities. TCA approved a 1.743 percent, 10-year Job Creation Tax Credit for the project. In Southwest Ohio, Great Day Improvement's project is expected to create 583 full-time jobs with $30 million in new payroll annually. The proposed project includes the addition of multiple shifts to their weekly production schedule to expand manufacturing capabilities. TCA approved a 1.743 percent, 10-year Job Creation Tax Credit for the project. The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Great Day Improvements started as two Cleveland-based brands Patio Enclosures and Stanek Windows. It has since acquired several others, including Leafguard, Champion Windows and Apex Energy Solutions. Picanova relocating from Arizona to Obetz, near Columbus Picanova Inc., a decorative and lifestyle accessories manufacturer, expects to create 246 full-time jobs with $13 million in annual payroll in Obetz, south of Columbus in Franklin County, when it relocates its Arizona operations to Ohio. Advertisement Advertisement According to DeWine's release, Picanova is "one of the largest producers of custom wall decor in the world." TCA approved a 1.599 percent, nine-year Job Creation Tax Credit for the project. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: DeWine: 1,200 new Ohio jobs with Cincinnati, Akron, Columbus-area projects LOS ANGELESLast week, the official social media accounts of the Department of Homeland Security deviated from a series of action shots of Secretary Kristi Noem and various law enforcement officers to post a painting from the 19th century. American Progress portrays a floating White woman leading the charge for homesteaders and technological progress, herding buffalo and Native people off western lands. The painting, completed in 1872 by John Gast, is on display at the Autry Museum of the American West, nestled in the hills of Los Angeles. Over the weekend, it hosted festivities for the National Day of the Cowboy and Cowgirl, during which Stephen Aron, the museums director, invited The 19th to visit and discuss what this painting represents about America, empire and White womanhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The image of American Progress has been trending ever since it appeared across DHS social channels on July 23 with the caption: A Heritage to be proud of, a Homeland worth Defending. The painting is a deviation from the recent content on the official DHS Instagram page, which since Trumps inauguration has become a collection of memes, vintage-inspired propaganda posters and highly-produced hype videos of law enforcement officers. At the Autry, the small painting is part of an extensive salon tableau of wilderness canvases, depicting the American West as a fertile land to be conquered. People are secondary or absent in most works, with few exceptions. Next to American Progress is a large portrait of three White children and a dog, showing the type of life settlers were striving for in pursuit of manifest destiny. In real-life Los Angeles, where the Autry is located, the city has been ground zero for the Trump administrations federal immigration agenda, which has focused on a particular version of Homelands Heritage one about protecting White women and families. Founded in 1988 by Gene and Jackie Autry to share the heritage and legacy of the American West, the museum combines art, historical collections and cultural events. Central to its mission is bringing together the stories of all peoples of the American West. The image of American Progress has been trending ever since it appeared across DHS social channels on July 23. This is exemplified by the layout of the gallery where American Progress lives. Aron points out three massive Navajo chief blankets are displayed across the room as a different kind of landscape. In the middle of the room is an enormous sculpture, known as Grounded, by third-generation Santa Clara Pueblo artist Rose B. Simpson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement American Progress was acquired after it was displayed as a part of a controversial 1991 exhibit at the Smithsonian Museum of Art that sought to reinterpret art of the American West with fresh context on conquest and colonization. Several lawmakers criticized the exhibit as overtly political, and threatened to defund the Washington, D.C. cultural institution in retaliation. Critics and patrons felt the exhibition unnecessarily villainized Americas history a sharp contrast to the shining beam of progress depicted in Gasts piece. Its a reaction that is echoing through American politics today, as the Trump administration considers removing books about slavery from national parks, erasing factual information that disparages American history and renaming a warship honoring LGBTQ+ activist Harvey Milk. Trumps executive orders seek to rollback mentions of gender, racial and ethnic diversity from the federal government. Experts at the Autry made clear that the capital-H Heritage celebrated in the DHS caption is a matryoshka doll of romanticization. The painting depicts three waves of American Progress, with a floating White woman bearing the star of empire ushering Indigenous people and animals out of the frame, leading the way for miners and homesteaders. Its looking back on the 1840s through the eyes of post-Civil War America, when the West represented a way to stitch together the nation and provide a rebirth, Aron told me. In order for White Americans to settle in the West, they had to unsettle a diverse group of Indigenous, Spanish and Mexican people. And the main symbol and weapon of settlement was the White family, said Virginia Scharff, distinguished professor emerita at the University of New Mexico and chair of Western history at the Autry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The presence of White women is absolutely essential to the idea of permanent occupation of formerly Indigenous lands by the United States and the cementing of a legitimacy to occupy that land, Scharff said. White men first headed west alone, to work on railroads or as miners, but they didnt begin to occupy the land in a meaningful way on their own. And in Gasts painting, White womanhood looms large literally. Clad in classical white, the passive figure brings light westward; in contrast to the bare-breasted Indigenous woman, she embodies decency and civility. As this spectre of progress claimed new states in the mid-1800s, the rights of women diverged based on racial and ethnic background. There were always women who existed there prior to Americans coming, who had different ideas of womanhood, different roles in their communities, that often became under attack when a new government was established, said Carolyn Brocken, senior curator at the Autry, during a phone call. Mexican women had more rights than American women in the East, including the ability to own property, Brocken said. Native women, who participated in public councils across myriad tribal traditions, were removed from ancestral lands and different cultural ideals were forced upon them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, Gasts floating, symbolic woman erases the very real contributions of women on the frontier. You miss how much women were active agents of change in the West, Brocken said. They fought for their rights and communities Wyoming was the first state to legalize womens suffrage in 1869. In contrast to the resurgence of traditional gender roles today, gender roles could be more fluid in frontier communities with limited resources, and women slowly gained more independence through expanded work and responsibilities. Scharff sees the strategic deployment of the American Progress painting as deeply insidious. The Department of Homeland Security is not sending scantily clad White women, she said, but instead sending guys with guns and truncheons and masks to grab people off the streets. Theres a deliberate kind of deception being practiced here that is really cynical and really dangerous, in my view. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin told The 19th in a statement that the agency honors artwork that celebrates Americas heritage and history. She added: If the media needs a history lesson on the brave men and women who blazed the trails and forged this Republic from the sweat of their brow, we are happy to send them a history textbook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But at the Autry, context is everything. Were doing everything we can, both in the physical space and also when were doing interpretive work, to try to contextualize this kind of art in American history, Scharff said. She considers Simpsons Witness, which is usually displayed alongside American Progress, to be the most powerful piece in the entire collection. It speaks to the people who are made invisible, muted and chased off the edge of the canvas by this type of art, but theyre still there, she said. Their presence is undeniable if you just look. When Simpsons work was displayed in an eighteenth-century home, the artist commented on being out of place. There have been times when I wanted to speak only to people who could understand my work, Simpson said in an interview. Yet if my sculptures are out of place, theyre actually working harder than if theyre surrounded by my context. I want my sculptures to go into difficult places; theyre intended to infiltrate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Witness has been temporarily replaced by its accompanying sculpture Grounded, a clay figure crouched on the ground with black wings reaching to the ceiling. Witness was relocated to the floor below as a part of a temporary exhibit called Future Imaginaries: Indigenous Art, Fashion, Technology. Upstairs, Aron explains, the art is meant to remind patrons of the time before the beginning mythologized by painters like Gast. Future Imaginaries is meant to show Indigenous history is not just in the past, but also that there is a present and a future. In its temporary surroundings, Witness towers over Aron. He addressed its usual placement while standing in front of the post-apocalyptic clay figure. Bearing witness to the paintings of manifest destiny stands, I think, if not as a rebuke, then at least as a reminder of whose homeland, whose heritage, whos first and whos still here, he said. The post What a DHS post says about White womanhood and the American empire today appeared first on The 19th. News that represents you, in your inbox every weekday. Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter. (Bloomberg) -- Zimbabwes best chance of exiting a 25-year debt default is to engage the Group of 20 nations to help formulate a solution and stop trying to work its way out of the quagmire itself, World Bank President Ajay Banga said. Most Read from Bloomberg The southern African country owes the World Bank and other creditors a total of $21 billion and has tried numerous unsuccessful strategies to restore its access to global capital markets. Those ranged from attempting to repay its debts using the proceeds of metal sales and recently approaching 10 nations for help to raise $2.6 billion to pay its arrears. Trying to figure it out on your own, youll be doing this for the next five years, Banga said in an interview in Maputo, Mozambiques capital. They need to figure out a way to reach out to the G-20 and say, we raise our hand, wed like to be part of this process. Zimbabwe first defaulted on repayments to the World Bank in 2000. Its debts to a host of multilateral institutions and bilateral lenders mounted amid a failed land-reform program and a quarter century of economic turmoil, shutting it out of international debt markets and limiting its ability to borrow even during the global pandemic and a recent devastating drought. The government requested the African Development Bank to advise on clearing its debt with the institutions outgoing president, Akinwumi Adesina, and former Mozambican President Joaquim Chissano asked to negotiate with creditors. Its also being advised by Kepler Karst, a Madrid-based legal firm that offers guidance on sovereign-debt issues, which brought in Global Sovereign Advisory, a Paris-based consultancy, to offer financial advice. The fact that Zimbabwean officials, including President Emmerson Mnangagwa, have been sanctioned by the US has complicated the process. While Belarus, Syria and Eritrea are also in arrears to the World Bank, Zimbabwes default is by far the longest. South Africa, which currently holds the G-20 presidency, last month said it has been approached by Zimbabwe to try and garner the groups support for a debt workout. Zambia, Ghana and Ethiopia are among nations that have employed the G-20s Common Framework, which was created in 2020 to help poor nations bring together a diverse set of creditors to restructure debts. While they have made progress in reaching deals, the process has been criticized for being too slow. NEW YORK Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo claimed credit Monday for the creation of New York Citys universal pre-K program, an initiative thats widely viewed as the brainchild of his longtime political nemesis, ex-Mayor Bill de Blasio. Cuomo, whos running as an independent candidate in Novembers election for New York City mayor, staked out his position during an appearance on WNYC after being asked if he agrees de Blasio spearheaded the 2014 launch of the popular early childhood education program. No, he didnt, replied Cuomo, who as governor frequently clashed with de Blasio. The state did it I did it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The citys universal pre-K program, which provides free full-day child care for every 4-year-old in the five boroughs, got off the ground in September 2014 after de Blasio made it the main objective of his early days as mayor. Administered by the city Department of Education, the programs launch was undergirded by a hefty tranche of funding included in that years state budget, meaning Albany played a key role in getting the initiative across the finish line. However, the program itself was proposed and designed by de Blasios administration, and the former mayor has long said Albany, including then-Gov. Cuomo, only came around to backing a state funding increase after relentless advocacy from his City Hall team. Asked for clarity on Cuomos radio comments, his spokesman Rich Azzopardi said the ex-governor was referring to a small-scale pre-K pilot program he launched on the state level in 2013 before de Blasio became mayor. Azzopardi also took a shot at de Blasio for initially pushing Albany for a state-level tax increase on the wealthy to bankroll the universal pre-K program. His point was that de Blasio wanted a tax increase for the sake of a tax increase, and Gov. Cuomo was able to build upon the pilot program he launched prior to de Blasios election and deliver those pre-K slots not only to the city, but also the rest of the state with existing resources, Azzopardi said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement De Blasio didnt immediately return a request for comment Monday. Some de Blasio defenders stepped in to accuse Cuomo of rewriting history in light of his radio remarks. City Council Finance Committee Chairman Justin Brannan, who as a senior city Department of Education official helped with the rollout of universal pre-K in 2014, said Cuomos comments made him feel like his head is going to explode. And I built the Verrazzano Bridge with my bare hands, Brannan added. Andrew Cuomo lives in his own reality. Facts dont matter, Ana Maria Archila, the New York Working Families Partys co-director, piled on in a post on X. He makes up stories and then just expects people to fall in line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a press conference held this past April to celebrate a funding increase for the pre-K program, de Blasio hinted at the grueling battle his administration got into with Cuomos administration in 2014. I went to Albany, and I found a door that was closed quite often and a lack of support and we had to fight and fight and fight to finally get what our children deserved, he said at that press conference. You either stand for early childhood education or you dont, and I just think everyones record should be remembered. The 2014 feud is reemerging at a time Cuomo faces a deja vu of sorts over policies related to taxation and childcare albeit from a very different angle. Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for mayor whos polling as the favorite to win Novembers election, has proposed vastly expanding free childcare in the city so that kids between the ages of 6 weeks and 5 years are entitled to it. In order to fund such a drastic expansion, Mamdani, a democratic socialist, has proposed increasing taxes on corporations and millionaires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cuomo and other critics of Mamdani, including Mayor Eric Adams, whos also running as an independent in Novembers election, have argued Mamdanis proposals are unrealistic, saying, in particular, that theres no way Gov. Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers will agree to tax hikes next year. In his WNYC appearance, Cuomo who raised taxes on millionaires in 2021 reiterated his belief that Mamdani wouldnt be able to secure any tax hikes in Albany in 2026. That is not going to happen, said Cuomo, who resigned as governor in August 2021 amid sexual and professional misconduct accusations he denies. ____ _____ NEED TO KNOW Sean "Diddy" Combs was convicted on prostitution charges but acquitted on more serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy on July 2 A judge denied his release on the day he was convicted, saying Combs' history of domestic violence showed he could pose a danger to others In their motion, Combs' attorneys argue that there "are exceptional circumstances warranting a departure from mandatory detention" Sean "Diddy" Combs' attorneys asked a judge on Tuesday, July 28, to release him on a $50 million bond while he awaits sentencing for a recent federal conviction on charges of transportation to engage in prostitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Combs was acquitted of more serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy on July 2, his attorneys sought his immediate release on bond prior to his sentencing, which is scheduled for Oct. 3. Judge Arun Subramanian denied his release at a bail hearing, saying Combs' history of domestic violence showed he could pose a danger to others. Combs was convicted of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, under the Mann Act, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. The law requires that a defendant convicted under the Mann Act be detained ahead of sentencing, unless there are exceptional reasons why it would be inappropriate. Additionally, in order to be released, a defendant must not pose a risk of flight or danger to the public. In their motion filed Tuesday, Combs' attorneys argue that there "are exceptional circumstances warranting a departure from mandatory detention," and reiterated arguments they had made at trial, including that Casandra "Cassie" Ventura and another former longtime girlfriend who testified at his trial under the pseudonym "Jane" had participated in a consensual swingers lifestyle and were not coerced into sex, as prosecutors had alleged. "In the history of the statute, the Mann Act has never been applied to facts similar to these to prosecute or incarcerate any other person," the defense's motion says. Combs' attorneys also say in the motion that for the last 75 years, the Mann Act which was passed in 1910 has been limited to cases involving "interstate travel for financial gain through the business of prostitution." Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. In their motion, Combs' lawyers acknowledged he had been violent with Jane in June 2024, but said that he had been "provoked" by her "through her own acts of violence." During the trial, Jane testified that she once pushed Combs' head into a counter, prompting him to punch, kick, and choke her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Combs' new $50 million bond proposal would be secured by his mansion in Miami, according to the motion. As part of the proposed package, Combs would also forfeit his passport and restrict his travel to the Southern District of Florida and the Southern District of New York for attorney meetings. During the eight-week trial, prosecutors alleged Combs was the head of a criminal enterprise that committed such crimes as kidnapping, bribery and arson and that he forced Ventura and Jane to have sex with male escorts. Both women testified at his trial. A 2016 hotel surveillance video showing Combs assaulting Ventura was among the evidence jurors were shown. Prosecutors vehemently opposed Combs' release at his bail hearing, and argued that he had been violent with Jane in June 2024 even after his homes had been raided by federal agents and while he was aware that he was under investigation on sex trafficking allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The only things exceptional about this defendant are his wealth, his violence and his brazenness," the lead prosecutor, Maurene Comey, told the judge at Combs' bail hearing on July 2. Following the trial, Comey who had also prosecuted cases against Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell was fired. No official reason was given for her dismissal. Read the original article on People Ever since watches began bringing order to the ephemeral passage of time, they also started doing something else: breaking. Own one long enough and something will probably go wrong. It'll run slow. Or fast. Or stop altogether. Decades ago, watch repair shops across the country were staffed with technicians who could service almost any mechanical timepiece when its intricate innards tiny gears, wheels and springs failed. But when the U.S. watchmaking industry declined in the mid-20th century, the number of craftspeople who could fix or fabricate timepieces began dwindling too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were 1,880 U.S. watch and clock repairers in 2023, down from 2,430 just three years earlier, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That 23% decline, on top of previous losses, has led some in this niche industry to label the situation a workforce crisis. It comes amid renewed interest in mechanical timepieces and a modest rebirth of the American watchmaking industry despite the omnipresence of cellphones and their effortless timekeeping. Rolex, the Swiss behemoth, alone makes more than 1 million watches a year. Who will be able to service all of them as they age? Or make the new ones being dreamed up? Read more: An L.A. watchmaker crafted a $70,000 timepiece. It could revolutionize the U.S. watch industry Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A dearth of new watchmaking schools where students learn about repairs, fabrication or both is central to the problem. After the closure of several programs in recent decades, only four full-time, independent watchmaking schools remain in the U.S. One watch company, Torrance-based J.N. Shapiro Watches maker of the $70,000 Resurgence model is among the handful of U.S.-based firms that has struggled to hire watchmakers. Rolex has a solution on the repair side. In September, the Geneva-based company debuted a new watchmaking school at the Rolex Watch Training Center in Dallas. The program's 18-month curriculum is focused on training students to service watches made by the brand. The last six months of schooling include an immersion component in which students repair Rolex timekeepers under the supervision of instructors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon graduation, participants can work for a Rolex-affiliated jeweler or for the company itself. Most of the school's first class, which graduates next February, have already secured jobs, a Rolex spokesperson said. They can expect annual salaries starting in the range of $75,000 to $85,000, depending on location. The school is free. The company spokesperson said in a statement that the Dallas program, which welcomes just 27 students per class, represents the company's "commitment at a larger scale to meet the industry demand." Popular Rolex models include a green Submariner dive watch that collectors have nicknamed "the Hulk," and the GMT-Master II. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) Rolex's focus on training watchmakers to work solely on its timepieces differentiates its program from independent schools, which typically teach students how to work on all sorts of watches, turning out graduates with expertise in subjects including micro-mechanics and repairs. "I think we need a balance of technicians and then more full-service watchmakers," said Tony Traina, who publishes Unpolished Watches, an industry newsletter. "The way in which the profession is evolving right now it seems like we're headed in that direction. There are the Shapiros of the world, along with the Rolexes of the world. I think we'll reach an equilibrium." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rolex opened a more traditional watchmaking school in the U.S. in 2001 the Lititz Watch Technicum in Pennsylvania, but closed it after its final class graduated this month. The Rolex school in Dallas is in high demand, with 400 applicants for its inaugural class and 560 more for the second one starting in September. Read more: J.P. Morgan's million-dollar pocket watch vanished. The hunt for it became an obsession Among the applicants, the spokesperson said, were Texans who'd initially been surprised that fixing watches could be "a viable career with an established educational track." The average student age among the first two classes is 28; some have been admitted straight out of high school and others have a college degree. Students have backgrounds in areas such as engineering and accounting, and have had careers as musicians, teachers and communications professionals. J.N. Shapiro Watches' Resurgence model starts at $70,000 and is made in Torrance. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) As head of an independent watch company, Joshua Shapiro said it was extremely difficult to find the six watchmakers who now work for him in Torrance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It took a lot of networking," said Shapiro, who added that his team was assembled over several years, and that three of his watchmakers came from the Lititz school. One of those watchmakers is Spencer Torok, 25, who graduated from Lititz three years ago. After high school, the Hilliard, Ohio, native attended Ohio Dominican University, where he took accounting classes. But Torok realized during the COVID-19 pandemic that he wanted to make a change. He'd long been interested in watches, he said, and enrolled at Lititz. Spencer Torok, a watchmaker at J.N. Shapiro Watches, polishes watch parts. Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times Torok said that the schooling only stoked his passion and that he would never have gotten hired by Shapiro if not for the education he received at Lititz. "No way," he said with a laugh. "It takes a lot of resources to train someone." Some American watch companies have had to go abroad to make hires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cameron Weiss, whose eponymous watch company was founded in L.A. in 2013 and later moved to Nashville, said he had to turn to Switzerland to recruit a watchmaker. "I'd been looking for someone with that skill level for the last 12 years," said Weiss. This month Weiss traveled again to Switzerland to scout for workers. He hopes the Rolex program in Dallas will help invigorate watch education in the U.S. Joshua Shapiro said it was extremely difficult to find the watchmakers who now work for his Torrance-based company. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) One of the last remaining full-service watchmaking schools in America is at Paris Junior College in Texas. Program coordinator Garrin Fraze, 24, graduated from it in 2019. He was enticed back last year by a former instructor, who asked him to take over. "Because we are independent, we have a little bit of openness in the curriculum," said Fraze, who also serves as head instructor of the program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like the Rolex school in Dallas, the Paris program is small, accommodating about 20 students. But Fraze hopes to expand it he knows how strong demand is for watchmakers, including those who can repair Rolexes. After his graduation from the Paris program, he got a job as the in-house watchmaker of a Fort Worth jeweler. It was an authorized Rolex dealer. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) Dimon Magnet Academy will host a block party on Tuesday in honor of their new community collaboration. The block party will be held on July 29, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 480 Dogwood Drive. The event is for students and their families, as well as Columbus State University partners and community members. The event will feature free food, games, food trucks, prizes and a variety of family-friendly activities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dimon Magnet Academy and Columbus State University are celebrating the launch of their new Professional Development Lab at the elementary school. Officials from CSU say DMA will serve as a hub for current and student teachers, providing experiential learning opportunities for the universitys students. This celebration is more than a back-to-school eventit marks the official launch of a bold partnership that places Dimon Elementary Magnet Academy (DMA) and its community at the forefront of an integrated approach to education, health and wellness, said Dr. Margie Yates, dean of the College of Education & Health Professions at Columbus State University. The Professional Development Lab School will serve as an innovative and replicable model in which students, families and community members come together to learn, grow and build a stronger future for the Chattahoochee Valley. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. Diplomat, doctor among 7 people arrested in undercover sex sting Boston A diplomat and a doctor are expected to face a judge on Tuesday after they were arrested in an undercover sex sting in Boston. They are a part of seven arrests that come after 19 undercover arrests in connection with the Boston Police Departments ongoing operations to target exploiters, traffickers, and sex buyers. Boston police said the men showed up at the Home 2 Suites by Hilton at South Bay expecting to pay for sex but instead were met by undercover officers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seven men were taken into custody, including a local doctor and a man claiming to be a French diplomat. The man who claimed to be a diplomat, identified as Mohamed Djadoune, reportedly requested a French interpreter and to speak with the president. Another suspect, Sah Kumar Raj, allegedly responded to an ad from an undercover officer posing as a 15-year-old girl, offering to tease me, show me some hot moves. Last month, another sting took place at the Holiday Inn Express, also at South Bay, and 19 people were arrested. Boston police said women in the area are being systematically exploited for commercial sex. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report said, The investigation further uncovered the involvement of organized criminal networks, which were preying on vulnerable individuals. Human trafficking survivor Audra Doody reacted to the stings. Were showing people that its not acceptable to buy other human beings, then people are going to continue to do it, said Doody. We do not tolerate buying vulnerable people in our state. Local lawmakers also responded to the arrests. City Councilor Ed Flynn said, Everyone whos engaging in this must be arrested and judged harshly by the criminal justice system. Sen. Nick Collins added, I think it highlights the ongoing and growing challenges that were facing with Mass and Cass and the direct link between human trafficking and whats fueling the crisis at Mass and Cass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Boston police spokesperson said they will continue operations to target exploiters, traffickers, and sex buyers. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Diplomat, doctor among those arrested in Boston undercover sex sting A man who claims to be a diplomat and a doctor are among those facing charges after an undercover sex sting at Bostons South Bay Mall. The seven arrests come after 19 undercover arrests as part of Boston Polices ongoing operations to target exploiters, traffickers, and sex buyers. Investigators allege some of the suspects responded to sex for fee advertisements set up by police. Undercover detectives have also been patrolling the Massachusetts Avenue corridor on foot to identify and apprehend those involved in trafficking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Boston Police report said some of the suspects showed up to the Home2 Suites by Hilton last Thursday expecting to pay for sex. The investigation further uncovered the involvement of organized criminal networks, which were preying on vulnerable individuals, said a Boston Police report. The man who claims to be a diplomat, identified as Mohamed Djadoune, reportedly requested a French interpreter and to speak with the President. Another suspect, Sah Kumar Raj, allegedly responded to an ad from an undercover officer posing as a 15-year-old girl, offering to tease me show me some hot moves. I think it highlights the on-going and growing challenges that were facing with Mass and Cass and the direct link between human trafficking and whats fueling the crisis at Mass and Cass, said State Senator Nick Collins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First Suffolk Democrat Nick Collins is commending BPDs Human Trafficking Unit, Mass State Police, and the FBI for ramping up a demand reduction sting in the troubled area. It indicates how devious and dangerous some of these people are, he said. Boston Police executed a similar undercover sting at the Holiday Inn Express at the South Bay Mall last month. Everyone whos engaging in this must be arrested and judged harshly by the criminal justice system, said Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn. There are people from different backgrounds and occupations. Wealthy people, and people not making money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Councilor Flynn said hes hopeful that the attention remains focused on the human trafficking demand thats saturating his district. Human trafficking survivor Audra Doody believes these crackdowns set a stern tone in Massachusetts. You may think youre paying for consensual sex, but when youre paying for something, that takes the consent right out of it, said Doody, Co-Executive Director at Safe Exit Initiative. The initiative was launched after the Human Trafficking Unit received actionable intelligence indicating that women in the area were being systematically exploited for commercial sex. The primary mission of the Human Trafficking Unit is to identify and support victims, while investigating and prosecuting their exploiters. This includes targeting drug traffickers who use narcotics to manipulate and control victims through addiction, said a Boston Police report. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW When the FBI raided Jeffrey Epstein's homes in Manhattan and the US Virgin Islands, they seized more than 70 computers, iPads, and hard drives. They took boxes of shredded paper and financial documents. In a cabinet underneath a bookshelf in Epstein's Manhattan mansion, they found a large plastic bin full of hard drives. They sawed open a metal safe and found inside it a binder full of CDs and even more hard drives. This material, taken in 2019, forms the bulk of the Epstein files. The vast corpus of evidence has assumed an almost mythic status in recent weeks as questions swirl about Epstein, who killed himself while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges, and his rich and powerful associates. The full release of the files could answer legitimate questions about how Epstein escaped accountability for trafficking and abusing young girls, the sources of his wealth, failures surrounding his death, and the nature of his relationships to powerful people with intelligence ties, including former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and CIA Director William Burns. The unanswered questions have left room for wild speculation. At its most lurid, the unsubstantiated theory goes that Epstein pimped out teenage girls as part of a blackmail operation at the behest of the Mossad, Israel's intelligence agency, and was murdered in his jail cell to ensure he took his secrets to his grave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Epstein had anything to do with intelligence agencies, one might expect some hint of it to show up in all these files. Four people who had access to the records seized by the FBI say they found nothing to indicate that Epstein had any role with US or foreign intelligence. There's no sign that evidence was removed because it contained classified or sensitive information, they said. There was no mention of intelligence ties in court records or during the five-week trial of Epstein's accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, who was convicted in 2021 of trafficking girls to Epstein for sex. "Nothing supports the contention that there was either a honeypot blackmail scheme or any association with intelligence," one of the people with access to the seized records told Business Insider. Of course, had Epstein been working as an intelligence asset in some fashion, it's possible that there would be no trace of that in the seized records. "If you are working for the government providing information to the government that relationship is something that neither party necessarily wants to casually be discovered," says Adam Hickey, a former top official in the Department of Justice's national security division. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hickey, who oversaw counterintelligence, espionage, and foreign computer hacking cases, had no involvement with the Epstein and Maxwell prosecutions. But he and other national security law experts told Business Insider it's notable that neither Epstein nor Maxwell raised intelligence connections in their defense. "You would expect him to want to prove that what he was doing was because the government sent him out to do it," Hickey says. "That would be fodder for a defense." The Trump administration's recent backpedaling on a promise to release more documents from the Justice Department's Epstein files has reignited long-standing suspicions that the government is hiding details of Epstein's crimes and protecting his many powerful and influential associates. FBI Director Kash Patel and his deputy, Dan Bongino, pushed for the release of the "Epstein files" before joining the administration, claiming the government was participating in a cover-up. The idea that Epstein had some kind of intelligence role has been promoted by Steve Bannon, who recorded hours of interviews with Epstein in the months before his death. Do you have any information about the Justice Department's Epstein files? Contact Business Insider Legal Correspondent Jacob Shamsian at jshamsian@businessinsider.com or on the secure messaging app Signal at JacobShamsian.07. Here's our guide to sharing information securely. In February, Attorney General Pam Bondi published several hundred pages of documents from the Justice Department's trove, which she described as "Phase One" of the release. All but three pages had been made public years earlier. In some documents, the Justice Department bizarrely added new redactions to already-public records. (The Justice Department has denied Business Insider's FOIA requests for many of the files; the denials are being appealed. Justice Department representatives didn't respond to requests for comment.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This month, the Justice Department released a two-page memo announcing that "no further disclosure would be appropriate or warranted." Elon Musk, who left his government role in June in an ugly split with Trump, has led calls for the full release of the Epstein files, saying on X that doing so would be a priority for his new political party. MAGA-friendly pundits, including former Fox News host Tucker Carlson have pushed the theory based on connect-the-dots leaps of logic that Epstein was working for the Mossad. Earlier this month, The Wall Street Journal reported that Bondi informed President Donald Trump in the spring that his name appeared in the Epstein files, though it's not clear in what context. Trump and Epstein were friendly in the 1990s, before Epstein registered as a sex offender. On Thursday and Friday, Justice Department officials met with Maxwell near the Florida prison where she's serving a 20-year sentence. Theories about Epstein are rooted in mistrust: Epstein's life and death represent failures of the institutions that were supposed to bring him to justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conspiracy theories around intelligence make hay of his connections without offering much evidence beyond them. They note, for instance, that Ghislaine Maxwell's father, the late British business tycoon Robert Maxwell, is widely believed to have worked for Israeli intelligence. Barak visited Epstein's Manhattan townhouse on multiple occasions after Barak left office something the former prime minister later said he regretted and Epstein was an investor in one of Barak's companies. Burns also met multiple times with Epstein while he was deputy Secretary of State, but before he led the CIA. A CIA spokesperson said the meetings were arranged so that Epstein could offer Burns career advice. If he had had any connection to any governmental agency whatsoever, I would be the first person to know about it. Alan Dershowitz, former Epstein defense attorney Two specific claims that are often cited to make the case that Epstein was an intelligence asset have been contradicted. The first comes from a 2019 opinion column in the Daily Beast written by journalist Vicky Ward. According to Ward, Alex Acosta, the Florida prosecutor who gave Epstein a sweetheart deal in the mid-2000s that allowed him to serve a light jail sentence despite law enforcement's belief that he had abused dozens of girls, was asked about the case during his vetting to be named labor secretary during the first Trump administration. "I was told Epstein 'belonged to intelligence' and to leave it alone," Acosta said, according to Ward's anonymous source. Acosta said the opposite when he spoke to the Justice Department's Office of Professional Responsibility for a report published in 2020. Asked whether he had knowledge of Epstein being "an intelligence asset," Acosta told them, "the answer is no." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Acosta's response was buried in a footnote on page 169 of the 348-page report and was not widely seen. Acosta declined to comment for this story. "I was told what I was told and the person who's told it to me has never backtracked from it," Ward told Business Insider. Alan Dershowitz, who represented Epstein in the Florida case, told Business Insider that Epstein told him he didn't have ties to intelligence agencies. "He said 'absolutely no.' He said he wished he did, that it would've been very helpful" to get an even better deal, Dershowitz says. "If he had had any connection to any governmental agency whatsoever, I would be the first person to know about it." One of Epstein's accusers, Virginia Giuffre, accused Dershowitz of abuse, but later withdrew the allegation and said she "may have made a mistake." Dershowitz has called for the public release of the Epstein files. "They would distinguish between true accusations and false accusations," he said. The second claim involves the existence of videos filmed for the benefit of Epstein's intelligence handlers, the theory goes showing Epstein's friends having sex with underage girls. Epstein's victims have said he told them he had cameras throughout his homes. The specific claim that Epstein was recording sexual acts involving his associates comes from statements that Sarah Ransome, one of Epstein's accusers, made in 2016. Ransome later admitted that she made it up. "I was absolutely terrified that, once I went public with my story, Jeffrey and Ghislaine would find and kill me," Ransome wrote in her 2021 memoir. If the seized Epstein documents contained any whiff of intelligence ties, there are several ways that could have shown up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Typically, when Justice Department prosecutors suspect a US intelligence agency, such as the CIA or NSA, might have information pertinent to a criminal case they're investigating, they will make a request for a prudential review, also called a prudential search, experts in national security law said. "Epstein had one condition: he wanted assurances that the SDNY did not see him as a rapist. That was the end of that. He was a rapist, and we were not about to give him some other, more polite-sounding label." Geoffrey Berman, former US attorney "The prudential review is where you kick the tires and make sure there's nothing that the intelligence community has that is going to make it impossible or unethical for you to bring your case because you can't comply with your discovery obligations because the information is classified," says Hickey, who's now a defense attorney with the firm Mayer Brown. There's no indication that a prudential review ever took place, according to the four people who had access to the records seized by the FBI. In Epstein's case, the reason for this might have come down to timing, two of his lawyers told BI: His death, mere weeks after his arrest, meant there wasn't much time to process the evidence against him. "Because Epstein died very early on, the government had produced little discovery and our primary initial focus was bail," one of those lawyers in the 2019 case, Marc Fernich, told Business Insider. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his memoir, Geoffrey Berman, the US attorney who oversaw the case against Epstein, wrote that his team never met with Epstein's defense team to discuss the possibility of a plea deal. "Epstein had one condition: he wanted assurances that the SDNY did not see him as a rapist," Berman wrote. "That was the end of that. He was a rapist, and we were not about to give him some other, more polite-sounding label." There's also no indication that a prudential review was requested in the case against Maxwell, which involved much of the same evidence collected for Epstein's prosecution, the four people said. A representative for the US Attorney's office in the Southern District of New York and an attorney for Maxwell declined to comment. In addition, there's no record of evidence being removed for national security reasons. For prosecutors to remove certain pieces of evidence, to avoid exposing sensitive intelligence to defense attorneys, they would need to file motions under the Classified Information Procedures Act, or CIPA. The motions would be noted on the public court docket, experts said. "The way things normally happen is that there would be some tell in the docket that you're dealing with these issues, and the court knows about it through CIPA," says Hickey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CIPA was enacted in 1980 to make it easier to prosecute people with intelligence ties. Until then, legal experts say, defendants with such ties could use the threat of exposing government secrets "graymail," as it was called to avoid prosecution. "Before CIPA, basically nobody would ever prosecute CIA officers because they would always pull this shit," says Kel McClanahan, a national security attorney and law professor at George Washington University. BI's search of the docket for the federal cases against Epstein or Maxwell found no mention of CIPA litigation. No member of Maxwell's high-powered defense team which included lawyers who have worked on cases involving terrorists and international drug traffickers asked the judge to order prosecutors to conduct a prudential search of intelligence agency material. If it's true that there was never a search for government secrets or arguments for pulling evidence, and if no links to intelligence ever emerged from extensive reviews of the Epstein files, it does not "definitively remove the question" of an intelligence role, McClanahan says. But it's a "pretty damn convincing" sign, he says. Jacob Shamsian is a correspondent on Business Insider's Legal Affairs desk. Read the original article on Business Insider The Beach Sound condominium complex along the Tequesta oceanfront is about to get much bigger. Palm Beach County commissioners have approved the waivers needed for a new eight-story, 130,000-square-foot building that will replace the current 40-year-old Beach Sound, which is only four stories and 22,000 square feet. Critics call the new building The Beast of Beach Sound. The new building will continue to have just 12 units, the same as the current building. But each unit will be much larger than the existing ones. The condo communities to the north and south opposed the waivers, arguing that the new Beach Sound would be much too close to their buildings and would hurt their property values. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After more than two hours of testimony, in support and opposition, the commission voted 6-0 to approve the project. Commissioners seemed sympathetic to the argument presented by Brian Seymour, the developers lawyer. In light of the Surfside tragedy, he said there are two options for owners of older condos: Either lose everything or try to sell out. An artist's rendering of the new Beach Sound condominium complex on Jupiter Island. Four years ago, a 12-story beachfront condominium in the Miami-Dade County town of Surfside collapsed, causing the deaths of 98 people. The Florida Legislature then revised building codes to require condo buildings to conduct safety inspections in hopes of preventing the collapses of older buildings. To avoid the expense of making multimillion-dollar repairs, some condo owners have opted to sell their buildings to developers. Eleven of the 12 condo owners at Beach Sound sold out to the development group associated with the Kolter Group. The only holdouts were Ed and Karen Rado. In a statement read by their lawyer, Jonathon Chane, they called it troubling that the Surfside tragedy was used as justification for this variance. What is the basis for invoking Surfside, or are they simply preying on fear? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Rados, the developers paid existing owners "life-changing money" to sell out. And land-use lawyer Seth Behn, representing the Claridge condo complex, said "the notion of placing an eight-plus-story building only 25 feet from Beach Sound Road is clearly not compatible with the established neighborhood. Thus, we again have a proposal that seeks to create a building that is out of character with the neighborhood to shoehorn an extraordinarily large building onto a little over half an acre of buildable land." Nicole Sylvester, though, whose mother owns a unit in Beach Sound, called the existing building "outdated," noting that the new one will be state-of-the-art, with advanced life safety and storm protection for owners. Critic of new Beach Sound says nothing wrong with old condos The current Beach Sound condo compelex on Jupiter Island. Beach Sound is a condominium building situated on Jupiter Island, near the northern border of Palm Beach County. A year ago, Palm Beach County commissioners approved allowing beachfront condos in unincorporated areas to seek waivers from setback requirements to help redevelop older beachfront buildings. Without the changes, Seymour said, redevelopment could not occur. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The request for waivers will be reviewed on "a case-by-case basis," but Ed O'Sullivan, a resident at Claridge, said approving the waivers for Beach Sound sets a dangerous precedent. "What is wrong with old buildings? Saving old things has some value," O'Sullivan testified. "This little building is fine. The only problem is a lack of maintenance. If they are going replace it and build new, do it at the right scale." According to the Claridge, the close proximity of Beach Sound will increase wind velocity. O'Sullivan said it is expected to cost each Claridge owner more than $200,000 to protect units in case of a hurricane strike as a result of the wind tunnel that will be created by the new building. Beach Sound to have lobby, underground garage, fitness room, lounge The ground floor of the new building will have a lobby. It will house administrative offices, a fitness room, a yoga studio and a lounge area. Floors 2 through 6 will have two residences; floors 7 and 8 will have just one unit. The complex will include an underground parking garage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commission meeting was contentious at times. More than 40 speakers expressed opinions in person or sent emails. The issue has been debated for more than a year. The developer's planner, Josh Long, acknowledged that the new building will be higher than the existing one but it is consistent with the height of other nearby condo buildings in the area. It will be not as tall as the Claridge to the north but larger than the Ocean Sound to the south. Seymour accused OSullivan of spreading misinformation about the project. He said OSullivan is paying the legal fees of the Rados to challenge the decision of the other 11 owners to sell the building. It is not clear whether the Rados' decision to hold out could block the developer from moving forward with its redevelopment plan. MORE: The list: Did your condo association fail to turn in its Phase One inspection report? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Big win for Kolter: Zoning change adopted that could lead to new Jupiter Island condo The Kolter Group and local developer Phil Perko bought out the 11 owners last year. The unit owners voted 11-1 in November to terminate the association. The developers argue that they need to make the current building bigger and wider for the project to be economically feasible. They are complying with the requirement that the building not increase the number of units. Seymour said the developer's wind engineer shows only a slight increase in wind, not enough to have an adverse impact. He noted its engineers have concluded that the underground garage can be safely built and that steps have been taken to minimize shade issues. O'Sullivan, though, said the adverse impacts of having the new Beach Sound so close to the Claridge has lowered property values. One owner recently saw his values decrease by $1 million when he sold his unit, he said. Seymour called on the commission not to consider the claim without O'Sullivan providing proof. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mike Diamond is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. He covers Palm Beach County government. You can reach him at mdiamond@pbpost.com. Help support local journalism. Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Jupiter-area condo complex in Florida to get modern makeover As Cambodia and Thailand's ceasefire held Tuesday, Lat Laem hared back home -- one of the first evacuees to return to the frontier since deadly cross-border clashes sent more than 300,000 people fleeing. The territorial conflict, which ignited into open combat on Thursday, stems from an obscure cartographical dispute dating back decades, and the truce was sealed after interventions from world leaders including US President Donald Trump. Back in his Cambodian village of Kouk Khpos -- about 10 kilometres (six miles) from the Thai border -- 30-year-old farmer Lat Laem is grateful for his homecoming, and more quotidian concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I feel happy to be back to my newly built home so I can clean the floor," he told AFP, after a two-hour trip trailing his family home on a tractor through shuttered villages and empty streets. Lat Laem said he was working in his rice field when the first blasts broke out, heralding the start of fighting that was waged with artillery, rockets, jets and ground troops. At least 43 people have been killed on both sides in the deadliest clashes in years over a scattering of ancient contested temples on Thailand and Cambodia's 800-kilometre border. The truce came into effect at midnight on Monday, and while Thailand accused Cambodia of violating the pact with skirmishes, peace has generally prevailed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - Hope intact - When the strikes started raining down around his home, Lat Laem says he took refuge in his brother's bunker -- built because border residents are accustomed to sporadic strife. He was initially reluctant to abandon his simple white home, so recently constructed that he has yet to hold a house-warming. When the drumbeat of blasts became too much to bear, he fled -- joining around 140,000 others in Cambodia, and 180,000 more in Thailand who were forced to quit their homes. He left with his wife and daughter, his sister-in-law and her children on a tractor-drawn wagon known locally as an "iron cow" -- piled with a few scant belongings including cooking gear and a fan -- and headed to a shelter 50 kilometres away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While they were gone the border was scarred by destruction, as both sides traded fire and allegations about the use of cluster bombs, the targeting of civilian homes and even of hospitals. Evacuated far from his prized property, Lat Laem was consumed by anxiety it would be claimed by the conflict. "I was worried that my house that I spent all that money to build might be damaged -- that would upset me," said Lat Laem. "I could not sleep." But pacing the perimeter of his own patch of land back near the contested frontier he confirms it is free of shrapnel scars -- totally undamaged by the turmoil. "It was not hit, it is intact," he marvelled. "Now I am happy that it is all good." suy/jts/sco The Brief Five weeks after a six-alarm fire at Fort Worth's Cooper Apartments, many residents are still unable to retrieve their belongings. The complex is now under new management, RPM Living, but residents report a continued lack of communication and no clear timeline for access. The cause of the devastating fire, which displaced hundreds and caused significant damage, remains under investigation. FORT WORTH, Texas - Five weeks after a six-alarm fire tore through a Fort Worth apartment building, many residents are still unable to get their belongings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, the management company overseeing the Cooper Apartments said it would begin contacting residents starting on Monday. The complex is under new management now, and residents said they still havent heard from anyone. No Relief for Residents What's new As of last week, the Cooper Apartments has a new management firm in place. RPM Living promised transparency after dozens of displaced residents complained that they still havent been allowed back into their apartments, and about the poor handling of the fire recovery effort. The firm said it would "continue to work to restore the building to a condition that will enable many of you to return and collect belongings." The previous firm said it would begin allowing access on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That hasn't happened yet, and it's not clear when RPM Living will allow it. What they're saying "The communication has been horrendous," said Juliet Cannizzo, who lives at the complex. Even though Cannizzos apartment was not one of the 24 units damaged by the six-alarm blaze in June, she hasnt been allowed to return to collect her belongings. Last week, she entered her building at her discretion. She returned on Monday, hoping for an official opportunity to retrieve the remainder of her things. "Its hard. Ive sent several emails and still havent heard anything. Ive called about five times this morning, no ones picked up the phone. And thats why I was hoping to speak to someone in person today," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cannizzo plans to move to a new apartment complex, but said she has no furniture or belongings to move. "Itll just be me and my air mattress in an empty apartment," she said. Cooper Apartments Fire The backstory The fire at the Cooper Apartments on West Rosedale Street in Fort Worth broke out on June 20. Everyone made it out of the six-story building safely, but the fire caused a significant amount of damage, including a partial roof collapse. It took roughly 150 firefighters and 50 fire trucks, including both engine and ladder trucks, to extinguish the flames. The heat was the primary reason for the six alarms. Firefighters had to work in rotations to avoid heat exhaustion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fire department also later told FOX 4 that the construction of the roof made it difficult for them to get water on the flames. The cause of the fire is still unknown. The Source FOX 4's Dionne Anglin gathered details for this story by interviewing residents at the Cooper Apartments, as well as past news coverage. CAIRO (Reuters) -Toting large suitcases and bags of belongings, the Sudanese families crowding into Cairo's main railway station hoped to be returning to relative stability after fleeing Sudan's civil war. They are among thousands of displaced Sudanese streaming back home from Egypt into territory retaken by the Sudanese armed forces from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary in Khartoum and its environs since the start of this year. "I miss every corner of Sudan, really. I'm very happy that I'm going back," one of the returnees, Malaz Atef, told Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The families were waiting to board a free train to the southern Egyptian city of Aswan, from where they would take buses to the Sudanese capital Khartoum. A couple of young girls wore hats reading, "Thank you, Egypt" in Arabic. Over 4 million Sudanese fled to neighbouring countries -- including more than 1.5 million to Egypt -- after war broke out between the army and the RSF in April 2023, according to figures from the International Organisation for Migration, or IOM. Since the start of this year, over 190,000 people have crossed the border from Egypt into Sudan, more than five times the number who returned in all of 2024, an IOM report said earlier this month. Sudan's ambassador to Egypt, Emad el-Din Adawy, who visited the station on Monday, said the returns marked "an important stage for reconstruction and bringing back stability." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the relative calm in the capital, fighting between the RSF and the army is still raging in the central Kordofan region and al-Fashir in Darfur in the west. The war, triggered by a dispute over a transition to civilian rule between the army and the RSF, has displaced over 12 million people and pushed half the population into acute hunger, according to the United Nations. Some Sudanese in Egypt have complained of difficulty finding jobs and discrimination, and Egypt has deported thousands of refugees it says entered illegally. Thousands of others have fled onwards to Libya. The weekly trains from Cairo to help Sudanese to return home voluntarily have been financed by Sudanese businessmen, according to Adawy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Sudanese who have gone back so far have mostly headed to Khartoum, as well as to Sennar and El Gezira states to the capital's south, according to the IOM. (Reporting by Sayed Sheasha; Writing by Alexander Dziadosz; Editing by Ros Russell) The Brief WisDOT is considering a diverging diamond interchange at I-94 and County F in Waukesha County. A nearby business owner is concerned that the construction project will impact his and other businesses. WisDOT says it would work with businesses during construction, and that construction would likely not last as long as it did for the Milwaukee County project. WAUKESHA COUNTY, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) has a spot in mind for Waukesha County's first diverging diamond interchange. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But for at least one business owner near I-94 and County F (Redford Boulevard), it's a sore spot. After a decade of serving up drinks and food, Pewaukees Point Burger Bar is under renovation. But General Manager Andy Macintosh is already thinking about another project he has little control over. FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android Current interchange at I-94/County F in Waukesha County "Its going to affect business in the area. I think it will affect our business," said Macintosh. Proposed project What we know The Wisconsin DOT is proposing a diverging diamond at I-94 and County F. Engineers say the new traffic pattern would help cut down on crashes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They say it will allow drivers to quote, "make free-flow right and left turns on to the major freeway" by shifting vehicles to the opposite side of the road. "I dont think that traffic at F is any of a problem coming off of 94, personally," added Macintosh. Milwaukee Countys first diverging diamond opened in November 2024. The interchange at I-43 and Brown Deer Road was under construction for more than a year. Macintosh says that is his biggest concern. Macintosh says he didnt even know about the project. Neighbors at Riverglen Christian Church say they also werent aware of a meeting planned for next week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Billed as an "open house" to talk about improvements to I-94 and County F, WisDOT is asking the public for feedback. The meeting will take place at the state office building along the Fox River in Waukesha on Aug. 5. WisDOT project study The WisDOT website says the project is currently in the "design phase." Construction wouldnt start until 2028. Macintosh hopes thats enough time for the dozen or so businesses nearby to plan ahead. "Either me or my other GM will probably end up going to this meeting. Well hear it all out and see how it goes," said Macintosh. I-94 at County F DOT response What they're saying A WisDOT spokesman declined an on-camera interview, but stressed that the Waukesha County diverging diamond may have a shorter construction window than the Milwaukee County project, as explained in the full response below: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "With this proposed alternative currently scheduled for construction in 2028, a lot of the traffic staging and construction plans still have to be developed. This first public meeting is an opportunity for the community to provide feedback for the project team to consider incorporating into its design. "And yes, there is a Diverging Diamond Interchange at I-43 and Brown Deer Road, but the projects and how they are built are not the same. The Brown Deer Road DDI was staged and planned, taking a 14-mile-long project corridor into consideration having to coordinate closures with adjacent interchanges. It took roughly a year and a half to build. Ramps were closed and offset, ranging from around 36 months depending on the ramp. These ramp closures had to be offset/alternate with ramp closures at nearby interchanges to not have both the northbound or southbound ramps closed at both interchanges at the same time. It also had to navigate [the] needs of constructing mainline I-43 lanes. "With the I-94 and County F interchange proposed as its own project, it may be a shorter build window pending the final traffic staging. All that to say that there are a lot of things WisDOT considers and evaluates in its traffic staging plans with projects, and still needs to do so with I-94 and F. "A total of 7 incidents have occurred since I-43 and Brown Deer Road opened into the DDI configuration last November - it should be noted that [the] majority of the crashes involved circumstances like a winter storm event, drivers under the influence, and aggressive driving. The WisDOT webpage shows the benefits of DDIs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Were working with the Waukesha County Business Alliance to help share information and to talk with its business community members, and weve directed correspondence to individual businesses near the area." - Dan Sellers, Communications Manager for the Wisconsin DOT, Southeast SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News What you can do Head to the WisDOT website to learn more about the project. The Source FOX6 spoke to a business owner near the current interchange. WisDOT also provided information in this report. This story is a collaboration with Popular Mechanics. As the nation is gripped by the upcoming trial in the case of the Long Island Serial Killer, a surprising breakthrough has come along regarding possible additional victims. Two bodies found 14 years apart near Long Islands Gilgo Beach have finally been identifiedand even more shockinglytheyre connected. A dismembered adult body found in Hempstead Lake State Park, which had commonly been referred to as Peaches due to a tattoo of the fruit being one of the only defining characteristics to remain, has been identified through DNA analysis as 26-year-old Tanya Jackson. The body of a 2-year-old child found roughly 20 miles away from Jackson has been identified as her daughter, Tatiana Dykes. Now, investigators are trying to determine how these two victims died, and if they are connected to the killings suspect Rex Heuermann is currently accused of having committed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When a story of modern forensic technology leading to a breakthrough in a cold case comes along, its common for historians and true crime enthusiasts alike to wonder what would have happened if this tech had been around during some of the more infamous crimes of past eras. It raises the question: Could the cutting-edge DNA analysis currently being deployed in the Gilgo Beach case have securedor even overturnedthe verdicts in some of the most infamous trials of the past century? According to a report in Long Islands Newsday, some believe it still could. Could DNA Analysis Solve the Crime of the Century? In what was called the Crime of the Century, the child of famed aviator Charles Lindbergh was kidnapped and held for ransom on March 1, 1932. Charles Jr.s dead body was ultimately recovered near the familys New Jersey home from which he had been taken. A German immigrant named Bruno Hauptmann was convicted of the kidnapping in 1935 and subsequently executed. But with a trial that hinged on elements like analysis of the wood grain of a ladder, some observers have been unconvinced of Hauptmanns guiltor, at the very least, are convinced Hauptmann did not act alone. Now, as Newsday notes, three of those doubters have come forward with a lawsuit, seeking to utilize the same modern DNA analysis deployed to identify the potential victims of the Gilgo Beach killings to reexamine 93-year-old evidence from the Lindbergh case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plaintiffs want access to certain pieces of evidencenamely several envelopes that contain the original ransom notes, Newsday wrote, [...] so they can submit the stamps and adhesives for forensic testing to possibly identify others involved in the crime and prove a conspiracy. Getty Images An attorney for the plaintiffs, comprised of an American history professor at the University of Kansas, a retired New Jersey teacher, and a developmental psychologist, hope to recover DNA from the adhesive materials in much the same manner as investigators were able to recover samples from the heavily degraded bodies on that Long Island beach. In a statement for the court filing, genetic genealogist Colleen Fitzpatrick remarked that it has only been recently that DNA testing and analysis have evolved with the potential of testing those envelopes to produce definitive investigative leads that could resolve lingering uncertainties. Although not one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, Fitzpatrick spoke to Newsday about the intended goal of the suit, stating that in essence, genetic genealogy could allow researchers to backtrack through public databases to find other modern-day relatives of any potential and long-dead co-conspirators in the kidnapping. She notes that DNA had previously been extracted from 19th century envelopes, so such an effort is not without precedent. The attorney who filed the complaint, Kurt W. Perhach, asserts that such analysis could clarify if Hauptmann had assistance in the crime, including a possible accomplice close to the Lindbergh family. There are far too many circumstantial things [in] this case, Perhach wrote, to have any possible belief that one strange person acted alone. You Might Also Like The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating a fish kill at Rock Creek Lake. (Photo via Google Maps) The Iowa Department of Natural Resources announced Tuesday it was investigating a fish kill at Rock Creek Lake and advised swimmers to avoid the lake until Thursday. According to the DNR, field staff were notified Monday of the kill and then observed dead fish sporadically in the lake. Staff also observed dead fish several miles upstream in the Rock Creek watershed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Water testing for dissolved oxygen, ammonia nitrogen and pH all revealed conditions acceptable for fish life, according to the release. The department said the fish kill is no longer active, although the investigation is ongoing. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A swimming advisory was posted at the lake and is in effect through Wednesday. DNR said the advisory was issued out of an abundance of caution. The last recorded fish kill at Rock Creek Lake was in May 2000 and due to natural causes like disease, parasites or stress, according the DNRs fish kill database. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE July 29 (UPI) -- Attorney General Pam Bondi on Monday evening announced that a misconduct complaint has been filed against District Court Chief Judge James Boasberg "for making improper public comments" about President Donald Trump, amid his administration's targeting of the U.S. judicial system. Boasberg, a President Barack Obama appointee, has rejected Trump's attempt to deport hundreds of Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador to be interned in a notorious mega prison for terrorists, attracting the ire of the president, who has called for the judge's impeachment. The complaint, obtained by both Politico and Courthouse News, focuses on comments made by Boasberg to Chief Justice John Roberts and some two dozen other judges who attended a March 11 judicial conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the document, Boasberg said he believed that the Trump administration would "disregard rulings of federal courts," which would trigger "a constitutional crisis." The Justice Department alleges that the comments deviated from the administrative matters generally discussed at the conference and were intended to influence Roberts and the other judges. The conference was held amid litigation on Trump's ability to summarily deport the Venezuelan migrants, and days before Boasberg ruled against the administration. He also ruled that Trump had deported the migrants to El Salvador in violation of his order -- an order that was vacated in April by a divided Supreme Court. The complaint states that within days of making the alleged comments, he "began acting on his preconceived belief that the Trump administration would not follow court orders." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These comments have undermined the integrity of the judiciary, and we will not stand for that," Bondi said in a statement on X announcing the filing of the complaint. The Trump administration has attracted staunch criticism from the legal profession over actions it has taken that have been described as targeting the independence of the U.S. judiciary system. Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has threatened to impeach judges who rule against him, including Boasberg, described them as "rouge judges," sanctioned law firms and lawyers linked to his political adversaries and has ignored or defied rulings he disagrees with. His administration most recently fired newly appointed U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey Desiree Leigh Grace because the New Jersey judges did not select Trump's pick for the position. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complaint against Boasberg was signed by Chad Mizelle, chief of staff for Bondi, who alleged in a statement that Boasberg's March comments violated the Canons of the Code of Conduct for U.S. Judges. "Federal judges often complain about the decline of public trust in the judiciary," he said on X. "But if the judiciary simply ignores improper conduct like Judge Boasberg's, it will have itself to blame when the public stops trusting it." The Justice Department, in the complaint, is asking the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia to launch a special investigation to determine whether Boasberg's conduct constitutes prejudice against the Trump administration. It also seeks "interim corrective measures," including reassignment of the cases related to the deportation of the Venezuelan migrants to another judge. The complaint is also the second that the Trump administration has filed against a judge. In February, Bondi filed a complaint -- which is still under review -- against Judge Ana Reyes for "hostile and egregious misconduct" against the Trump administration during litigation on the president's executive order to ban transgender service members from the military. The U.S. Department of Justice, headed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, filed a misconduct complaint against U.S. District Court Chief Judge James Boasberg on Monday for making improper public comments about President Trump and his Administration, Bondi said on X. Today at my direction, @TheJusticeDept filed a misconduct complaint against U.S. District Court Chief Judge James Boasberg for making improper public comments about President Trump and his Administration. These comments have undermined the integrity of the judiciary, and we will Attorney General Pamela Bondi (@AGPamBondi) July 28, 2025 The White Houses complaint was filed by Bondis chief of staff, Chad Mizelle, and accuses Boasberg of attempt(ing) to improperly influence Chief Justice Roberts and roughly two dozen other federal judges by straying from the traditional topics to express his belief that the Trump Administration would disregard rulings of federal courts and trigger a constitutional crisis, according to Fox News, who claimed to have reviewed the complaint. It apparently also mentioned Boasbergs actions in March, when he ordered the Trump administration to turn around a flight filled with alleged Venezuelan gang members who were being deported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration removed the men, citing the Alien Enemies Act as the basis for their actions, but when the administration did not follow Boasbergs order, he initiated contempt proceedings, which an appeals court later halted. The Supreme Court also overturned the deportation flight orders. During that time in March, Trump called for the judges impeachment and was met with a statement by U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Roberts, who shut down the notion. For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision. The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose, Roberts said in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boasberg was first appointed to the D.C. Superior Court bench by former President George W. Bush in 2002, but former President Barack Obama appointed him to a U.S. District Court judgeship in 2011. U.S. District Judge James Boasberg, chief judge of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, stands for a portrait at E. Barrett Prettyman Federal Courthouse in Washington, March 16, 2023. | Carolyn Van Houten The complaint was sent to Sri Srinivasan, the chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, for review. The DOJ is requesting Srinivasan to direct the complaint to a special investigative committee as an inquiry is essential to determine whether Judge Boasbergs conduct constitutes conduct prejudicial to the effective and expeditious administration of the business of the courts, per Fox News. It also requests that Boasberg be removed from the case involving the deportation of the Venezuelan migrants. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has fired two top officials from its antitrust division for insubordination, an agency spokesperson confirmed Tuesday. Roger Alford, principal deputy assistant attorney general, and Bill Rinner, deputy assistant attorney general and head of merger enforcement, were both let go from their roles in the administration. The firings, first reported by CBS News, come amid growing internal disagreements within the DOJs antitrust division. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The division is responsible for handling several of the administrations most high-profile antitrust cases, including two lawsuits against Google and another against Apple. It has reportedly been plagued by tensions over its merger policy. The DOJ has cleared the way for several mergers in recent weeks, including Hewlett Packard Enterprises (HPE) $14 billion acquisition of Juniper Networks and T-Mobiles $4.4 billion acquisition of UScellular. However, the HPE-Juniper settlement was only approved after Attorney General Pam Bondis chief of staff stepped in and overruled the head of the antitrust division, Gail Slater, CBS News reported. The DOJ sued over the $14 billion acquisition in January, shortly after President Trump took office. The decision marked a key point of alignment with the Biden administration, which had been preparing to challenge the merger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administration has generally maintained an aggressive approach toward antitrust enforcement in Trumps second term in office. Despite an effort by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg to lobby for a settlement, the Federal Trade Commission went ahead with its trial against the social media giant in April. Several Senate Democrats sent a letter to the judge overseeing the HPE-Juniper case on Monday, voicing concerns over the DOJs proposed settlement. Sens. Elizabeth Warren (Mass.), Amy Klobuchar (Minn.), Cory Booker (N.J.) and Richard Blumenthal (Conn.) called for the judge to hold an evidentiary hearing to determine whether the settlement is in the public interest. They argued the settlement fails to address the antitrust concerns raised in the DOJs initial complaint, while underscoring recent reporting that the antitrust division was sidelined and that HPE and Juniper retained lobbyists connected to the White House and attorney generals office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Justice Department must stand as the lawyers for the entire United States, the senators wrote. A settlement to resolve the challenge to HPEs proposed acquisition of Juniper should not be made on the backs of the American people while enriching well-connected lobbyists. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Domestic violence-related charges against former East Lyme police chief dropped EAST LYME, Conn. (WTNH) Charges against the former East Lyme police chief have been dropped, according to the Middletown Superior Court clerks office. Distrust in public safety emerges among East Lyme residents as 3 officials are under investigation Michael Finkelstein retired in May after a domestic violence investigation back in June 2024. He was charged with two counts of disorderly conduct, second-degree breach of peace and making a false statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, Finkelstein was also charged with violation of a protective order in December. All five charges against him have been dropped, the clerks office said. Michael Finkelstein (Source: Connecticut State Police) In July 2024, a judge allowed him to enter a diversion program for the domestic violence-related charges. His attorney said that if Finkelstein completed the program in one year, the state agreed to drop any additional charges. Finkelstein cited post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and poor decisions as reasons for his retirement in a letter released in May. He was police chief for eight years. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. U.S. Rep. Jennifer McClellan, D-Richmond, outside the Chesterfield County Courthouse on July 28, 2025, after meeting with court officials and advocates about recent ICE raids and their impact on immigrant communities. (Photo by Markus Schmidt/Virginia Mercury) U.S. Rep. Jennifer McClellan, D-Richmond, is pushing back against Gov. Glenn Youngkins recent claims that all 2,500 immigrants detained in statewide operations since March were violent offenders, saying Monday she doesnt believe it and wont until the administration provides proof. Until you show me that all 2,500, all of their cases, what they were convicted of you are innocent until proven guilty, McClellan told The Mercury after meeting with courthouse staff, advocates and attorneys at the Chesterfield County Courthouse, where Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have conducted ongoing raids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McClellan stopped short of directly accusing Youngkin of lying, but she made clear her doubts. I would say officials in the Trump administration are not telling the truth in 100% of the cases, she said. I think the governor either is not doing his due diligence to ask the right questions and is just parroting what he has been told at best. McClellans comments came as part of a broader rebuke of current immigration enforcement tactics in Virginia including federal-only ICE operations like the courthouse raids and the parallel efforts of Youngkins Virginia Homeland Security Task Force. I heard stories today about people who were detained when they came for their arraignment, so they havent been convicted and they havent had their trial, she said. I want details. And until the administration provides them, because we know they have lied in certain instances, I wont believe what the governor has to say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the Chesterfield arrests are not part of the task force, McClellan linked them as symptoms of a state and federal immigration system that she said increasingly violates due process and fosters fear among communities of color. Last week, the Richmond Democrat introduced legislation, H.R. 4703, that would require the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to track and publicly report every instance where U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents are detained or deported for immigration enforcement purposes. While the bills full text is not yet available, McClellan said its goal is to create transparency and prevent wrongful removals. We know that citizens and people lawfully present have been detained and deported, primarily because of the great reporting from the press, she said. But we dont know how many, we dont know all the circumstances, so this is part of my oversight responsibilities. On Monday, McClellan visited the Chesterfield courthouse at the invitation of Circuit Court Clerk Amanda Pohl, who said she was alarmed by what the courthouse staff has witnessed over the last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are not getting any of the names, were not getting anything like that, Pohl said of the individuals detained inside the courthouse. What were seeing at the General District Court is that people are coming in for traffic violations, for minor offenses. Theyre trying to have their day in court, and ICE is taking them. Pohl said that at least 16 people were detained by ICE agents during a single week in June, and that federal activity at the courthouse has continued since then though more sporadically. We saw somebody come in, who had a charge. His case was continued. He had no other prior convictions, and he was still taken by ICE. He didnt even get to have his day in court, and he was still taken from his family, she said. From what I understand, that gentleman was deported very quickly. A spokesman for ICE on Monday did not respond to a request for comment about the agencys ongoing operations in Chesterfield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Being an undocumented immigrant is not a crime, she said. And the dehumanization that this administration is doing trying to paint with a broad brush every undocumented immigrant, and U.S. citizens, that they are hardened criminals is wrong and is un-American. U.S. Rep. Jennifer McClellan, D-Richmond Youngkin has repeatedly stood by the arrests carried out by ICE and those under the Homeland Security Task Force a state initiative created earlier this year to work in coordination with federal partners, including ICE and has insisted that all detainees are dangerous criminals. They should be arrested, the governor said earlier this month, defending the task forces mission. These are folks that are here illegally and theyve committed crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But McClellan said the absence of supporting data makes such blanket characterizations irresponsible and dangerous. Nobody knows the details around it, she said. That is creating fear that we have seen among communities of color, particularly in the Spanish-speaking community or anybody whos brown. Virginia Attorney General Miyares, who has championed the task force and joined Youngkin in calling for tougher immigration enforcement, last week declined to provide evidence backing up the administrations violent offender claims when asked by The Mercury. McClellan said whats happening in Chesterfield and across the state goes far beyond any single program and is undermining trust in law enforcement and the courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were seeing people who arent showing up to get marriage licenses, who arent showing up to report crimes, to press charges, to testify, because theyre afraid, Am I going to be disappeared even though Ive done nothing wrong? she said. It is not making our communities safe. Its having the opposite effect. McClellan said shes heard from translators who are now afraid to appear in court, and domestic violence advocates who say victims are staying silent out of fear. Its hard enough to get someone to step forward who has been domestically or sexually abused, she said. Im hearing instances of all of that in the Richmond region, and it is concerning. McClellan also raised alarm over ICE agents reportedly wearing face coverings and refusing to identify themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All law enforcement agents, including immigration agents, need to be able to show their face and their badge or their identification, she said. If you cant see their face, you dont have their identification, you cant hold them accountable, and that person cannot enforce their own civil rights. And that is dangerous. While the Chesterfield raids are not tied to Youngkins task force, McClellan said the impact is the same a culture of fear driven by racial profiling and mass enforcement, not public safety. There are people who have been in this country, in some cases for decades, who may have been lawfully present when they first got here, or who may be on a path to citizenship, she said. There are refugees from Afghanistan who worked with the U.S. government. There are many reasons why someone may lack documentation today. That doesnt make them criminals. McClellan emphasized that immigration violations are civil offenses not crimes and said conflating them with criminal law is misleading. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Being an undocumented immigrant is not a crime, she said. And the dehumanization that this administration is doing trying to paint with a broad brush every undocumented immigrant, and U.S. citizens, that they are hardened criminals is wrong and is un-American. Recent analysis by Stateline adds further context to McClellans concerns: Fewer than half of the nearly 112,000 ICE arrests made nationwide between Jan. 20 and late June were of convicted criminals just 40 % far lower than the 53% rate during the same period under the Biden administration. The share of those arrested with violent crime convictions shrank from 10% to 7%, while arrests tied to drug convictions fell from 9% to 5%. At the same time, the number of detainees without any criminal record nearly tripled, rising from roughly 47% to 60% of ICE arrests, most commonly for minor traffic or immigration violations. McClellans demands for data and due process protections align with these national trends, as critics argue the enforcement push increasingly sweeps up individuals who lack serious criminal histories. Pohl said she invited several local officials, nonprofit leaders and attorneys to Mondays meeting, including Sheriff Karl Leonard, who runs the Chesterfield County jail. Unfortunately, we didnt get a response, she said. But Im sure he has other obligations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pohl also emphasized that her office does not coordinate with ICE or the Sheriffs department and is not participating in enforcement. Sheriff Leonard and I do not collaborate around this issue but we have made it very clear: Were not assisting ICE, she said. Leonard also did not respond to requests for comment Monday. For McClellan, the current moment echoes dark chapters of American history. This is very reminiscent, to me, of the backlash to Reconstruction, when Confederate iconography was placed at courthouses in an effort to intimidate certain communities, she said. That intimidation is happening here too, to brown people. It is wrong. It is very reminiscent of what we saw in Nazi Germany. As Virginias first Black congresswoman and a longtime civil rights attorney, McClellan said her concerns are rooted in protecting the constitutional rights of all residents. I think there are ways that we can invest in processing immigration cases in a much better way, she said. But I think the way not to do it is to dehumanize people. And what the Trump administration is doing is dehumanizing the immigrant community, whether they are citizens or not, including children. And that is wrong. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE More than 3,000 pages of documents, including transcripts of testimony that current and former cannabis regulators gave behind closed doors last summer, have been made available by the Superior Court as the former chair of the Cannabis Control Commission continues to contest her firing. Treasurer Deborah Goldberg suspended Shannon OBrien as CCC chairwoman in September 2023 and fired her in September 2024 after considering two outside investigations and about 19 hours of private meetings held last summer. OBrien has contested Goldbergs claims of gross misconduct and is appealing her firing through Suffolk Superior Court. Among the allegations Goldberg cited in firing OBrien were that the former chairwoman made rude and disrespectful comments, remarks, statements, and presumptions to Commission staff and colleagues that were or were perceived to be race-based or, at minimum, to be racially, ethnically, and culturally insensitive; and that she contributed to a hostile work environment with the way she treated (or bullied, according to Goldberg) former CCC executive head Shawn Collins, a one-time Goldberg deputy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OBrien has contended that Goldberg appointed her to be a change agent at an agency in need of a shakeup, that she was met with insubordination and hostility from the staff, and that her relationship with Goldberg soured when she raised the idea of removing Collins. The documents that became available last week, which along with an already-public 83-page memo detailing Goldbergs decision to fire OBrien as CCC chair make up the five-volume administrative record of the case, include the investigators reports, internal CCC emails, and testimony from and cross-examination of investigators, OBrien herself, CCC Commissioner Kimberly Roy and former CCC Chair Steven Hoffman. Aside from the public memo, the rest of the record had been impounded since Goldberg filed it in February but a judge in June denied Goldbergs bid to keep it withheld from public view. In the meantime, the court provided an opportunity for anyone whose personal information is included in the five-volume administrative record to ask that it be protected from disclosure. The trove sheds light on dysfunction at the CCC. Internal emails show distrust and bickering were rampant among senior employees. Current and former regulators said it was common for CCC staffers to use phrases like I dont work for you to dismiss orders or requests from commissioners. And the cache includes dim assessments of Collinss managerial skills as executive director (along with plaudits for his policy chops) from multiple commissioners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also shows the pressure put on the CCC by Beacon Hill and the industry as the regulatory agency struggled to make progress on key issues. That dynamic forced action earlier this year, when the House of Representatives voted unanimously to entirely overhaul the CCC in part due to the perception of it as an ineffective regulator and as an organization beset with personnel conflicts and scandals. The overhaul would also eliminate Goldbergs power to appoint the CCC chair, leaving all appointments to the governor. The complete administrative record also provides the most complete picture yet of the evidence Goldberg relied on when she fired OBrien. Ms. OBrien has consistently maintained that sunlight is the best disinfectant. She hopes that now that the public can finally access the materials involved in her Removal Hearing, the public can see the secret, one-sided process that Treasurer Goldberg utilized to remove Ms. OBrien as Chair of the Cannabis Control Commission and can truly understand that the Treasurer lacked the evidence that meets the statutory standards to remove Ms. OBrien, lawyers for OBrien from Todd & Weld said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the full administrative record on file with the court, OBriens lawyers last week filed a motion for judgment on the pleadings, essentially asking Judge Robert Gordon to decide the case based on all of the information presented so far. OBrien is specifically asking Gordon to rule in her favor and reinstate her as CCC chair with back pay. Goldbergs office filed an opposition to that motion and made its own motion for Gordon to decide the case in its favor. The treasurers office said there was no legal error by the Treasurer that affected OBriens material rights and that the Treasurers decision was supported by substantial evidence. OBriens side is due to file a reply brief with the court by Aug. 4, but otherwise, no further proceedings have been scheduled in Superior Court. Cannabis in Massachusetts Read the original article on MassLive. Trump said he's "thinking about" sending checks to Americans paid for by tariff revenue. GOP senators say that's a bad idea, and that they'd prefer the money be spent on the debt. It's similar to what they said about the "DOGE Dividend" earlier this year. If you think you're about to get another stimulus check in the mail from Uncle Sam, think again. First, it was the "DOGE Dividend." Now, it's a rebate check paid for by tariff revenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump said on Friday that he's "thinking about a little rebate" for Americans of "a certain income level." That would require an act of Congress, so Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri introduced a bill on Monday that would send $600 tax rebate checks to lower-income Americans. Yet the proposal faces some of the same headwinds that quickly scuttled the DOGE check idea earlier this year: Most Republicans simply don't like it. "It'll never pass," Republican Sen. Bernie Moreno of Ohio flatly told reporters on Tuesday, rejecting the idea. "We have a $37 trillion debt." Trump also didn't propose the idea himself, but was responding to an idea floated by a reporter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You just made a lot of news," Trump told the reporter at the time. It's similar to what happened in December, when Trump said he'd "consider" raising the minimum wage after being asked about it by a reporter, or when he said DOGE checks were "under consideration." Ultimately, both ideas ended up fizzling. How the tariff rebate check would work Trump's tariffs, ever-changing as they are, have brought in some additional revenue. The rebate check is one proposal for how to spend it. According to US Treasury data, the federal government has collected over $100 billion from customs duties so far this year, and Secretary Scott Bessent said earlier this month that the US could be on track to collect $300 billion this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hawley's bill would use that money to provide checks of at least $600 for each individual and dependent child in a family. Thus, a family of four would receive at least $2,400. The bill also allows for larger checks if the tariff revenue soars higher than current projections, which Hawley's office estimates to be around $150 billion. It's designed to primarily benefit lower-income Americans: the rebate would be phased out for joint filers making more than $150,000, a household head making more than $112,500, and an individual making more than $75,000. "I mean, who better to benefit from that than working people who could use a break?" Hawley asked reporters at the Capitol on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the very least, Hawley's legislation does not suffer from the same math problem that beset the $5,000 DOGE checks, which were based on Elon Musk's lofty and ultimately unrealistic expectation of $2 trillion in savings as the result of cost-cutting. Hawley's plan is modeled after the pandemic-era stimulus check programs. The second round of stimulus checks, which were also $600 per person, ultimately cost roughly $141 billion, according to Internal Revenue Service data. Hawley said he had not yet spoken with Trump about the idea. The White House did not respond to a request for comment. 'It's the dumbest idea I've ever heard' For the most part, other GOP senators say they'd prefer to use tariff revenue elsewhere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky said the idea was "ridiculous" given the size of the national debt, which currently stands at more than $37 trillion. "We're gonna basically borrow money to send it to the American people? There is no rebate if there's no money," Paul said. "I mean, it's the dumbest idea I've ever heard." "Well, when we have a surplus, I'd be all for it," said Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin said of the tariff rebate checks. "But we're $37 trillion in debt, running a deficit that's about $2 trillion as far as the eye can see. I would oppose it." Sen. Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming told BI she'd also prefer to see any tariff revenue be used to pay down the debt or to fund a strategic Bitcoin reserve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You can take at least a portion of those tariff revenues, hold them in reserve, and they would appreciate in value at a pace that far exceeds any other asset," Lummis said. "I think rebating it is not as good an idea as either paying down the debt or saving it in a reserve. I think it's kind of a lost opportunity." For Hawley, a self-styled populist who recently introduced a bill to raise the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour, the proposal is another attempt to focus attention on the GOP's working-class base. "Why shouldn't working people benefit from the president's policies, is my question to my fellow Republicans," Hawley said. For now, he appears to be going it alone, telling reporters he's not aware of any GOP colleagues who also support the idea. "I don't know, good question," Hawley said. "Let me know if you find somebody." Read the original article on Business Insider (NewsNation) In light of a spate of recent aviation near-misses, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy told NewsNation, Of course I am concerned. The FAA is concerned. The American people are concerned. Duffy told NewsNation he and his agency are leaning into the incidents and looking for solutions: What is key, we are not ignoring it. The pilot of a SkyWest flight heading from Minneapolis to Minot, North Dakota, avoided a midair collision with a B-52 bomber by performing an aggressive maneuver on July 18 one week before a Southwest Airlines flight plunged shortly after takeoff when it was alerted of a nearby plane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Southwest begins selling flights with assigned seats Duffy said it is important to approach each incident individually. Was it something about air traffic control? Was it military? Was it civilian aircraft? Were there technology failures? Duffy said. We have to do that investigation on each of them to figure out what the problem was, to then craft the right solution. Data from the Federal Aviation Agency shows there have been at least 134 commercial airplane incidents so far this year, with at least seven categorized as near-misses. We are actually looking at it and figuring out how we navigate our airspace and make it safer because, again, near misses one day can lead to a devastating crash the next, Duffy told NewsNation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recent flightmare incidents may give air travelers pause Solutions could come in the form of enhanced tech, Duffy said. By using artificial intelligence and Department of Transportation team members to assess airports across the nation, Duffy hopes to spot critical issues before they result in a crash. I do not want to have another DCA on my hands under this administration, Duffy added, referencing the fatal midair collision in January at Reagan National Airport that left 67 people dead. Union Pacific plans to acquire Norfolk Southern in $85B deal On Wednesday, the National Transportation Safety Board will begin three days of hearings over that crash between an American Airlines regional jet and a military helicopter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigative hearings, which come six months after the crash, aim to determine the facts and circumstances of the incident, according to the agency. I am looking forward to the hearing tomorrow, and I think hearings to bring out evidence and information and give the Congress knowledge is critically important, Duffy told NewsNation. NewsNations Anna Kutz contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. (WHTM) Pennsylvania State Senator Doug Mastriano has done everything but launch a formal campaign for governor. Mastriano, the Republican Partys 2022 gubernatorial nominee, unveiled a refreshed version of his Doug4Gov.com website on Tuesday. The site does not explicitly state is running for governor, but it does include his previous campaign slogan, Walk as Free People. Close Thanks for signing up! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now This Week in Pennsylvania It also features a five-minute video narrated by the state senator and his wife, Rebecca Mastriano. In the video, the two discuss American history, Mastrianos military service, and their political ideals. Hours later, Mastriano sent out a fundraising request to supporters that directly positioned the state senator against Gov. Josh Shapiros reelection bid. While the post characterized Mastriano as leading a battle for the soul of Pennsylvania, it stopped short of declaring his candidacy, as he has for weeks now. Earlier this month, Mastriano posted four campaign graphics on his X and Facebook accounts. The designs each read Doug Mastriano for Governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement abc27 News previously reached out to Mastriano for comment about the social media posts, but did not receive a response. On a recent live stream, Mastriano said, Theres no announcement yet on whether hes running. Who is running for Governor of Pennsylvania? Still, he continues to express interest. Shortly after relaunching his website, Mastriano shared a post on his X account from Polling USA that showed him leading a GOP gubernatorial poll from Public Policy Polling. A retired Army colonel, Mastriano told abc27 in February that he believes he could win another primary after clinching the partys gubernatorial nomination in 2022 with nearly 44% support in a nine person primary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He went on to lose the general election to Shapiro by nearly 800,000 votes, with Shapiro receiving more than 56% of the vote. Who is running for Governor of Pennsylvania? If Mastriano does run again, it could make for a contentious Republican primary. State Treasurer Stacy Garrity said on July 9 that she will make a decision on whether to run for governor very soon. Elected twice to the position, Garrity holds Pennsylvanias record for the most votes received by a statewide candidate. Perennial candidate John Ventre, who ran in 2022 but did not receive enough signatures to make it on the GOP primary ballot, has also declared his candidacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congressman Dan Meuser announced in July 2025 that he would not run for governor. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. [Attached video: Lorain community holds events honoring officers injured, killed in shooting] CLEVELAND (WJW) Residents and businesses across Northeast Ohio continue to find ways to show support after the ambush shooting that left Lorain Police Officer Phillip Wagner dead, and two other officers injured. Watch: Moment of silence for slain officer Phillip Wagner at Guardians game Pizza 216 in downtown Cleveland is one of those businesses, announcing Tuesday on Facebook theyll serve free pizza to any officers who stop by the restaurant following the funeral on Wednesday, July 30. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the least we can do on what will be a tough day for all, the post stated. Additionally, the restaurant will match up to $1,000 in donations to support Officer Wagners family, the post said. Public memorial set for slain Lorain police officer Phillip Wagner Wednesday in Cleveland Wagner, 35, was one of three officers ambushed and shot by a gunman on Wednesday, July 23. He died Thursday, July 24, at a hospital, according to authorities. Click HERE for more information on funeral details and a public memorial service at Rocket Arena. Pizza 216 is located at 401 Euclid Avenue. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. Police in Angola say five people, including a police officer, have been killed and more than 1,200 have been arrested after demonstrations in the capital, Luanda. What began as a three-day strike by taxi drivers against rising petrol prices has escalated into one of the most widespread and disruptive waves of protest the country has seen in recent years. Thousands of people joined demonstrations in the capital on Monday that saw roads blocked, shops looted, cars destroyed as well as clashes between demonstrators and police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police also reported attempted demonstrations and looting in the provinces of Icolo e Bengo and Huambo, which they now say have been contained. Pockets of protests had continued in Luanda on Tuesday, along with further clashes with police and more looting of shops. The unrest has also involved reports of gunfire in parts of the capital. "The fuel price issue is just the last straw that has reignited widespread public discontent... People are fed up. Hunger is rife, and the poor are becoming miserable," a prominent local activist, Laura Macedo, told the BBC. The strike was called by taxi operators in response to the government's decision to raise the price of diesel by over 33%, a measure introduced in early July as part of plans to remove fuel subsidies in the oil-rich nation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not only has this resulted in higher fares for urban Angolans who rely on the taxis, but it has also driven up the price of staple foods and other basics - as suppliers who transport those goods by road are passing on their additional costs to consumers. But President Joao Lourenco has dismissed such concerns, saying that protesters are using petrol prices as a pretext to undermine the government. "Even after the increase, the price of diesel in Angola remains around 40 US cents [per litre], and there are not many countries in the world with prices this low," he told CNN Portugal in a recent interview. The average monthly wage in Angola is just 70,000 kwanzas ($75; 56), and a promise by the presidency to increase this to 100,000 kwanzas has not materialised. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As frustrations spilled over on Monday, groups of protesters took to the streets in various parts of Luanda, chanting against fuel price increases, nearly five decades of rule by the governing MPLA party and expressing their frustration with the country's current state of affairs. Laura Macedo, seen here at a smaller fuel protest earlier this month, says Angolans are fed up [Luamba Muinga] State-run media in Angola came under heavy criticism on social media for continuing with its regular programming and failing to cover the demonstrations. By Monday evening, the MPLA warned young people not to join the protests and said that these "acts of vandalism are deliberately intended to tarnish and hinder the joyful celebration" of Angola's 50th anniversary of independence. Local authorities in Luanda on Monday also issued a public statement expressing "deep concern" over the events, which they described as "disturbances and acts of vandalism associated with the forced halting of taxi services". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the statement, the strike originally announced by taxi organisations had been called off following negotiations with authorities. However, it said, "groups of unidentified individuals, without any legitimate representation of the taxi sector, resumed the call for strike actions, promoting intimidation and violence, including attacks on vehicles circulating on public roads, even those not providing taxi services". Much of these protests have been spontaneous in nature. A major taxi association, Anata, has distanced itself from Monday's violence but vowed to continue the three-day strike, saying "the voice of the taxi drivers reflects the outcry of the Angolan people". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Wednesday afternoon, major shops, banks and other businesses have remained closed. Some civil servants have returned to work, but many people who work for private companies have stayed at home on the advice of their employers. Police warn they are patrolling the streets and will continue to "intervene where there are still disturbances" to "re-establish public order and peace". Some shops in the capital were raided [AFP via Getty Images] More BBC stories on Angola: [Getty Images/BBC] Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent. Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica BBC Africa podcasts MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) Two patients were taken to Ruby Memorial Hospital after their vehicle went into Deckers Creek Monday night. A single-vehicle crash was called in at 10:26 p.m. on July 28. According to the West Virginia State Police, the vehicle went off the road near the intersection of W.Va. Route 7 and Pixler Hill Road in the Dellslow area of Monongalia County and into the creek. According to the Brookhaven Volunteer Fire Department, the vehicle was an SUV that was on its top in the creek when first responders arrived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A passenger was able to get out of the vehicle, but the driver was trapped inside until the firefighters arrived and removed them, troopers said. Missing man found dead at West Virginia park The passenger was listed as in serious condition and the driver was listed as in critical condition, according to the state police, and both patients were transported to Ruby Memorial Hospital. There are no updates on their condition. The incident is being investigated as a vehicle crash by the West Virginia State Police, and crews from the Morgantown Police Department, Brookhaven VFD, Cool Springs VFD, Cheat Lake VFD and a water rescue team from the Granville Fire Department as well as the Mon EMS were also on scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. Editors note: This corrects what happened leading up to the crash. We regret the error. GREEN TWP., Ohio (WKBN) A driver was taken to a hospital after police said that the driver hit a tree, causing the car to go into a ditch. Crews were called to the 6800 block of Salem-Unity Road around 6 a.m. Goshen Police Lt. McBride said the driver hit a tree trunk and went into a ditch. Crews said the driver was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For a short time, the tree was blocking the roadway. The tree was moved out of the roadway, and the vehicle was towed. The roadway is back open. Michael Reiner and Andrew Peterson contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Drones attacked the town of Salsk in Russia's Rostov Oblast on the night of 28-29 July. Local residents have reported a large-scale fire near railway facilities. Source: Russian Telegram channels; Russian Defence Ministry on Telegram Details: Local residents wrote on social media that Salsk had come under drone attack. Several Telegram channels reported a series of explosions at around 02:00 and the sound of air defence systems responding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Videos posted on social media show a large-scale fire which, according to eyewitnesses, broke out near the railway junction. Ukrainska Pravda's editorial team cannot independently verify this information. Salsk is known as a major railway junction in Rostov Oblast's southeast. Acting Rostov Oblast Governor Yury Slyusar confirmed the attack on the railway station. "A fire broke out at the railway station and a passenger train was moved to a safe distance. A total of 45 firefighters and 12 appliances are involved in the firefighting effort," he said. Update: The Russian Defence Ministry reported in the morning that their air defence had supposedly intercepted and destroyed 74 Ukrainian UAVs. They claimed to have downed 43 drones over Russias Bryansk Oblast, 22 over Rostov Oblast, 6 over Kaluga Oblast, 2 over Smolensk Oblast and 1 over Leningrad Oblast. The Defence Ministry has not reported the total number of drones that attacked Russia, as usual, and avoids mentioning the consequences of the attack. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! On Sunday, the Caldwell County Sheriffs Office conducted a drug search that led to the arrest of Paul Witherspoon. ALSO READ: Deputies involved in shootout during drug search in Bethlehem Witherspoon, 47, was taken into custody after authorities seized approximately 85 grams of methamphetamine and 19 grams of cocaine from the residence. He faces charges of trafficking methamphetamine and possession with intent to sell and deliver cocaine, with a secured bond set at $50,000. The month-long investigation by the Caldwell County Sheriffs Narcotic Agents resulted in the seizure of approximately 260 grams of methamphetamine and 19 grams of cocaine. According to North Carolina State Drug Guidelines, the narcotics have a street value of over $43,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was a great team effort and I appreciate all the assistance we received during this investigation, said Caldwell County Sheriff, Kevin H. Bean. We have zero tolerance for all drug users. We are doing our best to send them to prison. The operation was supported by the Lenoir Police Department, the Alexander and Watauga County Sheriff Offices, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NC SBI). The Caldwell County Sheriffs Office encourages citizens to provide information on illegal drug activities, assuring that such assistance will be kept confidential. WATCH: Drug bust auction draws crowd in Caldwell County Late summers season of nighttime spectacles gets an unofficial kickoff Tuesday as two regular meteor showers will peak simultaneously tonight and into early Wednesday. Though among the minor meteor shower events, activity for both the Southern Delta Aquariid and Alpha Capricornids will be at peak activity between 12 a.m. and 3 a.m. local time for viewers in the Northern Hemisphere. Individually, the two showers arent the most dramatic of shooting star events but together theyre expected to generate 20 or more meteors per hour and some of the phenomena may appear as larger fireballs, according to the American Meteor Society. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And for those with clear skies overhead, conditions should be excellent for viewing the meteors. Late July in 2025 will be a great time to view meteor activity, as the moon will be in the evening sky and setting before the activity is strongest, the American Meteor Society explained on its website. With each shower expected to produce up to a dozen visible meteors per hour under dark skies, the doubleheader means the total number of meteors do add up, Thaddeus LaCoursiere, planetarium program coordinator at the Bell Museum in St. Paul, Minnesota, told the Associated Press. Look for flashes of light in the night sky, LaCoursiere said, adding that both are very nice classic meteor showers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watchers dont need any special equipment to observe meteors and should look for activity in the southern sky. Whats the origin of a meteor shower? Meteor showers are regular phenomena that occur as the Earth travels through debris fields left behind by comets and, in some cases, asteroids. The showers peaking on Tuesday are the result of debris from two comets, comet 96P/Machholz and comet 169P/NEAT, entering the Earths atmosphere and burning up in the extreme heat of atmospheric resistance. This image provided by NASA shows comet 96P Machholz, which orbits the sun about every six years, and is suspected to cause the Southern Delta Aquariids meteor showers. | NASA/ESA/SOHO The Alpha Capricornids produced by slower-moving meteors may have tails that linger slightly longer in the sky, said Nick Moskovitz of the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona. A bonus to the north Those planning on staying up late, or getting up early, to catch the show may also want to keep half an eye on the northern sky as the popular and prolific Perseids meteor display is also under way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Perseids, which are generated by debris from comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, are active from July 17 through Aug. 23 this year with peak activity expected on Aug. 12-13, according to NASA. With swift and bright meteors, Perseids frequently leave long wakes of light and color behind them as they streak through Earths atmosphere. And they are one of the most plentiful showers with about 50 to 100 meteors seen per hour. NASA reports the Perseids are best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere during the pre-dawn hours, though at times it is possible to view meteors from this shower as early as 10 p.m. local time. Dubai International Airport welcomed a record 46 million passengers in the first half of this year, authorities said on Tuesday, despite disruptions due to the Iran-Israel war The facility marked its busiest first half on record with a 2.3 percent year-on-year growth, Dubai Airports said in a statement, "despite temporary regional airspace disruptions in May and June". During the 12-day Iran-Israel war, airlines cancelled flights to many Middle East destinations as some governments closed their airspace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the first six months of 2025, the average monthly traffic stood at around 7.7 million passengers or 254,000 daily travellers. "Based on our performance to date and a positive outlook, we expect the annual traffic to reach 96 million this year, bringing us closer to the symbolic 100 million milestone," said Dubai Airports chief executive Paul Griffiths. In 2024, Dubai International Airport recorded its highest annual passenger traffic in history, totalling 92.3 million. "January was the busiest month of the period and also set a new monthly record, with 8.5 million guests," said the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As we enter the second half of the year, travel activity is expected to accelerate," it added. The top countries for passenger traffic to and from Dubai were India, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom. The Emirati city, located between Asia, Europe and Africa, has been ranked the world's busiest air hub for international passengers for a decade. Dubai is planning a $35 billion expansion and relocation of the airport to Al Maktoum International, on the city's outskirts, in 2032. The new airport will be scaled up in phases, with an eventual capacity of about 240 million -- expected to be the world's largest by a wide margin saa/aya/dv Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy delivers the annual State of the State address on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, in the Alaska Capitol. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon) Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy announced his policy priorities for the Alaska State Legislature for when they reconvene for a special session scheduled to start on Saturday. On Monday, the governor called for legislators to address what he called Alaskas chronic education outcome crisis and to reconsider his executive order they had previously voted down, creating a new Department of Agriculture that he said would strengthen food security in Alaska. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Separately, the Alaska State Legislature released a joint statement on Monday from leaders of the House and Senate majorities announcing their focus for the special session: two override votes. One would override Dunleavys budget veto of more than $50 million for Alaska schools, and the second vote would be on a bill to boost legislative oversight of oil and gas revenues. After the votes, they said they intend to adjourn. Dunleavy called the session last month, then asked the 19 Republican members of the House minority caucus to stay away from the session for the first five days to boycott the override votes. This drew outrage and criticism from some members of the House and Senate majorities as they rally support for the overrides, particularly to restore funding for K-12 schools. The Legislature is required to take up veto override votes within the first five days of the next session, and 45 votes of 60 members are needed to override the governors budget veto of school funding. A lower bar, of 40 votes, is needed to override non-budget bills. Dunleavys office did not respond to a request for comment on Monday about whether he is still asking Republicans to stay away. In a statement posted on social media, Dunleavy said he would be in Juneau when the special session begins. I invite all legislators to be there to focus on solutions that deliver real results for Alaskans, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dunleavy released an agenda with eight items, including an executive order creating a Department of Agriculture to focus on food security for Alaska and growing the states agricultural sector. The other seven items were focused on education policy: tribal compacting between the state Department of Education and Early Development and select tribes to create better performing schools; expand the corporate tax credit program for education; authorize the Department of Education as a charter school authorizer in addition to local districts; allow public school students to enroll in any public school that has room, including outside of a students resident district; support grants for reading improvement and for a new after school reading tutoring program; pass recruitment retention payments to classroom teachers to reduce turnover, especially in areas of the state that suffer from chronic teacher turnover; and establish long-term certainty in funding for K-12 schools if agreement is reached on policy. This is an opportunity to address Alaskas performance issues and funding issues in K-12 education well into the future, Dunleavy said in a statement released with the announcement. By addressing this now, school districts, students, parents, teachers, and policymakers will have certainty and will not have to debate this issue during the regular session that begins in January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Alaska House and Senate majorities have very different priorities for Saturday. A statement from House Speaker Bryce Edgmon, I-Dillingham, and Senate President Gary Stevens, R-Kodiak, on Monday said legislators will immediately go into a joint session at 10:15 a.m. on Saturday to take up two override votes: restoring $51 million in public education funding and overriding the Governors veto of Senate Bill 183, which affirms the Legislatures oversight of oil and gas tax revenues. After which, the Legislature intends to adjourn later that day, having completed its work, the statement said. Stevens questioned the timing of the session, which is being held when legislators had previous commitments and plans. He emphasized both measures passed with broad bipartisan support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This special session was called under circumstances that raise serious concerns, not only about its timing but also its clear aim to complicate legislative participation. Nevertheless, I urge every lawmaker not formally excused to be present in Juneau to fulfill our constitutional duty, Stevens said. These override votes are not just symbolic. They are about preparing Alaskas students, restoring public trust in how we manage billions in state revenues, and maintaining the Legislatures role as a co-equal branch of government. We owe it to our constituents and the future of this state to show up and do our jobs, he said. Edgmon also called on every legislator to appear in Juneau to participate in the override votes. Alaskans expect us to lead, not walk away from our responsibilities. Families, students, and teachers are counting on us to follow through on the commitments we made during the regular session, Edgmon said. This special session is not about partisanship, but about standing up for our students and preserving the checks and balances that keep government accountable. Every elected state lawmaker needs to uphold their constitutional duty, come to Juneau, and vote their conscience. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) The Netherlands has banned two far-right Israeli ministers from entering the country and the European Union has proposed suspending Israel from a lucrative tech investment program as frustration mounts over worsening conditions in Gaza. The ban targets hard-line National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, key partners in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus coalition. It was announced in a letter sent late Monday by Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp to lawmakers along with other measures, declaring The war in Gaza must stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pair are champions of the Israeli settlement movement that supports continuing the war in Gaza, facilitating what they call the voluntary emigration of its Palestinian population and building Jewish settlements. Britain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Norway imposed financial sanctions on the two men last month. EU considers sanctions on Israel's science and tech access The European Commission on Monday proposed partially suspending Israels access to a lucrative science and technology program. The European Parliament could call a vote to cut off Israels access to the investment arm of the European Innovation Council. To pass, the vote would need 55% of the blocs 27-member nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 900 million investment program is focused on small businesses and disruptive innovations that have potential dual-use applications, such as in cybersecurity, drones, and artificial intelligence, the commission said in a statement. It said the partial suspension of Israeli companies from applying for grants or equity investments worth 200 million annually is a targeted and reversible action and keeps intact Israel's access to roughly two-thirds of the program that is for civilian use. The commission found Israels military campaign in Gaza breached terms of a bilateral deal between Brussels and Israel known as an Association Agreement, according to senior officials tasked with communicating for the commission who were not authorized to speak publicly. European countries pressure Israel to let in more aid Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Europe has widely soured on Israel over Gaza. Countries including Ireland, Spain and the Netherlands have sought to aggressively pressure Israel to let in more aid and cease military operations. Israel has yet to reach the six points agreed in a new aid deal with the EU, which include adequate amounts of daily trucks allowed or newly opened border crossings, according to senior officials. EU aid teams have been prevented from entering Gaza despite recent humanitarian pauses. The suspension is one of 10 options presented by the commission to member states. Other steps could be suspending an aviation agreement, blocking imports from settlements and curtailing travel for Israelis in the visa-free zone known as Schengen, according to a leaked document seen by The Associated Press and verified by two EU diplomats. Like the Netherlands, other nations could act on their own to sanction specific companies or individuals in Israel or the occupied West Bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pressure has been mounting on the Dutch government, which is gearing up for elections in October, to change course on Israeli policy. Last week, thousands demonstrated at train stations across the country, carrying pots and pans to signify the food shortage in Gaza. The government also will summon the Israeli ambassador to the Netherlands to urge Netanyahu to change course and immediately take measures that lead to a substantial and rapid improvement in the humanitarian situation throughout the Gaza Strip, Veldkamp wrote. Ben-Gvir and Smotrich remained defiant. In a statement on social media, Smotrich said European leaders were surrendering to the lies of radical Islam and Jews may not be able to live safely in Europe in the future. Ben-Gvir said in Europe a Jewish minister from Israel is unwanted, terrorists are free, and Jews are boycotted," but he will continue to act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel says Hamas is the reason aid isn't reaching Gaza After international pressure, Israel over the weekend announced humanitarian pauses, airdrops and other measures meant to allow more aid to Gaza, but Palestinians say little or nothing has changed on the ground. The U.N. has described it as a one-week scale-up of aid and Israel has not said how long the latest measures would last. Israel asserts Hamas is the reason aid isnt reaching Palestinians in Gaza and accuses its militants of siphoning aid to support its rule in the territory. The U.N. denies aid looting is systematic and says it lessens or ends entirely when enough aid is allowed to enter Gaza. Netanyahu and his former defense minister, Yoav Gallant, are wanted by the International Criminal Court over allegations of crimes against humanity. They are accused of using starvation as a method of warfare by restricting humanitarian aid and of intentionally targeting civilians in Israels campaign against Hamas in Gaza. Member states of the ICC are obliged to arrest the men if they arrive on their territory. ___ McNeil reported from Brussels. Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv contributed to this report. AMSTERDAM (Reuters) -The Dutch government will summon Israel's ambassador to the Netherlands to denounce the "unbearable and indefensible" situation in Gaza and it has imposed travel bans on two far-right Israeli cabinet ministers, the government said in a letter published late on Monday. Israeli government ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich will no longer be allowed to enter the Netherlands, which accuses them of repeatedly inciting violence against Palestinians and calling for an "ethnic cleansing" of the Gaza strip. The Dutch decision follows similar moves last month by Britain, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Norway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In remarks to journalists on Tuesday, Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said the Netherlands would also push for EU trade sanctions against Israel because it has not fully implemented its agreement with the European Union on increasing aid supplies to Gaza. "Because that (agreement) is not yet fully implemented, we now make the case in the EU for suspension of the trade part of the EU Israel association agreement," he said. Israel's foreign minister, Gideon Saar, responded to the travel ban on the two ministers by summoning the Dutch ambassador, the ministry's spokesperson said on Tuesday. (Reporting by Bart Meijer and Stephanie van den Berg; Editing by Michael Perry and Leslie Adler) Its easy to dismiss random, flu-like symptoms as a sign that youre coming down with something. But when they stick around for weeks and seem to be getting worse, its fair to have questions. While there are certain symptoms of classic Hodgkin lymphoma that may mimic the flu, oncologists say the odds are high that youre dealing with something else. Hodgkin lymphoma is not a common diseasethe American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that there will be about 8,720 new cases diagnosed this year, for example. But its diagnosed often enough that the symptoms should at least be on your radar. What is Hodgkin lymphoma? Hodgkin lymphoma is one of the main types of lymphoma, which is a type of cancer that develops in the lymphatic system (part of the bodys immune system), according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. There are a few key differences from the more common and better-known non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma can develop in lymph nodes anywhere in the body, while Hodgkin lymphoma usually starts in the upper body, according to Moffitt Cancer Center. Hodgkin lymphoma also tends to progress in a more predictable way than non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meet the experts: Sameh Gaballa, M.D., an oncologist and associate member in the Moffitt Cancer Center Department of Malignant Hematology; Jack Jacoub, M.D., oncologist and medical director of MemorialCare Cancer Institute at Orange Coast and Saddleback Medical Centers in Orange County, CA Hodgkin lymphoma is most commonly diagnosed in early adulthood, specifically age 20 to 39, and in people age 65 and up, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. As with all forms of cancer, there is a range in severity and health outcomes with Hodgkin lymphoma. The five-year survival rate for all stages of this cancer is 80%, but it improves to 93% when its detected early, per ACS data. Thats why early detection is so important. Again, if you have the symptoms below, its likely youre dealing with some other health issue, but it doesnt hurt to stay informed. Statistically speaking, your symptoms are going to be due to a virus or even an autoimmune condition, says Jack Jacoub, M.D., oncologist and medical director of MemorialCare Cancer Institute at Orange Coast and Saddleback Medical Centers in Orange County, CA. But these symptoms need to be investigated. That's especially true given that having symptoms could be an indicator that the disease has progressed, he says. Oncologists suggest being on the lookout for these signs. Hodgkin Lymphoma symptoms Painless lymph node swelling Lets briefly back up: As mentioned above, Hodgkin lymphoma impacts the lymph system. This is part of your immune system, and its made up of tissues and organs that create, store, and carry white blood cells around your body, per the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Those include bone marrow, lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, your spleen, thymus, and tonsils. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Your lymph nodes are small structures that work like filters for foreign substances like cancer cells and infections, according to the ACS. Theyre located throughout your body and contain immune cells that can help to fight infection by attacking and destroying pathogens. Its common for your lymph nodes to swell when youre dealing with some kind of illness, Dr. Jacoub says. If you have an infection in your throat, lymph nodes in your neck will swell up, he says. But you can also get swollen lymph nodes with lymphoma, especially in the neck, armpits, or groin, according to Sameh Gaballa, M.D., an oncologist and associate member in the Moffitt Cancer Center Department of Malignant Hematology. Typically, these are painless. They feel rubbery, although sometimes they feel solid or firm, Dr. Jacoub says. If you find an unexplained lump or youre simply concerned, its best to reach out to your doctor, who can further investigate. Fever You can develop a fever from a range of different things, including a simple virus. But a fever from Hodgkin lymphoma will usually show up and stick around, although it may not last 24/7, Dr. Gaballa says. It could come in episodes and not go away, he says. It may be weeks and youre still getting these occasional fevers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fevers linked with Hodgkin lymphoma may even come on at the same time every day, Dr. Jacoub says. There can be a timing pattern where, at five or six in the evening, someone will have a fever. It will happen repeatedly, Dr. Jacoub says. An unexplained fever like this is a concern. Fatigue Fatigue can be a hard thing to pin down; everyone feels exhausted from time to time. But there are a few signs that fatigue could be due to Hodgkin lymphoma instead of something like a virus. Typically, if you have an infection, the fatigue would last for a few days and then go away, Dr. Gaballa says. For something like lymphoma, it will come in episodes and not go away. Further complicating things is that not everyone with Hodgkins lymphoma will experience fatigue. Some people dont describe any fatigue, and some people describe disabling fatigue, Dr. Jacoub says. Night sweats You can get night sweats from a range of things, including having a fever or hormonal fluctuations, like going through menopause. But doctors agree that night sweats linked to Hodgkin lymphoma are uniqueand intense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These are drenching night sweats, Dr. Gaballa says. Its as if youre taking a shower with your clothes on. Its not like a little sweat here and there. These may happen for a few days, go away, and then come back, gradually happening more often, he says. Initially, it may happen every couple of weeks, and then its more persistent, Dr. Gaballa says. Unexplained weight loss There are a few different reasons why you might experience unexplained weight loss with Hodgkin lymphoma. One is that you just may not feel as hungry as usual when you have the disease, Dr. Jacoub says. But your body may also be working hard to fight the condition and burning more energy than usual along the way, he says. Your body may not be able to keep up with the caloric intake, Dr. Jacoub says. Itchy skin Its possible to develop itchy skin with Hodgkin lymphoma. There are a lot of different theories on why that might be the case, Dr. Jacoub says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One theory is that the itchiness happens when the body releases cytokines, which are chemicals released by the immune system in response to lymphoma and other health issues. Those cytokines can irritate nerve endings in the skin, causing that itchy feeling. People with Hodgkin lymphoma may have itchiness in their hands, lower legs or feet, or throughout their entire body, according to Moffitt Cancer Center. Rash Rash isnt the most common symptom of Hodgkin lymphoma, but oncologists say it can happen. This is often a rash that will not go away, Dr. Gaballa says. But not everyone gets the same thing. These usually look like small patches of dry, red skin that show up on the torso, butt, or other areas of the body, he says. Rashes can even come and go around the same time of day, similar to fevers, Dr. Jacoub says. Just know this, per Dr. Gaballa: Its not common to only present with a rash. The bottom line Due to the rarity of Hodgkin Lymphoma, its unlikely that this is what your symptoms point to. But staying informed will help you and your care team narrow down any potential diagnoses. If you experience any of the above, or are simply feeling off, its always best to consult your physician. You Might Also Like A Dallas millionaire is seeking permission to drill into the massive Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer to explore how much water is available. His enterprise, if fully realized, could drain 15.9 billion gallons of water from the massive body each year more than triple the amount the city of Longview uses in a year. Kyle Bass, through his company Conservation Equity Management, sees opportunity in the expanse of the aquifer, which has gone largely unstudied, to quench the thirst of the growing state. He purchased more than 11,000 acres in East Texas and plans to install more than 40 high-capacity water wells in Anderson, Houston and Henderson counties. His neighbors have rung the alarm bells. Residents who rely on the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer which extends millions of acres from western Louisiana through East Texas to the Mexico border have had to dig deeper to access its groundwater. Locals worry this operation would dry out their personal wells, wells used for business purposes and the small springs that wildlife and ranches in the region rely upon. Experts, local leaders, and residents told lawmakers in an 11-hour hearing this month that the negative impacts could be innumerable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its dropping, business owner Mark Calicutt told The Texas Tribune of the aquifer. Its dropping faster and faster each year. And if he does what he says hes going to do, it will deplete the aquifer. Some experts say the water available in Texas aquifers is expected to decline over the next few decades. Many believe it has already declined significantly, largely to meet the demands of massive population growth in pockets of the state, but also because state regulations protect the interests of the most effective drillers. Groundwater in Texas is the property of whoever owns the land above it. The rule of capture says groundwater goes to whoever can pump the most water, the fastest. The Neches & Trinity Valleys Groundwater Conservation District are tasked with protecting their portions of the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer in Anderson, Cherokee and Henderson counties. However, their options are limited to fight against those who take advantage of the rule of capture. The proposal Right now, Bass says he is only seeking permission to study the aquifer. He aims to verify findings of three hydrogeologic engineering firms that have modeled the subsurface aquifers on the property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bass purchased 7,200 acres in Anderson and Houston counties and 4,100 in Henderson County through Conservation Equity Management, his Texas-based private equity firm. Redtown Ranch in Anderson and Houston counties and Pine Bliss in Henderson County are a part of more than 40,000 acres across multiple states the firm is using for ecological restoration, timber management and more, according to a fact sheet from the company. In May 2024, his firm applied for permission to drill exploratory wells. Bass said he wants to understand what the aquifer truly has to offer before he ever makes a large extraction. While many see aquifers as a flowing underground river, the space is actually filled with sand, gravel, silt, clay and lignite a type of brown coal that is saturated with water. It is confined, like a river, but it's more like an underground sponge, said Kelley Holcomb, the Angelina & Neches River Authority general manager. If you put water in there, it will eventually meander however it meanders. But it's not a free flowing river. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holcomb is against Basss proposal and has told lawmakers as much. Extracting groundwater is an efficient way to provide clean water to residents that many cities, like the city of Lufkin, have used for decades. They can pull the water from the well, treat it locally and send it down local lines to their residential and commercial customers. And across East Texas, the aquifer is well used, with thousands of wells drilled at varying depths, Texas Water Development Board data shows. Some sit at 50 feet, while others are as deep as 1,000 or 2,000 feet deep. Nobody really knows how much water the aquifer holds at any given time, Holcomb said. The Texas Water Development Board has some estimates but that information is based on what data they can get from groundwater conservation districts, which dont exist in every Texas county. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Should the data we gather from the exploratory test wells indicate less water is available than our hydrogeological and engineering studies project, we will re-evaluate our plans and modify or terminate the project accordingly, Bass told The Texas Tribune in an email. Any future permit applications will be based upon the real-world data and science generated by the exploratory test wells. Calicutt, who owns Calicutt Drilling Inc. a third generation water well drilling company in East Texas does not trust Bass will adjust his plans if the tests prove there is less water than the models indicate. He also doesnt trust the models Bass team has created. I can make a computer model say whatever you want a computer model to say, Calicutt said. But the real world data I see every day that Mr. Bass and his hydrogeologists do not see every day because they do not work on these water wells every day, is completely different. When probed for more information, Basss company said that if the tests support their models, the wells would ideally pump out an estimated 48,972 acre-feet per year, which translates to about 15.9 billion gallons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His company has not sought permission to extract this amount of water, or to export it. But residents fear that will be the natural consequence of even allowing this current proposal to move forward. Hundreds of East Texans, including landowners, business owners, community leaders and state officials have attended town hall meetings and listening sessions to oppose the plan. Our county depends heavily on groundwater for economic growth, for the health and safety and well being of our citizens, Anderson County Judge Carey McKinney told lawmakers on July 15. While East Texas doesnt compete with the rest of the state for agriculture, it is still a vital part of the region, said Anderson County Commissioner Greg Chapin, especially the pine industry. A pine tree could pull 100 to 150 gallons of water per day from the top of the groundwater reservoirs, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We can just take a simple three to four week drought and start suffering on production in our tree industry, our cattle industry, our crop industry the whole bit, Chapin said. It's not going to take much pull on this aquifer to stop that pressure from giving us that local groundwater that we live on. There isnt a whole lot known about what pulling massive amounts of water from the aquifer will do, Holcomb said. He is also worried about potential subsidence the sinking of the ground that can happen as a result of groundwater extraction that has happened in other regions where water was drained from the aquifer before it could recharge. This could make the area more flood prone on top of reducing the available groundwater. This project isn't meant to benefit East Texans, state Rep. Trent Ashby, R-Lufkin, said during the state hearing this month. It's not for our cities, it's not for our schools, our industries or our land owners, Ashby said. Let me be clear, this project sets a dangerous precedent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Basss plans are vague, missing technical analysis and dont rely upon credible modeling, Ashby said. Additionally, the groundwater supply in Houston County, which I represent, is in danger, Ashby said. Redtown Ranch has made their plans to install 15 high capacity wells in Houston County. Since no groundwater Conservation District exists in Houston County, Redtown Ranch can begin to capture egregious amounts of groundwater in the not too distant future without any regulation. The rule of capture Basss proposal was submitted to the Neches & Trinity Valleys Groundwater Conservation District in 2024. He has requested the matter be taken to the State Office of Administrative Hearings for review. The decision handed down by the judge who presides over the hearing does not have to be followed by the district, but they have to have a very good reason not to, said John Stover, the attorney for the district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bass has made it clear he intends to invoke the century-old rule of capture, calling it the bedrock principle of Texas property law. The rule of capture provides that, absent malice or willful waste, landowners have the right to take all the water they can capture under their land and do with it as they please, and they will not be held liable by their neighbors, Shauna Sledge, a Texas-based water attorney, told lawmakers. Groundwater conservation districts in Texas use what data they have to establish guidelines for groundwater production and try to establish fairness in the rule of capture. A 2012 Texas Supreme Court decision increased the power behind the rule of capture by allowing landowners to bring a regulatory takings claim, which is a constitutional requirement that government compensate landowners for property taken, against the conservation district should the district prevent the landowner from accessing groundwater. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many groundwater conservation districts, like in East Texas, dont have the capacity to fight a major takings claim, Sledge said. And in the counties Bass has applied to, the groundwater conservation district doesnt have production limits, McKinney said. Holcomb, who supports the rule of capture as far as it protects personal property rights, said lawmakers can use this case to create balance between private property rights and water conservation. We're going to have to make some modifications to balance the original intent of the right of capture, Holcomb said. When the rule of capture was developed you didn't have the populations that we have today. Texas is running out of water. And part of the problem is massive growth in areas that has resulted in overdrawing aquifers below their feet. Texans have looked below the surface for water for generations. The portion of the Carrizo-Wilcox in East Texas has gone primarily to East Texans and businesses in East Texas until now. Experts worry what the implications of withdrawing large quantities of water from it will be. It could recharge quickly, and it could not. In the Texas Panhandle, residents are feeling the long-term implications of the rule of capture in full swing. Unregulated and uncontrolled groundwater extraction in the Greater Houston region led to experiencing subsidence. It forced regional leaders to create a subsidence management district that has strictly controlled groundwater extraction and slowed the spread of subsidence. There is no way to be sure what the impact in East Texas will be without much more study, Holcomb said. Basss proposal isnt even the only one on the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer concerning residents who rely upon it. In Central Texas, Georgetown signed a contract to eventually pump 89 million gallons per day from the aquifer. Nobody knows how much water is down there, Holcomb said. That's why I keep going back to this. We wont know until they do it, and once they do it, it's too freaking late. The lineup for The Texas Tribune Festival continues to grow! Be there when all-star leaders, innovators and newsmakers take the stage in downtown Austin, Nov. 1315. The newest additions include comedian, actor and writer John Mulaney; Dallas mayor Eric Johnson; U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minnesota; New York Media Editor-at-Large Kara Swisher; and U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso. Get your tickets today! TribFest 2025 is presented by JPMorganChase. Correction, July 30, 2025 at 3:40 p.m. : A previous version of this article incorrectly compared the laws on groundwater to oil and gas. Mineral rights, which include oil, are generally severed from surface ownership rights. Edinburgh is to trial a new cycle hire scheme in August but an operator has yet to be put in place. A small number of dockless electric bikes are scheduled to be rolled out on the city's streets from the week of 18 August, the City of Edinburgh Council said. Two firms, Dott and Lime, are under consideration to run the scheme, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, but a final decision has yet to be made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the local authority's transport convener, Stephen Jenkinson, said he was "confident" the pilot would run to schedule during the festival season. It will mark the first time in four years that Edinburgh will have a public bike hire service. Both Dott and Lime run similar cycle hire programmes in cities across the UK and Europe. Jenkinson said he expected the operator to be chosen next week. He said every effort would be made to "minimise disruption" when the trial begins during the city's annual festivals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jenkinson added: "Our initial target was to launch the trial cycle hire scheme during the month of August, and I remain confident that we'll deliver this. "The tender process is still under way, and a contract has not yet been awarded. "We're actively working to finalise arrangements and remain committed to making the scheme operational as soon as possible." He said the council was determined that any cycle hire scheme would be "implemented diligently". 'Vandalism and theft' A previous scheme, operated by Serco and sponsored by food delivery service Just Eat, ran for three years between 2018 and 2021 before being ended when the contractor pulled out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bikes, which had to be unlocked from specialised docking stations placed at points around the city, were beset by issues with vandalism and often had to be retrieved from bodies of water, including the Water of Leith. However, the new scheme will operate the "dockless" model, with the council collecting inappropriately parked bikes and charging the future operator a 235 fee for their return. It mirrors the model used in the City of London, where Lime already has a presence. Scottish Greens councillor Chas Booth said: "While it's very welcome news that a new cycle hire scheme has taken a step closer, it's essential that any scheme meets the needs of all the city, including those on low incomes and living outside the city centre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's also essential the operator addresses the shortcomings of the previous scheme, particularly around vandalism and theft, if it's to become a permanent part of the city's sustainable transport offering." Reporting by local democracy journalist Joe Sullivan. Edward Zakrzewski II, 60, has spent nearly half of his life on Death Row, where next Thursday he is to be the ninth person executed in 2025, a modern one-year Florida record. Only Gov. Ron DeSantis, who signed the death warrant, knows why he didnt select one of the 120 other inmates who have been there longer, or why he doesnt answer the many religious leaders who regularly plead with him to shut down what is suddenly the nations most active death factory. The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops asked DeSantis, a Catholic, for a pause and a dialogue toward a better way to achieve the ends of justice. We do have the ability to protect society without killing human beings, the bishops said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has not replied. At this pace of two executions a month, DeSantis would finish his two terms having carried out 48, the most by any Florida governor since records were kept. If hes doing it to run for president again, which he hasnt bothered to deny, it would be revolting. No sympathy for a killer This is not to suggest sympathy for Zakrzewski. He killed his entire family. His crimes were especially horrible. He pleaded guilty to slaughtering his wife Sylvia and their two children in the Panhandle town of Mary Esther in 1994. Court records show that he meant to stop her from divorcing him and taking their two young children to her native Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Air Force sergeant from Kalamazoo, Mich., Zakrzewski murdered his wife with a crowbar and a machete that he bought that day and then hacked Edward, 7, and Anna, 5, to death, one after the other, after calling them to the bathroom to brush their teeth. But another macabre aspect to this case is the states doing. Zakrzewski will be at least the 46th inmate Florida has put to death whose jury did not vote unanimously for the death penalty. That practice is allowed in only one other state Alabama. He would be the first since 1996 for whom so few jurors seven of twelve favored execution. After a jury in Okaloosa County voted 7-5 for two of the deaths and deadlocked 6-6 for Annas, the judge decreed death for all three. Even three decades ago, in one of the most conservative counties in Florida, a significant number of jurors did not favor his execution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Strikingly, Florida law now excludes the death penalty unless at least eight jurors recommend it. Alabama requires at least 10 of 12. Non-unanimous juries The Florida Supreme Court, which rejected Zakrzewskis final appeal Tuesday, contorts itself to avoid giving prisoners a retroactive break. Divided recommendations were legal in 1996 when he was sentenced. Judges could impose death sentences even when jurors did not vote for them. In 2016, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Floridas law was unconstitutional for not requiring a unanimous jury vote to find any of the specified aggravating circumstances that justify a death sentence rather than life in prison without parole. But justices left it to Floridas Supreme Court to decide whether to make that retroactive to anyone but the prisoner who was appealing, Timothy Lee Hurst, and if so, how far back. It did not require a unanimous vote on the sentence itself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Florida court contrived a weird and arbitrary compromise, granting new sentencing hearings only to death row prisoners whose sentences were considered final after 2002, when the U.S. court issued a decision that was a precursor to Hursts. More than 100 qualified, but more did not. Zakrzewskis sentence became final in 1999, when the U.S. Supreme Court refused to review it. Eight of 12 in Florida In 2017, the Florida Supreme Court said any new death sentence would require a unanimous recommendation, but it reversed itself after DeSantis replaced three retiring justices. In 2023, the Legislature and DeSantis took the courts hint and provided for as few as eight of 12 jurors to recommend death, the nations lowest death penalty jury threshold. That followed the 9-3 split that spared the confessed killer of 17 students and staff at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The strongest argument in Zakrzewskis final appeal was the contrast between his jurys votes and present law, but the court dismissed it as untimely, procedurally barred and meritless. Florida kills indiscriminately, unable to distinguish between someone like Zakrzewski and Michael Bell, the last person executed, who received no consideration despite having been brutalized as a teen at Floridas notorious Dozier School for Boys. We hold to our view that the death penalty ought to be repealed because it is arbitrary in its application, far costlier to taxpayers than life without parole, and can put innocent people to death with no way to atone for such a ghastly miscarriage of justice. Thirty people on death row in Florida have been exonerated, far more than any other state. There can be no confidence that innocent people have not been executed. Retired Justice Gerald Kogan, who died in 2021, said he believed there had been three. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not even its advocates still claim that its a deterrent. Florida had already put 33 people to death when Zakrzewski killed his family. The Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board includes Executive Editor Roger Simmons, Opinion Editor Krys Fluker and Viewpoints Editor Jay Reddick. The Sun Sentinel Editorial Board consists of Executive Editor Gretchen Day-Bryant, Editorial Page Editor Steve Bousquet, Deputy Editorial Page Editor Dan Sweeney and editorial writers Pat Beall and Martin Dyckman. Send letters to insight@orlandosentinel.com. Memo to Springfield: Chicago is broke. Gov. JB Pritzker has a bill on his desk that would sweeten pension benefits for Chicagos police and firefighters hired in 2011 or later, to the tune of $60 million more out of the city budget in 2027 alone and more than $11 billion over the next three decades, according to the citys own projections. The measure passed unanimously in both chambers at the end of the spring session, allowing for next to no debate and, astoundingly, was supported by every Chicago House member and senator. At the time of the bills passage, we wrote that the entire Chicago delegation had effectively had voted to increase property taxes on their constituents. Property taxes, of course, are the main means municipalities have of financing their pension obligations to their workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interestingly, the governor acknowledged the conundrum last week. Asked about the bill, he said, One thing to consider, of course, is the finances of the city of Chicago. How will they pay for it? The other important consideration, he said, was ensuring Chicagos first responders are well taken care of. Were glad to see Pritzker explicitly state why hes mulling whether to veto despite the strange prospect of rejecting legislation that passed without a single dissenting vote. By asking rhetorically if Chicago can pay for it, the governor has answered his own question. Of course Chicago cant pay for it. The police and fire pension funds have a mere 25% of the assets needed to meet their current and future obligations as it stands. Since we wrote about this measure in June, the city has estimated what it would do for its woefully underfunded first-responder funds. That percentage would drop to an almost unfathomably low 18%. To those who say its nonsensical to veto a bill with such overwhelming support, remember that GOP lawmakers mainly went along because of the Chicago delegations unanimous backing and the fact that only Chicagoans taxes would be affected. All the Chicago Democrats who voted yes could justify reversing their positions by saying (truthfully) they didnt have the citys projections on just how much these changes would cost taxpayers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chicago taxpayers already are chewing their nails wondering how the city will plug a 2026 budget deficit exceeding $1 billion. The following year looks even worse. Pritzker already tossed an $80 million hot potato in Chicagos lap with his 2023 initiative to phase out the states 1% tax on groceries, the proceeds of which had been distributed to municipalities. More than 200 municipalities have approved their own 1% grocery taxes, as the state allows them to do. Mayor Brandon Johnson wants the City Council to do the same for Chicago, which must happen by a state-set deadline of Oct. 1. There are no guarantees, given Johnsons fraught relationship with the council and Chicagoans understandable resistance to tax hikes of any sort, that aldermen will do as he wishes. Meanwhile, this pension time bomb would cost the city nearly as much as repeal of the grocery tax and in the future will cost far more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking of the mayor, while he has spoken tepidly against this bill, he ought to be forcefully urging Pritzker to veto it and Chicago lawmakers to vote to sustain that veto, despite their earlier support of the measure. The city essentially has been missing in action on this issue, and Johnson apparently is struggling to balance his political brand as an ardent union backer with his duty to Chicago taxpayers. This is no time for such timidity. At this stage, its worth laying out the origins of this bill. In 2010, in a bid to reform Illinois public-sector pensions, the state created a second tier of beneficiaries hired in 2011 and thereafter so-called Tier 2 workers whose retirement payouts were to be substantially less than the overly generous benefits of existing employees and retirees that had gotten Illinois so deeply in pension debt. Six years ago, Pritzker signed into law sweetened pension benefits for Tier 2 cops and firefighters in Illinois outside of Chicago as part of a consolidation of downstate police and fire pension funds. Ever since, Chicago police and fire unions have argued their Tier 2 workers ought to get the same treatment. In addition, proponents cite concerns that the benefits for Tier 2 workers dont rise to the level of Social Security benefits, which would violate federal law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This page has been consistent on the issue of Tier 2 pension benefits and Social Security. State policymakers should do no more than ensure they are compliant with the law and rebuff union efforts to use the Social Security argument in effect to do away with Tier 2 and pension reform altogether. As much as we appreciate and rely on Chicagos first responders, everyone who went to work for the Police or Fire departments after 2010 knew or should have known what their retirement benefits were. In a perfect world, their pensions would be equivalent to those earned by their counterparts outside the city. We dont live in that world. Far from it. Mayor Johnson, you should advocate for your citys beleaguered taxpayers and call on Gov. Pritzker and Chicagos Springfield delegation to do the right thing. And, Governor, adding to Chicagos fiscal crisis hurts the whole state. Whether the mayor asks or not, veto the bill. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. Education leaders from across Michigan gathered Tuesday morning for a roundtable hosted by the Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity, calling on the Michigan Legislature to immediately finalize a FY 2025-2026 education budget. July 29, 2025 | Photo by Ben Solis/Michigan Advance Michigans education leaders care little about which party or which chamber of the Legislature is to blame for the states stalled budget negotiations they just want it finalized so schools can make sound financial decisions in the coming year. That was the consensus from six school association heads and administrators in a roundtable news conference hosted Tuesday by the Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group touched on the real-time impact to Michigan schools while they wait for a budget deal between the states House, Senate and governors office. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX That deal is a long way out, however, due to a breakdown in negotiations between the three parties, particularly the Republican-controlled House and the Democratic-led Senate. Lawmakers blew past the states July 1 deadline for a budget deal, and at present the House has only passed an education spending plan but not a full budget funding the whole of Michigan government. Conversely, the Senate has passed a full budget but has not yet delivered a road funding plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, House Speaker Matt Hall (R-Richland Township) and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer are both currently collaborating on a road funding plan. Either way, Peter Spadafore, executive director of the Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity, said the current morass was a manufactured crisis. We are now four weeks past the statutory deadline to deliver a budget to Governor Whitmer, and every day that ticks by only makes the situation worse, Spadafore said. The Legislature has the resources and the authority to get this done, but theyve chosen not to. Its time to pass a budget that is sustainable, significant, and puts the needs of our most vulnerable students first. Peter Spadafore, executive director of the Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity, commenting on the stalled 2025-26 fiscal year budget process at a roundtable event with Michigan education leaders. July 29, 2025 | Photo by Ben Solis/Michigan Advance Tina Kerr, the executive director for the Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, said her associations 600-plus members are already confronting the possibility of layoffs and reductions in school services due to the conflict between the House and Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Public schools began their fiscal year on July 1. They were forced to build budgets without knowing what theyd receive from the state, Kerr said. Thats unacceptable and its illegal. Were urging the Legislature and the governor to do their job and finalize a responsible school aid budget immediately. Kerr added that the state is not in a recession, nor is it lacking resources, and that the budget delay has nothing to do with school funding. Its being held up by unrelated issues at the expense of our kids, Kerr said. Public school board officials are required by law to pass balanced budgets by June 30, whether the state has given them any guidance or not, said Kimberly May, board president of Wayne-Westland Community Schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We do our jobs. Our lawmakers should be held to the same standard, May said. By missing their deadline, theyve violated the law and created confusion that directly impacts how we fund classrooms, programs, and staffing. This isnt just a breakdown in process, this has real consequences for kids. May said the states continued delay is only compounded by further uncertainty at the federal level given the amount of funding that has been withheld or redirected by the U.S. Department of Education under Republican President Donald Trump. These problems werent created by school districts, theyre the result of inaction in Lansing and Washington, May said. Others also called the stalemate a manufactured political crisis, including Piper Bognar, superintendent of Van Dyke Public Schools. She said the current situation is taking a toll on under-resourced districts like hers, which is planning to offer fewer resources to students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our budgets were legally approved by June 30, based on current per-pupil funding, but that doesnt cover the many categorical grants, like 31AA, that support student mental health and school safety, Bognar said. Whether or not we can afford School Resource Officers depends on that funding thats being withheld. Bognar said the Legislature and particularly the House in its rhetoric focusing on roads was putting concrete over our kids and prioritizing roads over education. But public education was never meant to be a bargaining chip, its supposed to be the great equalizer, Bognar said. I serve students who are first-generation college hopefuls, students like me. They succeed because of what we invest in them. And when we delay or underfund schools, we deny them the tools to succeed. Wendy Zdeb, executive director of the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals, said that school leaders are being asked to make academic, staffing and program decisions without knowing what kind of funding theyll receive in the next school year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve built schedules, hired staff, planned course offerings and interventions, Zdeb said. Now were asking: Will we have to cancel classes? Increase class sizes? Cut mental health supports, AP courses, or CTE programs? Without a budget that both hits the mark for schools and is delivered on time, those choices could be heartbreaking, and could result in a loss of opportunity for Michigan students trying to get ahead in their studies, said JoLynn Clark, principal of Frankenmuth High School. The state must pass a budget that increases the per-pupil foundation and includes weighted funding for high-need students, Clark added. The group was asked about Halls focus on roads and removing the sales tax on fuel to pay for them, which would in turn alter the sales tax structure for the states school aid fund. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spadafore said that discussion has been going on for years and before Hall stepped into the speakers office. He said it was a cute turn of phrase to say that every penny at the pump should go to the roads, but thats not how Michigans sales tax works. Weve had that discussion, and it usually fizzled off quite quickly, Spadafore said. The difference with the last plan was that it did earmark replacement revenue to accommodate that switch, so we didnt see that as a choice at the time. Now, the discussion includes more and more dollars coming out of the school aid fund to pay for higher education. To remove the sales tax on fuel to pay for roads, or to talk about paying for other non-K-12 related functions, Spadafore said policymakers in Lansing have set up a false choice between roads and students. Thats why the group is attempting to draw a line in the sand, demanding that the Legislature back away from that plan and to just get the job done. Get our budget done right, and then figure out whats left to cover up the other resources that are necessary, Spadafore said. MB's Something Sweet, a new ice cream shop in Colorado Springs, is focused on building a strong community hub. The shop, founded by Scott and Katie Brown and Beth and Jeff McKiernan, specializes in rolled ice cream made with fresh cream and other ingredients. The owners hope to create a place where families can come together and have a unique experience. The shop had a soft opening on July 3, and while there are no official plans for a grand opening celebration, the owners are working to get one scheduled. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) The City of El Pasos water parks have been designated as certified autism centers by a leading national authority, Destination El Paso said in a news release on Tuesday, July 29. The water parks Camp Cohen, Chapoteo, Lost Kingdom and Oasis received the certification from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The CAC certification recognizes that at least 80% of each parks staff that deals with guests have completed training and have the knowledge and skills to better understand and communicate with individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities, the news release said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the certification, each water park will undergo onsite reviews by IBCCES to create sensory guides and provide additional resources and recommendations to enhance accessibility. As part of the process of earning the CAC certification, water park staff members received training on: Autism overview Basic safety Sensory impacts Accessibility needs Communication Parent/caregiver perspective From the moment we opened El Paso Water Parks, our goal was to create spaces that every family could enjoy together, said Daniel Arizpe, director of Water Park Operations. Becoming certified autism centers reinforces our commitment to making our parks welcoming, safe and fun for all guests, regardless of ability, Arizpe added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having trained staff is crucial to making sure families with autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals feel welcome and included when visiting attractions like the El Paso Water Parks, says Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. IBCCES is proud to partner with Camp Cohen, Chapoteo, Lost Kingdom and Oasis Water Parks to award them with certified autism center designations. In addition to the CAC designation, Lost Kingdom Water Park launched a new initiative this season called Sensory Splash Hours. This initiative granted a time slot, from 10 a.m. to 12 pm. select days, to accommodate guests with varying sensory needs. During Sensory Splash Hours: All music and background noise were turned off Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The loud splash bucket bell remained silent Attendance was limited to preserve a more relaxed setting For more than two decades, IBCCES has been a leader in providing autism, sensory and neurodiversity training and certification for professionals worldwide, including those in health care, education, public safety, travel, and corporate sectors, the news release said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) Elms College in Chicopee has been ranked among the top colleges nationwide for its exceptional nursing program, strong Catholic identity, and value. Student loan interest charges to resume August 1st Niche.com ranked Elms College in 21st place among the 25 Best Colleges in Massachusetts. MIT and Harvard rank 1st and 2nd, respectively. Elms College is also ranked among the top 10 Colleges in Massachusetts in three categories: 4th Best Nursing School, 3rd Best Catholic College, and 8th best value. Elms College leads all other western Massachusetts institutions in those three categories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The College is shown as the 5th Best College in western Massachusetts, behind Williams, Amherst, Smith, and Mount Holyoke. This exemplifies how the institution lives up to its mission, which is rooted in the values of the Sisters of St. Joseph. Elms College helps to foster a supportive and inclusive community where students are encouraged to grow intellectually, spiritually, and personally. Elms College also ranks 49th of the 159 U.S. Catholic colleges. Elms Colleges ranking 4th for Best College for Nursing in Massachusetts highlights Elms Colleges reputation for producing highly skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals. Their School of Nursing has state-of-the-art simulation labs and a curriculum that is designed to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry. Elms nursing graduates consistently pass the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX), the standardized test thats required for employment as a licensed nurse. Elms College president, Dr. Harry Dumay said, It is wonderful to see that Elms College is recognized for our outstanding programs and opportunities for our students. The faculty and staff of Elms College have historically remained unified and focused on our mission to educate a diverse group of students ready to effect positive change in the world. We are delighted to see that our secret is out. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Jul. 29The wrongful death civil trial against a Winchester man who shot to death his former son-in-law began Monday at Nez Perce County's Second Judicial Courthouse in Lewiston. In Judge Mark Monson's courtroom, attorney Kevin Hickey of Hickey & Hull Law Partners of Fort Smith, Ark., opened his argument by noting that 71-year-old James Brashear usually wears an orange jumpsuit and "he is now, and will be forever, a homicidal convicted felon." Family members of the late John Mast, 40, are suing James Brashear and Mast's ex-wife, Rebecca Brashear-Mast, for unspecified damages. On Feb. 5, 2021, James Brashear shot and killed Mast in the Lewiston Rosauers parking lot minutes before Brashear-Mast arrived to hand over the couple's two children for an overnight stay with their father. In November 2023, Brashear was sentenced to 15 years in prison for voluntary manslaughter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A jury of five men and seven women heard opening statements and several hours of testimony from Mast's siblings Betty Troyer and Steven Mast, who witnessed the killing. "This case is about three things: desperation, deception and death," Hickey said. Plaintiffs claim Brashear-Mast set up her ex-husband, with whom she'd fought a bitter child custody battle after she spirited away the children from Williston, N.D., to Winchester. Further, they claim Brashear-Mast had concocted accusations of child molestation against Mast. Brashear-Mast, without an attorney, is leading the father-daughter defense, with James Brashear also addressing the judge and jury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In her opening statement, Brashear-Mast told the jury there is no proof of her conspiring with her father to kill her ex-husband. She "never inflicted any intentional distress" on the plaintiffs. And, she too was "affected by James Brashear's sole decision to shoot John Mast." Daily headlines, straight to your inboxRead it online first and stay up-to-date, delivered daily at 7 AM Brashear, in a blue blazer, wearing court-issued headphones for hearing assistance and leaning on a cane, addressed the jury as well. "My daughter had completely, wholly nothing to do with what I did to John Mast," Brashear said. The blame for the killing was his alone, he said. "It's me. I did it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brashear said he saw pain in the Mast family's faces and was sorry for it. But he asked the jury to consider what it was like to be convinced "in your heart, mind, soul and spirit" that your "begging children" were in imminent danger of being molested. He recalled looking into a mirror and thinking, "If I don't do something, I'll never be able to look here again." Troyer's testimony on Monday recalled an idyllic childhood growing up close to her brother, as one of 11 children from a Pennsylvanian Amish family. Now, many family members live near Sweet, Idaho. She told the jury Mast was a "gentle" father who wouldn't harm his children, and of the pain and shock of seeing her brother shot three times a few feet away. She said she held her cellphone to his ear so his parents could say goodbye as he bled to death on the blacktop. He couldn't speak, but he squeezed her hand so she knew he heard them. Today, plaintiffs will call witnesses from law enforcement who are expected to testify that John Mast was innocent of child molestation accusations. The trial is expected to conclude Wednesday. Ferguson can be reached at dferguson@lmtribune.com. MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) Six more employees at an Alabama jail have been indicted in connection with the death of a mentally ill man who died of hypothermia after being held for two weeks in a concrete cell, while several of them have also been accused in the assaults of other inmates. The indictment unsealed Monday is the latest round of charges related to the 2023 death of Tony Mitchell after his incarceration at the Walker County Jail. A total of 20 people have been indicted or plead guilty. The latest indictment charges the six employees, including the jail captain and supervisor, with conspiracy, alleging they sought to unlawfully punish detainees in the jail for the detainees perceived misbehavior." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Five of the six are charged with depriving Mitchell of his rights, including depriving him of humane conditions, shelter, sanitation and medical care. The offense resulted in bodily injury to, and the death of, Individual #1, prosecutors wrote in the indictment, which referred to Mitchell only as Individual #1. The indictment also details a string of other assaults at the jail, and three of the officers have been charged with deprivation of rights for alleged assaults of other inmates. One of the employees is accused of slamming a handcuffed persons head into a cell floor. He and another employee are accused of beating an inmate who was recaptured after an escape. Another is accused of punching a restrained inmate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two of the employees are charged with obstruction of justice. Prosecutors said they offered an inmate food from outside the jail to act as an enforcer in his dorm and assault an 18-year-old inmate. Prosecutors said they later submitted a letter to the court that falsely claimed the enforcer had been a model inmate who showed zero signs of aggression. Defense attorneys listed in court records did not immediately return emails seeking comment sent Monday afternoon. Mitchells death on Jan. 26, 2023, put a spotlight on conditions and allegations of abuse at the jail in Jasper, Alabama. Mitchell, 33, died after being brought from the jail to a hospital emergency room with a body temperature of 72 degrees (22 degrees Celsius). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He had been taken into custody two weeks earlier on Jan. 12 after a relative asked authorities to do a welfare check on him because he appeared to be having a mental breakdown. The Walker County sheriffs office said that Mitchell was arrested after firing a shot at deputies and running into the woods. Prosecutors wrote in the indictment that for much of his two-week detention, Mitchell was held in a concrete cell that serves as the jails drunk tank with no blanket, mattress, or clothing, and was routinely left naked on the bare concrete floor. He was routinely covered in feces and was not provided with regular opportunities to shower or use a toilet, prosecutors wrote. The announcement of a massive, growing solar plant in Finland near the Arctic Circle will not only bring clean, reliable energy to the area on a huge scale but will also prove the viability of clean energy integration. According to Renewable Energy Magazine, the solar company Sungrow is supplying 80 units of its solar string inverters to the 95-hectare site, which will host 120,000 panels. The solar string inverters help connect a "string" of solar panels to one inverter, as the U.S. Department of Energy explains. "The project will be connected to already existing wind turbines, forming a hybrid power plant that supports Finland's carbon neutrality goals," the outlet reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Solar power is an ever-growing industry, as people around the world seek reliable energy without the pollution of dirty fuels, thus reducing the environmental impact of keeping homes, manufacturing goods, or even charging electric vehicles. "As solar energy expands into new frontiers, we are proud to support our partners with technology that performs reliably no matter the conditions," Henry Sarkisilta, key account manager at Sungrow Finland, told Renewable Energy Magazine. Common myths about solar panels include their unreliability in harsh or cloudy weather such as what you would find in the Arctic Circle. While solar does require sunlight, during the daytime, it sends low-cost electricity back to the grid, and it works well with other energy sources, including backup batteries and wind power, which the Finland plant will use. "This project is a great example of how innovation can drive the energy transition, even in remote parts of Europe," Sarkisilta added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The environmental benefits of installing solar panels are just the start of their appeal. With this form of clean energy, you can also bring your monthly energy bill down to or near $0. If you are interested in solar but not sure where to start, EnergySage provides a free service that makes it easy to compare quotes from vetted local installers and save up to $10,000 on a solar installation. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Oklo Inc. has been selected to deliver carbon-free power to Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska through its advanced fission technology, according to Business Wire. At the heart of this project is the Aurora powerhouse, Oklo's first fast reactor technology. Unlike traditional reactors, fast reactors can efficiently utilize nuclear fuel and even recycle nuclear waste into usable energy. This represents substantial progress in sustainability and energy efficiency. Fission energy is generated when uranium or plutonium atoms are split. This process produces large amounts of heat, which can be converted into electricity. Unlike fossil fuels, fission does not emit carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases during operation, making it a valuable energy source for combating rising global temperatures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are honored to support national defense resilience objectives while demonstrating the value of U.S.-pioneered fast reactor technology," Oklo co-founder and CEO Jacob DeWitte said in a statement. The implications of this stretch far beyond the Air Force base. By providing stable, long-term pricing under a power purchase agreement, Oklo's reactors could help cities and individuals avoid spending a fortune on traditional energy sources. Small, self-sustainable reactors offer a decentralized energy solution that can keep hospitals, data centers, and neighborhoods powered during outages. Oklo is designing, constructing, owning, and operating the power plant. If this project were to be executed in other areas, it would enable communities to adopt clean power without incurring expenses for infrastructure. That said, nuclear does not come without downsides. Many experts point to the high cost and longer construction times of getting nuclear online compared to solar and wind, and the Union of Concerned Scientists has regularly aired reservations about relying on lightly tested small modular reactor generation in particular. In a post last year called "Five Things the 'Nuclear Bros' Don't Want You to Know," UCS Director of Nuclear Power Safety Edwin Lyman wrote of SMRs that "it is essential to have a realistic understanding of their costs and risks," mentioning Oklo directly at times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Setting aside the difference in safety with these smaller reactors, there is nuclear waste created either way, which must be contained and stored carefully, and any water that comes into contact may contain radioactive isotopes such as tritium. But as North Carolina State University associate professor Robert B. Hayes has said, scientific data suggests that nuclear is overall much safer for human health and responsible for fewer deaths than fossil fuel sources such as coal. And while there is some greenhouse gas pollution associated with the nuclear industry as a whole, especially for mining, it does not contribute nearly as much to atmospheric pollution as dirty energy sources, making transitions toward nuclear still stand as cleaner environmental choices on the whole. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Germany continues to unveil more wind projects, even as the movement faces backlash from the far right. Renewable Energy Magazine reported on a new contract for 64 wind turbines by wind farm developer Umweltgerechte Kraftanlagen GmbH & Co. KG (UKA). Nordex Group will supply the turbines, which deliver a total capacity of 435.2 MW. Fifty-two of the turbines will be N175/6.X with a hub height of 179 meters (~587 feet) and will be deployed across 15 wind farm sites in Germany. The job is expected to be completed in either 2026 or 2027, contingent upon the specifics of each project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nordex and UKA have an existing partnership, which UKA CEO Gernot Gauglitz noted totals 226 turbine orders over the last 18 months. "Together, they represent a total power generation capacity of over 1.5 GW," Gauglitz said in a press release. "It is an extraordinary achievement that fills me with pride." Wind energy in Germany has faced opposition, most notably from the far-right AfD party. One of its top politicians, Alice Weidel, even called for removing all turbines and dubbed them "windmills of shame" in early 2025, as Energy Watch detailed. Still, the country's move to green energy is making significant progress, with wind energy accounting for almost 40% of Germany's electricity last summer. Clean energy accounted for nearly 60% of the country's electricity in the summer of 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Part of that success is undoubtedly due to subsidies for the industry. What's more, nearly all of these subsidies in Germany have been repaid, as clean energy has become increasingly competitive. The country's wind power lobby has cautioned that Germany is falling short of benchmarks to reach its goal of generating 80% of electricity from clean energy by 2030, according to Reuters. Still, the trajectory is positive as Germany looks to reduce reliance on dirty energy that is warming the planet and polluting the air. Additionally, becoming energy-independent of countries like Russia is a positive for Germany's national security. It's clear that Nordex and UKA will be a big part of Germany's energy evolution. "Now that German policymakers have created the framework, I am delighted that we can move the energy transition forward," Gauglitz declared. "The close partnership between UKA and Nordex over many years is now bearing fruit." Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. ENGLEWOOD, Ohio (WDTN) Englewood dispatchers will be answering 911 calls from a different location for the next two weeks. The Englewood Dispatch Center will be temporarily relocated starting July 30 at 7 a.m. Dispatchers and operational staff will work out of the Montgomery County Regional Dispatch Center while a renovation project is completed. Warren Co. EMA: Human error to blame for secure doors alert mishap Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During this time, 911 calls will continue uninterrupted. For residents visiting the police department lobby for records or administration needs, please call 937-836-2678 for assistance. Dispatchers are expected to return to the Englewood location on W. National Road on Friday, Aug. 15. The Englewood Dispatch Center dispatches to the communities of Englewood, Brookville, Farmersville, Jackson Township, New Lebanon and Union. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. Enterprise, Ala. Enterprise State Community Colleges Student Support Services (SSS) program has been awarded a $2.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education, securing funding to continue providing academic and personal support to students for the next five years. The program, which has served ESCC students since 1978, operates on both the Enterprise and Ozark campuses, playing a key role in helping students achieve their educational goals. SSS offers tutoring, counseling, workshops, and cultural enrichment activities to support student development and retention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The program currently serves a minimum of 275 students each semester. SSS is designed to offer academic support and guidance to students from underrepresented backgrounds. While participation is based on eligibility, the program encourages students to explore their options and reach out for more information. Michael Harrison, Director of Student Support Services, stated that the renewed funding ensures SSS can continue to make a meaningful impact. Year after year, we have the joy of watching students stretch their academic abilities and educational dreams as they discover the rewards of persistence and hard work combined with a dose of encouragement from the SSS staff, Harrison said. This renewed funding will allow our program to continue to serve students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of those students is sophomore Kaliyah Johnson, who has been part of the SSS program since her freshman year. She says the support shes received has been transformative, both academically and personally. Student Support Services has helped me grow into a better student by providing tutors who are readily available in multiple subjects, Johnson said. The workshops they offer have also helped me become more financially stable. SSS has truly made me feel like part of a family that is dedicated to seeing their students succeednot just academically, but in every part of our lives. Johnson is pursuing an associates degree in business and plans to work in healthcare management. In addition to her academic work, she is actively involved on campus, serving as the 2025-26 Student Government Association (SGA) President and participating in Circle K. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also recently represented ESCC at the Alabama Deans of Student Affairs Student Leadership Institute in Birmingham. ESCC President Danny Long praised the long-standing success of the SSS program and its continued benefit to the campus community. The SSS program at ESCC has a long history of positively affecting students lives by giving them the tools they need to be successful while they are here and long after they leave, whether they are continuing their education or starting their career, Long said. Were proud to have this program at the College, and we look forward to seeing the continued impact this program makes on our students and community in the future. Students interested in learning more about Student Support Services can visit the SSS office in the Student Center, call 334-347-2623 ext. 2265, or go to escc.edu/sss. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will propose Tuesday to repeal its landmark 2009 finding that greenhouse gases pose a threat to the public. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced the timing of the proposed repeal during an appearance on the conservative Ruthless podcast Tuesday morning. He had previously said last week that he would axe the finding. Later today, were going to be making a big announcement in Indiana, he said Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Something that happened back in the Obama administration in 2009 was that they put forward this regulation called the endangerment finding, Zeldin said. Repealing it will be the largest deregulatory action in the history of America, he added. The finding is not just symbolic: It also represents a legal justification for climate regulations, especially rules governing the auto industry that have significant environmental and economic ramifications. In 2007, the Supreme Court case Massachusetts v. EPA authorized the agency to regulate climate change if it makes a determination that global warming poses harm to the American people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first Trump administration did not go as far as repealing the endangerment finding, even if it did weaken climate change regulations. The proposal to repeal the finding comes in spite of decades of evidence that climate change drives an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Colorado Springs Airport saw a slight increase in passenger traffic compared to the same time last year, a welcome shift after a slower-than-expected start to 2025. The Environmental Protection Agency has decided to revoke a key scientific finding it published 16 years ago that six greenhouse gases are a threat to public health and must be regulated under the Clean Air Act. Known as the "endangerment finding," it is the 2009 scientific basis for which the EPA has regulated greenhouse gas emissions from new motor vehicles, as well as other sources of climate pollution, but Administrator Lee Zeldin announced on a conservative podcast Tuesday that the agency is revoking the finding, calling it, "the largest deregulatory action in the history of America." Since it was signed by then-Administrator Lisa Jackson in 2009, the finding has been used by the EPA to regulate sources of climate change-causing pollution from cars, power plants and other sources of transportation like planes, as well as oil and gas operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Tuesday, the EPA issued a press release saying if the draft to revoke the finding is finalized, it would "repeal all resulting greenhouse gas emissions regulations for motor vehicles and engines, thereby reinstating consumer choice and giving Americans the ability to purchase a safe and affordable car for their family while decreasing the cost of living on all products that trucks deliver." During his appearance on the "Ruthless Podcast," Zeldin criticized the endangerment finding, saying it put too many regulatory restrictions on transportation and stationary sources of greenhouse gas pollution. "There are people, who in the name of climate change, are willing to bankrupt the country," he said. Zeldin also said regulating climate pollution costs Americans too much money. If the proposed finding is finalized, it "is expected to save Americans $54 billion in costs annually through the repeal of all greenhouse gas standards," according to the EPA press release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the EPA's own regulatory impact report says limiting emissions for cars and trucks is expected to generate more than $2.1 trillion in net benefits over the next 30 years, including $820 billion in fuel savings and $1.8 trillion in public health and climate benefits. Repealing the finding comes at a time when climate change impacts appear to be reaching new heights as 2024 was the hottest year on record, and natural disasters are growing more intense, destructive and deadly. Since 2010, there have been 246 billion-dollar disasters striking every U.S. state, causing more than $1.7 trillion in damages, and killing more than 7,700 people, according to archived data from NOAA. "For the EPA to repeal the 2009 finding borders on criminal negligence," said Robert Howarth, a professor of ecology and environmental biology at Cornell University, in a statement. "The science was clear in 2009 and has become much stronger and clearer since: climate disruption is a large and growing problem; it is caused primarily from our use of fossil fuels and the resultant emissions of carbon dioxide and methane; and it is a deadly problem." Legality of the endangerment finding Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2007, the Supreme Court ruled in Massachusetts v. EPA that greenhouse gases are a form of air pollution that can be regulated under the Clean Air Act, but it tasked the EPA with making a scientific finding about whether the gases harm public health. Two years later, the EPA published the endangerment finding, relying on extensive scientific evidence and public input to definitively state that greenhouse gases, which cause climate change, threaten health and the welfare of current and future generations. "I think it's the most impactful thing I worked on in my career," said a former EPA employee who was a key author on the 2009 endangerment finding and requested anonymity because of current contractual obligations with the federal government. "This body of scientific evidence met the endangerment test of the Clean Air Act," they told CBS News. "It has stood the test of time and the science has only gotten stronger." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EPA's new proposal aims to question the agency's ability to set standards for car emissions, according to the press release. The full draft of the rule is not yet accessible on the EPA website or federal register to review. The release also said the EPA will "update scientific data and challenge the assumptions" of the 2009 finding with a study from the Department of Energy's 2025 Climate Work Group, which was not peer-reviewed, but says greenhouse gases "appear to be less damaging economically than commonly believed." Plenty of conservative groups and attorneys general have tested the legality of the finding and were pleased with Tuesday's announcement. "Over the last four years, conservative state attorneys general were the last line of defense in fighting back against the Biden administration's federal overreach and green new scam agenda," said Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The finding has previously been challenged in court, most recently in 2023, but the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. circuit upheld the finding and the Supreme Court refused to hear the case. The EPA highlighted subsequent Supreme Court rulings since the finding was signed in 2009 and said, in its press release, those cases "have significantly clarified the scope of EPA's authority under the CAA," indicating the agency may be open to testing whether today's court has an appetite to revisit and overturn the 2007 ruling that greenhouse gases should be regulated under the Clean Air Act by the EPA. "The administration's move to jettison these standards flies in the face of the Supreme Court's landmark decision directing the EPA to follow the science," said Christy Goldfuss, executive director of the Natural Resources Defense Council, in a statement. "If EPA finalizes this illegal and cynical approach, we will see them in court." Impacts of the endangerment finding Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since it was signed in 2009, the most crucial impacts of regulating greenhouse gasses have been to the U.S. transportation sector, which if it were its own country, would be the fourth largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the world, according to the European Commission and data from the EPA. New passenger vehicles today emit 24% less climate pollution than they did in 2011, the year before the first tailpipe regulations went into effect, according to the EPA's own estimates. The EPA tightened the tailpipe emissions standards for cars and trucks in 2024, which was expected to cut 7.2 billion tons of climate pollution by 2055 and save $13 billion in annual health benefits. But according to the EPA's press release, if the proposed draft is finalized it will, "undo the underpinning of $1 trillion in costly regulations (and) save more than $54 billion annually," although no regulatory analysis has been provided to confirm those numbers. In addition to removing regulations on cars, the EPA has already jettisoned similar rules to limit emissions for power plants, has encouraged the development of fossil fuel-based energy and has promised to rollback dozens of additional environmental regulations that hamper the development of American energy and manufacturing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Trump's EPA is trying every trick in the book to deny and avoid their mission to protect people and the environment from the ravages of unchecked climate pollution. Instead of doing their job, this EPA is putting the safety of our loved ones at risk while ratcheting up grid instability, energy bills, and disaster costs," said former EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy, in a statement. How safe is our Social Security safety net? What is "most-favored nation" drug pricing and how does it work? Far-right Israeli minister sparks outrage in Jerusalem; Emaciated hostages seen in new Hamas video As Jeffrey Epsteins most notorious accomplice and former girlfriend is angling to have her criminal conviction dropped, a look at Ghislaine Maxwells life behind bars could offer clues about her motivations outside of prison. Maxwell has reportedly rebranded herself while serving out her two-decades-long sentence for her involvement in Epsteins sex crimes. "I did a double take, because I recognized her face immediately from the news," Jessica Watkins, a former Oath Keeper who was imprisoned in the same low-security Florida facility as Maxwell, told the Daily Mail. "I was like, Is that who I think it is?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein Accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell Could Be Eyeing Three Outcomes As She Meets With Doj Again: Expert Ghislaine Maxwell procured underage victims for Jeffrey Epstein. Watkins was initially sentenced to 8.5 years in prison for her involvement in the attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. Her sentence was commuted by President Donald Trump on his first day back in office earlier this year. "My friend who was with me was like, I don't know - who is it?" Watkins said. "I caught her up on the situation. Started asking around and it was definitely her." Read On The Fox News App She and Maxwell would converse regularly often while the pair were exercising in the open-air prison yard with Maxwell only bringing up her case on occasion, Watkins told the outlet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Timeline Of Jeffrey Epstein Case "We dont talk about cases as inmates because people will think youre a snitch," Watkins explained. "Its an unspoken rule among inmates. You dont ask." However, Watkins reportedly could only recall one time when Maxwell mentioned Epstein. "She did say that the DOJ had no interest in her until after, her exact words were until after Jeffrey, and then she paused for a second and said died," Watkins said. "That was the only time he ever came up." Jeffrey Epstein Case Reopens Focus On Ghislaine Maxwell As Deputy Ag Steps In During the pairs time together in prison, Watkins noticed Maxwell "didnt seem unduly worried" while behind bars, adding, "She seemed very at ease, very calm and approachable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her reportedly calm demeanor makes sense to former Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg, who was elected into office six years after Epsteins case concluded. "The other inmates know who she is and why shes behind bars," Aronberg told Fox News Digital. "Im sure a lot of the other inmates have their hands out. They want the commissary money. They want a free education from her, whatever she can provide." Epsteins Former Lawyer: Ghislaine Maxwell Should Get Immunity In Exchange For Secrets A deposition that British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell gave in 2016 relating to her dealings with the late Jeffrey Epstein is pictured in the Manhattan borough of New York City, New York, U.S., October 22, 2020. While in prison, Maxwell offers legal advice and classes to her fellow inmates, often helping individuals access the necessary forms related to their case and working in the law library, according to Watkins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She was very concerned about peoples medical well-being," Watkins said. "So she did have that kind side to her." She also reportedly focused her free time on reading books, working on her own case or working out foregoing the prisons television privileges. Doj Rejects Ghislaine Maxwells Appeal In Scotus Response However, her work behind bars could indicate an attempt to win over her fellow inmates favor while leveraging her educational background, according to Aronberg. "She had status when she was not behind bars," Aronberg said. "She took that into the prison facility with her, and she is using that." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watkins also described how she and Maxwell found a friendship in their choice to not partake in drug use while locked up. "We avoided most of the inmates [because] they were high all the time, and we didnt want to be around that," Watkins told The Daily Mail. "[Maxwell] would gravitate towards people who were also sober." Watkins' attorney did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. Jeffrey Epstein Thrown Out Of Mar-a-lago For Hiring The Help: Trump In this courtroom sketch, Ghislaine Maxwell confers with her defense attorney Jeffrey Pagliuca, right, before testimony begins in her sex-abuse trial, in New York, Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2021. Maxwells reported decision to not use recreational drugs while in prison could be a larger move to remain out of trouble while she makes a bid for freedom, according to Aronberg. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "An inmates good behavior wont impact their ability to get a new trial," Aronberg told Fox News Digital. "But it does impact their ability to get clemency." Aronberg pointed to Maxwells two days of meetings with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche last week, as President Donald Trump commented on his ability to hand the convicted criminal a pardon. Trump Drops Epstein-linked Names That Media Ought To Be Speaking About Amid Files Firestorm "This is a convicted sex trafficker," Aronberg said. "This is someone who committed sexual assault on minors. This is someone who is indicted for perjury. And yet, she got a private audience with the No. 2 person at the DOJ. Had she been less of a model prisoner behind bars, perhaps the administration wouldn't be rushing to meet with her and believe her in what she's saying." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blanche spent nearly two days at a federal courthouse in Tallahassee interviewing Maxwell, who answered questions "about 100 different people," according to her attorney. "She never invoked a privilege," David Oscar Markus told reporters on Thursday. "She never refused to answer a question, so were very proud of her." Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell Hopes For Trump Pardon After Doj Meeting, Attorney Says Jeffrey Epstein was facing federal sex trafficking charges stemming from years of abuse of minors. The talks come as a House committee subpoenaed Maxwell to testify in a congressional deposition over her knowledge of the scope of Epsteins crimes, while lawmakers continue to demand the DOJ hands over files related to the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Aronberg urges caution from federal prosecutors when taking Maxwells words at face-value. "If you're a model prisoner behind bars, then prosecutors are more likely to believe that you really are trying to do the right thing, you're reformed and you are telling the truth this time around," Aronberg said. "But it's hard to ignore the fact that she is a liar." On Monday, Maxwells legal team submitted a brief asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear her appeal of her federal sex trafficking conviction, citing the governments "obligation to honor" an agreement struck by Epstein that should have shielded Maxwell from any criminal charges. Jeffrey Epstein Accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell To See How Feds Meeting Plays Out Amid Subpoena: Brother Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal prosecutors have argued the deal only applied in Florida, ultimately ruling out Maxwells case in New York. "No one is above the law not even the Southern District of New York," Markus said in a statement. "Our government made a deal, and it must honor it. The United States cannot promise immunity with one hand in Florida and prosecute with the other in New York." Markus went on to appeal to Trump, who has previously said he has the power to pardon Maxwell but has "not thought about" doing so. "President Trump built his legacy in part on the power of a dealand surely he would agree that when the United States gives its word, it must stand by it," Markus said. "We are appealing not only to the Supreme Court but to the President himself to recognize how profoundly unjust it is to scapegoat Ghislaine Maxwell for Epsteins crimes, especially when the government promised she would not be prosecuted." The DOJ did not immediately respond to Fox News Digitals request for comment. Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year sentence for her role in Epsteins scheme to sexually abuse numerous young girls. She is anticipated to testify under oath on Aug. 11 at or near the federal prison she is currently serving her sentence in. "Jeffrey Epstein could not do what he did without Ghislaine Maxwell," Aronberg said. "Shes no victim. She is the devils accomplice." Original article source: Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell plays model inmate as she seeks path out of prison By Richard Cowan WASHINGTON (Reuters) -A Republican-led congressional committee rejected on Tuesday a request by a longtime associate of the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein for immunity from future prosecution as a condition for testifying to the panel in the midst of a political storm surrounding President Donald Trump. Ghislaine Maxwell, who was convicted in New York in 2021 of helping Epstein sexually abuse teenage girls and is serving a 20-year sentence in Florida, has been subpoenaed to testify privately to the House of Representatives Oversight and Government Reform Committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The committee has aimed to conduct a deposition of Maxwell, a British socialite who was the wealthy financier's longtime girlfriend, on August 11 at the prison where she is being held in Tallahassee. "Ms. Maxwell cannot risk further criminal exposure in a politically charged environment without formal immunity," Maxwell's lawyer David Markus told Representative James Comer, who chairs the House committee, in a letter. In an emailed statement, a committee spokesperson said: "The Oversight Committee will respond to Ms. Maxwell's attorney soon, but it will not consider granting congressional immunity for her testimony." Markus also had laid down additional conditions for a deposition, including conducting it somewhere other than the prison and being provided with the committee's questions in advance. Maxwell, Markus added, would testify to the committee in a public setting if she were to be granted clemency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maxwell is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn her conviction. Trump has said he was not considering a presidential pardon for Maxwell. Questions over Trump's past relationship with Epstein, who died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on charges of sex trafficking minors, and his administration's handling of records related to the case have dogged the president for weeks, including during a weekend visit to Scotland. Trump knew Epstein socially in the 1990s and early 2000s. Trump has said that he cut off ties with Epstein years before Epstein's death. Democrats in Congress and some of Trump's core supporters have demanded the release of documents involving Epstein and Maxwell. Epstein served a 13-month jail sentence after pleading guilty in 2008 to a Florida state felony prostitution charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats on Tuesday sought more information about the matter. Dick Durbin, the No. 2 Senate Democrat, and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse wrote to the Justice Department, asking for a copy of the transcript of a recent conversation a department official had with Maxwell. In addition, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called on the FBI to conduct a "counterintelligence threat assessment" to determine the risk to U.S. national security if a foreign entity were to gain access to the Epstein files. "Could our adversaries use that information to blackmail someone like the president or other senior leaders in government?" Schumer asked. (Reporting by Richard Cowan; Editing by Will Dunham) There's a lucrative black market for guns in New York Cityat least that's one way to read the news coming from Democratic Mayor Eric Adams' office. At a press conference on Sunday, Adams and New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced that the department has seized more than 3,000 illegal firearms since the start of 2025. The announcement was part of a larger proclamation touting the success of the Adams administration in reducing violent crime in New York City. "Each gun we take off the street is a river of violence that we are damming," said Adams, who also claims his administration has seized over 22,700 illegal firearms since 2022. The gun laws in New York state are some of the most restrictive in the nation, and there is no explicit state constitutional right to bear arms. Since 2022, New York City has operated under a "shall-issue" licensing system. However, it still significantly restricts gun ownership and carry rights by requiring permits and licenses for virtually every aspect of firearm ownership and does not recognize permits from other states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adams has continued the city's restrictive gun tradition by advocating for limiting legal access to guns and funding failing public services. In 2022, Adams launched the more than $485 million Blueprint for Community Safety to address gun violence as a "public health crisis," allocating funds for mentorship, public benefits, and public spaces. However, the plan hasn't significantly limited the inventory of guns, as Adams himself has noted that for every weapon seized, "five find their way back on the street." The mayor has also targeted ghost gunsunserialized firearms made from DIY kits or manufactured using 3D printersclaiming that they make up 1,500 of the 22,700 guns seized during his term. In 2024, Adams and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr. filed an amicus curiae brief in Garland v. VanDerStok in support of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATF). As covered by Reason's J.D. Tuccille, the lawsuit challenged the BATF's 2022 "frame or receiver" rule, which treats some unfinished gun parts kits as functioning firearms. Yet, the number of ghost guns retrieved suggests Adams' policies have had little effect in actually reducing the number of guns on the street. The number of ghost guns seized has increased significantly from 17 in 2018 to 438 in 2024, with 137 ghost guns already seized in 2025. (For reference, the Justice Department seized 28,238 nationwide in 2022.) Despite prioritizing gun confiscation, New York City under Adams saw increased violent crime, especially among minors. Those intent on pursuing violence do not look to laws as a guide for what weapons they can and can't use. Gun control measures like New York's simply allow alternative measures of procurement to flourish, at the expense of law-abiding citizens and their Second Amendment rights. The post Eric Adams' Gun Seizures Haven't Reduced the Number of Guns in New York City appeared first on Reason.com. JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) The East Tennessee State University (ETSU) College of Nursing was granted a special status for its trauma-informed workplace practices. On Tuesday, ETSU announced its College of Nursing earned the Silver Recognition status from the Better Workplaces Tennessee program. According to ETSU, it is the only college in Tennessee to ever receive the Silver-level recognition. Bicyclist dead after Sullivan County crash Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ETSU attributed the award to the colleges dedication to providing trauma-informed care and creating a safe and nurturing environment for everyone. Emphasis on transparency and collaboration, mutuality, psychological safety, all basic work practices that have a great deal of scientific evidence behind them, said Dr. Wallace E. Dixon, Jr. of the ETSU/Ballad Health Strong BRAIN Institute. So its an evidence-based approach, but its called, under the broader category, its called trauma-informed practices. The status was awarded to the College of Nursing because of its intentional work to foster a safe, supportive and resilient environment for faculty, staff and students, a news release from ETSU states. Achieving the Silver status of the program is done by focusing on four key areas: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leading and communicating Hiring and orientation practices Establishing a safe work environment Reviewing policies and procedures ETSU also marked five years of the ETSU/Ballad Health Strong BRAIN Institute on Tuesday. The institute led the statewide Better Workplaces initiative with the Tennessee Department of Health. The institutes mission is to research and develop policies and trainings surrounding the effects of adverse childhood experiences and trauma. Since its creation, the Strong BRAIN Institute has worked with local educators and organizations to better equip them for creating a positive culture. When people hear the word trauma, and we use the word in our label, trauma-informed practices, a lot of people dont want to hear about trauma, and they dont exactly know what we mean by trauma, Dixon said. So part of the challenge weve had is translating our messaging in ways that people will embrace rather than move away from. The problem is, its not our use of the term trauma. Its everybody elses use of the word trauma. And were just bringing it forward. But people dont like that word. And so were trying to figure out new messaging strategies, new techniques. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. The European Commission has reiterated that restoring the powers of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) is crucial to Ukraines anti-corruption framework, ahead of an upcoming vote in the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian parliament) on a draft law aimed at ensuring the independence of these bodies. Source: a statement by a spokesperson of the Commission that has been obtained by European Pravda Details: During a call with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on 28 July, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivered a clear message: Ukraine must continue strengthening its democratic foundations as a future EU member and preserve the independence of its key anti-corruption institutions, which are cornerstones of the rule of law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Commission is urging the Verkhovna Rada to urgently adopt the bill to address the current challenges to NABU and SAPO's independence. "The respect for the rule of law and the fight against corruption are fundamental elements of the European Union. They are at the core of the accession process and respond to the demands from the Ukrainian population. As a candidate country, Ukraine is expected to uphold these standards fully," the spokesperson said. They stressed that "there cannot be compromise" and that the EU expects the Ukrainian authorities to "work hard to restore the trust of its citizens and its international partners through decisive steps on rule of law". Read also: Silence is no longer an option: the West must rethink its Ukraine policy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: On 25 July, Verkhovna Rada Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk announced that the president's draft law to restore NABU and SAPOs independence would be considered on 31 July. Following the adoption of a law that placed these agencies under the control of the Prosecutor General, the EU reportedly issued a diplomatic warning to Kyiv of possible consequences should parliament fail to repeal the relevant provisions of draft law No 12414. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The EU has warned Kyiv through diplomatic channels that it will freeze some financial assistance if a bill restoring the independence of Ukraine's principal anti-corruption bodies is not passed, European Pravda and Ukrainska Pravda reported on July 29, citing undisclosed sources. The Ukrainian parliament is set to vote on the new bill on July 31 after another legislation, passed last week, effectively destroyed the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). EU sources told European Pravda that if the controversial legislation curtailing the independence of anti-graft agencies is not rolled back, the EU would halt funding under the G7's Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) loan, a financing program covered by frozen Russian assets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EU is shouldering roughly $20 billion of the $50 billion allocated to the ERA by G7 members. Funding via the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) would also reportedly be paused. The freeze would not, according to European Pravda, concern funds allocated under the EU's Ukraine Facility program, even though the next tranche under the initiative was reduced from 4.5 billion euros ($5.2 billion) to 3.05 billion euros ($3.5 billion) due to delays in other reforms. Conversely, Ukrainska Pravda reported that the Ukraine Facility funding may also be paused, though this step would be more difficult to implement due to legal constraints. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EU officials informed Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko's government about the decision on July 24, saying that "everything has been put on hold until the situation is corrected," Ukrainska Pravda reported, citing its sources. Last week, the European Commission publicly denied that funding cuts are being considered in response to the new bill. The EU has been Ukraine's main supporter during Russia's full-scale invasion. The bloc and its member states have provided $180 billion in military, economic, and humanitarian aid to Kyiv since 2022. The bill 12414, which was swiftly passed by the parliament and signed by President Volodymyr Zelensky on July 22, grants the prosecutor general sweeping new powers over NABU and SAPO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legislation was met with backlash at home and abroad as it was seen as rolling back some of the key achievements of the post-EuroMaidan anti-corruption reforms. Following EU criticism and mass protests across Ukraine, Zelensky announced that the new bill restoring the agencies' independence was submitted to the parliament on July 24. EU leaders have also signaled that the controversial legislation could hamper Ukraine's accession efforts. Kyiv applied for EU membership in 2022, and the initial negotiations were formally launched in mid-2024. Hungary, the most Moscow-friendly EU government, has thus far blocked the opening of the first negotiations cluster with Ukraine, making any progress in the near future uncertain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Investigation: Despite sanctions, American trucks are being used by Russia to launch kamikaze drones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. President Volodymyr Zelensky's sudden move to strip the country's anti-corruption infrastructure of its independence stunned the European Union. Even as the Ukrainian authorities now attempt to reverse the controversial move that faced a harsh backlash from the EU and the wider public, the damage to Kyiv's potential accession to the union has already been done, experts say. Two days after hastily signing a controversial bill that subordinates the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) to the Prosecutor General, the president was forced to make a public U-turn, registering a bill that would walk back the introduced changes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The given justification for such a chaotic back and forth getting rid of Russian influence was met with skepticism on the streets of Kyiv and in the high cabinets of Brussels. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other European leaders held calls with Zelensky to stress the importance of the anti-corruption infrastructure a key condition for the start of accession talks. "(Ukraine) must build on these solid foundations and preserve independent anti-corruption bodies, which are cornerstones of Ukraine's rule of law," von der Leyen said in a post on X on July 27, after her call with Zelensky. Its not just about the law itself, but about the signal it sends: that key institutions can be brought under political control within one day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What (European allies) have seen is how quickly a decade's worth of anti-corruption reforms can be undone in just a few hours," Elena Davlikanova, a Democracy Fellow with the Center for European Policy Analysis, told the Kyiv Independent. "It's not just about the law itself, but about the signal it sends: that key institutions can be brought under political control within one day." It took 12 hours for the parliament to pass and the president to sign the contentious bill that sparked first mass protests since the start of the all-out war. Read also: Meet Ukraines EuroMaidan protesters fighting again for democracy in wartime Kyiv (PHOTOS) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Member of the European Parliament Daniel Freund, who recently visited Ukraine and specializes in transparency and the fight against corruption, admitted that the U-turn in the rule of law may put the accession process and the future of the EU funding at risk. The European Commission said a few days after Zelensky signed the controversial bill into law that the next tranche of EU financial assistance to Ukraine under the Ukraine Facility mechanism would be cut due to unfulfilled reforms. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Turnberry, Scotland, on July 27, 2025. (Brendan Smialowski / AFP via Getty Images) While the European officials, behind closed doors, confirm that this specific funding cut was not connected to the recent legislation, many say that future support is now in question. "We were not given a heads-up," Freund told the Kyiv Independent, saying that the EU was "taken aback by this development." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A top EU official, speaking on conditions of anonymity, said that the bloc is in touch with Ukraine and has made its position clear on the recent developments, especially as an ally providing the war-torn country with significant financial assistance on the condition of progress in transparency, judicial reform, and democratic governance. "What matters for now is that Ukraine can guarantee that its anti-corruption bodies are fully independent," the EU official told the Kyiv Independent. Read also: Zelenskys big Ukraine blunder, explained Worst timing The timing of the newly adopted law that critics say was to dismantle the independence of two key anti-corruption bodies was especially hurtful, according to the politicians and experts, who spoke with the Kyiv Independent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EU was close to formally launching the accession process and opening the first negotiation cluster despite Hungary's veto, according to the Kyiv Independent source, a high-ranking European diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity. EU politicians, such as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, could use Ukraine's anti-corruption backsliding to their advantage, according to Freund. While he believes that the "accession process should proceed swiftly" as long as Ukraine reverses the bill, the U-turn doesn't help build the EU's trust in Ukraine, especially as the member states were putting pressure on Orban to lift his veto. "I fear he (Orban) might misuse Tuesday's changes for his pro-Russian (and) anti-Ukrainian agenda," Freund told the Kyiv Independent. "The longer the process of abolishing the subordination of NABU and SAPO to the prosecutor general is delayed, the more problems there will be for European integration and for public trust in the authorities." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mattia Nelles, co-founder and executive director of the Germany-based think-tank German-Ukrainian Bureau, also believes that such "big stepbacks" even if reversed would only encourage those who oppose Ukraine joining the EU one day. "Trust has been damaged," Nelles told the Kyiv Independent, stressing that the Ukrainian side's decision to ignore European partners' warnings with its "reckless government policy" was hurtful. Much depends on the Ukrainian government's next steps, according to the experts. Liubov Akulenko, the executive director of the Kyiv-based Ukrainian Center for European Policy, said that it is crucial for parliament to move quickly in reversing the July 22 law "without any crazy amendments." Protesters turn on flashlights and hold placards during a rally against a law restricting the independence of anti-corruption institutions in Kyiv, Ukraine, on July 22, 2025. (Dan Bashakov / Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) Akulenko also stressed that it would be important for the EU to "show its teeth" from now on as strict control and monitoring of Ukraine's fight against corruption would be crucial, especially behind closed doors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the EU's enlargement policy faces challenges, Akulenko said the Ukrainian authorities' backward decision on July 22 likely "ruined" the trust, even after Ukraine had fulfilled the criteria for the first cluster to start. "I do not even want to think when it will be possible to open the first cluster now," Akulenko told the Kyiv Independent. The high-ranking European diplomat said, however, that it was the EU that was at fault for accession clusters to remain closed. "Ukraine did everything," the diplomat said. "We didn't." Yaroslav Yurchyshyn, who was among the roughly 50 lawmakers who submitted another bill to restore NABU and SAPO's independence shortly before Zelensky submitted a bill of his own, said he believes that many in the parliament would vote in favor of reestablishing the independence of anti-corruption institutions if the President's Office tells them so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The longer the process of abolishing the subordination of NABU and SAPO to the prosecutor general is delayed, the more problems there will be for European integration and for public trust in the authorities," Yurchyshyn, head of the parliamentary committee on freedom of speech, told the Kyiv Independent. "(Independent) NABU is of crucial importance to us," the high-ranking European diplomat said. Read also: Orban offers Ukraine strategic cooperation, claims EU accession would drag the war into Europe Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The European Union has delivered a warning to Kyiv via diplomatic channels, stating that if the Ukrainian parliament fails to fully revoke the provisions of law No. 12414, financial support will be suspended. Source: Ekonomichna Pravda sources within the Ukrainian government and parliament; European Pravda citing sources in EU institutions Details: EU officials are preparing for a scenario in which, on Thursday 31 July, during a vote in the Verkhovna Rada (Ukraine's Parliament), MPs either fail to pass any legislation restoring the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO), or adopt amendments that result in only partial restoration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As reported by Ekonomichna Pravda, "on 24 July, EU representatives informed PM Svyrydenkos government via diplomatic channels that they are suspending all financial aid to Ukraine." "Everything is on pause until the situation is rectified," one source stated. An EU official involved in this communication confirmed to European Pravda that Brussels has indeed issued a warning to Kyiv but clarified the scope of the freeze: "Yes, the EU has warned Kyiv. If the law is not passed, loans financed through revenues from frozen Russian assets under the ERA programme will stop we will simply stop disbursing them. Funding from the EBRD and EIB will also be suspended," the official stated on condition of anonymity. At the same time, European Pravdas sources say the Ukraine Facility programme, which provides macro-financial aid linked to reforms, is not expected to be frozen. The EU recently approved the fourth tranche under this programme, although in a reduced amount. In August, Ukraine is expected to receive 3.05 billion instead of the expected 4.5 billion due to reform delays. This tranche is reportedly not subject to further freezes, but since it is already reduced, any further reform delays as defined by the Ukraine Facility conditions may result in future cuts. The EU has also begun raising concerns about other reform-related matters, including the appointment of the head of the Bureau of Economic Security based on the results of a completed competitive process, several sources told European Pravda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brussels believes Ukraine must understand the consequences if Kyiv fails to reverse last weeks rollback of anti-corruption reforms. Background: In July, despite expectations of positive decisions from the EU, Kyiv initiated what some view as a retreat from anti-corruption measures. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Europes infrastructure including roads, bridges and railways cannot support the rapid deployment of tanks, troops, and military cargo in the event of a war with Russia, said Apostolos Tzitzikostas, European Commissioner for Transport and Tourism. Source: Financial Times, as reported by European Pravda Details: Tzitzikostas stated that if NATO is forced to respond to a Russian military incursion across the eastern border of the European Union, tanks will get stuck in tunnels, collapse bridges and be delayed by bureaucratic procedures at border crossings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EU commissioner said he plans to allocate 17 billion to modernise infrastructure to improve military mobility. Quote: "We have old bridges that need to be upgraded. We have narrow bridges that need to be widened. And we have nonexistent bridges to be built." Details: Tzitzikostas explained that it would be impossible to defend territory if European armies are unable to move freely. "The reality today is that if we want to move military equipment and troops from the western side of Europe to the eastern side, it takes weeks and in some cases months," he added. The commissioner also noted that most of the existing infrastructure was never designed for transporting armies across the EU. For instance, trucks on European roads typically weigh up to 40 tonnes, whereas tanks weigh up to 70 tonnes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said that the EU is currently developing a strategy to enable troop movements "in a matter of hours, maximum a matter of days" in case of an attack. To achieve this, the EU plans to upgrade 500 infrastructure facilities along four military corridors. The exact facilities to be modernised are not disclosed for security reasons. Tzitzikostas emphasised that Brussels also wants to reduce bureaucracy so that "tanks dont get stuck in paperwork" when crossing borders. The Financial Times noted that the upcoming strategy, expected to be presented later this year, is viewed as part of a broader wave of military preparations. This comes amidst warnings of a potential large-scale confrontation with Moscow and a likely reduction in the US military presence in Europe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tzitzikostas said the military mobility plan would complement the NATO countries agreement to increase defence spending targets to 5% of GDP, with 1.5% dedicated specifically to security and defence infrastructure. "We cannot afford anymore not to be ready or be dependent," the Commissioner concluded. Background: In June, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warned that Russia is building up its military capabilities and could be ready to use force against NATO states within five years. Germanys Federal Intelligence Service has assessed that Russia views itself as being in a systemic conflict with the West and is preparing for a large-scale war with NATO. EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius shares the view of Western intelligence services that a Russian attack on EU countries may occur within the next few years. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The European Commission has demanded that Kyiv urgently appoint a head of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine (ESBU) in line with the law and the existing selection and appointment procedures. Source: a European Commission spokesperson to European Pravda Details: The European Commission emphasised that the ESBU reform is part of Ukraines broader commitments within the EU accession process. "Kyiv should appoint the director of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine swiftly and in line with the ESBU reform law and applicable selection and appointment procedures," the spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is essential to advance the ESBU reform and ensure its independent and effective functioning," he added. The spokesperson reiterated that the European Commissions 2024 enlargement report underlined the need for the swift implementation of the ESBU law, particularly through a transparent merit-based selection process. The ESBU plays an important role in Ukraines fight against financial crimes. The EU has previously stressed the importance of appointing the ESBU head based on integrity. Read more: Silence is no longer an option: the West must rethink its Ukraine policy Background: Stefan Schleuning, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, had emphasised that the appointment of the winner of the competition for the position of head of the Economic Security Bureau is a key indicator for the EU of Ukraines progress on reforms. This has become one of the few public statements by foreign diplomats regarding the ESBU situation after the government cancelled the results of the competition. Amid concerns over the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), several EU sources told European Pravda that the EU has also started raising questions about other reform-related actions, including appointing the ESBU head based on the results of a competition. In July, despite expected positive decisions from the EU, Kyiv launched a pushback against reforms. European Pravda covered this in its article How Zelenskyy undermined Ukraine's path to EU membership and what happens next. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Isabella Rose Medina was taken into custody for aggravated animal cruelty after authorities discovered a severely malnourished horse at her home in Citra, Florida. On July 23, 2025, the Marion County Sheriffs Office responded to a report about an underweight horse at Medinas residence. The horse, Bully, a 17-year-old Old Bay Thoroughbred Gelding, was seen with visible ribs, tailhead, and hip bones, pointing to severe malnutrition. Investigator McClure spoke with Medina, who explained she had owned Bully for a year and observed weight loss in the past month. She admitted she had not taken him to a veterinarian, believing that only hay was necessary, but she did not have any. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 24, 2025, a search and seizure warrant authorized deputies to seize Bully. The horse was then taken to the Agriculture Investigations farm for veterinary assessment. After evaluation, Bully was diagnosed with rain rot and received a body condition score of one, indicating emaciation and muscle loss. Because of the seriousness of his condition, the veterinarian advised euthanasia to avoid further suffering. The investigation found that Medina deliberately denied Bully sufficient food and medical attention, resulting in her arrest. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Downtown Evanston residents who would be neighbors of a proposed 31-story, 430-unit apartment building, if it is built, will get a chance to demonstrate their concerns that the tower will negatively affect their quality of life to the citys Land Use Commission, the commission voted Wednesday evening, July 23. Five residents who live close to the proposed building at 605 Davis Street gave public comment and sent letters to the Land Use Commission requesting to be heard before the commission votes on whether to approve the proposed building. The residents said they have concerns about traffic the new building will cause, the potential wind effects that come with it, its density and overall parking issues it could cause. Under the citys code, property owners that live within 1,000 feet of a proposed development have the right to ask for one continuance, or additional Land Use Commission meeting, for the purpose of presenting evidence to rebut testimony given by the applicant. The citys staff verifies a persons address via public property tax records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Proposed by Vermilion Group and Campbell Coyle, plans call for the building near the corner of Davis Street and Chicago Avenue to have 430 apartments, with 20% of them rented at affordable rates. That is 5% higher than the citys inclusionary housing ordinance, Kerry Dickson, Vermilions manager director, said. The proposal has changed after rounds of public hearings, Dickson said. In their original application to the city, the developers proposed 447 apartments for the 331-foot tower. Variations in the proposal include more two- and three-bedroom units to accommodate families, which decreased the total number of units to 430, and a smaller bike room to allow for more retail space on the ground floor, among other shifts. At a public hearing in April, residents had mixed reactions to the proposal, with some residents skeptical of the parking, wind and affordable housing studies that the developers presented. The Land Use Commission will give the residents an opportunity to present their case at its Aug. 13 meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city of Evanstons Planning Manager Elizabeth Williams said, They have the opportunity to present evidence at that continuance hearing to be able to basically refute anything that was presented by the applicant or anything specific to their continuance requests. Previously, traffic studies presented by the developers predict the traffic impact that the building would create will be minimal. The development as proposed would have 80 onsite parking spots and 120 parking spots leased at a city-owned parking garage a block away on Davis Street, according to Dickson. The developers requested a variance to the citys zoning code, which otherwise would have required the developers to offer 250 parking spaces for the development. The developers also asked for a variance in the citys zoning code to build 430 apartments, whereas the city allows 95 dwelling units to be built on those downtown parcels. Residents were also concerned about the developments Floor Area Ratio, frequently referred to as FAR, a measurement of a buildings floor area compared to its lot size, according to the American Planning Association. ] Planners and zoning officials consider it in determining whether a building will fit into the character of a neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Part of the reason the proposal could get a variance from the LUC and City Council is that the development includes the University Building at 1604 Chicago Avenue in its FAR score. That made some residents skeptical because no additions or renovations to the University Building are expected to be part of the development. At Wednesdays meeting, Dickson said about the University Buildings inclusion in the development, Theyre our partner in this projectTheyve owned the University Building and this lot [at 605 Davis St.] for the 50 years its been vacant, he said. All Didarul Islam, the NYPD cop killed by a rampaging gunman in a mass shooting in a Park Ave. skyscraper, wanted in life was to do something important to leave behind a legacy his family could be proud of. But his chosen career path ended his life and nearly killed his heartbroken father, who suffered a stroke upon hearing the news that his son had been gunned down. He had a minor stroke. He was also hospitalized, too, the 36-year-old cops cousin Zohirul Islam, speaking to the Daily News Tuesday, said of Didaruls dad. [Didaruls fathers] very weak, because thats his only son. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But everyone in Didaruls family has been affected by his death, Zohirul, 40, said. Im actually broken, Zohirul said. Everyone is broken. More than 500 officers, including NYPD police and Emergency Service Unit members, plus New York State Police, crowded onto the block near Virginia and Gleason Aves. outside of the Parkchester Jame Masjid in the Bronx Tuesday evening, where Didaruls body was brought from the city medical examiners office. The mourners, including Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, all saluted, standing together as Didaruls body, draped in the NYPD flag in what police call the dignified transfer was brought to the mosque. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was willing to put his life on the line for the entire city, said Patrick Hendry, president of the Police Benevolent Association union, speaking outside the house of worship. And no one could have predicted that evil would have came to our city last night and preyed on innocent people and preyed on a police officer who was protecting them. He did a job that most people dont want to do. Among the mourners was Abdul Salam, a friend of Didaruls since their childhood in Bangladesh. Outstanding person, very nice and cool, he said. He takes care of his family most of the time. Hardworking guy he is. I cant even express. I saw him last years ago, but we grew up together. We played sports and everything together. He used to play cricket games. Our local clubs we used to play for. Didarul, a father of two with a baby on the way, one of four people gunned down by Shane Tamura inside the Midtown high-rise Monday evening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He always wanted to be a cop, his brother-in-law, Jamil Rahman, told the Daily News Monday night. He was a hardworking family man, Rahman said. Everybody is shocked and terribly saddened at the same time. Anamul Haque, general secretary of Bronx Islamic Cultural Center Masjid Bilal, said Didarul was a regular at the house of worship along with his father and children. Both of his sons are enrolled in a summer program in our masjid, he said. They attend every day. The children are usually brought by Didaruls father. The three of them pray there four or five times a day. Didarul joins them when he has a day off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haque described Didarul as a quiet but big-hearted worshiper who frequently donated to the mosque. When Haque bought the building near Didaruls home for the mosque in 2020, Didarul donated about $6,000 to help make it happen. Right when I asked him, right away, he gave me the check, Haque said. And last Ramadan, he gave food for more than 100 people. We are very sad because hes a very young guy and we lost our brother, he added. Didarul was an NYPD Traffic Enforcement Agent for several years before going into the Police Academy, TEA union President Alexander Sadik confirmed. He left the job to become a cop about four years ago. It was his dream, Sadik said. Its very sad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Didarul was in uniform working a paid security detail in the building, a side gig approved by the NYPD, when Tamura stormed inside the building at E. 51st St. with an M-4 assault rifle about 6:30 p.m. Monday and started firing. Tamura killed three civilians and wounded a fourth before getting lost in the building and taking his own life, officials said. At the time of his death, Didarul was assigned to the 47th Precinct in the Bronx. He had been a police officer since 2021. A week before the shooting, he spent an entire day in training learning about tactical awareness and officer safety, according to his department profile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputy Inspector Muhammad Ashraf, the commanding officer of the 47th Precinct, called Didarul a valued member of our command. Officer Islam was carrying out his duty to protect New Yorkers when his life was tragically taken, Ashraf wrote. His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. In his five-year career, Didarul racked up 26 felony arrests and 45 misdemeanor arrests. Its a sad day for not only our members, but for the #NYPD and #NYC, the NYPD Muslim Officers Society said on Facebook. We lost one of the finest today to a senseless act of violence. Mayor Adams called Didarul a true blue New Yorker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, Adams ordered all the flags on city buildings to be lowered to half-staff in the officers honor. Didarul was Tamuras first target and was shot as soon as the gunman stepped into the lobby in an act of senseless violence, Tisch said in a video released to NYPD personnel Tuesday. He was murdered wearing a uniform respected the world over. Didarul died at New York-Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell. Answer The Call, a nonprofit organization that supports families of fallen first responders, announced Tuesday it would provide the slain officers family with $50,000 in immediate financial support and an annual stipend of, as of now, $11,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officer Islams death is yet another reminder that everything you risk just by showing up for work, Tisch said in the video. He knew that risk. He embraced it. He understood what it meant to put the safety of others above his own. Assemblyman and mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani noted that Didarul lived in the Parkchester section of the Bronx with his wife, children and elderly parents. When he joined the Police Department, his mother asked him why he would pursue such a dangerous job. He told her it was to leave behind a legacy that his family could be proud of, Mamdani said. He has done that, and more. I pray for him, his family, and honor the legacy of service and sacrifice he leaves behind. Didaruls friend Marjanul Karim, 31, told The News that Didarul had once worked as a peace officer in middle schools but always wanted to join the NYPD. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He wanted to support his family, and he fell in love with law enforcement. He was a selfless individual, Karim said. This house he bought while providing for his elderly parents. He was a standup guy. It only made sense for someone like him to join the police force. He told my mom, You have to die one way or another,' Karim added. He died a hero. Alvaro Uribe has become the first former Colombian president to be convicted of a crime. A court in Bogota found the 73-year-old, who was president from 2002 to 2010, guilty of witness-tampering and a fraud charge. He was convicted of attempting to bribe witnesses in a separate investigation into allegations that he had ties to right-wing paramilitaries, responsible for human rights abuses. Each charge carries up to 12 years in prison. Uribe is expected to appeal the verdict, having always maintained his innocence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uribe is best known for mounting an aggressive offensive against leftist guerrilla group the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc) during his tenure. He has always denied ties to right-wing paramilitaries. The former president sat shaking his head as the verdict was read out, AFP reported, in the trial that has seen more than 90 witnesses testify. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has condemned the court's decision, accusing the country's judiciary of being weaponised. The former president's "only crime has been to tirelessly fight and defend his homeland," he wrote on the social media site, X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The result comes more than a decade after Uribe was first charged in 2012. At that time, he accused a left-wing senator, Ivan Cepeda, of a plot against him. Uribe claimed Cepeda wanted to falsely link him to right-wing paramilitary groups involved in Colombia's internal armed conflict. But the country's Supreme Court dismissed the former president's claims against Cepeda, instead investigating Uribe for the ties. The former president was then accused of contacting jailed ex-fighters and bribing them to deny connections to the paramilitary groups - tampering with key witnesses. Uribe said he had wanted to convince the ex-fighters to tell the truth. Uribe supporters outside court in Bogota [Getty Images] Paramilitary groups emerged in Colombia in the 1980s with the stated goal of taking on poverty and marginalisation. They fought the Marxist-inspired guerrilla groups that had themselves battled the state two decades prior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of the armed groups which developed in the standoff made an income from the cocaine trade. Violent and deadly fighting between them and with the state has produced lasting rivalries for trafficking routes and resources. Uribe was praised by Washington for his hard-line approach to Farc rebels but was a divisive politician whose critics say did little to improve the inequality and poverty in the country. Farc signed a peace deal with Uribe's successor in 2016 though violence from disarmed groups persists in Colombia. A SWAT team arrested a former Hooksett Police officer at a Massachusetts hotel Monday night, where he was holed up with two firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition after fleeing Manchester following an alleged domestic assault and allegedly threatening to harm an infant and law enforcement, police said. Ex-Hooksett cop Schleiden Meneide accused of threating infant, police in Manchester Schleiden Meneide Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schleiden Meneide, a 37-year-old Manchester man, was taken into custody after crisis negotiators in Waltham, Mass., persuaded him to leave a room he had rented at a Best Western hotel. His arrest came nearly 12 hours after a woman reported a domestic violence incident at a home on Village Circle Way in Manchester Monday morning, police said in a news release. At the time of his arrest, Meneide had an AR-15 rifle with a suppressor attached, six fully loaded 30-round rifle magazines, three fully loaded 20-round rifle magazines, a fully loaded 100-round drum-style rifle magazine, a 9 mm SIG Sauer handgun and three fully loaded 21-round 9 mm handgun magazines in his hotel room, Waltham Police said. Shortly after 9:30 a.m. Monday, a woman came to the Manchester Police Department to report that Meneide had assaulted her and threatened her with a shotgun, police said. She stated that Meneide put his arm around her neck from behind and strangled her until she lost consciousness. When she regained consciousness, he threatened to kill her infant son and made additional threats toward police, Manchester Police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman and child were able to leave the apartment safely. An arrest warrant was issued for Meneide, as well as a be-on-the-lookout warning for Meneide and the vehicle he drives. At 6:30 p.m., Manchester Police contacted the Waltham Police Department, saying Meneide was believed to be at the Best Western there and advising them that Meneide had an active warrant involving a firearm, had made threats against police and was considered armed and dangerous, officials said. After confirming Meneide was a guest at the hotel, police called in extra support. Due to the safety concerns that existed, Waltham PD requested a full callout of the Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC) SWAT team and Crisis Negotiators, police said. Meanwhile, Waltham Police obtained a warrant to arrest Meneide as a fugitive from justice and to search his hotel room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meneide faces charges in Manchester of second-degree assault, strangulation, two counts of criminal threatening with a deadly weapon and domestic violence simple assault, police said. In Waltham, he was charged with two counts of possession of a firearm without a license to carry or a firearms identification card, possession of large-capacity firearm (rifle), possession of a large-capacity firearm (handgun), possession of a suppressor, two counts of improper storage of a firearm, and 13 counts of possession of a large-capacity firearm for the 13 magazines he had with him, police said. No one was injured during the operation, police said. Meneide is currently being held in Waltham, pending a hearing, the release said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is not the first time the former officer has faced criminal charges. Meneide resigned from the Hooksett Police Department in 2023 to avoid criminal prosecution and was accused of stealing from a Target in Hooksett in February. He had served as a police officer in Hooksett from August 2019 to May 2023, when he negotiated his resignation from the force with the New Hampshire Attorney Generals Office after criminal allegations involving the misuse of the State Police On-Line Telecommunications System (SPOTS). State investigators found evidence that Meneide had unlawfully acquired and used information from SPOTS, according to a news release from the Attorney Generals Office in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He agreed to surrender his law enforcement certification and to be placed on a national registry of decertified officers. He also agreed to not seek future employment as a law enforcement officer, police said. dpierce@unionleader.com July 28 (UPI) -- Democrat and former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper on Monday announced that he is running for the U.S. Senate seat held by Republican Thom Tillis, who won't seek re-election in 2026. Cooper, 68, revealed his plans in a video on his website and social media. On June 29, Tillis, 64, announced he wouldn't seek a third six-year term, after receiving backlash in voting against President Donald Trump's big spending bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I have thought on it and prayed about it, and I have decided: I am running to be the next U.S. Senator from North Carolina,'' Cooper, 68, said. Cooper served eight years and was term-limited in 2024. Previously, he was attorney general, in which he said he "took on scammers, big banks and drug companies" while avoiding social issues. Cooper, who received an undergraduate and law degrees from the University of North Carolina, served four terms as attorney general from 2001 to 2017. He was elected to the North Carolina House and Senate from 1987 to 2001. I have thought on it and prayed about it, and I have decided: I am running to be the next U.S. Senator from North Carolina. pic.twitter.com/jXvuioO1T0 Roy Cooper (@RoyCooperNC) July 28, 2025 "I never really wanted to go to Washington," Cooper said in the video. "I just wanted to serve the people of North Carolina, right here where I've lived all my life. But these are not ordinary times." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His announcement focused on the middle class. "For too many Americans, the middle class feels like a distant dream," he said. "Meanwhile, the biggest corporations and the richest Americans have grabbed unimaginable wealth at your expense. I'm running for Senate because it's time for that to change." Cooper, the son of a small-town lawyer and farmer, said it didn't used to be that way. "It wasn't always this hard, because being in the middle class meant something," he said. "You could afford a home, your kids went to good schools, your job paid enough to cover the basics, and most summers, you could get away for a few days. For the most part, life was pretty good." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican National Committee Chairman Whatley has been endorsed by Trump for the seat and is expected to shortly announce a run. Lara Trump, a North Carolina native and Trump's daughter-in-law, said last month she wouldn't seek the seat. Democrats hope to pick up seats in the U.S. Senate, which is currently controlled by the GOP 53-47. Thirty-three of the 100 seats will be up for election, along with special elections for two others: JD Vance's seat in Ohio and Marco Rubio's in Florida, both now held by Republican replacements. Of those, 22 are held by Republicans and 13 by Democrats. In late July 2025, reporters from The New York Times discovered a "mysterious" transfer of $934 million that they claimed would be used to renovate the Boeing 747 plane U.S. President Donald Trump received as a gift from Qatar earlier that year. Trump said on Truth Social in May that the plane was a gift for the Department of Defense (DOD), not him personally, and that it would "replace" the current Air Force One. According to the Times, the DOD would use the $934 million, taken from a yearslong project to update the U.S.'s ground-based nuclear missiles, to renovate the plane to Air Force One standards. The $934 million transfer was for an "unnamed classified project," according to the Times report. Following the New York Times article, claims (archived) circulated online about the alleged transfer, referencing (archived) the Times article. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One X user wrote, "Retrofitting Trump's 747-8 luxury jet bribe from Qatar might cost taxpayers $934 million (!!!)" above a screenshot from the article. Retrofitting Trump's 747-8 luxury jet bribe from Qatar might cost taxpayers $934 million (!!!) pic.twitter.com/R3sC3iVeNx Tommy Vietor (@TVietor08) July 27, 2025 The claim also circulated on Instagram (archived), Threads (archived), Bluesky (archived) and Reddit (archived). Snopes readers also wrote in asking about the claim. However, while the New York Times article cited by social media users spreading claims about the alleged $934 million transfer was authentic, Snopes has not independently verified the document the New York Times said showed the alleged transfer. The article cited unnamed Air Force sources who reportedly "privately" conceded that the Air Force was using funds originally meant for the Sentinel land-based intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) project to pay for the renovation of the new Air Force One. Snopes has not been able to independently verify this information. A spokesperson said via email the Air Force could not confirm the details in the New York Times article. "Specific details related to this effort are classified," the spokesperson added. We reached out to the New York Times journalists who wrote the article to ask if they could share verifiable details about the alleged transfer such as the document mentioned in the article and await a reply. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the New York Times, the $934 million allegedly earmarked for refurbishing Trump's gifted Boeing 747 came as a "mysterious" transfer from what it described as "one of the Pentagon's most over-budget, out-of-control projects": the program to replace the U.S.'s Minuteman III ICBMs with Sentinel ICBMs. In 2024, the Pentagon estimated that project would cost $140.9 billion, 81% more than its original cost estimate of $77.7 billion. Land-based ICBMs are part of the "nuclear triad," three systems including submarines and bombers that can carry nuclear weapons. Air Force officials "privately acknowledge dipping into nuclear modernization funds for the complex project," according to the report, with "complex project" referring to the renovation of the gifted Boeing 747. On June 5, Air Force Secretary Troy Meink told a House Armed Services Committee that the renovation would likely cost "less than $400 million" despite numbers as high as $1 billion being "thrown around." Actual estimates, according to the New York Times, are classified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Snopes previously reported on the original offer from Qatar to gift the plane to the U.S. Department of Defense. We also reported on rumors that the Biden administration started negotiations for the plane or that former U.S. President Barack Obama received his own plane during his presidency. Sources: Lopez, C. Todd. "Sentinel Land-Based Nuclear Modernization Program Will Continue, With Changes." U.S. Department of Defense, 10 Jul. 2024, https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3834502/sentinel-land-based-nuclear-modernization-program-will-continue-with-changes/. @realDonaldTrump. "So the Fact That the Defense Department Is Getting a GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE." Truth Social, 12 May 2025, https://archive.ph/NJ1E6. Sanger, David E., and Eric Schmitt. "What Will It Cost to Renovate the 'Free' Air Force One? Don't Ask." The New York Times, 27 Jul. 2025, https://archive.ph/BLyal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Sentinel ICBM." Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, 28 Jul. 2025, https://www.afnwc.af.mil/Weapon-Systems/Sentinel-ICBM-LGM-35A/. U.S. House Armed Services Committee. "Full Committee Hearing: 'Department of the Air Force Fiscal Year 2026 Posture.'" YouTube, 5 Jun. 2025, https://www.youtube.com/live/CzE-SHKgPps?t=4901s. Updates: July 29, 2025: This report was updated to add comment from an Air Force spokesperson. By Tim Hepher and Sarah Young PARIS/LONDON (Reuters) -Boeing and Sweden's Saab are in talks with Britain's BAE Systems about teaming up on a future replacement of Britain's Hawk trainer in a growing niche of the fast jet industry, three people familiar with the matter said. Boeing and Saab have jointly developed the T-7 advanced trainer for the U.S. Air Force, while Britain has said it plans to replace its out-of-production Hawk fleet, part of which is instantly recognisable through its Red Arrows display team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Proposals are at an early stage and details are still to be worked out, with no guarantee that an agreement can be reached, one of the sources said. "We dont comment on rumour and speculation," said a spokesperson for BAE Systems, whose corporate predecessor developed the successful Hawk trainer in the early 1970s. "Training remains an important pillar of our air sector strategy. We continue to explore and develop our footprint in this area across both live and synthetic capabilities." A Saab spokesperson said: "We have a long-term partnership with Boeing on the co-development of T-7. Saab will not comment on rumours or speculation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boeing had no immediate comment. In June, a UK defence strategy review recommended that the Hawk be replaced, and the government said it would welcome interest from UK-based suppliers. BAE has said it has not decided whether to develop a new jet to replace the Hawk, whose production line closed in 2000. RED ARROWS It was not immediately clear whether any potential co-operation would be restricted to the UK contest or eventually seek to take advantage of BAE's incumbency in the wider export market, where over 1,000 Hawks have been sold to 18 nations. One of the sources said it was premature to think beyond the British competition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Demand for nimble trainers is rising. According to U.S.-based consultancy AeroDynamic Advisory, the market for military trainer aircraft is expected to rise to $3.7 billion in 2030 from $2.8 billion, excluding substantial related spending on support, sustainment and training services. Key suppliers include the Boeing-Saab T-7, Leonardo's Aermacchi M-346 and the Korea Aerospace Industries T-50 Golden Eagle. Aeralis, a privately owned early-stage British company, has designed a new jet trainer that it says could replace the Hawk. Some analysts have expressed concerns, however, that the case for an all-new fleet is being driven in part by Britain's Red Arrows, a diplomatic symbol abroad and a popular feature of royal events at home. Their jets are due to retire in 2030. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UK publication Defence Eye reported last week that Britain is looking at buying a first batch of new trainers over the next five years to replace the Red Arrows' Hawk T1s, followed by a larger second batch of T2 replacements in the late 2030s. "A major complicating factor is the need for the Red Arrows aircraft to be British-designed, or at least British-assembled, to allow the aircraft to act as a promotional tool for the UK aerospace industry," the report by UK defence expert Tim Ripley said. The choice of trainer also has potential implications in the bigger global market for fighter jets. Britain's defence committee has warned the T2 will not meet training requirements for future fighters envisaged by Britain, Japan and Italy known as the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Boeing and Saab, a UK sale would not only provide a key European market, but could potentially mean getting a toe-hold in the training requirements for GCAP and generate potential future trainer business from exports of the combat jet. For BAE, having a ready-made trainer could be one extra marketing point for its future combat jet system, Ripley said. "It would increase the value that you can export with GCAP," he told Reuters. On the other hand, analysts say BAE's existing Italian partner in GCAP, Leonardo, is likely to press the industrial and strategic case of its own M-346 as the GCAP trainer of choice. Leonardo could not immediately be reached for comment. (Reporting by Tim Hepher and Sarah Young, Additional reporting by Mike Stone; Editing by Susan Fenton and Jan Harvey) SARATOGA SPRINGS, Utah (ABC4) Last year, on Thanksgiving Day, one Saratoga Springs woman collapsed in cardiac arrest. Her family says her survival story is nothing short of miraculous. On Nov. 28, 2024, just before 12:30 p.m., Maggie Soward, 46, was preparing food with her husband, Scott Soward, at their home in Saratoga Springs when she suddenly collapsed and began twisting in a seizure. Maggies family quickly realized she had stopped breathing and had no pulse. EMTs with Saratoga Springs Fire & Rescue attempt to resuscitate Maggie Soward. (Courtesy//Scott Soward) It wasnt until I rolled her over and saw that her face was gray that I felt a shock of panic go through me of how serious the situation was, Scott told ABC4.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By happenstance, Maggies daughter, Eliza, 17, had just recertified in CPR, for the third time, just six days earlier. Eliza immediately began chest compressions. Emergency medical personnel quickly arrived on scene and took over doing chest compressions. EMTs took turns performing compressions and delivered three defibrillator shocks, the family said. Terrifying hyena attack leaves 10-year-old unable to see in one eye, Utah surgeon restores vision First responders worked to resuscitate Maggie for approximately 25 minutes before a pulse and breathing were regained, Saratoga Springs Fire & Rescue said in a social media post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Sowards son, Noah, 19, quickly began asking hundreds of people to pray for his mom saying, please pray for my mom, we think she just had a heart attack. The Soward family says Maggie was then rushed to Lehi Mountain Point Hospital where she was placed on a ventilator. Later that evening, she was moved to the Intensive Care Unit. Maggie Soward was immediately rushed to the hospital after EMTs were able to regain a pulse. (Courtesy//Scott Soward) Saratoga Springs woman is rushed to the hospital on Thanksgiving Day. (Courtesy//Scott Soward) Maggie Soward survives cardiac event on Thanksgiving Day. (Courtesy//Scott Soward) At that point our biggest fear was brain damage from lack of blood to the brain, Scott said. After multiple nights in the hospital, Maggie had endured a difficult stay, attempting to remove her breathing tube. However, her condition had drastically improved. We were all so happy that she was alive and without brain damage, Scott said. While Maggie was showing signs of spotty memory, she would regain most of it back within a few more days as multiple friends and family members came to visit her. Loved ones come to support Maggie after suffering a severe cardiac event. (Courtesy//Scott Soward) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Doctors told the Soward family that the apex of Maggies heart was not working, causing atrial fibrillation, or an irregular heart rhythm. Medical professionals is a serious medical condition that requires treatment to prevent a stroke. On Dec. 4, 2024, Maggie went into surgery to have a defibrillator implanted near the heart to monitor and regulate irregular heartbeats. The following day, she was finally able to go home. The medical team called it a 5% survival rate for what Maggie experienced, Scott added. EMTs reconnect with Eliza Soward (middle) after helping save Maggies life last Thanksgiving. (Courtesy//Scott Soward) We are so grateful to Eliza for quickly recognizing and taking action to provide chest compression on her mother. We attribute Maggies survival entirely to Elizas effort, Saratoga Springs Fire & Rescue said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Eliza was awarded a plaque by the City of Saratoga Springs for her efforts. Maggie is now doing really well, with very little residual damage from what happened, the Sowards told ABC4.com. Neighborhood friends send support to the Soward family during Maggies recovery from a heart attack, (Courtesy//Scott Soward) Scott says more than one miracle had to converge for his wife to make it. It was faith, family, community, and divine intervention working together to bring my wife, and our mother, back to us. The Soward family wishes to thank all who prayed, fasted, and helped in Maggies survival. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. 10th Circuit sides against oil, gas owners once again in long-running tax challenge The court suggested that agreeing with the mineral rights owners would mean only a single entity could challenge tax assessments in state court, while thousands could file suits in federal court Justices of the U.S. Supreme Court during a formal group photograph in Washington, D.C. in 2022. Seated from left: Associate Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Clarence Thomas, Chief Justice John Roberts, and Associate Justices Samuel Alito, and Elena Kagan. Standing from left: Associate Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Ketanji Brown Jackson. Credit - Alex WongGetty Images White House officials and a close circle of conservative lawyers are preparing for President Donald Trump to be able to hit the ground running if a Supreme Court vacancy opens up during the remaining three and a half years of his second term, according to sources inside and outside the White House. The discussions are in early stages and focus on finding a nominee in the mold of Samuel Alito, 75, and Clarence Thomas, 77, the two oldest justices, both of whom are considered stalwart conservative jurists who have taken narrow interpretations of the Constitutional text while backing an expansive view of Presidential power. Shortlists of judges are circulating among Trump allies as they debate who can be best trusted to stick with the Court's conservative wing during an appointment that could last decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are looking for people in the mold of Alito, Clarence Thomas and the late Scalia, said a White House official familiar with the process, referring to Justice Antonin Scalia, who died in 2016. The official said it was premature to say the White House was getting ready for a vacancy. Republicans currently control the Senate, which must confirm any nominee to the court. The party also controlled the Senate throughout Trumps first term, allowing Trump to appoint three JusticesNeil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett who were all well-regarded in conservative legal circles. Advisors close to Trump want to set the stage for the smoothest possible confirmation process and avoid the high drama of Kavanaughs hearings in 2018 that focused on allegations of sexual assault. Conservative lawyers around Trump are also feeling burned by a handful of recent decisions in which Barrett joined liberal members of the court and want to ensure the next nominee is someone who wont veer from the conservative bloc. Theres a lot of anger at Amy Coney Barrett coming from the MAGA movement, says Benjamin Wittes, editor in chief of Lawfare and a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. I think you can imagine a very different type of nominee than weve had from Trump in the past. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump will make the final decision on who to put forward for Senate confirmation, says a White House official. Key players in his administration who would be involved in vetting candidates would be Attorney General Pam Bondi, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, White House Counsel David Warrington and Steve Kenny, the deputy White House counsel for nominations. Mike Davis, a conservative lawyer and bare-knuckle Trump defender, is also expected to be an influential voice in the process. Justice Thomas and Justice Alito are irreplaceable and I hope they do not retire anytime soon, Davis tells TIME. Just in case, Davis says he has given the Trump White House a short list of bold and fearless nominees for the Supreme Court, and should there be a vacancy, he plans to play an outside supporting role to the White House efforts. Davis, who is founder of the Article III project, a conservative judicial advocacy group, would not confirm which names are on his list. I have provided my recommended list to the President and his team and I am not going to discuss that list with anyone other than them, says Davis. He stressed that the President and the President alone will decide his judicial nominees. Two people familiar with the White House vetting process said that the current front runners for a potential Supreme Court vacancy are Andrew Oldham, a 5th circuit judge in Texas, and Neomi Rao, who sits on the influential District of Columbia Circuit Court. Oldham was previously general counsel for Texas Governor Greg Abbott and clerked for Justice Alito. Rao, whose parents are from India, would be the first Asian-American justice on the Supreme Court, and only the seventh woman. Rao clerked for Justice Thomas earlier in her career. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas hugs his former clerk, Neomi Rao, at her investiture ceremony for the US Court of Appeals, in Washington, DC. Bill O'LearyThe Washington Post via Getty Images Davis has also previously floated the name of Aileen Cannon, the judge on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida who ruled favorably for Trump when he was being investigated for keeping classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago Club. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other conservative judges considered potential contenders for Trump to name are James Ho, another judge on Texass 5th circuit, and two judges in Ohios 6th circuitRaymond M. Kethledge and Amul R. Thapar. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative Washington-based think tank thats best known for spearheading Project 2025, is also expected to work to influence Trumps decision. John Malcolm, vice president of Heritages Institute for Constitutional Government, can list off the top of his head more than 10 current circuit court judges he thinks would make strong justices on the nations highest court. Malcolm also believes Senator Mike Lee of Utah, a former assistant U.S. attorney who clerked for Alito, would be an excellent choice. While Lee isnt a sitting judge, he isnt afraid to speak his mind, says Malcolm, who adds that Lee has a track record of legislation and books that show hes a textualist and originalist. Trump entered his second term having already helped cement a conservative majority for a generation through the installation of three nominees. In recent months, that court has upheld Trumps consolidation of power as President and bolstered his larger project to tilt the countrys public policy to the right. In June, the Court limited the ability of judges to block Trumps policies nationwide and paved the way for the Administration to move forward with deporting immigrants to locations other than their home countries without additional due process requirements imposed by a district court judge During Trumps first term, he relied heavily on recommendations from the powerful conservative legal group The Federalist Society for his judicial nominations. That process produced a group of academically-minded conservative thinkers on the court that overturned the nationwide abortion protections in Roe v. Wade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump will likely be looking for a different standard this time around, says Wittes, the editor of Lawfare, an online publication that closely follows the Supreme Court. I assume the competition here would be to have shown greatest loyalty to Trump, Wittes says. I think one would worry that this person would be guided by loyalty rather than guided by something like principle. Contact us at letters@time.com. Schools with a majority of Black students those who fell the furthest behind during the pandemic are making small gains in performance, according to the latest results of a widely-used national assessment. In eighth grade reading, the percentage of students on grade level or above in those schools grew at three percentage points over last year from 36% to 39%. In math, the percentage of fourth graders on track in majority-Black schools grew from 36% to almost 40%, the latest i-Ready assessments from Curriculum Associates found. Those are bright spots in a snapshot that otherwise shows recovery has remained stagnant five years following the pandemic, said Kristen Huff, head of measurement at Curriculum Associates. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter Black students had a bigger dip, especially in the early grades, so they have more room to catch up, she said. But generally, performance has plateaued and theres still a long way to go to reach 2018-19 levels. I think we have to hold ourselves accountable to at least that bar, but thats not the end goal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 2024-25 data, shared exclusively with The 74, represents almost 12 million K-8 students in reading and more than 13 million in math who took the i-Ready tests during the last school year. Unlike the National Assessment of Educational Progress, the i-Ready adjusts questions to students level. The prompts are more advanced if kids are working above the benchmark and easier if theyre below, offering teachers a view, Huff said, of how much progress students need to make to catch up. Nearly half of fifth graders, for example, are on grade level in reading, while 29% are two grade levels or more below, the results show. The picture is similar in math, with 53% on target and 20% far behind. While students are learning, theyre not mastering as much material as their peers did before COVID. Learning loss is more pronounced in the younger grades, confirming that even those students who were too young to attend school were affected by the disruption. Multiple studies have shown that economic hardship and fewer opportunities to socialize left young children less prepared for school. In reading, 60% of first graders those who were toddlers during the early years of the pandemic are on grade level. Thats down from 68% in 2018-19. The blue bars show the percentage of students on grade level or above, while the orange bars show the percentage at least two grade levels below. (Curriculum Associates) Slight improvement Majority-Black schools, however, were well behind majority-white schools before COVID by roughly 20 percentage points. Their scores also saw a steeper drop off after the pandemic. About a year after the pandemic, McKinsey &Company, a consulting firm, used i-Ready data to show that students in majority-Black schools were a full year behind those in predominantly white schools, an increase of three months over the prior achievement gap. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Black students were often at the lowest achievement levels in many districts, said Kareem Weaver, co-founder of Fulcrum, an Oakland, Calif.-based nonprofit that provides literacy expertise to school districts. It makes you wonder what was happening before for students to be at a level where even slight improvement is considered noteworthy. Related Students in Majority Black Schools Now a Full 12 Months Behind White Peers If students dont acquire strong reading skills and basic math facts in elementary school, they wont be able to keep up with more challenging assignments, said Ameenah Poole, who worked as a high school administrator in East Orange, New Jersey, until 2022. Her former colleagues, she said, often wondered why students came to them as struggling readers and lacking proficiency in math. These foundational skills are paramount, said Poole, now principal of Ecole Toussaint Louverture Elementary in the district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a school already not meeting expectations under the states accountability system, the pandemic just put kids further behind. Many parents in the 84% Black school have jobs in the service industry. Some are nurses, one drives an Amazon truck, Poole said, and most parents didnt work from home when schools went remote. A lot of students didnt even log in to class, and rebuilding attendance routines has been slow and sometimes futile, she said. The culture during the pandemic and post-pandemic [was] that school was an option, she said. We say, If you miss a day, you miss a lot. Students have to be here in order for us to teach them. Bianca Rouse, left, a teacher at Ecole Toussaint Louverture Elementary, met with a parent to discuss test data. (Ecole Toussaint Louverture Elementary) On New Jerseys state test, 19% of third graders met the standards in reading in 2022. Thats the same year the district began using i-Ready. Students work on skills like phonics and vocabulary or measurement and geometry in 40-minute blocks every week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At first, the extra instruction didnt translate into higher scores. In fourth grade, the percentage of students reaching the proficient level actually fell to 11%. But when those same students were fifth graders in 2024, Poole began to see the payoff. Thirty-five percent met or exceeded the goal. That still means the majority of students are working below grade level, which the i-Ready data also shows. Student learning is moving in the right direction, said Huff with Curriculum Associates, but its not accelerating fast enough. In first and fourth grade, students showed more growth from fall (light blue) to spring (dark blue) before the pandemic than they do now. (Curriculum Associates) The way the i-Ready results are reported, however, could be hiding some improvement, suggested Dan Goldhaber, director of the Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Identifying the total percentage above and below the threshold doesnt capture those students who may have moved up a level or two over time. Districts are far from full recovery, he wrote in an analysis of assessment data from 28 states. But he concluded that $190 billion in COVID relief, the largest-ever one-time infusion of federal funds for schools, contributed to a significant increase in math performance during the 2022-23 school year. Related Research: Learning Recovery Has Stalled, Despite Billions in Pandemic Aid Mark Sullivan, superintendent of the Birmingham City schools in Alabama, saw evidence of that in his district. I told the teachers, You [will] have to teach like youve never taught before, meaning that we had to make up multiple grades within a year because of unfinished learning, he said. Students in third, fifth and seventh grade in the Birmingham City schools outpaced the state in math recovery after the pandemic. (Curriculum Associates) A 2024 Curriculum Associates case study showed that Birmingham, where 89% of students are Black and 86% qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, outpaced the state in math recovery after the pandemic. The Educational Opportunity Project at Stanford University highlighted the district for the same reason. Leaders rearranged the calendar so that at the end of every nine-week session, students had a week off. But teachers provided optional instruction during that open week. About 7,000 students participated when they didnt have to come to school, Sullivan said. Were seeing the fruits of that. By Bianca Flowers CHICAGO (Chicago) -The Trump administration has terminated more than half of all federal funding for gun violence prevention programs in the U.S., cutting $158 million in grants that had been directed to groups in cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington, DC, and Baltimore. Of the 145 community violence intervention (CVI) grants totaling more than $300 million awarded through the U.S. Department of Justice, 69 grants were abruptly terminated in April, according to government data analyzed by Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The elimination of CVI programs is part of a broader rollback at the department's grant-issuing Office of Justice Programs, which terminated 365 grants valued at $811 million in April, impacting a range of public safety and victim services programs. A DOJ official told Reuters the gun violence grants were eliminated because they "no longer effectuate the program's goals or agency's priorities." Thousands of Office of Justice Programs grants are under review, the official said, and are being evaluated, among other things, on how well they support law enforcement and combat violent crime. The majority of CVI grants were originally funded through the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and part of a push by former President Joe Biden to stem the rise of gun violence in America, including establishing the first White House Office for Gun Violence Prevention. That office was "dismantled on day one" of Trump taking office, said former deputy director of the office, Greg Jackson Jr.. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior to the Biden-era funding, most gun violence prevention programs were funded on the state level. "These programs five years ago, if they did exist, had very small budgets and didn't have large, multimillion-dollar federal investments," said Michael-Sean Spence, managing director of community safety initiatives at Everytown for Gun Safety, which has worked with 136 community-based violence intervention organizations since 2019. Twenty-five of the groups were impacted by funding cuts. The grants supported a wide range of CVI programming to prevent shootings such as training outreach teams to de-escalate and mediate conflict, social workers to connect people to services and employment, and hospital-based programs for gun violence victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "[It's] preventing them from doing the work in service of those that need it the most at the most urgent, and deadliest time of the year," Spence said, referring to summer months when there's typically an uptick in shootings. Gun violence deaths in the U.S. grew more than 50% from 2015 to the pandemic-era peak of 21,383 in 2021, according to the Gun Violence Archive. Since then, deadly shootings have been in decline, falling to 16,725 in 2024, which is more in line with the pre-pandemic trend. As of May 2025, deaths are down 866 from the same period last year. DEFUNDED PROGRAMS While cities like New York City, Chicago and Los Angeles received the bulk of gun violence prevention funding, southern cities like Memphis, Selma, Alabama and Baton Rouge, Louisiana also received millions and were more reliant on the grants due to limited state support for the programs, experts told Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Very few state legislatures are passing funding right now, that's why the federal cuts were such a tragic hit," said Amber Goodwin, co-founder of Community Violence Legal Network, who's part of a coalition of lawyers working to get grants reinstated. Nearly a dozen interviews with legal experts, gun violence interventionists, and former DOJ officials said funding cuts threaten the long-term sustainability of community violence intervention initiatives that have taken years to establish and are embedded in predominantly Black and Latino communities. Pha'Tal Perkins founded Think Outside Da Block in 2016, a nonprofit based in Chicago's violence-plagued Englewood neighborhood. Federal funding allowed him to hire full-time staff, but when grants were stripped, he was forced to lay off five team members. "Being able to have outreach teams at specific places at the right time to have conversations before things get out of hand is what people don't see," Perkins said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The programs initiated in 2022 marked the first time grassroots organizations could apply for federal community violence prevention funding directly, without going through law enforcement or state intermediaries, according to three former DOJ officials. Aqeela Sherrills, co-founder of Community Based Public Safety Collective in Los Angeles, provided training on implementing violence intervention strategies to nearly 94 grantees, including states, law enforcement agencies, and community-based organizations. Prior to the cuts, "we were onboarding 30 new grantees through the federal government. Many of these cities and law enforcement agencies have no idea how to implement CVI," Sherrills said. POLICE SUPPORT Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some critics of CVI argue that the programs aren't effective and that federal dollars would be better spent on law enforcement to stymie gun violence. Others view the initiatives as inherently "anti-gun" and are "nothing more than a funnel to send federal tax dollars to anti-gun non-profits who advocate against our rights," said Aidan Johnston, federal affairs director of the Gun Owners of America. That view is not universally shared by law enforcement, however. In June, a letter signed by 18 law enforcement groups and police chiefs in Louisville, Minneapolis, Tucson and Omaha called on Attorney General Pam Bondi to reinstate funding that has resulted in "measurable and significant reductions in violence and homicides." "These aren't feel-good programs; theyre lifesaving, law-enforcement-enhancing strategies that work," they wrote. Columbia, South Carolina Deputy Police Chief Melron Kelly, who was unaware of the letter, told Reuters that CVI programs were relatively new in the city, but as a result, the police began collaborating more with community organizations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kelly said Columbia's CVI programs focused on preventing retaliatory shootings that can escalate a neighborhood conflict. "Public safety really starts in the neighborhood before police get involved. CVI work is very important; we've seen a drastic reduction in violent crime post-COVID and shootings are almost at a 10-year low," Kelly said. Now, organizations are trying to figure out how to keep the doors open now that federal money has run dry. Durell Cowan, executive director of HEAL 901, a community violence prevention nonprofit in Memphis, received a $1.7 million CVI grant in October 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cowan's organization received $150,000 in federal funds since the beginning of the year before his grant was canceled. He's had to dip into his personal savings to keep his 14-person staff on payroll, he said. Recently, he secured funding from an out-of-state nonprofit as well as a $125,000 emergency grant from the city. Still, he may be forced to conduct layoffs if federal government dollars don't start flowing again. We shouldn't be pulling from our own personal finances and life insurance policies to cover the cost of public safety, he said. (Reporting by Bianca Flowers in Chicago. Editing by Kat Stafford and Michael Learmonth) Just three weeks after the Justice Department insisted there was nothing more to disclose about the yearsold criminal case against the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, calls for more answers have only grown louder. Congress has now opened its own investigation, while some MAGA leaders are accusing the Trump administration of hiding the truth. At the same time, new reports about Trumps long friendship with Epstein are fueling questions about what the president knew and when. As the president tries to distance himself, the renewed spotlight on the disgraced financier feels deeply personal and painfully triggering for some survivors like Jess Michaels. In an exclusive interview with Katie Couric, Michaels shared that seeing Epsteins name back in the headlines has deeply affected her mental and physical health. Its been excruciating and its not just his name, its seeing his face, she says. What that looks like is constant anxiety, insomnia, inability to eat, which then weakens my body, brain fog, creating limited mental and physical capacity. I have to really pace out my energy so that I can get work done, she adds. Luckily, my team understands that I have post-traumatic stress disorder from this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michaels story is part of a far longer and darker history of abuse one that began decades before Epstein ever faced public accusations. In March 2005, a 14yearold girl accused the New York financier of sexually molesting her at his Palm Beach home. That case became the first of dozens of allegations and ultimately exposed years of sex trafficking and exploitation of underage girls, leading to Epsteins 2019 arrest. But Michaels says Epstein raped her much earlier, in 1991, when she was a 22yearold professional dancer. She had been introduced to him by a former roommate, Christine, who told her Epstein was training her in massage a common side hustle among dancers. [Christine] was telling me how this man wasnt just paying her to train as a massage therapist, but also flying her around the world on his private plane, Michaels recalls. She said, Yeah, we go to Europe for a week. I do two or three massages, and then the rest of the time is mine. He knows Im a dancer, so I can audition whenever I want, and if I get a dance contract, hes fine with it. Its the dream job. When Michaels first arrived at Epsteins penthouse, she was startled to find him wearing only a white robe, which he quickly removed. Trying to stay professional, she began the massage, but when he told her to take off her clothes, she felt she had no choice but to do as he said. In that moment, she says, her body went numb and her mind grew hazy. It was like I was falling back and trying to get back to myself, she recounts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the assault, Epstein abruptly stood, pulled a few hundreddollar bills from his robe, tossed them on the table, and told her to call his assistant to book another appointment. I couldnt believe what had just happened, she remembers. He walked out, leaving me alone to get dressed. I remember picking up the money it felt so disgusting. The next day, she confided in her friend Joanne, who, years later, encouraged her to share her story publicly after news broke of Epsteins abuse of other women. But at the time, Michaels felt certain no one would believe her. I remember thinking, wait a minute whos going to believe me? A 22yearold dancer over Jeffrey Epstein, she says. The assault left her with lasting scars that changed the course of her life. I cannot tell you how devastating it is to be that age where youre launching into your life and going from infinite amounts of confidence and bravado and probably a lot of ego at 22, she says. And I turned into what? I turned into a mouse of a girl. Over time, though, Michaels found her voice. Today, she hopes to support other women whove been in her position. She has become an advocate and founded 3Joannes, which is preparing to launch the #WithYouToo social safety app a tool designed to help people support survivors in the critical aftermath of an assault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everyone thinks, Oh, its for survivors. And I say, No, its for everyone else. Its for everyone else to understand whats happening in the first 24 to 72 hours whats happening in that first week to two weeks afterward, she explains. Watch the full interview to find out what Michaels thinks is in the Epstein files and how shes protecting herself during this relentless news cycle. The post Its Been Excruciating: Survivor Jess Michaels Speaks Out as Epstein Files Controversy Reopens Wounds appeared first on Katie Couric Media. Eleven former executives of major corporations were recently sentenced to a combined 141 years in prison for their part in one of Europe's largest groundwater contamination of forever chemicals. What happened? The individuals worked for companies linked to Miteni SpA, whose parent company is Mitsubishi Corp. Bloomberg reported on the sentencing from an Italian court, explaining that Miteni had made products containing PFAS at its factory near Vicenza from the 1960s until 2018, when it declared bankruptcy. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are known as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company is alleged to have discharged these chemicals via wastewater, contaminating groundwater and soil across the region. Around 350,000 people were affected by contaminated groundwater and tap water, local officials said. The ruling "was welcomed with satisfaction by public bodies and the many associations present in the courtroom," the local municipal authority of Vicenza said in a statement, according to Bloomberg. Why is this ruling important? Over the last few years, a number of reports have shed light on the widespread impacts of PFAS. These dangerous compounds, which have long been used in consumer products such as nonstick cookware and water-resistant clothing, have contaminated water bodies and soil across the globe. For instance, researchers in New Mexico recently announced they had discovered the highest PFAS concentrations of any place in the world at a local lake, and they are worried about the effects this contamination may have on local wildlife and hunters who have consumed poisoned animals. And one study found these chemicals all over the Great Lakes Basin, including in air, rain, and water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Americans have already been exposed to PFAS and have it in their blood, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. So far, these chemicals have been linked to health concerns such as decreased fertility, increased risk of cancer, and reduced ability of the body's immune system to fight infections. What's being done about PFAS? Many local governments are cracking down on PFAS. For instance, Oregon recently announced it has added six PFAS compounds to its list of regulated contaminants and will begin creating limitations to prevent residents' exposure to them. Meanwhile, Massachusetts and Connecticut have banned the sale of firefighting equipment containing these chemicals. Scientists are also discovering ways to get the chemicals out of our water. For instance, one University of Illinois team discovered a way to remove the full spectrum of PFAS from water in a single process. You can help reduce your exposure by choosing to buy from PFAS-free brands, opting for nonstick cookware, and limiting your purchases of stain- and water-resistant clothing. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. An Instagram user did not mince words when they took to the platform to share their thoughts on an invasive plant in California. The video posted by Jessie Dickson (@sacramentofoodforest) discusses the harmful impact of invasive Tasmanian blue gum eucalyptus trees in California. Whatever aesthetic value the trees have is gravely overshadowed by their downsides. The caption reads, "Eucalyptus oil is extremely flammable, making it by far the biggest wildfire threat in the state of California." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jessie shows footage of the trees lining the freeways and decries the "invasive b*******." They note that the trees pose a danger to drivers, "fall everywhere," and "kill native plants." The clip ends with a few choice expletives against their continued presence in the state. As the video points out, the trees aren't native to California but to Australia. According to KQED, their presence in California dates back to the 19th century. The trees arrived in the Golden State in the 1850s, when Australians came for the Gold Rush. They thrived as non-native plants often do, outcompeting native species and addressing a lumber shortage. The deadly Oakland Hills firestorm of 1991 spread rapidly due to the oily interior of the trees. Even in their native range, they're sometimes called "gasoline on a tree." With extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe, the risks posed to wildlife by these trees are increasing. However, any attempts to remove the trees and replace them with native plants could encounter resistance. In 2015, protesters in Berkeley stripped naked to prevent their removal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, the comments on the post reflect this impasse. One user said, "Eucalyptus is invasive and should be gotten rid of." Another humorously added, "Who else drives by them and flips them off?" However, others weren't convinced. "I've always loved eucalyptus, and I always will," one user commented. "They smell so good!!!" said another. Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. The best way to support native plants is to do so at home. A rewilded yard not only boosts critical pollinators, but it's also a heck of a lot easier to maintain. Similarly, upgrading a dull, water-guzzling grass lawn to a natural lawn saves money and effort while helping the local ecosystem. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Researchers at the University of Florida have developed and launched 40 solar-powered robot bunnies to target invasive pythons in the state. The mechanical rabbits mimic the pythons' real prey and can notify researchers when the giant snakes approach them, helping scientists as they work to eliminate the pythons in a targeted effort to preserve the Florida Everglades ecosystem. As USA Today reported, these fake bunnies are the latest effort to control Burmese pythons terrorizing the Everglades. The bunnies are equipped with motors and heaters to resemble the movements and temperatures of real rabbits in the wild. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Studies have revealed that pythons are attracted to live rabbits, which helps researchers collect them once they are lured in. However, using robotic rabbits is more humane and requires less labor to care for them. This technological development has the potential to help conservationists curb the pythons' population and protect the local ecosystem they have invaded. Burmese pythons are an issue in Florida because they aren't native to the region and have contributed to population declines of many other animals. Raccoons, bobcats, foxes, opossums, and marsh and cottontail rabbit populations have suffered because of the pythons. Even worse, the pythons have been migrating further north as temperatures continue to warm with our steadily changing climate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Florida officials have tried various solutions to control the pythons, including the use of near-infrared cameras and traps. There is also an annual hunting challenge that encourages people to capture and kill the pythons for cash rewards. The robotic bunny project adds to this python removal momentum and gives conservationists hope that the invasive species can be controlled. Experts believe that fake bunnies can entice pythons to emerge from their hiding places without requiring proactive search. "It could be a bit of a game changer," said district invasive animal biologist Mike Kirkland. In other areas, robotic dogs have been effective in controlling invasive fire ants. Robots can also help manage insect populations and pollinate crops in the absence of dwindling bee colonies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At your own home, you can help prevent the spread of invasive species by rewilding your yard with native plants that support the local ecosystem. You can also participate in community efforts to manage invasive species that impact your local area. In South Florida, ecology experts have already placed robo-bunnies in various areas for testing. They are keeping the robots' locations quiet so that people don't tamper with them. Looking ahead, they plan to add realistic, bunny-like scents to the fake animals to deceive the snakes further. Florida state officials remain open to new ideas and experimentation in all possible ways to eradicate pythons from the region. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Its a dreadful reality of living in America (or, honestly, the world) right now that there are, and likely will be more, mass shootings. Though it may be impossible to predict where and when theyll occur and the odds are still very small that youll encounter one security experts have some basic safety tips that can help you prepare for the unlikely but horrific situation. During an active shooter situation, it is estimated that law enforcement response time may be between five to six minutes. And on average, an active shooter situation lasts anywhere between five to eight minutes, said Steve Guerrero, director of security for the nonprofit Green Dot Public Schools in Los Angeles. So saving your life may be up to you. No one should ever have to fear for their safety in a bar, a place of worship, an exercise class or any other ordinary location. But a little knowledge hopefully knowledge that you never have to use can be beneficial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HuffPost talked with the experts on what they want everyone to know about potential or active shooter situations, including steps to take when something seems off and other useful protection measures. Police officers gather in a street as they respond to a shooting incident in the midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York on July 28, 2025. China News Service via Getty Images 1. Be aware. It sounds basic but sometimes the most obvious points are the most crucial. Put down your phone and tune in to your surroundings. In security, we often refer to the phrase situational awareness, being aware of our situation wherever we are, said Brent OBryan, corporate vice president of training and organizational effectiveness at Allied Universal, a private North American security company. When you first walk into a building, OBryan recommends getting your bearings and taking inventory of your surroundings: Notice the people in the room, the layout of the venue, where the nearest exits are and whether anything appears off. 2. Make a brief, mental what if plan ahead of time. People have to unfortunately have the mindset these days that when you walk into anywhere, something bad can happen and you have to begin to mentally prepare yourself with the what if scenario, said Mike Zimet, owner of New York-based executive protection company Mike Zimet Protective Services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If used correctly, that strategy could potentially save somebodys life. We use the what-if scenario in protection all the time, Zimet said. What if this happens? What would you do with the person you are protecting? How would you evacuate them? This type of thinking, he added, trains you to be a lot more diligent in looking for exits or a safe room where you can shelter. Take a few minutes to put an escape plan into place when you first arrive at a venue, he suggested, and then go back to enjoying the evening. 3. Know what to look for. When taking inventory of a place or scenario, be on the lookout for anything that appears suspicious. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The biggest red flag is somebody appearing out of place by their clothing they are dressed for the winter in the summer or by their actions, Zimet said. Actions to watch for include leaving a suspicious package behind or behaving uncharacteristically for the setting. 4. Dont be afraid to report something suspicious. Be aware of your neighbors, peoples activity on social media, and dont be afraid to share your concerns, OBryan said. If something seems suspicious, you shouldnt assume that somebody else is going to call it in or otherwise report it. Make the call yourself. We need to do better as a society with having that courage to step in when we see something that doesnt seem right, OBryan said. Law enforcement would rather have us be more proactive in sharing leads and concerns so they can say, OK, thats not a concern or That is a concern than have us thinking, That looks suspicious but Im not sure if it is so Im just going to hold back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trust your gut instinct when something niggles at the back of your mind that something is wrong, added Robert Sollars, a security consultant based in Phoenix with 35 years experience in the industry. Too many people ignore those feelings even though they could save lives, Sollars said. 5. Try to remain as calm as possible. Focus on breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth as you take action. Remaining calm and focused can mean the difference between life and death, Guerrero said, adding that a heightened state of panic may impair your judgment and ability to make sound decisions when time is of the essence. Matt Harden, a SWAT team member and owner of the San Francisco Bay Area company OpTempo Training Group, which provides active shooter training, noted that staying calm also helps people to not alert the shooter to their location. 6. Run if youre able to. In a situation involving an active shooter, your immediate move should be to get out of the building if you can safely do so. And once you are through the door, dont stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Keep going and get as far away from the line of fire as you can, Zimet said. Dont assume that youre safe once outside just because the gunfire is happening inside. Many gunmen go in through front door. The same way they went in shooting, they can come out shooting. So if you are lingering outside, you could find yourself back in the line of fire, Zimet warned. Even though it might be your first instinct, OBryan said you should not stop to dial 911 before running. Get to safety and then make that call. To stop and make that call immediately, you are risking yourself and youve gotten rid of a few seconds you could be using to get somewhere safely to make the call, he said. 7. Hide if you need to. If you cant get safely to an exit and out the door, your second choice is to hide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Law enforcement will arrive quickly and if you cant run, then your next best option is to hide and wait for them to arrive, OBryan said. Once you are hidden and secure, remain quiet and still. Hiding is not the time to get on your phone, OBryan added. If you have that opportunity and you truly think you are safe, you can reach out to 911, but you want to be very careful. Especially in a dark situation, you want to maintain the darkness. You dont want to have your phone on to give you away. Zimet recommended concealing yourself behind the hardest object possible so as to shield yourself from bullets. OBryan also suggested looking for a room with a door that you can lock from the inside, if possible. 8. Stay hidden for the long haul. Once hidden, dont come out until law enforcement arrives and announces that they are ready to escort you out. Dont try to determine when its safe to emerge on your own accord. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youre hiding and still in the building when law enforcement arrives, be prepared for officers with rifles entering to deal with the threat, Harden said, adding that its crucial you stay where you are and not try to run over to them even if youre injured. You can call out to them but they will find you, he said. Follow their commands. Officers are entering a very uncertain, chaotic scene and will be focused on clearing the entire structure to ensure there are no additional shooters or threats. The initial officers may bypass injured people asking for help until the scene is secure. But they will return to render aid and evacuate, Harden said. 9. Get low to the ground. If you cant run away or find a hiding space, or youre out in the open, youll want to get as low as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Duck down to the floor and try to put yourself in a fetal position because that reduces the amount of target that somebody is targeting at, Zimet said. Dropping to the ground can also help to get you out of the line of sight of an active shooter and reduce your chances of getting hit by gunfire. The more you reduce your size and your target, the better chance you have of surviving, said Zimet. 10. Fight back only as a last resort. Your safety comes first. Attempting to stop an active shooter is only advised if they are extremely close to you and you cannot take any of the above safety steps, Zimet said. Basically, only try this if its your sole option. Do not run across a huge distance to the attacker and hop into their line of sight in the process, he said, noting that if you do attack, your focus should be on lunging at the person and going after the weapon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attacker will not be expecting an attack from a victim so the bigger, louder and more violent you can be, the more you will disrupt their train of thought. If you have a group of people, even better, said Tammy Johnson, CEO of Bravo1 Protection, an event security service in South Carolina. 11. Finally, curb your curiosity. If a shooting happens in your neighborhood and you are not actively caught in the situation, remain a safe distance away. Louis Perry, the owner and executive vice president of Los Angeles-based Kadina Security who has provided security for politicians, former presidents and other high-profile individuals, said that often someone shoots a gun and people actually run toward the sound of the gunfire to see whats going on. Its human nature to be curious but you dont want to do that, Perry said. I know it sounds silly to say this but if somebody shoots a gun, you want to run away from the gunfire. So if there is a shooting in your area, remain inside, keep your doors locked and wait until you are given the all-clear from officers to leave your premises. Related... By Olivia Le Poidevin and Jennifer Rigby GENEVA (Reuters) -A global hunger monitor said on Tuesday that a famine scenario was unfolding in the Gaza Strip, with malnutrition soaring, children under five dying of hunger-related causes and humanitarian access severely restricted. We examine what needs to be done to reverse the crisis. WHAT IS BEING SENT IN AND HOW? Israel said on Sunday it would halt military operations for 10 hours a day in parts of Gaza and designate secure routes for convoys delivering food and medicine between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, says 500-600 trucks a day are needed to prevent more of the 2.1 million population people starving. Since the announcement, over 100 truckloads of aid have been transported into Gaza, according to the U.N. The World Food Program said that only half of the 100 trucks it hoped to get in daily had been allowed in, and it had not been able to reopen the lifeline bakeries and community kitchens that closed in May due to shortages. TREATING ACUTE MALNUTRITION More than 20,000 children were admitted to hospital with severe malnutrition between April and mid-July, according to the hunger monitor, Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.N. children's charity UNICEF is focusing on urgent delivery of Ready-To-Use-Therapeutic-Foods, including dense peanut paste and high-energy biscuits, which the acutely malnourished require before they can start eating normal food. Babies under six months need a therapeutic formula that works similarly to the paste. UNICEF says these special foods are set to run out by mid-August. Malnourished children often suffer complications that require antibiotics - something else that the WHO says is running out. Acutely malnourished children can usually recover within 8-10 weeks, experts say. For children under 2, who may have been malnourished during critical brain development, full recovery is harder to achieve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In all cases, long-term access to nutritious foods such as fruit, vegetables and meat is essential for full recovery, requiring commercial supplies to resume, UNICEF says. AID BOXES AND AIRDROPS The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a private U.S.- and Israeli-backed group, said it has distributed over 96 million meals since late May, in boxes of staples such as rice, flour, pasta, tuna, beans, biscuits and cooking oil. However, most of these need to be cooked, and the IPC report noted that clean water and fuel are largely unavailable in Gaza. Israel says it will allow airdrops of food, and Jordan and the United Arab Emirates parachuted 25 tons into Gaza on Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet it is widely acknowledged that the only effective way to meet Gaza's needs is by truck. Airdrops are many times more expensive and UNICEF notes they feed the first to arrive, not those in most need. DANGERS IN DISTRIBUTION Ways must be found to get aid safely to the right recipients. U.N. data gathered between May 19, when Israel lifted its blockade, and July 25 shows that only about one in eight of the 2,010 truckloads of relief collected from crossing points under the U.N.-led aid operation reached its destination. The rest were looted, "either peacefully by hungry people or forcefully by armed actors during transit". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An internal U.S. government analysis found no evidence of systematic theft by the Palestinian militant group Hamas of U.S.-funded humanitarian supplies, and the U.N. refuses to cooperate with GHF, Israel's chosen aid provider. But deliveries by the GHF have, if anything, been more dangerous. The U.N. estimates that Israeli forces have killed more than 1,000 people seeking food supplies, most of them near the militarised distribution sites of the GHF, which employs a U.S. logistics firm run by a former CIA officer and armed U.S. veterans. GHF denies that there have been deadly incidents at its sites, and says the deadliest have been near other aid convoys. The Israeli military has acknowledged that civilians have been harmed by its gunfire near distribution centres, and says its forces have now received better instructions. (Reporting by Olivia Le Poidevin in Geneva and Jennifer Rigby in London; additional reporting by Michelle Nichols in New York and Nidal Al Mughrabi in Cairo; edited by Tom Perry in Beirut and Kevin Liffey) LONDON (Reuters) -Britain has said it will formally recognise a Palestinian state in September unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end suffering in Gaza and meets other conditions. WHAT DID PRIME MINISTER KEIR STARMER SAY? He said Britain would make the move at the United Nations General Assembly unless Israel agreed to certain conditions. Those were: - a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - substantive steps to allow more aid to enter the Gaza Strip - a clear declaration there will be no annexation of the Israeli-occupied West Bank - a commitment to a long-term peace process that delivers a "two-state solution" - a Palestinian state co-existing in peace alongside Israel Starmer said there was "no equivalence between Israel and Hamas and that our demands on Hamas remain, that they must release all the hostages, sign up to a ceasefire, accept that they will play no role in the government of Gaza, and disarm". WHY DID STARMER DO THIS? Successive British governments have said they will formally recognise a Palestinian state when the time is right and when it will be most effective to support a two-state solution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until Tuesday, the government had said it was more focused on improving the situation on the ground for civilians stricken by the conflict than recognition. But Starmer has become increasingly vocal over the starvation and devastation in Gaza, and has been under pressure to act from lawmakers in his Labour Party. Britain hopes its move will have a practical impact on Israel's behaviour, initially by increasing the flow of aid, but also by reviving the diplomatic push for a two-state solution. WHAT WILL THIS MEAN IN PRACTICE? The move carries great diplomatic and moral weight, even if it is mostly symbolic, according to Julie Norman, an associate professor at University College London specialising in Middle Eastern politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most immediate impact may be an upgrading of diplomatic relations with the Palestinians, according to one British government official. Britain currently hosts a Palestinian mission of officials in London, but the recognition of a Palestinian state means it may be allowed open a fully fledged embassy. The official said Britain could eventually open an embassy in the West Bank, where the Western-backed Palestinian Authority exercises limited self-government under Israeli military occupation. The PA seeks the West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem for a future state. Hamas has refused to recognise Israel and the group's 1988 founding charter calls for its destruction. Vincent Fean, a former British consul general to Jerusalem, said recognition of Palestine as a state would result in the government having to review its relations with Israel. This, he said, could result in Britain banning products from Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That would only be symbolic in that sense that those goods are a pinprick in the overall size of the Israeli economy," he said. What is currently unclear is the impact recognition would have on the close intelligence and security ties between Britain and Israel, including defence-related supply chains. Israel's response to Starmer's announcement was immediate and furious. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it rewarded Hamas and punished the victims of their 2023 cross-border attack on Israel. Asked about that criticism, British Transport Minister Heidi Alexander - designated by the government to respond to questions in a series of media interviews on Wednesday - said it was not the right way to characterise Britain's plan. "This is not a reward for Hamas. Hamas is a vile terrorist organisation that has committed appalling atrocities. This is about the Palestinian people. It's about those children that we see in Gaza who are starving to death," Alexander told LBC radio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HOW COULD THIS AFFECT US-UK RELATIONS? Starmer has been building warm relations with U.S. President Donald Trump. The two leaders met in Scotland on Monday, but Trump said he and Starmer did not discuss Britain's plan to recognise a Palestinian state during their meeting. Trump had indicated he "didn't mind" Starmer taking a position on Palestinian statehood, but on Tuesday as he flew back to the United States, Trump said that recognising a Palestinian state would reward Hamas. WHO ELSE HAS RECOGNISED PALESTINIAN STATEHOOD? Starmer's announcement was welcomed by France, just days after President Emmanuel Macron confirmed his country's intention to pursue recognition of a Palestinian state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, Ireland, Norway and Spain took that step, while making clear that their decisions did not diminish their belief in Israel's fundamental right to exist in peace and security. About 144 of the 193 member states of the United Nations recognise Palestine as a state, including most of the global south as well as Russia, China and India. But only a handful of the 27 European Union members do so, mostly former Communist countries as well as Sweden and Cyprus. The U.N. General Assembly approved the de facto recognition of a sovereign state of Palestine in November 2012 by upgrading the Palestinians' observer status at the world body to "non-member state" from "entity". WHO COULD BE NEXT? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer's decision may put pressure on other major countries like Germany, Australia, Canada and Japan to take the same path. Germany said on Friday it was not planning to recognise Palestinian statehood in the short term, while Italy has said recognition must occur simultaneously with the recognition of Israel by a new Palestinian state. (Reporting by Andrew MacAskill, Alistair Smout, Catarina Demony and Sam Tabahriti; editing by Mark Heinrich) Colorado has joined a coalition of 20 other states in filing a lawsuit challenging the U.S. Department of Agriculture's request for personal information of people who have received benefits through the federal food stamps program. OMAHA, Neb. (AP) Firefighters in eastern Nebraska battled a fire for hours following an explosion Tuesday at a wood pellet manufacturing plant, but authorities said they have been unable to get close enough to search for three people believed to be missing. The explosion happened at the Horizon Biofuels plant, which makes animal bedding and wood pellets for heating and smoking food, on the south end of Fremont, Nebraska. Fremont Mayor Joey Spellerberg said three individuals were in the building, but that's all we can say at this point, he said in a briefing Tuesday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were working with the state patrol as well as the state of Nebraska and other groups to assess the building and the structure of the building to where, again, we can be able to get in, Spellerberg said. Fremont Fire Chief Todd Bernt said first responders were up against heavy smoke and a lot of flames" when they first arrived on scene. The first call reporting the explosion came in just before noon, according to Spellerberg. Photos taken after the explosion show the top of the facility's tall tower marked by a distinctive sunbeam logo of the former owner, Golden Sun Feeds torn off, exposing mangled metal and ripped siding. Debris littered the ground below. The facility uses tons of wood waste to manufacture their wood fuel pellets. An overnight fire at the building in 2014 had damaged the electrical system but left the structure in tact, according to reporting by the Fremont Tribune. A fire captain said at the time that the building has a cement structure on the outside and the metal frame is tied into that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bernt said they believe the facility stores wood and some alcohol-based materials. Dodge County Attorney Pamela Hopkins, who also serves as the county coroner, said law enforcement and first responders were busy securing the scene Tuesday afternoon and had not yet contacted her in her role as coroner. She added that she was hoping not to get that call. Right now, we're focused on the safety of the community and getting the situation under control keeping the scene secure, Hopkins said. She declined to comment further. Fremont, a city of about 27,000 and the sixth-largest in Nebraska, is located 32 miles (52 kilometers) northwest of Omaha, Nebraska. The site of the explosion is surrounded by other manufacturing and food processing plants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taylor Kirklin, who lives about a half mile (0.8 kilometers) from the building, said her whole house shook Tuesday. She said the explosion was so loud that she thought someone had driven into the lobby of her family's dog kennel business on the property. I got up and looked outside and there was a huge plume of smoke," she said. We were really unsure when the explosion happened which plant it was because there are so many in that area." Extreme heat warning issued for nearly all of Central Florida Most of Central Florida is under an extreme heat warning on Tuesday. The only exception will be Brevard County, which is under a heat advisory. Residents are advised to take precautions as the heat index is expected to reach between 110 and 115 degrees in many areas. The extreme heat is expected to be accompanied by high humidity, making conditions particularly uncomfortable. However, there is a possibility of some relief with scattered showers anticipated throughout the day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the week progresses, the chance of rain and storms is expected to improve. By the end of the week, temperatures are forecasted to return to the low and mid-90s. Residents are urged to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during this period of extreme heat. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Claim: U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez challenged U.S. President Donald Trump to share his college transcript, writing on X: You release your college transcript, Ill release mine, and well see who was the better student. Loser has to fund the Post Office. Rating: Rating: Correct Attribution In July 2025, an old post attributed to U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez went viral in which she appeared to challenge President Donald Trump to share his college transcript and compare who between them was the better student. Ocasio-Cortez was reportedly responding to Trump's claim that she was not a good student. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The post allegedly stated: Trump today on Fox News: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was a poor studentshe's not even a smart person. AOC's response: Let's make a deal, Mr. President: You release your college transcript, I'll release mine, and we'll see who was the better student. The loser has to fund the Post Office. (Reddit user "snowpie92") Ocasio-Cortez did indeed respond to Trump's criticism of her abilities as a student with a challenge to share his college transcripts. As such, we rate this a correct attribution. Ocasio-Cortez made the post on X on Aug. 13, 2020, after Trump said on Fox News: "AOC was a poor student [...] this is not even a smart person, other than she's got a good line of stuff, she goes out and she yaps." Trump was criticizing Ocasio-Cortez's political positions. In response, she wrote on X: Let's make a deal, Mr. President: You release your college transcript, I'll release mine, and we'll see who was the better student. Loser has to fund the Post Office. Lets make a deal, Mr. President: You release your college transcript, Ill release mine, and well see who was the better student. Loser has to fund the Post Office. https://t.co/OXnmJxufIw Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) August 13, 2020 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ocasio-Cortez was also addressing Trump's criticism of mail-in voting ahead of the 2020 presidential election. He had acknowledged that he was blocking funds to the U.S. Postal Service to prevent the processing of mail-in ballots. Trump worried that mail-in ballots could cost him the election and also falsely claimed widespread mail-in voting would cause voter fraud. We have previously fact-checked many claims about AOC, including her claim that she was originally from the Bronx, as well as false claims that she is a multimillionaire and that her family collected her dead grandmother's Social Security checks. Sources: Levine, Sam. "Trump Admits He Is Undermining USPS to Make It Harder to Vote by Mail." The Guardian, 13 Aug. 2020. The Guardian, https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/aug/13/donald-trump-usps-post-office-election-funding. Accessed 29 July 2025. Liles, Jordan. "AOC Rumor Falsely Claims She Is a Multimillionaire." Snopes, 18 Apr. 2025, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/aoc-multimillionaire-rumor/. Accessed 29 July 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Liles, Jordan. "AOC's Family Didn't Collect Dead Grandmother's Social Security Checks." Snopes, 2 Apr. 2025, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/aoc-grandmother-social-security/. Accessed 29 July 2025. PerryCook, Taija. "Breaking down Claims AOC Isn't from the Bronx." Snopes, 7 Jul. 2025, https://www.snopes.com//news/2025/07/04/aoc-not-from-the-bronx/. Accessed 29 July 2025. Rascouet-Paz, Anna. "13 Claims about AOC We've Scrutinized." Snopes, 13 May 2025, https://www.snopes.com//collections/aoc-claims-collection/. Accessed 29 July 2025. "Trump Admits He's Blocking Postal Cash to Stop Mail-in Votes." AP News, 14 Aug. 2020, https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-election-2020-ap-top-news-elections-politics-14a2ceda724623604cc8d8e5ab9890ed. Accessed 29 July 2025. Claim: Kyle Langford, a declared California gubernatorial candidate, posted a picture of himself in front of the Auschwitz concentration camp with the caption, My 0% Unemployment Plan. Rating: Rating: True In late July 2025, claims that a California man allegedly running for governor posted a picture of himself in front of the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland with the caption "My 0% Unemployment Plan" circulated online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man in question was Kyle Langford, an aspiring politician who declared himself a candidate for governor in the upcoming 2026 California gubernatorial election. He described his "political philosophy" as "Christian Eco-Nationalism," which he said "blends moral framework and law-and-order pragmatism with a unique Californian identity," according to his answers on a Ballotpedia survey. Further, according to his campaign website, Langford's platforms include "revitalizing" California's "Catholic foundations," "infrastructure development," "education, regulation and societal reform" and "preventing wildfires and planting trees." Users across social media platforms like X (archived), Facebook (archived) and Instagram (archived) shared the aspiring politician's purported post, some offering commentary on Langford's message. One user on X (archived) wrote, "Coming out as a full-on Nazi and Hitler supporter is a viable political strategy in the U.S. these days." (@KyleLangfordCA on X) The rumor that Langford posted a picture of himself in front of Auschwitz along with the caption "My 0% Unemployment Plan" is true. Langford made the post in question on X (archived) on July 25, 2025, in a repost of another account's message that claimed, "California now leads the nation in both unemployment and homelessness." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Langford did not elaborate on the alleged policy behind his comment, as it was likely intended to make headlines to draw attention to his campaign. We could not definitively determine whether the photo authentically depicted Langford at Auschwitz or if it was the result of digital manipulation. However, a Snopes reader sent us a link to an article titled "Seeking Silence in Auschwitz" from the Museum of Jewish Heritage authored by Katy Matello, which featured an image that appeared identical to the one in Langford's post. Details such as the cloud formations and positioning of the gate match in both images, so it's likely Langford used digital manipulation to insert himself on top of Matello's photograph, making it appear as though he was on-site. Despite the flagrant trolling, the post inspired a host of organizations to denounce the sentiment, including the Auschwitz Memorial Museum itself, which shared a screenshot of the post in question and wrote on X (archived): The instrumentalization of the tragedy of all those imprisoned and murdered in the German Nazi concentration and extermination camp Auschwitz for political messaging is a profound moral failure. Auschwitz is not a prop. @KyleLangfordCA, your post is an affront to the dignity of the victims and a disturbing display of insensitivity and disregard to horryfying [sic] human history. A look at Langford's social media accounts revealed his use of controversial posts and his responses to detractors as a way to draw attention to himself and other endeavors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, he responded to the Auschwitz Museum by posting (archived), "My German Ancestors smile upon me (& My most sincere of Thank you's for the massive shoutout @AuschwitzMuseum)." In his response, Langford posted a video of himself posing for the camera from various angles without any further comments. When reached for comment via email, the Auschwitz Museum referred us to the statement made on X. In addition, an account on X called European Democrats posted (archived) a statement denouncing Langford's post which read in part: "This isn't humour, it's hatred in disguise. At a time when civilians are dying in the Middle East, such cynicism is obscene. That someone like this could aspire to political office is not just shocking it's disgraceful." Langford responded (archived), "I wasn't joking, I think it is exactly what is needed to stabilize California and keep people safe." Further, he replied to a user calling him a fascist by saying (archived), "Yes, I am," with a thumbs-up emoji. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Links on Langford's campaign website lead to his artist profiles on music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. In the aforementioned Ballotpedia survey, he responded to the question "What was the last song stuck in your head?" with one of his own. Langford's employment history is primarily in construction according to his LinkedIn. He previously went viral for comments on a podcast made in April 2025 in which he stated migrant women should have a one-year timeline to marry or risk deportation. Snopes reached out to Langford for comment and will update this article if we receive a response. Sources: Fact Check: California Governor Candidate Kyle Langford DID Post Auschwitz Photo as "0% Unemployment Plan" | Lead Stories. 28 Jul. 2025, https://leadstories.com/hoax-alert/2025/07/fact-check-kyle-langford-auschwitz-nazi-concentration-camp-unemployment-california.html. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Home." Governor Langford, https://www.governorlangford.com. Accessed 28 Jul. 2025. "Kyle Langford." Ballotpedia, https://ballotpedia.org/Kyle_Langford. Accessed 28 Jul. 2025. London, Billal Rahman is an immigration reporter based in, et al. "Republican Candidate Proposes Forcing Migrant Women to Marry American Men." Newsweek, 16 Apr. 2025, https://www.newsweek.com/republican-kyle-langford-proposes-forcing-migrant-woman-marry-2060334. Updates: July 30, 2025: This article was updated to include a response from the Auschwitz Museum as well as a possible origin for the background shown in Langford's photo. Claim: CNN referred to a suspect in the July 28, 2025, shooting at a Manhattan office building as "possibly white." Rating: Rating: Correct Attribution Context: During CNN's coverage of the Manhattan office building shooting on July 28, 2025, chief law enforcement and intelligence analyst John Miller described the suspect as "possibly white." Anchor Erin Burnett reiterated that description shortly afterward during the broadcast. However, social media users' claims about CNN's coverage lacked context. The network provided that description early in its coverage before the suspect was identified or captured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the wake of a deadly shooting at a Manhattan office building on July 28, 2025, claims about CNN's coverage of the suspected gunman circulated on social media. The social media posts criticized the news network for reportedly describing the gunman, who police later identified as Shane Tamura of Las Vegas, as "possibly white," even though alleged photos of him circulating online depicted a person with a darker complexion. Other posts also claimed that CNN referred to the suspect as a "white male." In an X post (archived) on July 29, 2025, conspiracy theorist and Infowars host Alex Jones wrote: "'Possibly White' is the new 'mostly peaceful protest.' Both are inventions of the gaslighting factory known as CNN. CNN describes the shooter as 'male, POSSIBLY WHITE.'" Jones' post included images of a man with a darker complexion. (@RealAlexJones on X) CNN's chief law enforcement and intelligence analyst, John Miller, did describe the man as "possibly white" during a broadcast on July 28, 2025. Anchor Erin Burnett reiterated that description shortly afterward during the broadcast. For this reason, we've rated the claim as correctly attributed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, social media users' claims about CNN's coverage lacked context. The network provided the description of the gunman early in its coverage before he was identified. CNN has not said where it obtained that description. An archived recording shows CNN began covering the incident at 7:22 p.m. EDT during "Erin Burnett OutFront." Burnett introduced Miller to discuss the developing situation at 7:25 p.m. At that time, Miller described what the shooter was wearing, the weapon he carried and how he entered the office building. Later, at 7:31 p.m., Miller provided more details about the gunman and said he was "possibly white," an archived recording showed. At that time, he had not been identified and it was unclear whether he was on the loose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Was his face visible? Do they have any idea at this point who he is?" Burnett asked Miller during the broadcast. In response, Miller said, in part (emphasis ours): They do not know who he is. They know he is a male, possibly white. He's wearing sunglasses. He appears to have a mustache. And that picture has been distributed to every police officer in New York City particularly has been sent to the phones of the search teams inside that building. It's unclear what picture Miller was referring to during the broadcast. Burnett then reiterated the description of the gunman as "possibly white" shortly afterward, archived footage showed. At 7:49 p.m., CNN correspondent Shimon Prokupecz reported that the gunman was believed to be dead. CNN later aired the now widely circulated photo of the suspected gunman carrying a rifle several minutes after 8 p.m. during its broadcast of "Anderson Cooper 360." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police had not publicly confirmed any information about the shooter's race or ethnicity at the time of this publication. The gunman took his own life at the Manhattan office tower, police said. In sum, CNN did describe the gunman as "possibly white," but the network did so early in the unfolding coverage. Sources: "NYC Shooting: What We Know so Far about the Shooting and the Gunman." AP News, 29 July 2025, apnews.com/article/new-york-city-shooting-killed-0d002f9e3a3fdab7d7ad93616d42e865. Accessed 29 July 2025. "Erin Burnett OutFront: CNNW: July 28, 2025 4:00pm-5:00pm PDT: Free Borrow & Streaming: Internet Archive." Internet Archive, 28 July 2025, archive.org/details/CNNW_20250728_230000_Erin_Burnett_OutFront/start/1980/end/2040. Accessed 29 July 2025. Claim: A photograph authentically shows former U.S. President Barack Obama drinking beer in Southeast Asia with convicted sex offender Jeffery Epstein. Rating: Rating: Miscaptioned Context: The man in the photograph with Obama is late television host and chef Anthony Bourdain. In July 2025, a photograph circulated online purportedly showing former U.S. President Barack Obama drinking beer with disgraced financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The picture was allegedly taken in a Southeast Asian country, according to numerous posts. One X user's caption read: "It was buried by the press, but not only were Obama and Jeffrey Epstein friends, they traveled around Thailand together, in search of 'the perfect spring roll'." (X user @baltic_dan) However, the photo above does not show Obama drinking a beer with Epstein. The man drinking alongside the former president is the late chef and television personality Anthony Bourdain. As such, we have rated this picture as miscaptioned. The authentic photo was taken while Bourdain was interviewing Obama in a small restaurant in Hanoi, Vietnam not Thailand for his show "Parts Unknown" in 2016 (archived). They had a dish called bun cha while drinking beer. During the interview, Obama spoke about his past experiences in Southeast Asia, parenthood and reaching across political divides. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bourdain died by suicide in 2018. On June 8 of that year, Obama posted the above photograph of the pair drinking beer in Hanoi with the caption: "'Low plastic stool, cheap but delicious noodles, cold Hanoi beer.' This is how I'll remember Tony. He taught us about food but more importantly, about its ability to bring us together. To make us a little less afraid of the unknown. We'll miss him." Low plastic stool, cheap but delicious noodles, cold Hanoi beer. This is how Ill remember Tony. He taught us about food but more importantly, about its ability to bring us together. To make us a little less afraid of the unknown. Well miss him. pic.twitter.com/orEXIaEMZM Barack Obama (@BarackObama) June 8, 2018 While Bourdain and Epstein may have had some facial similarities, it is clear that they are two different men and that Epstein was not pictured in the above photo alongside Obama. Snopes has investigated numerous claims regarding Bourdain and Obama. For example, we looked into whether the late chef said that people should have a drink with those they disagree with and whether the former president said that boys need gay mentors. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health, suicide or substance use crisis or emotional distress, reach out 24/7 to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) by dialing or texting 988 or using chat services at 988lifeline.org to connect to a trained crisis counselor. Sources: "Barack Obama & Anthony Bourdain Have Dinner | Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown." YouTube, HBO Max, 25 Nov. 2023, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efG56KcQj0Q. Accessed 29 July 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 'Former Obama Adviser Ben Rhodes Remembers Anthony Bourdain'. Explore Parts Unknown, 25 Oct. 2018, https://explorepartsunknown.com/directors-cut/why-obama-wanted-to-sit-down-with-bourdain/. 'Https://X.Com/Barackobama/Status/1005117568913412098'. X (Formerly Twitter), https://x.com/barackobama/status/1005117568913412098. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025. Ibrahim, Nur. 'Anthony Bourdain Said "Have a Drink" With People You Wouldn't Agree With?' Snopes, 3 Jul. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/anthony-bourdain-drink-people/. ---. 'Examining Claim Obama Said Boys Need Gay Mentors'. Snopes, 24 Jul. 2025, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/boys-gay-mentors-obama/. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/?next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fanthonybourdain%2F&is_from_rle. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025. Severson, Kim. "The Last, Painful Days of Anthony Bourdain." The New York Times. 27 Sep. 2022. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/09/27/dining/anthony-bourdain-biography.html. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efG56KcQj0Q. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025. By Kylie Madry and Brendan O'Boyle (Reuters) -Former President Alvaro Uribe was convicted this week of abuse of process and bribery of a public official, and sentenced to 12 years of house arrest, making him the first ex-president in the country's history to be found guilty at trial. While the former president's conviction is unprecedented for the Andean nation, it is not so for the wider Latin American region where several former leaders have faced criminal convictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are some of their names: CRISTINA FERNANDEZ DE KIRCHNER - ARGENTINA She was convicted in 2022 of corruption related to public works contracts. Last month, the Supreme Court upheld her sentence that includes a lifetime ban from holding public office, effectively bringing down the country's most prominent politician in decades. The 72-year-old, a polarizing leftist two-term president from 2007 to 2015, as well as a former first lady, vice president and senator, is currently serving out her sentence under house arrest given her age. She has denied wrongdoing, claiming political persecution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LUIZ INACIO LULA DA SILVA - BRAZIL Brazil's current president was caught up in one of the country's largest corruption scandals, a probe known as "Car Wash," which revealed that some of Brazil's most powerful politicians and business people were involved in a billion-dollar corruption scheme at the state-owned oil firm Petrobras. Lula was convicted of corruption and money laundering in two criminal cases that accused him of taking bribes from construction companies. His opponent in the 2018 presidential campaign, Jair Bolsonaro, won the election, while Lula served a 580-day prison sentence. Lula's convictions were annulled in 2021 when the Supreme Court ruled that judge Sergio Moro, who oversaw Car Wash and later joined Bolsonaro's cabinet, was biased against the leftist leader. Lula has always denied the accusations. Lula has previously served as president between 2003 and 2010. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FERNANDO COLLOR DE MELLO - BRAZIL Brazil's first president to win the popular vote after the end of the nation's last military dictatorship, Collor found himself at the center of a corruption scandal just two years into his term which led to his impeachment and a ban on holding office for eight years. He was later acquitted. Decades later, Collor was convicted of taking bribes from a Petrobras unit and is serving out his sentence under house arrest. The former president, later elected senator, had challenged the conviction. RAFAEL CORREA - ECUADOR Correa, who governed Ecuador for a decade starting in 2007, was convicted in 2020 and sentenced in absentia to eight years in prison for leading a bribery network that financed his political party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has lived in Belgium since 2017, where he was granted political asylum, and maintains the charges are a form of political persecution. His former vice president, Jorge Glas, is serving multiple sentences in Ecuador for corruption and embezzlement. MAURICIO FUNES - EL SALVADOR El Salvador's one-time war correspondent and former leftist leader fled his country in 2016 for Nicaragua to avoid facing corruption charges for cutting deals with gang leaders. He was convicted in absentia in 2023 by the administration of current President Nayib Bukele, itself accused of negotiating with groups like MS-13. Funes died this year after a "serious chronic illness." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ANTONIO SACA - EL SALVADOR The former president was sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to embezzling over $300 million in public funds during his term from 2004 and 2009. He is currently serving his time at the La Esperanza prison in El Salvador. He became the first former Salvadoran president to be convicted of corruption. OTTO PEREZ - GUATEMALA Perez and his vice president, Roxana Baldetti, were forced out of office early and into prison after a graft case in which they were found guilty of illicit association and customs fraud. Investigators had charged that they led a scheme in which importers paid bribes to avoid paying customs duties. Perez said the conviction was made "without a shred of proof." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ALEJANDRO TOLEDO - PERU In October 2024, Toledo was sentenced to 20 years and six months in prison for accepting $35 million in bribes from the construction firm Odebrecht. Toledo, a 78-year-old economist who holds a doctorate from Stanford University, governed the nation between 2001 and 2006. Toledo has denied the money-laundering and collusion charges. OLLANTA HUMALA - PERU Humala was sentenced to 15 years in prison in April 2025 for laundering over $3 million in illicit campaign funds from Odebrecht. His presidency was largely overshadowed by the major corruption scandals for which he was ultimately convicted. Humala decried the charges as political persecution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is serving his sentence in the same prison holding Toledo and former President Pedro Castillo, who is facing what could be a 34-year prison sentence for his 2022 attempt to dissolve Congress. The same prison also housed late Alberto Fujimori, former Peruvian president who was imprisoned until his release in 2023. RICARDO MARTINELLI - PANAMA Panama's former president was sentenced to more than 10 years in prison for money laundering in a case known as "New Business," which alleged public funds were used to buy a media conglomerate and give Martinelli a majority stake. He holed up in the Nicaraguan embassy in Panama to avoid serving his sentence before being granted asylum in Colombia, where he currently resides. He maintains his innocence. (Reporting by Kylie Madry and Brendan O'Boyle; Editing by Himani Sarkar) WASHINGTON (Reuters) -A shooting in a Manhattan skyscraper late on Monday that killed four people, including a New York City police officer, has been marked by statements of sorrow and prayers for the victims' families, but no sign of the Republican-controlled U.S. Congress seeking tougher controls on guns. Here is a summary of recent political developments around the issue: LOOSER GUN CONTROLS Gun rights, which are protected by the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, are a virtually untouchable issue for Republicans, who control the White House and both chambers of Congress and strongly oppose any encroachment on them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats' long-standing calls for more stringent controls on firearms, which now number around 400 million in the U.S., have shown few results. Indeed, part of Trump's sweeping tax-cut bill, which he signed into law on July 4, eased a century-old tax on gun silencers, known as "suppressors," and short-barrel rifles. 2022 GUN LAW When Democrats last had majorities in Congress and held the White House, the first significant gun control legislation in nearly 30 years was enacted in 2022. It was approved with some Republican support and came after mass shootings in Uvalde, Texas, and Buffalo, New York, which killed more than 30 people, including 19 children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The measure took modest steps, including tightening background checks for would-be gun purchasers convicted of domestic violence or significant crimes as juveniles. Since then, Congress has shown little appetite to build on that law, and Republican support for gun rights may have hardened. Senator John Cornyn of Texas, for example, was met with a backlash from some constituents and party activists over his support for the 2022 measure, and he now faces a potentially stiff challenge in his 2026 primary election. CONGRESS OUT OF STEP WITH THE PUBLIC? A Reuters/Ipsos poll in 2022 found that 84% of Americans supported extending background checks for all firearms purchases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a report published on July 24, the Pew Research Center noted a 2023 survey finding that 61% of Americans said it is too easy to legally obtain a gun, with 58% favoring stricter gun laws. And 66% wanted a ban on high-capacity ammunition magazines that hold more than 10 rounds, while 64% favored a ban on assault-style weapons, Pew wrote. In a speech to the Senate after the Manhattan shootings on Park Avenue, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said: "As we mourn this awful day in New York, we cannot keep meeting these moments with thoughts and prayers alone. We owe these families more than silence. We owe them action." But he did not use his somber speech to call for the passage of specific legislation. (Reporting by Richard Cowan;Editing by Rod Nickel) RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) A recent string of scams has arisen concerning a furry plush toy craze sweeping the globe. The Better Business Bureau of North Carolina issued a warning on Tuesday, cautioning consumers to be on the lookout for sham businesses trying to sell counterfeit Labubus and advertising affiliation with the parent Chinese company Pop Mart. Following a trend can be fun and exciting, but consumers should be aware that scammers are joining in selling counterfeit products, Mallory Wojciechowski, president and CEO of BBB, said in a statement. Be sure to research the product and where you are purchasing from to avoid losing out on money and fun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Counterfeit product sellers post listings online or stock the products in their storefront; these items are referred to as Lafufus. Online, fake product images and claims of official Pop Mart affiliation are often shared, making it appear like customers are buying the real thing, BBB officials said. After purchasing the item, people often find themselves being sent a dupe or never receive anything at all. In stores, the counterfeit sits on the shelves, which likely plays into why most of the Labubu scam reports come from people purchasing from online retailers, as they cannot use fake images, BBB officials said. The bureau offered the following tips for avoiding online purchasing scams: BBB Tips for Avoiding Online Purchasing Scams Check out the website before making a purchase. Scamadviser.com can often tell you how long a website has been in operation. Scammers create and close websites regularly, so a site that has only been operating for a short time could raise red flags. Do an internet search with the company name and the word scam. This may locate other complaints about the site. Scrutinize reviews. Scammers frequently post positive reviews on their websites, either copied from honest sites or created by scammers. One trusted resource to check reviews is at BBB.org . Be aware, some review websites claim to be independent but are funded by scammers. Look at the bad reviews first. These are more likely to be real and can help identify scams. Keep a record of what you ordered. Make a note of the website where you ordered goods. Take a screenshot of the item ordered, in case the website disappears or you receive an item that differs from what was advertised. Pay by credit card. Credit cards often provide more protection against fraud than other payment methods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are differences between Labubus and Lafufus from their boxes to the figures themselves. Legitimate boxes: Pale in color with a matte finish QR code that leads to the Pop Mart website Real Figures: Exactly nine teeth in their smile Faces should be a pale, peachy color UV Stamp on bottom of right foot on newer models Click here for more information on the scams. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. Blaine resident Jehad Adwai said he and his wife have lost 20 family members during the war in Gaza. Last week, he said, seven of his wifes relatives died, including her mother, sister and uncle. We dont just need words, because talk is very cheap, but we need action and action now, Adwai said Monday at a news conference in St. Paul hosted by the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. This is a dire situation that must end. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conference was held to raise awareness about the ongoing hunger and humanitarian situation in Gaza. I am, from all my heart, asking all Americans to stand up and look and see whats going on, Adwai said. President Donald Trump, speaking Monday during a visit to Scotland, expressed concern over the worsening situation and urged Israel to get people food. But others in the international community, including Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi on Monday, say Trump is the one who is able to stop the war, deliver the aid and end this suffering. Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, urged Minnesotans to call their senators and representatives and let them know that Congress needs to act, that the president needs to act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hussein said he has been speaking to other Palestinian families in the Twin Cities. This war has numbed many of us in ways we cannot understand, he said. What we see, we cannot un-see. The stories that weve heard, we cannot un-hear. The war in the Gaza strip began in October 2023, when the Palestinian militant group Hamas led an attack on Israel, killing more than 1,200 and taking 251 hostages. Hamas has been designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, Canada and the European Union. Related Articles Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minneapolis resident Donia, who declined to share her last name for privacy reasons, said she found out through a Facebook post that her parents cousins were killed in their home in northern Gaza. This is how weve been finding out about our families for the past two years, she said. Through the internet. She said she has lost over 35 family members during the war in Gaza. Donia said she first lost a family member in December 2023 when her cousin was killed by a sniper outside his home. Since then, her relatives have died from lack of medical care, malnourishment and airstrikes. My family deserved to live with dignity, she said. A Mesa County Sheriff's Office deputy released Utah college student Caroline Dias Goncalves with a warming June 5, 2025, when he pulled her over for following too closely. Then ICE agents arrested her after she exited I-70. She spent two weeks in an ICE facility in Aurora, before being released on bond. The family of a 19-year-old killed in a crash while on her way to perform in a show at a library have described her as "the most beautiful person inside and out". Rosa Taylor, from Upholland in Lancashire, was travelling as a passenger in a car headed to Corsham in Wiltshire when it was involved in a crash with a tipper truck on the A4 on 24 July. She was declared dead at the scene, while the female driver of the Hyundai she was travelling in and a fellow male passenger were taken to hospital with serious injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the wake of her death, her family have issued a tribute celebrating her "lifelong dedication" to performing. "Anyone who knew Rosa would agree that she was the most beautiful person inside and out," said her father Gareth Taylor. "She was the very definition of a spirit that shines brightly and dies young, loved by anyone who met her," he added. "She was at once the most talented, most beautiful, and most loving soul I've ever known." Described by her family as a natural-born performer "from birth", Ms Taylor grew up playing leading roles at the Artz Centre in Skelmersdale, West Lancashire, and had gone on to study musical theatre at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She had performed with Liverpool Empire Youth Theatre in productions such as Legally Blonde: The Musical and had recently also performed at the Liverpool Playhouse. In addition to her work on the stage, she also performed at children's parties, becoming beloved characters like Ariana Grande, Aladdin's Jasmine, and Beauty and The Beast's Belle. 'Naturally gifted' She had recently secured a place at the Trinity Laban Conservatoire in London and was due to start her course in September. Wiltshire Police confirmed she had been travelling to a show at Corsham Library when she was involved in the incident, where she had been due to play the lead role in a touring production. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her family went on to describe her as "a shining star" and the "greatest friend anyone could have asked for", adding that she was the "most naturally gifted performer you had ever seen". The driver of the truck was uninjured in the incident, which happened at about 13:30 BST, and Wiltshire Police has appealed for witnesses to get in touch. Follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630. More on this story Related internet links A South Carolina family has filed a lawsuit against Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines after they said an employee stole their childs belongings, which led to a shocking discovery. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] On July 19, 2023, a couple and their two minor children boarded a flight from Charleston, S.C., to London, England, with a scheduled stop to change planes at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While on the flight, one of the children had an iPad with a pink Peppa Pig case, according to the lawsuit. The family arrived at JFK, deboarded the plane and boarded their flight to Heathrow Airport. Once they landed in London, the family realized they had accidentally left the childs iPad on the plane that flew from Charleston to JFK, the lawsuit states. According to the lawsuit, the mother realized they didnt have the iPad after she began receiving random text messages related to the device. The mother used the Find My app and learned the device was in Queens/Jamaica, N.Y. The alleged thief logged the mother out of the account and had been taking pictures, including selfies with it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit states the pictures showed a Delta airline employee wearing a Delta uniform and name badge. TRENDING STORIES: On July 20, 2023, the family filed a lost-and-found report for the iPad with Delta. Between the filing of the report and August 27, 2023, the family says Delta had not responded. That same day, the family says pornographic videos of the man popped up in the familys iCloud account. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the videos, the employee is pleasuring himself while in a Delta uniform and wearing a Delta badge, the lawsuit states. The family filed a second report the same day. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Between August 27 and September 3, 2023, the family said they only received no-reply emails from Delta. On September 3, another pornographic video showed up in the familys iCloud account, with the same individual, according to the lawsuit. The man also managed to access the familys iTunes account and create his own personal profile, and created an account on the familys Amazon account with the new profile titled Gay, the lawsuit states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mother was notified by one of her children of the new profile. The family is requesting compensation for negligent infliction of emotional distress, sexual assault and harassment. The family is demanding a jury trial. Channel 2 Action News received the following statement regarding the lawsuit: Delta is aware of the complaint. The accused individual is not a Delta employee but one of a vendor company. We have zero tolerance for unlawful behavior of any kind but will decline to comment further on this pending litigation. EAST PALESTINE, Ohio (WKBN) An East Palestine family is trying to recover after a fire forced them from their home Thursday. Lance Wolfe and his family were home last Thursday afternoon when he smelled something burning at his home on East Main Street. I couldnt find the source of it either, so then I went downstairs to change the fuse, because the fuse for the room blew, and then it popped in my face like a bright blue light, Wolfe said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As he was coming back upstairs, a passerby was banging on the door, telling them the roof of their house was on fire. Wolfe, his wife Janeen and daughters Cadence and Harlee all got out safely but lost many of their possessions. Destroyed a lot of photos, papers and documents, Wolfe said. Making matters worse, 4-year-old Harlee has Dravet syndrome, a rare and potentially life-threatening form of epilepsy. She had a wheelchair, her bed, she has a $10,000 bed, too, thats gone, her medications, Wolfe said. The Red Cross and community support have been helping the family, while relatives reach out to local foundations and charities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everyone has been absolutely wonderful. Theres a GoFundMe page everyones been helping. Theres been a big outreach of help, which is wonderful. We cant thank everyone enough, said Dawn Wehr, the childrens grandmother. Although firefighters have not determined a cause, Wolfe blames the old electric wiring in the house. The blaze is just the latest tragedy for the Wolfes, who say theyre stay-at-home parents so they can care for Harlees condition. The house sits just blocks away from the scene of the 2023 train derailment. I think thats a lot at one time. Its a lot emotional, too, Wehr said. For the time being, the family is staying at a local hotel while they look for a new place to live, thinking their old one is a total loss. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Republican strategist Karl Rove said Tuesday that far-left mayoral candidates will make it harder for Democrats to gain ground. The more that we get people like this representing the face of the Democratic Party, the harder it is to win back voters in the middle of American politics, Rove said on Fox Newss Americas Newsroom in a clip highlighted by Mediaite, speaking about Minnesota state Sen. Omar Fateh (D). Fateh, a self-described democratic socialist, recently earned the Minneapolis DFLs endorsement for the citys mayoral race. His clinching of the endorsement comes alongside another progressive candidate and democratic socialist, Zohran Mamdani, winning last months Democratic Party primary for New York City mayor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am incredibly honored to be the DFL endorsed candidate for Minneapolis Mayor. This endorsement is a message that Minneapolis residents are done with broken promises, vetoes, and politics as usual. Its a mandate to build a city that works for all of us, Fateh said in a post on the social platform X on July 19. Fatehs and Mamdanis success comes as there are heated debates within the Democratic Party about how to move forward in the wake of the 2024 elections, when Democrats lost their chances at power in the House, Senate and White House. The more left-wing the center of these big cities become, the more difficult it is for Democrats to win votes that, you know, theyre going to be driving away votes, not only in rural America, suburban America, but theyre also going to be driving away votes in urban America, Rove said Tuesday. Rep. Laura Gillen (D-N.Y.) distanced herself from Mamdani last month, saying he was the wrong choice for New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Socialist Zohran Mamdani is too extreme to lead New York City, Gillen said in a statement. His entire campaign has been built on unachievable promises and higher taxes, which is the last thing New York needs. Akhilesh Menawat, a co-campaign manager for Fateh, said in a statement to The Hill that Karl Rove and Fox News dont decide who leads Minneapolis; the people who live and work here do. Senator Omar Fateh has built the broadest coalition in this race because he delivers. Hes passed tuition-free college and fair wages for rideshare drivers with bipartisan support, he added. Thats not extreme, thats exactly the leadership Minneapolis deserves. Updated at 5:55 p.m. EDT Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. One English wheat farmer is concerned that the extreme heat and dry spell England has been experiencing will result in significant crop losses this year, the BBC reported. What's happening? Will Dickinson, a wheat farmer from Hertfordshire, England, has revealed that he expects a crop loss of approximately 10% to 25% this year, the BBC reported. His wheat crops are usually green by this time of the growing season. However, most have turned yellow due to extreme heat and lack of rain. Dickinson expects most of these crops to become shriveled by the time of harvest later this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crop losses increase the cost of production for farmers, making it harder for them to stay profitable. According to commodity data provided by Markets Insider, wheat prices have fallen by 9.2% between July 1, 2024, and July 1, 2025, and may continue to fall with increased crop losses. "We are looking at this moment at growing this crop and making a loss on it," Dickinson said, per BBC. Wheat is becoming an unprofitable crop to grow, and farmers like Dickinson may stop growing wheat to cut their losses. Farmers around the world in Vietnam, Cambodia, Pakistan, India, Canada, and more are similarly facing the threat of failed crops due to brutal weather patterns. Why is extreme heat concerning? The overheating of the planet isn't just uncomfortable for humans and wildlife; it's impacting the land that farmers rely on to grow crops that sustain our food supply. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Erratic weather patterns like dry spells and extreme heat followed by heavy rain and storm surges make it difficult for newly planted crops to establish a deep root system to support the crop during the growing season. The lack of precipitation dries out the soil and leads to increased water runoff. This means that, when it does rain, the hardened soil allows the water to run off instead of absorbing it. Without enough water, the crops will wither and die, leading to increased crop failure. The increased cost of production is passed on to consumers as inflated food prices at the grocery store. What can I do to help? There's a large disconnect between the farmers who grow our food and their produce being stocked at the local grocery store. Farmers like Dickinson do their best to adapt to changing weather patterns, but they may still incur crop losses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporting local and sustainably grown produce helps keep farms like Dickinson's alive and gives them a better chance of weathering unsuccessful growing seasons. Joining Community Supported Agriculture also helps bridge that gap between farmers and consumers, allowing consumers to pay an upfront fee for the farm's harvest in exchange for weekly or monthly fresh produce. To not let the hard work of farmers go to waste, buy and consume only what you will eat, and help reduce global food waste. Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. The weather has become more extreme, and that's pushing grocery prices higher. From droughts and floods to storms wiping out crops, the fallout is showing up at the supermarket checkout. And according to a growing number of experts, things could get even more expensive. What's happening? Australian group Farmers for Climate Action (FCA) recently released a report warning that extreme weather events like the record floods in Queensland and deepening droughts in South Australia are tightening supply chains and driving up the cost of everyday foods. "Australians need to understand that droughts, fires, and floods whether here or overseas directly affect the prices we pay for coffee, beef, and bread," said FCA CEO Natalie Collard. She further stressed that at the current rate, "the price of red meat to the consumer may rise dramatically in another six months." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report, authored by Robert Poole of Corporate Value Associates, illustrates how weather disruptions are affecting production throughout the global food value chain. Backing this up, a recent survey by QDOS Research found that most Australians already consider extreme weather the main reason their grocery bills have increased. Why is this report concerning? This isn't just about unpredictable weather it's about everyday affordability. When growing conditions become harsher, farmers produce less, supplies shrink, and prices rise. It's a recipe for higher grocery bills that hit families where it hurts most: the kitchen table. And while farms are often the first to feel the pressure, the ripple effect touches nearly everyone. Fewer cattle mean more expensive beef. Damaged crops increase the cost of fruits and vegetables. Even coffee prices are affected by overseas floods and heat waves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This growing pattern of disruption is also a reminder that the way we treat the planet directly affects what we can put on our plates and how much we'll have to pay for it. What's being done about it? Australian farmers are calling for more effective policies to mitigate long-term risks and stabilize food production. The FCA and other organizations are pushing for solutions that support growers while keeping food affordable. This isn't the first time weather-driven disruptions have made headlines, from the UK's crop production to Louisiana's crawfish shortage. However, there are ways to adapt. Choosing seasonal produce, reducing food waste, and buying in bulk can help stretch your budget. Planning ahead and shopping smarter can also make a big difference. How often do you eat meat in a normal week? Every day Most days Once or twice Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. LAHORE, Pakistan (AP) The father and the ex-husband of an alleged honor-killing victim are among nine people arrested in eastern Pakistan in connection with the young woman's death. Police said Sidra Bibi, 18, was killed on the orders of a local council of elders in the garrison city of Rawalpindi after she married a man of her choice. Some of her relatives are alleged to have buried her body and flattened the land to erase evidence of a grave, police official Aftab Hussain said Monday. The victim was suffocated using a pillow placed over her face, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The arrests came after authorities exhumed the body and carried out an autopsy, which confirmed she had been tortured before being killed. The case has drawn widespread condemnation in a country where honor killings are still common. The independent Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said 405 women were killed in 2024 in such cases, compared with 226 in 2023. The actual number is believed to be higher due to underreporting," said Sadia Bukhari, a member of the commission's council. Honor killings, in which family members kill women for actions perceived as bringing shame to the family such as choosing their spouse have increased in recent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, police in in southwestern Balochistan province arrested 11 suspects after a video shared online appeared to show a young couple being fatally shot for marrying without their families approval. Police confirmed the authenticity of the footage, saying the killings happened in the Deghari district in the province of Balochistan. In January, police arrested a Pakistani man suspected of killing his U.S.-born 15-year-old daughter for refusing to stop posting videos on TikTok, a platform with more than 54 million users in the country. These so-called honor killings reveal a deep-rooted mindset that views women as the property of men, Bukhari said. Most women in Pakistan face discrimination from childhood through adulthood. __ Associated Press writer Asim Tanveer contributed to this story from Multan, Pakistan. Two Cincinnati area men, one of whom is the father of actress Skai Jacksons son, have been indicted on burglary charges after Colerain police say a home was forcibly entered with $10,000 worth of items reported missing. Colerain police responded to a 911 call June 4 for a residential burglary in the 9900 block of Weik Road in Colerain Township, according to a statement from the township spokeswoman. Police say the homeowner reported that he left the residence to run errands for a short time. When he returned, he discovered his residence had been forcibly entered. The total loss is estimated to be over $10,000, with money, jewelry, and firearms reported stolen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deondre Burgin, 21, was booked into the Hamilton County Justice Center on July 17 in connection with a West Price Hill robbery that happened June 21. Burgin was arrested in connection with the June 4 burglary on July 20. He and Jackson have a son together and share a volatile history: Jackson filed a temporary restraining order against Burgin in May, accusing him of physically attacking her on Mother's Day. Jackson is a former child star on the Disney Channel, well-known for her roles in "Jessie" and "Bunk'd." Danzail Farrier, 29, was arrested July 17. He had been out on parole since March for a weapons offense. His arrest for the June 4 robbery violated his parole agreement. Police say he will also face a charge for violation of parole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, Burgin and Farrier are both scheduled for arraignment in Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas on Aug. 1. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Father of Disney star's child and one other charged with burglary The father and ex-husband of a victim allegedly killed on the orders of a local council are among nine people arrested in eastern Pakistan in connection with the young womans death. Police said Sidra Bibi, 18, was killed allegedly on the orders of a local council of elders in the garrison city of Rawalpindi, after she married a man of her own choosing. Her relatives buried her body and flattened the land to erase evidence of a grave, police official Aftab Hussain said Monday. The victim was suffocated using a pillow placed over her face, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The arrests came after authorities exhumed the body and carried out an autopsy, which confirmed she had been tortured before being killed. The case has drawn widespread condemnation in a country where killings with such motivations are still common. The independent Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said 405 women were killed in 2024 in such cases, compared with 226 in 2023. The actual number is believed to be higher due to underreporting, said Sadia Bukhari, a member of the commissions council. According to Sustainable Social Development Organisation (SSDO), an Islamabad-based independent organisation, more than 32,000 cases of gender-based violence were reported nationwide last year, including 547 similar murders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Killings in which family members kill women for actions perceived as bringing shame to the family have increased in recent years. Last week, police in southwestern Balochistan province arrested 13 suspects after a video shared online appeared to show a young couple being shot dead for marrying without their families approval. Police confirmed the authenticity of the footage, which went viral, saying the killings happened in May near Balochistans capital, Quetta. In January, police arrested a Pakistani man suspected of killing his US-born 15-year-old daughter for refusing to stop posting videos on TikTok, a platform with more than 54 million users in the country. These so-called honour killings reveal a deep-rooted mindset that views women as the property of men, Bukhari said. Most women in Pakistan face discrimination from childhood through adulthood. Hakeem Robinson, also known by the rap name Ksoo, and Leroy Whitaker Jr. are charged with 1st degree murder in the killing of Charles McCormick Jr. over a diss track. Abdul Robinson Sr. is Hakeem Robinsons father. Robinson Sr. is charged with accessory after the fact in the incident from January 15th, 2020. RELATED: What to know as accused Jacksonville gang members at the center of deadly drill rap beef go on trial Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robinson Sr. got visibly emotional on the stand as he identified his son as the alleged shooter. State Attorneys Office: Who is the person that was captured on the video recording shooting Charles McCormick? Abdul Robinson Sr.: My son State Attorneys Office: Whats your sons name? Abdul Robinson Sr.: Hakeem. This is the moment a father turned against his son. Abdul Robinson Sr. testified against his son Hakeem Robinson and Leroy Whitaker who are charged with 1st degree murder in the killing of Charles McCormick Jr. Whitaker is also charged with burglary with assault or battery home invasion robbery [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Robinson Sr. took a plea deal with the state in exchange for his testimony against his son and Whitaker, and for his testimony in another case. He is alleged to have picked up Whitaker and Dominique Barner from a womans house the day McCormick Jr. was killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Attorneys Office: Did you do anything else to assist either Leroy Whitaker or Dominique Barner? Abdul Robinson Sr.: Yes. State Attorneys Office: What did you do? Abdul Robinson Sr.: Well I took the clothes they had on. State Attorneys Office: Did you set them on fire? Abdul Robinson Sr.: Yes. State Attorneys Office: And why were you doing that? Abdul Robinson Sr.: I mean, it was just my way to help. Robinson Sr. told jurors that his plea deal with the state lowered his maximum possible sentence to 20 years behind bars. Robinson Sr. told jurors he had a number of reasons for why he testified against his son, including health issues and the fact that he has two six-year-olds and an eight-year-old daughter that he wants to be there for. He also told jurors that cooperating with the state in this case was the hardest decision I had to make in my life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hakeem Robinsons defense attorney pressed his clients father about his real intentions for testifying against his son. Chris DeCoste / Attorney for Hakeem Robinson: Your number one objective is protecting yourself? Abdul Robinson Sr.: Of course. Testimony in this trial resumes Tuesday. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Tea leaf reading is the art of brewing a cup of loose leaf tea, setting an intention or asking a question, consuming the earthy liquid, turning the cup upside down and right side up, then searching for and analyzing the images created by the leftover tea leaves congregating around the sides and bottom of the cup. Readings are available every other Friday through Sept. 5 at The Queen's TEApothecary in Old Colorado City. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.) called on the FBI Tuesday to conduct a counterintelligence threat assessment of files connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in order to determine whether a foreign actor could use them against President Trump or other prominent Americans. Whatever may be in the Epstein files is clearly troubling enough that Donald Trump doesnt want to touch this issue with a ten-foot pole, Schumer said on the floor. So its natural to ask: what happens if Americas adversaries use cyber-attacks or other means to access investigative materials into Jeffrey Epstein that are embarrassing or worse for President Trump and the people around him? Schumer said Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What happens if Epstein materials end up in the hands of the Chinese government, or Russia, or North Korea? he asked. Schumer argued that unless the Epstein files are released and made fully transparent to the public, they could become compromising material that foreign adversaries could use to blackmail someone like the president or other senior leaders in government. Schumer wants the FBI to assess what risk would be posed if a foreign adversary were to gain access to information in the Epstein files. He is asking the FBI to determine if foreign intelligence agencies could gain access to the information in the files through cyber intrusion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also wants the FBI to identify any vulnerabilities that could be exploited by foreign intelligence, such as being able to gain leverage over Donald Trump, his family or other senior government officials. And hes asking the nations top law enforcement agency to publicly show they are developing mitigation strategies to counter these threats and safeguard our national security. Trump said Monday at a press conference in Scotland that he ended his friendship with Epstein more than 20 years ago after he did something that was inappropriate. The president said Epstein stole employees who were working for him at Mar-a-Lago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He hired help and I said, Dont ever do that again, Trump told reporters. He stole people that worked for me. I said, Dont ever do that again. He did it again, and I threw him out of the place, persona non grata. I threw him out and that was it. Im glad I did, if you want to know the truth, he said. Trump also said Monday that he turned down an invitation from Epstein to visit his private Caribbean Island. I never went to the island and Bill Clinton went there supposedly several times, Trump said in Scotland. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said last week that Trump kicked Epstein out of his club years ago for being a creep. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A federal source told CBS News that the so-called missing minute in the jail video from the Manhattan Metropolitan Correctional Center, where Jeffrey Epstein died in 2019, may never have been missing. When the Department of Justice and FBI released nearly 11 hours of surveillance video earlier this month, viewers noticed a timestamp jump just before midnight, from 11:58:58 p.m. directly to 12:00:00 a.m. This prompted widespread speculation that footage was deliberately withheld, raising suspicions surrounding the billionaire sex traffickers true cause of death. However, in a report published on Tuesday, a government source claims that investigators, including the FBI, the Bureau of Prisons, and the DOJ Inspector General, have a copy of the footage that includes the intact time interval. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DOJ and FBI had publicly described the released surveillance as the full raw recording from the Special Housing Unit where Epstein was held. Anyone attempting to enter the tier would have been captured on video, officials say. What remains unclear is why part of the footage was missing from the FBIs release, even though officials described it as unedited. Officials added that the recording came from the the only functioning camera in the unit and cited it as key evidence supporting the conclusion that Epstein died by suicide. A government source tells CBS News that investigators have a version of the Epstein footage with the full time interval intact. (Getty) Attorney General Pam Bondi previously explained the timestamp gap as a result of an outdated system reset, typical of the prisons 1999 recording infrastructure, which she said caused a oneminute lapse every night. However, surveillance experts interviewed by CBS News described such nightly resets as highly unusual in modern systems. Video forensic analyst Jim Stafford told the outlet that metadata showed the footage was created on May 23 and appeared to be a screen capture rather than a direct export of the raw file. He also found that the video was actually two separate clips stitched together and slightly sped up, with 11 hours of footage condensed into about 10 hours and 53 minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican lawmakers, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Rep. Thomas Massie, are pushing for broader access, deepening GOP divisions over whether records should be unsealed. Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide on August 10, 2019, at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York City. (Florida Department of Law Enforcement) Internally, tensions have risen within the administration, with FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino reportedly clashing with Bondi over the files, and even considering resigning in protest. Despite DOJ denials of a "client list" or foul play, the controversy over the edited surveillance video has intensified public skepticism and calls for accountability. The Independent has contacted the FBI and Justice Department for comment. WEST FORK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) The FBI has joined the Arkansas State Police in the search for the suspect accused of killing two people at Devils Den State Park on Saturday. State Police say Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, of Prairie Grove, were killed while hiking with their two school-age daughters at the park on Saturday afternoon. The Brink family had recently moved to the area, according to Prairie Groves mayor. In a statement to Nexstars KNWA/KFTA on Monday, a spokesperson for the FBI said that while Arkansas State Police remains the lead in the investigation, the agencys Little Rock office has provided additional manpower and specialized resources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ASP described the suspect as a white male of medium build. Manhunt continues for Devils Den double homicide suspect, what to know The man was last seen wearing dark pants, a long-sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up, a dark ballcap, sunglasses, fingerless gloves, and carrying a black backpack. He was reportedly driving a black four-door sedan, possibly a Mazda, with the license plate obscured by electrical or duct tape. The vehicle was seen heading toward a park exit and may have traveled on State Highways 170 or 220. Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary Shea Lewis said the agency is working closely with ASP and has increased law enforcement presence in all state parks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Arkansas State Parks website says that all trails at Devils Den State Park are closed until further notice. The parks rugged terrain, thick vegetation and lack of cell service have complicated the search efforts, according to officials. Authorities are asking park visitors to review any cellphone, GoPro or camera footage from Saturday for possible images of the suspect. Residents near the park are also urged to check home security or game camera footage. Anyone with information about the suspect or his whereabouts should call ASP Troop L at (479) 751-6663. Mayor says couple killed at Devils Den recently moved to area According to State Police, the Brinks daughters, ages 7 and 9, were found physically unharmed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hiland Dairy confirmed to the Associated Press that Clinton Brink had transferred from its parent company, Prairie Farms Dairy, from South Dakota, and was scheduled to start his job as a driver delivering milk in the Fayetteville area on Monday. The family had also previously lived in California and Montana, according to reports. Clinton and Cristen died heroes protecting their little girls, and they deserve justice, the Brink family said in a statement provided to ABC News. They will forever live in all of our hearts. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here. Sign up for National Security, a newsletter featuring coverage of rising authoritarianism, military intelligence, and geopolitical conflicts. Michael Feinberg had not been planning to leave the FBI. But on May 31, he received a phone call from his boss asking him about a personal friendship with a former FBI agent who was known for criticizing President Donald Trump. Feinberg, an assistant special agent in charge at the FBIs field office in Norfolk, Virginia, realized right away that he was in the crosshairs of the bureaus leadership at an unusually chaotic time. If his 15-year career at the bureau was coming to an end, he wanted to depart with at least some dignity rather than being marched out the door. By the following afternoon, he had resigned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI has long seen itself as an organization built on expertise. Its founder, J. Edgar Hoover, was an early and devoted advocate of professionalizing the government bureaucracy, to the point of mandating that agents wear a dark suit and striped tie. Now, however, the bureau is in the early stages of something like a radical deprofessionalization. The most important quality for an FBI official to have now appears to be not competence but loyalty. The exiling of Feinberg and others like him is an effort to engineer and accelerate this transformation. Feinbergs boss, Special Agent in Charge Dominique Evans, didnt allege any misconduct on his part, Feinberg told me. Rather, as Feinberg set out in his resignation letter the following day, Evans explained that FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino had found out that Feinberg had maintained a friendship with the former counterintelligence agent Peter Strzok, a longtime target of Trumps ire. During Trumps first term, Strzok was fired from the FBIand became a recurring target of Fox News segmentsafter the Justice Department released text messages in which hed disparaged the president. Trump has repeatedly attacked him over his work on the bureaus 2016 investigation into Russian election interference (a topic of renewed interest for the president these days). The association between Feinberg and Strzok was enough for the bureau to cancel a potential promotion for Feinberg, he told me. Evans, Feinberg said, suggested that he might face demotion, and that he would soon have to take a polygraph test about his friendship with Strzok. He quit instead. (The FBI declined to comment on what it characterized as a personnel matter; when I reached out to Norfolk in hopes of speaking with Evans, the field office declined to comment as well.) [Listen: The wrecking of the FBI] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his resignation letter, Feinberg lamented the decay of the FBI. I recount those events more in sorrow than in anger, he wrote. I love my country and our Constitution with a fervor that mere language will not allow me to articulate, and it pains me that my profession will no longer entail being their servant. Since leaving the federal workforce, he has decided to speak outbecause, he told me, agents still at the bureau who fear retribution asked him to. Feinberg is now planning to spend time writing about these issues while helike many other government employees forced out by this administrationfigures out what to do next. In a recently published essay, he argued that the FBI has become obsessed with ideological purity and the ceaseless politicization of the workforce, which makes us all less safe. Feinbergs background is not that of an anti-Trump crusader. He was vice president of the Federalist Society chapter at Northwestern Law School, from which he graduated in 2004, and considers himself a conservative; today, he often uses the work of the conservative political philosopher Edmund Burke as a conversational reference point in discussions of politics. He joined the FBI in 2009, he told me, because he saw it as the best vehicle through which he could help protect both United States interests in the world and the rule of law on the domestic front. When he and I first met, sometime around the beginning of the first Trump administration, Feinberg was working on counterintelligence investigations against China. Such was his commitment to the job that he refused on principle to go visit the giant pandas loaned by the Chinese government to the National Zoo. Feinberg once trained as both a gymnast and a boxer, and still carries himself with a scrupulous economy of motion. He didnt talk about the details of his job much, but we turned out to share an interest in film noir and indie rock, subjects he approached with the same focus and intensity that he applied to matters of national security. I came to consider him a friend. At that point, he was already struggling to understand a conservative movement that seemed to have abandoned many of the principles that had attracted him in the first place. Trump, in his second term, has intensified his efforts to transform ostensibly apolitical institutions into tools of his own personal power. This is a dangerous strategy in whatever form it takes: Eating away at government expertise, whether at the National Weather Service or the Food and Drug Administration, places lives at risk. But Trumps personalist approach is particularly dangerous when applied to the agencies that can detain, prosecute, and imprison people. In a recent conversation, Feinberg recalled the sociologist Max Webers famous definition of the state as the entity with a monopoly on the legitimate use of force. Organizations like the FBI are the tool by which that force is exerted, he said. So you need them to be politically pure. Otherwise, the risk grows that the governments violence will be brought down on people who are disfavored by those in power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI does not have an impeccable track record in this area. In addition to his focus on technocratic institution-building, Hoover left behind an unsettled legacy of paranoia and bureaucratic power politics as well as a willingness to harass political enemies, from which the bureau has never quite managed to disentangle itself. Former FBI Director James Comey kept on his desk Hoovers approved application to wiretap Martin Luther King Jr., which the bureau planned to use as part of a campaign to drive the civil-rights leader to suicidea reminder, Comey said, of what happens when those in power lack constraint and oversight. Since Hoovers death, the FBI has built up thickets of procedures in an effort to avoid precisely this kind of political targeting. Yet an FBI without constraint or apolitical oversight is exactly what Trump wants, and what Bongino and FBI Director Kash Patel seem to be working toward. Trump launched his 2024 campaign by declaring to his supporters, I am your retribution, and in their previous lives as MAGA influencers, both Patel and Bongino voiced support for locking up the presidents opponents. Citing Justice Department sources, Fox News recently reported that the FBI has opened a criminal investigation into former intelligence chiefs who led the governments assessment of Russian election interference in 2016. In the first Trump administration, such a blatant use of the FBI for political ends would have been an unthinkable breach of law-enforcement independence. But the FBIs new leadership has been pushing out many of those who might object. So many people have been driven away, in fact, that after his departure, Feinberg found himself adopted by what he calls an exile community of former Justice Department and FBI officials working to help one another adjust to post-government life. Many have found support in the organization Justice Connection, founded by a longtime Justice Department lawyer to provide support for employees leaving the department. The sad thing, Feinberg told me, is that these exiles began their government careers with the purest and noblest of intentions. Theyre exactly the kind of public servants youd want steadying the tiller at a time like this, and therefore exactly the people whom Patel and Bongino sought to be rid of. Others who have so far escaped notice are counting down the days until they can retire. Feinberg worries about how this attrition will affect the FBIs culture going forward. He worries about the dwindling number of FBI agents with solid values who are still trying to hang on. Without old hands around to voice principled objections, newer and younger employees are going to become acculturated to a politicized bureau, he told me. That will seem normal to them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New agents will also arrive at a bureau much more directed toward prioritizing immigration arrests. Feinberg spent the first few months of the second Trump administration as his offices acting head, struggling to manage resources after agents were pulled into assisting with ICE roundups. In one instance, Feinberg became aware of a request from an FBI agent to purchase face coverings. Anxiety was building among agents over rumors of immigration officials being filmed and doxxed on social media, and ICE employees had begun hiding their identities. Now it seemed that FBI agents in Norfolk wanted to follow ICEs lead. I was absolutely furious, Feinberg told me. We live in a democracy. We are an organization that serves the public. We do not hide from our actions. He conferred with others in the offices leadership, and they agreed to quietly prohibit office funds from being spent on masks. [Brandon del P]ozo: Take off the mask, ICE As we spoke, Feinberg emphasized that he didnt necessarily object to the FBI being involved in immigration enforcement. Every president, he said, gets to choose how to direct the bureaus priorities. The problem is the way the Trump administration has chosen to use the FBI: taking agents trained for complex investigations and having them stand around looking scary while ICE conducts immigration arrests. This overlap of the FBI and ICE not only wastes resources, but actively undermines the bureaus ability to investigate the very gangs that Patel and Bongino have said they want to tackle. Why, after all, would any Latin American immigrant agree to cooperate with the FBI on taking down MS-13 or Tren de Aragua, if reaching out to law enforcement might well get them deported? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is also the question of what leads wont be pursued because of this focus on immigrationand because the FBIs leadership has pushed out the experts who knew how to do such work in the first place. Feinberg, who speaks Mandarin, helped spearhead the FBIs investigation into the Chinese technology giant Huawei, which the U.S. accused of stealing trade secrets from American companies. Now that hes gone, hes not sure whether anyone working in counterintelligence at senior levels of the bureau knows Chinese. Its particularly concerning to me, as someone who dedicated his professional career to combating the Chinese Communist Party and all of its tentacles, to see resources and efforts diverted away from hostile foreign intelligence services and other serious threats to the homeland to focus on minor immigration status offenses, Feinberg wrote in his recent essay. Earlier this month, Patel and Bongino found themselves tied up in the ever-widening Jeffrey Epstein scandal: Having hinted to the MAGA faithful at damning revelations only to come up empty-handed, theyre now struggling to explain themselves. When I asked Feinberg about this, he sounded more exasperated than anything. They get a kick out of playing dress-up and acting tough, he said. But they actually have no idea what theyre doing. Article originally published at The Atlantic Since 2017, employees of the Flagler County Sheriffs Office have donated approximately $204,000 in total, including $24,030 recently given to the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches. Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly presented the donation to FSYR President Maria Knapp at the Florida Sheriffs Association semi-annual meeting. This demonstrates the ongoing commitment of FCSO employees to support the youth-oriented organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches is committed to supporting at-risk children and offering them opportunities for growth and development. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Sentencing date scheduled for Highland sinus doctor A Highland sinus doctor faces an Oct. 30 sentencing after pleading guilty June 20 to health care fraud, filings show. Bethany Cataldi, 54, admitted in court filings she billed $22 million to Medicare and various insurance companies mostly for non-existent sinus procedures. As part of the plea, she will have to repay them, including nearly $9 million to Medicare. Court records allege the Center for Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery did this from March 2015 to December 2023. At least eight patients confirmed to investigators their operations never happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In total, Cataldis practice billed Medicaid for $16.5 million and got reimbursed for $9 million for over 1,800 balloon sinuplasty procedures an outpatient procedure used to treat chronic sinus infections. Investigators estimated she only had supplies for 100 patients. About 86% of the fraudulent claims for Medicare happened from December 2017 on. Hammond man sentenced after holding gun to roommates head A Hammond man was sentenced Tuesday to 18 months after he admitted holding an unloaded gun to his roommates head. Ranferi Cruz-Diaz, 33, pleaded guilty to being an unlawful or illegal alien in possession of a firearm, Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Proctor said in a release. The deal calls for 24 months on supervised release. The victim told police Cruz-Diaz was drunk and high when the incident happened. The events that led up to it are not immediately clear. mcolias@post-trib.com A federal court has rejected environmentalists bid to halt construction of the Crow Creek natural gas pipeline, clearing the way for the energy project to begin. The U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho denied the request for an injunction on Tuesday, siding with the Justice Department in the high-stakes legal battle. The ruling marks a significant victory for the Trump administrations energy agenda. The pipeline will transport natural gas from Idaho to Wyoming, crossing through the Caribou-Targhee National Forest along its route. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Justice Department, the project underwent a yearslong series of careful reviews and analyses before approval. The Forest Service completed a supplemental environmental impact statement supporting the pipeline last December. Environmental groups had sued to block the project, arguing that the environmental review was inadequate. But the court found they were unlikely to prove the government failed to properly consider potential impacts. The judge also concluded plaintiffs hadnt demonstrated a likelihood of irreparable harm from the project. This finding proved crucial in denying their request for emergency relief. The Justice Departments Environment and Natural Resources Division handled the case. Both the Natural Resources Section and Appellate Section secured the legal victory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Construction crews are expected to break ground this month. The timeline suggests developers moved quickly to capitalize on their court win. Environmental groups will likely continue fighting the pipeline through ongoing litigation. The Justice Department confirmed its attorneys will continue to handle the case as it proceeds. Students play on the playground at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in South Salt Lake on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch) Members of a network of 83 after-school programs in Utah were relieved to hear this month that the Trump administration would release frozen funds essential to run their programs. But, weeks of financial uncertainty have already resulted in cuts. Past the middle of July, amid a bipartisan push to release the funds, the Trump administration decided to release part of the $6.8 billion allocated for before- and after-school programs, as well as summer programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, after-school organizations in the state are preparing for change aligning with Trump policies. And, while the Utah State Board of Education has secured the funding, questions about the future of the program that serves about 10,000 children in the state remain unanswered. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The board is currently reviewing any additional requirements that may be attached to the funding, said Ben Trentelman, executive director at Utah Afterschool Network. Then, the state will be able to reimburse summer and after-school programs for their operational costs. It was referred to by the administration as guardrails to ensure that the programs were not implementing programming or activities that are counter to the focus of the administration, Trentelman said. And so I think that that does pertain to some things like diversity, equity and inclusion and similar areas. Utah already has a law restricting DEI initiatives in public institutions, which has led programs overseen by the board of education to pivot to ensure compliance with state code. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the administration change and the freeze, the programs followed requirements to qualify for the federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grants maintaining an average daily attendance, serving a certain minimum number of students, and ensuring the programs arent used for political activities, among others, Trentelman said. Now, word from other states is that there may be additional anti-DEI and U.S. citizenship requirements. The after-school program network hasnt seen any official guidance from the board, Trentelman said. The board didnt reply to an interview request from Utah News Dispatch. We still have a lot of questions about how programs are able to operate moving into the future, Trentelman said. We know that the funding is available, but were unsure about what guardrails may exist and how these programs are allowed to move forward. The programs dont currently ask for students citizenship status, aside from demographic surveys which include a question on refugee status. The citizenship question hasnt come up in Utah programs, but other states are already looking into the requirements legality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Something that I think is important is that when we think about inclusion, were really looking at ensuring that youth of all abilities have a place to go, that youth are able to participate in an after-school program, he said, regardless of their background, or ethnicity, or income, or any of those things. A challenging time After-school and summer programs have been alternatives for families looking for safe spaces for their children while they are busy with work or other responsibilities. Trentelman has watched how the stability and routine of the programs allow children to thrive in their educational paths. However, that stability was called into question with the funding unpredictability. Let us know what you think... A number of organizations were thrown into a bit of disarray as they were trying to navigate exactly how they could best move forward, he said. We did see some programs that did elect to reduce their staff size, or move staff to more limited hours. We did see some organizations that did shut down for the summer prematurely because they did not have the savings established to be able to support their operation without consistent payments on funds that they had been promised. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The uncertainty is extending beyond this year, even if the funding has been released. It was already difficult to keep a full staff with typically low-paying, entry-level positions. Wages for after-school staff start between $13 to $15 an hour, and the work week is usually 20 to 30 hours. (Providers) are faced with the additional challenge of the uncertainty of the field, knowing that funds may have come out for this year, but we still dont know whats happening in the next year, Trentelman said. People are going to be questioning the stability of entering this work. In an informal survey of the programs, Trentelman heard about four organizations, which manage about 15 programs, planning to reduce staff and program hours. That may hit rural communities the hardest, where there are fewer child care or after-school options. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Federal funding secured to assist Virginia farmers impacted by Hurricane Helene (WFXR)- U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner announced $60.9 million in federal funding to help Virginia farmers impacted by Hurricane Helene. The funding was awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The latter will distribute the funds to help repair and cover infrastructure, timber, and market losses. Read the full press release below: WARNER & KAINE ANNOUNCE $60.9 MILLION IN DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR FARMERS IN VIRGINIA WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $60,900,000 in federal funding to help farmers in Virginia recover from Hurricane Helene. This funding, awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, will be distributed to farmers to help repair and cover infrastructure, timber, and market losses from Hurricane Helene. The funding was included in the disaster relief package that the senators pushed to pass last December. Hurricane Helene was devastating to many in Virginia, and its critical that we help our farmers get back on their feet as quickly as possible, said the senators. Were glad this funding will provide needed support to farmers in rural Virginia. We will continue to do all we can to help every Virginian recover. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Warner and Kaine were vocal advocates for significant federal resources to support Virginias recovery, and both senators met with Virginians impacted by Hurricane Helene in Southwest Virginia. This March, Warner and Kaine joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins urging the USDA to quickly publish clear guidelines on administering disaster relief aid to farmers following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Immediately following the hurricanes, Warner and Kaine successfully urged the Biden Administration to submit a supplemental funding request to cover the costs associated with Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv. The state Board of Education met to approve $48 million in federal funds for outside-of-school education programs that the Trump administration had previously frozen. Other frozen funds for programs including English as a second language are expected to be approved soon. Getty Images. The Georgia Board of Education met briefly Tuesday to distribute $48.2 million in previously frozen federal funds to centers that provide summer and after-school programs for kids. Katie Landes, director of the Georgia Statewide Afterschool Network, celebrated the vote as a victory for students and parents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The release of the anticipated funds brings tremendous relief to schools and community-based programs statewide, Landes said in a statement. Maintaining consistent funding is essential for sustainable programming and reducing uncertainties, particularly just days before the school year starts for many. The funds for the programs, called 21st Century Community Learning Centers, came under question at the end of June, when the Trump administration announced it would freeze $6.8 billion in federal funds nationwide. The pauses which were announced one day before the money was supposed to go out also included dollars for migrant education, English as a second language, college and career counseling and others. The Trump administration has signaled plans to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and return its duties to the states, though abolishing it entirely would require an act of Congress. The freeze sparked bipartisan condemnation, including in the form of a letter signed by 10 Republican senators to Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought urging the funding be restored. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 18, the administration announced it would release the first part of the funds for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program, and the Department of Education unfroze the rest of the funds a week later. Stan DeJarnett, who chairs the state board of education, indicated he expects the board to vote to approve the remainder of those unfrozen funds soon. Even though the remaining federal funds were announced last Friday that they would be released, we dont have actual fund amounts for these different categories. So thats the reason they are not on this mornings agenda. So we may be back having this meeting again very soon once we get some more guidance on the amount of the appropriation in each of those federal fund categories. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE On June 18, human remains were found near Rocky Mountain National Park's Alpine Ridge Trail in the area of the park's high-elevation Alpine Visitor Center. This prompted an investigation into the situation, with additional details being released in the case about a month later. (John Moore/Getty Images) This story was updated at 11:18 a.m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 to include a statement from The Cigna Group. A federal judge blocked Arkansas first-in-the-nation law regulating pharmacy benefit managers, stating in Mondays order that it likely violates the U.S. Constitutions commerce clause and is likely preempted by a veterans health care program. Act 624 of 2025 would have banned pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from holding a permit to operate a drug store in Arkansas after Jan. 1, 2026. PBMs negotiate prescription benefits among drug manufacturers, distributors, pharmacies and health insurance providers, and the biggest ones also own pharmacies and insurers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four PBMs, including the three largest in the nation, and the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association (PCMA) filed four challenges to Act 624 between May and June. The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas combined the four complaints into one case. Both sides presented their arguments to U.S. District Judge Brian Miller on Wednesday. In Mondays 17-page order, Miller granted the plaintiffs request for a preliminary injunction, and the case is expected to go to trial. Miller agreed with the plaintiffs attorneys that Act 624 violates the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution because it appears to overtly discriminate against plaintiffs as out of state companies and the state has failed to show that it has no other means to advance its interests, he wrote. Act 624 preliminary injunction Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is true because section one of Act 624 specifically states that its purpose is to eliminate plaintiffs business tactics that have driven locally-operated pharmacies out of business, Miller wrote. Although the state argues that it is merely targeting a form of business structure, this appears to only be a half-truth because the statute discloses that the state is also attempting to protect locally-operated pharmacies as opposed to just consumers and non-PBM affiliated pharmacies, including out of state non-PBM affiliated pharmacies like Walgreens. Miller called Act 624 Arkansas latest and most aggressive attempt to regulate PBMs in recent years. Act 900 of 2015 required PBMs to pay pharmacies at least the national average of what drugstores pay wholesalers for drugs, and two 2018 laws prohibited PBMs from reimbursing their affiliated pharmacies in Arkansas at a higher rate than their locally owned competitors. An additional statute prohibits PBMs from excluding a pharmacy from a health benefit plan if the pharmacy is willing to accept the health benefit plans operating terms and conditions. Lawmakers, state insurance department officials, independent pharmacists and the Arkansas Pharmacists Association have repeatedly claimed that PBMs routinely violate Act 900 and the 2018 statutes, creating a struggle for independent pharmacies in rural areas to remain operational. However, based on the evidence in the record, it appears that these laws are sufficient for the state to achieve its stated purposes of curtailing plaintiffs business tactics and minimizing the conflicts of interest inherent in PBM-affiliated pharmacies, Miller wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also agreed with plaintiff Express Scripts claim that Act 624 impedes its mail-order pharmacys requirement to provide prescription medication to members of the military, their families and veterans in Arkansas. ESI Mail Pharmacy Inc. is the primary mail-order pharmacy provider for Tricare, the militarys health insurance program. Act 624 allows the state pharmacy board to issue limited permits to PBMs if they provide drugs that are otherwise unavailable in the market to a patient or a pharmacy that would otherwise be prohibited under the law. Daniel Volchok, Express Scripts attorney, said last week that this provision is insufficient because it covers only a subset of medications approved by the Department of Defense for Tricare participants. The plaintiffs attorneys made several other arguments for an injunction that Miller said did not have merit. In one such argument, an attorney for OptumRx, one of the three largest PBMs along with Express Scripts and CVS Caremark, argued that Act 624 violates the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. The law, known as ERISA, sets certain standards for employee benefit plans, but Act 624 does not regulate PBMs in their capacity as employee benefit plan administrators and instead simply regulates pharmacy licensure, Miller wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Iowa law meant to regulate PBMs was partially blocked in federal court last week because its mandates of certain cost-sharing arrangements between pharmacies and PBMs potentially violated ERISA, according to the judges ruling. Similarly to Arkansas, supporters of the new Iowa law said it would help rural and small pharmacies remain in business. Miller also rejected the plaintiffs argument that Act 624 is an unconstitutional bill of attainder, meaning it imposes a legislative punishment without due process. He said the law does not name specific plaintiffs even though it targets a very narrow group. While Act 624 is tainted by its protectionist rhetoric so much as to render it unconstitutional under the Commerce Clause, it was not enacted in a wholly arbitrary manner, Miller wrote. CVS Health, which includes plaintiff CVS Caremark, expressed opposition to Act 624 during this years legislative session and said the law would force the companys 23 Arkansas pharmacies to close. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement Monday, CVS Health praised Millers ruling and said it is actively looking to work together with the state to reduce drug prices and ensure access to pharmacies. The Cigna Group, which owns Express Scripts, also praised the ruling in a Tuesday statement. We appreciate the Court acting to protect Arkansans access to their pharmacies, Chief Legal Officer Andrea Nelson said. Every day, our nurses, pharmacists and other dedicated team members provide care to Arkansas patients that cant be easily replaced, and we will continue doing everything we can to protect Arkansas patients access to care and affordable medicines. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A federal judge in Massachusetts allowed Planned Parenthood to continue receiving Medicaid reimbursements in an order signed on Monday, despite Congress passing a law that would end those payments. The ruling is in response to the nonprofits lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services over a provision included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that took away Medicaid funding for one year from corporations that offer abortions and received over $800,000 in Medicaid funding in 2023. Judge Indira Talwani in the Federal District Court in Massachusetts wrote in her order that patients were likely to suffer adverse health consequences where care is disrupted or unavailable if the law were to be imposed. Her ruling indefinitely blocked the federal reimbursement freeze. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court finds that the constitutional harm to Members and the health consequences Medicaid patients who forego or cannot obtain care may suffer without a preliminary injunction outweigh any financial harm that Defendants might incur if they are wrongly enjoined, Talwani wrote. The order is a continuation of her ruling last week that allowed Planned Parenthood to continue receiving Medicaid funds for procedures that arent abortions. Talwani said that the removal of funding ultimately violates the nonprofits First Amendment rights by punishing Planned Parenthood for offering abortion services. Planned Parenthood Federation of America, with Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts and Planned Parenthood Association of Utah, filed the lawsuit against the Trump administration on July 7, arguing that The Defund Provision is a naked attempt to leverage the governments spending power to attack and penalize Planned Parenthood and impermissibly single it out for unfavorable treatment. The Planned Parenthood Salt Lake Health Center in Salt Lake City is pictured on Tuesday, June 6, 2023. | Spenser Heaps, Deseret News It does so not only because of Planned Parenthood Members long history of providing legal abortions to patients across the country, but also because of Planned Parenthoods unique role in advocating for policies to protect and expand access to sexual and reproductive health care, including abortion, the lawsuit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shireen Ghorbani, interim president at the Planned Parenthood Association of Utah, praised the latest ruling in a press release: We are grateful that now all Planned Parenthood patients with Medicaid can come to their local health centers for the high-quality, essential care they need. Generations have relied on Planned Parenthood as experts in sexual and reproductive health care and as a welcoming and trusted provider in their communities. We will continue this fight in the courts to protect our patients freedom to get the care they need. Utah Sen. Mike Lee, who voted for President Donald Trumps tax bill, criticized Talwanis ruling. Was Congress supposed to seek permission from this judge before passing a law halting payments to Planned Parenthood? he posted on X. I cant seem to find that provision of the Constitution. Any thoughts on where one might find it? Was Congress supposed to seek permission from this judge before passing a law halting payments to Planned Parenthood? I cant seem to find that provision of the Constitution Any thoughts on where one might find it? https://t.co/E67oS3AHa0 Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) July 28, 2025 He also responded to the post of his colleague, Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat. After a Texas-based company that helped evacuate people from war-torn Haiti in 2024 sued the state of Florida for nonpayment, a federal judge in Tallahassee wants to know why the case shouldn't be thrown out. TAD Recovery Services, LLC, filed the lawsuit July 24 in the Northern District of Florida, court dockets show. It's owed more than $7.5 million, its complaint says. On July 26, U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle issued an order to the plaintiff to show cause why the case shouldn't be dismissed because of a lack of federal jurisdiction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grounds to sue in federal court include a question of federal law or a case in which the parties are from different states, known as diversity jurisdiction. Senior U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle of Tallahassee. But "the complaint asserts a state-law claim against a state agency," the Division of Emergency Management (DEM), Hinkle wrote. "... (F)or diversity purposes, a state or state agency that is jurisdictionally equivalent to the state is not a citizen of any state, so diversity jurisdiction does not exist over an action by or against such an entity." He gave TAD Recovery till Aug. 11 to respond. A request for comment is pending. The company said it moves materials, supplies and personnel in and out of various locations around the USA and elsewhere in the world, often on an emergency basis due to catastrophic weather situations and/or rapidly developing geopolitical conflicts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its complaint said DEM contacted the company in March 2024 to get involved with helping to evacuate children from the Tim Tebow Foundation in Haiti. That morphed into DEM asking the company to provide broader services related to evacuating Floridians and other people from Haiti. Gov. Ron DeSantis said in an April 24, 2024, news release that the state had rescued 722 Americans from Haiti. The News Service of Florida contributed to this report. Jim Rosica is a member of the USA TODAY Network Florida Capital Bureau. Reach him at jrosica@tallahassee.com and follow him on Twitter/X: @JimRosicaFL. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Judge questions jurisdiction in Texas firms Florida payment suit UTAH (ABC4) A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction against a Trump Administration law that prevented Planned Parenthood and other family planning health centers from billing for Medicaid services. Earlier this month, the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts, and Planned Parenthood Association of Utah filed a lawsuit against the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The lawsuit was filed against Section 71113, a provision within H.R.1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, that restricted Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicaid reimbursement for services provided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Section 71113 specifically prohibits federal Medicaid funding for one year to nonprofit health care providers if the provider primarily furnishes family planning services, reproductive health, and related care, offers abortions in cases other than that of rape, incest, or life-threatening conditions for the woman; and (3) in FY2023, received federal and state Medicaid payments totaling more than $800,000. Planned Parenthood argued that the law was unconstitutionally vague and violated the First Amendment and Due Process rights of Planned Parenthood and its members, according to court documents. The United States Department of Health and Human Services argued that Section 71113 was consistent with, electoral mandates from the American people as to how they want their hard-earned taxpayer dollars spent. Last week, a temporary injunction was filed to ensure that some of Planned Parenthoods members, including the Planned Parenthood Association of Utah, could continue to receive funding. According to Planned Parenthood, those members cannot provide abortions because of state abortion bans, or [who] received less than $800,000 in Medicaid reimbursements in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 28, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani decided to issue a preliminary injunction. The injunction ensures that all Planned Parenthood health centers can continue to be reimbursed for services rendered under Medicaid and allows their patients to go through Medicaid for their services, regardless of services rendered or amount of previous Medicaid reimbursements. In her ruling, Judge Talwani said, Patients are likely to suffer adverse health consequences where care is disrupted or unavailable. She also found that Section 71113 could damage Planned Parenthoods public image and their ability to advocate for their business and services, which would violate their First Amendment rights. The injunction does not affect any future decisions on funding allocation within Congress. It also does not allocate any additional funding to Planned Parenthood, besides what the federal government has already designated for Medicaid or other funds, according to the court documents. Shireen Ghorbani, the Interim President of Planned Parenthood Association of Utah, noted that Planned Parenthood offers medical services, including contraceptive care, prenatal care, STI and cancer screening and treatment. She told ABC4, Planned Parenthood generally is a vital and essential piece of the healthcare fabric of this nation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ghorbani also said, To eliminate patients choices, their freedom to be able to go to a Planned Parenthood to receive the care, the expert care they have relied on, is simply unacceptable to us. Notably, this is a temporary injunction. It does ensure that Planned Parenthood has access to previously allocated funds but does not remove Section 71113 from H.R.1. MJ Jewkes contributed to this story. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. NEED TO KNOW On Friday, July 25, the Los Angeles Times reported that federal agents raided a property linked to Robert Shinn, the subject of Netflixs 2024 docuseries Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult The outlet reported that the search was related to multiple allegations, including sex trafficking and money laundering. Shinn is one of several people associated with the house The Netflix series examined two of Shinns organizations: his Shekinah Church and social media management company 7M Films Federal agents have raided a property associated with Robert Shinn, the Shekinah Church pastor featured in Netflix's 2024 docuseries Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult, according to the Los Angeles Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Citing authorities, the outlet reported that the raid on Friday, July 25, was related to an investigation into multiple accusations, including sex trafficking and money laundering. Shinn is one of several owners linked to the house, which is located in the Tujunga neighborhood of California. The Netflix series examined two institutions headed by Shinn: his Shekinah Church and social media management company 7M Films, which he ran with his son Isaiah and wife Hannah. Shinn and 7M films came under scrutiny in 2022, when 7M dancer Miranda Derrick's family publicly claimed she was in a cult and being kept from speaking to or seeing them. Netflix Robert Shinn in 'Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult.' Robert Shinn in 'Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult.' Other families, former dancers for 7M Films and ex-members of the Shekinah Church, followed with similar allegations against Shinn and his organizations. Their accusations range from sexual abuse to financial misconduct, labor violations, alienation and coercive control all of which Shinn, his associates, 7M and the Shekinah Church vehemently deny. Per the L.A. Times, the El Monte Police Department and the FBI assisted agents from the U.S. Postal Service, Internal Revenue Service and U.S. Department of Labor, who served a warrant at the property around 6 a.m. PST. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The news report also included a prepared statement by Postal Inspector Patricia Mendoza, who said officials intend to release more details as the investigation progresses. U.S. Postal Inspection Service is working closely with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners on this ongoing investigation. This remains an active case, and we are continuing to gather and review information, he said. On Friday, the L.A. Times cited law enforcement sources familiar with the investigation who said the warrant was linked to the alleged 7M cult, though further details are currently restricted under seal in federal court. Sources also told the outlet that as of July 25, there had been no related arrests. Read the original article on People (FOX40.COM) Feeding the Foothills, formerly known as the Placer County Food Bank, is speaking out against major federal funding cuts. Earlier this month, President Donald Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill into law, reducing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding by 20%. Feeding the Foothills (FTF) representatives say as a result, they expect to lose $1 million in funding. In 2023, nearly 45% of California adults reported struggling to afford food. Over 10% of residents in El Dorado and Placer counties, and 12% in Nevada County, are food insecure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Representatives of the food bank view it as a deeply harmful bill, with tens of thousands of locals now expected to face even greater food insecurity. Knowing that there are children out there today who were benefiting but will now go to school hungry really breaks my heart, because I was that hungry child, said Kayla Scott, Feeding the Foothills advocate and former CalFresh recipient. This past year, FTF has served one million people. We expect our agency partners to have more demand at our pantries and mobile food sites and we expect more people to come and have a need, said Johnny Chavez, Associate Director of FTF Programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hunger has no face, said Jeremy Tafua, FTF Programs and Volunteer Manager. The need is always there, and its always growing. With the 20% increase in the cost of food, theyve also seen a decline in donations. Scott detailed how food benefits helped her: Without that, my family wouldnt survive, she said. That allowed me to get an education, to better myself, and to pull myself out of poverty. Her 73-year-old mother still receives CalFresh benefits. My mom is also diabetic, which means a lot of her very, very limited fixed income goes toward medical costsleaving even less for food. Despite the cuts, FTF says it will continue working to find solutions for residents in need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fox40 reached out to the USDA for comment but has not yet received a response. Click this link to learn more. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. By Courtney Rozen WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Trump administration will require U.S. states to spend part of their federal terrorism prevention funds on helping the government arrest migrants, the Federal Emergency Management Agency said. The Tuesday announcement represents President Donald Trump's latest effort to apply federal funding for states to the arrest of migrants. Congress established the Homeland Security Grant Program before Trump took office to help states prepare for and respond to terrorist attacks. FEMA, overseen by the Homeland Security Department, has a mission of helping states address disasters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Trump is keeping his promise to make and keep America safe," a spokesperson for U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in response to a question from Reuters on Wednesday about whether Congress intended the money be spent on arrest of migrants. States say they have used the money previously to buy security cameras, firefighting foam equipment and computers. All 50 states receive the funds annually. States must spend at least 10% of their funds from the Homeland Security Grant Program on enforcing immigration laws against all inadmissible and removable aliens, according to the FEMA announcement. They can use it for tasks in support of Trump's executive order on immigration, including to construct detention facilities or set up partnerships between police officers and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, FEMA said. It said states have until August 11 to apply for their portion of $373.3 million. (Reporting by Courtney Rozen; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Howard Goller) FAIRMONT, W.Va. (WBOY) The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Small Business Administration (SBA) have opened their disaster recovery offices in Fairmont to assist those affected by the Fathers Day Flood this past June. FEMA is located within the East Side Fire Department, at 1020 Morgantown Avenue, with employees inside to help victims fill out assistance applications. FEMA and SBA disaster recovery center. (WBOY image) 12 News reached out to officials of FEMA for an interview or comment on how long the agency will be in Fairmont and what the application process looks like, but has not received a reply as of this publication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While SBA employees are also located inside the fire department, the administration also has another office set up inside Fairmont State Universitys Falcon Center in room 304. The SBA assists homeowners, renters, private nonprofits, and small businesses with physical damage loans and economic impact loans specifically for small businesses and private nonprofits. Missing man found dead at West Virginia park In an interview with 12 News, SBA Public Affairs Specialist Stephen Clark explained the importance of offering help to the area after the devastation that came with the flooding. We want people to have the ability to rebuild, we want communities to rebuild and have thriving populations, have the economy going, and have people have opportunities to earn a living. I guess most importantly, we really encourage people that since theres no obligation, no application fee, the sooner you can put in your application, you can find out what youd be eligible to receive and then you can find out what you want to do because you dont have to take any of this assistance. Clark said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When visiting an SBA disaster recovery center, Clark recommended that the only thing youd need to bring would be a photo ID, and the customer service representatives can assist you from there. You can also apply for an SBA loan online or call 800-659-2655 for more information. There is no application fee or obligation to take the loan. The SBAs loan applications and disaster recovery centers will be open until Sept. 22, though those interested in applying are recommended to do so earlier rather than later. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. At least six people were shot Monday, and a police officer was killed when a suspected gunman unleashed a barrage of gunfire inside a midtown Manhattan office building that houses the Blackstone investment firm and the headquarters of the NFL. Two police officers were shot, including the one who died, sources told Fox News. The off-duty officer was working security in the building. Four other people were also killed and the shooter died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said. "Five innocent people shot tonight, we lost four souls to another senseless act of gun violence," New York City Mayor Adams said during a news conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surveillance images captured the gunman wearing sunglasses and holding what appeared to be a rifle outside the building. Times Square Food Cart Vendor Shot After Dispute With Group Of Young People The gunman was armed with a rifle and first opened fire in the lobby of the building on 52nd Street and Park Avenue. He went to another floor and shot people there, sources told Fox News, before going up to the 33rd floor and shooting himself. Read On The Fox News App 2 Teens Shot Near Nycs Stonewall Inn After Pride March: Police During the chaos, people inside the building were hiding on different floors, the kitchen and bathrooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NYPD and Sheriff's Department officers in protective gear were seen with guns drawn, Fox New York reported. "New Yorkers: there is an active shooter investigation taking place in Midtown right now," New York City Mayor Eric Adams wrote on X. "Please take proper safety precautions if you are in vicinity and do not go outside if you are near Park Avenue and East 51st Street." Officers were sweeping the building to see if a second shooter was present. The city's emergency notification system told followers to expect traffic and mass transit disruptions. New York attorney General Letitia James said she "praying for our law enforcement and the New Yorkers impacted in the shooting situation this evening in Manhattan." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said that FBI New York Field Office management personnel and agents were responding to provide support at the active crime scene. "The FBI is on scene at the Manhattan crime scene," he wrote. "The NYPD currently has the lead in this investigation. Our personnel are there to support their efforts. Motive is currently under investigation." Jay Clayton, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, has set up a command post to assist the NYPD and FBI agents at the scene, Attorney General Pam Bondi said. Original article source: NYPD officer killed, among 5 shot in NYC shooting; gunman dead at Blackstone building Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., expressed support for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's apprehension of illegal alien child sex offenders, while Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., advocated for the individuals to face the death penalty. ICE noted in a Monday press release that it "arrested 214 illegal aliens for immigration offenses in the Houston area in the past six months who have been charged or convicted of a sex offense involving a minor." "I dont support or agree with all of ICEs tactics or actions. I do fully support moves like these. This makes our nation more secure and all our children safer," Fetterman said in a post on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ice Arrests Over 200 Illegal Alien Child Sex Offenders In Houston Area In Past 6 Months Responding to the news about the ICE arrests, Luna said in a post on X, "Skip deportation. Go directly to the death penalty. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200." According to the Ice press release, one of the individuals arrested was "Jose Guadalupe Meza, a 40-year-old, four-time deported criminal alien from Mexico who was arrested June 24 and has been convicted of theft and sexual assault of a child. ICE removed Guadalupe Meza to Mexico June 25." Read On The Fox News App Gisele Fetterman Admits She Wouldnt Be Supportive' Of Her Husband John Running For Higher Office Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The news comes amid the Trump administration's crackdown on border and immigration enforcement. Fetterman has previously expressed support for ICE's work, describing any calls for the abolition of the agency as "inappropriate" as well as "outrageous." Democrat John Fetterman Declares Support For Ice, Condemning Any Calls For Abolition As Outrageous "Bringing together the resources and expertise of the entire federal law enforcement community to confront the overwhelming surge of illegal immigration that we saw over the past four years has resulted in the arrest and removal of historic numbers of violent criminal aliens, transnational gang members and child sex offenders," ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Houston acting field office director Paul McBride noted, according to the press release. Original article source: Fetterman cheers ICE arrests of illegal alien child sex offenders, Luna calls for death penalty Surgery without anesthetic?! It happened all the time before this man's feat The couple named their daughter as a tribute to the nation that protected them, friends of the couple shared on social media. Gelienor Jimmy Leano Pacheco, 34, a Philippines-born caregiver for an elderly man on Kibbutz Nir Oz, was abducted on October 7 and released in the November 2023 hostage deal. His love for Israel remained strong even after his return to his home country; so much that his newborn daughter was named in its honor. On Tuesday, Pachecos wife, Clarice, gave birth to a daughter. The couple named the baby Israela. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The couple named their daughter as a tribute to the nation that protected them, friends of the couple shared on social media. Nearly two years ago, Pacheco was abducted after the elderly man he cared for,Amitai Ben Zvi, 80, was murdered in his home amidst the October 7th massacre. When they took me, I never expected theyd bring me back alive, Pacheco said after he was freed in the first ceasefire in late November 2023. Pacheco fought to survive for his family Through his captivity, Pacheco fought to survive for his family. He shared after his release that out of desperation, he had turned to any food option he could, including eating toilet paper dampened by water on the walls. He did this in order to survive long enough to see his three other children again. The Kibbutz Nir Oz community lost many people, when over 100 residents and some 15 foreign agricultural workers were killed in the massacre, according to the IDF. About 80 more were taken captive, with many others still remaining in captivity almost two years later. (COLORADO SPRINGS) The Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) said after a two-week deployment, CSFDs fire crews have returned. According to CSFD, a crew was deployed to assist with the Turner Gulch Fire in western Colorado. As of Monday, July 28, the Turner Gulch Fire was 54% contained. The CSFD crew was deployed to the Turner Gulch Fire for two weeks. Courtesy: Colorado Springs Fire Department Courtesy: Colorado Springs Fire Department Were proud of the work they did and grateful theyre home safe to their families, wrote CSFD. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. TROTWOOD, Ohio (WDTN) A fire Tuesday morning in Trotwood has displaced four people. According to Trotwood Fire Department Chief Rick Haacke, the fire began around 4:30 a.m. at an apartment complex on the 50 block of Friendship Circle. Crews found that the residence was fully engulfed upon their arrival. The two front units are a total loss. Theres gonna be four people displaced in this, Haacke said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A mother and her baby were inside of the complex at the time of the fire, but were able to escape thanks to their fire detector. Red Cross was contacted to help those displaced. No one required transport to the hospital. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The city of Trotwood Fire Department installs smoke detectors for free; click here for more information. The property manager of the apartment complex said that impacted residents are being provided temporary housing on site until more permanent housing can be made. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. (Photo by krisanapong detraphiphat/Getty Images) A former investment officer with the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System alleges he was wrongly fired after reporting the states pension system was routinely overstating its performance, concealing certain expenses and understating its investment risk. Rich Wiggins is suing the State of Iowa in Polk County District Court, claiming wrongful discharge and violations of the states False Claims Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the lawsuit, Wiggins was hired by the State of Iowa in June 2022 as the investment risk and operations officer for the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System. In that role, Wiggins replaced Sriram Lakshminarayanan, who moved into the role of IPERS chief investment officer. According to the lawsuit, Wiggins was the head of risk and strategy for Saudi Aramco, the second largest company in the world, before joining IPERS. Wiggins duties as IPERS investment risk officer included risk management and monitoring the performance of IPERS $40 billion investment portfolio. One of his other duties, according to the lawsuit, was to monitor the conduct of Lakshminarayanan although Lakshminarayanan had the authority to terminate the employment of Wiggins without cause. In his lawsuit, Wiggins states that he was tasked with ensuring that IPERS did not become the next Pennsylvania State Employees Retirement System. In 2021, Pennsylvanias largest pension fund was at the center of a large scandal and criminal investigation that was tied to the overstatement of its yearly investment returns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shortly after Wiggins was hired, Lakshminarayanan allegedly attempted to move Wiggins to a different role, reportedly explaining that we dont need a risk officer because we dont have any risk. The lawsuit alleges that assertion was false in that IPERS has more private equity, hedge funds and leveraged products than a typical pension fund, and thus has more risk. Wiggins soon discovered that the pension systems reporting was riddled with errors, the lawsuit alleges. The three biggest problems, according to the lawsuit, were IPERS risk reporting, a benchmarking process intended to measure returns on investments, and the understatement of management fees and expenses. Lawsuit: State board given false information In the fall of 2022, the lawsuit alleges, Wiggins shared with Lakshminarayanan his concerns about IPERS investment and bookkeeping practices. He also shared data with colleagues who are experts in the field and, according to the lawsuit, they, too, believed IPERS measure of risk appeared to be flawed and did not represent a true measure of actual risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In October 2022, Wiggins authored a memo suggesting that IPERS bring in an outside consultant to verify its risk calculations. Although the memo allegedly generated no response, Wiggins then began regularly informing Lakshminarayanan that the output of the risk calculations appeared incorrect and could not be verified. Some of the risky strategies employed by IPERS would lead to the fund doing especially badly in poor market conditions, the lawsuit claims, adding that Lakshminarayanan and IPERS CEO Gregory Samorajski engaged in multiple strategies to make it appear that IPERS funds were doing better than they actually were. Wiggins alleges Lakshminarayanan and Samorajski presented information to the states Investment Board that was misleading in part by concealing fees that were paid by burying them within transactional costs so they could not be itemized. Lakshminarayanan and Samorajski submitted the false information to the board and then asked for additional compensation in the form of bonuses, the lawsuit alleges. IPERS is, in fact, paying egregiously high fees, the lawsuit claims. The benchmark goals for the fund were manipulated to make it appear the fund is doing better than it truly is. The benchmark is designed to be just below the returns that are reported. A huge swath of the portfolio is benchmarked directly to itself so it is impossible to underperform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit claims this surreptitious use of easy-to-beat benchmarks by which IPERS investment performance was measured was at best, a form of engineered outperformance and, at worst, rank intentional misrepresentation. On Feb. 2, 2023, Wiggins was fired after just seven months on the job, the lawsuit alleges, adding that the reason he was given at the time was that he was a bad fit for IPERS. IPERS did not replace him, the lawsuit claims, so currently there is no investment risk officer. In effect, (Lakshminarayanan) acts as the risk officer, which is contrary to best practices, the lawsuit alleges. As part of his lawsuit, Wiggins claims that by attempting to get IPERS to accurately report risk, fees, and investment performance to the board and to the public, he was attempting to bring an end to violations of the states False Claims Act. The state, he alleges, retaliated against him by firing him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit also alleges his termination was ran counter to public interest in that his pointing out irregularities concerning risk and risk reporting was intended to support the states pension system and its statutory goals. The State of Iowa has yet to file a response to the lawsuit. A spokesperson for the Iowa Attorney Generals Office did not respond to requests for comment on the matter. State records indicate that in 2024, Lakshminarayanan was paid $351,184 in salary, and that Samorajski was paid $239,950. According to IPERS, Lakshminarayanan has a bachelors degree in mechanical engineering from Pondicherry University, India, and a masters degree in industrial and manufacturing systems engineering from Ohio University. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE 34 residents displaced after 3-alarm apartment fire in east Charlotte Multiple people were forced to evacuate their homes in the middle of the night after a three-alarm fire set their apartment complex ablaze early Tuesday morning. Sixty firefighters responded to the fire which started around 2:30 a.m. at the Oasis at Regal Oaks on English Hills Drive near Albemarle Road, according to Charlotte Fire. ALSO READ >> Hoarder conditions fuel two-alarm fire in north Charlotte, officials say Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Channel 9s Eli Brand was on the scene of the fire Tuesday morning and observed extensive damage to the roof of the apartment. I was scared, one resident, Sophia Castillo, said. I was also worried because I felt the heat coming from my apartment, and I mean, I have never seen that. Charlotte Fire said the fire got so bad that they had to call for backup twice. MEDIC said two people and one small kitten had to be rescued from the building, but no one was transported to the hospital. One resident said she used to be a volunteer firefighter and was thinking of the people in the building when the flames started. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youre not thinking about yourself, youre thinking about anybody who was in that building, Linda Wallace said. Thank God there was no one in there that got hurt. Firefighters stayed at the complex for hours putting out hot spots and investigating what happened. For people who live there, they just hope it doesnt happen again. It could have been me, Castillo said. Thats what I keep thinking. The American Red Cross is responding to the incident to provide support for the 34 people who have been displaced. Investigators say they are still working to determine the cause of the fire and the full extent of the damages. This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates. VIDEO: Juvenile arrested in connection with 3-alarm fire at Charlotte grocery store Dozens of intense wildfires have swept across parts of Greece and Turkey, as sweltering conditions continued to push temperatures well into the triple digits, The New York Times reported. In Turkey, a rapidly spreading fire forced the evacuation of 3,500 people as flames neared Bursa, the country's fourth-largest city, the Associated Press reported. "We are going through risky days," said Ibrahim Yumakli, Turkey's agriculture and forestry minister, per the Times. What's happening? In Turkey, firefighters battled more than 80 separate blazes, while in Greece, officials deployed almost 500 firefighters in an effort to slow five major fires, the Times reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rapidly spreading fires in the hills outside Bursa in northwest Turkey forced the closure of the highway to the capital Ankara, according to the AP report. Turkey had deployed over 1,900 firefighting personnel to the region. The fires had resulted in the deaths of at least one firefighter and two others, per the AP. Meanwhile, in Greece, a massive wildfire outside Athens forced the evacuation of an entire village, while beaches on the popular island of Kythira were emptied as blazes spread there, the Times said. Greek officials said the multiple fires had strained resources to the breaking point, with a fire-service spokesperson saying that, if "there had been another two or three fires like the one near Athens," the service would have been unable to adequately respond, per the Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials expect the high risk of fire to continue through October. "We must do all we can to restrict every possible risk," said Giannis Kefalogiannis, Greece's climate crisis and civil protection minister, per the Times. "We have injured firefighters, human lives were put at risk, homes were burned and forestland destroyed." Do you worry about air pollution in your town? All the time Often Only sometimes Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. The wildfires come after months of record high temperatures have baked broad swathes of the European continent, leaving vegetation parched and conditions ripe for fires to start and to spread rapidly. Why is Europe having so many wildfires? Europe is the fastest-heating continent in the world, and this summer has shown why. Europe just concluded its hottest June on record, with temperatures in some areas soaring to as high as 114 degrees Fahrenheit, according to Al Jazeera. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond increasing the risk of wildfires, which burn homes, devastate communities, shutter businesses, and destroy lives, the extreme heat itself also poses a direct threat to public health. A heat wave that swept the continent from June 23 to July 2 resulted in 2,300 heat-related deaths across 12 European cities, found an analysis by researchers at Imperial College London. Of these deaths, the study's authors attributed 1,500 to rising global temperatures. "Climate change has made it significantly hotter than it would have been, which in turn makes it a lot more dangerous," said Ben Clarke, a researcher at Imperial College London, per Reuters. What's being done about wildfires in Europe? In the immediate term, taking fire-mitigation measures like banning outdoor fires and other risky activities while ramping up firefighting resources can help to mitigate the impact that rising temperatures are having on wildfire severity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the only way to avoid the worst impacts of rising global temperatures is to significantly reduce the amount of heat-trapping pollution entering the atmosphere. While it is impossible to tie any single severe weather event to human causes, scientists have warned for decades that, as global temperatures rise, the magnitude of severe weather events also will increase. Significantly cutting back on planet-heating pollution will require cooperation at the international and national levels, as well as large-scale collaborations between government and industry. However, there still are plenty of actions that individuals can take every day to reduce planet-heating pollution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walking, riding a bicycle, taking public transit, or driving an EV are all great ways to improve local air quality while combating rising global temperatures. To take things a step further and maximize the environmental impact and cost savings of driving an EV, you can install solar panels on your home. Charging an EV off home solar is cheaper than doing so off the grid or at public charging stations, while also ensuring your vehicle is powered with cleaner, renewable energy from the sun. EnergySage offers free tools that make it easy to compare quotes among vetted local installers while also maximizing tax credits and other incentives, saving customers up to $10,000 in the process. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. A pair of firefighters helped deliver a baby on the side of a busy Ohio interstate. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Pepper Pike Firefighters rushed to the scene after a frantic father called Emergency services, saying his wife was in labor and he had to pull over on the side of I-271 near Chagrin, CBS affiliate WOIO-19 reported. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When fire responders arrived, they found a mom in the front seat of her car with the babys head showing. I went up to the car, and we could actually see the babys head. So she started crowning already, said Lieutenant David Tapp. Lieutenant Tapp was one of the first to arrive on the scene, WOIO-19 reported. Lieutenant Tapp said he helped induce labor and had the mom push. His partner successfully cut and clamped the cord. Together, they helped deliver a healthy baby boy. Even though it was a nervous scene for all of us, with the babys head already showing, we decided it was best to stay there and deliver the kid, said Lieutenant Tapp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lieutenant Tapp told WOIO-19 that in his 30-plus years as a firefighter, this was the first time he had ever delivered a baby in the field. It was exciting and nerve-racking at the same time, but it all worked out in the end, said Lieutenant Tapp. This was the moms second child, according to Lieutenant Tapp. Lieutenant Tapp told WOIO-19 he was happy to hear the mom and baby are doing well. My partner and I said we would never forget this call in our careers. So it is something that is definitely memorable for us, said Lieutenant Tapp. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Ayman Soliman, the former Muslim chaplain at Cincinnati Children's Hospital whom federal authorities are trying to deport on what his lawyers are saying is a trumped-up basis. (Photo courtesy of the Ohio Immigrant Alliance.) In the middle of a national firestorm, the top executive of a venerable Ohio hospital last Thursday told employees that misinformation and lack of context can spread quickly, making it easy to jump to conclusions without all the facts. However, Cincinnati Childrens Hospital President and CEO Steve Davis didnt provide any facts about the firings of two chaplains who spoke out in support of a former colleague whom the Trump administration is trying to deport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, he urged employees to trust that our leaders and your colleagues are making decisions with the best interests of our patients, families and each other in mind, according to a note to the staff obtained by the Capital Journal. Childrens Hospitals public affairs office was sent a copy of the note, which was posted late Thursday afternoon, but it didnt respond to questions about it. In addition to telling employees to trust him, Davis, the $2.5 million-a-year CEO, reminded his underlings of hospital policies regarding advocacy and media relations, according to the note. Davis was addressing the controversy around Ayman Soliman, a man who served as a Muslim chaplain at Childrens after fleeing his native Egypt in 2014 and receiving asylum in the United States in 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soliman was arrested, beaten, and tortured in Egypt because of his work as a journalist during the Arab Spring. Solimans asylum was revoked on June 3 and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested him on July 9. Hes been in the Butler County Jail ever since. A federal judge issued an order preventing ICE from removing Soliman from Ohio at least through July 30. Solimans lawyers say the administration has used a bogus, shifting set of claims to try to deport Soliman. Many have rallied to his support. On July 17, there was a vigil for Soliman in Cincinnati. About 100 protesters left it to march in the travel lanes across the John A. Roebling Bridge to Covington, Ky., impeding traffic. Covington police arrested 15 in some cases acting violently even though the protesters appeared to be peaceful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among those arrested were a reporter and photographer for CityBeat. Felony charges against them were later dropped, but misdemeanors remain pending. In the aftermath, Cincinnati Childrens fired Adam Allen, one of its chaplains, merely for attending the vigil, Allen told WCPO TV. He said he tried to comply with what he thought was hospital policy. There was an HR meeting with our department to discuss media policies, Allen told the station. I understood from that meeting that I shouldnt be a speaker. I could be misrepresented in the media as being a representative of the hospital. So I wore a shirt to the event that said, I do not represent Cincinnati Childrens Hospital.' The hospital also fired chaplain Lizzy Diop, who had given media interviews in support of Soliman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Children with serious medical conditions both chronic and acute have long been treated at Childrens. And chaplains have played an important role comforting traumatized kids and their parents, a story published Wednesday in Rolling Stone said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Soliman was valuable to the hospital because of his generous demeanor, his ability to speak Arabic, and his training in Muslim theology, the story said. Despite the seeming importance of chaplains to hospital care, Childrens is down three in a short span. The losses are all due to the same controversy which stems from the priority President Donald Trump has placed on mass deportations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his note to the staff, Davis, the Childrens CEO, didnt directly mention that controversy. As our country continues to experience changes and challenges, Cincinnati Childrens is not immune to the scrutiny that arises when polarizing topics and events occur, the note said. In fact, our reputation as a national leader in pediatric health brings a high level of attention and assumed expectations from our supporters, colleagues and the general public. Davis added, Please know the absence of a public response should not be mistaken for a lack of caring or action. Childrens didnt respond when asked whether the hospital feared retaliation from the Trump administration if employees speak out against Trumps actions. Trump has engaged in high-profile battles in which he tried to defund elite universities over issues relating to free speech. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the note to employees, Davis referenced rules from the hospital for employees about their own speech. While there may be divisiveness outside of our walls, we expect all employees to live our values and follow our policies, every day and in every interaction, he wrote. I encourage you to review our Code of Conduct, as well as policies related to Advocacy, Media Relations, Social Media and Solicitation. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX JDEIDET YABOUS, Syria (AP) The first group of Syrian refugees returned home from Lebanon on Tuesday under a new plan the United Nations developed with the Lebanese government following the downfall of Bashar Assad's rule in December. Syria's uprising-turned-conflict displaced half of the country's pre-war population of 23 million over the last 14 years. Lebanon hosted an estimated 1.5 million refugees, at one point making up roughly a quarter of its six million people, with many having been smuggled across the border and unregistered with the UN. The new plan has the UN refugee agency offering $100 in cash to each repatriated Syrian refugee and the Lebanese authorities waiving any fees or fines they owe. The UNHCR and the International Organization for Migration will provide them with buses for their return journey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UNHCR also says it will help returning Syrians with "cash grants, legal assistance for civil documents, psychosocial support, livelihood opportunities, and other protection services. The strain on Lebanon as poverty spreads Lebanese authorities have repeatedly requested the repatriation of Syrian refugees over the years, a call that grew louder with the widespread poverty in the Mediterranean country and shrinking funding for aid agencies. But Syria under Assad was not yet safe for their return, according to major rights organizations. Many Syrians had also previously said the war, forced conscription under Syrias former government, and unpaid residency fines in Lebanon have held them back from returning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Syria now has a new government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led the surprise offensive that ousted Assad, and the Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam's government hopes Syrians will sign up for the joint repatriation plan. The UNHCR estimates that over 205,000 Syrians have crossed back into the country from Lebanon since December, of which at least 126,000 were confirmed to be full returns, said Abou Khaled. Thousands of Syrian refugees are ready to return home UNHCR Lebanon spokesperson Lisa Abou Khaled says about 17,000 Syrian refugees in Lebanon have already signed up to go back to their home country, though the vast majority have opted not to take the buses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tuesday's repatriation was a test run, she said, with only 72 people, mostly going to Syrias third-largest city of Homs and rural Damascus. Syrian border authorities greeted the returning refugees with roses and water bottles, as they filled out forms after exiting the bus. Some took pictures in front of Syria's new green flag. Among them was Rasha, who told The Associated Press she was elated to return for the first time in 14 years. We're going home with nothing, but it's easier than having to keep paying rent, she said, using only her first name. She and her husband are heading to Homs. Before, she wouldn't leave because her sons were at the age of conscription, which she described as sending your son to his death." They also couldn't afford to pay all the fines for overstaying in Lebanon for 14 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Raghad fled to Lebanon when she was 10 years old after her father was killed in Homs, and is returning for the first time to her family home with her siblings and their children. Were hoping to fix it so we can live there for a bit," she said. I can't imagine myself living there without Dad." A humanitarian crisis still exists in Syria Despite Washington lifting decades-long sanctions, Syria is still reeling from an economic crisis that has pulled the vast majority of its population into poverty. Its still also trying to rebuild hundreds of billions of dollars in battered infrastructure after the conflict. Abou Khaled, the UNHCR Lebanon spokesperson, warns that this might hinder long-term returns if not resolved soon. We must acknowledge that there is a real humanitarian crisis in Syria that remains very significant, she explained. Millions of people will need urgent help to be able to return in a sustainable way. Chehayeb reported from Beirut. WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. (WTNH) First responders attending the Connecticut Fire Academy are reflecting on what it means to honor a fallen hero, as the state grieves the death of a Plainville firefighter. Raymond Ray Moreau died Sunday when he was struck by a piece of fire apparatus while on scene at a house fire. Wake, funeral services for fallen Plainville firefighter announced The loss lands on the same week as students are attending the National Honor Guard Academy at the CT Fire Academy; a coincidence that attendees said makes the training more invaluable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I realized theres a lot more to learn, Mansfield firefighter paramedic Lauren Mazzoni said. I wanted to make sure that I could get that education and learn how to do it properly so that I can respectfully honor our fallen when we do attend these funerals. Plainville firefighters family to receive benefits from Fallen Hero Fund The week-long class prepares first responders with best practices for interacting with family members, performing traditional ceremonies and planning funerals during an emotionally draining time. Executive Officer Hal Grout says having procedures in place, like the ones taught in the class, are important for keeping things smooth for both family members and fire crews close to the deceased. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When this happens, this is the most devastating thing that could happen to them, Grout said. Regardless of how much we want to honor these folks, if the family doesnt want that kind of honor then we have to step back. Students say the training means even more to them, knowing that they will soon be able to provide support for others to lean on, especially in the event of any line-of-duty tragedies in the future. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. A former deputy from the San Miguel County Sheriff's Office in southwest Colorado is on the run after allegedly being caught with 27 videos of child pornography, according to state investigators. Jesus Damian Nieblas, 28, resigned from the county's sheriff's office, located in Telluride, June 25 before the start of an investigation into his alleged crimes by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, according to a Tuesday news release from the agency. Investigators served a search warrant at his residence in Norwood weeks later, on July 10, but Nieblas wasn't there. There is no indication that any children in the county were victims of the alleged crimes, according to CBI. "It is believed that Nieblas is not currently in San Miguel County," officials said in the release. Nieblas is facing the following charges: Featured Local Savings 1 count of sexual exploitation of a child (class 3 felony) 11 counts of sexual exploitation of a child (class 4 felony) 16 counts of sexual exploitation of a child (class 5 felony) 27 counts of persons required to report child abuse or neglect When arrested, Nieblas' bond will be set for $100,000, cash only, according to CBI. "All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law," officials said in the release. Anyone with information about the deputy's whereabouts is encouraged to contact CBI Special Agent Caroline Keevey at 970-248-7500. Callers may choose to remain anonymous. Five medical employees at an Alabama jail have been indicted in connection with the death of a mentally ill man who died of hypothermia after being held for two weeks in a concrete cell. The indictment unsealed Tuesday brings the total number of people charged related to the 2023 death of Tony Mitchell after his incarceration at the Walker County Jail up to 25. A former jail medical supervisor, a jail health services administrator and three jail licensed practical nurses, are each charged with one count of conspiracy against rights and one count of deprivation of rights, according to the indictment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his incarceration, the jail's medical staff failed to provide Mitchell with constitutional conditions of confinement" despite the fact that some corrections officers approached the jail's medical supervisor with concerns about Mitchell's deteriorating health, the indictment read. Walker County outsourced the jail's medical care to QCHC Inc., a company which employed the indicted staff, according to a civil suit filed by Mitchell's mother. The claims against the Walker County Sheriff's department employees were settled in July, but the claims against Quality Correctional Health Care and it's staff remain still pending. Quality Correctional Health Care is contracted in 10 other jails across the state, according to the indictment from Tuesday. An attorney listed for the company in the civil case didn't respond to a phone call and an email sent on Tuesday. Only two people indicted on Tuesday had attorneys listed when the indictments were unsealed. Those two attorneys didnt respond to an email on Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An attorney for the Walker County Sheriff Nick Smith declined to comment on Tuesday. Mitchells death on Jan. 26, 2023, put a spotlight on conditions and allegations of abuse at the jail in Jasper, Alabama. Mitchell, 33, died after being brought from the jail to a hospital emergency room with a body temperature of 72 degrees (22 degrees Celsius). He had been taken into custody two weeks earlier on Jan. 12 after a relative asked authorities to do a welfare check on him because he appeared to be having a mental breakdown. The Walker County sheriffs office said Mitchell was arrested after firing a shot at deputies and running into the woods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors wrote in the indictment that for much of his two-week detention Mitchell was held in a concrete cell that serves as the jails drunk tank with no blanket, mattress, or clothing, and was routinely left naked on the bare concrete floor. He was routinely covered in feces and was not provided with regular opportunities to shower or use a toilet, prosecutors wrote. The indictment is part of a sweeping probe into Mitchells death that has ensnared jail leadership, sheriffs deputies and jail medical staff. The 25 indictments and plea deals depict a rampant culture of abuse and corruption that went beyond Mitchell's treatment. At least one other nurse pleaded guilty in October last year. The plea deal said the nurse had no interest in providing care to someone he thought was unworthy of it and because he feared job ramifications if he offered care against the perceived prevailing culture. Separate indictments unsealed on Monday charged six employees, including the jail captain and supervisor, with numerous federal deprivation of rights and conspiracy, alleging the officers unlawfully punish detainees in the jail for the detainees perceived misbehavior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least one plea states that, at the time of Mitchell's death, officers intentionally kept the conditions in the jail as filthy as possible to convince county commissioners to increase salaries and jail budget. ___ Riddle is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Five suspects have been charged over an attack on a white couple at a jazz festival in Cincinnati. Violent footage showing a man and woman being beaten by a group of people in the Ohio city on Saturday went viral on social media over the weekend, prompting condemnation from figures including Vice-President JD Vance. On Monday, police charged five suspects over the attack, but did not release their names. They said they expected to bring more charges and are in contact with the victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harmeet Dhillon, a senior figure in the US justice department, suggested the attack on the white couple may have been motivated by race, and that suspects could also be charged with federal hate crimes. Video shared on social media shows the fight apparently break out after a white man reaches out to slap a black man dressed in a red T-shirt while the pair argue surrounded by a group. The fight appeared to break out after the man reached out to slap someone before being quickly overwhelmed Several people are then seen kicking, punching and throwing themselves at the man while he attempts to protect himself. He falls to the floor and multiple people stamp on the mans head. He is later helped to his feet by bystanders in the crowd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another clip, apparently later in the altercation, shows a woman being punched in the face by a man and collapsing on the street. Teresa Theetge, the Cincinnati police chief, said five people were charged on Monday at the mass brawl of 100 or so people in the citys downtown around 3am on Saturday. Anyone who put their hands on another individual during this incident in an attempt to cause harm will face consequences... thats unacceptable, she said. I dont care which side of the incident or the fight they were on. The investigation remains open and police anticipate that more suspects will be charged, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our federal hate crimes laws apply to ALL Americans, Ms Dhillon, the US assistant attorney general for civil rights, said on Sunday. Nobody in our great nation should be the victim of such a crime, and where race is a motivation, federal law may apply. A woman was punched in the face and knocked to the ground during the incident. She was later helped up by bystanders Both victims appear to be white, according to footage of the attack. One witness told local media the incident had been sparked off by racial comments, but this has not been confirmed. Mr Vance, a former Ohio senator, accused authorities in big cities of allowing lawless thugs... to run wild in a visit to the state on Monday. We have got to make great American cities safe again for families and children, he said. Where I come from at least, when you have a grown man who sucker punches a middle-aged woman, that person ought to go to jail for a very long time. BREAKING: Vice President JD Vance just WENT OFF on the violent mob that attacked two men and a middle-aged woman at the Cincinnati Jazz Festival: "Take the thugs who engaged in that violence and throw their asses in prison." "You had a grown man who sucker punched a middle-aged pic.twitter.com/803KwikBjF Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) July 28, 2025 Corey Bowman, a Republican candidate for Cincinnati mayor and Mr Vances half-brother, said police were being hamstrung because soft-on-crime city prosecutors released criminals onto the streets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of these officers dont even book people because they know theyre just going to be back on the street next week... They have a heart for the city, but theyre being hindered by the policies that are in place, he told Fox News. The Cincinnati mayors office has been approached for comment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Russian forces struck the village of Novoplatonivka and the city of Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast on 29 July, killing five people and injuring five others. Source: Kharkiv Oblast Prosecutors Office Quote: "The investigation shows that at approximately 10:30 on 29 July, the armed forces of the Russian Federation struck the village of Novoplatonivka in the Borova hromada, Izium district. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town along with their adjacent territories ed.] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A hit was recorded near a shop where people were receiving humanitarian aid water. A fire broke out: the blaze engulfed the shop and a parked car. Two women and three men died. Four others were injured." Details: Early reports suggest that the Russian forces used multiple-launch rocket systems in the attack. In addition, at around 17:30, a 39-year-old man was injured when a Russian first-person view (FPV) drone hit the city of Kupiansk. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Florida Attorney General and Orange County Sheriff John Mina in Orlando on April 14, 2025. (Screenshot from video from James Uthmeier's X account) Like every other county in Florida, the Orange County government entered into an agreement with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) earlier this year, giving sheriffs deputies and corrections officers authority to serve warrants of arrest and removal for immigration violations. However, during a recent Board of County Commissioners meeting, the board and Mayor Jerry Demings declined a request by ICE and the Florida Sheriffs Association to amend their agreement to include having county corrections officers transport undocumented immigrants to ICE-approved facilities upon request by the federal agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont have the capacity to do that, Demings said, according to WESH-TV in Orlando. And if the sheriffs want to do that, thats up to the sheriffs. But in terms of our correctional staff, they are not law enforcement. They are there to take care of the care and custody of persons who are within our Orange County jail. That rejection of the ICE request means Orange County has adopted a sanctuary policy, according to Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier a violation of state law. Prohibiting your corrections officers from transporting arrested aliens to ICE-approved detention facilities squarely prevents your corrections officers from cooperating with ICE and participating in federal immigration operations, Uthmeier says in a letter sent on Tuesday to Mayor Demings and the six-member Orange County Commission. The AG is demanding that Mayor Demings and the County Commission must immediately adopt the addendum presented by ICE and the Florida Sheriffs Association. Failure to take corrective action, he says, will result in the enforcement of all applicable civil and criminal penalties, including removal from office by the Governor pursuant to section 908.107, Florida Statutes, and the Florida Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is not the first time that Uthmeier has threatened local government officials with the possibility of the governor removing them from office if they did not adhere to the states policies on immigration enforcement. After Key West city commissioners voided their police departments 287(g) cooperative agreement with ICE, Uthmeier threatened to seek removal of those local officials, prompting the commission to reverse its vote a week later. Uthmeier threatened members of the Fort Myers City Council with removal earlier this year after they opposed having their police department cooperate with ICE. Like Key West officials, they promptly turned around and voted to implement a 287(g) agreement. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier is threatening to have Orange County commissioners and Mayor Jerry Demings removed from office if they dont back down from their refusal to let corrections officers transport immigrants to federal detention facilities. In a letter, Uthmeier accused the Orange County leaders of enacting sanctuary policies by rejecting the transport proposal from ICE at their July 15 meeting, when they also sought to stop holding immigration detainees without criminal charges in the countys jail. By rejecting this addendum presented by ICE and Florida Sheriffs, you adopted a sanctuary policy and failed to exercise best efforts in support of the enforcement of federal immigration law, Uthmeier wrote, using a term for local policies that protect undocumented immigrants, which are prohibited by Florida law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson, who urged her colleagues to fight against efforts to force the county to work with ICE, said the county should push back despite the attorney generals threat. Uthmeiers announcement comes days after newly-appointed state Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia informed the county he was planning to audit the countys spending. The letter is the attorney generals latest attempt to rein in local governments that try to limit their participation in immigration enforcement. Specifically, he wrote in the letter dated Tuesday that the county must immediately adopt the June Addendum and allow Orange County Corrections Officers to transport illegal aliens to ICE-approved detention facilities. Failure to take corrective action will result in the enforcement of all applicable civil and criminal penalties, including removal from office by the Governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Demings spokesperson said the mayor and Board of County Commissioners will again discuss the addendum at their next meeting Aug. 5. Wilson said the jail is already facing steep shortages of corrections officers, with a report earlier this year finding the jail had about a 25% vacancy rate among employees. This is commandeering our local corrections officials to run state and federal errands, at the same time theyre scrutinizing our budget that we used to pay for those officers, she said. Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet, who had urged commissioners to reject the ICE transport proposal at the July 15 meeting alongside more than 30 speakers, said Tuesday that complying now would be falling into the governor and attorney generals bullying pulpit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By law, counties are required to have a 287(g) program, where local police and correctional staff can serve as ICE agents. Anything more isnt required, he said. Its a lie. The attorney general is lying, Sousa-Lazaballet said. Uthmeier cited Florida law that states counties must use their best efforts to assist ICE in any way possible. And by rejecting the transport proposal, he said Orange County is in clear violation. But the best effort section of the law is nothing more than a way for the state to dictate county actions relating to ICE, said Alana Greer, an attorney with the Community Justice Project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Its a) generalized thing that our state is trying to weaponize to encompass all sorts of actions that are not required by law, she said. ICE could turn around and say, Give me 50% of your officers Under this interpretation, there would be no discretion or no ability to say whats best for the community. The July 15 discussion came as commissioners and Mayor Jerry Demings faced immense pressure from advocates to reject the addendum and end its Intergovernmental Service Agreement, or IGSA, with the feds, which allows authorities to house federal inmates at the Orange County Jail. Its just one of a handful of facilities in the state with such an agreement, meaning detainees are housed there who may have been arrested hours away. At the meeting, Demings contended that having corrections officers who are county employees transport detainees to facilities like Alligator Alcatraz, about 240 miles south of the jail, is a bridge too far. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats not our responsibility. That is the federal governments responsibility, not ours, Demings said. I will not agree for our corrections staff to transport federal inmates to other facilities. Among the complaints of commissioners were that the addendum would require the county to pay for transportation, at a time when the county is already arguing ICE is shortchanging it for housing inmates. It costs roughly $145 per day to detain someone, and the county is reimbursed $88. Its now a question of the state wanting them to go further than what state law requires, Greer said. Are they going to do that at the expense of resources and costs of Orange County taxpayers and residents? The plan to use local officers to transport the detainees was originally hatched by the Florida Sheriffs Association, which was hosting a three-day meeting in ChampionsGate in Osceola County this week. Uthmeier was seen there on Tuesday, just hours before the letter was shared to his X account. _____ Florida AG threatens to remove Orange County mayor, commissioners over immigration enforcement Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier is insisting that Orange County leaders do more to assist federal immigration enforcement. In a letter to Mayor Jerry Demings and all six county commissioners, the attorney general said the county must allow corrections officers to transport undocumented immigrants who are in custody to detention centers. Uthmeier said the countys rejection of an amendment on this last month means Orange County has adopted a sanctuary policy and violates state law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Failure to take corrective action will result in the enforcement of all applicable civil and criminal penalties, including removal from office by the Governor pursuant to section 908.107, Florida Statutes, and the Florida Constitution. In a statement, the county said, Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings and the Board of County Commissioners will discuss the ICE addendum at their next meeting on August 5, 2025. WFTV has reached out to both Demings and Uthmeier for comment. Uthmeiers letter, posted on X, can be read in its entirety. Florida law forbids sanctuary policies and requires locals to use "best efforts" to assist with immigration enforcement. The Orange County Commission must adopt the ICE Addendum and allow Corrections Officers to transport illegal aliens to approved detention facilities. pic.twitter.com/EvYEp476xt Attorney General James Uthmeier (@AGJamesUthmeier) July 29, 2025 Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Florida had the second-highest population growth of any state in 2023, with 365,205 people moving to the Sunshine State that year, according to Consumer Reports. It added that a whopping 1,200 people moved to Florida every single day between July 2021 and July 2022. And really, its easy to see why the state is so attractive: its sunny, warm, and a state with no income tax. Although the entire state can make for a great new home, some places offer an easier way of life than others. And a new list from GOBankingRates is sharing exactly where those locations are. In late June, the website revealed its list of the 10 most livable destinations in Florida, describing them as places with low crime rates, easy access to health care, clean air, green spaces, good schools and other desirable traits. And it named Wilton Manors the No. 1 most livable destination in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the team, the annual cost of living in the community just north of Fort Lauderdale is just a touch over $76,000, with a monthly cost of living at $6,337. Here, the median value of a single-family home is $720,629, while the median household income is $79,390. But most importantly, it also has a livability score of 91. According to AreaVibes, the community scored an A+ almost across the board, including for its amenities, commute, crime, employment, housing, health and safety, and user ratings. Its only areas of improvement are schools, which still scored an impressive B+, and, surprisingly, a D- in the cost of living. Still, all this added up to a winning score for the community. Other top spots to make the list include Doctor Phillips, Florida, at the No. 2 spot, a city just outside of Orlando, which nabbed a livability score of 89, and Seminole, located outside of Tampa, which came in third place with its own score of 89 but had a slightly lower median household income. To find these places, GOBankingRates analyzed data via AreaVibes.com, creating a seed list of spots with a livability index of at least 80. Then, it factored in each locations total population, the population aged 65 and over, total number of households, and the household median income, sourced via the U.S. Census American Community Survey. It also factored in the cost of living via Sperlings BestPlaces, which included the grocery, health care, housing, utilities, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses, along with the average single-family home value. It sorted the cities to highlight the places with the highest livability paired with the most affordable cost of living. See the full list and what you can expect in each community at gobankingrates.com. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure Florida Democrats are mired in an astonishing slump: The last time they elected a governor, for example, "Friends" and "ER" had debuted on TV, Florida and Florida State played the infamous Choke at Doak, and perhaps ominously Republicans gained control of both houses of Congress in what was called the "Republican Revolution." Fast forward to today, and Democrats are plotting a comeback. Their century-long domination of Florida politics ended decades ago. And after forcing three statewide elections into recounts in 2018, they no longer hold any statewide offices and are in superminority status in the Legislature and Congressional delegation. But the road ahead won't be easy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two consultants and a local Democratic Party chair delivered insight into how Democrats can begin winning elections and regain some influence in Tallahassee during a Capital Tiger Bay luncheon July 28. Beth Matuga of Hard Ask Consulting and Ashley Walker, a partner with the Mercury Public Affairs firm, each have more than 25 years experience in high-stakes Florida electoral battles, including House, Senate and presidential races. They were joined by Ryan Ray, current chair of the Leon County Democratic Executive Committee. Their discussion laid out the political landscape for the 2026 election and how Democrats can provide Republicans some competition. The path to victory involves partisan voter registration, according to Walker, who worked on both of former President Barack Obamas Florida campaigns. Beth Matuga is with Hard Ask Consulting and has managed state House and Senate races That is, they need to register voters into the Democratic Party and then persuade those voters to support Democratic candidates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its really hard to get voters to register but this is not a hard concept. It takes political will and it takes grit, Walker said. The key when registering voters is to identify issues that affect their lives and propose solutions. Walker, Matuga and Ray agreed Democrats have a major rebuilding effort to regain voters trust in their proposals. Matuga: Democrats will need 25 years to rebuild in Florida Before the turn of the last century, Republicans, to their great credit, enacted a 25-year plan and it worked, Matuga said. So we should realistically be considering a 25-year plan to rebuild, not a 24-month plan. Ray said the messaging needs to be powerful enough to reactivate the Democratic Partys historic base that is, working people: Weve lost ground on cultural wedge issues. But I think talking and listening to the base is how were going to grow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 26 of Florida's 67 counties, or 38% of the state, Democrats have fewer voters than the GOP or the combined total of no-party-affiliated voters and those with minor parties. To be sure, Democrats still hold influence in pockets of the state. Cities like Tallahassee, Gainesville, Jacksonville, Tampa and Orlando show up as blue dots in a sea of Republican red. According to Walker, Democrats have been trying to find the perfect candidate the last few election cycles, one who is ideologically pure and has the money needed to run statewide. Ashley Walker, on the left, is a partner with the lobbying campaign firm Mercury. Ryan Ray, right, is the chair of the Leon County Democratic Executive Committee Even if that person could be found, they would still face a tough fight: There is no functioning Democratic Party in a third of the state, and Republicans have 1.3 million more registered voters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walker said the idea a perfect candidate making everything great for Democrats is just not realistic because the fundamentals (of support) just isnt there. Talk to party officials, elected officeholders, and grassroots activists and they mostly agree with what Matuga, Ray and Walker said. Nikki Fried, the state chair and last Democrat to win a statewide race in 2018 when elected Commissioner of Agriculture, said Democrats need to break out of their insular bubble and talk to people who are not Democrats. Fried launched a "Front Porch Swing" this summer, referring to low-key, no-publicity chats with voters. So far, she has made stops in rural areas of Clay, Lake, Hillsborough and Duval counties, asking people whats on their minds. Fried: To voters, 'everything is about economics' What she finds is "everything is about economics": Property insurance, auto insurance, everyday cost of living. These are policy issues that transcend partisan politics, Fried said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fried thinks Democrats should focus on economic issues in 2026. Jayden DOnofrio is a 20-year-old candidate in the Democratic primary for House District 102 in Broward County. Last year, DOnofrio raised $1.3 million for the Future Florida Leaders political action committee to register voters. Senate President Ben Albritton, left, talks with the Florida Democratic Party Chairwoman Nikki Fried before Gov. Ron DeSantis holds a press conference in Tallahassee, Florida on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. He faults the party for falling behind in voter registration, though he appreciates the grunt work Fried is doing to develop a winning message for 2026. Still, messaging will be worthless if Democrats dont do partisan voter registration, he added. You have to connect the policy to the party, DOnofrio said. The message is everything. I don't think that Democrats in Florida are talking nearly enough about affordability and cost of living in this state. At the Tiger Bay luncheon, two-term Leon County Commissioner Rick Minor mingled with voters after the panel discussion. Rick Minor Minor worked on public policy proposals for several Democratic gubernatorial campaigns. He said candidates win when they connect their message to voters real concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This election cycle, Minor thinks what Congress is doing is a real concern for Florida voters: The Big Beautiful Bill, the tariffs, the cuts to FEMA and the National Weather Service hit Floridians pocketbooks and create serious safety concerns for everyone, Republicans, NPAs, as well as Democrats, Minor said. He said Democrats can win in 2026 if they show that they are not just fighting for Democrats, but for everyone who feels that the nation and state are moving in the wrong direction. James Call is a member of the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jcall@tallahassee.com and is on X as @CallTallahassee. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: A Florida Democratic Party revival: Could it take 25 years? As Gov. Ron DeSantis threatens on-site audits of local governments finances to search for waste, Tampa Bay communities are quietly responding to questions from the state. The states Department of Governmental Efficiency task force sent letters in recent weeks to city and county governments including St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Tampa and Pinellas and Hillsborough counties requesting information about their revenues and expenditures from fiscal years 2021 through 2024. Most say they have responded with detailed lists chronicling their spending. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre looking for ways to be efficient we do that every single day," Pinellas County Administrator Barry Burton said of the DOGE team. Another set of eyes is not a bad thing. DeSantis created the state DOGE task force, which mimics the Elon Musk-affiliated federal program, in February to eliminate redundant boards and commissions, review state university and college operations and spending, utilize artificial intelligence to further examine state agencies to uncover hidden waste, and even audit the spending habits of local entities to shine the light on waste and bloat. This month, DeSantis announced that Gainesville, Broward County, Manatee County and Orange County would face audits, citing increased spending and property taxes. During a news conference last week, he said the task force has heard complaints about a handful of local governments, including Hillsborough. A July 11 request from the task force that St. Petersburg and Hillsborough received includes a spreadsheet with questions asking governments to provide details about their population size, revenue and how much money was spent on various city functions, including public safety, utilities, transportation, health, housing, culture and recreation. The deadline to respond was July 21. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some local governments say theyve also received other inquiries from the task force. In March, St. Petersburg said it responded to a general request from the governors DOGE team asking if municipalities have encountered any financial emergencies or distress. St. Petersburg Chief Financial Officer Erika Langhans responded that the city did not meet any of those specific circumstances. Hillsborough County received an April 11 letter from the state requesting the countys line-item budget for each department as well as things like spending reports, employee salaries and position descriptions, contracts, grant spending and the hours employees worked. Were embracing this DOGE mentality with the state, Hillsborough County Commissioner Chris Boles said at a budget workshop in May. I believe we can make these changes and improvements. Extra scrutiny At a news conference last week, DeSantis announced his administration would conduct on-site inspections of local governments that failed to comply with DOGE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Already, some have said there have been mistakes in the states calculations. Broward officials said county ad valorem taxes increased by $340 million per year between 2021 and 2024, while a DOGE letter stated a $450 million increase. And in Gainesville, while the city budget has grown by $92 million total over the last five years, DeSantis said it had expanded by nearly $90 million per year. Everything we have sent them has shown that we do things properly in Broward County, so I dont know what theyre really looking for, Broward County Commissioner Nan Rich told the Times/Herald last week. They keep asking for audits, were going to keep responding and giving them what they ask for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Karen Woodall, co-founder of the Florida Center for Fiscal and Economic Policy, said the audit requests seem to target governments that arent in lock sync with DeSantis policy priorities. Broward is South Floridas only blue county, and Gainesville is Democrat-led. Manatee, however, leans Republican. It is not the responsibility of the governor to be digging into local government budgets, Woodall said. Unless theres been an issue raised that there is some kind of illegal or criminal activity taking place. Hillsborough County commissioners in April established a review panel to examine government spending and sent a letter to the governor stating their intent to cooperate with DOGE. Pinellas followed suit, voting later that month to memorialize their compliance with the department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont have any problem with people looking over our shoulder on costs, Pinellas County Commissioner Dave Eggers said in April. I certainly welcome any additional scrutiny or constructive criticism, as long as theyre not home-ruling us. Times/Herald Tallahassee bureau reporter Lawrence Mower contributed to this report. Just over a week ago, personal finance company WalletHub ranked Florida among the top 15 most-expensive states when it comes to child care costs in 2025. Today, WalletHub released its list of the best and worst states for early childhood education, and Florida ranked among the 15 worst, scoring poorly in all of the categories associated with cost. Florida dropped in rankings from the 2024 version of this WalletHub list, dropping four ranking places. Heres where Florida ranked on WalletHubs list compared to the same list from 2024 and why. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How much does child care cost? This list ranks Florida among most expensive states Which U.S. state is best for children's education? To find the states with the best early childhood education systems, WalletHub compared each state across 12 metrics that fell into three categories: access, quality and resources, and economic support. Last years WalletHub list ranked Arkansas as the best U.S. state for early childhood education. This years list ranks Arkansas in third place, Washington D.C. in second and Maryland in first place. Maryland had the 15th-highest increase in enrollment between the 2001-2002 and 2023-2024 school years, at 5%. It also has the 14th-highest enrollment overall for three-year-olds, the study says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another area where Maryland stands out is safety. In addition to having a statewide school safety plan, it also requires regular audits to make sure everything is in line. Heres WalletHubs top 10 states for early education in 2025: Maryland District of Columbia Arkansas New Jersey New Mexico Oregon West Virginia South Carolina Vermont Michigan Heres WalletHubs top 10 states for early education in 2024: Arkansas District of Columbia Nebraska Maryland Oregon West Virginia South Carolina New Jersey Vermont Connecticut WalletHub's 2024 list: What U.S. state has the best early childhood education? Where Florida ranked Where does Florida rank in early education? Florida ranked 37th on WalletHubs list in 2024 and 40th on the same list in 2023, but this year, the Sunshine State ranked in 41st place, meaning it placed as the 11th-worst state for early education. Heres how Florida performed in some of the key categories WalletHub used to find its rankings: 21st Share of 3- and 4-year-olds enrolled in pre-K, pre-K special education and Head Start 29th Income requirement for state Pre-K eligibility 46th Total reported spending per child enrolled in preschool 15th Total state Head Start program spending per child enrolled in preschool 43rd Monthly child care co-payment fees as a percent of family income Heres how Florida ranked in some of the key categories from the 2024 study: 17th Share of 3- and 4-year-olds enrolled in pre-K, pre-K special education and Head Start 29th Income requirement for state pre-K eligibility 45th Total reported spending per child enrolled in preschool 14th Total state Head Start program spending per child enrolled in preschool 43rd Monthly child care co-payment fees as a percent of family income How much does child care cost in Florida? The cost of child care depends on the age of your children and whether you choose in-home or center-based care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Winnie, an online marketplace for child care, the average monthly cost of child care in Florida ranges from around $700 to $1,000 a month, depending on whether you choose in-home or center-based child care. The average cost of in-home childcare per month in Florida is $700. Parents of infants pay even more, with an average monthly cost of $740 per month (that's close to $9,000 a year) while parents of four-year-olds pay an average of $650 per month, Winnie says. The cost for center-based childcare increases to an average of $1,000 per month for infant care and close to $800 per month for preschoolers. Can you get free child care in Florida? Does Florida offer free daycare? Although the cost of high-quality early education is out of reach for many Florida families, there are some subsidized help options available for low-income households. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can get child care at a discount, depending on your needs, from a variety of options available to help qualifying families defer the cost of tuition, from county-issued subsidies to free pre-K programs. One of the options available for Florida families is the Florida Department of Education's School Readiness Program, which offers assistance to low-income families for child care. You can find eligibility requirements and apply for the program by visiting your countys early learning coalition website. Florida also has a free, voluntary pre-K program and was one of the first states to offer it. To qualify, children must be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1 of the upcoming school year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Applications to Floridas voluntary prekindergarten (VPK) Education Program are accessible on the states Division of Early Learning website. There are also federally-funded programs that qualifying low-income families can use to sign up for free child care: Head Start and Early Head Start. Depending on where you live and how many programs are available, there may be a waitlist. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Florida expensive for early child education; ranks with lowest Late on Saturday night, Fremont County law enforcement officials seized 98 fentanyl pills and more than 7 grams of methamphetamines from two Colorado Springs residents. The Fremont County Sheriff's Office, in news release on Monday, criticized Colorado judges and Personal Recognizance bonds for allowing the two to be released after fewer than 48 hours in custody. The release states that the Amy Michels, 49, and Jacob Heuvel, 41, were booked on numerous charges, including unlawful possession, unlawful possession with intent to distribute and second degree introduction of contraband, which is categorized by the intent to smuggle contraband into a correctional facility. The Sheriff's Office alleges that Magistrate Claire Lebeau released the two on a Personal Recognizance bond shortly after their arrest, a bond that essentially promises that someone will return for their next court hearing. "These arrests highlight the ongoing concern for community safety, as Colorado judges continue to release offenders back into our communities on personal recognizance bonds, time and time again," Fremont County Sheriff Allen Cooper stated in the release. Michels' next hearing is scheduled on Aug. 13, and Huevel's has not yet been posted on Colorado Docket Search. The Brief A Florida mother is accused of leaving two children in a hot car in Lehigh Acres. Deputies with the Lee County Sheriff's Office said Marianne Isnar left the children while she shopped inside a Dollar General. Isnar was charged with child neglect unattended child in a motor vehicle. LEHIGH ACRES, Fla. - A trip to Dollar General in Lehigh Acres landed a Florida woman behind bars after deputies said she left two children inside a hot car while she went shopping. The backstory On Sunday, deputies with the Lee County Sheriffs Office went to the parking lot of a Dollar General on Homestead Road after a witness reported seeing two kids alone in the backseat of a non-running vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When deputies arrived, they said they opened the vehicle doors and saw two kids strapped in with seatbelts. According to LCSO, the vehicle was off with every window rolled up, allowing no air flow in the car. READ:Tampa hits 100 degrees breaking all-time temperature record In bodycam video, a deputy can be heard asking the kids if theyre okay and telling them that it is hot. When the childrens mother, Marianne Isnar, returned to the car, the deputy asked her how long she was in the store, and she said five minutes. Courtesy: Lee County Sheriff's Office The deputy replied that he heard she was in the store for 25 minutes and the windows werent down and the car wasnt on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deputy asked her to move toward the hood of the car, so the kids can be removed from the vehicle. Dig deeper After 10 minutes of having the doors open, it was still 100 degrees in the car, according to LCSO. READ: Going outside in the heat? Here's what you need to know to stay safe The deputy is heard on bodycam video saying he thought there would be a little bit of remorse from Isner but stated there was zero remorse. Isnar was charged with child neglect unattended child in a motor vehicle. The children were medically cleared by EMS and later released to a family member. What they're saying "This woman chose to leave her children in a car during one of the hottest days we have had in Southwest Florida this year," said Sheriff Carmine Marceno. "Let this serve as a clear message, we will not hesitate to hold people accountable for putting a childs life at risk. We are grateful these children are okay." The Source This story was written with information posted by the Lee County Sheriff's Office. Photo taken from Florida Department of Corrections Website Dozens and perhaps hundreds of individuals who applied to visit inmates at Everglades Correctional Institution (ECI) in Miami-Dade County last weekend had their personal contact information shared with every inmate at that facility, according to five different individuals who have spoken to the Phoenix over the past four days. The Florida Department of Corrections has not commented publicly about the incident since it occurred last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That data breach has frightened and infuriated some of the women who had their names, email addresses, and telephone numbers released to those incarcerated at the prison located near the Florida Everglades. Inmates received that information via an email sent out by a staff member of the facility on Thursday. Florida inmates have access to emails through both interactive kiosks as well as secure tablets. Its kind of disturbing when you think about it, said Madeline Donate, who regularly visits her husband at the prison. The privacy aspect of this is concerning. This is how other inmates get information and can sometimes extort family members and things like that. Its concerning. Jan Thompson said she fears extortion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What if theres some inmate that doesnt like another inmate? she said. And he tells his family, Okay, heres his wifes phone number. Call her and tell her if she doesnt pay and put $500 on my book, Im going to have her husband stabbed and killed. Whats stopping them from doing that? (Inmates can receive funds for deposit into their inmate trust accounts from individuals already identified on the inmates automated visiting record). Im very worried. This is not okay, added a woman who wanted to be identified only as Dakota, her middle name. Someone needs to be held accountable for this. They need to take the necessary precautions to ensure that this does not happen. And what about this information thats out there? Theres what, 1,600 [inmates] there? They all have information. God knows what they could do with it. Visit protocol Individuals who intend to visit an inmate in one of Floridas prisons must fill out an application form every time they intend to make such a visit a policy introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Previously, once an individual was approved by the FDC, they could just show up during visitation hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Visitors who spoke to the Phoenix said that policy made sense during the pandemic, as the department needed to control the number of visitors consistent with social distancing protocols. However, those protocols have long since been discarded. Patrice Kelley was furious when her incarcerated husband informed her Friday that her personal contact information had been released to every other inmate at ECI. Kelley had removed most of her digital footprint from the internet after having a problem with a stalker in her immediate past. Unfortunately, people in Florida that are at that institution now have my information, she said. I dont live in Florida anymore, so thats a good thing, she said, adding that it only takes somebody saying, This is where this person lives.' Individuals who had their personal contact information exposed were unhappy that, as of Monday morning, no one from the Florida Department of Corrections had acknowledged the data breach to them personally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They have yet to notify me that my personal information has been exposed to 1,600 inmates. That is unbelievable, Thompson said, adding that she doubted that would be the situation had the contact information of staff members inadvertently been sent to prisoners. Denise Rock, executive director of the prisoner advocacy group Florida Cares, said her organizations main concern is not with the institution but the visitation process, which she said is duplicative and led to the data breach. We urge the department to discontinue requiring already-approved visitors to register and release their private information each time they do so, she said in a text message. When the Florida Department of Corrections put the sign-up process in place permanently, we had many concerns. The limitations and restrictions it placed on the families were burdensome, but this breach of privacy leads to safety concerns for the families further highlighting why this practice should be discontinued immediately. If it happened this time, which is one too many times, it can surely happen again. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE TAMPA In the weeks since President Donald Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law, the phones at Florida solar companies have been ringing off the hook. The law moved up the expiration date of the 30% tax credit for homeowners who install rooftop solar panels to Dec. 31. With the time it takes to get the required permitting and sign a contract with a solar company, that clock is ticking down quickly. When asked if business had spiked as a result of the law, Bill Johnson, who runs solar company Brilliant Harvest in Sarasota, replied: Oh my god. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Within 48 hours of the bill being signed, we had enough contracts to complete the year, said Johnson, whos also board president of Floridas solar industry lobbying group. Steve Rutherford, president of Tampa Bay Solar, said his company has seen a similar explosion of demand. Because of the training required for installers, though, Rutherford said he cant ramp up fast enough to fulfill all the requests by years end. The business leaders spoke at a news conference Tuesday morning alongside U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Tampa, urging residents who have been considering solar not to delay. Our message today is if you are interested in lower-cost solar for your home or for your business, for your church, synagogue or mosque you have to act now, Castor said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adding urgency to the groups message was the temperature outside, which had already surpassed 90 degrees Tuesday morning and had triggered a rare extreme heat warning for the Tampa Bay region. The air conditioner at the Loretta Ingraham Recreation Center, where the news conference was held, hummed in the background, working hard. Taking away the residential solar tax credit is removing a tool for Floridians to help bring down their electric bills, Castor said. Stripping support for clean energy more broadly by rolling back a suite of programs has also created uncertainty for utility companies, which have for years been incentivized to build more solar farms. Losing those programs could cause electric bills to go up across the board, she said. People dont deserve that, Castor said. As TECO, Duke and FP&L ask for higher rate increases and your electric bills go up, part of the reason is because of the big ugly bill, and taking away the tax credits you were enjoying for cleaner cheaper energy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, who has denied the science behind climate change, has said that clean energy should not need subsidies to succeed, instead opting to promote fossil fuels as president. The clean energy rollbacks in the law are also designed to offset tax cuts beneficial to wealthy Americans and corporations. As the solar rush fills Florida companies calendars for the year, the business leaders cautioned residents against picking lower-quality companies out of desperation. There are vendor-neutral resources available for homeowners who want to vet competing proposals from companies, such as through the nonprofit Solar United Neighbors. But this spike will end. And the future of the industry has been made much more uncertain by the new law, as Tampa Bay businesses brace for job losses. As he stepped up to the lectern Tuesday, Rutherford said the day felt like a bit of a funeral for the industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson remained slightly more optimistic, saying hes had some customers sign contracts for next year even though they wont get tax credits. Solar panels will still pay for themselves, though it will take years longer. And the demand for energy is only growing. Its not a fatal prognosis, Johnson said. This is a body blow. The Tampa Bay Times launched the Environment Hub in 2025 to focus on some of Floridas most urgent and enduring challenges. You can contribute through our journalism fund by clicking here. Dexter Barsigan has spent the past 13 years making a living with his bare hands and a pair of pliers, stripping scrapped laptops and air conditioners for metal he can sell to junk shops in the Philippines. But since his hands began aching and his vision started to blur three years ago, there have been days he can only watch his wife and nephew do the job for him. The 47-year-old father of three is a "mambabaklas", the Filipino word for informal dismantlers who scavenge electronic waste for the nickel, aluminum and copper inside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Dismantling helps us put food on the table. It provides the money to send my kids to school," Barsigan told AFP while sitting along a kilometre-long stretch of Onyx Street, home to hundreds of fellow "e-waste" dismantlers. Their work frequently involves burning away rubber wire casings, releasing a toxic brew of chemicals including lead, mercury and cadmium into the air. Both the Philippine government and the Basel Convention, a global waste management treaty signed by 191 countries, consider e-waste hazardous. "It poses serious threats to human health and the environment," said Irvin Cadavona, a hazardous waste management officer with the environment department, citing health risks ranging from cancer and neurological diseases to respiratory illnesses and birth defects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The World Health Organization said last year exposure to e-waste chemicals can lead to incidents of asthma and reduced lung function in children, while pregnant women are at higher risk for stillbirths and premature delivery. "It's very hard to recycle these (chemicals). When you dismantle (e-waste), you must intricately break it down. It can be very hazardous," Gelo Apostol, an environmental health specialist from Ateneo de Manila University, told AFP. Exposure to the substances can lead to anemia, kidney and thyroid diseases, and nerve damage, he said. The Philippines is among the top e-waste generators in Southeast Asia, according to the United Nations' Global E-waste Monitor, accounting for 540 million kilograms (about 600,000 tons) in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dismantlers who work at the country's accredited facilities are required to follow stringent guidelines. But their informal counterparts lack the training, regulations and protective equipment needed to properly protect themselves. "I strongly believe that some Filipinos are getting sick because of the exposure to e-waste," Cadavona said. - Burning rubber - Barsigan, who doesn't wear a mask while working, prefers dismantling computer circuit boards with aluminum and copper because they fetch as much as P470 ($8) per kilogram. But circuit boards have especially high concentrations of toxic metals that can cause nerve damage when breathed in, Apostol said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While illegal, Onyx Street's e-waste dismantlers also routinely burn wires to extract copper, which is faster than peeling them by hand. Rosana Milan, physician-in-charge at Manila's Pedro Gil Health Center, said her clinic has diagnosed half of the 12,000 people living along the street with respiratory issues, most of them children. "It's very risky for the babies, the toddlers and even the school children they're sitting beside their father while the father is... burning the rubber," Milan told AFP. "Mostly they have pneumonia, upper and lower respiratory illness, even if they have vaccines." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dismantler Sammy Oligar said his one-year-old grandchild had been diagnosed with pneumonia that a doctor attributed to pollution caused by the burning. "The smoke would enter from our window and the child would inhale it," Oligar told AFP, adding that many of his neighbors were dealing with lung illnesses. - 'What are we waiting for?' - Medecins du Monde (MdM), a French humanitarian organisation providing gloves, masks and safety orientations for the dismantlers of Onyx Street, is calling for the recognition of informal e-waste workers. "Health is clearly not their first priority. Their priority is to have food on the table," Eva Lecat, general coordinator of MdM, told AFP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If (their work) was legal and recognised and regulated, there would be ways to protect people and communities." Cadavona, the waste management officer, said the informal nature of the picker-junkshop relationship made it "very hard" to establish formal recognition for the community. Apostol, the faculty researcher, said an "evidence gap" created by the lack of studies specific to dismantlers might be contributing to a lack of urgency. "But remember, many of the chemicals found in e-waste already have extensive studies on their health effects," Apostol said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What are we waiting for? To have nationwide data of people who died from e-waste before we take action?" Worried he will be unable to afford treatment, Barsigan told AFP he has avoided doctors, instead putting ointment on his hands and taking a cheap, over-the-counter pain reliever. Once his hands feel a little better, he said, he will put them back to work. "If I stop dismantling, it's as if I have also given up the hope of a better life for my children." pam/cwl/dhw/fox Nevada Democratic Attorney General Aaron Ford formally announcing his candidacy for governor in Las Vegas Monday. (Photo: Dana Gentry/Nevada Current) Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford, a Democrat, positioned himself as the champion of the underdog Monday when he announced his candidacy for governor before a crowd of supporters in Las Vegas. I know what its like to feel like youre pushing a rock up a hill in the fight for a better life. And families all across Nevada are feeling it, too, he said. It feels like the deck is stacked against them. And you know what? It is. Im fighting for the kind of government that sees people like I was and says, you matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know what its like to struggle, Ford said, adding that as children, he and his brother ate stale candy bars, scavenged by his father, a grocery store employee, from the discarded food where he worked. We werent broken but we didnt have much. Ford, a one-time public school teacher, attorney, and former state lawmaker, is serving his second term as attorney general. He has one primary challenger thus far in the gubernatorial contest Washoe County Commission Chair Alexis Hill, who has yet to formally announce her candidacy. Hill, in a statement to the Current, congratulated Ford on being the Dem insiders choice. I look forward to engaging with Nevadans on concrete plans, real solutions and change when I formally announce for governor soon. Ford has been endorsed thus far by U.S. Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen, as well as U.S. Reps. Dina Titus and Steven Horsford, who both attended the announcement Monday, as well as fellow Democratic Rep. Susie Lee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state Democratic Party does not endorse candidates in a primary election. As the party chair, Im happy when anyone gets in the race, Assemblymember Daniele Monroe-Moreno, who attended the event, told the Current. If Alexis invites me, Ill be there. I know Alexis. I love Alexis family. The winner of the primary will likely face Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo, who is seeking a second term. Monroe-Moreno identified the harm that will come to Nevadans as a result of President Donald Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act as Lombardos greatest vulnerability. Ford never mentioned his primary opponent and took aim directly at Lombardo, who he said has been kowtowing to Trump while Ford has been taking the administration to court. I sued both Trump and the Biden administration. It doesnt matter what side of the aisle youre on. If someone hurts Nevada families, Im not backing down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ford noted that Lombardo, when asked by a reporter about the impact of Trumps tariffs, said Nevadans may have to feel a little pain. Can you believe that our governor wants families to feel pain while he caters to the powerful? Well, thanks to Joe Lombardo and Donald Trump, theres plenty of pain to go around. Ford criticized Lombardo for enlisting a Republican lawmaker to kill legislation that would have limited home buying by out-of-state corporations, whose purchases jack up the prices in Nevada neighborhoods. Under Lombardos watch, he added, Nevada has had the highest unemployment rate in the nation while job growth lags other states. The governor said that we should be excited about Trumps betrayal of a tax bill, excited that its going to blow a hole in our state budget; that its going to rip healthcare away from over 100,000 Nevadans; that two of our rural hospitals will have to close or to cut essential services, Ford said. Maybe we should be excited about slashing SNAP benefits for more than a half a million Nevadans to rely upon. As the single father of an infant while in college, Ford says food stamps kept him and his young son from going hungry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ford promised that if elected, hell bring prescription drug prices in line with Medicaids negotiated prices. He also vowed to hold corporations accountable for price fixing. Lombardo vetoed a bill this year championed by Ford that would have prohibited price-gouging for essential goods and services such as housing, pharmaceuticals, and energy. He also promised free school lunches for all Nevada students. Fords chances of defeating Lombardo could depend on whether Trump-weary voters galvanize during the midterm election next year to generate a blue wave in purple Nevada. According to his campaign, in 2022, Ford won more votes than any candidate in Nevada midterm history, easily winning re-election in a race against Republican firebrand Sigal Chattah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NBC News has labeled Lombardo as the most vulnerable Republican governor seeking reelection next year. The governors support for Trumps deportation policies could erode his support among Latino voters, an essential voting bloc in the state. Its breathtaking to see a candidate who speaks our language, state Sen. Fabian Donate said of Ford, who briefly addressed the crowd in Spanish. Donate, who has endorsed Ford, said he considered the wisdom of making a commitment at this early stage of the race, but says he likely would have heard from other interested candidates. Ford, he said, has always shown up for our community. Hes always had an open door for me. COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) Facing complex bureaucracy at home in Poland, Magdalena Kujawinska and her Colombian fiance Heinner Valenzuela traveled to Copenhagen to become husband and wife. We realized that its not that easy to get married in Poland, the 30-year-old Kujawinska said as the couple waited for their 10-minute ceremony at the Danish capital's 19th-century City Hall. You need a certificate that you are not married, she said. "We tried to get it from Colombia, but its only valid for three months, and it couldnt get to Poland from Colombia in three months. It was just impossible for us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The couple, who live in Krakow, had been engaged for more than three years when Kujawinska heard about Denmark's relatively relaxed marriage laws from a colleague. Working with an online wedding planner, the couple prepared the necessary documents. And in four days, we had the decision that the marriage could be done here, a smiling Kujawinska said. Copenhagen attracts couples from around the world Couples who don't live in Denmark, both mixed- and same-sex, are increasingly getting married in the Scandinavian country prompting some to dub Copenhagen the Las Vegas of Europe. The head of the marriage office at Copenhagen City Hall, Anita Okkels Birk Thomsen, said that about 8,000 wedding ceremonies were performed there last year. Of those, some 5,400 of them were for couples in which neither partner was a Danish resident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats almost double what we saw five years ago, she said. They come from all over the world. City wants to ensure room for locals But the city sees a downside to that: demand for ceremonies at City Hall now far exceeds the number of slots available. Mia Nyegaard, the Copenhagen official in charge of culture and leisure, said in a statement to The Associated Press that the significant rise in the number of foreign couples getting married in the capital poses challenges for Copenhagen-based couples wishing to get married. Local authorities plan to take action. Nyegaard said about 40% of wedding slots available at City Hall will be reserved for Copenhagen residents starting from the end of October. While booking a slot there is the most obvious way to get married in the city, arranging a ceremony with a private registrar is also an option, and that won't be affected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copenhagen lawmakers will look after the summer break at what else they can do to relieve overall pressure on wedding capacity in the city. Liberal laws Denmark's marriage laws are liberal in several ways. In 1989, the country became the world's first to allow the registration of same-sex civil unions. The legalization of same-sex marriage followed in 2012. For unions of all kinds, Denmark unlike many other European countries doesn't require a birth certificate or proof of single status to obtain a certificate that grants the right to get married in Denmark within four months. Officials might, in cases where divorce papers don't show clearly that a divorce has been finalized, ask for a civil status certificate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Applications to Denmark's agency of family law cost 2,100 kroner ($326), and couples are issued with a certificate within five working days if they satisfy the requirements. Non-resident couples can travel to Denmark and get married with just a valid passport and, if required, a tourist visa. We get that thing like, Are you sure we do not need a birth certificate? And we go, Yes, said Rasmus Clarck Srensen, director of Getting Married in Denmark. Clarck Srensen, a Dane, began the wedding planning business with his British wife back in 2014. In the last 20, 30 years, people just meet more across borders," he said. Marriage rules are often made for two people of the same country getting married. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They kind of piled on patches onto marriage law, and a lot of people get trapped in those patches, he added. His online companys Complete Service package, priced at 875 euros ($1,014), includes help gathering all the necessary documents, processing the certificate application and organizing the date of the ceremony. The business says it helped over 2,600 couples last year. Copenhagen, easily Denmark's biggest city with the country's best transport links, is the most popular location and so far appears to be the only one struggling with demand. Any changes to the city's rules will come too late to bother newlyweds Kujawinska and Valenzuela, who are now busy planning a celebration in Poland with family and friends. It means a lot for us because weve been waiting a lot for this, Kujawinska said. Were really happy. Mike Sfraga, then-chair of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission, speaks on April 10, 2024, at the Arctic Encounter Symposium in Anchorage. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) The former U.S. ambassador to the Arctic, Mike Sfraga, began a new job as interim chancellor of the University of Alaska Fairbanks on Monday. He replaced the outgoing chancellor of eight years, Dan White, who announced his retirement in May. University President Pat Pitney named Sfraga as interim chancellor on July 18, as a search for a permanent chancellor continues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sfraga has had a long career focused on the Arctic international diplomacy, political relations, climate policy, science and research. He served briefly as the first U.S. ambassador-at-large to the Arctic, appointed by former President Joe Biden. Prior to that, he chaired the U.S. Arctic Research Commission, and founded the Polar Institute at the Wilson Center in Washington, D.C. He has worked in various faculty and administrative roles in the University of Alaska system, from professor to vice chancellor. He also graduated with UAFs first doctorate in Northern studies and geography in 1997. Ambassador Sfraga is a fitting choice to lead Americas Arctic University, Pitney said in a statement released with the announcement. Mike brings a strong record of accomplishment, international networks, and over 31 years of experience at UA to the role, and he will be an excellent leader and steady hand at the wheel as we commence a search for a permanent chancellor. Sfragas appointment comes after the retirement of White, who served as UAF chancellor since 2017 and in several faculty and administrative roles since 1995. Sraga will lead UAF on an interim basis, while the university conducts a search for a permanent chancellor. He will not be a candidate for the permanent position, according to a university announcement. Returning to UAF is both a homecoming and recommitment, and Im grateful to President Pitney for the opportunity to serve my alma mater and its mission once more, Sfraga said in a statement with the announcement. UAF has long stood at the nexus of Arctic research, innovation, and leadership; a place where policy and science converge, and local knowledge informs global decisions. From its inception over a century ago, members of the Fairbanks community and communities throughout the state worked tirelessly to build a unique institution committed to serving Alaskans and the Circumpolar North. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UAF is well-positioned to address the many opportunities and challenges evident in the age of a more connected and globalized Arctic. Im honored and humbled to rejoin Americas Arctic University and contribute to its mission at a time when the Arctic matters more than ever, not just to Alaska, but to the world, he said. The university is expected to announce further details on the chancellor search process, the hiring committee, and timeline by mid-August. The University of Alaska is also in the process of hiring a new chancellor for the University of Alaska Anchorage, after the retirement of former Gov. Sean Parnell in May. Cheryl Siemers, former director of UAAs Kenai Peninsula College, is currently serving as interim chancellor. Correction: Pitneys title has been corrected. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX MONTPELIER, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44) After four years on the job, Nick Deml is stepping down as commissioner of the Department of Corrections and former Burlington police chief Jon Murad is stepping up. Murad, who will be interim commissioner, served in many different law enforcement roles in his past including with the New York City Police Department and, more locally, as the previous chief of police in Burlington. After more than two decades in municipal public service, Im excited to move to the larger stage of serving the great state of Vermont, he said. Governor Phil Scott said in appointing Murad, Jon is a proven leader with a strong background in both managing and improving organizations. As interim commissioner, I believe he will bring a valuable perspective to identify areas of improvement and continue to build on the foundation provided by commissioner Deml. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jon Murad says he will step down as Burlingtons Chief of Police next year Murad said last year that he had aimed to focus on preservation and stability of the Burlington Police Department as its chief. While Deml is leaving his position, the governor praised his efforts to improve the safety and efficiency of the prison system, as well as the morale of corrections employees. Department of Corrections looks to build new womens facility in Essex Deml has overseen the six correctional facilities in the state since 2021, but he will now be leaving his role to Murad on August 15. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. Former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe was found guilty of corruption in a trial that could worsen already fraying ties between Bogota and Washington. Uribe who remains a towering figure in Latin America was convicted of bribing a witness who alleged the former president masterminded a paramilitary group three decades ago, and faces up to 12 years in prison. He said he would appeal. The case has implications for Colombias relations with the US: The weaponization of Colombias judicial branch by radical judges has now set a worrisome precedent, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said. Rubios statement echoes Washingtons attacks against Brazils judiciary for its prosecution of a former leader the White House also sees as an ideological ally. BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) Former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe was convicted of witness tampering and bribery Monday in a historic trial that gripped the South American nation and threatened to tarnish the conservative strongmans legacy. The ruling followed a nearly six-month trial in which prosecutors presented evidence that Uribe attempted to influence witnesses who accused the law-and-order leader of having links to a paramilitary group founded by ranchers in the 1990s. Uribe, 73, was not in court in the capital, Bogota, for the verdict as the judge has so far not ordered his arrest. He followed the ruling from his home outside Medellin but did not immediately speak about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uribe faces up to 12 years in prison but a sentencing will be delivered in a separate hearing. He is expected to appeal the ruling. The former president, who governed from 2002 to 2010 with strong support from the United States, is a polarizing figure in Colombia, where many credit him for saving the country from becoming a failed state, while others associate him with human rights violations and the rise of paramilitary groups in the 1990s. While the ruling was read, Uribe's opponents clashed briefly with his supporters outside the courthouse. In a ruling that lasted more than 10 hours, Judge Sandra Heredia said there was enough evidence to determine that Uribe conspired with a lawyer to coax three former members of paramilitary groups who were in prison into changing testimony they had provided to Ivan Cepeda, a left-wing senator who had launched an investigation into Uribes alleged ties to a paramilitary group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case dates to 2012, when Uribe filed a libel suit against Cepeda with the Supreme Court. But in a twist, the high court dismissed the charges against Cepeda and began investigating Uribe in 2018. During Uribe's presidency, Colombias military attained some of its biggest battlefield victories against Latin Americas oldest leftist insurgency, pushing the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia into remote pockets and forcing the groups leadership into peace talks that led to the disarmament of more than 13,000 fighters in 2016. Known for his tireless work ethic and short temper, Uribe still has legions of followers in Colombia and is one of the fiercest opponents of the current president, former leftist guerrilla Gustavo Petro. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reacted to the ruling, as it became evident that Judge Heredia was going to find the former president guilty of bribery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uribes only crime has been to tirelessly fight and defend his homeland Rubio wrote on Monday on X. The weaponization of Colombias judicial branch by radical judges has now set a worrisome precedent. Colombian President Gustavo Petro defended the ruling, writing on X that a strong justice system will enable Colombia to emerge from violence. He added in another message that Rubio was interfering with Colombia's sovereignty. The world must respect the judges of Colombia" Petro wrote. Heredia said that her ruling should not be interpreted as a victory for anyone but as an act of justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics also blame Uribe for state crimes. According to a truth commission created in 2017, more than 6,400 civilians were executed by the Colombian military and identified as members of rebel groups by soldiers seeking promotions during the conflict, in a phenomenon that peaked during the Uribe administration. Prosecutors accused Uribe of sending lawyers to meet with imprisoned former paramilitary henchmen and pressure them to drop testimony that they had provided to Senator Cepeda. During the trial, Uribe denied trying to flip witnesses but acknowledged seeking interviews with the men as part of his preparation for trial and to verify testimonies that were also being used in a murder trial against his brother, Santiago Uribe, who was also accused of ties to the armed paramilitaries. Cepeda spoke to journalists after the ruling, and said that he would continue to fight for truth and justice" for victims of Colombia's conflict. No one can defy and taint the rule of law, he said. ___ Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america On Monday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Denver announced that two individuals have been arrested in connection with the death of a 15-year-old Colorado Springs girl who was sold fentanyl. Eugene Edwards, 57, and Destiny Benjamin, 30, of Colorado Springs, were arrested on June 13 on charges of a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, resulting in death. The charge carries a penalty of "no less" than 20 years, and up to life in prison, according to the FBI. A news release from the bureau states that the Colorado Springs Police Department arrived at the scene of a 15-year-old girl who had overdosed and died on June 7. Upon initial investigation, police found nine blue pills, marked with "M 30," wrapped in a receipt that was later linked to Edwards through his Bath and Body Works account. Police searched the victim's phone and discovered she had plans to meet Edwards at an elementary school in Colorado Springs to buy pills the night before her death. Phone records indicate that Edwards messaged the 15-year-old girl, "I'm your friend," when trying to persuade her to buy pills on May 28, according to an arrest affidavit. On June 6, after allegedly selling her the pills that would kill her, Edwards texted, "Delete all texts and calls," according to the affidavit. The news release states that surveillance cameras near the school caught Edwards' work truck with his phone number listed on the side that night. The release also states that one hour later, video captured the victim outside her home smoking a substance believed to be fentanyl. She died shortly after. Featured Local Savings Phone records between Edwards and Benjamin indicate they had a unique relationship: prostitution, pet names and narcotics. Edwards' arrest affidavit details messages he sent to Benjamin, most of which were inquiring about purchasing large amounts of methamphetamines and fentanyl, but were usually preceded by a, "honey," or "baby." At one instance, Edwards asked Benjamin to perform a sexual act on him for money. She replied, "Not tonight, I'm with my kids." Edwards was arrested on June 13, and police say they found fentanyl pills wrapped in another Bath and Body Works receipt in his vehicle, among other substances. When asked where he got the fentanyl from, Edwards told investigators that his only source of fentanyl was from Benjamin, according to the news release. Benjamin was also arrested on June 13, and police say she had fentanyl, methamphetamines and a loaded handgun in her possession. When questioned, police say she told investigators that she sold illegal narcotics to Edwards. Edwards and Benjamin made their first appearance in Federal Court in Denver on Monday. Conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, resulting in death, carries a potential penalty of up to life in prison and no more than a $1 million fine. CORYELL COUNTY, Texas (FOX 44) The Coryell County Sheriffs Office is mourning the loss of a former employee. The Sheriffs Office said Tuesday that its extending its deepest condolences to the family of Rob Atkins. Rob honorably retired from as the Offices Chief Deputy in November 2021. They say Rob was an amazing leader and a mentor to the Coryell County family. According to the Sheriffs Office, Rob was a devoted Christian and was loved and respected by all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robs funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, at the United Methodist Church in Livingston, Texas, located at 2801 U.S. Highway 190 West. (Courtesy: Coryell County Sheriffs Office) Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. Former dean of a Jacksonville charter school arrested for child sexual battery A former Dean at IDEA River Bluff school is facing multiple charges for sex crimes against a child, including sexual battery. 27-year-old James L. Tellis of Orange Park was arrested on Friday, July 25. The arrest report says the alleged offenses were against a student around 11 years old. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] After news of his arrest, the IDEA River Bluff school told Action News Jax that Tellis was immediately terminated and sent us this statement: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the morning of July 26, IDEA Jacksonville was made aware of the off-campus arrest of an employee in connection with an alleged incident involving a minor. There is no indication that the incident involved an IDEA scholar. The employee was immediately terminated, and we are fully cooperating with law enforcement. The safety of our students is our highest priority. Any conduct that compromises safety is unacceptable and will be met with swift action. While we cannot share further details due to the ongoing investigation, we have taken all appropriate legal steps. All IDEA employees undergo thorough state and federal criminal background checks and must pass to gain employment. Even so, ongoing vigilance, accountability, and a culture of safety remain essential. We remain committed to maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment. The arrest report obtained by Action News Jax details that Tellis touched the victims private parts, used his Instagram account to send messages in vanish mode to the victim, and offered the victim oral sex. More details in the arrest report show Instagram data retrieved from Telliss cell phone. The data revealed five more possible victims, both boys and girls, ranging in age from 10 to 17. According to detectives, the alleged crimes occurred between August 2022 and November 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Work history listed on Telliss LinkedIn account shows that he was employed as an English teacher at Charter Schools USA and KIPP Jacksonville Public Schools during that time. Action News Jax reached out to both schools after the arrest. A spokesperson with Charter Schools USA sent us a message, saying in part, We were advised that the issues surrounding this individual have nothing to do with our school or any of our students. KIPP schools spokesman, Zac West, sent us this statement: Mr. Tellis was employed by KIPP Jacksonville Public Schools from October 20, 2022 until he resigned on February 24, 2024. Mr. Tellis underwent all the required state and federal criminal background screenings prior to his employment at KIPP Jacksonville. This is an ongoing law enforcement investigation, and we intend to cooperate fully with the authorities if called upon. At this time, we do not have any indication if the incident involved a student at KIPP Jacksonville Public Schools. Our priority remains providing a safe and supportive learning environment for every student at KIPP Jacksonville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of publishing this article, Tellis remains in the Duval County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court on August 18. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Ukraine's government has appointed former Deputy Economy Minister Tetiana Berezhna as the interim culture minister, Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko announced on July 28. The move comes as part of Ukraine's first full wartime government reshuffle. Berezhna's appointment is expected to ensure stable leadership at the ministry amid ongoing reforms. "This decision guarantees manageability, financial capacity, and effective dialogue with the cultural community," Svyrydenko said on Telegram, adding that Berezhna brings "a strong background in public policy, international projects, and working with partners." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Berezhna will be tasked with auditing the sector's needs, attracting additional resources, and boosting cooperation with international donors and partners. The post of a culture minister was previously held by diplomat Mykola Tochytskyi, who assumed the position in September 2024 and was dismissed alongside much of the cabinet during the reshuffle. Tochytskyi's tenure has sparked criticism among cultural activists over his appointments and policies regarding cultural heritage, even leading to calls for his dismissal. The name of his successor was not initially disclosed during the cabinet reshuffle on July 17. Born in 1989 in Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast, Berezhna practiced law for more than a decade before entering public service. For her expertise in tax law, she earned recognition from international legal rankings such as Chambers Europe, Legal 500, and Best Lawyers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a deputy economy minister, she oversaw labor and employment reforms, including veteran reintegration, refugee return programs, and narrowing the gender pay gap. In 2025, Berezhna served as Ukraine's Commissioner General at EXPO-2025 in Japan, where she led the country's representation and oversaw preparations for the national pavilion. Ukraine's new government is led by Svyrydenko, confirmed by parliament on July 17 following the departure of Denys Shmyhal, who became defense minister. The reshuffle reflects a broader effort by President Volodymyr Zelensky to recalibrate the country's leadership amid evolving wartime priorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Whos who in Ukraines government after its first full wartime reshuffle Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. DURANGO, Colo. (KRQE) A commander at La Plata County Jail in Durango is facing more than 100 voyeurism charges after investigators said he watched videos of female inmates getting strip-searched. The Colorado Bureau of Investigations said 62-year-old Edward Aber accessed 117 different videos over a five-year span, watching them multiple times for his own sexual gratification. Video: Man charged with murder for driving car involved in deadly Taos city bus shooting Aber was promoted to jail commander in 2019, gaining administrative access to the videos through the website evidence.com. He resigned last summer amid allegations he harassed and made sexual contact with female inmates. He was never charged for sexual contact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. WARREN, Ohio (WKBN) A little more than a month after taking responsibility for stealing from Vienna, the townships former fiscal officer was back in court to learn her punishment. Linda McCullough appeared before Judge Cynthia Westcott Rice on Tuesday with her attorney, Jerry Ingram, by her side. We are rebuilding now. The community has come together in certain areas, but were a long way from getting back to where we were, Vienna Township Trustee Phil Pegg told the court during his victim impact statement. We are asking you impose the maximum sentence allowed by law. Judge Rice sentenced McCullough to eight years in prison and ordered her to pay restitution to both Vienna Township and to pay for the cost of a forensic audit conducted by the state auditors office. Back in June, McCullough pleaded guilty to all 10 charges, including theft in office, ultimately taking responsibility for stealing a little more than $116,000 from the township. She didnt do her job. She did not communicate the funds that we had. How were we to know? She did not work with the board at all. At the same time she was stealing from us, Pegg said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors have said McCullough made 127 electronic transfers from the townships bank account to pay for five personal credit cards over a three-year period while she served as the townships fiscal officer. She resigned from her position during an investigation and audit into the townships $1.3 million budget shortfall. Not only did she take this money, she then undertook efforts to cover it up, said Assistant Prosecutor Chuck Morrow. These offenses were not motivated by anything other than Ms. McCulloughs greed, Judge Rice said. Prior to learning her sentence, McCullough told the court she knows what she did was wrong. She also asked for mercy, saying shes the primary caregiver for her parents. I am truly sorry for what I have done, McCullough said. My actions betrayed my community. I am humiliated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also pointed the blame for Viennas fiscal problems elsewhere. I hope that individuals responsible for scheduling and approving excessive overtime and expensive equipment purchases will step forward and take some responsibility for their part in the townships financial problems, McCullough said. The prosecution was pleased with the sentencing. Our office has always been in a position that there needs to be more penalty than just agreement to pay back, Morrow said. Thats one of the things thats important, is to let people know that if they are elected and they are responsible for managing or controlling or have access to public funds, that they cant steal from it because the message is, if you get caught, youre going to prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I believe its the minimum of what she deserves, Pegg said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. RALEIGH, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Democrat Roy Cooper made it official Monday morning: The former governor will run for Senate in North Carolina. His announcement comes weeks after Republican Sen. Thom Tillis announced he would not seek re-election. Ive thought on it and prayed about it, and Ive decided I want to serve as your next United States senator, Cooper said in the two-minute video posted to X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roy Cooper entrance gives Democrats hope more Senate recruiting wins are on the way Cooper said he is entering the race with a goal of fixing a growing wealth disparity and protecting access to Medicare and Medicaid. He added that he had no prior plans to go to Washington, but that his plans changed after he said those problems came to the forefront. With Cooper in and Trump-backed RNC Chair Michael Whatley expected to run, experts are predicting more than $100 million to be spent on messaging over the course of the campaign. RELATED: RNC Chair Michael Whatley to run for Senate seat Its going to be massive, massive, massive sums of money. And I think that was going to be true no matter who the candidates were. You put a name like Roy Cooper in there, and it is just going to expand that, and somebody with the connections of Michael Whatley, same thing, said Chris Cooper with Western Carolina University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Whatley does have President Trumps endorsement, it is still unknown when Michael Whatley will officially announce his candidacy. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (WTAJ) A former lawyer from Hollidaysburg pleaded guilty in federal court to forging signatures on a civil lawsuit. Michael Brandon Cohen, 41, pleaded guilty Friday, July 25, to violating federal forgery laws two counts of forging the signature of a United States District Judge Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced Tuesday. In connection with the plea, the court was advised that Cohen, who was licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth, was retained to represent a victim in a lawsuit against a healthcare company in 2022. He alleged he filed the lawsuit on the victims behalf, but never did, according to Rivetti. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attempted homicide charges filed after Altoona man stabbed in the chest On May 18 and Oct. 13 of 2022, Cohen sent the victim fake court orders purportedly issued by Chief United States District Judge for the Middle District of Pennsylvania Matthew W. Brann in the victims favor against the healthcare company. The order, which bore Branns electronic signature, awarded monetary sanctions and fees to the victim. Brann, however, never issued the orders; therefore, he never authorized his electronic signature on the paperwork. Stay up to date with the latest news in the palm of your hand. Click here to download the WTAJ app for Apple and Android devices. Sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 18, where Cohen faces a maximum total sentence of 10 years, a fine of up to $500,000, or both. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) President Bonnie D. Parkin, former Relief Society General President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away Monday at the age of 84. The church confirmed President Parkins passing to ABC4.com Tuesday morning. Parkin served as General Relief Society President for the church from 2002 to 2007. If I could have one thing happen for parents and leaders of this church, it would be that they feel the love of the Lord in their lives each day as they care for Heavenly Fathers children, President Parkin said following her call to serve. Early life Parkin was born Aug. 4, 1940, in Murray, Utah, but was raised in Herriman to a family of rich pioneer heritage. Portrait of Bonnie D. Parkin. The 14th President of the Relief Society. (Courtesy//The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) Parkin graduated in 1962 from Utah State University in elementary education and early childhood development, leading her to a career as a teacher. She taught third grade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1963, just one year later, she met James L. Parkin and married him in the Salt Lake Temple later that year. The two would have four boys. A life of service In 1997, Parkin moved to England with James to serve in the London South Mission for the church. The two would preside over the mission. Before becoming president of the Relief Society, President Parkin served as second counselor to Janette C. Hales in the Young Women General Presidency. Bonnie D. Parkin served as General Relief Society President for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 2002 to 2007. (Courtesy//The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) As members of the Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it is our blessing and our responsibility to nurture and sustain the family unit, President Parkin said during her ministry. Everyone belongs to a family, and every family needs to be strengthened and protected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When called, she emphasized the importance of pressing forward amid challenges. [God] cherishes us even when we stumble and experience temporary setbacks. Parkins viewing will be held Friday, Aug. 8, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The funeral will take place the following day on Aug. 9, at 11 a.m. at the Parleys Stake Center (1870 Parleys Canyon Blvd, Salt Lake City, Utah 84106). Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. A former co-owner of a mixed martial arts studio in Frederick has been indicted on charges of embezzlement, theft, identity fraud and other crimes. Michael William Perry, 46, of Frederick, previously co-owned the studio, Groundswell MMA in Frederick, according to a press release by the Office of the State Prosecutor. The indictment alleges that Perry embezzled nearly $67,000 in company funds for his own benefit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was indicted on one count of embezzlement, two counts of theft, four counts of identity fraud and one count of failure to file a tax return for 2022. Multiple attempts to reach Perry at phone numbers in an online directory and through social media on Monday were unsuccessful. No attorneys were listed as representing Perry in online court records as of Monday afternoon. According to court documents, Perry was a fiduciary of the studio and fraudulently took money from the business from December 2021 to March 2023. The indictment alleges that Perry committed identity fraud by using his former business partner's identifying information and Social Security number without consent to obtain financing of $39,000 from Fundbox Inc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When reached by phone on Monday, the co-owner declined to comment. One of the counts in the indictment accuses Perry of stealing company funds to pay for a BMW down payment in July 2022 between $1,500 and $25,000. Another identity fraud count alleges that within that same month, Perry used his former business partner's Social Security number and other personal identifying information to obtain credit of between $1,500 and $25,000 from American Express under the business partner's name. A month later, in August, the indictment alleges, that Perry used his business partner's personal identifying information and Social Security number to obtain financing of $12,000 from CFG Merchant Solutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two months later, in October 2022, the indictment alleges, Perry signed on behalf of his former business partner and pretended to be the business partner in phone calls to obtain financing of around $21,000 from Fundamental Capital. The indictment alleges that Perry failed to file a Maryland income tax return for 2022. One of the driving personalities behind the Hubble Space Telescope is sounding the alarm on president Donald Trump's disastrous space policy. That former NASA associate administrator for spaceflight is Joe Rothenberg, who warns that the agency's current predicament mass layoffs and deferred resignations resulting in a loss of 20 percent of its workforce and a complete overhaul of agency culture may already be too bad to fix. "What is happening at NASA has long term and potentially unrecoverable consequences to US scientific and technology leadership in not only space but in technology that impacts our quality of life on Earth," Rothenberg said on a LinkedIn post from former NASA astrobiologist and current policy watcher Keith Cowing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This second Trump Administration and the brass it's put in charge of NASA have, as the former Hubble operations manager put it, "mortgaged Americas space and scientific research capabilities." According to Rothenberg, NASA may now be "well beyond the point of being able to be recovered by any potential restoration of funding by Congress." A longtime veteran of both the private and public spaceflight worlds, Rothenberg, who began his career at Grumman Aerospace six decades ago and who now sits on the boards of multiple private aerospace companies, recalled that NASA "in its early days inspired career pursuits in science and engineering." As a result, the United States became a leader not only in space exploration, but in "developing technology that has significantly improved medical, communications, and numerous quality of life applications." With Trump's increasingly successful gutting of the agency and "indiscriminate cuts in our nations scientific research program budgets," Rothenberg warns that the United States "now faces the strong possibility of the reverse happening," with would-be engineers and scientists being discouraged from entering the industry in the first place, creating cascading decades of lost opportunity for America's space efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, we've already seen a trend of both fledgling and established scientists considering fleeing the US over Trump's disastrous policies and to Rothenberg's mind, that ripple effect may continue well into the future. In his "America First" quest, Rothenberg argues, Trump has weakened "our economic and military leadership" and hurt the country's status in the global space race, too. More on Trump's space policy: NASA Employees Submit "Formal Dissent" Saying Trump's Cuts Are So Brutal That Astronauts Could Die A Frontier Airlines flight stayed on the taxiway at the Denver International Airport for nearly 50 minutes due to threatening notes that were found on board the plane. Frontier Flight 3406 was on its way from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to DIA when crew members discovered two threatening notes on the aircraft, according to a statement from Frontier. Law enforcement was immediately alerted and the flight landed safely at DIA. A security sweep of the plane resulted in no findings of concern and the aircraft has been released back into service, Frontier said. Passengers were transported to the terminal by a bus to be reunited with their belongings or to continue with their travels, the airline said. Denver Police Department officers assisted with deplaning passengers upon the aircraft's arrival. The threat appears to be "unfounded at this time," the police said in a statement. The FBI is leading the investigation. Denver Gazette news partner, 9NEWS, published this report. A former labor relations employee at Netflix is suing the company, claiming she was wrongfully terminated after raising concerns over her superiors' discrimination against women of color and allegations of sexual harassment. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, alleges that the employee's managers broke laws and policies that protect employees from race- and gender-based discrimination, and from retaliation for reporting alleged discrimination or harassment. Nhu-Y Phan was hired at Netflix as legal counsel in labor relations in May 2021. She was fired due to "unspecified performance issues" in September 2024, her lawsuit said. According to the complaint, Phan had never been subject to any discipline and had received overwhelmingly positive performance reviews and feedback throughout her time at the company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: How Netflix survived the streaming wars to stay the subscription video king She is seeking punitive damages, emotional distress damages, past and future lost income and other forms of relief, as well as a jury trial. A Netflix spokesperson said in a brief statement the claims outlined in the suit "lack merit and we intend to defend this matter vigorously. For the first year of her Netflix career, Phan was supervised by Ted Sinclair, who is named as a defendant in the suit. Phan alleges that Sinclair repeatedly excluded her and other women of color on her team from professional opportunities that he offered to white colleagues, and that he "encouraged a white employee" to take credit for her work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: After layoffs at Netflix, questions mount over diversity efforts Phan made multiple verbal and written complaints about this unequal treatment, including through meetings with both the human resources department and with Sinclair directly, but was still denied opportunities, the lawsuit said. She asked to be removed from Sinclair's direct supervision in the summer of 2022. Later, a female colleague confided in Phan, alleging that her new supervior, Jonah Cozien, was sexually harassing her, the complaint said. Cozien is also named as a defendant in the lawsuit. Phan reported the behavior to human resources, and after doing so, Cozien became "frequently hostile" toward her, limiting her professional opportunities and giving her critical feedback despite never having provided feedback before she made the report, according to the suit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: From 'Squid Game' to 'Frankenstein,' Netflix takes brand promotion to a new level at Tudum Sinclair and Cozien did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and their lawyers could not be identified. After Phan was fired, her lawyers say Netflix filed a lawsuit against her to compel arbitration. Brian Olney, one of the attorneys from Pasadena-based Hadsell Stormer Renick & Dai who is representing Phan, said forcing her into arbitration proceedings is a violation of the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act, which became law in 2022. Because records in arbitration are protected, employers that have arbitration clauses in their employment contracts can avoid public attention on cases involving sexual harassment and assault. The House Judiciary Committee said passing the law would bring justice to victims who were "locked out of the court system and are forced to settle their disputes against companies in a private system of arbitration that often favors the company over the individual." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Netflix fired Nhu Phan and tried to force her into secretive arbitration proceedings to silence her voice," Olney said in a statement. "With her lawsuit, she is standing up to this corporate bully and their outrageous and despicable conduct. Sign up for our Wide Shot newsletter to get the latest entertainment business news, analysis and insights. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A former deputy with the Mahoning County Sheriffs Office entered a guilty plea on Tuesday in his case on charges that he interfered with an investigation of a man suspected of selling drugs. Kip Danks entered into a plea agreement, pleading guilty to misprision of a felony in federal court on Tuesday. Misprision is a legal term describing the act of knowingly concealing a felony and also failing to report it to authorities. Details of the plea agreement were not available on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charge against Danks was filed Jan. 10, but the criminal complaint was kept under seal until July 18. An affidavit accompanying the bill of information said that investigators with the FBI and Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force were serving a search warrant on Jan. 9, 2023, at a 2615 Glenwood Ave. home as part of a drug investigation into Hure Orr, 60. The affidavit did not say if Danks was there. As law enforcement searched the home, they found a loaded .38-caliber handgun in a car, the affidavit said, and a bag that had methamphetamine and fentanyl inside. The affidavit said a wiretap picked up a phone call from Orr to Danks, where Orr asked Danks about parts of the warrant, then told Danks about the gun that was found. The affidavit said Orr asked Danks if he could be charged for having the gun because he has previous criminal convictions that bar him from owning a firearm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Danks told Orr, They got to prove its yours. I mean, how are they going to know its yours? the affidavit said. Danks also told Orr not to talk on the phone, the affidavit said. The affidavit alleged that Danks was trying to help Orr and prevent law enforcement from gathering evidence against him. The affidavit said Danks later called a task force member and tried to get information on the investigation and whether they linked the gun to Orr while also trying to divert attention away from Orr. Danks took a call from Orr the next day and shared information with Orr that he had learned when he called the task force member, the affidavit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators interviewed Orr and got him to agree to make a recorded call with Danks, the affidavit said, but Orr called Danks and warned him of the scheme. Danks was interviewed Aug. 10, 2023, and denied telling Orr to stay off the phone and that he was also resigned to investigators not believing him, the affidavit said. Orr also admitted to investigators in February 2024 that Danks had warned him to stay off the phone and that he took that to mean that the phone was tapped and that he should get a new phone. Orr had been the subject of an investigation into drug dealing by the Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force beginning in July 2021. Orr was identified as a drug distributor between July 2022 and February 2023, and he was known to carry a gun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A federal criminal complaint was filed Feb. 12, 2024, charging Orr with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. He was sentenced Jan. 17 to 54 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to the charge. Danks will be sentenced Nov. 19. He was released on $20,000 bond, according to court records. Joe Gorman contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Fort Cavazos, Texas, has been renamed Fort Hood, this time honoring a World War I soldier, Col. Robert Benjamin Hood. The ceremony took place Monday at the III Armored Corps Headquarters. Col. Mark McClellan, garrison Fort Hood commander along with installation Sgt. Maj. Loyd Rhoades cased the Fort Cavazos colors and unfurled the Fort Hood colors. Hood was a Distinguished Service Cross recipient who was dedicated to his soldiers and deeply respected by his peers and subordinates, said III Armored Corps and Fort Hood Commanding General Lt. Gen. Kevin Admiral. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Col. Hood represents the ideal citizen-soldier, a man who rose to the occasion when his nation needed him most and continued to give back long after the fighting had ceased, Admiral said. In recognition of his service, Col. Hoods name will live on as generations of soldiers who served and will serve here learn about his career and the impact he had on our Army. Hoods daughter, Mitzi Huffman, called the redesignation in her fathers name humbling and overwhelming. Ive been very humbled, she said. He never talked about his military experience. I did not know that he had a Distinguished Service Cross until we were preparing him for burial in Arlington. Hood was born April 8, 1891, in Wellington, Kansas, according to an Army release. He graduated from Kansas State Agricultural College now Kansas State University located in Manhattan, Kansas, in 1914. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army on Aug. 8, 1917, and served with Echo Battery, 12th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division. During a firefight near Thiaucourt, France, then-Capt. Hood displayed extraordinary courage and tactical brilliance as he expertly maneuvered his artillery battery under a barrage of heavy and persistent enemy fire, according to the award narrative. After his initial gun crews were lost to German artillery and machine gun fire, he rapidly reorganized his unit, restoring its combat capability in short order, Admiral said. His actions earned him the nations second-highest military honors. Hood received the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions under fire on Sept. 12, 1918. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hood continued his Army service, surviving the Pearl Harbor attack while stationed at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. He later commanded an artillery training unit at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, during World War II. He retired in 1961 as a colonel after 44 years of service. Hood died on Oct. 12, 1964, and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. During the [interwar period], these [years] were marked by reflection and innovation within our Army, and officers like Col. Hood played essential roles in training, doctrine, development and mentorship of younger Soldiers, Admiral said. His dedication to these efforts ensures that the U.S. military was ready for action for World War II and beyond. Fort Hood was originally redesignated Fort Cavazos on May 9, 2023, in honor of the late retired Gen. Richard E. Cavazos, who served as III Corps commanding general between 1980 and 1982, as part of a congressionally mandated effort to rename nine Army installations named for Confederate soldiers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cavazos was a Silver Star and two-time Distinguished Service Cross recipient for valorous actions during combat in both the Korean War and Vietnam War. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 2025 for his actions in the Korean War. Fort Hoods original namesake was Confederate Gen. John Bell Hood. The Naming Commission, established by Congress in the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, was tasked with assigning, modifying or removing of names, symbols, displays, monuments and paraphernalia to assets of the Department of Defense that commemorate the Confederate States of America (CSA) or any person who served voluntarily with the CSA, according to the release. Fort was renamed for Col. Hood on June 11, 2025, following an announcement by President Donald Trump that all nine installations would revert to their original names, in honor of recognized military heroes. The EU is promising colossal new US fossil fuel purchases under its trade deal with President Donald Trump, raising concerns for the bloc's climate fight -- should the mammoth pledges come true. As part of the framework agreed Sunday, the EU said its companies would buy $750 billion of liquefied natural gas, oil and nuclear fuels from the United States -- split equally over three years -- to replace Russian energy sources. Many experts believe the eye-watering figure to be unrealistic -- and point out that market dynamics rather than EU policymakers dictate companies' energy choices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even on the supply side, Simone Tagliapietra of the Bruegel think-tank noted that the United States might not be able to build the additional export capacity within such a short time frame. Brussels insists the number was not plucked out of thin air to keep Trump happy, but was based on an analysis of energy needs as it phases out Russian imports because of the Ukraine war between now and 2027. The proposed increase would mean more than tripling annual energy imports from the United States -- about $70 billion last year -- and equate to well over half the 378 billion euros' worth of overall EU energy imports last year. - 'Submission' - Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A large part of the EU's additional billions would go to imports of LNG, which is transported in liquid state to European ports before being converted back to gaseous form and injected into the bloc's power network. The United States currently account for about half of the EU's LNG imports, ahead of Russia on 20 percent -- a figure Brussels wants to cut to zero to choke off income that helps fund the war in Ukraine. But environmental groups warn against a massive switch to American LNG extracted in part though hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, which uses explosives to create cracks in rock formations to release oil and gas deposits. The highly polluting process comes with steep costs to both the climate and local environment, and is banned in a number of European countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Commission risks replacing one disastrous dependency with another -- unplugging Putin's gas and plugging in Trump's," Greenpeace warned when the EU's phase-out plans were presented. Francois Gemenne, a policy expert who co-authored the UN's most recent IPCC report on climate change, in 2023, accused the EU of "submission" to Trump's pro-fossil fuel agenda. Elected on a promise to "drill, baby drill," the US leader is openly hostile to renewable energy efforts and lashed out again at windmills "ruining" the landscape before meeting with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen in Scotland last weekend. For Aymeric Kouam of the Strategic Perspectives think-tank, the energy deal with Trump is both "dangerous and counterproductive" and imperils its goal to become carbon neutral by 2050. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Tying Europe's energy future to the US as a main supplier undermines the bloc's energy security strategy, anchored in supply diversification, renewable energy development, and energy efficiency increase," he said. The EU pushed back at the charge on Tuesday. "This agreement does not contradict our medium- to long-term decarbonisation objectives or targets at all," a commission spokesperson told reporters of the three-year energy pledge. The Trump trade deal comes as the EU debates its 2040 emissions-reduction target, a key step towards its net zero goal. The commission has proposed a target of cutting emissions by 90 percent compared to 1990 levels, but with new flexibilities to win over reluctant member states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EU says it has already cut climate-warming emissions by 37 percent relative to 1990, but its green agenda faces pushback with a rightward shift and rising climate scepticism in many European countries. nal-adc/ec/del/js PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Gov. Dan McKee is at a growing financial disadvantage against his all-but-declared Democratic primary rival for next year, former CVS executive Helena Foulkes, according to numbers released by their campaigns. McKees campaign manager, Rob Silverstein, said the governor raised $205,000 during the three months that ended June 30 and closed the quarter with $879,000 in his campaign account. Foulkes campaign advisor, Jon Romano, said she raised more than three times as much $636,000 during the same period. She has now amassed $2.1 million for the campaign, more than double the amount McKee has stockpiled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McKee narrowly defeated Foulkes, a first-time candidate, in the 2022 gubernatorial primary, and she has been preparing for a rematch for much of the time since then. No public polling has been conducted to test Democratic voters preference for next Septembers primary election, but three out of four recent surveys showed McKee with a statewide job approval rating at or below 25%. The fourth survey put him much higher, however, at 45%. Governor McKee will be re-elected because he has a strong record of fighting for Rhode Islanders and delivering on the issues that matter most, Silverstein said in a statement. He added, Governor McKee is running for a second full term to build on these successes through his RI 2030 plan and stand up for Rhode Island values against Washingtons radical agenda. Silverstein also pointed out that the bulk of McKees contributions came in after he hired a full-time finance director toward the end of the quarter, a possible indication his fundraising pace is picking up. And he noted McKee had less cash on hand at the same point in the 2022 election cycle, when he had only been in office a short time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 12 News political analyst Joe Fleming said McKees poll numbers suggest he needs to seriously step up his fundraising if he wants to counter what voters will be hearing from Foulkes. He needs to get a very strong positive message out, and that takes a great deal of money, Fleming said, though he also pointed out that the smaller turnout in a Democratic primary means the campaigns need to persuade a limited pool of voters. But still, he said, I think this Democratic primary will be very expensive. Foulkes campaign declined to comment beyond the numbers. She has not indicated when she plans to formally kick off her bid for governor, though she already has been regularly holding fundraisers and attending community events around the state. She was also slated to speak at a rally Tuesday evening to save the birthing center at Newport Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It remains unclear whether other Democrats will jump into the primary, as well. Attorney General Peter Neronha has been weighing his options and indicated he expects to make a decision by the end of the summer. House Speaker Joe Shekarchi has also been frequently touted as a potential candidate. Ted Nesi (tnesi@wpri.com) is a Target 12 investigative reporter and 12 News politics/business editor. He co-hosts Newsmakers and writes Nesis Notes on Saturdays. Connect with him on Twitter, Bluesky and Facebook. Ray Baccari contributed to this report. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Three men and a woman have been charged following a house fire in Rhondda Cynon Taf. No-one was seriously injured in the fire on Protheroe Street, Ferndale, during the early hours of Monday morning, but some residents were evacuated and treated for smoke inhalation, South Wales Police said. Auryn Gustar, 19, Connor Pitt, 23, and Storm Truman, 19, have all been charged with intent to endanger life, while Alfie Wheeler, 18, has been charged with arson with intent to endanger life and possession of a sharp pointed article in a public place. The police said all four, from the Weston-Super-Mare area, remain in police custody. At least four people were killed and hundreds were arrested during a protest against a fuel price hike in Angolas capital, police said. The protests erupted on Monday in response to the governments decision earlier this month to raise the price of diesel by 30 percent, which led to large hikes in fares by minibus taxis, an important method of transport for many Angolans. Gunfire could be heard in central Luandas Cazenga area, where people were seen taking food and other items from shops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Social media images showed clashes in the Rocha Pinto suburb near the airport, as well as in the Prenda area. Police said in a statement on Tuesday that hundreds of arrests were made in connection with rioting, vandalism and looting of shops. Cars and buses were damaged and roads were blocked. Transport in Luanda remained suspended and shops closed on Tuesday. The governments decision to raise heavily subsidised fuel prices from 300 to 400 kwanzas ($0.33 to $0.44) per litre has caused anger in Angola, one of Africas top oil producers, where many people live in poverty. Minibus taxi associations, which in turn hiked their fares by up to 50 percent, launched a three-day strike to protest the move beginning on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are tired they must announce something for things to change for us to live in better conditions, a protester told Angolas TV Nzinga. Why do you make us suffer like this? How will we feed our children? The prices have to go down, a woman said, addressing President Joao Lourenco. Angola National Police patrol the Kalema 2 district of Luana as looting breaks out on July 28, 2025 [File: AFP] Deputy Commissioner Mateus Rodrigues told reporters in a briefing about Mondays violence that the police currently report four deaths. He did not specify how they occurred. Police arrested 400 people overnight for suspected involvement in the unrest after arresting 100 on Monday, Rodrigues said. About 45 shops were vandalised, while 25 private vehicles and 20 public buses were damaged, he added. Banks were also targeted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protests have been taking place since the announcement of the diesel price hike on July 1. Human Rights Watch said police had used excessive force in a July 12 protest, including firing tear gas and rubber bullets. Angola has been gradually cutting fuel subsidies since 2023, when protests over a petrol price hike also turned deadly. A finance controller embezzled 150,000 from two companies to fund a lavish lifestyle including flights, holidays and shoes. Vicki Fortune, 45, was sentenced to a 12-month community order for her second fraud conviction in four years after a judge heard that she has terminal breast cancer. Fortune was first convicted in 2021 of defrauding a family-run architecture products firm for which she worked, leaving its finances in such a bad state that it had to lay off staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her second offence only came to light when her first conviction was publicised. Fortune, from Waterlooville, Hampshire, pleaded guilty to one count of fraud by false representation at Portsmouth Crown Court. Four years ago, at the same court, Fortune had been jailed for embezzling 65,000 from Architectural Louvre Products & Services. Paul Dunn, the chairman of Architectural Louvre Products & Services, arriving at court - Solent News & Photo Agency At her latest hearing, Edward Fenner, prosecuting, said that as a result of the publicity around that case, her former employer, Netsearch, had contacted police after discovering fraud. Mr Fenner said she worked as a financial controller for the company between April 2015 and June 2018, in a position of some trust with regard to its finances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She began defrauding the company in 2016, and embezzled 85,389 over a year and a half by transferring money from the company to her account under erroneous references. The money transferred varied between just under 1,000 and over 2,000 at a time every month. Holidays and expensive purchases She then joined Architectural Louvre Products & Services as financial controller in 2018 and embezzled 64,553, with over 4,500 going on flights, shoes, and presents. The managing director of the firm told the court that her fraud, carried out between 2018 and 2019, caused the business serious cash flow problems. It left the company so short of cash that it could not pay staff or provide bonuses, and its finances going into the Covid pandemic were so badly affected by her offending that it had to lay off four people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At her sentencing in 2021, Judge Timothy Mousley QC had said some of the money had been spent on holidays and expensive purchases, and she was sentenced to 16 months in prison. She paid back just 1 in 2022 because a judge found she had no assets. Fraud and abuse of trust Fortune was arrested again in May 2023 for the fraud she committed at the first company, at which point she claimed she could not remember what she had spent the money on. The prosecutor said upon her sentencing for the second fraud that there was evidence of a lavish lifestyle in her previous convictions. Jason Halsey, defending, told the court Fortune was treated for breast cancer in November 2023, but it came back and is terminal, and she has a life expectancy of three to five years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge William Ashworth said when sentencing that while the starting point for the fraud and abuse of trust of 85,000 should be three years in custody, she would not receive a custodial sentence. Fortunes terminal diagnosis, coupled with the fact that she had already served a custodial sentence and is caring for a severely autistic son, led the judge to sentence her to a community order of 12 months and 20 rehabilitation requirement days. Judge Ashworth continued: Im not in any way minimising the impact suffered by the business, but it is part of this courts abilities to look mercifully on people who have suffered significantly, who have made full admission to their wrongdoing. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. As Palm Beach County schools and families prepare for the 2025- 2026 school year, obtaining essential school supplies is a top priority. In Florida, select supplies will be tax-free from Aug. 1 through Aug. 31. However, back-to-school shopping can still be expensive and difficult for some families. In response, several communities across Palm Beach County have organized supply drives to connect free school supplies to those who need them. Free Back to School events, resources in Palm Beach County Back to Cool (School) Bash at Tanger Outlets Palm Beach The Tanger Outlets Palm Beach is hosting a school supply drive and a back-to-school bash in support of and benefit of the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County. For more information, visit tanger.com/palmbeach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Date: Aug. 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Location: Tanger Palm Beach, 1751 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd., West Palm Beach Details: The school supply drive will be located in the Green Space next to Columbia. Only certain supplies will be accepted. Those include backpacks, colored pencils, markers, construction paper, dry-erase markers, erasers, highlighters, folders, scotch tape, pencils and crayons. Back to School Bash in Lake Worth Beach Lake Worth Beach is hosting a back-to-school bash for residents only. Residents can receive a free backpack full of school supplies while they last. For more information, visit lakeworthbeachfl.gov Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Date: Aug. 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Norman J. Wimbley Gymnasium, 1515 Winfield St., Lake Worth Beach Details: Only Lake Worth Beach residents will be eligible, and must live within zip codes in 33460 or 33461. Kids must be present to receive school supplies and they need to show proof of residency. Town of Palm Beach United Way The Town of Palm Beach United Way's 13th annual school supply drive collects materials and donations to benefit low-income families in the community. All donations are given to nonprofit agencies and Title I schools for distribution. A list of suggested supplies and more information can be found here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Date: From now until Aug. 4 Location: Drop off locations include: the United Way Office, 44 Cocoanut Row, Suite M201 - inside the Palm Beach Towers; the Town of Palm Beach Fire Rescue Stations 1 and 3, 355 South County Road and 2185 South Ocean Boulevard; Field of Greens in Palm Beach, 253A Royal Poinciana Way and Field of Greens Dixie Highway, 4802 South Dixie Highway. Florida Blue's Back to School: Fuel the Future Florida Blue is hosting an event to ensure a healthy, strong start to the school year. The Florida Blue Centers connect neighbors to services, support and advice that help you achieve better health. They want to ensure that students are healthy and ready to start the school year off strong. They are hosting a free school supply drive. Date: Aug. 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Location: Florida Blue Palm Beach Center, 1501 N. Congress Ave., Boynton Beach Details: Parents must be present for students to receive a free backpack with free school supplies and get resources to help students start the year off strong. Please register online here for the event! Back 2 School Bash Delray Back 2 school bash is giving away more than 1000 backpacks filled with school supplies and offering free haircuts and braids to all students. They will also be giving away scholarships. Date: Aug. 2 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Location: Boys & Girls Clubs, 1451 SW 7th St., Delray Beach. Details: Parents must be present for students to receive free backpack of free school supplies and get resources. Please register online here for the event! Back 2 School Extravaganza in Lake Park Hundreds of backpacks filled with school supplies will be handed out Saturday during Lake Parks fifth annual Back 2 School Extravaganza at Town Hall. Free school supplies and resources including backpacks will be available for students grades K-12. The student must be present with a parent or guardian. For more information, visit lakeparkfl.gov. Pre-registration can be done by phone by calling 561-840-0160. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Date: Aug. 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Location: Town Hall, 535 Park Ave., Lake Park Details: Parents must be present for students to receive free backpack of free school supplies and get resources to help students start the year off strong. Please register online here for the event! Gardens Mall The Gardens mall is giving away $40 vouchers to college students, with a valid student ID. Certain stores at the mall including Abercrombie & Fitch and Vineyard Vines are offering additional discounts on clothing with a valid student id. Click here to register! Date: Aug. 9 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Location: The Gardens Mall, 3101 PGA Boulevard, Palm Beach Gardens Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Students must register online in advance. After registering, bring the confirmation ticket and a college ID or an acceptance letter to The Gardens Mall. Students will pick up their vouchers at the Information Desk between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Francesca Abarca is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at fabarca@gannett.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Free back to school supplies, events in Palm Beach County The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), a landmark law to increase government accountability, is falling short in its aim to improve transparency with American citizens, according to a recent report from Open the Books. FOIA gives the public the freedom to request government records from federal agencies, with the exception of certain information involving the White House, congressional records, confidential financial information, national security matters, and law enforcement records. In recent years, government-caused inefficiency has increased wait times for FOIA requests, which "have become so long they undercut the accountability FOIA is meant to provide," per Open the Books. The report finds that across federal agencies last year, FOIA requests labeled as "complex" took an average of 267 days to generate a response, and "simple" requests an average of 39 days for the agency to initially respond, "but 31 agencies still took in excess of 100 days on average." While agencies are required by law to respond to FOIA requests within 20 days, "in practice many require extensions for months or even years, citing big backlogs of records requests." Two agencies were especially slow. The Commerce Department had an average wait time of 836 days, and the Department of Veterans Affairs had an average wait time of 811 daysor over two years.* And the amount of backlogged FOIA requests is rapidly increasing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) reports that "in FY 2022, the government-wide request backlog surpassed 200,000 requests for the first time." These numbers have more than doubled since FY 2013, when the number of backlogs was a modest 95,564 in comparison. While understaffing at federal agencies may be partially to blame, Open the Books found cases of government officials deliberately delaying FOIA requests. The group mentions the case of David Morens, an adviser to former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Anthony Fauci, whose emails showed that "he had been evading FOIA requests as a matter of institutional practice." In one email, Morens says he learned "from our FOIA lady here how to make emails disappear after I am FOIA'd but before the search startsPlus I deleted most of those earlier emails after sending them to gmail." Open the Books offers potential fixes to FOIA's problems, including updating FOIA's outdated legacy software, removing bureaucrats who slow-walk requests, and instituting staffing quotas. However, these solutions won't fully fix the problems that are inherent with a large and overly bloated administrative state, where huge information backlogs and impossibly redacted information are the norm. *CORRECTION: This article originally misstated the average length in years that it took the Commerce Department and the Department of Veterans Affairs to respond to a FOIA request. The post The Freedom of Information Act Is Failing Due to Government Bloat appeared first on Reason.com. As the landscape of public education and career-readiness continues to evolve, many Pikes Peak region school districts are investing heavily in developing new programming and partnerships to meet the needs of both students and the workforce. Heading into the 2025-26 school year, Lewis-Palmer District 38 is leading the charge with a new state-of-the-art facility for multiple new career pathways. Named the Career and Innovation Center, the standalone facility will be available to all district high schoolers and offer learning opportunities in fields unique to the area. The five pathways were determined by a combination of recent data on the regions current and future economic landscape, along with D-38s student interest and community advisory groups. Starting with Phase 1, juniors and seniors will have access to new coursework in advanced manufacturing, engineering and skilled trades at the center located at 1200 Synthes Ave. Available classes will include welding, aerospace engineering and electronics engineering as well as the home build project that was previously at Lewis-Palmer High School. Transportation will be provided to all students and classes will span two periods for more immersive experiences. Palmer Ridge High School has never had a home build and theyve never had a welding class, just because of their facilities, D-38s Secondary Programs Coordinator Jessica McAllister said. Now with this centralized facility, Palmer Ridge students are going to get to experience that. Phase 2 will eventually expand offerings to include computer science and health care pathways. While there isnt a concrete date for these programs, McAllister said their entry-level courses will be offered at existing schools as both the facility and advanced coursework continue to develop. In addition to the school districts own dollars invested in the program, a large part of rounding out the new centers programming is through a growing number of industry partnerships. McAllister said this emphasis on partnerships was planned early in the centers development, hoping to both educate current students and prepare the future workforce for local industries. We were having conversations with someone from Springs Fab [Fabrication], and he was saying that he cannot find welders, she said. And so, when we started telling him that we have 90 students that are interested in our welding program alone, that became really exciting to him. To date, Nova Flex, Integris and IEEE are among the centers nationwide partners, along with local employers like Jabil and education entities like the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and Westminster School District 50. D-38 has met with UCCS to discuss possible collaborations with the universitys electronic engineering course to ease matriculation, while D-50 recently donated $188,000 worth of equipment from its sunsetting trades program. McAllister said these partnerships, along with the various grants the district has applied for, have expanded their reach and planning for the incoming center. In addition to providing work-based learning and internship opportunities, she said the partnerships will also provide students with what she referred to as supervised entrepreneurial experiences to give them the opportunity to solve real problems that local industries currently face. Featured Local Savings How can we create projects that will serve your industry? So, were also taking about different ways in bringing the relevance and intentionality that is happening in industry to our learning environment, she said. In applying for the U.S. Department of Educations CTE CHIPS Challenge, D-38 will launch Colorados first high school course in electronics and semiconductor engineering and manufacturing in partnership with local industry leaders at the center. The nationwide competition, which was born out of the federal CHIPS Act signed into law in 2022 to grow domestic semiconductor production and manufacturing, would ultimately get terminated by the Department of Education July 17, but McAllister said experiences like this have offered them new opportunities to develop their offerings to students. We get to collaborate on a national level with these different competitors, but also bring in different voices from industry, the government about the importance of CHIPS-aligned occupations and training, she said. The nationwide competition was born out of the federal CHIPS Act signed into law in 2022, which seeks to grow domestic semiconductor production and manufacturing through funds and incentives. Further increasing its use as an overall community resource, McAllister said the plan is for the center to be open to adult learners during the summer months, weekends and after-school hours to develop their respective skills. Other developments Elsewhere in El Paso County, other districts are in the midst of their own respective CTE expansions. This fall, Colorado Springs D-11 will be ready to open the Colorado Springs School of Technology. Much like D-38s incoming center, the innovation zone will offer students the opportunities to work alongside local businesses and business leaders and earn industry certifications through internships and mentorships. Where it differs is that it will offer coursework focused on careers in aerospace, defense, cybersecurity, information technology and space technology. Students will also have opportunities for dual enrollment with the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak State College. While its not slated to open this fall, Academy D-20 is hard at work developing a new center for expanded career and technical education (CTE) programming as part of its rebuild of Air Academy High School. To complement the existing Center of Excellence at Liberty High School, the center will offer career pathways in aviation, advanced manufacturing/mechatronics, hospitality management/culinary, and computer programming/AI technology for all D-20 high school students. D-20 spokesperson Mark Belcher said talks to develop the new CTE offerings began several years ago as part of the districts long-term strategic planning. Conversations gained momentum as leadership evaluated district-wide facility needs, student interest, and workforce demands when considering the Air Academy rebuild through a 2024 bond vote. French health experts and patient associations on Tuesday urged authorities to protect the public from a bee-killing pesticide, saying the chemical could also harm children and adults. The legislation to reintroduce in France acetamiprid, a pesticide that is harmful to ecosystems but popular with many farmers in Europe, was adopted on July 8, but without a proper debate to bypass gridlock in a divided parliament. The move sparked anger in France, and support for a student-initiated petition against the legislation has snowballed, with university lecturers, left-wing lawmakers and star chefs backing it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The petition had garnered more than 2 million signatures by Tuesday. Health experts and patient associations have now weighed in, saying in an open letter in French daily Le Monde that they cannot back "a law that is dangerous to the health of our fellow citizens". President Emmanuel Macron, who has been under increasing pressure to act, said he is waiting to hear the verdict of the Constitutional Council, which is expected to rule on the constitutionality of the law on August 7. The health experts and patient associations urged the Constitutional Council to reject the legislation, calling on its members to "respond to the democratic demand strongly expressed by French citizens". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The signatories included Agnes Linglart, president of the French Paediatric Society, Olivier Coutard, president of the scientific council of France's flagship scientific research centre CNRS and Gerard Socie, president of the scientific council of the National Cancer Institute. The Constitutional Council, the letter said, must protect future generations from the legislation that "without a shadow of reasonable doubt compromises the health of young people, children and the unborn". The letter said the Senate committee preparing the bill heard from agricultural unions and government agencies but not "doctors, toxicologists or epidemiologists". The senators did not consult representatives of the CNRS, health and labour ministries, even though occupational exposure to pesticides is a risk factor for humans, the letter said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Citing the INSERM health and medical research organisation, the letter pointed to evidence of a link between exposure to pesticides and the occurrence of cancers, neurodegenerative, pulmonary and hormone-related disorders. Banned in France since 2018, the chemical remains legal in the European Union. ref-as/ekf/giv A Frontier Airlines flight from Seattle was evacuated at Denver International Airport on Monday after crewmembers discovered two threatening notes on board, but police later determined the threat was not credible. Flight 3406 landed safely at DIA around 11:15 a.m., about an hour behind schedule. Frontier said the crew found the notes during the flight and immediately notified law enforcement. Upon landing, the aircraft was met by emergency responders, including police officers, bomb technicians, and K9 units. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All passengers were evacuated and transported to the terminal by bus while authorities conducted a security sweep of the aircraft. The plane has been cleared and the threat appears to be unfounded at this time, the Denver Police Department said in a statement, directing further questions to the FBI. Later Monday afternoon, the FBIs Denver field office confirmed that no evidence of a credible threat had been found, though the agency did not release additional details. Passenger Roy Taylor, speaking from the airports baggage claim area, said he noticed something was wrong based on how the plane landed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Something happened that definitely spooked the pilot and the crew, Taylor told CBS News Colorado. When they landed, the plane stopped really fast, and then kind of like a hard right, and I knew the airport terminal was on the left. Taylor said he wasnt initially worried but sensed some panic. He praised how passengers stayed calm despite the uncertainty. Kelsey Hines, another passenger on the flight from Yelm, said communication from officials was limited and she learned most of the details from news coverage. Before reading the article on CBS, we thought there was a bomb on board, Hines said. There was bomb people, bomb dogs, the whole shebang just giving us a heads up about what the process was wouldve been nice so we werent all concerned as to what was going on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was on the flight with her 14-year-old son. While she is happy to be home, Hines wished for more transparency from the airline and investigators about what was going on. If it was directed at a specific person or the whole flight or the whole airport itself. We dont know anything, Hines said. And you are in buses with all of these people from your flight. You dont know if that person is on the bus with you, she continued. Frontier Airlines confirmed in a statement that the notes were found mid-flight and that all procedures were followed to ensure passenger safety. On Monday, July 28, as Frontier flight 3406 was en route from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Denver International Airport (DEN), crewmembers discovered two threatening notes on the aircraft. Law enforcement was promptly alerted, and the flight landed safely at DEN. A security sweep of the aircraft resulted in no findings of concern and the aircraft has been released back into service. Passengers were transported to the terminal via bus to be reunited with their luggage and/or continue with their travels, Frontier said in a statement. The FBI continues to investigate the source and content of the notes. SOCASTEE, S.C. (WBTW) One of President Trumps closest Congressional allies said Monday he wants the full release of files related to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein while praising the administrations transparency. For me, I take the president at his word that he wants to release this stuff. Im part of a resolution calling for the release of this information and so in time, I think he will do that, U.S. Rep. Russell Fry, R-7th District, said at the start of a tele-town hall meeting with constituents. Fry is among 13 co-sponsors of House Resolution 589, which calls on Attorney General Pam Bondi to make public records, documents and communications tied to the Epstein investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein killed himself, authorities say, in a New York jail cell in 2019 as he awaited trial on sex trafficking charges. Trump and his top allies stoked conspiracy theories about Epsteins death before Trump returned to power. They are now struggling to manage the fallout after the Justice Department said Epstein did, in fact, die by suicide and that it would not release additional documents about the case. The president and his allies, some of whom are now in the administration, had promised to release the files. Trump recently directed Bondi to seek the public release of sealed grand jury transcripts in the case. One federal judge has denied that request; a second judge has yet to rule. Vice President J.D. Vance on Monday also addressed the Epstein matter, saying the president wants full transparency in the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president has been very clear. Were not shielding anything, Vance said in response to a reporters question. The president has directed the attorney general to release all credible information and, frankly, to go and find additional credible information related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. Some of that stuff takes time, Vance said, adding that Trump has been very clear. He wants full transparency. Fry also blamed Democrats for politicizing the issue. The interesting thing about this whole process about Epstein is that Democrats had complete control under Biden, and if you look back at the Twitter timeline of any Democrat member of Congress, they werent talking about this until yesterday, he said. And you have to wonder why. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fry was asked by a Conway resident Monday whether he felt let down by Trump. I dont feel betrayed by the president, he said. What I know to be true is the Trump administration is the most transparent in the modern era, certainly in my lifetime. Information from The Associated Press was used in this article. * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on Monday launched a public inquiry into whether providers of gender-affirming health care are violating federal consumer protection laws. In a news release, the FTC said it opened the inquiry to better understand how consumers may have been exposed to false or unsupported claims about gender-affirming care, especially as it relates to minors, and to gauge the harms consumers may be experiencing. The agency said it is investigating whether medical professionals who provide transition-related care are violating federal law against deceptive business practices and false advertising by failing to disclose risks associated with treatment or making unsubstantiated claims about its benefits or effectiveness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The request for information issued by the FTC asks for the publics response to four questions about their experience with gender-affirming care and the doctors who administer it. The request, which opens a 60-day comment window, does not specify an exact age range but says the agency is interested in information related to care for minors in particular. Major medical organizations, including the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, say gender-affirming care for transgender adults and minors is medically necessary and can be lifesaving, claims disputed by the Trump administration. In January, President Trump signed an executive order aimed broadly at ending federal support for transition-related care for adolescents under the age of 19, which he called a stain on our Nations history. He has also pressed Congress to send legislation permanently banning and criminalizing gender-affirming care for minors to his desk. The FTCs announcement follows an earlier memo from the Department of Justice (DOJ) this month that it sent more than 20 subpoenas to doctors and clinics involved in performing transgender medical procedures on children in investigations of healthcare fraud, false statements, and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chad Mizelle, the DOJs chief of staff, said during a July 9 FTC event in Washington that the department also issued subpoenas to major manufacturers of the drugs used in trans-related medical interventions in investigations related to companies marketing of prescription drugs and the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The event, a workshop titled The Dangers of Gender-Affirming Care for Minors, featured testimony from doctors, advocates and de-transitioners, individuals who once identified as transgender but have since de-transitioned to live according to their birth sex, who oppose gender-affirming care. That testimony indicated that practitioners of gender-affirming care may be actively deceiving consumers, the FTC said Monday. The agencys workshop did not include testimony from anyone who supports care or said they had benefited from it. Roughly half the nation has banned gender-affirming care for minors since 2021, according to the Movement Advancement Project, a nonprofit tracking LGBTQ laws. In June, the Supreme Court upheld Tennessees ban, which a group of transgender children and their families had challenged as unconstitutional. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 14 states and Washington, D.C., shield laws protect access to gender-affirming care for youth, though some hospital systems in those states have still suspended or discontinued care because of Trumps order and threats from the administration to their federal funding. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Brief Fulton County officials are considering a proposed water and sewer rate increase beginning next year. The proposal would be a 5% rate increase over the next two years - about 50 cents per month for the average customer. A second meeting will take place in College Park on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the proposal. FULTON COUNTY, Ga. - Fulton County officials have shared new details on a proposed water and sewer rate increase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday night, leaders held a meeting about the issue at the South Fulton County Service Center in College Park. What we know The proposal would be a 5% rate increase over the next two years - that shakes up to about 50 cents per month for the average customer. If approved, the new rates would take effect on Jan. 1, 2026. The money would fund upgrades to the Camp Creek Water Reclamation Facility and support the county's revised 2025-2027 Capital Improvement Program. What they're saying "We don't take something like this lightly we take that seriously," said Terry Peters, the Fulton County Public Works deputy director. What you can do A second public hearing on the matter will take place at the South Fulton County Service Center on Stonewall Tell Road at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can also submit your comments in writing to The Fulton County Department of Public Works, 141 Pryor Street S.W., Suite 6001, Atlanta, Georgia 30303 or through e-mail at terry.peters@fultoncountyga.gov, Residents should put "Fulton County 2026-2027 Rate Structure" at the top of the first page of their comments or subject of their email. The Source Information for this article came from video of the Fulton County Department of Public Works meeting and a release by the agency. Ever since the 2022 global outbreak of mpox, the number of cases has died down in the United States, but Fulton County officials warn that mpox hasnt fully left Atlanta. At a Fulton County Board of Health meeting last week, the countys director of epidemiology, Sasha Smith, stated that mpox is one of the diseases that her team is keeping a close eye on as a number of cases sporadically fluctuated in Fulton County from July 2024 to June 2025. Were still conducting surveillance, but there were 48 cases reported, and we did see a peak during October and March, said Smith at the meeting, Its still circulating in the community. I think thats the important part. What is mpox? Mpox is a disease caused by a virus that is in the same family as the virus that causes smallpox. Its main symptom is a rash that can occur on the hands, feet, chest, face, mouth, or genitals, and it can be accompanied by other symptoms like fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of the 2022 outbreak, there were 818 cases reported in the county. After the vaccine became available to at-risk populations in the late summer of 2022, the number of cases drastically dropped to 31, but picked back up in 2024 to 48, according to Smith. One of the ways the disease can be contracted is from prolonged human-to-human contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or touching parts of the body with mpox sores. Read More: Mobile Mental Health Clinic Provides Services in Atlanta Who is contracting Mpox? During the outbreak, the LGBTQ community was a population particularly vulnerable to contracting the disease, and gay and bisexual men of color were especially at risk as they were disproportionately represented in the number of cases, according to the CDC. While Black people accounted for 12% of the U.S. population, they accounted for 33% of mpox cases at the time according to a report by KFF. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Georgia that disparity held true, as Black, gay men were disproportionately impacted by mpox in 2022. Black men made up more than 80% of the Mpox cases, whereas about 30% of Georgias population was Black in 2022. Of the 48 cases reported in Fulton County from July 2024 to June 2025, 96% of the cases were male, according to Smith. Women also contract the infection, but disproportionately, its always been gay, bisexual men, said Smith in an interview with Capital B Atlanta. She said that while the county is not anticipating a major outbreak of mpox cases, she stressed that at-risk residents should get vaccinated if they havent already. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justin Smith, the director of the Campaign to End AIDS at the Positive Impact Health Center in Atlanta, said the communities that have been most impacted by mpox are Black, gay men living with HIV and specifically those who are experiencing homelessness. The most vulnerable people had the worst outcomes, which in some ways you would sort of understand and sense that folks that have weaker immune systems and have less access to resources that would help keep them healthy namely having a home would have the worst outcomes, said Justin Smith in an interview with Capital B News Atlanta. Read More: We Spoke to An Atlanta Man with Monkeypox. Heres What We Learned. According to the CDC, people with HIV are overrepresented in mpox cases in the U.S. and are at increased risk of severe mpox and death if they contract the disease. In Georgia, of the cases reported in 2022, 60% of mpox cases were contracted in people that were HIV-positive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As HIV researchers and advocates have warned that looming budget cuts to HIV surveillance will negatively impact the states ability to tackle the HIV epidemic, Justin Smith said hes worried that these cuts could also affect the states ability to effectively respond to mpox cases. To me, the danger that we face as we continue to reduce the amount of resources that flow into our public health system, we will have a system that is less well-equipped to be able to respond to health threats in the future, he said. The post Mpox Isnt Just in the Past, Fulton County Health Officials Warn appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta. Funeral procession route for fallen Lorain officer Phillip Wagner CLEVELAND (WJW) The Lorain Police Department has announced the procession route that will carry the body of fallen officer Phillip Wagner to his final resting place on Wednesday. The procession will start at Rocket Arena, following the 11 a.m. public memorial service, and end in Bellevue where a private burial is set. Public memorial set for slain Lorain police officer Phillip Wagner Wednesday in Cleveland Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The procession will travel through several local communities. Members of the public are encouraged to line the procession route to pay their respects to Wagner, Lorain police announced in a Tuesday news release. PROCESSION ROUTE: Interstate 90 West out of downtown Cleveland Pass through the state Route 254 transition point Maintain Interstate 90 West and enter onto the Ohio Turnpike westbound Ohio Turnpike westbound to exit 110 to state Route 4 North Continue onto Portland Road West Portland Road West to Flat Rock Road South Flat Rock Road South (County Road 308) to U.S. Route 20 West U.S. Route 20 West to Riddle Road Final destination: York Chapel, 2252 County Road 292, Bellevue Police ask that residents do not gather along the Ohio Turnpike and other high-speed areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It should also be noted that select highway entrances will be closed during the procession. Watch: Moment of silence for slain officer Phillip Wagner at Guardians game We thank the community for their support, patience, and compassion during this time of mourning and remembrance, reads a Tuesday news release from Lorain police. Officer Wagner served with honor and integrity, and your presence along the route or at the service helps ensure his sacrifice is never forgotten. As FOX 8 News has previously reported, a private funeral service is set for Rocket Arena the morning of Wednesday, July 30, ahead of a public memorial service set to begin at 11 a.m. Doors open at 10 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city of Cleveland announced several road closures for the funeral and memorial. Beginning at 8 a.m. Wednesday: East 9th Street at Sumner Avenue; Erie Court; Erie Street Cemetery; Bolivar Road; and Prospect Avenue Huron Road at East 9th Place; East 8th Place; East 7th Street; and East 6th Street Beginning at 9 a.m. Wednesday: Ontario Street at Carnegie Avenue; Huron Road Wagner, a father of three, served in the United States Marine Corps and joined the Lorain Police Department in 2022. On July 23, he and fellow Lorain officer Peter Gale, 51, were having lunch in their patrol cars at the dead-end River Bend Drive in Lorain when they were ambushed by a gunman laying in wait with an arsenal of weapons, said Acting Police Chief Michael Failing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LaGrange rallies behind Lorain officers after attack Officer Brent Payne, 47, responded to help and was also shot. Both Gale and Payne survived. The gunman was killed in the exchange of gunfire. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. A Labour council has been criticised for approving the construction of an unsafe electric bus garage underneath high-rise flats. Barnet council gave the go-ahead to a planned redevelopment of Edgware town centre, in north-west London, that would see up to 190 electric buses being recharged underneath large residential tower blocks. Campaigners called the plans unsafe and warned that any underground fires could potentially place thousands of lives at risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nine of the [planned] tower blocks are structurally linked to the underground electric bus garage, said Anuta Zack, of the Save Our Edgware campaign group. This week, development company Ballymore won approval from councillors to build more than 3,000 flats on the 20-acre site, which is currently occupied by a shopping centre, Edgware bus station and its adjoining bus garage. An EV bus garage underneath the new development is a fire risk to residents, say campaigners - Ballymore The plans will see Edgware bus garage moved underneath the new development, away from its current location towards the rear of the site, which backs onto a terminus for London Undergrounds Northern line. Ms Zack added: Even Parliament has said you cant charge an electric vehicle under their buildings now. The council has approved an unsafe and undeliverable plan one that ignores fire safety, legal duties and the will of residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A London Fire Brigade consultation response about the proposed development, dated Oct 1 2024 and seen by The Telegraph, said: The structural integrity of many of the blocks above the bus garage is intrinsically dependent on the structural integrity of the bus garage below. This is particularly relevant in this proposal as the potential for so many EV buses poses risks that are not fully understood by the industry at this point in time. The response document adds: The proposals include a cycle storage area. It is our opinion that consideration is given to the storage (and potential charging) of electric bikes and electric scooters and the potential fire risk posed by these EPPVs (electric powered personal vehicles) which may be located within these areas. A Barnet council spokesman said: Stringent planning conditions have been placed on the proposed underground bus garage which those objecting to the scheme were most concerned about. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents should rest assured that it will only become operational when the London Fire Brigade and other building and safety regulators have confirmed they are satisfied the building is safe to be used, including for electric vehicle buses. Ballymore won approval to build more than 3,000 flats on the 20-acre site - Ballymore A London Fire Brigade spokesman said that senior firefighters had met Barnet council, Transport for London (TfL) and relevant stakeholders to ensure that any fire safety issues have been highlighted. We have also met, and engaged with, local residents to understand their concerns, particularly in relation to the provision of an underground bus garage at this development, the spokesman added. Despite not being a statutory consultee on such planning applications, we would always look to provide a response around the fire strategy in high-rise buildings, particularly where it also involves a potential fire hazard such as electric vehicles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior to the usage of the proposed garage by buses of any type, whether they be electric-powered or not, we are clear that a fire safety strategy shall be submitted to and agreed in writing by the local planning authority, in consultation with London Fire Brigade. This is to ensure that the development incorporates the necessary fire safety measures in accordance with the relevant policy of the London Plan. Safety of paramount importance A spokesman for the Edgware development, which is a joint venture between TfLs property company and Ballymore, said: The safety of residents and visitors is of paramount importance and we remain in ongoing dialogue with the London Fire Brigade. This new garage is a vital part of delivering electric buses across London, which is a key priority for TfL and the mayor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Electric buses will produce cleaner air for Londoners and as such the garage will be designed to accommodate electric buses. The bus garage at Edgware will not be operational until 2030 at the earliest and we remain clear that no electric vehicles will be permitted until TfL, the London Fire Brigade, Barnet council, the Health & Safety Executive and Building Control have approved the design. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A southeast Georgia man was charged after deputies said he threatened to shoot store employees over the price of cigarettes. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Around 7 p.m. on Sunday, Coffee County deputies responded to a report of an armed robbery at a convenience store on Highway 32. When deputies arrived, witnesses said a man, later identified as Michael Lee Ansel, 39, of Coffee County, walked inside the store and began arguing with employees about the price of cigarettes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to witnesses, Ansel left the store twice before returning a third time with a weapon. When he came in the last time, Ansel threatened the employees, stating, Im gonna shoot both of yall, deputies said. Deputies looked at surveillance video and searched for Ansel around 9:30 p.m. Coffee County officials said Ansel is a known resident with a criminal history. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around midnight, Ansel was located. The 39-year-old admitted to deputies that he walked into the store making threats to send them back in a box, citing that he was frustrated over the cigarette pricing advertised at $6 but sold for $12 as his motivation for the outburst, officials said. When deputies told Ansel he was being arrested and charged with terroristic threats, he didnt comply and jumped into a nearby pond. Ansel was pulled out of the water, and then he began having a seizure, deputies said. Deputies immediately rendered aid. Once he was medically cleared, he was booked into the Coffee County Jail. Authorities later learned Ansel was wielding a hatchet when he entered the store, according to Coffee County officials. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The post Gabby Thomas speaks on becoming a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha appeared first on ClutchPoints. Earlier this month, Olympic gold medalist Gabby Thomas was inducted as an honorary member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., alongside former White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, CNN anchor and analyst Laura Coates, and model Beverly Johnson. Thomas recently expressed gratitude in a statement on her personal X account. Deeply honored to be inducted as an Honorary Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sisterhood and service have always been very important to me, so to stand alongside a long line of leaders committed to serving and uplifting is truly an honor beyond words. Thank you to my @akasorority1908 sisters for welcoming me, and of course to my fellow honorary inducteesthe amazing @K_JeanPierre, @thelauracoates, and @BeverlyJohnson1 Thomas made Olympic history as the first Ivy League graduate to win a track and field medal. Her personal best time in the 200-meter sprint was 21.60 seconds, making her one of the fastest women in history. At the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, she won gold in the 200-meter and 4100-meter relay events after winning medals at the 2020 Tokyo Games. She is a Harvard University graduate with a masters degree in epidemiology and a degree in neurobiology and global health. She is a strong supporter of expanding diversity in STEM professions outside of the track and frequently utilizes her position to encourage young women of color to choose careers in public health and science. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Honorary membership is the highest recognition awarded by Alpha Kappa Alpha to women who best represent the organizations values of sisterhood, service, and scholarship. Full participation in the sororitys activities and community service projects is encouraged for honorary members. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., was founded on January 15, 1908, on the campus of Howard University by nine collegiate women. The sorority has over 380,000 members in both graduate and undergraduate chapters located in 12 countries. Thomas now joins a distinct list of honorary members of the sorority, including Brandy Norwood, Jada Pinkett Smith, Lisa Leslie, and Rosa Parks. Related: Prairie View A&M lands 3-star RB over Arizona, UNLV Related: Why Carson Vinson isnt proud to be the only HBCU player drafted to the NFL EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) In response to the recent flooding that has impacted families in the Vado area, representatives from the Dona Ana County/City of Las Cruces Office of Emergency Management will be working with staff from the Gadsden Independent School District (GISD) to coordinate critical relief efforts. Dona Ana County to conduct community cleanup after Vado floods This coordinated effort will take place starting at 9 a.m. Wednesday, July 30 at the Vado Speedway, located near the center of the affected community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During this event, GISD will assist Dona Ana County/City of Las Cruces Office of Emergency Management in identifying families directly impacted by the flooding, ensuring that resources reach those most in need, the school district said. They will provide much-needed food supplies, which will be delivered to the affected families in a controlled and targeted manner, the district added. This initiative underscores GISDs commitment to supporting families in times of crisis and highlights the strength of collaboration between local agencies, the district said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. SCITUATE, R.I. (WPRI) Rhode Islands largest river has come to a standstill near the Hope Dam in Scituate, where the normally rushing Pawtuxet has slowed to a trickle in recent days. The river, which flows from Scituate to Narragansett Bay, has seen below-average water levels near the dam, making it difficult for kayakers, paddleboarders, and small boats to navigate a usually popular launch area. The issue has drawn attention from several agencies, including the Scituate Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and the R.I. Department of Environmental Management (DEM). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hope-Jackson Fire Chief John Robinson told 12 News the problem doesnt lie with the dam itself, but rather a nearby gateway connected to the Hope Mill Complex. He explained that restriction boards at the gateway, which regulate water flow through the Hope Mill spillway, have failed. This has allowed water to bypass the area and travel further downstream, reducing water levels upstream. Robinson said a repair order has been filed and both Scituate EMA and DEM are working to address the issue, though it may take several days. In a statement, DEM said that while theyre aware of the issue, the current water levels dont pose a safety concern. Providence Water Supply is reportedly still releasing the same amount of water into the river daily, and levels should improve once the gateway is repaired. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. (NewsNation) Amid growing international pressure to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Israel has announced an indefinite daily pause in military operations to allow for the distribution of aid. The tactical pause will take place from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in Gaza City, Deir al-Balah and Muwasi, according to a social media post Sunday. Malnutrition rises as access to aid remains limited The announcement comes as severe acute malnutrition continues to rise across Gaza. One-fifth of children are currently affected, and up to half of those may not survive, Dr. Zaher Sahloul, co-founder and president of MedGlobal, told NewsNation Now on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two Americans detained in Iran on suspicion of spying for Israel MedGlobal delivers humanitarian aid to those in need around the world and has brought Sahloul to Gaza four times in the past four years. Every person in Gaza has some type of food insecurity, he said. Despite the temporary pause in fighting, many aid sites remain inaccessible due to the threat of violence and people in Gaza being physically unable to reach the locations. They know they may be killed waiting for food, Sahloul added. Houthis threaten to escalate attacks on ships tied to Israel Aid restrictions and accusations of misuse Israel has restricted aid to Gaza throughout the nearly two-year conflict, citing concerns that Hamas diverts supplies for its own use. From March through May, Israel blocked nearly all aid, according to The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., defended Israels position during an interview on NBCs Meet the Press, stating that over 94,000 truckloads of food have been supplied by Israel since the war began. He claimed, Hamas has stolen the food, a huge amount. Critics, however, argue that these claims lack substantial evidence and that Israels unwillingness to allow for widespread distribution of aid is a major contributor to the crisis. What to expect, and what not to, at the UN meeting on an Israel-Palestinian two-state solution Famine is getting worse, malnutrition is getting worse, and the reason is the blockade, Sahloul said. Temporary measures may be too little too late While the tactical pause may allow for increased aid delivery temporarily, humanitarian organizations warn that it is not a long-term solution. Many argue that without a sustained ceasefire, the suffering will continue and get worse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only giving food like this will not sustain the population. We need to have a ceasefire. Sahloul said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. The hunger crisis in Gaza has become visible from space as thousands of Palestinians can be seen crowding around aid trucks in new satellite imagery. The images show a mass of thousands of people gathered around 15 lorries as they reached the south of the war-torn Strip on Saturday in a display of desperation. It came as the global body responsible for monitoring hunger warned on Tuesday that the worst-case scenario of famine is now unfolding in the territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) an initiative made up of 21 aid groups, governments and UN agencies said: Mounting evidence shows that widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths. Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, conceded that the situation in the Strip was difficult, saying Israel was working to allow in large quantities of aid. Internally displaced Palestinians carry bags of flour near a food distribution point in Zikim, in the northern Gaza Strip - MOHAMMED SABER/EPA/Shutterstock The IPC has not yet formally designated Gaza as being in a state of famine a specific and stringent classification which requires intensive collection of data but said it would conduct that analysis without delay. In order for the body to declare famine, it will have to prove that at least 20 per cent of Gazas 2.1 million population (equal to 420,000 people) are experiencing an extreme lack of food. More than 30 per cent of children under five also have to be suffering from acute malnutrition, and at least two people per 10,000 die from starvation per day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the alert, the IPC also warned that aid which could avert a hunger crisis remains extremely restricted due to requests for humanitarian access being repeatedly denied and frequent security incidents. It added: Despite the easing of the blockade on 19 May, only a trickle of humanitarian assistance, mainly food, has entered the Gaza Strip. Bakeries remain closed, and community kitchens though operational are vastly inadequate to meet the scale of need. Data shared with The Telegraph by Unicef last week suggests the situation has been rapidly deteriorating month on month. In January, 2,846 children were diagnosed with malnutrition a figure that has more than doubled to 5,870 in June. A child pleads for food at a charity kitchen in Gaza - REUTERS/Khamis Al-Rifi In July alone, at least 63 people, including 24 children under five, died from hunger, most showing signs of severe wasting, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel strongly denies it has a policy of starving Gazans, accusing foreign capitals and much of the foreign media of parroting a Hamas famine narrative. On Sunday, the government announced it would instigate a series of daily pauses in combat operations in certain key population areas, as well as establishing safe routes for aid trucks. The UN and other NGOs have welcomed the move but said access needed to be drastically expanded to avert humanitarian disaster. Jordan and the United Arab Emirates airdropped supplies into the territory, while France said it would drop aid into Gaza in the coming days, AFP news agency reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A report in the Qatar-owned New Arab outlet suggested that approximately half of the aid trucks that had entered from Egypt had been looted, with the contents sold in local markets. The UN has also said its drivers have encountered looting from a febrile and desperate population. Israel alleges that Hamas is conducting widespread looting of aid trucks. On Tuesday the Gaza Health Ministry, which comes under the control of Hamas, said Israels military operation in the Strip had killed at least 60,000 Palestinians since October 7 2023. It said most of the Palestinians killed were civilians, although the body has previously been accused of failing to distinguish between terrorists and non-combatants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were unconfirmed reports of approximately 30 Gazan civilians killed in Israeli air strikes overnight, with more than 100 killed in the past 24 hours by both shootings and air strikes. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Gaza is slipping into famine, UN agencies warned on Tuesday, as the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory said the Palestinian death toll in the nearly 22-month war had topped 60,000. The World Food Programme, UNICEF and the Food and Agriculture Organisation warned that time was running out and that Gaza was "on the brink of a full-scale famine". "We need to flood Gaza with large-scale food aid, immediately and without obstruction, and keep it flowing each and every day to prevent mass starvation," WFP executive director Cindy McCain said in a joint statement from the agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This week, Israel launched daily pauses in its military operations in some parts of Gaza and opened secure routes to enable UN agencies and other aid groups to distribute food in the densely populated territory of more than two million. However, Israeli strikes continued overnight, killing 30 people in the Nuseirat refugee camp, according to Gaza's civil defence agency -- and experts warned a humanitarian catastrophe of historic proportions is imminent. "The worst-case scenario of famine is now unfolding in the Gaza Strip," said the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification Initiative (IPC), a group of monitors who advise the United Nations on impending crises. The IPC stopped short of declaring a state of famine, but made clear the situation is critical. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - Urgent action now - Britain, France and Germany could send their foreign ministers to Israel next week, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said, adding: "We assume that the Israeli government is willing to acknowledge that something must be done now." In a statement released ahead of the IPC report, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office accused Hamas of distorting casualty figures and of looting food intended for civilians. "While the situation in Gaza is difficult and Israel has been working to ensure aid delivery, Hamas benefits from attempting to fuel the perception of a humanitarian crisis," his office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We already allow significant amounts of humanitarian aid into Gaza every single day, including food, water and medicine. Unfortunately, Hamas... has been stealing aid from the Gaza population, many times by shooting Palestinians." Israel's international isolation increased Tuesday, when Britain joined France in proposing to recognise a Palestinian state as early as September. "I have always said that we will recognise a Palestinian state as a contribution to a proper peace process at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution," Prime Minister Keir Starmer said. "With that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel's reaction was much like its response to a similar announcement last week by French President Emmanuel Macron. It "constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza", the foreign ministry said. Israel imposed a total blockade on Gaza on March 2 after ceasefire talks broke down. In late May, it began allowing a small trickle of aid to resume, amid warnings of a wave of starvation. Then on Sunday, faced with mounting international criticism, Israel began a series of "tactical pauses" while allowing aid trucks to pass through two border crossings into Gaza, and Jordanian and Emirati planes to conduct airdrops. Deliveries have been ramped up, but the IPC said this effort would not prove enough unless aid agencies were granted "immediate, unimpeded" humanitarian access. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Failure to act now will result in widespread death in much of the Strip," it said, adding that 16 children under the age of five had died of hunger since July 17. According to Netanyahu's office, the pause in military operations covers "key populated areas" between 10:00 am (0700 GMT) and 8:00 pm every day. Designated aid convoy routes will be secure from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm. COGAT, an Israeli defence ministry body in charge of civil affairs in the Palestinian territories, said more than 200 truckloads of aid were distributed on Monday. - Air strikes - Another 260 trucks were permitted to cross into Gaza to deposit aid at collection points, four UN tankers brought in fuel and 20 pallets of aid were airdropped from Jordanian and Emirati planes, COGAT said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gaza's civil defence agency said that Israeli air strikes killed at least 30 Palestinians, including women and children, in the central Nuseirat district. The Israeli military said it had "struck several terror targets in the central Gaza Strip", but that the number of reported casualties "does not align with the information held by the (military)". The Hamas-run territory's health ministry said Israel's campaign had now killed 60,034 people, most of them civilians. The war was sparked by Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, the majority civilians, based on an AFP tally of official figures. bur-dc/kir/dcp The worst-case scenario of famine is playing out in the Gaza Strip, the leading international authority on food crisis said in an alert Tuesday as aid workers urge immediate action to avoid thousands of preventable deaths. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC, issued the alert but stopped short of a formal famine declaration. The warning comes amid international outrage over images of emaciated children and increased reports of death due to starvation in Gaza. The crisis follows months of Israels tightening of humanitarian aid deliveries in the Strip amid its war against Hamas for the Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, President Trump said there was real starvation in Gaza, signaling a break with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had said there was no starvation in Gaza. The president said the U.S would look into setting up food centers in Gaza. But the administration is drawing scrutiny and criticism for its support of the American-founded Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which has handled distribution of food in the Strip for months and is criticized for contributing to chaotic, dangerous and undignified aid deliveries with people killed and injured searching for food. Amid international pressure and Frances declaration it will recognize an independent Palestinian state last week, the Israeli government announced over the weekend it would carry out tactical pauses in fighting to allow for aid distribution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jerusalem said it opened up additional corridors for humanitarian assistance and carried out and granted air drops of aid. But humanitarian workers in the Strip say this is far short of the response needed to prevent thousands or potentially tens of thousands of people from dying. Air drops are just not a solution. Theyre a spectacle. Theyre theatrics, Bushra Khalidi of Oxfam said during a briefing of humanitarian workers organized Tuesday by the nongovernmental organization Save the Children. You cant feed starving children by tossing energy bars from the sky. People have already been injured by falling palettes. Theyve died by falling palettes, and the chaos around these drops only adds to the suffering. The Gaza Health Ministry is reporting that 147 people, including 88 children, have died from malnutrition and starvation since October 2023, part of the more than 60,000 people killed since the start of the war. Hamas killed approximately 1,200 people and took 251 hostage in its 2023 attack on Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the health ministry does not distinguish Hamas militants in the figures, the numbers are widely accepted by the United Nations and other international organizations. Israel estimates it has killed 20,000 Palestinian militants. The IPC alert said malnutrition has been rising rapidly in the first half of July and has reached the famine threshold in Gaza City. More than 20,000 children have been admitted for treatment for acute malnutrition between April and mid-July, with more than 3,000 severely malnourished, the report said. We have many children now in our child protection services saying that they wish to die. In heaven, in paradise, there is food, there is water, Rachael Cummings, humanitarian director for Save the Children International in Gaza, said in the briefing. Yesterday, in the clinic, one of the things that struck me, not only was the sort of visual impact of seeing so many people extremely thin, it was nearly silent because children cry, but theyre so exhausted, theyre so sick, theyre no longer able to cry. And that, I think for me, was really one of the most significant things Ive ever seen in my career. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tarek Loubani, a Canadian doctor working in Gaza, said the malnutrition numbers are extremely conservative and that death due to malnutrition is only classified when there is no other comorbidity. What weve seen every other time is that the numbers are about 10 percent of the reality, and probably thats what were looking at here in terms of malnutrition and starvation, said Loubani, who is also the medical director for the Glia Project, which provides medical supplies to impoverished locations. Loubani also pointed out that malnutrition is another devastating hardship on top of scarce resources for patients. Families donating blood for relatives wounded in bombings or shootings have difficulty replenishing their own blood supply because theres no iron, theres no nutritious food. Loubani said he has lost about 44 pounds living and working in Gaza because there is so little food to eat for medical and aid workers. He said a handful of rice was his recent meal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In terms of the physicians and health care workers I work with, they are suffering. Their families are suffering. Everybody here is suffering, he said. The IPC report said the sufficient delivery of humanitarian assistance can only be possible with a ceasefire, and that would require scaling up the flow of goods, restoring basic services and ensuring safe, unimpeded access to life-saving assistance. Trumps special envoy for peace missions left talks with Hamas last week blaming the U.S.-designated terrorist group as being the obstacle to a deal. He said the administration will consider alternative options to bring the hostages home and try to create a more stable environment for the people of Gaza. Hamas holds about 20 living hostages it kidnapped from Israel on Oct. 7 and about 30 bodies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels, with health care workers now succumbing to hunger alongside their patients, according to the humanitarian group Doctors Without Borders. "It's catastrophic, and the famine conditions have been in the works for many, many months," Avril Benoit, executive director of Doctors Without Borders USA, told ABC News. "People are starving, even our own aid workers in hospitals are fainting, are feeling weak. They're not sure when they will see their next meal." The dire situation affecting medical staff further compromises their ability to care for patients, creating a compounding crisis in healthcare delivery, says Benoit. Medical workers are eating just once every two days while trying to maintain critical care services, according according to Benoit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: USAID analysis finds no evidence of widespread aid diversion by Hamas in Gaza The organization's recent survey revealed that one in four patients who were children, pregnant women or lactating mothers were found to be malnourished. -/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: A boy strokes the neck of a donkey as they stand amidst rubble following overnight Israeli bombardment on the Japanese neighbourhood in the northwest of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip on July 28, 2025. This severe malnutrition is particularly concerning for patients recovering from injuries, Benoit explained, as "they need nutrition to be able to recover their bodies, need the calories and the micronutrients to be able to fight off infections." As of Monday, at least 147 people have died of hunger since the war began on Oct. 7, 2023, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health. Of the total deaths due to hunger, at least 88 have been children, the ministry said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification global initiative, which measures food insecurity, issued an alert that the "worst-case scenario of famine" is unfolding in Gaza. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly denied reports of widespread starvation, Benoit told ABC News she strongly disputes this claim. "He's not credible," she stated, describing what she calls "a campaign of starvation" that extends beyond food shortages. The crisis includes limited access to clean drinking water, insufficient fuel for hospital operations, and restricted medical supplies. The Israeli government has denied that it is limiting the amount of aid entering Gaza and has claimed Hamas steals aid meant for civilians. Hamas has denied these claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A USAID analysis appeared to undercut some of the assertions from the Trump administration and Israeli officials about the extent to which Hamas had stolen humanitarian aid. A presentation reviewed by ABC News, examining more than 150 reported incidents involving the theft or loss of U.S.-funded humanitarian aid in the war-torn Gaza Strip says it failed to find any evidence that Hamas -- the militant rulers of the Palestinian enclave -- engaged in widespread diversion of assistance. MORE: 'I don't know': Trump appears to contradict Netanyahu about Gaza starvation crisis So far, Palestinians and NGOs have said there is not enough food to ease the hunger crisis, and the organization is calling for a sustained ceasefire to enable effective aid distribution. According to Benoit, this would allow for "therapeutic foods, fuel to run the desalination plants" and other essential supplies to reach those in need. "Responsibility for food distribution to the population in Gaza lies with the UN and international aid organizations," the IDF said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite recent initiatives, including airdrops of humanitarian aid, Benoit argued these efforts are inadequate. "Airdrops are an incredibly inefficient and costly way to deliver food when you've got trucks and trucks and trucks a few miles across the border that are just waiting to get in," she said. Organizations, including Doctors Without Borders, have also criticized the airdrops as being "notoriously ineffective and dangerous." For those looking to help, Benoit directed people to visit the Doctors Without Borders website for information about their ongoing medical operations in the region. President Donald Trump addressed the ongoing hunger crisis in Gaza on Monday in Scotland, where he addressed the urgency of getting food into the enclave immediately, while doing it safely and securely. "The United States recently, just a couple of weeks ago, we gave $60 million No other nation gave money," as he urged other nations "to step up." $30 million in U.S. contributions to Gaza have been channeled through the U.S.- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) began its operations on May 27, the organization has partnered with local Palestinian aid workers and non-governmental organizations to deliver 97 million meals to date to Gazans. Israel Announces Immediate Resumption Of Gaza Aid Airdrops Amid Growing Hunger Crisis People carry boxes of relief supplies from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a private U.S.-backed aid group that has bypassed the longstanding U.N.-led system in the territory, as displaced Palestinians return from an aid distribution centre in the central Gaza Strip on June 8, 2025. GHF spokesperson Chapin Fay told Fox News Digital that GHF "has one exclusive mission: to feed the people of Gaza in a way that prevents Hamas from being able to steal or loot or divert the aid." In addition to having "zero diversion," Fay said GHF has "put [aid] directly into the hands of the people who need it the most." Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At its four distribution sites in Gaza, it provides boxes of aid sufficient to provide 2,400 daily calories for 5.5 people over a total of 3.5 days. GHFs sites are able to distribute, on average, 2 million total meals per day. Fay said GHF has also started a potato pilot program which has seen "hundreds of tons of potatoes" delivered into Gaza. Another new pilot program in association with local Gazan NGO Al-Amal has allowed GHF to deliver 2,000 boxes of food to families in Gaza. Fay said that GHF is in the process of scaling up the operation, vetting hundreds of inquiries received since the programs announcement and working on establishing additional local NGO partnerships. The U.N. has lambasted GHFs distributions, with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini calling the organization an "abomination" that "provides nothing but starvation and gunfire to the people of Gaza." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump Hits Eu For Lack Of Gaza Aid, Says Israel Needs To Make A Decision With Hamas Not Releasing Hostages Though media headlines are thick with accusations of violence at GHF sites, Fay said that the reality of GHF distributions "is almost the opposite of what you read about, what you see on TV." Though he admitted that "theres some chaos when thousands of desperate, hungry people are trying to get aid," he claims that only two violent incidents have transpired at GHF distributions. A stampede and a grenade attack that harmed two American veteran employees were "Hamas-fomented terrorist attacks," he said. The U.N. and many NGOs have also opposed GHFs use of armed security to protect aid-seekers. However, U.N. data shows that only 8% of U.N. aid had reached its destination without being looted in the last 10 weeks, according to a Reuters report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fay says that GHF is ready and willing to provide security support for U.N. aid. "We need to stop pretending that theres only one way to get aid into Gaza," he explained. The Israel Defense Forces said that 121 trucks of aid from "the UN and the international community" crossed into Gaza on May 28, 2025. As GHF continues to assist Gazans, Fay says the organization has "adapt[ed] in a dynamic environment, and our distributions seem to be going more smoothly every day." New adaptations include a red-light, green-light system to indicate whether distribution sites are open and a suggestion from aid-seekers. GHF has also added more shelf-stable onions to its aid boxes. Fay said that workers are also holding back some aid to ensure that women and children receive needed assistance. Because of this change, Fay says he recently "saw women leaving and smiling at our personnel with their onions on their way home." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement GHF is set to deliver its 100 millionth meal to Gazans later this week. Reuters contributed to this report. Original article source: Gaza Humanitarian Foundation: What to know about the US-backed aid group A worst-case famine scenario is unfolding in Gaza and urgent intervention is needed to prevent widespread death, a U.N.-backed international food security body has warned. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) latest update, published on Tuesday, concluded that mounting evidence shows that widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths, and famine thresholds have been met for food consumption across most of Gaza. The alert, still short of a formal famine declaration, comes amid dozens of hunger-related deaths in Gaza and international outrage over photos of emaciated children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.N echoed concerns raised in the report, saying that humanitarian access in Gaza remains severely restricted. It added that Israel is now allowing humanitarian pauses with more than 100 aid trucks allowed to enter Gaza on Sunday. This is not a warning. It is a reality unfolding before our eyes, U.N. secretary-general Antonio Guterres said in a statement, adding that the trickle of aid must become an ocean. A total of 122 Palestinians have died in Gaza from starvation, including 83 children, according to Gazas Health Ministry. Last week, the Health Ministry reported that there were 28,000 cases of malnutrition in Gaza, with over 5,000 recorded in July alone. Read more: Journalists In Gaza Are Documenting Their Own Starvation Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The IPC warned that according to its latest analysis, conducted in May, the entire population of Gaza would face high levels of acute food insecurity by September 2025. This included half a million by people in catastrophe described by the IPC as an extreme lack of food, starvation, destitution and death. The report added that one in three people are going days at a time without food, calling for action to allow for unimpeded, large-scale, life-saving humanitarian response. This is the only path to stopping further deaths and catastrophic human suffering, it said. There is no starvation in Gaza, no policy of starvation in Gaza, and I assure you that we have a commitment to achieve our war goals, said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, prior to the IPC report. Famine declaration An area is classified as in famine when three conditions are met: at least 20% of households face extreme food shortages or near-total starvation; at least 30% of children aged six months to five years suffer from acute malnutrition, or wasting; and at least two adultsor four children under fiveper 10,000 people die each day from starvation or the combined effects of malnutrition and disease. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A formal famine declaration is rare and requires reliable datasomething largely unavailable in Gaza due to restricted access. The IPC has declared famine only a few times: Somalia in 2011, South Sudan in 2017 and 2020, and parts of Sudans Darfur region in 2023. Trump says starvation crisis in Gaza is real The new report comes after President Donald Trump appeared to diverge from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus assertion that there is no starvation in Gaza, describing images of emaciated children as real. Speaking from his Turnberry resort in Scotland during a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump also announced plans for the U.S. to establish food centers inside Gaza in an effort that would involve international partners and U.S. funding. Were going to spend a little money on some food, he said. Other nations are joining us. The move marked a notable shift for Trump, who has largely avoided criticizing Israel throughout the 21-month war in Gaza. He acknowledged that Israel bears a lot of responsibility for restrictions on humanitarian aid, even as he continued to blame Hamas for the failure of ceasefire talks and the ongoing hostage crisis. Thats real starvation stuff, he said. You cant fake that. Were going to be even more involved. Aid organizations call for Israel to allow more aid into Gaza Aid organizations have consistently called for Israel to allow more essential food and medical supplies into Gaza. On July 23, over 100 international organizations urged governments to work towards opening land crossings into Gaza in order to restore the full flow of food, clean water, medical supplies, shelter items, and fuel through a principled, U.N.-led mechanism, in a joint statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the Israel-Hamas war began, an average of 500 trucks were entering the strip daily. That changed on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a terror attack on Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking approximately 250 hostages. In retaliation, Israel imposed a total siege on Gaza, halting the entry of all goods, including humanitarian aid. Since May 27, Israel has allowed aid to be distributed into Gaza under a new distribution system led by the U.S Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Israel has denied that it is deliberately halting aid from entering the strip, accusing Hamas of stealing supplies within Gaza that have been provided by GHF. On Tuesday, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) published a video in which it claims that armed Hamas members are looting an aid truck, preventing others from taking any of the supplies. On July 25, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) said that it found no evidence of systematic theft of aid by Hamas. The internal government analysis examined 156 incidents between October 2023 and May 2025, finding no reports alleging Hamas of stealing U.S-funded aid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement GHF says that as of Monday, it has delivered 96 million meals in Gaza. IPCs report on Tuesday says that despite GHFs claims of high distribution, most of the food items are not ready-to-eat and require water and fuel to cook, which are largely unavailable. It added that GHF has four aid distribution points, primarily in militarized zones in the south of Gaza where roughly a quarter of the total population lives. Reaching these distribution points requires long, high-risk journeys, with unequal access across governorates, the report said. Since GHF operations began in May, the U.N. says that over 1,000 Palestinians have died while seeking aid. 766 of these deaths occurred at or in the vicinity of GHF distribution sites. The fastest and most effective way to save lives right now is to open every border crossing, Tjada D'Oyen McKenna, head of Mercy Corps, the international relief agency, said in a statement Tuesday. Aid organizations have consistently called for Israel to allow more essential food and medical supplies into Gaza. Ali JadallahAnadolu via Getty Images First Israeli human right groups accuses Israel of genocide Two Israeli human rights groups, BTselem and Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI) became the first Israeli groups of their kind to describe Israels conduct in Gaza as genocide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We never thought wed write this report, but we also believed this would never be our reality, BTselem Executive Director Yuli Novak said in a report published Monday titled Our Genocide. The report continues to say that there is no doubt that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, citing the Gaza Health Ministry's figures of 60,000 Palestinians killed, as well as destruction on a massive scale, starvation, displacement, and the denial of humanitarian aid, all of which has been conducted systematically BTselem claim. In the absence of independent monitoring on the ground, the ministry is the primary source for casualty data. Its figures do not differentiate between civilian and casualty figures and cannot be independently verified by TIME. PHRI concluded in its report that Israels is killing, inflicting serious bodily and mental harm, and deliberately imposing conditions of life intended to destroy the Palestinian population in Gaza, in whole or in part, in line with articles under the Genocide Convention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It added that there is sufficient evidence to conclude that these actions have been carried out with the intent required by Article II of the Convention. The IDF has called the allegations in the reports completely unfounded, saying that it is taking unprecedented measures to prevent harm to civilians, in a statement to TIME. The IDF forcefully rejects the allegation of deliberate starvation of the civilian population. The IDF is allowing the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip in line with the Governments directives, and allows international organizations to carry out its distribution, the statement read. Marjorie Taylor Greene calls Israel's actions genocide Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia on Monday evening became the first Republican member of Congress to say a genocide is occurring in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the most truthful and easiest thing to say that Oct 7th in Israel was horrific and all hostages must be returned, but so is the genocide, humanitarian crisis, and starvation happening in Gaza, Greene wrote in a post on X. The Georgia congresswoman made the comments as part of a criticism of her Republican colleague Rep. Randy Fine of Florida, who has faced backlash over social media posts he has made in recent days about the situation in Gaza. There is no starvation, Fine wrote on Monday. Everything about the Palestinian cause is a lie. In an earlier post last week, he called news of famine in Gaza Muslim terror propaganda, writing: Release the hostages. Until then, starve away. Greene spearheaded a failed effort to formally rebuke Rep. Rashida Tlaib, a Democrat of Michigan, for accusing of Israel during a pro-Palestinian protest two years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But her remarks on Monday mark the latest escalation in a longer shift in her position on the matter. I can unequivocally say that what happened to innocent people in Israel on Oct 7th was horrific, Greene wrote in another post on Sunday. Just as I can unequivocally say that what has been happening to innocent people and children in Gaza is horrific. This war and humanitarian crisis must end! Earlier in July, she introduced an amendment to the defense funding bill that would have stripped funding from Israels Iron Dome missile defense system. The amendment failed to garner sufficient support, securing only six votesamong them, Rep. Tlaibs. Contact us at letters@time.com. When a wise man points at the moon, the imbecile examines the finger. This proverb attributed to Conficius pinpoints the human tendency to focus on a message, messenger or concept instead of the reality that it signals, especially when that reality might be uncomfortable or upsetting. Today, it is acutely relevant to the ongoing killing and starvation in Gaza. Many scholars, lawyers, journalists and officials have defined the Government of Israels actions in Palestine as genocide, war crimes, or crimes against humanity. The Government of Israel and its allies refute these claims, but often do so on the grounds of antisemitism or ulterior motive rather than any objective truth about events themselves. At the same time, many activists use these concepts without a comprehensive understanding of their theoretical implications. Genocide is distinct from other crimes. It is not a word to be used lightly, or a way of describing an ordinary crime on a larger scale. Genocide requires a political and ideological foundation that enables the justification at both institutional and collective levels of the extermination of a people and their culture, and casts it as a legitimate or even desirable course of action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To think in terms of genocide, we therefore have to look beyond the individual, and analyse episodes of mass violence as political, historical and anthropological events. Leer mas: Why have so few atrocities ever been recognised as genocide? Conceptualising genocide Though genocides have occurred throughout human history, the term itself is a neologism, coined by the Polish lawyer Raphael Lemkin in the early 1940s. He did this by reconstructing various historical events that had brought about the destruction of cultures. Building on the work of Polish anthropologist Bronisaw Malinowski, he found examples of such destruction in European colonial expansion around the globe, and acts such as the mass killing of Armenians in Anatolia during World War I. After evaluating these events, he concluded that there were no effective legal or political instruments to protect cultural groups from an imminent threat of destruction. This led him to fight for the international recognition of just such a protective framework. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lemkin himself experienced the absence of safeguards when he was forced to flee Nazi persecution, leaving behind many family members who would be killed for their Jewish identity during World War II. While in exile in the United States after the end of the war, he succeeded in persuading the newly established United Nations (UN) to adopt his new concept. In Resolution 96 of the UN General Assembly of 11 December 1946, we can clearly see Lemkins influence, and the presence of historical and anthropological elements in the definition of genocide. The Resolution, entitled The Crime of Genocide, reads as follows: Genocide is a denial of the right of existence of entire human groups, as homicide is the denial of the right to live of individual human beings; such denial of the right of existence shocks the conscience of mankind, results in great losses to humanity in the form of cultural and other contributions represented by these human groups, and is contrary to moral law and to the spirit and aims of the United Nations. Many instances of such crimes of genocide have occurred when racial, religious, political and other groups have been destroyed, entirely or in part. Leer mas: Genocide's legal limitations: what the Srebrenica massacre can teach us about Gaza Collective crime, collective victims From this moment on, attempts began to make the concept fit within legal and political frameworks. But genocide is not a clearly defined legal or political standard. Rather, it is a way of understanding a unique kind of violent process, and debates on how to define it continue to this day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Influential thinkers such as Philippe Sands especially his seminal 2016 work East West Street: On the Origins of Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity have reinforced a common belief in the legal superiority of the concept of crimes against humanity. This is largely because Sands follows Hersch Lauterpachts argument, which emphasises the primacy of the individual. However, genocide is an inherently collective crime both in terms of its perpetrators and its victims. According to some readings of Sands argument, the individual takes precedence because they fit into our established notions and structures of criminal justice, which are built to identify and prosecute individual perpetrators of specific crimes. When it comes to genocide, however, applying this framework has always been less about legal rigour, and more the result of political weakness. Put simply, it is easier to prosecute a handful of ringleaders than an entire government or military. Even this individualised model falls short. Despite widespread calls to recognise the Israeli governments actions as genocide including from Israel-based human rights groups recent months have seen countries such as Hungary and the US flaunt ICC arrest warrants for Israeli officials. Israels allies in the US, UK and EU have also refused to take political action by applying sanctions, and continue to supply Israel with weapons. This shows that genocide is a fundamentally political crime. There can be no prosecution under international law without political enforcement, whether this takes the form of diplomatic pressure or more direct military action against the aggressor. Leer mas: Gaza is starving how Israel's allies can go beyond words and take meaningful action Genocide in Palestine When we talk about genocide, we must be specific. The key question is not to determine whether the conditions have been met to judge specific perpetrators of specific acts of violence as genocidal, but rather to understand the logic behind the practices. A conviction for genocide or crimes against humanity does not save lives, but the very consideration that genocide is being committed or has been committed carries profound political implications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nevertheless, what we are witnessing in Gaza demonstrates the strength of this concept, not its weakness. As academics, we debate whether the type of mass violence used by Israel constitutes genocide, but so does the outraged public as it protests in the streets worldwide. The same even goes for the Israeli government and its supporters they cannot avoid thinking about genocide, even if only to deny it. Defining Israels violence in Palestine as genocidal will not stop the killings, but neither would any other legal classification. Accepting such an interpretation only serves to shift the focus away from the party that is ultimately responsible: politics. Regardless of any doubts or limitations, thinking and talking about genocide remains a potent tool for keeping our eyes on the moon, and not on the finger pointing at it. Este articulo fue publicado originalmente en The Conversation, un sitio de noticias sin fines de lucro dedicado a compartir ideas de expertos academicos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lee mas: Antonio Miguez Macho no recibe salario, ni ejerce labores de consultoria, ni posee acciones, ni recibe financiacion de ninguna compania u organizacion que pueda obtener beneficio de este articulo, y ha declarado carecer de vinculos relevantes mas alla del cargo academico citado. Sometimes name recognition isnt all its cracked up to be. Just ask Geoffrey Epstein. Epstein, whos running for mayor in Framingham, Massachusetts, is obviously a different one from the disgraced late New York financier Jeffrey Epstein, who is back in the headlines as Republicans wrestle with each other over the release of documents related to his trafficking of underage girls. But the shared name does draw some comments from people online pleading with him to show us the list, Geoffrey Epstein said. Take one Redditor, who recently posted a photo of an Epstein for Mayor mailer under the header, Is this guy for real? Other commenters, familiar with the former Framingham School Committee member, offered support: Hes got good ideas about the citys finances, wrote one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Framingham mayoral hopeful who goes by Geoff says its not much of an issue among locals, who know him from his work with public schools. No one locally cares about that at all, said Epstein, a former theoretical physics professor who moved to the U.S. from Australia decades ago. Among the abundance of differences between the two: He's a dead American, and I'm an alive Australian, Epstein said. Epstein, who served on the school committees in both Newton and Framingham, both major Boston suburbs, got in the race to tackle problems he sees the city facing. His campaign, he said, is focused on education, infrastructure and environmental action, and he has no shortage of solutions hes pitching from expanding solar installations on school roofs and in school parking lots, to shifting more of the citys budget toward education. Hell face a demanding fight against incumbent Mayor Charlie Sisitsky, who had more than $61,000 in his campaign coffers as of last month, compared to Epsteins roughly $5,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luckily for Epstein, a tough name doesnt necessarily tank a campaign. Look at Harvey Epstein, the New York state assemblymember, whose name unfortunately evokes two of New Yorks most notorious sex perverts, as comedian John Mulaney put it in a spoof campaign ad on Saturday Night Live. That Epstein recently won the Democratic primary for a New York City Council seat, spoiling the attempted political comeback of former Rep. Anthony Weiner yet another notorious sexual miscreant in the process. Harveys tip: My advice to Geoffrey would be to lead with your values and who you are as a candidate, the New York Epstein said over the phone. People will support you if you do the work and follow through. This reporting first appeared in Massachusetts Playbook. Sign up to receive it in your inbox every weekday. Weeks ahead of the new school year, the Georgia Student Finance Commission says nearly 15,300 families have applied for vouchers from the Georgia Promise Scholarship. As of July 22, GSFC says 8,600 students were eligible for the assistance program, with each scholarship of $6,500 to be distributed quarterly. That means every three months, participating students will get $1,625 deposited in July, October January and April, according to officials. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] In terms of eligibility, students had to attend one of the schools performing in the bottom quarter of academic achievement in Georgia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Channel 2 Action News previously reported that the number of schools in question was close to 500. GSFC said about 64% of the preliminarily eligible students who applied have chosen approved private schools to use the Promise Scholarship funds to go to school. Another 16% will be pursuing what the state said were home study programs, 14% will use the funds to support tutoring services and other programs, while 6% have not chosen how theyll use the funds yet. RELATED STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the students determined to be, preliminarily, eligible, about 75% were from lower-income households, which the state said meant that their household incomes did not exceed 400% of the federal poverty level. The current federal poverty level is an annual income of $32,150 for a family of four, meaning three-quarters of the households do not earn more than $128,600 as a family of four. In the metro Atlanta area, the following numbers of recipients were approved, separated by school district for the fall 2025 school year: DeKalb County: 872 recipients Newton County: 412 recipients Clayton County: 337 recipients Fulton County: 288 recipients Atlanta Public Schools: 276 recipients Rockdale County: 257 recipients Gwinnett County: 238 recipients Douglas County: 236 recipients Griffin-Spalding County: 213 recipients Cobb County: 151 recipients Houston County: 144 recipients Paulding County: 117 recipients Clarke County: 106 recipients Hall County: 81 recipients Coweta County: 59 recipients Troup County: 50 recipients Gainesville City: 43 recipients Forsyth County: 41 recipients Butts County: 40 recipients Carroll County: 35 recipients Floyd County: 30 recipients Rome City: 27 recipients Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to data from the state, more applications were submitted as well. GSFC says families can apply in September and December 2025 for spring 2026 participation. Applications for the Georgia Promise Scholarship can be made online. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] ATLANTA (AP) U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene announced Tuesday that she wont run for governor in Georgia in 2026, putting an end to her flirtation with the race in a long social media post saying she is turned off by a political good ole boy system and alleging that it was endangering Republican control of the state. Greene chose earlier not to run for Senate under pressure from Republicans who feared she would hand a second term to Democratic incumbent Jon Ossoff. But she told reporters she might instead run for governor during a June appearance at the Georgia Republican Party convention in Dalton, where she wore a Make Georgia Great Again hat and discussed state issues. Greene said she would focus on the northwest Georgia congressional seat that she has held since 2020 but left open the door for a future run. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One day, I might just without the blessing from the good ole boys club or the out-of-state consulting leeches or even without the blessing of my favorite president, Greene wrote. One day, I might just run purely out of the blessing of the wonderful people of Georgia, my family and friends, but it won't be in 2026. Gov. Brian Kemp is ineligible to run again due to term limits, but other Republicans are already in the race, including Attorney General Chris Carr and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones. Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger hasn't ruled out a run. Leading Democratic candidates for the office are state Sen. Jason Esteves and former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. Others in the field include state Rep. Derrick Jackson and Atlanta pastor Olu Brown. Republicans have held the governorship since 2002, and Greene has said repeatedly that she believes she would win. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am humbled and grateful by the massive statewide support that I have to run for governor, and if I wanted to run, we all know I would win, she wrote Tuesday. It's not even debatable. But Greene was the only winning Republican congressional candidate in Georgia to carry a smaller share of votes in her district than Trump in the 2024 election, an analysis by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution found. In her social media post, she alleged that a very established Men Only Republican firm is unfortunately overseeing the slow slide from red to blue and that self interest is blocking the GOP from addressing real issues. As a woman, none of this appeals to me. As a mother, none of this appeals to me. As a lifelong Georgian and business owner, none of this appeals to me," she said, adding that a lot women agree. First Liberty Building & Loan in Newnan on July 11, 2025 after the SEC filed its complaint. Jill Nolin/Georgia Recorder You expect to see politicians working hard to earn donations, but some Republicans in Georgia are scrambling to give them back. Brant Frost IV pictured in a screenshot from a 2023 promotional video on First Libertys Youtube channel. A growing list of politicians and groups who received money from the conservative lending firm First Liberty Building & Loan and its founder, Brant Frost IV, are sending donations back after Frost was implicated in a purported $140 million Ponzi scheme that feds say started around 2021 and scammed 300 investors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission complaint says Frost donated more than $570,000 of those investor funds to right-wing candidates and groups across multiple states, though the full number could end up being higher, according to the Georgia Secretary of States office. First Liberty targeted right-wing and Christian groups, and its now-defunct website touted efforts to fund food pantries, a crisis intervention program for middle school boys and other good works. At First Liberty Building & Loan, we believe that charitable giving is a fundamental part of our responsibility as authentic followers of Christ, Frost said on First Libertys website. By choosing us for your financial needs, you can rest assured that we prioritize giving back to our community. We support charities and organizations that align with our values, and we are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those less fortunate among us. Instead, the SEC complaint alleges that Frost transferred more than $5 million of investor funds to himself and his family. The complaint alleges Frost took in investor money for short-term loans for worthy small businesses, but instead spent it on luxury items including a Maine vacation home, jewelry and a $20,000 watch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We call these affinity frauds, where you base it on a certain group, and this is very religious Christians and Republicans, said Gregory Hays of Atlanta-based Hays Financial Consulting, who was appointed by a U.S. district court judge to receive the money from those returning the funds. So most of all the victims are either in politics or very faith-based investors, and all of them that I talked to were influenced by the charitable giving and the feel-good side of the company. Frost allegedly painted a rosy picture of the loans performance to investors, but in reality the majority of the loans that were made went into default, and Frost was using money from new investors to make interest payments to previous investors. Now, the investors are left holding the bag. Its just devastating to them, Hays said. Theres a lot of retirement money. I talked to one gentleman this morning that put $300,000 in, and he said it was all his retirement money, the $300,000. So its having some devastating impact on a lot of people. Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, whose office is investigating First Liberty alongside the SEC, issued an earlier statement calling on recipients to return political contributions from the company or from members of the Frost family. Raffensperger told media outlets he personally returned about $8,400 after learning of the allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Wednesday, Hays said recipients had returned about $60,000. By Monday afternoon, that number had increased to $130,000. The response has been intense enough for Hays to set up an automated response to emails warning that he may be slow to write back due to the heavy work load as he fields calls and emails from the investors and hundreds of politicians. There was a big hurry right after the secretary of state asked for all Georgia Republicans to return the money, and so we had calls from a lot of different politicians wanting to return the money, and that was before we even found a report of some of the donations, he said. We havent sent out demands to recover money yet from the politicians, its just people are searching their own records and returning money. Still, Hays said the process will take a long time to play out. Frost issued a statement through his attorneys earlier this month taking full responsibility and asking that everyone allow the receiver time to sort things out and do his best to repair the damage I created. Payback time State and federal donation records for First Liberty, Frost and his immediate family members show donations to conservative candidates dating back to the early 2000s, with one in 1995, but stepping up around 2021, when the illegal activity is alleged to have begun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the recipients are well-known conservative firebrands on the national stage, like Colorado Congresswoman Lauren Boebert and former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz, who each received $2,900 from First Liberty in the 2024 election cycle, according to campaign records. Alabama State Auditor Andrew Sorrell listens to Gov. Kay Ivey deliver the State of the State address in the Old House Chamber at the Alabama State Capitol on Feb. 4, 2025 in Montgomery, Alabama. Will McClelland for Alabama Reflector One of the top beneficiaries of the First Liberty money was Alabama State Auditor Andrew Sorrell, who is running for Alabama Secretary of State. Frost gave Sorrell $71,000, and Sorrells PAC made a loan to First Liberty, according to reporting from the Alabama Reflector. Members of the Frost family and First Liberty have donated more than $50,000 to the state Republican Party in Georgia since 2001 through numerous donations, some as small as $10. Georgia Republican Party Chair Josh McKoon said last week that the party had searched its records and returned $36,843.97, the amount they determined came in since the start of 2021. On behalf of our Party, I am profoundly saddened that members of our conservative movement, along with many others, were misled by false promises of safe investments. This has left countless Georgians facing uncertain futures and financial distress, McKoon said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Records show three donations from members of the Frost family to Gov. Brian Kemp in 2019, before the scheme was alleged to have begun, totaling $7,500. Kemps campaign said the governor sent $13,800 in donations to Hays office. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, who is running for governor next year, received $1,000 from a Frost family member and is sending it to Hays, a campaign spokesperson said. Several of Georgias sitting Republican members of Congress received donations, including Congressmen Brian Jack, Andrew Clyde and Rich McCormick, each of whom records show received thousands of dollars from First Liberty and the Frost family since 2021. Congressman Barry Loudermilks most recent donation of $3,600 came in 2014, records show. Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene and Congressman Rick Allen received only $80 and $50 respectively from First Liberty in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for Jacks office said in a statement he immediately returned two donations and emphasized that they made up a small portion of his support. Since announcing his campaign for Congress in March 2024, Congressman Jack has received 28,473 donations, said spokeswoman Alex Stone. Just 2 of those donations were from individuals who either identified First Liberty as their employer or are named in the Securities and Exchange Commissions complaint charging First Liberty. Jack won his seat last year, replacing retired GOP Congressman Drew Ferguson in the west Georgia district, which includes Newnan where Frost resides. First Liberty spent big in that race, also supporting at least two of the men who faced Jack in the GOP primary for that seat, records show, including more than $10,000 to former state Sen. Mike Crane and $7,500 in payments to businessman Jim Bennett. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McCormicks office also confirmed he plans to return donations, which include $11,600 from First Liberty in 2024, according to FEC records. Georgia Public Service Commission member Tim Echols, who is up for reelection this year, said he has returned two $1,000 donations to the receiver. The Frosts also spent on lesser-known candidates, in some cases funding challenges to established incumbents. State Rep. Jordan Ridley, a Woodstock Republican who is returning $3,000 he received in 2022, said the Frosts were fixtures at state Republican events. They were definitely big in fundraising for your more right leaning-candidates, he said. They were always a staple at the state party events, with tables and things like that. Definitely very active, very involved and very supportive financially. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ridley said he was referred to the Frost family by another member of the General Assembly as a potential fundraising source. Campaign finance records show that other state lawmakers who received First Liberty money include Woodstock Rep. Charlice Byrd, Buford Rep. David Clark, Locust Grove Rep. Noelle Kahaian, Columbus Rep. Carmen Rice, Trenton Sen. Colton Moore and Johns Creek Sen. Shawn Still. Ridley said hes talked with colleagues in the Legislature who received the donations and most will be ready to give back their donations without much persuasion. For anybody to run a Ponzi scheme or take somebody elses money like that is just completely unacceptable, and I feel for the victims and I hope they get back as much as possible, Ridley said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ridley said Frost may have been a prolific donator, but losing his money wont hurt Republicans in 2026 or beyond. I dont think they were that big of a donor statewide for that many people that its going to have that big of an impact, he said. For some candidates, sure, it may be a lot, but for me, I received a donation one time three years ago. For me, its not going to be an issue, and for a lot of my colleagues I know who have received money. They werent the only donor or a massive donor, they were just a piece of the pie. Georgia Recorder reporter Maya Homan and intern Amber Roldan contributed to this story. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The arrests followed an undercover operation by the Central Districts Central Unit, targeting theft, receiving stolen goods, and conspiracy. Six members of a Georgian crime gang were arrested by Central District detectives after allegedly targeting more than 100 elderly victims across Israel. The suspects are accused of stealing wallets and phones from victims and withdrawing over 1.5 million NIS from their bank accounts, according to Israel Police. The arrests followed an undercover operation by the Central Districts Central Unit, which spanned multiple districts and several weeks, targeting theft, receiving stolen goods, and conspiracy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation revealed a criminal network led by six Georgian nationals, targeting elderly victims, aged 70 to 90, across the country. More than 100 cases were linked to this gang, with complaints coming from regions including Sheflera, Gush Dan, Ashdod, and Haifa. The investigation involved cooperation with several professional organizations, including security officers from credit companies, banks, and public transportation. During the investigation, detectives uncovered a consistent criminal pattern. Members of the gang, often in their 30s, would surround elderly victims on public buses, trapping them in a "sandwich" formation to prevent escape. Buses in central Jerusalem, February 12, 2025 (credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90) While one gang member distracted the victim, another would steal their wallet and phone. The stolen items were then used to withdraw large amounts of money from the victims' bank accounts, totaling over 1.5 million NIS. Suspects arrested and evidence seized On Monday morning, after moving the investigation to its open phase, detectives from the Central and Southern Districts arrested the suspects, all of whom live in those areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the arrest, the police seized various relevant pieces of evidence. The suspects are scheduled for a court hearing, where police will request an extension of their detention. Central District Commander Maj.-Gen. Yair Hetzroni praised the Central District unit for their quick response in the case, highlighting the importance of protecting vulnerable citizens. He also emphasized the fast investigative process that led to the gangs arrest and urged the police to pursue the case to the maximum extent. A German court on Tuesday rejected the lawsuit filed by a Yezidi family, who were recently deported to Iraq, against the rejection of their asylum application. The family, which includes four children and had been living in the north-eastern town of Lychen for several years, had been deported on July 22 while an urgent appeal was being considered. The Potsdam Administrative Court had lifted the obligation to leave the country immediately pending further proceedings, but it was too late as the family was already on the plane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its latest ruling on the case, the administrative court found neither a significant individual threat such as persecution by the terrorist militia Islamic State, nor sufficient evidence of group persecution of Yezidis. The ruling, based on a 2023 lawsuit, also downgraded the family's original rejected asylum status from "manifestly unfounded" to simply "unfounded," a court spokesperson said, although the implication of that is not known. The family's lawyer now has one month to file an appeal with the Higher Administrative Court for the state of Brandenburg. The family had initially filed suit in 2023 challenging both the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees' rejection of their asylum application as "manifestly unfounded" and the threat of deportation. Their request for an emergency stay was also rejected, effectively obliging them to leave the country. Yezidis are a religious minority who faced mass atrocities by the Islamic State group. In 2023, the German parliament formally recognized the crimes committed the Islamist militants against Yezidis in 2014 as genocide. Germany has sent two military transport aircraft to Jordan to assist in airdrops of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Tuesday. At a press conference with Jordan's King Abdullah II in Berlin, Merz said the two A400M transporters were on their way to the Middle East. "This work may only make a small humanitarian contribution, but it is an important signal: We are there, we are in the region, we are helping," said Merz. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The planes are to be refuelled, filled up and equipped in Jordan before flying over Gaza, possibly as early as Wednesday, and by the weekend at the latest, Merz said. Jordan is very grateful for the German support for the air drop, said Abdullah. "Air drops are just a drop in the ocean ... but it does send a signal of pressure on Israel," the king said. The transport of relief goods into the Gaza Strip by truck must quickly be enabled in the large quantities necessary to protect the people in Gaza from starvation, he said. Merz also reiterated his position that Israel must quickly and decisively improve the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It must provide the suffering civilian population with dignified, urgently needed supplies," Merz said, adding that the federal government welcomes the first steps of the Israeli government. "But more must follow," Merz said. Israel has allowed several hundred trucks with relief goods into the Gaza Strip in recent days, after hardly any food and other aid had arrived there in the months before. In March, the government of Benjamin Netanyahu imposed a total blockade on the area. From May, it only allowed small amounts of aid deliveries through. This led to a dramatic shortage of food and other essential goods in the Gaza Strip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merz had announced the plans for the airlift following a meeting of the Security Cabinet in Berlin on Monday. Germany has been under pressure to respond to the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip amid Israel's ongoing military campaign. Severe shortages of food and water in the sealed-off Palestinian territory have prompted warnings from UN agencies of "catastrophic hunger" and the risk of imminent famine. Jordan has served as a key hub for humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza and has parachuted food into the territory in recent days. The French Foreign Office on Tuesday also confirmed it would join in the airlift, seeking to meet the most urgent needs of the civilian population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ministry said Paris would take measures to ensure the safety of the population amid the airdrops. However, it warned that in order to significantly increase aid deliveries to Gaza, Israel must immediately open its land crossings to the territory. The ministry further reiterated its call for a ceasefire in the Gaza war. Starting last Sunday, aircraft from Israel, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) dropped relief goods over the Gaza Strip. On Tuesday alone, 52 pallets on parachutes from Jordanian, Egyptian and Emirati aircraft landed there. Germany has sent two military transport aircraft to Jordan to assist in airdrops of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Tuesday. At a press conference with Jordan's King Abdullah II in Berlin, Merz said the two A400M transporters were on their way to the Middle East. "This work may only make a small humanitarian contribution, but it is an important signal: We are there, we are in the region, we are helping," said Merz. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The planes are to be refuelled, filled up and equipped in Jordan before flying over Gaza, possibly as early as Wednesday, and by the weekend at the latest, Merz said. Jordan is very grateful for the German support for the air drop, said Abdullah. "Air drops are just a drop in the ocean ... but it does send a signal of pressure on Israel," the king said. The transport of relief goods into the Gaza Strip by truck must quickly be enabled in the large quantities necessary to protect the people in Gaza from starvation, he said. Merz also reiterated his position that Israel must quickly and decisively improve the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It must provide the suffering civilian population with dignified, urgently needed supplies," Merz said, adding that the federal government welcomes the first steps of the Israeli government. "But more must follow," Merz said. Germany's airdrops slammed as 'symbolic' International organizations have criticized the airborne aid effort - saying it looks good for television cameras but is not an effective method to get food to so many desperately hungry people. "The recent decision by the Security Cabinet to establish an airlift to Gaza is nothing more than a symbolic gesture," said Julia Duchrow, Secretary General of Amnesty International in Germany, at a press conference in Berlin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The big word 'airlift' is intended to conceal the fact that the government continues to fail to do what is necessary." Duchrow continued: "Germany must finally fulfill its obligations under international law." She called for an end to arms and military equipment deliveries to Israel and a clear stance on alleged war crimes. "If Germany continues to supply weapons to a country that is committing genocide, it is complicit," Duchrow argued. More trucks getting into Gaza Israel has allowed several hundred trucks with relief goods into the Gaza Strip in recent days, after hardly any food and other aid had arrived there in the months before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March, the government of Benjamin Netanyahu imposed a total blockade on the area. From May, it only allowed small amounts of aid deliveries through. This led to a dramatic shortage of food and other essential goods in the Gaza Strip. Merz had announced the plans for the airlift following a meeting of the Security Cabinet in Berlin on Monday. Germany has been under pressure to respond to the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip amid Israel's ongoing military campaign. Severe shortages of food and water in the sealed-off Palestinian territory have prompted warnings from UN agencies of "catastrophic hunger" and the risk of imminent famine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jordan has served as a key hub for humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza and has parachuted food into the territory in recent days. France to join airlift, demands Gaza access The French Foreign Office on Tuesday also confirmed it would join in the airlift, seeking to meet the most urgent needs of the civilian population. The ministry said Paris would take measures to ensure the safety of the population amid the airdrops. However, it warned that in order to significantly increase aid deliveries to Gaza, Israel must immediately open its land crossings to the territory. The ministry further reiterated its call for a ceasefire in the Gaza war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starting last Sunday, aircraft from Israel, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) dropped relief goods over the Gaza Strip. On Tuesday alone, 52 pallets on parachutes from Jordanian, Egyptian and Emirati aircraft landed there. THE HAGUE, Netherlands Germanys government intends to set up an airlift operation to provide humanitarian aid to the civilian population in the Gaza Strip, Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on Monday. Details of the operation, which will be carried out in cooperation with Jordan and with the backing of France and the United Kingdom, are still scarce. But previous German aid-dropping operations in the territory may give a glimpse of what to expect, according to a defense spokesman in Berlin. Officials announced the new initiative following a Cabinet-level meeting, which Merz attended. He said the airlift, which was due to start without delay, would be jointly carried out by Germany and Jordan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Jordanian government said in an email to Defense News that the German announcement came in response to a request by Jordan as the dire situation in Gaza worsens. The Kingdom bordering Israel to the east will provide air support to the German aid mission, which includes logistic support at the airbase, such as fuel and maintenance, among other logistical services, the Jordan Armed Forces said. The Jordanian army is ready to provide all types of support to ensure the success of the operation, a spokesperson said. Germany will also closely coordinate the plan with leaders in Paris and London, the chancellor said in a press conference following the Cabinet meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starting in November 2023, operation Solidarity Path marked one of the largest airdrop humanitarian aid missions to date, and Germanys first foray into this type of project. At the time, 14 aircraft from nine countries dropped hundreds of tons of goods over Gaza, including ready-to-eat meals, water, flour, and baby formula. Germany was involved in the mission starting in March 2024, at first flying its C-130 Hercules transport planes and later shifting to the countrys fleet of Airbus A400M, which have a larger carrying capacity. The German military has said that the missions were flown from an airbase in Jordan. Open-source flight records identified the airport as King Abdullah II Air Base, located in the north of the country. According to the German Ministry of Defense, three weeks passed between the idea to participate and the deployment of German forces to the region, and a novel airdrop system capable of safely delivering the aid was developed during that time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dubbed the Low Cost Aerial Delivery System, tightly-packed aid palettes were equipped with paratroopers chutes that had been withdrawn from service for being 22 years old. Each of the aid drops weighed roughly 430 kilograms. The procedure was specially developed for the mission and had not yet received clearance in Germany when operations in Gaza commenced under an emergency authorization. In what one German soldier called unprecedented, 22 such parcels were loaded onto an A400M transporter, totaling over 9 tons. The capacity limits of the aircraft were fully taken advantage of, the German military boasted at the time. Constraints stem from the dimensions of the parcels and the extent of the drop zone more so than the load limits of the aircraft. The previous German airdrop mission over Gaza ended in May 2024 after racking up a total of 150 flying hours and dropping 315 tons of food. Meanwhile, Jordan has conducted 129 airdrops since the beginning of the war on Gaza, in addition to 269 joint airdrops in cooperation with other countries, the government said in response to a request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Berlins decision to launch a new airlift mission comes amid a marked shift in tone from many world leaders as the human toll and suffering in Gaza have reached what many declared to be unacceptable levels, and even Israeli human rights organizations have labeled their governments actions in the territory a genocide. Condemnation has become louder on the international stage of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus handling of the conflict and the militarys heavy-handed invasion of Gaza. Merz left the door open for punitive measures against Israel should upcoming talks fail, including stopping weapons deliveries or potentially even putting in place sanctions. In recent days, Israel has somewhat relaxed its previously near-total blockade of the Gaza Strip, allowing trucks with aid to enter and facilitating the air-dropping of some food and medicine to the population. Since Sunday, Jordan has conducted three air drops in different parts of the Strip, an armed forces spokesperson said. Israel's conduct in Gaza is "utterly wrong," a German minister said in a speech at the United Nations two-state solution conference in New York on Tuesday. Florian Hahn, minister of state at the German Foreign Office, gave one of the most moderate addresses at the conference, emphasizing that Germany "will always be unbreakably committed towards the security of the state of Israel and its people." He said that Berlin will not recognize a Palestinian state before negotiations on a two-state solution, even as German allies such as France and the United Kingdom move towards recognition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hahn said Germany would be more inclined to recognize a Palestinian state at the end of such negotiations. "This is still our position, but we do see that Israeli policies are currently pointing in the opposite direction." "This is utterly wrong and not serving Israel's long-term security interests," he added. The conference opened in New York on Monday, but expectations for progress were close to zero due to the absence of key players Israel and the United States. Hahn said the humanitarian situation in Gaza was unacceptable. "The man-made hunger crisis afflicting civilians in Gaza is especially unsettling," he stated. "All this will have irreversible consequences for generations." "Germany therefore demands immediate, safe, rapid, unhindered and sustained access by the UN and humanitarian organizations, an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of the hostages," Hahn said. German Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil on Tuesday assured fellow NATO members Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia of continued German assistance in light of Russia's expansionist ambitions, as he was in Vilnius for a two-day visit. "The Baltic states can always rely on the solidarity and support of the Federal Republic of Germany," said Klingbeil, who also serves as finance minister, after a meeting with his three counterparts in the Lithuanian capital. Klingbeil noted a recent decision by the government to exempt defence spending from Germany's strict debt rules, which would allow the country to massively increase investment in security in the long term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said those plans also include further development of a German brigade stationed in Lithuania. Lithuanian Finance Minister Rimantas Sadzius welcomed the plans which he said would strengthen security in Europe. Klingbeil intends to pay a visit to the Bundeswehr's Lithuania brigade himself, as well as to a multinational NATO battle group led by Germany in the country. German Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil on Tuesday assured fellow NATO members Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia of continued assistance from Berlin in light of Russia's expansionist ambitions, as he visited Vilnius on a two-day trip. "The Baltic states can always rely on the solidarity and support of the Federal Republic of Germany," said Klingbeil, who also serves as finance minister, after a meeting in the Lithuanian capital with his counterparts from the three countries. Klingbeil noted Germany's move to exempt defence spending from strict debt rules, which will allow the government to massively increase investment in security in the long term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vice chancellor said the government's budgets for the next two years show that Germany is ready to make its contribution to NATO's expanded deterrence and defence capabilities. Lithuanian Finance Minister Rimantas Sadzius welcomed the plans, which he said would strengthen security in Europe. His Estonian counterpart, Jurgen Ligi, said the Baltic countries are grateful that Germany has dropped its "naivety" over the threat from Russia. Klingbeil visits German brigade Klingbeil visited the staff of a German brigade due to be stationed in Lithuania. The 45th Armoured Brigade is set to be operational by 2027 with up to 5,000 troops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Klingbeil was received by commander Christoph Huber, who informed the minister about the gradual build-up of the unit and the soldiers' warm welcome from the Lithuanian population. "We are more than welcome here," said the brigadier general, whose name is mentioned in a new Lithuanian schoolbook. Klingbeil is the latest of a series of German leaders to visit Lithuania - which borders Russia's exclave of Kaliningrad and Belarus - in recent months. Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Defence Minister Boris Pistorius attended a ceremony to mark the brigade's official entry into service in May, while President Frank-Walter Steinmeier also visited Vilnius earlier this month. Opposing views on EU budget plans While the ministers were keen to stress their unity, an apparent point of concern is the European Union's budget plans for 2028-2034, which were presented earlier this month in Brussels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Estonia's Ligi said the Baltic states support the European Commission's plans to increase the budget, with additional spending on security. However, Klingbeil said the proposals are "clearly too high in terms of volume" - especially at a time when Germany is discussing savings. The finance minister warned that Berlin will have to cut spending from 2027 to balance the budget, in what he said could be an "an enormous challenge for the government." Tens of thousands of heavy metal fans flocked to northern Germany on Tuesday ahead of the annual Wacken Open Air music festival, despite rain showers threatening to bring a repeat of last year's muddy chaos. Some 33,000 of the expected 85,000 attendees had already arrived at their campsites near the town of Wacken by the late afternoon, police said. "The campsites are still accessible at present," a police spokesman told dpa in the afternoon. "We have no problems on the access routes." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, the festival was disrupted by heavy rain, which turned the grounds and access roads into a mud pit, forcing organizers to halt admissions. This year, organizers established an arrival plan with different access routes, which the spokesman said was working well. Despite the smoother beginning, a 59-year-old man was taken to hospital following a medical emergency. There were also reports of two cases of bodily harm and one case of property damage on the festival grounds during the night. Wacken Open Air, which takes place in a village of just 2,000 inhabitants, is considered one of the biggest heavy metal festivals in the world. This year, the festival runs from Wednesday, July 30 to Saturday, August 2. Police officers stand on the muddy grounds at the Wacken Open Air (WOA) heavy metal festival. Marcus Brandt/dpa An attorney for Jeffrey Epsteins former accomplice and girlfriend told Republicans in Congress she would be happy to testify if President Donald Trump will let her out of prison. In response to a subpoena, Ghislaine Maxwells attorney said she would only answer lawmakers questions if she gets them in writing first and is also granted immunity from further prosecution demands lawmakers would likely refuse. Of course, in the alternative, if Ms. Maxwell were to receive clemency, she would be willing and eager to testify openly and honestly, in public, before Congress in Washington, D.C. Maxwells attorney, David Markus, said in his letter to House Oversight Committee chair James Comer (R-Ky.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for Comer immediately rejected Maxwells demand for immunity: The Oversight Committee will respond to Ms. Maxwells attorney soon, but it will not consider granting congressional immunity for her testimony. Top officials from the Justice Department already interviewed Maxwell at length last week as part of President Trumps efforts to tamp down the right-wing furor over his administrations refusal this month to release the governments files on the Epstein case. Trump was friends with Epstein and his name reportedly pops up repeatedly in the files. The refusal to release the documents followed statements by top Justice Department officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi, that the government would release new information about the Epstein case. Right-wing commentators have called the refusal a betrayal, and some Republicans in Congress have demanded the government cough up the material. Asked about Maxwells request for clemency, the White House referred HuffPost to the Justice Department, which did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Either a full pardon or a commutation of her sentence would set her free. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said Monday he could give Maxwell a pardon but hadnt been asked to do so. Well, Im allowed to give her a pardon, but I nobodys approached me with it. Nobodys asked me about it. Its in the news about that, that aspect of it, but right now, it would be inappropriate to talk about it, Trump said. Maxwell was sentenced to 20 years prison in 2022 for conspiring with Epstein to groom and sexually exploit multiple girls as young as 14 over the course of a decade starting in 1994. The Justice Department has said Epstein had more than a thousand victims. Epstein died in jail in 2019 after being arrested a second time for crimes related to his serial sex trafficking enterprise. He was rearrested after prosecutors struck a favorable non-prosecution agreement with his attorneys in 2007 following his initial arrest. The Justice Department said in 2020 the agreement reflected poor judgment. Maxwells attorney said she didnt get a fair trial and that she should have been covered by the governments original non-prosecution agreement with Epstein, adding that she became a convenient scapegoat after Epsteins death. Maxwell has appealed her case to the Supreme Court. Ghislaine Maxwell has filed an appeal with the Supreme Court in the hope of overturning her conviction in the case involving the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Maxwell argues that she was unlawfully prosecuted for sex trafficking minors alongside Epstein. She was convicted of sexually abusing and grooming underage girls and young women over for years with her on-and-off boyfriend Epstein and sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2021. Just last week, she met over the course of two days with a senior Justice Department official and former personal lawyer to President Donald Trump who is tasked with reviewing the Epstein case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump and his administration have faced criticism from both sides of the political aisle over the last few weeks after they backtracked on promises to release all files in connection with Epstein. Activists within the MAGA movement believe that Maxwell could be a vital source of new information regarding allegations that are part of conspiracy theories involving Epstein, such as his being the head of an elite pedophile ring. Maxwells appeal is connected to Epsteins 2007 plea agreement (AP/Metropolitan Detention Center) Maxwells appeal is connected to a controversial plea agreement from 2007 that Epstein negotiated with the Southern District of Floridas U.S. Attorneys Office. The U.S. "agrees that it will not institute any criminal charges against any potential co-conspirators of Epstein, including but not limited to" four other suspects, the plea agreement stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Maxwell wasnt listed, her attorneys argue that she didnt have to be, Axios noted. Her lawyers, husband and wife Mona and David Oscar Markus, say that she doesnt have to be included on the list to be protected since it states the protection is not limited to the four suspects. Markus similarly claims that the words in the agreement, which promise immunity from the United States, mean that Maxwell cannot be prosecuted anywhere in the U.S. Mona Markus wrote in the petition that The government's argument, across the board, is essentially an appeal to what it wishes the agreement had said, rather than what it actually says. Meanwhile, the Justice Department has argued that then-Florida U.S. Attorney Alex Acosta didnt have the authority over other districts when striking the deal. Maxwell was tried and convicted in the Southern District of New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal appeals courts have come down on different sides of the issue of whether a plea deal negotiated by one U.S. Attorneys Office applies to the full Department of Justice. While the department noted that split in its brief, it urged the Supreme Court to reject the appeal. "The government was not even aware of [Maxwell's] role in Epstein's scheme at that time," said the department, adding that Maxwell is "at most, an incidental third-party beneficiary of the agreement." Epsteins 2007 plea deal was rare and has prompted waves of conspiracy theories and criticism regarding how those with connections can evade the full force of the law. He pleaded guilty in 2008 to state prostitution charges and was indicted on federal sex trafficking charges in July 2019 but died by suicide in prison a month later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Acosta, who was appointed as Trumps labor secretary during his first term, resigned amid the scrutiny of the deal at the time in 2019 following Epsteins arrest. The Department of Justices Office of Professional Responsibility criticised Acosta in a 2020 internal report, saying that he had exercised poor judgment when striking the non-prosecution agreement. Maxwell is appealing to the Supreme Court as well as to Trump. The president said on Friday that he hasnt considered a pardon for the former British socialite, but also hasnt ruled it out. Also on Friday, David Markus told reporters that Maxwell "was asked maybe about 100 different people" during two days of interviews with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, a former Trump personal lawyer. Maxwell answered every single question, said Markus. David Oscar Markus and his wife are representing Maxwell (AP) "We haven't spoken to the president or anybody about a pardon just yet," he added. "The president this morning said he had the power to do so. We hope he exercises that power in the right and just way." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July 2020, Maxwell was arrested and charged by the federal government with enticement of minors and the sex trafficking of underage girls, having acted as Epsteins recruiter. Considered a flight risk, she was denied bail. The judge noted that her finances were unclear, she was skilled at living in hiding, and that France doesnt extradite its citizens. Maxwell is a French, British, and American citizen. Convicted on five out of six counts, including sex trafficking a minor, shes serving a 20-year sentence. She also faced a second criminal trial on two charges of lying under oath regarding Epstein abusing minors. Ghislaine Maxwells lawyers sent a letter Tuesday to House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., which doubles as an unofficial pardon application, of sorts, to President Donald Trump. The letter formally responds to the committees subpoena to depose Maxwell at the Tallahassee, Florida, prison where she is serving a 20-year sentence for conspiring with Jeffrey Epstein to sexually abuse minors. Maxwells lawyers told the committee in the letter that, for her to testify to Congress, she would need immunity and to put off any testimony until after her pending Supreme Court petition and forthcoming habeas corpus petition for release are resolved. They also asked for any questions in advance so she can prepare. Otherwise, they said in the letter, Ms. Maxwell will have no choice but to invoke her Fifth Amendment rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Notably, they went on to write, Of course, in the alternative, if Ms. Maxwell were to receive clemency, she would be willingand eagerto testify openly and honestly, in public, before Congress in Washington, D.C. She welcomes the opportunity to share the truth and to dispel the many misconceptions and misstatements that have plagued this case from the beginning. From there, her lawyers listed several claimed injustices of her case and confinement. A committee spokesperson already told NBC News on Tuesday that it wouldnt be granting Maxwell immunity for testimony. That rejection puts a finer point on what Maxwell would obviously ideally prefer: a pardon. Trump hasnt ruled out giving one to the woman who, the Justice Department just recounted in opposing her pending Supreme Court petition, along with Epstein would identify vulnerable girls living under difficult circumstances; isolate them from their friends and families, gaining their trust by giving them gifts and pretending to be their friends; normalize the discussion of sexual topics and sexual touching with the girls; and then transition[] to sexual abuse, often through the pretext of [a girl] giving Epstein a massage (brackets in the DOJ filing). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maxwells letter follows her highly unusual meetings last week with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, meetings whose uncertain details leave open the question of whether the administration will seek any formal cooperation or other legal arrangement with Maxwell. Blanche is one of several lawyers who represented Trump personally before his latest election and who now works in the DOJ during Trumps second term. While the details of Maxwells dealings with DOJ last week arent public, her lawyers who wrote Tuesdays letter are well familiar with them. Whatever their full legal strategy is at this point, it explicitly includes seeking clemency in a letter alleging an unfair prosecution from a president who has complained of unfair treatment in his own several criminal cases. Subscribe to the Deadline: Legal Newsletter for expert analysis on the top legal stories of the week, including updates from the Supreme Court and developments in the Trump administrations legal cases. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Ghislaine Maxwell, convicted co-conspirator of notorious pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, explicitly appealed to President Donald Trump for clemency on Tuesday. In a response to the House Oversight Committees subpoena to force Maxwell to testify on August 11, her attorney David Oscar Markus enumerated certain conditions for her deposition. Or, he wrote, Maxwell could be given clemency. Markuss letter, posted to X, says, if Ms. Maxwell were to receive clemency, she would be willingand eagerto testify openly and honestly, in public, before Congress in Washington, D.C. Markus said Maxwell would welcome the opportunity to share the truth and address purported misconceptions and misstatements that have plagued this case from the beginning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In other words, Maxwell has offered to give our TV president the televised spectacle of his dreams, testifying in public if he simply waves away at least part of her sentence. The suggestion comes as Trumps allies increasingly regard Maxwell, currently serving a 20-year sentence for helping Epstein sexually abuse underage girls, as a potential means for the administration to escape the persistent scandal surrounding his past ties to, and lack of transparency about, Epsteins case. Trump, for his part, has conspicuously avoided answering whether hes considered granting Maxwell a pardon or clemency, while asserting that hes allowed to do so. Meanwhile, Trumps deputy attorney general last week met behind closed doors with Maxwell twice, leading many critics and Democratic lawmakers to observe the plain potential for corruption in such sit-downs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Markuss letter mentioned clemency as an alternative to a set of three conditions he asked the Oversight Committee to grant, lest Maxwell invoke the Fifth Amendment and decline to testify: first, granting her immunity; second, sharing its questions in advance; and third, having her appear only after the resolution of two pending attempts at post-conviction relief (these being a Supreme Court petition and a forthcoming writ of habeas corpus). Hovering over all of this are obvious concerns about Maxwells credibility. While House Speaker Mike Johnson said he supported the committees decision to subpoena, he also, of all people, sensibly observed: Could she be counted on to tell the truth? Is she a credible witness? I mean, this is a person whos been sentenced to many, many years in prison for terrible, unspeakable, conspiratorial acts, and acts against innocent young people. I mean, can we trust what shes going to say? The former accomplice and girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein is looking to delay her deposition before a House Oversight Committee, Fox News has learned. Ghislaine Maxwell was slapped with a subpoena to testify in front of Congress last week, as lawmakers are looking to pull back the curtain on the scope of Epsteins sex crimes. However, she is now attempting to delay her Aug. 11 deposition. Ghislaine Maxwell Asks Supreme Court To Overturn Conviction Citing Epstein Immunity Deal Ghislaine Maxwell was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for her role in procuring underage girls for Jeffrey Epstein's sexual abuse. In a letter addressed to Chairman James Comer, Maxwells attorneys laid out three conditions hinging on their client agreeing to testify in front of Congress, which she is not compelled to agree to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter asks Comer to grant Maxwell formal immunity prior to her interview with the committee, pointing to both the legal and security risks that stem from her disclosing new details regarding Epstein. Read On The Fox News App "The potential for leaks from such a setting creates real security risks and undermines the integrity of the process," the letter said. Epstein Accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell Could Be Eyeing Three Outcomes As She Meets With Doj Again: Expert A deposition that British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell gave in 2016 relating to her dealings with the late Jeffrey Epstein is pictured in the Manhattan borough of New York City on Oct. 22, 2020. Additionally, Maxwells legal team is asking Comer to provide them with the questions the committee intends to ask in advance, insisting the "process cannot become a game of cat-and-mouse." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the committee is refusing Maxwell's bid for immunity. "The Oversight Committee will respond to Ms. Maxwells attorney soon, but it will not consider granting congressional immunity for her testimony," a spokesperson said in a statement. The third request outlined in the letter asks Comer to wait to schedule any Congressional deposition until after the U.S. Supreme Court rules on Maxwells latest bid for an appeal and her habeas petition is resolved. Jeffrey Epstein Accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell To See How Feds Meeting Plays Out Amid Subpoena: Brother Ghislaine Maxwell jogs around the track at FCI Tallahassee, Tallahassee, Florida, on Thursday, July 10, 2025. Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking in connection with Jeffrey Epstein. On Monday, Maxwells legal team submitted a filing asking the Supreme Court to hear her appeal over her 2021 sex trafficking conviction. Her attorneys argue the federal government "has an obligation to honor" a 2007 non-prosecution agreement initially made by Epstein that they believe should have also shielded Maxwell from criminal charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Even more remarkably, the government advances an interpretation of its non-prosecution agreement that flips its plain meaning on its head," the brief said. "Promising not to prosecute somehow meant preserving the right to prosecute. That is not contract interpretation; it is alchemy." Federal prosecutors had previously determined Epsteins agreement was only valid in Florida, therefore opening the door for both Epstein and Maxwell to face charges in New York. However, Maxwells defense team insists the agreed-upon terms did not include any geographical restrictions. Ghislaine Maxwell Subpoenaed By House Oversight Committee Amid Epstein Files Push Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is not geographically limited to the Southern District of Florida, it is not conditioned on the co-conspirators being known by the government at the time, it does not depend on what any particular government attorney may have had in his or her head about who might be a co-conspirator, and it contains no other caveat or exception. This should be the end of the discussion," the brief said. The request for a later date comes after Maxwell sat down for nearly two days of interviews with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche at a Florida courthouse last week. Maxwell is currently being held in a federal prison in Tallahassee after being sentenced to 20 years behind bars for her role in procuring young girls for Epstein to sexually abuse. Maxwell's attorneys and the House Oversight Committee did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. Original article source: Ghislaine Maxwell threatens to dodge Epstein questions unless demands are met WASHINGTON Ghislaine Maxwells attorney Monday renewed his request that the Supreme Court overturn her 2021 conviction in New York for recruiting and grooming multiple teenage girls for Jeffrey Epstein to sexually abuse for over a decade. In a new filing, Maxwell's lawyer, David Oscar Markus, repeated arguments he made in previous filings that a non-prosecution agreement Epstein made with federal prosecutors in Florida should apply to Maxwells case in New York and any other part of the United States. The filing includes no new information about Maxwells two days of meetings last week with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell at an event in New York in 1995. (Patrick McMullan via Getty Images) Maxwell's lawyer asked the Supreme Court to take up her case in April. Markus argues that the Supreme Court should hear the case because there is disagreement in the federal courts over whether a non-prosecution agreement applies only to the U.S. Attorneys office that signs it or to federal prosecutors nationwide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justice Department lawyers responded earlier this month in a filing of their own and urged the court not to consider the case. Monday's filing from Markus contained his response to the government's arguments. The Supreme Court, which is on its summer recess, is unlikely to act on Maxwells case for months. Federal prosecutors have argued that the agreement applies only to southern Florida, where it was made. The federal judge who oversaw Maxwells 2021 trial in New York, Judge Alison Nathan, agreed. Nathan wrote in a ruling that a Justice Department review found that no special promises were made to Maxwell that she would not be prosecuted federally outside South Florida. Markus argued that Maxwell did receive those assurances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This case is about what the government promised, not what Epstein did, he wrote. Plea agreements are supposed to be strictly construed against the government, yet here the government isnt even asking for the benefit of the doubt; it is asking for a blank check to rewrite its own promise after the fact. Nathan also noted in her 2021 ruling that the Florida non-prosecution agreement covered Epsteins criminal activity from 2001 to 2007. Maxwell was prosecuted in New York for her conduct from 1994 to 1997, some four years before the period covered by the Southern District of Florida investigation. Markus said in a statement that he was appealing to both the Supreme Court and President Donald Trump for help with Maxwell's case. The Supreme Court could overturn Maxwell's conviction in New York and order a new federal trial. Trump could commute Maxwell's sentence or pardon her. "President Trump built his legacy in part on the power of a deal," Markus said. "And surely he would agree that when the United States gives its word, it must stand by it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are appealing not only to the Supreme Court," he added, "but to the President himself to recognize how profoundly unjust it is to scapegoat Ghislaine Maxwell for Epsteins crimes, especially when the government promised she would not be prosecuted. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) Yet another giant troll sculpture is in the works in Rhode Island this time in North Kingstown. The town announced Monday that Danish artist Thomas Dambo will be bringing one of his famous trolls to Ryan Park. The exact location is being kept under wraps until the sculpture is complete, which is expected to be in late August. RELATED: Giant trolls have a message for humans about protecting the planet Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This comes just days after the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council announced that Dambo will be building another giant troll sculpture somewhere in East Providence. There are already two troll sculptures in Rhode Island named Erik Rock and Greta Granit, both of which are located at Ninigret Park in Charlestown. Those sculptures marked the beginning of the so-called Rhode Island troll trail. The North Kingstown troll is one of two in the works thanks to a grant secured by the South County Tourism Council. The other troll sculpture will be built and installed somewhere in Richmond. MORE: RIs third giant troll sculpture will be built in East Providence Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The three pending sculptures will bring the states total to five trolls. Its unclear whether the trail will ever expand beyond those five sculptures. Though the grant will be covering the bulk of the overall cost, North Kingstown has also launched a sponsorship campaign to ensure the towns first public art installation is fully funded. So far, McKays Front Porch, Heritage Kitchens and Rhode Island Energy have pledged to sponsor the troll. The town is also seeking volunteers to assist Dambo throughout the construction process. Those interesting in signing up for a work session can do so online. The four-hour work sessions are scheduled for various days and times between Aug. 13-24. EXPLORE: Thomas Dambos Troll Map Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. GIRARD, Ohio (WKBN) Girard City Council decided Monday evening to put a moratorium on any additional marijuana dispensaries. One will be allowed, and thats all for now. Mayor Mark Zuppo vetoed the moratorium, but the council overrode the veto by a 5-2 vote. Zuppo said Girards lone dispensary will be opening in a couple of weeks. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) Following a string of random attacks carried out by girls in San Francisco, police officers arrested a group of juvenile females for another unprovoked assault over the weekend, San Francisco Interim Police Chief Paul Yep said. One of the girls was only 11 years old, according to police. Yep said, I am extremely disappointed in the actions of these individuals. Violent attacks like these will never be tolerated, and the SFPD will use all resources available to ensure our city is safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The San Francisco Police Department is investigating five similar unprovoked attacks that began in July. Each attack was inflicted by a group of girls with similar suspect descriptions, police said. The most recent attack happened in broad daylight on Saturday afternoon along 4th Street. Two victims were assaulted by several juvenile females, SFPD wrote. Bystanders stepped in to stop the attack, which caused the suspects to flee the scene on foot. San Francisco restaurant vandalized, urges city action for safety SFPD officers from the Real Time Investigation Center found surveillance video and disseminated images of the suspects to officers on patrol. Undercover officers spotted several of the girls at Stonestown Galleria and detained the group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the group was questioned, officers arrested a 13-year-old girl and a 14-year-old girl on suspicion of assault likely to produce great bodily injury. An 11-year-old girl was detained and admonished, because of her youthful age, SFPD said. All of the girls were released to their parents. The investigation remains open and active. Anyone with information is asked to contact the SFPD at 415-575-4444. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. As Texas school districts prepare to welcome students for the new school year next month, their boards will need to make some policy decisions regarding recently passed legislation. At the July 21 Greenville ISD Board of Trustees meeting, assistant superintendent of operations William Anderson and assistant superintendent of technology Shannon Fulp explained that the board will need to update the districts policies on student use of personal electronic devices, library materials and non-enrolled students access to extracurricular activities to reflect these changes. Not surprisingly, the new law that has received the most attention is Texas House Bill 1481, which bans the use of students personal cellphones and other smart devices such as tablets and smartwatches from the classroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the law set to go into effect this coming school year, Texas school districts will need to clearly outline how it will be enforced/what disciplinary measures will be taken when students use their devices in class. So far, many districts who have adopted such a policy have taken a not seen, not heard, not taken approach, in which students are not searched for cellphones without cause or required to check them in at the beginning of the school day. Many of those districts also allow students to take their cellphones out after school. The other two laws give school districts more options within certain parameters. Texas Senate Bill 13 deals with school and teachers personal libraries. It requires school boards to either review library materials themselves or create a community library advisory council to vet the materials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If a district chooses to go the library advisory council route, the law states that a majority of the councils voting members have to be parents with students in the district and that board members/district employees can be on the board but cannot vote. The other new law that school districts will be revising policy around in the coming weeks is Texas Senate Bill 401. By default, it requires public school districts to allow non-enrolled students (who would mostly be homeschooled or enrolled in private schools) to participate in UIL-sanctioned extra curricular activities and receive the same services and equipment that enrolled students would get. These services include providing transportation (if needed) for the non-enrolled students, Anderson advised at GISDs meeting last week. However, the bill does give districts the authority to bar non-enrolled students from participating in its UIL groups, as long as they officially adopt a policy specifically opting out of the practice before the school year starts. In the case of Greenville ISD, so far no board decisions have been made regarding these pieces of legislation, but they plan to vote on the changes before the first day of school on Aug. 13. If a person ever wanted to make the case that international law is toothless, they could hardly find a better supporting argument than the situation in Gaza. Since Hamas killed nearly 1,200 Israelis and took hundreds of others hostage on Oct. 7, 2023, Israel has engaged in an all-out military assault on the territory, killing tens of thousands of Gazans, withholding food and other humanitarian aid, and razing much of Gazas physical infrastructure, including civilian objects such as hospitals and schools. In that time, Israel has been able to act with a level of indifference to civilian life and impunity with regard to human rights violations rarely afforded to stateseven major powers. Israels relative invulnerability to international opprobrium has been largely due to two key factors. Politically, the U.S.its great power patronhas remained willing to provide untrammeled support, in part for domestic political reasons but also to protect Washingtons regional interests. And rhetorically, both the memory of the Holocaust and Israels existential regional threat horizon allows its leaders to assert righteous victimhood in ways that whitewash their own atrocities, which Israel is careful to justify as being just within the bounds of the actual law. This resonates just enough with just enough audiences just enough of the time to hold domestic opposition among Israels partners in check and prevent the institutional consensus at the United Nations required for a more robust global response. All of this helps explain why it has been difficult for the world to respond appropriately or do more than watch in horror while an entire population is being slowly starved to death on live television. Until now, international responses have been largely symbolic. But in recent weeks, those symbolic efforts have been on the uptick. Last week, France announced that it will become the first G7 country to recognize Palestine, with the official ceremony scheduled to take place at the U.N. General Assembly. And two weeks ago, 30 countries from the Global South calling themselves The Hague Group met in Bogota, Colombia, to organize a sanctions regime against Israel and plan a massive campaign to attract adherents in the run-up to the General Assembly. Those efforts have also been buoyed by a recent flood of media attention and calls to action from moral leaders to do something. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This all may be having some effect. This past week, the surge of moral outrage caused the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to at least pay lip service toward providing aid to civilians in Gaza: Airdrops of supplies resumed in parts of the territory, and World Central Kitchena humanitarian organization providing food to Gazanswas able to resume cooking meals again after being forced to shut down earlier in the week. To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter. To be sure, Israels qualified policy shifts are, as aid groups insist, grossly insufficient. Airdrops are an inefficient way to deliver food and present a danger to civilians on the ground. Instead, aid groups want Israel to stop impeding ground convoys from entering Gaza, stop ordering troops to shoot civilians in cold blood at aid distribution points, and return coordination of the relief efforts to the U.N. Office of Humanitarian Affairs. But Israels decision to at least pay lip service to humanitarian norms by loosening restrictions on food aid suggests that it now feels more vulnerable to political pressure than it has seemed to in recent months, to the point that it must bolster the appearance of compliance with international standards. Even Israel, it seems, can be sensitive to the power of international law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why the sudden difference? The answer gives clues for how to hold states more accountable under international law for their actions in armed conflicts, even those least vulnerable to social sanction. One shift has been that an increasing number of global authorities are referring to the events in Gaza specifically as a genocide. Earlier this month, a U.N. Human Rights Council report found that not only Israel and its partner states but also numerous private firms are complicit in what it refers to as genocide. Renowned Israeli genocide scholar Omar Bartov published a widely circulated essay arguing that what is happening in Gaza is indeed a genocide, a position increasingly taken by genocide scholars, including those from Israel. This week former U.N. aid chief Martin Griffiths referred to Israels actions as genocide. Even Israeli rights groups are using the term. A more important factor in ramping up pressure on Israel may be the increasing willingness of Israeli military officials to speak out in ways that highlight the systematic nature of the atrocities committed in Gaza. But as political scientist Steven Saideman writes, the genocide label, while accurate, is politically complicated when it comes to applying it in Gaza. Israel claims it is actually fighting a genocidal force in Hamas, which has never explicitly accepted Israels right to exist. In the United States, university professors are feeling pressure from administrators to avoid teaching honestly about Israels actions, lest they run afoul of new guidelines on countering antisemitism that the administration of President Donald Trump is seeking to impose on federally funded schools for what many see as domestic political purposes. And many pundits, like New York Times op-ed columnist Bret Stephens, argue that the fact that Israel has only killed tens of thousands of Gazans, rather than hundreds of thousands, proves a lack of genocidal intent. In light of all this, it is possible that debates over the genocide label have become a distraction that empowers Israel by further dividing the opposition to its actions in Gaza. Whats more, there is little evidence that the genocide label, when it is used, actually galvanizes the world to act. Governments have sometimes withheld use of the term for fear they would be required under international law to intervene, as the administration of then-U.S. President Bill Clinton infamously did in 1994 while the genocide in Rwanda unfolded. But the converse has also occurred, as in 2007, when the administration of then-President George W. Bush acknowledged that a genocide was taking place in Darfur but did little to stop it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nor should the genocide threshold be determinative. After all, crimes against humanityincluding widespread, systematic attacks on civiliansare plenty bad enough. Whether or not the legal threshold for genocide has been crossed, the mass starvation campaign in Gaza certainly rises to that level, as starvation is a weapon that targets children the hardest and quickest, underscoring its civilian-focused nature. In truth, a more important factor in ramping up pressure on Netanyahus government than the global rhetoric around genocide and the outrage from the international community may be the increasing willingness of Israeli military officials themselves to speak out in ways that counter the governments narratives and highlight the systematic nature of the atrocities committed by Israeli forces in Gaza. For example, it was internal concerns about starvation shared by three Israeli defense officials with journalists in May that prompted Israel to end a total food embargo it had put in place since March. It was Israeli troops who broke the story to the press about being ordered to routinely shoot Gazan civilians attempting to access food at distribution sites. And it was Israeli military officials who reported to the press this week that there has never been any proof that Hamas routinely steals food shipments and profits off of humanitarian aid, as the Netanyahu government has long maintained as justification for limiting aid deliveries. These officers and the Israeli military as an institution are right to be concerned about participating in a policy of mass starvation for moral reasons, but also for pragmatic ones. Members of the military are uniquely at risk of prosecution not just for genocide but for war crimes and crimes against humanity under the doctrine of individual criminal responsibility. Since the Nuremberg war crimes trials following World War II, the legal defense of following orders cannot be used for these crimes. Even if the Israeli government is not spooked by the increasing global outcry over the Israeli militarys actions in Gaza, it is reasonable that Israeli military officials would be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And this is even more likely to have an effect on Israeli civilian policymakerssomething we may already be seeingthan any outcry from the global community about genocide, for two reasons. First, political science research shows that human rights shaming is often the most robust when the shaming comes from diasporas or domestic critics rather than the international community. Further research found that advocacy by actors who are least likely to be critics can also have an outsized impact: In times of war, military officers who openly speak out capture peoples attention more than human rights NGOs. Second, military officers and personnel are important moral messengers in societies more generally. Active-duty and former military personnel are often uniquely able to speak to right-wing constituencies in particular, which may have created some of the political space now being seized by other Israelis to oppose their governments policies in Gaza. The increasing refusal of Israelis to serve in the military and the resignation of 41 officers in June in protest of illegal orders is also a telling form of resistance, not just symbolically but practically: Without the militarys acquiescence, a civilian government simply cannot carry out atrocities. Far from showing the weakness of international law, this is one of the mechanisms by which indictments of political leaders by international criminal tribunalssuch as the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallantare said to work: by clarifying international standards and creating the concern among generals, lower-level military officials and even troops that they too could be caught up in a reckoning. Regardless, the real test now will be actual action. Words, testimonies and refusal to participate can make some difference at the margins. But concrete actions by the international community will matter more. Will other nations, including France or other G7 members, join the Hague Group and actually stop trading with Israel in the runup to the U.N. General Assembly this year? Will political will emerge for a diplomatic solution and a U.N. peacekeeping presence in Gaza? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And to spur these efforts, will more of the Israeli military begin conscientiously disobeying orders as well as refusing service? Would members of the U.S. military refuse to follow orders if asked to assist in a displacement campaign against Palestinians such as that threatened by Trump? If so, could this lead Trump to take a harder hand with Israel? Ultimately, the lives of the Palestinians currently being starved to death by Israel in Gaza may depend on the answers to these questions. Charli Carpenter is a professor of political science and legal studies at University of Massachusetts-Amherst, specializing in human security and international law. She tweets at @charlicarpenter. The post Global Outrage Isnt the Only Thing Driving Israels Shift on Aid to Gaza appeared first on World Politics Review. Theme park days are already a challenge during peak season nothing like a heat index of 115 degrees to make them even worse. Almost 200 million Americans, including those in Florida, have been sweltering under extreme heat warnings, watches or advisories over the last few days due to a high-pressure "dome" trapping heat. For those heading to Florida's theme parks in the upcoming days, here's how you can survive the brutal summer weather. What is the busiest time for Florida theme parks? Honestly, when are the theme parks not busy? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the peak season for Florida's theme parks is considered March through August, which includes spring break, summer vacation, and holidays. Who is most at risk for extreme heat? According to a report from the nonprofit Florida Policy Institute, Florida has the highest number of heat-related illnesses in the nation. The Sunshine State saw 31,011 emergency room visits and hospitalizations between 2018 and 2022, based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People more at risk from extreme heat include: Pregnant people People with heart or lung conditions Young children, especially those under age 4 Older adults, especially those over 65 People with Alzheimer's or other dementia-related illnesses People who are overweight People on certain medications Athletes People who work outside, especially roofers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And don't forget any furry friends, who don't like the heat any more than you do and have fewer ways to cool off. How do I keep cool at theme parks? Universal Orlando's newest theme park Epic Universe officially opened on Thursday, May 22, 2025. Here's a look at some of the rides houses inside the new park. Don't let the heat and humidity keep you away from the fun of Florida theme parks. Here are eight tips about staying cool, even in Florida temperatures: Check the weather before you leave for theme parks Before you even head out for your theme park trip, look at weather reports for the entire day to prepare appropriately. Is it going to rain later? Bring an umbrella. Is the temperature going to rise significantly? Pack extra water bottles and wear the proper clothing. Be aware that the weather can easily change throughout the day and differ slightly from reports in the early morning. Pack accordingly for your trip. Be aware of extreme heat warnings An extreme heat warning is issued when dangerous heat is happening or is about to happen. Residents are advised to take action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "An extreme heat warning is issued when extremely dangerous heat conditions are expected or occurring," the National Weather Service said. There are slight differences around the state on when extreme heat warnings are issued, with Central Florida issuing an alert if: East (Orlando) : A heat index of 113 degrees is expected in the next 24 hours. West (Tampa): The heat index is expected to reach 113 degrees, or the air temperature is forecast to reach 105 degrees, within the next 24 hours. See latest weather alerts, warnings issued in Florida Dress in light, comfy clothing Stick to light colors and materials. As much as you might look good in dark clothing, you'll regret it when it absorbs the intense power of the Florida sun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You should also dress light, avoiding long sleeves and pants if possible. For bonus points, bring a hat to protect your face and scalp from the sun. Wear sunscreen, reapply throughout the day At least two people die of skin cancer in the United States every hour, and one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they turn 70, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation. Don't let that be you. Avoid getting sunburns by applying sunscreen before heading to the parks, and make sure to reapply throughout the day. Avoid going to theme parks during the middle part of the day Sunset at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Avoid visiting the theme park during the middle of the day, when temperatures peak and the parks are typically at their busiest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If possible, try getting to the park early, then take a midday break and come back in the evening when temperatures drop again. Stay indoors and seek an air-conditioned building, if possible While most sections of theme parks are outdoors, try to spend as much time indoors and in a/c as possible. This can mean exploring the stores a little more, enjoying a treat at a cafe or attending some of the shows. Stay hydrated as much as possible As we approach the hottest months of the year, make a plan for sports and other extracurricular activities that includes monitoring for signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. This may seem obvious, but drinking water is crucial to staying cool in Florida. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink water. If you don't want to pay for bottled water constantly, utilize the theme park water fountains to fill up a reusable water bottle. Most quick-service locations and kiosks will also offer free cups of water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Avoid alcoholic, sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can be dehydrating, as tempting as they might be. Take longer and more frequent breaks When you do find yourself getting overheated and overwhelmed, listen to your body. Take breaks whenever you need to. Map out the best places to take a break at the parks. Florida theme parks, such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld, have maps of their parks posted online. You can use these maps to figure out which areas are shaded or air-conditioned. Recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke See the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The initial signs of heat-related illness are muscle cramps and thirst, according to the National Weather Service. This can progress to heat exhaustion, which has symptoms that look like: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cool, moist skin with goose bumps when in the heat Heavy sweating Faintness Dizziness Fatigue Weak, rapid pulse Low blood pressure upon standing Muscle cramps "If youre experiencing heat exhaustion for an extended period of time, it can lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke can come on quickly if its very hot or youre overexerting yourself," Healthline said. According to the CDC, heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. The symptoms of heat stroke include: Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech Loss of consciousness (coma) Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating Seizures Very high body temperature Seek out first aid stations inside the theme parks if needed Do not hesitate to look at park maps for first aid stations in case you get overheated or notice signs of heat-related illness. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Florida heat wave: Tips for staying cool, safe at theme parks COLES COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) A cheaper and cleaner form of energy is coming to Coles County. APEX Clean Energy will be putting up wind turbines soon. However, the energy company has a lot of steps and requirements to complete before they can start construction. Due to state regulations, surveying the farmland is a must, which can lead to damaging the crops but that isnt news to any of these farmers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUSLY: Coles Co. wind farm one step closer to final decision The land owners get up to $5 million per year collectively, and they agree to possible damage when signing their leases with APEX. Officials said that no landowners have expressed concerns about the crop damage and are excited for this new development. They know were there, and no one has said anything to us about having any issue with it. These farmers are excited about this project, Ray Hoover, Senior Manager at APEX Clean Energy, said. The landowners are going to receive immense payments for them and their children. I think its going to be a huge impact on their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hoover said about $83 million in property tax revenue will go right back into the schools and community of Coles County during the duration of this project over roughly thirty years. He hopes construction on the wind farm will begin later this year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. Gold remains perfectly solid when briefly heated beyond previously hypothesized limits, a new study reports, which may mean a complete reevaluation of how matter behaves under extreme conditions. The international team of scientists behind the study used intense, super-short laser blasts to push thin fragments of gold past a limit known as the entropy catastrophe; the point at which a solid becomes too hot to resist melting. It's like a melting point, but for edge cases where the physics isn't conventional. In a phenomenon called superheating, a solid can be heated too quickly for its atoms to have time enter a liquid state. Crystals can remain intact way past their standard melting point, albeit for a very, very brief amount of time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: US Startup Claims It Can Make Gold Using Fusion Technology Typically, the entropy catastrophe is thought to be three times the standard melting point. Using a new method for calculating the energy of reflected X-rays to accurately measure absorbed heat energy, the team found gold could be heated 14 times that limit before it finally liquified. Gold was heated many times beyond its melting point. (White et al., Nature, 2025) As surprising as it sounds, the results don't break any laws of thermodynamics they just show that sometimes reactions happen too quickly for the laws of thermodynamics to apply. It seems the atoms inside gold have nowhere to move to for a brief period of time, allowing thermal energy to dissipate before the structure can give way. The researchers were able to reach 19,000 Kelvin (that's around 18,700 degrees Celsius or just over 33,700 degrees Fahrenheit), with the gold retaining its solid structure for more than 2 picoseconds (a picosecond is a trillionth of a second) long enough to prompt the researchers to reconsider existing models. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This measurement not only surpasses the previously predicted bounds of the entropy catastrophe but also suggests a much higher threshold for the superheating of solids, thereby rewriting the fundamental understanding of the stability of the solid phase under extreme conditions," write the researchers in their published paper. The implications here are intriguing and exciting for physicists: it's possible that some solids don't have a melting point at all, at least when superheated for ultra-short periods of time. "Our experiments clearly demonstrate that the previously proposed limit of superheating can be exceeded by far if the material is heated fast enough," write the researchers. There are all kinds of areas where this new knowledge is going to be useful. Super-quick heating events happen everywhere from asteroid collisions deep in space, to nuclear reactors here on Earth, and scientists are now going to have a better understanding of what's happening within these events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The researchers want to see if other solids react in the same way as gold in future studies, as well as exploring the entropy catastrophe further: essentially redrawing the chart of when solids can no longer exist as solids. "Maybe we thought we solved it in the 1980s with this superheating limit, but now I think it's an open question again," physicist Thomas White, from the University of Nevada, told Alex Wilkins at New Scientist. "How hot can you make something before it melts?" The research has been published in Nature. Related News BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A Goodwill store in Gonzales permanently closed Sunday, July 27. But shoppers and residents looking to donate items shouldnt fret a new location will be opening soon. Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana closed the store at 306 S. Airline Highway. The new location will be across the street at 419 S. Airline Highway. A spokesperson said the store will have a bigger sales floor for a better shopping experience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new place will also have a bigger warehouse space in the back, which will increase efficiency for processing and moving goods between the Baton Rouge area and the central warehouse in New Orleans. The store could open in the latter half of August. An official date has not been set. How to shop amid tariff uncertainty Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. Have you been priced out of your home town? Email: money@telegraph.co.uk. Growing up in a village six miles from Cambridge, Heather Allansdottir describes her childhood as idyllic. Playing on the village green with my friends, it was so safe. Its heartbreaking that my kids wont have that. We were the last generation to have that. Despite her and her partner having good jobs, Allansdottir cannot afford to buy a house where she grew up. Her father, an engineering professor at the university, bought a cottage for just under 100,000 in 1996 and still lives there with her stepmother. Now, similar cottages sell for over 1m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Allansdottir, 40, is a lecturer at Birkbeck University in London. Shes been renting in the city, but the couple want to make the move to owning their own home, and would have liked to settle in Cambridge. Were currently renting in east London and hoping to start a family. Were looking for a two- or three-bedroom house, but theres nothing in our budget, she says. We might have to buy an apartment, which isnt ideal if you want kids. She wants to be near her father and stepmother so they can support with childcare in future, but also so her children can have a close relationship with them. While her upbringing was not affluent, she says, it was intellectual. This included her attending Hills Road Sixth Form College, one of the top state schools in the country and another reason why the area is so sought-after. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Word got out about Hills Road a few years ago. I think that it gets more people into Oxford and Cambridge than Eton and Harrow I had an amazing time there. Anyone would want their kids to go there, she says. Despite the steep premium of living in Cambridge, the city offers a desirable quality of life - Geoff Robinson Allansdottir is still in touch with a lot of the people from school, and says they are also finding it difficult to move back despite being vets, doctors and university lecturers. Its surreal. I feel like, If I cant buy there, who can?. I dont mean this in a snooty way, but Im not a struggling single parent. Nostalgic returns become increasingly unattainable While the price increases in Cambridge are particularly marked, the issue of 30-somethings being priced out of where they grew up is a trend thats occurring across Britain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just over half (52pc) of prospective home movers would consider returning to their home town, according to Zoopla, but thats increasingly easier said than done. This is primarily thanks to steep house price growth over the last 20 years, which is particularly marked across London where average prices have gone up by 119pc in that time, along with significant jumps in the South East and East of England, where Cambridge is located. Our latest analysis certainly brings to light the profound impact that two decades of house price growth has had on the dream of returning home, says Daniel Copley, consumer expert at Zoopla. UK house prices have soared by 74pc since 2005, making that nostalgic return financially unattainable for many, especially in hotspots in the South East and Eastern England. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regional house price growth can also be affected by local investment, with Cambridge in particular being affected by the opening of Cambridge Science Park attracting more workers to the area, and in turn encouraging other companies to set up there, too. Allansdottir gives the example of Station Road which has been transformed from a row of tired shops and cafes into a place that now has a WeWork and Apples offices. ARM, Samsung, Spotify and Huawei also have headquarters in the city. Its surprising how much Cambridge has changed, especially in the last five years, but also before that, she says. People are using it as a commuter space, and its now a very affluent area as opposed to a middle-class city. While this kind of investment can bring a lot of positives, for those like Allansdottir, it means even fewer affordable areas. With the majority of Cambridge and its surrounding villages outside her budget, Allansdottir is now looking at other options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One friend has moved to Chesterton, which is far from her parents[Others] are moving to Norwich and Ely, which are more affordable. Thats probably what we will do move to Ely. I would have had to rent a two-bed flat with three kids Farhana Hussain experienced a similar problem when she tried to move back to her home town of Pinner, Middlesex. Hussain, 47, lives in Tonbridge, Kent with her three sons, aged 15, 18 and 20, and has been there since 2016 although, even back then, shed ideally have moved to Pinner. [Pinners] a lovely suburban area, it felt very safe. We walked to friends houses, it had a village feel, but you were on the Underground and could get into central London very easily, she says. Farhana Hussain quickly discovered she couldnt buy anything suitable in Pinner with her budget of 400k - Saskia Albers Ms Hussains parents and many of her school friends still live in the area but, in the end, the family couldnt make the move work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We decided on Kent because of the value for money, and also because we were spoilt for choice when it came to schools. I moved reluctantly because it ticked a lot of boxes, she says. The desire to move back returned in 2020, when Hussain and her husband divorced, and the pandemic hit. Divorce and Covid changed my perspective on family life. I was a full-time, single mum. I thought I really need to go home. I wanted to be near my family and the friends I had grown up with. She looked at what she could buy with a budget of 400,000, and found nothing suitable. I would have been able to rent a two-bedroom flat. I couldnt buy. Theres nothing under a 1m in Pinner, as there are no terraced houses and everything is detached or semi-detached. The reality is that, unless you have two, very good, incomes, you cant afford to buy there. The rent on a two-bedroom flat was still steep, and would have come to around 1,200 a month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While it was painful, Hussain decided she was better off staying in Tonbridge, where she was able to buy a three-bedroom house. We could have forced it to work in a two-bed flat in Pinner with three kids, but we would have compromised in other ways, she says. As well as having more space, Hussain says Tonbridge has more ready access to good schools one of her sons was on the waiting list for an outstanding school in Pinner, but was number 247 and she can still see her parents relatively easily, with trains taking just under an hour. Hussain says shes found it helpful to stop thinking about not living in Pinner as a downgrade. I attach these memories to it but, if I moved back, I might find Id outgrown too much there. Im not the person I was at 17 or 18. Weve made a life for ourselves here. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) Goodwills Round Up scholarship applications are now open for college, technical school and university students for the fall 2025 semester. Goodwill says it is continuing its scholarship program to provide financial support to students in the Southern Rivers area. Selected applicants will receive a $500 scholarship to cover school expenses such as tuition, books, equipment, room and board, and more. To be eligible for consideration, students must provide verification of enrollment at accredited institutions, write a brief personal essay and agree to a media release consent form. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The applications will remain open until Aug. 22. To learn more and apply, students should visit Goodwills Round Up Scholarship page. Goodwill of the Southern Rivers is based in Columbus, Georgia and serves 50 counties throughout east Alabama and west Georgia. The organization says the scholarship is funded by donors and shoppers. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. Google has shown us what the end of the internet looks like. It calls it AI Mode. From Tuesday, instead of seeing ten blue links to third party websites when searching Google, users will see digests of information created by AI. Google says this lets you ask nuanced questions that would have previously required multiple searches. Sometimes there is value in these digests as demonstrated by AI startup Perplexity. However, the change has catastrophic economic consequences because of Googles dominant position over what we see on the web; AI mode removes the need to visit the site that created the original material. Google, it should be remembered, was found guilty of maintaining a monopoly by an American federal court last summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An analytics study last week suggested that the top ranking site in blue link Google loses 79 per cent of its traffic after AI summaries are introduced. Other surveys suggest even more: as much as 96 per cent. This is not how the web was supposed to end. Sir Tim Berners Lees original vision was of a rapid publishing technology, a two way conversation much like the telephone. When Google was young, it promised to get out of our way. We wanted people to spend a minimum amount of time on Google. The faster they got their results, the more theyd use it, said founder Larry Page in 2004. But now Google has become like The Eagles Hotel California you can never leave. Thats in keeping with an extractive industry which takes much from publishing but gives little back. AI makes this an order of magnitude worse. Generative AI breaks an informal social contract that has existed since the dawn of business: that a buyer should take a keen interest in the health of its suppliers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AI, though, is replacing suppliers entirely: an analogy is eating the seed corn. For having ingested everything from entire research libraries to newspapers, from YouTube to the works of every gallery, AI can create fine tuned pastiches and continue to produce them forever. Google can also punish sites that refuse to be scraped with a kind of corporate death sentence: making them disappear from Google. A former Facebook engineer, Georg Zoeller, who also advises Asian governments on AI, says generative AI is little more than piracy disguised by hype. Large language models are just storage, and all they are doing is compressing knowledge, he says. The industry would have been murdered in its crypt if it had told the truth, and people realised that on the other side of the bot is a Napster. The magic trick is how AI disguises the theft. Google says the old search results will still be available if you want or can find them. Britains Competition and Markets Authority has investigated the companys use of generative AI, but its remedies are so far very tentative, and it is soliciting views. The CMA also finds British business paying a very high toll to maintain Googles advertising dominance: UK publicly listed companies spend 10 billion with Google advertising, which the CMA suggests is far higher than it would be in a competitive digital ad market. The CMA can and should do much more to tame this predatory giant, so British internet businesses can survive. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A young software engineer at Google was killed in a freak accident after a large branch fell and hit her during a hike in the Yosemite National Park. Angela Lin, 29, was out with her boyfriend in the Tuolumne Grove area of the park on the afternoon of July 19 when the incident occurred. It was just unimaginable that something like this could occur, her partner, David Hua, told SD Gate. On such a popular trail, too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hua recalled that several branches had fallen out of the sky, including several smaller ones near to him and a large one that had struck Lin. Lin was on the ground with a bloody head wound, he said, adding that he had performed CPR on her until a park ranger had arrived. An ambulance was later called but Lin was reportedly already dead. Lins boyfriend, David Hua, said several branches fell near them, with a large one striking his girlfriend (Getty Images) The Independent has contacted the Yosemite National Park for further information on the incident. Other details on the incident were scarce, though one individual who claimed to have been present posted on Reddit: I am a tourist, but was on the scene of an extremely tragic freak accident in the area trying to provide aid, and it has been haunting me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I cant stop thinking about it and cant find any news articles updating about the situation. In posts on Facebook groups the Lin family requested privacy to deal with their grief. However, Hua says that authorities have not been forthcoming with further information on their investigations prompting him to reach out to the media. We are seeking more information from the park service regarding this incident, especially around trail safety, maintenance and awareness of problematic trees on popular trails, and future prevention of similar incidents, Hua told SF Gate. In a statement shared with The Independent, a spokesperson for Google said: "We lost a loved and respected member of our team. Were very saddened by this tragedy, and our hearts are with their family and loved ones. NEED TO KNOW A Tennessee congressman is recovering after being kicked by a horse on his farm Tennessee Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee suffered a broken rib and bruising but otherwise "hasn't missed a beat," his press secretary tells PEOPLE Burchett's injury comes nearly three years after his daughter spent several days in the ICU from a serious horse-related injury Tennessee Rep. Tim Burchett is powering through horse-related injuries that he sustained during Congress' summer recess. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Republican congressman, 60, was "accidentally kicked by a horse" over the weekend while doing work on his farm, his spokesperson Will Garrett confirmed to PEOPLE on July 29. Burchett's injury comes nearly three years after his young daughter was also in the news for suffering more serious horse-related injuries. "He suffered a broken rib and bruising but hasn't missed a beat," Garrett said in the statement. "He spoke in Maury County last night and has a full slate of district events throughout the week. There have been no changes to his schedule." Daniel Heuer/Bloomberg via Getty Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn. Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn. In August 2022, Burchett's daughter, Isabel, sustained significant injuries in a horse-related accident. Described by NBC affiliate WBIR as an "avid barrel racer," she broke five ribs and a wrist, and sustained additional internal injuries, the outlet previously reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was finally discharged from the East Tennessee Children's Hospital following a nerve-wracking 16-day stay under intensive care. "It's unbelievable, just how it all went down," Burchett told WBIR at the time of Isabel's hospital release. "You know, rope could have wrapped around her neck, could have been tragic." He added, "She's a tough little girl, and she'll be back on that horse. She is one tough girl." She reportedly joked to her parents after the fact, "Look, Mama, I didn't break a nail." Burchett has served in the House of Representatives since January 2019. During his time in office, he has been outspoken about gun rights: following a mass shooting at a Nashville private school in 2023, he said, "It's a horrible, horrible situation and we're not gonna fix it. Criminals are gonna be criminals." Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The lawmaker also made headlines for allegedly getting into a physical altercation with California Rep. Kevin McCarthy following the former House speaker's ousting, as well as throwing a 15-minute Christmas party on Capitol Hill. Read the original article on People Del Jason Buckel (R-Allegany) and Sen. Stephen S. Hershey Jr. (R-Upper Shore), leaders of the House and Senate Republicans, in a 2023 file photo. (Photo by Bryan P. Sears/Maryland Matters) House and Senate Republicans said they oppose a continuing effort by Gov. Wes Moore (D) to hire displaced federal workers. Moore asked the Legislative Policy Committee in June to approve the use of $30,000 with the current budget to help cover the salaries of two new part-time contractual employees to handle recruitment and hiring of federal employees, according to an analysis by the Department of Legislative Services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since making the request, Moore announced a hiring freeze in most state agencies. The governor is also looking to reduce state payroll through a voluntary buyout program. House Minority Leader Del. Jason C. Buckel (R-Allegany) said the request is surprising. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US How can we, at the same time, pursue the hiring of former federal employees, unless they are in those critical positions hes outlined? Buckel said in a statement. That is unlikely. If his administration needs to essentially hire additional staff whose job it will be to hire additional staff, that contradicts any notion about government efficiency. It seems disingenuous to take from state employees with one hand while giving to former federal employees with the other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The relatively small amount comes from $2 million set aside by the legislature this year to fund a program to expedite the hiring of federal employees who are fired or laid off. Since February, the state has hired 251 people across all state agencies, according to legislative analysts. But just 7% of those about 18 people were hired through the program meant to help displaced federal workers, according to the Department of Legislative Services. We have a duty to be good stewards of the taxpayer dollar, particularly in these tight budget times, Senate Minority Leader Sen. Stephen S. Hershey Jr. (R-Upper Shore) said. Our taxpayers cannot afford the unsustainable level of hiring the Moore Administration has pursued over the last three years, and they certainly cannot afford a phony hiring freeze. The Governor needs to be honest with the people of Maryland. Louisiana Senator John Kennedy has responded to the deadly shooting in Midtown Manhattan with all the wisdom of a bumper sticker. We dont need more gun control, we need more idiot control, Kennedy said on Fox Newss Hannity Monday night. And I dont know exactly how to do that. Host Sean Hannity agreed with Kennedy, noting that New York already has some of the strictest gun laws in the country. But the assailant reportedly drove to New York from Nevada, where there are only minor restrictions on purchasing assault weapons. Upon arriving in New York, the shooter killed four people, including an off-duty police officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans love to feign ignorance about solutions to gun violence after deadly shootings, but without essential idiot control laws, they still manage to find their way onto national television to blow hot air in the hopes of being reelected. One thing is clear: People are far safer dealing with an idiot than an assailant armed with an M4 assault rifle. A bench from a courtroom in Yellowstone County. The benches have "Y' carved in each for Yellowstone (Photo by Darrell Ehrlick of the Daily Montanan). Gov. Greg Gianforte is accepting applications and nominations to fill two district court vacancies in the Thirteenth Judicial District, his office said in a news release Monday. The chief justice of the Montana Supreme Court notified the governor of the vacancies in the Thirteenth Judicial District (Yellowstone County) on July 18, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this year, the Legislature passed and the governor signed into law House Bill 913, which increased the number of judges for Yellowstone County from eight to ten. Any lawyer in good standing who has the qualifications set forth by law for holding the position of district court judge may apply or be nominated, the news release said. The application form is available at nominatejudges.mt.gov. Applications must be submitted electronically as well as in hard copy by 5 p.m. Tuesday, August 26, 2025. Applications will be made available to the public. All applications will be considered for appointment to either seat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Members of the public will be given the opportunity to provide letters of support or other comments regarding the applicants at nominatejudges.mt.gov from Wednesday, August 27, 2025, through Friday, September 26, 2025, according to the Governors Office. Applicants must receive at least three letters of support to be considered for appointment by the governor. Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-N.Y., dodged a question about whether she would endorse New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani during an interview on Tuesday. On CNN's "Inside Politics," fill-in host Manu Raju spoke to Hochul about the deadly New York City shooting that occurred on Monday, and asked the governor to respond to Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., highlighting a post by Mamdani in which he called for defunding the police in 2020. "Thats about as pathetic as it gets. I mean, seriously, going after an unelected official who said something back in 2020 when many people were, I mean, come on, give me a break," Hochul said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Stand up to the gun lobby and show that you have the courage to do something thats actually pretty useful. Instead of just complaining about tweets. I dont talk about tweets. I dont do tweets on this. I govern, I know what Im doing, and we have the toughest gun laws in the nation," she added. Mamdani Officially Wins Nyc Dem Primary By 12 Points Over Cuomo, Who's Staying In The Race For Now Gov. Hochul dodged a question about whether she would endorse Zohran Mamdani on Tuesday. "And as I said, we are in the top. We have the number one in the large states for gun safety. Thats what my job is. The governor is supposed to save her constituents, and Im doing that every day with these tough laws," Hochul continued in response to Stefanik, a possible Republican contender for New York governor. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hochul went on to defend her own record, and argued that she has invested more money in law enforcement than any New York governor. "Thats what I call funding the police. So stop deflecting," she said of Stefanik. Raju noted that it was Mamdani who called for defunding the police in 2020 and then asked Hochul if she was going to endorse him. "No, listen, thats why do we talk about this today? There are families that are grieving. Im sorry, you know, were not talking politics. This is not the time and place for it," Hochul said, referring to the lives that had been affected by the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York Democrat Says Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani 'Too Extreme To Lead' New York Governor Kathy Hochul speaks at a press conference in Manhattan in New York City, Feb. 20, 2025. Mamdani, a Democratic socialist, defeated former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic mayoral primary earlier this month. The socialist candidate received endorsements from key progressives, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, as well as Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. Hochul has defended Mamdani against threats from President Donald Trump, but has yet to endorse him for mayor. Click Here For More Coverage Of Media And Culture Democratic socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani, who won the Democratic primary for mayor of New York City, speaks at an endorsement event from the union DC 37 on July 15, 2025, in New York City. Mamdani will face off against Cuomo, Mayor Eric Adams, and Jim Walden, who are all running as Independents, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. Original article source: Gov. Hochul dodges on whether she'll endorse Zohran Mamdani NORMAL, Ill. (WMBD) Gov. JB Pritzker announced a new Illinois State Board of Trustee member following the resignation of Trustee Scott Jenkins. On Monday, Pritzker announced he was appointing Archer Daniels Midlands President of Sustainable Materials and Strategic Initiatives, Kris Lutt, to fill the vacant seat after Jenkins stepped down on Friday, July 25, for personal reasons, said ISU spokesman Chris Coplan. ISU president Aondover Tarhoule said the school is honored to welcome Kris to the board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He exemplifies the kind of success and service we hope to inspire in all Redbirds. His personal journeyfrom student to global executivereflects the transformative power of an Illinois State education. We look forward to the insight, integrity, and innovation he will bring to our Board, Tarhoule said. At ADM, Lutt has been responsible for the growth of strategy in key areas such as defossilization, decarbonization, and BioSolutions, Coplan said. Lutt also serves as a board member for Heart of Illinois Community Foundation is an active member of the community, Coplan said. He graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Business Administration from Illinois State. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information, visit ISUs website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) Gov. JB Pritzker signed the safe gun storage bill into law, which will change how Illinois gun owners store their weapons. The new law will require Illinois gun owners to keep their firearms in a locked container if a minor or at-risk person could gain access to the weapon. An at-risk person includes those that cannot legally obtain a FOID card. Safes with a lock code and cable gun locks count as a locked container. Pritzker says this has been an effort of state Democrats and his administration to reduce gun violence in Illinois. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mandating secure and responsible storage is a critical first step in combating these problems and protecting our communities, he said. If we can prevent even one death or accident through these measures, they will have been more than worth it. Any gun owner who has a firearm stolen must report it within 48 hours. If it isnt reported in time, the gun owner could receive a fine. If the owner of a firearm had their gun stolen by an at-risk person or minor, and that person who stole it commits a crime, the owner could face a fine based on the severity of the crime committed with the stolen gun. State Sen. Laura Ellman said the bill was crafted to stop kids coming across loaded guns in the house and accidentally killing friends, family or themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For far too long, we have tolerated gun deaths, the Naperville Democrat said, Children and teenagers and family members being torn apart by guns found in the home. Back in early May, during the Gun Lobby Day in Springfield, gun rights activists spoke about how theyll potentially sue the safe gun storage law. State Sen. Li Arellano, a Republican who represents some areas of Peoria, said the courts have struck down previous Illinois gun laws, and theres potential this law will be challenged, too. Nobody wants minors getting shot accidentally, Arellano said. [But] this bill targets law-abiding citizens and, in some cases, its targeting victims of a crime and making them criminals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One Illinois gun law that has been blocked is the assault weapons ban, which was struck down by a federal court. The court, in its ruling, said it violated the Second and 14th Amendments. Currently, that law is in the federal appellate court. The safe gun storage law includes a statewide campaign led by the Illinois Department of Public Health that would educate Illinoisans on the new law. IDPH will get that money from the leftover funds of a $2.3 million grant they received back in 2022. Arellano said the bill could have received bipartisan support on the grounds of educating gun safety, but that the Democrats chose the wrong approach. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. A Planned Parenthood clinic in Salt Lake City, Utah, is pictured on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. (Photo by McKenzie Romero/Utah News Dispatch) Gov. Josh Shapiro has signed onto a lawsuit alleging the federal government is illegally blocking Medicaid funds from going to Planned Parenthood and affiliated healthcare providers. The suit centers on a provision of the recently-passed mega bill , which enacts many of President Donald Trumps domestic policy priorities. It bans Medicaid funding from going to nonprofit health care providers primarily engaged in family planning services, reproductive health, and related medical care, that received at least $800,000 in Medicaid funds in 2023, as well as their affiliates, for one year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complaint alleges that the criteria is narrow enough as to target Planned Parenthood clinics, effectively punishing the reproductive health care provider for its abortion rights advocacy. It calls this a violation of the organizations First Amendment rights and says it harms Medicaid recipients who use their clinics services. Planned Parenthood is the nations largest single provider of abortions. But it is also a major provider of reproductive health care generally, with over 2 million patients. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE In a post on the social media platform X, Shapiro said the defunding provision will rip away healthcare from thousands of Pennsylvanians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added, this unconstitutional decision threatens to close vital health care centers and deny Pennsylvanians essential, lifesaving care such as cancer screening and prevention, family planning services, and prenatal and postpartum care. Today, I'm suing the Trump Administration alongside 22 other states to stop them from unlawfully defunding Planned Parenthood, which will rip away healthcare from thousands of Pennsylvanians. This unconstitutional decision threatens to close vital health care centers and deny Governor Josh Shapiro (@GovernorShapiro) July 29, 2025 The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court in Massachusetts Tuesday and names the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and its current leader, former Pennsylvania U.S. Senate candidate, Dr. Mehmet Oz. It was signed by attorneys general in 21 other states and Washington, D.C.. Shapiro is the only signatory serving as governor, or outside of an attorney generals office. All signatories are Democrats or working in Democrat-led offices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andrew Nixon, an HHS spokesperson, told the Capital-Star in a statement, states should not be forced to fund organizations that have chosen political advocacy over patient care. It is a shame that these democrat attorney generals [sic] seek to undermine state flexibility and disregard longstanding concerns about accountability. The organization has an advocacy and political arm called the Planned Parenthood Action Fund, which supports political candidates. A spokesperson for Shapiro declined to answer specific questions about why Shapiro, and not Republican state Attorney General Dave Sunday, signed onto the suit. A spokesperson for Sunday did not respond to a request for comment before publication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal law already prevents federal funds from being used to cover abortions, except in cases of rape, incest, or to save the life of a mother. However, Planned Parenthood has been allowed to receive federal funds for services like STI checks, cancer screenings and other reproductive health services. Medicaid is a program funded in partnership by state and federal governments, but states administer the programs individually. Blocking federal funds from reaching Planned Parenthood has long been a goal of right wing activists and lawmakers. The complaint filed Tuesday cites a statement made by U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) saying he would like to block funding for the organization. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attempts to target the groups federal funding have been tried before, including a 2007 effort led by then-Indiana Rep. Mike Pence (later Trumps vice president from 2017 to 2021), and a 2017 effort led by Republicans in Congress. The first Trump administration also attempted to block some federal funds from reaching the organization through the use of executive power. A separate lawsuit over the same law filed by Planned Parenthood resulted in an injunction earlier this week, effectively blocking the federal government from enforcing its Medicaid funding ban. Gov. Tim Walz has called special elections in two Senate districts left vacant this month after the burglary conviction of Sen. Nicole Mitchell, DFL-Woodbury, and the death of Sen. Bruce Anderson, R-Buffalo. Elections to fill the vacancies will take place on Nov. 4, the governors office announced on Tuesday. If necessary, special primary elections will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 26. Mitchell, a Democratic-Farmer-Labor senator, represented District 47, a Washington County seat that includes the suburbs of Woodbury and parts of Maplewood. She resigned last Friday, a week after a Becker County jury found her guilty of two felony charges for breaking into her estranged stepmothers Detroit Lakes home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anderson was a longtime Republican lawmaker who represented Senate District 29. The district is northwest of Minneapolis and includes parts of Wright, Meeker, and Hennepin counties, as well as the cities of Buffalo and Monticello. He died unexpectedly on July 21 at the age of 75. With special elections now scheduled in both districts, Minnesota is on track to tie its record for most special elections in a year. The last time there were six special elections was 1994. Criminal cases, unexpected deaths and a residency dispute have driven up the number of non-election-year contests and have affected political dynamics in a Legislature narrowly divided between the parties. DFLers currently hold 33 seats in the Senate to Republicans 32. The DFL only needs to hold on to Mitchells former seat if it wants to maintain the Senate majority. Republicans would have to win both special elections to gain the majority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anderson represented a rural district widely seen as a Republican stronghold. The DFL has dominated elections in the Woodbury area in recent years, though Mitchells criminal case could draw greater Republican investment in the race. Candidates can begin filing paperwork to run in District 29 and District 47 this Wednesday. They have until 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, to submit affidavits of candidacy to county officials or the Minnesota Secretary of State. Related Articles Some state and local officials have concerns about what will happen to the economy when thousands of Haitian immigrants lose their temporary legal status early next year. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Governor Mike DeWine was in Springfield on Friday for a series of meetings hes been having regularly with community leaders. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We do this every few months, DeWine said. As reported on News Center 7 at 5:30, an estimated 15,000 Haitian immigrants have moved to Springfield and Clark County in recent years. News Center 7 has covered real challenges that the sudden population influx has created in the community. Some include the strain the population surge is putting on police and fire services, schools, healthcare, and translation services. DeWine said there are now economic concerns since the Department of Homeland Security announced in June that it ended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians and other groups living in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement >>RELATED: DHS ends Temporary Protected Status for Haitians The people who came under that label, companies who were no longer legally allowed to employ them, DeWine said. DeWine told News Center 7s John Bedell that he met with representatives from McGregor Metal, Dole and Topre America, and others, who all employ Haitian migrants. DeWine shared some of the concerns hes hearing from the Clark County business community. Theyre expressing to me concern about, you know, suddenly losing a large number of their employees, DeWine said. The governor said he has his economic worries too. If all those individuals one day no longer can work in those companies and those companies can no longer employ them and they have to go out and then try to figure out how they go from there, DeWine said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added that the state continues to provide resources to take to strain off the healthcare systems in Springfield and help with drivers training and education. News Center 7 will continue to follow this story. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) During a Monday morning visit to Panama City Beach, the governor sounded the alarm on artificial intelligence. Gov. Ron DeSantis called AI the biggest issue facing both society and the economy. However, DeSantis made it clear that the future of AI needs to be handled with caution. He warned that too much control could fall into the hands of big tech, which he says may not share the publics interest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. DeSantis speaks on school supply tax holiday Its another thing for technology to try to supplant the human experience and to act like humans dont even really need to think for themselves because they just have, you know, these machines that are going to be churning out. And incidentally, artificial intelligence is wrong a lot of the time, Governor Ron DeSantis said. While he didnt lay out specifics, DeSantis says a plan is in the works and hell be rolling it out in the coming months. Whether his plan will involve new legislation is not known. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. The massive wildfire burning on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon has now scorched more than 192 square miles, significantly jumping in size since it passed the threshold to become a "megafire" 100,000 acres, or about 156 square miles. The Dragon Bravo Fire is now the largest wildfire of the year so far in the U.S., according to InciWeb, a government site that tracks wildfires. The second-largest is the Cram Fire, which burned more than 95,000 acres in Oregon. The Dragon Bravo Fire has been burning since it was sparked by a lightning strike on July 4. In an update on Monday morning, fire officials said the blaze was 13% contained. (WATCH: Sea Lions Evacuate As Russia Earthquake Strikes) A pyrocumulus cloud is seen above a wildfire "The way we calculate containment in an active wildfire is it is a percent of the total fire perimeter that is out cold," Southwest Area Incident Management Team public information officer Lisa Jennings told KTAR News. "We actually have our firefighters going out there and making sure that those areas are contained, and so that feet of contained line continues to increase, but at the same time, the fire has seen a lot of growth." (MORE: Jaw-Dropping Lightning Strike Caught On Video) More Historic Structures Threatened This wildfire has already claimed at least 70 buildings, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge, and has shut down the North Rim for the remainder of the 2025 season, but now, more buildings are in its path. According to Fox 10 Phoenix, the historic Kaibab Lodge in Fredonia, which was built in 1926, is also being threatened by the fire. (MORE: Lightning Is A Surprising Tree Killer) The lodge sits just 9 miles from the North Rim Lookout Tower and has been spared so far, but it's one of the buildings that the 968 personnel assigned to the fire have been working tirelessly to protect from the flames. "Just say a prayer," lodge owner Larry Innes told Fox 10 Phoenix. "I mean, it's kind of out of our hands. I mean, the things are working our way right now and let's hope it keeps going that way for the next few days." Ellen Chaffee leads a discussion on the BadAss Grandmas for Democracy on July 28, 2025, in Moorhead, Minn. (Jeff Beach/North Dakota Monitor) MOORHEAD, Minn. A leader of the BadAss Grandmas for Democracy on Monday encouraged voters to push back against two proposals from the North Dakota Legislature to change the state constitution. Dina Butcher, part of the group that was the driving force behind creating the Ethics Commission in North Dakota, said the two measures are the Legislatures way of discouraging citizen-initiated measures to change the constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One measure would require approval of 60% of the states voters to pass an initiated measure; the other would limit citizen initiated measures to a single subject. The BadAss Grandmas, during an event at the Moorhead Public Library, noted that if either measure had been in place in 2018, the year North Dakota voters approved creating the Ethics Commission, the commission would not exist today. Voters in 2018 approved Measure 1 creating the Ethics Commission with about 54% of the vote. The measure also covered changes to campaign finance contributions, rule changes for lobbyists and conflict of interest rules. In 2026, the 60% ballot measure will be voted on during the November general election. The single subject rule will be on the ballot in the June 2026 primary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both of those measures are very much undermining the voice of the people, Vicki Voldal Rosenau of Valley City said from the audience. In supporting the 60% approval threshold during the legislative session, Sen. Kristin Roers, R-Fargo, said the states constitution should have a higher standard than changing state law. North Dakota voters in 2024 rejected a measure that would have limited future measures to a single subject, among other changes. The Legislature approved a third topic for a statewide vote in 2026. Voters in the November election will consider changes to the term limits provision added to the state constitution in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If passed, lawmakers would be able to serve for up to 16 years in one chamber. It also clarifies that partial terms, such as being appointed by a district executive committee to fill a vacant seat in the Legislature, would not count toward the term limit total. A yes vote also would also repeal a section of the term limit law that prohibits the Legislature from amending, repealing or altering the term limits portion of the law. The BadAss Grandmas presentation focused on the history of the group that created 2018s Measure 1 and the struggles to implement the Ethics Commission in the years since. Gov. Kelly Armstrong has questioned the scope of the commissions authority and Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorney General Drew Wrigley recently accused Ethics Commission Executive Director Rebecca Binstock and her staff of inexperience and poor judgment. The allegations came after the Ethics Commission released a report that stated the Attorney Generals Office did not fully cooperate with a commission investigation. Wrigley has denied this claim. Dina Butcher, left, speaks with Nancy Johnson of Hillsboro, N.D., after a BadAss Grandmas for Democracy presentation in Moorhead, Minn., on July 28, 2025. Butcher, a founding member of the group, advocated against ballot measures advanced by the Legislature. (Jeff Beach/North Dakota Monitor) Butcher said she believes the Governors Office and Attorney Generals Office are undermining the commission. The opposition that were facing now from both the governors office and the attorney general, recently maligning our present executive director is really, really irritating, Butcher said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ethics Commission has said it is examining its relationship with the Attorney Generals Office. Ellen Chaffee, a former Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor, led Mondays discussion for the BadAss Grandmas. She said she had been advised that it would take 10 years to implement the Ethics Commission. Were working with the ethics staff as best we can, Chaffee said, but encouraged attendees to let elected officials know there is support for the commission. Butcher, a former Republican candidate for North Dakota agriculture commissioner, was recognized at an event before the presentation for her work with the BadAss Grandmas. Butcher is moving to Washington state. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The shores of the Great Salt Lake near Syracuse, with Antelope Island in the background, are pictured on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch) The Great Salt Lake is slipping back into dangerously low levels, fueled by water consumption and drought conditions impacting much of the state. This article is published through the Great Salt Lake Collaborative, a solutions journalism initiative that partners news, education and media organizations to help inform people about the plight of the Great Salt Lake and what can be done to make a difference before it is too late. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Levels on Tuesday hovered around 4,192 feet in elevation, with the north arm at roughly 4,191.5 feet. Great Salt Lake Commissioner Brian Steed said lake levels are like layers on a cake, with the top layer, or highest water levels, typically resulting in a healthy lake 4,192 feet, Steed said, is nearing the bottom of the cake, putting the lake in the really bad range. Were sitting about where we were when we were trending into those lowest levels weve ever seen, said Steed, referring to fall 2022 when the lake bottomed out at 4,188.5 feet. He described the current conditions as scary low. Most of the state is now in severe drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, which means the air quality is worsened by dust, cattle have inadequate water and pasture, while streams and ponds are drying out. Some of the high elevation areas in the central part of the state are in moderate drought. Steed doesnt have a crystal ball, and according to the four-week weather outlook from the National Weather Service, theres an equal chance Utah could get above, or below, normal precipitation. So, if temperatures drop and northern Utah sees more monsoon precipitation, that could help lake levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But regardless, the Great Salt Lake will continue to drop, with its seasonal low typically some time between September and November. Thats what makes us extraordinarily nervous, Steed said. This drought is the real deal. And honestly, if we dont get it right, if we continue to over-use, were going to have real human consequences. Those consequences mean an exposed lakebed, which contributes to poor air quality as storms whip up toxic, heavy metal-laden dust that blankets the Wasatch Front, which can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. Declining levels can also expose microbialites, organic deposits that are a cornerstone of the lakes ecosystem. Microbialites are essential for brine fly populations, the main food source for millions of migratory birds that stop on the lake. If the microbialites are exposed for long periods of time, it can trigger a chain reaction ultimately impacting the entire ecosystem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Less water in the lake also contributes to an increase in salinity levels, which can harm the brine shrimp population that can also have devastating impacts on the ecosystem, while hurting the million-dollar brine shrimp fishing industry. The current levels mean mineral companies that operate on the lake will now be required to use less water. Junior water rights holders in the Great Salt Lake basin will also see less water this year. If levels drop below 4,190 feet, the state will close off the causeway that divides the north and south arms to keep salinity levels lower on the south arm. Steed thinks its unlikely lake levels will get that low this year. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) called the humanitarian crisis in Gaza a genocide in a social media post, appearing to be the first Republican in Congress to use the term to describe Israels conduct. Its the most truthful and easiest thing to say that Oct 7th in Israel was horrific and all hostages must be returned, but so is the genocide, humanitarian crisis, and starvation happening in Gaza, Greene wrote in a post Monday night on X. Her comment came as part of a larger response criticizing fellow Republican Rep. Randy Fine (Fla.), one of three Jewish Republicans in the House, who joined the chamber after a special election earlier this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greene dug into Fine over his recent social media posts about the conflict, including denying that there is starvation in Gaza. There is no starvation. Everything about the Palestinian cause is a lie, Fine wrote in a post Sunday. Last week, Fine posted: Release the hostages. Until then, starve away. Greene also in her post had recounted a conversation with Fine from before he was a candidate in which she claimed he told her he and his wife were looking forward to moving to Washington, with Greene saying Fine should live in the district he represents. In response to Greenes post, Fines office told The Hill in a statement: Congressman Fine isnt going to comment on conversations that never happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Trump said Monday there was real starvation happening in Gaza and that the U.S. would do more to address it. I can only imagine how Floridas 6th district feels now that their Representative, that they were told to vote for, openly calls for starving innocent people and children, Greene wrote before going on to make her comment about the genocide. But a Jewish U.S. Representative calling for the continued starvation of innocent people and children is disgraceful. His awful statement will actually cause more antisemitism, Greene said. Greenes stance marks a major break with her party, and an escalation of her criticism of Israel and U.S. financial support for Israel as the war in Gaza drags on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She posted over the weekend that what has been happening to innocent people and children in Gaza is horrific. Earlier this month, Greene introduced an amendment to cut funding to Israels missile defense, which failed in a 6-422 vote. Greene has previously been accused of antisemitism, most famously over a 2018 Facebook post that has come to be known as the Jewish space laser post though Greene never used that phrase. In the post, Greene floated that a laser beam or light beam from space solar generators could be to blame for wildfires in California, also mentioning the Rothschild Inc. Greene later said she did not know the Rothschilds have long been at the center of antisemitic conspiracy theories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greene also voted against an antisemitism awareness bill last year, saying it would define antisemitic behavior to include remarks about Jews killing Jesus, which she said went against the Bible. Updated at 5:02 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin asked Congress to ban so-called abortion shield laws in states where the procedure remains legal on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. (Screenshot from Attorney General's office livestream) Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin asked Congress on Tuesday to ban so-called abortion shield laws in states where the procedure remains legal. In a letter co-signed by 15 other state attorneys general, Griffin said, These laws are blatant attempts to interfere with states ability to enforce criminal laws within their borders and disrupt our constitutional structure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement States where abortion remains legal have passed laws protecting abortion providers from legal consequences if they perform abortions for residents of states where abortion is banned or supply residents in those states with medications that induce abortion. Such shield laws arose after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and many states, like Arkansas, passed new bans or allowed previous bans that had been dormant to go into effect. Some of these shield laws explicitly protect abortion providers who prescribed and shipped abortion pills to women in states with bans, frustrating attempts by anti-abortion officials to prosecute the providers. Louisiana criminally charged Dr. Margaret Carpenter of New York earlier this year for prescribing and mailing abortion pills the first time a provider has been charged with providing abortion medication over state lines. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, however, refused to arrest or extradite Carpenter. At a morning press conference in Little Rock, Griffin compared shield laws to sanctuary laws for those living in the U.S. illegally, saying they protect those who flout Arkansas outright abortion ban from being extradited to face criminal charges or to impose liability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youre going to allow people to operate in your border in a way that violates our law, that specifically and openly flouts our law, but youre going to protect them from the consequences of that, Griffin said at the press conference on Tuesday. Griffin said he believes what he is asking lawmakers to do is different from a federal abortion ban that the closely-divided Congress has seemed hesitant to tackle. This has more to do with a constitutional structure and states enforcing their own law. This is not about me enforcing New Yorks law or vice versa, Griffin said. Its about one state interfering with the enforcement of another states law. But Griffin acknowledged that asking for action and Congressional movement on the matter were two different matters. Abortion proved to be a weak issue for the GOP in the years since Roe was overturned, as public opinion continues to favor the procedure remaining legal in all or most cases, according to the Pew Research Center. Persistent victories in favor of abortion access at the ballot box preceded some Republicans backing off from hardline rhetoric, while President Donald Trump said he would veto a federal ban on the 2024 campaign trail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Griffin also announced Tuesday that he was sending cease-and-desist letters to two entities shipping abortion pills within the United States and to two website companies that provide website services to LifeOnEasyPills.org, a site Griffin said his office believed was based in India that ships abortion medication. In the letters, he said website language that said abortion pills are safe may constitute deceptive advertising under state law, citing studies that argue that mifepristone, a drug used in medication-induced abortions, is unsafe. If the entities dont cease advertising abortion pills in Arkansas, Griffin said his office may bring a lawsuit against them for violating the states deceptive trade practices law. Mifepristone was first approved by the FDA in 2000, and medical professionals widely consider its use in abortions safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Griffin would not say whether any of the websites he targeted with the cease-and-desist letters had actually mailed pills to Arkansas. I think I could say definitively that these particular cease-and-desist orders relate to the messaging of the advertising, Griffin said. We have some other inquiries, investigations that are ongoing that arent related to this. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The Brief An undocumented Guatemalan national is accused of a violent home invasion in Lansdale, police say. Jonathan Isaias Avila Arevalo is accused of kneeling on a woman as she slept in bed and strangling her at least twice during a struggle. He was arrested after police say he matched the description of the suspect and was found with an item that was taken from the home. PHILADELPHIA - A Guatemalan national who police say entered the United States in Texas is accused of choking a woman during a violent home invasion in Pennsylvania. What we know Officers from the Lansdale Police Department were called to a home on the 300 block of Vine Street on Sunday for reports of a burglary in progress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators later learned that the 32-year-old resident was awoken by a male stranger kneeling on her legs in bed, according to the department. When the woman managed to get out of bed and run downstairs to escape the intruder, police say he pushed her against a wall, investigators say. The woman again managed to break free of the suspect, but he regained control, this time placing his hands on her neck and applying pressure to her throat. The suspect is accused of putting the female victim into a choke hold and applying pressure to her throat, which prevented her from breathing. Investigators say the victim was able to break free during the struggle and call 911. However, the suspect was able to flee before police arrived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jonathan Isaias Avila Arevalo was arrested later that day after police say he matched the description of the suspect and was found with an item taken from the home. He was charged with aggravated assault, strangulation, burglary, and a number of other crimes. Dig deeper Investigators later learned that Arevalo is a homeless, undocumented Guatemalan national who came into the country at the Texas-Mexico border. HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) Sig Sauer has released a statement pledging full cooperation into the investigation into the death of an airman killed by what the Air Force describes as an unintentional discharge. Brayden Lovan died as a result of the shooting on July 21 at Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming. Lovan, a Muhlenberg County native, entered the Air Force in 2023, and was a defender assigned to the 90th Security Forces Squadron, 90th Security Forces Group. He was 21-years-old. Sig Sauer posted a statement on social media saying it would assist both the Air Force and the Army in answering questions about the incident. The Associated Press reports a leaked July 21 memo called for the M18 to be pulled from use for all operational and training activities immediately and replaced by the M4 rifle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The M18 is a variant of the P320 pistol, which has been the subject of multiple lawsuits claiming it can fire without the trigger being pulled. Sig Sauer denies the allegation and blames user error. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). The bloodstained assault rifle used by gunman Shane Tamura during his deadly rampage inside a Midtown skyscraper Monday night is shown in shocking detail in photos obtained by The Post. The Palmetto State Armory M4 assault rifle used in the shooting that killed an NYPD cop and three civilians is .223-caliber and is equipped with a black scope, a handguard, and a shoulder sling. The AR-style gun retails for around $500 and was equipped with a high-capacity magazine. The gun used in the massacre was seen smeared with blood. Obtained by the NY Post Photos show the green handguard of the rifle soaked in blood on the carpet in a 33rd-floor office inside 345 Park Ave., where the 27-year-old carried out the rush-hour mass shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The NYPD found a loaded revolver, ammunition, magazines, and a rifle case with rounds in a black BMW that Tamura double-parked outside the Midtown skyscraper, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said at a press conference Monday night. The car, registered in Nevada to Tamura, also contained a backpack and prescription medication, the commissioner said. Shane Tamura was IDd as the gunman in the bloody assault at a Park Avenue building. Obtained by the NY Post The gun appears to have a 30-round magazine. A concealed firearms permit from Las Vegas, Nevada, was found at the scene with a photo of the suspect and his name. The permit was issued in July 2022, according to the photo. Here is the latest on the NYC mass shooting: Tamura unleashed a barrage of shots with the assault rifle, which witnesses said sounded like an automatic weapon killing five people and injuring several others in the violent spree that began around 6:30 p.m. The permit was issued in July 2022, according to the photo. Obtained by the NY Post After shooting several people in the building lobby, Tamura fatally shot NYPD officer Didarul Islam, who was working a paid security detail and sitting near the elevator banks of the office building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tamura allowed a woman exiting those elevators to leave unharmed. He shot and killed a person on the 33rd floor of the building, which houses the headquarters for Blackstone and the NFL, before turning the gun on himself. NEW YORK CITY (PIX11) The suspected gunman in a Manhattan shooting on Monday used an AR-15 assault rifle, Gov. Kathy Hochul said. The killer used an AR-15style assault rifle. The same weapon of war used in mass shootings across America, Hochul said in a statement Tuesday. More Local News The suspected gunman, identified as Shane Tamura, opened fire at an office building on Park Avenue, which contains offices for the NFL, Blackstone, and Rudin Management. The suspected gunman in a Manhattan shooting on Monday used an AR-15 assault rifle, Gov. Kathy Hochul said. (Credit: NYPD) Four people were killed in the shooting, including Blackstone executive Wesley LePatner. The suspected gunman is also dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hochul said the shooting exemplifies the need for stricter gun control across the country. New York has some of the strongest gun laws in the nation. We banned assault weapons, Hochul said. But our laws only go so far when an AR-15 can be obtained in a state with weak gun laws and brought into New York to commit mass murder. Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. The gunmen behind a massacre in Kashmir in April that sparked a four-day war between India and Pakistan were killed in a raid on Monday, Delhi has said. Amit Shah, Indias home affairs minister, told parliament that three terrorists were eliminated in a joint police-army operation near the disputed city of Srinagar. He claimed the attackers were Pakistani nationals a charge Islamabad denies and said their identities were confirmed through forensic and ballistic tests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to inform the House about the elimination of three terrorists in a joint operation by the Indian Army, CRPF [Central Reserve Police Force], and Jammu and Kashmir Police in Dachigam, Kashmir, yesterday, Mr Shah told MPs. He named the three as Suleman, Hamza Afghani and Zibran and said they were involved in the killing of our innocent civilians in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam. We had ensured that the terrorists responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack could not flee to Pakistan, Mr Shah said, claiming that two of them were members of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a UN-designated Islamist terrorist organisation based in Pakistan. Indias opposition leaders have accused the government of severe security lapses and questioned why it had taken this much time to catch the attackers. More than 70 people were killed in the conflict between India and Pakistan in early May (pictured, Indian soldiers near Srinagar on July 28) - Farooq Khan/EPA/Shutterstock On April 22, 26 people were killed when gunmen emerged from the forests near Pahalgam and opened fire with automatic weapons. Most of the dead were Hindu tourists, with one from Nepal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Survivors said the attackers separated the men from the women and children, and ordered some of the men to recite the Muslim declaration of faith. A group calling itself The Resistance Front (TRF) initially claimed responsibility, before later retracting its statement. Earlier this month, the US designated the TRF as a front and proxy for LeT. India said Pakistan had supported the attackers, an accusation Islamabad refuted. The massacre sparked a short conflict between the nuclear-armed states. Between May 7 and a US-brokered ceasefire on May 10, both sides fired missiles and drones into each others territories, killing more than 70 people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pakistan claimed it shot down six Indian warplanes including three French-made Rafale jets, which India has not yet confirmed. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Indian security forces have killed three Pakistani gunmen who were involved in an April attack on Hindu tourists in Indian Kashmir that led to an intense military conflict between the two countries, home minister Amit Shah said on Tuesday. The heavily-armed men were killed in a military operation on Monday, more than three months after 26 people were gunned down in a popular resort town of Indian Kashmir on April 22. "I want to tell the parliament (that) those who attacked in Baisaran were three terrorists and all three have been killed," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shah said all three were Pakistani nationals and identified two of them as members of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist group based in Pakistan. "Indian security agencies have detailed evidence of their involvement in the attack," he said in a speech in the lower house of parliament. Monday's operation took place in the mountains of Dachigam, around 30 kilometres (18 miles) from the disputed region's main city of Srinagar, the army said in a statement. The attack in April saw gunmen burst out of forests near Pahalgam and rake crowds of visitors with automatic weapons. All those killed were listed as residents of India except one man from Nepal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Survivors said gunmen had separated the men from the women and children and ordered some of the men to recite the Muslim declaration of faith. India accused Pakistan of backing the attackers, a charge Islamabad denied, sparking an intense four-day conflict between the nuclear-armed rivals in May that killed more than 70 people on both sides. Muslim-majority Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since their independence from British rule in 1947, and the neighbours -- who both claim the region in full -- have fought two wars and several conflicts over its control. Shah said a security meeting was held immediately after the attack and it was decided that the attackers should not be "allowed to leave the country and return to Pakistan". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators relied on eyewitness accounts and forensic evidence to establish that the rifles found on the men were the same that were used in the April attack, he said. "It was confirmed that these three rifles were involved in killing of our innocent civilians," said Shah. A shadowy group called The Resistance Front (TRF) initially claimed responsibility for the April attack. But as public criticism mounted over the killings, the group retracted its claim. Earlier this month, the United States described the TRF as a "front and proxy" of Lashkar-e-Taiba. bb-sai/abh/mtp Alabama-based Guthrie's is celebrating 60 years of slinging chicken to hungry families and college students around the South. The chain has also opened restaurants as far west as Nevada and recently entered the Carolinas, expanding its footprint to more than 70 locations in 13 states. "My family and I are honored and blessed to have been bestowed with this incredible brand and concept," says Joe Kelly, the Guthrie's CEO. "We are so thankful for our fans that have supported us over the last 60 years!" Guthrie's has a "deep-rooted history in the South." Hal Guthrie opened the first Guthrie's in 1965 in Haleyville, Alabama, then added chicken fingers to the menu in 1978. In the '80s, the Guthries slimmed down the menu and created the world's first chicken-finger-focused restaurant concept. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As a family-owned restaurant with our name on the box, we are perfectionists who never compromise on the quality of our food. We are committed to serving fresh, hot food, one golden-fried chicken finger at a time," Kelly has said of their company. Guthrie's combos still include the original golden-fried chicken fingers, crinkle cut fries, fresh coleslaw, Texas toast, and Guthrie's Signature Sauce. The dipping sauce, which some say has been copycatted by its competitors, is a secret combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, and seasonings. The menu also includes a chicken sandwich and buckets of chicken. Both feature the same tender chicken fingers. The chain's official birthday is on July 31. Guthrie's will be offering Original Box Combos for the discounted price of $6 (including tax) on July 31 in participating stores nationwide. Read the original article on Southern Living BATTLE CREEK, Mich. (WOOD) Former state Rep. Jim Haadsma, a Democrat, is running to again represent the 44th District in the Michigan House of Representatives. The district covers northern Calhoun County, including Battle Creek. Haadsma previously held the seat, but he was defeated in 2024 by Republican challenger Steve Frisbie. After recount, result certified for 44th Michigan House District race Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, he is aiming to return to the House of Representatives in 2026. Haadsma formally launched his campaign on Monday, accusing Frisbie and other House Republicans of ineffective leadership and a lack of support for public education. Im running because Calhoun County deserves leadership that delivers accountability and real results for our community, he said in a statement. Haadsma said he will prioritize standing up for workers, investing in public education, fixing roads and protecting abortion rights. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. SOUTHWICK More than a year after a bullied student forced the community to confront racism in the schools, a lawsuit now accuses the Southwick district of allowing racial harassment to persist unchecked. The suit filed Friday in Hampden Superior Court by the Boston-based group Lawyers for Civil Rights claims that the Southwick-Tolland-Granville Regional School District failed to protect a middle schooler from repeated racial harassment by classmates. Identified in court documents as Jane Doe, the student allegedly endured racial bullying during the 2023-2024 school year leaving her emotionally distressed and academically behind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her mother, identified as Janet Doe, accuses the district of ignoring repeated complaints claiming that its negligence caused her daughter to suffer personal injury. The plaintiffs are seeking monetary damages and additional relief through a jury trial. The district did not respond to requests for comment. The circumstances of the case echo widely publicized incidents of racial harassment in Southwick in 2023 and 2024. Early last year, the family of student Skyla Lopez filed a federal civil rights complaint, after her daughter was allegedly targeted in a mock slave auction conducted online by classmates at Southwick Regional School. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident, which circulated on Snapchat, sparked outrage in the community and led to criminal charges against six students and drew condemnation from civil rights advocates, including the NAACP of Greater Springfield. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education later found that the district failed to properly investigate and respond to multiple racist incidents, violating Title IX regulations. The state has since ordered the district to revise its bullying policies and improve its procedures for handling discrimination complaints. The Southwick-Tolland-Granville district serves preschool through grade 12; about 88.9% of students are white, and 1.3% of students are Black. Read the original article on MassLive. AUSTIN (KXAN) Recent excessive rainfall and flooding caused Lake Travis and Lake Buchanan to rise significantly over the last several weeks. Lake Buchanan and Lake Travis are the two major water supply reservoirs for Central Texas. Lake Buchanan has already reached full with any excess water into Lake Buchanan being passed through and downstream into Lake Travis, which still has room for more water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of this writing, Lake Travis is 91% full, roughly 6.5 feet below full. Lake Travis is considered full when the water rises to an elevation of 681 feet above sea level. But what happens if Lake Travis reaches full? Lake Travis forecast levels determines releases When Lake Travis isnt full, meaning the water levels are below 681 feet above sea level, LCRA doesnt need to release additional water from Mansfield Dam, except to maintain water level interests along the Colorado River below Lake Travis (ecological, state required minimum flows, City of Austin water supply, other water consumers downstream). Mansfield Dam When Lake Travis is full, that means the conservation pool has reached its limit, but theres still a lot of room for additional water until the lake cant hold any more water. The additional space where runoff is contained within Lake Travis is known as the flood pool, which is everything on top of the conservation pool. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LCRA has planned flood operations for Mansfield Dam that stipulate how much water would be released under what circumstances when Lake Travis is forecast to rise above 681 feet full. 681-683 feet : When Lake Travis is forecast to reach levels between 681-683 feet above sea level, LCRA are allowed to release up to 7,500 cubic feet per second (cfs.) of water downstream as long as the water level and flow rate remain below certain specified amounts at three sites: Austin, Bastrop and Columbus. 683-710 feet: When Lake Travis is forecast to reach levels between 683-710 feet above sea level, LCRA are allowed to release water more quickly. These releases may reach up to 30,000 cfs. of water downstream as long as the water stages and the stream flow remain below certain specific levels at certain locations along the Colorado River in Austin, Bastrop and Columbus. 710-714 feet: When Lake Travis is forecast to reach levels between 710-714 feet above sea level, LCRA are allowed to release water even more quickly. These releases may reach up to 50,000 cfs. of water downstream as long as the stream flow remains below 50,000 cfs. at certain locations along the Colorado River in Austin, Bastrop and Columbus. The top of the Mansfield Dam spillway is 714 feet above sea level. Once the water level is forecast to reach above the level of the spillway, it becomes more critical to release water to protect the safety of the dam. Mansfield Dam 714-722 feet: When Lake Travis is forecast to reach levels between 714-722 feet above sea level, LCRA are allowed to release up to 90,000 cfs. regardless of the impact to the water stage or stream flow at those downstream sites in Austin, Bastrop and Columbus. 722-754 feet: When Lake Travis is forecast to reach levels from 722-754 feet (top of Mansfield Dam), LCRA may release as much water as is needed to maintain the safety of the dam. Lake Travis by the numbers (Image: LCRA) When might Lake Travis reach full? Back on July 1, before heavy rain caused historic flooding and runoff to significantly boost our lake levels, LCRA released their lake level forecasts for Lake Travis based on a variety of scenarios. Lake Travis water level projections under varying conditions released on July 1 (pre-flood) by LCRA (Image: LCRA) Clearly, reality exceeded even the 25th percentile of wet conditions with current levels of Lake Travis close to 675 feet above sea level. A new Lake Travis water level projection will be released in the beginning of August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What we can learn from their July 1 forecast, however, is that median conditions during the summer cause Lake Travis to dip slightly or plateau followed by a rise in the fall and winter. This rise is due to less irrigation demand in the cooler months and the expected return of our second wet season from late summer into the fall. We can use this original forecast to suggest that under median conditions for the rest of the summer into the fall would cause Lake Travis to rise to full by the end of December. Anything wetter than median conditions (50th percentile) would cause Lake Travis to reach full earlier than that. In-Depth: The Lake Travis flood pool Unlike Lake Travis, Lake Buchanan does not have a flood pool, so water is released downstream when Lake Buchanan is forecast to reach full, which is 1020 feet of elevation above sea level. The flood pool of Lake Travis isnt there to store water ahead of drought, but to protect Austin and other communities downstream by slowing down the release of water into the Colorado River. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Lake Travis didnt have a flood pool and was already full during another flooding event, then water would head down the Colorado River in a less controlled way and put a significant risk to life and property downstream including in Austin and other cities that sit along the Colorado River. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) Happy Valley saw millions of visitors in 2024, but there is still room to improve tourism within the county. The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB) released the results of the Longwoods International study, costing $25,000. The report revealed the county welcomed 5.1 million visitors in 2024. The good news was that we had an increase in visitors, Fritz Smith, CEO of the HVAB, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Centre County drivers frustrated with PennDOT after cars damaged during roadwork The data show a change in visitor demographics. More solo, couple and friend groups made the trip to Happy Valley, but there was a decrease in those traveling with children. Visitors are also coming from more places than just Pennsylvania. We saw an increase in visitation from the New York state and New York City metropolitan area, as well as Pittsburgh, Smith said. So seeing increases in those places was very much part of our marketing strategy, part of our marketing goals. Within the report, Smith noticed an area for improvement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An area that we really could improve in is art and cultural driven visitation, Smith said. We are indexing below the rest of the United States in that area. That is despite some large cultural events that draw hundreds, like the Grange Fair and Arts Fest. To fix the issue moving forward, Smith said he was recently in talks with the Eisenhower Theater to help them with strategic planning for the next three years. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. The next visitation report is expected in June 2026. To read the full report when it goes up, visit the adventure bureaus website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. During winter, water is pumped from wells north of Wray for delivery into the North Fork of the Republican at the Nebraska state line. (Allen Best/Big Pivots) This story is the first part of a four-part series about three groundwater basins in Colorado. It was originally published by Big Pivots. The story was commissioned by Water Education Colorado and a version of it appears in the summer 2025 issue of Headwaters magazine. To understand the predicament in the Republican River Basin of eastern Colorado, you need to appreciate the volume of water being hoisted from the underlying High Plains Aquifer. The most important component is the Ogallala. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Farmers and the few small towns in the Republican River Basin average 720,000 acre-feet of withdrawals annually. In one hot and dry year, 2012, they pumped 940,000 acre-feet. As a point of reference, Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest water body in the state, can hold 947,435 acre-feet. Groundwater mining cannot be sustained far into the future in many areas of the Republican River Basin. Wells in some areas have not declined while wells in other areas have declined 13 feet during the last decade. Pumping at existing rates cannot be maintained. Within 25 years, about a third of land thats now irrigated will have no water. In other places, pumps already sputter. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Sustainable and pumping do not belong in the same sentence in this basin. The water of the Republican River Basin in the High Plains Aquifer accumulated from 18 to 4 million years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Far from the snowmelt of the Rocky Mountains, it is recharged by minimal surface water. Based on studies, the Republican River Compact of Colorado, Nebraska and Kansas assumes that 17% of the water on the surface trickles down through the ground to the aquifers. So, only very slowly is the aquifer recharged. Its mostly an ancient bank account with now small, almost tiny deposits and fast-and-furious withdrawals. The Republican River Basin and several other regions of the state rely largely on groundwater. In a 2024 decision, Colorado Supreme Court justices pointed out that it would be difficult to overstate the importance of groundwater given the states population and arid climate. The 285,000 wells poked into the earth across the state deliver 18% of Colorados water. The Republican River Basin, the San Luis Valley, and the south metro area of the Denver Basin are all, to varying degrees, rethinking water both its sources and uses. All three have historically relied heavily on groundwater, and all have made at least limited progress in shifting toward more sustainable groundwater use in the last 20 years. The cities have adopted policies that foster smaller, less water-intensive lawns. They have diversified their sources. Two south-metro water utilities that 20 years ago pulled nearly all their water from wells, today have lessened that dependency to 60% to 65%. Farmers in the Republican River Basin and San Luis Valley have somewhat different challenges. They have taken action to use less water and to save their communities, but whether those actions match the scale of the challenges they face is another matter. Changes can best be achieved before emergency sirens wail. In the Republican River Basin, some already see a swirl of red lights warning of catastrophe ahead. Its going fast The Republican River Basin consists of 7,000 square miles, an area slightly smaller than New Jersey. It is largely located within a triangle between Julesburg, Limon and Cheyenne Wells. A few businesses cater to travelers but agriculture constitutes nearly all of the basins economic foundation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An average 17 inches of precipitation falls per year across the basin, less in some areas. High-dollar agriculture depends almost entirely upon water drawn from the Ogallala. A 2010 state report found that of the basins 600,000 acres then under irrigation, only 1,000 were supplied by surface water. Locals suggest the true number is far, far less. Dryland farming prevailed until the arrival of high-capacity pumps and rural electrification in the late 1940s. Farmers in the 1950s began converting dryland areas to irrigation, dramatically expanding crop yields. Other farmers arrived to plow hitherto virgin turf. Twice in the 1970s, groundwater extraction exceeded a million acre-feet per year. Drafting of groundwater via 5,000 wells today produces a bounty of herbaceous crops. Most end up in the bellies of livestock. Two feedlots near Yuma alone can each hold more than 150,000 cattle and several others can accommodate 75,000. The basin also has three hog farms, several dairies, and an ethanol plant. (Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment) In 1942, Colorado, Nebraska and Kansas allocated the waters of the Republican River and its tributaries in an interstate compact. The state engineer in 1973 ordered a moratorium on new wells. The most powerful limitation did not come until 1990. Rules were changed, reducing the allowed rate of depletion, effectively precluding new well permits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Existing wells, however, were drawing down the aquifers in the Republican River Basin. Kansas in the 1990s complained that it was getting shorted by Nebraska. Nebraska in turn blamed Colorado. A 2002 settlement stipulation among the three states represented a new line in the sand. By whatever means, Colorado had to figure out how to deliver water to the downriver states. Colorado responded by forming the Republican River Water Conservation District. In effect, the state gave farmers and others in the eight-county district responsibility for figuring out how to comply with the compact. To help achieve compliance, legislators gave the district authority to levy fees on irrigators. The fee, originally $5 per acre, has been boosted twice and is now $30 per acre annually. This $15 million in annual revenue is used in several ways. An early project was a pipeline to boost the amount of water flowing into Nebraska. The pipeline carries water from eight wells previously used for irrigation. They had been drilled amid hills with sugar-like sand between Wray and Holyoke in the deepest part of the aquifer. The water from these wells flows 12.6 miles through the pipeline and into the North Fork near the Nebraska border. The wells are pumped from October to April, ensuring minimal loss to evaporation or riverine trees or grasses. This pipeline, since its completion in 2012, has allowed Colorado to meet its compact delivery requirements. The cost of the wells, pipeline, and water rights was $72 million. Faced with declining production from these wells, the district in 2025 is planning four more wells and 9.5 miles of pipe at an estimated cost of $14 million to deliver what the compact pledges to Nebraska. With members and staff of the Republican River Water Conservation District looking on, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed a bill in May 2023 that allocated $30 million to be used to retire irrigated acreage as necessary to meet a 2029 deadline. (Office of Gov. Jared Polis) In another move toward compact compliance, Bonny Reservoir, a 165,238 acre-foot impoundment on the South Fork of the Republican, was drained. Prior to the 2011 draining, Bonny had delighted boaters and anglers but lost too much water to evaporation and seepage. Water now flows more efficiently downstream. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More actions were needed to ensure Nebraska and Kansas received their apportioned water. Beginning in 2006, Colorado removed 30,000 to 35,000 acres from irrigation. A multi-state agreement in 2016 specified that Colorado would remove an additional 25,000 acres in the South Fork drainage by 2029. Dick Wolfe, then Colorados state engineer, was asked at the time how this was to be done. He paused a moment, then likened it to getting a haircut: a snip here, a snip there. This snipping of irrigated acreage has been encouraged with financial incentives assembled from pots of local, state and federal funds. The money is delivered via two federal programs: the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP), and the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). The latter allows farmers to use the land for dryland farming or grazing. By early 2025, the Republican River Water Conservation District had retired 17,120 of the 25,000 acres as required by the 2016 settlement. It was a milestone, a time for momentary celebration. The harder work lies ahead. Nearly 8,000 additional acres must be retired to meet the December 2029 deadline. If the goal is not met, the state engineer has authority to shut down wells. Nobody wants that, least of all the state engineer. To help sweeten the incentives in 2025, state legislators appropriated $6 million. This adds $750 to the $4,500 per acre paid to farmers participating in CREP and $750 to the $3,500 per acre in EQIP. By June 2025, Bonny Reservoir in Yuma County had a forest of trees, but the water that had drawn boaters and anglers was drained in 2011. (Allen Best/Big Pivots) Using less water is the paramount challenge. This has been accomplished almost exclusively by taking land out of irrigation. There are other ways, too. Today, corn is king, responsible for about 85% of irrigated acres in the basin. It commonly receives 20 to 22 inches of supplemental water. A growing realization of late has been that less can be more. Planting fewer seeds say 18,000 per acre instead of 30,000 will save money and require less fertilizer. Fewer seeds will then require only 12 to 14 inches of supplemental water, meaning less pumping and shaving electricity bills. Lower crop yields can counterintuitively produce better profit margins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conversations are also underway about water-conserving crop alternatives: milo, millet and wheat, kidney and pinto beans, even black-eyed peas. Its partly a matter of developing markets. Deb Daniel, the general manager of the district since 2011, has been toying with how to emphasize productivity strategies with the phrase crop per drop. None of this adds up to the scale of the challenge, though. Most of the water in the Republican River comes from the aquifers, and by Wray theres little in the river. (Allen Best/Big Pivots) Kenny Helling, a fourth-generation farmer from the Idalia area of Yuma County, believes more is needed than financial incentives to take land out of production. Continuing to throw money at the problem wont fix the problem, he says. Ways must be found to keep land in irrigation, because irrigated land pays more in property taxes. Those taxes are crucial for operating fire departments, schools and other community purposes. Its a very big concern to me. The answers? Helling sees value in permits specifying reduced volume of pumped water. He would like to see more crop rotation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Helling was a member of the Republican River Water Conservation District Board of Directors for nine years. He says the district needs other tools. The true authority for limiting pumping belongs to the eight groundwater subdistricts within the basin. They do not use it. Why? Everybody on those groundwater management districts are generally irrigators, says Helling. Most of them are neighbors. A lot of them go to church together. A lot of them might have kids and grandkids in school together. Nobody wants to make anybody mad. And so, unfortunately, the groundwater management districts do not use all the authority they could to restrict the amount of water used. Colorado legislators, he says, need to give the Republican River Water Conservation District more authority. It needs sticks, not just carrots. We need to use less water. Tim Pautler told members of the Colorado Groundwater Commission something similar in May 2025. A dryland farmer from the Stratton area, he has served on the Republican River Water Conservation Districts Board of Directors for 21 years. He says that the board has accomplished almost no basin-wide conservation. It hasnt figured out how to substantially reduce water use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most landowners who have taken advantage of the incentives have been irrigators who have less groundwater available in their wells nearly all in the southwestern portion of the basin, where many wells were already sputtering. He says if reduced water use is the goal, the fees charged to farmers must be based on acre-feet of water pumped and not just on irrigated acres. Theres no pretense of sustainability in the Republican River Basin. The water deposited over millions of years is now being mined. The task is to maximize value of the remaining water, to prolong the availability of the High Plains Aquifer. Few have yet been willing to talk about the gravity of the challenge. I hope enough water remains in the hole to sustain society, says Pautler. I hope we dont go completely dry. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The mother of Harmony Montgomery has filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against the 5-year-year olds father, Adam, who is serving 56 years to life in prison after being convicted last year for beating the little girl to death. Crystal Sorey filed the suit Monday after reaching a $2.25 million settlement with the state in another lawsuit in which she accused the Division for Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) of failing to protect Harmony. The settlement includes no admission of wrongdoing by the state. Harmony Montgomery Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harmony Montgomery The new complaint, filed in Hillsborough County Superior Court, seeks damages against Montgomery for intentionally causing Harmonys death and for his abuse and neglect since he was granted custody of Harmony in February 2019 by a Massachusetts judge. The suit calls for lost income and earning capacity during her probable working life had she survived, and enhanced compensatory damages for the wanton, malicious, and oppressive conduct in the defendant intentionally caused Harmony abuse and neglect and death. Adam Montgomery is incarcerated in a Virginia prison, according to the suit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collecting any money awarded will be a challenge, said Jesse ONeill, an associate with McLane Middleton. As far as I know, he didnt have much money, said ONeill, who was a prosecutor on the case before he left the Attorney Generals Office. They were evicted when he wasnt paying for the house they were living in. The suit could also be used to collect payments if any of Montgomerys convictions are overturned as part of an appeal process. It is also unknown if any family member plans to leave money to Montgomery in their estates, ONeill said. Maybe its just for vindication, so that Adam has a number to look at with what he did to Harmony and saying Harmonys life is valued at this many millions of dollars, ONeill said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Money in prison commissary accounts could also be garnished to pay off certain debts. Missing Girl New Hampshire Adam Montgomery During the three-week murder trial in February 2024, prosecutors presented evidence that Adam Montgomery beat Harmony to death after she accidentally wet herself in their car in December 2019. The little girls remains have never been found. Montgomery was convicted of second-degree murder, abuse of a corpse and other charges related to Harmonys death. He was sentenced to 56 years to life on top of a minimum 32-year sentence for prior firearms convictions. In March 2024, a probate judge declared Harmony legally dead and appointed Sorey the sole administrator of the 5-year-old girls estate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for the suit against the state, Sorey had alleged DCYF failed to respond to reports of abuse in the months leading up to her daughters death. Half of the settlement will go directly to Sorey, and the other half used to establish four different irrevocable trusts, likely for Harmonys half-siblings. jphelps@unionleader.com Following the U.S. Department of Homeland Securitys subpoena of Harvard University in July and a notice of inspection that followed Harvard has handed over most employees information submitted through I-9 forms, according to a Tuesday email from the universitys department of human resources. An I-9 form is used as a means of verifying a persons identity and ability to work in the U.S., according to the federal governments website. All employers are required to have I-9 forms for their employees. While the government does not ordinarily ask an employer to disclose all of its employees Form I-9s and their supporting materials, the government may, in its discretion, issue an all-employees request, the Harvard human resources department said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The institution hasnt given the federal government the I-9 forms of students who are currently or were previously employed by the university in student-only positions, according to the email, which was sent to current and former employees. The university is still determining whether it can based on the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, which is the federal student privacy law. In handing over this information, the university is giving the administration the I-9 document and supporting materials completed by the employee, such as copies of documents including employee drivers licenses, social security cards, birth certificates and passports used to verify someones identity. Harvard has requested that the records be securely maintained and not shared outside of the department, according to the email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The subpoena comes after reporting that the Trump administration is upping its scrutiny of I-9 forms, as a potential means of cracking down on the hiring of undocumented workers, according to reporting from the Financial Times. A Harvard spokesperson declined to provide additional comment. The university had previously provided I-9 forms for a few dozen employees in Massachusetts Hall at Harvard, in response to a notice of inspection. The hall is where President Alan Garbers office is. However, a further subpoena clarified that the federal government was looking for information on all current university employees and any person employed by the institution in the past 12 months, the institution said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The subpoena is separate from three other subpoenas issued by DHS over its failure to provide documents concerning the misconduct or criminal actions of foreign students. More Higher Ed Read the original article on MassLive. HASLETT, Mich. (WLNS) After almost a decade of vacancies, redevelopment for the nearly 20 acres of land known as Haslett Village Square is on the horizon. Haslett Village Square. (WLNS) The West Michigan-based developers plan to breathe new life into the space with more jobs, affordable housing, and commercial opportunities. Township officials say it could be a key to the areas economic revitalization. We are really excited that were finally able to close the chapter on this blighted area, said township supervisor Scott Hendrickson. Theres a shortage of housing both in Meridian Township and in the Greater Lansing region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hedrickson says the upcoming project will bring new affordable housing to the community. (Courtesy Meridian Township) (Courtesy Meridian Township) (Courtesy Meridian Township) There will be about 200 housing units coming in, some of them being apartments and multifamily, some of them being owner-occupied townhomes, which were very excited about, said Hendrickson. The village will also offer workforce housing, which Hendrickson says is dedicated to those making 80% to 120% of the area median income. Basically guarantees that there will be more affordable units for folks to come and live in Haslett in our community, said Hendrickson. The property. (WLNS) It wont be just homesHendrickson says there will be plenty of community space and amenities, including restaurants, a dog park, an activity lawn, and a playground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between the businesses and residential spaces, Hendrickson says the project will also bring jobs. There are construction jobs that come with the building of the facilities, said Hendrickson. There will be apartment management that comes along with that, employees at the restaurant, and the other commercial spaces. Haslett Village Square. (WLNS) With all these additions, Hendrickson hopes the township can also invite some new families to the community. We wanna make sure that people are able to move into our community who want to, said Hendrickson. Weve got great school districts and great amenities here in Meridian Township. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the township, developers are aiming to start construction in Fall 2025. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. Felony hate crime charges have been filed against a 38-year-old man who allegedly spray-painted three buildings in Little Village with swastikas and ICE rules graffiti earlier this month, police announced Monday. Philip Dominguez, of Little Village, faces five felony counts of a hate crime alongside multiple charges of criminal damage to property, according to Chicago police. The Tribune reported that he was in custody Sunday after he saw still surveillance images of himself in media reports related to the graffiti and turned himself in to authorities. Owners of the grocery store La Fruteria and the staff at two community organizations in Little Village found their buildings vandalized between July 19 and 20. Police released images and a description of the suspect late Friday. Surveillance cameras showed he had short black hair and wore a black T-shirt with four squared logos on the front, blue denim pants and black gym shoes with white soles, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dominguez was arrested just before 5 p.m. Saturday in the 2400 block of South Springfield Avenue in Little Village, police said. Dominguez is due to appear in court for a detention hearing Tuesday. tkenny@chicagotribune.com HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WHLT) A man and a woman have been charged in connection to a felony child neglect investigation, according to Hattiesburg police. Officers responded to the 1600 block of West Pine Street around 7:30 p.m. on July 22. They received a report from the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) regarding a two-year-old child. Walter Armstrong (Courtesy: Hattiesburg Police Dept.) Madison Simmons (Courtesy: Forrest County Jail) After an investigation, police arrested Walter Armstrong, 36, and Madison Simmons, 22. They were both charged with one count of felony neglect of a child. They were both booked into Forrest County Jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. The Brief Hays County judge launches transportation task force, seeks volunteers This comes after 2024 road bond was thrown out by a judge in June HAYS COUNTY, Texas - Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra has launched a transportation task force after the 2024 road bond was thrown out by a judge in June. Becerra says the task force is "a transparent, balanced effort to help prioritize the road projects that truly serve the public". What you can do Becerra is calling for three volunteers from each of the four county precincts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He says this is to "ensure fair representation across our rural areas, small towns, and growing cities". The volunteers will then work alongside county staff to identify which projects matter most for public safety, emergency response, and long-term infrastructure. Those interested in volunteering can email Becerra. Road bond thrown out by judge The backstory Judge Catherine Mauzy ruled in late June that the Hays County Commissioners Court violated the Texas Open Meetings Act (TOMA) when calling a special election for the road bond. The $440 million bond has now been voided. The bond passed in November with 56 percent of the vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Commissioners Court has also been blocked from taking any actions based on previous voter approval of the bond. Hays County road bond By the numbers The Commissioners Court unanimously approved the road bond election in August 2024. The $440 million bond was meant to pay for nearly 32 projects split into three project types: mobility, safety and regional connectivity. Proposition A would have also added two cents per $100 valuation to the county tax rate, except for people with an over-65 homestead exemption. Road bond lawsuit Timeline The lawsuit was filed in October 2024 and named the county, County Judge Ruben Becerra, commissioners Debbie Ingalsbe, Michelle Cohen and Walt Smith and former commissioner Lon Shell as defendants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shell left the court in December 2024. The original lawsuit alleged that the court called the special election for the road bond "in blatant violation of the Texas Open Meetings Act" and that "the case concerns the failure of a governing body to disclose the subject matter of a proposed vote." The lawsuit says that on Aug. 13, 2024, the court voted to approve an order calling for the bond election, but that the posting language had neglected to disclose the purpose of the bond, the amount or the proposed tax increase. The item had also been posted under the "Miscellaneous" section of the public notice agenda. "Generally, all public postings for the Commissioners Court's agendas have a standard format to ensure the public is given notice about what is being discussed, grouping the agenda into categories; ROADS being a major category on each Commissioners Court agenda posting," the lawsuit reads, adding that all three relevant postings for the bond (July 2, August 6 and August 13) were put under Miscellaneous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit alleged that by placing these notices under Miscellaneous, the public was "misled and not informed about the subject matter of the vote" and that "few people, outside the Commissioners Court and its road building advisors were aware that a road bond package for the November 2024 election was under consideration." The lawsuit also stated that many of the road projects outlined in the bond package had been "actively opposed" by residents and property owners for many years and would: Require eminent domain of private property and homes for construction Harm and divide neighborhoods with pavement, noise and light pollution Increase traffic speeds and congestion and make roads more dangerous Risk the quality and quantity of groundwater due to potential impact to Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Build new "greenfield" roads and/or expand roads designed primarily to serve developers with taxpayer-funded access roads The Source Information in this report comes from Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra and previous reporting. BEIJING (AP) Almost a year's worth of rain caused flooding and landslides that washed away cars, forced evacuations and knocked out power around the Chinese capital, killing at least 38 people by Tuesday and rescue and relief work continued. The flood risk for parts of Beijing, Hebei province and neighboring Tianjin city remained high until Tuesday evening. State media broadcast footage of muddy waters rising into homes in rural areas and rescuers carrying an injured person on a stretcher and searching on a damaged road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Premier Li Qiang said the heavy rain and flooding in the hard-hit Beijing district of Miyun caused serious casualties and called for rescue efforts, according to the Xinhua News Agency. The Beijing Daily, a state-backed paper, reported that the city had received 54.3 centimeters (21.4 inches) of rain in the last four days, which is just a bit short of the 60 centimeters (23.6 inches) the city receives annually in a year. The storm knocked out power in more than 130 villages in Beijing, destroyed communication lines and damaged more than 30 sections of road. More than 16 centimeters (6 inches) of rain fell on average in Beijing by midnight, with two towns in Miyun recording 54 centimeters (21 inches) of precipitation, the city said. Heavy flooding washed away cars and downed power poles in Miyun, an outlying district that borders Hebeis Luanping county. More than 80,000 people have been relocated in Beijing, including about 17,000 in Miyun, a Beijing city statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city government said 28 people died in Miyun and two others in Yanqing district Monday. Four additional people in neighboring Hebei province were discovered dead Tuesday, state broadcaster CCTV reported, after eight people were said to be missing after a landslide in a rural part of Luanping county in the province. Authorities had found four of the dead Monday. Emergency rescue teams said more landslides occurred in the same region Tuesday, although they did not report any further casualties. Uprooted trees lay in piles in the town of Taishitun, about 100 kilometers (60 miles) northeast of central Beijing. Streets were covered with water, with mud left higher up on the walls of buildings. Heavy rains and flooding have killed at least 30 people in Beijing, after a years worth of rain fell in less than a week, according to state media. Beijing authorities said they have relocated a further 80,000 residents as rain continues. Eight people were also killed in the neighboring Hebei Province, after a landslide struck a rural village, with four others still missing, according to state media. Officials said that all residents of the affected village will be relocated as a safety precaution. Jade Gao/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: An elderly man clears mud in front of a flooded market after heavy rains at Taishitun village in Miyun district, on the outskirts of Beijing on July 28, 2025. The storms dropped more than 6 inches of rain on average across Beijing by midnight Tuesday, with two other towns recording as much as 21 inches of precipitation, according to the Beijing Meteorological Observatory. This has come following a summer of extreme weather across China, with record heat waves in the east and heavy flooding in the southwest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Summer nights are getting warmer due to climate change, sparking health concerns Districts across China have been evacuated, with state media reporting that in Beijing's Mentougou District about 15,000 people have been evacuated, with all major tourist sites closed. In the Pinggu District, more than 12,800 people have been relocated, with authorities setting up 40 emergency shelters in gyms, schools, hotels and village offices, officials told state media. Jade Gao/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: Residents ride on a front loader to cross a flooded street after heavy rains at Taishitun village in Miyun district, on the outskirts of Beijing on July 28, 2025. MORE: Climate and environment updates: Plummeting satellites could alter Earths atmosphere State media reported that 34 teams, involving over 1,000 personnel have been deployed for flood response in the Pinggu region, which is about 44 miles northeast of Beijing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the disaster, President Xi Jinping urged all-out efforts to ensure the safety of residents and property, saying: "Emergency response must be activated and carried out at the earliest possible moment to fully protect people's lives and property." Adek Berry/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: A woman walks past damaged cars in a flooded neighbourhood in Miyun district, northern Beijing on July 29, 2025. The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Emergency Management on Tuesday allocated 350 million yuan, or about $47 million, in central government disaster relief funds to nine provincial-level regions. The rainstorm alert in the capital was cancelled Tuesday as the rain shifted eastward, although the city remains on its highest level of flood control emergency response, according to state media. Showers were still forecast through the afternoon and into the evening. Heavy rain killed more than 30 people and forced authorities to evacuate tens of thousands as swaths of northern China were lashed by torrential downpours that sparked landslides and flooding, state media said Tuesday. Weather authorities have issued their second-highest rainstorm warning for the capital Beijing, neighbouring Hebei and Tianjin, as well as 10 other provinces, state news agency Xinhua said. The rains are expected to last into Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The heavy rainstorms had left 30 people dead in Beijing as of midnight Monday, Xinhua said, citing flood control authorities. More than 80,000 people have been evacuated in the capital alone, according to state-run Beijing Daily. The death toll was highest in Miyun, a northeastern suburb, it said. "This time the rain was unusually heavy, it's not normally like this," a Miyun resident surnamed Jiang told AFP as water streamed down the road outside her house. "The road is full of water so people aren't going to work," she said. In Xinanzhuang village, AFP journalists saw murky water had submerged homes, cars and a road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A local man in his sixties said he had never seen water levels so high. - Record floods - Nearby, torrents of water gushed from spillways in the Miyun Reservoir, which authorities said reached its highest levels since its construction in 1959. Beijing's northern Huairou district and southwestern Fangshan were also badly affected, state media said. Dozens of roads have been closed and over 130 villages have lost electricity, Beijing Daily said. "Please pay attention to weather forecasts and warnings and do not go to risk areas unless necessary," the outlet said. More than 10,000 people also evacuated their homes in the neighbouring port city of Tianjin, which saw major flash floods, according to state-owned nationalist tabloid Global Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And in Hebei province, which encircles Beijing, a landslide in a village killed eight people, with four still missing, state broadcaster CCTV said Tuesday. The army was mobilised to help disaster relief operations, the channel said. CCTV footage showed soldiers in orange life vests bringing supplies including bottled water, carrying people on stretchers, and clearing debris from roads. Social media users online shared anxious accounts of being unable to reach family members in Hebei's mountainous Xinglong county. Mudslides and floods forced more than 8,000 people to evacuate, while rescuers were still attempting to reach some villages that had "lost contact", China National Radio said Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local authorities have issued flash flood warnings through Tuesday evening, with the city of Chengde and surrounding areas under the highest alert, Hebei's radio and television station said. - 'All-out efforts' - Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on authorities to plan for worst-case scenarios and relocate residents of flood-threatened areas. The government and Communist Party have collectively allocated around 490 million yuan ($68 million) for disaster relief in nine regions hit by heavy rains, CCTV said. Another 200 million yuan will be allocated for the capital. In 2023, heavy rain killed more than 80 people across northern and northeastern China, including at least 29 people in Hebei where severe flooding destroyed homes and crops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some reports had suggested the province shouldered the burden of a government decision to divert the deluge away from Beijing. Natural disasters are common across China, particularly in the summer when some regions experience heavy rain while others bake in searing heat. China is the world's biggest emitter of the greenhouse gases that drive climate change and contribute to making extreme weather more frequent and intense. But it is also a global renewable energy powerhouse that aims to make its massive economy carbon-neutral by 2060. bur-mya-isk/dhw A helicopter has crashed into a river near the town of Grimma in eastern Germany, a spokesman for local firefighters said on Tuesday. Nothing is known about any victims so far, the spokesman for the fire brigade association of the Leipzig district said. The helicopter disappeared between 10 and 10:30 am (0800-0830 GMT), the spokesman cited air-traffic control as saying. Paddlers found debris in the Mulde river around noon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The spokesman did not want to comment on which organization the helicopter belongs to. The Bild newspaper reported that the German Armed Forces are missing a helicopter and the pilot. The Ministry of Defence initially did not provide any information on this. Large quantities of kerosene have leaked at the scene of the crash. The wreck is lying in the middle of the river and is difficult to access, the fire brigade spokesman told dpa. Some 50 emergency personnel are on site to clear up the kerosene first and then begin the recovery, he said. Four people were killed and a fifth was injured in a mass shooting at a Midtown Manhattan office building on Monday. The injured victim was an employee at the NFL, according to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. Here's what we know about the four people killed: MORE: Manhattan shooting suspect claimed to have CTE, mentioned NFL in note, sources say Officer Didarul Islam Didarul Islam, 36, was an off-duty New York City police officer assigned to a Bronx precinct, New York City Mayor Eric Adams said. NYPD/Reuters - PHOTO: NYPD police officer Didarul Islam, killed in an office building shooting in New York City, July 28, 2025. A Bangladeshi immigrant who joined the NYPD four years ago, Islam is survived by his wife, who is eight months pregnant, and two young sons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was doing the job that we asked him to do," New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. "He put himself in harm's way. He made the ultimate sacrifice, shot in cold blood, wearing a uniform that stood for the promise that he made to this city. He died as he lived -- a hero." Eric Adams/X via Reuters - PHOTO: New York Mayor Eric Adams attends dignified transfer of slain NYPD officer Didarul Islam, who was killed during a mass shooting in Midtown Manhattan, in New York City, July 29, 2025. Angelina Katsanis/AP - PHOTO: NYPD officers bring out the body of Didarul Islam, who was shot and killed by a gunman earlier this evening, out of NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Hospital, July 29, 2025, in New York. "Didarul Islam represented the very best of our department. He was protecting New Yorkers from danger when his life was tragically cut short," the NYPD said. "We join in prayer during this time of incomprehensible pain. We will forever honor his legacy." "We will always remember the sacrifice officer Islam, a husband, a son and father, made for all of us," Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said on Tuesday. "To the other victims -- people just trying to make a living, do their jobs -- our hearts are broken, and we, too, grieve with your families." NYPD officers lined the streets in New York City on Monday evening to participate in the transfer of the body of Didarul Islam, an officer who was killed during a mass shooting at a Midtown Manhattan office building. Read more: https://t.co/R7RzVTDNTj pic.twitter.com/mBW9vgHxyL ABC News (@ABC) July 29, 2025 Wesley LePatner Wesley LePatner, a Blackstone employee, wife and mom of two, was also killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was the global head of Core+ Real Estate and the chief executive officer of Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust. Blackstone - PHOTO: Manhattan office shooting victim Wesley LePatner was a Senior Managing Director at Blackstone. LePatner spent over a decade at Goldman Sachs before joining Blackstone in 2014. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Yale University, Blackstone said. "Words cannot express the devastation we feel. Wesley was a beloved member of the Blackstone family and will be sorely missed," Blackstone said in a statement. "She was brilliant, passionate, warm, generous, and deeply respected within our firm and beyond." "Our prayers are with her husband, children and family," the company said. "We are also saddened by the loss of the other innocent victims as well, including brave security personnel and NYPD." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: What we know about Shane Devon Tamura, the suspect of the Midtown Manhattan shooting LePatner was also a "beloved" member of the board of directors of the UJA-Federation of New York. "Wesley was extraordinary in every way -- personally, professionally, and philanthropically," the organization said. "An exceptional leader in the financial world, she brought thoughtfulness, vision, and compassion to everything she did. In 2023, we honored her with the Alan C. Greenberg Young Leadership Award at our Wall Street Dinner, recognizing her commitment to our community and her remarkable achievements, all the more notable as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field." "She lived with courage and conviction, instilling in her two children a deep love for Judaism and the Jewish people," the statement continued. "May Wesleys memory be for a blessing -- and a lasting source of strength and inspiration." Aland Etienne Gathmand Etienne - PHOTO: Manhattan office shooting victim, Aland Etienne. Security officer Aland Etienne was also killed, according to his brother, Gathmand Etienne. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He was more than a brother -- he was a father, a son, and a light in our lives," Gathmand Etienne said on social media. "Our hearts are shattered, and were asking for your prayers and strength as we navigate this painful time. Rest in peace, Brother. Youll never be forgotten." MORE: Timeline of Manhattan mass shooting: Suspect Shane Tamura allegedly drove from Nevada to commit attack Union President Manny Pastreich remembered Aland Etienne as a "dedicated security officer who took his job duties extremely seriously." "This tragedy speaks to the sacrifice of security officers who risk their lives every day to keep New Yorkers and our buildings safe," Pastreich said in a statement. "Every time a security officer puts on their uniform, they put their lives on the line. Their contributions to our city are essential, though often unappreciated. Aland Etienne is a New York hero. We will remember him as such." Julia Hyman LinkedIn - PHOTO: Manhattan office shooting victim, Julia Hyman. Julia Hyman was the fourth person killed in Mondays shooting, according to sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She worked as an associate at Rudin Management, according to her LinkedIn, which is located on the 33rd floor of 345 Park Avenue, where the suspect shot his final victim and then died by suicide. "Everyone at our company are devastated by yesterday's senseless tragedy," the Rudin family said in a statement. "We grieve with the families and loved ones of those lost, and we pray for the full recovery of those injured. Hyman is survived by her parents and her sister. In 2020, Hyman graduated summa cum laude from Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration, where she majored in hotel and restaurant management and minored in real estate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hyman had visited Cornell just a few weeks ago to celebrate her five-year reunion, the school said. Cornell dean and professor Kate Walsh remembered Hyman as "an extraordinary student whose academic achievements and intellectual curiosity made a lasting impression." Before Cornell, Hyman attended Riverdale Country School in New York City, where she was a varsity athlete in soccer, swimming and lacrosse. Her classmates and teachers remembered her "heart of gold" and her "modesty and humility, her desire to see others succeed, and her grit and tenacity in the face of adversity," head of school Karis Ostrem said in a statement. "We are simply heartbroken by this loss, and will forever remember Julia for her light, her bright smile and infectious laugh, and the kindness and sense of community that she brought to school every day, Ostrem said. The average one- or two-bedroom rental in Wisconsin is entirely unaffordable to full-time, minimum-wage workers in the state, according to a newly released study by the National Law Income Housing Coalition, a nonprofit working to expand affordable housing. In fact, the study found workers in no U.S. state, county or metropolitan area can comfortably afford a typical two-bedroom rental while making the local minimum wage. The report, compiled annually by the NLIHC, used the average rent costs in each state to calculate how much workers would need to earn to comfortably afford a rental home in their area. An "affordable" rent was defined as less than 30% of a worker's monthly income, which is the generally recommended threshold for housing costs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Wisconsin, the study found a worker needs to earn just over $23 hourly to afford a two-bedroom rental. That's the 35th-highest wage out of the 50 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico. Here's what to know about rent affordability in Wisconsin stacks up against the rest of the country, including how much you need to earn to afford an apartment in Milwaukee. Wisconsinites need to earn more than $23 hourly to afford an average two-bedroom rental, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. How affordable is rent in Wisconsin? Though rent in Wisconsin more affordable than the national average, the typical Wisconsin worker still needs to make several times the current minimum wage to comfortably afford rent, the study found. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Wisconsin is $1,204 and for a one-bedroom, $984. Nationally, it's $1,749 for a two-bedroom and $1,465 for a one-bedroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To afford two-bedroom in Wisconsin without spending more than 30% of their income on housing, a worker must earn $48,149 annually, $4,012 monthly or $23.15 hourly which is more than three times the state's current minimum wage of $7.25. At Wisconsin minimum wage, a renter would need to work 128 hours per week to afford a two-bedroom rental. For a one-bedroom, it's 104 hours per week, or the equivalent of 2.6 full-time jobs, the study found. Meanwhile, an "affordable" rent for a full-time, minimum-wage worker in Wisconsin would be $377. How affordable is rent in the Milwaukee area? Rent in the Milwaukee area is predictably more expensive than the statewide average, the study found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A typical two-bedroom apartment in the Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis area costs $1,257 monthly. To comfortably afford this, a person would need to earn $50,280 annually or $24.17 hourly, or work the equivalent 3.3 full-time, minimum-wage jobs. Within the city of Milwaukee, the numbers vary even more widely from statewide averages. In the 53202 and 53203 zip codes, which covers downtown and the east side, the typical two-bedroom costs $1,890 and one-bedroom, $1,590. A renter would need to earn $30.58 hourly to comfortably afford a one-bedroom rental in these areas, the study reported. Meanwhile, just a few miles away on the south and north sides, the fair market rents for a one-bedroom home are all below $1000. In these areas the 53205, 53233 and 53204 zip codes a renter can comfortably afford a one-bedroom making just over $17 hourly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overall, renters in the greater Milwaukee area earn an average hourly wage of $20.86, the study found. Between 2019 and 2023, the Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis area had more than 257,00 renter households. What is the minimum wage in Wisconsin? Wisconsin is one of 13 states where minimum wage still sits at the federal minimum of $7.25 an hour. Thirty states have passed a wage higher than this into law, including Wisconsin's neighboring states Illinois, Minnesota and Michigan. Seven states have no minimum wage law or a rate lower than the federal wage, meaning the federal rate applies in these states, barring a few exceptions. How many renters are in Wisconsin? Wisconsin has 785,523 renter households, comprising about 32% of all households in the state, according to the study. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of 2025, the average hourly wage among renters in Wisconsin is $18.86 more than double the minimum wage, but still lower than the estimated wage needed to comfortably afford a two-bedroom rental. A three-unit apartment building (center) owned by former Milwaukee Bucks Pat Connaughtons company Three Leaf Partners at 1245 N. Milwaukee St. in Milwaukee on July 8, 2025. How affordable is rent in Madison, Green Bay and other communities? Here's how much you need to earn to comfortably afford rent in other Wisconsin metropolitan areas: Appleton: Typical two-bedroom rent is $1,106 monthly, and hourly wage needed to afford it is $21.27. Eau Claire: Typical two-bedroom rent is $1,092 monthly, and hourly wage needed to afford it is $21. Fond du Lac: Typical two-bedroom rent is $1,074 monthly, and hourly wage needed to afford it is $20.65. Green Bay: Typical two-bedroom rent is $1,147 monthly, and hourly wage needed to afford it is $19.42. Madison: Typical two-bedroom rent is $1,472 monthly, and hourly wage needed to afford it is $28.31. Oshkosh-Neenah: Typical two-bedroom rent is $1,055 monthly, and hourly wage needed to afford it is $20.29. Sheboygan: Typical two-bedroom rent is $1,055 monthly, and hourly wage needed to afford it is $20.29. Wausau: Typical two-bedroom rent is $1,054 monthly, and hourly wage needed to afford it is $20.27. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Here's how much rent costs in Milwaukee, other Wisconsin cities The Queen City might seem like a big small town to people who grew up here. But a new study shows that the Cincinnati metro area is expanding, becoming one of the nation's hotspots for relocation. U-Haul recently released its midyear migration trends report for 2025, which shows the most common cities where people relocated to in the first half of the year, based on U-Haul's one-way rentals data collected between January and July. The study shows Cincinnati is one of the top destinations for people moving within the U.S., yet it also lists Ohio as a top origin state for 11 of the 35 cities examined. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's where new Cincinnati residents are coming from, and where some longtime locals are moving to. Where are new Cincinnati residents coming from? Per the report, Kentucky is the leading origin state for new residents moving to the Cincinnati metro area, followed by Indiana and Florida. Other popular origin states include Tennessee, Michigan, Illinois and more. Here are the top 10 states where new Cincinnati residents are moving from, according to U-Haul: Kentucky Indiana Florida Tennessee Michigan Illinois Texas Georgia North Carolina Pennsylvania Top out-of-state metro areas sending residents to Cincinnati When looking at metro areas, most newcomers are arriving from other nearby cities, with Lexington, Kentucky, topping the list. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are the top 5 U.S. cities outside of Ohio where new Cincinnati residents are moving from, according to U-Haul: Lexington Indianapolis Louisville Chicago Detroit A new study shows that the Cincinnati metro area is expanding, becoming one of the nation's hotspots for relocation. Top Ohio cities sending residents to Cincinnati Cincinnati also draws heavily from these other Ohio cities, according to U-Haul. Columbus Dayton Cleveland Akron Toledo Where are Cincinnatians moving to? While Cincinnati is gaining residents, some locals are heading elsewhere especially to other nearby metros. Per the report, Cincinnati is listed as a common origin city for Cleveland, Columbus and Indianapolis. Where are Ohians moving to? Ohio was the No. 1 origin state for new residents in Detroit and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, according to U-Haul. It was also among the top 10 origin states for these cities: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Atlanta Charlotte, North Carolina Chicago Indianapolis Miami Nashville Philadelphia St. Louis Tampa A new study shows that the Cincinnati metro area is expanding, becoming one of the nation's hotspots for relocation. Contributing: Laura Daniella Sepulveda, The Arizona Republic. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: These 10 states are sending the most new residents to Cincinnati Enough is enough. The former CVS worker cleared in the stabbing death of a violent shoplifter slammed Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg for charging him at all instead of standing up for hardworking New Yorkers. I dont know why he decided to bring the case to me, but I feel like this case shouldnt even go to trial, Scotty Enoe, 48, told The Post in an exclusive interview Monday. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg Jr. at a press conference. Steven Hirsch I feel like theyre trying to put me away for something thats their fault, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a hardworking person, the minute you stand up for yourself, they come after you. Enoe, who lives in Brooklyn, said serial shoplifter Charles Brito never should have been allowed out on the streets, free to harass and threaten Big Apple shoppers and workers. Its the prosecutors fault, he said, because this guy had a record this guy shouldnt even be on the streets to begin with. A former CVS worker cleared in the stabbing death of a violent shoplifter slammed Bragg for charging him at all. Helayne Seidman The native of Grenada, who has lived and worked in New York City since moving to the US in 1996, said he felt he had to put up a fight, shooting down a proposed plea deal and taking the stand in his own defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I had to get my story out there, he said. I had to make them know, Listen, I work two jobs. I wasnt looking for no trouble with anybody. This guy came in and attacked me from out of nowhere. Enoe said he wasnt angry over the two-year nightmare, which ended when a jury acquitted him of manslaughter after less than 30 minutes of deliberations last week in Britos July 2023 death. But the former shelf stocker said he was fed up with New Yorks failing criminal justice system. Portrait of Scotty Enoe in his lawyers office. Stephen Yang People that work in these retail places to make a living, to pay the bills, they get harassed by these kind of people every night, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youre not even safe on the train anymore. Just getting on the train to come to work, its like a problem. Over the years, Enoe said he would even go out of his way to avoid confrontations with aggressive vagrants taking drastic measures like hiding out in a store refrigerator. Sometimes when they come in I had to go inside the cooler and just stay there until they leave, because some of them, if you just watch them too hard, they start getting aggressive, he said. Mugshot of Charles Brito. But Enoe couldnt turn away when Brito, 50, came into the Midtown pharmacy on July 6, 2023, attacked him and threatened two female co-workers, prompting him to jab the homeless man several times with a knife before the crook walked out of the store. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Enoe said he had no idea Brito was mortally wounded until the cops showed up with the officers grilling the worker, who had visible bruises all over his face. It was not a good conversation, he recalled. He didnt even, you know, ask me nothing. He just started saying stuff to me. Things like, Oh, you stabbed someone, you stabbed somebody over CVS goods, fing smart, and all these things. He didnt even ask me what happened. Enoe said serial shoplifter Charles Brito never should have been allowed out on the streets. Helayne Seidman Then came the real blow, when Braggs office charged him with murder in the case. The charge was only reduced later after a grand jury indicted Enoe for manslaughter which still carried the possibility of up to 25 years in prison. I was saying, like, I cant believe that just happened, Enoe remembered, adding CVS fired him a few days after his arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Released on $100,000 bail thanks to his other employer, beverage distributor Big Geyser, Enoe still had to wear a monitoring ankle bracelet, an additional humiliation, he said, after being charged for defending himself. Scotty Enoe, CVS security guard, in court. Steven Hirsch I couldnt go to church, but I still tried to go to church, he said. I talked to the sheriff, to give me a little extra time to go to church. He said prosecutors offered him a plea deal that carried a five-year prison sentence, but Enoe said he and his lawyer, Frank Rothman, shot down the ludicrous offer on the spot. Frank, he was like, What do you want to do? I tell him, We want to go to trial. Were fighting it all the way,' Enoe recalled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And Enoe insisted on taking the stand to tell jurors his story. Scotty Enoe and his lawyer, Frank Rothman, in a law office. Stephen Yang I wasnt even worried about taking the stand. I knew I wasnt gonna let her wipe the floor with me, he said, referring to the assistant district attorney on the case. The Manhattan Supreme Court jury also heard from former co-workers, who described how the serial shoplifter threatened I can kill yall and slammed Enoe against the doors of coolers hed filled with drinks before the bloody melee. Jurors ultimately only found Enoe guilty of a lesser weapons count for possession of brass knuckles, but he is not expected to face any jail time on that conviction. Enoe said prosecutors offered him a plea deal that carried a five-year prison sentence. Steven Hirsch Enoe noted his ordeal left a bitter taste in his mouth, although he wouldnt say if he planned on taking any legal action over the miscarriage of justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont feel anger towards nobody, he said Monday. I just feel relief, happy to go back to work, happy to get back to my life. I feel happy, not angry. Braggs office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Released on $100,000 bail thanks to his other employer, Enoe still had to wear a monitoring ankle bracelet. Stephen Yang The Manhattan DAs conviction rate has plunged every year since he took office in 2021, with just 35% of felony cases 6,871 out of 19,602 crimes ending in convictions last year, state data shows. And those numbers were way down from 2019, the last year before New Yorks woke discovery reform laws took effect, when 64% of felonies resulted in convictions. But some of Braggs prosecution choices have sparked outrage, including his initial decision to charge Harlem bodega worker Jose Alba with murder for fatally stabbing an ex-con who attacked him inside his store. Enoe noted his ordeal left a bitter taste in his mouth, although he wouldnt say if he planned on taking any legal action over the miscarriage of justice. Steven Hirsch The DA eventually dropped the case against Alba following widespread outrage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, straphanger Daniel Penny was also ultimately acquitted at trial in the chokehold death of homeless man Jordan Neely aboard a Manhattan F train on May 1, 2023. Enoe noted the similarities between his case and Pennys, who he said was standing up for the people. Its kind of similar in a way, because this guy, he was on the train, harassing people who are trying to just get to work and make a living. A police officer with a baby on the way, a devoted father of two school-aged children, a top finance executive, and an associate working late at her real estate office are the victims of the shooting attack at a building in a busy district of New York City. Suspected lone gunman Shane Tamura, a 27-year-old from Nevada, also died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, officials said. He had a "documented mental health history", and his potential motive is unknown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's what we know about the victims. Didarul Islam Didarul Islam, 36, was shot dead on Monday while providing security for the site on Park Avenue. Officials said he had migrated to the US from Bangladesh, had two children and was expecting a third with his pregnant wife. He died "a hero", they said. Paying tribute to the late officer, New York Mayor Eric Adams said he was "doing what he does best...saving lives. He was protecting New Yorkers". A post on the New York Police Department (NYPD) account on X said Islam "represented the very best of our department", and said "he was protecting New Yorkers from danger when his life was tragically cut short today". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a news conference on Monday, police commissioner Jessica Tisch said: "He was doing the job that we asked him to do. He put himself in harm's way. He made the ultimate sacrifice." Tisch continued: "He died as he lived - a hero." Mayor Adams said he had met Islam's family after the attack, and expressed his admiration for the late officer, who had served in his job for more than three years. "This was his dad's only son," the mayor said. "I think about Jordan, my child, and it is unimaginable to experience a loss of this magnitude." Wesley LePatner [Getty Images] Wesley LePatner was a senior executive at investment giant Blackstone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She was brilliant, passionate, warm, generous, and deeply respected within our firm and beyond. She embodied the best of Blackstone," the company said. "Words cannot express the devastation we feel." LePatner began at Blackstone in 2014 after previously working at Goldman Sachs in the real estate investment group, according to the company website. She was a Yale University alum, having received a BA in history there in 2003. She served on the boards of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the UJA-Federation of New York, the Abraham Joshua Heschel School and the Yale University Library Council, according to her biography. She left behind two children, including a seventh grader at the school, a statement from the Heschel School said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She was a uniquely brilliant and modest leader and parent, filled with wisdom, empathy, vision, and appreciation," the statement read. "Quite simply, Wesley made the world - and all of the institutions that she touched, including the Heschel School - a better place. We are all diminished today by her absence." Aland Etienne [Facebook] Aland Etienne, 46, was working for McLane Security Inc as an unarmed security guard, CBS, BBC's partner in the US, reported. Etienne, 46, whose family is from Haiti, was working in the building at 345 Park Avenue where the gunman fatally shot him. "Aland, lost his life in the shooting that happened in New York while he was at work. He was more than a brother - he was a father, a son, and a light in our lives," his brother Gathmand Etienne wrote in a post on Facebook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Rest in peace, Brother. You'll never be forgotten." Julia Hyman Julia Hyman, 27, worked at Rudin Management, a long-established real estate company where she was one of the newer employees. Hyman was working late in her office on the 33rd floor when she was fatally shot at random by the gunman, police said. Her LinkedIn profile says Hyman graduated in 2020 from the Cornell Peter and Stephanie Nolan School of Hotel Administration. "Julia was a cherished member of our community, and her loss is deeply felt across the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her during this time of unimaginable grief," the college's dean, Andrew Karolyi, said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Her journey was marked by determination, warmth, and a strong commitment to learning. We grieve this heartbreaking loss and extend our deepest condolences to everyone who was touched by her light," said Kate Walsh, a professor of the Cornell Peter and Stephanie Nolan School of Hotel Administration. ZAPOPAN, Mexico (AP) First the scientists dress dead swine in clothes, then they dispose of the carcasses. Some they wrap in packing tape, others they chop up. They stuff the animals into plastic bags or wrap them in blankets. They cover them in lime or burn them. Some are buried alone, others in groups. Then they watch. The pigs are playing an unlikely role as proxies for humans in research to help find the staggering number of people who have gone missing in Mexico during decades of drug cartel violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Families of the missing are usually left to look for their loved ones with little support from authorities. But now, government scientists are testing the newest satellite, geophysical and biological mapping techniques along with the pigs to offer clues that they hope could lead to the discovery of at least some of the bodies. 130,000 missing and counting The ranks of Mexicos missing exploded in the years following the launch of then-President Felipe Calderons war against drug cartels in 2006. A strategy that targeted the leaders of a handful of powerful cartels led to a splintering of organized crime and the multiplication of violence to control territory. With near complete impunity, owing to the complicity or inaction of the authorities, cartels found that making anyone they think is in their way disappear was better than leaving bodies in the street. Mexican administrations have sometimes been unwilling to recognize the problem and at other times are staggered by the scale of violence their justice system is unprepared to address. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mexicos disappeared could populate a small city. Official data in 2013 tallied 26,000 missing, but the count now surpasses 130,000 more than any other Latin American nation. The United Nations has said there are indications that the disappearances are generalized or systematic. If the missing people are found dead or alive it is usually by their loved ones. Guided by information from witnesses, parents and siblings search for graves by walking through cartel territory, plunging a metal rod into the earth and sniffing for the scent of death. Around 6,000 clandestine graves have been found since 2007, and new discoveries are made all the time. Tens of thousands of remains have yet to be identified. Testing creative solutions Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jalisco, which is home to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, has the largest number of people reported missing in Mexico: 15,500. In March, human bone fragments and hundreds of items of clothing were discovered at a cartel ranch in the state. Authorities denied it was the site of a mass grave. Jose Luis Silvan, a coordinator of the mapping project and scientist at CentroGeo, a federal research institute focused on geospacial information, said Jaliscos disappeared are why were here. The mapping project, launched in 2023, is a collaboration by Guadalajara University, Mexicos National Autonomous University and the University of Oxford in England, alongside the Jalisco Search Commission, a state agency that organizes local searches with relatives. No other country is pushing so strongly, so creatively" to test and combine new techniques, said Derek Congram, a Canadian forensic anthropologist, whose expertise in geographic information systems inspired the Mexican project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Congram warns, technology is not a panacea. Ninety percent of searches are resolved with a good witness and digging, he said. Plants, insects and decomposing pigs Silvan walks by a site where scientists buried 14 pigs about two years ago. He says they may not know how well the technology works, where and when it can be used, or under what conditions, for at least three years. Flowers came up because of the phosphorous at the surface, we didnt see that last year, he said as he took measurements at one of the gravesites. The mothers who search say that that little yellow flower always blooms over the tombs and they use them as a guide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pigs and humans are closely related, famously sharing about 98% of DNA. But for the mapping project, the physical similarities also matter. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, pigs resemble humans in size, fat distribution and the structure and thickness of skin. A big Colombian drone mounted with a hyperspectral camera flies over the pig burial site. Generally used by mining companies, the camera measures light reflected by substances in the soil, including nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and shows how they vary as the pigs decompose. The colorful image it produces offers clues of what to look for in the hunt for graves. This isnt pure science, Silvan said. It is science and action. Everything learned has to be applied immediately, rather than wait for it to mature, because theres urgency. Researchers also employ thermal drones, laser scanners and other gadgets to register anomalies, underground movements and electrical currents. One set of graves is encased behind a pane of transparent acrylic, providing a window for scientists to observe the pigs decomposition in real time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Jalisco commission compares and analyzes flies, beetles, plants and soil recovered from the human and pig graves. Each grave is a living micro ecosystem, said Tunuari Chavez, the commission's director of context analysis. Science to serve society Triggered by the disappearance of 43 students in 2014, Silvan and his colleagues started gathering information about ground-penetrating radar, electric resistivity and satellite imagery from around the world. They studied University of Tennessee research on human corpses buried at a body farm. They looked at grave-mapping techniques used in the Balkans, Colombia and Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What good is science or technology if it doesnt solve problems? he said. They learned new applications of satellite analysis, then began their first experiments burying pigs and studying the substances criminals use to dispose of bodies. They found lime is easily detected, but hydrocarbons, hydrochloric acid and burned flesh are not. Chavezs team worked to combine the science with what they knew about how the cartels operate. For example, they determined that disappearances in Jalisco commonly happened along cartel routes between Pacific ports, drug manufacturing facilities and the U.S. border, and that most of the missing are found in the same municipality where they disappeared. Expert relatives Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The experience of the families of the missing also informs the research. Some observed that graves are often found under trees whose roots grow vertically, so those digging the graves can remain in the shade. Mothers of missing loved ones invited by researchers to visit one of the pig burial sites were able to identify most of the unmarked graves by sight alone, because of the plants and soil placement, Silvan said. The knowledge flows in both directions, he said. Maribel Cedeno, who has been looking for her missing brother for four years, said she believes the drones and other technology will be helpful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I never imagined being in this situation, finding bodies, becoming such an expert, she said of her quest. Hector Flores has been searching for his son since 2021. He questions why so much time and effort has been invested in methods that have not led to concrete discoveries, when the families have proven track records with little official support. Although the research has not yet concluded, the Jalisco Search Commission is already using a thermal drone, a laser scanner and a multispectral camera to help families look for their missing relatives in some cases. But it is unclear whether authorities across Mexico will ever be willing to use, or able to afford, the high-tech aides. Congram, the forensic scientist, said researchers are aware of the limitations of technology, but that you always have to try, fail, fail again and keep trying. Authorities are investigating the death of a 29-year-old woman who was fatally struck by a tree limb while hiking through a grove of sequoia trees in Yosemite National Park. Angela Lin was hit by a wayward branch on July 19, according to the Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office. Lin, who grew up in Los Angeles County, worked as a software engineer for Google, according to news reports and social media posts. A sheriff's deputy responded to Tuolumne Grove shortly before 6 p.m. to take possession of the body and help with the investigation. Autopsy results show her death was accidental, resulting from blunt injuries, the Sheriff's Office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A National Park Service spokesperson said the incident was under investigation, but did not provide any additional details. SFGate reported the incident occurred about a mile from the parking lot in Tuolumne Grove. Lin's partner, David Hua, told the news outlet that they heard a loud cracking sound from above before a tree limb fell onto her. She was knocked to the ground and never regained consciousness, Hua told the outlet. He called 911 and performed CPR on her until a park ranger arrived. An ambulance arrived shortly after, but paramedics did not take her. Hua said that she died at the scene of the accident, surrounded by the giant sequoias that line the hiking trail. Lin lived in Mountain View, attended the University of Texas at Austin and grew up in Los Angeles County, according to a memorial page set up for her funeral services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tuolumne Grove is home to about two dozen mature giant sequoias and is a popular destination in the park. The area was temporarily closed after the incident, park officials said. Historically, Yosemite National Park has seen a few fatal incidents every year. In September, the body of a 61-year-old hiker was found in the park after he did not return from a solo hike around Ostrander Lake, about 30 miles south of Tuolumne Grove. In July 2024, a 20-year-old woman died when she lost her footing on the cable suspension system on Half Dome and fell about 200 feet. Half Dome is about 18 miles east of Tuolumne Grove. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March, an unidentified woman was found wounded inside a facility at the park. Officials did not provide any details at the time surrounding her identity and she later died at a Fresno County hospital. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. HONOLULU (KHON2) With hiking being one of the most popular activities on the Hawaiian islands, and the summer months bringing a high for tourism, its no surprise to see trails like Koko Head, Diamond Head, and hikes all across the islands as crowded as ever. Plan ahead: HFD urge caution after multiple hiker rescues However, this also comes with more injuries. According to the Honolulu Fire Department, there are now 31 hiking-related rescues from the month of July alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Injuries can run from anything, said Captain Jaimie Song of the Honolulu Fire Department. A sprained ankle to something a little bit more serious, like if you go off the trail and maybe you fall. There are many factors that could cause a hiking-related injury. Heat and humidity, inexperience, lack of water, or a combination. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Song also believes that the uptick is a product of having more hikers in general. Theres just a lot more people in the summertime that are getting outside and out on the trails, whether its locals that might be on break from school or tourists, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the increase is unfortunate, Song also said that its not unusual, as its fairly standard for an increase in hiking injuries during the summer months. However, this does not mean its unpreventable. There are a variety of ways to ensure that a hike remains fun and productive, and does not end with a 911 call. Wear the right clothes so you can sweat and be comfortable, said Shane Anzai, a UH Manoa student and frequent Koko Head hiker. Know the trail, maybe do some research behind it, and number one thing is be confident. By being equipped to hike properly, the risk goes down significantly, and people can best enjoy one of Hawaiis best activities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Check out more news from around Hawaii At the end of the day, were grateful that folks are visiting our island and participating in all of the outdoor activities that this beautiful island has to offer, said Song. We dont want to discourage people from getting outside and being active. We just want them to do so in a safe manner. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. It was standing room only as the Renaissance Festival royalty made their entrance for a jousting event at the festival on Sunday, July 13, 2025. German historian and essayist Karl Schlogel has been awarded the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade. Schlogel was one of the first Eastern Europe experts to warn of Russian President Vladimir Putin's aggressive expansionist policy, the jury said. "His enduring message is both clear and urgent: Without a free Ukraine, there can be no peace in Europe." The award is endowed with 25,000 ($28,940). It has been presented since 1950 by the German Publishers and Booksellers Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ceremonial presentation traditionally takes place at the conclusion of the Frankfurt Book Fair in the city's St Paul's Church, which this year is on October 19. Karl Schlogel was born in 1948 in the village of Hawangen in the Allgau region of Bavaria. He studied Eastern European history, philosophy, sociology and Slavic studies in Berlin. In 1966, he travelled to the Soviet Union for the first time, and in 1968, he personally experienced the Prague Spring. Stays in Moscow and Leningrad in the 1980s shaped his research. In 2014, he travelled to Ukraine after the annexation of Crimea. With works such as "Moscow, 1937," published originally in German as "Terror und Traum" (Terror and Dream) in 2008, or "The Soviet Century: Archaeology of a Vanished World" (2017), he has "set standards for vivid, lively historiography," said Karin Schmidt-Friderichs, chairwoman of the German Publishers and Booksellers Association and chairwoman of the board of trustees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his work, Schlogel combines empirical historiography with personal experiences, she said. "With his narrative style, which combines observation, feeling and understanding, he corrects prejudices and arouses curiosity," said Schmidt-Friderichs. Last year, the award went to US historian Anne Applebaum, who also warned emphatically in her acceptance speech against reducing support for Ukraine. The year before, the British-Indian writer Salman Rushdie received the Peace Prize. Islamists had issued a fatwa against him, and in 2022, he narrowly survived an attack, losing an eye in the process. German historian and essayist Karl Schlogel has been awarded the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade. Schlogel was one of the first Eastern Europe experts to warn of Russian President Vladimir Putin's aggressive expansionist policy, the jury said. "His enduring message is both clear and urgent: Without a free Ukraine, there can be no peace in Europe." The award is endowed with 25,000 ($28,940). It has been presented since 1950 by the German Publishers and Booksellers Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ceremonial presentation traditionally takes place at the conclusion of the Frankfurt Book Fair in the city's St Paul's Church, which this year is on October 19. Karl Schlogel was born in 1948 in the village of Hawangen in the Allgau region of Bavaria. He studied Eastern European history, philosophy, sociology and Slavic studies in Berlin. In 1966, he travelled to the Soviet Union for the first time, and in 1968, he personally experienced the Prague Spring. Stays in Moscow and Leningrad in the 1980s shaped his research. In 2014, he travelled to Ukraine after the annexation of Crimea. With works such as "Moscow, 1937," published originally in German as "Terror und Traum" (Terror and Dream) in 2008, or "The Soviet Century: Archaeology of a Vanished World" (2017), he has "set standards for vivid, lively historiography," said Karin Schmidt-Friderichs, chairwoman of the German Publishers and Booksellers Association and chairwoman of the board of trustees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his work, Schlogel combines empirical historiography with personal experiences, she said. "With his narrative style, which combines observation, feeling and understanding, he corrects prejudices and arouses curiosity," said Schmidt-Friderichs. "This is a surprising and great honour," said the 77-year-old historian. He expressed his gratitude, saying he considered the award a recognition of his work on the relationships and analysis of Eastern Europe. Schlogel summarized his decades-long work on Eastern Europe with the title of one of his early books: "The Centre Lies Eastwards." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schlogel has called on the West to continue supporting Ukraine against Russia's aggression. Schlogel told dpa that there is a saying: "If you want peace, prepare for war." He emphasized that defence is the best means to counter aggression and prevent the expansion of a war. "Therefore, supporting Ukraine is also the best way to secure peace in Europe." Last year, the award went to US historian Anne Applebaum, who also warned emphatically in her acceptance speech against reducing support for Ukraine. The year before, the British-Indian writer Salman Rushdie received the Peace Prize. Islamists had issued a fatwa against him, and in 2022, he narrowly survived an attack, losing an eye in the process. The expansion of a home improvement products manufacturer with Ohio ties is bringing almost 600 new jobs to a Cincinnati suburb over the next five years, according to a July 28 announcement from the state's Department of Development. Great Day Improvements, which the news release called one of the fastest-growing home improvement companies in North America, is expanding in the southwest and northeast regions of the state The expansion of the company is projected to bring 583 jobs to Sharonville and 412 to Northeast Ohio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a historic day for the city of Sharonville and across the Buckeye State as we celebrate this major announcement, Sharonville Mayor Kevin Hardman said. Great Days expansion of their manufacturing operations in our community, facilitated, in large part, by their commitment to bringing 583 new jobs to our community, is a true game changer." Great Day Improvements started as two Cleveland-based brands Patio Enclosures and Stanek Windows. It has since acquired several other brands, including Leafguard, Champion Windows and Apex Energy Solutions. With Ohio roots, we want to be here for growth and opportunity. Its our partnerships with Ohio and local communities making that a reality, Great Day Improvements CEO Drew Weinfurtner said. Our community collaboration helps us lock in Ohio as Great Days center for growth, reinforcing our commitment to the state that built us. The expansion is a partnership between Gov. Mike DeWine's administration and JobsOhio, a private economic development corporation funded by the state's liquor profits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The development was spurred by the Ohio Tax Credit Authority's approval of a tax credit, also on July 28. The news release said JobsOhio will also provide assistance for the project, but specifics have not yet been made public. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Great Day, Leafguard, Champion adding jobs in Ohio Proposals to turn an 18th Century hospital into an apartment building have been approved. The Keelmen's Hospital in Newcastle will be converted into 20 flats, with work set to start next April. The Grade II* listed building was most recently used as student accommodation, but has been left derelict since 2009. Tyne and Wear Building Preservation Trust (TWBPT), which is behind the plans, said the renovation would "bring people back into the heart of the city". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trust, Newcastle City Council and Historic England joined forces last year in an attempt to finally secure a viable future for the at-risk site on City Road. The Keelmen's Hospital dates back to 1701 and was built as an almshouse to look after the workers who delivered coal from the banks of the Tyne to waiting ships. The 1,600 keelmen of Newcastle paid for the construction of the hospital themselves by giving one penny a tide from the wages of each crew, totalling a 2,000 collection to provide somewhere that would look after sick and ageing workers and their families. Shona Alexander, left, says the project will help bring people back into the city centre [Tyne and Wear Building Preservation Trust] TWBPT trustee Shona Alexander confirmed building work was due to start in April next year and the project was expected to take 18 months to two years to complete. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It includes the reconfiguration of the building to create 20 apartments, restoration and cleaning, installation of solar panels, and the addition of a new entrance from Garth Heads. "It is the most fantastic building," Ms Alexander said. "It has been there since 1701 and we want to make sure it lives on for another 200 years at least. "This will bring people back into the heart of the city and bring new life to a building that really needs it. It has been empty for a long time and it is a waste of a really lovely building." 'Centuries of history' Granting listed building consent for the refurbishment works, city planners concluded that the plans would " secure the long term future survival" of the Keelmen's Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They said there would be "some elements of harm to the significance of the heritage asset", but that any negatives were outweighed by the public benefits of bringing the vacant site back into use. Dan Greenhough, the council's cabinet member for economy, jobs and skills, said: "The Keelmen's Hospital is one of Newcastle's most storied buildings and it's brilliant to see its next chapter being written. "With centuries of history, it's been a huge shame to see this listed building stand empty over the last few years. " There had been numerous attempts to save the building before the current vision to turn it into affordable housing made progress, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year a 437,732 National Lottery Heritage Fund grant was awarded for surveys and design work, with TWBPT hoping to receive a further 4.5m to support the full restoration. Follow BBC Newcastle on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. More stories from BBC North East and Cumbria Related internet links The Justice Department (DOJ) sued New York City over its sanctuary policies on Thursday, alleging that they impede federal immigration enforcement and violate the Supremacy Clause. New York City law prohibits the use of city resources for immigration enforcement and bans city officials from sharing information with federal immigration authorities. Exceptions can only be made to the city's detainer laws if federal authorities have a judicial warrant and the individual has been convicted of a violent or serious crime within the last five years. The lawsuit claims that these policies, which have been in place since 1989 and are codified in city code and detainer laws, have led to "tragic consequences," including a recent shooting of an off-duty Customs and Border Protection officer. While the shooting was unfortunate, legal precedent and state laws may weaken the federal government's case that the city's sanctuary laws contravene the Supremacy Clause. The Anti-Commandeering Doctrine, established by the 10th Amendment and reinforced in Supreme Court cases such as New York v. United States (1992) and Printz v. United States (1997), prevents the federal government from compelling states to enact laws or regulations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, in People v. Demarco (2018), the New York Supreme Court ruled that New York law enforcement cannot administer civil immigration laws. This backed up the executive orders issued by then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, in 2017 and 2018 that restricted state officials from assisting with immigration enforcement and prohibited such assistance on state property. In response to immigration arrests taking place in courtrooms during the first Trump administration, New York also passed the Protect Our Courts Act in 2019, which is currently being challenged by the Justice Department. The act prevents civil immigration arrests at courthouses unless a judge-issued warrant is present. The lawsuit lists multiple instances of city officials and agencies declining Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer requests, but complying with these requests is not legally mandated. In Galarza v. Szalczyk (2014), the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit ruled that ICE detainers are not binding requests, and local authorities are liable for unlawful detention if there's no constitutional basis for the detainer. "Courts have found almost universally that liability falls on the level of government that honors the hold," Laurence Benenson, vice president of policy and advocacy at the National Immigration Forum, tells Reason. This means culpability for unlawful arrests often "falls on local government," he adds. Shielding local agencies from civil liability is one reason why some cities have adopted sanctuary policies, according to the American Immigration Council. It could also be a guiding force in New York's refusal to comply with federal immigration agencies. In June, Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul testified before Congress that New York cooperates with ICE on convicted criminals but does not "enforce civil immigration violations," calling it "the federal government's job." Based on the past court cases and state laws, it's unclear what new reasoning the administration will use to prove that New York's sanctuary provisions undermine federal immigration enforcement. Some experts believe the federal government has no standing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Justice Department's lawsuit is as meritless as it is dangerous to federalism," David Bier, director of immigration studies at the Cato Institute, tells Reason. "If the federal government can force states and localities to help enforce federal law however they want, the states effectively lose any sovereignty to choose their own policies." "Under the DOJ theory, any time the federal government chooses a more restrictive approach to labor law, criminal law, guns, immigration, or anything else, the states would have no choice but to cooperate in whatever way the feds wish," Bier adds. The Trump administration's other attempts to force states and municipalities into compliance with its immigration policies, through tactics such as withholding federal funds, have been struck down by the courts. On Friday, a similar Justice Department lawsuit against the city of Chicago was dismissed "in its entirety" by U.S. District Judge Lindsay C. Jenkins, who said it "lacks standing" to invalidate the state, city, and county laws that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement," per The Washington Post. It's difficult to see the Trump administration's lawsuit against New York City faring any better. The post History Isn't on the DOJ's Side in Its Case Against NYC's Sanctuary Policies appeared first on Reason.com. CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) A 47-year-old Hollywood man was arrested last week on animal cruelty charges after deputies seized five dogs from his home. Harry Brown Jr. was booked on five counts for the ill treatment of animals on Tuesday, July 22. He has since been released from the Al Cannon Detention Center on a $25,000 bond. The Charleston County Sheriffs Office Animal Control Unit responded on June 6 to a home on Royal Harbor Road after a concerned citizen reported that dogs may be in danger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When deputies arrived, they found one dog tethered to a tree and four others in chain link kennels. The sheriffs office said all the dogs were emaciated with no access to food or water. A judge immediately signed a seizure order, and the dogs were removed from the property. Authorities took them to the Charleston Animal Society for treatment, according to CCSO. Brown Jr. was identified as the owner and served warrants the day of his arrest. We are committed to investigating and pursuing cases of neglect and cruelty across Charleston County, said Charleston County Sheriff Carl Ritchie. If you see something, please say something and call your local law enforcement agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Veterinarians at the animal society found the dogs were suffering from several ailments, including heartworm, hookworms, dehydration, anemia, scars and torn lips, after a thorough examination. One of the dogs underwent emergency surgery. The dogs rib cages and spines were showing and our veterinarians gave them a body condition score as low as two, when they should be a four or five, said Charleston Animal Society Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Aldwin Roman, CAWA. Four of the dogs were able to be adopted, but one was too aggressive and had to be humanely euthanized, shelter officials said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. (NewsNation) Some industry insiders say Hollywood, typically left-leaning, is starting to shift to the right. Under President Donald Trumps leadership, studios are reportedly placing less emphasis on recruiting diverse casts and shelving some of their more progressive storylines and characters. The shift comes as Trump is calling for his 2024 opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, to be prosecuted along with a handful of celebrities who supported her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RFK Jr. reportedly eyeing overhaul of cancer screening task force Right before the election, celebrities including Oprah and Beyonce stumped for Harris, Oprah appearing at a rally in Philadelphia and Beyonce making an appearance in Houston. Despite anticipation that she might perform, Beyonce focused her speech on the Democratic push for reproductive rights. Federal election data shows the Harris campaign paid over $165,000 to Beyonces production company for that rally, and Oprahs company, Harpo, received a million dollars. The Harris campaign also made payments totaling $500,000 to Al Sharptons National Action Network. Trump claims the fees are illegal payments for endorsements. Despite his calls for action, so far, there are no indications of celebrity charges in the works. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Durbin demands recordings of Ghislaine Maxwell-Department of Justice talks The Harris campaign says the payments were for expenses associated with the appearances, not for endorsements. The campaign, along with Oprah and Beyonce, has denied any wrongdoing. The president has also named a group of Hollywood special ambassadors to address a slump in the industry as studios have lost business to other countries. The industry is also still reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and strikes. Hollywood veterans Sylvester Stallone, Mel Gibson and Jon Voight have been tasked with revitalizing the industry and bringing back the golden age of Hollywood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement None of the three has made any public recommendations so far. Meanwhile, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, has recently expanded Californias tax credit program to $750 million to lure productions back to the state. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. SCITUATE, R.I. (WPRI) R.I. State Police arrested one of their own officers after a monthslong investigation revealed fellow troopers allowed him to drive away from a drunk driving stop, despite watching him swerve across the highway. Former Sgt. Nuno Vasconcelos, of Johnston, has since been charged with two misdemeanors, though he has not been charged with drunk driving. He was forced to retire under a rarely used state law. On March 23, state police responded to 911 calls of a person driving erratically, with one witness reporting that Vasconcelos hit a highway barrier and kept going. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police video from that night shows when officers caught up to Vasconcelos, he was driving on I-295 in Cranston, where he was repeatedly swerving in and out of the roadway. After troopers turned on their lights and sirens, Vasconcelos continued to crisscross lanes for nearly a full minute before pumping the brakes and pulling over. A trooper later reported Vasconcelos was stumbling and that a slight odor of alcoholic beverage could be smelled on his body, according to court records. Despite that, troopers never conducted a field sobriety test and ultimately didnt stop Vasconcelos from getting back into his truck and driving away without consequence that night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State police leaders are now acknowledging mistakes were made. Lt. Col. Robert Creamer told Target 12 that commanders are disappointed with the response to the incident that night and the lack of appropriate guidance and supervision. It did not meet the expectations of the Rhode Island State Police, he added. After approaching Vasconcelos window and seeing who was driving, one of the responding troopers immediately killed the audio of his body-worn camera, making it impossible to hear what the two law enforcement officers discussed. Later, an additional trooper arrived at the scene and asked his colleagues, What ya got? One of his colleagues responded, Sidebar, spurring the trooper to turn off his audio, according to a police report. Sidebar is a term used in court when attorneys want to have a private conversation with a judge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court records show Vasconcelos was placed into the passenger seat of one of the responding cruisers, and he became agitated when he was told his truck was going to be towed. You arent towing my [expletive] truck, Vasconcelos said, according to the records. Vasconcelos then told the trooper to get in your [expletive] cruiser and follow me home, Im going to drive in a straight line. Creamer said Vasconcelos was put on administrative leave after command staff learned about what happened. It also sparked monthslong criminal and internal investigations. On May 5, Col. Darnell Weaver forced Vasconcelos to retire under an obscure state law that allows the superintendent to end a troopers employment if the individual has worked for at least 20 years. The law requires approval of the governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, Vasconcelos was charged with reckless driving and obstructing an officer, both misdemeanors. He was arraigned Tuesday in Kent County District Court and pleaded not guilty. In addition to the incident on March 23, Creamer said their investigation showed troopers had stopped Vasconcelos the prior night. Details of that incident have not yet been released. His attorney, Ed Roy, said the case is in its early stages, and they have not been privy to anything regarding the investigation. Creamer said a supervisor working that night has voluntarily retired in the wake of the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tim White (twhite@wpri.com) is Target 12 managing editor and chief investigative reporter and host of Newsmakers for 12 News. Connect with him on Twitter and Facebook. Eli Sherman (esherman@wpri.com) is a Target 12 investigative reporter for 12 News. Connect with him on Twitter and on Facebook. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. A homeless encampment sits in the woods off the canal path along the Delaware River. (Dana DiFilippo | New Jersey Monitor) Homelessness in New Jersey surged 8% since last year, new figures show, a jump that comes as federal cuts threaten food and housing assistance and other Medicaid benefits for thousands of residents. Affordable housing advocates identified 13,748 people who were living in shelters, hotels, or on the street Jan. 28 during the Point in Time count, an annual enumeration done every January of the states homeless population. Thats about 1,068 people more than advocates counted last year, and the highest number recorded since 2014, when the states homeless population stood at 13,900, according to Monarch Housing Associates, the nonprofit that coordinates the count. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most 11,753 people were living in shelters, hotels or motels, transitional housing, or safe haven programs, Monarch reported. But advocates also counted almost 2,000 people living outside, in vacant or abandoned buildings, or in other locations not meant for human habitation, with such unsheltered homelessness more than doubling in New Jersey since 2022. Sixteen percent of those counted were considered chronically homeless. Federal cuts to critical safety nets will only make things worse, with cuts implemented in a recently passed spending bill and proposed for the next federal budget threatening to destroy the very infrastructure we rely on to support our most vulnerable neighbors, said Taiisa Kelly, Monarchs CEO. Taiisa Kelly heads Monarch Housing Associates. (Dana DiFilippo | New Jersey Monitor) This is happening at a time when we are seeing increasing affordability issues, increases in unsheltered homelessness, and more communities criminalizing homelessness, Kelly said. She called on policymakers to invest in solutions proven to reduce homelessness, including housing assistance strategies known as rapid rehousing and housing first, which place people in permanent housing and typically come with support services like financial assistance and landlord mediation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Homelessness has steadily risen in New Jersey since 2021, with an average increase of 14% annually, said Katelyn Ravensbergen, a senior associate at Monarch. While our systems are working to connect everyone they can with stable housing, the number of households entering homelessness is unfortunately increasing at a rate that outpaces the expansion of housing opportunities and other supports, Ravensbergen said. This issue will be further exacerbated if federal programs historically used to rapidly rehouse these families are reduced or eliminated as proposed. Under the federal budget bill President Donald Trump signed July 4, about 350,000 residents are expected to lose Medicaid coverage and 424,000 families likely will see some or all of their monthly Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program benefits end, advocates said. Congress members are now developing budgets for federal agencies for the coming fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. Funding for housing and homeless service programs is expected to shrink, with some programs targeted for elimination altogether. That includes the Home Investment Partnerships Program, which funds the development of affordable housing. New Jersey and its counties and municipalities received $34.7 million in funding from that program last year, according to Monarch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This years count also showed several demographic disparities persist: Families with at least one child accounted for about a third of those experiencing homelessness. Veterans continue to struggle with homelessness, with 543 veterans counted, representing a 4.8% increase since last year. Black people continue to experience homelessness at disproportionately higher rates than people of other racial or ethnic identities, comprising 47.4% of the homeless population, even though just 12% of New Jersey residents are Black. Essex County had the largest homeless population statewide. Advocates chalked the increase in unsheltered homelessness up to the overburdened shelter system. In recent months, shelters have operated at more than 90% of their capacity every day, and they cannot accommodate rising homelessness, advocates say. The latest count reveals the human toll of the worsening housing affordability crisis, said Michael Callahan, director of the state homelessness prevention office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The data confirms what our communities have long known: homelessness is being driven not just by poverty, but by deep structural inequities, including systemic racism and the dramatic shortage of affordable homes, Callahan said. It is a call to action for bolder, better-targeted investment in prevention, housing, and justice. (Chart courtesy of Monarch Housing Associates) SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) Peoria Opportunities Foundation is partnering with the Southside Community Center to provide homes for low-income families. The Southside of Peoria has seen decades of neglect, resulting in a lack of population, funding, and business, due to what is called the red line. We are trying to dismantle the red line, the jury laws that have been in place most of us have never heard of, said Reverend Irene Lewis-Wimbley, a pastor for the Southside Community Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Red Line is a discriminatory real estate practice that restricts racial minorities to one area, and in this case, it is the Southside. How the legacy of redlining in Peoria persists to the present day We are trying to dismantle the red line, the jury laws that have been in place most of us have never heard of, Reverend Lewis-Wimbley said. This obstacle is what Peoria opportunities Foundation and Southside Community Center is aiming to do with the new home renovation. They hope that with new homes that it will being more people and businesses to help make the southside economy thrive. Hopefully when we have these new fancy houses, the neighbors will think, Oh, we should fix our house out, we should pay a little bit, put some new shutters on, just do other things that kind of increase the look of the neighborhood, said Irina Riggenbach, director of Peoria Opportunities Foundation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since there are not many grocery stores on the Southside, its hard for community members to get fresh produce when needed since many of them do not have a form of transportation to get them there. With and increased population brought in from the new home renovations, they hope it will be able to sustain a grocery store for Southside community members. Having that an increased population will really benefit the south side. Itll bring hopefully more businesses. It can help sustain the new grocery store thats going to be opening up and just encouraging other development as well, said Riggenbach. And the neglect isnt just a problem for the Southside, but the greater Peoria area, to pitch in to help each other out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are better together. This problem didnt get like this overnight, Reverend Lewis-Wimbley said. Its not black history, its American history. Its our history. And once we have a common narrative and tell the truth, then we can go from wound to scar. The new home renovations will cost around $100,000 each or more, and that money comes from a grant that totals to one million dollars. We got a grant from the health department to partner with an organization. Were partnering with the Southside Community Center to purchase, renovate and sell seven single-family homes for homeownership on the South Side, said Riggenbach. Volunteer programs are in the works for members of the community looking to give a helping hand to the effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are working on a volunteer program, so we once we purchase these houses, well have some like final house cleaning days and well have some volunteer opportunities to do, said Riggenbach. Reverend Lewis-Wimbley hopes the community will step up and not give up on the Peoria community, as a Southside resident herself, she sees the community and shares how amazing they really are. We dont give up on ourselves. We certainly arent going to give up on them. Everybody has their own unique story, but the more impact, the deeper we can make our relationships and connections. If you can help us do that, thats how were going to transform, she said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. Hong Kong's LGBTQ community has reluctantly rallied behind a government plan to expand rights for some same-sex couples, with activists ditching their idealism in hope of a rare legislative win. The city's top court confined marriage to heterosexual couples in 2023 but ordered the government to create an "alternative framework" to recognise same-sex couples' rights by October. Government officials unveiled a proposal on July 2 to allow limited rights for gay and lesbian couples. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it only covers those whose unions are registered abroad, as some same-sex couples have done, including through online ceremonies. The bill covers medical-related matters and after-death arrangements, for example, a person's right to visit their partner in hospital or to claim a dead partner's body. But even same-sex couples whose unions are recognised will still be unable to marry, adopt children or access some spousal entitlements such as prison visits. Nevertheless, it could be one of the biggest advances for equal rights in the city's history. The LGBTQ community is prepared to be pragmatic, said non-binary artist Holok Chen, who read out a statement decrying homophobia outside a marriage registry on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are not idealists," Chen told AFP. "We are desperate because we are now in an impossible position. Either we have to accept a discriminatory proposal... or we have to risk nothing at all." Yan Ng, a co-founder of advocacy group Dear Family Hong Kong, said the government should offer "a more inclusive system" with stronger safeguards for more types of relationships. "We appreciate that the government shouldered their responsibility to put forward the bill," she told AFP. "This is a half-step, but can we go a bit further?" - 'Bare minimum' - Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill has completed preliminary vetting and will likely be sent to Hong Kong's 89-strong legislature for debate and voting after summer recess. Only 12 lawmakers have publicly expressed support, according to a tally by newspaper Ming Pao. No open forum or consultation has been held. Instead, the public was given just seven days, until Tuesday afternoon, to write in with their views. Film director Ray Yeung said it was "unreasonable" for the government to rush the process but would still support the proposal. "If you are a beggar and you're given a bowl, that's better than nothing," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, Yeung directed "All Shall Be Well", an award-winning drama inspired by the legal and administrative headaches faced by same-sex couples in Hong Kong's hospitals, morgues and cemeteries. "If your partner is sick or is about to die, to a certain extent (the bill) can help you, it provides a bare minimum of rights." Films like Yeung's have been credited with helping to shift public opinion over the years. A 2023 survey showed that 60 percent of polled Hong Kong people supported same-sex marriage. Kelley Loper, one of the legal academics behind that survey, told AFP the draft bill will "only grant a very limited number of rights" and failed to satisfy what top judges demanded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I expect the courts will eventually determine that the partnership scheme is insufficient and the gaps are unconstitutional," said Loper, a professor at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. Pro-Beijing lawmaker Priscilla Leung argued that there was no consensus on LGBTQ equality, saying that eight out of 10 of her constituents voiced "strong objection". - No more 'megaphone' - Years of planning and patience by the LGBTQ community have come down to this one month of "chaotic" discourse, according to activist Sean Hau. "The issue went from a snail's pace to the speed of a rocket," said Hau, another co-founder of Dear Family Hong Kong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Mobilising used to be very visible, because we have a space to speak with a megaphone... We might not be able to do that now." Hong Kong's Pride Parade was first officially held in 2008 and activists once freely campaigned on the streets. But Beijing cracked down on political freedoms in the Chinese finance hub after months of huge and sometimes violent democracy protests in 2019. Chen, the artist, was closely watched by police on Monday during their performance art event. A few days before that, they were escorted away by officers after displaying a large rainbow flag outside the legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The community has turned to online petitions and letter campaigns, including one initiated by democracy activist Jimmy Sham who recently completed a prison term for subversion. Among the dozens who filed written submissions to the legislature was HKSpectrum, an advocacy group for LGBTQ youth founded in 2021. "Rights related to medical matters and after-death arrangements are not just problems for the elderly. Young people may face them too," said Ash, one of the group's activists. Matthew, another group member, told AFP that discussion was muted among teens on social media, highlighting the need to raise awareness. "We must work harder and try different things so that more people will pay attention." hol/oho/je/djw/lb HONOLULU (AP) Honolulu is not alone in its effort to sue fossil fuel companies to hold them accountable for climate change harms, but the city's lawsuit is further along than similar litigation across the country. Judge Lisa Cataldo didn't immediately rule Tuesday after hearing arguments on a defense motion seeking to dismiss the lawsuit because the state's two-year statute of limitations expired. Honolulus claims are based on allegations that have been publicly known for decades, attorneys for the oil companies argue. In 2020, Hawaii's capital city sued major oil companies, including Exxon Mobil, Shell and Chevron, arguing they knew for nearly half a century that fossil fuel products create greenhouse gas pollution that warms the planet and changes the climate. The companies have also profited from the consumption of oil, coal and natural gas while deceiving the public about the role of their products in causing a global climate crisis, the lawsuit says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Honolulu's lawsuit blames the companies for the sea level rise around the island of Oahu's world-famous coastline. It also warns that hurricanes, heat waves and other extreme weather will be more frequent, along with ocean warming that will reduce fish stocks and kill coral reefs that tourists love to snorkel over. The lawsuit seeks an unspecified amount of damages. Attorneys and media representatives for most of the companies didn't immediately respond to emails and phone messages from The Associated Press seeking comment on the lawsuit. ConocoPhillips and Phillips 66 representatives sent emails saying they don't comment on pending litigation. The issue of climate change and how to tackle it has long been part of public discussion and ongoing scientific research and debate for many decades, Shell said in a statement issued by media relations representative Anna Arata. There is a vast public record of media articles, scientific journals and government reports for well over 50 years that make this clear. The suggestion that the plaintiffs were somehow unaware of climate change is simply not credible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the case is still far from trial, it is much closer than some 30 similar lawsuits nationwide brought by other states, cities and counties. The outcome could indicate how other cases play out and how oil companies will defend themselves in court. The first trial in any of these cases will be very significant," Michael Gerrard, founder and faculty director of the Columbia University Sabin Center for Climate Change Law. It will get a large amount of nationwide or even global attention because the oil companies have not yet had to take the stand and defend themselves in a trial. In 2019, Exxon Mobil prevailed in a lawsuit by New York's attorney general over the costs of climate change, with a judge saying there was no proof the energy giant duped investors about the toll that regulations could take on its business. Honolulu's lawsuit has reached this hearing stage after the Hawaii Supreme Court denied motions to dismiss it, and the U.S. Supreme Court refused to take it on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, a similar lawsuit by Maui County, where a massive wildfire nearly two years ago burned down most of Lahaina and killed 102 people, is on hold. The state of Hawaii has also filed a similar lawsuit, despite the U.S. Department of Justice in May suing Hawaii and Michigan over their plans for legal action against fossil fuel companies, claiming their climate actions conflict with federal authority and President Donald Trump's energy dominance agenda. Hawaii's attorney general's office filed a motion last week seeking to stop the Department of Justice's federal lawsuit: Allowing this case to proceed would give the United States license to wield the federal courts as a weapon against any litigation between nonfederal parties that an incumbent presidential administration dislikes." Soon before a lawsuit by a group of youths against Hawaii's transportation department was scheduled to go to trial, both sides settled the case last year, agreeing on an ambitious requirement to achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions across all transportation modes no later than 2045. NEED TO KNOW Experts say that U.S. residents in arid parts of the midwestern and western states could see an increased number of tarantulas in the fall, which is the spiders' mating season Dan McCamish with California State Parks said that male tarantula appearances are more likely, as females often burrow underground There are an estimated 29 different species of tarantulas in the U.S. spread across 15 states Summer's end is near, and tarantulas are on the move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Experts say that U.S. residents in the midwestern and western states could start seeing more of the hairy spiders roaming around in large groups as fall approaches and mating season begins, according to the Lindsay Wildlife Experience and the Los Padres Forest Watch. "They generally wait for the first fall seasonal rain they really respond to the late summer warmth and the increase in moisture," a senior environmental scientist for California State Parks, Dan McCamish, told USA Today. "If you're lucky enough, you can sometimes see them in hordes crossing the roads at certain times of the year," he added. Getty A tarantula walks in Death Valley California National Park. A tarantula walks in Death Valley California National Park. Wild tarantulas live in Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Florida, according to USA Today. Outside of mating season, wild tarantulas are rarely seen, the outlet noted, because the spiders often only come out at night in arid areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As with most things that live in the desert in the summer, they're generally nocturnal," McCamish told USA Today. "So unless you're out in the middle of the night, which I don't recommend for safety purposes, you likely won't see them." "They're typically out from late evening into early dawn," he continued. McCamish also explained that tarantulas spotted above ground near autumn are most likely to be males, as females stay underground in their burrows while the males search for mates. He said, "If you come upon one that's sitting in its burrow or on top of a hole, it's likely a female waiting for males to mate with." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Los Padres Forest Watch, there are an estimated 29 different species of tarantulas in the U.S. ten of which are "found in California." Tarantulas can lay between 700 and 1,000 eggs, and it takes approximately 6-9 weeks for them to hatch, according to the organization. Getty A photo of a person holding a tarantula. A photo of a person holding a tarantula. McCamish also shared some advice with USA Today, saying that people who come across a tarantula in the wilderness during the fall should leave it alone, as the spiders are timid creatures and won't attack unless confronted. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. "If it starts coming towards you, give it some space. It might be defending its eggs, or you might have interrupted a mating ritual between a male and female," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "... Mostly they're interested in escaping from confrontations especially with something they know could squish them," McCamish added. "In general, the species is very docile, but if you were to handle one, they could bite you." Read the original article on People HORIZON CITY, Texas (KTSM) A 35-year-old man was recently arrested after allegedly physically assaulting a woman during an argument and having three outstanding warrants, according to the Horizon City Police Department. Eusebio Martinez Jr., 35, photo courtesy of Horizon City Police Department Shortly before midnight on Monday, July 21, officers responded to a domestic violence call at 1400 Sabio Drive in Horizon. Police said upon arrival, officers made contact with the victim, who reported that Eusebio Martinez Jr., 35, had physically assaulted her during an argument. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers conducted a warrant check for Martinez, and learned he had the following outstanding warrants: Horizon City Police Department for traffic offenses with a $725 bond. El Paso County Sheriffs Department for theft of property (larceny) with a $1,500 bond. El Paso Police Department for assault family violence with a $2,000 bond. Martinez was then arrested and booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility for assault family violence under a $5,000 bond and the outstanding warrants, police said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. A gunman opened fire inside a high-rise corporate building in the heart of Manhattan on Monday evening, killing a New York City police officer and three other people, officials said. NYC Mayor Eric Adams joins Morning Joe to discuss the shooting and to honor 36-year-old police officer Didarul Islam. Hospital briefly stopped admissions after cooling system unexpectedly shut down originally appeared on Bring Me The News. A Twin Cities hospital temporarily stopped patient admissions and ambulance transfers after its cooling system unexpectedly shut down on a sweltering Monday in Minnesota. Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park informed staff at around 2 p.m. that it was not accepting patient admissions or ambulance emergency center transfers due to the fault with the cooling system on a day that the heat index was expected to surpass 100F in the metro. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shutdown occurred on Monday morning, with the memo to staff saying the problem was quickly identified and repaired. However, hospital leaders said it would take time for "the system to return to full strength." In an update at around 2:40 p.m., the hospital said the system had been fully restored and the hospital had returned to normal operations. During the shutdown, the hospital said it had to postpone and reschedule "some appointments and procedures because some spaces need to be at an optimal temperature." Related: Derecho live: Latest updates as dangerous storm bears down on Minnesota This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 28, 2025, where it first appeared. After several days of dangerous heat, Tuesday is expected to reach another level. The National Weather Service placed the Tampa Bay Area under an extreme heat warning, a rare step up from a heat advisory. The warning will go into effect at noon and run until 7 p.m. Forecasters say air temperatures will hover in the upper 90s, and some inland areas could reach triple digits. Heat indices could reach a sickening 118 degrees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some showers and thunderstorms are possible Tuesday, but likely wont occur until late afternoon after the hottest part of the day, said Stephen Shiveley, a meteorologist for Tampa Bays weather service. An extreme heat warning is rare, and issued when heat indices could reach or exceed 113 degrees in a widespread area. Tampa Bays weather service likely issued its first ever warning of its kind in 2023, and has not issued one since. Heat-related illnesses increase significantly when extreme heat and high humidity combine, the weather service said. When a person sweats, heat is pulled away from the body, cooling them. When humidity levels are high, the air becomes saturated with water, and a persons ability to cool lags, which can lead to heat illnesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These illnesses fall on a spectrum. A person may show up to the emergency room with minor symptoms like cramps or a heat rash. But in severe cases a patient may arrive with temperatures of 104 degree or more typically considered a heat stroke. The weather service advised residents to drink fluids, stay in air-conditioned areas and out of the sun. Additionally, the warning reminded people to check on neighbors and to not leave children or pets in cars unattended. The city of Tampa announced Monday afternoon it would open three cooling stations. On Tuesday and Wednesday the stations are open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cooling stations are open to all residents, especially those without access to air conditioning, the city said. In sticky, humid west-central Florida, its not uncommon for the heat index to soar into the 100s, but the average actual temperature which does not factor in humidity rarely exceeds 95 degrees. Climate scientists say heat waves are becoming more common and lengthier due to human-caused climate change. The excessive heat will likely begin to wane Wednesday. The areas temperatures will remain above average, but probably not record-breaking, Shiveley said. This is not a dry heat, this is humid heat, Shiveley said. Going in the shade might help a little bit, but you really need to get inside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You really need to get in air conditioning, stay hydrated. Tampa cooling stations Barksdale Adult Activity Center, 1801 N. Lincoln Avenue George Bartholomew Center, 8608 N. 12th Street Cuscaden Pool, 2900 N. 15th Street The Tampa Bay Times launched the Environment Hub in 2025 to focus on some of Floridas most urgent and enduring challenges. You can contribute through our journalism fund by clicking here. Detectives are searching for the man pictured above after a woman reported being raped in the early hours of New Year's Day at a hotel in Sheffield. South Yorkshire Police said the victim reported a man, who she did not know, attacked her in a hotel room in St Mary's Gate, at about 04:00 GMT on 1 January. The force has now released a CCTV image of a man they believe may have information about the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man is described as being 5ft 10in (178cm), of slim build, with short black hair, a "stubbly" beard and a slit in one of his eyebrows at the time. A police spokesperson said: "We have been conducting extensive inquiries since the incident was first reported to us, but are now appealing for the public's help to identify the man in this image as we believe he may be able to help us with our investigation." Anyone who recognises him is asked to contact South Yorkshire Police. Listen to highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North Related internet links After a multiple-year-long investigation into an insider-trading allegation regarding U.S. Congressman Mike Kellys wife, the U.S. House Ethics Committee released a report saying it did not find evidence that he knowingly or intentionally caused his spouse to trade based on insider information. According to the report, the investigation came after allegations that Kellys wife may have purchased stock in the Cleveland Cliffs Butler Works Plant based on confidential or material nonpublic information that Kelly had learned during his official job duties. Even though the committee did not find a clear violation of conflict of interest, one local political analyst said the investigation could still be a negative for the congressman, especially as Kelly is a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This doesnt mean that theyre guilty of insider trading; it might have just been a massive coincidence, but it is a bad look for a member of Congress to have a spouse to invest in a company that their husband has oversight power over, said Dr. Jeff Bloodworth, a history professor at Gannon University. Political protest held concerning Congressman Mike Kelly The investigation began in July 2021, and the ethics committee criticized Kellys cooperation with the investigation in their report released four years later on July 25th. The report said that Kelly cooperated with the committees investigation, but the committee found that Kellys failure to acknowledge the seriousness of the alleged misconduct violated the Houses Code of Official Conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the report also said the committee did not receive full cooperation from Mrs. Kelly and was therefore unable to determine whether her stock purchase was improper. When it comes to investigations like this, Bloodworth said the public expects government officials to not only obey the rules but also go above and beyond the rules. The optics of this are not good, and so a member of Congress should do something to make those optics less bad, and to help restore public trust in Congress in that elites are not using their power to enrich themselves, said Bloodworth. House Ethics Committee expresses disapproval of PA Rep. Mike Kelly insider-trading investigation Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Representative Kelly said he and his family look forward to putting this distraction behind them, and he gave JET24/FOX66 the following statement: This investigation has unnecessarily lasted for nearly five years. In the years since this investigation began, the Cleveland Cliffs Butler Works plant faced an uncertain future due to the Biden administrations reckless energy policies. Throughout this process, I have fought for the 1,400 workers at the plant, Ive spoken with these workers, and they appreciate the hard work we have done to fight for those jobs and for Butler. The committee report also said that Kelly and his wife should divest any stock in the company before he takes any further actions directly related to the company. If you would like to read the House Ethics Committees investigation report, you can access the link here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. Astoria, Queens (PIX11) As the cost of living continues to soar across New York City, the issue of affordable housing has emerged as a key concern for voters as they decide who should be Mayor. Mayor Eric Adams is touting what he calls unprecedented progress in addressing the citys housing shortage. More Local News He said his administration has done more in 3.5 years than the last two mayors combined. But frustration among residents continues to mount, especially as many still struggle to find apartments they can afford. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To address that concern, Adams on Monday unveiled a new housing initiative that aims to convert part of the defunct Flushing Airport in Queens into 3,000 housing units targeted at working-class New Yorkers. The project would be built by union labor and funded by union pension investments. We get a double win here, Adams said. The union members who are building the housing can afford to live in the housing they are building. Still, critics argue that Adams housing policies, including his City of Yes rezoning effort, take too much power from local communities. This is Eric Adams gone wild. This is the City of Yes on steroids, said Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa on the campaign trail Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, currently abroad in Uganda, has made rent control a central plank of his platform, advocating for the construction of new, deeply affordable housing with rent stabilization protections. Meanwhile, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who has entered the race as an independent after losing to Mamdani, is campaigning on experience, arguing he can fast-track housing projects across the city. Even as developers praise Adams for moving relatively quicklya new project taking about 18 months to break groundmany New Yorkers wonder why affordable housing still feels out of reach. Whats taking so long? PIX11 asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were building more than 12 years of Bloomberg and eight years of de Blasio, Adams responded. If thats not urgency, I dont know what is. According to the Adams administration, approximately 100,000 units of housing have begun or been completed on his watch. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. The Brief Houston police are asking for the public's help to identify a man who robbed a drug store on July 13. The suspect pushed an employee before stealing several bottles of cologne from a store in the 5200 block of Antoine. He's described as a Black male, 45-50 years old, 6'2", and about 230 pounds, last seen in a black shirt and blue jean shorts. HOUSTON, Texas - The Houston Police Departments robbery Division needs the public's assistance to identify the suspect responsible for a robbery by force that occurred at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Cologne Robbery What we know An unknown male suspect entered a drug store, located in the 5200 block of Antoine, in Houston. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The male approached the employee and requested to look at the colognes. While looking at the colognes, the male pushed the employee, grabbed several bottles of cologne, and then fled the location with the stolen merchandise. Robbery suspect Dig deeper The suspect is described as a black male, 45 to 50 years old, 62, around 230 pounds, wearing a black shirt and blue jean shorts. Information leading to the charging and/or arrest of any felony suspects may result in a cash payment up to $5,000. What you can do Please contact Crime Stoppers of Houston DIRECTLY if you have any information related to this investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tipsters MUST contact Crime Stoppers DIRECTLY to remain anonymous and to be considered for a cash payment by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477), submitting an online tip at www.crime-stoppers.org or through the Crime Stoppers mobile app. The Source The information in this article was provided by the Houston Police Department. In the video, the crew detailed how the Houthi forces saved them while they were floating, and that they have been giving the group good shelter, giving us what we need, and keeping us safe. Yemen's Houthis on Monday released a video showing ten members of the Greek ship ETERNITY C, which was attacked and sunk by the Houthis in the Red Sea earlier in July. The ten crew members were among the 12 presumed to be missing or held hostage by the terrorist group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the video, the crew detailed how the Houthi forces saved them while they were floating, and that they have been giving the group good shelter, giving us what we need, and keeping us safe. Yemens Houthis released a video showing ten member of the Greek ship ETERNITY C, which was attacked and sunk by the Houthis in the Red Sea earlier this month. (credit: SCREENSHOT/X) The crew confirmed that they knew they were heading for Israel, and that they had requested to receive a bonus for traveling to a high-risk area. Did you hear any call or warning from anyone to the ship to stop? a distorted voice behind the camera asked, to which a member of the crew identified as Rafael Gonzalez responded yes, he heard the ships captain ignore the call of Yemen's Navy. The crew cautioned against operating in the Red Sea or sending ships to Israel What is your message to companies that sail their ships to Israel? the voice asked, and the crew members urged additional ships to avoid Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Please do not go to Israel, it is very dangerous, and many Palestinian people are suffering, Gonzalez said. This war must be stopped; if you want to send a vessel to the high-risk area, please inform the crew, and ask the crew if they want to go to this high-risk area, the ships electrical engineer, identified as Alexei Galactonein, said. For example, for me, if I had known better, Id have gone home before. It is dangerous to pass through the Red Sea, the ships assistant engineer, identified as Julimo Tabiros, said. I want to say sorry for our ship going to Israel. For Palestinian people who suffered injury, children who suffered injury, we are very sorry for them, Gonzalez added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video ended with the crew cheering as they spoke to their families, assuring them of their well-being. This sinking of the ETERNITY C, loss of life, and subsequent Houthi detention of 10 crew members is a harsh wake up call to the industry of the critical importance for consistent due diligence and robust risk assessments, which could have prevented this incident, Ellie Shafik, head of intelligence at Vanguard Tech, told The Jerusalem Post. As long as the conflict in Gaza persists, vessels with affiliations (both perceived and actual) will continue to face elevated risks. Incorporating affiliation checks as a routine part of regional transit planning should no longer be a preferred add-on, but a mandatory part of best practice. Seafarers must not bear the burden for institutional failings beyond their control. The company was not able to disclose details pertaining to any efforts being made to secure the crews release. The main message of the Houthi video is that they are not deterred. Israel has carried out several rounds of attacks on the Houthis, but this has apparently not stopped the attacks. The Iranian-backed Houthis released a video on July 28 showing ten members of the crew of a ship they sunk. They kidnapped the crew after sinking the ETERNITY C in the Red Sea. The ETERNITY C was a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier. It was one of two ships the Houthis attacked in early July. This came after many months where the Houthis had stopped attacking ships. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US had carried out airstrikes on the Houthis in mid-March but then chose to end the attacks in April. The Houthis have claimed they are attacking ships that are linked to Israel. The Houthis' decision to kidnap the crew of the ship is a new phenomenon. The last time the kidnapped crew was the crew of the Galaxy Leader, a ship they hijacked and towed to Yemen in November 2023. Usually the Houthi model was to attack and harass ships but not try to kidnap the crew. The ETERNITY C was attacked and it does not seem other navies rendered aid. Instead the Houthis showed they control the Red Sea. It is not clear if the US, UK or other navies will stop the Houthi attacks. A vessel said to be Greek-operated, Liberia-flagged Eternity C sinks in a footage released by Yemen's Houthis, in the Red Sea, in this screen grab taken from a handout video released on July 9, 2025 (credit: Houthi Media Center/Handout via REUTERS) Recently a ship transferring arms to the Houthis was interdicted, illustrating that some countries appear to be working with the Yemen government to stymie the Houthis. The Houthis are technically a rebel group that controls a third of Yemen, primarily mountain areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The website Safety4Sea noted regarding the video, that the ten individuals are among the twelve crew members who were initially reported missing or believed to be held hostage by the Houthis. The Houthis paraded the captured crew and appear to have had them say that the Houthis saved them. The video shows the crew being rescued from the sea at night, along with the footage of them currently in Houthi custody. The crew members are seen stating that they were unaware of the Houthi-imposed maritime ban on sailing to Israeli ports. One sailor is seen making a phone call home, while others are shown giving statements. The Houthis are clearly trying to show they are. not deterred and will continue attacks in the Red Sea. They have threatened to escalate the attacks. They claim to be backing Gaza and supporting Palestinians. They began attacks soon after the Hamas attack on October 7. Safety4Sea noted that four Filipino crew members are believed to have died in the attack and the appearance of only ten men in the video raises questions about the fate of the eleventh crew member the Houthis claim to have rescued. The Houthis claimed that the ship was heading for Eilat The Houthis claimed in the video that the ship was heading for Eilat, which the Houthis call Umm al-Rashrash in occupied Palestine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Houthis claimed that recordings of the ships crew confirmed its violation of the maritime navigation ban on the ports of occupied Palestine, affirming that Umm al-Rashrash port was the ships destination from Berbera port in Somalia, and that Jeddah port in Saudi Arabia was a destination for deception and resupply purposes. The Houthis noted that they are calling on all ship-owning and operating companies, the maritime community, and the public not to deal with the Zionist entity, regardless of the offers, to ensure the safety of their ships and crews. The Houthis also called on ships to keep their Automatic identification system (AIS) working as they transit the area. This enables trips to be tracked via a receiver. This would seem to make it easier for Houthis to find and locate ships. The main message of the Houthi video is that they are not deterred. Israel has carried out several rounds of attacks on the Houthis, but this has apparently not stopped the attacks. The Houthis also continue to launch ballistic missiles at Israel. It is not clear what the never level of escalation by the Houthis may consist of. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A community pool at one of Baton Rouges oldest parks will remain closed after an incident where young children had guns sparked safety concerns for visitors and lifeguards. BREC Interim Superintendent Janet Simmons said last week that while the July 20 incident at Howell Community Park involving children between the ages of 8-12 was non-confrontational, it was a cause for concern. A petition started by residents to keep the pool open has over 100 signatures. Simmons announced at a Monday meeting that the pool likely wont reopen until next summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since Ive moved here, I see more and more resources leaving the North Baton Rouge community, and thats unfortunate. And so instead of seeing another pool closed, Id like to see more pools open, resident Tebbe Jackson said. She said she understands the security issues as she continues to push for the reopening. Changes made to admission costs for Baton Rouges Liberty Lagoon Simmons said the recent incident isnt the first. She said several incidents at the park have caused lifeguards to feel unsafe. Jackson said residents should pitch in to get involved in the community to improve it, suggesting that families have conversations with their children. Several ideas are being pitched, including transforming the pool area into a place just for swim lessons, hiring more lifeguards, and increasing security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am positive that were going to come together and find solutions as a community, so lets be a partner with BREC and find solutions, Jackson said. BREC will create a community task force to address issues. Anyone interested in joining the group can email howellpark@brec.org. Howell Community Park is located at 5509 Winbourne Ave. Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. The pro-Palestinian organization urged the British government to take action to seize the vessel, which was sailing under a British Flag. The Hind Rjab Organization (HRF) filed a complaint with the War Crimes Unit of the British Metropolitan Police against the commander of Shayetet 13, who led the seizure of the Handala ship, Walla reported on Monday. The pro-Palestinian organization urged London to take action to seize the British-flagged vessel under the argument that its detention was made in international waters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The HRF claimed that the Handala was about 49 nautical miles off the coast of Gaza, meaning it was in international waters, outside of the blockade area declared by Israel. It also claimed that the passengers on board were unarmed civilians. The lawsuit aims to not only detain the commander of Shayetet 13, the IDF special unit that seized the aid ship, but also any officials in the Israeli military and government who may have authorized the operation, planned it, or assisted in it." Activists wash the deck of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition ship 'Handala' as they prepare to sail for Gaza in an attempt to break a long-standing Israeli blockade and deliver humanitarian aid amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Marsa, Malta August 16, 2024. (credit: REUTERS/DARRIN ZAMMIT LUPI) The Hind Rjab Organization called for the British authorities to immediately open a criminal investigation into the operation, identify and interrogate all passengers, especially British citizens, and take legal action against any political or military figure responsible for the raid. The Shayetet 13 operation to seize the Handala The Israel Navy intercepted the Handala, the IDF and the Foreign Ministry announced last Saturday night. The boat, with all its passengers, was en route to Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Channel 12, those aboard the flotilla reported seeing a drone circling above them as vessels approached the ship. The legal aid group Adalah The Legal Center for Arab Minority Rights in Israel sent a letter to authorities last Sunday morning demanding the whereabouts of the activists on the Handala and emphasizing their right to legal counsel. On Saturday evening, Huwaida Arraf, an activist on board, said in an update that Two vessels, probably the IDF, are very close to Handala. Attempts were made to contact the Israeli Navy but no response was received. As a precaution, the ship reportedly changed its course to go south toward Egypt. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee rejected the idea that theres any break between President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the issue of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Thats about as realistic as saying that I was personally responsible for the kidnapping of the Lindbergh baby, Huckabee said in a Tuesday interview on Fox Newss Americas Newsroom, when asked about the legacy media narrative about a break between the leaders. Let me assure you that there is no break between the Prime Minister of Israel and the president. Their relationship I think to be stronger than its ever been. And I think the relationship between the U.S. and Israel is as strong as it has ever been, he continued, pointing to the U.S. attack on Irans nuclear sites last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huckabee blamed the medias coverage of the humanitarian situation unfolding in Gaza, saying some of the viral photos of emaciated Palestinian children have turned out to be from years ago and to be depicting children with cerebral palsy or other diseases unrelated to starvation. So no, theres not a break between them. The disconnect is with the media, who wants there to be an anti-Israel message that they keep getting across, but its a false message, he said. Huckabee said that while the situation in Gaza is a mess right now, its not as dire as television coverage often makes it seem. He also criticized the world for blaming Israel for the mass starvation in Gaza, saying Hamas could end the crisis immediately by agreeing to end the war. So is there suffering? Yes. Is it as bad as some of the Europeans say it is? No, but it could be a whole lot better. It could all be over quickly, if Hamas would finally decide theres no future for them there, which is exactly what the president keeps saying, Huckabee said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump told reporters on Monday that he does not particularly agree with Netanyahus claim that there is no starvation happening in Gaza, but he has largely stopped short of outright criticizing Israel for its role in preventing aid from getting to Palestinians. I mean, based on television, I would say not particularly because those children look very hungry, Trump told reporters when asked about Netanyahus claim. The president also said the U.S. would take a more active role in getting food into the region. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee pushed back on the idea that President Donald Trump has broken with Israels government in calling out the humanitarian crisis in Gaza on Tuesday, adding that he remains close to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Let me assure you that there is no break between the prime minister of Israel and the president, Huckabee said in a Tuesday interview with Fox News. Their relationship, I think, [is] stronger than it's ever been, and I think the relationship between the U.S. and Israel is as strong as it's ever been. The comments come after Trump said Monday that there is "real starvation" in Gaza, contradicting Netanyahus denial of a hunger crisis in the war-torn region. A United Nations-backed report warned this week that a worst-case scenario of famine is playing out in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, Netanyahu said there was no daylight between his government and the Trump administration, praising Trump for the recent U.S. militarys bombing of Irans nuclear sites. Trump on Monday stopped short of joining France and the United Kingdom in their commitment to recognizing a Palestinian state ahead of Septembers United Nations General Assembly. But he said he told Netanyahu to change course and vowed to work with European allies to set up food centers in Gaza. Huckabee called the decisions by European leaders very foolish, arguing it amounts to support of Hamas leaders. All they lift is their tongue, and what they're saying is very detrimental to any future peace process, and it's certainly detrimental to dealing with Gaza right now, he said. It has just made Hamas feel like that they have a real opportunity to declare a victory. WACOUSTA, Mich. (WLNS) Hundreds of Michiganders came together to celebrate the 100th birthday of 100-year-old Gloria Miller Sunday afternoon. The Wacousta native is a long-time environmentalist and helped educate her community on the importance of clean rivers and wildlife. Gloria Miller (middle) at her birthday celebration. (WLNS) The birthday celebration. (WLNS) Gloria Miller (right) at her birthday celebration. (WLNS) The turnout to Gloria Millers 100th birthday speaks for itself shes made a lasting impact on her community. However, she says she didnt expect that many people to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im proud that they came, said Gloria Miller. Some people I havent seen for years. Milers celebration was hosted at a park named after her Gloria Miller Looking Glass Valley Park which was dedicated to her in 2018 to honor her work as a conservationist. Gloria Miller Looking Glass Valley Park. (WLNS) The Looking Glass River is older than the Grand River. Its the way the settlers came in by canoe, said Miller. She made a grand entrance to her party, kayaking down the river. During her birthday celebration, Miller was gifted an award by Michigan Rep. Emily Dievendorf and a heartfelt birthday message from U.S Sen. Elissa Slotkin. Family and friends alike traveled for Millers big day, even Shiori Hashimoto, who arrived from Japan. Shiori Hashimoto. (WLNS) Shiori Hashimoto. (WLNS) Shiori Hashimoto. (WLNS) I meet Gloria with my friend. My friend Diane and Iris, said Shiori Hashimoto. Diane and Iris climbed Mount Fuji 20 years ago with a breast cancer fund. 500 people climbed the Mt. Fuji together, so after that we have a very good friendship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wendy Schutt-Danko, Millers niece, says it was amazing to see so many people come out to celebrate her aunt. Wendy Schutt-Danko, Millers niece. We expected at least 100 people, said Schutt-Danko. She knows so many people throughout this county, and in this area. So, I imagined there would be that many people, but I think we might have more than that today. While 100 years of living is a huge milestone, Miller says her greatest accomplishment was teaching others the importance of planet Earth. Some photos at the celebration. (WLNS) Some photos at the celebration. (WLNS) Some photos at the celebration. (WLNS) Some photos at the celebration. (WLNS) Educating people about good practices in our environment, said Miller. Miller has dedicated her life to giving back, teaching science for years, and even climbing Mt. Shasta in California to help raise funds for breast cancer. Sunday was a chance for the community to return the favor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) The all-black regiments formed after the Civil War were called Buffalo Soldiers. June 28 is National Buffalo Soldier Day, and the City of Huntsville honored black soldiers with ties to Madison County on Monday. The 10th Cavalry Regiment Buffalo Soldiers camped in Huntsville after serving in the Spanish-American War. Decatur woman hosts 14th annual birthday blood drive to bring in donations Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After fighting in Cuba, the regiment stayed for several months on Cavalry Hill in 1998 and 1999. They became, to a great extent, a part of the community, said Ollye Conley, an educator in Huntsville. Conleys family is descended from Second Lieutenant Paschal Conley, a Buffalo Soldier from Madison County. Ollye Conley has worked to honor his memory, pushing for his title as a second lieutenant. Paschal Conley received the posthumous promotion from the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2023. Ollye Conley also advocates for sharing the stories of other Buffalo Soldiers. They played such a pivotal role in the early history of our nation, and our young people need to know about it, Conley said. They need to know about their valor and strength and their willingness to work hard, even during difficult times. They didnt always have uniforms that were appropriate or equipment, but they continue to serve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download the WHNT News 19 App to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WHNT News 19 newsletters to have news sent to your inbox. The area in Huntsville that once housed the Buffalo Soldiers camp became the current Northwoods neighborhood. As I grew older, I learned more about Calvary Hill, then the Buffalo Soldiers and the 10th Cavalry, American Legion Post 351 Commander Kevin Walker said. In the military, serving in the cavalry myself, I was proud to walk around and tell everybody, hey, this is where I live. I live there. I grew up there. Today, Cavalry Hill is home to a memorial honoring the Buffalo Soldiers. Ollye Conley said she hopes one day the monument can include an interactive element providing information to future generations about each soldier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were individuals as well as they worked collectively, and so, I would like for them to know their names and what they did and you know, their lives, she said. The monument was built in 2010. Leaders from across Huntsville said Monday was a good opportunity to share the stories of the Buffalo Soldiers. So often we forget about the history of those who have come before us, and we stand on the shoulders of those great figures and those impactful figures of those who really paved the way for us to enjoy some of the freedoms that we have, Randy Barbour, the Huntsville Director of Multicultural Affairs, said. So, it was great and always good to commemorate those who served before us so that we understand that we didnt get here on our own. LOOKING FOR THE EXTENDED FORECAST? Click here to learn how to download the Live Alert 19 app Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mondays event included a wreath-laying ceremony and performances from Buffalo Soldier re-enactors. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. (Texas Scorecard) Over the last six months, 214 illegal aliens who have committed sex offenses against children were arrested by federal agents in the Harris County area. This number exceeds the 211 similar arrests made during the entire 2024 fiscal year by the agencys Houston field office, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. These arrests are the result of coordinated enforcement operations led by ICEs Enforcement and Removal Operations Houston and supported by multi-agency teams including the FBI, ATF, DEA, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Diplomatic Security Service, U.S. Marshals Service, and state and local law enforcement. This latest operation builds on a series of major sweeps in recent months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March 2025, ICE arrested 646 illegal aliens in Houston, including seven known gang members and 34 charged with or convicted of sex crimes, many involving minors. In May, a targeted sweep resulted in 422 arrests, including individuals suspected of murder and arson, with more than 260 of those having prior criminal convictions. In June, ICE operations led to 1,361 arrests in the Houston area, including: 32 convicted child sex offenders 9 individuals with homicide convictions 16 known gang or cartel affiliates One individual previously convicted of airplane hijacking Also in June, 142 criminal aliens were deported from Houston to Mexico, including 11 child predators and eight gang members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among those apprehended in the past six months are: Jesus Gutierrez Mireles, 67, from Mexicoconvicted of aggravated sexual assault of a child and DWI; deported April 4 after three prior removals Jorge Zebra, 48, from Mexicoconvicted of two counts of aggravated sexual assault of a minor and sexual indecency; deported March 24 Manuel Antonio Castro-Juarez, 37, from El Salvadorconvicted of sexual assault of a minor and previously deported twice; pending third removal Jose Guadalupe Meza, 40, from Mexicoconvicted of theft and sexual assault of a child Sergio Rolando Galvan Guerrero, 45, from Mexicoconvicted of DWI and aggravated sexual assault of a child These enforcement actions occur amid growing budget concerns in Harris County, where 12 percent of the county jail population currently consists of inmates held under ICE detainers. The county has spent $1.1 million in FY2025 on legal services for illegal aliens in deportation proceedings, including those with criminal records. Paul McBride, acting field office director for ICE ERO Houston, stated: Bringing together the resources and expertise of the entire federal law enforcement community to confront the overwhelming surge of illegal immigration that we saw over the past four years has resulted in the arrest and removal of historic numbers of violent criminal aliens, transnational gang members, and child sex offenders. ICE arrests Jamaican national serving as police officer in Maine and living in U.S. illegally Federal immigration authorities are criticizing a local police department after the arrest of a Jamaican national who is working as a police officer in Maine while living in the U.S. illegally. Jon Luke Evans was arrested Friday in Biddeford, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials said in a statement on Tuesday. Officers with ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives arrested Evans after he unlawfully attempted to buy a firearm, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of his arrest, Evans was employed as a reserve police officer with the Old Orchard Beach Police Department. Jon Luke Evans not only broke U.S. immigration law, but he also illegally attempted to purchase a firearm. Shockingly, Evans was employed as a local law enforcement officer, ICE ERO Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia Hyde said in a statement. The fact that a police department would hire an illegal alien and unlawfully issue him a firearm while on duty would be comical if it werent so tragic, Hyde said. We have a police department that was knowingly breaking the very law they are charged with enforcing in order to employ an illegal alien, Hyde said. ICE Boston will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing criminal alien threats from our New England communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evans admitted to ICE officers that he attempted to purchase the firearm for his employment as a police officer with the Old Orchard Beach Police Department. His attempt to purchase the firearm triggered an alert to ATF agents, who worked in coordination with ICE to make the arrest. Evans lawfully entered the U.S. at Miami International Airport in Florida on Sept. 24, 2023, but he violated the terms of his lawful admission when he overstayed his visa, Hyde said. Evans was scheduled to depart the U.S. on Oct. 1, 2023, but never boarded the flight. In a very similar case in April, Hyde said ICE officers in Falmouth arrested Gratien Milandou Wamba, 32, a citizen of Congo, who was working as a corrections officer and living in the U.S. illegally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers with ICE Bostons office in Scarborough, Maine arrested Milandou Wamba for immigration violations after he allegedly illegally attempted to purchase a firearm. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency on Tuesday sharply defended its decision to block Maryland members of Congress from inspecting a Baltimore detention facility and said the lawmakers are supporting migrants who put our Maryland communities at risk. ICEs response further escalated tension between Maryland Democrats and the Republican Trump administration, particularly over immigration issues. On Monday, six Democratic members of Marylands congressional delegation including Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks were denied permission to inspect conditions at the holding facility inside the Fallon Federal Building in Baltimore. The members sat on the floor in a corridor outside the door before unsuccessfully pleading their case to Nikita Baker, the acting field office director. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ICE, responding to The Baltimore Suns questions, said in a statement Tuesday that the members were turned away for the safety and security of all personnel, as well as the safety of aliens currently in ICE custody. The statement said the lawmakers including Reps. Kweisi Mfume, of Baltimore; Johnny Olszewski Jr., of Baltimore County; Sarah Elfreth, of Anne Arundel County; and Glenn Ivey, of Prince Georges County had not provided advance notification of their visit. Secretary (Kristi) Noem has made it very clear that U.S. lawmakers are to provide advanced notice before visiting ICE detention centers and processing facilities. Yesterday in Baltimore, lawmakers arrived at the ICE field office without advanced notification and were turned away, ICEs statement said. The members did inform ICE in a July 21 letter of their intention to visit, according to a copy of the letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter, to Noem and Todd Lyons, ICEs acting director, did not specify when the visit would occur. But the lawmakers citing a 2024 federal law covering detention facility entries said in the letter that they are permitted to arrive unannounced for the purpose of conducting oversight. The Baltimore facility is the one in which Kilmar Abrego Garcia was detained until being mistakenly deported to his native El Salvador in March. Congressional Democrats have seized upon the Prince Georges County sheet metal workers case as an example of the administrations lawlessness and callousness towards immigrants rights. The administration has called Abrego Garcia a gang member and human trafficker who should not be set free in the United States. ICEs statement on Tuesday singled out Alsobrooks, the first-term senator, for criticism. Ironically, many of these criminal aliens are arrested in sanctuary jurisdictions like Prince Georges County where Alsobrooks once served as States Attorney and County Executive notorious for refusing to honor ICE immigration detainers, it said. Her former offices track record of releasing dangerous aliens back into her community speaks volumes. Instead of standing with victims and backing law enforcement, Senators Alsobrooks and Van Hollen, along with Congressman Mfume, choose to support those that put our Maryland communities at risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As county executive, Alsobrooks declined to enter into an agreement with ICE. While she strongly supports local law enforcement collaborating with federal agencies to address and remove all gang members and violent criminals from the community, she firmly believes that local law enforcement should not be involved in routine enforcement of a persons immigration status, her Senate campaign wrote in 2024. Alsobrooks could not be reached for comment on Tuesday. She said after being turned away from the facility on Monday that it was abundantly clear that the people working in this facility have been instructed to hide the horror of the inhumane treatment of the people in their custody. And the man behind it all Donald Trump clearly does not care about any of us. In May, the Department of Homeland Security issued a statement reminding Congress members and staff that they need to comply with facility rules, procedures, and instructions from ICE personnel on site for their own safety, the safety of the detainees, and the safety of ICE employees. The directive followed the indictment of Democratic Rep. LaMonica McIver of New Jersey over a physical altercation with an ICE agent at a detention facility in May. She pleaded not guilty. _____ More information has been released regarding illegal immigrant child sex offenders arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the Houston area in the last six months. The Houston ICE Field Office has arrested 214 illegal migrants charged or convicted of a sex offense involving a minor so far under the Trump Administration. That is more than the Houston Field Office arrested during the entire 2024 fiscal year when they arrested 211 illegal immigrants charged or convicted of a child sex offense, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Of the 214 criminal illegal immigrants arrested, 179 had final orders of removal from an immigration judge. 141 have already been removed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Thanks to ICE Houston, 214 less pedophiles on our streets. These are the type of perverted predators ICE is targeting and removing from our country," DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said. "President Trump and Secretary Noem will not allow these sickos to prey on children in the U.S. Our message to these depraved criminals is clear: LEAVE NOW. If you dont, we will hunt you down and deport you." Some of the criminal illegal immigrants charged or convicted of a child sex offense arrested by the ICE ERO Houston Field Office in the past six months include: Gabriel Julio Velazquez Lopez, 25, illegally entered the U.S. four times since 2016. Gabriel Julio Velazquez Lopez, 25, criminal illegal immigrant from Mexico, convicted of sexual assault of a child and assault with intent to rape. He illegally entered the U.S. four times since 2016. ICE arrested him on April 8th, and he was deported on April 10, 2025. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Worst Of The Worst Snared: Ice Nabs Illegal Immigrants Convicted Of Horrific Crimes Roberto Antonio Caballero-Garcia, 31, was deported by ICE on May 5, 2025. Roberto Antonio Caballero-Garcia, a 31-year-old criminal illegal immigrant from El Salvador, was arrested for three counts of sexual assault of a child in Dallas County. He was convicted in 2017 and given 10 years deferred adjudication. Ice deported him on May 5, 2025. Ice Arrests Over 200 Illegal Alien Child Sex Offenders In Houston Area In Past 6 Months Carlos Alfredo Lopez Espinal, 45, was arrested by ICE on July 18, 2025. Carlos Alfredo Lopez Espinal, a 45-year-old criminal illegal immigrant from El Salvador, was convicted of sexual indecency with a minor in March 2025. He was arrested by ICE on July 18, 2025. Meliton Gonzalez, 76, was deported by ICE on June 12th, after serving time in Texas. Meliton Gonzalez, a 76-year-old criminal illegal immigrant from Mexico, was convicted of child sexual assault in 2015 and sentenced to 10 years. Gonzalez has been illegally in the country since 1976. He was deported by ICE on June 12th, after serving time in Texas. Mario Ramirez Martinez, 71, served 10 years in prison; arrested by ICE and deported Jun 2, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mario Ramirez Martinez, a 71-year-old criminal illegal immigrant from Mexico, was convicted of two counts of sexual assault of a child in Hidalgo County, Texas. He served 10 years in prison; arrested by ICE and deported June 2, 2025. Original article source: ICE in Houston releases new details about arrested illegal child sex offenders Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador speaks at a press conference outside the U.S. Supreme Court on April 24, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) In March 2023, Daphne Huang emailed her supervisor repeating concerns she had shared a day earlier. She was troubled with the ethics of the Idaho Attorney Generals Office new management months after Raul Labrador became Idahos attorney general. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think (the executive office) is concerned with our ethical responsibilities under professional rules of conduct to which we are all bound, Huang wrote. They instead appear intent on dismantling government, and doing so without regard for the people who believe in public service who fall in their wake. They have drawn the (Attorney Generals) Office into adversity with its clients based on anti-government pursuits irrespective of how the law applies to the facts. Before firing her a couple hours later, Labrador didnt look into her concerns, he recently said in a deposition. I had no concerns. It was clear that she was not acting in good faith. And it was clear that she was already preparing for litigation, Labrador said, according to a partial transcript. Months before Huangs whistleblower lawsuit against the Attorney Generals Office is set to go to a jury trial, the Attorney Generals Office has asked an Idaho judge to dismiss the case, arguing Huang was fired for misconduct not whistleblowing. Huang was fired early in Labradors investigation into $72 million of child care grants distributed by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, the agency she represented as a deputy attorney general. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huangs email, Labradors deposition and hundreds of other pages of evidence were released in court documents related to the Attorney Generals Office request to dismiss the lawsuit. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX AGs Office says lawyer was fired for misconduct In its request, attorneys for the Attorney Generals Office said: Even under the most charitable interpretation of the facts, (Huang) was fired for misconduct not for refusing to carry out an unlawful directive or for whistleblowing. Part of the case centers around Huang allegedly giving the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare the cell phone of her former supervisor, who was asked to resign days before Huang was fired. The phone had data that Health and Welfare allegedly claimed privilege over and was deleted from the phone before it was returned to the Attorney Generals Office, court documents show. That was despite a request from the Attorney Generals Office to return the phone with the data preserved, the records show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Attorney Generals Office argues that the timeline is clear: she made alleged ethical complaints because she was being fired, and not the other way around. Huangs attorneys responded with a timeline of the events leading up to her firing, arguing that Labrador started his leadership of the Attorney Generals Office with an unusual change. On the day he became AG, Labrador met with (deputy attorneys general) and staff and informed them everyone would be reappyling for their jobs and that he wanted employees who would be Team Labrador, Huangs attorneys said. They allege Labrador told staff that the Attorney Generals Office did not represent state agencies. That confused Huang, who knew the offices attorneys are public attorneys for the people of the state, her lawyers say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Idaho 4th District Court Judge Jonathan Medema heard oral arguments on the Attorney General Offices request to dismiss the case, through a motion for summary judgment. He will issue a decision later. In court, Deputy Solicitor General Michael Zarian argued Huang didnt refuse the offices directive. A refusal would be to decline to accept the directive and to express that, Zarian said. And that is the definition of the word refusal. But here, she expressed a willingness to agree and then did the opposite. And thats just, honestly, dishonesty to your employer. An attorney for Huang, Guy Hallam, argued Huang did what she was supposed to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The client requested the phone, and she gave it to the client. She has a duty to that client, Hallam said. She did what she should do under the law, and under her duties under the rules of professional conduct. And it may have amounted to a refusal that they view as insubordination, but its appropriate under the law. The lawsuit is scheduled to go to a jury trial in October. Recent court ruling affirmed Labradors civil subpoena power This month, another court ruling seemed to clear a hurdle for the investigation. The Idaho Supreme Court on July 10 unanimously ruled Labrador had the authority to issue civil investigative demands to organizations that received the grant funds from Health and Welfare. But the court wrote that nothing in this opinion should be read as implying that we have concluded that any of the Grant Recipients have violated the law because we have not been asked to address that issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement after the ruling, Labrador said the offices goal is not to punish grant recipients but to ensure taxpayer funds were used according to state law. We will continue to defend the investigative powers the Legislature has entrusted our office, he said. But more than two years after the investigation began, its status is unclear. For more than a year, state officials have released no information about how its going. A timeline of Labradors investigation into Health and Welfare grants: Launched months after the former congressman became Idahos top attorney in 2023, the grants investigation is one of several legal clashes Labrador has had with state government agencies that his office legally represents including his now-dropped lawsuit against the State Board of Education related to University of Idahos attempted purchase of the University of Phoenix. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two state officials linked to the grants investigation Huang, the fired attorney, and Dave Jeppesen, the former Department of Health and Welfare director filed complaints against Labrador with the Idaho State Bar, the Idaho Capital Sun previously reported. New records show state officials received more subpoenas In late 2023, when Labradors special prosecutor, Christopher Boyd, told state health officials hed withdraw the civil investigative demands that they sued to block, he said hed look to appoint a special inquiry judge a court process outlined in state law that allows secrecy. At the time, Boyd wouldnt say whether such a judge had been appointed, the Sun previously reported. But government records obtained by the Idaho Capital Sun through a public records request show state employees were subpoenaed in early 2024 or earlier to testify to a special inquiry judge. The records dont identify the judge. Government agencies linked to the investigation could not be immediately reached for comment. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an email on Feb. 26, 2024, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Deputy Director Jennifer Palagi told the agencys then interim director, Dean Cameron, that two state officials had been subpoenaed by special prosecutor Boyd to testify before a special inquiry judge on March 5, 2024. Those subpoenas were similar to ones she, other current and former state officials including the agencys previous director, Dave Jeppesen had received, Palagi wrote. The Idaho governors then-director of operations, Lori Wolff, also received a similar subpoena, Idaho Gov. Brad Littles General Counsel Brady Hall wrote in a separate Jan. 30, 2024 email. All the subpoenas were signed by Boyd, sought testimony on the grants program and came with an Agreement to Testify with Immunity, Hall wrote. The Idaho Capital Sun obtained the emails through a public records request to the Idaho governors office. An attorney for Huang first obtained the emails from the governors office after allegedly not receiving them in the legal discovery process from the Attorney Generals Office. Judge Medema in July denied Huangs attorneys request for sanctions over the evidence dispute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The emails also asked how to arrange legal representation for the subpoenaed officials. Its not immediately clear whether the testimony sought by the subpoenas happened, or how legal representation for the officials was arranged. The Idaho Attorney Generals Office declined to share information on the investigations status. Other agencies and officials involved in the emails or investigation including the Idaho governors office, the Department of Health and Welfare, and Boyd, who is also Canyon Countys prosecuting attorney could not be immediately reached for comment. Boyd was also appointed as a special prosecutor in Ada County to prosecute this case, Chief Deputy Attorney General Phil Broadbent said in a reply email to the governors attorney in January 2024. Last week, the Ada County Prosecuting Attorneys Office declined to comment on Boyds appointment, telling the Sun that the matter remains under investigation. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun announced Monday that the city has been awarded grants of $123,000 and $66,885 from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management through its 2025 DieselWise Indiana Emission Reduction Program. With the $123,000, the citys engineering department has added three new electric vehicles to the municipal fleet. This upgrade will lower gas expenses for the department. Replaced vehicles will be sold as surplus or repurposed for other departments. The $66,885 will be used to support the replacement of two aging diesel-powered fleet vehicles with new and cleaner alternatives. A streets department diesel-powered dump truck will be replaced with a new clean diesel model, and a light-duty excavator in the cemetery department will be replaced with a new clean diesel alternative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No local property tax dollars or income tax dollars were used on these purchases, Sakbun emphasized. The state of Indiana and EPA continue to invest in our city, Sakbun said. This provides much-needed budget relief from a local standpoint while moving the city toward more efficient equipment. The grants help create long-term savings and a smarter, greener city infrastructure for the future, the city said. The new vehicles will feature certified clean diesel technology, helping to reduce harmful emissions and improve air quality. All equipment funded under this program must be certified or verified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sakbun said the city will continue to pursue federal grants. Terre Haute Regional Airport was also awarded $166,500 to replace two old, polluting diesel engines that have been used to mow the airfield, Executive Director Craig Maschino said. Since the November 2024 ceasefire, the IDF has detected around 456 new threats and attacked Hezbollah over 500 times. The IDF has said that it will continue regular attacks on Hezbollah despite the November 2024 ceasefire until it disarms, even if this leads to another war. A significant part of this calculation is the ongoing substantial harm that the IDF has caused to Hezbollahs ability to threaten Israel to date. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If pre-war Hezbollah had around 150,000 rockets and tens of thousands of launchers for firing rockets, as of now, the number of launchers is down to a couple of thousand, with the total number of rockets down between 70-80%. In practical terms, the implications are staggering given that this means that if pre-war Hezbollah could easily fire around 1,500 rockets at a time, now the Lebanese terror group can only fire some dozens at a time. Hezbollah also has lost virtually all of its multiple rocket launching platforms. This completely changes how Hezbollah operates, and limits its options for coordinated attacks, since it only has individual rocket launchers, which makes each rocket launch a strenuous and exposed effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hezbollah retains a small number of long-range precision rockets, but would struggle to fire them given that the areas where it would need to move them to in order to fire could leave them exposed to IDF attacks, and many of these areas have already been attacked in the past. Hezbollahs loss of Syria for smuggling weapons has hit the group hard in any rearming efforts. The new Syrian Sunni regime is blocking the vast majority of Iran's weapons smuggling efforts from Syria to Hezbollah on its own initiative and without any Israeli assistance as part of its opposition to the spread of Shiite influence. The IDF has attacked some cross-border positions between Syria and Lebanon as many as five times to determine whether they still represent a smuggling threat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement IDF sources expressed some hope that Lebanon might eventually get Hezbollah to disarm, and are confident for now that Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem is heavily deterred and intimidated from launching a rocket attack on Israel. On the other hand, IDF sources said Iran continues to stream around one billion dollars into Hezbollah to prop it up, whereas the West is only sending Lebanon up to $250 million. IDF strikes Hezbollah terror targets in Lebanon. (IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT) This disparity could keep Hezbollah overall in power even if it has lost some of its standing. Also, the military said it has attacked Hezbollah over 500 times since the November 2024 ceasefire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some 230 of the attacks were killing Hezbollah terrorists, 90 were attacks on rocket launchers, 20 were attacks on Hezbollah bases or outposts, 40 were attacks on weapons storage areas, and three were attacks on Hezbollahs special forces Radwan training camps. These numbers, added to the Hezbollah terrorists killed before the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, mean that 4,000-5,000 operatives are dead and around 9,000 are wounded badly enough to be permanently out of fighting. Hezbollah manpower, munitions, threat to Israel significantly reduced since before war The IDF said that this meant over half of Hezbollahs standing army of 25,000 is out of service. Before the war, Hezbollah was also said to have tens of thousands more reservist fighters, but IDF sources estimate that only 10% of them are still active now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is due to fear of being killed, or their commanders being killed, leaving no one really in touch with them, or a lack of weapons and arms. Also, the Radwan forces are down to 2,500-3,000 from their pre-war 6,000 numbers. They have also been reassigned to internal security issues, given how much smaller Hezbollahs forces are across the board, as opposed to being focused on potential attacks. Further, the IDF has said that, at least for now, there is no Hezbollah invasion threat, given how far they are being kept from the border. This does not mean that a small group of Hezbollah fighters could not surprise Israel in one or two spots. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the scenario of 6,000 Radwan invaders striking Israel all over the north simultaneously is not and will not be a threat for some time to come. The IDF is complimentary to the US on handling the dispute mechanism for resolving Hezbollah violations of the ceasefire, as opposed to UNIFIL pre-war. The IDF has submitted 1,263 violations. Of these, around 456 were new threats, many of which the IDF in the end dealt with, and 666 were passed on to the Lebanese army, which dealt with 546 of them, or 82%, properly. This is a high percentage of success, and the IDF credits the US for helping the Lebanese army follow through against Hezbollah. At the same time, the IDF still acts whenever needed, and some violations, which have multiple aspects to them, are dealt with by a mix of the IDF, the mechanism, and the Lebanese army. This includes soldiers from Duvdevan, the IDF's West Bank undercover unit, arresting two terrorists from Ramallah and a terrorist from Beitunya who were planning attacks. The IDF and Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) are continuing with their counterterrorism operations in the West Bank, and have successfully arrested at least 36 wanted individuals over the past month, the military announced on Tuesday. The 36 arrested included 12 terrorists who were planning to carry out attacks in the West Bank, the military clarified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This comes after dozens of operations and undercover missions across the West Bank in order to protect Israeli citizens and counter terrorist activity. One operation included killing two armed terrorists, the military noted. Another included soldiers from Duvdevan, the IDF's West Bank undercover unit, arresting two terrorists from Ramallah and a terrorist from Beitunya who were planning attacks. These arrests occurred last week, the military clarified. Soldiers from the IDF's Duvdevan undercover unit on counterterror operations in the West Bank, July 2025. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT) In addition, security personnel located and confiscated numerous weapons, including improvised explosive devices and firearms. Recent IDF, Shin Bet, counterterrorism activity in the West Bank Israeli security forces arrested a terror cell in Bethlehem overnight that was planning an attack, the IDF and Shin Bet said in a joint statement last Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The targeted operation was conducted by the IDF, Israel Border Police, and the Shin Bet in the Etzion Regional Brigade sector. In operations across the West Bank, officers and soldiers detained a total of 16 wanted suspects and seized weapons and funds used for terror-related purposes. The IDF detained 400 terrorists from six separate terror cells in June during military operations in the West Bank. The release said that the IDF interrogated several hundred additional suspects for their connection to the cells, which were planning attacks on Israel. The position is heavily fortified, with large trenches and a sizable complement of soldiers, with additional IDF units nearby the border able to race over and reinforce the position on short notice. The Jerusalem Post went on an embedded visit to the IDFs northernmost and deepest position in southern Lebanon of Hamamis, which is northeast of Metula, southwest of Mount Hermon and on the southern outskirts of Khiam. Traveling there from an IDF base in the Kiryat Shmona area took only around 10 minutes, a smoother drive than some other trips the Post has taken into southern Lebanon which required scaling bumpier hills and valleys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The position is heavily fortified, with large trenches and a sizable complement of soldiers, with several additional IDF units nearby the border able to race over and reinforce the position on short notice. The Jerusalem Post's Yonah Jeremy Bonb embeds with the IDF in its deepest position in Lebanon. (YONAH JEREMY BOB) When the IDF announced it was temporarily holding onto five positions in Lebanon some months ago, it said that in total there would be around several hundreds IDF soldiers stationed in Lebanon. Israel's ceasefire with Hezbollah According to the November 2024 ceasefire with Hezbollah, the IDF was due to make a full withdrawal by the end of January of this year. Israeli soldiers seen in the Golan Heights, northern Israel, on February 8, 2024 (credit: MICHAEL GILADI/FLASH90) But the IDF accused Hezbollah of repeated attempts to violate the ceasefire when it tried to return forces to southern Lebanon and added that the Lebanese army still seemed intimidated from enforcing the rules on Hezbollah of keeping them out of southern Lebanon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accordingly, the IDF convinced the incoming Trump administration of the necessity to - at least temporarily and until the Lebanese army could reliably keep Hezbollah out of southern Lebanon - maintain the five outposts (which are several hundred meters into southern Lebanon), while withdrawing most of its four divisions, which had operated there during the October-November 2024 invasion. However, the IDF said there was no timeline for withdrawing from the five outposts and the Post noticed additional heavy new trenches being dug, suggesting a long stay which could draw out for years. In fact, IDF sources said that as long as Hezbollah retained its power as the primary influencer in Lebanon in a way that could lead to security threats, it would be highly preferable for the military to maintain the positions to minimize the danger of any potential Hezbollah invasion and to increase the IDFs ability to keep the Lebanese terror group out of southern Lebanon. Remarkably and due to constant IDF pressure to date, the military has succeeded almost completely at keeping Hezbollah from returning to southern Lebanon and has succeeded completely in terms of any terrorists openly walking around the area armed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Part of the success is that since the IDF destroyed many Hezbollah-Shiite border villages - which had been full with weapons - during the 2024 invasion, almost no Lebanese civilians have returned to the contact area - meaning within three to five kilometers from the Israeli border. From Hamamis, there were a small number of Lebanese villages which were still standing which the Post could see and which IDF sources said were usually Christian-Lebanese villages, which had not been part of Hezbollahs weapons-invasion of Israel plans. However, many prior-existing villages affiliated with Hezbollah which the Post saw were still destroyed, even though the ceasefire kicked in around eight months ago. The absence of Lebanese civilians in the three to five kilometer area or closer to the border has meant Hezbollah does not have a convenient group of civilians which it can embed-camouflage itself in with. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This camouflage strategy had been one of the IDFs largest concerns. That said, most Lebanese civilians have returned to southern Lebanon south of the Litani River in the area of around five to 10 kilometers from the Israeli border. There, IDF sources indicated that there are some unarmed Hezbollah operatives who have woven themselves into the local population. A menacing buzz reverberates through the night sky in eastern Ukraine. Explosions ring out, flashes illuminate sunflower fields below and the smell of gunpowder poisons the air. "There! Three kilometres away!" shouted one Ukrainian serviceman in the air defence unit equipped with Soviet-era weapons and tasked with intercepting Russian drones, before they home in on Ukrainian towns and cities. The long-range unmanned aerial vehicles originally designed by Iran but improved and launched by Moscow have been devastating Ukraine since the early chapters of the Kremlin's invasion launched in early 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moscow has trumpeted its industrial-scale production of the cheap weapons, with state-television broadcasting what it called the world's largest drone factory. The rare footage showed the assembly of hundreds of jet-black triangle-shaped Gerans -- geraniums in Russian. On the night in July that AFP embedded with an air defence unit in Ukraine's eastern Dnipropetrovsk region, Russia launched 344 drones, but its largest-ever barrage comprised of more than 700. "It's rotten tonight, just like the day before," said one serviceman in the air defence unit, leaning over a radar. Increasingly sophisticated Gerans are flying at higher altitudes and able to alter course en route, but Vasyl's unit is equipped with old, short-range weapons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They fly chaotically and unpredictably. It has become harder to destroy them," the 49-year-old told AFP. "We're effective, but I can't promise that it will be like this every week," he added. - 'Nothing we can do' - Oleksandr, a fellow serviceman defending airspace near Pavlograd city, was scrutinising a radar where hundreds of red dots were appearing. "There's nothing we can do. It's not our area," he said of the incoming drones. His 20-year-old daughter, who lives in Pavlograd, was not answering her phone, he told AFP while lighting a cigarette. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But I warned her," added Oleksandr, who like others in this story identified himself with his first name or army nickname in line with military protocol. An explosion boomed, the horizon glowed crimson and dark smoke appeared in the sky moments later. President Volodymyr Zelensky has secured several Patriot batteries from allies since the invasion began and is appealing for funding for 10 more systems. But the sophisticated systems are reserved for fending off Russian missile attacks on high-priority targets and larger cities. Ukraine is instead seeking to roll out cheap interceptor drones to replace units like Vasyl's, and Zelensky has tasked manufacturers with producing up to 1,000 per day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "People and modern weapons" are what Ukraine needs to defend its air space, Vasyl told AFP. The teams get little sleep -- two hours on average, or four on a good night, and perhaps another one between drone waves, Vasyl said, adding that the deprivation takes a physical toll. One serviceman with another air defence unit in the eastern Donetsk region, who goes by Wolf, told AFP he has problems sleeping anyway due to grim memories he has fighting in east Ukraine. - Sleep deprivation - Belyi who works alongside Wolf was assigned to the unit regiment after he sustained a concussion and a shell blew off part of his hand while he was fighting in eastern Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both were miners in eastern Ukraine before Moscow invaded. Russian drones are threatening their families in the city of Kryvyi Rig, in the neighbouring region further west. Neither has been granted leave to visit home in more than two years and they are instead working around the clock, seven days a week. Back near Pavlograd, sunrise reveals dark circles under the soldiers' eyes, but the buzz of a new drone wave emerges from the horizon. The unit's anti-aircraft gun fires one volley of tracer rounds, then jams. The team grabs WWII-era machine guns and fire blindly in the air. Another drone in the Russian arsenal is the Gerbera, once an unarmed decoy used to overwhelm air defence systems that have since been fitted with cameras and are targeting Vasyl's team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Only fools are not afraid. Really," he said. On his phone he showed an image of his two blond-haired children who are now living in the capital Kyiv -- also under escalating bombardments. "I'm here for them," he told AFP. fv-asy/jbr/giv/tc FIRST ON FOX - U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers arrested a Jamaican national for allegedly attempting to purchase a firearm illegally while employed as a reserve police officer in Old Orchard Beach. According to ICEs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in Boston, Jon Luke Evans was taken into custody with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) after his firearm purchase attempt raised concerns tied to his immigration status on July 25 in Biddeford. Federal authorities say Evans legally entered the United States through Miami International Airport on Sept. 24, 2023, under a visa that required his departure by Oct. 1, 2023. He failed to leave as required and has remained in the country unlawfully since. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the investigation, Evans reportedly claimed he was seeking to purchase the firearm for use in his role with the Old Orchard Beach Police Department. Man Deported 3 Times Now Convicted After Illegal Us Reentry During Biden Admin ICE officials are now questioning how an individual without lawful immigration status was hired by a local police agency and possibly issued a department-issued weapon. Read On The Fox News App "This case raises serious concerns," said Patricia H. Hyde, acting field office director for ERO Boston. "We will continue working to ensure that individuals who violate immigration laws and pose potential threats to public safety are held accountable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ice Makes Several Arrests Across The Country Over Memorial Day Weekend ICE arrests Jamaican national who overstayed visa by nearly 10 months while employed by Maine police department The Old Orchard Beach Police Department told Fox News Digital that Evans was hired in May as a seasonal officer and underwent a full background check, physical and medical screening, and law enforcement training. As part of the hiring process, the department submitted his employment documents to DHS through the federal E-Verify system. According to police, DHS confirmed Evans eligibility to work, and his Employment Authorization Document showed an expiration date of March 2030. "Our department and our community relied on the Department of Homeland Securitys E-Verify program to ensure we were meeting our obligations," said Police Chief Elise Chard. "We are distressed and deeply concerned about this apparent error on the part of the federal government." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maine is one of about a dozen states that allows non-citizens with valid work permits to serve in law enforcement. Reserve officers in Old Orchard Beach are seasonal employees tasked with community patrols and do not take department-issued firearms home or carry personal weapons while on duty. Evans probationary status is currently under review, and the department has launched an internal investigation to evaluate its hiring protocols and ensure compliance with all federal and state laws. "We take our legal responsibilities very seriously," Chief Chard added. "We intend to investigate this matter thoroughly and determine what additional steps may be necessary moving forward." The arrest of Evans follows a similar case from April, in which ICE officers detained another illegal immigrant law enforcement employee in Falmouth, Maine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gratien Milandou Wamba, a 32-year-old Congolese national, was working as a corrections officer when he was apprehended by ICE for immigration violations after allegedly attempting to purchase a firearm illegally. Ice Arrests Illegal Aliens Previously Released In 'Sanctuary' Massachusetts A reserve police officer from Old Orchard Beach was arrested by ICE after attempting to purchase a firearm while residing in the U.S. unlawfully since October 2023. "Officers with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston field office arrested Gratien Milandou Wamba, an illegally present, 32-year-old citizen of Congo," ICE Spokesperson James Covington, noting the arrest stemmed from an unlawful firearm purchase attempt. ICE emphasized that it will continue enforcement efforts across New England, working in coordination with other federal agencies to identify and apprehend individuals in violation of U.S. immigration laws, especially those employed in sensitive public safety positions. Original article source: Illegal immigrant caught working as police officer in Maine while attempting to buy firearm DENVER (KDVR) Consumers are being warned by officials of possible chocolate bars with psilocybin mushrooms inside found at Denver area gas stations and vape stores. Since the city found out about this, it has been sending out notices to all of the vape shops in Denver, letting them know they could face repercussions if they sell these products. A look inside Denvers first licensed psilocybin healing center open to patients Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youre running a store in Denver and you get a letter that says, we guarantee this doesnt have any type of psilocybin, the product of magic mushrooms in it, well, that may not be true as well, said Eric Escudero, communications director for the city and county of Denvers Excise and Licenses department. A warning was sent out to convenience stores, vape shops and gas stations across the metro area, saying in part: These products might not be labeled with their actual ingredients and pose a danger to public health. Chocolate bars labeled West Coast Gold Caps Mushroom Chocolate Bars had made it on the shelves of stores across the metro. Although the chemical can be found in select clinics for use, it is not legal to be sold recreationally. Those are illegal for those businesses to be selling those. In fact, its illegal across Colorado to be selling anything with psilocybin in it, Escudero said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A letter was sent to a store that was supposedly selling the infused chocolate, claiming their products had no psilocybin. Well, after the city conducted the test, we found that letter was false and there was many active ingredients of psilocybin and each chocolate bar, which is very unsafe, Escudero said. Polis announces pardons at worlds largest psychedelics conference in Denver Unsafe and illegal, a message the city is making clear to shops all over the metro area. The city has reached out to all licensed retail tobacco stores in Denver, saying that if they are caught selling these products or similar ones, they will face consequences, which include possible revocation of licensure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The products were destroyed. Its no longer being sold in the city. And were trying to educate stores that might sell these types of products. So they dont fall for that trap, Escudaro said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. INDIAN ORCHARD, Mass. (WWLP) The Immaculate Conception Catholic Church held a mass Monday morning, sending off 20 young adults to Rome to take part in a worldwide Jubilee of Young People. Catholics around the world see this pilgrimage as an opportunity for young people to experience transformation and hope. This special moment during the Holy Year is a celebration of the 2,025th anniversary of the Incarnation of the Lord. In White Sox stadium broadcast, Pope Leo XIV sends message of hope to Chicago and the US Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 22News spoke with one young man becoming a priest. He says he will be guiding a group, and hopes the young pilgrims come back seeing the Lord is not only present in the Eternal City, but also right here in western Massachusetts. Its really important to revel in these graces not only in Rome but also here, said Seminarian Matt Wrona. Bringing that same sort of zeal for pilgrimage back home and bringing to life our parishes in western Mass, The trip lasts from July 28 to August 3, and during that time, the group will visit Holy sites in Rome and travel to the Catholic Pilgrimage site of Assisi. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Armando Gambino Hernandez was laid off in early April after 17 years working at the same pizza factory in Chicago's western suburbs. He learned of his termination from several co-workers, who said owner Nestle was acting on federal orders to fire all employees without legal documentation. Hernandez, 51, originally from Durango, Mexico, does not have legal status to be in the United States. After almost two decades of steady work, he was suddenly forced to start over from scratch. He said more than 600 employees received notice of termination. Hernandez was given no compensation, he said, and wasnt even allowed to retrieve his belongings from inside his locker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I loved my job, said Hernandez, who used to leave his house on the North Side of Chicago before 3 a.m. to make it on time to Schaumburg to prepare the pizza mix. Its been difficult since then. The little money we had saved all of it ran out, the father of four said. Hernandez is one of thousands of factory workers who commute to or live in the suburbs west of Chicago and have felt the economic effects of immigration enforcement intensify since President Donald Trump began his second term in office. Labor organizers in the area say the layoffs are just the beginning. Maybe right now its not very noticeable, but this financial impact will be seen, said Gaby Hernandez Chico, a coordinator at the Casa DuPage Workers Center. These families consume, buy food, buy things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The economic boost from immigrant communities is the invisible backbone of suburbs like Bensenville and Elgin, where for years, people without legal status were hired by various large companies like Nestle without fear of federal enforcement of labor laws. Now, community members say its more challenging to secure a job without proper documentation. Recordings of plainclothes officers raiding factories, approaching vehicles or setting up in vacant parking lots near homes have become commonplace on social media. People leave their homes each day, preparing for the eventuality that they might not return. In a statement sent to the Tribune, a spokesperson for Nestle said that it aims to fill the positions by converting as many of our current temporary workers as possible and through direct hiring, but did not specify how many of the 600 to 700 positions have been filled. Nestle stated it was evolving the staffing model to be comprised of more full-time employees. The spokesperson added that the company complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws, which is why all workers at Nestle in the U.S. must be legally authorized to work in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hernandez, the former Nestle employee, called the Illinois Department of Labor, which reiterated that point. They told me I could come back to work if I had the proper papers, he said. Compliance and consequences For factories and especially bigger operations, there are consequences to having employees without work authorization, though some presidents have enforced those federal mandates more than others. Employers use an online system called E-Verify, which allows them to confirm the eligibility of their newly hired employees to work in the country. Financial penalties for hiring people without a federal I-9 form, officially known as the Employment Eligibility Verification form, can be in the millions, said David Sabathne, chief executive officer of the Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And then theres the perception element of it, he said. If youre a stock company, what do your shareholders say? Immigration advocates, however, argue that big businesses often have the money to protect themselves but not their workers. When workers are arrested or let go, their families are left scrambling to feed their children and pay rent. A round of over 200 layoffs of undocumented workers in early June at Proven Partners Group in South Elgin prompted Northwestern graduate student Ismael Cordova-Clough, 28, to set up a food drive in his garage to support families who were struggling economically. He said he served meals to over 150 people in the community who had family members who had been laid off. One mother he spoke to had several family members who worked at the food packing plant. They were all let go, Cordova-Clough said. A few days later, she told him that her husband had been picked up by federal immigration agents on his way to work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre devastated, he said. Theyre afraid. Proven Partners Group did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the layoffs. Cordova-Clough has been highly involved in responding to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in the Elgin area and often posts videos and photos of ICE arrests in the community on social media, either taken by him or sent to him from Elgin residents. He thinks that companies will use staffing agencies to hire workers without legal status, a maneuver so the companies wont be held accountable for violating labor statutes. Still, that doesnt provide them the longevity of having a regular job, he said. And mind you, none of these jobs are sustainable for undocumented immigrants who are a little bit older. Workplace raids In certain instances, recent immigration raids in the Chicago suburbs have led to the detention of employees who are legally permitted to work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least 20 people were taken into custody from a large gray warehouse operated by Accelerated Global Operations and SpeedX in Elk Grove Village on June 6, according to Kevin Morrison, 15th District Cook County Board commissioner. The companys general manager told him afterward that everyone who was detained had a valid work permit, Morrison said. To this day, no one knows where they are, he added. Their families have not been able to communicate with them. Elk Grove police confirmed that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security had called to inform them that an operation was being conducted at the facility, which typically handles cargo and freight operations. They didnt let us know the nature of what they were going to be doing out there, just that they were going to be having some people out there, said Scott Eisenmenger, Elk Grove Village deputy police chief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local police are prohibited under state law from collaborating with federal immigration officials, and Eisenmenger said the call from Homeland Security was the only official notification his agency received in recent months from the federal agency. Neither DHS nor Accelerated Global Operations and SpeedX responded to the Tribunes requests for comment. Were just asking for you to support us Under Trump, workers rights advocates say they are now spending less time fighting against workplace violations for undocumented workers and more time securing the basic right to work as an immigrant in the U.S. Some companies have proved unwilling to agree to immigration protections for their staff. Just off a quiet residential street in Little Village, more than 100 Teamsters are on strike. Nearly seven weeks ago, they walked off their manufacturing jobs at Mauser Packaging Solutions, where they work reconditioning steel containers used to transport chemicals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The workers are seeking higher wages and improvements to their working conditions, but their union, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 705, also wants Oak Brook-based Mauser to agree not to allow U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials onto workplace property unless they have a signed judicial warrant. So far, the company has refused to do so, said Nico Coronado, the unions chief negotiator. They say that they dont want to break the law, said Arturo Landa, a shop steward at Mauser who has participated in the protracted contract negotiations. We say, we dont want you to break the law. Were just asking for you to support us because we are your workers. Landa is from the state of Veracruz, Mexico, but has lived in Little Village for the last 18 years. Like many of the workers at Mauser, he is his familys breadwinner: He is married with three adult children who live with him, he said. Landa has permission to work legally in the U.S., but still doesnt feel safe. Were scared, really, because of the color of our skin, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mauser did not respond to requests for comment. Though the company has not agreed to the unions demand surrounding ICEs access to workplace property, it has, Coronado said, agreed to contract language that would give workers more time to address any inconsistencies in their I-9 documents and their Social Security numbers. A quiet community In Bensenville, for those who havent lost their jobs or had loved ones lose their jobs, the economic impact of immigration enforcement is still visible in empty commercial corridors, quiet barber shops and shuttered restaurants. Summer weekends, once lively with families in parks and around swimming pools, are quieter now. This slow, steady decline is subtly eroding the fabric of local life. Laundry hangs from balconies at an apartment complex in the southern part of town that, according to residents, has been repeatedly targeted by ICE since Trump took office. Children ride bikes and set up slip-and-slides in the grassy courtyards, surrounded by neatly kept hedges. The complex houses a large Guatemalan community, especially vulnerable to raids, said Cristobal Cavazos, a coordinator at Casa DuPage. During a recent visit, he distributed red Know Your Rights cards and checked in on residents. They reported that ICE has visited seven times in the last five months. Initially, the federal agency was able to detain more residents because they didnt understand their rights, but now they stay inside when they see unfamiliar vehicles on-site. These workers, just five years ago during COVID, were considered essential, said Cavazos. So theres nothing rational about it but then again, racism isnt rational. A woman named Azucena, from Guatemala, sat outside her apartment, balancing her 5-month-old baby boy on her knee. People like us really work ourselves to the bone. You throw yourself into the job, the 30-year-old said, when asked how she thinks the threat of raids has affected the local economy. But now, people in this community, especially mothers, are deciding to skip work and stay home afraid theyll get taken and leave their little ones behind. The Tribune is withholding her last name, as she fears retaliation from federal authorities. ICE did not respond to a request for comment about the raid. Downtown, over a dozen business owners told the Tribune that their clientele has dropped by half because people are scared to walk around outside during the day. A bakery had to close its doors for the day recently after unmarked vehicles were spotted in a nearby parking lot. One new restaurant owner said that if she had known how hard it would be to make a profit, she wouldnt have opened her restaurant at all. Meanwhile, the manager of the Village Flower Shop, Pamela McNabb, said she only has American workers and therefore her business hasnt been affected. She said she agrees with the Trump administrations policies around immigration. Her family is from Italy, and she said that her dad had to come the right way. I dont mind all of us coming together, I just want it to be the ones that we know, she said. Weve got enough pedophiles and criminals here. We dont need any extra. Nestle Most undocumented workers come to the U.S. for work opportunities, meaning they tend to range in ages from 25 to 64, according to the Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit American Immigration Council. Studies cited by the organization indicate that undocumented immigrants are not displacing U.S.-born workers, but rather are filling jobs that few Americans are interested in pursuing in industries like food production and farming. The nonprofit found that in 2023, as an example, about 5% of all workers nationally were undocumented, with a much higher proportion 37% of people filling physically arduous jobs, such as graders and sorters. Last Wednesday afternoon, factory workers walked in and out of the Nestle building in Schaumburg. Two women exchanged plant cuttings. A man sold snacks and chips and played mariachi music in the parking lot. Several people told the Tribune theyd worked there for decades, and that after the layoffs, they have had to do four times the amount of work as before. Jovany Rico, 26, sat on a bench in the hot humidity and waited for his shift to start. He was born in Chicago, he said, but spent his childhood in Mexico, where most of his family is. He came back to the city as a young adult to work. He said some groups of immigrants who have had their temporary legal status stripped by the Trump administration in recent weeks like people from Venezuela and Haiti are affected by the work restrictions more than others. He pointed to a woman getting out of the car who he said is losing her work permit soon. Shes told him she doesnt know what shes going to do. This factory is run by immigrants. They want to stay and work, he said. But thats why the United States is what it is. Sometimes it offers freedom and sometimes it doesnt. Its not always as free a country as it claims to be. Rico has been living and working in Chicago for three years, and now wants to go back to his home country. India's defence ministry has rejected US President Donald Trump's claim of ending its conflict with Pakistan in May, saying the country had not responded to pressure from anyone. Rajnath Singh was speaking at the opening of a parliamentary debate on the 22 April attack in Pahalgam, in Indian-administered Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists. India blamed Pakistan for the attack - which it denied - and launched a series of strikes, named "Operation Sindoor", on its neighbour, leading to four days of intense military action from both sides. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has frequently claimed that the ceasefire between the two nuclear-armed neighbours was brokered by the US - which India has denied. On Monday, Singh reiterated that it was "completely incorrect and baseless to say that the military action was stopped because of pressure". "India halted its operation because all the political and military objectives studied before and during the conflict had been fully achieved," he told the Lok Sabha, the lower house of parliament. He also claimed the decision was taken after a request from Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO), who "pleaded for relief". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was only after this that the Indian Armed Forces decided to pause operations," he added. Islamabad has not commented on Singh's claims. The escalation in May was the worst military confrontation between India and Pakistan in decades, with dozens of people killed in the four-day fighting, before Trump announced a ceasefire between them. Singh said the purpose of India's military action was "to destroy the terror nurseries raised by Pakistan over the years". He said over 100 "terrorists, their trainers, handlers and associates" were killed in coordinated strikes on nine "terror infrastructure targets" in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered-Kashmir in an operation that lasted 22 minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The objective was to provide justice to the families who lost their loved ones in the Pahalgam terror attack," he said. During the proceedings, opposition leaders questioned the government about Islamabad's claim that it shot down five Indian fighter jets and a drone during the conflict. Singh denied this and said India's defence systems had intercepted all incoming projectiles and missiles, adding that no Indian military establishment suffered any damage. He also said the Indian armed forces could resume military action if there was any further "misadventure" from the Pakistan side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier in the day, the Indian army said that it had killed "three terrorists" in a gun battle in Indian-administered Kashmir. Indian TV channels claimed the three were suspected to be behind the April attack - but officials have not confirmed this. Indian investigators have previously said all three militants involved in the deadly attack were Pakistani nationals from the UN-proscribed militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba Follow BBC News India on Instagram, YouTube, X and Facebook. The execution of an Indian nurse convicted of murdering her Yemeni business partner has been cancelled, a leading Muslim cleric involved in negotiations to spare her life has said. The office of the Indian cleric, Kanthapuram AP Aboobakr Musliyar, said on Monday Nimisha Priyas execution had been revoked after a delegation of Yemeni scholars and diplomats mediated with the Houthi administration. Priya, 38, from the southern state of Kerala, was sentenced to death in 2020 for murdering Talal Abdo Mehdi, the co-owner of her clinic in Sanaa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her execution on 16 July was suspended to allow for negotiations led by Mr Musliyar. The death sentence of Nimisha Priya, which was previously suspended, has been overturned," the clerics office announced in a statement. A high-level meeting held in Sanaa decided to completely cancel the death sentence. But unnamed Indian foreign ministry sources told ANI news agency that "information being shared by certain individuals on the Nimisha Priya case is inaccurate". The Indian government told the Supreme Court earlier this month there was nothing much it could do to prevent Priyas execution given the lack of formal diplomatic ties with Yemen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Priya has been held in a Sanaa prison since her arrest in 2017. The nurse was convicted of injecting Mehdi with sedatives in an attempt to retrieve her passport, which he had allegedly confiscated. The dose proved fatal. Her sentence was upheld by the Supreme Judicial Council in 2023. Yemeni law punishes murder by death, as it does drug trafficking, apostasy, adultery, and same-sex relations. The country, however, allows a murder convict to be pardoned by the victims kin in exchange for diyat, or blood money. Priya moved to Yemen in 2008 and eventually launched a clinic in partnership with Mehdi, in keeping with Yemeni law requiring foreign entrepreneurs to collaborate with citizens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her family previously alleged that Priya faced mental, physical and financial abuse at his hands. She had even filed a police complaint against him in 2016, leading to his brief arrest. He allegedly resumed threatening her after getting out. The nurses mother, Prema Kumari, a domestic worker in Kochi city, has been in Yemen for the past year trying to save her daughter. In December, she moved the Delhi High Court for exemption from an Indian travel advisory barring its citizens visiting the conflict-ridden Yemen. She has visited her daughter several times in prison. In an emotional appeal earlier this year, Ms Kumari said she was deeply grateful to the Indian and Kerala governments, as well as the committee formed to save her, for all the support provided so far. But this is my final plea, she added, please help us save her life. Time is running out. NEW DELHI (AP) Three suspected militants killed in a gunbattle in the disputed region of Kashmir were responsible for a shooting massacre in which more than two dozen people died and that led to a military clash between India and Pakistan earlier this year, a Indian government official said Tuesday. The Pakistani nationals were killed Monday in a joint operation by the military, paramilitary and police on the outskirts of Kashmirs main city of Srinagar, Home Minister Amit Shah said in Indias lower house of parliament. The Associated Press couldnt independently verify the details. Rifle cartridges found at the site matched those used during the killings in April, Shah said. The bodies of the men were identified by residents who had provided food and shelter to them before they carried out the massacre, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It wasn't clear whether the locals were considered accomplices. There was no immediate response from Pakistan's government. But state-run Pakistan Radio reported after the gunbattle on Monday that India had planned fake encounters targeting Pakistani nationals held in Indian prisons. It provided no further details. Pakistan has long accused India of staging gunbattles in Kashmir and sometimes pulling Pakistani prisoners from Indian jails and killing them in faked shootouts while passing off them as combatants. New Delhi has regularly rejected these allegations and accused Pakistan of sending armed militants into India and orchestrating attacks. The massacre more than three months ago killed 26 people, mostly Hindu tourists. India blamed the attack on Pakistan, which denied responsibility, while calling for a neutral investigation. It led to tit-for-tat military strikes by India and Pakistan that brought the nuclear-armed rivals to the brink of their third war over the region. Dozens of people were killed on both sides until a ceasefire was reached on May 10 after U.S. mediation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four days of fighting between the nuclear-armed rivals was their worst in decades. Before the April 22 killings in the Kashmiri resort town of Pahalgam, fighting had largely ebbed in the regions Kashmir Valley, the heartland of an anti-India rebellion, and mainly shifted to the mountainous areas of Jammu in the last few years. India and Pakistan each administer part of Kashmir, but both claim the Himalayan territory in its entirety. Militants in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir have been fighting New Delhis rule since 1989. India describes militancy in Kashmir as Pakistan-backed terrorism an accusation that Islamabad denies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many Muslim Kashmiris support the rebels goal of uniting the territory, either under Pakistani rule or as an independent country. Tens of thousands of civilians, rebels and government forces have been killed in the conflict. ___ Munir Ahmed contributed to this report from Islamabad. India has said its security forces killed three militants who shot dead 26 civilians near a tourist town in Indian-administered Kashmir in April, triggering a brief military conflict with Pakistan. Home Minister Amit Shah told parliament the men had been killed by Indian forces near the disputed region's main city Srinagar on Monday. He claimed the attackers were Pakistani nationals, a charge Islamabad denies. The men's identity was confirmed through forensic and ballistic tests, Shah told MPs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pakistan has not commented on the claims, which have not been independently confirmed and come amid mounting criticism of India's government for alleged security lapses in Kashmir. Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the lower house of the Indian parliament on Tuesday [Sansad TV/ANI] Twenty-six men, mostly Hindu tourists, were killed by gunmen who opened fire at a mountain meadow not far from the scenic town of Pahalgam on 22 April, in one of the deadliest attacks in the region in recent years. The victims were killed in cold blood in front of their wives and family members. A local Muslim pony handler who tried to help them was also shot dead. Delhi accused Islamabad of supporting militant groups involved in the attack - a charge Pakistan has repeatedly denied. In May, India launched a series of strikes on sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pakistan responded with drones, missiles and fighter jets, leading to four days of intense military action from both sides. Dozens of people were killed in the bloodiest confrontation between India and Pakistan in decades, before US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between them. Twenty-six people, mostly tourists, were killed in the Pahalgam attack [Getty Images] India's opposition leaders have accused the government of "severe security lapses" and have been questioning why it has taken this much time to catch the attackers. In parliament on Monday, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi demanded that Shah should personally take responsibility for the attack. "The country wants to know why the government has not been able to nab the terrorists even after 100 days since the attack," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shah responded on Tuesday, saying that security forces had "neutralised the three terrorists" involved in the attack in a mission called "Operation Mahadev". The three died in a gun battle in a wildlife reserve in the mountains of Dachigam, about 30km (18 miles) from Srinagar, the Indian army said on Monday. The clash could not be independently confirmed by the BBC. The army did not immediately identify those it killed. But on Tuesday, Shah claimed the men - who he identified as Suleiman Shah, Afghan and Jibran - were Pakistani nationals. "When the terrorists were killed [on Monday], we recovered three rifles - one M9 American rifle and two AK-47s. The cartridges we had collected were also from an M9 and AK-47. We sent the rifles last night to the central forensics lab in Chandigarh where they fired them, and these were then compared and it was confirmed these were the three rifles used in the attack to kill our innocent citizens," Shah said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I have the ballistic report," he told the house, holding up some papers. "Six scientists have cross verified it. They told me this morning on a video call these are 100% the bullets that they had fired." At the beginning of the investigation in May, Indian police had issued sketches of three men, saying two were Pakistanis while one was a local man. But in June, Indian investigators said all three militants were Pakistani nationals from the UN-proscribed militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) after it arrested two locals for allegedly sheltering the suspected militants prior to the attack. However, on Tuesday, Shah clarified that only two men - Suleiman Shah and Afghan - were believed to be LeT members. He did not say which group the Indian authorities thought the third militant Jibran was associated with. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The militants were identified by locals who had provided them shelter, he claimed. "We have voter ID numbers of the two of them, we have weapons recovered from them. The chocolates recovered from them are also made in Pakistan," Shah said. "They killed our tourists and now they have been killed." Shah also defended the speed of the investigation amid questions on how the three men had managed to remain undetected over the past three months. "Right after the attack, we handed over the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA)," he said. "We made all arrangements with the security and border forces to ensure they [culprits] couldn't leave the country." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some opposition leaders, however, remained unconvinced and questioned the lack of security in Pahalgam on the day of the attack. "Why was not even one security personnel present there?" Congress party leader Priyanka Gandhi asked. "Is the safety and security of the citizens not the responsibility of the prime minister, home minister and defence minister?" she asked. Three militants responsible for a deadly attack on tourists in India-administered Kashmir earlier this year have been killed, a senior Indian official told lawmakers on Tuesday. The massacre in April saw gunmen storm a scenic mountain spot in India-administered Kashmir, killing 26 people, mostly Indian tourists. The murder spree sparked outrage across India and triggered a brief but dangerous conflict between India and Pakistan. The militants were killed in a joint operation called Operation Mahadev by the Indian Army, the Central Reserve Police Force and Jammu and Kashmir police officials on Monday, Indias Home Minister Amit Shah told parliament. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those who were responsible for killing our citizens in Baisaran Valley were these three terrorists and all three were killed, Shah said. He told lawmakers all three of those killed were Pakistani nationals. CNN has contacted the Pakistani government for a response. India blamed Pakistan for the attack, which Islamabad denied. New Delhi launched airstrikes on its neighbor in the weeks following, sparking a tit-for-tat military response that claimed lives on both sides of the border. Shah said that Indias intelligence bureau had received information about the trios purported location in Dachigam National Park, on the outskirts of Srinagar city, in May and spent months confirming its veracity before moving in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indias government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been under immense pressure to find and punish those behind the tourist massacre. The trio was killed on the same day the Indian parliament convened a special discussion on Operation Sindoor, the formal name given to Indias retaliatory action against Islamabad following the attack. The disputed region of Kashmir has been a flashpoint in India-Pakistan relations since both countries gained their independence from Britain in 1947. The two nations to emerge from the bloody partition of British India Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan both claim Kashmir in full, despite only controlling parts of it. Months after independence, they fought the first of their three wars over the territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conflict that followed Aprils massacre was India and Pakistans worst in decades, with both sides striking deep into the others territory. After four days of fighting, a ceasefire between India and Pakistan was first announced by US President Donald Trump, who claimed Washington helped secure the deal. India denied US involvement in the talks. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com By Sakshi Dayal NEW DELHI (Reuters) -Indian forces have killed three Pakistanis involved in the April attack on Hindu tourists in the Jammu and Kashmir federal territory in which 26 men were shot dead, Home Minister Amit Shah said on Tuesday. The attackers, who New Delhi said were Pakistani nationals backed by Islamabad, had opened fire in a valley popular with tourists in Kashmir's scenic, mountainous region of Pahalgam, before fleeing into the surrounding pine forests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attack led New Delhi to target what it called "terrorist infrastructure" in Pakistan and Pakistani Kashmir, leading to four days of intense fighting between the nuclear-armed neighbours before they agreed to a ceasefire. "I want to tell ... the entire nation that these were the three terrorists who killed our citizens ... and now all three have been killed," Shah told parliament during a discussion on the India-Pakistan conflict. The three were killed in an intense gun battle in a Kashmir forest on Monday, the Indian army said. Pakistan has denied involvement in the attack - the worst assault on civilians in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks - and sought an independent investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shah said that India had a "lot of proof" that the dead "terrorists" were Pakistanis as security forces had recovered Pakistani voter identity cards of two of them and chocolates made in Pakistan. Forensic tests showed that the rifles they had with them were used in the April attack, he added. Pakistan's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Shah's remarks. The Himalayan region of Kashmir is at the heart of the hostility between India and Pakistan, who have fought two of their three wars over the region, which they both claim in full but rule in part. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Delhi accuses Islamabad of helping Islamist separatists battling security forces in its part of Kashmir, but Pakistan says it only provides diplomatic and moral support to Kashmiris seeking self determination. (Reporting by Sakshi Dayal; Editing by YP Rajesh and Giles Elgood) New Indian restaurant, grocery store now open in Apple Valley originally appeared on Bring Me The News. A brand new spot for aromatic Indian cuisine is now open in the south metro. Spice Village in Apple Valley promises to be a "one-stop shop" for authentic Indian groceries and homestyle meals, offering a wide range of Indian snacks, spices and custom-cut meats in its grocery store. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The restaurant is serving classic Indian dishes such as chargrilled, sizzling hot tandoori chicken and comforting vegetarian fare, such as palak paneer makhani. Kids under 7 can eat for free during brunch service, which starts at 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The India Chamber of Commerce MN (ICOCMN) helped celebrate the business' grand opening last week. "This exciting new Indian restaurant and grocery store is a shining example of our community's entrepreneurial spirit," ICOCMN wrote. "The grand opening was a vibrant celebration of culture, cuisine, and commerce - and we're thrilled to welcome Spice Village to the ICOCMN family." According to the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal, a team of five Indian women are behind the new venture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "At Spice Village, every dish tells a story of heritage, spice, and time-honored tradition," the restaurant's website shares. "From the bold, aromatic curries of the North to the vibrant, coconut-infused flavors of the South, our kitchen is a celebration of Indias rich culinary diversity." The restaurant at Spice Village is open Tuesday-Sunday for lunch from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and for dinner from 5 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 29, 2025, where it first appeared. The Indiana Supreme Court's courtroom. (Whitney Downard/Indiana Capital Chronicle) The Commission on Indianas Legal Future, tasked with brainstorming attorney shortage fixes, has released a final report packed with new recommendations and updates on ongoing initiatives. The Hoosier States rate of 2.26 lawyers per 1,000 residents was 43rd worst in the nation last year, per the American Bar Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 16,000 practice in-state, but the distribution is uneven. Marion County alone hosts more than 6,000 lawyers, almost 40%. When combined with those in seven surrounding counties, they make up more than half the total. Other counties have as few as five. Indianas attorney production pipeline stunted, in particular, by the 2020 closure of Valparaiso Law School has also contributed. The answer is not as simple as more lawyers,' Appeals Court Judge Nancy Vaidik and Supreme Court Chief Administrative Officer Justin Forkner wrote. Many active attorneys have clustered in urban areas. Lawyers in rural counties are generally older. The darkest blue counties have the most attorneys, and the darkest brown counties have the oldest. (Screenshot from Commission on Indianas Legal Future final report) Instead, this challenge needs a complete reevaluation of how legal services are provided in Indiana, the pair, who co-chaired the commission, continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Indiana Supreme Court created the commission in April 2024. The group, published an initial list of budgetary and legislative suggestions four months later, ahead of the Indiana General Assemblys budget-writing session. The final report which was completed July 1 and released last week is open for public comment until August 29 at noon. Progress on interim recommendations Theres already been movement on several earlier proposals. The Indiana Supreme Court approved its Innovation Committees parameters for a new regulatory sandbox program in March. Inspired by a 2020 Utah agency, it would authorize and evaluate non-traditional legal service projects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That pilot program incorporates another recommendation for grants to help launch nonprofit law firms that use lower-cost legal service providers like law students or allied legal professionals. The court has also established uniform definitions of areas with high legal need, including maps of rural counties and legal deserts. A subsidy program for legal practice startups in those needy areas is expected to go live this summer, according to the report. Its for use on expenses that are most burdensome in the startup phase, like rent, utilities, insurance, legal research services, databases, case management software and billing software. Also expected to go live this summer is a student loan repayment assistance program for law school graduates practices in areas of high legal need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A scholarship program for law students who go into public roles was signed into law in May, but lawmakers allotted it no funding amid major spending cuts. The shortage is particularly acute among public prosecutors and defenders because the pay is often too low to pay off law school loans despite the heavy workload. The commission suggested seeking private sector funding. Other ideas also suffered in the cuts. Funding for remote-appearance technologies in local jails was one. It is not clear yet if the Court will have sufficient funds to provide these grant opportunities in the current fiscal climate, the commission wrote of proposal to upgrade technology in local courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It noted that a different potential funding source, the federal Digital Opportunity Grant, was recently suspended by President Donald Trump. New recommendations The commission added several suggestions in its final report. Chief among them was designating someone with the ongoing oversight, marketing, and coordination of the Commissions recommendations so they do not die on the vine.' It will also be vital to centralize information on initiatives and grants on one webpage, the commission added. It also recommended piloting a public service pathway to licensure not easier, and maybe even more demanding, than the current bar exam, but tailored. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The initial parameters provide a tailored path to law licensure for qualified ABA-accredited Indiana-based law-school students who commit to and practice in Indiana for three years after graduation in either a high-needs public-sector field or in a legal desert, the report said. Other proposals are in progress, including some involving the use of artificial intelligence to ease the unsustainable workloads on judicial officers. By automating or simplifying some menial tasks, theyd have more time for duties that require deep thought and expertise. Additional proposals focus on educational and career support: mentorship programs, curricular pathways, boot camps, a public service job board and more. The commission acknowledged that its work was limited, and ended the report with suggestions of what comes next. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Would-be Indiana lawyers need more access to legal educational institutions, it asserted. Some possibilities include reopening Valparaiso Law School, launching Indiana University satellite law schools or widening access to online law school graduates. But many graduates, especially those from Notre Dame and IU Maurer, practice law elsewhere. We must sell the idea of staying and practicing herethe notion that Indiana is a good place to live, the commission wrote. We must promote and market the value of not just being a lawyer, but also the unique importance of being a Hoosier lawyer. Student loan debt was identified as another major problem, because it often pushes graduates into higher-paying corporate careers in urban areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Correction: This story has been updated to show that Indiana has 2.26 lawyers per 1,000 people, rather than per capita, according to the American Bar Association. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Indiana Higher Education Commissioner Chris Lowery announced on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, that he plans to step down in October. (Photo courtesy Indiana Commission for Higher Education) Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education Chris Lowery announced Tuesday that he will step down in October after three years in the role, citing a recent health scare and a desire to pursue personal and professional writing projects. Lowery announced his resignation in a message sent Tuesday morning to university and government officials. His departure will take effect Oct. 10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After considerable thought, contemplation, and prayer, I have decided to step away from my role as Commissioner for Higher Education, Lowery wrote in the email obtained by the Indiana Capital Chronicle. Serving students has been the highest honor of my professional career, and one that has been humbling and blessed. Serving students has been the highest honor of my professional career, and one that has been humbling and blessed. Indiana Higher Education Commissioner Chris Lowery Lowery issued a separate public comment Tuesday afternoon. Serving alongside Commission members and staff, Governor Braun, Secretary Jenner, leaders of our higher education institutions, and our fellow Hoosiers has been a privilege. And, most importantly, serving students has been the highest honor of my professional career, and one that has been humbling and blessed, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lowery, who previously held leadership roles at Ivy Tech Community College and in the private sector, was appointed to the states top higher education post in 2022. He cited a health scare earlier this year that prompted his decision to step down. Everything is ok, but for a brief period I was left unsure and deeply reflective, Lowery wrote. Again, considerable thought, contemplation, and prayer went into this decision. During his tenure, Lowery spearheaded multiple policy overhauls, including a revamped higher education funding formula, a tuition freeze at public colleges, and efforts to simplify student aid access and boost completion rates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He noted, too, that Indianas college completion rates and ranking have improved, up from 14th in the nation to 9th. Even so, Indianas overall college-going rate has fallen in recent years. State data released earlier this month showed just 51.7% of the states 2023 high school graduates enrolled in college, a slight drop from the prior year and far below the states peak of 65% a decade ago. Still, Lowery pointed to improvements in several key areas. He emphasized that the number of students enrolling annually in the states 21st Century Scholars program has grown from fewer than 20,000 to about 50,000 in three years. That is partially due to a move to automatic enrollment. He also said that filing rates for Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, have jumped, as well boosting Indianas rank from 39th in the nation to 15th. That ranking appeared to be outdated, however. The latest nationwide report published by the National College Attainment Network showed Indiana in 17th place for the current FAFSA completion cycle, which is still active. Indiana was 29th for the most recently completed FAFSA year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also under Lowerys leadership, Indiana became the first state to require a regular cycle of review for all of its public institutions degree programs. So far, more than 400 degree offerings have been eliminated, suspended or merged. Lowery additionally highlighted that, for the first time, all public institutions in the state have adopted the commissions recommendation to freeze tuition and fees for two years. He said he plans to support his wife Jerilyns new writing and publishing venture while also feed(ing) my own longtime desire to write and publish works of fiction and nonfiction. Lowery said he would continue to advocate for improved postsecondary attainment in Indiana, which he called the decisive differentiator for economic and social prosperity in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hope grows in Indiana, he said. Please continue to expect the same from me, just from a different place. The 14-person commission will conduct a search and select a replacement. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX JAKARTA (Reuters) -Indonesia has signed a contract to buy 48 KAAN fighter jets from Turkey, the Indonesian defence ministry said on Tuesday, sealing the latest purchase by the Southeast Asian nation aimed at modernising its ageing military hardware. In order to strengthen its air force, Jakarta also ordered 42 French Rafale jets worth $8.1 billion in 2022. It is also considering ordering China's J-10 fighter jets and continues talks to purchase the U.S.-made F-15EX jets. Indonesia and Turkey "signed an implementation contract" last Saturday on the sidelines of the International Defence Industry Fair in Istanbul, defence ministry spokesperson Frega Wenas Inkriwang said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He did not provide details of the contract value or delivery dates. KAAN is Turkey's first national combat aircraft and it completed its first flight in February last year, but serial production is not expected to begin until 2028. Turkey's defence ministry called the jet a fifth-generation aircraft and said it will be powered by two General Electric F-110 engines, which are also used in the fourth-generation Lockheed Martin F-16 jets. Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeedin witnessed the agreement signing, Frega said, adding the contract signing reaffirms the commitment of both governments to strengthen joint technology development and expand Indonesias defence industry capacity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indonesia also signed an MoU with Turkey's TAIS Shipyard to purchase two Milgem Istif class frigates during the defence fair in Istanbul, according to a social media post by Sjafrie late on Monday. The defence ministry did not immediately respond to Reuters' question about details of the frigate deal. (Reporting by Ananda Teresia; editing by Gibran Peshimam and Raju Gopalakrishnan) People do not believe there are or will be lots of green jobs. The unions are alarmed at the pace of job losses in oil and gas, oil refining, steel, ceramics and a wide range of UK industries. Too many British companies are being forced to close plants and sack staff because of high energy prices and net zero policies. In fairness to the Government there are of course new jobs to make batteries, wind turbines and solar panels. Unfortunately most of them are in China so they are not open to Britons losing their jobs at Grangemouth or in UK steel. The UK Climate Change Committee, the unelected body which is in charge of our net zero programme, has been working from a script which is disastrous for the economy. It substitutes imports for most activities that require burning coal, oil and gas. The Committee celebrates the closure of coal and gas power stations so we import more electricity from the EU which still runs coal power stations. The Committee is pleased when blast furnaces shut down here, removing our ability to make high-quality primary steel, but this means we import Chinese or French steel made with coal. The Committee makes us leave our gas in the ground so we import liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Qatar or the USA instead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All this means fewer jobs at home and less UK tax revenue to pay for public services. It undermines national security. Worse still, it is actually self-defeating on carbon emissions. The Committees recommended policies cut the UKs emissions, yes, but they push up emissions globally. For instance the Committee tells me to go and buy a new battery car. That would mean a lot more CO2 added by its production instead of running the diesel car I already own for a few more years. Making any car could involve as much carbon emitted as driving a petrol or diesel car for its whole life, so adopting battery vehicles does not eliminate emissions. Worse still, if I plug my new battery car in to recharge overnight there will be no solar power and maybe no wind either. They might have to burn more gas in a gas power station for me. Instead of enjoying my current 800 mile range on a single tank of fuel I would be suffering range anxiety as I pored over data to see where I might be able to recharge. Another plan is to make us all install heat pumps. These are costly and very disruptive to install as many British homes require insulation and larger radiators as well as just the heat pump. On cold calm days, again, they will have to be powered by burning gas and we would have burned less if we just kept our gas boilers. Plus, telling most people to find the cost of a heat pump is like the fabled French Queens advice to let them eat cake. The craziest green policy is to leave our gas in the ground and import liquefied gas from abroad. The liquefaction process is powered by burning large amounts of gas and the tankers burn fuel to bring the gas to us. The transport and production of LNG creates significantly higher CO2 emissions than using our own piped gas from a UK field. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile our car industry has just hit a 70 year low in output. All sorts of excuses have been used to explain this, but it is difficult to ignore the fact that UK car producers face heavy fines for selling too many petrol cars whilst finding it very difficult to sell battery cars to the general public. Battery cars are mostly bought by fleet buyers offered lucrative tax breaks: this is the only reason the situation is not worse than it is. Expensive, intermittent electrical power is doing big damage to UK industry. Battery cars and heat pumps are not helping. Worse still, our crazy green policies are not even helping the planet: we are simply outsourcing our emissions, not cutting them. No other major economy is following our lead. Global consumption of oil, gas and coal continue to set new records every year. All we are doing is harming ourselves. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. NEED TO KNOW At least 10 children in central Alabama were harmed in a harrowing child abuse case involving sex trafficking and torture, authorities said Some of the children's parents and relatives are among the suspects Two women and five men have been arrested with more arrests expected, according to authorities At least 10 children in central Alabama were harmed in a harrowing child abuse case, in which they were sex trafficked some of them by their own parents or other relatives according to a local sheriff, who also said that that may have been why the abuse went undetected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seven people have been charged so far in connection with the crime operation, which appears to have begun in 2022 in Brent, about 50 miles southwest of Birmingham, Bibb County Sheriff Jody Wade said. Most of the victims were between 3 and 10 years old, and one was 15, Wade said. The children are now in the custody of the state and are receiving medical and psychological support. The abuse occurred in a bunker, which was built as a storm shelter, Wade said. He said the suspects charged people to visit the bunker and abuse the children. Officials began investigating in February after state child welfare officials alerted Bibb County authorities to the possibility of sexual abuse occurring at a home near the bunker. Wade described the bunker as a concrete structure partially underground with a mattress and a toilet. Bibb County Sheriff's Office Im afraid theres going to be more victims and many more suspects, Wade said at a recent news conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those charged include William McElroy, Dalton Terrell, Andres Trejo-Velazquez, Timothy St. John, Sara Terrell, Ricky Terrell and Rebecca Brewer. All but Ricky and Sara Terrell have been charged with human trafficking, while McElroy, Dalton Terrell, Trejo-Velazquez and St. John are also charged with rape, sodomy and kidnapping. St. John also faces charges of bestiality and aggravated cruelty to animals. Sara Terrell is charged with one count of sexual torture and two counts of sexual abuse of a child less than 12 years old. Brewer, the other woman who was arrested, is charged with eight counts each of human trafficking and kidnapping and three counts of sexual torture. The seven are in jail either because they were denied bond at a hearing or were stipulated not to receive one, Bryan Jones, assistant district attorney for the 4th Judicial Circuit of Alabama, tells PEOPLE. Jones says he anticipates Brewer and both Ricky and Sara Terrell will face additional charges once their cases are presented to a grand jury. It was not immediately clear whether any of them had lawyers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is by far the worst case that I've ever had to deal with in terms of the the type of abuse, the length of the abuse, and the ages of the victims that were abused," Jones tells PEOPLE. Wade also said it was the worst child abuse case hed seen in his 33-year career. "Some of the victims, the offenders were their parents and different relatives," Wade said. Related: Bunker of Hell: Men Allegedly Paid to Rape Small Children in Underground Enclosure for More Than a Year The district attorney's office declined to discuss the alleged relationships between the victims and the suspects to protect the identities of the children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the sheriff, the children were sometimes tied to a pole or bound to a bed or a chair in the bunker and were sometimes drugged to make them compliant. Sometimes, there would be multiple people that would come by and victimize these children on a nightly basis," he said. The operation is believed to have brought in up to $1,000 a night. "It's hard to fathom that you could do this to another human being, but what makes it even worse is they're children and their ages," Jones tells PEOPLE. "You're talking about one child that was still either in or just coming out of diapers. It's just unbelievable that somebody could do this to someone that is so small and so innocent." "It's hard to believe," he adds. Read the original article on People Even the most rational, evidence-based person has at least one conspiracy theory that they secretly harbour. Mine is that conspiracy theorists who rail against the establishment and the deep state are actually deep-state actors working for the establishment. How can they not be? They are so abject at promoting their own cause, so effective at driving even the most conspiracy-curious back into the comforting embrace of Big Brother, that some of them surely must be plants. So it was with We Are Not a Conspiracy School (Radio 4, Tuesday), an investigation by documentary-maker Darryl Morris into the Hope Sussex Community the title of the programme tells you the accusation that the home-schooling network/community hub/group of like-minded people is facing. Set up during the pandemic by former BNP activists Matt and Sadie Single, along with former West End performer Katy-Jo Murfin, Hope Sussex is intended to be an alternative to mainstream education. Hope stands for Home of Positive Energy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morris, admirably, wanted to get beyond the lurid headlines about anti-vax crackpots teaching children to fight back against the British state and 9/11 being introduced to impressionable young minds as an inside job. He managed to secure a rare interview with Murfin and the Singles and found three friendly, personable people with deep and understandable reservations about the British education system. A single frazzled 20-something teacher trying to give gold-standard education to a class of 30-plus children with complex individual needs? What parent wouldnt want to take their child out of the bear pit of sensory overload that is the modern British school, especially if that child is visibly struggling? Former BNP activist Matt Single is one of the founders of Hope Sussex Community - Facebook The trio behind Hope Sussex made many strong points children should be taught to research not regurgitate, critical thinking should be promoted above rote learning yet Morris did not have to push too hard to keep finding red flags. Morris had a cold when he arrived at the interview, but Murfin and the Singles chortled that they didnt believe in viruses. Murfin talked eloquently about the benefits of homeschooling, before quoting David Icke and talking about totalitarian tiptoe. When Morris brought up 9/11, Matt launched into a long-debunked theory about the temperature at which steel melts. Schools, he said, teach sexual degradation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They are, they insist, teaching all theories, not just the ones accepted by the mainstream, and as such are raising children who are open-minded, questioning and shrewd. Yet it is very clear which rigid world-view they are passing on to their children one of paranoia, of not trusting any media or politician, of believing that government is a nefarious force. A glance at their social media shows recent events at Hope Sussex include talks by Kate Shemirani, the natural health advocate and struck-off nurse whose daughter Paloma refused treatment for her cancer and died months later, and a festival sponsored by the conspiracy theory website UK Column (The Antidote to Mainstream Propaganda). Matt calls the pandemic a plandemic. Murfin and Sadie might want to encourage Matt away from media opportunities in future. When they spoke warmly of needing somewhere to educate their children, somewhere with outside space, Matt dived in: Our space, where you can lock the gates and, [others] are not permitted here. Any kind of authority. We are raising our children as we see fit, you are not welcome or wanted. Morris, like every other outsider, was not allowed on the grounds of Hope Sussex. Outside are CCTV cameras and signs warning off trespassers. Its overwhelming, sometimes, the sense of love and selflessness that comes from people in the community, said Sadie. Well have to take her word for it. Unavoidably, at times, they sounded like a cult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The great sadness is that they have a point. We shouldnt passively accept everything our government does, we shouldnt live a life devoid of individual thought and research. And our education system is at breaking point. How wonderful it would be if like-minded people in the UK were able to do something to change that, to create an innovative school system that worked for everyone. If our only other option is Hope Sussex, however, I am mainstream brainwashing all the way. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. NAUGATUCK, Conn. (WTNH) The Connecticut Office of the Inspector General has deemed that the use of deadly force by two Naugatuck police officers in April 2024 was reasonable and justified, according to a report released Tuesday. The shooting happened on April 25, 2024. Naugatuck police responded to Baummers Pond Park on Mill Street on reports that a man was pointing a knife at people in the park. Naugatuck man charged after knife incident at park Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the officers approached the man, who was identified as Kyle OCreene, the inspector general said he removed a knife from his pocket and began walking towards the officers. The report stated that OCreene did not comply with orders to drop the knife. According to the report, as OCreene continued to move towards the officers with the knife, several officers unsuccessfully deployed their tasers. The inspector general said OCreene then charged quickly towards one or more of the officers with the knife, which was when Naugatuck officers Crystal Hudson and Joseph Palhete discharged their handguns, striking and wounding OCreene. After OCreene fell to the ground, the report said the officers started life-saving medical aid on him, to which OCreene said, I want to die, and asked the officers, Why didnt you kill me? He survived his gunshot wounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OCreene said in a statement to the inspector general that he was the person who called 911, reporting himself at the park because he wanted the police to kill him. He repeatedly said that he had no intentions of hurting the police officers with the knife, and that he purposely charged at them so that he could force their hand to shoot at me. The report concluded that OCreene was attempting to commit suicide by cop. He was charged in May 2024 with attempted assault on a police officer, carrying a dangerous weapon, interfering with an officer and first-degree reckless endangerment. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. Skagit County Commissioner Lisa Janicki has announced her retirement at the end of 2025, concluding her 11-year tenure serving District 3. Janicki, who was first elected in November 2014, has been instrumental in advancing Skagit Countys efforts to provide high-quality services and create a unified direction for the countys leadership. Commissioner Janickis business expertise and accounting background have been a huge benefit to Skagit County, said County Commissioner Ron Wesen. Skagit County is a better place because of her service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before her election, Janicki served as the Chief Financial Officer for Janicki family businesses, overseeing companies involved in forestry, land development, engineering, and aerospace manufacturing. One of her notable achievements includes being a founding member of North Star, a collaborative initiative aimed at ending homelessness and improving crisis response in Skagit County. Janicki also played a key role in the development of Marthas Place, Skagit First Steps Shelter, and the STAR Center, which provides mental health and crisis stabilization services. Commissioner Peter Browning praised Janickis vision, stating, Her determination has been the reason we have had many successful projects and initiatives during her term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Janicki has represented Skagit County on various boards, including the Department of Natural Resources Board and the Washington State Association of Counties. The process to replace her will involve the Skagit County Democrats selecting candidates, with the final decision made by the remaining commissioners. Drivers in Fargo, North Dakota, on July 28, 2025, are warned about an $80 fine for speeding in a construction zone. Minimum fines for speeding in a construction zone increase to $150 on Aug. 1, 2025. Other speeding fines will increase, too. (Jeff Beach/North Dakota Monitor) North Dakotas interstate speed limit is going up to 80 mph on Friday, but in some areas, the speed limit will go down. The state is lowering the speed limit to 70 mph on interstate segments at Dickinson, Grand Forks, Jamestown, Valley City and Medora. Those areas had previously been 75 mph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The biggest change for people will be slowing down in those areas, and so I think that will be more what well hear about after Aug. 1 than even the 80 miles per hour change, Lt. Jenna Clawson Huibregtse with the North Dakota Highway Patrol said. Bismarck and Fargo have already had slower interstate speeds and those areas are expanding. The 55 mph speed limit in West Fargo will stretch west to the Sheyenne Street exit. The lower speed limit area east of Bismarck will be lengthened by one more exit, to Exit 161. The higher speed limit, along with an increase in fines for speeding, was hammered out in a compromise in the waning days of this years legislative session. Other changes approved by the Legislature affecting drivers include new rules on tinted windows and the availability of what are known as blackout plates license plates with white letters and numbers on a plain black background. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Dakotas rule has been that tinting of windshields and front windows must let at least 50% of the sunlight through. That will be reduced to 35%. Those changes also take effect Friday. While the speed limit is going up, drivers wont see the new signs right away. The contractor hired by the North Dakota Department of Transportation wont be replacing the 75 mph signs with the 80 mph signs until Monday, and it will take at least two weeks for the new signs to go up. Drivers can still go 80 legally though. Its North Dakota law, so people are allowed to drive 80, Clawson Huibregtse said. Many drivers already go 80. She said the average speed on North Dakota interstates is 81 mph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clawson Huibregtse said the faster speeds mean drivers should increase their following distance. You have to give yourself more time to stop if something occurs in front of you or somebody jams on their brake, she said. The bill that increased the speed limit also increased speeding fines, but with a simpler calculation for those fines, which Clawson Huibregtse said is a benefit to state troopers. She said troopers previously had to consult about 10 different tables to calculate the speeding fine. This simplified it down to two plus your special zones like construction zones and school zones, so significantly less cumbersome, she said. It did increase fine fines a little bit, but we are still the cheapest state in the nation to get a speeding ticket. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There also are increased fines for areas such as school zones and construction zones. The additional fine for speeding in a construction zone with workers present would increase from $80 to $150. For highways with a speed limit of 65 mph or higher, the fine will be $20 or $5 for every mile per hour over the limit, whichever is greater. If the driver is going more than 16 mph over the limit., $20 is added to the fine. A driver ticketed for going 95 mph in a 80 zone would be fined $75; but if the ticket is for 96 mph, the fine jumps up to $100. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX My name is Matthew Titus, and I am a senior at Gig Harbor High School doing Running Start through Tacome Community College. I am interested in becoming a lawyer when I am older, and I talk with my dad about topics such as how high taxes in Washington State have become. I was excited to hear different politicians viewpoints. Meeting Rep. Michelle Caldier, R-Gig Harbor, seemed like it might be very intimidating. However, I was excited to get to understand more about her. She was very kind and open to discussing questions I had. It was a very special experience for someone my age to have a conversation with someone like her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Caldier told us how important it will be if she is re-elected that Republicans are back in the room when budgets are being discussed. She also explained how out of reach it is for young adults to become future homeowners. This is something that concerns me because someday I want to own a home. She made me think differently about how much people know about where their tax dollars are going. There isnt much budget clarification for the public. She will best represent people who are business owners in Washington. Interviewing Sen. Deb Krishnadasan, D-Gig Harbor, was also an exciting experience. Ive come to realize how empathetic of a person she is. I also was curious to see how different interviewing Krishnadasan would be from Caldier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But I was pleasantly surprised that both were very kind and open to questions I had. Krishnadasan enlightened me on the complexity of how schools are able to get federal funding. She shared a recent federal situation that has since been revised, when the federal administration halted funding for public schools. This shocked me because I had no idea of the severity of budget problems, such as schools being unable to hire teachers to work this school year. She also shared that, 4-6% of Peninsula School Districts funding comes from federal (government). This is a small percentage; however, schools have no savings which makes this a bigger deal then it seems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schools have to do more with less. Krishnadasan made me think differently and want to understand why the funding for schools is so complex. Krishnadasan will best represent people who want to improve schools in Washington. After meeting both candidates, I encourage everyone to do their research on these two strong candidates and go out and vote in the primary. This is one in a series of five op-eds submitted by students of private teacher Mimmi Beck, who interviewed local politicians. They will run over the next three weeks. Waco, Tx (FOX 44) A 19-year-old man was held following a traffic crash that left his female passenger lying on the ground with broken bones Monday. An arrest affidavit stated that Anthony Dwayne Massey was booked into the McLennan County Jail on a charge of intoxication assault after a hospital blood draw was conducted on a judges warrant. The arrest affidavit stated that officers had been dispatched to an injury accident near Washington Ave and University Parks Drive with officers being told while on the way that there was a person lying on their back outside the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When officers arrived they found the female passenger on the ground being tended to by first responders. The affidavit stated multiple witnesses reported seeing a male driver of the car speeding and possibly racing a black vehicle when he appeared to lose control, colliding with a guardrail, concrete boulder and a tree. The affidavit stated that the driver was identified as Massey and stated he initially ignored officers trying to talk with him. The officers reported a strong odor of alcohol and said Massey was stepping away from them and becoming confrontational. The affidavit stated that while stepping away he began stumbling and almost falling. The affidavit stated that when officers attempted to take him into custody, he fought with them. Officers stated he was too combative for ambulance personnel to take him to the hospital, so he was taken there in a patrol unit, with the warrant obtained for a blood draw. The affidavit stated that while at the hospital they checked on the condition of the female passenger who had already been transported and were told she had a broken clavicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After being medically cleared, Massey was transported to the McLennan County Jail on the intoxication assault charge with an added charge of resisting arrest. He remained in jail Tuesday afternoon. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. BOWIE, Md. (DC News Now) Bowie police urged the community to avoid the Race Track Road area as officers conducted an investigation. Details remain limited; however, in a post on X just after 10 a.m., the Bowie Police Department stated that there is police activity near Race Track Road, between Old Chapel and Old Barn Road. As of Tuesday morning, neighbors in the community were asked to avoid the area until the scene is cleared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quick lunch stop yields $50K lottery win for Prince Georges County truck driver This incident is isolated, and there is no perceived threat to the public, wrote police in a post on social media. In an update around 12:30 p.m., the police department announced that all roads had reopened and the police activity had cleared. This is a developing story. Check DCNewsNow.com for updates. To keep up with the latest news and weather updates, download our Mobile App on iPhone or Android. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. MADISON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) The Madison County Sheriffs Office is investigating after a woman was found dead at the jail on Friday. MCSO said Erica Laine Adams, 41, was found unresponsive in the facilitys infirmary at around 4:30 p.m. after deputies responded to a report of an unresponsive female inmate. Emergency medical personnel with HEMSI were immediately dispatched to the scene. The sheriffs office said that despite their efforts, Adams was pronounced dead on the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to MCSO, Adams was arrested by the Huntsville Police Department on July 24 and had been booked into the Madison County Jail on a third-degree criminal trespass charge. Due to underlying health issues, Adams was housed in the facilitys medical infirmary upon her arrival, MCSO said. In accordance with standard protocol, detectives with the Sheriffs Office Major Crimes Unit initiated a death investigation and responded to the detention facility. An MCSO spokesperson said that preliminary findings from that investigation revealed no signs of foul play and showed that the death appeared to have been a result of natural causes. Then, Adamss body was transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for autopsy, where MCSO said preliminary findings also found no indications of foul play or drug overdose and that the cause of death was still consistent with natural causes. An in-custody death is always a difficult and emotional situation for everyone involved, from our detention staff and medical personnel to the emergency responders who are called to assist. We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ms. Adams and extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Sheriff Kevin Turner The investigation remains ongoing, and the sheriffs office said no further information is available at this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. HONOLULU (KHON2) The Hawaii State Federal Credit Union awarded $23,000 in grants for Hawaiis public-school classrooms. The Investing in Education grant program awarded 47 public school teachers statewide with up to $500 to purchase essential classroom supplies and fund educational projects. Local high school takes bold step to develop Hawaiis future workforce Supporting education is one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in the future of our communities, Del Mochizuki said, senior vice president and chief of staff at Hawaii State FCU. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said grants were distributed across the state, with approximately: 26% awarded to Honolulu-area teachers 23% awarded to Central Oahu-area teachers 19% awarded to Leeward Oahu-area teachers 18% awarded to teachers on Maui and Molokai 8% awarded to Windward Oahu-area teachers 5% to teachers on Hawaii Island and Kauai Public school teachers give so much of themselves to create bright futures for their students, often reaching into their own pockets to fill critical needs. We are proud to stand with them and help ease that burden so they can continue to inspire and prepare the next generation, Mochizuki said. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You This grant was awarded to eligible teachers through an application process where they described their classroom needs, the grants potential improvement for education, and why other funds were not an option. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 20009, Hawaii State FCUs Investing in Education program has delivered more than 1,000 grants totaling nearly $500,000 for public school teachers. Hawaii State FCUs Scholarship program has given more than $1 million to local students and helped them pursue a higher education. Check out more news from around Hawaii Here is the list of winners for the 2025 Investing in Education Grant. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. HONOLULU (AP) A major hurricane was churning across the Pacific Ocean but was several hundred miles south-southeast of Hawaii and posed no threat to the islands, forecasters said Tuesday. Hurricane Iona is one of two major weather systems in the central Pacific Ocean. In its latest advisory, the Miami-based U.S. National Hurricane Center said Iona was about 735 miles (1,180 kilometers) away from Honolulu, with maximum sustained winds near 125 mph (205 kph). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additional strengthening was forecast later on Tuesday, with steady weakening expected to begin by Wednesday. Iona was moving west at 14 mph (22 kph). Hurricane Iona is the first named storm of the hurricane season in the central Pacific and emerged Sunday from a tropical depression. It continues to trek west over warm, open waters. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Keli has maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 kph), the NHC said Tuesday morning. It was about 790 miles (1,270 kilometers) southeast of Honolulu and was moving west at about 15 mph (24 kph). No coastal watches or warnings were in effect for the storms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administrator of the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency on Monday hosted a statewide conference call with all counties, during which the National Weather Service provided an assessment and status of the storms. All counties are monitoring, agency spokesperson Kiele Amundson said in an email. Another indirect impact from the weather systems could be swells, but they are relatively small and moving westward and wont create anything significant, said Derek Wroe with the weather service in Honolulu. However, a large swell is headed toward Hawaii after being generated several hundred miles east of New Zealand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its expected to arrive in Hawaii by Thursday, about the same time the storms pass the state. People might wrongly attribute the swell energy to be from these tropical systems, but theyre actually not, he said. Attorney Brian Jorde gives his argument in front of the Iowa Supreme Court on Oct. 8, 2024, at the historic Iowa Supreme Courtroom at the Iowa State Capitol. (Pool photo by Cody Scanlan/The Des Moines Register) The Iowa Supreme Court Attorney Disciplinary Board reprimanded Brian Jorde, an attorney who has represented hundreds of landowners in lawsuits against pipelines, including Iowa and South Dakota landowners opposed to the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline. The disciplinary board wrote in the reprimand that Jorde presented information that was misleading or deceptive during Iowa and South Dakota utilities commission proceedings regarding permit applications for the carbon sequestration project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jorde, part of Domina Law Group out of Omaha, represented 155 landowners in the Iowa Utilities Commissions evaluation of Summit Carbon Solutions permit application to construct more than 600 miles of a pipeline carrying liquid carbon dioxide sequestered from biorefineries across the state. The pipeline would travel through Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota and eventually be stored in underground rock formations in North Dakota. In the Iowa permit proceedings, Jorde filed pretrial testimony on behalf of landowners, including Nancy Dugan. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Dugan had filed her own information in the IUC proceedings as well and, according to the reprimand, had been in contact via email with Jorde. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jorde also represented landowners in the South Dakota Public Utilities Commissions hearings on Summits permit application. According to the records provided in the reprimand, he asked for and received Dugans permission to submit some of her research that had already been submitted in the IUC dockets, to the South Dakota hearings. Jordes filings on behalf of Dugan, however, included introductory written testimony, which Dugan later said, in an email to Jorde obtained by the advisory board, were not statements I would choose to submit. The reprimand said Dugan did not approve these written statements. The statement submitted in South Dakota had an electronic signature at the bottom, but the IUC document had not been signed by Dugan. Dugan clarified in her email to Jorde that she was not a landowner and was worried about being called to testify. Jorde, in response, said the filing with the IUC must have happened inadvertently by staff who filed a number of pretrial testimony. He assured Dugan he did not intend to call her to testify, according to the included emails. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In subsequent emails, Dugan asked Jorde to retract the statement, or allow her to submit a revised version that included her actual responses. According to the reprimand, Dugan later learned the same statements had been submitted in South Dakota and again emailed Jorde asking him to refrain from filing any affidavits on her behalf unless it was something she had written or reviewed or approved. In April 2024, months after the IUC hearing occurred Dugan brought up the issue again to Jorde asking him to rescind the statements from the IUC record, according to the reprimand. Jorde said the pretrial testimony was not used in the hearing and therefore not part of the record, so he was unsure what action the IUC would take. He later said to the board the filing was not material information to the proceedings, the reprimand states. If I file a request to have it deleted for instance that will bring more attention to something Summit and others are not even thinking about now, Jorde said in an email excerpt included in the letter from the advisory board. According to the advisory board, Jorde contacted the IUC about removing the testimony, but did not contact the South Dakota commission about the issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The written testimony attributed to Dugan was not used in the commission hearings in either state. Dugan brought the issue to the attention of the IUC council and Nebraska attorney disciplinary authorities, where the matter was brought to the Iowa Supreme Court Attorney Disciplinary Board. The board concluded the actions in South Dakota were deceptive and wrote it was deeply concerning that Jorde and his staff did not mention to Dugan the extra pages filed in addition to the research she had consented to filing. The board was less clear on its ruling on the Iowa document because Jorde claimed it was inadvertently submitted, which was enforced by the blank notarization. The board found it troubling Jorde did not withdraw the filing upon learning it had been inadvertently filed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The board concluded that the severity of the misrepresentation issues did not rise to level of many previously prosecuted matters, but the duty of candor is one of the most basic and fundamental obligations we require of lawyers. Jorde did not file any exceptions to the reprimand within the allowed 30-day window, meaning the reprimand was made final and public according to the document. In a message to Iowa Capital Dispatch, Jorde said his focus remains on his clients. I decided not to contest this matter and have moved on, Jorde wrote. There is no further disciplinary action beyond the public reprimand. Federal appeals court denies request for rehearing A federal appeals court denied a rehearing petition Monday from Iowa counties involved in a case against Summit Carbon Solutions regarding a countys ability to enact local pipeline ordinances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shelby and Story County supervisors petitioned the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eight Circuit for an en banc rehearing earlier this month following the judges ruling in favor of Summit in June. One judge dissented in the majority opinion that all of the ordinances set by the counties would be preempted by the Pipeline Safety Act. An en banc rehearing, as requested by the counties and supported via amicus briefs from the states of Minnesota, Michigan, Oregon, Vermont and from Pipeline Safety Trust, would require a rehearing of the case with all 11 active judges at the appeals court. The order denying the petition for rehearing did not include any additional information or opinion from the judge. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Brian Jorde, a lawyer for landowners, argues a carbon pipeline case before the South Dakota Supreme Court on March 19, 2024. (Dave Bordewyk/South Dakota NewsMedia Association) The Iowa Supreme Court Attorney Disciplinary Board reprimanded Brian Jorde, an attorney who has represented hundreds of landowners in lawsuits against pipelines, including Iowa and South Dakota landowners opposed to the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline. The disciplinary board wrote in the reprimand that Jorde presented information that was misleading or deceptive during Iowa and South Dakota utilities commission proceedings regarding permit applications for the carbon sequestration project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jorde, part of Domina Law Group out of Omaha, represented 155 landowners in the Iowa Utilities Commissions evaluation of Summit Carbon Solutions permit application to construct more than 600 miles of a pipeline carrying liquid carbon dioxide sequestered from biorefineries across the state. The pipeline would travel through Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota and eventually be stored in underground rock formations in North Dakota. In the Iowa permit proceedings, Jorde filed pretrial testimony on behalf of landowners, including Nancy Dugan. Dugan had filed her own information in the IUC proceedings as well and, according to the reprimand, had been in contact via email with Jorde. Jorde also represented landowners in the South Dakota Public Utilities Commissions hearings on Summits permit application. According to the records provided in the reprimand, he asked for and received Dugans permission to submit some of her research that had already been submitted in the IUC dockets, to the South Dakota hearings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jordes filings on behalf of Dugan, however, included introductory written testimony, which Dugan later said, in an email to Jorde obtained by the advisory board, were not statements I would choose to submit. The reprimand said Dugan did not approve these written statements. The statement submitted in South Dakota had an electronic signature at the bottom, but the IUC document had not been signed by Dugan. Dugan clarified in her email to Jorde that she was not a landowner and was worried about being called to testify. Jorde, in response, said the filing with the IUC must have happened inadvertently by staff who filed a number of pretrial testimony. He assured Dugan he did not intend to call her to testify, according to the included emails. In subsequent emails, Dugan asked Jorde to retract the statement, or allow her to submit a revised version that included her actual responses. According to the reprimand, Dugan later learned the same statements had been submitted in South Dakota and again emailed Jorde asking him to refrain from filing any affidavits on her behalf unless it was something she had written or reviewed or approved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In April 2024, months after the IUC hearing occurred, Dugan brought up the issue again to Jorde asking him to rescind the statements from the IUC record, according to the reprimand. Jorde said the pretrial testimony was not used in the hearing and therefore not part of the record, so he was unsure what action the IUC would take. He later said to the board the filing was not material information to the proceedings, the reprimand states. If I file a request to have it deleted for instance that will bring more attention to something Summit and others are not even thinking about now, Jorde said in an email excerpt included in the letter from the advisory board. According to the advisory board, Jorde contacted the IUC about removing the testimony, but did not contact the South Dakota commission about the issue. The written testimony attributed to Dugan was not used in the commission hearings in either state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dugan brought the issue to the attention of the IUC council and Nebraska attorney disciplinary authorities, where the matter was brought to the Iowa Supreme Court Attorney Disciplinary Board. The board concluded the actions in South Dakota were deceptive and wrote it was deeply concerning that Jorde and his staff did not mention to Dugan the extra pages filed in addition to the research she had consented to filing. The board was less clear on its ruling on the Iowa document because Jorde claimed it was inadvertently submitted, which was enforced by the blank notarization. The board found it troubling Jorde did not withdraw the filing upon learning it had been inadvertently filed. The board concluded that the severity of the misrepresentation issues did not rise to level of many previously prosecuted matters, but the duty of candor is one of the most basic and fundamental obligations we require of lawyers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jorde did not file any exceptions to the reprimand within the allowed 30-day window, meaning the reprimand was made final and public according to the document. In a message to Iowa Capital Dispatch, Jorde said his focus remains on his clients. I decided not to contest this matter and have moved on, Jorde wrote. There is no further disciplinary action beyond the public reprimand. Federal appeals court denies request for rehearing A federal appeals court denied a rehearing petition Monday from Iowa counties involved in a case against Summit Carbon Solutions regarding a countys ability to enact local pipeline ordinances. Shelby and Story County supervisors petitioned the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eight Circuit for an en banc rehearing earlier this month following the judges ruling in favor of Summit in June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One judge dissented in the majority opinion that all of the ordinances set by the counties would be preempted by the Pipeline Safety Act. An en banc rehearing, as requested by the counties and supported via amicus briefs from the states of Minnesota, Michigan, Oregon, Vermont and from Pipeline Safety Trust, would require a rehearing of the case with all 11 active judges at the appeals court. The order denying the petition for rehearing did not include any additional information or opinion from the judge. Iowa Capital Dispatch is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Iowa Capital Dispatch maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kathie Obradovich for questions: info@iowacapitaldispatch.com. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Fox News that Tehran cannot give up on its uranium enrichment program which was severely damaged during the Israel-Iran war last month. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Tuesday that Western demands over Tehran's nuclear program are an excuse to confront the Islamic Republic, a day after US President Donald Trump warned about renewed strikes if Iran restarts nuclear work. "Nuclear programme, enrichment, human rights are all excuses ... What they are after is your religion and knowledge," Khamenei said. Iran pushes to continue enriching uranium Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Fox News that Tehran cannot give up on its uranium enrichment program, which was severely damaged during the Israel-Iran war last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is stopped because, yes, damages are serious and severe. But obviously we cannot give up (on) enrichment because it is an achievement of our own scientists. And now, more than that, it is a question of national pride," the foreign minister told the Fox News show "Special Report with Bret Baier" on Monday. Pictures of Iranian military commanders, nuclear scientists and others killed in Israeli strikes are displayed in Behesht Zahra Cemetery in southern Tehran, Iran, July 11, 2025 (credit: Majid Asgaripour/WANA/via Reuters) The foreign minister said the damage to the nuclear facilities in Iran after US and Israeli strikes was serious and was being evaluated further. Araghchi also said Khamenei was in "good health" and that Tehran was open to talks with Washington but that those will not be direct "for the time being." BAGHDAD (AP) The prime minister of Iraq has kept his country on the sidelines as military conflicts raged nearby for almost two years. This required balancing Iraq's relations with two countries vital to his power and enemies with each other: the U.S. and Iran. The feat became especially difficult last month when war broke out between Israel, a U.S. ally, and Iran and the U.S. struck Iranian nuclear sites. Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said he used a mix of political and military pressure to stop armed groups aligned with Iran from entering the fray. In an exclusive interview with The Associated Press, Al-Sudani discussed those efforts along with his intentions of keeping those groups in check going forward and as he seeks a second term why he wants to get closer to the Trump administration, even as he maintains strong ties to Iran-backed political parties that helped propel him to power in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Staying on the sidelines as Israel and Iran traded blows After Israel launched airstrikes on Iran and it responded by firing missiles at Tel Aviv, armed groups in Iraq attempted to launch missiles and drones, al-Sudani said. But they were thwarted 29 times by Iraqi government security operations that he did not detail. He did not specify the intended target of the missiles and drones, but in the past, factions in Iraq have fired toward Israel and at bases in Iraq housing U.S. troops We know that the (Israeli) government had a policy and still does of expanding the war in the region, al-Sudani said. Therefore, we made sure not to give any justification to any party to target Iraq." Al-Sudani said his government also reached out to leaders in Iran "to urge them toward calm and to make room for dialogue and a return to negotiations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The future of the US presence in Iraq is in flux The U.S. and Iraq last year announced an agreement to wrap up the mission of an American-led coalition in Iraq fighting the Islamic State and in March al-Sudani announced that the head of IS in Iraq and Syria had been killed in a joint Iraqi-U.S. operation. The first phase of the coalition's drawdown was supposed to be completed by September 2025, but there has been little sign of it happening. Al-Sudani said the U.S. and Iraq will meet by the end of the year to arrange the bilateral security relationship between the two countries. He also hopes to secure U.S. economic investment in oil and gas, and also artificial intelligence which he said would contribute to regional security and make the two countries great together." A variety of militias sprung up in Iraq in the years after the 2003 U.S. invasion that toppled former autocratic leader Saddam Hussein. And since the war between Israel and Hamas began in October 2023, sparking regionwide conflicts, an array of pro-Iran armed factions have periodically launched strikes on bases housing U.S. troops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Al-Sudani said the presence of the coalition forces had provided a justification for Iraqi groups to arm themselves, but that once the coalition withdrawal is complete, there will be no need or no justification for any group to carry weapons outside the scope of the state." The fate of Iran-backed militias in Iraq is unclear One of the most complicated issues for al-Sudani is how to handle the Popular Mobilization Forces, a coalition of mostly Shiite, Iran-backed militias that formed to fight IS. This coalition was formally placed under the control of the Iraqi military in 2016, although in practice it still operates with significant autonomy. The Iraqi parliament is discussing legislation that would solidify the relationship between the military and the PMF, drawing objections from Washington. The State Department said in a statement last week that the legislation would institutionalize Iranian influence and armed terrorist groups undermining Iraqs sovereignty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Al-Sudani defended the proposed legislation, saying it's part of an effort to ensure that arms are controlled by the state. Security agencies must operate under laws and be subject to them and be held accountable," he said. Indications of weak state authority In recent weeks, a series of drone attacks have targeted oil facilities in northern Iraqs semiautonomous Kurdish region. Kurdish regional authorities accused groups in the PMF of carrying out the attacks. Authorities in Baghdad disputed this, but haven't assigned blame. Al-Sudani called the attacks a terrorist act and said his government is working with Kurdish authorities and coalition forces to identify those responsible and hold them accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just as the drone attacks have called into question Baghdad's control over armed groups, so has the case of Israeli-Russian researcher Elizabeth Tsurkov, who went missing in Iraq in 2023. Her family believes she is being held by the Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah, and there have reportedly been U.S.-mediated negotiations to negotiate her release. Al-Sudani did not name the group responsible for Tsurkovs kidnapping, but he pushed back against the idea that his government has not made serious efforts to free her. He said his government has a team dedicated to finding her. We do not negotiate with gangs and kidnappers, he said, but the team has been in discussions with political factions that might be able to help locate her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rebuilding relations with Damascus Relations between Iraq and the new government in Syria have been tenuous since the fall of former President Bashar Assad in December, after a lightning offensive led by Sunni Islamist insurgents. Syria's interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa was formerly known by the nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani. He once joined the ranks of al-Qaida insurgents battling U.S. forces in Iraq after the U.S.-led invasion in 2003. Al-Sharaa still faces a warrant for his arrest on terrorism charges in Iraq. Al-Sharaa has since broken with al-Qaida and has fought against the Islamic State. Al-Sudani said his government is coordinating with the new Syrian government, particularly on security matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We and the administration in Syria certainly have a common enemy, ISIS, which is clearly and openly present inside Syria, he said. Al-Sudani said his government has warned the Syrians against the mistakes that occurred in Iraq after Saddam's fall, when the ensuing security vacuum spawned years of sectarian violence and the rise of armed extremist groups. In recent weeks, sectarian violence in Syria has shaken the country's fragile postwar recovery. Al-Sudani called for Syrias current leadership to pursue a comprehensive political process that includes all components and communities. We do not want Syria to be divided," he said. "This is unacceptable and we certainly do not want any foreign presence on Syrian soil, apparently alluding to Israel's incursions into southern Syria. A collection of more than 800 Iron Age artefacts found in a North Yorkshire field has now found a permanent home. The Melsonby Hoard is believed to be one of the UK's largest finds from the period, and was discovered by metal detectorist Peter Heads and excavated with the help of Durham University. The Yorkshire Museum has now secured the acquisition of the hoard, through public fundraising and a 192,096 grant from the National Heritage Memorial Fund. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr Andrew Woods, head of research and collections at York Museums Trust, said the discovery went beyond "a once in a generation find". "The museum has been collecting for 200 years and we have nothing like this, nothing like this has quite been found in the UK before," he said. "So to be able to put that into the collection, to share that with people, to tell new stories is one of the best days of my career." The initial discovery was reported to the authorities in December 2021 and site excavation started the following year, with the support of the British Museum and a grant from Historic England. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amongst the findings, archaeologists from Durham University unearthed the partial remains of more than seven wagons and chariots, along with horse harnesses and ceremonial spears. Earlier this year, after preservation and study at Durham University, the Yorkshire Museum launched a fundraising campaign to secure the hoard for its collections. Dr Woods added he was "blown away" by the public response to the online fundraiser, which raised 54,000 in donations from the public, bolstered by the National Heritage Memorial Fund and 20,000 in other donations. Kathryn Blacker, chief executive of York Museums Trust, said the museum was delighted at the opportunity to secure the future of "a significant piece of Yorkshire's history". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Thanks to the incredible support of the National Heritage Memorial Fund, as well as generous donations from members of the public, the hoard will remain here in Yorkshire, to be made available for everyone to see and to enjoy," she said. "We remain committed to researching and conserving these unprecedented finds to improve our understanding of our shared past and securing them for future generations." Dr Woods explained that the acquisition was only "the beginning of the story" for the artefacts. "Keeping the hoard close to where it was found, in the region, alongside other objects in the collection also from the Iron Age means we can tell the story of the North," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added that after further preservation and research projects, the hoard would be publicly displayed in the museum. Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North. More on this story Related Internet Links Nafisehs only mistake was showing her wrist. The 17-year-old was shopping for clothes with her friends in Kabul when Taliban officers grabbed her, pulling her hair as they threw her into the back of a waiting van. The men with long beards and American rifles slung across their shoulders beat her all the way to the police station west of Afghanistans capital, her uncle said. By the time they reached the police station, Nafisehs complete black hijab the covering that should have protected her according to the Talibans laws was stained with her own blood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She did nothing wrong, her uncle said, his voice carrying the weight of a generations helplessness. She was wearing a complete black hijab from the Arabs. They arrested her anyway. When Nafisehs father arrived at the police station, the Taliban officers turned their rage toward him, their fists finding a new target in his desperate flesh. As soon as he arrived, they started beating and insulting him, the uncle explained. They told him why, first he let his daughter go out without a man, then why her wrist was visible. To secure Nafisehs release, her father was forced to sign a pledge a document promising to restrict her movements even further than before. Woman and girls are forced to wear long black coverings - ATIF ARYAN/AFP via Getty Images Dozens of women and girls, aged 16 to 27, were arrested across at least six neighbourhoods this week alone, with the Taliban claiming they were not wearing the hijab properly. But witnesses told The Telegraph that girls were being arrested even when they did follow the strict dress code like Nafiseh. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The systematic round-up of women in Kabul represents an escalation in the Talibans crackdown, with the victims families threatened into silence. Its also a far cry from the image Taliban officials are trying to present to the West when encouraging tourists to visit the nation. Credit: Sourced from Aamaj News In the labyrinthine alleys of Kabul, terror now wears the uniform of virtue police an equivalent of the notorious morality police across the border in Iran. Witnesses describe scenes of armed jihadists chasing girls through narrow streets, with their victims running terrified and crying, seeking refuge in doorways that offer no protection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was Saturday, and a group of women were walking, one witness told The Telegraph. Of course, their male guardians were not always around to accompany them, but they needed to go and buy groceries. Then I saw girls running through the alleys, terrified and in tears, with Taliban fighters chasing after them. I asked what was happening, and people said the Taliban were arresting any girl they found on the street. The girls were scrambling in all directions. I watched as the Taliban beat them and forced them into a van. It was heartbreaking. One of my relatives was even wearing a mask, but they arrested her too. Because Afghanistan is such a traditional society, my uncles family refuses to talk about her detention. She was held for two days. Now shes deeply depressed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the girls were also arrested simply for being outside after dark. Police detain a young woman who they said was not complying with the Talibans hijab rules In western Kabul, authorities have begun issuing public warnings via loudspeakers, instructing residents to comply with hijab regulations. At checkpoints near busy commercial areas, officials from the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice have been seen monitoring womens clothing and detaining those they deem non-compliant. The Orwellian body has employed women to monitor Instagram pages and report instances where other women dare show their faces online. They are needed to handle other women, an official from the ministry said. Girls wearing hijabs with decorations, bright colours banned by the Taliban or with strands of their hair showing are frequently targeted Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vehicles with tinted windows have been stationed near alleyways and shops and restaurants, ready to bundle women and girls away to be questioned. Many are taken to the Intelligence Directorate, where they can be held for up to three months regardless of whether any formal charges are brought. One woman, beaten and detained for hours, returned home to a family too scared to speak of her arrest. She doesnt speak and stays in bed all the time. Were really worried about her, her brother said. Were afraid she might harm herself theres so much pressure on women here. He added: They arrested her just for wearing a small plastic flower on her headscarf. The Taliban called us in. She wanted to become a doctor, then they closed universities and when she hung out with her friend, they arrested her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They humiliated me and my father, filmed us, and forced us to say on camera that we wouldnt let my sister go out alone again. In Afghanistans traditional society, a womans violation becomes the familys dishonour, creating a conspiracy of quiet that serves the Talibans purposes. We are like caged birds A former university student described life for women in Afghanistan as being like a caged bird, just waiting for men to decide when to feed us. She said one of her friends took her own life a few months ago but her family refused to call it suicide as they saw it as a humiliation. This isnt living were just breathing inside our homes, with no access to anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Taliban want us all dead. Their problem is with our gender. The entire government is focused on controlling women so men dont go to hell by looking at us. Women have been ordered not to speak loudly inside their homes, lest their voices escape and tempt men outside. Zahra Haqparast, speaking from exile in Germany, says in the Talibans view, youre a criminal by being a woman Zahra Haqparast, a dentist and womens rights activist who was imprisoned by the Taliban in 2022 and now speaks from exile in Germany, said: No woman goes out in Afghanistan without a hijab. The Talibans problem is women themselves. As a woman, you do not need to commit a crime. In the Talibans view, youre a criminal by being a woman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The temperature in Kabul can reach 45C in summer. But the Taliban requires women to wear long black coverings in this heat, turning the simple act of existing outdoors into physical torture. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Two major Israeli human rights groups released separate reports on Monday concluding that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, joining a growing number of international voices that have made similar accusations against the country that has been destroying the Palestinian territory over the last 22 months. In their comprehensive reports, BTselem and Physicians for Human Rights lay out how Israel, as an occupying power, has used its government and military to systematically obliterate Gaza in a way that both destroys the Palestinian people and renders the territory completely uninhabitable. We are seeing a combination of genocidal practices meaning mass killing, starvation and destruction of civilian infrastructure, and you can add destruction of cultural institutions and a policy whose aim or declared aim is ethnic cleansing, all combined with statements by many senior Israeli officials throughout the war that the goal is destruction of Gazan society as a group, genocide researcher Shmuel Lederman said in a BTselem video announcing the groups report, Our Genocide. Yuli Novak, executive director of B'Tselem, speaks at a press conference announcing the Israeli human rights group's new report concluding that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, in Jerusalem, on July 28, 2025. Maya Alleruzzo via Associated Press As with previousallegations of genocide, the Israel Defense Forces said Monday that the reports claims are unfounded and that the Israeli military is rooting out Hamas while taking unprecedented measures to prevent harm to civilians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both human rights groups have said that wanting to take down Hamas does not justify the mass starvation and killing of Palestinians. BTselem explains that while decades of Israeli occupation and dehumanization of Palestinians set the stage for the current catastrophe, a genocide requires a trigger or rationale and for the Israeli government and its Western allies, that was Hamas attack that killed more than 1,200 people in Israel and took hostage about 250 more on Oct. 7, 2023. The trauma fell on fertile ground for the most extreme right-wing government Israel has ever had. A messianic government that believes this is a miraculous time, said Sarit Michaeli, the groups international advocacy director. Its simply their chance to advance an agenda. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth during an arrival ceremony at the Pentagon on July 9, 2025. Mehmet Eser/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images Both reports detail the violence by Israeli soldiers and U.S. bombs that has killed more than 55,000 Palestinians a Gaza Health Ministry figure believed to be a gross undercount and led to mass starvation, displacement and disease. The Israeli airstrikes, Gazas destroyed health system, Israels blockade of humanitarian aid and mass arrests that have essentially resulted in torture camps reveal an effort to exterminate the Palestinian people, the groups argue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Systemic failure became self-reinforcing: displacement led to overcrowding, overcrowding accelerated disease, and disease spread unchecked amid collapsing sanitation, PHRI said in its report, A Health Analysis of the Gaza Genocide. The siege deepened this collapse: medical evacuations were halted, crossings were sealed and the little remaining humanitarian aid dried up entirely, it continued. Malnourishment surged especially among children, whose bodies deteriorated rapidly in the absence of food, water and medical care. Palestinians who lost their relatives in Israeli attacks mourn as the deceased are brought to Nasser Hospital in Gaza's Khan Younis on July 28, 2025. Abed Rahim Khatib/Anadolu via Getty Images The reports conclude that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has met at least some of the articles of the U.N.s 1948 genocide convention, but stress that the world must also recognize the violence as genocide and stop it, even if the International Court of Justice has yet to issue a final ruling on South Africas charge that Israel is committing genocide. PHRI warns that even if Israel stopped its offensive today, the decimation of health care and life-sustaining infrastructure has already ensured the Palestinian people in Gaza wont recover for years. BTselem warns that unless the world immediately puts a stop to Israels campaign of violence, the genocide it concludes has been occurring in Gaza will also encompass the Palestinian people in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and in the State of Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Preventing genocide is not just a moral duty. It is also a legal obligation. So the leaders cooperating with Israels policies are accomplices to this crime, Michaeli said. People and governments must use every means available under international law to make the Israeli government stop the genocide in Gaza now. Related... On Saturday night, the Israeli Defense Forces surrounded, beat, and choked American labor leader Chris Smalls as they unlawfully boarded the Handala, the most recent aid ship trying to reach Gaza as part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. Smalls was the only Black person on the flotilla and was punished much more severely than any of the other 20 members detained. When he reached the Israeli prison, U.S. human rights defender Chris Smalls was physically assaulted by seven uniformed individuals, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition announced Tuesday morning. They choked him and kicked him in the legs, leaving visible signs of violence on his neck and back. When his lawyer met with him, Chris was surrounded by six members of Israels special police unit. This level of force was not used against other abducted activists. We condemn this violence against Chris and demand accountability for the assault and discriminatory treatment he faced. Pretty hard to believe that the particularly heinous and brutal treatment Christian Smalls was subjected to by Israeli authorities was not a function of racism given it was not inflicted on other Handala detainees, University of New Brunswick professor Nathan Kalman-Lamb wrote on Bluesky. And the US media dgaf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smalls entered the public eye in 2022 after successfully founding a labor union at a Staten Island Amazon factory, garnering national praise and even a White House invitation from President Biden. Now he remains beaten and battered in IDF custody. The IDF targeting the one Black man on the aid ship is sadly unsurprising, as is the lack of uproar from U.S. politicians and large media outlets. Yet another U.S. citizen assaulted and detained by the IDF, yet not a peep from either side of the aisle because Smalls is a Black American leftist who was standing up to Israels campaign of mass starvation and trying to deliver baby food and flour to suffering Palestinians in Gaza. Im thinking of Chris Smalls. And about how, because hes Black, no Greta Thunberg, no celebrity, no darling of the liberal class, he might not make it out alive, author Camonghne Felix wrote on X. Blackness, when vulnerable and on its knees, is a white supremacist fantasy. While smaller unions have spoken up to condemn Smallss arrest, Teamsterswhich worked with Smalls on the Amazon Labor Unionhas yet to make a statement on his violent detainment, failing spectacularly to meet the moment.* Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Smalls and other flotilla members remain in IDF custody, the coalition plans to send another aid ship very soon, yet another direct challenge to the Israeli government. We are calling on others around the world, definitely our countries, to live up to their obligation of enforcing international law, of protecting human rights, but also other institutions that are founded to do the same, said Huwaida Arraf, a Palestinian American attorney and Handala member who was released from IDF custody due to her Israeli citizenship. We should not be waiting for Israel to give permission for food or other humanitarian aid to enter we need to be breaking, challenging and breaking the blockade. And our governments not only have not been doing anything about it the U.S. government did not make contact with any of the seven American citizens on board, but the [others], like France, Spain, Italy, contacted their citizens on board and told them that they are ready to provide consular services when Israel kidnaps us, which we found to be completely obnoxious, she added. They were legitimizing Israeli piracy on the high seas. And that is unacceptable to us. And that is the kind of impunity that our governments, all governments, really, have been allowing Israel to just violate international law. *This piece has been updated to correct a description of Teamsters. Jordanian and Emirati planes have dropped another 52 pallets of food over the Gaza Strip, the Israeli military said on Tuesday. Egyptian planes also took part in the airdrops for the first time since Sunday, when Israel began allowing increased aid into the sealed-off Palestinian territory after months of restrictions, the military said. The Israeli military on Sunday announced it was implementing daily "humanitarian" pauses in fighting to allow for new aid to be safely distributed in the embattled strip, amid increased international pressure over warners of imminent famine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The military said Egypt, Jordan and the UAE were coordinating the airdrops with Israel. Aid organizations including Doctors Without Borders have criticized the method as ineffective and expensive compared to lorry aid deliveries. They also note the danger posed to waiting civilians by the dropping pallets, which are attached to parachutes. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday said two military aircraft were on their way to Jordan from where they would also begin airdropping aid into Gaza. Israeli air defences successfully intercepted a missile fired from Yemen on Tuesday evening, after alarms sounded across central Israel and Jerusalem, the military said. The military gave the all clear, saying there were no reports of injuries or major damage. Since the start of the Gaza war in October 2023, the Iran-backed Houthi militia has regularly attacked Israel with missiles and drones in what it says is an expression of solidarity with the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas. In their most recent attack, the Houthis fired a missile at Israel last weekend, which was also intercepted by Israeli air defences without any reports of injuries or damage. The child's older brother is shown standing nearby, looking distressed but relatively healthy. Their mother also does not appear to be suffering from any symptoms of starvation. Trigger warning: This article discusses sensitive topics such as starvation, sick children. A picture of a skeletal dying child in the Gaza Strip, whose picture has been used in world media to claim Israel is starving Gazan children, is actually due to the child suffering from cerebral palsy, Israel's official X/Twitter account confirmed on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The child, Muhammad Zakariya Ayyoub al-Matouq, is shown in a condition highlighting how sick he is, being coddled by his mother. However, the post on X also shows his older brother standing nearby, looking distressed but relatively healthy. Their mother also does not appear to be suffering from any symptoms of starvation. "BBC, CNN, Daily Express, and The New York Times spread a misleading story using a picture of a sick, disabled child to promote a narrative of mass starvation in Gaza playing into the hands of Hamas's propaganda war," Israel accused. "Without proper disclosure. Without medical context. Without journalistic ethics," the post concluded. COGAT revealed a different child also suffering from genetic disorder used in starvation propaganda On Monday, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) revealed that a different Gazan child with a genetic disorder, whose photo went viral over claims of starvation, had been evacuated from the Gaza Strip in June and is receiving care in Italy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Five-year-old Osama al-Rakab, along with his mother and brother, were evacuated through the Ramon airport on June 12, COGAT revealed. Tragic images rightfully stir strong emotions, but when theyre misused to fuel hatred and lies, they do more harm than good, COGAT wrote in a statement. Dont let compassion be exploited for propaganda. Check the facts before parroting blame. IDF brings aid into Gaza The IDF, led by the Coordinator for the Government's Activities in the Territories (COGAT), facilitated the entry of 52 aid packages into the Gaza Strip on Tuesday afternoon, the military confirmed. The UAE, Jordan, and Egypt all cooperated in the aid packages, which contained food for residents in both the south and north of the enclave, the military noted. The aid packages were airdropped, the military clarified. 'My hope is that Israel will help me and all the Druze. What is happening in Syria has not stopped, and we dont expect help from anyone else.' the family's mother said. An Israeli-Druze doctor at Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, discovered that a Syrian-Druze family evacuated from Sweida being treated at the hospital were family members he had never met, a spokesperson for Rambam Health Care Campus announced on Tuesday. The family members, a woman and two children, had been evacuated. During the violence, the family's father was killed, the mother and 16-year-old daughter were moderately injured, and the six-year-old son suffered "severe injuries with multiple fractures and gunshot wounds." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were treated in a local clinic, where their condition worsened, and were transferred to Rambam Health Care Campus for treatment. A relative connected the family name of the patients to the family name of the doctor, who was working a night shift at the time, and was summoned to the trauma room, the spokesperson added. "My father came to Israel in 1947 as a very young man, but he left his whole family behind, brothers, sisters, parents," the doctor said. Syrian Druze fly Israeli flag in Sweida, July 16, 2025. (credit: SCREENSHOT/X/VIA SECTION 27A OF THE COPYRIGHT ACT) "He always told us about the village he came from and the family, and we received indirect messages from them over the years, but we never met. Suddenly, Im standing in the trauma room, speaking with a direct relative who shares the same last name as mine, and I could feel my hair standing up from the excitement," he added. 'I felt at home, with family,' in Israel "I felt like I was in a place that felt like home, with my family. The tension of being in a hospital in a foreign country eased, thank God," the family's mother shared. "My hope is that Israel will help me and all the Druze. What is happening in Syria has not stopped, and we dont expect help from anyone else," she added. A Palestinian activist, journalist and community leader has been shot and killed in front of a community centre in a village near Hebron, in occupied West Bank - a village which was documented in the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land. Local officials have said that an Israeli settler killed Awdah Hathaleen, who helped make No Other Land. The film, a joint Palestinian-Israeli production directed by Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, chronicles the struggle by residents to stop the Israeli military from demolishing their villages in Masafer Yatta. It won Best Documentary at the Berlinale last year and at the Oscars this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Basel Adra and Yuval Abraham confirmed the tragic news, with Abraham sharing a video on X showing the Israeli settler identified as Yinon Levi breandishing a handgun and shooting. Abraham described Awdah as a remarkable activist who helped us film No Other Land in Masafer Yatta, while Adra said on social media: My dear friend Awdah was slaughtered this evening. He was standing in front of the community centre in his village when a settler fired a bullet that pierced his chest and took his life. This is how Israel erases us one life at a time. The Palestinian Authoritys education ministry accused Israeli settlers in the West Bank of killing Hathaleen, writing on social media that he was shot dead by settlers... during their attack on the village of Umm al-Khair near Hebron. Israel's military said an armed Israeli civilian opened fire at a group of Palestinians after they threw rocks. Israeli police responded to the incident, but no charges have been filed against Yinon Levi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Levi was previously sanctioned by the US and the European Union in 2024 for his violent attacks on Palestinians. The Trump administration lifted the sanctions earlier this year. Levi remains under both EU and UK sanctions. The Israel-Hamas war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on 7 October 2023, killing some 1,200 people and taking 251 hostage. Fifty hostages are still being held, although fewer than half of them are believed to be alive. Israels subsequent offensive has resulted in the deaths of more than 60,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza Health Ministry, whose figures do not distinguish between fighters and civilians. The Israeli military says nearly 900 of its soldiers have died since the start of the war. A prominent Palestinian activist who had worked on an Oscar-winning documentary was killed on Monday during an attack by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, according to local journalists and officials. Odeh Hathalin, who was a consultant on No Other Land, a film that documents Israeli settler and military attacks on the West Bank community of Masafer Yatta, was shot in the village of Umm al-Khair, in that same community. Yinon Levi, an Israeli settler whose US sanctions were lifted by the Trump administration in January, was arrested at the scene and released on house arrest on Tuesday, his lawyer told reporters. Israeli police said in a statement without naming Levi that an Israeli citizen was taken into custody for questioning on suspicion of reckless conduct resulting in death and unlawful use of a firearm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hathalins shooting was first reported by Yuval Abraham, the Israeli investigative journalist who co-directed No Other Land. A video shared by Abraham on X showed Levi firing a gun multiple times as he confronted Palestinian villagers. CNN geolocated the video to the site of the incident. In the video, Levi carrying a handgun, standing in front of a bulldozer is seen grappling with a villager and pushing away the man filming him. He then begins to fire to his side and in the air, then moves towards the handful of Palestinians. The villagers soon begin to run away. It was unclear from the footage what Levi was shooting at. Another video obtained by CNN showed a man who appeared to be Hathalin bleeding on the ground. The Palestinian health ministry said later he had died of his injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Levi was sanctioned by the Biden administration and the European Union last year but was removed from the US sanctions list shortly after President Donald Trump took office this year. In its initial sanctions announcement in April 2024, the US Department of Treasury State Department said that Levi regularly led groups of violent extremists who engaged in actions creating an atmosphere of fear in the West Bank. It added that groups led by Levi assaulted Palestinian civilians, threatened them with additional violence if they did not leave their homes, burned their fields, and destroyed their property. Many settlers are armed, and violence in the West Bank has surged since the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023. At least 964 Palestinians have been killed since then by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, according to the United Nations, as of July 15th. Settlers have a strong influence on Israeli politics, and in the rare cases where they are arrested for violent attacks against Palestinians, they are often released without charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jewish settlements in the Israeli-occupied West Bank are illegal under international law. Alaa al-Hathalin, Hathalins cousin, told CNN that Levi was known to the community because he always attacks us. Al-Hathalin described how, as a group of villagers confronted Israeli settlers who were operating a bulldozer, Levi came with the gun and started shooting and shot Odeh in the chest. Al-Hatahlin said his cousin had three sons, aged 5, 3 and seven months. Levis lawyer Avichai Hajbi criticized the police for arresting his client and claimed the investigating unit itself admitted that the shooting was carried out due to a life-threatening situation faced by Yinon Levi and another individual. His client was attacked by a mob throwing stones, endangering his life and that of others, Hajbi said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police petitioned a local court to extend Levis time under arrest. During the hearing, they described the incident as taking place as Levi and a minor near the settlement of Carmel in the West Bank finished up excavation work. The two were attacked by a large number of rioters who threw stones at them in an attempt to harm the minor, who was driving, and the respondent. It appears that their lives were in danger, the police told the court. At a certain point, the respondent used his firearm and fired shots, as a result of which, allegedly, a person nearby was killed. Since the report of the incident, the investigating unit has conducted many investigative actions However, several investigative steps still require the respondents continued detention due to concern over obstruction of justice, the police said. The court denied the extension. Ofer Cassif, a left-wing member of Israels parliament, has demanded that authorities launch an investigation into Hathalins death. The incident occurred in broad daylight, in front of cameras, with no fear of legal consequences testament to the paralysis of law enforcement and the complete sense of immunity enjoyed by violent settlers, Cassif wrote in a letter to Israels Attorney General. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Basel Adra, a Palestinian journalist and a co-director of No Other Land, shared testimony to his dear friend Hathalin. He was standing in front of the community settler in his village when a settler fired a bullet that pierced his chest and took his life. This is how Israel erases us one life at a time, Adra wrote in a post on Instagram. Last month, Hathalin was detained at San Francisco International Airport upon arrival and deported after immigration officials revoked his visa, local media reported. He had been invited to visit a California synagogue as part of an interfaith speaking tour. CNN reported in March that settlers had also targeted Hamdan Ballal, another co-director of No Other Land, outside his home in the village of Susya, also in Masser Yatta. Ballal, who had recently returned from Los Angeles to accept an Oscar for the film, told CNN he thought the group of settlers would kill him. He said he was detained by Israeli soldiers, handcuffed, blindfolded and beaten. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The film No Other Land, which tracked the destruction of the Masser Yatta community between 2019 and 2023, won Best Documentary Feature Film at the 2024 Oscars. Its final scene shows Adras cousin, Zakara al-Adra, being shot by an Israeli settler in October 2023. Previous reporting from CNNs Kara Fox, Kareem Khadder and Jeremy Diamond. This article has been updated with new reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A court in Israel has released to house arrest an Israeli settler accused of fatally shooting a Palestinian activist in the occupied West Bank. The suspect, identified as Yinon Levi, was placed under house arrest on Tuesday after a Magistrate Court in Jerusalem declined to keep him in custody. Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported that Levi faced charges of manslaughter and unlawful firearm use in connection with the killing of 31-year-old Palestinian activist and English teacher Awdah Hathaleen, who was shot dead on Monday night in the village of Umm al-Kheir, south of Hebron. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hathaleen was well known for his activism, including helping the creators of the Oscar-winning film No Other Land, which documents Israeli settler and soldier attacks on the Palestinian community of Masafer Yatta. Footage published by Israeli human rights group BTselem appears to show Levi opening fire on Hathaleen during a confrontation in the village. Despite the visual evidence and prior sanctions imposed on Levi by both the European Union and the United States over past attacks on Palestinians, Israeli authorities released him to house arrest. US President Trump removed the penalties against Levi and other settlers accused of extremist violence after assuming office in January. Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham, one of the co-directors of No Other Land, said that while Yinon was released on house arrest, Hathaleens family were arrested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After killing Odeh, Yinon pointed at his family and instructed soldiers to arrest 4 of them, Abraham said in a post on X. They are still jailed while he was just released for house arrest. A system which punishes the victims (who are under military law) and rewards the shooter (who is under civilian law), Abraham added. Palestinian journalist Basel Adra, who co-directed No Other Land, earlier wrote about his killing on social media. My dear friend Awdah was slaughtered this evening, Adra wrote. He was standing in front of the community centre in his village when a settler fired a bullet that pierced his chest and took his life, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is how Israel erases us one life at a time. Co-director Abraham described Hathaleen as a remarkable activist who helped us film No Other Land in Masafer Yatta. Abraham also posted a video of the incident and said that residents identified Yinon Levi, sanctioned by the EU and US, as the shooter. This is him in the video firing like crazy, Abraham said. Odeh just died. Murdered. https://t.co/rRWqSa48iN Yuval Abraham (@yuval_abraham) July 28, 2025 Israeli police acknowledged that they were investigating an incident near Carmel [al-Karmil], an illegal Israeli settlement neighbouring Umm al-Kheir. An Israeli citizen was detained at the scene and then arrested by police for questioning, a police statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli soldiers also arrested four Palestinians in connection with the incident, along with two foreign tourists who were at the scene, the police said. Following the incident, the death of a Palestinian was confirmed; his exact involvement in the incident is being verified, the police added. The Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that a second Palestinian was injured in the attack after being beaten by a settler. He was taken to hospital by ambulance, Wafa added. Hathaleen was from Masafer Yatta, a string of Palestinian hamlets located on the hills south of Hebron, where residents have fought for decades to remain in their homes after Israel declared the area an Israeli military firing or training zone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their efforts to prevent Israeli forces from destroying their homes were the subject of No Other Land, which won best documentary at the Oscars in March. Hathaleens killing comes as Israeli human rights organisation BTselem released a report on Monday accusing Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. BTselem also said that there has been an unprecedented spike in daily attacks by settlers, often armed and equipped with full military gear, on Palestinians in the West Bank. These attacks include arson, theft, home invasions and takeovers, armed threats, beatings, and more, BTselem said, and occur with the support of the Israeli government and law enforcement agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About three million Palestinians live in the occupied West Bank, alongside nearly half a million Israelis living in settlements, which are illegal under international law. Earlier, the Palestinian Ministry of Health said that 27-year-old Mohammad Samer Suleiman al-Jamal succumbed to his wounds after being shot by Israeli forces at a checkpoint at the northern entrance to Hebron on Monday night, the Wafa news agency reported. The Israeli forces left Suleiman al-Jamal to bleed to death and prevented ambulance crews from reaching him, Wafa added. Israeli soldiers and settlers have killed more than 1,000 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank since the start of Israels war on Gaza in October 2023. More than 30 Israelis, including civilians and soldiers, have been killed in the occupied West Bank during the same period. The owners of the pastures on Seceda, in the municipality of Santa Cristina, South Tyrol, installed a turnstile as a symbolic sign against mass tourism - Josef Dorfmann/ANSA Holidaymakers are being charged to hike on a public footpath in the Dolomites as Italian farmers protest against over-tourism. Four farmers have set up a turnstile on a route that winds through meadows and hay barns on top of the Seceda, a mountainous plateau in the German-speaking South Tyrol province. It leads to a view of the Odle mountain massif and has become increasingly popular with visitors, with 8,000 people flocking there on a single day last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fed up with receiving no money from the tourists, the farmers installed the turnstile and now demand 5 per person for access to the path. It is a highly controversial initiative because it contravenes the long-established right to roam through the mountains. There are only a very few places in Italy where walkers are charged an access fee, including the Via dell Amore or Path of Love on the Cinque Terre coastline in the northwestern region of Liguria. Critics say the turnstile could be the thin end of the wedge, arguing that if it was allowed to remain, other farmers in the Dolomites and the Alps may be tempted to do the same thing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The turnstile was initially set up for a brief period in July, with the farmers saying it was a deliberately provocative move that they hoped would spur the authorities to help them. They closed it down for a while, but when nothing was done, they reactivated it this week. View of Seceda, a spectacular mountain and popular tourist attraction in the Dolomites of Italy - Judith Quinn/iStockphoto Its a cry for help, said Georg Rabanser, one of the owners of the land that the path traverses. The mountain is accessed by a cable car that carries hikers in the summer and skiers in the winter. We were hoping for a call from the provincial government but we received nothing, just hot air, nothing of substance. We didnt even receive a cease and desist order. The authorities need to understand that while the cable car operators receive huge amounts of money from the invasion of tourists, we dont make anything and yet we have to bear the cost of damage done to our land and the rubbish that is left behind by badly behaved visitors, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local authorities say the turnstile is of dubious legality. We dont understand on what legal basis the entrance ticket is being charged. It seems the owners just want to make some money, said Lukas Demetz, the president of the tourist association in the local town of Santa Cristina, which is known in German as St Christina in Groden. A land of turnstiles Four rangers have been recruited to help manage the flow of tourists and to make sure they behave responsibly. The situation has improved notably and even the problem of litter is not as bad as the farmers are claiming, he told Alto Adige, a local newspaper. Carlo Alberto Zanella, the head of the regional branch of the Club Alpino Italiano or Italian Alpine Club, said that access to the mountains should remain free for everyone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont want South Tyrol to become a land of turnstiles, he said. It is unthinkable that every owner of land which is crossed by footpaths should start charging a toll for access. The debate over the turnstile comes as Italys mountains experience a tourist boom this summer, with many holidaymakers forsaking their traditional beach holidays because of scorching temperatures blamed on global warming. Italy was hit by an intense heatwave in June and since then, many parts of the country have baked in temperatures of 40C or more. The huge number of visitors has led to a high number of accidents in the Dolomites, with more than 80 hikers, bikers and paragliders dying so far this summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was another fatality on Tuesday a 65-year-old woman fell to her death from a narrow path in the mountains near the village of Molveno in the Dolomites. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. MILAN (AP) Prosecutors in Italy are investigating an attack against a Jewish man and his young son at a highway rest area north of the city of Milan as a possible hate crime. The incident started after someone noticed the 52-year-old French tourist and 6-year-old son were wearing a kippah, a Jewish head covering, when they stopped on Sunday evening to use the restroom about 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of Milan. The Milan daily Corriere della Sera reported on Tuesday that the man filmed as people started yelling: Free Palestine. He fell to the ground, where he was kicked and punched, while his attackers tried to wrest his smartphone from him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities are reviewing video surveillance of the scene. The victim told Corriere della Sera that he was en route back to Paris after dropping his older daughter and her Italian husband off in Milan when a cashier at the rest stop started yelling Free Palestine, and was quickly joined by customers who yelled murders and genocide. The man said he was attacked after he and his son left the basement restroom. The newspaper did not identify the man, and did not describe his injuries. A female bystander defended the child, who was distraught after the incident, his father said. The attack only stopped when the man called for police, who arrived after 10 minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Daniele Nahum, a Milan city councilor, denounced the attack during a Milan city council meeting on Monday, saying the antisemitic situation is becoming unmanageable. The Milan-based Antisemitism Observatory reported that antisemitic incidents in Italy nearly doubled last year to 877, from 454 in 2023. Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara has announced he will run for a fourth term in October's election. In a statement, the 83-year-old said his health was not an issue and his candidacy was driven by a need to "preserve national stability amid ongoing security and economic challenges". Ouattara argues a new constitution approved in 2016 reset his two-term limit, meaning he is allowed to stand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He will be the poll's frontrunner, as several potential challengers have already been barred from the race. The excluded candidates include former President Laurent Gbagbo, ex-Prime Minister Guillaume Soro, and former minister Tidjane Thiam. On Tuesday, Thiam and other opposition leaders swiftly denounced Ouattara's decision to run. "Today's announcement by Mr Ouattara constitutes a violation of our Constitution and a new attack on democracy," Thiam said in a statement. "The Ivorian people will continue to make their voices heard and show the world what we think of this situation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the same day Ouattara announced his bid, authorities banned a peaceful protest planned for 7 August. The demonstration was organised by opposition groups in order to demand the reinstatement of disqualified presidential candidates and an independent audit of the voter list. Former banker Ouattara will be hoping his track record propels him to victory in October - for four successive years Ivory Coast's economy has grown by more than 6%. However, the country is currently experiencing widespread disillusionment with the country's political establishment. Current tension over the exclusion of opposition candidates evokes memories of past electoral violence, including the 2010-2011 conflict that left over 3,000 dead and the unrest triggered by Ouattara's controversial third-term bid in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 8.7 million Ivorians have registered to vote. Civil society groups and religious leaders, including the Catholic Bishops' Conference, have expressed alarm at growing political polarisation in the country. You may also be interested in: [Getty Images/BBC] Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent. Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica BBC Africa podcasts ABIDJAN (Reuters) -Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara's decision to seek re-election in October means the world's top cocoa-producing nation will again have to wait on his promise to pass the baton to a new generation of political leaders. But the 83-year-old former international banker is hoping a strong economy and a weak field of challengers will propel him to a fourth term, extending a period of relative stability after the civil war that brought him to power in 2011. Ouattara made his announcement on Tuesday, saying his health was not an issue. With the country's most high-profile opposition politicians ruled ineligible, he is the clear front-runner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A U.S.-trained economist whose resume includes stints as governor of the West African central bank (BCEAO) and deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Ouattara has long pitched himself as a savvy technocrat capable of delivering steady growth. The numbers back him up, with the IMF projecting GDP to increase to 6.3% this year, in line with the average over the past decade. He has also proved himself to be a deft political operator, striking deals that have eased his two previous re-election bids and avoided a repeat of the widespread violence that followed his election win over predecessor Laurent Gbagbo in late 2010. Gbagbo's refusal to accept defeat in that contest triggered a brief civil war that killed more than 3,000 people and only ended with his arrest in a bunker at his Abidjan residence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ouattara's "primary success has been on the macroeconomic side" and restoring Ivory Coast's "international influence," said political analyst Arthur Banga. But "there are still democratic challenges to overcome," he added, citing lingering fears of election-related violence. "This means there is work to be done to achieve normalcy." POLITICAL VIOLENCE Born in Dimbokro in central Ivory Coast on January 1, 1942, Ouattara received a doctorate in economics from the University of Pennsylvania. He earned a reputation for competent economic management as prime minister under founding President Felix Houphouet-Boigny, whose name evokes decades of agricultural export-led prosperity that built palm-lined boulevards and skyscrapers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Houphouet-Boigny's death in 1993, combined with economic challenges related to structural adjustment and the devaluation of the regional currency, gave rise to a more toxic period in Ivorian politics. Following a coup in 1999, Ouattara was excluded from running for president the following year on the grounds that one of his parents was from Burkina Faso. Gbagbo, who won that election, called Ouattara "a candidate for the foreigners". A 2002 rebellion against Gbagbo split the country in two, leaving its northern half in the hands of rebels, many of them from Ouattara's Dioula ethnic group. The war was largely a result of xenophobic policies by successive Ivorian governments against migrant farmers from Burkina Faso and Mali that also targeted northern Ivorians with cultural ties to them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the 2010 election, Ouattara formed a pact with former President Henri Konan Bedie that helped secure his victory in the runoff against Gbagbo. Five years later, with Gbagbo awaiting trial at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Ouattara reaffirmed his alliance with Bedie and coasted to re-election with 83% of votes cast. In 2020, Ouattara initially vowed not to run again, but he went back on that after his preferred successor, then-Prime Minister Amadou Gon Coulibaly, died several months later. Ouattara argued that a new constitution approved in 2016 reset his two-term limit, though his opponents disagreed and boycotted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clashes between rival supporters before and after the 2020 vote killed 85 people, officials later said. This time around, the most viable opposition candidates, including Gbagbo and former Credit Suisse chief executive Tidjane Thiam, have been excluded from the ballot, meaning Ouattara could again win by a comfortable margin. This could give him more time to ensure the economic gains of his tenure so far are more evenly shared, said political scientist Geoffroy Julien Kouao. Ouattara has "succeeded in establishing peace after a decade of crisis," he said. "However, much remains to be done in terms of wealth distribution to reduce social inequalities." (Reporting by Loucoumane CoulibalyWriting by Robbie Corey-BouletEditing by Bate Felix and Giles Elgood) Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara has announced he will seek a fourth term leading the West African nation, as tensions rise over the exclusion of many heavyweight opposition candidates. Earlier, he had been officially nominated by his ruling Rally of Houphouetists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP) party as its candidate, but had not yet said if he would contest the October 25 election. With the countrys most high-profile opposition politicians ruled ineligible, Ouattara is the clear frontrunner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 83-year-old president, who has led the country since 2011, declared his plan in a televised announcement on Tuesday. For several months, I have received numerous calls from fellow citizens regarding my potential candidacy in the presidential election, he said. Referring to the country by its name in French, he went on: Women and young people from all regions of Cote dIvoire, and countless anonymous voices from our neighbourhoods, towns, and villages have reached out. In response to those appeals, I announced on June 22 that, as president of all Ivorians, I would, after careful reflection, make a decision guided solely by the best interest of the nation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ouattara won a third term in 2020 after the constitution was changed to reset the presidential term limit. He had said he was not going to run again, but he changed his position following the death of his hand-picked successor, Prime Minister Amadou Gon Coulibaly. Opposition campaign Critics of Ouattara accuse him of tightening his grip on power and strongly oppose his running again. The opposition has accused the authorities of targeting their opponents by legal means, but the government insists the judiciary acts independently. The two main opposition parties have launched a joint campaign to demand the reinstatement of their barred leaders ahead of the presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This alliance brings together the African Peoples Party of Ivory Coast (PPA-CI) led by former president Laurent Gbagbo and the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI), the countrys largest opposition force, headed by former international banker Tidjane Thiam. Gbagbo, his former right-hand man Charles Ble Goude and ex-Prime Minister Guillaume Soro have been struck from the electoral register due to criminal convictions. Ouattaras most prominent rival, Thiam, was barred from running by a court on the grounds that he was still a French citizen at the time he declared his candidacy, even though he later renounced his French nationality. Ivorian law bans dual nationals from running for president. Some previous elections in the Ivory Coast have been fraught with tension and violence. When Ouattara announced his third-term bid, several people were killed in the ensuing violence. There have been protests against the courts decision to bar Thiam from contesting the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ouattara is the latest among a growing number of leaders in West Africa who remain in power after changing the constitutional term limit. Coup leaders in the region have used alleged corruption within democratic governments and electoral changes as a pretext to seize power, leading to a split in the regional bloc, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). JACKSONVILLE, Texas (KETK) Following the passing of House Bill 14-81 in June, Jacksonville ISD officially approved the restriction of cell phones in their district. LIST: How is your East Texas school district implementing new cell phone ban One parent, Jose Lara, said before the meeting that he was surprised about the cell phone ban on campus, but after learning more, his stance changed. He said it would have a positive impact in the classroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think they should be able to use them in school or during classes or anything like that, like zero or maybe zero tolerance during class, parent Lara said. However, one concern was raised by other parents: what happens in case of an emergency? They do need their cell phone because in case anything happens in school, and then all the parents worry, and theyre the first thing that we do as a parent, as grandparents, we try to locate it with them first, parent Patricia Lopez said. Communications Director Grace Traylor said this new policy will feel similar to previous cell phone policies the school has already had in place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It wont be much different from what weve had, Traylor said. We instituted a cell phone policy last year at all our secondary campuses. Traylor also added that, because of the rules from last year, the students should already be used to putting their phones away. Worked really well and I think everybody is on board with how much that helps learning, Traylor said. Eastman Chemical in Longview granted two year exemption from new EPA rules Jacksonville ISD said they understand there may be more questions from both parents and students, but they can expect details on the full policy on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) The Jacksonville Police Department is seeking information regarding a shooting that happened July 25, 2025. Officers said it happened at around 9 p.m. at the Osprey Cove Apartments on Broadhurst Road. A victim was shot in the leg, then taken to the hospital before being treated and released. Witnesses said they heard a gunshot and saw a dark sedan leaving the area. Officers believe the people in the vehicle could have information related to the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Bloomfield at 910-938-6410 or by email at sbloomfield@jacksonvillenc.gov Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. CNNs Jake Tapper has flatly debunked President Donald Trumps claim that his enemies may have planted damaging material about him in the the Jeffrey Epstein files, calling it one of the most bizarre conspiracy theories Ive ever heard. As part of his ongoing effort to sow doubt about the Epstein files, Trump on Monday dismissed them as fake to reporters in Scotland and said they were run by the worst scum on Earth. Naming former President Joe Biden, former FBI Director James Comey, former Attorney General Merrick Garland, Trump argued, They can easily put something in the files thats a phony. President Donald Trump said Monday that the Epstein files are a hoax thats been built up way beyond proportion. / Win McNamee/Getty Images Tapper called the presidents theory madness during his conversation with former U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara: The idea that [Trumps opponents] would do this and then just walk away instead of Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not act on it, Bharara chimed in. Yeah! Like, do it in 2016 or do it in 2020, or 2024 when theyre trying to defeat Donald Trump, Tapper continued, expressing doubt that Trumps foes would just put it there and hope somebody finds it. Trump has doubled down on his attempts to discredit the files on the late convicted sex offender after it was reported last week that his name appears in the documents multiple times. According to The Wall Street Journal, Attorney General Pam Bondi told Trump in a May meeting that his name is included in the files. On Monday, he said Its a hoax thats been built up way beyond proportion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But even Trump himself briefly debunked his own conspiracy theory by noting, If they had something, they would have released [sic]. Jeffrey Epstein and Donald Trump spent years running in the same social circles. / Davidoff Studios Photography / Getty Images Trumps assertion that the files may have been tampered with has been seen by some as preemptive damage control if the files ever implicate him. The MAGA uproar over how Trump has handled the files, which were long hyped up by members of his own administration, has thrown renewed attention on the presidents personal ties to Epstein. Trump was friends with the disgraced financier for over a decade starting in the 1980s, though he says they had a falling out before Epstein was exposed as a pedophile. BROWN COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) A Brown County jury has found James David Harvey guilty of the November 23, 2023, murder of Richard Kittle. He has been sentenced to 35 years in prison. Brownwood Murder Investigation: Suspects charge upgraded to Murder as victim succumbs to injuries Courtesy of the Brown County Sheriffs Office According to testimony, Harvey and Kittle had been drinking when an argument escalated. Harvey admitted he lost it and snapped. A medical examiner later confirmed Kittle died from multiple blunt force injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators found a trail of bloody footprints leading from the crime scene to Harveys nearby apartment, where he was discovered asleep. The blood was matched to the victim. During the trial, jurors learned Harvey had two prior prison sentences related to domestic violence and retaliation. At the time of Kittles death, Harvey was on probation for deadly conduct. Prosecutors had asked for a 60-year sentence, but the court ultimately imposed 35 years. Harvey will be eligible for parole after serving at least half his term. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. Vice President JD Vance took aim at former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush when asked about the late disgraced financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Vance answered a reporters question about the Epstein files while he was speaking in Canton, Ohio, on Monday. First of all, the president has been very clear. Were not shielding anything, Vance said. The president has directed the attorney general to release all credible information and, frankly, to go and find additional credible information related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. Hes been incredibly transparent about that stuff, but some of that stuff takes time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration has faced scrutiny from MAGA supporters and others in recent weeks over its handling of the case. Youve got to assemble that stuff, youve got to compile that stuff, youve got to redact some victims names so that you protect the victims, Vance continued. He added that Attorney General Pam Bondi is hard at work fulfilling Trumps recent request to release whatever she thinks is credible on Epstein. Trump made the request last week following the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigations release of a two-page memo saying there was no evidence that Epstein had kept a client list or died of causes other than suicide in his jail cell in Manhattan in 2019, two points of public speculation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president has been very clear; he wants full transparency. Hes asked that from the attorney general, and I know because I talk to her all the time, Vance said of Bondi. Vance then claimed that past presidential administrations had gone easy on Epstein and hadnt fully investigated the case, specifically calling out Joe Biden, Obama and Bush. For four years under Joe Bidens Department of Justice, the media didnt give a damn about the Epstein files or about the Epstein case, he continued. For literally 20 years, the story about this scumbag and he is a scumbag pedophile, Jeffrey Epstein hes dead now. But for 20 years, you had Obama and George W. Bushs Department of Justice go easy on this guy. They didnt fully investigate the case. Vance told the crowd that the media should go after the administrations that went easy on Jeffrey Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They didnt show any curiosity about the case, and now Donald J. Trump is asking his Department of Justice to show full transparency, and somehow thats a criticism of Donald J. Trump and not Barack Obama and George W. Bush, Vance complained. If you want to criticize the people who arent showing full transparency, you ought to go after the administrations that went easy on Jeffrey Epstein, the administrations that concealed this case for 20 years, and the administrations that failed to show full transparency. Vances comments came after Trump deflected questions last week about the Epstein probe by accusing Obama of committing treasonous behavior during the 2016 election. Obamas office denied Trumps bizarre claims, labeling the world leaders attack as a weak attempt at distraction. While Bush was in office when Epstein was offered a plea deal in 2008, he has remained relatively quiet about the Epstein files. The plea deal allowed Epstein to skirt harsher federal penalties on allegations that he abused underage girls, and in return, Epstein pleaded guilty to Florida state charges. Wrapping up his comments, Vance insisted that Trump and his administration have got nothing to hide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donald J. Trump, Im telling you, hes got nothing to hide. His administration has got nothing to hide, and thats why hes been an advocate for full transparency in this case, Vance added. Watch a clip from his speech below. Related... A child sex abuse survivor from Palm Beach County who testified at the Ghislaine Maxwell trial in 2021 said she had met Donald Trump with Jeffrey Epstein at Mar-a-Lago in the 1990s when she was 14 and was once a contestant in Trump's Miss Teen USA beauty pageant. "Jane," a pseudonym, is one of the few Epstein survivors who has said publicly that she met Trump through Epstein. She never described any inappropriate behavior by the president, however, and didn't say much more about the meeting, such as why she and Epstein were there. Trump has never been formally accused of participating in or knowing about any of Epstein's crimes. Jane said she took part in the pageant in 1998, but it wasn't clear whether that was before or after the Mar-a-Lago introduction. Four 1997 contestants have said he walked through the changing rooms while they were dressing, according to a 2016 Buzzfeed report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump and Epstein lived within 2 miles of each on the island and moved in around the same time Trump in 1985 and Epstein in 1990. They have been seen socializing in several photos and videos. Their relationship is now back in the spotlight as Trump faces pressure from Republicans, his own supporters and Democrats to provide greater transparency into Epstein's case and as questions continue to swirl around what the future president of the United States may have known or witnessed during his years-long relationship with Epstein. Trump has said he "kicked (Epstein) out of his club for being a creep." "I threw him out, and that was it. I'm glad I did, if you know the truth," Trump told reporters July 28 during a meeting with United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Ghislaine Maxwell granted limited immunity Maxwell finished up two days of speaking with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche July 24-25 at a federal courthouse in Tallahassee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blanche granted her limited immunity to answer questions, presumably about any possible Epstein accomplices. Trump has said that he could pardon her but hasn't said that he would. The meeting took place in response to a firestorm of controversy from Trump's own base after the Department of Justice announced in a memo on July 7 that it had not found any evidence of a "client list" by Epstein in a tranche of documents and other digital evidence it holds. The agency also said that it would not be releasing any more of them to the public. In addition, it found no evidence that could initiate an investigation of any "third parties," nor any reason to believe Epstein had blackmailed anyone, the memo said. Number of Jeffrey Epstein tops 1,000 victims The memo confirmed earlier reports of more than 1,000 Epstein victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of them, Jane, led off the four victims who testified for the prosecution in Maxwell's 2021 trial. Maxwell was convicted of sex trafficking minors and in 2022 was sentenced to 20 years. She is serving her time in a federal prison in Tallahassee. Jane was one of two victims from Florida to take the stand. The other, Carolyn Andriano, 36, of Wellington was found dead a year after Maxwell's sentencing from an accidental drug overdose in a West Palm Beach hotel room. At least one juror said he found her testimony so compelling that it helped lead the group to a guilty verdict. Jane said she had met Epstein and Maxwell in 1994, fresh from the grief of her father dying, at age 14 at an arts camp in Michigan. Maxwell had been walking by with her Yorkie and Jane asked to pet the dog. Soon Epstein joined them at a picnic table and they talked about all of them being residents of Palm Beach County. Epstein, a benefactor of the camp, had a cabin nearby. A few weeks later, Jane, an eighth-grader, and her mother were invited to Epstein's Palm Beach mansion for tea. Jane went back every other week or so without her mother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maxwell acted like a big sister at first, Jane testified, but then she was focused on showing her how to please Epstein sexually. Jane said Epstein sexually abused her for the first time in his pool house at his Palm Beach property. Soon after, Maxwell and Epstein sexually abused her together, she said. The abuse took place not only on Palm Beach but also at Epstein's homes in New York City and New Mexico. Jane spoke to authorities in 2019 Jane said she stopped seeing them around 2002 and that was the first time she told anyone. A former boyfriend corroborated her story on the stand. She talked to law enforcement in 2019, she said, because as an actor, she feared repercussion in her career. Epstein was arrested in July 2019 on federal charges of sex trafficking minors. Three weeks later, awaiting trial, he was found dead in his Manhattan jail cell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holly Baltz is an editor at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at hbaltz@pbpost.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Jeffrey Epstein survivor testified she met Donald Trump at age 14 LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A 35-year-old New Jersey man has been reported missing in the Grand Canyon after his Tesla Cybertruck was found at a trailhead six days after his last contact with friends and family. Thomas Daniel Gibbs was in contact on July 22 at about noon, and his truck was found the same day he was reported missing, July 28. The Cybertruck was found at Grandview Point parking lot on the South Rim, and he is believed to have been in the area of the Grandview Trail and Horseshoe Mesa on July 22. Gibbs, of Freehold, New Jersey, is described as a white male, 6-feet-1-inch tall with brown hair and brown eyes. He doesnt have tattoos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Grandview Point parking lot is about 12 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. While the South Rim remains open and continues to welcome visitors, there is currently no access to the North Rim or to North Rim facilities. The North Rim is closed for the remainder of the 2025 season after the Dragon Bravo Fire destroyed 70 buildings, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge. Rangers are asking anyone who was in the Grandview Trail area around July 22 for information on his whereabouts, or any information that can help in locating him. Call the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch (ISB) Tip Line at 1-888-653-0009. Tips can also be submitted online at www.nps.gov/ISM or via email at nps_isb@nps.gov. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. Wesley LePatner, a Blackstone executive with deep ties to Jewish communal organizations in New York City, was killed in the Monday shooting at the firms Midtown headquarters, the company confirmed on Tuesday. LePatner, nee Mittman, was the global head of Core+ Real Estate at Blackstone and CEO of Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust, according to Blackstones website. A Yale graduate, she joined the company in 2014 after more than a decade at Goldman Sachs. She served on the board of trustees at the Abraham Joshua Heschel School, a pluralistic Jewish day school in New York, and she joined the board of trustees at UJA-Federation of New York earlier this month. We are devastated by the tragic loss of Wesley LePatner, a beloved member of UJAs community and a member of our board of directors, who was killed in yesterdays mass shooting in Midtown, the federation said in a statement. Wesley was extraordinary in every way personally, professionally, and philanthropically, the organization said. In the wake of Oct. 7, Wesley led a solidarity mission with UJA to Israel, demonstrating her enduring commitment in Israels moment of heartache. She lived with courage and conviction, instilling in her two children a deep love for Judaism and the Jewish people. In 2023, LePatner was awarded the Alan C. Greenberg Young Leadership Award at UJAs 2023 annual Wall Street dinner. In a speech, she outlined her involvement with the organization, dating back nearly two decades. I first attended the UJA Wall Street dinner as a young analyst in 2004, where I am pretty certain I sat in one of the last tables at the back of the room, LePatner said at the event, which took place two months after the Oct. 7 attacks. Never in my wildest imagination could I have believed that I would be up on this stage two decades later. UJA has many super-powers, but its most important in my view is its power to create a sense of community and belonging, and that ability to create a sense of community and belonging matters now more than ever. LePatner also sat on the board of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Yale University Library Council and Nareit, a real estate organization. She is survived by her husband, Evan, and two children. The post Jewish philanthropist Wesley LePatner, 43, named as victim in Manhattan shooting appeared first on eJewishPhilanthropy. PRINCETON, WV (WVNS) Three Mercer County organizations have teamed up in hopes of making a paws-itive impact on the community. Kids share what they learned at Camp Kindness Jimmies Restaurant of Princeton has joined with the Colton Bailey Says Hi organization and the Mercer County Animal Shelter for a pet food drive event. The Mercer Street establishment made an announcement that it would be accepting donations of cat and dog food as part of the effort. We would just like to give back to the community as much as we can, and were grateful for all that the animal shelter does, said Colton Bailey, founder of the Colton Bailey Says Hi organization, with which Jimmies and the Mercer County Animal Shelter are working for the drive. We just want to be able to provide them with as much help as we can. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pet food drive was announced for Wednesday, July 30, to Sunday, August 3. You can donate at any time during hours of operation. Those who donate can even win a $25 gift card to Jimmies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS. The Brief The truth about Jimmy Hoffa is that we'll probably never the truth. Long-presumed to be dead, Hoffa's remains have never been found. Tips have ranged from a New Jersey dump to the Renaissance Center but never has the former union leader been found. DETROIT (FOX 2) - Editor's note: this is part FOUR of our specials on the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa. In part two, we dissected the frustrating case and why nobody has ever been charged. Tuesday night at 10 p.m., we'll wrap up our five special pieces with an exclusive interview of James P. Hoffa, Jimmy Hoffa's son. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Five decades since Jimmy Hoffa got into that car in the parking lot of Machus Red Fox restaurant in Bloomfield and not a single trace of the once-powerful man has ever been found. One of many questions that has lingered for decades is how does someone so famous and powerful just vanish? Jimmy Hoffa has been dead for years but the case is still much alive. Former Teamster leader James Hoffa waves from the back seat of his car as he leaves the St. Louis airport for a family reunion over Christmas. Hoffa was released from the federal penitentiary at Lewisburg, PA, and flew to St. Louis to spend Christmas a the suburban home of his daughter and son-in law Mr. and Mrs. Robert Crancer. (Photo by Bettmann Archive/Getty Images) Empty tips in the search for Hoffa "Obviously some people were not forthcoming at the time, they were not being honest with law enforcement as they should've been," Andy Arena said. Over the past 50 years, tips have poured in across the country. There were theories far and wide but also here at home in Detroit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Another local theory is that Jimmy Hoffa ended up in the foundation of the Renaissance Center. The Renaissance Center was being built at that time, and they were pouring footings a few weeks after July 30th," Historian Rebecca Salminen Witt said. "After those theories you get a little farther afield." Another tip said that Hoffa was shipped to New Jersey in a barrel and then buried in a dump under a New Jersey bridge. There was also an urban legend that Hoffa's body was buried under the end zone of Giants Stadium as it was also being built at that time. (Original Caption) Lewisburg, PA: James Hoffa, former president of the Teamsters Union smiles as he chats with newsmen in front of the Federal Prison, after he was released after serving 57 months. Photo dated 12/23/71. "Maybe he became a protective witness. Maybe the CIA took him out. Maybe the mob took him closer to home back to Jersey where they could laugh about where he was buried all that time," Witt said about the long list of theories. On the 19th anniversary, in 2004, mob hitman Frank Sheeran, the focal point of the book 'I Heard You Paint Houses' and the movie The Irishman, said he murdered Hofffa in a Detroit home on the west side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI and investigators searched and found blood but it didn't belong to Hoffa. The Detroit search was one of many done in the search for Hoffa's body. "We're in Metropolitan Detroit. Everybody has a story of someone's farm field getting dug up, looking for Jimmy Hoffa," Witt said. In 2006, the feds spent two weeks digging up a farm in Milford. They found a lot of dirt but no Hoffa. Six years later, they dug up a driveway in Roseville. Then again in Oakland Township the next year. A New Jersey dig may have been the hottest tip as a mobster's son said his dad claimed to put Hoffa in a barrel and then buried him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That tip, like everything else, led to nothing. Digging deeper and finding nothing Another theory is that Hoffa's body was moved in the late 1990s and moved to Milwaukee. Arena said the FBI has to search out every single lead. "If you get that, you've gotta do what you can. As I said, the family, they deserve the closure," he said. The truth of it all is buried and former TV 2 reporter Nancy McCauley said she doesn't think that will ever change. "I don't think he'll ever be found. I think whoever did it was professional," she said. Reflection of former Teamster boss Jimmy Hoffa in rear-view mirror of truck he's driving. (Photo by Lynn Pelham/Getty Images) The truth about Hoffa The reality is Hoffa's body is likely gone. The mob had a number of funeral home snot far from the Machus Red Fox and he could have just as easily been taken to one of those and cremated or driven to Hamtramck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He also may have been stuffed in that trunk, driven down to Hamtramck, a 20-minute drive from the Machus Red Fox in Bloomfield Township and incinerated," Witt said. "There was an incinerator there that was owned by a couple of brothers who were known to be organized criminals. That incinerator had been used to incinerate people before. This was a known fact." Even if police could have searched that facility, they would had to do it immediately after he disappeared. "A couple weeks after July 30th that place was burned down," Witt said. "The police say the incinerator was burned down-- arson. I think it's fairly like that those things could've been connected." Instead of uncovering the truth, each dig and shovelful only made the truth murky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The truth of what happened to Hoffa is all behind the sealed lips of the mob. And the story gets to be retold by those who investigated, study, and report. "He was this old rough-and-tumble bare-knuckle union guy," Arena said. "He almost to us had become almost a cartoon character. He fought for the rights of his union workers. He may have gotten too closely involved with some organized crime guys. But he was a colorful guy." "I wish somehow we could find out what happened to Jimmy Hoffa," McCauley said. "People forget the real humanity that was involved here. Jimmy Hoffa had a family. He had children. They miss him still," Witt said. "Jimmy Hoffa was both loved and revered and understood to be willing to do illegal things. So I think it really seems the popular opinion was split between horrified that we've lost this champion of the people-- what are we going to do now? To looks like he finally got what was coming to him." The Source Previous interviews and footage from the FOX 2 archives were used in this report, and new interviews with TV 2 reporter Nancy McCauley historian Rebecca Salminen Witt and Andy Arena were all used in this report. Goodwill Industries of East Texas Palestine Retail Lead Pay: $11.50 $13.80 an hour Duties: Greets and assists all customers with exceptional customer service. Insures that all employees are trained for the jobs they will be performing, trained for the equipment they will be using, and understand potential safety hazards. Inspect personal protective equipment (PPE) and correct or report any issues or concerns to supervisor. Constantly monitor work areas, conducts periodic safety inspections and store evaluations of all area; Takes immediate corrective action when work areas and /or practices are deemed to be unsafe or deficiencies are found. Assist in achieving or exceeding budged sales goal. Travel may be required. Other duties as assigned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Qualifications: High school diploma, general education degree (GED), a minimum three months related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience in Microsoft Excel. Bilingual Skills a plus. Apply here Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. Joe Rogan came out in support of foreign-born university students across the U.S. who have been detained or face deportation for protesting Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Isnt a university supposed to be a place where someones allowed to express themselves and have opinions? Rogan asked comedian Mike Vecchione on Tuesdays episode of The Joe Rogan Experience. Rogan, who endorsed Donald Trump during the 2024 presidential election, joined a growing group of podcasters who have begun to turn on the president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The comedian previously attacked Trumps immigration enforcement in an episode earlier this month, criticizing raids for targeting workplaces instead of violent criminals. Joe Rogan condemned the Trump administration for detaining university students over public support of Palestine. Getty Images Actor Mark Ruffalo subsequently slammed Rogans about-face in a post on Threads, saying, Its a little late now to pretend like project 2025 didnt exist and wasnt the play book all along. On Tuesday, Rogan denounced the presidents aggressive crackdown on immigration once again, this time condemning the Trump administration for detaining visa and green-card holders, despite a campaign promise of focusing on violent criminals. During the episode, Rogan claimed friends and cops in New York City have told him that increases in immigration have resulted in an elevated number of assaults and crimes and robberies in the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And so, whats the response to that? Well, now you have this insane policy where theyre going to Home Depot and rounding people up, and its kind of scary, you know, and people that are American citizens, Rogan said. Rogan called Trumps aggressive enforcement an overcorrection. You got a bunch of people that are totally innocent, they are going to get caught up in that. They have been, you know, they have been, Rogan said. A lot of people that have green cards, a lot of people that are supposed to be over here. Among those who have been caught up in Trumps immigration enforcement are university students who openly protested against Israel, including Columbia University graduate student Mahmoud Khalil, a green-card holder who was detained after the administration claimed his beliefs and presence in the U.S. could hurt American foreign policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mohsen Mahdawi, another Columbia student who led peaceful pro-Palestinian protests on campus, was arrested during his citizenship interview. He was released after 16 days in detention, but said the administrations intimidation would not silence him. Rogan called it fucking crazy that theyre kicking students out that like write articles they dont like. Though he did not name a specific case, the comment seemed to be a reference to Tufts University student Rumeysa Ozturk, who was taken by federal agents and held for more than six weeks after co-authoring an op-ed in her student newspaper calling on the university to divest from Israeli companies. Theyre writing something down, and theyre not calling for violence either. And theyre getting challenged. Thats supposed to be how it happens, Rogan said. You get challenged. Smarter people have better arguments or your argument stands. Vecchione said that a university is supposed to be a place for discourse, and Rogan agreed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youre deporting people because you dont like who theyre criticizing, Rogan said. Like that gets kind of shifty. Related... JOPLIN, Mo. Joplin Eagles have just three weeks to go until its time to go back to class, but do you know everything you need to do to make sure that goes smoothly? Vaccinations are a top concern for parents of kindergarteners, but there are a couple of other grades with requirements that parents need to know. Lists of school supplies are available for each grade level. Open Houses are scheduled for those students who will be moving up to a new school this fall. School leaders point out you can find out more online or by signing up for the Parent Square app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Parent Square app that Joplin Schools use with all of our families is a fantastic way you get messages as a blanket message from the school. Also, parents have the option to personally send a message to the school office, the administrator, their teacher, and its a great communication method there, said Heather Surbrugg, Joplin Early Childhood Principal. Theres even a bus camp in a couple of weeks for little Eagles who arent used to riding the bus. You can find out more about the Joplin back to school checklist through this link. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. The Joseph Kerner chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution had a fundraiser Sunday to help pay for fleece blankets for campers at Victory Junction, a camp for children with serious illnesses. The event at the community room at Fire Station 42 was held in support of the N.C. Society of the Children of the American Revolution state project, Proclaiming Victory. Those in attendance had the option of choosing a fleece blanket pattern for $35 that they could keep or donate to Victory Junction. All proceeds and donated blankets will go to Victory Junction. Victory Junction provides an outdoor camp experience to children who have serious medical conditions. As they conquer activities like zip lining and archery or experience bowling, fishing or swimming, children build confidence that will shape how they view the rest of their lives. The camp is on 84 acres in the rolling hills of Randleman, south of Greensboro. FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) Josh Duggar has filed a motion to vacate his child pornography conviction, according to a Tuesday filing in U.S. District Court in Fayetteville. FILE This undated photo provided by Washington County, Ark., Detention Center shows Josh Duggar. An attorney for Duggar asked a federal appeals court panel on Thursday, Feb. 16, 2023, to reverse the former reality TV stars conviction for downloading child pornography, saying investigators violated his rights by seizing the phone he was using to try to call his lawyer during the search that found the images. (Washington County Detention Center via AP, File) In the motion, Duggar says he was denied a fair trial and his constitutional rights were violated. The motion cites eight grounds of alleged wrongdoing in the court. Duggar claims that evidence was withheld during the trial to harm him, including witness testimonies that he says only came after years of animosity and media attacks, according to the filing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also claims that an expert from the Department of Justice manipulated evidence and lied under oath. Josh Duggar sentenced to more than 12 years in Federal Prison on child pornography charges Duggar mentions the courts decision to recover juvenile records of the Duggar family, which he says caused harm to his sisters. Finally, Duggar claims that TLC and Discovery Communications released a statement, made by him, that he says he did not consent to. According to the filing, Duggar did not raise any of these alleged issues during his post-conviction proceedings. This move also comes after post-conviction relief was denied by local judges, the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals and the U.S. Supreme Court. Josh Duggars Child Pornography Conviction Josh Duggar was found guilty of downloading and possessing child pornography in 2021 and was later sentenced to more than 12 years in federal prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was first arrested on April 29, 2021. Federal agents recovered multiple electronic devices and pieces of evidence from his place of employment at Wholesale Motorcars. Special Agent Gerald Faulkner called one recovered video file in the top five of the worst that Ive ever had to examine. Josh Duggars special conditions of sentencing After six days of witness testimony, Duggar was unanimously found guilty. Hes currently serving his 151-month sentence in a federal prison at Seagoville, Texas Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. Prevention is far more crucial than treatment when it comes to infertility, and understanding the impact of life style choices is key to preserving reproductive health cancer patients. Her special interest in PCOS management has made the clinic a sought - after center for adolescent to menopausal women requiring a multi disciplinary approach to hormonal and reproductive health.In addition to medical treatment, Dr Madhuri also emphasizes the emotional well-being of her patients. I truly believe in connecting with my patients on a personal level, so I can guide them through their fertility journey with empathy and understanding. With the support of my amazing team of counselors and nurses, we make sure every patient feels cared for in every way be it medically, emotionally, or psychologically, she adds.At Dr Patils Fertility and Endoscopy Clinic, cuttingedge technology and patient education go hand-in-hand to ensure superior fertility care. The clinic is equipped with the latest and most advanced tools required for the full spectrum of infertility treatment, from basic diagnostics to highly specialized procedures like IVF and ICSI. However, Dr Madhuri believes that technology alone is not enough. I believe that transparency and patient trust are crucial in fertility care. I always make it a point to communicate openly with my patients, ensuring they understand the realities of embryo quality and not proceeding with embryo transfers if the chances of success are low, asserts Dr Madhuri. She devotes extensive time during initial consultations, often up to an hour, to educate patients using detailed diagrams and personalized explanations and clear any related misconceptions.As a respected figure in reproductive medicine, she currently holds numerous national and international positions and is set to become the President of the Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction (ISAR) in the coming years. Looking ahead, Dr Madhuri aims to launch nationwide initiatives for both patients and medical professionals. She also organizes several CMEs and national and international conferences. I am extremely passionate about teaching and learning to stay updated with the latest medical advancements. I subscribe to several international journals each year and mentor postgraduate students by hosting national online teaching programs so that they can provide the best possible care for their patients, concludes Dr Madhuri.President of the Fertility Preservation SocietyVice President of the Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction(ISAR)Vice President of the PCOS Society of IndiaAssociate Editor for the Fertility and Sterility Journal, the official publication of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)Board Member of the AE-PCO Society (an American-based society focused on PCOS research and policy)Chair for the Special Interest Group(SIG) in Reproductive Endo-crinology and PCOS at ASPIRE (Asia-Pacific Initiative in Reproduction)Member of the Education and Journal Committee at ASPIREEditor-in-Chief for the Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences, the official journal of ISAR, for 13 yearsCourse Leader for reproductive medicine courses recognized by Rajiv Gandhi University and the Indian College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ICOG)Instructor for the ICOG national program since 2019, teaching students across IndiaAwarded the Dr Duru Shah Life time Achievement Award in 2022Recipient of the Vidya Vibhushan Award from ICOG for teaching excellence in 2021Member of the International Society for Research. WASHINGTON, D.C. (WIVT/WBGH) Representative Josh Riley introduced H.R. 4720, the Cracking Down on Price Gouging Act, earlier today in Congress. The legislation seeks to build on the Defense Production Acts (DPA) legal protections to create a national ban on price gouging. The Defense Production Act was originally enacted in 1950 to stop hoarding and profiteering during wartime. In its amended state, it gives the president a broad set of authorities to influence domestic industry in the interest of national defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Cracking Down on Price Gouging Act seeks to strengthen the DPA by banning sellers from charging unfairly excessive prices for scarce materials designated by the president and expand the law to cover additional critical goods facing acute shortages. In Upstate New York, we believe in fair prices and honest work, said Rep. Riley. But when corporate giants hike prices on food and medicine during a crisis, working families get squeezed just so Wall Street can cash in. Thats not the free marketits a shake-down. And this bill puts a stop to it. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WIVT - News 34. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) JPMorgan Chase has announced its making a $2 million philanthropic commitment to create the Alabama Capital Access Collaborative. There are eight small lenders that will be participating. Urban Impact helped Emondre Johnson get his start as a small business owner in Birmingham. Johnson decided to turn his love for dogs into a business, opening Bark Park in February. The 26-year-old who majored in animal science as an undergrad says the 12-week course he enrolled in through Urban Impact set him up for success: It taught me marketing, finances, how to go out and raise capital, how to track whats going in, whats going out, he explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Urban Impact in a non-profit organization that helps entrepreneurs through a 12-week accelerator course. Executive Director Ivan Holloway says obtaining capital is tough for some entrepreneurs: Thats extremely difficult especially for startups, one of the things we do here is provide micro loans from $500 to $25,000. JPMorgan Chase is providing $2 million through its philanthropy arm that will join together to create the collaborative. Hopefully it will allow us to expand our ability to retain staff, expand our ability to continue to lend, and expand our ability to bring on more expertise that allow us to pour in our small businesses, Holloway said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fultondale residents share priorities ahead of mayoral election Bob Dickerson founded the Birmingham Business Resource Center to help entrepreneurs start growing and developing small businesses: We help people who need counseling, who have an idea, who want us to review their business plan, and then we help people who actually need money, he said. He says they do that through micro lending and SBA lending. Dickerson explains how they plan to use about $200,000 in grant funding he believes theyll receive: I think we need to make sure we use this money in a way that adds value to the community to increase capacity so that were able to serve better. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CBS 42 also spoke with Victoria Phipps, the VP of Global Philanthropy. She said that in addition to the grant funding, over the next six months, they will be providing expertise to the eight organizations in the collaborative. She also said she anticipates there will be additional announcements about grants in the future. The full list of participating businesses include: Birmingham Business Resource Center Bronze Valley Camino Loan Fund Commonwealth National Bank Neighborhood Concepts Opportunity Alabama Sabre Finance Urban Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) As artificial intelligence advances in the modern world, a company is using it as a tool to help aging Americans live at home and assist their caregivers. Its technology that transforms the television into a lifeline for healthcare giving. That is the message of JubileeTV, a remote caregiving system formed out of a sons desire to help his aging mother and in-laws. Theres an immense sense of guilt when your mom is alone at 90-plus in her home and struggling, and you cant take care of her as much as youd like to. But when technology comes to help you theres independence for mom and gives you as the family care giver the power to take care of them, said Ashish Aggarwal, CEO of JubileeTV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The goal of JubileeTV is to help seniors continue living in their homes as they age by using their televisions to connect them instantly and easily with their families. My goal was to build this bridge between family caregivers who are living remotely, who have the phone and app with them and older adults who are in front of the television 7 to 9 hours a day, Aggarwal said. JubileeTV offers a variety of functions from sending photos, reminders, important health information, to alerts of any falls. The AI platform can notify about anything out of the ordinary. So its like keeping a watchful eye, Aggarwal said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bringing a sense of relief to their caregivers. The burden on the family caregiving is reduced. People say, oh I can go back seven days and see exactly what my mom has done, Aggarwal said. With these simple tasks, they feel empowered. Then when they know the system is keeping an eye on them. For example, one of our board members uses it for his mom. He said they fact that his mom knows that he gets alerts and reminders makes her at peace, he said. It works by giving their caregivers remote access to change and monitor the content in order to create a peaceful setting. Its like youre literally virtually there in the room. You can see whats on the TV and put on any content, Aggarwal said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aggarwal helped launched the patented technology behind JubileeTV that incorporates cutting edge artificial intelligence using motion and audio tech. With his engineering background, he started as the companys chief technology officer. Now taking over as CEO, he envisioned using the company for senior care. Inspired by his own familys needs after he moved to America. My father-in-law was a nuclear scientist who now has dementia. Its really hard to manage. How can I keep an eye on them to see if their doing okay or not doing okay? You cant be there with them all the time. So that was need for me, he said. JubileeTV places an AI device into the room with a camera and microphone on the TV and connects to the caregivers app. Privacy settings are built in to avoid misuse. Aggarwal explains why television is the best means for elderly seniors to use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its simple. Its easy to control. Its big. Its loud. Tablets and phones really arent effective at that age. Think about much older, like the last five years of life with hearing impairment, visual impairment, with dementia. There are 16 million older adults in America living with that. That number will become 30 to 35 million soon, Aggarwal said. He said artificial intelligence can be used to empower people as they grow older. My parents want independence. They dont want to be dependent on the children. They want to live independently and not burden the children. They understand their children care about them who are juggling between their own kids and their parents, Aggarwal said. He said JubileeTV is getting ahead of what will become a worldwide problem as the population, life spans, and diseases increase. So, the best means of utilizing artificial intelligence in a practical and loving way is for senior care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think we live to create a positive impact. I think through technology if we can create that I would think my life is well-lived, Aggarwal said. To learn more about JubileeTV, visit their website. The device is simple to install or representatives are available to install for customers. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. A Colombian judge on Monday convicted former President Alvaro Uribe of abuse of process and bribery of a public official in a long-running witness tampering case, making him the countrys first ex-president to ever be found guilty at trial. Judge Sandra Liliana Heredia read her decision aloud to the court over the course of some ten hours. She found the right-wing politician not guilty of a separate bribery charge. The ruling, which Uribe is expected to appeal, is the latest decision in a hugely politicized case that has run for some 13 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision comes less than a year before Colombias 2026 presidential election, in which several of Uribes allies and proteges are competing for the countrys top office. Uribe, 73, and his supporters say the process is a persecution and that he is innocent. His detractors have celebrated it as the deserved downfall for a man who has been repeatedly accused of close relationships with violent right-wing paramilitaries, but never convicted of any crime. Each charge carries a jail sentence of between six and 12 years. Heredia is expected to sentence Uribe in a later hearing. Justice does not kneel before power, Heredia told the court on Monday morning, before spending about nine hours reading her decision. It is at the service of the Colombian people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want to say to Colombia that justice has arrived, she said, adding that her full decision is some 1,000 pages long. Uribe and one of his lawyers, Jaime Granados, joined the hearing via video link, while another lawyer, Jaime Lombana, appeared in person. This is not the end of this process, the appeal is next and we are going to demonstrate that this decision, which we respect, is wrong, lawyer Juan Felipe Amaya, part of Uribes legal team, told journalists at the court. Granados told the hearing that the presumption of Uribes innocence should be maintained and asked for him to remain free during the remainder of the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detractors and supporters of the former president gathered outside the court, with some Uribe backers sporting masks of his face. Even if the conviction is eventually upheld, Uribe may be allowed to serve his sentence on house arrest because of his age. Parliamentary plot Uribe, who was president from 2002 to 2010 and oversaw a military offensive against leftist guerrilla groups, was investigated along with several allies over allegations of witness tampering carried out in an attempt to discredit accusations he had ties to paramilitaries. Judges have twice rejected requests by prosecutors to shelve the case, which stems from Uribes allegation in 2012 that leftist Senator Ivan Cepeda had orchestrated a plot to tie him to paramilitaries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Supreme Court said in 2018 that Cepeda had collected information from former fighters as part of his work and had not paid or pressured former paramilitaries. Instead, the court said it was Uribe and his allies who pressured witnesses. Cepeda attended the hearing in person with his counsel. Uribes trial triggered sharp criticism from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio ahead of the judges decision. Uribe had a close relationship with the U.S. during his two terms as president. Uribes only crime has been to tirelessly fight and defend his homeland. The weaponization of Colombias judicial branch by radical judges has now set a worrisome precedent, Rubio said on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A decision against the ex-president could generate some kind of reprisal by the government of the United States, Banco de Bogota said in a note on Monday, referring to a proposal by US Republican lawmaker Mario Diaz-Balart to cut non-military aid to Colombia next year, partly on concerns of due process violations in the Uribe case. Uribe, who was placed under house arrest for two months in 2020, is head of the powerful Democratic Center party and was a senator for years both before and after his presidency. He has repeatedly emphasized that he extradited paramilitary leaders to the United States. Colombias truth commission says paramilitary groups, which demobilized under deals with Uribes government, killed more than 205,000 people, nearly half of the 450,000 deaths recorded during the ongoing civil conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paramilitaries, along with guerrilla groups and members of the armed forces, also committed forced disappearances, sexual violence, displacement and other crimes. Uribe joins a list of Latin American leaders who have been convicted and sometimes jailed, including Perus Alberto Fujimori, Brazils Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Ecuadors Rafael Correa, Argentinas Cristina Fernandez and Panamas Ricardo Martinelli. This is a developing story that has been updated and will be updated. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com ST. LOUIS Dozens of St. Louis firefighters showed up at a bench trial that began Monday, hoping to be paid for promotions they earned. Theyve earned that, Dan Eveland said. Hes the firefighter who first initiated the lawsuit. Were hoping this is going to be a final answer to us. Weve been waiting a long time. It does have a big effect on morale, Fire Chief Dennis Jenkerson told us following his testimony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chief Jenkerson cant get his promotions through because city hall stopped them a few years ago. The chief promoted based on approved testing that generated a list of those qualified. This is a brutal test and once I get the guys on the list or the women on the list, they deserve to be promoted, the fire chief said. 1 dead, 1 critically injured after altercation at north STL Wendys Politicians have long argued about the fairness of those tests. So, a new one was created and delivered last fall, which Eveland says wasnt very different, and that he improved his score. Its the same test and same testing company, Eveland said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement St. Louis City Hall will not comment on active litigation. We should note it was the previous administration that refused to acknowledge the fire chiefs decisions. That resulted in a lawsuit that is now in day one of a bench trial. I think well prove our point in the court case today, Eveland said. The trial should wrap up quicker than most jury trials, but it could take weeks for the judge to make a final decision. Its a decision that could immediately impact the estimated 40 open positions due to this controversy. The first couple captains on the scene, they know what they want to do, Jenkerson said. Now, were having privates run these scenes, which, theyre doing a good jobIm not saying thatbut these people should be promoted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. A judge in Brevard County has denied a motion to dismiss the death penalty notice against David Barber, despite concerns over pretrial publicity. Judge McKibben ruled that the document in question, which was released to news outlets, was not improperly disclosed by the State Attorneys Office. The release occurred following public records requests, and the document was reviewed for possible exemption from disclosure before being provided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The motion to dismiss the death penalty notice was filed by Barbers attorney, who argued that the documents release could prejudice potential jurors. However, the court found that the document did not constitute a statement by the State Attorneys Office, and thus did not violate any rules of professional conduct. The court also noted that any potential impact on jurors due to pretrial publicity could be addressed during jury selection. The judge emphasized that there was no legal basis to dismiss the death penalty notice as a sanction for the documents release. With the denial of the motion, the case against Barber will proceed with the death penalty still on the table. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) A Lansing-area landlord is being sued by the city for housing code violations at eight of his properties. Christian Nwobu, who owns more than 40 properties in Lansing, is being sued after a March investigation by the citys code officers found that each home had dozens of violations. All of those properties were red-tagged and have been for some time. However, some people are still living in those properties, though Nwobu claims he doesnt allow anyone to live in the homes. 6 News Investigates has been following this story for months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Woman evicted after investing thousands into home A housing code official testified at a hearing last month that some of Nwobus properties have broken windows, sewage backed up into basements, broken stairs, pieces from furnaces missing, unsafe water heaters and inoperable utilities. One property had a gas line running up to the main floor that wasnt capped off. In Mondays hearing, Nwobu was unable to provide the court with sufficient evidence that he was making progress on bringing these properties up to code. A judge fined him $500 for each property. He was also fined an additional $500 for a property on Ohio Ave, for a total fine of $4,500. A new hearing was scheduled for Sept. 2, the deadline for Nwobu to bring these properties up to code or face another fine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Tony Flores said a case like this can eventually lead to abatement, where the city hires someone to bring the property up to code and bills the owner. Nwobu is also a licensed contractor and said he is working hard to bring his homes back into compliance. He blamed the poor condition of his units on his tenants. I cannot be staying at my place and taking care of what the tenants would be doing, Nwobu said. When asked if he owns too many properties, Nwobu said that is not a question he is going to answer. Red, Pink and Taxes: Left living in unsafe homes In addition to code compliance issues, Nwobu owes $329,923.08 in property taxes to the City of Lansing as of July 25. This includes taxes for the 27 properties in his or his wifes name, as well as the 17 properties he manages for an individual named Manfred Woelfel, the listed owner, who lives in Germany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even if Nwobu fixes each property and lifts it into compliance, he would still need to pay property taxes for each unit to receive a rental license. He owes nearly $18,000 on his house on Lahoma, almost $7,000 on his Ohio Ave address, over $16,000 on his Hughes address, $1,600 on his address at S. Magnolia, nearly $33,000 between two adjacent properties on Cleveland and more than $6,000 on a Camp Street address. His property on Richmond Street is current on taxes. His cumulative delinquent tax amount on those eight properties is $81,616.38. Some of his properties havent had rental licenses since 2022. In an interview, one of Nwobus tenants said Nwobu loves helping people and said many of these people would otherwise be without a home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of his properties is under the Housing Voucher program, formerly known as Section 8 housing. Several of his properties previously received housing vouchers but all of his tenants have left and the program has suspended him from receiving vouchers due to the state of the homes. Director of the Lansing Housing Commission Doug Fleming told 6 News this situation is unprecedented and that Nwobus housing voucher tenants have been allowed to move midway through their lease, which is usually against the rules. Weve only had to do this to one other landlord, Fleming said. 6 News reporter Todd Heywood also contributed to this report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) A decision by a Springfield federal court judge is mostly good news for the owners of a now-closed Monson strip club that was sued by 30 professional models. Town of Monson to perform cyclical inspection of properties The suit alleges the Magic Lantern used the models pictures in advertising without their permission and without paying them; making it appear as though they worked at or endorsed the club. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The defendants argued that the statute of limitations for the claims had run out under Massachusetts law. Most of the images were posted to the Magic Lantern Facebook page prior to July of 2016. Massachusetts law gives defendants three years to file a claim, and the plaintiffs brought suit in 2024. Last week, U.S. District Court Judge Mark Mastroianni accepted the defendants motion for summary judgment on most of the images in question, meaning the court will issue a decision without trial. However, Mastroianni denied summary judgment on the matter of nine other images (which he says are subject to California law) as well as another claim under Arizona law and another under British law. A pretrial conference in the case is set for September 18, with a trial date of September 29 at U.S. District Court in Springfield. The Magic Lantern, which was located on Route 20 near the Palmer/Monson town line, closed in 2023. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. ALABAMA (WHNT) If you were subject to a recent AT&T data breach, you may be entitled to compensation, according to federal court documents. Based on AT&Ts preliminary analysis, the company said the first data set involved in a dark web data breach appears to be from 2019 or earlier, impacting approximately 7.6 million current AT&T account holders and approximately 65.4 million former account holders. The information involved in this breach, according to the Associated Press, included some Social Security numbers and passcodes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Full names, email addresses, mailing address, phone numbers, dates of birth and AT&T account numbers may have also been compromised, AP wrote. If your information was included in this data breach, you should have been notified by email or through a letter directly from AT&T. The second breach, according to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, says AT&T learned that a threat actor unlawfully accessed and copied call logs in 2024. Based on its investigation, AT&T believes that threat actors unlawfully accessed an AT&T workspace on a third-party cloud platform and, between April 14 and April 25, 2024, exfiltrated files containing AT&T records of customer call and text interactions that occurred between approximately May 1 and October 31, 2022, as well as on January 2, 2023, the SEC says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Documents filed on June 20, 2025, say the preliminary approved settlement provides for two non-reversionary Settlement Funds: $149,000,000 in cash for the benefit of the AT&T 1 Settlement Class $28,000,000 in cash for the benefit of the AT&T 2 Settlement Class The AT&T 1 Settlement Class consists of: [A]ll living persons in the United States whose AT&T 1 Data Elements were included in the AT&T 1 Data Incident. Excluded from the 1 Settlement Class are: AT&T, any entity in which AT&T has a controlling interest, and AT&Ts officers, directors, legal representatives, successors, subsidiaries, and assigns Any judge, justice, or judicial officer presiding over this Action, and the members of their immediate families and judicial staff Any persons who have Released Claims relating to the AT&T 1 Data Incident and/or the AT&T 1 Action prior to Final Approval Any persons who timely opt out of the AT&T 1 Settlement Class Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The AT&T 2 Settlement Class is defined as: AT&T Account Owners or Line or End Users whose AT&T 2 Data Elements were involved in the AT&T 2 Data Incident. The people excluded from the 2 Settlement Class are: AT&T, any entity in which AT&T has a controlling interest, and AT&Ts officers, directors, legal representatives, successors, subsidiaries, and assigns Any judge, justice, or judicial officer presiding over this Action, and the members of their immediate families and judicial staff Any persons who have Released Claims relating to the AT&T 2 Data Incident and/or the AT&T 2 Action prior to Final Approval Any persons who timely opt-out of the AT&T 2 Settlement Class. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you were subject to the data breach, federal documents say Notices and Claim Forms are set to start rolling out around August 4 and are said to be completed around October 17. Final approval hearing is set for December 3. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. A West Wareham man was charged with a fourth operating under the influence offense in connection with a fatal motorcycle crash that killed a 25-year-old man, Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruzs office said Monday. In Wareham District Court, Raymond Cardoza, 67, pleaded not guilty to one count each of operating under the influence manslaughter, operating under the influence (fourth offense), leaving the scene of an accident resulting in personal injury or death, and operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license. Judge Teresa Lamarre set Cardozas bail at $250,000, along with the following conditions: Cardoza must wear a GPS-monitoring bracelet, stay at home and use a Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring (SCRAM) device three times a day, Cruzs office said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cardozas bail was initially set at $100,000. Cardoza is next expected to appear in court on Aug. 27. At around 5:05 p.m. on Friday, Wareham police learned of a crash near 2628 Cranberry Hwy, Cruzs office said. First responders found Jordan Hansen, 25, on the ground with life-threatening injuries and took him to Tobey Hospital before he was taken to St. Lukes Hospital in New Bedford. At St. Lukes, Hansen was pronounced dead. Police spotted Cardoza driving in a Toyota about a quarter-mile away from the crash, with damage on the cars motor that was consistent with damage from a crash, Cruzs office said. Officers arrested Cardoza, who later told investigators that his birthday was that day and he had had two to three beers to drink that morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was on his way to Walmart when the crash happened, the statement read. During his interviews with police, officers could smell a strong odor of alcohol, Cruzs office said. After the investigation concluded, police arrested Cardoza. More public safety stories Read the original article on MassLive. (Photo by Getty Images) A Fairfax County Circuit Court judge on Tuesday granted a temporary injunction suspending eight gubernatorial appointees from serving on governing boards at the University of Virginia, Virginia Military Institute and George Mason, the latest development to rock Virginias higher education landscape this summer. The case stemmed from eight of Gov. Glenn Youngkins appointees continuing to serve on three university boards after the Virginia Senate Committee on Privileges and Elections rejected them. Democratic lawmakers said it represented a break from state law and reflected a pattern of politicizing Virginias institutions of higher learning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Simultaneously, the governing boards at the three institutions are using their authority to remove and consider new school leadership amid pushback by Democrats and federal investigations into DEI practices at GMU. The case comes weeks after UVAs president resigned after President Donald Trumps administration pressured the school to end its DEI efforts. The court found that the lawsuit, brought by nine Democratic Senators including Senate President Pro Tempore L. Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, and Committee Chair Aaron Rouse, Virginia Beach, can proceed. Circuit Court judge Jonathan D. Frieden opined that the Senate committees rejection of the appointees served as a signal that the legislature wasnt willing to confirm the new additions to the boards. Frieden issued his opinion Tuesday morning, following a two-hour hearing on Friday. Because confirmation of a gubernatorial appointee requires the majority vote of a quorum of each chamber of the General Assembly, the action of the Senate committee manifested the General Assemblys positive unwillingness to make the requested confirmations and constituted a refusal to confirm under the Constitution of Virginia, wrote Frieden. Accordingly, the Constitution of Virginia required the rejected appointees to immediately cease their participation on their respective boards. They have not done so. The court affirmed that, following the legal advice of Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, the rectors of the institutions have continued to recognize the rejected appointees as members of their respective governing boards and intend to continue doing so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defendants actions, past, present, and promised, demonstrate plaintiffs injury, which is particularized, distinct, traceable to defendants actions, and redressable by the court, Frieden wrote. Therefore, plaintiffs have standing to pursue their claims. Frieden determined that the case is not a political question that courts should avoid. The main issue is interpreting what the Virginia Constitution and law means. Additionally, he wrote that the senators have the right to sue, as they have a direct stake in the outcome and have suffered substantial harm, considering their votes were nullified. Lucas said in a statement on Tuesday that the Trump-Youngkin administration failed in an attempt to break the law to force university leaders to submit to their ideas. The Code of Virginia makes it crystal clear that appointees to Virginias public colleges and universities are under the constitutional authority of the General Assembly. Therefore, we are prepared to fight them every step of the way because the stakes are too high for students across the commonwealth, Lucas said. This isnt just about who sits on a board. Its about whether the future of Virginias colleges and universities will be guided by educators and experts, or hijacked by Trump, Youngkin, and their MAGA allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rouse added that the court affirmed what Democrats have maintained throughout the process, that the Senate has the constitutional authority to confirm or reject board nominees and it cannot be bypassed. The ruling is a victory for the rule of law and the people of Virginia, Rouse said in a statement. We will use every tool available to fight back against the attacks on our university system. We will continue to stand up for transparency, accountability, and the democratic process for Virginia, students, educators, and families. The defendants are likely to request that the preliminary injunction be suspended, with a judges decision expected by Friday morning. Although we are disappointed in the ruling, we were prepared for this possibility, said Shaun Kenney, a spokesman for the Virginia Attorney Generals Office, to the Associated Press. This case is straightforward. The Constitution is clear that it is the General Assembly, not a fraction of a Senate Committee, that is authorized to act. We will quickly file an appeal with the Supreme Court of Virginia and are confident in our position. This is a developing story that will be updated. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX With more than 100 children facing criminal charges without legal representation in Massachusetts juvenile courts, a single Supreme Judicial Court justice is weighing whether to extend a rare protocol already in place for unrepresented adult cases. The choice came before (SJC) associate Justice Dalila Wendlandt on Monday, as representatives from the Committee for Public Counsel Services, or CPCS, and the state Attorney Generals Office after CPCS submitted a brief requesting the expansion into Norfolk, Middlesex and Suffolk counties on Friday. The protocol called Lavallee and in place since the beginning of July essentially requires judges to release defendants held for longer than seven days without a lawyer and to dismiss charges against defendants whose cases have been pending for more than 45 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CPCS is not only asking for the implementation of that protocol for juvenile cases, but for a modification of its rules given the unique nature of that system. On Monday, the court grappled with the question of when a childs lack of a lawyer violates their rights and requires emergency action. While more than 100 children across the state were cited in the brief to have pending juvenile court cases without lawyer representation, there are zero children who are in custody or have been arraigned without an attorney, associate Attorney General Marina Pullerits told Wendlandt. We agree juveniles should be treated differently than adult defendants ... that is one of the reasons flexibility is so critical in the juvenile courts, Pullerits said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She emphasized the flexibility of juvenile courts several times throughout the hearing in those courts, she said, theres much more pre-arraignment work than adult courts, such as diversion programming. The juvenile courts position is, Pullerits said, that because no children have yet been arraigned or are being held without lawyers, the implementation of the Lavallee protocol or any similar decision isnt necessary at this time. However, the exact number of children whove gone to their first appearance in court without counsel is unknown, said CPCS representative Afton Templen and she said that without legal counsel, the children charged with crimes wont even be able to access the services Pullerits mentioned. Templen argued that there are juvenile defendants whose cases have been lingering for more than two months since the work stoppage, with repeated continued court dates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And if the Lavallee protocol were to go into effect for juvenile defendants, Templen said the clock for how long until their case is dismissed should be set for 15 days instead of 45. She said that 45 days is a lifetime for a child and especially unfair to those waiting since May. Thats unfair ... burden is not supposed to fall on the children and families impacted by the shortages, Templen said. Templen also argued that if the Lavallee protocol were in effect, some juvenile charges should be dismissed with prejudice, meaning they cannot be filed again the opposite of the current Lavallee protocol in place for adult court systems. This should be the case for cases where a child would have had a clear motion to dismiss or a clear first-offense argument if they had a lawyer initially, Templen said, which would prevent the case from repeatedly continuing without resolution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to Pullerits argument that the courts should handle cases on an individual basis, rather than with the Lavallee protocol, Wendlandt gave a hypothetical situation of a 15-year-old child charged with a crime this July. The child would continue to have court dates because they dont have a lawyer, as is happening now, Wendlandt said and by the time a lawyer would be available, that child could already be a junior in high school, with a case from years ago still over their head. Wendlandt ordered the representatives to file a joint statement by Aug. 4 that includes the number of children who have appeared for their first appearance in the state without counsel, and how many times those childrens appearances have been continued. She also asked for clarification on the circumstances of dismissals of cases with or without prejudice, and to resolve any discrepancies in the filed affidavit about current CPCS staff attorney caseloads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next hearing was scheduled for Aug. 6. Lavallee Protocol Read the original article on MassLive. Federal judges on Tuesday sharply questioned lawyers on a request to make Alabama subject again to the preclearance requirement of the Voting Rights Act after courts ruled the state intentionally diluted the voting strength of Black residents. Black voters and civil rights organizations, who brought a lawsuit that gave Alabama a new congressional map, are asking a three-judge panel to require any new congressional plans drawn in the next seven years go through federal review. The Alabama attorney general and the U.S. Department of Justice oppose the request. The Voting Rights Act for decades required states with a history of discrimination including many in the South to get federal approval before changing the way they hold elections. But the requirement of preclearance effectively went away in 2013 when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the provision determining which states are covered was outdated and unconstitutional. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The request is seeking to trigger the bail-in provision of the Voting Rights Act. Alternatively, plaintiffs are asking the court to retain jurisdiction so any new plans can be addressed. Deuel Ross, an attorney with the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, said Alabama demonstrated a pattern of resistance to drawing a congressional map that was fair to Black voters. He said the preclearance is needed to ensure Alabama doesnt backslide the next time maps are drawn. There is no question what happened in this case extraordinary, Ross told the panel. He pointed to the history of the case, including that lawmakers in 2023 intentionally defied a court order to draw a second majority-Black district or something close to it. Judges stepped in to select a new map for the state that was used in the 2024 elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alabama Solicitor General Edmund LaCour Jr. argued to the court that preclearance is an extraordinary remedy that is only appropriate after multiple violations. That test is not satisfied here, LaCour told the panel. During the hearing, the judges asked if there were less stringent remedies than preclearance. However, U.S. District Judge Terry Moorer told LaCour said the best way to predict what someone will do is to look at what they have been doing. He asked if the state expected to be divorced from its history and noted the actions of state lawmakers Hasnt the state shown us who they are? Moorer told LaCour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LaCour responded that the situation is different than when Congress created preclearance as part of the 1965 voting law. An attempt to persuade a court is far different than the attempt to evade a court that was happening in the 1950s and 1960s, LaCour said. The same three-judge panel in May permanently blocked Alabama from using the state-drawn map that they said flouted their directive to draw a plan that was fair to Black voters. The state is appealing that decision. A judge has sentenced a suspect in a Midlothian jugging robbery to 10 years in prison. U.S. Chief District Judge David Godbey sentenced 33-year-old Johnny Juwan Clark to 8 years in prison for the recent robbery, and another 2 years for a prior robbery, according to a July 29 press release from the Department of Justice. Clark had pleaded guilty in April. Clark was part of a Houston-area gang called the Hiram Clarke Money Team, known for jugging following victims after they service or withdraw from ATMs to rob them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Clark pled guilty, he admitted he traveled from Houston to the DFW area in a rental car on July 3, 2024, with intent to commit robbery. After arriving, he followed a technician as he repaired ATMs in Irving, Grand Prairie, Arlington, and finally Midlothian. Wearing a hoodie and face covering as a disguise, Clark approached the technician at 5:35 p.m. that day, while he was servicing a Chase Bank in Midlothian. At the time, Clark was on supervised release after a previous term in federal prison for robbery. Clark approached the technician from behind and forced him to the ground, the release reads. Clark kept his fist to the back of the victims head. Meanwhile, codefendants Corey Dashun Holloway and Roosevelt Ford Valentine, also from Houston, allegedly removed canisters of currency from the ATM. They made off with nearly $284,000 during this robbery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Afterward, Clark and the others fled in the rental car and reportedly met another codefendant, Tierra Tonisha Brandyberg, at an apartment nearby, according to the release. They allegedly loaded the money into a Range Rover and drove it back to Houston. There, officials said, Clark and Brandyberg used the stolen money to buy jewelry and a luxury Mercedes sedan. In court, Clark admitted he was the suspect who forced the technician to the ground in a photograph. Another photo shows the stolen money in the front seat of a car. Members of this Houston gang, the Hiram Clarke Money Team, are known to routinely travel to areas outside of Houston and engage in jugging style robberies and other forms of theft, according to the release. An Instagram page for Hiram Clarke money team features videos of men posing with large sums of cash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspects were indicted in December with conspiracy to commit interference with commerce by robbery, according to the release. Brandyberg pled guilty on July 8 and is waiting for sentencing. Holloway has indicated he will likely plead guilty, and his next arraignment is in August. Valentines jury trial is set for September. FBI-Dallas investigated the case. Jugging-style robberies are now a felony in Texas. The Dallas Police Department investigated an attempted jugging ambush, caught on camera, in 2023, as The Dallas Express reported at the time. Last year, Dallas-area police warned the public that these crimes could be more prevalent during tax season. Soon after, a jugging robbery took place southwest of downtown. CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) The FBI in Charlotte is warning people across North Carolina about a new scam: fake federal arrest warrants tied to missed jury duty. The FBI said scammers call, text, or email claiming you missed jury duty and now theres a federal warrant out for your arrest. To make it look legit, the FBI said they send you a copy of the fake warrant, sometimes using the names of actual judges, prosecutors, or federal agents in North Carolina. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then comes pressure. The FBI said victims are told they can avoid jail time if they pay a fine, often using a virtual currency machine or kiosk. These payment methods are hard to trace, which makes it easier for scammers to disappear with your money, federal officials said. In some cases, the caller ID is even faked to make it look like the call is coming from a government office or courthouse, the Charlotte FBI explained. What you need to know: Real arrest warrants are never sent by text or email Law enforcement will never ask you to pay a fine over the phone or with virtual currency If something feels off, hang up and contact the court or law enforcement directly Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you think youve been scammed, report it at www.ic3.gov. MORE FROM QCNEWS.COM Crime & Public Safety Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. The Justice Department filed a formal complaint on Monday, accusing U.S. District Judge James Boasberg of misconduct and demanding that he be removed from a high-profile deportation case and face reprimand. Boasberg has long faced the ire of President Trump, who at one point called for Boasbergs impeachment over his handling of the case. But Mondays letter escalates tensions with Trumps Justice Department, which newly demands Boasberg be investigated and referred for appropriate discipline. Judge Boasbergs actions have harmed the integrity and public confidence in the integrity of the judiciary, Justice Department Chief of Staff Chad Mizelle wrote in the five-page complaint, which was obtained by The Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complaint centers on comments Boasberg reportedly made to fellow judges at a March 11 meeting of the Judicial Conference, the federal judiciarys policymaking arm. The Federalist, a conservative outlet, earlier this month reported that Boasberg said he was concerned that the Administration would disregard rulings of federal courts leading to a constitutional crisis. The Justice Departments new complaint alleges Boasberg, an appointee of former President Obama, violated ethical obligations to promote public confidence in the integrity of the judiciary and refrain from public comments about matters pending in any court. These comments have undermined the integrity of the judiciary, and we will not stand for that, Attorney General Pam Bondi wrote on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complaint was sent to Sri Srinivasan, the chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Federal law provides that Srinivasan can dismiss the complaint, find that appropriate corrective action has been taken or appoint a committee to pursue further reprimand. The Hill has requested comment from Boasberg through a court spokesperson. Boasberg has faced intense backlash from Trumps allies for his handling of a challenge to the presidents use of the Alien Enemies Act, which Trump first invoked in mid-March to swiftly deport alleged Venezuelan gang members to a notorious megaprison in El Salvador. Days after the Judicial Conference meeting, the judge was assigned the case and swiftly ordered any airborne flights to turn around. The Supreme Court later lifted the ruling, saying the migrants had sued in the wrong venue. Boasberg has since accused the Trump administration of willfully violating his ruling and moved toward contempt, though an appeals court has for months halted the proceedings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Justice Departments new complaint seeks to immediately take Boasberg off the case as an investigation proceeds. It suggests Boasberg should face a public reprimand or even be recommended for impeachment if the investigation finds willful misconduct. Swift, visible action will reinforce the judiciarys institutional integrity by showing that judges are held to the same standards they enforce and deter comparable misconduct, Mizelle wrote. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. WASHINGTON (AP) The Justice Department on Monday filed a misconduct complaint against the federal judge who has clashed with President Donald Trump 's administration over deportations to a notorious prison in El Salvador. Escalating the administration's conflict with U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg, Attorney General Pam Bondi said on social media that she directed the filing of the complaint against Boasberg for making improper public comments about Donald Trump and his administration. The complaint stems from remarks Boasberg allegedly made in March to Chief Justice John Roberts and other federal judges saying the administration would trigger a constitutional crisis by disregarding federal court rulings, according to a copy of the complaint obtained by The Associated Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The comments have undermined the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary, the complaint says, adding that the administration has always complied with all court orders. Boasberg is among several judges who have questioned whether the administration has complied with their orders. The meeting took place days before Boasberg issued an order blocking deportation flights that Trump was carrying out by invoking wartime authorities from an 18th century law. The judge's verbal order to turn around planes that were on the way to El Salvador was ignored. Boasberg has since found probable cause that the administration committed contempt of court. The comments were supposedly made during a meeting of the Judicial Conference, the federal judiciarys governing body. The remarks were first reported by the conservative website The Federalist, which said it obtained a memo summarizing the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boasberg, the chief judge in the district court in the nations capital, is a member of the Judicial Conference. Its meetings are not public. The complaint calls for an investigation, the reassignment of the deportations case to another judge while the inquiry is ongoing and sanctions, including the possible recommendation of impeachment, if the investigation substantiates the allegations. Trump himself already has called for Boasberg's impeachment, which in turn prompted a rare response from Roberts rejecting the call. The complaint was filed with Judge Sri Srinivasan, chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 250 Venezuelans who were deported to a Salvadoran mega-prison known as the Terrorism Confinement Center, or CECOT, were sent home to Venezuela earlier this month in a deal that also free 10 U.S. citizens and permanent residents who had been held by Venezuela. But the lawsuit over the deportations and the administration's response to Boasberg's order remains in his court. The Justice Department on Monday filed a misconduct complaint against U.S. District Court Chief Judge James Boasberg, who has sparred with the Trump administration for months over its deportations of Venezuelan men to El Salvador. The complaint accuses Boasberg of "making improper public comments about President Trump and his Administration," according to a copy obtained by CBS News. Attorney General Pam Bondi directed her chief of staff, Chad Mizelle, to file the complaint, a Justice Department source told CBS News. In the complaint, Mizelle cites Boasberg's attendance at a Judicial Conference of the United States on March 11, in which the judge warned that the Trump administration could "disregard rulings of federal courts" and trigger a "constitutional crisis." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mizelle also cites Boasberg's handling of a case involving alleged members of Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua who were flown to a Salvadoran prison earlier this year. Boasberg ordered the planes to turn around on March 15, after the Trump administration removed the men under the Alien Enemies Act. Boasberg subsequently held hearings in the case in which he has lambasted the conduct of Justice Department attorneys and questioned whether the Trump administration is acting in good faith to guarantee due process for those it has removed from the U.S. or intends to remove. "Throughout the proceedings, Judge Boasberg rushed the government through complex litigation, sometimes giving the Trump Administration less than 48 hours to respond and threatening criminal-contempt proceedings and the appointment of an outside prosecutor against senior Trump Administration officials for failing to comply with an order that had already been vacated," Mizelle wrote. Bondi wrote in a post on X that the judge's remarks "have undermined the integrity of the judiciary, and we will not stand for that." The complaint was addressed to the Chief Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, Sri Srinivasan. Typically, complaints about judges are first reviewed by the chief judge of the appellate circuit, who can either dismiss them or refer them to a committee for investigation. After that, a council of judges decides whether to take corrective action, which can include reprimanding the judge and avoiding assigning new cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judges can only be removed from the bench through impeachment proceedings, which requires two-thirds of senators to vote to remove them. Earlier this year, the Trump administration filed a similar complaint against D.C. District Judge Ana Reyes for what they claimed was "hostile and egregious misconduct" during a hearing in February over the Trump administration's attempts to ban transgender servicemembers from the military. The D.C. Circuit has not yet addressed the Reyes complaint. CBS News has reached out to Boasberg's chambers for comment. Boasberg accuses Trump administration of "obstructionism" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In April, Boasberg said there was probable cause to find the Trump administration in criminal contempt over what he said was its defiance of his order to turn around planes carrying Venezuelan migrants bound for El Salvador. Dozens were put on two planes on March 15, removed to El Salvador and placed in detention at CECOT, a maximum security prison, despite an order issued by Boasberg to stop the removals and turn around the planes. Boasberg said in his April decision that the government's actions "demonstrate a willful disregard" for his order barring the government from transferring certain migrants into Salvadoran custody under the Alien Enemies Act, which previously had been invoked only three times in history, while the nation was at war. He accused the government of "increasing obstructionism" and "stonewalling" over its refusal to answer basic questions that aimed to resolve whether noncitizens who were removable solely under Mr. Trump's proclamation were transferred out of U.S. custody after the judge issued his order forbidding their deportation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Defendants provide no convincing reason to avoid the conclusion that appears obvious from the above factual recitation: that they deliberately flouted this court's written order and, separately, its oral command that explicitly delineated what compliance entailed," Boasberg wrote. Boasberg's handling of the case has drawn pushback from the administration. In March, Mr. Trump called the judge "Crooked" and called for his impeachment. Forensics expert analysis of Jeffrey Epstein jail video contradicts government's claims Russia reacts to Trump's new deadline on Ukraine ceasefire Immigration agent told 18-year-old U.S. citizen "you got no rights here" during arrest MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The family of a Midland woman who died after a hit-and-run crash is asking for the communitys help through a newly launched fundraiser titled Justice for Noraima Justicia para Noraima. 31-year-old Noraima Hernandez was struck by a pickup truck on the evening of July 23 as she walked home from her evening exercise. It happened in the 3600 block of Thomason Drive, where witnesses say a black or dark gray Dodge or Ford pickup hit her and then fled the scene without stopping. Hernandez was rushed to Midland Memorial Hospital in critical condition. After days on life support, her family shared that Noraima passed away on July 27. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surrounded by love, she left this world far too soon, wrote Margarito Hernandez, who organized the GoFundMe on behalf of the family. We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of prayers, support, hospital visits, and generous donations during this unimaginable time. According to the fundraiser page, Noraima did not have health insurance, and the unexpected tragedy has created a heavy financial burden for her husband and children. Funds raised will go toward covering medical bills, funeral expenses, and helping her family navigate the difficult days ahead. The Midland Police Department continues to investigate the crash as a fail to stop and provide information, a second-degree felony under Texas law. As of Monday, no arrests have been made. RELATED: Woman dies days after Midland hit-and-run, police searching for driver Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those wishing to support the Hernandez family can donate or share the fundraiser at: GoFundMe.com/f/justice-for-noraima The Hernandez family is leaning on their faith, their community, and the kindness of others to get through this tragedy, the fundraiser states. Any amount you can give, big or small, will be greatly appreciated. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) A juvenile male was arraigned in connection with a shooting incident at the Holyoke Mall on July 25, in which he allegedly shoplifted and produced a firearm, resulting in a shootout with an officer. In a news release sent to 22News from the Hampden District Attorneys Office, at around 4:30 p.m. last Friday, a Holyoke Mall security officer observed an individual allegedly shoplifting and alerted Holyoke Police Officers working a detail assignment inside the mall. Holyoke Mall issues statement following officer-involved shooting Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect was approached by officers near the Round 1 entrance, where he allegedly showed a firearm. The suspect and an officer exchanged gunfire. Holyoke Police say that the suspect, a juvenile, was shot in the leg. The suspect was provided first aid and brought to the Baystate Medical Center in Springfield. The suspects firearm was recovered. The suspect, whose name is not released due to their age, was arrested. On Monday, the suspect was arraigned virtually in Springfield Juvenile Court. He is being held without the right to bail. Additionally, the judge ordered bail set at $100,000 cash, without prejudice. He is scheduled for a court hearing on August 4th. This harrowing situation could have ended much worse. Juveniles and guns is a recipe for disaster, said Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni. The juveniles alleged behavior is appalling and we will seek accountability to the fullest extent of the law. We are grateful that no innocent people or officers were injured. While this incident can cause fear, the Holyoke Mall is a safe place to shop and visit. We have officers here to deal with incidents like this and ensure that the public is safe, stated Holyoke Police Chief Brian Keenan. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach speaks on election night on Nov. 9, 2022, after appearing to win the attorney general seat. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector) TOPEKA The Kansas attorney general wants U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate a Chinese energy organization he accuses of waging environmental lawfare. In a letter sent to Bondi on Monday, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach urged the Justice Department to open an investigation into The Energy Foundations actions in the United States, including its ties to climate lawfare in the courts, he said. He linked The Energy Foundation, commonly called Energy Foundation China, to the Chinese Communist Party. He offered no evidence of such connections. Lawfare refers to the use of lawsuits or legal challenges to drive political goals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter came after Kobach sounded the alarm on new threats in environmental litigation in June testimony to a U.S. Senate subcommittee. Environmental lawfare threatens not only American economic prosperity and energy security, Kobach said in written testimony. (In) its latest forms, it also threatens the American constitutional order. Energy Foundation China previously operated with the United States Energy Foundation before splitting in 2019 into two separate charitable nonprofits. Energy Foundation China, headquartered in San Francisco with a Beijing office, works to further Chinese industry in climate change, emissions reductions and clean energy transitions, according to its website. The U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce found in 2024 that Energy Foundation China has given money to American organizations to further green energy and climate education, research and projects. Kobach argued in his testimony that the Chinese Communist Party plainly has a strategy of driving the United States away from domestic energy sources and increasing U.S. dependence on sources that rely on a Chinese supply of solar panels, electric vehicle batteries, and other technologies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He identified two new threats in environmental litigation in the U.S. The first involves state legislatures and state regulatory bodies that, in recent years, have placed themselves in the shoes of the federal government adopting draconian environmental standards, Kobach said. The way to stop them is by suing, Kobach said. The second is local governments, such as cities and counties, suing energy producers seeking massive compensation for alleged harms to people and the environment, he said. One such case is in Ford County, Kansas, where a group of citizens sued companies in 2024, including ExxonMobil, Chevron and the American Chemistry Council. They argue that the plastic and chemical companies lied for decades about the recyclability of plastic, creating a pollution crisis. Kobach says Ford County residents claim to represent every county in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Setting aside the merits of their environmental claims, which are dubious at best, the plaintiffs in this case are attempting (to) usurp the authority of the 50 states, as states, he said. Only a state attorney general can bring a case of this nature, which seeks to remedy an alleged injury to the health, safety, or welfare of the public at large. He encouraged Congress to modify the Clean Air Act to add that no state may penalize, fine, or regulate the emissions of companies engaged in the production of energy or extraction or transmission of fossil fuels. In the letter to Bondi, Kobach said the hearing before the subcommittee contained dramatic disclosures about significant financial support to the environmental lawfare campaign from the Chinese Communist Party. He also alleged that Energy Foundation China plays a central role in the new threats in U.S. courtrooms and state legislatures. It is one thing to watch left-wing law firms and non-profits use laws designed to impose extraterritorial burdens to advance their radical policy interests in the courtrooms of America to the detriment of our consumers and our economy, he wrote, but when such legal actions are tied to China, it likely reveals a foreign adversarial attack on American energy independence. KANSAS CITY, Mo. Attorneys have been appointed to represent a Kansas City, Kansas, man charged with capital murder in the killing of a Wyandotte County sheriffs deputy. Shawn Harris, 38, has been charged with one count of capital murder and one count of criminal possession of a weapon by a felon for the death of 34-year-old Elijah Ming. Man faces capital murder charge in deadly shooting of Wyandotte County deputy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Online court records show that three attorneys with the Kansas Death Penalty Defense Unit have been appointed to represent Harris: Mark Manna, chief attorney of the Kansas Death Penalty Defense Unit Peter L. Conley with the Kansas Death Penalty Defense Unit Steve Rupert with the Kansas Death Penalty Defense Unit FOX4 reached out to Manna, who sent us the following statement: Our office has been appointed to represent Mr. Harris. Our office handles representation of all indigent criminal defendants charged with capital murder across the State of Kansas. At this time we have no further comment. What is the Kansas Death Penalty Defense Unit? The Kansas Death Penalty Defense Unit is a specialized division within the Kansas State Board of Indigents Defense Services (BIDS), which focuses on providing legal representation to those facing capital murder charges in Kansas, specifically those who cannot afford their own attorney. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the BIDS website, an average of 85% of adults charged with felonies in Kansas qualify for the services it provides. During fiscal year 2020, BIDS said it handled more than 26,000 cases. How you can donate to family of fallen Wyandotte County Deputy Elijah Ming Attorneys within the Kansas Death Penalty Defense Unit are appointed to cases by the court, in accordance with state law. Our office is automatically appointed by the court to any capital murder case in which a criminal defendant is determined to be indigent, Manna told FOX4 via email. We are part of the public defender system and a State of Kansas agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BIDS typically bears the cost of defending capital murder cases. The funds for this come primarily from the state, according to the Kansas Legislative Research Department. The 2021 Legislature approved a budget of $41.8 million, including $41.2 million from the State General Fund, for BIDS for fiscal year 2022, according to a budget analysis report. Previous coverage Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. TOPEKA (KSNT) Kansas Governor Laura Kelly is joining another prominent Democrat in stepping away from the bipartisan National Governors Association (NGA). Kelly is currently the Chair of the Democratic Governors Association. She told 27 News that she, alongside Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, are leaving the organization over disappointment with the groups failure to push back against the administration of President Donald Trump. Kelly said Kansas is not benefitting enough from the NGA for her to remain a member. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just felt like Kansas was not getting a return on investment, and we will keep our eyes on it, Kelly said. The NGA does some very good things particularly in the area of training for governors staff, but there also needs to be a state rights advocate and I think theyve sort of fallen down on that role. Why legalizing weed in Kansas isnt working Kelly said she will stop paying her NGA dues at the end of July. Additionally, she said shes open to rejoining the group once it focuses more on advocating for states. For more Capitol Bureau news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. TOPEKA (KSNT) A top GOP leader is the latest to throw his name into the race for the next Kansas governor. On the latest episode of Inside Kansas Politics, co-host Rebekah Chung sat down with Kansas Republican Senate President Ty Masterson, after he announced his run for Kansas governor. Hes weighing in on everything from public education, medicaid expansion, abortion and marijuana. Inside Kansas Politics also spoke with the following gubernatorial candidates for the 2026 race: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas to receive frozen federal education funds Also in the show, political science professor, Bill Fiander, sat down with Rebekah Chung and Rob Hughes. He weighs in on a new state audit, stating that state agencies are failing to properly report abuse, as well as the new EV battery plant in De Soto. You can watch Inside Kansas Politics at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday mornings only on KSNT (check your local listings). To get the latest news on Inside Kansas Politics, check out our X account, or follow us on Facebook. If you have a story you think we should cover, email us at ikp@ksnt.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas is failing to properly report abuse, neglect and exploitation cases: audit report For more Capitol Bureau news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and signing up for our news email alerts. Get the latest in weather alerts by downloading our Storm Track Weather App. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. KANSAS (KSNT) Kansas Task Force 1 (KS-TF1) has returned to the Sunflower State after 15 long days of search and rescue operations in flooded parts of Texas. The 15 members of the KS-TF1 returned to their families, loved ones and coworkers on July 27. The task force helped search for flooding victims by navigating dangerous floodwaters, working along K9 teams and covering miles of terrain. The relationships built within the team on a deployment cannot be explained in words, only in experience, the Kansas Fire Marshal wrote on Facebook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shawnee County calls all departments to help cut budget by $2.7 million Photos courtesy of the Kansas Fire Marshal on July 29. Photos courtesy of the Kansas Fire Marshal on July 29. Photos courtesy of the Kansas Fire Marshal on July 29. Photos courtesy of the Kansas Fire Marshal on July 29. Members of KS-TF1 shared the thank-you cards they received and also signed rocks, a tradition among KS-TF1 members to keep personal mementos. On July 12, Governor Laura Kelly announced that Kansas deployed two Type 3 swift-water rescue teams to impacted areas of Texas. The teams were assigned to Kerrville and Kerr County, Texas. Photos provided courtesy of the Kansas State Fire Marshals office on July 18. Photos provided courtesy of the Kansas State Fire Marshals office on July 18. Photos provided courtesy of the Kansas State Fire Marshals office. Photos provided courtesy of the Kansas State Fire Marshals office on July 18. Photos provided courtesy of the Kansas State Fire Marshals office on July 18. The response followed Texass request to the Kansas Division of Emergency Management for assistance in the disaster. The request was made as part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a multistate mutual aid agreement. As part of the agreement, Kansas will be reimbursed for the cost of deployment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. Karen Reads lawyer bewildered by delay in returning property With her high-profile criminal case concluded, Karen Read is now pushing for the return of her personal property, including three cell phones and a Lexus SUV valued at approximately $60,000, all of which were seized by the Massachusetts State Police. Steve Boozang, a Dedham-based defense attorney who recently joined Reads legal team, has filed two motions seeking their immediate return. I put a call in to the Norfolk DAs office and inquired about getting back the personal cell phone as well as the car, stated Boozang. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When I didnt hear back after a month, it was time to... file a motion and let a judge order the items to be returned. As Boston 25 News reported on Monday, Boozang first filed a motion to reclaim Reads 2021 Lexus LX570 and one personal phone. On Tuesday, Investigative Reporter Ted Daniel obtained a second request filed by Boozang for the return of two additional phones belonging to Read. These two phones were seized by State Police in January 2024 during an attempt by special prosecutor Ken Mello to indict Read and Aidan Kearney, the content creator known as Turtleboy, on witness intimidation charges That attempt to indict Read and Kearney was ultimately blocked by a grand jury. They returned no bill, meaning there was no evidence whatsoever that Karen Read or Aidan Kearney had committed any crimes, Boozang explained. Im bewildered why those phones werent turned back over immediately." Kearney already faced numerous charges for his activism in the Read case and spent 60 days in jail prior to the March attempt to indict him and Read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked if he had received any rationale for the continued retention of the items, Boozang suggested a potential motive: Well, you know, I think the civil lawyers may have some interest in it. He added, The civil lawyers can fight in another case if they want phones or cars or anything. Boozang is referring to the wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of John OKeefe against Read, which is the civil case currently pending. Boston 25 News has reached out to the Norfolk District Attorneys office to ask why the items have not yet been returned to Read and if there are any established protocols for their return. Late Tuesday, the office emailed a reply of no comment. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Debt creditors are on the prowl for federal officials. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt owes $326,370.50 in the aftermath of her failed 2022 congressional campaign, according to a new disclosure filed with the Federal Election Commission. Her campaign committee, Karoline for Congress, didnt raise any money during April, May, or June of this year, failing to pay off a dime of her mountainous debt, according to the disclosure. The majority of the debt is the result of accepting illegal campaign contributions that exceeded federal limits, the bulk of which she has not yet returned, reported OpenSecrets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The campaign committee reported in June that it had spent the illicit funds a long time ago and currently had no cash on hand. Some of the individuals owed refunds include former New Hampshire Governor Craig Benson, as well as the late New Hampshire Senate Majority Leader Robert Clegg Jr. Karoline for Congress also owes more than $46,000 to Missouri-based consultant Axiom Strategies, $41,000 to Missouri-based polling firm Remington Research Group, and nearly $13,000 to Washington-based fundraising firm Fundraising Inc. Other donors, however, did scrape by before the committee stopped dishing out refunds. They, conveniently, included Leavitts parents, according to NOTUS. The committee is currently under audit by the FEC. The excessive donations went unreported for years, but in January, the group amended 17 prior campaign finance reportseach one it had ever madeto account for the unlawful discrepancy, NOTUS reported at the time. An unidentified source close to Leavitt told OpenSecrets that Leavitt doesnt personally owe anyone money, and underscored that Karoline for Congress is working with the FEC through the audit and that process is ongoing, hence the outstanding debt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement End Citizens United, a Democratic-aligned PAC, sued Karoline for Congress over the illegal donations in November 2022, but little has changed since then. The FEC has lacked the minimum four commissioners necessary to initiate investigations since May. Donald Trump has the sole authority to nominate the commissionerswho must then be confirmed by the Senatebut so far the president has not nominated a single individual to the regulatory agency, despite recommendations from congressional leaders. Cases like this send a clear message: If you break campaign finance laws, nothing will happen to you, End Citizens United President Tiffany Muller told OpenSecrets. Its open season for corrupt leaders who want to game the system and get away with it. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A reminder from Tipton County fire officials to wear a life vest on the water after a kayaker was rescued from the Mississippi River near the Duvall Landing over the weekend. According to the fire department, a kayaker got into trouble after he flipped his boat on the river Sunday morning. The Swiftwater team from the Tipton County Fire Department, which includes team members from both the Tipton County Fire Department and the Munford Fire Department, responded to the scene. Water rescue. Courtesy: Tipton Co Fire Dept. The Tipton County Sheriff Department, TWRA, US Coast Guard, and Millington Fire Department were also assisted with the rescue operation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The male kayaker was located approximately one mile downstream from the Duvall Landing ramp, still in the water, swirling inside a whirlpool, and unable to swim towards the shore. The mans daughter was in another kayak and was able to reach shore to call for help. The man was pulled from the water by personnel and taken safely back to Duvall Landing boat ramp. Rescuers said the father and daughter were both wearing life jackets, which helped keep them afloat above the strong currents of the Mississippi River. Water rescue. Courtesy: Tipton Co Fire Dept. We want to remind anyone enjoying the Tennessee waterways this summer to always wear a life jacket. This is a perfect example of how the outcome might have been very different had life jackets not been worn, said Tipton County Fire Chief Jon Piercey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Piercy thanked all the participating agencies for their assistance and prompt response. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Kaylee Goncalves' mother, Kristi Goncalves, was allegedly targeted with a disturbing threat during the sentencing proceedings for Bryan Kohberger. Kohberger is the man accused of murdering her daughter and three other University of Idaho students and was sentenced to life in prison on July 23 at a hearing in the Ada County Courthouse. According to Kaylee's father, Steve Goncalves, the threat was sent to Kristi by someone claiming to be a supporter of Bryan Kohberger during the sentencing hearing. Kaylee Goncalves' Mom's Address Was Reportedly Given To A Serial Killer ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA During the sentencing hearing for Kohberger, the mother of one of his victims reportedly received a text threatening her life and that of her family, according to NewsNation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking with the outlet's show "Banfield," Kaylee Goncalves' father, Steve Goncalves, shared details about the chilling message his wife, Kristi Goncalves, received from an individual claiming to support the accused killer. "Sitting near you in court and watching you is a joke. You know that Bryan is innocent," read a part of the text. The individual further threatened that they knew "a lot of serial killers," including convicted murderer Dennis Rader, who killed at least ten people over a span of three decades. They added, "I've been put in contact with a wannabe serial killer who is in Moscow, Idaho, and I have given him your address." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the moment, the individual who sent the text has yet to be identified, although Steve stated that authorities are investigating the threat. The Victim's Father Found Bryan Kohberger's Plea Deal 'Suspicious' Ada County Sheriff's Office/MEGA In the wake of Kohberger signing a plea deal that allowed him to avoid trial and possibly the death penalty, Kaylee's family has been intensely outspoken about the decision. In the interview, Steve, once again, took aim at the deal, saying he found it "suspicious." He also stated that the deal, which does compel Kooherger to reveal his motives, only further fuels his supporters and others like the convicted killer. "By hiding those details of what happened to my daughter and the other victims, it gave fuel to these people. It gave them a wishful thinking that they were, like, defending a PhD grad people don't want to root for, like, a skinhead or a cop killer," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I know some of the other families have already changed their opinion of the deal, knowing all the facts that have come out, so I think it's suspicious that he purposely never let this information out," the grieving father continued. Expert Claims Bryan Kohberger's Motives Were 'Psychosexual' MEGA At the hearing where Kohberger was handed four consecutive life sentences, the convicted murderer respectfully declined to give any comments, leaving the reasons behind his motives still unknown. On Monday, a forensic psychologist shed light on what those motives could be in a new Daily Mail podcast. "Kohberger is quite easy to figure out. His motives, as demonstrated in what was on the ground, are fairly classic," said Dr. Gary Brucato to host Laura Collins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are clues that this was psychosexual. Kohberger was viewing deeply disturbing pornography and he clearly idolised sexually motivated serial killers." The Killer Felt 'Rejected' By 'Attractive Young Women' MEGA Brucato also noted that Kohberger's purchase of the murder weapon months before the crime further lends credence to his theory. "That means you have a fantasy, then you go out like a casting agent to find a person you can cast in your fantasy," he said. Brucato added, "A representative of the group he felt rejected by. Attractive young women he homed in on a specific victim who was representative of that whole group." Expert Reacts To Bryan Kohberger's Victims' Families' Impact Statement MEGA Brucato also weighed in on the victim impact statements, which contained very pointed remarks directed at the convicted murderer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kaylee's sister, Alivea, called the Idaho killer "insecure," "pathetic," and "predictable." Meanwhile, Steve described Kohberger as a "complete joke" whose "foolish" and "careless" actions made it easy for him to be caught. Kristi's statement carried the most shock value, as she revealed that her youngest daughter, Aubrie, wanted Kohberger to know he would be "getting big Ds in prison." Reflecting on these impact statements, Brucato shared that "The families' approach was to try and get under [Kohberger's] skin." Big D's: During Bryan Kohberger's sentencing hearing, one of the victim's mother made a chilling statement. The last line will shock you. Ty @TheYoungJurks pic.twitter.com/5Zn0pyOfYi Microdots (@DropMicrodots) July 23, 2025 "Those killers want to level the playing field through domination, control, and manipulation of other people, usually in a psychosexual way, or in the playing out of some sort of fantasy," Brucato noted about the convicted murderer and his likes, before praising the families' approach. He added, "The idea is to tear them apart: to show that nothing that was done did that. That in the end, no one cares about you. That they've achieved no degree of notoriety beyond kind of a flash. I think that's terrific." Alivea Gonclaves made a profound impact during her victim impact statement at Bryan Kohberger's sentencing on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. During her speech, which has now gone viral, Alivea Goncalves slammed Kohberger for savagely murdering four University of Idaho students, one of whom was her sister, 21-year-old Kaylee Goncalves. Now, speaking with the hosts of "Good Morning America," Alivea Goncalves opened up about how she prepared to deliver her emotional statement, revealing she "stalked" Bryan Kohberger before finally seeing him face-to-face. Kaylee Goncalves' Sister Reveals What She Was Thinking While Slamming Bryan Kohberger During Her Victim Impact Statement For those unfamiliar with the events that occurred during Kohberger's sentencing on July 23, Alivea shared a victim impact statement that left everyone, including the judge, wiping away tears. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm not here today to speak in grief. I'm here to speak in truth, because the truth is my sister Kaylee and her best friend Maddie were not yours to take," Alivea told Kohberger inside the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho. "They were not yours to study, to stalk, or to silence. They were two pieces of a whole, the perfect yin and yang. They are everything that you could never be: loved, accepted, vibrant, accomplished, brave, and powerful." She continued, "The truth is, the scariest part about you is how painfully average you turned out to be. The truth is, you're as dumb as they come, stupid, clumsy, slow, sloppy, weak, dirty." But it was Alivea's final statement that truly ignited the public's reaction. "You want the truth. Here's the one you'll hate the most, if you hadn't attacked them in their sleep, in the middle of the night, like a pedophile, Kaylee would have kicked your f-cking a-s." Alivea Goncalves Was Worried She'd Be Arrested The Day Of Bryan Kohberger's Sentencing According to Alivea, she knew her statement would be powerful. She was also, however, concerned that she'd face trouble of her own the day of Kohberger's sentencing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I was prepared to be arrested that day," Alivea shared, adding, "I think that every single one of us were." Alivea revealed that she was motivated "by the rage on [Kohberger's] face" as she recited her impact statement. "Man, was he mad." She went on to say that seeing Kohberger seethe was "a big point of why I did what I did." "To make him feel small because he is," she said. "It actually makes me really emotional. I got up there knowing that my speech wasn't to Kaylee and Maddie. It was for them." Alivea Goncalves 'Stalked' Bryan Kohberger Before His Sentencing MEGA Throughout Alivea Goncalves' impact statement, she laced it with a plethora of different facts about the killer, including his failed rap career and his online IQ test. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alivea revealed that she had put a great deal of time and effort into perfecting her statement, including memorizing it so that she could maintain eye contact with Kohberger. "I had one shot at it, and I was going to make the most of it," she said, later sharing that she studied Kohberger intensely before his sentencing. "I mean, I stalked the stalker. I found everything that I could online from the beginning of time to now. It fueled me to know that I got you pegged," she shared. Social Media Users Praised Alivea For Her Chilling Speech ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA On social media, users immediately began praising Alivea for delivering a moving and chilling impact statement once it started going viral. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "SHE DIDN'T STUTTER, HER VOICE DIDN'T WAVER, NOTHINGGGGG," someone wrote on TikTok. Someone else noted, "I never heard an applause after a victim statement." Another commenter focused on the speech's likely impact on Kohberger's ego, writing, "This probably had him fuming on the inside. He's a huge egotistical narcissist." Alivea Honored By Netizens For Being An Amazing 'Big Sis' ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA The praise for Alivea didn't stop there, either. "That's a big sis," someone else wrote. "God bless all the victims' families." "Honestly, though, this is probably the only statement that got under his skin and made him mad," another social media user added. "Sociopaths HATE being told and made to feel like they are nothing being reminded of their failures." Kohberger pleaded guilty to the four murders days before his sentencing on July 23. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. KANSAS CITY, Mo. KC Mothers in Charge held a vigil Monday night, remembering the life of 17-year-old William Watson, who was taken to an area hospital after being shot on Sunday, July 20. Watson succumbed to his injuries on Friday, July 25. Kansas City, Missouri, Police are investigating the incident as a homicide. Major tech company to build new $10 billion 500-acre campus in Northland Family members say they dont know what led up to the shooting or who is responsible for killing the teen. They hope someone comes forward with information that will help the police solve this case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justice for sure. Anybody who knows what happened that night, because we dont know what happened, so anybody who knows what happened, just come forward, said family friend Micaiah. Family and friends gathered to remember Watson near the corner of 69th and Monroe, not far from where police believe the deadly shooting happened on the night of July 20. We lost a 17-year-old. Once again, were losing our children, our babies, by the dozens in our community. Its not okay. William Watson should be here. He was 17 years old, said KC Mothers in Charge founder Rosilyn Temple. How can we allow his life to be taken without doing something, saying something, making a difference? The vigil ended with a balloon release in the 17-year-olds honor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Micaiah said Watson, his mom and siblings recently moved out of state and were back in Kansas City visiting on the weekend of July 20. If Im honest, his mom is devastated. They were down here just visiting. William was supposed to be getting his drivers license. They recently relocated to Texas for a better life. So they just came here to do some last-minute things and visit, and then we got that call, Micaiah explained. He was just a child, 17 years old. Wasnt a problem kid. Never had been in any trouble. Members of KC Mothers in Charge organized the vigil and offered their support to Williams mother now and in the future. We came back to the community where it (the shooting) happened, where a life was taken, and let them know we arent going to allow that, Temple explained. We are going to support that family, and be there with that family and make a difference with that family. We are going to be there when everything is over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shooting reported in Waldo late Sunday night; 1 in critical condition: KCPD In the most recent case update, a spokesperson for KCPD stated that detectives do not have anyone in custody and are working to identify a person of interest. The investigation is ongoing. If you have any information that could help detectives solve this homicide, you are asked to contact KCPD homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-8477. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. HONOLULU (KHON2) Hawaii is on a hiring push, and city officials said the timing couldnt be better. Skyline segment two is preparing to launch service to the airport and Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam with a major stop at Ahua Station near Lagoon Drive. Investing in the future: Local teachers awarded grants by a community bank The Citys Department of Transportation said the station will become a key connection point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Are you experiencing Quiet Cracking? What you need to know Were looking for an October-ish opening, and from this point, were going to be at the airport. Were going to be at Lagoon and then Middle, but this is where were going to concentrate on getting our downtown buses into Waikiki into UH, explained Roger Morton, Department of Transportation Services Director. With new infrastructure comes new demands. From transportation to design, facility maintenance to city planning, more than a dozen departments are actively hiring. Check out whats going on around the nation on our National News page Think the city is maybe about 57% filled and we have a lot of vacancies and we need to keep the government moving. So this job fair is really important to us, said Lori Kahikina, Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Executive Director and CEO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event will be on Wednesday, July 30 at the Blaisdell Center and will bring representatives from nearly every city department together, including the Honolulu Police Department. HPD said its offering a $25,000 hiring bonus to new recruits. Sergeant Walter Espiritu said he is grateful to be an officer and proud to wear the uniform. Its almost not a job but a calling. When I started, we only made about $48,000 a year. Its quite some time ago and its definitely something youre called to and want to have that feeling of being a part of something bigger and making something better for the community, he said. Check out more news from around Hawaii Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The career expo runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. LONDON, July 29 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Tuesday Britain was prepared to recognize a Palestinian state in September at the United Nations General Assembly in response to growing public anger over the images of starving children in Gaza. Starmer spoke a day after talks in Scotland with U.S. President Donald Trump, who said he did not mind if Britain recognized a Palestinian state, though Washington Israels closest ally has long declined to do so. Britain, if it acts, would become the second Western power on the U.N. Security Council to do so after France last week, reflecting Israels deepening isolation over its conduct in its war against Hamas in Gaza, where a humanitarian disaster has set in and the Palestinian death toll has risen above 60,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer said Britain would make the move unless Israel took substantive steps to allow more aid to enter Gaza, made clear there will be no annexation of the West Bank and committed to a long-term peace process that delivers a two-state solution a Palestinian state co-existing in peace alongside Israel. The Palestinian people have endured terrible suffering, Starmer told reporters. Now, in Gaza, because of a catastrophic failure of aid, we see starving babies, children too weak to stand, images that will stay with us for a lifetime. The suffering must end. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers a statement inside No. 10 Downing Street on the day the cabinet was recalled to discuss the situation in Gaza, on July 29, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty Images) WPA Pool via Getty Images Starmer held a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before making his announcement, said a source, who asked not to be named. In response, Israels foreign ministry said in a post on X that Britains move constitutes a reward for Hamas and would harm efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sight of emaciated Gaza children has shocked the world in recent days. Earlier on Tuesday, a hunger monitor warned that worst-case scenario of famine was unfolding in Gaza and immediate action was needed to avoid widespread death. Israel has denied pursuing a policy of starvation. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday the situation in Gaza was tough but there were lies circulating about starvation there. With international criticism intensifying, Israel announced steps over the weekend to ease aid access. But the U.N. World Food Programme said it was not getting the permissions it needed to deliver enough aid. My statement on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and our plan for peace including the recognition of a Palestinian State. pic.twitter.com/aMUCNwJb9z Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 29, 2025 PARTY PRESSURE Starmers decision marks a striking reversal in policy after he last week disappointed many in his party by rejecting calls to recognize a Palestinian state, saying the timing must be right as part of a wider peace process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent days, Starmer has been increasingly vocal about the crisis in Gaza, saying this week that the people there faced an absolute catastrophe and the British public were revolted by the scenes of mass hunger and desperation. Starmer said that before taking a final decision his government would make an assessment in September on how far the parties have met these steps, but that no one would have a veto over the decision. He spoke after recalling his cabinet during the summer holidays on Tuesday to discuss a new proposed peace plan being worked on with other European leaders and how to deliver more humanitarian aid for Gazas 2.2 million people. Successive British governments have said they will formally recognize a Palestinian state when the time is right, without ever setting a timetable or specifying the necessary conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some lawmakers in Britains governing Labour Party said they thought Starmer had been reluctant to formally recognise a Palestinian state because it would mean distancing itself from the position of its closest ally, the United States. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Frances announcement last week recognizing a Palestinian state a reckless decision. China and Russia are the only other world powers that are permanent members of the U.N. Security Council to recognize a Palestinian state. SHIFTING POSITIONS The issue of recognition for a Palestinian state seen as a powerful diplomatic lever to put pressure on Israel came to the fore after President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday France would recognize Palestine as a state in territories Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel and staunch supporter the United States blasted Frances move, branding it a reward for Palestinian Hamas militants who ran Gaza and whose attack on Israel on October 7, 2023 triggered the current war. At the start of the Gaza war in October 2023, when Starmer was the opposition leader, he fully backed Israels right to defend itself. But his stance has shifted over the years to a tougher approach to Israel, especially since his election as prime minister just over a year ago. His government dropped the previous governments challenge over arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and has suspended some weapon sales to Israel. Last month, Britain sanctioned two far-right Israeli cabinet ministers, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, accusing them of repeatedly inciting violence against Palestinians. (Reporting by Andrew MacAskill and William James; additional reporting by Catarina Demony in London, Scott Malone in Washington, Michelle Nichols in New York and Andrea Shalal in Edinburghl; editing by Mark Heinrich) If Donald Trumps Turnberry press conference was a car crash for Labour, it was a 10-vehicle pile up for the Conservatives. They didnt get a look in, as the US President offered Starmer unsolicited advice on tax policy and rambled: I assume theres a thing going on between you and Nigel... Its two parties. The Tories greatest threat is an accelerated slide into irrelevance, with all momentum and political oxygen absorbed by Reform. After eight months of Kemi Badenochs leadership, this danger has only grown. Though elected on the belief she would be a disruptor, Badenoch has seemingly turned out to be the opposite, being barely noticed by the Great British Public. And the vacuum, as Trump perceives, is being filled by Farage. Last months YouGov MRP put Reform UK on 271 seats, Labour on 178 and the Tories on 46. Its Reform topping the polls, storming to council election victories, making sizable gains in Scotland and Wales. As summarised in an excoriating New Statesman essay last week: Kemi has lost her punch. Shes weak on economics, it is said, abrasive, too sensitive to criticism. The spat with Farage over membership numbers in December was a farcical own goal. And, at a time when the party seems to lack any direction, the decision to appoint pro-net zero, pro-ECHR James Cleverly into a senior role in the recent shadow reshuffle seems baffling. What signal was it intended to send? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some Badenoch-bashing may indeed be justified. Her PMQs appearances have occasionally been weak to the point of embarrassment. And she does have a tendency to retreat into the culture wars. Then again, Badenoch was the first to pledge an extension to Indefinite Leave to Remain that would delay giving migrants access to our public services. This is now Labour policy. She will reverse the cruel VAT on private school fees, along with the family farm tax. At the weekend, she proposed a ban on doctor strikes, which chimed with a weary public that no longer sees medics as gods. And lets hark back a few years. To when Badenoch voiced concern over the impact of the Online Safety Act would have on innovation and free speech. It is now feared that the legislation is blocking adults from accessing coverage of the grooming gangs scandal. To when, as Equalities Minister, she pledged to protect single-sex spaces for women. Or when she warned of the stifling effects of over-regulation on business growth. Many of her big calls were right; and made at a time when public opinion was leaning heavily the other way. Perhaps she could seek comfort in the knowledge Margaret Thatcher was at first written off by many in public and, even more, in the party. Jim Prior and his soggy coevals made no secret of their contempt, and thought they would be able to get rid of her. Less happily, Badenoch could also ask: has anyone considered what she is up against? Seriously, can any opposition leader ever have had it worse? The Tories suffered their most punishing electoral defeat ever in 2024. In the last MPs vote on who they wished to lead them, she had, with her 42 supporters, just one more than closest rival Robert Jenrick, and five more than Cleverly. Then there is the Reform threat, meaning there can be no return to business as usual for the Right. Tory successes have seldom depended on superior ability or efficiency. Instead, they have benefited from divisions on the Left. Now it is the Right which is split. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But here, surely, is the real rub: the Conservative Party has become ungovernable. Weve seen it over and over: May, Boris, Truss, Sunak all were consumed by it. That Badenoch is struggling to get a grip of this organisation with its dysfunctional staff and disloyal MPs isnt really surprising. Too many Tory MPs would be more comfortable on the Lib Dem benches, yet are staying put in the vain hope they can drag the party further to the mushy middle where they (wrongly) assume elections are won. The rot set in under David Cameron. His centrism had its appeal after dreary years in the wilderness stop banging on about Europe, talk instead about polar bears and the Big Society. But it shredded Conservative instincts, allowing them to give way to lanyard-wearing blandness. The result was a Parliamentary party unable to define its values, let alone stick to them. Fragmentation led, eventually, to the paralysis of the Last Days of Rishi. Now, the Party needs to stop gambling, stick with its chosen leader, and see how things turn out. Yet another unedifying leadership contest, presumably under the same glacial-speed election system where the candidates all bite chunks out of one another for months on end, would obliterate what little remains of their credibility. Between 1975 and 2016 they had six leaders. Since then, theyve had five. They dont need another. Farage is winning because Labour are imploding and the Conservatives are loathed. Yet two years from now, the picture could be very different. Reform may itself have descended into chaos. They are making up policies on the spur of the moment, the suggestion we nationalise 50 per cent of our water industry just the latest example. Why not 30 per cent, or 70? Why would pension funds want to invest in this sort of hybrid? Will enough voters really think Reform able to form a functioning government, when the current London-taxi-full of MPs struggle to tell a consistent story? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Impatient MPs may dislike Kemis steady as she goes approach. But there is good reason to follow Mrs Ts Stepping Stones strategy of identifying the huge problems an incoming government will face after the next election; working out the solutions needed to tackle them; and persuading people these are the right policies. To that end, there is a case for her announcing at the Party Conference in October that the next Conservative administration would leave the ECHR. Its the sort of bold statement weve not yet seen. It might encourage some Tory MPs who would have a jollier time with Ed Davey to defect, show she is serious about tackling illegal migration, and cut ground from under Farage. Modern party leaders face an impossible task. They are dragged into every issue or random event, have mutinous colleagues angling for the top job and plotting behind their back. They must placate a volatile electorate with the attention span of a fruit fly, too often filled with unreasoning bile and making six impossible, expensive demands before breakfast. No wonder theyre all over the place. After Weathervane Starmer we need someone with consistent principles, prepared to say no and mean it. Perhaps Kemi can get her mojo back. Im not sure theres anyone else on the Tory benches who could do any better. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. AUSTIN (Nexstar) Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton escalated a brewing conflict between Texas and New Yorks abortion laws. On Monday, Paxton announced he filed legal action against New York Acting Ulster County Clerk Taylor Bruck for refusing to enforce a $100,000 penalty against Dr. Margaret Carpenter. In February, a Texas district court ruled in favor of the state of Texas over Carpenter after she failed to file a response to Paxtons complaint. However, Bruck refused to enforce the judgement against the Ulster County resident. In accordance with the New York State Shield Law, I have refused this filing and will refuse any similar filings that may come to our office. Since this decision is likely to result in further litigation, I must refrain from discussing specific details about the situation, Bruck said in a prepared statement at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Carpenter is a radical abortionist who must face justice, not get legal protection from New York liberals intent on ending the lives of as many unborn children as they can, said Attorney General Paxton in a press release. No matter where they reside, pro-abortion extremists who send drugs designed to kill the unborn into Texas will face the full force of our states pro-life laws. New York vs. Texas In 2023, New York passed a Shield Law to protect their medical providers providing gender-affirming and reproductive care. The Shield Law broadly prohibits law enforcement and other state officials from cooperating with investigations into reproductive or gender-affirming health care (protected health care) so long as the care was lawfully provided in New York, the New York Attorney Generals Office says. According to court filings, Carpenter is not a resident of the State of Texas, but is a resident of the State of New York that has done business in Texas, and has not and does not maintain a regular place of business in Texas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its going to get us answers about the Shield Law and Shield Laws nationwide, Bruck said over the phone on Monday. Theres a lot of unknowns in this whole process right now, Im mostly curious as to how it will all shake out. Earlier this month, Bruck released another prepared statement after Paxton tried to enforce the judgement again. We have received your letter regarding the Dr. Margaret Carpenter judgment originally submitted for filing on March 17th, 2025. The rejection stands. Resubmitting the same materials does not alter the outcome, Bruck wrote on July 14. While Im not entirely sure how things work in Texas, here in New York, a rejection means the matter is closed. Have a good day. Excelsior. KXAN reached out to the Texas Attorney Generals office via email. New abortion proposals in special session On July 9, Texas Governor Greg Abbott added Protect Unborn Children to an expansive special session call sheet, allowing new anti-abortion legislation to be taken up in the 30-day special session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Monday, eight anti-abortion bills had been filed in the Texas House: House Bill 37 by State Rep. Jared Patterson, R-Frisco, House Bill 65 by State Rep. Briscoe Cain, R-Deer Park, and House Bill 66 would allow parents of an aborted fetus to take civil action against the provider of an abortion pill. The bills are partial refilings of Senate Bill 2880 from the regular session, which failed to get out of the House State Affairs Committee after passing the Texas Senate. House Bill 58 by State Rep. Mike Schofield, R-Katy, would create a special prosecutor to enforce abortion laws along with election and human trafficking laws. House Bill 69 by State Rep. Ellen Troxclair, R-Marble Falls, would prevent a physician from giving an abortion-inducing drug to a woman not physically present at a physicians appointment. House Bill 70 by Troxclair would prevent the transportation or the funding of transportation for minors. House Bill 95 by State Rep. Nate Schatzline, R-Fort Worth, would prevent selling abortion-inducing drugs online House Bill 163 by State Rep. Brent Money, R-Canton, would treat unborn children as full citizens for certain felony offenses. None of these bills have been referred to a committee yet. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Brief Ken Paxton is suing a New York county clerk This is due to an abortion ruling from December 2024 TEXAS - Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is filing a petition against a New York county clerk regarding an abortion ruling. What we know According to the Attorney General's office, in 2024, Paxton sued Dr. Margret Carpenter, who lives in Ulster County, New York, for sending abortion-inducing drugs to a Collin County resident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result of that lawsuit, Dr. Carpenter was ordered to pay $100,000 and received a permanent injunction by the Collin County Court. However, according to the Attorney General's Office, the Ulster County Clerks Office in New York has rejected attempts by Texas to enforce the penalty. Due to that, Paxton is now suing the New York Acting County Clerk for Ulster County, Taylor Bruck. The Source Information from the Office of the Attorney General WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. could imminently overhaul a key federal advisory panel that recommends which preventive services insurers must pay for, health and medical news website STAT News reported on Tuesday, citing a person familiar with the plans. Federal health officials are vetting new members for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, the report said. It also cited David Mansdoerfer, who advises a group allied with Kennedy, as saying he knew people being considered for the panel but that he declined to name them. Mansdoerfer, who served during President Donald Trump's first administration as deputy assistant secretary at the Department of Health and Human Services, later told Reuters that he knew "a couple" of those being considered. He added that he was not actively involved in the process, which he said could take from a few weeks to two or three months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Office of the White House Liaison at HHS is in charge of the vetting, said Mansdoerfer, now the chief strategy adviser to the Independent Medical Alliance, a group of physicians allied with Kennedy. This was also the case with candidates for advisory committees during his time at the department, he said. Asked if the people he knew of who were under consideration were physicians, Mansdoerfer said they were all clinical health professionals. He had earlier told STAT that the existing panel was "MD heavy" and that the reorganized one was likely to include other kinds of healthcare providers. The Wall Street Journal reported on Friday that Kennedy planned to remove all of the panel's 16 members. An HHS spokesperson said Kennedy had not yet made a decision. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force includes medical experts serving staggered four-year terms on a volunteer basis. Its role in choosing what services will be covered by insurers was established under the 2010 Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 40-year-old group, whose recommendations provide guidance to doctors, looks at everything from routine screenings for breast cancer to drugs to prevent HIV infection. (Reporting by Ahmed Aboulenein in Washington; Additional reporting by Christy Santhosh in Bengaluru; Editing by Matthew Lewis) HONOLULU (KHON2) Kenny Endo is celebrating 50 years in taiko drumming and has two concerts that you can enjoy. Henry Kapono and Lee Oskar collaborate on Summertime EP There will be two unique summer concerts available. On August 9th there will be Japanese classical and traditional festival music and dance, plus taiko collaboration with local jazz musicians. And on August 10th there will be the next generation of taiko artists from Taiko Center of the Pacific with all original compositions. Both concerts will be at the University of Hawaiis Kennedy Theatre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news For tickets and more information go to his website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) During extreme heat, many people limit their outdoor time or find ways to stay cool, like sitting by the pool or blasting the AC. But firefighters cant say the same when serving the community. They wear protective gear that covers them from head to toe. Its purpose is to keep them safe from active fires that can get up to 500 or 600 degrees, but as good as it is at keeping out heat, its going to keep it in as well. Each set of gear can weigh between 40 and 50 pounds, and with that comes many challenges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement District Chief David Waters said that fire gear is made with a thermal barrier and is worn to fight fires in any kind of weather. What is corn sweat and how can it effect Kentucky weather? He noted that the biggest challenges are that the hot temperatures bother their crew members, whereas in the cold, they have issues with equipment freezing up and problems on the truck. Waters said that nearly every call they face in the heat, a crew member will see signs of heat exhaustion. Fire doesnt change temperature in the summer or the winter. So, our structural firefighting here is the same all year long. It doesnt matter whether its hot or cold, right? So, we dont have a whole lot of choice. When were called, were going to respond, and were going to take care of our citizens. Whatever it takes, said Waters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When out on a call, Waters explained that there are many safety measures designed to help firefighters in the heat. He said during training, they will typically schedule for early morning or late evening. On call, he adds that the best thing for their crew is to keep them hydrated and cool. When we see temperatures like we are this week, they will bring extra crews out to the scene and rotate them to prevent people from overheating. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Our firefighters are our most important resource. We can have all the equipment in the world, but if we dont have people to do the job and do it well, its not good for the city, right? So, we try to keep them in good condition, try to keep them cooled down, and keep them rotated so that theyre safe and able to do their job effectively, said Waters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lexington city officials are also taking note of the high heat. The citys extreme heat plan will stay in effect through this Thursday. At this stage of activation, the resources include Partner organizations of the Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention will operate as cooling stations. Lextran will offer free rides to people experiencing homelessness to cooling stations. Outreach teams will be in the community, distributing supplies and assisting people in finding cooling stations and shaded areas. City waste collection will begin early, with residential services at 4:30 a.m. and commercial services at 3:30 a.m. Residents should place carts on the curb the night before their collection day. OHPI has opened cooling stations, with locations at Arbor Youth Services, Lexington Rescue Mission, Mountain Comprehensive Care Center, New Life Day Center, New Vista Drop-In Center, Nathanial Mission, and Recover Cafe Lexington. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) Leitchfield Rep. Samara Heavrin continues to fight for Angelas Law, a bill she pioneered that would extend death penalty eligibility to certain cases, like the death of Angela Kerr. Angela Kerr (Rogers Funeral Home) On March 12, 2021, I received a phone call that my daughter had been murdered, Doug Kerr, Angelas father, said in a July 24 meeting of the Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary. Read more of the latest Kentucky news Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Angela was 27 years old when she was killed by a Radcliff man with a lengthy criminal history. Hed spent just around one year of his adult life out of prison before being convicted of Angelas death, Heavrin testified on Thursday. The horror continued for the Kerr family when they found out, by watching the news, that their daughter had been found nude. They later learned that the man responsible filmed himself raping Angela after shed been killed, a crime punishable by a maximum of five years. Under KRS 525.120, abuse of a corpse is not considered an aggravating circumstance to pursue harsher penalties post-conviction. Theres never such a terrible thing as having to be told that your daughter was murdered and then taped, having sex with her, Doug said. If a victim is raped prior to a murder, then prosecutors may use the act to pursue the death penalty, as rape is considered an aggravating circumstance in KRS 532.025. Her mother, Angie Kerr, testified that she believes the crime should be treated as if Angela were still alive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He committed sex with her after she died, and shes not considered human. I dont think thats right. Shes still human to us even today, Angie said. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: The harshest penalties of the law are reserved for those who commit the worst crimes, Heavrin said. Unfortunately, our current laws do not afford these penalties, such as life in prison or death, for murderers who sexually degrade the remains of their victims. Angelas Law would allow prosecutors, in cases of murder and kidnapping eligible for the death penalty, to use the rape of a victims remains to pursue the harshest of penalties for the perpetrator. During the 2024 Regular Session, Rep. Heavrin filed House Bill 198, known as Angelas Law. She intends to reintroduce the legislation in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Angelas Law will allow a victims family to receive the much-deserved justice when subjected to such heinous crimes, Heavrin added. Whether a person is living or recently deceased, they are a human being in the eyes of the community and their family and should be entitled to the justice they deserve regardless of the time of their rape. Further, there is no place in civil society for individuals who act with such inhumane disregard for human life and abject indignity for human remains. Angelas family deserved a better outcome, and families of future victims deserve more from our justice system. Our commonwealth must ensure that those who murder and act with further inhumanity against their victim are unable to walk our streets in freedom. We must have Angelas Law. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) State lawmakers are exploring many options to energize Kentuckys housing shortage. At Mondays meeting of Kentuckys Housing Task Force, stakeholders from the business and banking community came to the table with proposals. Would you consider the housing issue a challenge, or is it a crisis? How would you characterize that? Sen. Robby Mills (R-Henderson) asked. I would probably say its a crisis, Kentucky Chamber of Commerce director of public affairs John Hughes responded. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And not one that will be solved quickly. As shared with this group of lawmakers by the Kentucky Housing Corporation in the task forces last meeting, right now, Kentucky is short 206,207 housing units. Mondays meeting of the task force took another step in exploring pro-growth proposals for possible new laws in 2026. Practical, pragmatic, relatively low-cost or no-cost reforms that can help either streamline permitting, remove local red tape that stands in the way of housing construction, reduce litigation risk, or otherwise speed up the production of housing, researcher Charles Gardner said in his presentation exploring a menu of options. Some of those proposed reforms may just be simple changes to building codes; Gardner suggested changing a requirement for multiple stairwells in smaller apartment buildings, as an example. Other solutions are a bit more complex. The Kentucky Chamber is proposing a revolving loan fund modeled after an infrastructure assistance program in Indiana. LATEST KENTUCKY LISTS AND RANKINGS: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Residential Housing Infrastructure Assistance Program provides low-interest loans to communities to finance infrastructure projects that support residential housing development. As the loans are repaid and the money again becomes available for future financing, that fund resolves, Hughes explained. The banking community also wants to work with lawmakers on a loan pool for creating new housing. The Kentucky Bankers Association wants to commit $20 million to a fund that is matched with tax credits. KBA general counsel Tim Schenk said it is something the organization is more hopeful to get accomplished in a budget session, which 2026 will be. By virtue of utilizing some tax credits, with developers, builders, and bankers. We can typically offer tenant rents that are 15% lower than that of traditional, Schenk explained. So if you think of a community like Morehead, where maybe their average tenant rate is $1,200 a month, you take that down to $800 or $900 a month. All of a sudden, that can cover their utilities, he said. The task force meets again to continue the discussion for next years housing legislation on Aug. 25. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A 10-year veteran of the Kern County Sheriffs Office is undergoing the fight of his life. Brandon Hicks was recently diagnosed with lymphoma and is now hospitalized getting answers for the best way to treat it. KCSO to host breakfast fundraiser for deputy battling cancer, home repairs Hicks said he was having swelling in his left leg while on a drive home from a vacation on July 2. He has been in and out of a hospital and specialists for 10 days, Hicks told 17 News on Monday. He has been hospitalized most recently last week. Doctors are keeping him stable while they decide what the best treatment for him will be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, the Peace Officers Research Association of California is asking for help to raise money for treatments and other expenses for Hicks and his family. They are looking to raise $80,000 and have raised more than $29,000 so far. You can make a donation through PORAC at this link. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News. Money matters in education, but its no guarantee of student success. Take New York, for example. In its latest Making the Grade report, the Education Law Center adjusted school spending figures relative to their regional labor market costs. It gave New Yorks school funding system an A for the total amount of money it sent to public schools, a B for the distribution of those funds among schools and an A for the amount of money it spent relative to the states overall gross domestic product per capita. Overall, New York came out as one of the top-rated school funding systems, if not the highest-rated. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter And yet, New York students perform slightly below national averages. While its schools spent $33,970 per student, $15,509 more per pupil than the rest of the country, in Fiscal Year 2022 its students trailed overall student performance in fourth-grade math on the National Assessment of Educational Progress the Nations Report Card. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But its not just New York. The relationship between school spending and student outcomes is weaker than you might imagine. To make the fairest comparison possible, I used the Education Law Centers spending figures, which are adjusted for cost-of-living differences, and the demographically adjusted NAEP scores from the Urban Institute. The graph below shows the results for 2022, the latest year for which comparable spending figures are available. As you can see, New York is an extreme outlier: It spent more than any other state, and its results were in the bottom half. Other high-spending states like Vermont, New Jersey and Connecticut also got pretty poor results given their investments. Which states do well on this metric? Texas, Florida and Mississippi all stand out for getting strong student outcomes despite not spending that much. Sources: Adjusted spending figures come from the Education Law Center . Adjusted NAEP math scores come from the Urban Institute . Data are for 2022. What about staffing levels? Education is mostly a people business, and the bulk of school spending goes toward salaries and benefits. But staffing levels are also not well correlated with student outcomes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The graph below shows the number of staffers for every 500 students think of a typical elementary school versus the same demographically adjusted fourth-grade math scores as above. Here, Vermont and Maine stand out as having exceptionally high staffing levels without positive student outcomes to show for them. Meanwhile, Mississippi, Texas and Florida all stand out as states showing strong student test scores without high levels of staffing. Sources: Staffing levels come from the National Center for Education Statistics. NAEP math scores come from the Urban Institute . Data are from 2022. These are merely correlations, and readers should not take these arguments too far. For example, Matt Ladner, a senior adviser for The Heritage Foundation, made the case in a recent report that the states that increased spending the most over the last two decades did not see equivalently large achievement gains. But it would harm students in, say, New York or Vermont, if state policymakers decided that schools needed to cut back on spending or staffing. Related Studies: Pandemic Aid Lifted Scores, But Not Enough to Make Up for Lost Learning Thats because the best research on school finances suggests that a $1,000 increase in annual per-student spending improves test scores by 0.008 standard deviations and boosts college-going rates by 2.8 percentage points. Infusions of federal ESSER funds produced similar, albeit smaller, effects. Perhaps no one was or is satisfied with the magnitude of the returns on increased spending for public schools, and the gains are small enough that you cant just eyeball them on a chart, but they are statistically significant and academically meaningful. Moreover, this research shows that school spending does cause test scores to rise. It would be irresponsible for policymakers to ignore these general trends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, it is fair to note that the gains from higher spending are small, and policy is not made in a vacuum. Some places, especially the Mountain West, probably could see real gains from higher spending. Meanwhile, other places, especially in the Northeast, could benefit from more time thinking about cost effectiveness and how to drive improvements without additional funds. Related There Really Was a Mississippi Miracle in Reading. States Should Learn From It The best modern example of the latter is Mississippi. Mississippi is the poorest state in the country, and it would not have been a positive outlier on these types of charts 10 or 20 years ago. But since 2013, the state has put in place a number of policy changes, including new curricular materials, a muscular school accountability system focused on the students who are the furthest behind and a third grade reading requirement that brought greater attention to children who struggle with the basics. Some of these initiatives even cost money, but they didnt add up to that much relative to the states overall education budget, and they helped students in Mississippi leap over their peers in higher-spending states. Its hard to have these types of nuanced conversations when some advocates continue clamoring for more money, even in well-funded states and communities, while others have used and continue using the modest gains from spending increases as evidence in favor of school choice or other reforms. For policymakers, the only way to correctly understand the nuances of school spending is to recognize that it matters while also understanding its limitations. NEED TO KNOW Investigation Discovery's A Killer Among Friends recounts the true story of Jessie Blodgett's murder at the hands of Daniel Bartelt The 19-year-old theater student was found strangled in her bed in July 2013 Bartelt was arrested for Blodgett's death, and he was sentenced in August 2014 Jessie Blodgett was an actress and musician whose life was cut short by Daniel Bartelt. A recent episode of Investigation Discovery's true crime series A Killer Among Friends recounted the 2013 murder of the 19-year-old Wisconsin theater student by her friend and former boyfriend, Bartelt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident stunned the town of Hartford, Wis., as Blodgett's friends and family tried to solve who killed her and why. "Prior to Jessie Blodgett's murder, we hadn't had a homicide in almost 30 years," Lt. James Zywicki, Hartford police investigator, said on A Killer Among Friends. The authorities were immediately on the case, and following a 16-day investigation, Bartelt was arrested and charged with the murder of his friend. Here's everything to know about Jessie Blodgett's murder, Daniel Bartelt's conviction and where he is now. Who was Jessie Blodgett? Jessie Blodgett Blodgett was a 19-year-old sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where she was studying theater. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 14, 2013, Blodgett came home later from a cast party after a performance of Fiddler on the Roof, where she was playing the Fiddler. According to a police affidavit obtained by ABC News, Blodgett returned at 1 a.m., and her mom discovered her lifeless body in Blodgett's bed around 12 p.m. the next day. Investigators stated that there were signs of strangulation on her neck, but couldn't find a weapon in her room. Shortly after, the police got a search warrant to look through the teenager's phone records and Facebook account, on which she wrote about her play and posted a photo of herself with the rest of the cast. An autopsy later confirmed that Blodgett's cause of death was strangulation, per the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Who is Daniel Bartelt? Mark Hoffman-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Daniel Bartelt Daniel Bartelt Blodgett and Bartelt knew each other for several years, and according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, they had previously dated early on in high school. The former couple stayed friends and spoke regularly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Jessie and Dan sit together at school; he was a straight-A student ... they would write songs together and sing together. He was welcome in our home," Jessie's father, Buck Blodgett, said in A Killer Among Friends. In a twist, after Blodgett was found dead in her bed, Bartelt showed his support to his family. "He was just over, the day after Jessie's murder, sharing hugs and memories and tears with us until his phone rang and he was called in for questioning," Buck explained. While there were unanswered questions about the tragedy, police were piecing together clues and instances related to Bartelt's activity outside of Blodgett's home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Days before her murder, he had attacked a woman in a nearby park on July 12. While the victim was out walking with her dog, Bartelt charged at her with a knife. She was able to wrestle the weapon away from Bartelt, and he drove off in his van. WISN 12 News reported that Bartelt was later questioned on July 16, and he admitted to attacking the woman. He was charged with four felonies and a misdemeanor. How did the police catch Daniel Bartelt? Authorities zeroed in on Bartelt as a suspect in Blodgett's killing when he mentioned an element of the crime that had not yet been made public. While being questioned by the police, Bartelt said someone had "raped and murdered" Jessie, but the rape detail was not known to those outside of the investigation, according to A Killer Among Friends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police were able to obtain video footage of Bartelt walking through Woodlawn Park on the day of Blodgett's murder. They then searched the park's trash cans and found ropes, bloody sanitizing wipes and tape inside a discarded cereal box. Once tested, it was later confirmed that the evidence contained Blodgett and Bartelt's DNA. Per Oxygen.com, investigators also found "disturbing online search history" on Bartelt's computer, "including multiple queries about serial killers." Why did Daniel Bartelt kill Jessie Blodgett? Mark Hoffman-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Jessie Blodgett; Daniel Bartelt Jessie Blodgett; Daniel Bartelt Bartelt did not give an answer for why he killed Blodgett, and maintains his innocence. "I can't give you the reasons you are looking for. There's no hiding from yourself in a tiny, concrete cell," Bartelt told Blodgett's parents, per Milwaukee's Fox 6. "This jumpsuit that I'm wearing, these shackles don't make me guilty. I know there's evidence that I can't refute that would make you believe that I am guilty." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, prosecutors stated during the trial that Bartelt likely targeted Blodgett because it was "convenient," according to Oxygen.com. ABC News reported that Blodgett's friends said Bartelt had tried to get back together with her, but she didn't feel the same way. What was Daniel Bartelt charged with? Bartelt was charged with one count of first-degree intentional homicide for Blodgett's death, per Milwaukee's Fox 6. He also faced a second count of first-degree intentional homicide, one count of first-degree recklessly endangering safety and one count of false imprisonment for the alleged attack against the woman with her dog. Where is Daniel Bartelt now? Mark Hoffman-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Daniel Bartelt Daniel Bartelt Bartelt was found guilty on Oct. 14, 2014, and was given a life sentence without the possibility of parole. He's currently imprisoned in the Wisconsin Waupun Correctional Institution and maintains he is innocent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I find that the gravity of this offense, the premeditation, the brutality, is so overwhelming I think the Blodgetts are entitled to know that even after they're gone, there's no chance the defendant will ever walk the streets again and endanger someone else," judge Todd Martens said at the sentencing, per WISN 12 News. According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Buck also told Bartelt he forgave him. "I not only forgive you, I love you," he said. "I didn't mean it like I like him, like I want to hang out and watch Packer games," Buck later explained. "But like a willful act of what I want to bring to this world, which is the opposite of what he brought in and took out of this world." Blodgett's legacy has lived on in the years since her death. In 2016, her father founded the Love Is Greater Than Hate Project in her honor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Buck said his daughter's "last big cause in life was male violence against women. She was just fiercely outspoken about that for a year or two before her death." Read the original article on People SEOUL, South Korea (AP) The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un dismissed the U.S.'s intent to resume diplomacy on North Koreas denuclearization, as she urged Washington to accept her country as a nuclear weapons state and find a new approach to restart talks. Kim Yo Jong's statement suggested North Korea would only return to talks if the U.S. rewards it for a partial surrender of its nuclear capability. Some experts say U.S. President Donald Trump could still pursue talks with North Korea to make a diplomatic achievement. Trump has recently bragged of his personal ties with Kim Jong Un and expressed hopes of restarting nuclear diplomacy between them. Their high-stakes diplomacy in 2018-19 that occurred during Trump's first term unraveled after Trump rejected Kims calls for extensive sanctions relief in return for dismantling his main nuclear complex, a limited denuclearization step. Kim has since executed weapons tests to modernize and expand his nuclear arsenal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kim's sister calls relations between her brother, Trump not bad In a statement carried by state media, Kim Yo Jong said she doesnt deny the personal relationship between her brother and Trump is not bad. But she said if their personal relations are to serve the purpose of North Koreas denuclearization, North Korea would view it as nothing but a mockery. She said North Korea's nuclear capability has sharply increased since the first round of the Kim-Trump diplomacy and that any attempt to deny North Korea as a nuclear weapons state would be rejected. If the U.S. fails to accept the changed reality and persists in the failed past, the DPRK- U.S. meeting will remain as a hope of the U.S. side, Kim Yo Jong said, referring to her country by its official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said it would be advisable to seek another way of contact." Kim Yo Jong is a key official on the Central Committee of the Norths ruling Workers Party. She handles the countrys relations with South Korea and the United States, and South Korean officials and experts believe she is the Norths second-most powerful person after her brother. North Korea likely wants talks on partial denuclearization Kim Yo Jong said she was responding to reported comments by a U.S. official that Trump is open to talks on denuclearization. She likely was referring to a Saturday article by Yonhap news agency that cited an unidentified White House official as saying Trump remains open to engaging with Leader Kim to achieve a fully denuclearized North Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Korea wants to say it's not interested in talks on denuclearization and the U.S. must determine what benefits it can give to the North first, said Nam Sung-wook, a former head of the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank run by South Koreas spy agency. Nam said Trump's likely desire to win a Nobel Peace Prize would prompt him to seek talks with Kim Jong Un and give him corresponding benefits for taking phased denuclearization steps. Nam said North Korea would want broad sanctions relief, a suspension of U.S.-South Korea military drills that it regards as invasion rehearsals and other economic incentives. Kim Yeol Soo, an analyst at South Koreas Korea Institute for Military Affairs, said U.S. and North Korean officials could meet if they narrow some differences on terms for restoring talks. But he said Trump's unpredictability would make it extremely difficult to predict what concessions the Americans would offer. Prospects for early U.S.-North Korea talks likely depend on the Russia-Ukraine war Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other experts have earlier said that North Korea now preoccupied with its expanding cooperation with Russia sees no urgent need to resume diplomacy with the U.S. and South Korea. On Monday, Kim Yo Jong rebuffed overtures by South Koreas new liberal government, saying its blind trust in the countrys alliance with the U.S. and hostility toward North Korea make it no different from its conservative predecessor. Nam said prospects for an early resumption of U.S.-North Korea diplomacy would depend on whether the Russia-Ukraine war ends soon and U.S. tariff negotiations with other countries are proceeded in a direction that Trump wants. Kim, the analyst, said Trump may use his likely attendance of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea this autumn as a chance to travel on to North Korea or a Korean border village to meet Kim Jong Un. Kim Yo Jong on Monday described as a daydream a reported South Korean idea of inviting her brother to the regional summit. KINSTON, N.C. (WNCT) J&J Tattoo Company in Kinston partnered with Red Shark Digital for a shark week flash sale tattoo event today. They offered $75 flash tattoos, with all proceeds going toward the Plastic Ocean Project, an eastern North Carolina non-profit working to clean up our oceans and protect marine ecosystems. We had a good turnout so far. We opened at one, and we already had ten people in line, so thats really cool. As far as a number goal, I dont think that we have like a specific one in general, but we definitely wanted to donate all of the proceeds to this, Co-Owner, J&J Tattoo Co., Kelsey Jones said. They are $75 apiece, and it is cash only. So our goal is to be able to, at the end of the day, just donate all of it. The shop helped tattoo over a dozen customers and hopes to put this event on again next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) A 12-year-old boy died from a brain-eating amoeba two weeks after a holiday weekend on a popular South Carolina lake. The brain-eating amoeba enters the body when water is forced up the nose, like when someone jumps or dives in the water. It causes an infection that swells the brain and destroys tissue. Fewer than 10 cases are reported each year in the U.S., but almost all are fatal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are some things to know about the amoeba, its latest victim and other dangers on freshwater lakes: What is the brain-eating amoeba? The amoeba's scientific name is Naegleria fowleri and it is most dangerous in water that stays for a while over 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius), including in lakes and rivers in the U.S. and other places with hot, sometimes dry summers like Pakistan and Australia. Infections have been reported in 26 U.S. states as far north as Minnesota. The amoeba enters the brain through the olfactory nerve in the nose. Once inside, it causes an infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Symptoms start as a fairly standard headache and nausea. By the time the pain becomes severe, it is almost always too late to save the infected person. Of the 167 cases reported in the U.S. between 1962 and 2024, only four people have survived, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most of the deaths happened within five days of getting sick, according to the CDC. One infection in a body of water doesnt increase the chances of another infection in the same body of water, the agency said. The amoeba cannot move from one person to another. It was the first death from the amoeba in South Carolina since 2016, the CDC said. What happened? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jaysen Carr went swimming at Lake Murray about 15 miles (24 kilometers) west of Columbia over the July Fourth weekend. He got sick several days later and died on July 18. His father and mother had never heard of the amoeba before a doctor in tears told them what tests of his spinal fluid had found. Clarence Carr said he was shocked to learn South Carolina, like most other U.S. states, has no law requiring public reporting of deaths or infections from the amoeba. The lake wasnt closed and no water testing was performed. My son was a very smart individual. If he had one warning, he would have thought swimming in the lake was a bad idea, Carr said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The amoeba is common but infections are rare The amoeba is fairly common and is most dangerous when the water is warm. There is no science-based threshold for what level of the organism in the water would be safe or unsafe, and it would be difficult to test water regularly, the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services said in a statement. Researchers are trying to figure out why the infections are so rare. Some people have been found to have had antibodies, signaling they may have survived exposure. Others may die from brain swelling and other problems without the amoeba ever being detected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My son lost his life swimming. We assumed it was safe, Carr said. Last year, the CDC started a pilot program of giving infected patients an antibiotic approved for use in Europe that has killed the amoeba in lab studies The amoeba can show up in hot springs, rivers and, on rare occasions, in tap water. Thats why doctors recommend using sterile water for cleaning nasal passages with a neti pot. The only way to be completely safe is to not swim in lakes or rivers and, if you do, keep your head above water. Pinching your nose or using nose clips when diving or swimming can keep water out of your nose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other dangers lurking in lakes and rivers There are other dangers in swimming in lakes and rivers instead of pools, where chemicals can kill off dangerous bacteria and other organisms. A mouthful of water could contain E.coli bacteria. And while the bacteria normally live in the intestines of healthy people and animals, some strains can cause a range of conditions, including urinary tract infection, cystitis, intestinal infection and vomiting, with the worst cases leading to life-threatening blood poisoning, according to the Mayo Clinic. Algae can also cause illnesses. Cyanobacteria also referred to as blue-green algae are plant-like organisms that live in water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The algae can look like foam, scum, mats, or paint on the surface of the water and can grow underneath it. The organisms can quickly grow out of control, or bloom," in warm weather, helped along by excessive nutrients in fertilizers and pet waste carried along by stormwater. Some of the algae produce toxins that can cause symptoms including skin irritation, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, headache, muscle and joint pain, mouth blisters, seizures, and acute liver damage, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In July 2025, a rumor spread online that a young inventor with 1.7 million social media followers had disappeared. Julian Brown, 21, of Georgia has purported to have created a low-cost, solar energy-powered process to convert plastic waste into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel, which he called plastoline. Internet users to suggest this invention, which some people claimed would make fuel "free" while tackling plastic pollution, had turned Brown into the target of corporate interests. For example, a post on X included a video of Brown with a long caption, adding that "the elites" may have "kidnapped" him (archived): BREAKING NEWS: Prolific independent young scientist and inventor Julian Brown, who made his own free energy fuel station from plastic waste is being reported as missing by his followers and supporters. He hasnt been seen in over 2 weeks despite having over 1 million pic.twitter.com/CUyMIjmzRm Dom Lucre | Breaker of Narratives (@dom_lucre) July 28, 2025 The post had 2.6 million views and 28,000 likes as of this writing. Versions of the claim further spread on X and Reddit, where users started a new subreddit, as the site's forums are known, named "Where is Julian Brown." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rumor stemmed from a few of Brown's videos. For example, on June 14, 2025, he posted a video of a helicopter in the night sky he said had repeatedly circled and shined a spotlight on him (archived): Then, on July 9, 2025, he posted a video in which he said he was "certainly under attack" (archived): Brown cited "odd stuff going on." After he posted this, his social media feeds went silent. There were no more updates on his TikTok, Instagram or X accounts. As speculation started to mount, The Daily Mail published an article on July 28, 2025, in which it reported Brown's mother, Nia Brown, said her son had not gone missing: "I can confirm Julian is safe but in the best interest of his security I'm not able to provide any more information," she said. When asked for further details, Nia Brown insisted she could not provide more information about her son. However, in 2017, Wikipedia banned The Daily Mail for being an "unreliable source" in part because of subpar fact-checking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 30 and Aug. 1, Brown appeared with his mother Nia on two Instagram posts. The first was a photograph (archived) of the two of them smiling. The second was a video (archived) in which they confirmed Brown had not gone missing. Instead, they said, he had decided to stop posting on social media on the advice of "his cyber security team" and Meta, the company that owns Facebook and Instagram, after he endured hacking attempts and threats: https://www.instagram.com/p/DM0dz8-A4MF/ Sources: Jackson, Jasper. "Wikipedia Bans Daily Mail as 'Unreliable' Source." The Guardian, The Guardian, 28 Nov. 2017, www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/feb/08/wikipedia-bans-daily-mail-as-unreliable-source-for-website. Accessed 29 July 2025. "Metro Atlanta Inventor Aims to Turn Waste into a Fuel Called 'Plastoline.'" FOX 5 Atlanta, 11 Dec. 2024, https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/metro-atlanta-inventor-aims-turn-waste-fuel-called-plastoline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Poleo, Germania Rodriguez. "Inventor Julian Brown Feared Missing after 'Discovering How to Turn Plastic into Gasoline'... Now His Mom Tells Daily Mail the REAL Story." Mail Online, Daily Mail, 28 July 2025, www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14947699/julian-brown-inventor-missing-plastic-gasoline.html. Accessed 29 July 2025. Updates: Aug. 5, 2025: This report was updated to include a video of Julian Brown and his mother in which they explained why he had not posted on social media for several weeks. NEW YORK (Reuters) -A spokesman for audit and advisory firm KPMG said in a statement the office at 345 Park Avenue will be closed on Tuesday, after a shooting in the building on Monday evening that left four dead, including a Blackstone executive. No KPMG employees were injured in the shooting, according to a post by Chair and CEO Tim Walsh and U.S. Managing Principal Atif Zaim on the company's LinkedIn page. "Our hearts are with the victims of this horrific act and their families, as well as all of our neighbors in 345 Park. This was a terrible, tragic, and frightening event. We are incredibly grateful for the bravery of building security and law enforcement. At this time, we are not aware of any significant physical injuries to our KPMG colleagues, " the statement on LinkedIn said. (Reporting by Tatiana Bautzer; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama ) KPMG told staff that its Park Avenue office will be closed on Tuesday following the Monday evening shooting. Four people were killed after a shooter opened fire in 345 Park Avenue, where KPMG has offices. KPMG sent another internal memo to staff at 7 a.m. on Tuesday. KPMG told staff that its 345 Park Avenue office will remain closed on Tuesday, after a shooting in the midtown Manhattan office building on Monday evening left four people dead. In a memo sent to staff at 11:04 p.m. on Monday, the Big Four consulting firm told staff to plan to work from home or another KPMG office on Tuesday. The memo, which Business Insider has seen, was signed by Yesenia Scheker Izquierdo, the managing partner for KPMG's New York office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more of Business Insider's coverage on the Manhattan shooting. If you were a witness or have a tip to share, contact BI's reporter Natalie Musumeci at NMusumeci@businessinsider.com. KPMG has offices on several floors at 345 Park Avenue. On Monday evening, a gunman identified by police as 27-year-old Shane Tamura was captured on security camera footage entering the building with an M4 rifle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He opened fire in the lobby and proceeded to the 33rd floor, the office of Rudin Management, a real estate company and the owner of the property. Among the four victims were an NYPD officer and an executive at the asset management firm Blackstone. Tamura was found dead at the scene. In the memo sent to staff that evening, KPMG called the shooting "a terrible, tragic, and frightening event." The firm said in the memo the office would remain closed on Tuesday "in support of law enforcement continuing their activities." "Firm and New York leadership are working closely with security, law enforcement, and people relations to make sure we connect with and account for all personnel in our NYC offices," the firm told staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A KPMG spokesperson confirmed to BI that the office was closed on Tuesday and that employees could work from home. In the memo, KPMG advised employees to respond to the "emergency text messages sent to everyone at KPMG in NYC." A KPMG employee told BI that two messages were sent to their corporate phone on Monday evening at around 7 p.m. asking them to confirm whether they were safe or needed assistance. "This is KPMG. Law enforcement is onsite at 345 Park. Please continue sheltering in place until given further instructions by onsite law enforcement," the second of the messages said, according to a screenshot seen by BI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The employee, who works from the 345 Park Avenue office, said they would feel comfortable returning to the site when it reopens. "A very horrific event for sure, however I believe the firm took the right measures ensure employees have felt safe during this time," the person said. KPMG sent a second memo to staff at 7 a.m. on Tuesday. The memo was signed by Tim Walsh, KPMG's chair and CEO, and Atif Zaim, deputy chair and US managing principal. Read the memo: "Update: 345 Park Avenue Tim Walsh and Atif Zaim July 28 was a terrible day at 345 Park Avenue. According to media reporting, multiple people lost their lives. Our hearts go out to the victims of this horrific act and their families. We are not aware of any serious physical injuries to KPMG personnel. We are grateful for the bravery of building security and law enforcement. Our offices at 345 Park Avenue are closed, and we expect them to remain closed as the investigation continues, and we will keep our New York-based colleagues updated on the status of the office. To our team who were in 345 Park Avenue yesterday thank you for your bravery, patience, and compassion in a time of crisis. You are the embodiment of our very special culture at KPMG. In the hours and days ahead, take care of yourselves and please continue to look out for each other. In this moment, we want you to know that we have resources available for anyone who feels the need to talk to someone. We will be providing resources, including counselors, on the ground and virtually to our New York teams and anyone who needs them. Please stay safe and support each other." Read the original article on Business Insider The Kremlin has said it has "taken note" of US President Donald Trumps latest remarks, in which he reduced the timeframe given to Russia to end its war against Ukraine from 50 days to just 10-12, while reiterating that Moscow would continue to pursue its own interests. Source: Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, cited by Russian state news agency Interfax Quote: "We have taken note of President Trumps statements yesterday. The special military operation continues [as they refer to the war against Ukraine ed.], and we remain committed to the peace process for resolving the conflict around Ukraine and ensuring our interests during this resolution." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: When asked to comment on Trumps statement that he is no longer interested in talking to Putin about Ukraine, Peskov replied: "Id prefer to avoid any assessments. Once again, we have taken note of President Trumps statements." He also said that a possible meeting between Putin and Trump is not currently being discussed. Background: President Donald Trump recently announced a new deadline for the Kremlin leader to resolve the war he launched against Ukraine. On 14 July, Trump threatened to impose harsh tariffs of around 100% on Russian goods if a peace deal is not reached within 50 days. Previously, Trump had openly questioned whether Putin truly wants peace, accusing him of talking nonsense. He also confirmed plans to send various types of weapons to Ukraine, including the Patriot air defence system, saying they would be "fully paid for". Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! MOSCOW (Reuters) -The Kremlin said on Tuesday that it had "taken note" of a statement by U.S. President Donald Trump that he was shortening his deadline for Moscow to sign up to a ceasefire in Ukraine or face sanctions. Trump set a new deadline on Monday of 10 or 12 days for Russia to make progress toward ending the war in Ukraine or face consequences, underscoring frustration with President Vladimir Putin over the 3-1/2-year-old conflict. Asked about Trump's statement on Tuesday during a conference call with reporters, the Kremlin kept its remarks short. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have taken note of President Trump's statement yesterday. The special military operation continues," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, employing the term that Moscow uses for its war effort in Ukraine. "We remain committed to a peace process to resolve the conflict around Ukraine and to ensure our interests in the course of this settlement." Trump threatened on July 14 to impose new sanctions on Russia and buyers of its exports within 50 days, a deadline which would have expired in early September. But on Monday, during a visit to Britain, he shortened that deadline and said: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's no reason in waiting... We just don't see any progress being made." Trump, who has held half a dozen calls with the Kremlin leader since returning to the White House in January, also said he was "not so interested in talking any more". Peskov declined to comment on that remark. (Reporting by Dmitry Antonov; Writing by Mark Trevelyan and Anastasia TeterevlevaEditing by Andrew Osborn) The Kremlin has declined to comment on US President Donald Trump's decision to cut a deadline for Moscow to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine from 50 to 10-12 days, with a spokesman on Tuesday merely saying that Moscow was aware of the move. "We have taken note of President Trump's statement yesterday," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying by Russian state news agency TASS. Earlier this month, Trump threatened to hit Russia's trading partners with "severe" tariffs if Moscow did not agree to a ceasefire within 50 days, giving Russian President Vladimir Putin a deadline of September 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But during a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday, Trump said he would reduce the 50 days he gave Putin "to a lesser number," saying this could be "10 or 12 days." Trump justified the move by saying he was disappointed with Putin, who had shown no willingness to compromise. The Kremlin has repeatedly emphasized that it will not be pressured into a deal. Peskov went on to say that the ongoing normalizing of ties between Russia and the US had slowed down. However, Moscow is still interested in maintaining relations and hopes that the process will gain great momentum, he added. HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE), in partnership with the Department for Community-Based Services (DCBS) and a consortium of postsecondary institutions, kicked off the Community Learning Network at a July 29 meeting in Frankfort. CPE says the program provides a more responsive, modern and regionally inclusive workforce training system for Kentuckys human services professionals, including over 5,000 DCBS employees and thousands of foster parents, kinship caregivers and community partners across 120 counties. SBA offers low interest loans to KY private nonprofits Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CPE says it is leading the states transition from a single training vendor at Eastern Kentucky University to a consortium of universities consisting of Brescia University, Morehead State University and Northern Kentucky University. The move will expand access to training and improve local responsiveness and relevance, with centers in Morehead, Louisville, Hazard, Bowling Green and Owensboro. I am grateful to CPE and Dr. Thompson for stepping up to coordinate an enhanced training system for Kentuckys human services workers, said Steven Stack, M.D., Secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Well-trained DCBS professionals mean better outcomes for children and families across the Commonwealth. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). BISHKEK (Reuters) -Kyrgyzstan has banned access to online pornography and imposed state control over internet traffic under new laws signed by President Sadyr Japarov, his office said on Tuesday. Japarov's office said the ban on pornography is to "protect moral and ethical values" in mostly Muslim Kyrgyzstan, a mountainous Central Asian country of 7 million people which gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The legislation requires internet providers to block websites based on decisions by the ministry of culture. Violators will face fines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once Central Asia's most democratic country, Kyrgyzstan has seen increasing pressure on opposition groups and independent media since Japarov, a populist and nationalist, swept to power on a wave of protests in 2020. He has made the protection of what he calls traditional Kyrgyz values a centrepiece of his agenda. Also on Tuesday, Japarov signed a decree imposing a state monopoly on international internet traffic. Under the decree, state-owned telecoms company ElCat will become Kyrgyzstan's sole provider of international internet traffic for a year-long trial period, starting on August 15. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All other Kyrgyz telecom operators will be required to transfer their contracts for international bandwidth to ElCat within two months. Bishkek-based political analyst Emil Juraev told Reuters: This decision only adds to the growing role of the state at the expense of market freedom in Kyrgyzstan. The move comes ahead of a parliamentary election due in 2026, and a presidential poll due in 2027. Japarov, whose allies dominate the legislature, has indicated he will run again. (Reporting by Aigerim Turgunbaeva, writing by Felix Light, editing by Giles Elgood) Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) said the streets of Los Angeles are empty as a result of the Trump administrations immigration enforcement actions in recent months. In a video posted to social media, Padilla said customers are afraid of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, and businesses have suffered in what, he said, is typically a vibrant area. Hi, this is Senator Alex Padilla here in Boyle Heights, just outside of downtown Los Angeles, in one of L.A.s most iconic, historic and vibrant neighborhoods, typically, Padilla said in the video, posted this past weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But, ever since Trumps ICE raids it really began in earnest in early June you see not just a drop in foot traffic, pedestrian activity, here in the community, he continued, but all the business owners here have seen a significant drop in business. A lot of their customers too afraid to come out and shop, too afraid to come out and eat, like at La Chispa de Oro here in Boyle Heights, he added. He included panoramic footage of the area and video of himself visiting the businesses and restaurants. The senator encouraged those frustrated with the presidents immigration policies to support the local businesses as a form of protest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For folks who are wondering what they can do to push back, what they can do to counter this Trump crackdown, you can protest with your wallet. Come support a small business, immigrant-owned business, in these diverse communities as part of our pushback, Padilla said. President Trump has expanded targeted immigration enforcement efforts, especially in Democratic-run cities, like L.A., Chicago and New York. Widespread demonstrations against the federal immigration crackdown erupted in L.A. earlier this summer, prompting the president to call in the National Guard. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Los Angeles wildfires drove insured natural disaster losses in the first half of the year to their highest level since Japan's Fukushima disaster in 2011, German reinsurance giant Munich Re said Tuesday. Insurers took almost $80 billion (69 billion euros) of losses from natural disasters worldwide, Munich Re said, the second-highest hit since 1980. Wildfires around Los Angeles in January caused about $40 billion of the insured losses, said the group, which primarily covers insurers against their own risks -- an all-time record for wildfire damage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two enormous fires killed 31 people and destroyed more than 16,000 homes and buildings around the American city. "Climate change is a fact and is changing life on Earth," Munich Re board member Thomas Blunck said. "People, authorities and companies must all adapt to new circumstances." Only the first half of 2011 saw higher insured losses, after a massive earthquake triggered a tsunami that left 18,500 people dead or missing and caused a devastating meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant in Japan. Overall, there was $131 billion worth of damage worldwide if uninsured losses are included, Munich Re said, down from $155 billion in the first half of last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Almost 90 percent of overall losses were weather-related, Munich Re said, with the figure rising to 98 percent for insured losses. Numerous scientific studies conclude that climate change, caused by pollutants such as carbon dioxide emissions, increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as droughts and wildfires. Western Europe this year experienced its hottest June on record and Turkey on Saturday registered a nationwide temperature record of 50.5C. vbw/sr/rl Goodwill, Easterseals and other nonprofit organizations say thousands of low-income seniors could soon be unemployed because funding hasnt come through for a decades-old federal job training and placement program. The Department of Labor has yet to release more than $300 million in funds for national grantees of the Senior Community Service Employment Program, which was created in 1965 to help low-income, out-of-work adults 55 and older especially veterans, rural residents and people with disabilities return to the workforce. On July 1, the Department of Labor released about $86 million in funds to state recipients, but the national grantees funds were not released (something thats typically done in May), several of the longtime participating nonprofit organizations told CNN. The funding pause of the program that serves about 40,000 seniors was first reported by Bloomberg Law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result, those organizations say theyve had to furlough seniors participating in the program, as well as their own employees. These moves are coming at a time when hiring activity has continued to slow in the broader US labor market. This is an intrinsically American program, when you think about it: people who want to work, who want to be contributing members of society, people who want to be able to support themselves, who want to be a part of a community, Kendra Davenport, president and chief executive officer of Easterseals, which provides services to children and adults with disabilities. But the uncertainty extends beyond the current years funding, as the program itself is feared to be on borrowed time: The proposed 2026 fiscal year budget for the Labor Department proposes eliminating the SCSEP and a slew of other longtime job training programs and replacing them with a block grant to be distributed to states and local communities. Such potential cuts couldnt be coming at a worse time, Davenport said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you look at a macro level at what is impacting these seniors, there are Medicaid cuts, so their health care might go away, she said. There are massive [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program] cuts. Many of these folks are dependent on SNAP for food assistance; thats going away. And now SCSEP is taking away their opportunity to work. She added: Were putting people who really do want to help themselves in a terrible position. A Labor Department spokeswoman said the agency will provide an update soon on the remaining $307 million in 2025 funding for the national grant recipients. The Department has given all SCSEP grantees a one-month period of performance extension, so that if grantees have funding available from their Program Year 2024 grant, they can still use these funds to continue program operations, Christine Feroli, a Labor Department spokeswoman, wrote via email to CNN. The Employment and Training Administration is preparing to award grants shortly after state and territorial grantees submit their required budget documents. The department will support grantees in their operations and services to participants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Organizations such as the National Asian Pacific Center on Aging are sounding the alarm over the funding delays. This funding delay is not just a bureaucratic issue, its a crisis for tens of thousands of older adults who depend on SCSEP to survive, Clayton Fong, president and CEO of the organization that provides employment programs and caregiving services for older adults, said in a statement earlier this month. In an emailed statement to CNN, Fong called on the Labor Department to fully fund the program to support a meaningful pathway to economic stability for low-income seniors. SCSEP is a job training program that restores dignity and a sense of purpose to seniors who want to continue working but are often overlooked in the workforce, Fong said. This funding pause has painful consequences for jobseekers who are trying to build skills and take care of themselves and their families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fongs organization has furloughed more than 800 senior workers. At Goodwill Industries, more than 400 program participants were placed on leave of absence status; and if funds are not released by July 31, additional furloughs could impact more than 1,500 of its older workers, the nonprofit said in an emailed statement to CNN. Goodwill is urging the Department of Labor to quickly provide the allocations needed for this important program to continue and calls upon Congress to continue to invest in SCSEP, providing essential support for older workers, according to the statement. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com LANCASTER, Pa. (WHTM) A popular shopping center in Lancaster County will soon be welcoming a new clothing retailer to its store lineup. The Park City Center shopping mall, situated in Lancaster County at 142 Park City Center, recently teased on Facebook that it will soon be opening a new mens and womens retail store called Urban Planet. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Local Business Beat According to Park City Centers website, the new retailer will soon come to occupy a space at the Round 1 Wing, right next to the plus-sized retailer named Torrid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is currently unknown when the new retailer will debut; however, the date August 1, 2025 is listed on Urban Planets webpage on Park City Centers website. Currently, the Park City Center is encouraging guests to stay tuned to Urban Planets Facebook page for updates on their opening day details. According to Urban Planets website, it is one of the fastest-growing fashion brands in Canada, with more than 100 locations across the country. The companys core demographic is young men and women aged 16 to 24. With a focus on the latest fashion, footwear & accessory trends, our customers can be confident in knowing theyll stay one step ahead of that ever-changing curve, and with our everyday amazing prices, everyone can always afford to look their best, Urban Planet says on its website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brazilian steakhouse opening soon in Lancaster County News of this retail addition comes just weeks after the Park City Center shared that a new Brazilian steakhouse, called The Gauchos Way, would be making its debut at the shopping mall later this year. Once open, the restaurant will occupy 7,500 square feet of space and have enough seating to accommodate up to 200 guests at a time. The Park City Center is owned by Brookfield Properties and features more than 110 stores across approximately 1.3 million square feet of retail space. This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. LANCASTER, Ohio (WCMH) More than 30 dogs were rescued from FIDO Boarding and Doggie Daycare Sunday afternoon, marking the second evacuation in less than 24 hours after ankle-high water filled the facility on Saturday night. This time, however, the water didnt stop rising until people were standing waist-deep in water. FIDO owner Heath Willis described the moments that he said felt like only a couple of minutes as the flood water rose and they tried to get the dogs out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How Ohio State Wexner is working to protect staff, patients There were dogs in water, swimming in circles, in cages, trapped, so we were picking up cages and putting them up on top of cages of bigger dogs, he said. I had five dogs on a leash in this hand. Water was about right here, so they were treading water. I had three dogs over here. There were two swimming around. One was trapped back behind here, which, if it wouldnt have barked, I wouldnt have known. Theyre telling me to let go of the dogs and get out of the building and I was the last one here. And I said, No, Im not leaving these dogs. I had to let go of these dogs, go back, find him because he was trapped. The water had pinned him under there, and he had that cart, and the chair pinned him to the wall. So I got him out and then I saw dogs going under. So I started grabbing them, pulling them up. Wills was forced to get out of the building with more than 20 dogs still trapped in the back, many of them inside kennels and pens. He watched helplessly as the firefighters rescued each and every dog from the facility. I love every one of them and I appreciate them, but when youre watching this unfold and you experience the dogs were drowning, youre feeling like theyre going in slow motion, Willis said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the floodwaters subsided, Wills was able to get back in the building and see just how bad the damage was. We felt the building shifting, we felt it actually making sound, and then we felt it going like this, and then youll see back here, the damage actually lifted the foundation up and slammed down and busted all of it, he said. When that wall gave, I felt like we were in trouble. I thought this whole wall was going to give, and we were all going to get washed into here. Lancaster cleans up after back-to-back flooding Now, with some of the mud and grime washed away by restoration crews, Wills could see the damage to the foundation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It lifted it up and then all the water washed under it, and then it slammed down and busted all of this, and its busted all the way around, Willis said. If you look along the wall, see the foundation at the bottom. Every dog made it out of the facility safely, but one dog is still missing after he got loose from firefighters. He bit one of them, and then a second one tried to help him, and he bit the second one, and thats when he was accidentally dropped and took off, with no fault to them, owner Kathryn Horvath, of Bremen, said. Hes a scared dog. Hes also a big alarm, even when he is not scared. So, yeah, he took that as opportunity out of fear. Horvath had boarded her dog Scooby-Doo, a three-year-old Shar Pei mix, with FIDO while her family took a vacation to Michigan. That trip was cut short to come back and search for Scooby-Doo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unauthorized pool parties causing concern at central Ohio apartment complexes Unfortunately got the call last night that the flooding had happened to a second time at Fido and all dogs have been evacuated, she said. So thats when we woke up this morning and made the drive back to also get out here on foot to find Scooby. The people at FIDO are amazing and they called in thermal imaging drones last night as well. Scooby weighs around 35 pounds, has tan-colored fur, and a distinguishable curled up tail. Weve had about four sightings starting about directly after the flooding incident last night and they started over near Fisher Catholic, and then theyve led here to Stringtown Road and then over to Rainbow and back to Stringtown Road, so hes in about a one-mile radius of this area, Horvath said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The family had been searching on foot all day Monday. Several sightings brought them about a half mile away from the boarding facility, where Scooby was seen twice, darting across a backyard by a homeowner. That homeowner generously allowed the dog warden to set up a live trap in the trees at the back of his property. Another trap is set on the opposite side of Fetter Run, the stream that overflowed and caused the flooding. Both traps contain Scoobys favorite snacks, wet cat food that is supposed to attract him by smell, and one trap has his blanket draped over it. Theyre hoping to lure Scooby in, but he tends to run when approached. If you see Scooby, youre asked to not attempt to capture him and instead call dog warden Leighann Adams at the Fairfield County Adoption Center at 740-687-3647 or FIDO at 740-277-6022. University dining changes leave Ohio Wesleyan students frustrated A fundraising page has been set up on behalf of FIDO to raise money for cleaning and renovations after the flood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, the remainder of concerts scheduled for the Wendel Stage at the Lancaster Festival have been canceled due to damage from the flood and rain. Festival organizers said that while weather-related cancellations are usually not refundable, it is making an exception for the following shows: Gary LeVox (July 26) Broadway Night (July 29) Hairball (July 30) Colbie Caillat / Dawes (Aug 2) Other concerts scheduled for the festival are not cancelled and are set to be held as scheduled. Organizers are asking patrons to forego their refunds to help fund the festival in the coming years. Its important to note that the reason we have a no refund policy is because our ticket revenue does not cover the production cost of these larger concerts, even when cancelled, the festival posted to its website. This means that issuing refunds will significantly impact the Festivals ability to continue to operate in the future. Therefore, we are asking community members who are willing to do so, to consider donating the cost of their tickets by simply not requesting a refund. Any ticket costs not refunded are considered a tax-deductible charitable donation to the Festival. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. Rep. Steve Elkins, DFL-Bloomington, speaks about the Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act at a press conference on July 28, 2025. (Photo by Izzy Wagener/Minnesota Reformer) One of the strongest data protection laws in the country will go in effect on July 31. The Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act creates new protections for the personal data of Minnesotans, which includes anything from a persons name to their search history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the law, Minnesotans will have a right to know what data a business has collected and a list of any third parties that their data has been sold to. Consumers can edit inaccuracies in collected data, ask a business to delete information and opt-out of a business selling or using targeted advertising with the data. Parental permission is required for businesses to sell or use data for advertising to children under 16. We cannot and should not just think that violations and invasions of our privacy are just the way it is in this modern time. We have a right to our privacy, and we have to protect it, Attorney General Keith Ellison said at a press conference. The law is expected to crack down on data brokers that store and sell personal information. Small businesses are exempt. Rep. Steve Elkins, DFL-Bloomington, authored the bill. He said he has been working on data privacy legislation since 2019, his first year in office. The bill received bipartisan support in committee and was signed into law in May 2024. As the 19th state to pass a data protection law, Minnesota took inspiration from many other states versions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law protects against whats called data profiling and automated decision making. Minnesotans can now opt-out of profiling the use of personal data to evaluate or predict someones behavior when it comes to significant issues like housing or employment. The Attorney Generals Office will be hiring attorneys and an investigator to enforce the law. A new website privacymn.com will provide information on the new protections to consumers and businesses. Consumers can file complaints with Ellisons office to aid enforcement. Members of Fight 4 the First Lapeer rally outside the Marguerite deAngeli Library on May 15, 2025 | Photo by Karen Braschayko A Lapeer district library boards snap decision to move its meeting schedule is being viewed as an attempt to evade the public after it faced criticism from activists who say the board is planning to censor content in its collection and mostly books containing LGBTQ+ content and themes. Members of the Lapeer District Library Board agreed to move their regular meeting time at its most recent meeting, from 5:30 p.m. to 10 a.m. on the third Thursday of each month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move has been viewed by some as a way to prevent community members from fighting against a rash of book challenges that began in 2023 and following the election of several members with conservative ideologies, who have come to hold a majority of seats on the nonpartisan board. Some of those members have ties to the book challenges in question. The board first proposed the idea of changing its meeting location and time during its June meeting, with board member Carol Brown noting she is frequently late to a meeting she has scheduled after the library board meetings. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Vice Chair John DeAngelis raised issues with the boards current meeting place, the Lapeer Center Building, saying the building had heating issues in the wintertime and leaked when it rained. He offered the American Legion Hall in Lapeer as an alternative, but noted that their current meeting time slot was unavailable due to a standing meeting at the hall every Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the boards treasurer Perry Valle raising concerns about transparency and board chair Kari Kohlman proposing the board look into alternative locations, the matter was tabled. However, at the boards July meeting, no alternative locations were discussed, with DeAngelis bringing a motion to move the board meeting to 10 a.m. at the American Legion. Despite protest from Valle and board member Bonnie Lawrence, DeAngelis motion and the promise of no leaks, air conditioning and heat in the winter prevailed. I think that if you change the meetings to 10 oclock in the morning, youre stabbing the general public in the back, Valle said, I think thats what your purpose is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Karen Braschayko, a member of Fight For the First Lapeer, which advocates against censorship within the library district, said the boards argument about facilities issues was a thinly veiled attempt to reduce the crowd size at meetings. Its just my personal belief that they are trying to keep people like me from going, Braschayko said. I wont be able to go unless I take a morning off of work or a day off of work, really. While Secretary Peggy Brotzke noted theres nothing to say the board cannot change the meeting time if they see a drop in public participation, Braschayko said theres no reason to take the board at its word. She also said that Fight For the First Lapeer would continue to have a presence at the 10 a.m. meetings. We will find all of our retired friends or people with flexible schedules to show up at those meetings and speak, but it excludes people like me, Braschayko said, noting that 84% of workers in the U.S. work a regular daytime schedule. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community activists have been on high alert, pointing to a memo from the boards former attorney, Anne Seurynck, examining potential strategies to keep minors from accessing certain books, including placing books in an adults section, or putting certain books behind glass or a circulation desk. Though Seurynck advised against adopting any of the proposals warning they would place the library on at best, shaky Constitutional ground some members of the board have continued to look for ways to keep children from accessing books without running afoul of the law. During a March meeting of the Lapeer Tea Party, attendees asked the boards DeAngelis and Brotzke about efforts to limit childrens access to some books. While unable to offer specifics on potential restrictions, DeAngelis said the board would be working with its attorney. When asked for a timeline for potential options, he offered six months, emphasizing that the board was not looking to get sued. In an interview with Michigan Advance on Wednesday, DeAngelis said the decision was ultimately based on the availability of board members and their attorney, the time conflict with the Young Marines at the American Legion and the issues with the facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Lori Sawatzke, the building manager for the Lapeer Center Building, told the Michigan Advance she was never informed of any issues with the building. Kara [Haight], the [librarys] assistant director, she would come over every Thursday, the day of their meetings, and get the key from me, Sawatzke said. She never once said, Hey, its cold in that room, or Its hot in that room. Nothing. When asked if he had any concerns about the change in meeting time affecting transparency or attendance, DeAngelis said no. On members push to protect children from books members feel are inappropriate, DeAngelis said the board would follow the law where it takes them, emphasizing that they do not want to be sued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were not going to do anything like that unless its absolutely legal, above board, DeAngelis said. DeAngelis also expressed concerns that disputes with members of Fight For the First could lead to the board losing its millage. Government transparency is important, especially when dealing with controversial matters, said Jay Kaplan, a longtime attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigans LGBTQ+ project. While Kaplan said the decision to change a meeting from the evening to the morning wouldnt violate the Open Meetings Act, which governs public access to meetings, transparency and the ability for the public to respond to the boards actions remains vital. The idea and the purpose of what some of these library board members are trying to do is to censor materials that they dont like. That raises serious Constitutional concerns, Kaplan said. I would ask them if, indeed, they feel what theyre doing is above board. If theres an effort to try to limit public input or public knowledge about whats going on, what are they hiding from? Anderson, Tx (FOX 44) A man assessed a life sentence in the 2021 deadly Moore Cabinet shooting in Bryan now has an additional life sentence for shooting a DPS trooper. Larry Winston Bollin entered into a plea bargain agreement with Grimes County District Attorney Andria Bender, saving the county a trial in the case and bringing the additional life sentence. Bollin was charged in Grimes County for the shooting of Department of Public Safety Trooper Juan Tovar after he fled the site of the shooting in Bryan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trooper Tovar was traveling southbound on FM 39 in Grimes County when he located suspect Bollin and his vehicle at Bollins residence in Iola. Before Trooper Tovar even initiated contact, Bollin opened fire on the trooper with a rifle. One of the rifle rounds went through the windshield of the troopers patrol car and struck Trooper Tovar in the left eye. Bollin then fled the site of a shooting for the second time that day. Bollin was located near Bedias a short time later by DPS Troopers Matt Groman and Kurt Kelm and was taken into custody without further confrontation. Trooper Tovar survived the attack but lost his left eye. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In June 2023, Larry Winston Bollin was indicted by a Grimes County Grand Jury for attempted capital murder of a police office, a first degree felony. While in jail, Bollin was initially found incompetent to stand trial and was sent to a state hospital for treatment. In February 2025, Bollins competency was ruled as having been restored and he was declared ready to stand trial. On July 21, 2025, he was convicted in Brazos Conty for the murder of Tim Smith who was shot during a rampage at Kent Moore Cabinet in Bryan. The same jury later sentenced him to life in prison for that offense. As part of the plea deal in Grimes County, Bollin is required to plea guilty in any remaining Brazos County cases connected with the shooting and wounding of others at the Kent Moore shop. In addition, he would waive any appeal in any of the cases in both Grimes and Brazos Counties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The events leading to the charges, conviction, plea and sentences took place on April 8, 2021 at the Kent Moore Cabinet facility at 350 Stone City Drive in Bryan where a normal work day drastically changed about 2:30 that afternoon when shots rang out, resulting in the death of Timothy Smith and the injury of others. As of Tuesday, Bollin remained in custody awaiting transfer to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Grime County District Attorney Andria Bender offered the following statement following the plea and sentence: Justice has been obtained for all the victims in both Brazos County and Grimes County. This plea agreement will help give closure to all the victims because they will avoid a lengthy appeal process in both counties for the convictions to become final. My compliments to the various law enforcement agencies working together to investigate and gather evidence for the prosecution of Larry Bollins crimes. Our team also appreciates the strong working relationship with the Brazos County District Attorneys Office working together to seek justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. The Palestinian death toll in Gaza passed 60,000 on Tuesday. The world's leading authority on food crises said the worst-case scenario of famine is currently playing out in the territory of over 2 million people as starvation deaths rise. And the United Nations said far too little food and other aid was entering the enclave, while most of Tuesday's dead were gunned down seeking aid. Pressure grew on Israel's closest ally, the United States, to act as Americans' support for Israeli military action declines sharply. And the British prime minister says the U.K. will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire. Here's the latest: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Malta to recognize a Palestinian state, leader says Malta plans to recognize a Palestinian state in September, Prime Minister Robert Abela said in a social media post. Maltas decision was formally communicated to the United Nations during the U.N. conference under way in New York, Abela added. Our countrys position reflects our commitment to finding a solution in favor of lasting peace in the Middle East, wrote Abela, who had previously said he intended to be the Maltese leader to recognize a Palestinian state. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni has said Italy backs an eventual Palestinian state but that the time wasnt right to recognize it. Meloni has backed Israels right to defend itself while providing humanitarian aid to Gaza and airlifting out wounded Palestinians for treatment in Italy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Holy See, for its part, recognized the Palestinian state officially in 2015 and has said such recognition was the best solution to ending the conflict. Trump says he thinks Europe will help with Gaza aid President Donald Trump says he thinks the European Union will put up more money to aid hungry Palestinians in Gaza. We want to take it one thing at a time. They need food, and they need people to be able to get them the food, he told reporters. The EU has been the worlds biggest supplier of aid to the Palestinians, when the aid is allowed to go through. Trump also talked about setting up food centers under Israeli control, saying that we think they can do a good job with it. They want to preside over the food centers to make sure the distribution is proper. It was not clear how that would differ from the Israeli-backed American contractor that opened aid distribution centers in Gaza in May. Chaos has surrounded that system meant as an alternative to the U.N.-backed one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said he last spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu two days ago. UN conference supports two-state solution A U.N. high-level conference has given unwavering support to a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict and calls on Israel to commit to a Palestinian state. The non-binding declaration adopted at a conference at the U.N. General Assembly sets out a concrete time-bound action plan. Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes a two-state solution, and his government and close ally the United States boycotted the conference. The declarations plan envisions the Palestinian Authority governing and controlling all Palestinian territory, with a transitional administrative committee established under its umbrella after a ceasefire in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plan also supports deployment of a temporary international stabilization mission operating under U.N. auspices to support the transfer of security to the Palestinian Authority. UK foreign secretary defends conditions on Palestinian statehood British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has defended the U.K.s decision on recognition of Palestinian statehood in September if Israel does not agree to a ceasefire and long-term peace process. Lammy told reporters at the United Nations that what we have attempted to do is affect the situation on the ground, and I sincerely hope that we see a dramatic improvement to the suffering that we see and a commitment to a ceasefire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.K. announcement came a day after President Donald Trump met with the British prime minister. Lammy was asked if Trump was given a heads-up. While the U.S. and U.K. have the most special relationship, Lammy responded, we have always been clear that no country has veto on solemn decisions that we make in the United Kingdom. Applause at UN conference for British statement Britains foreign secretary has been applauded at a U.N. conference after announcing that the U.K. will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza and takes steps to long-term peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement David Lammy spoke at a ministerial meeting on the two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. He was immediately interrupted with loud and sustained applause in the U.N. General Assembly hall. Lammy also said the rejection by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government of a two-state solution is wrong morally and its wrong strategically, stressing that it harms the Israeli people by closing off the only path to peace. France welcomes British announcement on Palestinian state France has welcomed British Prime Minister Keir Starmers announcement that the U.K will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza and takes steps to long-term peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, French President Emmanuel Macron made a surprise diplomatic gamble by announcing that France will recognize Palestine in September. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot posted on social media that Together, through this momentous decision and our joint efforts, we are ending the infinite cycle of violence and re-opening the prospect of peace in the region. Palestinians chase airdrops into the sea Scores of Palestinians in the Gaza town of Zawaida swam into the sea to retrieve what they could from airdrops of aid. Kamel Qoraan returned to shore with a soaked bag of tea powder, saying that airdropping aid is humiliating and calling for the opening of border crossings for trucks. The United Nations and partners say trucks deliver far more aid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Associated Press reporters in Gaza said much of the airdropped aid has fallen in so-called red zones that Israel has ordered people to evacuate from. Some people seemed relieved to get anything. One boy smiled as he clutched a small sack of flour. One man had a can of beans. Momen Abu Etayya said his son urged him to chase the airdrops, and dashed into the sea. I was only able to bring him three biscuits, he said. U.K. to recognize Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to ceasefire British Prime Minister Keir Starmer says the U.K. will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza and takes steps toward long-term peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer told ministers at a rare summertime Cabinet meeting that Britain will recognize a state of Palestine before the United Nations General Assembly, unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, reaches a ceasefire, makes clear there will be no annexation in the West Bank and commits to a long-term peace process that delivers a two state solution. EU humanitarian team not allowed into Gaza, official says A team from the European Unions humanitarian aid agency was not authorized by Israel to join a convoy heading into Gaza, according to a senior European Commission official. The official was not authorized to be publicly named according to EU policy. The EU didnt receive any convincing explanation from Israels military or foreign service, the official said. There was no immediate Israeli comment. The EU has sought to monitor delivery of food and fuel in Gaza under a new aid agreement with Israel. It says at least 160 trucks should enter Gaza daily along with 200,000 liters of fuel, and more border crossings should open. But the EU does not have adequate evidence Israel has fulfilled its end of the bargain, the official said. Sam McNeil in Brussels WFP says half of what it wants to get into Gaza is reaching The U.N. World Food Program says only about half of the aid it has requested to enter Gaza is reaching the territory after Israel eased restrictions on entry over the weekend. WFP wants 100 trucks per day entering the territory of over 2 million people as deaths from starvation increase. Ross Smith, the U.N. agencys director of emergencies, says they lack follow-through on the ground such as faster clearance and approval for aid trucks. He says that we need sustained effort at scale for weeks at a time. Draft says ministers to make 'unwavering commitment to two-state solution A draft document for a U.N. conference says foreign ministers will make an unwavering commitment to a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. The document obtained by The Associated Press would stress the importance of unifying the Gaza Strip with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority. It also will invite all countries that have not recognized the state of Palestine to do so, and urge countries who have not done so yet to establish normal relations with Israel." The draft was circulated for comment by conference co-chair France ahead of the conferences final day on Tuesday. Edith M. Lederer Top UN official says famine alert in Gaza is undeniable United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres says the new alert on Gaza from the world's leading international authority on food crises confirms what we have feared: Gaza is on the brink of famine. The facts are in and they are undeniable, Guterres said in a statement. Palestinians in Gaza are enduring a humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions. This is not a warning. It is a reality unfolding before our eyes. He again called for the free and unimpeded flow of food, water, medicine and fuel into the strip, saying that the trickle of aid must become an ocean. Germany joins airdrop effort in Gaza German Chancellor Friedrich Merz says two of his countrys military aircraft are on their way to Jordan to join the airdrops of aid to Gaza. Merz said after meeting Jordans King Abdullah II on Tuesday that the two Airbus A400M planes can join airdrops by the weekend, possibly as early as Wednesday. Abdullah acknowledged that airdrops are a drop in the ocean, though it does send a signal and pressure on Israel that we are trying the best that we can. He insisted that truck traffic needs to be started as quickly as possible." France to join airdrops for Gaza A French diplomatic official says France will carry out airdrops of humanitarian aid to Gaza in the coming days. The official spoke on condition of anonymity in line with government policy. The official stressed that the airdrops are not intended to replace larger-scale relief efforts. France is also working to establish overland deliveries, which it described as by far the most effective solution for delivering massive, unimpeded humanitarian relief. Thomas Adamson in Paris Fox News host Laura Ingraham recently criticized Rep. Jasmine Crockett (Texas) with a common MAGA-esque line of attack thats often used against women and people of color. On Friday, Ingraham reposted a video interview that featured Crockett on X, formerly Twitter. The representative had delivered remarks at a press briefing addressing the GOPs redistricting efforts that same day. Another reminder that having a law degree doesnt mean youre smart, Ingraham wrote about Crockett on X. The Fox News host has leveled disparaging remarks about Crockett before. In April, Ingraham and Fox News contributor Raymond Arroyo both criticized the Texas Democrat, whos Black, by spewing racial tropes and stereotypes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a segment of The Ingraham Angle, Arroyo called Crockett the Madea of Capitol Hill, while Ingraham scrutinized the way the congresswoman speaks. She charged that Crockett speaks in a very different way than how she did in the past. And now shes going very ... street, Ingraham said at the time, as she swayed her head side-to-side. Tabitha Bonilla, an associate professor of political science and human development and social policy at Northwestern University, previously told HuffPost in response to that segment of The Ingraham Angle, that the labels Arroyo and Ingraham used for Crockett felt overtly racist. Dog whistles tend to be subtle you only understand them if you know what to listen for, she said, emphasizing that their remarks werent subtle references. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump has a long history of questioning the intelligence of women and people of color. Among the criticisms hes received for disparaging people of color over their intelligence and for using phrases like low IQ is the demeaning language hes used toward Black female journalists. He infamously told CNNs Abby Phillip during his first term as president that she asked stupid questions. And as it relates to Ingrahams recent attack on Crockett, Kari J. Winter, a professor of American studies at the University at Buffalo whose expertise includes gender, feminism, race and class, said that the Fox News host carries water for a president who does not know the difference between an IQ test and a basic cognitive screening for dementia. The way that both of them constantly disparage the intelligence of exceptionally bright, genuinely accomplished people like Jasmine Crockett reveals, I think, a deep insecurity about their own mental capacity, she said. Trump in particular demonstrates the wisdom of the adage my grandma told me as a child: When you point a finger, three fingers are pointing back at you. Trump and his MAGA base are growing a culture of cruelty, Winter said. And its concerning. Im confident that Crockett easily shrugs off Ingrahams insults, considering the source, Winter said. What is more concerning is the way that Ingraham, Trump and their ilk are aggressively growing a culture of cruelty, conjuring up the ugliest roots of American history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like a toxic red tide, Trump and right-wing media are deliberately propagating forms of hate and sadism that have deep roots in racism, xenophobia and misogyny, she continued. Winter emphasized that history is proof that a political leader can feed an appetite for cruelty, and that it can grow and spread to the point where no one is safe. An addiction to hate is arguably the most contagious and deadly of all human diseases. No one is safe when a society celebrates violence, she said. Crockett is often the target of right-wing, racist and anti-Black attacks online. Shes often ridiculed for the way she speaks and her use of African American Vernacular English (AAVE). Last month, comments she made about first lady Melania Trumpsimmigration history during a hearing on Capitol Hill spurred racist attacks on social media, with some X users calling her ghetto trash, among other derogatory statements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ingrahams recent tweet about Crocketts intelligence spurred similar disturbing responses. Winter said that Ingraham and other rage machines are masters of clickbait. They are determined to mesmerize their audience with nonstop spectacles of insults, cruelties and jeers, she said. Related... Colombia's government backed down from a proposed hunting quota for a popular species amid swift and fierce backlash. As Colombia One reported, the possibility of opening up capybaras (known locally as chiguiros) to commercial hunting was floated in June. However, the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development later clarified that it was not moving forward with legislation to allow capybara hunting. Andrea Padilla, a senator who led the charge against the measure, including a petition that gained over 14,000 signatures, said: "We were the first to warn about the risk enabling the commercial hunting of chiguiros. Likewise, today we applaud the decision not to proceed." Photo Credit: iStock Described by PBS as being like a "barrel with legs," the capybara holds appeal that beyond its unquestionably charming appearance. They are the world's largest rodents, with some tipping the scales at up to 174 pounds. The capybara is a not-so-little ecosystem engineer; its foraging habits open up the wetlands it inhabits for other creatures. They maintain the health of vital wetlands by keeping vegetation under control, and they're also an important food source for larger predators such as jaguars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This gentle giant also forms symbiotic relationships with birds, allowing them to feed on parasites and ticks. According to research, the capybaras facilitate this mutually beneficial arrangement by lying on the ground and exposing areas for birds to clean. Capybaras are relatively plentiful in South and Central America, but they are under threat in Colombia. While the ban on commercial hunting is an important measure to protect, illegal hunting remains a common practice that officials need to clamp down on. The story highlights the significance of community-based efforts in protecting wildlife. As daunting as taking on big-money commercial interests may seem, landmark environmental legislation often emerges through sufficient public pressure. It's also a reminder of the importance of supporting political candidates who prioritize ecological issues. Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. QTS Data Centers Hillsboro 3 Data Center in Hillsboro, Oregon in October 2024. Montana is courting data center companies, which could have huge impacts on the state's grid. (Photo Oregon Capital Chronicle) As Montana courts data centers and leaders mull ways to encourage artificial intelligence developments, lawmakers are looking into the states power generation capacity as part of the Energy and Technology Interim Committee. The committee met Monday to determine priorities and also heard concerns and comments about data centers and power load. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Power, especially energy used to help run new technology, was a major discussion point during the session, especially in relation to strain on the electrical grid and impacts to consumers. Sen. Daniel Zolnikov, a Billings Republican and committee chairman, called the issues tied together. And some on Monday said the legislature is running out of time to put guardrails in place before its too late to make large, structural changes in how the state will approach the issue. I think this is our last chance as a legislative body, ahead of 2027, to kind of address this before its completely out of the barn, Derek Goldman, representing the Northwest Energy Coalition, told the committee. In other states that have seen large data center loads increase, customers have seen significant impacts in rates. And I really strongly encourage this committee to use its jurisdiction under statute or under one of the existing study bills it has for it to really dig in on the data center issue. NorthWestern Energy, the states largest energy provider, has been under the microscope in recent years over the rates it charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since last fall, several new data centers have been planned statewide that are expected to require around 1,000 Megawatts of energy. This includes a 600 MW facility near Great Falls announced in June. Adding this amount of electric demand in Montana will require massive changes to our energy supply and transmission system, a letter from the Northwest Energy Coalition to the interim committee states. We must consider all the implications for regulated utilities, customer-owned utilities, large commercial, industrial and residential electric customers in Montana. Federal changes around artificial intelligence were also discussed by some in attendance for public comment, including Jesse Luther, who said she was representing some data center companies. The legislature did work on AI this session, but federal changes could mean state changes too, and the technology is evolving rapidly. Consistent with the federal governments implementation of the Build AI America plan, we would encourage Montana to explore regulatory reforms that embrace energy production, Luther told the committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The interim committee has three different studies assigned during the session one on energy transmission (Senate Joint Resolution 12), another into interstate power grid development (Senate Joint Resolution 21), and a study of artificial intelligence (House Joint Resolution 4). Work on those studies has to be completed by September 2026. SJ 21 directs the committee to determine what it would take, and if there are opportunities to better connect Montanas energy grid to neighboring states. It looks to clarify the legal and economic issues surrounding any interstate compacts. The committee may combine efforts for that study, to some degree, with SJ 12, which touches on many of the same issues. SJ 12 is looking at Montanas current electrical outlook and looks at more specific upgrades and congestion, as well as stress on transmission infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The interim committee also heard updates from the Public Service Commission, a regulatory agency active in major changes regarding energy in the state. PSC President Brad Molnar and NorthWestern Lobbyist Alan Olson traded barbs over several topics. Most of those comments dealt with HB 490, a bill passed this session dealing with wildfire mitigation plans for power utilities. Members of the committee also started the process of determining topics for bills going into the next session. The committee is also looking to resurrect several vetoed bills, including one regarding genomics and another dealing with shared solar cooperation. Cryptocurrency, electronic device privacy, transmission lines and railroad easements were also discussed as potential bill topics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The committee mixes a number of legislators who have been active in energy and tech policy. It will be led by Sen. Zolnikov, R-Billings, who has spearheaded and crafted significant parts of the states tech laws for years. Rep. Becky Edwards, a Bozeman Democrat, will serve as vice chairperson. Other members include Sen. Chris Pope, a Bozeman Democrat, who is active on energy policy, as well as Rep. Katie Zolnikov, a Republican from Billings who served as Speaker Pro Tem during the session and saw a variety of policy see passage. Sen. Gayle Lammers, a Hardin Republican who carried blockchain legislation, and Rep. Bob Carter, a Missoula Democrat who served on the Houses tech and energy committee last session, are both on the committee, which is eight legislators in total. During a brief comment on Monday morning, Sen. Zolnikov said he feels the state has a lot of, good, well written tech policy, but some bills especially some that did not originate in the energy and tech committee are not always well written. Montana legislators did pass a wide range of tech and privacy legislation during the 2025 Legislature. Itd be nice, as we start to mature a tech committee, where we try to funnel some of these things in, especially since energy and technology are now the same exact thing. Were hearing about the massive new technology of AI, well, that uses a lot of energy, and its becoming very tied together, Zolnikov said. So there were some bills last session, again, some good policies, some good ideas, not always well written, that if they would have gone to our committee, there could have been the work put into them. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) So far this year, 46 teens have been arrested for possession of a firearm. With the growing trend of youth committing crimes, juvenile courtrooms are seeing more and more cases, and local lawmakers are searching for a solution. Stealing cars and either getting locked up or dying, yeah, thats the extent of whats going to happen to them, said Rep. Phil Plummer, Ohio House 39th District. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ice cream shop hosts fundraiser to honor Hershall Creachbaum According to law makers and Montgomery County judges, teems in the Miami Valley are getting into more trouble than ever. Back in 2018, the courts saw around 150 referrals a year for juveniles with guns, but now, those numbers are up. In 2024, it was more like 313. So you can see through the years, we have seen an increase, said Judge Helen Wallace, Montgomery Co. Juvenile Courts. Wallace says its unfortunate to see the growth in gun violence among youth. When teens are caught with guns, its an automatic felony and mandatory jail time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are lots of things that cause a child to feel so desperate as to take a gun and rob somebody, and now theyre looking at an aggravated robbery charge with a firearm specification, which is mandatory time in juvenile prison, said Wallace. The court does have programs with local gun violence prevention leaders and other methods to keep juveniles out of the courts. State Representative Phil Plummer says he is also working on community engagement to redirect the youth, while also enacting stricter punishments for juveniles. Kids are killing kids. What we have going on here, you know, the gun violence is off the chart, said Plummer. Offenses are really lacking right now; Im digging into that. Thats my next target, is juvenile crime. You know, we need more consequences. Like, when we grew up, if we did something wrong, we were held accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dayton Peace Campaign reignited by new funding Dayton police reports there were over 54 arrests made for Juveniles in possession of fire arms by July in 2024. That number is down for 2025, at 46 so far this year, but it is trending upwards compared to the last five years. There have also been dozens of cases of aggravated robberies, where teens were caught with guns. There are other ways to resolve conflicts, you know, and we need to work on those other ways. Otherwise theyre going to end up dead, theyll be here in juvenile court, said Wallace. There are services to get juvenile court records expunged, as long as they are not murder, rape or aggravated murder. The court encourages everyone else to apply. Click here to learn more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. The transgender flag. Getty Images. Parents trying to overturn a Washington law protecting runaway transgender youth have hit another roadblock in federal court. A three-judge appeals court panel on Friday unanimously dismissed a constitutional challenge to the controversial 2023 statute, which allows operators of emergency shelters to notify state authorities, rather than parents, when children seek refuge as they pursue gender-affirming care and support services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco upheld a lower court ruling that concluded those challenging the law lacked legal standing to sue because they could not prove they suffered actual or imminent harm from the statute. The plaintiffs who brought the case included several parents whose teenage children exhibited signs of gender dysphoria, but were not runaways, and two nonprofits that oppose gender-affirming care for children. In a statement, Washington Attorney General Nick Browns office said, We are pleased that the court saw through this politicized attempt to create a case where none existed. America First Legal Foundation, counsel for the plaintiffs, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The conservative legal organization was founded by Stephen Miller, deputy chief of staff for President Donald Trump. State law calls for parents to be notified within 72 hours of their childs arrival at an emergency shelter unless there are compelling reasons not to do so. If there are signs of abuse or neglect, for example, shelter staff are to inform the state Department of Children, Youth and Families, which would take the lead on reaching out to parents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court fight is over Senate Bill 5599, which expanded the list of compelling reasons to cover situations when a young person feels they could be subject to abuse or neglect because they are pursuing gender-affirming care or reproductive health services. The laws passage incensed conservatives, who said it was an attack on parental rights. America First Legal Foundation sued in August 2023, days after opponents of the law failed to gather enough signatures to get a referendum on the ballot. The lawsuit argued the statute deprives certain parentsbut not all parentsof their fundamental right under the U.S. Constitution to direct the care and upbringing of their children, as well as their rights to the free exercise of religion, due process, free speech, and equal protection. Miller, in a statement issued at the time the suit was filed, said his group was leading the courtroom charge against radical transgenderism and the sexual exploitation of our children by militant gender activists. He added: No state action more frighteningly illustrates the threat to our children than this law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement International Partners for Ethical Care, Inc. and Advocates Protecting Children joined the parents as plaintiffs. After the state responded that the plaintiffs lacked standing, America First Legal amended its complaint to broaden the original challenge. That didnt work. In May 2024, U.S. District Court Judge Robert Bryan dismissed the suit, citing the plaintiffs lack of standing. The 9th Circuit Court panel of judges agreed. Judge Milan D. Smith, Jr., a 2006 appointee of President George W. Bush, authored Fridays appellate decision. Circuit Judges Sidney R. Thomas and Daniel A. Bress joined in the opinion. WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Jeffrey Epstein stole young women who worked for the spa at Mar-a-Lago, the latest evolution in his description of how their highly scrutinized relationship ended years ago. One of the women, he acknowledged, was Virginia Giuffre, who was among Epsteins most well-known sex trafficking accusers. Donald Trump's comments expanded on remarks he had made a day earlier, when he said he had banned Epstein from his private club in Florida two decades ago because his one-time friend stole people that worked for me. At the time, he did not make clear who those workers were. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Republican president has faced an outcry over his administration's refusal to release more records about Epstein after promises of transparency, a rare example of strain within Trump's tightly controlled political coalition. Trump has attempted to tamp down questions about the case, expressing annoyance that people are still talking about it six years after Epstein died by suicide while awaiting trial, even though some of his own allies have promoted conspiracy theories about it. Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins imprisoned former girlfriend, was recently interviewed inside a Florida courthouse by the Justice Departments No. 2 official, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, though officials have not publicly disclosed what she said. Her lawyers said Tuesday that shes willing to answer more questions from Congress if she is granted immunity from future prosecution for her testimony and if lawmakers agree to satisfy other conditions. Aboard Air Force One while returning from Scotland, Trump said he was upset that Epstein was taking people who worked for me. The women, he said, were taken out of the spa, hired by him in other words, gone. I said, listen, we dont want you taking our people, Trump said. When it happened again, Trump said he banned Epstein from Mar-a-Lago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked if Giuffre was one of the employees poached by Epstein, he demurred but then said he stole her. The White House originally said Trump banned Epstein from Mar-a-Lago because he was acting like a creep. Giuffre died by suicide earlier this year. She claimed that Maxwell spotted her working as a spa attendant at Mar-a-Lago in 2000, when she was a teenager, and hired her as Epsteins masseuse, which led to sexual abuse. Although Giuffres allegations did not become part of criminal prosecutions against Epstein, she is central to conspiracy theories about the case. She accused Epstein of pressuring her into having sex with powerful men. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maxwell, who has denied Giuffres allegations, is serving a 20-year-prison sentence in a Florida federal prison for conspiring with Epstein to sexually abuse underage girls. A spokeswoman for the House Oversight Committee, which requested the interview with Maxwell, said the panel would not consider granting the immunity she requested. The potential interview is part of a frenzied, renewed interest in the Epstein saga following the Justice Department's statement earlier this month that it would not be releasing any additional records from the investigation, an abrupt announcement that stunned online sleuths, conspiracy theorists and elements of Trump's political base who had been hoping to find proof of a government coverup. Since then, the Trump administration has sought to present itself as promoting transparency, with the department urging courts to unseal grand jury transcripts from the sex-trafficking investigations. A judge in Florida last week rejected the request, though similar requests are pending in New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter Tuesday, Maxwell's attorneys said that though their initial instinct was for Maxwell to invoke her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, they are open to having her cooperate provided that lawmakers satisfy their request for immunity and other conditions. But the Oversight Committee seemed to reject that offer outright. The Oversight Committee will respond to Ms. Maxwells attorney soon, but it will not consider granting congressional immunity for her testimony," a spokesperson said. Separately, Maxwell's attorneys have urged the Supreme Court to review her conviction, saying she did not receive a fair trial. They also say that one way she would testify openly and honestly, in public, is in the event of a pardon by Trump, who has told reporters that such a move is within his rights but that he has not been not asked to do it. She welcomes the opportunity to share the truth and to dispel the many misconceptions and misstatements that have plagued this case from the beginning, the lawyers said. JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) Johnson City officials have said in writing they want to discuss better communication when the Washington County Sheriffs Office (WCSO) conducts operations inside the city but Sheriff Keith Sexton says no such overtures have made it to him. Its part of an apparent tension point between WCSO and the Johnson City Police Department (JCPD), with JCPD calling for use of a process called deconfliction to make those operations safer and more effective. The tension made it into official documents on March 26. The law enforcement-related letter from the City of Johnson Citys attorney to his Washington County counterpart didnt beat around the bush: WCSO appears resolved to continue to operate within the jurisdictional boundaries of Johnson City without prior notice and without deconflicting with the JCPD. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tom Seeley went on to request that the WCSO start providing written notice and meeting with the JCPD prior to conducting any operations within the jurisdictional boundaries of the City of Johnson City. Seeley wrote that the two agencies personnel had met about the issue as early as June 2024. Since January, he wrote, WCSO personnel had conducted six such operations, which he referred to as clandestine without notice or whats known as deconfliction. Deconflicting is a great thing. It works well when everybody plays well together. When people dont play well together, it doesnt work well at all. Eric Stanton, Law Enforcement Analyst Seeley wrote that keeping departments free from unintentional interference of other agencies helps keep officers safe from potential blue on blue incidents and helps keep confidential informants from being compromised in undercover operations. The City and JCPD are committed to resolving the issue of deconfliction and preserving the integrity of investigations while also prioritizing officer safety, Seeley concluded in the March 26 letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On its face, law enforcement analyst Eric Stanton said, the letter seemed to come from a reasonable place. If one of the agencies is coming in and conducting an investigation, its better if they involve the other agency to see, for example, if they are already actively investigating whatever theyre coming in for and to see if they can work together, Stanton told News Channel 11. He said the practice has been common for several decades. He said it increases efficient use of resources and helps avoid the possibility of friendly fire when an agency doesnt realize undercover officers from a different agency. Communication in this things paramount, Stanton said. Its the foundation. Without communication, there is no deconfliction. The sheriff most certainly does not report to the JCPD Washington County Attorney Allyson Wilkinsons April 3 response to Seeley was direct. She wrote that the request and the assertion are unfounded. Wilkinson said WCSO operations arent clandestine, and that the word connotes illegal or unethical purposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond that, she made it clear that sheriffs can operate anywhere within their counties, including inside corporate city limits. The County Sheriff does not report to the County Attorney, the County Mayor, or any other Washington County Official, Wilkinson added. And the County Sheriff most certainly does not report to the Johnson City (Police) Department, or the City of Johnson City. Stanton confirmed thats exactly the way it is in Tennessee. According to Tennessee Code Annotated, the duly elected sheriff in any of the counties in the state of Tennessee, he or she is the chief law enforcement officer of that county, Stanton said. He or she then can do whatever they feel they need to do as a law enforcement officer in order to enforce laws in that county. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sexton and his department, Wilkinson wrote, would keep approaching things just as they pleased, and will not agree to any effort to influence how the WCSO conducts investigations. The department extends professional courtesy to other agencies, she added, and as far as deconfliction, agencies working within the respective authority with good communication are the best prevention for blue on blue incidents. (I)f any questions or concerns regarding operational issues remain within JCPD, Chief Church should raise them directly with Sheriff Sexton in writing, Wilkinson wrote. Seeley responded April 16. He insisted that any inference that the use of clandestine by him implied nefarious actions by WCSO was an incorrect interpretation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To read that into the letter, is to miss the entire point of the letter to prevent potential blue on blue incidents in the future. Chief Church, he wrote, looks forward to speaking with Sheriff Sexton to address these issues to ensure the safety of officers of the WCSO and JCPD. If entities dont want to play well together, its unfortunate Stanton said multiple reasons can exist for agencies working in other jurisdictions and not practicing deconfliction, from mistrust of other agencies to plain egos. But he said that when it can happen effectively, information-sharing, avoiding unnecessary work in someone elses territory and better safety are all benefits of maximum communication. The same would apply, Stanton said, if the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation or Federal Bureau of Investigation were working cases inside Washington County, where their jurisdiction trumps the sheriffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They dont have to let the sheriff know but it would behoove them to at least notify them that theyre doing this because you never know, there may be a parallel investigation going, Stanton said. They could say, well, lets work together, lets take our piece of the pie, put it with your piece of the pie and that way were not duplicating services.' Stanton said there are plenty of examples of it not working that way. At the end of the day, if entities dont want to play well together, then its unfortunate for the citizens in that area, Stanton said. Theres egos involved, theres human nature involved and there are some agencies out there that just dont trust each other. I understand that. But its like anything else, any personal relationships in life. Sit down first, talk to the person, air your differences out. The majority of the time, youre going to see its minor differences and then move on for the betterment of the people in the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News Channel 11 reached out to both departments to see where things stood today. Johnson City sent a statement attributed to City Manager Cathy Ball: The Johnson City Police Department works closely with the Washington County Sheriffs Office and relies upon its support each and every day. The correspondence you referenced was aimed to ensure the safety of our shared public and law enforcement. By having open communication, both agencies are better able to achieve this as one team. Sexton sent a statement Monday morning. To this date I have received no communication of any deconfliction issues from anyone representing Johnson City or the Johnson City Police Department. The accusations in the complaint letter sent to the county attorney are baseless. Conversely, the county attorneys response letter was on point and accurate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The authority of the office of Sheriff is clearly stated in the Tennessee Constitution, Tennessee law, case law and rulings from the Supreme Court. The county Sheriff does not work for the county attorney or Mayor; the Sheriff works for the people. As the chief law enforcement officer of Washington County and the cities therein, I will continue to aggressively ferret out crime and enforce the laws of this state, especially drug laws, anywhere a criminal investigation may lead. The boundaries of Johnson City are for the city, not the Sheriff. The series of letters is below: Deconfliction Letters by Jeff Keeling on Scribd Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. Two people were shot in Granada Hills Tuesday afternoon. The shooting occurred in the 17300 block of Firma Court just after 12:30 p.m., the Los Angeles Police Department said. The Los Angeles Fire Department told KTLA that the attack occurred at a day care. The Kids Dream Learning Center is located on that block, though officials have not confirmed it as the site of the shooting. Fire officials also said they transported two women in their 50s with gunshot wounds to local hospitals in stable condition. No children were hurt in the shooting, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for the shooter, identified only as a man in his 70s, he was found in his Tesla near Balboa Boulevard and Sherman Way, police said, and he was taken into custody. Footage shared with KTLA showed an older white man with gray hair being led away from a Tesla in handcuffs. Luis Zuniga contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. NEW YORK (AP) At least 2 people, including a police officer, have been shot in a Manhattan office building, source tells AP. At least two people were killed when a helicopter operated by the German military crashed into a river near the eastern town of Grimma, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said on Tuesday. Another person is still missing following the crash early on Tuesday, Pistorius said on a visit to the scene. The Defence Ministry said the aircraft crashed during a test flight for the Bundeswehr, the country's military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Air Force chief of staff Holger Neumann spoke of a dark day for his forces. He said the highly experienced crew had set off at 9 am (0700 GMT) on a training flight. A military exclusion zone was set up at the crash site, where Bundeswehr forces were carrying out rescue efforts and initial investigations. The helicopter disappeared between 10 and 10:30 am, according to a spokesman for the fire brigade association of the Leipzig district. Paddlers found debris in the Mulde river around noon. Large quantities of kerosene have leaked at the scene of the crash. The wreck is lying in the middle of the river and is difficult to access, the fire brigade spokesman told dpa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emergency services were busy at the scene trying to contain the kerosene, he said. Some 200 emergency personnel were on site in the evening, according to Pistorius. Grimma is about 25 kilometres from the eastern city of Leipzig. Ibrahim Ghazal traveled through a number of European countries, evading extradition after arrests, by complaining he would be executed if he would return to Lebanon. Ibrahim Ghazal, a 36-year-old Lebanese man accused of murdering his model wife in Beirut in 2021, was arrested in the United Kingdom after sailing to Britain illegally on a small boat from France. Ghazal is currently serving a nine-month sentence for entering the UK without clearance. He is understood to be one of 23,000 migrants to have crossed the English Channel from France in 2025, according to the Telegraph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Interpol red notice was issued for Ghazal after his wife, Zeina Kanjo, wassuffocated to death. Before her death, the 33-year-old model had reportedly filed domestic violence and fraud complaints against her husband and was attempting to divorce him when he allegedly murdered her. Hours after Kanjos death, Ghazal traveled to Turkey. Lebanese media site Al Jadeed shared a recording in which Ghazal seemingly confirmed to the victims sister that he killed Kanjo. A British Border Force vessel arrives at the Port of Dover carrying people believed to be migrants, in Dover, Britain, January 15, 2025. (credit: Chris J. Ratcliffe/Reuters) I didnt want to, I didnt want her to die, when she was screaming, I just put my hand on her mouth, he said. Unchecked migration to the UK Ghazals arrival in the UK has stirred more controversy in the already heated debate on migration to Britain. As we know that the illegal immigrants arriving are from nationalities 24 times more likely to end up in prison, especially for sex offences, Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, told The Daily Mail. Every illegal immigrant should be immediately deported upon arrival then the crossings would soon end. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have seen terror suspects, murderers, rapists and drug dealers saunter into the country and jeopardize the safety of the British people," Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick told the British outlet. This is nothing less than a national security emergency. "The public couldnt care less about outdated international treaties and when the safety of their communities - of their own children and loved ones - is at stake. Before arriving in the UK, Ghazal traveled through a string of European nations, including Greece, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and France. Ghazal had been arrested in Stockholm in 2022, but his lawyers had secured his release by claiming he may be executed for the murder if he returned to Lebanon. A similar argument was made to secure his release from Germany when he was placed under arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ashraf Al-Moussawi, a lawyer representing the victim, complained that In reality, Lebanon hasnt carried out an execution since 1994, so it shouldnt have been an obstacle. Following the government's refusal to amend the law and the expiration of his detention in Sweden, he submitted a humanitarian asylum request, which was under review when he was released. He then wandered Europe until his recent arrest in England, Al-Moussawi said. Both the victims father and lawyer have urged the British government to deport Ghazal to Lebanon. While Kanjos father, Mohammed, wants to see his son-in-law return to face trial, he told the Daily Mail he had little hope in his daughter receiving justice - especially as Ghazal was able to reenter Lebanon a year after the murder to attend a relatives wedding. Members of the House of Representatives work at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch) The national group Vote Save America an online voter guide operated by the left-of-center political media company Crooked Media is partnering with a Utah political action committee to recruit progressive candidates and target certain swing legislative districts currently controlled by Republicans. Vote Save America is partnering with Elevate PAC (which is affiliated with Elevate Campaign strategies, a Utah-based political consulting firm) to actively recruit candidates for the Utah Legislature ahead of the 2026 elections, according to a news release issued Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Backed by an initial $20,000 investment from Vote Save America, Elevate PAC is already recruiting candidates in key swing districts who are ready to bring new energy and leadership to the state Legislature, the announcement said. The targeted legislative districts include eight seats in the House and two in the Senate, both of which have been dominated by Republicans for decades. All but one district include areas concentrated in Salt Lake County, Utahs most populated county. They include: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vote Save America is the political advocacy arm of Crooked Media, a media company founded by Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett and Tommy Vietor, who were all aides to former President Barack Obama, according to Influence Watch. The company hosts podcasts including Pod Save America and Lovett or Leave It, and encourages listeners to support progressive policies and vote for Democratic candidates. The national group is betting on Utahs shifting political landscape, Tuesdays news release said. Long considered safely Republican, Utah is showing signs of becoming competitive in the coming years. Utah during the 2024 presidential election remained solidly red. About 59.4% voted for President Donald Trump and 37.8% voted for former Vice President Kamala Harris, according to election results. Democrats have a stronghold in Utahs capital of Salt Lake City and some areas including in Salt Lake County, but they have struggled to gain traction in other parts of the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Utah is uniquely positioned for change, Shaniqua McClendon, vice president of politics for Crooked Media, said in a prepared statement. Its the youngest state in the country, one of the fastest-growing, and the most college-educated red state. No state in the nation has moved further to the left over the past 20 years than Utah. Theres an independent streak here that national politics has ignored for too long. Gabi Finlayson, principal at Elevate PAC, said the partnership with Vote Save America gives us the resources and reach to go find the people whove been shut out or ignored people with real stakes in their communities, not just the usual insiders. This initial $20,000 is going directly toward identifying and vetting potential candidates, Finlayson said. Were grateful to have a national partner that sees Utah the way we do: a real opportunity to build something different, right now. If youve never run for office before, if youve felt written off or overlooked, this is your chance. Elevate PAC referred to its website for more information about 2026 recruitment efforts and encouraged interested candidates to connect by emailing info@elevateutahpac.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Utah Republican Party Chairman Rob Axson, in a prepared statement issued Tuesday afternoon, defended the GOP incumbents. These Republican legislators are being targeted because theyve stood strong for Utah values: liberty, family, and life, Axson said. Out-of-state PACs dont represent Utahns. Their record is one of California money trying to buy influence rather than the record of accomplishment and service our Republican legislators provide. Well proudly defend our Utah legislators and keep fighting for the principles that make Utah strong. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE By Ahmed Eljechtimi BAB BERRED, Morocco (Reuters) -Beneath the blazing summer sun, Abderrahman Talbi surveyed the neat rows of flourishing cannabis blooms in compact fields, reflecting on how his life has changed since he joined Morocco's burgeoning legal cannabis industry two years ago. Like many farmers in the northern Rif mountains who have long grown the crop illegally, Talbi is relieved that raids and seizures by the authorities are no longer a worry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I can now say I am a cannabis farmer without fear," Talbi told Reuters. "Peace of mind has no price." Talbi's pivot to legal farming is an example of what Morocco, one of the world's biggest cannabis producers, hoped to achieve when it legalised cultivation for medical and industrial use, but not for recreational purposes, in 2022. Regulating cannabis farming brought with it hopes for fresh revenue and economic revitalisation in the impoverished Rif region. The step made Morocco a forerunner among major producing countries and the first in the Middle East and North Africa to join a global trend that has seen countries like Canada, Germany and Uruguay legalise production and use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also hoped to lure farmers away from the illegal economy in the restive Rif mountains, where cannabis production has long been tolerated to facilitate social peace. Al Hoceima, a major city in Rif, saw the largest protests in Morocco in 2016-17 over economic and social conditions. BLACK MARKET'S LURE PERSISTS Legalisation efforts have gained traction, with about 5,000 farmers joining the industry this year, from just 430 in 2023, says Morocco's cannabis regulator, or ANRAC. And legal production surged to nearly 4,200 tonnes last year, a 14-fold increase over the first harvest in 2023. Still, the black market remains dominant and lucrative due to demand for recreational use from Europe and regionally in Africa, potentially undermining efforts to fully regulate the sector. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morocco has 5,800 hectares (14,300 acres) of legally planted land, according to ANRAC. That's dwarfed by illegal cultivation spanning over 27,100 hectares, Interior Ministry data shows. While many farmers still choose illicit cultivation, they face the risk of increased crackdowns by authorities, which led to the seizure of 249 tonnes of cannabis resin by September last year, up 48% from all of 2023, according to the Interior Ministry. Mohammed Azzouzi, 52, spent three years in hiding for cannabis-related charges before receiving a royal pardon along with over 4,800 others last year. Now, he is preparing for his first legal harvest and hopes to earn more than the 10,000 dirhams ($1,100) he used to make in the illegal economy each year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RED TAPE The country's prohibition on growing cannabis for leisure use, along with bureaucratic red tape, limit legal farming, with every stage of the supply chain requiring a specific license from ANRAC, discouraging many a farmer from making the switch. A grower who wants to cultivate legally needs to join a licensed cooperative, which buys the farmer's product and processes it into derivatives or sells the resin to other licensed manufacturers. Talbi's cooperative, Biocannat, near the town of Bab Berred, 300 km (186 miles) north of Rabat, bought about 200 tonnes of cannabis last year from some 200 farmers, processing it into resin, supplements, capsules, oils and powders for medical and cosmetic purposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 60 km east of Biocannat, in the main producing area of Issaguen, farmer Mohamed El Mourabit was initially hopeful about the legalisation plan in 2021, but is less so now. "The process is too complicated," he said. And money talks, as well, for many farmers, who are lured by the higher rewards of the black market, despite its risks. While cooperatives take months to pay farmers about 50 dirhams per kilogram for the raw plant, on the illicit market, processed cannabis resin can fetch up to 2,500 dirhams per kilogram, farmers and activists say. To close that gap, legalisation advocates say growing for recreational use should be allowed, too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it's not clear whether that will happen soon. Mohamed Guerrouj, head of ANRAC, said legalising recreational use would only be considered within a medical framework. "The goal is to develop Morocco's pharmaceutical industry ... not coffee shops," he said. (Editing by Alexander Dziadosz and Bernadette Baum) A specter is haunting New York City the specter of socialism. When 33-year-old Zohran Mamdani decisively beat former Gov. Andrew Cuomo to win the Democratic mayoral primary, he put himself within arms reach of City Hall and sent the citys financial elite into shock. Free buses? Publicly owned grocery stores? More taxes aimed at the rich? The panic was palpable. Mamdani has already begun working to allay some anxiety, meeting with billionaires (whom he once said shouldnt exist), abandoning his 2020 calls to defund the police and slightly softening his rhetoric surrounding Israel. But if hes looking for some guidance about how to thrive in the city, he might look back about eight decades to the most successful socialist to ever hold office in New York: a man by the name of Vito Marcantonio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Marcantonio was elected to Congress again and again despite holding views much farther to the left than anyone who has ever won public office in New York. For seven terms on Capitol Hill, from 1934 to 1950 (with a two-year break in 1936), he represented the polyglot neighborhood of East Harlem. His longevity and his eventual defeat offer lessons for Mamdani as he appears on the cusp of winning real power. Marcantonio came to prominence as a top aide to one of New Yorks greatest figures, Fiorello LaGuardia, and would go on to win the congressional seat that LaGuardia occupied before he became mayor. Marcantonio was not the first socialist to win office in the city; several socialists were elected to the New York State Assembly in 1920 (where they were expelled). But those politicians were in the camp of democratic socialists (like Mamdani), with no sympathy for the totalitarianism of the Soviet Union. Marcantonio, by contrast, was a devoted follower of Moscow. When Hitler and Stalin signed their infamous 1939 non-aggression pact, Marcantonio became strongly against any U.S. involvement in the growing conflict in Europe. When Hitler invaded Russia in 1941, he quickly became an ardent interventionist. Such positions were relatively unremarkable during World War II, when Russia and the United States were allied. But when the Cold War began, Marcantonio remained a loyal supporter of Soviet policies. He opposed the Marshall Plan for European recovery, casting it as an attempt to serve the imperialist goals of the United States and Great Britain. And he was the only member of the House to oppose U.S. intervention in Korea, blaming the South Koreans for starting the conflict rather than the Communist-backed North. Marcantonios views on foreign policy may not have reflected those of his constituents yet they returned him to office repeatedly, as the candidate of the American Labor Party. (In fact, this party was so dominated by members of the Communist Party that mainstream unions fled and formed their own Liberal Party in New York.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why did Marcantonio keep winning? Because he served his constituents as few other politicians did. His clubhouse was a seven-day-a-week, morning-unto-nighttime, center for his constituents to find help for their needs. Marcantonio never took a vacation he would be there, along with a team of volunteer lawyers, health workers and community leaders. When people had problems with the rent, with their employers, with the authorities, Marcantonio and his aides and allies were there to provide help free of charge. It was, in effect, a congressmans version of sewer socialism the approach that kept socialists in office for decades in Milwaukee, and that Sen. Bernie Sanders embraced when he was mayor of Burlington: Keep the streets safe, keep the roads clear, pick up the trash. Mamdani knows the history. In a recent interview with the writer Derek Thompson, Mamdani said, I think sewer socialism [means] that we want to showcase our ideals, not by lecturing people about how correct we are, but rather by delivering and letting that delivery be the argument itself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are other signs Mamdani appears to understand that the way to serve the citizenry particularly the neediest and the middle class is to make the city work better. He has abandoned his defund the police call of a few years back, perhaps recognizing that the most frequent victims of crime are the poor. Hes publicly entertaining the idea of keeping current Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who is beloved by the citys elite (a move that would make some of his supporters unhappy, though that may be more of a political blessing than a curse). Mamdani also has the capacity to make some of his ideas seem less radical with a little reframing. Free college? The City College of New York was free for decades. Free buses? Well, Michael Bloomberg proposed free crosstown buses when he was mayor. Property tax hikes on the wealthy? Bloomberg proposed that as well. None of those moves will magically stop strenuous opposition from those who see Mamdanis ideology as a menace; the New York Post runs practically a story a day assailing the terror at the gates. They will not lessen the opposition from those who see his criticism of Israel, and his verbal gymnastics over the phrase globalize the intifada, as disqualifying. But first, Mamdanis biggest challenge is to convince the city that he and his team will work to unclog the sclerotic pace of change. And that will happen if and only if the city comes to see him as their tribune. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its worth noting that Marcantonio was eventually ousted from office, but only after Republicans, Democrats and Liberals united behind a single candidate after years of defeat. Its another echo to the 2025 mayoral race. If the election were held today, polls show Mamdani would win against a splintered field of challengers. He doesnt have majority support, but its enough to prevail against Republican Curtis Sliwa and incumbent Mayor Eric Adams and Cuomo running as independents. And if Mamdani does win, he is sure to face a determined opposition that will seek to undermine him in office and take him down in the next election. Ultimately, Mamdani will clearly not want to embrace Vito Marcantonios ideology if hes elected. Embracing the way he served his people? That might make him a success. Democrats should want independents voting in their primaries, not bar them. I used to believe "closed" primaries were an essential element of the two-party system. Primary elections exist for each of our two major political parties to carry their party banner and support the party platform in the general election. It made sense to require those participating in those elections to at least be registered as Democratic or Republican voters. Those who declined to do so, called "independent" or "non-aligned" voters, can wait for the general election. I opposed open primaries because I believe that Americas traditional two-party tradition, despite its flaws, needed to be strengthened, not weakened. Because of our two-party system tradition, we have avoided allowing slivers of voters in fringe parties to exert disproportionate power, as seen in parliamentary systems such as Israel, where, for example, far-right religious parties have influence far out of proportion to their numbers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But a recent column by CNN and Sirius radio independent political analyst Michael Smerconish has changed my mind about favoring the "closed" party primary. Smerconish recently joined with David Thornburgh, the reform-minded chairman of Ballot PA Action, to challenge Pennsylvanias closed party primary system in a legal action filed directly with the state Supreme Court. In a recent column headlined "Let Independent Voters Vote," Smerconish made his case with bracing clarity. "Im one of the 43% of Americans who according to Gallup, self-identify not as Republicans or Democrats, but as independent voters," he wrote."There are more than one million such registered voters here in Pennsylvania and yet, we dont have a say in primary elections even though our tax dollars are being used to stage such contests." In a lawsuit trying to force the issue, Smerconish and Thornburgh make the compelling constitutional argument that taxpayer-funded primaries must be "free and equal" and Pennsylvanias constitution and the "closed primary doesnt treat independent voters votes equally with those of party registrants." The same principle is applicable in all other states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a compelling legal argument. But the political case against closed primaries for the Democratic Party at this stage of our history is even stronger. The Democratic Party brand is at one of the lowest approval levels ever among the U.S. electorate. According to recent polls, more than six out of 10 Americans have a negative view of the Democratic Party - my party. You would think if Democrats want to win back Congress in the 2026 midterms and the presidency in 2028, this would be the worst possible time to alienate independent voters. The latest Gallup data on registered voters further shows the number one choice in America today is to register as an independent - by a large margin: Independent registrants are in first place at 43% of the electorate, an 8% gain since 2008, compared to 28% for Democrats and Republicans each. Almost all the net gain seems to have come from disillusioned Democrats, with the Democrats dropping the same 8% as the independents gained over this 16-year time period, with Republicans remaining about the same. So instead of shutting out independent-minded voters, we should be courting them - and listening to them. Which is why I now support Smerconish and Thornburghs effort to open up party primaries in Pennsylvania to independent voters. I hope state party leaders in that state and across the country agree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue of why the Democrats brand has become so negative needs to be addressed. I will do that in my next two Purple Nation columns, but I will give you a hint here, by paraphrasing the famous James Carville formulation: Its about policy positions, stupid. In brief: We Democrats need to go back to the "third way" policies of the last and most successful Democratic political candidate and movement: The politics and approach of Bill Clinton, who left on his last day in office in January 2001 after two terms as president with a 65% job approval rating - the highest in U.S. history for a second-term president since modern day polling was invented. How did Clinton do that? Not by mushy center-avoiding principles. But by embracing a third way approach, a reformed FDR liberalism: Neither left nor right, but based on policy principles where most swing-voters reside; FDR liberalism on social programs that benefit working families, but also, requiring individual responsibility; moderation and tolerance on cultural issues; and conservative fiscal responsibility on our federal budget. Stay tuned. Lanny J. Davis is the founder of his Washington, D.C., law firm, Lanny J. Davis & Associates LLC, uniquely operating at the intersection of law, media, and politics. A former White House Special Counsel to President Clinton, he also served on President Bushs post-9/11 Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board. He is the author of six books on politics, government, law, and crisis management. He is due to publish his seventh book early next year, titled Finding the Third Way: Lessons in the Politics of Civility From My Journey Through History." Rep. Mike Collins (R-Ga.) began his bid for U.S. Senate with an embarrassing oversight this week after the name of his home state of Georgia was misspelled in video shared by his campaign. In a clip shared by the Mike Collins War Room (@TeamOverhaulGA) account on X (formerly Twitter), the congressman is heard taking aim at out of touch Democrats in the Senate before declaring that weve got to be unafraid to call balls and strikes. The text GEORIGA, LETS RIDE then pops up on the screen before a logo resembling a truck an apparent nod to the trucking company Collins family owns appears and zooms off the screen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The clip was posted late Sunday afternoon, a day before Collins officially launched his campaign via a separate video one that accurately spells his states name that he shared to his personal account. The GEORIGA clip still appears on X, as of early Tuesday morning. Collins, in response to a post pointing out the error, claimed that the clip was not a campaign launch video and his campaign didnt create it. Fan art. And I thought otherwise they did a pretty good job, he added. The clip appears to take footage and audio fromvideosshared to the congressmans official account just days before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The congressman has shared other posts from the War Room page, which describes itself as the official team account for his campaign. The "Mike Collins War Room" (@TeamOverhaulGA) account on X shared a clip that misspells the name of the congressman's home state. Collins, in a post from his personal account on the platform, claimed that the clip was "not a campaign launch video" but rather "fan art." X Collins a MAGA loyalist who haspushedmisinformation and made controversialposts over the years joins fellow Donald Trump backer Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) in the GOP primary field in hopes of unseating Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) in next years midterm elections. Related... COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) A letter from the head of the South Carolina Freedom Caucus is requesting an immediate vote to remove one of its former leaders. Letter from Representative Jordan PaceDownload Representative Robert, R.J. May III was suspended without pay from the South Carolina House after being indicted last month on ten federal counts related to child sexual abuse material. May was one of the co-founders of the Freedom Caucus, which is the ultraconservative party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now the leader of the Freedom Caucus, Representative Jordan Pace (R Berkley), is calling for a vote to remove him completely from the statehouse. Who knows how long the trial is going to take, or when the trials going to start regardless of the outcome, he will be there [in prison] to represent its district, Pace said. So its an unprecedented scenario, which is why I think we should take this unprecedented step. Pace said it is crucial to do this so that Mays district will be represented in January. The letter from Pace was sent to the Speaker of the House and Senate President. They would have all of the lawmakers come back and vote to remove Representative May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both offices have no comment for 7NEWS as of now, and we have reached out to Mays lawyer and are awaiting a response. If convicted, Mays charges could carry up to 20 years in federal prison. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. To the editor: I am revolted by the photo of the grinning visitors flashing a thumbs up in front of President Trump's monument to misery and inhumanity, the so-called "Alligator Alcatraz" detention center ( Deportation flights from Floridas Alligator Alcatraz detention center have begun, DeSantis says, July 25). How did so many people become dismissive and uncaring about rights, both human and those enshrined in the Constitution of this formerly great country? Shame on us. This is happening on our watch. Elizabeth Alexander, Ojai .. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To the editor: In regard to the photo of a couple happily posing in front of the "Alligator Alcatraz" sign I know the comparison is not completely fair, but I could not help but imagine what it would be like to see the same scene in the 1940s, with a happy couple in front of one of Germanys concentration camps. It is well documented that most people swept up in the immigration raids have no criminal convictions and that raids target businesses and churches; it is not about catching hardened criminals. It is also well documented that the Florida facility has insufficient, even inhumane (and I would suggest un-American) conditions, with a name and location purposefully chosen for harshness. That people can go out of their way to proudly support a facility that isn't up to the standards of a prison, designed as a holding pen for noncriminals picked up at Home Depot and your neighborhood church this will be another shameful part of American history. David Lynn, Simi Valley This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. To the editor: Going along with contributing writer Josh Hammers A-average assessment ( Report card on Trumps first six months shows a lot of wins, a little room for growth, July 25), I offer these additions: Ensuring the increase of economic inequality in this country: A+. With President Trumps manipulation of tariffs and taxes, American billionaires will get even richer and average citizens will struggle to buy groceries and pay for medical care, never mind homes. Keeping our international allies guessing: A+. Will we have any allies left in three years? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Creating havoc and instability in cities with a large immigrant population: A+. So what if around 70% of those swept up in Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids have no criminal convictions ? At least we got the other 30%. Denigrating as many opposition voices as possible: A+. Attack universities, defund public broadcasting, prohibit diversity, equity and inclusion, restrict voting rights, ban books, sue journalists and disable support for education at all levels. Disregard for future generations and the effects of climate change: A+. Roll back restrictions on fossil fuel and disable support for renewable energy resources. Decrease staff protecting our national parks. Ruling with intimidation and threats: A+. Exhibit A: Jan. 6, 2021. Exhibit B: Some Republican lawmakers are OK with Exhibit A. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Breaking with American traditions and founding principles: A+. Who needs three branches of government anyway when you have a genius at the reins? Constitution? Oh, that old thing? Normalizing unethical behavior, name-calling and blatant lying coming from the president of the United States: A+++. Gotta give it to him: He really is a genius at this. Laura Owen, Santa Monica .. To the editor: Economy: The stock markets up, but more than 60,000 tech workers have been laid off, tourisms down $29 billion and tariffs are crushing small businesses. Historic trade deals are repairs covered in flattery for Trumps own mess. Grade: D. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Domestic policy: His talking points dont make America safer, healthier or smarter. Grade: C-. Immigration: Deportations are down , but cruelty is up snatching citizens, legal residents and people already in the system. Nothing about this makes us safer. Grade: F. Law: Those ludicrous injunctions from lower courts are more reasoned than the Supreme Courts shadow docket rulings. Grade: C. Foreign policy: Aiding ethnic cleansing in Gaza isnt rewarding friends. Delaying Irans program (maybe only by months) isnt safety. Grade: C. Charla Myers, Santa Monica .. To the editor: On my grading scale, Trump gets an F for empathy, an F for honesty and an F for just plain human decency. And clearly, he does not play well with others. Joyce Altschule-Pisarev, Long Beach This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. To the editor: As a Democrat (in terms of party) and a democrat (in terms of my belief in democracy), I strenuously oppose the idea to reverse, even temporarily, Californias voter mandate for independently drawn political districts. This article aptly describes the risks of such a maneuver ( California Democrats may target GOP congressional districts to counter Texas, July 25). The proposed Texas gerrymandering is just one of the ways the governments of Texas and other states continue their dishonorable, undemocratic and marginally legal efforts to achieve Republican victories. Examples are rules that suppress voter registration, barriers to casting a ballot and state supervision of local elections where Republicans have lost. If not through gerrymandering, they will continue to find ways to cheat. Adherence to the will of California voters for independent redistricting is not holier than thou as Gov. Gavin Newsom suggests. Indeed, Democrats need to be putting up the best fight possible right now. But, a win in this fight is a losing proposition long term. In support of democratic principles, lets please not walk into this Texas sewer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carla St. Romain, Pasadena .. To the editor: Bravo, columnist George Skelton ( Newsom responds to Trumps gutter politics, July 28). President Trump is dragging this country into the gutter. The voters couldnt have seen this coming 15 years ago when Proposition 20 was on the ballot, but since were there now, are we supposed to just wallow, swallowing the bile while still believing were the better angels? What has that gotten us thus far? Only more insults and threats. Fight on, Newsom. Thats the spirit! Zena Thorpe, Chatsworth .. To the editor: I voted for nonpartisan redistricting because I thought, and still think, its the right thing to do. However, in the face of Texas move to brazenly redistrict to keep control of the House of Representatives with the GOP, I see no need to stand by and let California be run over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newsom must come to the defense of California with new districts. There is no glory or reasonableness in standing in front of the House of Representatives shouting, We are holier than Texas. Charles M. Weisenberg, Sherman Oaks This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. TYLER, Texas (KETK) Earlier in the summer, the Texas House and Senate passed a bill that banned cell phones, smart watches, and tablets at public schools starting this school year. Now, Texas schools are having to implement their policies and guidelines. Check here for your East Texas school and how your student will be impacted: Phones Down, Heads Up: East Texas districts to enforce cell phone ban in new school year Apple Springs ISD Starting Aug. 5, students will not be allowed to have cell phones or other devices on school property during normal hours per House Bill 1481, according to the district. ASISD said if a cell phone is confiscated by staff, the district will not return the phone to the student and it can only be returned to the parent or legal guardian. Arp ISD The districts cell phone policy limits the use of personal communication devices during school hours. Arp ISD said Personal communication devices include cell phones, smartwatches, tablets and pagers or other electronic devices. Avinger ISD Students must gain approval to possess personal telecommunications devices on campus, which include laptops, tablets or other portable computers. Those who use devices without approval will have their devices confiscated and turned over to the principals office. Check here for the latest policies. Broaddus ISD The No Cell Phones and Electronics Policy will begin on Aug. 13, with the following rules taking effect. Check here for the latest policy guidelines. Brownsboro ISD The district is reviewing its cell phone policies to meet the new requirements of House Bill 1481. More details of the policy will be shared by the district before the 2025-2026 school year begins. Bullard ISD Canton ISD According to Canton ISD, the district will implement its new cell phone policy for all campuses and grade levels going into the 2025-2026 school year. Electronic devices, including cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds and tablets, must be turned off and stored in backpacks or designated areas during the instructional day. Visit the link to view the guidelines. Center ISD Center ISD said Students are not allowed to use personal communication devices which include cell phones, smartwatches, tablets paging devices, headphones and earbuds and alternative devices during the instructional day. An instructional day is considered the time from the first bell to the last bell, according to the district. Visit the link to view the guidelines. Como-Pickton CISD The district is reviewing and updating its campus policies to comply with House Bill 1481. Full details will be shared with families closer to the school year, according to the district. Crockett ISD The district released its cell phone ban policy on Facebook. You can view it here. Diboll ISD The district has released the details of their No Cell From Bell-to-Bell cell phone policy going into the 2025-2026 school year. Visit this link to learn the full details. Grapeland ISD Grapeland ISD has released the guidelines of its personal electronic communication policy going into the 2025-2026 school year. The details are available on their most recent Facebook post, which can be found through this link. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas students cell phones banned from schools under new law Henderson ISD Henderson ISD said the district is required to develop new policies in compliance with House Bill 1481 and encourages families to discuss the new law guidelines with their students. The school district has yet to provide its policies to the public. Longview ISD Longview ISD revealed its cell phone policy going into the 2025-2026 school year and the guidelines that were adopted in compliance with House Bill 1481. Longview ISD adopts statewide cellphone ban as new school year approaches Lufkin ISD The district announced the details of its cell phone policy going into the 2025-2026 school year. Mabank ISD Visit this link to see the guidelines of Mabank ISDs cell phone/electronic devices policy. Malakoff ISD Malakoff ISD has updated its cell phone policy which will begin on the first day of school, Aug. 13. Visit this link for the full details. Nacogdoches ISD Here are the details of Nacogdoches ISDs cell phone policy on campus. New Diana ISD The district posted its cell phone policy and what consequences come with breaking the policy. Visit this link to learn more about New Diana ISDs cell phone policy going into this coming school year. New Summerfield ISD The district released its cell phone and personal communication device policy for the new school year, which includes rules concerning devices such as cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, earbuds, pagers and more. Visit this link to see the full guidelines enforced by New Summerfield ISD. Overton ISD The district announced the details of their Phone Free in Overton ISD cell phone policy for the 2025-2026 school year. The full details of their policy is available through this link. Quitman ISD Quitman ISD lays out its full cell phone policy for the 2025-2026 school year in this link. San Augustine ISD A letter from San Augustine ISD Interim Superintendent Marc Griffin lays out some of the districts cell phone ban policies for the 2025-2026 school year. Visit this link to read the full letter. Slocum ISD Slocum ISD released the details of its cell phone ban policy, and families can learn about the new rules by visiting this link. Trinity ISD Trinity ISD has released details regarding its cell phone policy; people can visit their website. Tyler ISD Tyler ISD defined the rules of their Phone Free in Tyler ISD cell phone policy that will be enforced during the 2025-2026 school year. Visit this link to see the full policy. Union Hill ISD Union Hill ISD is currently reviewing its cell phone policy and making the necessary changes in compliance with House Bill 1481. Community members are invited to join a meeting on July 31 at 6 p.m. in the school cafeteria, where more information will be provided regarding their new cell phone policy. Van ISD Van ISD is currently reviewing its cell phone policies, and the district said more details will be shared closer to the school year. Winnsboro ISD Winnsboro ISD has updated their 2025-2026 cell phone policy in accordance to House Bill 1481. Visit this link to read the full policy. Winona ISD Winona ISD released the details of its cell phone ban policy, and families can learn about the new rules by visiting this link. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement East Texas school districts that were not listed will be added to the article once the districts release information regarding their cell phone policy. If your school district has released its guidelines, please email us at newsroom@ketk.com. You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) Hundreds of San Angelo residents packed the Tom Green County Commissioners Courtroom Monday afternoon for a town hall meeting with U.S. Rep. August Pfluger (R-Texas) that quickly became heated. The event began on a calm note, with Pfluger recognizing local volunteer fire departments and city and county officials who played critical roles in responding to the recent July 4th floods. Attendees applauded as Pfluger thanked those who helped in the disaster relief efforts. However, once the floor was opened to questions from the public, the tone shifted rapidly. One of the first topics to stir strong reactions was immigration and border security. Pfluger defended his stance on border policy, stating, People have been coming to this country for many decades, legally, correctly, and theyve been doing so following law and order. He criticized the previous four years, saying there was a complete deconstruction of the rule of law when it comes to our border, asserting that no new legislation or funding was needed to secure the border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Free well water screening for San Angelo residents this week But several attendees challenged Pflugers rhetoric, questioning why the positive contributions of immigrants were rarely acknowledged. One attendee asked, Why dont we acknowledge people who come over here and say, you guys did a good job? We need immigrants, folks. We need immigrants to help this country get stronger. The conversation grew more intense when Pfluger mentioned the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which drew boos from the crowd. Questions also ranged across other issues such as taxes on tips, health insurance policies, and tariffs, all of which elicited mixed reactions and further heated debate. A particularly emotional moment came when a 92-year-old woman stood and addressed Pfluger directly, earning a round of applause. We dont want to hear you talk youre here to listen. You need to listen to the people, she said firmly. The woman, who said she had worked on the border, expressed firsthand knowledge of the issues, striking a chord with many in the room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congressman Pfluger aids flood survivors at Paul Ann Church Throughout the meeting, audience members often shouted over Pfluger and each other, making it difficult at times for the congressman to maintain control. Pfluger acknowledged the charged atmosphere, saying, I can tell this is a feisty crowdI like it. Thats what makes San Angelo great. We also have a spirit of decency, okay? Despite Pfluger speaking for more than an hour, many attendees chose to leave earlysome in protest, others out of frustration. The meeting concluded abruptly, with many questions left unanswered and tensions still simmering among the crowd. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com. Lithuania is preparing to deploy a drone acoustic detection system developed in Ukraine, which is expected to be introduced in 2026. Source: European Pravda; Raimundas Vaiksnoras, Commander of the Lithuanian Armed Forces, in a conversation with Lithuanian public broadcaster LRT, amid discussions about another incident involving a drone entering Lithuanian airspace Details: Vaiksnoras was asked whether Lithuania would have an acoustic drone detection system and when to complement the existing radar systems, which have their own technical limitations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote from Vaiksnoras: "This year has been the starting point, as we have allocated funds for the purchase. Testing will take place by the end of the year, and, as the Air Force Commander mentioned today, from next year the use of these systems will begin." Details: Vaiksnoras added that the process had been somewhat delayed due to bureaucratic procedures, because "this is, so to speak, a Ukrainian system that had to be adapted to our US systems due to sensitive nuances". It had previously been mentioned that the system in question is Sky Fortress. He also said that additional air defence systems would be deployed closer to the border with Belarus. Background: On the morning of 28 July, a drone similar to a Shahed UAV flew into Lithuania. Police were alerted to the presence of the drone, believed to have entered Lithuanian airspace from Belarus, after receiving multiple eyewitness reports near the border. The last sighting was near Vilnius. Minister of National Defence Dovile Sakaliene suggested that the drone might have flown into Lithuanian territory because of a Ukrainian electronic warfare system. A similar incident occurred on 10 July, when a Gerbera UAV (Shahed-type drone) flew into Lithuania via Belarus. Lithuania subsequently sent a note of protest to Belarus. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! In Lithuania, a special air defence unit has been redeployed closer to the border with Belarus due to the drone threat. Source: Commander of the Lithuanian Armed Forces Raimundas Vaiksnoras, cited by Lithuanian TV channel TV3, as reported by European Pravda Details: Vaiksnoras attended a meeting convened by President Gitanas Nauseda after an incident in which a drone entered Lithuanian territory from Belarus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the meeting, Vaiksnoras said: "Air defence measures have been reinforced, and an air defence battalion capable of detecting and, if necessary, destroying various threats has been redeployed closer to the border". Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene, who also participated in the meeting, noted that the existing airspace surveillance capabilities are insufficient to detect low-flying objects. "We lack radars capable of identifying small, manoeuvrable targets in complex weather conditions," she said. The minister added that the proposed changes include improving airspace surveillance systems, purchasing new equipment and accelerating ongoing procurements. Background: On the morning of 28 July, Lithuanians living near the Belarusian border reported to the police that they had seen and heard something resembling a drone. Video footage from one witness suggested it might have been a Shahed-type drone. Sakaliene suggested that the drone could have entered Lithuanian territory due to the impact of Ukrainian electronic warfare systems. The commander of the Lithuanian Armed Forces added that more air defence systems would be deployed closer to the Belarusian border and that from next year Lithuania would begin using a Ukrainian acoustic drone detection system. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! LITTLE ROCK, Ark. On Monday, President Donald Trump urged Israel to get people living in Gaza food, adding that the U.S is also preparing to set up food centers in Gaza. Advocates from Little Rock Peace For Palestine have joined in the fight to end hunger. One man, who goes by the name Dr. Ahmed for security purposes, is in Gaza now. Another advocate, Ebrahim Abumasrah, has also been communicating with Dr. Ahmed since he left Little Rock. President Trump calls for Gaza aid and ceasefire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For four days he was just waiting waiting around because they had rejected the first day. They rejected the second day, but finally they were able to just let him in, Abumasrah said. Abumasrah said Dr. Ahmed has finally made it into Gaza after 14 hours, and hes seen a lot in that time. Theyre funneling all these people to one location to get food, Abumasrah said. Dr. Ahmeds journey was long, and what hes seen since being there last week is painful and disturbing. People are being put in cages and theres a lot of people that are sniping around just to scare people, Abumasrah said. The situation in Gaza has been worsening as people continue to starve. Dr.Ahmed says families are desperate for food and some of the people waiting in line to serve were trampled and injured by drones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The people that are actually going to get food, they have a choice. You get food to keep going another day and probably get shot or starve to death, Abumasrah said. President Trump calls for Gaza aid and ceasefire Dr. Ahmed has been getting people to recovery, like 17-year-old Amala, who Dr. Ahmed said her entire family was killed in an explosion. He also helped 7-year-old Abdullah, who was hit by shrapnel. For my friend, a dear doctor, to be risking his life when he doesnt have to. Its 2025, aid can easily be put in, Abumasrah said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLRT - FOX16.com. DENVER (KDVR) Residents at the StoneCreek of Littleton Assisted Living and Memory Care showed that there is never a time or place in life where a water battle isnt fun. StoneCreek of Littleton hosted a Super Soaker contest for its residents. Sanders to provide tuition support for player retiring from head injury The competitors took to battle, proving who had the best eye by knocking over cups and balls that were placed on a table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The participants were able to beat the heat of summer during the fun contest. Summer is the perfect time to bring residents outside for some lighthearted competition and fresh air, said Ashley Gainer, Executive Director of StoneCreek of Littleton. These kinds of activities help keep everyone moving and give them a chance to connect with each other. StoneCreek of Littleton said that a study in the Midlife in the United States project shows that spending time outside and staying active during summer not only provides fun for seniors, but also helps reduce stress, improve mood and support brain health. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. A Liverpudlian minicab company has won a David versus Goliath legal victory against Uber that means small taxi companies will not have to pay VAT on fares. The Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that minicab drivers could trade directly with passengers, a legal position that means the vast majority of private hire trips will not incur the 20pc tax. Uber and other minicab firms in London have had to pay VAT on rides since the US company lost a High Court case in 2021. However, the situation was unresolved outside the capital, which is governed by different private hire laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uber had sought a legal declaration that all minicab operators should have to pay VAT, with the High Court ultimately siding with the US tech company on the matter. However, this was later challenged by Delta Taxis, a Liverpool-based minicab firm that has operated in the city since 1968, as well as Cardiffs Veezu. Delta warned that a victory for Uber would lead to a 20pc rise in fares and had positioned the battle as a David vs Goliath moment, accusing Uber of a cynical, heavy-handed attack against smaller, independent family-run businesses like ours. The Merseyside company, which has around 2,000 drivers, had raised money for the case by crowdfunding along with Veezu. They were also supported by Uber rival Bolt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, the Supreme Court upheld Deltas successful Court of Appeal challenge, meaning that small firms can keep operating without paying VAT. The decision is the latest legal setback for Uber, which has suffered defeats over the status of its drivers as well as its business model in London. The legal arguments centred around whether minicab firms could employ an agency model, in which a passengers contract is with the driver, or a principal model, in which the passengers contract is with the business. Under the former model, fares are generally not liable for VAT, since individual drivers do not tend to meet the 90,000 annual revenue threshold for paying the tax. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Supreme Court ruled that operators outside of London could employ either model. Uber and other minicab firms in London pay VAT under the principal model. The US company has applied this policy nationwide and said it would continue to do so despite the ruling. Nia Cooper, Veezus chief legal officer, said: This ruling also shows that British-owned businesses can stand up against global giants that attempt to use litigation as a tactic to shape the sector to suit their business model. Deltas Paul McLaughlin said: This ruling draws a line under a long-running dispute and were incredibly proud to have played our part in defending the private hire taxi industry and protecting a British institution and our passengers. Time to level the playing field An Uber spokesman said: The Supreme Court ruling confirms that different contractual protections apply for people booking trips in London compared to the rest of England and Wales. The ruling has no impact on Ubers application of VAT, which has been upheld twice by other courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bolt, an Uber rival, called for legal changes to overturn VAT charges in London. Kimberly Hurd, its UK boss, said: We welcome the courts decision to uphold the agency model, a framework taxi firms and customers across the country have relied on for 50 years. Its time for a modern, consistent regulatory framework that levels the playing field for all operators, regardless of where they are. Uber and Bolt have separately challenged HMRC over how VAT is charged on fares. The companies have argued that the tax should only be applied to a businesss cut of fares, which is between 15pc and 25pc, while HMRC had argued it should be the entire fare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HMRC has stopped collecting VAT from Uber after Bolt won a legal victory against the tax authority in March, pending a ruling in Ubers separate case. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Liz Kendall is facing a backlash over her planned benefit cuts after MPs warned that slashing universal credit (UC) payments would push more disabled people into poverty. On Tuesday, the influential Work and Pension Committee said it was alarmed by Ms Kendalls proposed changes to UC, which will see top-up payments to new claimants who are disabled halved from 423.27 to 217.26 a month from 2026. The committee, chaired by Labour MP Debbie Abrahams, warned that slashing the benefits risked forcing more disabled people into poverty. The reforms risk reducing payments for people with severe mental health conditions, the committee said, because their condition may not qualify for a full UC payment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Abrahams said the Governments own analysis showed that the reduction in the UC health top-up payment would push approximately 50,000 people into poverty by the end of the decade. However, Helen Whately, shadow work and pensions secretary, said: Politicians should be trying to get welfare spending under control, not handing out even more cash. Its a sobering fact that the British Government spends more on sickness benefits than on defence this cannot be allowed to continue. UC is Britains main benefit and it replaced a myriad other payments, such as jobseekers allowance, child tax credits and housing benefits, in 2012. Claimants who are disabled can claim a top-up payment in addition to standard UC, but the Government is hoping to change this amid fears too many people are claiming it on spurious grounds. Welfare battle Ms Kendall had been battling rebels from her own party to push through a watered-down version of her welfare reforms. Following a government policy reversal and a series of major concessions to Labour rebels, it eventually passed at the start of the month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of her reforms, Ms Kendall, who is the Work and Pensions Secretary, has sought to address Britains ballooning welfare spending, which is estimated to reach 378bn by 2029-30 almost double the 210bn paid out to claimants in 2013-14. Yet concessions made to the bill are expected to wipe out a third of the 5bn they had been expected to save taxpayers, piling further pressure on the Treasury. Ms Kendall warned earlier this month that once workers started receiving the health element of UC, only 3pc a year managed to get off the benefit again. Despite this, Ms Abrahams said: There are still issues with these welfare reforms, not least with the cut in financial support that newly sick and disabled people will receive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Abrahams has been a staunch critic of the Governments welfare reforms bill alongside other Labour rebels, including Meg Hillier and Rachael Maskell, who had pushed for changes to the bill. The fallout from the bill is far from over, as Ms Abrahams told Sir Keir Starmer at the liaison committee that the fear and anxiety felt by disabled people following the Governments welfare reform bill cannot be underestimated. In a tense exchange between the Left-wing MP and the Prime Minister last week, Ms Abrahams said the reforms were far removed from Labour values and warned that the Government must do better. A recent report from the Office for Budget Responsibility warned that the UKs national debt is on track to spiral from just under 100pc of GDP to 270pc in the next 50 years if nothing is done to reduce the benefits bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A government spokesman said: Our welfare reforms will support those who can work into jobs and ensure there is always a safety net for those that need it. The impact assessment shows our reforms will lift 50,000 children out of poverty and our additional employment support will lift even more families out of poverty. The reforms will rebalance universal credit rates to reduce the perverse incentives that trap people out of work, alongside genuinely helping disabled people and those with long-term health conditions into good, secure work backed by 3.8bn in employment support over this parliament. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The Brief Jonathan Hoang, a 21-year-old with a developmental disability, has been missing since March from Arlington, Washington. His family believes he was lured away online and is organizing community search efforts, including a "Find Jonathan Week of Action." A $100,000 reward is being offered for information leading to Jonathan's return. ARLINGTON, Wash. - For four months, the family of an Arlington man who disappeared has been asking: where is Jonathan Hoang? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Without him here, its like there is a big gaping hole in our heart that is irreplaceable," said Thao Hoang, Jonathans dad. He and his wife Anne sat side by side holding hands, drawing strength from one another. They told FOX 13 they are hopeful theyll find their son, but they say sometimes, the pain of not knowing where he is can be overwhelming. "Its a roller coaster of emotions throughout the day," Thao Hoang said. "Its scary and nerve-wracking, and we just feel sorry for ourselves sometimes and then we think Jonathan is in a lot worse place than we are," Anne Hoang, Jonathans mom, said. Timeline The 21-year-old, who has a developmental disability, has been missing since March. His family says, while he is 21 years old, he has the mindset of an 8 or 9-year-old, and they believe someone befriended him online, then lured him out of his home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, they got a glimmer of hope when a Ring doorbell camera captured a video of someone believed to be Jonathan in Kirkland, which is about an hour away from where Jonathan lives in Arlington. "It looks like he was trying his hardest to get home even though he didnt know his address," Thao Hoang said. Since then, theyve had some leads, but still no Jonathan despite online posts, flyers and multiple community search efforts. "When we go out there and call his name, its like the world is so big and were so small, and we definitely need the community to have their eyes and ears out there for anything that might seem out of place because that might be the ticket to bring Jonathan home," Anne Hoang said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At The Coffee Stand in Kirkland, each drink they serve now comes with a sleeve with Jonathans photo and QR code. "You come by and get it in the morning and then you have your cup on your desk all day so youre looking at it all day and you can recognize the picture, you can recognize the face," said Randi Manuel, co-owner of The Coffee Stand. Some have likened it to a modern-day face on the milk carton. "It only takes one person to be like, oh wait, maybe thats him," said Patrick Kettell, The Coffee Stand co-owner. "We both have teenage kids, so if it were us, wed want someone to help." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Its important in times like this for everybody to get together and rally to help your neighbor out," Manuel said. Jonathans parents told FOX 13 they are grateful for all the support from the community as well as across the country, and even support from Australia and Europe. This week, the family is holding a "Find Jonathan Week of Action," which includes a Honk and Wave event on Saturday in Everett. "Well never give up looking for him until we find him," Thao Hoang said. He told FOX 13 that if someone is behind Jonathans disappearance and took him, they wont press any charges, they just want him back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A $100,000 reward is being offered for information that leads to finding Jonathan. The Source Information in this story came from original FOX 13 Seattle reporting and interviews with the family of Jonathan Hoang and The Coffee Stand. MORE NEWS FROM FOX 13 SEATTLE Suspect arrested after Lummi Nation officer shot multiple times in Whatcom County Bryan Kohberger trial: Attorney assesses scathing statement by victim's sister Driver kills 2 in Puyallup, WA, arrested for DUI vehicular homicide Bryan Kohberger in court: Expert talks body language during family statements Filipino immigration advocates in WA launch national alliance Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police make 2 arrests for March stabbing in Marysville Here's when, where to see the Blue Angels in Seattle To get the best local news, weather and sports in Seattle for free, sign up for the daily FOX Seattle Newsletter. Download the free FOX LOCAL app for mobile in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for live Seattle news, top stories, weather updates and more local and national news. MILLCREEK, Utah (ABC4) Three days following the devastating fire at the Willow Glen Apartments in Millcreek, one local animal rescue organization is working to find lost cats for residents affected by the fire. Roughly 50 people lost their homes in the fire, and many of them have missing cats as well. Among an outpouring of support and donations from the community, the local rescue organization Whiskers is setting traps in hopes of capturing any missing cats that may still be nearby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ NEXT: Millcreek City overwhelmed by supply donations for those impacted by fire Whiskers is working with officials and was granted permission to be on-site at the apartment complex. They have set traps around the property with water stations, and the traps have cameras so that they can know when a cat has entered a trap. Whiskers also said that the doors to all the apartments are open so that cats are not stuck in empty apartments. Usually, cats in this type of situation will travel out in about a two-block radius, Jessica Vigos, the executive director and founder of Whiskers told ABC4.com. They are terrified. They leave the property. However, not all cats react the same way. Some stay close by, and others come back on their own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reason we have traps set on site is because some of them will hunker down and hide on site, and some of them will leave the property and come back to the site once things are quiet, Vigos explained. They are compiling a list of missing cats with names, photos, last known location (apartment number), and identifying details like collars, microchips, or medical conditions. They also said that they will be sharing pictures with neighbors and volunteers in the area. PREVIOUSLY: Millcreek apartment complex fire leaves upwards of 50 people permanently displaced Whiskers is asking the community to keep an eye out for any missing cats, checking under porches, inside sheds, garages, crawl spaces, and other quiet places where a cat may hide. They suggest calling softly and looking for signs of movement, fur, or eyes reflecting light. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you see a cat, Whiskers is saying not to chase the animal. Instead, they are asking that you take a photo, note the location, and contact them immediately. These cats are loved family members. Your awareness could be the reason one of them makes it back home safely, they wrote in a social media post. If you live in the area and you see a cat, you can contact Whiskers at 385-429-0185. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. The City of Clayton announced that it will receive $75,000 from the Ohio EPA to improve its snow operations and reduce environmental impact. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] This funding will be used to install a new brine maker, which will allow the city to pre-treat roads and reduce overall salt usage. The City of Clayton is committed to continuously improving its snow operations by reducing costs, enhancing service delivery, and minimizing environmental impact, a city spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Currently, the city does not pre-treat roads, but the new brine production system will enable more precise control of the brine mixture, resulting in a higher-quality product for snow removal. It will also help decrease the risk of environmental contamination by making sure the mixture is more precise and consistent, the spokesperson said. TRENDING STORIES: The overall initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance service delivery and minimize the environmental impact of road salt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This funding is part of the Ohio EPAs H2Ohio Rivers Chloride Reduction Grant Program. The program is an expansion of Ohio Governor Mike DeWines H2Ohio initiative, which began in 2019. It provides grants for new salt application equipment technology or storage facility construction to help local governments reduce environmental impact. The Ohio EPA received over $1.9 million in settlement funds from a case involving Cargill, Inc. and Central Salt, LLC due to environmental contamination from salt runoff, the spokesperson said. These funds are being used to upgrade road salt application equipment and storage facilities in 32 municipalities throughout Ohio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recent water quality testing in Ohio has shown increased salt concentrations in waterways, primarily due to the use of road salt, according to the spokesperson. This rise in salt can release nutrients and metals from sediment, harming water quality and requiring extra treatment for drinking water facilities. With the new funding, Clayton aims to improve its snow operations while reducing its environmental footprint, contributing to the overall goals of the H2Ohio initiative to enhance water quality across the state. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] CANFIELD, Ohio (WKBN) Just as kids have a list of items to collect before heading back to school next month, teachers are no different. The Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio will host its second annual Teacher Flea Market on Friday. It gives teachers a second chance to pick up gently used items for their classrooms instead of having to pay full price for them. Organizers also say it offers current or retired instructors a way to share their materials with a younger generation so they can be used again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats really what the teachers are looking for is how do I take what I have loved for so long, where I have used it, Ive seen progress with my students, and find it a new good home, said Staci Direnzo with the Educational Service Center. Although only current or retired teachers are allowed to sell their items, the public is welcome to purchase things to use both in the classroom and even at home. The Teacher Flea will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Educational Service Center in Canfield. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Inland lakes panel discussion at Portage Yacht Club in Pinckney. July 28, 2025. Pictured left to right: Melissa DeSimone, Executive Director of Michigan Lakes and Streams Association; Charlotte Jameson, chief policy officer for the Michigan Environmental Council; State Rep. Jennifer Conlin (D-Ann Arbor Charter Township); Stat Rep. Noah Arbit (D-West Bloomfield); and Jeff Pierce, district supervisor of EGLEs Water Resources Unit. | Photo by Leah Craig/Michigan Advance With over 11,000 inland lakes, Michigans waterways are a central part of the states ecology, economy, and identity. And yet theyre also a growing source of concern. In response, state Representatives Jennifer Conlin (DAnn Arbor Charter Township) and Noah Arbit (DWest Bloomfield) assembled a panel of environmental experts Monday to address community concerns and launch a broader conversation about lake stewardship. The panel of experts consisted of Melissa DeSimone, executive director of the Michigan Lakes and Streams Association, the Michigan Environmental Councils Chief Policy Officer Charlotte Jameson, and Jeff Pierce, the district supervisor for the Water Resources Division of the Department of Environment Great Lakes, and Energy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conlin and Arbit have formed what theyve dubbed the inland lake caucus a title originally stemming from a lighthearted rivalry over which state House district has more lakes. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Arbit explained that Mondays forum was meant to emphasize local lakes and local voices. In May 2025, Conlin was one of the twelve state representatives to sponsor House Bill 4499, a pilot program to assess the effects of PFAS on individuals and the environment. The bipartisan effort also establishes funding to support research and testing related to PFAS exposure. Conlin said she also attended the Great Lakes State Legislative Council conference in Milwaukee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The community forum, however, was not overly concerned with PFAS and microplastics, with comments instead focused on algae, drawdowns, boating restrictions, and dams. One homeowner elaborated extensively on the green slime that was growing in the water near her home. The expert panel explained that the substance was most likely algae. The growth of algal blooms is often precipitated by increased phosphorus levels in the water, as phosphorus enhances vegetation growth. Algal blooms are nothing new for the Huron River Chain: The 2024 Annual Report found that there were high levels of phosphorus in Little Portage, Base Line, Tamarack, and Whitewood lakes. Indeed, reports from 2020 through 2024 indicate that most of the lakes in the Huron River Chain have had consistently elevated phosphorus levels over the past five years. Inland lakes panel discussion at Portage Yacht Club in Pinckney. July 28, 2025. Pictured left to right: State Rep. Jennifer Conlin (D-Ann Arbor Charter Township); Stat Rep. Noah Arbit (D-West Bloomfield); and Jeff Pierce, district supervisor of EGLEs Water Resources Unit. | Photo by Leah Craig/Michigan Advance The expert panel explained that theres no quick solution for algae growth, and Pierce urged citizens to not take this into their own hands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents were quick to point out that the heightened phosphorus levels are undoubtedly the result of lawn fertilizers. All you have to do is look around in the surrounding areas around Portage Lake and the canals and so on to see the pollution and whats going on, said Portage Lake resident Ty Cathy. Were not supposed to put anything in the lake, and most people are taking good care of it. Melissa DeSimone confirmed that position, noting that its important to limit the amount of fertilizer. If youre adding phosphorus to a freshwater ecosystem, youre going to get algal blooms, youre going to get weed growth, youre going to get all sorts of really concerning water quality issues, DeSimone said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In April 2024, Hamburg Township passed an ordinance prohibiting the use of fertilizer within 50 feet of lakes or streams. However, residents noted that some lakeshore homeowners arent adhering to this guideline. And yet, as Cathy pointed out, fertilizer trucks are a frequent sight around the lakes. And for some reason, our neighbors are not saying anything to our fellow neighbors, he added. I wish we could get that message across, and we need a little pressure on some of these people not to fertilize. The other pressing issue was the drawdown date. A drawdown is the intentional lowering of a lakes water level, conducted seasonally and mandated by local courts. Traditionally, the drawdown is slated for mid-October, though Portage Lake residents were informed that this years drawdown would begin on October 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drawdowns are an essential aspect of lake maintenance, providing an opportunity for aquatic weed control, shoreline repairs, flood prevention, and improvements to wildlife habitats. For lakefront homeowners, drawdowns mean limited lake access. The primary issue is the nature of October itself. Some residents protested the earlier drawdown, citing the past few years as being unseasonably warm. Others pointed to previous Octobers when the lakes froze over. In short, determining the right time to lower the water is complicated by Michigans unpredictable climate. Additionally, as DeSimone emphasized, the drawdown date is not mandated by environmental organizations, state environmental officials or the state Legislature, but rather by local courts. Many lakeshore homeowners are resistant to change, often operating under the belief that if something has worked in the past, theres no reason to alter it. However, as the Michigan Environmental Councils Jameson outlined, the environment itself is changing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Michigan, we have a steadily increasing amount of precipitation, and extreme storms are impacting how we manage our lakes and how we protect the wildlife that is also dependent upon the lakes, Jameson pointed out. As a result, she explained, these factors must be taken into consideration. I get weve been doing certain things certain ways for a long time, Jameson added. But things change, and we have to adapt. Environmental changes arent the only shifts impacting inland lakes. Many homeowners expressed dissatisfaction with the research and survey process, their chief grievance being the lack of substantive answers to their concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Such endeavors are typically a joint effort between state and federal funding. In March, the Trump administration announced that it was cancelling $1.7 billion in grants aimed at improving water and air quality. The cuts to environmental funding at the federal level mean that states are left scrambling to make up for lost funds. Conlin and Arbit plan to host a second forum this time in Arbits district on Monday, August 4. AUSTINTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Happening Tuesday is a chance to meet your local law enforcement. The Mahoning County Prosecutors Office and the Austintown Police Department will host a Meet and Greet during the Summer Concert Series at Austintown Township Park. The prosecutors office will be giving out free gun locks and attendees will have the chance to ask questions. The Meet and Greet will begin at 6:30 p.m. before the concert at 7 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. LISBON, Ohio (WKBN) A man who pleaded guilty to charges of attempted assault and arson will spend over a decade behind bars. Michael Stacy, 35, pleaded guilty to charges of attempted murder, attempted aggravated arson, abduction, and trespass in a habitation related to the brutal beating of an elderly family member. Stacy was sentenced to 13 to 18 years in prison, according to a release from the prosecutors office. He will also be required to register as both a violent offender and arson offender. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An investigation by the Wellsville Police Department determined that, on Oct. 17, 2024, Stacy assaulted a relative with a blunt object and ransacked the victims residence. Stacy also turned on the stoves gas burners and then fled the scene. The evidence and circumstances indicated that Stacy attempted to kill the victim, according to prosecutors. Thankfully, the victim survived despite receiving serious injuries. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. SALEM, Ohio (WKBN) Shopping for back-to-school supplies can be hectic and difficult for many families, so one local nonprofit is trying to help ease the burden for kids in Salem. Lisa Vittorio is the co-founder of the Brightside Project, and she says she is doing her part to help serve Columbiana County and rural Mahoning County students. The organization plans to distribute over 600 backpacks in August. These backpacks will be filled with essentials for students ranging from kindergarten to 12th grade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starting Tuesday, the Brightside Project is holding its Clothes and Shoes Voucher Program event. From 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., students only with Salem City Schools can receive a voucher that can be redeemed at the Salem Walmart. Vittorio says she loves the work she does and understands how much of a financial burden back-to-school shopping can be for families. The need is insane. I say this every school year, and I feel like this one. Were feeling the pressure a little bit more here at the Brightside, and I think it does play a part in the economy. The rising prices, each backpack going out the door is probably going to have about be valued at about $20 to $25 this year, but everything from the notebooks to the markers, glue sticks, it really adds up, Vittorio said. Aside from the voucher event on Tuesday, the organization is also holding its Backpack Pickup Event on August 7 and August 21 from 3 to 7 p.m. at its new facility in Salem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vittorio thanked the community for its support. So we couldnt do it without the support of the community. Like Dad and I, were just a two-man team. So without the community support, without their donations, without the funding, without the manpower, like, we would be nothing without them. So the great thing about Brightside is that its a community initiative that were all coming together to make sure our kids are well taken care of, she said. The event is available for all Columbiana County residents and rural Mahoning County students in the West Branch, Sebring, Jackson-Milton, South Range and Western Reserve districts. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. VIRGINIA BEACH (WAVY) The co-owner of a behavioral health practice in the Lynnhaven area of Virginia Beach said its been a nightmare dealing with TRICARE claims after Humana Military switched its claims processor to PGBA at the beginning of the year. Weve always had issues, but never to this degree, said Suzanna Myers in a Monday morning interview. She, her business partner and 12 other providers treat military kids with autism at Pennington Group Full Spectrum Services. Myers said the bureaucratic hassles have entered a new more frustrating phase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are seeing a lot of erroneous denials, she said. There has been a lot of confusion, and weve gotten a lot of mixed messages. Myers said the problems really began to spiral downward in January when Humana entered a contract with PGBA. She had a banking background before her son with autism inspired her to change careers. We have some very, very strange patterns of deposits [from Humana], Myers said. And when we have gotten paid, its been an administrative and accounting nightmare for us. Myers said about 95% of her practice is military families, with annual revenue about $1.5 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a couple hundred thousand dollars a month that is kind of in limbo, she said. My business partner and I actually issued loans to our providers using our own personal savings because it was just dire. People were not going to be able to keep a roof over their head or food on the table. So this has been very stressful. It was stressful enough for some of her staff to head for the door. I have lost two providers because of this, Myers said, adding that chasing down reimbursement from Humana is keeping her from her core mission. Personally, I love practicing and working hands-on with my patients. I was unable to do any work with my patients for the first four months of the year. 10 On Your Side reached out to Humana for comment and they did not immediately respond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to waiting for reimbursement, Myers said Humana recently sent a number of documents with patients private information to the wrong address, one her practice hasnt used for six years. If things dont improve, we will have to make some really difficult decisions because we have lost our trust in TRICARE and in Humana Military, Myers said. Meanwhile, Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-Va. Beach) announced Monday she wants to expand the TRICARE program. Kiggans is a veteran Navy helicopter pilot and mother of four. I understand and share the frustration of our local providers whove faced unacceptable delays in TRICARE reimbursements, Kiggans stated. These issues were caused by a technical error during Humana Militarys contract transition earlier this year. My office has spent over 50 hours working directly with Humana, TRICARE, and impacted providers to get claims resolved and ensure payments were made. We remain committed to holding contractors accountable and making sure our military families can access the care they need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kiggans wants to align TRICARE eligibility for dependents with the Affordable Care Act for civilians. The ACA permits dependents to remain on their parents plan until age 26. Currently, TRICARE permits coverage for dependents on parents plans only until 21. As a Navy veteran, military spouse and Mom, I know firsthand how much military families sacrifice, Kiggans said in a news release Monday afternoon. The fact that theyre forced to pay hundreds of dollars a month to keep their young adult children on TRICARE while civilians can keep theirs covered at no cost until age 26 is simply unfair. Im proud to support this bipartisan legislation to fix that. Our military families deserve the same peace of mind as every other American family especially when it comes to healthcare. Kiggans staff says the expansion of eligibility doesnt mean additional headaches for providers and patients. The Health Care Fairness for Military Families Act is about one thing: ensuring military families receive the same healthcare benefits as every other American family, a Kiggans spokesman stated. It does not impact payment systems, contractors, or claims processing in any way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kiggans office said her legislation, known as the Health Care Fairness for Military Families Act, has bipartisan support. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. LONG ISLAND, N.Y. (PIX11) A man accused of plotting to kidnap and murder a former business associate was indicted in court on Tuesday, according to the Nassau County District Attorney. 48-year-old Navdeep Singh, of Dix Hills, is accused of offering an individual $100,000 and 10 acres of land in India in exchange for kidnapping and murdering one of Singhs former business partners, according to the DA. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its alleged that Singh did business with the associate for several years through his construction company and had been in litigation for two years after being taken off a job Singh was managing. Between May 31 and June 7, Singh allegedly had been in communication with the would-be hitman, providing photos and information of the victim as well as cash. On June 7, Singh reportedly met with the individual and gave a $7,000 cash deposit for the plot. Singh was arrested by Nassau County Police that day. He was officially charged with multiple counts of conspiracy and criminal solicitation. If convicted, Singh could face up to 25 years in prison, according to the DA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spencer Gustafson is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered New York state and city news since 2023. See more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Four men have been sentenced to prison terms ranging from four years and nine months to 11 years after the theft of the gold treasure from the Celtic-Roman Museum in the southern Gwerman town of Manching. The regional court in the city of Ingolstadt just to the north-west of Manching was convinced of the defendants' guilt, even though they remained silent on all charges and their defence lawyers demanded acquittals. However, only three of the four defendants were convicted for the museum burglary in Manching. The presiding judge said that participation in this crime could not be proven for one defendant. As such, the defendant was acquitted in this case but convicted for other acts of the alleged gang. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four men were accused of a total of 20 burglaries or attempted burglaries since 2014 in Germany and Austria. In the other crimes, safes or cash machines were among the items broken into. With the conviction for aggravated gang theft, the court largely followed the prosecution's request, which had asked for prison sentences ranging from 6.5 to 12 years. The accused have been in pre-trial detention for about two years. The high-profile museum break-in took place at the Celtic-Roman Museum in Manching in the state of Bavaria on the night of November 22, 2022. Hundreds of 2,100-year-old Celtic gold coins vanished in a span of just minutes. The gang is said to have first damaged the town's telecommunications network in order to disable the alarm system at the museum. They then broke into the building and within minutes had opened the display case containing the coins and emptied it out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Archaeologists discovered the 483 coins and a larger gold nugget during excavations in Manching in 1999. It is considered the largest Celtic gold find of the 20th century. A few years later, the gold treasure became the flagship exhibit of the newly built museum in Manching. The prosecution estimates the material value of the approximately 3.7-kilogram gold treasure at 1.5 million ($1.7 million). However, scientists emphasize that the collection is irreplaceable. The majority of the loot remains missing to this day. The Bavarian State Criminal Police Office established a special commission after the break-in. Officers tracked down four men from northern Germany after securing discarded burglary tools near the museum and finding a DNA trace. The main suspect, a 48-year-old man from Plate, near the city of Schwerin, was sentenced to 11 years in prison. His co-defendants included two Schwerin residents, aged 44 and 52, who were sentenced to seven years and four years and nine months, and a 45-year-old man from Berlin, who received an eight-year prison sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Berlin man was found carrying several small gold nuggets at the time of his arrest. The nuggets were believed to be some 70 melted-down coins from the museum. All four have remained silent throughout the trial, which began in January at the Ingolstadt Regional Court. The court conducted hearings on more than 30 days over the course of half a year. Around 120 witnesses and experts were heard. LORAIN, Ohio (WJW) The Lorain County sheriff confirmed to the FOX 8 I-Team that detectives are investigating harassing phone calls and threatening messages aimed at police following last weeks gunfire that left an officer dead, two officers hurt and a suspect dead. Just hours after the shootings, one man called 911 again and again asking questions and taunting. I could also show up to your front door, the man told the dispatcher. I dont carry a gun. Im not a like you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community gathers for memorial of fallen officer Phillip Wagner One dispatcher told the man, if he calls again, he could face charges for abuse of an emergency line. Another person commented on a news story about the shootings by writing a direct threat that more officers could be shot. Sheriff Jack Hall told the I-Team that detectives are investigating multiple postings on social media. One of those subjects we believe is local, and actually, the others are all from out of state, Hall said. The sheriff tells us investigators already have asked for records from social media companies. Even asking for those records to be turned around quickly, trying to gather every clue about who is behind the postings online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators consider some of the calls and online postings to go beyond free speech, saying the comments are harassment and intimidation. Unwavering support for slain Lorain Officer Phillip Wagner Last Wednesday, police said a man ambushed officers who had simply stopped in a quiet spot for lunch, and that led to the shootout. Theres no information on these fake police officers quote unquote in the hospital that got shot, a caller told a 911 dispatcher. When the dispatcher informed the caller he was on an emergency line, the man said, prove it. The sheriff and Lorain police chief have said they have received overwhelming support, prayers and offers of help. The sheriff said law enforcement officers shouldnt face more risk to their lives than they already do because of mysterious strangers behind a phone or keyboard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lot of reasons why were looking into these situations is to, one, find answers to what happened last week in Lorain, the sheriff said. The second part of it is to prevent this from happening to anyone ever again. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. Peers in the House of Lords have been accused of trying to block key protections for millions of workers as they push through major changes to Labours Employment Rights Bill. The Lords last week voted in favour of several amendments brought forward by Conservative and Liberal Democrat peers which row back on reforms to zero-hours contracts, day-one protections and more. It comes as a blow to the government which pledged in its 2024 manifesto to end exploitative zero-hours contracts and sets up a showdown between the Lords and Commons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement General secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Paul Nowak said: the sight of Hereditary Peers voting to block stronger workers rights belongs in another century. Its plain wrong. Paul Nowak, general secretary of the TUC, accused Lords peers of doing the bidding of bad bosses (Peter Byrne/PA) (PA Archive) They are doing the bidding of bad bosses, he added, and encouraged the government to stand firm. Under the Lords amendments, the requirement for employers to offer zero-hours workers a contract would be changed to instead require the worker to ask for the arrangement. Protections against unfair dismissal from day one of employment were also amended, instead bringing the time up to six months. Legislation currently ensures the protections after two years of employment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were also several amendments to trade union laws voted in, including a requirement for members to actively opt into trade union political funds, rather than opt out. This came alongside another amendment to ensure the 50 per cent turnout threshold for industrial action is not repealed in the bill. The amendments were put forward by Tory peers Lord Hunt, shadow business minister, and Lord Sharpe, alongside Liberal Democrat Lord Goddard. The amendments set up a showdown between the Lords and Commons (Stefan Rousseau/PA) (PA Archive) Ministers will address the amendments when MPs return to Commons from summer recess at the start of September. The two houses will then continue to vote on the changes in a process known as parliamentary ping-pong before a finalised version of the bill is agreed upon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Responding to criticism, Lord Hunt said: All the evidence shows that workers value and support that flexibility and the diverse job opportunities it continues to create. The world of business which creates the wealth we need has repeatedly made it very plain that the Government's proposals go too far and jeopardise that vital flexibility. In too many respects the Government's Bill aims to give new powers to the trade unions as organisations, not to the workers themselves, but the Lords amendments would create a better balance. They will protect and create more jobs and serve the working people of Britain well. His comments were supported by Lord Sharpe. Lord Goddard was approached for comment. The Milwaukee LGBT Community Center is asking for community help against what it calls "a threat to our existence, programming and rich legacy." The center has recently lost two vital forms of federal funding, leaving a $900,000 shortfall in its $1.3 million annual operating budget. It's aiming to raise $540,000 within 12 months to ensure that the center can keep its doors open. "It is my absolute hope that we can sustain this organization, because it not only means a lot to me, but to the people who walk through these doors each and every day," said Ritchie T. Martin Jr., the center's executive director. The center lost a grant from the federal Office of Violence Against Women, which awarded some grants specifically for LGBT centers' programs. The office in May updated its grant guidelines after President Donald Trump's executive order targeting diversity, equity and inclusion programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The center also gets federal funding from the Victims of Crime Act. That money comes from fines and penalties collected in federal criminal court causes, not taxpayer dollars. Wisconsin's funding from the program dropped from $40 million to $13 million in 2024, Martin said. It's used to support the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center and other nonprofits throughout the state. The Milwaukee center received $400,000 from VOCA funding, he said. More: What to know about VOCA funding cuts for crime victim services The loss of funding may force staff cuts and service reductions, just as demand is surging, according to Martin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The more we see funding cuts, the more we will see programs across Milwaukee County disappear," Martin said. The center provides services for the LGBT community that include mental health counseling, senior and youth programming, a food pantry and access to a community closet. While LGBT people can visit the center for critical services, Martin said people also rely on it as somewhere to belong to. Without the center, he said, the LGBT community will face more depression, more anxiety and might feel socially isolated. "The community center is not just a service," he said. "It's a lifeline for some people." This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee LGBT Community Center raising money to ensure it stays open BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) Congressman Cleo Fields sharply criticized a newly passed federal bill, calling it damaging to Louisiana residents and favoring the wealthy at the expense of the poor. I really do not see how it is beautiful for Louisiana because of the impact it is going to have on the people of Louisiana, Fields said. He pointed to a $4.4 billion tax break for the wealthy included in the legislation, which also slashes more than $1 trillion in healthcare funding, potentially leaving millions without insurance. Fields said roughly 260,000 Louisiana residents could lose coverage, including 36,000 in his own district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The congressman also condemned a $1.1 billion proposed cut to public broadcasting, saying it would harm rural parishes in his district, where many residents rely on public media during hurricanes and other natural disasters. In response to the bill, Fields outlined three new proposals: a teacher loan forgiveness program for educators who serve eight years in Louisiana public schools, universal early childhood education starting at age two, and a measure to allow SNAP recipients to use benefits for grocery delivery in food deserts. Its not as controversial as it may sound, because I think we all want people to have healthy foods, Fields said. Meanwhile, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy defended the legislation, saying it would benefit workers, students, patients, and seniors across the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We help those on Medicaid by strengthening the program and ensuring that those on it receive the care they need, Cassidy said. For most seniors, we cut taxes and protected Social Security. We also included a $50 billion rural hospital fund to preserve access to care in rural areas. Cassidy added that he, President Trump, and fellow Republicans are united in putting Americans first through the bill. Were working together to secure these wins for people in Louisianaand theres more to come, he said. Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) The Louisiana Attorney Generals Office arrested a Slidell woman who is accused of Medicaid fraud. According to a news release, investigators were notified of a complaint from the Louisiana Department of Health accusing Candace Taylor, 35, of committing Medicaid Recipient Fraud. The complaint said Taylor underreported her income to receive Medicaid benefits. The AGs Office said that between 2020 and 2024, Taylor applied for and received Medicaid benefits. During that time, Taylors businesses reportedly generated over $9.5 million in revenue. In 2020, records show that Taylors account recorded deposits of over $480,000, as well as $45,000 in vehicle payments, multiple six-figure withdrawals for property purchases, cosmetic surgery, jewelry, and a $100,000 wire transfer for a 2022 Lamborghini Urus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, two months after buying the Lamborghini, Taylor contacted LDH to renew her benefits, claiming that her income was $2,000 per month, omitting the fact that she was a business owner. After a criminal investigation, agents secured an arrest warrant to arrest and book Taylor into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on charges of government benefits fraud. Attorney General Liz Murrill released the following statement regarding the matter. Public Service Announcement No, you cant buy a lambo and plastic surgery while receiving Medicaid benefits. Attorney General Liz Murrill Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A late-night traffic stop in Assumption Parish on May 17 ended with the arrest of a Louisiana woman on multiple charges. Arian Nicole Wiggins, 27, of Morgan City was initially charged with possession of Xanax (Alprazolam), possession of Adderall, sale, distribution or possession of a legend drug without a prescription, possession of Marijuana, operating a vehicle while intoxicated, expired motor vehicle inspection tag, possession of alcoholic beverages in a motor vehicle and driving on roadway laned for traffic. The Louisiana woman is facing multiple charges after a traffic stop. (Assumption Parish Sheriffs Office) She was booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center and later released on May 20 after posting a $70,000 commercial bond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement APSO said a deputy saw Wiggins driving west on LA 70 in Pierre Part and initiated a traffic stop after seeing her commit a traffic violation. After speaking with Wiggins, the deputy thought further investigation was needed in this case. Her vehicle was searched, which led to the discovery of multiple controlled dangerous substances. APSO said they found two legend drugs, including 11 doses of Xanax, 59 doses of Adderall, as well as three grams of marijuana. They said 13 doses of LSD or Lysergic Acid and 3.77 grams of methamphetamine were also seized. 2 taken to hospital after shooting in Baton Rouge, officials say Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to APSO, her BAC was 0.00, but blood was obtained as she displayed signs of intoxication. The Louisiana State Police Crime Lab confirmed these substances, and Wiggins was arrested again on Monday, July 28, in Napoleonville. She was charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of LSD (Lysergic Acid). According to jail records, Wiggins remains in jail on $100,000 bond. Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. Dr. Kris Bryant, the associate medical director at the Louisville health department and a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Norton Childrens Hospital. (Screenshot) Louisville has confirmed a second case of the highly contagious measles, bringing the total cases in Kentucky to 14. Dr. Kris Bryant, the associate medical director at the Louisville health department and a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Norton Childrens Hospital, said the latest patient is a known contact with the citys first case of 2025, which was reported in mid July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This individual has been in quarantine since becoming aware of their exposure, and so there are no new public exposures as a result of this case, Bryant said during a Tuesday press conference. The citys latest case, which health officials confirmed Monday, is unrelated to an outbreak in central Kentucky, she said. An outbreak is defined as three or more related cases. Of the 14 cases across Kentucky, 13 were in unvaccinated individuals and one was in a person who only received part of the recommended vaccine series, Bryant said. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the two-dose measles vaccination series for children 12-15-months-old and then at 4-6-years-old. One infected person can infect 9 in 10 unprotected people around them, the CDC says, making measles extremely contagious. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a rash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling and death. Three people have died from measles in the United States in 2025, according to the CDC. Measles has made a comeback in Kentucky and beyond as routine vaccinations have declined. A school immunizations survey for the 2024-2025 school year shows that about 87% of Kentucky kindergarteners are fully vaccinated against measles, which is lower than the national average of 93%. We encourage everyone to protect themselves with vaccination, Bryant said. If you are a parent with a child heading back to school, please make an appointment with your childs pediatrician or primary care provider. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Context: The attached video initially aired on July 24, 2025. TOPEKA (KSNT) Family of a man who was killed in July as part of a Topeka child abduction case have released his obituary. Police say Sean E. Thornton, 55, was killed earlier this month alongside his daughter, 29-year-old Ashley T. Brown, in a double-homicide and kidnapping case out of Topekas Oakland neighborhood. Family and friends of Thornton are set to honor his memory through a funeral service in early August in nearby Tecumseh. Sean Thornton (right). (Photo Courtesy/Tommy Peterson) Topeka police address kidnapping, killings in press conference Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 27 News talked to Michael Large, a cousin and close friend of Thornton, on July 29 about the situation. He shared his thoughts along with the obituary details for Thornton. I dont even know how to really put that into words, Large said when asked how he feels in the aftermath of Thorntons death. I honestly dont know. Torrent of emotions over the last week. Sean Thornton was born to Bill and Brenda Thornton on Aug. 21, 1969, according to his obituary. He later attended Highland Park High School before finding a job at Topekas Blue Cross & Blue Shield where he worked for more than 30 years. Topeka police set to hold Crime Summit Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sean Thornton is described as a man of deep faith in his obituary and regularly attended the Sovereign Grace Baptist Church in Tecumseh. He had a kind and generous soul and went out of his way to help those around him. He was loved by all who knew him and took genuine joy in helping others. His warm heart and steadfast loyalty made a lasting impact on everyone around him. No words can truly capture the loss of such a good man. Sean Eugene Thornton will be missed and loved forever by those who were blessed to know him. Sean E. Thornton obituary excerpt Sean Thornton is survived by his son Aaron Barnshaw, his parents, his sister Patricia Boos along with a niece, nephew and grandchild, Zabe Mendez. A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Aug. 9 at Sovereign Grace Baptist Church at 321 Stanton Road in Tecumseh. His service will be held at 11 a.m. on the same day. Kirklands Home set to exit West Ridge Mall For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) Conservation efforts are now being forced on the Great Salt Lake as water levels drop to a low that has not been seen in two years. During a press conference on Tuesday, Great Salt Lake Commissioner Brian Steed reported the south arm of the lake has hit 4,192 feet and the north arm is at 4,191.6 feet. The current levels are roughly six feet below is minimum healthy level, which is 4,198 feet above sea level. I wouldnt be surprised to see it fall another foot by the time were done, Steed said. In truth, though, were sitting at a really scary low level. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hitting 4,192 feet triggers a change in policy. In his question-and-answer session with Utah reporters, Steed explained 4,192 feet is considered to be the top part of really bad, and reaching those levels is not great news. So, at those levels, mineral companies have to severely reduce the amount of water consumption that theyre taking out of the lake. Steed also shared his wishes to be able to wave a magic wand to make the water levels rise to 4,195 feet, adding, Thats a long way from where we are. According to Grow the Flow, an organization that tracks water levels of the lake, the decline is already reducing precipitation, polluting Utahs air and threatening the states water supply. To help with efforts underway to protect the Great Salt Lake, a $53 million grant was recently made available to fund conservation projects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a press release , the Office of the Great Salt Lake Commissioner said that the funds are being provided in coordination with the Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. Officials said the funds will be used for ecosystem and habitat restoration projects and voluntary system conservation projects that reduce consumptive water losses. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) Louisiana small businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit organizations have an opportunity to receive free legal services through the Russell J. Stutes Small Business and Community Development Clinic at LSU Law. Under the supervision of licensed faculty, upper-level LSU Law students will begin working with about one dozen small businesses and nonprofit clients in the fall semester that begins on Aug. 18. Clients selected for the clinic can receive legal guidance in areas such as: Business entity counseling and formation Drafting of bylaws, LLC operating agreements, and corporate governance documents Preparation of tax-exempt applications (IRS Form 1023) Understanding and managing state and federal filing and reporting requirements Basic employment law issues Contract drafting and review Website terms of service and privacy policy creation Copyright and trademark matters Regulatory compliance Business permitting and licensing Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LSU Law professor and clinic director Jordan Engelhart said, This is a great opportunity for small businesses and nonprofits to start out on the right foot and address potential issues before they become costly problems. Through our students work in the clinic, we are hoping to help level the playing field. The clinic aims to support underserved business owners and nonprofit leaders by helping them navigate complex legal frameworks that are essential to establishing and sustaining their operations. Many Louisiana small businesses and nonprofits are at a marked disadvantage because they dont have the resources to access the type of helpful legal assistance that our students will provide in the Small Business and Community Development Clinic, said LSU Law Professor Jordan Engelhart, who directs the clinic. This initiative not only provides valuable legal resources to the community, but it also gives LSU Law students real-world experience working with clients and addressing real legal needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Currently, the clinic is seeking clients who are unable to reasonably afford the legal assistance they need. Latest News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. Cranes prepare to install a stretch of pipeline as part of the Navajo-Gallup Water Pipeline in a photo taken February 2022. (Photo courtesy Bart Deming's July presentation) New Mexico Democratic U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Lujan is calling on President Donald Trump to fund the next phase of a massive water pipeline in northwest New Mexico, saying failing to do so would violate Navajo water rights and could cause the project to fail completely. Failure to complete the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project also threatens to leave the City of Gallup with a dwindling groundwater supply, city leaders told state lawmakers recently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps budget proposal contains no money for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project, an omission for which Lujan sharply criticized a federal Interior official earlier this month. He noted that 250,000 Navajo people are relying on the projects completion. On Tuesday, Lujans office told Source New Mexico that the president needs to provide $175 million for the project this fiscal year to keep the project on track. Unfortunately, this Administration has failed to prioritize the project, and without the necessary funding, it risks becoming the first Indian Water Rights Settlement to fail. Im doing everything in my power to ensure that does not happen, Lujan said in an emailed statement. A multi-agency effort to divert water from the San Juan River to the Navajo Nation and areas nearby has been in the works since the 1970s; the state, Navajo Nation and federal Interior Department in 2010 finalized the Nations water rights settlement, a key component of which was the 300-mile pipeline. The 2009 law that authorized the pipelines construction required that all components be completed by December 2024. But in September, then-Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland approved an extension of the completion deadline until December 2029, an extension the state, tribe and federal agency agreed to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They justified the deadline extension to allow time to investigate the feasibility of incorporating the water storage and intake features once used at the recently demolished San Juan Generating Station. In the 15 years since the federal government authorized the pipeline, Gallups annual groundwater production has dropped from about 3,900 acre-feet to about 2,900 acre-feet, due to declining water levels. Over the last decade, its groundwater levels have dropped about 200 feet, requiring deeper and deeper wells, according to city and federal officials. On the Navajo Nation, more than 40% of households haul water to meet their daily needs. The funding still hangs in the balance. Bart Deming, a construction engineer with the Department of Reclamation, told state lawmakers July 17 that an estimated funding gap of roughly $600 million remains. Current legislation authorizes up to $1.6 billion for the project, but recent estimates suggest $2.2 billion is needed, Deming told the interim Indian Affairs Committee of the Legislature at a meeting at the Pinedale Chapter of the Navajo Nation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So theres still a challenge there, he told lawmakers. The delays and costs have put Gallup city officials in a precarious position, officials told lawmakers at the meeting. The new pipeline promises a way for the city to no longer rely on 15 water wells that need to be drilled increasingly deep into the aquifer. So far, the city has paid more than $58 million into the project and not received a single drop of water, according to the citys presentation. The original contract put the city on the hook for $57 million. Now, amid the extension and the delays, its facing down $10 million bills annually until the projects completion, money that it could be using instead to maintain its wells or drill new ones. The City of Gallup cannot afford to pay this amount of money and maintain its water and wastewater systems, according to the citys presentation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City Manager Frank Chiapetti told lawmakers that the city initially faces several options ranging from best to unthinkable. The best option entails all debt for future costs forgiven. A livable option is to cap the citys share of the projects cost at $76 million. But other scenarios include nuclear, which would mean the city would pull out of the project; legal, wherein the city sues for alleged breach of contract; and unthinkable, in which the city cant pay for any new capital projects at least 10 years and is driven into bankruptcy. A bill Lujan introduced this year would, among other provisions, cap the city of Gallups share of the cost at $76 million. The Project Construction Committee, which reviews contracts and other matters related to the pipeline, is scheduled to meet Thursday for the third time this year. Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna will attempt to force a House vote on a congressional stock trading ban in September, creating a new headache for Speaker Mike Johnson when members return to Washington from their summer recess. The Florida lawmaker said Tuesday she plans to file a discharge petition at that time seeking a floor vote on legislation written by Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) that would end members ability to trade individual securities. Itll happen as soon as we get back, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luna is moving forward with the highly sensitive effort after internal talks over proposals to curb lawmaker trading have gone sideways on Capitol Hill, with Republicans themselves at loggerheads over the way forward after months of talks. The issue, however, is gaining new momentum among a bipartisan faction of members who argue a crackdown is necessary to root out corruption. The House Ethics Committee concluded last week that Rep. Mike Kellys wife bought shares in the steelmaker Cleveland-Cliffs after Kellys office learned the Commerce Department was launching an investigation that could result in tariffs benefiting the company before notice of the investigation was made public. Kelly, a Pennsylvania Republican, is a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee. House Republicans also have privately raised concerns about Rep. Rob Bresnahan, another Pennsylvania Republican who has been a prolific stock trader after promising on the campaign trail to push a trading ban in Congress. Bresnahan has since introduced his own legislation and argues someone else manages the portfolio. A discharge petition allows a majority of the House to sidestep the majority party leaderships control of the floor agenda. Forcing a vote requires gathering signatures from 218 House members, but successful discharges are rare because it is considered a serious breach of party loyalty for majority members to sign them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luna already successfully pursued a discharge this year, over an effort to secure proxy voting for parents of newborns. But she agreed to back off her push after President Donald Trump intervened. The uproar adds to the politically explosive challenges Johnson will face when lawmakers return from their recess. Hes already facing the threat of a separate discharge petition from Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) that would force a vote on a bipartisan bill to release Jeffrey Epstein-related documents. A spokesperson for Johnson did not respond to a request for comment. A bipartisan group of House members including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) have been trying to chart a way forward on a stock trading ban for months without a resolution, according to five people granted anonymity to discuss the private conversations. They have been unable to settle on a compromise between several competing bills, including Burchetts legislation and a separate, more comprehensive bipartisan bill from Reps. Chip Roy (R-Texas) and Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Members are already bound by a 2012 law that bans trading on congressional insider knowledge and requires lawmakers to report their trades. Democrats have wielded the issue as a political cudgel against the GOP after public disclosures revealed that Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) purchased stocks during a tariff-induced dip in the market, only for those stocks to later rise in value. But pursuing a total ban has been divisive, with many members in both parties quietly concerned about the prospect of divesting significant portfolios with potential tax implications. There are also serious doubts about whether a bill that the House passes could be enacted by the Senate, where there are even more widespread concerns. Given those sensitivities, leaders of both parties have in recent years moved to keep the issue off the House floor, where members would be hard-pressed to cast a vote against it. Johnson and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi expressed skepticism of the idea of banning member trades before later offering guarded support. Pelosi, however, never allowed legislation to move that would prohibit the practice; so far, neither has Johnson. Lunas effort promises to sidestep leaders and force the issue. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace (R) is preparing to hit the road in South Carolina as she continues to tease a run for governor. Mace said she is launching what her team calls the MOTHER OF ALL TOWN HALLS, a statewide series of events that will be held throughout August. No exact dates or locations have been made public. No questions off limits, no topics too tough, Sydney Long, Maces communications director, said in a statement to News 2. Shell be traveling across South Carolina to speak directly with residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The third-term congresswoman has faced pressure in recent months to meet face-to-face with her constituents in South Carolinas First Congressional District through traditional town halls calls she often rejected due to safety concerns, though she has participated in various speaking engagements throughout the state. Mace is widely expected to join the already crowded Republican field seeking to succeed term-limited Gov. Henry McMaster in Columbia. In a weekend Fox News interview, Mace said that she may be forced to enter the race because the state has gone woke. I will be making a decision over the next couple of days about my future, she said July 28 on Fox News Weekend. I believe I may be forced to run for governor because I cant watch my beautiful red state of South Carolina go woke. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 15-second video posted to her personal X account late Monday night featured scenes of the Lowcountry followed by clips of California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz in the Palmetto State with the words: The left is coming from South Carolina. Who can stop them? It then cuts to audio of President Donald Trump calling Mace a fighter. An endorsement from the president could prove pivotal in the race, according to a late July survey from the South Carolina Policy Council in which more than half of respondents said they would be more likely to vote for the candidate who has Trumps support. The same poll showed Mace with a one-point edge in the GOP contest, although a majority of voters remained undecided. Historically, Maces relationship with the president has been complicated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was critical of how he handled the Jan. 6 Capitol attack, and he endorsed her primary opponent, Katie Arrington, in 2022. Mace ended up winning that contest with 8 points. Last January, though, Mace announced she would back Trump for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024. He later returned the favor, calling Mace a strong, conservative voice for South Carolina ahead of last Junes primary, which she won by 27 points. She has since become a staunch defender of much of the presidents agenda, from praising U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcements (ICE) deportation tactics to suggesting South Carolina construct its own version of Alligator Alcatraz, a migrant detention center in the Florida Everglades. Mace, who told the Associated Press in January that she was exploring a possible run, has been dropping hints of her impending decision and ramping up attacks against her potential primary opponents namely Attorney General Alan Wilson for months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to Wilson, Mace would so far face Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman, and state Sen. Josh Kimbrell in the race for the Republican nomination for governor. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), who has teased a run for governor in South Carolina, is leading a hypothetical 2026 GOP gubernatorial field in new polling. The survey from the nonpartisan research organization South Carolina Policy Council found Mace with 16 percent support from Republican-identifying voters 1 point ahead of state Attorney General Alan Wilson (R), who launched his campaign last month. Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette (R) earned 8 percent support, Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) snagged 6 percent and state Sen. Josh Kimbrell earned 3 percent. At the same time, a little more than half of respondents 52 percent were still undecided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I will be making a decision over the next couple of days about my future, Mace told Fox News over the weekend. I believe I may be forced to run for governor because I cant watch my beautiful red state of South Carolina go woke. Its gone woke over the last couple of years. On Monday, she posted a graphic promising a special announcement and big things ahead. Mace would enter a crowded GOP primary to succeed term-limited Gov. Henry McMaster (R) in the Palmetto State, but she framed the election as a potential faceoff against Wilson. This is a two-man race, if I get in, between me and Alan Wilson, the South Carolina attorney general, who likes to put pedophiles on trial and give them one day in jail, the congresswoman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wilson in a statement called the jabs categorically false and hit back by labeling Mace a liar who will do anything to get attention to distract from her liberal voting record. Mace flipped South Carolinas 1st Congressional District to GOP control in 2020, and she won reelection by double digits last year. A staunch supporter of President Trump, Mace backed him in the 2024 GOP presidential primary over her fellow South Carolinian, former Gov. Nikki Haley (R), who has notably endorsed Norman in the gubernatorial race. On the Democratic side, 83 percent in the new South Carolina Policy Council poll were undecided, with potential contenders scoring just 5 percent support or less. Democratic state Rep. Jermaine Johnson launched an exploratory committee for the 2026 race last month. Cook Political Report rates the open race as solid Republican, and whoever wins the Republican primary next year is seen as the heavy favorite to win the November election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The poll of 1,200 registered voters statewide, conducted by Targoz Market Research from July 21 to 25, has a margin of error of 2.77 percentage points. Norman had not yet launched when the poll was being conducted. Updated at 5:31 p.m. EDT Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. In recent years, Oklahoma Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters has cultivated a reputation as a right-wing Christian nationalist even some Republicans have expressed discomfort with his radicalism prompting discussion among legislators in the state about possible impeachment proceedings. But now the radical activist is facing a different kind of problem. NBC News reported: A sheriffs office in Oklahoma is investigating an incident during a state Board of Education meeting last week that reportedly involved images of naked women on the state school superintendents office television. The images were seen during the boards executive session, held in Superintendent Ryan Walters office, The Oklahoman newspaper of Oklahoma City reported, citing members Ryan Deatherage and Becky Carson, who attended the meeting. Neither MSNBC nor NBC News has independently confirmed the members' complaints. Its worth noting that both Deatherage and Carson were nominated by the states conservative Republican governor, Kevin Stitt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, Walters isnt exactly benefiting from an outpouring of support from his fellow GOP officials. Two leading Republicans in the Legislature, including Senate President Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, issued a statement late last week on a separate investigation into the matter. This is a bizarre and troubling situation that raises serious questions about the events and what took place during yesterdays executive session at the Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting, Paxton said. Board members accounts, he added, paint a strange, unsettling scene that demands clarity and transparency. State House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, whos also a Republican, called the allegations serious and said that an expeditious third-party review is warranted. For his part, Walters has denied any wrongdoing and complained about politically motivated attacks and desperate lies. He added in a statement published to social media, Any suggestion that a device of mine was used to stream inappropriate content on the television set is categorically false. I have no knowledge of what was on the TV screen during the alleged incident, and there is absolutely no truth to any implication of wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And if Walters were a widely respected public servant, whod demonstrated a deep commitment to improving the public education system, and whod cultivated a deep well of credibility and support, he might be able to draw on that backing now and ask for the benefit of the doubt. But thats plainly not the case. On the contrary, Walters is effectively a far-right internet troll who managed to become the most powerful education official in a state with 4 million people. His greatest hits collection is not short. A state requirement that Oklahoma educators keep Christian Bibles in every classroom and incorporate his preferred holy text into public school curricula? That was Walters. Threatening the teaching licenses of school teachers who resisted his demands for Bible lessons? That was Walters, too. Walters has called an Oklahoma teachers' union a terrorist organization. Hes partnered with a far-right propaganda outlet, bringing its materials into classrooms. He pushed a social studies curriculum guidance that directed educators to push pro-Trump conspiracy theories about the 2020 presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At one point last fall, as my MSNBC colleague Jahan Jones noted, Walters even wanted to require schools to show children a video of him praying for Donald Trump though the state attorney generals office said that couldnt happen. Its against this backdrop that the radical official is suddenly facing a new and unusual kind of mess. Watch this space. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com The official line from Donald Trump and his team has long been that the president and Jeffrey Epstein had a falling out several years ago. The reason, however, for their split hasnt been altogether consistent. There have been some suggestions of late, for example, that the Republican banned the late financier for being a real creep, while others have pointed to a falling out over a real estate deal. In recent days, however, the president has been leaning into the idea that Epstein did something inappropriate by hiring people who used to work for him. Just as a political matter, its difficult to understand why Trump would be wedded to this line. After all, itd be to his benefit to instead say something like, The more I got to know Epstein, the more I came to realize that I didnt want anything to do with such a lowlife, so I cut ties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But, no. The president instead has committed to a wildly different line, in which he ended his friendship with Epstein because the late millionaire sex offender tried to poach members of his staff. In a Q&A with reporters aboard Air Force One on Tuesday afternoon, Trump not only doubled down on the line, he also elaborated on a specific name for the first time. He took people, Trump said, referring to Epstein. And because he took people, I said, Dont do it anymore. You know, they work for me. And he took beyond that, he took some others. Once he did that, that was the end of him. When they steal people, I dont like it. Moments later, the president was asked whether the employees in question were young women. After initially responding that he didnt want to say, the Republican soon after said, The answer is yes. Trump elaborated: People who work in the spa great spa, one of the best spas in the world, at Mar-a-Lago and people were taken out of the spa, hired by him. In other words, gone. And other people would come and complain, This guy is taking people from the spa. I didnt know that. And then when I heard about it, I told him, I said, Listen, we dont want you taking our people, whether it was spa or not spa. I dont want you taking people. And he was fine. And then not too long after that, he did it again, and I said, Outta here. It was at that point when a different reporter asked whether Virginia Giuffre one of the most prominent victims of Epsteins sexual abuse, who died by suicide a few months ago was one of the poached employees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uh, I dont know, Trump initially responded, before quickly adding, I think she worked at the spa. I think so. I think that was one of the people. He stole her. And by the way, she had no complaints about us, as you know, none whatsoever. The on-the-record comments clearly suggested that the president was aware of Giuffre who was a teenager when she worked in the spa at Trumps Mar-a-Lago and she was one of the employees Trump was annoyed to see go after Epstein stole her. If White House officials were hoping to see the story start to fade away, those hopes were dashed aboard Air Force One. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Rachel Maddow shares New York Times reporting that Donald Trump has taken nearly a billion dollars from taxpayer money meant for modernizing the U.S. nuclear arsenal, and is instead directing some of those funds to refurbish the Air Force One style plane gifted to him from Qatar, which he intends to keep in his presidential library after potentially using it as his presidential plane once it is brought up to spec. The Jeffrey Epstein scandal would probably be less of a political fiasco for Donald Trump if the president were able to stick to a simple, accurate and compelling defense. Alternatively, the Republican could try saying far less about the controversy, which might help keep the story off front pages. But Trump has instead chosen the worst possible path for himself: He just keeps talking about it; his rhetoric is making matters worse; and the result is a president who, in a rather literal sense, cant seem to help himself. On Monday, the Republican sat alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and fielded a series of questions about the late millionaire sex offender, and each answer seemed to get progressively worse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A possible pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell: Asked whether hes prepared to rule out a pardon for Epsteins convicted associate, common sense mightve suggested that the president close that door. He did largely the opposite, telling reporters, Well, Im allowed to give her a pardon, but nobodys approached me with it. Nobodys asked me about it. He added, Right now, it would be inappropriate to talk about it, while talking about it. His alleged appearances in the Epstein files: Amid recent reporting that the president received a briefing about his name appearing in the Epstein files, Trump replied, "Well, I havent been overly interested in it. You know, its a hoax thats been built up way beyond proportion. I can say this: Those files were run by the worst scum on earth. They were run by [former FBI Director James] Comey. They were run by [former Attorney General Merrick] Garland. They were run by [former President Joe] Biden and all of the people that actually ran the government, including the autopen. ... They can easily put something in the files thats a phony. At face value, none of this made any sense Trumps political foes wouldnt have manufactured bogus evidence, inserted it into files, and then left it on Attorney General Pam Bondis desk but it sounded like the sort of thing someone might say if they were genuinely afraid of potentially incriminating evidence in a group of files. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His falling out with Epstein: The explanation surrounding Trumps relationship with Epstein has been a moving target, with some allegations that Trump banned Epstein from Mar-a-Lago for being a real creep, while others have pointed to a falling out over a real estate deal. The president offered a third possibility on Monday, stating Epstein did something inappropriate by hiring people who worked for Trump. The island invitation: As The New York Times summarized: President Trump said on Monday that he had never had the privilege of visiting Jeffrey Epsteins private Caribbean island because he had turned down an invitation from the financier. As part of a continued effort by Mr. Trump to distract, deny and deflect from his long-running relationship with Mr. Epstein, the president vigorously denied that he had ever visited Mr. Epsteins private islands in the Caribbean, while in the same breath baselessly accusing his predecessor, former President Bill Clinton, of visiting the islands, his latest bid at conspiracy deflection. I never went to the island, and Bill Clinton went there supposedly a number of times, Trump said, referring to locations in the U.S. Virgin Islands where Epstein allegedly trafficked underage girls for sex. I never had the privilege of going to his island, and I did turn it down, but a lot of people in Palm Beach were invited to his island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were a great many ways the Republican couldve talked about this without using the word privilege, but this was the message the president chose to deliver to the world. The Epstein scandal has become quicksand for Trump for a variety of reasons including his own misguided rhetoric. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com WINTERSET, Iowa A Special Election for the Auditors Seat is scheduled for late next month in Madison County. However, a lone resident has filed an objection to it. A small group of county leaders will now meet on Tuesday morning to discuss and vote on its validity. Meanwhile, the first candidate has declared their intent to run. It is just the latest bump in the road for the seat, which has been marred by much controversy and confusion over the past several months. Timeline: Tuesday, May 6: Elected Auditor Teri Kaczinski announced her resignation Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Monday, June 30: Tuesday, July 3: Public interviews are conducted for Auditor Thursday, July 3: Matthew Schwarz was appointed in a 2-1 vote by the Board of Supervisors Friday, July 4: Auditor Teri Kaczinskis resignation takes effect Monday, July 7: Matthew Schwarz is sworn in as Auditor, an effort to collect signatures to petition for a Special Election is announced The newly-appointed Madison County Auditor, Matthew Schwartz is sworn in. Wednesday, July 16: A paperwork error is brought to light: A notice of the Auditors appointment lacked a mandated notice of the publics right to petition for a Special Election. Auditor Matthew Schwarz is instructed to physically leave the Auditors office by County Attorney Stephen Swanson after Schwarz reportedly instructed his staff to post a public notice online that stated his office was vacant due to the paperwork error. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thursday, July 17: A petition to hold a Special Election for the Auditors seat was officially filed. Tuesday, July 22: Winterset resident Marisa Schneider files an objection to the Special Election and makes a public comment regarding the issue. Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Heather Stancil and Attorney Swanson get into a public spat over the Auditors vacancy filing. The board votes 2-1 to re-establish Schwarz as temporary County Auditor and not have him re-sworn. The Board approves a petition for the Special Election, and a date is set. Objection: I have no problem with the actual signatures or those that signed the petition. I respect their right to do so, wrote Schneider in her filing contesting the petition, which WHO 13 obtained from the county. My objection is based on the fact that the petition submitted July 17, 2025, were collected while the office of Auditor was vacant and prior to the appointment to fill that vacancy. Contest-of-PetitionDownload Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schneider pointed to lowa Code, which designates that citizens have 14 days after an appointment to collect and file signatures. Section 69.14A{2}b states, a signature shall not be considered valid if the signature is dated prior to the date on which the appointment was made. Therefore, signatures gathered before the appointment are not valid, and the petition should be considered untimely and legally insufficient, Schneider argued. I respectfully request that this objection be reviewed in accordance with lowa Code, and that the petition be declared invalid. However, County Attorney Stephen Swanson previsouly told WHO 13, and the Board in a public meeting, that he had checked with the Secretary of States Office after the paperwork error came to light, and since the signatures had been collected in good faith based off the public understanding that the Auditor had been appointed and sworn in, the permitted date for collecting signtures would be allowed to be backdated to July 7, when Schwarz was sworn in. The most recent public notice on the Countys website states the Acting County Treasurer Kylee Barber, County Attorney Swanson, and BOS Chair Stancil will meet in the Auditors Office on Tuesday, July 29 at 10 a.m. to discuss and vote on the validity of the objection of the submission of signatures for petition for the County Auditors Special Election. The meeting is open to the public. According to the Madison County Elections Deputy, the process will be followed as outlined in Iowa Code 44.7. The County Attorney, County Treasurer, and Board Chair are required to review the objection, and a majority decision is final. If any of the three members are not able to participate, their place will be taken by another elected official. Petition: The filing to petition for a Special Election for Madison County Auditor. 1,457 citizens signed the petition for a Special Election and it was filed on July 17. It was accepted at the Board of Supervisors meeting last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a public notice that was posted on the Madison County government website, candidates can file through 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 26, with polling locations to be announced at a later date. Absentee voting will be available in the Auditors office and by mail. Candidates: Candidates for the Madison County Auditor special election on August 26th, 2025, may file their candidacy paperwork with the Auditors Office at any time during business hours until 5 p.m. Friday, August 1. There are no primary elections for special partisan elections. Political parties (Republican and Democratic) must nominate candidates by county convention, and candidates who wish to appear without any affiliation must be nominated by petition, according to Madison County Elections Deputy Mikayla Simpson. For more on the candidate filing requirements, review the below release from Elections Deputy Simpson: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Candidate-filing-informationDownload No candidates had filed as of Monday afternoon, according to Elections Deputy Simpson. However, Michelle Brant, who most recently served as Board Clerk in the County Auditors office, announced her intent to run on Monday afternoon. I am running No Party because I believe that Madison County voters have had enough polarization from local politics, and that a true moderate who is fair and honest needs to be running our Auditors office, she said in a news release. As I have said time and again, I want to serve all Madison County residents and protect our county from missteps. Press-Release-Auditor-2025Download Michelle Brant, who most recently served as Board Clerk in the County Auditors office, has announced her intent to run for Madison County Auditor. Brant was one of several candidates interviewed for the position before Schwartz was appointed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WHO 13 reached out to Temporary Auditor Schwarz on Monday afternoon to inquire if he intended to run in the Special Election. He did not immediately respond. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. The right-wing commentariat is using Mondays deadly mass shooting in Manhattan, in which a gunman shot and killed four people, to discredit the candidacy of mayoral front-runner Zohran Mamdani. The attacks ran the gamut, from mischaracterizations of the Democratic nominees agenda to plain bigotry. Curiously, many attempts to use Mondays tragedy against Mamdani also treat the Democratic nominee as if he were the current mayor and as if the violence did not occur under public safety policies already in place. Several prominent conservatives have attempted to scapegoat Mamdani in light of a defund the police stance he does not espouse. Anti-trans activist Riley Gaines posted on X: Do you not realize how terrifying it is this is happening in a city where the mayoral candidate wants to defund the police? Pro-Trump podcaster Benny Johnson wrote: REMINDER: Communist Zohran Mamdani wants to defund the police. No cops rushing injust social workers trying to reason with gunmen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These attempts to pin the shooting on Mamdani misrepresent the candidates agenda and public comments on public safety. Johnson, for instance, pointed to Mamdanis (now much-screenshotted) 2020 tweet in support of defunding the police, whereas Mamdani stated clearly during the Democratic primary, I will not defund the police and says he supports maintaining the current size of the police force. Mamdani proposes creating a Department of Community Safety, separate from the New York Police Department, which he says will reduce strain on police officers and free up NYPD resources to increase clearance rates for major crimes. As news of the shooting broke, Fox News columnist David Marcus also leveled a criticism that misses the mark, considering Mamdani is not the current occupant of Gracie Mansion. Marcus took to X to write, Can somebody in Uganda please wake Zohran up? A cop is dead. (Mamdani, who was born in Uganda, announced last weekin a video humorously preempting right-wing smearsthat he would be traveling to the country in a personal capacity and plans to return this week.) Others resorted to bigoted comments about Mamdanis background. For instance, Laura Loomer, the MAGA social media personality (who wields considerable influence over the administration of President Donald Trump), baselessly asserted Monday that the gunman was a Mamdani supporter, writing, [Mamdani] is inspiring a generation of pro-Islamic cop killers. This is why you dont elect Muslim immigrants to office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani, for his part, posted a statement promptly Monday evening, thanking first responders and writing, Im heartbroken to learn of the horrific shooting in midtown and I am holding the victims, their families, and the NYPD officer in critical condition in my thoughts. On Tuesday morning, Mamdani posted a heartfelt message mourning the loss of the NYPD Officer Didarul Islam. Republican Georgia Congressman Mike Collins launched a Senate bid this week, but the campaign kickoff included one cringeworthy misstep: his campaign misspelled Georgia in one of its videos. A video posted on X by the Mike Collins War Room on Sunday included a graphic that read Georiga, lets ride! rather than Georgia, lets ride! The video was posted just before the MAGA lawmaker officially announced he would run to try and unseat Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in the competitive Georgia Senate race on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The battleground state has what is expected to be one of the most competitive Senate races of the 2026 midterms after Donald Trump won it in 2024 despite it being represented by two Democratic senators. A screenshot of the Mike Collins Senate campaign video that misspelled Georgia, the same day the MAGA lawmaker launched his Senate bid in the battleground state. / https://x.com/TeamOverhaulGA The Georgia businessman whose family owns a trucking company was first elected to the House to represent the states 10th district in 2022. In the post on July 27, the campaign wrote: Mike Collins is ready to put the hammer down and get it done, along with the video that misspelled the states name. Collins officially launched his campaign the following morning, but has been retweeting X posts from the war room account. Mike Collins is ready to put the hammer down and get it done. pic.twitter.com/lgmJcHBd9k Mike Collins War Room (@TeamOverhaulGA) July 27, 2025 Luckily for Collins, the video posted on Monday from his own account for the launch did manage to spell Georgia correctly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its time to send a trucker to the U.S. Senate to steamroll the radical left, deliver on President Trumps America First agenda, and put the people of Georgia back in the drivers seat, Collins said in his launch video, which touted Trumps so-called big beautiful bill and ending DEI. Rep. Mike Collins standing behind President Donald Trump as seen in an image on his campaign website after the MAGA lawmaker launched a Senate bid in Georgia. / mikecollinsga.com However, more than 24 hours after the misspelled video was posted, it was still up on the campaign X page. Collins is the latest Republican to enter the GOP Senate primary in Georgia. Rep. Buddy Collins also launched a Senate bid earlier this year as another Trump-aligned MAGA Republican looking to flip the Senate seat from blue to red next year. A Saudi terrorist who ploughed his car into crowds at a Christmas market in Germany has re-traumatised his victims by writing to them from his jail cell. Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, 50, posted strange letters to his victims, complaining about the treatment of Saudi asylum seekers in Germany and suggesting they write back to him. The letters have deeply distressed their recipients, with one unnamed survivor telling German broadcaster MDR: We were shocked when we returned home from vacation and found the letter in our mailbox. How can a murderer get the survivors addresses? People pay their respects to the victims of the attack which killed six and injured hundreds of others - Omer Messinger/Getty Al-Abdulmohsen, who is accused of killing six people and injuring hundreds of others in a car-ramming attack on Magdeburgs Christmas market, had access to the victims addresses as they were included in the case files for his upcoming trial, MDR reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement German justice officials had no legal authority to stop him from writing to the victims, but they added a covering note to his letters informing the victims that they could choose not to read them. This only happens in Germany, one frustrated victim told MDR, which reported that one of the letters contained an apology and a description of the attack from the suspects own perspective. Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, who has been contacting victims from his jail cell - NF/newsX He is also said to have claimed that asylum seekers in Germany were at risk of imminent death and requested a response apparently going as far as to ask his victims to cover the cost of his next letter. Please contact me or send a representative. If writing to me, please enclose a stamped envelope. Yours sincerely, Taleb, he wrote in one of the letters seen by German media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The authorities inability to stop the suspect contacting his victims has caused outrage in Germany and triggered a debate over the rights of prisoners. Rudiger Erben, an MP from the centre-Left Social Democrats [SPD] party, said the letters had re-traumatised the victims. He also said that German prosecutors should have contacted victims ahead of the letters being delivered, rather than adding cover notes to them. The Magdeburg Christmas market attack was one of the most serious terror incidents in recent memory in Germany. At least 323 people were injured by the suspects car, which entered the market via a gap in the outer barriers. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Vanessa Whyte and her two children, who were murdered in County Fermanagh, will be buried together in her home town in County Clare. The 45-year-old and her children, 14-year-old James Rutledge and 13-year-old Sara Rutledge, were shot and killed in their home in Maguiresbridge on Wednesday. On Monday night the man suspected of killing them, Ian Rutledge (43) died in hospital. Last week police said a suspected triple murder and attempted suicide was one line of inquiry for detectives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Funeral arrangements for Ms Whyte and her children were announced on Monday night. In a post on social media the funeral directors said: "People attending the service of removal and funeral Mass are asked to please wear bright and cheerful colours in their memory." A service of removal will take place at St Mary's Church in Maguiresbridge at 11:00 BST on Wednesday 30 July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The funeral Mass will be held in Vanessa Whyte's home town of Barefield, County Clare on Saturday 2 August. "Following Mass, Vanessa, James and Sara will be laid to rest together in Templemaley Cemetery," they said. Emergency services were called to their home on the Drummeer Road on Wednesday morning. Two of the victims were declared dead at the scene and a third victim died later that day in hospital. Hours after the attack, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) told a news conference a man from the same household was in hospital with gunshot wounds. The PSNI's district commander said that no arrests had been made and at that stage it was not anticipated that any would be made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, detectives investigating the shooting reiterated their appeal for "anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward". On Saturday, they issued an appeal over the movements of a silver Mercedes between Maguiresbridge and Newtownbutler on the day before the shootings. Tributes to murder victims Tributes were left on the Drumeer Road in County Fermanagh near the scene of the shooting [PA Media] Sara and James were both students at Enniskillen Royal Grammar School and were former pupils of Maguiresbridge Primary School in their home village. Crowds of mourners attended a vigil for the family in the primary school's grounds on Friday. Several senior politicians were present as religious representatives addressed the vigil, and a minute's silence was held as a mark of respect for the victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A prayer service also took place on Sunday evening at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Barefield, County Clare. During the service, the parish priest, Fr Tom Fitzpatrick, told mourners: "Let us remember Vanessa not just by the way she died, but by the life she lived, her smile, her strength, her incredible powerful love for her children. "She gave it her all to the very end." "We remember James and Sara, not just as victims of violence, but as children who played and who laughed and had their favourite stories, of course favourite foods I'm sure as well, and great dreams," he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Dreams that will never be fulfilled, but dreams that mattered because they were theirs." If you are affected by any of the issues in this article, details of organisations that can offer help and support are available on the BBC Action Line. On a Friday evening this July, the Trump administration announced it would lay off all of the health research scientists at the Environmental Protection Agency. Hundreds of investigators who try to understand how toxic pollution affects the human body would be gone. That wasnt a surprise. The EPA which had a founding mission to protect the air we breathe and the water we drink, as President Richard Nixon put it has been busy dismantling policies that are in place to ensure environmental and public health. The New York Times reported earlier this month that the agency is drafting a plan that would repeal its recognition of climate change as a threat to human health, potentially limiting the governments ability to regulate greenhouse gases. EPA administrator Lee Zeldin has relaxed existing standards for mercury and lead pollution two toxins that can lead to developmental problems in children. And the EPA has postponed its implementation of new Biden-era regulations that were supposed to reduce the amount of dangerous chemicals Americans are exposed to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, House Republicans are attempting to grant widespread liability relief to pesticide companies and restrict EPA regulation of PFAS forever chemicals through provisions that have been tucked into the spending bills currently moving through Congress. (Democrats, for their part, have offered opposing legislation that would protect an individuals right to sue over any harm from pesticides.) This collective assault upon Americas environmental regulations targets not just the environment, but human health as well. Which means it sits oddly with the work of another Trump official whose office at the Department of Health and Human Services is just a 15-minute walk from EPA headquarters: Robert F. Kennedy Jr, whose Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement seeks to, obviously, make Americans healthier. But Kennedy hasnt spoken up about these contradictions and his supporters are beginning to notice. In response to the pro-pesticide industry proposals in Congress, MAHA leaders wrote a letter to Kennedy and Zeldin voicing opposition to a bill that they believe would ensure that Americans have no power to prevent pesticide exposure, and no path to justice after harm occurs. In the letter, they also urged the EPA to ban two pesticides atrazine and glyphosate that have been linked to birth defects and liver and kidney problems. What youll learn from this story: The Make America Healthy Again movement depends on not only improving the US food supply but eliminating environmental pollution. President Donald Trumps EPA has taken actions to deregulate pesticides, microplastics, mercury and lead pollution, and more substances that the MAHA movement has identified as dangerous to human health. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is facing pressure from leaders in the MAHA movement to reconcile the gap between their shared goals and Trumps environmental agenda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These toxic substances are in our food, rain, air, and water, and most disturbingly, in our childrens bodies, the MAHA letter says. It is time to take a firm stand. Kennedy is no stranger to these issues: Earlier this year, the Trump administrations Make America Healthy Again Commission report, which sought to document and explain the dramatic increase in chronic diseases like obesity among US children, identified both chemicals as health risks. Zeldin, however, has been working to deregulate both atrazine and glyphosate in his first few months leading the EPA. It is completely contrary to MAHA to relax regulations on PFAS and many different chemicals. We are calling upon them and to reverse some of these actions that [the administration] is taking or seemingly may allow, said Zen Honeycutt, one of the letter signers and the founder of the MAHA-aligned group Moms Across America. We are extremely disappointed with some of the actions taken by this administration to protect the polluters and the pesticide companies. MAHA burst onto the political scene as part of Kennedys 2024 presidential campaign. It has become a vehicle for public health concerns, some exceedingly mainstream (like addressing Americas ultra-processed food and reducing pollution) and some of them very much outside of it (such as undermining the effectiveness of vaccines). After dropping his own candidacy, Kennedy joined forces with Trump, and ended up running the nations most important health agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But now that hes in office, he and the movement he leads are running into the challenges of making change and the unavoidable reality that MAHA has allied with a president and an agenda that is often in direct opposition to their own. In the case of Lee Zeldin, you have someone whos doing incredibly consequential actions and is indifferent to the impact on public health, said Jeremy Symons, senior adviser to the Environmental Protection Network and a former adviser to the EPA during the Clinton administration. In the case of Kennedy, you have someone that has spent his life thinking about public health, but seems unable or disinterested in stopping whats going on. RFK Jr.s HHS vs. Zeldins EPA Kennedy has successfully nabbed voluntary industry commitments to phase out certain dyes from American food products. He has overhauled the governments vaccine policy, and one state has already followed his lead in banning fluoride from its drinking water. But his ambitions to reduce the sheer number of toxins that leach into Americas children in their most vulnerable years are being stymied by an EPA and a Republican-controlled Congress with very different priorities. Food dyes are not as consequential as pesticides for food manufacturers. The ingredients they put into the food contaminate the food, Honeycutt said. That issue is a much larger issue. That is the farmers, and changing farming practices takes longer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To Kennedys credit, these are issues hed apparently like to tackle if he could. His HHS report earlier this year pointed out that studies have raised concerns about possible links between some of these products and adverse health outcomes, especially in children. Specific ingredients in pesticides have been associated with cancer, inflammation, metabolic problems and more. But the EPA, meanwhile, has reversed regulations and stymied research for those same substances. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins hold ice cream cones while announcing a major industry pledge to ditch artificial dyes by 2027. | Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images The EPA has proposed easing restrictions on the amount of the herbicide atrazine that can be permitted in the nations lakes and streams. Human and animal studies have associated exposure to atrazine with birth defects, kidney and liver diseases, and problems with metabolism; the evidence, however, remains limited and the MAHA report called for further independent research. The EPA has also moved to block states from putting any new limits on or requiring any public disclosures for glyphosate, a herbicide that the MAHA report says has been linked to a wide range of health problems. Zeldin also postponed Biden-era plans to take action on chlorpyrifos, a common insecticide increasingly associated with development problems in kids. The EPA has also been slow to move on microplastics and PFAS, both substances of growing concern among scientists and the general public. These invisible but omnipresent chemicals are a priority for the MAHA movement, singled out in the White House report for further study and policymaking. The EPA, though, has delayed implementing a new standard to limit PFAS in drinking water and announced it would consider whether to raise the limits of acceptable PFAS levels in community water systems, while also slashing funding for more research on the substances health effects. Bisphenols (also known as BPA) and phthalates are two other common materials used in plastic production and food packaging, which have also been identified by researchers as likely dangerous because of their ability to disrupt hormone and reproductive function. The MAHA singles them out for further study and possible restrictions, but the EPA has delayed safety studies for both. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US is even moving backward on pollutants like mercury and lead, for which the scientific evidence of their harms is undisputed. They are toxins that regulators have actually taken steps over the decades to reduce exposure, through banning the use of lead paint, strictly limiting mercury levels, etc. Yet over the past few months, the EPA has moved to grant exemptions to coal power plants and chemical manufacturers that would allow more mercury pollution, while cutting monitoring for lead exposures. This is a long list of apparent contradictions and were barely six months into Trumps term. How long can the contradictions pile up without Kennedy challenging Zeldin directly? We reached out to the Health and Human Services Department to see if we could get Kennedys perspective on any of this. In response, an agency spokesperson sent a written statement: Secretary Kennedy and HHS are committed to investigating any potential root causes of the chronic disease epidemic, including environmental factors and toxic chemicals, an HHS spokesperson wrote. The Secretary continues to engage with federal partners, including the EPA, to ensure that federal actions align with the latest gold standard science and the public health priorities identified in the MAHA report. But as the EPA continues to roll back environmental protections despite the reassurances that the administration is aligned on MAHA, Kennedys constituents are growing impatient. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our childrens lives and futures are non-negotiables, and claims from the industry of safe levels of exposure ignore the impacts of cumulative exposure and the reality of serious, evidence-backed risks, the MAHA movements recent letter says. The industrys call for delay or inaction is completely unacceptable immediate and decisive action is needed now and is long overdue. Why isnt RFK Jr. standing up to the EPA? The conflict between the two agencies agendas has been striking: The EPA, under Zeldin, is allied with the industries it regulates and plans to deregulate as much as possible. HHS, on the other hand, is focused on its vision of making the environment safer in order to improve peoples health a goal that will inevitably require more regulations that require companies to restrict their use of certain compounds that prove to be dangerous to human health. Trump himself has said the two sides are going to have to work together and figure things out, Honeycutt noted words that she is taking to heart for now. And the movements leaders recognize that they are now in the business not of outside agitation but of working within the system to try to change it. Were not always going to be happy, Honeycutt said. But Kennedy may be playing the weaker hand: Zeldin and his agency hold obvious advantages, and in a fight between HHS and EPA, EPA will likely win unless, perhaps, Trump himself steps in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The biggest reason is a matter of authority: The EPA has the responsibility to regulate pollution, while Kennedys HHS does not. The federal health agency can offer funding to state and local health departments to advance its policy goals, but it has effectively no regulatory authority when it comes to the dangerous substances identified in the MAHA reports section on chemical toxins. The EPA, on the other hand, has broad discretion to regulate the chemicals that industries pump into the American environment or not. Environmental Protection Agency administrator Lee Zeldin speaks, as he tours a steel plant in South Carolina in May. | Kevin Lamarque/AFP via Getty Images The difference between the leadership at the two agencies is also stark: Kennedy is a former lifelong Democrat who has never held a government position; Zeldin is a seasoned GOP operator who served four terms in the US House. Kennedy has brought in an assortment of unconventional personnel at HHS, many with skepticism about mainstream science and who are viewed dubiously by the industries they oversee. At the EPA, representatives of long-entrenched polluting interests have commandeered powerful positions: Nancy Beck, a former scientist at the American Chemistry Council, the chemical manufacturing industrys trade association, for example, is now holding the position overseeing chemical safety and pollution prevention. The perception within the industry, according to insiders who spoke with Vox, is that Kennedy is, well, a lightweight. From the perspective of the polluter takeover of EPA, Kennedy is largely seen as inconsequential and ineffective. Hes playing wiffle ball, Symons said. Kennedy talks a good game, but watch carefully whats happening at EPA and all the favors being given to corporate polluters that are going to do far more damage than anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe are going to get more toxic and more dangerous because of whats happening in EPA, Symons told Vox. When it comes to jockeying for influence, Zeldin also enjoys more powerful friends in the Republican Party. He has relationships with conservative politicians and advocacy groups across the nation. Almost all of the Republican state attorneys general, for example, are motivated to roll back environmental regulations because its compatible with their priorities in their respective states. A lot of this is being driven by polluter states, red states with Republican attorneys general, Symons said. And, as evidenced by the pesticide liability relief legislation in Congress that prompted MAHAs letter to Kennedy and Zeldin, Republicans in the House and Senate remain much more allied with corporate interests an alliance that has stood for decades than with the public health movement that has only recently been brought inside the broader Make America Great Again coalition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is a bitter irony for a movement that has often called out corporate influence and corruption for the governments failures to protect public health. The White Houses own MAHA report cites the influence of big businesses to explain why the chronic disease crisis has grown so dire; in particular, the report says, as a result of this influence, the regulatory environment surrounding the chemical industry may reflect a consideration of its interests. MAHAs leaders arent running for the hills yet; Honeycutt said she urges her members not to vilify Kennedy or Trump for failing to make progress on certain issues. But they sense theyre losing control of the agenda on the environment, forcing difficult questions onto the movement just a few months after it attained serious power in Washington. As for MAHA organizations, they must decide whether they are to become appendages of the Republican party, or coalesce into an effective, independent political force, Charles Eisenstein, a wellness author who was a senior adviser to Kennedys presidential campaign, wrote for Childrens Health Defense, a once-fringe group with ties to Kennedy. To do that, the movement must hold Republicans accountable for undermining public health with policies like liability shields. It must not sacrifice its core priorities to curry short-term favor with the Republican establishment. The MAHA movement is made up of concerned parents and others focused on childens health. | Oliver Contreras/AFP via Getty Images The MAHA-MAGA political alliance is new and tenuous many MAHA followers voted for President Barack Obama, Eisenstein points out and it may not be permanent. And some fractures are already apparent: Honeycutt, the leader of Moms Across America and a signer of the MAHA movements letter to Kennedy, told Vox that her own members have told her directly that they are considering voting for Democrats in the next election. Even as she urges MAHA to keep the faith, Honeycutt said that Republicans risk alienating this enthusiastic part of their coalition by going hog wild on environmental deregulation. Her group is in the process of pulling together a legislative scorecard to hold lawmakers to account. There could be dire consequences for the midterm elections, if they dont realize, she said. We dont care if youre a Republican or Democrat. We will support whoever supports us. Vox climate correspondent Umair Irfan contributed reporting to this story. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) Main Street Market is one step closer to reopening its doors this fall, ushering in a bold new chapter rooted in community connection and local flavor. After months of work behind the scenes, the long-awaited renovation project is nearing completion. The focus for Mainstreet Markets was to improve infrastructure, enhance visitor flow, and strengthen the markets mission to connect people with local farmers and food producers. The renovation of Main Street Market is an exciting time for the downtown community, said Darlene Adams Rowland, Executive Director of BREADA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vision of the market goes beyond the design, as the new market will feature a coffee shop as well as artisan items from local growers and makers. This new centerpiece aims to create a cozy and welcoming environment for downtown workers, shoppers, and visitors to gather and connect. Although the timeline was extended beyond the original expectations, the extra work proved vital. Additional repairs were needed both inside and out to ensure the space was beautiful, safe, and sustainable for years to come. BREDA and state partners also collaborated to make sure everything was functional. Darlene Adams Rowland, Executive Director of BREADA, said, We took this opportunity to rethink the entire space. We improved both the flow and function, as well as how it reflects BREADAs mission of connecting the community with local food and farmers. Were incredibly grateful to the public for their patience and continued support throughout this process. The space has quietly remained active on Saturday mornings to keep the community connected and to assist the Red Stick Farmers Market shoppers with restroom and water station access. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The finish line is in sight as tenants received their keys this week. The upgraded Main Street Market is poised to be a vibrant destination for fresh food, small businesses, and community spirit. Latest News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. Planned Parenthood's office on Congress Street in Portland, Maine. (Photo by Lauren McCauley/ Maine Morning Star) Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey has joined 21 other states and the District of Columbia in a federal lawsuit challenging part of Republicans tax cut and spending law that blocks funding to Maines reproductive health care providers. A provision in the budget reconciliation law bars Medicaid reimbursements for services provided at family planning health centers such as Planned Parenthood and Maine Family Planning. Both organizations have separately filed lawsuits against the Trump administration, alleging that the loss of Medicaid reimbursements would be catastrophic for their organizations which are already under financial strain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maine Family Planning would lose about $1.9 million in annual funding if barred from collecting Medicaid reimbursements for non-abortion services Medicaid already cant be used for abortion services due to a separate federal law and Planned Parenthood clinics in Maine would lose about $1 million in Medicaid reimbursements. George Hill, president and CEO of Maine Family Planning, which has 19 sites across the state, highlighted whats at stake in the case. We serve patients in the most rural parts of the state, including those who are low-income and have no other place to turn for care. We are their only lifeline, Hill said in a statement. We are grateful to the state attorneys general for standing up for the rights of patients here in Maine and millions of others across the country, Hill continued. Because a right without the ability to exercise it is no right at all. On Monday, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction in a lawsuit filed by Planned Parenthood, expanding a previous block on the provision that protected some providers. That means that patients can continue using Medicaid at Planned Parenthood health centers throughout the country and that those health centers can be reimbursed for the services they provide those patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement Tuesday, Nicole Clegg, CEO of Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, said the organization applauds Frey for joining the suit. We are grateful to champions like Attorney General Frey who is fighting for Mainers ability to decide where to access the essential health care they need, when they need it, she said. The lawsuit Frey joined on Tuesday makes many of the same points, aiming to block implementation of the so-called defund provision, arguing that it will cut off low-income Americans from critical health services including cancer screenings, birth control and primary care. With rural hospitals under constant threat, there are many rural and low-income Mainers without access to health care providers. Without Planned Parenthood and Maine Family Planning, these patients in Maine will simply have nowhere to turn for routine healthcare, he said in a statement. Nationally, the provision could affect at least 200 health centers and more than 1.1 million patients, according to the complaint. The other states involved in the suit are: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. This story was updated to include a statement from Maine Family Planning. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Orange Money, the mobile phone money transfer service of French telco Orange, and South African fintech provider JUMO have partnered to extend microcredit services for unbanked populations across Africa. The partners say they will leverage JUMO's data analytics and AI technology for secure mobile credit requests and low risk repayments. Orange Money has more than 100 million customers in sixteen countries across Africa and the Middle East, while JUMO has more than 31 million African customers. According to the partner companies, the strategic alliance will enable the rollout of various credit products across multiple markets from a multitude of funders, creating a new micro-finance marketplace for the unbanked in emerging markets, with an initial focus on French speaking parts of Africa. Orange Money says JUMO's expertise in asset allocation and credit risk management makes it a key partner for the French company in Africa, enabling its customers to securely request credit through their mobile devices, without needing a bank account or collateral. "JUMO has developed a range of short-term and instalment loan products for consumers, merchants and distributors with limited access to these services," says Orange Money. "They use trained AI algorithms to assess credit risk and facilitate the immediate flow of capital through their partnerships with pan-African banks and development finance institutions." The offering is multi-country, multi-product, and multi-funding with plans to launch in Burkina Faso imminent, to be followed by Mali and Botswana. After developing transfer and payment services used thousands of times every second, we now aim to support our customers in their personal projects, as well as help them manage everyday emergencies," Aminata Kane, CEO of Orange Money Group said. "In recent years, Orange Money has expanded its portfolio with highly accessible small loan offers. "By partnering with JUMO, we aim to accelerate this momentum, roll out these services across a wide range of countries, and combine our expertise with their technology to deliver support that is even faster, more transparent, and better tailored to the needs of all our customers." Andrew Watkins-Ball, JUMO CEO and founder said the collaboration, built on top of Orange Money Group's mobile payments and money transfer platforms, will provide customers with great financial choices and allows its bank partners to grow in new markets. We are proud to have been chosen to partner with Orange and we are excited to connect Orange customers with products from the market leading banks that run on our platform," Watkins-Ball said. VALLETTA (Reuters) -Malta will declare recognition of a Palestinian state during the general assembly of the United Nations in September, Prime Minister Robert Abela said on Tuesday evening. Abela made the announcement hours after a similar declaration by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and days after France also announced its recognition plans. "Our position reflects our commitment to efforts for a lasting peace in the Middle East," Abela said in a Facebook post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Malta government had been under increasing pressure from within its ranks to recognise a Palestinian state and the centre-right Opposition in mid-July also called for immediate recognition. The Mediterranean EU island has a history of support for Palestinian causes and has backed efforts for a two-state solution. Abela first announced plans for recognition of a Palestinian state in May, saying it would take place at a United Nations conference in June, but the conference was later postponed. Ireland, Norway and Spain recognised Palestine as an independent state in May. (Reporting by Christopher Scicluna; Writing by Sara Rossi; Editing by Andrea Ricci) New York City Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mandani is facing renewed scrutiny for his past stances on policing in the wake of an office building mass shooting in Midtown Manhattan that left three civilians dead as well as a police officer. The shooter was neutralized as more information is being learned about the alleged gunman, Shane Tamura of Las Vegas. "Im heartbroken to learn of the horrific shooting in Midtown and I am holding the victims, their families, and the NYPD officer in critical condition in my thoughts. Grateful for all of our first responders on the ground," Mamdani posted to X on Monday night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adams, Cuomo Trade Jabs In Interviews As Dems-turned-independents Court Anti-mamdani Vote Democratic socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani, who won the Democratic primary for mayor of New York City, speaks at an endorsement event from the union DC 37 on July 15, 2025 in New York City. In the replies, people quickly shared images of a June 8, 2020 post when Mamdani said "No, we want to defund the police" and a Nov. 5, 2020 post when he said "Queer liberation means defund the police." "We don't need an investigation to know that the NYPD is racist, anti-queer & a major threat to public safety. What we need is to #DefundTheNYPD. But your deal with [New York City mayor] uses budget tricks to keep as many cops as possible on the beat. NO to fake cuts - defund the police," he posted on June 28, 2020. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In December of the same year, he also called for it to be "dismantled." "All this misery. All for money. In the last budget, the City Council tried to make the NYPD reduce its overtime budget by half. They simply refused. There is no negotiating with an institution this wicked & corrupt. Defund it. Dismantle it. End the cycle of violence," he wrote. Resurfaced Video Shows Zohran Mamdani Saying Domestic Violence Wouldnt Be A Priority For The Nypd However, he sang a different tune during a mayoral debate in his primary. "I will not defund the police. I will work with the police because I believe the police have a critical role to play in public service, public safety," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On his campaign website, he calls for the creation of a Department of Public Safety. "Police have a critical role to play. But right now, were relying on them to deal with the failures of our social safety netwhich prevents them from doing their actual jobs. Through this new city agency and whole-of-government approach, community safety will be prioritized like never before in NYC," the website states. Other mayoral candidates also condemned the tragedy in Manhattan on Monday night, including current Mayor Eric Adams, himself a former city police officer. Aoc-backed Socialist Mayoral Candidate Backtracks After Calling To 'Dismantle' Police In 2020 NYPD police responded to reports of an active shooter at 51st St. and Park Ave. in New York City on Monday, July 28, 2025. "I am going to over to the hospital to speak with the families and loved ones involved in this incident," Adams said in a video. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Horrified by the shooting in Midtown. Im grateful for the courage of our NYPD and first responders, and my prayers are with the victims and their families," former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo posted. "Disturbing reports out of Midtown Manhattanmultiple people reportedly shot, including an NYPD officer. Praying for everyone affected. Grateful to our first responders who run toward danger to keep us safe," Republican mayoral nominee Curtis Sliwa wrote. The four-way mayoral race is on Nov. 4. Adams opted to run as an Independent after being the Democratic nominee last cycle, and Cuomo's decision to remain in the race comes after Mamdani defeated him in the primary in what some considered an upset victory. Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani's campaign for comment, but they did not immediately respond. Original article source: Mamdani's past 'defund the police' stance resurfaces after deadly Manhattan shooting EXCLUSIVE: Lawmakers on the House Homeland Security Committee met with stakeholders and law enforcement to address the rise of antisemitic violence in the U.S., during a closed-door congressional roundtable on July 22, Fox News Digital has learned. The roundtable comes amid growing concerns about antisemitic violence months after recent attacks in Boulder, Colorado, and Washington, D.C., along with growing fears surrounding the potential election of Zohran Mamdani, who has espoused anti-Israel viewpoints, as New York City mayor. "Jewish communities across the country are living in fear, and I am committed to standing with them. This roundtable comes at a critical moment: a far-left activist who has defended the phrase globalize the intifada is inching closer to leading a city home to one of the worlds largest Jewish populations," Rep. August Pfluger, the chairman of the Homeland Security Committees counterterrorism and intelligence subcommittee, said in his opening statement, obtained by Fox News Digital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boulder Terror Attack Result Of Reckless Biden Policies,' White House Says Rep. August Pfluger, R-Texas, participates in the House Republicans news conference in the Capitol to discuss defunding the Homeland Security Departments Disinformation Governance Board on Wednesday, May 11, 2022. "Antisemitic and anti-Israel rhetoric is becoming dangerously mainstream. We must act now to expose and combat this vile hatred wherever it is spread," Pfluger said. The roundtable focused on improving interagency coordination, intelligence sharing, training, and enforcement to better prevent and respond to antisemitic violence, according to a House Homeland Security Committee aide. Read On The Fox News App In particular, the meeting addressed ways to bolster communication between the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, along with state and local law enforcement, according to Michael Masters, the CEO of the Secure Community Network, a non-profit organization focused on the safety of the Jewish community in North America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This interagency coordination is absolutely paramount as the Secure Community Network has flagged 500 credible threats to life this year which all have required immediate law enforcement intervention, according to Masters. "Bad guys don't respect orders. Bad actors don't respect jurisdictions, and that means that our intelligence can't be siloed," Masters told Fox News Digital on Monday. Shooting At Capital Jewish Museum Highlights Rising Wave Of Anti-jewish Hate Crimes Anti-Israel supporters gather outside the U.S. Capitol to protest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech to the United States Congress in Washington, D.C., on July 24, 2024. Additionally, the roundtables discussion highlighted how extremist rhetoric can spread, especially on college campuses and via social media, the aide said. Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023, student protests have erupted across college campuses in the U.S., including at Columbia University in New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Likewise, those participating in the roundtable addressed the prevalence of homegrown and foreign-influenced extremism, when one participant highlighted instances where anti-Israel terrorist organizations have disseminated tool kits and talking points aimed at promoting attacks in the U.S., the committee aide said. The discussion is expected to inform legislative priorities centered around bolstering officer training, improving data collection, and ensuring "robust prosecution" of antisemitic offenses, the committee aide said. Biden Dhs Reveals 50 Migrants Still At Large As Isis-affiliated Smuggling Network Brings Hundreds To Us A protester holds a Palestinian flag as students rally on Columbia University campus at a protest encampment in support of Palestinians during the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in New York City on April 29, 2024. Those who participated in the roundtable included representatives from the Secure Community Networks; the Anti-Defamation League, an organization dedicated to stopping the defamation of the Jewish people; the Department of Homeland Securitys Office of Intelligence & Analysis; and law enforcement officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pfluger, a Republican from Texas, has spearheaded legislation that would bar any visa holders backing Hamas or other designated terror groups from staying in the U.S. He also led a hearing last month on the rise of antisemitic violence in the U.S., following a May shooting that killed two Israeli Embassy employees in Washington and a terrorist attack in Colorado targeting a grassroots group advocating for the release of Israeli hostages. Antisemitic violence reached a new high in 2024, according to the Anti-Defamation League. The group recorded 9,354 antisemitic instances of harassment, assault, and vandalism in the U.S. in 2024 a 5% increase from the 8,873 incidents recorded in 2023 and a 344% increase in the past five years. Likewise, the number of incidents is the highest the group has recorded since 1979, when the group first started tracking these cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Incidents of antisemitic violence in 2024 were highest in the state of New York, where Mamdani is currently a state assemblyman. Mamdani has attracted scrutiny, including from Democrats, for initially failing to condemn the term "globalize the intifada," a phrase used to back Palestinian resistance against Israel. However, he has since said he will not use the term and will discourage others from using it as well. New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is of Indian descent and was born in Uganda. Still, concerns remain over what his potential leadership as mayor could mean for the Jewish community in New York City. Roughly 1.4 million people in the Greater New York Area identified as Jewish in 2023, according to UJA-Federation of New York. "There's a lot of fear in the Jewish community if this guy becomes mayor," New York City Republican councilwoman Inna Vernikov told Fox News Digital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is a guy who wants to globalize the intifada," Vernikov said. "We've never seen anything close to this in New York City. We have the largest Jewish population in America, and I'll tell you Jews are telling me they're going to run away from New York City, and Jews have contributed a lot to the city and to this country, and the idea that they are now afraid to live here it's unacceptable and unprecedented really, this has never happened here." Fox News Andrew Mark Miller contributed to this report. Original article source: Mamdani's rise, 'vile hatred' of US Jews the focus of 'critical' closed-door congressional huddle Honolulu police arrested a 63-year for attempted second-degree murder after he allegedly stabbed another man Monday afternoon in Waianae. Police said the incident occurred at about 4 p.m., and that the suspect and victim, a 58-year-old man, got into a verbal argument that escalated and led to the alleged stabbing. Honolulu Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene at Pokai Bay Street, and treated the victim for an apparent stab wound to the chest. He was taken to the hospital in serious condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police located and arrested the suspect at about 4 :25 p.m. He remains in custody, pending an investigation. See more : 0 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our. Having trouble with comments ? . Man accused of attacking girlfriend, ramming patrol car to escape Puyallup police A Puyallup man is accused of attacking his girlfriend, sending police on a chase across the city, and ramming a patrol car. It all started just after 6:30 p.m. on Monday at the intersection of East Pioneer and South Meridian. A neighbor told officers they saw the man going after his girlfriend, so they stepped in with a gun and confronted him. When the man saw the weapon he took off. Officers say the woman was bleeding from her head, so they called for medical aid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police searched the area and spotted the man trying to drive away. They followed him, but he refused to pull over. Officers say they eventually pinned his car in, and the man rammed a patrol car to get away. They chased him again and eventually used a PIT maneuver to stop the man near the Washington State Fairgrounds. He was booked into the Pierce County Jail for domestic violence assault, eluding, hit and run, and DUI. Man accused of pistol-whipping victim for AirPods, cash during Gwinnett Co. armed robbery Gwinnett County police arrested a man linked to an armed robbery that was about cash and electronics. Police say after pistol-whipping a teen for $500 cash and a pair of AirPods, Samuel Medeiros-Santos, 19, tried to get away on Satellite Blvd., but was no match for the officers on his tail. A Gwinnett County police officer chased him and ended the pursuit by performing a PIT maneuver. Officers soon learned that Medeiros-Santos was one of four people linked to a violent armed robbery in Duluth three days earlier. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Police say the chase began July 18 when officers spotted a car on Satellite Blvd. linked to an armed robbery at a home in Duluth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Duluth police say two teenage brothers went to visit a friend when masked gunmen attacked. Officers say the second brother tried to help, but the group of suspects shot at him with bullets tearing holes through his jacket. Three days later, three of the four were in custody. Duluth police told Channel 2 Gwinnett County Bureau Chief Matt Johnson that they arrested two juvenile suspects, but one other, an adult, remains on the run. Maynard Stubbs, 19, is considered armed and dangerous. Police say it appears that the robbery involves people who know each other. The victim who was pistol-whipped had a cut to his head, but no one was shot. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Jul. 28A man is being held in jail as he awaits trial for allegedly raping his foster children for nearly a decade and threatening to kill them if they told anybody. Francisco Agosto, 40, was arrested July 14 on four charges of criminal sexual penetration of a minor under the age of 13, four counts of criminal penetration of a minor under the age of 18, and four counts of intimidation of a witness. He is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The allegations stretched across eight years, according to court records, as Agosto moved himself and the five foster children around Texas and then New Mexico before settling in the Albuquerque area. Agosto's attorney did not respond to calls for comment. "Prior to the current case, CYFD was not aware of Mr. Agosto," Jessica Preston, spokesperson for the Children, Youth and Families Department, told the Journal in a statement. "Prior to the current case, these children were not listed in CYFD's database," Preston said. "These children are residents of New Mexico. Mr. Agosto was not licensed in New Mexico and the adoptions of the children occurred in another state prior to moving to New Mexico. This is an ongoing investigation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers were dispatched to a reported rape at a home in the 1300 block of San Clemente NW, near 12th and Griegos. Upon arriving, officers spoke with Agosto's former spouse and the five children, who said that Agosto had raped and sexually abused them, one by one, for several years. The children were first fostered by Agosto before they were all adopted. "Eventually, all of her siblings ended up as foster children in that home," a criminal complaint filed in Metropolitan Court stated. "The entire sibling group was adopted by (Agosto) and (his spouse) in February 2016." The eldest sibling, who is now 20, told police the sexual abuse began when she was 7 years old and the family lived in Texas, according to the criminal complaint. The family later moved to another city in Texas before moving to Socorro, Los Lunas and Albuquerque, where they have lived since 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Agosto would tell her she could earn extra time on her cellphone by doing sexual favors, which turned into rape when she was 11. Agosto began raping her at least "once a week," the criminal complaint said. She told police Agosto would "often threaten to kill her and her siblings if she ever told anyone, so she didn't." The girl told police Agosto told them, "If you ever tell anybody about what's happening, I will kill your siblings and make you watch, and then I will kill your cats," according to the criminal complaint. Another sibling, who is 12 years old, told police that Agosto would not let the children eat without his permission, and often forced them to do sexual favors if they wanted food, according to the criminal complaint. She also told police Agosto would bribe them with money, between $10 and $100, and video games in return for sexual acts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 12-year-old told police that, at one point in June, Agosto tried to get her pregnant, which led her to feel suicidal, the child told police. Agosto had raped her on July 7, and she decided to show her eldest sister text messages between herself and Agosto. The older sister decided to take the children to Agosto's ex-husband's house, where he called the police and took the children to the hospital. In a pretrial detention motion filed on July 15, prosecutors said Agosto's "years-long sexual behavior against children demonstrates the defendant's lack of regard for the health, safety, and life of the victims and shows he is a continuing danger to the victims and to any children in the community." HOUSTON - In a press conference on Monday, the Houston Fire Chief said Dustin Schlain was arrested and charged for intentionally setting multiple fires in and around Memorial Park. Man faces arson charges What we know Authorities said there were five fires at the park last week. Some vegetation was burnt. Arson investigators reviewed video, identified a possible suspect and tracked him down within a day. "He did confess to setting multiple fires in the area. He's currently in the Harris County Jail. He faces two felony counts of arson," said Fire Chief Thomas Munoz, Houston Fire Dept. "It's important to know since the arrest was made on Wednesday, there have been no park or Memorial area fires, so this definitely shows this was the person setting the fires." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the fires have typically been small and away from any structures, investigators say they pose a risk to both the park and the people who enjoy it. Houston Mayor John Whitmire thanked the HFD Arson Bureau for what he calls their swift response in identifying someone who caused harm to one of our city's parks. Authorities say it's still an open investigation. Since last October, investigators say there have been about 15 fires in and around the park and Schlain is connected to at least two of them. Officials say Schlain is homeless. His bond was set at $50,000. The Source FOX 26 Reporter Jillian Hartmann has the latest. The Brief A man has been arrested for a murder in North Austin Austin police said the incident happened on July 19 near E. Braker Lane This is Austin's 34th murder investigation of 2025 AUSTIN, Texas - A man has been arrested for murder in connection to a deadly drive-by shooting in North Austin, police said. The Austin Police Department said 25-year-old Kenan Greene was arrested by the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force after a murder warrant was issued for him. He was found at an apartment complex in East Austin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greene has been booked into the Travis County Jail. What happened? The backstory Police said on July 19, around 2:07 a.m., officers responded to a shoot/stab hotshot call at 804 East Braker Lane. The caller was yelling for help and said she had been shot and someone else was dead. When officers arrived, they found the woman who called and a man. Both had gunshot wounds. The man was identified as the woman's boyfriend, Comarri Thompson. He died from his injuries. The woman was taken to a local hospital for her injuries. The investigation showed that the couple were inside their car at Braker Lane and Dessau Road when another car pulled up next to them and shot at them multiple times. The car then left the area. The Source Information from the Austin Police Department NEED TO KNOW A 59-year-old man has been charged with allegedly assaulting an airline crew member after a bathroom dispute on a plane to Brisbane at Perth Airport in Australia Local police said the man refused a crew members instruction to take his seat and "pushed" the crew member because he wanted to go to the bathroom If convicted of the crime, the man could face up to 14 years in prison, Australian Federal Police said A 59-year-old man has been arrested and charged in Australia following a bathroom dispute on a plane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Australian Federal Police (AFP) shared in a news release on Tuesday, July 29, that the airline passenger who was not identified was removed from a flight to Brisbane at Perth Airport by police on July 14. Police said the man allegedly refused a crew members instruction to take his seat as the flight was preparing for departure because he wanted to use the bathroom, and pushed the crew member. The incident was then reported to the flight captain, who requested assistance from police at the airport. AFP officers went to the gate and removed the man from the plane. Officers alleged that the man had also been uncooperative with police. Alamy Stock Photo Perth International Airport in Australia Perth International Airport in Australia AFP shared an arrest image of the man being taken away from the flight. In the photo, he could be seen wearing a white button up shirt and black slacks as he sat down in an area with a white interior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police did not say if he appeared to be under the influence of alcohol or any other substances at the time of the incident. AFP Inspector Peter Brindal said airline crew members "worked to ensure a safe journey for all travellers" and that "any aggressive or violent behaviour towards them was unacceptable." The AFP has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to the assault or mistreatment of airline staff, and anyone who commits such an offense can be prosecuted, Brindal said in a statement, per the release. The 59-year-old has been charged with one count of assaulting a crew member, contrary to section 318A of the Criminal Code. If found guilty of this charge, the man could face up to 14 years in prison, police said. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Alamy Stock Photo An Australian Federal Police vehicle An Australian Federal Police vehicle The man is set to make his first appearance at Perth Magistrates Court on July 29. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There have also been a number of unruly passengers flagged in airports across the U.S. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said there have been 934 unruly passenger reports in 2025, as of July 27. The FAA said anyone who is flagged as an unruly passenger may face a felony conviction and fines of up to $37,000 per violation for unruly passenger cases, according to its website. Read the original article on People DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC), a Fortune 500 global technology services provider, today announced DXC Assure Risk Management, a next-generation solution that unites AI and human expertise to help self-insured organisations better support employee health and wellbeing throughout the full claims lifecycle and accelerate return-to-work outcomes. Helping Australian employers with smarter, more efficient ways to manage employee care and compliance for improved return-to-work outcomes Self-insured organisations use their own funds to cover employee insurance claims instead of purchasing traditional insurance. As a result, they often face a distinct set of challenges: delivering effective employee care, navigating complex and time-consuming regulations, managing escalating healthcare costs, and improving return-to-work outcomes. Available globally today, DXC Assure Risk Management offers a comprehensive, flexible platform that helps address these challenges with: Human expertise at the core: A specialised team with deep insurance knowledge supporting the full claims lifecycle, including sentiment analysis and proactive claims prevention. A specialised team with deep insurance knowledge supporting the full claims lifecycle, including sentiment analysis and proactive claims prevention. AI-enabled processes: Intelligent automation of claims workflows and reporting, operational risk mitigation, and integrated health and safety management tools. Intelligent automation of claims workflows and reporting, operational risk mitigation, and integrated health and safety management tools. SaaS Technology: A modern, end-to-end, persona-driven claims and risk management system with document automation, real-time dashboards, and generative AI capabilities embedded throughout the process to help improve outcomes. We are proud to launch DXC Assure Risk Management, which represents a shift toward treating workers' compensation as an integral part of the employee experience, rather than merely a matter of operational compliance. By combining experienced claims professionals with AI, this new service helps self-insured employers streamline processes, stay compliant, and more importantly support, when it matters most, said Michael Neary, Managing Director Australia and New Zealand, Insurance Software, Claims Management and BPS at DXC Technology. While cost savings are possible from self-managing claims, self-insured organisations require the same efficient management processes as full stack insurers to protect against leakage and ensure successful returns to work," says Nathan Golia, senior analyst for Celent. "Risk management operations can realise benefits by leveraging AI to drive efficiencies and using care experts who can help employees return to work sooner." With over 40 years of industry expertise, DXC is the trusted partner of choice for 21 of the top 25 insurers. As the leading provider of core insurance systems, DXC continues to innovatehelping insurers reduce complexity and costs across more than 1 billion policies processed on DXC software. For more information on DXC Assure Risk Management, visit our website. About DXC Technology DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC) is a leading global provider of information technology services. Were a trusted operating partner to many of the worlds most innovative organisations, building solutions that move industries and companies forward. Our engineering, consulting and technology experts help clients simplify, optimise and modernise their systems and processes, manage their most critical workloads, integrate AI-powered intelligence into their operations, and put security and trust at the forefront. Learn more on dxc.com. BUCKHANNON, W.Va. (WBOY) A man has been charged after a victim was hospitalized following a disturbance in Upshur County earlier this month. On July 20, troopers with the Upshur County detachment of the West Virginia State Police responded to a reported disturbance taking place at a residence on Silica Drive in Buckhannon, according to a criminal complaint. Robert Becke When troopers arrived, they made contact with a victim who had several visible injuries which had allegedly been caused by Robert Becke, of Buckhannon, troopers said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior to troopers arrival, Becke had thrown a helmet at the victim, before he got on top of her, putting his elbow on her throat and covering her nose and mouth with his hand, making it so the victim could not breathe, according to the complaint. Missing man found dead at West Virginia park The victim claimed that when trying to become free from Beckes grip, she felt a pop in her neck, and that Becke had attempted to strike her with a metal wrench before the she was struck on the head and went unconscious for an unknown period of time, troopers said. From a video recoded on the victims cell phone, troopers were able to see a video of Becke telling the victim, If youve got my Harley jacket, Im going to kill you now, b****, before the video shows Becke lunging toward [the victim] and the video stops, according to the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim was treated for injuries at St. Josephs Hospital, the complaint said. Becke has been charged with malicious assault and strangulation. He is being held in Tygart Valley Regional Jail on $30,000 bond. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. Jul. 28A man was arrested Friday in connection with a dog attack that seriously injured a person earlier this month in Dayton. The Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team, Dayton Police Department's Violent Offenders Unit and other assisting law enforcement officers arrested the man on Victor Avenue, according to Dayton police. The case is part of a felonious assault investigation when a person was seriously injured during a July 11 attack by two dogs near Richmond and Niagara avenues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Derrick Lee Purter, 38, is accused of "siccing" his pitbulls on the victim, according to Dayton Municipal Court records. The incident was captured on cellphone video and turned over to officers. Police initially couldn't speak to the victim because they were in surgery for their injuries. They later told investigators they were assaulted by a man and his dogs, according to court documents. They allegedly called the attacker Derrick Porter initially and later identified Purter as the suspect during a photographic lineup. Purter was charged with one count of felonious assault and a warrant was issued for his arrest Wednesday, according to court records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, he reportedly ignored multiple commands by SOFAST crew, so officers entered the house and took him into custody. Two dogs were seized and turned over to the Montgomery County Animal Resource Center. The investigation is ongoing. DES MOINES, Iowa Police are investigating a fatal shooting that happened late Monday night in Des Moines Southwestern Hills neighborhood. Sgt. Paul Parizek, Public Information Officer of the Des Moines Police Department, said officers responded to reports of a shooting at 2221 Stanton Avenue a little before 11:30 p.m. Thats just north of the Des Moines International Airport. When they arrived at the apartment complex, they found a 47-year-old man with a gunshot injury. Court documents: Ottumwa stabbing suspect allegedly tried to kill victim for talking to his girlfriend Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First aid, including CPR, was provided by DMPD officers until medics with the Des Moines Fire Department arrived, and he was transported to UnityPoint-Methodist Medical Center. The man died at the hospital. His name has not been released. Sgt. Parizek said the shooting appears to be a directed incident and there isnt any indication there is ongoing danger to the neighborhood. Police investigate shooting at 2221 Stanton Avenue on July 28, 2025. (Courtesy: Des Moines Police Department) Police investigate shooting at 2221 Stanton Avenue on July 28, 2025. (Courtesy: Des Moines Police Department) Police investigate shooting at 2221 Stanton Avenue on July 28, 2025. (Courtesy: Des Moines Police Department) Police investigate shooting at 2221 Stanton Avenue on July 28, 2025. (Courtesy: Des Moines Police Department) The investigation into the shooting continues. Information about a possible suspect in the shooting has not been released. If you have any information about the investigation and have not already spoken with a detective, the police are asking you to call them at 515-237-1552. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More information is expected to be released later. Metro news Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. A man has pleaded not guilty to the murder of his stepmother almost two years ago. Abdul Sami, 22, of Mannheim Road, Bradford, is charged with murdering Rizwana Kauser, who died in hospital on 17 August 2023. Ms Kauser, who was 42, was found unconscious at an address on Kensington Street two days before she died. Appearing at Bradford Crown Court via video link Mr Sami was told his trial would begin on the 23 February 2026 and a further pre-trial hearing would take place on 21 October. Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North. Related internet links PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A 28-year-old man died in a single-car crash on Saturday on Hwy 213 near Oregon City, Oregon State Police said. Officers responded to the crash just after 3 p.m. Authorities say Bryce Montplaisir Ainslie was driving south on the highway in a black Ford F-250 pickup truck when he left the travel lane for an unknown reason, crashed into a guardrail, and went down an embankment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ainslie was pronounced dead at the scene. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A motorcyclist lost his life after a crash on Friday evening, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP). Just before 8 p.m. on Monday, July 28, troopers were called to a crash on East Maiden Road near Lebanon Road. This is about seven miles east of Maiden. NTSB launches probe into I-485 crash that killed six Authorities say a 2008 Kawasaki motorcycle driving east on East Maiden Road went off the right side of the road and hit a concrete culvert. The driver, 57-year-old Roger Albert Bradstreet of Lincolnton, was thrown from the bike. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bradstreet was taken by medical helicopter to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, but passed away at the hospital from his injuries. Troopers believe excessive speed led to the crash. East Maiden Road was closed for about an hour during the on-scene investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) On Saturday, we told you Panama City Beach Fire Beach safety officials had confirmed a total of two drownings so far this year. Unfortunately, on Sunday, that number went up. Unfortunately, the gentleman did pass. So that gives us our third drowning in the city limits for 2025, PCBFD Beach Safety Director Daryl Paul said. Paul says two out of the three drownings that occurred this year, including Sundays, happened when yellow flags were flying. Beachgoers should never be too careful and should always swim near a lifeguard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paul says the man was swimming near beach access 42, which does not have a lifeguard on duty. Man drowns in deadly rip current incident in Gulf County What weve gathered on scene is that this unfortunate incident, the gentleman dove underneath a shallow wave, and then eyewitness reports said they saw him float up unresponsive. So he was in shallow water, waist-deep, calm conditions, Paul said. According to Paul, the closest lifeguards would be at the county pier towers. Although the incident occurred in Panama City Beachs jurisdiction, Paul says response efforts were collaborative. I believe they sent two units from a tower over. So just another piece of the collaborative effort that were all part of here in Panama City Beach, Paul said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the investigation is still ongoing, Paul believes the man was a visitor. A social media message sent to Josie-On-The-Go says the man was swimming behind the Holiday Terrace Beachfront hotel. Paul says they assessed the rip current risk in that area following the incident. We arrived on scene. Were taking patient care. Afterwards, we assessed the rip current risk in that general area, and we found no rip currents in the general area where the gentleman was pulled from the water, Paul added. Paul went on to say, out of the three drownings in the city limits, none were caused by a rip current. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DOH-Bay shares water safety tips for National Water Safety Month One drowning was an after-hours shallow water drowning, and then the other was a medical-related incident right on the shoreline. There are other factors at play that lead to drownings. Thats why we always encourage people to never swim alone, Paul continued. There have been fewer drownings this year compared to last year. Paul attributes it to increased rip current awareness and other preventative measures. To stay informed on Gulf conditions, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. One of the men who helped subdue the suspect in the stabbing on July 26 at a Walmart near Traverse City spoke to ABC's "Good Morning America" on July 29 about the ordeal. "I didn't think of anything other than trying to get him away from people and get him isolated and get him to put the knife down," Derrick Perry said. Perry, a former Marine, was checking out at Walmart on Saturday, July 26, when he said he heard a "commotion." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "A lady was, like, screaming for her son and all the employees and patrons were clamoring trying to run in different directions," he said. The suspect, Bradford James Gille, fled to the parking lot. Perry, shown in the video wearing a white T-shirt and khaki shorts, dropped his groceries and, along with others, surrounded Gille. Perry pulled out his gun; it is legal to open carry in Michigan. "Unfortunately, there was kinda like a mob mentality and some very disturbing things were being said on how to deal with the situation," Perry recounted of the day. "And I had to block all of that out and focus on him because ... I ultimately just wanted him to put the knife down and back away until law enforcement got there. I did not see myself as any type of judge, jury or executioner. I just wanted everyone to be safe." Did Gille say anything while being surrounded? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I could see in his eyes that he was wild-eyed and he did not look like he was in his right mind," Perry said. "And he was saying 'They told me to do it. They told me to do it. And call 911.' "I said they are on their way. They are coming." Not once did Perry, who works in a hospital, consider firing his weapon. "I took time to actually look and listen and try to understand his mind state," he said "And see that, yes, I am in a position to do something very rash, but it's ultimately my decision to not do it as well. Deescalate the situation, try to get him to surrender on his own accord." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Munson Healthcare in Traverse City confirmed Perry is an employee. "We want to confirm that Derrick Perry, an off-duty Munson Healthcare employee, was part of the citizen apprehension of the suspect in the Walmart incident last Saturday," said Catherine Dewey, Healthcare Communications and Marketing Leader for Munson Healthcare, in an email. "We recognize his courage, yet we want to honor him and his family's request for privacy during this difficult time as they process these events. Thank you for respecting their privacy." Perry doesn't consider himself a hero for his actions. "The only that separated me from the other gentlemen that had stepped in as well was what was I was carrying in my hands," he said. "I think I would have ran out there or walked out there and helped either way. It was just a moment of 'I got a duty to protect.'" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gillie was arrested after being subdued by bystanders, including Perry. Gille was arraigned on one count of felony terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder in Grand Traverse County 86th District Court on Monday, July 28. He's due back in court. Aug. 6. This story has been updated with new information. Follow the Detroit Free Press on Instagram (@detroitfreepress), TikTok (@detroitfreepress), YouTube (@DetroitFreePress), Twitter/X (@freep), and LinkedIn, and like us on Facebook (@detroitfreepress). Contact Amy Huschka: ahuschka@freepress.com or follow her on Twitter/X (@aetmanshuschka). Stay connected and stay informed. Become a subscriber. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Man who faced Traverse City Walmart stabbing suspect speaks out KANSAS CITY, Mo. A Kansas City, Kansas, man has been charged with capital murder after investigators say he shot and killed a Wyandotte County sheriffs deputy on Saturday. Wyandotte County District Attorney Mark Dupree has charged 38-year-old Shawn Harris with one count of capital murder and one count of criminal possession of a weapon by a felon for the death of 34-year-old Elijah Ming. Who was Elijah Ming? Tributes roll in for Wyandotte County deputy shot, killed in KCK Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court records say that on Saturday afternoon, law enforcement received a call from a woman asking officers to accompany her as she moved out of her home, located near South 30th Street and Shawnee Drive, due to safety concerns. She told investigators that she tried to move items out of the home previously with her friends, but a man, later identified as Harris, had threatened her with a gun. According to investigators, Ming and a Kansas City, Kansas, police officer were called to the scene on reports of a civil standby. They arrived at about 3:30 p.m. When they approached the front door, investigators say Harris shot at the officers multiple times from inside the house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The KCKPD officer was uninjured; however, Ming was struck by gunfire. He was later taken to a hospital, where he died from his injuries. Vigil held for fallen Wyandotte deputy Elijah Ming Following the shooting, Harris barricaded himself inside the house for several hours. At some point during the standoff, gunfire was exchanged between him and responding law enforcement agents, resulting in Harris being shot. He eventually surrendered and was taken into custody before being transferred to a hospital for his injuries. On Sunday, the day after the shooting, Harris was discharged from the hospital and taken to the Johnson County Detention Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX4 asked KBI why Harris was booked into a facility in Johnson County. The bureau shared that it is standard practice for many law enforcement agencies to house a suspect in a nearby jail or detention facility, outside of the agencys jurisdiction, if they have a potential conflict of interest related to the suspect. This is a measure that provides an added level of impartiality. KBI also shared that any Information on court appearances and formal charges would come from the Wyandotte County District Attorneys Office. At the end of the day, he needs to pay for what hes done, but obviously the law needs to support whatever that is, because thats our system, Wyandotte County Sheriff Daniel Soptic shared with FOX4 Tuesday. He should face capital murder, you cant just kill somebody for nothing. He (Ming) was doing his job, Kansas City, Kansas, resident, Holly Roberts said. His family anticipated on him coming home. From what Im hearing, he just recently had a new child. Its just heartbreaking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bar K permanently closes in Kansas City Roberts, Monday morning, dropped off a flower at the homes stoop where Saturdays events unfolded. My heart just kinda just tugged a little bit, Roberts said. Its just sad. Its a sad incident. It just didnt need to happen. Ive been praying for the families involved and even for the police officers. I know he (Ming) had lots of friends. A lot of my friends were friends with this man. He was really involved with the community a lot. A nearby neighbor shared with FOX4 that the home where the shooting happened is a rental, and the couple was in it only for a few months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harris is currently being held on no bond. At this time, his first hearing has not been scheduled. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. A man is facing a murder charge in connection with the death of a woman in Newmarket, New Hampshire. Police responded to a home on Maple Street just before midnight for a welfare check. Officers entered the home and found Kylie Fritz, 38, lying dead on the floor. Police said Fritz appeared to be suffering from a gunshot wound. An arrest warrant was issued Tuesday for 39-year-old Stephen Field, charging him with one count of second-degree murder and one count of Falsifying Physical Evidence, contrary to RSA 641:6. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Field is scheduled to be arraigned on Wednesday morning in Brentwood District Court. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW A man who "battered the life" out of his mother's ex-partner has been found guilty over his death. John Forsyth left Barry Evans with "catastrophic and unsurvivable" injuries including a blood clot on the brain in the unprovoked attack at his mother's home in Wishaw in 2022. Forsyth, 29, had claimed to be acting in self-defence after alleging Mr Evans, who was 47, "lunged" at him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But a jury found him guilty of culpable homicide following a trial at the High Court in Glasgow. Mr Evans had been the partner of Forsyth's mother about 10 years ago, the court heard. He was said to have been badly affected by losing his job and was taking medication for anxiety at the time of his death. Mr Evans had also been in hospital the day before the attack. The court heard Mr Evans had ended up at Forsyth's mother's house while she was out. Another of her children had returned to the home where he found Mr Evans lying on the bed with his dog in the house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court heard Forsyth later arrived to "deal with" Mr Evans. Mr Evans sustained jaw fractures, broken teeth, black eyes and extensive bruising during the attack. He died in hospital two days later, having suffered repeated blunt force trauma to the head and body by means unknown. 'Petrified' Forsyth stated during a 999 call that "a random person" he assaulted was "dying". He claimed not to know who the man was. The court heard Forsyth's brother had sent a text message to their sister stating: "Johnny's just battered the life out of him." Prosecutor Vish Kathuria said Forsyth "boasted" about "battering" someone who had "broke into his mum's house" during prison phone calls after he was held over Mr Evans' death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forsyth accepted assaulting Mr Evans and had left him in "some nick" - but insisted he had been defending himself. He claimed in his evidence that he had been "petrified" at his mum's house and that there had been "a reaction". Lord Young remanded Forsyth in custody following the verdict. Sentencing was adjourned until next month. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A 28-year-old man was sentenced to life in prison without parole for a deadly car-to-car shooting in central Bakersfield. Kira Conerly-Burton II was sentenced last week in the death of Michael Rico Stubbs, 32. He was found guilty in June of first-degree murder and shooting at an occupied motor vehicle. On the evening of March 22, 2022, police found Stubbs suffering from multiple gunshot wounds inside a car at California Avenue and P Street. He was declared dead at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors said Stubbs was stopped at a red light when Conerly-Burton pulled up and fired, hitting him in the head and neck. Surveillance video showed Conerly-Burton had been following Stubbs vehicle for several blocks. Conerly-Burton fled to Los Angeles and made his way to North Dakota. He was arrested months later. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News. GRAND HAVEN, Mich. (WOOD) A man is heading to prison for a minimum of about eight years for his role in a road rage incident last year near Allendale that killed an uninvolved party. Ethan Luke Oosterhouse, 24, earlier pleaded no contest to involuntary manslaughter stemming from the August 2024 crash on Lake Michigan Drive. An Ottawa County judge on Monday sentenced Oosterhouse to between 100 months and 15 years in prison. His drivers license was also forfeited. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court docs: Men admit to road rage in deadly crash The case against his co-defendant, Denis Noel Perez, 43, is pending, with a court appearance scheduled in two weeks. The pair were charged last August with second-degree murder, manslaughter and reckless driving causing death. According to court documents, on June 25, 2024, a Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Oosterhouse and a Dodge Charger driven by Perez were engaged in aggressive road rage style driving while traveling eastbound on Lake Michigan Drive. A crash eventually occurred between Perez and Oosterhouse, who are accused of driving well over the posted speed limit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That collision caused Perezs vehicle to hit a car in the westbound lanes near Trillium Drive. The head-on crash killed 27-year-old Sha-Tera Coleman of Grand Rapids. Members of the victims family addressed the court Monday prior to sentencing. During an earlier hearing, an Ottawa County deputy said both men admitted to engaging in a road rage incident for several miles. Oosterhouse also made statements that he was responsible for Colemans death and that he should lose his license. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. Elm Mott, Tx (FOX 44) A 36-year-old woman has been arrested after her boyfriend was seriously injured after being hit by a car. Jennifer Morosky was booked into the McLennan County Jail early Tuesday morning with a charge listed as being aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. A McLennan County Sheriffs Office spokesman said the investigation began July 13 when deputies were sent to Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Waco regarding an incident that had occurred in Elm Mott. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies contacted a male victim who told them he had been involved in an argument with his girlfriend while traveling from Robinson to Elm Mott. The victim said as the argument escalated, he got out of the car and began walking home. Deputies said the victim told them he was then struck by the vehicle, sustaining serious bodily injury. The victim said his girlfriend took him to the hospital, then left before deputies arrived. Deputies said several hours later, Morosky contacted the sheriffs office to report a domestic disturbance, saying she had been assaulted and that the victim had damaged her vehicle during the dispute. During subsequent interviews with deputies and investigators, Morosky gave a statement about the victim being accidentally struck by the front driver side of the vehicle. A Sheriffs Office statement said that following an investigation, detectives said it appeared Morosky was what they called the primary aggressor and obtained an arrest warrant for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon-family violence, a first degree felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Sheriffs Office spokesman said that early Tuesday morning, Morosky voluntarily surrendered at the McLennan County Jail where she was booked in without incident. By Tuesday afternoon, her bond was set at $25,000. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. LE MARS, Iowa (KCAU) A man was taken to the hospital on Monday after crashing a crop duster in rural Plymouth County. According to a release from the Plymouth County Sheriffs Office, Jonathan Gilland, of Elkton, Tennessee, had attempted to make an emergency landing while flying a crop duster in rural Plymouth County. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said that when Gilland landed the plane, the plane hit a rut in the field, causing the plane to overturn. The crash led officials to receive an iPhone crash alert, leading them to the scene of the crash at K22 and C16. The Le Mars Fire and Rescue department was dispatched to the scene to provide treatment to Gilland and decontaminate the area. Gilland was taken to a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. The incident is still under investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. A Venezuelan man has been indicted in federal court for distributing child sexual abuse material. Alexander Jose Barreto-Rodriguez was indicted on July 23 and arrested shortly after. According to federal prosecutors, he shared explicit videos of children using messaging apps in December 2024. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< Investigators say Barreto-Rodriguez also offered to arrange encounters with female children as young as 8 years old. His trial is scheduled for September 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He faces a mandatory minimum of 5 years and up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. NEWARK, Ohio (WCMH) A Licking County man who was arrested in South Carolina after allegedly killing another man at a Buckeye Lake bar pleaded not guilty. Richard Lindgren, 59, entered his not guilty plea on Monday and waived his Tuesday arraignment hearing in Licking County Common Pleas Court. A jury trial start date has been put in the docket for Oct. 6. He was indicted for aggravated murder, two counts of murder, felonious assault, and tampering with evidence in the fatal shooting of 42-year-old Benjamin Hawk on July 11 at Louies Corner House. Hawk and Lindgrens ex-wife were reportedly attending a karaoke event on the bars patio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ex-Columbus police officer who killed Andre Hill receives prison sentence Court documents said Lindgren approached Hawk from behind and shot him. Hawk was pronounced dead shortly after medics arrived and Lindgren immediately fled the scene. He was found in Orangeburg, South Carolina on July 12 and was arrested by sheriffs deputies. Lindgren was extradited to Licking County four days later and issued a $5 million bond in municipal court. Lindgren was previously charged with violating a protection order in January and was issued a bench warrant, along with a $2,500 bond, in February. After pleading not guilty, Lindgren changed his plea to guilty in April and on July 9, was granted an extension to pay $100, which he owed on his $400 fine for the guilty plea. The extension was set to expire on Sept. 12 with no further extensions granted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. NEED TO KNOW The NYPD identified Shane Devon Tamura of Las Vegas as the man who shot and killed four people before killing himself The victims included NYPD Officer Didarul Islam, a husband and father of two, who was off-duty at the time Islam's wife is pregnant with the couple's third child A Las Vegas man was identified as the gunman who shot at least five people, killing four and leaving another person critically injured, at 345 Park Ave. in New York City on Monday, July 28. One of the deceased victims was an off-duty police officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a press conference at Weill Cornell Medical Center in Manhattan, the NYPD identified the shooter as Shane Devon Tamura of Las Vegas. He was 27. The NYPD said the shooter had a documented mental health history. N.Y.C. Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch confirmed that surveillance footage showed Tamura exit a double-parked black BMW on Park Avenue between 51st and 52nd Streets, carrying an M4 rifle in his right hand. He then walked toward the building's entrance, alone. The building security camera footage shows the shooter enter the lobby, turn right, and immediately open fire on an NYPD officer. He then shot a woman who took cover behind a pillar and proceeded through the lobby while spraying it with gunfire. Tamura then made his way to the elevator bank, where he shot a security guard who was taking cover behind the security desk. One additional man was shot in the lobby, per his own statement from the hospital. The shooter then entered the elevator, which opened in the lobby. A woman exited that elevator, and he allowed her to walk past him unharmed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He went up to the 33rd floor, which houses Rudin Management, and began to walk the floor, firing rounds as he traveled. One person was struck and killed on that floor. He then walked down a hallway and shot himself in the chest, Tisch said. We believe this to be a lone shooter and there is no active threat to the public, says Tisch. The building in which the shooting occurred houses Blackstone Inc., the NFL's headquarters, financial and legal advisory firm KPMG, and several top law firms, including Loeb & Loeb LLP. Commercial giant Rudin Management owns the high-rise structure. It's not clear which organization, if any, the shooter was targeting. A motive remains unknown at this time. Taidgh Barron/ZUMA Press A screenshot from security camera footage obtained from NYC public safety sources showing an alleged gunman armed with an assault rifle outside 345 Park Avenue A screenshot from security camera footage obtained from NYC public safety sources showing an alleged gunman armed with an assault rifle outside 345 Park Avenue New York City Mayor Eric Adams identified the deceased off-duty police officer as Didarul Islam. Islam was a father of two whose wife is pregnant with their third child. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our hearts are heavy. Five innocent people were shot tonight," Adams said. "We lost four souls to another senseless act of gun violence, including a member of the New York City Police Department, Officer Islam." Islam served in the 47th precinct and was 36, Adams said. He was a 3-and-a-half-year veteran of the department. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf The mayor continued, "He protected New Yorkers. He's an immigrant from Bangladesh. And he loved this city. And everyone we spoke with stated, he was in person of faith, and a person that believed in God and believed and living out the life of a godly person. He embodies what this city is all about. He's a true-blue New Yorker." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was doing the job that we asked him to do, Commissioner Tisch said of Islam. He died a hero. The other victims were not identified pending family notification. One victim remains in critical condition. Four victims are being treated for minor injuries they sustained while trying to flee the scene," police said. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. "Our hearts go out to the victims of this horrific act and their families," KPMG said in a statement to PEOPLE. "We are incredibly grateful for the bravery of building security and law enforcement." Read the original article on People MEMPHIS, Tenn., A man was mauled to death by two stray dogs outside his Parkway Village home Monday morning. The mans wife was also attacked by the pit bulls, neighbors said had been roaming the area. Police said just before 11 a.m., officers responded to an animal injury in the 5000 block of Melanie Avenue. When officers arrived, they said Sharon Williams was lying in the front yard of the home, being treated by the Memphis Fire Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bojangles employee hit in face with rod as fight turns violent: MPD According to reports, when officers went to the backyard, Robert was lying on his back with two pit bulls aggressively standing over him. Parkway Village home Photo by WREG Officers said they fired shots at both of the dogs, killing them. One dog was located in the backyard near the Robert, and the other dog was in the front yard at a residence in the 2800 block of Curtis Street. ATF joins investigation of fatal shooting of football player The MFD transported Robert, who had multiple bite wounds, to Regional One in critical condition. He was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His wife was also treated for multiple dog bites on her legs and hip that may require surgery, but is expected to be okay. A neighbor told police that she did not see the incident but heard both victims screaming. And I was sitting at the foot of their driveway, and I looked and I could see the tail-end of a beige brown dog, so I was like ok, theres a dog on him, so let me go back in the house and I grabbed my phone and I called 911, said Patricia Randolph, neighbor. The fire department and a patrol car showed up, and Im yelling, theyre in the backyard! Theyre in the backyard! so the police ran back there and de-escalated the situation, said the neighbor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Memphis Animal Services arrived on the scene to remove the animals bodies and scanned them for microchips, but did not locate an owner. At Ridgeway Baptist Church, just minutes away from Robert and Sharons house, Senior Pastor, Mark LaRue reflects on the couple who were staples in the church choir. Robert played the bass guitar, Sharon plays the tambourine, and auxiliary percussion, sings in our pray team, they were both in the choir, said LaRue. I would encourage people who know Robert and who know Sharon to reach out to her, minister to her, pray for her, and just know that Robert is in the arms of the lord tonight, and were grateful for that, said LaRue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The familys neighbor said she would like to see the dog owners be held responsible. Its not fair to the rest of the neighborhood that youre a bad owner, now somebody has lost their life, because you were being negligent, and you can tell they belong to somebody. They didnt have a collar, but they were well fed, said Randolph. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. A former Hollywood Hills resident who went by names like Vincent Midnight and Director Vinchenzo pleaded guilty Monday to federal charges related to a cryptocurrency investment fraud scheme that prosecutors say cost victims more than $13 million. Vincent Anthony Mazzotta Jr., 54, now residing in Arizona, admitted to one count of money laundering and one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice. Prosecutors allege Mazzotta and his co-defendant, David Saffron, lured investors with false promises of high returns from automated cryptocurrency trading platforms and later doubled down on the deception by creating a fake government agency. The plea was announced by U.S. Attorney Bilal A. Essayli of the Central District of California. Mazzotta is scheduled to be sentenced on December 15 by U.S. District Judge Dale S. Fischer. He faces a maximum of 10 years in federal prison for money laundering and up to five years for obstruction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, Mazzotta and Saffron told victims their investments in companies such as Mind Capital and Cloud9Capital would be managed by artificial intelligence-driven trading bots. Instead, federal authorities say the pair operated a Ponzi-style scheme and diverted funds for personal use. After the original companies collapsed, Mazzotta and Saffron allegedly created a fictitious entity called the Federal Crypto Reserve (FCR). They then solicited additional payments from victims, claiming the FCR would investigate the failed investment firms despite the fact that Mazzotta and Saffron were behind those very companies. 38 neglected dogs found in California home; felony charges filed Vincent Mazzotta defrauded investors in a sophisticated cryptocurrency scheme and then doubled down by using a fake government entity to further victimize those who had entrusted him with their money, said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Departments Criminal Division. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Attorney Essayli warned of the dangers associated with rapidly evolving investment technologies. New types of investments such as Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies may seem alluring, but they also carry the risk of criminals using their relative novelty to prey on victims, Essayli said. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. After Saffrons initial arrest, Mazzotta worked with others to destroy evidence in an attempt to obstruct the federal investigation, prosecutors said. That included removing an iPad and contents of a safe from Saffrons apartment, as well as falsifying financial records from Mazzottas company, Runway Beauty Inc., to conceal his involvement. IRS Criminal Investigation led the probe. The defendants in this case purported to be U.S. governmental entities to legitimize their scams, said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher of the IRS-CI Los Angeles Field Office. Todays admission of guilt is another example of our resolve and unique ability to unravel complex financial transactions regardless of how sophisticated the scheme may be. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James C. Hughes of the Major Frauds Section and Justice Department trial attorneys Theodore Kneller and Siji Moore of the Criminal Divisions Fraud Section. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) An Albuquerque man pleaded guilty to a shooting that left one person dead and another injured in June 2024, according to the Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman. Jamil Lewis shot brothers Gerald and Edward Ibuado during a confrontation near Cochiti Road and Indiana SE in Albuquerque. 1 dead, 1 injured after shooting in Bernalillo According to the DA, Lewis and two other people were walking in the area when Gerald punched a person that Lewis was with because he reportedly owed Gerald money. Edward ran towards the fight, and Lewis started shooting multiple rounds at them, killing Gerald and injuring Edward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lewis was arrested a month later during an unrelated shoplifting incident, during which police discovered he was wanted for the murder. Lewis pled guilty to multiple crimes, including second-degree murder with firearm enhancement, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon with firearm enhancement, felon in possession of a firearm, and tampering with evidence. He now faces nearly 30 years in prison, the DA said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Things can get a little, uh, interesting when you share a similar name with a notorious sex trafficker. Just ask Geoffrey Epstein. The Massachusetts man is running for mayor in the Boston suburb of Framingham, population 70,000. His campaign materials, subtle as they are, practically demand a double-take: Geoffrey, who goes by Geoff, told HuffPost hes unsure if the added name recognition has helped or hindered his campaign to unseat incumbent Charlie Sisitsky. But hes fairly sure most locals dont really care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Either way, hes unwilling to cede the name to that other guy. No way, said Epstein, when asked if hed ever change his name. I like my name and I am proud of my family, he added, recounting his family history fighting in both Europe and the South Pacific in WWII. That other one is a dead American and I am a live Aussie, he said. But, of course, there is all the horrifying criminality and darkness of the other guy. I have lived my life trying to be straight up and improving things. Epstein didnt respond when asked if there are any files hed like to release. And while Jeffrey didnt graduate from college, Geoffrey has a Ph.D. in theoretical physics, with added experience in engineering, teaching, political activism and environmentalism. Geoffrey also wryly noted he was born on Sept. 11, which, like his name, also wont be changing anytime soon. Investigators believe that a man beheaded two kangaroos in a German zoo, police said on Tuesday. The kangaroos were found dead in their enclosure at the zoo in the city of Solingen in the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia shortly before Easter with their heads missing. The police had initially not ruled out an attack by a predator. It is now believed that the animals were beheaded with a knife or a similar object, a spokesman for the Wuppertal public prosecutor's office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video footage from the zoo reportedly shows a man gaining access outside of opening hours and specifically visiting the kangaroo enclosure. The public prosecutor's office is now considering launching a public appeal for information using the surveillance images. If it is possible to technically enhance the footage, they will seek the necessary court order. (FOX40.COM) A man was sentenced to 17 years and one month to life in state prison on Friday after he was found guilty on multiple charges, including intent to rape, according to the Sacramento County District Attorneys Office. Officials said that Juan Soto prowled the neighborhoods of Midtown, Elmhurst and Sandra Heights from January 2020 to July 2021. Video Above: What happens when you call 911? According to the victims, Soto would peek into their homes from outside. One of the victims said the man stood outside her bedroom window before entering her home and exposed himself while wearing womens underwear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He continued to expose himself as he approached the victims bedroom door, leading to her calling the police and Soto leaving the home. When officers arrived, cigarette buds with the suspects DNA were found, along with a pair of womens underwear. Man detained in Home Depot raid charged with damaging federal officers vehicle Another instance involved the suspect entering a home through an open window and pinning the sleeping victim to the bed. Soto ran away when the victim screamed, and police found his fingerprints and DNA on a windowsill, the attorneys office said. On June 12, Soto was found guilty of: Assault with intent to commit rape during a residential burglary. Residential burglary Indecent exposure in a residence Indecent exposure Five counts of peeking Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said the jury found true that Sotos actions were committed with planning and sophistication. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) A 22-year-old man has been sentenced to 90 months in federal prison for participating in a 24-hour violent crime spree. According to the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia, 22-year-old Christopher Light and three others went on a crime spree that consisted of using a gun to carjack people and committing armed robberies. Light pleaded guilty on March 24 to one count of carjacking and one count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DC police investigate shooting, carjacking in Northeast Court documents revealed Light and a co-conspirator ambushed a man in a Wharf District parking lot on Feb. 4, 2024, around 6:45 p.m. Light was armed with a handgun, while his co-conspirator possessed an AR-style weapon. The two threatened the man and took two of the mans gold chains with pendants, and his iPhone 15 Pro, later fleeing in a white Audi SUV. The following morning, Light and three others, driving the same white Audi SUV, pulled into the 900 Block of Thayer Avenue in Silver Spring, Md., and stopped two people in a Mercedes. Showing their weapons, Light and his co-conspirators ordered the individuals to hand over their belongings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the USADC, the group stole a GUCCI handbag, a Louis Vuitton wallet, a Bulgari watch, a gold necklace, a black Marc Jacobs bag, three cellphones and various identification cards and credit cards. Light and two others stole the Mercedes while the rest of the group left in the white Audi SUV. On Feb. 5, 2024, around 3 p.m., Light and a co-conspirator attempted to rob a man who was trying to withdraw money from an ATM in the 2000 Block of Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE. The two parked the same white Audi SUV and approached the man from behind, at gunpoint, and ordered him to give them the money. The man was able to flee from Light and his accomplice, with nothing being stolen. DMV Doers: Film, theatre producer paving way for adults with intellectual, developmental disabilities Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Light was arrested on March 25, 2024. According to the USADC, officers discovered an AM-15, multi-caliber pistol along with a black magazine containing 50 rounds of ammunition, in a freezer in Lights residence. In addition to Lights 90-month sentence, U.S. District Court Chief Judge James E. Boasberg ordered him to serve three years of supervised release. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. A man has been sentenced to death in Lebanon over the killing of an Irish soldier on a UN peacekeeping mission, BBC News NI understands. Pte Sean Rooney was in an armoured UN vehicle which came under fire while travelling to Beirut on 14 December 2022. The 24-year-old was the first Irish soldier to die while on UN peacekeeping duty in Lebanon in more than 20 years. Three others were injured in the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The main defendant in the case is Mohammad Ayyad. It is understood he did not appear in court on Monday. A number of other men were convicted in relation to the shooting. Unifil, the UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon, said Lebanon's permanent military court found six individuals who were charged over Mr Rooney's killing guilty. One person was acquitted. The death sentence was announced at a military tribunal in Beirut, according to Irish broadcaster RTE. Ayyad 'still at large' Taoiseach (Irish prime minister) Micheal Martin said that while he welcomes the conviction of the main defendant, "it is unsatisfactory that he is still at large". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Many will feel the sentences passed down on the other defendants are far too lenient," Martin said. "Peacekeeping is the most noble cause of all, and the role of the peacekeeper must at all times be honoured and respected," he said. Micheal Martin said peacekeeping is the "most noble cause of all" [Getty Images] The taoiseach noted that "this is a very difficult day" for Pte Rooney's family, in particular his mother Natasha. "Sean was a soldier of great courage, who put the safety of others before his own safety in the line of duty," Martin said. "He was brave and diligent. My thoughts and prayers are with Natasha, his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time." 'Made the ultimate sacrifice' Tanaiste (deputy Irish prime minister) Simon Harris said he welcomed the conviction of the main defendant and a number of other defendants, "who had not previously been in court". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "While noting the sentence handed down to the main defendant, I am disappointed and share the disappointment of Private Rooney's family at the lighter sentences imposed on a number of those convicted today," Harris said. The tanaiste said Pte Rooney "made the ultimate sacrifice in the noble pursuit of peace". "I appreciate that this is an incredibly difficult day for the family of Private Rooney. None of us can fathom their unimaginable pain and grief and all my thoughts remain with them at this time," the tanaiste said. Harris visited Beirut last March and met with the Lebanese Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Defence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he raised his "deep frustration at the slow pace of proceedings" before the Lebanese Military Tribunal regarding those charged with Pte Rooney's death. He said the court hearing date was brought forward from September to Monday. The taoiseach said "that the justice system in Lebanon, and the delay in progressing in this case, was deeply regrettable". Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Martin said "the court has made its decision". "We can't interfere in the operations of the court itself, but I think the whole process certainly left a lot to be desired," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unifil said it "welcomes the conclusion of the trial process and the Government of Lebanon's commitment to bring the perpetrators to justice". "Once again, we offer our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Private Rooney and the Government of Ireland." More on this story DENVER (KDVR) A man has been sentenced to life without the possibility of parole after a 2016 deadly stabbing inside a Colorado Family Dollar store. On Tuesday, the 17th Judicial District Attorneys Office sent FOX31 the sentencing announcement after Anthony Dennis Grayson, 51, was convicted of first-degree murder earlier this month for fatally stabbing Alejandro Alvear, a manager at a Family Dollar store on Pecos Street. Man convicted of 2016 stabbing in Adams County Family Dollar store Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the conviction of first-degree murder, District Attorney Brian Mason stated in a press release: This was a senseless act of violence in a public setting that cost a man his life, said Mason. Thanks to the excellent work of law enforcement, eyewitnesses, and our prosecution team, we were able to secure justice for Mr. Alvear and his family. On Sept. 1, 2016, the Adams County Sheriffs Office responded to reports of a stabbing at the store. One-time incident: Lauren Boeberts son summoned for child abuse charge When officers got to the scene, they found Alvear with stab wounds. He was transported to Denver Health Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead. Grayson was still at the scene, where police took him into custody. He was later charged with first-degree murder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DAs office had reported that surveillance footage showed, and witnesses said, that Grayson confronted Alvear, demanding money and threatening to stab Alvear. Shortly after, Grayson pulled a knife and stabbed Alvear multiple times. The case experienced delays due to Graysons competency, according to the DAs office, but Grayson was later found competent and chose to represent himself in trial. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A 33-year-old man was sentenced to prison Monday during a hearing at which the father of the woman he killed while driving drunk made an emotional plea for him to learn from the devastating effects of his actions. Gabriel Coronel received a prison term of seven years and eight months after pleading no contest to charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and DUI causing injury. He made no comment other than to confirm he agreed to the deal. In contrast, Adam Calvillo, the father of Rachel Calvillo, who died in the crash on Pioneer Drive, had plenty to say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calvillo said the pain he suffers from his daughters death will never go away. He told the court the impact of Coronels actions will last generations: his daughters children will spend the rest of their lives without their mother, and their children in turn will never know their grandmother. Speaking through tears, Calvillo turned his head and looked directly at Coronel as he said, Learn from this, please. Breath tests revealed Coronels blood-alcohol content at 0.12 and 0.13%, above the 0.08% legal limit, when his Chevy Traverse collided with a Honda Accord early on Feb. 17, 2024, according to California Highway Patrol reports. The crash happened east of Denison Lane. Three of four occupants in the Honda were found unconscious, including Calvillo, seated in the front passenger seat, according to the reports. She was later pronounced dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coronel told investigators the Honda veered into his lane, but physical evidence revealed the westbound Chevy crossed the yellow line and collided with the eastbound Honda. The driver of the Honda was also intoxicated, documents said, and was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor DUI charges. Adam Calvillo noted Bakersfield, and Kern County as a whole, rank among the highest in the nation when it comes to DUI rates. Thats a problem, he said. Its a big problem. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News. The Brief A man was shot and killed by deputies after an hours-long standoff on Tuesday near the University of Florida (UF) campus in Gainesville. Officials say the incident began when they tried to serve a narcotics warrant. No others were injured during the incident, and the campus has resumed normal operations. GAINESVILLE, Fla. - A man was shot and killed by deputies after an hours-long standoff on Tuesday near the University of Florida (UF) campus in Gainesville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said no others were injured during the incident, and the campus has resumed normal operations. What happened? What we know Officials shared a post on the school's alert page around 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, saying shots were fired near 102 NW 9th Terrace, Gainesville, Florida. The location is downtown and near the school's Human Resources building. It's about half a mile from the school's campus and near the Ansley Terrace Apartments and a Checkers restaurant. According to UF's X page, the incident involved a barricaded suspect and was contained by police. UF Alert-Gainesville: (102 NW 9th Ter) UPDATE: Shots fired incident involves a barricaded suspect and is contained by police. Continue to secure in place or avoid area. UF Alert (@UFAlert) July 29, 2025 Officials with the Alachua County Sheriff's Office (ACSO) said the incident began when deputies were serving a felony narcotics warrant at the location. When they approached the small apartment, they heard voices inside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies said the person they were looking for was in a bedroom with his girlfriend. He let the woman out of the apartment and then allegedly fired one round towards officers. SWAT teams were called in to assist with the situation, and officials began negotiations with the man. Gainesville Police and University of Florida Police also responded. As the standoff continued, officials said the man fired additional shots. The man was then shot and killed by deputies. Authorities said everyone else in the building made it out safely, and the area has been secured. CLICK TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX LOCAL APP The HR building will remain closed for the rest of the day, but normal operations have resumed on campus. UF Alert-Gainesville: (102 NW 9th Ter) Barricaded suspect is contained to off campus location. Continue to avoid the UF HR building, or secure in place. Normal operations may resume on campus. UF Alert (@UFAlert) July 29, 2025 What we don't know The identity of the suspect has not yet been released. Where is the University of Florida? Local perspective UF is located in Gainesville, Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The school is situated in north-central Florida, about two hours north of Tampa and two hours southwest of Jacksonville. SIGN-UP FOR FOX 35'S BREAKING NEWS, DAILY NEWS NEWSLETTERS The main campus address for UF is 222 Criser Hall, Gainesville. However, UF has several other locations, including the UF Innovation Station in Sarasota County and the UF Research and Academic Center at Lake Nona in Orlando. The UF College of Pharmacy also has campuses in Jacksonville and Orlando. Gainesville, University of Florida, campus entrance with students. (Photo by: Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) How many students attend the University of Florida? By the numbers According to UF, more than 61,000 students attend the school. UF has more than 16 colleges and 300 degree routes. The Source This story was written based on information gathered from the University of Florida (UF) website and shared by the Alachua County Sheriff's Office (ACSO). NEED TO KNOW A man in New York City's Midtown shot and killed five people, four of whom died, including a New York City Police Officer The shooting took place at 345 Park Ave., also known as the Blackstone building, where Blackstone, the NFL and other companies are located The police commissioner said the scene was contained Four people are dead, including an off-duty police officer, and another person injured after a gunman opened fire at 345 Park Avenue in New York City on Monday, July 28, police said. The gunman also died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gunman, now identified as Shane Devon Tamura of Las Vegas, was allegedly wearing a bulletproof vest and could be seen on camera armed with an AR-15 before he walked into the office building. The area was placed under lockdown until officials confirmed he had been "neutralized." N.Y.C. Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch confirmed in a post on X, that the scene had been "contained" and "the lone shooter" was deceased. Tamura allegedly shot himself on the 32nd floor of the building, but the scene remains active. During a press conference at Weill Cornell Medical Center in Manhattan, the deceased police officer was identified as 36-year-old Didarul Islam. The other victims were not publicly identified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We believe this to be a lone shooter and there is no active threat to the public, Tisch said during the press conference. TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty New York Police Department (NYPD) officers are seen as they respond to an incident in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York on July 28, 2025. New York Police Department (NYPD) officers are seen as they respond to an incident in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York on July 28, 2025. The building houses Blackstone Inc., the National Football League (NFL)'s headquarters, financial advisory firm KPMG, and several top law firms, including Loeb & Loeb LLP. Commercial giant Rudin Management owns the high rise structure. "Our hearts go out to the victims of this horrific act and their families. We are incredibly grateful for the bravery of building security and law enforcement," a KPMG spokesperson told PEOPLE. New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in a video shared on X, "New Yorkers, this is Mayor Eric Adams, and I'm here at the scene on 51st and Park Avenue. Unfortunately, we had a shooting here with multiple injuries," he began. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The perpetrator is neutralized at this time," Adams continued. "Those who are in the building, we are asking them to remain inside as police officers are doing a floor-by-floor search. We believe again, the perpetrator is neutralized at this time. We're going over to the hospital to speak with the family whose loved ones were involved in this incident." Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty New York Police Department (NYPD) officers are seen as they respond to an incident in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York on July 28, 2025. New York Police Department (NYPD) officers are seen as they respond to an incident in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York on July 28, 2025. The FBI is also responding to provide support at the active crime scene, according to an X post from Deputy Director Dan Bongino. This is a breaking story and will continue to be updated Read the original article on People WESTFIELD Last week, the Airport Commission appointed Dan Shearer, the current manager of the Pittsfield Municipal Airport, as the new manager of the Westfield-Barnes Regional Airport. Were very excited about having Dan here, said William Gonet, the chair of the citys Airport Commission. The commission searched nationwide to find a replacement for Chris Willenborg, who resigned as airport manager in April after five years to take a similar at Hanscom Air Force Base. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gonet said six candidates were chosen and after interviews, two were chosen for a final interview, which was held last week before Shearer was chosen. He said Shearer will bring several positive qualities to the citys airport. Hes a very energetic person and has a lot of enthusiasm, Gonet said. Shearer, he said, already is familiar with state politics and working with the states Department of Transportations Aeronautics Division. Hes done a great job at Pittsfield, Gonet said, adding that Shearer is from Western Massachusetts. Shearer has been managing the Pittsfield Municipal Airport for over five years but has extensive experience in airport operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before Pittsfield, Shearer served for five years as Cape Airs director of emergency response, hazardous materials officer, starting in February 2015 as the carriers manager of safety management systems in Hyannis, according to his LinkedIn profile. As the manager, he was responsible for coordinating the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of Cape Airs Safety Management System, according to his profile. Before Cape Air, Shearer spent nearly five years working with SeaPort Airlines, starting in 2011 in Alaska as acting director of flight control before moving to Portland, Oregon, to become the carriers director of safety, according to his profile. Shearer is also the emergency management director for Plainfield, which is where he grew up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I spent 10 years to find the right opportunity to come back, Shearer said referring to stops in Alaska and Oregon. Calling Pittsfield Municipal a steppingstone, he said it allowed him the opportunity to learn and create contacts with the Federal Aviation Administration, MassDOT, local and state agencies, and working with a municipality. Im not coming in after working at a big airport, he said. Having visited Westfield-Barnes, he was pleasantly surprised at how busy it was. Its a great airfield and theres a lot going on. Its constantly busy, he said referring to the 104th Fighter Wing of the Massachusetts Air National Guard base there, Gulfstream Aerospace, and the general hustle and bustle of an airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also noticed the number of aerospace engineering firms surrounding the airport. And hes admired the terminal at the airport since it was opened 2007. Its an amazing building, he said. Shearer graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a bachelors degree in safety science. He also earned a masters degree in safety, security, and emergency management from Eastern Kentucky University. Gonet pointed out the Shearer is the secretary of the Massachusetts Airport Management Association Inc., which is a nonprofit organization that advocates for safety, community relations, and innovation in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jeff Lovejoy has been serving as the interim manager since Willenborg departed. Gonet said Lovejoy will resume his position as the airports director of operations. Read the original article on MassLive. Gov. Greg Gianforte speaks at the grand opening of VACOMs headquarters in Lewistown in July 2025. (Provided by the Governor's Office) The manufacturing industry in Montana hit a growth milestone in Lewistown this month but experienced a closure in Bonner that leaves an estimated 100 employees without a job. Friday, a vacuum technology company based in Germany opened its new U.S. location in Lewistown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement VACOM drew praise from Montana politicians including Gov. Greg Gianforte, whose office said the new facility represents a $10 million investment in central Montana. VACOM describes itself as one of the leading European suppliers of vacuum technology. It also offers cleaning services for components for the semiconductor, chemical and pharmaceutical industries. In those sectors, even tiny contaminants can compromise performance. In a statement, Gianforte said VACOM, which employs 400 people, saw something special in central Montana. When companies choose Montana, theyre choosing more than just a place on a map, theyre choosing a state and a pro-business environment that supports job creators and the hardworking Montanans they employ, said Gianforte, a Republican, in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former state Sen. Dan Bartel said VACOM currently employs roughly 12 people in the cleaning sector alone in Lewistown and may hit 25 employees there by the end of the year. The Governors Office said VACOM expects to create as many as 500 good-paying Montana jobs and up to 50 high-tech jobs by 2027. The Governors Office did not respond to a question about salary ranges or a timeline for expanding the workforce, and representatives for VACOM could not be reached in time for this story. VACOM has planned an estimated $90 million investment in the state by 2030, according to the news release from the Governors Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, on Monday, UFP Industries announced to employees the closure of its UFP Edge facility in Bonner along with an estimated 100 layoffs. This is not an easy decision, said spokesperson Abby Mitch in an email. We wish this facility had worked out. Montanans grit and perseverance are among our core values at UFP Industries. We spent 5 years working together to make it work, but big-picture realities beyond our control made consolidation unavoidable. UFP Edge described itself as a leader in trim, siding and interior accents and one of the top building materials manufacturers in North America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have committed to our Bonner employees that we will prioritize internal candidates for open positions across the UFP family of companies, Mitch said in an email. UFP operates in 215 locations in nine countries, according to its website. It describes itself as North Americas largest buyer of softwood lumber and works in residential construction, retail building products and industrial packaging. In a news release late Monday, the Montana Department of Labor and Industry said it would hold an event Wednesday, August 6, to support affected workers and their families. (See details below.) *** Bartel, who has been in communication with VACOM the last few years as it contemplated locations in the U.S., said VACOM cleans the chips in cellphones as part of its work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said Lewistown won the relocation debate for its people, environment and lifestyle. The VACOM facility was expected to be 40,000 square feet and include a daycare for employees children and an education center for staff training. They believe that the workforce is here, and its the right type of people that they can educate to operate these new high-tech machines, said Bartel, a Republican and retired Lewistown legislator. He said the facility will join other small- and medium-sized manufacturing operations based in Lewistown. Itll fit Lewistown really well, and were really tickled that theyre going to be here, Bartel said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a news release about its opening, VACOM said it ventured across the Atlantic in 2020 when it opened its first U.S. location in Naples, Florida. It said the Lewistown site marks the next important milestone in meeting the growing demand from the U.S. semiconductor industry even better in the future. More than 100 people attended the official opening on Friday, VACOM said. In a prepared statement, VACOM CEO Jens Bergner said the new location sends a clear signal for long-term growth and transatlantic cooperation. Our decision for Montana was an easy one: Not only have we found a business-friendly environment here, but above all, exceptional people with an impressive work ethic and a strong community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Editors note: This story has been updated with information from the Department of Labor and Industry. Montana Department of Labor and Industry holds event to help workers This afternoon, the Montana Department of Labor & Industry (MTDLI) was notified of a layoff at UFP Edge in Bonner and is mobilizing resources quickly to support impacted workers and their families through this transition, the agency announced in a news release. MTDLI will host a rapid response event to support UFP Edge employees affected by the layoff, their families, and impacted community members. The event is designed to help laid-off workers quickly access resources needed for re-employment in the community and to learn about assistance during the transition period. Montanans are defined by their resilience and powerful work ethic, said Commissioner Sarah Swanson. In the face of disruption, our responsibility is to stand shouldertoshoulder with hardworking peoplemaking sure they have every tool, opportunity, and resource to regain stability and continue contributing their skills to Montanas economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Staff from the Department of Labor & Industry will be onsite to: Assist with filing Unemployment Insurance (UI) claims Provide guidance on dislocated worker programs and retraining options Help employees connect with local employers and job search resources Answer questions about available workforce support services Event Details What: UFP Edge Layoff Rapid Response Event Who: Montana Department of Labor & Industry Rapid Response Team When: Wednesday, August 6, at 9 a.m. Where: Hilton Garden Inn Missoula, 3720 N Reserve St, Missoula, MT 59808 Important Information for UFP Edge Employees: To ensure you remain eligible for Unemployment Insurance and dislocated worker assistance under federal and state law, do not voluntarily resign from your position prior to the effective date of the layoff. Quitting may affect your eligibility for benefits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the federal WARN Act and Montana law, you have specific rights and protections during this transition. Attending the rapid response event will help you understand these rights and learn about resources available to you and your family. Source: Montana Department of Labor and Industry Even though Hamas was supposedly defeated and down to one brigade and a few battalions, it suddenly was able to re-appear in northern Gaza with thousands of fighters. The Israel Defense Forces have been fighting Hamas as part ofOperation Gideons Chariots since mid-May. The operation was approved in early May as part of the response to the ceasefire not being renewed in March. Now it appears that the IDF has retaken around seventy-five percent of Gaza. However, it should be recalled that the IDF believed it had largely defeated Hamas last year as well. Now the IDF has once again defeated several Hamas brigades in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yossi Yehoshua, writing at Ynet, noted that fighting eliminates senior Hamas terrorists, three brigades, destroys terror infrastructure, reshaping Gazas battlefield, yet the wars end remains elusive. The reference to three brigades is interesting. After the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, it was believed that Hamas had around 30,000 fighters, organized in five brigades. These included 24 battalions or 140 companies of fighters. The brigades include the Rafah Brigade, the Khan Younis Brigade, the Central Camps Brigade, and two brigades in northern Gaza. Now lets unpack some math. By late November 2023, the IDF was already saying that it had defeated the Hamas battalions in northern Gaza. These included at least 10 battalions. By mid-January 2024, the IDF estimated it had eliminated 9,000 Hamas fighters, which included two brigade commanders killed, 19 battalion commanders, and 50 company commanders. Members of the Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas and mourners attend the funeral of Al-Qassam fighters who were killed during the war between Israel and Hamas in the Al-Shati camp, in Gaza City, February 28, 2025. (credit: Khalil Kahlout/Flash90) The IDF kept up this rosy assessment in the spring of 2024. The Washington Post reported in late March 2024 that 20 of the Hamas 24 battalions had been dismantled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By April , as the report noted, Israeli officials have said that 18 of Hamass 24 original battalions in the Gaza Strip have been dismantled, meaning they do not function as an organized military unit, although smaller cells still exist. The IDF went into Rafah in May and defeated more Hamas units. By late May 2024, the Rafah Hamas brigade and battalions were defeated; IDF says terrorists near defeat in Rafah, fighting now limited to one neighborhood, The Times of Israel reported. Even though Hamas was supposedly defeated and down to one brigade and a few battalions, it suddenly was able to re-appear in northern Gaza with thousands of fighters. The IDF went back into Jabaliya and northern Gaza between October and December 2024. Hamas was, once again, defeated there after some 70,000 civilians had to leave. Hamas had strengthened in August 2024, CNN reported. It rebuilt brigades and returned to some areas. It recruited more people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From January to March 2025, there was a ceasefire in Gaza. The IDF resumed limited operations in March and April 2025, returning to a border buffer zone, parts of the Netzarim corridor, and also Khan Younis. The Morag corridor was created in southern Gaza. By mid-May, the IDF was ready to launch a much larger operation against Hamas with elements of five IDF divisions. When this Gideons Chariots operation began, the IDF also began enabling humanitarian aid again. On May 26, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation began delivering food as well. Nevertheless, the IDF has had to redefeat Hamas units. First, it had to defeat them in Rafah again. After having eliminated some 900 Hamas fighters in the spring and summer of 2024, it seems that Hamas returned. Or perhaps Hamas never left. The offensive in Gaza has reached its stated goals and - unless the government decides to expand it - as it awaits a new Hamas response to the efforts of mediators to secure a ceasefire and hostage release deal, the IDF will hold the lines assigned to them, Yehoshua wrote on July 29. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He noted that 41 IDF soldiers have been killed since mid-May. "They died in a war to defeat three Hamas brigades and in the effort to free the hostages, a commander was quoted as saying by Yehoshua. He also noted that Mohammed Sinwar was killed in the last several months, depriving Hamas of yet another commander. In addition, the Rafah brigade commander, Mohammad Shabana, was killed. Another 8 battalion commanders and 39 Hamas company commanders were killed. Many of these units have already replaced their commanders once or twice during the war. Rafah no longer exists Yehoshua adds, The Gaza Strip has been transformed: Rafah no longer exists, neither above nor below ground, with the IDF destroying all terror infrastructure and tunnels in the city. Much of Khan Younis, except for a sensitive area and a humanitarian zone, has met a similar fate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In northern Gaza, from Beit Hanoun through Beit Lahia and Al-Atatra to the outskirts of Gaza City, little remains. This was not a series of raids and withdrawals but a methodical, systematic operation, albeit slow. Hamas appears to continue to recruit. Its forces are mostly confined to the 25 percent of Gaza that Hamas continues to control. It controls the Central Camps area: Deir al-Balah, Maghazi, Nuseirat, and Bureij. It also has forces in Gaza City. The rest of Gaza is ostensibly controlled by the IDF. Around two million Gazans have been evacuated to the areas that Hamas controls, as well as the Mawasi humanitarian area near Deir al-Balah in southern Gaza. As such, Hamas can draw on these 2 million people for recruits. Most Gazans are young, with many under the age of 25. This means Hamas just needs to recruit a few percent, and it has many forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israels Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer posted on July 28 a clip on X where he speaks with former US Ambassador David Friedman. This was apparently from a segment that was posted on July 24 as part of the One Jewish State podcast. No outside force will be able to take control of Gaza if there are still 20,000 Hamas terrorists running around the territory. No investor will rebuild Gaza if Hamas remains, and things could flare up again. This is our opportunity to put Gaza on a different track and ensure security for decades to come, Dermer noted in his July 28 post. If Hamas still has 20,000 men, that would appear to indicate that it has made up for many of its losses in 2023 and 2024. It has lost many brigades and battalions, but continues to refill the ranks. The new recruits may not be able to replace the hardened terrorists who planned October 7. Nevertheless, Hamas has not collapsed. A Belfast woman with cerebral palsy has told the Covid-19 Inquiry that living alone in sheltered accommodation during the pandemic without direct contact with family was "really frightening". Giving evidence on behalf of Disability Action, Joanne Sansome said staff shortages in the care sector meant many of her friends were stuck in bed for days without direct care. Ms Sansome, who campaigns on behalf of those with disabilities, said she stopped counting the days when she reached 700. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She described how no one really explained to those with disabilities what was happening and how their lives would be impacted by the virus. Ms Sansone claims staff in her home lacked PPE, with those in the care sector being treated unfairly [Getty Images] The inquiry heard how Fridays soon became known as fabulous Fridays when her dad left treats for her and all those living within her sheltered accommodation including the staff. However, she said the care sector was not treated the same as other areas of health care, which became visible with the lack of personal protective equipment (PPE). At one point, Ms Sansome reached out to contacts at Queen's University Belfast to access PPE when staff in her home did not have enough. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was crazy at that time. I kept thinking of my friends who lived by themselves in their own homes and how they were stuck in bed for days because of the shortages," Ms Sansome told the Inquiry. "There were days that you weren't guaranteed a shower or full care. Staff did their best but going forward things like that need to be planned for." Ms Sansome, who flew to London to attend the inquiry in person, described how her laptop became her visual window to the world and how it allowed her to communicate with family and friends. During the summer of 2020, she attended a daily virtual summer camp for disabled people located in America which she said she had always wanted to go to and, albeit virtually, the pandemic let her do that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said ensuring those with disabilities could communicate was essential and providing people with tools such as laptops should become part of any future preparation for another pandemic. When asked by counsel to the inquiry how disabled people were treated differently Ms Sansome said when care staff tested positive it affected the entire sheltered dwelling with everyone told to isolate, even if they tested negative. When that happened at Christmas and Ms Sansome was told by the Public Health Agency that she would have to stay alone in her apartment she rang an MLA who intervened. As a result, most of her neighbours were allowed to go home to their families to eat Christmas dinner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freedom Day 2022 (the end of lockdown rules on 19 July 2022) according to Ms Sansome was not freedom day for all as restrictions were not lifted for those who were clinically vulnerable, which Ms Sansome said was unfair. Ms Sansome said she felt the announcement was made as an election was approaching. "The cynical side of me felt it was only announced by politicians to look good," she told the inquiry. "They always said they were following the science, but I was never too sure what was science and what was political spin." CARTHAGE, Mo. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon and the annual Marian Days celebration is expecting a record-breaking crowd. In Carthage, preparation begins weeks, and even months, in advance. They say it is the biggest year yet possibly. They always estimate between the eighties sometimes up toward 100,000 people but they are not really sure so we are estimating a record breaking crowd, said Eric Miller Police Lieutenant. This year marks the 46th annual Marian Days event. Its a 4-day festival in Carthage for Vietnamese Catholic communities to come together in celebration and worship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: How much does Marian Days boost the economy of Carthage and nearby towns? Even though Marian Days doesnt officially start until this Thursday Father John Paul Tran says people started showing up for the event last week, This year they came Wednesday and stayed. Put their camps, set up their camps and stayed here. I asked them why so early and they said because they anticipated the big crowd because of the Jubilee Year and the 50th anniversary of the Pope. So thats why, said Father Tran. Father Tran says this festival is only made possible because of the support they receive from surrounding communities welcoming Vietnamese Catholics from around the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Support that allows them the freedoms that come with being in America. The opportunity to thank the people around the city of Carthage and Joplin for supporting us and helping all the pilgrims that come with open arms. That allows us to have the freedom to celebrate this big event, said Father Tran. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. Marine veterans Matthew Kolakowski and Derrick Perry played a major role in helping to stop a man who had stabbed several people at a Walmart near Traverse City, Michigan, over the weekend. Both individuals were instrumental in the detaining of the individual until law enforcement could arrive, Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea told Task & Purpose on Tuesday. Bradford James Gille faces charges of terrorism and assault with intent to murder after allegedly using a 3-and-a-half-inch knife to stab 11 people at the mall on July 26, a Grand Traverse County Sheriffs Office news release says. Gille pleaded not guilty at his arraignment on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kolakowski, an Iraq War veteran, was at the Walmart with his 13-year-old daughter, her friend, and his brother-in-law when the attack began, CNN reported. After telling the children to stay where they were, Kolakowski rammed Gille with an empty shopping cart and then lifted the cart in an attempt to hit the attacker with it. Gille got away, but Perry confronted the man by pointing his personally owned pistol at Gille. Video of the scene shows Perry and three other men walking towards Gille as one of them shouts: Drop it! Throw the knife that way! Throw it away! Throw it away! Grand Traverse County Sheriffs Office began receiving calls at 4:43 p.m. from people reporting that a man at the Walmart had a knife, and a deputy arrived at the scene three minutes later, the sheriffs office posted on its Facebook page. At the time of the deputys arrival, multiple citizens, including one who was armed with a pistol, were confronting the male suspect in the parking lot and preventing him from harming further people and from leaving, the post says. The deputy took the suspect into custody without further incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kolakowski enlisted in the Marines in September 2004 and went on to become a landing support specialist, according to his official service record. He deployed to Iraq from August 2006 to March 2007, and he left the Corps as a corporal in September 2008. His last duty assignment was with Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, Camp Pendleton in California. Top Stories This Week Culture Top Air Force enlisted leader apologizes for uniform slip-up Top Air Force enlisted leader apologizes for uniform slip-up By Jeff Schogol Culture An Army pilot and mechanic switched units for a week. Heres how that went. An Army pilot and mechanic switched units for a week. Heres how that went. By Patty Nieberg News Air Force Global Strike Command suspends use of M18 pistol after airmans death Air Force Global Strike Command suspends use of M18 pistol after airmans death By Jeff Schogol His military awards include the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. Perry served from October 1994 to June 1995 as a basic operational communicator, leaving the Corps as a private first class, his service record says. His last duty assignment was listed as the School of Infantry at Camp Pendleton, California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Task & Purpose was unable to reach Kolakowski or Perry for comment on Tuesday. Investigators have not determined what Gilles motive for the attack may have been, according to a news release from the sheriffs office. Gille has a history of prior assaultive incidents as well as controlled substance violations, the news release says. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel thanked the good Samaritans along with local law enforcement officers and others who responded to the attack, posting on X that their quick action undoubtedly saved lives. On Tuesday, Perry issued a statement through the sheriffs office describing himself as a proud citizen of Traverse City. I just wanted to do right by my community and help where there was a problem, Perry said in the statement. I am just like any other member of the community. I wasnt looking to be heroic. I just wanted to help my neighbors. I cant take all the credit as there were other courageous individuals who were also standing up to the attacker too. I appreciate the outpouring of thanks and love from the public. Right-wing firebrand Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) condemned the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as horrific on Sunday, as concern over widespread hunger in the territory has mounted after nearly two years of Israels war. I can unequivocally say that what happened to innocent people in Israel on Oct 7th was horrific, Greene wrote on social platform X. Just as I can unequivocally say that what has been happening to innocent people and children in Gaza is horrific. This war and humanitarian crisis must end! The United Nations warned Sunday of catastrophic hunger in the besieged enclave, where access to humanitarian aid has been tightly controlled by an Israeli- and U.S.-backed nonprofit since May. Palestinians have reported being shot at by Israeli troops as they have attempted to make their way to limited aid sites. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greene has at times broken from her caucus with her criticisms of Israel. In the same social media thread Sunday, she said: I tried to cut funding to Israel, Jordan, and other countries as well as cut needless foreign aid. All my amendments failed because Congress refuses to stop their addiction to America last insane spending. It was a reference to when the Georgia Republican proposed during defense appropriation votes in mid-July slashing $500 million in American aid to Israels air defense system, an effort that garnered only six votes in the House. President Trump said Monday that there was real starvation happening in the territory and said that the United States would assist with food centers in the territory. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, however, has come under considerable criticism. A group of Senate Democrats wrote Monday that the United States should urge Israel to revert to aid distribution run by the United Nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) became the first congressional Republican to label the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip a genocide on Monday after President Donald Trumpacknowledged that Palestinians are starving. Greenes comment came within a larger criticism of a colleague, Rep. Randy Fine (R-Fla.), who spoke approvingly of the deteriorating situation in Gaza. Release the hostages. Until then, starve away, Fine wrote on social media last week, adding that he considers the increasing evidence of widespread famine in the region to be a lie. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even Trump was moved to say there is real starvation occurring in Gaza as a result of Israels nearly two-year war in retaliation for the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on civilians that was instigated by fighters from the Palestinian militant group Hamas, who took hostages back to Gaza. Its the most truthful and easiest thing to say that Oct 7th in Israel was horrific and all hostages must be returned, but so is the genocide, humanitarian crisis, and starvation happening in Gaza, Greene wrote on X, formerly Twitter. But a Jewish U.S. Representative calling for the continued starvation of innocent people and children is disgraceful, she said. His awful statement will actually cause more antisemitism. Greene has also fueled antisemitic tropes in the past, most notably in a now-deleted 2018 Facebook post that suggested a link between the wealthy Jewish Rothschild family and wildfires in California prompting ridicule for what her critics called her Jewish space lasers theory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her choice of words, however, makes her unique among congressional Republicans. Trump said during his visit to Scotland on Monday that he had been disturbed by images and reporting he had seen on television of the worsening situation in Gaza. Israel, which controls entry to Gaza and patrols its coastline, has for months been blocking aid from reaching over 2 million Palestinians there. Photos of exhausted, skeletal children have begun to surface on front pages around the world. One child reportedly weighed less upon her death than when she was born. You cant fake that, Trump said of the images. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like Fine, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has flat-out denied that Palestinian civilians are starving to death. Israel has for months claimed that Hamas, which controls Gaza, is misusing shipments of food and supplies, although The New York Times reported over the weekend that Israeli officials know there is no evidence to support that assertion. Asked Monday if he agreed with Netanyahu, Trump responded, I dont know. I mean, based on television, I would say not particularly, he went on. Because those children look very hungry. I remember the first time I met Randy Fine when he was a candidate before he barely won Floridas deep red 6th district seat, as we were being told he might actually lose the seat because the strong Trump district couldnt relate to him and didnt like him. He was telling me that https://t.co/rdGDBNDszl Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) July 29, 2025 Related... Marjorie Taylor Greene says she is not going to run for governor. The Georgia Congresswoman took to social media on Tuesday, saying she was always dismayed by constant rumors about me and people who claim I am doing things. If I was running for governor, the entire world would know it because I would be all over the state of Georgia campaigning, I would have ads running, I would be raising scary amounts of money, and I would literally clear the field, Greene said. Im always dismayed by constant rumors about me and people who claim I am doing things, yet have not spoken to me about anything I am doing or not doing. If you have not heard it straight from me, then it is likely not true. If I was running for governor the entire world would Marjorie Taylor Greene (@mtgreenee) July 29, 2025 Greene said she has many concerns for Georgia, but said the good ole boy system and the established Men Only Republican firm have left her uninterested in pursuing a run for governor at this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One day, I might just run without the blessing from the good ole boys club or the out-of-state consulting leeches or even without the blessing of my favorite President. One day, I might just run purely out of the blessing of the wonderful people of Georgia, my family and friends, but it wont be in 2026, Greene said. In the meantime, youll find me in the beautiful hills of Northwest Georgia and fighting with all my might in the House of Representatives for the people who elected me. TRENDING STORIES: Greene had already ruled out a run for Senate as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Currently, there are five candidates who have thrown their hats into the governors race in 2026. On the Republican side are current Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and current Attorney General Chris Carr. On the Democratic side, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, current state Sen. Jason Esteves, and the Rev. Olu Brown have announced they are running. The Marshall City Band will perform a concert at 8 p.m. Friday on the Clark County Courthouse lawn as part of the "Night Out" activities. Heather Setzer will direct the City Band. The concert will include a variety of favorite songs that include El Capitan, Disneys The Little Mermaid, Shenandoah, Scottish Ayre, Instant Concert, Fright Night, Trumpets Ole, Shrek, Its the Gospel, "Symphony of Sitcoms, Let the Spirit Soar and the closing The Star-Spangled Banner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Along with the weekly Farmers Market in Marshall, there will be family-friendly and all-ages activities at Marshalls "Night Out," which begins at 5 p.m. Admission is free and includes hot dogs, chips and water. Also participating will be the Marshall Police Department and Fire Department, Marshall Ambulance, Clark County Sheriffs Department and Military. A free VR experience, bounce houses and night swim at the Marshall Community Pool will be open to all. The Farmers Market is hosted by Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce and runs 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. each Friday around the courthouse square before each concert. There are also Marshall Historical Tours that begin at 6:30 p.m., meeting on the north side of the courthouse. Also scheduled are an ice cream social, sponsored by Optimist Club, and the Lions Club antique popcorn wagon. There will be commemorative band ornaments, honoring the bands rich 150th anniversary, and may be purchased during the concerts for $10 each. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. From left, Sen. Angela Alsobrooks, Reps. Sarah Elfreth, Johnny Olszewski and Kweisi Mfume, Sen. Chris Van Hollen and Rep. Glenn Ivey wait outside ICE offices in Baltimore. (Photo courtesy Sen. Chris Van Hollen's office) Six members of Marylands congressional delegation were turned away Monday when they showed up to inspect a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office in Baltimore where they said people are being temporarily held for deportation or awaiting court hearings. Democratic Sens. Angela Alsobrooks and Chris Van Hollen and Reps. Johnny Olszewski Jr. (D-2nd), Sarah Elfreth (D-3rd), Glenn Ivey (D-4th) and Kweisi Mfume (D-7th) entered the George H. Fallon Federal Building, where the ICE detention facility is located. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a joint statement, the lawmakers said the visit was part of their oversight responsibility as members of Congress, and that they were exercising our legal authority to inspect the Baltimore federal holding facility, and, if necessary, speak directly with detainees. But they were denied entry by an ICE official who told the lawmakers that it was an office, not a detention facility, and that they were not authorized to to enter, even though they wrote the head of ICE and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem last Monday to alert them to the visit. Despite the claim that its just an office, Alsobrooks said previous visits by congressional staffers, and a court brief filed by Maryland Attorney General, indicate that immigrants are being held for several days at a time in hold rooms at the facility. Those rooms are designed to hold detainees for up to 12 hours while awaiting a court appearance, but are not meant for longer stays, lawmakers said. They are breaking the law in there, Alsobrooks said. She said the official they encountered refused to say who gave the order to bar lawmawkers from the building. A representative from ICE didnt respond to requests for comment Monday. But Rep. Andy Harris (R-1st), the only Republican in the states congressional delegation, derided what he called the sit-in stunts for cameras, after several of the lawmakers saw down in front of the ICE office doors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spare us the show. We stand with ICE and their mission to keep Maryland safe, Harris said in a social media post. Alsobrooks did not respond to Harris post directly, instead chiding him for not using his influence with the White House to secure federal disaster relie for Western Maryland flood victims, which was rejected last week by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. We share a responsibility to the people of Maryland, she said. It would be great to be able to get his assistance in getting the disaster relief that people need. The Baltimore office recently held Eastern Shore pastor Daniel Fuentes Espinal, an undocumented immigrant from Honduras with no criminal record, who was arrested last week and has since been transferred to the Winn Correctional Center outside New Orleans. Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Beltsville resident arrested and erroneously deported to El Salvador before being brought back to in Tennessee, where is currently being held, also started his journey in the Baltimore office in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers said Mondays visit was a follow-up to a March visit by Alsobrooks and Van Hollen staffers that found overcrowding of up to 54 people in holding rooms, no infirmary or medical staff on-site, with ICE staff making sandwiches themselves or buying McDonalds to feed detainees. Attorney General Anthony Brown (D) filed an amicus brief in June outlining the conditions in Baltimore and limited access to counsel and basic hygiene. Alsobrooks noted that some of the ICE agents were walking around that building with masks on. The inhumanity and cruelty is an ongoing theme of the people who are treated inside that building. Theyre walking around that building with masks on, she said. The inhumanity and cruelty is an ongoing theme of the people who are treated inside that building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawmakers said that federal law gives members of Congress the explicit right to conduct unannounced oversight visits to DHS [Department of Homeland Security] detention facilities. No prior notice is required, and no agency has the authority to obstruct that legal responsibility. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Ivey, who traveled in El Salvador in May in an unsuccessful attempt to visit Abrego Garcia, said he wasnt shocked when was refused a visit there, because officials in that country dont have the longest history of democracy there and arguably, dont have it right now. But this is unbelievable, that they [ICE officials] would turn us away from this building here in the United States to see our constituents, Ivey said Monday in a news conference in front of the building. Not only that, the power of the purse under the Constitution gives us the authority and the obligation to conduct oversight, to make sure moneys being spent wisely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crisaly De Los Santos, director of CASAs Baltimore and Central Maryland office, called the ICE decision to prevent members fo Congress from touring the building outrageous. Although federal lawmakers are legally afforded jurisdictional oversight of all ICE facilities, Baltimore ICE unlawfully denied access underscoring that the Trump regime is escalating its denial of restraints and the proper oversight role of the legislative branch, De Los Santos said. Imagine, if members of Congress can be treated so poorly by ICE, what is happening in our streets to you and me? Maryland Matters reporter Sam Gauntt contributed to this report. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A Newport man is facing several charges after allegedly robbing a grocery store at gunpoint on Sunday. According to Newport police, officers responded to the South Beach Grocery store just after 3:45 p.m. after receiving a report that a man had robbed a clerk at gunpoint. Police were initially unable to locate the suspect. Review of surveillance footage showed a lone male subject walk into the store with his face covered with a makeshift mask. The suspect pointed a handgun at the clerk, demanded the money from the register and a specific pack of cigarettes, before fleeing on foot, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 8 a.m., 31-year-old Josh Devries was spotted near Hwy 101 and SW Angle Street, where he was arrested and charged with robbery, theft, menacing and unlawful use of a weapon. He was lodged in the Lincoln County Jail. The incident is still under investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. A Lowell man has been arrested in connection with payroll tax avoidance and workers compensation insurance fraud, the U.S. Attorney said this week. Henry Lam, 67, was arrested Monday. A federal grand jury indicted Lam on June 25 on charges of failure to collect and pay over taxes and mail fraud, U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said in a statement. According to court records, between 2016 and 2023, Lam owned and operated HL Temporary Services a temporary employment agency in Lowell that served client companies in Massachusetts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The client companies paid HL Temporary Services for the temporary employees work on an hourly basis. Lam allegedly cashed these clients checks at check cashing businesses in Massachusetts and paid the temporary employees primarily in cash, prosecutors allege. By using cash payments, Lam allegedly hid over $6.1 million in payroll and avoided paying more than $2.4 million in required payroll taxes, prosecutors allege. Prosecutors also allege that Lam used HL Temporary Services false payroll numbers to obtain workers compensation insurance at lower premium rates. If convicted of the charge of failure to collect or pay over taxes, Lam faces a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater, and restitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If convicted of the charge of mail fraud, Lam faces a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater, restitution, and forfeiture. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW All nine members of Massachusetts U.S. House delegation have called on trash hauler Republic Services to reach a deal with striking Teamsters, ending a work stoppage that has caused garbage to pile up across Greater Boston this month. The letter, led by Democratic U.S. Reps Ayanna Pressley and Stephen Lynch, whose 7th and 8th Congressional District seats span Boston, and Seth Moulton, D-6th District, of Salem, underlined the sweat equity of its employees, and the need for good wages and benefits. Every community deserves high-quality municipal services, including waste management, but not at the expense of a competitive wage and comprehensive benefits, the lawmakers wrote to Republic CEO Jon Vander Ark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Union workers, represented by Teamsters Local 25, walked off the job on July 1. And so far, efforts to reach an agreement on a new contract have been unsuccessful. Last week, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said the city would begin fining Republic directly, instead of impacted business, for uncollected trash. The Democratic mayor said the ongoing work stoppage is taking an unacceptable toll on Bostons residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. In their letter to Vander Ark, the Bay State lawmakers also urged a swift resolution to the strike, calling on officials to return to the bargaining table in good faith and without delay, to negotiate a contract that reflects the dignity of this work, one that ensures fair pay, quality benefits, and a safe workplace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A new contract, they continued, is an opportunity for the company to acknowledge the vital role your company, through the sweat equity of your employees, plays in our communities, and to bring wages and benefits in line with industry standards. The striking workers stand ready to return to work and continue to be the face of your company in the communities that rely on them, they concluded. Top elected leaders across the state, including Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, state Treasurer Deb Goldberg, and state Auditor Diana DiZoglio, also have called on Republic to reach an agreement and end the walkout. Our elected leaders in Massachusetts have stepped-up more than any other state Ive ever seen, sticking with us and not backing away at any time during this fight for fairness and equity, Teamsters Local 25 President Tom Mari said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement earlier this month, Republic said it was committed to reaching an agreement that provides our employees with market-leading pay and benefits. The company accused the unions leadership of being focused on disinformation and disruption. More on Politics Read the original article on MassLive. NEW YORK The killing of a New York City cop is quickly becoming a problem for Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani. Two hours after NYPD officer Didarul Islam and three others were shot to death in Midtown Manhattan on Monday, Mamdani did what most elected officials do: he offered his thoughts to the victims and gratitude to first responders. His initial social media response, which was delivered from Uganda where he was vacationing, immediately came under fire with critics attacking his past calls to defund the police and urging him to forgo the sentiment. His second response, also posted on X, acknowledged Islams death, but did so 11 hours after it was first reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani is facing his first full-blown crisis on his way to the general election, which is just four months away. He is now contending with a timeworn tradition in New York City politics the recriminations that almost inevitably follow a civic trauma and the expectation that elected leaders be present when such a rupture occurs. This is a reality check: public safety is literally a matter of life and death, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Mamdanis leading general election rival, said Tuesday in an interview with POLITICO. His positions when it comes to public safety are abhorrent and wholly disconnected from any responsible government approach. Mamdani shocked the political world a month ago with his primary defeat of Cuomo, who was heavily favored to win. The democratic socialists victory stemmed in large part from his unrelenting focus on affordability, an issue that remains on the front burner for voters. But the death of a New York City police officer has a way of shifting the political focus, and that dynamic especially stands to help incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, a retired NYPD captain who ran and won on a public safety platform in 2021. Both Adams and Cuomo are now running as independents and trail Mamdani in recent general election polling. Islams family expects to hold a public funeral, according to the NYPD Muslim Officer Society. And funerals for murdered police officers have in recent years posed a challenge for elected leaders in the city. The widow of slain NYPD Officer Jason Rivera criticized Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg from the pulpit in 2022. And thousands of cops turned their backs on former Mayor Bill de Blasio after the 2014 killings of Wenjian Liu and Rafael Ramos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neither politician could reasonably be blamed for those deaths, but the emotionally charged ceremonies inevitably became political, replete with messages of whos with the fallen officer, and who isnt. Mamdani and certainly his supporters are going to have to be careful about how they engage this, said Basil Smikle, Democratic political strategist who teaches at Columbia University. Its at moments like this where defund the police nobody wants to hear that. Since making his defund calls years ago, Mamdani has moderated his positions on policing, saying he has no plans to defund the NYPD. His platform instead pushes to reduce the departments billion-dollar overtime budget and create a Department of Community Safety that would assume some responsibilities now handled by police, like responding to mental health emergencies. Still, Mamdani will face additional scrutiny for supporting slashed police budgets, according to Democratic strategist Lupe Todd-Medina. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where hes going to have issues involving unfortunate incidents like the killing of a police officer, it will resurface his support for defund the police, she said. Thats where hes going to have that disconnect not just with New York City residents, but with the NYPD itself. Todd-Medina didnt fault Mamdani for being out of the country, but she added mayors are expected to be on call when a crisis strikes like Rudy Giuliani following the Sept. 11 attacks. If theres one area New Yorkers expect our mayors to step up is during a crisis. Because were a big city, our mayors have personality, they're bigger than life and we expect a bigger-than-life result, she said. Its how you respond and how you react to it. Mark Botnick, a former adviser to Mayor Michael Bloomberg, suggested Mamdani should already be held to that standard, given his run. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is reminiscent of Karen Bass being MIA during the wildfires except this time its Zohran Mamdani, who is asking New Yorkers to elect him as mayor, vanishing during a crisis in his own city, Botnick said, referring to the Los Angeles mayor. For every other moment of the campaign, his highly skilled social media team has been quick to drop a video but now, radio silence. A single tweet doesn't cut it. You can't run New York from a different time zone. If this is how he shows leadership in a crisis, hes already shown why he doesnt deserve the job." Cuomo was eager to draw a contrast between himself and Mamdani over the trip. He takes a two week vacation. I worked for 16 years, I never took a two week vacation. I never even heard of taking a two week vacation, Cuomo said, referring to his years as governor and state attorney general. Hes very good at telling other countries how to run their other business, but then he goes to Uganda where they murder gay people. So the constant is the phoniness. And New Yorkers detect phonies. We do that instinctively, Cuomo added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani was born in Uganda and has previously criticized the governments anti-gay policies in social media posts, but did not publicly distance himself from the government during his trip. Mamdanis campaign said Cuomo was politicizing the tragedy. "Families across our city are mourning including members of our Muslim community grieving an officer who leaves behind his pregnant wife and young children. Multiple victims remain in the hospital, fighting for their lives, Mamdani campaign spokesperson Zara Rahim said in a statement. Our focus is on supporting those whove lost loved ones and bringing our communities together in the face of tragedy. This is a moment for compassion and solidarity not cheap shots in the press." Islams identity as a Bangladeshi immigrant and Muslim could ease the political dynamics for Mamdani, who is seeking to be the first Muslim mayor of New York City. Muslim and South Asian voters rallied around the candidate with unprecedented energy, and Mamdani could attend a Muslim funeral with a familiarity unlike any of his rivals even if Mamdani, the son of a filmmaker and anthropologist, comes from a different social strata. Adams has been eager to point out that fact, casting the race as a contest between a candidate with a blue collar" and one with a silver spoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani was already scheduled to return to New York on Wednesday morning from his vacation in Uganda and plans to address the shooting, campaign spokesperson Dora Pekec said, adding that he will of course hope to attend Islams funeral. The democratic socialist has previously taken to X to criticize the NYPD, calling repeatedly and explicitly for the department to be defunded, and generally criticizing it and its officers. In a social media exchange that critics have widely promoted since Islams death, Mamdani wrote in 2020 that Nature is healing in response to the remark: I JUST SAW A COP CRYING IN HIS CAR LMAOOOO. Cuomo highlighted Mamdanis past posts ahead of the primary, printing them on posterboards for a press conference with the mother of a boy shot in the Bronx in 2018. How are you going to get a police force to work for you? Cuomo asked. That message didnt prevent Mamdani from winning the primary but itll come up again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youre Andrew Cuomo or Eric Adams, youre going to absolutely use that as a tool to say hes not prepared to run this city, hes not serious about going after criminals, and hes not supportive of police, Smikle said. Cuomo doubled down on his criticisms of Mamdani on Tuesday afternoon. Can you stop every crime? No. But do you save many lives by stopping crimes? he said. What you can do is have the best police force in the country. That is what you must do. And everything he has said has been the exact opposite: defund, dismantle, theyre racists. Prominent Mamdani critics like Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik also slammed Mamdani on X Monday night for his defund support as a disgrace and truly unfit to be mayor of New York City while highlighting one of his 2020 posts backing police budget cuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul on Tuesday defended Mamdani, who she is yet to endorse, against Stefanik, who is planning to run for governor next year. Thats about as pathetic as it gets, Hochul said of Stefaniks statement during a CNN interview. Seriously, going after an unelected official who said something back in 2020 when many people were? I mean, cmon. Ask her the question: What are you doing to keep your constituents safe? Mamdanis other general election rivals avoided such direct criticism in the hours after the shooting. Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa blamed police understaffing. But the alleged shooter Shane Tamura only briefly exposed himself as he walked from his car to the Park Avenue office building where he shot five people and himself, according to NYPD officials. We just dont have enough police. Theres 31,000 cops, we need at least 40,000 cops, Sliwa said in an interview with News12 Tuesday. And theyre spread too thin. We need to hire more cops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adams himself rushed to the scene. He maintained a solemn, measured tone across the Monday night press conference and a series of media appearances Tuesday. While hes often contrasted himself with defund the police Democrats before, Adams instead focused on gun control touting his administrations own record seizing firearms and calling for stricter laws on a federal level. Adams faces a difficult path to reelection against the surging Mamdani who is leading every general election poll. Still, the tragedy serves to highlight the mayors support for the police department at a time when hes running, once again, on public safety. This helps Adams because it makes him appear that hes the one who has the pain, and is seeking to stabilize things, said Hank Sheinkopf, a retired cop and political consultant whos running an anti-Mamdani super PAC. Its a trauma that impacts every New Yorker, because when a cop gets shot, it makes people feel like it could happen to anyone. FALL RIVER, Mass (AP) Massachusetts assisted-living home had certification suspended in 2016, numerous violations before fatal fire. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) Questions about Jeffrey Epstein and President Donald Trumps relationship are growing. This comes just weeks after the U.S. attorney general and the Trump Administration shared they would release investigative files on Epstein. Congressman Richard Neal says that no one contributed more to the notion of the conspiracy than the president, and now hes trying to walk back things that he previously said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Trump gives details about his falling out with Jeffrey Epstein President Trump, who is in Scotland on Monday, told reporters that he cut ties with Jeffrey Epstein after Epstein stole people who worked for him. Earlier this month, the U.S. attorney general requested that federal judges unseal transcripts from the grand jury investigation of Jeffrey Epstein. That request was denied. 22News asked Congressman Neal whats included in the documents and whether Congress will vote to release them. I dont think anybody has any idea, but I think whats happened is that the base of the Republican Party, they want the documents released, and I think that thats changed the formula, Congressman Neal said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche met with Ghislaine Maxwell and her attorney just last week. His motive was to question Maxwell on what other individuals may have been a part of the sexual abuse. There is a House committee looking into the Epstein files, and Democratic lawmakers are pushing for a subpoena. Whether Congress can depose Maxwell is also in discussion. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. As Massachusetts legal crisis rages on, two sides remain far apart In May, Massachusetts Bar Advocates refused to take on new court-appointed cases in a dispute with the state over money. Weeks later, it does not appear that the two sides are close to settling the crisis. They just wont meet with us, and to say they are negotiating. I dont know who they are negotiating with, but they are not negotiating with the bar advocates, thats for sure, Boston defense attorney Elyse Hershon spoke with Boston 25 over Zoom Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hershon is part of the movement to increase the rate the state pays court-appointed lawyers for the indigent by $35 an hour, to bring the rate in line with neighboring states. In late May, Bar Advocates stopped accepting new cases, leaving poor defendants without lawyers. As a result, unrepresented suspects have been released from jail and more than a hundred cases dropped. Attorney Hershon says bar advocates are at a breaking point. Its offensive what they are paying us and thinking well continue to go to work and do the same job without any substantial increase for years and years and years. It wouldnt happen in any other field, Hershon said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the State House Monday, Senate President Karen Spilka flat out told bar advocates to get back on the job. I strongly urge the bar advocates to get back to work. They are being paid. They continue to be paid, conversations are happening. People are hurt, Spilka said. Were working, so them telling us to go back to work, is meaningless, Hershon responded. Attorney Hershon told me bar advocates are independent contractors, not state employees. And she said they are still representing people who cannot afford lawyers on their own. It shows either the legislature doesnt know whats going on, or they are choosing to use incorrect terminology and directing us to do something they dont have the power to do. We are not employees of the state, or anybody, Hershon said Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I checked with the Governors office and legislative leadership on Tuesday. It does not appear that the two sides are close to reaching a settlement. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW BOSTON (AP) A Massachusetts man was sentenced Tuesday to 26 months in prison for attempting to stab a flight attendant in the neck with a broken metal spoon and trying to open an airliners emergency door on a cross-country flight. Francisco Severo Torres, of Leominster, pleaded guilty in May to one count of interference and attempted interference with flight crew members and attendants using a dangerous weapon in the March 2023 disturbance on United Airlines Flight 2609 from Los Angeles to Boston. U.S. District Court Judge Patti Saris sentenced Torres to time served, which was just over 2 years. He also will be on supervised release for five years, during which he is prohibited from flying on a commercial aircraft. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to prosecutor and witness accounts, Torres went on a midair rant and tried to stab a crew member with a modified metal spoon. The plane was about 45 minutes from Boston when the crew received an alarm that a side door on the aircraft was disarmed, according to court documents. One flight attendant noticed the doors locking handle had been moved. Another saw Torres near the door and believed he had moved the handle. Cabin pressure during flight prevents airplane doors from opening. Torres started loudly rambling that his father was Dracula, that he wanted to be shot so he could be reincarnated and that he would kill everyone on board, one passenger said. He punched a male flight attendant, who felt the metal spoon in Torres hand hit him on his shirt collar and tie three times, according to court documents. No one was injured. Torres was eventually subdued and restrained by other passengers. He was arrested when the flight landed at Boston Logan International Airport, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lawyer for Torres could not be reached for comment. Torres has spent time in mental health facilities, according to court records. The police chief in his hometown said officers have dealt with him several times since 2014, mostly over family issues and mental health episodes. During one court appearance after his arrest, a federal judge ruled that Torres was not competent to stand trial and that he needed additional treatment. Magistrate Judge Judith Dein based her decision on a mental health evaluation of Torres and her own observations. FRAMINGHAM, Mass. (WPRI) Massachusetts State Police unveiled a statue over the weekend honoring Frankie, who was killed in the line of duty in 2022. K-9 Frankies Handler Sergeant David Stucenski (Courtesy: Massachusetts State Police) The bronze statue was put up in front of the state police headquarters in Framingham, paying tribute to Frankies nine years of service. This memorial provides an important, dedicated space to celebrate the life of K-9 Frankie and reflect on the enormous contributions of K-9s and their handlers to the mission of the State Police, said Colonel Geoffrey Noble. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would like to thank those who made this special project a reality, he continued. Its presence on our Framingham campus fulfills our collective promise to remember and honor the fallen heroes among us both in the immediate aftermath of a tragedy and in the years that follow to ensure we never forget their service. Frankie was shot during a standoff at a home in Fitchburg. He was rushed to an animal hospital and became the first dog to do so under Neros Law, which allows first responders to treat and transport injured police dogs. Despite lifesaving efforts, Frankie did not survive. He is the first and only Massachusetts State Police K-9 to be killed in the line of duty. He was also honored as part of the 2023 National K-9 Memorial Commemoration in Washington, D.C. (Courtesy: Massachusetts State Police) (Courtesy: Massachusetts State Police) Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Diana Koshyks friends said the 23-year-old struggled to get pregnant and suffered several miscarriages before she and her husband finally got the news they were hoping for: they were expecting. Doctors said the pregnancy was high risk, so Koshyk was sent to what she believed was the safest place for her and her baby the maternity hospital in Kamianske in eastern Ukraine. Early on Tuesday morning, the Russian military struck the hospital with a ballistic missile, killing Koshyk, her unborn child, and two other people. At least 22 were injured, including several nurses and midwives, a doctor and patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Koshyks sudden death, at a time when she was so filled with hope, shocked her loved ones. She and her husband wanted a child, but she had miscarriages and then life smiled at her and she got pregnant, and she was already seven months, and then this happened, Koshyks friend of 10 years, Yana Belobrova, told CNN. Another longtime friend, Anna Bunich, described Koshyk as a ray of sunshine. She loved children very much and was eagerly awaiting her own and now Russia cut their thread of life, Bunich told CNN. The maternity hospital in Kamianske was one of several clearly civilian targets that were struck by Russia just hours after US President Donald Trump announced he was slashing the 50-day deadline for Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war to just 10 or 12 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to reporters in Scotland on Monday, Trump indicated his patience with Putin was running out. We thought we had that settled numerous times, and then President Putin goes out and starts launching rockets into some city like Kyiv and kills a lot of people in a nursing home or whatever, Trump said, threatening to impose secondary sanctions on Russias oil and gas exports if his demand is not met. A hospital in Kamianske was hit by a Russian missile on July 29, 2025. - Mykola Synelnykov/Reuters Ukraine welcomed the new deadline, saying that Putin only responds to shows of strength. Clear stance and expressed determination by (Trump) right on time, when a lot can change through strength for real peace, Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky said on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Trumps new deadline did not deter Russia from launching deadly attacks. At least 27 civilians were killed across Ukraine overnight into Tuesday morning, an exceptionally high death toll even considering the big rise in the number of drones and missiles Russia has been launching towards Ukraine recently. Five people were killed when a rocket launcher strike hit a small food store in the village of Novoplatonivka in Kharkiv region and 16 civilian inmates died in an attack on a prison in Zaporizhzhia region. Zelensky said the deadly attacks show Russia has no interest in peace. The Russian leadership is wasting the worlds time by talking about peace while simultaneously killing people, he said, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every killing of our people by the Russians, every Russian strike at a time when a ceasefire could have long been in place, if not for Russias refusal all of this shows that Moscow deserves very harsh, truly painful, and therefore just and effective sanctions pressure. But the Kremlin seemed unphased by the new threats. We have taken note of President Trumps statement yesterday, Putins spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Tuesday. The special military operation continues as before, he added, using Moscows term for its war on Ukraine. CNNs Daria Tarasova contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com An attorney for Ghislaine Maxwell said she would only speak with the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee if granted immunity an idea the panel swiftly rejected. The panel last week subpoenaed Maxwell, an associate of Jeffrey Epstein, compelling her testimony amid demands on the Trump administration to release files from the financier who killed himself while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Maxwells attorney, David Oscar Markus, noted that she has filed an appeal before the Supreme Court and her testimony to the committee could jeopardize efforts to overturn her 2021 conviction for sex trafficking children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As you know, Ms. Maxwell is actively pursuing post-conviction relief both in a pending petition before the United States Supreme Court and in a forthcoming habeas petition. Any testimony she provides now could compromise her constitutional rights, prejudice her legal claims, and potentially taint a future jury pool, Markus wrote. Public reportsincluding your own statementsindicate that the Committee intends to question Ms. Maxwell in prison and without a grant of immunity. Those are non-starters. Ms. Maxwell cannot risk further criminal exposure in a politically charged environment without formal immunity. A spokesperson for the committee immediately ruled out any grant of immunity. The Oversight Committee will respond to Ms. Maxwells attorney soon, but it will not consider granting congressional immunity for her testimony, committee spokesperson Jessica Collins said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Markus had said Maxwell would testify if a fair and safe path forward can be established. Beyond a grant of immunity, Markus also asked for questions to be shared in advance and for any deposition to take place after the Supreme Court weighs Maxwells petition. To prepare adequately for any congressional depositionand to ensure accuracy and fairnesswe would require the Committees questions in advance. This is essential not only to allow for meaningful preparation, but also to identify the relevant documentation from millions of pages that could corroborate her responses, he wrote. The letter then made an indirect reference to a possible pardon, something Markus has said he has not yet sought from President Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of course, in the alternative, if Ms. Maxwell were to receive clemency, she would be willingand eagerto testify openly and honestly, in public, before Congress in Washington, D.C., Markus wrote. Markus said without any of those arrangements, Maxwell would plead the fifth. House Oversight Democrats did not respond to comment Tuesday but had backed the move from Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) earlier this month to subpoena Maxwell. Oversight Democrats just unanimously voted to subpoena Ghislaine Maxwell, Jeffrey Epsteins partner, House Oversight Democrats wrote on the social platform X after the vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is progress. We will not stop fighting until the Epstein Files are released. Trump and Bondi must stop blocking the American people from the truth, they wrote, referencing Attorney General Pam Bondi. Burchett said he understands the committee not caving to demands for immunity. Her attorneys are doing what her attorneys supposed to do, getting her the best deal, Burchett told The Hill. Theyre trying to cut some time off her 20 years. But she is the gatekeeper, and she realizes it. He said he does not have concerns about her credibility, adding that there should be plenty of documentation to back up what she says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A bunch of politicians calling somebody a liar is kind of rich. I mean, thats just the pot calling the kettle black, you know? I mean, were not a bunch of pedophiles, but we cant stand in judgment of anybody on the truth train, he said. Shortly after Burchetts motion, the same panel also voted to subpoena the Justice Department for the Epstein files, as well as several other figures from Democratic administrations: President Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former FBI Director James Comey, former Attorney General Loretta Lynch, former Attorney General Eric Holder, former Attorney General Merrick Garland and former FBI Director and special counsel Robert Mueller. Epstein ran with high-powered figures, including those in politics as well as Trump. The Wall Street Journal reported that Bondi has told Trump that he is referenced in the Epstein files. Republicans have mixed feelings about the value Maxwells testimony would provide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some view the convicted sex trafficker as the key to unlocking additional information about the Epstein saga such as revealing other high-powered abusers of young women who have not yet faced legal consequences for their crimes, or other arrangements Epstein had that enabled the abuse. But others warn that Maxwell, who was complicit in the abuse and previously faced perjury charges (on which she was not convicted), is not a reliable witness and deserves no special treatment. The Justice Department reignited the Epstein furor when it released a memo concluding the financier died by suicide and did not keep a client list. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche last week flew to Tallahassee, Fla., where Maxwell is serving her 20-year sentence, undertaking two days of questioning with her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This Department of Justice does not shy away from uncomfortable truths, nor from the responsibility to pursue justice wherever the facts may lead, he said ahead of the meetings. Updated at 3:55 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Ghislaine Maxwell has said she will testify freely to Congress if Donald Trump frees her from jail. Lawyers for Maxwell, 63, agreed that she would appear before the House Oversight Committee, as long as she could see what questions they planned to ask her about her links to the paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, in advance. She also asked that she receive legal immunity for any future convictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her lawyer requested that Maxwells questioning take place after the Supreme Court rules on her appeal for her 2021 sex trafficking conviction. Alternatively, her lawyer said, she would speak freely and openly to Congress right now if the president grants her clemency. Maxwell was last week subpoenaed to answer questions before Congress about her late boyfriend, for whom she was convicted of sex trafficking underage girls, meaning she would have been forced to appear in the coming months, anyway. Ghislaine Maxwell was jailed for helping Jeffrey Epstein recruit underage girls for sexual abuse Our initial reaction was that Ms Maxwell would invoke her Fifth Amendment rights and decline to testify at this time, David Oscar Markus, her lawyer, said in a letter to James Comer, the committees Republican chairman ,which was shared with The Telegraph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added: After further reflection, we would like to find a way to cooperate with Congress if a fair and safe path forward can be established. Mr Markus wrote that his client cannot risk further criminal exposure in a politically charged environment without formal immunity. He said that to prepare adequately for any congressional deposition and to ensure accuracy and fairness we would require the committees questions in advance. David Oscar Markus, Ghislaine Maxwells lawyer - Colin Hackley/AP Photo His letter continues: In the alternative, if Ms Maxwell were to receive clemency, she would be willing and eager to testify openly and honestly, in public, before Congress in Washington, DC. She welcomes the opportunity to share the truth and to dispel the many misconceptions and misstatements that have plagued this case from the beginning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this week, Mr Markus wrote to the Supreme Court urging it to look at Maxwells 2021 conviction on sex trafficking charges, arguing that a non-prosecution agreement with Epstein dating from 2008 prevented her subsequent prosecution. Plea and non-prosecution agreements resolve nearly every federal case. They routinely include promises that extend to others co-conspirators, family members, potential witnesses, he wrote to the court. If those promises mean different things in different parts of the country, then trust in our system collapses. The case of Epstein, who was found dead in his New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges, has continued to reverberate after his death. It has presented a challenge for Mr Trump, who was elected to a second term with a promise to release any outstanding evidence from the case. Many of his supporters believed senior Democrats and other powerful people would be revealed to be at the heart of a child sex trafficking ring. Ghislaine Maxwell was sentenced to 20 years in jail in 2022 for helping Jeffery Epstein sexually abuse young girls When the Department of Justice announced earlier this month there was no client list and the FBI was recommending there be no further release of material, there was outcry among some. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the president was one of Epsteins many high-profile associates, who also included former president Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew, Mr Trump has said he broke off contact with him 20 years ago. When the Wall Street Journal published what it said was a bawdy note from Mr Trump to Epstein for his 50th birthday, he denied having done so and said he was suing the paper and its owner Rupert Murdoch. Last week, Todd Blanche, the deputy attorney general who was previously Mr Trumps private lawyer, interviewed Maxwell for more than nine hours. Amid reports that the daughter of newspaper baron Sir Robert Maxwell, was seeking a pardon, some of Epsteins victims said it would be an act of betrayal to give one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked about a potential pardon, Mr Trump told reporters in Scotland over the weekend: Well, Im allowed to give her a pardon, but I nobodys approached me with it. He added: Nobodys asked me about it. Its in the news about that, that aspect of it, but right now, it would be inappropriate to talk about it. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The Brief NYC proposes new rules to hold delivery apps accountable for street safety. Companies would train workers, provide safety gear, and issue unique IDs. The rules aim to protect pedestrians, cyclists, and delivery workers. NEW YORK - New York City Mayor Eric Adams and the city's DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez have announced new proposed regulations to improve street safety for cyclists and pedestrians. Why you should care The rules are part of the citys plan to launch the Department of Sustainable Delivery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Smoking marijuana in NYC should be 'relegated to certain areas', Adams says Under the proposed rules, delivery app companies will be required to register with the Department of Transportation, assign unique identification numbers and ID cards to their workers for enforcement purposes, and ensure that delivery workers receive safety training and proper equipment. The goal is to hold these companies accountable for safer practices on city streets. What they're saying "Our administration is committed to creating safer, more sustainable streets for everyone from delivery workers to pedestrians to cyclists to drivers," Mayor Adams said in a news release. "These proposed rules are a major step forward in holding delivery app companies accountable and ensuring delivery workers have the equipment, protections, and visibility they need to stay safe. This is a public-safety issue and a quality-of-life issue that affects all of us, and today, we are finally taking the steps to address both." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In the absence of legislation to address these public safety concerns, we are stepping up to help safeguard the lives of these delivery workers and everyday New Yorkers endangered by unsafe delivery conditions," said First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro. "We continue to call upon the City Council to pass comprehensive legislation making the delivery apps directly responsible for unsafe conditions created by their business practices, but we are doing now what we can by rules to make our city safer." "These tech giants created the wild west of e-bike riding on our streets, pressuring vulnerable, hard-working delivery workers to make fast and unsafe deliveries," said DOT Commissioner Rodriguez. "Its time to hold the big delivery apps accountable and protect all New Yorkers and well be doing so through these new rules and enforcement powers through the new Department of Sustainable Delivery at DOT." Dig deeper The proposed rules, set to be published in the City Record, aim to establish a system of accountability for delivery app companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These companies would be required to provide safety training and equipment to their workers, as well as assign each worker a unique identification number. This ID must be clearly displayed on reflective clothing, such as vests, provided by the company. Additionally, app companies will need to report the types of devices their workers use for deliveries, allowing the DOT to evaluate their safety. Noncompliant companies will face penalties. The Source The information in this story comes from an official announcement by New York City Mayor Eric Adams and DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, detailing proposed safety regulations for delivery app companies. MCLEAN COUNTY, Ill. (WMBD) With the new school year coming soon, the McLean County Health Department is giving parents the chance to vaccinate their children. The health department is offering back-to-school vaccine appointments, according to health department spokeswoman Marianne Manko. She also said the health department is encouraging parents to plan to meet Illinoiss minimal immunization requirements for children enrolling in school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Manko said the following back-to-school immunizations are available: Normal hours for vaccine appointments at MCHD (must make an appointment): Mon-Wed 8:20 a.m. 3:40 p.m. Late hours for back-to-school vaccine appointments at MCHD (must make an appointment): Mon, Aug. 11 9:20 a.m. 4:40 p.m. Mon, Aug. 18 9:20 a.m. 4:40 p.m. Walk-in back-to-school vaccine clinics (no appointment needed): Wed, July 30 9 a.m. 4 p.m. at Western Avenue Community Center, 600 N. Western Ave, Bloomington (last walk-in for vaccines taken at 3:30 p.m.) Fri, Aug. 1 9 a.m. 4 p.m. at Danvers Township Building, 898 N. West St., Danvers (last walk-in for vaccines taken at 3:30 p.m.) Tue, Aug. 12 8 a.m. 12 p.m. and 1 4:30 p.m. at the health department. (last walk-in for vaccines taken at 3:45 p.m.) Wed, Aug. 13 8 a.m. 12 p.m. and 1 4:30 p.m. at the health department. (last walk-in for vaccines taken at 3:45 p.m.) Manko said if parents are not sure which vaccines their child has had in Illinois, they can visit the Illinois Vax Verify web page. If their child received vaccines in another state, they will have to check that states public health department website for a similar portal. She said schools will often list specific vaccine requirements and deadline dates on their website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information, call the McLean County Health Department Immunizations Office at (309) 888-5455, or visit the MCHD Childhood Immunizations webpage. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (WMBD) The McLean County Chamber of Commerce announced on Monday that its president has been elected to serve on a national board. Charlie Moore, President & CEO of McLean County Chamber of Commerce, will serve on the board of directors for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, chamber spokesperson Madison Noble said. The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives is a Virginia-based association that works with more than 1,300 chambers of commerce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are pleased to welcome Charlie Moore to the ACCE Board of Directors, said Sheree Anne Kelly, ACCE president & CEO. Charlies expertise and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to adapt to meet an ever-evolving business environment. Navigating unprecedented dynamics and complexities requires catalytic leadership to ensure momentum and economic vitality within our communities. Moore has served as President & CEO of the Chamber since 2008. The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives helps members identify community trends and share best practices for communities. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. McNeils legal team wants convictions tossed, officer fired and arrested William McNeil Jrs legal team is demanding their clients convictions tied to his controversial arrest be thrown out. The now-viral video of the February arrest shows McNeil being hit in the head by an officer at least twice, which resulted in McNeil sustaining a brain injury, according to his legal team. But just one day after that now-infamous arrest, McNeil pleaded guilty to driving with a suspended license and resisting without violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a press conference in Chicago on Tuesday, McNeils legal team announced they plan to fight to have those convictions overturned. How can he enter into a plea when he has a closed head injury, suffering from a concussion, and cant even remember his name? said McNeils attorney, Harry Daniels. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] The attorneys also renewed their demands for Officer Donald Bowers, the JSO officer seen hitting McNeil in the now-viral cell phone video, to be fired and criminally charged. They have chosen to try to criminalize this young man when the Jacksonville Sheriffs Department officers were the criminals on that day, said McNeils attorney Ben Crump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The State Attorneys Office quickly cleared Bowers and all other officers involved in the arrest of any criminal wrongdoing after the cell phone video of the incident was released earlier this month. According to the State Attorneys Office, a memo which will explain why McNeil was never interviewed as part of its review of the officers conduct and the reasoning behind its determination will soon be released. Along with their demands for accountability and the reversal of McNeils convictions, McNeils legal team said it is exploring other legal options, including a civil rights lawsuit against JSO. JSO is not commenting any further due to that threat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the outcome of the agencys internal investigation into Officer Bowers conduct during the arrest is pending, Sheriff T.K. Waters has argued the situation could have been avoided if McNeil had complied when asked to exit his car. Its important for the people to know that you dont, youre not allowed to resist when hes doing his lawful duties. Its been dealt with several different times, said Waters during a press conference last Monday. McNeils legal team has argued their client was simply exercising his constitutional rights when pulled over for a reason they believe lacked any legal merit. Sheriff Waters has argued the reason for the stop is an argument that could have been debated after the fact and there is no legal right refuse a lawful command after being placed under arrest. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] MADISON COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) A traffic switch has been planned for U.S. 49 in Madison County after excessive heat caused several roadway buckles to form. According to the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT), traffic is temporarily being placed in a head-to-head configuration on U.S. 49 northbound due to the roadway buckles on U.S. 49 southbound. Extreme heat causes highway to buckle in Madison County Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crews will place traffic in the new configuration on July 29. This will take place on U.S. 49 between 1st Street and Petrified Forest Road. After a roadway buckle formed in the left lane of U.S. 49 last week that resulted in a temporary lane closure, MDOT officials said another buckle has formed in the right southbound lane in the same area due to excessive heat, resulting in a temporary shutdown of the southbound side of U.S. 49. Part of a highway in Madison County buckled due to the extreme heat conditions. (Courtesy: MDOT) A traffic switch has been planned for U.S. 49 in Madison County after excessive heat caused several roadway buckles to form. (Courtesy: MDOT) A traffic switch has been planned for U.S. 49 in Madison County after excessive heat caused several roadway buckles to form. (Courtesy: MDOT) A traffic switch has been planned for U.S. 49 in Madison County after excessive heat caused several roadway buckles to form. (Courtesy: MDOT) Officials said the head-to-head configuration will allow traffic to continue traveling both north and south on the northbound side of U.S. 49 as crews work to repair the affected areas in the coming weeks. Drivers should slow down, eliminate distracted driving, use caution and be on high alert for roadside crews and signage as repairs are made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. KANSAS CITY, Mo. First responders in Johnson County, Kansas saved a man and several kittens from carbon monoxide poisoning. On Friday at 6:50 p.m., a Johnson County MED-ACT crew and the Lenexa Fire Department were called to the Kitty City Kansas Rescue at 12800 Santa Fe Trail Drive in Lenexa. Man faces capital murder charge in deadly shooting of Wyandotte County deputy When the ambulance crew arrived, they found a 23-year-old man inside the business unresponsive. MED-ACTs carbon monoxide detector alarm went off immediately upon entering the building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crew was able to remove the man, treating him outside in fresh air. He was treated and released from a local hospital. Emergency crews were aware that a kitten rescue was in the shared building and called for additional support to help evacuate the kittens from the building and help mitigate the carbon monoxide issue. Luckily, everyone made it out safe and crews made some furry friends along the way. MED-ACT is reminding everyone to be cautious when using equipment that produces carbon monoxide gas. It is a colorless, tasteless and odorless gas that can be a silent killer. MED-ACT advises everyone to install carbon monoxide alarms on every floor of your house, in a central location outside of sleeping areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Use portable generators and other equipment outdoors in well ventilated areas away from doors, windows and vents. Check vents on appliances such as dryers, furnaces and stoves to be sure they are free from debris. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. President Donald Trumps new deadline for Russia to end the conflict with Ukraine is an additional "step towards war," according to former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Medvedev, now the deputy chairman of the Security Council of Russia, cautioned that Trumps announcement Monday that Russia must end the conflict with Ukraine in 10 to 12 days would not end well for the U.S. "Trump's playing the ultimatum game with Russia: 50 days or 10 He should remember 2 things: 1. Russia isn't Israel or even Iran. 2. Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country," Medvedev said in a post on X on Monday. "Don't go down the Sleepy Joe road!" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump Meets With Uk Prime Minister Starmer On Heels Of Eu Trade Deal Russia's deputy head of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev takes part in a wreath laying ceremony marking Defender of the Fatherland Day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the Kremlin Wall in Moscow, Russia, February 23, 2024. While Trump announced on July 14 that he would sign off on "severe tariffs" against Russia if Moscow failed to agree to a peace deal within 50 days, Trump said Monday that waiting that period of time was futile amid stalled negotiations. "Im going to make a new deadline, of about 10 10 or 12 days from today," Trump told reporters from Scotland. "Theres no reason for waiting. It was 50 days. I wanted to be generous, but we just dont see any progress being made." Read On The Fox News App Trumps remarks come as his frustration with Putin has grown in recent weeks amid no progress toward peace between Russia and Ukraine, and just a day after Russia launched more than 300 drones, four cruise missiles and three ballistic missiles into Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian air force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump Disappointed In Putin, Says He'll Reduce 50-Day Deadline President Donald Trump speaks with the media during a meeting with Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the Trump Turnberry golf course in Turnberry, Scotland Monday, July 28, 2025. Trump called out Putin for providing lip service during their discussions while not taking proactive steps to end the war. As a result, Trump said hes grown "disappointed" in the Russian leader and that hes "not so interested in talking anymore" with Putin. "He talks we have such nice conversations, such respectful and nice conversation. And then, people die the following night," Trump said Monday. Following Trumps announcement about whittling down the deadline for a peace deal, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Trump for his "clear stance and expressed determination" to resolve the conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I thank President Trump for his focus on saving lives and stopping this horrible war," Zelenskyy said in a post on X on Monday. "Ukraine remains committed to peace and will work tirelessly with the U.S. to make both our countries safer, stronger, and more prosperous." Zelenskyy Pointedly Thanks Trump, America For Ukraine Support Months After Vance's Jab About Lack Of Gratitude In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Presidential Press Office, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, right, and President Donald Trump, talk as they attend the funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican, Saturday, April 26, 2025. Zelenskyy previously came under scrutiny from Vice President JD Vance in February during an Oval Office meeting for not voicing more gratitude for U.S. support for Kyiv as it battles Moscow. Although Trump has historically boasted about having a solid relationship with Putin, he has publicly voiced increased frustration with Putin in recent weeks as the war rages on between Russia and Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We get a lot of bulls--- thrown at us by Putin, if you want to know the truth," Trump said during a Cabinet meeting on July 8. "Hes very nice to us all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless." Fox News Digitals Caitlin McFall contributed to this report. Original article source: Medvedev warns Trumps new deadline to end Russia-Ukraine conflict is a step towards war The NBC Nightly News franchise is losing one of its most senior leaders, as Meghan Rafferty will be moving to Versant, becoming the media company's vice president of news standards. In this role, Rafferty, who will be part of Versants news leadership team, will be responsible for setting and maintaining journalism standards for MSNBC and CNBC, guiding each network's newsroom. She will report to Brian Carovillano, senior vice president of standards and editorial partnerships for news at Versant, who joined the media company in June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Meghan will be a key voice within both networks' news leadership," said Carovillano in a memo to Versant staff. He added, "She will help lead our News Standards Team and guide newsrooms at MSNBC and CNBC to ensure the work is fair, accurate, and transparent. Shell collaborate with colleagues across our news platforms, as well as legal and other departments." Rafferty was most recently the executive producer of NBC Nightly News, a position she had held since September 2021. She recently oversaw the successful transition from Lester Holt to Tom Llamas as anchor. Rafferty joins the growing list of NBC News off-air and on-air talent moving over to Versant ahead of its spin-off from the NBCUniversal News Group. Other senior executives, in addition to Carovillano, who have moved over to the Versant side include Joey Cole, Diana Rocco, Hollie Tracz, Tom Clendenin, Richard Hudcock, and Madeleine Haeringer. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Memphis Shelby County School board members unanimously approved the districts new cell phone policy with little discussion about it during a meeting on Tuesday. The meeting was to discuss the policy regarding the possession and use of personal wireless communication devices by students during the school day. This comes after Tennessee lawmakers gave their final approval to ban the use of cell phones in schools across the state back in March. The ban includes laptops, smart watches, and any other personal communication devices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TN lawmakers approve school cell phone ban, awaits Gov. Lee MSCS district says devices must be powered off and stored out of sight in a designated location during the school day. Appropriate storage areas include school-provided secured pouches, students purse, backpack, book bag, carry bag, locker, or vehicle, the district says. Devices may be taken if students are found using them during the school day. However, the consequences will increase each time the student is found using their devices. In the past week, MSCS sent an automated message to parents notifying them of a pending change in the policy. When asked how they would implement changes based on the new law, they sent the following message to WREG, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Board is responsible for adopting a district-wide policy that applies to all our schools. The referenced policy is currently awaiting adoption by the Board. Once adopted, each school will be responsible for ensuring compliance with the policy, including associated administrative rules and regulations. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Two brothers detained at Alligator Alcatraz, including a Mexican citizen vacationing in Orlando on a valid tourist visa, are now back home in Mexico City, their father said at a press conference Monday. The brothers were transported from the center in the Everglades to a detention center in Miami and then to another in Brownsville, Texas on the border of Mexico before they ended up back in their native country, Martin Gonzalez said. The multi-day process was traumatizing for his sons, he added. The brothers detention become an international incident when made public last week, with the Mexican Consulate issuing a warning to its citizens about visiting Orlando and Mexicos president demanding they be returned home immediately after a traffic stop in Orlando led to their arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the day they learned they would be transferred out of Alligator Alcatraz Floridas new immigration detention facility that opened last month a federal official told the brothers, your case made national news, so were going to let you go, said their lawyer, Andrea Reyes, who also spoke at the press conference. Carlos Martin Gonzalez had a valid tourist visa and a ticket to fly home on July 15, his father said, so should not have been detained during the July 7 stop in Orlando. His older brother, Oscar Alejandro Gonzalez, arrived on a tourist visa in late 2024 but then stayed, Reyes conceded. The brothers were shackled for the majority of their transport back to Mexico, a trek that began on July 24 and lasted until they finally crossed the border on July 27 in a van, alongside more than a dozen other Mexican detainees, Reyes said. At one point during the transport the brothers were shackled for more than 10 hours, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From around 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. at night my clients were handcuffed and apparently Alligator Alcatraz has a unique handcuff procedure where not only are they handcuffing them on their hands, and then tying that to their feet, but then theyre also handcuffing that combination to a hook thats on the cement floor so they cannot move, Reyes said. They were fed food but their handcuffs were not released so they had to eat basically eat standing up and uncomfortable. The circumstances of the brothers arrest are still not fully clear and are only partly described in documents. But those documents are incorrect, Reyes claimed. I got a lot of information that is not consistent with what is in the police report, which is not surprising, Reyes said. On July 7, Carlos, 26, was driving at the intersection of Hughey Avenue and Robinson Street in Orlando when he was pulled over by the Florida Highway Patrol for having tinted windows, according to an arrest affidavit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A trooper ran the Mexican license plate and found the car had no valid registration in the United States or Mexico, the report said. Carlos told the trooper his older brother, 31-year-old Oscar Alejandro Gonzalez, had the registration documents. Oscar arrived with a car title, but it did not have either brothers name on it, FHP said. Carlos was arrested for driving an unregistered car and taken to Orange County jail, the report said. The Orlando Sentinel could not find any arrest records for Oscar Gonzalez, but their father said both his sons were detained that day after the traffic stop. Arrests for minor traffic infractions are how many immigrants in Central Florida end up in custody as the Trump administration cracks down on undocumented migrants, the Orlando Sentinel reported. Reyes said her clients did not understand English, and officers at the scene did not speak Spanish well, so there was miscommunication. She said FHP asked for Carlos to call his brother to come to the stop, disputing the report that says Carlos called his brother. The car was registered under the name of Oscars wife, who is a U.S. citizen, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reyes said she still does not know why Oscar was arrested. Carlos was here on a valid I-94, also known as the arrival/departure record that is issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and serves as proof of legal entry and authorized stay in the country, Reyes said. The form stated Carlos was able to stay in the U.S. for six months, which would have expired on August 15. However, Oscar did overstay his tourist visa after arriving in November 2024, she said. Martin Gonzalez said his sons are now resting at home in Mexico after enduring a treatment that not even an animal should endure, at Alligator Alcatraz, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Martin Gonzalez said he will leave Orlando and head back to Mexico to be with his sons as soon as possible. I have always respected the laws and have come to the U.S. many times and was well received as a visitor but honestly now it is scary to come, Martin Gonzalez said. This situation has caused a lot of trauma. The Mexican peninsula of Baja California was named by Travel + Leisure as one of 27 under-the-radar places that must be visited before they skyrocket in popularity. Located in the Northwest region of Mexico, neighbor to the U.S. state of California and surrounded by the Pacific Ocean to its west and the Sea of Cortez to its east, Baja California features a wide range of breathtaking landscapes from beaches to vineyards, deserts and mountains. Besides the views, Baja California is a paradise for outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, swimming and snorkeling as well as any foodie with a seafood fixation. Advertisement Advertisement The Baja California peninsula in Mexico has activities for all travelers, including the vineyards of Valle de Guadalupe, the whale mating grounds of Laguna San Ignacio, and magical towns like La Paz, Todos Santos, and Loreto, Travel + Leisure travel advisor and Journey Mexico founder Zachary Rabinor wrote for the magazines ranking. The exceptional wines and cuisine of the north are a closely-held secret among southern Californians, but new luxury hotels like Banyan Tree are drawing attention. The average flight from Phoenix to some of the most popular destinations in Baja California ranges from one to two hours. Heres why you might want to consider booking that flight soon. Is Baja California worth going to? Baja California caters to travelers craving adventure, relaxation, exploration and good cuisine. According to High Tide Los Cabos Sea Expeditions, a Cabo-based tourism agency recognized with a Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award in 2024, some highlights from the peninsula include magical beach escapes varying from the very Cabo San Lucas beaches to La Paz. Those are the same locations that High Tide described as any surfers paradise. And of course, there are the peninsulas stunning waterfalls and lagoons. Advertisement Advertisement But there's more than tropical scenery. Baja California also features a mountainous desert landscape for those who lean towards hikes and other adventurous getaways. The Baja California peninsula has a favorable climate for growing an array of produce, including grapes. You may want to consider a trip to one of Valle de Guadalupes wineries in North Baja California to delight your taste buds with authentic local Baja Californian wine. Noticias esenciales en espanol: Suscribete al boletin de La Voz If youre bringing the kids along, activities involving the appreciation of marine life in the peninsula might be your go-to. The Sea of Cortez, nicknamed "The Worlds Aquarium" by Jacques Cousteau, shelters a variety of marine wildlife from sea lions to whale sharks and turtles. Advertisement Advertisement And if the vast number of recreational activities isnt enough, the culinary scene at Baja California boasts a diversity of seafood-inspired cuisine. Expect dishes prepared with freshly caught fish from the Pacific Ocean or Sea of Cortez. Best destinations and activities in Baja California These are some of the spots and activities to consider next time you visit the Baja California peninsula, according to Tripadvisor: El Arco de Cabo San Lucas: Perfect spot for boat tours to appreciate Cabos iconic rock formations and marine life. Balandra Beach: Features crystal-clear waters and scenic hiking trails. La Bufadora: A natural marine geyser located about 17 miles south of Ensenada that shoots water up to 100 feet. The area is surrounded by shops and stands. Bahia de Loreto National Park: Features a rich ocean biodiversity, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling or scuba diving. Tours are also available. Bahia Concepcion: A sheltered bay ideal for fishing, swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. Lovers Beach: "Playa de los Amantes" in Spanish, is a hidden gem that can only be accessed using a water taxi. This is a great destination for a day of swimming or snorkeling. Divorce Beach: Ironically enough, this beach is connected by an arch to its counterpart, Lovers Beach, and its the ideal place for relaxing while sunbathing. Wild Canyon Adventures: This is a Cabo-based tour operator that offers a range of outdoor activities across land, sea and sky. Monte Xanic Bodega Vinicola: One of the multiple vineyards in Valle de Guadalupe with breathtaking views and a specialty in sauvignon blancs and reds. Bodegas Domecq: Another scenic vineyard that offers a journey through Mexican wines history with chocolate pairings. Ultimate guide: Here's your Puerto Penasco summer vacation planner What other places should I visit before they become popular? Alongside Baja California, other low-profile gems mentioned in Travel + Leisures ranking include: Advertisement Advertisement Sardinia, Italy. Madagascar. Gargano, Italy. Asturias, Spain. The Southern Highlands, Australia. Mongolia. Bolivia. The Craigieburn Valley, New Zealand. Antarctica. Northern Morocco. Mozambique. Abruzzo, Italy. Onimichi, Japan. Slovenia. Montenegro. Albania. Nafplio, Greece. Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Laos. Milos, Greece. The Pacific Coast of Colombia. Egypt. Greenland. Uganda. Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Bhutan. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Mexico vacation spot named 1 of the best places to visit ASAP Texas State Rep. Christian Manuel, Rep. Josey Garcia, Redistricting Committee Vice Chair Rep. Jon Rosenthal, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, Rep. Erin Gamez, Speaker pro Tempore Joe Moody, Rep. John Bucy and Rep. Salman Bhojani met in Lujan Grisham's office on July 29, 2025. (Photo courtesy of the Texas House Democratic Caucus) New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham hosted seven Democratic members of the Texas House of Representatives in the state capitol on Tuesday to discuss their Republican counterparts plans to redraw Texas congressional map during an overtime special legislative session. The meeting on the fourth floor of the Roundhouse in Santa Fe lasted more than an hour and came during heightened national attention on New Mexicos eastern neighbor. President Donald Trump earlier this month said he wants the Texas map redone in order to gain five Republican seats in Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas Gov. Greg Abbott added redistricting to the Texas Legislatures special session agenda, citing constitutional concerns raised by the U.S. Department of Justice, the Texas Tribune reports. In Santa Fe on Tuesday, Democratic State Rep. John Rosenthal told reporters in a news conference after the meeting with Lujan Grisham that Abbot did so at the behest of the president rather than listening to his constituents. We have had pretty close to 2,000 Texans show up at field hearings around the state, said Rosenthal, who represents northwest Houston and is vice chair of the Texas House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting. Its not an overwhelming majority its basically all but one person is against letting somebody from Washington D.C. dictate when Texas draws its boundaries. In the meeting with the governor, which was closed to the press, Texas House Speaker Pro Tempore Joe Moody said Lujan Grisham voiced support for the Texas lawmakers and committed to using her connections to other governors to encourage everybody who is willing to stand in this fight with us to join with us. Its not just about five seats in Texas, Moody said. This is a national problem and were here to sound the alarm: It may start in Texas, but its not going to end there, and we need our friends across the country to stand with us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lujan Grisham did not join the lawmakers for the news conference. Spokesperson Michael Coleman told Source NM on Tuesday she is not not currently considering placing redistricting reform on the call for a special session. It would not shock me if the minority party in New Mexico attempted something similar, but I dont see any real possibility that our Legislature would take it up, Lujan Grisham told Source in an emailed statement. I certainly I would not support that. Other Texas Democratic lawmakers recently visited with governors in California and Illinois for the same purpose, Moody said. Theyre enlisting help from strong governors around the country that govern like adults and put the needs of the people ahead of the political expediency of the party, Rosenthal said. After meeting with New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham in Santa Fe, Texas Democratic State Rep. John Rosenthal told reporters that Texas Gov. Greg Abbott added redistricting to the Texas Legislatures special session agenda at the behest of President Donald Trump rather than listening to his constituents. (Photo by Austin Fisher / Source NM) First among those needs right now, the visiting lawmakers said, is responding to the deadly flash flooding in Texas over the Fourth of July weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Josey Garcia of San Antonio said she and about 15 friends and fellow military veterans volunteered to form search, rescue and recovery teams who returned victims bodies to their families. Garcia said when Abbott called the Texas Legislature into a 30-day special session, she was excited to share her first-hand account as part of a coordinated disaster response and an attempt to prevent future ones. Instead, she said, she had to sit through redistricting hearings while recovery efforts continue. People are still missing in the Hill Country, Garcia said. As were sitting in those hearings, Im fielding questions from the Hill Country community, asking me where Im at, why am I not there, they need to see me right now. Moody, of El Paso, said there is a close relationship between his community and Southern New Mexico, and the lawmakers asked Lujan Grisham about New Mexicos response to flooding in the Ruidoso area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre putting those issues of emergency up front, thats really the big difference, Moody said. Thats where our focus should be. Instead, Texas lawmakers who are opposed to redistricting right now are ensuring our districts and our state [arent] stripped of the freedoms we have for representation, said Garcia, secretary of the Texas Legislative Black Caucus, whip of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus and secretary of the LGBTQ House Caucus. Policy advocates from the Texas and California chapters of the nonpartisan election integrity group Common Cause said Tuesday state governments led by Democrats should not try to do their own mid-decade redistricting to counter Republicans, States Newsroom reports. They instead suggested that more states create nonpartisan redistricting commissions. While New Mexico has had to adjust its political maps between census counts because of lawsuits and federal DOJ rules, the state has never undertaken mid-decade redistricting, Fair Districts for New Mexico Project Manager Dick Mason told Source NM in an emailed statement on Tuesday. As Source recently reported, Fair Districts and other advocates plan to resume efforts to create an independent redistricting commission here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. John Bucy, an Austin lawmaker and vice chair of the Texas Committee on Elections, characterized the mid-decade redistricting effort as an attempt by Trump to steal the 2026 elections. He said he and the other visiting lawmakers asked Lujan Grisham to tell other governors the situation in Texas will reach every state. They are attempting to steal five seats from primarily Black and Brown communities throughout the state of Texas, Bucy said. This is the warning for everyone listening: We are just the beginning. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE NEW MEXICO (KRQE) The New Mexico Public Education Department is streamlining the process for those in the state who are looking to launch their teaching career. The department launched a new online career hub called TEACHNewMexico.org. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The website offers free career tools, personalized guidance from current educators and up to $100 off application costs. It also guides uses through applying for financial aid, the licensure process and testing and educator preparation programs across the state. TEACHNewMexico.org is strengthening our existing pathways to becoming an educator, Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla said in a release. To access the new online tool, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. NEW MEXICO (KRQE) A campaign offering a unique way to experience the Land of Enchantment and those who live here is up for a major leisure travel award. The New Mexico True Living Legends campaign is making the voices of real New Mexicans heard, highlighting people who personify the spirit of the state through short documentaries, from a child bullrider to an eighth-generation weaver. Santa Fe Public Library relaunches laptop lending program The New Mexico Tourism Department said its now being considered for the 2025 Skift Ideas Awards, which recognize the people, businesses, and brands that drive the travel industry forward. Living Legends is one of 10 finalists in the Creative Thinkers: Content category, with New Mexico being only one of three U.S. destination management organizations up for the award. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. A Michigan Democratic effort would open up ICE agents to state prosecution if they conduct immigration enforcement operations while wearing masks that conceal their identity. The effort comes five years after Michigan Democrats supported Gov. Gretchen Whitmers order outlining $500 fines for civilians who, conversely, defied her executive order to wear masks in public during the coronavirus pandemic. The bill's sponsor, state Rep. Betsy Coffia, D-Traverse City, said Friday ICEs masking-up "mirror the tactics of secret police in authoritarian regimes and strays from the norms that define legitimate local law enforcement." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It confuses and frightens communities," she said. "Those who protect and serve our community should not do so behind a concealed identity." Dhs Fires Back At Democrats For 'Beyond The Pale' Rhetoric As Ice Agents Face Wave Of Violent Threats Federal agents patrol the halls of immigration court at the Jacob K. Javitz Federal Building on July 8, 2025 in New York City. A banner on the dais from which Coffia announced the bill read, "Justice needs no masks." Read On The Fox News App State Rep. Noah Arbit, D-West Bloomfield, added his name as a co-sponsor and said in a statement when a person is unable to discern whether someone apprehending them is a government authority or not, it "shreds the rule of law." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That is why the Trump administration and the Republican Party are the most pro-crime administration and political party that we have ever seen," Arbit said. Attorney General Dana Nessel, who was one of several state prosecutors to demand Congress pass similar legislation at the federal level, also threw her support behind the bill. "Imagine a set of circumstances where somebody might be a witness to a serious crime and that defendant has some friends go out and literally just mask up and go apprehend somebody at a courthouse," Nessel told the Traverse City NBC affiliate. However, during the coronavirus pandemic, Whitmer issued an executive order in June 2020 that mandated people "wear a face covering whenever they are in an indoor public space." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Five Years After Covid Lockdowns: The Five Most Bizarre Stop The Spread Moments "It also requires the use of face coverings in crowded outdoor spaces. Most significantly, the order requires any business that is open to the public to refuse entry or service to people who refuse to wear a face covering. No shirts, no shoes, no maskno service," the order read. Violators who refused to wear masks in such situations, excluding houses of worship, were subject to $500 penalties, according to WXYZ. Nessel, at the time, had praised the Michigan Claims Court for acting quickly to clarify the legality of Whitmers prior executive orders related to COVID-19, including the stay-at-home edict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "With this clarity, its my hope that our public officials and residents can move forward with confidence that the Governor has acted in accordance with the authority provided to her under the Emergency Powers of the Governor Act," she said in a statement. "Its time for us all to focus on the health and safety of the people in this state rather than fighting against each other in unnecessary legal battles in our courts." Nessel also lent her name to an amicus brief this month supporting a case brought against ICE over tactics used during its raids in Los Angeles. "When masked, heavily armed federal agents operate with no identification, they threaten public safety and erode public trust," Nessel said in the brief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall, R-Kalamazoo, told Fox News Digital he doesnt see Coffias bill making it to Whitmers desk, calling it an "attack on law enforcement." "The people want these dangerous criminal aliens off our street, and we are doing everything we can to partner with the Trump administration and put an end to illegal immigration," he said Monday, adding that Democrats "will do everything they can to get in the way of local police and ICE because theyve always cared more about criminals than victims. "But that ends here," he added. "This ridiculous bill is dead on arrival." When asked about the bill and the apparent COVID-related hypocrisy, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said it shows "power-hungry politicians" are continuing to "push disgusting smears against our brave officers, who are simply enforcing the law, in a repulsive effort to score cheap political points." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "State Rep. Coffia has clearly never been on an ICE operation because she would see our officers verbally identify themselves, wear vests that say ICE/ERO or Homeland Security, and are flanked by vehicles that also say the name of the department." McLaughlin said the masks are vital to prevent officers from being targeted by "highly sophisticated gangs" like Tren de Aragua and MS-13. "These arguments are getting a little desperate," she said. Fox News Digital reached out to Nessel, Whitmer and Coffia for further comment. Original article source: MI Dems seek to prosecute mask-wearing ICE, after state instituted $500 fine for being maskless during COVID A Michigan councilman whose criminal record as a drug dealer was wiped clean following a Democrat-backed law has been arrested for allegedly beating a woman. Leon El-Alamin, 44, a Democratic First Ward city councilman in Flint, was arrested on July 10 and is charged with alleged domestic violence and assault, according to court documents filed by the Mount Morris Township police. Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton said the lawmaker allegedly became angry with the woman because she was looking at her emails, WNEM-TV reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Knife-wielding Illegal Migrant Accused Of Threatening Us Attorney On Albany, Ny Streets Flint City Councilman Leon El-Alamin pictured with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. A law backed by Whitmer allowed El-Alamin, who now faces domestic violence charges, to have his previous criminal record wiped clean. "She had bruising on her face, which is consistent with being struck in the face," Leyton said. "She had a mark on her neck, which is consistent with the allegation of being choked, and she claims she had been dragged out by her hair. And I do believe they found some strands of hair on the floor on the ground, so that corroborated what she said." A gun was also found inside the home, he said. Read On The Fox News App In a statement on the Facebook page for the M.A.D.E. Institute, El-Alamin denied the accusations against him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These recent allegations are both false and deeply disheartening, but I remain confident in the truth and in the legal process," he wrote. "My legal team is actively handling the matter, and I fully intend to clear my name and win this case." El- Alamin is the founder and executive director of the M.A.D.E. Institute, a nonprofit organization that stands for Money, Attitude, Direction and Education. Newark Mayor Sues Interim Us Attorney For False Arrest, Malicious Prosecution Flint city Councilman Leon El-Alamin pictured with U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, D, N.J., and and U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet, a Michigan Democrat. El-Alamin was elected to the city council in November, and has been pictured with prominent Democratic leaders like U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After graduating from high school, he began dealing drugs and spent a month in a coma following a shootout, his bio on his website states. He was subsequently arrested on drug and weapons charges. He was released from prison after serving part of a 12-to-20-year sentence. In 2021, he had his criminal record wiped under the Clean Slate Act, which expunged the records of many ex-convicts who were eligible. "Im excited, I cant really explain it. Im overwhelmed with joy," El-Alamin told Mid Michigan Now at the time. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer attends the Clinton Global Initiative 2024 Annual Meeting at New York Hilton Midtown on September 24, 2024 in New York City El-Alamins bond was set at $7,500. He appeared in court for a hearing last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fox News Digital has reached out to Whitmer's office, El-Alamin and Leyton. Original article source: Michigan councilman arrested for alleged domestic violence after Dem law cleared his criminal past Tonnieo Graves calls for disabled individuals to keep pushing back following cuts to Medicaid and SNAP benefits. July 29, 2025 | Photo by Kyle Davidson/Michigan Advance Standing before the Michigan State Capitol on Tuesday, a group of disability self-advocates took Congress to task over cuts to Medicaid and SNAP benefits included in the Republican tax and spending law, while warning a new assault on the autonomy of disabled individuals is in force. While multiple speakers gathered in downtown Lansing to share their experiences and call out the barriers that continue to impact the ways people with disabilities work, live and thrive, Michigans summer heat kept many individuals from attending said Renee Hall, advisor to the Self-Advocates of Michigan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alongside the concerns posed by the heat, several individuals had opted against attending Breaking Barriers Day at the Capitol out of fear, citing the federal effort like the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services now-discontinued plan to create a new registry on autism, and President Donald Trumps recent executive order instructing local governments to have homeless individuals facing mental illness committed to treatment facilities without their consent. The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council and Self-Advocates of Michigan hosted their second annual Breaking Barriers Day celebrating the experiences of individuals with disabilities. July 29, 2025 | Photo By Kyle Davidson/Michigan Advance However, those threats did not stop other advocates from speaking out against cuts to social services, with one in three individuals with a disability receiving Medicaid, and the American Civil Liberties Union warning that work requirements imposed on the program which is intended to offer healthcare services to low income adults and children will harm disabled individuals who fall outside the governments definition. According to the left-leaning Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, more than 39% of Michiganders receiving food assistance through SNAP are in families with adults or individuals with disabilities, compared to more than 37% nationally. Tonnieo Graves, a member of Self-Advocates of Michigans board, said individuals with disabilities cant lose hope in the face of these cuts and must continue pushing to let Congress know they arent giving up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adam Hazlett, who serves as the groups public relations chair, said Tuesdays event is not just a celebration of disability pride and breaking barriers, but a call to rise, organize and resist. They are coming for us, and its not just with paperwork and policies, but with barriers, bans and blitzkrieg marches backwards, Hazlett said. The liberal Center for American Progress points to several Trump administration policies that harm disabled individuals, including eliminating diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility programs; barring enforcement of disability civil rights laws; decreasing protections in employment and slashing services, benefits and regulations that help keep disabled people in their communities. Every cut to services, every attack on autonomy, every whisper that were too expensive isnt just an insult. Its a warning, a warning that theyre not slowing down, Hazlett said. At the Michigan State Capitol, Adam Hazlett speaks out against federal efforts to minimize people with disabilities. July 29, 2025 | Photo by Kyle Davidson/Michigan Advance However, people with disabilities will not be pushed quietly back into the shadows, Hazlett said, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They may try to erase us, they may try to silence us, but together, we are louder than their silence. Together, we are brighter than their shadows, and together, we are never, ever, ever going back, Hazlett said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The Michigan House of Representatives as it worked -- but failed -- to pass a criminal sentencing bill addressing juvenile life without parole sentences, a vote that resulted in state Rep. Alabas Farhat (D-Dearborn) being removed from his House Appropriations Committee post after he voted against the bill. July 24, 2025 | Ben Solis/Michigan Advance The Republican sponsor behind the Michigan House of Representatives plan to ban cell phones in all K-12 schools said Monday that he is going back to the drawing board to rewrite the legislation which died on the chambers floor last week. Democratic lawmakers and some members of the GOP House caucus coalesced to defeat the bill July 24 after initial bipartisan support. The measure was even floated by Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in her annual State of the State address earlier this year, showing a statewide appetite to ban phones in schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Rep. Mark Tisdel (R-Rochester) sponsored House Bill 4141, which would have prohibited cell phone use in schools during instructional hours only. The 53-43 vote on the House floor last Thursday saw nearly every House Democrat voting against the measure. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX In an interview with Michigan Advance on Monday, Tisdel said that he plans to rewrite the bill before reintroducing it this time with a strict bell-to-bell prohibition on cellular or wireless devices in K-12 schools. The new bill will be based on New York states pending bell-to-bell cell phone ban, mandating that devices must not be used for the entire school day. All public school districts there are required to publish new distraction-free cell phone use policies by Aug. 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whitmer in February floated the idea of bringing a school cell phone ban to Michigan, but Tisdel said he has been working on the Houses version since 2023. A lot of that work sought to incorporate input from both sides of the aisle in the House and Senate and other stakeholders. With the pending rewrite, Tisdel told the Advance that he was done with the Mr. Nice Guy stuff. We had it put together, incorporating the best language from all sides and [House Democrats] played games, Tisdel said. If a Democratic legislature and a Democratic governor in New York, a very blue New York state, can see the value in a bell-to-bell prohibition in K-12, somehow that cant work in Michigan? If [Whitmer] wants a cell phone bill signed during her term, thats what its going to be. Additional resources informing the rewrite include recommendations for the American Legislative Exchange Conference, the Manhattan Institute for Public Policy and Research and the Brookings Institution, Tisdel said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conservative, nonpartisan American Legislative Conference leans toward more conservative ideals like limited government, support for free markets and federalism. The Manhattan Institute is generally perceived as a right-wing think tank, while the Brookings Institution is perceived to be more left-leaning. Although hes eying a strict bell-to-bell ban, Tisdel added that he would incorporate exemptions from federal law and would be open to allowances for dumb phone devices, like flip phones without broad and user-friendly access to the internet and social media applications. I dont have a problem with that. That was in the last bill, and that was one of the concessions I put in, Tisdel said. When youre using a flip phone, you make the phone call, you hang up, and you put the phone away, because theres nothing else you can do with it. The problem with smartphones is you never put them away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tisdel noted that he had good working relationships with two Democrats in crafting the original bill, including state Sen. Dayna Polehanki of Livonia and state Rep. Regina Weiss of Oak Park. However, after the bills defeat, Tisdel blamed Democrats. Tisdel said that some Democrats, like state Rep. Noah Arbit of West Bloomfield, publicly supported his legislation. Arbit told The Pulse on Fox 2 Detroit that he agreed with Tisdel that a ban was needed, that he supported the House legislation, championed it being passed by the Michigan Senate and then signed by Whitmer. Arbit voted against the bill Thursday evening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tisdel said he received strong signals of support from Democrats in private conversations, and that he was working with some House Democrats on the legislation to make it a stronger bipartisan effort. He was also forging a deal with Polehanki to get it done in the Senate, even as the Senate was shopping its own school cell phone ban. Tisdel was not alone in placing the blame on his Democratic colleagues: Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall (R-Richland Township) echoed some of Tisdels talking points when speaking to the Michigan Capitol press corps following Thursdays session. A message seeking comment from a House Democratic caucus spokesperson regarding those criticisms, and the alleged broken deals, was not returned at the time of publication. Several key Republicans who could have moved the measure over the finish line either voted against the bill or were absent from session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Notably, Republican state Reps. Steve Carra of Three Rivers, James DeSana of Carleton, Jaime Greene of Richmond, David Martin of Davison and Pauline Wendzel of Watervliet were either absent or voted in opposition to House Bill 4141. The Detroit News reported last week that DeSana was absent from Thursdays session in protest of Hall not taking up his legislative priorities. Tisdel said he believed that DeSana would have been a likely yes vote. Tisdel also noted that Martin had an executed absence last week. Messages seeking comment from Carra, Greene and Wednezel were not returned at the time of publication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Tisdel was asked about those defections, he said the situation was unfortunate, but also represented just another day in Lansing with political games aplenty. He was disappointed, however, in some of his more conservative colleagues who voted against the bill. Its a 2-to-1 legislative layout, the governor and the [Democratic-controlled] Senate against us, Tisdel said. We dont need any barrels inside the caucus pointing at us, as well. Its just frustrating. I dont know how this perception got to be that some of these individuals who vote no all the time are the most conservative members. Theyre simply enablers. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Today, Michigan State Police (MSP) invites community members to a family-friendly event called Safety Day. The event started at 9 a.m. and will continue through 3 p.m. The event will feature 40 stations that include fingerprinting, a hidden-in-plain-sight display trailer highlighting substance abuse in teens, and a child safety seat inspection station. MSP will also have a vehicle temperature demonstration to exhibit how dangerous hot cars are for kids. MSP safety day./ WLNS It will be held outside at MSP Headquarters located at 7150 Harris Drive in Dimondale, Michigan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. Matthew Kolakowski was shopping for fishing gear and snacks with his daughter at a Michigan Walmart over the weekend when he heard an employee yelling he's got a knife followed by sounds of screaming. Then he saw a man rushing toward the checkout counter. All of a sudden I see him pop up and I swear we locked eyes for a minute and I yelled at my daughter, Stay here. So I just took off running, Kolakowski said, recalling the moment he decided to confront the man accused of stabbing 11 people at the Traverse City store on Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bradford Gille was charged Monday with terrorism and 11 counts of attempted murder. Police said they had no apparent motive for the violent attack carried out with a 3 1/2 inch (nearly 9-centimeter) knife. The actions of Kolakowski and some other men drew effusive praise from Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea. Overnight, the strangers became online celebrities for their heroics as a video showing the confrontation spread swiftly on social media. Kolakowski said that as he followed the man out of the store, he saw him plunge his blade into an older woman outside. Having no weapon himself, Kolakowski grabbed a shopping cart, hoping to knock the man down as he gave chase. He just ran right behind her and buried his knife into her back, right in front of me, Kolakowski said. He pulled the knife out of her and went to take off, then stopped and hesitated and turned around like he was going to go after her again. Thats when he noticed me with the grocery cart ... I just went as hard as I could and just got him on his ankles with the grocery cart from behind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kolakowski, a 39-year-old disabled veteran, was quickly joined by another man with a shopping cart, stopping the man later identified by authorities as Gille. A third man pointed a gun toward the man, repeatedly demanding he drop the knife. He eventually put the knife down and Kolakowski said he jumped on the man, restraining him until police quickly arrived. Honestly, I didnt hesitate at all, said Kolakowski, speaking from his home in nearby Kent City. Though he was wary of being stabbed himself, he said, I just kept going. Shea said the 11 victims were men and women ranging in age from 29 to 84, including one Walmart employee. All were expected to survive, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said Gille, 42, has a history of mental health problems and has been arrested or ticketed numerous times in the Petoskey, Michigan, area since 2001. He has also received jail sentences for assault and domestic violence-related offenses. In 2017, he was found not guilty by reason of insanity after being charged with damaging a burial vault and tipping over grave markers at a Ptoskey cemetery. And police in Petoskey reported speaking twice with Gille in recent days about loitering. In a statement Monday, the Petoskey Department of Public Safety said the agency sought and received a court order Friday to place Gille in protective custody, deeming him a risk to himself or others. But they could not find him until the Traverse City stabbings occurred. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gilles mother told the Petoskey News-Review in 2007 that her son had been in a long-term cycle of mental illness. Beverly Gille at that time praised police and judges, whom she said were trying to help him. Hes fine when hes on his medication, she told the newspaper. The problem is his illness tells him that he is fine and doesnt need to take his medication. At his arraignment Monday, Gille appeared agitated and seemed to suggest he was homeless. A not-guilty plea was entered for him, and bond was set at $100,000. Kolakowski said that as he and the other shoppers surrounded the man in the Walmart parking lot, it was clear that something was not right. He described the man as wild-eyed and sweating heavily and describing those in the store as bad, like he was making an excuse why he stabbed everybody." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kolakowski brother-in-law, Chris OBrien, who recorded the video, said the crazy scene unfolded incredibly fast and that Kolakowskis actions surely prevented several more stabbings. Its his courage that is the craziest part. It was something to witness, he said. A guy was stabbing people and we were just next on his list if we didnt do something right, O'Brien said. Matt was determined to make sure it was stopping then and there and he sure as hell did that. ___ Associated Press reporters Ed White and Corey Williams contributed. By Foo Yun Chee BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Norwegian browser maker Opera filed a complaint about U.S. tech giant Microsoft to Brazilian antitrust authority CADE on Tuesday alleging its Edge browser has an unfair advantage, underscoring the long-running rivalry between the two companies. Opera complained to the European Commission in December 2007 about Microsoft tying its Internet Explorer browser to its Windows operating system. The case eventually ended with a 561 million-euro ($648 million) EU antitrust fine for the U.S. company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July last year, Opera took the Commission to court for exempting Edge from the Digital Markets Act, which aims to rein in the power of Big Tech via a list of dos and don'ts. In its complaint to CADE seen by Reuters, Opera alleged that Microsoft's pre-installation of Edge as the default browser across Windows devices and computers prevents rivals from competing on the merits of the products. "Microsoft thwarts browser competition on Windows at every turn. First, browsers like Opera are locked out of important preinstallation opportunities," Opera's general counsel, Aaron McParlan, said in a statement. "And then Microsoft frustrates users' ability to download and use alternative browsers," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Microsoft had no immediate comment. Opera, which said it is the third-most popular PC browser in Brazil, added that Microsoft's alleged tactics included giving incentives to major PC manufacturers to pre-install Edge exclusively on Windows on all their Windows devices. Opera had 6.78% of the desktop browser market in Brazil in June, according to StatCounter, versus Edge's 11.52% while Google's Chrome held a commanding 75%. Opera also alleged that Microsoft used anti-competitive measures such as design tactics or dark patterns to steer PC users away from rival browsers to Edge. Opera called on CADE to investigate Microsoft and to demand concessions to ensure fair competition. (Reporting by Foo Yun Chee in Brussels; Editing by Stephen Coates and Matthew Lewis) NEW YORK - LATEST UPDATES HERE: Midtown shooter traveled from Las Vegas to NYC before attack: Timeline, victims, latest Four people have been killed, including one NYPD officer, after gunfire erupted in Midtown Manhattan Monday afternoon, officials said. Here's a look at what happened in New York Monday evening. All time stamps are based on East Coast times. 10:27 p.m.: 4 people killed, including 36-year-old NYPD officer, mayor says Four people were shot and killed in Midtown Manhattan on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deceased included two females, one male and one NYPD officer. Another male was also shot and is still in critical condition. The shooter died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, the mayor said. The 36-year-old NYPD officer was identified as Didarul Islam. He was with the department for three and a half years, the mayor said. Islam has two sons and his wife is eight months pregnant, the mayor said. What they're saying "The vehicle entered New York City shortly thereafter. According to our law enforcement partners in Las Vegas, Mr. Tamura has a documented mental health history. His motives are still under investigation and we are working to understand why he targeted this particular location," NYC Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. 10:24 p.m.: Officials give update on Midtown Manhattan shooting 9:17 p.m.: Gunman identified, 3 killed, AP reports At least three people, including an off-duty New York City police officer, have been killed following a shooting in a building in Midtown Manhattan on Monday, sources tell The Associated Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect was identified as Shane Tamura, of Nevada, two people briefed on the investigation told the AP. Sources say he fatally shot himself. Law enforcement officials located identification on Tamuras body, including a concealed carry permit from Las Vegas, the people said. The people were not authorized to discuss details of an ongoing investigation and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity. RELATED: NYPD officer killed in NYC active shooting; more dead: AP 9 p.m.: Press conference scheduled Officials and law enforcement have tentatively scheduled a press conference for 10 p.m. ET. 8:27 p.m.: Mayor responds I have been on scene at the shooting in Midtown, and we can report the shooter is neutralized. The NYPD are now searching 345 Park Avenue carefully. If you are in the building, please stay where you are. People have been shot and injured, and I will soon be going to the pic.twitter.com/FYcOfuMxg6 Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) July 29, 2025 RELATED: Whats in the Blackstones Building? Now a Midtown shooting scene Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the chaos on Monday, people inside the building were hiding on different floors, the kitchen and bathrooms, according to FOX News. What they're saying New York Attorney General Letitia James said she "praying for our law enforcement and the New Yorkers impacted in the shooting situation this evening in Manhattan." 8:11 p.m.: Shooter is dead UPDATE: At this time, the scene has been contained and the lone shooter is dead. NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) July 29, 2025 The gunman opened fire in the lobby inside the office building that houses the Blackstone investment firm and the headquarters of the NFL. The shooter allegedly went to another floor and shot people there, sources told FOX News. The gunman then went up to the 33rd floor of the building and turned the gun on himself, FOX News reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surveillance images captured the gunman wearing sunglasses and holding what appeared to be a rifle outside the building. RELATED: What we know about the Midtown Manhattan shooting suspect 8:01 p.m.: Alleged shooter "neutralized" The New York Police Department Commissioner said the alleged shooter has been "neutralized." UPDATE: At this time, the scene has been contained and the lone shooter has been neutralized. https://t.co/I3OpVuUuit Jessica S. Tisch (@NYPDPC) July 28, 2025 7:54 p.m.: Avoid Midtown Manhattan New York City Mayor Eric Adams has advised people to avoid Park Avenue and East 51st Street. New Yorkers: there is an active shooter investigation taking place in Midtown right now. Please take proper safety precautions if you are in vicinity and do not go outside if you are near Park Avenue and East 51st Street. https://t.co/eONqAtCQ1q Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) July 28, 2025 7:04 p.m.: FBI assisting FBI New York Field Office management personnel and agents are responding to provide support at the active crime scene in Manhattan. Dan Bongino (@FBIDDBongino) July 28, 2025 Timeline At 6:28 p.m., the 911 call center started receiving calls about an active shooter inside 345 Park Avenue at 52nd Street in Manhattan, New York City, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch explained during a press conference on Monday evening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surveillance video showed a lone male exited a double-parked black BMW on Park Avenue between 51st and 52nd streets carrying an M4 rifle in his right hand. The building's security camera footage shows the shooter enter the lobby, turn right, and immediately open fire on an NYPD officer. He then shot a woman who took cover behind a pillar and proceeded through the lobby, spraying it with gunfire. He made his way to the elevator bank where he shot a security guard who was taking cover behind the security desk. One additional male was shot in the lobby. The shooter called the elevator, which opened in the lobby. A female exited that elevator and he allowed her to walk past him unharmed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tamura went up to the 33rd floor and began to walk the floor, firing rounds as he traveled. A woman was struck and killed. The shooter then proceeded down a hallway and shot himself in the chest. The Source Information for this article was taken from reporting at the scene by FOX 5 New York and a news conference held by officials on July 28, 2025. The Associated Press and FOX News contributed. A German military helicopter crashed into a river near the town of Grimma in the east of the country, a police spokeswoman told dpa on Tuesday. The fate of the pilot or pilots was initially unclear, a spokesman for the fire brigade association of the Leipzig district has said. The helicopter disappeared between 10 and 10:30 am (0800-0830 GMT), the spokesman cited air-traffic control as saying. Paddlers found debris in the Mulde river around noon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Leipzig police spokeswoman, the Bundeswehr has established a military exclusion zone at the crash site. The Defence Ministry confirmed that the helicopter had been operated by the military, saying that forces were on site to assist rescue efforts. The ministry did not say how many people had been aboard the helicopter at the time of the crash. Large quantities of kerosene have leaked at the scene of the crash. The wreck is lying in the middle of the river and is difficult to access, the fire brigade spokesman told dpa. Some 50 emergency personnel are on site to clear up the kerosene first and then begin the recovery, he said. Grimma is about 25 kilometres from Leipzig. A helicopter (R) drifts in a river near Grimma in Saxony. A German military helicopter crashed into a river near the town of Grimma in the east of the country, a police spokeswoman told dpa on Tuesday. Soren Muller/Medienportal-Grimma/dpa MILLCREEK, Utah (ABC4) Officials confirmed that the fire that burned the Willow Glen apartment complex in Millcreek started on Salt Lake City-owned property, and that the city of Millcreek provided a courtesy notice about weeds on the property just days before the fire. The fire spread to the apartment complex after being sparked by a rock hitting the blades of a lawnmower in an adjacent field, and Unified Fire officials confirmed at the Millcreek city council meeting on July 28 that 41 people total were permanently displaced by the fire. Fire officials also discussed a timeline for the fire at that city council meeting. Crews were dispatched at 1:40 p.m. and arrived five minutes later. Evacuations were ordered at 1:52 p.m., and three minutes later, the fire was reported to have reached an apartment building. By 2:18 p.m., the first roof had collapsed, and the second followed shortly after. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It began as a grass fire in a field near the apartment complex, and Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities (SLCDPU) Director Laura Briefer confirmed that the city owns and operates that land. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Millcreek apartment complex fire leaves upwards of 50 people permanently displaced, donations needed This property, weve owned since 1931, before there was really any development. Weve always maintained it as a natural space. It contains several drinking water wells, and so we maintain it as a natural space for source water protection, to protect those wells from contamination, Briefer told ABC4.com. But clearly, with the development thats come up around these properties, we need to take a look at, you know, the proximity of structures to vegetation. In a press release, Salt Lake City Mayor Mendenhall expressed her gratitude that there were no serious injuries associated with the fire and her sympathies for those who have lost their homes, and Briefer echoed those sentiments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Millcreek Mayor Jeff Silvestrini said, Salt Lake City Public Utilities owns a number of parcels that are all connected or contiguous in this area. And weve had a number of complaints previously about this property closer to 900 East, and this fire was closer to 1300 East. Millcreek also shared documents related to several code cases and courtesy notices issued for that property, two cases and courtesy notices being issued on July 22, just three days before the fire sparked. One code case is from 2022, after a resident complained about overgrown trees posing a danger to drivers. A Millcreek city employee performed an inspection of the property, finding vegetation that needed to be cut back, as well as some weeds. That employee then sent an email to Salt Lake City, and within two weeks, Salt Lake City had cut down the weeds and vegetation. The other cases came about in a similar way, after a resident sent in a complaint. That resident wrote, The weeds and grass are extremely overgrown and each year this field gets mowed and cleared a couple of times in the summer. That has not happened this year and the field presents a danger to our buildings due to fire potential. Who addresses this? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ NEXT: Local animal rescue works to find missing cats after Millcreek apartment complex fire The same Millcreek city employee as in 2022 went to inspect the property, finding that there were overgrown weeds, violating city ordinances about weed control standards. Those standards state that weeds cannot be more than six inches tall at any time. Two courtesy notices about the weed issues were sent to Salt Lake City, telling them that the weeds needed to be cut down and clippings removed. The notice stated that an inspector would come back to inspect the property on August 6. SLCDPU told ABC4.com that they received those notices on July 23. Salt Lake City was in the process of doing the work to bring the property back into compliance with Millcreek city ordinances when the fire sparked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are extremely sorry about this occurring, and our hearts go out to all of the residents who have been disrupted, Briefer told ABC4.com. I know that it is a huge disruption, and were taking it very, very, very seriously. Both cities are working with fire officials in their investigation to understand the circumstances that led to the fire, and Briefer said that SLCDPU is cooperating fully with the investigation. The cities are also working with various nonprofits to help those displaced. One local animal rescue, Whiskers, is working to find pets lost in the fire. The city of Millcreek is accepting donations for affected families here. According to city officials at the July 28 city council meeting, the latest total of donations is $41,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the meeting, the city council approved a motion to adjust their budget to add an extra $11,000 from the city budget to help the victims of the Willow Glen apartments. That money is coming out of the city communication department budget, which is a department that already found savings. On Tuesday, residents displaced by the fire will be receiving checks from the city. Each of the 22 households will receive roughly $2,300, and one household told the city to give their cut to the others. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. MILLCREEK, Utah (ABC4) The community outpour of support since the fires at the Willow Glen Apartments in Millcreek has amounted to $41,000 of monetary donations as of Monday at 5pm. Millcreek city council has approved a resolution to add to that total. Millcreek apartment complex fire started on land owned by Salt Lake City, notices for overgrown weeds issued before fire Mayor Jeff Silvestrini proposed contributing $11,000 from the city to the donation fund, $500 per 22 households impacted. There are 23 households total but the city says one of the families requested their cut go to the fund for the others. I can only imagine what its like to lose everything that you have. Mayor Jeff Silvestrini, Millcreek Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In figuring out where the funds would come from, the finance director presented the council with four options. Option one was to take money from the citys rainy-day fund. The second option was to subtract the funds from the planning for the citys 10-year anniversary celebration. Third was taking the funds from the communication departments budget after learning they had new savings to report from being able to secure a bulk price for newsletter postage. Finally, the last option would have had multiple departments make cuts to cover it. Millcreek City overwhelmed by supply donations for those impacted by fire The council unanimously approved option three, benefitting from the savings of the communications department. Mayor Silvestrini said of the move, Its not a lot of money, but its something and Im gratified that the public has chosen to make donations that really augment that amount so we can give a substantial, you know, significant amount of money to these folks to get restarted. Local animal rescue works to find missing cats after Millcreek apartment complex fire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Money from the donations and the citys contribution will be held in a separate account under the line item of the Promise Department. Council said checks can be cut on Tuesday with this approval. A total of $55,000 split 22 ways for a total of around $2,300 per household. The city is still taking donations and will issue another round of checks as more money comes in. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Milwaukee is poised to pay out $600,000 in settlements due to two police misconduct cases that alleged officers violated the constitutional rights of those suing the city. The city's Judiciary and Legislation Committee moved forward the two settlements from federal lawsuits on July 28 to the full Common Council for approval. Among the two settlements is one which will likely pay out $350,000 and end a yearslong litigation over the pat down of Isaiah Taylor, which began over a decade ago when police officers stopped him while he was attempting to deliver food to a neighbor. The other is a lawsuit from Antoine Fuller, who alleged in 2021 that Milwaukee police unlawfully tased him and detained his children for hours as officers responded to a reported killing by another member of the family, for $250,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city committee discussed the two settlements in closed session on July 28 and later unanimously recommended both be passed by the full common council. The Milwaukee Police Department deferred comment to the city attorney's office. Milwaukee City Attorney Evan Goyke is recommending approval of the settlements, but declined comment, citing the settlements still require full council and mayoral approval. Rick Resche, attorney for the Fullers, declined comment for the same reason, and Mark Thomsen, Taylor's attorney, could not be reached for comment. The Common Council's next hearing is July 31, but the agenda has not yet been released for the meeting. Taylor settlement will end possibility of a do-over at trial Isaiah Taylor filed a lawsuit in federal court in Milwaukee in 2021 accusing Milwaukee police of racial profiling and of violating his Fourth and Fourteenth Amendment rights. He is the son of Lena Taylor, a Milwaukee County Circuit Court judge and former a member of the Wisconsin State Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His court filing says he was stopped and frisked by Milwaukee police officers Justin Schwarzhuber and Jasen Rydzewski as he ran across the street to deliver a turkey to a neighbor in need on Dec. 21, 2015. The two officers were investigating robberies in the neighborhood and footage cited in the complaint showed Rydzewski told Taylor "a lot of them were juveniles." Taylor's lawsuit said the officers racially profiled him; was subject to unreasonable seizure and search. In the over four years since the federal case began, a judge found the two officers had qualified immunity and could receive summary judgment on two of Taylor's claims, and a jury trial later found the two officers not guilty on the remaining claim that he was subject to an unreasonable stop in length. However, Taylor appealed those decisions and was granted a new jury trial by a federal appeals court, earlier this year. The new trial would review what the court found to be Taylor's "viable Fourth Amendment claims": unlawful stop, unlawful search and unlawful continued detention; but agreed with the district court's decision to give a summary judgment on Taylor's equal protection claim against the officers. Fuller lawsuit alleged officers tased, detained three children The $250,000 settlement for the Fuller family comes from events that began on Sept. 6, 2021, when Antoine Fuller and his three children, ages 17, 15 and 12 at the time, were visiting Antoine's father, Abraham Tate, from Chicago, according to the family's legal filing made in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police would later arrive to investigate a killing that Tate later pleaded no contest to in 2023, according to an online court record. During the officers' response, a "heavily intoxicated woman" told police that she heard gunshots and mentioned a person wearing a red shirt, and Antoine was wearing one, according to the filing. One police officer, Adam Rusch, would later say he didn't ask more questions during the incident because he didn't want to fill out additional paperwork, the filing said. The responding officers later asked the father to come out, which he did, and as they grabbed him, he fell to the ground, eventually they used a stun gun on him and placed him in handcuffs, according to the filing. His three children came out as they heard him scream and officers handcuffed them and were later held in police vehicles, according to the filing. A legal filing outlining the alleged events names 12 Milwaukee police officers as defendants, along with the city. The officers are still employed by the department and include Schwarzhuber, who was also a defendant in the Taylor case; Joel Bandkowski; Megan Broadnax; Alexander Dey; Seth Edwards; Stephon Roby; Rusch; Cameron Scott; Arnisha Thomas; Erin Tully; and Wynald Williamson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court filings show the city, and the Fullers reached a tentative settlement agreement last month, according to a June 18 filing in the case. David Clarey is a public safety reporter at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He can be reached at dclarey@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee poised to pay $600,000 in police civil rights cases The Brief Gun violence in Milwaukee was problematic over the weekend. On Sunday alone, there were at least nine people shot in separate shooting incidents. Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman said, "Seeing these incidents should be, and Im glad it is, shocking to the conscience." MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee police have two teenagers in custody in connection with the death of another teen over the weekend. It was one of several weekend shootings police are now investigating. Weekend violence in Milwaukee What we know On Sunday, July 28, at least nine people were shot in separate shootings. The gun violence is a clear problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman is weighing in and discussing upcoming changes to hopefully improve safety in the city. What they're saying "Seeing these incidents should be, and Im glad it is, shocking to the conscience. We should never be OK with any incident, whether its downtown or city-wide, and say this is acceptable," Norman said. "We are quick to use firearms in the most inappropriate circumstances for any particular type of disagreements or frustrations." Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman The chief noted guns are often in the hands of young people. "I was playing with toys at 13, not actual firearms," Norman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX LOCAL Mobile app for iOS or Android One shooting Sunday night left a 16-year-old dead and two other teens wounded. Neighbors are now wondering this "Are our children safe? Thats all I want to know," said Larry Evans, a concerned neighbor. City of Milwaukee data on crime By the numbers New city data shows over the past month, there have been at least 20 homicides in Milwaukee. Homicides are up compared to this time in 2024, but are down from the same point in 2023. The data also shows overall violent crime is down. "Were trending in a lot of great direction in regards to some of the violent crime in our city," Norman said. Gun violence downtown Dig deeper Over the weekend, police responded to two separate late-night shootings on Water Street in downtown Milwaukee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Should people be going to downtown Milwaukee, should they be going to Water Street on Friday night, on Saturday night right now?" asked FOX6's Aaron Maybin. Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman "Absolutely. Our downtown is still a safe place," the chief replied. "Theres no lack of effort on our part. We will continue to lean in. We will continue to put more resources there." SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News "What can the community being doing right now to help with the violent crime were seeing?" Maybin asked. "I will say this much. Check on your children. No child should be in your home with a firearm," Norman answered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX6 News pressed Chief Norman on what those resources will look like on Water Street. He said people will see more officers and not just on the weekend. The Source Th einformation in this post was provided, in part, by the Milwaukee Police Department. A government minister has said tackling child poverty is a "huge challenge" while visiting one of the country's most deprived areas. Education Minister Catherine McKinnell visited a gymnastics academy in Middlesbrough, which offers free places to children from low-income families through the government's Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme. Middlesbrough has some of the poorest areas in the country, including its Newport ward where 85% of children live in poverty, according to data published by the Department of Work and Pensions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McKinnell said the government was "absolutely determined" to ensure where youngsters came from did not determine what they could achieve in life. "We are trying to break down the barriers for opportunity that some of these children might face otherwise," she said. "But I recognise there is a huge challenge. "It is worrying that child poverty has been going up and up, which is totally unacceptable and needs to be turned around." McKinnell said child poverty needs to be tackled but admitted it was a difficult task [BBC] The Labour MP for Newcastle North made her comments at the Teesside Academy of Gymnastics, on Newport South Business Park, during a class for about 40 children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those who took part were able to access healthy food and snacks, through the HAF programme. Middlesbrough's version of the scheme, called Bring it on Boro, has offered 27,000 places via 50 different providers during July and August. It is available for those who receive free school meals, aged between five and 16. McKinnell said the children told her how the HAF programme taught them new skills and helped them to make friends. "Not only does it give parents a chance to work, it really boosts the children's outcomes as well," she said. Middlesbrough Council recently extended the scheme into half-term holidays using its own funds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The town's mayor, Chris Cooke, previously described the child poverty statistics in central Middlesbrough as "dire", according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service. He said Bring it on Boro's sessions kept children active and the academy had produced "brilliant gymnasts". "It's an inspiring place and HAF opens the doors to kids who wouldn't normally come here - they'll definitely want to come back," he said. Follow BBC Tees on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. Related stories Related internet links The Brief The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an air quality alert for central and northern Minnesota Tuesday morning into late Wednesday night. The air quality alert is due to smoke from wildfires in Canada. Particle levels are expected to reach the red air quality, which is considered unhealthy for everyone. MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an Air quality alert for much of central and northern Minnesota for Tuesday and Wednesday. Air quality alert What we know MPCA officials say the Air Quality Alert will take effect at 6 a.m. Tuesday and runs through 11 p.m. Wednesday. It will be for central, east central, west central, north central, northwest and northeast Minnesota. Impacted locations Why you should care The affected areas include: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brainerd Alexandria Hinckley St. Cloud Ortonville Bemidji East Grand Forks Moorhead International Falls Two Harbors Hibbing Ely Duluth Roseau Tribal Nations of Mille Lacs, Leech Lake, White Earth, Red Lake, Grand Portage and Fond du Lac What should we expect? Dig deeper MPCA officials say winds out of the northwest will move heavy surface smoke from wildfires in Manitoba and Saskatchewan into northern Minnesota Tuesday morning. Wildfire smoke will spread to central Minnesota throughout the day, and could continue into southern Minnesota late Tuesday into Wednesday morning. That could cause the air quality alert to expand. High pressure and light winds in the region will prolong the move of the wildfire smoke out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say particle levels are expected to reach the red air quality index, a level considered unhealthy for everyone. Sensitive groups should avoid being outside for extended periods, or engaging in activities that cause heavy exertion. What red, orange air quality alerts mean Dig deeper In areas where the air quality alert is red due to wildfires, the sky may look smokey, the air will look hazy, you might smell smoke and your visibility will be reduced. Anyone might start to experience irritated eyes, nose, throat, coughing, chest tightness or shortness of breath. Under orange air quality, the sky will look hazy and residents can smell smoke even if wildfires aren't near the area. The air is unhealthy for sensitive groups and may aggravate those with heart and lung conditions. People with asthma should have an inhaler nearby. The Minnesota Historical Society plans to lay off 36 employees, or around 7% of its workforce, among other changes it is making, citing a combination of rising expenses, changing patron patterns and lack of revenue. Layoffs will include full-time, part-time and seasonal staff, and impacted employees have been given extended notice and separation packages, according to a Tuesday statement from the MNHS. They work in a variety of positions, including in St. Paul, Preston, Little Falls and Pine City, and include employees represented by the MNHS Workers Union. The St. Paul-based Historical Society, a private nonprofit, operates around two dozen historic locations around the state and St. Pauls flagship Minnesota History Center, and oversees tours of Split Rock Lighthouse and the Minnesota State Capitol, among other sites. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Including the positions to be eliminated, the Historical Society has 512 employees. This has been a very strategic process. Weve looked at our finances, our operations, the patrons of today, and how we meet our mission, said Kent Whitworth, MNHS CEO and director. While these measures are difficult, they are necessary for the long-term sustainability of the organization. Starting Sept. 1, the Charles Lindbergh House and Museum in Little Falls, Historic Forestville in Preston and the Snake River Fur Post in Pine City will focus on providing visitors with free, self-guided outdoor interpretive experiences and occasional special programming. The Gale Family Library at the Minnesota History Center will have a new service model that prioritizes scheduled appointments for patrons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Historical Society is funded through a mix of sources, including state appropriations, program fees, memberships, philanthropic giving and certain other restricted funds. The MNHS has operated in a structural deficit since the 2020 pandemic, according to officials, and staffing costs make up the largest portion of the institutions operating budget. The MNHS has an approved $43 million operating budget for the 2026 fiscal year, which began July 1. That includes an approximately $500,000 deficit, which officials say they are working to eliminate by next year. In a statement from the institution during layoffs last year, officials said that MNHS leadership has embarked on a multi-year plan to create a sustainable future by aligning income and expenses by July 1, 2026. Plans call for the Historical Society to go into the 2027 fiscal year with a balanced budget. Without the layoffs and other actions, the nonprofit faced an operating deficit of $3.5 million to $4 million in its current fiscal year, MNHS spokesperson Allison Ortiz said Tuesday. This is a painful time as we say goodbye to valued colleagues who contributed to our mission at the Minnesota Historical Society, Whitworth said of the institution, which was founded by the territorial legislature in 1849, almost a decade before statehood. Due to the challenging economic environment and changing visitor priorities, we must implement these organizational changes to continue our legacy of service to the people of Minnesota. (NewsNation) Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has issued an executive order effective immediately to activate the National Guard after the city of St. Paul became the target of a cyberattack. On Friday, the city experienced a cyberattack that targeted critical systems and digital services. Walz said the cyberattack lasted through the weekend, causing significant disruptions and impairing St. Pauls ability to provide vital services. The Minnesota National Guards cyber forces will collaborate with city, state, and federal officials to resolve the situation and mitigate lasting impacts, Walz said. Above all, we are committed to protecting the safety and security of the people of Saint Paul. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tea app takes messaging system offline after second security issue reported St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter III said during a news conference Tuesday that it was a deliberate, coordinated digital attack carried out by a sophisticated external actor. The city told a local news outlet that IT systems were shut off Monday as a defensive measure to contain the threat and remain down as of Tuesday afternoon. It is unclear who is behind the attack. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. NESHOBA COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) A Neshoba County man was sentenced to more than 15 years in federal prison for possession of child pornography. According to court documents, Brandon Keith Farmer, 23, filmed himself engaging in sexual contact with a female minor. Court records show that the offense occurred in the Pearl River Community of the Choctaw Indian Reservation in July 2024. Jackson police seek white Ford F-150 in fatal hit-and-run Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Attorneys Office said Farmer was sentenced to 182 months in prison. He will also serve a 25 year term of supervised release. Farmer was also ordered to pay $3,000 to the Child Pornography Victims Reserve Fund established by the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018. Brandon Keith Farmer (Courtesy: Madison County Detention Center) The Choctaw Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) Mississippi has seen recent immense growth in education, and now a few students and instructors are looking to help overseas students to grow as well. The University of Mississippi, the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) and Millsaps College announced the recipients for the Fulbright Scholars Awards, which totals eight students and two faculty members from the universities. Ole Miss had seven students receive scholarships, while Millsaps had one. Southern Miss had two professors receive the Fulbright International Education Administrators (IEA) Award. Mississippi State partners with Navy for innovative research Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Fulbright program is a U.S. Government-sponsored program that seeks to increase mutual understanding and support friendly and peaceful relations between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. The program awards approximately 8,000 merit-based grants every year to accomplished students, scholars, teachers, artists and professionals of all backgrounds and fields. Recipients from Mississippi universities: Elsa Allmendinger Graduate, Ole Miss Madalyn Dudley Graduate, Ole Miss Binta Fadiga Graduate, Ole Miss Abby Henry Graduate, Millsaps Jacqueline Hibbard Graduate, Ole Miss Megan Hughes Graduate, Ole Miss Audrey Koltz Graduate, Ole Miss Dr. Kelly Lester Associate Provost, Southern Miss Dr. Douglas Masterson Senior Associate Provost, Southern Miss Morgan McCann Graduate, Ole Miss These students and faculty will be sent to places such as Taiwan, South Korea, Luxembourg, Kazakhstan, Germany, Luxembourg, France and Spain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Koltz is a native of Madison, Mississippi, and went on to become a Biology Graduate at Ole Miss. After visiting Spain in high school, she became fascinated by the culture. Now with her Fulbright award, Koltz will have the opportunity to teach at an elementary school in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. I couldnt be happier about my placement, she said. I plan to become a physician, where Ill apply Fulbright teaching skills such as communication techniques, Spanish proficiency and cultural awareness to extend empathy to my patients while effectively educating them on their health. Close Thanks for signing up! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has filed a felony complaint against Harlin Dilday Jr. in Morgan County Court for targeting the elderly with his businesses. Dilday Jr. is charged with financial exploitation of the elderly and deceptive business practices in connection with his business. He owns two home repair businesses in Missouri: D&D Outdoors and Dilday & Sons. My office will not tolerate the exploitation of Missouris most vulnerable residents, said Attorney General Bailey in a statement. We are committed to holding bad actors accountable and protecting Missouri consumers from fraud and abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Bailey, D&D Outdoors allegedly provided unrequested home repair services in febuary 2025. In Versailles, the company offered a homeowner $1,000 for asphalt repair and tree trimming services. After the homeowner accepted, the company then turned around and demanded $15,000 from them. We will continue to aggressively prosecute those who target elderly Missourians through deception and intimidation, said Attorney General Bailey. The charges in this case are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. To contact the Missouri Attorney Generals Office about potential scams, call the Consumer Protection hotline at 800-392-8222 or submit an online complaint at ago.mo.gov. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. State Sen. Joe Nicola laughs during his introduction to the Missouri Senate on the first day of the 2025 legislative session (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent). An ethics complaint alleging a GOP state senator from Grain Valley was using his church as a political action committee has been formally dismissed. The Missouri Ethics Commission determined the allegations against New Covenant Ministries and state Sen. Joe Nicola were unfounded, dismissing them at a meeting earlier this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brad Ketcher, a Democrat attorney from St. Louis who filed the complaint, said he was disappointed in the outcome, but respect the commissions decision. In an email to The Independent, Nicola said he appreciated the commissions thorough review which found no violation had occurred. I take seriously my responsibility to follow both the letter and the spirit of the law, Nicola said, and Im grateful this matter has been resolved appropriately. The complaint alleged the church, where Nicola serves as president and pastor, should have registered as a political action committee because it raised money to boost Nicolas campaign for state Senate last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The church donated to Truth and Light PAC, which was established to support Nicolas candidacy. The PAC reported contributions received from New Covenant Ministries rather than from the individual contributors. The complaint alleged that in doing so, New Covenant Ministries attempted to conceal the source of the contributors. Finally, the complaint alleged if contributions were accepted at church in the collection plate it is likely there were also violations of cash contribution statutes. Nicola told The Independent earlier this year that Ketchers complaint was ridiculous. My church made donations to a PAC, Nicola said, but added he doesnt believe it was a violation of campaign finance law because his church isnt a registered nonprofit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commission seemed to agree. The investigation found that New Covenant Ministries did not accept contributions, the ethics commission wrote in its ruling. Rather, it accepted donations, which became the churchs personal funds, and the churchs financial board then decided how that money would be spent. There was no proof, the commission determined, that donations were earmarked to support Nicola or that the donations were given after solicitations to support his campaign. Because New Covenant Ministries is not a committee, it had no obligation to register with the (Missouri Ethics Commission) or disclose the source of its donations, the ruling stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ketchers complaint was originally dismissed in April because the commission was unable to meet due to the lack of a quorum. Gov. Mike Kehoe had not filled open seats on the board, leaving it unable to take action on any complaints. He refiled the complaint soon after, and this month the governor finally filled enough seats for the commission to convene. JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. The Missouri State Auditor announced on Tuesday, July 29, that an audit has started following requests from residents of the City of Willard. According to a Missouri State Auditor press release, Scott Patrick has approved an audit of the municipality located in Southwest Missouri, following 406 signatures from residents around Willard. The City of Willard needed over 386 valid signatures to trigger the audit and was able to collect more than the required amount, the release says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Missouri Attorney General sues contractor for allegedly scamming the elderly Citizens of Willard worked to acquire certified signatures following concerns with events that took place in 2023 after the former mayor resigned, who was an alderman at the time. The former mayor was charged and found guilty of a $300,000 fraud scheme at his primary place of employment, for which he received a three-year federal prison sentence. I sincerely appreciate the time and effort taken by the citizens of Willard who understand that an audit is an important tool to help improve transparency and accountability in their city government, said Auditor Fitzpatrick in the release. Given some of the turbulent events the city has experienced in recent years, I think this is a great opportunity to perform a thorough review that will give citizens a better understanding of how their city is performing and how it can improve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city was last audited in 2010 by the office, and found that the accounting records were inaccurate by not adequately separating accounting duties, and that the citys Park Fund was in poor financial condition. Individuals are told that if they want to provide confidential information during the audit by either calling the State Auditors Whistleblower Hotline at 800-347-8597 or visiting their website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. A new device designed by engineers at MIT could soon help billions of people worldwide access clean, safe drinking water by pulling it right out of thin air. That might sound like science fiction, but it's exactly what researchers have developed using a window-sized, hydrogel-based panel inspired by the folds of origami. The prototype, tested in California's Death Valley the driest place in North America produces drinkable water even in very low humidity, all without relying on batteries, electricity, or even solar panels. Water vapor exists all around us, even in dry desert air. Results published in Nature Water show that the MIT team's panel absorbs this vapor into a salt-infused hydrogel that expands like bubble wrap. When warmed by the sun, the vapor evaporates and condenses on a cooled glass surface, flowing into a collection tube. While similar models have required additional filtering because the salt can leak out during the process, this version added an extra ingredient, glycerol, which stabilizes the salt and prevents leakage meaning you have clean, ready-to-drink water, no filtering required. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even in Death Valley, the prototype captured as much as two-thirds of a cup of water per day. Multiple vertical panels could one day supply enough water for a household, opening the door for use in remote regions, refugee settlements, or disaster zones. "Passive sorbent-based atmospheric water harvesting offers a promising solution by converting ubiquitous atmospheric moisture into liquid water," researchers wrote in the report. More than 4 billion people globally over half the world's population experience water scarcity at least one month a year. In the U.S. alone, 46 million people lack reliable access to clean drinking water. This device offers a low-cost, scalable solution that could reduce dependency on strained freshwater supplies, lower the cost of delivering clean water, and improve public health especially in areas facing severe drought or infrastructure breakdowns. It's also a win for the planet, supporting efforts to protect aquatic ecosystems, conserve resources for wildlife, and stabilize weather patterns linked to prolonged dry spells. The technology curbs water waste by eliminating the need for energy-intensive filtration or desalination, making it an affordable option for off-grid living or supplementing existing systems in arid climates. Plus, this is just an early prototype it could be made even more efficient, according to the researchers. While there's no set timeline for scaled deployment, it's in motion. "This is just a proof-of-concept design, and there are a lot of things we can optimize," Liu says. "For instance, we could have a multipanel design. And we're working on a next generation of the material to further improve its intrinsic properties," said the study's lead author. Do you feel safe drinking the tap water where you live? Always Most of the time Not usually Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. If you've driven in America, then you're aware that many of the bridges in the country are deteriorating. In fact, according to the American Society of Civil Engineers' 2025 Report Card for America's Infrastructure, an estimated half of the 623,218 bridges in the U.S. are in significant stages of deterioration. The report card showed that 49.1% of American bridges are only in "fair" condition, while 6.8% are considered in "poor" condition. The estimated cost to repair all of these deteriorating bridges? $191 billion. However, MIT News reported that a team of researchers from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and the MIT Department of Mechanical Engineering may have created what could be a solution to America's failing bridge crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The team recently completed an in-field case study in Massachusetts, which successfully showed that patches for bridges could offer an incredibly cost-effective solution while also being minimally disruptive to the flow of traffic. The technique used to do the proof-of-concept repair in Massachusetts is known as cold spray. It works by accelerating powdered steel particles in heated, compressed gas, which workers then apply in layers to areas of corroded steel. By reinforcing these beams with new steel, the beams' thickness and other structural properties are restored, and since it will increase the life span of materials, this method of repair could reduce the production of steel beams, leading to less carbon pollution. This method of reinforcement has already proved to be usable in patching large structures such as airplanes and submarines, but this is the first time it has been tried out on a bridge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proof-of-concept repair builds on many years of research between MIT and UMass teams. Previously, the teams have developed a "digital thread" approach to scan deteriorating beams and determine the materials used in them, as well as completed lab studies of cold spray. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation contributed to the project, too, by helping to identify problem areas and providing support for the technology's creation. Additionally, the Massachusetts Manufacturing Innovation Initiative supported the project via equipment. MIT News reported that Simos Gerasimidis, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at UMass Amherst, explained in a press release: "It's a very Massachusetts success story." The bridge where the team did the repair patch is due for demolition in the next few years. After that has happened, the team will take the beam they applied the patch to back to the lab for further study. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to MIT News, Gerasimidis stated: "Now that we've completed this proof-of-concept repair, we see a clear path to a solution that is much faster, less costly, easier, and less invasive. To our knowledge, this is a first. Of course, there is some R&D that needs to be developed, but this is a huge milestone to that." Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. The former wife of the commissioner of Minnesotas Department of Corrections has pleaded guilty to first-degree attempted murder of her adult, disabled son after allegedly saying she wanted him to go to sleep forever. Julie Louise Myhre-Schnell, 65, admitted to crushing up her prescription anxiety medication and emptying it into her sons feeding bag at his group home in Vadnais Heights in December 2023. In exchange for last weeks guilty plea, prosecutors agreed to waive aggravating factors that would have allowed a stiffer sentence because the victim was particularly vulnerable due to age, infirmity, or reduced physical or mental capacity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the criminal complaint, she allegedly confided in people that she was hoping he would go to sleep forever. She later said it was because hed been tortured through the process of treating kidney stones and kidney-related infection for several months, DOC Commissioner Paul Schnell wrote in a court document about a text message his now ex-wife sent him. Myhre-Schnell told an investigator following the Dec. 3, 2023, incident that she intended to kill her son, who is now 34. Schnell and Myhre-Schnell married in 1987. They were foster care providers when a 3-month-old ward of the state came to live with them, becoming their son. He has spina bifida and other medical needs that require use of a wheelchair, ventilator and around-the-clock medical care. He lived with Schnell and Myhre-Schnell into adulthood. They moved him into his Vadnais Heights group home in 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May 2023, Schnell and Myhre-Schnell separated and lived in separate residences. It was amicable, Schnell wrote in a court filing. Myhre-Schnell filed for divorce on Dec. 1. I cant believe Im doing this During a June 15, 2024 interview with an investigator, Myhre-Schnell said she refilled her prescription for Lorazepam, used to treat anxiety, at the beginning of December and received 31 pills. She said when she went to her sons group home she crushed up the remaining pills the complaint didnt indicate how many and put them into a slurry of water and into his feeding bag. The whole time, I knew I was gonna try to do this, the complaint said of what Myhre-Schnell told the investigator. All night, I was like, am I really doing this? Am I doing this? Am I doing this? I cant believe Im doing this. When the investigator asked how she felt upon finding out he was going to survive she said, I was worried about them finding out through the toxicology, and I was probably trying to figure out what Im going to do. Im just going to go to jail. She said she completely regretted he survived, according to the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her son was taken to the hospital on Dec. 4, 2023, due to his altered mental status, decreased level of responsiveness and low blood pressure. He was found to not have enough oxygen in his blood. He was treated and released without a toxicology test. Myhre-Schnell, whod been a regular visitor, did not return to the group home again. Im still here Related Articles In May 2024, a family member told Schnell what his estranged wife had done and he notified the sheriffs office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the criminal complaint, Myhre-Schnell texted her son on Aug. 6, 2024 to tell him what she had done and that she had been hoping he would go to sleep forever. He responded that he was on the fence about deleting her number. The investigator talked to Schnells son about how he felt finding out his mother had done that. He replied: I made it, Im still here, but that the news was heavy and a lot to process. Hed previously told the investigator that he liked his residence and had everything he needed. He talked about his friends and what he enjoyed doing in his spare time, including volunteering weekly at the zoo. ALLENWOOD A producer of modular correctional facilities is moving into the Great Stream Commons in Gregg Township. ModCorr LLC, of Galveston, Texas, will lease a 252,282-square-foot building from PNK P2 LLC at 89 Enterprise Blvd. The company is expected to be operational by the end of 2025, according to Lauren Bryson, executive director of economic developer Focus Central Pennsylvania in Danville, and Shawn McLaughlin, the planning and economic development director for Union County. Focus Central Pennsylvania and our local and regional economic development partners are grateful for ModCorrs commitment to invest in the region, Bryson said. This project takes advantage of strategic developments made by the community and PNK Group, to create conditions to attract high-quality investment and career opportunities to the area. ModCorr will be creating advanced manufacturing positions for the high-skilled, highly dedicated talent in the area and will be able to partner with the incredible high schools, trade schools and colleges for talent and training. Pennsylvania is getting it done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The newly-leased industrial space from PNK Group was specifically designed with manufacturing in mind. The building features a 40-foot clear ceiling, capacity for crane installation, an 8-inch reinforced concrete slab, ESFR sprinkler system, and LED lighting; the facility is an ideal fit for ModCorrs manufacturing and fabrication needs, according to company officials. The property offers prime access to two interstates and Route 15, according to a media release. This is a key facility that will allow ModCorr to continue to expand and service our Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, ModCorrs Buddy Johns said. PNK provided a perfect building in a perfect location. McLaughlin said the project is expected to create 50 to 100 jobs. PNK recently completed construction of that building, which is situated along Enterprise Drive, somewhat across from the Eye Center, McLaughlin said. Its the smaller of the two large buildings. The county sold the land to PNK in 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next step is for ModCorr and PNK to finish customizing the building, installing equipment and beginning workforce recruitment. Lee & Associates of Eastern Pennsylvania LLC, of Mechanicsburg, handled the leasing agreement between PNK and ModCorr. Principal and Broker of Record Joel Kreider represented ModCorr, and the team of Ed Skonecki & Bill Shrader handled the leasing on behalf of PNK Group, the developer behind another standout industrial facility in the region, according to an announcement from Lee & Associates. This expansion is an exciting step forward for ModCorr, and we are proud to have played a role in securing a location that supports their continued growth, Kreider said. PNK Group is an engineering and production company that conducts technological development in industrial construction. As an investor, it finances its projects; as a developer, it organizes construction; as an engineering company, it designs the buildings; and as a general contractor, it erects multipurpose industrial facilities using large-unit blocks produced at its own plants, according to its website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ModCorrs patented modular housing is revolutionizing the correctional facilities industry, according to the companys website. We offer rapid, efficient delivery and setup of minimum to maximum security facilities, as well as specialty units that conform to the same building codes as traditional construction, according to ModCorrs website. Our safe, secure, and high-quality products comply with all American Correctional Association (ACA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. McLaughlin said other projects at Great Stream Commons are also progressing. These include Il Pastaio, a gnocchi manufacturer building at 18108 Russell Road, Allenwood, and Data Centric LLC, which is located on a 37-acre lot being developed by KSR Capital, a commercial real estate and investment firm based in New York City. The Il Pastaio building is under construction and continues to move ahead, McLaughlin said. Data Centric and KSR Capital are conducting due diligence as per the purchase and sales agreements. Dear Mom, Its time for us to talk about Israel. There was a while, half a year or so after the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, when we werent talking with each other about much of anything. After months of sending dueling articles over family text threads on either the profound depravity or unfortunate necessity of Israels war in Gaza, it became clear thatlike millions of other Jewish families across the countrywe were talking past each other. So I mostly stopped engaging altogether. I just found it too bewildering, painful, and enraging to watch someone I love seemingly turn a blind eye to the indiscriminate death and destruction Israel was inflicting on Gaza. But youre my mom, and Im your son, so this silence was unsustainable. Eventually, the freeze in our communications thawed. All that was required to maintain our detente was one unspoken rule: We do not talk about Israel. My therapist certainly approved. Yet the bewilderment, pain, and anger are all still there. As Israels crimes in Gaza continue to escalate, and the unspeakable horrors of those crimes pierce deeper into our brains, these feelings have been getting harder to ignore. At some point, it will do lasting damage to our relationship, and I dont want that. So we need to talk about Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Specifically, I need to express what its doing to my heart to see youand much of your generationfail to grapple with Israels ongoing genocide in Gaza. Because that is what were talking about here. Gaza now has the highest number of amputee children per capita in the world, Gazan children are being purposely targeted by IDF snipers, all civilian infrastructure across the region is being systematically leveled, Gazans are being regularly massacred at Israeli-run food distribution sites, and mass starvation is underway. This isnt a war Israel is prosecuting, and hasnt been for a long time, if it ever was. What Israel is pursuing, in the words of former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, is indiscriminate, limitless, cruel and criminal killing of civilians, not from some disproportionate outburst by some soldiers in some unit but through government policyknowingly, evilly, irresponsibly dictated. And while campaigns of indiscriminate, limitless, cruel and criminal killing of civilians do not need to constitute genocide to morally necessitate opposition, there is a growing consensusamong those who know far more than we do about what is really happening in Gaza, and those who know far more than we do about genocidethat what Israel is doing in Gaza is, in fact, genocide. That is the conclusion of human rights organizations that have been operating on the ground there, from respected Israeli organizations like BTselem and Physicians for Human Rights Israel to international organizations like Amnesty International, Doctors Without Borders, and Human Rights Watch. And it is the conclusion of genocide experts like the president of the International Association of Genocide Scholars and the editor in chief of the Journal of Genocide Research. As Raz Segal, an Israeli professor of Holocaust and genocide studies at Stockton University, put it, Can I name someone whose work I respect who does not think it is genocide? No, there is no counterargument that takes into account all the evidence. Or as Omer Bartov, another Israeli professor of Holocaust and genocide studies at Brown University, wrote recently in The New York Times, My inescapable conclusion has become that Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinian people. Having grown up in a Zionist home, lived the first half of my life in Israel, served in the I.D.F. as a soldier and officer and spent most of my career researching and writing on war crimes and the Holocaust, this was a painful conclusion to reach, and one that I resisted as long as I could. But I have been teaching classes on genocide for a quarter of a century. I can recognize one when I see one. But what about the hostages? you ask. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yes, Hamas still holds 50 hostages captive in Gaza. But a moral, rational persons evaluation of Israels atrocities should not be impacted by that reality because these are completely unrelated facts. They are unrelated in function, given that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus administration has provenagain and again, beyond any shadow of a doubt, as articulated in the clearest possible terms by the hostages own familiesthat the government is not interested in freeing the hostages, and thus is not conducting its terror campaigns in Gaza in order to do so. Indeed, the man Netanyahu recently tried to install as the head of Israels domestic intelligence agency said, I oppose hostage deals. This is a forever war. And they are unrelated in scale. Yes, it is tragic that 50 humans are being held hostage by Hamas. But thats less than half the number of humans that Israel gunned down while they were seeking food aid just this past week. Yes, it is painful to imagine the fear and hunger being experienced right now by those 50 hostages. But Israel is essentially condemning the entire population of Gaza to comparable degrees of fear and hunger. If anything, the hunger Israel is inflicting on Gazas two million human beings is worse: I have not heard of any hostages starving to death, which is what Israel has already done to hundreds of Gazans and is in the process of doing to tens or even hundreds of thousands more. This genocide is an all-of-government effort, and polling shows it is largely backed by Israelis. A recent Haaretz survey found that 82 percent of Jewish Israelis support the expulsion of residents of the Gaza Strip to other countries, with 54 percent indicating they were very supportive; 56 percent of them even supported the forced expulsion of Arab citizens of Israel to other countries; and 47 percent of Jewish Israelis said they agreed that the IDF, when conquering an enemy city, should act in a manner similar to the way the Israelites acted when they conquered Jericho under the leadership of Joshua, namely, to kill all its inhabitants. Yes, there are Israelisincluding our Israeli family memberswho strenuously oppose what is being done in Gaza, but it is clear that they represent a disturbingly small minority. The reality is that Israeli society has, to a concerningly widespread degree, been radicalized, such that it is beginning to display characteristics of the societies that have facilitated genocides in the pastincluding, to just come right out and say it, the society that committed genocide against our people. And this gets to the real crux of my letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Growing up, every aspect of my Jewish identity was connected to the Holocaust: through stories we were told by Grandpa about his childhood in Germany; the trip we took with him to Treblinka and Auschwitz; books we read like Maus and The Diary of Anne Frank; movies we watched like Schindlers List and Life Is Beautiful; songs we sang like Ani Maamin and I Still Believe; visits we made to the Holocaust Museum and Yad Vashem; and a million other everyday comments at Sunday School, Hebrew School, Passover, family get-togethers, and more. In so many ways, it was instilled in me that theres nothing worse than supporting the perpetrators of genocide, nothing more cowardly than staying silent in the face of genocide, and nothing more virtuous than standing up against genocide. And Im so grateful for this! Its a credit to you and our family and our Jewish community that Never Again was the morality that I was taught as a child and that has influenced so many of my choices as an adult. Its why as a state legislator I worked to passalongside an Armenian American colleaguea Holocaust and genocide education requirement for my states public schools. Its why Ive fought attempts to turn away refugees that reminded me of Americas failure to accept Jewish refugees during the 1930s. Its why I spent an evening in jail for engaging in civil disobedience at an ICE detention facility that had been operating much like a concentration camp. This has been a through line not just in my career but in the activism and worldview of so many Jewish Americans who were raised right by our parents. So when we see those same parents, the people we love most in the world, fail in this most elemental taskto clearly and unequivocally and loudly oppose a genocide (or even, if you still cant accept that terminology, an indiscriminate, limitless, cruel and criminal killing of civilians that strongly rhymes with genocide), let alone one being done in our namethat is not something we can agree to disagree about. When I look at my two sons, I cant not see the children of Gazascared, orphaned, disfigured, and now literally starving to deathand feel profound shame that I have not done more over these past two years to stand against these crimes. Mom, you are a beautifully kind and empathetic person in so many ways. And yet, I dont believe that when you look at your grandsons, you have ever pictured them similarly. But I need you to try. I need you to step out of your echo chamber for a moment. I need you to at least consider the possibility that what Israel is doing to Gaza is, in practice if not scale, what was done to our ancestors. In short, I need you to be the parent I have always looked up to. The role model who taught me right from wrong. The mother who taught me to say Never Again. Love, Aaron AUSTIN (KXAN) An Army post in Killeen, Texas, was renamed again, for the second time in as many years. A ceremony held on Monday marked the official redesignation of the post to Fort Hood. In May 2023, what was originally Fort Hood initially named after Confederate Gen. John Bell Hood was renamed Fort Cavazos, in honor of General Richard Edward Cavazos, a native Texan, war hero and Medal of Honor recipient. The post is now once again Fort Hood, the name now honoring World War I hero, Col. Robert Benjamin Hood. According to the Army, Col. Hood received the Distinguished Service Cross for his extraordinary heroism during WWI during an intense shelling near Thiaucourt, France. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Army restores the names of seven bases that lost their Confederate-linked names under Biden The colonels daughter, Mitzi Huffman, attended the ceremony Monday and said the redesignation in her fathers name is overwhelming. The Army shared a video of Huffman and her husband talking about the ceremony and what it meant to them. [Were] very honored to be here, were still processing this, but were very honored, Huffman said. When asked what she thought her fathers response to the name designation honoring him wouldve been, she said Hood would have been, very humbled. PHOTOS: Fort Hood name restored, Fort Cavazos signage removed Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He never talked about his military experience, Huffman said. I did not know that he had the Distinguished Service Cross until we were preparing him to be buried in Arlington. Huffman explained that she was a young teenager when Hood died, and she kind of froze the memories she had of him because she associated them with sadness, until about two months ago when the name change was announced. Huffman said after that, she was able to unfreeze and begin reflecting on some of those childhood memories with fondness. From left, Col. Mark McClellan, U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Hood commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Loyd Rhoades, U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Hood command sergeant major, uncase the colors for Fort Hood during the Fort Hood redesignation ceremony July 28, 2025, at III Armored Corps Headquarters at Fort Hood. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Ayumi Davis) Lt. Gen. Kevin D. Admiral, commanding general of III Armored Corps and Fort Hood, gives remarks during the Fort Hood redesignation ceremony July 28, 2025, at III Armored Corps Headquarters at Fort Hood. (U.S. Army photo by Ayumi Davis) From left, Lt. Gen. Kevin D. Admiral, commanding general of III Armored Corps and Fort Hood, and Mitzi Huffman, daughter of Col. Robert B. Hood, talk alongside Col. Mark McClellan, U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Hood commander, as they prepare for the start of the Fort Hood redesignation ceremony July 28, 2025, at III Armored Corps Headquarters at Fort Hood. (U.S. Army photo by Ayumi Davis) Right, 1st Lt. Austin Yoakum, member of the Salute Battery for the Fort Hood redesignation ceremony, 1st Cavalry Division Artillery, presents a 75mm round to Mitzi Huffman, daughter of Col. Robert B. Hood, during the ceremony July 28 at III Armored Corps Headquarters at Fort Hood. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Ayumi Davis) From left, Sohail Salgado, work reception technician, Fort Hood Directorate of Public Works, Operations and Maintenance Division, and Stephen Short, air-conditioning mechanic, DPW, OMD, drop a tarp at the Bernie Beck Gate sign to reveal the new name of the installation during the commemorative renaming ceremony July 28, 2025, at Fort Hood, Texas. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Janecze Wright) From left, Col. Mark McClellan, U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Hood commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Loyd Rhoades, U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Hood command sergeant major, uncase the colors for Fort Hood during the Fort Hood redesignation ceremony July 28, 2025, at III Armored Corps Headquarters at Fort Hood. (U.S. Army photo by Ayumi Davis) According to the Army, Hood was born April 8, 1891, in Wellington, Kansas. He graduated from Kansas State Agricultural College, now Kansas State University, in Manhattan, Kansas, in 1914. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hood was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army on Aug. 8, 1917, and served with Echo Battery, 12th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division. Hood was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions under fire on Sept. 12, 1918, in France during WWI, according to a press release from the Army. During a firefight, then-Capt. Hood displayed extraordinary courage and tactical brilliance as he expertly maneuvered his artillery battery under a barrage of heavy and persistent enemy fire,' the Army release said, citing the award narrative. Hood later survived the Pearl Harbor attack while stationed at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, and eventually commanded an artillery training unit at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, during World War II. After 44 years of service, he retired in 1961 as a colonel. Hood died Oct. 12, 1964, and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery, located in Arlington, Virginia, according to the Army. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Armys release stated that renaming the installation after the WWI hero was a fitting tribute, as both the man and post embodied a commitment to training and preparing warfighters. The post, originally designated Camp Hood, was established in 1942 as a WWII tank destroyer training center. It was initially a temporary post, but training ramped up throughout the 1940s, leading to the posts designation as a permanent installation, according to the Army. Fort Hoods previous name changes The Killeen post was one of nine U.S. Army installations redesignated in 2023 based on the Naming Commissions recommendations to remove the names, symbols, displays, monuments and paraphernalia that honor or commemorate the Confederate States of America, according to the U.S. Army. Slap in the face. Nephew of General Cavazos upset over army bases name change back to Fort Hood Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several of those installations names are now being restored to their previous names, President Donald Trump announced in June at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The Fort Cavazos signage was taken down and replaced with Fort Hood signage last month, shortly after the change was announced. A ceremony held at the base on Monday marked the official change and paid respect to Col. Hood, according to a press release from the Army. During the ceremony, Army Garrison Fort Hood commander Col. Mark McClellan and Army Garrison Fort Hood Command Sgt. Maj. Loyd Rhoades cased the Fort Cavazos colors and unfurled the Fort Hood colors. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. Warlocks Motorcycle Club member Thomas McDaniel traveled from Virginia for Bike Week in March and was gathering with other Warlocks at a New Smyrna Beach RaceTrac when he noticed some Mongols at the other end of the parking lot. McDaniel said he was not "alarmed," though; he was unaware of any issues between the Warlocks and Mongols in Florida. He said he didnt expect "an attack," according to an affidavit. He was wrong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Warlocks who, like the Mongols, are classified as an outlaw motorcycle gang, according to the affidavit, had gathered at the RaceTrac to ride as a group into Daytona Beach. The Warlocks watched as Mongols kept driving into the RaceTrac at 3000 State Road 44 on March 8, 2025, the last Saturday of Daytona Beach Bike Week. The Mongols parked tactically, and outnumbered and surrounded the Warlocks, blocking escape routes, according to a charging affidavit from the Volusia Sheriffs Office. Clinton Walker, a Mongols leader, then walked into the group of Warlocks and soon the fighting started. Walker drew a gun and fired while others also drew firearms and blasts of gunshots cut through the air, the affidavit stated. Mongols and Warlocks started running and ducking. Employees inside the convenience store locked the doors and called 911. Customers looked for cover. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The melee involved about 50 people, the affidavit stated. Afterward, the Mongols got on their bikes or into their vehicles and sped away. When the shooting stopped, a Mongols Tampa member had a gunshot wound to the abdomen with the bullet lodged in his pelvis. He ended up at Halifax Health Medical Center in Daytona Beach. A bullet grazed a Warlock's head. He also had a broken nose. He, too, was transported to Halifax Health Medical Center. The presence of two rival gang members at the same facility prompted the hospital to go into lockdown. Medical notes described the wounds to both men as being from accidental discharge from firearms. That is likely based on what the men themselves claimed to doctors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The brawl and shooting led to an investigation which has resulted in the arrest of numerous Mongols who have been booked into the Volusia County Branch Jail. The most recent was Mario Silvestri, 42, of Miami, who was booked into the jail on July 22 and released the next day on $50,000. Federal, local investigators launch 'Operation Mongolian Beef' Volusia County State Attorney R.J. Larizza speaks about the arrest of 28 members of the Mongols motorcycle gang during a press conference at the Stephen Saboda Training Center near Daytona Beach, Wednesday, July 2, 2025. Months after the fracas, just over 30 members of the Mongols motorcycle gang, including the one who was shot, were arrested on charges of aggravated rioting after an investigation by the Volusia Sheriffs Office, the 7th Circuit State Attorney's Office and other area law enforcement agencies. The charge is a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Law enforcement dubbed the investigation "Operation Mongolian Beef." No Warlocks were charged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McDaniel, the Warlock who traveled from Virginia, said he was hit in the back of the head with a hard object several times during the attack. The affidavit stated he may have been struck by nunchucks, a traditionally Asian weapon made from two short wooden clubs connected by a chain. Speaking about the attack, McDaniel later told investigators that the Mongols and Warlocks did not have that relationship in Virginia, apparently meaning the bad blood that would lead one group to attack the other. McDaniel said he learned after the attack that the Mongols clubhouse was only several miles away. He said maybe that may have sparked the violence. When investigators asked, McDaniel declined to pursue charges, saying that due to his lifestyle, he could not cooperate with law enforcement. Mongols, Warlocks and rising tension That lifestyle features rising tension among outlaw motorcycle gangs nationwide, which includes the possibility of injury to police and civilians, according to charging affidavit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Volusia Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies gather intelligence every year during Bike Week and Biketoberfest on outlaw motorcycle clubs, the affidavit states. Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood, along with representatives of other agencies, during a press conference at the Stephen Saboda Training Center near Daytona Beach to announce the arrest of 28 members of the Mongols motorcycle gang, Wednesday, July 2, 2025. More than 300 outlaw motorcycle gangs are active in the United States, ranging in size from single chapters with five or six members to hundreds of chapters with thousands of members worldwide. "The Mongols, Hells Angels, Bandidos, Outlaws and Sons of Silence pose a serious national domestic threat and conduct the majority of criminal activity linked to OMGs (outlaw motorcycle gangs)," in particular related to drug-trafficking and cross-border drug smuggling, according to the affidavit. The motorcycle gangs can form partnerships with major international drug-smuggling operations. The Mongols have an estimated 800 to 900 members nationwide spread across more than 70 chapters in 28 states. That includes a Mongols Chapter at 2203 Cow Creek Road in Edgewater. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Mongols also have a chapter in Flagler County, but the affidavit does not give an address. Mongols: 'A propensity for violence' The Mongols are known to have a propensity for violence, the affidavit stated. The Mongols were formed in 1969 on the West Coast, expanding to the East Coast and into Europe, Southeast Asia, Canada, Australia, Mexico, Brazil and Israel. Mongols take part in drug trafficking; illegal firearms possession and trafficking of firearms; illegal possession of explosives or explosive devices; murder; murder for hire; attempted murder; assault; extortion; intimidation; burglary; threats of violence; motorcycle and vehicle thefts; racketeering; prostitution; and human trafficking, according to the affidavit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Mongols are known to have ties to Mexican drug cartels and the Surenos, a criminal street gang, the affidavit stated. The Mongols' vest has a caricature of Genghis Khan wearing sunglasses and armed with a sword while riding a motorcycle. It has the letters "MC" which stands for motorcycle club. The top patch reads "Mongols" while the bottom has a state or chapter name. Mongols will wear patches with a skull and crossbones, a black heart or RFFN (Respect Few Fear None) showing they took part in violence against members of other motorcycle gangs in furtherance of the gang, the affidavit states. Other patches signify attending club events. The patches have black letters on a white background. The Warlocks started in Orlando The Warlocks outlaw motorcycle gang started its first chapter, also called the Mother Club, in Orlando in 1967. The Warlocks have established chapters since then in several other states and in Canada, Germany and Great Britain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Warlocks have engaged in assault; illegal firearms possession; firearms trafficking; murder; malicious wounding; illegal possession of explosive devices; kidnapping; drug trafficking; and racketeering, according to the affidavit. FBI Special Agent Jason Carley speaks about the arrest of 28 members of the Mongols motorcycle gang during a press conference at the Stephen Saboda Training Center near Daytona Beach, Wednesday, July 2, 2025. The Warlocks have a peace treaty with the Outlaws. Warlocks primary colors are red and yellow but wear variations of red, white and green. The vest consists of a top patch with the name Warlocks and a bottom patch with the state or chapter name. The center patch shows a winged harpy, a creature from Greek mythology. Both the Warlocks and the Mongols have been found in illegal possession of National Firearms Act of 1934 weapons, according to the affidavit. The act, which according to the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, was written in response to the use of such weapons in Gangland crimes of the times, like the St. Valentine's Day massacre, regulates weapons such as short-barreled shotguns and rifles and machine guns. Mongols involved in Bike Week shooting in NSB The following bikers were arrested in the brawl-turned-shooting at the New Smyrna Beach RaceTrac March 8. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kevin Koul, a Mongols member, was positively identified by a Tampa Police officer. Koul was seen holding a cellphone to his year and looking at the phone's screen at the RaceTrac, apparently making and/or receiving calls, the affidavit stated. Spencer Skipworth did not have a Mongols patch on the top of his vest, but he is a documented member of the Flagler County chapter, according to the affidavit. Brandon Maness, member of the Mongols South End chapter in Edgewater. Maness was seen reaching into a saddlebag on his motorcycle to get a black mask. "After Maness was involved in shooting toward the Warlocks," he got on his motorcycle and fled with the black mask still on, the affidavit stated. Maness is seen in a video shooting toward Warlocks. Clinton Walker is a Mongol leader who holds rank as one of two Mother Chapter representatives. According to previous stories, Walker is a former member of the Outlaw Motorcycle Club, another outlaw motorcycle gang. A video recorded Walker extending both arms outward while holding a firearm and shooting toward the east. Armed Warlock points gun, Mongols take off Jonathan Bump, a member of the Warlocks, stood up after fighting and "wobbled" to where a group of Mongols were punching and kicking a Warlock on the ground. Bump drew a gun and pointed toward the Mongols who ran, the affidavit states. RaceTrac employees and customers: Lock the doors! Store employees said Warlocks had been in the parking lot for about an hour, according to the affidavit. One employee said she noticed a woman from the Warlocks enter the store wearing a leather vest with the words Property of and a patch that said Virginia. A map shows where arrests and search warrants were served across the state as 28 members of the Mongols motorcycle gang were arrested, Wednesday, July 2, 2025, during a press conference at the Stephen Saboda Training Center near Daytona Beach. The employee said she was on the register when she heard shooting and yelled for the doors to be locked for everyones safety. Another employee heard 10 to 15 gunshots and saw everyone outside running. He said some people ran into the store and ducked down. A RaceTrac manager had been anxious about what he estimated to be about 60 to 70 bikers on the property. When he heard the shooting, he locked all the doors and asked an employee to call 911. The RaceTrac was closed for about five hours as law enforcement investigated. The manager said the business lost about $4,000 in inside sales and about $10,000 in gas sales. He said a normal Saturday for the station is $40,000 in gas sales, according to the affidavit. Bikers refused to cooperate with police Volusia Sheriff's Office detectives determined that one of the Warlocks lived in Deltona because the man and a woman were seen on video. But when they went to their house, the woman denied knowledge of the shooting and claimed the man was not home, although his truck was in the driveway. Detectives then went to another home in Deltona to try to speak with a Warlocks member but no one came to the door. Detectives also visited the home of Warlocks member Jonathan Bump in Deltona. But while cars were in the driveway, no one came to the door. The detective left a business card but no one called. Mongols charged with aggravated rioting Following is a list of the Mongols charged with aggravated rioting. The Mongols are members of chapters from around the state, including in Volusia, Flagler, Brevard and Hillsborough counties as well as South Florida: Anthony Trimboli; Kevin Koul; Sean Hoholik; Trevor Kopp; Jacob Velez; Mario Silvestri; Tyler Araya; Steve Patino-Rangel; Peri Butler; Daniel Macumber; Joseph Summerhill; Gaige Wilson; Chadwick Price; Kash Williams; Shawn Marshall; Matthew Limperatos; Douglas White; Max Bastuardo; Spencer Skipworth; John Bertrand; Robert Maness (also identified in the affidavit as Brandon Maness); Jarrad Cawley; Francis Gomez; Pablo Cardozo Baptista; Clinton Walker; Christopher Boyd; Michael Rodriguez; Daniel Hernandez; Gary Bedsaul; Timothy Stephens; and Justin Perry. This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Mongols, Warlocks Daytona Bike Week shooting. What really happened? MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) A heads up for Monroe County residents: Monroe County officials announced on Monday they will be launching a county-wide property assessment. In a release, Monroe County officials announced they have partnered with Tyler Technologies to perform a county-wide property assessment. The initiative comes after the countys last reassessment carried out in 2020, the release explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities say the years-long project comprises of assessment of property values, data collection, verification, and chances for property owners to appeal their new assessments. The reassessment is scheduled to wrap up by 2028, officials added. During the effort, the release says Monroe County Assessment staff will be performing in-person data collection throughout Monroe County and will be easily identifiable by their Monroe County-issued official ID badges and polo shirts. Two arrested, weapons, drugs seized during high-risk search warrant Assessors would knock on doors to identify themselves if anyone is home and describe the reason for their visit, county officials explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities warned residents that if someone claims to be a field assessor and attempts to enter a home, residents are urged to reach out to local law enforcement immediately. Suspicious activity can also be reported to the Monroe County Assessment Office. Field work for the assessments will only happen from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and when an adult is available, assessors may ask some questions about the property, including the listed items: Number of bedrooms and bathrooms Type of heating and cooling systems Year the home was built Construction materials and physical condition Finishing level of attics and basements Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, officials say assessors would take pictures of the exterior of any structures on the property to support accurate property valuation and identification. Residents can learn more about the reassessment project by contacting the Monroe County Assessment Office at (570) 517-3133. Property owners should expect to get data mailer postcards with QR codes starting around November 1, which will give instructions for residents to review and update their propertys data online. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to 28/22 News. A surge of monsoon moisture is bringing daily chances for rain and storms this week across New Mexico. Heavy rain will bring a risk of flash flooding each afternoon. Showers and storms developed Monday afternoon along and west of the central mountain chain. A few storms dropped heavy rain, bringing Flash Flood Warnings to parts of southern New Mexico this afternoon. Showers and storms are sticking around parts of New Mexico tonight, bringing more heavy rain and Flash Flood Warnings. Some rain will stick around into Tuesday morning in southern parts of New Mexico. It will be cloudier day Tuesday with the increase in monsoon moisture. Storms will develop first across the mountain peaks again early Tuesday afternoon. More showers and storms will develop Tuesday afternoon. Nearly all of New Mexico will have a chance at rain and thunderstorms tomorrow. A Flood Watch goes into effect for a large part of the state with a threat of heavy rainfall both on and off burn scar areas. Rain will likely stick around parts of central New Mexico Tuesday night before clearing up Wednesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wednesday and Thursday will continue this stormy monsoon pattern across New Mexico with more afternoon showers and storms. Nearly the entire state will again see a chance for rain, expect for far southeast parts of New Mexico. All storms could drop heavy rain as they will also be slow moving storms. Drier weather will start to move in Friday, but there is still a chance for scattered storms. This weekend will start to bring in some much drier air again with a few isolated storms Saturday and Sunday. Temperatures will heat up again across New Mexico with the drier air and more sunshine. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. MOORESVILLE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A Mooresville man is facing charges after allegedly intentionally setting a vehicle on fire with a victim inside, according to the Mooresville Police Department. Officers received a call Thursday about an active vehicle fire. Upon further investigation by responding officers, they said that the vehicle was intentionally set on fire by Clayon Morrison Broyhill. A victim was inside the vehicle at the time the fire was set but was able to exit the vehicle without serious injury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When MPD detectives and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force attempted to serve the arrest warrants Monday, Broyhill refused to comply and exit the residence. MPDs Special Response Team and Crisis Negotiation Team eventually talked Broyhill into coming out of the residence. The 27-year-old was arrested and charged with Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill, Burning Personal Property, Communicating Threats, and Misdemeanor Crime of Domestic Violence. After a search of the residence, Broyhill was also charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. He is being held without bond. MORE FROM QCNEWS.COM CRIME & PUBLIC SAFETY Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. More than 60,000 people have been killed as a result of Israel's military campaign in Gaza since October 2023, the Hamas-run health ministry says. It said on Monday the death toll had reached at least 60,034, including 18,592 children and 9,782 women. At least 112 people were killed in the 24 hours before late Tuesday morning, with 22 people killed while trying to get aid, the ministry said. Women and children were among those killed in overnight and morning strikes on homes, hospital sources and witnesses told the BBC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel launched its offensive in response to the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others taken hostage. In the central Nuseirat area, al-Awda Hospital said 30 people, including 14 women and 12 children, were killed in attacks on homes overnight and on Tuesday morning. Many of those killed were related, with 19 named as members of the Abu Ataya, Siyam and Nabhan families. Four members of the al-Agha family were killed and others injured in an Israeli strike on a tent sheltering displaced individuals in the coastal area of Al-Mawasi in Khan Younis, according to Nasser Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nine others were killed in Khan Younis, local hospital sources and witnesses say. In Gaza City, two people were killed and several others wounded in an Israeli missile strike on an apartment belonging to the al-Batsh family, Al-Shifa Hospital said. A later strike killed five members of one family. Rescuers have been struggling to reach casualties from another strike. Al-Awda Hospital also said at least 14 people had been killed and more than 100 injured by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) near an aid distribution point in central Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The IDF said that "contrary to the reports, following a review conducted, the IDF is not aware of casualties as a result of IDF fire adjacent to the distribution site in the central Gaza Strip". The IDF said it had struck "several terror targets" in Nuseirat and had taken steps "to mitigate the risk of harming civilians". The BBC has asked for comment about the other strikes. In a statement on Telegram, the IDF said it had "eliminated several terrorists who posed a threat" and "targeted terrorist infrastructure and multiple weapons storage facilities" over the past day in Khan Younis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also said it had eliminated "several terrorists" and dismantled "terrorist infrastructure both above and below ground" in northern Gaza, and had "struck dozens of terror targets" across the Strip. The UN says more than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed by the Israeli military while trying to get food since 27 May. Most were near distribution sites run by Israeli- and US-backed organisation Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which started operations in late May, and others near UN and other aid convoys. Tuesday's incident was related to aid convoys and not a GHF site. Israel says its troops have only fired warning shots and that they do not intentionally shoot civilians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The GHF says the UN is using "false" figures from Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry. Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official told BBC News on Tuesday that the group's negotiators had informed mediators from Qatar and Egypt it would halt indirect talks with Israel while there is starvation in Gaza. It comes after Israel and the US walked away from negotiations last week. The US said Hamas was not negotiating in "good faith", while Netanyahu said he was "considering alternative options" to return the hostages still being held in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Significant gaps remain between Israel and Hamas in the talks, including Israeli troop withdrawals, aid distribution and a permanent end to hostilities. Dire warnings about hunger spreading in Gaza continued on Tuesday, with UN-backed global food security experts warning the worst-case scenario of famine is "currently playing out" in the Gaza Strip. While Israel continues to insist it is not responsible for the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and does not impose restrictions on aid entering Gaza, those claims are not accepted by its close allies in Europe, or the United Nations and other agencies active in Gaza. On Sunday, Israel, which controls all entry of goods into Gaza, began what it said would be daily 10-hour "tactical pauses" to allow for humanitarian aid delivery, and announced the establishment of "designated secure routes" for aid convoys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tactical pauses are taking place from 10:00 (07:00 GMT) to 20:00 in three areas, meaning that air strikes are continuing overnight and elsewhere in the Strip. Israel has also allowed aid drops by foreign countries to resume, despite humanitarian agencies warning that the method was ineffective and dangerous. Israel has questioned the health ministry's figures, which do not distinguish how many of the dead are members of Palestinian armed groups. Israel's military said at the start of the year that 20,000 members of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad had been killed during the war. Earlier this month, the military's chief of staff said it had struck more than 1,300 "terrorists" in recent weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement International journalists, including the BBC, are blocked by Israel from entering Gaza independently, so are unable to verify figures from either side. In the past, figures from the health ministry were widely used in times of conflict and seen as reliable by the UN and other international organisations. Additional reporting by Rushdi Abualouf Another group of Christian denominations is suing Donald Trumps administration to stop immigration enforcement arrests in their churches. A lawsuit from Baptist, Lutheran and Quaker groups accuses Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem of chilling First Amendment protections and infringing on religious freedoms. The groups filed a motion for a preliminary injunction to block the policy on Tuesday. After Trump entered office, the administration rescinded previous Immigration and Customs Enforcement policy that prohibited enforcement actions in sensitive locations such as places of worship, as well as schools and hospitals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Within the last month, federal agents seized a man in front of a church, brandished a rifle at a pastor and detained a grandfather dropping off his granddaughter at a church school in Los Angeles, according to the lawsuit. Federal officers have also recently chased several men into a church parking lot and arrested a parishioner at churches across southern California, according to church leaders. As a result, people across the country, regardless of immigration status, reasonably fear attending houses of worship, according to the lawsuit. The open joy and spiritual restoration of communal worship has been replaced by isolation, concealment, and fear. Chicagos Lincoln United Methodist Church stopped having in-person Spanish-language services because of ICE activity in the neighborhood. Several lawsuits from denominations representing millions of worshippers have sought to block Trump administration policy allowing ICE enforcement near places of worship (Getty) Attendance and donations have plummeted, and congregations have gone underground to protect their parishioners, eschewing in-person meetings central to their faith, plaintiffs argued. Baptisms are being held in private, churches have stopped advertising immigrant-focused ministries, and houses of worship have suddenly had to lock those doors and train their staff how to respond to immigration raids, according to the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit is at least the fourth filed by faith leaders against ICE policy within the last six months. In February, more than two dozen religious groups similarly sued the administration. A federal judge ultimately partially granted a restraining order that blocked ICE from enforcement actions in roughly 1,700 places of worship in 35 states and Washington, D.C. But in April, a Trump-appointed judge sided with the administration in a similar case brought by more than two dozen Christian and Jewish groups representing millions of Americans. District Judge Dabney Friedrich in Washington, D.C., argued that drops in church attendance could not be definitively linked to ICE actions, and congregants were likely staying home to avoid ICE anywhere in their own neighborhoods rather than places of worship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As people of faith, we cannot abide losing the basic right to provide care and compassion, said Bishop Brenda Bos with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Americas California synod, among the plaintiffs in the latest legal battle. Not only are our spaces no longer guaranteed safety, but our worship services, educational events and social services have all been harmed by the rescission of sensitive space protection, Bos added. Our call is love our neighbor, and we have been denied the ability to live out that call. Homeland Security assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the administration is protecting places of worship by preventing criminal aliens and gang members from exploiting these locations and taking safe haven there because these criminals knew law enforcement couldnt go inside under the Biden Administration. Christian leadership across the country is grappling with ICEs stepped-up arrests and Trumps wider anti-immigration agenda (Getty) The lawsuit arrives as Christian leadership across the country and at the Vatican grapples with the consequences of the Trump administrations aggressive anti-immigration policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With a directive from the White House to make at least 3,000 daily arrests, ICE received record-breaking funding from Congress expanding the agencys budget to be larger than most countries militaries to hire more officers and expand detention space. Miamis Archbishop Thomas Wenski condemned public officials rhetoric praising Alligator Alcatraz, and San Bernardino Bishop Alberto Rojas in California also issued a rare decree this month excusing parishioners from attending mass over genuine fear of immigration raids. Pope Leo XIV, who is American-born and whose papacy began less than four months into Trumps presidency, had previously criticized the administrations immigration policies and rhetoric. Washington, D.C. Cardinal Robert McElroy has also criticized the administrations agenda of mass, indiscriminate deportation of men and women and children and families which literally rips families apart and is intended to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Los Angeles, the largest archdiocese in the country, Archbishop Jose Gomez accused the administration of having no immigration policy beyond the stated goal of deporting thousands of people each day. This is not policy, it is punishment, and it can only result in cruel and arbitrary outcomes, wrote the bishop, who is also a naturalized U.S. citizen from Mexico. Already we are hearing stories of innocent fathers and mothers being wrongly deported, with no recourse to appeal. More details emerge about Delta co-pilot's arrest after Minneapolis to San Francisco flight originally appeared on Bring Me The News. More details are emerging about the arrest of a Delta Air Lines co-pilot who was arrested for sex crimes against a child after landing in San Francisco on a flight from Minneapolis-St. Paul International. The 34-year-old Florida man was arrested Sunday night at the San Francisco International Airport. Contra Costa County sheriffs deputies and Department of Homeland Security agents boarded the plane shortly after it landed around 9:30 p.m. and took him into custody from the cockpit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility on five counts of oral copulation with a child under 10 years of age. His bail was set at $5 million. Delta has zero tolerance for unlawful conduct and will fully cooperate with law enforcement," the Atlanta-based airline said in an emailed statement Monday to Bring Me The News. "We are appalled by reports of the charges related to the arrest and the individual in question has been suspended pending an investigation." The Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office in California has been investigating since April, when it received a report of sex crimes against a child. The investigation is ongoing. It's not clear at this time whether the pilot has been formally charged, but a probable cause statement reported by KTVU said a female reported the pilot had sexually abused her from the age of 6-11, while he was dating her mother. Colin Brown, Flickr The girl alleges her mother was aware of the abuse, and was present for some of the sexual acts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks to DHS partnership with Contra Costa County Sheriffs Office this pedophile is behind bars," Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement. "Anyone who commits depraved crimes against a child, including U.S. citizens, will face consequences. President Trump and Secretary Noem will continue to do everything in their power to protect children from exploitation and abuse." Homeland Security initially reported that the man was arrested on child sexual abuse material charges. Bring Me The News does not typically identify a suspect until they have been formally charged. This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 29, 2025, where it first appeared. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) The Youngstown City Health District has reported the detection of West Nile Virus in mosquitoes caught in a surveillance trap at Crandall Park. While the sample mosquito population taken from the trap at Crandall Park tested positive for the virus among the pesty insects, there still have been no reported human cases. Mosquitoes all across the Valley and beyond have returned positive for the virus, including those tested in Austintown, Boardman, Bazetta, Poland, Beaver and Springfield townships along with locations in Mercer County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To learn more about how mosquito testing works in the Valley, read our behind-the-scenes coverage here, featuring Mahoning County Public Health environmental health director Colton Masters. The health department advises residents to take precautionary measures to minimize their exposure to mosquito bites. Steps to prevent bites, including wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, socks and shoes when outdoors between dusk and dawn especially light colors, which are less attractive to mosquitoes and use an EPA-registered insect repellant. The Youngstown City Health District operates separately from Mahoning County Public Health, but both send mosquitoes up to the Ohio Department of Healths labs in Columbus for testing. Early symptoms of mosquito-borne diseases may include nausea, fever, vomiting, and headache. More severe cases can include drowsiness, a stiff neck, disorientation, tremors, and possibly seizures. If you experience any of these symptoms and have a history of recent mosquito bites, its crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The following steps can be taken to eliminate mosquito breeding sites near your home: Remove water-holding containers, such as tin cans and unused flowerpots. Eliminate standing water. Ensure that all roof gutters are properly draining and clean. Keep childrens wading pools empty and lying on their side when not in use. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Every summer for the past several years, including this summer, COVID cases have increased throughout the United States as people spend time in air-conditioned spaces and as summer travel peaks. Roughly half of the states in the country currently have increasing numbers of COVID-19 infections, said Dr. Matthew Lokant, an infectious disease specialist at the West Virginia University School of Medicine. Most of those COVID-19 [infections] are associated with two newer variants being Nimbus and Stratus these are the strains that are contributing to that seasonal surge that were currently seeing in the U.S., Lokant said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are the main symptoms of a COVID infection this summer and what you can do to stay healthy: COVID symptoms this summer look a lot like symptoms from earlier strains, such as fatigue, runny nose and a headache. The COVID symptoms that Im seeing in clinic arent any different this year than Ive seen in previous years, said Andrea Harmony, a family nurse practitioner in Philadelphia. These symptoms include fatigue, fever, congestion, runny nose and cough, Harmony noted. You may also experience body aches or a headache, added Lokant. Some people experience an upset stomach, too, said Dr. Sarah Whitley Coles, a founding member of Those Nerdy Girls, an online organization thats dedicated to sharing accurate health and science information. Overall, COVID symptoms are the same as what doctors have seen in pervious years fatigue, headache, fever, cough and more. Kittikorn Nimitpara via Getty Images A painful sore throat known as razor blade throat has been associated with current infections. The more dominant Nimbus strain has had more reports of very severe throat pain, Lokant said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patients have noted sharp, stabbing throat pain, he added. Online, this is known as razor blade throat, Lokant said. It certainly is true that COVID can cause a sore throat, and a pretty bad one at that, but you shouldnt let this symptom panic you. Its not more dangerous, but certainly people feel miserable, and so Ive been encouraging folks, if youre starting to have a sore throat, let me know because this could very well be COVID, said Coles. Experts previously told HuffPost that a painful sore throat has been associated with COVID infections for some time, and while this symptom wont happen to everyone, its important to keep an eye out for it and do what you can to limit the pain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This includes staying hydrated by drinking water and herbal teas, as dehydration can irritate the dry membranes in your throat, Dr. Carrie Horn, the chief medical officer and chief of the division of hospital and internal medicine at National Jewish Health in Colorado, previously told HuffPost. Certain COVID symptoms do require medical attention. According to Lokant, if you have COVID and notice certain concerning symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain or severe dehydration (which can look like dizziness and dry mouth), you should seek medical attention. Some people need medical treatment to get better, and people throughout the country are still dying from this virus. Also, if you test positive and are at high risk for disease, let your doctor know. You may qualify for medication. If youre in a high-risk group, you can always take a medication like Paxlovid to help reduce your risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death, said Coles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement High-risk groups include those over 65, pregnant people and immunocompromised people. Your doctor can help determine if a COVID antiviral medication is right for you, Coles added. We know that a lot of people who would qualify for medications like Paxlovid are not getting them either because they dont realize that this is something that is available to them and can be helpful, or because there is misinformation about it, Coles noted. Lots of misinformation claims that COVID is just a cold, but that isnt true. It can lead to long COVID, hospitalization and even death, COVID is dangerous, and particularly dangerous for folks who have immunosuppression, other chronic medical illnesses, or people who are older, and these medications can help reduce those risks, Coles added. COVID symptoms can look a lot like the symptoms of other upper respiratory infections, which makes testing important. I think with every new variant, there is this narrative that suggests that we could tell if someone has COVID based on their symptoms, and that the symptoms are significantly different or unique, but all in all, they appear to be undistinguishable from any other upper respiratory infection, Harmony said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In other words, congestion can happen whether its COVID or a cold. I would encourage everyone to test if youre symptomatic, added Coles. COVID tests still detect the latest COVID variants and can help you decipher if youre sick with COVID or something else. If you do have COVID (and, really, any other upper respiratory virus), you should stay home and away from other people, rest and have lots of fluids, Lokant noted. And, again, if youre high-risk or have concerning symptoms, get medical attention. There are several things you can do to stay healthy, too. To keep yourself from getting infected, wear a high-quality mask, like an N95, in crowded indoor places ... wash [your] hands regularly and make sure that the folks around [you] are feeling well, Coles said, and added that if a loved one tells you they have the sniffles, consider rescheduling that get-together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even before all of those preventative measures, make sure you have the latest COVID shot. Vaccination is still, by far, the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones, said Coles. Those who are at high risk of developing COVID can get a second dose of the current COVID vaccine to stay protected during the current summer increase in cases, Coles noted. With cases rising, its important to follow all of the steps to keep yourself, your loved ones and your neighbors healthy. This is especially true because there is likely more COVID out there than whats being reported by the CDC, experts say. Our data is really poor, like how much COVID is circulating in our communities, we really dont know. Were not doing a good job of tracking it anymore, so its probably way underreported, and theres a lot more COVID going around than likely we expect, said Coles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would encourage everyone to treat it as if there is a summer surge, because we expect that there will be, or that were in the beginning of one, and to take the necessary precautions, Coles added. Related... Most Americans support President Trumps immigration goals, but they argued the administrations approach is overreaching, according to a new survey. The Wall Street Journal poll, released Monday, found that 62 percent of U.S. adults said they are supportive of the administrations deportation of migrants who are in the country illegally. Despite the support, many respondents were against two approaches the administration has taken to facilitate Trumps robust crackdown on illegal immigration: mass deportation without due process and deporting immigrants to jails in countries other than where they are from. Both approaches received 58 percent opposition, the survey shows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close to 60 percent of independents said the White House has gone too far in deporting migrants without granting them a hearing or sending them back without evidence that they are in the U.S. illegally. GOP voters were strongly supportive of Trumps immigration policies, with 90 percent of them being fully on board. Just 11 percent of Republicans said the administration has gone too far, according to the poll. Around 75 percent of GOP voters also signaled support for deporting migrants without giving them a chance to appear before a judge or sit for a court hearing. Among all American respondents, the support was at around 39 percent, the poll revealed. Nearly two-thirds of respondents, 62 percent, said the administration is deporting as many people as possible, regardless of whether they have a criminal background. Around a third of U.S. adults said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is mainly deporting migrants who are in the country illegally and have a criminal record, according to the poll. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, a Harvard CAPS/Harris poll found that 60 percent of voters supported Trumps push to close the border. The survey showed 75 percent of Americans were supportive of the administrations push to deport migrants who are in the country without authorization. The Wall Street Journal survey was conducted July 16-20 among 1,500 registered voters. The margin of error was 2.5 percentage points. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. DENVER (KDVR) The Boulder Police Department said a dog was killed by a mountain lion during an attack over the weekend. The attack occurred on Friday around 9:30 p.m., according to a Boulder police post on X, when Boulder residents were walking their small dog in the 2400 block of Balsam Avenue before a mountain lion jumped on their dog. Teenager run over by boat at Cherry Creek Reservoir Boulder police said the dog appeared to die instantly, and the mountain lion did not threaten the residents before taking the dog away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Colorado Parks and Wildlife were notified of the situation. The next day, CPW and Boulder Police Animal Protection officers responded to the same area after another reported sighting of the mountain lion. The responding parties believed that the dog from the night before or another animal was stored by the mountain lion nearby to eat later, citing it as the most common reason a mountain lion would remain in a specific area for a prolonged period of time. After the officials monitored the areas for nearly two hours, the mountain lion left the bush where it was hiding and disappeared. Animal protection officers said they were able to recover the dogs body from the nearby backyard so the family could have closure. Police share tips to protect against mountain lions The Boulder agency said that while mountain lion attacks are rare, the animals are common to Colorado and shared safety tips to keep in mind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency recommends that anyone who meets a mountain lion: Do not approach most mountain lions will avoid a confrontation Stay calm and talk in a firm voice to demonstrate you are not its regular prey Back away slowly, as running could stimulate the mountain lions chase instincts Face the lion and try to look as big as possible by spreading open your jacket or lifting objects If the lion acts aggressively, throw rocks, sticks and any other items you can without turning your back on the lion or bending down If the lion does attack, fight back: Lions have been driven away by prey that fights back The agency noted that mountain lions are an established part of the Front Range ecosystem and called them territorial and solitary. The department said that removing or relocating mountain lions observed in the city does not reduce potential conflict, as if one lion leaves an area, its usually taken over by another lion. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The focus of the Boulder polices actions on mountain lion mitigation is through education and awareness. The agency said that relocation or removal of the animals is reserved for lions that pose a direct threat to humans through abnormal or aggressive behavior. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. TOPEKA (KSNT) Mountain lions, while still rare in the Sunflower State, are starting to become a more common sight in Kansas. 27 News got in touch with Matt Peek with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) this week to find out how many people have sighted the big cats in the state recently. The KDWP received 50 confirmed sightings of mountain lions from 2007 to 2023. But that number has more than doubled in the past two years to 110 reported mountain lion sightings since 2007. Peek said that some of the sightings reported, such as the multitude of recent reports in Pottawatomie County, may have been the same cat seen multiple times by locals using trail cameras. He said it is also possible that more than one cat was present in the same county at the same time, leading to the increase in confirmed sightings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres not any evidence theres one living there [Pottawatomie County] right now, Peek said. Ticks with cloning ability and carrying blood parasite may already be in Kansas, pose danger to cattle industry Peek said biologists are closely monitoring the movements of mountain lions following recent evidence of the animals reproducing in nearby Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conversation (ODWC) confirmed the presence of mountain lion kittens in two parts of the state in October and December 2024. The populations in neighboring states are doing well, Peek said. Long-established populations in Colorado and New Mexico are thriving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The KDWP has yet to find any similar evidence of mountain lions breeding or living in Kansas. Peek said that periods where multiple sightings were confirmed in Kansas in a short amount of time recently, such as in Sedgwick or Pottawatomie counties, could indicate that mountain lions may be sticking around in some areas for an extended period of time before leaving. We know theres been multiple cats through there [Pottawatomie County], Peek said. One or more slowed down in that area. Why there instead of other areas of the state isnt completely obvious. Kansas game wardens share photo of very rare albino fawn Peek said that as mountain lion populations become more established in neighboring states, the opportunities to see the big cats in the wild go up along with the chances they may start sticking around long-term in Kansas. He said the recent discovery of mountain lion kittens in Oklahoma could mean that Kansas isnt far behind with getting its own native-born pumas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Again, theres nowhere in the state where the evidence would indicate theres one living there, Peek said. The odds of encountering one are still extremely low. The KDWP confirms mountain lion sightings mostly through help from the general public and the use of trail cameras. Peek said many of the big cats usually make a beeline through Kansas and are long gone by the time a sighting is confirmed. Were still in the monitoring phase, Peek said. We try to keep track of where theyre confirmed. What to do if you see a mountain lion in Kansas The KDWP provided a map and corresponding list displaying when and where mountain lions were confirmed to be in Kansas going back to 2007. You can find the full list and map below: 2025 Grant July 19. Riley May 2. Geary April, 23. Pottawatomie March 26. Pottawatomie Feb. 11. Sherman Feb. 7. 2024 Pottawatomie Dec. 14. Doniphan Dec. 4. Pottawatomie Nov. 17. Pottawatomie Nov. 16. Pottawatomie Nov. 9. Pottawatomie Nov. 7. Pottawatomie Nov. 7. Pottawatomie Nov. 7. Sedgwick Nov. 4. Pottawatomie Oct. 20. Pottawatomie Oct. 20. Pottawatomie Oct. 16. Pottawatomie Oct. 14. Pottawatomie Oct. 14. Pottawatomie Oct. 14. Pottawatomie Oct. 11. Pottawatomie Oct. 7. Logan Sept. 8. Meade Sept. 1. Riley July 5. Jewell July 3. Pottawatomie July 1. Pottawatomie May 28. Pottawatomie May 17. Pottawatomie April 15. Pottawatomie April 13. Sedgwick March 28. Sedgwick March 15. Sedgwick March 2. Sedgwick Feb. 27. Sedgwick Feb. 25. McPherson Feb. 15. Saline Feb. 13. Marshall Feb. 12. Pottawatomie Feb. 21. Pottawatomie Feb. 5. Pottawatomie Feb. 6. Russel Jan. 31. 2023 Pottawatomie Dec. 22. Marshall Dec. 22. Pottawatomie Dec. 12. Pottawatomie Dec. 11. Pottawatomie Dec. 6. Pottawatomie Nov. 22. Pottawatomie Nov. 18. Labette Oct. 18. Riley Nov. 4. Riley Nov. 2. Labette Oct. 17. Thomas Oct. 20. Labette Oct. 13. Allen Oct. 9. Marshall July 28. Pottawatomie July 20. Pottawatomie July 19. Riley April 10. Pottawatomie April 8. Jefferson March 30. Riley Feb. 23. 2022 Chase Nov. 26. Morris Nov. 4. Elk Oct. 14. Chase Oct. 13. Wabaunsee Oct. 4. Shawnee Sept. 26. Riley Sept. 12. Nemaha Aug. 29. Leavenworth May 11. Washington Feb. 18. Republic Feb. 17. Republic Feb. 12. Ellis Jan. 20. Ellis Jan. 18. 2021 Sedgwick May 18. Sedgwick May 10. Gray Feb. 6. Gove Jan. 25. 2020 Kiowa Dec. 24. Barber Dec. 20 Riley Dec. 19. Gove Dec. 19. Ellis Dec. 13. Osborne Nov. 13. Decatur Oct. 27. Comanche Oct. 24. Rawlins Oct. 1. Kiowa Aug. 25. 2019 Rooks Jan. 27. 2016 Riley Dec. 2. Geary Nov. 9. Wabaunsee Nov. 24. Shawnee Nov. 20. Rawlins Sept. 16. Ford Oct. 23. Reno Sept. 4. 2015 Sumner Sept. 9. Barton Aug. 23. Ellis Aug. 15. Rooks Aug. 3. 2014 Labette Sept. 24. 2012 Stafford Oct. 31. Washington Jan. 18. 2011 Atchison Nov. 14. 2010 Nemaha Dec. 7. Republic Oct. 19. Cheyenne March 26. 2009 Trego Oct. 9. 2007 Barber Nov. 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can make reports of rare wildlife sightings in Kansas by heading to the KDWPs website. To learn more about mountain lions in Kansas, click here. Should you help a turtle cross the road? For more Kansas Outdoors, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. Ground testing has begun on the production representative MQ-25 Stingray tanker drone for the U.S. Navy. This comes ahead of an expected first flight before the end of this year, a goal the Navy has previously said will require a ton of work to achieve. Manufacturer Boeing disclosed the start of ground testing of the production representative MQ-25 during a quarterly earnings call today. For years now, the company has been using a flying MQ-25 demonstrator, also known as T1, to support work on the Stingray, but that test article is not fully reflective of the production-standard configuration. The T1 demonstrator links up with a US Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet during a test. USN Boeing announced the delivery of the first of nine pre-production MQ-25s to the Navy last year. Four of those drones will be Engineering Development Models (EMD), while the other five will be System Demonstration Test Articles (SDTAs) to be used for fatigue and other static testing work. The Navys plan remains to eventually acquire a total of 76 Stingrays. In its 2026 Fiscal Year budget request, the service is asking for funds to buy its first three production MQ-25s at a cost of approximately $161.51 million each. A picture of the first pre-production MQ-25 that Boeing released last year. Boeing The Navy is currently hoping to reach initial operational capability (IOC) with the MQ-25 in Fiscal Year 2027. When Boeing won the Navys Carrier-Based Aerial-Refueling System (CBARS) competition in 2018, the IOC target date was in 2024. The schedule subsequently slipped multiple times, due to technical issues and other factors, including downstream impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. The Stingray program has also seen significant cost growth as a result. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As noted, a production representative MQ-25 still has yet to fly, and the Navy itself has raised questions about the presently stated flight testing schedule. Theres a lot of confidence in MQ-25 and [20]25. There is a ton of work to get MQ-25 and 25, Navy Vice Adm. Carl Chebi, head of Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), said during a panel discussion at the Navy Leagues annual Sea Air Space exhibition in April. 70% of the capability that we deliver, [that] industry delivers to us, is late. So were pushing hard. Were going to fly this thing [Stingray] this year, he added at that time. Theres a lot of work right now. A lot of tough discussions are going to have to happen over the next couple months for us to fly that thing in 2025. MQ-25 will fly this year because the airplanes telling us its ready to go fly, and airplanes will tell you when theyre ready to go fly, and this one is certainly ready to do that, Dan Gillian, vice president and general manager of Air Dominance at Boeing, said while speaking at the same panel as Chebi. #MQ25 on the move! The first @USNavy MQ-25 Stingray recently moved off the production line to our static test facility. This is the first of nine Stingrays to be put through static, fatigue and flight tests to ensure durability and airworthiness. pic.twitter.com/2UvYoKnK7G Boeing Defense (@BoeingDefense) September 14, 2023 MQ-25 has had some challenges along the way, he also acknowledged, but expressed further confidence in the current first flight schedule. We have our first airplane thats going to go fly this year over at our facility in MidAmerica [Airport outside of St. Louis, Missouri], brand new facility. Were really excited about it, and the program is building momentum each and every day. And when we fly this airplane later this year, it will be the safest, best unmanned airplane that weve ever produced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Gillian noted, initial flight testing is expected to occur at MidAmerica. The Navy does not presently expect to begin flight testing from an actual aircraft carrier until next year. Boeing and the Navy have previously conducted deck handling and other tests using the T1 craned aboard the Nimitz class carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77), but that drone has never launched from or recovered on a flattop. Last year, George H.W. Bush also became the first Navy supercarrier to receive a dedicated drone control center. Issues with the MQ-25 program notwithstanding, the Navy continues to describe the Stingray as a critical element of its planned future carrier air wings. MQ-25, plus long-range weapons and kill chains, plus a robust command and control, and platforms that can gain access to contested environments, are the vision and the key to the future of the carrier air wing to be able to operate out in the Pacific, Capt. Lew Callaway, head of the Strike Aircraft and Weapons Branch within the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations Air Warfare Division, said during a panel discussion at the WEST 2025 conference in January. I want to pivot to the MQ-25 because its the nearest, most important capability that were going to field in order to extend the range and the persistence of the carrier air wing. Extending the reach of the carrier air wing, together with eliminating the need to use crewed F/A-18F Super Hornets in the tanker role, are the Navys stated primary reasons for acquiring the MQ-25. The drones will also have a secondary intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capability. TWZ has previously explored in detail how the MQ-25s design also offers a clear path for the Navy to employ the drones in a much wider array of roles, including as a long-range strike platform, in the future. A Boeing model depicting a future version of the MQ-25 armed with a pair of AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM). Jamie Hunter A Boeing model depicting an MQ-25 armed with a pair of AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM). Jamie Hunter Navy officials also regularly describe the MQ-25 as the central pathfinder in the services broader efforts to integrate more uncrewed capabilities into future carrier air wings. The Navy has a long-standing goal to eventually see 60 percent or more of the aircraft embarked on its carriers be pilotless. At the same time, the service has made no secret that its main focus now is on getting the MQ-25 into service, and that it is taking a back seat to the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Marine Corps when it comes to future Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) type drones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United States Navy is in a tri-service memorandum of agreement and understanding with our sister services, the U.S. Air Force, as well as the Marine Corps, and we are developing that [CCA] capability together. Each of us are focused on a different aspect of that, Navy Rear Adm. Michael Buzz Donnelly, director of the Air Warfare Division (N98) within the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, also said at this years Sea Air Space exhibition. The Air Force is leading and very forward leaning in the development of the actual air vehicle and the autonomy that goes in those for execution of mission. Marine Corps is working closely to develop manned-unmanned teaming between platforms such as the F-35, the F-35B being the baseline for their aviation capability right now. And the United States Navy is working based on our pathway of unmanned into the fleet with MQ-25. As we work together for the United States Navy, I will tell you that we are definitely in the follow of those three services, he added. Its also worth noting that the Navys broader future carrier air wing plans have been upset recently by the decision to effectively shelve work on a new sixth-generation carrier-based stealth combat jet, commonly referred to as F/A-XX. The Pentagon has said this decision was made in order to focus resources on the Air Forces F-47 program, and that Americas industrial base cannot support two sixth-generation fighter programs simultaneously. Boeing, the prime contractor for the F-47 and a contender for the F/A-XX contract, has notably pushed back on that assertion. A Boeing rendering of a notional next-generation carrier-based combat jet design. Boeing Nothing in the Joint Force projects combat power from the sea as a Carrier Strike Group, which at the heart has a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier (CVN). To maintain this striking power, the CVN must have an air wing that is comprised of the most advanced strike fighters, Adm. Daryl Caudle, the current nominee to become the next Chief of Naval Operations, wrote in response to a question about F/A-XX ahead of his confirmation hearing last week. Therefore, the ability to maintain air superiority against peer competitors will be put at risk if the Navy is unable to field a 6th Generation strike fighter on a relevant timeline. Without a replacement for the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and E/A-18G Growler, the Navy will be forced to retrofit 4th generation aircraft and increase procurement of 5th generation aircraft to attempt to compete with the new 6th generation aircraft that the threat is already flying. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Navy has a validated requirement for carrier-based 6th generation aircraft, and it is critical that we field that capability as quickly as possible to give our warfighters the capabilities they need to win against a myriad of emerging threats, he added. In the meantime, with ground testing now underway, Boeing and the Navy are still pushing forward toward a first flight for the production representative MQ-25 configuration, an important step toward finally getting the Stingray into operational service. Contact the author: joe@twz.com LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Employees at Michigan State University are bracing for impact after the university announced more than 100 layoffs due to SNAP-ED funding cuts. 6 News spoke to an MSU Extension employee, Stathis Pauls, who says the jobs at risk are Community Nutrition Instructors (CNIs), who were funded by SNAP-ED. Tightening the reins: MSU to lay off more employees As the university prepares to lose $10.5 million in its annual funding for its SNAP-ED program, Pauls says he is worried about whats to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont have an exact number, said Pauls. Were still trying to figure that out, but it could be anywhere from 90 to 120 employees, and thats roughly, if not more than a quarter of the extensions employee base. MSU begins some layoffs amid financial uncertainty Pauls manages The Detroit Partnership for Food, Learning, and Innovation, which is an urban farm and research center. He says that while his position is not at stake, many of his coworkers jobs are. So, Im thinking about three CNIs in my office whove been doing this for 30 years, said Pauls. Thats 30 years of relationships. 30 years of trust. 30 years of community building, and its gone with one pen stroke. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNIs teach kids, teenagers, adults, and even the elderly how to make health a priority in their daily lives. Absolute violation: MSU union president reacts to job cuts The SNAP-ED program helps those who are on SNAP benefits to establish healthy eating habits and stay active while staying on their food budget. Pauls coworkers tell him theyre stressed about losing their positions, but worry more for the communities that may lose access to the support the programs provided. He says the funding cuts are unprecedented and will hurt Michigan families. These are people out in the community, said Pauls.Were out in the community trying to make a difference for everybody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. On X Monday evening, Marjorie Taylor Greene castigated fellow MAGA Republican Representative Randy Fine for denying the starvation crisis in Gaza. She also notably joined the small cohort of members of Congress to describe Israels actions in Gaza as a genocide. Greenes post came in reaction to a New Republic story on AIPAC hiding its endorsement of Fine, following his controversial comments last week in which he dismissed a report about the starvation of Palestinians in Gaza, including children, as Muslim terror propaganda. Release the hostages, Fine wrote. Until then, starve away. Greene questioned Fines commitment to his constituents in Floridas 6th congressional district, citing his alleged decision to move with his wife to Washington, D.C., rather than, per Greenes advice, to live in the district he will represent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I can only imagine how Floridas 6th district feels now that their Representative, that they were told to vote for, openly calls for starving innocent people and children, Greene wrote. Its the most truthful and easiest thing to say that Oct 7th in Israel was horrific and all hostages must be returned, but so is the genocide, humanitarian crisis, and starvation happening in Gaza. Greene added that Fines statement, as a Jewish U.S. Representative, will only cause more antisemitism. Greene joins only a handful of progressive lawmakers in condemning Israel for committing genocide. Several leading humanitarian organizations have already concluded that Israels war on Gaza amounts to genocide, including Amnesty International, Doctors Without Borders, and, most recently, BTselem, a prominent Israeli human rights group. Greenes stance on Israel has radically changed since the period immediately after Hamass October 7, 2023, attackat which time she smeared a pro-Palestinian protest on Capitol Hill as an insurrection and sought to censure Representative Rashida Tlaib on spurious allegations of antisemitism. (The resolution attacked Tlaib for allegedly sharing a social media post blaming America for allowing the deaths of Palestinian babies at the hands of Israel.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, Greene has become a frequent critic of Israel, even introducing a bid earlier this month to cut funding for Israels missile defense system, in which she was joined only by four progressives and fellow Republican Thomas Massie. This story has been updated. AUSTIN (KXAN) Thursday, Austin City Council is set to declare a maximum property tax rate, which it will use as a cap during its ongoing budget process. The tax rate thats ultimately adopted by city council may end up being lower than that cap. Much of that discussion Thursday is likely to be centered around declaring a maximum tax rate higher than what is allowed by state law without ultimately triggering a tax rate election. In 2019, Texas lawmakers made it so that local governing bodies cannot raise the property tax rate year-over-year more than 3.5% without taking that hike to voters. Band-Aid budget: Council members concerned proposed budget cuts too much from community needs Because our community has raised important issues and questions about Austins needsand the potential need for a tax rate election to meet those needsit is likely that the maximum tax rate we declare on July 31st, will be a tax rate that, if ultimately adopted, would trigger an election. This is because, if we dont declare the possibility of such a rate, then we preclude a TRE. I believe we will want to keep our options open as we go through the budget process. It is possible (more likely, probable) that the maximum rate we declare on July 31st is higher than what we will finally adopt when we pass a budget. Austin Mayor Kirk Watson What would the proposed budget cost you without a tax rate election? Right now, the city managers proposed budget sits at the 3.5% limit set by state law. Still, that proposed budget would cost the average ratepayer and homeowner $268.23 more per year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That breaks down to a proposed property tax rate of $0.5276 cents per $100 assessed property valuation. So the typical Austin homeowner would see an increase of $12.90 per month, or $154.83 per year, in the citys portion of their annual property tax bill. The citys rates and fees, including for electricity, trash service, water, drainage, and the transportation user fee, would also rise under the proposed budget. Add those in and the projected increase for the typical Austin tax and ratepayer is $22.35 per month, or $268.23 per year. Austin city manager proposes $6B+ budget, as mayor floats tax rate change The city of Austin accounts for roughly a quarter of your property tax bill. Austin Independent School District (AISD) takes the largest chunk. Travis County, the Austin-Travis County health district (Central Health) and Austin Community College also take property taxes from you. How much would it cost if Austin votes to go above that 3.5% rate? According to Watson, every one cent the tax rate increases, the typical taxpayers bill will go up by another $40.26 per year. But it would also generate roughly $21.6 million in city services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Austin budget building: Your council members concerns, priorities heading into work sessions While some homeowners can declare property tax exemptions like homestead, senior or disability exemptions those only apply to homeowners, not landlords. Watson expressed concern that those rate increases would be passed from landlords to renters. Austin is too unaffordable. Theres an inherent tension between collecting the publics money to pay for our needs and adding to our affordability challenges. We have to be balanced, disciplined, and stable in this difficult process. We dont want to inappropriately contribute to the problem we say were trying to solve, Watson said. But some city council members have expressed concern about the cuts made in the current budget and what it will mean for services if the city doesnt ask voters for more money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Austin City Council Member Mike Siegel said in his newsletter that his plan is to advocate for a $0.07 cent tax rate increase, which would trigger a tax rate election. I know it is painful to increase taxation, but the alternatives are worse. We want pools open in summer, parks and roads maintained, health programs to promote immunizations, and housing programs to provide shelter, Siegel wrote. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. A group of Apache women asked a federal judge in Washington, D.C., to halt a disputed land exchange at the center of a long battle over plans to build a huge copper mine at Oak Flat. It's the fourth lawsuit that seeks to stop the U.S. Forest Service from signing over title to the site, held sacred by Apache peoples and culturally significant by other tribes, to Resolution Copper in exchange for other plots of environmentally sensitive land in Arizona. The four women, who all have spiritual and cultural connections to the 2,200-acre campground in Tonto National Forest about 60 miles east of Phoenix, filed their suit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia July 24. Nelson Mullins, a law firm based in Washington, D.C., and South Carolina, outlined the case, which asks Judge Timothy J. Kelly, an appointee of President Donald Trump, to stop the exchange until the plaintiffs can have their day in court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suit claims the exchange violates the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, the plaintiffs' First Amendment-guaranteed religious rights protections and two environmental laws. "So much has been taken from our people," Sinetta Lopez, one of the plaintiffs, said in a statement that accompanies the filing. Being told that they should be content to hold their ceremonies at the San Carlos Apache reservation instead of their sacred place amounts to a misunderstanding of their practices, she said. "It is the original place and has a special power and connection with the Ga'an (messengers between the Creator and humans) and the White Painted Woman or Changing Woman, the first matriarch of our people." She said those connections are unique to Oak Flat. The lawsuit also brought two new factors into play: a recent high court decision that affirms parental rights to direct their children's religious education and references to Justice Neil Gorsuch's blistering dissent to the Supreme Court's refusal to hear Apache Stronghold's case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "(The court's) decision to shuffle this case off our docket without a full airing is a grievous mistake one with consequences that threaten to reverberate for generations," Gorsuch wrote in May. Resolution, which asked to become a party in the newest lawsuit, said the litigation was a "transparent attempt to relitigate issues that have already been decided by the courts that govern the project site." And the federal government questioned the timing of the litigation and asked why it took so long for the women to come forward with their religious objections. Naelyn Pike, 25, a citizen of the San Carlos Apache tribe, speaks to protestors at Oak Flat about the importance of environmental protections. Pike and members of Apache Stronghold, gathered to discuss possible actions by the federal government. Women: 'Plan to destroy Oak Flat will devastate me and my people' Traditionally in Indian Country, women are given the responsibility to pass cultural teachings to the next generation. "The roles that American Indian and Alaska Native women serve including matriarchs, life bearers, cultural teachers, artists, storytellers, homemakers, healers, writers and mentors is profound," said Cheyenne and Arapaho writer Montoya A Whiteman. "The strength, knowledge, spirit, ingenuity and beauty of past generations are in each of us." Apache people are no exception. The women asking the court to halt the exchange each issued personal statements about what Oak Flat meant to them spiritually, how they pass religious and cultural teachings to their own children and why the site should be preserved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Angela Kinsey said her family regularly traveled to Oak Flat for acorn picking, gathering medicinal plants and ceremonies. "To me, Oak Flat is home," she said. "It is our religious home. You cant recreate what is there." Nomie Brown said her grandfather's illness was healed after visiting Oak Flat and receiving blessings and prayers. Brown, 21, held her Sunrise Dance ceremony at the site in 2020. She said if she ever has children of her own, passing on Apache faith and traditions would require experiencing Oak Flat and its direct connection to the Creator. "If the governments plan to destroy Oak Flat goes through, it would be devastating to my people and to me specifically," Brown said. "(It's) not only a place where I practice my faith, but a part of me and of all Apaches would be gone." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lopez said she wanted her 11-year-old daughter to have the same opportunity to practice Apache religion as her older daughter, 21-year-old Gouyen Brown, another plaintiff in the suit. Lopez said her younger daughter, who suffered from Graves disease, also was healed by the waters at Oak Flat. "If Oak Flat is destroyed, I will be unable to pass on my faith on to my daughters or raise them with the ceremonies and spiritual experiences that are central to our Apache religion," Lopez said. Resolution Copper wants to extract copper from Oak Flat, a campground that is part of the Tonto National Forest in Miami, Arizona. The method of extraction the mining company wants to use will eventually create a giant sinkhole on land sacred to the Apache. Religious rights and water clash with the thirst for copper For more than two decades, Oak Flat Campground, known to Apaches as Chichil Bidagoteel, "the place where the Emory oak grows," has been ground zero in a battle over Native religious rights on public lands and to preserve one of Arizona's most scarce commodities, a working wetland. The campground and riparian zone lie over one of the nation's largest remaining bodies of copper. Resolution said the site has the potential to become one of America's biggest copper mines. A spokesperson for the company said the mine would contribute $1 billion annually to the state economy and provide thousands of jobs in the Copper Triangle. The spokesperson also said that significant consultation and review of the project has led to major changes in the plan to preserve and reduce potential impacts on "tribal, social, environmental, and cultural interests." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tribes, environmentalists and their allies have been fighting to prevent Oak Flat from being given to Resolution Copper in the exchange. The company had pursued the land with the Forest Service for about 10 years before it was attached to a defense bill in December 2014 by a group of lawmakers led by the late Sen. John McCain. To obtain the copper ore, Resolution, which is owned by multinational firms Rio Tinto and BHP, will use a method known as block cave mining in which tunnels are drilled beneath the ore body, and then collapsed, leaving the ore to be moved to a crushing facility. Eventually, the ground will subside, leaving behind a crater about 1,000 feet deep and nearly 2 miles across where Oak Flat and its religious and environmental significance now stand. Grassroots group Apache Stronghold filed a lawsuit in January 2021 in federal court to stop the land swap, citing religious rights guarantees under the First Amendment and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, a religious freedom nonprofit law firm, accepted the case and, along with a group of private attorneys and law professors, has represented Apache Stronghold, which includes Apache and other Native peoples and their allies. The San Carlos Apache Tribe and a consortium of environmentalists and Arizona tribes filed their own suits. Those two lawsuits were placed on hold pending the issuance of the new EIS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Biden administration rescinded the environmental impact statement in March 2021 for further consultation with tribes. The Forest Service announced a consultation concluded in 2023. Resolution was granted permission to join the lawsuit in 2023. In 2024, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against Apache Stronghold in a 6-5 decision. That fall, the group appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court. The Forest Service's announcement in April that the process would move forward again set off a flurry of court filings to stop or at least put the move on hold, which opened up a 60-day period beginning June 20, when the new EIS was filed, within which the land exchange could take place. Apache Stronghold won a temporary halt to the proceedings until the high court either decided not to take the case or issued a decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Supreme Court turned Apache Stronghold down in May. Apache Stronghold in turn has asked the high court to reconsider its request to have the case heard. On June 9, U.S. District Court Judge Dominic W. Lanza barred the Forest Service from completing the land exchange until Aug. 19, the required 60 days after the new EIS was issued, to give parties from the other two lawsuits sufficient time to review the environmental impact statement and revive their litigation. The tribe and environmentalists jointly asked Lanza to halt the exchange until their two lawsuits have run their course. Lanza will hear arguments Aug. 6. Sacred places: Do courts protect Native religious rights? Oak Flat copper mine opponents voice doubts Feds, Resolution question why the women waited so long The federal government asked why it took the group so long to file a suit. "Plaintiffs waited to file their motion for more than three months after Federal Defendants provided public notice of their intent to publish the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for the Resolution Copper Mine Project," the administration's attorneys argued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They also asked that the case be transferred to the Arizona district court, where other Oak Flat cases have been adjudicated. Resolution said that federal courts have all sided with the government and the copper mine to allow the project to move forward. "It is time that plaintiffs stop attempting to use the courts to delay a project that was mandated by a bipartisan Act of Congress more than a decade ago, supported by three presidential administrations, and has been upheld under settled law by courts at every level," the spokesperson said. The women's attorneys said the issue needed a fresh review in light of Gorsuch's statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The federal governments participation in the intentional and needless destruction of an irreplaceable Native American sacred site violates multiple federal laws and the U.S. Constitution," a spokesperson for law firm Nelson Mullins told The Arizona Republic. "As Justices Gorsuch and Clarence Thomas recently observed, it would be a grievous mistake' to allow this to occur 'without a full airing' of the important legal issues at stake; we hope Judge Kelly will agree." Lopez said the threat to Oak Flat is a threat to her ability to practice Apache religion and pass her religion to her daughters. "This is one of the few sacred places we have left that is still alive," she said. "Discounting the power of that place is like saying to Christians that there isnt anything unique or special about the Church of the Holy Sepulcher or the places Jesus walked. "We wouldnt let those places be turned into copper mines." Debra Krol reports on Indigenous communities at the confluence of climate, culture and commerce in Arizona and the Intermountain West. Reach Krol at debra.krol@azcentral.com. Follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, @debkrol and on Bluesky at @debkrol.bsky.social. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Apache women ask courts to halt land swap for Oak Flat MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11) Three civilians and an off-duty NYPD officer were killed when an active shooter opened fire in a Manhattan skyscraper in Midtown Monday evening, officials said. The building at 345 Park Ave. was evacuated. More Local News Around 7:48 p.m., city sources told PIX11 News that a suspect was dead. Mayor Eric Adams later confirmed the suspect had died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. A fifth victim who was shot is in critical condition, sources said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four other victims are being treated for minor injuries sustained trying to flee the scene, officials said. Adams, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, and other officials hosted a press conference Monday night. We are still unraveling what took place, said Adams. Five innocent people were shot tonight. We lost four souls to another senseless act of gun violence, including a member of the NYPD, Officer Didarul Islam of the 47th Precinct. He was only 36 years old and a 3-and-a-half-year veteran of the department. Another man who was shot remains in critical condition. At around 6:28 p.m., the 911 call center started receiving reports of an active shooter inside 345 Park Avenue, said Tisch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surveillance shows a male exiting a black BMW carrying an M4 rifle in his right hand. The building security camera footage shows the shooter entering the lobby, turning right, and immediately opening fire at an NYPD officer. He then shoots a woman who took cover behind a pillar. He makes his way to the elevator bank, where he shoots a security guard who was taking cover behind the security desk. One additional male was shot in the lobby, per his own statement. The shooter then calls the elevator that opens in the lobby. A female exits the elevator, and he allows her to pass him unharmed. He goes up to the 33rd floor and begins to walk the floor, firing rounds as he travels. One person was struck and killed on that floor. He proceeds down the hallway and shoots himself in the chest, she said. Tisch said police searched the vehicle and found a rifle case with rounds, a revolver, and ammunition. The vehicle traveled cross country through Colorado on July 26, Nebraska and Iowa on July 27, and Columbus, New Jersey, at 4:24 p.m. today, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two people briefed on the investigation told the AP the suspect was identified as Shane Tamura, of Nevada. They said law enforcement officials located identification on Tamuras body, including a concealed carry permit from Las Vegas. The people were not authorized to discuss details of an ongoing investigation and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity. FDNY firefighters wheel a gurney across the street as police respond to a shooting incident in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York on July 28, 2025. Police are investigating an active shooter incident, New York Mayor Eric Adams said on X (formerly Twitter) with the NYPD advising residents to avoid the vicinity of East 52 Street between Park Avenue and Lexington Avenue. (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP) (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images) The New York Police Department responds to reports of an active shooter at 51st Street and Park Avenue on July 28, 2025, in New York City. (Barry Williams/New York Daily News/Tribune News Service via Getty Images) The building houses the NFL, Blackstone, and other offices. This story comprises reporting from The Associated Press. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. The judge in Elon Musk's racketeering lawsuit against Sam Altman chastised both sides on Tuesday. She accused both of "gamesmanship" in their year-old battle while granting a small victory to Musk. In a previous judicial eye-roll, she termed the tech titans' tiff "billionaires vs billionaires." The California judge for Elon Musk's racketeering lawsuit against Sam Altman granted the Tesla CEO a small legal victory Tuesday, but not before dinging both sides for trying to waste her time with "excessive" court filings. "The court will not waste precious judicial resources on the parties' gamesmanship," US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Here, the parties to this action have repeatedly over-litigated this case," she wrote. The judge's terse, two-page decision grants Musk's request that she trim Altman's bulky response to the bulky, 2024 lawsuit, which accuses OpenAI and Microsoft of civil racketeering, fraud, breach of contract, and violating antitrust laws. Altman's lawyers responded by filing a list of 55 "affirmative defenses." (Affirmative defenses are to be proven at trial by the defense.) Filing 55 affirmative defenses was an overblown response on Altman's part, Gonzalez Rogers wrote Tuesday, agreeing with Musk's lawyers on that point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Plaintiffs are correct that defendants have inappropriately asserted an excessive number of defenses, many of which appear to be irrelevant, redundant, insufficient or immaterial," she agreed. But Musk's lawyers answered Altman's excessiveness with still more excess, she said. Musk's side "failed to take the high road, instead moving to strike all of the asserted defenses," the judge wrote Tuesday. "They too over-reached." It's not the first time Gonzalez Rogers voiced her impatience with the two clashing tech titans. At a court hearing in February, she said she was skeptical of Musk's claim of irreparable financial harm, noting that this was a case of "billionaires versus billionaires." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "How can I say, as a matter of law, there is a likely restraint of trade when your client has raised $11 billion" for rival xAI, she asked then. Lawyers for Altman had hoped to defend all 55 affirmative responses at an August court hearing, but Gonzalez Rogers cut things short Tuesday, trimming their number down by 16. These 16 were "plainly insufficiently alleged, irrelevant, redundant or immaterial," she said. They include Altman's assertion that the lawsuit should be tossed out because its claims are too old, that it was brought with "unreasonable delay," and that it is voided by "Musk's unclean hands," a reference to alleged misconduct that was left unspecified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Altman's 55 defenses were "untethered," Musk's side had countered in a filing last month, "to any coherent legal theory, facts, or cause of action." In their July 10 filing, Altman disagreed and called Musk's attempt to strike all 55 defenses "nothing more than a tactical maneuver" to delay turning over evidence in the case. Musk is accusing Altman's OpenAI of abandoning its "not for profit" origins and raking in millions through a self-dealing "unregulated merger" with Microsoft. He seeks monetary damages and a judgment voiding OpenAI and Microsoft's licensing agreement. Altman's side denies Musk's allegations in their entirety and seeks to fight them at trial using the surviving 39 defenses. Gonzalez Rogers has set a March 30 date for jury selection in her Oakland, California courtroom. Read the original article on Business Insider HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) A Myrtle Beach woman who last month was charged with the murder of an 11-year-old in her care is now facing multiple allegations of forced underaged labor, authorities said Tuesday. Camisha McGaskey, 31, and Margaret Roberson, 56, were both charged Monday with five counts of trafficking minors and criminal conspiracy, reportedly for making them perform cleaning services at various locations, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division said. Between Jan. 1 and June 11, McGaskey and Roberson picked up minors at their homes and brought them on cleaning jobs at various medical facilities in the Conway area, arrest warrants show. Margaret Roberson and Camisha McGaskey SLED partnered with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the cases are being prosecuted by the 15th Circuit Solicitors Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McGaskey was initially charged with obstruction of justice tied to the death of AKyri Bell, who died June 13 at Carolina Forest Hospital from what authorities said was multiple blunt force trauma. Horry County Police Chief Kris Leondhardt announced June 18 that McGaskeys charge was upgraded to murder. The incident happened at about 5 p.m. June 13 on Sago Palm Drive off Highway 501 and Legends Drive, where the report said officers responded to assist an EMS crew already on the scene. Bell lived in Texas but had been staying at the home with a man who authorities think was her fathers cousin. This was a horrific crime, Leonhardt said at a news conference. This poor 11-year-old victim suffered multiple injuries. If you see these types of things in our community, please, please, report these things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police initially charged McGaskey, Lakesha Burnett and Alantis Thomas with obstruction of justice. Arrest warrants said they prevented, impeded, or interfered a law enforcement investigation by providing known false statements and attempting to obscure and destroy evidence related to the death of a juvenile victim. News13 has reached out to the solicitors office for more information. * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) Businesses on North Clinton Avenue are criticizing a letter sent out by the City of Rochester ordering them to shut down early on the final day of the Puerto Rican Festival. The City of Rochester sent out memos to business owners asking for their cooperation to close for the day at 4 p.m. on August 2. Businesses that refuse will face a forced shutdown under the gun violence state of emergency, and owners may face a Class B misdemeanor charge. At a press conference on Tuesday, business owners along N. Clinton Ave. shared their concerns surrounding the citys decision. Albert Algarin, president of the North Clinton Avenue Business Association, called the letter aggressive, unprofessional, and unequal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think if youre going to force such a law, you should force it equally and fairly across the city, not select who you want to select and force laws that are not right into this community, what were doing today, youre scaring the merchants, said Algarin. Following the end of the festival in previous years, there had been multiple incidents reported, prompting concerns about public safety. The City says the early closures of businesses will help ensure neighborhood safety and security. The City of Rochester released a statement saying the letter was distributed after vocal requests from neighbors and community members. They cited incidents such as assault, stabbings, and mass shootings: The City of Rochester, for the second year in a row, has distributed a letter requesting businesses along North Clinton Avenue close early on the last night of the Puerto Rican Festival, this year on Saturday, Aug. 2. This effort continues in response to vocal requests from neighbors and other community members after serious incidents of violence in previous years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Puerto Rican Festival is a safe and family-friendly event that occurs far from North Clinton Avenue. But historically, a large number of people gather along that corridor after the festival closes, and in previous years, assaults, stabbings, and even a mass shooting have occurred. Since the City has initiated this and other safety measures, violence during this weekend has significantly decreased. Orlando Ortiz, the president of the Puerto Rican Festival, shared the following statement with News 8 about the citys request: We understand the concerns raised by business owners along North Clinton Avenue regarding the Citys request to close early on the final day of the Puerto Rican Festival. The letter from the RPD, which mirrors the one sent last year, was issued as part of ongoing efforts to ensure public safety and minimize large gatherings that have historically occurred along the corridor after the festival ends. Over the past seven years, the Northeast Safety Committee has worked diligently and collaboratively with community leaders, local businesses, and law enforcement to reduce incidents and create a safer environment for all residents of the City. While we acknowledge the impact that early closures may have on business operations, this measure is intended to support the overall safety of the community, which is one of our top priorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We remain committed to working with the City and RPD to find more effective, collaborative solutions moving forward that protect both public safety and the economic vitality of our local businesses. This is a developing story. Stay with News 8 for future updates. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. New Hampshires secretary of state, a Republican, has declined to assist the Trump Department of Justices efforts in collecting a vast swath of information about the states election processes, including the states voter rolls. Earlier this summer, the Trump administration sent letters requesting to see several states voter rolls as part of what appears to be an effort to interfere in upcoming elections, continuing Donald Trumps yearslong conspiracy theories about purported election irregularities. New Hampshire was among the states that the Justice Department wanted to question about its processes for voter registration and the removal of ineligible voters. Secretary of State David Scanlan replied in a letter of his own last Friday, answering some questions but saying others ask for information that pose cybersecurity risk if disclosed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He continued: As you know, the Department of Homeland Security regards election systems and assets as critical infrastructure, defined by Congress as systems and assets, whether physical or virtual, so vital to the United States that the incapacity or destruction of such systems and assets would have a debilitating impact on security, national economic security, national public health or safety, or any combination of those matters. Scanlan also gave a straightforward reply in the negative in response to the request to see his states voter rolls. New Hampshire law authorizes the Secretary of State to release the statewide voter registration list in limited circumstances not applicable here, he said. Municipal checklists of registered voters are public information in New Hampshire, however, and Scanlan suggested the department make individual inquiries with the dozens of local officials who maintain those lists. The Trump administration and its allies in the Republican Party have been ramping up their election-meddling efforts ahead of the 2026 midterms, with some states pursuing mid-decade redistricting to gerrymander their congressional districts as others voluntarily turn over voter data to Trumps overtly antidemocratic Department of Justice. Other states have been willing to stand up to the administration. This also includes Maine, where Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, a Democrat, gave a colorful response to the Trump administrations demands. My answer to the DOJ is, Go jump in the Gulf of Maine, she said in a recent interview. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com PRENTISS COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) Prentiss County deputies said they arrested a man who was naked at a park. Prentiss County Sheriff Randy Tolar responded to the incident at Fossil Park in Frankstown on July 25. The sheriff arrested Donald Richey Hatfield, 57, of Booneville, for indecent exposure. Worker dies in accident at Mississippi university: report According to Tolar, they found a felony amount of hydrocodone in a vehicle. They also found a small amount of methamphetamine. Donald Richey Hatfield (Courtesy: Prentiss County Sheriffs Dept.) Hatfields bond was set at $5,000. The Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) also placed a hold on Hatfield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. The past few weeks have seen the worst deterioration in Irish-US relations for many decades. What is widely seen as Irelands extreme anti-Israel obsession collided with the realities of American business and geopolitical interests. It was the war in Gaza that changed everything. The Irish political elite, which for complicated historical reasons was never very sympathetic to the Jewish state, became hyper supportive of the Palestinian cause. President Higgins, the grand old man of the Irish Left cast in the mould of a Jeremy Corbyn led the offensive. Nearing the end of his second seven-year presidential term, Michael D, as he is widely known, is hugely popular in Ireland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Within days of the Hamas October 7 massacre, EU president Ursula von der Leyen visited Israel to show solidarity with the victims and express support for Israel in the wake of the unprovoked attack. Speaking in Rome a few days later, President Higgins called Ms von der Leyens actions reckless and said she wasnt speaking for Ireland. President Higgins continued, we cannot ignore the long-neglected source of much of this conflict, which is the Palestinian issue. This was interpreted by some Jews as offering a ham-fisted and very misguided justification for the Hamas invasion of ten days earlier. Under the Irish Constitution, the presidency is primarily a ceremonial institution. Like the King, Irish presidents are meant to be above politics with no role in setting policy. In his multiple statements on Israel, Gaza, and Palestine, President Higgins has comprehensively undermined this constitutional boundary. Other senior politicians have been equally vociferous. Tanaiste (deputy prime minister) Simon Harris boasted: We are the first government in the European Union to say what Israel is doing is genocide. Taoiseach Micheal Martin has also claimed repeatedly that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As relations between Ireland and Israel continued to deteriorate, last December Israel closed its embassy in Dublin because of the extreme anti-Israel policies of the Irish government. It was against this toxic background that the Occupied Territories Bill (OTB), a piece of legislation that had lain dormant for years, was suddenly revived. The proposed legislation seeks to ban trade between Ireland and the Israeli occupied territories. Last year, Ireland exported goods to the value of 73.6bn to the US larger than those of the UK (64.5bn). Total US corporate investment in Ireland comes to almost half a trillion dollars greater than the combined US investment in the EUs four largest economies, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. US firms account for 70 per cent of Irelands annual corporate tax revenue, and for one in six private sector jobs. These astonishing statistics show how Irelands current and future prosperity is fundamentally dependent on America. Incredibly, the Irish government now seems willing to put the nations economic wellbeing at risk, ostensibly because of imports from the occupied territories of mainly avocados, dates, and olives with an annual value of just 136,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The considerable economic myopia of the OTB is matched only by its political naivete. Its definition of occupied territories even includes areas that America recognises as being fully under Israeli sovereignty. Take Jerusalem. The bill compounds its US political problems by describing the area of Jerusalem where the American embassy is located as an illegal Settlement. Recently, there have been many dire warnings of the potentially severe consequences of passing the OTB. Jim Risch, the Chair of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, did not pull any punches. Ireland, he said, is on a hateful, anti-Semitic path that will only lead to self-inflicted economic suffering. If this legislation is implemented, America will have to reconsider its deep and ongoing economic ties. Two weeks ago, an Irish Times poll suggested that the Irish public is becoming increasingly concerned about the bills potential negative consequences. Displaying classic signs of buyers remorse, almost half of those polled were in favour of either not passing it, or wanted further clarification on its economic implications. There are signs too that the government is catching up with the changing public mood. In a let-this-chalice-pass-from-me moment, a government minister said that the whole issue of the boycott should be dealt with at EU level. Frankly that would be the best solution. Indeed, as that would get the government off the hook on which it had impaled itself. It was a belated recognition that Ireland may have gone too far out on a limb on this issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the Dail in summer recess, the government has some breathing space to assess its options before the OTB comes up for legislative review in the autumn. But that assumes that the current resident of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue does not throw a wobbly over the OTB in the meantime. And with the irascible President Trump, that is always a non-trivial risk. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. BOSTON (AP) Officials in Massachusetts' Nantucket island on Tuesday accused the developer of the nation's first utility-scale offshore wind project of not responding to their safety queries since Donald Trump's election after a massive wind turbine broke apart last year and its fragments washed up on beaches. Nantuckets select board gave Vineyard Wind two weeks to respond to a list of demands, including that it follow deadline requirements for notifying local officials of emergencies. Violations could result in fines up to $250,000, the town said, although it was unclear how such a policy would be enforced. Board member Brooke Mohr suggested the Trump administration's skepticism toward offshore wind projects is to blame for what Mohr said was Vineyard Wind's lack of communication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The town said Vineyard Wind, which is owned by Denmark-based Avangrid Renewables and Copenhagen Infrastructure in partnership with Spain-based Iberdrola, has failed to respond to private requests for changes to its protocols. Litigation may be a next step if the towns demands are unmet, officials said. We believe that they are concerned about the change in policy at the federal level and drawing scrutiny from the new administration, which has ordered a review of offshore wind permitting practices, Mohr said during a virtual briefing with news reporters. However, hiding is not the solution to their problems, nor is it the solution to our problems. The project about 14 miles (23 kilometers) off nearby Martha's Vineyard was approved by President Joe Biden's administration in May 2021, a key step in Biden's plans to increase U.S. reliance on offshore wind by 2030. Fiberglass fragments of a massive wind turbine blade that broke apart off Nantucket began washing ashore last summer during the peak of tourist season after pieces of the blade at the Vineyard Wind project began falling into the Atlantic Ocean in July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the final days of the Biden administration, federal regulators lifted a suspension order on the project, pending the removal of all installed blades manufactured by GE Vernova. GE Vernova, which agreed to pay $10.5 million in a settlement earlier this month to compensate island businesses that suffered losses due to the blade failure, blamed a manufacturing problem at one of its factories in Canada and stated that there was no indication of a design flaw. It reinspected all blades made at the factory and removed other blades made there from the Vineyard Wind location. On Tuesday, town officials accused Vineyard Wind of violating its legal obligations to communicate regularly with the town or engage the town with its emergency response plans following the blade failure. It also said Vineyard Wind hasn't done enough to reduce light pollution. Nantucket officials refused to include Vineyard Wind as a signatory in the $10.5 million settlement, citing the companys lack of leadership, transparency, and stewardship following the blade failure. Mohr said in the settlement, the town didn't "seed its rights to hold Vineyard Wind accountable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Vineyard Wind spokesperson said that after concluding the settlement process, it has anticipated resuming traditional communications and coordination" with the town "in a manner that supports a productive dialogue. Vineyard Wind believes the settlement represents a fair and conclusive outcome for all parties, and hopes the Town of Nantucket will move forward in the spirit of that settlement and work together towards a constructive, positive relationship," the company said. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) Nashville Mayor Freddie OConnell had little to say when asked about the announcement to build a tunnel from the Nashville International Airport (BNA) to downtown Nashville. Elon Musks The Boring Company representatives were joined by Gov. Bill Lee Monday to announce the The Music City Loop, an electric-vehicle tunnel to usher people to and from downtown Nashville. The project aims to connect downtown Nashville to the airport along Murfreesboro Pike, which is a state route. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Music City Loop tunnel to connect BNA with downtown Nashville Gov. Lee emphasized construction would come at no cost to the taxpayers. People are coming here by the millions, and now, with the Music City Loop, the Boring Company is set to transform the airport to downtown travel experience, Lee said. And for those that live here, that means that therell be less congestion on our roads. Therell be less wear and tear on our highways. The Boring Company is planning to begin construction following the completion of the approvals process. The project is getting mixed feedback with some Tennessee officials hoping the tunnel eases traffic congestion and reduces commute times by using Tesla vehicles in the high-speed tunnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nashville Mayor Freddie OConnell released a statement, which reads: We are aware of the states conversations with the Boring Company, and we have a number of operational questions to understand the potential impacts on Metro and Nashvillians. Mayor OConnell News 2 caught up with Mayor OConnell Tuesday morning after he spoke at a conference but his spokesperson said he did not have time for interview. While leaving the event, he did mention the city has submitted questions. Weve submitted a list of questions and so were looking forward to the opportunity to get answers.I dont know if weve released them publicly but well, Im sure they all come out over time, said Mayor OConnell. When reached for comment, Vice Mayor Angie Henderson said, It was an interesting press conference. I remain skeptical about such a tunnels potential beyond a novelty excursion. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com U.S. Senators for Tennessee, Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty, applauded the project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hagerty said he was delighted in The Boring Companys vision. We look forward to welcoming The Boring Company to Nashville, Blackburn said. We look forward to the successful completion of the loop. The public-private partnership was also celebrated by the President and CEO of the Nashville Area chamber of Commerce, Stephanie Coleman. Nashville is a city defined by creativity and defined by our public-private partnerships, Coleman said. Our region attracts entrepreneurs, business leaders and investors from around the world, and were proud to be a place where bold, world-class ideas actually come to life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Justin Jones denied access to airport event Musks drilling company previously built a 1.7-mile loop underneath the Las Vegas Convention Center. The current loop system is designed for 4,400 passengers per hour with three large stations. Construction on a larger-scale loop to encompass Vegas with 68 miles of tunnel and 104 stations is underway. An estimated 20 million travelers pass through BNA every year. The company expects the first segment of the Loop to be operational as early as fall 2026. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Many observers, including NATOs official communications site, hailed last months NATO summit as historic, primarily due to a landmark pledge by core member states to increase defence spending to 5% of GDP by 2035 a significant shift from the current target of 2%. President Trump played a key role in pushing for this increase and has framed the summit as a major foreign policy win. Its a great victory for everybody, I think, and we will be equalised, Trump said of the new spending commitment. However, just a few days earlier, Spains categorical refusal to meet the 5% target had threatened to derail the Summit. Although Spain did end up signing the final communique, it secured a special concession from NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte that enables the Spanish government to increase its military spending to just 2.1% of GDP for now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spain will have the flexibility to evaluate whether it can comply with the 5% target, and this will be reviewed in 2029 (once Trump is no longer in office). Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that the agreement allows Spain to fulfil its obligations to NATO without the need to increase investments. Sanchezs defiance greatly irritated Trump, who did not hesitate to publicly berate Spain: They want a little bit of a free ride but Im not going to let that happen. Spains refusal comes against a backdrop of growing EU-US tensions, with Trump wielding tariff threats to make NATO members fall in line. Following Junes NATO summit, he said Were negotiating with Spain on a trade deal. Were going to make them pay twice as much. Pedro Sanchez reports on the agreement with NATO to allocate 2.1% of GDP to defence. La Moncloa, Madrid (Spain) - 22 June 2025. La Moncloa/Fernando Calvo Resistance to the 5% target For decades, NATOs defence spending benchmark stood at 2% of GDP, a goal that many members struggled to meet. The new 5% target, introduced by the US Administration in a context of heightened geopolitical threats, was endorsed by core European states, who see it as necessary to counter Russian aggression and modernise allied forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But for Spain, which currently spends just under 1.3% of GDP on defence (the lowest in the NATO alliance), the leap to 5% is not only financially untenable, but also politically toxic. The main reason for Spains dissent is domestic. Sanchezs centre-left coalition includes the left-wing Podemos party, as well as several regional pro-independence parties opposed to militarisation. In addition, increasing defense spending is not popular among the general population. Spaniards would prefer the government to focus on security issues on the southern flank, with key priorities such as migration and instability in the Sahel. The 5% framework, as presented, reflects a Russia-focused threat perception that is not shared by most Spaniards. For them, the Ukraine war is too remote. Spain maintains that the challenge isnt about spending more, but about spending more wisely and innovatively. As InfoDefensa reported, Spanish officials used the NATO summit to stress that not all threats can be addressed with frigates and armaments. The irony is surely not lost on the Spanish government that the US demands 5% from NATO allies, but only spent 3.4% of its own GDP in 2024. Leer mas: How Nato summit shows Europe and US no longer have a common enemy Spain is not the only sceptic among NATOs ranks. Slovakia, while less vocal, has also expressed ambiguity towards the 5% threshold. President Peter Pellegrini formally backed the target in The Hague, though just days before the NATO summit, Prime Minister Robert Fico declared that neutrality would suit Slovakia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Belgium has also voiced concerns about the feasibility of the 5% target. Prime Minister Bart de Wever stated that 3.5% within 10 years was a more realistic goal. Meeting of the North Atlantic Council (NAC) at the level of Heads of State and Government at the last NATO Summit. NATO NATOs internal divisions These reservations reflect broader divisions among the NATO members that are both geographic and economic in scope. Eastern NATO states like Poland and the Baltics, driven by acute threat perceptions from Russia, see higher military spending as existential. Southern and Western states, including Spain, Italy and Belgium, are more focused on strategic autonomy, hybrid threats, and the need for a multipolar defence posture. Slovakia, although Eastern and sharing a border with Ukraine, surprisingly seems closer in mindset to Spain than to Poland. On the economic front, some EU economies have ballooning debts ranging from 105% GDP for Belgium, 113% for France to a whopping 135% for Italy. In this context, spending 5% of GDP on defence seems like a political non-starter as they would be forced to cut spending on social services like healthcare and education. Although they signed the 5% pledge, many NATO allies privately admit they will never meet it. Leer mas: Nato leaders pledge increased defence spending is this really the price for peace and prosperity? The Center for Strategic and International Studies described the commitment as largely symbolic, arguing it represents little more than Europe bending the knee to Washington, rather than a well-calibrated strategic adjustment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NATO allies had to display a united front at the Summit, which meant members did not openly criticise Sanchezs position. The only exception was Poland, whose Defence Minister, Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, told the Financial Times that making exceptions is detrimental to the unity of the Alliance. What comes next Spains defiance may prove to be a bellwether. While no other country has gone as far as Madrid in publicly rejecting the 5% target, scepticism abounds behind closed doors. Italy and Belgium remain well below current NATO spending thresholds, and even Germany, despite recent increases, has voiced reservations about raising its defence budget indefinitely. Discrepancies in meeting the target will probably exacerbate tensions within the alliance and with the US. If nothing else, Spains stance has forced the alliance to come to terms with a simple reality: unity, under pressure, is more complicated than ever. Este articulo fue publicado originalmente en The Conversation, un sitio de noticias sin fines de lucro dedicado a compartir ideas de expertos academicos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lee mas: Waya Quiviger no recibe salario, ni ejerce labores de consultoria, ni posee acciones, ni recibe financiacion de ninguna compania u organizacion que pueda obtener beneficio de este articulo, y ha declarado carecer de vinculos relevantes mas alla del cargo academico citado. FORSYTH COUNTY, N.C. (WGHP) Investigators have revealed what caused a home in Forsyth County to explode, injuring four people on July 24. The Griffith Fire Department was first notified of a possible gas odor near the home that would later explode at 9:52 p.m. on July 24. At the time, firefighters were unable to find the source of the gas odor The explosion occurred at 11:58 p.m. on July 24 at a home on Friedberg Church Road in Forysth County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firefighters say that there were four people inside the home and that their injuries ranged from minor to life-threatening. One person was entrapped inside the home while it was on fire and suffered a secondary collapse. Firefighters entered the home and found the trapped victim. They gave them lifesaving aid before turning them over to Forsyth County EMS, who took them to a local hospital. The other 3 victims were also inside the home when the explosion occurred and were given aid by the firefighters as well before being taken to the hospital by EMS. Two of those victims have since been released from the hospital. One of the victims who remains hospitalized is suffering from burns to 40% of their body and the other victim who is still in the hospital is suffering from burns to 22% of their body. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A firefighter was also taken to the hospital due to suffering from heat exhaustion and has since been released. Investigators have ruled that the cause of the house fire was a natural gas explosion. They are still working to locate the source of the gas leak that caused the home to ignite. Anyone who was near the explosion and has any footage of it is asked to email deputy fire marshal Anthony Stewart at stewaraj@forsyth.cc or contact the Forsyth County Fire Marshals Office at (336) 703-2550. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP. Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren and Vice President Richelle Montoya announced their reconciliation efforts on July 24, 2025. Photo courtesy of the Navajo Nation Office of the President After nearly two years of estrangement, allegations of sexual harassment and a call for resignation, the Navajo Nation president and vice president are ready to work together again. I am looking forward to actually being able to do my job at the level that I need and that I should be doing it at, Navajo Nation Vice President Richelle Montoya said in an interview with the Arizona Mirror. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren and Montoya met on July 22 to discuss reconciliation, a move their office describes as a step toward healing and unifying the Navajo Nation. The President and Vice President reminded each other of why they committed to run for the two highest offices on the Navajo Nation, and the dedication they share to serving our people, according to a press release from their office. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The announcement of the reconciliation comes nine months after Nygren terminated Montoyas authority over any projects and called for her resignation as the vice president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We acknowledged that we will not always agree with each other, Nygren said in a written statement. Our reconciliation is greater than our personal feelings, he added. It is about the needs of the people and ensuring we continue to focus on the projects that matter to our people. Nygrens office did not respond to an interview request. The move toward reconciliation comes over a year after the working relationship between Nygren and Montoya imploded in 2024 after she publicly accused him of bullying and harassing her. She first alluded to issues within the executive office during her remarks at the Navajo Nation Councils spring session on April 15, 2024, then followed that up with a Facebook Live the next day in which she said she was sexually harassed and bullied in an incident that happened in August 2023, though she didnt name the alleged perpetrator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May, Nygren confirmed in a press conference that Montoya had accused him of acting improperly during a meeting in his office on Aug. 17, 2023. The Navajo Nation Attorney Generals Office launched an investigation into the allegations in April after Montoya voiced her claims of harassment and bullying. Based on the preliminary findings, the investigation concluded that further investigation into Vice President Montoyas sexual harassment claim and the appointment of a Special Prosecutor are not warranted. In response, Montoya demanded that the full report be released and that she be provided a copy. She told the Mirror that she never got the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Montoya said she understands that many of the Navajo people may be wondering how she feels moving forward with the reconciliation after everything that has happened. Im still nervous, she said. I still have my guard up and I still have boundaries around me to try and protect myself and my people. Montoya said she doesnt know how long she will feel nervous around the Nygren administration, but she wants to work toward a positive environment and mindset. My number one goal is my people, making sure that they are safe and that they have what they need to survive on our Navajo Nation, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Montoya said that reconciliation is the best way forward because it shows there was a disagreement and a break between the two, she said. To move toward something more positive, they need to come back together and figure it out. As part of the reconciliation efforts, Montoya said they signed a memo that outlined some of the priorities she would be overseeing for the remainder of their administration. The priorities include health, education, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives and animal control. Montoya will also represent Nygren in federal meetings in Washington, D.C., related to any of those priorities. The office announced that Nygren authorized replacing the vehicle used by the vice president with a new tribal vehicle. Montoya will also receive additional staff, and they will rehire a former staff member to assist her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Montoya begins to travel more to engage with the community and leadership, Nygren said the public and fellow leaders should be patient and support this transition as they work through the reconciliation process. We have agreed that this reconciliation will take time, Nygren said in the press release. We are confident that we will have a successful reconciliation. Monotya said she is still working out the details of her offices budget and how many staff members from Nygrens administration she would have access to. He asked me to be patient with them, and Im not too sure what that meant, she added, but she did request details about the job responsibilities of the staff members within the administration and whether she could view their resumes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said viewing these details will help her understand their strengths and how she can use them to help with the initiatives she will be overseeing. Montoya said that Nygren has created an office with 42 executive staff assistants. During their meeting, she said Nygren told her that he hopes that through this reconciliation, she will gain access to their resources. Working as the vice president with no support over the last year has not been easy for Monotya. She operated with zero staff and no budget. She drove herself to events and had no security detail. Montoya said when Nygren announced in October of last year that he was terminating all of her authorities within the administration, that rippled across the country and impacted her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That hindered me from doing my job, she said, because she encountered many people who took his announcement as law, and that made it harder for her to work with others on any of her initiatives. It was a bit difficult, Montoya said, adding that many told her that they were told it would damage their working relationship with Nygrens administration if they also worked with her. Moving forward, Montoya said her priority is the Navajo people. I just wanna let my people know that Im here for them still, she added. Im always gonna be here for them. Montoya said she would not be the vice president if it were not for the Navajo people, and she asks for their patience as she works to reconnect with the president of the Navajo Nation. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE NBC Nightly News executive producer Meghan Rafferty will exit the evening newscast to join Versant, the forthcoming Comcast spinoff that will include most of the companys cable TV brands. Rafferty will become vp of news standards for Versant, a job tasked with setting and maintaining the companys journalistic standards at both MSNBC and CNBC, and guiding both newsrooms. Raffertys hire was announced internally by Brian Carovillano, who leads standards and editorial partnerships for the company. More from The Hollywood Reporter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She will help lead our News Standards Team and guide newsrooms at MSNBC and CNBC to ensure the work is fair, accurate and transparent, he wrote in a memo. Shell collaborate with colleagues across our news platforms, as well as legal and other departments, and she will report to me. Rafferty has led Nightly News since 2021, working with both Lester Holt and Tom Llamas. The broadcast is expected to name a new ep in the coming weeks, with Rafferty moving to Versant in September. Before joining NBC News Rafferty spent a decade at CNN, producing interviews and stories for journalists like Wolf Blitzer and Christiane Amanpour. Versant has been staffing up ahead of the looming split, which will see MSNBC and CNBC severed from NBC News. In connection with the change, MSNBC has had to build an entire news organization from scratch (with a heavy emphasis on political news), and hiring executives that will be tasked with developing the companys digital strategy. You can read Carovillanos memo, below. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Team, Im thrilled to share some exciting news as we continue to build out our leadership team supporting the growing newsrooms across both MSNBC and CNBC. Meghan Rafferty is joining VERSANT as Vice President of News Standards, beginning in early September. In this role, Meghan will be a key voice within both networks news leadership, helping to set and maintain the highest standards for our journalism. She will help lead our News Standards Team and guide newsrooms at MSNBC and CNBC to ensure the work is fair, accurate and transparent. Shell collaborate with colleagues across our news platforms, as well as legal and other departments, and she will report to me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No stranger to many of us here, Meghan joins us from NBC News, where she has been the executive producer of NBC Nightly News, anchored by Tom Llamas and Lester Holt, a position she has held since September 2021. Under her leadership, NBC Nightly News was recognized with a News and Documentary Emmy for Holts exclusive interview with President Biden, just days before he ended his reelection bid. Driving Nightlys in-depth investigative and foreign reports, Meghan was among those honored with a 2025 George Polk award for the investigative series Dealing the Dead and a Murrow Award for Best Newscast in 2022. She joined NBC Nightly News as a senior producer in 2017. Prior to joining NBC News, Meghan was with CNN for 10 years where she produced Wolf Blitzers newsmaking interviews with presidents and world leaders. In 2009, she launched Christiane Amanpours program, working as the lead editorial producer, and she was later nominated for an Emmy for producing Amanpours interview with Zimbabwes President Robert Mugabe. Meghan received a News and Documentary Emmy award for her role in CNNs 2012 election coverage and a Peabody for her work in the field during the 2011 Gulf Oil Spill. Please join me in welcoming Meghan to VERSANT and the news standards team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brian Carovillano SVP of Standards & Editorial Partnerships for News Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. A photograph of US President Donald Trump and convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is displayed after being unofficially installed in a bus shelter on July 17 in London, England. The president is facing criticism from his usually loyal Republican Make America Great Again (MAGA) supporters over suggestions that the administration is hiding details of Epsteins crimes to protect the high profile figures he associated with, which included Trump (Leon Neal/Getty Images). Twenty years ago, investigative reporter Barry Levine started covering a wealthy socialite named Jeffrey Epstein. Five years ago, after he was convicted of sex crimes and died in jail, Levine published an acclaimed book on Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And last week, as the controversy surrounding mountains of FBI data and evidence about Epstein slowly consumed the government and threatened the Trump presidency, Levine penned a powerful essay in the New York Times detailing the questions to which Americans deserve answers. His central message quote With the exception of redactions required to protect the innocent and materials that must be withheld while under court seal, the complete F.B.I. files should be released. And amazingly in these divided times, most North Carolina Democrats and Republicans agree. As Senator Thom Tillis put it succinctly, release the damn files. The bottom line: President Trump, as well as many other prominent people were close to Epstein and for the good of the country, Americans deserve to know the full truth about whether any of them were involved in his criminality. For NC Newsline, Im Rob Schofield. North Carolina Rep. Carla Cunningham (D-Mecklenburg) speaks on the House floor on July 29, 2025. Cunningham voted to override on Gov. Josh Stein's vetoes, breaking with her Democratic Party colleagues. (Photo: Galen Bacharier/NC Newsline) North Carolina lawmakers began voting to override Gov. Josh Steins vetoes on Tuesday, forcing into law several contentious measures after a handful of House Democrats defected to vote with the Republican majority. Most votes in the Senate came with little suspense, as Republicans hold a veto-proof majority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But in the House, GOP leaders had no votes to spare. One seat short of a supermajority, they joined with several key Democrats to override the governors veto on an array of bills: cracking down on immigration enforcement, restricting changes to birth certificates for transgender people, allowing concealed weapons in private schools and repealing an emissions goal for Duke Energy. The overrides were not secured without some scrambling. One of the Senate overrides failed briefly, before Sen. Bill Rabon (R-Brunswick, Columbus and New Hanover) changed his vote on the bill on concealed weapons in private schools. And in the House, as key Democrats cast their deciding votes and broke with their party, one rose to defend their vote on an immigration bill in a fiery speech. Another, who provided the deciding vote on the bill decried as a GOP culture war proposal by other Democratic members, said he had moral issues with the legislation. I think theyve got a handful of members on the Democratic side of the House who just recognize that theyre up here to serve their constituents, House Speaker Destin Hall (R-Caldwell) told reporters Tuesday after the votes. And they recognize particularly that sometimes means compromise on issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several controversial measures did not receive override votes in the House on Tuesday, including the a measure to allow anyone 18 and older to carry a concealed gun without a permit, and bans on diversity, equity and inclusion. Lawmakers are set to return tomorrow, but it could also be months before the House calls up those bills for votes. We have a year-and-a-half left in this, Hall said. And were obviously going to be back here, whether thats sometime this year or whether its in the short session next year. Democrats decisions to vote with GOP: Curbing immigration and moral issues Republicans needed just one Democratic vote to secure an override. On all of Tuesdays votes, they got that and sometimes more. Among the most consistent defectors was Rep. Carla Cunningham (D-Mecklenburg). During debate on an immigration bill to require sheriffs to comply with ICE detainer requests, she rose to defend her vote. She believes that those who immigrate must assimilate in the United States, she said, and adapt to the culture they wish to live in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said she had been called racist for her vote, but said she would not be silent in the face of those who disagree with my ideology on the issue of immigration. We have been naive, Cunningham continued. We have been exploited and abused by the different tactics to gain citizenship in America. Its time to wake up. Her remarks spurred a rare interruption from a member of her own party, when Reb. Deb Butler (D-New Hanover) called a motion to end debate and move to a vote. Cunningham finished her speech shortly after. So today, if you ask me to line up behind another group of people to raise awareness about their plight, I will unapologetically say no,' Cunningham said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Shelly Willingham (D-Edgecombe) also signed off on several overrides. He voted for an expansion of the state auditors powers and to allow private school employees to carry concealed weapons. And he joined Cunningham in support of bills that repeal a Duke Energy emissions goal and ban agencies from collecting donor info from nonprofits a measure opposed by pro-democracy groups. But the swing vote on one of the most contentious votes Tuesday was another Democrat: Rep. Nasif Majeed (D-Mecklenburg). He was the sole Democrat to vote in favor of a bill that, among other things, would codify definitions of male and female in state law, allow parents to restrict their students library book access, and restrict changes to birth certificates for transgender people. I had some moral issues with that, Majeed told reporters after the vote. And I had to lean on my values. Democratic opposition, protesters Still, almost all other Democrats remained opposed to the bills Tuesday with a number of them who previously voted in favor of the measures flipping to no votes on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That included seven who voted against changing the oversight structure of charter schools, and eight who voted against the Duke Energy bill. Our planet is on fire, Rep. Pricey Harrison (D-Guilford) said, urging colleagues to hold utilities accountable for carbon emissions. And Rep. Laura Budd (D-Mecklenburg) decried the override vote on the bill dealing with gender and libraries saying it was overtly manipulative. The bill began as one designed to protect women and children from online exploitation before being rewritten in the Senate. The voting session, which had been anticipated for weeks, drew protesters to Jones Street. At times, some protesters loudly coughed during lawmakers remarks, being sharply rebuked by Hall. And after one vote, several left the gallery shouting that those who supported the bill should be ashamed. Protesters hold signs outside the North Carolina House chamber on July 29, 2025. (Photo: Galen Bacharier/NC Newsline) Vetoes on DEI bills overridden in Senate, but not yet in House The Senate cancelled Stein vetoes on bills banning diversity, equity and inclusion in higher education and public education. The House did not take override votes on those bills, nor did it try to override a veto banning DEI in state agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate Democrats denounced the bills, which they said would whitewash history and limit students exposure to challenging ideas. This bill assumes that white people are so weak that we need to be protected, said Sen. Michael Garrett (D-Cumberland), who is white. The bill assumes young people will be indoctrinated or somehow broken by divisive ideas, he said. Republicans nationally have decried DEI policies, arguing they interfere with meritocratic hiring and training, and have aimed to repeal them. NC Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) speaks to reporters July 29, 2025. (Photo: Lynn Bonner/NC Newsline) Republicans released a so-called mini-budget Tuesday that allows the DMV to hire more license examiners, supports an economic development project in Greensboro, and funds a new government efficiency office the state Auditor would run. It authorizes step salary increases for teachers, principals, and state employees who are eligible to receive them. It does not give raises greater than those in established salary schedules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state Senate approved the budget 45-2 with no debate. The House is expected to vote Wednesday. Republicans in the House and Senate have not been able to agree on a new budget for the fiscal year that started July 1. House and Senate Republicans were at odds over raises for teachers, future cuts to individual tax rates, and other issues. The House proposed a budget in May that included average teacher raises of 8.7% over two years and an increase in starting teacher pay from $41,000 a year to $48,000 this year and $50,000 next year. The Senate wanted an average raise of 3.3% for teachers over two years and a $3,000 bonus over two years. On the House side we want to give some significant raises, House Speaker Destin Hall (R-Caldwell) told reporters. We continue to talk to the Senate about that. No deal reached yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) told reporters the disagreement between Senate and House Republicans over tax cuts has been resolved, and the two sides decided there would be no changes to their earlier agreement on future tax cuts. The mini-budget does not address any shortfalls that result from federal budget cuts. Congressional Republicans passed a massive budget reconciliation bill signed into law by President Donald Trump that includes deep cuts to social programs and tax cuts for the wealthy. North Carolina will see a decrease in federal funding for its Medicaid program of billions of dollars over 10 years. The federal cuts jeopardize Medicaid expansion, under which more than 600,000 North Carolinians have health insurance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were looking at what the impact of the federal legislation will have on the Medicaid program and state-level funding, Berger said. Were not at the point now where the modifications have taken place or done the analysis that we need to do in order to make the kinds of changes or decisions that need to be made. The mini-budget covers what are considered to be crucial items that House and Senate negotiators could agree on, said Sen. Brent Jackson (R-Sampson), a budget committee chairman. Its not perfect. Its not everything we wanted. Its a compromise, he said. The hope is that legislators will have a complete budget shortly, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres whats the mini-budget includes: More than half of Americans disapprove of the way President Donald Trump is handling the Epstein Files after he suddenly backtracked on his promise to release previously undisclosed information in the governments investigation into the convicted sex offender. In a poll of 1,089 people by the Washington Post., 58 percent said they were not happy with the way Trump was responding to issues related to the Epstein Files. The president has riled up his supporters by asking them to move on from the Epstein Files after the FBI and Department of Justice released a memo shutting down speculation that Epstein had a client list of high-profile individuals. The agencies also reaffirmed that the disgraced financier died by suicide while in federal jail in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It came as a shock because Trump had previously said he would release the files, which many believe contain information about celebrities or wealthy individuals. A mention in the file does not mean there was wrongdoing. A Department of Justice official previously told the the Journal that hundreds of names are in the documents. Many independent and Democratic voters told the Post that they were skeptical of Trumps sudden reversal on releasing the files, believing he is covering up information to protect himself or others. A vast majority of Americans said in a Washington Post survey they believe the Epstein Files should be released (Getty Images) Trump is not forthcoming with information. Seems a lot more likely as if he has something to hide, a 59-year-old Massachusetts man who identifies as an independent told the newspaper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One 73-year-old Iowa woman, who identifies as a Democrat, said: It just feels like a cover up. If he has no involvement, why not release them? Speculation around Trumps relationship with Epstein has only escalated since the president encouraged supporters to move on from the situation earlier this month at a cabinet meeting. On July 18, the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump sent Epstein a bawdy birthday card, referencing secrets and a drawing of the outline of a naked womans body. Trump has denied ever doing so and sued the Journal and its publisher for libel for $10 billion. During a visit to Scotland Monday, Trump said he never had the privilege of visiting Epsteins island, and had previously turned down an invitation. He has dismissed the wider story about the files as a hoax. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The presidents continued refusal to release the files in full has led to even some of his strongest supporters, such as Charlie Kirk, Tucker Carlson, and Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, opposing him on the issue. Among the Posts survey respondents, 26 percent said they had no strong opinion on the situation, while only 16 percent said they approve of the presidents handling. MAGA Republicans were more likely to approve of Trumps position, with 43 percent siding with the president. Among non-MAGA Republicans, 38 percent said they approved. I trust the current administration and don't second guess them, an 81-year-old Florida woman, who identifies as a MAGA Republican, told the Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because his office isn't really talking about it. Let it go already. Epstein and his girl pal are the only guilty parties, a 61-year-old Maryland woman who identifies as MAGA said. The Posts findings largely reflects similar polling conducted by Quinnipiac University, which found that 63 percent of voters disapprove of the presidents handling overall, but 40 percent of Republicans approve. State Sen. Merv Riepe of Ralston and Fletcher Reel of Omaha discuss election results for Pennsylvania at the Nebraska GOP watch party in Bellevue on Nov. 5, 2024. (Marissa Lindemann/Nebraska News Service) LINCOLN While Nebraska remains a firmly red state in terms of its registered voters and elected leadership, that tilt hasnt translated into donations to the states top political parties. Since 2022, the Nebraska Democratic Party has outraised the Nebraska GOP each year, both in state-level donations logged on Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure (NADC) and in federal giving recorded by the Federal Elections Commission (FEC). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The turning point was the state GOPs 2022 convention, which saw a mass exodus of party leadership and shifted away from the previous establishment Republicans to Trump-era populists and some old-guard conservatives. Some viewed the party leadership change as an indictment of the way the party was run under a team loyal to former GOP governor-turned-U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, as many Republicans at the convention said he held too much control. Ricketts was a major funder for the party at the time one of the partys dominant funders. A six-figure donation from him was not an uncommon occurrence. After the 2022 convention, those donations stopped. U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., speaks to supporters during his campaign kickoff event Aug. 23, 2023, in Omaha. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner) In fact, none of Nebraskas current congressional delegation has donated directly to the state GOP since 2022, according to NADC and FEC filings. Democrats last held a federal office in 2017 with the late-U.S. Rep. Brad Ashford. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ricketts has remained an active political funder since then, instead donating directly to Republican candidates and organizations. Recent FEC filings show a donation from him of more than $750,000 to the National Republican Senatorial Committee, as just one example. Hes also frequently provided donations to other state Republican parties and local GOP groups outside of Nebraska, usually in $10,000 sums, according to his FEC filings. Jessica Flanagain, a spokesperson for the Ricketts campaign and the senators top political consultant, said he remains committed to helping the most conservative candidates who can win races win, regardless of how he donates. Senator Ricketts has been clear about his commitment to conservative candidates and causes, Flanagain said. He has championed protecting women and children by passing Initiative 434 (cementing Nebraskas 12-week abortion ban), and he has helped secure our elections by passing Voter ID. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Nebraska GOP last outraised the Nebraska Democratic Party in 2022, according to NADC filings, primarily because of multiple six-figure donations from Ricketts prior to the convention. That year, the party logged over $1 million in contributions, but only about $98,000 of that total came in after the July convention. This puts a spotlight on how Ricketts billionaire pocketbook has been propping up the Republican Party for so many years, said Nebraska Democratic Party Chair Jane Kleeb. Since the GOP leadership change, the Nebraska Democratic Party has raised more money, both locally and nationally. For example, during the high-stakes elections of 2024, the Democrats logged over $1 million in donations on NADC, which correlates to dollars intended to be spent on state and local races. The same year, the Nebraska GOP recorded $196,000 in contributions. On the FEC, which tracks donations intended to be used for federal races, financial records are tracked over a two-year period. For 2023-2024, Nebraska Democrats recorded over $6.6 million in contributions compared to $2.8 million for the Nebraska GOP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This year is still up in the air, though Democrats are currently in the lead with $322,000 in contributions filed in the FEC versus about $252,000 filed for the Nebraska GOP. State parties in federal races often act as pass-through entities, with campaigns using the money to access parties lower-cost postage rate for sending campaign mailers and for voter outreach and engagement. State-level giving to the parties remains more of a mystery, according to NADC filings. The Nebraska Democratic Party has recorded over $336,000 in donations so far this year, but the Nebraska GOP has yet to file. Nebraska GOP Chair Mary Jane Truemper said this is because the party hasnt directly contributed to any state campaigns this year, so it is only required to make one financial report for all of 2025. This funding disparity may not be obvious to most, as Republicans hold most elected offices and have gained ground in the Nebraska Legislature since 2022. Retiring U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., has also maintained his seat in the Omaha areas highly competitive 2nd Congressional District. What does it all mean? According to Dona-Gene Barton, associate professor of political science at University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the explanation lies in Nebraskas voter registrations, where Republicans remain dominant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The latest voter registration statistics on Nebraskas Secretary of State website show that there are over 623,000 registered Republicans in Nebraska, versus about 330,000 registered Democrats. That large of a gap indicates that money doesnt make much of a difference in most statewide races, Barton said. She noted the 2024 U.S. Senate race with independent candidate Dan Osborn challenging incumbent U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb. Though Osborn was well-funded and put Fischer in a weakened position, Barton said, Fischer still comfortably won because she had the advantage of a built-in voter base. Despite the amount of money that was sunk into that race, the Republican still wins in the end, Barton said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kleeb says Nebraska Democrats have gained ground since she became party chair in 2016, more than doubling the amount of Democrats in elected offices statewide. She also noted signs of progress in 2024, namely that Nebraska, which splits its electoral votes and awards them by congressional district like Maine, was the only battleground nationally that sent an electoral vote to Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris. Nebraska Democratic Party Chair Jane Kleeb. (Ariel Panowicz for Bold Nebraska) While funding may not make a massive difference, Kleeb said it helps candidates in local races. The party having more resources means those candidates can focus more of their energy on their specific regions. Truemper largely agreed with this mindset, though she still believes the Nebraska GOP is in good shape. She said political parties always have to work with what they have, but the amount of funding parties receive determines the scale of what they can accomplish. Its like a campaign Ive been a campaign manager, said Truemper, who managed Bacons campaign in 2018 and later his primary opponents in 2024. You have a plan, and then depending on how much money you have, you scale up or down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barton agreed that party funding in a state like Nebraska is most likely to have an influence on lower-level elections and ballot measures. Its particularly helpful when there are other factors at play that will motivate partisan and independent voters to go to the polls, like a promising presidential candidate, she said. Evidence of this could be seen in 2024, when four of Nebraskas six ballot initiatives favored more progressive outcomes, such as legalizing medical cannabis and approving mandatory paid sick leave. The outlier was a pair of competing abortion initiatives, which resulted in the more restrictive measure Initiative 434 prevailing. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Lately, Truemper said the Nebraska GOP has been more focused on regional, state and federal races, and have relied on county parties to support down-ballot races. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fallout from the 2022 convention meant the Nebraska GOP basically started from scratch, Truemper said. She said the party shifted to a more grassroots effort reminiscent of what it looked like under former Gov. Dave Heineman. Nebraska Republican Party Chair Mary Jane Truemper. (Courtesy of Nebraska Republican Party) During Heinemans administration, Truemper said the governor focused less on directly funding the Nebraska GOP and instead encouraged party participation at the county level. This brought it a broader base of financial support statewide, she said. When Ricketts took office, he funded much of the partys activities, Truemper said. During that time, she said, some of the Nebraska GOPs local bases of support dried up, though she declined to say that Ricketts was the main cause of that. Still, Truemper gave Democrats props for their skill at raising money and using their funds strategically. She acknowledged that the Nebraska GOP isnt raising as much as she would like, and said she is focusing on rebuilding the partys fundraising base. What comes next? Heading into the 2026 election season, Truemper said the Nebraska GOP intends to prioritize the 2nd Congressional District House race, as well as Ricketts re-election bid. Ricketts faces a returning challenger in Osborn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Truemper said the party plans to support Ricketts campaign by emphasizing the values and successes of GOP candidates in office and focusing on the importance of maintaining Republicans majority in the Senate. Financially, he doesnt need our support, she said with a laugh. Truemper said she also hopes to increase the GOPs majority in the Nebraska Legislature, which currently holds just enough votes to overcome opposing filibusters, if Republicans stick together on controversial bills. We are confident that the voters will see the improvement in the economy and the Republicans common sense approach to policy as a reason to vote Republican in 2026, Truemper said. Truemper didnt offer many details as to how she hopes to improve donations to the party. She only said she will focus on building relationships and seek support from the Republican National Convention. Nationally, Republicans are outpacing Democrats in fundraising. Recent reporting from The Hill shared that the Republican National Committee raised over $16 million during the month of June nearly double the $8.6 million the Democratic National Committee raised in the same period. The Republican National Committee has nearly $66 million more in cash on hand through the first half of 2025 compared to the Democratic National Committee, CBS News reported. Federal filings show the RNC with $80.7 million by late June and the DNC with $15.2 million. Kleeb said she is focusing on building out the Nebraska Democratic Partys state and county-level infrastructure to better support local candidates. She also said the party is increasing its investment in voter registration efforts. We take the ridicule that the Republicans want to throw at us, because we havent won the big-ticket items that people only look at, but weve been building, Kleeb said. And weve been building towards what we think are going to be big wins for our party in 26 and 28. As expected, the Nebraska Democratic Party also plans to prioritize the 2nd District House race in 2026. Kleeb said theyve learned from past elections that they need to invest in the region earlier. And the state party is working with local Democrats to recruit and support legislative candidates. Nebraska Democratic Party Executive Director Precious McKesson said the party is organizing community support efforts in the area, as well as other events meant to improve the partys visibility. McKesson said this stems from feedback they received that the party isnt as present outside of election seasons. Unlike most races, Barton said the House race in NE-02 is one where party funding could affect the outcome. Past elections in the district ended with razor-thin margins, and Republicans will no longer have the incumbency advantage with Bacon. The nonpartisan Center for Politics, the home of Larry Sabatos Crystal Ball, has shifted the Omaha-based House race to lean Democratic from toss-up. The Cook Political Report also shifted the race to lean Democrat. The fact that Don Bacon is not going to be seeking reelection is a very strong signal about the possibility of a Democrat winning that seat in the next election, Barton said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Railroads announce plans to create the first transcontinental railroad. (Courtesy of Norfolk Southern) OMAHA Omaha-based Union Pacific Railroads announcement Tuesday that it is acquiring the Norfolk Southern Railway a move that would create the first transcontinental, coast-to-coast rail system drew praise from Nebraskas public and business leaders. Omaha Mayor John Ewing Jr. lauded U.P.s decision to remain headquartered in Omaha and to keep its name, saying that both decisions give the city confidence in a long, proud, shared future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We would welcome any future employees from the combined railroads to settle in Omaha, Ewing, the mayor of the states largest city, said in a statement. A Union Pacific train transports coal through Spanish Fork Canyon in Utah County, Utah. on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps/Utah News Dispatch) Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen noted on social media that President Abraham Lincoln envisioned a railroad extending to the Pacific Ocean and chose the Omaha area as its starting point. U.P. has been building America ever since, and Nebraska has become a centrally-located national transportation hub along the way, he said. The State of Nebraska looks forward to supporting this tremendous partnership, and we are proud to host Americas First Transcontinental Railroad. Span 50,000 miles Railroad leaders said the proposed merger, projected to wrap up in early 2027, could transform the U.S. supply chain, unleash American manufacturing, preserve union jobs and drive economic growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jim Vena, the railroads chief executive, said in a statement that the new network would span more than 50,000 miles, serve 43 states from the East Coast to West Coast, link about 100 ports and reach nearly every corner of North America. It will enable us to stay at the forefront of technological advances that continue to fundamentally change how freight moves, he said, adding that the move spurs a new era of American innovation. Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena, left, and Norfolk Southern CEO Mark George sign an agreement between the two companies that would create a true transcontinental railroad. (Courtesy of Union Pacific) Vena and Norfolk Southerns Mark George appeared on CNBC to talk about the purchase deal that is said to be worth $85 billion. The result, the companies statement said, is the creation of a combined enterprise of over $250 billion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vena is to run the combined entity and is viewed as the architect. He said during the interview that the railroads are sure they will grow the business and workforce. Both leaders said they wouldnt shed unionized jobs as part of the plan. George said the two CEOs got together several months ago and talked about what they could do to create something bigger. If approved, the new Union Pacific Transcontinental Railroad would combine U.P.s strength in the western two-thirds of the country with Norfolks base in 22 eastern states. It became very very clear how big these revenue synergies are, George said. So were really excited about the future. Norfolk Southerns current headquarters in Atlanta is to become a key site focused on technology and innovation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For now, Vena said, it is business as usual, though he acknowledged the many questions that people have. In coming months, he said, the railroads would submit a formal merger application to the Surface Transportation Board. During that period, the two companies will continue to operate separately. George said two years of planning the integration should allow the merged railroad to hit the ground running. Scrutiny ahead Vena, on his companys website, said the proposed transcontinental network is expected to deliver faster service by eliminating car touches and interchange delays, opening new routes, expanding intermodal services and ensuring faster movement along key rail corridors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will take even more trucks off highways, decreasing congestion and reducing wear-and-tear on taxpayer-funded roads, he said. More than 40,000 U.P. and Norfolk Southern union employees move goods essential to daily lives, he said. Together they have 360 years of history. The deal likely faces regulatory scrutiny amid concerns, including from labor unions, over potential job eliminations and disruption in service. The Transport Workers Union of America, which represents workers at Norfolk Southern, said in a statement Tuesday that it strongly opposes the planned merger and urged federal regulators, lawmakers, shippers and unions to block the deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A supersized Union Pacific would be catastrophic for TWU rail workers, shippers, and the safety of millions of Americans who live and work near freight rail lines, said International President John Samuelsen. SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD), described as the largest rail labor organization in the U.S., said in a statement it is deeply engaged in evaluating the implications of the proposed merger. The union said the deal would encourage further consolidation across the rail system, triggering another wave of transcontinental mergers creating a duopoly. Both history and logic suggest this would drive higher rates, fewer service options and diminished competition. U.S. Sens. Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts, both Republicans, called the planned merger great for Nebraska and America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Employing over 5,000 Nebraskans, Union Pacific plays a crucial role in our states economy, Fischer said. I look forward to seeing the growth that will come to our state as a result of this crucial partnership. Said Ricketts: This has the potential to create jobs, increase wages, and streamline the supply chain. Heath Mello, CEO and president of the Greater Omaha Chamber. (Courtesy of Greater Omaha Chamber) Base remains Omaha Heath Mello, president and CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber, said local business leaders were proud that one of the most iconic names in American industry, continues to call Omaha, Nebraska home. Mello said the U.P. leadership and decision reinforces our regions central role in building a more connected and prosperous nation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Railroads were built in America to bring people, communities and commerce together and this new transcontinental network is the embodiment of this dream, Mello said. Vena told his companys workforce that the two railroads have roots in spurring the Industrial Revolution. He added, Im being straight with you when I say, There is no better combination of railroads to finalize President Abraham Lincolns original vision to create a transcontinental railroad. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith, R-Neb., listens to a presenter on Monday, June 19, 2023, in Lincoln, Neb. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) LINCOLN Nebraska Republican U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith is proposing additional tax relief aimed at increasing American production of minerals used in electronics, including microchips. The legislation aims to increase the depletion allowance for producers of rare earth materials and scandium from 14% to match the tax break enjoyed by producers of minerals deemed the highest-priority, which is 22%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The depletion allowance is a tax break that allows companies that mine the materials to recover a percentage of gross income. Smith, a senior member of the Houses tax-writing Weighs and Means Committee, represents Nebraskas largely rural 3rd Congressional District. He introduced the measure along with California Democratic Rep. Jimmy Panetta and Pennsylvania Republican Rep. Guy Reschenthaler. Embracing our nations full capacity to produce critical minerals at home is essential to growing our economy, Smith said in a statement. Rare earth materials and scandium are used in a wide variety of technologies, from smartphones to electric vehicles, wind turbines and even jet fighters. The 17 types of metals known as rare earth minerals are actually quite common and mined globally, but China has cornered a near-monopoly on refining them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nebraska has a rare-earth mine in the southeastern part of the state that is home to the second-largest deposit of rare earth elements in the U.S. The mining company, NioCorp, plans to ramp up pre-construction efforts. The other mine is in Montana. China, earlier this year, paused the export of several rare earth minerals and metals as a response to President Donald Trumps tariffs on Chinese goods. In April, Ukraine and the U.S. signed an agreement granting the U.S. a stake in its mineral reserves in exchange for tacit security guarantees against future Russian aggression. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX CEDAR CITY, Utah (ABC4) Residents at the Canyon View Mobile Home Park say theyre shocked by an intentional fire set early Sunday morning, and even more surprised by who police say is responsible. Investigators say 38-year-old Tyson Hopkins intentionally set his home on fire using gasoline and initially lied to police about his whereabouts. Surveillance video showed him filling gas cans at a nearby gas station, and according to the affidavit, he eventually admitted to igniting the home with a pallet and fuel. READ MORE: Iron County man facing arson charge after allegedly setting home on fire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neighbors told police he had been coming and going from the home that day, despite telling officers he had not been home in days. One of the first to respond was park manager Luke Pulsipher, who arrived just before firefighters It was probably going to light up another house, Pulsipher said. So I was trying to do the best I could to keep it from not doing that and keep everyone kind of safe here. Pulsipher says when Hopkins came back to the scene to watch the burning home, he was shocked at his reaction. So when he showed up here, he had a really big grin, he was very happy looking to see it burning for some reason, Pulsipher said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neighbor Fox Goodman says Hopkins lived with his mom and was generally quiet. He said his mother had passed away recently and that might have played a role. Hes a very quiet and nice guy, Goodman added. Its just a lot of grief that has caused some problems, and I feel sorry for him. I really do. This is a little more bizarre than I would think it should be, but Im not living in his head, and I just feel sorry. Hopkins is currently facing a first-degree felony Aggravated Arson charge and is being held in the Iron County Jail. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. A Oregon antisemite has been sentenced to five years in prison for phoning in phony bomb threats to Jewish hospitals on Long Island and livestreaming the chaos as it unfolded, federal prosecutors said. Domagoj Patkovic, 31, terrorized medical workers and patients during a months-long spree in 2021, calling in threats to Jewish health care facilities in Nassau County and across the Big Apple falsely claiming he had planted C-4 explosives throughout their buildings. Local police responded to the scene in several instances and conducted bomb sweeps. Oregon neo-Nazi Domagoj Patkovic was sentenced to five years in prison for calling in fake bomb threats to Jewish hospitals on Long Island. U.S. Department of Justice Patkovic claimed that he planted C-4 explosives in the Jewish health care facilities. Google Maps Northwell Healths Long Island Jewish Valley Stream hospital was partially evacuated and placed on lockdown that September after his bomb hoax made under the alias Abrahimavich, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patkovic, of Portland, claimed to have hidden explosives in maintenance closets in the hospitals and vowed to blow the building up all while live on Discord, a social media site popular for real-time voice chats, gaming communities, and increasingly, extremist content and fringe groups. When a 911 operator called the number back, Patkovic still in front of a live audience on Discord doubled down on the threats and confirmed his identity. And in at least one case, even flipped the camera to reveal his face. The neo-Nazi eventually confessed to participating in swatting and bomb threat calls with others, according to prosecutors while also identifying himself making the Sieg Heil Nazi salute over a mans unconscious body in a picture from an unrelated incident. Domagoj Patkovic admitted to recording himself giving a Nazi salute over an unconscious man. U.S. Department of Justice He was arrested last August and hit with a 23-count indictment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Patkovic] endangered patients and diverted precious law-enforcement resources to advance his hateful agenda against people of the Jewish faith, said prosecutor Joseph Nocella Jr. His actions fed a rising tide of antisemitism in America. Patkovic pleaded guilty in February to conspiracy to issue bomb threats and conveying false information about explosives. No explosives were ever found in any of the hospitals. He was sentenced on Wednesday to five years in federal prison. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel (left) joins California Attorney General Rob Bonta (right) and New York Attorney General Letitia James (center) for a news conference on a new lawsuit filed against the administration of President Donald Trump. The lawsuit alleges that SNAP information is being illegally used to support a database on Americans, which would bring about a surveillance state unlike the nation has seen in recent history. July 28, 2025 | Screenshot A lawsuit filed against the Trump administration by a coalition of attorneys general, including Michigans Dana Nessel, alleges that personal data mined from federal agencies could be used illegally to build a surveillance state unlike the nation has ever seen putting recipients for things like food assistance at risk if they are being targeted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The suit, filed Monday in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, alleges that the presidents U.S. Department of Agriculture is illegally demanding states turn over personal and sensitive information about millions of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, recipients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SNAP is a state-administered, federally-funded program that provides billions of dollars in food assistance to tens of millions of low-income families. Personal information is provided to state and federal administrators in order to receive assistance, with an understanding that the information will only be used for SNAP purposes. Moves by the Trump administration to force various departments to share that data with unrelated agencies, like ICE, sets up a system where the latter could potentially track deportation targets through information provided for SNAP. The USDA has also suggested that it would withhold state funding if states fail to comply with the information sharing mandate, effectively creating a gambit where states must choose residents privacy over vital assistance. Nessel, speaking to reporters in a news conference Monday that included California Attorney General Rob Bonta and New York Attorney General Letitia James, said the episode was yet another attempt by the Trump administration to illegally use personal and sensitive data under the guise of fighting abuse and fraud. My colleagues and I will not allow this administration to trample on constitutional protections or unlawfully exploit the SNAP program in this way, Nessel said. Michigan families deserve to have their personal information protected, and I will keep fighting until they receive exactly that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Since taking office, reports have indicated that Trump is amassing a huge database of personal information on Americans using that data for undisclosed purposes, much like immigration enforcement. The USDA demands regarding SNAP information appear to be another step toward that goal, the lawsuit posits. Bonta touched on the consequences of Trumps White House having that much personal data on Americans at its fingertips. Its a bait and switch of the worst kind, Bonta said. SNAP recipients provided this information to get help feeding their families, not to be entered into a government surveillance database or be used as targets in the presidents inhumane immigration agenda. Thats the reality here. This isnt about oversight and transparency. This is about establishing widespread surveillance under the guise of fighting fraud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bonta added that the attorneys general in the lawsuit are calling the issue what it is: An illegal data grab designed to scare people away from public assistance programs. James said the entire framework of Trumps immigration policies was cruelty on public display, but the new demand regarding SNAP was a new low. It is outrageous. It is unacceptable, James said. This is not for research or to improve a service that millions count on. They are basically trying to weaponize the SNAP program against immigrant communities in violation of the law, and we collectively will not stand for it. That is the administrations plans, and they have made it abundantly clear. States participating in the lawsuit include Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. IDF sources confirmed to the Post that senior IDF officials were kept out of the meetings and were not consulted regarding any option, or plan of annexation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed partial annexation of the Gaza Strip as a potential course of action if hostage deal talks fail, during a Monday small cabinet meeting an Israeli source confirmed to The Jerusalem Post on Tuesday. It was raised as a serious matter and was debated, the source said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This comes after a source told the Post on Monday that Israel will have no choice but to expand its military operation in some capacity if hostage talks stall. In addition, IDF sources confirmed to the Post that senior military officials were kept out of the meetings and were not consulted. The IDF Spokespersons Office added that it would not comment on internal cabinet discussions. An Israeli tank enters Israel from Gaza, July 28, 2025 (credit: REUTERS/AMIR COHEN) The Post contacted multiple sources within the Justice Ministry with authority related to the issue, but has not received a response. According to an Israeli source, the prime minister is currently waiting for two things: the possibility that Hamas may still show flexibility in the hostage negotiations and the upcoming meetings in Washington where Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi are expected to hold talks with senior Trump administration officials about the war in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The official added that he expects the security cabinet to convene this week to further discuss the situation. PMO acknowledges 'difficult' humanitarian situation in Gaza The Prime Ministers Office acknowledged the difficult humanitarian situation in Gaza, noting that it would continue to work with humanitarian groups to facilitate aid distribution in a Monday statement. We already allow significant amounts of humanitarian aid into Gaza every single day, including food, water, and medicine, the statement read. Israeli left-wing human rights organization BTselem accused the Israeli government of executing a coordinated action to intentionally destroy Palestinian society in the Gaza Strip, characterizing it as a developing genocidal regime, in a new report on Monday. Accusations against Milwidsky include rape and witness tampering, which he has denied. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus appointee, MK Hanoch Milwidsky (Likud), was appointed as the Knessets Finance Committee chairman despite allegations of rape against him, in the final vote on Tuesday. Before his appointment, two heated Knesset committee meetings were held, which both concluded in majority votes favoring Milwidsky. The first vote tallied 9-6, the second 10-7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both meetings involved loud clashes between coalition and opposition MKs, with the latter strongly condemning Milwidskys appointment until the conclusion of the investigation that was opened against him on Friday. Accusations against Milwidsky include rape and witness tampering, which he has denied. Holding off on the appointment The Likud Party had claimed that the opening of the investigation against Milwidsky was largely due to the timing of Netanyahus appointment to the role, which came two days prior. Opposition lawmakers convene the Knessets Committee on the Status of Women and Gender Equality, in Jerusalem, July 29, 2025 (credit: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM/THE JERUSALEM POST) During the first committee meeting, MK Tally Gotliv (Likud) also reiterated a previous Likud statement by claiming it was the attorney-general who was behind the opening of the investigation. She repeatedly declared, Everyone vote for Milwidsky! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, opposition MKs remained adamant that there would have been no problem to postpone Milwidskys appointment for the role until the investigation was closed. The Knessets recent recess that began on Sunday was raised as another reason why there was no need to rush Milwidskys appointment. Given the very serious suspicions against the candidate, the appropriate action would have been not to bring this issue to discussion at all especially not during the recess, MK Vladimir Beliak (Yesh Atid) said in the second meeting. We didnt need to do this while the Knesset is on recess, and when the hostage families are here, Merav Ben Ari (Yesh Atid) expressed in the first meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first committee meeting began with statements from hostage family members, who slammed the government for spending time arguing over such appointments when hostages still remain captive by Hamas in Gaza. Gil Dickmann, cousin of slain hostage Carmel Gat, called on MKs to look into the eyes of the hostages and tell them that Knesset meetings are currently focused on giving a job to a man accused of rape, while they remain captive. Milwidsky was not present for any of the meetings or votes. Instead, he was already simultaneously conducting a Finance Committee session, which any MK of the committee can choose to chair as a temporary replacement, regardless of appointment. MK Hamad Amar (Yisrael Beytenu) criticized Milwidsky for not being present for any of the discussions that took place, with additional MKs echoing the same sentiment and calling the vote an embarrassing, uncomfortable situation. Milwidsky responds to his appointment Following his appointment, Milwidsky responded that he was under instructions not to comment on the investigation but had only one thing to say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between what is being published in the media, what people are reading aloud, and what actually happened there is a world of difference, Milwidsky said. I am convinced that the decent people among you, once the full details are made public, will understand the situation a bit better, he said. Head of the opposition MK Yair Lapid called Milwidskys appointment a red line. The coalitions decision to appoint a man suspected of rape as chairperson of the Finance Committee is a red line even by their distorted standards, he said. It normalizes harm against women and causes real damage to them. This is a misogynistic coalition that is dismantling Israeli society, Lapid said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Movement for Quality Government in Israel also stated that Milwidskys appointment could harm Israel as a whole and called it an ethical nadir that could undermine trust in the entire parliamentary institution. Ahead of the two votes, opposition party heads Ben Ari, Pnina Tameno-Shete (Blue and White), and Efrat Rayten (The Democrats) held an additional meeting to call for the postponement of the appointment. Suspects of rape and sexual offenses should not be in the Israeli Knesset and certainly not be promoted, Tameno-Shete expressed. Ben Ari slammed the silence of coalition members and said that she had been in touch with many of them in the past days. She explained that some would have wanted to speak against Milwidskys appointment emphasizing the significance of their silence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opposition MKs also said that if the vote had been anonymous, it would have gone differently. Milwidskys appointment is currently temporary because it would be returned to United Torah Judaism MK Moshe Gafni in the event that Gafni rejoins the coalition after recently leaving. Gafni left the coalition because of the fallout in the negotiations regarding the haredi bill that is expected to exempt a large number of ultra-Orthodox men from IDF service. Jerusalem Post Staff contributed to this report. The fact that the ministries were given to just Levin and Katz indicated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intends to safeguard them for the eventual possibility of Shass return. The government voted on Tuesday to temporarily appoint Justice Minister Yariv Levin as interior minister, labor minister, and religious affairs minister. Concurrently, he temporarily appointed Tourism Minister Haim Katz, who is also interim housing minister, as temporary welfare minister and health minister. These positions were previously held by members of the haredi (ultra-Orthodox) Shas party, which left the government on July 17 after negotiations over a bill proposal intended to exempt over half the eligible haredi men from IDF service fell through. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the fact that the ministries were given to only Levin and Katz indicates that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intends to safeguard them for the possibility of Shass eventual return. Similarly, when Otzma Yehudit resigned from the government in January in opposition to the hostage deal struck with Hamas, the prime minister gave its three ministries to Haim Katz for safekeeping. The ministries were returned to Otzma Yehudit when it rejoined the government in March, after Israel resumed its military offensive in Gaza. In a statement following the approval, Levin said, I am accepting these portfolios as a temporary deposit, with the belief that the Shas movement will soon return to the government. We have many tasks to complete in the coming year, and it is essential that we are able to do so with a broad and stable coalition. Katz has served as tourism minister since the government began its term in late 2022. He became housing minister on July 15, following the resignation of UTJ chairman MK Yizhak Goldknopf from the government, for the same reasons as Shas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir at a Knesset debate, July 14, 2025; illustrative. (credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90) United Right ministers Gideon Saar and Zeev Elkin opposed Tuesdays appointments. Saars spokesperson wrote in a statement, The minister respects and is on friendly terms with ministers Levin and Katz. However, it is not appropriate to burden ministers heading executive offices with multiple portfolios this would reduce their ability to effectively address the affairs of the additional ministries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another vacant ministry is the Jerusalem and Tradition Ministry, due to the resignation of UTJ MK Meir Porush. Netanyahu is not allowed to hold any ministerial positions other than PM Technically, when ministers resign, the position becomes the prime ministers until a new minister is appointed. According to Israeli legal precedent, ministers who were criminally indicted cannot serve as ministers, and thus Netanyahu is legally barred from holding any ministerial positions other than that of the prime minister. Until the appointments of Levin and Katz on Tuesday, the prime ministers holding of the ministries was in violation of the law, as was his continued holding of the Jerusalem and Tradition Ministry. All of the appointments were designated temporary, and therefore did not require approval in the Knesset. This was important, since the governing coalition currently does not have a majority in the Knesset (60 MKs) and the appointments might not have passed. Temporary ministers can serve in the position for a maximum of three months. French authorities opened an investigation following suspicions of a plot to assassinate French lawyer Olivier Pardo, who represents Netanyahu at the ICC. French authorities opened an investigation following suspicions of a plot to assassinate French lawyer Olivier Pardo, who represents Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the International Criminal Court, Le Parisien reported on Monday. The investigation started after Pardo told the authorities about a meeting he had with 47-year-old Ruddy Terranova, a former convict who had spent 14 years in prison for criminal activities and later adopted radical Islam, who told him about the plot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Terranova, Hezbollah operatives approached him while he was in Senegal and asked him to take out Pardo when he turned back to France. He rejected the proposition and arranged the meeting to warn the lawyer about the plot. The report also highlighted that Terranova warned Pardo that the reason behind the Hezbollah assassination plot was the fact that he was representing Netanyahu at the ICC, and that there was a real possibility that someone else would try to assassinate him. After the meeting, which lasted around an hour and a half, Pardo reported the incident to the French Police, who opened an investigation and estimated that the plot was most likely real. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Tel Aviv court for criminal trial, June 3, 2025. (credit: CHAIM GOLDBEG/FLASH90) Hezbollah plans to assassinate Netanyahu's lawyer The report cites three reasons for the veracity of the plot: Terranovas complex background, the fact that he didnt threaten or demand any compensation for the information, and the similarity it would have with other cases centered around the Lebanese terrorist organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Terranova was also arrested for questioning, while an official legal investigation was opened under the supervision of an investigating judge and the Anti-Terrorism Unit, with the aim of identifying possible masterminds if they exist. Pardo, who has had high-level clients before, is facing an assassination plot for the first time. I understand that it is part of the job, he told the French paper. The Israeli ambassador was summoned and requested to tell the Israeli government to change its current course in Gaza. The Netherlands announced on Monday night that National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich would be banned from entering the country. "The cabinet has therefore decided to declare Israeli ministers Smotrich and Ben-Gvir persona non grata and is committed to registering them as undesirable aliens in the Schengen registration system," Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is because they have repeatedly incited settler violence against the Palestinian population, persistently advocated the expansion of illegal settlements, and called for ethnic cleansing in the Gaza Strip." Veldkamp added that Israels ambassador to the Netherlands would be summoned and requested to call on the Netanyahu government to change courseThe current situation is intolerable and indefensible. Furthermore, it has been agreed to continue to increase pressure on Hamas to achieve a ceasefire." Ben-Gvir responded to the Netherlands' decision on Tuesday morning, where he said he would continue to act for Israel. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof speaks to the media at a European Union leaders summit in Brussels, Belgium October 17, 2024. (credit: JOHANNA GERON/REUTERS) "Even if I'm banned from entering all of Europe, I will continue to fight for our country and demand that we dismantle Hamas and support our fighters. The violent, the murderers, and the rapists are our enemies, but in Europe, as is often the case, the victim is blamed." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In a place where terrorism is tolerated and terrorists are welcomed, a Jewish minister from Israel is unwelcome, terrorists are free, and Jews are boycotted," Ben-Gvir wrote. Smotrich says Netherlands, European states 'fail to understand,' comments on rising antisemitism Smotrich wrote in a post to X/Twitter that "every Jew in the world should be able to live in the State of Israel safely for generations to come." "What those in the Netherlands and other European countries fail to understand is that, more than my desire to enter the Netherlands, what matters most to me is that my children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildrenand every Jew in the worldshould be able to live in the State of Israel safely for generations to come." The finance minister commented on rising antisemitism in Europe, writing, "In the Netherlands and in Europe more broadly, Jews did not live in safety at the beginning of the last century. And if we judge by European hypocrisy, the surrender of its leaders to the lies of radical Islam that is taking over and the rising antisemitism, Jews will not be able to live there safely in the future either." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I dedicate my life to the future and security of Israel, and I will continue to do so, according to my best judgment, even if it means standing firm against the entire world. And as the late prime minister Menachem Begin said, if someone in the world turns up their nose, let them have a crooked nose." Tensions between Herzog, Dutch PM On Monday, tensions erupted between Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Dutch Prime Minister , following a sharply worded statement from the Netherlands suggesting punitive European measures against Israel due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In a social media post, Schoof said he had convened an emergency meeting with his deputy prime ministers, foreign minister, and defense minister to address what he described as the catastrophic situation in Gaza. Schoof emphasized the Netherlands support for immediate and unrestricted humanitarian aid to the enclave and warned that if the European Union finds Israel in violation of humanitarian agreements, The Hague would support suspending Israels participation in the EUs Horizon Europe research and innovation program. Schoof went further, stating that if the EU takes action, the Netherlands would advocate additional measurespotentially in the trade sphereand may also take national steps to increase the pressure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Herzog tweeted in response, writing, Sorry, Prime Minister, with all due respectthis tweet does not reflect the spirit or the details of our phone call." Nor does it reflect my crystal-clear position: it will be a huge mistake if the EU takes such steps, especially in light of Israels ongoing and upgraded humanitarian efforts. Amichai Stein contributed to this report. This is a developing story. The Netherlands has declared Israel's finance and national security ministers persona non grata for inciting violence and urging ethnic cleansing in Gaza. In June, the Netherlands backed a failed Swedish proposal to impose EU sanctions on Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. "They repeatedly incited settler violence against Palestinians, promoted illegal settlement expansion, and called for ethnic cleansing in Gaza," Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp told parliament in a letter released late Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smotrich responded on X, saying European leaders had succumbed to "the lies of radical Islam that is taking over" and "rising antisemitism". Ben-Gvir said he would continue to act for Israel, even if he was banned from entering "all of Europe". "In a place where terrorism is tolerated and terrorists are welcomed, a Jewish minister from Israel is unwanted, terrorists are free, and Jews are boycotted," he wrote on X. Veldkamp said the Netherlands wanted to "relieve the suffering of the population in Gaza" and was exploring further ways to contribute to humanitarian aid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Airdrops of food are relatively expensive and risky," he said. "This is why the Netherlands is also taking steps to further support land-based aid delivery." Aid drops resumed in Gaza on Sunday as Israel announced temporary humanitarian pauses in parts of the besieged territory. Around 2.4 million Palestinians in Gaza are facing what UN aid agencies have warned is a deadly wave of starvation and malnutrition. The UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification Initiative (IPC) said on Tuesday that famine is unfolding across much of Gaza, with thresholds breached and over 20,000 children treated for acute malnutrition since April. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Veldkamp said the Netherlands would push to suspend the trade element of the EU-Israel Association Agreement if Israel fails to meet its humanitarian obligations. "The summons will also be used to remind Israel to comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law," he said. After speaking by phone with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said the government's position was "crystal clear". "The people of Gaza must be given immediate, unfettered, safe access to humanitarian aid," he said. Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar said he had held a formal reprimand with the Dutch ambassador Marriet Schuurman in Jerusalem on Tuesday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he told her that the Dutch government's policy towards Israel "fuels antisemitism in the Netherlands". "I said that Israel will not surrender to jihadist forces and, on this occasion, wished the Netherlands success in its future confrontation with radical Islamist elements that have established themselves in its territory," he said on X. "The Netherlands' intention to bring about a change in Israeli policy by applying pressure on it -- is rejected outright and doomed to fail." The war in Gaza was sparked by Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. Israel's retaliatory campaign has killed 59,921 Palestinians, also mostly civilians, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. srg/cw LAS VEGAS (KLAS) At a campaign event announcing the launch of his bid for governor, Nevada Democratic Attorney General Aaron Ford offered his condolences to the family of a Las Vegas man killed by a police officer. The family of Brandon Durham has called on Ford, who is in his second term as attorney general, to investigate the death. Las Vegas officer wont be indicted for killing of 911 caller: sources Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Durham was killed inside his home last November by Las Vegas Metro Police officer Alexander Bookman after Durham called 911 to report an intruder. A Clark County grand jury last week declined to indict the officer on a second-degree murder charge. Ford launched his bid for governor at the East Las Vegas Community Center on Monday. In a video posted on YouTube, he said, Ive worked with law enforcement to protect our communities. Durhams family issued a statement last Thursday on the grand jurys decision against indicting the officer, calling on Ford to immediately assign a special prosecutor and advance criminal charges where the Clark County District Attorney has refused. After Fords office didnt respond to past inquiries from 8 News Now, reporter Joshua Peguero asked him about the familys request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My condolences obviously go out to the Durham family. We received inquiries, as you might imagine. Were not in a position to be able to comment on those, but my condolences certainly go out to the family, Ford said. Durhams partner echoed something similar last Thursday in an interview with 8 News Now. The way were going to get through this is by using every avenue of the criminal justice system thats available to us, Rachael Gore, Durhams former partner said. The Las Vegas police union held a press conference last Friday, applauding the grand jurys decision not to indict the officer, who responded to what was described as a tense domestic violence situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police union cites homeowners drug use in grand jurys decision not to indict officer in deadly shooting The answer to the public is that when you call the police and they tell you to drop the gun, drop the knife. Then do it, David Roger, an attorney with the Las Vegas Police Protective Association, said. Durhams family first announced back in February that they wanted the attorney generals office to get involved in this case. The family has also filed a civil lawsuit against the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. While metro officer Alexander Bookman was not indicted, he remains the subject of an internal investigation and is on paid leave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Eight-year-old Hayden Buckland loves Legos and spending time with his family. With school right around the corner, hes looking forward to seeing his friends again. At just six years old, Hayden was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a type of cancer that affects your bones and tissue. His mom, Gaila Buckland, said that going back to school at the beginning wasnt easy for Hayden. Hayden got diagnosed when he was in kindergarten, so the last he knew of school was kindergarten which is all their learning skills like comprehension and reading or understanding, Gaila Buckland said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Buckland said her son missed all of first grade and underwent homebound schooling with a teacher twice a week for two hours. Another big challenge was navigating doctor appointments while Hayden was at school. At times, he would have to skip class to attend important doctor visits. Two hours wasnt enough to catch him up to what a full day of school would teach him and going back now to second grade was definitely challenging for him and for us because we didnt know exactly where he would be at, how far behind he would be scholarly and we had to push him a little bit more than usual, Gaila Buckland added. She said, thankfully, they didnt have to go through this transition alone. Kimberly Kindig is the CEO of Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada, a nonprofit that provides financial aid, support therapy, and quality of life programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We know that when a kiddo has been out of the classroom, theres all of these big emotions and potential fears of returning to their classmates, Kingdig explained. Will I be accepted? Do I look differently? Am I emotionally prepared for the transition? Its super fun, voiced Kindig. Theres equine therapy, theres arts and crafts and jiu jitsu and its how do we get these kiddos to navigate the challenges that come with childhood cancer. I think more times than not, not only the diagnosed child but the siblings, they feel really alone. They feel that they dont really understand where theyre at. Our main goal is to normalize that and by surrounding them with other families and kids who really understand that, it really does help. Gaila Buckland said Hayden is like one of his favorite characters Wolverine overcoming any obstacle and showing strength. Hayden will be entering third grade for the 2025-2026 school year. Going back to normal is difficult in general when you are going through cancer treatment with your child, but there is a rainbow at the end of that tunnel. she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the other programs offered by the Candlelighters foundation includes summer camp, Holiday Adopt-A-Family, and the Thanksgiving Meal program. For more information, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. A bill introduced Tuesday, exactly six-months after the fatal midair collision over the Potomac River, aims to fix aviation safety weaknesses exposed by the tragedy. The legislation, sponsored by Sen. Ted Cruz, would require aircraft operators to install key anti-collision technology on all flights and require the Army to keep it turned on in almost every case. Sixty-seven people died on January 29 when an Army Black Hawk helicopter on a training mission collided with an American Airlines regional jet coming in for a landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Rotor Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform Act, or ROTOR Act, would require aircraft to send and receive Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast signals. Planes equipped with so-called ADS-B out send radio signals with GPS location, altitude, ground speed and other data once a second, independent of air traffic control. Most aircraft are required to transmit ADS-B information, but this new bill would require them to also have ADS-B in, which displays information in the cockpit about surrounding aircraft. The helicopter that hit the passenger plane in January was not broadcasting ADS-B data due to a rule that allowed the Army to fly with the system turned off. Cruz, who heads the Senate committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, called ADS-B critical for aviation safety. Hes been sharply critical of Army practices, stating the military was given too much leeway by the FAA to operate without the equipment. It gives pilots and air traffic control a clear view of whats happening in the skies, he said. The new bill would require the FAA to grant permission for military flights without ADS-B only for sensitive government missions like presidential transport when the airspace is already shut down to other traffic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cruz, along with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, National Transportation Safety Board Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford and family members of the victims of the crash backed the new bill at a news conference of Capitol Hill. A myriad of midair collisions prompted the NTSB to recommend the FAA require ADS-B In for flying more than 20 years ago, according to Homendy. The NTSB can recommend changes but does not have the authority to implement them. ADS-B In, and I cant stress this enough, is a game changer - a game changer when it comes to safety, Homendy said. On Wednesday, the NTSB will begin three days of investigative hearings regarding the collision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement American Airlines, whose regional jet was involved in the crash, applauded the bill in a statement. We continue to mourn the lives lost in the tragic accident involving Flight 5342 and we are grateful for Senator Cruz, Secretary Duffy, Members of Congress and everyone involved for their work to make aviation and our national airspace even safer. American Airlines stands in strong support of these efforts, the airline said. Under the bill, the FAA will also review helicopter routes near congested airports across the country and the Army inspector general would be required to audit their aviation safety practices. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Snapped in the summer of 2013, this seemingly innocuous headshot of Ghislaine Maxwell was taken in France during what would be the final visit with her mother, Elisabeth, who died that August at age 92. But the image, supplied exclusively to the National Enquirer by Ghislaines family, has taken on new significance as her family doubles down on a key argument: Ghislaine could have vanished but chose not to. Ghislaine, a French citizen by birth, had every legal right to remain in France, which doesnt extradite its nationals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was not under investigation at the time, and her brother, Ian Maxwell, emphasizes exclusively to the National Enquirer: Had she feared arrest or harbored guilt, she could have stayed behind without consequence. Instead, she lived in America and made no attempt to leave even after Jeffrey Epsteins death. As Enquirer readers know, the convicted pedophile was found unresponsive in his cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York City on August 10, 2019, while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges involving underage girls. Ghislaine is currently serving a 20-year sentence after she was convicted in 2022 on five criminal counts including sex trafficking for aiding Epstein in his abuse of underage girls. Ian Maxwells full interview with the National Enquirer will be on newsstands Wednesday, July 30. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Weeks after a drought emergency was declared in Lincoln County, Newport residents have been directed to conserve water. The City of Newport issued a stage one water curtailment notice on Monday. Stage one advises residents to reduce their water usage as the area faces below-average precipitation and above-average temperatures, while stage two would require a reduction in water usage. Deschutes County selects interim sheriff after report revealed incumbents misconduct Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are four stages, but officials reported that the city has never issued a curtailment notice beyond stage two. These are not restrictions at this time, but rather a request to our community to begin implementing conservation methods if they arent already, Newport Assistant Public Works Director and Water Treatment Plant Supervisor Steve Stewart said in a release. We will continue to monitor conditions and water levels to assist our community throughout this drought. Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek issued Executive Order 2513 in mid-June, thus declaring a countywide drought emergency. Lincoln County has faced four droughts in the past seven years. According to the declaration, the severe drought conditions could lead to natural and economic disaster for the areas agricultural, livestock, natural resources, recreation and tourism sectors. The governors office also said the conditions could ramp up early onset fire risks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement July and August are often Oregons driest months, KOIN 6 meteorologists have reported. Portions of the region have already seen wildfires so far this summer. The Cram Fire, which started burning outside of Madras earlier this month, nearly reached megafire status before it was fully contained. Summer heat returns, August starts cooler around Portland The City of Newport has advised residents to use conservation methods proposed by the Mid-Coast Water Conservation Consortium. This includes minimizing shower time, reducing the amount of water used for lawns and plants, and waiting to run dishwashers and washing machines until they are full. Gov. Kotek has also declared a drought emergency in Baker County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. PROVIDENCE After months of deliberating, Brown University Health has decided to keep Newport Hospitals Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center open during its next fiscal year, the health system announced Tuesday, July 29. Brown Health, the states largest health system, was considering shuttering it as a cost-saving measure, but news of it prompted community backlash and galvanized supporters, city councilors and some lawmakers to oppose it. The announcement, however, is not final. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the center remains in the FY26 budget and is not currently scheduled to close, its long-term future will be evaluated over the next year, a memo from Brown Health President and CEO John Fernandez released Tuesday, July 29, said. Brown Health will form a task force to review labor and delivery services at Newport Hospital, the memo added. This task force will include input from community leaders, donors, nurses, physicians, and others. It is important to note that recruiting OB/GYNs remains a major challenge, and sustaining a strong program depends on both clinical expertise and adequate patient volume, the memo said. Zach Mueller feeds his infant son, River, while listening to speakers during a special Newport City Council meeting on July 15 about the proposed closure of Newport Hospital's birthing center. Gateway Healthcare and Samuels Sinclair Dental Center also off the chopping block Two other facilities that Brown Health was considering closing have also been taken off the chopping block. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The health system had on its cost-cutting list Gateway Healthcare, the states largest nonprofit behavioral care provider; and the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center, the states primary provider of dental care for children and people with special needs. Gateway Healthcare in Pawtucket. Both facilities have long histories and are stalwart providers of behavioral and dental care in Rhode Island. Advocates warned that closing Gateway Healthcare and the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center would have been catastrophic for behavioral care in Rhode Island and an unspeakable loss for the states special-needs community. The Samuels Sinclair Dental Center will assess and improve operations, the memo stated, with the goal of increasing philanthropic giving to offset losses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similarly, Gateway Healthcare will pursue greater operational efficiencies. Over the last year, Gateway Healthcare has made changes to operations and to prevent financial losses, which, along with investments from the state, have helped stabilize it," according to the memo. Balancing act Other programs, such as state contracts for prisons and clinics, will continue for the coming year, and a building project to renovate Rhode Island Hospital will move forward after revisions. But Brown Health Home Medical, which provides medical equipment and supply services, will close Sept. 5. Changes are also coming to inpatient adult psychiatry at Rhode Island Hospital. The hospital lost nearly $25 million in fiscal 2024 in these services, according to the memo. In response, Brown Health will reduce reliance on contract labor which accounts for more than 50% of staffing reallocate staff and invest in training and safety. However, these changes will not come until the strike at Butler Hospital is resolved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fernandezs memo said that Brown Health aims to operate at a 3% margin, but that has not been the case for the last decade. (The exact figure for that margin remains unclear.) Our revenues have not kept pace with rising costs for vital resources like pharmaceuticals, supplies, equipment and labor costs, which has led to a need to invest $1.2 billion to bring our facilities and technology up to the high standards our patients expect, the memo says. In the last two years, Brown Health also lost nearly $138 million from Medicaid under-reimbursements, and while the health system secured $23 million from state funds, it fell short of the $270 million it and other hospitals in the state were seeking, according to the memo. Health systems in the state face multiple challenges, among them rising costs, uncertain state funding and declining federal support, which may intensify with the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the memo said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If this underfunding is not addressed within the next one to two years, we will be forced to further reduce patient services, an outcome which is unacceptable to us at Brown Health and is a step we are determined to avoid, Fernandez wrote. State leaders react to Brown Health news Attorney General Peter Neronha thanked Brown Health for keeping Newport Hospitals birthing center open. My Office is keenly aware of the financial pressures experienced by Brown Health and other hospitals and providers; pressures that arise from our failure to fix the financial fundamentals of our broken health care system, Neronha said in a statement. Providers across Rhode Island have long sounded the alarm about low Medicaid reimbursement rates and other financial stressors, and up until very recently, those calls for change went unanswered. Until we truly prioritize investment in our health care system, we can and should expect more difficult decisions about closures, decisions which may not turn out as favorably as this one, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Dan McKee, who said his administration had been advocating for the birthing center, also welcomed the news. This is excellent news for a concerned community who, like my administration, prioritizes issues of womens health. When it comes to childbirth, the time, access, and expertise the Birthing Center provides to Newport County are essential, McKee said in a statement. This story will be updated as new information becomes available. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Newport Hospital birthing center, other facilities to remain open NEWPORT, R.I. (WPRI) Brown Health officials will keep the birthing center open at Newport Hospital, Target 12 has learned, but other cuts are being made across the health system as executives continue to struggle with tight operating margins. The announcement about the birthing center was shared by two people briefed on the decision and subsequently confirmed by a Brown Health spokesperson. It came hours before a 6 p.m. rally to save the birthing center scheduled by an advocacy group called Moms Over Margin, with House Speaker Joe Shekarchi and likely gubernatorial candidate Helena Foulkes among those scheduled to speak. In a memo to employees on Tuesday afternoon, Brown Health President and CEO John Fernandez couched the decision as temporary for now. He said a task force will be created to examine all aspects of labor and delivery services at Newport Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We understand the concern surrounding the future of the Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center, he wrote. While the center remains in the [fiscal year 2026] budget and is not currently scheduled to close, its long-term future will be evaluated over the next year. Newport City Councilor Xay Khamsyvoravong, who has led the opposition to the potential closure of the birthing center, hailed the decision. The council passed a resolution earlier this month urging Brown Health to save the facility, which saw nearly 500 births last year. We put this issue on the radar just two weeks ago and the communitys response was outstanding, he said in a statement. Brown Healths planned announcement reflects that they are listening. Brown Health is Rhode Islands largest employer and biggest health system, owner of flagship Rhode Island Hospital as well as Newport, Bradley and Miriam hospitals. Its leaders have been warning for months that they were considering a variety of cuts due to what they view as inadequate reimbursement rates for health providers in Rhode Island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rhode Island lawmakers increased Medicaid reimbursement rates by tens of millions of dollars in the new state budget that took effect on July 1, but the increase was smaller than the amount that had been requested by the Hospital Association of Rhode Island. In a statement, Gov. Dan McKee said his administration had been advocating behind the scenes for some time to keep the birthing center open, and that Fernandez had called him Tuesday to inform him about the decision. This is excellent news for a concerned community who, like my administration, prioritizes issues of womens health, McKee said. When it comes to childbirth, the time, access, and expertise the Birthing Center provides to Newport County are essential. Attorney General Peter Neronha praised Brown Healths decision to keep the birthing center open, but also repeated his oft-stated warnings that Rhode Island leaders need to substantially increase funding for health care across the board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until we truly prioritize investment in our health care system, we can and should expect more difficult decisions about closures, decisions which may not turn out as favorably as this one, Neronha said in a statement. In the memo, Fernandez said Brown Health has not achieved its goal of a modest 3% operating profit for the past decade, and warned that the financial situation has left the health system with a $1.2 billion backlog of needed capital investments to upgrade facilities and IT. Expenses have been rising much faster than revenue, he said. Psychiatric care is a target for savings Apart from the birthing center decision, Fernandez announced a series of other changes Brown Health will be making to cut costs. Brown Health Home Medical, which sells durable medical equipment, will close on Sept. 5 due to issues of financial sustainability, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The inpatient adult psychiatry program at Rhode Island Hospital will be overhauled once the ongoing strike at Butler Hospital, the psychiatric facility owned by the Care New England health system, is resolved. Fernandez said the program lost almost $25 million last year and needs to reduce its reliance on contract labor as well as reassign some staff members. One arm of Brown Health that had been seen as in jeopardy Gateway Healthcare, a major provider of mental health services will remain open thanks to increased state funding that have eased its financial problems, Fernandez said, though he added that executives will pursue greater operational efficiencies there. Also continuing to exist, but under orders to operate more efficiently, will be the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center and various state programs such as prison care and clinics. A major renovation project at Rhode Island Hospital will also be scaled back to its most essential components, Fernandez said, relying heavily on charitable donations. The building project is expected to last for a decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We can no longer delay critical improvements; these upgrades are vital to ensure the hospital can continue to meet the complex needs of patients and the community for years to come, he wrote. Ted Nesi (tnesi@wpri.com) is a Target 12 investigative reporter and 12 News politics/business editor. He co-hosts Newsmakers and writes Nesis Notes on Saturdays. Connect with him on Twitter, Bluesky and Facebook. Sophia Szabo contributed to this report. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Prefer your Newsmakers on the go? Subscribe to our podcast! Apple | Spotify Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. The head of the NHS attacked the British Medical Association (BMA) for demanding extortionate pay for striking doctors to return to work in emergencies. Sir Jim Mackey, the NHS chief executive, criticised the doctors union in a message to NHS hospital trust leaders. Junior now resident doctors have entered the last of a five-day strike that began on Friday. The BMA has rejected 18 emergency requests by NHS hospitals for striking doctors to cross the picket line and help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hospitals are able to make emergency requests for help to striking doctors called derogations to help stop patients coming to harm, such as in emergency departments and cancer care. However, Sir Jim said that of the 18 rejected requests, the BMA would only support half of these if extortionate pay rates were offered to striking doctors. In a message seen by The Telegraph, he said they had worked to overhaul the process for patient safety mitigations with nine requests approved by Sunday night. But he added: Unfortunately, despite all requests being made and verified by senior medics, 18 have been rejected by the BMA, with half of those rejections saying the BMA would support only if extortionate pay rates were offered to striking doctors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He encouraged NHS bosses to keep putting them forward where they were needed. The exemptions are requested by senior NHS medics in exceptional circumstances to protect patient safety and must be agreed on a case-by-case basis by BMA leaders, including chairman, Dr Tom Dolphin. As of Sunday evening, there had been 47 requests for 125 doctors, according to the BMA. Some are pending or were withdrawn. A BMA spokesman said: These claims by Sir James that if extortionate pay rates were offered to striking doctors, then nine of the 18 derogations that were not granted, would have been granted are untrue and unfounded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When a derogation is agreed between the BMA and NHS England and which requires a resident doctor to return to work, they do not receive any kind of enhanced payment because those resident doctors are going back to their ward or department to do their usual work. Sir James is clearly quite confused about the derogation process if he is suggesting anything different. Under the agreement we have with NHS England, before any derogation is granted a trust is expected to demonstrate they have done everything possible to incentivise non-striking doctors to cover the vacant shifts. This can include paying enhanced rates of pay and this is a usual practice when asking doctors to take on extra-contractual work, over and above their normal hours and is not exclusive to covering gaps that trusts have failed to adequately plan for during industrial action. However, the claim that the BMA requires increased payments to striking doctors is wholly wrong and Sir James Mackie should withdraw these comments and apologise for the misleading impression they are creating. The resident doctors are demanding a 29 per cent pay rise to return them to 2008 levels of pay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They have been awarded a 28.9 per cent pay rise since Labour came into power, including a 5.4 per cent rise for this financial year. Nurses, who are expected to overwhelmingly vote to reject their 3.6 per cent pay rise, could also ballot to take industrial action later this year. One emergency request rejected by the BMA was for a resident doctor to carry out biopsies on men with suspected prostate cancer at Milton Keynes Hospital. The doctor subsequently volunteered to return to work and was praised by Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, for their bravery. He said it ensured these men got the care they deserve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the requests granted by the BMA, one was for a doctor to return to work on a neonatal ward caring for newborn babies in Nottingham City Hospital. The BMA said it was launching a separate, related dispute with the Government over training bottlenecks. A survey of 1,053 resident doctors finishing their foundation training found that 52 per cent had not secured a job for next month. After two years of foundation training, resident doctors begin speciality training to become consultants or GPs. The BMA said this year there had been more than 30,000 doctors applying for just 10,000 posts. Dr Ross Nieuwoudt and Dr Melissa Ryan, BMA resident doctors committee co-chairs said: Its absurd that in a country where the Government says bringing down NHS waiting lists is one of its top priorities, not only is it not prepared to restore doctors pay, but it also wont provide jobs for doctors ready, willing and capable to progress in their careers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Commitments from the Government to address this dont go far enough or are too vague to convince us that they understand the gravity of the situation, so were making clear that, alongside pay, we are entering a dispute and demanding action so that no UK-trained, capable doctor is left underemployed in the NHS. It comes as health workers represented by the trade union, Unite, voted to reject the 3.6 per cent pay award for this financial year. Some 89 per cent rejected the deal, with the union saying it was prepared to take strike action. It represents a range of NHS staff, including paramedics, healthcare assistants, and cleaners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: When it came into power, this Government was clear that the NHS was broken. But staff are still leaving in droves, and morale is still at an all-time low. The NHS cant be repaired while the Government continues to erode pay and drastically cut NHS budgets. Health workers in the GMB union have also rejected the pay deal, while the Royal College of Nursing is due to announce a ballot of its members this week. Resident doctors were on the picket line at King Georges Hospital in Mr Streetings constituency of Ilford on Tuesday. Dr Ryan said Mr Streeting had not contacted them over the weekend. Weve always said that our door is open for talks should he have called us over the weekend to say, come around the table, talk to our committee, heres an offer Ive got, we would have absolutely done so, with the idea that we could have called off the strike action, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, we havent heard from him yet. That doesnt mean that hes not going to call us tomorrow our door is always open. Dr Nieuwoudt said: There does not need to be a single other day of industrial action at all. All Wes Streeting needs to do is come to us now and talk to us now, because thats what doctors want and thats what patients need. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. After Pete Hegseth walked away from the Signal chat scandal relatively unscathed largely avoiding the public ire of President Donald Trump Nicolle Wallace says the defense secretary has finally earned a rare rebuke from the White House over his obsessive paranoia about alleged leaks at the Pentagon. On Monday, Wallace shared a new report from The Washington Post about Hegseths use of polygraph tests to root out people within the agency who may be leaking information to the media. According to the Post, Hegseth was ordered to halt those tests after a senior adviser raised concerns directly with the White House. That intervention, according to people familiar with the matter who spoke to the Post, came in the form of a phone call by an individual close to the administration after Hegseths team had begun administering polygraph tests to people around the defense secretary in April. (The Pentagon declined to respond directly to the Posts reporting about the polygraph tests.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wallace, who served as the White House communications director during former President George W. Bushs second term, noted officials did administer polygraph tests during her time in the government but stressed it was often a last resort. The Deadline: White House host explained that in her experience, polygraph tests would only be used in specific and narrow national security situations, not to prevent leaks about what a hot mess Pete Hegseth is. But, according to Wallace, under Hegseth, That is clearly the deployment of the polygraph inside the Pentagon. Wallace also warned that this report could be the tip of the iceberg concerning how career officials are being treated at the Defense Department under Hegseth. It suggests that the treatment of the careers is far worse, Wallace said. You can watch Wallace's full comments in the clip at the top of the page. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com A Jersey City man has been charged with murder in the deadly beating of another man in the city last week, prosecutors announced Tuesday. Scott Bradley, 35, was charged with first-degree murder in the death of 56-year-old Joey Richburg, the Hudson County Prosecutors Office said. Richburg was found suffering from serious injuries around 9 a.m. Friday on Neptune Ave. near Garfield Ave., according to authorities. He was transported to Jersey City Medical Center but pronounced dead about 40 minutes later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Autopsy results showed Richburg died from blunt-force trauma to the head and is death was ruled a homicide, prosecutors said Tuesday. They did not offer additional details on the extent of his injuries. Bradley was arrested on Monday about 1 mile up the street at Randolph and Claremont avenues, less than 5 miles southwest of Battery Park. Investigators did not publicly reveal what evidence led them to identify Bradley as the killer. Richburgs murder was the ninth homicide in Jersey City in 2025, nearly double the five killings recorded in the city throughout all of 2024, according to the Jersey City Times. The citys deadliest incident this year occurred back in late January, when Luisa Urbano and her two children, 9-year-old Juan Martin Urbano and 5-year-old Diana Ramirez, were stabbed to death in their apartment. Urbanos ex-boyfriend, Napoleon Romero-Anduray, was charged with their murders. Tularosa Downwinders Consortium co-founder Tina Cordova and the NMDOJ on July 29, 2025 warned New Mexicans about scams related to the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act. New Mexicos nuclear victims waited 80 years for recognition and the right for compensation under the federal Radiation and Exposure Compensation Act. It took less than a month for scams to develop targeting those victims. RECA created in 1990 to provide restitution to people sickened by exposure to radiation and uranium excluded New Mexicos downwinders and post-1971 uranium miners, expired last year after years of lobbying for expansion by victims and New Mexicos elected leaders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But President Donald Trump signed a two-year expansion and extension into law earlier this month as part of Republicans so-called Big Beautiful Bill. On Tuesday, both the New Mexico Department of Justice and the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium issued a warning that RECA scams have already developed. According to an NMDOJ news release, organizations and attorneys are soliciting people to file claims with them for a fee, despite the fact that New Mexico will have a legitimate claim submission process and guidance forthcoming. The U.S. Department of Justice has not yet announced an official claims process for qualifying New Mexicans. Both U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.) and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) last week recently sent letters to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer urging them to issue guidance quickly for RECA given the short two-year timeline for compensation. We are grateful to our Congressional Delegation who tirelessly advocated for the expansion of these critical compensation efforts, New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez said in a statement. New Mexicans who have been affected by these exposures deserve compensation and they deserve to get that compensation free from bad actors attempting to take advantage of them. We encourage New Mexicans to file claims through legitimate entities to ensure they receive the maximum compensation they are entitled to through RECA, and also to file any reports of suspected fraudulent activity with our office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The news release notes that any entity that files a RECA claim on behalf of residents will charge a fee, which is capped at 2% by law, but can increase to 10% if that claim is rejected. Moreover, the state will have official RECA clinics to assist people. The Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium said it will have official updates online. The people of New Mexico have waited 80 years for acknowledgement of the harm they suffered as a result of being overexposed to radiation from the Trinity bomb, TBDC co-founder Tina Cordova said in a statement. We hope everyone will be patient a little longer as details of the claim process are developed. Please dont allow someone to take part of your claim out of fear or some sense of urgency. We will do all we can to assist with the claims process once the guidelines are released. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) The U.S. Education Department is beginning to release federal education funding to states, including several grants to New Mexico. In June, the Trump Administration told states that it was withholding previously approved federal grants for further review leaving several school districts with no economic support, according to an article by NPR. The Texas Education Agency announced last week that the administration was finally lifting the freeze and was planning to release billions of dollars in grants on Monday, July 29, including more than $19 million for El Paso County school Districts, according to an article by El Paso Matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The N.M. Delegation said on Tuesday that it pushed the Trump Administration to release nearly $7 billion in federal funding for New Mexico. The Delegation says $5.8 million in funding for English Language Acquisition programs that support multilingual learners was withheld, as well as $4.7 million in funding for critical adult education programs. New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez filed a lawsuit earlier this month to stop the U.S. Department of Education from unlawfully withholding over $6 billion in critical education fundingnearly $45 million of which is slated for New Mexico schools, the New Mexico Department of Justice said. For New Mexico, this funding is an essential investment in our childrens futures not a luxury. By illegally withholding it, President Trump forced schools to make difficult decisions about staffing, class sizes, and student services. Now, with the delayed release of this funding right as classes begin, schools are left scrambling to prepare. Our kids schools never should have been placed in this position. President Trump needs to understand that when it comes to our kids and their future, we will fight hard to ensure they have all the resources they need to get ahead. And we will remain vigilant to ensure the Trump Administration upholds its duty to distribute funding for our children, educators, and schools. Anything less than that is unacceptable. The New Mexico Delegation Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. The United States and China have failed to reach an agreement to extend a pause on high mutual tariffs after talks in Sweden. At a press conference in Stockholm on Tuesday, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced that he would return to Washington to hold talks with President Donald Trump over the tariff pause, which is set to expire on August 12. "Nothing is agreed until we speak with President Trump," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinese trade representative Li Chenggang said that both sides will continue to advocate a "continued extension" of the tariff pause, according to the Xinhua official news agency. However, he gave no indication as to when and for how long an extension could come into force. Both sides are aware of the importance of stable and reliable economic relations, he said. Since April, the US has increased import tariffs on Chinese goods in several stages to up to 145%. China responded with counter-tariffs of up to 125% and exerted pressure with export limits on certain materials. In May, both sides agreed in Geneva to a 90-day suspension of the tariffs. Further talks followed in June in London. Before the talks in Sweden began on Monday, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported that an extension by a further 90 days seemed possible. Bessent had also earlier said a negotiated extension was possible. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Several Northeast families in the Deanwood neighborhood are seeking a simple solution; gas restoration to their homes after they say went offline two months ago. I cant cook my greens. I mean, Ive tried to fry sliced chicken breasts, chicken livers, sliced pork chops, said Aletha Bush of Just Street, who admitted to spending roughly $200 for electric alternatives. People cope with another day of brutally hot weather in DC Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With no way to cook on her stove, the decades-long Ward 7 resident continues to cook with hot plates and a small air fryer, saying, and Ive lost 10 pounds. You know, because Im used to cooking. And, I cant have my granddaughter over and my daughter because we usually have Sunday dinner. Bush's granddaughter Aletha Bush continues to cook with alternative heating devices, including hot plate after gas stopped operating Memorial Day weekend Bush, along with neighbor Angela Norris, told DC News Now they are frustrated over bills for gas-related service, even after the gas stopped working inside their homes. It dont make sense, Norris said, adding, Were still getting charged for something that we dont have. Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Patricia Stamper reached out to City Council Chairman Phil Mendelson after the gas stopped flowing. Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Patricia Stamper continues to push for gas restoration for her neighbors Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An email a month after the gas issue started, Mendelson wrote, Washington Gas got back to me to explain the situation. A paving contractor working for DC Water hit the gas service Unfortunately, theyve been unable to turn gas on to each of the units because a wall has been constructed around the meter rack. I am contacting DOB to expedite this getting fixed. One homeowner, who did not wish to be identified, granted us access to the gas meters on Monday, which are walled up between two different homes on the ground-level, and only accessible if someone crawls on the ground between a series of pipes. A wall separates where lines of gas meters appear to be immediately accessible for review. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three homeowners on the block say gas meters for several homes affected by the outage are behind the wall. The meters appear to be accessible only by going through someones private home. GOP bill seeks to rename Kennedy Center for Trump Washington Gas told us Monday evening in part, We stand ready to restore service to the affected properties as soon as meter obstructions have been removed and it is safe and permissible to do so. However, one of two homeowners with access to the meters fears structural issues should the wall be removed and wishes Washington Gas can do more to access their own meters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want the gas back on, thats it, Stamper said Monday. Mendelson sent Stamper a follow-up email mid-July, saying, I think the situation on Just Street is beyond the pale. I discussing with c/m [Ward 7 councilmember] Felder Im putting some money in the budget so that DOB [department of buildings] can fix the physical situation so that the meters can be accessed. My staff (which has oversight of DOB) has been in communication with DOB leadership to ensure they act. However, I do not know as of this writing how soon the situation will be fixed. DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson DC News Now is in the process of receiving a comment from the Department of Buildings. Washington Gas is actively working with multiple city agencies and partners to reestablish access to the affected gas meters. We recognize the impact this situation has had on our customers, a Washington Gas spokesperson added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) Two families were displaced after a fire at an apartment building on Tuesday in Hartford, fire officials said. Firefighter dies after Plainville house fire Crews responded to a fire at a multi-unit apartment complex in the 100 block of Washington Street at approximately 11:48 a.m. The first-floor fire was contained to a single apartment and extinguished in 15 minutes. Two adults and one child were displaced Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported. The American Red Cross worked with the Hartford Fire Department Special Services Unit to assist the displaced families. This is a developing story. Stay with News 8 for updates. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. The "missing minute" from the surveillance video at the Manhattan Metropolitan Correctional Center where Jeffrey Epstein died in 2019 may not be missing after all, CBS News has learned. When the Justice Department and FBI released nearly 11 hours of footage earlier this month, the time code on the screen jumped forward one minute just before midnight, prompting questions about the one-minute gap. The video shows part of the area near the cell where Epstein was being held the night he died in what the medical examiner ruled a suicide. A government source familiar with the investigation says the FBI, the Bureau of Prisons and the Department of Justice inspector general are all in possession of a copy of the video that does not cut from just before 11:59 p.m. to midnight of the night Epstein died by suicide in his cell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What is unclear is why that section was missing when the FBI released what it said was raw footage from inside the Special Housing Unit the night Epstein died, Aug. 9-10, 2019. The recording came from what officials said was the only relevant video camera that was recording its footage in the unit. This video has been cited by multiple government officials as a key piece of evidence in the determination that Epstein died by suicide. Epstein's death, as with many aspects of his high-profile sex trafficking case, has become fodder for conspiracy theories. The missing minute added to the conjecture after the release of the video, when news organizations and amateur sleuths who reviewed the video quickly noticed that onscreen jump in the time stamp. Attorney General Pam Bondi was questioned about the gap during a July 8 Cabinet meeting with President Trump. She said the missing minute was the result of a nightly reset of the video that caused the recording system to miss one recording minute every night, and attributed that information to the Bureau of Prisons. "There was a minute that was off that counter and what we learned from [the] Bureau of Prisons was every year, every night, they redo that video," Bondi said. The equipment was old "from like 1999, so every night is reset, so every night should have that same missing minute," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bondi said the department would share other video that showed the same thing happened every night when the video system reset. That video, however, has not yet been released. Experts in surveillance video, including video forensic professionals, told CBS News that a nightly reset would have been unusual and was not something they encountered in most video systems. One thing that is clear, forensic experts say, is that the version of the recording released by the FBI was edited and not raw, as the government stated. Bondi, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino and others have said publicly that the video would be released unaltered. When the DOJ and FBI shared the video with the public, they said in a news release that it was the "full raw" video, and that "anyone entering or attempting to enter the tier where Epstein's cell was located from the SHU common area would have been captured by this footage." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jim Stafford was one of several video forensic analysts who looked at the video for CBS News using specialized software to extract the underlying coding, known as metadata. He said the metadata showed that the file was first created on May 23 of this year and that it was likely a "screen capture, not an actual export" of the raw file. He also told CBS News the metadata showed that the video was in fact two separate videos stitched together. It was also slightly sped up, so the video covering 11 hours runs approximately 10 hours and 53 minutes in length. CBS asked the FBI and Justice Department for a response, but they declined to comment. The Bureau of Prisons said they "had no additional information to provide." John Oliver: The 60 Minutes Interview Finding the plane used for Argentina's dictatorship-era "death flights" | 60 Minutes Immigration agent told 18-year-old U.S. citizen "you got no rights here" during arrest Palestinian activist Odeh Hathalin, who served as a consultant on the Oscar-winning doc No Other Land, died on Monday after being shot by an Israeli settler in the West Bank, according to multiple reports. Hathalins shooting was first reported by Yuval Abraham, the Israeli journalist and co-director of No Other Land. Abraham said Hathalin was shot in the upper body and was in critical condition. The Palestinian health ministry subsequently said he had died from these injuries. More from Variety Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli police said its forces arrived at the scene and detained an Israeli civilian, who was later arrested for questioning. Police did not identify the man they arrested. The Israeli military claimed that terrorists hurled rocks toward Israeli civilians near Carmel, an Israeli settlement near Umm al-Khair, CNN reported. Hathaleen was allegedly shot by Yinon Levi, an extremist previously sanctioned by the Biden administration, the U.K. and Canada, according to Israeli media reports. Odeh just died. Murdered. https://t.co/rRWqSa48iN Yuval Abraham (@yuval_abraham) July 28, 2025 Basel Adra, the Palestinian journalist who co-directed No Other Land, also shared testimony about his dear friend Hathalin. He was standing in front of the community settler in his village when a settler fired a bullet that pierced his chest and took his life. This is how Israel erases us one life at a time, Adra wrote in a post on Instagram. Hathalins killing is reported to have taken place in a village close to Hebron. Violence by armed Israeli the West Bank has surged since the Hamas attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. Since then, at least 964 Palestinians have been killed by both Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, according to the United Nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hathalin, a well-known activist who had accompanied journalists and activists for years in the West Bank and took part in the filming of No Other Land, last month had travelled to California to visit a synagogue as part of an interfaith speaking tour and was detained at San Francisco International Airport upon arrival and deported after immigration officials revoked his visa, according to several reports. No Other Land, which won the best documentary Oscar, was made by an Israeli-Palestinian collective including Abraham, Ballal, Basel Adra and Rachel Szor. It follows a Palestinian family living in the West Bank as their home gets destroyed by the Israeli government and they face displacement. Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Palestinian activist and community leader Odeh Hathalin (aka Awdah Hathaleen), who worked with directors Basel Adra and Yuval Abraham on their Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land, has been shot dead by an Israeli settler in the Occupied West Bank. In a post on X, Israeli journalist and documentarian Abraham reported that Hathalin was shot in the chest on Monday by an Israeli settler. More from Deadline Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The director said the assailant had been identified by local residents as Yinon Levi, who is among a group of Israeli settlers operating in the West Bank, who have been sanctioned by the UK and the EU, while Donald Trump rescinded restrictions at the beginning of his presidency this year. An Israeli settler just shot Odeh Hadalin in the lungs, a remarkable activist who helped us film No Other Land in Masafer Yatta. Residents identified Yinon Levi, sanctioned by the EU and US, as the shooter. This is him in the video firing like crazy. pic.twitter.com/xH1Uo6L1wN Yuval Abraham (@yuval_abraham) July 28, 2025 The post also featured footage of Levi brandishing a gun and firing wildly, although it was not clear whether the images were related to the incident in which Hathalin was killed. Israeli media reported that Levi was arrested by Israeli police on Monday on suspicion of fatally shooting Hathalin, but was released on house arrest on Tuesday, while investigations continued. No Other Land, which won the Best Documentary Academy award this year, documents the cycle of destruction and harassment on a collection of hamlets and their Bedouin communities which lie on the Palestinian West Bank side of the 1949 Green Line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their future has been at stake since Israel declared much of the land they are situated on a live-fire training zone in the 1980s, with their inhabitants coming under further pressure from the construction of illegal Israeli settlements on their doorstep such as Carmel and Maon. Hathalin has been described as a father of three, English teacher and activist hailing from the village of Umm Al-Kheir, who supported journalists visiting the area and also took part in in the filming of No Other Land. I can hardly believe it. My dear friend Awdah was slaughtered this evening.He was standing in front of the community center in his village when a settler fired a bullet that pierced his chest and took his life. This is how Israel erases us one life at a time, wrote No Other Land co-director Adra on his X account, attaching an image of them together in Rome. Hathalins murder comes amid growing violence settler across the entire West Bank in recent months and sparked been widespread condemnation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frances Ministry For Europe and Foreign Affairs put out a statement on Tuesday voicing the countrys immense sadness on learning of the murder of Odeh Hathalin. France condemns this murder in the strongest possible terms, as well as all the deliberate violence perpetrated by extremist settlers against the Palestinian population, which has been increasing across the West Bank, particularly in Kafr Malik and the Christian village of Taybeh in recent weeks, read the statement. This violence constitutes an act of terrorism. Settlers have killed more than 30 people since the beginning of 2022. Israeli authorities must take responsibility and immediately punish the perpetrators of this violence, which continues with impunity, and protect Palestinian civilians, it added. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. No Other Land filmmakers Yuval Abraham, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal, and Basel Adra at the Oscars. - Credit: Arturo Holmes/WireImage Palestinian activist Odeh Hadalin (a.k.a. Awdah Hathaleen), who was featured in the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land, was shot to death in the West Bank on Monday. The news was initially reported by the films co-director, Yuval Abraham, who posted a video of an Israeli settler, identified as Yinon Levi, shooting at a group of activists in the village of Umm al-Khair, located in Masafer Yatta. More from Rolling Stone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Israeli settler just shot Odeh Hadalin in the lungs, a remarkable activist who helped us film No Other Land in Masafer Yatta, Abraham wrote alongside the video. Residents identified Yinon Levi, sanctioned by the EU and US, as the shooter. Two hours later, Abraham added in a comment, Odeh just died from his wounds. He was murdered. No Other Land co-director Basel Adra added in an Instagram Story, My dear friend Awdah was slaughtered this evening. He was standing in front of the community centre in his village when a settler fired a bullet that pierced his chest and took his life. This is how Israel erases us one life at a time. Israeli police confirmed the death in a statement (via Al Jazeera). Following the incident, the death of a Palestinian was confirmed, they said. His exact involvement in the incident is being verified. Levi was arrested following the incident. An Israeli citizen was detained at the scene and then arrested by police for questioning, Israeli police said in the statement. Four Palestinians were also arrested in connection with the incident, along with two foreign tourists who were at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haaretz reported that Levi was sanctioned by several countries last year due to violence against Palestinians, while the Times of Israel noted that the sanctions put in place by the United States under the Biden administration were lifted by Donald Trump. Masafer Yatta is part of the Israeli-occupied West Bank and was the main subject of No Other Land, which won the Academy Award for Best Documentary earlier this year. The film was made between 2019 and 2023 and documents Israels violent treatment of Palestinians in the West Bank. Israeli soldiers and settlers have killed more than 1,000 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank since the start of the war between Israel and Gaza in October 2023. Its great that were nominated [for an Oscar] and people are talking about it, but in a few months they will move on to the next film or the next thing, Abraham told Rolling Stone in February. And we are going to continue our work. Its our lifes mission to end the injustice that is going on here and to make this place better. This is why we are not placing all of our emotion and heart on this Oscar, because its just the statue at the end of the day people here are dying every single day. Gaza is destroyed as a place. Basels community might not exist in a few years if there is no change in U.S. foreign policy. In April, Hamdan Ballal, another of the films co-directors, was beaten and degraded by Israeli settlers, then blindfolded and detained at an army base, only weeks after winning an Oscar. The filmmaker and activist called the experience the worst moment of my life in a New York Times op-ed. I could hear my wife and kids screaming and crying, calling for me and telling the men to go away, he wrote of the attack, adding: My wife and I both thought I would be killed. We feared what would happen to my family if I died. Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge is seen from the air on Sept. 1, 2006. (Photo provided by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) Yukon Flats Tribes and the river system they call home gain nothing and stand to lose everything with the Alaska Division of Oil and Gass recent proposal to open state lands in the region to oil exploration. Once again we are seeing outside decision-makers trying to decide our future without our input or consent. The Tanana Chiefs Conference and 42 Interior Tribes have standing resolutions opposing oil and gas development in the area. The Gwichin Nation and Tribes of the Yukon Flats will continue to demand a seat at the table for these decisions. We have the right to say no when there is so much at stake. This new proposal comes as Yukon River salmon populations are collapsing. Tribes are in a crisis, banned from accessing the food and cultural sustenance theyve depended on for millennia. No amount of money can possibly justify endangering the Yukon River watershed, or the Tribes health and traditions, all for corporate profits we will never see. The state should be doing absolutely everything it can to protect salmon and the Yukon River watershed, not creating yet another threat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ongoing salmon collapse is reshaping life along the Yukon River and is an emergency that cannot be ignored. Industry activity and the climate crisis are having a huge impact on our communities, and oil is a dire new threatnot only to traditional foods but the physical and cultural health they provide. A new generation is already missing out on learning and experiencing their own culture. The state hasnt shared which company applied for a permit, or exactly where this development would take placethe lack of transparency in this process is deeply concerning. There is no place for oil development in the Yukon Flats. Not only does it hold life-giving salmon rivers, but its also home to intact wetlands and other waterways that sustain communities. Oil and gas exploration would be yet another assault on the health of these communities, lands, and waters, and a gateway to many more problems. An April spill of 1,000 gallons of diesel fuel close to the Yukon River, by a contractor that has supported Doyon-Hilcorp oil exploration near Birch Creek, shows that industry accidents and contamination are not a question of if, but when. The state has an opportunity right now to do the right thing and deny this permit, to show the communities of the Yukon Flats that their rights matter more than corporate profits. The state can support communities access to clean water, healthy fish and wildlife populations, to plants and berries, and their right to say no to harmful development. This could open the door to disaster in the Yukon Flats. The state can deny this oil exploration application now, and any others in the future. The public comment period for this proposal is open until July 30. Click here for more information. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Sweating and out of breath, young Poles throw grenades and practise evacuating the wounded at a training ground outside Warsaw. Instead of relaxing at the beach, they have chosen to do army drills over the summer holidays. Nearly 10,000 men and women have volunteered for the month-long, paid "Vacation with the Army" programme, which the defence ministry launched to promote military service among young people as Poland beefs up its security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EU and NATO member -- which borders Belarus, Russia and Ukraine -- has been strengthening its defensive assets since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 out of fear that it could be next. "The training includes shooting and tactics classes, field studies, and general air defence," said lieutenant Patrycja Adamska, spokeswoman for the army's 10th Car Regiment, one of the units involved in the programme. "The recruits have an opportunity to experience the discipline of soldier life," she told AFP. The participants, most of them 18 to 20 years old, spend 27 days in a unit, after which they are awarded a rank and can continue service or become part of the reserve personnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michal Piekut, a master's student in international security, was surprised by the rigour of the drills. Sporting camouflage paint and in full uniform, the 29-year-old was barely standing from the exertion. "This is no vacation, it's intensive military training. I thought I wouldn't make it," he told AFP after dragging a heavy munition chest across many metres of sandy terrain. "Nobody fainted yet, but the day is young," he deadpanned. Lieutenant Michal Gelej from the army recruitment office said the programme "constitutes a wonderful alternative to summer jobs", as a payout of 1,400 euros awaits those who complete it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goran Meredith, a 19-year-old American studies student at the University of Warsaw, said the money and summer timing allowed him to participate, otherwise he "wouldn't have time to be here". The ongoing war in Ukraine was another incentive. Piekut said he was considering a future military career: "I want to become a reserve soldier, and if need be, serve my homeland." - Learning from Ukraine - Just after Russia's Ukraine invasion, Poland adopted a homeland security law that included the goal of "enlarging military personnel". It also updated its voluntary conscription programme in 2022 with an eye towards increasing the army reserve. It drew nearly 90,000 candidates over the years 2023 and 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The defence ministry launched the "Vacation with the Army" programme last year, along with exercises in schools and weekend boot camps for civilians, promoted by a large-scale social media campaign. "The Ukrainian example teaches us that the professional army gets used up in about a year" if it cannot draw on adequate reserves, said Bartosz Marczuk, a Sobieski Institute expert who co-authored a report on the idea of introducing mandatory military training in Poland. "We are the largest country on NATO's eastern flank, and its keystone of security," he added. Marczuk said that any reintroduction of mandatory army service -- which Poland ended in 2009 -- would need to be preceded by voluntary programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That's why all initiatives of this sort have to be supported," he told AFP. In March, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that by 2027, Poland will expand its voluntary military training program to accommodate 100,000 recruits per year, in order to create "an army of reservists". Piekut doubted whether his compatriots were up to the task. "Most adults could not handle it. There are very high requirements, physically, psychologically, and in terms of discipline," he said. Meredith agreed: "We're in our first week and 10 people have quit already, so it speaks for itself". str/amj/gv Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem criticized U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., on Monday, after he and other lawmakers tried to inspect a migrant detention facility, accusing the lawmaker of prioritizing the rights of criminal illegal immigrants over Americans. Van Hollen, a vocal critic of the Trump administration's illegal immigration raids, was part of a Maryland congressional delegation that was denied entry to inspect a Baltimore U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility. The lawmakers, which included Van Hollen and Sen. Angela Alsobrooks, and U.S. Reps. Glenn Ivey, Johnny Olzewski Jr., Sarah Elfreth and Kweisi Mfume, staged a sit-in upon being denied entry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats Celebrate Return Of Suspected Human Trafficker Kilmar Abrego Garcia Homeland Security Secretary posted images of four illegal immigrants arrested on suspicion of various crimes. "President Trump lied to the American people when he said the Trump administration was simply going to focus on the worst of the worst," Van Hollen said outside the facility. In response to the sit-in, Noem posted the image of four unidentified illegal immigrants arrested for various crimes, including rape, possession of child pornography, sexual abuse of a minor and murder. Read On The Fox News App "These are the monsters that @ChrisVanHollen is protecting over American victims," she wrote on X. U.S. Rep. Johnny Olszewski, D, Md., who was part of Monday's delegation, said they were denied entry despite following the legal requirements to enter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Congress has a legal right to inspect ICE facilities," he wrote on social media. "Amid reports of inhumane conditions, this refusal is alarming. We wont stop fighting for accountability." Noem Dismisses Jeffries' Warnings As Dhs Considers Arrests Of Democratic Lawmakers After Ice Facility Clash Maryland congressional lawmakers, including U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks, and U.S. Reps. Glenn Ivey, Johnny Olszewski Jr., Sarah Elfreth and Kweisi Mfume, staged a sit-in at a Baltimore ICE office on Monday. A post in response by the Department of Homeland Security accused the lawmaker of wanting a "photo op." "Congressman, if you need a photo op with the violent criminal illegal aliens you are protectingschedule a TOUR," the post states. "As for visits to detention facilities, requests should be made with sufficient time to prevent interference with the Presidents Article II authority to oversee executive department functionsa week is sufficient to ensure no intrusion on the Presidents constitutional authority. To protect the Presidents Article II authority, any request to shorten that time must be approved by the Secretary." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Van Hollen has come under heavy criticism for his advocacy for suspected gang member Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia. Van Hollen was the first of several Democratic lawmakers to fly to visit Abrego Garcia after he was deported to a high-security prison in his home country, El Salvador, in March. Abrego Garcia, 29, has been returned to the U.S. and is facing charges in a sealed federal indictment in Tennessee for alleged conspiracy to unlawfully transport illegal aliens for financial gain and unlawful transportation of illegal aliens. Though many Democrats claim Abrego Garcia is an innocent man who was wrongly deported, the administration has pointed to considerable evidence that he is a member of the MS-13 gang. According to court records filed by his wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, he also allegedly physically abused her on multiple occasions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As I have repeatedly said, this is not about the man. Its about his constitutional rights, and the rights of all," Van Hollen told Fox News Digital in June about the case. "The administration will now have to make its case in the court of law, as it should have all along." Original article source: Noem exposes the 'monsters' Democrat senator is fighting to protect in immigration battle DARLINGTON COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) A man arrested and charged with criminal sexual conduct in Darlington County on Tuesday will be transferred to the custody of U.S. immigration officials after the sheriffs office said he was not a U.S. citizen. Antonio Bustamante was charged with second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor. The alleged crime happened between April 1 and May 31 in the Darlington area, according to the sheriffs office. Bustamante was arrested by the sheriffs office with assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. During the booking process, authorities learned he was not a U.S. citizen and contacted Immigration and Customs Enforcement authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs office said Bustamante will remain in the W. Glenn Campbell Detention Center until he can be transferred into ICE custody. He was denied bond at a court hearing on Wednesday. Bustamante is at least the third person to be arrested in Darlington County this year who was not a U.S. citizen. Jorge Salgado-Reyes was arrested on an attempted murder charge, while Freddy Hernandez was charged with several traffic offenses. * * * Caleb is a digital producer at News13. Caleb joined the team in January 2023 after graduating from Liberty University. He is from Northern Virginia. Follow Caleb on X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. A military nonprofit is expanding its child care capacity by 70,000 points of service in five key areas with high demands for various types of care. The expansion will allow the Armed Services YMCA branches to provide more before- and after-school care, summer camp opportunities and transportation to bridge the gap for military families who need access to expanded programs. The initiative, which is funded by a substantial donation by Navy Federal Credit Union, aims to supplement the child care that the Defense Department provides, as well as help fill some additional needs, said Armed Services YMCA President and CEO William French, a retired Navy vice admiral. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For decades, military families have struggled with finding affordable, quality child care. Defense officials and service officials have implemented a variety of programs to help relieve the shortage, including improving pay and benefits for child care workers. Shortages of child care workers have exacerbated the problem in both the military and civilian communities. ASYMCA, which is specifically focused on providing a variety of services and programs for active-duty junior enlisted troops and their families, has long provided various forms of child care at many of its 12 branches across the country. Most recently, through a contract with DOD, the nonprofit is working to open three new child care centers in the Norfolk, Virginia Beach and the National Capital Region, which will provide a total of 600 much-needed additional child care spaces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 600 child care slots coming to these military families All these expansions funded by Navy Federal are in locations where ASYMCA already has branches and where there is adequate staff. With investments in things like vans and buses for transportation and additional rooms, this has postured us to continue to have this available for military families in the future, French said. Programs are offered to families at low or no cost. For example, the summer day camps at ASYMCA cost around $100 per child per week, French said, which is on the low end of what other camps cost on average. Affordable and reliable child care is not just a convenience, its a critical component of readiness for military families, French said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At Marine Corps Base Hawaii Kaneohe Bay, the funding will help pay for an additional classroom to allow preschool classes in the mornings and afternoons. In San Diego, ASYMCA is increasing the capacity for camps and before- and after-school care. In Killeen, Texas, near Fort Hood, the nonprofit covered and adapted an outside area to expand their before- and after-school care, as well as their on-site summer camps. An unexpected added benefit is that soldiers are now doing their PT there, French said. At Fort Bragg, North Carolina, ASYMCA expanded the available space to do more summer camps and provide for more preschool support during the school year. Responding to a need for transportation, theyve used some of the Navy Federal funding to buy vehicles, such as vans and buses, to transport the children from schools to the ASYMCA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the Hampton Roads, Virginia, ASYMCA, the nonprofit expanded and improved its areas for summer camp, and for a new preschool class. But high demand for their services in Virginia is a continuing challenge, French said. The group is working with both the Navy and the mayor of Virginia Beach to try to find additional space either on base or in town. We think the biggest issues affecting families today are [around] spouse employment, French said, adding that if ASYMCA could provide more child-care options to allow spouses to get training and jobs, it could help resolve issue for military families. Alongside Armed Services YMCA, were supporting financial wellness for our members by sponsoring sustainable child care services for military families, Olivia Miller, vice president of strategic partnerships and community impact at Navy Federal Credit Union, said in a statement. NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) Beginning in 2027, there will be at least two large cruise ships docked at the Half Moone Cruise & Celebration Center on Waterside Dr. in Norfolk each week, for much of the Spring and Summer. Tuesday, Nauticus announced that Norwegian Cruise Line has committed to call on Norfolk as part of the Norwegian Pearls itinerary. The 2,400 passenger ship is expected to dock for 20 weeks beginning in April, potentially introducing 49,000 more passengers to the region. This will happen alongside the weekly cruises leaving on the Carnival Sunshine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nauticus executive director Stephen E. Kirkland said its a point of pride to see the cruise pier being utilized to this extent. Well have the opportunity to welcome nearly 2,500 additional passengers and 1,000 crew members every single Tuesday for five months, Kirkland said. That activity, coupled with our Carnival sailings each weekend, represents a broadening economic impact for this entire region. Norwegians commitment represent one of the largest port-of-call commitments in Norfolks history according to Kirkland. The first modern-day cruises arrived in 1996, which the pier being constructed in 2001. In the last decade, Norfolk taxpayers have invested millions in order to make improvements, including $12 million to prepare for year-round cruising from Carnival. Norwegian is the fourth-largest cruise company in the world and Kirkland believes they will not only benefit Norfolk Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This Norwegian Cruise Line activity will benefit Yorktown and Jamestown, and Williamsburg and Virginia Beach and local museums, he said. And thats what its all about. Norfolk holds ribbon cutting ceremony to kick off year-round cruises And so, this really is the start of something big for this city, in this region as a cruise port, as a cruise hub, Kirkland said. Some additional cruise lines scheduled to visit Norfolks port between 2025-26 include Holland America, TUI Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Azamara, Seabourn, Viking and Carnival Sunshine. Kirkland hopes the message is getting out that its smart to cruise through Norfolk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kirkland said there are plans for a study to determine the true economic impact of year-round cruising, but hes not sure when that will be released. Thats why this announcement is so important, Kirkland said, is were filling up the pier during the week. We obviously are filling it up during the weekend, or at least one day, during the weekend, and so were just trying to grow smartly. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) The Norfolk School Board is actively seeking a new superintendent following the termination of Dr. Sharon Byrdsong in June. The board voted 4-3 to terminate Dr. Byrdsongs contract without cause. Norfolk School Board votes to terminate superintendent Sharon I. Byrdsong To gather community input on the superintendent search, the school board announced Tuesday that it has scheduled two listening sessions in August. These sessions are open to parents, staff, and community members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Date: August 7, 2025 Time: 6:30 p.m. Location: Norview High School Auditorium (6501 Chesapeake Blvd.) Date: August 23, 2025 Time: 10 a.m. Location: Booker T. Washington High School Cafeteria (1111 Park Ave.) For those unable to attend the listening sessions, a survey is available on the divisions website. This allows community members to provide their feedback and suggestions regarding the new superintendent. There are 11 questions on the survey. NPS said hard copies of the survey will also be available at school board administration offices. There is an Aug. 24 deadline to complete the survey. Survey Link Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Appointing a new superintendent is one of the most significant duties of the school board, and we are committed to making sure the community is involved every step of the way, said Sarah DiCalogero, Chair of the School Board. The Virginia School Boards Association (VBSA) is assisting the board with the search. Its a busy time for the Norfolk School Board, which has been tasked with creating a list of at least ten schools to close and consolidate. It was given a deadline of August 1, but as WAVYs Brett Hall reported earlier this month, the Norfolk School Board Chair indicated they may not meet City Councils deadline. WAVY is closely following developments and will bring you any updates as the original deadline nears. Many not pleased with NPS preliminary list of possible school closures Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Continue to check WAVY.com for updates. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. Chantal's floodwaters left significant damage to Camp Easter Rd. and N.C. 2 in Southern Pines, NC on July 8, 2025. (Photo courtesy of NCDOT) Before, during and after a natural disaster hits North Carolina, multiple state agencies spring into action. The Department of Public Safety houses emergency management, which leads the immediate response. Consumer Services flags price gouging scams. Agriculture officials survey damage to farms and crops, and Environmental Quality helps guide cleanup of debris and waterways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A newly drafted bill puts forward a new system: an all-in-one disaster response agency, governed by bipartisan appointees. That agency, outlined under a new version of House Bill 907 released Monday, would be called the North Carolina Commission for Preparedness and Recovery. Its exact proposed duties, and structure, could change as discussions about the bill continue. Rep. John Bell (R-Wayne) (Photo: NCGA video) This is a piece of legislation that will be worked on for many months to come, said Rep. John Bell (R-Wayne). As currently written, the commission would wide-ranging powers: coordinating disaster readiness, spearheading recovery and rebuilding, and handling the hundreds of millions of dollars in state and federal funds that flow into the state. In all, it would oversee homebuilding, flood resiliency and mitigation, landslide and floodplain mapping, flood insurance and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commission would be governed by a group of 13 board members: seven appointed by the governor, and six total appointed by legislative leaders. The board would appoint an executive director, who could hire additional staff as needed. Lawmakers proposed overhaul comes as North Carolina continues to rebuild from Hurricane Helene, the deadliest storm in state history as well as finish building in the east years after Hurricanes Florence and Matthew. And the plan could impact (and be impacted by) potential changes coming down from Washington, where President Trump has considered abolishing FEMA and handing responsibility for disaster response to the states. Among the commissions proposed first steps: adopting a strategic plan that addresses how the state will handle all stages of disaster response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill would also create a new fund, overseen by State Treasurer Brad Briners office, for buyouts, gap funding, loans and grants and other disaster-related projects. Its a way to look at and get input and work together, Bell said of the bill, as not just a House and Senate, but with the governor. RALEIGH, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) North Carolina state senators are discussing the option to override several vetoes on controversial bills. On Tuesday morning, Governor Josh Stein urged legislators to pass a budget that prioritizes taking care of North Carolinians. He says its time for the governing body to put its money where its mouth is. For Stein, that includes meaningful raises for state employees. He says teachers, law enforcement officers, youth counselors, and other workers deserve to know they are valued without a new budget that is already four weeks overdue. Additionally, public employees will not get additional resources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both the House and the Senate are slated to hold veto override votes on a combined 14 bills Governor Stein stopped from going into law. Proposed legislation includes new rules for concealed carry permits, officially recognizing two genders, and immigration enforcement in the state. Overrides need a majority vote from both chambers. Queen City News will keep you updated on any additional votes happening this week. QCNEWS.COM NORTH CAROLINA NEWS Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Fannin County Schools is enhancing security by introducing a new weapons detection system and visitor management system for the new school year. In a letter shared with parents, Superintendent Shannon Dillard said the improvements are part of their commitment to a safe learning environment. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The Evolv Express system uses advanced sensor technology and artificial intelligence to detect concealed weapons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CheckMate Pro will streamline visitor management by conducting Georgia Sex Offender Registry checks and providing instant reports on campus visitors. We are committed to safety as our top priority by creating a safe and supportive learning environment where every student can thrive, said Dillard. The new systems will be rolled out when the new school year begins next week. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to these new systems, Dillard says Fannin County Schools will continue to utilize existing safety measures, including an expanded team of School Resource Officers and electronic locks that allow for immediate facility lockdowns from a single control point. Audio Enhancement solutions are also in place to facilitate quick communication during emergencies. The district emphasizes the importance of community vigilance, encouraging everyone to see something, say something. The first day of school in Fannin County is Wednesday, Aug. 6. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Kim Jong-Uns powerful sister opened up about relations with the second Trump administration, warning the U.S. not to try to restart talks centered on getting North Korea to give up its nuclear program. Kim Yo Jong, in remarks blasted out by state media, said relations between President Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un are "not bad" but added Pyongyang would view any attempt to pressure North Korea to denuclearize as "nothing but a mockery." She said that North Koreas nuclear arsenal has sharply increased since Trump and Kim last spoke, and the pair would not meet for a summit again if denuclearization was on the table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The North Korean dictators sister did not rule out bilateral talks entirely as she did with South Korea in a separate statement. Woman Learns Fate After Doj Guilty Plea Admitting She Helped North Korean Tech Workers Infiltrate Us Companies "If the U.S. fails to accept the changed reality and persists in the failed past, the DPRK- U.S. meeting will remain as a hope of the U.S. side," Kim Yo Jong said, referring to the nation by its official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. Read On The Fox News App She said it would be "advisable to seek another way of contact." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump held three unprecedented summits with the North Korean leader he dubbed "Little Rocket Man" during his first term: in Singapore in 2018, Hanoi in 2019 and the Korean Demilitarized Zone in 2019, becoming the first president to step foot on North Korean territory. None of the meetings resulted in any breakthroughs: North Korea kept its nukes, and the U.S. left sanctions that have isolated it from international markets in place. Kim Yo Jong is a top official on the Central Committee of the Norths ruling Workers Party and handles relations with the U.S. and South Korea. Russia's Lavrov Warns Us Against 'Exploiting' Alliances As He Meets With Kim Jong Un In North Korea Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kim Yo Jongs comments came after an article posted by Yonhap news agency cited an unnamed White House official as saying Trump "remains open to engaging with Leader Kim to achieve a fully denuclearized North Korea." White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said last month Trump would like to see "progress" this term on the summits he held during the first term. In a statement commemorating the 72nd anniversary of the end of the Korean War on Monday, Trump said, "I was proud to become the first sitting President to cross this Demilitarized Zone into North Korea." North Koreas nuclear arsenal has sharply increased since President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un last spoke, and the pair would not meet for a summit again if denuclearization was on the table. He underscored the U.S. alliance with South Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Although the evils of communism still persist in Asia, American and South Korean forces remain united in an ironclad alliance to this day." Original article source: North Korea breaks silence on Trump's return, sends message from 'Rocket Man' High atop the Korean Peninsula, past military checkpoints and bumpy dirt roads in one of the worlds most secretive countries, rises a volcano and deep crater lake steeped in symbolism. Mount Paektu, an active stratovolcano straddling the border of North Korea and China, is the highest peak on the Korean peninsula and lies at the heart of North Koreas foundation myth. The North Korean side of the mountain was recently designated a UNESCO Global Geopark, marking North Koreas first natural site to be included on the list. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The executive board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognized the site for its impressive natural and cultural heritage, including its volcanic eruptions and geological features, in a meeting held in February. But to grasp the significance, you have to stand at the edge of Lake Chon a caldera around 7,200 feet above sea level, formed by a massive eruption more than a thousand years ago and feel the wind cut across your face. I did just that in June 2017, as one of the few Western journalists to reach Paektus summit from the North Korean side. The trip, sanctioned and closely monitored by Pyongyang, offered rare access and a window into how the regime elevates this mountain into something almost divine. The Paektu bloodline The mountain was the birthplace of Dangun, the mythical founder of the first Korean kingdom, according to North Korean legend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kim Il Sung, North Koreas founder and Kim Jong Uns grandfather, purportedly used the mountain as a hideout when fighting against the Japanese occupation for independence in the 1940s. State media often refers to the eldest Kim in reference to the mountain, using titles like the legendary hero of Paektu. North Korea claims Kim Jong Il, the late leader and father of Kim Jong Un, was born near Paektus summit. Guides showed me a wooden cabin where, they say, snow melted and the sun broke through, flowers bloomed, and a new star appeared in the sky to mark his birth. Theres no historical evidence for this and many scholars believe Kim was likely born in Russia, but the story is told without a hint of doubt throughout North Korea. Paektu isnt just a mountain its a national altar. The mountain has been widely used by the Kim dynasty to showcase the familys own lore and deification. Its peaks have been emblazoned on the countrys national emblem and its name has been lent to everything from rockets to power stations and, occasionally, the country itself. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un rides a horse during snowfall in Mount Paektu in this image released by North Korea's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on October 16, 2019. - KCNA/Reuters North Korean society prizes racial purity and state propaganda glorifies the Kim family for their Paektu bloodline, which is said to be a noble and heroic lineage tied to the ancient legendary kings of the Korean peninsula. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the soul of Koreas revolution, a guide told me, as North Korean pilgrims stood quietly nearby, some in tears, believing they were on hallowed ground. Kim Jong Un has often visited the sacred mountain, usually before major shakeups like the 2013 execution of his uncle and the 2016 nuclear test. In 2018, he brought then-South Korean President Moon Jae-in up to the summit in a rare moment of unity. Moon, who stood at the top clutching Kims hand alongside their wives, called the visit the realization of a dream. I wondered if I was ever going to have a chance (to come here) but my wish has come true, Moon said. For Koreans on both sides of the border, reaching the peak has long been a rite of passage, but access has been closed off to most living in South Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2019, North Korean state media released photographs of Kim riding on a white horse up the sacred mountain on at least two separate occasions amid tensions on the peninsula. Geological significance In its recognition, the UNESCO executive board cited Paektus volcanic legacy, valleys shaped by glacial erosion, and rocky plains as part of its global significance. It also noted the millennial eruption that occurred on Mount Paektu more than a thousand years ago in 946 CE one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in recorded history. Currently, there are more than 200 geoparks in 49 countries, according to the organization. UNESCO Global Geoparks are recognized as single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, the UNESCO board designated the Chinese side of the mountain as a global geopark under its Chinese name, Changbaishan. North Korea sought the UNESCO geopark designation in 2019, a year before China, but an on-site inspection of the site in North Korea was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With the designation, Pyongyang may now try to rebrand Paektu as a geotourism destination promoting its natural wonders as well as Korean mythology. Back in 2017, the journey to Paektu took us through remote farming villages where children ran away from our cameras some likely having never seen a foreigner. In Samjiyon, the closest town, monuments to Kim Il Sung dot the landscape, and buildings bear scars from battles with Japanese occupiers. CNN Senior International Correspondent Will Ripley, Senior Vice President & Managing Editor Ellana Lee, producer Tim Schwarz and photojournalist Justin Robertson (left to right), at the site of Lake Chon atop Mount Paektu, June 2017. - Justin Robertson/CNN Life near Paektu is rural and sparse. But the people we met spoke with quiet pride of their history, their home, and the belief that they live in a place that matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With this UNESCO recognition, Mount Paektu is now not just a national symbol, but recognized as a site of global geological value. Whether that leads to more engagement or remains another tool for Pyongyangs narrative is unclear. For now, the mountain stands, its slopes cloaked in clouds and its stories passed down through generations. And if you ever find yourself at the summit, staring into Lake Chon and breathing in the frigid air, you might understand why so many, North and South, believe it holds the soul of Korea. CNNs Yoonjung Seo and Joshua Berlinger contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Donald Trump must accept a changed reality and recognise North Korea as a nuclear power if the United States wants to resume talks, Kim Jong-uns sister has warned. On Tuesday, Kim Yo-jong said that although the personal relationship between her brother and Mr Trump is not bad, it should not be exploited to discuss denuclearisation. Any attempt to deny the position of the DPRK [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea] as a nuclear weapons state ... will be thoroughly rejected, Ms Kim said in a statement issued by Korean Central News Agency, a state media outlet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Kim, who is often seen as the public face of the regimes diplomatic messaging, added that it is worth taking into account the fact that the year 2025 is neither 2018 nor 2019. During Mr Trumps first term in office, he met Kim Jong-un in person three times, yet talks fell short of an agreement on denuclearisation. Donald Trump did not strike a denuclearisation deal with Kim Jong-un during his first term in office - KCNA/Reuters Instead, North Korea has accelerated its nuclear programme in defiance of international sanctions. It has been said this is justified as a deterrent against perceived threats particularly from South Korea and the US. The state has also grown much closer to Russia and emerged as a key ally of Vladimir Putin in his war on Ukraine. According to the British Ministry of Defence, around 6,000 North Koreans have been killed or wounded while fighting against Ukraine in Russias Kursk region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Kim said any attempt by Washington to use potential talks to discuss denuclearisation would be interpreted as nothing but a mockery, given North Koreas evolving position on the world stage. Her comments appeared to be a response to a report from the South Korean Yonhap News Agency, in which an unnamed White House official said that Mr Trump remains open to engaging with Leader Kim to achieve a fully denuclearised North Korea. It also comes amid overtures from South Koreas new liberal government to improve frayed relations. Since Lee Jae Myung took office in early June, Seoul has stopped anti-Pyongyang loudspeaker broadcasts at the countries shared border, taken steps to ban activists from flying balloons with propaganda leaflets and repatriated North Koreans who had drifted south in wooden boats. But these efforts have so far been rebuffed by the North. On Monday, in Pyongyangs first official statement on the Souths new government, Ms Kim said its blind trust in the countrys alliance with the US and hostility toward the North were no different from its conservative predecessor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, South Koreas Ministry of Unification said it would actively support any resumption of talks between Washington and Pyongyang. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Northern California deputy accused of smuggling cell phones into jail (FOX40.COM) A correctional officer was accused of smuggling contraband cell phones into a jail facility, according to the Yuba County Sheriffs Office. An investigation conducted by the Detectives Division and the Problem-Oriented Policing Unit on July 24 began after it was suggested that unauthorized cell phones were circulating among inmates. Video Above: Property Crime Statistics Two cell phones were found in a housing unit during a search conducted by YCSO personnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement YCSO said Officer Palacios Lugo was suspected of distributing the cell phones due to evidence found. Detectives found three cell phones and over $2,000 in cash during the execution of a search warrant on Lugo and his vehicle at the Jail. I was saddened to learn about this betrayal of trust and disregard for the safety of our staff and those in our care, said Sheriff Anderson. Law Enforcement is a crucial component of our modern society and when situations like this occur it is damaging to the trust that we all work so hard to develop and maintain with our citizens, our staff, and those whom we are sworn to protect. I am proud of the way in which our staff handled this investigation and know the actions of one do not reflect on the hard work of so many men and women who wear our badge. Fortunately, no one was hurt due to this crime, and Im confident that justice will be served. YCSO said Lugo resigned from his employment, and the case remains under active investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. LEWISBURG Cory Leshner walked out of the gates of the Lewisburg Federal Prison in 2019 and the first thing he did after spending 19 months behind a razor-wired fence as an inmate was request a change of clothes. The Northumberland County public defender, who spent more than 570 days in the prison that once held John Gotti, Jimmy Hoffa, Al Capone and several other notorious inmates, said the reason he wanted a fresh set of clothes was to symbolize that he was changing his life after he vowed to become a better person. Leshner, 43, was disbarred from practicing law in 2014 after he pleaded guilty to being part of a cross-country money laundering scheme that involved several high-ranking members of organized crime from the New Jersey and Philadelphia area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leshner said he has no issues discussing his lifes journey because everything is in public documents and he is not ashamed of his past. I never shy away from anything or talking about it, he said. This is my life and my story. To move forward, Leshner said he had to go backward in reclaiming his life as a husband, father and attorney. In late 2013, Leshner went through what he said some of his clients experience. The worst day of my life, he said. This was the day the Department of Justice put out a press release on Leshner saying he pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud FIRSTPLUS Financial Group Inc. (FPFG), a Texas-based financial services company targeted for extortionate takeover and looting by a group led by alleged organized crime family members from the New Jersey and Philadelphia areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leshner, who was 30 at the time, said when he was arrested he faced 25 federal counts but he eventually pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Robert B. Kugler in Camden, N.J., to conspiracy. The agreement was a sentence of five years in prison. Leshner said he knew about the investigation since 2006 when he was a law student and at first he didnt know what he was doing was illegal. But then I did, he said. Leshner said he had just started law school at Widener University and he learned about a search warrant at his former place of work in 2008. At that point Im still in law school and no longer working for the guy, but had been working as a law clerk while contiuning to go to school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he graduated in 2009 and he applied for the bar but didnt get in until 2011. Leshner purchased a small practice in the Harrisburg area and was actively seeking clients but wasnt sleeping well because he said he knew his past was lurking over his shoulder. I knew it was still going on, but I didnt know what was going on, he said. Six years after he first learned of the FBI investigation he was at home with his pregnant wife when he heard a knock on the door at 5 a.m on Nov 1, 2013. It was a grouop of FBI agents and they arrested me, he said. There were a lot of people who could have been charged in this but the people who made the decisions only charged 12 people and I was one of them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leshner said he was transported to Philadelphia where he was handed the 25-count indictment. He said he was then taken to Camden, N.J., where he was brought before a judge and released on bail the same day. Leshner returned home and was still working as an attorney. He was told he did not have to stop practicing until the case was resolved. I was of the position I was going to fight the case, Leshner said. I was a little bit less informed than I should have been but as we went through the process, it became clear to me that while I closed my eyes about what was going on and what I was doing, I knew I absolutely should have known better and I knew I needed to take responsibility for my role. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than two years later, and after he had testified in court about his role in the scheme, he met with federal officials and decided to plead guilty with the expectation he would be incarcerated for five years. He gave up his law license as part of the plea deal and waited for his day in court. He said when the day came to plead he made a request to not report to jail immediately as his wife was expecting to give birth to his second child within weeks. The judge granted the request and ordered him to report to Lewisburg Federal Prison 30 days after the child was born. The was only the beginning of Leshners second chance at life because the same FBI agent who arrested him came to court to watch the proceedings and was called to the stand by the judge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was not scheduled to be there, Leshner said. The agent got on the stand and spoke highly of Leshner and said he felt five years was a long sentence. According to court documents, Kugler questioned the agent who testified Leshner was a special person and he was not sure that five years in prison was necessary. Kugler agreed and told the courtroom that throughout his career he rarely swayed away from deals that were made, but that today was going to be one of those days, according to court documents. Leshner was ordered to report to jail and serve 24 months, a reduction of more than half of the originally agreed-upon sentence. The judge also handed down a fine of more than $12 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leshner said he reported to Lewisburg Federal Penitentiary on Feb. 1, 2017, and when the doors closed behind him, he had no idea what to expect, what to do, or what was going to be waiting for him when he was released. Dont let anyone tell you it isnt that bad, he said. Its jail and its that bad. I saw everything you could think of, and I knew I was going to survive and become a better person, a better husband and a better father. Leshner said the last thing he thought about was his law license. Less than two years later, Leshner was released. When he walked outside, he said he asked for the change of clothes as a way to make sure he started off right by changing everything in his life. Leshner was released to a halfway house for a few days and eventually back to his own home, where he spent the rest of his sentence on supervised release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I lost seven years with everything that went on, and I knew I needed to work hard and make sure I was able to pay the bills for my family, he said. Leshner got a job at a taxicab service and eventually became a banquet server. Leshner said he decided it was time to reapply for his law license, but he knew it was going to be a long road to get it, if at all. I always intended in the back of my mind to reapply, but it is not an easy process, he said. When you are disbarred, it takes a lot to get back and I knew with that in front of me, I needed to show significant rehabilitation, he said. According to the Pennsylvania Disciplinary Board annual report in 2024, 24 attorneys were disbarred and 32 were suspended. Also in 2024, 11 attorneys filed for reinstatement after serving their suspensions, and only four were granted, while two were outright denied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leshner said a person must show they accepted what they did was wrong, take responsibility for and accept the mistakes made, show what was done to overcome it and that you are not a risk moving forward. I made a concerted effort to be a different person way prior to that, he said. I never had any criminal problems growing up, I was afforded all the opportunities and never in trouble as a kid, but didnt take responsibility for myself. If I had just used my head, I wouldnt have been here in the first place. Leshner said for the next few years, he concentrated on being a good dad and husband. My wife and kids stood by me, he said. My parents stood by me. It was important to me to be a good example to my children. One of the main reasons I pleaded guilty was to provide an example of whats right and wrong and show we have an obligation to own our mistakes and if there are consequences of those mistakes then they are ours and no one elses. Leshner said he was not practicing his Jewish faith before incarceration, but during dark days in prison, he met a mentor a weekly visitor to the facility who changed his life. He still speaks to the mentor and practices his faith every day. This helped me to move forward, he said. It helped me to make better decisions that allow me to feel good as a person both ethically and humanly. Leshner said once released he went back to the taxicab company and tried to save money. I had to pay the bills, and I just didnt have the money to reapply for my law license. I scraped and saved and eventually was able to reapply in 2020. I did this not to impress anyone, but to take responsibility for my own life and to be a better human. Leshner reapplied and was denied. In March 2020, just days before the world shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Leshner gave his second attempt at reinstatement in a hearing in Harrisburg that brought several people to testify on his behalf. The board agreed and reinstated Leshner. However, the case went before the state Supreme Court. In December 2020, just days before Christmas Leshner received word the courts upheld his reinstatement. Cory Leshner was, once again, attorney Cory Leshner. I was pretty happy and proud, he said. It wasnt about deserving it, it was about earning it and I never took it for granted because I always just wanted the potential to earn it. I wanted the people who took a chance on me to know it was worth it. Leshner then began taking cases before eventually getting a call from a colleague he knew from Northumberland County in 2022 about an open position. I was asked about becoming a special conflicts attorney, he said. Criminal defense wasnt really my focus and it was a challenge to take on, but once I did I realized that the people I met are folks that needed some kind of understanding. The same kind of understanding that was afforded to me. Leshner, who now serves in the public defenders office, said he takes all of his cases personally. Every day when I wake up, I always thank God for my ability to help people like people helped me, he said. I saw this because I truly mean it. Everyone deserves an advocate, it doesnt matter how heinous the crime, it doesnt matter guilty or not, they deserve an advocate, thats the constitutional system we have. Without someone willing to advocate for them, they are left with nothing, and that leads to bad decisions on bad decisions. Leshner said he doesnt forget his background and what it did to him. Im a huge believer in second chances, he said. I have to make sure I make the most of it to show it makes sense that I got my second chance. I remember I had $400 in my pocket and that was what the rent was. Northumberland County Chief Public Defender Ed Greco said he was proud to have Leshner on his staff. He brings such a unique background and a wealth of knowledge with him. he said. We are glad he is part of the staff and we are glad we get the chance to work with him and hear all the great things he brings to the table daily. Leshner said, although he lives in Harrisburg, his heart is in Northumberland County. I absolutely love it there, he said. I love the people I meet, the people I work with, the courts and everyone I am working for or against, he said. I love the community and the people I serve. I again say this because I truly mean it. I meet people on their worst day, and I dont meet them in the best light. I see there is a wholesomeness to Northumberland County you dont find everywhere. I have been in Harrisburg a long time and love it there, but I never expected the joy of coming up to Northumberland County and I look forward to it every time. Leshner said he still talks to the FBI agent who arrested him to this day and that he thanks him for saving his life and making him a better person. I say this, because I mean it, he said. For me, its not about nightmares about the situation but its about lessons. I had a hard time sleeping until I pleaded and was sentenced. I was more nervous for my wife and kids than myself. Ever since I have been home, I do everything possible to make the right decisions and choices for myself and my family and clients and now I sleep like a baby. Leshner said his story is told as a way to inform people their lives can change. I am speaking from the heart when I say I am grateful for every opportunity given to me, he said. I have had luck, but I worked hard and earned a lot and I made the most of it. The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here. In the summer of 2018, I found myself enraptured by the television show Pose, a first-of-its-kind drama that featured a cast of Black and brown transgender performers. Much of the press around the seriesnearly all of it, actuallyhighlighted this fact, and I approached the show with some trepidation, expecting it to feature gauzy, conventional storylines in an attempt to attract a mainstream audience. Indeed, amid its gritty sequences of emotional turmoil was a focus on the most conventional television theme of allthe obligations and joys of family life. But this turned out to be Poses most interesting asset, because what distinguished its kitchen-table scenes from others, and its family from my own, was that each member had chosen to be there. Pose presents the concept of chosen family as both a necessary lifeline for trans people and an enthralling and recurrent act of love. These characters, and the real people whose lives served as inspiration for them, choose one another continually, though their bonds are often not recognized by external authorities. Those of us seeking to build meaningful connections to people with whom we share little but our common humanity might have something to learn from them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I thought of Pose a great deal while reading Necessary Fiction, the Nigerian writer Eloghosa Osundes second novel. The book follows a group of queer Nigerian characters who fit awkwardly within their biological communities and who, as a result, must form new ones. Families are the driving force of this novel, and Osunde depicts them in various forms: families falling apart as they bicker and grow in different directions, families that have all but ceased to function, and newly formed families, fragile and delicately wrought. Osundes characters pursue degrees and jobs, and they seek self-actualization, but their understanding of life is filtered almost entirely through their closest relationships. Osunde has published this novel amid a flood of LGBTQ literature from Africa, and specifically Nigeria, that is perhaps a reaction to the sorry state of gay rights across the continent. Yet Necessary Fiction is singular because it subtly transposes an idea that recurs in queer mediathat families are both essential and malleableto a broader tapestry of human lives, the billions of us around the globe who find ourselves isolated despite our reliance on tools that promise connection. By unbinding family from biological duty, the novel imagines connection as an act of sustained intention, not inherited obligation. It offers not only a story about queer life in Nigeria, but also a vision of how kinship might evolve for everyone in a world of increasing mobility, urbanization, and atomization. [Read: What to read when you want to reimagine family] Necessary Fiction includes a sprawling cast of characters whose connections vary in depth and intensityOsunde helpfully provides a list at the beginning of the bookand throughout the novel we meet small clusters of them, observing as they attract or repel one another. Yet the most vital and arresting moment occurs 19 pages in, well before Osunde has formally introduced most of the novels players. In a chapter titled Truth Circle, a group of queer friends discuss their lives, relationships, and regrets in a 10-page scene that unfolds entirely in dialogue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They remember the tragic 2020 Lekki massacre in Lagos State, when soldiers opened fire on unarmed protesters; they share stories of estrangement from their direct kin; they reflect on the overwhelming burden of projecting strength even as they unravel internally; they explore the shifting definitions of what it means to be normal. Threaded through all this heaviness, however, is a palpable joy, a kind of luminous gratitude for having found one another, despite their presence in a country that routinely shuns them. One character, reflecting on the recent loss of a loved one, says that they also feel thanks, because who wouldnt have reasons to, with people like you as fam? You guys are that for me. The truth circle in this scene is a space of confession and free expression, but it is also a crucible in which the characters create and affirm their bonds to one another. Over the course of these pages, the reader begins to discern the outlines of their relationships through hints about how they came to know and care for one another. But most important, Osunde introduces them immediately as a family, inviting readers to think of people they dont yet know as parts of a coherent whole, one they have forged in order to survive. Osunde also reminds the reader how deeply vulnerable, and deeply restorative, conversations among family members can be when theyre sustained through loyalty and mutual respect. Though grounded in queer experience, the scenes emotional resonance extends beyond it. Osunde seems to be proposing a model of kinship that could serve anyone navigating alienation or rupture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the book progresses, we learn more about the people who were present at the truth circle, and eventually one character, a DJ named May, takes center stage. Osunde describes May as a free person, someone even rebels look up to and say, Wow, youre so brave. She has a tense relationship with her father, a man of unending charisma and gaslighting, and recognizes that something about her mother was different, that she had an askewness to her that her friends mothers did not have. One point of friction between mother and daughter is Mays gender identity; as May grows older, her mother begins to understand that May was not the daughter she was raising. May was something else beyond thatsomething more manly than a daughter, more feminine than a sonan inbetweener. [Read: A redacted past slowly emerges] One day May calls home and learns that her mother is in the hospital after her father insisted on yet another psychiatric hold. May falls into despair and confides in her roommates, twins who were present at the truth circle. She confesses that she longs for a motherly presence, and the twins introduce her to their aunt, who goes by Aunty G (we eventually learn the G stands for Gladness). What follows is one of the most quietly transformative relationships in the book. May eventually tells Aunty G about her love life, something she never felt comfortable doing with her own mother. Osunde captures the poignancy of this connection: It wasnt that Aunty G was a replacement mother or anything. Aunty G was just the elder of her dreams, someone who had seen enough life to not be fazed by her choices. May thought often about what a difference it would have made if she was known (or loved) by a woman like Gladness when she was stumbling around in the dark. And now here she was. Through the twins intervention, May gains the mother figure she was looking for, someone who offers the kind of counsel her own parents never could. Osundes depiction of this bondits gradual deepening, its subtle healingreinforces the novels central insight: that family is not a fixed inheritance but an evolving architecture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent years, there has been much talk about people spending more and more time alone. According to a 2023 analysis by the U.S. Surgeon General, half of U.S. adults report experiencing loneliness. Medical professionals and social scientists have proposed a few potential causes, including the disappearance of third places and the increasing ubiquity of the internet and social media, which may facilitate connections, but at the expense of meaningfuland essentialin-person interactions. In Necessary Fiction and other stories revolving around LGBTQ lives, we can glimpse the kind of community the internet once promised. No matter how advanced our technology becomes, it is not a replacement for the rituals that make us human, such as gathering around a dinner table after a long day apart, and telling honest and vulnerable stories as your family sits close, listens, and remains. Article originally published at The Atlantic The NSAs top lawyer was removed from her role Friday, according to two people with direct knowledge of the move, just days after she came under fire in a conservative media outlet. The removal of April Doss as general counsel at the powerful spy agency is the latest sign that the Trump administration is bent on ensuring officials across the sprawling U.S. intelligence community are sufficiently loyal to its agenda. It follows the publication of an investigation last week from the Daily Wire that characterized Doss as a transparently partisan activist, and as Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has ramped up her attacks on what Trump officials allege is rampant left-wing bias in the country's spy ranks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Daily Wires reporting gained significant traction on X, and was retweeted at one point by Laura Loomer, the right-wing activist. Doss, who has been in the position since 2022, was offered a separate role in the Pentagon, said the two people, though it is not clear if she intends to take it. Both were granted anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly on the move. Spokespeople for the NSA and the Pentagon did not immediately reply to requests for comment on Dosss removal, though her bio page on the NSAs website has been taken down. Doss did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Loomer also did not respond to a request for comment. The New York Times first reported on Dosss removal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The general counsel is a career civil servant position at the NSA, an agency whose vast surveillance powers over foreign mobile and internet data pose vexing civil liberties issues for Americans. Doss held legal posts at NSA between 2003 and 2016, according to her LinkedIn profile. She then moved to the Senate Intelligence Committee, where she worked as the minority counsel for Democrats during the bipartisan investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election. She held positions in the private sector and academia before returning to the NSA as the agencys top lawyer. Dosss removal is not the only high-profile ouster at the signals intelligence agency that has been tied to pressure from right-wing activists. In April, President Donald Trump fired the top two officials at the NSA without explanation, shortly after an Oval Office meeting with Loomer. A nurse has denied waging a "vindictive campaign" against a trans doctor, a tribunal has heard. Sandie Peggie said comments regarding Dr Beth Upton - including asking for pictures of "the weirdo" on a night out - were made as dark humour. The nurse was suspended by NHS Fife in January 2024 following a row with Dr Upton about the doctor being allowed in a women's changing room at the Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Peggie was giving evidence for the second time at the tribunal, which she brought against NHS Fife and Dr Upton, citing the Equality Act 2010. Ms Peggie told the tribunal she harboured no bad feelings towards trans people in general, but did not believe "men should be in women's changing areas". She admitted some remarks made about Dr Upton in a WhatsApp chat were derogatory and demeaning, but added they were only made between a small group of friends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked if she been taking part in a "vindictive campaign" or a "hate campaign" against the doctor, Ms Peggie said this was not true. The nurse, who worked for 30 years with NHS Fife, also said a number of racist jokes in a WhatsApp chat regarding flooding in Pakistan that killed nearly 2,000 people in 2022 was humour, intended to try and shock people. When asked about requesting a picture of Dr Upton from a friend, where she used the term "weirdo", Ms Peggie said there had been chat throughout the department about "how weird" Dr Upton looked. She said the doctor had looked like "a man in a dress" on a work night out and that she "used weirdo as it was the word that was circulating at the time" in the department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, she later said she did not regularly use weirdo as a description, but would use the word strange instead. Timeline of the Sandie Peggie tribunal The nurse said more than a dozen people working for NHS Fife were in agreement with her regarding Dr Upton being allowed into women's changing rooms, more than she had initially named when giving evidence in February. She said she had not mentioned these members of staff - who included a consultant and receptionists - due to the "very toxic" situation within NHS Fife. She said: "Since this happened, and the way I was treated, I didn't want anyone else to be put in the same predicament." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr Upton and NHS Fife's lawyer, Jane Russell KC, quizzed Ms Peggie about a text message in January 2024 where she said "the only way I can get round this is to say we're not aware of protocols" and mentioned that "trans have all the rights". Ms Peggie denied this was in regards to creating an argument against Dr Upton following the suspension being imposed. She was also asked about looking up policies related to menstrual health in the workplace, having previously told the tribunal she had a "menstrual flood" that forced her to go to the changing rooms during her work shift on Christmas Eve 2023. Ms Russell asked if this was an excuse to disguise a deliberate attempt to encounter Dr Upton, which Ms Peggie denied. Sandie Peggie was greeted by former SNP MP Joanna Cherry before giving evidence [BBC] The tribunal also heard there had been discussion in Ms Peggie's workplace chat with colleagues about Dr Upton "causing problems" in the past regarding pronouns at previous jobs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One person in the chat was alleged to have claimed colleagues were "walking on eggshells" when working alongside Dr Upton. Ms Peggie was also asked about racial comments and jokes made in the past, which had been heavily discussed during the previous day's testimony. She denied making a remark about wanting to post bacon through the letterbox of a nearby mosque, attributing the comment to a paramedic. Two colleagues who gave evidence on Monday said that Ms Peggie made the remark during a lunch with friends. However, Ms Peggie admitted she had a fear of the mosque being built in Kirkcaldy, due to her having concerns about Sharia Law being introduced in the UK. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said did not dislike all Muslims, and that her beliefs did not mean she would ever treat patients differently. She added that she had taken jokes about floods in Pakistan from a Facebook page and while they were "distasteful", it was to "sent in dark humour" to friends. The nurse said she had used derogatory terms to describe people from Pakistan and China because these were common terms when she was growing up. She said people of those ethnicities that she knew were not offended when the terms had been used. Ms Peggie was greeted on arrival at the tribunal by Joanna Cherry, the former SNP MP for Edinburgh South West. The tribunal has finished witness evidence and will next consider written submissions on Wednesday, with oral submissions to be heard at the start of September. New York Attorney General Letitia James is putting up a fight against the National Retail Federation (NRF). James filed a motion to dismiss the NRFs algorithmic pricing lawsuit against her and the state on Monday, alongside a 21-page memorandum in support of the motion. Early this month, the NRF alleged in a complaint that New Yorks Algorithmic Pricing Disclosure Act, which was set to be enforced as of July 8, was unconstitutional because it violated the First Amendment and the Fourteenth Amendment. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats because the law would require brands and retailers selling to New York residents to add a disclosure reading, This price was set by an algorithm using your personal data to products that leverage information like location or browser history. The NRF asked a judge to issue a preliminary and permanent injunction against the law in its complaint. The judge has not acted on the request for a preliminary injunction, but In mid-July, James filed a stay of enforcement, agreeing not to enforceor retroactively enforcethe law until 30 days after the court has ruled on that request. The attorney general has now asked a judge to toss the case, alleging that the NRF did not go far enough to back up its claims about unconstitutionality. James relies on whats called the Zauderer precedent throughout her argument. That case effectively set the precedent that the government can mandate that companies include purely factual and uncontroversial disclosures about products without violating the First Amendment, if the requirement is directly of interest to the state in its work to protect consumers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its initial complaint, the NRF alleges that Zauderer does not apply to the algorithmic pricing law because it is neither purely factual nor uncontroversial. It also notes that, to pass the Zauderer review, required disclosures must be justified and not unduly burdensome, which it alleges New Yorks algorithmic disclosures are not. James said that the NRFs threadbare allegations dont go nearly far enough to prove that the law would be unduly burdensome to affected retailers. Plaintiffmerely alleges that [the law] does not align with its members preferred brand identity and corporate messaging. But this self-serving complaint is wholly immaterial under Zauderer, James writes in the memorandum. In its complaint, the NRF alleged that the law could mislead consumers, who would naturally but falsely conclude that retailers are using customer information to increase prices. James said in the memorandum supporting the motion to dismiss that the trade group didnt provide factual evidence to support that claim, instead relying on speculation about what a consumer might do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [The NRF] cannot utilize the First Amendment to wield a veto over [the law] on the basis that the disclosure contradicts corporate messaging, James wrote, later adding her belief that the NRFs conclusory assertion regarding what it believes consumers will naturally infer from [the law] is devoid of sufficient factual matter required by case law precedent. Whats more, she argued, the trade groups members still retain the ability to convey additional information to customers regarding their use of algorithmic pricing. That is to say that, while brands and retailers may be required to add the disclosure, its at their discretion how they otherwise explain algorithmic pricing to consumers. That brands and retailers reserve that right, James said, makes the NRFs complaint all the more baseless. The NRF in its complaint said that because the disclosureand any supplemental explanation of itwould require them to surrender a significant amount of their members on-site pixel space, which provides a level of burden to those required to execute on the laws provisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement James said the obligation brands and retailers would be subject to under the new law dont infringe on NRF members First Amendment rights. The acts definition of clear and conspicuous disclosure requires that entities use lettering and wording that is easily visible and understandable to the average consumer, James wrote. The complaint fails to allege any facts plausibly showing that this modest requirement would somehow displace retailers online content. Since the Zauderer precedent also relies on the regulations in question being relevant to states interest in protecting consumers, James also stated that the law satisfies the Zauderer review because the legislature that passed it relied on a Federal Trade Commission report that they said emphasized that algorithmic pricing can lead to consumers being charged different prices for the same products and services and potentially being subjected to discriminatory pricing. These considerations, James contended, mean that the law is squarely related to New Yorks interest in protecting its consumers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement James memorandum is rife with other examples in which states have been allowed to require companies to provide disclosures about products or services in varying industriesincluding labeling mandates for mercury lamps in Vermont and a New York City regulation that required calories to be displayed to diners at certain establishments. James new motion asks that the judge dismiss the NRFs complaint with prejudicewhich means that the trade group could not refile because the courts decision would be final. A spokesperson for the NRF declined to comment. Democratic state lawmakers are pushing a plan that could allow them to redraw New Yorks congressional districts, but any change would almost certainly not take place before the forthcoming midterm elections. As Texas and other red states consider rejiggering their maps to benefit Republicans, Assemblyman Micah Lasher (D-Manhattan) and Sen. Mike Gianaris (D-Queens) announced plans to amend New Yorks constitution to potentially permit redistricting more often than once a decade. Republicans in TX and elsewhere are taking us into a new era of continuous, partisan redistricting, Lasher tweeted. (Its) time we show up to the fight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If red states are intent on corrupting the redistricting process, New York will respond, added Gianaris. Critically, any such amendment would have to be passed in two consecutive sessions of the state legislature so the plan has no chance of being enacted until after 2026. New York Democrats now hold a 19-7 edge in the House congressionial delegation. They hope to hold all their seats in the midterms and are aiming to flip the evenly matched Westchester County-based battleground district held by Republican Rep. Mike Lawler. But any further gains would likely depend on dramatically redrawing district lines, like adding deep-blue parts of Brooklyn to Rep. Nicole Malliotakis Staten Island-based district and rejiggering things on Long Island and upstate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Hochul and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, the House minority leader who would become Speaker if Democrats flip the House in 2026, have both said theyre open to exploring options for a redraw. New Yorks constitution calls for redistricting only once a decade. Under the current rules, the only way to get around and potentially redraw the map sooner would be if a court orders a new map, perhaps in response to a new lawsuit claiming the current map is illegal, which seems far-fetched. Republicans hope to rework the Texas map now and implement the changes in time to pick up at least five Democratic held seats in 2026. They want to do the same thing to pick up a couple of seats in Ohio and potentially one in Missouri. President Trump and his Republican allies hope those moves, which Democrats call partisan dirty tricks, will be enough to allow them to keep control of the House of Representatives and withstand what is widely expected to be a blue-leaning political environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Republicans succeed in further gutting the Voting Rights Act, they might be able to scrap several Black-held Democratic seats in the deep South, a move that would further exacerbate the nations bitter partisan and racial divide in future electoral cycles. Aside from New York, Democrats in California, Illinois and New Jersey are mulling the possibility of redrawing their congressional districts to counter what they call Trumps power grab in red states. But most of the blue states have similar rules making it tougher for the party in power to gerrymander the seats to their advantage. (Carolyn Kaster/AP) For those of us who were on the front lines, the effort that went into the 2024 elections still resonates, as does the satisfaction of returning Donald Trump to the White House and electing pro-gun majorities to the U.S. House and Senate. The relentless, "whole-of-government" assault the Biden-Harris administration had perpetrated on the Second Amendment was over. There was, for a moment, space to breathe. But as the late lawman, firearm instructor and friend of the NRA James Yeager used to preach, stillness in a fight is fatal. You must "get off the X" and keep moving to the next objective. And the fight over the right to keep and bear arms never ends. Fortunately, we are now moving forward. Part of that is undoing the damage caused by the prior administration and its collaborators. It also means enacting a positive, pro-gun agenda. This month, I can report progress on both fronts. Make no mistakeour margins in Congress are narrow, and the energy and fearlessness of the Trump administration only serve to underscore the plodding, cautious nature of Capitol Hill. Our friends currently in the executive branch are as true as we've seen, but the president has only one term left to solidify his America First agenda in as many critical areas as possible. The Board of Elections certified the results of a Republican primary for a Brooklyn-based City Council seat Tuesday even as allegations of voter fraud continued to loom over the contest infuriating the Democratic candidate in the race who believes matters should be put on hold until the irregularities can be investigated. Kayla Santosuosso, who won last months Democratic primary for the 47th Council District, told the Daily News she has this week pleaded with the Board of Elections to delay certifying the results of the GOP primary in the 47th because of the voter fraud suspicions. Santosuossos push comes after the board last week announced it had discovered 22 potentially fraudulent ballots cast in the GOP primary a finding that couldve been significant as early returns showed ardent pro-Trump candidate George Sarantopoulos leading the race by just a handful of votes over Richie Barsamian, the Brooklyn Republican Partys chairman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The board tossed those 22 votes, but also revealed last week it would not invalidate at least two other ballots cast in the names of individuals who are dead, though it did say it referred those findings to the Brooklyn district attorneys office, which has launched an investigation. Despite the ballot irregularities and Santosuossos request for a pause, the BOEs commissioners unanimously certified the 47th GOP primary results in a board meeting Tuesday afternoon, with Sarantopoulos ultimately defeating Barsamian by just 16 ballots. Vinny Ignizio, the BOEs deputy executive director, said the board went ahead with certification because it completed a comprehensive and transparent review of all valid ballots, including a full hand count. The outcome of the race has remained consistent at every stage. In accordance with New York State Election Law, all valid votes have been properly counted, Ignizio said. Our responsibility now is to certify the results and proceed with preparations for the general election in November. Any specific allegations of fraud will be handled appropriately by the district attorneys office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Santosuosso, voicing concern there could be more fraudulent ballots in the mix that havent been detected yet, blasted the boards decision. The Board of Elections is certifying an election that includes ballots from dead people, she said. If Republicans actually believe their own hype about election integrity, theyd be standing with me demanding a real investigation before this election is certified. The campaigns of Sarantopoulos and Barsamian did not immediately return requests for comment. The 47th Council District, which is currently represented by term-limited Councilman Justin Brannan, spans Bay Ridge, Coney Island and some other neighboring southern Brooklyn areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district is expected to be one of the most competitive Council contests in Novembers general election, with many southern Brooklyn neighborhoods trending more conservative in recent years. Santosuosso is the chief counsel in Brannans government office and has his backing in her bid to succeed him. (NewsNation) The New York City police officer killed in a shooting in Midtown Manhattan on Monday was described as a hero. Officer Didarul Islam, 36, was a veteran of the NYPD for more than three years. Pure evil came to the heart of our city and struck innocent people, and one of our police officers who were protecting those people, said Patrick Hendry, president of the Police Benevolent Association of the City of New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We lost four people tonight, and our hero brother who gave his life for this city. Theres great fear on part of many people in NYC: Bill OReilly Hendry called Didarul a hardworking police officer who was proud to put on the uniform and shield of an NYPD officer. Every day he went out and did his job, Hendry added. And he went out every single day to provide for his family, whether it was overtime or whatever he had to do to provide for his family. That is what he did. Didarul, an immigrant from Bangladesh, was said to love New York City and was a man of faith trying to live out his life as a godly person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was doing what he does best, and all members of the police department carry out, said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. He was saving lives. He was protecting New Yorkers. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch added that Didarul was married with two young boys, and left a wife who was eight months pregnant. He was doing the job that we asked him to do, Tisch said. He put himself in harms way. He paid the ultimate sacrifice. Shot in cold blood, wearing a uniform that stood for the promise he made to this city. He died as he lived, a hero. Cincinnati brawl due to mismangement: JD Vances brother Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shane Tamura, of Nevada, was identified as the shooter. Police said Tamura shot himself in the chest in the hallway of the 33rd floor of 345 Park Avenue after shooting five people, four of them fatally. Officers found identification on Tamuras body, including a concealed carry permit from Las Vegas. Police believe Tamura acted alone and that there is no ongoing threat. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. Zohran Mamdani, Curtis Sliwa and Andrew Cuomo all moved to comment law enforcement after at least two people, including an off-duty New York City police officer, were shot and killed in the lobby of a major Manhattan office building. The three New York City mayoral candidates all condemned the shooting, which took place Monday night in a building that houses the offices of Blackstone, Deutsche Bank and JP Morgan. The shooter, who is believed to have acted alone, also fatally shot himself. Im heartbroken to learn of the horrific shooting in midtown and I am holding the victims, their families, and the NYPD officer in critical condition in my thoughts, Mamdani, the Democratic frontrunner, wrote on X. Grateful for all of our first responders on the ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Eric Adams, who is running for re-election, said he had been briefed on the situation and appeared on the scene in a video posted to social media, telling occupants of the building to remain inside as law enforcement conducted a search. He also said multiple people had been injured. Cuomo, who is running on a third-party ballot line, said he was horrified by the shooting. Im grateful for the courage of our NYPD and first responders, and my prayers are with the victims and their families, he wrote on X. Sliwa, the Republican nominee for a second cycle in a row, said he was disturbed by the shootings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grateful to our first responders who run toward danger to keep us safe, he wrote on X. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Democratic nominee for mayor Zohran Mamdani addressed the mass shooting at a Park Avenue office building while at his familys private compound in Uganda, where he is celebrating his wedding. Im heartbroken to learn of the horrific shooting in midtown and I am holding the victims, their families, and the NYPD officer in critical condition in my thoughts, Mamdani wrote in a post to X. Im heartbroken to learn of the horrific shooting in midtown and I am holding the victims, their families, and the NYPD officer in critical condition in my thoughts. Grateful for all of our first responders on the ground. https://t.co/ixEeqnPdD5 Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) July 29, 2025 Grateful for all of our first responders on the ground, he concluded. Zohran Mamdani addressed the mass shooting at a Park Avenue office building while at his familys private compound in Uganda. Getty Images Mamdani is in Uganda celebrating his nuptials at a heavily guarded private compound in the wealthy Buziga Hill area outside the capital city, Kampala. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said four people were shot dead including married 36-year-old police officer Didarul Islam when maniac Shane Tamura barged into the 44-story building in Midtown with an assault rifle around 6:30 p.m. A fifth person was also shot and injured. And four more sustained minor injuries while trying to flee, cops said. Suspected mass shooter Shane Tamura in high school. DailyNews PrepSports Police and others gather at a crime scene in Midtown Manhattan after people, including a police officer, were shot inside an office building on July 28, 2025, in New York City. Getty Images Tamura, 27, of Nevada, shot himself in the chest and was found dead on the 33rd floor. NEW YORK Didarul Islam, the NYPD officer killed by a rampaging gunman in a mass shooting in a Park Avenue skyscraper, was a Bangladeshi immigrant who joined the force to leave behind a legacy his family could be proud of, mourners said Tuesday. Islam, 36, a father of two with a baby on the way, was one of four people gunned down by Shane Tamura inside the Midtown high-rise Monday evening. He always wanted to be a cop, his brother-in-law, Jamil Rahman, told the Daily News Monday night. He was a hard-working family man, Rahman said. Everybody is shocked and terribly saddened at the same time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Islam was working a second job as a security guard when Tamura stormed inside the building at 51st Street with an M-4 assault rifle about 6:30 p.m. and started firing. Tamura killed three others and wounded a fourth person before getting lost in the building and taking his own life, officials said. As part of a program with the department, Islam was wearing his NYPD uniform while working off-duty, officials said. At the time of his death, he was assigned to the 47th Precinct in the Bronx. Islam has been a police officer since 2021. In his five year career, he racked up 26 felony arrests and 45 misdemeanor arrests, according to his NYPD record. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a sad day for not only our members, but for the #NYPD and #NYC, the NYPD Muslim Officers Society said on Facebook. We lost one of the finest today to a senseless act of violence. Mayor Eric Adams called Islam a true blue New Yorker. On Tuesday, Adams ordered all the flags on city buildings to be lowered to half-staff in the officers honor. Islam was Tamuras first target, Tisch said. He died at New York-Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell. He was doing the job that we asked him to do, Tisch said. He put himself in harms way. He made the ultimate sacrifice, shot in cold blood, wearing a uniform that stood for the promise that he made to this city. He died as he lived, a hero. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Assemblyman and mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani said Islam lived in the Parkchester section of the Bronx with his wife, children and elderly parents. When he joined the police department, his mother asked him why he would pursue such a dangerous job. He told her it was to leave behind a legacy that his family could be proud of, Mamdani said. He has done that, and more. I pray for him, his family, and honor the legacy of service and sacrifice he leaves behind. Islams friend Marjanul Karim, 31, told The News, that hed worked as a peace officer at middle schools but wanted to join the NYPD. He wanted to support his family and he fell in love with law enforcement. He was a selfless individual, Karim said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This house he bought while providing for his elderly parents in Bangladesh, Karim said. He was a stand up guy. It only made sense for someone like him to join the police force. He told my mom, You have to die one way or another,' Karim added. He died a hero. _________ An Orange County father of three U.S. Marines has spoken out publicly for the first time since his release from federal immigration custody, sharing not only his own story but also the voices of the fellow detainees he shared a cell with. Narciso Barranco, a landscaper from Tustin, was detained last month by masked Customs and Border Protection agents while working outside an IHOP restaurant in Santa Ana. The arrest, which involved agents striking and subduing him before forcing him into an unmarked SUV, was captured on video and widely shared online, sparking national attention and more local protests. Federal officials say Barranco, who is undocumented, assaulted agents with a weed trimmer during the arrest. A brief video released by the Department of Homeland Security shows Barranco running and swinging the tool overhead as agents deploy pepper spray. However, his family disputes the allegation, and Barranco has not been charged with any crime. His attorney says he was detained solely due to his immigration status. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His son, 25-year-old Alejandro Barranco, previously told KTLA he believes his father was racially profiled. They probably assumed because he was working on the landscaping, he had no documentation, he said. Barrancos family says he crossed the U.S. border without documentation about 30 years ago and has lived in California ever since, raising three sons who have all served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Two are currently enlisted. He has no criminal record. A landscaper is seen being physically subdued by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Santa Ana on June 2025. (@santaanaproblems on Instagram) A landscaper is seen being physically subdued by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Santa Ana on June 2025. (@santaanaproblems on Instagram) A landscaper is seen being physically subdued by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Santa Ana on June 2025. (@santaanaproblems on Instagram) Now out on bond, Barranco appeared outside the old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana on Friday, where he spoke through his attorney and interpreter, Lisa Ramirez, during a public event with supporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On behalf of my former cellmates at Adelanto including Emilio Martinez, Lazaro Loya, Edgar, Leonidas, and so many others I want to say to their families: they have faith, they miss you deeply, and even in a place like that, hope is still alive, Barranco said. Ramirez told KTLA that if she had been involved in the case earlier, she could have helped Barranco apply for legal residency through a federal program known as parole in place, which provides a path to permanent residency for undocumented immediate family members of U.S. military service members. He has zero criminal history. He doesnt even have a moving violation on his record, Ramirez said. Hes married to a U.S. citizen. He has three U.S. citizen Marine sons. So under the statute, he clearly qualifies for both the parole in place and to be able to apply for permanent residency. The heartbreaking reality and I see this in so many cases is that people actually do qualify to legalize their status, and they either dont know it or theyve been victims of immigration fraud, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barrancos arrest drew criticism from Rep. Lou Correa, who represents the Santa Ana area in Congress. We cannot have federal agents inciting violence in our streets and attacking innocent parents, Correa said in a statement. Clearly, we need immigration reform especially for people like Mr. Barranco, who have lived in this country for 25 to 30 years and raised his sons to put their lives on the line to defend the United States. Barrancos next immigration court hearing is scheduled for August. His attorney says she plans to pursue legal residency for him through the parole in place program. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Health officials are advising the public to avoid swimming, surfing, or playing in the ocean at multiple Los Angeles County beaches due to elevated bacteria levels that exceed state health standards. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued warnings for the following locations: 100 yards up and down the coast from the lagoon at Topanga Canyon Beach in Malibu 100 yards up and down the coast from the public access steps at Marie Canyon Storm Drain at Puerco Beach The entire swim area at Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey 100 yards up and down the coast from the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica 100 yards up and down the coast from the Castlerock Storm Drain at Topanga County Beach Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, there is positive news. The department lifted a previous warning for Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro after water quality test results showed improvement. For the latest updates on beach conditions, residents can call the 24-hour beach advisory hotline at (800) 525-5662 or visit PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/beach. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. As concerns about an influx of invasive carp appearing in the Great Lakes grew earlier this year, The Conversation reported that government officials teamed up to ensure the Great Lakes would remain free of this fish species. What's happening? Though invasive carp from Asia were intentionally introduced in the United States in the Southeast, the species escaped from the area they were meant to be in sometime in the 1990s and made their way up the Mississippi River System. Part of that river system includes the Illinois River, which connects to the Great Lakes. As these invasive carp eat up to 40% of their body weight daily and breed quickly, having them enter the Great Lakes would be disastrous for the ecosystem and those relying on fishing in the area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Invasive carp aren't suitable for eating, but they could wipe out the fish in the Great Lakes that fishermen catch for food. They can also make it difficult to navigate boats due to their propensity to jump 10 feet in the air when startled. To prevent this from occurring, government officials from Illinois and Michigan are collaborating to modify the Brandon Road Lock and Dam, aiming to block invasive carp from entering the Great Lakes. While Congress authorized funds for this project in 2020 and 2022, President Trump's day-one freeze on federal funding put the project on hold. However, Governors JB Pritzker and Gretchen Whitmer approached the administration, each in their own way, to convince it to release the funding needed to complete the project. As a result, the administration ultimately released the funding in May. Why are invasive species concerning? Invasive species, like the carp, can create widespread problems when introduced into new ecosystems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The main concern for the Great Lakes region was how much the carp consume and how quickly they proliferate. It wouldn't take long for this invasive species to outcompete native fish species for food and other vital resources, and there were concerns the carp would eat other fish, as well. Between taking up all available resources and introducing new diseases into local wildlife populations, invasive species can also destroy native ecosystems, create problems with water quality, and alter the soil chemistry of nearby banks. As such, it's vital to prioritize and protect native species, thus limiting the spread of disease, conserving natural resources, and protecting food supplies. What's being done to protect the Great Lakes? Since the Trump administration released the federal funding, the modifications to the Brandon Road Lock and Dam are back on track, with Gov. Pritzker authorizing Illinois to sign a land-purchase agreement that it had put on pause during the funding freeze. As such, construction can begin on the site to complete the modifications. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) Nashville officials are investigating reports of a suspicious package at the Tennessee Tower. MARCH | Law enforcement investigating firearm brandishing incident outside Tennessee Tower Officers with the Metro Nashville Police Department who responded to the scene News 2 that the report of a suspicious package came in shortly before noon Tuesday. (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Source: WKRN) Rosa L. Parks Boulevard is closed between Union Street and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Drivers should seek alternate routes while the scene is still under investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News 2 has sent a crew to the scene and reached out to the Nashville Fire Department for more information. Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox. Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee. This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Officials in Maryland are once again employing a mid-season closure for recreational fishing of one of the most popular species. The Southern Maryland Chronicle reported that the Maryland Department of Natural Resources has imposed a temporary ban on fishing of the Chesapeake Bay striped bass for the sixth year running. The restriction comes amid peak temperatures, which increase the fatality rate of bass that are caught and released in the bay. The pause will last from July 16 to July 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During approved seasons, anglers are permitted to keep one bass per day; additional catches must be released. Even when the greatest care is taken by anglers, some released fish will still perish. During the closures, anglers are encouraged to target invasive aquatic species, such as the blue catfish and snakehead. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration describes the blue catfish as "invasive and delicious." These aggressive hunters have proved to be far more tolerant of saltwater than anticipated and have caused immense harm to local species. Catching and eating invasive species is a tried-and-true method used in many locales. The Chesapeake Bay striped bass, also known as rockfish, is a prized catch for recreational and commercial fishers. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation notes they can reach lengths of up to 5 feet and live for up to 30 years. As the top predators in the bay, they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the area's food web. Their numbers fell sharply in the 1970s and '80s because of overfishing, but they rebounded to historical levels thanks to conservation efforts. However, they are under threat again due to declining food supplies (especially low numbers of menhaden), low oxygen levels, and disruptions to breeding because of rising ocean temperatures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fishing bans offer a respite to marine life in overfished waters, but they also favor fishing communities by improving catch rates in the long run. By decisive local action, state officials are helping to ensure the rockfish can be enjoyed by generations of sport fishers to come. Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. New York City is facing compounded weather risks this week as intense heat and wildfire smoke pose health risks to the most populous city in the U.S. The residents of New York City were among the more than 132 million people in the country experiencing what the National Weather Service calls a "major HeatRisk," level 3 out of 4. The NWS and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention created the experimental HeatRisk tool to help assess possible health risks tied to extreme heat and humidity. A heat advisory is in effect for the city through Wednesday evening as torrid temperatures and high humidity are expected to make it feel like the upper 90s to lower 100s at times, but the concerns rose even higher for those in the Greater New York City area and broader Northeast with low air quality from wildfire smoke. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Center reports 3,515 wildfires have charred more than 15 million acres so far this year. The area of the country that has been burned is larger than the combined areas of Maryland and Hawaii. Canada is currently battling nearly 600 active fires. The jet stream, the strongest winds aloft that steer weather systems, is directing smoke from fires in both central Canada and the Rockies in the U.S. toward the Northeast. Air quality in New York City has improved slightly since Sunday, following a weekend marked by hazy skies and poor air quality. The city's air quality was in the moderate range on Monday. "If you are unusually sensitive to particle pollution, consider reducing your activity level or shorten the amount of time you are active outdoors," advises the Environmental Protection Agency. "While it may improve a little bit later on today or tonight, I think the air quality could go back down again beginning Tuesday and perhaps into Wednesday," Tom Kines, senior meteorologist with AccuWeather, told The New York Post. "The big thing is if you've got health issues that could be affected by the poor air quality, like asthma or other respiratory issues, then definitely take it easy." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AccuWeather projects the city's air quality will deteriorate into the unhealthy category on Tuesday. The private weather forecasting company headquartered in State College, Pennsylvania, uses Plume Labs, a Paris-based environmental technology company, for its air quality forecasts. "The air has reached a very high level of pollution," when the air quality reaches the unhealthy category, according to Plume Labs. "Effects can be immediately felt by individuals at risk. Everybody feels the effects of a prolonged exposure." Officials said seniors are at a particularly high risk, especially given the high heat. Do you worry about air pollution in your town? All the time Often Only sometimes Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. "Seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at an increased risk," warns the heat advisory issued by the New York City National Weather Service Office. "Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our overheating planet is playing a major role in intensifying wildfires, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists. The smoke from those wildfires creates several serious adverse health effects. "Every year, millions of acres of land are consumed by fire in the United States," according to UCS. "... By raising temperatures, melting snow sooner, and drying soils and forests, climate change is fueling the problem." UCS also reported that wildfires are becoming more common. "Since 2015, the United States has experienced, on average, roughly 100 more large wildfires every year than the year before," according to a 2022 update from the group. "This changes region by region, and year to year, but generally we're seeing more wildfires, more acres burned, and longer, more intense fire seasons." Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. A controversial measure to restore a caribou herd by culling predators in Alaska is back on the table after a special meeting in Anchorage. What's happening? The Mulchatna caribou herd, numbering at around 200,000 in the late 1990s, has now declined to fewer than 15,000, according to the Anchorage Daily News. To help lift the population, officials proposed a cull of the animals primarily bears that prey on the caribou. The local outlet reported in mid-July that the Alaska Board of Game restored the program through the state's Department of Fish and Game after area judges temporarily halted it this spring over concerns that "officials failed to provide meaningful public notice or opportunities for public comment and participation in the decision process and that the state had failed to analyze the program's impacts to bear populations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its first year of operation, the program culled 175 brown bears, five black bears, and 19 wolves. However, environmentalists and scientists have argued that predators have not been the prime threat to the caribou and that a cull does not address other dangers to the herd, such as habitat changes and disease. Why is the culling of bears a concern? Alaska is home to over 98% of America's brown bears, according to the state's Fish and Game Department. The animals play a crucial role in maintaining well-balanced ecosystems. As apex predators, the bears can keep prey populations under control, and their penchant for berries means they can help maintain biodiversity through their role as seed dispersers. They also clean up carrion and aerate the soil while foraging for food. Culling critics are concerned that removing a high number of bears from any one area could disrupt not only the local food web but also tourism motivated by bear viewing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similar bear culling measures have been proposed in other states and countries. What's being done? Fish and Game commissioner Doug Vincent-Lang says any indicators that the overall bear population is at risk will prompt changes to the hunting program, according to the Anchorage Daily. But the fight against the cull itself still isn't over. In a recent social media post, the Alaska Wildlife Alliance urged residents to speak out and attend a hearing on July 25. The hearing concerns a petition to find Fish and Game in contempt for having initiated bear culling this spring after the state judges ruled against the program, with the killing then halted only after a restraining order had been issued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pressure from community members may be one of the more effective challenges to the cull at this point and an especially notable one, since judges earlier saw lacking opportunities for public comment. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. In an effort to encourage water conservation, the Lower Colorado River Authority is dramatically increasing financial incentives for many residents and businesses in Texas. Since 2010, the LCRA's customer base has seen more than a fair share of drought conditions. To combat this, the LCRA and the Austin Water have developed programs that promote water-saving projects for homeowners. These projects range from upgrading irrigation systems to converting turf grass to drought-tolerant landscaping. To encourage even more participants, the LCRA is now offering larger rebates than ever before. In some cases, residents can earn up to $3,000. In a news release, the LCRA announced that it was doubling the rebate for mechanical aeration projects to $200. For mulching and composting, residents can now receive a $1,000 rebate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rebate that jumped the most is for installing drought-tolerant landscaping. Residents can now get as much as $2,000, up from $600. The LCRA expanded on the eligibility: "Most residents and businesses that receive water from an LCRA firm water customer and LCRA domestic use customers with contracts to draw water directly from the Highland Lakes are eligible for the rebates. City of Austin residents and businesses are eligible for rebates from Austin Water." The release added that "the rebates cover material costs, but not labor or taxes, unless otherwise specified," saying to visit WaterSmart.org to check on eligibility and apply. Drought-resistant landscaping, also known as xeriscaping, requires minimal watering due to the use of native plants, which can often be drought-tolerant. The method also takes advantage of efficient irrigation and water-wise design techniques. This approach helps conserve water, reduce maintenance, and increase sustainability during water shortages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Hofmann, LCRA executive vice president of water, explained the reasoning behind the changes. "Up to 70% of water used during the summer months is used outdoors, and that number needs to come down," Hofmann said. "We hope these rebates encourage residents to use technology and take other measures to cut back on outdoor water use, which saves both water and money." In 2022, Austin experienced its driest year since 2011. The city's yearly rainfall amount was nearly 10 inches below average. Since then, it has dealt with a drought that has threatened the region's water supply. The Live Music Capital of the World is in Stage 2 watering restrictions, which are designed to reduce water consumption by 10-20%. "This drought is serious, and we need to be thoughtful about how we use water," Hofmann added. "Every bit of water we save helps preserve our water supply in lakes Buchanan and Travis." Editor's note: A previous version of this article misstated that the LCRA rebates applied to Austin residents directly. The LCRA clarified to The Cool Down that even though its office is located within Austin, residents and businesses within Austin must go through Austin Water for any such incentives. Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. CHICAGO, Ill. (WGN) A homeless encampment on the citys Far North Side, already a concern among area residents and the wards alderwoman, was the site of a fire Monday morning. The Chicago Fire Department responded to the encampment, which was located in a secluded area of Legion Park along the west bank of the North Shore Channel, just south of West Peterson Avenue in the citys North Park neighborhood. Firefighters battled heavy flames and smoke, and after the blaze was out, found multiple propane tanks, paint cans, and other flammable materials at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We went over there to sort of take a look at what was going on. It was an incredibly scary and dangerous situation, Ald. Samantha Nugent (39th Ward) said. The fire department had to use the hydrant that was pretty far from the actual fire. They ran about two blocks of hose just to get the water from the hydrant to the fire. Officials have not released the cause of Mondays fire. According to Nugent, this is one of several fires that have taken place at this location, including another just a few weeks ago. This is such a dangerous location for the unhoused, the neighbors, and the first responders that are called to protect these folks when these fires erupt, Nugent said. Nugent said her office has been sounding the alarm on this encampment, which stretches between West Peterson and Bryn Mawr Avenues. In addition to the tents set up, people have also built wooden structures that resemble mini buildings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A pile of debris was left behind after the blaze tore through some of the structures. Weve been flagging this for the Mayors Office and Park District for some time, just how large this encampment is, how dangerous it is that they fence themselves in, and that its on this riverbank and the accessibility for our first responders to get in there, Nugent said. A statement shared Monday by the Chicago Park District with WGN-TV reads: The Park District is working to clean the debris from the fire. We are also working with the Alderwoman and DFSS on a more comprehensive cleaning of the encampment in Legion Park in the coming months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials with the Chicago Park District did not provide a timeline on when the encampment could be removed. Video from Skycam9 showed at least one person still walking around the area hours after the fire was put out. WGN-TV was told outreach workers went to the area to speak with people living there on Monday, but that the individuals they spoke with declined services. Residents living near Jersey and Thorndale Avenues, just outside the entrance to the park where firefighters responded, said they are fed up with the ongoing issues. The truth is that the neighbors dont feel like theyre being heard. They feel like they play second fiddle to the folks that are living in the encampments, Nugent said. They have really valid concerns with respect to safety, accessibility of the park, cleanliness. Theres a lot of drugs, theres alcohol, theres propane tanks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is about good use of the space for everybody, and this is also about the people living in the encampment. This isnt safe for them. The encampments that I have in this ward are not safe, and the unhoused are not safe, and the park should be restored for the community. Resident Sam Lawando has lived in his home near the park for about eight years. He told WGN-TV he was home when the fire happened. I was watching, and this is terrible to see whats going on. It never used to be like this, but now, Im about to move out of here. Of course, if its going to be like this, Im not gonna like it. Nobody likes it, Lawando said. He and several area residents said they have experienced issues with people hopping their fences and going into sheds behind their homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have kids, our kids cannot go outside and play beyond the park because theyre scared. Were tired of it. It never used to be like this, Lawando said. Please do something about it. Nugent said she is grateful the city is preparing to take steps to remove the encampment, but is also advocating for ongoing support and resources for those facing homelessness. I think at the end of the day, the folks that are experiencing homelessness need to be in housing. They deserve that, Nugent said. Were in the hottest of the hot days right now. Its not safe for them and the community is scared. Theres been a lot of problems in these encampments, and they deserve the restoration of the parks back too. WGN-TV reached out to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD), given that the encampment is located along the river. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for the agency shared the following statement: As a steward for the Chicago area waterways, the MWRD is always concerned about the protection of our waterways and the adjoining banks. The MWRD will work to ensure that if any debris from the fire entered the waterway that it is safely removed. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) A young advocate leading the charge to ban anti-LGBTQ+ conversion therapy joins NBC4s LGBTQ+ show Out in Ohio, along with the attorney and county councilman who have joined his effort. Digital Reporter David Rees hosts Out in Ohio and speaks with advocate Brandon West, Cuyahoga County Councilman Robert Schleper, and attorney Sarah Kolick. Condemned by the American Medical Association, the American Psychiatric Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, conversion therapy uses various techniques to attempt to change a persons sexual orientation or gender identity. While the Ohio Statehouse has been reluctant to pass a statewide ban, more than a dozen cities have approved their own local prohibitions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lorain, a northeast Ohio city and Wests hometown, is among the most recent municipalities to pass a conversion therapy ban, thanks to his advocacy. West said he was inspired to take on the effort after learning Ohio ranks among the top five states with the highest number of identified licensed and unlicensed practitioners of conversion therapy, according to The Trevor Project. Out in Ohio: 10 years after Obergefell, advocates warn marriage equality still at risk That initial ban advanced quickly: After being introduced in July last year, Lorain City Council voted in September to approve Wests proposal, prohibiting healthcare professionals in the city from engaging in conversion therapy with minors. West described the process as exhilarating and shocking, given the messages hes received from community members. The feedback Ive gotten from it has been remarkable, said West. I got so many messages from so many Lorain families, and even some in surrounding cities, saying how comfortable, either with themselves or their own kids, going and getting regular supportive talk therapy now knowing that conversion therapy was banned, knowing that it was safe to do so without the fear of trying to be forced to be changed from who they were. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, Wests advocacy has only expanded. Shortly after the Lorain ban passed, he began pushing for a similar ordinance in Cuyahoga County. He also inspired Westerville to become the 13th Ohio city to ban the practices earlier this year, and rallied the mayors of Athens, Westerville and several other municipalities to sign onto a letter urging others to follow suit. Now, West is focusing on the proposed county-wide ban in Cuyahoga, which had its first reading in July, while also beginning preliminary work on ordinances in Vermillion, Elyria, Avon Lake and Wellington. Throughout the process, he said its been eyeing opening to see how one person can drive meaningful change. Knowing that I can do that with help of others and create a movement around kindness and banning such a harmful practice, really inspires me to do more, said West. It really makes me feel so thankful and grateful for all the peoples support and how far weve come in just a year. Schleper, the sponsor of Cuyahogas proposed ban, said West approached him even before he was elected to the county council. Schleper said the ordinance is long overdue and is a no-brainer given it would support and protect LGBTQ+ youth. While the most recent attempt to pass a statewide ban failed to gain Republican support, he emphasized that the issue shouldnt be political or partisan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Top Ohio court to decide fate of transgender healthcare ban If theres any practice thats going on in Cuyahoga County or anywhere that causes adolescents and young people, LGBTQ+ students to either attempt to take their life or feel that they should take their life, I think that that practice should be illegal, said Schleper. As a councilman here in Cuyahoga County, part of my job is to do what I can to protect people and life people up. As the councils first openly gay member, Schleper said hes committed to advocating for the LGBTQ+ community while ensuring that all minority communities have a voice. Although a recent national report found LGBTQ+ people in Ohio face a high risk for inequality, Schleper wants people to know that they can still lead fulfilling lives. Those of us in our community get type cast or were told to fit within a particular box, and I reject that ideology, said Schleper. Im married, Ive been with my husband for 17 years, we have a six-year-old daughter, we live in the suburbs, I mow my lawn on Saturday, we have a normal life, and I want young people to understand that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kolick said she was inspired by Wests determination to make a difference. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community herself, she said its been a privilege to work with someone equally passionate about protecting youth from discredited practices like conversion therapy. Kolick explained that conversion therapy refers to a range of harmful and discredited techniques aimed at changing someones sexual orientation or gender identity. Some practitioners use physical methods such as inducing vomiting, smelling salts, electroshock, or inflicting pain while exposing youth to same-sex imagery. I think the very fact that theyre trying to change something thats innate to a person, thats essential to their identity, its intrinsically harmful and inflicts psychological harm, said Kolick. Conversion therapy reinforces those internalized stereotypes, that stigmatization that we have internalized by being part of a wider heteronormative society. Columbus City Council votes to create new LGBTQ+ affairs commission Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These practices have been linked to increased rates of suicide, depression and anxiety among LGBTQ+ youth, Kolick noted. A study by The Trevor Project in the American Journal of Public Health found that LGBTQ youth who underwent conversion therapy were more than twice as likely to report having attempted suicide and more than 2.5 times as likely to report multiple suicide attempts in the past year. There is something devastating about being told theres something flawed and medically wrong about you just because you love differently, you express your gender differently than whats expected, said Kolick. Thats why we see such high rates of depression, anxiety among youth that are subjected to conversion therapy. Its all those stereotypes, stigmatization almost on steroids. Kolick said its been difficult to locate survivors of conversion therapy due to concerns over confidentiality, privacy, and potential retaliation. However, she and West uncovered a recent local study indicating that at least 7% of LGBTQ+ youth in Cuyahoga, Lorain, Lake, and Geauga counties reported receiving some form of conversion therapy. I think that statistic isnt reflective, I think the problem is much more pervasive than the stats because a lot of people dont realize what theyve gone through is conversion therapy, or theyre too afraid to report, said Kolick. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NBC4s Out in Ohio amplifies the voices, stories and work of Ohios LGBTQ+ community. Watch this and future Out in Ohio episodes on NBC4i.com and the NBC4 Columbus streaming app on Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. As technology continues to evolve, so too do the techniques that scammers and criminals use to prey on innocent victims. Take what happened to this woman in Cleveland, for example. The woman, who was not identified for her own protection, was recently driving when she noticed something had struck her vehicle. Don't miss Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 6 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) You dont have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 heres how Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I heard a loud noise hit my car, like a rock or brick or something," the woman told News 5 Cleveland in Ohio. She initially didnt give it much thought, but later that evening she noticed something unusual at her home. I heard a car pull up in front of my driveway, I looked out and it was a female and male approaching my porch," she said. When the woman opened her bedroom window to speak with the strange visitors, one of them reportedly told her that she was in possession of the female visitors cellphone. Then two more cars pulled up in front of the house. Scared and confused, the woman then called her brother, who is an officer with the Kirtland Police Department. Meanwhile, the mysterious visitors reportedly told the woman they had called the police, but then quickly left when she began dialing 911 for herself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next day, the woman was outside investigating her vehicle when she discovered a cellphone attached to the roof of her car with a magnet. And according to local police, this womans disturbing experience may not be an isolated incident. Ohio police warn citizens of phone-magnet scheme According to police, scammers and criminals are reportedly using magnets to attach cellphones to cars in order to stake out homes and commit burglaries. We were recently made aware of a scam that is being done, wrote the Kirtland Police Department in a post shared on its Facebook page. Criminals are attempting to attach a cellphone to newer model cars. They then use this cellphone to track where the person driving the vehicle lives. They knock on the door claiming the homeowner has their cellphone. Once the door is opened, they force entry into the residence other vehicles are positioned in the street to assist in the home invasion as lookouts and getaway cars. The criminals will also tell the homeowner they called the police to try and get the homeowner to open the door. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The KPDs statement almost describes what happened to this unidentified Cleveland woman down to a T. That sound she heard could have been the cellphone being placed on the roof of her car with a magnet. Then the strange visitors showed up at her house demanding the return of the cellphone, with the lookouts and getaway cars showing up shortly after. The visitors even told the unidentified woman that they had called the police. "The couple told her, well, we called the police. The police are enroute. You need to give us the cellphone, said Joseph Gibson, the unidentified womans brother. "The couple didn't put up an argument about the phone. They weren't really concerned anymore, added Gibson, referring to the unwanted visitors taking off when his sister started dialing 911. They just said, let's just go. And they got in the car. All three vehicles left, left the house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while this womans experience is disturbing, many who saw the KPDs warning on Facebook appear to be incredulous. Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan works every single time to kill debt, get rich in America and that anyone can do it Public response raises questions The warning issued by the KPD seems to have generated substantial skepticism online. Many commenters have questioned several aspects of the phone-magnet scenario such as why criminals would use expensive phones for a high-risk, low-guarantee strategy, and how the criminals would know that they followed the target to their home and not someone elses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These commenters are also skeptical that documented cases of this scheme exist beyond this single alleged incident with the unidentified woman. Others, however, saw the threat mentioned in the KPDs warning as credible. In fact, several residents requested more specific information, including whether verified incidents have occurred locally and what evidence supports the KPDs warning. Safety precautions regardless of threat level The easiest way to stay safe from a threat such as this is likely also the most obvious: never open your door to strangers. This is especially true in a time when video doorbells are more affordable than ever. Instead of opening doors for strangers, try to use security features like peepholes, cameras or speaking through the window. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Secondly, if someone at your door claims police are on the way, call 911 yourself to verify before engaging. Authorities also advise being cautious when leaving restaurants, events or other public spaces. If you can, take a second to inspect your vehicle before driving home. And if you happen to find a tracking device on your car, avoid handling it and contact the police immediately. What to read next Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. DAYTON, Ohio (WJW) It was a search and recovery mission like no other. Ohio Task Force 1 search team manager David Kelley said, The whole nation came together. I was working with people from New York, Nevada, California, Idaho, Illinois, everywhere. Public memorial set for slain Lorain police officer Phillip Wagner Wednesday in Cleveland After assisting Texas amid historic flooding during the 4th of July holiday, members of Ohio Task Force 1 are now back on Ohio soil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Personnel were deployed as part of FEMAs coordinated urban search and rescue response. Devastating storms and flooding swept through Central Texas, the worst in Kerrville. In Dayton on Monday afternoon, members said it was a mission both physically demanding and emotionally challenging. The first wave of the team left Ohio on July 11, including two human remains detection canines and a search team manager. Unwavering support for slain Lorain Officer Phillip Wagner The second group, consisting of several additional K-9 specialists, joined them on July 18 as flooding intensified. At least 27 campers and staff members from a nearby campsite died in the rapidly increasing waters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ohio Task Force 1 is one of 28 FEMA urban search and rescue teams nationwide, often called upon during hurricanes, floods and natural disasters. This time, canine handler and their dogs played a critical role in locating victims and bringing closure to grieving families. 11-year-old boy stabbed in Cleveland: police More than 130 people died as a result of the historic flooding that swept across the region. The returning team members, some from Northeast Ohio, will now begin the process of reuniting with their families and debriefing from deployment. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) An Oklahoma-licensed attorney has been arrested for allegedly trying to kidnap a child that wasnt hers. In this particular case, the fact that a licensed attorney tried to do that is, is very concerning because we have to assume that that attorney has clients of her own, that shes responsible for, said Ed Blau, legal expert. According to court documents, on July 23, Tracy Zahl walked into the Westminster Presbyterian Church Child Care Center through an unsecured door. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators say she walked downstairs to the classroom area and tried to lure a 2-year-old out of the door by telling the child, Come with me. A teacher noticed what was going on and immediately grabbed the child, questioned Zahl, and told her to leave the area. Investigators say she then found another group of children and followed them to their classroom, before being told to leave the property. Supt. Walters unapologetic in latest statement regarding nude women allegations Zahl told staff that she was sent by God to be with the children and then left. Oklahoma City Police later found Zahl at her home, which was less than a mile from the daycare, and she was taken into custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers say that Zahl immediately stated that she made a mistake. They also noted that she does not have a child or grandchild who goes to the daycare and had no reason to be inside the facility. Any time something like this happens to a licensed attorney, the first thing you wonder is, are there mental health issues? Are there drug or alcohol issues? said Blau. News 4 uncovered documents from Zahls troubling past. In 2011, the Oklahoma Bar Association suspended her for one year after she self-reported that she was arrested for felony prescription forgery. Then in 2021, she was charged with two misdemeanors after threatening to kill her former employer and coworker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That former co-worker spoke with us over the phone and said, I trust the court and the bar association to address these allegations of her behavior in an appropriate manner and to protect the public. News 4 also reached out to the Oklahoma Bar Association. It is concerning when an Oklahoma licensed attorney is charged with a crime, and the Oklahoma Bar Association monitors and follows all such pending criminal charges. Pursuant to Oklahoma Supreme Court rules, the OBA cannot comment on or disclose information about pending disciplinary investigations. Oklahoma Bar Association Zahl is currently in the Oklahoma County Jail and is being held on a $25,000 bond. We also reached out to the daycare for a comment, but havent heard back. News 4 also requested the body cam footage of Zahls arrest. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) A criminal investigation is underway after bombshell allegations of explicit nude images played on a TV in State Superintendent Ryan Walters office during last weeks State School Board meeting. The Oklahoma County Sheriffs Office (OCSO) tells News 4 that state office officials brought them in because they wanted to figure out not only if what allegedly happened in Walters office was unethical, but also if it amounted to a crime. RELATED: Investigation inquiry underway after bombshell reports say board members saw naked women on Ryan Walters office TV during meeting Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the specifics of what that investigation will include are pretty murky right now. Were looking into it, OCSO spokesperson Aaron Brilbeck told News 4 Monday. OCSO says the States Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) reached out Monday, asking them to investigate if anything criminal happened. We just dont know whether there was any criminal activity, Brilbeck said. And thats the role of the Oklahoma County Sheriffs Office and our investigators right now is to look into that. News 4 reported Friday that state school board members Ryan Deatherage and Becky Carson claimed they saw images of clearly fully-nude women playing on a TV behind Walters as a family spoke to board members during the closed session portion of last Thursdays State School Board meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Third board member speaks out after allegations of naked women on TV in Supt. Walters office They told The Oklahoman and NonDoc that they confronted Walters, he looked at the TV, grabbed the remote, and turned it off without acknowledging what happened. News 4 reported that state employment policies make clear its a fireable offense to look at explicit content on state-issued devices. Whats not clear is how those imagesallegedlyended up on Walters TV. State lawmakers tasked OMES with getting to the bottom of it. House Speaker Kyle Hilbert asked Walters to turn over all his electronic devices to investigators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With OMES only handing the investigation to the OCSO a couple of hours before News 4 spoke with OCSO Monday, officials werent sure who currently had possession of Walters devices. I dont know the answer to that, Brilbeck said. Its not clear why OMES asked the Sheriffs Office to investigate, when the Oklahoma Highway Patrol is the primary law enforcement agency in charge of the State Capitol complex. News 4s calls and emails to OMES went unanswered Monday. News 4 has confirmed OMES officials met with Sheriff Tommie Johnson personally on Monday. Sheriff Johnson sat down and spoke with OMES, and they asked about their concerns and asked if we wouldnt mind looking into it, Brilbeck said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, Walters has not denied explicit pictures appeared on his TVonly suggesting if something did happen, it wasnt his fault. His office said in a statement Friday, in part: Any number of people have access to these offices. RELATED: Supt. Walters unapologetic in latest statement regarding nude women allegations Andalthough the board members never claimed to know how the alleged images ended up on Walters TVin another statement Sunday, Walters claimed: Any suggestion that a device of mine was used to stream inappropriate content on the television set is categorically false. I have no knowledge of what was on the TV screen during the alleged incident, and there is absolutely no truth to any implication of wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were aware of what has been told to the media, Brilbeck said. But obviously we have to do our own due diligence to speak with those witnesses that are involved to determine whether there was anything criminal. News 4 asked OMES officials if they have taken possession of Walters devices and if theyll still be running their own non-criminal investigation while the Sheriffs Office runs their criminal one. OMES did not respond. As for a timeline on how long OCSOs investigation might take, Brilbeck said its simply too early to know right now. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. A memorial for Trey Glass is held in Kansas, Oklahoma on Saturday, September 7, 2024 (Photo by Elizabeth Caldwell/Oklahoma Watch) The most important part of 28-year-old Brandon Hummels life was his two children, according to his mother. I know in my heart hes probably not alive anymore because he never wouldve stayed away from those kids this long, or me, Deana Floyd said. Floyd left Hummel, a Choctaw citizen, and her other son at home for a trip out of town in January 2024. Hummel stayed in Atoka while his brother reported going to the movies in Ada. When the family returned, Hummel had vanished. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yeah, he made mistakes, but through it all, he loved them kids, Floyd said. He was just a down-to-earth guy. Even when he got in trouble with the police before, they all liked him. It wasnt like he was a bad guy or anything, he just had some issues that he got in trouble for. Hummel had a track record of leaving home without a lot of communication, so Floyd didnt contact authorities to report him missing until a month passed. What followed, she said, was a disorganized and lackluster performance from law enforcement resistant to cooperation. The first organization involved in the search for Hummel was the Atoka County Sheriff. Floyd said the agency initially responded, but passed the case to Choctaw Lighthorse police without further involvement. That was something new, Floyd said, because the sheriff helped the family before. When [Brandon] was in his addiction, they didnt have a problem coming out and arresting him and taking him to jail, Floyd said. He was in their jail before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Things changed in Oklahoma after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on the McGirt case. That 2020 decision drastically altered the states legal landscape, finding much of the eastern portion to be reservation land. As a result, cases that the state would have previously handled were scheduled for tribal or federal courts. I think this law that they passed is ridiculous, Floyd said. They just want to shove everything over to the [Bureau of Indian Affairs] or the Lighthorse. If theyre Indian, they want nothing to do with it. Atoka County Sheriff Kody Simpson was elected last summer, defeating the incumbent after Hummels disappearance. Simpson said relations between his office and the Choctaw Nation have improved and its no longer policy that cases be sent without follow-up to the tribe. I hate to say this, but its the truth: in the municipal police and the county sheriffs offices, it is a way to be lazy, Simpson said. Its absolutely what it boils down to, 100%. They dont want to deal with the call; they dont want to deal with any call. The municipalities and the county sheriffs offices that hand every call off, for tribal citizens, it is a way to be lazy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the purview of the Lighthorse police, Hummels case languished, Floyd said. They werent interested in helping because of Hummels criminal record. In a written statement, Lighthorse police denied negligence, saying it investigated and followed local leads diligently for a year before the remaining leads were identified to be individuals located out of the state. Lighthorse eventually requested help from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and the BIA. Floyd said the first BIA agent in charge left without an explanation. His replacement, who is based in Tennessee due to a staff shortage in Oklahoma, has been scarce. The BIA did not respond to requests for information. Advocates note similar breakdowns in procedures and relationships. The Northeastern Oklahoma Indigenous Safety & Education advocacy network creates reports for cases it handles. Last year, the group was involved in the search for Trey Glass, a 19-year-old United Keetoowah Band member found dead in a well belonging to a former Kansas, Oklahoma police chief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its report on Glass, NOISE noted a tangle of issues, including a delay before tribal authorities were notified of Glass disappearance by the family, not the police. Much of the confusion could have been delayed, and more resources could have been deployed if the Kansas PD had some foundational knowledge of operating a police department within the exterior boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, the NOISE report stated. The confusion was compounded by an intertribal dispute. Because Glass family is UKB, they chose to contact their tribe for help, but the UKB and the Cherokee Nation are at odds over a recent opinion that they legally share the same reservation. The initial search for Glass was a cluster, according to the report, as the UKB, the Cherokee Nation and the police tried to sort out who was in charge. Chaos, apathy and uncooperative interagency behavior are not uncommon in missing or murdered Native cases such as Hummels and Glass. Thats according to Karrisa Newkirk, president and founder of Missing Murdered Indigenous Women Oklahoma, who said it can be difficult to get law enforcement at any level across the state involved, even in violent emergencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres been many domestic violence cases too, Newkirk said. So theres been many times when someone has called because of a domestic violence incident and the city police are like, Oh, youre tribal? Youre going to have to call tribal police. Even though theyre in the city limits. And when youre in a time of need, thats not something you want to hear. Newkirk, who also collaborates with the Department of Justice, said responses improve if a cross-deputization agreement is in place, but the responsibility for contacting tribal police often still falls on the shoulders of victims, which breeds distrust and confusion. I cant tell you how many times I have been told, Well, they said this, but I was so flustered in the moment, I didnt do it. I called you, Newkirk said. Newkirk advocates for a range of solutions, including greater resources for the BIA, continued involvement of a responding officer and a standardized approach to police notifying tribes of arrests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They probably dont have a manual, but I really do think there needs to be some kind of workflow, she said. Like, Oh, this is a tribal member. How many hours do we have to contact the tribal authority? Newkirk also said agencies that work together should have biweekly check-ins, networking events and annual training. A lot of these small PDs dont even have proper training in human trafficking, or missing children, or even murder cases, Newkirk said. It should not take 10 hours to issue an AMBER Alert when it meets all the criteria. Training is a necessity. In the meantime, Deana Floyd and other families with missing loved ones wait. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a nightmare when you dont know where your child is, she said. At this point, I dont care about anything anymore, except for finding him. This article first appeared on Oklahoma Watch and is republished here. Oklahoma Watch, at oklahomawatch.org, is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that covers public-policy issues facing the state. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX As a mother of a child in Oklahomas public school system, Im angry. Im scared. And Im exhausted. Every parent I know is tired of the headlines, the distractions and the chaos surrounding state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters. But were not just tired were outraged. This is no longer about politics. Its about safety, integrity and the future of our children. Lets talk about what The Oklahoman and others reported: Two members of the Oklahoma State Board of Education appointed and confirmed through official state processes alleged that explicit images of naked women were visible on a television screen during a closed executive session. (Walters later said he's not responsible for the images shown during a meeting.) That screen was connected to a publicly funded computer inside the state superintendents office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Let that sink in: During an official, taxpayer-funded meeting to discuss public education, pornographic material was allegedly on display in the very office charged with leading our schools. Part of a much bigger pattern This wasnt an isolated lapse in judgment. Walters previously emailed sexually explicit content to state lawmakers, claiming it was pulled from school materials but provided no context, no school name, no citation. Just graphic images and political posturing. If any educator had done this, they would be investigated, suspended and likely terminated. Yet Walters continues to deflect and distract, calling the allegations junk tabloid lies instead of facing them head-on. State schools Superintendent Ryan Walters is pictured at the July 24vOklahoma State Board of Education meeting. This is part of a much bigger pattern. Walters has used taxpayer dollars to travel the country and make media appearances rather than address Oklahomas last-place ranking in education. He advocated hard for a taxpayer-funded religious charter school until the courts stepped in and ruled it unconstitutional. Now, hes mandating Bibles in public classrooms completely disregarding religious diversity and the protections of the First Amendment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes also pushing PragerU content into our schools a privately run platform with no educational oversight, known for delivering cherry-picked, slanted versions of history and misogynistic narratives disguised as curriculum. Thats not education. Thats indoctrination. Meanwhile, our public school system our students and teachers are bearing the weight of the consequences. After Walters publicly attacked schools and districts over social issues, a wave of bomb threats swept across Oklahoma. My own childs school was impacted. I received repeated calls alerting me to ongoing threats and bomb squad investigations. Parents like me were left in fear, holding our breath each morning as we dropped our children off. We should never tolerate this That kind of fear should never be normalized. That kind of leadership should never be tolerated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opinion: Ryan Walters free food stunt begs the question: Is he Oklahomas class clown? Public education is not a battleground for ideology. Its the foundation of our communities. Our children deserve more than political theater. They deserve safety. They deserve facts. They deserve a leader who is present, prepared and focused on their success not someone using their platform for personal spotlight. This isnt about party affiliation. Its about responsibility. Its about whether we will allow Oklahomas future to be shaped by someone who continues to show poor judgment, questionable ethics and little regard for public trust. Ryan Walters has proven again and again that he is unfit to serve the interests of our children. Im not writing this as an activist. Im writing this as a parent who wants her child to be safe and well-educated in a public system that works. A system that honors truth, values all students, and keeps political agendas out of the classroom. We cannot afford to stay silent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oklahomas children deserve better and its time we demand it. Tamecca Rogers Tamecca Rogers is a parents who says she has watched her childs safety, education, and future put at risk by reckless leadership, inflammatory rhetoric, and a clear pattern of politicizing our Oklahoma's public schools. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Ryan Walters is not creating a system for OK kids to excel | Opinion The U.S. Army is shelving its plans to pursue a new variant of the M88 Hercules recovery vehicle and will pursue upgrades to the older version, the service told Defense News in a statement. The Army has made the decision not to pursue the M88A3 combat recovery system due to affordability and instead concentrate on improving M88A2 Heavy Equipment Recovery Combat Utility Lift and Evacuation System (HERCULES) readiness and reliability, according to a Friday statement from an Army spokesperson. The decision came after the Army concluded the M88A3 development effort in March 2025. BAE Systems is the prime contractor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since April 2025, the Army has been exploring alternative subsystem improvements as well as vehicle level overhaul efforts that could be accomplished on the M88A2 in lieu of procuring new M88A3 vehicles as concerns regarding affordability came to light, the statement said. The Army is still working on a formal path forward, but Program Executive Office Ground Combat Systems is working to initiate a service life extension program effort for the M88 in fiscal 2026. This path forward will allow the Army to fully concentrate on improving the readiness and reliability of the M88A2, the spokesperson added. Four U.S. Army soldiers were killed when their M88A2 vehicle sank in a deep peat bog in Lithuania during a training exercise in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The M88A3 was intended to fill a capability gap to support the recovery of 80-ton vehicles with upgrades to the powerpack, suspension, hoist and winch, according to an FY24 Defense Department report from the chief weapons tester. The A3 variant was designed to eliminate the need to use two vehicles to raise and move some of the newer and heavier Abrams tanks. The M88A2 has been unable to recover modern Abrams tanks without working in a pair and created more costly and complex logistical constraints in operations. The original plan was to conduct a full operational test and evaluation in FY27 and equip the first unit at the beginning of FY28. The performance of the M88A3 from the DOD weapons test report is unclear. The report, published earlier this year, notes that data analysis from soldier touchpoint events and live fire testing was ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BAE Systems and its supply chain partners put in great efforts to design a vehicle that performed well in test and received great feedback from soldier touch points. We remain focused on producing unmatched ground combat vehicles that are modern and ready for battle now, a company spokesperson said in a Monday statement to Defense News. Although we are disappointed in the decision to not move forward with the M88A3 Single-Vehicle Recovery capability, we appreciate the customers decision given the departments fiscal constraints, the spokesperson added. We are continuing to work closely with the U.S. Army and are confident the M88 franchise will continue to be the recovery vehicle of choice. Paul Gallagher, the older brother of Oasis stars Liam and Noel, has been charged by Scotland Yard with rape, sexual assault and a string of other offences. The 59-year-old is set to appear in court next month. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police shared the following statement: Paul Gallagher, of Manor Park Road, East Finchley, has been charged with rape, coercive and controlling behaviour, three counts of sexual assault, three counts of intentional strangulation, two counts of making a threat to kill and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It continued: The offences are reported to have taken place between 2022-2024. The charges follow an investigation which commenced in 2024. A woman is being supported by specially trained officers. The charges come as Liam and Noel are on tour with Oasis for their Live 25 reunion tour marking their first shows together since the bands acrimonious split in 2009. Paul, who is seven years older than Liam and one year older than Noel, grew up with his brothers in Burnage, Manchester, and has never been involved in Oasis. He has previously worked as a DJ and a photographer, and released a book in 1997 entitled "Brothers: From Childhood to Oasis", in which he described growing up with Liam and Noel. Paul Gallagher is due to appear at Westminster magistrates court on Wednesday 27 August. Villagers in China wade through a stream of muddy water under a blazing July sun, cleaning and collecting belongings washed away by heavy rains and floods that have claimed dozens of lives across the northern region this week. Swathes of the country have been hit by torrential downpours and flooding, killing over 30 people and forcing tens of thousands to be evacuated. On the outskirts of China's vast capital, where 80,000 have left their homes and over 100 villages have lost power, the mountainous district of Miyun was among the hardest hit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In flooded streets in the town of Taishitun, just over 100 kilometres (61 miles) northeast of Beijing's bustling city centre, weary locals worked desperately to retrieve what belongings they could find. "It's the kind of flood seen once in a hundred years," Pang, a 52-year-old who gave only his surname, told AFP. He motioned towards a refrigerator lying on its side, carried by a rush of water from his house 500 metres upstream when the flooding hit on Monday. "Previous years have never been like this," he said. A truck-mounted crane struggled to hoist an SUV out of the wreckage, placing it on the back of another large vehicle waiting to haul it away as its owner looked on, shaking his head. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elsewhere in the village, residents walked past ruined cars in metres-high piles. An office nearby lay in disarray, brown mud covering every surface. A local woman surnamed Zhao recounted to AFP that her house was flooded early on Monday morning. "It was a mess, the mud was this thick," 52-year-old Zhao said, gesturing with her hand. "My mother and I shovelled it, but we couldn't get it out. "We didn't know what to do so we just picked up some clothes and took shelter in a high place," she added. When they got home, she said "the refrigerator, washing machine and other things in the kitchen were all soaked". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There was also this thick mud all over the kitchen." Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered officials to plan for worst-case scenarios and rush the relocation of residents of flood-threatened areas. And authorities warn the rains could continue into Wednesday. At a village called Xinanzhuang visited by AFP journalists around midday, murky water submerged homes, cars and a road leading onto a highway. A local man in his sixties said that he had never seen water levels so high. pfc-oho/je/dhw Happy Tuesday, and welcome to another edition of Rent Free. They say all politics is local, and that's particularly true of housing politicswhere localities and (increasingly) states are the main policy-setting jurisdictions. Nevertheless, the federal government does influence housing policy and housing outcomes through any number of regulatory and spending programs. We got a reminder of that this past week with the release of two major federal housing initiatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Congress, the Sens. Tim Scott (RS.C.) and Elizabeth Warren (DMass.) announced a surprise, and surprisingly bipartisan, blockbuster bill in the Senate Banking Committee. It includes a long list of tweaks and reforms aimed at boosting housing supply. The same day that that bill was proposed, the White House issued a new executive order on homelessness that aims to shift federal policy and federal funding from a "housing first" approach toward one focused primarily on guaranteeing public order. This week's newsletter takes a closer look at both proposals and what they might mean for housing costs and the number of people sleeping on the streets. One Big Beautiful Housing Supply Bill On Thursday night, Scott and Warren, respectively the chair and ranking member of the Senate Banking Committee, released the text of their ROAD to Housing Act of 2025, which includes a raft of new policies aimed at boosting housing supply. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike past Democratic housing bills, including some authored by Warren, the legislation does not include billions of additional dollars for housing subsidies. It also excludes some controversial supply-side ideas favored by conservatives, like opening up federal lands for housing development. Instead, the Scott-Warren bill is a 315-page amalgam of proposals from Democrats and Republicans on the Banking Committee that largely tweaks existing federal grant programs, loan programs, and regulationswith many of those changes aimed at increasing housing production. Like an ensemble cast in a superhero movie, the bill includes a lot of familiar policy proposals that have been perennially proposed by housing supply boosters, plus a host of new ideas being audience-tested for the first time. "Individually, some of these [policies] may seem very technical and narrowly scoped. Taken together, collectively in this package, they can make pretty meaningful progress on housing supply," says David Garcia, the policy director for Up For Growth. More Housing Near Transit One common theme in the bill is reforming federal transportation and housing grants to direct more money to jurisdictions that have more liberal zoning rules and are building more housing as a result. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill incorporates the Build More Housing Near Transit Act, which would prioritize transit funding for projects in jurisdictions that have adopted "pro-housing policies" along proposed transit routes. The bill defines pro-housing policies as "any adopted State or local policy that will remove regulatory barriers to the construction or preservation of housing units, including affordable housing units." It also lists a number of specific pro-housing policies that would make jurisdictions' transit grant applications more competitive, including the elimination of minimum parking requirements, the adoption of by-right approval of development (meaning local bureaucrats don't have discretion to condition or deny building permits), the reduction of minimum lot sizes, and the elimination or easing of height and density limits. The bill was first introduced in 2019 by Rep. Scott Peters (DCalif.). It was also introduced as a stand-alone bill this Congress by Sens. Brian Schatz (DHawaii) and Jim Banks (RInd.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our bipartisan bill incentivizes cities and towns to build housing when they expand or redevelop their public transit systems. This will help put more families in homes, grow local economies, and cut carbon pollution," said Schatz in a press release announcing the stand-alone bill. Salim Furth, a housing policy researcher at George Mason University's Mercatus Center, says that the bill rationalizes the award of federal transit dollars to projects in areas where local laws allow for more housing, and therefore where transit ridership will be higher. While existing transit grant formulas do account for the influence of land use policy on ridership, land use regulation "wasn't given enough weight. There was a bunch of things but they're given the same weight," says Furth. The Build More Housing Near Transit Act places a more appropriate weight on land use laws and awards jurisdictions for actually adopting "pro-housing" policies, not just planning on adopting those policies, he says. Refocusing Community Development Block Grants on Growth Also included in the bill is the Build Now Act, which would redistribute some Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) money from high-cost localities building less housing to those who are building more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CDBG program distributes roughly $3.5 billion each year to localities and states with the primary goal of boosting economic development in poorer communities. The lack of strings attached to CDGB funds has long made it a target for conservatives and fiscal hawks who consider it a wasteful subsidy of purely local activities. The White House's latest budget request calls for eliminating the program. More modest critics argue the program's funding formulawhich factors in population, poverty rates, and the age of housing stockis outdated and leads to poorly targeted grant awards. The focus on old housing in particular can mean that high-cost, wealthy jurisdictions that approve little new housing can get subsidies that are intended for poor communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Build Now Act, which is co-sponsored by Warren and Sen. John Kennedy (RLa.), wouldn't throw out the existing formula. It would instead create an additional formula whereby jurisdictions with above-median housing costs and below-median housing growth rates would forfeit 10 percent of their CDGB funds. That money would then be redistributed to jurisdictions with above-median housing costs and above-median rates of growth. The basic idea of amending the program to reward jurisdictions that permit a lot of housing is not new. The first Trump administration's proposed rewrite of the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) rule similarly would have had CDGB recipients report on their housing market outcomes, with the potential for low-growth jurisdictions to lose grant money and high-growth jurisdictions to receive additional subsidies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (The Trump administration eventually tore up its first AFFH rewrite in favor of a far more minimal rule that did not require CDGB recipients to report on housing supply at all.) To keep the focus on places that are and are not approving new housing, the Build Now Act's formula would exclude low-cost jurisdictions, jurisdictions with high vacancy rates, recipient jurisdictions that don't control their own zoning, and jurisdictions that were recently affected by a natural disaster. Kennedy and Warren both describe the bill as creating an added incentive for localities to change their own policies to encourage more housing construction. "The Federal government should use the tools at our disposal to reward communities that are taking bold action to build more housing and reduce families' biggest monthly expense," said Warren. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm proud to introduce the Build Now Act to discourage pointless roadblocks and incentivize cities to help make the American Dream possible again," said Kennedy. A Better 'YIMBY Grant' Program? Additionally, the Senate bill would create a standalone housing "Innovation Fund" to reward jurisdictions that are presiding over expanding housing supply. The proposal would authorize a five-year, $1 billion* grant program, to be awarded on a competitive basis, to localities that have "demonstrated an objective improvement in housing supply growth." Localities that have improved their housing supply the most, as determined by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, could qualify for grants of up to $10 million that could be used to pay for local services, clean water projects, or liberalizing local land use reforms like shrinking minimum lot sizes, eliminating parking minimums, allowing more "middle housing," or creating "density bonus" programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This Innovation Fund would appear to be an attempt to improve the Pathways to Removing Obstacles (PRO) Housing grant program created back in 2022colloquially referred to as a "YIMBY grant" program. The PRO Housing program was pitched as a way of encouraging localities to liberalize their zoning laws. Grantees would report to HUD on housing supply initiatives they'd adopted. They could then receive money for land use planning activities. Critics argued that the PRO Housing program was overly broad, both in the types of jurisdictions that could qualify for grants and the kinds of policies they could adopt that might see them get federal money. As a result, jurisdictions (like states) that don't directly issue building permits received money via the program. Localities that didn't build a lot of housing received grants, as did localities that adopted policies that arguably made housing production harder. For example, Philadelphia and New York City received a PRO Grant for adopting expensive affordable housing mandates on new housing construction. The Innovation Fund would improve on this program by directing money to localities that have more of a role in setting land use regulations and that are actually building new housing. It's also much more specific (and much more thoughtful) about the kinds of land use planning activities it would reward with federal dollars. Model Codes The Senate bill also includes the Housing Supply Frameworks Act, which would direct HUD to produce model legislation that states and localities could adopt to improve housing production. The bill would give HUD three years to publish "best practices" plans for state and local zoning reforms. These would include recommendations for increasing allowable residential density, removing parking minimums, allowing by-right production of duplexes, triplexes, etc., and reducing impact fees. The original version of this bill was introduced back in 2024 by Sen. John Fetterman (DPa.) and Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (DDel.). A new, stand-alone, stripped-down version of the bill was reintroduced in April by a bipartisan collection of lawmakers. Its sponsors pitch the bill as a way of making up for the federal government's initial foray into zoning in the 1920s, when it encouraged states to adopt model zoningenabling laws that planted the seeds of today's restrictive zoning codes. "This is the first time Congress is writing down 'zoning is one of the bad things,'" says Alex Armlovich, a housing policy expert at the Niskanen Center. Manufactured Housing and Environmental Review While traditional site-built housing is regulated by states and localities, HUD sets building code regulations for manufactured housing that's built off-site and shipped to its final location. Supply-side reformers have long complained about a provision in HUD's regulations that requires manufactured housing to permanently sit on a steel chassis. Critics argue this needlessly drives up the cost of inherently lower-cost manufactured housing. The Senate bill would do away with the chassis requirement. The bill would also exempt federally subsidized urban infill development from the environmental review requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). NEPA environmental reviews take a lot of time and cost a lot of money to produce. Third parties can sue to delay projects on the argument that the federal government did not produce a thorough-enough NEPA review. By exempting federal housing subsidies from NEPA, the hope is that this will expedite federally subsidized projects and make federal housing dollars go further. Libertarians would argue against federal housing subsidies, period. Proponents of NEPA reform say that so long as those subsidies are provided, they should be administered efficiently. "If Congress is going to appropriate money, they shouldn't waste it. They owe us that," says Armlovich. What About Federalism? Land use regulation has long been the domain of state and local governments. Under our federalist constitution, that's how it's supposed to work. The Senate bill is an interesting animal in that many of its provisions would expand the federal government's influence over state and local housing regulations while trying to expand housing supply and encourage local land use liberalization. One could well argue that this isn't a particularly appropriate role for the federal government to play, nor one it's particularly well-suited for. Nevertheless, the federal government already influences housing market outcomes through its vast array of subsidies, loan programs, and regulations. Housing in America is also more expensive than it would be, thanks to local and state regulations. Within its existing outsized role, there are a number of smaller levers the federal government can pull to shift local and state policy in a more pro-supply direction. The Senate bill attempts to do just that. The legislation notably does not include more ambitious federal proposals to directly preempt local land use regulations or create vast new affordable housing subsidy programs. The Senate bill shows that "Congress is capable of thinking big about housing without proposing something so large that it would dominate this space," says Furth. The Nail in the Coffin of 'Housing First' While the Senate bill attempts to take a bipartisan, consensus approach to housing supply policy, the White House has proposed a more divisive update to federal homelessness policy. The Trump administration's new "Ending Crime and Disorder on America's Streets" order calls for increasing the use of civil commitment for mentally ill people living on the streets and shifting federal dollars toward local governments that prioritize encampment clearances and enforcement of vagrancy laws. "Shifting homeless individuals into long-term institutional settings for humane treatment through the appropriate use of civil commitment will restore public order. Surrendering our cities and citizens to disorder and fear is neither compassionate to the homeless nor other citizens," reads the order. This is a marked break with the "Housing First" approach to homelessness officially pursued by the Biden administration and many state and local governments that deemphasized encampment clearances in favor of providing permanent, supportive housing to the homeless. Proponents of the Housing First approach argue it is unfair and unjust to penalize people with nowhere to go for sleeping outside or gathering in encampments. It's easier to address people's mental illness and drug addiction when they have a roof over their heads. Homeless advocates have been unsparingly critical of the Trump administration's new order. "It moves federal policy many steps backward," says Jesse Rabinowitz, communications and campaign director for the National Homelessness Law Center. "It's going to make it easier to throw people behind bars who are homeless, who are sick, who are disabled. It's going to make it a lot harder to solve homelessness." As street homelessness has steadily increased in recent years, however, local governments led by both Republicans and Democrats have shifted toward a more enforcement-heavy approach geared to improving public order and cracking down on vagrancy. The U.S. Supreme Court's 2024 Grants Pass decision has given them more flexibility to do just that. The Trump administration's latest executive order can be seen as a lagging indicator of this trending change in approaches to homelessness. "Even Gavin Newsom and more moderate and progressive Democrats say, 'Well, of course [encampment] clearances have to be part of the solution,'" says Judge Glock, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute. "The solution can't be waiting for 15, 20, 25 years for housing prices to come down or for enough permanent supportive housing to go up." Quick Links The Texas Tribune's Joshua Fetcher has a lengthy new piece detailing how a bipartisan coalition in the Texas Legislature came together to pass this year's housing reforms. Zoning is no laughing matter. Philadelphia's zoning board rejects a proposal for a basement comedy club. Is it time for a YIMBY Party? A new paper finds major benefits of upzoning in New York City. Yet another new paper finds that zoning reform in Minneapolis led to falling home prices. A federal judge sides with Michigan wineries challenging zoning restrictions on their hosting of live events. CORRECTION: The original version of this article misstated the size of the Innovation Fund. The post One Big Beautiful Housing Supply Bill appeared first on Reason.com. VAN ETTEN, N.Y. (WETM) One person was taken to the hospital with serious injuries after a crash in Van Etten early Tuesday morning, according to information from New York State Police. A 39-year-old woman was taken to Robert Packer Hospital with serious injuries on Tuesday, July 29, after her vehicle crashed on state Route 224, between state Route 223 and Nobles Hill Road, in Van Etten, troopers said. Cause of death revealed for child after incident at Pennsylvanias Hersheypark Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crash happened sometime around 5 a.m., and the woman was stuck inside the car for a time as crews worked to get her out. The scene has since been cleared as of the publication of this article. The cause of the crash is under investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) Its been one year since gunfire tore through Maplewood Park, killing two women and injuring five others during a large event on the citys northwest side. Twenty-five-year-old Tyasia Manning died at the scene. Thirty-four-year-old Phylicia Council passed away hours later at the hospital. Their families are still grieving and still searching for answers. Its this first-year anniversary, man, me not being with my daughter, said Alex Council, Phylicias father. So its like a remembrance and mourning at the same time, you know. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 28, 2024, Rochester police responded to reports of shots fired at the park near Bridge View Drive. Investigators said hundreds were present when multiple people opened fire. Seven people were shot in total. Months later, in February, police arrested 21-year-old Niger Johnson in connection with the shooting. He was located at his grandmothers home on Arnett Boulevard and charged with reckless endangerment and criminal possession of a weapon. Johnsons trial began Monday with jury selection, but he remains the only person charged in the case. I havent really heard anything from the police, Council said. To the point where I dont know whos investigating. None of them have called me to give me any heads up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rochester police confirmed that the February arrest of Johnson is the most recent public update in the case. Council said the lack of information has left both his family and Mannings mother in the dark. I spoke to the young mother who also lost her daughter, he said. Shes doing tough too. And she hadnt really heard anything either. As the first anniversary brings fresh waves of grief, Council says justice feels far away. Something needs to be done about that, he said. Bring FBI in or something, you know? I lost my daughter. And its almost like just another dead child to society. Council added that while accountability wont bring his daughter back, it would offer some sense of closure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Would it completely heal me? No, of course not, he said. But at least my daughter should know I did the best I could to try to find her killers. Council said friends and family held a memorial for Phylicia in Rochester over the weekend to honor her life. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Major Crimes Unit at (585) 428-7157 or email MajorCrimes@CityofRochester.gov. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. The voting rights of disabled people, blind people and non-English speakers took a massive hit this week thanks to a federal appeals court ruling that found individual voters and private groups do not have the right to file lawsuits under a key provision of the Voting Rights Act. The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled only the Justice Department has the ability to initiate lawsuits alleging violations under Section 208 of the Voting Rights Act. Section 208 expressly allows voters who need assistance casting their ballot due to blindness, disability, inability to read or write, or if they have trouble with English as a first language, to bring someone into the voters booth with them to help them cast their ballot. Section 208 does not create a private right of action or the ability of an individual to sue because the provision speaks only of the assistance that a voter may be given it is silent as to who can enforce it, wrote the Trump-appointed appellate Judge Steve Grasz on behalf of the three-judge panel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The courts ruling on Monday falls in line with a controversial 2023 decision involving the Arkansas State Conference NAACP. The group sued the Arkansas Board of Apportionment and challenged the drawing of the Arkansas State House map after the states redistricting had created just 11 majority-Black districts when 16 majority-Black districts, the NAACP argued, would have been more reflective of the actual population. While the group claimed Arkansas redistricting had diluted and suppressed Black voting power in violation of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act which bars voting practices or procedures that discriminate on the basis of race, color or language the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals didnt tackle that issue. The court found that question couldnt even be weighed because, according to the 2-1 decision, they lacked standing to sue. Only the attorney general can enforce Section 2, the divided appellate court found. Rulings from the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals cover a swath of states including Arkansas, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Missouri and Minnesota, and the impact could be felt by voters in huge numbers should they need assistance at the ballot. The U.S. Census Bureau reported in 2022 that 18% of the Arkansas population has one or more disabilities, with most being connected to mobility, vision or hearing issues. In Missouri, according to findings from the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council, roughly 17% of the states population has a disability; the Iowa State Data Center as of 2022, reported that roughly 12% of Iowas population is disabled. In all of the other states that fall inside of the Eighth Circuits jurisdiction the rates are similar. Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota have disability rates hovering between 12% and 13%. Advocacy groups such as Disability Rights Nebraska report that roughly 11% of that states population is disabled. The Justice Department did not immediately return a request for comment Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision which was released Monday is almost certainly destined for a showdown at the Supreme Court. Only a week ago, the Supreme Court paused a ruling from the Eighth Circuit involving a challenge to a legislative map brought by two Native American tribes, the Spirit Lake Tribe and the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. A 2021 map covering their reservations, they argued, inhibited their voting power and made it increasingly difficult to elect candidates that their communities put forward. After a trial in 2023, a judge ordered that a new map proposed by the tribes be used. It led to the election of three Native American Democrats in the majority-Republican region. Like the NAACCP chapter in Arkansas, the tribes sued under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act but were rebuffed on appeal. In May, the Eighth Circuit found that only the government in this case, Attorney General Pam Bondi can bring claims under Section 2. In an unsigned order, the high court did not explain its reasoning for pausing the appellate courts decision. The order did note, however, that Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch would have denied the tribes application for a stay. Related... CLINTON COUNTY, Mo. (News-Press NOW) One man was seriously injured in a crash involving a four-wheeler on Sunday morning on Highway A, just a quarter-mile north of Missouri Route 116. According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report, the 26-year-old male from Cameron, Missouri, was northbound on Highway A when the Yamaha four-wheeler he was driving suffered a mechanical malfunction. The malfunction caused the vehicle to overturn, ejecting the driver, and it came to rest on the west shoulder of the highway. The crash happened at 2:25 a.m. on Sunday, July 27. The driver was transported by Tri-County EMS to Liberty Hospital. Although Tall Ships Erie is just a few weeks away, one ship made its entrance a little early over at Dobbins Landing. The Ernestina-Morrissey tall ship took a stop in Erie on Tuesday on its voyage to Detroit, Michigans tall ships festival. Preparations begin for Tall Ships Erie 2025 The ships crew has already traveled for three weeks from Massachusetts, and plans on leaving Erie sometime this weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ship itself is over 100 years old, and Captain Tiffany Krihwan said it shares a similar history to Eries own Lettie G. Howard. SONS of Lake Erie host fishing trip for veterans Shes very, very similar to Lettie G. Howard. She was originally built in 1894 in Essex, Massachusetts, so Lettie G. Howard was built in 1893 also in Essex, Massachusetts, so theyre just a year apart in age, said Captain Krihwan. The Ernestina-Morrissey will also be joining the lineup for Tall Ships Erie in late August. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. Redistricting traditionally takes place following the decennial U.S. Census Bureau population count or as a result of a court mandate. But Texas Republicans now plan to redraw maps mid-decade. At the urging of President Donald Trump, the Texas Legislature is being asked to redraw congressional boundaries ahead of next years midterm elections, aiming to secure five additional Republican U.S. House seats. If enacted, this would make it harder for Democrats to retake control of the House and push back against Trumps political agenda Texas currently has 38 seats, with Republicans holding 25, Democrats 12, and one seat vacant following the death of a Democratic representative. One map shows Lubbock to San Antonio One proposed map stretches a single district from Lubbock to San Antonio a roughly 350-mile span designed to consolidate Republican advantage. Proposed Texas congressional map What is the current Texas congressional map? Current Texas congressional map What is redistricting? Redistricting is the process of drawing lines for legislative districts from which public officials are elected. When its conducted fairly, it reflects population changes and racial diversity, and is used by legislators to allocate representation in Congress and state legislatures equitably. Is redistricting the same as reapportionment? No. Redistricting is the process of redrawing the boundaries of electoral districts, such as congressional, state legislative, or local political districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the American Civil Liberties Union, reapportionment is the process of redistributing the number of seats in the U.S. House of Representatives among the 50 states based on population changes revealed by the decennial Census. What is gerrymandering? Gerrymandering is the practice of manipulating electoral district boundaries to give an unfair political advantage to a particular party, group, or class. It is a form of redistricting, but done with the intent to influence election outcomes rather than ensure fair representation. According to the Campaign Legal Center, there are usually four tactics politicians use to gerrymander maps to disadvantage voters to improve their political interests. Malapportionment drawing districts with deliberate differences in population, which causes constituents in highly populous districts to have effectively less voting strength (drawn to disadvantage the opposite political party or voters of color) than their counterparts in more sparsely populated districts (drawn to advantage voters of the same political party as the map drawer). Racial voting dilution redistricting plans that minimize or cancel the voting strength of Black and brown voters. Partisan gerrymandering creating political maps that enable a political party to gain a systemic advantage for itself. Racial Gerrymandering sorting voters into districts with a predominant focus on race. The U.S. Supreme Court has found that an excessive focus on race in drawing districts offends the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution unless there is sufficient justification, such as compliance with the Voting Rights Act (VRA). How to submit your own congressional map proposal Texas residents can submit map proposals through the Texas Redistricting website. Submitted proposals are uploaded to the legislatures redistricting software, RedAppl, where House and Senate redistricting committees, other legislators, and the public can view and comment on them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For details on how to submit a public redistricting proposal, refer to the Redistricting Proposals from the Public resource. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: One Texas redistricting map shows Lubbock, San Antonio in same district DENVER (KDVR) U.S. Rep. Lauren Boeberts son earlier this month received a summons from the Windsor Police Department for a child abuse charge the congresswoman said came from a miscommunication. Tyler Boebert on July 11 received the summons for a misdemeanor offense of criminally negligent child abuse where no death or injury results, according to a redacted Windsor police summons record obtained by FOX31. Deion Sanders is back, baby after bladder with tumor removed Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The alleged violation is not detailed in the redacted version of the summons but occurred at the familys home in Windsor, part of Colorados 4th congressional district Lauren Boebert represents that covers most of the Eastern Plains. Lauren Boebert sent FOX31 a statement about the alleged child abuse incident. She also did not say what happened other than it led to her grandson getting out of our house, but said it was a miscommunication and a one-time incident. Tyler has been doing a great job getting his life on track as a father and citizen over the past year; unfortunately, this event stems from a miscommunication on monitoring my young grandson that recently led to him getting out of our house. As the citation states, there was absolutely no injury or physical abuse involved. Our family has already met with CPS to ensure we are continuing to provide a safe environment for my boys and my grandson; I am confident this is a one-time incident that we have addressed as a family. Rep. Lauren Boebert Tylers son was born in 2023 when he was 17 years old, making the Republican congresswoman a grandmother at 36 years old. Tyler has faced numerous legal troubles, including a string of alleged thefts and trespassing offenses and a sentence for identity theft from the same incident in 2024 in Rifle on the Western Slope, where Lauren Boebert previously represented in Congress before making the move to the Eastern Plains. According to the Windsor police summons, Tyler Boebert is due in Weld County court on Sept. 5. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. We know that exercise has numerous health benefits, but does it matter how much you spread it out? Even only working out on the weekends may still reduce some people's risk of early death, according to a new study. Researchers were interested in how people might build physical activity into busy schedules and decided to focus on those with diabetes, for whom exercise-related benefits such as reduced insulin resistance are particularly important. "Many people struggle to engage in regular physical activity throughout the week due to time constraints," the team from the US, China, and Australia writes in their published paper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "To overcome this, some condense their recommended moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) into 1 or 2 weekly sessions a pattern known as the 'weekend warrior' approach." Related: Ideal Number of Daily Steps Isn't as Many as We've Been Told The researchers crunched the numbers on 51,650 adults with diabetes, splitting them into four groups: those who did no MVPA, those who did less than the recommended 150 minutes per week, those who hit 150 minutes a week in 3 or more sessions, and those who managed 150 minutes a week in 12 sessions (the weekend warriors). Any level of exercise was shown to be beneficial, but primarily for those who managed the MVPA recommendations. People who participated in 3 or more weekly sessions had a 17 percent lower risk of dying during the study period, as well as a 19 percent lower risk of dying from cardiovascular-related issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The weekend warriors fared even better: this group showed a 21 percent lower risk of all-cause mortality and a 33 percent lower risk of cardiovascular-related mortality. So even if you only have time for a single exercise session or a couple of workouts, you can still get some of the same health benefits. The researchers charted exercise against mortality. (Wu et al., Ann. Intern. Med., 2025) "Even those who engaged in MPVA for less than 150 minutes per week experienced lower all-cause mortality than those who didn't," writes the team. "This underscores the importance of any physical activity for people with diabetes." The study doesn't establish cause and effect and by its use of self-reported data to look at a snapshot in time and in only covering people with diabetes. However, it's backed by many previous studies that show any amount of exercise can make a difference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most past research has agreed that the weekend warrior approach works as well as any other: as long as you're hitting those recommended targets, you get the same benefits in terms of both physical health and mental health. That's encouraging for anyone struggling to fit in gym visits during the Monday-Friday grind, but most studies (including this latest one) define weekend warriors as those who only exercise properly 12 times a week, regardless of the days. "Previous studies in the general population suggest weekend warriors may obtain comparable mortality benefits to regularly active persons, though estimates vary by population characteristics (for example, non-leisure-time physical activity)," write the researchers. The research has been published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Related News ALEXANDER CITY, Ala. (WRBL) A 28-year-old man is behind bars in Tallapoosa County after an online sting operation led by an independent group targeting adults accused of attempting to meet children for sex. According to a press release from the Alexander City Police Department, officers were called to the 200 block of Oak Street West on Saturday, July 26, 2025, to meet with members of an organization known as Predator Poachers. The group, which conducts undercover operations posing as minors, told officers they had confronted Shaye Ellis, a 28-year-old man from Wadley, Alabama, who had driven to the location believing he was meeting a 13-year-old girl. Ellis was detained at the scene until an investigator arrived. After reviewing evidence presented by the group, Ellis was placed under arrest for Traveling to Meet a Child for an Unlawful Sex Act, Electronic Solicitation of a Child, Transmitting Obscene Material to a Minor, and Resisting Arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was transported to the Tallapoosa County Sheriffs Department without further incident, where he remains held awaiting a bond hearing. Predator Poachers founder Alex Rosen spoke with WRBL following the arrest and praised Alexander City officers for their response. This is our second time exposing a predator in Alexander City, and both times Alexander City PD has been nothing but very professional, Rosen said. Rosen also urged parents to be vigilant about their childrens online activity. Just be diligent and pay attention to what your kids doing on their phone, he said. Were happy to help make a difference in this country and in this community, and Im sure well be back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No additional information has been released at this time, and police say the investigation is ongoing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. Mexicos drug cartels are so tenacious, so powerful, that under intense pressure, they forge diamonds rather than crumble. Amid years of bloody turf wars, new tariffs aimed at hitting the global narcotics market and thousands more combat troops at the border, cartels are feeling the pressure. The result? Two of the most notorious cartels, Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation, have begrudgingly decided to unite and conquer in an unprecedented alliance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This seismic shift in global organized crime demands that the U.S. urgently rethink its approach. Because this super-cartel wont just be a criminal syndicate trafficking migrants and drugs: It will operate more like a rogue state. Separately, cartels were already responsible for more than 30,000 deaths annually. Together, they now command fentanyl supply chains, digital surveillance networks and a loyal, militarized workforce across more than 100 countries. A union dramatically escalates their capacity for violence, trafficking and political influence. Yet U.S. policy continues to treat cartels like street gangs. President Trumps recent move to designate them as terrorist organizations made headlines, as did his talk of military action. But threats wont solve this crisis. Trump must take the cartels and their insidious grip on power seriously. Weve watched Breaking Bad; theres no neat ending to the story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heavy-handed U.S. military incursions risk triggering exactly what cartels thrive on: chaos. We know from 2019s failed attempt to capture El Chapos son that when provoked, cartels roll out armored vehicles, rocket launchers, grenades and machine guns, taking hostages, triggering riots and paralyzing entire cities within hours. And the wider War on Drugs has been an abject failure. It triggered a 900 percent increase in cartel activity, while annual forced disappearances in Mexico soared from 18 to over 3,000 in just six years. Prioritizing combat over community, and coercion over cooperation, left a generation caught between bullets and silence. If were now calling cartels terrorists, we must also respond as we did when facing another non-state threat with global reach and paramilitary power: ISIS. ISIS wasnt defeated by drone strikes alone. It took a coalition strategy that combined financial disruption, partnerships with Syrian and Iraqi ground forces, community stabilization and the counter-radicalization of vulnerable youth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And this last point is especially relevant. Cartels are Mexicos fifth-largest employer, and theyre recruiting children and teens to sustain their brutal empires. Some estimates suggest that as many as 460,000 young Mexicans are involved in organized crime. Some are enticed by the promise of money or protection, others by fear or force. But in many cases, its simply because they have no alternatives no schools, no jobs, no future. This is a humanitarian, developmental and moral emergency. And it mirrors the same dynamics that allow violent extremist groups to flourish. In the fight against ISIS, U.S. military forces played a decisive role, but just as crucial were the grassroots actors who undermined the groups ideology from the ground up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the U.S., community networks quietly blunted ISISs influence: rejecting its doctrine from the pulpit, fostering interfaith solidarity and helping law enforcement support at-risk youth. In Dallas, local Muslims hosted workshops for parents and teens on resisting extremist propaganda, while its imams delivered sermons condemning ISIS as un-Islamic and promoting civic engagement as the antidote to alienation. On a global level, the Muslim World League, the worlds largest Islamic non-governmental organization, publicly and repeatedly condemned ISIS as heretical, stripping the group of any claim to religious legitimacy. Under Sheikh Mohammad Al-Issas leadership, the Muslim World League convened 1,200 scholars from 139 countries to endorse the 2019 Makkah Charter a historic rejection of terrorism, extremism and sectarianism. Al-Issa even carried this message to global leaders at the European Parliament, denouncing terrorism and urging international cooperation to counter radicalization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This same lesson must be used to defeat cartel violence today. Already, a 2023 study found that the most effective way to weaken cartels is to disrupt their ability to recruit. That means investing in education, empowering local leadership and engaging faith leaders, teachers and NGOs to offer youth real alternatives to crime. We can also begin to out-organize, out-resource and out-strategize the cartels by treating them like the geopolitical actors theyve become. That means supporting and training vetted local security forces in Mexico and disrupting the cartels financial ecosystems, including through tougher enforcement on U.S.-based money laundering and weapons smuggling. It also means investing in local governance in cartel-dominated areas and expanding intelligence-sharing beyond Drug Enforcement Agency operations to a broader, civilian-led interagency framework focused on transnational threats. Theres nothing wrong with the Trump administration wanting to take the lead on tackling the cartels, but it cant succeed unilaterally, nor by treating Mexico as a failed state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luckily, we have just reached a moment where there is goodwill to be capitalized upon. Mexico recently sent civil protection and firefighting units to Texas to support the states flood recovery efforts. That same collaborative spirit can help forge a new cross-border alliance rooted in mutual interest and shared sovereignty. No doubt, for the U.S., this is the new Cold War. But this time its being waged between networks, not nations. And the cartels are stepping from back alleys into boardrooms, switching from well-trodden cocaine routes to cyber networks. When it comes to dealing with the new super-cartels, we need a strategy built on shared intelligence, economic development, social protection and joint security. Walls and weapons can only go so far. Paulina Velasco is a dual Mexican-American citizen and political strategist with over 15 years of experience leading large-scale advocacy and communications campaigns across California. A former investment officer for the Malaysian consulate in Los Angeles, she has also served on the Azuza Human Rights Commission and the San Diego County Environmental Commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The nations 12.4 million community college students, who include large percentages of adults, first-generation college-goers and veterans, should have a clear pathway to four-year degrees that lead to better career opportunities and increased earnings. But while nearly 8 in 10 community college students say they aspire to earn a bachelors degree, only about a third actually transfer to a four-year college. Of those who do, fewer than half earn a bachelors within six years. This is largely because the transfer process is inefficient and not designed for non-traditional students. Students who transfer after earning an associate degree often lose significant credits and must retake courses, which is a considerable barrier to earning a baccalaureate, or bachelors. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter Community colleges could be a big part of the solution by expanding their capacity to offer bachelors degrees in fields that are in high demand in their regional labor market, and by doing more to help students transition to four-year colleges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, over 200 community colleges in 24 states offer more than 736 baccalaureate programs and degrees. The vast majority focus on business, health care and nursing, education, information technology and other areas that address shortages in these and other fields. The bachelors degrees conferred by the community colleges typically cost about half the tuition charged by four-year public colleges. The programs help award four-year degrees to many underserved college students, keeping them close to home, putting them on pathways to good jobs and helping communities thrive. At MiraCosta College in San Diego, for example, college leaders learned from biotech industry partners such as Pfizer and Abbott Labs that they needed more employees with a bachelors degree in biomanufacturing production. After coordinating with four-year college partners, MiraCosta created the first-ever community college biomanufacturing bachelors degree program conferred by a two-year college. The program not only has significant employer buy-in and a 93% completion rate, but it also provides equitable opportunities to students. About two-thirds of MiraCostas biomanufacturing graduates are women (62%), two-thirds are non-white (64%) and 20% are the first in their family to attend college. The school is clearly meeting an industry need, employers are engaged, and together they have created a pathway to good-paying jobs in an expensive region of the country. Likewise, graduates of similar baccalaureate programs delivered by community colleges nationwide are 50% people of color and 64% female. In northeast Ohio, Lorain County Community College has offered 100 bachelors and masters degrees on its campus for nearly 30 years as part of a voter-approved Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement University Partnership that includes 13 colleges and universities. The degrees in everything from biology, human resources, nursing, public safety and respiratory care to computer science and supply chain management save students an average of $74,000 and include the kind of personal attention, career guidance, tutoring, writing instruction and nonacademic assistance with child care, transportation and food that are more common at community colleges than at four-year institutions. But state officials recognized that more community college baccalaureate degrees were needed to fill talent gaps in emerging fields in the state. Lorain County Community College was given permission to launch an applied bachelors degree in microelectronic manufacturing, to prepare workers in fields such as advanced manufacturing, automation, aerospace and biomedical technology. In the first two years, students spend three days a week working in paid internships and two days in the classroom. They graduate with an associate degree and up to two years of real work experience, then enter the bachelors degree program already holding a full-time job, often by the company where they interned. The college also launched a bachelors degree program to prepare technicians and engineers who are helping companies digitize and automate their operations, integrating robotics, control systems, machine learning and cyber-physical systems into modern factories. More than 100 companies have offered internships, advised on curriculum and committed to hiring graduates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But making baccalaureate programs available where they are needed is only one aspect of what community colleges do. Achieving the Dream, the reform network of more than 300 community colleges, includes more than 50 that offer baccalaureate degrees. These colleges are making it easier to transfer to four-year degree programs by creating better advising and support so students can move seamlessly from adult learning programs that provide certificates but not degrees; dual enrollment programs in which high school students also earn college credits from community colleges; and associate degree programs that lead to four-year degrees. These community colleges are also working to connect their students and graduates to programs and careers that pay a family-sustaining wage. In focusing on areas from which people from similar demographics have previously been excluded, the schools are sparking upward mobility. Related BYU Is Tops in March Madness Bracket for Moving Grads Up the Economic Ladder The debate over who and where bachelors degrees should be offered is too often driven by institutional priorities and policies set in the past. As jobs increasingly require a bachelors degree and employers continue to seek skilled workers, and as too many high school graduates and employees neither master new skills nor earn a living wage, it is time to shift the discussion from what type of institution offers a bachelors degree to their programs costs, benefits and value to students, employers and communities. Community colleges can play a central role in helping graduates achieve a bachelors degree. States and all colleges should support these low-cost, high-value degree pathways. For decades, campaigns have relied on polling to guide strategy, messaging, and resource allocation. But polling has a fundamental blind spot: It only tells you what voters say they care about, not what theyre actually paying attention to. That gap is widening, and it is costing campaigns. Take the 2025 Democratic gubernatorial primary in New Jersey. Most candidates focused on national politics, President Trump, and the economy in their messaging. Traditional polling supported that focus. But real-time news engagement data told a different story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among likely Democratic voters, education coverage was the top-performing issue by a wide margin. It accounted for 30 percent of all top-read local news content (up from just 18 percent the previous cycle), overtaking economic coverage for the first time. Yet polling from the same period showed only 5 percent of voters ranking education as their top concern. Why the disconnect? Voters dont always engage most with the issues they claim to prioritize. The data shows that stated preferences can often diverge sharply from demonstrated ones and that gap has strategic consequences. Campaigns that rely solely on polling are making high-stakes decisions from ad strategy to field targeting based on static data. Behavioral data, in contrast, gives campaigns a dynamic, real-time picture of what voters are thinking about right now, and how that attention shifts over time. Think of it this time: Polling is a snapshot, but voter behavior is a live feed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the 2024 presidential election, voters in Pennsylvania who lacked college degrees were consistently reading stories about job loss and plant closures, even while national headlines painted a picture of a stable economy. In North Carolina, younger and non-white voters gravitated toward stories about business closures in their own neighborhoods, while major media outlets focused on the political horse race. These werent minor deviations. They were early indicators of what would influence voter turnout. And they werent reflected in the polling. Timing plays a critical role as well. In New Jersey, voters who had already returned their ballots were mostly consuming national political stories. But those who hadnt the persuadable, undecided voters were focused on local and practical issues. Still, many campaigns aimed their closing arguments at the former group, missing the chance to shift opinion where it mattered most. This is the opportunity heading into 2026 to move from reactive strategies based on outdated assumptions to proactive strategies grounded in what voters are paying attention to in real time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Behavioral data offers that opportunity. By tracking the news content that voters are reading and engaging with and tying that behavior to location, demographics, and vote history campaigns can segment audiences more effectively and deliver messaging that aligns with the moment. Polling still has value, but it is no longer enough on its own. In a digital media environment that changes by the hour, campaigns need tools that evolve just as quickly. Too often, campaigns wait until after the election to realize they missed key warning signs in voter behavior. By then, its too late. Behavioral data allows for real-time course correction a vital capability in an environment where a single weeks narrative can change the trajectory of an entire race. Behavioral data isnt just another metric. Its a strategic advantage. It provides insight not only into what voters care about, but when and why. It offers the ability to adjust messaging midstream and avoid the trap of building strategy on outdated perceptions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The winning campaigns in 2026 will be the ones that recognize: Voters stated preferences matter, but where they focus their attention matters just as much. Aimee Bigham is Chief Strategy Officer of MV Digital Group. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Last week French President Emmanuel Macron announced that his country will recognize an independent Palestinian state, a surprising and significant move designed to resuscitate the quest for a two-state solution, coming in the context of the ongoing horrors of the war in Gaza. France is the first of the Group of Seven industrialized states which includes the United States, Canada, Britain, Italy, Germany and Japan to recognize Palestine. Its also historically relevant because between Israels founding in 1948 and 1967, when the United States took over this role, France was clearly Israels most important Western ally and security guarantor. Israel and the United States have angrily protested the French decision, claiming that it rewards Hamas for its ghastly massacre in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. But precisely the opposite is true. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Palestinian politics are binary. Since the first intifada (uprising) against Israeli rule in 1987, it has been divided between two major parties: Fatah (which controls the Palestine Liberation Organization and the Palestinian Authority, which governs the small, self-ruled Palestinian zones in the occupied West Bank) and Hamas (which has operated a de facto government in Gaza since it violently expelled Fatah in 2007). The scope of divergence is hard to overstate. Fatah is a secular nationalist party that seeks a negotiated two-state solution. Hamas seeks an Islamist state in all of historical Palestine (Israel and the occupied territories). Fatah is committed to negotiations, while Hamas embraces armed struggle. The two sides agree on little beyond recognizing each other as Palestinians. (Hamas responded to Frances recognition of a Palestinian state by saying its a positive step in the right direction toward achieving justice for our oppressed Palestinian people and supporting their legitimate right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on all of their occupied territories.) Virtually anything that strengthens one weakens the other. Israel understands and has exploited this for decades. For many years, Israel has enthusiastically facilitated the transfer of cash payments from Qatar and other benefactors to support Hamas rule in Gaza. (The governments of Israel and Qatar deny that any of the payments were directly intended for Hamas use; both say the funds were intended for humanitarian purposes.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the decisive split between Hamas and Fatah occurred in 2007, successive Israeli governments adopted a policy of trying to keep Hamas in power, although encircled and (quite literally) cut down to size in routine wars they called mowing the grass. Meanwhile, Israel maintained Fatah and the PA in power though limited and humiliated in the self-ruled areas of the West Bank. In 2015, back when Israels current finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, was a newly elected member of the Knesset representing the far-right Jewish Home Party, Smotrich said in an interview, The Palestinian Authority is a burden, and Hamas is an asset. Even after the horrors of Oct. 7, Israel has avoided any serious discussion of a day after scenario in Gaza, because anything that does not involve the return of de facto Hamas rule or all-out and open-ended reoccupation of Gaza would inevitably strengthen Fatah and the quest for an independent Palestinian state. Strengthening the hand of those Palestinians who might, under the right circumstances, be able to create a Palestinian state to live peacefully alongside Israel is unthinkable to the right-wing coalition that governs Israel. As recently as July 7, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that any Palestinian state would be a platform to destroy Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If there were a viable two-state solution negotiation process in place, or even conceivable under current circumstances, perhaps then there would be compelling arguments against the French move. It could force both sides into defensive crouches or provoke Palestinians to overplay their hands. But no negotiating process exists. Instead, Israel is trying to position itself to annex much or all of the West Bank, thereby cutting off the only pathway to a genuine peace. Religious extremist settlers regularly rampage through villages, further squeezing West Bank Palestinians into smaller and smaller parcels of land. The diplomatic, political and moral imperative is to prevent Israeli annexation by all means necessary. The French decision brings the international community back to the fundamental choice that faces the world. Israelis and Palestinians live in virtually equal numbers in a de facto Israeli state that simultaneously denies both citizenship and independence to the overwhelming number of Palestinians (the 5 million or so who live in the occupied territories). These two groups of people cannot live in peace unless both enjoy self-determination and citizenship. International recognition of a Palestinian state in the occupied territories is a fraught but imperative step to preserve the only pathway for these two long-suffering peoples to live together in neighboring states in peace, security and dignity. France has shown the way. Others, including the United States, should follow. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com During President Trumps push for his big, beautiful budget bill, either a betrayal or a political blunder occurred as an unelected bureaucrat became the most powerful person in the U.S. Congress. Before we go any further with a new budget a process that is already underway that needs to change. Trump campaigned with the message that federal engagement on the abortion issue should be cut back. Although I disagree given the life-and-death stakes, I admire his commitment to tackle hard issues. And few things are harder than cutting federal funding to Planned Parenthood. In the U.S. House budget, pro-life leaders fought for abortion vendors to be cut from the nations health care for a period of 10 years a historic legacy for Trump, Speaker Mike Johnson and the GOP. But the U.S. Senate dropped that ball by choosing to play by rules that others havent always followed, allowing an umpire into the political game who seems to be playing for the other team. As a consequence, the funding cutoff now lasts just one year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When key Republican-backed provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act were gutted in the Senate, the executioner was not one of the elected leaders charged with representing taxpayers. The person wielding the blade, rather, was an unelected, deep-state bureaucrat: U.S. Senate parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough. The parliamentarian position was created in the 1930s as an advisory role to weigh in on the statutes and procedures guiding the legislative process. It was not created by the Founding Fathers to ensure a check on congressional decision-making, and it does not appear in the U.S. Constitution. In 2012, Democratic Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, a notoriously shrewd political operator from Nevada, appointed MacDonough to what has too often been a nearly lifetime role. Raised in the shadow of Washington, D.C., MacDonough has long-term ties to establishment politicians, receiving praise from Republican Senate legend Bob Dole and advising Democratic Vice President Al Gore on counting electoral votes after his election battle in Bush v. Gore. But this is the core of the problem. The Senate parliamentarian is sometimes nothing but an enforcer of the status quo, the so-called uniparty or swamp. No law demands that the advice of the Senate parliamentarian must be obeyed. Parliamentarians serve at the pleasure of the Senate majority leader. The current leader, Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), can fire this one at any time or simply ignore her ruling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Historically speaking, that has happened before. In 1975, Republican Vice President Nelson Rockefeller stepped in to overrule the parliamentarian on a budget fight. In 2001, Majority Leader Trent Lott (R-Miss.) fired then-Senate Parliamentarian Robert Dove after he issued an interpretation of the rules that would have made it difficult, if not impossible, to pass President George W. Bushs $1.35 trillion tax cut. In 2013, MacDonoughs pal Harry Reid changed the rules to allow for cloture on Judicial nominations, as did Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) in 2017, to allow for cloture on Supreme Court nominations and to enact the Trump tax cuts. And during the Biden presidency, House Democrats sent a letter signed by almost every party member demanding Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) overrule the parliamentarian on votes regarding immigration and minimum wage laws. Even as recently as this year, Republicans, led by Thune himself, voted to go against the parliamentarian when they motioned to strip California of the ability to set its own emission standards. Overruling the parliamentarians advice was accomplished with a simple majority vote. So why didnt that happen here, when the Senate took up the House version of the funding bill? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the fight over the bill, some Republican lawmakers highlighted the parliamentarians political intrusion. GOP Rep. Greg Steube of Florida said on X, How is it that an unelected swamp bureaucrat, who was appointed by Harry Reid over a decade ago, gets to decide what can and cannot go in President Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill? Alabama Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville echoed the sentiment, posting: This is a perfect example of why Americans hate THE SWAMP. Unelected bureaucrats think they know better than U.S. Congressmen who are elected BY THE PEOPLE. Her job is not to push a woke agenda. THE SENATE PARLIAMENTARIAN SHOULD BE FIRED ASAP. Good advice. Strategically speaking, a one-year cutoff makes no sense. It sets Republicans up for a difficult midterm election, as an abortion debate will be in full swing when the cutoff ends on October 1 of the election year. My organization will score any attempt to add back spending for Planned Parenthood and all abortion vendors, but the pain of that process if it repeats in one-year increments will be self-inflicted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Republicans are serious about being a governing party and surviving the midterms, they must build a better team. Why is the parliamentarian still there if she has proven to be an obstacle to Trumps platform? To paraphrase the president, many people are asking. Before we start this entire budgeting process again for fiscal 2027, Majority Leader Thune must replace MacDonough with a procedural adviser who doesnt try to legislate. If the Republicans fail to act now, they deserve a one-way ticket out of Washington in 2026 courtesy of the American people. Kristan Hawkins is president of Students for Life of America and Students for Life Action. Subscribe to her podcast, The Kristan Hawkins Show. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Jeffrey Epstein mess at the Department of Justice calls to mind Herman Wouks World War II novel The Caine Mutiny. The paranoid Captain Queeg later portrayed by Humphrey Bogart on film turns his ship upside-down in a manic search for a stolen quart of strawberries. Queeg orders fruitless cabin searches and crew interrogations until, finally relieved of duty, he mutters, Ahh, but the strawberries, thats where I had them. They laughed at me, but they were only trying to protect some fellow officers. Hundreds of employees at the Justice Department and the FBI conducted a similarly obsessive search, this time for Epsteins mythical client list for sex-trafficking. The searchers combed through offices, cabinets, closets and hard drives, reviewing over 100,000 pages of documents. The effort consumed law enforcement resources but yielded nothing. Captain Queeg would have been proud. The frantic search left the Justice Department with no choice but to contradict Attorney General Pam Bondis earlier claim that the client list was sitting on my desk, and admit that it possesses no such list. (Bondi has walked her claim back.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To appease Trumps enraged MAGA base, the department announced the diversion of even more crime-fighting resources to another pointless quest for missing strawberries a strike force to investigate baseless allegations of a treasonous conspiracy by former President Barack Obama and his intelligence officials arising from Russias efforts to influence the 2016 election. Welcome to the dumbing down of the Department of Justice, where the smartest and most experienced prosecutors are resigning or being dismissed; partisan, substandard lawyers are replacing them; and the departments mission is reshaped to serve the presidents political and vengeance agenda and to investigate bizarre conspiracy theories. Ten experienced, high-quality federal prosecutors left the department over its decision to drop corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams in an apparent quid quo pro for his support for Trumps immigration crackdown. Over two-thirds of the attorneys in the departments Civil Rights Division have left because its mission has been twisted from enforcing civil rights to enforcing Trumps executive orders. Trump aides forced out most of the lawyers in the Public Integrity Section because prosecuting corrupt Washington officials evidently is less important than deporting undocumented immigrants who work hard, pay taxes and have committed no crimes. Who is filling the vacuum? Start with Ed Martin Jr., a Missouri lawyer and conservative activist with no prosecutorial experience, who is the subject of pending disciplinary proceedings and who had once been found in contempt for failing to obey a court order. Trump nominated him to be U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, but he proved too extreme even for Republican senators. Trump had to withdraw his nomination, but Martin was then installed in multiple high-ranking Justice Department roles that bypass Senate confirmation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then theres Alina Habba, whom Trump appointed to be the interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey, despite her lack of any prosecutorial experience. She previously worked as one of Trumps own private lawyers. Habba publicly vowed to turn New Jersey red, promising to abandon partiality in favoring Republicans in enforcing the law. When her interim term expired, New Jerseys federal judges, exercising their statutory mandate, appointed a highly respected career prosecutor, Desiree Leigh Grace, to succeed her. Bondi promptly fired Grace from that position and reinstalled Habba. For historical perspective on the Justice Departments decline, look to 1973, when Attorney General Elliot Richardson resigned in the public interest rather than carry out an order from President Richard Nixon to fire Archibald Cox, the special prosecutor investigating the Watergate scandal, something Richardson had promised at his Senate confirmation hearing not to do. Looking for integrity and moral courage like that in todays Justice Department is as futile as, well, Captain Queegs hunt for the missing strawberries. Gregory J. Wallance was a federal prosecutor in the Carter and Reagan administrations and a member of the ABSCAM prosecution team, which convicted a U.S. senator and six representatives of bribery. He is the author of Into Siberia: George Kennans Epic Journey Through the Brutal, Frozen Heart of Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. In his second inaugural address, President Trump announced he would build the strongest military the world has ever seen. He followed up by sending Congress in June a record $1.01 trillion Defense Department budget for fiscal year 2026. Trump also said in his inaugural address that he wanted to be remembered as a peacemaker and a unifier. But later the same day he signed an executive order that led to the dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development and began an ongoing process of diminishing Americas diplomatic capacity to advance Americas global interests, prevent conflict and promote peaceful resolution of international problems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A nations military capacity is easy to understand. It consists of troops, weapons, training, logistics and military bases. Trumps $1 trillion defense budget will strengthen Americas already considerable military capacity. But to be successful diplomatically, America requires diplomatic capacity, which has three concrete dimensions and one intangible. The concrete dimensions are: people, presence and programs. The intangible dimension is something the recently deceased Harvard University scholar Joe Nye called soft power. Skilled and experienced diplomats are Americas greatest diplomatic asset, but they are made, not born. Acquiring language and other professional skills and knowledge require years of training and hands-on experience. Americas Foreign Service and Civil Service diplomats represent a significant investment in U.S. national security and the protection of citizens abroad. America needs the best diplomats to compete with other countries, particularly Chinas, best diplomats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet, earlier this month, the Trump administration announced the firing of 1,300 State Department officials, which follows the firing of virtually all USAID staff. This amounts to throwing away many years of investment in an American national security asset. In diplomacy, being there matters. Diplomatic presence consists of Americas embassies in global capitals and consulates in major cities important to significant U.S. interests. Embassies and consulates are the eyes, ears and voice for America on the ground internationally. They protect American interests and citizens, keep Washington informed of developments, and build support for American policy priorities. Until recently, America had the most robust diplomatic presence internationally. Now China does. Nonetheless, Trump is planning cuts to Americas overseas diplomatic presence, which will only help our adversaries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Diplomacy is not just talking, it is also making things happen. Diplomatic programs are tools that support U.S. strategic priorities and those programs change as administrations change. Such programs range from humanitarian and development assistance and support to U.S. farmers and companies in developing international markets for their products, to leveraging the United Nations and other international organizations to achieve U.S. goals. They also include international radio stations like the Voice of America that bring the truth about America and the world to people whose governments lie to them. Diplomatic programs represent approximately 1 percent of the federal budget, but yield outsized returns to U.S. national security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In dismantling or slashing funding for diplomatic programs like Food for Peace, Voice of America and funding for international organizations via the United Nations (where others pay 78 percent of the costs for U.S.-shaped agendas), Trump is taking tools out of the U.S. national security toolbox that will hurt his and future administrations abilities to achieve their international goals. Trump is also undermining the intangible soft power dimension of Americas diplomatic capacity. Americas global alliances testify to its predominance of global soft power. Nye defined soft power as the ability to obtain preferred outcomes by attraction rather than coercion or payment. Others wanted to work with the U.S. on shared objectives and share the burden of doing so. But that is changing and, as Nye said before his death, and as recent international polls indicate, under Trump, America is shedding soft power, which can only help our adversaries and competitors. In undermining Americas diplomatic capacity, Trump is also undercutting Americas military capacity. Americas military and diplomats work as a team, with each complementing the other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Trumps first secretary of Defense, James Mattis, said when he was the commander of U.S. Central Command, If you dont fully fund the State Department, then I need to buy more ammunition. Diplomats help prevent conflict and, when conflict occurs, diplomats help end it and sustain the peace. Whether in Europe, the Middle East or Asia, the military counts on U.S. diplomacy to help create supportive coalitions. For example, no matter the size of the Defense Departments budget, there can be no successful defense of Taiwan without robust and sustained diplomacy in Asia and beyond before, during and after a conflict. Diplomacy is about getting others to help achieve Americas goal for a world that supports U.S. prosperity and security. The Trump administration has a number of international priorities, not one of which can be resolved by the U.S. or its military force alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Trump hopes to achieve any lasting, positive international legacy, he needs to end the radical Project 2025-driven attack on Americas diplomatic capacity and begin a systematic review of how to structure and use the nations diplomatic capacity to achieve his international goals. A good first step would be to immediately rescind the mass firing of American diplomats and assess how existing diplomatic programs can be reshaped to serve Trumps goals. If Trump harnesses Americas diplomatic capacity to engage with others and shape the global agenda, he may, despite everything, be remembered as a peacemaker. Ken Brill is a retired foreign service officer who served as an ambassador in the Clinton and Bush administrations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Trump has reached a trade agreement with the European Union, imposing a 15 percent tariff on most items. However, the president said that pharmaceuticals are excluded from the agreement, pending an ongoing U.S. investigation. EU officials hope that when the dust settles, pharmaceutical tariffs wont be higher than 15 percent, which they see as a win, since thats less than Trumps threat to impose tariffs of up to 200 percent on prescription drugs and their active ingredients manufactured outside the U.S. Trump is keeping up the tariff pressure on drugs reportedly to encourage onshoring and bring more U.S. pharmaceutical manufacturing jobs to the U.S. But given that Trump has complained about high drug costs, imposing outrageously high tariffs on pharmaceuticals would be a terrible, not to mention costly, idea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1994, as part of World Trade Organization negotiations, several major trading partners agreed to exempt most pharmaceuticals from tariffs, known as a zero-to-zero initiative. The thought was that pharmaceuticals are just too important to human health and well-being to become part of a very politicized tariff process. They still are, but Trump looks to upend that agreement. What is clear is that imposing tariffs on pharmaceuticals is not a way to hammer China. According to a drug supply-chain analysis by U.S. Pharmacopeia, only 3 percent of the active pharmaceutical ingredients in brand-name drugs are made in China and only 2 percent in India. Its 8 percent and 35 percent, respectively, for generics. Europe is the big winner, manufacturing 43 percent of brand-name active pharmaceutical ingredients, while 15 percent are manufactured in the U.S. Indeed, Ireland has become a drug-manufacturing powerhouse, in part because of its low corporate tax rate and welcoming business environment policies Trump understands. With respect to Trumps concern about jobs, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says that pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing provided more than 340,000 jobs in 2023, with an average annual wage of $87,170. Thats a solid showing. Yes, manufacturing jobs could be shifted to the U.S., but not for several years, since building drug-manufacturing facilities is a very complex and costly process. And manufacturers are increasingly turning to automation to get the job done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And there are other considerations. Pharmaceuticals are distributed worldwide, and countries that buy a lot of them, like those in the European Union, understandably want some domestic manufacturing just as Americans like to see foreign-branded cars made in U.S. factories. The good news is that reduced regulations and the corporate tax benefits in Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act provide a strong economic incentive for drug companies to base more of their manufacturing in the U.S. It may take time, but his limited-regulation approach is attractive, and his low-tax policies are permanent, creating economic stability unlike the on-again, off-again tariffs, which could be easily eliminated by the next president. A better way to attract more pharmaceutical manufacturing would be to reinstitute the manufacturing tax breaks that U.S. territories like Puerto Rico once enjoyed. The island once had a thriving pharmaceutical manufacturing industry until Congress began phasing out the tax breaks known as Section 936 in 1996. The island has never recovered economically. With respect to Trumps concern about national security, Europe is one of the U.S.s strongest allies. There is very little reason to think Europes production of APIs or finished drugs poses any threat to the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another of Trumps stated concerns about the pharmaceutical industry is high drug prices. And its true that some of the newest drugs, and especially biologics that treat some of the rarest and most debilitating diseases, can be very expensive. But imposing tariffs would make drugs manufactured in other countries even more expensive. Many of the most innovative drugs, for diseases like cancer, are made by very small niche biopharmaceutical companies that are surviving on investors money and dont have other sources of revenue that might help them eat some of the tariffs. They will have to pass on any increased costs. Pushing drug companies to reshore their manufacturing may also encourage some countries to implement compulsory licensing, which permits a government to allow a different manufacturer to produce a patented drug without the patent-holders permission. Its bad politics for a country to allow compulsory licensing when a drug company is providing jobs. If the company relocates, that restraining factor is gone. Tariffs on pharmaceuticals is one of the worst possible ideas. Trump has taken positive steps through tax and regulation policy to encourage drug manufacturers, as well as other industries, to reshore, and more could be done. Breaking the zero-to-zero initiative would be counterproductive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merrill Matthews is a co-author of On the Edge: America Faces the Entitlements Cliff. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Trump is wildly off in his commitment to end the Ukraine war in 24 hours of retaking the presidency but its not for lack of trying. His plan was to engage with his friend, Vladimir Putin, whom he called brilliant after Russias first invasion of Ukraine in 2014. Trump has shown his intention to employ a geostrategic pincer movement to bring Ukraine to terms: Russia would increase pressure on the battlefield and on the civilian population while Trump squeezed Ukraine by reducing the flow of American diplomatic, political and, most critically, weapons and intelligence support. As Trump told President Volodymyr Zelensky in February when he and Vice President Vance sandbagged him in the Oval Office, You dont have the cards. But now, the public humiliation that the Vance-Trump team subjected Zelensky to has been returned to Trump by Putin, albeit in a subtler manner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the past month, after Zelensky accepted a ceasefire proposal, Trumps repeated urgings for Putin to end the killing became sterner, eventually rising to the level of warnings and deadlines. Putin made promise after promise to stop the war as soon as its root causes were addressed by which the Russian leader means the unacceptable existence of Ukraine as an independent, pro-Western country. Even Melania Trump commented on Putins exploitation of the president. As Trump himself put it to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, I go home, I tell the first lady, You know, I spoke to Vladimir today. We had a wonderful conversation. And she said, Oh really? Another city was just hit.' Trumps 50-day extension for Russian compliance shortened on Monday to just 10 to 12 days and his promise to impose punishing sanctions on Russia and its allies is the latest stall that serves Russias interests. It allows the continuing destruction of Ukraines cities and the wanton killing of Ukrainian men, women and children. Trump should play the card he used successfully with Iran and not let the clock run out before acting against Putin and his malign allies who are supporting his aggression and war crimes that is, China, Iran and North Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After getting Putins attention with that preemptive move, Trump can declare that the U.S. and its allies will cooperate to provide Ukraine with all the weapons, intelligence and other support it needs, not only to resist Russias continuing invasion of its country, but to eject it from the parts of Ukraine it already illegally occupies. To help pay for that ongoing aid and Ukraines postwar reconstruction, America and Europe should utilize all the Russian funds seized and held since the invasion began in 2014. The cost of Putins aggression is not limited to the horrific destruction of ancient cities and 400,000 Ukrainian casualties, but also the massive expenditures on European economies having to build or buy arms to defend against the Putin scourge. Trump should also lay down the gauntlet by announcing that the U.S. will ensure the Russian people know the truth about what is happening in Ukraine and how a million young Russians were deceived into becoming expendable casualties of Putins totally unnecessary war. When the truth becomes known to the many millions of the Russian families and friends of the killed and wounded, Putin will have on his hands the most serious challenge to his rule of his entire career one that cannot be resolved with dissidents falling from tall buildings or being stricken in public places by sudden contact with Novichok poison. Relatively peaceful regime change in Russia will set the stage for similar governance transformations in Iran, North Korea and, most critically for world peace, the Peoples Republic of China. Trump is the only world leader today who can make this happen. It would certainly be worthy of the Nobel Peace Prize Trump is openly seeking. Joseph Bosco served as China country director for the secretary of Defense from 2005 to 2006 and as Asia-Pacific director of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief from 2009 to 2010. He is a nonresident fellow at the Institute for Corean-American Studies, a member of the advisory board of the Global Taiwan Institute and member of the advisory board of The Vandenberg Coalition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. As leaders navigate the evolving expectations of a post-pandemic workforce, a sobering reality has emerged: People wont return to the office just because theyre asked. A growing body of evidence including a recent in-depth analysis from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago shows that employees are choosier than ever about what office environments theyre willing to tolerate. To draw them back, employers must rethink the modern workspace. That means reining in ineffective trends like open floor plans and doubling down on amenities that actually work, such as free parking and private offices. The data confirm it: What gets people in the door is not ping-pong tables or smoothie bars its convenience, comfort and control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Free parking may not be flashy, but its effective. The Chicago Fed report found that vacancy rates for office spaces offering on-site free parking have dropped sharply across U.S. markets since 2020. In Detroit, vacancy rates in these properties dropped from 5.4 percent in the first quarter of 2019 to 1.3 percent in the final quarter of 2024. Chicago saw a similar drop, from 8.4 percent to 3.6 percent. Those are staggering numbers, especially in an era when overall office vacancy rates remain high at 15.7 percent in Chicago and 12 percent in Detroit, respectively. Parallel surveys from CBRE show parking outpacing gyms, cafes and even transit proximity as the most-desired building amenity. These are not marginal improvements. They suggest that ease of access particularly in car-dependent cities is one of the most critical factors in workers willingness to return to the office. Free parking eliminates a major logistical headache and financial burden, especially when downtown parking prices are high or public transit is unreliable. Unlike trend-driven amenities, parking speaks directly to the daily friction employees face. Its the kind of infrastructure-level support that allows people to say yes to returning, not just out of obligation but because it makes their lives easier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This pattern holds even within central business districts, where you might expect public transit or walkability to reduce the value of on-site parking. In reality, office properties in these areas that offered free parking already had lower vacancy rates before the pandemic and have only improved since. In other words, parking is not just a suburban benefit its a competitive advantage everywhere. At the same time, the report highlights a sharp decline in the desirability of open office layouts. Once hailed as the future of collaborative work, open floor plans are now strongly associated with rising vacancy rates. In Detroit, properties with open floor designs saw their vacancy rate skyrocket from 5 percent in early 2019 to 30 percent by the end of 2024. In Chicago and across the broader U.S. market, the numbers tell a similar story, albeit at slightly lower levels: 27 percent for Chicago and 26 percent more broadly. Meanwhile, Harvard Business School research found that face-to-face interaction drops roughly 70 percent in open offices, and a survey by Clutch found that only 28 percent of American workers actually like open offices. The reasons are multifaceted. Pandemic-era concerns about disease transmission made dense, shared workspaces far less appealing. But even beyond health, the shift to remote and hybrid work has made employees more attuned to the conditions that foster deep focus and meaningful output. Open floor plans are often noisy, distracting and poorly suited to hybrid meetings where some participants are on video calls. Employees now expect the office to offer something their home workspace may lack privacy, calm and the ability to focus without interruption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This doesnt mean the collaborative ideal is dead, but it does mean flexibility is key. Instead of forcing everyone into a single design mold, the modern office should provide a mix of shared spaces and enclosed areas. Workers want the option to choose how they work best, not be locked into a format that prioritizes visibility over productivity. Many companies have invested in on-site amenities like fitness centers or day care in hopes of sweetening the return-to-office deal. However, the Chicago Fed data reveals that these features have not had the effect employers had hoped for. Office properties with on-site fitness centers actually have higher than average vacancy rates, both nationally and in cities like Chicago and Detroit. Even Class A spaces those typically associated with the newest, most premium offerings have seen vacancy rates climb in buildings with gyms. The same is true for on-site day care, despite its importance for working parents. Although it remains a valuable support for some, the amenity alone hasnt been enough to significantly reduce vacancies. This suggests that although these offerings can be helpful, theyre not decisive. Employees prioritize basic work-life logistics, like commuting, parking and personal workspace, over ancillary perks. In short, companies looking to reinvest in office infrastructure should focus first on the fundamentals. If an amenity doesnt address a clear and present friction in the employee experience, its unlikely to move the needle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interestingly, even building age and renovation status dont consistently correlate with lower vacancy rates. One might assume that newer or recently renovated buildings would perform better, but thats not always the case. In fact, many buildings constructed or refurbished after 2018 have seen rising vacancy rates in recent years, despite initial gains. In Chicago, post-2018 renovations saw vacancy rates jump from 11.9 percent to 23.6 percent a near doubling in just five years. This reinforces the idea that superficial upgrades or architectural freshness cant overcome deeper design misalignments or inconvenient locations. What matters more than aesthetics is whether the space meets todays hybrid work demands: accessibility, autonomy and adaptability. The findings from the Chicago Fed make it abundantly clear that returning to the office isnt about gimmicks. Its about creating environments that work for people. Leaders should stop trying to lure employees back with trend-chasing amenities and instead ask, What makes it easier to be here than at home? Start with parking. Reconsider the open floor plan. Invest in acoustic privacy, reliable technology for hybrid collaboration, and layout choices that reflect different work styles. These arent luxuries theyre the new baseline for what makes an office viable in todays work culture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The path forward isnt complex, but it does require focus. If you are serious about attracting your team back, meet them where they are behind the wheel, looking for a parking spot, and hoping they wont spend the day in a noisy fishbowl. Give them ease, privacy and purpose, and they just might stay. Gleb Tsipursky, Ph.D., serves as the CEO of the hybrid work consultancy Disaster Avoidance Experts and authored the best-seller Returning to the Office and Leading Hybrid and Remote Teams. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. As any constitutional scholar will tell you, the Constitution devotes as much time defining the limits of presidential power as it does defining its broad reach. But there is one exception to this: the presidential pardon power. That broad power is clearly spelled out in Article II, Section 2, Clause 1: The Presidentshall have power to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment. The Supreme Court has, in effect, subsequently interpreted that provision as allowing a president to pardon anyone, anytime, for any offense (except impeachment). In his masterful book, The Pardon, CNN legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin argues that use of the pardon is the one time where a president is, for all practical purposes, a king. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Such an awesome power was bound to be abused, and several presidents, Republican and Democrat, have done so. Among other abuses, Gerald Ford pardoned Richard Nixon to spare him from prison. Bill Clinton and Joe Biden pardoned members of their own families near the end of their terms. President Trump pardoned supporters who stormed the United States Capitol on Jan. 6. But no previous abuse of the pardon can compare with what dominated the Sunday morning news shows last weekend, and which Trump has so far not ruled out: A possible presidential pardon for Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Lets remember who she is and what she is serving time for. Maxwell had more than a romantic relationship with convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. For years, she was Epsteins enabler and procurer. Several young women testified that it was Maxwell herself who had sought them out, introduced them to Epstein, persuaded them to have sex with Epstein and other prominent men, trained them in sexual techniques, and herself participated in some of their sexual encounters. In 2020, federal prosecutors charged that between 1994 and 1997, Maxwell personally assisted, facilitated, and contributed to the abuse of minor girls despite knowing that one of three unnamed victims was 14 years old. She was convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison for what Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has accurately described as terrible, unspeakable, conspiratorial acts and acts against innocent young people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And that should be the end of the story, but its not. Suddenly, having failed in every other attempt to change the narrative on Epstein, the Trump administration is now counting on Maxwell to be its lifeline. Todd Blanche, Trumps former personal attorney, now deputy attorney general, rushed to Tallahassee last week and spent nine hours over two days interviewing Maxwell. Why? We know why Maxwell agreed to talk: She wants to get out of prison. She has already asked the Supreme Court to overturn her criminal conviction. And now she is clearly angling for a presidential pardon from a man who admits he was once one of Epsteins best friends. But by spending so much time with her, Blanche triggered a wave of speculation about a Maxwell pardon. This is especially bizarre, given that Maxwell has nothing to do with all the questions swirling around the White House about the Epstein matter. What Trumps MAGA base wants to know is why he and other administration officials spent six years spreading the conspiracy theory that Epstein was murdered while his client list was being covered up to protect powerful elites only, once in office, to turn around and report that Epstein committed suicide and there is no client list. Why wont they simply release all the Epstein files? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Granted, the idea that anyone convicted of sex trafficking in underage girls would merit a presidential pardon is unthinkable. Even Johnson, in a rare break with Trump, admitted I have great pause about that, as any reasonable person would. But whats even more unthinkable is that Trump didnt immediately shoot it down. Instead, when asked by reporters whether he would consider a pardon for Maxwell, Trump would only offer a weak: Its something I havent thought about. Im allowed to do it, but its something I have not thought about. Really? Whether or not to pardon a sexual predator is not something Trump should have to think about. His answer should have been an immediate, emphatic: No way, no how. Period. Its insane even just to toy with the idea. Clearly, this is one point on which Republicans and Democrats can agree: Sexual predators dont get a mulligan. Ghislaine Maxwell does not deserve a presidential pardon. Trump should stop even teasing the possibility of giving her one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bill Press is host of The Bill Press Pod . He is the author of From the Left: A Life in the Crossfire . Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The sign at the entrance to the Orange County Supervisor of Elections office is still partially made of construction paper. Inside, Karen Castor Dentels staff closed her door for the first time as she prepared for her interview and promptly got everyone in the office stuck when it refused to open again. Such is the way at the office as it recovers from the chaotic regime of her predecessor and a scandal that consumed the oxygen in the county for weeks last fall. At times, payroll was uncertain as leaders worked to recover $5 million that Glen Gilzean was accused of spending on pet projects instead of the core needs. When WFTV sat down with Castor Dentel last Tuesday, she was proudly able to announce that her office had finished paying off the last of the overdue bills and paid its poll workers on the day of the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She quickly got about to discussing the priorities and improvement she promised voters but had to delay while getting her office organized. Weve got to find new ways to connect with people, she said. One of Castor Dentels biggest priorities for the upcoming year include opening six new early voting sites to avoid the long lines the county saw in the 2024 election. She said the locations have not been chosen, but theyre scouting places that are both ADA accessible and have ample parking. I saw so many people slowing down, looking like they were going to come vote, but then seeing the line, just kept driving, she said. We dont want to turn away any voters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes also focused on getting voters registered. Her plans include opening a satellite office inside the Tax Collectors office at the West Oaks Mall in Ocoee where people can register to vote and get information about upcoming elections. She also spoke about a proposal to create a Vote-Mobile, a truck that serves as a rolling billboard for the office with QR codes on the sides they can take to events and parades. You can imagine, if youre the Vote Mobile is in a parade going down the street, and people are sitting there. They can get the QR code while theyre sitting there and update their voter registration right there -- right there -- while theyre sitting on the sidewalk, she said. That, she said, would address the challenge created by the new state law that resets mail-in voting requests every two years. Currently, just 10% of the 300,000 voters who received mail-in ballots in November have renewed those requests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of her ideas to connect with voters has already been implemented. She partnered with OCPS and the League of Women Voters this past spring to attend each schools senior check out day, which gave her office a chance to capture the countys youngest civic participants. Her agenda also contains more far-out items. One is to upgrade security measures and take over responsibilities as the Department of Homeland Security continues to cut back under President Trump. Another is to find a new office space. She said her workers need about three times more square footage and their current majority-warehouse setup does not work. Their buildings are also old and for sale. Finally, she reminded voters that there were elections in progress for senate and house seats in Tallahassee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not too late to ask for your vote by mail ballot, she said, mentioning an August 21 deadline and four early voting sites. Election Day is September 2, which falls the day after Labor Day weekend. We would love it if people didnt skip out on this election. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. The Oregon Department of Human Services is in Salem. A federal appeals court granted a Malheur County womans request to halt the department's policy requiring adoptive parents embrace their childs sexual or gender identity. (Michael Romanos/Oregon Capital Chronicle) A federal appeals court granted a Malheur County womans request to halt Oregons policy requiring adoptive parents embrace their childs sexual or gender identity, urging the state to implement a less prescriptive approach to protecting some of the foster care systems most vulnerable youth. The Thursday ruling from the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals strikes down a November 2023 decision by U.S. District Judge Adrienne Nelson, who rejected the womans original request to stop the policy on the grounds that denying LGBTQ+ identity creates collateral harm on the childs development, safety, and physical well-being. Studies have shown that LGBTQ+ youth are overrepresented in the foster care system, making up to one-third of existing cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recent case stems from an April 2023 lawsuit against the Oregon Department of Human Services brought forth by Jessica Bates, a widowed mother of five from Vale who says she wants her current children to have more siblings. Bates in her suit contended that her Christian religion and unwillingness to take a young adopted child to get hormone injections or to a Pride parade should not have precluded her from state-backed adoption. From using preferred pronouns to facilitating gender-related hormonal treatment, Oregons policy directs Bates to go against her religious commitments by its requirements of word and deed, wrote Appellate Judge Daniel A. Bress, an appointee of President Donald Trump. The states suggestion that Bates is not burdened because she can continue to hold her own religious views reflects an incomplete understanding of the Free Exercise Clause. Judge Michael Daly Hawkins, appointed by former Democratic President Bill Clinton, joined Bress in the 2-1 opinion. Judge Richard R. Clifton, appointed by former Republican President George W. Bush, dissented. The ruling highlights the extent to which Oregon has led the nation on the issue of foster care protections for LGBTQ+ youth. The majority opinion points to other similarly-intended policies they would find constitutional, such as a Biden administration rule establishing LGBTQ-friendly care providers without mandating participation or anti-harassment laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jenny Hansson, a spokesperson for the Oregon Department of Justice, said the department is disappointed in the ruling but is still evaluating next steps. Adriana Taylor, a spokesperson for the Oregon Department of Human Services, said the agency was reviewing the ruling and does not have further comment. The majority opinion cites the June U.S. Supreme Court case of Mahmoud v. Taylor, in which religious parents were found to have their First Amendment rights violated when their school district refused to allow them to opt their children out of course materials they found offensive. The judges reviewed pages of training from the human services department, seeing mandated viewpoints in directives for parents to respect Hir/Zir pronouns and disputing Oregons lawyers arguments that the states broader policy wasnt tied to one specific religion or community. Adoption is not a constitutional law dead zone, Bress wrote. And a states general conception of the childs best interest does not create a force field against the valid operation of other constitutional rights. In a statement after the ruling, the Arizona-based Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative Christian legal advocacy group that represented Bates, sharply criticized Oregon for promoting dangerous ideology to young kids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every child deserves a loving home, and children suffer when the government excludes people of faith from the adoption and foster system, said ADF Senior Counsel and Vice President of Litigation Strategy Jonathan Scruggs. Jessica is a caring mom of five who is now free to adopt after Oregon officials excluded her because of her common-sense belief that a girl cannot become a boy or vice versa. Original 2018 policy in limbo Bates lawsuit against Oregons Department of Human Services traces back to a 2018 policy adopted to better support the inclusion of LGBTQ+ foster youth, who have reported traumatic experiences of rejection from their original and host families. The policy requires that adoptive and fostering parents respect, accept and support their childs sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and spiritual beliefs, next to a list of protected other categories. Auburn Marie, development director for the Portland-based Basic Rights Oregon, among the largest LGBTQ advocacy groups in the state, called the decision troubling. Queer and transgender youth in the foster system are already often not welcomed into their families of origin, she said, adding that placement in a hostile home often leads to negative outcomes for mental health and personal success. Its just really devastating and sad that a person would not be able to accept a person, especially a child, the way they are and the way that they identify, she said. These kids deserve more than anything to be in affirming homes that welcome them just the way they are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case also tested the boundaries between parental rights over youth, free speech, LGBTQ+ protections and religious liberties. One major nonpartisan national free speech group filed an amicus brief in favor of Bates argument in January last year, seeing more strength in efforts like Oregon Foster Childrens Bill of Rights, which protects an individuals right to determine and express gender and sexuality for themselves. The things Oregons rules require prospective adoptive parents to pledge unconstitutionally compel them to express specific viewpoints with which they may disagree, Ronnie London, general counsel of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, said in a statement. There are other viable, less restrictive means to support LGBTQ children in foster care, as FIRE argued. In his dissent, Clifton wrote the court had made a decision based on an incomplete understanding of the case and the record in front of the judges. He said the policy was no different than other well-established authorities of the state, such as regulating public health and safety. The only limitation imposed by the state in declining to approve her (Bates) application to foster a child concerns her treatment of the child, not what she personally believes, how she speaks to the world, or how she practices her faith, Clifton wrote. Oregon should be permitted to put the best interests of the child for which it is responsible paramount in making the decision to place one of its children in the custody of a foster applicant. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield joined a multistate lawsuit on Monday against the Trump administration, challenging demands from the United States Department of Agriculture for states to hand over personal information of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients. In the lawsuit, the coalition of 20 attorneys general claim the Trump administration is illegally asking states for personal information to fuel (a) mass deportation machine, and say the USDA is threatening funding for the program if states do not comply. For many families, SNAP is the difference between having groceries on the table and going without, said Rayfield. Forcing states to hand over years of sensitive personal information puts those same families at risk. Oregonians shouldnt have to give up their privacy to put food on the table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Portland car thefts down, but thieves have new tool SNAP is a federally funded program, administered by states, that offers food assistance to tens of millions of low-income families across the U.S. The attorneys general note that the federal government and state agencies have worked together for over 60 years to ensure that SNAP benefits are only given to people who are eligible for the food assistance credits, noting the USDA itself has described SNAP as having one of the most rigorous quality control systems in the federal government. Those quality control systems do not require states to turn over sensitive, personally identifying information without any restrictions on how that information is used or shared with other agencies, the attorneys general argue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here is how much you need to make to buy a home in Portland However, in May, the USDA made an unprecedented demand for states to hand over massive amounts of personal information, on all SNAP recipients including Social Security numbers and home addresses dating back five years, the attorneys general said. Officials note that undocumented immigrants are generally ineligible for SNAP benefits; however, immigrants with citizen children may seek benefits on their childrens behalf. The attorneys general argue that the data requested by the USDA if improperly shared would allow federal immigration authorities access to the identities and locations of undocumented immigrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Eye on Northwest Politics In their lawsuit, the attorneys general argue that the USDAs request violates federal privacy laws, fails to meet public comment requirements, oversteps USDAs authority and violates the Spending Clause. With the lawsuit, the attorneys general are asking the district court to declare the Trump administrations demands unlawful and to block the Trump administration from making federal funding conditional. Rayfield joined the attorneys general of California, New York, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Washington, Wisconsin and the state of Kentucky in the suit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Job News USA is organizing a career fair in Orlando on July 30th, featuring hundreds of job openings in different sectors. The event, which will take place from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Embassy Suites on International Drive, will allow job seekers to connect with recruiters and hiring managers from some of Orlandos leading companies. The Orlando Police Drug Enforcement Division arrested an Orlando man in Pine Hills after executing a search warrant and finding illegal narcotics. Willie Barnes, 50, was arrested with 30 MDMA pills laced with Fentanyl, totaling about 14 grams. A search of Barnes residence uncovered more drugs: 73.5 grams of MDMA pills mixed with Fentanyl, 2.4 pounds of cannabis, 5.6 grams of THC, 3.4 grams of Xanax, and 1 gram of Oxycodone. The Orlando Police Drug Enforcement Division successfully executed a search warrant leading to the arrest of Willie Barnes, who was found with illegal narcotics in Pine Hills. Along with the drugs, officers seized two vehicles and $1,050 in U.S. currency from Barness property. Barnes faces charges of trafficking in 4 grams or more of fentanyl, drug delivery or distribution and unlawful use of a two-way communication device. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers mention that the operation underscores the continuous efforts of the Orlando Police in fighting drug-related crimes and maintaining community safety. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. The Orlando Police Department is asking for the publics help in identifying the parents of a one-week-old infant found alone in a driveway Monday morning. The baby boy was found around 7:20 a.m. in a car seat in the driveway of a home in the 5500 block of Lido Street in east Orlando. He is healthy and being treated at a hospital, according to an OPD news release. The agency did not say who found the infant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police want residents who live near where the baby was found to look at their home security or surveillance footage in case anything was caught on camera. Anyone with information that can help identify and locate the infants parents or guardians can contact the department or submit an anonymous tip by calling Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477) or by visiting crimeline.org, the release said. Awdah Hathaleen, a Palestinian community leader who was a consultant on the Oscar-winning documentary "No Other Land," died Monday after an Israeli settler allegedly shot him to death in the occupied West Bank. "No Other Land" filmmaker and subject Yuval Abraham announced his colleague's death Monday, writing on X (formerly Twitter), "[Hathaleen] just died. Murdered." Two hours prior, Abraham shared video of the confrontation that led to Hathaleen's death. In the video, the settler in a dark shirt can be seen shoving people in a group, pulling out and pointing his pistol in their direction. The video shows him firing at people off-screen. In the caption of his video, Abraham writes that the settler "just shot" Hathaleen in the lungs and identified the shooter as Yinon Levi. Levi was among the 13 hard-line Israeli settlers targeted last year by international sanctions for their alleged attacks and harassment of Palestinians in the West Bank. President Trump lifted U.S. sanctions against the Israelis in January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is him in the video firing like crazy," Abraham tweeted. The incident occurred in in the village of Umm al-Khair, in the Masafer Yatta region that was the focus of "No Other Land." Hathaleen was rushed to a hospital in Israel, where he was pronounced dead, his family confirmed to the New York Times. He was 31. Read more: Famine's toll on the children of Gaza: The world shouldn't look away According to multiple reports, Israeli police said they responded to the scene, detaining and arresting an Israeli citizen. Police did not identify the detainee they took in for questioning, and claimed terrorists hurled rocks toward" the nearby Israeli settlement of Carmel, according to CNN. Additionally, the Israeli military detained five Palestinians and two foreign tourists for their alleged involvement in Monday's incident, the BBC reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to The Times, the Israel Defense Forces on Wednesday accused people it described as "terrorists" of "hurling stones at Israeli civilians near the area of Carmel in the Judea Brigade." IDF said an Israeli civilian "opened fire" it did not identify the suspect at people and "there are reports of casualties." Israeli military and police forces responded to the scene, with the latter investigating the shooting. "No Other Land" filmmaker and Palestinian journalist Basel Adra on Tuesday tweeted video showing the attack from another angle. In this video, Levi is seen with the pistol in his right hand, smacking a person in front of him. The clip also sees Levi raising his right arm and firing off-screen. Adra says Levi "fires the bullet that took" Hathaleen's life, adding in his caption that "the apartheid court decided to release him to house arrest." On Monday, Adra tweeted he was in disbelief about his friend's death: "My dear friend Adwah was slaughtered this evening. He was standing in front of the community center in his village where a settler fired a bullet that pierced his chest and took his life. This is how Israel erases us one life at a time." Read more: 'No Other Land' co-director Hamdan Ballal, bloodied and bruised, released from Israeli custody Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Instagram, the Center for Jewish Nonviolence described Hathaleen as a well-known community figure: "an activist, artist, and teacher in the West Bank community of Masafer Yatta." The activist group reminded Instagram followers that last month Hathaleen and another Palestinian man were denied entry, detained overnight and deported back to the West Bank when they arrived at the San Francisco International Airport. "So many in our community knew Awdah, and gained so much by learning from him, and being his friend," the organization said, concluding its statement with a call to action. "May Awdahs memory be a revolution. May we see justice for Awdah, and justice for all Palestinians, within our lifetime." Earlier this year, Israeli settlers brutalized another member of the Oscar-winning "No Other Land" team. In March, Palestinian filmmaker Hamdan Ballal was beat in his head and stomach by settlers in the village of Susiya in the Masafer Yatta area. Palestinian residents said the settlers, some wearing masks, some carrying guns and some wearing military uniforms, attacked as residents were breaking their fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, according to the Associated Press. Israeli military and police forces detained the filmmaker on suspicion of hurling rocks at IDF and police. Read more: 'Worst-case scenario of famine' is happening in Gaza, food crisis experts warn Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was released a day later, with bruises on his face and blood on his clothes. As he recalled hearing "the voice of soldiers laughing at me," his wife said she felt the international attention surrounding "No Other Land's" Oscar win prompted settlers to "attack us more." The harrowing documentary , which became the subject of controversy in Miami Beach earlier this year, documents Israels demolition of Palestinian villages in Masafer Yatta and the displacement of their communities in favor of Israeli military training grounds. Since Israel launched its war against Hamas nearly two years ago, more than 60,000 Palestinians have been killed, Gazas Health Ministry said Tuesday. At least 77 were killed over the past 24 hours, most while seeking food. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Read more: Over 60,000 Palestinians killed in the 21-month Israel-Hamas war, Gazas Health Ministry says Get notified when the biggest stories in Hollywood, culture and entertainment go live. Sign up for L.A. Times entertainment alerts. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. NEW YORK (PIX11) People of all ages have been plunging into city pools trying to find relief during the extreme heat. Temperatures in Central Park hit 90 degrees for the ninth time this year so far, just days away from August. The extreme heat will linger for half the week, getting worse each day until Wednesday, as temperatures climb near triple digits. More Local News The City has activated its fifth heat emergency this summer and is coordinating with city agencies to help protect the health of New Yorkers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cooling centers are open through Wednesday, and outreach teams are monitoring vulnerable populations. Outdoor pool hours are extended to 8 p.m. through Wednesday at Olympic and intermediate-sized pools. Morning aquatic programs are canceled. The prolonged heat is especially dangerous for people over 60 years old and anyone without air conditioning. Health officials are urging anyone outside, especially those who have to work in the heat, to drink water every 15 minutes and know the signs of heat illness. Heat-related illnesses can be severe and potentially fatal. Click here to see the symptoms of these illnesses and the steps to take if you or someone you know exhibits these symptoms Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For information about cooling centers, dial 311, or click here. The city provides the following indoor cooling options for pet owners. Pet owners should call ahead before visiting. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) More than 60,000 Palestinians have been killed during the Israel-Hamas war, Gazas Health Ministry said Tuesday. Israeli strikes overnight killed more than two dozen people, mostly women and children, according to health officials. The Israeli offensive, launched in response to Hamas' attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, has destroyed vast areas of Gaza, displaced around 90% of the population and fueled a catastrophic humanitarian crisis. Experts warned Tuesday that the territory of about 2 million Palestinians is on the brink of famine after Israeli restrictions and a breakdown of security have made it nearly impossible to safely deliver aid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Health Ministry, part of the Hamas-run government, said that the death toll has climbed to 60,034, with 145,870 others wounded since the war started. The victims include 18,592 children and 9,782 women. Together, they make up nearly half the dead. The ministry, which doesnt distinguish between civilians and combatants in its count, is staffed by medical professionals. The United Nations and other independent experts view its figures as the most reliable count of casualties. Israel has disputed its figures, but hasn't provided its own account of casualties. Dozens killed, most while seeking aid Airstrikes on tents housing displaced people in the built-up Nuseirat refugee camp late Monday killed 30 people, including 12 children and 14 women, according to Al-Awda Hspital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. Israel says it only targets militants and blames civilian deaths on Hamas, saying the militants operate in populated areas. The military said that it targeted Hamas military infrastructure over the past day, including rocket launchers, weapons storage facilities and tunnels. Hospital officials, meanwhile, said that they received the bodies of an additional 33 people who were killed by gunfire around an aid convoy in southern Gaza on Monday, bringing the toll to 58. Witnesses said that Israeli forces fired toward the crowd. Another 14 Palestinians were killed on Tuesday near a site in central Gaza run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, or GHF, an Israeli-backed American contractor, according to local hospitals. GHF said that there were no violent incidents near its sites on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli military said it was not aware of casualties as a result of Israeli gunfire near the GHF site. There was no comment from the military on the shooting near the aid convoy on Monday. More than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire while seeking aid since May, according to witnesses, health officials and the U.N. human rights office. Israel, which controls large areas of Gaza where aid is distributed, says that it has only fired warning shots at those who approach its forces. Hunger crisis dramatically worsens The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC, the foremost international authority on food crises, said that Gaza has teetered on the brink of famine for two years. But it said that recent developments, including Israeli restrictions, have dramatically worsened the situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The facts are in and they are undeniable, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said. Palestinians in Gaza are enduring a humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions The trickle of aid must become an ocean. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar denied that Israel was deliberately starving Gaza, and said that the focus on hunger was part of a distorted campaign of international pressure. This pressure is directly sabotaging the chances for a ceasefire and hostage deal. It is only pushing towards military escalation by hardening Hamass stance, he said Tuesday. The U.S. and Israel have both recalled their negotiating teams over the past week as long-running negotiations over a ceasefire and hostage release seem to have stalled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Palestinians swim for airdropped aid Under mounting international pressure, Israel announced a series of measures over the weekend to increase the flow of aid, including expanded humanitarian corridors and international aid drops. U.N. officials say there has been little change on the ground so far, and much more is needed. Air force cargo planes from Jordan and the United Arab Emirates have dropped aid over Gaza in recent days, and France and Germany have announced plans to join that effort. But Associated Press reporters in Gaza said that much of the aid has fallen in so-called red zones that Israel has ordered people to evacuate from. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dozens of Palestinians raced into the Mediterranean Sea on Tuesday to try and retrieve food from airdropped parcels that went off course. Some could be seen returning with soaked bags of tea and flour. One man held a can of beans. Momen Abu Etayya said that his son had told him to catch the plane when they saw it flying in the distance. I came to try to get aid from the sea. I almost drowned, he said, adding that he had only managed to get three packets of biscuits. U.N. agencies and aid groups have long expressed skepticism about airdrops over Gaza, saying they are far costlier and deliver much less aid than land shipments. Parcels can land on desperate crowds, causing injuries or deaths, and can also spark deadly stampedes as thousands try to reach them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hunger-related deaths The World Health Organization says more than 60 people have died this month from malnutrition-related causes, including 24 children under age 5. Overall, 88 children died of causes related to malnutrition since the start of the war, while 58 adults died this month from malnutrition-related causes, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. During hunger crises, people can die from malnutrition or from common illnesses or injuries that the body isn't strong enough to fight. The ministry doesnt include hunger-related deaths in its overall toll. Hamas-led militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in the attack that sparked the war, and abducted another 251. They are still holding 50 captives, around 20 believed to be alive, after most of the rest were released in ceasefires or other deals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The war took a major turn in early March when Israel imposed a complete 2-month blockade, barring the entry of all food, medicine, fuel and other goods. Weeks later, Israel ended a ceasefire with a surprise bombardment and began seizing large areas of Gaza, measures it said were aimed at pressuring Hamas to release more hostages. At least 8,867 Palestinians have been killed since then. Israel eased the blockade in May, but U.N. agencies say it hasnt allowed nearly enough aid to enter and that they have struggled to deliver it because of Israeli restrictions and the breakdown of law and order. An alternative Israeli-backed system run by GHF has been marred by violence and controversy. ___ Samy Magdy reported from Cairo. Associated Press writer Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv, Israel contributed. ___ Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Metro Communications took over 600 calls for a variety of concerns during Monday nights severe storm. Sioux Falls emergency manager Regan Smith said around 150 of the calls were storm related. PHOTOS: Hudson sees heavy storm damage Most of the damage were seeing is on the west side of town, along with the southwest, Smith, said at Mondays briefing. Smith reminded residents to stay away from down powerlines and encouraged homeowners to contact their power companies if they have outages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dont assume they know about the outage, Smith said. As of 10:35 a.m. around 1,500 people are without power in Sioux Falls. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. HARRISBURG, Pa. (WTAJ) A Pennsylvania lawmaker is proposing a new bill that would allow Indigenous residents to receive free hunting and fishing licenses, recognizing their ancestral connection to the land and long-standing cultural practices. The proposal, introduced by state Rep. Tim Briggs (D-149), would waive the current licensing fees for Indigenous Pennsylvanians who can provide proof of ancestry, regardless of federal or state tribal recognition. Pennsylvania is home to nearly 21,000 Indigenous residents. Briggs said the legislation is designed to acknowledge the historical injustices that led to the displacement of Indigenous peoples and the restriction of their natural rights to hunt and fish freely in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Pennsylvania currently requires all residents to purchase hunting and fishing licenses, the proposed legislation aims to return a measure of autonomy to Indigenous communities by exempting them from those fees. According to the co-sponsorship memo, acceptable documentation to verify Indigenous ancestry would include a variety of records, offering flexibility for applicants. Briggs emphasized the importance of recognizing tribal heritage despite Pennsylvanias lack of state-recognized tribes. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. The legislation has not yet been formally introduced in the General Assembly. It is currently circulating for co-sponsorship support among House members. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. The U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island is seen in downtown Providence from Kennedy Plaza on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. (Photo by Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current) Lawyers representing 17 coalitions against domestic violence arrived in Providences federal court Tuesday to reason why the federal government should be stopped from imposing new eligibility requirements on grants that sustain their missions. Meeting them was a lone trial attorney from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) on behalf of the departments subsidiary, the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). The offices new grant eligibility and verification requirements go into effect Aug. 12, and are basically identical to those applied en masse by President Donald Trumps administration to federal agencies spending priorities namely, that taxpayer money not go toward any grant project seen as contradicting the administrations position against DEI and what it dubs gender ideology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It took over two hours for Senior District Judge William E. Smith to hear both sides arguments in a courtroom packed with advocates. The veteran judge said he would have a verdict ready before Aug. 12, although it would likely be truncated with a memorandum explaining his full reasoning to follow, given the short timeline. But even the cases unique attributes could not suppress Smiths sense of deja vu surrounding certain details, like the feds understanding of gender identity or DEIs impact on statute. Those two things have nothing in particular to do with domestic violence, Smith told Justice Department attorney Kathryn Barragan. Its obvious in this set of conditions they are in pursuit of a larger agenda of the administrationTheyre in the National Endowment for the Arts case, and theyre in every other case. How could having a DEI program or promoting something for transgender folks have any relation to or detrimental effect on preventing domestic violence? Smith asked. Theres a limited number of resources that can be put towards these grant programs, Barragan replied, and she said the agency needs discretion to judge what falls outside its purpose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith presided over the similar National Endowment for the Arts case earlier this year, and ultimately ruled in favor of the government while agreeing with many of the plaintiffs points. That case also centered on what Smith quickly abbreviated this time around as NOFOs. These notices of funding opportunities instruct applicants how federal grantees can spend their awards. Under the Trump-directed grantmaking rules, applicants will also have to certify that any awarded funds comply with the new ideological priorities. In the case of domestic violence survivors, additional stipulations around not assisting undocumented immigrants are similarly harmful and should be negated, the plaintiffs argued. But in the arts funding case, the grants in question were all merit-based and competitive. In this case, the domestic violence coalitions who serve as plaintiffs receive grants funded through a formula. But these organizations still have to accept the new grant conditions by Aug. 12 if they want to receive their next payment. Kristin Bateman, a senior counsel from Democracy Forward and part of the plaintiffs legal team, argued in court that the formula grants these organizations rely on to continue operations are not subject to the same contingencies as merit-based funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congress specified that these are the purposes of the programs, Bateman argued. You have to give this money to these coalitions that have been recognized as the state coalitions, and heres the amount you have to give, and it doesnt provide for any sort of curtailing of that by the agency. Organizations accepting conditions possibly contrary to their mission, Bateman reasoned, would undermine the statutes which allocate and ensure this state-based funding, namely the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Guidelines risk creating havoc Ideological restraints, Bateman noted, are irrelevant to the provision of subsidies. They could also imperil the work of organizations as they now fear prosecution under the False Claims Act, which she argued the federal government could apply to grantees if they promote gender identity even outside grant-funding projects, given the scope of Trumps executive order that first authorized a crackdown on other ideas about gender. Bateman referenced a case involving the San Francisco AIDS Foundation: So what that means is that a grantee who is interacting with a transgender person, a victim whos come in seeking services, would have to treat that transgender woman like a man, would have to use the wrong pronouns, the wrong honorifics, the wrong name, in order to avoid running afoul of this condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teaming up with Bateman for the plaintiffs was Daniel Jacobson, who previously worked in the Obama and Biden administrations but now leads his own practice in Washington, D.C. Jacobson pointed to ways in which the guidelines might create havoc for workers on the ground for their frontline organizations. They need to know if somebody comes in at 11 p.m. whos undocumented and says, I cant go home tonight because I might be abused, Jacobson said. Can they provide that person shelter or not? They cant call up somebody from the Office of Violence Against Women to say, Hey, can you tell me what to do here? Smith appeared attentive to the plaintiffs arguments surrounding chilling effects on grantees programming and free speech. He was slightly more skeptical, or at least inquisitive, of plaintiffs ideas on how the agency action constituted illegality under certain provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act. How could having a DEI program or promoting something for transgender folks have any relation to or detrimental effect on preventing domestic violence? Senior District Judge William E. Smith It is not a crime to, promote or facilitate the violation of federal immigration law, the last I checked, Jacobson said, referencing one of the grant stipulations. We dont even really know how the government would interpret that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some kinds of facilitation of the violation of immigration law certainly would be illegal, Smith replied. And some wouldnt. These terms are not conditions Smith pushed the coalitions to refine their arguments on the spot. His inquiries were sometimes met with a pause from the defendant. These terms are not conditions, Barragan said in her opening remarks about the NOFO language. They simply define what the plaintiffs cannot do under the grant program. Barragan said that there havent been awards issued yet, and there hasnt been an acceptance of those awards, which effectively meant that the grant conditions debated by plaintiffs are not actually final yet they are still proposed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Smith countered that the grant conditions have already been published and disseminated publicly: The department has said, Were going to do this. If you apply, you have to certify to these conditions, and itll be in your grant. So theyre not proposed in that sense, right? Thats true, your honor, but there is still not a final award here, Barragan replied. So the terms could change. The agency doesnt have plans to change the terms, but theres a finality issue here. Smith eventually circled back to the example of using pronouns. If an organization used a victims preferred pronouns when providing services, would that constitute a violation of federal policy? I want to be clear that the [Office on Violence Against Women] position is that using someones pronouns, if youre treating a victim using their pronouns that they would prefer, as a matter of common courtesy, does not violate this out-of-scope funding activity, Barragan replied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rift between the case made in the court and the Office on Violence Against Womens grant conditions was further emphasized by a court declaration from the offices Deputy Director Ginger Baran Lyons. Lyons testimony noted that, in her tenure, the agency has never directed coalitions to turn away immigrants, and that the offices staff are civil servants devoted to seeing that shelter, rape crisis center, police precinct, courthouse, and hospital doors are open to all victims. If that declaration was whats in these policies, we wouldnt even have a case here, Smith said. But theres a complete disconnect between the condition thats in the NOFOs and whats in the declaration. The parties in RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence v. Bondi The following domestic violence and sexual assault coalitions are plaintiffs in the case: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence California Partnership to End Domestic Violence Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin ( The Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence) Idaho Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence Jane Doe Inc. (The Massachusetts Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence) Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence Montana Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence Oregon Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence ValorUS Violence Free Minnesota Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault. The plaintiffs are represented by the ACLU Rhode Island, DeLuca, Weizenbaum, Barry & Revens, Ltd., Democracy Forward, Jacobson Lawyers Group PLLC, and the National Womens Law Center. The defendants include: U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi The U.S. Department of Justice Ginger Baran Lyons, deputy/acting director of the Office on Violence Against Women Office on Violence Against Women SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A student and teacher from a high-performing school with Ysleta Independent School District got the experience of a lifetime this summer. The pair from Valle Verde Early College High School teacher Julietta Rojas and senior Theodora Ordaz were selected as one of only 27 teams nationwide to attend the 2025 Young Peoples Continental Congress in Philadelphia. The conference was held July 14-18. Courtesy of Ysleta ISD Not only did they represent Ysleta ISD at the national conference, but they also particpated in an iHeartRadio Pulso Comunitario podcast, and a PBS segment filmed during the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over five days, students and teachers from across the country came together to dive into our nations founding, engage in conversations, and explore how Americas core ideals have been shaped and reshaped over the past 250 years, YISD said. This all-expenses-paid trip fostered leadership, collaboration, and public speaking skills empowering students to dream big, lead boldly, and make their voices heard as the changemakers of tomorrow, YISD said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. PALESTINE, Texas (KETK) An Anderson County man was arrested early Monday morning after three women were allegedly shot at in Palestine. Crockett woman charged with murder after fentanyl-related death The Palestine Police Department said around 2:38 a.m., officers responded to a home in the 200 block of Lowe Street, where three women had been shot at by Floyd Conley Jr., 50, of Palestine, after one of the victims was shoved out of the home. Mugshot of Floyd Conley, courtesy of Palestine Police Department Officers established a perimeter and took up positions outside the residence, the department said. After several attempts to get the suspect to surrender, officers were able to safely call him out of the home and take him into custody without incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While police were on scene, they found a handgun and multiple shell casings outside the home, but no injuries were reported. Conley was arrested on three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon- family violence and one count of deadly conduct. He is being held at the Anderson County Jail. 3 suspects to face charges linked to series of burglaries at Tatum Baseball Park Our officers acted swiftly and decisively to protect those involved and prevent further violence, the Palestine Police Chief said. I commend them for resolving a dangerous situation without anyone being hurt. You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. Awdah Hathaleen was allegedly shot by Yinon Levi, an extremist sanctioned by the Biden administration, the UK and Canada. Awdah Hathaleen, a Palestinian activist featured in the Oscar-nominated documentary No Other Land, was reportedly killed during clashes with settlers in the village of Umm al-Khair in the West Bank, according to US, Israeli officials, and international organizations. Hathaleen was allegedly shot by Yinon Levi, an extremist previously sanctioned by the Biden administration, the UK and Canada, according to Israeli media reports. Ynet reported that Levi was carrying out construction, and he claimed rioters began throwing stones at him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A judge from the Jerusalem Magistrate's Court ordered Levi to be released from police custody and placed under house arrest, Army Radio reported. Footage published on social media showed protesters blocking bulldozers that had allegedly crossed onto privately owned land. Two additional Palestinians were wounded during the clashes, according to international media. Israel Police confirmed they arrested an Israeli citizen at the scene, and the IDF arrested four Palestinians and two international tourists. Israeli director Yuval Abraham (l) and Palestinian director Basel Adra speak on stage after having received the documentary award for ''No Other Land'' during the 74th Berlinale International Film Festival, Feb. 24, 2024 in Berlin. (credit: JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES/JTA) Eliram Azulai, head of the Mount Hebron Regional Council said following the reports, "We warned and demanded the creation of security spaces around the settlements, and today we saw with our own eyes the danger that illegal construction creates in the area. I demand that the enforcement authorities eradicate this dangerous phenomenon and take immediate action to enforce illegal construction around the settlements and roads for the safety of our residents." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Carmel yeshuv spokeswoman added, "The settlement will not accept a reality in which a Jew is attacked! Certainly not within the settlement area! The incident here could have ended in the murder of a Jew if he had not defended himself. We call on the enforcement authorities to wake up and immediately remove any illegal construction that closes off the Carmel settlement and endangers lives." International mourning for Awdah Hathaleen While sharing a video of the murder, MK Gilad Kariv slammed National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, alleging his actions had emboldened extremists. "Ben Gvir has paralyzed the police. Katz has blocked the Shin Bet's operations. The army continues to turn a blind eye. In the territories, armedJewish militias operate unchecked," Kariv wrote on X. "The bloodshed is already a terrible disaster and demands action, but let no one be under any illusionthis will not stop at the Green Line." California Congresswoman Rep. Lateefah Simon shared her heartbreak at the news of the murder of the father of three, adding that she had demanded answers from the Trump administration on why Hathaleen was "detained and deported" with his cousin despite holding valid visas. She asserted the need for accountability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Left-wing US-based NGO J Street also released a statement mourning Hathaleen, writing that they were both "heartbroken and horrified" by his murder. J Street wrote that Hathaleen had been a partner of the organization and announced that they would be backing the proposed West Bank Violence Prevention Act in response to the growing number of settler attacks. +972 Magazine also mourned his death, noting his contributions to both the outlet and local education. He taught English after receiving his degree from the University of Hebron. No Other Land For months, the international film community has rallied behind a documentary about the Israeli militarys destruction of a Palestinian village in the West Bank that has failed to land a US distributor despite widespread acclaim. Two of the films four nominated directors are Palestinians who live in the West Bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, No Other Land has another feather in its cap. The movie, co-directed by an Israeli-Palestinian filmmaking collective, received an Oscar nomination for best documentary a rare feat for an undistributed film. Andrew Lapin/JTA contributed to this report. A Palestinian activist whose footage documenting life under Israeli occupation was featured in the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land was shot and killed Monday during a confrontation with Israeli settlers, the New York Times reported. Video footage shot by 31-year-old Awdah Hathaleen, a journalist from the small village of Umm al-Khair in the southern West Bank, helped shape No Other Lan, a 2024 documentary that won Best Documentary Feature at the Academy Awards earlier this year. The film was co-directed by Basel Adra and Yuval Abraham. More from TheWrap Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hathaleen was fatally wounded near his home during the clash with settlers and pronounced dead at an Israeli hospital, his family told the Times. Israeli police detained Yinon Levi, a settler who owns an unauthorized outpost near Hebron, on suspicion of reckless conduct resulting in death and unlawful use of a firearm. Levis lawyer had argued that his client fired his weapon in self-defense after being confronted by Palestinians throwing stones, and a judge released him Tuesday to house arrest. The Times reported that it had verified a video in which Levi is seen waving a gun as he tussles with a Palestinian; stones fly overhead before Levi cocks his pistol and fires. The Biden administration imposed sanctions on Levi earlier this year, citing repeated acts of violence and intimidation against Palestinians. Levi, who runs an earthworks company, has reportedly worked alongside Israeli military to bulldoze Palestinian structures. I can hardly believe it, Adra wrote on his X account. My dear friend Awdah was slaughtered this evening.He was standing in front of the community center in his village when a settler fired a bullet that pierced his chest and took his life. This is how Israel erases us one life at a time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roughly 2.7 million Palestinians live in the West Bank, alongside about 500,000 Israeli settlers. Though both populations live under Israeli control, settlers are generally subject to civilian law, while Palestinians remain under military rule. The post Palestinian Activist Featured in No Other Land Shot and Killed in Clash With Israeli Settlers appeared first on TheWrap. Palestinian activist Awdah Hathaleen, who featured in the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land, has been allegedly gunned down and killed in the West Bank adjoining Israel. Yuval Abraham, who co-directed the film with Palestinian filmmaker Basel Adra, claimed on his X page that Israeli settler Yinon Levi had shot Hathaleen, who is also known as Odeh Hadalin and is from the West Bank community of Masafer Yatta. More from The Hollywood Reporter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Israeli settler just shot Odah Hadalin in the lungs, a remarkable activist who helped us film No Other Land in Masafer Yatta. Residents identified Levi, sanctioned by the EU and U.S., as the shooter. This is him in the video firing like crazy, Abraham posted. The Israeli filmmaker included a video that apparently shows Levi with a gun in hand and in a confrontation with Palestinians. Co-director Adra on his own X page posted the statement: This is the settler who killed our dear friend Awdah Hathaleen. At the end of the video, he fires the bullet that took the life of Awdah. Today, the apartheid court decided to release him to house arrest. Yinon Levi, a settler sanctioned by 9 countries (now 8, because of Trump). The Hollywood Reporter has also independently verified that the July 28 incident that led to the death of Hadalin took place. Its understood Levi was arrested after the shooting incident and has since been released and is now held under house arrest. Levi is also subject to financial sanctions and a travel ban from the EU due to serious human rights violations and abuses first imposed in April 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. under President Joe Biden in Feb. 2024 sanctioned Levi for leading violent extremist groups in the West Bank, but those measures against Levi were lifted by the Trump administration in Jan. 2025. The No Other Land documentary, made by a Palestinian-Israeli collective and which premiered at the Berlin Film Festival, shows the destruction of the occupied West Banks Masafer Yatta by Israeli soldiers. The film also centers on the filmmaking partnership between co-directors Adra and Abraham. Another of the No Other Land co-directors, Palestinian filmmaker Hamdan Ballal, was injured and detained after a conflict that took place on the West Bank in March. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) A Palestinian humanitarian activist who was previously denied entry into the United States after arriving at San Francisco International Airport last month was killed Monday in an attack in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, according to U.S. Congresswoman Lateefah Simon. Awdah Hathaleen, who was a Palestinian community leader and English teacher, was fatally shot in his village of Umm al-Khair, Simon said. The Israeli military said an armed Israeli civilian opened fire at a group of Palestinians after they threw rocks, according to Associated Press reporting. Photo of Awdah Hathaleen (left). Courtesy of Phillip Weintraub. Hathaleen, who helped film the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land, was invited to the San Francisco Bay Area last month by local faith communities to speak about his experiences. After arriving at SFO on June 12, he was detained at the airport by U.S. Customs and Border Protection before eventually being deported back to the Middle East. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Simon, both Hathaleen and his cousin, whom he was traveling with, held valid visas. No Other Land won Best Documentary Feature at the 2025 Academy Awards and depicts residents of the West Bank struggling to stop the Israeli military from demolishing Palestinian villages. According to the movies director, Basel Adra, Hathaleen was killed in an area documented in the film. Palestinians gather at the community of Umm Al-Khair near Hebron, to pay their respects and mourn the killing of Awdah Al-Hathaleen, who was shot by an Israeli right-wing settler the previous day. (Photo by Ilia Yefimovich/picture alliance via Getty Images) Palestinians gather at the community of Umm Al-Khair near Hebron, to pay their respects and mourn the killing of Awdah Al-Hathaleen, who was shot by an Israeli right-wing settler the previous day. (Photo by Ilia Yefimovich/picture alliance via Getty Images) Protesters at SFO call for the release of Awdah Hathaleen and his cousin who were detained at the airport after being invited to to speak at events in the Bay Area. (KRON4) Protesters at SFO call for the release of Awdah Hathaleen and his cousin who were detained at the airport after being invited to to speak at events in the Bay Area. (KRON4) Executive Director Zahra Billoo of the Council on American-Islamic Relations SF Bay Area office said, We mourn alongside his family and the Bay Area communities who had hoped to hear his story firsthand. The U.S. government must be held accountablenot only for denying entry to Hathaleen when he sought to speak truth to power here, but also for continuing to fund and shield a regime that enables this violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip has surpassed 60,000 after almost 22 months of fighting between Israel and the Palestinian militant organization Hamas, local authorities said on Tuesday. A total of 60,034 people have been killed, and another 145,870 wounded, the Hamas-controlled health authority said in a statement. The majority of the victims are said to be women, minors and elderly people, according to the authority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The figures do not distinguish between civilians and fighters and cannot be independently verified, however international organizations such as the United Nations consider them to be largely credible. Israel launched a large-scale military campaign in Gaza following the unprecedented Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. Some 1,200 people were killed in the massacre and more than 250 abducted to Gaza. While the majority of the hostages have since been released as part of a number of short-lived ceasefire agreements, some 50 abductees are still in the Strip, with 20 still believed to be alive, according to Israel. Israel's campaign, the stated aim of which is to eliminate Hamas and free the hostages, has reduced much of the sealed-off coastal territory to rubble, with some 90% of the approximately 2 million Gazans displaced at least once amid the fighting, according to aid organizations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gaza's civilian infrastructure including hospitals, schools, mosques and businesses has been largely destroyed. Meanwhile Israel faces accusations of deliberately starving Gazans after it severely limited the influx of aid in March. Hundreds of lorries carrying aid have been allowed to enter the Gaza Strip since Sunday, as Israel appears to have relented to an international outcry sparked by the deepening humanitarian crisis in the territory. By Tala Ramadan JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Israel's military offensive on the Gaza Strip has killed at least 60,000 Palestinians since Oct. 7, 2023, the enclave's health ministry said, a conflict that has devastated the coastal territory and triggered a humanitarian crisis. Most of the Palestinians killed are civilians according to the enclave's health authorities. The ministry said on Tuesday that the number of injured is 145,870, while thousands remain missing under the rubble of destroyed buildings and areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The war began after Gaza's dominant Palestinian militant group Hamas carried out a cross-border attack on southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages, according to Israeli authorities. Israel's subsequent air and ground campaign has leveled entire neighbourhoods in Gaza, displaced most of the population of 2.3 million, and pushed the enclave to the brink of famine, according to the United Nations. Israel says its operations are aimed at dismantling Hamas' military capabilities and securing the release of hostages. The military says it has killed thousands of Hamas fighters in Gaza and destroyed hundreds of kilometers of tunnels used by the militants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fighting has drawn international condemnation and calls for a ceasefire, with global aid agencies warning of a collapse of essential services and rampant outbreaks of disease. The latest round of indirect ceasefire talks in Doha between Israel and Hamas broke off last week with no deal in sight. HUMANITARIAN CATASTROPHE Much of Gaza has been devastated during over 21 months of conflict, raising concerns about worsening starvation. Israel says Hamas is to blame for harm to civilians throughout the war, because its fighters operate among them, which the militants deny. It says it has allowed enough food into Gaza, and blames the United Nations for failing to distribute it. The U.N. says it has operated as effectively as possible under severe restrictions imposed by Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Palestinian health officials have warned that hundreds of people could soon perish as hospitals are overwhelmed with patients experiencing dizziness and exhaustion amid severe food shortages and a breakdown in aid deliveries. The head of the U.N. Palestinian refugee agency, UNRWA, said that its staff, as well as doctors and humanitarian workers, were fainting on duty in Gaza due to hunger and exhaustion. After images of starving Palestinians alarmed the world in recent weeks, Israel announced on Sunday a halt in military operations for 10 hours a day in parts of Gaza and new aid corridors. Aid trucks began moving towards Gaza from Egypt, while Jordan and the United Arab Emirates airdropped supplies into the enclave. (Reporting by Tala Ramadan in Dubai, Editing by Mark Heinrich and Peter Graff) Israeli soldiers have killed at least 13 people near a distribution centre for humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip, Palestinian sources said on Tuesday. Additionally, some 105 Palestinians were injured in the incident near the Netzarim Corridor in the middle of the coastal strip, according to medical sources at the nearby al-Awda Hospital. The information could not initially be independently verified. The Israeli military has not yet commented on the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The distribution point at the Netzarim Corridor is operated by the controversial US-Israeli-supported Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Fatal incidents frequently occur around the four GHF centres in the Gaza Strip. One accusation is that Israeli soldiers, who are supposed to secure the area, have repeatedly fired into the crowd of those seeking aid. The army denies this. According to UN figures, around 900 people have died in this manner. The Israeli military usually claims that the soldiers fire warning shots into the air. The GHF centres are internationally criticized because those seeking aid can only reach them via long routes across the embattled territory. According to media reports, large crowds are forced tp move through active combat zones, thus entering the line of fire of Israeli positions. The Palm Beach County School District expressed "relief" that it will receive nearly $32 million in education funding that had been held up by the Trump administration. "This resolution ensures we can continue delivering critical programs and services that support our students, families, and educators," Sean Cooley, the district's chief strategic comunications and engagement officer, said in a prepared statement. The $31.5 million is part of a $7 billion chunk of federal education dollars the administration withheld from states despite the fact that Congress had already approved its appropriation. The money, which was supposed to be deposited into district accounts on July 1, pays for teacher training, after-school care and various academic services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration said it withheld the $7 billion so its Office of Management and Budget could conduct a review. Presidents typically have limited ability to withhold funds Congress has already appropriated. Trump, however, has sought to expand that authority greatly, freezing billions of congressionally approved spending in a variety of areas, including foreign aid, scientific research and education. More: After-school care, 200 staff, more on the line as feds withhold $31.5M from county schools Withholding money for schools gets bipartisan pushback The president has said he wants to close the U.S. Department of Education, which he and other Republicans argue has wasted taxpayer money and failed to improve student performance. Congressionally created agencies like the Department of Education typically can't be abolished by presidential decree, but the U.S. Supreme Court recently removed a lower court injunction blocking Trump from firing 1,300 of the agency's roughly 4,400 employees, a move critics argue is aimed at gutting the agency. The administration's decision to withhold the $7 billion in federal education funding drew bipartisan pushback, including from some Republicans who have been critical of the Department of Education but dismayed by the prospect of districts in their areas losing money from it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration initially released more than $1 billion of the withheld money, saying its review of that money was complete. But with more than $5 billion still held up, the demand for the release of that money grew stronger. Democrats blasted funding freeze Last week, Democrats in the Florida House signed a letter asking Gov. Ron DeSantis and state Attorney General James Uthmeier to join the more than two dozen states that filed suit against the Trump administration challenging the legality of its education funding freeze. "For Florida, this freeze is not theoretical," the House Democrats wrote. "Its real money being held hostage, with tangible harm to our school districts, working families and children. Programs are being delayed or dismantled. School districts have had to freeze hiring and may soon have to start laying off staff. Local leaders are left in limbo. While other states are taking action, Florida is conspicuously absent." The letter could have put top Florida Republicans in the uncomfortable position of choosing between a fight against an often vengeful Republican president or staying silent as school districts across the state lose hundreds of millions in education funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration, however, made that choice moot, announcing on July 25 that it was releasing the last chunk of the withheld education money. "We are grateful this decision came ahead of the new school year," Cooley said. "We appreciate the efforts of the Florida education commissioner, who worked on behalf of Floridas school districts. We also thank the members of Congress who advocated for the release of these funds." Wayne Washington is a journalist covering education for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at wwashington@pbpost.com. Help support our work; subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Palm Beach County schools to get $32M held up by Trump administration Two antitrust officials at the Justice Department have received their pink slips. The fired officials, Roger Alford and Bill Rinner, were both responsible for preventing monopolies and investigating anticompetitive behavior amongst corporations. Their grounds for dismissal were not immediately apparent, though sources that spoke with CBS News Monday night claimed that their termination notices mentioned insubordination. Alford and Rinner worked under Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater, the chief of the division. Alford was principal deputy assistant attorney general and Rinner was the deputy assistant attorney general, fronting merger enforcement. Slater had recently taken on lawsuits against several major companies, including Capital One, Apple, and Google. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their department had become the subject of criticism from some business leaders and colleagues. Earlier this month, CBS News reported that internal friction within the team had led to conversations about potentially pushing staffers out. On July 17, Slater met at the White House with the Office of Budget and Management, the National Economic Council, and the Federal Trade Commission. Staffers at those agencies have started to question if Slater is truly prioritizing Donald Trumps policies, or whether she is walking her own path. Some of the teams disagreements were sparked during investigations into T-Mobile and Hewlett Packard Enterprise, among others, according to sources that spoke with CBS. Business leaders were reportedly unhappy with Slater after she warned them not to engage with the administration via Trump-aligned lobbyists and consultants. In one meeting between Hewlett Packard Enterprise and its prospective purchase Juniper Networks, Slater said that the businesses should only work through Justice Department officials, rather than outside consultantsfor HPE, Trump allies Mike Davis and Arthur Schwartz, according to CBS News. Businesses raised concerns with the White House over conversations of that nature, with leaders wondering why the DOJ was instructing them on whom they could hire. A group of parents who claimed their children's school had breached their human rights by repeatedly placing them in isolation have lost a High Court legal challenge. The parents had brought a claim against The GORSE Academies Trust (TGAT), which runs John Smeaton Academy in Leeds, which all three pupils involved in the case attended. They had claimed the extent to which the school used isolation - where pupils study alone away from their peers as a form of punishment - was "disproportionate" and "unreasonable" in each child's case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the judge, Mrs Justice Collins Rice, said she could find no legal basis for a court to intervene on the matter. TGAT, which runs 15 schools and educational establishments across Leeds, welcomed the ruling. The parents' lawyer said the families were "extremely disappointed" by the decision and that they would consider appealing. The three pupils, all of whom had their identities protected by the court, had spent a combined 154 school days in isolation during the 2023-24 academic year between them, according to the judge's written ruling. Two of the youngsters had a record of violence against fellow pupils and staff, while the third had a persistent record of poor behaviour, which included "defiance" and truancy, the judgement added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their parents did not challenge the principle of isolation or the school's right to use it as a form of discipline, but had claimed the repeated extent to which it was used was unlawful. They said it breached government guidance on school discipline, as well as the Education and Inspections Act and the pupils' right to private life under Article 8 of the Human Rights Act. It was claimed the youngsters had found isolation to be "unproductive, unpleasant, stressful and distressing". But the judge said each sanction was in line with the school's policy and that it was expected that repeated misconduct "be met with persistent, and indeed escalating, sanctioning". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also said it was not "obvious" what the alternative punishment should have been. 'Strong message' TGAT took over John Smeaton Academy in 2021, two years after it had been rated inadequate by Ofsted when it was, according to the judge's ruling, "among the worst schools in the country". In 2024 it was then rated 'good' by the schools watchdog, who praised it for its "consistent 'positive discipline' approach". Responding to the ruling, a TGAT spokesperson said: "The judgment is a clear endorsement of the work we have done over many years to promote high standards of behaviour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It sends a strong message across the education sector about the right of schools to apply appropriate sanctions when behaviour falls short - for the benefit of all pupils, and ultimately, each individual child." But the parents' lawyer Dan Rosenborg said that while the ruling "provides little reprieve" for the families involved, "it is their hope that the case will shine a wider public light on the issues raised - both within their own trust and in schools across the country". He added: "In particular, they urge policymakers to give serious consideration to the now widespread and repeated use of isolation in mainstream schools, especially in the context of ongoing conversations about how best to support and include children with special educational needs and disabilities." Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North. Related stories Related internet links Parents voice concerns about potential closures in Pittsburgh Public School District Parents in the Pittsburgh Public School District spoke out against the potential closures of two school buildings Monday night. Parent and substitute teacher Emily Sawyer says her child will be out of Manchester Pre-K-8 by the time any changes take effect, but shes questioning the reasoning behind the potential closure. We say schools like Manchester cannot exist with such small enrollment because dollars follow students, but we know dollars dont have to follow students in the same way at every school because programs like the gifted center and capa exist where small class sizes are a feature, not a bug, Sawyer said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Parents speak out as Pittsburgh Public School board nears vote to start process of closing schools Also on the chopping block is the Schiller STEAM Magnet School. Parent Justin Williams says the STEAM program is the only reason his family chose Schiller. We hear a lot about equity in the future ready plan, but closing the STEAM magnet at Schiller while keeping others like Arsenal, Sci-Tech and Capa, doesnt feel like equity. It feels like inconsistency, Williams said. Pittsburgh public is considering closing 12 schools across nine buildings. Public hearings are set for tomorrow on Fulton Pre-K-5 and Spring Hill Pre-K-5. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW Police swarmed Midtown Manhattan on Monday as the mayor of New York City said there was "an active shooter investigation" amid reports a police officer had been struck. "New Yorkers: there is an active shooter investigation taking place in Midtown right now. Please take proper safety precautions if you are in vicinity and do not go outside if you are near Park Avenue and East 51st Street," Mayor Eric Adams wrote on X. Police officers deployed a drone near Park Avenue at the height of the evening rush-hour as dozens of officers gathered in the area, some carrying long guns and others wearing ballistic vests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A number of ambulances had gathered in the vicinity. Officers at the scene confirmed to an AFP correspondent that there was a shooter but gave no other details. CNN reported that a police officer and at least one civilian had been shot, but AFP was unable to immediately confirm that. Police repeatedly pushed back journalists and members of the public who gathered to see what was happening in the normally calm but busy area of Midtown Manhattan. The area is home to several five-star business hotels, as well as a number of corporate headquarters, including Colgate Palmolive and KPMG, the auditor. gl/gw/mlm NEED TO KNOW Passengers evacuated a Turkish Airlines flight on Tuesday, July 29, after crews spotted smoke in the landing gear All 247 passengers and 13 crew members evacuated safely without injury The incident follows an American Airlines flight that evacuated at Denver International Airport after a "mechanical issue" on July 26 Passengers onboard a Turkish Airlines flight were evacuated after smoke was spotted in the landing gear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In video footage obtained by local Turkish outlet Mynet, passengers are seen panicking at the foot of deployed emergency exit slides. Both adults and children run away from the aircraft as rescue crews appear in the background. The Boeing 777-300 departed Istanbul and made a normal landing at Antalya Airport on July 29. However, ground crews saw something out of the ordinary emerging from the landing gear. Smoke was observed emanating from the landing gear during taxiing, which was noticed by the air traffic controller and reported to the pilot, Enes Cakmak, a leader of Turkeys General Directorate of State Airports Authority, said in a translated post on X. He added: Subsequently, swift coordination was established between the control tower and ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting) units, and our teams promptly arrived at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All 247 passengers and 13 crew members evacuated. No injuries were reported. Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto via Getty Stock image of a Turkish Airlines plane Stock image of a Turkish Airlines plane https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf A video shared by Cakmak on X shows firefighters on the tarmac spraying water on the landing gear. Two photos capture the plane with its emergency exit slides deployed. Another clip shows the plane safely towed after inspection. I extend my gratitude to all my colleagues, particularly our air traffic control and ARFF teams, who acted promptly and effectively with their professional reflexes, Cakmak said in his post. I hope such an incident does not occur again. Yahya Ustun, Turkish Airlines senior vice president of communications, said a technical malfunction caused the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Technical inspections of the aircraft have been initiated by our authorized teams, he wrote on X. Initial findings indicate that the smoke was caused by a technical malfunction in the hydraulic pipe. Earlier this week, an American Airlines flight caught fire due to a mechanical issue with the landing gear. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up to date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. On Saturday, July 26, the Miami-bound flight was forced to evacuate shortly before takeoff at Denver International Airport after experiencing a mechanical issue involving an aircraft tyre and flames, the airlines said in a statement to PEOPLE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The combination of blown tires and the deceleration of the aircraft during braking resulted in a minor isolated brake fire that was quickly extinguished by the Denver Fire Department, the airline concluded. There were 173 passengers on board and six crew members. One passenger was transported to the hospital with a minor injury, American Airlines confirmed to PEOPLE. Footage from the incident was posted on Instagram showing passengers evacuating the smoking plane via an inflatable emergency exit slide. Those with small children held onto their kids as they went down. The Federal Aviation Administration said it is investigating the incident. Read the original article on People EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A 34-year-old man was arrested after evading arrest earlier this month in Horizon City, according to the Horizon Police Department. Police say on Saturday, July 19, they were dispatched to the 15000 block of Werling Court in reference to a domestic dispute. Through a witness statement, officers were able to identify Angel Omar Loya Rojas, 34, who caused damage to the victims vehicle using a metal pipe, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loya Rojas was located, who then began a foot pursuit with police. He was later arrested and charged with evading arrest or detention and criminal mischief, police said. He was transported to the El Paso County Facility, where he was booked under a $22,500 bond. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. CHULA VISTA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) A pedestrian was hit and killed by a vehicle in Chula Vista Monday afternoon, and the driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI. Chula Vista Police officers arrived at the 4200 block of Bonita Road near Allen School Road around 1:30 p.m. Monday for reports of a pedestrian hit by a car. Chula Vista Police Monday evening reports the driver of a Toyota Prius was heading east when he didnt make a turn, crossed into oncoming traffic, hit a parked vehicle and drove onto the sidewalk before hitting a maintenance worker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers and first responders attempted life-saving measures on the 46-year-old maintenance worker, but they died at the scene, according to the police department. Authorities have not yet identified the victim. Pedestrian fatally struck by vehicle in Chula Vista (FOX 5/KUSI) Police arrested the driver of the vehicle 28-year-old Alexander Heydari on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs and vehicular manslaughter while impaired, according to Chula Vista police. He was not injured in the collision. Chula Vista Police on social media said Bonita Road at Allen School Road was blocked in all directions as officers investigated the fatal collision and asked the public to avoid the area. The Chula Vista Police Traffic Bureau is investigating the cause and circumstances of the fatal collision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone that witnessed the collision or has more information is asked to contact the Chula Vista Police Department Traffic Bureau at 619-476-2428. Check back for updates on this breaking story. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. DENVER (KDVR) A pedestrian was killed in Aurora after she was hit in a crash early Tuesday morning. Just after 7 a.m., the Aurora Police Department said a 72-year-old woman, who was a pedestrian, was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries and later died after a crash in the area of South Havana Street and East Jewell Avenue. See the latest traffic conditions in Denver on FOX31 This is between the Dayton Triangle and Village East neighborhoods, near Ponderosa Elementary School and Havana Square. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aurora police in a press release said the woman was using a walker and crossing Jewell as vehicles were stopped at a red light when she hit a hole in the pavement and fell into traffic. The woman was not using a crosswalk, police said. The driver remained on the scene, and police confirmed it wasnt a hit and run. At the time of the crash, police closed two southbound lanes of Havana Street at Jewell Avenue and closed all eastbound and westbound Jewell Avenue lanes. The roadways were reopened just before 9 a.m. Police said the departments traffic unit is continuing to investigate the crash, and at this time, the circumstances around the crash are still being determined. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jacob Factor contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) A male pedestrian was injured on Tuesday after he was struck by bricks that reportedly fell from the Liberty Building downtown, Buffalo police said. Emergency crews responded to the building around 1:10 p.m. It was reported that the pedestrian was awake and alert at the scene after being hit in the head by the bricks. He was transported to the hospital for evaluation. Falling debris is believed to be from the 13th floor. An investigation into the cause of the incident and the condition of the building is underway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are very thankful no one was seriously hurt. Safety is one of our top priorities and we consistently take preventive measures to ensure the safety and security of the building both inside and out, a spokesperson for the Liberty Building said in a statement. Thanks to the Buffalo Police and Buffalo Fire Departments for their efforts this afternoon. We are in the process of securing the area in question and evaluating the building facade with our experts to determine if additional measures are necessary. Latest Local News Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. (WHTM) Its been six months since Republican Dave Sunday took over as Pennsylvanias Attorney General. What grade does he give himself, and what are his Democratic critics saying of his early tenure? Im a hard grader, said Sunday. Im a very hard grader, so Id give myself probably a B, I would say. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now This Week in Pennsylvania Sunday says being the York County District Attorney prepared him well for the empathy needed when dealing with crime victims on their worst day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre not just a number, like theyre humans that have had really bad things happen to them, said Sunday. Thats not just a decision you make and sign off on. Its a life thats impacted. Sunday concedes hes learning the ropes on the civil side. If anyone sues a state agency, the AG defends it. Consumer protection is his top priority, specifically the downside of artificial intelligence. The bad guys are using every technology thats available to be more effective in trying to scam Pennsylvanians, in particular, senior citizens, said Sunday. We have one of the highest populations of aging populations in the country, and so because of that, we are a huge, giant target for these bad actors. Democratic critics like consultant Brittany Crampsie blast Sunday for not suing the Trump Administration over funding cuts to schools, birthright citizenship, and not fulfilling a SNAP contract. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dozens of other states use their office of Attorney General, said Crampsie. He has full strength of that office to act on behalf of citizens, and Dave Sunday has not engaged. Youve got Attorneys General from all stripes that file lawsuit after lawsuit after lawsuit to get a press hit, to have a press conference and scream and yell about the political issue of the day, and then what happens? asked Sunday. A lot of those lawsuits, they just go away and nothing ever comes out of them. Shapiro goes after Trump administration in lawsuit over federal funds Sundays reluctant to tangle with Trump and state lawmakers who are mulling the legalization of skill games and recreational marijuana, which Sunday believes will lead to more impaired driving and is a public safety threat. However, Sunday says his office will support any decision made by the state legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I will defend statutes unless and until theyre determined to be unconstitutional, said Sunday. Thats the role of the AG. Sunday says his personal opinion doesnt come into play, and it shouldnt. Its worth noting that the last four out of five elected Attorneys General ran for Governor, successfully so for Tom Corbett and Josh Shapiro. Is Sunday thinking about it? I ran for AG to be the Attorney General, period, Sunday said. I think that one of the issues that we see in society is that people are constantly seeking the next thing, and arent focused on the task at hand, and Im not calling anyone out. Im being very specific about that. Sunday says one of the biggest challenges of the job personally is spending so much time away from his wife and 10-year-old son. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. (WHTM) A lawmaker wants to give Pennsylvanias indigenous people free fishing and hunting licenses. State Rep. Tim Briggs (D-149) is proposing legislation that allows for Pennsylvanians who provide proof of indigenous ancestry to receive licenses for both hunting and fishing. There are no federally recognized tribes in Pennsylvania, but the state remains home to more than 20,000, according to the memo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Severe Weather Alerts Pennsylvania is home to indigenous tribes, including the Erie, Iroquois Confederacy, Shawnee, Ohio Valley, Munsee, Susquehannock, and Lenni Lenape, per the memo. State Rep. Briggs argues that indigenous people should be allowed to hunt freely on land that was colonized by settlers. As legislators, it is our duty to identify and right the wrongs of our predecessors, regardless of if it has been three or three hundred years, the memo says. This bill has not yet been submitted for introduction. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. Three Pennsylvania lawmakers have proposed a bill that would make schools across the state phone-free. In a memo issued Monday, Sen. Devlin Robinson (R-37), Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-7), and Sen. Steven Santarsiero (D-10) said they plan to introduce legislation to ban phones during the school day. Several studies have looked at how smartphones can impact a childs mental health. A new study recently published by the Journal of Human Development and Capabilities found that children who receive smartphones before the age of 13 were significantly more likely to experience serious mental health problems in early adulthood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the memo, the average age for a child to have a smartphone in Pennsylvania is 10 1/2. The impact of these addictive devices in schools cannot be ignored. Academic achievement declined over this same period as the use of smartphones rose, the lawmakers stated in the memo. In 2012, math and reading scores dropped for the first time in 25 years, beginning a downward trend that continues today. We know phones are not only a distraction for the owner of the phone, but the entire class is disrupted by the constant ringing, buzzing, and checking of these devices. This not only results in learning loss for students, but it creates a frustrating environment for educators who try to maintain focus and order in the classroom. If the bill is passed, Pennsylvania would join 27 other states that already restrict cell phones in schools. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here. Sign up for National Security, a newsletter featuring coverage of rising authoritarianism, military intelligence, and geopolitical conflicts. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has scanned the horizon for threats, and sure enough, he has found a new group of dangerous adversaries: think tanks, the organizations in the United States and allied nations that do policy research and advocate for various ideas. They must be stopped, according to a Defense Department announcement, because they promote the evil of globalism, disdain for our great country, and hatred for the president of the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This particular bit of McCarthyist harrumphing was the rationalization the Pentagon gave more than a week ago for pulling out of the Aspen Security Forum, a long-running annual conference routinely attended by business leaders, military officers, academics, policy analysts, foreign officials, and top government leaders from both parties, including many past secretaries of defense. For good measure, the Defense Department spokesperson Sean Parnell invoked the current holy words of the Hegseth Pentagon: The Aspen forum, he said, did not align with the departments efforts to increase the lethality of our war fighters, revitalize the warrior ethos and project peace through strength on the world stage. The Aspen gathering is not exactly a secret nest of Communists. This years roster of speakers included former CIA Director Robert Gates, former Secretary of Defense Mark Espera Trump appointeeand a representative from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbans office, among many others. John Phelan, the current secretary of the Navy, and Admiral Samuel Paparo, the head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, were set to attend as well. [Read: The Pentagons policy guy is all in on China] Nor is Hegseth content just to stop Americas intellectual enemies cold at the Rockies: The Pentagon last week suspended Defense Department participation in all such activities, functionally a blanket ban on any interaction with think tanks or other civilian institutions that hold conferences, convene panels, and invite speakers. The New York Times reported that the order to pull out of Aspen came from Hegseth personally. And as Politico first reported, the larger ban appears to extend to gatherings hosted by nonprofit military associations, such as Sea Air Space, which is led by the Navy League, the military services largest veteran organization, and Modern Day Marine, a similar trade show for the Marine Corps. The Pentagon also specifically banned attendance at the Halifax International Security Forum, which takes place in Nova Scotia each winter and where the Pentagon chief is usually a top guest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Take that, Canada. Right now, no one seems certain of how this new policy works. Hegseth appears to have suspended all such participation subject to additional review by the Pentagons public-affairs office and general counsel, so perhaps some defense officials could one day end up attending conferences after their requests have been vetted. Good luck with that, and best wishes to the first Pentagon employee who pops up out of their cubicle to request a pass to attend such meetings. At some point soon, this prohibition will almost certainly be lifted, but why did Hegseths Pentagon impose it in the first place? I am a former Defense Department employee who, over the course of my career, attended (and spoke at) dozens of conferences at various think tanks and other organizations, and I will make an educated guess based on experience: The main reasons are resentment, insecurity, and fear. The most ordinary reason, resentment, predates Hegseth. Government service is not exactly luxurious, and many trips are special perks that generate internal gripes about who gets to go, where they get to stay, and so on. (These trips are not exactly luxurious either, but in my government-service days, I learned that some people in the federal service chafe when other employees get free plane tickets to visit nice places.) Its possible that someone who has never been invited to one of these things convinced Hegsethwho seems reluctant to attend such events himselfthat these meetings are just boondoggles and that no one should go. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bureaucratic pettiness, however, isnt enough of an explanation. One hazard for people like Hegseth and his lieutenants at a place like Aspen or the International Institute of Strategic Studies or the Halifax conference is that these are organizations full of exceptionally smart people, and even experienced and knowledgeable participants have to be sharp and prepared when theyre onstage and in group discussions. The chance of being outclassed, embarrassed, or just in over ones head can be very high for unqualified people who have senior government jobs. Hegseth himself took a pass on the Munich Security Conference (usually a good venue for a new secretary of defense), and instead decided to show videos of himself working out with the troops. We can all admire Hegseths midlife devotion to staying fit and modeling a vigorous exercise regimen for the troops (who must exercise anyway, because they are military people and are ordered to do it), but America and its allies would probably benefit more from a secretary with an extra pound here and there who could actually stand at a podium in Munich or London and explain the administrations strategic vision and military plans. The overall prohibition on conferences provides Hegseth and his deputies (many of whom have no serious experience with defense issues) with an excuse for ducking out and avoiding making fools of themselves. But perhaps the most obvious and Trumpian reason for the Pentagons brainpower lockdown is fear. Officials in this administration know that the greatest risk to their careers has nothing to do with job performance; if incompetence were a cause for dismissal, Hegseth would have been gone months ago. The far greater danger comes from the chance of saying something in public that gets the speaker sideways with Trump and turns his baleful stare across the river to the Pentagon. The Trump administration doesnt like dissent, I think thats pretty clear, a Republican political strategist and previous Aspen attendee told The Hill last week. And they dont like dissenting views at conferences. The problem for Trump officials is that dissent can mean almost anything, because the strategic direction of the United States depends on the presidents moods, his grievances, and his interactions with others, including foreign leaders. Everything can change in the space of a post on Truth Social. To step forward in a public venue and say anything of substance is a risk; the White House is an authoritarian bubble, and much like the Kremlin in the old Soviet Union, the man in charge can decide that what is policy today could be heresy tomorrow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Read: When Pete Hegseths Pentagon tenure started going sideways] In the end, banning attendance at meetings where defense officials can exchange ideas with other intelligent people islike so much else in this administrationa policy generated by pettiness and self-protection, a way to batten down the Pentagons hatches so that no one speaks out or screws up. If this directive stays in place for even a few years, however, it will damage relationships among the military, defense officials, business leaders, academics, and ordinary Americans. Public conferences are part of the American civil-military relationship. Sometimes, these are events such as Aspen, where senior officials present policies or engage their critics under a national spotlight; other gatherings at various nongovernmental organizations help citizens understand what, exactly, their government is doing. At academically oriented meetings, members of the defense community gather ideas, debate, discuss, and sometimes establish contacts for future research and exchanges. Retired Army Colonel Jeffrey McCausland, who served on the National Security Council staff and as the dean of the Army War College, told me that the Pentagons shortsightedness could prevent important civil-military exchanges about national defense, and he wonders how far such prohibitions will go: Might the new directive mean that the guy who teaches history at West Point or a war college, for example, cant go to a history conference and be a better history professor? Maybe someone is mad that they didnt get to go to Colorado or Canada; perhaps someone else is worried that accepting an invitation could be career suicide. Somehow, the Pentagon has managed to engage productively in such events for decades, under administrations of both parties. But Hegseth, after a string of embarrassmentsMcCausland points to the lingering radioactivity of Signalgatehas apparently chosen a safety-first approach. Unfortunately, the secretary still has to appear in public, and the chances of yet more stumbles from him and his team are high. But at least hell be able to reassure the American public that the upright employees of the Pentagon wont be wined and dined by politically suspect eggheads. Besides, when people get together and start thinking, anything can happen. Better safe than sorry. Article originally published at The Atlantic It is a sad state that fear of liability will oftentimes negate the moral choice made by a terminally ill patient. Journal of Air Law and Commerce Background In August 2024, I gave a presentation, Youre suing me because I kept your mom alive? Avoiding wrongful life lawsuits. I discussed the consequences for medical staff when they disregard a valid DNR and revive a person, against their wishes. There are numerous nationwide lawsuits against doctors and others for overriding a patients DNR, violating their autonomy and patient rights. After my presentation, the owner of a non-emergency medical transport company, Flying Angels, asked me if DNRs must be followed while in flight. He claimed, and my research confirms, that the flight crew protocol is to ignore a DNR and try to resuscitate the person. Legal authority to revive No federal law or legal precedent grants airlines the right to follow or override a DNR. They do this due to legalities surrounding a mid-air medical emergency, including ambiguities in aviation law, no clear legal guidance, airline policy, flight deviation costs, safety concerns, and jurisdiction of state-specific DNRs. Here are two examples of the policy. Centers for Disease Control Yellow Book: Health information for international travel edition: 2026: If a traveler has a DNR order, you may choose to heed this. Despite this documentation, be aware that individual airline policies might require flight attendants to attempt resuscitation. Hawaiian Airlines in their contract of carriage: We will not honor any do not resuscitate order your travel with us indicates your informed consent to be treated. I doubt many people are aware of the practice, let alone what I can only call a weasel clause hidden in a typical 100-plus-page travel contract, absolving airlines of liability. However, the validity and enforceability of such clauses are ethically complex. They may be challenged based on a lack of transparency, patient autonomy, and a persons right to refuse even life-saving medical treatment, all established by federal and case law. The public is not on board with this policy. In a Flyer Talk article confirming the practice, What happens when someone dies on a flight many readers were outraged that airlines would ignore a valid DNR. A pilots perspective I interviewed a retired airline pilot about the issue. He confirmed that the captain and crew have ultimate authority and that CPR use is the protocol that overrides a DNR. However, he said if the persons medical POA or family had valid documentation, he would not intervene with CPR, claiming, for him, it was a moral issue rather than a legal one. Keeping someone alive against their will when they had the document to prove it was their wish not to be saved would be an onerous burden for him to bear, even if the law was on his side. Veteran honor flights I was in Washington, D.C., waiting to board a flight when an Honor Flight arrived. Everyone in the gate area cheered as a group of veterans was guided off the plane, anticipating their three-day D.C. adventure. Many of these veterans were over 90 years old, and some were on oxygen, most in wheelchairs. I learned that one vet was in hospice, and this trip was his final wish. Given the airlines policy, I asked Honor Flight Network if a veterans DNR would be honored. Staff answered yes or no, depending on each hub and state laws. HFNs 128 hubs in 46 states handle the DNR paperwork. Another program, the HFN Lone Eagle TLC flights (Their Last Chance), is for veterans with a verified terminal illness and prognosis of less than 12 months to live. Will their DNR be honored in flight? There is no definitive answer. CPR performed on someone frail or in poor health can cause severe medical trauma, including broken bones, damage to internal organs, or brain damage from lack of oxygen. CPR often does not work despite the best efforts, so why subject a veteran who has chosen DNR to the pain of CPR? While state-issued DNRs, or POLSTs, can help communicate the patients wishes on an aircraft, crew members are not legally mandated to follow these orders across state lines. The need for reform Medical first responders also have concerns about a lack of regulations for in-flight medical emergencies. The current system is a patchwork of policies, processes, and regulations highlighted by the global airline industrys disarray, lack of universality, and limited standardization in managing in-flight emergencies. There is an identified need for universal cross-border regulations and an awareness of legal and ethical boundaries for medical responders on board commercial international aircraft. Moral dilemmas of nurses during in-flight medical emergencies (Journal of Emergency Nursing, 2021) Keys to having your DNR honored in flight Keep your properly documented and valid DNR or POLST readily accessible, especially if you have a condition that might result in cardiac arrest. Travel companions should know and advocate for the patients treatment preferences to first responders. If the crew wants to intercede with CPR, appeal to the captain, hoping he is ethical and understands patient rights. Conclusion ADVERTISEMENT Airlines have the power to change the protocol and honor verified DNRs. They can create guidance favoring the person with the DNR rather than automatically overriding their wishes. Agencies, like HFN, the Emergency Nursing Association, and others, can pressure airlines to adhere to patients rights. As with health care facilities and doctors, it will take time and may take a law or someone (or many someones) to sue, win, and set a legal precedent to change this misguided policy. Althea Halchuck is a patient advocate. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) The National Park Service said the Washington Monument will remain closed through at least Tuesday due to the hot weather. The news did not prevent large crowds from gathering along the National Mall. I think its beautiful, Robert Spears said as he was visiting from New Jersey. Cooling centers open across DC, Maryland, Virginia amid high temperatures Thats not just his description of the sites he and his family visited. It also applies to the weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its sunny, blue skies, puffy white clouds. Crowds arent really bad at all, Spears said. So theres plenty of space for us to enjoy the sights. Valerio Ostuni has a different view as he and his group from Italy cooled off while on their first visit to the District. You go drink a lot of water, you can you can do it, Ostuni said. Unfortunately, people could not find relief in the fountain at the World War II Memorial. It had been turned off due to maintenance. Virginia Task Force 1 returns home after victim recovery efforts in Texas flood zone That forced people to stay cool in other ways, including fanning themselves and using umbrellas. Ostuni said its worth it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hunger for being here, the excitement, and makes you overcome every obstacle, Ostuni said. Hell need more of that advice on Tuesday, as the District braces for another day of brutally hot weather. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. When it comes to meteor showers, the Perseids pop. It's not just about the quantity of meteors (as many as 100 per hour) and their showy quality (fireballs!) but also their superb timing. The annual shower hits its peak on warm, laid-back August nights as the Earth crosses paths with the dust cloud left by comet Swift-Tuttle on its every-133-years swing past our planet. Watching the shower can be an awesome experience as meteors streak past in the summertime heavens, leaving light and color in their wake. John Denver, 27 and on a camping trip amid the Colorado pines, was so moved after seeing the Perseids rain fire in the sky that he wrote "Rocky Mountain High." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That said, this year there's a caveat. The meteor shower is set to peak the night of Aug. 11 and 12, according to Ed Krupp, director of L.A.'s Griffith Observatory. NASA says the best viewing time is in the predawn hours. But the moon will get in the way. "The waning gibbous moon will severely compromise this shower at the time of maximum activity," notes the American Meteor Society. The moon will be about 92% full and in the sky much of the time as the shower hits its peak, Krupp said. "Fainter meteors will be lost in the moon's glow," he told The Times. "At its best, the Perseid shower delivers between 50 to 100 meteors per hour, but this year far fewer will be seen." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stargazers can cross their fingers for more fireballs, a phenomenon that the Perseid shower is known for, according to NASA. "Fireballs are larger explosions of light and color that can persist longer than an average meteor streak," NASA says. "This is due to the fact that fireballs originate from larger particles of cometary material." Krupp advises that those who are "committed to the Perseids" despite the diminished chances of visibility this year "should go somewhere far from any urban center and away from the scattered glare of artificial lighting." Experts advise booking campsites in Joshua Tree, the Mojave Desert and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. There are multiple other good spots. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once there, aim for an expansive view because, although the Perseids seem to radiate from the northern constellation Perseus, they can appear anywhere, Bill Cooke, a NASA meteor scientist, told The Times in 2024. "So get on a cot or on a sleeping bag," he said, "and lie flat on your back and look straight up. Good news for 2026: The forecast for the Perseid meteor shower is excellent. The moon will be dark, and as NPR reports, an unusually large number of meteors are expected to flash through the night sky. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Donald Trump's efforts to shift the nation's conversations away from files concerning the crimes of convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein don't seem to be working. Davidoff Studios Photography / Getty Images Instead, Trump's base has begun turning on him over his administration's flip-flopping about whether an Epstein "client list" does or does not exist... Related: This French Canadian Newspaper Cover About Trump Has Gone Super Viral For Obvious Reasons And they're burning their hats to be heard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twitter: @krassenstein Amid the backlash, Trump used this time to bolster the unsupported claims of National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard, who says she has evidence of an Obama Administration Conspiracy to Subvert Trumps 2016 Victory and Presidency. (The Obama administration has denied this, and former CIA director John Brennan told NBC News, There is no factual basis for the allegations that Tulsi Gabbard is making.") Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images But, of course, that didn't stop Trump from sharing a fake, AI-generated video of Obama being arrested on his Truth Social account. Truth Social: Donald Trump / truthsocial.com Related: AOC Just Tweeted What So Many Are Thinking After Trump's Sudden 180 On The Epstein Files Well, when asked about the chaos during his appearance on The Breakfast Club, former secretary of transportation Pete Buttigieg called Trump's actions exactly as he saw them. "So, Trump says, 'We're going to release the files, we're going to release the files, we're going to release the files.' And then he says, 'We're not going to release the files,'" Buttigieg told hosts. The Breakfast Club / youtube.com Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: "You Have No Principles Or Backbone": 22 Tweets Calling Out The Dystopia That Is American Politics This Week "And people are mad, including MAGA, saying, 'Wait a minute, you said you were going to release this information and you're not.'" The Breakfast Club / youtube.com "And what does he do?" Buttigieg posed. "He's like, 'Uh, we're going to arrest Obama.'" The Breakfast Club / youtube.com As hosts laugh, Buttigieg concludes, "That has nothing to do with anything," before adding a term for Trump's behavior anytime he's cornered, "It's the distraction machine." The Breakfast Club / youtube.com Related: 14 MAGA Voters Are Finally Realizing What They Voted For, And The Stories Are Shocking Viewers appear to resonate with the interview as a whole, which you can watch in full here. The Breakfast Club / youtube.com Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What are your thoughts on his take? Let us know in the comments. Also in In the News: "This Is So Weird": People Cannot Believe What This MAGA Influencer Said To A Young Girl Asking About Her Future Also in In the News: "Wake Up America": 28 Of The Very, Very Best Political Tweets Of The Week Also in In the News: "You Have The Nerve To Call Yourself Christian": The Internet Is Finding It Hard To Sympathize With This Trump Supporter Who Is Suddenly Worried About Access To Healthcare Now That She Might Lose Hers Read it on BuzzFeed.com Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said that the way the Trump administration and his allies have handled convicted sex abuser Jeffrey Epsteins case reveals a larger problem of public trust in the government. Buttigieg slammed House Speaker Mike Johnsons (R-La.) early shutdown of the U.S. House of Representatives in an interview with NPRs Morning Edition host Steve Inskeep that aired Monday. Republicans would rather close that half of the Congress than allow the Epstein files to come out or somehow impede President Trumps decision to block those files, he said. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says the Trump administrations handling of convicted sex abuser Jeffrey Epsteins case reveals a bigger issue of trust in the government Getty Images Johnson sent lawmakers home early last week, telling reporters his party is done being lectured on transparency, after Democrats pushed to force votes on releasing files in Epsteins case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Buttigieg told NPR that Johnsons decision reveals that there is obviously, something very sensitive for President Trump in Epsteins case. But also, I think it speaks more broadly to this pattern of events where the president has said he would do something when it suited him to say he would do it. And then when its his interest to do the reverse, hell do that, Buttigieg said. President Donald Trump and his administration have been embroiled in scandal in recent weeks over their failure to release Epsteins files, despite previously saying they would. Amid the controversy, news outlets have resurfaced old photos and videos that appear to show a close friendship between Trump and Epstein. The Wall Street Journal fueled more speculation about a cover-up after reporting that Attorney General Pam Bondi informed the president in May that his name is in Epsteins case files. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An attorney for Ghislaine Maxwell, a convicted sex trafficker and close Epstein associate, appealed to Trump to overturn her conviction connected to Epsteins case just days after Maxwell met with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. The president has not ruled out pardoning Maxwell, telling reporters that he is allowed to do it. The presidents own MAGA fan base has begun turning on him over the scandal, prompting Trump to lash out against his supporters on Truth Social. Buttigieg argued that even though Epsteins case has sparked more interest from conservatives, the fallout shows a deeper breakdown in societal trust across the board. You shouldnt have to be a Republican or a Democrat to care about making sure theres transparency on something as horrific as the abuses that happened, Buttigieg said, and to want to understand why an administration that promised to shed light on this decided not to. Related... When Joel Noped interned at a local pharmacy during high school, it prompted him to pursue a path in health care. Noped moved from New Jersey to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he later graduated from the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy in 1999. Noped helped open Southern Pharmacy Services in Kernersville in 2008 as its pharmacy manager. Although Noped has taken enterprise-level roles over the past decade, he said that he is looking forward to coming back to Kernersville to serve as the president of the business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive felt connected to this location from the very beginning. Many of the staff here today were people I hired during those early days, or had worked with in previous roles, so theres a strong sense of continuity and pride. Im excited to be back at the Kernersville pharmacy, rolling up my sleeves and supporting the team. Noped said. Noped got his start at a long-term-care pharmacy when someone told him about an opening at different pharmacy. After graduating pharmacy school, I started in retail pharmacy and stayed there for a couple of years. One of my wifes co-workers mentioned that her husband worked as a pharmacist at a local long term care pharmacy that was looking for help. The timing was right, and I have found it to be a really good fit, Noped said. Noped said long-term-care pharmacies are pharmacies that work directly with long-term-care facilities and their residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For instance, we serve large continuing-care retirement communities with hundreds of residents that may include skilled nursing, assisted living, memory care, and independent living all on one campus, as well as smaller group homes housing just one or two adults with developmental or behavioral challenges, and everything in between, Noped said. Noped said long-term-care pharmacies focus on providing specialized care by working in tandem with the staff and medical professionals of the facilities they serve. We collaborate directly with community staff and doctors to customize medication plans for each resident. We have visibility into all of the medications a resident is taking which allows our consultant pharmacists to make sure medication combinations are safe and that only necessary medications are taken. This helps us act as a safety net and ultimately reduces medication errors, improves health outcomes, and lowers overall healthcare costs, Noped said. Noped said being on a pharmacy team means more than just providing medication, its also providing support for their residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We bring clinical expertise, compassion, and a commitment to safety and continuity of care. This has a direct impact on improving residents overall health and quality of life. Theres a well-known saying that goes, A community is judged by how it treats its most vulnerable, including its seniors. By ensuring the health and dignity of these individuals, we believe we are helping to create a stronger, more inclusive region where everyone feels valued, Noped said. Noped said the ability to serve some of the most vulnerable members of the community is the greatest challenge and opportunity that comes with the job. These are individuals who rely on us for support, and we have an obligation to work through whatever challenges arise, so we can deliver the best care possible. At the end of the day, thats what matters most, and its what drives everything we do, Noped said. SANDUSKY, Ohio (WJW) Guests at Cedar Point didnt need to visit the water park to get seriously wet after strong storms caused some flooding at the Roller Coaster Capital of the World on Monday. In a photo shared with FOX 8 News, guests are seen standing in the flooded parking lot outside the amusement park around 7 p.m. Courtesy of Lauren LaPinta Crazy storm rolled in REAL quick at Cedar Point and now kids are paddle boarding in the PARKING LOT, Lauren LaPinta wrote on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thousands without power in Northeast Ohio as storms roll throughv She said the storm hit around 4:30 p.m. I walked down the boardwalk to get a video of lightning in the distance and within 60 seconds, it started pouring to where I couldnt see anything and tree limbs started flying off trees, LaPinta said. FOX 8 reached out to Cedar Point officials for a statement regarding the flooding. There were a few areas of the peninsula with higher levels of water due to the rain, but they tend to recede shortly after storms, a spokesperson said. 1 lane open after flooding shuts down I-90 West near Lakewood Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A flash flood warning was issued for several western counties on Monday evening, including in Erie County, according to the National Weather Service. Flooding concerns are ongoing across Northeast Ohio, including in Lakewood where Interstate 90 was shut down for hours as a vehicle was submerged in floodwater. Keep up with the latest weather conditions right here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. After Bangkok rejected what it called the "baseless accusation" it had used chemical weapons over Cambodia during the Southeast Asian neighbours' bloodiest military clashes in decades, a months-old photo resurfaced in posts falsely claiming it showed the Thai air force using a "poisonous smoke weapon". The photo was originally published by the Reuters news agency in a report about firefighting efforts during the Los Angeles wildfires in January 2025. "Thailand has used poisonous smoke weapon against Cambodia," reads the Khmer-language caption of a Facebook image shared on the verified page of Cambodian Secretary of State Vengsrun Kuoch on July 28, 2025. The image, which was shared more than 6,300 times, shows what appears to be pink smoke being dropped from an aircraft over a hilly area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Thai flag is superimposed over the image with text reading, "Thai troops use poison gas to kill Cambodian civilians". Screenshot of the false Facebook post captured on July 29, 2025, with a red X added by AFP The same image was also shared thousands of times across social media before Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an unconditional ceasefire to end their bloodiest military clashes in more than a decade (archived link). The fighting, over a smattering of ancient temples in disputed zones along their 800-kilometre (500-mile) border, has killed at least 42 people and displaced more than 300,000. Prior to the peace talks, Cambodia's defence ministry accused the Thai air force of deploying "poison gas" during the fighting -- an accusation Thailand's foreign affairs ministry rejected as "baseless" (archived here and here). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The image circulating online does not show a Thai air force jet using a chemical weapon. A reverse image search on Google led to the same photo published on January 11 in a report by the Reuters news agency about efforts to put out the Palisades fire, the largest conflagration during the Los Angeles wildfires (archived link). The fires around the United States' second-largest city burned for three weeks, killing at least 30 people and forcing thousands of residents to evacuate their homes (archived link). The photo is captioned: "An air tanker drops fire retardant at the Palisades Fire, as seen from Woodland Hills, January 11. REUTERS/Ringo Chiu." Screenshot comparison of the falsely shared image (left) and the Reuters photo (right) According to a report by Canadian broadcaster CBC, the fire retardant -- a pink powder -- is dropped by planes ahead of the fire's path to slow the flames and allow time to build fire lines (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Further keyword searches based on the plane's livery seen in the Reuters photo found the aircraft belongs to 10 Tanker, a company that specialises in dropping fire retardant (archived link). AFP has also debunked other misinformation about the Thailand-Cambodia conflict. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) The Oklahoma City Fire Department recently shared adorable photos of firefighters saving ducklings from a storm drain. Officials say firefighters found and rescued six ducklings and quickly reunited them with their mom. GOOD NEWS!: Pioneer Library Systems Touch A Truck celebrates 20 years Ducklings saved from storm drain. Image courtesy OKCFD. Ducklings saved from storm drain. Image courtesy OKCFD. Ducklings saved from storm drain. Image courtesy OKCFD. Ducklings saved from storm drain. Image courtesy OKCFD. Ducklings saved from storm drain. Image courtesy OKCFD. Ducklings saved from storm drain. Image courtesy OKCFD. Just another quack-tastic save from your local firefighters. OKCFD said on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. CLEVELAND (WJW) Cleveland Police released pictures Tuesday of a suspect wanted in connection to a weekend shooting that happened during an attempted robbery at a grocery store. (Photo Credit: Cleveland Division of Police) According to police, a 39-year-old woman was shot at the Save A Lot located in the 11900 block of Superior Ave. just after 8 Sunday morning. She was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment and remains in critical condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gunman who killed 4 at Manhattan office building was targeting NFL headquarters, mayor says Police said the suspect is a black man who was wearing a gray hoodie, jeans, light-colored shoes and a black mask. He was carrying a light-colored bookbag and a handgun, police said. (Photo Credit: Cleveland Division of Police) Anyone with information is asked to contact the Fifth District Detective Bureau at 216-623-2599, Detective Howard #2205. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. YOKOSUKA, Japan (AP) Hundreds of residents gathered at Kurihama beach outside Tokyo over the weekend to pray for marine safety in a summer festival that fuses sacred ritual and seaside spectacle. As a portable shrine called mikoshi, decorated with Shinto ornaments, was lifted onto bearers' shoulders, the audience cheered. The mikoshi had started from Sumiyoshi Shrine and was paraded through neighborhood alleyways. Shrine priests paused to bless offerings and pray for good fortune for people gathered outside their homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the procession reached the beach, the priests danced and chanted. The festival reached its climax when the bearers entered the water up to their neck, their sweaty faces splashed with seawater. The procession made a final stop at the nearby ferry terminal, where the mikoshi was carried onto a vessel for prayers for its safe travels. Everyone has been looking forward to this day all year, said Shuji Shimizu, head of the Kurihama Neighborhood Association. Its a celebration of our own strength and unity. Please stay safe out there ... and enjoy every moment. As evening fell, the mikoshi was carried back to storage at the shrine, until next summer. ___ This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. ___ This story corrects dateline to YOKOSUKA, Japan, not TOKYO. In recent years, kratom, a botanical herb indigenous to Southeast Asia, has surged in popularity across the United States. Marketed aggressively online and sold openly in vape shops, convenience stores, and specialty herbal outlets, kratom is often portrayed as a natural remedy, an herbal escape from chronic pain, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal. But beneath the alluring veneer of wellness and relief lies a dangerous, largely unregulated substance capable of causing severe addiction, psychosis, and even death. Derived from the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, a tropical evergreen tree native to countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Myanmar, kratom has traditionally been used by manual laborers to combat fatigue and manage pain. It was introduced to Western markets as a benign and herbal alternative to prescription opioids, quickly garnering interest among vulnerable populations struggling with chronic pain or opioid dependence. Today, the rise in kratom use has reached alarming proportions, with an estimated 3 to 5 million American adults consuming it regularly, representing approximately 0.9 to 1.5 percent of the U.S. population. Monthly imports to the United States are around 2,000 metric tons, highlighting its rapid growth in popularity and consumption. At the heart of kratoms pharmacological allure are two powerful alkaloids: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These substances bind directly to the opioid receptors in the brain, producing stimulant-like effects at low doses and sedative, analgesic effects at higher amounts. Mitragynine alone possesses approximately 13 times more potency than morphine, while 7-hydroxymitragynine is up to 46 times more potent than mitragynine itself, magnifying its risks exponentially. This opioid-like potency translates directly into dependence, tolerance, and debilitating withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, tremors, severe pain, insomnia, and intense cravings that mirror traditional opioid addiction. The growing acceptance and availability of kratom have masked its serious side effects and addiction potential. Surveys indicate that kratom consumption exploded during the COVID-19 pandemic, as millions grappled with isolation, economic stress, and disrupted access to traditional health care. People turned to kratom seeking relief from stress, boredom, and pain, often underestimating its risks due to its natural label. Tragically, many individuals have discovered only too late the severe consequences of kratom dependency, experiencing withdrawal symptoms comparable in intensity to opioids. Despite its dangers, some research points to potential beneficial effects of kratom, particularly its analgesic properties and ability to mitigate symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Traditional use in Southeast Asia has shown kratoms effectiveness in alleviating chronic pain and mood disorders, offering relief where conventional medical interventions have failed. Some preliminary animal studies even suggest it could have antidepressant and antipsychotic properties, though these findings remain to be validated in rigorous clinical trials. Kratoms detrimental effects are not confined merely to dependency. Medical research and clinical case studies have documented alarming psychiatric consequences of prolonged kratom use. Psychosis, mania, paranoia, and severe mood disturbances have been observed, especially in users predisposed to mental health disorders. Youth, in particular, are at significant risk due to kratoms easy accessibility, online availability, and perceived safety. Young adults and adolescents may be especially vulnerable to developing dependence and experiencing severe psychiatric and neurological symptoms. Different kratom formulations present varied strengths and effects, complicating both usage and regulation. Kratom is available in numerous forms, including capsules, powders, extracts, teas, and resins, each varying significantly in potency and pharmacological impact. Extracts and concentrated formulations contain higher levels of alkaloids, increasing the risk of toxicity, dependence, and overdose. This variability not only amplifies the risks associated with kratom but also creates challenges in clinical management and treatment. Additionally, the lack of regulatory oversight in kratom production poses a profound public health risk. Unchecked manufacturing and distribution practices have led to contamination and adulteration with toxic substances, including dangerous synthetic opioids and psychoactive chemicals, further increasing the threat of severe health crises and fatalities. Reports have documented organ damage, seizures, coma, and even death associated with contaminated kratom products. Despite these dangers, treatment options specifically tailored for kratom use disorder remain underdeveloped. Physicians often rely on established opioid dependence treatments, such as buprenorphine-naloxone, to manage withdrawal and reduce cravings. Antidepressants, anxiolytics, and supportive psychological interventions have also shown promise. Yet, without rigorous clinical guidelines and specialized treatments, individuals struggling with kratom dependence frequently fall through the cracks of our health care system. Public health authorities, clinicians, and lawmakers must urgently confront the unchecked proliferation of kratom. Education campaigns must replace deceptive marketing with transparent, science-based information about kratoms true nature and risks. Regulatory agencies must implement stringent oversight to curb adulteration and contamination, ensuring consumer safety. And health care providers must receive specialized training to recognize, diagnose, and treat kratom-related disorders effectively. Kratoms future hinges upon informed policy decisions, proactive regulation, and robust clinical research. Without action, kratom use and dependency will continue to rise, leaving countless lives irreparably harmed. We must collectively lift the veil from kratoms seemingly benign image, confronting the harsh realities of its dangers head-on, and protecting vulnerable populations from falling victim to yet another devastating epidemic hidden in plain sight. Muhamad Aly Rifai is a nationally recognized psychiatrist, internist, and addiction medicine specialist based in the Greater Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. He is the founder, CEO, and chief medical officer of Blue Mountain Psychiatry, a leading multidisciplinary practice known for innovative approaches to mental health, addiction treatment, and integrated care. Dr. Rifai currently holds the prestigious Lehigh Valley Endowed Chair of Addiction Medicine, reflecting his leadership in advancing evidence-based treatments for substance use disorders. ADVERTISEMENT Board-certified in psychiatry, internal medicine, addiction medicine, and consultation-liaison (psychosomatic) psychiatry, Dr. Rifai is a fellow of the American College of Physicians (FACP), the American Psychiatric Association (FAPA), and the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (FACLP). He is also a former president of the Lehigh Valley Psychiatric Society, where he championed access to community-based psychiatric care and physician advocacy. A thought leader in telepsychiatry, ketamine treatment, and the intersection of medicine and mental health, Dr. Rifai frequently writes and speaks on physician justice, federal health care policy, and the ethical use of digital psychiatry. You can learn more about Dr. Rifai through his Wikipedia page, connect with him on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, or subscribe to his YouTube channel. His podcast, The Virtual Psychiatrist, offers deeper insights into topics at the intersection of mental health and medicine. Explore all of Dr. Rifais platforms and resources via his Linktree. Welcome to The Dirt! Im real estate, weather and critter reporter Kimberly Miller with the latest developments in the sizzling market. Ho-hum, it's the dog days of summer in South Florida and if you're not endlessly circling the parking lot looking for shade or dodging Coldplay's kiss cam, you may find yourself embroiled in a pickleball civil war in one of Palm Beach County's many gated communities. RiverWalk of the Palm Beaches is toying with the idea of building six new pickleball courts in an area of greenspace that some community members really like. But RiverWalk's pickleball committee (yes, there's a pickleball committee and it's something we should all aspire to in retirement) says that two Realtors told it that new pickleball courts will increase home values. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are already pickleball courts at RiverWalk, but they're clay. Quelle horreur! Now the anti-picklers have formed a limited liability company to fight the pro-picklers because this is South Florida and we love us some LLCs. So pick a side, make your bets and stay tuned. Stay up to date on South Florida's sizzling real estate market and sign up for The Dirt weekly newsletter, delivered every Tuesday! Exclusively for Palm Beach Post subscribers. In other real estate-related news, two Reality TV stars are teaming up to hawk homes in Palm Beach County, there's an old cabin in Northwood Shores that may or may not date back to 1893, there's a plan for rooftop dining at the Offices At The Press, and take a tour of some of the reject homes in Palm Beach that ARCOM put the kibosh on. Former 'Bachelorette' star joins Ryan Serhant's real estate team in Jupiter Tyler Cameron hosts monthly shindigs at Topside of the Beacon. Jupiter native and veteran of the reality television scene Tyler Cameron is now selling real estate with "Owning Manhattan" star Ryan Serhant, and it's like "The Bachelorette" and "Million Dollar Listing New York" had a really handsome baby who wants to sell you a house. Because I live my life vicariously through the crewmembers on Bravo's "Below Deck" (espresso martini anyone?), I wasn't as familiar with Cameron, who is already a real estate pro with his Emmy-nominated home remodeling show "Going Home with Tyler Cameron." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besides the intrigue of two reality stars joining forces, it was also another sign of Serhant's longterm business plan in Palm Beach County which is to crush his enemies, see them driven before him and hear the lamentations of their women because that's what's best in life. But no, really, Serhant has opened three offices in Palm Beach County since 2023 and recruited powerhouses such as Palm Beach-based agent Gary Pohrer. Is there a franchise of the "Million Dollar Listing" juggernaut headed to South Florida? It's already been attempted once, so we'll see. Rooftop dining at the Offices At The Press Rendering of proposed rooftop restaurant and bar at the Offices Of The Post, an office building in West Palm Beach. The landmark Palm Beach Post building at Belvedere Road and South Dixie Highway, which is still host to the award-winning 109-year-old newspaper but also a slew of other companies, could be getting a rooftop bar and restaurant under a plan pitched by its owner Boca Raton-based Pebb Capital. The four-story building has views of the Intracoastal Waterway and downtown West Palm Beach, and is part of the burgeoning South Dixie Corridor of design shops, restaurants and boutiques. In the same plaza is Joseph's Classic Market, Pink Steak steakhouse, Amped Fitness and a standalone Starbucks. The employment opportunities are appreciated as artificial intelligence takes all the desk jobs and we descend into a dystopian hellscape a la "The Purge." My money's on the Gen Xers because their survival skills were honed from years of climbing out bedroom windows with smuggled Boone's Farm and Bartles & Jaymes. Thank you for your support. Old home in West Palm Beach needs a new home It is believed by some people in West Palm Beach's Northwood Shores community, historically called Mangonia, that this cabin was built in 1893 by pioneers Lucretia and Henry Hannong. A cabin hidden for years on a property in West Palm Beach's Northwood Shores community may be that of early pioneers to the area Lucretia and Henry Hannong. If so, that means it dates to 1893. While additions and modifications have obscured much of its original construction, neighborhood historian Carl Flick has gathered enough evidence to make a convincing argument that it is the Hannong's cabin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The death of the previous owner, who had built a 12-foot security fence around the property, and two subsequent sales left the cabin open for inspection by Flick, city officials and descendants of Lucretia and Henry. The race is on to move the structure and set it up as a museum to the area and the pioneers who persevered without air conditioning, bug repellent or White Claw hard seltzer. It was a tough life. Live lightly. Kimberly Miller is a journalist for The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA Today Network of Florida. She covers real estate, weather, and the environment. Subscribe to The Dirt for a weekly real estate roundup. If you have news tips, please send them to kmiller@pbpost.com. Help support our local journalism, subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Rooftop bar and restaurant pitched for Palm Beach Post building in West Palm Piedmont Park stabbing case marked by lack of progress A gruesome homicide case in Atlanta remains unsolved, with the victim having been stabbed 50 times, letters carved into their body, and an animal harmed. The case, which has drawn significant attention, has seen little progress, though there has been increased security measures in the area. Crime scene investigator Sheryl McCollum, although not directly involved, has been following the developments closely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So Bodie had to be the first victim. Whatever that first interchange was, that killer grabbed that dog and killed him, McCollum told Channel 2s Karyn Greer. PREVIOUS STORY: Joe Clark, whose daughter Emma was the partner of the victim, expressed frustration with the lack of communication from Atlanta police, noting it has been 18 months since he last heard from them. We havent heard anything, well say. Been in touch with Mayor Dickens a few times, and he told me it was one of his things. Its something that he really wanted to get done. But I believe its been so long now, Clark said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joe Clark mentioned that while there have been improvements in security, such as more cameras and better lighting, the case remains cold. Matt Westmoreland, an Atlanta City Council member, highlighted the extensive surveillance now in place. As we stand here today, there are 41 cameras all around Piedmont Park that actually are providing over 160 streams of video footage that cover a number of different, almost every aspect of the park, he said. Despite enhanced security measures, the case remains unsolved, leaving the community and those connected to the victim seeking answers. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Just 10 minutes after a Delta plane landed at San Francisco International Airport, law enforcement and federal agents entered the cockpit and apprehended a pilot, authorities say. The arrest Saturday left passengers agape. The officers and agents "were pushing their way up through the aisle" and into the cockpit, where they cuffed the co-pilot before leading him away, one passenger told the San Francisco Chronicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rustom Bhagwagar, a 34-year-old Florida resident, was arrested on suspicion of sexual crimes against a minor. Contra Costa County sheriff's deputies and Department of Homeland Security agents apprehended Bhagwagar about 9:35 p.m. Saturday after the Delta Air Lines flight from Minneapolis landed at SFO, according to a sheriff's news release. Authorities said Bhagwagar was arrested and booked into the Martinez Detention Facility on five counts of oral copulation with a child under the age of 10. His bail was set at $5 million. The investigation into Bhagwagar began months ago after authorities received allegations that he had committed a sexual crime against a child, according to the release. Contra Costa deputies discovered that Bhagwagar was a pilot and with assistance from Homeland Security, which did not take part in the investigation apprehended him once the flight concluded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson from Delta Air Lines said in a statement to The Times that it would cooperate with authorities and has zero tolerance for the alleged unlawful conduct. Deputies said the investigation was continuing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the sheriffs Investigations Division at (925) 313-2600 or at (866) 846-3592 for anonymous tips. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The name Joseph Emerson might not mean much on this side of the Atlantic. But over the past year, the California-based pilot has become somewhat of a controversial media personality in his native US, giving various television interviews about the most consequential three seconds of his life. In this instance, most consequential might be an understatement. In October 2023, Emerson was travelling on an Alaska Airlines flight to San Francisco. As a licensed pilot travelling off-duty, he was given a spare seat in the cockpit, in order to make room for more paying passengers. At some point during the flight, Emerson suffered what he says was a dissociative episode, which led him to attempt to cut off the planes engines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Involuntary or not, Emersons sabotage was unsuccessful, with the working pilots able to resume control and make an unscheduled landing. Almost two years on, Emerson is awaiting trial on a slew of federal and state charges (including 83 counts of attempted murder one for every person on board), which could see him serving 20 years in prison. Free to speak about his case in the media, Emerson and his wife have founded their own campaign group, Clear Skies Ahead, which addresses what they say is a tendency of pilots to downplay any mental health issues in order to keep flying. Joseph Emerson suffered what he says was a dissociative episode in the cockpit - Dave Killen In interviews, Emerson has said he was acting in a dream-like state, having taken magic mushrooms days earlier after a severe bout of depression brought on by the death of his friend. The case has been back in the spotlight, following the news that investigators are pursuing the possibility that the tragic Air India crash in which 260 people lost their lives on a flight from Ahmedabad to London could have been a case of pilot murder-suicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If true, it could be the third or fourth such case in just over ten years. (The 2015 Germanwings tragedy is confirmed as being caused deliberately; pilot murder-suicide is a leading theory in the disappearance of 2014 Malaysia Airlines Flight 370; the crash of China Eastern Airlines Flight 5735 in 2022 may have also been deliberate.) For all the media attention on his case, Emerson gets short shrift from some aviation professionals. To be honest, I think that intentionally crashing a plane with hundreds of passengers on board has less to do with mental health and more to do with a psychopathic mind, says one industry insider. At the same time, there is a growing consensus that mental health has become a critical issue for aviation safety even if the kind of disasters seen in previous cases (such as the infamous Germanwings tragedy, in which 150 passengers died when a suicidal pilot crashed his plane into the French Alps) represent the most extreme end of the wedge. Pilots face a perfect storm of psychological risk factors According to a paper published last year by the Royal Aeronautical Society, there are high levels of self-reported mental health issues across the civil aviation sector. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The paper cites an ongoing wellbeing survey from Trinity College Dublin, which has found that around 10 per cent of pilots report having poor mental health, with a third of that group (so 3 per cent total) describing their mental health as very bad. Pilots face what I often call a perfect storm of psychological risk factors, says Dr Kultar Singh Garcha, an NHS GP and the medical director for mental health app Flow Neuroscience. Youve got long hours, disrupted sleep cycles from constant time-zone shifts, chronic fatigue, and often a strange kind of emotional isolation even though theyre surrounded by people all day. It is also true that theres an incredible sense of responsibility. Most people dont go to work knowing that hundreds of lives literally depend on their performance. That level of pressure isnt inherently bad some pilots thrive on it but over time, it can wear down your nervous system. Especially if youre not sleeping well, or if there are things going on at home that you feel cut off from. Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, who was at the helm of Air India flight 171, had 8,200 hours of flying experience Its true that those factors might not be unique to pilots. But one factor that has become particularly pertinent in discussions around mental health and aviation is the increased reluctance of pilots to come forward about their issues, particularly given the risk (perceived or otherwise) that they could lose their licence or be suspended from duty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine suggested that 56 per cent of pilots avoided seeking medical help in case it resulted in them being removed from duty. That raises the risk that manageable mental health problems will worsen over time, or that pilots will turn to riskier strategies to self-medicate and keep working. The issue was brought into sharp focus following the Germanwings crash, when it was revealed that the pilot in question, Andreas Lubitz, had previously sought treatment for suicidal tendencies, but had hidden this from his employer for fear of losing his job. Searching for solutions Following the tragedy, various regulatory changes were made, including stricter rules around having two pilots in the cockpit at all times. But while having an additional pair of eyes may prevent these specific cases, the more significant change say pilots has been the push to make it easier for pilots to come forward with any potential mental health issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The biggest change has been the peer support programmes that you now see across all of the major airlines, says a member of the British Airline Pilots Association (BALPA), speaking on condition of anonymity. In the past few years, youve had hundreds of pilots contacting these programmes who would have otherwise been suffering in silence. I know that BA has a confidential helpline manned by other staffers sort of like an internal Samaritans, says one industry insider. They are well aware that the stresses of the job can lead to personal crises and not just for pilots. They point to a case earlier this year when a crew member reportedly danced naked through the business-class cabin, following a suspected mental health episode. At the same time, though, the impetus still remains on pilots to come forward in the first place. We can see from recent studies in America that the same issues of fear of losing your licence are still very prevalent, says Marc Atherton, an aviation psychologist and chair of the Royal Aeronautical Societys mental health specialist group. That tells me we still have a long way to go. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Solving that particular conundrum remains the trickiest question. In the immediate wake of the Germanwings tragedy, the airlines parent group, Lufthansa Group, suggested random psychological testing of pilots though that suggestion was quickly dismissed as less than helpful. I think it was a case of the industry wanting to be seen to be doing something, says the (anonymous) BALPA member and current pilot. Pilots who want to seek treatment shouldnt be so worried, they suggest, given that the number of cases in which licences are suspended for mental health reasons are vanishingly small. What they might have to contemplate, though, is the possibility of taking time away from work which can bring complications in its own right. Sick leave policies will differ across airlines, but we have seen examples of airlines being very forward-thinking in terms of giving pilots a chance to still be involved with the company during that time while theyre not flying, they say. If someone is taking time away from flying for addiction issues, for example, having some positive experience of work during that time will be very helpful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over in the States, Clear Skies Ahead insists there are no easy answers and that every pilot should get the care they need, because they are worth it and will be better for it. With more than 300,000 airline pilots currently working across the world, the real changes will happen behind the scenes rather than those horrific cases that make the headlines. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. WINSTED, Conn. (WTNH) Sarah Smolak of Winsted failed to return a 3-year-old pit bull on Monday who allegedly went missing under her care in February. Smolak was ordered by a judge to bring the missing pit bull named Marshmallow to the Winchester Police Department within 10 days. Winsted woman now facing nearly 40 animal cruelty charges In March, she was charged with more than 40 counts of animal cruelty for other dogs that were also in her possession. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Angels for Mistreated Animals (AMA) Animal Rescue staff, their attorney and police waited at the police department in hopes of bringing Marshmallow home safely. I am horribly disappointed, Jonathan Levitan, the attorney and animal advocate said. None of it makes sense to anybody so its depressing sad. Its sad that this is the level we have to go to. Michele Walsh with AMA Animal Rescue told News 8 that Smolak was fostering the white pitbull, Marshmallow, for a month. Thats when they said Smolak abruptly moved. Since they disappeared, we were contacting her trying to get updates on Marshmallow and it was one excuse after another and ultimately, she moved from her Norwalk residence to Winsted, Walsh said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was reported that more than 20 dogs were seized from her Winsted home during that time. Now, the search continues for Marshmallow, who has been missing since February. Winchester woman charged with animal cruelty We still ask for the dog back. We sued for breach of contract and another count or two I believe, Levitan said. So, we are going to press forward with that. We can still do depositions, interrogatory requests, questions directed where she has to swear to sign and send back. We may be able to file a contempt based on her lack of appearance today so theres a bunch of things on the table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smolaks lawyer James Saraceni said he plans to file a motion to reargue on the courts decision. If you have any information on Marshmallows whereabouts, you can reach out to AMA Animal Rescue or the Winchester Police Department. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. A project to build 36 new social rent homes on the site of a former care centre in Sheffield has been supported with a 4.1m grant from the government. Sheffield City Council has been awarded the money to develop Bolehill View, at the site of a former community care facility on Eastfield Road, off Northfield Road in Crookes. The scheme would see two blocks of one-bedroom flats built in an area of "high housing need," according to the council. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Douglas Johnson, chair of the council's housing committee, said: "Sheffield, like the rest of the country, faces huge challenges when it comes to housing." Johnson said that providing "ample good quality homes at affordable prices for those who need them," was a priority for the local authority. Sheffield City Council has launched a 10-year plan to improve and increase its housing supply. A spokesperson for the authority said demand for good quality, affordable homes in the city had "never been higher". The site of the development, off Northfield Road in Crookes, is currently unused [Sheffield city council] The authority is currently working towards formally accepting the conditions of the funding before work can begin at the site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grant is the third to be awarded to Sheffield City Council this year by Homes England, the government's housing and regeneration agency. Dilys Jones, assistant director of affordable housing growth at Homes England, said the agency was pleased to be working with the council, "to increase the delivery of much-needed affordable homes in the city". The average private rent cost in Sheffield rose to 877 in February 2025, up from 824 the year before. Listen to highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North More on this story Related internet links President Trump has been unable to avoid questions about Jeffrey Epstein, and podcaster Joe Rogan is calling out the White House for gaslighting its supporters on the issue. The New Republic's Michael Tomasky also writes about why the Trump WH could consider indicting former President Obama. CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) New details were released on Monday about the plans to replace all Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) highway service plazas. Ireland-based company Applegreen plans to spend $750 million to modernize and maintain the plazas, most of which are along the Mass. Pike. Construction is set to begin as early as 2026, with construction work set to support approximately 750 jobs. Starting next year, travelers can expect the eastbound Ludlow Service Plaza, located off the Massachusetts Turnpike, to get knocked down and rebuilt from scratch. The westbound side will be completely renovated, with the entire interior gutted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rockys Ace Hardware launches Fill the Bucket fundraiser for children in need Each rest stop will include increased parking spots and EV charging options, children and dog play areas, improved bathrooms, and new food and beverage brands. I think that would be great, said Brock Poulin of Maine. I mean, more options is always better. Thats what I think, especially for people driving along this long stretch of road. So its definitely good to have as many options as possible. We always want to go to a nice bathroom, get a nice beverage, have a good little pitstop, said Mel Darling of California. So its perfect, yes, helpful, makes the journey go a little more easily. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of a 35-year lease agreement, Applegreen will be responsible for renovating or rebuilding a total of 18 highway service plazas over the course of the next three years. What well make sure is that well try to avoid having two consecutive plazas under construction at the same time, so that the traveling public still has choices, said Applegreen Spokesperson Diana Pisciotta. Throughout the state, an estimated 1,500 new operational jobs are expected to be created through this realignment. All current service plaza employees will be offered employment with Applegreen. Provides a great diversity of job experiences, not just the day-in, day-out retail jobs, Pisciotta said. Important though those are, but in a broader, more regional capacity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Applegreen plans to announce its hiring process in the early fall. The company also announced that Chicopee-based Rachaels Food Corp will be the leading provider of sandwiches for Applegreens entire travel plaza business. Once this project is completed, Applegreen expects it will increase the number of travelers they see at their plazas. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. National Highways has confirmed it will spend 7.5m filling in Queensbury Tunnel in West Yorkshire, which would prevent it from being converted into the country's longest underground cycleway. The organisation said the work was necessary to "stabilise the tunnel safely and securely," adding that proposals to restore and reopen the route would cost 22m. Campaigners from Queensbury Tunnel Society have spent more than a decade developing plans for the 1.4-mile former railway tunnel to be reopened as a greenway that could link Bradford and Calderdale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the Department for Transport has supported plans to seal the 1870s structure and said restoration would be too expensive. National Highways took control of the England's disused former railway structures after the privatisation of British Rail. The organisation has already spent 7.2m between 2018 and 2021 to strengthen the tunnel to prevent parts of it collapsing. At the time, the body said the work was to "ensure that any future plans for the structure can be realised". The organisation has said it would be too expensive to restore the route, but a Queensbury Tunnel Society spokesperson said the 22m figure was excessively high because National Highways want to "gold-plate" the scheme. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The society argued that a study by engineering consultancy AECOM in 2018 found that the tunnel could be repaired for 6.9m. A heritage board at the site shows an artist's impression of the greenway [BBC] Society spokesperson Graeme Bickerdike said: "The 7.5m that is going to be spent on abandonment could be spent on repairs to make it greenway ready. "What we're proposing is a really ambitious active travel network, and nobody's under illusions about how dauting that is in terms of financing it. "But you break it down into manageable chunks and spend the money when it's available, rather than the tunnel being lost forever." National Highways said the tunnel would be stabilised by pumping material into ventilation shafts 400 ft above the structure but a spokesperson said "we will not be infilling or demolishing the tunnel". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked if the work would make the tunnel inaccessible and prevent it from being converted into a greenway, the spokesperson said: "Yes, that's an accurate summary." The government-owned company will now seek planning consent from Bradford Council to carry out the work. The Queensbury Tunnel Campaign has been exploring the possibility of a judicial review that would examine the lawfulness of the decision. Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North. More on this story Israel's Ambassador to the UAE, Yossi Shalev, will be recalled to Israel after the UAE refuses to let him continue serving as ambassador, N12 reported on Tuesday. The Prime Minister's Office stated that it is not planning on recalling Israel's Ambassador to the UAE, Yossi Shalev, to Israel in a statement on Tuesday evening. This comes in response to a report by N12, which claimed that Shalev will be recalled to Israel after the UAE refused to let him continue serving as ambassador. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's associates are looking for a new role for Shalev, who is close to Netanyahu after having previously served as director-general of the PMO, the report added. These events follow a previous N12 report that highlighted how Shalev was seen behaving "unusually, in a manner that does not align with the expected conduct for an ambassador," at an Emirati bar on a Friday evening. Sources familiar with the details told N12 that Shalev was at the bar with several Israelis, including women, and the issue related to "moral and personal values." Then-director-general of the Prime Minister's Office, Yossi Shelley. (credit: Via Maariv) Since the event occurred, the Emiratis have made it clear via unofficial channels that "Shalev's behavior was unacceptable and even harmed our dignity." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shelley previously served as Ambassador to Brazil from 2017 to 2021, as well as the director general of the Beersheba Municipality. Shelley replaced Amir Hayek, who served in the position when it was created on October 11, 2021. Ambassadors typically serve in their role for three to four years and entirely at the government's discretion, except for the Ambassador to the US, who is appointed by the PM directly. Shelley was facing scandals at PMO when he was appointed as ambassador The move comes amid a deepening crisis at the PMO as several employees and advisors were questioned over several different scandals emerging from the PMO in the past few weeks. Shelley has not been implicated in the scandals but served as director-general during the period in which these scandals occurred. The scandals range from leaking classified information to foreign newspapers to altering the times of calls received immediately after the start of October 7. Yuval Barnea contributed to this report. Like many of my fellow physicians, I suspect Im two things: a child of immigrants and a child of a physician. That combination gave me a unique window into two fundamental systems, health care and global economics, long before I studied either formally. I saw the sacrifices and hard choices required to navigate both, often simultaneously, with no geographic boundary ever limiting our responsibilities. Many vivid memories from childhood have stayed with me, but what stands out most is my mothers tireless dedication, not just to her patients, but to family. Her energy seemed boundless. She juggled lab and hospital duties, handled after-hours calls, and still managed the logistics of caring for family across continents. She would fly back to Calcutta, India, one of the worlds largest exporters of physicians, with suitcases stuffed with American goods requested by relatives: lipstick, Ritz crackers, and Keeblers Sandies, which my grandmother adored despite their dry, sawdust-like texture that I could never tolerate. These care packages werent trivial. They were part of a ritual, physical tokens of love and connection in a world where distance didnt dull duty. Every trip back felt like Christmas via Air India, and every gift was a reminder that we hadnt forgotten where we came from. But far more important than the snacks and souvenirs were the remittances, money sent home regularly to cover everything from living expenses to emergency medical procedures. I vividly remember a late-night call my father received from his brother, explaining that their sisters family in East Bengal, now Bangladesh, was in crisis. The house was falling apart. Health issues had gone untreated. A child needed surgery. Medications were unaffordable. The local hospitals required full cash payment up front, and there were no safety nets. These calls always ended the same way, with hushed debates over tea in the kitchen about who needed help most and how much could be sent. My parents would weigh medical urgency against financial feasibility, juggle the bills, and somehow find a way. I was a small, silent observer, but I understood early on that money and medicine were inseparable, and both were transnational in our household. The formal term for what my parents were doing is remittances, typically small cash flows from immigrants to their countries of origin. I didnt even know the word until much later, when I read Basic Economics by Stanford professor Thomas Sowell. He described remittances as a transfer of wealth, and I laughed out loud. Those modest wire transfers, sent regularly and often with quiet urgency, never felt like wealth. But in aggregate, they are. According to 2024 World Bank figures, India received over 129 billion dollars in remittances, followed by Mexico at 68.2 billion, China at 48 billion, and the Philippines at 40.2 billion. In countries like Tajikistan, Tonga, and Nicaragua, remittances make up more than a quarter of the entire GDP. Now, with a proposed 3.5 percent remittance tax on the table, the debate over what these transfers mean, for individuals, families, and nations, is more urgent than ever. From a medical economics standpoint, remittances function as a form of decentralized, informal insurance. In many low- and middle-income countries where public health infrastructure is fragmented, remittances cover what governments and weak health systems cannot. They fund everything from dialysis to diagnostic imaging, maternal care to surgery, even routine medication refills. In India, its not uncommon for hospitals to require full payment before providing treatment or even admitting a patient. My mother often sent money to cover just such expenses for relatives, with no co-pays, no preauthorization, just the hard reality: No cash, no care. In this way, remittances reduce strain on underfunded national health systems by serving as a parallel stream of health care financing. They prevent worse outcomes by funding early interventions, improve health literacy through access to private care, and sometimes even subsidize small, community-based clinics. From an economic perspective, this has a ripple effect, because healthier individuals are more economically productive and less reliant on their own governments for emergency services. Meanwhile, my fathers transfers often supported both medical and entrepreneurial needs, funding a cousins trekking company in Darjeeling, or investing in a local hostel. These werent just business ventures, they were long-term strategies to foster stability and resilience in environments where both jobs and health care were insecure. So when we talk about taxing remittances, were not discussing luxury expenditures. Were talking about taxing people for supporting their families, often in ways that directly reduce public health burdens in both the sending and receiving countries. These funds fill the gaps left by broken or underfunded systems. And yet, the average cost to send just 200 dollars remains stubbornly high, 6.4 percent globally, and even higher in parts of sub-Saharan Africa. South Asia has fared better, with an average of 5 percent, thanks to the rise of digital platforms. But now were proposing to tack on an additional 3.5 percent? For many senders, especially those who are underbanked or paid in cash, this becomes a regressive tax on the poor, many of whom are already paying into local, state, and federal tax systems. The issue isnt just economic, its practical and ethical. People wont stop sending money. Theyll simply resort to riskier, informal methods, handing off cash to couriers, mailing envelopes stuffed with bills, or trusting acquaintances to deliver money across oceans. These methods are unsafe and untraceable. History shows that when survival mechanisms are over-regulated, people adapt, often with dangerous consequences. Whats most troubling is the message this tax sends. This country was built on the idea that we attract and support the best talent from around the world. Immigrants already give so much. They are often underpaid, under-credentialed, and yet still support two households, one here, and one back home. If we now penalize that generosity, are we not undermining the very spirit of inclusion, opportunity, and innovation that defines the American ideal? In todays mobile, globalized world, where remote work, digital entrepreneurship, and dual citizenship are increasingly common, young professionals are already questioning whether the United States is the best place to build a life. Burdens like this remittance tax could accelerate a slow but steady reverse brain drain. And thats not a hypothetical concern, its a measurable shift already underway. Remittances are more than money. They are medical lifelines, emotional bridges, economic investments, and deeply symbolic acts of care. They are often used to buy someone more time, in a very literal sense. And they are a two-way street. We would be wise to keep that road open. ADVERTISEMENT Dalia Saha is a nocturnist. Poland has accused a Colombian national of carrying out arson attacks on construction warehouses in two Polish cities on behalf of Russian intelligence. Source: Jacek Dobrzynski, spokesperson for the Coordinator of Special Services, as reported by RMF24 and cited by European Pravda Details: Dobrzynski said that the 27-year-old Colombian, acting on behalf of Russian intelligence, was behind two arson attacks on the warehouses in Warsaw and Radom in 2024 - this was discovered by employees of the Internal Security Agency (ABW). The fire in Warsaw occurred on 23 May, and the one in Radom a week later, on 30 May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect reportedly received detailed instructions regarding the target and method of attack, including how to make a Molotov cocktail. He has been charged with terrorism and faces a life sentence. The Internal Security Agency said the suspect has partially admitted guilt and given a statement that is now being verified. "These actions were commissioned, coordinated and financed by an individual linked to Russian intelligence services. The suspect received detailed guidance on the target and how to carry out the attack including how to make a Molotov cocktail and what means of transport to use," Internal Security Agency officials stated. Internal Security Agency officers also found that Russian services have been systematically recruiting people of Latin American origin with military backgrounds via the Telegram messenger app to conduct reconnaissance, commit arson and document damage at designated locations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, it emerged that in June this year, another Colombian was sentenced to eight years in prison in Czechia for setting fire to a bus depot in Prague and attempting to set fire to a shopping centre. The man pleaded guilty. According to the Czech prime minister, Russian intelligence services were involved in the case. Background: Earlier this year, Polish prosecutors charged two Ukrainian nationals suspected of involvement in the 12 May 2024 arson attack on a shopping centre in Warsaw. In May, it became known that several individuals had been detained in Germany and Switzerland for supposedly planning to send parcel bombs on the orders of Russian intelligence. In July, Czech intelligence reported that Russia has been hiring migrants from outside the European Union to commit crimes, spread fear and undermine trust in European governments. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! WARSAW, Poland (AP) Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Tuesday said authorities have detained 32 people suspected of coordinating with Russia to engage in acts of sabotage, according to Polish news agency PAP. One person has been convicted, while the others are in custody awaiting trial, PAP reported. The group includes a Pole, Russians, Ukrainians and Belarusians, PAP reported, as well as a 27-year-old Colombian man who is accused of two arson attacks in Poland last year at Russia's behest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Polish Internal Security Agency in a statement Tuesday said he faces up to 10 years to life in prison in connection with the arson attacks on two construction warehouses in May 2024. The suspect allegedly received his instructions, including how to make a Molotov cocktail to start the fires, from someone associated with Russian intelligence, the agency said. Other details about the suspects or the alleged sabotage were not immediately available. WARSAW (Reuters) -A Colombian national acting on behalf of Russian intelligence carried out two arson attacks in Poland last year, before setting fire to a bus depot in the Czech Republic, the Polish Internal Security Agency (ABW) said on Tuesday. ABW said the 27-year-old suspect set fire to two construction supply depots in Poland in May 2024 on orders from the Russians as part of a hybrid warfare campaign. "He was trained by a person connected to Russian intelligence services ... They taught him how to prepare incendiary materials, Molotov cocktails, and how to document these arson attacks," Jacek Dobrzynski, a spokesman for the coordinator of special services, told a press conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photographs and video recordings were used by Russian-language media for disinformation and propaganda purposes, ABW said. Russian media then falsely reported that one of the fires was at a logistics centre in the city of Radom used to store military equipment provided by Europe as aid for Ukraine, Dobrzynski said. The Russian embassy in Warsaw, responding to a Reuters inquiry, said it does not comment on such unfounded accusations. Dobrzynski said that following the arson attacks in Poland, the Colombian travelled to the Czech Republic, where he set fire to a bus depot. He was believed to be preparing another attack on a shopping mall when Czech authorities detained him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He was sentenced to eight years in prison for acts of terrorism he committed (in the Czech Republic). In Poland ... he faces up to 10 years in prison or even a life sentence," said Dobrzynski, adding that the man had partially admitted guilt. Poland has been a target of sabotage, which officials say is part of a "hybrid war" waged by Moscow to destabilize countries that support Ukraine in the war with Russia, involving tactics like arson and cyberattacks. Russia has in the past denied involvement in such attacks. (Reporting by Barbara Erling and Pawel Florkiewicz; editing by Giles Elgood) AUSTIN (KXAN) A 19-year-old is dead following an vehicle-pedestrian crash in south Austin near Onion Creek Friday morning, an Austin Police Department news release said. Around 7:30 a.m., APD officers responded to the 5700 block of East William Cannon Drive for a collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian. Police identified the pedestrian as Opendra Bohara, 19. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The department said the driver stayed on scene and cooperated with the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This incident is being investigated as Austins 54th fatal crash of 2025, resulting in 58 fatalities. KXAN tracks the number of fatalities in Austin and that data can be found here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. (WFRV) Police officers across northeast Wisconsin spent several hours at local Culvers restaurants for the 2025 edition of Cops at Culvers, a fundraiser for the Police Lights of Christmas program. Over in Neenah, the Fox Crossing Police Department and Wisconsin State Patrol united with the Neenah Police Department to raise awareness from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Howard Fire Rescues busy morning sees crews battle flames and rescue trapped owl Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers stood outside and inside, serving customers and taking orders while holding the doors for those seeking a sweet treat and a taste of a Wisconsin staple. The Westowne Drive Culvers will be staffed with officers for the fundraiser again on Tuesday from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m., with 10% of all sales from 9 a.m. to midnight going directly towards the Police Lights of Christmas program. Neenah Police Department De Pere Police celebrates Cops @ Culvers Neenah Police Department celebrates Cops @ Culvers The program gives law enforcement agencies the money to purchase gift cards. These gift cards then go back into the community, as agencies distribute them to those who are struggling and in need of help during the holiday season. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers in De Pere are at the Culvers located at 1499 Lawrence Drive, in the same parking lot as the Walmart Supercenter near I-41. The De Pere Police Department had officers at the location from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and will return at 4 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. A total of 65 Culvers locations across Wisconsin are participating in the event, including three in Green Bay: 909 Hansen Road 2945 Voyager Drive 1219 West Mason Street University of Wisconsin Hospitals ranked Number 1 in Wisconsin for 14th consecutive year The full list of participating locations can be found at the following link. Click the following link to learn more about the Police Lights of Christmas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. (FOX40.COM) Two suspects have been arrested after an alleged stabbing that took place outside of a business in Citrus Heights on Sunday afternoon. Video above: How to report a public safety threat According to the Citrus Heights Police Department, officers responded to the 7900 block of Auburn Boulevard regarding a stabbing. Multiple people called 911, reporting that an argument between two groups had occurred and that at least two people were stabbed. CHPD officers had located the two adult male victims who had been stabbed. Responding officers rendered medical aid before paramedics arrived at the scene. Sacramento Metro Fire transported the two victims to a local hospital, and theyre both expected to survive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CHPD stated that a witness provided the description of the suspect and their vehicle to the officers. The CHPD real-time information center operator began investigating the suspects possible locations using law enforcement technology in the area. Two Sacramento residents sentenced to prison for false income tax returns The suspects have been identified as 19-year-old Alejandro Roque Jr. and 18-year-old Moses Leyva, police said. Roque was arrested on suspicion of felony battery that caused serious bodily injury and carrying a concealed firearm, according to CHPD. Leyva was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon and carrying a concealed firearm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CHPD said that both of the suspects were booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail. Anyone with additional information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Citrus Heights Police Departments Crime Tip Line at 916-727-5524, officials said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. (NewsNation) Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge announced that five people face charges stemming from a violent brawl in the citys downtown, vowing that more is coming. Several angles of the fight went viral, with video showing a group surrounding and beating a man, and another angle showing a woman who appears to be knocked unconscious hitting her head on the concrete. People have blamed police for not being on site, but Theetge responded by saying only one person called 911. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo of suspect in Devils Den State Park killings released Officers were on the scene in six minutes, but by then the brawl was over. A number of suspects have been identified, and county prosecutor Connie Pillich said it is her understanding that two arrests have been made in connection with the brawl. Pillich previously acknowledged she will prosecute any suspects to the fullest extent of the law. Authorities are continuing to ask the suspects to turn themselves in. Theetge defended the police response, saying that police got a call at 3:06 a.m. and were on scene within six minutes. She also lashed out at the media in a press briefing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another topic I want to cover real quick is social media and journalism and the role it plays in the incident, she said. And yes guys, thats you. That is you. The social media post that weve seen does not depict the entire incident. That is one version of what occurred. Many have slammed her and the citys response. Vivek Ramaswamy is running for governor of Ohio, and he says its unconscionable that there were no police present in that area of Cincinnati on a Friday night. Minnesota National Guard deployed over cyberattack He also questioned why there wasnt an ambulance to take the woman who was knocked unconscious to the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Corey Bowman, half-brother to Vice President JD Vance, is running for mayor and blames the fight on mismanagement. We have to look at the root issue of this and thats mismanagement. We have this saying, thats trickle-down incompetence, Bowman said. The incompetence is coming from the top down and we have to fix it. One of the victims of the brawl, the woman who was knocked unconscious, is a single mother who was out celebrating a friends birthday party that night. Authorities say she is doing okay. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) Protesters clashed with police on Tuesday in a southwestern Serbian town following the reported forced expulsion of a group of students from a faculty building where they had been camping for months as part of nationwide anti-government demonstrations. Hundreds of protesters in Novi Pazar chanted slogans against Serbias populist President Aleksandar Vucic and demanded that the students be allowed to return to the building. Protesters threw bottles at police who responded with batons. Police said in a statement they were attacked and acted with restraint while preserving public peace. Officers later withdrew as the students chanted victory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday evening, protests were held in several cities and towns in support of the Novi Pazar students. In nearby Kraljevo, demonstrators outside the ruling Serbian Progressive Party were sprayed from a water hose while pelting the building with eggs and bottles. Police in the northern city of Novi Sad pushed protesters away from the ruling party's offices there. In the Novi Pazar violence, anti-government activists alleged that the unidentified men who broke into the state university building between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. on Tuesday, with faculty officials, were members of a private security company in Kraljevo. Videos of the alleged break in were posted on social media. Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabic said the intervention was requested by the faculty management. Political tensions are sensitive for Novi Pazar, a multi-ethnic town some 300 kilometers (180 miles) from the capital of Belgrade. There is a divide between Bosniak Muslims, who make up the majority of the population, and Serbs, which stems from ethnic wars in the 1990s triggered by the breakup of former Yugoslavia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last November, student-led demonstrations first erupted in Serbia after the collapse of a concrete canopy at a renovated train station killed 16 people. Many blamed the tragedy on alleged widespread corruption in state-run infrastructure projects. Vucic has stepped up pressure on universities to curb the protests challenging his increasingly authoritarian rule. Most faculties in Serbia have restarted lectures and exams in recent weeks to avoid a study backlog but street protests persist, with protesters demanding snap parliamentary elections. A large student-led gathering in Novi Pazar in April was seen as an important step toward bridging the ethnic divide there. Police in the south-western German state of Baden-Wurttemberg are to be allowed to use the analysis software from US firm Palantir, which is controversial among data protection advocates. The regional ruling coalition has resolved its dispute over the software and paved the way for a corresponding amendment to the law, government sources told dpa on Tuesday, confirming earlier reports by regional public broadcaster SWR. The police are to be allowed to use the software as a short-term solution. However, the application is to be subject to special oversight. The Parliamentary Control Committee is also to monitor the use of the software, the sources said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state's ruling Greens and conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) had previously engaged in a significant squabble over the issue. The police in Baden-Wurttemberg had signed a five-year contract with US company Palantir to use the analysis software Gotham, but the legal basis for this had been lacking until now, prompting criticism from the Greens. An amendment to the police law is necessary to permit the software's use. The software was specifically developed for security agencies and is used by intelligence services, the military and police. With Gotham, millions of data points from various sources can be analysed and linked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The German states of Bavaria, Hesse and North Rhine-Westphalia also rely on the software, but they have adapted their police laws accordingly. Palantir was founded in 2003 in the United States, notably by tech billionaire Peter Thiel. He is known for his libertarian and conservative positions, his closeness to US President Donald Trump and his criticism of liberal democracies. In Europe, many view Thiel critically as a result as well as the idea of making security infrastructure dependent on US companies. However, the Baden-Wurttemberg Ministry of the Interior says that Thiel now holds only about 7% of the company. NEW YORK (AP) Police say gunman in NYC office tower shooting had a 'documented mental health history,' but motive is still unknown. A man and a woman have been arrested in connection with the weekend brawl in downtown Cincinnati. Montianez Merriweather, 34, and Dekyra Vernon, 24, have been arrested on felonious assault and aggravated riot charges, according to Cincinnati police. Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge said a third person was in the process of being arrested on July 29. Police had identified five suspects from a violent fight with a crowd of "100 or so people," at Fourth and Elm streets early Saturday, July 26. Multiple videos of the 3 a.m. fight Downtown circulated on social media over the weekend, raising concerns about safety amid the city's recent push to reduce crime in its urban core. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Downtown Cincinnati restaurant owners call for 'real plan' to address crime, violence Merriweather was indicted on four felony charges on July 10 after investigators said he was found to be in possession of a stolen firearm. Court records show he is charged with carrying concealed weapons, receiving stolen property, improper handling of firearms in a vehicle and weapons under disability. The last charge is due to a prior felony conviction in 2009 for aggravated robbery, the documents state. In the weapons case, Merriweather was released after posting 10% of a $4,000 bond. "He never should have been out," said Ken Kober, Cincinnati police union president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Enquirer has reached out to the attorney who represented Merriweather in the previous case for comment. Hamilton County court records show Vernon has no prior criminal convictions in the county. The Enquirer will update this breaking news report. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Police identify 2 people arrested in connection with Cincinnati fight TYLER, Texas (KETK) Two parents were arrested Monday after four children were left alone in a vehicle for at least 45 minutes at a Tyler Walmart parking lot. Man arrested after 18-wheeler crash in East Texas injures two, spills diesel According to the Tyler Police Department arrest affidavit, around 4:56 p.m., officers responded to the Walmart on 6801 S. Broadway, where four young children, ages 10, five, two and five weeks were left in a vehicle since 3:58 p.m. while the parents, Emily Bearden, 27, and David Bearden, 28, both of Arp shopped. Mugshots of Emily Bearden and David Bearden, courtesy of the Smith County Jail The document said that while the parents were in the store, one of the children turned off the vehicle, causing the oldest child to eventually leave the vehicle without supervision at around 4:45 p.m. and begin to ask for help as all the children were overheating and in distress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Onlookers went into the store stating children were left unattended in a hot vehicle, and only then did David, along with his wife, exit the store, the affidavit said. Instead of calling for medical assistance, David and his wife attempted to leave the store without contacting any first responder for assistance. It was then that David was stopped nearby and contacted. Sanderson Farms among East Texas businesses to file lawsuit over water dispute When first responders evaluated the children, they were found to be flushed red, sweating and with disheveled hair. One of the children spontaneously uttered to police, We were burning in here. CPS was notified, and the children were released to their grandmother while both parents were arrested for abandoning/endangering a child, the department said. You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. A gunman opened fire inside the Manhattan skyscraper that is the headquarters of private-equity firm Blackstone and the NFL, killing four people, including a police officer, before fatally shooting himself on Monday evening, authorities said. Another person was in critical condition, and others suffered less serious injuries. Surveillance video showed the shooter, identified as 27-year-old Shane Tamura, entering the lobby of 345 Park Ave., a 44-story building that is home to Blackstone, KPMG, the NFL, and Rudin Management, a property manager. Tamura sprayed the lobby with gunfire before proceeding to Rudins office on the 33rd floor, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shooter drove cross-country from Nevada, arriving in New York earlier on Monday. Ammunition was found in his car, according to authorities. New York City Mayor Eric Adams said Tuesday that investigators were probing whether the gunman had been targeting the NFL offices; a note found on Tamura mentioned the league, and claimed he suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy, CTE, from playing football. An employee of the league was seriously injured, Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) It was a hot one on Monday, but members of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Holyoke stayed cool with a sweet surprise. Dozens of student athletes join law enforcement for a game of basketball in Springfield Local business Janitize teamed up with the Holyoke Police Department to host an ice cream day at the club on Nick Cosmos Way. The frozen treat offered kids a fun break from the heat during the clubs summer programming, which runs through August. President Eileen Cavanaugh told 22News, We are just really grateful to mark who not only does a great job with Janitize- his staff here in our buildinghe recognizes how important it is to be a part of the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Holyoke offers enriching programming all year long, serving countless local youth. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Three people have been arrested in connection with a brawl in Cincinnati after footage of the incident went viral. Police in the US city earlier said they were searching for a total of five people in connection with the fight, which sparked reaction by Vice-President JD Vance, Elon Musk and others. Montianez Merriweather, 34; Dekyra Vernon, 24; and Jermaine Matthews, 39, have been charged with assault and aggravated riot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to police records, Mr Merriweather and Ms Vernon were additionally charged with felonious assault, which is punishable by up to eight years in prison. The melee broke out just after 03:00 local time (07:00 GMT) on Saturday, according to Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge. Footage went viral after being posted online, including to a local crime-focused Facebook page. Mr Merriweather was indicted earlier in July on weapons charges and a count of receiving stolen property, but was released on bail after paying 10% of a $4,000 (3,000) bond. Police union officials criticised the judge in the previous case. Ken Kober, president of the city's Fraternal Order of Police lodge, told the Cincinnati Enquirer that Mr Merriweather "never should have been out" of jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Records indicate Mr Merriweather is now being held on $500,000 bond. Bond has been set at $200,000 for Ms Vernon and $100,000 for Mr Matthews. Lawyers for the three could not immediately be identified. Fox News and other US media reported that the FBI is also investigating the incident. Cincinnati is a city of about 300,000 people in south-west Ohio [Getty Images] It is unclear what triggered the brawl early on Saturday, or what happened before or after people started recording the incident with their phones. One video showed two men square off, with bystanders variously filming, watching and attempting to intervene, before a vicious fight broke out. One of the men was surrounded by others who began beating him in the middle of a downtown street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other scuffles broke out and a man was seen punching a woman until she lost consciousness. At a news conference on Monday, Chief Theetge said that out of the roughly 100 people in the area at the time, only one called police and that alcohol consumption played a part. "They were fighting in front of traffic. Why didn't somebody [else] call us?" the police chief said. Vice-President Vance told a crowd in Canton, Ohio on Monday that the incident was "disgusting". 'What I saw, and I haven't seen the full context, but what I saw is a mob of lawless thugs beating up on an innocent person," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I hope every single one of those people who engage in violence is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law." Vance grew up nearby, and his half-brother Cory Bowman is running for mayor of Cincinnati. Bowman criticised city officials and called the video a "wake-up call". Vivek Ramaswamy, a former Republican Party presidential candidate who also grew up in the area and is running for Ohio governor, criticised the response and accused "leftists" of being soft on crime. Chief Theetge said traffic was heavy in the area because of several events late on Friday, but officers were on the scene six minutes after the call. By that time, the assailants had scattered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The virality of the video was also propelled by people suggesting that race was a motivation for the fighting and that the story allegedly did not receive media attention because several assailants were black. An unnamed witness told local news station WXIX the confrontation began 15 minutes before the video's start, and a group was overheard making "racial comments". One man in the initial confrontation shown on the video was white while several others were black, and the white man was later beaten by a group of what appeared to be mostly black men after the serious violence began. The woman who was punched appeared to be white and struck by a younger black man. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harmeet Dhillon, assistant attorney general for civil rights, posted: "Nobody in our great nation should be the victim of such a crime, and where race is a motivation, federal law may apply." Videos, though, also showed black men trying to help quell the violence. Signal 99, the Facebook account that first brought some of the footage to light, posted that "these are not blacks targeting whites, simply for being white". "We saw several black men attempt to intervene last night, knowing they could be jumped next by the mob. So please stop with the racist commentary," the post also read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The uncertainty around the event did not stop several popular right-wing accounts from speculating about its cause. "HORRIFIC: White couple brutally beat by black mob in Cincinnati," wrote the Libs of TikTok account on X. "You probably won't see this story in the MSM [mainstream media]." Elon Musk replied to that message and to another tweet, writing "Why zero stories?", despite coverage in a number of local and national news outlets. The BBC has contacted Musk, Libs of Tiktok and Signal 99 for comment. A police department in a Maine resort town said that a reserve officer who was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week received approval from the federal government to work for the department in May. ICE accused the police department of knowingly hiring an immigrant who is in the country illegally, which the police chief denies. ICE arrested Jon Luke Evans, a summer reserve officer with the Old Orchard Beach Police Department, on Friday, according to a statement from the agency released Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency said that Evans had unlawfully attempted to purchase a firearm, triggering an alert with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, which worked with ICE to make the arrest. ICE said that Evans is a Jamaican citizen who lawfully entered the U.S. on a visa on Sept. 24, 2023, and that he was supposed to depart on Oct. 1, 2023, but never boarded his flight, overstaying his visa. It was not immediately clear whether he had an attorney. The Old Orchard Beach Police Department said in a statement on Monday that as part of its standard hiring process, Evans completed an I-9 federal immigration and work authorization form to verify that he was legally able to work in the U.S. Police Chief Elise Chard said in the statement that the town reviewed multiple forms of identification and submitted the forms for Evans to the Department of Homeland Securitys E-Verify Program. The system is operated by the Department of Homeland Security in partnership with the Social Security Administration to let employers know if a prospective employee has legal authorization to work in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Department of Homeland Security then verified that Evans was authorized to work in the U.S., Chard said. The form was submitted and approved by DHS on May 12, 2025. Evans would not have been permitted to begin work as a reserve officer until and unless Homeland Security verified his status, she said. In Old Orchard Beach, reserve police officers are part-time, seasonal employees who must meet the same background checks, pass the same physical agility tests, and receive the same medical evaluations as full-time police officers, Chard said. Maine is one of about a dozen states that allow noncitizens to work in law enforcement. Some of those states require the immigrant to be a green-card holder, while others, such as Maine, require the immigrant to be legally authorized to work in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ICE disparaged the police department in a statement. The fact that a police department would hire an illegal alien and unlawfully issue him a firearm while on duty would be comical if it werent so tragic," ICE's acting field office director in Boston, Patricia Hyde, said in the statement. "We have a police department that was knowingly breaking the very law they are charged with enforcing in order to employ an illegal alien." Chard said the police department takes its legal responsibilities very seriously, and takes great care to follow the laws that we are tasked with enforcing. In hiring Evans, our department and our community relied on the Department of Homeland Securitys E-Verify program to ensure we were meeting our obligations, and we are distressed and deeply concerned about this apparent error on the part of the federal government. We intend to investigate this matter to determine what other steps we should take moving forward to ensure our continued compliance with all applicable laws, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ICE said that Evans told ICE officers that he had tried to buy the firearm for his job as a police officer with the Old Orchard Beach Police Department. Chard said that reserve officers receive firearms training and are issued firearms but must turn them in at the end of each shift and that reserve officers are not requested to, nor are they allowed to purchase or carry any other firearms for the performance of their duties. She said that reserve officers have a lengthy probationary period and that the department will conduct an internal review of the circumstances and that Evans probation status is under review. Maine has some 34,000 immigrant workers, or 4.6% of the states labor force, according to the American Immigration Council. There are also an estimated 5,800 unauthorized immigrants of working age in the state, according to the council. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Rachel Maddow reports breaking news of a shooting in an office building in Manhattan that has left five people dead, including a police officer. Authorities have identified the shooter as Shane Tamura. MSNBC investigative reporter Marc Santia reports the latest known details and avenues of inquiry being pursued by investigators. A New York police officer, a beloved security guard, a young Cornell graduate and a senior executive with investment firm Blackstone were killed Monday when a lone gunman stormed a sprawling office tower in Midtown Manhattan and opened fire. The shooter then killed himself, ending the deadliest gun attack in 25 years in the nations most populous city. As investigators probe a motive and an NFL employee injured in that attack recovers at a hospital, heres what we know about those killed: Immigrant police officer with baby on the way Didarul Islam, a 36-year-old New York Police Department officer, was a Bangladeshi immigrant hailed as a hero by city officials. He leaves behind two young sons and his wife, who is pregnant with their third child. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Islam had been off duty but in uniform working security in the building when he was shot and killed, New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. Islam was doing the job that we asked him to do, Tisch said at a news conference Monday night. He put himself in harms way, he made the ultimate sacrifice shot in cold blood, wearing a uniform that stood for the promise that he made to this city. He died as he lived, a hero. His death is the 50th law enforcement death this year, according to the Officer Down Memorial page. Islam had served in the NYPDs 47th precinct in the Bronx for 3 1/2 years, Mayor Eric Adams said at the news conference. He was his fathers only son, said Adams, who met with Islams family Monday night and told them, He was a hero and we admire him for putting his life on the line. The New York City Police Department shared a photo of Didarul Islam, the officer killed in Monday's shooting. - NYPD Everyone we spoke with stated he was a person of faith and a person that believed in God and believed in living out the life of a godly person, the mayor said. He was saving lives. He was protecting New Yorkers. He embodies what this city is all about. Hes a true-blue New Yorker, not only in a uniform he wore. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Muhammad Mamunur Rashid lived next door to Islam. He described his neighbor as a very good person, saying his whole family are good people. Islam lived with his father and mother, his wife and their two children, Rashid said. Messages honoring the fallen officer and consoling his family have flowed in from New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and police departments as far away as Los Angeles. Police Officer Didarul Islam represented the very best of our department, the NYPD posted on X. He was protecting New Yorkers from danger when his life was tragically cut short today. We join in prayer during this time of incomprehensible pain. We will forever honor his legacy. Just past midnight Tuesday, officials lined the streets outside a hospital to perform a guard of honor as Islams body was transferred to an ambulance. Some saluted, while others held their hands over their hearts as he was wheeled out. A Cornell graduate and Manhattan native Julia Hyman, an associate at Rudin Management, the real estate firm that owns the Park Avenue building, was also killed, according to Cornell University, where she graduated from in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rudin said Monday an employee was killed in the shooting but it didnt provide a name. Hyman was a Manhattan native and studied hotel and restaurant administration in college, the university said. Her first job after graduating was with Sagehall Partners, founded by a fellow Cornellian. Julia was on campus earlier this summer for her five-year reunion, Cornell said. Julia Hyman graduated from Cornell University in upstate New York in 2020. - From Julia Hyman The university said it is devastated for Hymans friends and family, adding her sister Ali also graduated from Cornell in 2017. We extend our deepest condolences to all the families whose loved ones were lost in this senseless act, the statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cornell dean and professor Kate Walsh described Hyman as an extraordinary student. Julias passion for real estate led her to pursue a minor in the field and build a successful career after graduation, Walsh told CNN. Her journey was marked by determination, warmth, and a strong commitment to learning. We grieve this heartbreaking loss and extend our deepest condolences to everyone who was touched by her light, Walsh added. In high school, Hyman was a tri-varsity athlete in soccer, swimming and lacrosse and captain of all three sports during her senior year, according to a statement from Riverdale Country School, an independent K-12 school in New York City that Hyman graduated from in 2016. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are simply heartbroken by this loss, and will forever remember Julia for her light, her bright smile and infectious laugh, and the kindness and sense of community that she brought to school every day, Kari Ostrem, head of the school, said in a statement Tuesday. Deeply respected Blackstone executive Also slain was Blackstone employee Wesley LePatner, the investment firm confirmed Tuesday. She embodied the best of Blackstone and leaves behind a husband and children, the firm said in a statement. She was brilliant, passionate, warm, generous, and deeply respected within our firm and beyond, Blackstone said. LePatners family called her the most loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and relative, who enriched our lives in every way imaginable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this unbearably painful time, we are experiencing an enormous, gaping hole in our hearts that will never be filled, yet we will carry on the remarkable legacy Wesley created, her family said. Wesley LePatner worked for the investment firm Blackstone. - From Wesley LePatner LePatner, who earned a bachelors degree from Yale University in 2003, worked as a senior managing director of real estate in New York, her Blackstone profile says. LePatner was an active volunteer serving on the Yale University Library Council, the For Humanity fundraising campaign committee, and was a member of the Sterling Fellows, according to the university. She served on philanthropic boards, including since February as a trustee of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, where she also was a member of the Friends of European Paintings group, the museum said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LePatner also was a trustee of the United Jewish Appeal Federation of New York and The Abraham Joshua Heschel School, where one of her children attends seventh grade, according to Blackstone and the school. She was a uniquely brilliant and modest leader and parent, filled with wisdom, empathy, vision, and appreciation, a letter to the school community reads. Quite simply, Wesley made the world and all of the institutions that she touched, including the Heschel School a better place. A New York hero security guard Aland Etienne, the security guard who was killed in Monday's shooting, was also a father, his brother Gathmand Etienne told CNN in a statement. - From Gathmand Etienne Aland Etienne, a dedicated security officer who took his job duties extremely seriously, also was killed in Mondays mass shooting, according to his family. My family suffered a heartbreaking tragedy, Etiennes brother, Gathmand Etienne, told CNN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was more than a brother he was a father, a son, and a light in our lives, Etienne said. Our hearts are shattered, and were asking for your prayers and strength as we navigate this painful time. Rudin, the company that owns the Park Avenue building, had called Etienne a beloved lobby security guard. Etiennes death speaks to the sacrifice officers make to protect others, said Manny Pastreich, President of 32BJ SEIU, the union that represents more than 185,000 property service workers in 12 states, including more than 20,000 security officers in New York. Every time a security officer puts on their uniform, they put their lives on the line. Their contributions to our city are essential, though often unappreciated. Aland Etienne is a New York hero. We will remember him as such, Pastreich added. CNNs Elise Hammond, Dakin Andone and David Williams contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Police opened fire on hungry refugees in northern Kenya on Monday amid a worsening food crisis triggered by the abrupt withdrawal of US humanitarian funding. At least two people were reportedly killed after angry protesters attempted to storm a United Nations facility in Kakuma, a settlement housing more than 300,000 refugees. Aid workers have warned of a looming humanitarian crisis in Kenyas refugee camps after the UNs World Food Programme (WFP) was forced to slash rations when the Trump administration cut foreign aid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until January, the United States funded 70 percent of WFPs programme feeding more in the Kakuma and Dadaab camps, which house more than 800,000 refugees who have fled conflict and natural disaster from more than a dozen countries in Africa and beyond. But shortly after Donald Trumps inauguration, the State department halted contributions, leaving WFP unable to provide more than 30 per cent of the minimum daily calories needed to stay healthy. Assistance is usually split between direct food aid and cash handouts, designed to give refugees choice and support small businesses in the camps. But ration cuts have left many families skipping meals, with child and adult malnutrition rising sharply. The crisis is most acute at Kalobeyei, an experimental settlement within Kakuma where more than 70,000 refugees relied almost entirely on cash transfers. Handouts stopped altogether at the end of June, collapsing local businesses and driving many into debt. Workers unload a WFP shipment of rice bound for refugee camps at the Kenya Ports Authority terminal in Mombasa - Laban Walloga/REUTERS Ironically, Mondays protest, which was centred on Kalobeyei, was sparked by news that the programme would resume but only partially. Refugees were divided into four categories, with the most vulnerable receiving just 3-6 a month, while the rest would get nothing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hundreds gathered outside a WFP storage facility at dawn to denounce what they called differentiated assistance. As crowds swelled, the protest turned violent, witnesses said. They broke down the doors and were attacking people with knives and stones, said one refugee, injured by a rock and trapped inside with WFP staff. We managed to escape in WFP vehicles but a number of people were hurt. Witnesses said demonstrators set fire to an empty warehouse before police opened fire, killing two people and wounding several others. Kenyan police and UN officials declined to comment on casualties but The Telegraph was able to confirm the death of one protester, shot in the back of the head. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WFP said it was investigating. The World Food Programme (WFP) can confirm that a fire broke out at its storage facility in Kalobeyei Settlement in northern Kenya on Monday 28th July, a WFP spokesperson said. WFP and the local authorities are looking into the circumstances surrounding this incident and assessing any damage or losses. WFPs priority is the safety and well-being of the people we serve, and our staff. Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. CANTON TWP. A 13-year-old girl was fatally shot July 29 at the Ridgeline at Canton Apartments, the Canton Police Department said. In a Facebook post, the department said officers responded to the apartment complex located off Joy Road and Honeytree Boulevard about 12:24 p.m. after a shooting was reported. First responders were on scene within minutes and attempted life-saving medical care to the victim, who ultimately died from her injuries, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A person of interest is in police custody, and police said they do not believe there is a threat to the community. The area will remain closed for an undetermined amount of time as the investigation continues. In a related event, the department said a police vehicle was involved in a crash at Cherry Hill and Lilley roads while responding to the 911 call with minor injuries reported. Check back for updates. Contact reporter Laura Colvin: lcolvin@hometownlife.com This article originally appeared on Hometownlife.com: Police: 13-year-old fatally shot at Canton Twp. apartment Beopjusa Temple (Erin Henderson) Since moving to Korea, I have been enamored by the colorful Buddhist temples all over the country which I can assure you are quite a different aesthetic of the southern Baptist churches in North Carolina. Moving to Korea has afforded me the opportunity to explore Korean Buddhism, and one of those ways was with a recent temple stay. Nestled in the base of Sognisan Mountain is Beopjusa Temple (translates to Buddha stays here). Estimated to have its earliest beginnings traced back to 553 AD, Beopjusa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a 100-foot bronze Buddha. It is also home the only five story wooden pagoda in Korea (Palsangjeon). The grounds itself are rich in history and culture, and this temple is one of the 26 temples in Korea that offers a temple stay program. (Erin Henderson) A temple stay program is where you have a chance to immerse yourself in Korean Buddhism and essentially live like the monks for a day (or two depending on your program). Upon arrival, I checked in with a program leader who provided me with the uniform for the duration of the program, then directed me to my room and advised me of the orientation time. The room is simple by design, you are provided with a mat for sleeping and if you want to pay a little extra, you can have a full bathroom in your room with a shower. Temple stay accommodations at Beopjusa (Erin Henderson) Templestay room at Beopjusa (pillows and linens were provided) (Erin Henderson) During orientation, I met the others in our group-a group that was comprised of three Germans, two Belgians, one Scandinavian and one Greek along with myself from the United States. After brief introductions, we learned the history of the temple, Buddhism in Korea as well as temple etiquette-i.e how and when to hapjang, when to kowtow and how to respectfully walk around temple grounds. For those completely not familiar with Buddhism, or Korean Buddhism Ill define some terms as they were explained to me. Hapjang is when you clasp your palms together in front of you while standing and perform a half bow, bending at the waist. Typically, you will do this upon entering the temple grounds, such as in front of the bronze buddha at Beopjusa and it is a considered a sign of respect towards others. When entering the temple, you perform three bows (prostrations): first to show devotion to Buddha, the second for Buddhas teachings (dharma) and the third for the Buddhist community. A kowtow is when you kneel to the ground and place your head on the ground in front of you. Lastly while walking around the temple, you should have your hands in the chasu position, placing your right hand over top of your left. Our temple stay guide James giving us a history of the temple and grounds (Erin Henderson) Our temple stay guide James giving us a history of the temple and grounds (Erin Henderson) After the temple tour, I followed everyone to the dining hall for our first meal, dinner. Meals are buffet style comprised of very clean and healthy vegetarian Korean dishes such as tofu, seaweed salads, soups, fruits and of course, kimchi. After we ate, we washed our dishes and placed them in the drying rack which would become routine for us after each meal. Pro tip, get there early before the food runs out! At 6:30 PM, reminiscent of elementary school days, we lined up two by two in front of our lodging and silently made our way out to the temple grounds for the start of the evening Buddhist ceremony (Yebul). The ceremony began with the playing of the Dharma drum, followed by the ringing of the temple bell, the wooden fish and concluding with the cloud gong. Monk playing the drum at Beopjusa Temple (Erin Henderson) The ceremony the first evening was mesmerizing to be a part of. Though I could not understand most of it, they provided the translation on a laminated sheet to make it easier to follow along. The whole experience was completely new to me though I did find some similarities to Christian worship services. The great thing about a temple stay is having the grounds virtually to yourself in the evening and early mornings. After the evening ceremony we were dismissed and free to roam the grounds until closing. Some took to meditation on the grounds, others to selfies with Buddha and I myself found a nice tree to sit under to write and observe. The mountain air was crisp, birds chirped loudly all around and the beat from the monks still worshipping played off in the distance. Templestay attendees at sunset (Erin Henderson) snazzy uniforms (Erin Henderson) My turn posing with Buddha (Erin Henderson) Lights in our rooms were required to be out by 9:30 PM- we had a 4 AM wakeup the following morning so that was fine by me. By 4:20 AM we were back in our uniforms standing in our two-by-two line to walk to the morning ceremony. After the morning ceremony, we performed our 108 prostrations (act of repentance) and strung our prayer beads. No one in our group really had any idea of what to expect for this portion, so when our guide, James, explained we would have to perform 108 kowtows, some of our eyes widened in surprise as we all looked around at each other. You perform one kowtow, string a bead, stand back up and repeat, 108 times. I performed 109 unknowingly since I had an extra bead so that was an extra for good measure. Throughout the prostrations the girl next to me and I fell in sync and we simultaneously completed them together as if having our own little race to finish-and we did, finish first in case you were wondering. Daeungbojeon Hall (Erin Henderson) It took about 30 minutes to string prayer beads, then after that we were dismissed for breakfast. There was some free time after breakfast and most of the group crawled back onto the sleeping mats for a much-needed snooze. Post free time, we reassembled for a two-hour hike down the road that King Json took walked when he came to Beopjusa. It was a beautiful stroll in lush greenery complete with views of the mountains and water. Views during our morning hike (Erin Henderson) After our morning hike, we gathered for one last meal together before heading our separate ways. Many in the group were continuing further south in their travels across Korea, some venturing north back to Seoul, and I was heading home to Pyeongtaek via a two-hour drive. Our program didnt have a tea ceremony ritual which I was really looking forward to, so I am planning to do another stay at a different temple in the near future. Perfect weather, Korean culture and new acquaintances from across the world created an experience I will never forget. Booking Information: https://eng.templestay.com (select your temple choice from the drop down) Cost: Adult 80,000 won/child 40,000. For 100,000 won you can have your own room with a shower. Address: 405 Beopjusa-ro, Songnisan-myeon, Boeun-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, South Korea Parking: For templestay attendees, you let the gate guard know you are there for the temple stay and they will direct you to park near the program housing. U.S. Rep. Mike Collins made his run for Senate official on Monday, and in an ad posted to the Mike Collins War Room account on X, there was a bit of a mistake. At the end of the video posted on Sunday, it ends with the words Georgia, Lets Ride. But the word Georgia is spelled wrong. The text actually reads: Georiga. Mike Collins is ready to put the hammer down and get it done. pic.twitter.com/lgmJcHBd9k Mike Collins War Room (@TeamOverhaulGA) July 27, 2025 The X account says it is the Official team account for @MikeCollinsGA campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins entry into the race was far from unexpected, with him hinting at it for several months. He now joins U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter to try to unseat incumbent Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff. Collins is known for sponsoring the Laken Riley Act, which requires ICE agents to detain undocumented immigrants charged with theft. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins district stretches across 18 different Georgia counties from the suburbs of Atlanta to Athens. Riley was killed by an undocumented immigrant while running on the UGA campus last February. Collins said in a July 8 video posted to social media: I am going to continue to talk with President Trump and his team just about where we can be the best, beneficial, most help in this mission to make sure we get a Republican in the U.S. Senate from Georgia. Both Collins and Carter are looking to get Trumps endorsement in the race. Britons woke up last week to discover that their firehose of digital smut had been strangled, albeit temporarily for consenting adults. Undeniably, the introduction of age verification regulations does mark a huge change in our relationship with the internet, hitherto a pornographic free-for-all. It may feel like a shock to find a third party inserting itself between you and a website, apparently demanding to know who you are, but it shouldnt be a surprise: its eight years since the UK Government published its online harms green paper under Theresa May, and The Telegraph launched its Duty of Care campaign the following year. After much wrangling, the result was the 2023 Online Safety Act. In March, the first part of went into effect, placing new obligations on platforms to remove content that is illegal, but harmful to children: suicide advice, eating disorders or dangerous stunt challenges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The second phase went into force last week, requiring age checks for pornography sites, and other harmful content, such as suicide advice, eating disorders or dangerous stunt challenges. Companies have effectively been treating all users as if theyre adults, leaving children potentially exposed to porn and other types of harmful content, wrote Melanie Dawes, Ofcoms chief executive, in January. The UK is not an outlier in its desire to keep children safe, either. Texas and three other US states require age verification for adult material, and so will Australia. But critics of the law have warned of consequences for free expression from the start, and over-zealous interpretations quickly became apparent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement X, previously Twitter, has already put material behind the age gate, with Benjamin Jones, director of case management at the Free Speech Union of which I am a member identifying a number of posts which were worryingly censored for unverified users. Some supported calls for single-sex spaces for women. One by Wuhan lab researcher Billy Bostickson (a pseudonym) fell foul too; it was part of a thread on the use of bamboo RNA in vaccines. Several posts in a thread discussing Richard the Lionheart were gated, which merely contained a reference to the crusades. Most troublingly, a post linking to a live stream of police arrests at a demonstration at a migrant hotel in Leeds was also taken down. All these bans appear to have been the work of an over-zealous algorithm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some saw this coming. Baroness Claire Fox has written of her dismay at realising how outnumbered speech advocates were when she was in a room as the only free speech advocate, alongside dozens of groups all requesting some clause or addition. Only two of us [peers] consistently opposed the bill myself and Lord Daniel Moylan. I was shocked that so many from the free speech camp of peers were silent, Fox tells me. It became a Christmas tree bill with lots of other things put in it, said Kemi Badenoch as she campaigned for the Conservative leadership last year. She also predicted it will go after people who arent doing anything wrong. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch predicted the Online Safety Bill would go after people who arent doing anything wrong - Peter Nicholls/Getty Images That hasnt quite happened yet, but long overdue moves to enforce accountability on giant, transnational platforms, and better protect children unfortunately coincided with a renewed desire to control political speech. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The good state must take an active role in removing inflammatory speech, the United Nations declared in its 2021 paper Our Common Agenda. It re-emphasised the point last year. William Perrin, one of the architects of Ofcoms approach to regulating online platforms, who was not involved in drafting the legislation, recently posted a paper for the think tank Demos called Epistemic Security 2029: Protecting the UKs information supply chains and strengthening discourse for the next political era. It explicitly calls for the policing of social media platforms. One gets the sense that as long as populists are rising, the impulse to censor will be irresistible to their political opponents. By controlling our discourse, they can control democracy. We have an establishment that is innately hostile to Free Speech, Jones of the Free Speech Union tells me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is very much wrong with this. Against a backdrop of widespread concern about street crime, shoplifting and rampant fraud, the energy devoted by police to what we say online is confounding, from enthusiasm for the category of non-crime hate incidents to the creation of a special monitoring unit. The implicit idea seems to be that if we stop talking about something the underlying problem will go away. With Britain a tinderbox, and a long summer ahead, this seems a brave moment to test the proposition. It is understandable why age verification and clumsy algorithms sow suspicion of the system itself. In reality, however, online anonymity was always illusory. Your broadband operator has always known who you are and which sites you visit. So has the shady VPN provider. Google collected your pornography browsing history even while you were browsing in incognito mode, for which it was sued, agreeing later to delete billions of records in a settlement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What our alarm reflects is a wholesale loss of trust in the Government. Ofcom points to polling showing the Online Safety Act is widely supported. It is highly regrettable that a bien-pensant blob has cynically hijacked child protection law to ensure it has a media landscape more in keeping with its views. But theres plenty of blame to go around. One lesson of the Online Safety Act is that free-speech advocates also needed a plausible child protection plan. They never came up with one and were duly steamrollered. The consequences for Britain may be profound. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) The Polk County Sheriffs Office ended its seasonal Marine Patrol program on Monday, according to a Facebook post. Reduced marine patrols in Columbia County a result of federal cuts According to the post, Sheriff Mark Garton was forced to end the program due to a recent reduction in funding. As KOIN 6 News has previously reported, the Oregon State Marine Board was forced to cut its budget by 30% after a rule change left it ineligible for a federal grant. A kayaker died after an incident involving a ferry on the Willamette River in 2024. (Polk County Fire) Since 1971, that money has come from the Department of Homeland Security for marine law enforcement and education. But as of this year, Oregon is no longer a candidate to receive the grant due to its sanctuary city status. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boaters on the Willamette will still see a law enforcement presence, just from another agency. Gut punch: Hood River County Sheriff cuts services amid funding slump Sheriff Garton told KOIN 6 News in an email that services have just shifted to the Marion County Sheriffs Office. Marion County, which is across the river from Polk County, has a year-round marine patrol program and they have already received funding to cover the 2025-26 fiscal year. Garton said that the process for reporting boating issues or concerns hasnt changed. Both agencies will continue working through the same dispatch center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for search and rescue operations, the Polk County Sheriffs Office will continue managing operations for the section of the Willamette River in Polk County. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. The countrys crisis of confidence has found a home in Utah, especially among the red states minority of Democratic voters, according to a new Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll. Roughly half of Utah Democrats reported having no confidence at all in the U.S. Congress or the Utah Legislature a rate 35 percentage points higher than that of Republicans, the poll found. Democratic distrust comes amid Republican control in Washington, D.C., and Salt Lake City. But it also points to problems beyond political tribalism, said Jason Perry, director of the University of Utahs Hinckley Institute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What we are seeing in the data is not just partisan disagreement, but a much deeper concern about representation, Perry told the Deseret News. It suggests they feel disconnected from the decisions being made on their behalf. This level of dissonance from Democrats toward institutions like Congress and the courts should not be ignored, according to Perry, because it can lead to disengagement, or in some cases, an energized push for change. Whats behind Democratic distrust? The Deseret News/Hinckley Institute poll, conducted by HarrisX from July 9-16, asked 802 Utah voters how much confidence, if any, they have in three national and four statewide institutions. DN-Cox2 The institution that received the greatest expression of disapproval was Congress. Overall, 36% of respondents marked none, as opposed to some or a great deal, to indicate their level of confidence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A small majority, 52%, of Utah voters voiced some confidence in Congress, while 12% responded saying they had a great deal of confidence in federal lawmakers the smallest share of any institution included in the survey. Political institutions are representations of the principles in the United States founding documents, like freedom, equality and the separation of powers, according to Derek Monson, the chief growth officer at Sutherland Institute. Institutional trust comes down to how well the institutions are doing at embodying those ideas and those principles, Monson told the Deseret News. When institutions and their members fail to reflect those principles, then trust erodes, Monson said, because voters start to believe that government officials are not doing the job they were put in power to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least 1 in 5 Utah voters expressed zero confidence toward each of the political institutions included in the survey: 25% for the Utah Legislature, 24% for the governor, 23% for the U.S. Supreme Court and 18% for the Utah Supreme Court. How deep is the partisan divide? Negative feelings toward the legislative branch were pegged closely to partisanship. The poll found that 57% of Utah Democrats had zero confidence in Congress, compared to 48% of independents and 22% of Republicans. Utah Democrats were also much more likely to indicate a lack of confidence in other institutions: 47% of Democratic voters said they have no confidence in the Utah Legislature, compared to 35% of independents and 12% of Republicans. A similar percentage of Democrats (46%) said they have no trust in the U.S. Supreme Court. And Democrats were also the most likely, by significant margins, to distrust the Utah governor (31%) and the Utah Supreme Court (24%). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Utah Democratic Party chair Brian King said the partisan split partially boils down to how party labels affect voter perception. If the party in power were different, King has no doubt Republicans would display more distrust. Brian King, a candidate for chair of the Utah Democratic Party, speaks during the 2025 Utah State Democratic Party Organizing Convention at Ogden High School in Ogden on Saturday, May 31, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News If those labels were reversed, in terms of Democrat versus Republican, the same thing would be true, King said. The out-of-power voter is going to say that the other side is not doing a good job. But Democrats dearth of confidence also stems from White House policies supported by a Republican Congress, governors office and Legislature that leaves them feeling unrepresented, King said. The deficiency in Democratic institutional trust has the potential to decrease political engagement for some who feel hopeless about the system, King said, while galvanizing others who want to push against it. Universities, a positive sign? Republicans did outpace Democrats in their distrust toward one institution, with nearly a quarter of Republicans reporting no confidence in universities nationwide. However, there was clear cross-partisan trust toward Utahs university system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican and Democratic voters shared roughly identical views, with more than 30% of both groups reporting a great deal of confidence in Utah colleges and universities, nearly 60% expressing some confidence and 12% saying none. Many people have direct ties as students, alumni, or family, which builds trust, Perry said. These schools are also leaders in life saving research and innovation, especially in areas like medicine, mental health and cancer. That kind of impact is visible and personal, and it builds confidence and trust in these institutions. A graduate holds a graduation decoration during Brigham Young Universitys commencement ceremony held at the Marriott Center in Provo on Thursday, April 24, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News The confidence Utah voters have in their system of higher education may provide a blueprint for the rest of the countrys institutions, according to Monson, who has researched rebuilding institutional trust at Sutherland Institute. Utahns trust their universities because they observe firsthand the good they can do. In a similar way, if voters engage with people, parties and politicians they disagree with, they can diffuse the misunderstandings that otherwise make the political stakes feel so high, Monson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Too many of us view the other team politically as being a cancer on society, as opposed to a healthy part of a self-governing system, which is going to bring multiple viewpoints to the table and bring them into national solutions, because thats how its designed to work, Monson said. Poll: Job approval for Gov. Spencer Cox Utah voters were also asked to rate how they think Utah Gov. Spencer Cox is doing in his job. Among respondents, 57% either strongly or somewhat approved of the job Cox is doing, similar to the previous Deseret News/Hinckley Institute poll in May. Compared to prior months, Cox saw an uptick in support among Republican voters, from 68% to 71%, and among independents, from 45% to 47%, while falling among Democrats, from 37% to 32%, compared to May. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox talks with Bailey Larson, 12, foreground, and her mother, Jackie Larson, seventh- and sixth-generation farmers, respectively, on their farm in Leland after a press conference about efforts to safeguard Utahs land, liberty and strategic interests from foreign influence, held at a farm in Palmyra on Tuesday, July 15, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News Correction: An earlier version of this story had a graphic from a different months poll. The Scoop New York Citys Democratic primary voters overwhelmingly believe that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and that the United States should stop arming the Jewish state, according to new polling from a pro-Palestinian group and shared first with Semafor. Asked if the city should enforce the arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani supports, 63% of primary voters said yes. The dam has broken, said Margaret DeReus, the executive director of the Institute for Middle East Understanding Policy Project, which paid for Data for Progress to conduct the poll this month. Zohran Mamdanis ability to energize new voters with his bold platform for Palestinian rights should be a wake-up call. A chart showing net favorability of politicians among NYC Primary voters Data for Progress, whose polling captured Mamdanis surge ahead of the June primary, surveyed 531 Democratic voters and asked for their views of major party figures. Mamdani was not the most popular New York Democrat in their data; 68% of primary voters viewed him favorably, compared to 75% who had a favorable view of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those voters were less enthusiastic about the partys New York-based congressional leaders, who have not endorsed Mamdani. Fifty-eight percent had a favorable view of House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and half had one of Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer. The mayoral race might play into those numbers. Fifty-seven percent of New York Democrats said they would be less likely to support any congressional candidate next year who did not endorse Mamdani for mayor. And 72% favored candidates who would vote to withhold U.S. weapons to Israel. Know More The IMEUs Policy Project, founded in 2024, has paid for several studies of the Democratic electorates Israel views, previously conducted by YouGov. During that years election, they found that then-nominee Kamala Harris could win votes by supporting an arms embargo on Israel, which the nominee did not do. In January, they found that 29% of voters who backed Joe Biden in 2020 abandoned Harris over her administrations support for Israels genocide. (The group switched from YouGov to DFP because of DFPs experience polling New York City specifically.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Support for blocking bombs to Israel, recognizing Israels genocide in Gaza, and holding Israel accountable for its violations of the law is not simply the opinion of the majority of Democratic voters, said DeReus. It is the vast, vast majority, and any Democrat who stands with [the American Israel Public Affairs Committee] instead of their own voters is running the real risk of getting voted out of office. Other pollsters have found overlapping trends, as Democrats have grown more supportive of the Palestinians cause and more critical of Israel. In 2023, for the first time, Gallup found that more Democrats sympathies were with the Palestinians, by an 11-point margin. In a poll released this year, the gap had grown to 38 points. Data like that was encouraging to Mamdanis campaign, which navigated a series of news cycles about his criticism of Israel, from his support for arresting Netanyahu to his initial refusal to condemn the phrase globalize the intifada. Though hes cleared the Democratic primary, he still faces a packed November election against Mayor Eric Adams, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa, and independent Jim Walden. IMEUs polling, like most polling during the election, found that voters prioritized issues like housing costs and education over candidates stances on the war in Gaza. Just 27% of Democrats said that relations with Israel played a role in their vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was more surprised at how people were treating Mamdani for the whole election than by the results of our poll, said Ryan ODonnell, DFPs executive director. Mamdani was the one candidate largely in line with Democrats opinions. Beth Miller, the political director of Jewish Voice for Peace Action, said she was not shocked by the polling. Her group endorsed Mamdani as soon as he entered the race; Miller personally volunteered as a canvasser for Mamdanis campaign, where she found that Zohrans support for Palestinian rights was a pull for a lot of people, including many young Jewish voters. Democrats should pay very close attention, and act accordingly, by ending US support for this genocide, Miller said. Someone like Chuck Schumer, someone like Hakeem Jeffries, someone like [New York Rep.] Dan Goldman they have voted to send more arms to Israel as it slaughters and starves Palestinians in Gaza, and that must end. Some progressives have already discussed challenges to Jeffries and Goldman, after Mamdani carried their districts. Usamah Andrabi, the communications director of Justice Democrats, said that these results should wake Democrats up to just how out of touch AIPAC has paid them to be with their own voters. Room for Disagreement Marshall Wittman, AIPACs spokesman, said that the polling from New York mattered less than election results outside the five boroughs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One hundred percent of AIPAC-backed Democrats won their primary last cycle, and the prominent anti-Israel Democratic incumbents lost, said Wittman. Over 95% of AIPAC-backed Democrats won their election in November. Being pro-Israel is good policy and good politics. Brian Romick, the new president of Democratic Majority for Israel, told Semafor that the primary electorate in New York City is not reflective of the Democratic Party, let alone the nation as a whole, and we think people would be wise to not draw too many knee-jerk reactions to it. Just last year, high-profile Israel critics lost primaries, and the solidly pro-Israel Democratic Party platform reflected where the party stood. Of course people have sympathy for Palestinian civilians in Gaza, he said. Its Hamas that doesnt have any sympathy for the plight of the Palestinian people. If they did, they would accept the ceasefire, release the hostages, and end the war. The Republican Jewish Coalition, meanwhile, viewed the poll as a credible CAT scan of what Democrats truly believe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This poll should shake every Jewish New Yorker to their core, said Sam Markstein, the RJCs spokesman. Democrats leaders have appeased, enabled, and embraced this hostility to the Jewish state rather than have the courage and moral clarity to stand against it. There is only one pro-Israel party, and it is the Republican Party. Davids view There are few issues on which the opinions of Democratic voters stray further from their party than continued military support for Israel. (ODonnell told me that only Medicare for All comes close.) Pro-Israel Democrats have sounded the alarms about this, fretting that the continuation of the war the constant, grisly images from Gaza, the literal gifts Netanyahu keeps handing Donald Trump is making it even harder for them. That doesnt mean that every campaign will turn on Israel. But Democrats are starting to reckon with how much their base, at least, wants to stop arming Israel. Michigans Abdul El-Sayed can describe whats happening in Gaza as genocide, and know that theres a victory-sized bloc of primary voters who will agree with him. And Jeffries and other pro-Israel Democrats have condemned the starvation and death of Gazans, in an effort to get in line with a base that is horrified by the war. Notable The Pope, the State Department, the United Nations and a leading Christian group have all condemned a new major attack on Christians in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which the U.N. says left at least 49 dead. In the latest attack in a tragic long string of mass murders by Islamist terrorists in both Nigeria and the DRC, the U.N. said rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a sanctioned rebel group allied to Islamic State with roots in Uganda, burst into a church in the Eastern town of Komanda and set about hacking Christians who were worshipping inside with machetes and other knives. The congregation was attacked at 1 a.m. last Sunday morning, while they were on a night vigil, reportedly praying for peace. The rebels also burnt nearby homes. Nine children are said to be among the dead. Several villagers have been abducted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A State Department spokesperson told Fox News Digital, "The United States designated the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), also known as ISIS-DRC, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization in 2021. We are concerned by reports of the recent attack on civilians in the Democratic Republic of Congo and strongly condemn this cowardly act of violence against Christians in their place of worship." Pope, State Department Condemn Latest Massacre Of Christians By Islamist Militants In Nigeria Pope Leo XIV also condemned the attack. "May the blood of these martyrs become a seed of peace, reconciliation, fraternity, and love for the Congolese people." A Vatican Cardinal added that the Pope "learned with dismay and deep sorrow of the attack." Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.N.s Stablization Mission in the DRC, MONUSCO, expressed "deep outrage at these heinous acts of violence, which constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law and infringements on human rights." "The killings are strategic," Illia Djadi, senior sub-Saharan researcher for Christian charity Open Doors, who support and speak up for Christians persecuted for their faith, stated. He added, "The ADF have a very clear aim: they want to turn a large part of DRC into an Islamic caliphate, like the horrific one instigated in Iraq and Syria in 2014 by Islamic State." Contacted by Fox News Digital on Tuesday, Djadi said, "The presence of Islamic State groups across the region means that sub-Saharan Africa has become the new epicenter of jihadism." Muslims are in the minority here; its said that Christians account for between 80-95% of the population. Bishop's Village Attacked, 20 Slain After Recent Testimony To Congress On Christian Persecution Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 70 Christians were reported beheaded, again in a church in the DRC, in February. The killings of Christians are worse in Nigeria, with Pope Leo XIV telling crowds at the Vatican that "some 200 people were murdered, with extraordinary cruelty" on June 13 in Yelewata, in Nigerias Benue State. According to Open Doors Internationals 2025 World Watch List (WWL), of the 4,476 Christians killed worldwide in WWLs latest reporting period, 3,100 of those who died (69%) were in Nigeria. Djadi told Fox News Digital that despite President Trumps brokered peace deal in the DRC, Christians in the East of the country are still at risk. "There has been a lot of attention paid to the DRC recently, with Donald Trump spearheading a peace initiative between the DRC and Rwanda, whose rebel fighters the M23 have taken a large proportion of territories in the east of the DRC." Christian faithfuls hold signs as they march on the streets of Abuja during a prayer and penance for peace and security in Nigeria in Abuja on March 1, 2020. "However," Djadi added, "while government forces are trying to contain the M23 in the urban regions, the rural areas are left undefended. It has left a security vacuum, meaning that the ADF are free to slaughter hundreds of innocent civilians with impunity, with Christians especially at risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is the primary responsibility of (the) Congolese government to protect the whole nation, regardless of their religious faith or ethnic background. What would happen if the ADF continues its killing unopposed is too awful to contemplate." Original article source: Pope Leo XIV condemns brutal machete attack that killed 49 Christians during prayer in DR Congo Cowboy and former Marine Richard Adcock recently shared his Chickasaw heritage and veteran status at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. During the organizations Military Appreciation night, Adcock rode into the rodeo arena wearing his Chickasaw Warrior Society Pendleton Grateful Nation vest. A photo of me in my Chickasaw warrior vest was taken during the Fort Worth Stockyards Military Appreciation night. Working with this rodeo for nearly 20 years, its always an honor to ride during the rodeos Grand Entry with my vest on. Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Chickasaw Warrior Society Pendleton Grateful Nation vest holds deep symbolism for those who wear it. According to the Chickasaw Warrior Society, the red color symbolizes the blood and sacrifice made by veterans. The stars separate the colors of past wars and conflicts where Chickasaw veterans fought. As well as being a Chickasaw warrior, Adcock celebrates his familys rich western heritage and cowboy traditions as owner of R/A Rodeo Help Company. With a mixture of Chickasaw and Mexican heritage, Adcocks ancestors have worked with cattle and horses for generations. Working and competing with this group of people is like working with family, Adcock said. I have been at the Fort Worth Stock Show since 2007. I worked my way into the arena. For the last 12 years I have been entrusted with opening the bucking chutes. Along with Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo events, R/A Rodeo Help Company works numerous other livestock and rodeo competitions. Adcock has traveled to locations across the country at the request of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) stock contractors. PRCA is the largest and oldest sanctioning rodeo in the world, with events in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. At its peak, the R/A Rodeo Help Company averaged working more than 30 weekends per year for PRCA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adcocks career highlight occurred when PRCA awarded the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo the title of Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year in 2022. The award is given to rodeo organizers who perform at the peak of excellence. Other winners of this award include the famed San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, Rodeo Houston and Rodeo Rapid City. As a former bullfighter, safety is always at the forefront of Adcocks mind. The animals Adcock works with are often aggressive and weigh thousands of pounds. Adcock must ensure that his team, rodeo competitors and livestock worth tens of thousands of dollars do not get injured. Me and my partners jobs are to watch the riders as they are inside (the chute) while sitting on top of the animal, Adcock said. When the rider signals, we make sure to open the gate correctly, letting them out. Popping latches and pulling gates is what we call it. With more than 35 years of experience in the rodeo and livestock industry, Adcock started his career at 10 years old, helping load animals into chutes. Chutes are small pens where bulls, steers, horses or calves are held safely in position before being released into the rodeo arena. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are watching everything from horses acting up to animals trying to lay down. We make sure everything is safe when they come out of the chute, trying to make sure the animal or the rider doesnt get injured upon release, Adcock said. Adcock took part in three of the most dangerous categories within a rodeo during his competitive career, including bull riding, steer wrestling and bareback riding. My uncle got me into rodeos, Adcock said. He was a bullfighter. I decided to start competing when I was a sophomore in high school. I think I was best at bull riding, Adcock said. Out of the three, I was most consistent with bull riding. It was my best category. A Chickasaw Warrior Adcock is also a former U.S. Marine Corps reservist. He was 23 years old when he enlisted. He spent most of his 12-year military career in Texas, with a deployment to Iraq in 2008. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Marines taught Adcock how to work on diesel engines, a job he continues to perform when not working livestock or rodeo events. He separated as a noncommissioned officer with the rank of sergeant. I would recommend service any day of the week to young people, Adcock said. When I joined the Marine Corps, I needed a new outlook, a new start. The Marines helped clear my head and get refocused. It was everything for me. Adcock was told of the Chickasaw Veterans Lodge while in Ada visiting the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center. He made the short walk to the lodge, where he learned of the Chickasaw Warrior Society. The (Veterans) Lodge is unreal. It makes me wish I lived in Oklahoma, Adcock said. It caught me off guard. The amount of effort the tribe put behind it. Our lodge is well made. It is well presented. It is set up to show that we are veterans and what we have done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adcock said he receives his Chickasaw heritage from his mother. After Removal from the Chickasaws historic Homeland, his elders settled in a community near Durant, Oklahoma. Adcocks family relocated to his hometown of Fort Worth, Texas, generations ago. Also proud of his Mexican American heritage, he identifies as Chickasaw, Hispanic and Texan. I didnt learn about my Chickasaw heritage until I was a teenager, Adcock said. That explains why we have so much family in Oklahoma. What the tribe does for everybody, not just us, but for everybody, is unreal. When I must use a hospital, I drive to Ada. Adcock is a proud father of four. His oldest daughter is Larissa, followed by Sydney, Corbin and Annabelle. By Miguel Pereira CANELAS, Portugal (Reuters) -More than 1,300 firefighters backed up by a dozen waterbombing planes battled three big wildfires in central and northern Portugal on Tuesday, with authorities putting most of the country on red alert for fires after weeks of hot weather. In the Arouca area, some 300 km (185 miles) north of Lisbon - where the largest of the fires has been raging since Monday -the civil protection service evacuated several dozen villagers from their homes and closed the scenic trails of Passadicos do Paiva, a popular tourist attraction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's desperate to see this ... we need help, we need air support," said Rafael Soares, a resident of the village of Canelas, recalling a devastating wildfire last September which burned 6,000 hectares (15,000 acres) of forest near Arouca. He blamed the fires on droughts linked to climate change that have left the area's forests bone-dry. Further north, a wildfire has been raging since Saturday in the Peneda-Geres national park near the Spanish border, enveloping nearby villages in thick smoke that led to orders for residents to stay at home on several occasions. Spain sent several waterbombing aircraft to help control the flames in the area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three wildfires were raging in Spain's region of Castile and Leon early on Tuesday, the most severe one near Avila, about 100 km (62 miles) west of Madrid. People in the town of Mombeltran were ordered to remain inside due to the smoke. Hot and dry summers are common across the Mediterranean region, but more intense heatwaves have contributed to destructive wildfires in recent years amid fast-rising temperatures around the globe. Turkey has suffered dozens of wildfires in recent weeks as temperatures have soared, and 10 firefighters were killed last week battling a blaze in the central Eskisehir province. At the weekend, several villages in Greece were evacuated and five people were injured in separate wildfires. (Additional reporting by Inti Landauro;Writing by Andrei Khalip; Editing by Helen Popper) Clashes involving supporters of ousted Bangladeshi premier Sheikh Hasina and security forces in July 2025 killed at least five people, but photos and videos shared in social media posts about the violence are old. The visuals predate the latest unrest by years, while a circulating video from June shows the arrest of a man who tried to steal a cow. "Dressed in police uniforms, they are shooting ordinary people indiscriminately after shutting down the internet in Gopalganj," reads a Bengali-language Facebook post shared on July 16, 2025. The attached photo shows armed policemen standing in a street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The post was shared after clashes erupted in Hasina's hometown of Gopalganj on July 16 when members of her Awami League party tried to foil a rally by the National Citizens Party (NCP), made up of many students who spearheaded the uprising that toppled her government last year (archived link). Human rights activists said security forces had fired indiscriminately during the unrest, killing at least five people. A separate Facebook post on July 17 featured a photo collage of men holding firearms, with a caption that suggested it showed members of the Awami League in Gopalganj. Screenshot of the false posts, taken July 24, 2025, with a red X added by AFP A separate video of police loading a man onto a police van surfaced on YouTube with the caption "Gopalganj" on July 17. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hasina's son, Sajeeb Wazed, had also shared the clip alongside claims it showed police handling a protester that was killed in a "shooting", though his post has since been taken down (archived link). Screenshot of the false post, taken July 22, 2025, with a red X added by AFP Other posts on Instagram and YouTube also linked the visuals to the unrest in Gopalganj. But reverse image searches showed the photos and video are old and unrelated to the clashes. The photo of the armed police was published by local online outlet News Bangla in September 2022 in a report about a policeman who shot an activist during a rally by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to celebrate the organisation's founding (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "On September 1, during a clash with BNP leaders and activists in Narayanganj, Intelligence Bureau Sub-Inspector Mahfuzur Rahman Kanak picked up another policeman's rifle and shot him," the caption of the photo says. The report says Kanak was removed from the intelligence force and transferred to the district police. Screenshot comparison of the false post (left) and the photo from News Bangla (right) The photo of a man holding a firearm shared in the collage was published by Jago News in a report about pro-government groups using weapons against student protesters pushing for a reform of the quota system for public sector jobs in the southeastern port city of Chittagong on July 16, 2024 (archived link). Those demonstrations eventually led to the wider anti-government uprising that year (archived link). Screenshot comparison between the photo used in the circulating collage (left) and the photo from Jago News (right) The men seen in the other three images used in the collage match those seen in a photo published by The Daily Star on July 17, 2024 about the same protest (archived link). Screenshot comparison of the circulating collage (left) and The Daily Star photo (right), with similar elements highlighted in blue and orange rectangles by AFP. AFP found a higher resolution version of the video of a man being loaded onto a van in a Facebook post on June 4, 2025 (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "A robber was caught at Bhadughar Bus Stand cattle market and beaten up before handed over to the police," its caption says. Screenshot comparison of false post (left) and Facebook post from June 4, 2025 (right) The Bhadughar Bus Stand is located in the eastern town of Brahmanbaria Upazila, about 170 kilometres (105 miles) from Gopalganj. Mozaffar Hossain, an officer in-charge at the local Brahmanbaria Sadar Model Police Station told AFP on July 24 the video was filmed at the Bhadughar Bus Stand cattle market on June 4. "The public caught the man red-handed when he attempted to steal a cow. He was handed over to us after being beaten by the people. Later we produced him before court," he said. Papua New Guinea's defence minister has refuted baseless rumours swirling online that the Pacific island nation is deploying troops to Israel following the war with Iran. The false posts have misrepresented old footage of a military exercise in Australia. "PNG is in the 7 allied force joining the Israelites," reads a caption of a video shared June 29, 2025 by a Facebook user in Papua New Guinea. It includes a video of soldiers emblazoned with the logo of news organisation "7News" at the bottom right corner. Screenshot of the false post, taken on July 24 with a red X added by AFP The post, which includes the hashtags "#iranisraelconflict" and "#warzone", has been viewed over 130,000 times and shared more than 500 times. It also circulated on TikTok. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel launched an unprecedented surprise bombing campaign against Iran on June 13, prompting Tehran to respond with drone and missile attacks. A ceasefire between the long-time foes has been in effect since June 24 (archived link). While some Facebook users expressed scepticism over the video, a few appeared to believe the false claim. One user criticised the supposed move as "inviting disaster to a country with no superpower at all". Another said they could "smell WW3... just around the corner". Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape has said his country "continues to stand with Israel" when asked about the conflict with Iran in late June (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But posts about troop deployment to the Middle East are false, according to Defence Minister Billy Joseph (archived link). "It's fake news," Joseph told AFP in a text message sent on July 23. He added that the military exercise shown in the circulating video was "not done in preparation for deployment to any conflict region like in the Middle East, Europe or elsewhere". A keyword search found the original 7News report published May 19, 2025, four weeks before the Iran-Israel war erupted (archived link). The report was about a month-long military exercise called the North Queensland Warfighter (archived link). Screenshot comparison between false post (L) and 7News report The war games -- which included troops from Papua New Guinea, Japan, Malaysia and the United States -- were also featured on the Australian Army's official YouTube page (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli army did not take part in the exercises, Australia's Department of Defence told AFP. The Australian Associated Press has earlier debunked similar posts (archived link). AFP has fact-checked other false claims related to the Iran-Israel war here. Malaysian authorities have rejected a fabricated statement that was attributed to the country's king in social media posts about the Islamic world being deceived by its leaders. The Royal Press Office branded the posts "fake" and there are no credible Malaysian media reports about the purported statement. "Well Said. 'The Islamic world is not weak... but rather deceived by leaders who sold its causes to the Zionists for a cheap price.' Malaysian King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar," reads an X post on July 16, 2025. It includes a photo of Malaysia's king Sultan Ibrahim, who was sworn in in January 2024 (archived link). Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy, with a unique arrangement that sees the throne change hands every five years between the rulers of nine Malaysian states headed by centuries-old Islamic royalty. Screenshot of the false X post captured on July 28, 2025, with a red X added by AFP The quote was attributed to the Johor state ruler elsewhere on Facebook, Instagram, and X and ricocheted among social media users in Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some social media users appeared to believe the posts shared a genuine statement from the Malaysian king. "You spoke the truth sir," one user wrote, while another commented: "So true". A keyword search on Google found a statement from the Royal Press Office posted on Sultan Ibrahim's official Facebook page on July 19, branding posts sharing the quote as "fake" (archived link). "The public is advised to exercise caution and not be easily influenced by statements spread through these fake accounts," read the Malay-language post. Screenshot of Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar's Facebook post taken on July 28, 2025 The Kuala Lumpur Department of Information also shared the same statement on its Twitter page on July 20 (archived link). As of July 29, there have been no credible reports by Malaysian media outlets about the king making any such statement. In a special edition of The POWER Podcast, released in collaboration with the McCrary Institutes Cyber Focus podcast, POWERs executive editor, Aaron Larson, and Frank Cilluffo, director of the McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security and Professor of Practice at Auburn University, discuss the evolving power grid and cybersecurity challenges. Specifically, they highlight the shift taking place from centralized power stations to more distributed energy resources, including solar farms and wind turbines. The conversation touches on the importance of a reliable power grid and the need to protect critical infrastructure. From a national security standpoint, from an economic standpoint, from a public safety standpoint, if you dont have power, all these other systems are somewhat irrelevant, Cilluffo said. Theres no infrastructure more critical than power. Cilluffo noted that artificial intelligence (AI) is requiring increasingly more power, which cant be ignored. If we want to be AI dominant, we cant do that if were not energy dominant, said Cilluffo. The two are inextricably interwovenhand in glove. And if you start looking at where the country wants to be technologically, if we want to lead, we really need to continue to double down, triple down, and look at all sorts of sources of energy as well. While renewables are clearly leading when it comes to new generation being added to the grid today, emerging technologies including small modular reactors, fusion power, deep dry-rock geothermal, and space-based solar power, are on the horizon, promising potentially game-changing energy options. And not to put a fine point on it, but you mentioned so many different forms of energy, and Im reminded of the old test, the A, B, C, or D, all of the above. This sounds like it is clearly an all of the above, Cilluffo proposed. Meanwhile, the enormous energy buildout in China was discussed. China is not just leading, but truly dominating the world in the construction of wind, solar, nuclear, coal, and energy storage projects in 2025, both in terms of capacity and projects under development. This leadership is evident across all five sectors, frequently accounting for the majority, or at least a plurality, of new global construction and installation. China is a primary focus of a lot of our [Cyber Focus] podcast discussion, but its a race we cannot afford to lose, whether its around AI, quantum. And, I think youre spot on; to get there, they recognize the need to really quadruple down on energy, said Cilluffo. I still think that we [the U.S.] want to be at the vanguard driving all of this. And while its widely known that cybersecurity is critically important to energy systems, its often not prioritized the way it should be. Everyone needs to be cyber aware, cyber informed, Cilluffo said. These are issues that we have to invest in. It cant be an afterthought. It has to be something that everyone thinks through. And the reality is, dont think its someone elses problem: a) its all of our problems, and b) dont think that it can be looked at after the balloon goes upyou need to be thinking all of this well in advance. To hear the full discussion, which contains more on innovative energy developments, policy initiatives, efficiency programs, advances in the space program, public-private collaboration, and more, listen to The POWER Podcast. Click on the SoundCloud player below to listen in your browser now or use the following links to reach the show page on your favorite podcast platform: The POWER Podcast 195. Power Grid Security in the AI Era: Why Energy Dominance and Cybersecurity Cant Be Separated For more power podcasts, visit The POWER Podcast archives. Aaron Larson is POWERs executive editor (@AaronL_Power, @POWERmagazine). While New Yorkers are attributing Zohran Mamdanis surprising primary victory to his listening to voters, dozens of members of The Center for Mind-Body Medicines (CMBM) Gaza trauma-healing team have been telling me that listening has saved their lives. As a psychiatrist deeply committed to Freuds talking cure and to the listening the respectful, empathic, non-judgmental attention that is central to it I was hopeful, but also saddened. Saddened because it seemed such a rare and marvelous thing for a politician to actually listen to voters, to hear and respond to their concerns, rather than the shouted demands of party leaders and major donors. And saddened also because I was reminded that listening and particularly, paying respectful attention to those with whom we disagree has largely faded from our public life. Fifty years ago, friends who were Democratic senators enjoyed the company of their Republican counterparts. Their friendly sparring opened minds more often than it hardened positions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In early 2021, I met several times with a group of Democratic members of Congress whod been traumatized by the Jan. 6 assault on the Capitol. They warmly welcomed the opportunity to share fear and anger, their difficulties with sleep and their tarnished trust, with colleagues who listened respectfully. However, when they asked Republican members whod also been threatened, none chose to join. It seems to me that listening has been continuing to lose ground. So many Americans seem trapped in the echo chambers of online algorithms, where opinions only amplify preconceptions and prejudices, where there is little or no room for the empathic responses and learning of true listening. Even when opponents are publicly expressing contradictory opinions (on cable news, for example), I have the sense of performers demanding attention rather than partners listening to one another as they travel towards truth. On the other hand, my 50 years of experience with deeply traumatized people continues to give me hope for the healing power of listening. Gazan women and men whose children have been killed and homes destroyed in this most recent war tell me that the techniques that CMBM teaches, like slow, deep breathing to reduce stress, are important, but that the kind and generous listening of our team leaders is what dispelled suicidal despair. And here in the U.S., I have repeatedly seen catastrophes inspire people on opposite sides of the political divide to listen to one another. When overdose deaths plagued an Appalachian county, our CMBM team was able to bring conservative law enforcement officers and progressive community activists together to share their anger and pain, to appreciate their similarities as well as their differences, and to begin to address community-wide stressors. And our teams have been able to help facilitate the same dynamic elsewhere, after hurricanes Katrina in Louisiana, Harvey in Houston, and Maria in Puerto Rico, and following the wildfires in northern California, as well as after mass shootings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A commitment to listening and a few simple ground rules have been enough to make it possible: bringing together all who are concerned about their community; dividing them into small groups; instructing everyone to speak in turn and from the heart and about yourself; reminding them that while others are speaking they should shut up, breathe deeply, and listen carefully. In these meetings, as in a number of published experimental studies, defensiveness decreased while interest in understanding of and compassion for the others point of view increased. Sometimes opinions changed, sometimes not. But people who listened, and those who were listened to, were able to appreciate each other and (in many cases for the first time) work together. Though heightened in extreme situations, this willingness to listen is widely distributed among Americans. According to one population-wide survey published by Cornell University, two-thirds of Americans are open to hearing the opinions of political opponents. Zohran Mamdani and communities coping with mass tragedies are giving us glimpses of the appeal and power of listening. Perhaps Mamdani, learning the lesson of his campaign, will create ongoing opportunities for New Yorkers to listen to one another. Perhaps other politicians, and the rest of us, can learn from him and our disaster-challenged communities to listen to one another. James S. Gordon, MD, a psychiatrist, is the author of Transforming Trauma: The Path to Hope and Healing, and founder and CEO of The Center for Mind-Body Medicine. The post In Praise of Listening: A Psychiatrists Plea for Our Political Moment appeared first on Katie Couric Media. The Russians launched a missile attack on Kamianske in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on the night of 28-29 July, damaging a maternity hospital. Diana Koshyk, a 23-year-old woman who was pregnant, was killed during her stay at the medical facility. Source: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy; the Krynychky hromada on Facebook Quote from the Krynychky hromada: "The innocent death of the future mother and her unborn baby is an immeasurable pain for the family and anger and indignation for each of us, because the terrorist state continues to destroy the flowers [children ed.] of the Ukrainian nation, the future of our community and the state!" [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town along with their adjacent territories ed.] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Diana Koshyk hailed from the village of Aula, near Kamianske. According to local social media groups, the woman was seven months pregnant and was in the maternity ward, hospitalised because of complications with the pregnancy. Diana was seven months pregnant. Photo: Koshyk on Facebook "My dear goddaughter, my girl, my beauty I simply cant I am weeping Angels like you were few I will take you, my little one, on your last journey as I met you. You will be in my heart forever, my beauty," Dianas godmother Valentyna Mykhailenko wrote. Background: In total, 3 people were killed and another 22 were injured in the missile strike on Kamianske. In addition to the maternity ward, the city hospital department and a three-storey building that was not in operation were also damaged. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! ONCE UPON A TIME, THE PEOPLE TASKED with speaking for the president of the United States were not just excellent communicators but also known for their good sense, composure, diplomacy, truthfulness (for the most part, at least), and tact. Think of the late Bill Moyers, who served as press secretary under President Lyndon Johnson. Or James Hagerty, whose work in the role for President Dwight Eisenhower set a standard by which later press secretaries would be judged. The West Wing would later pay homage to this lineage with Allison Janneys character, C.J. Cregg, who was press secretary and later (improbably) chief of staff for the shows fictional president, Jed Bartlet. Now, as with so much else, those norms have been shattered. President Donald Trumps top-ranking communicators have no place for any of these qualities. Rather they are known for their rashness, haughtiness, vulgarity, mendacity, and pique. They radiate contempt for members of the media who dare to ask tough questions, even obvious ones, and demand subservience in return. Instead of offering perspective, they promote misunderstanding. Instead of encouraging discourse, they deploy invective to shut it down. Here are some examples involving three of the presidents frontline communicators. Karoline Leavitt During a press briefing on May 29, the nations youngest-ever White House press secretary (age 27) accused former First Lady Jill Biden of lying to the American people about the declining mental acuity of her husband, President Joe Biden. (Presumably, she meant to contrast Bidens haziness with the singular sharpness of intellect displayed by her boss, Donald Trump.) According to Leavitt, anybody looking again at the videos and photo evidence of Joe Biden with their own eyes and a little bit of common sense can see this is a clear coverup, and Jill Biden was certainly complicit in that coverup. She suggested that Jill Biden should be forced to testify before a Republican-led congressional inquiry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 23, while appearing on a right-wing podcast, Leavitt upped the ante, referring to Joe Biden as having been a brain-dead president. She made this comment while taking a shot at her predecessor as White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, whom she alleged was not good at the job for a lot of reasons but nonetheless deserved some amount of sympathy for being required to speak on behalf of a guy whose brain had stopped functioning. Leavitt added, I say that with sincerity in my heart. One example of the level of competence Leavitt has brought to the job was presented in March when she attacked a federal judge who ordered a pause to mass deportations under the clearly inapplicable Alien Enemies Act. Leavitt, at a press briefing, railed against Judge James Boasberg, who she said was a Democrat activist appointed to the bench by Barack Obama. As one of the reporters in the room, Garrett Haake of NBC News, felt obliged to point out, Boasberg was actually appointed by President George W. Bush and later elevated to his current position by Obama. Just feel like I should clear that up, Haake said. Leavitt felt no such compunction. Get access to all of our independent coverage of American politics, culture, and society by signing up for a free 30-day trial of an annual Bulwark+ subscription. Sean Parnell In March, the Trump administrations chief Pentagon spokesperson declared that a New York Times report that then-Trump buddy Elon Musk was about to be briefed on possible war scenarios with China as completely fake. The NYT is a propaganda machine that should IMMEDIATELY retract their lies! he thundered on X in pure Trumpian fashion. A month later, the Wall Street Journal reported that the plan to share highly classified information with Musk was scuttled after Trump learned about it in the media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In early July, when CNN reported that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth did not notify the White House before authorizing a pause in U.S. military aid to Ukraine, Parnell fired off an X post calling the story a complete & total fabrication perpetrated by a well established hoaxer. This, after Trump himself publicly acknowledged his cluelessness about the pause at a cabinet meeting: When asked who ordered it, he replied, I dont know. Why dont you tell me? But Parnells crowning entry in the Trump administrations internal competition for most obnoxious spokesperson behavior came on July 23, when he was asked about the Pentagon inspector generals finding that Hegseth shared a classified U.S. military document in an unprotected Signal chat earlier this year. Parnells response, delivered in a statement, was a master class in arrogance, deflection, raw meanness, and sheer falsity: This Signal narrative is so old and worn out, its starting to resemble Joe Bidens mental state. The Department stands behind its previous statements: no classified information was shared via Signal. Lie. Deny. Attack reporters. Blame former presidents. Sneer. Check, check, check, check, check. Steven Cheung In April, Trumps director of communications blasted the Daily Beasts chief content officer, Joanna Coles, for making an inquiry regarding the 79-year-old presidents apparent weight loss. Cheung, in a post on X, called her a piece of shit, clearly suffering from a debilitating case of Trump Derangement Syndrome rotting her pea-sized brain. Really, he put this in writing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He often does, apparently. Cheung followed that in May, when he launched an unhinged attack on HuffPost reporter S.V. Date, who had the audacity to ask why most of Trumps public remarks are not made available on the White House website. You must be truly fucking stupid if you think were not transparent, Cheung declared. The president regularly does multiple press engagements per day and they are streamed live on multiple platforms. In a case of look-whos-talking irony overload, Cheung went on to urge Date to Stop beclowning yourself. Look whos talking. Cheungs disregard for reality was also on full display when he claimed in an X post on June 14, the day of Trumps military parade debacle, that over 250,000 patriots showed up to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the @USArmy. The figure, as others were quick to point out, was wildly inaccurate. Photos of the event showed a sparse crowd with lots of space between attendees. Time magazine described the turnout as being in the tens of thousands. Trump biographer Michael Wolff put the actual total at maybe 40,000, adding that the president expressed disappointment in the low turnout. This prompted Cheung to go after Wolff, which he did by slightly altering the template hed used to attack Coles. Wolff was, Cheung told the Daily Beast, a lying sack of shit who has a severe and debilitating case of Trump Derangement Syndrome that has rotted his peanut-sized brain. Meanwhile, on that same June day, an estimated 4 to 6 million Americans took part in No Kings protests in more than 2,100 cities and towns across the country. Cheung, for his part, dismissed these much larger protests as a complete and utter failure with minuscule attendance. Of course he did. Telling lies like this is what he gets paid to do. By the way, Cheung, like Leavitt and Parnell, is compensated at executive schedule level 4, which means he isand they arepaid $195,200 per year. Wheres DOGE when we need it? Share NEED TO KNOW President Donald Trump praised members of the British royal family during his visit to Scotland Speaking with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump called King Charles and Queen Camilla "really great people" Trump will visit with the royals during his second official state visit in September President Donald Trump didn't visit with King Charles and the royal family during his trip to Scotland this week, but he did have plenty of praise for them while meeting with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the leaders' joint press conference on Monday, Trump said, "Being with Charles, Camilla and everybody, I've got to know a lot of the family members. They are great people. They are really great people." "In that sense, I think the U.K. is very lucky; you could have people that weren't great people," the president continued. "I don't know if I can say that, but you could have people that weren't." President Trump, 79, has previously spoken highly of the late Queen Elizabeth, including a tribute to her after her death in September 2022. "Melania and I are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Together with our family and fellow Americans, we send our sincere condolences to the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom during this time of great sorrow and grief." DOUG MILLS/POOL/AFP via Getty From left: Donald Trump, Queen Elizabeth, Melania Trump, King Charles and Queen Camilla in June 2019 From left: Donald Trump, Queen Elizabeth, Melania Trump, King Charles and Queen Camilla in June 2019 Trump continued: "Queen Elizabeth's historic and remarkable reign left a tremendous legacy of peace and prosperity for Great Britain. Her leadership and enduring diplomacy secured and advanced alliances with the United States and countries around the world. However, she will always be remembered for her faithfulness to her country and her unwavering devotion to her fellow countrymen and women." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After her death, however, several reports claimed that Queen Elizabeth "didn't like" Trump and found him to be "rude." Trump will connect with the royal family again during his official state visit in September. It will be a second and unprecedented state visit for Trump, after he visited the late Queen Elizabeth in 2019 during his first term as president. After Starmer first issued the invitation on behalf of the King in February, a formal letter of invitation known as a "manu regia" signed by the monarch was hand-delivered to the White House by British officials in Washington last month. The president and First Lady Melania Trump will visit with the royal family at Windsor Castle from Sept. 17 to 19. A palace aide said at the time, "His Majesty has known President Trump for many years and looks forward to hosting him and the First Lady later this year." Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! Carl Court - Pool/Getty Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Donald Trump in February 2025 Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Donald Trump in February 2025 However, the Daily Beast reported this week that the King and his inner circle are very concerned about Trump's potential behavior during the visit, given the president's recent mockery of Canada and comments on immigration in the U.K. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Air Force One touched down at Glasgow Airport on Friday, Trump wasted no time commenting on immigration. You better get your act together or youre not going to have Europe anymore," he told reporters. "Youve got to stop this horrible invasion that is happening to Europe, many countries in Europe. Some leaders have not let it happen, and theyre not getting the proper credit, Trump added. I could name them to you right now, but Im not going to embarrass the other ones. But stop, this immigration is killing Europe. While Trump was happy to praise the royal family, he had less kind words for other prominent figures in the U.K. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his press conference with Starmer, he told the prime minister, I'm not a fan of your mayor [Sadiq Khan], a nasty person... He's done a terrible job, the mayor of London." Starmer countered, saying, He's actually a friend of mine. Trump replied, "I think he's done a terrible job." Read the original article on People Pretty crazy; Family sees electric bill nearly double, AES Ohio asking for rate increase A local family said their AES Ohio bill has nearly doubled. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Amanda Collins, who lives in a two-bedroom house, reported that her electricity bill rose from just under $200 to nearly $400. That was pretty crazy for us, Collins said. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She mentioned that her grandmother turned off her air conditioning to cope with the high electric bills, choosing to endure the heat instead. Mary-Ann Kabel, a spokesperson for AES Ohio, explained that increased air conditioning usage during hotter months contributes to higher bills. AES Ohio has requested a rate increase, which could lead to higher costs depending on individual usage. Kabel suggested using high electricity devices like dryers, ovens, and dishwashers at night to help reduce costs. Collins found a solution by using third-party companies to negotiate her electricity rates, which helped cut her bill in half. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its usually about every three months Im going on there and changing, like the third-party provider on their rates, Collins said. On Aug. 7 and Aug. 14, the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has scheduled public hearings regarding AES Ohios application to increase electric rates. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The Prime Minister's Office noted that the IDF paused operations in Gaza from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day to allow for the safe passage of aid convoys. The Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Office acknowledged the difficult humanitarian situation in Gaza but noted that it would continue to work with humanitarian groups to facilitate aid distribution in a Monday statement. We already allow significant amounts of humanitarian aid into Gaza every single day, including food, water, and medicine, the statement read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "While the situation in Gaza is difficult and Israel has been working to ensure aid delivery, Hamas benefits from attempting to fuel the perception of a humanitarian crisis." The PMO noted that the IDF had paused operations in Gaza from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day and designated secure routes from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. to ensure the safe passage of aid convoys. Truck carrying aid lines up near the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and the Gaza Strip, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Rafah, Egypt, July 28, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/STRINGER) Trump pushes back against Netanyahu This comes after US President Donald Trump said he disagreed with Netanyahu, "that there is no hunger in Gaza because they look very hungry." "There are people who are hungry in Gaza - we are helping them, but other countries need to help as well," he continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also said that the US was going to set up food centers with other countries and pledged to be more involved. Were going to set up food centers, and were going to do it in conjunction with some very good people, and were going to supply funds, and we just took in trillions of dollars, we got a lot of money, and were going to spend a little money on some food, and other nations are joining us, Trump said. So, were going to set up food centers where the people can walk in and there no boundaries. Were not going to have fences. Thats real starvation stuff. I see it, and you cant fake that. So, were going to be even more involved. Previously, the IDF noted that the food security situation in Gaza was at a difficult point but stressed it was not at a level indicating famine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this time, the military is attempting to persuade the UN and other aid organizations to dispatch approximately 900 aid trucks to distribution points. Yonah Jeremy Bob and Corinne Baum contributed to this report. HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) The Princeton Police Department welcomed a new K9 patrol dog, Kilo. Kilo is a 3-year-old Dutch Shepard from the Czech Republic and is trained in several areas of patrol. Officer Jones will begin certification training with Kilo within the coming weeks. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). A man accused of shooting a former prison officer in a "revenge" plot had allegedly issued death threats to other staff and inmates before, a jury has heard. Elias Morgan, 35, denies ambushing and murdering father-of-three Lenny Scott outside a gym in Skelmersdale, Lancashire, on 8 February 2024. Four years earlier Mr Scott, 33, had seized a phone from Mr Morgan's cell at HMP Altcourse in Liverpool, which exposed an affair he was having with another prison officer called Sarah Williams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A jury has now heard a summary of "prison records" which claimed Mr Morgan had threatened other prisoners and staff, including as "punishment for grassing", on various occasions going back to 2011 - claims he denies. Preston Crown Court heard those records suggested Mr Morgan had "threatened grave violence, including making death threats to coerce prisoners and prison staff" before his release in October 2022. The records stated the threats included Mr Morgan, from Edge Hill in Liverpool, claiming he was "in contact with people in the community who will carry them out on his behalf with a variety of weapons". Lenny Scott had left the prison service three years before he was murdered [Lancashire Police] The jury heard the threats related to drugs and to "punishment for grassing and other conduct he was unhappy with". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Morgan, giving evidence from the witness stand, told the jury he had never seen those records until "about 15 minutes" before the hearing started. Under questioning from his barrister, Caroline Goodwin KC, he was asked if he was involved with any threats or violence to other prisoners. He replied: "Not at all. I have been in jail a total of about 10 years, I have had three fights in that time." Ms Goodwin also asked Mr Morgan about an accusation made by his co-defendant, Anthony Cleary, also from Edge Hill, who is alleged to have helped him organise the shooting by driving a van to near the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week Tim Forte KC, representing Mr Cleary, told the jury his client claimed Mr Morgan called him after the shooting and told him he had "done someone". Mr Forte suggested his client had then been "bullied" into silence - which was denied by Mr Morgan. Addressing the claim, Ms Goodwin said: "It was put to you directly by those on behalf of Mr Cleary that in the after events after the shooting you effectively bullied Mr Cleary into keeping quiet. Do you accept that?" He replied: "No, not at all." The jury has heard Mr Morgan allegedly attempted to pay Mr Scott 1,500 not to submit the phone to his superiors when it was found in March 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors say he allegedly moved on to making threats when Mr Scott refused the cash - which included accurately describing the officer's home and his family. Under questioning from Ms Goodwin, Mr Morgan denied having any conversation with Mr Scott over money or making threats. 'Nothing special' He told the jury he had no involvement in Mr Scott's shooting and denied he had a motive to "seek revenge". Mr Morgan acknowledged that after his release in October 2022 he had been questioned over the discovery of the phone in his cell two years earlier, but said other prisoners involved had received only six-month sentences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also claimed he had been involved in several affairs with female prison officers in different jails during his time behind bars. He denied he would be motivated to retaliate against Mr Scott over Ms Williams, who was later jailed for misconduct in a public office. Mr Morgan told the jury: "It got suggested it was all about Sarah Williams. No disrespect to Sarah Williams - it was nothing special." The trial continues. Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on BBC Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer. More on this story A woman incarcerated at a Wisconsin prison has been handed a life sentence without the chance of parole for beating her cellmate to death two years ago. Taylor Sanchez, 29, pleaded no contest last month to killing her cellmate, 68-year-old Cindy Schulz-Juedes, at the Taycheedah Correctional Institution. Judge Tricia Walker called the attack wholly vicious as she sentenced Sanchez on Monday, according to Spectrum News. A no-contest plea indicated Sanchez would not fight the charges, but would not admit fault, either. The Independent has contacted Sanchezs public defender, Michael Queensland, for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prison staff found Schulz-Juedes dead in her cell, surrounded by a pool of blood, in July 2023. Sanchez, who was the only other person in the cell, informed police she was hearing voices that told her to kill Schulz-Juedes, according to court documents reviewed by Fox 6. Sanchez later called her mother, explaining that she thought Schulz-Juedes used her toothbrush to clean the toilet, according to a transcript of their conversation. Sanchez, 29, will spend the rest of her life in prison after beating her cellmate to death in 2023 (Wisconsin Department of Corrections) "I stopped taking my meds and I started hearing voices again, Sanchez told her mother. "I thought she was using my toothbrush to scrub the toiletI thought she was using my stuff to wipe the floor with and I thought she was messing with me, she continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schulz-Juedes suffered skull fractures too numerous to count, according to prosecutors. She also sustained 34 rib fractures, bruises and other injuries. Sanchez changed her plea on June 30 after originally pleading not guilty due to insanity, Fox 6 reports. She was originally serving a two-year sentence for battery in Kenosha County. "Every victim matters, regardless of their status or if they are serving a criminal sentence, Fond du Lac County District Attorney Eric Toney said in a statement. This defendant brutally murdered her cellmate and created dangerous risks for other inmates and correctional officers. We will continue to protect our correctional officers and all those within our community, regardless of where they reside, he continued. We hope this sentence sends a strong message to inmates that there are consequences for committing crimes in our prisons." Schulz-Juedes was serving a life sentence when she was beaten to death (Marathon County Sheriff's Office) Schulz-Juedes was convicted in 2021 of being party to first-degree intentional homicide and resisting or obstructing an officer, the Associated Press reports. These charges came in connection with the 2006 fatal shooting of her husband, Kenneth Juedes. She was sentenced to life in prison without the chance of parole in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors said Schulz-Juedes found her husband dead the morning after he was shot. She told police she was sleeping in a camper outside their home and went inside the house to check on him, thinking he overslept and was late for work. Prosecutors argued she was motivated by money, citing her husbands insurance policies that totaled more than $900,000. Jul. 29---- One of four criminal defendants arrested after police executed simultaneous search warrants in Willmar earlier this year will end up with a misdemeanor drug conviction if he successfully completes probation. Benjamin Joseph Wadsworth, 27, of Willmar, was given credit for five days served in jail and received a stayed imposition on a felony first-degree drug possession charge when he was sentenced in on July 16. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers confiscated more than 9 pounds of packaged marijuana plant material and more than 1 pound of marijuana plants from his home, according to the criminal complaint filed against him. Wadsworth will be placed on supervised probation for three years, according to the sentencing order. Judge Rodney Hanson also ordered Wadsworth to finish 24 hours of community work service and pay a $140 fine by Nov. 1, 2025. Successful completion of his probation will result in a misdemeanor conviction rather than a felony. Wadsworth is the first of the to be sentenced. He pleaded guilty on June 29. In exchange for his plea to first-degree drug possession, prosecutors agreed to dismiss a felony charge of illegal firearms possession. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The other three defendants Shylah Brynne Jacobsen, 24, Owen Daniel Schwanke, 21, and Dylan Dakota Quimby, 26 are still going through criminal proceedings. All three are from Willmar and currently free on conditional release. Jacobsen pleaded guilty July 15 to an amended third-degree drug possession charge. Schwanke, charged with illegal possession of ammunition/firearm due to a previous felony conviction, was last in court on July 22. The court calendar shows a jury trial beginning Tuesday and expected to continue Wednesday before Judge Melissa Listug. Quimby, facing 10 felony charges including first-degree drug sale and possession, is next scheduled in court for an omnibus hearing Aug. 29. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Jan. 23 of this year, Willmar police at two homes in close proximity to each other, in the 300 block of Augusta Avenue Southeast and the 900 block of Third Street Southeast, in relation to a reported in October of 2024. That shooting resulted in a 17-year-old male being airlifted for treatment of gunshot wounds. The teen was successfully treated and later released from a Twin Cities hospital approximately two days after the shooting. According to court documents, Talan Lehmann, 18, was one of the suspects identified by police in the shooting and was known to visit Wadsworth's residence, described as kitty-corner and next to the other residence searched. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents in both houses knew each other socially, according to court documents. Lehmann was not at either of the homes when police executed the search warrants, but two other juvenile males, who knew Lehmann, were also located at Wadsworth's home. Jacobsen, Schwanke, Quimby and Wadsworth were all arrested. Officers ended up confiscating more than 22 pounds of marijuana, more than a pound of hallucinogenic mushrooms, a 9mm pistol with a serial number rubbed off and thousands of dollars in cash and other items from the two homes, according to court documents. According to the criminal complaint filed against Wadsworth, he told detectives that he had a studio in his house where he would occasionally let other people stay and confirmed that Lehmann had recently been staying at his home. Inside Wadsworth's residence, police found court documents for Lehmann on the main floor of the home and a 9mm pistol was in the basement. Six 9mm casings were also recovered from the room Wadsworth had identified as Lehmann's. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement the day after the searches. He was initially as he was 17 at the time of his arrest and during the reported shooting in October of 2024. Lehmann has since turned 18 and on June 2 in Kandiyohi County District Court was He has been in custody of the Meeker County Jail since June 6, held on $750,000 bail or $150,000 with conditions. According to the criminal complaint filed against Lehmann, one of the four adults arrested on Jan. 23 told detectives that Lehmann once told them that he had a gun with a scratched off serial number he used to "shoot a kid in the neck." Lehmann also allegedly said that "another kid named Carsten" was with him during the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carsten Tallman, 19, of Willmar, was by Willmar police the night of the reported shooting, as they knew Tallman and the juvenile victim had been having ongoing issues with each other. Tallman was arrested later the same day after police located the suspect vehicle near his residence. Tallman is also charged with second-degree attempted murder while committing a felony and three other felony charges. He has been in custody of the Renville County Jail, held on $750,000 bail or $350,000 with conditions. When questioned by detectives, Lehmann stated that he was the only one who was involved in the shooting. When asked by detectives why the suspect vehicle was found outside Tallman's residence he stated he didn't know why it would be there. According to the complaint, Lehmann indicated that he felt bad for the 17-year-old victim that suffered the injuries he caused and then ended the interview. MEMPHIS, Tenn. An independent investigator has submitted a final report on the Holly Springs Utility District to the Mississippi Public Service Commission, Commissioner Chris Brown announced in a statement on Tuesday morning. This comes after the MS PSC hired Silverpoint Consulting to conduct a third-party investigation into HSUD due to several complaints from HSUD customers. Silverpoint was asked to evaluate system operations, maintenance practices, emergency preparedness, and metering and billing. MS Commissioners begin investigation into Holly Springs utility services Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Commissioner Brown says the report outlined significant concerns, including a death spiral in the utilitys metering infrastructure, brought on by chronic mismanagement, lack of maintenance, and poor planning. It further details an overstressed operations group, dangerous overgrowth around the distribution system, and long-neglected substations that continue to threaten system reliability, the statement said. HSUD and the City of Holly Springs have demonstrated an inability and unwillingness to adequately serve their customers by citing longstanding failures to act on practical, previously issued recommendations. TVA files lawsuit against Holly Springs for contract breach Commissioner Brown says the issue did not happen overnight and that its a result of decades of neglect and mismanagement. He added that the system is in a severe state of despair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TVA, along with federal, state, and local partners, must come together to confront this crisis and ensure reliable service for the people of the HSUD service area, Commissioner Brown said. Holly Springs residents without power after substation failure On August 5, during the next docket meeting, there will be an announcement on the next steps to take regarding the matter. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Guernsey's chief minister has written to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to condemn the "suffering and starvation unfolding in Gaza". In the letter, Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez references Starmer's intention to work with international partners to "stop the killing and get people the food they desperately need". She said Guernsey politicians had expressed support for a joint statement from the UK and international partners calling for the war in Gaza to end immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel, which controls the entry of all supplies into Gaza, has blamed Hamas for any cases of malnutrition. The letter comes after 12 of 38 Guernsey deputies wrote to the chief minister asking her to pressure the UK government for a ceasefire. Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez has expressed members' profound concern over the impact of the war in Gaza [BBC] De Sausmarez's letter said: "Members of the Government of Guernsey are profoundly concerned by the deaths and suffering of innocent civilians in Gaza, including through the destruction of critical infrastructure and restricted distribution of humanitarian aid. "Further, the members are deeply moved by the plight of people of all ages who are caught up in any conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The members hope that the global community soon finds and implements effective ways to protect civilians, alleviate human suffering and secure lasting peace." Israel, which controls border crossings into Gaza, was urged by Starmer let more aid into the Gaza Strip as humanitarian organisations increasingly warn of spreading starvation. Israel had said foreign nations would be able to send supplies into Gaza via air drops. However, aid agencies said air drops were a "grotesque distraction" that will not reverse the territory's deepening starvation crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel said "hundreds of trucks still await pick up" at crossings into Gaza as it insisted there are no restrictions on aid getting in. Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. More on this story Related internet links The Heritage Foundation, the conservative think tank behind Project 2025, published a report called Project Esther in October 2024, describing it as a "blueprint to counter antisemitism." The report makes recommendations to curb pro-Palestinian activism that The Heritage Foundation wants federal government officials to include in policymaking. The report has drawn criticism from multiple Jewish organizations, including the nonprofit Nexus Project that says it is leading a national response to Project Esther. In a report analyzing the Heritage Foundation initiative, the nonprofit said, though the project claims to be a strategy to combat antisemitism, it actually redefines it "in ways that blur the line between legitimate protest and hate speech, while simultaneously ignoring and obscuring right-wing antisemitism." It's unclear if, or to what extent, U.S. President Donald Trump's administration is considering Project Esther's proposals. We reached out to the White House to ask about the initiative and did not receive a response by the time of publication. Some of the administration's decisions have aligned with Project Esther, though it has not explicitly mentioned or referenced the initiative. Some staff members at The Heritage Foundation have ties to Trump, including one person who reportedly oversaw the creation of Project Esther. In July 2025, popular social media posts circulated with various allegations about Project Esther, including assertions that it calls for replacing the Constitution with biblical law, criminalizing abortion, requiring women to submit to male authority, requiring religious homeschooling, and placing bans on anything related to the LGBTQ+ community. Those claims are misleading or entirely false. We reached out to The Heritage Foundation, which declined to answer several of our questions, instead referring us to the report. The Heritage Foundation, the conservative think tank behind Project 2025, has returned to the public eye with another initiative: Project Esther. Described as a "national strategy to combat antisemitism," the initiative was released as a report in October 2024 (archived). Project Esther outlines various proposals to not only fight antisemitism but also limit pro-Palestinian activism, with the goal of state or federal governments considering the ideas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple Jewish organizations have criticized the plan, including a nonprofit group called the Nexus Project that says it is leading a national response to Project Esther. The Nexus Project said, in part, that the plan "frames pro-Palestinian advocacy and criticism of Israeli government policy as inherent antisemitic." It's unclear if, or to what extent, U.S. President Donald Trump's administration is considering Project Esther's proposals. Some of the administration's decisions have aligned with them, though the administration has not explicitly mentioned or referenced the initiative. Some staff members at The Heritage Foundation have ties to Trump, including one person who reportedly oversaw the creation of Project Esther. Posts about what Project Esther allegedly contains racked up more than 100,000 likes and tens of thousands of shares in July 2025. The posts made various claims about the report's recommendations, including assertions that it called for replacing the Constitution with biblical law, criminalizing abortion, requiring women to submit to male authority, requiring religious homeschooling, and placing bans on anything related to the LGBTQ+ community. What exactly does Project Esther recommend? Scores of Snopes readers searched our website and emailed us to ask whether the initiative was real and, if so, what it proposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for The Heritage Foundation directed Snopes to the report in response to several of our questions. The White House did not respond to our inquiry on the matter by the time of publication. Here's what we know about The Heritage Foundation's Project Esther: What is Project Esther's backstory? Project Esther is named after a biblical Jewish heroine who risked her life to save the Jewish people from a massacre in ancient Persia. The Heritage Foundation published the report (archived), titled "Project Esther: A National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism," on its website on Oct. 7, 2024, nearly a month before American voters elected Trump to a second presidential term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Project Esther's authors said in the report that antisemitism in the U.S. was "alive and spreading" following the militant group Hamas' attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023 violence that spurred an ongoing war in the Gaza Strip prompting the report on its first anniversary. What does the report call for? Project Esther calls for the creation of a so-called "National Task Force to Combat Antisemitism" and makes various proposals that lump together groups that oppose the Israeli military or support Palestine with supporters of Hamas, calling them "Hamas Support Organizations (HSOs)" that make up a so-called "Hamas Support Network (HSN)." "Driven by an ideology that is decidedly antisemitic, anti-Israel and anti-American, the network revolves around American Muslims for Palestine," the report reads, in part. Groups identified as HSOs include National Students for Justice in Palestine, Jewish Voice for Peace and Alliance for Global Justice, among others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report also says: The virulently anti-Israel, anti-Zionist, and anti-American groups comprising the so-called pro-Palestinian movement inside the United States are exclusively pro-Palestine and more so pro-Hamas. They are part of a highly organized, global Hamas Support Network (HSN) and therefore effectively a terrorist support network. Project Esther lists 19 goals. They include proposals to remove so-called "HSO propaganda" from school curricula, identify students and faculty who are in violation of federal visa requirements, gather evidence of "HSOs' criminal activity" and suppress protests: HSO propaganda purged from curricula. HSO-supporting faculty and/or staff removed or fired. HSO access to campuses lost and/or denied. Foreign members of HSOs/HSN access to campuses lost and/or denied. Money from foreign HSO supporters not accepted by schools. HSOs unable to raise revenue. HSOs unable to transfer money to Hamas. Congressional "Hamas Caucus" marginalized. Executive branch presented with undeniable evidence of HSOs' criminal activity. Social media no longer allow the spread of antisemitic content. HSOs' voice/access to propaganda dissemination mechanisms lost. HSOs cannot/unwilling to communicate with each other. HSOs unable to coordinate action. Permits for HSOs to protest or demonstrate are restricted and/or denied. People are unwilling to join demonstrations. Foreign HSO leadership no longer present in U.S. Preponderance of Jewish community perceives HSOs as a threat to their safety. Preponderance of broader American public perceives HSOs as a threat to their safety and a functioning society. Critical vulnerabilities targeted. The report also outlines 28 points that it calls "necessary conditions," or prerequisites for policymakers to supposedly achieve Project Esther's goals. They are: HSO propaganda discredited. HSO propaganda is not academically accreditable. Curricula must adhere to academic freedom and present multiple perspectives. HSO-supporting faculty and staff's credibility undermined. HSO-supporting faculty and staff lose their credentials. HSOs in violation of campus policies. HSOs lose affiliation with campuses. HSO members in violation of student visa requirements. HSO-supporting foreign faculty and staff in violation of visa requirements. Foreign HSO leaders and members voluntarily depart the U.S. Foreign HSO leaders and members deported from the U.S. HSOs not eligible for public funds. Institutions voluntarily refuse money from HSO supporters. Institutions cease providing money to HSOs. People and groups refuse to donate to HSOs. HSOs not permitted to make money. HSOs lose conduits for transferring money to Hamas. Progressive left support to "Hamas Caucus" is untenable. Evidence of HSOs' criminal activity gathered. Social media view HSOs' presence as a liability. Social media platforms unwilling to host or promote HSOs. Social media users do not want to be affiliated with HSOs. HSOs do not trust each other. Localities unwilling to grant permits for HSO demonstrations or protests. Potential demonstrators fear affiliation with HSOs. HSOs present a threat to American (Jewish and otherwise) livelihoods. HSOs present a threat to Americans' personal beliefs. Critical vulnerabilities identified. The Heritage Foundation said in the report that it intends to "organize and guide" willing partners "in a coordinated effort" to fight antisemitism in the U.S. The think tank added that it hopes to form a "public-private partnership" if a supportive administration is in the White House. Public-private partnerships typically refer to collaborations between government agencies and private-sector companies. What are Project Esther's ties to Trump? Since the beginning of Trump's second presidential term, some of his administration's policy decisions align with Project Esther's recommendations, though it's unclear if that was coincidental or intentional. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, the Trump administration sought to deport Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, who was released from federal immigration detention after 104 days in late June 2025. That action appears to align with Project Esther's "necessary condition" of deporting "foreign HSO leaders and members" from the U.S. Additionally, the State Department revoked around 300 visas by early April 2025, "many of them held by college students alleged to have participated in activities advocating or Palestine and its people on the nation's campuses," ABC News reported. Project Esther recommends the identification of "HSO" members or supporters in violation of visa requirements. Trump distanced himself from Heritage's well-known Project 2025 initiative prior to the presidential election, but many of his second-term policies have aligned with proposals within it. Snopes reached out to the White House to ask if any members of the Trump administration played a role in developing Project Esther and whether the administration was working with The Heritage Foundation to implement the initiative's goals via federal policy. We did not receive a response by the time of publication. Who are its authors? The report on the Heritage Foundation's website does not list authors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, a May 2025 New York Times report about Project Esther identified Victoria Coates, a former deputy national security adviser to Trump and staffer at The Heritage Foundation, as the person who oversaw the project. According to the Times' report, Coates named two people as co-authors of Project Esther: Robert Greenway, the director of a Heritage Foundation center devoted to national security, and Daniel Flesch, a senior policy analyst for the Middle East and North Africa at The Heritage Foundation. Snopes asked The Heritage Foundation who authored Project Esther, and a spokesperson for the think tank directed us to the report itself. Snopes followed up to say the authors' names were not visible in the report and is waiting for a response. What do critics say about Project Esther? The Nexus Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating antisemitism, says it is leading a national response to Project Esther. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a report analyzing the Heritage Foundation initiative, the nonprofit group said, though the project claims to be a strategy to combat antisemitism, it actually redefines it "in ways that blur the line between legitimate protest and hate speech, while simultaneously ignoring and obscuring right-wing antisemitism." The Nexus Project continued, in part: The plan frames pro-Palestinian advocacy and criticism of Israeli government policy as inherently antisemitic, designating them part of a so-called "Hamas Support Network." It has become a blueprint for aggressive government action against protesters, educators, and entire academic institutions. Many of its proposals are already being implemented, including visa revocations, campus funding cuts, and immigration enforcement against student activists. Project Esther also removes "critical distinctions between anti-Zionism and antisemitism, peaceful protest and terrorist activity, and criticism of Israel and support for Hamas," according the group. The Heritage Foundation also developed Project Esther with "minimal Jewish input" and its approach "lacks support among most American Jews," The Nexus Project alleged. Stefanie Fox, executive director of Jewish Voice for Peace, "strongly rejected" the "Hamas Support Organization" label that the group received, according to the New York Times' report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for JVP also issued a statement to Snopes via email criticizing Project Esther, saying in part that it "does not actually engage with dismantling true antisemitism" and instead "focuses only on attacking pro-Palestinian advocacy." The full statement is as follows: Project Esther does not actually engage with dismantling true antisemitism: the report contains no mention of the Tree of Life Shooting, the neo-Nazi march on Charlottesville, or other instances of vitriol against Jews for being Jewish. Instead, Project Esther focuses only on attacking pro-Palestinian advocacy. The Heritage Foundation's Project Esther is a radically authoritarian blueprint for the far-right to dismantle the Palestine solidarity movement under the false guise of "fighting antisemitism" and then use the same dangerous (and currently illegal) tactics on other progressive causes. In particular, the Heritage Foundation is falsely smearing civil society groups that support Palestinian human rights so it can weaponize anti-terror laws to crush these groups and the larger movement and then do so to any other cause the far-right doesn't like. Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) is the largest progressive Jewish anti-Zionist organization in the world. JVP organizes a movement of U.S. Jews into solidarity with the Palestinian freedom struggle, guided by a vision of justice, equality and dignity for all people and in accordance with international law. In our assessment, the form of Zionism that is present in Israel today is a Jewish supremacist ideology that is used to legalize apartheid and the dispossession of Palestinians from their land. Our anti-Zionist work is not only an act of solidarity with Palestinians, but also a commitment to creating the Jewish futures we all deserve, where Jewish people like all people everywhere live in safety and freedom wherever they make home. (Snopes reached out to several other groups identified as "HSOs" in the report and will update this story if we receive a response.) A spokesperson for The Heritage Foundation declined to comment on The Nexus Project's claims, referring us to the report. What about the claims in social media posts? Posts with various claims about Project Esther's recommendations circulated online in July 2025. For example, some social media users claimed the initiative calls for replacing the Constitution with biblical law, criminalizing abortion, requiring women to submit to male authority, requiring religious homeschooling and placing bans on anything related to the LGBTQ+ community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Based on our review of the report, these claims were misleading or entirely false. A spokesperson for The Heritage Foundation called them "ridiculous." As far as the claim about the Constitution, the report references the country's founding document near a mention of "relevant religious texts." However, it does not explicitly call for replacing the Constitution with biblical law. The relevant section reads (emphasis ours): As American citizens, our authorities derive from the Republic's founding documents: the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Beyond that are federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations. We have several laws at our disposal that may help to exploit HSN and HSO vulnerabilities, such as the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA); the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO); and counterterrorism, hate speech, and immigration laws. Each of our coalition partners has its own relevant charter delineating its purpose, intent, and constraints. Finally, given the nature or our charge, we may seek moral guidance from relevant religious texts. Additionally, Snopes did not find any phrasing about women supposedly submitting to male authority, nor did we find evidence of the report calling for criminal punishments against people who seek abortions, as the posts claimed. The report also doesn't explicitly touch on homeschooling. However, it criticizes the public school system for supposedly incorporating pro-Palestine ideas in curriculum, writing, "HSOs have infiltrated their ideology into the U.S. education system across all levels." The relevant section said, in part: The U.S. education system fosters antisemitism under the guise of "pro-Palestinian," anti-Israel, anti-Zionist narratives across universities, high schools, and elementary schools, often under the umbrella or within the rubric of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and similar Marxist ideology. The report references the LGBTQ+ community in a section that criticizes efforts by former President Joe Biden's administration to curb antisemitism, though it doesn't explicitly call for any "bans," as alleged in the social media posts. Here's what the report says: In May 2023, the BidenHarris Administration applauded itself for publishing the first-ever U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. Less than one year later, antisemitism runs rampant across the country's universities. This may be due to the completely feckless nature of the BidenHarris Administration and its policies; the National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism appears to have more to do with furthering the progressive left's obsession with LGBTQ+ and all other minorities than it has to do with anything substantive in countering antisemitism. If you see claims about Project Esther that you'd like Snopes to fact-check, please reach out to us here. Sources: "Project Esther: A National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism." The Heritage Foundation, 7 Oct. 2024, www.heritage.org/progressivism/report/project-esther-national-strategy-combat-antisemitism. Accessed 24 July 2025. Crawford, Sidnie White. "Esther: Bible | Jewish Women's Archive." Jwa.org, 23 June 2021, jwa.org/encyclopedia/article/esther-bible. Accessed 24 July 2025. "Project Esther: A Nexus Project Briefing." Nexus Project, 23 June 2025, nexusproject.us/nexus-resources/project-esther-a-nexus-project-briefing/#elementor-toc__heading-anchor-7. Accessed 24 July 2025. GOLDENBERG, TIA, and MELANIE LIDMAN. "Israel Marks One Year since Oct. 7 Hamas Attack." AP News, 7 Oct. 2024, apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-one-year-anniversary-cf123f95609051e8e8eaf6aebe661b6a. Accessed 24 July 2025. Baker, Katie J. M. "Inside the Heritage Foundation's Plan to Crush the U.S. Palestinian Movement." The New York Times, 18 May 2025, www.nytimes.com/2025/05/18/us/project-esther-heritage-foundation-palestine.html. Accessed 24 July 2025. https://apnews.com/author/sophie-bates, and https://apnews.com/author/philip-marcelo. "Columbia Protester Mahmoud Khalil Freed from Immigration Detention." AP News, 20 June 2025, apnews.com/article/mahmoud-khalil-release-columbia-protest-trump-immigration-69162d21ab22377b1c1c08cf2c83d6cd. Accessed 24 July 2025. Hutchinson, Bill. "What We Know about the Foreign College Students Targeted for Deportation." ABC News, 7 Apr. 2025, abcnews.go.com/Politics/foreign-college-students-targeted-deportation/story?id=120210587%C2%A0. Accessed 24 July 2025. Updates: July 30, 2025: This article was updated to include a statement from Jewish Voice for Peace. Jul. 28MITCHELL A teetotaling city official wants to pass an ordinance to allow the on-site consumption of alcohol in a neighborhood shopping district. The Mitchell Planning Commission, during its meeting on Monday, July 28, recommended approval for an ordinance to add on-sale alcohol as a conditional use in a neighborhood shopping district. If approved by the Mitchell City Council, the ordinance would allow for the consumption of alcohol on the premises where alcohol is sold within a neighborhood shopping district. Mitchell Mayor Jordan Hanson considers himself a teetotaler, which refers to the practice of complete abstinence from alcohol. He said he set aside his personal beliefs about drinking to help businesses and to make it easier for people to make an investment into the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm looking at the picture of what can be good for business and the economy in Mitchell," said Hanson, who does not believe that this ordinance would increase drinking. As the municipal code stands, off-sale of alcohol is a permitted use within a neighborhood shopping district. This means a person buying alcohol must leave the premises in order to consume the alcohol. With the correct licensing and permits under the proposed ordinance, a patron could purchase alcohol and consume it on the premises. "I'm looking at the picture of what can be good for business and the economy in Mitchell," said Hanson, who does not believe the ordinance would increase drinking. Hanson noted that there's checks and balances to keep people from getting intoxicated. And Hanson would know, since he served as a bartender in Mitchell for about five years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ordinance was fast tracked by Hanson, who told the Mitchell Republic that a business that would like to remain unnamed asked him what if it would be possible to have on-sale alcohol and that the business had troubles getting approvals 20 years ago. "I don't think we should make it any more difficult for a business to operate, and I think it's absolutely worth discussing, so we should move forward and at least talk about it," Hanson said. City Planner Mark Jenniges told the commission that a local business within a neighborhood shopping district requested the on-sale alcohol sales be conditional use because the owners did not believe every location in a neighborhood shopping district should have on-sale alcohol sales. "The intent was to make it conditional use, so it's not blanket approval for anywhere and everywhere," Jenniges told the Mitchell Republic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mitchell's neighborhood shopping district includes sections of Sanborn Boulevard, Rowley Street, Lawler Street, Maddie Street, East Havens and businesses such as Arnie's, Triple Play Pawn, and Paul Groeneweg's apartment on First Avenue. Most of the district is on Sanborn Boulevard and Lawler Street, according to Jenniges. "This is pushing, basically, for a restaurant to be able to serve alcohol in neighborhood shopping district," Planning Commission chair Kevin Genzlinger said. The proposed ordinance does not give blanket approval for alcohol consumption for every permitted business within a neighborhood shopping district. Any person or business seeking to apply for a conditional use permit must go before the Planning Commission for a hearing. There's a $150 fee per location for conditional use permits, and the conditional use permitting process requires that the city notify neighbors within 140 feet of the location, post a sign about the hearing, and publish it in the paper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neighbors would have the option to voice concerns at a Planning Commission meeting and before the Mitchell City Council sitting as the board of Adjustment, according to Jenniges. "Because its conditional use, there are still procedures to follow," Jenniges said. While the ordinance seeks to make one addition to chapter 10 of the city code, all of chapter 10 is in the process of being overhauled, but is a few months out from finishing, according to Jenniges. In January, a sub-committee of the Planning Commission was formed to update the city's residential and commercial zoning codes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposed ordinance, pending council consideration, amends municipal code 10-6A-3 to add to the list of conditional use permitted businesses. Examples of conditional use permits with this district include automotive repair, gas stations, car washes and storage facilities. Examples of permitted uses within this district include multi-family dwellings, coffeeshops, grocery stores, assembly halls, a bed and breakfast, retail services, religious institutions and childcare facilities, among others. The first reading of the alcohol on-sale conditional use ordinance will go before the Mitchell City Council at 6 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 4 at City Hall. "At the end of the day, we need to allow people to make decisions for themselves," Hanson said. (FOX40.COM) The Fairfield City Council has initiated a proposition that they said ensures long-term system reliability, according to city officials. Video Above: Almost 70% of California residents voted in favor of Prop 36 Proposition 218 proposes an 8% annual increase as the water rate adjustment, over the next five years, as a way to fund critical infrastructure improvements. If Prop 218 is approved, the average single-family home is expected to see its monthly bill increase by $5 to $7 each year beginning January 2026 through January 2030. Officials said the proposed adjustments will help with: Operating and maintaining Fairfields water system Funding critical infrastructure improvements Covering rising costs of water, energy, materials, and labor Meeting legal and regulatory obligations Maintaining system reliability and debt service requirements Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City officials said water customers received letters in the mail that detailed the proposed rate increase on July 11. Key Stockton roadway to be revamped As a public utility, Fairfield Municipal Utility (FMU) can only charge customers the actual cost of providing water services. The proposed rate changes are based on the 2025 Water Rate Study, prepared by an independent rate consultant, said the official press release. They also align with the Citys recently adopted Public Utility Master Plan (PUMP), which outlines systemwide investments needed to maintain and improve the Citys aging water infrastructure. Fairfield residents are encouraged to learn more about the proposed changes on the citys website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the City Council will consider feedback received during a public hearing on November 4, where they might vote to adopt the proposed rates. City officials said protests emailed, written or hand-delivered must be received by 5 p.m. on November 4. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. Photo by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy | Arizona Mirror Michigans human capital, its people, are the heart of its economy. They underwrite almost every aspect of life, from the ability to plan for retirement to visiting family over publicly funded roads. But since 1960, the people who fuel the states economic engine have been leaving in droves. In terms of population growth in the U.S., Michigan has consistently come in 49th over a 30-year period. Making matters worse, the state faces a severe demographic crisis with birth rates projected to decrease through at least 2050 a crisis now compounded by threats to the immigrant communities helping to fill the gap. Birth projections from Michigan Statewide Population Projections through 2050 screenshot Immigrants, documented or undocumented, are essential to Michigans future, already representing roughly 60% of the states population growth over the last decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the current administrations campaign of mass deportation represents a direct threat to Michigans immigrants, who are our neighbors, co-workers and business owners. The campaign not only threatens these people in our communities but is also a direct threat to Michigans fiscal sustainability, potentially removing a significant portion of the workforce and taxpayer base that the states economy depends on for continued growth and demographic stability. The immigrant community brings unique strengths that particularly benefit Michigans economic future and are vital to Michigans key economic sectors. In U.S. agriculture, Michigan is the sixth largest recipient of H-2A agricultural worker visas, with 19,000 migrant and seasonal farmworkers supporting Michigans place as the 16th largest agricultural-exporting state by value. In auto manufacturing, immigrants comprise 14% of the workforce, which the state has identified as a priority industry. The technology sector especially benefits from immigrant innovation, with 30% of Michigans software developers being foreign-born workers who nationally represent 16% of inventors but generate nearly one-quarter of Americas total innovative output when assessed by patent volume, citations received and market value. In health care, where immigrants represent 28% of Michigans physicians, they are filling essential roles in a sector under strain, with 32.7% of physicians nearing retirement and 65 of 83 counties designated as health professional shortage areas. Furthermore, immigrant tax contributions, which are long-term net positive regardless of legal status, are crucial for Michigan. Immigrants in the state are estimated to pay $5.5 billion and $2.6 billion in federal and state and local taxes, respectively. They are also 24% more likely to be of working age and therefore net fiscal contributors. Some 70,000 immigrant children currently comprise 15% of Michigans high school population, making them a significant portion of the future labor force and tax base. The state budget is sensitive to revenue changes that could create a mid-year deficit. Deporting immigrants threatens to destabilize the budget in the long run and further destabilize crucial programs like Medicare and Social Security, which undocumented immigrants pay into but cannot benefit from. But new laws and policies in 2025 aim to discourage immigration, encourage self-deportation and expel new Michiganders en masse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act imposes a new regime of immigration-related fines and fees while decreasing benefit access, rendering immigration unaffordable for many. Simultaneously, the law strips away crucial support systems by blocking lawfully present immigrants from Affordable Care Act premium tax credits and marketplace eligibility, cutting federal Medicaid funding for states and eliminating Child Tax Credit benefits for 22,300 Michigan children U.S. citizens whose parents pay taxes with Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) but lack Social Security numbers. These punitive measures transform the immigration system into a pay-to-play system that threatens to lock out would-be taxpaying community members from Michigans labor force. More fundamentally, the law launches an unprecedented campaign of mass deportation by quadrupling the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements (ICE) detention capacity and flooding communities with immigration agents empowered to raid schools, churches and hospitals once spaces of safety. The $13.5 billion allocated to expand 287(g) agreements that deputize local police to carry out immigration enforcement will further fracture the trust between immigrant families and the institutions meant to protect them. This creates a pervasive atmosphere of fear where parents avoid taking sick children to hospitals, students stop attending school and workers disappear from essential industries rather than risk detention and family separation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protecting and welcoming immigrants is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity. As the state grapples with chronic population decline, an aging workforce and tight budget margins, it cannot afford to squander the demographic dividend that immigration provides. Michigan can embrace the entrepreneurs, innovators and workers that underwrite its future or watch them flee. While other states compete aggressively for international talent and investment, Michigan risks ceding its economic recovery by allowing fear to eclipse opportunity and growth. Michigans success will ultimately be measured not by how many people it expels, but by how many it inspires to call the Great Lakes State home. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Protestors took to Congressman Tom Barretts Lansing office, opposing the federal budget bill, which protestors say he supported. The protest was part of a nationwide effort, hosted by Families First, and organizers say dozens of people came out to reject changes to Medicaid and food assistance programs. Kathy Larson, a protestor, was one of the dozens of other people rallying outside of Congressman Tom Barretts office, hoping to speak with him about the current cuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He doesnt do open town halls. He does, you know, phone calls, town halls. The first one, I couldnt even get on, said Larson. Protestors rally against budget bill cuts in front of Congressman Tom Barretts Lansing office./ WLNS Larson says she has a daughter in a semi-independent living home thats funded by Medicaid. We have a disabled daughter who is 46 years old, and we dont know how were going to care for her if she loses her funding, said Larson. Its a 24-hour job to take care of her, and at our age now. It would be really difficult for us to do it at home. 6 News reached out to the Congressmans office, and a spokesperson for the Congressmans office says: The One Big Beautiful Bill aims to strengthen Medicaid and food assistance for people with disabilities and others who need help, while implementing modest work requirements for able-bodied, childless adults. Polls consistently show that vast majorities of Americans support work requirements for able-bodied adults receiving public assistance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the protest, people brought jars of peanut butter and jelly to donate to local food banks in Lansing. Joanne Galloway, one of the volunteers, says they did this because theyre worried the budget will create more food insecurity. Galloway says shes frustrated that the Congressman wont hold in-person town halls. Regularly, weve been coming down just to draw some attention to the fact that we want to talk to him, said Galloway. The Congressmans spokesperson said: Congressman Barrett appreciates hearing from people in mid-Michigan on all sides of the issue, and although in-person town halls are security risks at a time of increased violence against elected officials, the congressman has spoken with thousands of constituents in interactive tele-town halls. And he and his staff happily engage with hundreds of constituents every week in person, over the phone, and by email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protestors say the wheelchair ramp at the congressmans office is not open. The Congressmans spokesperson says that due to the heightened threat environment, it is only open upon request. The back entrance to the office is wheelchair accessible, but due to the heightened threat environment, it is only open upon request. Staff remain prepared to help any individual with a disability access the building if they call in advance or upon their arrival. Additional signage will be posted soon to advise everyone of their options for contacting and accessing our office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. A German zoo has killed 12 healthy baboons due to a lack of space, prompting protests from animal rights activists. The Nuremberg Zoo in southern Germany said on Tuesday that it killed the monkeys due to overcrowding, which led to conflicts between the baboons and injuries. Director Dag Encke explained that it was not possible to give the animals away or reintroduce them to the wild, and that female contraception efforts did not work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The enclosure was designed for 25 adult baboons plus babies, but had more than 40 animals at the last count. The zoo announced its intention to kill some of the baboons in February 2024. Activists were able to climb into the zoo on Tuesday, with some of them gluing themselves to the ground in protest at the killings. They were detained by police. A coalition of animal rights organizations has announced it will launch legal proceedings against the zoo. "What we feared has materialized: Healthy animals had to die because a zoo bred irresponsibly for decades and failed to develop sustainable solutions," said campaign group Pro Wildlife. "This killing was avoidable and is unlawful in our view." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The German Animal Welfare Association said "the responsibility for animals that are kept and bred in zoos does not end where it becomes inconvenient in terms of space, finances or organization." The groups fear that the killing of the baboons could set a "dangerous example," said Laura Zodrow from Pro Wildlife. She is calling for politicians to tighten the legal framework for zoos and their breeding programmes. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) A Providence man accused of orchestrating an odometer rollback scheme will spend at least 15 months behind bars, according to Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha. Pablo Beato, 53, pleaded no contest last week to conspiracy to tamper with odometers, conspiracy to obtain money under false pretenses and conspiracy to commit forgery. Beato was sentenced Monday to 15 years with 15 months to serve at the ACI, followed by 15 years of probation. He was also ordered to pay $150,000 in restitution over the course of 15 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation began back in early 2020, when the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles received numerous complaints regarding forged certificates of title. RELATED: 3 charged in odometer rollback scheme connected to Providence business Detectives reviewed the titles in question and discovered that the security features on the documents were damaged in a way that was consistent with writing over the odometer mileage disclosures to reflect lower mileage than was actually reported, according to Neronha. Neronha said the detectives were able to trace the titles back to P.B. Auto Repair and Imports in Providence. Investigators paid the dealership a visit and advised the owner, later identified as Beato, by phone that he did not have the proper licensing to sell used cars in Rhode Island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next day, Neronha said the investigators drove by the dealership and noticed that it appeared closed, with all vehicles previously displayed at the property removed. Neronha said a couple of months later, detectives discovered Beato had moved his business to his home off of Kenwood Street in Providence. The investigation revealed that Beato used Facebook and Craigslist to post and sell used vehicles. Beato is accused of selling 42 vehicles with odometers that had been tampered with to reflect lower mileage counts between 2018 and 2021, according to Neronha. Bersania Bencosme and Eddy Bencosme Diaz have also been charged in connection with Beatos scheme. Court documents indicate that Bencosme and Bencosme Diaz are both out on bail awaiting trail. Their next court dates are slated for August. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Over 1,000 pounds of frozen ready-to-eat ground beef from Ada Valley Meat Company have been recalled due to potential metal contamination, with affected products packed between May 2830, 2025, and marked with lot codes 35156 or 35157. The recalled beef was distributed to establishments in California, Delaware, Illinois, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, and is more likely to be found in institutional settings than in consumer freezers. While no injuries have been reported, the Food Safety and Inspection Service urges institutions and customers to discard or return the product and to stay updated, as more items may be added to the recall list. Check your freezer because a recent recall affecting over 1,000 pounds of ground beef is going to make you think twice about dinner tonight. Ada Valley Meat Company, which is based in Michigan, has recalled its frozen ready-to-eat ground beef that was packed between May 28, 2025, and May 30, 2025. The recall pertains to 20-pound cardboard box cases of meat, which contain 5-pound plastic bags of ground beef with the lot codes 35156 or 35157. The meat also contains the establishment number EST. 10031. The recall was initiated after a customer reported finding pieces of metal in the meat. Yikes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although there have been no confirmed reports of injury from the affected products so far, the beef was shipped to establishments and distributors in California, Delaware, Illinois, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. As the recall states, "FSIS is concerned that some products may be in institutional freezers. Institutions who have purchased these products are urged not to serve these products," so it's more likely that the meat was distributed to restaurants or industrial kitchens rather than picked up in the grocery store by consumers, but it's still best to double check. FSIS encourages customers to "check back frequently as additional products could be added." If you do happen to have the ground beef in your possession, FSIS urges you to either throw it away or return it to your place of purchase. You Might Also Like The Roundhouse shrouded in darkness on a recent night. (Photo by Patrick Lohmann / Source NM) The outcome of a legislative ethics subcommittee hearing last week over allegations of harassment against a high-ranking senator remained secret Monday, and its anyones guess when that information will come to light. A Legislative Council Service employee accused New Mexico Senate President Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart (D-Albuquerque) of calling her stupid and shouting at her following a dispute during the legislative session earlier this year. But because of a carveout in New Mexicos transparency law, the accused, the alleged victim and the public are left in the dark about the committees findings after an hours-long hearing Friday, including any decision if Stewarts behavior amounted to harassment under the Legislatures anti-harassment policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amanda Lavin, legal director at the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government, told Source NM on Monday that the Interim Ethics Committees Hearing Subcommittee is not legally required to make its decision in public. An exemption in the New Mexico Open Meetings Act (OMA) applies, in part, to matters relating to personnel or matters adjudicatory in nature or to investigative or quasi-judicial proceedings relating to ethics. Lavin said while OMA requires committee work on public business to be conducted in the open, meetings about investigative proceedings related to ethics and conduct may be closed to the public. There is no requirement under OMA that a legislative committee make its final vote in public, unlike OMAs requirements for any other public body, Lavin said in a statement. The matter stems from a complaint filed by legislative staffer Michelle Jaschke over an alleged incident involving Stewart on Feb. 27, according to a summary of the investigation given during the hearing. Jaschke did not respond to an email Monday seeking comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former New Mexico Supreme Court Justice Richard Bosson, who chaired the subcommittee, said during the hearing Friday afternoon that the panel would issue a written, formal order in the near future, which will be public, in due course. The subcommittee went into closed session and deliberated for more than an hour-and-a-half. The purpose of Fridays hearing was to make a recommendation to the Senate Ethics Committee, Bosson said. Since the complaint involves a member of the Senate, the Hearing Subcommittees recommendation goes next to the appropriate standing committee, according to the Legislatures rules. In this case, that is the Senate Ethics Committee, Casebier said. According to the Senates own rules, the president pro tempore is supposed to chair the Senate Ethics Committee. But since Stewart is the subject of the complaint, the rules require Senate Majority Floor Leader Peter Wirth (D-Santa Fe) to appoint a substitute from Stewarts political party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interim Ethics Committee Co-Chair Sen. Liz Stefanics (D-Cerillos) said the Legislature is handling the matter now because it took time for employment and labor lawyer Lorna Wiggins, who served as special counsel for the Ethics Committees investigative subcommittee, to interview the people involved. Legislative Council Service Director Shawna Casebier told Source in an email that Wiggins investigative report is confidential and has not been released to the public. The decision of the hearing subcommittee will be made public once finalized, Casebier said. Stewart told Source in a text message Monday morning she had not received the subcommittees recommendation. Source on Monday filed a records request for the report. A records custodian wrote in an email that they would respond by Aug. 12. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX (PUEBLO, Colo.) The Pueblo Police Department (PPD) is investigating after a man was shot and killed on the south side of Pueblo on Monday morning, July 28. According to PPD, officers responded to a report of a possible shooting shortly after 9 a.m. in the 600 block of East Arroyo Avenue, east of the Northern Avenue exit of I-25. When officers arrived, they found an adult man in the street with an apparent gunshot wound. PPD said the man was taken to the hospital, where he died of his injuries. Detectives with the Pueblo Police Department Crimes Against Persons Unit and Crime Scene Investigations Division have responded to investigate, though PPD said it is investigating this as a homicidethe citys seventh of 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is an isolated incident, PPD said, and there does not appear to be any ongoing threat to the community. PPD is asking anyone with information on this incident to contact Detective Hector Herrera at (719) 553-3336 or Pueblo Crime Stoppers at (719) 542-STOP (7867). Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A man is facing felonious assault charges, accused of hitting another man so hard with one punch that he knocked him unconscious at the WRTA bus station in Youngstown. Semaj Barlow McElvaine, 19, with no address listed in the police report or court records, is charged with felonious assault, a second-degree felony. Police say Barlow McElvaine turned himself in Monday. According to a police report, officers were called to the bus station on July 12 on reports of an assault. When officers arrived, they found the victim in so much pain that he could not speak, with a swollen jaw and a knot on his head. He was taken by ambulance to the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A bus driver told officers that a man punched the victim and then ran away with another person. Police combed the area for a suspect but didnt find anyone. A security video showed the suspect and another man approach the victim, when the suspect threw a left-handed punch to the victims head, rendering him unconscious and falling to the concrete, the report stated. Barlow McElvaine turned himself in to the Mahoning County Sheriffs office on the felonious assault warrant out of Youngstown Municipal Court. A hearing is set for July 30. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. The Brief One Milwaukee alderman said road repair is an issue that might not be going away because the state is shorting the city the money to fix it. A recent study by the Department of Public Works found 25% of roadways in Milwaukee were in poor condition. The city plans to explore alternative local funding mechanisms to maintain the roads. MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee streets are aging faster than the city can afford to repair them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One Milwaukee alderman said it's an issue that might not be going away because the state is shorting the city the money to fix it. What we know The city says a recent study by the Department of Public Works found 25% of roadways in Milwaukee were in poor condition. Road or roller coaster, Kiara Lumpkins said that sometimes it's hard to tell the difference in Milwaukee. FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX LOCAL Mobile app for iOS or Android "I remember driving on 60th [...] used to turn and go up, like airborne. It was so bad," she said. "I wish I had my friend on the phone. She has potholes." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Potholes and aging roads are something Alderman Peter Burgelis said the city wants to fix. "Constituents say number one priority, top concern, is public safety," Burgelis said. "Number two a very close second is fixing the damn roads [] Drive down a street in Milwaukee and you can understand how frustrating it is when we are paying our fair share of taxes, but we are not getting our fair share of revenue back from the state." Burgelis is talking specifically about the amount of money allocated in the state budget to transportation and infrastructure in Milwaukee. "10% of sales tax comes from Milwaukee, but we are getting half of that back for general transportation aid and state aid to municipalities to improve their local roads," he said. Dig deeper Wisconsin Policy Forum President Jason Stein explained that the state transportation budget formula is like a pie. "Helping fund roads in the state including at the local level. That includes 3% year increases in general transportation aids that go out to all municipalities and counties in the state," he said. "The pie is getting bigger but those smaller communities are going to get a bigger chunk of it [...] A lot of the town roads in Wisconsin, those smaller communities - are also in really bad position. So theres genuinely competing needs here that I think the average person would be sympathetic to both of them." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News The city plans to explore alternative local funding mechanisms to maintain the roads. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Policy Forum said the state budget did give a significant financial boost for Milwaukee County. The Source The information in this post was collected and produced by FOX6 News. The former president and prime minister of Russia brushed off Senator Lindsey Grahams demand to get to the peace table and end the war with Ukraine, saying neither he nor President Donald Trump could stop Russia from its military objectives. Dmitry Medvedev, a high-ranking Russian official who currently serves as deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, snarkily responded to Graham on X on Monday after the South Carolina senator echoed Trumps request for Russia to negotiate to end the war. To those in Russia who believe that President Trump is not serious about ending the bloodbath between Russia and Ukraine: You and your customers will soon be sadly mistaken. You will also soon see that Joe Biden is no longer president, Graham told Medvedev. Get to the peace table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Medvedev waved off Grahams threat, insisting, Its not for you or Trump to dictate when to get at the peace table. Negotiations will end when all the objectives of our military operation have been achieved. Work on America first, gramps! Medvedev said. Dmitry Medvedev, a high-ranking Russian official, brushed off Senator Lindsey Graham after he echoed Trumps demands for Russia to go to the peace table (Getty Images) The exchange between Medvedev and Graham occurred on the same day that Trump warned Russian President Vladimir Putin that he had 10 to 12 days to make progress on a peace deal to stop the war with Ukraine, or Russia would face severe tariffs. Russia invaded Ukraine more than three years ago, and since then, the two countries have been battling. Ukraine has relied heavily on support from allies, including the U.S., to fight Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump had initially opposed providing Ukraine with financial, humanitarian, and military aid. He heavily campaigned on the idea that he could end the war between Russia and Ukraine swiftly. However, its proven difficult for the U.S. president. Earlier this month, Trump said he would give Putin 50 days to strike a deal. However, he shortened that timeframe on Monday while expressing some frustration with Putins lack of effort in striking a ceasefire. Medvedev warned Trump that giving Russia an ultimatum would lead to war between Russia and the US (SPUTNIK/AFP via Getty Images) Hours later, Medvedev took to X to warn Trump that playing the ultimatum game with Russia would lead to war between Russia and the United States. Thats when Graham stepped in to demand Russia begin peace negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Independent has asked Grahams office for comment. From Medvedevs response, it appeared Russia is in no hurry to stop the fighting in Ukraine. That was all but formally confirmed on Monday evening after Russia bombarded Ukraine with a series of missiles. At least 22 people were killed as part of the Russian strikes, which targeted a Ukrainian prison camp and a Ukrainian hospital. At least one of those people killed was a pregnant woman, the Washington Post reported. Should Russia fail to come to the peace table talks, Trump could impose hefty sanctions which would be on top of the sanctions the U.S. has already imposed on Russia. Graham, who has largely supported the U.S. sending aid to Ukraine, has co-sponsored bipartisan legislation that would impose a 500 percent tariff on imported goods from countries that purchase Russian oil, gas, uranium, and other products. Arab countries including Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Egypt joined calls Tuesday for Hamas to disarm and end its rule of Gaza, in a bid to end the devastating war in the Palestinian territory. Seventeen countries plus the European Union and Arab League threw their weight behind a seven-page text agreed at a United Nations conference on reviving the two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians. "In the context of ending the war in Gaza, Hamas must end its rule in Gaza and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority, with international engagement and support, in line with the objective of a sovereign and independent Palestinian State," said the declaration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It followed a call Monday by the Palestinian delegation at the United Nations for both Israel and Hamas to leave Gaza, allowing the Palestinian Authority to administer the coastal territory. The text also condemned the deadly October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas against Israel, something the UN General Assembly has yet to do. France, which co-chaired the conference with Saudi Arabia, called the declaration "both historic and unprecedented." "For the first time, Arab countries and those in the Middle East condemn Hamas, condemn October 7, call for the disarmament of Hamas, call for its exclusion from Palestinian governance, and clearly express their intention to normalize relations with Israel in the future," said French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The text, co-signed by France, Britain and Canada among other western nations, also called for the possible deployment of foreign forces to stabilize Gaza after the end of hostilities. Israel and its ally the United States did not take part in the meeting. - 21 months of war - The document was issued at the second day of the conference in New York at which Britain announced it may recognize a Palestinian state in September. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy said London would proceed with recognition if Israel did not fulfil conditions including implementing a ceasefire in Gaza and allowing in sufficient aid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement French President Emmanuel Macron last week said he would formally announce France's recognition of Palestinian statehood at the UN General Assembly in September. For decades, most of the global body's members have supported a two-state solution with Israel and a Palestinian state existing side-by-side. But after more than 21 months of war in Gaza, the ongoing expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, and Israeli officials declaring designs to annex occupied territory, it is feared a Palestinian state could become geographically impossible. The current war in Gaza started after the Hamas attacks on Israel, in which more than 1,200 people were killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel responded with large-scale military action that has claimed tens of thousands of Palestinian lives and destroyed most infrastructure in the enclave. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said at the meeting Monday "the two-state solution is farther than ever before." In a statement issued late Tuesday, 15 Western nations including France and Spain, affirmed their "unwavering support to the vision of the two-state solution." Among the signatories, nine that have not yet recognized a Palestinian state expressed "willingness or positive consideration of their countries" to do so: Andorra, Australia, Canada, Finland, Luxembourg, Malta, New Zealand, Portugal, and San Marino. abd-gw/des/mlm A quadruple stabbing in south London that left two dead was a targeted attack, it has been claimed. Emergency services were called to Long Lane, Southwark, at about 1pm on Monday after reports of multiple stabbings inside a business premises, where they found and treated four people. A 58-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene and three other men were taken to hospital, the Metropolitan Police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 27-year-old man later died in hospital, police said, while a third man, in his 30s, remains in a life-threatening condition. On Tuesday, police said a 31-year-old man, who is a British citizen and was initially detained in connection with the incident, was arrested on Monday. He remains in hospital and his condition is not life-threatening, they added. Forensic teams at the site of the stabbing, which took place inside a business premises - James Manning/PA The stabbing is understood to have taken place near consultancy firm Prospira Global and housing provider Trademark Homes. Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Bond, who leads policing for the area, said: Our thoughts are first and foremost with the family and friends of the victims of this tragic incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our investigation continues at pace and we are working hard to understand the full circumstances. I understand there may be concern in the local community and there will be an increased police presence in the area over the coming days. I would also encourage anyone who may be worried to speak to an officer. The police investigation continues at pace, according to the areas detective chief superintendent - James Manning/PA Neil Coyle, the Labour MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark, said earlier on Tuesday that the incident was a targeted attack. He told reporters outside the police cordon on Tuesday: This is truly awful. Its absolutely devastating for the family and the local community. Thankfully, police say this was an isolated incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres no excuse for what happened, but theres no further risk to the public. Police believe they have witnesses, but if anyone else saw anything, please contact the police and share any information you have. Lots of people will be shaken. As the local MP, I want to send my condolences to the family and everyone directly affected. But this is a safe community. This was a targeted, isolated incident... as you can see, police are investigating thoroughly. Paramedics also did everything they could yesterday to try to save lives. A police forensic tent is erected at the site of the quadruple stabbing in south London - James Manning/PA Mr Coyle also pleaded with witnesses to come forward. He added: My message to the community is this: if you saw anything, please come forward. And if you didnt, but youre worried, know that this remains a safe area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no ongoing threat to public safety. Im working closely with police and the local council. The investigation is ongoing, but when more information can be shared, it will be. My job is to make sure my constituents are kept informed and reassured that theres no wider risk. A resident, who asked not to be named, said: Its terrifying. I walk past there all the time it makes you feel really uneasy. You just dont expect something like this to happen on a normal weekday. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. CHARLOTTE (PINPOINT WEATHER) Brandon Lawson, meteorologist for Queen City News, has been named the Climate Coverage Champion for the Charlotte area by the local chapter of Citizens Climate Lobby (CCL). The award celebrates Lawsons work in helping the public understand climate change. Whether its through his on-air forecasts, social media updates, or segments on Pinpoint Weather University for Queen City News+, Lawson has brought climate science into the spotlight. This is the second year that CCL, a nonpartisan grassroots group focused on national climate policy, has given out the award. Their Meteorologist Outreach Action Team created the recognition to encourage more local meteorologists across the country to talk about climate change in ways that are clear, accurate, and community-focused. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to raising awareness, the Charlotte chapter of CCL regularly meets with Representatives Alma Adams, Moore, and Harris, as well as North Carolinas U.S. senators, urging support for meaningful climate solutions. It is an honor to receive this award from the Citizens Climate Lobby. The impacts of climate change are being experienced across our globe, particularly with an increase of more violent natural disasters. Our Earth is warming; science proves it. We cant undo the damage that has already been done, but we can slow down and try to prevent future warming of our planet by reducing carbon emissions. I am pleased with the growth of clean energy here in the Carolinas, especially with the different sources of electricity we have moved to. However, more work needs to be done, and it starts with getting the word out and educating the public. Meteorologist Brandon Lawson, Queen City News MORE FROM QCNEWS.COM Severe Weather Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. LOUISIANA (KLFY) When it comes to natural disasters, Louisiana is no stranger to them, especially the damage to homes and businesses, leaving families in need of recovery. But with the possibility of funding cuts to FEMA, Louisiana families could face financial risk. Currently, there is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the future of FEMA, with questions about whether it will be phased out, revamped or if funding may be cut. As FEMA is a part of the governments natural disaster response, the Federal Emergency Management Agency provides aid before, during and after disaster recovery. And with Louisiana having the second-highest home insurance cost in the nation, homeowners in the state face the reality of being uninsured or underinsured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Matt Brannon, a data journalist with Insurify, The average Louisiana homeowner pays almost $11,000 in home insurance costs each year. Thats about four times the national average. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest Reports from Insurify show home insurance rates in the state of Louisiana can increase anywhere from $3,000 to nearly $14,000. There is also a misconception that homeowners can rely solely on FEMA for recovery aid, when FEMA is a disaster relief fund intended to assist in covering the gap of what home insurance does not. And with the country experiencing budget cuts, there are questions about whether FEMA will be affected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brannon says there are resources available through the Louisiana Department of Insurance with programs like the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program, where grants of up to $10,000 for roof repair could be awarded. In November, were expecting to hear more about what a revamped FEMA could look like and whether it will still be around, said Brannon. But the bottom line for Louisiana homeowners is that it takes away a safety net that residents in the state have relied on in the past. To find solutions and navigate the agencys role, the FEMA Review Council recently met and decided that, as of now, there is no guarantee that FEMA will undergo cuts or changes. Latest news Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com. Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) Racketeering charges were used in a blight case for the first time in Louisiana. Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams said a grand jury indicted a New Orleans real estate developer, Edward Neal Morris III. Williams said the case involved multiple properties managed through companies controlled by Morris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Choir teacher accused of sex trafficking will be held without bond Through this filigree of companies and LLCs Morris, the defendant, allowed dozens of properties across New Orleans to deteriorate to the point of being legally declared public nuisances, Williams said. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. A radical Islamic cleric who has supported members of Hezbollah is running a summer camp that combines combat training with religious education in the Peak District this week. Sayed Hussein Makke, a London-born Shia preacher and influencer, has mourned members of the Lebanese terror group including a British friend who died fighting for Hezbollah and Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Earlier this year, his visa to visit Australia was revoked after Sky News reported that he had allegedly hailed Hassan Nasrallah, a Hezbollah leader killed in an Israeli air strike last year, as one of the worlds greatest freedom fighters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was claimed that Mr Makke, who attended Nesrallahs funeral, had celebrated the number of mourners as evidence that the resistance was alive and well, an investigation by The Jewish Chronicle found. Sayed Hussein Makke crouches next to the a shrine to a dead Hezbollah soldier, Mohamed Balbaaki The military wing of Hezbollah has been proscribed in the UK under counter-terror laws since 2008, and its political wing was banned in 2019. Lawyers for Mr Makke said he was not a member of, and had not provided support to, any proscribed organisation. The cleric is currently promoting a physical and Islamic training camp for young British men in the Peak District from July 30 to Aug 3. The camp, known as the Spiritual Warrior Project and held at Darwin Lake in Derbyshire, offers Olympic-level wrestling alongside religious education by a cleric. Young men running at a previous camp in the Peak District The course is described as focusing on God-centric masculinity and man psychology. Applicants are asked how much they value discipline and brotherhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Promotional material for the course says: Brotherhood is to trust your comrades to know that you and your mission go further together than you could ever do by yourself. Spiritual Warriors live, eat and breathe brotherhood. Speakers at the event include Sheikh Salman Zaarour, a Shia cleric who at a previous course is shown standing above a fire at nightfall guiding young men to reflect on our destinies. Sayed Hussein Makke runs other programmes that focus on masculinity as well as selling a product to boost libido An Instagram post shared by an account named Jafar Hammoud on Oct 7 last year, the first anniversary of the Hamas attacks on Israel, features Mr Zaarour with fellow students at a seminary in Lebanon. The post is captioned war nights and states that victory is near. In a separate programme called the One-on-One King Programme, Mr Makke offers private mentoring to men and is said to explore the masculine archetypes king, warrior, magician, lover, in a programme tailored to overcome personal weakness and maximise potential. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Makke also sells oil-based products, including a pill to boost libido, for customers embarking on the spiritual warrior path. In a response shared by a legal group on his behalf, Mr Makke claimed media reports about Spiritual Warrior Project were an attempt to stir up hatred against our camp attendees. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Update, July 29, 2025: The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole has selected the dates and times for Menzies commutation hearing. They say a detailed agenda will be available closer to the hearing dates. Thursday, Aug. 7 from 1:00 pm 5:00 pm Wednesday, Aug. 13 from 8:00 am 5:00 pm Thursday, Aug. 14 from 1:00 pm 5:00 pm Friday, Aug. 15 from 8:00 am 5:00 pm Original Story: SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole (BOP) is granting Ralph Menzies a commutation hearing following a petition filed by his attorneys earlier this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Menzies was convicted in 1988 for the 1986 aggravated murder, kidnapping, and robbery of Maurine Hunsaker. He was placed on death row, where he has remained for the last 37 years as appeals have been filed. Today, the BOP announced that they will be granting Menzies a commutation hearing. The hearing has not been scheduled, but a date should be selected within the next few days. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Board of Pardons replaces board member for review of Ralph Menzies commutation petition In the petition for commutation filed by Menzies attorneys, several key arguments were outlined, mainly revolving around Menzies declining health, the presiding judge and former chief justice involved not standing by the death penalty, Menzies behavior while incarcerated, and questions regarding the basis of his death sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The BOP will be reviewing previously gathered information from the competency review and ruling. They will call witnesses and provide an opportunity for victim representatives to speak during the hearing. They will not be ordering a new review of Menzies competency, however. The Board also notes that, even if it found Mr. Menzies incompetent the remedy would be to appoint counsel or a lay representative to assist Mr. Menzies with the hearing. Since Mr. Menzies is already represented by counsel, there is no additional remedy available for Mr. Menzies. Accordingly, the Board denies the request to initiate a competency inquiry, the order granting the commutation hearing reads. The BOP argues that the trial court found Menzies competent to be executed previously, and that the only remedy that could be offered by a new review of his competency would be assigning him the assistance of counsel or a representative, which Menzies already has. PREVIOUSLY: Attorneys for Ralph Menzies seek clemency, ask death penalty to be commuted to life sentence Who is Ralph Menzies? On February 23, 1986, Maurine Hunsaker was abducted from the Gas-A-Mat convenience store and gas station in Kearns, Utah, where she was employed. Her husband called the convenience store and went in person when she did not pick up. When he arrived, he found that Hunsaker was missing, along with her purse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to documents, Hunsaker called the home phone and told her husband that she had been instructed to tell him she was kidnapped and robbed. A police officer spoke with Hunsaker, and she indicated that the kidnapper intended to release her. Days later, on February 25, 1986, a hiker found Hunsaker deceased near a picnic area in Big Cottonwood Canyon. She had been strangled to death, according to the medical examiner, and her throat was cut. Marks on her wrists and scuffing on a nearby tree indicated that she had been tied to it somehow. During this time, Menzies was booked into jail on an unrelated burglary charge. When officers were taking his possessions, Menzies ran away and hid in a changing room. Later, identification cards were located in the changing rooms hamper, and an officer realized that they belonged to Hunsaker. Witnesses further connected Menzies to the disappearance and murder of Maurine Hunsaker, and some had even seen him with her on the night of her murder. In 1988, a jury found Menzies guilty, and he was placed on death row for the serious and senseless crime. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy condemned a Cincinnati street brawl that garnered attention on social media over the weekend and used the altercation to bash public safety policies on the left in a Monday post on social platform X. In his post, Ramaswamy said he had spoken to one of the women assaulted in the fight, whose first name he said was Holly. Its unconscionable that there were no police present in that area of Cincinnati on a Friday night, or even an ambulance to take her to the hospital, he wrote. Hard-working Americans shouldnt have to worry for their safety when they have a good time in our cities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The brawl, video of which quickly spread online, was also condemned by several high-profile politicians Monday, including Vice President Vance, Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) and Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval. It occurred early Saturday morning in downtown Cincinnati. Pureval said in a statement he was confident arrests from the incident would be forthcoming. Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge said the department has since identified and charged five people in connection with the brawl. On X, Ramaswamy pledged that law enforcement would have the green light to restore orderno apologies. Leftists like to lecture about systemic injustice while thugs turn our cities into war zones. Im done with their excuses, he wrote. As governor, Ill make sure theyre behind bars, not running wild. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holly appreciates the kind words and prayers from patriots across the country, and hopes that the publicity around her story ensures that local & state leaders clean up our failing cities, he added. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. According to a report released in July 2025, 61% of 3,187 beaches tested nationwide in 2024 experienced at least one day of unsafe fecal contamination levels. Of the 23 beaches on South Carolina's cast tested in 2024, 74% of them had potentially unsafe levels of fecal bacteria on at least one testing day. (Stock photo by iiievgeniy/Getty Images Plus) Per Julia Shumways recent article, it is great to see bipartisan support to begin addressing the problem of microplastics in our waterways. Heres another pollution problem plaguing South Carolina beaches that deserves more attention from our congressional leaders: fecal contamination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fecal bacteria in coastal waters is more common than most people think. According to a new report by our research partners at Environment America Research & Policy Center, 74% of South Carolina beaches tested last year had potentially unsafe bacteria levels on at least one day including Folly Beach and beaches on Hilton Head Island, Sullivans Island, and Kiawah Island. Sections of Myrtle Beach exceeded a safety threshold for nasty bacteria multiple times. The beach safety threshold used in the report is a level of fecal indicator bacteria associated with 32 illnesses per 1,000 swimmers, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Pathogens continue to be a problem at our beaches this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services issued a swimming advisory for a section of the beach on Edisto Island due to unsafe levels of fecal bacteria. In May, the agency issued similar advisories for sections of Pawleys Island and Debordieu Beach. Scientists estimate 57 million instances of people getting sick each year in the United States from swimming in polluted waters. Those illnesses can include nausea, diarrhea, ear infections and rashes. The majority of these illnesses go unreported, so most people are unaware of how big of a problem this is. Common sources of this fecal bacteria are deteriorated sewage systems and stormwater runoff. Leaky or overflowing pipes allow raw sewage to enter local waterways where people like to swim and fish. For example, earlier this year in Florence, South Carolina, more than 5,000 gallons of untreated sewage flowed into Jeffries Creek, prompting officials to issue swimming and fishing advisories. Similarly, in the town of Chapin this past May, two overflows in the span of five days let a combined 120,000 gallons of sewage leak out into an inlet of Lake Murray. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to local environmental group Congaree Riverkeeper, the City of Columbia had 85 sewer spills that amounted to more than 1 million gallons last year alone. When sewage overflows into creeks, rivers, and streams, it can end up getting washed into coastal waters, putting beachgoers at risk. With the increased frequency of extreme weather events, bacteria pollution could get a whole lot worse. Heavy precipitation could place an extra strain on outdated wastewater systems, causing further overflows and malfunctions. Fortunately, we know how to solve these problems. Repairing and upgrading wastewater systems can dramatically reduce contamination in the places where we love to go swimming. The federal Clean Water State Revolving Fund was created to help local governments like Florence, Chapin, and Columbia make these projects a reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, the Clean Water State Revolving Fund is not currently getting the funding it needs. The EPA estimates that the U.S. needs at least $630 billion over the next 20 years in order to upgrade wastewater systems and keep our waterways safe. But current funding for the revolving fund covers less than 20% of this annualized need. And that may be about to get worse. Last week, the House Appropriations Committee in Congress approved providing $1.21 billion for the revolving fund in fiscal year 2026. The spending proposal represents a $430 million cut compared to this years allocation of $1.64 billion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Carolinians should not have to risk coming into contact with raw sewage when they go swimming, fishing, or boating at their favorite lake or beach. Our communities need the resources to fix their wastewater systems and make our beaches safer. Jul. 29Dear Answer Man: Friends and I have called our congressional representatives often with questions and concerns these recent months. I'm not sure if you've answered this before, but do aides actually listen to the messages and create a summary for Rep. Finstad? Interested Citizen. Dear Citizen, I hope you and all your friends aren't hoping for long chats with our congressman. Just from a logistics point of view, I'm guessing there aren't enough hours in the day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not that Rep. Brad Finstad, MN-1, or any member of Congress senators included shouldn't respond to their constituents. You might think, me being the all-knowing Answer Man, that I have everyone from Gov. Tim Walz to Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, or even Finstad on speed dial. Sadly, that's not the case. Which is a shame, because I know how to fix almost everything except that dripping faucet Mrs. Answer Man complains about. That said, answers, as I mentioned, should be given when our elected officials are asked questions. I reached out to his office. Here's what they told me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When constituents share what's on their mind whether it's by calling, emailing or walking in the Congressman responds," read the statement from his office. "Congressman Finstad is aware of all constituent contact with his office, and regularly keeps them informed of his votes, policy positions, and meetings both in D.C. and in the First District." This jibes with what we've learned previously when there were nonstop calls for the congressman to host a town hall in Rochester. Finstad and his office have told the Post Bulletin that all calls are logged and topics are cataloged. While he might not respond individually, he does answer questions through a variety of channels. His office recommends subscribing to the newsletter it hits my inbox every Friday at finstad.house.gov/newsletter-subscribe and following @RepFinstad on Facebook , X and Instagram . Another wise choice one you seem to have made is to subscribe to the Post Bulletin. Within the last few months, we've sat down with Finstad to talk about everything from tariffs to the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last thing Answer Man would do is tell you to go without having your thirst for knowledge quenched. That said, the ultimate answer to your query is, yes, when you call, the congressman is listening, even if it's just an aggregate report compiled by his staff. Send questions to Answer Man at answerman@postbulletin.com . This story was produced by the Berks County bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom. Sign up for Good Day, Berks, a daily dose of essential local stories at spotlightpa.org/newsletters/gooddayberks. READING Six years had passed since the City of Reading inspected a three-floor apartment building on the corner of Green and North 8th. Code inspectors were scheduled to visit this August until its south wall collapsed in July. By its own ordinance code, the city is supposed to inspect multifamily and rental properties every two to five years. It has not been able to meet the goal because of funding and staffing shortages, new Community Development Director David Barr told the City Council July 14. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The building at 501 North 8th Street received 26 deficiencies in its 2019 inspection, Barr said. In general, deficiencies are problems in or around the home that range in severity, from overgrown weeds and loose trash to problems with the foundation. The problems were resolved by February 2020, and none involved the south wall. The issues must have arisen unnoticed in the years since, he said. Reading officials have routinely cautioned residents about the citys aging housing stock and need for maintenance, and at least three row homes have partially collapsed this year. Not all problems can be easily spotted or handled by homeowners alone, but there can be warning signs, a civil engineer with Temple University told Spotlight PA. Mehdi Khanzadeh Moradllo showed Spotlight PA cracks under the south wall windows and distress around the chimney in a Google Maps photo taken before the collapse. Its possible moisture slipped through the cracks and contributed to the structural damage, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The building is owned by local company Windsor Way Holdings. Co-owner Alex Betances did not respond to Spotlight PAs request for comment. Spotlight PA consulted with Khanzadeh Moradllo, city employees, and code inspectors about steps Reading residents can take if they feel the conditions of their or neighboring homes are becoming unsafe. Heres what they said: Cracks seen before Reading building collapse by Spotlight PA on Scribd What are some visual signs of home distress? Cracks along inside and outside walls can be the easiest things to spot, Khanzadeh Moradllo said. Other signs include: Flaked or peeling concrete, called spalding or delamination. A chimney pulling away from the home, called disjointment. Efflorescence, a white or off-white powdery substance that develops on surfaces like brick. Moisture in the building. Rust or corrosion. Timber decay from moisture or insects, like termites, which is normally most easily seen in basements. Bulging or bowing walls or ceilings. Roof leaks. Crumbling, missing, or cracked mortar. If I see a crack on the outside of my apartment, is it in danger of collapsing? Not always. The size and depth of the cracks can indicate how significant a problem is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not going to be over the next day, this is going to collapse, Khanzadeh Moradllo said. But those are initial, visual kinds of indications that you need to pay attention. Can I fix a crack in my apartment myself? Do I need a professional? A hair crack in the plaster is not cause for panic. Landlords are not required to make aesthetic changes under state law. Residents may be able to make cosmetic changes themselves if allowed in their lease. Larger issues, such as a heavy roof leak or leaning chimney, should be handled by a professional, especially if the dwelling is a rental. There may be deeper problems within the walls that residents cannot see. When do I need to tell my landlord about cracks in my apartment? Renters should inform their landlords of any damages immediately, especially cracks or moisture damage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They should also ask about previous damages or repairs before signing a lease. My immediate neighbors homes have cracks. Should I be worried? Neighboring buildings can have significant impacts on each other, especially rowhomes. Residents can report any concerns to the citys code enforcement department, which sends inspectors to the property and notifies the owner of any potential problems. Theres not enough clearance between this building, because, again, theyve been built a hundred years ago, right? Khanzadeh Moradllo said. And they were not thinking about certain code requirements we have right now. My landlord refuses to fix safety issues. What can I do? The Housing Equality Center of Pennsylvania offers a renters guide in English and Spanish that features sample letters tenants can send to inform a landlord of issues in their building. The manual lists a number of options if the landlord does not respond, including resources for low-cost legal advice, steps outlining how to withhold partial rent, and information on terminating a lease because the residence is inhabitable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Landlords are not required by Pennsylvania law to make cosmetic repairs. However, they have to address safety conditions if any problems make the unit legally inhabitable, including a leaky roof, unsafe floor, and structural issues. The center advises tenants to keep written and photographic documentation of all communication and issues with the home. Landlords must be given a reasonable amount of time to fix the problem, according to Pennsylvania legal precedent, but reasonable varies and depends on the severity of the issue. Tenants must be able to prove that the landlord was unwilling or unable to fix the problem. Tenants should seek legal advice when breaking a lease or withholding rent because a landlord can take them to court for missed payments. According to Readings ordinance code, landlords cannot evict a tenant in retaliation for reporting a code violation. How do I report possible safety issues to the City of Reading? Residents can report concerns to the citys Citizens Service Center at 877-727-3234 or on the Reading 311 mobile application, which is free to use. What can the City of Reading do? The city will conduct an inspection after a complaint is filed. If the inspection finds an issue such as a safety problem, graffiti, nonoperational locks, or other violations outlined in the citys ordinance code the landlord may receive a warning or notice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The landlord will be given a time frame to fix the issues, and risks fines and liens against the property if the deadline isnt met. If the city corrects any of the propertys issues, it charges the landlord, not the tenant. BEFORE YOU GO If you learned something from this article, pay it forward and contribute to Spotlight PA at spotlightpa.org/donate. Spotlight PA is funded by foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. For decades, the idea of a vaccine that could prevent breast cancer has felt more like science fiction than science. But recently, headlines touting breakthroughs and game-changers have sparked a new wave of hope and some skepticism. Could we really be on the cusp of immunizing against one of the most common and deadly cancers affecting women worldwide? Behind the buzz are early-stage clinical trials, promising preliminary results and a growing understanding of how the immune system can be trained to recognize and attack cancer cells. As researchers push forward, the science behind these potential vaccinesand what they might mean for the future of cancer preventionis becoming increasingly compelling. More from Flow Space How a Breast Cancer Vaccine Could Work and What Makes It Different A breast cancer vaccine is a type of immunotherapy designed to prevent, treat or reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence by training the bodys immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are two main types under development. Preventive (Prophylactic) Vaccines: These are meant to stop cancer before it startssimilar to how traditional vaccines prevent infectious diseases like measles or HPV. For breast cancer, preventive vaccines are still experimental and are generally being tested on people who are considered high risk (like those with BRCA mutations or a strong family history). Therapeutic Vaccines: These are designed for people who already have breast cancer or have completed treatment but are at risk of recurrence. The goal is to boost the immune response against cancer-specific markers (like HER2 or mammaglobin-A), so the body can find and destroy any remaining cancer cells. Unlike traditional vaccines for infectious diseases (such as flu or COVID-19), which prevent infections caused by external pathogens, breast cancer vaccines target abnormal cellular changes to either prevent cancer or treat it by reducing recurrence, Dr. Marie Ward, regional director of breast surgery at NYC Health + Hospitalss Jacobi Medical Center, tells Flow Space. By exposing the immune system to these antigens, the vaccine helps it learn what cancer cells look like, so it can mount a stronger, more targeted attack. Where Does the Research Stand? While no breast cancer vaccine is currently approved for widespread use, several promising vaccine candidates are in clinical trials, targeting different approaches to breast cancer, including primary prevention and recurrence prevention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of mid-2025, Ward says there are at least 15 breast cancer vaccine clinical trials in various stages in the U.S., some in phase II and III. She says some notable examples include: NeuVax (targets Her2): advanced trials mRNA vaccines (e.g., MUC1-based) show promising early results in disease-free survival (DFS) and reduction of recurrence Alpha-lactalbumin vaccines for triple-negative breast cancer One of the most closely watched efforts is being led by the Cleveland Clinic, which launched its phase I trial of a preventive breast cancer vaccine in 2021. This vaccine targets -lactalbumina protein normally produced only during lactation but abnormally expressed in many triple-negative breast cancersa particularly aggressive and hard-to-treat subtype, Dr. Brooke Davis, breast medical oncologist at Oncology Specialists of Charlotte in North Carolina, tells Flow Space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trial is testing the vaccine in women who are currently cancer-free but considered high-risk due to genetic mutations (like BRCA1/2) or family history. The current focus is on evaluating safety, immune response and tolerability. If early results are promising, the study will expand to larger groups and later-phase trials to assess long-term protection Meanwhile, therapeutic vaccines are also advancing. These vaccines dont aim to prevent the disease from occurring, but rather to help the immune system better identify and destroy cancer cells, especially those that may linger after treatment and cause recurrence. For instance, researchers are developing HER2-targeted vaccines, which are designed to activate immune cells against breast cancers that overexpress the HER2 protein. These are currently being studied in combination with other treatments, such as checkpoint inhibitors, in hopes of amplifying their effectiveness, adds Davis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, mRNA vaccine technology is being adapted for breast cancer applications. Companies like BioNTech and Moderna, which were instrumental in developing COVID-19 vaccines, are now exploring whether personalized mRNA vaccines can teach the immune system to target tumor-specific neoantigensessentially custom-building a vaccine unique to each patients cancer. Early results across multiple trials have shown that these vaccines are capable of producing measurable immune responses and appear to be safe, with relatively mild side effects. However, most studies are still in phase I or phase II, meaning its too soon to know whether they will lead to significant reductions in cancer risk or recurrence. That said, both interest and investment in this space are growing rapidly. The National Cancer Institute and the Department of Defense are funding numerous breast cancer vaccine studies, reflecting growing institutional confidence in the field. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epidemiologist Dr. Scarlett Lin Gomez, co-leader of the Cancer Control Program at University of Central South Florida who specializes in studying breast cancer rates among Asian-American women is currently conducting the CRANE study. Its goal is to understand the risk factors underlying the high and increasing rates of breast cancer in Asian American females. But in a more general sense, raising awareness among the medical community about the severity of breast cancer and its rising cases within minority groups only sheds light on how much a vaccine would be a game changer, she notes. However, researchers caution that a universal breast cancer vaccineone that could be given to the general population, much like the HPV vaccineis likely still many years away, if it proves possible at all. The ideal future model combines both: a standard vaccine base with individualized components tailored to a patients unique tumor biology, explains Ward. Whats Next? Every breast cancer vaccine trial underway today is doing more than just testing a single intervention; its helping to define the future of cancer prevention and treatment. While were still years away from routine, widespread vaccination against breast cancer, researchers are gathering critical insights that are shaping the next generation of cancer vaccines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ward says one of the major milestones the field is working toward is the successful demonstration of reduced recurrence or prevention rates in large, randomized phase III trials, which could lead to regulatory approval, particularly for high-risk populations. But reaching that point, she emphasizes, requires a more sophisticated approach than a vaccine alone. One of our key learnings is that vaccines are far more effective when combined with other forms of immunotherapy, such as checkpoint inhibitors, Ward explains. Cancer is expert at evading immune recognition. You need to unmask itand that often takes multiple tools working in tandem. Another essential insight has come from understanding which antigens best trigger a protective immune response. Were learning to distinguish between shared antigens, which are common across many tumors, and personalized neoantigens, which are unique to each patients cancer, says Ward. Both have potential, but personalizing the immune response could offer stronger, longer-lasting protection. Technological innovation is playing a major role in shaping these next-generation vaccines, as well, adds Davis. She says that with mRNA platforms and machine learning, scientists are able to design and adapt vaccines more rapidly than ever before, and these tools allow us to evolve the vaccine alongside the tumor, which is critical because cancer isnt static, it changes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, researchers are gaining a better understanding of why some vaccines underperform. One of the most promising avenues for current vaccines is minimal residual disease settingsafter the primary tumor has been removed or treated, but before the cancer has a chance to come back. In these scenarios, the tumor burden is low, and the immune system has a better shot at clearing out any remaining cells. Ultimately, experts agree that breast cancer vaccines will more than likely be part of a larger therapeutic strategy rather than a standalone solution. Were likely to see vaccines used alongside existing therapieschemotherapy, targeted drugs and immunotherapyfor a synergistic benefit, Ward says. Its about boosting the immune system in a smarter, more targeted way. But the lessons were learning now are invaluable. Theyre helping us build smarter, safer and more effective vaccines and bringing us closer to a future where cancer prevention is proactive, not reactive. SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) Rebekah Beltran, Director of Operations for the San Angelo WHIT Program, has won a Congressional Award that will be presented in September. Beltran has been recommended and chosen as a 2025 Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute Angels in Adoption Honoree from Texas with Representative August Pfluger. Rebekah Beltran with 2025 WHIT Volunteer Tutor of the Year- Clara Rodriguez Rebekah Beltran According to their website, Angels in Adoption is a leadership program that honors a wide spectrum of individuals, families, and organizations making extraordinary contributions to adoption, foster care, permanency, and child welfare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WHIT stands for weekly hands-on independent tutoring, and what we have the privilege of doing is we are able to provide free tutoring to children in foster care by using volunteers, Beltran said. She has been a part of WHIT since 2022. With the award, Beltran will travel to the nations capital and participate in legislative seminars, meet members of Congress, explore Capitol Hill and receive her pin and certificate in September. According to Beltran, children in foster care are usually extremely behind their peers in school due to simply being in foster care. She continues that their founder, Jennifer Lisson, saw this problem when working in foster care and created the program to fill that gap. WHIT tutors students in Kindergarten through 12th grade in math and reading. Their goal is to bring children in foster care up to grade level. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its honestly really neat to see that theres organizations out there that want to highlight not only just the world of foster care, but the people who have a passion for helping kids in foster care, Beltran said. The WHIT Program at San Angelo Gives 2025 Beltran says that if someone is thinking about how they can help with children in foster care, to should go online and research or become a volunteer for the WHIT program. They dont have to be a university student. They can just be a caring citizen that wants to help a child, Beltran said. Theres just many ways that they can get involved, not just with our program, but other local nonprofit programs. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com. Pine trees in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, Empire, Colorado, on June 19, 2020. (Lance Cheung/USDA/Public domain) As nearly everyone who hunts, hikes, camps, climbs, paddles or otherwise recreates on public lands knows well, during the first half of 2025 we fended off repeated attempts to put public lands on the chopping block, selling them off to the highest bidder. In the words of American Hunters & Anglers co chair Land Tawney, You spoke up. You showed up. You stopped this disaster for now. Round One goes to the people. A mandate to sell millions of acres of federal land did not make it into President Donald Trumps mega tax bill signed during July after a wide range of opponents, including environmentalists, ranchers, hunters, anglers, right-wing influences and business leaders rallied against the proposal from Sen. Mike Lee, a Utah Republican. Members and supporters of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, for example, sent 33,000 communications to U.S. senators on June 25 dubbed Flood the Lines Day urging them to reject the measure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite our collective efforts, Congress still passed a bill that ransacks public lands. We knew whatever passed was likely going to be bad for public lands habitat and, hence, hunters and anglers, but to use a hunting term, the reconciliation bill passed by Congress gutted public lands habitat protections in favor of resource extraction. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX In a November 2024 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers blog post, the groups president and CEO, Patrick Berry, explains that throughout our history land barons and developers have endeavored to swipe public lands right out from underneath us. Now these long-time swindlers have a growing roster of accomplices in the form of politicians who have zero shame cutting Americans out of our own public lands legacy, he wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By February 2025 we had a sense of what was coming after former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum was confirmed as secretary of the Interior and made it clear that he was hellbent on implementing an energy dominance agenda. Burgum went on to issue a slate of new secretarial orders directing Interior agencies to prioritize drilling and mining on our public lands. Conservation of fish and wildlife habitat and opportunities for hunters and anglers must be included as equal values, Berry emphasized in February. When the United States is currently producing more energy than any nation in history, these aggressive and uncompromising policies to expedite development on public lands only benefit one stakeholder group private industry. Hunter Randy Newberg (host of Fresh Tracks, On Your Own Adventures, and Hunt Talk Radio) said on his July 18 Fresh Tracks episode, The considerations previously given to wildlife and important habitat like wintering range, migration corridors, summer range in a lot of places those protections just went Were gonna see it, were talking about it from a hunting standpoint, Newberg added. We are going to see consequences to wildlife and wildlife herds because of these provisions. I dont know how else to say it its like lets turn this into an industrial landscape wherever we can it really opens the gates Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reconciliation bill was essentially a public lands giveaway in disguise. The Trump administration has now implemented the statutory framework for their energy dominance agenda by directing that logging and mining along with oil, gas and coal extraction trump all other uses on our multiple-use public lands. Although the deed to our public lands may not have been handed over directly to private industry, the reconciliation bill ditched decades of balanced multiple-use public lands policy in favor of one group billionaire buzzards. For a summary of the reconciliation bills public lands provisions, see this July 11 post by Jim Pattiz on his More Than Just Parks substack. In Pattizs words, Every single piece of this would be bad on its own. Together, its the most aggressive dismantling of public lands protection in American history. Its a sucker punch to all Americans, but as military strategist Sun Tzu said, In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Americas first conservationists, hunters have a century-old tradition of protecting public lands habitat and fighting those driven by myopic greed. The billionaire buzzards have overreached badly and underestimate our resolve. We will not give up or give in. Join us! SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) Residents in the Southeast U.S. are no strangers to heat in the summertime. But this week's sweltering hot weather set at least one record and has forecasters urging residents to limit time outside on Tuesday if possible and stay hydrated. The all-time high temperature at Tampa International Airport was broken on Sunday when the thermometer hit 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius). The previous record had been 99 F (37.2 C) in June 2020. The National Weather Service said Tuesday the prolonged heat is expected to peak in the Southeast at midweek. A strong upper ridge also was generating a dangerous and prolonged heat wave in the central and eastern sections of the country. An extreme heat warning was in effect through Wednesday night in New Jersey counties outside New York City, and the mercury hit an unseemly 97 F (36 C) in Manhattan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No relief in the shade In Savannah, Georgia, landscaper Darius Cowherd took a break Tuesday in the cab of his work truck after spending the morning mowing grass, trimming bushes and blowing leaves in Forsyth Park in the coastal citys downtown historic district. Sipping from a giant water bottle almost the size of a gallon jug, he said, I filled it with ice at 7 this morning and its all melted by 10:30. A canopy of live oak trees in much of the park provided little relief. Its hot even when youre working in the shade, said Cowherd, who wore a wide-brimmed hat to shield his face and neck. The National Weather Service predicted temperatures in Savannah would reach 97 F (36 C) Tuesday, with heat index values what the temperature feels like approaching a broiling 110 F (43 C). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Breaking records The heat wave was expected to set records across Florida on Tuesday, with highs around 100 F. Heat index values in the Tampa Bay area were expected to range from 113 to 118 F (45 to 47.7 C). We have extreme heat warnings in Georgia, down through northern Florida that would also include places like the Tampa Bay and Orlando metro areas, said Peter Mullinax, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service. We're going to see today more opportunities for temperatures to be near 100 again. However, rain is in the forecast for Wednesday, which will likely cool things off a bit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Extreme heat warnings also were issued in the country's center from New Orleans up to St. Louis, the meteorologist said. The heat index value on Tuesday was expected to reach as high as 110 F around the St. Louis area and in southwest Illinois. Too much heat In downtown Savannah, scattered tourists trudged along the sidewalks despite the heat. A few carried umbrellas to keep the sun at bay. A block away, Luis Hernandez was working in direct sun on a ladder painting second-floor windows on a 19th century home. He wore long sleeves to protect against sunburn. Hernandez said a co-worker made sure he and his fellow house painters had a cooler filled with drinking water. About every two hours, they would go inside to take breaks in the air-conditioning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sure, its hot, Hernandez said almost too much. With temperatures climbing Tuesday afternoon in Tallahassee, Willie Gaines and his workers took a break from painting white traffic lines on a newly paved road near the All Saints neighborhood. As they sat in the shade of tree, heat radiated off the blacktop. The air was thick with the fumes of fresh asphalt. Everybodys complaining they aint never seen it this hot, Gaines said. ___ Associated Press journalists Kate Payne in Tallahassee, Florida, and Mike Hempen in College Park, Maryland, contributed to this report. ___ Follow Mike Schneider on the social platform Bluesky: @mikeysid.bsky.social. ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) As the election day countdown continues, the Lieutenant Governors race between conservative radio host John Reid and state Senator Ghazala Hashmi is starting to heat up. Reid classifies himself as a lifelong Virginian, and after years of traveling across the commonwealth working as a broadcaster and a businessman, he has his eyes set on the Lieutenant Governors position. He said he wants to continue what the previous Republican leadership has done in maintaining common-sense legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think Virginians want somebody whos rigid and difficult in this office; I think they want somebody whos open-minded and thoughtful and experienced, Reid said. Youre not going to get a snap, emotional reaction from me; youre going to get analysis and thoughtful decision making. Reid said he strives to find common ground with people who disagree on a lot of topics. He said he is most passionate about preserving Virginians right to work, which Reid believes is key to maintaining future economic success. Right now, we are the northernmost state that allows workers to choose for themselves whether they join a union or not, Reid said. If the Democrats, mark my words, within a year, Virginia workers wont have that choice anymore, and you will be forced into a union, youll be forced to pay union dues, and why that matters is that we wont be able to recruit businesses anymore. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hashmi was born in India and moved to Richmond from South Georgia 34 years ago. She has served as a Virginia Senator since 2019 and is the first Muslim and South Asian American with that title. She said that experience will help her as Lieutenant Governor, and she believes she fits the role as an effective leader for Virginians. Ive had six years of experience in working on critical legislation that impacts Virginians, from education, K-12 through higher ed, healthcare issues, focusing on housing concerns all across the commonwealth, and environmental legislation as well, Hashmi said. Ive got a clear track record on the work that Ive been doing. Hashmi came from an educational background, spending three decades in the classroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said its important to preserve Virginias status as one of the best states to receive public education. Part of the dysfunctionality of the Trump administration is the dismantling of the US Department of Education, Hashmi said. In Virginia, we have strong public education, and we are determined to protect our school systems. It is unclear whether the two candidates will schedule a debate. Reid has reached out several times, and Hashmi says she and her team would consider any formal invitation to one. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv. MARSHALLTOWN, Iowa New renderings released by the Marshalltown Community School District show what the 100-year-old Miller Middle School will look like after its $106 million makeover. Probably 20 percent or so of the building will be brand new and the other 75 to 80 percent will look like new, said Dr. Theron Schutte, the superintendent of Marshalltown schools. The newly released renderings show that the school will modernize the auditorium and create larger classrooms for the 800 students who currently use the school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another family says their dream home turned into disaster with Davis Custom Homes A second gymnasium will be created, and a new common area will also cover the front of the building. While changes are being planned, Schutte said the districts goal is to still honor the buildings history, as it served as a high school, a community college, and a junior high school before becoming a middle school. The words high school are still engraved on the exterior of the building, even though the building hasnt been a high school in decades. Things like this sign and other historic architecture will be preserved inside the new model of the school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We definitely want to preserve as much of the history. A lot of it will be more visible internally than externally as it is now, but that has been a priority, to respect the past history of this 100-year-old building, said Schutte. Schutte said the renovations will help sustain the building for the next century. This comes as a result of huge community support for the project. Last fall, the district was urging community members to vote in favor of a $57 million bond referendum that would help renovate the historic school. The district posted a video tour of the school online, showing the buildings small hallways, historic architecture, ceiling leaks, broken auditorium chairs, tight classrooms, and much more. In November, voters agreed to the bond referendum with 68 percent of the vote. The bond referendum and state funding helped bring the budget for the project to $106 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Work begins on final phase of Fleur Drive reconstruction project Along with reimagining Miller Middle School, this budget will also be used to renovate Franklin Field and add audio/visual elements to all six elementary schools in Marshalltown. Renovations to Franklin Field began in early May. Schutte said progress is being made despite all the rain Central Iowa received this summer. Most people are generally elated about the fact that were bringing that facility back into relevancy here for the next 50 to 100 years as well, he said. Construction at Miller Middle School will be completed in phases so that it doesnt disrupt the school year. The district is hoping to start in April or May of 2026, and it will likely take three years until the last phase of construction is complete. Iowa news Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. (Photo: Getty Images) The City of Reno plans to review its ordinances in hopes of recommending changes to expedite the permitting of child care facilities. Reno City Council last week gave city staff the green light to review its existing child care ordinances and offer amendments, which will have to go through a public feedback process before being considered by the citys zoning commission and then city council. There is no set timeline for when any future ordinance might be considered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The review was requested by Councilmember Kathleen Taylor, who said a constituent came to her and said the city needs more child care. Taylor said her initial reaction was we dont really do child care at the City of Reno, but after speaking to the city manager she recognized there are some things that can be done within the confines of what the city does. Grace Mackedon, a senior management analyst with the city, told council members that her staff does not have specific changes in mind but will review best practices in other cities and collect feedback to see what barriers can be reduced for existing or prospective child care providers. Were going to look at: Can we streamline that (permitting) process? Mackedon said. Is there anything else we can do to make it easier? In-home providers and businesses that offer on-site child care for their employees pay the city around $4,300 when applying for a minor use permit, and there is no guarantee of approval. The citys review process takes about 30 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Standalone child care facilities pay around $5,000 for a conditional use permit when in residential zones, and the review processing time is 65 days. Thats a risk for the child care providers because theyre investing that time, investing that money, not knowing if theyll get approval, said Mackedon. Can we put standards in code so they know that, if we follow these standards, we know well get approval? Seven organizations, including The Childrens Cabinet, United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra, and Childrens Advocacy Alliance, expressed support for Reno revisiting the local zoning ordinances. Child care is an everybody problem, Tara Raines, deputy director of Childrens Advocacy Alliance, told the Nevada Current. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Child advocates often focus on federal and state policies that they believe will have the greatest impact on families, like the federal child tax credit, which was temporarily expanded under the Biden administration but whose accessibility will constrict under the Trump administration. But efforts at every level of government are helpful, say advocates. The 2025 legislative session saw some efforts to expand the availability of child care, but most proposals failed. One bill that would have prevented home owners associations from prohibiting licensed home-based child care providers was vetoed by Gov. Joe Lombardo. A proposal to adopt universal pre-K was proposed by Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro but was scaled back to become dependent on available funding after the states economic outlook deteriorated. Raines notes that cities are heavily involved in recruiting businesses and often offer incentives in the name of spurring development. They could incentivize companies that offer workplace-based child care options. Were seeing more people make the business case for child care, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 2023 business survey conducted by the Nevada Governors Office of Workforce Innovation found that half of businesses said employees and potential hires have expressed child care as a barrier to work. Nearly all 94.5% of respondents believed greater access to child care could improve their business by improving workforce retention. Raines recalled seeing a recent social media post from a Las Vegas parent saying they had no child care for an elementary-aged child. The parent wanted to know what people thought the best option was: quitting, getting fired, or leaving a 7-year-old home alone for a full shift. The child was enrolled in a summer program but the parent wrote they didnt have enough money to pay for the upcoming week. Having to make these sorts of mental calculations in your head isnt an anomaly for families across the state. It happens all the time, said Raines. If you want to be able to check out your groceries at the store, have someone make sure your utilities are working, get your oil changed, get your food served child care is a community issue. CLEVELAND (WJW) A legendary architect and centenarian celebrated another big birthday. On Monday, Robert Madison turned 102 and was greeted with a surprise party and champagne toast in Shaker Heights. Im just shocked, Im so surprised, Im so happy too, said Madison. Madison is not only defying age barriers but shattered many other racial divisions over the last century. Watch: Moment of silence for slain officer Phillip Wagner at Guardians game Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was the first African American to graduate from Case Western Reserve School of Architecture and received his masters degree from Harvard. He was an officer in the U.S. Army during World War II where he was decorated for his service and received a Purple Heart. Then in 1954, he established the Robert P. Madison International Architectural Firm in Cleveland. He overcame many racial barriers and went on to build multiple landmarks, schools, embassys and museums, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Its just a joy having him with us and hes meant so much to us and everybody he knows, said nephew Kevin Madison, who is also an architect at the firm. Especially all of the architects hes brought to the area, hes really strong about bringing opportunity to everyone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the party, family, friends and fraternity brothers from Alpha Phi Alpha all sang to Robert and he smiled back, repeatedly thanking them. His talent clearly only matched by his humility and sense of humor. When asked what his secret to longevity was, he responded, Whats my secret? Which one? and then laughed. Along with an impressive career, Robert has built an incredible life and family. Ohio Task Force 1 returns home after aiding in historic Texas flooding search Although, he famously dated Coretta Scott who would go on to marry Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. But Robert also married the love of his life, Leatrice Branch Madison, for more than 60 years and had two daughters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the party, daughter Juliette Madison commented on what makes her father so special. I dont think its the buildings or architecture or all of the trailblazing, but its his humanity and his love of people and people see that, she said. An iconic legend who is in a league of his own. I didnt expect all of this. Im grateful, very grateful. Im surprised and Im happy. Im really happy, he said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. Editors Note: News 2 received a statement on Monday night from Nashville International Airport officials clarifying the reasoning Rep. Justin Jones was asked to leave the event. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) Rep. Justin Jones (D-Nashville) was asked to leave an event after he arrived without confirmed credentials, according to BNA officials. News 2 captured footage of Jones speaking with a staff member at BNA Monday afternoon and the staff member told Jones he needed a wristband to get into the event. The event in question was the announcement of the installation of the Music City Loop an underground tunnel from BNA to Downtown Nashville to be constructed by Elon Musks The Boring Company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for BNA originally told News 2 just before 6 p.m. Monday that Jones had been asked to leave by Lees office. Another BNA spokesperson issued a statement to News 2 on Monday night at 9:05, clarifying what happened at the event. Id like to take a moment to clarify a message that was previously shared regarding Representative Justin Jones and the press announcement. As a major transportation hub and community partner, we are committed to fostering strong relationships with all members of our community. Admission to tonights event was granted to invited guests and credentialed media who had RSVPd in advance. Due to the nature of the event and associated security protocols, confirmed credentials were required for entry. To clarify, Representative Justin Jones was not removed at the direction of Governor Bill Lee. We respectfully ask that any inaccuracies or misinformation be corrected to reflect this clarification. Thank you for your understanding. Stacey Nickens, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Marketing, BNA RELATED | Elon Musk to install Music City Loop tunnel from BNA to downtown Nashville Jones took to Facebook on Monday, saying Gov. Lee and corporate lobbyists kept him from attending the event. Today corporate lobbyists and Governor Bill Lee kept me out of an event announcing a public-private partnership with Elon Musks Boring Company, which will be built through my district. Despite being hosted by the state, and other white Republican lawmakers being allowed in, I was denied entry and told I was not on a private list for an event involving state authorities hosted in my district. Its an egregious and troubling abuse of power, and an erosion of public accountability. Rather than allow questions or concerns, Governor Bill Lee and the corporate lobbyists running our state government chose to have a private party and exclude those elected by the people to serve and uphold the public good. This project, which requires state approval, is yet another attempt by Bill Lee and his corporate donors to enrich themselves while neglecting public services and real infrastructure needs of working class people who commute to downtown for work at bars, hotels, and restaurants. Musks Boring Company has been known to violate workplace safety laws and damage water quality, which is why other cities have refused or rejected his Tesla Tunnels, and why they are afraid of being questioned. The everyday Tennesseans who call House District 52 home deserve to have their questions answered since they will bear the true costs of this vanity project. Shame on Governor Bill Lee, shame on the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce, and shame on the corporate lobbyists selling our state to the greediest oligarch in America. Jones, via Facebook Earlier this month, Jones was also asked to leave BNA ahead of a visit from U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. PREVIOUS | Rep. Justin Jones asked to leave Nashville airport I just want to know from the Secretary where are all the people of my district? Jones told News 2 before being asked to leave BNA on July 17. I represent the 52nd House district, which this airport sits in. Its the most diverse district in the state of Tennessee. Many of my constituents were impacted by the ICE raids. I simply just want to hear the Secretarys support of veterans and also want to give questions as to what happened with my constituents who were taken by ICE at the beginning of May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jones said that for Noems event, he had been given prior permission to attend the event by both BNA and police, but Noems staff told him to leave. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Democratic senators named 300 rural hospitals in the United States including five in western Pennsylvania they say could be at risk for closing or reducing health care access with the passage of the reconciliation bill that will cut up to $1 trillion in Medicaid over the next several years. The letter from the Democratic leadership, dated June 12, was sent to President Donald J. Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune. It cited data from the Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research at the University of North Carolina on the amount of Medicaid payments to hospitals and hospitals financial track record over the most recent three years. The bill was signed July 4, but the letter was disclosed by the Sheps Center in recent days. The letter was signed by U.S. Sen. Edward J. Markey, D-Massachusetts; U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Oregon; U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Oregon; and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Enacting these drastic health care cuts that will kick millions of people off their health insurance coverage, rural hospitals will not get paid for the services they are required by law to provide to patients, the letter said. In turn, rural hospitals will face deeper financial strain that could lead to negative health outcomes for the communities they serve. The five Pennsylvania hospitals cited in the research were all in western Pennsylvania: UPMC Jameson in New Castle, UPMC Northwest in Seneca, UPMC Kane in Kane, UPMC Horizon in Greenville and Penn Highlands Hospital in Connellsville. Click here to read more from our partners at the Pittsburgh Business Times. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW News covering the future and funding of homeschooling and private schools snags many of todays headlines but the vast majority of Utah kids are attending public schools, be they traditional or charter schools. Almost 670,000 K-12 children are attending public schools in the Beehive State and a sizable chunk of local tax dollars directly support public education. Meanwhile, operations of the American public school system are in flux following recent disruptions in the federally operated Education Department. Utah educators are divided on how big a role the feds should play in local school operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So its fair to ask: Just how does Utahs public school system compare to other states? According to a recent WalletHub analysis, Utah is ranked just outside the top 10 at No. 11. The personal finance company compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 32 key metrics examining classroom performance, funding, safety, class size and instructor credentials. Massachusetts topped WalletHubs States with the Best School Systems, followed, in the top 5, by Connecticut, New Jersey, Virginia and New Hampshire. The bottom five? Oregon, Arizona, Alaska, Oklahoma and New Mexico. While Utah was ranked No. 11 overall, it was listed as No. 12 in Quality Rank and No. 16 in Safety Rank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other local highlights from the WalletHub analysis: Utah claimed a No. 2 ranking in the Math Test Score category one step below No. 1 Massachusetts. Utah tied with Nebraska for the fifth spot on the Median SAT Score rankings, although relatively few Utah kids take the SAT standardized test for college admissions. The ACT is far more popular, locally. Utah is No. 48 in the Pupil-Teacher Ratio finishing near the bottom and just ahead of Nevada, California and Arizona. The entrance to a first grade classroom is pictured at Hawthorne Elementary School in Salt Lake City on Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News Utah was also classified as a Low Spending and Strong School System state. The Beehive State is ranked No. 50 in spending, according to the WalletHub report. While sufficient funding is essential for a productive school system, simply having more money doesnt guarantee success, according to WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How funds are applied also plays a big role in how good a school system is, as does the quality of educators, other professionals and the curriculum, said Lupo in the news release. In addition, schools need to focus not just on test scores but also on making sure that students feel safe, comfortable and cared for. Earlier this year, results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress 2024 scores aka The Nations Report Card were released, revealing mostly steady performance for Utah fourth and eighth grade students who participated in the test. In fact, only three states or jurisdictions outperformed Beehive State students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Utah students were holding steady in math, there was a decline in eighth grade reading scores. More children are falling below the proficient level, underscoring the critical need to double down on effective reading interventions and support for our students, said then-State Superintendent of Public Instruction Sydnee Dickson following the release of the most recent Nations Report Card. Books on a bookshelf at Crescent Elementary School in Sandy on Monday, Jan. 13, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News Report methodology: Measuring quality and safety To determine the best and worst states for public school education, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across two key dimensions, Quality and Safety. Those dimensions included 32 weighted metrics which were averaged to calculate a states overall score and ranking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reports Quality metrics included high school graduation rate increases, dropout rates, math and reading test scores, median scores on national standardized tests, pupil-teacher ratio and the share of licensed/certified public K-12 teachers. Safety metrics included the share of threatened/injured high school students, share of high school students not attending school due to safety concerns, share of armed high school students, the number of school shootings, bullying incidence rates and the safety of roads around school areas. So why is Massachusetts No. 1? The Bay State boasts some of the best test scores in the country ranking first in the nation in all core academic subjects this year: fourth and eighth grade math and reading scores, according to WalletHub. Students at the high school level also do well, as Massachusetts has the highest share of students in the country who received a score of 3 or better on an AP exam, the report noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schools in Massachusetts are also generally safe. Massachusetts has the fifth-lowest share of students who report being threatened or injured with a weapon on school property, the third-lowest share who have been in a physical fight at school and the fourth-lowest share who report illegal drugs being available to them on school property, according to WalletHub. SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WGN) With the stroke of Governor JB Pritzkers pen, two new gun safety measures became law Monday in Illinois. The Safe Gun Storage Act requires gun owners to securely store their firearms when a minor or at-risk person is present. Im tired of forcing our children to duck and cover because too many politicians are ducking and covering for the gun industrys money, Prtizker said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chicagos budget deficit threatened by pension bill that awaits Pritzkers signature Pritzker signs new gun measures into Illinois law on Monday, July 28, 2025. (Photo: WGN) Every year, hundreds of children accidentally shoot themselves or others. In 75 percent of school shootings and 82 percent of adolescent suicides, the gun involved belongs to a family member. The new law also changes reporting requirements for lost or stolen guns. Instead of the current 72-hour timeframe, a gun owner has 48 hours to report their weapon missing. The clock starts ticking when they detect that the gun has been stolen or lost, added Illinois State Rep. Laura Ellman (D-Naperville). Before the Democratic supermajority in Springfield passed the bill, Republicans warned that the requirements could be unconstitutional in court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pritzker may consider political counter if Texas changes congressional boundaries The second new law requires firearm tracing in all cases when a gun is recovered at the scene of a crime. Currently, tracing is limited to specific scenarios. Its a crucial step to close investigative roadblocks and combat violent crime in our communities, Pritzker said. Over the last six years, Pritzker has signed into law various gun safety measures. (Photo: WGN) Illinois Attorney General Kwane Raoul also weighed in on the matter. Were not only capturing the bad actor who pulls the trigger, but were capturing those who traffic the guns into the hands of people who will do harm to our children and others with them, Raoul said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the last six years, Pritzker has signed into law various gun safety measures, including prohibiting the sale and possession of ghost guns, requiring background checks for all gun sales, and a ban on assault-style weapons. Democratic Senate, comptroller candidates pitch for Cook County partys support The fight over the ban on assault-style weapons lives on, however. Also on Monday, the Illinois State Rifle Association posted a video on social media applauding President Donald Trumps Justice Department for joining its challenge to the ban. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. For years, outlandish theories about the U.S. government using airplanes to spray harmful chemicals over U.S. homes or powerful elites controlling the weather were relegated to the fringes of society. Not anymore. As the internet has provided rocket fuel for such claims, Republican lawmakers across the country are introducing, passing and enacting laws to ban weather modification and environmental geoengineering and allude to the use of chemtrails, a longtime theory that planes are spreading chemical agents on an unsuspecting public. As more people are exposed to dangerous flooding, the GOP lawmakers have pointed to the fringe theories as potential explanations for extreme weather, pushing them further into the political mainstream. (Scientists have found evidence tying the increasing frequency of extreme weather to climate change.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican lawmakers in nearly 20 state legislatures have proposed such legislation, with governors in Tennessee and Florida having signed bills into law. On the federal level, Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., recently introduced the Clear Skies Act, which would outlaw forms of geoengineering and hit alleged weather modifiers with penalties of up to $100,000 for each violation and potential prison sentences of up to five years. Its not a conspiracy theory, Pennsylvania state Sen. Camera Bartolotta, a Republican who co-sponsored legislation in her state, said in an interview. All you have to do is look up. At its core, the legislative push seeks to outlaw human-made alterations to the climate notable, given how the party has fought to stop efforts to combat climate change tied to fossil fuel consumption and as the Trump administration has cut funding for climate change research and removed the website that hosted the governments climate assessments. One political party in this country seems especially concerned about the idea of theoretical changes in the weather, Matthew Cappucci, a meteorologist for The Washington Post and other outlets, told NBC News. Whereas that same political party will largely turn a blind eye to actual weather modification that is happening in slow motion, i.e., human-induced climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greene, who is leading the charge to pass federal legislation to ban weather modification, said she saw kind of a funny hypocrisy among climate change activists who are yelling, Weve got to stop climate change. But yet theyre like, No, dont stop manmade climate change, she continued. So I find that to be a laughable hypocrisy. And so it just doesnt add up to me. Greene has for years been subject to heavy criticism over her 2018 claim that lasers from space may have triggered a 2018 wildfire in California. She now feels a sense of vindication as Republicans across the country feel compelled to produce legislation similar to hers. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., on July 22. (Bloomberg via Getty Images) This is something Ive talked about for quite some time, Greene said in an interview. Got attacked for talking about it, for saying that, yes, theyre controlling the weather. I said theyre controlling the weather, and people tore me up all over social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked who "they" referred to, Greene's office pointed to her post on X last year noting that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration collects the names of companies that engage in weather modification. She pointed to decades-old government experiments involving cloud seeding, including Operation Popeye, a military effort during the Vietnam War that sought to extend the monsoon season to disrupt supply lines. Other efforts included Project Stormfury and Project Cirrus, decades-old government or military efforts aimed at studying whether hurricanes could be weakened with human intervention. That research proved unsuccessful. Greene also highlighted small-scale cloud seeding efforts that are now used. The practice, which usually involves spraying silver iodide into clouds to draw water out of the atmosphere and produce extra snow or rain, has been around since the 1950s and is primarily used in more arid Western states to boost water supplies. Experts said those efforts, which are conducted by private companies and require notices beforehand, are not being conducted at a scale large enough to trigger floods like those that recently took place in Texas and New Mexico. Solar radiation modification, another target of Greene and Burchetts legislation, involves reflecting sunlight into space by releasing particles into the upper atmosphere or increasing the sizes and brightness of clouds over the ocean, though the Environmental Protection Agency says the government is not engaged in such testing. The idea of geoengineering is a real, theoretical thing. In theory, one could go up and dim the sun and change the climate. Thats never been done at scale, Cappucci said. Cloud seeding exists on a very, very, very small scale, but what politicians are trying to do is lump those two concepts together with wild, outlandish conspiracy theories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greene, Burchett and Bartolotta all said in interviews that their legislative efforts were the result of getting outsized constituent feedback on the theories. I get a lot of calls on it, Burchett said, adding: Its a hot button issue. And its an issue that was in the real realm of the conspiracy theorists. But if you look [online], youll notice that it has taken on a little bit more mainstream. You have one group that says its real, and the other group says youre a lunatic, that it doesnt exist. Asked what he would say to someone who believes he is a lunatic for proposing his legislation, Burchett said the bill is a no-lose proposition. If it doesnt exist, Burchett said, then you dont have anything to worry about. Rep. Tim Burchett on Capitol Hill on April 19, 2024. (Andrew Harnik / Getty Images) Experts said some are conflating outright falsehoods with legitimate, small-scale research into geoengineering which have been blown up into claims that scientists or governments are controlling weather patterns or creating severe weather events. That is not happening, but the backlash to the research is intensifying. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, a project in Alameda, California, to test marine cloud brightening by scientists was shut down in light of significant pushback from local residents, even though researchers showed that the effort was harmless. The leader of an anti-government militia in Oklahoma this month welcomed an attack on a local weather station radar, insisting that meteorological equipment can manipulate the weather. To outlaw something that, for the most part, doesnt really exist in an effort to appease voters is so incredibly easy, Cappucci said. It would be like if voters hated unicorns and I passed an anti-unicorn bill. Id suddenly be popular. Theories around weather manipulation spread rapidly last year after Hurricane Helene triggered massive flooding around Asheville, North Carolina. Such claims resurfaced after flooding killed at least 120 people in Texas this month. Lawmakers also pointed to unprecedented flooding last year in the United Arab Emirates which uses cloud seeding to increase rainfall, though officials and researchers have said cloud seeding did not trigger the floods. Capt. William Murgatroyd's cloud-seeding mission in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, on Jan. 31, 2024. (Andrea DiCenzo / Getty Images) Theyre upset over what they call chemtrails they see in the sky, Greene said of constituents who have contacted her about the issue. Theyre continually upset about it, and theyre engaged on it. But it hadnt gotten there on a wide scale. Remember the flooding in Dubai? That was one of the first times I saw, like, Oh, this went mainstream, and people are paying attention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Democrat who works on environmental policy said the episode has them feeling as bleak as ever about the future of their field. I saw someone tweet the other day a picture of the sky, and it was blue, this person said. And then 20 minutes later, there were clouds. And they said, How is this possible? And Im like, have people just never looked up? This person said the focus on geoengineering has crystallized in their mind as the next stage of the Republican response to the impact of climate change. It went from we dont believe in climate change to we actually believe in this other thing, this person said. It absolutely is their response to climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greene and Burchetts legislation still has a long road ahead of it before it could become law, which Greene acknowledged in the interview. But in Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed such legislation into law last month. That bill was a high-level priority for Republican state Attorney General James Uthmeier, DeSantis former chief of staff. At Uthmeiers urging, the states Republican-dominated Legislature passed a bill this year that makes weather modification and geoengineering a third-degree felony punishable by a fine of up to $100,000. The bill passed with only Republican votes. Florida does appear to have seen evidence of weather modification activities in the state, a spokesman for the attorney generals office said. We dont yet know what impacts cloud-seeding or aerosol releases have on environmental or human health, which is all the more reason why Florida wants to raise public awareness and stop weather modification experiments in the state. In Florida, a decades-old law requires permission from the state for anyone to alter the weather. State officials told the Tampa Bay Times that no one has ever applied under the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter this month, Uthmeier warned publicly owned airports across the state that they must be in compliance with the new law, which requires public airports to report planes with weather modification devices to the state, and suggested that weather modification may have triggered the flooding in Texas. Because airports are most likely to catch those who seek to weaponize science in order to push their agenda, your compliance with these reporting obligations is essential to keeping our state safe from these harmful chemicals and experiments, Uthmeier wrote this month. The Trump administration is also trying to address the concerns. This month, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin directed readers to his agencys new resources on geoengineering and contrails. (Contrails are naturally forming condensation trails from rockets and other aircraft.) Those new websites shut down claims of government weather control, saying the government was not engaged in solar geoengineering testing and that the federal government is not aware of there ever being a contrail intentionally formed over the United States for the purpose of geoengineering or weather modification. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bartolotta highlighted the new information now available on the EPAs website, saying its mention of the issue is more evidence that her concerns are valid and adding that she is worried about potential adverse health impacts. I know so many people today, theyre finally noticing, and it gets worse and worse and worse, she said. Every single day, you cant look at the sky and not see huge stripes sprayed by all these planes every single day and every night. Allan Smith reported from New York and Washington and Matt Dixon from Florida. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Were more than a year out from the 2026 midterm elections, but the Republican Party is already starting to position itself for what will likely be a difficult election cycle. Texas lawmakers have an unusual plan to redraw their maps early and eke out as many as five more likely Republican seats in the House of Representatives and California Gov. Gavin Newsom is promising to respond by doing the same thing in California. To find out more, I asked my colleague Christian Paz, who wrote about these efforts last week. We sat down to chat about his reporting for Voxs daily newsletter, Today, Explained, and our conversation is below. You can also sign up for the newsletter here for more conversations like this. What are Republicans trying to do ahead of the 2026 midterms? Ahead of the 2026 midterms, when parties in power tend to lose seats in Congress, there is an expectation that Trump, who has a tiny two-seat majority in the House, could lose that majority, which would effectively render him a lame duck for the second half of his second term. In response, Trump has been pushing for Texas state Republicans to take advantage of the fact that the legislature in Texas controls redistricting and to redraw the maps in Texas in the middle of the decade, when it is not usually the norm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans could gain about five seats that are less competitive than the current map makes it out to be essentially dividing up Democratic districts, mixing them with some Republican-leaning voters, and carving out five more seats that presumably Republicans would then win and be able to keep their majority in the House. Are there other states looking to do this, too? There are a handful of other states. At the moment, there is redistricting happening in Ohio as a result of court challenges in the past, and the new maps that are being redrawn would render about three more Republican seats out of Ohio. The other state is Missouri, which would render one more Republican seat. In response, the question has been, Can Democrats do this, too? The reason this is happening is because these are states where 1) Republicans have total control of government, and 2) the legislature still has power over drawing maps, or there are legal quirks requiring redistricting. Democrats are much more limited on this front because of the states that have Democratic trifectas, the majority of them dont give the power to redraw districts to the legislature. They give it to independent commissions or to bipartisan commissions, or their constitutions have stricter bans on redistricting early. With that being said, Gavin Newsom is threatening to add more Democratic seats in California. How does he want to make that happen? His plan is a little vague. A lot of the Democratic response seems to be a form of mutually assured destruction the main idea here is to say that youre going to do the same thing and hope to scare Republicans out of doing this. And the idea Gavin Newsom has proposed is putting a measure on the ballot in an upcoming election, having a statewide referendum to either approve new maps or permanently change the way that the state does its redistricting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The idea there is to create five to seven more Democratic seats in California, which seems like a pretty tall order. Its possible that the state is already pretty maxed out. Can Democrats conceivably wring enough seats out of their redistrictable states to match the GOP? The other obvious seats that are out there are states like Oregon, Washington, and Colorado, which conceivably could all produce one to two more Democratic seats. Theres always New York, too, and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, who met with Democratic state lawmakers from Texas last week, has said that hes open to the idea as well. Republicans seem to be all in for this plan. Democrats arent so sure. Tell me about that. The issue here is that Democrats, because they have tended to be the folks who argued against gerrymandering and this kind of politically motivated redistricting, acknowledge that its not normal to do this. They acknowledge that maybe the rules are changing, but redistricting opens them up to charges of hypocrisy or descending to the same level as Republicans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But many Democrats are saying, you know, Were running out of options. Democratic voters want us to do something. Thats been the rallying cry from the party base to party leadership over the last year, and this is a pretty substantive plan to do that. But then what happens in the next five years? What happens in 10 years? Is this just going to become something that states do whenever they notice that their national party is in danger of losing a majority or losing a political advantage? Does that then diminish trust in the political system as a whole? Does that raise even more questions about accountability and transparency that were the point of trying to have independent redistricting to begin with? In previous midterms, youve seen much bigger swings than five or even 10 seats, so its very possible that this shaves the margins for Republicans, but doesnt end up swinging control of the House in 2026, right? Yes. This could either be another 2018 blue wave situation, where even if Republicans redistrict, they would lose the majority anyway. Or it could be a 2022-style midterm, where you have mixed results Democrats are able to flip some Senate seats, but Republicans are actually able to uphold or expand their House majority by small margins. And the reason I bring that last point up is because this is another point that some critics on both sides are making. By trying to gerrymander things even more, youre making assumptions about what voters you have in your column, and given how much various parts of the electorate have swungBlack and Latino voters have swung toward the Republicans. Could they be swinging away from them this time around? Are you making an assumption as a Republican that you have a lot of a certain kind of voter, and then making a district slightly less safe because youre trying to shovel voters into a new district that youre creating? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It creates questions about same effect in California: If you try to max out even more districts, are you accidentally making some of your other districts more competitive than they have to be, and in that case, will you end up having to spend even more money and resources on races that werent competitive before, but now are because youre trying to marginally make another seat less competitive? Theres a lot of inherent assumptions being made about what the electorate will look like next year. And again, one thing thats really easy to forget and this is true for the parties, too, and I havent really seen this discussed is that in the Trump era, you have two different electorates. You have different electorates that turn out in midterms versus general elections. Sometimes it can be drastically different and much more Democratically aligned than you expect, and that ends up leading to overperformance, like in 2018 or 2022. So there is a different question, right? If you make certain seats more Republican by packing voters in there, what happens when the voters you assume would be voting for you dont come out to vote? It could really backfire. Residents of Canada's largest city are reaping the benefits of repurposing small parcels of underutilized land into vibrant green spaces. A profile by Toronto Today examined the impact of the city's many parkettes in improving the quality of life for its citizens. A parkette is defined as a tiny green space of 0.5 hectares or less. Toronto now has almost 500 parkettes dotted throughout the city. These little pockets of paradise are typically placed on the sites of old buildings or disused parking lots. They provide Torontians with much-needed spaces to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, to socialize, and exercise their pets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One pet owner marvelled, "Being able to have a space where they can play and get enrichment is great, and it's also a good mental health break from working." For office workers downtown, those green spaces offer a quiet place to break up the day. "I'm big on grounding putting your feet on grass. It's great." One office worker said. The benefits of urban green spaces are well-documented and extend beyond providing a pleasant space for residents to unwind. Urban greenery serves as a crucial heat trap, helping to improve air quality and lower temperatures. Research indicates that a park or parkette can reduce the surrounding area's temperature by 1 to 2C. Additionally, green spaces can provide critical habitats for wildlife living in cities. Urban rewilding projects are proving effective in restoring badly needed biodiversity to cities. The city of Toronto is looking to add yet more parkettes through the Parkland Strategy, a long-term initiative to improve and revitalize the city's parks system. This will include a decade-long effort to connect the parkettes along the so-called Green Line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rise of the parkette exemplifies the impact of community-based efforts in enhancing the quality of life for residents. While the larger projects receive most of the attention and photo opportunities, making the most of the smaller parcels of land will ultimately have the most significant impact. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) A plan to revamp The Nations is moving forward in Metro Council. That proposal includes rezoning and new affordable housing, but not all neighbors are on board. Neighborhood News: Stories impacting your community | Read More Two people who live in The Nations said this new plan will completely change the neighborhood they love. The proposed Nations Neighborhood Plan is a strategy that aims to address affordable housing, sustainable growth even allows homeowners to build DADUs like mother in law suites or above the garage apartments. But some neighbors arent entirely in support of the new plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Nations residents Rachel Gladstone and Lauren Magli said theres already so much density in the neighborhood that people can barely park their cars. And they claim residents and local businesses werent told about the rezone early enough. Gladstone said with the parking, sewer and infrastructure issues, she feels like her neighborhood is being stolen from her. Im outraged that this is being allowed to happen without any contribution from the neighbors or the business owners here, Gladstone said. I live here; this is my home. I dont want two giant stack apartment buildings next to me with no parking. This is a land grab, Magli said. We have multiple apartments now, and we want a diversity of housing, and they could still be permitted under the current zoning, just with conditions. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts Metro Councilman Rollin Horton issued a statement to News 2 regarding the Nations Neighborhood Plan. The Nations Neighborhood Plan is a plan by the neighborhood, for the neighborhood. It delivers on our neighborhoods goals more walkability, more support for neighborhood businesses, different housing options for residents, higher tree preservation and planting requirements, and more. Its been shaped by nearly two years of community engagement with neighborhood groups, the neighborhood business association, HOAs, church groups, and the neighborhood association. Metro Councilman Rollin Horton, District 20 Horton is planning a town hall with The Nations neighbors on the rezoning on Wednesday. Do you have news happening in your neighborhood? Let us know by sending an email to neighborhoodnews@wkrn.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) Whose responsibility is it? That is what one Abilene man is asking regarding the unkempt state of his neighborhoods alley. Since 2012, Ron Nelson has lived in the Brookhollow neighborhood in Abilene and says that he is now dealing with an alley that is unmanageable due to illegal dumping and neighbors neglect. In an effort to get some help with the issue, Ron contacted the city and says that their input wasnt what he expected. Yall have responsibility up to the center of the alley. Youve got to keep the grass cut, trees trimmed, and all that. I said, Well, nobodys watching or making sure that people are doing that, Nelson shared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nelson says that because of this lack of oversight by the city, the alleyway behind his house now resembles something out of a jungle, complete with large shrubs and trees encasing many of the utility meters found in the alley. Nelson doesnt mind doing his share of the lawn work and has been known to maintain as much of the alley as possible with a little bit of extra mowing. From budget cuts to BYOB backlash: Councilman Regan gets candid in Abilenes city budget talks However, there are some sections of the alley that he says are so encumbered with debris and trash being dumped, hes worried itll harm his mower. In response, he has taken it upon himself to clear the extra debris from his neighbors portion of the alley and labels some of the items hes come across. Refrigerators, dishwashers. Im constantly going a little bit at a time and just picking it up and taking it out to the front of my house and putting it on the curb because they dont have alley pick up here, Nelson shared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District funding stable despite federal cuts In reaching out to the City of Abilene regarding this situation, our station was informed that the city has spoken with Mr. Nelson on many occasions about this issue with the alleyway and sent a statement regarding the situation. The statement reads: According to the Citys Code of Ordinances, alleyway maintenanceincluding litter removal, mowing, and tree trimmingis the responsibility of adjacent property owners, from the center of the alley to their property line. The City maintains the driving surface of alleys when they are actively used for solid waste collection. In Mr. Nelsons case, the alley behind his home is not used for trash pickup, resulting in minimal traffic and maintenance. However, utility lines do run through the alley, and it remains a functional utility easement. Residents have access to several City resources to help address alley-related concerns: Illegal dumping: Report to the City Marshals Division at 325-676-6437 Tall grass and weeds: Contact the Code Office at 325-676-3867 Brush and bulky item pickup: Call the Solid Waste Department at 325-676-6053 or drop off brush at the Abilene Brush Center, 2149 Sandy Street Tree limbs on power lines: Report to AEP at 1-877-373-4858 Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. Civil rights attorneys Ben Crump, Harry Daniels, and Sue-Ann Robinson will join William McNeil Jr., his family for a news conference on Tuesday to discuss a new angle of a video involving a Jacksonville Sheriffs Office officer. Note: While Reverend Jesse Jackson was scheduled to appear, he did not seem to have been present. The video in question shows an officer pointing a gun at McNeil, a Livingstone College student, during a traffic stop on Feb. 19, according to a news release from McNeils attorneys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officers claimed McNeil did not have his headlights on, which led to the stop. Read: Black drivers disproportionately ticketed by JSO for having headlights off in bad weather The attorneys involved, including Ben Crump, are nationally renowned for their work in civil rights cases. During the Feb. 19 incident, McNeil was pulled over by JSO. He asked to speak with a supervisor to which the officers responded by smashing his window and punching him in the face multiple times. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. Most of the United States major climate regulations are underpinned by one important document: Its called the endangerment finding, and it concludes that greenhouse gas emissions are a threat to human health and welfare. The Trump administration is vowing to eliminate it. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin referred to the 2009 endangerment finding as the holy grail of the climate religion when he announced on March 12, 2025, that he would reconsider the finding and all U.S. climate regulations and actions that rely on it. That would include rules to control planet-warming emissions of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane from power plants, vehicles and oil and gas operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But revoking the endangerment finding isnt a simple task. And doing so could have unintended consequences for the very industries Trump is trying to help. As a law professor, I have tracked federal climate regulations and the lawsuits and court rulings that have followed them over the past 25 years. To understand the challenges, lets look at the endangerment findings origins and Zeldins options. Origin and limits of the endangerment finding In 2007, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Massachusetts v. EPA that six greenhouse gases are pollutants under the Clean Air Act and that the EPA has a duty under the same law to determine whether they pose a danger to public health or welfare. The court also ruled that once the EPA made an endangerment finding, the agency would have a mandatory duty under the Clean Air Act to regulate all sources that contribute to the danger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Court emphasized that the endangerment finding was a scientific determination and rejected a laundry list of policy arguments made by the George W. Bush administration for why the government preferred to use nonregulatory approaches to reduce emissions. The court said the only question was whether sufficient scientific evidence exists to determine whether greenhouse gases are harmful. The endangerment finding was the EPAs response. The finding was challenged and upheld in 2012 by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. In that case, Coalition for Responsible Regulation v. EPA, the court found that the body of scientific evidence marshaled by the EPA in support of the endangerment finding is substantial. The Supreme Court declined to review the decision. The endangerment finding was updated and confirmed by the EPA in 2015 and 2016. Challenging the endangerment finding The scientific basis for the endangerment finding is stronger today than it was in 2009. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Changes latest assessment report, involving hundreds of scientists and thousands of studies from around the world, concluded that the scientific evidence for warming of the climate system is unequivocal and that greenhouse gases from human activities are causing it. According to the National Climate Assessment released in 2023, the effects of human-caused climate change are already far-reaching and worsening across every region of the United States. Summer temperatures have climbed in much of the U.S. and the world as greenhouse gas emissions have risen. Fifth National Climate Assessment During President Donald Trumps first term, then-EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt considered repealing the endangerment finding but ultimately decided against it. In fact, he relied on it in proposing the Affordable Clean Energy Rule to replace President Barack Obamas Clean Power Plan for regulating emissions for coal-fired power plants. What happens if the EPA revokes the endangerment finding? For the Trump administration to now revoke that finding, Zeldin must first recruit new members of the EPAs Science Advisory Board to replace those dismissed by the Trump administration. Congress created the board in 1978 to provide independent, unbiased scientific advice to the EPA administrator, and it has consistently supported the 2009 endangerment finding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zeldin must then initiate rulemaking in compliance with the Administrative Procedure Act, provide the opportunity for public comment and respond to comments that are likely to be voluminous. This process could take several months if done properly. If Zeldin then decides to revoke the endangerment finding, lawsuits will immediately challenge the move. Even if Zeldin is able to revoke the finding, that does not automatically repeal all the rules that rely on it. Each of those rules must go through separate rulemaking processes that will also take months. Zeldin could simply refuse to enforce the rules on the books while he reconsiders the endangerment finding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, a blanket policy abdicating any enforcement responsibility could be challenged in lawsuits as arbitrary and capricious. Further, the regulated industries would be taking a chance if they delayed complying with regulations only to find the endangerment finding and climate laws still in place. Zeldins cost argument Zeldin previewed his arguments in a news release on March 12. His first argument is that the 2009 endangerment finding did not consider costs. However, that argument was rejected by the D.C. Circuit Court in Coalition for Responsible Regulation v. EPA. Cost becomes relevant once the EPA considers new regulations after the endangerment finding. Moreover, in a unanimous 2001 decision, the Supreme Court in Whitman v. American Trucking Associations held that the EPA cannot consider cost in setting air quality standards. A repeal could backfire Repealing the endangerment finding could also backfire on the fossil fuel industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement States and cities have filed dozens of lawsuits against the major oil companies. The industrys strongest argument has been that these cases are preempted by federal law. In AEP v. Connecticut in 2011, the Supreme Court ruled that the Clean Air Act displaced federal common law, barring state claims for remedies related to damages from climate change. However, if the endangerment finding is repealed, then there is arguably no basis for federal preemption, and these state lawsuits would have legal grounds. Prominent industry lawyers have warned the EPA about this and urged it to focus instead on changing individual regulations. The industry is concerned enough that it may try to get Congress to grant it immunity from climate lawsuits. To the extent that Zeldin is counting on the conservative Supreme Court to back him up, he may be disappointed. In 2024, the court overturned the Chevron doctrine, which required courts to defer to agencies reasonable interpretations when laws were ambiguous. That means Zeldins reinterpretation of the statute is not entitled to deference. Nor can he count on the court overturning its Massachusetts v. EPA ruling to free him to disregard science for policy reasons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Patrick Parenteau, Vermont Law & Graduate School Read more: Patrick Parenteau does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Governor Larry Rhoden announced a public safety initiative aimed at protecting South Dakotans. He is ordering multiple state agencies to work with city and county law enforcement to crack down on crime in Sioux Falls. Its called Operation Prairie Thunder. It was a whos who of law enforcement in one room for the Governors announcement. Governor Larry Rhoden announced what he calls a targeted anti-crime initiative to go after illegal drugs, investigate gang activity, hold parole absconders accountable, and stop dangerous street racing. The primary effort will be saturation patrols starting next month. Twice a month, the state will send 10 to 15 extra troopers to Sioux Falls. 500+ without power in Gregory County after tornado Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of these efforts will be coordinated with the existing local crime task force. We are not here to reinvent the wheel; we are here to support what works and provide some extra juice, said Rhoden. Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken says Sioux Falls is a safe community; however, he considers this a proactive measure as the city continues to grow. We are proud right now, we are at a 5-year low for violent crime and property crimes per capita, said TenHaken. But we are adding more people. That does mean we do have more violent crimes, we do have more property crimes, as we do add more of those lane miles and road miles, we do have a lot more exhibition driving and a lot more speeding. Sioux Falls residents may notice helicopters in the skies above the city more often. Rhoden has authorized the use of the state airplane and the National Guards Lakota Helicopters, which are often used in drug interdiction. If the plan proves successful, Rapid City and other cities could see programs in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to emphasize that this is a pilot project, said Rhoden. My vision is that this type of coordinated effort will be a model and replicated in other communities to help keep all of South Dakota safe. As part of Operation Prairie Thunder, the Governor is also directing the Highway Patrol, the National Guard, and the Department of Corrections to train and work closely with ICE agents in the state. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha joined 21 other states Monday in suing the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) over an unprecedented demand for sensitive personal information of food assistance recipients. The lawsuit challenges a directive issued in May by the USDA, requiring states to collect and share data on individuals who have applied for or received Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits since Jan. 1, 2020. That includes names, birthdates, Social Security numbers, addresses, and all records used to determine eligibility. SNAP is a federally funded, state-administered program that provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families in need. In Rhode Island, it is managed by the Department of Human Services and serves more than 10% of the states population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Trumps new budget law will bring changes to food assistance According to the USDA, the demand is part of implementing President Donald Trumps executive order, requiring unfettered access to comprehensive data from federally funded programs. The agency claims the effort would help reduce fraud and improve government efficiency. States were ordered to comply by July 30, with a warning that funding could be withheld if they refused. However, the coalition of attorneys general, along with the governor of Kentucky, argued the Trump administration is overstepping its authority, violating privacy laws and putting millions of vulnerable of Americans at risk. They pointed out SNAPs already rigorous fraud prevention systems and said there is no legal justification for the federal government to collect such sweeping amounts of personal data. (Daniel Acker/Bloomberg via Getty Images) Never before has the federal government demanded that states turn over [personally identifying information] on their entire SNAP caseloads, the lawsuit reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rhode Island receives nearly $27 million annually in federal funding to administer SNAP. Neronha warned that any delay in that funding could have a catastrophic impact on residents who rely on the program. Once again, this administration is attempting to unlawfully collect sensitive personal information this time by threatening Americans ability to feed their families, Neronha said. These are our neighbors, our colleagues, our friends. They have children who may go hungry without the program. READ ALSO: Neronha among AGs suing Trump over conditions on federal funding The attorneys general also alleged the USDAs demand is part of a broader campaign by the Trump administration to collect personal information for other federal agendas, including immigration enforcement. They claimed the Department of Government Efficiency has been quietly amassing data to build a searchable database of citizens and non-citizens to help locate and deport individuals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit cited recent examples of data-sharing between the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Homeland Security, including access to Medicaid information that was later made available to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Against this backdrop, Plaintiff States are deeply and justifiably concerned about USDAs intent and what will happen to this data once it is in the hands of the federal government, the lawsuit states. And, more fundamentally, Plaintiff States dispute that the federal governments demands are lawful to begin with. The attorneys general claimed the move is invasive and unnecessary, while putting states in an impossible position, forced to either violate privacy protections or risk losing the federal funding necessary to keep SNAP running. NEXT: Worker at popular Providence restaurants detained by ICE, moved to Texas facility Read the full complaint below. CA-et-al.-v.-USDA-et-al.-Complaint-filedDownload Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Cedar Point amusement park in Ohio unveiled a new roller coaster called Siren's Curse this summer. However, the new ride has experienced a few hiccups and malfunctions in just a short time since opening, including one on its opening day, June 28. Roller Coaster Expert Weighs in on Siren's Curse Issues Since its opening, the Siren's Curse ride has experienced five malfunctions, with riders being stuck on the coaster. Nick Weisenberger, who has published books on the science of roller coasters and works with Coaster101, spoke about the issues, per Craig Webb of The Akron Beacon Journal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Its important to understand that thrill rides are over-engineered for fail-safe performance," he said. "There are hundreds of sensors and they all have to agree; otherwise, the ride stops out of an abundance for caution." This Tilt Coaster Style is Nothing New As Weisenberger mentioned, the tilt coaster style, which is what Siren's Curse is, has been around for some time. "Escape from Gringotts at Universal Studios Florida, opened in 2014, has three motion base track segments including a tilt track," he said. "It also experienced frequent shutdowns and evacuations during its first few months before its reliability was smoothed out." Siren's Curse features a 160-foot-tall tilt tower, but Weisenberger said there is always a "learning curve" with new rides. Statement From Park Spokesperson Reveals the Safety Feature After the ride malfunctioned, park spokesperson Tony Clark issued a statement on the issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The coasters safety system performed as designed, the ride was restarted, and guests continued their ride. It reopened shortly after and all guests exited the ride safely," Clark said. Clark also said the ride has experienced "minor technical delays" over the past few weeks, but the important thing is the safety of everybody. "Guest satisfaction is extremely important to us, and we will continue to work closely with the rides manufacturer to deliver an experience without interruption," Clark said, via Craig Webb. So, while Siren's Curse has had its fair share of issues in a short time, both Weisenberger and Clark don't seem too concerned about the long-term issues for the new ride. Related: Guests Stuck on New Roller Coaster for 20 Minutes After Latest Breakdown Ride Expert Reveals Why Sirens Curse Keeps Stopping first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 29, 2025 Raquel Celina Rodriguez watches her step as she walks across the Vega de Tilopozo in Chile's Atacama salt flats. It's a wetland, known for its groundwater springs, but the plain is now dry and cracked with holes she explains were once pools. "Before, the Vega was all green," she says. "You couldn't see the animals through the grass. Now everything is dry." She gestures to some grazing llamas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For generations, her family raised sheep here. As the climate changed, and rain stopped falling, less grass made that much harder. But it worsened when "they" started taking the water, she explains. Raquel's family raised sheep in Chile's Atacama salt flats for generations but now everything is dry, she says [Ben Derico/BBC] "They" are lithium companies. Beneath the salt flats of the Atacama Desert lie the world's largest reserves of lithium, a soft, silvery-white metal that is an essential component of the batteries that power electric cars, laptops and solar energy storage. As the world transitions to more renewable energy sources, the demand for it has soared. In 2021, about 95,000 tonnes of lithium was consumed globally - by 2024 it had more than doubled to 205,000 tonnes, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By 2040 it's predicted to rise to more than 900,000 tonnes. Most of the increase will be driven by demand for electric car batteries, the IEA says. Locals say environmental costs to them have risen too. So, this soaring demand has raised the question: is the world's race to decarbonise unintentionally stoking another environmental problem? Flora, flamingos and shrinking lagoons Chile is the second-largest producer of lithium globally after Australia. In 2023, the government launched a National Lithium Strategy to ramp up production through partly nationalising the industry and encouraging private investment. Its finance minister previously said the increase in production could be by up to 70% by 2030, although the mining ministry says no target has been set. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This year, a major milestone to that is set to be reached. A planned joint enterprise between SQM and Chile's state mining company Codelco has just secured regulatory approval for a quota to extract at least 2.5 million metric tonnes of lithium metal equivalent per year and boost production until 2060. Chile's government has framed the plans as part of the global fight against climate change and a source of state income. Mining companies predominantly extract lithium by pumping brine from beneath Chile's salt flats to evaporation pools on the surface. The process extracts vast amounts of water in this already drought-prone region. Biologist Faviola Gonzalez monitors environmental changes in the Los Flamencos National Reserve, which is home to salt flats, marshes and lagoons [Ben Derico/BBC] Faviola Gonzalez is a biologist from the local indigenous community working in the Los Flamencos National Reserve, in the middle of the Atacama Desert, home to vast salt flats, marshes and lagoons and some 185 species of birds. She has monitored how the local environment is changing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The lagoons here are smaller now," she says. "We've seen a decrease in the reproduction of flamingos." She said lithium mining impacts microorganisms that birds feed on in these waters, so the whole food chain is affected. She points to a spot where, for the first time in 14 years, flamingo chicks hatched this year. She attributes the "small reproductive success" to a slight reduction in water extraction in 2021, but says, "It's small." "Before there were many. Now, only a few." The underground water from the Andes, rich in minerals, is "very old" and replenishes slowly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If we are extracting a lot of water and little is entering, there is little to recharge the Salar de Atacama," she explains. 'The lagoons here are smaller now. We've seen a decrease in the reproduction of flamingos' [Lucas Aguayo Araos/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images] Damage to flora has also been found in some areas. On property in the salt flats, mined by the Chilean company SQM, almost one-third of the native "algarrobo" (or carob) trees had started dying as early as 2013 due to the impacts of mining, according to a report published in 2022 by the US-based National Resources Defense Council. But the issue extends beyond Chile too. In a report for the US-based National Resources Defense Council in 2022, James J. A. Blair, an assistant professor at California State Polytechnic University, wrote that lithium mining is "contributing to conditions of ecological exhaustion", and "may decrease freshwater availability for flora and fauna as well as humans". He did, however, say that it is difficult to find "definitive" evidence on this topic. Mitigating the damage Environmental damage is of course inevitable when it comes to mining. "It's hard to imagine any kind of mining that does not have a negative impact," says Karen Smith Stegen, a political science professor at Constructor University in Germany, who studies the impacts of lithium mining across the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue is that mining companies can take steps to mitigate that damage. "What [mining companies] should have done from the very beginning was to involve these communities," she says. For example, before pumping lithium from underground, companies could carry out "social impact assessments" - reviews which take into account the broad impact their work will have on water, wildlife, and communities. Extracting lithium involves pumping brine from beneath Chile's salt flats to evaporation pools on the surface [Getty Images] For their part, mining companies now say they are listening. The Chilean firm SQM is one of the main players. At one of their plants in Antofagasta, Valentin Barrera, Deputy Manager of Sustainability at SQM Lithium, says the firm is working closely with communities to "understand their concerns" and carrying out environmental impact assessments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He feels strongly that in Chile and globally "we need more lithium for the energy transition." He adds that the firm is piloting new technologies. If successful, the idea is to roll these out in their Salar de Atacama plants. These include both extracting lithium directly from brine, without evaporation pools, and technologies to capture evaporated water and re-inject it into the land. "We are doing several pilots to understand which one works better in order to increase production but reduce at least 50% of the current brine extraction," he said. Valentin Barrera says Chilean firm SQM understands concerns and is working with communities [Ben Derico/BBC] He says the pilot in Antofagasta has recovered "more than one million cubic metres" of water. "Starting in 2031, we are going to start this transition." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the locals I spoke to are sceptical. "We believe the Salar de Atacama is like an experiment," Faviola argues. She says it's unknown how the salt flats could "resist" this new technology and the reinjection of water and fears they are being used as a "natural laboratory." Sara Plaza, whose family also raised animals in the same community as Raquel, is anxious about the changes she has seen in her lifetime. She remembers water levels dropping from as early as 2005 but says "the mining companies never stopped extracting." Sara becomes tearful when she speaks about the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The salt flats produce lithium, but one day it will end. Mining will end. And what are the people here going to do? Without water, without agriculture. What are they going to live on?" "Maybe I won't see it because of my age, but our children, our grandchildren will." She believes mining companies have extracted too much water from an ecosystem already struggling from climate change. "It's very painful," she adds. "The companies give the community a little money, but I'd prefer no money. "I'd prefer to live off nature and have water to live." The impact of water shortages Sergio Cubillos is head of the association for the Peine community, where Sara and Raquel live. He says Peine has been forced to change "our entire drinking water system, electrical system, water treatment system" because of water shortages. "There is the issue of climate change, that it doesn't rain anymore, but the main impact has been caused by extractive mining," he says. He says since it started in the 1980s, companies have extracted millions of cubic metres of water and brine hundreds of litres per second. "Decisions are made in Santiago, in the capital, very far from here," he adds. He believes that if the President wants to fight climate change, like he said when he ran for office, he needs to involve "the indigenous people who have existed for millennia in these landscapes." Chile is the world's second-largest lithium producer, after Australia [Lucas Aguayo Araos/Anadolu via Getty Images] Sergio understands that lithium is very important for transitioning to renewable energy but says his community should not be the "bargaining chip" in these developments. His community has secured some economic benefits and oversight with companies but is worried about plans to ramp up production. He says while seeking technologies to reduce the impact on water is welcome that "can't be done sitting at a desk in Santiago, but rather here in the territory." Sergio Cubillos says his community should not be a "bargaining chip" [Ben Derico/BBC] Chile's government stresses there has been "ongoing dialogue with indigenous communities" and they have been consulted over the new Codelco-SQM joint venture's contracts to address concerns around water issues, new technologies and contributions to the communities. It says increasing production capacity will be based on incorporating new technologies to minimise the environmental and social impact and that the high "value" of lithium due to its role in the global energy transition could provide "opportunities" for the country's economic development. Sergio though worries about their area being a "pilot project" and says if the impact of new technology is negative, "We will put all our strength into stopping the activity that could end with Peine being forgotten." A small part of a global dilemma The Salar de Atacama is a case study for a global dilemma. Climate change is causing droughts and weather changes. But one of the world's current solutions is according to locals exacerbating this. There is a common argument from people who support lithium mining: that even if it damages the environment, it brings huge benefits via jobs and cash. Daniel Jimenez, from lithium consultancy iLiMarkets, in Santiago, takes this argument a step further. He claims that environmental damage has been exaggerated by communities who want a pay-out. What's happening in the Salar de Atacama is a case study for a global dilemma - and debate [Lucas Aguayo Araos/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images] "This is about money," he argues. "Companies have poured a lot of money into improving roads, schools but the claims of communities really go back to the fact they want money." But Prof Stegen is unconvinced. "Mining companies always like to say, 'There are more jobs, you're going to get more money'," she says. "Well, that's not particularly what a lot of indigenous communities want. It actually can be disruptive if it changes the structure of their own traditional economy [and] it affects their housing costs. "The jobs are not the be all and end all for what these communities want." In Chile, those I spoke to didn't talk about wanting more money. Nor are they opposed to measures to tackle climate change. Their main question is why they are paying the price. "I think for the cities maybe lithium is good," Raquel says. "But it also harms us. We don't live the life we used to live here." Faviola does not think electrifying alone is the solution to climate change. "We all must reduce our emissions," she says. "In developed countries like the US and Europe the energy expenditure of people is much greater than here in South America, among us indigenous people." "Who are the electric cars going to be for? Europeans, Americans, not us. Our carbon footprint is much smaller." "But it's our water that's being taken. Our sacred birds that are disappearing." Top image credit: Getty Images. Additional reporting: George Wright More from InDepth BBC InDepth is the home on the website and app for the best analysis, with fresh perspectives that challenge assumptions and deep reporting on the biggest issues of the day. And we showcase thought-provoking content from across BBC Sounds and iPlayer too. You can send us your feedback on the InDepth section by clicking on the button below. Gov. Wes Moore, D-Md., said the Democratic Party gave up on certain parts of the U.S. in the 2024 election, lamenting the party's focus on certain states. Former DNC chair Jaime Harrison spoke to Moore on his podcast "At Our Table" and asked the Democratic governor if there was anything former Vice President Kamala Harris or the campaign should have done differently. Moore replied, "I dont know. Its always challenging if such a large percentage of the country, rightly or wrongly, feel the country is going in the wrong direction. It's just difficult to be the vice president, to come into that. I don't know what she could have done differently, or whatever happened. The thing I think we have to remember to do though, is, I've been deeply disappointed where it feels like there are certain areas and communities that we almost seemingly just gave up on." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added, "We just stopped competing. We stopped making the case. We came up with this philosophy where, listen, it all comes down to three states." Harrison agreed and added, "We cede ground." Appearing on a podcast, Gov. Wes Moore, D-Md., said of the Democrats in 2024: "It feels like there are certain areas and communities that we almost seemingly just gave up on." Less Than 4 Months Into Trump's 2Nd Term, Dems Are Already Eyeing The 2028 Race Read On The Fox News App "And it's like, do you know who hears this thing is only going to come down to three states? The other 47. Like, 'we don't even matter, man.' When we hear, We need to make sure we go after the working voter in Pennsylvania, and that's the key, do you know who hears that? Everybody you're not talking about. And I just think we ceded a lot of ground," Moore said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moore argued that a lot of key Democratic voters felt taken for granted in 2024. "And then we get upset, and then we're like, what happened with this group? What happened with that group? And they're saying like, Yo, what happened to the party? I think there needs to be a real level setting about who is our base, man. And who are we fighting for? This is not a game for people. This is not game theory. This is not checkers. They're real life. These are real lives," Moore continued. Ex-dnc Chair Complains Democrats Expected Him To 'Just Rubber-stamp' Plans During 2024 Campaign Moore spoke to Fox News' Bret Baier earlier this month and said he was not considering running for president in 2028. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And the thing is, I think that anybody who's talking about 2028 is not taking 2025 very seriously," he added. Jaime R. Harrison, former chairman of the Democratic National Committee, speaks onstage during the first day of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center on August 19, 2024, in Chicago, Illinois. Click Here For More Coverage Of Media And Culture Harrison recently spoke to Gov. Tim Walz, former Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate in 2024, about the Democratic Party. Walz wondered why the party comes off as being anti-success during their conversation. "We, as Democrats, we want people to pay their fair share, but why are we against people being successful like that? We can't be. Why are we against? We should talk about businesses. Not all businesses exploit their workers, and we get ourselves stuck in that. And I think we lose them," Walz said. Original article source: Rising Democratic star Wes Moore says party 'just gave up' on certain parts of USA in 2024 campaign With applications for the first phase of the national higher education entrance exam running until 4 August, there are many factors that influence the choice of future university students in Portugal. And while in the past, the educational institution itself was the main may consideration, now the university's location and rental prices may take priority. Private housing prices in Portugal have been rising in recent years, making access to higher education more difficult. According to the latest Student Accommodation report published earlier this month, quoted by Publico, the average price per room is 415/month. This is the first year that the average price of rooms in Portugal has been above 400, since 2021,when the data first started to be collated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the report, which collected data from public sources of information, namely real estate portals and industry agency websites, and aggregated data from more than 20 different platforms, 6,884 rooms were identified for rent across the country. Last year's analysis, in July 2024, indicated that there were 5,684 rooms available, with the average price at the time being 397/month. "It's with great concern that we look at these figures, because the increase in supply isn't bringing prices down and that's why we insist so much on the importance of having a stock of public housing," said the president of the Lisbon Academic Federation (FAL), Pedro Neto Monteiro, quoted by Publico. Which cities have the most expensive rooms? Among the main university cities, the capital, Lisbon, has the highest room rents in the private sector, with an average price of 500. In the Lisbon district, rents can even reach 714. This is followed by Porto with an average price of 400, Braga with 323 and then Coimbra, where student rooms cost an average of 280. The cities where private room rentals are lowest, taking into account the number of properties available for student accommodation, are Guarda with an average price of 180, and Braganca and Castelo Branco at 200. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It should be noted that over the last 12 months, the variation in room prices was 4.6% in Lisbon, 4.1% in Porto, 1.1% in Braga and 4.4% in Coimbra. The cities with the biggest price variations were Ponta Delgada (50.5%) and Funchal (26%), even though they have a small number of rooms available. Related In addition to unaffordable rents, the private market is marked by illegal practices, with landlords refusing to issue receipts, preventing students from accessing state aid to share accommodation costs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There has been a growing debate around prioritising student accommodation in Portugal, with the government promising more than 15,000 new beds by 2026. The National Plan for Accommodation in Higher Education (PNAES) estimates that public student residences currently have a maximum capacity of 16,571 beds. In April of this year, the president of the National Monitoring Committee for the Recovery and Resilience Programme (PRR), which funds the PNAES, revealed that an additional 4,000 beds were expected in student accommodation by the end of September. The public residences that have been built consist mainly of twin rooms, which is not so attractive for young students. "I was recently in a new residence where the rooms, for two people, were nine square metres, with beds 60 or 70 centimetres apart, and many students don't want to be in a monastic cell-type room, where they almost sleep hand in hand with a stranger," said Manuel Matos, a professor at the Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Lisboa (ISEL), a school of the Instituto Politecnico de Lisboa (IPL), quoted by Publico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As a result, we have public residences, sometimes with vacancies, because the price they charge for non-scholarship holders is not attractive. This is the case with residences with twin rooms, where the monthly fee for each bed is close to 200. That's not a low price for a bed." Related 115,000 displaced students in the 2023/2024 academic year Although this year's figures are not yet available, in the 2023/2024 academic year there were around 115,000 displaced students in public education, around a third of all students in higher education. Tuition fees in public student accommodation are, on average, lower than room rents in the private sector, ranging from less than 100 to 400 per room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Higher education students in Portugal who have moved for their studies - whether on a scholarship or not - that are unable to find a place in a public residence can apply for supplementary accommodation, the amount of which varies according to family income and the location of the educational institution. Scholarship holders who haven't found a place in a public student residence can receive support of up to 483 per month in Lisbon, Oeiras and Cascais. Displaced students who don't have a scholarship and have a per capita family income below 28 IAS on the Social Support Index can receive aid equivalent to 50% of the amount paid to scholarship holders. Grist / Simon & Schuster / Joseph Lee When former Grist fellow Joseph Lee tells people that his family is from Marthas Vineyard, an island off the coast of Massachusetts, they invariably look confused about what it means to be from a popular vacation spot for U.S. presidents and celebrities like Oprah. Their confusion deepens when he explains that hes Indigenous and a member of the Aquinnah Wampanoag nation. Their surprise says as much about Marthas Vineyard as it does about the way this country sees Indigenous people, Lee writes in his new book, Nothing More of This Land, which was published last week. Very few people ever say it, but I can always feel an unspoken but I thought you were all dead in those moments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout his book, Lee grapples with the question of what it means to be Indigenous. Its a question intricately connected to climate change, Lee says, because its a question directly related to land. On Marthas Vineyard, Lees community has long been saddled with the effects of colonization, which fuels both extreme gentrification and rising sea levels. Lee traces the history of his own tribal nation, reflects on being mixed race and living in diaspora, and envisions potential futures unencumbered by colonial constraints. This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity. Q. How would you describe the connection between Indigenous identity and climate change? A. When you talk about Indigenous people, you have to talk about land. And right now, when youre talking about land in any context, climate change is the looming backdrop. So many of the challenges Indigenous communities are facing may not be outwardly related to climate change, but theyre impacted by climate change. Fighting for water rights, which I would say is a sovereignty fight and a political fight, is made more difficult and the stakes are higher because of drought. Tensions around land ownership and what we do with our land are also made more complicated by climate impacts like rising sea levels and stronger storms that are eating away at our land. If youre fighting over land and land youre fighting over is shrinking because sea levels are rising, it makes that fight much more intense and much more urgent. You could look at salmon and the right to protect salmon and for subsistence lifestyles and all thats becoming more complicated not just because of overfishing but because the way that salmon and other fish are impacted by warming waters and climate change. Any area of the story that youre looking at, climate change is present. Q. I also grew up on an island that is a tourism hub, and in so many communities thats often perceived as the only viable economic driver. Can you talk about what it feels like to be Indigenous in a land thats become a tourist destination, and how that affects our communities? A. In this country, one part of the experience of being Indigenous is the experience of erasure and of being ignored. Thats throughout history, through culture, through politics, through all these spaces. But I think especially in a place like Marthas Vineyard, its even more extreme because the reputation of the place is so big and so specific. Being Indigenous, people are really often not listening to you. The more your land becomes a tourist destination, the harder it is for Indigenous voices to be heard, the harder it is for Indigenous people to hold onto the land. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a very concrete way, tourism typically drives property values up. It drives taxes up. And that makes it harder for folks to hold on to land thats been in the family for generations. And thats whats happened in Marthas Vineyard. Beyond that, I think tourism is just a really, really difficult and unfortunate choice that people have been kind of forced into. When so much opportunity has been taken away or denied from Indigenous communities in these places, tourism is often the only thing thats left. So it can become like a choice between having nothing and contributing to tourism, which is probably ultimately harming the community and the land, but theres no other way to make a living. So I think thats just a really unfortunate reality. Q. Theres a part in the book where youre talking about how every time you say youre from Marthas Vineyard, people either assume youre really rich or they think, Oh, I didnt realize that people live there. What do you want people to know about your community and your tribe in particular, separate from the broader journey of this book? Is there anything that you wish people knew that this book could convey so that other tribal members dont have to be on the receiving end of that question? A. First, I hope that this will help to change the narrative of erasure that has existed about Wampanoag people for most of this countrys history. At the very least, I hope this helps people know that we exist were here. And also, I like to think that it helps to show some of the complexity and diversity of my community: that we have disagreements, we have different perspectives, we have different talents, we live in different places. Something else that your question made me think of was the question of audience. And I thought about that a lot. Even growing up within the tribe, there was so much just about my own community that I didnt know. And so I try not to be judgmental of what people know, whether theyre Indigenous or not. And thats how I really wanted to approach the book. I would hope that Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers can get something out of it, both in terms of learning things, but also hopefully seeing themselves in the pages and this exploration of figuring out who we are and where we want our community to go. Q. Another part that really resonated with me and I think a lot of Indigenous readers will relate to is the struggle of what does it mean to be Indigenous if you arent living on your land. I was wondering what you hope Indigenous readers will take away from the book in terms of understanding what distance from their land can mean for their identity. A. I hope that Indigenous readers will discover what Ive discovered, which is that there are so many ways to engage with your homelands and your home community, even if you dont live there. I used to think that I was only engaging if I was there with the tribe doing some cultural tribal event or something, and I realized that there are so many other ways of engaging. I dont think any of us are less Indigenous because we live somewhere else. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For a long time I felt like if it wasnt perfect, it wasnt worth it. If it wasnt the perfect ideal of me participating in the tribe, I thought I shouldnt do it. Ultimately what that led to is I just wasnt doing anything because I didnt have as many opportunities to go to these tribal gatherings or participate in tribal politics. And so I just did nothing, and I felt the distance sort of growing over the years. What other people can do is realize that there are all these small ways to engage and to try to embrace those, and not let ideas of what it means to be Indigenous be defined by outsiders, or these big colonial structures like federal recognition, for example, or blood quantum. Q. Why? Whats at stake? Why do you think its important for folks to embrace Indigenous identity and why is it important, particularly at this moment? A. Circling back to what we talked about at the beginning, were not going to be able to address these huge existential crises like climate change if we cant be at least in some way united as a community, as a people. If were always fighting over who belongs and what does it mean to be Indigenous and saying that people are less Indigenous because of XYZ, that takes away our ability to tackle those bigger challenges. Right now were facing these serious challenges and thats what we should be dealing with, so figuring this out is the first step. This article originally appeared in Grist. Grist is a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to telling stories of climate solutions and a just future. Sign up for Grists weekly newsletter here. Learn more at Grist.org Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY), a vocal Democratic supporter of Israel in Congress, said in an interview with journalist Chuck Todd on Sunday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had done irreparable damage to Israels relationship with and support among Democrats, tracing the origin of the breach to Netanyahus public clashes with President Barack Obama. If youre a Democrat, and if youre a Democrat of color and if youre a Black Democrat, you take immense pride in Barack Obama. He represents one of the greatest achievements in politics. We take great pride in his presidency, Torres said. To see a foreign leader visibly disrespect him in the manner that Bibi Netanyahu did, I feel did irreparable damage to the relationship with the Democratic Party. Asked by Todd how he would advise the Israeli government to repair its relationship with the party, Torres offered no suggestions, repeating that it feels like the damage may be irreparable. He added that support for the U.S.-Israel relationship is eroding, and anyone who denies it is ignoring the numbers. (Torres subsequently told Jewish Insider that the irreparable damage was referring to the relationship between Netanyahu and the Democratic Party, not the relationship between Israel and the Democratic Party.) Torres also said that he has no real relationship with the Israeli government, despite his support for the Jewish state, and said that his conversations are usually general and high-level, and do not yield useful information. I do not consider myself having a good relationship with the Israeli government, Torres said. He said Netanyahu should have been able to disagree with Obama, but when you inject yourself into partisan politics and put your thumb on the scale in favor of one political party, that sets a dangerous precedent, and I believe that the consequences of geopolitical calculation continue to reverberate to this day. Netanyahu and Obama split publicly over the U.S.s nuclear deal with Iran, and Netanyahu accepted an invitation from then-Speaker of the House John Boehner, a Republican, to address Congress to condemn the deal. He said that the U.S.-Israel relationship requires bipartisanship and that if you politicize it, youre not a friend of the relationship, youre an enemy. Torres said Netanyahu had made a terrible mistake and that there is a legitimate perception that the present Israeli government is just aligned with the Republican Party. The Democratic congressman also called for an end to the war in Gaza, the release of hostages, increased humanitarian aid to Palestinians, new Palestinian governance in Gaza and efforts to build on the Abraham Accords, arguing that warnings from Israeli reporters about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza must be heeded. Hes one of several pro-Israel Democrats who have grown more critical of the Israeli governments handling of the humanitarian situation in Gaza in recent days. Additionally, some congressional Republicans have warned that Israels conduct is risking American support. Torres argued that the impact of the war for Israel has been mixed even as it has severely degraded Iran and its proxies and emerged from Oct. 7 stronger and reestablished deterrence, it has lost significant support in the United States. The New York congressman has also recently raised eyebrows with his defenses of Democratic New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani though Torres has not endorsed Mamdani and said that Mamdani must address real concerns in the Jewish community. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Iowa State Auditor and democratic candidate for Iowa Governor, Rob Sand, made a campaign stop in Sioux City on Monday. He talked to a crowd of around 70 people at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 231, located at 5001 Harbor Drive. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sand is currently one of three democratic candidates running for his partys nomination in the 2026 election cycle. Before his campaign event, KCAU 9 spoke with Sand about whats hes been hearing from voters in the Siouxland area. I think people are very much concerned about the state of the economy. We are 49th in the country for economic growth, according to the Trump Administration, and 48th for personal income growth. People are worried about cancer; we are the number one state when it comes to the growth rate for cancer, right? So, were literally losing the contests that you want to win and winning the ones that you want to lose, after 10 years of one-party control in the state of Iowa, said Sand. Sand said there needs to be more bipartisanship in Iowa. He will continue his 100 town hall tour on August 4 by making stopes in six counties. On the Republican side of the ballot, theres currently two official candidates and two people who have launched exploratory committees to consider possible campaigns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. WARREN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) Robert Allen Hayes, known affectionately as Bob to his friends and family, was called to his eternal home on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the age of 70. Born on May 23, 1955, in Fairmont, West Virginia, Bob was a man whose life was characterized by his kind heart, his humorous spirit, and his friendly demeanor. Find obituaries from your high school Bobs journey began as the beloved son of Carl Hayes and Delores Eileen Suppa. His father preceded him in death, as did his dear wife, Jeanette Thompson; his daughter, Lisa Lynette Hayes; and his brother, Charles Neal Suppa. He was lovingly raised alongside his siblings, Velinda Lee (Bunner) Korbut, Tawnya Lynn Hayes Price, and his stepfather, Robert Neal Suppa. Bobs legacy continues through his cherished daughters, Tammy Jean Hayes Zogran and Travis Jay Hayes; his many adoring grandchildren; great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews who were touched by his generosity and love. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After graduating from North Marion High School, Bob proudly served his country for three years in the Unite States Army, where he honed his skills as a seamstress. Upon returning to civilian life, he dedicated many years to working in the coal mines, which was a testament to his strong work ethic and resilience. Bob also served as a secretary guard and a sewing machine repairman, always ensuring that those around him were met with excellence and a warm smile. Bobs faith was the cornerstone of his life. As a devout Christian, he lived out the principles of his belief through acts of kindness and a commitment to his community. His love for God was evident in his daily interactions and the way he cherished his family and friends. An avid motorcycle enthusiast, Bobs sense of adventure and freedom was most apparent when he was riding his beloved bike. Painting ceramics brought out his artistic side, while his love for singing karaoke showcased his joyful and entertaining personality. Bob also found great joy in dressing up as Santa Claus, riding his motorcycle to the delight of children during the holiday season, embodying the spirit of giving and love. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bobs absence will be profoundly felt by all who knew him, yet his memory will be celebrated and cherished. His laughter, kindness, and the countless moments shared with him will continue to inspire and comfort his loved ones. As we bid farewell to Robert Allen Hayes, we hold on to the assurance that he is now at peace in the loving embrace of his Creator, leaving a legacy of love and joy that will never be forgotten. Arrangements are being handled by the Borowski Funeral Services & Oak Meadow Cremation Services. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert, please visit our floral store. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A restaurant that serves up chicken wings and plenty of tunes is celebrating five years of business Saturday on Niles Street. Rock & Wings is ready to celebrate five years at 2858 Niles St. Aug. 2, with performances by Mento Buru and Grupo Feliz, according to organizers. Admission is free to get inside and watch Latin reggae and old school funk bands light up the night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DJ Mickey Rock is scheduled to spin dance music in between sets. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show goes until 11 p.m. All ages are welcome and if you are interested in reservations, call 661-432-7748. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) Rockys Ace Hardware is hosting its annual Fill the Bucket fundraiser, encouraging the community to support children in need. This fundraiser is set to take place this Friday through Sunday at participating Rockys locations. Customers are invited to visit the store and donate $5 to get a limited-edition five-gallon bucket, which they can then use to receive 20% off nearly everything in the store that they can fit inside the bucket (some exclusions apply). Six men from Belchertown reach summit of a famous mountain in Africa Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rockys says that 100% of these donations go directly to Childrens Miracle Network hospitals, which provide essential critical care to children across the country. This fundraiser is a fun, tangible way for customers to support local childrens hospitals and families facing some of lifes toughest challenges, said Rocco Falcone, president of Rockys Ace Hardware. Every dollar makes a difference, and this event is a great example of neighbors helping neighbors. The Fill the Bucket fundraiser has served as one of the most popular initiatives that Rockys has implemented over the years to help support causes within the community. The company has participated in many community-giving programs since opening its first location in Springfield in 1926, and has since expanded to 50 locations across nine states. Rockys Ace Hardware has 16 locations in Massachusetts, including in Springfield, Westfield, East Longmeadow, and South Hadley. To find a store near you to participate in the fundraiser, visit Rockys.com. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Five grooming gang victims have come forward to claim that they were abused by police. One victim claimed she was raped from the age of 12 by a serving South Yorkshire Police officer who threatened to hand her back to her abusers if she did not comply. Three retired officers have been arrested on suspicion of historic sex offences dating back 30 years as part of a new criminal investigation into the involvement of the police in the Rotherham grooming scandal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to the BBC, one of the alleged victims said she was raped by a South Yorkshire Police officer in the back of a marked car. She said she had been abused by an Asian grooming gang, and the officer said he would hand her back to the men if she complained. She said: He knew where we used to hang out, he would request either oral sex or rape us in the back of the police car. In a world where you were being abused so much, being raped once [each time] was a lot easier than multiple rapes and I think he knew that. The woman claims she was later forced into an abortion when she was 15, leading a social worker to contact the police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But she said the officer who turned up to interview her was the same one who had been abusing her and he then ripped up her statement in front of her. Another woman claimed that when she was a child, she would hear a police officer having sex with girls in exchange for drugs and money. Another said she witnessed a police officer supplying class A drugs to members of a grooming gang. Three other women, who have provided written testimonies, also claim they were beaten up by police officers when they were children, including once in a police cell. At least 1,400 girls were abused, mainly by Pakistani grooming gangs, in Rotherham between 1997 and 2013. Details of the shocking abuse emerged in 2014 with the publication of Prof Alexis Jays report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The latest witness statements form part of a civil claim being brought against South Yorkshire Police in an attempt to secure compensation for the victims. One of the women who is part of the claim has alleged that she was sexually abused by hundreds of men over five years by the age of 11. She said two police officers also sexually abused her, with one repeatedly tracking her down in his police car in Rotherham town centre. South Yorkshire Police has said it now has a dedicated team of detectives working on the case, who are pursuing all lines of inquiry. But Prof Jay told the BBC she believed the criminal investigation should be run by an independent police force or His Majestys Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement David Greenwood, of Switalskis Solicitors, which is representing the claimants, said he was concerned that officers from the force could be burying evidence or just not finding evidence deliberately, because they may know some of those involved in the allegations. It comes after Sir Keir Starmer bowed to pressure earlier this year and commissioned a national inquiry into the sexual exploitation of thousands of girls. The Prime Ministers about-turn followed a report by Baroness Casey, which found that police and council leaders had covered up the scale of Asian grooming gangs because they feared being called racist. In her 200-page report, Lady Casey accused officials of being in denial about the scale of the grooming gangs problem and said lessons had not been learnt from crimes committed in Rotherham a decade ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also disclosed that asylum seekers and foreign nationals have been involved in a significant proportion of live police investigations. The scandal re-entered the spotlight at the start of this year when Elon Musk, the tech billionaire, started repeatedly criticising Sir Keir and demanding a nationwide inquiry. In a statement the law firm representing the alleged victims said they had no faith in the force to investigate the allegations. A spokesman said: For years SYP resisted our requests for an investigation into the alleged criminality of police officers, despite us providing them with the accounts of survivors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those that have suffered abuse in Rotherham have no faith that SYP will do a thorough job of investigating alleged abuse by their own officers. In addition, dealing with SYP is re-traumatising for them. Many of our clients refuse to report offences to SYP because they do not think they will be believed and because they were treated so badly in the past. This investigation must be handed over to an independent police force to ensure that survivors feel confident enough to come forward. The accounts we have heard, which we expect are only a fraction of the full scale of abuse, are utterly harrowing. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. When Julien Giraud Jr. was federally indicted on drug and gun charges last year in New Jersey, he had little reason to think his case would double as a challenge to the lawfulness of Alina Habbas position as U.S. attorney. But that challenge is now playing out, as the defendant argues that the Trump ally isnt lawfully serving in her position and therefore the office she purports to lead lacks the authority to prosecute him. Whether or not she is lawfully in the role of U.S. attorney could have vast implications beyond this one case. The challenge involves rather technical issues about federal law over vacancies and how they can be filled, so take a deep breath before taking in the following background. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Habba had been temporarily serving as U.S. attorney since March, but her temporary period expired this month without her being confirmed by the Senate to serve full time. New Jerseys federal judges used their legal authority to appoint a different prosecutor from the office, Desiree Leigh Grace, as the new interim U.S. attorney. But the Trump administration moved to fire Grace. President Donald Trump also withdrew his nomination of Habba, she technically resigned, and the administration then reinstalled her through another mechanism to keep her in the job as acting U.S. attorney. Got all that? I told you it was technical. So whats Girauds argument? In a motion filed Sunday ahead of his trial set for next week, his lawyer Thomas Mirigliano wrote that Habbas reappointment violated federal law because the fact that Trump submitted Habbas nomination to the Senate prevents her from serving in an acting capacity, regardless of whether Trump subsequently withdrew her nomination or not. He argued that being prosecuted by an unauthorized U.S. attorney undermines his due process rights, so he asked U.S. District Judge Edward Kiel, the New Jersey judge handling his case, to dismiss the indictment or at least to block Habba or any prosecutor acting under her authority from prosecuting him. The New York Times reported that federal court proceedings throughout New Jersey were abruptly canceled on Monday because of uncertainty over Habbas authority, citing Girauds case and others. Habba is one of several lawyers who represented Trump in his personal capacity and have gone on to high-ranking Justice Department posts during his second term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Giraud filed his motion, the chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit, which covers New Jersey and nearby states, tapped Pennsylvanias chief federal trial judge for the states middle district, Matthew Brann, to preside over the matter. The chief circuit judge made the move under a law that says chief circuit judges may, in the public interest, designate and assign temporarily any district judge of the circuit to hold a district court in any district within the circuit. The 3rd Circuit, incidentally, is the appeals court to which another Trump personal lawyer-turned-Trump DOJ lawyer, Emil Bove, is awaiting Senate confirmation. Several whistleblowers have come forward against him to raise concerns about his conduct at DOJ and his truthfulness to lawmakers at his confirmation hearing last month. Opposing Girauds motion on Tuesday, the DOJ maintained that Habba is lawfully in her role and that even if she werent, there would be no basis for dismissing this indictment or prohibiting everyone in the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of New Jersey (USAO-NJ) from participating in this prosecution. The DOJ asked that the motion be denied and the case be transferred back to Kiel in New Jersey. Brann ordered a status conference with the parties to take place Tuesday afternoon at 3:00 p.m., so the direction in which the matter is headed could become clearer later Tuesday. Whatever happens at the trial court level might not be the last word on this consequential and thorny issue, so this could be just the start of drawn-out litigation. Subscribe to the Deadline: Legal Newsletter for expert analysis on the top legal stories of the week, including updates from the Supreme Court and developments in the Trump administrations legal cases. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Senate Democrats received a massive shot in the arm on Monday as former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper (D) announced he is a go for the states high-stakes Senate race, delivering the party its biggest recruiting victory of the cycle and the hope that it could lead to more in the coming months. Speculation surrounding a possible Cooper bid hit a fever pitch in recent weeks after Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) announced that he would not be running for reelection. Cooper made the news official on Monday morning, becoming the biggest recruiting win of the 2026 cycle to date for either side and marking an opening salvo for a party that has struggled throughout the year to respond to President Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its big, said Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.), who ran the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) during the 2022 and 2024 cycles. Its a huge win. Were confident hes going to win. He is without question the strongest Democrat that could possibly run in that seat. The two-term governor has held high favorable ratings in the Tar Heel State throughout his two terms and at the end of his tenure in Raleigh. He has also won all six of his statewide bids, which Democrats are quick to note. The race is shaping up to be Cooper versus Michael Whatley, the chairman of the Republican National Committee and former North Carolina GOP chair. Trump endorsed Whatley after his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, decided against a run. But Coopers entrance also resonates outside North Carolina for Democrats, as they attempt to grab the steering wheel of a cycle that historically could move in their direction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Polls are already indicating that Democrats have the upper hand on messaging over the GOPs big, beautiful bill which Tillis notably voted against shortly after he announced his retirement. Its a real winnable seat for us, and I think its the first of many really good signs in this electorate, said Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) about Coopers entrance. Democrats are seeing a lot of really good candidates starting to step in and I think theres a lot of possibility. Coopers announcement could also make mark on Democrats recruitment efforts in other key states. With North Carolina settled, attention now shifts to New England as Democrats try to nudge Maine Gov. Janet Mills (D) toward challenging Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mills has given few outward signs that she is itching to run against Collins, who is expected to seek a sixth term in office. But Democrats widely believe Coopers decision to take the plunge only increases the chances that Mills will do the same. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) told The Hill that he is optimistic that Mills will follow Coopers lead. Im hopeful, said Kelly, who was once himself a top Democratic recruit. Democrats are also quick to note that the two are friends, stemming from their parallel gubernatorial tenures. I think it shows that he believes that its going to be a good Democratic year. I know that helps, Peters said. Candidates who have a desire to serve in the Senate if youre a Democrat, this next year would be the time to run. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But while Democrats are riding a Cooper-induced high, ultimately winning back the Senate majority in 2026 remains a difficult row to hoe. To flip the upper chamber, Democrats need to win back four seats next year and that involves a lot of things breaking in their way. Collins remains a major speed bump for any Democrats, especially after she handily dispatched with her general election opponent in 2020 despite trailing in polling throughout most of the cycle. But recent difficulties are raising hopes on the left that she may retire altogether. That would easily be the biggest recruiting loss for the GOP, which already saw Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) decide against a Senate bid in the Peach State earlier this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On top of the North Carolina and Maine contests, the minority party also needs to flip two additional seats, with Texas, Ohio and Iowa three solidly red states fronting that list. Former Rep. Colin Allred (D-Texas), who lost to Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) in 2024, is the leading Democratic candidate in the Lone Star State, where Democrats are praying that state Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) can defeat Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) in an already-nasty primary. As for Ohio, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and other Democratic leaders are lobbying hard for former Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), who was defeated in 2024 after three terms in the Senate, to run against Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio), who was appointed to replace Vice President Vance. Brown is debating whether to run for the upper chamber or seek the governors mansion. Finally, questions are swirling around whether Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) will call it quits after two terms. Iowa state Sen. Zach Wahls (D) and state Rep. J.D. Scholten (D) have both launched campaigns on the Democratic side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nabbing the requisite amount of seats is considered a significant reach at this point. I tell folks whove never worked on or run a campaign that theres just a constellation of factors that go into who wins and loses, and youre only in control of a handful of those factors, said John LaBombard, a former top aide to former Sens. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.) and Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) and a Democratic strategist with ROKK Solutions. You kind of always need the stars to align to win a competitive race. Then you really need something more approaching a miracle to flip control of a chamber, and in our case I think we might need something on par of two miracles to get us across the finish line, LaBombard said. I am still pretty skeptical that thats possible. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Roy Cooper raised $3.4 million in the first 24 hours of his Senate campaign a record-breaking sum for the former North Carolina governor in one of the most competitive upcoming Senate races. The fundraising haul, shared first with POLITICO, includes more than $2.6 million raised directly to Coopers campaign account, with 95 percent of those donations totaling $100 or less, according to his team. The former governor raised another $900,000 into joint fundraising committees with the party, which allows for bigger contributions. Cooper is likely to face Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley, who will launch his own Senate bid in the coming days with the backing of President Donald Trump. Republican Sen. Thom Tillis announced his plans not to seek reelection last month, after clashing with Trump over passage of his megabill that Tillis voted against. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Carolina represents Democrats best offensive opportunity for the Senate, a battleground state the former governor has won twice with Trump on the ticket. Cooper, the partys top recruit, was expected to bring in big cash for the race, after growing a national fundraising network during his stint as Democratic Governors Association chair. Whatley, who took over the RNC last year, has built his own national donor relationships, raising expectations that the race will be one of the most expensive in 2026. Coopers first-day total cracks a Senate Democratic candidate record set by Amy McGrath, a fundraising juggernaut, who nonetheless failed to unseat Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell in 2020. McGrath raised $2.5 million in her first 24 hours as a candidate. Former North Carolina Gov. Roy Coopers (D) Senate campaign announced it raised more than $3.4 million in the 24 hours since launching Monday. Coopers campaign said it raised $2.6 million for his Senate campaign plus an additional $900,000 for the Democratic Party. Ninety-five percent of the individual donations that came into the campaign in the first 24 hours were $100 or less, according to the campaign. The former governors campaign called the haul a testament to Coopers strong and deep support across North Carolina. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I have thought on it and prayed about it, and I have decided: I want to serve as your next United States senator, because, even now, I still believe our best days are ahead, Cooper said in his campaign launch video. Cooper jumped into the race for North Carolinas open seat Monday in what has been called a recruitment win for Democrats. Sen. Thom Tillis (R) announced last month that he would not seek another term for office, opening the seat. The field on the Democratic side of the aisle has cleared for Cooper, with former Rep. Wiley Nickel (D-N.C.) dropping his bid Tuesday. It was an honor to work alongside Gov. Cooper in the state Senate and in Congress, Nickel said in a statement. Ive seen firsthand his steady, bipartisan leadership. He listens, he shows up, and he gets things done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A source familiar told The Hill that Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley is set to launch a bid for the seat. The source said President Trump has given his blessing for Whatley to run for the seat after his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, decided against launching a campaign of her own. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) Former North Carolina governor Roy Cooper raised more than $3.4 million within the first day of launching his U.S. Senate campaign, a spokesperson said Tuesday. Cooper, a Democrat who served two terms as governor from 2017 to 2025, officially announced his 2026 Senate campaign on Monday after months of speculation. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Former Governor Roy Cooper announces run for US Senate seat in 2026 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Coopers campaign, 95% of the individual donations were small-dollar contributions in the amount of $100 or less. $2.6 million was raised for the campaign, and $900,000 was raised for the Democratic Party through joint fundraising committees. The record-breaking enthusiasm for Roy Coopers Senate launch is a testament to his strong and deep support across North Carolina, campaign manager Jeff Allen said in a statement. Roy Cooper has a long record of being an independent voice for our state and getting real results for middle-class families by expanding health care for 670,000 people, eliminating $4 billion in medical debt for 2 million North Carolinians, and creating more than 600,000 jobs as governor, he continued in his statement. The North Carolina Senate race is expected to be among the most competitive in the 2026 midterm elections. Incumbent Republican Thom Tillis is not seeking re-election, leaving the race for the seat open. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cooper is currently unopposed for the Democratic nomination following the withdrawal of former congressman Wiley Nickel on Tuesday. Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley, who has been endorsed by President Donald Trump, is the frontrunner for the GOP nomination. Democrats have not won a U.S. Senate race in North Carolina since 2008. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. On the morning of June 25, the crackling sound of machinegun fire startled Hamisa and her family as they were having breakfast in Sudans North Kordofan state. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had just stormed her village, Kazkeel, on motorbikes, as they burned huts and farms and fired artillery at women and children fleeing for their lives. Hamisa, 60, fled with her seven teenage children, siblings and mother. As they made a run for it, she saw young men from her village picking up guns to confront the RSF. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were outgunned and outnumbered. While we were escaping, we saw the [RSF] kill six young men in front of us, she told Al Jazeera, solemnly. The entire village escaped when the RSF arrived. We left with nothing but the clothes on our backs until we reached the nearest, safest village, she added. An epicentre of conflict Sudans regular army, known as the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), has fought a bloody civil war against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since April 2023. The conflict produced the worst humanitarian crisis in the world by most measures before the RSFs recent attacks in North Kordofan, a strategic region in southern Sudan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the last several weeks, the RSF has raided villages and scorched families to death. They have also shot and killed pregnant women and children, according to the Emergency Lawyers, a local monitor. The violence has pushed tens of thousands of people to seek refuge in SAF-controlled el-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan. Hamisa and her family are struggling to survive after reaching the city on July 15. Like most displaced people, she is living in an overcrowded hut with barely enough food and clean water. In addition, those displaced fear the RSF is trying to reimpose a siege on el-Obeid and then invade the city, a concern shared by analysts and relief workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People all around us are still traumatised by the RSF. The children with us are very scared. They think the RSF will enter [el-Obeid], Hamisa told Al Jazeera. A siege would exacerbate the already catastrophic humanitarian crisis in el-Obeid and eliminate a key SAF logistics hub. The SAF relies on el-Obeid to carry out air strikes against the RSF in the western region of Darfur, as well as to keep RSF fighters a safe distance away from the capital Khartoum, according to Nathaniel Raymond, who follows conflict dynamics in Sudan as head of the Humanitarian Research Lab at the Yale School of Public Health. If SAF loses el-Obeid they would lose a lot of their ability to project force outside of Khartoum, he told Al Jazeera. A map showing areas under control by the RSF and SAF in and around the strategic city of el-Obeid in North Kordofan [Interactive/Al Jazeera] Strategic hub Back in February, the SAF managed to break the RSFs chokehold siege over el-Obeid, providing much-needed relief to its units and fighters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement El-Obeid is located some 529 kilometres (329 miles) from North Darfurs capital el-Fasher, where SAF forces and hundreds of thousands of civilians are currently besieged by the RSF. Any hope of carrying out a rescue mission to break the siege requires that the SAF maintain control over el-Obeid, explained Raymond. He added that holding on to the city would also protect Khartoum from being overwhelmed by RSF drone strikes. Yet the looming onset of Sudans rainy season accompanied by heavy fog and preceding heavy rainfall could give the RSF an opportunity to mount a major assault. The rainy season is arriving in Sudan late this year, but forecasts suggest it could start in the coming days or weeks, said Raymond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SAF pilots look out the window of their planes [when dropping bombs]. They do not have laser guidance [because they fly old planes]. When the clouds come, itll be an operational advantage for the RSF, Raymond told Al Jazeera. [The start of the rainy season] is the sweet spot, he added. The roads arent saturated yet and the valleys arent full [of rain], so the RSF will have cloud cover without any impact on their manoeuvrability. Sudanese soldiers from the Rapid Support Forces unit, led by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, the deputy head of the military council, secure the area where Dagalo attends a military-backed tribes rally, in the East Nile province, Sudan, on June 22, 2019 [Hussein Malla/AP] Any attack on el-Obeid would be catastrophic for the roughly 137,000 people seeking refuge in the city, a figure disclosed to Al Jazeera by Emmanuel Ufot, the director of Emergency Programs in North Sudan for Mercy Corps, one of the few global relief agencies active in North Kordofan. He added that civilians would have to flee to Kosti in White Nile state if the RSF attacks el-Obeid, since all other exit points would be besieged and closed off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kosti is about 265 kilometres (165 miles) away from el-Obeid. We have to factor in the women, babies, elderly and disabled. These are people that will not be able to run when there is a lot of conflict, Ufot told Al Jazeera. No safe haven Another pressing concern is the severe lack of humanitarian relief for civilians, according to relief workers. Ufot from Mercy Corps said that only about 5 percent of the displaced in el-Obeid have a sturdy roof over their head because they are taking shelter in a school. The rest live in huts or without any shelter at all. With the rainy season coming, flooding and overcrowding could lead to the rapid spread of preventable diseases like cholera, a waterborne illness that has already infected tens of thousands of people in Sudan. Children are particularly vulnerable to cholera. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The RSF is compounding the crisis by firing drones and heavy artillery at civilian targets such as homes, basic services like power stations, and hospitals, according to Yousef Hederby, a local volunteer. El-Obeid is subjected to a lot of artillery shelling [from the RSF]. And the shelling hits civilian homes and residential areas, Hederby told Al Jazeera. He added that four people were killed and some 20 were injured by the indiscriminate shelling in mid-July. He noted the violence came after the RSF killed more than 300 people in villages located near el-Obeid in North Kordofan between July 12 and July 15. Al Jazeera sent written questions to the RSFs press office asking the group to respond to credible reports that it has intentionally targeted civilians and carried out mass killings in recent weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The RSF did not respond before publication. Hamisa, the elderly woman who already survived one mass killing, fears she will not survive a second if the RSF enters el-Obeid. She told Al Jazeera that the ongoing war in Sudan is worse than the civil war in the 1990s, referring to the north-south conflict that eventually divided Sudan into two countries in 2011. There were limits to the civil war in the 1990s. Our village wasnt in a lot of danger at the time, she told Al Jazeera. But this war has spread to every village and area in Sudan. There is a safe place in Kordofan, she added. We are all very scared. Beach wardens have launched a desperate appeal to dog owners after "deeply upsetting scenes" damaged a rare seabird colony. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) report that a flourishing colony of little terns on the Norfolk coast has been disturbed by dogs who were allowed off their leads. PC Chris Shelley, Norfolk Police's Rural Crime Officer, said: "This reckless behaviour around vulnerable nesting birds is not only distressing to witness, but also completely illegal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We urge dog owners to keep their pets on leads around wildlife to avoid disturbing protected species and risking prosecution." The RSPB is not naming the location of the colony beyond saying it is on the east coast of Norfolk but say it is home to around 600 adults and between 400-500 chicks. Its volunteers and conservationists have reported a strong breeding season this year, with just weeks to go until the last chicks are due to fledge and take flight. However, two incidents of dogs running through the colony and attacking chicks last week have put that success at risk. Steve Rowland, the RSPB's area manager for Norfolk, said: "We are grateful to the many dog walkers who keep their dogs on leads where there are birds nesting on the ground, during the sensitive summer months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But even the gentlest family pet can cause distress or destruction to birds when running off-lead through a nesting colony. "Last week, our wardens witnessed a number of deeply upsetting scenes involving uncontrolled dogs running through the colony, disturbing nests, picking up chicks in their mouths and killing at least four chicks that we know of. A sign on the east Norfolk beach appeals for owners to keep their dogs on a lead [RSPB] "Despite wardens getting to the scene immediately, sadly it was too late to save the chicks," Mr Rowland added. "The adult birds were also panicked and fled their nests, which can leave chicks vulnerable to other predators. "It's devastating for the colony at such a critical time, after such a successful summer." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far this year the RSPB has counted 83 little terns fledging the colony, with more than 250 chicks set to fly the nest soon. The birds are amber listed on the UK's Birds of Conservation Concern, with the RSPB estimating there are around 1,900 breeding pairs in the UK. Norfolk Police is encouraging any witnesses to the incidents to contact them. Follow Norfolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. Related stories Internet links RUIDOSO, N.M. (KRQE) Ruidoso, New Mexico, has endured a lot of heartache lately. After enduring destructive wildfires, the mountain community is facing an uphill battle of recovery after deadly flash flooding killed a man and two children. The Rio Ruidoso surged to a record-breaking 20 feet, five feet higher than last years record, catching even prepared emergency crews off guard. This week on the New Mexico News Insiders Podcast, Chris and Gabby speak with Village Fire Chief Cade Hall, a lifelong Ruidoso resident, about what happened, the heartbreak of not being able to save everyone, and how the community is bracing for more rain. With recovery setbacks, tourism threatened, and continued risks, will people rebuild? Is the village re-thinking its alert system? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chief Hall addresses those questions and more in the full interview above. Stay informed with the latest news by subscribing to the New Mexico News Insiders podcast wherever you listen. Download new episodes of the New Mexico News Insiders every Tuesday, starting around 5:30 a.m., Mountain time. Episodes are available on most podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Podbean, among others. You can also watch our podcasts in video form, both on-air and online. Tune in to an abbreviated version of the New Mexico News Insiders podcast on broadcast television every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. on Fox New Mexico. Full video episodes are posted on KRQEs YouTube page at youtube.com/krqenews13. Having trouble finding the show? Try searching your favorite podcast player with the term KRQE or New Mexico News Insiders (without the quotes). You can also use the links above to find the podcast on each service or listen to the audio player at the top of this post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have a question, comment, or suggestion for who should be interviewed on the podcast, let us know! Email your hosts at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Jenks High School students walk out of the Jenks Public Schools Math and Science Center on Nov. 13. All public schools in the state are now subject to a new rule governing school counselors' work time. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice) OKLAHOMA CITY A new Oklahoma rule places strict limitations on how much time public school counselors can spend on non-counseling tasks, but some have raised concerns of whether the regulation is too vague to have its desired effect. The rule requires school counselors to spend at least 80% of their work time on direct and indirect counseling services that have an impact on student growth in the areas of academic advisement, college and career, and life skills and wellness, according to its text. The remainder of their time could be spent on program planning and school support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Oklahoma State Board of Education and the state Legislature approved the rule this year. State Superintendent Ryan Walters, who proposed the rule, said the goal is to ensure school counselors arent saddled with administrative duties that distract from their primary responsibility of counseling students. The Oklahoma School Counselor Association is supportive of the 80% concept, said Chelsea Hinkle, president of the associations board. That work-time ratio is what the American School Counselor Association recommends as a national best practice. But, the lack of specificity in Oklahomas rule has caused uncertainty among school counselors in the state, Hinkle said. The rule gives few examples of tasks that count as direct and indirect services, it doesnt define work time, and it doesnt explain how districts will be held accountable if they dont uphold the 80% target. Because of this vagueness, she said, Oklahoma counselors are wondering whether schools will classify non-counseling tasks, like administering state testing, as direct services if they involve face-to-face contact with students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think I would say it leaves us curious, Hinkle said. It leaves us curious to how its going to play out. I think it leaves us curious to see how districts interpret and apply this, curious to see what guidance (the Oklahoma State Department of Education) has, what that looks like. Were just kind of waiting. I personally am cautiously, very cautiously, optimistic. The Education Department, through its communications office, said academic advising, mental health and wellness support, and career planning are examples of counseling services that could make up 80% of a school counselors work time. State Superintendent Ryan Walters, pictured at an Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting Jan. 28, said school counseling services must be protected. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice) However, the agency did not answer questions asking how it will define that work time, whether its a specific number of hours in a day, the number of days each week, or total hours or days out of the school year. Districts will have to submit a comprehensive school counseling plan to the state Education Department to ensure quality implementation, spokesperson Madison Cercy said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency also referred to a link giving general information on school counseling programs, and noted it offers professional learning opportunities to district staff for further training. Hinkle estimated she spends about 70% of her time on direct and indirect counseling services at the Oklahoma City public school where she works. Her direct services include one-on-one meetings with students, small-group counseling and classroom instruction. Counselors also teach life skills, address absenteeism issues and check if students basic needs are being met at home, Hinkle said. Indirect services are part of her job, too, such as calling parents, making a referral for outside therapeutic services and meeting with a teacher about a students behavior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Administering state tests, substitute teaching, running a gifted and talented program, and developing 504 plans for students with disabilities are common non-counseling duties many counselors are assigned to do, Hinkle said. Several of these tasks, along with clerical work, are among the activities the American School Counselor Association deems inappropriate for counselors. One thing that school counselors believe to their core is each and every student deserves access to a school counseling program, and its really hard to make sure each and every single one of your students has access when youre doing 700 other things, Hinkle said. Walters agreed that school counselors, rather than shouldering administrative work, should be allowed to focus on the central elements of their job, like helping students work through mental health issues or plan for a future career. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I do believe if somebody wants to be a school counselor they want to help kids in these ways, Walters said during a June 26 meeting of the Oklahoma State Board of Education. Thats their background. Thats what theyre there to do. Thats why its a separate certification. Theyre not a principal. Theyre not a vice principal. Theyre a school counselor. If were going to use these titles and this certification, we need to protect that role. Neighboring states have been far more specific when implementing similar work-time rules for school counselors. A Texas state law clarifies that administering tests cannot qualify as a direct or indirect counseling service. Like Oklahoma, the Lone Star State requires counselors to spend 80% of their work time on the counseling program at their school. Arkansas goes above the nationally recommended ratio, requiring 90% of school counselors work time to focus on counseling services. The Arkansas rule gives definitions for direct and indirect services, and it outlines specific administrative activities that can make up no more than 10% of counselors work time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Oklahomas rule takes effect, Edmond Public Schools is looking at the potential impact, but its not rearranging staff at this time, spokesperson Jeff Bardach said. The district of 25,700 students is waiting for further guidance from the state Education Department before making any changes. School counselors in Norman Public Schools already spend 80% of their time providing direct and indirect services to students, spokesperson Courtney Scott said. This new rule reinforces that their time should not be overcommitted to administrative tasks such as coordinating state testing, managing 504 plans, or taking on other duties that fall outside their professional role, she said. Counselors should be engaged in face-to-face instruction or communication with students, as well as with teachers and families who support those students. In northwest Oklahoma, Seiling Public Schools Superintendent Kyle Reynolds said hes never had to quantify the percentage of his school counselors time spent on various tasks, but meeting the 80% rule in a small, rural district will be a pretty significant challenge. Seiling Public Schools Superintendent Kyle Reynolds speaks with news media at the state Capitol on Oct. 21 in Oklahoma City. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice) Seiling, a district of 400 students, employs a counselor at its elementary school and another at the secondary school level. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Small districts have fewer employees and therefore rely on counselors for a greater variety of tasks, Reynolds said. Its also a position that, like teachers, has a workforce shortage, so hiring more counselors isnt an easy solution, he said. Without access to more funding or a larger pool of candidates, Reynolds said its difficult to be sure the new rule will benefit students. It just puts you more in a pinch with what you can do with your existing resources, he said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) Several RVs, runners, families, dogs and even someone dressed as Forrest Gump gathered at Bob Lindsey Honda in Peoria for the St. Jude sendoff early Tuesday morning. This is for the Memphis to Peoria Run, a 465-mile run that is embarked on in late July each year, and has been going on for the past 40 years. Honking on their way out, the vehicles exited the car dealership parking lot just after 7 a.m. to head to Tennessee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement JoAnn Emery, a ten-year participant in St. Jude Runs, shared why she takes part in the benefit. No child should die in the dawn of life, Emery said. Its just amazing to bring everybody together for the common good, for the cause. This is my favorite week of the whole summer. Everyone who runs has a reason for it, whether they have a personal story with St. Jude or they are just running to raise money for the cause. Emerys is because of a former student of hers who was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma, which got her started donating to St. Jude. Everybody knows somebody whos been affected by cancer and the struggle that they go through, Emery said. To see a child go through it, the parents would trade places with their kids in a heartbeat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 1982, the race has raised more than $27 million. This year, they are just shy of $900,000 at the time this was published. To learn more about the race, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. "RuPaul's Drag Race UK" alum Pixie Polite says she was mocked, verbally abused, and punched in a London supermarket during what police are treating as a homophobic attack. This isn't the first time Pixie Polite has faced violence in public. In August 2023, she made headlines after a man threatened to stab her with a whisky bottle in South London. 'Drag Race UK' Star Pixie Polite Assaulted In London Tesco The drag performer, who competed on season four of the hit series in 2022, revealed the ordeal on her Instagram Stories, telling fans she was attacked in a Tesco in Colliers Wood on July 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Just got assaulted in Tesco at Colliers Wood. Punched in the back of the neck/head. Sick of this sh-t," she wrote, adding that the encounter began with mocking comments before escalating into verbal abuse and then physical violence. Pixie said police "were surprisingly great" in responding to the attack, and confirmed that CCTV footage, witness statements, and even a photo she took of the alleged assailant will help move the case forward. "When they catch the guy it will be prosecuted," she explained. After the attack, the performer was treated at an Accident and Emergency center for a "general head injury." She later assured fans she had not suffered a concussion, though she was left feeling "a little groggy" the following day. "Majorly appreciate everyone's concern and blown away by the amount of messages I have received," she wrote in a follow-up post on July 29. "Overall, I'm pretty much fine, but I am feeling the same sense of righteous indignation I felt last night. So please enjoy this picture of me looking like a bad a--, while I daydream about justice today." London Police Confirm' Drag Race UK' Star Pixie Polite Assault Under Hate Crime Investigation The Metropolitan Police Service has confirmed the incident is being investigated as a hate crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Police spoke with one victim, a man in his 30s. An investigation has been launched, and the incident is being treated as a hate crime. Enquiries are ongoing. At this stage, no arrests have been made," the statement read. Authorities urged anyone with information to come forward. Pixie Polite Assault Sparks Renewed Concerns Over LGBTQ+ Safety In The UK The latest assault comes amid a wider conversation about LGBTQ+ safety in the UK. Despite a reported 18.7% drop in homophobic hate crimes in London over the past year, incidents on the city's transport network have increased by 34%. Nationwide, sexual orientation-related hate crimes have declined slightly, but many LGBTQ+ stars say harassment and attacks remain a serious concern. 'Drag Race UK' Winner The Vivienne Opens Up On Lasting Trauma After Homophobic Assault In 2023, "Drag Race UK" winner The Vivienne was assaulted at a McDonald's in Liverpool. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As a proud gay man, I have never hidden who I am or edited myself in case of what others may think. However, it shames me to say that, at 31 years of age, for the first time in my life, I am now a lot more conscious of the fact I could be attacked at any moment for simply living my authentic life," The Vivienne said at the time. "I am now constantly second-guessing social situations and feel on edge when I'm travelling alone, passing large groups of men, or even crossing the street to avoid any sort of engagement with people." He added, "This whole situation has made me become hyper-aware of the reality of the discrimination I'm still facing. It's caused me stress, anguish, and ongoing trauma. Luckily, I'm a 6 ft ex-rugby player, who may wear a dress for a living, and can take a punch. I'm just glad it was me." Man Pleads Guilty To Assaulting 'Drag Race UK Winner' The Vivienne The assailant in The Vivienne's case, Alan Whitfield, admitted assault by beating after police confirmed he ran from the scene following the June 16 attack. Prosecutors allege it was a homophobic assault, while Whitfield's defense disputes that claim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, The Vivienne, born James Lee Williams, died earlier this year "from the effects of ketamine use, causing a cardiac arrest." Pixie's incident adds to the growing list of attacks, leaving fans and fellow performers once again calling for stronger protections for the LGBTQ+ community. Russian forces have attacked Ukraine with two Iskander-M ballistic missiles and 37 Shahed loitering munitions and decoy drones of various types since the evening of 28 July. Ukrainian air defence has managed to shoot down 32 drones, but hits have also been recorded. Source: Ukraine's Air Force Quote: "As of 09:00, air defence has downed or suppressed 32 enemy Shahed UAVs (and other types of drones) in the country's north and east. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hits by five UAVs and two missiles have been recorded in three locations, and debris from downed drones fell in two locations." Details: The missiles were launched from Russia's Rostov Oblast and temporarily occupied Crimea, while the drones were launched from the Russian cities of Oryol and Kursk as well as from Hvardiiske in Crimea. Aircraft, anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare units, unmanned systems units and mobile fire groups from Ukraine's defence forces were involved in repelling the attack. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The Russian government has decided to officially close 20 border crossing points with Ukraine established by a 1995 agreement, starting from 1 August. Ukraine's State Border Guard Service has emphasised that all crossing points on the border with the Russian Federation have been officially closed since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. Source: Russian media outlet; a decree signed by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin; a comment to Ukrainska Pravda by Colonel Andrii Demchenko, spokesperson for Ukraine's State Border Guard Service Details: The Russian government's order refers to the closure of border crossings established under the agreement between the Russian and Ukrainian governments dated 8 February 1995. The list includes 13 road and seven railway crossings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's State Border Guard Service responded to this report as follows. Quote from Demchenko: "It is difficult to understand the logic of the Russians: why has the aggressor state decided to announce the closure of several border crossing points with Ukraine in the fourth year of the full-scale war they started? Meanwhile, some of these crossing points are in fact located on the border with Ukraine within the temporarily occupied territories of Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts, which the Russian Federation seized back in 2014 [such as the Donetsk crossing point in Rostov Oblast on the border with Luhansk Oblast ed]. The list also includes crossing points in Russia's Voronezh, Bryansk, Kursk and Belgorod oblasts. In turn, it is worth noting that by a decision of the Ukrainian government, all crossing points on the border with the Russian Federation have been closed since the beginning of the full-scale invasion and no crossing operations are conducted there, particularly in the usual form as people might generally understand it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Meanwhile, Demchenko stressed that Ukraine remains ready to ensure the return of Ukrainian citizens at any section of the border, as was the case, for example, via the Pokrovka crossing point in Sumy Oblast [this route is currently not operational ed.]. "Of course, this also depends on Russia and its willingness to make this possible for Ukrainians," he added. Screenshot of the document Screenshot of the document Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Russia has continued its offensive, killing at least 22 people in Ukraine by launching ballistic missiles and glide bombs into multiple cities despite President Trumps threats to slap sanctions and shorten the timeline for Moscow to agree to a ceasefire. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that 73 cities and villages came under Russias overnight attack, including a hospital in Kamyanske and a correctional facility in the Zaporizhzhia region. Russias military struck the city hospital in Kamyanske, killing three people, including a pregnant woman, according to Zelensky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Late yesterday, near midnight, Russian aircraft dropped bombs on the grounds of a correctional colony in the Zaporizhzhia region, Zelensky said in a Tuesday morning post on social media platform X. It was a deliberate strike, intentional, not accidental. The Russians could not have been unaware that they were targeting civilians in that facility, he added. Many were killed, and another 43 people were wounded, some of them with very severe injuries. Trump said Monday during his trip to Scotland that he would move up the timeline to impose sanctions against Russia to about 10 or 12 days from today, telling reporters that, we just dont see any progress being made. You have bodies lying all over the street. And I say thats not the way to do it. So well see what happens with that. Im very disappointed. Im disappointed in President Putin, the president said, standing alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked about the presidents remarks, Putins press secretary Dmitry Peskov said the Kremlin has taken note of Trumps statement. We remain committed to a peace process to resolve the conflict around Ukraine and to ensure our interests in the course of this settlement, Peskov told reporters on Tuesday, according to Reuters. Trump said in early July that he would slap severe tariffs on Russia if Moscow did not reach a ceasefire with Kyiv within 50 days. The president also signaled the administration would institute a 100 percent secondary tariff, going after countries that do business with Russia. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Russia said on Tuesday it wanted peace in Ukraine hours after mounting attacks that killed at least 25 people, including a 23-year-old pregnant woman and more than a dozen prison inmates. US President Donald Trump on Tuesday twice shortened his deadline for Russia to end its invasion of Ukraine -- now into a fourth year -- or face new sanctions, saying hours after the latest deaths the Kremlin had 10 days to act. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of wilfully targeting a prison in the Zaporizhzhia region, which Russia claims as its own territory, killing 16 people and wounding dozens of others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was a deliberate strike, intentional, not accidental. The Russians could not have been unaware that they were targeting civilians in that facility," Zelensky said on social media in response. The Kremlin denied the claim. "The Russian army does not strike civilian targets," spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, including from AFP. The attacks came hours after Trump said he was cutting the deadline for President Vladimir Putin to halt the war from 50 days to 10-12 days. Hours later, Trump solidified the deadline to 10 days, threatening to impose "tariffs and stuff" and conceding he did not know if the measures would have any effect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump told reporters flying with him back from a visit to Scotland that he had not heard from Putin, adding "It's a shame." After the first deadline from Trump, Peskov said Moscow had "taken note" and that it remained "committed to the peace process to resolve the conflict around Ukraine and secure our interests". - 'War crimes' - Ukraine's justice ministry said Russian forces hit the prison in Bilenke with four glide bombs. Police said 16 inmates were killed and 43 wounded. Bricks and debris and blown out windows were strewn on the ground, according to images released by the ministry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The facility's perimeter was intact and there was no threat that inmates would escape, it added. Rescue workers searched for survivors in pictures released by the region's emergency services. A senior Ukrainian source said that 274 people were serving sentences in the Bilenkivska facility. The source added there were no Russian war prisoners at the centre. Nadiya, a resident of Bilenke, told AFP the attack damaged her house. "At about 10 minutes to six, a neighbour called and said: 'Come quickly, your roof is gone.' Is that normal? Not a single window is intact," the 74-year-old said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ukrainian air force said Russia also launched 37 drones and two missiles overnight, adding that its air defence systems had downed 32 of the drones. One attack targeted a hospital in the town of the Kamyanske in the Dnipropetrovsk region, wounding 22 people. "Putin is rejecting a ceasefire, avoiding a leaders' meeting, and prolonging the war," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga said on social media. "He will only end his terror if we break the spine of his economy," he added, calling on Western allies to consolidate around sanctions on Moscow. - Hospital targeted - Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Three people were killed in the attack, including a pregnant woman. Her name was Diana. She was only 23 years old," Zelensky said. Separate strikes in the eastern Kharkiv region that borders Russia killed six people, regional authorities said. In the southern Russian region of Rostov, a Ukrainian drone attack killed one person, the region's acting governor said. Kyiv has been trying to repel Russia's summer offensive, which has made fresh advances into areas largely spared since the start of the invasion in 2022. The Russian defence ministry claimed fresh advances across the front line on Tuesday, saying its forces had taken two more villages -- one in the Donetsk region, and another in Zaporizhzhia region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prison strike on Tuesday came on the third anniversary of an attack on another detention facility. Ukraine and Russia blamed each other for the night-time strike three years ago on the Olenivka detention centre in Russian-occupied Donetsk, Ukrainian territory claimed by Moscow. Ukraine says dozens of its soldiers who laid down their arms after a long Russian siege of the port city of Mariupol were killed in the attack. burs-jxb/gv At least 25 people have been killed across Ukraine in overnight and early morning Russian air strikes that hit a prison and a hospital, local officials say. They say the deadliest attack was on the Bilenke penitentiary in the southern Zaporizhzhia region, where 16 inmates were killed and more than 50 injured. A separate Russian strike on people queuing for humanitarian aid killed five in the north-eastern Kharkiv region. Three people were killed in the central Dnipropetrovsk region, including a pregnant woman. Another casualty was reported elsewhere in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later on Tuesday, Donald Trump confirmed a deadline of 8 August for Russia to agree a ceasefire, or else face sweeping sanctions. The US president had issued an ultimatum to Moscow on Monday during a visit to the UK, saying he would reduce the 50-day deadline previously issued to Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this month. In response to the overnight strikes on Ukraine, Zelensky said Russia "must be forced to stop the killings and make peace" via "tough" sanctions. In a statement on Tuesday morning, Ukraine's justice ministry said four glide bombs hit the Bilenke penitentiary shortly before midnight, destroying the dining hall, administrative headquarters and quarantine area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It said that more than 50 people were injured, and 44 of them had to be taken to hospital. The ministry had earlier reported 17 inmates were killed but later amended the death toll. Ukraine's human rights commissioner said attacking a prison was a gross violation of humanitarian law as people in detention did not lose their right to life and protection. Russian forces have frequently targeted the front-line region of Zaporizhzhia since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It is one of four south-eastern regions in Ukraine that Russia claims to have annexed since 2022, although Moscow does not fully control any of them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a separate Russian rocket attack on Tuesday morning, five people were killed in the village of Novoplatonivka, Kharkiv region, the local authorities said. The villagers had gathered near a local shop to get humanitarian aid, regional police chief Petro Tokar told Ukraine's Suspilne TV channel. Ukraine's officials later released photos showing bodies lying near a destroyed shop. Another Russian rocket strike hit a hospital in Kamianske, Dnipropetrovsk region, killing three people. A 23-year-old pregnant woman named Diana was among the casualties there, President Zelensky said. In a statement, he accused Russia of killing Ukrainians when a ceasefire "could have long been in place". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier in July, Trump set a 50-day deadline for the Kremlin to reach a truce with Kyiv or risk economic penalties, but the warning has not halted Russia's barrage of strikes. The wave of attacks came as Russia said its troops were pushing deeper into Ukrainian territory. At the weekend, Moscow said its forces had seized the village of Maliivka, weeks after claiming control over their first village in the Dnipropetrovsk region. Ukraine has rejected Russia's claims. Meanwhile, in Russia, officials said Ukraine had launched dozens of drones overnight in the southern Rostov region, killing one person in their car in the town of Salsk and setting fire to a goods train. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another person was reported killed in their car in the border region of Belgorod and his wife was wounded. More on the war in Ukraine The Russian Italmas drone has turned into a real menace for Sumy. This drone is being successfully tested in the city by the Russians, and the knowledge gained there will probably be applied to other areas. Source: Serhii Beskrestnov, alias Flash, a consultant specialising in military radio technologies, on social media Quote from Beskrestnov: "The Russians have actually established a test site there [in Sumy ed.] for trying out this UAV. And dont doubt it, they will use the experience on other fronts." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The consultant explained that Italmas is not the same as the Kub drone, which soldiers frequently mistake it for. The front of this UAV has a propeller. Beskrestnov noted that Italmas transmits an analogue picture to the pilot controlling it. This can be disrupted by an EW system targeting video suppression on the 3.3 GHz range. "But we dont do it. Perhaps we should begin to think globally about creating a solution to protect frontline cities?" the specialist concluded. Background: Previously, the expert highlighted the drones use in strikes on Sumy. On 24 July, Flash posted a photo of one such UAV with the caption: "This is what attacked Sumy today." Open sources suggest that the drone was developed in 2023, bearing the code name Izdeliye 54 ("Product No 54") and serving as a simplified version of the Shahed-136 drone, which Russians deploy to target Ukrainian cities. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Russia launched a missile attack on a military training facility of Ukraine's Ground Forces on July 29, killing at least three soldiers and injuring another 18. The attack left three people dead and 18 wounded as of 9:30 p.m., Ukraine's Ground Forces reported via Telegram. Emergency services are currently at work on the scene. "Despite the security measures taken, unfortunately, it was not possible to completely avoid casualties among the personnel," the Ground Forces said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An official investigation into the causes of the personnel losses has been launched, the military said. A commission led by the head of the Military Law Enforcement Service has also been set up to investigate the attack. "If it's found that the actions or inaction of officials led to the deaths and injuries of military personnel, those responsible will be held accountable," the Ground Forces said. Military leadership is also implementing "additional security measures" to safeguard the lives of soldiers during Russian strikes on training grounds and training centers, the Ground Forces said. The attack follows a series of Russian strikes on Ukrainian military training facilities in May and June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those attacks came after former Ground Forces Commander Mykhailo Drapatyi had pledged to ensure new safety standards on the training grounds and hold accountable those responsible for the deaths in the wake of a Russian strike in March. Following additional attacks in May and June including a June 1 strike on a training ground that left 12 dead and 60 injured Drapatyi submitted his resignation as the Ground Forces Commander. He was appointed Commander of the Joint Forces on June 3. Brigadier General Hennadii Shapovalov was subsequently appointed to replace Drapatyi as Ground Forces Commander. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Trump says Russia tariffs will be imposed in 10 days . Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Dmitry Bakanov, head of the Russian space agency Roscosmos, has arrived in the U.S. for the first direct talks with NASA leadership since 2018, Roscosmos announced on July 29. Bakanov will meet U.S. Transportation Secretary and acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy to discuss further operations and planned deorbiting of the International Space Station (ISS), as well as a cross-flight agreement between NASA and Roscosmos. NASA has yet to confirm the planned meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Roscosmos head, who arrived in Houston, Texas, earlier on July 29, also plans to meet the crew of NASA's Crew-11 mission, including Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov, scheduled to depart no earlier than July 31. Bakanov's itinerary will also include visits to the Johnson Space Center and to Boeing production facilities where the CST-100 Starliner starcraft is being developed. A meeting between the heads of the two space agencies previously took place in October 2018, when the Biden administration temporarily lifted the entry ban on then-Roscosmos head Dmitry Rogozin. Space exploration has remained one of the few areas of continued cooperation between Russia and the U.S., even after Washington severed diplomatic ties and imposed sweeping sanctions in response to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bilateral ties initially warmed after U.S. President Donald Trump's inauguration and his outreach to Moscow. Earlier this year, several Russian officials urged closer cooperation in technology and space exploration with the U.S., namely with Elon Musk's SpaceX company. Recent weeks saw the U.S.-Russian ties sour yet again as Trump has increasingly voiced frustration with Moscow's rejection of a peace deal in Ukraine and continued attacks against Ukrainian cities. Read also: Investigation: Despite sanctions, American trucks are being used by Russia to launch kamikaze drones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. COZAD Trysta Asche shared her experiences and insights on Holocaust education during the Armchair Travels event at Wilson Public Library on Thursday, July 24. During the hourlong presentation, the Cozad Community Schools middle school teacher recounted several trips to Washington, D.C., where she attended the Belfer National Conference for educators at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. To better understand her journey for the large library crowd, Asche provided a timeline, highlighting the different years she visited Washington and some of the work related to the Holocaust. 2018Asches journey as a Holocaust educator began in 2018, when she attended the Belfer National Conference for educators at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Since then, her commitment to Holocaust education has taken her across the country, into classrooms and onto national stages, impacting students and fellow teachers alike. Asche said she took a leap of faith and applied for a scholarship to the Belfer National Conference to support her trip financially. I wrote my essay, and I just kind of kept my fingers crossed, because Im like, nobodys going to pick somebody whos teaching in Arcadia, Nebraska, Asche said. In the end, they picked me and fully funded everything. They paid for my hotel room, for my flight, everything for me to go to D.C. and attend this conference, which was a life-changing experience. At the conference, Asche said, she met educators from around the world and had the opportunity to interact with Margit Morawetz Meissner, a Holocaust survivor. One of the most poignant parts of my visit to Belfer was getting to see Margit and learning more about the Holocaust from a different perspective, she said. That was a huge, huge part of my first Belfer conference. The experience also provided Asche with valuable teaching resources. The great thing about the Holocaust Museum, too, is theyre always willing to share their materials. If youre a teacher, they will give you all of their lesson plans and everything with no cost, which is huge to any teacher, Asche said. 2019The following year, Asches passion for history and education led her to participate in National History Day with her students. Two of her students qualified for the national competition in Washington, a milestone for her rural Nebraska classroom. Taking kids who had never had the opportunity to travel there before was huge for me, she said. We went to all of these different places. One of my favorite things about the Vietnam Wall is the artifacts that are left there. People go every single day and leave something behind. Asches students created projects on topics such as Claudette Colvin and the Vietnam Memorial Wall, gaining research and presentation skills. My favorite part was the annotated bibliographies and helping them learn how to research. That was not their favorite part, just to be quite frank, because I would make all of my seven through 12 students do it, Asche said with a laugh. 2020In 2020, Asche was selected to become a Museum Teacher Fellow at the Holocaust Museum, a highly competitive program that selects only 15 educators worldwide each year. When you become a teacher fellow member, youre going up against the whole world. So that was a little daunting, Asche said. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the fellowship to move online. We were the class that kind of, we kept doing programming the whole time. We kept doing Zoom meetings. In my class, we always say we had a three-year fellowship instead of a one-year fellowship because it just extended so long, Asche said. 2021Despite the pandemic, Asche continued her fellowship work and participated in another National History Day project, this time focusing on a World War II soldier from her area. She and a student traveled to Hawaii to deliver a speech and develop a webpage as part of the project. 2022The Museum Teacher Fellowship resumed in person in 2022, and Asche traveled to Washington with her fellowship cohort. She participated in educational activities at the museum and networked with other fellows and mentors. 2023In 2023, Asche presented at the Nebraska Educational Technology Association conference on foundational resources for teaching the Holocaust. She also attended National History Day in College Park, Maryland, as the event returned to in-person after being virtual during the pandemic. This was my last time traveling or doing anything with my Loup City kids, because this was the summer before my family and I moved to Cozad, Asche said. Asche made it a point to take her students to the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Holocaust Memorial Museum. My kids had done Holocaust units with me, and wanted to see it because I had talked about it so much and made them excited to go, Asche said. 2024In 2024, Asche traveled to Washington with her children to visit the Holocaust Museum and other sites. The day I took my children to the Holocaust Museum was a huge moment for me, because they were able to see it for themselves and have conversations, she said. 2025This year, Asche served as a facilitator at the Belfer Conference, helping to ensure the event ran smoothly and supporting other educators. Asche continues to advocate for Holocaust education, developing curriculum for English classrooms and planning to present sessions at upcoming conferences, including when the Americans in the Holocaust exhibit comes to UNK. I believe Holocaust education is important because I truly, truly believe, deep within myself, that history has a way of repeating itself, Asche said. KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Glide bombs and ballistic missiles struck a Ukrainian prison and a medical facility overnight as Russia's relentless strikes on civilian areas killed at least 27 people across the country, officials said Tuesday, despite U.S. President Donald Trumps threat to soon punish Russia with sanctions and tariffs unless it stops. Four powerful Russian glide bombs hit a prison in Ukraines southeastern Zaporizhzhia region, authorities said. They killed at least 16 inmates and wounded more than 90 others, Ukraines Justice Ministry said. In the Dnipro region of central Ukraine, authorities said Russian missiles partially destroyed a three-story building and damaged nearby medical facilities, including a maternity hospital and a city hospital ward. At least three people were killed, including a 23-year-old pregnant woman, and two other people were killed elsewhere in the region, regional authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that overnight Russian strikes across the country hit 73 cities, towns and villages. These were conscious, deliberate strikes not accidental, Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Trump said Tuesday he is giving Russian President Vladimir Putin 10 days to stop the killing in Ukraine after three years of war, moving up a 50-day deadline he had given the Russian leader two weeks ago. The move meant Trump wants peace efforts to make progress by Aug. 8. Trump has repeatedly rebuked Putin for talking about ending the war but continuing to bombard Ukrainian civilians. But the Kremlin hasn't changed its tactics. Im disappointed in President Putin, Trump said during a visit to Scotland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday that Russia is determined to achieve its goals in Ukraine, though he said Moscow has taken note of Trumps announcement and is committed to seeking a peaceful solution. Zelenskyy welcomed Trump's shortening of the deadline. Everyone needs peace Ukraine, Europe, the United States and responsible leaders across the globe, Zelenskyy wrote in a post on Telegram. Everyone except Russia. The Kremlin pushes back against Trump The Kremlin pushed back, with a top Putin lieutenant warning Trump against playing the ultimatum game with Russia. Russia isnt Israel or even Iran, former president Dmitry Medvedev, who is deputy head of the countrys Security Council, wrote on social platform X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country, Medvedev said. Since Russia's full-scale invasion of its neighbor, the Kremlin has warned Kyiv's Western backers that their involvement could end up broadening the war to NATO countries. Kremlin officials continue to frame Russia as in direct geopolitical confrontation with the West in order to generate domestic support for the war in Ukraine and future Russian aggression against NATO, the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington think tank, said late Monday. Russia attacks with glide bombs, drones and missiles Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ukrainian air force said Russia launched two Iskander-M ballistic missiles along with 37 Shahed-type strike drones and decoys at Ukraine overnight. It said 32 Shahed drones were intercepted or neutralized by Ukrainian air defenses. The Russian attack close to midnight Monday hit the Bilenkivska Correctional Facility with glide bombs, according to the State Criminal Executive Service of Ukraine. Glide bombs, which are Soviet-era bombs retrofitted with retractable fins and guidance systems, have been laying waste to cities in eastern Ukraine, where the Russian army is trying to pierce Ukrainian defenses. The bombs carry up to 3,000 kilograms (6,600 pounds) of explosives. At least 42 inmates were hospitalized with serious injuries, while another 40 people, including one staff member, sustained various injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The strike destroyed the prisons dining hall, damaged administrative and quarantine buildings, but the perimeter fence held and no escapes were reported, authorities said. Ukrainian officials condemned the attack, saying that targeting civilian infrastructure, such as prisons, is a war crime under international conventions. The assault occurred exactly three years after an explosion killed more than 50 people at the Olenivka detention facility in the Russia-occupied Donetsk region, where dozens of Ukrainian prisoners were killed. Russia and Ukraine accused each other of shelling the prison. The Associated Press interviewed over a dozen people with direct knowledge of details of that attack, including survivors, investigators and families of the dead and missing. All described evidence they believed points directly to Russia as the culprit. The AP also obtained an internal United Nations analysis that found the same. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian forces also struck a grocery store in a village in the northeastern Kharkiv region, police said, killing five and wounding three civilians. Authorities in the southern Kherson region reported one civilian killed and three wounded over the past 24 hours. Alongside the barrages, Russia has also kept up its grinding war of attrition, which has slowly churned across the eastern side of Ukraine at a heavy cost in troop losses and military hardware. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed Tuesday that Russian troops have captured the villages of Novoukrainka in the Donetsk region and Temyrivka in the Zaporizhzhia region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine launches long-range drones Ukraine has sought to fight back against Russian strikes by developing its own long-range drone technology, hitting oil depots, weapons plants and disrupting commercial flights. Russias Defense Ministry said Tuesday that air defenses downed 74 Ukrainian drones over several regions overnight, including 43 over the Bryansk region. Yuri Slyusar, the head of the Rostov region said a man in the city of Salsk was killed in a drone attack, which started a fire at the Salsk railway station. Officials said a cargo train was set ablaze at the Salsk station and the railway traffic via Salsk was suspended. Explosions shattered windows in two cars of a passenger train and passengers were evacuated. ___ Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine. Medics treat two workers who were injured after a Russian FPV drone hit a civilian vehicle in Kostiantynivka, Ukraine, July 29. Credit - Diego Herrera Carcedo - Anadolu via Getty Images At least 22 Ukrainians have been killed and another 85 injured in Russian strikes across the country overnight, prompting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to call for very harsh, truly painful sanctions on Russia. Moscows latest barrage comes hours after President Donald Trump said that he would be reducing the time period in which Vladimir Putin has to reach a peace deal or face heavy tariffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Zelensky said that 73 cities and villages came under attack including the eastern city of Kamyanske, where a hospital was hit, killing a 23-year-old pregnant woman. He added that airstrikes began around midnight local time, with several Russian bombs dropped on a prison facility on the frontline in the Zaporizhzhia region, most of which is currently under Russian occupation. Ivan Federov, Head of the Zaporizhzhia Regional Military Administration, said on Tuesday that 16 people were killed in the strikes calling it a blatant war crime. The Russians could not have been unaware that they were targeting civilians in that facility. Many were killed, and another 43 people were wounded, some of them with very severe injuries, Zelensky said on social media after the attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian attacks continued on Tuesday morning, with a drone strike leaving two utility company workers injured in the eastern city of Kostiantynivka. Serhiy Horbunov, head of the citys Military Administration, called it cynical aggression by Russian occupiers against civilian infrastructure. Zelensky continued: "This was done after a completely clear position was voiced by the United States a position supported by the world that Russia must end this war and move to diplomacy, he added. The Ukrainian President referenced Trumps updated deadline for Putin to reach a peace deal with Kyiv, which Zelensky says he welcomes. Im going to make a new deadline of about 10 or 12 days from today. Theres no reason theyre [Russia] waiting. 50 days, I wanted to be generous but we just dont see any progress being made, Trump told reporters as he sat down with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in Scotland on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The President also confirmed that he would be enforcing secondary tariffs on Russia should a deal not come to fruition. Two weeks ago, Trump said that he would give Russia 50 days to reach such a deal, and failure to do so would result in 100% tariffs on Russia and any of its trading partners. Under the previous deadline, Moscow would have had until September 3rd, which has now been moved forward to between August 7-9. Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country, said Deputy Chair of the Security Council of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev in response to Trumps comments on Monday. Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina responded to Medvedev, saying: To those in Russia who believe that President Trump is not serious about ending the bloodbath between Russia and Ukraine: You and your customers will soon be sadly mistaken. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medvedev then fired back, replying: It's not for you or Trump to dictate when to 'get at the peace table'. Negotiations will end when all the objectives of our military operation have been achieved. Work on America first, gramps! in the social media spat. Contact us at letters@time.com. ZAPORIZHZHIA, Ukraine (Reuters) -Russian airstrikes on a prison and hospital in southeastern Ukraine killed at least 19 people, officials said on Tuesday, while U.S. President Donald Trump said he would start imposing punitive measures on Russia within 10 days if Moscow showed no progress toward ending its war in Ukraine. Sixteen of the people were killed when Russia bombed a prison in the frontline Zaporizhzhia region in an attack Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said was deliberate. He said 43 people were injured in the incident. "The Russians knew it was a civilian facility. They could not have been unaware," Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Each such Russian strike, each instance of Russian arrogance in response to global calls to end the war, all this only confirms that pressure is necessary." Separately, a missile strike on a hospital in the neighbouring Dnipropetrovsk region killed a 23-year-old pregnant woman and two others. Zelenskiy earlier said a total of 22 people had been killed over the past 24 hours. Russia, which denied targeting civilians in Tuesday's attacks, has intensified airstrikes on Ukrainian towns and cities behind the front lines of its full-scale invasion, now in its fourth year, as it gradually pushes ahead on the battlefield. Russian forces hold around a fifth of Ukrainian territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TRUMP'S NEW, SHORTER DEADLINE Trump, underscoring his frustration with Putin, said in Scotland on Monday he was shortening his earlier deadline of 50 days to 10 or 12 days for Russia to make progress towards ending the war. On Tuesday, aboard Air Force One, he said he had heard no reply from Russia and could begin slapping tariffs and other measures on Moscow within 10 days. The Kremlin said on Tuesday that it had "taken note" of Trump's earlier statement. "The special military operation continues," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, employing the term that Moscow uses for its war effort in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following Tuesday's attack on the prison, across the Dnipro River from Russian-occupied territory, injured inmates waded through rubble and broken glass. Bandaged and bloody, they sat stunned as guards yelled out a roll call. Ukraine's Justice Ministry said the prison's dining hall had been destroyed and other parts of the facility damaged in a strike that involved four high-explosive bombs and also wounded 42 people. It had originally said 17 people were killed, but later revised its tally. "People were screaming, moaning," said prisoner Yaroslav Samarskiy, 54, recalling the aftermath of the strike. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Some dead, some alive, some without legs - half of them burned." Separately, five people were killed on Tuesday morning in the northeastern Kharkiv region after a Russian strike on a humanitarian aid point in a frontline village, a senior police official said. (Reporting by Serhiy Chalyi in Zaporizhzhia and Dan Peleschuk in Kyiv; additional reporting by Dmitry Antonov in Moscow; editing by Sharon Singleton, Mark Heinrich, Ron Popeski, Rod Nickel) A Russian strike FPV drone has hit a fire engine in Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast: two members of the city fire brigade were injured. Source: Serhii Horbunov, Head of Kostiantynivka City Military Administration, on Facebook Details: According to the city military administration, Russian troops conducted another hostile attack on the city of Kostiantynivka using a strike FPV drone on the morning of 29 July. A service vehicle, owned by a municipal enterprise, was hit. Two employees of the city fire brigade were injured as a result of the attack. The interior of the damaged vehicle Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: Donetsk Oblast Military Administration More details: At the time of the attack, employees of the municipal utility company were evacuating civilians from the danger zone. The Russian drone hit the vehicle while it was moving, damaging it and injuring the employees. The affected individuals were provided with medical assistance. People affected by the Russian drone attack Photo: Donetsk Oblast Military Administration Quote from Horbunov: "This attack is yet another manifestation of cynical aggression on the part of the Russian occupiers, directed not only against civilian infrastructure, but also against those who perform vital tasks every day to protect and rescue the civilian population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The enemy deliberately attacks those who risk their lives on the humanitarian front line for the safety of others. Such actions are not just a violation of international humanitarian law they are part of a systematic tactic of intimidation, destabilisation of the region and terror against civilians." Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Three people have been killed and another five injured in a Russian missile strike on the city of Kamianske in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on the night of 28-29 July. Source: Serhii Lysak, Head of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Military Administration; State Emergency Service of Ukraine; Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Telegram Quote: "Two people have been killed. Another five have been injured. Two women are in a critical condition. One of them is pregnant. Three patients are in a moderate condition." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Update: Later, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that the Russians had killed three people in Kamianske. Quote: "The Russians launched a missile attack on the city of Kamianske, targeting the city hospital at 02:00. Three people were killed in the strike, including a pregnant woman. Her name was Diana and she was only 23 years old." The aftermath of the Russian attack Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine Details: A three-storey building that was not in use was partially destroyed and medical facilities a maternity hospital and a department of the city hospital were also damaged in the missile strike. The aftermath of the Russian attack Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine The Russians used artillery and UAVs to attack the Nikopol district. They hit the Marhanets and Pokrovske hromadas and the city of Nikopol. Cars were damaged and five houses and two outbuildings were hit. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories ed.] Damaged house Photo: Serhii Lysak on Telegram The Russians also continued attacking the Synelnykove district. They used guided bombs and FPV drones to attack the Mezhova, Dubovyky and Slovianka hromadas. One person was killed and another two injured in the Russian strikes. Four houses, an office building, shops, a petrol station and cars were damaged and fires broke out. Person being taken away in an ambulance Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: Serhii Lysak on Telegram Updated: The State Emergency Service of Ukraine added that firefighters came under Russian fire while extinguishing a fire in the Synelnykove district. "Russian forces attacked one of the settlements in the Synelnykove district with UAVs overnight. A lorry caught fire. The enemy deliberately hit the firefighters again while they were extinguishing the blaze," the State Emergency Service reported. Firefighter extinguishing fire Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine Fire and rescue appliances were damaged in the attack, but no personnel were affected. Damaged fire appliance Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine Lysak also reported that, according to updated information, the Russians also hit the Velykomykhailivka hromada in the evening with glide bombs, killing a 75-year-old woman and injuring a 68-year-old man. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Mobile internet has been unavailable in Krasnoyarsk Krai for four days. The authorities explained this as a "security measure". Source: Meduza, a Latvia-based Russian media outlet Details: The authorities of the Krasnoyarsk Krai have commented for the first time on the long-term mobile internet outage that began on 26 July. Mikhail Kotyukov, Krasnoyarsk Krai governor, said that the restrictions are temporary and are related to "the need to strengthen security measures in certain areas based on operational data and to prevent network threats". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Krasnoyarsk Krai governor reported that similar measures are being implemented in other oblasts of Russia. However, no further details about the outage scale or the duration of the restrictions have been disclosed. Background: Mobile internet is disappearing en masse in the Urals and Siberia. Users in Krasnoyarsk Krai, Yekaterinburg and other cities are complaining about disruptions. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Russian forces dropped three FAB-250 aerial bombs on Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast on the afternoon of 29 July. Three civilians were injured as a result of the attack. Source: Donetsk Oblast National Police on Facebook Details: Around 11:20 on Tuesday, the Russians deployed three FAB-250 aerial bombs equipped with a unified gliding and correction module (UMPK) on the city. As a result of the attack, three civilians were injured: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 74-year-old man, who is in a serious condition; his 70-year-old wife; a 47-year-old man. Paramedics helping the wounded. Photo: Diego Herrera/Anadolu Agency Police paramedics were the first to arrive, providing aid to the victims and transporting them to hospital. Paramedics helping the wounded. Photo: Diego Herrera/Anadolu Agency Eight apartment buildings were damaged. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! By Alexander Marrow and Gleb Stolyarov (Reuters) -Russian airline Aeroflot cancelled dozens more flights on Tuesday but said it had now stabilised its schedule after a major cyberattack a day earlier, and the transport ministry said the issue had been resolved. Two pro-Ukraine hacking groups claimed on Monday to have carried out a year-long operation to penetrate Aeroflot's network. They said they had crippled 7,000 servers, extracted data on passengers and employees and gained control over the personal computers of staff, including senior managers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aeroflot's online timetable showed about 25 flights out of Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport had been cancelled on Tuesday, mostly overnight and through the morning. Nearly all afternoon and evening flights were due to take off, though dozens were delayed. Interfax news agency said 31 inbound flights to the capital had been cancelled. Aeroflot said it had "stabilised" its flight programme. The transport ministry said in a statement: "Thanks to the efforts of Aeroflot employees, with the active support of Sheremetyevo services, the problem that arose was resolved in the shortest possible time." The ministry described the issue as "a failure in the IT infrastructure". It did not refer to it as a cyberattack, although prosecutors have said they are investigating it as such. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Responsibility was claimed by the Belarusian Cyber Partisans, a long-established group that opposes President Alexander Lukashenko, and by a more shadowy and recent hacking outfit that calls itself Silent Crow. 'SAVING FACE' Yuliana Shemetovets, a spokesperson for the Cyber Partisans, said Aeroflot was likely working with costly manual systems in order to maintain the appearance of business as usual. The ministry statement said there had been a "transition to domestic systems". "Without IT systems the company can work manually like in the old days when flight tickets cost more than $1K," Shemetovets told Reuters. "It would just be unprofitable, meaning the company would keep sustaining losses just to save face." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said that Aeroflot's CEO had not changed his password since 2022 and that the company was using an outdated version of Windows software. Some workers had passwords saved in a Word document on their computers, she added. Reuters could not independently confirm those details and has approached Aeroflot for comment. Aeroflot's shares were up 1.36% on Tuesday, recovering some ground after slumping to their lowest mark since late 2024 on Monday. Russian lawmakers said the cyberattack was a wake-up call and that investigators should focus not only on the perpetrators but on those who had allowed it to happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mikhail Klimarev, director of the Internet Protection Society, a Russian digital rights group, said it was a serious episode that showed cybercriminals were learning "best practice" from around the world while Russian companies were hampered in their response because of sanctions. "It's like with viruses: If you don't communicate with people who have the flu, you have no immunity," he told Reuters. Klimarev said Russian security services had dropped the ball, and the incident highlighted a failure of the technical systems that are meant to allow them to counter such threats. He said there was a grave safety risk as the hackers could hypothetically have exploited their access to Aeroflot systems in order to change data and cause planes to crash. (Additional reporting and writing by Mark Trevelyan; editing by Mark Heinrich) NATO's E-3 surveillance aircraft have been tracking the Ukraine war since the beginning. Crew members told Business Insider that they've noticed a shift in the air element of the war. As the front lines froze, air attacks shifted from close bombing runs to standoff strikes. IN POLISH AIRSPACE The crew of this NATO surveillance aircraft may not be able to see every detail of the fighting in Ukraine from its cruising altitude of 30,000 feet, but they still have a surprisingly clear picture of the battlefield. From high above Eastern Europe, NATO's airborne surveillance crews operating the alliance's E-3 Sentry planes have tracked Russia's evolving air war since the start of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the early days, aircrews watched Russian warplanes fly bombing runs toward the front lines. Now, aircraft are rarely crossing into Ukrainian airspace, having largely been replaced by standoff missile strikes and drone attacks as both sides rely more on air defenses and long-range firepower. At the beginning of the war, "you saw a lot of activity." Capt. Jasper, a Dutch surveillance controller who monitors the airspace and surface, told Business Insider aboard the E-3 during a recent mission over Eastern Europe in support of NATO's Baltic Sentry operation. But as the front lines gradually froze and the war became more static, there was "less activity with airplanes," he said. "That's actually what we saw on our side." A Russian Mi-28 helicopter firing rockets during military drills in Russia in 2020. DIMITAR DILKOFF via Getty Images In the early weeks of the invasion, Russian jets and helicopters were commonly seen in Ukrainian skies, flying deep into the country to support advancing forces, though often inadequately. But losses and effective Ukrainian air defenses, which Russia failed to suppress, blunted its efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The war moved east, where Russia could lob missiles into Ukraine or let its bombers fire from relative safety. Both sides fielded air defenses so thick that the NATO aircrews watching from high above could see the shift pilots on both sides stopped flying into range, and Russia's air war became increasingly remote. The skies over Ukraine have become a battlefield defined by denial, not air dominance. Neither side owns the skies, so Russia and Ukraine punish the enemy from a distance. And the E-3 surveillance crews have seen the difference. NATO's eyes in the sky The E-3, a modified Boeing 707/320 passenger jet, can detect hostile aircraft, ships, and missile launchers from far away. It has a 360-degree rotating radar dome that can see over 300 miles across the air and surface, and high-tech sensors that, unlike ground stations, are not restricted by terrain or the Earth's curvature. NATO's E-3 fleet has been tracking the war in Ukraine. US Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew D. Sarver The airborne warning and control system, or AWACS, can also track friendly assets and interface with them. Data collected by the plane can be easily distributed in real time to NATO aircraft, ships, or command centers, giving allies critical situational awareness during war or peacetime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NATO received its first E-3 in the early 1980s, and the small-but-capable fleet has flown in support of numerous missions and conflict operations in the decades since, including over North America, Europe, and the Middle East. Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014 marked a turning point for the AWACS fleet, which began to see increased activity in Eastern Europe. After Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, NATO intensified its air patrols to better monitor Russian activities and deter any aggression on the alliance's eastern flank. Maj. Ben, an American officer and the E-3's fighter allocator in charge of coordinating with other aircraft, said NATO's air policing missions in Eastern Europe have gone from sporadic to regular since 2022. "We fly more provide more deterrence," explained Maj. Ben, who, like other members of the multinational crew that BI spoke with during the flight, could only be identified by his rank and first name for security reasons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The E-3 doesn't carry weapons, but it provides situational awareness, coordination, and visibility that extend the alliance's radar horizon by hundreds of miles and make it harder for an adversary to hide movements or attempt surprise attacks, boosting deterrence. Russia has used glide bombs to strike Ukrainian military positions and civilian areas. Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP, File The AWACS fleet is also tracking how the battlefield has changed in Ukraine. Capt. Jasper said airpower was a heavy feature at the start of the full-scale invasion, but this slowed down as the war shifted from maneuver-heavy combat to a more attritional campaign, and the front lines became more static. "What we see is more ISR flights surveillance and reconnaissance flights and not as much air activity into Ukraine anymore," he explained, and recalled how the crew could watch on their computer screens as aircraft took off, flew toward the front lines, and turned away signalling that a bombing run had ended. Capt. Donny Demmers, a Dutch public affairs officer who was permitted to share his full name, said aircraft avoid getting too close to the front lines now because Ukraine and Russia are both fielding sophisticated air defense systems that threaten enemy jets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But you still see there will be a lot of missile attacks," he explained. However, instead of close bombing runs, the attacks are carried out at longer ranges using standoff weapons. Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, have constantly pushed Kyiv's Western military backers for additional air defense systems and ammunition to replenish exhausted stockpiles amid Russia's worsening missile and drone attacks on major cities. Read the original article on Business Insider Increased spending on defense and a new Russian conscription law are signs of the Kremlin's increasingly aggressive posture and preparations for future conflict with Europe and NATO states, according to analysts. As Ukraine and its Western allies continue to sound the alarm about Moscow's long-term intentions, Russian lawmakers introduced a bill on July 22 that would allow year-round conscription. If passed, the new system would replace the traditional bi-annual draft, enabling continuous replenishment of military personnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The development comes after recent Ukrainian warnings of a massive increase in Russian rearmament spending, and the creation last year of new military districts which experts say are potential preparations for future wars outside of Ukraine. "All of these components new military districts, changes in mobilization and defence spending are suggesting that Russia is preparing for a protracted war, not just in Ukraine but also against NATO," Kateryna Stepanenko, Russia deputy team lead and analyst at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), told the Kyiv Independent. Russian mobilization Russia effectively has two armies a conscript army and a contract army. Russia's conscript army is the country's standing armed forces that are required to defend Russia itself. To maintain this force, the Kremlin currently conducts conscription twice a year, in spring and fall, requiring eligible men to serve for one year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But conscripts by law are not allowed to be sent abroad to fight wars in foreign countries. Instead, the Kremlin has simply paid people to fight in Ukraine, offering huge sign-up bonuses to encourage people to volunteer and sign contracts, a method which, up to now, has managed to replenish the huge losses the army has incurred, but which many experts say is unsustainable. "If this law is passed, it can be considered a stealth mobilization." Throughout the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Putin has steered clear of a full mobilization, conscious of the domestic backlash it would create. But the Kremlin appears to be now taking at least partial steps towards this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Russia over the past couple of years has been dedicating a lot of resources and time to changing its mobilization system, digitizing it, making it more comprehensive, and investing lots of money into military patriotic education," Stepanenko said. Russian reservists drafted during the partial mobilisation attend a departure ceremony in Sevastopol, Crimea, occupied Ukraine on Sept. 27, 2022. (Stringer / AFP via Getty Images) The bodies of two Russian soldiers lie on the grass in front of a house in the recently liberated village of Makiivka, Luhansk Oblast, Ukraine, on Nov. 16, 2022. (Laurel Chor / SOPA Images / LightRocket via Getty Images) And in the latest move, Russian lawmakers introduced a bill on July 22 to allow continuous, year-round conscription on July 22. "If this law is passed, it can be considered a stealth mobilization," Ukrainian defense expert, Denys Popovych, told the Kyiv Independent. "There is a 99% chance that this law will be passed, because it was submitted by (Andriy) Kartopolov, who is (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's man, his mouthpiece. What he submits will largely be approved, and is agreed with Putin," he added. Increased Russian rearmament spending These changes in mobilization laws are, according to Kyiv, being accompanied by dramatic defense spending plans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Ukraines intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, Moscow plans to spend $1.1 trillion on rearmament by 2036, an unprecedented investment since the collapse of the Soviet Union. "There is a total mobilization of politics, economy, and society of the Russian Federation to be ready for the upcoming large-scale war," Budanov said during the annual meeting of Ukrainian ambassadors on July 22. "The Kremlin's theory of victory is that it can outlast Western support and Ukrainian resistance." As part of this reform, Russia has already created two new military districts Moscow and Leningrad and is preparing to form additional divisions and military units. Budanov said the Kremlin's goal is not just regional domination but a reshaping of the global order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked why Budanov specifically mentioned the year 2036, Stepanenko believes that this date aligns with the Kremlins tendency to avoid abrupt or sudden decisions, understanding that a rapid and general mobilization of the population or a sudden pivot to increase defense spending could "upset the Russian people." President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) and military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov (R) during a meeting in Kyiv, Ukraine on June 22, 2025. (President Volodymyr Zelensky / Telegram) "I think mobilization is probably the most concerning issue for Russians, as many of them are extremely worried about being mobilized or having family members mobilized," she said. "So the Kremlin is taking a long-term approach. The Kremlin's theory of victory is that it can outlast Western support and Ukrainian resistance." The struggling Russian economy Another factor in Russia's desire to increase mobilization is simply that it might not be able to afford to pay the huge sums necessary to sign contracts for much longer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Russia's budget is currently bursting at the seams," Popovych said. "Many industries and transport sectors have collapsed due to sanctions. Therefore, they will obviously not have enough money to recruit people for the war, as they are doing now." Currently, Western sanctions against Russia are still in place, and the EU has just announced its 18th package.Russia's defense spending has already overtaken that of all European countries combined. In 2024, its military budget surged by 42% to $462 billion, surpassing Europe's collective defense expenditure of $457 billion, according to the International Institute for Strategic Studies. "One of the Kremlins objectives is to defeat NATO, seize Ukraine and Belarus, and restore the Russian empire then become a world hegemon." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It does seem that Russia is trying to establish some sort of wartime economy. There are a couple of indications besides the increase in things ending on defense," Stepanenko said. According to Stepanenko, the Kremlin is pursuing a strategy of deeper nationalization and centralization to sustain and scale military production. "The Kremlin is currently trying to prepare Russians to embrace more economic setbacks and more economic sacrifices in favor of this kind of long-term defense spending," Stepanenko said. Russian President Vladimir Putin visits Uralvagonzavod, the countrys main tank factory in the Urals, in Nizhny Tagil, Russia, on Feb. 15, 2024. (Ramil Sitdikov / Pool / AFP via Getty Images) A pedestrian walks near a residential building housing the local branch of Russias ruling party, United Russia, with its emblem and a patriotic mural on the wall in Chekhov, Russia, on Feb. 11, 2023. (Yuri Kadobnov / AFP via Getty Images) Some regional governments are beginning to prioritize defense spending and military contracts, even if it means reducing civilian programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Russia will save money by cutting social spending to develop its military-industrial sector. We know from the history of wars that whenever the military sector develops, social spending is cut," Popovych said. Russia's long-term goal Stepanenko said the Kremlin wants to change the world order "to essentially displace the Western world order." "The Kremlin is posing itself as the new world power, so it's trying to expand its influence in Latin America, Asia, and Africa," she said. "One of the Kremlins objectives is to defeat NATO, seize Ukraine and Belarus, and restore the Russian empire then become a world hegemon." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And some Western leaders are taking the threat seriously Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on July 25 that Russia will likely be ready for a potential military confrontation with Europe within the next two years. Read also: Investigation: Despite sanctions, American trucks are being used by Russia to launch kamikaze drones Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Dmitry Bakanov, head of Russia's Roscosmos space agency, has arrived in the US for talks with NASA leadership, marking their first in-person meeting since 2018. Source: Reuters Details: The talks will take place in Houston with the acting NASA Administrator, Sean Duffy. The main topics will include the continuation of joint flight programmes, the future of the International Space Station (ISS) and preparations for its safe deorbiting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russias state news agency TASS says Bakanov also plans to meet the crew of the Crew Dragon mission, which includes Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov. The Crew-11 flight is scheduled for launch on 31 July from Cape Canaveral. The visit also includes a tour of the Johnson Space Center and Boeings production facilities, where the Russian delegation will hold further negotiations on space projects. The last meeting between the heads of the two space agencies took place in 2018, when Dmitry Rogozin met Jim Bridenstine at the Baikonur spaceport. Background: Russia is planning to create its own version of Elon Musks SpaceX Starlink satellite internet system. Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, has said he is planning a meeting with Elon Musk. He said the main topic of discussion will be "the future of humanity". Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! An investigation is underway after two Oklahoma State Board of Education members said they saw images of naked women on a TV screen in the office of Oklahoma's top education official, state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters Board members Ryan Deatherage, of Kingfisher, and Becky Carson, of Edmond, told The Oklahoman they saw the images while the board met behind closed doors in Walters' office on Thursday, July 24. The state board was in Walters' office for a closed executive session to discuss teacher licensing, student attendance appeals and other sensitive issues. Walters, a Republican, chairs the board. Since then, House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, called for an investigation of all of Walters' "relevant devices," which will be conducted by the Oklahoma County Sheriffs Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of July 29, Walters said he is not responsible for the lewd images. Here's a brief rundown on Oklahoma's top educator. Who is Ryan Walters? Ryan Walters is the state schools superintendent in Oklahoma. A 2016 teacher of the year finalist, Walters taught high school history for eight years at McAlester High School, according to his government biography. He also previously taught at Millwood High School. In September 2020, he was appointed as Secretary of Public Education in Oklahoma. He was elected to his current position in 2022, according to Ballotpedia, and his term ends in January 2027. In his 2022 campaign, he was endorsed by current Governor Kevin Stitt, Senator Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and former Oklahoma Governor Frank Keating, according to his campaign website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walters has long supported President Donald Trump, echoing several of his stances on education. In his personal life, he is married to his wife Katie. They have four children. What is happening with Walters and the investigation? Since the two board members reported that they saw naked women on a TV screen during a meeting in Walters' office, state officials have confirmed they are moving forward with investigations. Aaron Brilbeck, a spokesman for Oklahoma County's Sheriff's Office, confirmed the agency will lead the investigation on Monday, July 28. He said Sheriff Tommie Johnson III received a request from the state Office of Management and Enterprise Services to conduct the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked on Monday, Brilbeck said the investigation was in its early stages and had yet to speak with anyone involved in the meeting. Spokespeople for Walters have not answered questions about Walters' cooperation with the investigation. Quinton Hitchcock, a spokesman for Walters, called the story a "junk tabloid lie," and Walters has said the board members are lying in a recent statement. Related: Read Walters' latest statement on the accusation of nude images. Education in Oklahoma under Walters Parents and students in Oklahoma schools have seen many recent headlines regarding Walters' initiatives in the state's education sphere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In late July, Walters said that an "anti-woke" test would be ready in a matter of weeks to determine if teachers coming from "left-wing" states have personal ideas that align with Oklahoma's curriculum standards. Related: Oklahoma ranks nearly worst in US for education in recent survey. Here's why. In April, state funding was called into question when Walters ruled that schools would not receive state funding for the 2025-26 school year if they did not comply with non-diversity, equity and inclusion policies. And in May, Walters proposed that Oklahoma schools be required to track students' immigrant status. However, the proposal failed at different stages in its process and concluded with a joint resolution against Walters' desires. (This story was updated to correct a typo.) This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Who is Ryan Walters? Oklahoma's controversial top education official One day into an investigation to determine whether naked women were on a television screen in his office, state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters says investigators have already cleared him of any wrongdoing. In fact, the investigation by the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office is ongoing, and no one has been cleared of any wrongdoing, said Aaron Brilbeck, a spokesman for the agency. The state Office of Management and Enterprise Services tapped the sheriff's office to conduct the investigation, which was launched on Monday, July 28. On Tuesday afternoon, Walters held a fiery news conference at the Oklahoma Capitol and said the investigators had concluded that none of his devices were ever connected to the television. He said he was targeted by a coordinated campaign of lies and called on members of the Oklahoma State Board of Education to resign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have had our name cleared by both OMES and the sheriffs office," Walters told those gathered. "There is nothing scandalous that I was part of, whatsoever." Three state Board of Education members Becky Carson of Edmond, Ryan Deatherage of Kingfisher and Michael Tinney of Norman issued a joint statement denying the accusations made against them by Walters. They urged him to cooperate with investigators. "As volunteer board members, we have sacrificed our time to advocate for the students of Oklahoma," they said. "We all want the best education for our students, not inflamed political rhetoric. No board member has accused Superintendent Walters of anything; we only brought attention to inappropriate content on a TV content that would cause a teacher in our state to lose their license." More: Nude women on Ryan Walters' TV screen during executive session: What we know Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their remarks came five days after Carson and Deatherage told The Oklahoman they saw images of naked women on a TV screen in Walters' office during an executive session on July 24. In describing what she saw, Carson said: I saw them just walking across the screen, and Im like, no.' Im sorry I even have to use this language, but Im like, Those are her nipples. And then Im like, Thats pubic hair. What in the world am I watching? I didnt watch a second longer. I was so disturbed by it, I was like, What is on your TV? I was very stern, like Id been a mother or a classroom teacher. And I said, What am I watching? Turn it off now! At his news conference Tuesday, Walters said the board members' accounts were meant to "crucify" his character, noting later that President Donald Trump had faced similar attacks. Oklahoma schools Superintendent Ryan Walters speaks at a press conference at the Oklahoma Capitol following allegations of nudity displayed at a school board meeting in Oklahoma City on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. He delivered about five minutes of remarks, then spent nearly three more minutes responding to four questions from reporters. He left as reporters shouted more questions at him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walters contended the board members' accounts were lies they had concocted with Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt, who had appointed them to the board. As governor, Stitt appoints six of the board's seven members. He overhauled the board earlier this year amid a political feud with Walters, who has the final seat on the board. "The governor needs to answer the questions: Did you tell these board members to come here and do this? Did you coordinate with them afterwards to set all this up?" Walters asked during the news conference, which on the Capitol's second floor, steps from the governor's office. Many staffers for the governor's office stood behind reporters to watch the news conference, and other observers watched from the third floor and fourth floor, looking down through the rotunda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stitt, who appointed Carson, Deatherage, Tinney and three other board members, has said hes backing his appointees. "I trust and appreciate my board members," Stitt said. "They are volunteers who are sacrificing their time to serve Oklahoma students. Should these allegations be true, all I can say is that I am profoundly disappointed." Walters has denied knowing about any inappropriate content on the television in his office. On Tuesday, he deflected questions about the type of content that could be shown on the TV. When asked by a reporter whether the television was capable of streaming digital content from a separate electronic device, Walters did not say yes or no and responded by saying, "This is cable TV news that were talking about, folks." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hours before the news conference, in an interview with FOX 25's Wendy Suares, Walters said the television in his office is only capable of playing cable television, a fact that he said made the board members' version of events "impossible." When Suares asked to see the cable television, Walters replied, "It's a cable TV box." A person behind the camera can be heard saying to Suares, "I think he's answered the question." Another person behind the camera said, "It's his private office." Oklahoma schools Superintendent Ryan Walters speaks at a press conference at the Oklahoma Capitol following allegations of nudity displayed at a school board meeting in Oklahoma City on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. After Suares asked whether it's correct to say the television in question was only connected to a cable box and "not like an internet-type situation," a person behind the camera replied, "I think he's covered it in great detail." After the Fox 25 interview aired, the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office issued an unsigned statement saying it could not share any details about its investigation, which it described as in its "infancy." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You can, however, expect a thorough investigation with the results being made public at the conclusion," the office said. (This story was updated to add new information.) This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Ryan Walters says he's cleared in TV case, but investigation continues The foreign minister added that several European countries today have "a huge Muslim population" that affects government policies, but this wouldn't allow Israel to "commit suicide." Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Tuesday said that more than one European foreign minister has told him that signing the letter condemning Israels war in Gaza was a mistake, and it emboldened Hamass stance in ceasefire talks. The letter was signed by the UK and more than 20 other countries, calling for animmediate end to the war in Gaza and criticizing the Israeli governments aid delivery model after hundreds of Palestinians were reportedly killed near sites distributing food. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement International pressure on Israel is only hardening Hamass stance; global pressure must be on Hamas to free the hostages and lay down its arms, he said. Saar added that military pressure in Gaza is effective, but it is not the only option, adding that Israel is also ready to use diplomacy. Egypt and Qatar, which have mediated Gaza hostage-ceasefire talks, said that there has been progress in the talks, but the latest round of negotiations in Doha broke off last week without a deal in sight. A Palestinian man carries aid supplies that entered Gaza through Israel, in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza Strip, on Sunday. (credit: Mahmoud Issa/Reuters) Hamas not only steals aid; they are profiting from it and using [the] funds as a financial resource during the war, Saar added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are witnessing a distorted campaign of international pressure against Israel over recent days, the foreign minister said, noting that this campaign is fueling rising antisemitism. Sa'ar addresses claims Israel starving Gazans, calling situation 'tough' He also addressed the recent claims that Israel has been forcefully starving Gazans, saying that while the situation is tough, the idea that Israel has implemented a starvation policy is a lie. The reality is the opposite; Israel is working very hard under very complicated circumstances to facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Regarding the recognition of Palestinian statehood, Saar said, Establishing a Palestinian state today is establishing a Hamas state, a jihadist state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He criticized Frances foreign minister, who, while in New York on Monday, said that Europe must pressure Israel to accept a two-state solution. "But this cannot and will not lead Israel to commit suicide," Sa'ar said. CASTRIES (Reuters) -A Saint Lucia court on Tuesday struck down laws that had criminalized same-sex relations in the Caribbean island nation with up to a decade behind bars, local LGBT rights organizations in the region said on Tuesday. A ruling from the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, headquartered in Saint Lucia's capital Castries, said two sections of the country's criminal code that banned "gross indecency" and "buggery" were unconstitutional, according to rights groups. The Eastern Caribbean Alliance for Diversity and Equality, a network of local rights groups, said the decision marked a fourth major victory in a regional challenge, following similar a wave of similar legal changes in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "ECADE celebrates this historic win affirming the dignity of LGBTQ+ people in Saint Lucia," it said in a post on X. The Caribbean nations of Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda and Saint Kitts and Nevis all struck down similar laws prohibiting gay sex in 2022, and Dominica also decriminalized same-sex acts last year. Though Trinidad and Tobago was among the first Eastern Caribbean nations to decriminalize gay sex in 2018, it reversed this decision in March of this year. Much of the region still imposes lengthy prison sentences. Though enforcement of these laws is rare, activists say they worsen widespread stigmas, harassment and abuse. (Reporting by Sarah Peter; Writing by Sarah Morland; Editing by Kylie Madry) SALEM, Ore. (KOIN) Even though the Detroit Lake drawdown is not expected for another year, the consequences of what that means for Salem is already apparent. Thats why the Salem City Council unanimously voted to declare a water emergency on Monday night. The water drawdown impacts hundreds of thousands of people in Marion County. The US Army Corps of Engineers, the body behind the plans to lower the water levels in Fall 2026, said it will essentially help endangered salmon and steelhead get from one place to another. The drawdown could affect not just drinking water in the region, but affect firefighting and other emergencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detroit Lake drawdown bad news for Stayton water, sewer Salem Public Works Director Brian Martin said ample preparation is key. He said his teams plan includes expanding alternative supply sources and adding groundwater wells. Salem Public Works Director Brian Martin, July 28, 2025 (KOIN) We need to take some actions immediately, Martin said. If we get our improvements completed successfully, hopefully nobody would be impacted. The total bill for these updates is about $8 million. That means Salem residents could see higher utility rates over the next few years. Im not confident that were going to find a way to get that additional funding, Martin said. But we certainly will try and get every penny that we can. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The water emergency declaration, Martin said, is essential and they dont have many other options. Salem braces for drinking water shortage as Detroit Lake drawdown looms Its really all about trying to move forward with projects to increase the amount of groundwater in our system, to help cover that loss of river water that we will likely not be able to use, he said. A graphic shown at a Salem City Council meeting when they declared a water emergency, July 28, 2025 (KOIN) Public works officials said they will start this project immediately. The US Army Corps of Engineers said they are committed to working closely with local governments, water utilities, and residents to mitigate the impacts of this drawdown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. ARDMORE, Ala. (WHNT) 3rd Avenue Salon in Ardmore was buzzing on Monday, both with the sound of clippers and excitement for the start of back-to-school. When News 19 stopped by, the Dingley boys were getting their back-to-school trims. While they made sure to tip, their cuts were free. GALLERY: Send in your 2025 Back-to-School Photos Thats because for the 10th year, hairstylist Bethany Payne has offered a back-to-school free haircut giveaway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a way to give back to people that are going back to school without the added expense, Payne said. Payne now offers the free cuts at 3rd Avenue Salon in Ardmore. However, she originally started this as an act of service for lower-income families in Tennessee. She said the first year, when she gave cuts to kids who needed them most, she realized that this was something she wanted to continue to offer. Huntsville commemorates Buffalo Soldiers on national holiday That was my Im going to do this forever, just to give back, Payne said. Just because there are so many children who have never had their hair touched by a stylist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the last few years, Payne has teamed up with fellow hairstylist Jaclyn Hogan. This year, the two women gave 40 free cuts over the two days of the giveaway. Hogan said when a child feels good, it can set the tone for a great school year. I believe it does help them out, it makes them feel more confident, she said. Both women say that as moms, they know how one less expense on the back-to-school list can make a big difference. They tell News 19 that they hope all of their clients have a great school year. Just have fun, and learn all you can learn, Payne said. Payne said that on Monday, she had clients from both Alabama and Tennessee. They traveled as far as Decatur (AL), Elkton (TN), Taft (TN), and Pulaski (TN). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Payne advertises the free haircuts on her Facebook page Hair by Bethany. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. The Scott Matheson Courthouse in Salt Lake City is pictured on Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch) The Salt Lake City School Board member who prosecutors say tried to bribe his political opponent last year has agreed to resign as part of a plea agreement. Mohamed Baayd, 49, won his election as the incumbent candidate for the districts Precinct 5 in November 2024 but that following December, he was charged with bribery in elections, a third-degree felony, stemming from accusations that he tried to get his opponent, Russell Askren, to drop out of the race in exchange for favors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 22, Baayd agreed to a deal that included submitting his letter of resignation to the Salt Lake City School Board, effective no later than Aug. 5, according to a plea in abeyance agreement filed in 3rd District Court. A plea in abeyance typically means an accused person will plead not guilty or no contest, and will be given conditions to adhere to in exchange for charges being dropped. Baayds agreement requires him to pay $1,000 within three months and remain law-abiding for six months after that, the state will move to dismiss the charge. Although Baayd was initially charged with a felony, his charges were amended this month to a class B misdemeanor as part of his plea agreement. Baayd did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Monday. In a text message in December after charges were filed, he declined to comment on the case but did tell Utah News Dispatch: Im an innocent man, and am entitled to the presumption of innocence under the constitution, and I look forward to my day in court and to continuing to serve the community to the best of my ability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX According to court documents, Baayd met with Askren, his opponent, in March 2024. During the meeting, Baayd told Mr. Askren that he knew a councilmember position was going to open in two years and that he was planning to run and had a very good chance of winning. Baayd stated that it was important for him to remain in his current position and asked Mr. Askren to withdraw from the election and allow Baayd to be re-elected, the charging documents read. If Askren withdrew from the race, Baayd said for the next two years he would involve him in the work of the board and make sure he got to know all of the members of the board and the district superintendent, the court documents read. Baayd explained that if he won the councilmember position, he would advocate for Mr. Askren and recommend to the board that they appoint him as a replacement. Baayd further explained that Mr. Askren would complete the last two years of Baayds seat and then be able to run as incumbent in 2028. Baayd told Askren that he wanted an answer by the end of the week, according to court documents, but Askren declined and ultimately ran against Baayd. The two men were the only candidates on the ballot, and Baayd won with 64.2% of the vote compared to Askrens 35.78%. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The co-founders of Samourai Wallet are expected to plead guilty to charges that, via their bitcoin mixing service, they helped hackers and other cyber criminals launder over $100 million in dirty money, according to Tuesday court filings. Both Keonne Rodriguez and William Lonergan Hill initially pleaded not guilty after they were arrested and charged with one count each of conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business last April charges for which they face a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison. Their trial was slated to begin in Manhattans U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York (SDNY) in early November. However, Tuesday court orders from District Judge Denise L. Cote, the judge overseeing the case, indicate that both men will change their pleas to guilty during back-to-back in-person court hearings on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision comes amid the ongoing trial of Roman Storm, the developer of Tornado Cash another privacy-focused crypto mixing tool which is also being held in Manhattans Southern District, in front of District Judge Katherine Polk Failla. Storm (as well as one of his colleagues, Roman Semenov, who remains at large) faces the same charges as Rodriguez and Hill, with an additional charge that he conspired to violate international sanctions. Storm, who has maintained his innocence and pleaded not guilty to the charges, faces up to 45 years in prison if convicted on all three counts. Storms defense rested its case on Tuesday, and closing arguments are expected to wrap on Wednesday, leaving the jury to begin its deliberations. It is unclear why Rodriguez and Hill have decided to now change their pleas to guilty. A lawyer for Rodriguez did not respond to CoinDesks request for comment by press time. The pair have made several bids to have the case against them tossed out. After U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche sent a memo to Department of Justice (DOJ) staff informing them that the DOJ would no longer be pursuing criminal cases against crypto companies involving regulatory violations or the acts of their end users, lawyers for Samourai Wallet asked the government to drop their case something prosecutors seemingly considered for at least two weeks before deciding to move forward despite the Blanche memo. Lawyers for the defense also attempted to have the case thrown out in the wake of revelations that prosecutors allegedly withheld evidence from the defense that lawyers for the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) didnt think Samourai Wallet qualified as a money transmitter and thus would not be required to register as such. Prosecutors denied that their late disclosure violated the defendants due-process rights, telling the court that legal opinions are not Brady material. Read More: DOJ Considering Criminal Charges Against Dragonfly Capital Employees for Years-Old Tornado Cash Investments SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) San Diego City Attorney Heather Ferbert held a press conference Monday to announce the successful resolution of a civil suit that shut down The Secret Yard Hookah Lounge in Logan Heights. Ferbert says the business was operating more like an illegal nightclub on Logan Avenue and selling liquor and hosting parties with DJs well past 2 a.m. San Diego Police say officers were called out more than 200 times in three years for violations and complaints from residents including code violations, illegal gun sales, fights, attempted murder and even a homicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im happy to say its few and far between where youre going to see an establishment like this. I havent seen one like this in my career, said Police Chief Scott Wahl in response to the number of times the operators ignored violations and disregarded the safety of patrons and the community. People coming and going were buying and selling guns, Chief Wahl said. It begins to creep and get worse and worse from there. When you look at the overall impact and the calls of service we were getting from this place, it was causing a negative impact in this neighborhood. This is a win for the Logan Heights community. Ferbert says the defendants will pay more than $100,000 in penalties and other costs and be on the hook for more than $1 million if they violate any part of the judgement. If there was a rule to be broken with this place they found a way to break it, added Wahl. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) As San Diego ends its long-standing policy of free trash collection, thousands of homeowners and renters are caught in a scramble for service, with time running out and options running low. The city recently notified many condominium and apartment complexes that they will no longer be eligible for municipal trash pickup. Those affected now face the burden of finding and paying for private waste collection by Aug. 1, or risk losing service. As a property manager for HOAs, Im getting phone calls from homeowners who are very concerned, said Gina Bigilone, a condo property manager overseeing a dozen properties across the city. Theyve received what they say are threatening letters from the City of San Diego warning them their trash service will be cut off. Under the new system, residents will have to pay out of pocket, with some private companies charging around $43 per unit, per month. For Bigilones properties, she says the monthly bill is reaching $500 or more. When we call the companies, Republic, EDCO, Waste Management, even the smaller ones, were being told theyre at capacity, Bigilone said. Sometimes we dont even get a reply, or no one picks up the phone. The switch to private hauling is part of San Diegos move toward an open-market waste collection model, intended to increase competition and improve service. But with providers stretched thin, HOAs say the transition is happening too fast. Its actually pretty stressful, Bigilone said. Ive kind of lost sleep over it because I have homeowners who are stressed out. Theyre calling, theyre emailing, theyre really worried their trash is going to get cut off. While the city has said it wont cut service for those making good-faith efforts to secure a private hauler, Bigilone says shes been asked to submit rejection letters from waste companies as proof her properties are actively trying. They asked me to provide the rejection letters, she said. And with those, the city has agreed to continue service, at least for now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City officials say that the policy change will benefit residents in the long run. But with haulers still at capacity and HOAs in limbo, many San Diegans are asking whether the city should have slowed the rollout. In a statement, Max Walther representing Council Member Stephen Whitburn said: Our office does not have the authority to direct the citys Environmental Service Departments to provide service to properties that do not meet the eligibility criteria for the new trash collection regulations. Weve been actively working with several complexes on whether theyre eligible or not. We encourage those affected to continue to reach out to our office or to the citys collection services department at 858-694-7000 or trash@sandiego.gov. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. ANDERSON COUNTY, Texas (KETK) As the water rights controversy continues to grow, several chicken farms in East Texas, including Sanderson Farms, have filed a lawsuit against the Neches and Trinity Valleys Groundwater Conservation District. The lawsuit follows the districts transfer of the permits for Redwater Ranch and Pine Bliss LLC to drill into East Texas aquifers and extract billions of gallons of water, intended for use in the Dallas metroplex. The permit has caused many farmers across East Texas to grow worried about the future of their livelihoods, prompting nine farms to come together and take legal action to prevent the permit from being implemented. Smith County resident elected as Republican chairmen president Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plaintiffs in the lawsuit are requesting that the court invalidate the districts drilling permit application and issue a temporary injunction preventing the district from engaging in any further activities related to drilling permit applications. In a court document, the plaintiffs stated that their motivation for the lawsuit is to prevent these kinds of issues from arising again, thereby avoiding further water rights controversies. Addressing these fatal errors on the front end ensures the precious time and resources spent by all are not wasted if a decision on the application is later overturned and the process must be repeated, court documents stated. The Neches and Trinity Valleys Groundwater Conservation District was created to conserve and protect groundwater within its boundaries. The district is also a governmental entity, responsible for regulating groundwater to prevent overuse and wasteful usage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court documents stated that Redtown Ranch Holding LLC and Pine Bliss LLC are collectively seeking permits to drill 43 wells in East Texas, which would produce 15,347,520,000 gallons of water per year. Both companies are reportedly planning to export and sell the water drained from the aquifers for profit. On June 19, the districts board of directors held a public meeting at Jacksonville City Hall to discuss the applications. Although public officials, business operators and residents voiced unanimous opposition to the application, the board of directors considered and approved Redtown Ranch and Pine Blisss request that the application and opposition be transferred to the State Office of Administrative Hearing for a determination after the expiration of 90 days. The plaintiffs are now arguing that several members of the board approved the application because they had a financial interest in the project. Kyle Bass, a Dallas-based hedge fund manager which legal documents argue manipulated the districts process to his advantage, which the plaintiffs believe is detrimental to East Texas communities. According to court documents, during the initial stages of the process, Bass hired board member David Foster to drill more than 40 high-capacity wells, creating a perceived conflict of interest that ultimately led to Fosters resignation from the board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the applications were filed in 2024, Donald Foster was a member of the districts board of directors and is president of Andrews and Fosters, a company associated with Redtown Ranch and Pine Bliss. Andrews and Fosters were involved in drilling high-capacity wells during the initial stages of the project. Due to Fosters involvement with Andrews and Fosters, the plaintiffs believe that his membership on the board is a conflict of interest. Despite Mr. Fosters business relationship with Redtown Ranch and Pine Bliss, Mr. Foster attended closed executive sessions on multiple occasions where the applications were discussed before he finally abstained from participating and voting on April 17, 2025, court documents said. AFFIDAVIT: Man flees from Tyler PD after cashing stolen lottery tickets A few days before the June 19 public hearing, Foster resigned from the board of directors, according to court documents, stating that he wishes to continue his involvement in the project, which indicates a financial interest in the project. Landowners argue that Foster would have remained on the board if not for public outcry, despite the obvious conflict of interest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plaintiffs are also arguing that the approval of the applications should be invalidated due to the involvement of Board of Directors member Sean Conner. Conner seconded the motion to approve the applications. However, the lawsuit says he is ineligible to serve as a member of the board because he is currently serving as a councilmember for the City of Palestine. Due to allegations of conflict of interest against members of the board, who are deemed ineligible to participate, the plaintiffs are disputing the approval of the proposal and requesting that the board restart its permitting process and officially remove Conner from the board. The farms involved in the lawsuit include: Wayne-Sanderson Farms , which operates significant business activities in Anderson County and is owned by Sanderson Farms, LLC, which manages poultry processing and feed mill operations within the jurisdiction of the Neches and Trinity Valleys Groundwater Conservation District. This LLC relies on existing permitted groundwater wells to support its operations and utilizes the well production used by its poultry growers to raise and supply chickens for its industrial activities. 4K Farms is an individually owned poultry farm located in Cherokee County, which encompasses 115 acres overlying the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer. The farm raises chickens to produce fertilized eggs, which are then provided to growers farms. Before starting his poultry operations, the owner had three groundwater wells drilled on his property at a significant cost and relies on groundwater from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer to meet both personal and business needs. Parker Farms , located in Henderson County, owns 156 acres over the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer system and operates a poultry farm that raises approximately 750,000 chickens annually for public consumption. The owners had two groundwater wells drilled on their property prior to beginning their poultry business. Shannon Rodell operates a poultry farm on 65 acres overlying the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer, where he raises about 800,000 chickens each year. He had drilled three groundwater wells before starting his operations. ARC Cattle & Poultry , based in Hopkins County, owns land over the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer and operates a poultry farm raising more than 1.25 million chickens per year for public consumption. The owner had three groundwater wells drilled before commencing his operations. Thuy Tien Farm, LLC, located in Leon County, owns approximately 30 acres of land over the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer system. This poultry farm raises around 864,000 chickens annually for public consumption. Phamily LLC operates in Anderson County, where it owns 228 acres overlying the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer system, raising about one million chickens per year for public consumption. Circle S Farms owns 60 acres of real property overlying the Carrizo Wilcox Aquifer and raises around 1.2 million chickens per year for public consumption. The owner drilled three groundwater wells and relies on the groundwater from the Carrizo Wilcox Aquifer to supply his personal and business operation needs. Earl Land and Russell Land operate a business in Anderson County on their 1,200-acre property, where they raise more than a million chickens annually for public consumption. They drilled two groundwater wells. The water is used for their personal and business operations, and they utilize it for their cattle business, which typically has around 100 to 200 animals at any given time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. Sanford, Maine Police Chief Eric Small. (Photo via City of Sanford) The Sanford police chief is running to represent southern Maine in the U.S. House of Representatives. Republican Eric Small is challenging incumbent U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree for Maines 1st Congressional District in the November 2026 election, according to filings with the Federal Election Commission. The Democrat has held her seat since she was first elected in 2008. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We need someone with a new sense of urgency in Washington looking out for our great state, Small told Maine Morning Star in an email Tuesday. He went on to say that as a career law enforcement officer, he has seen firsthand how homelessness, mental illness and substance use disorder are devastating communities, while Washington offers more politics than progress. We need to restore trust in government, support law enforcement, and ensure that our most vulnerable neighbors get the help they need, not just lip service, Small added. He will first face at least three other candidates in the Republican primary on June 9, 2026. Two of the Republican challengers, Ron Russell and Andrew Piantidosi, ran against Pingree in 2024. Small will also face Joshua Duprey, who filed to run in mid-May, in the primary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a Facebook post last week, Small said he believes the federal government has a role in solving the national crises of substance use, mental health and homelessness without wasting taxpayer money. He added that he believes in personal responsibility and accountability, as well as strong borders, secure communities, and the freedom to live without government overreach. Smalls law enforcement career began in 2001 at the Berwick Police Department where he spent seven years before moving to the Sanford Police Department, according to reporting from the Sanford Springvale News. He served as deputy chief before being appointed to lead the department last October. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) The San Angelo Police Department advised drivers to avoid a section of westbound East Houston Harte Expressway due to a motor vehicle accident after a car appeared to have flipped during the afternoon of July 28. A Nixle alert issued by the San Angelo Police Department at 3:22 p.m. on July 28 advised motorists to avoid the 1400 block of westbound East Houston Harte Expressway just before the North Bell Street bridge due to a motor vehicle accident. Trucks towing trailers collide on Sherwood Way, injure 1 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Concho Valley Homepage reporter observed a silver, four-door car in the median of East Houston Harte Expressway within the area described by the SAPD. The vehicle sustained apparent damage and appeared to have come to a rest in an upside-down position. First responders, including the SAPD and San Angelo Fire Department, were observed to be at the scene. Concho Valley Homepage has reached out to the SAPD and the Texas Department of Public Safety for statements regarding the incident. This is a developing story. Stick with Concho Valley Homepage for updates as more information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com. July 28 (UPI) -- NASA and India plan to deploy a satellite that will map the Earth down to a centimeter after a launch on Wednesday from the Asian nation's southeastern coast. The rocket launch by the Indian Space Research Organization is scheduled from the Satish Dhawan Space Center on an island at 5:40 p.m. local time, NASA said in a news release Monday. The launch broadcast will begin at 7 a.m. EDT on Wednesday from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California on the YouTube channel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The satellite, about the length of a pickup truck, will circle Earth 14 times each day, scanning virtually all the planet's land and ice surfaces twice every 12 days. This is the first of its kind dual-radar using an L-band and S-band. This an artists concept depicting the NISAR satellite in orbit over central and Northern California. The spacecraft will survey all of Earths land and ice-covered surfaces twice every 12 days.Photo by NASA/JPL-Caltech The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar will map the Earth in 3D with the different radar frequencies to measure changes in Earth's surface, NASA said. "The satellite's ability to 'see' through clouds and light rain, day and night, will enable data users to continuously monitor earthquake- and landslide-prone areas and determine how quickly glaciers and ice sheets are changing," NASA said in a list of things to know about the mission. "It also will offer unprecedented coverage of Antarctica, information that will help with studying how the continent's ice sheet changes over time." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This data will provide high-resolution data for communities and scientists to monitor major infrastructure and agricultural fields that will "refine understanding of natural hazards such as landslides and earthquakes, and help teams prepare for and respond to disasters like hurricanes, floods, and volcanic eruptions," NASA said in a news release. Managed by Caltech in Pasadena, JPL leads the U.S.portion of the project and provided the L-band SAR. JPL also provided other aspects of the system, including the radar reflector antenna, the deployable boom, GPS receivers. NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., will receive NISAR's L-band data. By Michelle Nichols UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) -Saudi Arabia and France on Tuesday called on countries at the United Nations to support a declaration that outlines "tangible, timebound, and irreversible steps" towards implementing a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. The seven-page declaration is the result of an international conference at the U.N. this week - hosted by Saudi Arabia and France - on the decades-long conflict. The United States and Israel boycotted the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We call on you to support this document before the end of the 79th session of the General Assembly by contacting the missions of Saudi Arabia and France in New York," Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud told the conference on Tuesday. The 80th U.N. General Assembly is due to start in September. The first step outlined in the declaration is to end the 22-month war between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas in the Gaza Strip. "Following the ceasefire, a transitional administrative committee must be immediately established to operate in Gaza under the umbrella of the Palestinian Authority," it reads. The Palestinian Authority currently exercises limited self-rule in the West Bank under Israeli occupation. The declaration supports the deployment of a temporary international stabilization mission, mandated by the U.N. Security Council, and welcomes "the readiness expressed by some member states to contribute troops." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It calls on Israel's leadership to "issue a clear public commitment to the two-state solution, including a sovereign and viable Palestinian State," to immediately end violence and incitement against Palestinians, and to halt all settlement, land grabs, and annexation activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including East Jerusalem. The declaration commits to adopting restrictive measures against violent extremist settlers and those who support illegal settlements, and adopting targeted measures "against entities and individuals acting against the principle of the peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine, through violence or acts of terrorism, and in breach of international law." It also describes regional integration and independent Palestinian statehood as "intertwined objectives." "Only by ending the war in Gaza, releasing all hostages, ending occupation, rejecting violence and terror, realizing an independent, sovereign, and democratic Palestinian State, ending the occupation of all Arab territories and providing solid security guarantees for Israel and Palestine, can normal relations and coexistence among the regions peoples and States be achieved," it reads. (Reporting by Michelle Nichols; Editing by Daniel Wallis) It was just after 7am when I received a phone message that a Labour cabinet minister had accused me, live on TV, of being in bed with Britains most infamous paedophile, Jimmy Savile. Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Science, told Sky News that, because Reform UK wants to abolish the Online Safety Act, I was on the side of predators and pornographers. Make no mistake about it, Kyle assured the somewhat gobsmacked interviewer, if people like Jimmy Savile were alive today he would be perpetrating his crimes online and Nigel Farage is saying that he is on their side, not the side of children Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How low can these people go? How desperate must Labour be to imagine that smearing me in such a disgusting way will help their losing cause? We asked Kyle for an apology for his revolting slander. Instead, like the worst kind of online troll, this sorry excuse for a British secretary of state simply doubled down on the abuse. If you want to overturn the Online Safety Act, he tweeted, you are on the side of predators. Its as simple as that. No minister, it is not as simple as that, far from it. All of this is of course a deflection from the real problem with the Online Safety Act, proudly passed by the previous Tory government and enthusiastically enforced by Keir Starmers Labour. Like Big Brothers Ministry of Truth in 1984, this Orwellian law does the exact opposite of what it claims. In the name of safety, the Act poses the biggest threat to freedom of speech in this country in our lifetimes. In the name of protecting children, the law aims to regulate what adults are allowed to say or see while doing nothing to make our children safer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is why Reform UK is pledged to repealing the Online Safety Act. The Act gives the official state regulator, Ofcom, the power to impose huge fines if big tech platforms fail to do enough to censor what can be said on social media. This week the final section demanding age verification for accessing adult content online came into force. These apparently well-intentioned checks enforce mandatory ID scans, not just for porn sites, but also for mainstream social media where political or any other content is deemed potentially harmful. This erosion of privacy could make it easier to identify online critics of government policy on migration and much else. If the Governments priority online is truly protecting the children, then why has the Home Office set up a new elite squad of police officers to monitor social media for anti-migrant sentiment, as reported in The Telegraph this week? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also seems suspicious that the Labour Government is so keen to protect teenagers from receiving harmful political messages, at the same time as it wants to grant 16- and 17-year-olds the right to vote. These checks wont prevent enterprising youngsters from accessing adult sites anyway. The number of people in the UK signing up for a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which allows them to sidestep ID scans and parental controls, has soared. And once teenagers are prompted to get a VPN, they can even use it to access the murky depths of the dark web. It should surely come as a shock to nobody that teenagers know how the internet works better than the dinosaurs who drafted and enforce this worse-than-useless law. The dangers inherent in the Online Safety Act dont end with ID checks. The extraordinarily wide-ranging Section 179 makes it an offence to publish false content which causes non-trivial psychological harm. Who is to decide what speech is false or harmful? Like the Roman once asked, who censors the censor? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We already know that coverage of recent protests at a hotel housing illegal migrants in Leeds has been censored, along with posts criticising the Governments soft migration policies and exposing the truth about Britains mainly-Muslim rape gangs. Social media platforms such as X/Twitter, Facebook and Instagram are compelled to censor such potentially harmful content proactively. If they fail to crack down fast and hard enough, Ofcom can fine them up to 10 per cent of their worldwide revenues and prosecute the managers. Little wonder that their inclination is to censor first and ask questions later. And there could be worse to come. Section 44 of the Act empowers the secretary of state to unilaterally order Ofcom to make its rules even tougher. In future, what the British people are permitted to say could be dictated at the whim of a government minister. The secretary of state who oversees Ofcom today? Peter Kyle. Do you want the minister for political slander setting the rules for what can be said on social media? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Passed by Tories, enforced by Labour, the execrable Online Safety Act is an indictment of the establishment uniparty and the contempt it has for our liberties. We saw last summer how, after the murder of three young girls in Southport, the suppression of the full facts only stoked the fires of social unrest. I bow to nobody in my determination to protect families and children. But I will not allow the Government to hide behind children while attacking the fundamental British value of freedom of speech and the liberty to tell the truth. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles unveiled a new driver's license and identification card design Tuesday, July 29, 2025. (Photo provided by SCDMV) COLUMBIA South Carolinas new drivers license will feature state symbols, including yellow jessamine, the Carolina wren and the loggerhead sea turtle, an homage to the states flora and fauna. In addition to the Palmetto State imagery, the new design released Tuesday will contain more than 40 advanced security features, according to the state Department of Motor Vehicles. Residents with licenses wont need to get an updated card until their existing one expires. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles unveiled a new drivers license and identification card design Tuesday, July 29, 2025. (Photo provided by SCDMV) These new licenses and ID cards showcase the Palmetto State while providing citizens with greater protection against becoming victims of identity fraud, DMV Director Kevin Shwedo said in a statement. We hope that South Carolinians will look on these new designs with pride and confidence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The official designations for the imagery on the cards date to 1924, when the Legislature made the yellow jessamine the state flower. Fifteen years later, the South Carolina palmetto or, technically, the sabal palmetto became the state tree. The Carolina wren has been the state bird since 1948. The loggerhead sea turtle, featured on the back of licenses issued to drivers under 21, is the most recent symbol in the design. It became the state reptile in 1988. The new licenses, beginners permits and identification cards are made of stronger material that wont peel apart. Use of laser engraving and multicolor printing makes them more difficult to counterfeit, said agency spokesman Mike Fitts. The state will continue to print vertical cards for drivers under the age of 21, as has been practice in the state since 2010. For teens and young adults, their licenses will give the dates when they turn 18 and 21 years old. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles unveiled a new drivers license and identification card design Tuesday, July 29, 2025. (Photo provided by SCDMV) Unlike the current system, in which a person visiting a DMV office can get with a license or ID before walking out the door, the cards will be made at secure production facilities and sent out in the mail within seven to 15 business days. This method is already used in 45 other states, according to the DMV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents will be sent home with temporary certificates, valid for up to 30 days, as they wait for their permanent ID to arrive. To help ensure the cards reach the appropriate destination, the DMV will require customers to verify their addresses when they apply. And the temporary certificate will include a QR code that can be used to track the processing of a license or ID card, Fitts previously told the SC Daily Gazette. The new cards and process for will begin in late August, starting at two Midlands locations: Shop Road in Columbia and Lexingtons Park Road branch. A statewide rollout to the other 63 locations is expected later in the fall, according to the agency. Residents are urged not to wait until their licenses expiration date to renew them, to allow time for mail delivery. The DMV sends renewal notices by mail 90 days prior to expiration of a customers current card. License fees will remain the same: An eight-year license is $25. And IDs for people 17 and older are still free. Two large dogs believed to have attacked people walk through Harbison State Forest, as seen on a trail camera. (Provided by the SC Forestry Commission) COLUMBIA Harbison State Forest reopened Tuesday, two weeks after closing so officials could track down aggressive dogs that attacked joggers. The forest parking lot will be open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the same hours as the forests office. Previously, visitors could arrive as early as sunrise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A nearby homeowner shot and killed one of the two dogs believed to have attacked two joggers. Law enforcement officers patrolling the 2,100-acre forest have found no trace of the second dog in the forest since soon after the attacks, according to a news release. Officials from the Forestry Commission, Department of Natural Resources and local law enforcement agencies used trail cameras, drones with heat-detecting technology and a state helicopter to search for the dogs after an attack sent Columbia attorney Winston Holliday to the hospital. Holliday, a frequent jogger in the forest, received 17 stitches for dog bites on his arm and leg. A 19-year-old jogger also reported dogs cornering him, but he escaped uninjured. One of the traps officials set up in the forest captured a docile stray dog, but officials have spotted no other canines running loose, according to the Forestry Commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Visitors to the forest should remain cautious and stay aware of their surroundings, the state Forestry Commission said. Anyone who encounters an aggressive dog should stay calm and avoid making sudden movements or running away, since the dog is likely to chase. Instead, turn so your body isnt directly facing the dog without losing sight of it and back away slowly until you can put a barrier between yourself and the dog, the Forestry Commission said. Distracting the dog with food scattered on the ground can give a person time to get away, and citronella-based sprays can deter dogs from attacking, according to the Forestry Commission. JASPER COUNTY, S.C. (WSAV) Detailing a crisis of confidence in the Jasper County Schoolboard, the State Superintendent of Educations office has placed the District under a State of Education Emergency. This means the Jasper County Schoolboard can be dissolved and the District could be taken over by the State. In a letter sent to Jasper County Schoolboard Chairperson Joyce Gerald on July 28, State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver writes I have concluded that declaring a state-of-education emergency is the only responsible path forward to safeguard the interests of Jasper County School Districts (JCSD) students and ensure effective use of public resources. JASPER COUNTY SCHOOLS EMAILDownload Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This decision comes just two weeks after a 38-page State Inspector Generals Office report requested by Superintendent Weaver was finished. The biggest takeaway of the report is possible fraudulent activity involving positions and money by former school superintendent Dr. Rechel Anderson. The investigators found a variety of issues, including Anderson and the school district were delinquent or didnt file several yearly mandated state audits. The report also details employment conflict of interest concerns that went unnoticed by JCSD Board and tainted the accreditation process for JCSD. Jasper County Schools are currently under an accreditation review by the S.C. Department of Education to determine the extent of the impact according to Weaver. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are also questions about whether Dr. Anderson lived in the district and if she may have even forged documents to make it look like she had a home in the county. Either would be a violation. Investigators say she used her position to help Cognia, a school accreditation agency. At the time in question, she was being paid thousands of dollars by the company. The Inspector Generals report details a pattern of misconduct that went unaddressed for years. It concluded that the Board lacked oversight and basic contract management of the employment contract with Anderson. Anderson was in charge of the district for seven years before being suspended last year and then eventually released from her contract by the board in March. She received a settlement for more than $336,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation has been turned over to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) for possible criminal charges. The failures detailed in the Inspector Generals report, among others according to Weaver, create a crisis of confidence in the Boards ability to adequately manage and oversee the Districts fiscal dilemmas and provide a clear path forward for the future of Jasper students. Weaver has formally requested that the South Carolina Board of Education (SBE) approve the declaration of a state of education emergency. The SBE will consider this at its next meeting August 5. Weavers letter says District representatives may attend and observe the public portion of the meeting but the statute does not grant JCSD the right to participate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once the SBE has voted, the JCSD Board can appeal the decision within 10 days. Weaver also says the JCSD should not hire a new superintendent without the South Carolina Department of Educations approval. Dr. Sam Whack has been the acting Superintendent since August 2024. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. Beware: A sinister new scam is sweeping across Facebook, turning trusted friends into unwitting accomplices in a plot to steal your money. It all begins with a seemingly innocent message from someone you know, lulling you into a false sense of security before revealing a cunning trap designed to drain your finances. This rapidly spreading threat preys on trust and familiarity, demonstrating just how easily your social circle can become the gateway for sophisticated cyber theft. Could your next message from a friend be a wolf in sheeps clothing? How the How Are You Facebook Scam Works This impersonation scam is currently compromising over 200 million individuals, leveraging hijacked Facebook accounts to ensnare unsuspecting victims. The insidious fraud typically begins with a seemingly innocuous message, often a simple How are you doing today? While it appears to originate from a familiar friend or relative, the sender is, in fact, a cybercriminal who has seized control of their digital identity. Once in control, the fraudster uses the stolen identity to send messages to the victims contacts, offering what appear to be irresistible dealsthink government grants, hot tubs at deep discounts, or even trucks up for grabs. These offers are anything but genuine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cybersecurity experts warn that the use of real names, profile photos, and friend lists makes the ruse feel authentic. Many victims dont realize theyve been targeted until money is already lost. Often, the scam kicks off with a phishing message claiming the users account has been compromised, urging them to reset their password via a link. That link, however, leads to a fake site designed to steal login credentials. Once scammers are inside, they ramp up the deception. A popular ploy involves offering a bogus $150,000 government grantif the victim first pays a $2,500 processing fee. Some perpetrators further legitimize their schemes by creating elaborate fake product listings, complete with staged photographs of cash piles or packaged boxes. Cybersecurity advisor Claudiu Popa highlights the psychological manipulation at play, noting, Users are told the offer is real and time-sensitive. They are pressured to act quickly and trust the person messaging them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This tactic masterfully combines urgency, fabricated visual evidence, and emotional language to manipulate targets into compliance. Should a victim express skepticism regarding an offer, the scammers swiftly sever communication, blocking the individual and deleting all incriminating chat history. Real Encounters with the How Are You Facebook Scam In one recent case reported by Fox News, a retired tech worker named Jim found himself on the verge of losing thousands after receiving a message from a Facebook friend about a supposed grant opportunity from a group called Global Empowerment. The message claimed the friend had already received her payout and encouraged Jim to contact an agent named David Kelvin. The agent wasted no time. He told Jim he qualified for a $150,000 grantbut only if he first paid a $2,500 processing fee. To make the scam more convincing, the agent even sent a photo of a FedEx box allegedly packed with cash. But when Jim hesitated, the conversation mysteriously disappeared. The scammer had deleted the chat. Jim later recalled that something didnt sit right. Thats when I started to doubt the story, he said, pointing to subtle red flags like odd phrasing and grammatical errorsparticularly the use of words like informations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another victim, Lesa Lowery from New Brunswick, fell into a similar trapbut this one started with an email that looked like it came straight from Facebook security. The message warned her of suspicious activity and urged her to reset her password. Trusting it, Lesa entered both her old and new credentialsaccidentally handing full access to scammers. While she could still view public parts of her profile, she was completely locked out of her private messages and control over the account. I just felt helpless, she told CBCs Go Public. I literally sat there and cried. Facebooks Growing Security Gaps Are Fueling the Scam Surge Experts say Facebooks ongoing security issues are helping scammers thrive. Past data breaches have left millions of users exposedand opened the door for more sophisticated attacks. Just last year, hackers infiltrated YX International, a third-party vendor Facebook uses to send login verification texts. The breach reportedly impacted around 50 million users. That same month, another major incident surfaced: over 200,000 user records from Facebook Marketplace were leaked and shared on a hacker forum, according to cyber news outlet HackRead. The exposed data included personal details, making it easier for scammers to tailor their schemes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To make matters worse, cybersecurity researchers have found that phishing kits like RaccoonO365 are now being sold as easy-to-use services. These tools can steal login credentials and even bypass two-factor authentication, once considered a strong safeguard for online accounts. Two-factor authentication works by requiring a second stepusually a code sent to a users phone or emailto confirm identity during login. But with advanced phishing kits in circulation, even this extra layer of protection isnt foolproof anymore. How to Protect Yourself from Facebook Scams With scams growing more convincing by the day, cybersecurity experts urge users to take proactive steps to protect their accounts and personal information. Their top advice? Start with the basics: always use strong, unique passwords for each online account and enable two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security. Be cautious when it comes to unsolicited emails or messageseven if they appear to come from friends, government agencies, or familiar platforms like Facebook. Never click on links or share personal details unless youre certain the source is legitimate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Experts also recommend installing trusted antivirus software, keeping an eye on your identity through monitoring services, and even going a step further by removing your details from people search and data broker websites. Also, remember the clear guidance from the Federal Trade Commission: no legitimate government grant program will ever ask you to pay a fee to receive money. And if someone claiming to represent Facebook or the FTC asks for your password, login code, or any kind of paymentits a scam, plain and simple. Sources: The Daily Mail, Fox News, CBC Read the original article on GEEKSPIN. Affiliate links on GEEKSPIN may earn us and our partners a commission. Florida schools could soon deploy the Campus Guardian Angel drone system to help police defend against shootings. School shootings are prevalent in America, especially in states such as Florida. The state has documented more than 60 school shooting incidents since 2018, local ABC affiliate WTXL reported, citing the K-12 School Shooting Database. Nikolas Cruz, 19, opened fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland in February 2018. A total of 17 people were killed and 17 more were injured. Cruz was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new drone technology could help prevent such tragedies by deploying drones to schools in seconds and providing police with immediate situational awareness, according to WTXL, which reported on the program. Florida schools could soon deploy the 'Campus Guardian Angel,' a drone system that can help police defend against shootings (Getty) On Monday, the program was demonstrated at the Leon County Schools District Security Center. The drones live-streamed video, and one even knocked down a dummy to show its ability to use force to delay a threat. The pilot program has $557,000 in state funding behind it, but Leon County Schools Superintendent Rocky Hanna told WTXL the cost to fully implement the system past the pilot could be more than $1 million. I think anytime you make an investment you have to think of the return on that investment. So, as we are hiring an additional deputy sheriff in all of our high schools, so we have security monitors in all of our schools, Hanna said. School shootings are prevalent in America especially in states such as Florida (AFP/Getty) He continued: We have a weapons detection dogthat comes with the price tag. We have AI software in our cameras. All that comes at a price point, and so its us managing that budget and trying to figure out where were getting the biggest bang for our buck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state funding for the pilot program will cover its implementation in three school districts, according to the local outlet. Leon County is being considered. In April, some of the students who survived the Parkland shooting had to endure another school shooting at Florida State University. The suspected gunman, Phoenix Ikner, has been accused of killing two people and injuring six more. His defense attorney entered a not guilty plea on his behalf. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) blasted the trade deal negotiated between the United States and the European Union over the weekend, calling it fake. The trade deal sets tariffs on European goods at 15 percent, half the rate Trump had previously threatened on the continent. In exchange, the EU has pledged to buy $750 billion in American energy over the next three years. Trump would have you believe its the biggest deal ever, Schumer complained. Europe has admitted that this agreement isnt legally binding, and they have no control over whether these investments even happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Europe is presumably avoiding a trade war with the U.S., several leading figures condemned the deal. French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou called Sunday a dark day in a post on the social platform X. Schumer compared the agreement to Trumps deal with Japan, where the U.S. has imposed a 15 percent tariff in exchange for $550 billion in Japanese investments in American sectors. It is not clear what those exact investments would entail. The deal with Europe was reached days before Trumps postured deadline of Aug. 1, when his threatened levies are generally scheduled to take place. American trade representatives have fanned across the globe to attempt to make deals with countries as the president has continued dialing tariffs up and down. Schumer was also among the Democratic senators who sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Monday criticizing the administrations reversal on allowing certain high-powered computer chips to be sold to China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Smith Island, Maryland, home to around 200 people, is vanishing. In a recent "60 Minutes" segment, scientists and residents revealed how quickly rising sea levels are reshaping the landscape and how human-driven pollution is playing a role. What's happening? Once a thriving community on the Chesapeake Bay, this centuries-old island is now losing up to 12 feet of shoreline each year because of rising sea levels and erosion, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Smith Island Environmental Restoration report. "Right now, we're expecting in Maryland to see an increase in sea level rise by 1 to 2 feet by 2050 and more than 4 feet by 2100," Chesapeake Bay Foundation CEO Hilary Harp Falk said in the segment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This sea level rise is driven by the melting of glaciers and ice sheets as well as the thermal expansion of ocean water. The Washington Informer reported that it is also worsened by local land subsidence. To hold back the water, islanders are adapting where they can. For instance, interagency partners have built jetties and stone sills that can slow erosion, prevent shoaling, and reduce dredging needs. Why is Smith Island important? Smith Island's story illustrates the long-term consequences of human reliance on dirty energy. The burning of coal, oil, and gas continues to release heat-trapping pollution that accelerates sea level rise and threatens low-lying areas across the U.S. For Smith Island residents, these environmental changes may force them to become among the communities displaced because of pollution-driven sea level rise. Vital ecosystems including habitats for oysters, blue crabs, and migratory birds are also at risk, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As one Redditor commented: "This whole topic fascinates me. There is a lot of cool history on the eastern shore that has already washed away and continues to wash away." What's being done about the rising sea level on Smith Island? Groups like the Chesapeake Bay Foundation are working to restore the soil, reduce pollution, and improve resilience in the region. Community-led efforts are raising awareness and pushing for better flood protection, driven by community members' commitment to preserving their homes and heritage. Many are also calling for a broader public understanding of critical climate issues, especially as regions across the country face similar threats from rising seas and warming temperatures. Do you worry about air pollution in your town? All the time Often Only sometimes Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. New research has revealed a troubling link between a common bee behavior and environmental stressors. What's happening? As Earth.com reports, rising temperatures and pollutants in the air affect how bees buzz. The action is a method of communication and a means of pollinating certain plants. As Charlie Woodrow, a post-doctoral researcher at Uppsala University, explains, bees will curl around certain plants and contract their flight muscles hundreds of times a second to release pollen. Using cutting-edge technology, Woodrow studied bumblebees in Europe and found there was a much stronger link between temperature and their behavior than previously understood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This has many implications for how we study buzz pollination, as temperature is not really something that has been considered up to this point," he said. Why is changing bee behavior a concern? Buzz pollination is energy-intensive and produces metabolic heat. This means that the planet-heating pollution of dirty energy could have a profound impact on which plants bees will choose to pollinate in the future. As Woodrow explains, "If the environment gets too warm, it may simply choose to avoid buzz-pollinated flowers." Since plants rely on pollination to survive, that could mean a huge disruption in the balance of ecosystems. Similarly, later blooms driven by higher temperatures can throw off the timing of pollination. European and North American bee populations are dropping sharply and threatening the supply of many everyday staples. What's being done to protect bees? It's not all bad news. The insights gained from the research could help form the basis for future research into things such as robotic pollination, but the immediate priority is protecting bees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The best methods for supporting these vital pollinators begin at home. It can be as simple as rewilding a yard with native plants, which is not only a great way to keep those busy little bees buzzing, but it also saves time, money, and effort. Additionally, keeping track of critical climate issues and supporting local initiatives gives pollinators a fighting chance. Do you worry about air pollution in your town? All the time Often Only sometimes Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Farmers on the East Coast can now fight weeds with laser beams that work just as well as chemical sprays on peas, beets, and spinach. As Cornell University detailed, these smart machines move along crop rows, snap pictures, and use computer smarts to distinguish between crops and weeds. When it spots a weed, the machine fires a laser that kills only the unwanted plant without damaging nearby crops. Farmers can choose which weeds to target first, such as tiny ones growing right beside food plants that people might miss. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until now, these laser zappers were mostly used by West Coast growers, but scientists wondered if they'd be effective in East Coast fields with their unique soils and rainfall. Lynn Sosnoskie from Cornell and Thierry Besancon from Rutgers conducted field tests across New York and New Jersey to compare the machines with chemical weed killers. The researchers created test areas with four setups: one where weeds grew freely, another using regular weed chemicals, a third with just laser treatment, and a fourth combining both methods. They kept track of how plants emerged, grew, and how many weeds survived. Each test spot got laser treatments two or three times, with about 10 days between each pass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We wanted to know if laser weeders are going to perform as well as business as usual here on the East Coast, and it turns out, they can," Sosnoskie explained in the research paper, which was published in Pest Management Science. The findings showed that the laser method worked as well as, or better than, three common weed chemicals in killing annual weeds. Lasers did a good job on weeds like lambsquarters and ragweed, but had a harder time with purslane and grasses since their growing points are hidden underground. Compared to doing nothing, the laser treatments cut weed coverage by up to 45% and reduced weed numbers by as much as 66%. The laser approach was kinder to crops, too. While chemical sprays delayed the appearance of plants and slowed their growth, laser-treated crops showed almost no slowing (less than 1%) and grew up to 30% larger than those treated with chemicals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For farmers concerned about chemical costs and crop damage, and for organic growers who pay for hand-weeding, these machines are an alternative approach. At up to $1.5 million each, they're too pricey for most small farms right now, but three onion farms in New York are already using them. While experts refine these systems for different regions and weed types, new models with stronger lasers are hitting the market. This progress could reduce chemical use in farming and increase food production, making our meals and our planet healthier. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. [WATCH: In the video player above, swimming safety tips.] (WJW) Scientists are now tracking a newly tagged white shark measuring an impressive 12 feet 10 inches in length and weighing approximately 1,429 lbs. The tracking system provided by the non-profit OCEARCH shows the adult white shark named Baker was first tagged on July 21 in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia. PHOTO: Cedar Point floods amid storms, downpours Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to OCEARCH, efforts to track Baker are part of an ongoing study of white sharks during their summer and fall residency in Atlantic Canada, which is described as a key region for the species in the western North Atlantic. His presence in Canadian waters provides invaluable data on the migratory behaviors, habitat preferences, and overall ecology of mature white sharksan age group that remains less understood compared to juveniles, said OCEARCH. On Monday, OCEARCH shared an update on Facebook. Officials said Baker is one of five white sharks that have recently been tagged and released near Nova Scotia. Deer poachers ordered to pay nearly $120,000, issued worldwide hunting bans Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These sharks are now contributing valuable data to our Global Shark Tracker as we work to uncover more about their migration routes, health, and life history. Each animal tagged helps push our science forward and brings us one step closer to ensuring a balanced ocean for future generations, read the post. OCEARCH encourages facts over fear. The non-profit helps conduct research and provides education and outreach opportunities. You can learn more about OCEARCH and their work, here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KCAU) South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden announced a new public safety initiative on Monday in Sioux Falls. The Governor was surrounded by representatives from nearly every law enforcement agency operating in Sioux Falls. He unveiled two separate components of Operation Prairie Thunder. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first directs the Highway Patrol, the National Guard, and the Department of Corrections to work with ICE agents in the state. The second is what the Governor calls a targeted anti-crime initiative to go after illegal drugs, investigate gang activity, hold parole absconders accountable, and stop dangerous street racing. To find the full press release, which further explains what Operation Prairie Thunder is, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. An economic assistance application for the South Dakota Department of Social Services. (Photo illustration by Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight) Changes to Medicaid could leave thousands of South Dakotans uninsured and impair an already fragile rural health care system, advocates worry. But a concurrent $50 billion in federal funding for rural providers nationwide over the next five years could blunt the impact on the system. Thats a mixed bag for South Dakota, said Shelly Ten Napel, CEO of the Community HealthCare Association of the Dakotas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump signed changes into law earlier this month as part of his One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The changes to the state-federal health insurance program for people with low incomes aim to rid the system of fraud and waste and save the federal government $1 trillion over a decade, according to Republicans who supported the bill. The savings support tax cuts prioritized by Trump, along with new spending on immigration control and defense projects. The nonpartisan health research organization KFF estimated 13,000 South Dakotans could lose Medicaid coverage, primarily by failing to meet new work requirements. Combined with the expected expiration of the Obama-era Affordable Care Acts enhanced premium tax credits at the end of this year, the projected number of uninsured South Dakotans rises to about 20,000, according to KFF. Key changes to Medicaid aside from work requirements dont significantly affect South Dakota, state Department of Social Services officials said. The state doesnt rely on provider taxes capped in the law, doesnt have problems with deceased or duplicate people enrolled, they said, and uses a different type of payment model than other states. Medicaid Director Heather Petermann said South Dakotans should not despair. South Dakota is in a much different place, Petermann said. When people hear the news of doomsday is coming, but it reflects the kinds of cuts that are occurring for states that use other types of models or mechanisms to pay for Medicaid than South Dakota does, that projects fear instead of informing people that theres going to be a pathway for them. How work requirements will affect state government, hospitals South Dakota had proposed its own Medicaid work requirements, but Department of Social Services Secretary Matt Althoff said the state will withdraw those now that work requirements are included in the new federal law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By 2027, states must require able-bodied Medicaid enrollees to work or volunteer 80 hours a month or be in school at least half-time. Exemptions include people who are pregnant or postpartum, disabled, eligible for the Indian Health Service, and recently released from incarceration, among others. South Dakotans voted in 2022 to expand Medicaid to adults with incomes up to 138% of the poverty level. Most South Dakotans on expanded Medicaid already work or would meet the exemptions, according to Ten Napel. Shelly Ten Napel, CEO of the Community HealthCare Association of the Dakotas, participates in a debate about a Medicaid work requirements ballot measure during a forum on Sept. 19, 2024, at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell. (Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight) Its unfortunate there has to be a lot of administrative work just to confirm that, she said. The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services must release additional guidance by the end of this year, leaving a year before the work requirement implementation guideline. Althoff said hes confident South Dakota can meet the deadline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes unsure how the new requirements will affect the states budget, since itll mean an upgrade in technology and potentially more staff. The change requires Medicaid recipients to verify their eligibility more frequently. That is precisely why we want to lean in to technology, Althoff said. Can we do twice the workload of determinations with the equivalent amount of staff? Althoff told lawmakers on the states budgeting committee this month that he is unsure all of the federal dollars for one-time costs will meet the states needs for Medicaid changes. State officials arent sure how many South Dakotans will remain on Medicaid, especially because the change requires applicants to meet work requirements for four weeks prior to enrollment. As of June, 29,843 South Dakotans were enrolled in the expanded portion of the Medicaid population. There were 144,310 total Medicaid recipients in the state. South Dakota Department of Social Services Secretary Matt Althoff speaks at a public hearing regarding cuts to TANF benefits at the Sioux Falls One Stop on June 20, 2025. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight) Ten Napel urged caution, suggesting the state should apply for an extension to ensure the program is set up properly before its implemented. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where work requirements have been implemented in other states, weve seen a lot of checking in and people having to remember to do it and get paperwork done, Ten Napel said, and many people just drop out of coverage either because they dont understand the requirements or because of the complexity of other things happening in their lives. Tim Rave, CEO of the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations, said work requirements could also take a toll on providers. It could take two to three years before work requirements are fully implemented, Rave said. From there, if it impacts us as the models say it could, I think services will be cut, or potentially locations will close. We have to see how this all rolls out and what actual impacts are. Funding injection in rural health could soften cuts In a statement, representatives with Sioux Falls-based Sanford Health said the law introduces financial pressures for health systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twenty percent of hospitals in South Dakota run in the negative margin, according to Rave. Tim Rave, president and CEO of the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations, speaks at a Downtown Sioux Falls Rotary meeting in July 2025. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight) Obviously, every facility will do what they can to remain open, Rave said. Itll just be a matter of what services theyll be able to provide. Services most at risk in rural areas include maternal and womens health, behavioral health and dental, Ten Napel said. People who live in rural areas nationwide are more likely to have health insurance through Medicaid, which puts rural health facilities at risk of lost funding and a rise in unpaid care if patients lose coverage. Concern about rural health led to the creation of the $50 billion rural health fund in the Big Beautiful Bill Act. South Dakota is set to receive at least $100 million a year over the next five years, as long as the state submits a detailed rural health transformation plan. The state could receive more, based on how the rest of the funding is distributed to states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our budget is smaller than most states, so disproportionately, were probably impacted for the good, Rave said. It certainly doesnt have the sting it does in other states. Largest declines in federal Medicaid spending in rural areas would occur in states that expanded Medicaid and have higher shares of rural residents. (Courtesy of KFF) According to KFF, the largest declines in federal Medicaid spending will be in states with expanded Medicaid and higher shares of rural residents. While Kentucky will be impacted the most, losing a projected $12.3 billion, federal Medicaid spending in rural areas in South Dakota over the next decade will decrease by a projected $487 million. Questions remain, according to KFF, about how the funding will be distributed among states. The state and health providers plan to collaborate about how the funds can be used. Ten Napel said the money can be invested in training, recruitment and shoring up rural preventative and primary care access. How do we invest these resources so that in 10 years, were in a better place than we are today? Ten Napel said. We know investment in the front end can save money on the back end. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But that funding alone likely wont fully address the broader challenges rural providers will face, Sanford representatives said. We look forward to working closely with our state and federal elected officials, the statement read, to implement these changes in ways that protect access, support innovation and strengthen care for rural America. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Attorneys for Sean "Diddy" Combs have asked a federal judge to release him from jail ahead of his sentencing, scheduled for Oct. 3, saying that there are exceptional reasons why he shouldn't remain behind bars. Combs was convicted on July 2 on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution in a split verdict that acquitted him of two counts of sex trafficking and one count of racketeering conspiracy. In a letter Tuesday addressed to Judge Arun Subramanian, who presided over Combs' trial, attorneys for the rap music mogul argued that there were "exceptional reasons" that merited Combs' release, stating in part that the law under which Combs was convicted "has never been applied to facts similar to these to prosecute or incarcerate any other person. Paras Griffin/Getty Images - PHOTO: Sean "Diddy" Combs attends Day 1 of 2023 Invest Fest at Georgia World Congress Center on August 26, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. MORE: Sean 'Diddy' Combs sentencing set for October Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There has literally never been a case, like this one, where a person and his girlfriend arranged for adult men to have consensual sexual relations with the adult, long-term girlfriend as part of a demonstrated swingers lifestyle, and has been prosecuted and incarcerated under the Mann Act, the defense letter said. Sean Combs should not be in jail for this conduct." The 12-page letter proposes that Combs be released on $50 million bail and reside in his home in Miami while awaiting sentencing, with any travel "limited to the Southern District of Florida, the Southern District of New York for attorney meetings, as well as airports necessary to travel between the two." Though Combs was acquitted of the more serious sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy charges, Subramanian declined to release him on bail prior to sentencing, citing a provision in the transportation to engage in prostitution law that he said presumes detention. Combs has spent more than 10 months behind bars at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, since his arrest in Sept. 2024. His attorneys initially attempted and then discontinued efforts to secure an earlier sentencing date for him. Sean Diddy Combs is making yet another bid at bail as the Harlem-born mogul awaits sentencing his Oct. 3 sentencing on two prostitution-related charges. Lawyers for the 55-year-old convicted Bad Boy Records founder, who was recently denied pre-sentencing bail, argue that he should be released on $50 million bond and reside at his Miami home ahead of the Oct. 3 sentencing in Manhattan for two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, according to the filing viewed by the Daily News. Each offense carries a sentence of up to 10 years, for a total of 20 years behind bars, though Diddy is unlikely to serve anywhere near that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His lawyers state that no one in previous cases similar to Combs has been prosecuted or imprisoned under the Mann Act, and that those convicted in similar cases were released pending sentencing. Combs has been in custody at the federal Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn since his arrest in September after which he was continually denied bail which his attorneys also insist justif[ies] release. There has literally never been a case like this one, where a person and his girlfriend arranged for adult men to have consensual sexual relations with the adult long-term girlfriend as part of a demonstrated swingers lifestyle and has been prosecuted and incarcerated under the Mann Act, said Combs legal team, which highlighted the racism and misogyny central to the statutes 115-year-old initiation, when it was known as the White-Slave Traffic Act. Combs lawyers noted that, unlike most Mann Act defendants, he did not profit financially from engaging in transportation for prostitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In fact, he may be the only person currently in a United States jail or being any sort of john, and certainly the only person in jail for hiring adult male escorts for him and his girlfriend, when he did not even have sex with the escort himself, the motion says. The lawyers added that Diddy remains behind bars while all other parties involved including the sex workers, their agency and state witnesses Jane and Casandra Cassie Ventura walk free, as they should. They said theres a history of limited and restrained punishments for noncommercial Mann Act offenses, and that even more serious violations than Combs incurred typically less punitive punishment than what hes already served. The cases which involve defendants similarly situated to Mr. Combs have been released on bond pending sentencing, the lawyers said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to dubbing a nearly 11-month detention an exceptional circumstance, Combs lawyers argue his safety is constantly at risk at the notorious MDC, where conditions have been decried by a judge as unacceptable and dreadful. The lawyers insist that Combs is not a flight risk and pushed back against concerns he poses a danger. They point to a domestic violence program he enrolled in prior to his arrest: If released on conditions, Sean Combs will not be violent to anyone. He will not squander his second chance at life. In an order Tuesday afternoon, Manhattan Federal Judge Arun Subramanian gave prosecutors until Thursday to respond to the motion by Combs lawyers. Combs was acquitted this month on the more serious charges of federal sex trafficking and racketeering-related offenses, for which he could have faced life in prison. With Molly Crane-Newman NEW YORK Sean Diddy Combs is making yet another bid at bail as the Harlem-born mogul awaits sentencing his Oct. 3 sentencing on two prostitution-related charges. Lawyers for the 55-year-old convicted Bad Boy Records founder, who was recently denied presentencing bail, argue that he should be released on $50 million bond and reside at his Miami home ahead of the Oct. 3 sentencing in Manhattan for two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, according to the filing viewed by the Daily News. Each offense carries a sentence of up to 10 years, for a total of 20 years behind bars, though Diddy is unlikely to serve anywhere near that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His lawyers state that no one in previous cases similar to Combs has been prosecuted or imprisoned under the Mann Act, and that those convicted in similar cases were released pending sentencing. Combs has been in custody at the federal Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn since his arrest in September after which he was continually denied bail which his attorneys also insist justif[ies] release. There has literally never been a case like this one, where a person and his girlfriend arranged for adult men to have consensual sexual relations with the adult long-term girlfriend as part of a demonstrated swingers lifestyle and has been prosecuted and incarcerated under the Mann Act, said Combs legal team, which highlighted the racism and misogyny central to the statutes 115-year-old initiation, when it was known as the White-Slave Traffic Act. Combs lawyers noted that, unlike most Mann Act defendants, he did not profit financially from engaging in transportation for prostitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In fact, he may be the only person currently in a United States jail or being any sort of john, and certainly the only person in jail for hiring adult male escorts for him and his girlfriend, when he did not even have sex with the escort himself, the motion says. The lawyers added that Diddy remains behind bars while all other parties involved including the sex workers, their agency and state witnesses Jane and Casandra Cassie Ventura walk free, as they should. They said theres a history of limited and restrained punishments for noncommercial Mann Act offenses, and that even more serious violations than Combs incurred typically less punitive punishment than what hes already served. The cases which involve defendants similarly situated to Mr. Combs have been released on bond pending sentencing, the lawyers said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to dubbing a nearly 11-month detention an exceptional circumstance, Combs lawyers argue his safety is constantly at risk at the notorious MDC, where conditions have been decried by a judge as unacceptable and dreadful. The lawyers insist that Combs is not a flight risk and pushed back against concerns he poses a danger. They point to a domestic violence program he enrolled in prior to his arrest: If released on conditions, Sean Combs will not be violent to anyone. He will not squander his second chance at life. In an order Tuesday afternoon, Manhattan Federal Judge Arun Subramanian gave prosecutors until Thursday to respond to the motion by Combs lawyers. Combs was acquitted this month on the more serious charges of federal sex trafficking and racketeering-related offenses, for which he could have faced life in prison. ______ (Daily News writer Molly Crane-Newman contributed.) ________ New York State Police and State Park Police continued their search Monday for the remaining victim of a Wednesday night boat crash that killed two people on the upper Niagara River. That effort follows the recovery of the body of Natalie Sansivero, 46, of Grand Island, on Friday evening. Searchers made that recovery at about 7:30 p.m., roughly one mile from where the accident occurred. Authorities have also now confirmed that the 35-foot, 2015 Scout Boat, believed to have been piloted by Jerome Williams, 66, of Buffalo, slammed into the main water intake for the Niagara Falls Water Board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Water Board Chair Richard Sirianni confirmed Monday that the crash did some apparently minor damage to the water intake, but said the crash has not affected water distribution in the city. It did some damage to a ladder (used to service the water intake), so well need to replace that, Sirianni said. But it has not affected the operation of the intake. Sirianni said work crews had checked and replaced the warning lights on the intake just a few weeks ago and that U.S. Coast Guard investigators told the Water Board that the lights were working on the night of the accident. The Park Police Marine Bureau is conducting an investigation and accident reconstruction of the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Witnesses said the boat was traveling west on the upper river, just north of Navy Island, at around 9:40 p.m. on Wednesday when it slammed into the water intake. The force of the crash sheared off a piece of the boat, leaving debris hanging from the intake. The vessel was estimated to be traveling more than 43 knots (50 mph) when it slammed into the concrete structure. Witnesses said the crash sent Williams and Sansivero overboard and into the river, while the remains of the boat capsized. Boats from the U.S. Coast Guard, State Park Police, the Niagara and Erie county sheriffs offices, the town and city of Tonawanda Police Departments and the Grand Island and River Road fire departments all responded to the crash site. Helicopters from the Niagara and Erie county sheriffs offices also assisted in the search for the boaters. The boat was secured overnight to keep it from sinking and then lifted out of the water on Thursday. Divers from the Niagara County Sheriffs Office were able to search underneath the vessel at that time, but did not locate any signs of the victims. TIMOR SEA (WAVY) The search for a sailor assigned to the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) who may have gone overboard has been suspended, according to a statement from the U.S. Navy Wednesday. The U.S. Navy suspended the active search for a Sailor assigned to the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), effective 12:40 p.m. on July 30, 2025, according to the statement. The Sailor was reported missing July 28 while the ship was transiting the Timor Sea. The efforts concluded following an extensive search by the U.S. Navy and assets from the Australian Defence Force and Australian Border Force. The Sailors name is being withheld until 24 hours after next-of-kin notification is complete in accordance with Navy policy. The ship, and its carrier group, is currently participating in Talisman Sabre 25, a multinational exercise off the coast of Australia. Units are conducting search and rescue efforts in the Timor Sea,. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The search began Monday after a sailor was reported missing. According to a report from USNI News, the Australian Defense Force and Australian Border Force assisted the U.S. Navy in the search. USS George Washington departs for Japan USS George Washington forward-deployed to Japan last year for the second time, after spending six years at Newport News Shipbuilding for maintenance and updates. Continue to check WAVY.com for updates. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. A Seafair favorite is back: Seattle Fleet Week. Its a tradition that dates back to 1950 and is a chance for the public to meet sailors, tour ships, and more. Parade of Ships The celebration starts Tuesday with the Parade of Ships. Ships from the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, and the Seattle Fire Department fire boat parade around Elliott Bay before docking at Pier 46. It begins at 1 p.m. You can watch along the Seattle waterfront and listen to narration by tuning into 88.9 Log Boom Radio. You can stream it live here. This marks the sixth year that Mercer Island High Schools student-run radio station has brought Seafair to listeners across the region. Pier 46 Free Ship Tours U.S. Navy ships will be open for public tours from July 31 through August 3. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tours will happen daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tour lines may be cut earlier in the afternoon, depending on waiting times. When arriving for public tours at the U.S. Coast Guard Base Seattles Pier 46 event entry, all visitors will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant government-issued photo identification and pass through an airport-style security screening checkpoint. A temporary form of ID is not an acceptable form of identification. All visitors are subject to search prior to entering the event area. Flat-heeled, closed-toe shoes are required for tours aboard ships. Bags, strollers, and wheelchairs are not allowed, and there is no holding area for personal items. Pier 46 Displays & Exhibits Visitors can stop by Pier 46 to check out exhibits from the U.S. Navy, the Applied Physics Laboratory, Navy League, Puget Sound Navy Museum, and the U.S. Marine Corps who will bring an artillery static display, military working dog demonstration, pugil stick simulator, and Humvee display. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There will also be food booths and opportunities to speak with sailors from the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy. Fleet Week Night at the Mariners Cheer on the Mariners with sailors from the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy on August 3 against the Texas Rangers. Purchase your tickets here. Navy Band Northwest Performance The U.S. Navys band will be performing on August 1 from 2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. Theyll be on the main stage at the Seafair Weekend Festival. General admission is FREE on Friday courtesy of Windermere. Seattle police say robbery was actually a fight that ended in gunfire, man grazed in head by bullet A man was shot during a physical altercation Tuesday morning near Broadway and East Fir Street in Seattle, according to police. Seattle officers were initially dispatched around 10:40 a.m. for a reported robbery, but investigators later determined the incident was not a robbery. Instead, police said a fight between individuals escalated into gunfire. The victim, a 25-year-old man, was grazed by a bullet in the forehead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seattle Fire Department medics treated the victim at the scene before transporting him to Harborview Medical Center. The man is stable. Officers temporarily secured a building in the area to ensure there were no immediate threats inside. Police later determined the suspect had likely left the area before law enforcement arrived. (My girlfriend) said around 10 a.m. she heard a bunch of people arguing outside, said a woman who lives nearby who asked not to be identified. Shes like, I think a gunshot just went off. The woman told us the violence is not necessarily uncommon in this area. Over the weekend, she recorded video of fight involving somewhere around ten people. A gunshot was possibly fired. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year it was really huge, she said. I think it was almost every other day that we would be calling the police. This shooting follows another across town just about 24 hours earlier, in which a man was shot in the head at the Northgate Transit Center. To see these acts of violence committed in broad daylight, what is your department doing to mitigate some of the risks that we especially see in the summertime? KIRO 7s Madeline Ottilie asked Seattle Police officials. Its definitely alarming, but I can tell you, we have officers in every corner of the city. Theyre always on patrol, said Det. Eric Munoz with the Seattle Police Department. The detectives dedicate hundreds, if not thousands of hours towards solving these crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Munoz said its also important that people call 911 if they see an incident occurring. The number of shootings and shots fired is down this year compared to last. There have been 348 shootings and shots fired cases so far this year, according to Seattle Police Department data as of July 29. There were 438 as of this time last year. No arrests had been made. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) A second suspected member of a Venezuelan gang has been arrested this month in Michigan. U.S. Customs and Border Patrol says agents arrested a man believed to be a member of Tren de Aragua in Macomb County last week. The 30-year-old was taken into custody during a traffic stop. The vehicle was reportedly stopped because it had a fake license plate. Suspected Venezuelan gangster arrested by ICE in Traverse City Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local police contacted CBP when they realized there were three undocumented men in the car. One of the men was known to have connections with Tren de Aragua, a gang that formed in Venezuelas prison system and is now considered a foreign terrorist organization. Since 2023, the 30-year-old has also reportedly been charged with multiple crimes in the U.S., including weapons violations and robbery. The arrest of this Tren de Aragua gang member, who has a history of firearms and other criminal charges and was wanted on an active warrant out of Denver, Colorado for Failure to Appear, removes another dangerous criminal illegal alien from our country and enhances public safety, Detroit Sector Chief Patrol Agent John R. Morris said in a statement. Another suspected member of Tren de Aragua, a 25-year-old named Kleiber Siso Balza, was arrested on July 4 in Traverse City. He had active warrants in Virginia and Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These cases highlight the critical value of interagency cooperation in removing these criminal threats from our communities, Morris stated. ICE claims Tren de Aragua is known to engage in sex trafficking, debt bondage, drug trafficking and murder to advance their interests. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. Russia's largest airline, Aeroflot, continued canceling flights for a second consecutive day after a pro-Ukrainian hacker group claimed responsibility for a devastating cyberattack on its IT infrastructure, Russian pro-government news agency Interfax reported on July 29. The airline canceled 22 flights departing from Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport and 31 incoming flights operated both independently and jointly with its subsidiary Rossiya Airlines, Interfax said. The hacker group Silent Crow claimed responsibility for the attack in cooperation with the Belarusian opposition group Cyber Partisans BY. In a July 28 Telegram post, the group said it spent a year infiltrating Aeroflot's corporate network before launching the operation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hacker group claimed to have completely destroyed the company's IT infrastructure, affecting 7,000 physical and virtual servers, and accessed 20 terabytes of data. They alleged that the airline had glaring security lapses, including CEO Sergey Alexandrovsky's unchanged password since 2022 and widespread use of outdated Windows XP systems. While Aeroflot, which remains under heavy Western sanctions, reported that 93% of scheduled flights resumed on July 29 216 out of 233 disruptions continued across its Moscow hub. A day earlier, nearly 50 flights in and out of Sheremetyevo were canceled, with routes to Astrakhan, Grozny, Kaliningrad, Minsk, and Yerevan affected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kyiv has not commented on the hack. Russia and Ukraine have both deployed cyberattacks extensively during the war, often targeting each other's government institutions and critical infrastructure. Since 2022, Aeroflot has been banned from U.S. and EU airspace and cut off from critical aviation supplies. As sanctions limit access to spare parts, maintenance, and insurance, the company has faced mounting operational challenges. The attack follows increasing disruptions in Russian civil aviation. According to Russia's Federal Aviation Agency, flight restrictions due to Ukrainian drone threats have affected 43 airports at least 489 times since January. Read also: It hits their psyche hard Ukraines drones throw Russias airports further into chaos Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Secret diaries reveal Ben-Gurions sleepless battle to build a nation (photo credit: Ben-Gurion Heritage Institute) Ben-Gurion frequently used the term harada (anxiety) to describe the dread he felt for the Zionist project and the lives placed in his care. The countrys founding prime minister David Ben-Gurion wrestled for decades with sleepless nights, suffocating anxiety, and the crushing weight of statecraft, according to diaries, letters, and oral testimonies freshly unveiled by the Ben-Gurion Archive. The trove opened jointly by the Ben-Gurion Heritage Institute and Ben-Gurion Universitys Research Institute for Israel and Zionism sheds rare light on the private turmoil of the man who declared statehood in 1948 and steered the fledgling nation through war and austerity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 1937 letter sets the tone: For more than a week I have not slept a single night, Ben-Gurion wrote to friends, lamenting that he had not a moments rest, by day or almost by night. On May 15, 1948, a day after reading the Declaration of Independence in Tel Aviv, he noted in his diary that aides had roused him twice before dawn and that he could not sleep in the hours between. Years later, during a Washington visit on May 25, 1951, he penciled a single-word reminder in his pocket notebook: Rest. Only on September 3, 1954 did he record an exceptional victory: Last night I slept more than six straight hours for the first time in over fifteen years. Secret diaries reveal Ben-Gurions sleepless battle to build a nation (credit: Ben-Gurion Heritage Institute) Ben-Gurion frequently used the term harada (anxiety) to describe the dread he felt for the Zionist project and the lives placed in his care. Accepting the Defense portfolio at the 22nd Zionist Congress in Basel in 1946, he told delegates that sending new kibbutzim to the Negev left him deeply anxious because he had become responsible for their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pressure sometimes exacted a physical toll: cabinet discussions during the 1956 Sinai campaign were held at his bedside while he ran a high fever. Finding strength and comfort in Torah Friends say he sought relief through physical practice and biblical study. Movement therapist Moshe Feldenkrais recalled being summoned to the prime ministers Jerusalem home in November 1957; after a breathing session that calmed him, Ben-Gurion phoned US president Dwight Eisenhower to confirm Israels withdrawal from Sharm el-Sheikh. In 1960, the daily Davar quoted him saying that two hours in a weekly Bible circle eased the gravest worries of leadership. These papers inspire and humble at the same time, said Eitan Dunitz, director-general of the Ben-Gurion Heritage Institute. In a fraught security climate, when many Israelis struggle with fear and sleeplessness, we see the leader and the man awake at night under the crushing burden of responsibility, yet actively searching for ways to cope. Leadership is not only decision-making; it is a personal journey through worry and doubt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Archive director Flora Fazarker called the documents a treasure that exposes Ben-Gurions quiet, vulnerable side, noting that personal reflections are scarce among the archives thousands of items. The Old Man rarely spoke of his inner world, she said. When we find those passages, they reveal the sensitive and human dimensions of a national icon. The release is part of an ongoing project to digitize and publish Ben-Gurions papers. Visitors to the institutes Sde Boker campus can study original documents alongside interactive exhibits on his legacy of statehood, pioneering spirit, and commitment to developing the Negev. Dunitz believes the timing is apt. Ben-Gurion led through nights when sleep was impossible, yet he kept moving forward, he said. In todays complex reality, his struggle reminds us that a peoples strength is tested precisely when it is hardest to close our eyes. > < 23:57 7 years after Bulandshahr violence, 38 convicted A court in Bulandshahr on Wednesday convicted 38 people, five of them for murder, in the 2018 Syana violence case in which two persons, including a police inspector, were killed. On December 3, 2018, a violence broke out over alleged cow slaughter in the Syana area of Bulandshahr... Read more > 23:47 NDA MPs rally behind Modi after Trump's 25 pc tariff After announcement of imposition of a 25 percent tariff by the US on Indian goods, the ruling NDA MPs on Wednesday exuded confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and asserted that India will find a solution to the matter under his leadership. The lawmakers slammed opposition leaders over... Read more > 23:36 India reclaims Buddha's sacred Piprahwa relics India has reclaimed the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha after a 127-year absence. The relics were officially returned to India thanks to the collaborative efforts of the International Buddhist Confederation and the Government of India. Union Minister of Culture, Gajendra Singh... Read more > 23:01 Key Maoist operative from Chhattisgarh held in Haryana The National Investigation Agency has arrested a key Maoist operative from Haryana, who was actively working to promote anti-national activities, an official statement said on Wednesday. Priyanshu Kashyap, a native of the Maoist-infested Bastar region in Chhattisgarh and currently living in... Read more > 22:39 Tamil actor Srinivasan arrested by Delhi police EOW in loan fraud case Tamil film actor and self-styled doctor S Srinivasan also known as 'Powerstar' was arrested by the Economic Offences Wing in the national capital in a high-value loan fraud case, according to officials.According to officials, Srinivasan had promised to arrange a loan of Rs 1,000 crore for a firm,... Read more > 22:16 All 3 Pahalgam terrorists shot in the head: Shah in RS Families of Pahalgam attack victims and many other people wanted the three terrorists to be shot in their heads and they met the same fate in Operation Mahadev, Home Minister Amit Shah said in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. Replying to the debate on Operation Sindoor in the House, Shah said... Read more > 22:02 AI may impact 1.8 cr jobs in key sectors by 2030: Report File image Manufacturing, retail and education sectors are staring at a seismic shift due to agentic artificial intelligence, and over 1.8 crore jobs are set to be impacted in these sectors by 2030 due to new-age technologies, a report said on Wednesday. Manufacturing jobs will bear the highest impact... Read more > 21:40 Four missing after fishing boat capsizes off Karnataka's Bhatkal coast File image Four fishermen are missing after a fishing boat capsized in the Arabian Sea off the Bhatkal coast in Karnataka's Uttara Kannada district on Wednesday, coastal security police said. The vessel, carrying six crew members, overturned under rough sea conditions while at sea. Coastal... Read more > 21:11 Lok Sabha approves extension of President's Rule in Manipur Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed a resolution approving extension of President's Rule in Manipur by another six months beyond August 13, with the government asserting that peace is prevailing in the northeastern state. Replying to a brief discussion on the statutory resolution to extend... Read more > 21:00 Govt studying implications of Trump's tariff hike The government on Wednesday said it is studying the implications of US President Donald Trump's announcement to impose 25 percent tariffs on Indian goods, along with a penalty from August 1. Trump announced the imposition of a 25 percent tariff on all goods coming from India, plus an... Read more > 20:30 Maha to cancel fake birth certificates of Bangladeshis: Minister The Maharashtra government will cancel the fake birth certificates issued to Bangladeshi nationals living illegally in the state by August 15, revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule said on Wednesday. As many as 42,000 such cases have been found but the actual number is greater, and it... Read more > 20:15 Colonel assault case: Action recommended against 4 cops File image A departmental inquiry into the alleged assault on an Army colonel by Punjab police personnel over a car parking issue has recommended action, including deduction in service and no promotion for three years, against four inspectors and two others, sources said on Wednesday. The department... Read more > 19:56 Rain lashes Delhi; more showers likely as city records cleanest July in a decade Rain lashed the national capital on Wednesday, with additional showers anticipated later in the night. Official data revealed that this July has been the cleanest in over a decade. The weather department did not issue any warnings for Wednesday. July 2025 was the cleanest in over a... Read more > 19:53 Over 1400 URLs spreading anti-India content blocked during Op Sindoor: Vaishnaw The government blocked more than 1400 URLs on digital media, primarily of social media accounts from Pakistan, during Operation Sindoor as they carried misleading and anti-India content, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told Lok Sabha on Wednesday. He said it was... Read more > 19:02 Rupee slumps 52 paise to close at 87.43 against US dollar The rupee depreciated 52 paise to close at 87.43 (provisional) against the US dollar on Wednesday, on uncertainty over India-US trade deal after US President Donald Trump hinted at tariff rates of around 20-25 per cent ahead of the deadline of August 1. Forex traders said month-end... Read more > 18:57 2 soldiers killed as boulder falls on vehicle in Ladakh Two army personnel, including a Lt Colonel, died and three officers were injured when a boulder fell on an army vehicle, part of a convoy, in a remote area in eastern Ladakh on Wednesday, officials said. They said the accident occurred at Charbagh near Durbuk in Galwan, some 200 km from Leh,... Read more > 18:48 Hyundai says no impact on production due to rare earth magnet shortage Hyundai Motor India on Wednesday said the company is not facing any production issues due to the shortage of rare earth magnets. Replying to a query in the company's earnings conference call, Hyundai Motor India head of investor relations KS Hariharan noted that the company is maintaining an... Read more > 18:16 Prakash Raj appears before ED in Hyderabad in online betting case Actor Prakash Raj on Wednesday appeared before the ED officials here for questioning in a money laundering case linked to illegal online betting and gambling by certain platforms. The actor, popular in Telugu, Kannada and other South Indian films, appeared before officials of the probe... Read more > 17:57 Trump announces 25% tariff on India from Aug 1 US President Donald Trump on Wednesday morning Washington, DC, time announced 25% tariffs on India starting August 1. He posted, Remember, while India is our friend, we have, over the years, done relatively little business with them because their Tariffs are far too high, among the highest... Read more > 17:49 Nasa-Isro's Nisar satellite launched from Sriharikota Marking ISRO's maiden collaboration with NASA, a GSLV rocket on Wednesday blasted off from this spaceport to place the NISAR earth observation satellite, jointly developed by the two space agencies, in an intended orbit. The 51.7 metre tall three stage GSLV F-16 rocket soared into the skies... Read more > 17:29 Resolution in LS to extend President's Rule in Manipur The government on Wednesday moved a resolution in Lok Sabha seeking approval for extension of President's Rule in Manipur by another six months beyond August 13. Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai moved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Manipur for discussion in... Read more > 17:15 India-US trade deal: Last ditch efforts on to make it work File pic With the deadline of August 1 approaching fast, the last-ditch efforts are on to iron out differences for an interim trade deal between India and the US, sources said. August 1 marks the end of the suspension period of tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump on dozens of countries,... Read more > 17:11 One for the album NCP MP Supriya Sule shares this picture on X, writing, Always such a pleasure meeting Hon. Sonia Gandhi ji and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra ji! Read more > 17:09 COAS Gen Dwivedi visits Manipur to review security General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), undertook a day-long visit to Manipur to review the prevailing security situation and operational readiness of Assam Rifles and Army formations deployed in the state on Wednesday. The visit underlined the Indian Army's steadfast commitment... Read more > 17:01 They don't have courage to say Trump lying: Cong on Centre Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday said that the Centre does not have the courage to say that US President Donald Trump was lying when he said brokered the ceasefire between India and Pakistan following the Operation Sindoor, which was India's response to the Pahalgam terror... Read more > 16:47 Kerala court clears five including nuns in 'trafficking' case A court in Kerala has discharged five people -- two nuns and three from Jharkhand -- in a case alleging the trafficking of three underage girls for domestic work, ruling that there was no evidence of threats, coercion or exploitation. In the July 26 order, the Court of I Additional Sessions... Read more > 16:42 Stock markets advance for 2nd day on buying in L&T Benchmark stock indices Sensex and Nifty ended higher on Wednesday, driven by heavy buying in infrastructure major Larsen & Toubro. Rising for the second day, the 30-share BSE Sensex climbed 143.91 points or 0.18 per cent to settle at 81,481.86. During the day, the barometer moved in a... Read more > 16:24 How ex-chemistry prof electrocuted hubby to death Representational image The Madhya Pradesh High Court has upheld the life imprisonment of a former chemistry professor for the murder of her doctor husband by electrocution in Chhatarpur district of the state in 2021. A division bench of Justices Vivek Agarwal and Devnarayan Mishra on Tuesday upheld the life... Read more > 16:22 Heavy rains in MP: Army called in Shivpuri, 2,900 people rescued Representational image Several people, including school children, were stranded in parts of Madhya Pradesh's Shivpuri district due to a flood-like situation after heavy rains, prompting the authorities to call the Army for rescue and relief work, officials said on Wednesday. A flood-like situation has also arisen... Read more > 16:13 Families of Bengali migrants deported to Bangladesh face uncertainty Sixty-something Bhodu Sheikh sat on the porch of his ramshackle hut in Dorjee Para, a settlement tucked away in one corner of Paikar village in the Muslim-majority Murarai assembly constituency of West Bengal's Birbhum district, with a blank look in his eyes. More than the rickety body that... Read more > 15:42 National Awards for Rani Mukerji, Vikrant Massey? There is a strong buzz that the National Film Awards will be announced in the next 48 hours and according to rumours, Vikrant Massey is the 'sure-shot winner' for best actor, while the likely winner for best actress is Rani Mukerji. Vikrant Massey's performance in 12th Fail is... Read more > 15:22 Habitual delinquent: BJP MP on Rahul's 'distorted facts' Indira Gandhi with Richard Nixon BJP MP Nishikant Dubey on Wednesday accused Rahul Gandhi of using distorted and inaccurate facts in the Lok Sabha during his reference to Indira Gandhi's conduct of the 1971 war against Pakistan, and has urged Speaker Om Birla to reprimand the Leader of Opposition in the House for his habitual... Read more > 15:14 Meghalaya's lone Congress MLA Ronnie V Lyngdoh joins ruling NPP Meghalaya now doesn't have a single Congress MLA. File pic Meghalaya's lone Congress MLA Ronnie V Lyngdoh joined the ruling National People's Party (NPP) on Wednesday. Lyngdoh, who served as the opposition chief whip, represents the Mylliem constituency. He submitted a letter of merger to Assembly Speaker Thomas A Sangma in the presence of senior... Read more > 15:10 Himachal floods: 343 roads blocked, 170 deaths Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut takes selfies Relentless monsoon rains continue to batter Himachal Pradesh, severely impacting critical public infrastructure. As of 10:00 am on July 30, a total of 343 roads remain blocked, 551 power distribution transformers (DTRs) are disrupted, and 186 water supply schemes are out of service across... Read more > 15:06 'Maha minister played cards in House for 22 minutes' As per a probe report, Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate was playing an online card game on his mobile phone in the Maharashtra legislature for 18 to 22 minutes, NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar claimed on Wednesday. Kokate, who belongs to the Nationalist Congress Party led by deputy Chief Minister... Read more > 14:35 Family of Kargil War veteran asked to prove nationality The brave soldiers who fought the Kargil War. File pic The family members of a Kargil war veteran have alleged that a group of around 80 persons affiliated to a Hindutva outfit barged into their house in Pune and demanded a proof of their Indian citizenship, accusing them of being Bangladeshis. The incident took place in Chandannagar area of the... Read more > 14:26 Air India has a Kiwi CEO, Air NZ has Indian CEO Campbell Wilson Air New Zealand has named its new CEO, after promoting chief digital officer Nikhil Ravishankar to helm the carrier. Ravishankar will take over as CEO on 20 October, after outgoing chief Greg Foran steps down. Ravishankar has been with the Star Alliance operator for close to five years,... Read more > 14:11 The asteroid that will spare Earth might hit the moon instead File pic The asteroid known as 2024 YR4 is out of sight yet still very much on scientists' minds. The building-sized object, which initially appeared to be on a potential collision course with Earth, is currently zooming beyond the reach of telescopes on its orbit around the sun. But as scientists wait... Read more > 14:09 EAM slams 'China gurus', 'they sleep in history class' On the issue of China raised by the Opposition in the Parliament, EAM Dr S Jaishankar says, There are 'China Gurus'. One of them is the member sitting in front of me (Jairam Ramesh), whose affection for China is so great, 'unhone ek sandhi bana li thi India aur China ki, Chindia'. I may lack... Read more > 14:03 Justin engages in some psithurism Justin Bieber shares this pic among others on X, writing: Let's have a good day, let's go outside Get in nature Thanking Jesus for his patience with me this morning I can be extremely selfish and impatient yet Jesus always has his arms open toward me. Read more > 14:01 No threat to India following 8.7 magnitude quake in Russia Russian Academy of Sciences/Handout via Reuters There is no tsunami threat to the Indian coast following the 8.7 magnitude earthquake off the East Coast of Kamchatka in Russia, the Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC) here said on Wednesday. Based on pre-run model scenarios, there is no threat to India, the centre said in a... Read more > 13:33 No leader anywhere told India to stop: EAM on Sindoor On communication with the US during Operation Sindoor, EAM Dr S Jaishankar says: On May 9, US Vice President Vance called up the Prime Minister to warn him that a Pakistani attack would come in the next few hours. PM made it very clear that if anything happened, it would get an appropriate... Read more > 13:19 No calls between PM, Trump from 22/4 to 16/6: EAM Discussion on Operation Sindoor in Rajya Sabha, EAM Dr S Jaishankar says, The Indus Water Treaty in many ways is a very unique agreement. I cannot think of any agreement in the world where a country has allowed its major rivers to flow to the next country without having rights on that river. So... Read more > 12:57 All questions answered, befitting reply: BJP cheers PM Bharatiya Janata Party leaders on Wednesday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Parliament address for answering all questions, and giving a befitting reply to anyone trying to mislead the people on Operation Sindoor.PM Modi on Tuesday had affirmed that no world leader has asked India to stop... Read more > 12:43 Watch Parineeta re-release in theatres soon! Vidya Balan and Saif Ali Khan-starrer 2005 hit Parineeta, which was adapted from Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's iconic 1914 Bengali novel by late Pradeep Sarkar, is all set to re-release on its 20th anniversary on August 29. PVR INOX and Vinod Chopra Films announced on Wednesday that the... Read more > 12:40 Trump: Epstein stole young female workers from my resort US President Donald Trump has said that he ended his relationship with disgraced financier and convicted sex abuser Jeffrey Epstein because he stole young female workers from Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort, Al Jazeera reported. Speaking to reporters on his way home from a trip to Scotland on... Read more > 12:29 Rail fracture hits local train services in Thane File pic Local train services were affected on a section in Maharashtra's Thane district on Wednesday morning for about an hour due to a rail fracture, officials said. The down trains were detained for a few minutes and then restoration work was undertaken, the Central Railway said in a... Read more > 12:27 Brinda Karat meets nuns jailed in Chhattisgarh Senior CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat on Wednesday claimed the arrest of two Catholic nuns for alleged human trafficking and forced religious conversion in Chhattisgarh was unconstitutional and illegal, and demanded their immediate release. Karat, who met the two nuns hailing from Kerala at the... Read more > 11:59 'Worst-case scenario of famine' is unfolding in Gaza A UN-backed food security agency has warned that the worst case scenario of famine' is unfolding in Gaza, its starkest alert yet as starvation spreads and Israel faces growing international pressure to allow more food into the territory. Read more here. Read more > 11:57 Verdict in 2008 Malegaon blast case likely tomorrow Almost 17 years after a blast killed six persons and left more than 100 injured in Maharashtra's communally sensitive Malegaon town, a special NIA court is likely to deliver its verdict in the case on Thursday. Seven accused, including BJP leader and former MP Pragya Thakur and Lt Col Prasad... Read more > 11:46 11 infiltrators, living in Ahmedabad for 2 yrs, held while returning to Bangladesh The BJP says the Bengal govt has not acted against Bangladeshis Seven Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended along with four children in West Bengal's Nadia district, police said on Wednesday. They were apprehended from Baranberia Niralapara in the Dhantala police station area of the district on Tuesday, an officer said. All of them belong to Baliadanga... Read more > 11:42 Pahalgam attack: UNSC Monitoring Report mentions TRF The Resistance Front, a proxy for the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror group, has found mention for its role in the Pahalgam attack in a UN Security Council (UNSC) report that is expected to bolster India's position against Pakistan-backed cross-border terrorism. The report by the UNSC's Monitoring... Read more > 11:37 Want to retire? You need to save Rs 3.5 cr ASAP! Indians will need to save an estimated Rs3.5 crore (approximately USD 401,000) to ensure a comfortable and secure retirement, according to a report by HSBC. The report titled Affluent Investors Snapshot 2025 underscores a growing awareness among Indian investors about the rising cost of... Read more > 11:15 Army foils infiltration bid in J-K's Poonch, two terrorists killed Two suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were killed when army troops scuttled an infiltration attempt along the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Wednesday. The latest encounter comes two days after security forces eliminated three hardcore... Read more > 11:12 'Trump constantly giving statements, what is our PM doing?' Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP Imran Masood took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, saying that the latter presented a weak image of himself during his speech in Parliament by not publicly denouncing US President Donald Trump's claims of brokering a ceasefire deal between... Read more > 10:55 OCD: Cong slams PM, HM for Nehru criticism The Congress on Wednesday slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for their criticism of India's first PM Jawaharlal Nehru in their remarks in the Lok Sabha, saying they have no answers to their present-day failures and they choose to divert, distract, distort, and... Read more > 10:54 Larsen & Toubro shares jump 4.53 pc post Q1 earnings Shares of infrastructure major Larsen & Toubro (L&T) jumped 4.53 per cent on Wednesday after the firm reported a 29.8 per cent rise in consolidated net profit in the June quarter of this fiscal year.The stock climbed 4.53 per cent to Rs 3,653.70 on the BSE. At the NSE, it surged 4.49 per... Read more > 10:47 MNS leader slaps staffer of gaming zone frequented by children A slap-happy day it seems... A video footage has surfaced online showing a Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) functionary slapping an employee of a gaming centre in Maharashtra's Thane district, inviting criticism for his action.The incident, which took place on Tuesday, apparently stemmed... Read more > 10:31 Maulana who made derogatory comments on Dimple slapped Dimple Yadav Youths who claimed to be from the Samajwadi Party slapped Maulana Sajid Rashidi after a news channel's debate show in Noida for allegedly making a derogatory comment against party MP Dimple Yadav. One of the youths posted a purported video of the incident on social media and took... Read more > 10:29 Girl on way to school abducted in Ranchi Representational image A girl was allegedly kidnapped while she was on her way to school in an e-rickshaw on Wednesday morning in Jharkhand's capital, Ranchi, police said. The incident happened in Chutia area. The police have begun an investigation of the incident. A minor schoolgirl was allegedly kidnapped from... Read more > 10:20 'Why didn't PM say Trump lying about ceasefire credit?' Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera on Wednesday slammed Centre after US President Donald Trump's repeated claims that he mediated between India and Pakistan to broker a ceasefire, despite India's denial of any US involvement. This comes hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated in... Read more > 10:14 Shah to move resolution in LS for extension of President's rule in Manipur Union Home Minister Amit Shah will move a resolution to extend President's rule in the ethnic violence-hit state of Manipur for six months. The President's rule was imposed in Manipur on February 13, days after N Biren Singh resigned from the Chief Minister's position. Under the motion,... Read more > 10:08 Rahul's 'PM's hands stained with blood' remark expunged Parts of Rahul Gandhi's speech during the Operation Sindoor discussion in the Lok Sabha were expunged from the record after he criticised the government for trying to protect Prime Minister Narendra Modi's image.Gandhi held PM Modi responsible for the Pahalgam attack, saying he had blood of... Read more > 10:04 ISRO's Earth-observing satellite NISAR to lift off today The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar), a sophisticated earth observation satellite developed in collaboration with American space agency NASA, from Sriharikota on Wednesday. The launch will be held from the Satish Dhawan Space... Read more > 09:46 Russia-Japan earthquake strongest in over a decade People watch the coastal area from Hiyoriyama Park in Japan. Pic: Kyodo/via Reuters Update on the quake-led tsunami: Russia's Far East region was hit by one of the world's strongest earthquakes early today. The 8.8-magnitude temblor resulted in a tsunami in the northern Pacific region which had a ripple effect in Alaska, Hawaii and other coasts south towards New... Read more > 09:33 Bus carrying ITBP personnel falls into river in J-K's Ganderbal Representational image A bus carrying security personnel fell into a river in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, officials said here. The bus carrying ITBP personnel fell into Sindh river at Kullan in the Ganderbal district amidst heavy rain, the officials said. They said search and rescue... Read more > 09:23 Goa-Gatwick Air India flight to resume by September-end The Air India flight between Goa and Gatwick in London, stopped following the horrific June 12 Ahmedabad plane crash, will resume by the end of September, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has said in the state assembly.Improved connectivity to Goa from various locations is a game changer for the... Read more > 09:21 India trade deal not finalised but I'm in charge: Trump US President Donald Trump has said the trade deal with India is not finalised, as he stressed that India imposes more tariffs than almost any other country. Trump spoke to reporters on Tuesday on Air Force One on his way back to Washington from Scotland and was asked about the trade deal with... Read more > 09:14 Amarnath Yatra suspended due to heavy rains in J-K Authorities on Wednesday suspended the Amarnath Yatra on both Pahalgam and Baltal routes due to heavy rains in Kashmir, a senior official said. Shri Amarnathji Yatra has been suspended for 30.07.2025 from both Pahalgam and Baltal base camps, Department of Information and Public Relations,... Read more > 09:12 Lenskart Files For IPO To Raise Rs 2,150 Cr Lenskart Solutions Ltd on Tuesday filed draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) to raise Rs 2,150 crore through an IPO as the eyewear retailer looks to tap the growing demand for affordable prescription glasses and contact lenses.The offering... Read more > 09:10 Byju's Alleges 'Corporate Raid' Byju Raveendran, founder of the embattled Indian education technology company, on Tuesday claimed his startup Byju's had no loans due till 2026 and the firm was paying interests when debt buyers triggered a 'hostile takeover' through bankruptcy proceedings, and purchased distressed loans at deep... Read more > 09:05 Gunfight near LoC after infiltration bid by terrorists File pic A gunfight broke out when Army troops intercepted a group of terrorists trying to infiltrate into the Indian side from across the border in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Wednesday. The alert troops saw the movement of infiltrating terrorists in general area of... Read more > 08:57 JPC meeting on 'One Nation, One Election' today The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the 'One Nation, One Election' Bill is scheduled to meet on July 30, with noted economist N K Singh set to depose before the panel.Singh is a former Rajya Sabha Member, Chairman of the Fifteenth Finance Commission of India, former Member of the Planning... Read more > 08:17 Tsunami hits Russia, Japan after 8.7 quake An 8.7-magnitude undersea earthquake struck early Wednesday near Russia's Kuril Islands, triggering tsunami waves in parts of Japan and Russia and prompting alerts across the Pacific region.Japan's Meteorological Agency reported a 30 cm wave reaching Nemuro on Hokkaido's eastern coast.In Russia,... Read more > 01:00 Woman teacher held for obscene video call to male student The police on Tuesday arrested a 35-year-old woman teacher for allegedly making an obscene video call to a minor male student on a social media platform in Navi Mumbai, an official said on Tuesday. The Koparkhairne police took action against the teacher after the boy informed his parents... Read more > 00:51 Meow meow drug worth Rs 4 cr seized near Mumbai; 2 held File image The police seized 2.184 kg of mephedrone drug valued at Rs 3.97 crore and arrested two individuals, one of them a food delivery agent, in separate operations in Thane city as part of their offensive against narcotics trafficking, an official said on Tuesday. Talking to reporters in Thane,... Read more > UPDATE (9:20 p.m.): The accident has been cleared, and both lanes of I-40 near Exit 47 are clear. FRANKLIN COUNTY, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) An accident involving a semi-truck now completely blocks Interstate 40 traveling east. According to traffic cameras from the Arkansas Department of Transportation, a semi-truck has blocked traffic near Exit 47 in Coal Hill. Traffic is being redirected during this time while police work to clear the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details on the accident are unknown at this time. This is a developing story. Stay with KNWA/FOX24 for the latest. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. Superintendent Serita Beamon announced during her State of Our Schools address that Seminole County Schools have once again received an A rating. The district continues to hold its leading position in Central Florida, ranking first among regional districts and tenth among all 67 districts statewide. The districts summary of school grades shows that no public school in Seminole County received a D or F grade, a record held since 2019. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) After the Shiloh community made a trip to Washington, D.C. last month, asking for more federal help, Republican Senator Kate Britt sent some of her field representatives weeks later to visit the historically black community for a Journey to Justice tour. I believe something is going to happen. I have never been about when it comes to doing civic work, you cant be about political parties, you have to believe they have your best interest, said Shiloh resident Pastor Timothy Williams Britts representative, Melanie Hill, went on the same tour as former US Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in April of 2024 to see homes residents say have been damaged due to flooding, the proximity of the gas pipeline to homes, and the highway pipes residents blame for pumping stormwater into the community during heavy periods of rain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She couldnt believe it, she was like wow. Its different when you can actually see it for yourself, and you get that experience to see man, this is jacked up with the surveying, and some of the questions we get are How have yall survived this for seven years? Williams said. Williams says it could now take longer before a fix is available. He says he was just informed that the state has requested a 6-month extension from the federal highway administration to complete the mitigation work required by the binding agreement reached last October, pushing the work into its 8th year. We dont understand why they wont go ahead and do the wor.k 160 days is gone, youre now looking at 400 days so why are you dragging this out we need help now not next year, Williams said. But Williams says he is relying on his faith and hope that with Senator Katie Britt who is from Enterprise and her team that has secured funding for various things in the Wiregrass like Fort Rucker, he is crossing his fingers that britts office can take the lead and get the right players involved possibly getting the current usdot secreatary sean duffy to visit and push the state to take control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We need somebody who is gonna move expeditiously and not just come out here and not make a scene but advocate for this community like Melanie said she was going to do, Williams said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. AUSTIN (Nexstar) As senators prepared to hear more testimony on proposed congressional redistricting, they discussed a letter sent by the Department of Justice to Texas accusing it of having racially discriminatory district lines. Sen. Phil King, R-Weatherford, and the chair of the Senates redistricting committee, said he sent a formal invitation to Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, the author of the DOJ letter, asking her to testify before the Senate committee. The committee has not received a response, and King said Monday that he would entertain holding a vote to issue a subpoena to Dhillon if a response is not received by Wednesday. Issuing a subpoena would require a two-thirds majority of the nine-member committee to vote in favor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A subpoena is a formal, legally binding request for testimony that can come with civil or criminal penalties if the individual fails to appear. The move comes after Sens. Carol Alvarado, D-Houston, Juan Chuy Hinjosa, D-McAllen, and Borris Miles, D-Houston, sent King a letter requesting a subpoena, explaining why they believe the committee has the authority to do so. King said he is unsure if the committee does indeed have the authority, since Dhillon is a federal official and is out of state. The House redistricting committee will also hear testimony Monday, in person at 5 p.m. in Arlington. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. The Senate confirmed its first nominee of the week ahead of what is expected to be a jam-packed schedule to ram through as many of President Donald Trumps picks as possible. David A. Wright, Trumps pick to lead the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for a five-year term, was confirmed in the upper chamber on a 50 to 39 vote on Monday. Its not Wrights first time as chair of the commission, having first served in the role beginning in 2020. Key Trump Nominees Stalled By Senate Dems Puts Pressure On Gop Leaders President Donald Trump speaks as he welcomes the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles NFL football team to the South Lawn of the White House, Monday, April 28, 2025, in Washington. Trump had previously tapped Wright during his first term, and again selected him to lead the NRC earlier this year. His new term is set to end in 2030. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The NRC is an independent regulatory agency tasked with regulating commercial nuclear power plants, reactor licensing and renewal and other elements related to protecting public health and safety when it comes to nuclear energy. Wright's confirmation comes on the heels of Trump's announcement that the U.S. and European Union were entering a trade deal that would see the bloc purchase $750 billion of U.S. energy over the next three years. While the commission is independent from other arms of the government, Senate Democrats have balked at recent attempts to make the regulatory body, in their view, more partisan. Read On The Fox News App 'All The Options': Gop Eyes Cutting August Recess To Move Dozens Of Trump Nominees Stalled By Dems Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., leaves the Senate Democrats' lunch in the Capitol on Tuesday, June 13, 2023. Earlier this year, Trump signed an executive order that demanded the agency consider making its safety standards less stringent, shortening the timelines for environmental reviews and a quadrupling of the nations nuclear power capacity by 2050: all part of the president's quest to ensure America's energy dominance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Chair Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.V., argued that over the last seven years that Wright has been a part of the commission, first as a commissioner beginning in 2018 and then as chair, he would fulfill the president's wishes. "Achieving this will require experienced and highly qualified Commissioners who are empowered to lead the Agency through a period of high expectations," she said in a statement. "Well, David Wright meets that mark." Then Trump fired a Democratic member of the commission last month, and a staffer from the presidents Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) was reportedly detailed from the Department of Energy to the regulatory agency. That prompted Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, the top Democrat on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, to warn of a "hostile takeover" of the commission by the Energy Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move hurt what began as bipartisan support for Wrights nomination Whitehouse initially backed him but changed his position. Gop Lawmakers Clash Over Strategy To Avert Government Shutdown Crisis The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission logo sits next to the U.S. flag during a meeting at the NRC headquarters in Rockville, Maryland, on Monday, March 21, 2011. "I hoped to see Chairman Wright rise to the occasion, but circumstances right now at the NRC continue to deteriorate," he said in a statement. "I cannot presently support his renomination." Still, Wrights confirmation is a win for both Senate Republicans and the White House after Trump called on the Senate GOP to ram his nominees through blockades set up by Senate Democrats. There are now over 140 pending "civilian" nominations for positions across the gauntlet of federal agencies, ambassadorships and judgeships. The Senate has moved at a blistering clip over the last six months to confirm nomineestheyve clocked nearly 100 so far the president has called on Senate Republicans to consider canceling the forthcoming August break to get more done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., warned that if his colleagues across the aisle continued to slow walk the process in the upper chamber for the slew of remaining "uncontroversial" nominees, or be prepared to stick around Washington. "Or they can rein in their reflexive anti-Trump sentiment and allow some of his rank-and-file nominees to proceed by unanimous consent or voice vote just as Republicans did when the roles were reversed," he said. "And Id remind my colleagues about the dangerous and ugly precedent that theyre setting here. But the choice is theirs. But whether its the slow way or the fast way, were getting President Trumps nominees confirmed." Original article source: Senate confirms Trump pick to lead independent Nuclear Regulatory Commission Democrats on the Senate Health Committee launched an investigation on Tuesday into Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s firing of all members of a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) vaccine advisory panel. Led by ranking member Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), who caucuses with Democrats, the lawmakers asked for detailed information about why Kennedy dismissed members of the CDCs Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), who else was involved in the process, and how the new members were identified and vetted. By removing all 17 of ACIPs members and replacing them with eight individuals handpicked to advance your anti-vaccine agenda, you have put decades of non-partisan, science-backed work and, as a result, Americans livesat risk, the lawmakers wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In June, Kennedy fired all members of the panel in an unprecedented escalation of his quest to reshape federal health agencies and vaccine policy. He then handpicked eight replacements, many of whom are vaccine critics. He accused the panelists of being beholden to corporate interests and said the panel was rife with conflicts, but did not provide any evidence. The panelists are not political appointees. ACIP members meet and discuss data to determine which vaccines are recommended and for whom. If the CDC director signs off on the panels recommendations, ACIP-recommended vaccines must be covered by health insurance. Under many state laws, ACIP-recommended vaccines are mandated for schoolchildren. The lawmakers on Tuesday called on Kennedy to provide information on the firings by Aug. 12, including details of the alleged conflict of interest for each fired member and how their conflicts differ from ones they previously disclosed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kennedy has promised transparency and department officials pledged to release ethics forms on the new panelists prior to their meeting last month, but that never happened. A searchable database of ACIP members lists conflicts of interest for just two of Kennedys picks, though its much more detailed for the dismissed members. The senators also asked if Kennedy plans to appoint any additional members to the panel. Only seven members participated in last months meeting. Kennedy claimed in a Fox News interview in June that he would allow Health Committee chairman Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) to place one of his own candidates on the panel. In addition to Sanders, the letter was signed by Democratic Sens. Tim Kaine (Va.), Maggie Hassan (N.H.), John Hickenlooper (Colo.), Ed Markey (Mass.), Andy Kim (N.J.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (Del.) and Angela Alsobrooks (Md.). The lawmakers said they launched a partisan investigation because a Sanders request for a bipartisan inquiry in June went unheeded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cassidy on Tuesday said he doesnt see the point in an investigation, because Democrats will be able to question Kennedy directly the next time he testifies. The Secretary will be back before us. Hes been before us once. Hes going to be back before us again, Cassidy told reporters. Im not sure what an investigation is going to accomplish, more than the guy who apparently made the decision, sitting there before us, taking questions from everybody on the panel, he continued. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. BOSTON (SHNS) Lawmakers are inching closer to sending Gov. Maura Healey an annual road funding bill as an expected August slowdown approaches. The Senate on Monday gave initial approval to a $1.185 billion bond bill, and plans to take the vote necessary to pass it at a formal session Thursday, according to a spokesperson for Senate President Karen Spilka. Spilkas office did not make clear if the chamber will make further changes to the bill before returning it to the House. Senators on Monday did not alter the bill (H 4307) from the version the House advanced last week. If they opt not to make amendments Thursday, it would open up an easy path to final passage for the bill in the first year that the Transportation Committee is led on the House side by Rep. James Arciero of Westford. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill would recharge the Chapter 90 program with $300 million for a year, 50% more than the typical annual allotment over the past decade-plus. The $100 million addition would be distributed to cities and towns based only on road mileage, a boost for rural communities that do not receive as much from the traditional program formula. It also includes $500 million for the road and bridge lifecycle asset management program, $200 million for repair of culverts and small bridges, and $185 million aimed at tackling persistent traffic hotspots. Healeys original bill sought approval for five years of Chapter 90 funding at once, but the Transportation Committee narrowed the scope to a single year. Beacon Hill traditionally approves a tranche of Chapter 90 funding each year, at times supplementing the annual appropriation with additional dollars partway through the cycle. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. In the immediate hours after at least four people were fatally shot, including an off-duty police officer, after a man carrying a long gun opened fire in Manhattan, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle began taking familiar sides in the gun control debate. On Fox News, Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) suggested that gun control laws would not help make the public safer and that the city should instead consider bringing back stop-and-frisk. On Capitol Hill, probably beginning in the morning, therell be the inevitable call by some of my colleagues for more gun control laws. Weve got hundreds of gun control laws, maybe thousands, Kennedy said on Sean Hannitys show. We dont need more gun control, we need more idiot control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), who represents a Brooklyn district, called the shooting tragic and horrifying and mass shootings a plague. The gun violence epidemic continues to afflict our country and now has shattered lives in our great City. The time has come for decisive action, he said in a statement. The motives of the gunman, who fatally shot himself, were not immediately clear. A still of surveillance footage appears to show him carrying an assault-style rifle. I dont want to hear anyone feeling sorry for this guy who did this, Kennedy said. I believe theres objective evil in this world, and we saw it today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Louisiana senator also floated bringing back stop-and-frisk, a policy with a controversial history of targeting communities of color in New York City. The other thing that, frankly, New Yorks going to have to face, is the issue of whether we should bring back more aggressive stop and frisk, which is a perfectly legal law enforcement tactic, he said. The tactic was formally ended under the tenure of Mayor Bill de Blasio. In 2024, the city instituted a rule requiring police to disclose the race of people they stop for questioning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, co-author of a bill introducing new sanctions against Russia, has responded to threats from Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russias Security Council, who spoke of a "war" between Moscow and Washington. Source: European Pravda Details: Graham addressed this threat in a post on X (Twitter) On Monday 28 July, Medvedev claimed that Trump was "playing the ultimatum game with Russia". He added that "each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war", not with Ukraine, but with "his own country". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response, Graham addressed "those in Russia who believe that President Trump is not serious about ending the bloodbath between Russia and Ukraine". "You and your customers will soon be sadly mistaken. You will also soon see that Joe Biden is no longer president. Get to the peace table," he wrote. The mention of former US President Biden came as Medvedev had earlier urged Americans not to "go down the Sleepy Joe road" a nickname political opponents often use to refer to Biden. Under Grahams post, Medvedev replied that neither the senator nor Trump could dictate when Russia would negotiate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Negotiations will end when all the objectives of our military operation have been achieved. Work on America first, gramps!" he wrote. To those in Russia who believe that President Trump is not serious about ending the bloodbath between Russia and Ukraine: You and your customers will soon be sadly mistaken. You will also soon see that Joe Biden is no longer president. Get to the peace table. https://t.co/IRWk9I0Ljf Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) July 28, 2025 Background: Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Tuesday marks six months since the deadliest plane crash in more than two decades in the U.S. Thats when an American Airlines plane and a military helicopter collided over the Potomac River just outside of Washington, D.C. Leaders in Washington are introducing air travel safety reforms in honor of the victims. Surviving family members joined lawmakers on Capitol Hill to endorse an aviation safety bill which will in part mandate all military aircraft broadcast their position, something that did not happen the night of the collision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Doug Lanes wife and son were among the 67 killed when their American Airline flight collided with the military chopper. Safer skies is a victory for every family who has suffered an unimaginable lost, said Lane. Six months later he and other families are back in the nations capital demanding reforms. This is not about politics for us, its about saving lives, said Lane. Texas Senator Ted Cruz and Kansas Senator Jerry Moran unveiled a bill mandating all aircraft military and civilian use flight tracking technology. We will not wait for another accident to happen, said Cruz. A National Transportation Safety Board preliminary report revealed the night of the collision the Blackhawk helicopter did not have its tracker on. NTSB chairwoman Jennifer Homendy says the new mandate will prevent future close calls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This will save lives, said Homendy. The FAA has since banned helicopters from flying near Reagan airport. The NTSB will kick off a three-day investigative hearing in Washington Wednesday. Lawmakers promise more reforms are on the way. The issue is broader than a problem, and were going to have a lot of work to do, said Moran. The NTSB is promising these hearings will be a fact-finding mission and will be open for the public to watch. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Under Presidents Obama and Biden, commutations of sentence far outnumbered pardons 1,715 to 212 under Obama, 4,165 to 80 under Biden and both administrations followed formal guidelines laid out in a Justice Department manual. Traditionally, presidents only commuted the prison portion of a sentence, leaving untouched any restitution owed to victims. But in this new golden era of the transactional and legally unaccountable president, everything has changed. It began with a wave of politically motivated pardons: more than 1,500 for crimes committed by participants in the January 6 Capitol insurrection, followed by over 20 pardons granted to anti-abortion activists who had blocked access to reproductive health clinics. Under Trump, pardons not commutations are the rule. He has issued more 58 pardons and 12 commutations (that we know of), disregarding the existing procedures and manuals. In many of these cases, beneficiaries have been released from any obligation to compensate their victims. The guiding principle now appears to be: Whats in it for Trump? Take white-collar crime, for example. One of the most blatant cases is that of Trevor Milton, founder and former CEO of Nikola Motor Co., who was sentenced to four years in prison for fraud. Prosecutors had sought $675 million in restitution. Milton and his wife had donated $1.8 million to Trumps campaign and he walked away with a full pardon. Carlos Watson, convicted and sentenced to nearly 10 years for defrauding investors at his company Ozy Media Inc., received a commutation that expressly wiped out over $36 million owed by both him and Ozy Media to their victims. Then theres Paul Walczak, sentenced to 18 months for tax evasion and fraud after stealing over $10 million from his employees to fund luxury purchases, including a yacht. He was granted a full pardon after his mother, Elizabeth Fago, attended a $1 million-per-person dinner with Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Walczaks attorney with close ties to the White House reportedly charged the same amount: $1 million. Trump even broke new ground by granting, for the first time in U.S. history, a pardon to a corporation: HDR Global Trading Ltd. The move spared the company which operates BitMEX, a crypto derivatives and exchange platform from paying a $100 million fine, just hours before it was due. HDR is part of the crypto sector that has funneled major donations to Trumps re-election bid, a sector in which the Trump Organization reportedly holds significant interests. And then theres Ross Ulbricht, sentenced to life in prison for founding and operating Silk Road, an online black market for buying and selling illegal drugs, and held responsible for the deaths of several people. When granting his pardon, Trump thanked Rosss mother and the Libertarian movement, which supported me so strongly. According to Liz Oyer, the former U.S. Pardon Attorney, these white-collar clemency deals have already erased more than $1 billion in restitution or fines owed to victims or the U.S. government. In todays America, presidential clemency and justice for victims are no longer seen as fundamental principles in a civilized society they have been put at the service of the interests of a businessman-president. linkedin.com/in/jorgecostaoliveira Like this: Like Loading... SEOUL, July 29 (UPI) -- Seoul's Unification Ministry on Tuesday publicly called for Pyongyang to respond to its plan to repatriate the remains of a North Korean national that was discovered on the southern side of the inter-Korean border. South Korean authorities found a body believed to be that of a North Korean citizen on June 21 off the coast of Seongmodo Island in the Yellow Sea, the ministry spokesperson's office said in a statement sent to reporters. The government plans to repatriate the remains next Tuesday via the truce village of Panmunjom inside the DMZ, the ministry said, urging the North to respond through an inter-Korean hotline that it has not used since April 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Given the severed inter-Korean communication lines, sending a notice to North Korea is difficult," the ministry said in a message directed to Pyongyang. "Therefore, we are informing you of the contents of this notice through the media." The North Korean man was born in 1988 and was a farm worker in North Hwanghae Province, the ministry said, citing an identification card found on the body. Earlier this month, the South repatriated six North Koreans across the maritime border in the East Sea, months after they drifted into southern waters and were rescued. The North did not respond to any of Seoul's notification efforts about that repatriation plan, which were made via the U.S.-led United Nations Command. However, North Korea sent vessels to the border to retrieve the citizens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seoul's Unification Ministry also recently used a press briefing to request that the North give advance notice before releasing water from a dam across the border. Ministry spokeswoman Chang Yoon-jeong called the public appeal a form of "indirect communication" with Pyongyang. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has pledged to improve inter-Korean relations, which have deteriorated sharply in recent years after a period of diplomatic progress in 2018-19. Shortly after taking office last month, Lee suspended propaganda loudspeaker broadcasts at the DMZ and cracked down on activists floating balloons carrying anti-Pyongyang leaflets across the border. North Korea has rebuffed any efforts at rapprochement, however. On Monday, Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said that Pyongyang had "no interest" in engaging with Seoul. (FOX40.COM) The University of California announced a settlement in Frankel v. Regents of the University of California, a litigation addressing antisemitism on campus after the initial response to protest activity in 2024 by the University of California, Los Angeles. The settlement resolves claims against UC as they, and UCLA, take the necessary actions to promote safety and combat antisemitism on campus. Video Above: Senate holds hearing about antisemitism on college campuses We are pleased with the terms of todays settlement. The injunction and other terms UCLA has agreed to demonstrate real progress in the fight against antisemitism, the parties said in a joint statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The settlement stated that UCLA has a role in implementing policies that ensure the campus safety of Jewish students, faculty and staff. UC said that the university is contributing $2.33 million to eight organizations that combat antisemitism, while also supporting UCLA Jewish communities. UCLA Jewish communities include: Hillel at UCLA The Academic Engagement Network The Anti-Defamation League The Jewish Federation Los Angeless Campus Impact Network The University of California stated that $320,000 will be distributed to the effort announced in March by UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk, UCLAs Initiative to Combat Antisemitism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said the effort was created to mobilize resources and leaders across the University to combat antisemitism Antisemitism, harassment, and other forms of intimidation are antithetical to our values and have no place at the University of California. We have been clear about where we have fallen short, and we are committed to doing better moving forward. Todays settlement reflects a critically important goal that we share with the plaintiffs: to foster a safe, secure and inclusive environment for all members of our community and ensure that there is no room for antisemitism anywhere on campus, said University of California Board of Regents Chair Janet Reilly. As we build upon our systemwide efforts to further this goal, we remain steadfastly committed to cultivating an environment where all are afforded the opportunity to live, learn and teach safely and peacefully, no matter who they are, where they come from, or how they pray. UC said the settlement followed previously established reforms to combat antisemitism. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. This article was adapted from our premium politics newsletter, The Blast, which delivers exclusive reporting, nonpartisan analysis and the first word on political moves across the state. Subscribe today. Members of the Texas House Democratic Caucus have gone to New Mexico for the day to meet with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. Its not a quorum break unlike the last time Texas Democrats sent a contingent to New Mexico but another chance for Democrats to lock arms nationally against the mid-decade redistricting effort in the Lone Star State. House Democrats headed to Santa Fe on Tuesday include: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaker Pro Tempore Joe Moody of El Paso Jon Rosenthal of Houston, vice chair of the Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting John Bucy of Austin Salman Bhojani of Euless Erin Elizabeth Gamez of Brownsville Josey Garcia of San Antonio Christian Manuel of Port Arthur Its the THDCs third such expeditionary force this special session after members traveled to California and Illinois on Friday to meet with Govs. Gavin Newsom and JB Pritzker. Democrats frame the coalition as a national firewall against Texas map redraw pushed by President Donald Trump and called by Gov. Greg Abbott as Republicans look to retain the U.S. House in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York will travel to Austin on Wednesday, underscoring the national spotlight on Austin. Unlike Newsom and Pritzker, Lujan Grisham isnt considering retaliatory redistricting because theres no more juice to squeeze out of New Mexico. The states three congressional seats are already held by Democrats. Instead, Texas Democrats are using the trip to argue that Abbott and Republicans are wasting time with redistricting as opposed to prioritizing a legislative response to the recent Central Texas floods. Flash floods have hit the New Mexico mountain town of Ruidoso three times in less than a month during the ongoing monsoon season. One of the floods killed three people. The town is expected to get more rain Tuesday. Were traveling to meet with leaders who put people first in a crisis, Moody said in a statement, contrasting New Mexico with Texas focus on redistricting. Were seeking serious, productive conversations with other governors about how to solve the real problems Texans expect and deserve their leaders to solve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flood response is on Abbotts call for the special session, but the Republican-controlled Legislature could adopt a new congressional map first, making it politically unpalatable for Democrats to break quorum with flood debate still to come. Additionally, the day trip teases the possibility that House Democrats could leave Austin for longer, grinding the special session to a halt by denying the Legislature enough members to conduct business. House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu of Houston last week suggested a quorum break is on the table as the minority weighs its options to thwart redistricting. Between the trips to California, Illinois and now New Mexico, 22 Democrats have taken a trip out of state during the special session under threat of being compelled back to Austin. It would take 51 of the caucus 62 Democrats to successfully break quorum. Our message to leaders across the country has been simple: if they can steal five seats in Texas by breaking the rules, your state is next, Rosenthal said in a statement. The lineup for The Texas Tribune Festival continues to grow! Be there when all-star leaders, innovators and newsmakers take the stage in downtown Austin, Nov. 1315. The newest additions include comedian, actor and writer John Mulaney; Dallas mayor Eric Johnson; U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minnesota; New York Media Editor-at-Large Kara Swisher; and U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso. Get your tickets today! TribFest 2025 is presented by JPMorganChase. Seven Texas House Democrats travel to meet with New Mexicos governor Editors Note: The above video is KXANs previous coverage of Texas Democrats media event with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on July 25, 2025. AUSTIN (Nexstar) After traveling to California and Illinois last Friday, a group of Texas House Democrats are headed to New Mexico to meet with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. Their goal is to continue the Caucus national effort to build a firewall against the corrupt, racially-motivated redistricting scheme being forced on Texans by Donald Trump via Greg Abbott, according to a press release. The travelling group consists of: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaker pro Tempore Joe Moody, D-El Paso Redistricting Committee Vice Chair Jon Rosenthal, D-Cypress State Rep. John Bucy, D-Austin State Rep. Salman Bhojani, D-Euless State Rep. Erin Gamez, D-Brownsville State Rep. Josey Garcia, D-San Antonio State Rep. Christian Manuel, D-Nederland Were traveling to meet with leaders who put people first in a crisis, Moody said. A recent flood in Ruidoso took three lives, and disaster relief there has been New Mexicos top priority ever since. Meanwhile, weeks after devastating floods that killed 137 people many of them children families in the Hill Country are still waiting and watching as our state puts a divisive political power grab first. State Rep. John Bucy, D Austin, hinted that this would not be the final out-of-state trip for Texas Democrats. He said the delegation asked Gov. Lujan Grisham to connect them with more governors around the country to sound the alarm about whats happening in Texas. We will continue to do everything we can to fight back against this authoritarian power grab that Donald Trump is doing, Bucy said. He did say the possibility of a quorum break did not come up in the conversation with the Democratic governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Efforts to redraw Texas U.S. Congressional map were first rumored in early June, escalating when Gov. Greg Abbott placed the topic on the 30-day special session call sheet. Abbott said the redistricting requests come in light of constitutional concerns raised by the U.S. Department of Justice, after the Department of Justice sent a letter to Texas accusing its current districts of being racially discriminatory. On Monday, the Texas Senate floated the idea of issuing a subpoena to the letters author, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon. Two weeks ago, President Trump said his goal is to flip five seats in Texas from Democratic to Republican. If successful, Texas would have 30 Republican U.S. Representatives to eight Democratic U.S. Representatives a 79-21% split. Republicans currently hold 66% of congressional seats while only gaining 58% of the total congressional votes in the 2024 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those five seats could be crucial for the second half of Trumps term, as he currently holds a slim 219-212 majority in the U.S. House, with four vacant seats (three caused by Democratic member deaths). In 2018, the last midterm election with Trump in office, Democrats flipped 41 seats. They flipped two Texas seats in that election, with Republicans taking home only 50.4% of the statewide House votes (while still holding onto 64% of House seats). These out-of-state trips have also come during a time when some caucus members have committed to fleeing the state to break quorum. If 51 of the 62 House Democrats fail to appear, the House would not reach the two-thirds threshold to conduct business. All 11 Senate Democrats could also fail to appear after former State Sen. Kelly Hancock resigned and lowered the Senates quorum threshold. In a quorum break, Texas leaders are allowed to forcibly bring members to Austin to complete their duties, which is why Democrats would likely be looking for a temporary home in a favorable state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. CHEATHAM COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) Emergency crews in Cheatham County recently took several men from the same home to a local hospital. Now, the home in Chapmansboro is sealed off with crime tape alongside a condemned sign on the front door. Stolen guns, drugs recovered after stolen items tracked by GPS in Nashville Bodycam video obtained by News 2 shows the moments first responders arrived to the residence on Friday, July 25. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As seen on video, a man told law enforcement that he stays and cooks for the men at the home as law enforcement began to arrive at the scene. When Cheatham County deputies entered the home, they reportedly observed several men in various room. Investigators added none of the men were related. Officials said a man found on the floor in a bedroom near the back of the home was alive, had his eyes open, but was unresponsive. Can you hear me boss? Blink your eyes if you can hear me, a deputy could be heard asking the man on video. Emergency crews reportedly arrived to the home and immediately loaded the man into an ambulance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement VIDEO: Wanted man arrested in motel after Cheatham County deputies team up with bondsmen Meanwhile, bodycam footage captured deputies talking to their supervisors and explaining the situation at the home, describing the conditions as unsanitary. Theres urine, feces and flies everywhere, said one deputy. Soon, more ambulances arrived and EMS personnel attended to the other four men in the home for various medical issues. One EMS worker could be heard advising crews to triage everyone to get an idea of whats going on. As of Monday, there are still many questions about the house, the men and why they were there. Investigators told News 2 that multiple agencies, includingTennessee Adult Protective Services, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, the Cheatham County Sheriffs Office and the countys codes officeare all investigating what happened at the home. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com As of publication, no arrests have been made. The TBI nor adult protective services would comment on the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials with the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission, which oversees licensure and regulation of state facilities, told News 2 that the home is not a license facility. No additional details were immediately released. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Jul. 28All of south-central Minnesota is under a high risk for severe thunderstorms Monday night, with damaging wind, hail, torrential rain and a few possible tornadoes. According to the National Weather Service, there is a potential for wind gusts greater than 70 mph in the area. The weather agency has rated the severe outlook probability as a 4 out of 5, with 5 being high risk and 4 being moderate risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The area has a 45 to 59% chance of having gusts exceeding 75 mph. Recent excessive rainfall across the area makes trees more susceptible to being damaged and uprooted. While the tornado and hail risks are lower than the damaging wind risk, they can't be ruled out, according to the Weather Service. Timing remains uncertain, but the storm is likely to hit Albert Lea between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. Torrential rainfalls are possible of between 2 and 3 inches per hour. The Brief A Shakopee police squad and a semi-truck crashed Monday afternoon on County Road 101. The State Patrol says the incident happened at about 4:45 p.m. The driver of the squad suffered minor injuries, while the driver of the truck was not injured. Authorities are asking motorists to avoid the area while the State Patrol investigates. SHAKOPEE, Minn. (FOX 9) - A Shakopee police squad car and a semi-truck crashed on County Road 101 in Shakopee Monday afternoon. No serious injuries What we know The Shakopee Police Department says the incident happened at about 4:40 p.m. at County Road 101 and Canterbury Road. The Minnesota State Patrol says a preliminary investigation shows a Shakopee police squad was heading eastbound on County Road 101 and a semi-truck was entering eastbound County Road 101 from Canterbury Road when the two vehicles collided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver of the police squad was hospitalized with minor injuries. The driver of the truck was not injured. Authorities say the police squad had its emergency lights on at the time of the crash. Sky FOX was over the scene, which showed significant damage to both the squad car and the semi-truck. Avoid the area What you can do Police are asking the public to avoid the area of County Road 101 between Shenandoah Drive and Valley Park Drive as the Minnesota State Patrol conducts their investigation. Shame Tamura, the gunman who opened fire inside 345 Park Ave. on Monday evening, had a lengthy history of mental health issues, officials said at a press conference. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said their law enforcement partners in Las Vegas, where Tamura lived, confirmed that the gunman had a documented mental health history. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said on Monday that Tamura had a documented history of mental health issues. REUTERS Tamura went on a deadly shooting rampage in Midtown on Monday, killing an NYPD cop and several others. Obtained by NY Post The exact details of his mental health are unclear. Tamura barged into the building owned by Rubin Management and opened fire in the lobby before making his way to the 33rd floor, where he shot and killed one woman before eventually turning the gun on himself. He killed four people total, including an NYPD officer in the lobby. IDF sources view the two names symbolically, likening them to a "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" duality, suggesting a true internal struggle within Syria's leader and his shifting alliances. The IDF is still suspicious of Syria's leader and wondering whether, between two of his names symbolic of his dual identities, he will turn out to be more of his jihadist past as Mohammad al-Julani or Ahmed Al-Sharaa, the suit and tie wearing technocrat official he has portrayed himself as since taking power from the Assad regime in December 2024. IDF sources treat the two names as symbolic, with almost a "Dr. Jekyl" and "Mr. Hyde" dual personality quality, making it clear that they do believe there is a true internal struggle going on within Syria's leader as well as among his various allies and potential allies who are trying to pull him in one direction or another. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the balance is whether Israel now has a new, greater threat in Syria than even the Assad regime, if not in sophistication of weapons, then in ferocity and commitment of its forces to invading and fighting against non-Muslims. Or now has a unique opportunity to reach a long-term stable ceasefire or evennormalization with a country which has been hostile to Jerusalem since the founding of the state, including a new regime which will continue to cut off any Iranian attempts to reform a ring of fire around its borders. To date, the IDF gives very high marks to al-Sharaa and his forces for preventing Iran and Hezbollah from smuggling arms through Syria into Lebanon. Leader of new Syrian administration, Ahmed al Sharaa and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan (not seen) watch the view of Damascus on Mount Qasioun following their meeting in Damascus, Syria on December 22, 2024 (credit: Murat Gok/Anadolu via Getty Images) It also gives high marks to him for keeping out Iranian forces in general, though a small number of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps officials have managed to remain in parts of Syria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both in private but also in public, al-Sharaa has said he has no desire to fight Israel and could even potentially reach normalization with it sometime in 2026. These are remarkable and strategic changes which could see Syria join the Abraham Accords - something no one would have thought remotely possible a year ago. However, Israel has seen downsides which suggest that "Dr. Julani," who spent years leading a wing of al-Qaeda terrorists, could still be in the picture right behind "Mr. al-Sharaa." In the Spring, allies of Julani massacred Alawite-Shiite Syrians in Western Syria, and last week, some of his allies massacred Syrian-Druze in Sweida in southern Syria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel verbally blasted Julani for allowing - or some say behind the scenes ordering - some of his forces to massacre the Alawites and said this proved he was stil a dangerous jihadist who the West should shun, but took no large actions to protect them because it was far off from Israel's border and because the Alawites are open enemies of Israel. In contrast, the IDF said that to try to stop Julani's forces from massacring Syrian Druze in Sweida last week, it had attacked Syrian forces allied with Julani 140 times, including the Syrian Defense Ministry Headquarters in Damascus. With Sweida, Israel intervened both because it was closer to its border and because of the alliance between Israel and the Druze population, some of whom are Israelis and some who are in Syria. The above Israeli attacks in Syria were in addition to a total of 300 general attacks by the IDF in Syria in 2025, often against military vehicles or capabilities, and not against Julani's forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel had attacked far more Syrian Assad-era military targets in a blitz of attacks in December 2024 - as many as 600 targets using 1,800 munitions - as soon as the Assad regime fell and before Julani had truly solidified his hold on power. Regarding Julani's handling of the Sweida incident, IDF sources said that they did not believe he had intended the massacre to occur, but that it had happened since he does not yet have control over aspects of his Syrian forces whose backgrounds are entirely jihadist. Still, IDF sources would admit that he could have taken stronger measures to avoid such a massacre, and other top Israeli defense establishment sources have exclusively told the Jerusalem Post that Julani is not to be trusted, no matter how well he dresses. There is an additional complication that Julani may not agree to normalization without a return of the Israeli side of the Golan Heights, something which the 1990s Rabin, Netanyahu, and Barak governments seriously considered, but which has left the Israeli lexicon since ISIS took over large portions of Syria for a time during the 2010s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also, to achieve any long-term ceasefire, Julani would demand that Israel withdraw from the buffer zone it took in southern Syria in December 2024, and the latest massacre in Sweida makes it less likely that Israel will do so in the near future, absent heavy pressure from the Trump administration. Further, IDF sources warned that Julani could come under the influence of Turkey and Qatar, both powers that have helped him and his forces with weapons and financing to overthrow the Assad regime. From the perspective of worrying about a Turkey-Qatar-Syria alliance, it might be better for Israel if the West and the Saudis continue to warm up to Julani and to help him with funding, so as to try to keep him under some Western-Saudi influence, which is more friendly to Israel. Based on those concerns, IDF sources said that Israel hotly debated whether it should go as far as to target the Syrian Defense Ministry during the Sweida episode. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some were concerned that such an attack could push Julani into the hands of Turkey and Qatar and away from the West and from any improved arrangements with Israel. In that spirit, the IDF did not rush to attack the ministry, but rather tried other, less serious attacks first to hint to Julani to control his forces. However, IDF sources said that once Julani ignored the initial, smaller level attacks, Israel thought it had no choice other than to attack a bigger target to try to end the massacre. There were also complexities in that Julani's forces and allies were split into three groups, including jihadist militias with around 3,000 fighters, the more formal army with 3,000-4,000 fighters, and some defense ministry forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite efforts to bring all of the militias into the army, either Julani lacks the power to make all of his allies join the army, or he has decided that allowing certain allied militias to continue to exist to do dirty work on behalf of his army, is a useful tactic for promoting massacres against his enemies, while having plausible deniability. After all of this, Julani is still viewed as an undecided-unclear figure - new ally or new foe - even nine months after taking power. Other problems remain in Syria There are around 3,000 Palestinian Islamic Jihad fighters, a few hundred Hamas fighters, and a medium number of ISIS fighters. In terms of the hundreds and then around 1,000 Israeli Druze who broke into Syria past IDF forces during the Sweida episode, as well as the 100 Syrian Druze who entered Israel illegally then, the IDF was surprisingly unapologetic about the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The IDF did say that there would be more physical barriers and forces trained to stop such low-scale public order problems in the future (generally, soldiers are trained to fight terrorist invaders heading into Israel, not to stop unarmed Israeli Druze from leaving it in large groups to help their brethren try to survive a massacre.) But IDF sources also said that a battalion commander had decided to physically open a gate to allow Israeli-Druze into Syria when he thought that the physical pressure they were placing on the gate was itself dangerous. Not only is this battalion commander not being reprimanded, but IDF sources said that they believed he had acted exactly the right way under complex circumstances. According to IDF sources, the only alternative for IDF troops to what actually happened would have been to start shooting at the knees of unarmed Israeli-Druze trying to break through the border, something which probably also would have led to accidental deaths, and according to the IDF, much worse criticism than the criticism it ended up receiving. There was also discussion of the idea that Sweida was so far away, at 80 kilometers from the border, that the IDF may have had an idea that the Israeli-Druze would not actually get very far on foot and would have to return home shortly after their "invasion" to help their brethren. NEED TO KNOW Roland Schmidt, 76, is charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of his daughter-in-law Christine Moyer Ppolice said Schmidt allegedly killed Moyer, 45, over divorce paperwork which was filed against his son The murder occurred outside a hotel in Schaumburg, Ill. An Illinois man is behind bars after allegedly shooting his daughter-in-law as she was leaving a family wedding. Schaumburg police allege Roland Schmidt, 76, killed Christine Moyer, 45, over divorce paperwork which was filed against his son," according to a press release from the Schaumburg Police Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schmidt is charged with first-degree murder, according to the Daily Herald. At a hearing on Monday, July 28, prosecutors said Schmidt had planned the killing for a week and was going to commit suicide afterwards, WGN9 reported. He executed her in the presence of her own family, Cook County Ellen Mandeltort said when ordering him held without bail, per the Daily Herald. Per the police press release, officers responded to a parking lot after a report of a shooting at about 10:15 p.m. on Friday, July 25. Officers discovered Moyer near the front entrance of a Marriott Hotel with a gunshot wound to the head. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. She was transported to the Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, where she later died, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schmidt was subdued on the ground by a citizen and turned over to police, according to the press release. Police found a firearm at the scene. Police said Schmidt followed Moyer out of the building, approached her and then shot her in the head. Schmidt is scheduled to appear again in court on Aug. 22, per ABC7. Read the original article on People A Hong Kong conglomerate thats selling ports at the Panama Canal said yesterday it may seek a Chinese investor to join a consortium of buyers, a move that could please Beijing but bring more U.S. scrutiny to the geopolitically fraught deal. CK Hutchison Holdings initial plan to sell port assets in dozens of countries to a group that includes U.S. investment firm BlackRock Inc. pleased President Donald Trump, who has alleged that China interferes with the critical shipping lanes operations in Panama. However, they apparently angered Beijing and drew a review from Chinese anti-monopoly authorities. A Beijing-backed newspaper posted scathing commentaries about the deal, with one describing it as a betrayal of all Chinese. Beijings offices overseeing Hong Kong affairs have reposted some of these commentaries, widely seen as an indication of Chinese leaders stance. A Hutchison subsidiary has operated ports at both ends of the Panama Canal since 1997. After months of uncertainty brought by tensions between Washington and Beijing, Hutchison said in a statement that the exclusive negotiations period with the consortium has expired. However, it added the Group remains in discussions with members of the consortium with a view to inviting major strategic investor from the PRC to join as a significant member of the consortium, referring to the Peoples Republic of China. It said they needed to change the membership of the consortium and the structure of the transaction for the deal to be able to pass reviews by all relevant authorities. The awkward position Hutchison found itself in for months highlights the challenges Hong Kong business elites face in navigating Beijings expectations of national loyalty, especially when relations between China and the United States are strained. Hong Kong has overhauled its electoral system to ensure the city is run by patriots. CK Hutchison is owned by the family of Hong Kongs richest man, Li Ka-shing. It announced March 4 that it would sell all its shares in Hutchison Port Holdings and in Hutchison Port Group Holdings to the consortium that also includes BlackRock subsidiary Global Infrastructure Partners and Terminal Investment Limited, a subsidiary of the Mediterranean Shipping Company. In May, Hutchinson co-managing director, Dominic Lai told shareholders that Terminal Investment was the main investor. Its parent company is led by Italian shipping scion Diego Aponte, whose family reportedly has a longstanding relationship with Lis. The initial deal, valued at nearly $23 billion including $5 billion in debt, would have given the consortium control over 43 ports in 23 countries, including the ports of Balboa and Cristobal, located at either end of the canal. That agreement also required approval from Panamas government. The deadline for their exclusive negotiation period ended on July 27. KANIS LEUNG, HONG KONG, MDT/AP Like this: Like Loading... BERNALILLO, N.M. (KRQE) The Town of Bernalillo Police Department Police Chief issued a shelter-in-place order for residents east of the Rio Grande late Monday night. The shelter-in-place order was lifted early Tuesday morning. Details are limited, but a Bernalillo Police Department social media post said police are pursuing a potentially violent individual. Bernalillo Police Chief Chris Stoyell said the shooting happened at Rotary Park in Bernalillo. The first call came in about 8:39 p.m. Two people were shot. One person died, the other was taken to the hospital with injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police chief told KRQE they are still searching for the suspect and they are trying to confirm the description of who it might be. Police havent released the name of the person who was killed. The chief said the other victim is in stable condition. Anyone with information is asked to call the Bernalillo Police Department at 505-898-7585. This is a developing story; KRQE News 13 will provide updates as they become available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) Three people have been arrested in connection with a total of 14 vehicle burglaries at two hotels in West Baton Rouge Parish on Monday, July 28. According to the West Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office, Jeremiah Turner, 18, of Baton Rouge, Donovan Hayes Jr., 23, of Baton Rouge, and a 14-year-old were taken into custody. A total of three people were arrested in connection with 14 vehicle burglaries in West Baton Rouge Parish. (Left to right): Jeremiah Turner, Donovan Hayes Jr. While investigating, deputies confirmed the hotels where the burglaries took place were located along the LA 415/Lobdell corridor in Port Allen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two guns were reported stolen. A vehicle seen leaving the scene, identified as a Ford Fusion, was later confirmed to have been reported stolen out of Jefferson Parish. Turner and Hayes were booked into the West Baton Rouge Detention Center on the following charges: Jeremiah Turner 14 counts of aggravated burglary 14 counts of contributing to the delinquency of juveniles flight from an officer illegal possession of stolen things Donovan Hayes Jr. 14 counts of aggravated burglary 14 counts of contributing to the delinquency of juveniles As of Tuesday morning, Turner and Hayes remain in custody with no bond set. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 14-year-old juvenile was taken to a juvenile detention facility and booked on: 12 counts of aggravated burglary Let this be a clear message: if you come into West Baton Rouge Parish to commit crimes, we will find you and we will hold you accountable, said Sheriff Jeff Bergeron. I commend our deputies for their swift work and thank the Port Allen Police Department for their valued assistance in bringing these suspects to justice. Baton Rouge mother who faced deportation reunites with family Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. A sheriff's office in Oklahoma is investigating an incident during a state Board of Education meeting last week that reportedly involved images of naked women on the state school superintendent's office television. The images were seen during the boards executive session, held in Superintendent Ryan Walters office, The Oklahoman newspaper of Oklahoma City reported, citing members Ryan Deatherage and Becky Carson, who attended the meeting. NBC News has not confirmed the accounts of Deatherage and Carson, who were both nominated by Gov. Kevin Stitt, a Republican. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office has launched a probe, spokesperson Aaron Brilbeck said, after a request from the agency that oversees human resources matters for the state government. Senate President Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton and state Sen. Adam Pugh, both Republicans, said in a joint news release Friday that the Office of Management and Enterprise Services, which oversees HR matters, was leading an inquiry into the incident and was working through proper channels to initiate an investigation. This is a bizarre and troubling situation that raises serious questions about the events and what took place during yesterdays executive session at the Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting, Paxton said in a statement about the Board of Education's meeting, held Thursday. Board members accounts, he added, "paint a strange, unsettling scene that demands clarity and transparency." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Office of Management and Enterprise Services didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Follow live politics coverage here A legislative assistant to House Common Education Committee Chairman Dick Lowe, Caitlin Kilpatrick, pointed NBC News to reporting by the news outlet NonDoc that said Lowe attended the meeting. Lowe told the publication that while he didnt see the video of the naked women, he discussed the matter with the two board members who did view the images. Shocked would be maybe an understatement a little bit. In the position that that person is in, thats absolutely without a question not appropriate by any means for any state official, much less that state official, Lowe told NonDoc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walters, a conservative Republican, characterized the accounts from Deatherage and Carson as "politically motivated attacks" in a statement Monday. "These are desperate lies from a broken establishment terrified of real change," he added. Walters has pushed for proposals to further integrate religion in schools, such as placing Bibles in them. He has also advocated for requiring students enrolled in state public schools to provide proof of U.S. citizenship. In an earlier statement after the allegations surrounding the meeting arose, Walters denied any wrongdoing. "Any suggestion that a device of mine was used to stream inappropriate content on the television set is categorically false. I have no knowledge of what was on the TV screen during the alleged incident, and there is absolutely no truth to any implication of wrongdoing," Walters said Sunday on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deatherage, Carson and the four other members of the Board of Education, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. State House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, a Republican, called the allegations "serious," and said that "an expeditious third-party review is warranted." "I urge the State Superintendent to unlock and turn over all relevant devices and fully cooperate with an investigation. If no wrongdoing occurred, a prompt and transparent review should quickly clear his name, Hilbert said in a statement Monday. State House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson, a Democrat, said in a statement Monday that the Democratic Caucus has made six calls over the last two years requesting a special bipartisan committee to investigate Walters about other matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Before these recent allegations came out, he has shown multiple times throughout his leadership that he has no interest in bettering the public education system for students and teachers. He is mainly concerned with advancing his own political and religious agendas," she said. "These new allegations are serious and troubling, and while we wait for the investigation to be finished, I think its prudent to acknowledge that there has been a dire need for change in leadership at the Oklahoma State Department of Education for a long time." This article was originally published on NBCNews.com JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. A state representative from northwest Missouri is eying a senate seat once held by her husband. State Rep. Brenda Shields, R-St. Joseph, announced her intentions to run for a state senate seat being vacated by State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, also a Republican. Shields husband, Charlie Shields, was a senator from the St. Joseph area and served as the Senate President Pro Tem. People in my community kept asking me if Id be interested in serving, she told FOX 2 News before announcing her candidacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 1 dead, 1 critically injured after altercation at north STL Wendys Shields is a former analyst for Quaker Oats. She went on to teach business and was chosen to be the president and CEO of the United Way of Greater St. Joseph. I really listen to both sides, Shields said. (Ive worked to) pass and work on legislation that I think is important for the families in our state. Shields said she and her husband remain committed to serving their community. We went eight years as a family with no one serving in the legislature, she said. It was very peaceful in our house. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. A suspected gunman was arrested and two women transported to hospitals after a shooting at a Granada Hills day care on Tuesday afternoon, authorities said. Paramedics responded to a residence where a day care is located, at 17320 W. Firma Court, around 12:30 p.m., according to Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson Lyndsey Lantz. The two women were taken to a hospital in stable condition, and the LAFD worked with the day care and L.A. police to reunite children with their parents, she said. LAPD Capt. Kathleen Burns said that the shooting appeared to have been a targeted attack potentially motivated by "some type of family violence or domestic violence." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was not yet clear whether the shooting took place in proximity to any children. When L.A. Police Department officers arrived at the scene, they found one person suffering from a non-life-threatening gunshot wound, according to a department spokesperson. No information was available on the second patient's wounds, the spokesperson said. The suspected gunman fled the scene in a Tesla, and officers found the vehicle and arrested him without incident near Balboa Boulevard and Sherman Way about seven miles from the scene of the shooting, police said. The weapon believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered, Burns said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The site of the shooting, Kids Dream Learning Center, is in a residential area of Granada Hills and offers programs for infants, toddlers and preschool-age children from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, according to its website. A representative for the center confirmed Wednesday that no children were harmed but did not wish to comment further on the incident. Although the shooting took place on the day care's property, it was not immediately known whether it took place indoors or outdoors and what degree of danger children might have been exposed to, Lantz said. City News Service contributed to this report. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Warning: This piece includes accounts of sexual assault and rape. It was the last place I wanted to be, but with a fever spiking 104 degrees Fahrenheit, I couldnt avoid it. Unbearable pain shot through my body. Pins and needles pricked my almost numb legs. As a technician slid me into the MRI tube, I thought about leaving against medical advice. I had been sick for weeks before going to the emergency room. Every day, I told myself it would be better in the morning, as I had done with every illness for years. But it didnt get better this time. I didnt know I was septic with an abscess on my spine and literally fighting for my life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The MRI technician, seeing my agony, gently removed my shoes. Try not to move, but press this if you have any trouble, she said, handing me a small button connected to a long cable. During the procedure, she occasionally stopped the test, asking if I was OK. I held my breath, praying the pain would recede, singing songs in my head to calm myself. Sixty minutes later, she walked me to the waiting room. Moments later, she returned with a gurney. The prior few years had been brutal, with one medical tragedy after another. My mothers cancer. My fathers liver transplant. Their fatal car crash. And now this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For decades, Id lived as if my life were perfect: I had a best friend for a husband, a dream job, a wonderful support system of friends and family, and a life filled with music. On the outside, it was idyllic. On the inside, anxiety ripped me apart. I was terrified to see health care providers and compelled myself to stay well, often ignoring the lifelong complications from a birth defect. At birth, doctors told my parents I would never walk because of my broken and dislocated hips due to bilateral hip dysplasia. They were wrong, but I walked with a severe limp, leaving me self-conscious and shame-filled. Every six months throughout my early teens, I underwent X-rays to monitor my condition. During one of those appointments, the technician sexually abused me. I told no one, as he instructed, but carried the abuse in my bones. Three years after that incident, a music teacher raped me daily for over a year. My eventual disclosure led to his conviction and a 30-year prison term, but it didnt erase the hell Id lived through. After the sentencing, I rebuilt my life, but the trauma continued to affect my long-term health. A clinical psychologist diagnosed me with post-traumatic stress disorder. I experienced flashbacks and night terrors that woke me in the middle of the night as if I were being raped all over again. The experience was so overwhelming and disorienting that, at times, I didnt know where I was. My anxiety was often highest in situations where I had little control, like a doctors office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any time a health concern or even a routine checkup approached, I wrestled with feelings of despair and often canceled the appointment. The thought of lying prone or hearing the whispery crackle of the examination table paper threw me into sheer panic. By my mid-30s, the constant throbbing in my hips brought me to tears. Intense pain woke me at night. I recognized I needed to address my hip problem, but knowing Id require X-rays stopped me dead in my tracks. Witnessing my parents endure severe medical challenges, including a liver transplant, cancer and a life-threatening blood infection, intensified my anxieties. Hospitals and medical facilities, I learned, were scary places filled with suffering and death. I didnt know how to approach medical providers about what I was going through. Even when I tried to phone ahead and explain my fears, receptionists informed me I had to be an established patient to speak with the doctor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So instead, I avoided medical care, like so many other trauma survivors. Pain in my side? Im sure it will go away. Cut on my hand? Ill suture it myself. Urinary tract infection? Ill take my dogs expired antibiotics. Anything to avoid the terror and loss of control. Until I became septic. The author singing at Pittsburgh Action Against Rapes Teal Ball in 2019. Courtesy of Gill Porr Twelve hours after the MRI, the neurosurgeon admitted me to the hospital for emergency surgery to remove the abscess on my spine. Because I had waited so long, the infection had spread to my bloodstream and now my organs had begun to fail. I had to decide: face my fears or die. I found myself trapped in a traumatizing and impersonal system. I was a body, a number, an infection. Orderlies pushed me through the operating room doors without looking at me. A team of faceless people donning gowns and masks scurried around the room. I was simultaneously invisible and the center of attention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They transferred me from the gurney to the operating room table while an anesthesiologist administered anesthesia. Medical staff asked me questions and moved my body around like a rag doll. Beeping instruments pierced any calm I struggled to maintain. As they covered me with a warm blanket, the surgeon told me to count backward from 10. I fought to stay awake, to stay in control. Four hours later, I opened my eyes. The infectious disease doctor, a towering man with a gentle face, softly said, You are a very sick woman, but we are going to figure this out. While these words were so kind, the experience still felt nightmarish as the medical team worked to treat the infection coursing through me. I had to submit myself to and rely on medical providers who barely introduced themselves while drawing blood, placing IVs, asking questions, and taking me for scans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our health care system is challenging to navigate. This model a labyrinth of complexities, rules, regulations and constraints often overlooks the whole patient. For people dealing with serious illnesses or who have suffered significant trauma, such as sexual violence or medical trauma, it can be even more harrowing. Managing appointments, choosing doctors, scheduling and undergoing invasive tests, and engaging insurance are stressful and exhausting experiences for most people. But when someone is suffering from PTSD, the anxiety is heightened. What I needed and didnt know until years later, was a trauma-informed health care provider. Trauma-informed health care providers understand the high prevalence of trauma. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) specifies that a trauma-informed system includes providers who realize the impact of and the potential for healing from trauma, recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma in their patients and systems, respond by integrating that knowledge into their practices, and resist traumatizing already traumatized individuals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A fear of doctors is quite common. Research suggests that about one third of adults avoided doctor visits they had deemed necessary. Although less than 3% have an actual diagnosis of iatrophobia (fear of physicians, medical care, or the medical care system), many people never seek a diagnosis for their condition and instead engage in avoidance behaviours. This doesnt surprise me. I have dozens of firsthand narratives of people avoiding care. Some of them have died because of it. This is such a pervasive issue that Saturday Night Live featured a sketch called Medcast, which reimagined doctor visits as lighthearted podcast-style experiences to encourage men who avoid seeing their doctors to engage in health care. Despite the magnitude of the problem, we dont talk about it. In fact, many doctors whom I have approached about this issue have said, We cant do anything for these people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know we can. Trauma-informed providers could mean the difference between life and death for treatment-adverse patients by simply creating a safe space for everyone. Many people equate being trauma-informed with being compassionate. While compassion is important, it isnt enough. Re-traumatization is usually unintentional and sometimes built into systems. For example, the use of restraints or cutting off someones clothing during an emergency. Providers can combat this by implementing SAMHSAs six principles of trauma-informed care, including Safety, Trustworthiness and Transparency, Collaboration, and Empowerment as a scaffolding to create safe environments. Patients may feel more comfortable sharing concerns when they know a provider is trauma-informed, and practitioners may feel less frustrated when they look at patient behaviors through a trauma-informed lens. The author and her husband, Jeff, during a hike at Ricketts Glen State Park in Pennsylvania in 2015. Courtesy of Beth Docherty Unfortunately, its difficult to find trauma-informed health care providers. Medical programs dont embed it in their curriculums; if they do, its typically a single lecture or a brief four-week course for those specializing in child maltreatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many people are working to educate health care providers on becoming trauma-informed, but the progress is slow. Until there is a more established curriculum, patients must advocate for themselves. Calling local rape crisis centers or trauma-informed therapists is a great first step. They often have a list of providers who are good with trauma survivors. Next would be to interview your doctors. Dont be afraid to ask questions, use notes at an appointment, or speak openly about your concerns. Health care providers should be a partner in your health care journey. The sepsis was my breaking point, and although it almost killed me, the experience saved my life. The recovery took an entire year. I endured eight weeks of daily intravenous antibiotics, sustained nerve damage, and underwent months of physical therapy. But during my treatment, I learned what trauma-informed care looked like. For example, the compassion shown by the infectious disease doctor and neurosurgeon, along with the providers who fostered a safe space by introducing themselves and seeking my permission before touching me, helped me understand what I needed to feel safe. As I built trust with my providers, I took a chance and shared my fears with a therapist. To my surprise, I learned that many sexual abuse survivors develop a health care aversion and avoid doctors. After working through my trauma, I found an orthopedic surgeon who replaced both of my hips, something I never imagined doing. He practiced trauma-informed principles and helped me feel safe, empowered, and like we were collaborating in my health care. When I shared my trauma history and fears about being catheterized for surgery, he looked at me and said, Im so sorry that happened to you. Thank you for telling me. He changed my life. Now, I can walk and dance pain-free. His positive, nonjudgmental response gave me the courage to seek my next trauma-informed provider. Now, I am committed to educating current and future providers about the importance of trauma-informed health care. I dream that one day everyone who is sick feels safe enough to get the care they need, and no one will consider abandoning an MRI or health care altogether. Beth Docherty is the principal of The TRUST Project, a research and outreach initiative dedicated to educating medical professionals and students on the links between trauma, health and well-being. She lectures and speaks nationally at universities, conferences, medical facilities and public events about trauma-informed care. She is a member of the Physical and Behavioral Health Action Team of the HEAL PA initiative to implement trauma-informed care across the state of Pennsylvania. Need help? Visit RAINNs National Sexual Assault Online Hotline or the National Sexual Violence Resource Centers website. Do you have a compelling personal story youd like to see published on HuffPost? Find out what were looking for here and send us a pitch at pitch@huffpost.com. Related... A popular coffee company has issued a recall for some single-serve coffee pods due to contamination concerns. New Mexico Pinon Coffee announced in a press release that it was voluntarily recalling 154 boxes of its Dark Pinon Single Serve Cups, which have 10 pods per box. The recall was issued because of the potential introduction of food coloring into the cups, which are compatible with Keurig machines, during brewing. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified the recall as Class III on July 15, according to a report. A Class II recall is a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences, as noted by the FDA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FDA report further explained the reason for the recall, saying it was because the clear coat seal on the lid of the single serve cups did not get applied consistently to all cups in the production run which resulted in the food safe ink printing on some cups to run when exposed to high temperature, high-pressure water used in a K-cup machine. The contamination affects about boxes of coffee pods with the Best by Date of May 8, 2026, and the lot code 251749. Affected boxes have the Product Number: F03308 and the UPC: 812361033081. The FDA declared the coffee pod recall as Class III on July 15 (Getty Images) The recalled coffee pods were sold at popular retailers nationwide, including Target, Costco, Walmart, and Kroger. Although there werent any reports of illness or injury, consumers are urged to throw affected pods away or return them to the place of purchase. 154 boxes of Dark Pinon Single Serve Cups have been recalled (New Mexico Pinon Coffee) A spokesperson for New Mexico Pinon Coffee issued a statement about the recall to Newsweek on July 16, noting that quality means everything to the company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the issue was isolated and poses no health risk, it didn't meet the standard of excellence you've come to expect from us. We've already addressed the issue and taken steps to refine our process moving forward, the spokesperson said. We appreciate your patience, trust, and continued support as we hold ourselves to the highest standards. The coffee recall is the latest over contamination concerns. Earlier this month, Rich Ice Cream Co. recalled more than 110,292 cases of its various ice cream bars because the products may have been contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a disease-causing bacteria. As noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), listeria is a bacteria that can contaminate many foods, with infections caused by eating food with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. Although symptoms can vary, a listeria infection can cause invasive illness and intestinal illness. Listeria infection is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States, killing roughly 260 people per year. EDITORS NOTE: This story has been updated to correct the location of the incident and remove a video that contained the incorrect information. We apologize for the error. MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) A Myrtle Beach driver walked away unhurt Tuesday morning after the roadway gave out beneath his car while he was stopped at a traffic light near the Coastal Grand Mall. Myrtle Beach city officials said the sinkhole was caused by a broken six-inch water main, but an official with the Public Works Department told News13 later that it was caused by a broken 12-inch water main. The area where the sinkhole formed is near the Horry County Ride III construction site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Myrtle Beach police responded at about 4:30 a.m. to the intersection of Mall Drive and Harrelson Boulevard and found the front end of the car submerged in a large sinkhole. A Myrtle Beach Public Works employee told News13 that officials received a call between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. about low water pressure in the area. News13 photo / Skylar Musick News13 photo / Skylar Musick News13 photo / Skylar Musick News13 photo / Skylar Musick News13 photo / Skylar Musick The water in the area was shut off, and the car was removed from the hole Tuesday morning, officials said. The drivers father told News13 his son was stopped at the light when the car started to sink. Police said the driver walked away and was not hurt. While officials say it was nothing more than a mechanical issue, Myrtle Beach drivers Xavier Horne and Charleston Porter hope they arent the next driver caught in a freak accident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats shocking. Thats scary, too, Horne said. That is absolutely insane, Porter said. I hope that they are OK. That definitely needs to be fixed. Officials say they cut out and replaced the broken section of pipe where the water was turned back on around 1 p.m. We have movement in our soil between the hot and cold. This really wasnt heat-related, Public Works employee Chris Miller said. This was more of just a material failure. So its not unheard of that a fitting or a piece of pipe fails. Its unusual that this is brand new and that it has failed. Again, I dont want to say it was an act of God, but it was certainly out of the city of Myrtle Beachs control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The South Carolina Department of Transportation said Tuesday afternoon that the entrance to Mall Drive was closed to allow crews to begin repairing the roadway. The work is expected to be completed on Wednesday. * * * Dennis Bright is the Digital Executive Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here. * * * Skylar Musick is a multimedia journalist at News13. Skylar is originally from Long Island, New York. She joined the News13 team in June 2024 after graduating from Villanova University in May 2024. Follow Skylar on X, formerly Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, and read more of her work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * * * Gabby Jonas joined the News13 team as a multimedia journalist in April 2024. She is from Columbus, Ohio, and graduated from Kent State University in May 2023. Follow Gabby on X, formerly Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, and read more of her work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. It's not just heat impacting South Dakota this week. Sioux Falls is in line for some extreme weather tonight, July 28, with the chance of a wind gusts reaching 80 mph or greater or the system evolving into a derecho, with hurricane-force wind speeds. Laura Edwards, state climatologist with South Dakota State University, told the Argus Leader in 2022, "It's just weather." The climatologist, interviewed shortly after Sioux Falls was hit by two of the weather phenomenons in rapid succession, said one derecho will hit South Dakota every two to four years on average, usually in June or July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do you remember? Sioux Falls' sky turned green amid severe weather in 2022. See the strange phenomenon in photos What is a derecho? What is a derecho? Derechos can pack lethal gusts of wind in excess of 100 mph which is hurricane strength and stretch for many miles, lasting for hours. Storms that have sustained winds of at least 58 mph and leave a path of damage at least 250 miles long qualify as derechos, according to the National Weather Service. Derechos develop in the northern hemisphere during warm weather and may be accompanied, or preceded, by violent thunderstorms. A derecho may also create tornadoes. Parts of the Midwest see a derecho roughly once or twice every year, Accuweather said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Edwards would say derechos in South Dakota are not unheard of, they are rare rare enough for there to be a lack of scientific data on the true frequency of these weather events. In fact, Edwards said the most recent study that tracked the frequency of derechos across the nation the same one that said one derecho occurs in South Dakota every two to four years was written in 2004. "We get them so infrequently, they're so rare, it's hard to establish a trend," Edwards said. Edwards was hesitant to say there is a direct link between an unusual amount of derechos and climate change. "It's not something we can tie to a change in climate at all in any way," Edwards said. "Just a fluke thing in the end." Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez and Gabriela Velasquez contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: What is a derecho? See what a SDSU climatologist said: SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) With the 2025-26 school year right around the corner, educators are encouraging youth to get back in the learning mindset. While students are on summer break, it can lead to what many people call summer brain drain, where children and teenagers fail to retain any of the knowledge they learned during the previous school year. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Studies show that kids in grades three through five lose about 20% of their reading gains over the summer break. This can happen due to months without structured learning, and it results in teachers using extra class time to review what students have already learned the previous year. We can disguise some of our learning things as being fun. Like when we hosted the very first Comic-Con, the summer kids were writing, kids were creating, kids were working together, and it was all disguised as superhero comic book fun. And, so, when you start to break it down into a kids language and what they want to see and what they want to do, they lead the course, said Whitney Porn, the Youth Services Supervisor at the Norfolk Public Library. Whitney also encourages parents to get their kids back on their back-to-school sleep schedule as soon as possible. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. If Schindlers List left you shattered, prepare for a different, yet equally profound, kind of devastation with Dead to Rights, which opened in Macau and across the Chinese mainland on Friday. Adapted from another chapter of unspeakable horror the 1937 Nanjing Massacre, a WWII atrocity as searing as it is under-remembered in the West, Dead to Rights was released to mark the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese Peoples War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War. Its impressive debut with an 8.5/10 high score on Chinese review platform Douban and a staggering over 155 million yuan ($21.67 million) opening day signals more than just a box-office phenomenon. It feels like an 88-year-delayed trial by film that allows the world to bear witness. An infant killed under a bayonet, rivers running bloody red The atrocities depicted transported me viscerally back to the harrowing photographs seared into my memory at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall in Nanjing, East Chinas Jiangsu Province. The massacre, a historical trauma deeply etched in every Chinese heart, began on December 13, 1937 when Japanese invaders captured Nanjing, the then Chinese capital. Over six weeks of unimaginable brutality, approximately 300,000 Chinese civilians and disarmed soldiers were slaughtered. What struck me as particularly potent about Dead to Rights is its narrative and cautiously subtle camera shots. Unlike war epics that lean on grand battle scenes or heroics, director Shen Ao drills down into the claustrophobic confines of the Jixiang (Lucky) Photographic Studio in occupied Nanjing. Here, seven ordinary people, including a postman hiding as an apprentice named A Chang, a morally compromised translator, a displaced actress, and others simply trying to survive, are forced to develop film for the Japanese military. Their sole aim is to live another day. But the images emerging in the darkrooms crimson glow are undeniable evidence of war crimes trophies of massacre and torture. Faced with the physical proof of their peoples suffering, and the casual brutality of their occupiers, their instinct shifts from self-preservation to preservation of evidence. Their transformation feels organic, human, and devoid of forced heroics. As deadly as a bullet Unarmed against guns and swords, they turn the very negatives documenting Japanese atrocities into weapons. Shen plays with the double meaning of shoot, the click of a camera mirroring the crack of a rifle. In that war a photo was as deadly as a bullet, he said. This narrative backbone is rooted in terrifying fact. At the Beijing premiere last week, director Shen shared his inspiration for the film. In the real history, Luo Jin, an apprentice at Nanjings Huadong Photo Studio in 1938, risked his life to secretly copy horrific images from Japanese officers film negatives, compiling them into an album. Patriotic youth Wu Xuan later safeguarded this evidence, which became the pivotal evidence at the trial of war criminal Hisao Tani. The film brilliantly fictionalizes this act of immense courage into a taut, suspenseful battle for evidence. The films power lies in what it doesnt show. Scenes of violence against women are conveyed through shadows, reflections, and agonizing implication, a far more powerful and respectful approach than graphic depiction. The film exposes the grim reality behind supposed safety. Even within the Nanjing Safety Zone, figures like US missionary were assaulted, hospitals and womens colleges were violated, comfort women were seized, foreign journalists were detained and their film destroyed. The pervasive, suffocating terror is palpable without needing excessive gore. In addition, if humanitys light is revealed through its darkness, then the films brilliance lies in its character design that exposes the hypocrisy and inhuman depravity of the Japanese invaders. In the film, translator Wang Guanghais snarl Smile! reveals the occupiers hypocrisy. Before the lens, a forced tableau of friendship; while behind it, bodies pile up beneath fixed bayonets. The aggressors sought to weaponize these very photographs, attempting to whitewash their monstrous acts, recasting themselves as valiant soldiers, noble heroes, even benefactors uplifting China. This duplicity crystallizes in the character of Ito, a Japanese military photographer, who is aristocratic, refined, and even feeds stray dogs. Yet when a crying infant disrupts his shot, he offers only a faint frown and a command for quiet. A soldier instantly dashes the baby against the floor, leading to the babys death. As a mother, witnessing this shattered me. A definitive testament to the Nanjing Massacre The Japanese invaders cloaked themselves in high-minded ideals, invoking Confucius virtues like benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and fidelity, into their inhuman cruel slaughter. This reminds me of the scene from Schindlers List in which Nazi officers debated Bach or Mozart while orchestrating genocide. What is the monster who appreciates philosophy and art but despises life? Similarly with Schindler List, Dead to Rights rightfully claims its place as the definitive cinematic testament to the Nanjing Massacre. Its palette, though not monochrome, is steeped in oppressive grays, mirroring the moral abyss of that time. Against this darkness, the films most profoundly moving moment shines with defiant humanity. Trapped, facing almost certain death, the group in the photo studio decides to take a portrait photo. Not before a blank backdrop, but before painted scenes of their homeland. With solemn reverence, they cycle through canvases: the Forbidden City in Beijing, Tianjins bustling Quanye Market, Hangzhous West Lake Their fingers trace the painted landscapes, their eyes gazing far beyond the studio walls. Not one inch of our beautiful land shall be surrendered, they vow. Physically imprisoned, their spirits claim the entirety of China. A Changs assigned number, 1213, chillingly echoes the date of the massacres commencement, December 13, which is a silent, powerful mark of awakening. As the credits rolled, applause broke out, a collective tribute to history. Around me, countless eyes were red-rimmed. The true epilogue isnt a post-credit scene. Its stepping out of the cinema, looking up, and seeing the peaceful reflection of the Birds Nest stadium shimmering on a calm lake, embodying a vibrant, peaceful cityscape that endures. This is the legacy those in the darkroom fought for. This history the Nanjing Massacre must be remembered. It cannot be forgotten. Dead to Rights which is set to be released in the US, Australia, New Zealand and more in August ensures it wont be. Chen Xi, Global Times, Courtesy Global Times Like this: Like Loading... The Brief The sister of a 28-year-old murdered allegedly at the hands of a man free from jail on multiple bonds might never see justice. Devan Jordan is charged with capital murder in Joshua's death. At the time, Jordan was free from jail on bonds in Harris County and Fort Bend County. HARRIS COUNTY, Texas - The sister of a 28-year-old murdered allegedly at the hands of a man free from jail on multiple bonds might never see justice. Houston crime: Sister seeking resolution in the death of her brother What they're saying "Somebody killed Joshua, and he's no longer on this earth," said Joshua Sandoval's sister, Amiee Castillo. "Somebody needs to be held accountable for that." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Devan Jordan is charged with capital murder in Joshua's death. At the time, Jordan was free from jail on bonds in Harris County and Fort Bend County. "He had violated his bond, and they brought him back to court," said Andy Kahan with Crime Stoppers. "They had a court date set up for him. They are going to put him on an electronic monitor. Of course, Jordan doesn't show." What we know The day he failed to show up for court is the day police say Jordan killed Josh during a robbery. Two weeks later, Jordan killed Jeffrey Johnson in Galveston County. "In the history of modern-day history, we've never seen a defendant out on more than one capital murder charge," Kahan said. Dig deeper Jordan changed that by posting total bond amounts of $1,650,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last fall, Jordan was convicted in the murder of Jeffery Johnson. He got life in prison without parole. That leaves Aimee to wonder is she'll see Jordan stand trial in Harris County for her brother's death. "Unfortunately, I don't know. We have to wait for this appeal process in Galveston County, which could take years," she said. "But I want some kind of resolution in the end, whether it be a plea. The last thing we want is his case to be dismissed." The Harris County DA's Office says the case is active, and they declined any further comment. The Source FOX 26 Reporter Randy Wallace spoke with Andy Kahan with Houston Crime Stoppers as well as Joshua Sandoval's sister, Amiee Castillo. The family of a man who was shot and killed at a local daycare is speaking out. Melanie Russo said her brother Christopher Jones was picking his kids up from Auntie Lilis Child Care Center on Friday when he was killed by the mother of his children, 34-year-old Mindy Osteen. I am beyond devastated and heartbroken, said Russo. Deputies said that after Jones got done loading up his car and their sons, he sat in the drivers seat. Thats when Osteen walked up and shot him multiple times. After he was shot, deputies said he ran into the entryway of the daycare, where he was shot two more times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is still not real, said Russo. I keep thinking this was all a nightmare. According to Osteens arrest report, Osteen is heard saying, You got to die, Chris. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Officials said both parents had a history of domestic violence. A search through jail records shows Osteen having been arrested several times since 2013 on charges including battery, fraud, drug possession, and producing meth. A lot of domestic abuse on his end as far as verbal, physical, mental, emotional everything, said Russo. She had a lot of mental instability. Russo said he went to law enforcement to try and get help for Osteen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nobody took it serious, and thats devastating because of how it ended, said Russo. Russo said Jones and Osteen separated at least 6-to-8 months before the shooting took place. Still, Russo said the abuse did not end. She continued to stalk, harass, and threaten himsending disturbing messages, showing up uninvited, and even attacking him during custody exchanges, wrote Russo on social media. Every incident was reported. Authorities were notified. Nothing was done. As she honors her brother, she wants others to know this: Men can be victims of domestic violence too, said Russo. You see people stand up every day for women and thank god for that and absolutely stand up for women, but why are we not standing up for men too? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men experienced intimate partner violence in 2022-2023. If you would like to help the family, you can visit their GoFundMe. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Six women from Maryland are facing charges after allegedly breaking into a Norwood home. Norwood police responded to a home on Neponset Street around 12:30 p.m. on July 25., the Norwood Police Department said Tuesday. Responding officers spoke with the residents, who told investigators they had returned home to find several women in their home. When confronted by the homeowners, the women ran into a nearby car and sped away from the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A short time later, a Norwood police officer observed a vehicle matching the suspect description and attempted to stop the car, Norwood police say. The vehicle failed to stop and police briefly followed the vehicle before the 6 female suspects exited the vehicle on Dean Street and ran away into a nearby wooded area. The officer pursued and apprehended one of the six women. Other responding officers noticed the five remaining women behind a business on Pleasant Street. The women then ran away again but two officers were able to arrest two of them. A Norwood police officer and a Walpole detective apprehended two other women who attempted to flee across a nearby river. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police say the six women, Mirabela Caldarau, 42, Jajela Chiciu, 41, Flavia Caldararu, 22, Emilia Sardaru, 36, Mihaela Ion, 33, and Elizabeth Sardaru, 21 are all related and part of a criminal organization that operates in multiple states. The last remaining suspect was caught a short time later. The six women were transported to Dedham District Court to be arraigned on breaking & entering during daytime for a felony, conspiracy, possession of burglarious instruments and resisting arrest charges on Monday. Three of the six women were released on bail and immediately taken into ICE custody. Two men who arrived at court to post bail were also taken into ICE custody. Three of the women remain held, Norwood police say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks to the coordinated efforts of on-duty officers, specialized units, and mutual aid partners, all six suspects involved in the break-in were taken into custody, Norwood Police Chief Christopher Padden. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Jul. 28The three-year investigation into the killing of an Omak couple officially came to an end Monday, but the victim's family says questions remain about the suspected killer. The Okanogan Sheriff's Office announced Monday that skeletal remains found in Spokane were identified as 25-year-old Dylan J. Harrington, who had been identified as the suspect in the 2022 killing of David Covey, 80, and his wife, 66-year-old Geralyn Covey. Both were found on their property in Chesaw, Washington, which is near the Canadian border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The multiple year manhunt for Harrington is over," a sheriff's office news release states. "The Okanogan Sheriff's Office wishes to thank all of the agencies that were involved in this investigation. "Our greatest hope is that the Covey family can move forward with some sense of closure," the news release continued. But Debbie Springer, of Omak, said questions linger despite finding out last week that authorities had identified the remains as Harrington. Springer, 61, is the daughter of David Covey, and Geralyn Covey was her stepmother. "I would say that we are relieved that he has been found. It's not, of course, what we were expecting," Springer said. "Until we got the call, I really thought it was going to be 20 years before I heard anything." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said Okanogan County investigators notified the family last week about the break in the case. "We still have lots of questions," Springer said. "There's still a lot out there. We feel somebody else has been involved this whole time. How long had he been dead?" The killing The case began in the winter of 2022. David and Geralyn Covey both lived in Omak, but they had an RV under a roof on about 5 acres near Chesaw off of Nealy Road. The couple often visited the property, which also had some outbuildings, but not during winter months, Springer said. Then on Sunday, February 13, 2022, the couple made the trek in the snow to the property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They went up to check because they noticed they had activity on their PUD bill," Springer said. The area has limited cell phone service, but the first sign of trouble came later that day when someone reported finding David Covey's truck farther up the road. Springer, her brother Dave, and husband Steve Springer began looking for the couple. "Then we got a call about finding one of their dogs," she said. The Coveys had three Pomeranians. Finding only one would be very odd. "I tried calling and got no information. On Tuesday morning (Feb. 15, 2022), I felt there was something horribly wrong," Springer said. "That's when I called the sheriff's office to do a welfare check." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Springer and her husband then drove from Omak to the Chesaw property. They arrived to find fresh snow, which was hip-deep in places. The Coveys were not inside the RV. "My husband noticed some tracks just across the fence line. They were headed back down the hill. A deputy arrived, and my husband showed him the tracks," Springer said. The tracks led to an abandoned homestead. "My husband saw Dylan. He came out of the homestead and went underneath it to hide and wouldn't come out," Springer said. But the deputy chose not to pursue the man, who Springer now believes was Harrington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deputy "said he would put in a report about the information and the suspicious person who went and hid from them," Springer said. But the sheriff's office then informed the couple that they would be sending the Okanogan Sheriff's search and rescue team on Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022, to continue searching for the Coveys. That team worked all of that day without finding any sign of the couple. "I believe they were just getting ready to wrap up when one of the deputies walked behind the trailer and noticed some black marks. He lifted up a sheet of plywood and found their bodies," Springer said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That area had been bypassed dozens of times. "We walked around (the trailer) multiple times that day," she said. "Thank God we never lifted the plywood. We were just looking for tracks." In addition to locating the dead couple, investigators apparently had a second encounter with Harrington. "That's part of what we don't understand," Springer said. "One of our friends said they could hear a dog" coming from the abandoned homestead on the same day that the couple was found. The neighbor informed the deputies. "It took 30 minutes for them to arrive. In that time, (Harrington) escaped," Springer said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But inside the homestead, the deputies found the Coveys' two missing Pomeranians. Springer said on further inspection, they found one of the outbuildings at the Coveys' property had been burglarized. She believes that Harrington, who lived in the area, had been using electricity to stay warm in the outbuilding. Springer believes that her father and stepmother were killed when they surprised the squatter. "They were shot with two different calibers," Springer said. "I don't know if he shot them with his gun and went and grabbed another one of his guns." She noted that investigators found guns and ammunition in the abandoned homestead where deputies both saw Harrington and later found the Coveys' dogs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There was no reason to kill them," Springer said. "Had my parents been the ones who caught (Harrington), they wouldn't be mad. They'd say, 'Why don't you help cut some wood and we'll help you out.' " Finding Harrington After the discovery of the Coveys, investigators filed for an arrest warrant seeking to charge Harrington with first-degree murder and two counts of unauthorized removal or concealment of bodies. After he was seen near the property about the same time the Coveys were discovered, the Okanogan County Sheriff's Office then organized a multi-agency search the next weekend but didn't find Harrington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His trail went cold until April of this year when Spokane city officials conducted a mental-health wellness check on a man near downtown. The man apparently spoke of aliens and other issues, but he then volunteered to show them a dead body. They took the man up on his offer and found remains under the Hamilton Street interchange west of Liberty Park. Springer said she spoke to the coroner about the remains later identified as Harrington. "They said he didn't have any bullet wounds or knife marks," she said. "He did have some narcotics in his tissue sample, but they could not give a cause of death." Then on Thursday, Okanogan Sheriff's Chief Criminal Deputy Jodie Barcus visited the Springers and informed them about the identification of Harrington's remains. Efforts to reach Barcus on Monday were not immediately successful. But Debbie Springer said she wants to know more. "We are going to try to find out if they found any other DNA at the scene," she said. "I just don't know that (Harrington) could have carried this whole thing out by himself. How did he get to Spokane? Somebody had to have helped him." Arkansas police have released a photo and sketch of a person of interest sought in connection with a double homicide at Devil's Den State Park, where a married couple was found dead while hiking with their two young children over the weekend. Arkansas State Police released a composite sketch of a man seen in Devil's Den State Park on Saturday, the day of the killings. Police subsequently released a photo to accompany the sketch, showing the person of interest's back. Arkansas State Police - PHOTO: Arkansas State Police released this photo of a person of interest sought in connection with a double homicide at Devil's Den State Park. "Investigators have asked the public for help identifying the man so that they can question him related to a double homicide at the park," Arkansas State Police said in a press release on Monday. Arkansas State Police - PHOTO: Arkansas State Police released a sketch of a person of interest sought in connection with a double homicide at Devil's Den State Park. MORE: Suspect on the run after killing couple hiking with their 2 kids at Arkansas' Devil's Den State Park: Police Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clinton David Brink, 43, and his wife, Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, were "fatally attacked" while out hiking with their two daughters, police said. The children, ages 7 and 9, were not injured in the incident. The suspect in the double homicide remains at large. "ASP is actively following all leads and working around the clock to resolve the case and protect public safety," Arkansas State Police said in a press release on Tuesday. The suspect was described as a white man of medium build last seen wearing a long-sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up and dark pants, police said. He was also wearing a dark baseball cap, sunglasses and fingerless gloves and carrying a black backpack, police said. KHBS - PHOTO: Authorities respond to Devil's Den State Park, July 27, 2025. He was seen leaving the area in a black, four-door sedan, possibly a Mazda, with a license plate covered by tape, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect likely sustained an injury during the attack, police said. Police asked anyone who visited the park on Saturday to check their photos and videos for images or footage of the suspect. Residents in the area are also asked to check their security camera footage. Michael Woods/AP - PHOTO: The trail head to the Devil's Den trail at Devils Den State Park remains closed, July 28, 2025, in West Fork, Ark. All trails at Devil's Den State Park are closed until further notice. The FBI in Little Rock confirmed to ABC News on Tuesday that it is assisting Arkansas State Police with its investigation "by providing additional manpower and specialized resources." MORE: Authorities were searching for Walmart stabbing suspect prior to incident Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Brinks had recently moved to Prairie Grove from another state, police said. The bodies of the victims were taken to the Arkansas State Crime Lab, where autopsies are scheduled to be conducted to determine the exact causes of the deaths, police said. The children are safe and in the custody of relatives, according to police. "The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult time as they grieve and learn how to navigate this new reality," the family said in a statement on Monday. "They ask that if anyone has any information at all that will help the investigation, to please contact the proper authorities immediately. Clinton and Cristen died heroes, protecting their little girls and they deserve justice. They will forever live on in all of our hearts." This article contains descriptions of domestic violence and/or child abuse. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, contact the DCFS 24/7 hotline: 855-323-3237. For more information, visit dcfs.utah.gov. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) A Salt Lake City couple has been charged with child abuse after a pediatrician allegedly reported injuries and malnourishment during a doctors visit. Justus Robert Olsen, 26, and Cheyenne Mika Hokulani Olsen, 30, have both been charged with second-degree felony aggravated child abuse, intentionally or knowingly. Justus Olsen is also facing a charge of Class A misdemeanor child abuse, intentionally or knowingly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to documents, on June 2, 2025, a Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) detective received a child abuse and neglect report that outlined two visits to a pediatrician that were found concerning. The childs exact age is not identified. In October 2024, a pediatrician reported that a child patient was unable to maintain weight and made a failure to thrive report. The child did not see the pediatrician again until May 30, 2025. During that appointment, the doctor saw that the child had bruising on the face, thigh, and lower back, as well as bleeding between the toes. The pediatrician referred them to the emergency room and reported the injuries to the Utah Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS). St. George woman who crashed with three juveniles in vehicle was on fentanyl, charges say Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That same day, May 30, a DCFS case worker visited the Olsens residence regarding the injuries that the child sustained. Justus Olsen described the injuries as coming from the childs crib and said that the family had genetic disorders that caused them to bruise easily. He also allegedly told the case worker that the child was fed a lot, but could not gain weight. On May 31, the next day, the child was taken to Safe and Health Families, and their injuries were evaluated. The doctor located a fracture on the childs left humerus and ulna (upper and lower arm bones), bruising on their cheek, thigh, and lower back. The doctor stated these bruises are consistent with inflicted trauma. During the evaluation, the doctor also determined that the childs weight was most likely due to an absence of food or not receiving enough food. While at the Primary Childrens Hospital, the child began gaining weight. A family member of Justus Olsen told police that she was concerned about the childs weight and had worried about the child. She expressed concern that Justus and Cheyenne Olsen were too strict, and she had previously observed bruises on the child. The family member also stated that she was the only one who purchased formula and diapers for the child. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Justus Olsen was told to take the child to the emergency room on May 30, he did not take the child. The family member stated that she had offered to take the child instead due to her concern after the appointment with the pediatrician. Justus Olsen allegedly declined the offer, and later told police he didnt go because that family member was his ride and couldnt take them. READ NEXT: Nurse allegedly caused 85 y/o patient to fall and sustain injuries, she passed away days later A family friend told police that she had observed bruises on the child before, and that they had been becoming more frequent. She also said that while babysitting, the child took a bottle and two applesauce packets, consuming them all without issue. According to documents, the family friend showed police photos where the child had bruises. In speaking with Cheyenne Olsen, she allegedly told SLCPD detectives that Justus Olsen was the primary caregiver and a stay-at-home parent. Facebook Messenger conversations between the Olsens revealed concerning messages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the messages, Justus Olsen allegedly said that he was going to hit their other child for shoving food in [the childs] crib, and had locked the other child in their room. He called himself the warden for his disciplinary action. Also among the conversations on Facebook Messenger, Cheyenne Olsen expressed disappointment about Justus Olsens constant lying and neglect of [the childs] needs, according to documents. She called him lazy and neglectful for the past six months. While the child was receiving treatment in the hospital, Cheyenne Olsen allegedly sent a message to Justus Olsen, asking if he needed to pack and dip and flee the state. A warrant was issued for Justus Olsens arrest on July 18, and he was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on July 25, posting bond shortly after. Justus Olsen has an initial appearance scheduled for Aug. 11, and Cheyenne Olsen has an initial appearance on Aug. 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) By noon on Tuesday, eight bills vetoed by Governor Josh Stein had become law by way of supermajority override votes in the General Assembly. While eight bills have crossed the complete veto override finish line, there are few that remain to see a final vote. PREVIOUS | NC Republicans seek Democratic support to override Gov. Steins immigration bill vetoes Bills made law by veto override so far HB 193 Firearm law revisions This law allows guns to be carried on private school property. HB 805 Protect sexual exploitation of minors In his veto, Gov. Stein noted the initial version of the bill included something he strongly supports policy to protect people from being exploited on pornographic websites against their will. In subsequent editions of the bill, he said the General Assembly chose to engage in divisive, job killing culture wars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill was altered through amendments to include a definition of biological sex for the state, which is what Democrats took issue with. Stoking culture wars: Gov. Stein vetoes 4 bills, calling out GOP-led legislature HB 318 Illegal Alien Enforcement Act Requires law enforcement to verify the legal status of anyone detained and hand them over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement if they are undocumented. It also allows someone to be detained for up to 48 hours. HB 549 Clarifying powers of state auditor While Republicans claim the intent is to clarify powers, Democrats criticize the bill as a way to give that office unchecked authority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Josh Stein vetoes concealed gun, immigration-enforcement bills Others include: SB 266 (Power Bill Reduction Act), SB 416 (Personal Privacy Protection Act), SB 254 which brings certain changes to state charter schools and HB 404 which establishes limit rules with substantial financial costs. Members of the NC Senate take up several veto override votes on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. (Deana Harley / CBS 17) Senate overrides waiting on House SB 153 Border Protection Act This bill requires cooperation with ICE and audits state agencies to make sure funding is only going to citizens. Gov. Josh Stein vetoes charter school, state auditor, and electric utility bills SB 227 & SB 558 Eliminating DEI in higher education & public education The Republican sponsors of these DEI bills said they are about merit and evening the playing field. Democrats disagree. Gov. Stein said while issuing his veto, I stand ready to work with the legislature when it gets serious about protecting people and addressing North Carolinians pressing concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The governor also said our diversity as North Carolinians is our strength. SB 50 Freedom to Carry Act This would allow anyone over 18 to carry a gun without a concealed carry permit. Restrictions would still exist for people convicted of certain crimes, such as domestic violence. It is unclear whether votes on these remaining bills will be taken up today or tomorrow. Both chambers are in recess as of 1 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. Slovakia has accused Britain of a 10m plot to meddle in its 2023 election. Robert Fico, the countrys firebrand prime minister, alleged that the Foreign Office had paid social media influencers through an agency to promote the rival liberal Progressive Slovakia party. Nigel Baker, Britains ambassador to Bratislava, has been summoned to the countrys foreign minister on Wednesday to answer the accusations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesman for the Foreign Office branded the allegations entirely false. Mr Fico told a news conference on Tuesday: There was a targeted deliberate activity by a foreign power, which is our ally in Nato, in cooperation with some Slovak journalists and in cooperation with some Slovak political influencers, to influence the election in 2023. Mr Fico, widely seen as a populist leader, cited a report by Declassified UK, an investigative website, which claimed the UKs Foreign Office had a 10m deal with Zinc Network, a London-based media agency, that had been used to influence Slovakias last parliamentary election. This agency was tasked with finding influencers and political activists in Central and Eastern European countries and influencing events in those countries, the prime minister added. Robert Fico (L) and the chairman of the opposition party Progressive Slovakia, Michal Simecka - TOMAS BENEDIKOVIC The Slovakian marker.sk website reported that the UK Government is secretly funding hundreds of foreign influencers whose job is to create political propaganda on YouTube through the contract. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well demand an explanation of all the details of the case, Juraj Blanar, Slovakias foreign minister, said ahead of his meeting with Mr Baker. Mr Blanar said he would be forced to take further action if his government did not receive sufficient information from the British diplomat. It was not immediately clear what videos were being referred to, or what measures the Slovakians could take in response to the accusations. Marek Estok, Slovakias Europe minister, said he would raise the issue at the next meeting of the European Councils general affairs council. He said it would fit with plans to discuss hybrid threats and interference in election campaigns to the bloc in September. The Foreign Office said: Any suggestion that the UK was seeking to sway an election result, or encourage voting for or against a specific political party is entirely false. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This activity focused on encouraging young people to participate in their democracies and to vote in upcoming elections, regardless of their political affiliation or support. The Foreign Offices Open Information Partnership works across 24 countries, supporting investigative journalists, charities, think tanks, academics, NGOs, activists, and fact-checkers. Media consulting service Zinc Networks logo features alongside the Governments motif on the bottom of the Partnerships website. The media agency signed a three-year contract worth 9,450,000 in 2022 with the Foreign Office for delivery of media consulting service relating to the project. This project fits within wider 30 year UK Government objectives, to provide balanced, independent voices to more people in the regions, a redacted version of the contract states, according to Declassified UK. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It adds that the project should not interfere with the editorial independence of the civil society organisations [it] supports. There are no examples of its work in Slovakia published either by the FCDO or Zinc. One example of the firms work in Estonia claims it assisted 20 Russian-language influencers in the Baltic country to boost their online presences. Zinc Network did not respond to requests for comment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. GUILFORD, Maine A school district based in Piscataquis County is heading back to the drawing board after voters in six towns narrowly rejected a proposed budget for the second time last week. Clear divides were on display in Maine School Administrative District 4. Voters from Guilford and Sangerville, the bigger towns in the district, backed the proposal. But there was higher turnout from the smaller towns of Parkman, Abbot and Cambridge that tanked the budget. It was 234-207, a margin of 27 votes. The district is one of at least 16 in Maine that dont yet have a budget after June referendums. Its another example of how tax-weary voters in small towns are using low-turnout elections to rebel against local school boards. The Guilford-based district now has to decide how to alter the proposals and put them back out to voters by Sept. 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The MSAD 4 board initially put forward a $9.75 million budget in June. That was roundly defeated by a margin of 282-187. In response, the board whittled the budget down to $9.53 million, a 3 percent increase on the prior year. It made up the difference largely by axing certain vacant positions at the school. The proposed budget increase was driven largely by state mandates, wages and utilities, according to Anthony Willis, MSAD 4s finance director. Willis said the divide between towns and general frustration over high taxes caused disruption in a usually smooth budget process. Cambridge, a center of opposition, is the second-smallest town in the district. It sends fewer than 50 students to K-12 public schools. With 61 of its 308 registered voters showing up to vote on the budget, it saw nearly 20 percent turnout. Sangerville, home to the largest proportion of the districts student population, had only 88 people show up turnout of less than 9 percent. The numbers reflect tensions between the more populous areas and the rural towns that send few students to the school and have a higher proportion of residents on fixed incomes. Mike Dexter, a selectman from Guilford who also works for the school, suggested locals upset about taxes are driven to turn out. He doesnt know if there is much more to cut. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can dime-and-dollar any budget, Dexter added. You know, you can cut $100 here, and $1,000 there, but youre not going to make a significant . But the view is different in Cambridge, where Michael Watson, the head selectman, said the school budget does not match his towns interests. He noted that his select board recently accepted a petition to withdraw from MSAD 4 altogether. Cambridge residents could vote on whether to stay in the district as early as March. I dont want to insult anybody, but it appears that the school board is a little bit out of touch with reality, he said. They need to stop, they need to look at the economics of the whole district and decide what they can provide and what they cant afford to provide anymore. Wendy Lorigan, an art teacher at the districts elementary school who previously served on the school board, said she hopes turnout in her town, Sangerville, increases to pass the budget soon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have a very supportive community, so Im optimistic that it will pass this time, she said. If theres one thing people come out for, its for the kids. So I know as we inch closer to school, they will make sure it happens. Board members are expected to meet this week to iron out the details of the next budget proposal. The Superintendent and the Board are going to work very close together to find out what needs to be changed, Willis said. Daniel OConnor is a Report for America corps member who covers rural politics as part of the partnership between The Maine Monitor and the Bangor Daily News, with additional support from BDN and Monitor readers. Left-wing pundits and activists continue to insist that the ongoing protests in Epping are far-Right. I find this a curious claim. As has been well documented, even by the BBC, the protests in this Essex town were specifically prompted by the news that a 41-year-old asylum seeker staying at the local migrant hotel had been charged with sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. Hence the placards reading, Protect our kids. These are not, therefore, protests about race. Theyre protests against the sexual assault of children. And surely revulsion at the sexual assault of children is not an exclusively Right-wing stance. There must be at least some people in progressive circles who agree that sexually assaulting children is wrong, and who dont believe that, in the interests of preserving our vibrant 21st-century multicultural utopia, underage girls should stop moaning and take one for the team. None the less, many Left-wing pundits and activists seem to think the stuff about sexual violence is merely an excuse, a cynical far-Right ploy to justify hatred of foreigners. They will no doubt have been delighted, then, by a story in the Guardian at the weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two out of every five people arrested for the post-Southport riots last summer, it stated, had previously been reported to police for domestic abuse. These findings, the Guardian continued, come amid a growing debate over the legitimacy of protests outside asylum hotels. An intriguing sentence. What exactly are we supposed to infer from it? That the people protesting outside asylum hotels this summer are only pretending to care about the safety of women and girls, because lots of them are bound to be dangerous, violent misogynists themselves, like those rioters from last summer? Such an inference, I think, would constitute an outrageous smear against the Epping protesters, not least because so many of them as photos make clear are women. Purely for the sake of argument, though, lets say that its true. Lets say that the protests in Epping, and other towns across the country, are absolutely rife with white British woman-haters. If so, such a point is of absolutely no use to Left-wing defenders of our generous asylum system. Quite the opposite, in fact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After all, if Britain already produces lots of dangerous, violent, horrible men, why on earth would we wish to import even more? Logically, the Guardians findings should convince its readers that this country must do all it possibly can to minimise the numbers of such men. To that end, they should examine the statistics for certain crimes in England and Wales and, in particular, the conviction rates by nationality. When it comes to sexual crimes, for example, the highest conviction rate is of immigrants from Afghanistan (59 per 10,000 in 2021-23, compared with 6 per 10,000 for those who were British-born). And when it comes to violent crimes, the highest conviction rate is of immigrants from the Congo (187 per 10,000, compared with 16 per 10,000 for the British-born). So, if Left-wing pundits and activists really do deplore crimes of this nature, they should be demanding tighter border controls. They should be saying: Weve got quite enough nasty and abusive men in this country as it is. So we certainly dont need more of them. Especially not if theyre from cultures where men are statistically likely to be even nastier and more abusive than British ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In short: they shouldnt be smearing the Epping protesters. They should be joining them. Trans mania still grips Scotlands lanyard class Ever since Superman was created, in 1938, countless people have asked the following question. How come other characters dont realise that Clark Kent and Superman are one and the same? Are we seriously supposed to believe that Superman is able to conceal his true identity, simply by putting on a pair of glasses? I used to ask that question myself. Lately, though, Ive come to think that the scenario is actually quite plausible. Or at least it would be, if Superman were ever to visit a Scottish museum. According to the people who run Museums Galleries Scotland, the Supreme Courts controversial ruling that women are female will cause serious problems for museum staff. This is because every single person who wishes to enter the womens loos will now have to be checked and what proof will be acceptable, given Gender Recognition Certificates are not, nor are altered birth certificates? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of us might reply: Cant the staff just use their eyes? Isnt it really quite obvious which visitors are genuinely female, and which ones are actually male, regardless of how they might dress? Not to the staff of Scottish museums, it would seem. They would never have spotted that Clark Kent is Superman. In fact, if hed put on some lipstick, theyd have taken him for Lois Lane. Way of the World is a twice-weekly satirical look at the headlines aiming to mock the absurdities of the modern world. It is published at 6am every Tuesday and Saturday Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The Judiciary Police (PJ) arrested a Hong Kong man and woman at the airport Sunday, seizing one kilogram of suspected methamphetamine, also known as ice, with an estimated street value of MOP3 million. PJ spokesman Ho Wai Lok briefed reporters at 5:45 p.m. in the arrival hall of the airport shortly after the drugs were uncovered by officers. Ho confirmed to the media that 500 grams of methamphetamine were seized from each suspect, totaling one kilogram. Authorities revealed that the two suspects, identified as Wong, a 51-year-old chef, and Chan, a 63-year-old unemployed woman, were separately hired by a cross-border drug trafficking group to smuggle narcotics through Macau. Wong and Chan each arrived separately in Macau at approximately 10:15 a.m. Sunday via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (HZMB). They then proceeded to independently make their way to Macau International Airport, where police intercepted them just before noon, authorities explained. According to media reports, the duo admitted to being hired for the smuggling operation and expected a combined reward of HKD 55,000 if successful in transporting the drugs to their final destination, though they refused to disclose the source of the drugs. The PJ is continuing investigations into the origin of the drugs, and the duo will be transferred to the Public Prosecutions Office to face drug trafficking charges. Like this: Like Loading... OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Several neighbors living in a northwest Oklahoma City neighborhood say theyre fed up by the state a home on their block has been in, which has gotten Animal Welfare involved. People living next to the home, in a neighborhood just east of Hefner Road and Council Road, say theyve been dealing with issues there for about a year. News 4 spoke with next-door Denise Hay, who was the only neighbor willing to speak on-camera about the complaints. No knock list allows Yukon residents to ban solicitors Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was getting in my house, in my garage, said Hay. Of course, my car was parked in the garage, so I could even smell it in my car. The bulk of the visible issues with the property, News 4 employees observed, are tied to the front porch area. Trash is littered across a path leading up the porch, including open cans of discarded animal food, standing water, fly traps, and other junk. The odor coming from the nearby area was so distinct that News 4 employees had to take multiple breaks. Hay said she rarely stays at her own home because of the issues and has gotten the City of Oklahoma City involved. I called them and lodged a complaint, and they came out and they smelled it and they saw it, said Hay. It just hits you. City employees told News 4 Friday that its staff is aware, with several case reports provided, the earliest dating back to June 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six cases provided had been closed, and three cases were still open. One open case, dated June 25, is only tied to high grass. The other two open cases are at the center of Hays and neighbors complaints. Another open June 25 case talks about a putrid odor coming from the front door. The last open case, dated July 1, says Oklahoma City Animal Welfare and Oklahoma City Police got a warrant to search the property, calling it beyond uninhabitable. They had to use hazmat suits to get in the house, said Hay. The case notes add that during the July 1 response, over 35 cats were removed from the home, along with six dead cats in various stages of decomposition. The case says that the floors and walls inside the home were covered in feces and that you can smell the house from the street. I have roaches and I have had bugs in my yard, and Ive had some mice that come over, said Hay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oklahoma City Police declined to comment, directing inquiries to Oklahoma City Animal Welfare. A spokesperson could only confirm there was an open investigation in the area. No timeline was shared on when the situation could possibly be resolved. The only thing that Ive seen is that the front yard got mowed, and thats all that Ive seen, said Hay. I would like the odor to be gone. I want the house cleaned up. On July 25, after searching property records, News 4 made contact with the owner of the property. The owner denied having knowledge of the current condition of the property, stating that they hadnt lived there in years and were in the process of getting it transferred over to a relative. News 4 also spoke with that relative Friday. They said they were working with the city and had hired a cleaning company to clean up the mess over the same weekend. News 4 did receive an email from the relative Monday with a redacted cleaning agreement that noted an approval to move forward, as well as screenshots of call logs from phone calls with city and county departments. No additional documents were provided that would corroborate an agreement with city or county leaders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News 4 did stop by the property again Monday to see if anything had changed. The smell wasnt as bad, and some trash was gone, but a new code enforcement notice with a city inspectors business card was taped to the door. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. SMITH COUNTY, Texas (KETK) A Smith County father was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Monday after he was arrested for abusing a three-month-old baby in January. According to the Smith County Sheriffs Office, around 6 p.m. on Jan. 8, a deputy responded to a Tyler hospital, where they were informed by hospital personnel that a three-month-old baby had received significant injuries that looked like child abuse. 10-year-old DeKalb ISD student dies from injuries sustained in car accident Mugshot of Zachray McGinn, courtesy of Smith County Jail While the infant was undergoing CT scans and X-rays, the attending nurse informed the deputy that the baby was lethargic, weak and had bruises on their face and neck. An investigator then spoke with the babys mother, who told officials that her baby had just returned home after spending several days with his father, Zachray McGinn, at a home located near Whitehouse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to officials, the mother explained that she had been in contact with McGinn and his mother, Brittany Mackey, on Facebook Messenger while her child was away. The mother further explained that on Jan. 8, both McGinn and Mackey dropped off the infant at her residence, the sheriffs office said. It was at this time that the mother observed the lethargic manner of her child and the bruising to his face. Shortly thereafter, the mother took the infant to the emergency room in Tyler. Man arrested after police standoff at Lufkin apartment The investigator spoke with the attending ER physician, who explained that the infant had a broken right clavicle, and the babys right arm had to be splinted to his chest to heal. McGinn was sentenced to 10 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to injury to a child. Mackey was arrested for injury to a child in January, but she has yet to be indicted. You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. The finance minister said he was still in the government since he had "reason to believe that good things are about to happen" in the Gaza Strip. The government is considering taking steps in the war in Gaza that are supported by its far-right wing, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said in an interview during a conference in Yad Binyamin on Tuesday marking 20 years since Israels disengagement from the territory. Smotrichs remarks at the conference, called the Katif Conference for National Responsibility and hosted by the Gush Katif Heritage Center, were his first public comments since Prime Minister Benjmain Netanyahus decision over the weekend to enact daily localized humanitarian ceasefires in the Strip. Potential upcoming elections The decision, which was taken without Smotrichs knowledge, led to a crisis between him and Netanyahu. Smotrichs Religious Zionist Party Knesset faction leader, MK Ohad Tal, said to the Post on Monday that without a clear, organized work plan backed militarily and diplomatically for victory in the coming days, the party will have no choice and will have to go to an election." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the on-stage interview, with Shirit Avitan-Cohen (Yisrael Hayom), Smotrich said, If, despite everything, Im still in the government, its probably because I have good reason to believe that good things are about to happen in Gaza. An Israeli tank enters Israel from Gaza, July 28, 2025 (credit: REUTERS/AMIR COHEN) Smotrich did not explain what good things he was referring to, but according to a series of reports on a security consultation held on Monday night, Israel was considering an expansion of military operations in Gaza. During the consultation, Netanyahu also discussed partial annexation of the Gaza Strip as a potential course of action if hostage deal talks fail, an Israeli source confirmed to the Post. Smotrich, who throughout the war has been a vocal critic of the governments humanitarian aid policies and who threatened in April to resign the government if even a grain of aid reached Hamas, said in the interview, Airdropping aid from planes doesnt interest me because it doesnt reach Hamas. The real foolishness is the trucks entering areas under Hamas controlwhere they can seize them, sell the contents, and preserve the populations dependency, Smotrich said in the interview. This is extremely harmful, and Ive had countless assurances it would stop. I stood before the public and pledged that this would no longer happen. I even said I couldnt be part of a government that continues doing this, and I meant every word. I know Ive become a target of mockery and ridicule over the last 48 hours in the media and online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If, despite everything, Im still in the government, its probably because I have good reason to believe that good things are about to happenthings worth enduring the humiliation, the mockery, and the ridicule. And in the end, time will tell whether I was right or not." Regarding the resettlement of Israeli Jews in Gaza Smotrich said, For twenty years we spoke of this as a wishful aspirationnow its also a realistic work plan. We didnt pay these prices just to transfer Gaza from one Arab to another. Gaza is an inseparable part of the Land of Israel. I dont want to return to Gush Katifits too small. It needs to be much bigger. Today, Gaza enables us to think on a broader scale. West Bank policy The finance minister also commented on the governments policy in the West Bank. We are carrying out a revolution in Judea and Samaria. We are applying de facto sovereigntythrough construction, regulation, declarations, changing the DNA of the entire system, paving roadsand, with Gods help, in this [governments] term, we will also apply formal sovereignty in Judea and Samaria, Smotrich said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smotrich convened his party for a closed-door meeting on Tuesday evening to discuss the developments in Gaza and the partys position. The party did not make any statements by press time. The recently resigned MK Gadi Eisenkot wrote on Facebook in response to Smotrichs comments, Bezalel Smotrich speaks the truth to anyone willing to listen. The October 7 cabinet and the minority government continue to act against the aims of the war, against the Israeli and Jewish ethos. By the measure of results, those responsible for the October 7 failure have also led to the total collapse in Gaza. Along with his extremist partners, he prefers to keep abandoning the hostagesall just to survive politically. It is time for decisions and leadership. Democrats chairman Yair Golan wrote on X, Smotrich dodged combat service, his sons are dodging service, and hes promoting a draft-dodging lawbut that doesnt stop him from sending soldiers to their deaths for visions of settlements in Gaza. He pushes for endless war, without bringing back the hostages, at the cost of our childrens blood, the erosion of the IDF, and the unravelling of Israeli society. For you this is war; for him, its a time of miracles. Realizing the vision of Smotrich and his partners wont just sacrifice an entire generationit will destroy the Zionist vision and bring ruin to the State of Israel, Golan wrote. Things are tight for Amanda Jones these days, especially when it comes to the margins on her grocery budget. The retired accountant and grandmother lives on a fixed Social Security income. She says when it comes to food assistance, SNAP benefits are limited. To fill her fridge, the 62-year-old turns to Hancock Helping Hands, a local food pantry. "I get the elderly food stamps of $23 a month, so all the help that's out there for me without this place is $23 a month," Jones said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even with her own struggles, Jones is focused on others, loading up the car with boxes from Helping Hands and delivering them to 30 families across Hancock County one of the poorest in Georgia. "It seemed a shame to just come for myself if other people needed it, so I just started adding more," Jones said. Hancock County, Georgia, needs more people like Jones, because it has the highest rate of child food insecurity in the U.S., according to Feeding America. But about an hour away from Hancock County, help is on the way from Golden Harvest, the region's food bank. "No child should go to bed hungry," said Abby Muehlfeld, Golden Harvest's vice president of marketing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Golden Harvest says one out of every four children in its region is considered food insecure. In Hancock County, that number doubles. It's why volunteers can pack up to 250 boxes that can feed 1,000 people in a single session. This summer, people are showing up. Volunteers, many of them teenagers, are stuffing boxes of food on an assembly line. "You always feel great when you go home, like you're doing something for the community, like you're really helping people out," said Noah Knight, a high school volunteer. It's a well-oiled machine, but it's under pressure, Muehlfeld said. Cuts to SNAP benefits may lead to a surge in demand at food banks like Golden Harvest. A CBS News analysis projects the latest budget cuts billions from SNAP over the next decade. Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture also cut two federal programs that provided about $1 billion in funding to schools and food banks to buy food directly from local farms, ranchers and producers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're going to rely on donations, on the community, on grants, and trying to help fill that gap, because at the end of the day, we're going to make sure that we do what we need to do," Muehlfeld said. As for Jones, her mission is simple and sweet. "It's nothing big. It's milk, it's eggs, it's bread. If we're lucky, it's cupcakes," Jones said. "The Wizard of Oz" as you've never seen it before John Oliver: The 60 Minutes Interview Finding the plane used for Argentina's dictatorship-era "death flights" | 60 Minutes The Brief The new federal "Big Beautiful Bill" cuts $200 billion from SNAP, putting over 130,000 Illinois residents at risk of losing food assistance. Dion Dawson, founder of Dions Chicago Dream, is scaling up operations to deliver 200,000+ pounds of fresh produce monthly to 180 zip codes. Amid growing need, Dawson plans to open a 20,000-square-foot Dreamville campus in Englewood to expand food access and empower communities. CHICAGO - Now that the "Big Beautiful Bill" has been signed into law, millions are bracing for the biggest cut to food assistance in years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new federal budget takes away $200 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In Illinois, that means hundreds of thousands may have to turn to nonprofits. In a Fox 32 special report, one group on the South Side says moments like these are exactly why they exist. Local perspective "It's always ways we could better taking care of our people," said Dion Dawson. And two appliances show how far choosing to care can go. A freestanding fridge sits outside in Englewood, stocked with fruits, veggies and essentials. It was open day and night through the COVID lockdown and served hundreds a week. Now it sits just steps away from a walk-in that feeds thousands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're now up to 51 employees. We're providing about 200,000 pounds of fresh produce that we purchase, pack, and deliver per month," Dawson said. Dawson grew up without steady access to food. His personal experience drove him to act. In 2020, he started with one fridge and a simple idea, fresh food for anyone who needs it. Today, his team sends out trucks from a warehouse to 180 zip codes. "Our radius is about 50 miles. Yeah, we have drivers that will be out in Madison. We'll have some that be super far west suburbs," Dawson said. Big picture view And those same neighborhoods may soon see even more need. The "Big Beautiful Bill" slashes SNAP funding by $186 billion over the next 10 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dion says new work rules will make it harder for older adults, parents of teens, veterans, foster youth and people without stable housing to keep their benefits. In Illinois, more than 130,000 people could lose SNAP altogether. "We're not balking at what's happening right now. If anything, we're more emboldened, and we're planting our feet," Dawson said. What they're saying That conviction showed up on the Dions Chicago Dream Instagram page, where photos warn that by 2028, states will cover more of SNAP costs, with Illinois paying extra if it makes too many payment mistakes. SNAP-Ed, the program that teaches nutrition and healthy eating, will be cut entirely. Dawson says the Instagram post is a warning, but also a call to push forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When I see people not understanding just how dire it is, I think about the education. I think about how we speak. I think about, you know, how expletive we are in our language, and if every day we're just talking about you know, the boy cry wolf, if everything is a fire every day, that people become desensitized," Dawson said. He wants action that speaks louder than fear - a promise he plans to deliver by opening a new Dreamville campus in Englewood before the year ends. "It's going to a 20,000-square-foot facility that's going actually have increased capabilities for our logistics and operations. We'll able to create production by a million pounds per month," Dawson said. Why you should care That kind of scale only matters if the mission stays personal. Big names have praised the work, but Dawson says it still comes down to one promise --- to care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Hope is important, and we want to make that they understand that not only are we nervous, but we're nervously optimistic," Dawson said. "You're not a bystander in this society and in this democracy. So OK, you feel like that, how can you help? How can you put yourself in a position to be helped? Because we want to make sure that they're seen. But also, we empower them to help somebody else," Dawson said. What you can do Anyone who needs help or wants to help can go to dionschicagodream.com. There, you can sign up for deliveries and you can give directly to support jobs and buy fresh food. The Source This story was reported and written by Fox 32's Terrence Lee, who interviewed Dion Dawson, the founder of Dions Chicago Dream, for firsthand insights and quotes. The comparisons between Omar Fateh and Zohran Mamdani are easy to draw. Mamdani, the 33-year-old Ugandan-born state assemblyman from New York City, stunned the nation's political world a month ago by coming from behind to convincingly win the Democratic Party mayoral nomination in the nation's most populous city. And with his victory over former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and nine other candidates, Mamdani took a big step toward becoming New York City's first Muslim and first millennial mayor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fateh, like Mamdani, is a democratic socialist and a Muslim. And at age 35, he's also a member of Generation Y. Democratic Socialist Dubbed The Midwest Mamdani Scores Major Endorsement In Bid For Minneapolis Mayor Democratic socialist mayoral candidate Omar Fateh is seen in Minneapolis, Minnesota on July 19, 2025. And similar to Mamdani, he topped an establishment Democrat to earn a crucial endorsement as he bids for Minneapolis mayor. Read On The Fox News App "From NYC to Minneapolis change is coming!" the Twin Cities chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America touted a week and a half ago after Fateh landed the endorsement of the Minneapolis chapter of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, which is the name of the Democratic Party in Minnesota. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Potus Punditry: Trump Weighs In On Mamdani-cuomo Nyc Mayoral Faceoff Fateh landed the endorsement over incumbent Mayor Jacob Frey, who is running for a third term. But Frey, who has repeatedly faced off during his tenure with a left-leaning city council in the heavily blue city, remains on the ballot, and will face off with Fateh in November's election. And similar to New York City, Minneapolis will use ranked choice voting to determine its next mayor. "This endorsement is a message that Minneapolis residents are done with broken promises, vetoes, and politics as usual. Its a mandate to build a city that works for all of us," Fateh said, in a jab at Frey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Frey highlighted that "this election should be decided by our entire city, not by a handful of delegates. I look forward to a full debate with Sen. Fateh about our records and visions for our Minneapolis's future. Onward to November!" Mayor Jacob Frey of Minneapolis, Minnesota, a Democrat, is facing off against democratic socialist Omar Fateh in the city's 2025 mayoral election. Fateh, similar to Mamdani, is offering voters what can be characterized as a far-left agenda. In New York City, Mamdani is pushing proposals to eliminate fares to ride New York City's vast bus system, making CUNY (City University of New York) "tuition-free," freezing rents on municipal housing, offering "free childcare" for children up to age 5 and setting up government-run grocery stores. Rnc Chair Argues Mamdani Face Of The New Democratic Party Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fateh, the son of immigrant parents from Somalia who five years ago became the first Somali-American elected to the Minnesota Senate, pledges if elected mayor to raise the city's minimum wage, increase the supply of affordable housing, and combat what he calls police violence. Similar to Mamdani, Fateh calls for replacing some of the police department's duties with community-led alternatives. He also wants to issue legal IDs to undocumented immigrants. Larry Jacobs, a public affairs professor at the University of Minnesota, pointed to the numerous parallels between Mamdani and Fateh. Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani is the frontrunner in New York City's 2025 mayoral election after winning the Democratic Party nomination in June's primary. But he noted that "the big difference is in Minneapolis you have a two-term mayor whos probably still the favorite to win." Jacobs highlighted that the Democratic Party is going through "post election blues." He pointed to a "genuine division on the direction of the party and that division in part is between a younger socialist element and a more moderate version of the party that has relations with business and pulls back on change thats disruptive." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans have been relentless in taking aim at Mamdani and his far-left proposals. They are repeatedly trying to make him the face of the Democratic Party while also attempting to anchor him to vulnerable Democrats up for re-election in next year's midterms. While not grabbing the kind of media frenzy that surrounds Mamdani, Republicans and conservatives have started targeting Fateh. Among them is Charlie Kirk the conservative host and MAGA-world rockstar who leads the influential Turning Point USA political youth organization. Kirk recently took aim at Fateh over his Muslim identity. Original article source: Socialist candidate for mayor makes waves in the City of Lakes It has happened before: an upset victory by a Democratic Socialist in an important primary election after an extraordinary grassroots campaign. In the summer of 1934, Upton Sinclair earned the kind of headlines that greeted Zohran Mamdanis primary victory on June 24, 2025, in the New York City mayoral election. Mamdanis win surprised nearly everyone. Not just because he beat the heavily favored former governor Andrew Cuomo, but because he did so by a large margin. Because he did so with a unique coalition, and because his Muslim identity and membership in the Democratic Socialists of America should have, in conventional political thinking, made victory impossible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This sounds familiar, at least to historians like me. Upton Sinclair, the famous author and a socialist for most of his life, ran for governor in California in 1934 and won the Democratic primary election with a radical plan that he called End Poverty in California, or EPIC. The news traveled the globe and set off intense speculation about the future of California, where Sinclair was then expected to win the general election. His primary victory also generated theories about the future of the Democratic Party, where this turn toward radicalism might complicate the policies of the Democratic administration of Franklin D. Roosevelt. What happened next may concern Mamdani supporters. Business and media elites mounted a campaign of fear that put Sinclair on the defensive. Meanwhile, conservative Democrats defected, and a third candidate split progressive votes. In the November election, Sinclair lost decisively to incumbent Gov. Frank Merriam, who would have stood less chance against a conventional Democrat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a historian of American radicalism, I have written extensively about Sinclairs EPIC movement, and I direct an online project that includes detailed accounts of the campaign and copies of campaign materials. Uptons 1934 campaign initiated the on-again, off-again influence of radicals in the Democratic Party and illustrates some of the potential dynamics of that relationship, which, almost 100 years later, may be relevant to Mamdani in the coming months. Upton Sinclair is seen in September 1934 in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., following a conference with President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Bettmann/Contributor/Getty Images California, 1934 Sinclair launched his gubernatorial campaign in late 1933, hoping to make a difference but not expecting to win. California remained mired in the Great Depression. The unemployment rate had been estimated at 29% when Roosevelt took office in March and had improved only slightly since then. Sinclairs Socialist Party had failed badly in the 1932 presidential election as Democrat Roosevelt swept to victory. Those poor results included California, where the Democratic Party had been an afterthought for more than three decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sinclair decided that it was time to see what could be accomplished by radicals working within that party. Reregistering as a Democrat, he dashed off a 64-page pamphlet with the futuristic title I, Governor of California and How I Ended Poverty. It detailed his plan to solve Californias massive unemployment crisis by having the state take over idle farms and factories and turn them into cooperatives dedicated to production for use instead of production for profit. Sinclair speaks to a group in his campaign headquarters in Los Angeles, Calif., in September 1934. Bettmann/ Contributor/Getty Images Sinclair soon found himself presiding over an explosively popular campaign, as thousands of volunteers across the state set up EPIC clubs numbering more than 800 by election time and sold the weekly EPIC News to raise campaign funds. Mainstream Democrats waited too long to worry about Sinclair and then failed to unite behind an alternative candidate. But it would not have mattered. Sinclair celebrated a massive primary victory, gaining more votes than all of his opponents combined. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newspapers around the world told the story. What is the matter with California? The Boston Globe asked, according to author Greg Mitchell. That is the farthest shift to the left ever made by voters of a major party in this country. Building fear Primaries are one thing. But in 1934, the November general election turned in a different direction. Terrified by Sinclairs plan, business leaders mobilized to defeat EPIC, forming the kind of cross-party coalition that is rare in America except when radicals pose an electoral threat. Sinclair described the effort in a book he wrote shortly after the November election: I, Candidate for Governor: And How I Got Licked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nearly every major newspaper in the state, including the five Democratic-leaning Hearst papers, joined the effort to stop Sinclair. Meanwhile, a high-priced advertising agency set up bipartisan groups with names like California League Against Sinclairism and Democrats for Merriam, trumpeting the names of prominent Democrats who refused to support Sinclair. Few people of any party were enthusiastic about Merriam, who had recently angered many Californians by sending the National Guard to break a Longshore strike in San Francisco, only to trigger a general strike that shut down the city. A billboard supports Republican Frank Merriam and opposes Democrat Upton Sinclair for governor of California in January 1934. Bettmann /Contributor/Getty Images The campaign against Sinclair attacked him with billboards, radio and newsreel programming, and relentless newspaper stories about his radical past and supposedly dangerous plans for California. EPIC faced another challenge, candidate Raymond Haight, running on the Progressive Party label. Haight threatened to divide left-leaning voters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sinclair tried to defend himself, energetically denouncing what he called the Lie Factory and offering revised, more moderate versions of some elements of the EPIC plan. But the Red Scare campaign worked. Merriam easily outdistanced Sinclair, winning by a plurality in the three-way race. New York, 2025 Will a Democratic Socialist running for mayor in New York face anything similar in the months ahead? A movement to stop Mamdani is coming together, and some of what they are saying resonates with the 1934 campaign to stop Sinclair. The Guardian newspaper has quoted loquacious billionaire hedge funder Bill Ackman, who said he and others in the finance industry are ready to commit hundreds of millions of dollars into an opposing campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1934, newspapers publicized threats by major companies, most famously Hollywood studios, to leave California in the event of a Sinclair victory. The Wall Street Journal, Fortune magazine and other media outlets have recently warned of similar threats. And there may be something similar about the political dynamics. Sinclairs opponents could offer only a weak alternative candidate. Merriam had few friends and many critics. In 2025, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who abandoned the primary when he was running as a Democrat and is now running as an independent, is arguably weaker still, having been rescued by President Donald Trump from a corruption indictment that might have sent him to prison. If he is the best hope to stop Mamdani, the campaign strategy will likely parallel 1934. All attack ads little effort to promote Adams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But there is an important difference in the way the New York contest is setting up. Andrew Cuomo remains on the ballot as an independent, and his name could draw votes that might otherwise go to Adams. Curtis Sliwa, the Republican candidate, will also be on the ballot. Whereas in 1934 two candidates divided progressive votes, in 2025 three candidates are going to divide the stop-Mamdani votes. Religion also looms large in the campaign ahead. The New York City metro areas U.S. Muslim population is said to be at least 600,000, compared to an estimated 1.6 million Jewish residents. Adams has announced that the threat of antisemitism will be the major theme of his campaign. The stop-Sinclair campaign also relied on religion, focusing on his professed atheism and pulling quotations from books he had written denouncing organized religion. However, a statistical analysis of voting demographics suggests that this effort proved unimportant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: James N. Gregory, University of Washington Read more: James N. Gregory does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. In South Carolina, approximately 50 families living in a mobile home park have no water after the landlord failed to pay a six-figure water bill. The mayor of the town of Andrews told ABC News 4 that the owner of Black River Mobile Home Park, Tim Woodbridge, has failed to pay $155,268.81 in water bills over the last 19 months. Some residents of the mobile home park say theyve been paying their landlord for water bills, and that those payments have skyrocketed. According to the news report, the landlord had been texting amounts to residents, and did not provide any official water bills. One resident said the most he had paid the landlord for a water bill was $840, and other residents said they had paid similar high prices, with no discernible reason for the increase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mobile home park's residents, many of whom are low-income individuals and people with disabilities, have been significantly affected by the escalating water bills. These financial burdens have created substantial hardship for this vulnerable community. Don't miss Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 6 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) You dont have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 heres how Town says it has no choice but to cut off water The mayor says the town had a meeting with Woodbridge in April, after Black River residents alerted the town that they hadnt had water for up to eight weeks, after a sewage line broke. The town says it cannot pay the outstanding water bill and has no choice but to cut off water for the residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to another local news report, from Live 5 WCSC, the town is encouraging residents to file a breach of trust report with the Williamsburg County Sheriffs Office. Residents may also be able to file claims under the South Carolina Residential Landlord Tenant Act. The Act states that landlords must maintain premises, make running water available and follow building and housing codes that affect health and safety. It also says that if a landlord fails to provide essential services, tenants may be able to recover damages and attorneys fees. Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan works every single time to kill debt, get rich in America and that anyone can do it What can tenants do to fight back? If your landlord has failed to maintain your unit or provide essential services, such as sanitary plumbing, electricity, gas, running water and heat, there are actions you can take to protect yourself and your home. In most jurisdictions, residential leases include an implied warranty of habitability meaning landlords must comply with local housing codes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Keeping records is the best way to protect yourself if you are dealing with an issue with your landlord. Inform your landlord in writing of any issues as soon as they arise, and keep copies of any notices or letters you send or receive. Document any phone calls or in-person discussions, including dates, times and matters discussed. If you are documenting phone calls, be sure its legal to record them in your state. If you dont pay your utilities directly, and your landlord collects payments from you, be sure that you request copies of the utility bills. Also, be sure to ask your landlord to provide receipts upon payment. If, like the residents of Black River Mobile Home Park, you have reason to believe your landlord is not paying utility bills that you have submitted payment for, contact local law enforcement, and also seek help from local legal aid clinics or tenants rights groups. What to read next Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Gov. Larry Rhoden plans to tour the worst of the damage in southern Lincoln County after severe weather hit the area on July 28. Josie Harms, press secretary for the governor's office, confirmed to the Argus Leader that Rhoden will make a stop at the town of Hudson between 3:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. July 29 to get a first-hand look at storm damage. Harms stated in a text message that a specific meeting point has yet to be determined. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It will depend on which areas are the most affected," Harms stated. Hudson, which has a population of about 405 people, per census data, received "significant" damage from the storm enough to initially block the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office (LCSO) from accessing the town, according to a July 29 social media post made by the office. LCSO said some of the damage may have been caused by a tornado. The agency has advised the public to avoid the town to view the damage. Residents travel around town to assess the damage and help clean up the tree branches on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, along Sixth Street in Hudson, South Dakota. Harms stated "extremely powerful straight-line winds" damaged one Hudson home "to the point of being uninhabitable" and downed power lines and tree branches in throughout the county. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the damage to structures was the collapse of a 200-foot cell phone tower near the intersection of 472nd Avenue and 291st Street that broadcasts signals for Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. LCSO said representatives were working on a temporary fix to return signal to the area. A regional coordinator from the state's Office of Emergency Management was on-site in Hudson, according to previous Argus Leader reporting. Harms said the state was aware of one home in Gregory that was destroyed by a tornado on July 28, as well as another home in Henry that was also destroyed by a tornado on July 27. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden plans storm damage tour in Hudson SEOUL (Reuters) -South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and his Japanese counterpart Takeshi Iwaya shared concerns over North Korea's growing military ties with Russia among others, and agreed to work together with the United States, Japan's foreign ministry said on Tuesday. Cho held his first meeting in Tokyo with Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya on Tuesday since taking up his post this month. He is next due to travel to the U.S. to support trade negotiations. "They reaffirmed that they would continue to work closely together between Japan and the ROK, as well as among Japan, the ROK and the U.S." the Japanese foreign ministry said in a statement, referring to South Korea by its official name, the Republic of Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Korea is now fighting alongside Russia in the war against Ukraine. Thousands of North Korean troops were deployed to Russia's Kursk region, while Pyongyang has also supplied Russia with munitions. The Japanese ministry added that the two ministers also expressed concerns over North Korea's "cryptocurrency thefts" that fund its nuclear and missile programs. Cho and Iwaya had agreed to jointly respond to challenges, according to South Korea's foreign ministry. Japan, a U.S. major ally, already struck a trade deal with U.S. President Donald Trump that lowers tariffs on auto imports. But South Korea has yet to reach a deal on U.S. tariffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cho will also have his first meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on July 31, as Seoul makes a final push to secure a trade deal to limit the impact of U.S. tariffs due to come into effect on August 1. "The tariff negotiations are nearing an end. I will provide much support for this as well," Cho told reporters in Seoul ahead of his departure to Japan. "But more importantly, we will discuss how to cooperate between South Korea, the U.S. and Japan as well as strengthen the U.S. alliance in a comprehensive way." (Reporting by Jack Kim, Joyce Lee and Ju-min Park;Editing by Ed Davies and Peter Graff) The findings of a recent survey indicate that more than 80% of Macau residents in the Guangdong-Macau In-depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin are pleased with the entrepreneurial and employment opportunities, as well as the overall living environment. As of April this year, the number of Macau residents employed and living in the cooperation zone had reached 27,629, reflecting a year-on-year increase of nearly 27% and a more than fivefold increase from the end of 2020, comprising over 20% of the zones total population. Among them, 5,592 are employed, marking a nearly 12% year-on-year increase, while 23,106 residents live in the area, representing a 32% rise. The recently published survey report, collaboratively released by the Macau Womens General Association and the Hengqin Institute of Innovation and Development, utilized online and offline questionnaires, along with resident visits and seminars, to gain in-depth insights into the living and employment conditions of Macau residents in the cooperation zone, based on a sample size of 500 respondents. The findings noted a stronger overall sense of well-being among Macau residents living in the cooperation zone, with over 80% expressing satisfaction with their living environment. Notably, beautiful environment emerged as the primary factor influencing their choice of residence, accounting for 89% of responses. This underscores the significant role the living environment plays in Macau residents housing decisions and reflects the successful practices and appeal of the cooperation zone in promoting ecological and social civilization development, the report emphasized. The report identified three key areas of focus: targeted social security, seamless integration of daily life and transportation, and the alignment of rules and regulations related to residents livelihoods. Notably, over 70% of respondents indicated that vehicle policies, such as allowing Macau single-plate vehicles to enter the Hengqin area, have increased their willingness to live in the cooperation zone. In response to current conditions, specific policy recommendations were proposed, including enhancing public service facilities and promoting the integration of livelihood service mechanisms to further improve the zones livability. Additionally, over 80% of Macau residents surveyed expressed positive views on the entrepreneurial and employment environment in the cooperation zone. The findings revealed that the number of cross-border professionals practicing in the zone has reached 1,599, with the number of registered Macau medical professionals increasing by approximately twelvefold year-on-year. An increasing number of Macau talents are participating in the development of the cooperation zone, driving the transition from living in Hengqin to building Hengqin. The findings also highlighted that a good living environment, promising development prospects, abundant entrepreneurial and employment opportunities, substantial policy support, and an open and inclusive atmosphere are the most important factors attracting local residents to the cooperation zone for entrepreneurship and employment. Meanwhile, the findings noted that Macau residents continue to face challenges in accessing government services in the cooperation zone that are on par with those available in Macau, indicating there is significant room for improvement in this area. Like this: Like Loading... Jul. 29ROCHESTER Southbound Highway 52 access to eastbound Interstate 90 southeast of Rochester will be closed and detoured on July 31 as construction crews pour the eastbound I-90 concrete bridge deck, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Work was originally scheduled for July 30 but is being postponed for one day because of potential rainy weather. On Thursday, work is expected to keep southbound Highway 52 closed at the bridge from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. with the eastbound I-90 ramp closed and detoured. If work is postponed by weather, crews will attempt the work on the following day. Remaining open are: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Northbound Highway 52 to allow westbound I-90 motorists to exit north on Highway 52 toward Rochester. * I-90 remains open in both directions. * Southbound Highway 52 motorists can use the westbound I-90 on-ramp. The next exits west are Exits 209A and 209B at Stewartville. There are no public turnarounds between Highway 52 and Highway 63. Southbound Highway 52 motorists will be detoured in Rochester to Highway 63 south to I-90 east at Stewartville. Traffic with destinations further south on Highway 52 will exit eastbound I-90 at Exit 224 (Eyota exit), travel south on Olmsted County Road 7 to Highway 52 north of Chatfield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similar, short duration detours are planned when crews remove equipment and paint the bridge. Detours will be announced in advance. Other detours of ramps and lane closures remain in effect. To learn more about this project, go to MnDOT's website . DALLAS (NewsNation) After more than 50 years, Southwest Airlines is phasing out its iconic open-seating policy and bags fly free perk. Starting Tuesday, the airline began selling tickets for flights with assigned seating; the new boarding and cabin structure is set to launch Jan. 27. The shift marks the end of a practice dating back to Southwests first flight in 1971. In its place, a more traditional boarding process with eight boarding groups replaces the long-used A-B-C method. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Delta co-pilot arrested at California airport after landing: Witnesses Southwest: Flyers prefer assigned seats The airline has said the new model is a direct response to passenger feedback. According to Southwest, 80% of current travelers and 86% of prospective flyers prefer assigned seating over the choose-your-own model. However, not all passengers seem to be on board with the revamp. I fly Southwest because of what they were offering, one traveler told NewsNation. Another traveler echoed those sentiments, stating, One of the major reasons I fly Southwest was because of that, and Ill certainly think twice because of that. Ex-flight attendant sentenced for toilet recordings of minors Southwest says farewell to free checked bags The airline has said its making good on its promise of one cabin, more options, offering assigned seats, redesigned cabins, more legroom and new fare bundles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Tuesday, approximately 250 planes have been reconfigured to offer extra legroom in the front rows, with more retrofits underway. While the airlines two free checked bags policy is being retired, the carry-on allowance remains unchanged. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. MADRID (Reuters) -Spain announced plans on Tuesday to give both mothers and fathers an extra week off work after having a baby, extending one of Europe's most generous paid parental leave allowances to 17 weeks. Spain and Finland are the only EU countries to offer equal fully-paid birth leave to both parents. "Spain is moving towards feminism and equality ... and there will be no turning back. We are looking forward," Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz told a news conference. "Four out of ten men in our country now take parental leave. And this is a feminist achievement." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government also approved two additional weeks of paid leave, which can be taken until the child reaches the age of eight. The measure falls short of the 20 weeks' birth leave pledged by the ruling Socialist Party and its far-left junior coalition partner Sumar - which Diaz heads - during the 2023 election campaign. The scheme still needs the formal approval of parliament. Hard-left party Podemos, one of the several groups whose votes are needed to pass legislation, has been pushing for even more time off. Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's minority government faces challenges securing sufficient votes to pass laws as it balances separate negotiations with various political factions. Diaz said parliamentary groups had "responded well" to the initiative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several countries, such as Croatia, Ireland and Bulgaria, offer longer maternity leaves than Spain, but are less generous to fathers. (Reporting by Emma Pinedo; Editing by David Latona and Ros Russell) MADRID (Reuters) -Spain's antitrust regulator said on Tuesday it was expanding its investigation into possible anti-competitive behaviour by Apple for allegedly imposing unequal commercial conditions on developers of mobile applications sold at its app marketplace. The wider probe by the CNMC will examine whether the tech giant established a pricing schedule that developers must follow in order to distribute their apps on the App Store, restricting competition between companies, the watchdog said. Apple said in a statement the App Store was designed to be a "safe and trusted experience for users and a great business opportunity for developers in Spain and around the world" and it will continue to engage with the CNMC "to ensure our concerns are fully understood". The company has denied the allegations since the CNMC launched its investigation a year ago. (Reporting by David Latona; Editing by Andrei Khalip) SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) Interim Spartanburg County Sheriff Jeffery Stephens has asked the South Carolina Secretary of States office to audit the countys account with Crime Stoppers. The sheriffs office announced the decision Tuesday afternoon. At his introductory press conference, Stephens said he was making a full review of department finances a top priority. The sheriffs office said the effort included having internal auditors review county accounts as well as accounts which dont utilize county funds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the process, the sheriffs office said auditors found irregularities in a financial account connected to the agencys account with Crime Stoppers, a community program which allows people to submit anonymous tips, sometimes in exchange for a reward. things we couldnt fully explain or verify based on the records and bookkeeping currently available to us. Because of that, weve asked the Secretary of State to conduct a formal audit of this 501(c)(3) account to help us get a clearer picture of its current state, said the sheriffs office in a statement. The sheriffs office said it will continue to keep the public informed as it moves through the audit process. You can read the full statement below: At Sheriff Stephens introductory press conference, he shared that one of his first priorities would be a full review of our finances. That effort included having internal auditors review county accounts. It also meant reviewing accounts that do not utilize county funds. As part of that process, we reviewed the financial account connected to our partnership with Crime Stoppers. During that review, we came across some irregularities; things we couldnt fully explain or verify based on the records and bookkeeping currently available to us. Because of that, weve asked the Secretary of State to conduct a formal audit of this 501(c)(3) account to help us get a clearer picture of its current state. Sheriff Stephens has been clear from the beginning that hes committed to leading this office with honesty and transparency. That commitment guides every step were taking, and well continue to keep the public informed as we work through this process. Spartanburg County Sheriffs Office Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. MIDDLETOWN, Conn. (WTNH) The number of crashes city-wide and on Washington Street have decreased from one year ago following the installation of automated traffic safety devices, according to data the Middletown Police Department released Monday. Middletown police said the speed enforcement cameras became fully operational on June 9. A 30-day warning period in which drivers exceeding the posted speed limits received warnings instead of citations began on June 6. Related: Middletown Police installing speed cameras on 2 streets Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said that during the period of June 6-July 28, total motor vehicle crashes across Middletown decreased from 215 in 2024 to 200 in 2025. Crashes with injuries fell from 37 to 21, and there was one fatal crash in the city in 2024 with none this year. On Washington Street, which has cameras on the eastbound and westbound lanes, crashes fell from 48 in 2024 to 35 in 2025 and crashes with injuries dropped from 21 to five. There were no fatal crashes either year. Police said the safety devices on Washington Street have led to 9,819 citations, with 1,021 of those going to Middletown residents. The citations have resulted in $606,000 in revenue billed and $30,790 in revenue collected. Amid push for highway speed cameras, CTDOT preaches safety Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police broke down the amount of speeding violations by how fast drivers were going over the posted 35 miles per hour speed limit on Washington Street: 10-14 mph over 72,006 violations 15-19 mph over 52,947 violations 20-24 mph over 20,100 violations 25+ mph over 6,990 violations Violations are issued to the registered owner of the vehicle via mail. Payments can be made on the Middletown payment portal or by scanning the provided QR code. There is no in-person payment option. Police noted speed cameras have been installed on Country Club Road near Moody Elementary School and on Westfield Street near Spencer School, but neither has been activated yet. Police will announce their activation ahead of time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An open house regarding the speed cameras is scheduled at the Middletown Police Department at 222 Main Street for Wednesday, Aug. 6, at 6 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. SPRING HILL, Tenn. (WKRN) Its already established in Middle Tennessee, but one city in Maury and Williamson counties is hoping to introduce a new Whataburger in their area. Whataburger has its sights set on Spring Hill and they want to use an existing restaurant building in the area. Whataburger will return to the Spring Hill Planning Commission agenda tonight, and theyre requesting approval for their site plans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neighborhood News: Stories impacting your community | Read More According to Spring Hill Mayor Matt Fitterer, Whataburger initially received site plan approval back in 2022 for the old Burger King site on Highway 31; however, the burger chain chose not to move forward with it. Now, Whataburger is back with a new site plan for the old KFC building on the southwest corner of Belshire and Hwy 31, at 3004 Belshire Village Drive. As of now, Mayor Fitterer told News 2 Whataburger is requesting very minimal changes to the building. Developers are also proposing a new pedestrian sidewalk and crosswalk along Belshire Way. Theyve also submitted passenger, fire truck, and refuse vehicle circulation plans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Items stolen from Homeland Security recovered, Wilson County Sheriffs Office says Prior to voting, some items were required for review or further discussion, including: The applicant must confirm the front facade transparency Providing alternative traffic mitigation along Belshire Way Providing an alternative fire and refuse plan that does not damage the median. The Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Alderman will hear the plans if the site should be approved in todays planning commission meeting. Do you have news happening in your neighborhood? Let us know by sending an email to neighborhoodnews@wkrn.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) Springfield city officials are looking to push legislation to eliminate drug use in the city. Springfield officials are warning the public of needles and other drug paraphernalia found in local parks, and they want legislation in place as soon as possible. A gathering was held on Tuesday at Johnny Appleseed Park to shed light on increased drug use in local parks, and in this case, fentanyl. This comes after a 4-year-old boy stepped on a discarded needle at a popular Boston park earlier this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local youth learn from first responders at Public Safety Day in Springfield Officials are also referring to President Donald Trumps bill that will crack down on fentanyl trafficking, which will make it easier to prosecute offenders. The law states that no drug activity can happen within 100 feet of a park or a playground, said City Councilor At-Large Brian Santaniello. I think that should be changed. It should go back to 500 feet or 1000 feet. Well, all 50 states have drug-free laws, but Massachusetts seems to be the most lenient. On Tuesday, park crews were picking up what they say appears to be plastic wrappings in connection with drug use. Springfields Parks and Recreation team does clean the local parks each day, but on Tuesday, they held off to show people the quick mess that can be made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can see what were up against, and its bad, said Springfield Parks and Rec. Executive Director Tom Ashe. Some parks are worse than others, but we want to make sure that what happened in Boston never happens in the city of Springfield. And Im committed to making sure it doesnt. Now, local leaders say there are fewer kids seen at these parks due to the increased danger of coming in contact with drugs, so for them, the urgency doesnt stop here. This is real, this is something we are not making up, said City Councilor Lavar Click-Bruce. Our kids are being affected. So again, we are bringing awareness to parents and residents throughout the city of Springfield that this is a real thing, to be careful. Two Springfield city councilors are planning to put together a bill that has stricter drug-free zone policies. This bill is currently in the works, but wont be limited to just fentanyl. Other drugs like heroin are also a target issue. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) St. Agatha Catholic School in Southeast Portland is facing backlash after reportedly rescinding a childs enrollment due to the parents being a same-sex couple. The decision came just weeks before the school year was set to begin. In a message to families obtained by KOIN 6 News, St. Agatha pastor Fr. Luan Tran stated the decision was his alone. I am writing to you today to address a recent decision concerning the enrollment of a new family at St. Agatha Catholic School. I want to be clear and transparent in sharing that this decision was made solely under my pastoral authority and discernment, as pastor of both the parish and the school, Fr. Tran wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community college president running 1,500 miles for Oregon students KOIN 6 News reached out to Saint Agatha for comment and at this time they have not responded. However, the Archdiocese of Portland, which oversees leadership at the school, released a statement to KOIN 6 News and said they support St. Agathas right to carry out its internal affairs and operate its school ministry in fidelity to the perennial teachings of the Catholic Church They also said the original article posted by The Oregonian on Saturday concerns a private internal affair at St. Agatha Catholic School They said they recognize that there are members of the community that do not hold the same views as we do, but they support St. Agatha in its efforts to carry out a faithful witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to the timeless teachings of the Catholic Church. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KOIN 6 News will continue to follow this story. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. SJM Holdings Limited announced yesterday its plan to acquire a 12-story office building in the Hengqin area from Shun Tak Property Development Company Limited for over RMB724 million, with intentions to renovate the property into a three-star hotel featuring no more than 250 guest rooms. According to a statement from SJM, the project is part of certain office properties at Xin De Kou An Shang Wu Zhong Xin, situated north of the Hengqin Port facility, and is currently in a shell state, generating no rental income since its establishment. The property comprises 12 floors of office units and one retail unit, totaling approximately 19,781 square meters of gross floor area. SJM aims to complete the renovation and fit-out works in approximately 24 months to enhance revenue opportunities for tourism and hotel operations in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area. The implementation of the multiple-entry permits policy for mainland tour groups traveling to Hengqin and Macau, alongside the one visa, multiple entries policy for travel to Macau under the Guangdong-Macau In-depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, is expected to boost demand for hotels in Hengqin significantly, stated SJM. It believes that the projects location adjacent to the Hengqin Port facility offers a strategic advantage, creating synergies with existing businesses, adding that the project is anticipated to attract new customer segments, diversify the product portfolio, expand market reach, increase revenue streams, and serve as a gateway to the mainland market. Like this: Like Loading... U.S. News & World Report published its ranking of the best hospitals nationwide, and St. Elizabeth Edgewood ranked No. 1 in Kentucky. The outlet uses hospital performance metrics such as risk-adjusted mortality rates and preventable complications to evaluate more than 4,400 hospitals this year. We have always placed emphasis on delivering excellent overall patient experience, said Garren Colvin, president and CEO of St. Elizabeth Healthcare. Being named the no. 1 hospital in Kentucky is a prestigious honor, but more importantly, it is a testament to the extraordinary care provided by our associates, physicians and volunteers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Click here to see the best hospitals in Ohio. Best hospitals in Kentucky Here are the best hospitals in Kentucky in 2025, according to their ranking on the U.S. News & World Report. St. Elizabeth Healthcare Edgewood (No. 1 in the state). University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital (No. 2 in the state). Baptist Health Lexington (No. 3 in the state). Norton Hospitals (No. 4 in the state). St. Joseph Hospital-Lexington (No. 5 in the state). Baptist Health Louisville (No. 5 in the state). This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: The best hospitals in Kentucky, according to US News & World Report The St. Johns County School District, in its budget approved last week, says the Florida Department of Education is putting $13 million more toward funding private school vouchers for families moving away from public school for the next school year. The school district tells Action News Jax the $55.6 million being put toward private school vouchers in the county shows an increase of about 1,032 families looking into options outside of public school. Read: Rev. Jesse Jackson joining attorneys to present new video in viral JSO traffic stop, arrest Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement St. Johns County teachers are worried those students wont get as good of an education. Im concerned about what our school programs are going to look like, said Lissa ORourke, an exceptional education teacher for the St. Johns County School District. We spoke with ORourke after she reviewed the spike in money toward private school vouchers, more formally known as Family Empowerment Scholarships, which shows the state is putting more than double toward vouchers in St. Johns County this year than the $25.4 million the district says were put toward the vouchers in the districts 2023-2024 budget. Were afraid that these are our taxpayer dollars and theyre going for these vouchers for private schools and charter schools, ORourke said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The school district says more than 5,300 families in St. Johns County are getting money from the state for private school this year. Action News Jax asked district leaders whether all of the money going to these families could affect its budget in the future. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< There is certainly a potential for fewer dollars to go into the public school system, said Cathy Weber, the Chief Financial Officer for the school district. Action News Jax told you last month that the Clay County School District reviewed a roughly $10 million shortage in its budget because of the increasing number of families taking private school vouchers instead of enrolling in public school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, we reported a $1.4 billion shortage for Duval County Public Schools, in part, because of decreasing public school enrollment. The St. Johns County School District tells Action News Jax there is a concern over how the increasing number of families in the county sending their kids to private schools could end up affecting its finances. Teachers like ORourke want parents to stay with the school district to avoid similar problems happening in the county. Im hoping that they realize that, wow, our public schools really are, you know, the core of our education system, ORourke said. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. For more than 1000 years, St. Patricks Day has been celebrated in Ireland every year on 17 March. Over the years, the religious holiday commemorating the death of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, has metamorphosed into a day of celebrating Irish culture through parades, music, special foods, dances and a lot of green - the colour commonly associated with the saint. Many symbols and legends associated with Ireland such as leprechauns and shamrocks come from Saint Patrick. Credited for bringing Christianity to the then-pagan Ireland, Saint Patrick used Celtic symbols such as leprechauns, believed to be meddlesome fairies, to connect the country to Christianity. Legend has it that he chose Shamrocks (three-leaved clovers) as a symbol of the Church and used its three leaves to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to his followers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, Saint Patricks Day is celebrated worldwide in more than 200 countries. It is a national holiday in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the British overseas territory, Montserrat - both of which have inhabitants with Irish descent. In the US, the Chicago river is dyed green annually on Saint Patricks Day using 40 pounds of dye (down from the original 100 to minimize environmental damage) and the river stays green for a few hours - down from the original duration of a week. St. Patricks Day is also celebrated by the likes of Canada, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Argentina, especially by the Irish diaspora. But who was Saint Patrick and why is he so famous? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are seven facts about St. Patrick you may not know: 1. Saint Patrick was not Irish Kilbennan St.Benins Church Window - St.Patrick - Public Domain St. Patrick was born in Britain - not Ireland - in the late 4th century. At age 16, he was kidnapped by Irish raiders who sold him as a slave to tend sheep. He escaped, went back to Britain, and took refuge at a monastery. Years later, he became a priest and travelled across Europe, studying Christianity for 16 years. Eventually, he returned to Ireland to convert the then-pagan country to Christianity. 2. Saint Patricks colour was blue - NOT green Badge of the Order of St Patrick - Public Domain While today we associate St. Patrick and everything Irish with the colour green, the saint was originally depicted wearing blue robes. In fact, that particular shade of blue (known today as azure blue) was originally called St. Patricks blue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Green became popular in the 18th century when discontent with English rule grew and the Irish independence movement started using the Shamrock (linked to St. Patrick) as a symbol of unity and resistance. The colour green became a symbol of sympathy with Irish independence. However, today, azure blue - or rather, St. Patricks blue - remains Ireland's official heraldic colour. 3. His real name was not Patrick St. Patricks original name was Maewyn Succat and he was born to Christian parents in Roman Britain. His father was a deacon and his grandfather, a priest. But St. Patrick (according to his own account) was not religious as a child. He was renamed Patricus after becoming a priest which he then changed to Patrick upon his return to Ireland. 4. Saint Patrick drove the snakes out of Ireland Depictions of St. Patrick driving the snakes out of Ireland - Public Domain Popular legend has it that St. Patrick stood on a hilltop, Croagh Patrick (now an important site of pilgrimage in Ireland), and banished all the snakes from Ireland using a wooden staff. Over 100,000 people climb the holy mountain every year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, scientists say that the island nation was never home to any snakes. The banishing of the snakes, however, could be true on a metaphorical level in the eradication of paganism from Ireland and the triumph of Christianity. 5. Saint Patrick's Day was originally a religious holiday, not a day to party Today, St. Patrick's Day is frequently used as an excuse to party and drink pints of Guinness. - AP In 1903, Irish law declared St. Patricks Day as a day of religious observance. Up until the 1970s, pubs were closed on 17 March as per Irish law. In 1995, the Irish government began a national campaign to use St. Patricks Day to drive tourism into the country and display Irish culture to the world. Today, it is celebrated as a day of drinking, feasting, and parades where many dress up as leprechauns. 6. St Patricks Day parades began in America - not Ireland St. Patrick's Day celebrations in Dublin, Ireland - AP Although Saint Patricks Day has been celebrated for over a millennia in Ireland, the famous parades which have now become the heartbeat of the holiday festivities originally began in America in the 18th century by Irish immigrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first definite St Patricks Day parade took place in 1737, in Boston, Massachusetts, but the modern-day parades we see today have their roots in a 1762 parade celebration in New York. For disadvantaged Irish immigrants in America - forced to escape Ireland because of famine and unable to find jobs in America upon their arrival - Saint Patrick's Day became a source of pride and celebration, a way to connect to their Irish roots. 7. Nobody knows exactly where St. Patrick is buried Although several sites identify themselves as St. Patricks burial place, no one knows exactly where the saint is buried. Popularly-accepted locations include Down Cathedral in the town of Downpatrick in Northern Ireland, which is also the burial place for Irelands other saints, Brigid and Columba, as well as Saul. However, some state that St. Patrick may be buried in Glastonbury Abbey in England. TUESDAY, JULY 29, 2025, 12:27 p.m. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) The 38-year-old Green Bay man charged in connection with a stabbing incident outside a bar in 2024 on St. Patricks Day was in court on July 25. Court records show that Darrell McGillivray was in court while in custody, alongside his attorney; however, McGillivray waived his right to counsel, and his attorneys motion to withdraw was granted by the court. A final pre-trial hearing was set for August 28 at 3 p.m. with a two-day jury trial on September 2 and September 3 at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m., respectively. Green Bay man accused in St. Patricks Day stabbing has status conference, trial dates set TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025, 10:42 a.m. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) A 38-year-old Green Bay man who faces charges stemming from allegedly stabbing a person outside of a bar on St. Patricks Day in 2024 was in court for a status conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court records show that Darrell McGillivray was in custody at the Brown County Jail while in court, with the present bond continued. A plea hearing was set for July 25 at 9:45 a.m., with the trial dates still set for September 2 at 8:30 a.m. and September 3 at 10 a.m. Green Bay man accused in St. Patricks Day stabbing set for status conference, jury trial to follow THURSDAY, APRIL 3, 2025, 4:13 P.M. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) The 38-year-old Green Bay man accused of stabbing somebody outside a bar on St. Patricks Day in 2024 is set for a jury trial later this year, with a status conference prior. Court records show that Darrell McGillivray appeared in court in custody at the Brown County Jail with his attorney in court. The present bond continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A status conference for June 12 at 9:45 a.m. was set, with jury trial dates set for September 2 at 8:30 a.m. and September 3 at 10 a.m. No more details were provided. Green Bay man accused in St. Patricks Day stabbing set for plea hearing FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2025, 2:05 P.M. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) A 37-year-old Green Bay man accused of stabbing someone during a St. Patricks Day celebration was arraigned in February, with a plea hearing now scheduled. Court records show Darrell McGillivray was arraigned in Brown County court on Feb. 21. His plea hearing is set for April 3 at 10:30 a.m. McGillivray faces one count of aggravated battery intending to cause great bodily harm with the use of a dangerous weapon and one count of disorderly conduct with the use of a dangerous weapon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No further details were provided. UPDATE: Man charged in St. Patricks Day stabbing in Green Bay has arraignment date set THURSDAY, 12/26/2024, 2:25 p.m. (WFRV) The Green Bay man who is accused of stabbing someone on St. Patricks Day was back in court on Thursday morning. Court records show that 37-year-old Darrell McGillivray was in court for a plea hearing as the present bond was continued. McGillivrays arraignment has been set for March 6 at 9:15 a.m. UPDATE: Man charged in St. Patricks Day stabbing in Green Bay has plea hearing date scheduled MONDAY, 9/23/2024, 3:59 p.m. (WFRV) The Green Bay man accused of stabbing someone on St. Patricks Day was back in court. According to court records, on September 19 37-year-old Darrell McGillivray was in court for a motion hearing. A plea hearing was then scheduled for December 26. Bond was reportedly continued and no additional information was provided. UPDATE: Man charged with St. Patricks Day stabbing in Green Bay has arraignment date set FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 2024, 3:36 p.m. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) A 37-year-old man who was accused of stabbing somebody outside of a Green Bay bar on St. Patricks Day had his arraignment hearing set during a court appearance on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Records show that Darrell McGillivray of Green Bay appeared in court with his attorney as his present bond continued during his preliminary hearing. Demand for Discovery was filed on Thursday, and McGillivray is set for his arraignment hearing on Sept. 19 at 3:30 p.m. UPDATE: Man charged with St. Patricks Day stabbing in Green Bay has preliminary hearing scheduled FRIDAY, AUGUST 16, 2024, 10:15 a.m. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) The 37-year-old Green Bay man accused of stabbing another man outside of a bar in Green Bay on St. Patricks Day was back in court for another status conference on Wednesday. Wisconsin Circuit Court records show that Darrell McGillivray, 37, appeared with an attorney on behalf of Judge Marc Hammer, and a preliminary hearing, plus arraignment, has been scheduled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Impaired Wisconsin driver hospitalized after collision with light pole, processed for OWI McGillivrays preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 21 at 10:30 a.m., while his arraignment is scheduled for September 19 at 3:30 p.m. Local 5 News will continue to follow this case as it progresses through the court system. UPDATE: Man charged with St. Patricks Day stabbing in Green Bay has status conference TUESDAY, JULY 9, 2024, 10:25 p.m. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) A 37-year-old Green Bay man accused of stabbing another man outside a bar in Green Bay on St. Patricks Day was back in court for a status conference on Tuesday. Wisconsin Circuit Court records show that Darrell McGillivray, 37, appeared in the Brown County Courthouse, where his present bond was continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gas leak in Oconto causes trains & traffic to be halted while technicians fixed gas line Another status conference has been scheduled for August 14 at 9:00 a.m. No additional details were provided. UPDATE: Man charged with stabbing on St. Patricks Day in Green Bay back in court for status conference WEDNESDAY, 06/19/2024, 10:20 a.m. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) Darrell McGillivray, the man accused of stabbing another man outside a Green Bay bar on St. Patricks Day, was back in court for another status conference on Tuesday. Court records show that 37-year-old McGillivrays present cash bond of $20,000 was continued, and his time limit was waived. Green Bay PD warn of vehicle break-ins, release video of 3 people checking for unlocked doors Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McGillivray is due back in court on July 8 for another status conference at 1:30 p.m. UPDATE: Man charged with stabbing on St. Patricks Day in Green Bay back in court THURSDAY, 05/16/2024, 5:05 p.m. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) The Green Bay man accused of stabbing another man outside a bar on St. Patricks Day was back in court on Wednesday. Court records show that 37-year-old Darrell McGillivray appeared by video for a status conference. Another status conference was scheduled for June 18 at 2:00 p.m. Joannes Skate Park graffitied in Green Bay, police investigating Present bond remains in effect for McGillivray. Local 5 News will continue to follow this case as it progresses through the court system. St. Patricks Day stabbing in Green Bay: Man charged after altercation outside downtown bar has status conference scheduled Thursday, 03/28/2024, 3:24 p.m. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) A Green Bay man accused of allegedly stabbing a man outside a bar on South Broadway Street was back in court on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 37-year-old Darrell McGillivray appeared in court in person and has not yet been appointed an attorney by the State Public Defenders Office. Court records show that the present bond has been continued and McGillivray is scheduled to be back in court again at 2:00 p.m. on May 15 for a status conference. Wednesday, 03/20/2024, 4:05 p.m. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) A Green Bay man was in court after he allegedly stabbed a man outside a bar on South Broadway Street. According to a criminal complaint obtained by Local 5, 37-year-old Darrell McGillivray is facing charges related to a stabbing that happened outside a bar in Green Bay. On March 17 around 2 a.m., authorities were sent to a bar on South Broadway Street for a reported stabbing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When authorities got to the scene, a victim was seen with multiple deep lacerations, according to the complaint. The victim was eventually put into an ambulance and sent to a hospital. Driver dies at hospital in Neenah after single-vehicle crash on County Road CB The complaint says that the victim was interviewed by authorities and he described what happened. He reportedly said that he and his friend were at the bar when a verbal altercation happened. A bartender reportedly ended up kicking a man out of the bar. This is when yelling was heard outside of the bar. The victim went outside and found a fight breaking out. The victim told authorities that he felt 2-3 punches on his side and later realized that he was bleeding in the area where he thought he got punched. The suspect, later identified as McGillivray, allegedly fled the scene. Another witness reportedly told authorities that McGillivray had been shouting at people all night and didnt want to leave the bar. Authorities reviewed the camera footage and McGillivray could reportedly be seen bumping into and shoving multiple people. Authorities later found Mcgillivray, and he reportedly asked to speak with a sergeant personally. A knife was found on McGillivray as well as what looked like blood on his clothing. McGillivray reportedly spoke with the sergeant and said that people were following him and that the Brown County Sheriffs Office was plotting to follow him. He also claimed that he was innocent and it was in self-defense. Local on-air radio personality dies in Oconto County crash, WOMT Radio releases statement McGillivray is charged with: Aggravated Battery, Repeater, Use of a Dangerous Weapon Felony Up to 15 years in prison (Can be increased due to repeater & using a deadly weapon) Disorderly Conduct, Repeater, Use of a Dangerous Weapon Misdemeanor Up to 90 days in prison (Can be increased due to repeater & using a deadly weapon) Court records show that McGillivray was in court on March 18 for his initial appearance. He had a cash bond set at $20,000. He is due back in court on March 27 for a preliminary hearing. No additional information was provided. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. Four police officers who shot and wounded a man who raised his gun toward them at a busy St. Paul intersection last year wont be charged, the Ramsey County Attorneys Office announced Tuesday. Officers responded about 7:45 p.m. Oct. 28 to five 911 calls reporting that a man had fired a gun multiple times near University and Snelling avenues, according to a summary from the county attorneys office. Earl Bennett, 41, is now being held in the Hennepin County jail, charged with murder in three fatal shootings in Minneapolis on Oct. 27 and 28. The St. Paul officers who encountered him did not know he was a murder suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Oct. 28 incident in St. Paul, officers saw a man later identified as Bennett holding a handgun to his head, videos showed. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, which investigated, later determined Bennetts handgun was unloaded and had no magazine. SPPD officers repeatedly offered their help to Mr. Bennett while they also issued numerous loud and clear verbal commands directing Mr. Bennett to put down his gun, which he did not do, prosecutors wrote in a memo. Mr. Bennett ultimately stopped in the middle of the intersection of University and Snelling Avenues while the four officers positioned themselves behind two SPPD vehicles. There were numerous bystanders in the area and people in vehicles stopped at a traffic light. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers fired less lethal munition projectiles at Bennett, interspersed with numerous additional verbal commands made by multiple officers ordering Mr. Bennett to drop his gun, the memo said. After Bennett was struck by a projectile, he said something to the effect that if he was hit with another (less lethal munition) projectile, he was going to make the officers kill him, prosecutors said of statements from officers. Bennett was shirtless and shoeless. Video showed he was visibly agitated pacing from side to side and yelling at officers, the memo said. He held a handgun to the side of his head and then aimed it directly towards officers positioned in front of him at 7:57 p.m. Four officers responded by firing a total of 31 rounds at him. Fifteen of the rounds struck Bennett and he was treated at Regions Hospital for injuries that resulted in the amputation of one of his legs, the memo said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gun that Bennett held had been reported stolen from a truck in Apple Valley two days earlier. The owner said it had been loaded with 17 rounds, and three loaded magazines each containing 17 rounds were also stolen. Blood testing showed Bennett had methamphetamine in his system during his standoff with officers. Sgt. LaMichael Shead and Officer Chase Robinson were identified as firing handguns, and Officers Shawn Marlowe and Blake Steffen each fired rifles. Prosecutors who reviewed the BCA investigation concluded the officers use of deadly force was necessary and justified under state law. Related Articles A man stabbed on Brantley Street in late July has died, pushing the citys homicide count for the month to 15 confirmed cases, according to the Dallas Police Department. Officers responded around 1:20 a.m. on July 25 to the 3300 block of Brantley Street and found a man suffering from a stab wound. He was taken to a hospital, where he died on July 27. Police are investigating the death as a homicide under case number 107422-2025. No suspect information has been released. This latest fatality caps one of the most violent months Dallas has seen in 2025, with a span of just 27 days yielding 15 killings involving shootings, stabbings, and even a vehicular homicide. Victims have ranged from teenagers to senior citizens. Multiple suspects have been arrested, while others remain unidentified. July 2025 Homicide Cases Dallas Police Department 1. July 1 Camp Wisdom Road 53-year-old Jaime Rokkett was shot and killed. Rashonda Lowe, 43, was arrested and charged with murder. Case #093451-2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2. July 4 Bruton Road A man was found shot in a vehicle and died at a local hospital. No suspect info released. Case #094784-2025 3. July 5 Deep Ellum (Canton & Good Latimer OIS) 22-year-old Caylen Fritz died during a shootout involving two groups. Police say Tevin Valentine pointed a gun at officers and was shot in return. Case #095366-2025 4. July 5 Pick Fair Circle A man was shot and died at the hospital. A grand jury referral is pending. Case #095374-2025 5. July 5 2600 Canton Street (Fugitive Arrested) Same event as the Deep Ellum shooting. Gael Aguilar, 19, was later arrested and charged with murder in Fritzs death. Case #095391-2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 6. July 10 Easter Avenue 17-year-old Jaden McMillan was shot and killed by an unknown suspect. Case #098231-2025 7. July 13 Olusta Drive 63-year-old Maria Manning was found dead at the scene. A man was also injured. Case #099485-2025 8. July 14 Pemberton Hill Road An unidentified man was shot and died at a hospital. No suspect identified. Case #099786-2025 9. July 19 Wilhurt Avenue 29-year-old Isaiah McWilliams died from gunshot wounds. Case #102558-2025 10. July 21 Bahama Drive 19-year-old Keyunte Lewis was shot and died at the hospital. Case #103596-2025 11. July 21 West Northwest Highway 23-year-old Anthony Cristobal was shot and killed by a civilian and a security guard after allegedly opening fire. A grand jury will review the case. Case #103538-2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 12. July 23 Lagow Street A woman was struck and killed by a vehicle in a hit-and-run, classified as a vehicular homicide. Case #104577-2025 & #105959-2025 13. July 26 Maple Avenue 44-year-old Augustin Espinosa was shot and killed. Robert Simmons, 43, was arrested and faces multiple charges. Case #106414-2025 14. July 27 Military Parkway A man was found unresponsive and died at the scene. Rafael Baez Yanez, 43, was arrested and charged with murder. Case #106752-2025 15. July 27 (Injury on July 25) Brantley Street A man stabbed on July 25 died from his injuries two days later. The case is being investigated as a homicide. Case #107422-2025 Ongoing Investigations and Community Concerns The surge in killings across Dallas has heightened concerns over public safety, particularly in the citys overnight hours. While police have made several arrests and submitted grand jury referrals, many of the cases remain unsolved. The Dallas Police Department is urging anyone with information related to any of these cases to contact the assigned detectives or call the DPD homicide division directly. July 28 (UPI) -- A Texas man has been sentenced to 2.5 years in prison after pleading guilty Monday to stalking and harassing WNBA star and Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. Michael Lewis, 55, shouted "guilty as charged" inside the courtroom Monday and was promptly sentenced. Lewis pleaded not guilty in January in Indianapolis to "sending numerous threats and sexually explicit messages" to Clark, according to the Marion County Prosecutor's Office. During Monday's hearing and despite pleading guilty, Lewis repeatedly denied responsibility, saying, "I just want her to be safe. I've never threatened her. I've never thought about threatening her." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He is going to talk himself out of a plea," the judge said. "You have to understand that as part of a plea deal, you are admitting responsibility." In January, Clark told police she had resorted to swapping public appearance locations to avoid Lewis after receiving the threatening messages. Michael Lewis, 55, poses for a mugshot on Jan. 12, 2025, at the Marion County Adult Detention Center in Indianapolis. Lewis was sentenced Monday to 2.5 years in prison for "sending numerous threats and sexually explicit messages" to WNBA star Caitlin Clark. File Photo by the Marion County Sheriff's Office Investigators traced the threats on an X account to an IP address at a hotel in Indianapolis, where Lewis was staying. "Lewis's presence in Indianapolis was especially concerning given that he is a Texas resident," detectives said in court documents. "When asked why he was making so many posts about Caitlin Clark, Lewis said, 'just the same reason everybody makes posts,'" the affidavit said. "When asked about posts that were threatening in nature, Lewis said it wasn't him. Lewis claimed that this is just an imaginary relationship." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to Monday's prison sentence, the judge recommended mental health treatment and ordered Lewis not to use the Internet. He is also under a no-contact order with Clark. With time served, Lewis will spend about a year and a half in prison. "No matter how prominent a figure you are, this case shows that online harassment can quickly escalate to actual threats of physical violence," Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears said in a statement. "This resolution ensures that the defendant is held accountable for his threatening actions, the fear he instilled and the disruption caused," Mears said, adding that with Monday's sentencing, Clark will "be able to have peace of mind while focusing on what matters to her." While parts of Texas see their first triple-digit temperatures of the year amid an ongoing heatwave, we can rely on Starbucks to remind us of autumn's approach. The coffee chain has announced the launch date of its 2025 fall menu, which includes the iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte. Here's what to know. When does Starbucks start selling pumpkin spice? Starbucks revealed its Pumpkin Spice Latte will return to stores Tuesday, August 26, the company announced last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See photos of the world's first 3D-printed Starbucks, opening in South Texas. Starbucks 2025 fall menu This year's Starbucks seasonal menu will feature beloved classics as well as new flavors. The Pumpkin Spice Latte is returning in all its forms (Hot, Iced and Frappuccino) and so is fan-favorite Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai and Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte. Starbucks is also introducing two new menu items this fall: the Pecan Oatmilk Cortado and Italian Sausage Egg Bites. "Our Cortado combines three ristretto shots of Starbucks Blonde Espresso to give a smoother, sweeter, and richer espresso profile, with perfectly steamed whole milk for a velvety texture and balanced flavor," the company's site says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ristretto shots are smaller but more concentrated than traditional espresso shots. The Cortado, served in a short 8-ounce cup, is currently available and can be customized with flavors, cold foams and toppings. What's in a Pumpkin Spice Latte? Starbucks' famous Pumpkin Spice Latte includes steamed 2% milk, pumpkin spice sauce, brewed espresso, whipped cream, vanilla syrup and pumpkin spice toppings. The 2% milk can be substituted with another milk option, and customers may ask for no whipped cream and/or toppings on their latte. The pumpkin spice sauce uses cinnamon, clove and nutmeg. Can't wait for a PSL? Starbucks fall flavors in grocery stores now Along with its fall menu launch date, Starbucks also announced some of its limited-time autumn flavors are available even sooner. Fall coffee and creamers, including the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Inspired Creamer (in dairy and non-dairy options) is in stores and online retailers now through December. Fall's ready-to-drink (RTD) drinks, such as the Iced Espresso Pumpkin Spice Latte and Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino Chilled Coffee Drink, will also return for a limited time in early August. Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Flavored Coffee, Fall Blend Coffee, Smoked Butterscotch Flavored Coffee and Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Concentrate will also become available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New this year, Starbucks is also releasing the Maple Pecan Latte Inspired Non-Dairy Creamer to sweeten any made-at-home coffee drink. USA TODAY contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: When does Pumpkin Spice season start at Starbucks? See 2025 fall menu Sir Keir Starmers threat to recognise Palestine if Israel does not end its war in Gaza and commit to a two-state solution carries profound symbolic weight. Britain, more than any other world power, shaped the present-day contours of the Holy Land when it issued the Balfour Declaration in 1917. Lord Balfours 67-word statement famously or infamously, depending on your perspective supported the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, paving the way for Israels creation three decades later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many British diplomats, Labour backbenchers and Cabinet ministers, see recognising Palestine as a way of redressing the historical imbalance, placing Israel and Palestine on equal footing. They hope it will add to mounting international pressure on Benjamin Netanyahu, Israels prime minister, to halt the war in Gaza and pave the way for an equitable peace settlement with the Palestinians. Unlike France, which last week became the first G7 state to announce formal recognition Britains stance remains conditional, Sir Keir said recognition would be withheld if Israel reaches a ceasefire, pledges to abandon threats to annex the West Bank and commits to a long-term peace process that delivers a two-state solution. Where G20 countries stand on recognising state of Palestine But these conditions are unlikely to be met. Mr Netanyahu, long opposed to a two-state solution, is more likely to harden his position than concede under what he will see as British provocation. Recognition in September therefore appears almost inevitable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond symbolism, however, the move will have little tangible effect. After all, 147 countries have already recognised Palestine without altering its prospects for statehood. Recognition cannot conjure up a functioning state. Under the Montevideo Convention of 1933, a state requires a permanent population, a government, defined borders and the capacity to conduct foreign relations. Palestine, even its supporters concedes, meets only two of these criteria. It has two rival governments: the Palestinian Authority led by Mahmoud Abbas in the West Bank, which recognises Israel, and Hamas in Gaza, which does not. Israeli officials say Britain, like France, is effectively rewarding Hamas by placing demands on Mr Netanyahu but none on the group that carried out the massacre of more than 1,000 people in Israel on Oct 7 2023. The shift in the British Governments position at this time, following the French move and internal political pressures, constitutes a reward for Hamas, the Israeli foreign ministry said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some warn that Hamas may now be less inclined to agree a ceasefire and release the hostages it is still holding in Gaza. Shany Mor, a former director for foreign policy at Israels National Security Council, said: Hamas has even less incentive now to agree a ceasefire that it did a week ago. Starmer is burying the last living Israeli hostages alive in the tunnels. He is saying, If Peter and Paul cant reach a compromise in the next two months, Ill have no choice but to grant all of Pauls demands. How do you think Paul will act now? The other missing criterion is defined borders. This was not always the case. The Oslo Accords of the 1990s, supported by both Israel and the Palestinian Authority, envisioned a Palestinian state broadly encompassing the West Bank and Gaza with East Jerusalem as its capital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, Jewish settler numbers have nearly trebled to more than 700,000. New settler outposts fragment Palestinian cities, Gaza is in ruins, East Jerusalem effectively annexed and the West Bank is carved into what critics call Bantustans. A viable state has never looked less likely. So why recognise one, particularly since earlier recognitions achieved little? Proponents say it sends two messages. First, that some of Israels closest allies have lost patience with Mr Netanyahus war in Gaza. Bronwen Maddox, the director of Chatham House, an international affairs think tank: said: These are permanent members of the UN Security Council, G7 countries that come from a tradition of giving Israel broad support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre not part of the anti-Israel, anti-American bloc to which many of the previous countries that recognise Israel belong. So they are essentially saying to Israel even your friends are drawing a line at this point. Second, they argue, it could help revive the long-dormant two-state solution. France and Saudi Arabia are co-hosting a conference at the United Nations in New York this week to reinvigorate peace talks. Saudi Arabia, which before the war seemed ready to normalise ties with Israel, has reverted to demanding Palestinian statehood first. Britain and France once planned to recognise Palestine only after a peace deal. Officials now hope unilateral recognition will press Mr Netanyahu into negotiations and bolster the moderate Palestinian leadership of Mr Abbas against Hamas. That outcome seems doubtful. Britains already modest influence over Mr Netanyahu will likely shrink further; Israel might even retaliate by expanding settlements or even annexing parts of the West Bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Relations with Washington could also suffer. Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, called French recognition a slap in the face to victims of Oct 7. Donald Trump was even more dismissive, saying Emmanuel Macrons pledge to recognise Palestine wont change anything. The US president is likely to view Sir Keirs move similarly: a gesture that appeases Labours left and signals virtue, but ultimately carries none of the weight that the Balfour Declaration did when Britain wielded far greater global influence. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Sir Keir Starmer has declared that Britain will recognise Palestine in September unless Israel makes peace in Gaza. The Prime Minister on Tuesday issued the ultimatum to Benjamin Netanyahu following an emergency Cabinet meeting and a prior meeting with Donald Trump. In an address to the nation, Sir Keir said: Ive always said that we will recognise a Palestinian state as a contribution to a proper peace process at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act. He said the Israeli government must implement measures to end the appalling situation in Gaza, where the death toll on Tuesday surpassed 60,000, according to officials in the Hamas-run Strip. These steps include: Addressing Hamas, Sir Keir said Britains demands were unchanged and unequivocal. They must immediately release all of the hostages, sign up to a ceasefire, disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israels foreign ministry promptly said it rejects Britains position, arguing it constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza. If its conditions are not met, Britain will become the second G7 country and member of the UN Security Council to commit to formally recognising the state of Palestine, following Frances pledge last week. What do the four demands on Israel entail? 1. Agree to a ceasefire Britain is demanding Israel reach a ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza and will continue to support US, Egyptian and Qatari efforts to mediate an agreement. That ceasefire must be sustainable and it must lead to a wider peace plan, which we are developing with our international partners, the Prime Minister said, adding that the plan would deliver security and proper governance in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Israel recalled its delegation from Doha, triggering the end of the longest round of negotiations since the war started in October 2023. Pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside Downing Street - Belinda Jiao The two sides had been at loggerheads over key issues, including the extent of Israels military withdrawal from the Strip and how aid would be distributed. A previous two-month ceasefire and hostage release agreement collapsed in March, which prompted months more fighting and led to Israel imposing an 11-week aid blockade. 2. Allow the UN to restart the supply of aid The Prime Minister insisted that Israel allow the UN to restart the supply of humanitarian aid into Gaza after warnings of starvation across the territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, in Gaza because of a catastrophic failure of aid, we see starving babies, children too weak to stand: images that will stay with us for a lifetime, Sir Keir said. His demand followed an alert by the IPC, the global body responsible for monitoring hunger, that the worst-case scenario of famine is now unfolding in Gaza. Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, conceded that the situation in the Strip was difficult, saying Israel was working to allow in large quantities of aid. Credit: Israeli army handout Over the weekend, Israel said it would open humanitarian corridors to allow aid convoys into the Strip as a result of mounting international condemnation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For months, only a small amount of humanitarian assistance has entered the enclave, under the tight control of the Israeli and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. The aid delivery plan, which bypassed the former UN-led system and relies on private US security contractors, has led to hundreds of deaths of Palestinians. The Prime Minister also said that at least 500 trucks must be allowed to enter Gaza every day, which was the norm before the war. Israel over the weekend approved at least 100 aid trucks per day, which charities complained is a fraction of what is needed. 3. No annexations in the West Bank As part of the wider peace process, Sir Keir said Israel must make clear there will be no annexations of Palestinian land in the occupied West Bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The territory, which has been occupied by Israel since the Arab-Israeli war in 1967, is central to Palestinians aspirations for a state that would include Gaza and have East Jerusalem as its capital. To Israel, the West Bank is of strategic and religious importance. It is known in Israel as Judea and Samaria and home to many biblical sites a factor that has drawn settlers. In 2019, Mr Netanyahu announced plans to annexe parts of the territory, where roughly half a million Israelis live in Jewish settlements among three million Palestinians. But Israel suspended such steps under a 2020 deal normalising ties with the United Arab Emirates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, far-Right ministers in the Netanyahu coalition have continued to advocate for annexation and the expansion of settlements, which Palestinians say undermines moves towards the two-state solution. In the wake of the Oct 7 attacks, violence has been surging in the West Bank largely because of emboldened settlers, who often face few legal consequences attacking Palestinian villages and towns. 4. Long-term sustainable peace based on two-state solution Britain has demanded that Israel not just commit to a temporary ceasefire, but a long-term plan for peace that will pave the way for negotiations on a two-state solution. Sir Keir said Britain was willing to move towards recognising Palestine because the very idea of a two-state solution is reducing and feels further away today than it has for many years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Statehood is the inalienable right of the Palestinian people, he said. Echoing his statements on Tuesday at a UN summit in New York, David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, declared there was no better vision than a two-state solution in order to resolve the decades-long conflict between Palestinians and Israelis. Advocates of the approach have envisaged a Palestine in the Gaza Strip and West Bank linked by a corridor through Israel. Yet, obstacles have long impeded its implementation, including Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank and uncompromising positions on core issues including borders, the fate of Palestinian refugees, and the status of Jerusalem, an ancient city holy to both sides. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire from midnight to resolve deadly border clashes, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said yesterday. Anwar, who chaired the talks as head of the ASEAN regional bloc, said both sides have reached a common understanding to take steps to return to normalcy. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai have agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire with effect from midnight of 28 July, Anwar said as he read out a joint statement. Hun Manet and Phuntam hailed the outcome of the meeting and shook hands at the conclusion of the brief press conference. The ceasefire talks have started earlier yesterday in Malaysia in an urgent effort to resolve deadly border clashes that entered a fifth day despite mounting international calls for peace. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai gathered for the meeting at the official residence of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim who is hosting the negotiations as chair of the regional bloc, Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The fighting flared last Thursday after a land mine explosion along the border wounded five Thai soldiers. Both sides blamed each other for starting the clashes, that have killed at least 35 people and displaced more than 260,000 people on both sides. Both countries recalled their ambassadors and Thailand shut all border crossings with Cambodia, with an exception for migrant Cambodian workers returning home. Troops from both sides reported ongoing fighting yesterday along border areas. Gunfire could be heard as dawn broke in Samrong in Cambodias Oddar Meanchey province, Associated Press reporters covering the conflict said. Maly Socheata, a Cambodian defense ministry spokesperson, said the Thai assault was ongoing and strong yesterday. Anwar said late Sunday that both sides would present their conditions for peace but what is important is immediate ceasefire. I hope this can work, Anwar was quoted as saying by Malaysian national news agency Bernama. Although its not as bad as many other countries, we have to put a stop (to the violence). The meeting followed direct pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has warned that the United States may not proceed with trade deals with either country if hostilities continue. Before departing for Kuala Lumpur, Phumtham told reporters in Bangkok that representatives from China and the U.S. will also attend as observers. He said the key focus would be on an immediate ceasefire, but noted trust could be an issue as Cambodia has not stopped its strikes. We have informed that we dont have trust in Cambodia. All they have done reflect that they are not sincere in solving this problem. So they have to show the detail how they will do to prove their sincerity, he said. Officials later said that the Chinese and American ambassadors to Malaysia are attending the meeting. The violence marks a rare instance of open military confrontation between ASEAN member states, a 10-nation regional bloc that has prided itself on non-aggression, peaceful dialogue and economic cooperation. In a statement yesterday, ASEAN foreign ministers reiterated concern over the rising death toll, destruction of public properties and displacement of a large number of people along the disputed border areas. They urged the two countries to resolve their disputes through negotiations and expressed support for efforts to find a middle ground during yesterdays talks. The conflict also drew the attention of Pope Leo XIV. At the Vatican on Sunday, the pontiff said he was praying for all those affected by war in the world, including for those affected by the clashes on the border between Thailand and Cambodia, especially the children and displaced families. At an evacuation shelter in Cambodias Siem Reap province far away from the border, Ron Mao, 56, prays for a ceasefire deal during the leaders meeting. She and her family fled their home a kilometer (0.6 mile) away from the front line when fighting broke out Thursday. They took refuge in a shelter but moved again to another camp further away after hearing artillery shelling. I dont want to see this war happen. Its very difficult and I dont want to run around like this, she said, When I heard our Prime Minister go to negotiate for peace, I would be very happy if they reached the deal as soon as possible, so that I and my children can return home as soon as possible. Thai evacuees shared the sentiment. I beg the government. I want it to end quickly, said farmer Nakorn Jomkamsing at an evacuation camp in Surin hosting more than 6,000 people. I want to live peacefully. I miss my home, my pets, my pigs, dogs and chicken, the 63-year-old woman said. The 800-kilometer (500-mile) frontier between Thailand and Cambodia has been disputed for decades, but past confrontations have been limited and brief. The latest tensions erupted in May when a Cambodian soldier was killed in a confrontation that created a diplomatic rift and roiled Thailands domestic politics. EILEEN NG, JINTAMAS SAKSORNCHAI, PUTRAJAYA , MDT/AP Like this: Like Loading... The Prime Ministers statement to Cabinet included several valuable steps to relieve the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He is to be commended for sending food supplies, for delivering them by air drops if necessary, and for offering treatment to Palestinian children with serious medical conditions in the UK. The British public is always generous in such dire circumstances and on this front Sir Keir will have the nations support. But his promise to recognise a State of Palestine in September unless Israel fulfils a series of improbable conditions is neither realistic nor justifiable. In Jerusalem, Sir Keirs demands will be met with cynicism: they look like an ultimatum addressed only to one side, dictated by the arbitrary deadline of the UN General Assembly. Indeed, the Prime Minister appears to be falling in line with Emmanuel Macron, rather than paying attention to Donald Trump, who has already indicated that he will veto any such recognition of Palestine. There is, moreover, a contradiction at the heart of Sir Keirs strategy. He insists that there would be no role for Hamas in future governance, but demands that Israel desist from removing Hamas by force. Yet the West has no leverage over this terrorist organisation and his plan offers no practical way to exclude Hamas from control of Gaza a key part of the proposed Palestinian state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Hamas which began the war with its hideous massacre on October 7 2023 is let off lightly, Israel is made to bear all the responsibility for bringing it to an end. Yet it takes both sides to end hostilities and Hamas refuses even to release its hostages, let alone surrender. Israel must acquiesce forthwith in the creation of a potentially hostile neighbouring state, the territories and military status of which are not even vaguely specified by Sir Keirs peace plan. He calls on Hamas to disarm, but imposes no such condition on a future Palestinian state. Yet after the shock of October 7, not only the present Israeli government, but any future one would only countenance a two-state solution with a demilitarised Palestine. The Starmer peace plan looks at best a naive bid for a seat at the negotiating table, at worst a calculated attempt to appease Labours pro-Gaza faction and to stave off the threat of Jeremy Corbyns new far-Left party. Sir Keir is likely to fail on both fronts. He would have done better to focus on sending aid and steer a cautious, moderate course towards Israel. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Aid agencies say this week is crucial if thousands of Gazans are to be saved from starvation - they warn Israel's measures to increase aid supplies aren't enough and call for all border crossings to reopen LONDON (AP) The U.K. will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza, allows the U.N. to bring in aid and takes other steps toward long-term peace, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Tuesday. Starmer, who is under mounting domestic pressure over the issue as scenes of hunger in Gaza horrify many Britons, convened a rare summertime Cabinet meeting to discuss the situation there. It came after he discussed the crisis with President Donald Trump during a meeting in Scotland on Monday. Trump told reporters on Monday that he didnt mind Starmer taking a position on Palestinian statehood. On his flight back to the U.S. on Tuesday, Trump said the two never discussed the U.K. potentially recognizing a Palestinian state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have no view on that, Trump said. Israel rejects the announcement Starmer said that Britain will recognize a state of Palestine before the United Nations General Assembly, "unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire and commit to a long-term, sustainable peace, reviving the prospect of a two-state solution. "And this includes allowing the U.N. to restart the supply of aid, and making clear there will be no annexations in the West Bank," he said. It seems highly unlikely that the government of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu could meet the conditions, which cut to the heart of the most intractable issues in the conflict. Netanyahu rejects the two-state solution on both nationalistic and security grounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel's foreign ministry said it rejected the British statement. The shift in the British governments position at this time, following the French move and internal political pressures, constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of hostages," the ministry said on X. Starmer also repeated U.K. demands that Hamas release all the hostages it holds, agree to a ceasefire, disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza. Starmer said in a televised statement that his government will assess in September how far the parties have met these steps before making a final decision on recognition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Britain has long supported the idea of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, but has said recognition should come as part of a negotiated two-state solution to the conflict. But Starmer said Britain was willing to take the step because the very idea of a two-state solution is reducing and feels further away today than it has for many years." He said that despite the set of conditions he set out, Britain believes that statehood is the inalienable right of the Palestinian people. Growing pressure on Israel Pressure to formally recognize Palestinian statehood has mounted since French President Emmanuel Macron announced that his country will become the first major Western power to recognize a Palestinian state in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As with France, British recognition would be largely symbolic, but its part of a broader European and global shift against Israel and could increase diplomatic pressure for an end to the conflict. More than 140 countries recognize a Palestinian state, including a dozen in Europe. Macrons announcement last week made France the first Group of Seven country and the largest in Europe to take that step. Europe has widely soured on Israel over Gaza. Countries including Ireland, Spain and the Netherlands have sought to aggressively pressure Israel to let in more aid and cease military operations. More than 250 of the 650 lawmakers in the House of Commons have signed a letter urging the British government to recognize a Palestinian state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Britain has a particular historic role as the former governing power of what was then Palestine and author of the 1917 Balfour Declaration, which backed the establishment of a Jewish homeland. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Britain bore a special burden of responsibility." Our support for Israel, its right to exist, and the security of its people, is steadfast, Lammy told a meeting at the U.N. in New York. However, the Balfour Declaration came with the solemn promise that nothing shall be done, nothing which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of the Palestinian people as well. And colleagues, this has not been upheld, and it is a historical injustice which continues to unfold. France welcomed Britain's announcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United Kingdom is joining the momentum created by France for the recognition of the state of Palestine, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot posted on X. Omar Awadallah, assistant to the Palestinian Authoritys foreign minister, welcomed Starmers announcement and said the U.K. has a historic responsibility to recognize a Palestine state and would be correcting a historic injustice, if it follows through in September. The Palestinian Authority has limited autonomy in pockets of the occupied West Bank. ___ Associated Press writers Angela Charlton in Paris, Chris Megerian, Ibrahim Hazboun, and Farnoush Amiri and Edith Lederer at the U.N. contributed to this story. The United Kingdom will recognize a Palestinian state if Israel does not agree to a ceasefire and move toward peace in Gaza by September, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned Tuesday. Starmer made the announcement during a press conference on Tuesday, just a day after meeting with President Donald Trump in Scotland and discussing the Israel-Hamas war and the hunger crisis in Gaza. "I can confirm that the U.K. will recognize the State of Palestine by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September, unless the Israeli government take substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire and commit to a long-term sustainable peace, reviving the prospect of a two-state solution," Starmer told reporters. "This includes allowing the U.N. to restart the supply of aid and making clear there will be no annexations in the West Bank." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Meanwhile, our message to the terrorists of Hamas is unchanged and unequivocal. They must immediately release all the hostages. Sign up to a ceasefire, disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza," he continued. News Outlets Desperately Concerned For Their Journalists In Gaza, Urge Israeli Authorities To Help Trump declined to endorse Starmer's move in a statement to reporters aboard Air Force One. He noted that both Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have now moved toward recognizing a Palestinian state. Read On The Fox News App "Essentially, they're saying the same thing and that's okay. But you know it doesn't mean I have to agree," Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer said his government will make a final assessment ahead of the UNGA meeting to determine what steps both Israel and Hamas have taken and make a final decision on recognizing a Palestinian state. The U.K. leader went on to say that the primary motive behind the announcement is to change the situation on the ground in Gaza as well as facilitate the release of more hostages. Israel's foreign ministry rejected Starmer's announcement in a countering statement on Tuesday. "The shift in the British governments position at this time, following the French move and internal political pressures, constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of hostages," the ministry said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas Losing Iron Grip On Gaza As Us-backed Group Gets Aid To Palestinians In Need The U.K.'s announcement comes just one day after Starmer met with Trump in Turnberry, Scotland, where both leaders condemned the humanitarian and hunger crisis in Gaza. Trump publicly broke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during the meeting, saying he disagreed that the hunger crisis is a false narrative put forward by Hamas. "Based on television, I would say not particularly, because those children look very hungry," Trump said when asked if he agreed with Netanyahu's claims. "Thats real starvation stuff." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has highlighted America's efforts to secure aid for Gaza, noting some $60 million the U.S. spent on the issue in recent days. "We gave $60 million two weeks ago for food for Gaza, and nobody acknowledged it. Nobody talks about it. And it makes you feel a little bad when you do that," Trump said during a Sunday meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. "And, you know, you have other countries not giving anything. None of the European countries, by the way, gave I mean, nobody gave but us and nobody said, gee, thank you very much. And it would be nice to have at least a thank you." Israel has begun conducting aid drops across Gaza in recent days, bending to pressure after months of restricting the flow of aid. The IDF had long said Hamas was stealing much of the resources being sent into the region, a statement Trump and the U.S. have echoed. Original article source: Starmer says UK to recognize Palestinian state if Israel doesn't agree to ceasefire, Hamas must 'disarm' British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has told his cabinet that the United Kingdom will recognise the state of Palestine by September unless Israel takes substantive steps to end its war on Gaza and commits to a lasting peace process. According to a government statement issued after an emergency cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Starmer said the move could come before the United Nations General Assembly in New York unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire, halts plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank, and supports a political path towards a two-state solution. [Starmer] reiterated that there is no equivalence between Israel and Hamas and that our demands on Hamas remain, that they must release all the hostages, sign up to a ceasefire, accept that they will play no role in the government of Gaza, and disarm, the statement added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer interrupted ministers summer holidays to discuss a draft European-led peace initiative and plans to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza, where the UN has warned of looming famine. While past UK governments have supported Palestinian statehood when the time is right, none has publicly tied it to a specific deadline or laid out preconditions so explicitly. Israel criticised the UK following the announcement, calling it a reward for Hamas that would only undermine diplomatic efforts to end the war on Gaza. In a statement posted on X, Israels Foreign Ministry claimed the UKs move would damage any chance of a new ceasefire. Israel broke the last negotiated ceasefire in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer informed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of the plan in a phone call before making it public, Reuters reported. Details of the conversation have not been disclosed. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has denied having any talks with Starmer about Britains recognition plans. We never did discuss it, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Tuesday. Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian ambassador to the UK, said the countrys formal recognition of Palestine would hold particular historical and moral weight. It represents a meaningful step in addressing the deep injustice rooted in the colonial-era Balfour Declaration and the decades of systematic denial of Palestinian rights that followed, he wrote on X, referring to Britains 1917 declaration endorsing the establishment of a Jewish homeland that helped pave the way to the state of Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zomlot wrote that recognition of Palestine must be part of a broader process rooted in justice and international law. It is not a stand-alone solution and must be accompanied by the full and equal application of international law, beginning with an immediate end to the genocide in Gaza, followed by reconstruction and full accountability for the war crimes committed against the Palestinian people, he added. The right time The proposal, backed by a growing number of MPs within Starmers own Labour Party, would mark a major shift in the UKs position, as successive governments have long delayed recognition, citing the need for the right time. With pressure mounting from within Starmers own party, his position appears to have shifted. More than half of Labours backbench MPs have signed a letter urging the government to formally recognise a Palestinian state as leverage to push Israel towards peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to reporters, Starmer defended the timing and conditions of the announcement, saying the decision was driven by the intolerable situation in Gaza and a fear that the two-state solution was slipping out of reach. This is intended to further that cause, he said. Its done now because Im particularly concerned that the idea of a two-state solution is reducing and feels further away today than it has for many years. He added that recognition of Palestine would be part of an eight-point peace plan the UK has been developing with European partners. Last week, French President Emmanuel Macron said France would formally recognise Palestine as a state, becoming the largest and most influential European nation to do so. European Union members Norway, Spain and the Republic of Ireland have previously said they recognise the State of Palestine. Labour MP Sarah Champion, who organised the letter to Starmer, said there will never be a perfect moment to recognise Palestinian statehood, but warned this might be the last chance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What we do have, however, is the perfect storm to prevent a two-state solution ever happening, she said. It is now or never if we believe in Palestinians right to recognition. Al Jazeeras senior political analyst Marwan Bishara said leaders including Starmer and Macron continue to support Israel in its war on Gaza. We need to see some measures being taken other than just lofty rhetoric, because they are in no position to be talking about peace and justice when they are accomplices in genocide, he said. Bishara also criticised the lack of specifics from the two leaders when they announced their plans to recognise a Palestinian state. Is it a state in 10 percent of the West Bank? Or is it a state on all territories occupied in 1967 including East Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza as contiguous sovereign territories? he asked. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday said the United Kingdom is prepared to recognize a Palestinian state if Israel fails to take immediate action to end the war in the Gaza Strip. Starmer gave the deadline of the United Nations General Assembly in September, following a move by French President Emmanuel Macron, who announced Pariss recognition of a Palestinian state at the leaders-level summit next month. Ive always said that we will recognize a Palestinian state as a contribution to a proper peace process at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution, with that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act, Starmer said, delivering remarks to a rare summertime Cabinet meeting to discuss the situation in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer called for the Israeli government to take substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire and commit to a long-term sustainable peace within a two-state solution. He called for Israel to allow the U.N. to restart supply of aid in Gaza and make no move of annexations in the West Bank. Meanwhile, our message to the terrorists of Hamas is unchanged, but unequivocal, they must immediately release all of the hostages, sign up to a ceasefire, disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza, he said. International recognition of a Palestinian state at the United Nations is largely a symbolic move and is unlikely to advance in the U.N. Security Council if the U.S. exercises its veto. Only a Security Council vote can admit Palestine as a member state with voting power in the General Assembly. Still, the move is a significant demonstration of the frustration among Israels closest allies at the devastation wrought in the Gaza Strip. The nearly two-year war was launched after Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostage. Hamas continues to hold 20 living hostages and 30 bodies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the Gaza Health Ministry said the death toll in the strip surpassed 60,000 people this week, and starvation is stalking the population amid severe Israeli constraints on the supply of food and aid into the territory. Following Macrons announcement last week to recognize a Palestinian state, Israel announced it would scale up humanitarian assistance deliveries but put the blame on Hamas as the obstacle to a ceasefire deal and responsible for the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. Neither international conferences disconnected from reality nor unilateral statements at the UN will lead to peace, Israels ambassador to the U.N., Danny Danon, said in a statement last week, criticizing Frances decision on Palestinian statehood and a conference promoting the two-state solution. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has backed off support for a two-state solution and has said Palestinians could exercise self-governance but that Israel must retain full security control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Trump, who has blamed Hamas for failing to come to a ceasefire agreement, has recognized starvation in the Gaza Strip and said the U.S. would work to scale up humanitarian deliveries, but he has deferred to Netanyahu over whether he supports an independent Palestinian state. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. As Sir Keir Starmer made his address inside Number 10, I was stood outside in a noisy deafening even Downing Street. Gaza protestors were making themselves more than heard with drums, sirens and whistles. It was a visible, visceral demonstration of the public pressure the prime minister has come under to toughen his stance on Israel. Public pressure, but also political pressure. More than half of Labour backbench MPs signed a letter demanding the government recognises a Palestinian state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several ministers in the cabinet have been joining the lobbying behind the scenes. In recent weeks there has been a hardening of the government's language. Today a hardening of the government's position. And make no mistake. This is a big change in British foreign policy. It has long been a Labour position to recognise a Palestinian state as part of a peace process and at a time of maximum impact. Sir Keir has decided that time is now. There are important caveats. The prime minister said the UK will recognise a Palestinian state in September unless the Israeli government takes "substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were three particular demands. That Israel: Reaches a ceasefire Makes clear there will be no annexation in the West Bank Commits to a long-term peace process that delivers a two-state solution There were also demands on Hamas. The government said they must: Immediately release all of the hostages Sign up to a ceasefire Disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza There is a question over how realistic the conditions are. Given the makeup of the Israeli government, which relies on support from far-right ministers opposed to a two-state solution, it seems highly unlikely Israel will agree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am told Sir Keir spoke to Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before the cabinet meeting this afternoon. Whether Hamas would accept disarming and having no part in the government in Gaza is also highly questionable. The conditions have already been criticised, including by some Labour MPs like Sarah Champion who led the lobbying for the government to make this move. Champion says she is "troubled our recognition appears conditional on Israel's actions". "Israel is the occupier, and recognition is about the self-determination of the Palestinian people," she adds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Conservatives say this is just "designed to appease his backbenchers" and "will not secure lasting peace". So will the government go ahead with recognising a Palestinian state if only some of those conditions are met? What if, for example, there is a ceasefire but not much progress to a two-state solution? I'm told by senior figures in government that decision will be made in September. But now that the prospect of British recognition of a Palestinian state is a realistic prospect, it will be difficult for the government to row back from that, particularly given the fact so many Labour MPs will demand it goes ahead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So why now? And will it make any difference to the situation in Gaza? Sir Keir says this is the right moment partly because the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is so dire. And, partly because he said he was "particularly concerned that the idea of a two-state solution is reducing and feels further away today than it has for many years". The key question is: will this end up being anything more than a symbolic gesture? The prime minister wants to avoid that. The conditions are designed to put pressure on Israel to change course. However, the US has far greater influence over Israel - and the country's long-standing position is to only recognise a Palestinian state as part of moves towards a long-term resolution to the conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donald Trump has suggested doing so now would "reward Hamas". Sir Keir wants to show he is a serious leader who can have a real impact on the global stage. Whether that aim is realised is now, largely, in the hands of Netanyahu and Trump. [BBC] Sign up for our Politics Essential newsletter to keep up with the inner workings of Westminster and beyond. Iowa community colleges will see less funding for career and technical education programs as the funding formula changes. (Stock photo by Warodom Changyencham/Getty Images) How career and technical education for students across the state is implemented could see drastic changes in the coming years after the Iowa State Board of Education voted to shift millions in funding for these programs away from community colleges and to K-12 school districts. Community college officials told board members that changing the formula that determines how federal funding for career and technical education (CTE) is dispersed between community colleges and school districts would lead to students having less access, with colleges possibly having to close programs that school districts could not provide alone, even with additional dollars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I hope that the amount to which our community colleges are already integrated into K-12 will be taken into account with some of these federal and state decisions, because we do have just such a different landscape, and it will get harder for us to serve K-12, as well as adult populations, if some of these funding sources change, said Community Colleges for Iowa Executive Director Emily Shields. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The Iowa State Board of Education voted in June to approve its 2025-2029 Perkins V plan, which would change the ratio of allocations to community colleges and K-12 school districts from a 53.5% and 46.5% split to a 60-40 split, with K-12 schools getting the larger share. The more even ratio will be used for funding allocations in the 2025-2026 school year, with the new rates being implemented for the rest of the plans timeline. Perkins V funding comes from the Strengthening Career and Technical Education (CTE) for the 21st Century Act, and provides around $14.5 million to Iowa annually, according to the Iowa Department of Education website. These funds are distributed for use in CTE programs across the state, including career academies and other initiatives aimed at helping high school students start their career training. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The board approved this plan with the expectation of revisiting it at its December meeting, as members said during discussion theyd like to hear more information and feedback from community college and school district stakeholders before the new rates . Shields said part of the reasoning behind the decision to change the ratio was that the shift would bring Iowa closer to national averages of the same metric, but she disagreed that the comparison would work since Iowa has much higher rates of concurrent enrollment among high school students than the rest of the country. While were open to change and looking at efficiencies and funding, always, we are operating a national model, a very efficient system, our adult literacy rates are higher than the national average, or concurrent enrollment is higher than the national average, Shields said. So were always concerned that changes in that funding mix will disrupt what is a highly successful model. Kyle Collins, associate vice president for academic affairs at Des Moines Area Community College, spoke during public comment at the meeting in opposition to the change and said in an interview moving dollars away from college CTE programs will negatively impact the quality of education students will receive in their career training, ultimately harming the workforce pipelines career academies and other initiatives create for local industries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around $400,000 of the $1.4 million DMACC usually receives in Perkins funding would instead be allocated to school districts, he said, and if that number is broken down among the 89 public, private and charter schools the college works with, each would receive an average of $4,500. I believe they would need many more resources to be able to do what we provide at each school district, so it would cost more for each school district to replicate what we provide their students through our academies, Collins said in an interview. Iowa Valley Community College District President Anne Howsare Boyens also spoke during public comment period, adding that an estimated $2 million will be allocated away from Iowas 15 community colleges and spread across the states more than 300 districts. This change will hurt both community colleges and school districts, Howsare Boyens said, some of which dont have high enough demand from students to offer the specialized programs if they could even afford the equipment and other costs that come with running them. Smaller community colleges who rely on Perkins funding to keep their programming maintained could also have to close their doors, eliminating opportunities for students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without this Perkins funding, rural community colleges may be forced to scale back or eliminate specialized CTE programs that are costly to maintain, threatening the long term viability and responsiveness of academic offerings to our community and industry needs, Howsare Boyens said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The petition notes that many of these students are not studying Torah in a consistent manner, and often work off-the-books - in violation of the conditions for military exemption. The State of Israel will stop funding ultra-Orthodox (haredi) yeshivot designated specifically for at-risk youth that don't draft to the IDF, a Supreme Court ruling handed down on Monday revealed. The hearing was on a petition filed by NGO Israel Hofsheet against the funding itself. The petition came following a previous High Court of Justice ruling forbidding the state from funding yeshivot that didn't settle their status with the IDF. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The so-called dropout yeshivot are the Noham institutions for disengaged haredi youth. Starting from the upcoming school year - in September, funding will be discontinued for students in these yeshivot who have not resolved their status with the military. The petition notes that many of these students are not studying Torah in a consistent manner, and often work off-the-books - in violation of the conditions for military exemption. Some NIS 35m. has been allocated by the Welfare and Social Affairs Ministry to these institutions. This ruling constitutes another significant affirmation of the principle established in the Supreme Court's ruling on the draft exemption: once the legal framework for exemption collapses, the state loses its legal basis for supporting activities tied to military deferment, including yeshivas that enable and facilitate the violation of the law, said Israel Hofsheet. THE HAREDI leadership argues that it is forbidden to draft yeshiva students whose Torah is their profession and that they defend the State of Israel through their studies. (credit: Marc Israel Sellem/Jerusalem Post) Earlier this month, the IDF began to summon all 54,000 remaining eligible haredim for IDF service. It was the largest-ever coordinated mass pursuit of the sector, and is scheduled to actualize the recruitment 24,000 haredim have already been summoned Over the past year, 24,000 haredim have already been summoned, though only a miniscule number actually showed up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All this comes against the backdrop of the weariness and mental, emotional and psychological challenges faced by soldiers and reservists who have been continually serving in the IDF since 2023. The issue of suicides related to these challenges has recently reached alarming heights. We will continue to do what the government refuses to do - put a complete stop to government subsidies for draft evasion, down to the last shekel. Its time for equality, said Israel Hofsheet executive director Uri Keidar. Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this report. State officials will hold two public hearings in early September, one of them in Kernersville, to receive public comments on possible effects on water quality from a proposed natural gas pipeline project crossing through the Kernersville area. The proposed Southeast Supply Enhancement Project by Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Co. LLC, or Transco, would be an expansion of an existing gas transmission pipeline. In North Carolina, the project proposes construction of approximately 24.1 miles of 42-inch diameter pipeline in Guilford, Forsyth and Davidson counties, known as the Salem loop; construction of approximately 4.4 miles of 42-inch diameter pipeline in Rockingham County, which is known as the Eden loop; and modifications to existing infrastructure in Davidson, Cleveland, Iredell, Lincoln and Gaston counties. The proposed pipeline project would temporarily affect 8,100 linear feet (1.5 miles) of streams and 11.2 acres of wetlands related to the construction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The North Carolina Department of Environmental Qualitys Division of Water Resources' first public hearing will be on Tuesday, Sept. 2, at 6 p.m. at the Rockingham Community College Advanced Technologies Building Auditorium, 560 County Home Road, Wentworth. Speaker registration opens at 5:30 p.m. onsite via a sign-in sheet. The second public hearing will be Thursday, Sept. 4, at 6 p.m. at the Kernersville Municipal Council Chambers, 134 E. Mountain St. Speaker registration opens at 5:30 p.m. onsite via a sign-in sheet. Two large stream crossings and one open water crossing are proposed to be installed underneath surface waters using the horizontal directional drill or conventional bore methods. In all locations, Transco is proposing that once construction is complete, the ground surface, streams and wetlands would be restored as near as practical to their pre-construction condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For a project to be issued a certification, it must meet the following criteria: The project minimizes adverse impacts to surface waters and wetlands based on consideration of existing topography, vegetation, fish and wildlife resources, and hydrological conditions. The project does not result in the degradation of groundwaters or surface waters. The project does not result in secondary or indirect impacts that cause or will cause a violation of downstream water quality standards. The project provides for replacement of permanent impacts through mitigation. The riparian buffer authorizations are required since the proposed project would impact streams located in the Jordan Lake and Randleman Lake watersheds. In addition to speaking at the public hearing, the public can also submit comments by mail to Samantha Wooten, 401 Permitting, 1617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC, 27699-1617. Public comments may also be submitted by leaving a voicemail at 919-707-8495. Written comments must be received by DWR no later than 5 p.m. on Oct. 6. State investigating metro Atlanta man accused of defrauding investors out of thousands The Georgia Secretary of States Office has launched an investigation into a metro Atlanta man accused of defrauding multiple people out of tens of thousands of dollars through a questionable investment scheme. Channel 2 Action News has learned the case involves Gregory Johnson, owner of ARP Petroleum Products, an Atlanta-based company at the center of multiple fraud complaints. Eric Willingham is one of several victims who say they trusted Johnson with their money, only to be left with broken promises and empty pockets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He told Channel 2 investigative reporter Ashli Lincoln that he invested nearly $8,000 in 2018 after Johnson claimed the money would be returned within 14 days with profit. You know the term fighting mad? Thats how I feel with this, Willingham said. The documentation that he had, the knowledge of the productit really made me feel comfortable about investing. But the return never came. Willingham took Johnson to court and won. A judge ordered Johnson to repay the $7,700. Years later, Willingham said he still hasnt received a dime. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, Channel 2 Action News reported on two other men, Michael Roberson and Edward Wright, who said they were persuaded by Johnson, a fellow church member, to collectively invest over $40,000 with similar promises of doubled returns. Hes doing this all in the name of the Lord, Willingham said. After seeing Channel 2 Action News reporting in June, Willingham realized he wasnt alone. I recognized his voice, Willingham said. And said, Yeah, Ive been a victim of this also. The Georgia Secretary of States Office confirmed to Lincoln that it now has an open investigation into Johnson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency is urging anyone else who may have been victimized to come forward. If youve been victimized, you can file a complaint here. Johnson has not returned calls from Channel 2 Action News, but in a prior phone interview, he said, There are circumstances that are all behind that they will be fully paid within a reasonable amount of time. All victims told Channel 2 Action News that they have not received a dime from Johnson. Willingham said hes glad the state is getting involved. Because hes (Johnson) going to keep going. This is his way of life, Willingham said. SPRINGFIELD, Mo. A whites only community says they are looking at coming to the Springfield area. The group, called Return to the Land (RTTL), did not specify where in the Springfield area they were looking to potentially locate. I dont think its good for the city, said Springfield resident Mari Jo Miles. Were a melting pot. We have all different cultures and all different people from different countries. I want it to stay that way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to RTTLs website, they are a private member association exclusively made for white people. Jewish people are also barred from membership. They say they vet members through an application process based on European ancestry. There is no room in Springfield, no room in Missouri for a group to come and call home that sets us back decades and decades and allows segregation and racism and horrible, awful rhetoric to exist in our own community, said Missouri State Representative Betsy Fogle. Fogle says she is unable to stay silent on this topic. We are a community that celebrates our differences and also our similarities, Fogle said. And everything that this group stands for has no place in my hometown, no place in our state, no place in this country, and quite frankly, no place in the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fogle says as a state politician, she believes every person in a position of power should be speaking up. We should all be using our platforms to make sure that were communicating consistently and over and over again that there is no room in Springfield or no room in Missouri for a group to come and call home. She says if they do come to Missouri, there would be a conversation within the legislature on the legality of a community like RTTL. I would expect our attorney general to do what the attorney general in Arkansas has committed to doing, which is to launch an investigation into the constitutionality and the legal validity of this group, Fogle said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Miles says this type of community does not represent Springfield. I dont know if I would say they should be illegal, Miles said. I just know I dont want them here. Co-founder Eric Orwoll tells Ozarks First they are a private association that does not sell real estate. In a statement, he said, The attorneys weve consulted believe what were doing is legal. Americans have the right to freely associate and form intentional communities on whatever basis they choose. The group says they are solely based on shared ancestral values. They say they dont believe in hatred or violence. I think we work hard on accepting groups (in Springfield) and we dont want anybody excluded and not just one type of religion or one type of culture, Miles said. We want them all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While no City official has been contacted regarding an alleged whites only proposed development in the Springfield area, City Manager David Cameron would like to make it abundantly clear that there is no place anywhere, let alone in Springfield, Missouri, for this type of development. The City issued a joint statement with City Council on July 29. It is as follows: The Springfield City Council and City Manager David Cameron have been made aware of media reports regarding a group calling itself Return to the Land and its alleged proposal to create a whites-only enclave in the Springfield area. While no one from this group has contacted the City directly, we want to state in the strongest possible terms: there is no place in Springfield, or anywhere, for such a divisive and discriminatory vision. Efforts to create developments based on racial exclusion are not only contrary to our laws, it also runs counter to the spirit of who we are and who we aspire to be. Segregationist thinking has no place in our citys present or future. While it is improbable that such a project could legally or practically occur within city limits, silence is not an option. As a regional leader, we will not stand idly by in the face of attempts to revive outdated, harmful ideologies. Springfield moves forward by bridging differences, fostering belonging, and building a stronger, more united community for all. Springfield City Council and City Manager David Cameron Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. Jul. 28A welfare check ended in gunfire after New Mexico State Police shot a man in Santa Fe who they said was armed and fired a weapon during a standoff with police on Friday. On July 26, Santa Fe officers were dispatched after a woman called police and requested a welfare check for her daughter, who she believed was being assaulted by her boyfriend, 38-year-old Paul Gallegos, according to a news release from Wilson Silver, spokesperson for NMSP. Santa Fe police spoke with the daughter, who had crawled through the window of a recreational vehicle to speak to police, Silver said. "Despite visible injuries including facial swelling and scratches, she denied any domestic abuse had occurred." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman later told police the two had gotten into an argument because she had used Gallegos' phone to buy drugs, according to the criminal complaint filed in Santa Fe Magistrate Court. Officers talked to the woman before they heard a gunshot from the inside of the vehicle, according to the criminal complaint. Santa Fe police called NMSP, who arrived around 1:26 p.m. As state police officers told Gallegos to get out of the vehicle, NMSP officer Nathan Dale "observed what appeared to be the barrel of a firearm emerging from one of the RV's windows," Wilson said. "Moments later, gunfire was reported, and at least one NMSP officer discharged their duty weapon in response." Gallegos exited the RV after shots were fired, the criminal complaint said. He was taken into custody and transported to a hospital for his injures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police spoke with Gallegos at the hospital, where Gallegos admitted that he had fired one shot from his revolver while inside of the RV because "he was thinking of hurting himself but stopped," the criminal complaint stated. Gallegos added that he had considered "suicide by cop," according to the complaint. Gallegos is charged with two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, battery and felony possession of a firearm. A medical worker prepares to vaccinate people at a pop-up COVID-19 vaccination clinic in a rural Delta community in April 2021 in Leland, Miss. The Mississippi State Department of Health, like other state health departments, is concerned about the potential loss of federal funding. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Between 2016 and 2022, as congenital syphilis cases rose nationally and especially in the South, Mississippi saw a one thousand percent increase from 10 to 110 in the number of newborn babies who were hospitalized after contracting the disease, known to cause developmental issues, intellectual disabilities, and even death. So in 2023, the state Department of Health mandated that all medical practitioners screen for the disease in pregnant mothers, and it has been running advertisements to spread awareness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Annual congenital syphilis cases in Mississippi rose from 62 in 2021 to 132 in 2023, according to state data. The number fell to 114 last year. There have been 33 cases so far this year. That work wont stop despite potential budget cuts, Dr. Daniel Edney, Mississippis state health officer, said in an interview. Were going to keep doing what we have to do, you know, to keep it under control. State by state, public health departments take a similar approach: They monitor, treat and try to stem preventable diseases, alongside their host of other duties. But in the coming year, health department officials with their agencies already strapped for cash fear theyll find it much more difficult to do their jobs. President Donald Trumps budget proposal for fiscal year 2026 would cut the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention budget by more than half, from $9.3 billion to $4.2 billion. The proposal serves as a wish list from the administration, a blueprint for the Republican-controlled Congress as it works through upcoming spending legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If lawmakers hew to Trumps vision, then state and county public health departments would be hit hard. States contribute to their own health departments, but a lot of them rely heavily on federal funding. And around half of local public health department funding comes from federal sources, primarily the CDC, as noted in a 2022 report from the National Association of County & City Health Officials. The federal government provides a lot of funding, but the actual implementation of public health programs happens at the state and local level, said Josh Michaud, associate director of global health policy at KFF, a health policy research group. Each state has its own approach, in many ways, to how public health programs are overseen, how theyre funded, how they are implemented. In announcing his departments share of the proposed budget, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Trumps goals align with new priorities in reversing the chronic disease epidemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But many local health leaders point to the longtime mission of state public health departments in preventing the spread of disease. Local public health is on the front lines preventing communicable disease, operating programs to prevent chronic disease, ensuring our septic and well water systems are safe, said Dr. Kelly Kimple, acting director of North Carolinas Division of Public Health within the Department of Health and Human Services. Im very concerned, Kimple said, especially given the magnitude of funding that were talking about, as we cant keep doing more with less. Clawing back COVID-era grants Other federal budget cuts also have states worried. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many state public health departments grew alarmed when the Trump administration announced in March that it would be clawing back $11.4 billion in COVID-era funding for grants that were slated to extend into 2026. Twenty-three states and the District of Columbia sued. A federal district court in Rhode Island temporarily blocked the cuts, and the case remains tied up in court. The courts preliminary injunction may not protect temporary staff or contractors, though. Public health departments have been laying off staff, cutting lab capacity and reducing immunization clinics, said Dr. Susan Kansagra, chief medical officer for the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. Historically, public health departments receive funding in boom and bust cycles, meaning they tend to get more federal support during emergencies, said Michaud, of KFF. But since the Great Recession of 2008, there was a general decline in public health support funding until the COVID pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, KHN and The Associated Press reported that between 2010 and 2019, spending on state public health departments declined by 16% per capita and spending for local health departments fell by 18%. Nationally, syphilis cases reached historic lows in the 2000s, thanks to robust prevention efforts and education from public health officials. By 2022, however, cases reached their highest numbers nationally since the 1950s. In the wake of the COVID emergency, youve seen a sort of backlash to what people had been calling the overreach of public health and imposing vaccination requirements and lockdowns and other public health measures, Michaud told Stateline. Smallpox, cholera and typhoid Public health departments and officials go back to the 19th century, when there was a greater emphasis on sanitation efforts to prevent spread of diseases such as smallpox, cholera and typhoid, which were rampant at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the end of the century, 40 states had established health departments, which to this day are responsible for water sanitation, tracking the spread of disease, administering vaccinations, furnishing health education, providing screenings for infants and some prenatal care for moms at local clinics, offering family planning services, and tracking and treating sexually transmitted infections, among other things. What we're seeing now is a complete upheaval of the funding going into public health. Josh Michaud, associate director of global health policy at KFF Kimple pointed to measles as a current example of a disease thats spreading fast. When North Carolinas health department detected a case in the state, she said, the department identified and contacted everyone who might have been exposed, helped people get tested, worked with doctors to make sure they knew how to respond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats the legacy of local public health, Michaud said. The federal government cannot decide, This public health program will happen in this state, but not that state, that kind of thing. And cannot declare a national lockdown. The COVID pandemic tested a lot of those boundaries. It really is a state and local responsibility to protect public health. And thats always been the case, since the beginning of our country, Michaud said. And what were seeing now is a complete upheaval of the funding going into public health. A major cut in services Kimple said shes seen recent progress in her state in the support for funding public health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Carolinians viewed our work as highly important to improving health and well-being in the state, and appreciated the local presence, the reliable information, the role in prevention and efforts to protect, in particular, vulnerable communities, she said. Similarly, Edney said that Mississippi state lawmakers were showing more support, despite some setbacks in 2016 and 2017. New federal cuts could throw a wrench in the health departments economic plans and its ability to reach small communities. Now the federal rug is being pulled out from under us, he said. Edney said he expects the federal share of his departments public health funding to fall from its current 65% to around 50%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Edney said hes been trying to strengthen Mississippi health departments longevity by diversifying its revenue streams by, for example, accepting private donations. The state will not stop doing its core work, he said, regardless of federal funding. Were not going to cut back on services at the county health department, because what we do now is all mission critical, Edney said. Stateline reporter Shalina Chatlani can be reached at schatlani@stateline.org. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX LELAND, MISSISSIPPI - APRIL 29: Medical workers with Delta Health Center prepare to vaccinate people at a pop-up COVID-19 vaccination clinic in a rural Delta community on April 29, 2021 in Leland, Mississippi. An estimated 23 percent of Mississippians are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and the Mississippi State Department of Health has reported a total of 334 new cases with the numbers currently trending up. Mississippi, a southern state with pockets of entrenched poverty, has struggled to vaccinate residents in remote areas who may not have access to the internet or transportation. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Between 2016 and 2022, as congenital syphilis cases rose nationally and especially in the South, Mississippi saw a one thousand percent increase from 10 to 110 in the number of newborn babies who were hospitalized after contracting the disease, known to cause developmental issues, intellectual disabilities, and even death. So in 2023, the state Department of Health mandated that all medical practitioners screen for the disease in pregnant mothers, and it has been running advertisements to spread awareness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Annual congenital syphilis cases in Mississippi rose from 62 in 2021 to 132 in 2023, according to state data. The number fell to 114 last year. There have been 33 cases so far this year. That work wont stop despite potential budget cuts, Dr. Daniel Edney, Mississippis state health officer, said in an interview. Were going to keep doing what we have to do, you know, to keep it under control. State by state, public health departments take a similar approach: They monitor, treat and try to stem preventable diseases, alongside their host of other duties. But in the coming year, health department officials with their agencies already strapped for cash fear theyll find it much more difficult to do their jobs. President Donald Trumps budget proposal for fiscal year 2026 would cut the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention budget by more than half, from $9.3 billion to $4.2 billion. The proposal serves as a wish list from the administration, a blueprint for the Republican-controlled Congress as it works through upcoming spending legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If lawmakers hew to Trumps vision, then state and county public health departments would be hit hard. States contribute to their own health departments, but a lot of them rely heavily on federal funding. And around half of local public health department funding comes from federal sources, primarily the CDC, as noted in a 2022 report from the National Association of County & City Health Officials. The federal government provides a lot of funding, but the actual implementation of public health programs happens at the state and local level, said Josh Michaud, associate director of global health policy at KFF, a health policy research group. Each state has its own approach, in many ways, to how public health programs are overseen, how theyre funded, how they are implemented. In announcing his departments share of the proposed budget, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Trumps goals align with new priorities in reversing the chronic disease epidemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But many local health leaders point to the longtime mission of state public health departments in preventing the spread of disease. Local public health is on the front lines preventing communicable disease, operating programs to prevent chronic disease, ensuring our septic and well water systems are safe, said Dr. Kelly Kimple, acting director of North Carolinas Division of Public Health within the Department of Health and Human Services. Im very concerned, Kimple said, especially given the magnitude of funding that were talking about, as we cant keep doing more with less. Clawing back COVID-era grants Other federal budget cuts also have states worried. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many state public health departments grew alarmed when the Trump administration announced in March that it would be clawing back $11.4 billion in COVID-era funding for grants that were slated to extend into 2026. Twenty-three states and the District of Columbia sued. A federal district court in Rhode Island temporarily blocked the cuts, and the case remains tied up in court. The courts preliminary injunction may not protect temporary staff or contractors, though. Public health departments have been laying off staff, cutting lab capacity and reducing immunization clinics, said Dr. Susan Kansagra, chief medical officer for the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. Historically, public health departments receive funding in boom and bust cycles, meaning they tend to get more federal support during emergencies, said Michaud, of KFF. But since the Great Recession of 2008, there was a general decline in public health support funding until the COVID pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, KHN and The Associated Press reported that between 2010 and 2019, spending on state public health departments declined by 16% per capita and spending for local health departments fell by 18%. Nationally, syphilis cases reached historic lows in the 2000s, thanks to robust prevention efforts and education from public health officials. By 2022, however, cases reached their highest numbers nationally since the 1950s. In the wake of the COVID emergency, youve seen a sort of backlash to what people had been calling the overreach of public health and imposing vaccination requirements and lockdowns and other public health measures, Michaud told Stateline. Smallpox, cholera and typhoid Public health departments and officials go back to the 19th century, when there was a greater emphasis on sanitation efforts to prevent spread of diseases such as smallpox, cholera and typhoid, which were rampant at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the end of the century, 40 states had established health departments, which to this day are responsible for water sanitation, tracking the spread of disease, administering vaccinations, furnishing health education, providing screenings for infants and some prenatal care for moms at local clinics, offering family planning services, and tracking and treating sexually transmitted infections, among other things. What we're seeing now is a complete upheaval of the funding going into public health. Josh Michaud, associate director of global health policy at KFF Kimple pointed to measles as a current example of a disease thats spreading fast. When North Carolinas health department detected a case in the state, she said, the department identified and contacted everyone who might have been exposed, helped people get tested, worked with doctors to make sure they knew how to respond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats the legacy of local public health, Michaud said. The federal government cannot decide, This public health program will happen in this state, but not that state, that kind of thing. And cannot declare a national lockdown. The COVID pandemic tested a lot of those boundaries. It really is a state and local responsibility to protect public health. And thats always been the case, since the beginning of our country, Michaud said. And what were seeing now is a complete upheaval of the funding going into public health. A major cut in services Kimple said shes seen recent progress in her state in the support for funding public health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Carolinians viewed our work as highly important to improving health and well-being in the state, and appreciated the local presence, the reliable information, the role in prevention and efforts to protect, in particular, vulnerable communities, she said. Similarly, Edney said that Mississippi state lawmakers were showing more support, despite some setbacks in 2016 and 2017. New federal cuts could throw a wrench in the health departments economic plans and its ability to reach small communities. Now the federal rug is being pulled out from under us, he said. Edney said he expects the federal share of his departments public health funding to fall from its current 65% to around 50%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Edney said hes been trying to strengthen Mississippi health departments longevity by diversifying its revenue streams by, for example, accepting private donations. The state will not stop doing its core work, he said, regardless of federal funding. Were not going to cut back on services at the county health department, because what we do now is all mission critical, Edney said. Stateline reporter Shalina Chatlani can be reached at schatlani@stateline.org. Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. AUSTIN, Texas (KETK) State Representative Cody Harris (R-Palestine) filed four Texas house bills during a special legislative session in Austin on Monday to address the groundwater situation affecting Texas. Lawmakers to hear debate over massive groundwater extraction in East Texas Harris took to Facebook to say the following four new house bills will ensure the long-term viability of our precious groundwater across the state of Texas- not just East Texas alone. HB 215 Harris said this bill looks to change the rule of capture and create liability on anyone that pumps over 25,000 gallons of water per day. HB 216 This bill states that a groundwater conservation district cannot approve an application for a water well if the production and export of all the applied wells total more than five percent of the available groundwater for the conservation district, according to Harris. HB 217 Harris said the bill provides liability protection for groundwater conservation districts and allows them to deny a permit based on long term damage caused to the aquifer. HB 218 This bill requires two-thirds of surrounding groundwater districts to approve an export permit. This action would relieve groundwater districts from making the decisions on their own, according to Harris. You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. Participants take part in the Out of the Darkness Walk for suicide prevention last year in Chicago. A new report found that only 12 states have laws establishing suicide prevention offices or coordinators, and just 11 have task forces or committees dedicated to suicide prevention efforts. (Photo by Barry Brecheisen/Getty Images for American Foundation for Suicide Prevention) Only a dozen states have laws establishing suicide prevention offices or coordinators, and just 11 have task forces or committees dedicated to suicide prevention efforts, according to a new report. The report comes amid sweeping cuts at federal agencies that offer mental health support. They include significant slashes in staffing and funding at the nations largest mental health and substance use agency, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. wants to fold SAMHSA into his new Administration for a Healthy America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Released last week, the report was conducted by the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials with support from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The analysis is part of an online resource breaking down details of suicide prevention efforts at the state level. As of Jan. 1, just a dozen states had offices or state coordinators focused on suicide prevention: Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Vermont and Virginia. Some states have these offices mandated by law and others were established through executive orders. Eleven states (Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Oregon, Utah and Washington) plus Puerto Rico have laws requiring a task force, commission or advisory group focused on suicide prevention. The report notes prevention efforts are most effective when they are focused on higher-risk populations, areas, age groups and occupations. Suicide risk is higher among rural residents, older adults, American Indian and Alaska Native people, people with disabilities, veterans and groups that identify with a sexual minority. The federal administration recently pulled the plug on LGBTQ+ specialized supports under the national suicide hotline, 988. About 60% of states 29 states and Washington, D.C. have laws that establish some form of fatality review committees that specifically include suicide deaths in reviews. Areas of focus varied among the states. Some had statewide teams and others were on the local level, according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report notes that another 11 states assign prevention responsibilities within other offices. Minnesota law, for example, assigns such tasks to the state commissioner of health, rather than toward a special suicide prevention office or coordinator. In 2023, the nation saw 49,000 deaths by suicide, according to the CDC. Firearms are involved in more than half of suicides. Stateline reporter Nada Hassanein can be reached at nhassanein@stateline.org. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Participants take part in the Out of the Darkness Walk for suicide prevention last year in Chicago. A new report found that only 12 states have laws establishing suicide prevention offices or coordinators, and just 11 have task forces or committees dedicated to suicide prevention efforts. (Photo by Barry Brecheisen/Getty Images for American Foundation for Suicide Prevention) Only a dozen states have laws establishing suicide prevention offices or coordinators, and just 11 have task forces or committees dedicated to suicide prevention efforts, according to a new report. The report comes amid sweeping cuts at federal agencies that offer mental health support. They include significant slashes in staffing and funding at the nations largest mental health and substance use agency, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. wants to fold SAMHSA into his new Administration for a Healthy America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Released last week, the report was conducted by the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials with support from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The analysis is part of an online resource breaking down details of suicide prevention efforts at the state level. As of Jan. 1, just a dozen states had offices or state coordinators focused on suicide prevention: Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Vermont and Virginia. Some states have these offices mandated by law and others were established through executive orders. Eleven states (Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Oregon, Utah and Washington) plus Puerto Rico have laws requiring a task force, commission or advisory group focused on suicide prevention. The report notes prevention efforts are most effective when they are focused on higher-risk populations, areas, age groups and occupations. Suicide risk is higher among rural residents, older adults, American Indian and Alaska Native people, people with disabilities, veterans and groups that identify with a sexual minority. The federal administration recently pulled the plug on LGBTQ+ specialized supports under the national suicide hotline, 988. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 60% of states 29 states and Washington, D.C. have laws that establish some form of fatality review committees that specifically include suicide deaths in reviews. Areas of focus varied among the states. Some had statewide teams and others were on the local level, according to the report. The report notes that another 11 states assign prevention responsibilities within other offices. Minnesota law, for example, assigns such tasks to the state commissioner of health, rather than toward a special suicide prevention office or coordinator. In 2023, the nation saw 49,000 deaths by suicide, according to the CDC. Firearms are involved in more than half of suicides. Stateline reporter Nada Hassanein can be reached at nhassanein@stateline.org. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Ryan Walters holds a press conference on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, to address reports that nude women were seen on a television in his office. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice) OKLAHOMA CITY State Superintendent Ryan Walters on Tuesday suggested Oklahomas governor was behind allegations that pictures of nude women were seen on his office television. He insisted that an investigation had cleared him of wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without citing any evidence, Walters implied that fellow Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt had encouraged state Board of Education members to fabricate claims that they saw nude women on his television during the closed door meeting last week. The governor needs to answer the questions, Walters said during a brief, hastily called press conference at the Capitol in which he only took a few questions. Did he tell these board members to come in here and do this? Did you coordinate with them afterwards to set all this up after the fact when you couldnt disrupt the meeting? He said he met Monday with the Oklahoma County Sheriffs Office, and that they concluded none of his devices were connected to the television. The Oklahoma County Sheriffs Office said that the probe into what happened during an State Department of Education executive session was in its early stages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No, we have not cleared him, said Aaron Brilbeck, a spokesman for the Oklahoma County Sheriffs Office. Yes, our investigation is ongoing. This is in its infancy. We dont just do an investigation in an hour and a half. Stitts office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Stitt appointed board members Becky Carson and Ryan Deatherage, who last week told The Oklahoman and NonDoc that they had seen the women on the television screen, which was behind Walters back. Carson told the media outlets that she asked Walters to turn it off, which he did. Stitt recently shook up the board, replacing three members after he said there was too much political drama. Some of the new board members have openly questioned Walters policy ideas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deatherage, when contacted Tuesday, declined to answer questions but said a statement would be put out soon. Carson could not be reached for comment. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services asked Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson to investigate after Carson filed a complaint, records show. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services did not return a phone call seeking comment or respond to a request for a copy of Carsons complaint. Walters said his office television is hooked up to cable, not any of his electronic devices. These board members decided to construct a lie to destroy my character again, Walters said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the board members are attempting to stop education reform. Walters also lashed out at the teachers union and the news media. Those individuals that tried to assassinate my character and print and publish things that are demonstrably false and provably false will be hearing from us and all of Oklahomans very, very soon, Walters said. Janelle Stecklein contributed to this report. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Kansas state Rep. Mari-Lynn Poskin speaks with attendees at the Kansas House Democrats Fight Back event in Pittsburg, Kan., in July. Statehouse Democrats across the country are aiming to link their Republican counterparts to President Donald Trumps massive tax and spending cuts package. (Jonathan Shorman/Stateline) PITTSBURG, Kan. Amid a summer swelter last week, more than 80 people crowded into a trendy gastropub in downtown Pittsburg, Kansas, for cold drinks and hot talk. The subject? Democrats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After disappointing results in November, Kansas state House Democrats are touring the Republican-leaning state, trying to improve relationships and set the stage for a comeback. Pittsburg, a college town of 20,500 in the southeastern corner of the state, elected a Democratic state representative as recently as 2018 before choosing a Republican in the past three elections. Your guyss messaging sucks, local resident Justin Mcelwain told a panel of state Democratic lawmakers during the Q&A portion of the town hall-style event last Thursday, adding that when it comes to getting their points across, Democrats are not even in the same sphere as the right wing. Earlier, Mcelwain had raised his hand along with a handful of others to indicate he had never before attended a political event. During a brief interview, he described his political views as so far to the left that guns are cool again. What Democrats need to do, he said, is repeatedly emphasize the effects of President Donald Trumps and Republicans policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They need to drive it home and hold on to that forever that your life, over the next five, 10 years or whatever, all the decline in your quality of life is a direct result of the Republican Party, Mcelwain said. Some state-level Democrats believe Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act provides a perfect opening. Trump signed the massive tax cuts and spending legislation into law on Independence Day. The sweeping measure cuts more than $1 trillion from Medicaid, the safety net insurance program funded jointly by the federal government and states. It slashes spending on food assistance and green energy programs and cuts taxes in a way that overwhelmingly benefits the wealthiest earners. In Kansas and a majority of states, Republicans dominate the legislature, with many increasingly tying themselves to the Make America Great Again movement. As Democrats search for a path back to power, both at the federal and state levels, they are seizing on Trumps signature legislation six months into his second term as a major rallying cry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lets not even get started about the one big beautiful awful bill, Kansas state House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard told the Pittsburg crowd. A few audience members groaned in agreement. Trumps sweeping law is an opportunity, Kansas Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, who chairs the Democratic Governors Association, said in an interview with Stateline. Portions of it are so obviously cruel and detrimental to so many people, she said. Reductions to Medicaid and food assistance, for example, will cut across party lines. They need to drive it home and hold on to that forever that all the decline in your quality of life is a direct result of the Republican Party. Justin Mcelwain, Pittsburg, Kan., resident Kelly said Republicans already appear worried about the political consequences: She pointed to efforts by U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, a Missouri Republican, to repeal some of the federal cuts to the safety net health program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I do think that theyre very concerned, as they should be, Kelly said. And I hope that the public stays engaged, stays informed, continues to protest as they have been, and that those of us in positions to educate and inform take that role very seriously. Not a bumper sticker bill The laws enactment comes as Democrats have been searching for a compelling message. Theyre trying to connect with disaffected voters after Trump and Republicans attacked the party last year as elitist and out of touch, and theyre highlighting Trumps actions since his inauguration. But amid a daily barrage of Trump developments, the party has been pulled in a multitude of directions spotlighting everything from violent immigration raids to Trumps connections to convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Earlier this month, the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, which works to elect Democrats at the state level, launched ads in several states with upcoming competitive legislative races slamming Republicans for selling us out with Trumps tax and spending law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group is focusing heavily on New Jersey and Virginia, the two states with legislative and gubernatorial races in the fall. In 2026, it will target swing states including Michigan and Wisconsin, but also divided states, such as Kansas, North Carolina and Pennsylvania, that have Democratic governors but Republican control of one or both legislative chambers. Nevada Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager, a board member of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, said Republicans have failed to live up to the rhetoric of the 2024 race that focused largely on lowering costs, presenting a big opportunity for his party. In his state, Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo is expected to face one of the nations most competitive gubernatorial races next year. Yeager said Nevada Democrats will tell voters about the complicity of Republicans at the state level and share a positive vision of Democratic priorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think Democrats in Nevada and nationwide are a little more clear-eyed in terms of what our objective is and should be, and thats just to help people with the day-to-day issues that they face, he said. State Democrats may also look to a GOP strategy from 15 years ago. Chris Cooper, a professor of political science and public affairs at Western Carolina University, wondered whether Democrats would employ Trumps big, beautiful law against Republicans the way the GOP used President Barack Obamas signature health care law against his allies. Is this going to become the Republican version of Obamacare? Cooper asked. Despite proving popular over time, the passage of the Affordable Care Act was initially a political albatross for Democrats, who lost hundreds of seats in statehouses in 2010, Cooper said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But at hundreds of pages long, Trumps federal legislation will require lots of education for voters to fully appreciate the implications to taxes, social services and immigration. And many of the deepest cuts wont be felt for months or years, with Republicans setting up the cuts to go into effect after the midterm elections. Its not a bumper sticker bill, Cooper said. The Democratic strategy cant just be, Remember what happened, he said. First they have to teach people what happened, and then they have to work to assign blame, and then they have to work to mobilize that blame to their benefit. Kansas Democratic state Rep. Kirk Haskins, gesturing, speaks to a crowd of more than 80 people in Pittsburg, Kan. (Jonathan Shorman/Stateline) In Pennsylvania, officials expect more than 300,000 residents to lose health coverage through Medicaid cuts and over 140,000 to lose food assistance. Pennsylvania Democratic state Sen. Vincent Hughes said Republicans will be held accountable for that devastation in next years state races. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The very loud silence coming from Republican elected officials, MAGA elected officials, Trump-loving elected officials all across the country, that will be spoken about, that will be talked about, because their silence screamed volumes, Hughes said. They chose to look the other way, knowing the kind of damage this would do. For their part, national Republicans have sought to frame the law as a major win because of its deep tax cuts and huge influx of spending on immigration enforcement. At the state level, the messaging has so far been more mixed. In May, 20 of the nations 27 GOP governors signed a letter in support of the bill. The Republican Legislative Campaign Committee, the partys state committee, did not respond to Statelines requests for comment. Michigan state Sen. Aric Nesbitt, former chair of the committee, said that Democrats will feel the consequences next year of opposing Trumps bill. The minority leader of Michigans state Senate, Nesbitt is running to be the GOPs nominee for governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats walked the political plank by voting for a $2,000 tax increase on working families, for allowing illegal immigrants to continue collecting Medicaid, against eliminating taxes on tips, overtime & Social security benefits, for [former President Joe] Bidens war on American energy & against enforcing our immigration laws, he wrote in a statement to Stateline. Democrats fight back This summer, Kansas House Democrats have embarked on a Fight Back tour across the state, visiting communities where the party has struggled in recent years. Were going to places that unless theres someone representing them as a Democrat, were being defined by cable news as to what a Democrat is, Woodard, the Kansas House minority leader, told Stateline. The headquarters of the Crawford County Democratic Party in downtown Pittsburg, Kan. (Jonathan Shorman/Stateline) In Pittsburg, some Democrats said they are unsure whether the federal tax and spending law will help shake loose Republicans grip locally. Janice Arthur, a lifelong Democrat who retired after working in the customer service industry, refused to say Trumps name as she spoke about the legislation, declaring theres nothing about the current occupant of the White House that I agree with or I appreciate. When asked whether the law would cause her Republican friends and neighbors to vote for Democrats, she voiced uncertainty. I dont know, she said. Pittsburg was historically a Democratic stronghold in Republican-leaning Kansas. The party lost substantial ground locally over the past two decades, until the last Democratic state representative failed to win reelection in 2020. Last year, the citys Democratic candidate for the state House received just 40% of the vote. But these are the kinds of races Kansas Democrats will have to win if they want to break the Republican supermajority in the state legislature and, one day, take control of a chamber something that hasnt happened since the 1990s. Democrats need to flip five seats in 2026 to end the Republicans veto-proof majority in the House. Emily Walters, who chairs the Crawford County Democratic Party, which includes Pittsburg, said many voters locally cast ballots for the first time last year, enthusiastic about what she called the image they have of Trump. They voted Republican down the ballot, she said. My suspicion is they are being quickly disillusioned by the reality of Donald Trump, Walters said. And without that artificial buoyancy, I think that Crawford County has a very good shot of reverting to its blue self. Editors note: This story has been updated to correct Steve Yeagers title. Stateline reporter Jonathan Shorman can be reached at jshorman@stateline.org. Stateline reporter Kevin Hardy can be reached at khardy@stateline.org. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE I think Democrats in Nevada and nationwide are a little more clear-eyed in terms of what our objective is and should be, and thats just to help people with the day-to-day issues that they face, said Nevada Democratic Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager.. PITTSBURG, Kan. Amid a summer swelter last week, more than 80 people crowded into a trendy gastropub in downtown Pittsburg, Kansas, for cold drinks and hot talk. The subject? Democrats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After disappointing results in November, Kansas state House Democrats are touring the Republican-leaning state, trying to improve relationships and set the stage for a comeback. Pittsburg, a college town of 20,500 in the southeastern corner of the state, elected a Democratic state representative as recently as 2018 before choosing a Republican in the past three elections. Your guyss messaging sucks, local resident Justin Mcelwain told a panel of state Democratic lawmakers during the Q&A portion of the town hall-style event last Thursday, adding that when it comes to getting their points across, Democrats are not even in the same sphere as the right wing. Earlier, Mcelwain had raised his hand along with a handful of others to indicate he had never before attended a political event. During a brief interview, he described his political views as so far to the left that guns are cool again. What Democrats need to do, he said, is repeatedly emphasize the effects of President Donald Trumps and Republicans policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They need to drive it home and hold on to that forever that your life, over the next five, 10 years or whatever, all the decline in your quality of life is a direct result of the Republican Party, Mcelwain said. Some state-level Democrats believe Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act provides a perfect opening. Trump signed the massive tax cuts and spending legislation into law on Independence Day. The sweeping measure cuts more than $1 trillion from Medicaid, the safety net insurance program funded jointly by the federal government and states. It slashes spending on food assistance and green energy programs and cuts taxes in a way that overwhelmingly benefits the wealthiest earners. In Kansas and a majority of states, Republicans dominate the legislature, with many increasingly tying themselves to the Make America Great Again movement. As Democrats search for a path back to power, both at the federal and state levels, they are seizing on Trumps signature legislation six months into his second term as a major rallying cry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lets not even get started about the one big beautiful awful bill, Kansas state House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard told the Pittsburg crowd. A few audience members groaned in agreement. Trumps sweeping law is an opportunity, Kansas Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, who chairs the Democratic Governors Association, said in an interview with Stateline. Portions of it are so obviously cruel and detrimental to so many people, she said. Reductions to Medicaid and food assistance, for example, will cut across party lines. Kelly said Republicans already appear worried about the political consequences: She pointed to efforts by U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, a Missouri Republican, to repeal some of the federal cuts to the safety net health program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I do think that theyre very concerned, as they should be, Kelly said. And I hope that the public stays engaged, stays informed, continues to protest as they have been, and that those of us in positions to educate and inform take that role very seriously. Not a bumper sticker bill The laws enactment comes as Democrats have been searching for a compelling message. Theyre trying to connect with disaffected voters after Trump and Republicans attacked the party last year as elitist and out of touch, and theyre highlighting Trumps actions since his inauguration. But amid a daily barrage of Trump developments, the party has been pulled in a multitude of directions spotlighting everything from violent immigration raids to Trumps connections to convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Earlier this month, the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, which works to elect Democrats at the state level, launched ads in several states with upcoming competitive legislative races slamming Republicans for selling us out with Trumps tax and spending law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group is focusing heavily on New Jersey and Virginia, the two states with legislative and gubernatorial races in the fall. In 2026, it will target swing states including Michigan and Wisconsin, but also divided states, such as Kansas, North Carolina and Pennsylvania, that have Democratic governors but Republican control of one or both legislative chambers. Nevada Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager, a board member of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, said Republicans have failed to live up to the rhetoric of the 2024 race that focused largely on lowering costs, presenting a big opportunity for his party. In his state, Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo is expected to face one of the nations most competitive gubernatorial races next year. Yeager said Nevada Democrats will tell voters about the complicity of Republicans at the state level and share a positive vision of Democratic priorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think Democrats in Nevada and nationwide are a little more clear-eyed in terms of what our objective is and should be, and thats just to help people with the day-to-day issues that they face, he said. State Democrats may also look to a GOP strategy from 15 years ago. Chris Cooper, a professor of political science and public affairs at Western Carolina University, wondered whether Democrats would employ Trumps big, beautiful law against Republicans the way the GOP used President Barack Obamas signature health care law against his allies. Is this going to become the Republican version of Obamacare? Cooper asked. Despite proving popular over time, the passage of the Affordable Care Act was initially a political albatross for Democrats, who lost hundreds of seats in statehouses in 2010, Cooper said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But at hundreds of pages long, Trumps federal legislation will require lots of education for voters to fully appreciate the implications to taxes, social services and immigration. And many of the deepest cuts wont be felt for months or years, with Republicans setting up the cuts to go into effect after the midterm elections. Its not a bumper sticker bill, Cooper said. The Democratic strategy cant just be, Remember what happened, he said. First they have to teach people what happened, and then they have to work to assign blame, and then they have to work to mobilize that blame to their benefit. In Pennsylvania, officials expect more than 300,000 residents to lose health coverage through Medicaid cuts and over 140,000 to lose food assistance. Pennsylvania Democratic state Sen. Vincent Hughes said Republicans will be held accountable for that devastation in next years state races. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The very loud silence coming from Republican elected officials, MAGA elected officials, Trump-loving elected officials all across the country, that will be spoken about, that will be talked about, because their silence screamed volumes, Hughes said. They chose to look the other way, knowing the kind of damage this would do. For their part, national Republicans have sought to frame the law as a major win because of its deep tax cuts and huge influx of spending on immigration enforcement. At the state level, the messaging has so far been more mixed. In May, 20 of the nations 27 GOP governors signed a letter in support of the bill. The Republican Legislative Campaign Committee, the partys state committee, did not respond to Statelines requests for comment. Michigan state Sen. Aric Nesbitt, former chair of the committee, said that Democrats will feel the consequences next year of opposing Trumps bill. The minority leader of Michigans state Senate, Nesbitt is running to be the GOPs nominee for governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats walked the political plank by voting for a $2,000 tax increase on working families, for allowing illegal immigrants to continue collecting Medicaid, against eliminating taxes on tips, overtime & Social security benefits, for [former President Joe] Bidens war on American energy & against enforcing our immigration laws, he wrote in a statement to Stateline. Democrats fight back This summer, Kansas House Democrats have embarked on a Fight Back tour across the state, visiting communities where the party has struggled in recent years. Were going to places that unless theres someone representing them as a Democrat, were being defined by cable news as to what a Democrat is, Woodard, the Kansas House minority leader, told Stateline. In Pittsburg, some Democrats said they are unsure whether the federal tax and spending law will help shake loose Republicans grip locally. Janice Arthur, a lifelong Democrat who retired after working in the customer service industry, refused to say Trumps name as she spoke about the legislation, declaring theres nothing about the current occupant of the White House that I agree with or I appreciate. When asked whether the law would cause her Republican friends and neighbors to vote for Democrats, she voiced uncertainty. I dont know, she said. Pittsburg was historically a Democratic stronghold in Republican-leaning Kansas. The party lost substantial ground locally over the past two decades, until the last Democratic state representative failed to win reelection in 2020. Last year, the citys Democratic candidate for the state House received just 40% of the vote. But these are the kinds of races Kansas Democrats will have to win if they want to break the Republican supermajority in the state legislature and, one day, take control of a chamber something that hasnt happened since the 1990s. Democrats need to flip five seats in 2026 to end the Republicans veto-proof majority in the House. Emily Walters, who chairs the Crawford County Democratic Party, which includes Pittsburg, said many voters locally cast ballots for the first time last year, enthusiastic about what she called the image they have of Trump. They voted Republican down the ballot, she said. My suspicion is they are being quickly disillusioned by the reality of Donald Trump, Walters said. And without that artificial buoyancy, I think that Crawford County has a very good shot of reverting to its blue self. Jul. 29PITTSBURG, Kan. Amid a summer swelter last week, more than 80 people crowded into a trendy gastropub in downtown Pittsburg, Kansas, for cold drinks and hot talk. The subject? Democrats. After disappointing results in November, Kansas state House Democrats are touring the Republican-leaning state, trying to improve relationships and set the stage for a comeback. Pittsburg, a college town of 20,500 in the southeastern corner of the state, elected a Democratic state representative as recently as 2018 before choosing a Republican in the past three elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Your guys's messaging sucks," local resident Justin Mcelwain told a panel of state Democratic lawmakers during the Q&A portion of the town hall-style event last Thursday, adding that when it comes to getting their points across, Democrats "are not even in the same sphere as the right wing." Earlier, Mcelwain had raised his hand along with a handful of others to indicate he had never before attended a political event. During a brief interview, he described his political views as "so far to the left that guns are cool again." What Democrats need to do, he said, is repeatedly emphasize the effects of President Donald Trump's and Republicans' policies. "They need to drive it home and hold on to that forever that your life, over the next five, 10 years or whatever, all the decline in your quality of life is a direct result of the Republican Party," Mcelwain said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some state-level Democrats believe Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act provides a perfect opening. Trump signed the massive tax cuts and spending legislation into law on Independence Day. The sweeping measure cuts more than $1 trillion from Medicaid, the safety net insurance program funded jointly by the federal government and states. It slashes spending on food assistance and green energy programs and cuts taxes in a way that overwhelmingly benefits the wealthiest earners. In Kansas and a majority of states, Republicans dominate the legislature, with many increasingly tying themselves to the Make America Great Again movement. As Democrats search for a path back to power, both at the federal and state levels, they are seizing on Trump's signature legislation six months into his second term as a major rallying cry. "Let's not even get started about the one big beautiful awful bill," Kansas state House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard told the Pittsburg crowd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A few audience members groaned in agreement. Trump's sweeping law is an opportunity, Kansas Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, who chairs the Democratic Governors Association, said in an interview with Stateline. Portions of it "are so obviously cruel and detrimental to so many people," she said. Reductions to Medicaid and food assistance, for example, will cut across party lines. They need to drive it home and hold on to that forever that ... all the decline in your quality of life is a direct result of the Republican Party. Justin Mcelwain, Pittsburg, Kan., resident Kelly said Republicans already appear worried about the political consequences: She pointed to efforts by U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, a Missouri Republican, to repeal some of the federal cuts to the safety net health program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I do think that they're very concerned, as they should be," Kelly said. "And I hope that the public stays engaged, stays informed, continues to protest as they have been, and that those of us in positions to educate and inform take that role very seriously." 'Not a bumper sticker bill' The law's enactment comes as Democrats have been searching for a compelling message. They're trying to connect with disaffected voters after Trump and Republicans attacked the party last year as elitist and out of touch, and they're highlighting Trump's actions since his inauguration. But amid a daily barrage of Trump developments, the party has been pulled in a multitude of directions spotlighting everything from violent immigration raids to Trump's connections to convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, which works to elect Democrats at the state level, launched ads in several states with upcoming competitive legislative races slamming Republicans "for selling us out" with Trump's tax and spending law. The group is focusing heavily on New Jersey and Virginia, the two states with legislative and gubernatorial races in the fall. In 2026, it will target swing states including Michigan and Wisconsin, but also divided states, such as Kansas, North Carolina and Pennsylvania, that have Democratic governors but Republican control of one or both legislative chambers. Nevada Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager, a board member of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, said Republicans have failed to live up to the rhetoric of the 2024 race that focused largely on lowering costs, presenting a "big opportunity" for his party. In his state, Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo is expected to face one of the nation's most competitive gubernatorial races next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yeager said Nevada Democrats will tell voters about the "complicity" of Republicans at the state level and share a positive vision of Democratic priorities. "I think Democrats in Nevada and nationwide are a little more clear-eyed in terms of what our objective is and should be, and that's just to help people with the day-to-day issues that they face," he said. State Democrats may also look to a GOP strategy from 15 years ago. Chris Cooper, a professor of political science and public affairs at Western Carolina University, wondered whether Democrats would employ Trump's "big, beautiful" law against Republicans the way the GOP used President Barack Obama's signature health care law against his allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Is this going to become the Republican version of Obamacare?" Cooper asked. Despite proving popular over time, the passage of the Affordable Care Act was initially a political albatross for Democrats, who lost hundreds of seats in statehouses in 2010, Cooper said. But at hundreds of pages long, Trump's federal legislation will require lots of education for voters to fully appreciate the implications to taxes, social services and immigration. And many of the deepest cuts won't be felt for months or years, with Republicans setting up the cuts to go into effect after the midterm elections. "It's not a bumper sticker bill," Cooper said. "The Democratic strategy can't just be, 'Remember what happened,'" he said. "First they have to teach people what happened, and then they have to work to assign blame, and then they have to work to mobilize that blame to their benefit." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas Democrat state Rep. Kirk Haskins, gesturing, speaks to a crowd. Kansas Democratic state Rep. Kirk Haskins, gesturing, speaks to a crowd of more than 80 people in Pittsburg, Kan. (Jonathan Shorman/Stateline) In Pennsylvania, officials expect more than 300,000 residents to lose health coverage through Medicaid cuts and over 140,000 to lose food assistance. Pennsylvania Democratic state Sen. Vincent Hughes said Republicans will be held accountable for that devastation in next year's state races. "The very loud silence coming from Republican elected officials, MAGA elected officials, Trump-loving elected officials all across the country, that will be spoken about, that will be talked about, because their silence screamed volumes," Hughes said. "They chose to look the other way, knowing the kind of damage this would do." For their part, national Republicans have sought to frame the law as a major win because of its deep tax cuts and huge influx of spending on immigration enforcement. At the state level, the messaging has so far been more mixed. In May, 20 of the nation's 27 GOP governors signed a letter in support of the bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Republican Legislative Campaign Committee, the party's state committee, did not respond to Stateline's requests for comment. Michigan state Sen. Aric Nesbitt, former chair of the committee, said that Democrats "will feel the consequences next year" of opposing Trump's bill. The minority leader of Michigan's state Senate, Nesbitt is running to be the GOP's nominee for governor. "Democrats walked the political plank by voting for a $2,000 tax increase on working families, for allowing illegal immigrants to continue collecting Medicaid, against eliminating taxes on tips, overtime & Social security benefits, for [former President Joe] Biden's war on American energy & against enforcing our immigration laws," he wrote in a statement to Stateline. Democrats 'fight back' This summer, Kansas House Democrats have embarked on a "Fight Back" tour across the state, visiting communities where the party has struggled in recent years. "We're going to places that unless there's someone representing them as a Democrat, we're being defined by cable news as to what a Democrat is," Woodard, the Kansas House minority leader, told Stateline. The headquarters of the Crawford County Democratic Party in downtown Pittsburg, Kan. The headquarters of the Crawford County Democratic Party in downtown Pittsburg, Kan. (Jonathan Shorman/Stateline) In Pittsburg, some Democrats said they are unsure whether the federal tax and spending law will help shake loose Republicans' grip locally. Janice Arthur, a lifelong Democrat who retired after working in the customer service industry, refused to say Trump's name as she spoke about the legislation, declaring there's "nothing about the current occupant of the White House that I agree with or I appreciate." When asked whether the law would cause her Republican friends and neighbors to vote for Democrats, she voiced uncertainty. "I don't know," she said. Pittsburg was historically a Democratic stronghold in Republican-leaning Kansas. The party lost substantial ground locally over the past two decades, until the last Democratic state representative failed to win reelection in 2020. Last year, the city's Democratic candidate for the state House received just 40% of the vote. But these are the kinds of races Kansas Democrats will have to win if they want to break the Republican supermajority in the state legislature and, one day, take control of a chamber something that hasn't happened since the 1990s. Democrats need to flip five seats in 2026 to end the Republicans' veto-proof majority in the House. Emily Walters, who chairs the Crawford County Democratic Party, which includes Pittsburg, said many voters locally cast ballots for the first time last year, enthusiastic about what she called "the image" they have of Trump. They voted Republican down the ballot, she said. "My suspicion is ... they are being quickly disillusioned by the reality of Donald Trump," Walters said. "And without that artificial buoyancy, I think that Crawford County has a very good shot of reverting to its blue self." Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct Steve Yeager's title. Stateline reporter Jonathan Shorman can be reached at [email protected]. Stateline reporter Kevin Hardy can be reached at [email protected]. YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE. Twenty-one Democratic attorneys general are fighting efforts by the Trump administration to potentially use Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program data in its immigration crackdown. In a lawsuit announced on Monday, the officials are challenging demands by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that states release personal data about SNAP recipients, including Social Security numbers, home addressesand their immigration status by July 30. That demand comes as Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Todd Lyons has said that the Trump administration intends to use data from social programs like Medicaid to gather intelligence on undocumented immigrants and track people down. USDA, meanwhile, has claimed that its request for personal data is aimed at verifying applicants eligibility for SNAP, also known as food stamps, and reducing fraud and abuse in the program. We will not comment on pending litigation, a USDA spokesperson said in response to the lawsuit, while referring HuffPost to the Justice Department. A DOJ spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Democratic AGs behind the suit argue that these personal data requests will deter immigrants from applying for social programs and be used to identify undocumented people for enforcement actions as Trump continues to ramp up deportations. There are roughly forty million people who use SNAP benefits in the U.S., and non-citizen parents are able to apply for benefits for their children who are citizens. The AGs note that the USDAs efforts are a violation of privacy laws and constitutional protections that recipients of these programs are entitled to. Their lawsuit seeks to prevent the Trump administration from withholding SNAP funding for states that dont comply with these data requests a threat that the AGs say USDA has previously made. President Trump continues to weaponize private and sensitive personal information not to root out fraud, but to create a culture of fear where people are unwilling to apply for essential services, California Attorney General Rob Bonta said Monday in a statement.Were talking about kids not getting school lunch; fire victims not accessing emergency services; and other devastating, and deadly, consequences. This suit adds to legal pushback on the administrations attempts to access sensitive data: Already, its made moves to use Medicaid data to identify undocumented immigrants, which has prompted another lawsuit from Democratic AGs.The administration is also using IRS data as another way to find undocumented people; Democratic officials warn that SNAP data could be next. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This administration is attempting to use this program as a tool in their cruel and chaotic targeting of immigrants, New York Attorney General Letitia James told reporters. It is outrageous. It is unacceptable. Related... This summer has seen dozens of heatwaves bake Europe, creating prime conditions for wildfires to break out. An area almost the size of Luxembourg has been burnt by blazes so far this year. Experts warn that climate change is exacerbating the situation. If you are planning to travel to wildfire-prone areas this summer, here are some precautions you can take to ensure your safety should an emergency situation occur. Europe battles dozens of wildfires With major outbreaks in Spain, Portugal and deadly blazes in Greece since late June, the burned area is already far above the seasonal norm for Europe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Temperatures soared over 40C in southern France on Monday, prompting the French national weather authority, Meteo-France, to place 12 departments on red alert. Dont be fooled - this isnt normal, its summer. Its not normal, its a nightmare, agricultural climatologist Serge Zaka told broadcaster BFMTV. In Frances Aude department, hundreds of firefighters remained guarding the edges of a massive, deadly blaze that scorched 16,000 hectares last week. Across the English Channel, the UKs Met Office expects the country's fourth heat wave of the summer to peak around 33C in London on Tuesday. On Monday, 60 firefighters were called to tackle a blaze north east of the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Spain, authorities on Monday began the preventive evacuation of several homes in the resort town of Tarifa in the Cadiz region of southern Spain after forest fires advanced towards the region, domestic media reported. According to local reports, some 2,000 people, including beachgoers, vacation resort visitors and locals living near Playa de Atlanterra and Playa de Bolonia, were among those impacted. Related Portugal sent reinforcements to combat three major wildfires on Monday as the country remains on high alert for heat risk after temperatures soared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 650 firefighters, alongside 226 vehicles and six helicopters, were sent to combat a fire in the village of Freches in the district of Trancoso. The blaze, which was fuelled by high temperatures and strong winds, threatened residents from at least four nearby villages. In Bulgaria, temperatures were expected to exceed 40C on Monday at the day's peak, with maximum fire danger alerts in place. Nearly 200 fires have been reported; most have been brought under control, localised and extinguished, but the situation remains very challenging, said Alexander Dzhartov, head of the national fire safety unit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Turkiye, a wildfire in the province of Canakkale, fueled by high temperatures and strong winds, forced authorities to evacuate holiday homes and a university campus and to suspend maritime traffic. In Hungary, Sunday brought a new national high of 39.9C in the southeast, breaking a record set in 1948. Budapest also recorded a city record at 38.7C. Authorities imposed a nationwide fire ban amid extreme heat and drought. How to prepare for a holiday in wildfire-prone destinations this summer A key precautionary measure when visiting wildfire-prone destinations is staying informed of any warnings. Before your trip, research the specific area you're visiting and be aware of the fire danger ratings and local emergency procedures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ensure that your mobile phone is registered to receive emergency alerts. You can do this by going into Settings, followed by Notifications, and Enabling Alerts. Monitor local news, weather forecasts, and fire updates through official channels like emergency apps and websites. If travelling to Greece, for example, register for alerts from the Greek governments Emergency Communication Service. You should also follow @112Greece on X for official updates. The UK government also recommends preparing a grab bag of essentials, including passports and ID cards, mobile phones and chargers, money and bank cards, essential medicine, and insurance documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If there is a heatwave warning during your trip, take precautionary measures like carrying extra drinking water or avoiding high-energy outdoor activities in the middle of the day. Follow local advice about what to do and what not to do during periods of prolonged high temperatures. Older travellers and those with certain health conditions should be especially careful not to exert themselves. If your itinerary involves outdoor adventure, it might be worth asking your travel provider if you can change your plans or dates if a heatwave is expected. Ensure you have the right travel insurance for wildfire coverage When booking travel insurance, make sure you choose a policy that will refund you or entitle you to compensation should wildfires affect your holiday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is particularly important if you choose not to go ahead with your trip, even if the airline, tour operator or accommodation has not cancelled your bookings. This is because, without an official no-go warning from foreign governments, travellers who choose not to go ahead with their trip are unlikely to receive reimbursement or compensation, as this is considered disinclination to travel. Related The vast majority of travel insurance policies will also not cover situations of loss of enjoyment due to wildfires, which includes being unable to leave your hotel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Travellers can only expect refunds if their flights or accommodation are cancelled by airlines, providers or tour companies. Some insurance policies include trip disruption or natural disaster cover, which usually applies to wildfire-related issues, but not every company will offer this, so make sure you have the correct insurance before you leave. Governor Josh Stein urged Republicans to pass a budget in a press conference on July 29, 2025. (Photo: Brandon Kingdollar/NC Newsline) As Republicans in the General Assembly geared up to override several of his vetoes Tuesday, Governor Josh Stein made a plea: stay in town and pass a budget. Speaking to reporters alongside public servants and North Carolina residents impacted by funding shortfalls, Stein urged lawmakers to enact a budget that invests in the people of North Carolina, with a focus on increasing pay for teachers and law enforcement officers, expanding the Department of Motor Vehicles to improve efficiency, and funding rebates to retain expanded Medicaid coverage amid cuts at the federal level. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is past time for this General Assembly to pass a budget that puts the people of North Carolina first, Stein said, noting that the states budget deadline was June 30. They need to pass a sound budget to do what the people of North Carolina sent us here to do: set our state up for success. Soon after the conclusion of the Governors press conference, Raleighs News & Observer reported that House and Senate Republican leaders had reached an agreement on a new budget proposal and would be unveiling it later today. Teachers, law enforcement officers plead for help Among those who joined Stein to advocate on behalf of his budget request were 2025 North Carolina Teacher of the Year Rachel Candaso and Captain Kimberly Lane of the Durham Sheriffs Office, as well as residents who advocated for greater funding for Medicaid and the DMV. Candaso said she has always had to work a side job during her time as a teacher and that other educators she has spoken to have told her that without a raise, they will be unable to remain in the profession as cost of living continues to outpace teacher salaries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is not just about numbers on a page. Its about whether we truly value the people shaping North Carolinas future. Whether we believe every child, whether they are in Swain County or at Parkers Island in our eastern side of the state, deserve a fully supported high-quality educator, Candaso said. Pass a budget that honors our work, invest in our teachers, invest in our 1.5 million students, invest in North Carolinas future. Stein said his budget proposal would raise starting teacher pay to the highest in the Southeast, reinstate Masters pay, and provide a school-supply stipend. He noted that currently, North Carolina teachers pay the second most in the country out of their own pockets for school supplies, and that starting pay is lower than every neighboring state. Durham Sheriffs Office Captain Kimberly Lane said her agency has not been able to retain talented deputies due to insufficient pay. (Photo: Brandon Kingdollar/NC When we do not pay our teachers, when we do not respect our teachers, when we make the teachers pay for the students school supplies out of their already low earnings, we make the teaching profession less appealing to our best and brightest, he said. Lane, the sheriffs office captain, said law enforcement agencies across the state are understaffed, which leads to more officers wanting to leave and further worsening the staffing shortage. In her own agency, she said two highly qualified deputies left in part due to insufficient income, a brain drain she said compromises the efficacy of law enforcement and the safety of North Carolinians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My agency has worked tirelessly to recruit and bring in qualified individuals that want to put their life on the line to serve their community, she said. Yet our efforts are in vain as retirements and natural attrition create vacancies that cannot be filled at the same rate as which they occur. Electric bills, DMV delays, health care access Stein criticized legislators for prioritizing veto overrides over getting a budget done to address the needs of North Carolinians, singling out a bill allowing Duke Energy to raise rates that he said will only worsen the cost-of-living crisis. Instead of taking action on all of these important issues that will make a real difference in peoples lives, the General Assembly is in town today to act on a number of veto overrides, including one that will raise folks power bills precisely when people are struggling with already high bills, Stein said. The legislation could increase residential power bills by $23 billion over the next 25 years. Milltrene Newell, a resident of Louisburg who lives on a fixed income, said her electric bill has shot up from about $250 a month in May to $765 in the most recent bill. Milltrene Newell of Louisburg waves her more recent electric bill, which came in at $765. (Photo: Brandon Kingdollar/ NC Newsline) It is devastating for me, and thats why Im here today, because people on a fixed income cannot pay these expensive electric bills, she said. The last thing we can afford is for the General Assembly to pass this bill that is going to skyrocket the costs in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also speaking were Sarah Morgan, a Durham resident who recounted visiting the DMV six different times trying to update to a Real ID due to inadequate staffing, and Joanna Parker, a Garner resident who described how Medicaid expansion changed her life, allowing her to receive treatment for degenerative disc disease and spotting a pre-cancerous mass she would not have caught otherwise. Some days, the pain was debilitating, but out of pocket expenses for physical therapy and doctors visits were not manageable, Parker said. Then, in December 2023, I was one of more than 270,000 people in North Carolina to automatically be enrolled in Medicaid expansion and suddenly, my world changed. I was able to go to the doctor regularly, go to physical therapy appointments, and get the necessary X-rays and receive medications that allowed me to return to work full-time. Stein called on Republicans to do the work to protect Medicaid expansion in the wake of federal cuts that, due to a state trigger law, are expected to force the programs rollback if no action is taken. He said that 900,000 North Carolinians are at risk of losing health insurance, including both residents covered under expansion as well as many under the traditional Medicaid program. Our entire Medicaid expansion program is at risk if the state legislature does not pass a fix to pay for new administratively burdensome work requirements, Stein said. Passing Medicaid expansion into law was a bipartisan victory for North Carolina. Saving it must be as well. Police and investigators work at a crime scene in Washington, D.C., where two people were shot and killed in May 2025. Research suggests police officers experience about three traumatic events every six months roughly 180 over a 30-year career compared with just one over a lifetime for about half of U.S. adults. (Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images) Police officers may face hundreds of traumatic incidents over the course of their careers, but many still hesitate to seek mental health support when they need it. Despite growing investments in wellness programs by law enforcement agencies across the country, a recent study of just over 100 surveyed officers from the Fargo Police Department in North Dakota found that stigma remains a major barrier to mental health care for officers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The study found that 60% of surveyed officers said most of their peers wouldnt disclose a mental health condition to a colleague, and nearly three-quarters believed officers wouldnt tell a supervisor. Slightly more than half agreed that most officers would expect to face discrimination at work if they disclosed they were experiencing mental illness. Carol Archbold, the studys author and a criminal justice professor at North Dakota State University, said officers may avoid disclosing mental health struggles because doing so also conflicts with societal expectations that they remain strong and unemotional. The nature of [police officers] work really, really makes it difficult and important for them to have services available and for them to actually utilize them, Archbold told Stateline, adding that departments also need to foster a culture in which officers feel comfortable using the support available to them. Departments across the country have expanded access to services like counseling, peer support, therapy, substance use programs, and on-site gyms in response to growing concerns about post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD, depression, and suicide among officers. The Fargo Police Department, for example, hired its first-ever health and wellness coordinator last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the department offers a wide range of mental health-related services and programs, the study found that relatively few officers are using them. Eighty-four percent of surveyed officers were aware of the departments new health and wellness coordinator, but only 22 had interacted with them, and 19 found the interaction helpful. About 68% knew about the Employee Assistance Program; 20 had used it, with 17 reporting it was helpful. Awareness of the peer support program was higher at 93%, yet only 42 officers had used it, and 36 said it was helpful. Still, stigma and fears about career repercussions may discourage some officers from using such services. About half of all U.S. adults will experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetimes, although most will not develop PTSD, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. For police officers, the rate of exposure is significantly higher. Research suggests police officers may experience about three traumatic events every six months, or roughly 180 over a 30-year career. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Repeated exposure to traumatic events has been linked to a wide range of health problems in first responders, including poor sleep quality, depression, alcohol misuse, and a heightened risk of PTSD. In the Fargo survey, 53% of officers agreed that most police officers view being treated for a mental illness as a sign of personal weakness and would not seek professional help if they were experiencing mental health problems. Forty percent believed that having a history of mental illness would harm an officers chances for promotion. Many officers disagreed with the idea that mental illness would lead to mistrust or social exclusion among peers. Sixty-four percent of officers disagreed with statements suggesting that most officers would avoid partnering with or think less of a colleague who had experienced a mental illness. While agencies have expanded mental health resources in recent years, the studys findings suggest that organizational culture remains a key factor in whether officers feel comfortable using those services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. law enforcement system includes more than 17,000 federal, state, county, and local agencies. While smaller and rural departments may be less likely to offer robust mental health services, Archbold said that does not reflect a lack of interest from leadership. Many departments regardless of size struggle to meet officer wellness needs within existing budgets and often must seek additional funding to support mental health programs. Its likely that police chiefs would like to have these services available, but they just dont have the money to be able to do that to provide those services, Archbold said. This story first appeared in Stateline, part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. Follow Stateline on Facebook and X. Stateline reporter Amanda Hernandez can be reached at ahernandez@stateline.org. Police and Investigators work at the crime scene, where two Israeli Embassy staff members were killed yesterday evening outside an event at the Capital Jewish Museum, on May 22, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images) Police officers may face hundreds of traumatic incidents over the course of their careers, but many still hesitate to seek mental health support when they need it. Despite growing investments in wellness programs by law enforcement agencies across the country, a recent study of just over 100 surveyed officers from the Fargo Police Department in North Dakota found that stigma remains a major barrier to mental health care for officers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The study found that 60% of surveyed officers said most of their peers wouldnt disclose a mental health condition to a colleague, and nearly three-quarters believed officers wouldnt tell a supervisor. Slightly more than half agreed that most officers would expect to face discrimination at work if they disclosed they were experiencing mental illness. Carol Archbold, the studys author and a criminal justice professor at North Dakota State University, said officers may avoid disclosing mental health struggles because doing so also conflicts with societal expectations that they remain strong and unemotional. The nature of [police officers] work really, really makes it difficult and important for them to have services available and for them to actually utilize them, Archbold told Stateline, adding that departments also need to foster a culture where officers feel comfortable using the support available to them. Departments across the country have expanded access to services like counseling, peer support, therapy, substance use programs, and on-site gyms in response to growing concerns about post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD, depression, and suicide among officers. The Fargo Police Department, for example, hired its first-ever health and wellness coordinator last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the department offers a wide range of mental health-related services and programs, the study found that relatively few officers are using them. Eighty-four percent of surveyed officers were aware of the departments new health and wellness coordinator, but only 22 had interacted with them, and 19 found the interaction helpful. About 68% knew about the Employee Assistance Program; 20 had used it, with 17 reporting it was helpful. Awareness of the peer support program was higher at 93%, yet only 42 officers had used it, and 36 said it was helpful. Still, stigma and fears about career repercussions may discourage some officers from using such services. About half of all U.S. adults will experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetimes, though most will not develop PTSD, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. For police officers, the rate of exposure is significantly higher. Research suggests police officers may experience about three traumatic events every six months, or roughly 180 over a 30-year career. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Repeated exposure to traumatic events has been linked to a wide range of health issues in first responders, including poor sleep quality, depression, alcohol misuse and a heightened risk of PTSD. In the Fargo survey, 53% of officers agreed that most police officers view being treated for a mental illness as a sign of personal weakness and would not seek professional help if they were experiencing mental health issues. Forty percent believed that having a history of mental illness would negatively affect an officers chances for promotion. Many officers also disagreed with the idea that mental illness would lead to mistrust or social exclusion among peers. Sixty-four percent of officers disagreed with statements suggesting that most officers would avoid partnering with or think less of a colleague who had experienced a mental illness. While agencies have expanded mental health resources in recent years, the studys findings suggest that organizational culture remains a key factor in whether officers feel comfortable using those services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. law enforcement system includes more than 17,000 federal, state, county and local agencies. While smaller and rural departments may be less likely to offer robust mental health services, Archbold said that does not reflect a lack of interest from leadership. Many departments regardless of size struggle to meet officer wellness needs within existing budgets and often must seek additional funding to support mental health programs. Its likely that police chiefs would like to have these services available, but they just dont have the money to be able to do that to provide those services, Archbold said. Stateline reporter Amanda Hernandez can be reached at ahernandez@stateline.org. Stateline and the Nebraska Examiner part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. ENDICOTT, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) The New York State Police are searching for a stolen horse from Endicott. The State Police at Endwell are conducting a search for a horse named Koda, who was stolen from a property in Endicott. Police say Koda was stolen sometime between the 23rd and 24th of July on Struble Road in the Town of Union. Courtesy NY State Police Courtesy NY State Police Courtesy NY State Police Courtesy NY State Police Courtesy NY State Police Courtesy NY State Police Koda is a male and is described as being light grey with flecks of red, otherwise known as flea-bitten grey. He also has a dark muzzle. Two brands can be found on Koda, one being on the front left shoulder of the roman letters L and Y. The other brand is an arrow pointing up located on the left rear flank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If anyone has information contact the State Police at (607) 561-7400. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WIVT - News 34. NEED TO KNOW Storm Area 51 was a 2019 Facebook event that went viral Over two million people RSVPed to raid the highly classified U.S. air base The incident is the subject of Netflix's 'Trainwreck: Storm Area 51,' which debuted on July 29 Storm Area 51 may just be one of the most expensive jokes in American history. One late night in June 2019, Matty Roberts, a 20-year-old from Bakersville, Calif., created a Facebook event, which he called the ultimate sh---post." The page, titled Storm Area 51, They Cant Stop All of Us, went on to become a viral phenomenon and is the latest subject of Netflixs Trainwreck docuseries, which debuted on the streamer on July 29. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What if every fool on the internet converged on Area 51. What would they do? Shoot everyone? It just seemed like a hilarious idea to me," Roberts said in the two-part documentary, Trainwreck: Storm Area 51. "Jokes are funnier when theyre edgy, so Id make it sound like a real call to arms. I just thought it would be a funny post for my page of 40 followers. However, the post reached far beyond his followers, and wound up taking the internet by storm. The event not only caught the attention of alien enthusiasts, memers and content creators, but also the United States government, late-night shows and celebrities like Miley Cyrus and Lizzo. So what was Storm Area 51? Here's the true story behind Netflixs Trainwreck: Storm Area 51. Who created Storm Area 51? Ethan Miller/Getty Matty Roberts. Matty Roberts. Storm Area 51 was created by Roberts. One day, while he was bored to tears working at a vape kiosk, Roberts stumbled upon an episode of the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, where Area 51 was being discussed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That night, Roberts created the "Storm Area 51, They Cant Stop All of Us" Facebook event. The next morning, over 1,000 people had RSVPed as "Going." Within days, nearly one million people expressed interest, per Vox. Ultimately, more than two million people marked themselves as attending the event. When was Storm Area 51? The event at Area 51 was scheduled to take place on Sept. 20, 2019, at 3 a.m. Did the military get involved in Storm Area 51? Ahead of the event date, the FBI paid a visit to Roberts home, as he recalled in the docuseries. Im just sitting there shaking, thinking Im about to get a bag over my head and thrown into a van and shipped off to God-knows-where, Roberts said. And theyre grilling me about my social life, my backstory, what kind of religious beliefs I hold. Like just to feel out whether or not I am actually a terrorist." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roberts explained to the FBI that he was not actually planning on storming Area 51. Nonetheless, he claimed that the FBI told him that it was his a-- if anybody decided to go in there and storm the base. Following the meeting, Roberts said he wanted to figure out a way to distance himself from Storm Area 51 and rebrand it in order to avoid punishment. The U.S. military also reacted to Roberts Facebook event, with Air Force spokeswoman Laura McAndrews telling USA Today in a statement, "The Nevada Test and Training Range is an area where the Air Force tests and trains combat aircraft," adding, "Any attempt to illegally access military installations or military training areas is dangerous." In the Netflix documentary, Colonel Cavan Craddock noted that the security forces who guard the Nevada Test and Training Range are very, very good at their job and that they rose their right hand and said they would swear to protect the constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If it takes use of force, they are authorized in order to do so, he continued. What was Alienstock? Courtesy of Netflix 'Trainwreck: Storm Area 51.' 'Trainwreck: Storm Area 51.' Once the Facebook event took off, Roberts decided to host a legitimate Area 51 event called "Alienstock" in Rachel, Nev., a small town close to Area 51, with the help of local residents. However, days before the festival, Roberts decided he would instead headline an "Area 51 Celebration" in downtown Las Vegas, per TIME. The event was a one-night concert and party at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center and was sponsored by Bud Light. Ultimately, a few thousand people showed up to Rachel's "Alien-Stock," per the Las Vegas Review-Journal, which had by then changed its name due to a legal dispute with Roberts, per Vox. He told TIME that he decided to pull out of the event after a dispute over security, sanitation, medical personnel and insurance permits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ten thousand people attended the Area 51 Celebration event in Las Vegas, according to organizers. Did people actually storm Area 51? Mario Tama/Getty A man poses near Area 51 on Sept. 20, 2019. A man poses near Area 51 on Sept. 20, 2019. On Sept. 20, 2019, around 100 individuals went to the best-known Area 51 gate at 3 a.m., but did not break into the air force base, per CBS News. It was a joke. They got their moment of fame, Lincoln County Sheriff Kerry Lee said in Trainwreck: Storm Area 51. They got their picture, and it was done. How much did Storm Area 51 cost the U.S. military? Colonel Craddock revealed in the documentary that the U.S. military recruited additional manpower, vehicles and weapons to ensure that they could deal with multiple things happening, during the so-called storming event, calling it by far the largest defense of the base that has ever happened on the installation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Trainwreck: Storm Area 51, the viral joke cost the U.S. military an estimated $11 million. You can easily say, well we shouldn't have done it. We should not have wasted those resources, Craddock said. My argument will be that there were too wide a range of possibilities with the worst-case scenario being a mass casualty event. And I will defend to the final day that we did not overspend in our preparation for it. Where is Matty Roberts now? Ethan Miller/Getty Matty Roberts at the Area 51 celebration on Sept. 19, 2019. Matty Roberts at the Area 51 celebration on Sept. 19, 2019. At the end of the day, Roberts said he made $1,700 from selling Storm Area 51 T-shirts at the Area 51 Celebration. Ultimately, he went back to his job at a Bakersville vape kiosk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I've just gone through the most surreal and exciting moment of my life, and then one week later, I'm back on the clock at the vape shop," he said in the docuseries. Read the original article on People Gov. Larry Rhoden announced South Dakota law enforcement agencies will be assisting in ICE deportations under a new initiative Operation Prairie Thunder. Operation Prairie Thunder to help ICE deportations It was a very active night across KELOLAND. From several reports of tornadoes and funnel clouds to damaging hail and wind gusts in excess of 80 to 90 mph, weve seen a little bit of everything across the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Destructive weather rips through KELOLAND A plane crashed near New Underwood Monday morning and the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash, the agency posted on social media. 1 dead, 1 injured in plane crash near New Underwood More storms are possible this evening, but worst of the severe weather will shift more to the south. Morning weather; Latest forecast and damage reports across KELOLAND Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. A student performs during a Chinese talent show at the Legae English Medium School in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, July 28, 2025. A Chinese talent show was held here on Monday to provide students with a platform to explore Chinese culture and deepen cross-cultural understanding through diverse performances. (Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua) GABORONE, July 28 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese talent show was held at an English-medium school here on Monday to provide students with a platform to explore Chinese culture and deepen cross-cultural understanding through diverse performances. Themed "Inheriting Chinese Culture, Showcasing Youthful Talents," the event took place at the Legae English Medium School in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana. School Principal Naseema Karodia described the show as a celebration of language, culture, creativity, and confidence. "Today is not just about performances. It's about embracing diversity, learning from each other, and challenging ourselves through Chinese songs, dances, stories, and poetry," she said. The students not only showcased their talents but also demonstrated how language can build bridges between cultures, she added. The competition featured 20 contestants in 15 groups, who captivated the audience with performances ranging from Chinese songs and dances to martial arts, poetry, and paper-cutting. All participants received awards and certificates in recognition of their efforts. The event was attended by guests from the Chinese Embassy in Botswana and the Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana. Since 2018, the Legae English Medium School has included Chinese as part of its full-time language program, known as Confucius Classes, for students from Standard Three to Standard Six. A student performs during a Chinese talent show at the Legae English Medium School in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, July 28, 2025. A Chinese talent show was held here on Monday to provide students with a platform to explore Chinese culture and deepen cross-cultural understanding through diverse performances. (Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua) A student performs during a Chinese talent show at the Legae English Medium School in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, July 28, 2025. A Chinese talent show was held here on Monday to provide students with a platform to explore Chinese culture and deepen cross-cultural understanding through diverse performances. (Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua) Manila, PhilippinesThe Philippines said Tuesday it would ask friendly countries to help secure the release of nine Filipino sailors being held by Yemens Houthi rebels. The Iran-backed Houthis released footage on Monday of crew members missing after attacks on the Eternity C and Magic Seas cargo ships, claiming in an accompanying statement to have rescued the mariners. - Advertisement - Last week, Human Rights Watch said the rebels were unlawfully detaining the crew and that their attacks on shipping amounted to war crimes. The United States has accused the Houthis of kidnapping. Philippine Foreign Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega confirmed the Houthis were holding nine Filipino seafarers. I do not want to use the term hostage. At least we know they are alive, he told Agence France Presse (AFP). Were not going to talk directly with the Houthis. Were going to seek help from friendly countries, he added. The European Unions Operation Aspides naval task force told AFP that 15 of the 25 people onboard the Eternity C were still missingwith four presumed dead. The Philippines Department of Migrant Workers, which has overseen efforts to bring the survivors home, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Houthis sank the Magic Seas and Eternity C in separate Red Sea attacks this month, after a temporary hiatus in their campaign against maritime traffic. The Houthis launched attacks on ships in the trade route soon after the start of the Gaza war, claiming solidarity with Palestinians. The sinking of the Magic Seas was their first attack since late last year, with the Eternity C facing a similar fate soon after. In its statement, the Houthis said they rescued 11 crew members, including two injured, and also recovered a body from aboard the ship before it sank. The video appeared to show the moment the mostly Filipino crew were pulled from the sea wearing life jackets. A man the Houthis said was an electrician was shown lying in bed and speaking in English. Aspides had said a Russian electrician onboard the ship had lost his leg. De Vega said one of the nine Filipinos had suffered an unspecified injury, and that one of the non-Filipino personnel was also injured. Two weeks ago, eight other Filipino crew members who survived the Eternity C attack were flown back to the Philippines. All 17 Filipino seafarers from the Magic Seas have likewise been flown home. Previously, the rebels held the mostly Filipino crew of the Galaxy Leader merchant ship for more than a year, before releasing them in January. Filipino sailors make up as much as 30 percent of the worlds commercial shipping force. The nearly $7 billion they sent home in 2023 accounted for about a fifth of the remittances to the archipelago nation. Work to stabilize a stream bank will bring daily closures to a section of Hessong Bridge Road, starting Aug. 4, according to Frederick County. Hessong Bridge Road will close each day between 6:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. between Powell Road and Fish Hatchery Road for about three weeks, according to a county government press release. Workers from the county's Department of Highway Operations will work to stabilize the stream bank alongside the road. A sign detour will be in place. Jul. 28BEMIDJI Strikepoint handbell ensemble of Duluth will give a concert at 7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 4, at First Baptist Church, 1555 Paul Bunyan Dr. NW. This performance is part of the group's summer concert tour through the Midwest. The concert theme is "variety," and selections include both familiar and new music, ranging from the hymn favorite "A Mighty Fortress" to pop classics "Mister Sandman" and "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head." Attendees will also hear a piece written specifically for Strikepoint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Strikepoint was established in 1984 and has been touring annually since 1986. Their travels have taken them to England, Scotland, Japan, Hong Kong, Sweden, Canada, Hawaii and throughout the mainland U.S., a release said. Strikepoint has performed at St. Paul's Cathedral in London, Sterling Castle in Scotland, Disney World in Florida and both Disneyland and the Crystal Cathedral in California. Locally, they have performed with the Arrowhead Chorale, the Lake Superior Chamber Orchestra and the Duluth-Superior Symphony Orchestra. In 2016, they were cultural exchange ambassadors to Vaxjo, Duluth's Swedish sister city, and last summer they were honored to be selected as the only group representing the U.S. in a special concert at the 21st International Handbell Symposium in Hamamatsu, Japan. The group's 11-member directorless ensemble is unique among touring handbell groups as a combination community/professional/church group. Derek Bromme is the new leader of the ensemble. Admission to the concert is free but an $18 donation is suggested in support of local arts groups. 20% of the evening's donations will go to First Baptist's music program. CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) Nearly 8 million student loan borrowers could see their interest charges restart in just a couple of days. Now, many are left wondering if forgiveness will still be available to them. Six men from Belchertown reach summit of a famous mountain in Africa Beginning August 1st, borrowers on the SAVE plan will have interest charges return after a year-long pause on payments. A recent update from the education department said forgiveness through the income-based repayment plan is paused while systems are updated. IBR is not affected by a federal courts injunction blocking former President Joe Bidens save plan. It was created by Congress separately from other existing repayment plans like PACE and ICR. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But for those on plans like the SAVE plan, financial experts say this move could lead to borrowers entering more debt, and urge you to check your loan status and use a loan simulator to find the minimum you owe. Matthew Farkas with St. Germain Investments told 22News, I would start working on building in your budget as quickly as you can, because the compounding of the interest on the loan, month after month, if you dont pay it down, it becomes a bigger and bigger problem that eventually youre going to have to deal with. Trumps tax and spending law will eventually phase out the ICR, PAYE, and SAVE plans by July 1st, 2028, replacing them with the repayment assistance plan. IBR plans will continue to exist and provide forgiveness after 20 or 25 years. But RAP will require 30 years of repayment before forgiveness is granted. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Cleburne Rotarian Melissa Dansby spoke of the fun and camaraderie North Texas students experienced during last months Rotary Youth Leadership Awards camp at Texas Womens University in Denton. Dansby delivered her thoughts on last months camp during Thursdays weekly meeting of the Cleburne Rotary Club. We had a record high post-COVID number of kids this year with 125, Dansby said. I had the privilege of serving as a Rotarian counselor again and so we divided those 125 into 13 families of 10 kids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RYLA camps are held each June. These are held all over the world so its not just a North Texas Rotary deal, Dansby said. Dansby has long served as a liaison between the Cleburne Rotary Club and the clubs Rotary Interact Club at Cleburne High School and has long been involved with RYLA camp as well. These kids go to the camp for free and each is sponsored by [a Rotary club within the district], Dansby said. We push out applications through principals, advisors, the Interact clubs. Students who are interested in attending RYLA camp next year should talk to their counselor or principal to get an application and learn more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The camp is open to high school students who will be juniors or seniors next year. A lot of the kids who have attended in past years were members of Rotary Interact clubs at their school, Dansby said. But they dont have to be. All junior or senior students are eligible to apply. Applicants tend to be a mix of typical overachievers and others, Dansby said. Some kids who attend come from under the radar, Dansby said. They come from a different perspective. Theyre the quieter ones, the ones who are kind of slow and steady and not involved in everything. Dansby said its amazing to watch students from the latter group come out of their shells and blossom over the course of the 4-day camp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its just a real fun mix of different kids from different schools and backgrounds, Dansby said. Several students from this years RYLA camp described the experience, via a video Dansby played, as an experience of new friendships made, an opportunity to work together while learning leadership skills, a family bonding experience and a chance to meet different people with similar goals. Several students a student may only attend the camp once while still a high school student have gone on to return in subsequent years as junior counselors and later as Rotary members. The focus is all around leadership of which there are so many aspects, Dansby said. That takes motivating, planning and organizing into account among other skills. Building teams in person nowadays is not something a lot of kids get to practice or learn given so many are socially distanced in our digital world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attendees compete in numerous activities such as tackling issues while serving as members of a mock Denton City Council, both as council and audience members, Dansby said. Through another exercise, groups of students form fake countries to tackle different issues. Theres an element of competition, Dansby said. But in years past all the countries have come together as one at the end of the exercise. It really emulates a lot of real world things that are happening that we see on the news everyday. These kids have to make tough choices as a group in relation to other tough choices being made by other groups in the room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The camp gives students a taste of Rotary values as well as college life. For some of these kids, this is the first time theyve stayed in a college dorm or even been on the campus of a college, Dansby said. Dansby encouraged her fellow Rotarians to get involved with RYLA. She added that the counselors and volunteers derive as much from the camps as do the students. We need to continue to challenge ourselves and look at how we can continue to grow these kids as the next generation of leaders, Dansby said. Thats why I continue to go back every year. (WHTM) Pennsylvania State Police announced they have received an independent analysis of data from all Trooper-related stops in 2024. The study, led by Dr. Robin Engel, a nationally recognized policing expert and Senior Research Scientist at the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at The Ohio State University, represents the latest findings from PSPs voluntary ongoing data collection initiative designed to strengthen public trust, enhance trooper and motorist safety, and inform improvements in policy and training. According to the study, there were no substantive racial or ethnic disparities in the reasons for stops and no substantive differences in post-stop outcomes (warnings, citations, and arrests) for Black and Hispanic drivers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The independent analysis by nationally recognized policing expert Dr. Robin Engel and her team confirms once again that Pennsylvania state troopers initiate stops for legitimate violations, said PSP Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris. Decisions about warnings, citations, searches, and arrests are determined by the factssuch as the reason for the stop, investigative findings, and the drivers behavior during the encounternot by race or ethnicity. Our commitment to fair and impartial policing is backed by transparent data. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Subscribe Now WHTM Daily Digest The Pennsylvania State Polices continued investment in a comprehensive and accurate data collection process adds confidence to our statistical findings, which again show no substantive racial or ethnic disparities in traffic stops or post-stop outcomes, said Dr. Robin Engel. This level of transparency and accountability is essential for maintaining public trust and should serve as a model for law enforcement agencies across the Commonwealth. The study analyzed 433,599 traffic stops in 2024, and moving violations accounted for about 60% of drivers stopped by Troopers. Other highway interactions resulted from registration, equipment, inspection, or license violations. The study says speeding was the most common reason for stops, with drivers exceeding the speed limit by an average of 21.7 mph. The study said the majority of traffic stops resulted in either warnings or citations, and arrests occurred in only 3.7% of stops, while discretionary searches were conducted in just 2.2% of cases. The strongest predictors of all post-stop outcomes were legal factors, including the initial reason for the stop, observed evidence of criminal activity, the drivers compliance, and any criminal history such as outstanding warrants, per the study. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To view the complete 2024 report, visit the Contact Data Reporting page of the PSP website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. If you're investing in solar power for the long haul, the SunPower Maxeon 7 solar panel stands out for its exceptional warranty and durability. In this SunPower Maxeon 7 review, we explain why its our top choice for longevity and how it compares to other brands on the market. Whether youre trying to cut your energy bills or make your home more sustainable, solar panels can be a smart investment. To help you get started, weve reviewed the best solar panels available in the UK and compared leading products side by side. You can also check out our guide to the best solar panel installers to ensure a quality installation. Why choose the SunPower Maxeon 7? (Reuters) Price, installed: 1250 per kW Efficiency: 24 per cent Wattage per panel: 475W Type: N-Type Made in: Malaysia and the Philippines Degradation: 90.8 per cent after 30 years Warranty: 40 years with registration, only for certain fitters Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A pricier unit than most, the SunPower Maxeon 7 solar panel also has the staying power to justify the extra expense. Its the only solar panel in our roundup to offer an industry-leading 40-year warranty, making it ideal for homeowners prioritising long-term peace of mind. The catch is that you must register the product to access this extended coverage, and only certain installers qualify, so be sure to ask your provider if this is important to you. The panel also delivers high efficiency, strong power output and minimal degradationit will retain more than 90% of its original power output even after 30 years. Its high output per panel makes the Maxeon 7 a smart choice for homes with limited roof space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whilst still using the SunPower brand, Singapore-based Maxeon was spun off from its American parent company, SunPower, in 2020. The company is now headquartered in Singapore and listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Chinas TCL Technology Group owns more than a third of its shares, while Frances TotalEnergies holds roughly 25%. Here are some of the more technical details: N -type Mono-crystalline , 120 cells Dimensions in mm: 1913 x 1035 x 35 Maximum Power Current : 12.32A Maximum voltage: 37.74V Operating Temperature (): -40 to +85 Max. Test Load, Push/Pull (Pa) Snow 5400 / Wind 4,500 Certifications: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ammonia Corrosion Test: IEC 62716 Salt Mist Corrosion Test: IEC 61701 Dust & Sand: IEC 60068 Weighing just 21kg, the panel is relatively light for its size. It measures 1.91m x 1.04m with a depth of 3.5cm. In terms of durability, they can take force of 5,400 pascals of snow and 4,500 pascals of wind. In simpler terms, 5,400Pa is the same as 550kg force per square metre. One note of caution: Maxeons financial performance has been under pressure in recent years. The company lost its largest customer following the 2020 split from SunPower, which negatively impacted revenues. In 2024, Maxeon announced plans to sell its non-US business to its main investor, TCL. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more on longevity, see our guide to how long solar panels last. Pros: Industry-leading 40-year warranty Best-in-class longevity retains over 90% power after 30 years High output per panel for limited roof space Cons: Expensive Company undergoing corporate restructuring For those seeking top-tier solar solutions, Maxeon Solar Technologies stands as a steadfast leader in the PV sector, backed by a dedicated network Stratford Energy How we compiled our guide To compile our list, we spoke to experts on the ground and have broken down the top-performing brands based on real-world value, not just technical specs. Weve prioritised long-term performance, value for money, and the reputation of the best solar panel installers in the UK. And if youre wondering are solar panels worth it for your home, this guide is designed to help you make a smart, informed decision that pays off over timewhether youre upgrading an old array or fitting solar panels for the first time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most panels are guaranteed for 25 years and offer similar power output, size, efficiency and looks. So weve weighted our judgement towards cost and degradation, which describes how much power the cells will provide after a number of years. The higher the percentage, the better. Much of your decision will also depend on which installer you go with, as many have preferred brands they work with due to bulk purchasing. Youll also see a lot of unfamiliar Chinese names as you do your research, but many of these are Tier-1 manufacturers in clean energy with strong track records in quality and durability. Why trust us The Independent has been reporting on green energy and climate matters since it was founded in 1986. Since then, we have written hundreds of reviews and news stories on energy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The solar panel market is increasingly competitive, with many unfamiliar brands offering similar features. But selecting the right system involves more than just choosing the panel with the highest efficiency or longest warranty. Our guides dig into the detail of each product to bring you the information you need to make the right decision. What to look for Many solar panels now come with comparable specs, including 25- to 30-year lifespans, high wattage, and sleek all-black designs. But with installation being the largest part of the overall cost of solar panels, and British weather posing its own set of challenges, it makes choosing a durable, efficient panel even more important. The rise of commercial solar farms has accelerated innovation and brought down manufacturing costs, particularly with China's leading role in the global supply chain. However, labour, scaffolding, and integration with your home electrical system remain key cost factors, so its essential to look at total system cost, not just the panel price, when evaluating the best solar panels for your home. SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) Upstate Medical University is sharing the results of a newly-complete economic impact report showing how the institution financially contributes to the city, county, region and state. The calculations, done by consulting firm Tripp Umbach, show spending by Upstate and its employees, patients and visitors, contributes $3.2 billion to New York State. The 2024 amount is double the 2008 number. New York State: $3.2 billion Central New York Region: $2.8 billion Onondaga County: $2.6 billion City of Syracuse: $1 billion Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The contributions include money spent by people working for or visiting Upstate Hospital, the universitys medical students, employees spending, paid taxes and more. Paul Umbach, president of Tripp Umbach, suggested the hospital, school and overall community recognize the economic engine that Upstate has become. Im big on advanced manufacturing, Umbach said. If you dont take the healthcare research and make it into products that can help people be healthier youve left a lot on the table. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR. Turkish defense contractor Roketsan has rolled out a substantially larger version of its Tayfun short-range ballistic missile. In addition to the new capabilities it could offer Turkey, the Tayfun Block 4 is another indication of a broader resurgence of interest in larger and longer-ranged ballistic missiles, especially within the U.S. military. Roketsan unveiled the Tayfun Block 4 at the 2025 International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) in Istanbul last week. The Tayfun family first broke cover in 2022, and the weapon reportedly evolved from Rokestans preceding Bora short-range ballistic missile. Tayfun and Bora mean typhoon and storm in Turkish, respectively. Tayfun Block 4 is close to 33 feet (10 meters) long, just over 3 feet (close to one meter) wide, and has a total weight of nearly eight tons (7,200 kilograms), according to Janes. Existing specifications for Tayfun (no block specified) on Roketsans website describe a missile that has an overall length of just over 21 feet (6.5 meters), a diameter of around two feet (just over 0.6 meters), and a gross weight of some two and a half tons (2,300 kilograms). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Tayfun Block-4 achieves long ranges, setting another record for the Turkish defense industry, Rokestan said in a statement, according to Turkeys state-run Anadolu Agency news outlet. It will be capable of destroying numerous strategic targets, such as air defense systems, command and control centers, military hangars, and critical military facilities Roketsan has not disclosed an official maximum range for Tayfun Block 4, but its substantially larger size has prompted speculation that it may be in the medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) category. MRBMs are categorized as ballistic missiles with maximum ranges between 620 and 1,860 miles (1,000 and 3,000 kilometers), while short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) can reach out to between 190 and 620 miles (300 and 1,000 kilometers). The stated range of Tayfun provided on Roketsans website is greater than 174 miles (280 kilometers). Previous versions of Tayfun have reportedly demonstrated the ability to hit targets nearly 350 miles (561 kilometers) away. It is worth noting that Tayfun Block 4 has been touted as a hypersonic missile, but there is nothing yet to indicate it has any characteristics associated with highly maneuverable hypersonic weapons, as you can read more about here. Ballistic missiles, especially larger, longer-ranged types, typically reach hypersonic speeds, defined as anything above Mach 5, in the latter stages of flight. Other details about the Block 4 version of Tayfun, as well as the differences between the preceding Blocks, are limited. All versions, including the new Block 4, are understood to carry large unitary blast fragmentation warheads and use go-onto-location-in-space (GOLIS) guidance, at least in their default configurations. GOLIS weapons can operate on a number of different principles, including simply flying along a preset trajectory or leveraging inertial guidance, but are all limited to engaging fixed or near-fixed targets based on data loaded into the missile before launch. Roketsans website says the GOLIS guidance system used in the Tayfun family gives the missiles a circular error probable (CEP) of less than 33 feet (10 meters), meaning that the weapons can reliably hit within that distance of a specified aim point. The full Tayfun product card from Roketsans website. Roketsan Whether or not Tayfun Block 4 is confirmed to be an MRBM remains to be seen. Roketsan is also known to be developing an MRBM called Cenk (meaning war in Turkish). Cenk was publicly disclosed two months after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced plans to acquire ballistic missiles with maximum ranges of at least 620 miles (1,000 kilometers). It remains unclear whether Erdogan may also have been referring to an extended-range version of Tayfun at that time. Just last week, Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacir reportedly declared that Turkey was pursuing missiles with maximum ranges of around 1,242 miles (2,000 kilometers), but did not specify whether he was referring to ballistic or cruise missiles, or name any particular programs. Reports also emerged last year that Turkey is looking to begin testing ballistic missiles in Somalia, specifically because of the greater space available in the East African country to conduct longer-range launches. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A variant of Tayfun with MRBM range, or close to it, could offer a hedge against any issues in the development of Cenk. At the same time, a purpose-built MRBM rather than one derived from SRBM would offer the potential for increased overall performance and greater survivability, including through a greater total payload capacity that could include the addition of new decoys and other countermeasures against anti-missile interceptors, as well as improved warhead options. A missile designed from the ground up as an MRBM would be easier to further scale up, as well. For Turkey, the development and fielding of longer-range ballistic missiles, broadly, is being driven in part by a desire to deter long-time regional competitor Greece. Now we have started to build our missiles. Of course, this production frightens the Greeks. When you say Tayfun (Typhoon), the Greek is scared. They (Greece) say it will hit Athens. Of course, it will hit it, Erdogan said in December 2022. It would also extend Turkeys reach against other regional opponents. Turkish forces have reportedly fired Bora short-range ballistic missiles at Kurdish militants in Iraq in the past. Tayfun Block 4 could also be geared in part to potential export sales. Turkish defense contractors, with the support of the government in Ankara, have been steadily pushing in recent years to expand their global market share, in general. However, Turkey is a member of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) arms control bloc, an arrangement that puts severe restrictions on the export of missiles that can carry payloads of more than 1,100 pounds to distances of more than 190 miles. Bora falls within the MTCR parameters, and Roketsan offers an export-specific version called Khan, which Indonesia signed a contract to purchase in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of this underscores the aforementioned new surge of interest globally in ballistic missiles in recent years, especially in the West. The U.S. Army may also be pursuing a two-tier conventionally-armed MRBM plan. The service has outlined a plan for a future variant or derivative of its Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) with MRBM range. There are signs it could be working toward acquiring a new purpose-built MRBM design, as well, as TWZ reported on back in April. The Army has not had an MRBM capability of any kind since it retired its nuclear-armed Pershing IIs in 1991. PrSM is also being offered for export, at least to top-tier U.S. allies and partners. Australia is set to be the first foreign operator of the missile, and just recently test-fired one in the country for the first time as part of the biennial Talisman Saber exercise, in which the U.S. military is also participating. A Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) short-range ballistic missile is launched during Talisman Saber 2025. Australian Department of Defense In general, the very high terminal speeds ballistic missiles reach make them especially well-suited for employment against high-value time-sensitive targets. Missiles traveling at hypersonic velocities also present additional challenges for defenders. Those speeds give the missiles an inherent ability to burrow deeper into hardened targets, as well. The utility of ballistic missiles has been on full display on both sides of the ongoing war in Ukraine in recent years. Russia made a particular statement last year when it fired at Ukraine a previously unknown ballistic missile capable of carrying multiple warheads called Oreshnik. There are reports that Ukraine is getting close to fielding a new domestically-developed ballistic missile of its own, if it hasnt started to do so already. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iranian ballistic missile attacks on Israel, particularly during the 12-Day War in June, have also underscored the value of these weapons and the threats they pose, even against countries with significant missile defense capabilities. Iran has used its ballistic missile arsenal in attacks on Syria, Iraq, and Pakistan, as well. Many countries are fielding new air and sea-launched ballistic missiles, especially China. Israel has made significant use of air-launched ballistic missiles against Iran, including during the conflict in June. Russia has also fired air-launched ballistic missiles at Ukraine. Whether or not Tayfun Block 4 is indeed an MRBM, it is the latest example of Turkeys push to expand and diversify its ballistic missile arsenal, which reflects worldwide trends. Contact the author: joe@twz.com A man was arrested for driving under the influence and speeding after being caught going 103 mph on State Road 528 in Brevard County early Saturday morning. Michael Tengstedt was pulled over by the Brevard County Sheriffs Office for speeding and was suspected of DUI. Sheriff Wayne Ivey commented on the incident, highlighting the dangers of driving at excessive speeds and under the influence. The incident happened when the deputy clocked Tengstedts vehicle going 103 mph, a violation under Floridas new super speeder law. When stopped, Tengstedt admitted to driving a little fast and said he was on his way to go fishing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deputy said he noted signs of impairment in Tengstedt, who then failed roadside sobriety tests and refused to give a breath sample. Tengstedt was arrested, charged with driving under the influence and speeding over 100 mph, and held on a $1,000 bond. Ivey emphasized that driving at such high speeds and under the influence poses significant risks, warning that such actions will lead to jail time in Brevard County. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Detroit Food Academy (DFA) is presenting another specially curated chef dinner that helps benefit the nonprofit. Tickets are still available for the academy's Supper Club event at Hiroki-San Detroit. The restaurant at Detroits Book Tower hosts SheWolf Pastificio & Bar dinner, coming up at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3.The events menu is curated by Hiroki-San chef Christian Vasquez and SheWolfs Anthony Lombardo. Featuring six courses, the menu is a fusion of Italian and Japanese fare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guests will dine on Japanese milk bread served garlic-bread style, shrimp aji crudo, meatball bao bun, rigatoni Tantanmen, sakaura pork collar and grilled yuzu pound cake. Tickets for the DFA Supper Club event are $200 per person and available through resy.com.All proceeds for the event benefit the nonprofit that fosters a place where Detroits youth learn Detroits food system through culinary arts and food entrepreneurship. Hiroki-San, a Japanese-style dining concept pairing traditional and contemporary techniques, is at 1265 Washington Blvd. in Detroit on the Book Towers lower level. Executive chef and owner, Anthony Lombardo opened SheWolf Pastificio & Bar in 2019 at 438 Selden St., in Midtown. The restaurant is known for its contemporary Italian cuisine and pastas made from hand-milled flour. Contact Detroit Free Press food and restaurant writer Susan Selasky and send food and restaurant news and tips to: sselasky@freepress.com. Follow @SusanMariecooks on Twitter. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Tickets for Detroit Food Academy supper club event: What to know In a major effort to intensify the fight against cryptocurrency-related fraud in the country, Scam Watch Pilipinas, the national anti-scam advocacy movement of Truth360, Inc., has partnered with Chainabuse, a global crypto scam reporting platform powered by TRM Labs, a leading global blockchain intelligence firm based in the US. As part of the partnership, the Chainabuse anti-crypto scam reporting tool will be integrated into the Scam Watch Pilipinas website, enabling Filipinos to easily report suspicious blockchain activities and fraudulent crypto transactions. The integration empowers everyday citizens to contribute to scam prevention efforts through a trusted, community-driven platform backed by global threat intelligence. - Advertisement - Scam Watch Pilipinas and Chainabuse will also roll out a nationwide anti-crypto scam awareness campaign focused on educating Filipinosparticularly OFWs, working professionals, and retireeson how to spot, report, and avoid common crypto scams. The campaign will include online learning content, webinars, and community outreach initiatives. We welcome Chainabuse as a vital ally in our campaign to curb crypto scams in the Philippines, said Jocel de Guzman, Founder and President of Truth360, Inc. and Co-Founder of Scam Watch Pilipinas. This partnership expands our advocacys reach and impact by equipping our kababayans with global tools and knowledge to fight back against scammers who prey on the hopes of hardworking Filipinos. Chainabuse, supported by TRM Labs, provides a centralized platform for individuals and organizations to report illicit activity across major blockchains. TRM Labs works with law enforcement, regulators, and financial institutions globally to track and disrupt crypto-related crime. We are excited to collaborate with Scam Watch Pilipinas to bring Chainabuse closer to the Filipino people, said Isaac Manopla, Blockchain Risk and Intelligence expert at TRM Labs. Through this partnership, were helping build a digital environment where Filipinos can safely engage with blockchain technology while staying alert to potential threats. The Chainabuse tool will go live on the Scam Watch Pilipinas website by the end of July 2025. The public awareness campaign will launch shortly thereafter. This partnership marks a critical step forward in protecting Filipinos from crypto-enabled fraud while strengthening the nations digital resilience through citizen-led action and global collaboration. PROVIDENCE A man who supplies products to convenience stores in Rhode Island has agreed to plead guilty to selling misbranded drugs containing the active ingredient in Viagra without customers' knowledge. An Attleboro, Massachusetts, man entered a plea agreement with federal prosecutors on July 23 in which he admitted to a charge that he introduced misbranded drugs, namely those that promise to remedy erectile dysfunction, into interstate commerce from 2019 through 2023. The government identified the man as the president of Noor Inc., a company registered by the Rhode Island Secretary of State as a supplier of merchandise to convenience stores in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York and New Hampshire. The company was dissolved in January, according to the records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His lawyer, Dylan Christopher DiLibero, declined comment. His clients arraignment is set for Aug. 8 in U.S. District Court. He will also forfeit $340,200, under the agreement. Products named Magnum, Super Panther, XXXPlosion According to federal prosecutors, the misbranded drugs contained sildenafil citrate, the active pharmaceutical ingredient in prescription drugs, including Viagra, approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of erectile dysfunction without listing it as an ingredient. As a result, customers who bought the products under the names JMY (Just Me and You), Rhino, Magnum, Super Panther, XXXPlosion, and Gold Lion and marketed as 100% natural male sexual performance enhancement supplements, unknowingly took varying amounts of the substances that could lead to health complications. The labels of JMY included the phrases male enhancement and unleash the bull and claimed that the products contained, among other things, Ginseng, wild yam, saw palmetto, white willow bark, and ashwagandha. In reality, JMY, as well as Rhino, Magnum, Super Panther, XXXPlosion, and Gold Lion contained sildenafil citrate, prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the criminal information, he purchased JMY from an unnamed individual who received the unapproved sildenafil citrate from companies in India. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Massachusetts man sold misbranded erectile dysfunction drugs in RI A new Gallup poll measures Americans approval of Israels military action in Gaza at 32 percent, the lowest point recorded since the question was first asked in November 2023, immediately following Hamass terrorist attack on the country. Americans disapproval of Israels military action has now reached 60 percent and diverges greatly along partisan lines. Democratic support is at a low of 8 percent, while 25 percent of independents approve with those low numbers contributing to overall decline in approval. The latest poll took place between July 7-21. It comes amid growing international outrage against Israel for a worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, with food crisis experts saying Tuesday there is a worst-case scenario related to famine in the territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Americans supported Israels actions in Gaza in its initial reading in 2023, taken several weeks after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack. Since then, disapproval has outpaced approval in each survey, peaking at 55 percent in March 2024 before dipping to 48 percent in two readings later in the year, Gallup said. While 71 percent of Republicans approve of Israels military actions in Gaza, the wide divergence among political parties is viewed as threatening the longstanding bipartisan support for the U.S.-Israel relationship. Sen. Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, said Monday he would vote against any military support for Israel amid the hunger crisis in Gaza. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) on Friday introduced a joint resolution of disapproval to block certain weapons shipments to Israel, reportedly to block the sale of thousands of fully automatic assault rifles. In April 2024, Congress approved more than $14 billion in security assistance to Israel, and under the Biden administration, approved more than 100 separate foreign military sales, the Washington Post reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Biden was criticized for slow-walking deliveries to Israel under pressure from Democrats to hold back sending some of Americas most destructive weaponry. The Trump administration said in March it was expediting the delivery of approximately $4 billion in military assistance to Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, asked earlier this month whether he was worried about declining support for Israel in the Democratic Party, said he was certainly interested in maintaining the great support that Israel has had and blamed a concerted effort to spread vilifications and demonization against Israel in social media. We intend to fight it, nothing defeats lies like the truth Once people are exposed to the facts, we win hands down. Thats what we intend to do in the coming months and years. The Gallup poll also recorded a majority of Americans disapprove of Netanyahu, at 52 percent, his highest unfavorable rating since 1997, but that measure also diverges along party lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two-thirds of Republicans, 67 percent, now have a favorable opinion of Netanyahu, compared with 19 percent of independents and 9 percent of Democrats, Gallup said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Editors note: NewsNation reporter Diana Falzone has reported extensively on the sisters escape from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan and her involvement in getting them out of the country. Read her prior reporting on the topic here. (NewsNation) In the summer of 2021, two Afghan sisters on the Talibans kill list were faced with a seemingly impossible mission: Escape the country after the Taliban took control. Shrouded in secrecy, they documented their journey, aided by an American Afghan war veteran. Today, Sonia and Breshna Azatyar are both safely settled in different parts of Europe and are using their real names. They, along with retired Sergeant Major Gonzalo Lassally who operated the non-profit Tarjoman.org are sharing details of how they snuck out of Afghanistan nearly four years ago while the U.S. military was withdrawn, and the Taliban took over. Life on the Talibans kill list Kabul fell on August 15, 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sonia feared for herself and her familys safety due to concerns that the terrorist group would kill people who were allied with the U.S. military. All the women and girls and men who have worked for the (U.S. military), or with them they may not live anymore. So that was a clear reason to be scared, she said. Trump announces US will build food centers in Gaza As the country was being seized, Breshna was in the midst of an exam at the Afghanistan Institute of Higher Education, where she was studying international relations and diplomacy. I heard that people were shooting, saying so loudly that Taliban, they come, you have to leave university. And I was doing my exam at the same time, Breshna, now 24 years old, said. I called Sonia because she was the only person who came to my mind. What should I do? Where should I go? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Breshna stayed hidden in her university classroom until Sonia, a journalist and interpreter for international journalists, found her. They asked a resident next door for a hijab to cover herself to escape, because she says the Taliban would have killed her on sight. Breshna Azatyar dresses in a burka on Sept. 1, 2021, hiding her identity after the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan. Credit: Breshna Azatyar I wasnt able to sleep for a few days, and then I wasnt able to even leave the house. I had that trauma in my head, like, What if they see me outside my home, they will kill me,' Breshna said. US, EU strike trade deal for 15% tariffs As U.S. troops departed, the Taliban began tracking down families to find unwed daughters to take as fighters brides, Lassally said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lot of people we were helping let us know or inform us that theyre being told that women that were at the age of being married, which to those men is particularly young, were going to be married off to the Taliban fighters, as a method of of thanks to what the Taliban fighters did by freeing the country, he said. Sonia caught one of the last flights out of Kabul on Aug. 25, 2021. The next day, a suicide bomb hit Kabul airport and flights were halted, leaving Breshna and her family stranded four days before the withdrawal deadline. Rescuing US allies in Afghanistan Lassally, who served two deployments in Afghanistan with the 10th Mountain Division, started the operation Tarjoman out of his home to help evacuate Afghan allies, such as interpreters he worked with during his deployment in the country. The groups mission was to move friends, interpreters and other people with connections to U.S. soldiers who were still in country. It also set up a non-profit to help with the needs of the people in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It turned into a 24 hour a day operation, an operation center that was built in my dining room with multiple TVs showing imagery and chats going back and forth with other veteran organizations and we started reaching out to local churches, and people in the local area to see if they wanted to volunteer with our makeshift operation center, and getting paperwork shuffled and started, Lassally said. Rep. Ralph Norman launches bid for South Carolina governor The group was able to move people around from Taliban checkpoints in Kabul, using the metadata from pictures taken of those checkpoints. We were able to get resources like buses to transport people from Kabul to Islamabad or Mazar-i-Sharif, or places like that, to get people out of the unsafe areas where they were going and knocking door to door, ransacking the apartments or houses, looking for documents to find proof that people were working for Americans, Lassally said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lassally and his team carefully executed an escape plan for Breshna, her mother, and brother. However, even with meticulous planning, the dangers were high for the student and her family. We had to carefully instruct people to hide documents a certain way or take pictures of them and get rid of them. Hide the cell phones. Have burkas on hand, have a good story going across the border. He said life was lived second-to-second as they crossed the border. Taliban guards looked for people hiding their faces, colored fingernails, or anything else deemed progressive to the new government. Trump CIA chief: Brennan, Comey and Hillary Clinton could face indictment Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leaving Afghanistan was a scary experience for her and her family, leaving without a passport and visa, and being told not to use her cell phone. Breshna and Sonia Azatyar pose for a picture in Europe after escaping Afghanistan following the withdrawal of U.S. troops. Credit Breshna Azatyar You have to hide you, and you have to hide your face. You have to wear something to cover all your face. Breshna said. It was clear that they just wanted to know who is inside the car I heard a lot of stories in the border that some of the people were recognized by the Taliban, and they stopped the car, and they brought them, and they were lost on the way. Breshna and her family safely crossed into Pakistan on Sept. 27, 2021. They would stay there for several months before departing to live in Paris. While both sisters escaped the Taliban, their older brother stayed behind in Kabul with his wife and five children, including a newborn daughter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 39-year-old former police officer was attacked by Taliban fighters on the street. He was seen wearing a T-shirt with a picture of Ahmed Shah Massoud, the assassinated guerrilla commander of the resistance against the Taliban. He died in the hospital on June 17. Trump says Epstein stole workers from him, leading to fallout Breshna said before her brothers death, they had hoped the family could find peace in France. It was something that completely destroyed me, and it was not just only about myself, and I was living with my mother, and everything was new for me. Like, imagine if we would think, start life from zero, being in a new country, like learning the language, and forget all the trauma behind you, what you have been, what you have seen in Afghanistan, with all this stuff, and hearing such news, it was really too much for me, but we cant do anything, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the day she left Afghanistan, Breshna said, I wasnt even able to say goodbye to him. Navigating life after leaving Afghanistan Sonia presently resides in Nijmegen in the Netherlands, and said she grapples with making connections in her new country as she lives with emotional wounds from her past. Breshna Azatyar in Europe after escaping Afghanistan following the 2021 U.S. military withdrawal. Credit Breshna Azatyar Here you have everything, and you can connect with people, but youre all the time, afraid that, do they really understand me? Do they really feel what I have been through? Am I able to express? Am I able to be myself with all the injuries that I have in my soul? So now, Im kind of trying to make a bridge for refugees who are living here, she said. Trump, British PM Starmer talk trade deals and war in Gaza Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though grief lives in the sisters hearts, Breshna expressed gratitude for her new life away from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Its way 1,000 times better than what we had, what I had in Afghanistan, like imagine having a life I cant call it like life in Afghanistan. We were just surviving, she said. Imagine not having freedom. You are not able to choose what you will be. Youre not able to choose how you will look, or anything, if we compare this life with how women are now in Afghanistan, in the last three years thats not alive, not at all. Its just surviving, she continued. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. MADISON, Ill. A suspect is now behind bars and facing criminal charges in connection with the shooting death of a teenager over the weekend in Madison, Illinois. The Madison County States Attorneys Office has charged Rayontae M. Pearson, 22, with two counts of first-degree murder, unlawful use of a weapon and being a felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the case. The victim, a 16-year-old boy, was shot and killed on Saturday afternoon near the intersection of Washington and Wayne Lanter avenues. The victims identity has not been disclosed as of Tuesday, nor have details on any potential motives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis announced the arrest on Tuesday, noting it stemmed from an arrest warrant after 58 leads over the last three days. STL County Executive Sam Page indicted on election offenses I want to commend Chief Jeff Bridick and the dedicated officers of the Madison Police Department for their quick response and outstanding collaboration with the Major Case Squad in this investigation, said Madison County States Attorney Tom Haine via a news release. I also commend Wood River Police Sgt. Brent Rombach, who is serving as the Major Case Squad Deputy Commander for this investigation, along with the investigators who are working under his direction. The professionalism and urgency of the officers and the investigators resulted in these charges. This investigation again demonstrated the strength of regional collaboration among law enforcement agencies. This arrest once again highlights the dedication, professionalism, and coordination among our investigators, said Sergeant Justin Biggs, Illinois Chief Deputy Commander for the Major Case Squad. We are proud of the outcome of this case and remain committed to pursuing justice for victims and their families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pearson is now jailed with a pending detention hearing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) One person has been arrested in connection with a June 2024 burglary where three vehicles were stolen. The Manheim Township Police Department reports that on June 10, 2024, officers responded to Autohaus in Manheim Township regarding a report of vandalism. Police said Corey Pierre Pollard, 42, of Columbia, Maryland, and two others allegedly rammed a window, entered the business, and stole the keys of three vehicles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police say the keys were used to steal two Mercedes-Benz and a Range Rover. Police say security footage showed the suspects taking the vehicles and driving away on West Roseville Road. The GPS from the Range Rover showed that it was in Columbia, Maryland. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now WHTM Daily Digest The vehicle was found with a PA registration belonging to Toyota of York. Police said Toyota of York confirmed that some registrations were missing, and security cameras showed that all three vehicles arrived on June 9, 2024. The suspects placed registrations on their vehicles. Fingerprints obtained from the scene matched Pollard, police said. Phone records obtained by police confirmed he used a phone in the area of the burglary on June 9 and 10, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pollard surrendered himself to the Penitentiary in Atlanta, where he remains in custody. Police said he was charged on July 18, 2025, with burglary, theft by unlawful taking, and other related charges. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) A man who was charged in a deadly north central Columbus shooting last year was sentenced Monday to five years of community control. Kiante Lee pleaded guilty last month to one count of reckless homicide and two counts of attempted felonious assault, according to court records. Lee was given credit for 476 days of jail time, according to a sentencing sheet. One dead in north Columbus crash Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lee was one of two people arrested after an April 2024 shooting at an apartment complex along Brentnell Avenue in the Farmingham neighborhood. Watch previous coverage in the player above. Multiple witnesses reported that the man who was killed fired a shot from a handgun into an apartment before Lee and another person reportedly came outside and the three exchanged gunfire. Video evidence of the shooting as well as shell casings and handguns were recovered from the scene. Police said several apartment units were also struck by gunfire. If Lee violates his community control, he will face up to 60 months in prison. Lee must complete a behavioral health assessment, and must not have any new convictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. An attempted murder suspect used a baby as a human shield during a standoff with police in Newark on Monday, authorities said. The unidentified suspect was tracked to a house in the North Jersey city around 11 a.m., NJ.com reported. He was wanted in an attempted murder case in nearby Union County, but cops didnt provide additional details. When officers arrived at the home, they saw the man holding a gun and the baby, sources told WNBC. At one point, he placed the baby outside and opened fire on police, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior to the end of the standoff, the suspect released the baby and a woman from the home, WABC reported. I dont know what he was trying to do, or what it was about. I do know he had a child with him and police safely removed the child from his care, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka said after the standoff. We have the child, so the child is not in danger, thank God. After the suspect started shooting, several officers on the scene returned fire, according to WCBS. The standoff and shootout concluded around 3 p.m., and no officers or bystanders, including the woman and the baby, were injured in the incident. All of this started pulling up immediately, quick, fast, neighbor Tommy Easterling told the station. The next thing you hear is pow, pow, pow, pow, while theyre firing at the house. New Jersey State Police will investigate the incident. The Brief After a night out in Philadelphia, a couple says they were robbed at gunpoint. The male victim says his Rolex watch and wallet were taken. Police say plate readers confirm that the suspect's vehicle followed the victims into Washington Township. WASHINGTON TWP, N.J. - Washington Township police are searching for suspects they say were involved in the armed robbery of a couple returning home from Philadelphia. What we know At around 11:33 p.m., Washington Township police received a call reporting a robbery that occurred outside a residence on Eton Drive in the Crofton Run development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victims said they had just returned home from Philadelphia. According to the investigation, the male victim exited his Mercedes-Benz convertible in the driveway with his fiancee when he was ambushed by two armed suspects. Police say one suspect struck the victim in the head with a handgun while demanding his Rolex watch and wallet. They say the second suspect held the female victim at gunpoint and ordered her to remain silent. The suspects, wearing dark clothing and masks, fled the scene in a car parked nearby. A neighbors home security camera captured the incident. What they're saying Piercing screams can be heard from a woman whose fiance says had a gun pointed at her while he struggled with armed robbers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surveillance video shows the suspects sneak up in the dark after the couple got out of their car around 11 o'clock last night. "Two unidentified suspects came at me with full force and they were armed with Glock guns," said Frank Manfredi. He believes they were followed to their home in the Crofton Run Development in Washington Township. The couple was returning home from a night out in Rittenhouse and Center City Philadelphia. "At the Parc Rittenhouse abd we finished dinner and took a stroll down Broad Street and we went to the Ritz Carlton to have some late-night cocktails," said Manfredi. "We got into the car, put the convertible top down on my Mercedes and we continued to drive home." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A neighbor's security camera captures Manfredi turning onto his street and the headlights from a car behind him that keeps going. But moments after, the suspects appear. Manfredi says one of them pistol whipped him as he tried to get free. "They went to take my Rolex watch off my arm and reach down in my pocket and take my wallet," he said. Washington Township Police say the two suspects got away on Eton Drive at Joseph Drive, a little less than a block from the victim's driveway. Chief Patrick Gurcsik says this is an isolated incident. "Our victims were followed into Washington Township by our suspects and we were able to determine that by using license plate reader data that our agency has throughout Washington Township," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They may have been probing me for that evening or who knows it could have been even longer than that," said Manfredi. What you can do Anyone with information or surveillance footage from the area is urged to contact Detective Lou DiAmbrosio or Detective Matt Barnett at (856) 589-0330. The Source The information in this story is from Washington Township police. SWEPCO looks to raise monthly rates by $30 ARKANSAS (KNWA/KFTA) Southwestern Electric Power Company is looking to raise monthly rates, according to a March filing with the Arkansas Public Service Commission. The filing lists that SWEPCO wants to raise residential rates for customers who use 857 kilowatt-hours to $30.46 per month. This indicates a 27.2% increase in monthly rates for residential customers. The companys filing is an effort to raise the retail revenue requirement by SWEPCO from $266 million to $402 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arkoma residents concerned about water rate increase in coming years According to the filing, SWEPCOs last increase in base rates was in 2022. SWEPCO has requested a hearing with the Arkansas Public Service Commission for the week of November 17, 2025. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. By Deniz Uyar, Monica Naime and Pola Grzanka July 29 (Reuters) - The fighters in military-style uniforms pointed their rifles at the three unarmed men and ordered them out onto a sunny balcony, before barking at them to pause. "One minute. You want to film them?" one of the attackers asked his comrade. The unfolding horror, which was already being filmed by one gunman on his cellphone, was delayed for a few moments to allow a second fighter to start capturing the events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Let's go! Throw yourself over," the gunmen yelled at their victims, members of Syria's minority Druze faith. Two of the attackers shot the men one by one as they clambered over the black railing before their bodies tumbled to the street below, according to the footage circulating on social media which was reviewed by Reuters. The victims were Moaz Arnous, his brother Baraa Arnous and their cousin, Osama Arnous, according to a family friend and another cousin who both told Reuters the video showed the three being killed at their home in the southern city of Sweida on July 16. The deaths were among 12 execution-style killings of unarmed Druze civilians carried out at three sites in and around Sweida this month by gunmen wearing military fatigues, according to the footage of the attacks, which was filmed by the killers themselves or people accompanying them and verified by Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another video shows Mounir al-Rajma, a 60-year-old guard at a communal water well, being gunned down by two young fighters after telling them he is Druze, his son Wiam told Reuters. Other footage shows a group of fighters forcing eight civilians to kneel in the dust of a roundabout before shooting them dead, according to a friend and a relative of some of those victims. The videos provide some of the most detailed depictions yet of the bloodshed that erupted in Sweida province in mid-July, initially between local Druze militia and Bedouin tribal fighters and subsequently government forces sent to restore order. The violence killed hundreds of mostly Druze people, according to Reuters reporting and two monitoring groups. Reuters was able to use visible landmarks in each video to geo-locate the incidents. The events depicted and their dates were verified through interviews with seven relatives and friends of the victims. All said they believed Syrian government forces killed their loved ones. The news agency could not identify the attackers in the videos, which were not time-stamped, or determine who first posted them online. The pieces of footage began appearing online after July 18, a review of social media posts found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The media offices of the Syrian defence and interior ministries didn't respond to questions from Reuters on the filmed attacks. Syria's defense ministry said on July 22 that it was aware of reports that an "unknown group" wearing military fatigues committed "shocking and gross violations" in Sweida. It didnt mention execution-style killings targeting Druze people. The ministry vowed to investigate the abuses, identify those responsible and impose "maximum penalties" on perpetrators, "even if they are affiliated with the ministry of defense." On the same day, the interior ministry condemned "in the strongest terms the circulating videos showing field executions carried out by unidentified individuals in the city of Sweida". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RIGHTS GROUP: AT LEAST 1,000 DEAD Syria has been plagued by bouts of sectarian strife since the sudden fall of President Bashar al-Assad and his police state in December last year after 14 years of war. The new government, led by a former Sunni Islamist group that has its roots in global jihad, dissolved Assad's army and sought to integrate dozens of former rebel factions into a national army, but those forces have struggled to fill the security vacuum. Sweida province is predominantly populated by the Druze community, a distant offshoot of Islam that comprises about 3% of Syria's pre-war population of 24 million. The atrocities there came four months after a spree of killings against the Alawite minority, with armed factions affiliated to the new government killing hundreds of people in coastal settlements. The Sweida unrest began on July 13 when longstanding local tensions over land and resources in the province escalated into clashes between local Druze militia and Bedouin tribal fighters, who like government forces largely adhere to the country's majority Sunni faith. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The violence worsened significantly after the Syrian military was deployed to the province on July 14 to quell the clashes and entered Sweida city itself on July 15, according to residents, two war monitors and reporters on the ground. The Syrian Network for Human Rights said 1,013 people have been killed in the bloodshed since July 13, including 47 women, 26 children and six medical personnel. The group said victims were mainly Druze, adding that it wasn't clear how many were fighters or civilians. The network said the vast majority died after the army's arrival led to a sharp increase in fighting. The organization's head, Fadel Abdulghany, told Reuters it had documented execution-style killings by Syrian troops, Bedouin fighters and Druze groups. A forensic pathologist in the city of Sweida, who requested anonymity to speak about sensitive matters, told Reuters he had examined 502 bodies that had been brought to the Sweida National Hospital during this month's violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One was decapitated and two, including a teenage girl, had their throats slit. Most of the others suffered from gunshot wounds inflicted at close range, he said. Reuters could not independently verify the numbers or specific atrocities recounted by the Syrian network and the pathologist. 'ARE YOU MUSLIM OR DRUZE?' The son of Rajma, the 60-year-old water well guard, identified his father in a video verified by Reuters as having been filmed on July 15 outside the Muhammad Salih Nasr School in the town of Thaalah, less than a mile from their home. Rajma is seen sitting on the steps of the school's entrance as at least three young rifle-toting men in military fatigues are heard repeatedly screaming at him, "Are you Muslim or Druze?" The exchange is filmed by someone standing directly next to the fighters and it is unclear if the person is also armed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the older man answers, "I'm Syrian", one fighter responds: "What does Syrian mean? Muslim or Druze?" Rajma says: "My brother, I'm Druze." Three of the fighters immediately open fire. "This is the fate of every dog among you, you pigs," one of them says. In another video verified by Reuters, a group of seven fighters in military fatigues carrying rifles are seen guiding eight men in civilian clothes down a sidewalk. Based on the shop signs and road layout, Reuters identified the street as lying just west of Tishreen Square in the heart of Sweida city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The only visible insignia on the fatigues is a small black patch on the right arm of one of the fighters bearing the Islamic declaration of faith in a design popularized by the Islamic State group. Reuters reporters have also seen some soldiers at checkpoints in government areas wearing them. Syria's defense and interior ministries didn't respond to questions on whether their forces wear the patches. The Islamic State did not mention Sweida in any of their posts on their social media propaganda channels, including in the period after July 13. Reuters couldn't reach a representative for the group. A few seconds into the video, the fighter filming turns his phone camera around to his own face: He's a bearded man dressed in military fatigues, with a red bandana wrapped around his head and the butt of a rifle visible across his chest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The eight victims walk in single file, each resting his hands on the shoulders of the man in front. The last man in line, wearing a tan shirt and sandals, was identified by a friend who watched the video as Hosam Saraya, a 35-year-old Syrian-American citizen. The friend said the older man directly in front of him in line was Hosam's father, and the next man was Hosam's brother Kareem. Most of the others were from the same extended family, the friend added. Dima Saraya, the wife of Ali Saraya - another of the men in line - told Reuters that armed men in military fatigues had surrounded the apartment building where the extended Saraya family lived west of Tishreen Square on July 16 and demanded that the men inside surrender themselves, promising to question them for a few hours and return them home safely. U.S. Senator James Lankford of Oklahoma confirmed that Hosam, who had lived in Oklahoma, "was tragically executed alongside other members of his family in Syria." He didn't give further details. A separate video shows the same eight unarmed men kneeling in the dirt of a roundabout in Tishreen Square. Reuters was able to verify the video's location from the statue in the roundabout and a tower block visible directly behind it. The same friend identified Hosam, his brother and his father among the kneeling men in the second video. At least two fighters fire their rifles directly at the kneeling group, from close proximity and for at least seven seconds. The kneeling men crumple into the dirt and lie motionless as the armed men yell, "God is great." (Reporting by Deniz Uyar, Monica Naime and Pola Grzanka; Editing by Pravin Char) BEREA, Ohio (WJW) In the back of a small shop in Berea, the printers are humming and the orders just keep coming. Lunas Team Shop has created a custom T-shirt to honor officer Phillip Wagner, who was killed last week in an ambush shooting in Lorain. For what theyve given, they have given their life. If we can take the burden off a little, we use the tools that we have, explained Lunas Team Shop President Lisa Zacharyasz. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Funeral procession route announced for fallen Lorain officer Phillip Wagner The front of the shirt features Wagners badge number. On the back is a tribute to his service in the police force and the United States Marine Corps, along with personal requests from those who served alongside him. We usually put EOW on here for end of watch but they didnt want the date he passed. They just wanted to remember that he was a police officer, added Zacharyasz. For each shirt sold, $10 will go directly to Wagners family. The shirts went live at 5 p.m. Monday, and by Tuesday, more than 200 had been ordered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shirts can be ordered here. A public memorial for Wagner is set for Wednesday morning at Rocket Arena in downtown Cleveland. Doors open at 10 a.m., and the service begins at 11 a.m. Law enforcement officers from across the state are expected to attend, along with friends, family and strangers united by a shared sense of loss and gratitude. Downtown pizza shop offering free pizza to officers attending Wagner funeral The Lorain Police Department is asking for privacy for Wagners family and said its overwhelmed by the communitys support. In this case, its a shirt, a message and a promise that Wagners legacy wont be forgotten. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I mean, we make T-shirts for schools and civic groups, but we will stop the presses and start rolling these if it will help a family, said Zacharyasz. There will be a security checkpoint and bag check at Rocket Arena. A funeral procession honoring Wagner is also planned in North Ridgeville on Wednesday morning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) has foiled a Russian plot to kill Serhii Filimonov, the commander of the 108th Separate Mechanized Battalion "Da Vinci Wolves," the agency reported on July 29. The plot was orchestrated by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), which used false-flag tactics and psychological manipulation to recruit a Ukrainian national, according to the SBU. The Da Vinci Wolves battalion, founded during the volunteer wave at the onset of Russian aggression in 2014, has grown into one of Ukraine's most effective combat units. Filimonov is a well-known figure among Ukraine's military leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FSB enlisted a resident of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast by posing as SBU personnel and tricking the man into thinking he was working for Ukraine's interests. According to SBU, the suspect believed he was assisting in the killing of a Russian collaborator when, in fact, he was being directed to assassinate a decorated Ukrainian commander. "This is a fairly new tactic from Russian intelligence," the SBU said. "The FSB manipulated the patriotic beliefs of a Ukrainian who believed that he was helping the Ukrainian security service." The FSB first contacted the man via social media, posing as an SBU officer. They falsely claimed the man had purchased medicine from a company that financed the Russian military and threatened him with prosecution for high treason. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To avoid the fabricated charges, he was offered a chance to "cooperate," which included traveling to Kyiv to assist with surveillance operations. The FSB handler convinced the man that Filimonov was a "traitor" responsible for Russian missile strikes on Kyiv. Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us The suspect rented an apartment near Filimonov's residence, tracked his vehicle, and sent regular photo updates to his handler, unaware he was aiding Russian intelligence. The man received a Kalashnikov rifle from a weapons cache on the outskirts of Kyiv and was ordered to carry out the assassination. SBU operatives arrested him before he could act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators recovered the rifle and communications with his FSB handler from his phone. The announcement follows warnings from Ukrainian drone warfare commander Robert "Madyar" Brovdi, who said Russia attempted a coordinated strike targeting Ukrainian drone unit leaders. The plot against Filimonov appears to be part of a broader Russian effort to eliminate key figures within Ukraine's military leadership through covert operations. Read also: It hits their psyche hard Ukraines drones throw Russias airports further into chaos Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has not been blocked from visiting the United States, Taipei's foreign ministry said Tuesday, insisting he has no plans to travel overseas "in the near future". The remarks came after US President Donald Trump's administration reportedly denied permission for Lai to transit in New York as part of an official trip to Latin America next month. Lai's office had never confirmed his travel plans, but Paraguay, Taiwan's only diplomatic ally in South America, said in mid-July that Lai would visit the country in 30 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Such a visit would likely mean Lai would need to fly through US territory. "There has been no postponement, cancellation, nor any denial of permission for the transit by the US side," spokesman Hsiao Kuang-wei told reporters in Taipei. "Given the ongoing post-disaster recovery efforts in southern Taiwan, the ongoing reciprocal tariff negotiations with the US, and the relevant international situation, the president has no plans for overseas visits in the near future." In Washington, asked about the report, State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told a media briefing that there had been no travel plans presented for Taiwan's president and therefore "nothing canceled." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She reiterated Washington's policy that "transits by high-level Taiwan officials, including presidents, are fully consistent with our long-standing policy and practice. This has not changed." The Financial Times, citing unnamed sources, reported Tuesday that the Trump administration had denied permission for a Lai stopover in New York, after Beijing objected. China claims Taiwan is part of its territory and opposes any international exchanges with the democratic island. Asked about the reports on Tuesday, Beijing's foreign ministry reiterated its opposition to Taiwan's leaders visiting the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This position is consistent, clear, and firm," spokesman Guo Jiakun said. The Financial Times said Lai decided not to travel after he was told he couldn't enter New York. Chinese and US officials held trade talks Tuesday in Stockholm, in a bid to extend a fragile truce in the face of Trump's global tariff war. While the United States does not recognise Taiwan as a country, Washington remains the island's most important partner and biggest arms supplier. Commenting on the Financial Times article, the former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi said the decision "sends a dangerous signal". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But once again, (Chinese) President Xi has achieved a victory over the values, security and economy of the United States in the Trump Administration blocking the democratically elected president of Taiwan from making a diplomatic trip through New York," Pelosi wrote on Facebook. "Let us hope President Trump's denial of this stopover in New York is not indicative of a dangerous change in U.S. policy on Taiwan." Lai had originally planned stopovers in New York and Dallas as part of the trip to Paraguay and Central American allies Guatemala and Belize next month, Bloomberg News previously reported. They are among Taiwan's 12 remaining diplomatic allies. joy-oho/lb/ksb/mlm GUATEMALA CITY/ASUNCION (Reuters) -Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te will delay an expected trip to remaining allies in the Americas that would have taken place next month, embassy officials told Reuters on Tuesday, due to damages from a typhoon and as the island faces more torrential rains. Lai was expected to travel to the Americas next month, as his government seeks to shore up support in a region where many countries have cut diplomatic ties in favor of relations with China, which claims Taiwan as its territory. However, embassy officials in Guatemala and Paraguay said the visit had been postponed until further notice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It had to be postponed because of the typhoon that caused many natural disasters. There is no new date to reschedule the visit," an embassy official in Guatemala City told Reuters. A spokesperson at Taiwan's embassy in Paraguay's capital Asuncion, where Lai had also been expected to visit, told Reuters the Taiwanese leader did not currently plan to travel abroad. Earlier on Tuesday, Paraguayan ruling party congressman Hugo Meza said that the country was "wasting time" maintaining diplomatic relations with the Taiwanese. Paraguay is the only country in South America that still recognizes Taiwan. Lai had also been expected to make stops in Belize and the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sources told Reuters earlier this week Lai would delay the diplomatically sensitive trip his team had floated to the Trump administration for August. The United States has traditionally facilitated transits by Taiwanese leaders, but Lai's trip was bound to infuriate Beijing at a time when U.S. President Donald Trump is trying to negotiate a deal on trade with China. Beijing regularly denounces any shows of support for Taipei from Washington. One of the sources who spoke to Reuters earlier this week said Lai is set to delay the trip until at least later this year for a handful of reasons, including the need to organize his government's response to extreme weather in Taiwan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A person with direct knowledge of the matter said the trip was not being canceled, and eventual U.S. stopovers were likely to include Texas and another city in the U.S. mainland. Lai had considered stopping in New York and Dallas on the way to and from Latin America. Asked about a delay, U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce told a regular news briefing no travel plans had been announced so the issue was "hypothetical." "At this point, there have been no ... travel plans for the president (Lai). There has been, as a result, nothing canceled," she said, while reiterating that U.S. transits by high-level Taiwanese officials "were fully consistent with our longstanding policy and practice." "This has not changed," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taiwan is still recovering from Typhoon Danas, which struck its densely populated west coast this month with record winds and brought widespread damage to its electricity grid and some houses. More recent flooding has submerged streets and buildings in several towns across southern Taiwan this week, and its weather administration has warned that more intense rain could trigger more landslides. (Reporting by Sofia Menchu in Guatemala City and Daniela Desantis in Asuncion; additional reporting by David Brunnstrom in Washington; Writing by Sarah Morland and David Brunnstrom; Editing by Natalia Siniawski and Stephen Coates) Ukrainian special forces destroyed Russian weaponry and personnel during a combat operation on the Tendra Spit, an island off the coast of the occupied area of Kherson Oblast, Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR) reported on July 29. Tendra Spit is a shoal or a narrow island in the northern Black Sea southwest of the Russian-occupied Ukrainian mainland in Kherson Oblast. "On the night of July 28, reconnaissance troops landed on the Tendra Spit and eliminated the position of the occupying forces along with personnel," HUR said in a Telegram post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian forces also destroyed a Russian "Zont" electronic warfare complex and "Rosa" radar station, according to HUR. The agency did not provide details as to Russian personnel losses. HUR described the operation as a "daring landing" and said Ukraine sustained no losses during the raid. The Ukrainian flag was flown over the island. 0:00 / 1 The agency published a video illustrating the planning and implementation of the Tendra Spit operation. "Now we are here, on our Ukrainian land," an operative is heard saying after successfully landing on the island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ukrainians are returning and taking back what is theirs." The operation was supported by partners and donors involved in "Boats for HUR," a project of the Diana Podolyanychuk Charitable Foundation, HUR said. The agency reported that new vessels provided through the project allowed Ukrainian special forces to "operate where they are not expected." HUR previously carried out a raid on Tendra Spit in August 2024, destroying Russian armored vehicles, electronic warfare systems, and fortifications. Read also: Trump says Russia tariffs will be imposed in 10 days Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. ISLAMABAD (AP) The Taliban are exporting Afghan workers to fill jobs in the Gulf nation of Qatar to ease unemployment in Afghanistan, and say talks are underway to send labor to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Turkey, and Russia. Registration opened Tuesday for 2,000 skilled professionals in areas including hospitality, food and beverage, and engineering to go to Qatar under the new program. Applicants from all 34 Afghan provinces can submit their work experience and credentials before being assessed for eligibility. The registration launch follows the forced returns of at least 1.5 million Afghans from neighboring countries, notably Iran and Pakistan, at a time of significant economic and humanitarian difficulty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aid agencies have warned of pressure on local services, as well as dramatically reduced flows of money flowing into the country in the form of remittances from people working abroad. Acting Labor Minister Abdul Manan Omari described the labor export program as a significant and foundational step. He said talks also were under way with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Turkey, and Russia. "We are committed to sending skilled, semi-skilled, and professional workers to these countries in the future as well," Omari said Monday on the social platform X. We are committed to the protection of Afghan workers legal rights and safety abroad. Our goal is to prevent illegal migration and uphold the dignity and honor of Afghan workers," Omari said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While only Russia has recognized the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan, the other countries have diplomatic relations with Kabul. Qatar, which hosts a major U.S. military base in the region, served as a crucial point for those fleeing the Taliban in the chaotic days of the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan in 2021. It also hosts a diplomatic post for the Taliban and hosted peace talks in 2019-20 between them and the U.S. administration of then-President Donald Trump. Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Talibans deputy prime minister for economic affairs, said the Qatar labor initiative would help to ease unemployment and help the economy presumably through remittances. Many Afghans depend on humanitarian assistance to survive. But deep funding cuts are worsening the situation, with aid agencies and nongovernmental organizations scaling back education and health care programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legal process of sending skilled and professional Afghan workers abroad will positively impact the national economy and help reduce unemployment, Baradar said at the programs launch on Monday. He said the government had been working for four years to lower the unemployment rate through foreign and domestic investment, expanded trade relations, and infrastructure projects. In 2023, the Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada met Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Afghanistans southern city of Kandahar, Al Jazeera English reported. It was the first such publicly known meeting between Akhundzada and a foreign official. SPEER, Ill. (WMBD) Tanners Orchard is officially open for its 78th season, kicking off another year of fall festivities, family traditions, and farm-fresh treats just outside of Peoria. Starting Monday, July 28, the fourth-generation family-owned orchard in Speer, Illinois, is once again inviting guests to enjoy classic favorites like apple picking, wagon rides, and its famous fresh cider donuts. New this year are brisket and pulled pork nachos, now available on the farms seasonal menu. Its another exciting year here on the farm; I cant believe its already our 78th season, said co-owner Jenny Tanner. You can tell the energy here is absolutely buzzing. Were all rushing around trying to get the place ready to welcome families back. This years calendar is packed with both beloved traditions and exciting events, and we cant wait to share it with everyone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of those favorites is the all-you-can-eat Blueberry Pancakes and Peaches Breakfast, returning Aug. 2 and 9. The orchard will also be a stop for St. Jude Runners on Aug. 2 as they pass through during the Henry and Stark County to Peoria run. Jennifer Beaver, another co-owner, said opening day is always special. I love it. I love seeing the same people. I love seeing new people, making people happy here and there. They come every year. Its a tradition for them, so its a lot of fun, she said. The 2025 season also includes a blooming Sunflower Field open daily from Aug. 16 through Aug. 30, with themed events like a Butterfly and Ladybug Release Breakfast on Aug. 16 and an adults-only Sunflower Smores N More night on Aug. 23. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cooking with Grandma Tanner returns every Thursday afternoon from August through October. Other highlights this season include: August Blueberry Pancakes & Peaches Breakfast: Aug. 2 and 9 Grandma Tanners Birthday: Aug. 13 Butterfly and Ladybug Release: Aug. 16 Sunflower Field Open: Aug. 1630 Sunflower Smores N More: Aug. 23 Appearances by Elsa and unicorns: every Saturday September Jeep Day at Tanners: Sept. 13 Appearances by Elsa and unicorns: every Saturday and Sunday October Purple Pumpkin Project Fundraiser: all month Elsa and unicorn appearances: every Saturday and Sunday November Christmas Open House: Nov. 8 Santa Breakfast: Nov. 22 Thanksgiving pie orders: Nov. 122 Stock Up for Winter Sale and Cans for Care Food Drive: all month Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tanners Orchard will be open daily through the end of November. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. The Brief A man stole approximately $900 worth of sunglasses from a retail store in the 29300 block of Northwest Freeway on July 24. The suspect was caught on video surveillance and is described as a Black male with full tattoo sleeves and a durag. Authorities are asking for the public's help to identify the suspect. HARRIS COUNTY, Texas - Deputies with the Harris County Precinct 4 Office responded to a theft call at a retail store located in the 29300 block of Northwest Freeway on July 24, 2025. Sunglasses theft What we know Upon arrival, loss prevention reported that between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., an unidentified male suspect entered the business and stole approximately $902.00 worth of sunglasses before fleeing the location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video surveillance captured the suspect. Suspect description Dig deeper The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 5'10", 175 lbs., with a goatee and black hair covered by a durag. He was last seen wearing a black hat with a logo, a black shirt with a white logo, black shorts, white slides, a black cross-body bag, and a Nike bag. Notably, the suspect also has full tattoo sleeves on both arms. What they're saying "If you have any information regarding the identity of this suspect, you are urged to contact our dispatch or your local law enforcement." said Constable Mark Herman. The Source Information in this article was provided by Constable Mark Herman's Office. TAZEWELL, VA (WVNS) An impressive student from Richlands High School has been named a finalist in a statewide competition. Keegan Brown is about to be a senior at Richlands High School, where she is also currently the Vice President of the schools Art Club. Brown was recently recognized as a finalist representing Region 7 in the statewide Expressions of Freedom competition, which was organized by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and Virginias American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the Expressions of Freedom competition, Virginia students in grades 3-12 were encouraged to share their ideas and perspectives through artwork, videos, audio recordings, or essays in response to the question: What does freedom mean to you? ACE Adventure Resort hosting Color Dash for Hope 5K this weekend Brown said that art is something that has always meant the world to her- ever since elementary school. She said that she poured her heart and soul into the piece, and that it felt extra special to receive the news about her achievement from her art teacher, Rebekah Vandyke, who encouraged her to enter the contest. I was very excited when I found out, said Brown. I was at school and my teacher who showed me about the contest was the one who got to tell me that that I was a finalist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Out of 100 submissions, 11 Virginia students were selected and recognized during an event at the state capitol in Richmond on May 20, 2025. One student was selected as a finalist from each of the superintendents eight regions. Three students were selected as the top honors for elementary, middle, and high school. Keegan Brown is the finalist for region 7. On June 18, 2025, the 11 winning entries were placed in a time capsule that will be go inside the restored pedestal of the iconic George Washington statue in Trafalgar Square, London. This statue is a symbol of the iconic landmark image of Washington. The London time capsule is set to be opened in 250 years, creating a lasting link between Virginias students today and future generations. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS. The American Federation of Teachers is teaming up with the World Economic Forum to develop a new classroom curriculum, a move thats already drawing sharp criticism from political observers and education reform advocates. AFT President Randi Weingarten announced the partnership during a July 25 speech, telling union members the collaboration aims to create a curriculum that will lead to good jobs and solid careers in U.S. manufacturing. The World Economic Forum (WEF), headquartered in Geneva and best known for its annual Davos summit, has long championed global economic coordination, climate policy, and digital transformation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics immediately raised concerns about the influence of a foreign-aligned organization on U.S. public school content, particularly one with a record of advocating digital IDs, carbon regulation, and closer industrial ties with China. Corey DeAngelis, a prominent school choice advocate, responded on social media on July 27: Abolish teachers unions. Randi Weingarten just announced "a partnership with the World Economic Forum to create a curriculum" Abolish teachers unions. pic.twitter.com/wfmZXhIAzH Corey A. DeAngelis, school choice evangelist (@DeAngelisCorey) July 27, 2025 The AFT did not immediately release details of the planned curriculum. Still, Weingarten defended the direction of the initiative in her speech, saying education must go beyond test-taking and adapt to a changing economy. The goal of education should be to cultivate the skills necessary to succeed in our rapidly changing world, not to create good test-takers, she said. One attendee at the AFT event in a union video, presumably a union member and teacher, called the speech empowering, inspiring and just what I needed. While the AFT cast the partnership as a workforce development strategy, some political writers such as at TFPP Wire pointed to WEFs praise for Chinas state-managed manufacturing strategy and its ongoing cooperation with Chinese firms and government-linked entities. A recent WEF report asked whether Made in China 2.0 represents the future of global manufacturing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weingarten also used her speech to criticize the current administrations approach to education and technology, taking aim at what she described as an overreliance on standardized tests and insufficient engagement with educators on AI policy. Its insulting that Trump signed an executive order saying teachers need to be trained on AIwithout involving teachers, she said, claiming the administration also attempted to block rules for regulating AI. In contrast, Weingarten announced the launch of the AFTs National Academy for AI Instruction, developed in partnership with Microsoft, OpenAI, Anthropic, and the United Federation of Teachers (UFT). Educators must be able to maximize the good and minimize the bad, to use it safely, wisely and ethically, she said. The Academy, based in New York City, is intended as a training facility for teachers to learn to use artificial intelligence in the classroom. AI should serve our values, support strong instruction and enhance the work that teachers do, never replace it, Weingarten said, emphasizing that educatorsnot corporations or technocratsshould be in the drivers seat of AIs classroom deployment. Beyond technology, Weingarten warned of a broader crisis of engagement in schools, blaming smartphones and social media for distracting students and driving up anxiety levels. She praised New Yorks bell-to-bell school phone ban and cited psychologist Jonathan Haidts research on youth mental health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The AFTs growing interest in shaping industrial and technological education mirrors broader trends at the WEF, which recently hosted dialogues focused on AI, green energy, and labor transitions. A January 2025 WEF blog post described efforts to promote cooperation between labor unions and private industry in areas like semiconductor manufacturing and workforce development. The AFT has previously collaborated with companies like Micron to expand STEM education pathways into high-tech industries. In her speech, Weingarten framed the WEF partnership as a continuation of that mission and insisted it was consistent with American values and economic needs. Still, critics remained unconvinced. Straub described the move as deeply troubling, calling it part of a broader ideological shift within public education. This isnt about improving manufacturing. Its about cementing ideological control over the next generation, the TFPP Wire story claimed. DeAngelis also highlighted a recent AFT resolution that pledged to protect public education from right-wing extremism and teach about the insidious nature of white supremacy, arguing that the union is veering further into political territory. Randi Weingartens union passed a resolution "protecting public education from right-wing extremism." The American Federation of Teachers will teach "about the insidious nature of white supremacy." pic.twitter.com/92PfAwfZvf Corey A. DeAngelis, school choice evangelist (@DeAngelisCorey) July 29, 2025 While the full scope of the new curriculum remains unknown, the partnership with the World Economic Forum is already placing Americas largest teachers union at the center of a high-stakes battle over the future of public education and who gets to shape it. WEST VIRGINIA (WVNS) Professionals around the country have been working to navigate economic uncertainty, and teachers are no exception. Camp SOAR in Fayette County continues to find success with more campers Educators have been stretching budget funds as much as they can in preparation of the coming school year. While West Virginia teachers have traditionally been allotted a set budget amount for classroom supplies each year, some have said the funds dont always meet the need. Each classroom is unique in terms of budgetary needs. Being a band teacher or a band director or music teacher is much more expensive than being a social studies teacher because just the nature of how much the equipment costs, explained Fayette County Schools teacher, Elliott Pritt. I think being a PE teacher or an art teacher is also pretty pricey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pritt, an English and History teacher for Fayette County Schools, said it isnt uncommon for educators to dip into their own personal funds to meet the need for classroom supplies. Whatever their area of expertise, West Virginia teachers have been known to go the extra mile to make sure students have what they need each year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS. On a family trip to Torch Lake, Chris OBrien went to Walmart for some fishing poles and pop. But he left as a witness to a mass stabbing. We just went there to grab some things and be on our way, then absolute terror happened, said O'Brien, 43, of Sparta. He was the man who took a widely circulating video of citizens containing the suspect in a July 26 stabbing at Walmart in Traverse City that left 11 people injured. In it, people surrounding the suspect yell to drop the knife, which he appears to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minutes before the video starts, OBrien and his brother-in-law, Matt Kolakowski, 39, were at the checkout near the entrance with Kolakowski's daughter and her friend when he said they heard someone screaming, Hes got a knife. OBrien and Kolakowski, a Marine veteran, told the girls to stay inside, then headed toward the scene. Kolakowski, who can be seen in the video with no shoes and wearing a purple shirt, grabbed a shopping cart on the way to the scene, and OBrien said they saw the guy stab two people as they moved towards him. OBrien said Kolakowski used the shopping cart to hit the suspect, who police later named as Bradford James Gille. Another person with a shopping cart cornered the suspect before the suspect ran between two cars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats when the big relief of a person with the gun showed up and de-escalated the scenario, OBrien said. OBrien said he started recording for video proof after thinking that the suspect might be shot and killed. What was going through my head is, 'I hope I dont die,' OBrien said. Walmart employee: in recalling stabbing spree: 'I still can't believe this happened' OBrien said the group of citizens didn't know each other until working together in the three to five minutes of chaos it took to stop the stabbing. It was, it was a great team effort between all the guys involved, OBrien said. None want the shining light. Were absorbing it, but its not anything wanted. They did very well as a team. We werent going to stop. The guy was not getting away. My brother-in-law expected to get stabbed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the incident, OBrien said he found out the suspect was in the store for 30 minutes before the stabbing. While shopping around the store earlier, his niece and her friend were in a different section than Kolakowski and OBrien. We had them in harm's way (unknowingly), OBrien said. Anything could have happened. We could have gotten stabbed. Though he and his brother-in-law told the girls to stay in the store and out of the parking lot, he said they ended up going out to the truck and calling the rest of the family back at the hotel. After the incident, they said they were at Walmart for another hour, giving a police statement. OBrien said he thought three people had been stabbed and didnt realize it was 11. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was crazier to us when we heard chaos break out for 10 seconds in the store," he said. "We didnt know if he stabbed random people throughout store. We dont know how it all happened. OBrien said he didnt realize this would be a national story. It seems like a massive deal, and it is a terrible thing, we get it, but we see other terrible things that dont get the stories," he said. "We wondered if it was a terrorist attack. We have no idea. OBrien said he was surprised this happened, but he wont let it deter him from returning to the area. Nothing about this makes sense, OBrien said. Why did he go off that deep end to do this? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect, Bradford James Gille, was arraigned on one count of felony terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder in the 86th District Court in Grand Traverse County on July 28. As of the morning of July 28, one victim of the stabbing remains in serious condition, while five victims are in fair condition, two patients are in good condition, two patients were treated and transferred and one patient was treated and released from the hospital, according to Munson Healthcare. Contact Natalie Davies at ndavies@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Walmart mass stabbing witness: 'Team effort' contained suspect Senate Commerce Chair Ted Cruz said Tuesday that he will introduce a bill that would force changes to the way the military uses helicopters around congested airports, including prohibiting the Army from turning off location-transmitting technologies such as the one under investigation as part of an inquiry into the January midair collision near Washington that killed 67 people. Cruzs announcement comes a day before the kickoff of a three-day federal fact-finding hearing into a January midair collision between a commercial airplane and an Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The hearing will be conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board, an independent agency probing the accident. The technology Cruzs bill seeks to mandate, known as ADS-B Out, was not transmitting on the helicopter involved in the disaster. The NTSB is still investigating whether the crew had switched off the technology which allows air traffic controllers to see an aircrafts speed, altitude and location or if it was simply not operational. Its final report on the disaster's causes isn't expected until next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We should not tolerate special exceptions for military training flights operating in congested airspace, no matter the circumstances. Any aircraft flying near commercial traffic must fully adhere to safety standards, Cruz said during a press conference debuting the bill. Cruz was accompanied by some of the family of those who died in the crash as well as officials investigating the catastrophe, including NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy. The Armys propensity to operate without the technology enabled for flights in the Washington area has drawn sharp scrutiny from Congress since the crash. At the time of the accident, the Armys policy was to keep its helicopter transponders off during sensitive or classified missions with commander approval, according to Brig. Gen. Matthew Braman, who testified at a March Senate hearing on the crash. In a statement in response to a New York Times report earlier this year regarding the events leading up to the fatal January crash, the Army said it cautions against speculating about potential causes or contributing factors prior to the NTSB completing its investigation, and further stated it was irresponsible to take snippets of information and present them in a way that casts blame on any individual or group. The Army previously told POLITICO it would not comment on pending legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Currently, the military can operate flights closer to airports without ADS-B enabled if they obtain an exemption from the FAA for whats considered a "sensitive government mission. Cruzs bill would narrow the definition for what kinds of flights qualify, to exempt training flights. However, the bill doesnt fully prohibit the routine transport of government or political VIPs, which Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has blasted the Pentagon since the accident. (On the night of the crash, officials have said the crew was flying for a training mission.) Duffy, speaking alongside Cruz on Tuesday, said by and large, this is the right approach. Leaders became complacent, and we had warnings of near-misses in the D.C. airspace unacceptable, he said, adding that upholding safety standards is not partisan. I look forward to working with you and your colleagues to advance this cause, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cruzs bill also would require the FAA to issue a rule requiring all civilian aircraft operating near airports to have the ADS-B technology that would allow other aircraft to see one another; the same standard would apply for military and law enforcement aircraft, according to a summary of the changes provided to the media on Tuesday. This legislation will save lives, added Homendy, who will lead this weeks NTSB fact-finding hearings into the crash. Homendy said the ADSB-In provision itself which the independent agency has been calling for more than 20 years will be a game changer, when it comes to safety. Earlier this year, the FAA prohibited Army flights to and from the Pentagon within Washington airspace until the agency finished reviewing its agreement with the DOD that governs the procedures to access that airspace. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford on Tuesday said that agreement was nearly complete, and would still give some leeway to support our warfighters' training needs, but did not elaborate further. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), the committees ranking member, introduced similar legislation, S. 1985, earlier this year. It also would require the FAA to establish a coordination office to oversee military aircraft flights and also prompt carriers to include ADSB-In within four years of the bills passage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Doug Lane, speaking on behalf of the families of those lost on board the regional PSA Airlines flight, on Tuesday lauded Cruzs particular provision for stronger ADS-B requirements in the bill, as well as the requirement for the Army inspector general to conduct an audit into the Army's role in her accident. Lane lost his wife and son in the crash. The Army inspector general would also have to probe any systemic issues that contributed to the Jan. 29 incident, which was the worst U.S. aviation disaster in more than two decades. The legislation would require a review of all helicopter routes that come in close proximity to other aircraft across the country, which the FAA in part has already begun since the January crash. The same applies to a study specific to airspace surrounding Reagan National, according to the summary of the legislation provided to media. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) also introduced a limited bill that would bar all aircraft, including military aircraft, from operating in congested airspace unless the aircraft has ADSB In and ADSB Out equipment. Moran is also a sponsor of Cruzs bill, and on Tuesday said Cruz adopted his provision into the larger bill. Sam Ogozalek contributed to this report. A 17-year-old boy was ordered held pending a dangerousness hearing on charges in connection with a shooting at Holyoke Mall on Friday afternoon, the Hampden district attorneys office said. At around 4:30 p.m. on July 25, a Holyoke Mall security officer saw a person shoplifting and alerted police. When police approached the suspect near the entrance to Round One, he pulled out a gun, Hampden County District Attorney Anthony Gullunis office said in a statement. Both the suspect and one officer fired their weapons. The officer was not hit, but the teen sustained at least one gunshot wound, according to the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holyoke officers provided medical aid to the boy, who was taken to Baystate Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. Police found a gun at the scene, according to the statement. The teen was arrested and arraigned virtually on Monday in Springfield Juvenile Court. At the arraignment, the teen was held without bail based on a dangerousness detainer. Probable cause was found and a dangerousness hearing was set for Aug. 4. A judge set bail for the teen at $100,000 cash, without prejudice. Prosecutors say they intend to pursue a youthful offender indictment for the teen, which would allow the judge to sentence him as a juvenile or adult, should he be convicted or plead guilty. Youthful offender cases remain in Juvenile Court, but are public, unlike most cases there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This harrowing situation could have ended much worse. Juveniles and guns is a recipe for disaster, said Gulluni. The juveniles alleged behavior is appalling and we will seek accountability to the fullest extent of the law. We are grateful that no innocent people or officers were injured. Holyoke Police Chief Brian Keenan emphasized the mall was a safe place to visit during a press conference immediately after the shooting. The shooting remains under investigation. More News Read the original article on MassLive. PARMA, Ohio (WJW) A teenager is facing a felonious assault charge after an alleged road rage incident turned physical and sent an 87-year-old man to the hospital. Parma police officers responded the evening of July 23 to State Road and West Ridgewood Drive for reports of an assault. Funeral procession route announced for fallen Lorain officer Phillip Wagner The victims wife told police that she was in the car with her husband when a driver in a black pickup truck cut him off. The man rolled down his window and confronted the other driver which led to verbal obscenities and hand gestures, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the next stop light, the victim and the driver of the pickup, who police said was a 17-year-old boy, stopped and got out of their vehicles. The teen then punched the man in the head, knocking him onto the ground, police said. The teenager drove away after the altercation and the victim was taken to a hospital where he continues to be treated for his injuries. Family SUV hydroplanes, crashes on I-71; father dead Detectives were able to locate the pickup truck and arrested the 17-year-old, who is now charged with felonious assault. Detectives continue to gather information as the case moves through Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. Odessa, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- Odessa Police have arrested and charged a 17-year-old in connection with the fentanyl-related death of a 19-year-old man earlier this year. Kaden Welch has been charged with Murder, a first-degree felony, following a months-long investigation that began in early May. According to the Odessa Police Department, officers responded to a medical call on May 2 in the 1300 block of Sunset. There, they found a 19-year-old male unresponsive. He was transported to a local hospital but died on May 13, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the investigation, OPD detectives obtained a search warrant for the victims social media accounts, which led them to Welch. Police believe Welch supplied the victim with an M30 pill, often associated with counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl, in exchange for an undisclosed amount of money. Welch was interviewed by detectives on June 16, and the investigation pointed to his involvement in the transaction. An autopsy report received July 28 confirmed the cause of death as toxic effects of fentanyl. Based on that report and other evidence gathered, a murder warrant was issued for Welch, who was already in custody on unrelated charges. Police have not released the name of the 19-year-old victim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case remains under investigation and Welch remained in custody in the Ector County Law Enforcement Center as of Tuesday morning; his bond has not yet been set. Why is fentanyl so dangerous? Fentanyl is so deadly because its not regulated and the people lacing drugs with fentanyl cant and dont control the amount put into the product. The Drug Enforcement Agency said seven out of every 10 M30 pills tested contained a lethal dose of the drug. M30s are round, blue pills made to look exactly like prescription oxycodone pills and are the most common drug linked to overdose cases involving teens in the area. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. SALUDA COUNTY, S.C. (WJBF) A South Carolina teen has died after falling out of a boat into Lake Murray on Monday, the Saluda County Coroners Office said Tuesday. According to authorities, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources search and rescue teams were called to the scene after an unoccupied boat was located in the lake by the Saluda County Sheriffs Office. The DNR dive team later recovered the body of the boater around 8:30 p.m. on July 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim has been identified as 17-year-old Bryson L. Burns of Lexington, S.C. According to the coroners office, Burns was the sole occupant of a small johnboat and fell in the water earlier that afternoon. Saluda County Coroners Office, S.C. Department of Natural Resources and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Divisions Child Fatality Unit are investigating the incident. The Saluda County Coroners Office extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Bryson Burns, a statement from the coroners office reads in part. This tragic loss is felt deeply throughout the community, and our hearts are with all who knew and loved him. An autopsy is expected to be performed this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF. AKRON, Ohio (WJW) An 18-year-old man was shot in the ankle while waiting for a bus. According to Akron police, shortly after midnight on Sunday, July 27, officers responded to the 500 block of Vernon Odom Boulevard for a shooting. PHOTO: Cedar Point floods amid storms, downpours Upon arrival, officers said they found an 18-year-old had a gunshot wound to his ankle. The victim told police he was waiting at the bus stop when an unknown suspect started shooting at him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim was transported to Cleveland Clinic Akron General for treatment. Theres been no word on a suspect in the case. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. Doug Kreulen, president and CEO of Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, Gov. Bill Lee and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announce a plan for Elon Musk's Boring Company to build an underground tunnel from the airport to Downtown Nashville. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout) Tennessee leaders joined an Elon Musk companys officials Monday in announcing plans to bore an underground tunnel dubbed the Music City Loop from downtown Nashville to burgeoning Nashville International Airport. Musks Boring Company initially would dig a 10-mile tunnel from the Music City Center to the airport on the citys southeast side using land beneath state-owned roads. All-electric vehicles, possibly Musks Teslas, would be used to carry riders on an eight-minute transit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a press conference at the airport Hilton, Gov. Bill Lee said the estimated two-year project would be privately funded and not require any public money or tax breaks. A press release from the Governors Office said the company plans to start construction as soon as the approval process is complete and the first part of the loop could be operating by fall 2026, though the governor said environmental permits would not be expedited. Lee declined to give an estimated cost for the tunnel but said it will transform the way people travel from the airport to downtown Nashville. Officials predicted the loop will remove thousands of vehicles from Nashville roads, though neither state officials nor Boring Company President Steve Davis gave many details about ride estimates or costs. Davis admitted digging a tunnel through Middle Tennessees limestone will be difficult but said the company makes safety a priority. Customers should be able to walk out of the airport and be less than 100 feet from the tunnel to downtown Nashville, he said. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy called the underground tunnel innovation at its finest. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout) Davis credited Nashville with being so welcoming and kind for the projects quick takeoff and said the tunnel could branch out across Middle Tennessee with numerous stations eventually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy attended Mondays announcement, calling the project innovation at its finest. He said the project will have federal support. It also has the backing of the Tennessee and Metro Nashville Chambers of Commerce, the Metro Nashville Airport Authority, which is tied up in a lawsuit with state over board appointments, and the Greater Nashville Hospitality Association. Nashville Mayor Freddie OConnell did not attend Mondays press conference. But Lee said the mayor is supporting the project. U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn in a video address to the events audience said Boring Company received a 99.57% safety and security rating from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Transportation Security Administration for its work on the Vegas Loop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nashvilles Democratic legislative delegation wasnt invited to Mondays press conference, and Rep. John Ray Clemmons criticized the proposal afterward, saying Musk found an easy target in starry-eyed Bill Lee. No responsible executive would give away unrestricted and unlimited underground property rights to an unhinged billionaire, who (President) Donald Trump doesnt even trust anymore, and grant him and his company exclusive access rights beneath our city and a monopoly to profit in perpetuity, Clemmons said in a statement. Clemmons said problems have arisen from the Las Vegas project because of a lack of oversight and regulations, and he questioned potential consequences of the Nashville projects environmental impact as well as threats posed by boring on the citys aged stormwater and fragile wastewater system. The plan marks the second project Musk is undertaking in Tennessees two biggest cities. An artificial intelligence facility under way in Memphis is drawing opposition from Democratic state Rep. Justin Pearson, who says it will create more pollution that the citys residents will be forced to breathe. U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn expressed support for the project via video. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout) The Boring Company is in the midst of building the Vegas Loop, a 2.2-mile tunnel that uses Tesla vehicles to carry riders. Initially, it was to have 29 miles of underground tunnels connecting 51 stations around central Las Vegas but fell under criticism for focusing on tourism spots instead of helping workers commute from home to work, according to reports. The project involves the use of Tesla vehicles to transport riders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A similar tunnel proposal was made in 2018 as part of former Mayor Megan Barrys $5.4 billion plan to improve transportation. That idea, which was to be funded by a sales tax increase, failed by a 64-36 margin in a local referendum after Barry resigned amid scandal. The plan included 24 miles of light rail and 25 miles of bus rapid transit. Nashville Mayor OConnell is pushing a new transportation plan, expected to cost $3.1 billion over 15 years, that would focus on increased bus routes, transit centers, park and ride facilities and new sidewalks and bike routes. Mondays proposal displays a shift in attitude for airport officials who recently responded to WSMV questions by saying, Since late 2024, there have been numerous rumored and/or hypothetical discussions regarding connecting Nashville International Airport to downtown via tunnel, just like the theoretical discussions regarding the possibility of colonizing Mars in the future. At Mondays event, Metro Nashville Airport President and CEO Doug Kreulen said, this potential initiative is an important step toward easing roadway congestion and enhancing access to the airport. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) The Tennessee Housing Development Agency is working to expand access to affordable housing in the state for those who have an affordable housing voucher but cannot find a landlord who will accept it. According to the agency, around 6,200 Tennesseans receive affordable housing vouchers, but around 600 struggle to find a landlord who takes them. The new project-based voucher program will allow the state to assign vouchers to new affordable housing developments to help ease the problem. Its an effort to take some of the vouchers we do have and make them available for development to basically give a property that has a unit that will have that voucher assigned to that unit, so it doesnt have to be somebody who finds it, Jeremy Heidt with the TN Housing Development Agency said. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts The agency presented the plans to lawmakers during a recent Government Operations Committee Rule Review hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Affordable housing is an issue not just in urban areas, but in rural areas as Ive learned firsthand traveling around the state over the past few years, Rep. John Ray Clemmons (D-Nashville) said. Access to affordable housing is a serious issue. The TN Housing Development Agency representatives told lawmakers that due to the high interest in the project-based voucher program, they would initially dedicate 5% of the vouchers to the new project-based voucher program before asking HUD to expand to 20%. However, some lawmakers questioned whether potential cuts to federal funding could put the program at risk before it gets underway. Is there any type of ironclad assurance that the feds couldnt snatch this money back up? Rep. G.A. Hardaway (D-Memphis) said. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Not that Im aware of, Heidt responded. I know that THUD and the federal system is going through the appropriations process right now for HUD. I dont know their plans right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Government Operations Committee gave the project a positive recommendation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. The Russian Revolution of 1917 shook the world and sparked a series of revolutionary events internationally. In this article, Konstantin Korn and Emanuel Tomaselli look at the way the revolutionary process unfolded in Austria towards the end of the First World War, including an overview of the general strike of January 1918, and how the Social-Democratic leaders betrayed the movement. [This article was originally published as part of issue 47 of In Defence of Marxism magazine, get your copy here] In the summer of 1914, the slaughter of the First World War began. The Austrian Social Democratic Workers Party (SDAP), formerly considered one of the model parties of the Second International, completely capitulated to the mood of patriotism and war fever that swept the Habsburg Empire. The support of the SDAP leaders for the Habsburg war machine was a shock to most of the party ranks. In effect, the leadership paralysed the party, blocking any activity that could upset the war effort. But by early 1915, a handful of young socialists and trade unionists started illegal work, organising resistance against the war. A group of left Social Democrats around the young revolutionary socialist Franz Koritschoner the newly formed Linksradikalen (Left Radicals) learned about the efforts to organise the scattered internationalists at the Zimmerwald conference. In this way they got in contact with the Bolsheviks grouped around Lenin in Zurich. They started to build an organised opposition within the Austrian Social-Democratic movement, after the second international anti-war conference in Kienthal in 1916. The Left Radicals would become the first nucleus of the future communist movement in Austria. Through Karl Radek, they established contact with the Left Radicals in Germany, who produced an internationalist paper which they then distributed in Austria. The Left Radicals called for systematic propaganda amongst the working class, taking an internationalist class position on the war. Their initiative, however, was persecuted by the party leadership and refused by the left reformists. Radicalisation The initial patriotic fever, however, didnt last long. By 1916 it had become obvious that there was no end in sight to the war, which had already racked up a massive death toll. The troops in the trenches faced unimaginable horror, whilst workers on the home front were gripped by hunger. It was in this context that Friedrich Adler son of Victor Adler, the founding father of the SDAP shot the Austrian prime minister in a desperate act of protest against the war. Adler defended himself with an impressive speech at his tribunal, in which he condemned the imperialist warmongers and the passive role his party was taking towards them. As a result he became a hero in the eyes of the war-weary masses. Lenin, in a letter to Franz Koritschoner, defended Adlers act of terrorism against the moralistic condemnations in the SDAPs press. But Lenin also explained that as revolutionary tactics, individual attacks are inexpedient and harmful. According to Lenin: Adler would have been of much greater help to the revolutionary movement if, without being afraid of a split, he had systematically gone over to illegal propaganda and agitation. [...] Not terrorism but systematic, prolonged, self-sacrificing activity in revolutionary propaganda and agitation, demonstrations, etc., etc., against the lackey-like opportunist party, against the imperialists, against ones own governments, against the war that is what is needed.[1] Without doubt such revolutionary propaganda and agitation would have found fertile ground. The unbearable conditions in the factories, with workers forced to work 12-14 hours a day, the militarised regime in the workplaces, and widespread hunger, all served to radicalise the working class. As a result, the number of strikes and bread riots increased significantly in the winter of 1916-17. Revolution for peace The news of the overthrow of Tsar Nicholas II in February 1917 had an electrifying effect across Europe. It showed to the internationalist activists that the war really could be ended through a revolution. Such was the mood on a day in May 1917 that when a worker collapsed from hunger at the Arsenal the biggest arms factory in Vienna which employed 20,000 workers the workforce immediately walked out. Within hours, most of the factories in Vienna had joined them in solidarity. It was clear that a revolutionary situation was developing. The government became afraid that the revolutionary events in Russia could be repeated in Austria. They therefore decided to give the reformist leaders of the SDAP more freedom of action, in order to provide a safety valve to release some of the pressure building from below. They reasoned that by promoting the reformists to the head of the growing movement, they would guide the energy of the masses into safe channels from the point of view of the regime. As such, the SDAP press was allowed to call for peace, and the party was integrated into the states welfare programme. The SDAP, organised a public meeting for Peace on 11 November 1917. Their plan was for 2,000 selected labour movement officials to come together in the Konzerthaus to listen to the party leaders. But as events transpired, the Bolsheviks successfully took power on 7 November, which sent a shockwave around the world. The Arbeiter Zeitung referred to it as a revolution for peace. Instead of the stage-managed SDAP meeting on 11 November, 15,000 workers showed up for a tumultuous rally, which had to be accommodated in a nearby skating rink. Thousands of workers then marched to the Ministry of War in Vienna out of the control of the party leaders to celebrate the victory of their Russian brothers and sisters. This was another manifestation of the developing revolutionary ferment in society. Brest-Litovsk The Bolsheviks Decree on Peace, which they passed immediately after they took power, gave hope to the masses all over Europe. The subsequent peace negotiations in Brest-Litovsk (modern-day Brest, Belarus) between Soviet Russia and the Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire and Bulgaria) started on 22 December. They were the hot topic for weeks to come. Trotsky, who represented Soviet Russia at Brest-Litovsk, skillfully used the proceedings as a platform to expose the predatory interests of the imperialists of all sides. Whilst the Bolsheviks called for a democratic peace, without annexations or indemnities, the imperialists of the Central Powers, mainly the more confident German generals, sought to grab all they could from the new workers state. As such, all the imperialists talk about defence of the fatherland, and protecting the rights of small nations to self-determination was revealed as deception before the eyes of millions. This strategy definitely had an effect on the minds of the mass of workers in Austria and Germany, who followed the reports from Brest-Litovsk with great attention. Lenin and Trotsky firmly believed that the Russian Revolution was only the starting point of the world revolution. The chain had broken at its weakest link, but due to the impact of the imperialist war and the Russian Revolution itself, would continue to break in other countries. The Habsburg Empire was clearly the next candidate for revolution. In the winter of 1917-18 the regime had reached its material limits. Three-and-a-half years of war had consumed most of the economic resources of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the unresolved national question mainly the oppression of the Slav peoples added to its unavoidable fall. It desperately needed to get out of the war in order to safeguard the regime. However neither its imperialist allies (Germany), nor its enemies (Britain, France and the USA) would accept Austria-Hungary leaving the war by itself. Given this blockage at the top, and the pressure for peace building from below, the negotiations in Brest-Litovsk were a catalyst for the revolutionary processes in Austria. Tensions reach boiling point In the winter of 1917-18 the Left Radicals played an important role in organising anti-war protests in Vienna. Their group of around 100 comrades had become the focal point of the revolutionary youth movement, and they had managed to build strong links to a network of worker activists in the armaments industry. Government war bond poster from 1916 depicting the double-headed eagle of the Austro-Hungarian Empire with Vienna in the background / Image: public domain Together they started to plan for a general strike on 24 January with the aim of ending the war. Linked to this, they propagated the idea to form workers councils as organs of workers power, following the example of the Russian soviets. They founded an organisation called the Workers and Soldiers Council in December 1917 for this reason. But events developed faster than the group imagined. The attempt by the German and Austrian governments to shipwreck the peace talks with Russia provoked enormous discontent. In response to the growing pressure from below and to control the heated mood in the factories, the SDAP, organised massive rallies for peace for 13 January 1918. Despite the leaderships best efforts to control the situation, a social explosion nevertheless erupted in the factories the very next day. Trotsky later commented positively on these events: During a pause in the negotiations, which lasted about ten days, there developed in Austria a tremendous ferment and labour strikes broke forth. These strikes signified the first recognition of our method of conducting the peace negotiations, the first recognition we received from the proletariat of the Central Powers about the annexationist demands of German militarism.[2] It was clear that the revolutionary process was developing. The January strike On 14 January 1918 the already low flour rations were cut once again by half. For the masses, this was the straw that broke the camels back. When news of this spread in the early hours in Wiener Neustadt an industrial town south of Vienna where the Left Radicals had one of their strongholds workers at the Daimler motor factory refused to start the machines and met in the courtyards. Their response was unanimous: Strike! They marched to the town centre, carrying banners calling for an immediate peace and down with the government, and started to gather in workers councils, Arbeiterrate, which were essentially the Austrian equivalent of soviets. A strike committee was elected and took the decision to approach the other factories in the town and nearby areas. Within hours, 10,000 workers from the whole industrial district in southern Lower Austria were on strike. This region later became known as the Bethlehem of Austrian communism. Workers councils came into being everywhere. What started as an economic struggle within a day developed to a revolutionary mass movement calling for the end of the war by any means. The young Left Radicals spread the news of the strike movement to the factories in Vienna, and even to Berlin. In their leaflet The People Arises!, published on 16 January, they wrote: The masses do not want neither victory nor the glory of weapons, they want immediate peace, peace by any means necessary. The interests of the masses are not represented by the government, but by Lenin and Trotsky with their international principals of the self-determination of the peoples.[3] The Left Radicals leaflet popularised a programme of four demands: Immediate ceasefire on all fronts! The peace delegates for any negotiations have to be elected by the people! The militarisation of all workplaces has to be abolished immediately! All restrictions on the right of association and any other political freedoms have to be removed! Friedrich Adler and all the other political prisoners have to be released immediately! The leaflet boldly called for workers of all other countries [...] to rally around the red flag of the Russian Revolution! [...] Mistrust the patriotic workers 'leaders'. Elect workers councils like in Russia and victory will belong to the mass power of the proletariat![4] The ideas of Trotsky at Brest-Litovsk were clearly getting an echo. Such was the mood that on 17 January, Karl I, Emperor of Austria, sent the following telegram to Foreign Minister Graf Czernin in Brest-Litovsk: I must once again assure you most emphatically that the entire fate of the monarchy and dynasty depends on the conclusion of peace in Brest-Litovsk as soon as possible. For Courland, Livonia and Polish dreams we cannot overturn the situation here. If peace doesn't come about, there will be revolution here, no matter how much there is to eat. This is a grave warning at a grave time.[5] Reformists co-opt the movement The leadership of the Austrian labour movement in the period before the war had built up an enormous political authority. But this was shaken under the new conditions of war and growing radicalisation, which was finding only inadequate expression in the traditional mass organisations. Fraternisation of German and Russian soldiers after the armistice on the Eastern Front in December 1917 / Image: public domain This put the Social-Democratic leadership in a difficult situation. How were they to wrest back control over this unforeseen movement from the revolutionary elements that were coming to the fore? On 16 January, after two days of hesitation, they decided to ride the tiger and called for the spreading of the strike movement to all of Austria, and to call for the election of workers councils in all industrial areas. Their main slogan was the end of the war as soon as possible.[6] This slogan in itself was in no opposition to the needs of the regime. By 18 January the number of striking workers grew to 100,700 in Vienna, 122,622 in Lower Austria, and the strikes spread to Upper Austria, Styria, Budapest, Cracovia, Brno, Trieste and elsewhere. By 19 January the strikes involved 750,000 workers. The Left Radicals did not have the necessary strength to lead a movement of this scale. The objective conditions not only for a general strike but for a successful revolution existed everywhere. A popular saying in those days was: Lets talk Russian to our rulers! The newly formed workers councils, however, were now under control of the reformists. Most representatives were elected in the workplaces, and therefore reflected the mood on the ground. But the SDAP and trade union bureaucracies also sent their officials and leaders directly into the councils, which gave the reformists a clear advantage. The revolution betrayed Otto Bauer, the theoretical leader of the left reformists (the Austro-Marxists), later wrote in his balance sheet on the Austrian Revolution: We wanted the strike as a big revolutionary demonstration. The escalation of the strike to revolution itself, we could not want.[7] As a petty-bourgeois tendency, the Austro-Marxist leadership refused a revolutionary break with capitalism, and did everything they could to keep the bourgeoisie in power. This was a conscious political orientation, as Lenin had pointed out since the start of the war. Although they briefly played with the Russian Revolution as a means to stabilise the situation of the Habsburg regime, ultimately they saw Bolshevism as a threat to their leading position in the labour movement, which had to be fought by all means. Bauer tried to justify his counter-revolutionary position with the excuse that were there a successful revolution in Austria, it would be met immediately with an invasion of German troops. But in reality, the coming to power of the Austrian working class would have had an incredible impact amongst the working class in Germany, where a revolution was also developing. A class-based appeal to German troops and workers to follow their lead would have had an electrifying effect. The sending of German troops in such conditions would have rapidly accelerated the revolutionary process. Facing the workers uprising, the reformist leaders knew they had to present results to pacify the workers. On 17 January, echoing the programme of the Left Radicals, they published a declaration to the government with four demands: The peace negotiations must not fail because of territorial demands and should be conducted by constant information and under the conditioning influence of representatives of the working class. Reorganisation of the food supply for the population. Democratisation of the municipal vote. End to the militarisation of the workplaces.[8] This sounded similar to the programme of the Left Radicals, but did not pose the key question of power. In fact, the demands had been agreed with the government in advance, who were prepared to accept them promising further negotiations on the issues in exchange for the Social Democrats calling off the strike. On 21 January the eighth day of the movement the workers council in Vienna, controlled by the reformists, voted with a big majority to end the strike. In several meetings, however, there were heated debates, as many workers were furious at the suggestion that the strike could be called off at this critical stage, when they wanted nothing less than an immediate end to the war. A number of factories continued the strike for some days, and new cities entered the movement, but they were left isolated by this sellout. The strike was broken and the leaders of the Left Radicals were imprisoned or sent to the front. They were charged with high treason for calling for the overthrow of the existing order and the Austrian state. With the Left Radicals shattered, there was no visible political force capable of helping the workers to draw the necessary conclusions from this defeat. The developing revolutionary movement was derailed by this wave of state repression, which had severe consequences for the process of the formation of the Communist Party in the coming months. The Social Democracy had regained its control over the working class for the time being. The end of the January strike was a setback for the revolutionary movement, but it was not the end of the story. The depth of the revolutionary process was shown in the first days of February 1918 with the mutiny of the sailors in the Adriatic port Cattaro (modern-day Kotor, Montenegro). This mutiny under the red flag was clearly influenced by the January strike, but came when the strike movement was already finished. In June a new wave of strikes and mutinies erupted in several regions of Austria. The missing subjective factor The January strike marked a major change in the way the Austrian Social Democracy viewed the Russian Revolution. From now on they presented themselves as open enemies of Bolshevism. Karl Kautsky, the theoretical leader of the Centrist wing of the Social Democracy and a critic of the October Revolution, became the mouthpiece of the Austro-Marxists. In 1918 he waged a polemic against the Bolsheviks arguing that: The Bolshevik Revolution was based on the supposition that it would be the starting point of a general European Revolution, and that the bold initiative of Russia would summon the proletariat of all Europe to rise. [...] According to this theory, the European Revolution formed the best defence of the Russian Revolution. [] The Revolution which would bring about socialism in Europe would also be the means of removing the obstacles to the carrying through of socialism in Russia, which are created by the economic backwardness of that country. This was all very logically thought out, and quite well founded, provided the supposition was granted, that the Russian Revolution must inevitably unchain the European Revolution. But what if this did not happen? The supposition has not yet been realised.[9] Kautsky shamefully hid the fact that the revolution did indeed spread to Russias neighbours in Europe, as the Bolsheviks predicted. And that it was precisely the reformist leaders of the Social Democracy who consciously betrayed the revolution when it first emerged in Austria in January 1918. They would do so again in the coming months, whenever the revolution developed insurrectionary features both in Austria and Germany. The proclamation of the Republic of German-Austria, 12 November 1918 / Image: public domain The intervention of the masses finally brought the war to an end. In the autumn of 1918 the mass of soldiers, workers and peasants from the different corners of the empire, had enough. They were not prepared to die anymore for the emperor in Vienna. Soldiers deserted en masse. The army command chain collapsed and the various nationalities that had been oppressed under the empire split off and formed their own states, such as Czechoslovakia, Hungary and the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (later renamed Yugoslavia). In Vienna, tens of thousands of soldiers dominated the life of the city in the last days of the war. They called for better conditions and refused to accept the authority of the officers. A new army was formed, the Volkswehr (People's Militia), which was controlled by the soldiers' councils. In this situation also the workers took the initiative, went on strike, and organised a mass demonstration in the city centre to call for the end of the monarchy. Terrified of the masses, the deputies of German-speaking Austria elected the Social Democrat, Karl Renner, to be the chancellor of a newly formed German-Austrian state. And on 12 November, the new Republic of German-Austria was proclaimed from the parliament building in Vienna, three days after the proclamation of the German Republic in Berlin. On the ground, power was in the hands of the working class, which was armed. But with the Social Democrats of both Austria and Germany thrust into government, their reformist leaders did everything possible to hand power back to the capitalists, confining the revolution to the establishment of a democratic republic and the promise of eventual unification into a single German Republic. The problem therefore was not the lack of revolutionary opportunities for the workers of Europe to take power, but the lack of the subjective factor the presence of trained revolutionary parties and leaders capable of guiding these revolutions past the inevitable betrayals of the reformists. To help build such a leadership was therefore the urgent task that Lenin and Trotsky set themselves with the founding of the Third International. References [1] V I Lenin, To Franz Koritschoner, Lenin Collected Works, Vol. 35, Progress Publishers, 1973, pg 238-239 [2] L Trotsky, At Brest-Litovsk, The Proletarian Revolution In Russia, The Communist Press, 1918, pg 350 [3] Quoted in H Hautmann, Die verlorene Raterepublik, Europa Verlag, 1971, pg 51, our translation [4] ibid. [5] Quoted in H Hautmann, Geschichte der Ratebewegung in Osterreich 1918-1924, Europaverlag, Wien 1987, p. 157, our translation [6] Arbeiter-Zeitung, Vol. 30, No. 16, 16 January 1918, pg 1, our translation [7] O Bauer, Die osterreichische Revolution, Wiener Volksbuchhandlung, 1923, pg 65, our translation [8] Arbeiter-Zeitung, Vol. 30, No. 17, 17 January 1918, pg 1 [9] K Kautsky, The Dictatorship of the Proletariat, National Labour Press, 1919, pg 62-63 Pope Leo XIV made a surprise appearance in a crowd of 120,000 young Catholics who gathered on Tuesday in Rome for the Vatican's Jubilee of Youth -- an event that takes place every 25 years. The week-long event is taking place just over two months after Leo XIV became the head of the Catholic Church and the first American pope. Since Monday, groups of pilgrims -- chanting and draped in flags of their countries -- have flooded the streets of Italy's capital and the corners of the Vatican City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Vatican had last week said it expected some half a million people from more than 150 countries to take part, with this year's events dedicated to faith and culture. Some 120,000 people attended the opening mass at St Peter's Basilica Tuesday evening, according to the Vatican, where the Pope said he had a special welcome for people from regions affected by war, naming Ukraine and Palestine. Afterwards, he made a surprise appearance in the crowd aboard his "Popemobile". The week will culminate with a giant mass led by Pope Leo on Sunday. The Jubilee of Youth is aimed at people aged between 18 and 35. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pilgrims told AFP the subjects they most wanted to discuss at the events were wars, climate change, social inequalities and the dangers linked to AI. "The most important topic for me is war. Everyone is talking about it, thinking about it, and we want to know what the pope thinks about it and what he expects from us," said 25-year-old Tiago Santos from Portugal. The event is taking place after almost two years of Israeli bombardment of Gaza, which has left tens of thousands of Palestinians dead and UN groups warning of starvation in the blockaded territory. Thousands have also been killed in Ukraine since Russia's 2022 invasion, with Moscow continuing deadly attacks despite Western pressure to end its campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teophanie Nasta, a 26-year-old from Lebanon travelling overseas for the first time, said that despite the conflicts in the Middle East she was filled with "faith in humanity by seeing so many young people" gathered for the church. In an unprecedented move, the Vatican dedicated a series of events to Catholic influencers -- a sign of growing importance of social media for the church. Speaking to them on Tuesday morning, Pope Leo warned against the dangers of undermining "human dignity" in the AI era. bur-gv/jxb TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun says a new bipartisan bill that was introduced by Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) would help the City of Terre Haute redevelop and reimagine abandoned or rundown buildings, according to a press release. Last Thursday, Senator Banksalong with Senator Mark Warner (D-Va) introduced the Revitalizing Empty Structures Into Desirable Environments Act (RESIDE), which will help communities turn rundown or abandoned buildingssuch as warehouses, factories, hotels, strip malls, and other unused spacesinto new housing options. The bill would set aside funding within the House Investment Partnership Program (HOME)starting in 2026for a new pilot program to help communities repurpose these blighted properties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This effort will help support both single-family and multi-family homes, all while not including any new spending in the bill. Indiana House Ways and Means debates extensive amendment to property tax bill Owning a home is such a big part of the American dream. But with prices so high, especially for young people, we have to get serious about building more homes, said Sen. Banks. This bill is a commonsense way to revitalize our communities and give more families a real chance to buy a home. Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun said the RESIDE Act is a unique opportunity and looks forward to what it could do for the City of Terre Haute and the entire Hoosier state as a whole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The RESIDE Act is a unique opportunity to redevelop and reimagine blighted properties. The city of Terre Haute is looking forward to working with the federal government to put these funds to use in the great state of Indiana, said Mayor Sakbun. The issue of abandoned or rundown buildings across the City of Terre Haute has been something Mayor Sakbun has been addressing since taking office in 2024. We found some ways, internally, to increase our demolition numbers by 33% without adding a dollar, so, as you see, in July (2024), were going to take down another 28 homes or commercial buildings in the city of Terre Haute, said Mayor Sakbun during his first City Update in 2024. Mayor Sakbun announces 27 blighted properties to be demolished this July Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vincennes Mayor Joe Yochum is also looking forward to what this could mean for the City of Vincennes. Any program that would assist in taking blighted or less desirable properties and turning them into workforce housing would be beneficial to all communities, as we are all dealing with the lack of quality housing. Other Indiana mayors have also shown their support for the RESIDE Act, including mayors from Fort Wayne, Noblesville and Bloomington. Hoosiers sent Senator Banks to DC to produce results for our communities. The RESIDE Act, introduced by Senator Banks, would put measures in place to revitalize blighted properties and spur economic growth and opportunities, said Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen. This bill will have lasting benefits for the Hoosier state and local communities that receive the grant dollars to redevelop blighted properties. Local communities often look for ways to reinvest in existing infrastructure, and this bill does that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump administration looks to slash HUD workers tackling the housing crisis As communities work against several barriers to provide housing for residents, creative approaches to housing are welcome. We commend Senator Banks for creating legislation to support the use of HOME dollars to address the nations need for housing that works, said Bloomington Mayor Kerry Thompson. There is no one-size-fits-all way to address affordable housing, said Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker. We need to rehab, repurpose, and build our way out. Federal funds that make the American Dream possible are always appreciated in Fort Wayne. Thank you to Senator Jim Banks for helping to make HOME funds available and supporting pilot programs like this. To read more statements issued by Indiana mayors regarding the RESIDE Act, you can do so here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyWabashValley.com. Jul. 28Abner Antillon's shooting death in 2022 came moments after he stopped his vehicle on a residential street in the South Valley to confront a man who had shouted at him to "slow down." A jury last year acquitted Joseph Gonzales, 46, of first-degree murder in Antillon's killing but failed to reach a verdict on a lesser charge of second-degree murder. Prosecutors this week are asking a 2nd Judicial District Court jury to convict Gonzales of second-degree murder. The trial is scheduled to continue through Friday before Judge David Murphy. Gonzales' attorney, Marcus Cameron, told jurors Monday that Gonzales acted in self-defense when he fired four gunshots, fatally striking 35-year-old Antillon three times, including two shots to the back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Joseph Gonzales was a man who was forced to take action that led to the death of Abner Antillon," Cameron said in opening statements. "He was forced by Abner Antillon to take those four shots. This case is about self-defense." Assistant District Attorney Emilie Edmonds showed jurors video taken by a neighbor's security camera that captured much of the fatal confrontation. "The evidence is going to show that this was not done in self-defense," Edmonds said in opening statements. On Aug. 29, 2022, Bernalillo County Sheriff's deputies responded to a 911 call from Joseph Gonzales and found Antillon fatally shot beside his International Scout in the 1600 block of Val Verde SW, near Isleta and Blake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors allege that Gonzales fatally shot the unarmed Antillon in the back as he was retreating to his vehicle. Jurors viewed a video and audio recording made from a neighbor's house that showed Antillon driving his vintage red International Scout on Val Verde as Gonzales is standing outside his home. Gonzales can be heard on the video shout "slow down" after Antillon drives past. Antillon then backs up and gets out of his vehicle to confront Gonzales, the video shows. The two men have a largely inaudible conversation for about half a minute before Gonzales pulls a handgun and fires four gunshots, fatally wounding Antillon. After the shooting, Gonzales walked to Antillon's vehicle and appeared to rummage through the front. Gonzales called Antillon an "idiot" and shouted, "now you are dead, dumb---" as Antillon lay on the ground beside his vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Edmonds told jurors to pay attention to "the statements made by (Gonzales) during the altercation with Mr. Antillon, where Mr. Antillon suffered his injuries to the back, and Gonzales' demeanor throughout this entire investigation." Antillon's killing came only a month after Gonzales testified in the July 2022 trial of his brother, Fabian Gonzales, in the death of 10-year-old Victoria Martens. A judge sentenced Fabian Gonzales in October 2022 to 37 1/2 years in prison after a jury found him guilty of child abuse resulting in death, seven counts of tampering with evidence and conspiracy. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) is taking legal action against a New York county clerk for refusing to file a judgment and court summons against a doctor who allegedly prescribed and mailed abortion medication to a woman in Texas. Paxtons office has submitted a petition seeking a writ of mandamus to force Ulster County Clerk Taylor Bruck to enforce the judgment against the doctor and ensure she pays the Texas penalty, according to a statement. Bruck confirmed to The Hill that the attorney generals office has tried to file documents related to the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paxton sued New York doctor Margaret Carpenter in December for allegedly violating Texass abortion ban after she prescribed and mailed abortion pills to a 20-year-old Texas woman. A Texas judge ordered Carpenter to pay more than $100,000 in penalties for prescribing the medication, but neither she nor her attorney appeared at a court hearing or responded to the lawsuit. The attorney generals office then urged the Ulster County clerks office to enforce the civil judgment in March and requested it authorize the collection of the penalties. Bruck refused to do either, arguing New Yorks shield law protected Carpenter from either action. Earlier this month, Paxtons office asked Bruck to enforce the judgment and penalties again, and the clerk again refused to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rejection stands. Resubmitting the same materials does not alter the outcome, Bruck said in a statement. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) and the states Attorney General Letitia James (D) have stood firm on their position to protect Carpenter from extradition or other legal ramifications for providing abortion medication to a patient located outside the state. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has repeatedly tried to file a judgment against a New York doctor and our response has been clear: hell no, Hochul said in a statement Monday. New York is one of 18 states and Washington, D.C. that have enacted an abortion shield law, Lizzy Hinkley, senior state legislative counsel at the Center for Reproductive Rights, told Time magazine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These laws are meant to provide abortion providers with some form of protection for providing care to patients who live in states with restrictions on abortion. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. AUSTIN (KXAN) In the next few weeks, students will head back to school. That will include tens of thousands of veterans taking advantage of education benefits they earned from serving in the military. According to the Texas Veterans Commission, or TVC, recent reports show that more veterans utilize their VA education benefits in Texas than in any other state in the nation. The TVC is the organization that assists veterans with using education benefits. The TVC said Texas currently has 79,525 veterans and their dependents using their educational benefits, citing numbers recently released by the VA in its Benefits for Veterans Education report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nearly 80,000 Texans account for over half the national total of 156,530 people using the G.I. Bill. According to the TVC, Texas also leads in the number of beneficiaries using Survivors and Dependents Education Assistance (DEA). DEA is granted to dependents or surviving spouses of veterans who either died, were captured or missing, or have been determined to be permanently and totally disabled from a service-connected causes, according to the TVC. Of the 79,525 Texans using veteran education benefits, 29,710 are DEA. Education is essential to a better future and stronger workforce. Im proud that TVC Veterans Education has helped tens of thousands of students to use the benefits they earned, Tom Palladino, TVC Executive Director and Army veteran, said in a press release. The fact that Texas also leads the nation in veteran Survivors and Dependents Education Assistance shows the synergy within TVC. Our Claims Department works tirelessly on veteran disability ratings and compensation, and that veterans disability rating can impact eligibility for a dependents education benefits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Locally, Austin Community College has a Veterans Resource Center dedicated to supporting veterans, active duty, and military family community members. ACC was recognized by Gov. Greg Abbotts office last year for its program. ACC was one of 21 colleges in Texas that received a Veteran Education Excellence Recognition Gold Award in 2024. Bethann Warwick, manager of the Veterans Resource Center at ACC, said the colleges program connects with military individuals from the beginning of their time at the college and stays connected with them all the way through helping them find jobs after they finish school. Some other things ACC offers through that program that Warwick mentioned were its transition guide program for first-time ACC students, which helps transition them out of the military and into the community, and events and activities that help connect them with the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas has the largest veteran population of any state, at over 1,543,160, per the TVC. It also has the highest number of disability compensation claims filed: more than 300,000 since August 2022. Veterans in Texas can find assistance in filing for and receiving their benefits at no cost from the TVC on its website. Those seeking assistance with education benefits should contact the TVC Veterans Education Department. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. City officials in Kerrville were largely unprepared for the devastating floods that struck the Hill Country on July 4, according to newly released city communications, including emails and text messages obtained by KSAT through public records requests. The documents include a text exchange involving Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice, in which he appeared to mock U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Hours before a July 5 press conference, held alongside federal, state, and local officials to update the public on rescue efforts, a city employee texted Rice, "Just saw you met Homeland Barbie. How is she?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rice replied, "Basically Homeland Barbie," followed by a string of laughter. Noem Says Criticism Of Federal Response To Texas Flooding Is All Politics: Disservice To Our Country Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem participates in a round table event with President Donald Trump at the Hill Country Youth Event Center to discuss flash flooding on July 11, 2025 in Kerrville, Texas. The nickname, and similar terms like "ICE Barbie," have circulated online to satirize Noem since her appointment as DHS Secretary earlier this year. Read On The Fox News App The exchange has raised eyebrows given the gravity of the disaster response and growing criticism of how it was handled. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., has sharply criticized the federal response, alleging it was politically motivated. While not directly blaming Noem for the flooding itself, Murphy accused the Trump administration of undermining FEMAs readiness, claiming FEMA personnel were fired while flood victims were actively calling the agency for help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Noem defended the federal response in an interview on Fox News Sunday, earlier this month, pushing back on allegations of delay. She stated that more than 700 FEMA workers were on the ground within hours of a call with Texas officials. She also noted the Coast Guard was deployed immediately following that conversation. Despite her defense, concerns persist at both the state and local levels. Trump Administration's Texas Flood Disaster Response 'Fundamentally Different' From Biden's Approach: Noem Rain falls over a makeshift memorial for flood victims along the Guadalupe River, Sunday, July 13, 2025, in Kerrville, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) At the state level, Texas officials have long resisted calls to implement a warning siren system along the Guadalupe River, where the flooding proved most fatal. Critics argue that such a system could have saved lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Separately, a controversial reorganization by the Trump administrations Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) led to the dismissal of a key National Weather Service emergency coordination officer just months before the disaster, raising additional questions about institutional readiness. The tragedy has left Kerrville and surrounding communities demanding accountability and systemic reform before the next storm strikes. Noem Rips Cnn Report Claiming She Delayed Dhs Response To Texas Flood As 'Absolutely Trash' DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and Gov. Greg Abbott, discuss the ongoing efforts for recent flooding along the Guadalupe River during a news conference in Ingram, Texas, on Saturday. The catastrophic flooding claimed at least 137 lives across Texas, with 108 fatalities reported in Kerr County alone. Among the dead were 27 campers and staff members at Camp Mystic, a century-old Christian summer camp for girls in the town of Hunt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities are now investigating whether Camp Mystic officials received and appropriately responded to flash flood warnings prior to the tragedy. The incident has sparked broader questions about how youth camps and other vulnerable institutions assess and act on rapidly evolving weather threats. Fox News Digital reached out to Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice and the Kerrville city officials, but did not receive a response. Fox News' Stephen Sorace and Asher Redd contributed to this report. Original article source: Texas local official caught mocking DHS Secretary as 'Homeland Barbie' after deadly floods The Brief Texas Rep. Greg Casar is speaking out about the way immigration laws are being enforced in courtrooms The Trump administration has been aggressive in its promise to carry out mass deportations Casar said some did not have legal representation and did not get a chance to present their case TEXAS - Democratic U.S. Congressman Greg Casar is speaking out about the way immigration laws are being enforced in Texas courtrooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration has been aggressive in its promise to carry out mass deportations. According to the White House, ICE arrests are up 92% in Texas, when compared to this time last year. "We have the most secure border right now under President Trump and Secretary Noem, and this only sets us back with these radical left agendas," said Attorney and Former White House Staff Secretary Derek Lyons. Dig deeper Recently, the White House has challenged certain amendments in the U.S. Constitution, including the right to due process regardless of legal status, as well as birthright citizenship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are constitutional rights, like the right to due process," said Susham Modi, an attorney at Modi Law Firm. "It's a way for the federal government to quickly deport somebody without a court hearing. What's unprecedented about this is that they had the court hearing, and then those cases are trying to be dismissed." The Trump administration stated that its goal is to make the country safer and has directed ICE to target convicted criminals who are in the country illegally. "We always build our operations or investigations on casework on knowing individuals that we needed to target because they were criminals, because they had conducted violent crimes against individuals in their communities," said U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Greg Casar speaks on immigration policies What they're saying But not everyone agrees with the execution of these policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic U.S. Congressman Greg Casar of Texas went to a courthouse in San Antonio on Monday to sit in on immigration court proceedings, which he called 'deeply disturbing.' "What I saw in the courthouse today: complete disrespect for and no due process for these immigrants showing up at court," said U.S. Congressman Greg Casar. Casar said some did not have legal representation and did not get a chance to present their case. "Once you ignore the constitutional rights and due process of immigrants, then that is a slippery slope to starting to ignore due process and constitutional rights for families as well," said Casar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Casar said he was also bothered by the lack of translation because they did not understand what was happening. "I was the first person to tell this man that he was likely about to be deported," said Casar. "He then showed me his thumb, which had been clearly chopped in half, severed, where he said that he had been tortured in Venezuela for being an advocate at their national Congress." Other states have reported ICE agents waiting outside of immigration courts to make arrests. "When he stepped one foot out of this courtroom, there was a whole group of federal officers," said Casar. "They handcuffed him and then threw him on a bus to God knows where." The Source Information from U.S. Congressman Greg Casar and previous coverage AUSTIN (Nexstar) The nine-member Senate select committee on redistricting is planning to vote Wednesday on whether to subpoena an assistant attorney general to testify. The Department of Justice official is the author of a letter that has been cited as the reason Gov. Greg Abbott placed redistricting on the special session agenda. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Senate committee would subpoena senior DOJ official over redistricting The DOJ letter that was sent on July 7, addressed to Abbott and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, said the DOJ had serious concerns regarding the legality of four of Texass congressional districts. Those four districts are all currently represented by minority congressional members. Concerns around DOJ letter Harmeet K. Dhillon wrote the letter and Texas Democrats in both select redistricting committees are pushing for her to testify publicly about why the DOJs Civil Rights division believes the four districts were racially gerrymandered, even though Texas Republicans have testified that the current congressional maps were drawn race-blind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want her to be able to defend their position in going after these majority minority districts, State Sen. Carol Alvarado, D Houston, said. She, along with Democratic state senators Juan Chuy Hinojosa and Borris Miles, are requesting Dhillon be subpoenaed. A report from NBC 5 in Dallas found Paxtons office sent a response to the DOJ saying it did not agree with the departments interpretation of the congressional maps. Nexstar reached out to the states Attorney General office to ask about the reported response. A spokesperson provided a statement from Paxton in an email that said, I fully support Governor Abbott calling a special session for the Texas Legislature to conduct congressional redistricting to take advantage of recent changes to the legal and political landscape. The statement went on to say, My office stands ready to support President Trump, Governor Abbott, and the Texas Legislature in their redistricting goals and will defend any new maps passed from challenges by the radical Left. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before public testimony began on Tuesday, Senate committee chair Phil King, R Weatherford, also said he did not agree with the DOJs interpretation of Texas map. I dont think the map that is in place for Congress today is discriminatory. I dont agree with the DOJ letter but I havent seen their underlying facts to it, King said. Efforts continue to have the DOJ testify King sent a formal invitation over the weekend to Dhillon to testify. House committee chair Cody Vasut, R Angleton, sent another formal invitation on Sunday to Dhillon to testify in front of his chambers committee. Before the Senate committee began hearing testimony on Tuesday, King said his team was setting up a space in the Capitol to hold a formal meeting for Wednesday to vote on whether or not to subpoena Dhillon. Alvarado wants to make sure that hearing is livestreamed and recorded for the public. I think its extremely important that this whole process considering its rarity, unusualness, unprecedented situation that we be as transparent as possible, Alvarado said on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two-thirds of the committee will need to vote yes on the subpoena for it to be issued. There are only three Democratic members on the Senate committee and its unclear how the other six Republican senators would vote. I would hope that all of my colleagues want to hear from Ms. Dhillon, Alvarado said when asked if she believes her Republican colleagues will vote in subpoenaing Dhillon. I would think that they want to know why theyre here in the middle of the summer as well in mid-decade doing redistricting. Sen. King said his office is seeking legal counsel because he is unsure if the legislative committee has any power to compel a federal official or someone not in Texas to testify to their committee. Alvarado still believes the committee should still issue the subpoena and allow Dhillon or any other DOJ official the choice to testify at their discretion. Currently there is no new map up for consideration in either redistricting committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. A ceasefire agreed between Thailand and Cambodia took effect at midnight (1700 GMT Monday), temporarily halting heavy fighting along their shared border, though Thai authorities reported violations by Cambodian forces in several areas just hours later. Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said on Tuesday afternoon that there had been attacks from Cambodia and that Thailand had responded purely in self-defence. He said he had written a letter of protest due to Cambodia's violations of the agreement, addressed to, among others, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his US counterpart Marco Rubio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Thai military posted on social media platform X that "the Cambodian side violated the ceasefire agreement, with disturbances and weapon attacks found in multiple areas." "The Thai side responded to the situation by deploying front-line forces and using supporting weapons to suppress the Cambodian military operations," it added. Thailand's government accused Cambodia of "ongoing and arbitrary" attacks in a statement but emphasized that they wanted to adhere to dialogue. Cambodia's Defence Ministry, by contrast, said the situation remained calm. Thai interim Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai suggested he agreed with this assessment, reporting of single shoots fired by "undisciplined soldiers" at most. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The premiers of both South-East Asian nations had met in Malaysia on Monday and agreed to an "immediate and unconditional" ceasefire after days of deadly clashes over a long-simmering border dispute. The talks were brokered by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and included representatives from the United States and China. Malaysia holds the chair of Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) this year. Meeting of military leaders to confirm ceasefire The ceasefire agreement was confirmed at a meeting of military officials from Thailand and Cambodia at the border on Tuesday morning. A suspension of all troop movements was agreed, according to a statement from the Thai army. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A meeting of the General Border Committee, already announced on Monday, was also confirmed for the coming Monday, August 4. This is a bilateral body for cooperation on border issues. The cross-border violence, which erupted on Thursday along the more than 800-kilometre border, has left people dead and injured on both sides, many of them civilians. More than 200,000 people have been displaced. Each side blames the other for sparking the clashes, and the exact cause of the escalation remains unclear. Trump calls himself "President of PEACE" Before the meeting in Malaysia between Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand's Wechayachai, international pressure had been mounting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US President Donald Trump had urged both governments to halt the fighting, warning that planned US tariffs - set to take effect in early August would not be lifted unless hostilities ceased. After the meeting in Malaysia, Trump took to his Truth Social social media platform to write: "I am pleased to announce that, after the involvement of President Donald J. Trump, both Countries have reached a CEASEFIRE and PEACE ... "I have instructed my Trade Team to restart negotiations on Trade. "I have now ended many Wars in just six months I am proud to be the President of PEACE!" A ceasefire agreed between Thailand and Cambodia took effect at midnight (1700 GMT Monday), temporarily halting heavy fighting along their shared border, though Thai authorities reported violations by Cambodian forces in several areas just hours later. The Thai military said on social media platform X that "the Cambodian side violated the ceasefire agreement, with disturbances and weapon attacks found in multiple areas." "The Thai side responded to the situation by deploying frontline forces and using supporting weapons to suppress the Cambodian military operations," it added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cambodia's Defence Ministry, by contrast, said the situation remained calm. Thai interim Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed this assessment, reporting of single shoots fired by "undisciplined soldiers" at most. The leaders of both South-East Asian nations had met in Malaysia on Monday and agreed to an "immediate and unconditional" ceasefire after days of deadly clashes over a long-simmering border dispute. The talks were brokered by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and included representatives from the United States and China. The ceasefire agreement was confirmed at a meeting of military officials from Thailand and Cambodia at the border on Tuesday morning. A suspension of all troop movements was agreed, according to a statement from the Thai army. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cross-border violence, which erupted on Thursday along the more than 800-kilometre border, has left people dead and injured on both sides, many of them civilians. More than 200,000 people have been displaced. Each side blames the other for sparking the clashes, and the exact cause of the escalation remains unclear. US President Donald Trump had previously urged both governments to halt the fighting, warning that planned US tariffs - set to take effect in early August would not be lifted unless hostilities ceased. After the meeting in Malaysia, Trump wrote on Truth Social: "I am pleased to announce that, after the involvement of President Donald J. Trump, both Countries have reached a CEASEFIRE and PEACE." Thailand has accused Cambodia of "deliberately" violating a ceasefire the two countries agreed on Monday to end border clashes that have killed at least 33 people and displaced thousands. It's a shaky start for the ceasefire, which is aimed at bringing an end to five days of bombardment and rocket attacks along their shared border. The Thai military says it stopped firing after midnight, but that it continued to receive gunfire from the Cambodian side "at multiple locations" up until this morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Cambodia's defence ministry told the AFP news agency that there had been "no armed clashes" between the two sides since the ceasefire began at midnight. Despite the accusations, meetings between local commanders from both sides took place earlier on Tuesday as part of the ceasefire agreement. They agreed to stop shooting and halt the movement of troops on the frontline. They will also allow each other to collect their dead. Tensions between the South East Asian countries over their century-old disputed border ramped up in May when a Cambodian soldier was killed in a clash. They escalated into a full-scale conflict last week after five Thai soldiers were injured in a landmine explosion. Thailand closed some of its border crossings, expelled the Cambodian ambassador and recalled its own from Phnom Penh. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the two sides exchanged gunfire early last Thursday, Cambodia fired multiple rockets into Thailand, killing several civilians. More civilians died on both sides in the following days, and tens of thousands more were evacuated to shelters. Intense exchanges of fire between the two armies continued up to midnight on Monday, the deadline for the ceasefire, with Thailand launching more air strikes on Cambodian positions. But on Tuesday morning, before Thailand alleged the ceasefire had been violated, Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet said that the "frontlines have eased" since midnight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the ceasefire agreement, both sides are meant to pull back their armies and accept some kind of independent monitoring to prevent further clashes. Hun Manet and his Thai counterpart Phumtham Wechayachai had met on Monday in Malaysia in a meeting brokered by its leader Anwar Ibrahim. An outgunned Cambodia had been pushing for a ceasefire and its leader called it a "very good meeting". Thailand, which had initially been reluctant to negotiate, agreed to the talks after US President Donald Trump threatened to halt negotiations over tariffs until Thailand and Cambodia stopped fighting. [BBC] A dispute going back decades Relations between Thailand and Cambodia took a turn for the worse in 2008 when Cambodia tried to register an 11th Century temple located in the disputed area as a Unesco World Heritage Site - a move that was met with heated protest from Thailand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the years there have been sporadic clashes that have seen soldiers and civilians killed on both sides. When tensions ramped up in May, the relationship between the two countries hit its lowest point in more than a decade. In the past two months, both countries have imposed border restrictions on one another. Cambodia banned imports from Thailand such as fruits and vegetables, and stopped importing power and internet services. Both countries have also strengthened their troop presence along the border in recent weeks. July 29 (UPI) -- Thailand said Tuesday that Cambodia violated their hours-old cease-fire that ended days of fighting between the neighbors over their disputed border. The cease-fire went into effect at midnight Monday, halting fighting that began Thursday, which caused the deaths of more than 30 people and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. In a statement Tuesday, Thailand accused Cambodian forces of deliberately violating the cease-fire agreement by attacking several areas within Thai territory. The attacks consisted of weapon fire, which the Royal Thai Army said it responded to in defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is deeply regrettable that at the designated time, the Thai side continued to detect that the Cambodian side had used weapons to attack Thai territory at multiple points, which constitutes a deliberate violation of the agreement with the intention of destroying the system of mutual trust," the Royal Thai army said in a statement. "The Royal Thai Army therefore condemns such actions, and the Thai side finds it necessary to implement appropriate retaliatory measures under the legitimate right of self-defense." Cambodia's military has rejected the accusation, saying it has "strictly adhered to the orders and agreements under the cease-fire." "Cambodia has made a clear and firm commitment to respecting and implementing the terms of the Joint Cease-fire Declaration between the Cambodian and Thai armed forces," a spokesperson for Cambodia's Ministry of Defense said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two neighbors have been battling for decades over their disputed border, but tensions spiked earlier this month when five Thai soldiers were injured, including one who lost a leg, due to a landmine within the Thai-Cambodian border region. Fighting erupted Thursday, with each side blaming the other for firing first. However, a cease-fire was reached Monday during a meeting in Malaysia that was brokered by the United States with China in attendance. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai of Thailand said in a statement that they have lodged a formal protest over Cambodia's alleged violation of the cease-fire agreement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the United States and China "to make it clear that cease-fire violations stem from Cambodia's lack of honesty and sincerity." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "At present, the government has ordered all branches of the military to remain fully deployed in order to uphold Thailand's sovereignty and protect the safety of the people," he said. "Thailand will not allow any infringement on its sovereignty under any circumstances." Despite the alleged violation, regional military commanders from both sides held discussions to explore ways to resolve the conflict. PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia Thailand and Cambodia agreed Monday to an unconditional ceasefire during a meeting in Malaysia, in a significant breakthrough to resolve five days of deadly border clashes that have killed dozens and displaced tens of thousands. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai agreed to a halt in fighting, starting at midnight, while appearing with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during a meeting held under U.S. pressure in the Malaysian administrative capital of Putrajaya. The Cambodian and Thai leaders hailed the meetings outcome and shook hands at the end of a brief news conference. An Associated Press journalist in Cambodia reporting from close to the border with Thailand where artillery duels had been taking place said the sounds of shelling stopped about 10 minutes before the ceasefire came into effect. Reports from other fronts in the fighting were not immediately available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fighting began Thursday after a land mine explosion along the border wounded five Thai soldiers. Both sides blamed each other for starting the clashes, that have killed at least 35 people and displaced more than 260,000 people on both sides. Anwar, who hosted the talks as annual chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations regional bloc, said both sides have reached a common understanding to take steps to return to normalcy following what he called frank discussions. This is a vital first step towards de-escalation and the restoration of peace and security, Anwar said. The Malaysian meeting followed direct pressure from President Donald Trump, who warned that the U.S. might not proceed with trade deals with either country if hostilities continue, giving both sides a face-saving justification for backing away from the fighting. In a statement later Monday on social media, Trump said the two sides had reached a CEASEFIRE and PEACE... I am proud to be the President of PEACE! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the ceasefire deal, military commanders from both sides will hold talks Tuesday to defuse tensions while Cambodia will host a border committee meeting on Aug. 4. Anwar said. The foreign and defense ministers of Malaysia, Cambodia and Thailand have also been instructed to develop a detailed mechanism to implement and monitor the ceasefire to ensure sustained peace, he added. Hun Manet said he hoped that bilateral ties could return to normal soon so that almost 300,000 villagers evacuated on both sides could return home. It is time to start rebuilding trust, confidence and cooperation going forward between Thailand and Cambodia, he said. Phumtham said the outcome reflected Thailands desire for a peaceful resolution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The joint statement on the agreement said that the United States was a co-organizer of the talks, with participation from China. The Chinese and American ambassadors to Malaysia attended the meeting that lasted over two hours. In a press statement, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was involved in arranging the meeting, applauded the ceasefire declaration. Rubio said he and Trump are committed to an immediate cessation of violence and expect the governments of Cambodia and Thailand to fully honor their commitments to end this conflict. News of the ceasefire deal brought relief and hope to evacuees from both sides. Some women at a crowded evacuation shelter in Surin, Thailand, shouted for joy. Im happy about that, and feeling a bit relieved, said Usa Dasri, a vendor and farmer. We miss our home. There are many small things Im worried about, livestock and rice fields. I dont know what mightve happened to them. I want to go home, so Im happy. I also think about our soldiers at the frontline. I want them to be safe and have a good sleep like us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also credited outside diplomacy for the breakthrough. Without them, our two countries would have had a hard time negotiating both sides have quite a hard time talking and understanding each other, she added. SURIN, Thailand (AP) A ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia appeared shaky but remained in place Tuesday as tensions lingered despite a truce agreement to end deadly border clashes following economic pressure from the U.S. The ceasefire reached in Malaysia was supposed to take effect at midnight on Monday, but was quickly tested. Thailand's army accused Cambodia of launching attacks in multiple areas early Tuesday, but Cambodia said there was no firing in any location. While some spillover had been anticipated in the hours immediately after the ceasefire took effect, a Thai government statement late Tuesday said that a new clash had broken out at at one of the locations where there had previously been heavy fighting. The Thai army reported exchanges of gunfire into Wednesday morning but said there was no use of heavy artillery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jirayu Houngsub, a spokesperson for the office of Thailand prime minister, said in a text message to journalists that the Thai military is currently responding and controlling the situation at Phu Makhuea, a mountain in a disputed area next to Thaikand's Sisaket province. Commanders meet Thailand's army had said the morning fighting stopped after military commanders along the border from both sides met. They agreed to halt troop movements, avoid escalation and establish coordination teams before a joint border committee meeting in Cambodia on Aug. 4, army spokesman Major Gen. Winthai Suvaree said. Cambodian Defense Minister Tea Seiha said that he spoke to his Thai counterpart about incidents that occurred during the implementation of the ceasefire, but stressed that Cambodia's army abided by the truce. He said that Cambodian defense officials would lead a delegation of diplomats, foreign military attaches and others to observe the situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Thai government separately said it has complained to Malaysia, the U.S. and China about Cambodias alleged breach of the ceasefire agreement. There were signs of calm along the border, with some of the more than 260,000 people displaced by the fighting returning to their homes. U.S. pressure Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand's acting prime minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, had agreed on Monday to an unconditional halt in fighting, which has killed at least 41 people. The meeting was hosted by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim as annual chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. He called the ceasefire a vital first step towards de-escalation and the restoration of peace and security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that Washington applauded the ceasefire declaration. President (Donald) Trump and I are committed to an immediate cessation of violence and expect the governments of Cambodia and Thailand to fully honor their commitments to end this conflict, Rubio said in a statement. Hun Manet said Tuesday that Trump had called to offer congratulations for the peace move. He posted on social media that Trump pledged the U.S. would join the monitoring process along with Malaysia to ensure the ceasefire is implemented. Trump also called Phumtham after his return to Bangkok. Phumtham said that Trump told him that Thailands talks with Washington to negotiate tariff levels on Thai exports could now proceed and that he would seek to make them as favorable as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ceasefire comes days before the U.S. is expected to announce new trade tariff decisions. Cambodia and Thailand have both been two of the hardest-hit countries as a result of Trumps trade measures, with a 36% tariff on goods from both countries taking effect this coming Friday. Trump had warned that the U.S. might not proceed with trade deals with either country if hostilities continued, giving both sides a face-saving justification for halting the clashes. Wary border residents Cambodia and Thailand have clashed in the past over their 800-kilometer (500-mile) border. The fighting began Thursday after a land mine explosion along the border wounded five Thai soldiers. Tensions had been growing since May when a Cambodian soldier was killed in a confrontation that created a diplomatic rift and roiled Thailands domestic politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents on both sides of the border expressed relief about the ceasefire, but remained wary, unsure how long the peace would last. I am very concerned that new fighting may break out. Thailand often provokes the fighting first, but then accuses Cambodia. Their aims is that they want to occupy our temples (along the border). I really dont want to see any new fighting happen. said Soklang Slay, as he helped his daughter move back into her home in Cambodia's Oddar Meanchay province, where heavy fighting had occurred. Soklang Slay and his family dug a bunker to shield themselves from artillery when fighting started, but fled on the second day when bombings intensified. In Thailand's Surin province, village chief Kritsada Jindasri said that he heard heavy firing and explosions Monday night before silence fell at midnight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are still cautious. We still dont totally believe (that it would stop). We still wait to assess the situation, said Kritsada, who had stayed back along with 60 other community leaders after around 400 villagers evacuated last week. His brother, Jirayu Jindasri, returned home after seeking refuge with relatives. I still dont feel comfortable, because they just announced it for the first day. Im not confident. If it breaks out again, Ill have to go, he said. Analysts said that the ceasefire remains tenuous and politically complicated. Kokthay Eng, a Cambodian researcher in history, politics and international relations, said that Trumps trade leverage and strongman mentality have helped save Thai and Cambodian people from further bloodshed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he warned that the ceasefire may not last if the Thai government fails to secure lower U.S. tariffs. It is risky and will require clear markers to build traction, Southeast Asian political expert Bridget Welsh said. A proper border survey should begin immediately. Right now, its on pause because the roots of the conflict have yet to be addressed. ___ Sopheng Cheang reported from Samrong, Cambodia. Eileen Ng in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Chalida Ekvitthayavechnukul and Grant Peck in Bangkok, and Anton L. Delgado in Samrong, contributed to this report. BANGKOK (Reuters) -Thailand has estimated the initial costs of evacuation and damaged property at more than 10 billion baht ($307.88 million) after a five-day border conflict with Cambodia, and is expecting the eventual economic impact to be even bigger, the finance minister said on Tuesday. The government is preparing an initial budget of 25 billion baht ($771 million) to mitigate the effects, Pichai Chunhavajira told reporters. "I have to gather the budget for this as it will also stimulate the economy because there will be construction, house repairs and many more," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It might not be enough and we may need to seek more," he said, adding the initial estimated damage had yet to include the disruptions in trade. In a separate statement, Pichai said the finance ministry had announced various relief measures to assist people and businesses affected by the border conflict. State-owned banks are offering measures including loan repayment deferrals, low-interest loans, refinancing options, and fee exemptions to support recovery efforts, he said. Tax measures include extending tax filing and payment deadlines to September, and tax deductions for repair costs up to 100,000 baht for homes and 30,000 baht for vehicles, Pichai said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government has also allocated 100 million baht to each affected province to meet local needs, which can be increased if necessary, he said. ($1 = 32.48 baht) (Reporting by Orathai Sriring, Kitiphong Thaichareon and Thanadech Staporncharnchai; Editing by David Stanway) By Shoon Naing and Artorn Pookasook KANTHARALAK, Thailand (Reuters) -After hearing that a nearby convenience store had been hit by shelling from Cambodia last week, Koon Kantho quickly packed her essentials, locked up her home and scurried to safety at a relative's house with her family. Moments after they left, the 68-year-old said she heard a loud blast but didn't turn back to see what had happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It wasn't until her son-in-law returned later that she learnt that her home in the Kantharalak district of Thailand's Sisaket province had been reduced to rubble by firing from across the border. "Thank God, we fled," Koon said on Tuesday, as she walked through the debris of the structure that had sheltered her family of six, including her seven-year-old granddaughter, and also housed a small grocery store. "If we hadn't fled, we would have perished." Border communities in Thailand and Cambodia bore the brunt of the five-day conflict between the neighbours - the heaviest fighting between them in over a decade - before it was halted by a ceasefire agreement announced on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The border clashes, during which Thailand deployed F-16 fighter jets and Cambodia used BM-21 missile launchers, have left at least 40 people dead, many of them civilians, and displaced over 300,000 people on both sides. With calm returning to the frontier, some residents like Koon - who also fled her house for a day during clashes in 2011 - are making their way back to their villages to see what is left of their homes and lives. Thailand has estimated the initial costs of evacuation and damaged property at more than 10 billion baht ($307.88 million), Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira said on Tuesday, adding the government is preparing an initial budget of 25 billion baht to mitigate the conflict's economic impact. When she returned after the ceasefire announcement, Koon said her heart pounded as she saw her home reduced to splintered wood and twisted beams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I still have a lot of luck, if not I wouldn't be standing here," she said, almost in tears. Walking through the debris of her home, Koon picked up a few precious mementos: a photo of the monk she prays to, a framed picture of a family member and her wristwatch. Koon said she never imagined losing the home this way, and hopes that the government will step in to help. "I don't know where I will live now," she said. "It's all gone, nothing is left." (Additional reporting by Athit Perawongmetha; Editing by Devjyot Ghoshal and Raju Gopalakrishnan) An animal rights group is calling for a seaside town's century-old mascot to be retired. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) said it was calling for the Jolly Fisherman in Skegness to be replaced with a "Happy Plaice". "There's absolutely nothing jolly about killing fish," Jennifer White, from the group said. However, local councillor and former mayor Steve Kirk described the campaign as "nonsense". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The original Jolly Fisherman poster, which features the slogan "Skegness is so bracing" was commissioned by the Great Northern Railway to encourage visitors to take the train on their seaside breaks to Skegness. It was commissioned in 1908 for 12 guineas and has become synonymous with the Lincolnshire resort. Jolly is also represented by a statue in the town. Ms White said the best thing would be for the statue to be replaced with a "happy fish" to remind people that fish have a "desire to live and can feel pain and love and joy just as any other animal". She said: "We have sent a letter to the mayor offering to contribute to the cost of a new statue that would replace the so-called Jolly Fisherman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We can all be kind to fish and other animals by simply eating vegan foods and that's really what this statue would represent." Peta's Jennifer White said the group had offered to contribute to the cost of a new statue [BBC] In response, Kirk said the Jolly Fisherman was loved throughout the world and was an integral part of Skegness. "Anyone who has been around for a while will realise that around once every ten years or so, when they are desperate to raise their profile they [Peta] pick on the poor Jolly Fisherman. "It's publicity for them," he added. Last week, an appeal was made to find people to don a Jolly costume to go out and about in the resort to meet holidaymakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Kirk said they now had several potential candidates for the role. Jolly has previously been in the news when he was redrawn by New European with the slogan Skegness is so Brexit. The mascot also appeared on the cover of Bill Bryson's book The Road to Little Dribbling. Listen to highlights from Lincolnshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here. Download the BBC News app from the App Store for iPhone and iPad or Google Play for Android devices More on this story Related internet links JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) The Mississippi Senate has two seats to fill in Novembers special elections. Several candidates are vying for Jackson Mayor John Horhns former seat for District 26. Theresa Kennedy is one of five people who are gathering materials and support for the community to qualify for the special election on November 4. She said the state faces many challenges that are impacting Mississippians. One of the challenges is the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). Letitia Johnson running for District 26 Senate seat Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When I think about PERS, I think about people like my mother, whos, again, a state retiree. I think about those who are five to 10 years away from retirement and how theyre going to be impacted by that, Kennedy stated. After the 2025 Special Session, lawmakers expressed interest in finding a way to increase teacher pay and bring back retired teachers during the 2026 Legislative Session. Kennedy said she likes the idea of figuring out how to give retired teachers the option to come back and teach. I do believe that if we increase teacher pay, though, if we make the incentives more inviting. I do think that teachers will be able to retain and recruit quality teachers to Mississippi, she said. Kennedy has until August 21 to qualify. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) A Wichita Falls Mexican restaurant is asking the community for help after it was broken into Monday night. According to a Facebook post by El Norteno Restaurante, the restaurant was broken into on July 28. The post said cash registers, tool sets, meats, cords and boxes connected to the security systems were stolen. El Norteno Restaurante downtown Wichita Falls They ask that you contact the authorities immediately if anyone tries to sell any of these items. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The restaurant reopened Tuesday morning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com. Al-Shabab militants captured the strategic central Somali town of Mahaas on Sunday (27 July), dealing a blow to the countrys fragile security gains and raising concerns about the sustainability of recent military efforts backed by the United States. Residents reported that government troops and allied Maawisley militias withdrew following a series of suicide bombings and heavy gunfire. Al-Shabab quickly claimed control, and district officials confirmed casualties, including a provincial intelligence officer. Mahaas, located in Hiraan region, had been under federal control for over a decade and served as a forward base in offensives against al-Shabab. Its fall is a major setback for Somali forces and highlights ongoing challenges in coordinating national defense efforts. The capture comes amid intensified U.S. military operations in Somalia. On Friday (25 July), U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) carried out airstrikes against al-Shabab near Sabiid in Lower Shabelle and launched a raid in northeastern Puntland, capturing Abdiweli Mohamed Yusuf, ISIS-Somalias finance chief. AFRICOM has conducted at least 53 airstrikes in Somalia this year, signaling increased U.S. involvement. However, reports suggest that Somali government forces are struggling to hold reclaimed territory, raising questions about the long-term impact of foreign military support. While U.S. operations continue to target top extremist figures, the fall of Mahaas underscores the enduring resilience of militant groups and the complexity of restoring stability across Somalias volatile regions. Gov. Tony Evers' announcement that he will not seek a third term set off a flurry of speculation about who might seek the office. Of all the names tossed about, perhaps the one that raised the most eyebrows was former Gov. Scott Walker, who teased a run in a social media post July 24. The next day, he posted a list of 28 policy priorities the next governor should support, such as eliminating the state income tax, banning cell phones in schools and banning China from owning farmland in Wisconsin. The exploration was short-lived. On July 27, Walker released a video thanking everyone who reached out to encourage him to run again, however he said he'll remain president of Young America's Foundation, a nonprofit youth conservative organization. Walker served as governor from 2011 to 2019. He was defeated for a third term by Evers in 2018. Before the announcement, we asked readers to share their reaction to Walker's interest. Here's what they had to say: Walker's experience and name recognition make him formidable "Love it. Solid track record, dependable, reliable GOP conservative, experienced campaigner. Hope he throws his hat in the ring, if only to drive the Left crazy." Kevin Fischer, Franklin Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Like nearly all politicians for office above the municipal level, Walker has an out-sized ego. He believes he can use his past legacy to propel him into the future. This is a rare feat. He has name recognition, but also a political history. At a time when a significant number of voters are searching for what the future will be, Walker represents the past. His candidacy, if his chooses to run, will be limited at best." Richard Martin, Eau Claire Opinion: Here is what readers had to say about Tony Evers' legacy as Wisconsin governor "I think not. I liked him, but he had his time. The Republicans need to get new blood in the system and someone that can take charge, but work with the other side. " Gary Hasseldeck, Greendale "He was an excellent governor! But I want a younger governor." Todd Lambert, Bryant Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yes! He was the best." Larry Wilder, Colfax Former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker arrives to speak during a campaign rally for former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump at Dane Manufacturing in Waunakee, Wisconsin, October 1, 2024. "He was a great governor. But he will be met with lots of criticism and opposition. Its been a long time and people are still talking about the changes he made and giving him a bad reputation." Jane Braun, Grafton "A mix of amusement and fear. I don't think Walker is as widely popular as he was 10-15 years ago, but he is probably the strongest possible Republican candidate." Chris Rockwood, Wauwatosa Share your thoughts: What is Tony Evers's legacy? What about the candidates to replace him? "Best news I heard all day!" Candace Warlin, West Allis Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He should stay retired, however, he may generate a great amount of Democrat resources to defeat him, if they can. It depends on his campaign and war chest." Paul MacGillis, Menomonee Falls Rolling back union rights, Foxconn project remain sore points Walker's signature legislation, Act 10, which rolled back collective bargaining rights for most public employee unions, remains controversial. In addition, under his administration Taiwanese manufacturer Foxconn was planning to invest up to $10 billion in a Mount Pleasant plant that would deliver up to 13,000 jobs. However, the size and scale of the project have been markedly smaller. Many readers pointed to both in their reaction: "Gov. Walkers divisive politics will not be helpful to Wisconsin and its election cycle. Walkers extreme disregard of public employees and public education were evident when he dropped the bomb during his last term. Act 10 continues to be ruinous to our schools and Wisconsins reputation for clean government and excellent schools." John Weisbrod, Stevens Point Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think we need new blood. We cant live in the past." Bob Flynn, Janesville "Horrible. No one did more to purposely 'divide and conquer' his fellow Wisconsinites than Scott Walker. He never attempted to be a governor for all Wisconsinites; just his base of supporters. Wisconsin would be better off without his return to any statewide office." Evan Newman, La Crosse Letters: Enbridge Line 5 pipeline relocation common sense project that will create jobs "He did significant damage to our state we dont need more of the same. We are still recovering from the damage to schools, municipalities, Act 10, the cancellation of the high speed train, etc." Kristine Hinrichs, Milwaukee Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Stay home, youve had your day." Fred Camacho, Wisconsin Rapids "Scott Walker is the worst. I seriously doubt hes ever had a single original thought or idea. Hes only capable of parroting the Bible and whatever he watched on FoxNews this morning. Cant wait to gut our public school system. Thinly veiled racist who couldnt manage to graduate college. Wisconsin deserves so much better." Al Larson, Nashotah "He is 'former governor' for a reason. He would be the easiest Republican to defeat. The only reason he would run is because his ego prevails over the evidence of his likelihood of winning." Bill Te Winkle, Elkhart Lake 'Scott Walker is responsible for dividing our state' "The last thing Wisconsin needs is Scott Walker back as governor; if that happens, Wisconsin will need to retire its State Motto (Forward)." Dave Benforado, Madison Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Please, lets not go there. Terrible governor. The worst in my lifetime and probably the worst ever. Very divisive and created huge problems for the state. We are only starting to cover for his mistakes. Mistakes he made as Milwaukee County executive, we will never recover from. Horrible is the only word for him." Lynn Peters, Mukwonago "I think you'd see Democratic voting enthusiasm go from extremely high to off the charts if Walker were to run. I don't think his anti-worker, anti-union, regressive policies would go over well at all anymore many of us have been negatively impacted by Act 10." Shelley Craine, Milwaukee "Scott Walker is responsible for dividing our state and creating an atmosphere of hostility. His words 'divide and conquer.'" Richard Mross, Appleton Jim Fitzhenry is the Ideas Lab Editor/Director of Community Engagement for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Reach him at jfitzhen@gannett.com or 920-993-7154. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Scott Walker teased run for Wisconsin governor. Your views. | Opinion Senate Republicans narrowly confirmed Emil Bove to the federal judiciary on Tuesday, pushing the former Trump attorney through to a lifetime appointment on the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals via a 50-49 vote. The Democrats were joined in their opposition by Sens. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, and Susan Collins, R-Maine. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said the Republicans in the Senate should feel ashamed of the appointment. Shame on you, Schumer said after the vote, per NBC. This is a dark, dark day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Original story continues below. A third whistleblower has spoken out against Justice Department official Emil Bove as the former attorney for President Donald Trump seeks a lifetime confirmation to the federal judiciary. The latest anonymous informant claims that Bove misled Senate leaders at his confirmation hearing last month when discussing the DOJs decision to drop corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. The most recent whistleblower shared their evidence with Sen. Cory Bookers office, according to The Washington Post. Booker and Sen. Adam Schiff sent a letter to William Blier, the Department of Justices acting inspector general, on Tuesday, calling for the DOJ to investigate the third whistleblowers claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the event these whistleblower complaints and other reports have not already prompted investigations by your office, we urge you to undertake a thorough review of these disclosures and allegations, the senators wrote in a letter obtained by POLITICO. Trump nominated Bove to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit in June. Since his nomination, Bove has been accused of suggesting DOJ staffers defy court orders that could restrict the Trump administrations immigration and deportation agenda. The first whistleblower, former DOJ attorney Erez Reuveni, eventually went public with his allegations. The second whistleblower confirmed Reuvenis claims. Our client, whose identity we are protecting, has provided substantive, internal DOJ documents to the Inspector General, supporting former senior DOJ attorney-turned whistleblower Erez Reuvenis allegations, Whistleblower Aid said in a statement. Start your day with essential news from Salon. Sign up for our free morning newsletter, Crash Course. Republicans have largely dismissed accusations against Bove. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesman for Judiciary Chair Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said the claims reek of a bad faith attempt to sink a nominee. Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., said Boves commitment to the law is unimpeachable in an op-ed for the Washington Reporter. The entire attack rests on an unsubstantiated and hypothetical allegation that Bove might have asked someone to defy a court order that never existed, Schmitt wrote. The Senate is expected to vote on Boves confirmation this week. Republican Sens. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, are expected to oppose Boves confirmation. Two additional Republicans would need to defect for Democrats to successfully block the confirmation. The post Senate confirms Trump lawyer Bove despite whistleblower allegations [UPDATED] appeared first on Salon.com. Nearly 7,000 Peninsula Light customers are without power Monday night after a car crashed into a pole. The outage was first reported just before 9 p.m. in the area of Lackey Road NW of the Key Peninsula. Peninsula Light said pole replacement is necessary, which is a lengthy repair. Crews will be working through the night. Dispatch is evaluating rerouting power to restore as many members as possible while crews work, the agency said. See the outage map here. Its unclear when power will be restored. This article contains descriptions of domestic violence and/or child abuse. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, contact the DCFS 24/7 hotline: 855-323-3237. For more information, visit dcfs.utah.gov. ST. GEORGE, Utah (ABC4) Three Washington County residents have been arrested and charged after a 9-month-old had to be hospitalized for a fentanyl overdose. The childs mother, whom ABC4 is not identifying to protect her childrens identities, 31, has been charged with one count of endangerment of a child resulting in bodily injury, a second-degree felony, and three counts of endangerment of a child, a third-degree felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement JD Montgomery, 39, and Angelique Sarah Horne, 55, have both been charged with obstruction of justice, a third-degree felony; two counts of possession of a controlled substance, a Class A misdemeanor; and use or possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class B misdemeanor. Horne is also facing four felony charges of endangerment of a child. READ NEXT: Former elementary school janitor arrested a third time for alleged sexual abuse of a child According to court documents, on July 25, 2025, paramedics were called to a medical episode at a residence in St. George. When emergency medical services (EMS) arrived, they determined that the 9-month-old infant had symptoms consistent with an opioid overdose and administered Narcan. EMS transported the infant to the hospital. At the hospital, staff created a referral to the Utah Division of Child and Family Services , determining that the infant had, in fact, suffered from an opioid overdose. The mother was at the hospital with the 9-month-old, and police responded to speak about what had happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An officer with the St. George Police Department (SGPD) made contact with the mother, who reported that she and her four children, aged 10 and younger, had been living at the house for less than two months. She allegedly stated that she was aware that other residents in the home one later identified as Horne used illegal substances, including heroin and fentanyl. The mother explained that she had been trying to clean up the residence because she was worried illegal substances might be scattered around the home and within the reach of her children. According to documents, the mother stated that when she found her infant had overdosed, the other residents encouraged her not to call 911. A toxicology test on the 9-month-old indicated that the overdose was caused by fentanyl. The mother was arrested and transported to the Washington County Jail. While detectives interviewed the mother at the hospital, SGPD officers responded to the residence where the overdose allegedly occurred. Police say that the officers were familiar with the address as belonging to a known drug dealer and her sister. The two had been arrested previously for distributing methamphetamine. The drug dealer was incarcerated, but her sister, Horne, was released and was living at the residence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SOUTHERN UTAH: Man steals $70,000 worth of jewelry from Cedar City store, second suspect at large Officers were informed that Horne had been spotted at a nearby gas station and completed a traffic stop. A K9 alerted to narcotics in the vehicle, but police did not locate anything during a search. During an interview with Horne, she allegedly explained that the mother had called her and told her the baby was sick. When Horne arrived at the residence, the mother stated that she didnt want to call because she didnt want to get in trouble. The two did eventually contact 911, Horne reportedly stated, and the ambulance took the mother and infant to the hospital. According to court documents, Horne also told police that she, the mother, and a man named JD Montgomery had worked together to clean all of the drug paraphernalia out of the home after the 9-month-old was taken to the hospital. She also admitted that there was a trash can full of drugs in the home that the children could have accessed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Montgomery arrived back at the residence, officers detained him. A K9 checked on his vehicle and detected a drug odor. Officers searched the vehicle and located numerous drug paraphernalia items in a trash bag. Both Horne and Montgomery allegedly admitted that these items were removed from the home. The mother, Horne, and Montgomery were all arrested and booked into the Washington County Jail. The mother and Horne are currently being held without bail, and Montgomery is being held on bail. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. On 28 July, the hacker group Silent Crow, in cooperation with Cyber Partisans BY, breached Aeroflot's [Russias largest airline ed.] internal IT infrastructure and destroyed around 7,000 physical and virtual servers. This is Silent Crows third high-profile attack on Russian institutions in 2025. The group, which publicly announced its activities earlier this year, has shown considerable effectiveness in inflicting damage on Russia in cyberspace. Ekonomichna Pravda has compiled previous attacks carried out by Silent Crow that preceded Aeroflot's paralysis and outlines them below. Attack on Aeroflot According to the hackers, they had been inside Russias largest airline's corporate network for a year. As a result, they managed to extract the complete flight history database, compromise critical corporate systems and gain control over employee computers, including those of the companys top management. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Silent Crow stated that around 7,000 servers both physical and virtual were destroyed. The data obtained includes 12 TB of databases, 8 TB of files from Windows Share, and 2 TB of corporate emails. According to the groups estimates, restoring the systems could cost tens of millions of dollars, and the damage is considered strategically significant for the company. Russias Prosecutor Generals Office confirmed that the disruption was caused by a cyberattack. A criminal case has been launched under Part 4 of Article 272 of the Russian Criminal Code (unauthorised access to computer information). Aeroflot, along with its affiliated airlines Rossiya and Pobeda, cancelled over 100 flights. According to Russian outlet Kommersant, the airline cancelled 54 round-trip flights, while 206 out of 260 scheduled flights are being prepared for departure. Attack on Rosreestr In early January 2025, hackers from Silent Crow targeted Russias Federal Service for State Registration, the Land Registry and Cartography (Rosreestr). The group posted a 44.7-GB file on its Telegram channel, containing more than 82 million entries. According to the hackers, the document included the personal data of all Russian citizens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The leak was first noticed by the Telegram channel Data1eaks, which pointed out that the data in the file was current as of March 2024. The information included the names, dates of birth, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, SNILS numbers (Russias equivalent of social security numbers), and Rosreestr identification numbers of Russian citizens. The investigative outlet Agentstvo later verified 15 randomly selected entries and confirmed the individuals named were real. In several cases, property addresses matched actual places of residence. Rosreestr itself did not confirm the breach, stating only that "an additional review" was being conducted in light of reports circulating on Telegram channels. Silent Crow, however, described the incident as an example of how major state institutions "can collapse within days". Breach of Rostelecom On 21 January, Silent Crow carried out another attack this time targeting Russian telecom giant Rostelecom. The hackers extracted 154,000 email addresses and 101,000 phone numbers of Russian users. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As proof, they posted spreadsheets containing data from users who had submitted queries via the feedback form on the companys website. All records were dated 20 September 2024. According to Data1eaks, the group gained access to both user queries and the database of the public procurement portal operated by Rostelecom. The company acknowledged the data leak but shifted the blame to "the infrastructure of one of its contractors". The group's other declared targets include the Moscow Department of Information Technology, Kia Russia and Alfa-Bank, Russias largest private bank. Who are Silent Crow? The Telegram channel used by the group to publish all their statements was created only in late December 2024. Silent Crow has not officially disclosed its origins, and no government agency has yet identified their exact location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group currently presents itself as pro-Ukrainian hacktivists operating against Russia and its allies. Their approach is typical of hacktivist groups rather than criminal or state-backed actors: they do not demand ransoms, they act publicly and release the stolen data openly. Their actions aim to exert deliberate information pressure rather than achieve financial gain. Their most recent operation the attack on Aeroflot, carried out in cooperation with the Belarusian group Cyber Partisans suggests possible coordination between regional hacktivist communities. Background: On the morning of 28 July, Russian airline Aeroflot cancelled nearly 50 flights due to a failure in its information systems. Pro-Ukrainian hackers Silent Crow and Cyber Partisans BY claimed responsibility for the attack. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Three men have been found guilty, and given jail terms of up to 11 years, for snatching hundreds of ancient gold coins during an daring night raid at a southern German museum in 2022. The suspects from northern Germany were arrested months after the November heist at the Celtic and Roman Museum in the Bavarian town of Manching. During the robbery, 483 Celtic coins were taken from the trouve, dating back to around 100 B.C. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the break-in, the thieves cut cables of a telecommunications hub to disable local networks which allowed them to get in and out of the building in nine minutes without triggering an alarm. Related The horde of coins, was originally discovered during an 1999 archaeological dig along with a lump of unworked gold. Authorities have said they are considered the biggest trove of Celtic gold found in the 20th century. Most of the stolen treasure is still missing, but the court in the city of Ingolstadt was told that lumps of gold were found on one of the suspects when he was arrested that appear to have resulted from part of the haul being melted down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A fourth defendant was acquitted of involvement in the museum heist but convicted for other thefts carried out by the group. The four defendants were accused of a total of 20 break-ins or attempted robberies in Germany and neighbouring Austria, starting in 2014. Other cases involved safes or cash machines being broken into. The defendants didn't address the charges during the roughly six-month trial, but their lawyers called for their acquittal. The idea of Second World War kamikaze pilots as brainwashed fanatics, willingly going to their deaths, is a pervasive one. And there is an element of truth in it, because the Japanese population was certainly taught that this was the ultimate, glorious sacrifice. Teachers drummed into primary school children that these divine hawks were to be revered. Yet Kamikaze: An Untold History (BBC Four), a sombre, Japanese-made film which takes a wholly compassionate view, shows the reality. Ordered to carry out suicide missions on the US fleet, or pressured to volunteer, they had little choice but to accept their task in a society where conformity was everything. Behind the last letters home, in which they told their families that they were proud to be dying for their country, lay a truth that could not be spoken. An elderly lady, remembering the older brother whose first combat mission was also his last, said: In the end, he gave up and accepted his fate. Thats how he must have felt that it was inescapable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the pilots did feel a special kind of pride, that did not mean they were without fear. They hid that fear in the moments before they went into battle. An airman tasked with escorting the squadron towards their target recalls a ghastly atmosphere in the dormitory the night before a mission, but when dawn broke and they went to the airfield, they left that all behind and appeared happy. They went cheerfully. They didnt want others to see any self-doubt or distress. The 90-minute documentary lays out the facts and figures close to 4,000 pilots died on kamikaze missions, with an average age of 21, some of them the products of elite naval and military academies, others recent university graduates and explains the strategy. Japan was losing the war but believed that inflicting as much damage as possible would constitute a late show of strength and secure them more favourable terms. An unconditional surrender would damage the Emperors position. A pilot remembered his squadron being summoned to a briefing room and given the news. The commander said the war situation was so bad that we had to conduct kamikaze attacks. He told us that it was our only chance at victory. At that moment, I thought my life was over. They were asking us to sacrifice our lives. At that moment, I thought my life was over. They were asking us to sacrifice our lives - BBC / NHK The stories of the kamikaze pilots are told through letters, photographs and the recollections of their relatives. There are other interviews, conducted at least a decade ago, with pilots who were not selected. Some of these were passed over because they had scored highest on tests, and high command did not want to waste the lives of the brightest. Volunteers were asked to indicate in writing how deeply they wished to be a kamikaze: they could say desire, strongly desire or negative. A historian looks over these records, and sees that some wrote desire in the smallest script, a desperate way to indicate their reluctance. But very few said no. A man recalled playing rock, paper, scissors with a fellow pilot for the one kamikaze flight leaving that day. He was disappointed to lose. Looking back, I cant believe I volunteered, he said, but at the time I felt trapped. Maybe thats the psychology behind suicide. I was suffocating. An American survivor of a kamikaze attack, who volunteered for the US Navy shortly after Pearl Harbor, is one of the few non-Japanese interviewees. He was aboard the USS Ommaney Bay when it was attacked off the coast of the Philippines in January 1945. I dont have no grudge against nobody. They were ordered to go, he says of the kamikaze. Id wager that some other US veterans would have been less forgiving, but this is a film in which all the sympathy lies in one place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kamikaze: An Untold History airs on BBC Four at 9pm on Monday 28 July, and is available now on BBC iPlayer Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. MONROE COUNTY, Ill. A one-year-old child drowned Monday afternoon, despite the best efforts of first responders in Monroe County, Illinois. Monroe County deputies and EMS were dispatched shortly after 3:30 p.m. to the Country Lakes subdivision, just outside Waterloo, after a child was found unresponsive in a swimming pool. According to Sgt. Justin Biggs, a spokesman for the Monroe County Sheriffs Department, dispatchers notified responders that the family had placed the child in a vehicle and were driving toward town to meet EMS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Within two minutes of being dispatched, Waterloo Police officers and Monroe County deputies located the vehicle in the 500 block of East Fourth Street in Waterloo, removed the child, and began to administer CPR with EMS en route. An AED was used as well. Resident began investigation that led to Sam Page indictment The one-year-old child began spitting water and showed brief signs of response, Sgt. Biggs said. When EMS arrived, a deputy carried the child to the ambulance, and efforts were made to bring the child to a hospital in St. Louis. The sheriffs department had intersections blocked off with the help of police in Waterloo and Columbia, Sgt. Biggs said, and a deputy escorted the ambulance to the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, the one-year-old died at the hospital. The sheriffs Investigation Division will conduct a full review of the incident, Sgt. Biggs said. Preliminary information indicates this was a heartbreaking accident. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Credit: @CrimeLDN / X Tommy Robinson is understood to have left the country following an alleged assault at St Pancras station in which a man suffered serious injuries. The 42-year-old far-Right activist from Luton was filmed at the scene of the incident on Monday evening and British Transport Police (BTP) later said they were making arrest enquiries. But in an update on Tuesday, the force said a suspect wanted for questioning in connection with the alleged attack had boarded a flight in the early hours and was no longer in the UK. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident, in which a man was allegedly assaulted, occurred at St Pancras at around 8.40pm. Footage posted on social media appeared to show Robinson at the scene looking agitated while a man lies on the floor. In the clip, Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, can be heard saying: He f-----g come at me. He come at me bruv. As two members of station staff attend to the man, Robinson approaches an apparent witness and adds: He come at me bruv, you saw that. Yesterday, Robinson also posted a video in which he appeared to have a cut on his head - @TRobinsonNewEra A spokesman for the BTP confirmed that a man had suffered serious injuries as a result of an alleged assault and had been taken to hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They appealed for anyone who may have witnessed the incident to contact them. In a statement issued on Tuesday, a force spokesman said: Following a report of an assault at St Pancras station on July 28, officers have confirmed that the suspect, a 42-year-old man from Bedfordshire, boarded a flight out of the country in the early hours of this morning. Detectives are continuing to work closely to progress the investigation and bring him into custody for questioning. Robinson was released from prison in May after being jailed for 18 months for contempt of court. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. At least 43 people, including nine children, were killed and over a dozen injured in a brutal attack on a Catholic church in Komanda, Ituri province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), on Sunday (27 July). The assault, blamed on the Islamist Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), has ended months of relative calm in the region. The attack occurred during a prayer vigil, with rebels using guns and machetes to target worshippers. Homes and shops near the church were also torched, and several people remain missing. ADF, which pledged allegiance to ISIS in 2019, has intensified attacks on civilian soft spots like churches and markets, despite joint operations by Congolese and Ugandan forces. Local MP Gratien Iracan said the attack had been anticipated. The ADF are known, identified and located. Places of worship are recurring targets. The local authorities had already warned of the risk, he noted. MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission, condemned the violence, calling it targeted attacks on defenseless civilians contrary to all norms of human rights and international humanitarian law. ADF is responsible for more than half of all civilian deaths in DRCs conflict zones, according to the UN. Despite years of military operations, the group remains a potent threat, exploiting security gaps to inflict devastating harm. Civil society leaders in Komanda are now urging immediate military reinforcements, warning the rebels remain dangerously close to the town. 8.8-magnitude earthquake causes tsunami in Russia and Japan, sets off warnings for Alaska and Hawaii TOKYO (AP) One of the world's strongest earthquakes struck Russia's Far East early Wednesday, an 8.8-magnitude temblor that caused a tsunami in the northern Pacific region and prompted warnings for Alaska, Hawaii and other coasts south toward New Zealand. Several locations advised evacuations, but no major injuries have been reported. Cars jammed streets and highways in Honolulu as the tsunami alerts coincided with the Tuesday afternoon rush-hour. Warning sirens blared as people moved to higher ground. Hawaii schools canceled after-school and evening activities. A tsunami of 50 centimeters (1.6 feet) was detected at the Ishinomaki port in northern Japan, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. STOCKHOLM (AP) The United States and China have agreed to work on extending a deadline for new tariffs on each other after two days of trade talks in Stockholm concluded on Tuesday, according to Beijings lead negotiator. The U.S. side says the extension was discussed, but not decided. China said the two sides had in-depth, candid and constructive discussions and agreed to work on extending a pause in tariffs beyond an Aug. 12 deadline for a trade deal for another 90 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. economic and trade relationship serves not only the two countries respective development goals but also contributes to global economic growth and stability, said China's Vice Premier He Lifeng, who led the Chinese side, according to a statement from China's Ministry of Commerce. He did not say how the extension would work. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the talks as a very fulsome two days with the Chinese delegation." He said they touched on U.S. concerns over China's purchase of Iranian oil, supplying Russia with dual-use tech that could be used on the battlefield, and manufacturing goods at a rate beyond what is sustained by global demand. We just need to de-risk with certain, strategic industries, whether it's the rare earths, semiconductors, medicines, and we talked about what we could do together to get into balance within the relationship, Bessent said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He stressed that the U.S. seeks to restore domestic manufacturing, secure purchase agreements of U.S. agricultural and energy products, and reduce trade deficits. Meeting in the Swedish capital The latest round of talks opened Monday in Stockholm to try to break a logjam over tariffs that have skewed the pivotal commercial ties between the worlds two largest economies. The two sides previously met in Geneva and London to address specific issues triple-digit tariffs that amounted to a trade embargo and export controls on critical products China's chokehold on rare earth magnets, and U.S. restrictions on semiconductors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Monday's discussions lasted nearly five hours behind closed doors at the office of Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. Before the talks resumed Tuesday, Kristersson met with Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer over breakfast. A possible Trump-Xi meeting The talks in Stockholm unfolded as President Donald Trump is mulling plans to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, a summit that could be a crucial step toward locking in any major agreements between their two countries. I would say before the end of the year, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Tuesday. On his Truth Social media platform, Trump insisted late Monday that he was not seeking a summit with Xi, but may go to China at the Chinese leaders invitation, which has been extended. Otherwise, no interest! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bessent told reporters the summit was not discussed in Stockholm but that they did talk about the desire of the two presidents for the trade team and the Treasury team to have trade negotiations with our Chinese counterparts. Greer said the American team would head back to Washington and talk to the president about the extension of the August deadline and see whether thats something that he wants to do. Striking tariff deals The U.S. has struck deals over tariffs with some of its key trading partners including Britain, Japan and the European Union since Trump announced earlier in July elevated tariff rates against dozens of countries. China remains perhaps the biggest challenge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Chinese have been very pragmatic, Greer said in comments posted on social media by his office late Monday. We have tensions now, but the fact that we are regularly meeting with them to address these issues gives us a good footing for these negotiations. Many analysts had expected that the Stockholm talks would result in an extension of current tariff levels, which are far lower than the triple-digit percentage rates proposed as the U.S.-China tariff tiff reached a crescendo in April, sending world markets into a temporary tailspin. The two sides backed off the brink during bilateral talks in Geneva in May and agreed to a 90-day pause which ends Aug. 12 of those sky-high levels. They currently stand at U.S. tariffs of 30% on Chinese goods, and Chinas 10% tariff on U.S. products. The long view Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While China has offered few specifics of its goals in the Stockholm talks, Bessent has suggested that the situation has stabilized to the point that Beijing and Washington can start looking toward longer-term balance between their economies. Since China vaulted into the global trading system more than two decades ago, Washington has sought to press Beijing to encourage more consumption at home and offer greater market access to foreign, including American-made goods. Wendy Cutler, a former U.S. trade negotiator and now vice president at the Asia Society Policy Institute, said Trumps team would today face challenges from a large and confident partner that is more than willing to retaliate against U.S. interests. Rollover of tariff rates should be the easy part, she said, warning that Beijing has learned lessons since the first Trump administration and will not buy into a one-sided deal this time around. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goodbye Stockholm Bessent said the overall tone of the meetings was very constructive" while Li said the two sides agreed in Stockholm to keep close contact and to communicate with each other in a timely manner on trade and economic issues. On Monday, police cordoned off a security zone along Stockholms vast waterfront as rubbernecking tourists and locals sought a glimpse of the top-tier officials through a phalanx of TV news cameras lined up behind metal barriers. Flagpoles at the prime ministers office were festooned with the American and Chinese flags. ___ Tang reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Josh Boak in Washington and Huizhong Wu in Bangkok contributed to this report. Jul. 29It's been more than a year since owners Sharon and Mike Pauza moved Cardinal Patio Furniture into a new location on West Bloomington Road. "It's been a dream to be where we are," Sharon said, "display and visibility" among the many perks. Another bonus: It's a stone's throw from where interstates 57 and 74 intersect. Many moons ago, Sharon's late father Russ Law helped build the interstate bridges as owner of Cardinal Crane Service. "It's neat to be able to drive by that on the daily," Sharon said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cardinal Patio Furniture is July's recipient of Champaign American Legion Post 24's monthly award for proper display of the American flag. Sharon said her parents made sure to fly Old Glory outside the original business and that she's happy to maintain a tradition "that represents all of what we should be proud of." We'll have more on Cardinal Patio Furniture's move and history in these pages as well as Central Illinois Business magazine. Have a flag display to nominate? Reach out to Post 24's Chuck Zelinsky at 217-356-5114 or email . COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) The Ohio Supreme Court is set to decide whether a contested state law banning certain medical treatment for transgender youth is unconstitutional. The high court announced on July 22 that its reviewing a lawsuit against House Bill 68, the state law prohibiting gender-affirming care for minors. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost asked the justices to consider the case after an appeals court ruled in March that the law is unconstitutional, arguing it infringes on parents fundamental right to direct the medical care of their children. Yost, a longtime H.B. 68 supporter, vowed to appeal that ruling. In an April statement, the attorney generals office said, We look forward to showing once again that the legislature acted properly in enacting this constitutional law, which protects our children from irreversible medical decisions. Watch a previous NBC4 report on the March decision in the video player above. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now able to endorse political candidates, Ohio churches express interest in staying neutral Ohios top court, which voted 6-1 along party lines to take up Yosts appeal, said in late April that the state can continue enforcing the law while litigation continues. Boding well for H.B. 68, a Tennessee law that also prohibits trans minors from receiving treatment like puberty blockers and hormone therapy was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in June. Still, the ACLU of Ohio, which filed the lawsuit against H.B. 68 on behalf of two families with trans children, said it remains confident in challenging Ohios version of the law. Make no mistake: the ACLU of Ohios litigation challenging House Bill 68 will proceed, said Freda Levenson, ACLU of Ohio chief legal officer, in a statement. Unlike [in Tennessee], our case raises separate constitutional claims under the Ohio Constitution. We will continue to do everything in our power to ensure transgender children and their families have the ability to live freely and thrive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement H.B. 68, which also bans trans female athletes participation in womens sports, faced a contentious road while advancing through Ohios legislature. The measure was condemned by top Ohio doctors, including Nick Lashutka, president of the Ohio Childrens Hospital Association, who argued at the Statehouse in 2023 that it is a dangerous precedent for government to dictate when medication is appropriate in pediatrics. While the Statehouse approved H.B. 68 in December 2023, Gov. Mike DeWine vetoed the legislation the following month. The governor said he made his decision after visiting patients at five childrens hospitals, arguing that these are gut-wrenching decisions that should be made by parents and should be informed by teams of doctors. Still, both chambers of the Statehouse moved to override DeWines veto. As 988 lifeline ends LGBTQ+ service, Ohio group warns of risks for youth The ACLU filed its lawsuit against H.B. 68 later that spring, putting the law temporarily on hold and setting up a five-day Franklin County trial in July 2024. Ultimately, Common Pleas Judge Michael Holbrook ruled that the legislation could go into effect given it didnt violate Ohios constitution. The ACLU then appealed Holbrooks decision to the appeals court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This has been a long hard fight to protect minors in the state of Ohio, said Rep. Gary Click (R-Vickery), H.B. 68s primary sponsor, in a statement after Holbrooks ruling. A strong cross-section of Ohioans recognize that decisions like these are too consequential to be made for and by minors who are incapable of providing informed consent. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. Top technology companies will work with the Trump administration to create digital tools to make it easier for older Americans and people with disabilities to access their health care data through the government's Medicare program. Mr. Trump said the initiative "will allow patients to easily transmit information from one doctor to another, even if they're different networks and using different record keeping systems, no matter what system they use, they're all transferable. The new standards will also make it simple for patients to access their own personal health records." More than 60 companies, including Oracle and Microsoft, have agreed to sign on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CBS News medical contributor Dr. Celine Gounder said Thursday on "CBS Mornings" that while this initiative makes it easier to share information, there are privacy concerns. "Health care systems, doctors we're regulated very tightly in how we use your medical information," Gounder said. "But if that information leaks and goes to an app that is not regulated in the same way a lot of apps make money by selling data, your personal information." Gounder also noted that there are over 20 states suing the Trump administration for trying to use Medicaid data and giving it to ICE for immigration crackdown. The databases could potentially be shared with other federal agencies, such as the IRS, ATF or DEA. "There are real concerns about the integrity and the transparency of the data," Gounder said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May, the Trump administration sought public input on how to modernize the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' digital health care services. The announcement comes on the 60th anniversary of the Social Security Amendments, which were signed on July 30, 1965, and established Medicare and Medicaid. Seema Verma, the head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services during the first Trump administration, was invited to attend the White House announcement. She now oversees Oracle's Health and Life Sciences division. White House spokespeople declined to comment. Watch: Hawaii Gov. Josh Green gives update on tsunami warning Forensics expert analysis of Jeffrey Epstein jail video contradicts government's claims Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi gives tsunami warning update TOPEKA (KSNT) Topekas mayor and manager are holding a press conference Tuesday morning. City Manager Robert Perez and City Mayor Mike Padilla are holding a live press conference at 10:30 a.m. on July 29. A recording of the press conference will be added to this article shortly after the meeting concludes. Perez said work is moving forward for a new multi-million dollar new apartment complex near Topekas downtown area. The new Union at Tower District buildings will deliver around 250 two and three-bedroom living units. Perez said this project is one of several ongoing projects that are meant to add more affordable housing for local residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Padilla and Perez touched on the progress that is being made with selling the Hotel Topeka. The City of Topeka previously shared it accepted a tentative deal put forward by the Endeavor Hotel Group earlier in the month of July. Kirklands Home set to exit West Ridge Mall For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. Editors Note: The City of Topeka has announced this event is being rescheduled. No date or time have been provided yet. TOPEKA (KSNT) Topeka police are set to hold a Crime Summit at a local community center in early August following a recent wave of killings in the Capital City. The Topeka Police Department (TPD) announced in a press release on July 29 that it will host a Crime Summit in the near future. The event was cancelled on Wednesday, July 30 due to a scheduling conflict with no confirmed date released yet. Police say the meeting will serve as an environment where people can communicate with law enforcement openly, learn more about public safety information and work together to address crime in the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Topeka residents are invited to take part in the summit and meet directly with members of the TPD. Police will also hold discussions on the following topics: Current Topeka crime statistics. Ongoing initiatives the TPD is using to reduce crime. Crime prevention tips to help increase the safety of local residents. Open forum discussion to hear from members of the community about problems, concerns and ideas. This summit is an opportunity for the public and TPD to come together, share information, and build stronger partnerships. We want to be transparent about whats happening in our city and work collaboratively on solutions. TPD press release excerpt Care for mothers expands in Topeka under new initiative For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. NEW YORK Roman Storm, the Tornado Cash developer standing trial in Manhattan on charges that the privacy tool he created helped hackers and other cyber criminals launder more than $1 billion in criminal proceeds, won't take the stand, his lawyers told the court on Tuesday. Storm told District Judge Katherine Polk Failla of the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of New York (SDNY) that he was aware that he had the right to testify in his own defense but chose not to. After Storm made his decision, his defense team, led by Keri Axel and Brian Klein of Waymaker LLP, rested their case on Tuesday afternoon. Over three days of witness testimony, the defense argued that Storm was merely the developer of a legitimate privacy tool that was sometimes exploited by bad actors something which he and his co-founders could do little to actually stop, because the Tornado Cash protocol and its pools were immutable. While Storm and the other Tornado Cash co-founders made money from the sale of TORN tokens, they didnt profit directly from Tornado Cash, witnesses testified. And, though prosecutors attempted to portray Storm and his co-founders as indifferent even callous to the plight of hack victims whose money was laundered through Tornado Cash, witness testimony, group chats and messages showed that Storm and his co-founders were unhappy with hackers using their platform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In messages between Storm and his co-founder, Roman Semenov (who also faces the same charges and remains at large), Storm expressed concern in the wake of major hacks, including the 2022 hack of Ronin Bridge, in which North Korean hackers stole $600 million and funneled a portion of the proceeds through Tornado Cash. In the chat, Storm and Semenov discussed adding the hackers wallet to the Tornado Cash user interfaces blocked list. We urgently need to tell everyone we do not want these individuals to the front, Storm told Semenov. In another string of messages following the Ronin Bridge hack, Storm told Semenov that the hackers use of Tornado Cash was very serious. After the 2022 hack of the Harmony Horizon Bridge, in which some proceeds flowed through Tornado Cash, Storm messaging with Haseeb Qureshi, managing partner at crypto venture capital firm Dragonfly Capital that invested almost $1 million in Tornado Cash parent PepperSec Inc. said: Im glad those fuckers are detected. Value of privacy Storms defense elicited witness testimony detailing non-criminal reasons why someone might want to use a tool like Tornado Cash to separate their identity from their financial transactions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Matthew Green, renowned cryptography expert and professor of computer science at Johns Hopkins University, told the jury on Tuesday that the lack of privacy was a bug in the majority of cryptocurrencies, exposing users to threats from hackers and other attackers. Green who offered his expert witness services to Storms defense for free explained that, without a tool like Tornado Cash, Ethereum users are exposing sensitive personal information with every transaction, including how much money they have, what they spend it on and who they associate with. This presents a range of security risks, including phishing attempts, fraud and in-person wrench attacks, which Green explained have been accelerating in recent years. Next steps Whether the jury will side with the prosecutions view of Tornado Cash or the defenses has yet to be decided. Tomorrow, both sides will have a chance to summarize their arguments in closing statements to the jury, after which the jury will be instructed by the judge on the charges against Storm and then released to deliberate. Police departments around the country will be hosting events focused on getting in touch with the community. Chief Andrew Lellig and Officer Garrett Jahns from the Eldridge Police Department and Rapunzel joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about National Night Out. For more information, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. LORDSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Could there be a big announcement coming for Foxconn and its huge plant in Lordstown? There have been several published reports claiming the Taiwanese electronics maker will suspend trading of its stock Wednesday ahead of whats being described as a major announcement. The reports indicate its customary for companies in Taiwan to halt trading ahead of significant events that could impact share prices. The company is not confirming any significant announcements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This announcement sounds like its going to strengthen the companys position globally in terms of electric vehicle manufacturing and supply chain in terms of autonomous mobility, in terms of AI. All those things have the potential of really helping create something nice at the Lordstown facility, said Guy Coviello, president of the Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber. Coviello said that whatever the announcement, the Valley is ready. If this does turn out to be a substantial investment and job gain in the Mahoning Valley, we are ready in terms of increasing population, increasing the talent pool, and increasing housing stock, he said. Covellio added that Foxconn has been a great corporate citizen in the Valley, and theyre looking forward to the Lordstown facility returning to its manufacturing glory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Media reports in April said that Foxconn could be expanding production in Lordstown. The reports claimed that the company plans to spend $26 million on its electric vehicle subsidiary in Ohio. Foxconn officials never confirmed those reports. Patty Coller contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. At least 16 people have died and 51 others sustained injuries in a tragic collision between a long-distance passenger bus and a dump truck in Ivory Coast, according to the countrys Transportation Ministry. The fatal crash occurred on Sunday, July 27, evening as the bus travelled from San Pedro, in the southwest, en route to Burkina Faso. All the injured were taken to a regional Hospital, while the authorities have launched an investigation to ascertain the cause of the accident. Ivory Coast continues to grapple with alarming road safety challenges, recording one of the worlds highest road fatality ratesestimated at 21 deaths per 100,000 people. Government data indicates that over 1,000 road users die annually in traffic-related incidents. The latest crash adds to a string of recent tragedies, including a collision last December that claimed 26 lives and injured 28 others. ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) A car caught fire in south Abilene and another plowed into a fence and telephone pole across town during the lunch hour Tuesday. The first incident happened on the 2600 block of Barrow Street just before noon. Witnesses say a vehicle caught fire while it was parked in front of the salon and someone was able to move it out of the way before the fire spread to the building. No injuries were reported in connection to this incident, but traffic was blocked on Barrow Street while first responders worked to contain the flames. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Across town in an alley off North Willis Street and North 12th Street, a vehicle plowed into a fence and telephone pole. Police state a mother was driving her daughter when she suffered a seizure and crashed. The mother was hospitalized due to her medical episode and history of seizures, and her daughter was not injured. No further information is available on either of this incidents at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. Rail services operated by West Midlands Trains will transfer to public ownership in February, confirms the company. It will become part of Great British Railways, set up by the government to oversee the rail system in England, Wales and Scotland, when its current contract expires. WMT, which operates services under the West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway brands, said it was "committed to ensuring a smooth transition" to public ownership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson added that customers could be "assured" the change would not impact its train services, timetables or stations and that all "ticket validities and conditions of carriage" were unaffected. The Department for Transport confirmed on Monday that WMT would transfer to public ownership on 1 February next year. Since the start of its franchise in 2017, more than 100 new trains had been introduced onto the network, which stretches from Liverpool to London via the West Midlands, the company claimed. Managing director Ian McConnell said he was "extremely proud of what we have achieved under this franchise, delivering a 1bn investment in two new train fleets". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ministers have been allowed to take rail companies back into public ownership under the Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Act 2024, passed by Labour in November. The government hoped nationalisation of all services in Britain would bring savings of up to 150m while also reducing delays and cancellations. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said passengers had been suffering "spiralling costs, fragmentation and waste". Shadow rail minister Jerome Mayhew said he feared nationalisation would end up costing taxpayers more money in increased costs for leasing rolling stock. He said the government was "risking" successful operations for "ideological reasons". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. More on this story Related internet links GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) The 11 victims in Saturdays stabbing spree in Traverse City were all rushed to Munson Medical Center, a hospital just four miles away from the site of the stabbings. Munson started receiving patients 18 minutes after the first 911 call related to the incident. As the highest level trauma facility in northern Michigan, staff has trained for this moment, according to their President Joe Hershe. He said first responders in the field briefed the hospital ahead of time to tell staff how many people would be arriving and what their injuries were. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Traverse City Walmart stabbing suspect had history of digging up bodies That immediately calls for us to activate our trauma team, Hershe said. As a Level 2 trauma center, we have personnel on site that includes surgical nurses, trauma surgeons and other skilled health care professionals that immediately went and opened up operating room suites in addition to preparing the trauma bays located inside Munson Medical Center Emergency Department to receive all 11 of the victims involved in the incident. Once they were notified, Hershe said things developed fast, sending him and his teams into trauma mode. Things unfolded very, very quickly, as they readily do when there is an incident of this magnitude or this many people involved in an injury or incident, he said. That immediately calls for additional operating room suites to be opened, care team workers, surgical nurses, our ability to coordinate blood products in the event of a mass transfusion needed. In this situation, we had blood products on hand and were able to safely administer any and all blood transfusion that was needed. As an administrator, as an executive, you immediately start to think about placement and having space readily available and open for patients to land on site after being brought in by emergency medical services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, Hershe said it was his teams culture of cooperation that enable them to effectively treat all 11 patients, without compromising the other patients who were already at the hospital. Man who helped stop Walmart stabber: Like there was a demon in him Im so very proud of our team, so very proud of the culture that we have throughout Munson Healthcare and Medical Center, he said. Its a culture of, What can I do to help? and How can I be of assistance? More than anything we practice, we rehearse, we participate in trauma-related and emergent-related drills throughout the course of the year so when it does come time to activate and execute, we have full confidence in our allied health professionals, our trauma surgeons and others that they can respond immediately, we can activate and we can expedite access to the OR, to our various medical imaging modalities and interventional services that are required during a high-acuity emergent situation. By Sunday afternoon, one patient had already been released and the remaining 10 were expected to survive. When they were first admitted Saturday evening, all 11 patients were in either serious or critical condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. The status of the U.S.-Vietnam trade deal allegedly reached four weeks ago remains uncertain, after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent admitted Tuesday that he hasnt even seen it. Trump announced a supposed agreement between the two countries in a July 2 post on Truth Social, claiming that Vietnams exports would be subject to a 20 percent tariff and its transshipped goods to a 40 percent tariff. In return, Trump said, the United States was getting TOTAL ACCESS to [Vietnamese] Markets for Trade. The announcement, Politico would report days later, shocked Vietnamese negotiators, who thought theyd agreed to a rate of about 11 percentwhich Trump reportedly scrapped and nearly doubled during a later phone call with Vietnams general secretary, whod not been involved with initial negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Complicating the matter was the absence of any paperwork indicating a final agreement that includes those tariff rates and the fact that neither country formally signed off on a deal. Accordingly, the day after the alleged agreement, CNBC asked Bessent about its status. He replied: I havent spoken to [Trump trade representative] Jamieson Greer, whos heading the team. My understanding is that its finalized in principle. To date, it remains unclear if its been finalized in any more meaningful way. Vietnam has yet to confirm the rates about which Trump boasted, leading CNBC to, once again, ask Bessent whether there is an agreement on paper. Bessents answer on Tuesday was similar to the one he gave 26 days ago. I didnt work on that deal, he said. But I assume that we do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You havent seen that paperwork? CNBCs Eamon Javers pressed. Ambassador Greer, who is a seasoned veteran with an encyclopedic memory and knowledge of all this, keeps all that, Bessent replied, stumbling slightly over his words. Bessent based his assumption that theres a written and signed agreement on the trade deals reached with Indonesia and the Philippines. Notably, Indonesia contests some of Trumps claims about its deal, and details about the Philippines deal remain scant beyond Trumps Truth Social posts. The trade-deal gray area is not just confined to Southeast Asia, as Trumps approach to his negotiations and announcements has sown widespread confusion. For instance, the Financial Times reported last week that officials in the U.S. and Japan have significant disagreements over the terms of their dealwhich, despite being the largest deal in history, according to Trump, is not recorded on paper. In fact, no legally binding one is to be drawn up, the FT reports. (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump said he had just spoken with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent who told him that he had a very good meeting with Chinese officials in Sweden on Tuesday. "He felt very good about the meeting, better than he felt yesterday," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on his way back to Washington after five days in Scotland. U.S. and Chinese officials agreed to seek an extension of their 90-day tariff truce following two days of talks in Stockholm aimed at defusing an escalating trade war between the world's two biggest economies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No major breakthroughs were announced, and U.S. officials said it was up to Trump to decide whether to extend a trade truce that expires on August 12 or potentially let tariffs shoot back up to triple-digit figures. Asked about a possible trade deal with India, another major trading partner, Trump said no deal had been finalized and noted that India had higher tariffs than nearly all other countries. (Reporting by Nandita Bose and Andrea Shalal; Editing by Chris Reese) BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) Travelers from the Tri-Cities will soon have access to nonstop flights to Washington D.C and Orlando, Florida through Breeze Airways. The Washington route will fly into Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), and the Orlando route will fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO). Breeze Airways will begin flying to Orlando on Dec. 12 and Washington on Dec. 15. According to Breeze Airways, flights to both destinations will be on Fridays and Mondays with fares from $49 one way to Orlando and $39 one way to Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) leadership and the BRIDGE Economic Partnership, an economic development organization, made the announcement Tuesday morning. Economic development is really focused on tourism, said John Rose, Executive Director of BRIDGE. Breeze offering direct service to major hubs makes us a better place to visit, a faster place to visit, and a great place to do business. Tickets are available for booking starting Tuesday. The two new flights are the first Breeze Airways routes ever offered at TRI. Bringing a new airline to TRI is the result of years of work, strong partnerships, and steady support from travelers across the region. We are excited to bring Breeze Airways into our partnership and look forward to years of success, Gene Cossey, President and CEO of Tri-Cities Airport Authority, said in a news release. This is what happens when you fly local. Every ticket makes a difference and todays announcement is a result of that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cossey also said the new airline will help meet travel demand in the region. The demand in Orlando is huge, Cossey said. Thats one of the reasons why we think this is still going to be so successful. Were going to reach out and do some marketing in Orlando and really focus on bringing those people here to visit Northeast Tennessee. BRIDGE previously stated that the new routes would provide more access to major business centers and popular vacation spots. The organization has spent months working to bring new air service to TRI, petitioning local governments and the private sector for funds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Breeze sees this as a growth market, and were thrilled the cities that were going to be able to serve out of that region here, Rose said. This is going to be a tremendous opportunity for the people who live here and work here to go and fly and to travel and then come back, Cossey said. But its also a huge opportunity to bring all the people who want to travel into our area in a fast, easy, very high-class service. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. WEST PALM BEACH Frustrated by a surprise state budget cut, Tri-Rail officials vented July 25 about potentially having to ask local taxpayers to make up for the $27 million deficit, while brainstorming ways to restore the money and end state rules they said stop the train service from making more money. The Florida Department of Transportation is slashing its annual contribution to Tri-Rail to $15 million from $42.1 million. Tri-Rail's last train would roll down the tracks in July 2027 if no sources of money are found to fill that hole, Executive Director David Dech has said. Even if Tri-Rail cut weekend and morning express service, along with staff in its Pompano Beach office as well as the office building itself, that would buy the rail service only about eight more weeks, Dech said during a meeting of the service's governing board, the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like every public transit service nationwide, and like the privately run Brightline service between South Florida and Orlando, Tri-Rail does not turn a profit. Tri-Rail trains span more than 70 miles through Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties, and carried more than 4.4 million people in 2024 across South Florida. It launched in 1989 to relieve traffic on Interstate 95, which it runs along. More: Tri-Rail: Train service will run out of money by mid-2027 because of state budget cuts Interstate 95 could get more congested "If we shut down the trains, our riders will have to get in cars and clog up I-95," Tri-Rail governing board member and Miami-Dade County Commissioner Raquel Regalado warned. State lawmakers in the Republican-dominated Florida Legislature passed the annual state budget and Gov. Ron DeSantis approved it June 30. FDOT said afterward that state law now allows it to cut Tri-Rail spending. But Tri-Rail attorney Teresa Moore said July 25 that FDOT was wrongly interpreting state law, and that the department must restore its annual $42.1 million contribution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's a classic negotiation strategy," Tri-Rail governing board member Robert Vaughan said. The state made its regular contributions annually, he said, "But then what do they do? Cut it down to $15 million and say, 'Fine, let's start talking.'" Vaughan suggested asking a judge to order the Transportation Department to keep funding Tri-Rail if budget negotiations drag on to "the 11th hour." Moore recommended against court action for now in favor of continuing discussion with FDOT and other state officials. Florida speaker of the House wants a solution for Tri-Rail Passengers board a Tri-Rail train at the West Palm Beach station in July 2024. The regional rail line is trying to determine how to provide existing levels of service in the face of a substantial state budget cut. Dech said that he recently got a positive message from a top state lawmaker: Daniel Perez, the Republican speaker of the Florida House. "This clearly was not his intent, to defund" Tri-Rail, Dech said. Perez is "very interested in finding a solution in Tallahassee," he said. FDOT told Tri-Rail earlier this year that it would eventually cut its contributions, but did not say when. Officials for South Florida's three counties have been discussing since spring the possibility of each agency giving Tri-Rail $10 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Palm Beach County Commissioner Marci Woodward said it will be tough to persuade her fellow commissioners to spend tax money servicing the state-owned train tracks on which three rail lines run: Tri-Rail, Amtrak and privately owned freight train CSX. "I can't sell my board on the maintenance of operations of the line for freight, Amtrak and Tri-Rail," Woodward said. "For us, this is an ask for us to take money out of property taxes. ... It's money we don't have." State board member: It's time for counties to step up Passengers can be seen buying tickets for a ride on Tri-Rail through a window near Track 1 in West Palm Beach. The regional rail line is trying to determine how to provide existing levels of service in the face of a substantial state budget cut. FDOT's representative on Tri-Rail's board, Steven Braun, countered: "The counties have really been stagnant in their contribution," he said, adding that the department has in the past given the rail service "way more" than $42 million. In response, Regalado said FDOT's I-95 express toll lane revenues should go to Tri-Rail, not the department or its lanes. "We are the solution to congestion on I-95," she said. The toll money, she said, "is extracted from our residents for the express lane and that money disappears. That is not money that the counties see." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I-95 express lanes reach from Miami-Dade County to Boca Raton, and FDOT has plans to bring them up to Okeechobee Boulevard in West Palm Beach. Tri-Rail could also make money by allowing real estate development around its stations, Regalado said, thus collecting rents from businesses and residents. Brightline does this, and several failed attempts have been made around some Tri-Rail stations. A sign at the West Palm Beach Tri-Rail station lists some of the stops on the southbound train to Miami. The regional rail line is trying to determine how to provide existing levels of service in the face of a substantial state budget cut. But FDOT owning the track and some property along it makes this almost impossible, Regalado said, due to rules and restrictions on what can be done with state property. Businesses such as restaurants that want to open up shop at Tri-Rail stations also have a tough time, Regalado said, because of the burden of complying with regulations from Tri-Rail and FDOT. Perhaps, Regalado said, the solution is for Tri-Rail to enter into a 99-year lease with FDOT, allowing the passenger rail operator to run the stations more like a business in order to make money. Board members did not comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another drain on Tri-Rail's finances, Regalado said, were state requirements to build and maintain the "expensive" pedestrian bridges connecting the northbound and southbound tracks at each of the train's 19 stations. As for immediate cuts, Dech said July 25 that Tri-Rail is looking at ending a voucher program paying for passengers' rides on Uber, Lyft and taxis to and from train stations. Tri-Rail launched the program in summer 2024 and has provided rides for thousands of passengers since then. Tri-Rail also ended its late-night service June 30 because of low ridership. It had launched the service in July 2024. Ann Marie Clark, left, and Zamoya Henderson ride the Tri-Rail Express train to Miami from West Palm Beach early on July 1, 2024. The rail line is trying to determine how to provide existing levels of service in the face of a substantial state budget cut. COVID-19 relief money from the Biden administration's American Rescue Plan in 2021 has helped keep Tri-Rail afloat, but that money will likely run out by the end of 2026, Dech has said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tri-Rail sometimes runs late trains for special events, such as a 1 a.m. ride from Miami on March 29 and March 30 for revelers attending the Ultra Music Festival. The train also ran special late-night trains in October from its Golden Glades station in Miami for Taylor Swift fans attending her Eras Tour concert at the nearby Hard Rock Stadium. Tri-Rail runs every day between Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties. It includes stops in or near downtown West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami and all three major commercial airports across South Florida: Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood and Miami International. Round-trip fares for nondisabled adults range from $5 to $17.50, depending on how far one wants to go. Tri-Rail board members discussed Friday the possibility of raising fares, but no consensus emerged. The train last raised rates in 2020. Chris Persaud covers transportation in Palm Beach County for The Palm Beach Post. Email news tips and ideas to cpersaud@pbpost.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Tri-Rail train seeks solutions for unexpected $27M Florida budget cut The trial of a Florida man charged with killing his ex-wife and her partner in their home near Lake Linganore in August 2024 has been postponed until March 2026. A three-week trial for David Phillip Turner had been scheduled to start Tuesday in Frederick County Circuit Court. Turner, 34, of Miami, is accused of murdering his ex-wife, Crimea Malita Baker, 33, and her partner, Sean Antoine Lange, 34, at the home they shared on Mandalong Court near Lake Linganore in the early-morning hours of Aug. 25, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is being held without bail at the Frederick County Detention Center, according to online court records. A jury trial had been scheduled to start Tuesday in Frederick County Circuit Court, and stretch until Aug. 22. The trial has been rescheduled for late March 2026, with a motions hearing scheduled in February, State's Attorney's Office spokeswoman Jacqueline Rottmann wrote in an email Monday. Turner is charged with two counts of first-degree murder and use of a firearm in a violent crime and one count of home invasion. He was extradited to Maryland from Florida in December, after being arrested there in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Turner fired his lawyer at the end of April, and had not hired a new attorney, prosecutors wrote in a motion earlier this summer requesting a postponement. Online court records did not list a new attorney to represent Turner as of Monday. The 20-day trial that was expected to start Tuesday would have required about 35 witnesses from various states, requiring extensive coordination of their travel, the prosecutors wrote in their motion requesting a postponement. Since representing himself, Turner has filed a variety of motions challenging various elements of the case, as well as one asking that Judge Terrence J. McGann be removed from the case and another judge assigned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Part of Turner's argument in the July 15 motion was that McGann, a retired judge from Montgomery County, "does not have an active career and therefore does not have incentive to make conservative and fair judgements as he is not worried about future appoints [sic] or a future election." In another motion, filed July 17, Turner objected to a mental competency evaluation that McGann ordered, and asserted that the judge was biased against him because Turner had challenged some of the court's rulings. Shell casings found Police believe Turner traveled from Florida to Frederick County in August 2024, and killed Baker and Lange in the early-morning hours of Aug. 25. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charging documents in the case indicate that 44 shell casings and one live round were found at the scene. There were four children age 13 and under in the home at the time of the shooting. Three of them were the children of Baker and Turner and one was the child of Baker and Lange, The Frederick News-Post previously reported. According to charging documents, police responded to the familys home at approximately 7 a.m. on Aug. 25 after receiving a call for help from one of the children. The child reported hearing gunshots around 1:25 a.m. When police arrived, some of the children were reportedly walking down the stairs and pointing toward the master bedroom upstairs where the shootings are believed to have taken place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another child later emerged from the basement, where the child was believed to have been hiding. Turner and Baker were divorced in 2019. A Toyota Highlander with similar characteristics to Turners was captured on surveillance cameras at approximately 12:53 a.m. on Aug. 25, parking on Bodkin Way, near the house where the shootings took place. The same vehicle was captured on surveillance cameras driving on Saponi Drive toward Eaglehead Drive at approximately 1:31 a.m., according to charging documents. Eleanor is joined by Tribune politics editor Jasper Scherer and fellow radio-head Mark Davis, host of The Mark Davis Show on 660 AM The Answer in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, to talk about the GOPs outlook for 2026. The gang breaks down why 2024 was such a good year for Republicans, why 2026 might defy conventional midterm wisdom and whether theres a scandal out there that could imperil Attorney General Ken Paxtons support in Texas. Watch the video above, or subscribe to the TribCast on iTunes, Spotify, or RSS. New episodes every Tuesday. This weeks episode of the TribCast is supported by members of the Texas Tribune. Texas needs trusted journalism. Help sustain fact-based reporting with your donation. Become a member of The Texas Tribune today at texastribune.org/donate. The lineup for The Texas Tribune Festival continues to grow! Be there when all-star leaders, innovators and newsmakers take the stage in downtown Austin, Nov. 1315. The newest additions include comedian, actor and writer John Mulaney; Dallas mayor Eric Johnson; U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minnesota; New York Media Editor-at-Large Kara Swisher; and U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso. Get your tickets today! TribFest 2025 is presented by JPMorganChase. David Perkins, assistant dean of manufacturing and maintenance at Trident Technical College, instructs students in the college's Future Ready Certificate program, aimed at high school students unsure about a career path after graduation. (Photo provided by Trident Technical College) After completing the Future Ready Certificate program at Trident Technical College, one Berkeley County high school student scored an apprenticeship with Boeing. A second will go on to study air conditioning and refrigeration at the technical college in the fall. And a third enlisted in the military to train in mechanical assembly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These students went from having no idea what they want to do after high school to pursuing jobs and studies in the trades and technical fields. Nine of the programs first 10 students all from Berkeley County have chosen a career field since completing the courses in May. The still-undecided 10th student is a rising senior, said Robert Elliott, dean of manufacturing and maintenance at the Charleston-area technical college. With the pilot a success, the private grant-funded program is expanding for the semester that starts next month. Eligibility opens to students in Charleston and Dorchester counties, and the number of high school juniors and seniors enrolled doubles to 20. In the 18-week, four-course program, students learn science, technology, engineering and math concepts, as well as problem solving and communication skills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The demand for industrial and manufacturing employees is high, and Trident is an important part of the pipeline to fill the need, said David Perkins, assistant dean of manufacturing and maintenance. As such, these grants have far-reaching potential as they will impact individuals, businesses and industries. Students in Trident Technical Colleges Future Ready Certificate program race go-karts they built as part of the four-course program aimed at high school students unsure about a career path after graduation. (Photo provided by Trident Technical College) In one course, students build a go-kart. The process teaches them about precision measuring, circuits and the basics of electricity, assembly and data collection. To complete the course, they must give a presentation on their process and findings. In turn, they earn academic credits they can apply to both their high school graduation requirements and a South Carolina technical college degree. Our goal is to take these students that really dont have a pathway forward and give them an idea of whats out there, Elliott said. Get them in the field, get them excited and motivated about learning. Give them some kind of passion for the workforce after graduation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elliott said Trident Tech identified 4,000 high school graduates in the tri-county area last year that did not go on to one of South Carolinas public colleges or universities. Thats more than half of all high school seniors enrolled in the areas public schools, according to data from the state Education Department. There could be several explanations for this, he said. Students may have gone to school in a different state, enlisted in the military or went to work straight out of high school. But Elliott said he still finds that number staggering. Future Ready students also tour area employers, including Mercedes-Benz, where they watched a van being assembled from start to finish. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Little things like that open their eyes, expose them to whats available and they can figure out what they want to do, Elliott said. The experience was enough to convince one student to enroll to study automation at Wofford College, Elliott said. Elliott also keeps a note from one of the Future Ready participants, for whom he wrote a letter of reference for, on his desk as a reminder. Thank you for the opportunity you have given me, it reads. Funding for supplies for the Future Ready program comes from the Bosch Community Fund, Volvo and Boeing. Participating students are recommended to the program by their high school guidance counselor and attend free of charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our support for the Future Ready Certificate program reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering the next generation of skilled workers in the aerospace and manufacturing sectors, said Scott Stocker, general manager of Boeings 787 program in South Carolina. Engaging high school students in hands-on manufacturing training fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation, preparing them to drive the industrys future. Trident Tech will hold an information session about the program Monday for parents and students, Elliott said. Thats shortly before the school year begins for students in the tri-countys four K-12 school districts. The opening dates are Aug. 6 for Dorchester 2, Aug. 7 for Dorchester 4, Aug. 12 for Charleston County and Aug. 13 for Berkeley County students. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Maps of childhood immunization coverage in African countries at regional level for 2020. Credit: Nguyen PT et al., 2025, PLOS Medicine, CC-BY 4.0 creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ In the last two decades, childhood immunization coverage improved significantly across most African countries. However, at least 12 countries are unlikely to achieve global targets for full immunization by 2030, according to a new study published in PLOS Medicine by Phuong The Nguyen of Hitotsubashi University, Japan, and colleagues. Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect children from deadly diseases, yet immunization coverage is still suboptimal in many African countries. Monitoring and progress in childhood immunizations at the national and local level is essential for refining health programs and achieving global targets in these countries. In the new study, researchers used childhood immunization data contained in approximately 1 million records from 104 nationally representative Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) conducted in 38 African countries between 2000 and 2019. Using modeling techniques, they estimated immunization coverage trends through 2030 and assessed disparities across geographic regions and between socioeconomic groups. The data showed overall improvements in immunization coverage between 2000 and 2019. It forecast that, if current trends continue, most countries are projected to meet or exceed targets for achieving 80% or 90% coverage of vaccines against tuberculosis, measles, polio, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and tetanus. However, 12 of 38 countries are not on track to meet full immunization goals, including high-development nations like South Africa, Egypt, and Congo Brazzaville. The study also pinpointed significant socioeconomic inequalities in coverage, with gaps in coverage of up to 58% between wealth quintiles. While these disparities were present across all countries, most are projected to shrink by 2030except in Nigeria and Angola, where inequalities are expected to persist or grow. "These achievements are likely the result of sustained progress driven by decades of national and sub-national initiatives along with international support aimed at prioritizing immunization," the authors say. "However, progress toward full immunization coverage remains slow in the 12 African countries examined. In most African nations, challenges related to vaccine affordability, accessibility, and availability remain major obstacles, driven by weak primary health care systems and limited resources." The authors add, "This study shows that while childhood immunization coverage has improved in Africa, progress is uneven. Many countries and regions remain off track to meet global targets by 2030." The authors conclude, "Conducting this study reinforced how critical reliable sub-national data is for identifying communities being left behind. We hope the findings will help inform more equitable and targeted immunization strategies." More information: Nguyen PT, et al. Progress and inequality in child immunization in 38 African countries, 20002030: A spatio-temporal Bayesian analysis at national and sub-national levels. PLOS Medicine (2025). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004664 Journal information: PLoS Medicine PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (AP) Legislators in Trinidad and Tobago have extended a state of emergency after the attorney general said the twin-island nations prison system has been compromised. He blamed prison officers and even attorneys of helping inmates accused of plotting to kill high-ranking officials. Authorities recently moved high-risk prisoners to military bases as part of a recent crackdown on jailed gang leaders accused of using smuggled cellphones to plot a series of assassinations, robberies and kidnappings with help from criminal associates on the outside. Attorney General John Jeremie revealed to Parliament on Monday that some prison guards could openly be heard warning inmates when specialized police agents showed up to conduct prison raids, and he also accused some attorneys of illegally helping those behind bars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The system has been compromised, and it has been serving inmates as a protected criminal command center, Jeremie said. The latest state of emergency in Trinidad and Tobago was extended for three months after authorities warned that the threat of a plot to kill key government officials and attack public institutions still exists. The initial emergency was declared on July 18 and was expected to last 15 days. However, the Caribbean nations Parliament convened an extraordinary sitting on Monday to extend the measure until late October. We are here for an extension, we are here because the threat exists, Saddam Hosein, legal affairs minister, said during the sitting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prisoners who were deemed high risk were moved to military bases in west Trinidad, but that didn't deter attempts to interfere with their detention, according to the attorney general. Those locations that they were removed to were very recently also infiltrated by two drones, Jeremie said, adding the military thwarted those attempts. Meanwhile, the Prison Officers Association, which represents prison guards, has condemned the accusations against the guards. Its the second state of emergency that the twin-island republic implements in a matter of months. Last December, authorities took similar action, citing concerns about gang violence. That state of emergency lasted until mid-April. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While members of Parliament from both the government and the opposition unanimously voted in favor of extending the emergency, the main opposition questioned whether there had been any major arrests in the first 10 days of the measure being in place. Government officials noted that police have arrested more than 340 people and launched over 800 operations so far. The extended emergency was approved a day after Trinidad and Tobago marked 35 years since the failed coup by the Islamist group Jamaat-al-Muslimeen, which left 24 people dead. The attorney general referenced that insurrection, saying the present circumstances are not dissimilar from those at that time. HOWARD COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) A truck driver was hospitalized Tuesday following a crash on Interstate 70 in Howard County. Maryland State Police (MSP) told DC News Now that the single-vehicle crash happened around 11:20 a.m. on July 29 on the westbound side of I-70, near Exit 73, in the Lisbon area. Car bursts into flames on DC highway; no injuries reported The driver of the truck was taken to the hospital for treatment, and their condition is unknown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As troopers continue their investigation, one lane on I-70 West remains blocked off. Drivers are encouraged to seek alternative routes until the crash is cleared. The crash remains under investigation. Check DCNewsNow.com for updates. To keep up with the latest news and weather updates, download our Mobile App on iPhone or Android. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. WASHINGTON Trucking has welcomed FMCSAs effort to strip away regulatory red tape aimed at easing compliance burdens for motor carriers based on comments filed with the agency. Among a slate of 18 deregulatory actions taken by FMCSA in May were several that had the potential to be particularly helpful for carriers without compromising safety including a proposed rule to rescind a requirement that a truck drivers electronic logging device (ELD) operators manual be kept inside the truck. There is no readily apparent benefit to continuing to require that the users manual be in the [truck] FMCSA stated in the proposal, and most of those commenting on it agreed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Removing the manual-carry requirement reduces clutter in the vehicle cab, simplifies compliance audits, and allows fuel marketers to focus training efforts on ensuring their drivers are proficient in using ELDs not in maintaining duplicative documentation, commented Rob Underwood, president of the Energy Marketers of America (EMA), whose members operate tank trucks that transport much of the countrys retail motor and heating fuel products. This proposal exemplifies a practical approach to regulatory reform that retains core safety objectives while reducing paperwork burdens for small businesses. Veolia North America, an environmental services company that hauls hazardous materials, believes that while it is a priority to ensure that drivers are trained in how to use their ELD system, training programs should already emphasize driver proficiency with the ELD system and access to its support resources, wrote Jennifer Fletcher, the companys transportation compliance director, in comments to the agency. We believe this change will reduce regulatory burden without compromising safety and improve the efficiency of operations and inspections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most commenters agreed. No one should receive an FMCSA violation because they dont have an instruction manual for a device that they should know how to use and that also has a digital manual on it, said one. Another thought the rule should be left in place. There are so many systems out there and they are all different. Whats the big deal about keeping an operating manual on hand? FMCSA has also proposed revising a requirement that motor carriers and intermodal equipment providers sign and return completed roadside inspection forms to the state agency that issued it within 15 days, certifying that all necessary repairs have been made. The problem with the federal regulation is that not all state agencies require that the forms be returned, and such a regulation requiring carriers to return them to states that dont require or request them creates an unnecessary burden, according to FMCSA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The solution: remove the requirement that roadside inspection forms be returned to the issuing agency unless the agency requires it. The change was prompted by a petition filed by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) in 2024. This provides regulatory relief for industry while still allowing jurisdictions the flexibility to require the forms be returned, should they see a safety benefit to doing so, CVSA commented to FMCSA in recognizing its petition, which would remove an unnecessary burden on industry without negatively impacting safety. EMA agreed, commenting that the regulation has outlived its utility in an era of electronic records and digital inspection processes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the energy marketing industry, this targeted deregulatory step would free up resources to support the safe and timely delivery of fuels. Medical treatment accident reporting Modifying the definition of medical treatment for the purpose of accident reporting by motor carriers, based on guidelines already in place, will clarify for the trucking industry what constitutes an accident, FMCSA has asserted in another proposed rule. The agency proposes adding to the regulations a paragraph stating that medical treatment does not include x-rays or other imaging, such as CT scans, and a person who does not receive treatment for diagnosed injuries or other medical intervention directly related to the accident has not received medical treatment. The American Trucking Associations commented that while the change is welcome, the rulemaking should go further. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obtaining medical information regarding a third-party involved in a CMV [commercial motor vehicle] crash can be incredibly difficult, and at times, unfeasible, wrote ATA Chief Operating Officer Dan Horvath. Motor carriers who have done their due diligence yet failed to obtain this information for reasons beyond their control should not be found in violation for omissions of medical information. We encourage the agency to consider this as it finalizes its rulemaking. Related articles: Click for more FreightWaves articles by John Gallagher. The post Trucking welcomes FMCSAs deregulation push appeared first on FreightWaves. URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) The Urbana City Council appointed a new City Administrator, the council announced Monday evening. Following a thorough interview process with staff and council, Darius White was named to the role and will officially begin his duties on Aug. 4. He brings experience in leadership, community engagement and economic development to the role, the city said in a press release. Construction on Champaign-Urbanas Hope Village kicks off Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The City of Urbana is proud to welcome Darius White to our leadership team, said Urbana Mayor DeShawn Williams. He brings a fresh perspective, a deep commitment to public service, and the steady, thoughtful leadership needed to help guide Urbana into the future. Most importantly, he is of this community. Im confident hell be a strong collaborator as we continue working to build a more connected, inclusive, and forward-looking Urbana. Most recently, White served as the Senior Regional Economic Development Manager for the East Central Region within the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity. In this role, the city said he led key initiatives that focused on things like economic development and grant opportunities for communities in East Central Illinois. White was recognized for his collaborative leadership style and commitment to responsive, community-centered governance. Im truly honored to serve as Urbanas next City Administrator, White said. Im excited to join a team of dedicated staff, the Mayor, and City Council, and I look forward to working together to help Urbana thrive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. A New Jersey man argues Alina Habba's appointment as acting U.S. attorney was illegal and should lead to dismissal of federal charges he faces. (Photo by Greg Skidmore) The Department of Justice in a new court filing argues that acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba was properly appointed because the administration fired the deputy selected by judges to replace Habba before their order could go into effect. The administrations Tuesday filing is the latest step in the Trump administrations attempt to keep in place a controversial prosecutorial nominee who faces statutory barriers to remaining in office and whose nomination has yet to win approval by the Senate Judiciary Committee, let alone by the full chamber. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The filing comes five days after Habba, facing a statutory deadline, resigned as U.S. attorney and was named first assistant U.S. attorney, a Trump administration maneuver to keep her in the post. The administration says that because the U.S. attorney post was vacant, Habba immediately assumed the role. Ms. Habba is validly serving as the Acting United States Attorney. The Attorney General properly appointed her as the First Assistant United States Attorney; the First Assistant can serve as the Acting United States Attorney under the Federal Vacancies Reform Act when that office is vacant, Department of Justice attorneys wrote. Habbas reappointment is the focus of a claim by an Irvington man facing drug and gun charges. The man, Julien Giraud, on Sunday asked the court to bar his prosecution, arguing that her reappointment violates federal statutes and allowing her to supervise his case would infringe on his due process rights. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, above, named Alina Habba New Jerseys first assistant U.S. attorney last week, a move that the Trump administration says makes Habba acting U.S. attorney. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Habbas road to becoming New Jerseys acting U.S. attorney was winding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was originally installed as interim U.S. Attorney on March 28, starting a 120-day clock that ended July 26. Trump nominated her for U.S. Senate confirmation on June 30. Her tenure has included a rebuke from a federal judge over swiftly dropped criminal charges against Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, a Democrat, that spurred a malicious prosecution lawsuit filed by Baraka. She also faced criticism for telling a right-wing podcast host that she would use her office to turn New Jersey red. New Jerseys District Court judges met last Tuesday to select her successor as called for by federal law and chose her deputy, Desiree Grace, instead of Habba. The administration then launched a game of musical chairs. Attorney General Pam Bondi fired Grace, and Trump withdrew Habbas nomination from Senate consideration. Habba resigned as U.S. attorney, and Bondi immediately named her a special attorney and authorized her to conduct in the District of New Jersey any kind of legal proceedings, civil or criminal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, Bondi designated her as the districts first assistant U.S. attorney, triggering a separate law that elevates top deputies to lead the office in an acting capacity for up to 210 days, with the chance of longer tenures. Girauds argument which is being heard in Pennsylvania to avoid any conflict with the New Jersey judges who chose to replace Habba poses two major challenges for the administration. One appointment statute bars first assistants from being elevated to acting heads if they did not hold the first assistant position for at least 90 days in the year preceding the creation of a vacancy. Habba first held the position on July 24, more than 200 days after Philip Sellinger, the states last Senate-confirmed U.S. attorney, resigned. The administrations Tuesday filing does not address that argument other than to say Habba did not previously serve as the first assistant. The other barrier is Habbas former status as a U.S. attorney nominee. The same statute bars individuals from being elevated if the President submits a nomination of such person to the Senate for appointment to such office. Government attorneys argue that no longer applies to Habba because her nomination was withdrawn. The statute does not say the prohibition ends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lifetime ban of that sort would have no logical relationship to the distinct separation-of-powers problem that Congress sought to address in [the statute], the administration argued. Girauds filing challenging Habbas appointment has already disrupted criminal prosecutions in New Jersey. More discord could be on the horizon. Unlike rank-and-file prosecutors and others employed in U.S. attorney offices, assistant U.S. attorneys including first assistants are legally direct subordinates of the U.S. attorney general. In other words, though a U.S. attorney may supervise them day-to-day, their prosecutorial power flows from the attorney general. That means the office could be allowed to continue operations under the supervision of assistant U.S. attorneys even if the court finds Habbas reappointment was improper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administration argues supervision would still fall to Habba in that case because Bondi appointed Habba as a special attorney and delegated to her the authority to supervise all pending prosecutions in the District of New Jersey. Regardless of whether Ms. Habba technically qualifies as Acting United States Attorney, she could supervise this case pursuant to her direct delegation of authority from the Attorney General, government lawyers argued in Tuesdays filing. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The Trump administration escalated its battle Monday to cast as rogue partisans federal judges who have blocked President Donald Trumps priorities, this time taking aim at James Boasberg, the chief judge of the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced her office had filed a misconduct complaint against Boasberg over comments, reported recently in right-leaning news outlets, that Boasberg made at a meeting of judges in March with Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts in attendance. These comments have undermined the integrity of the judiciary, and we will not stand for that, Bondi wrote on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the complaint, which was obtained by POLITICO and signed by Bondis chief of staff Chad Mizelle, Boasberg attempted to improperly influence Roberts and two dozen other judges by suggesting the Trump administration might disregard rulings of federal courts and trigger a constitutional crisis. Days after the alleged remarks, Boasberg, an Obama appointee, rejected the administrations efforts to summarily deport hundreds of Venezuelan nationals to a notorious prison in El Salvador, finding many of the deportations abused due process. Despite the order, the administration disembarked most of the Venezuelans in El Salvador, a decision Boasberg had suggested flagrantly defied his order. Notably, the Supreme Court later vacated Boasbergs order, saying the Venezuelan men should have filed lawsuits in the Texas district where they had been held before their deportation. Mizelle argued that Boasbergs views expressed at the conference violated the presumption of regularity that courts typically afford to the Executive Branch. And the Bondi aide said that the administration has followed all court orders, though several lower courts have found that the administration defied their commands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boasbergs alleged comments came on March 11 at a twice-yearly meeting of the Judicial Conference of the U.S., a policymaking body for the federal judiciary. Roberts presides over the closed-door conference, which has 27 members and includes the chief judges of each judicial circuit and a district judge from that circuit. Boasbergs remarks at the conference came after weeks of Trump allies inside and outside the administrationsuggesting judges who rule against the president should be impeached and disfavored court orders should be ignored. Judges at every level including justices of the Supreme Court have raised the specter of defiance by the administration and urged officials to respect court orders regardless of which court or judge issues them. Jeffrey Sutton, the chief judge of the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals who briefed journalists after the conference that day, said several lawmakers were in attendance, including Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), as well as Reps. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) and Hank Johnson (D-Ga.). It is unclear whether the lawmakers heard Boasbergs remarks. A spokesperson for Boasberg did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mizelles complaint falls to Sri Srinivasan, the chief judge of the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals in Washington, who oversees judicial disciplinary matters for judges in that circuit. Federal judges are ordinarily barred from making out-of-court public comments about pending or impending matters. Its unclear whether Boasbergs remarks at the judges meeting qualify and whether he was speaking about any case he knew to be pending or imminent. The complaint also makes more general claims that his statements undermined public confidence in the integrity of the judiciary. Mizelle also filed a complaint earlier this year against Washington-based U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes for her sharp-elbowed comments about the Justice Departments arguments in a lawsuit seeking to block Trumps transgender military ban. In March, the Justice Department asked the D.C. Circuit to remove Boasberg from the deportation case and reassign it to another judge, an extraordinary step. The appeals court never acted on that request but has paused his orders related to potential contempt proceedings. After Boasbergs March ruling, Trump called for the judge's impeachment, labeling him a troublemaker and agitator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new complaint again asks for Boasbergs removal from the deportation case and for him to be reprimanded publicly. It also raises the prospect of his fellow judges calling for his impeachment over the remarks. The administration has recently escalated its fight with the judiciary in two other arenas. The Justice Department sued the entire federal bench in Maryland over a policy granting an automatic 48-hour hold on deportation cases. And the administration publicly attacked judges in New Jersey for appointing a veteran federal prosecutor as the states U.S. attorney an effort to push aside Trumps pick for the post, his former personal attorney Alina Habba. In one of its most significant reversals on climate policy to-date, the Trump administration on Tuesday proposed to repeal a 2009 scientific finding that human-caused climate change endangers human health and safety, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced. If successful, the repeal could strip away the federal governments most powerful way to control the countrys planet-warming pollution and fight climate change. The repeal was based in part on a hastily produced report authored by five researchers who have spent years sowing doubt in the scientific consensus around climate change that questions the severity of the impacts of climate change. The 2009 scientific finding at the heart of this repeal has served as the basis of many of the Environmental Protection Agencys most significant regulations to protect human health and environment, and decrease climate pollution from cars, power plants and the oil and gas industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zeldin on Tuesday spoke proudly of his agencys move to repeal the endangerment finding as the largest deregulatory action in the history of America, speaking on Ruthless, a conservative podcast, and referred to climate change as dogma rather than science. This has been referred to as basically driving a dagger into the heart of the climate change religion, Zeldin said. In addition to reversing the endangerment finding, the EPAs proposal also seeks to repeal rules that regulate greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles, since they stem from the finding. The Biden EPA sought to tighten those standards to prod the auto industry to make more fuel-efficient hybrids and electric vehicles. The text of the proposal said that while greenhouse gas emissions have continued to rise in the atmosphere, it has been driven primarily by increased emissions from foreign sources, and has happened without producing the degree of adverse impacts to public health and welfare in the United States that the EPA anticipated in the 2009 Endangerment Finding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US is the worlds second largest emitter of greenhouse gases, and historically has emitted more planet-warming pollution than any other country. Many rigorous scientific findings since 2009 have showed both climate pollution and its warming effects are not just harming public health but killing people outright. In the nearly 16 years since the EPA first issued the Supreme Court-ordered endangerment finding, the world has warmed an additional 0.45 degrees Celsius (or 0.81 degrees Fahrenheit) to 1.4 degrees Celsius, according to climate scientist Zeke Hausfather. Numerous international and US scientific findings have found increasingly incontrovertible evidence that humans are causing this warming by burning oil, gas and coal. Even that fraction of a degree, when spread across the planet, has had an enormous impact on our weather, water and food systems. The world is at a dangerous threshold with individual years, including 2024, already exceeding the 1.5-degree guardrail laid out in the Paris Agreement the point at which scientists believe the effects of climate change will likely be near impossible to reverse. Many climate scientists no longer believe the long-term target of 1.5-degrees is achievable, as fossil fuel pollution continues and the world heads closer to 3 degrees Celsius of warming during this century. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zeldin said during the podcast he believes the scientific finding that climate change threatens human health was a guise used to attack polluting industries, and that the human health finding was an oversimplified, I would say inaccurate, way to describe it. The Trump administration commissioned the new report on climate change and climate science in conjunction with its proposed regulatory repeals, Energy Sec. Chris Wright announced during a Tuesday afternoon press conference. The document calls into question the seriousness of climate impacts and informed EPAs repeal of the endangerment finding, according to the proposal. Wrights Energy Department recently hired three prominent researchers who have questioned and even rejected the overwhelming scientific consensus on human-caused climate change, CNN previously reported John Christy and Roy Spencer, both research scientists at the University of Alabama at Huntsville, and Steven E. Koonin of Stanford Universitys Hoover Institution. Christy, Spencer and Koonin are on the byline of the DOE report, along with Canadian economist Ross McKitrick and Georgia Tech professor emeritus Judith Curry also considered to have opinions on climate change that contradict the scientific consensus. The group took around two months to complete the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wright said climate change is a real, physical phenomenon that is worthy of study and even some action. But what we have done instead is nothing related to the actual science of climate change or pragmatic ways to make progress, Wright said. The politics of climate change have shrunk your life possibilities, have put your business here at threat. Hausfather told CNN he was surprised this would be released as an official publication, and said it was notable the Trump administration had selected five authors who are well known to have fringe views of climate science to author it. It reads like a blog post a somewhat scattershot collection of oft-debunked skeptic claims, studies taken out of context, or cherry-picked examples that are not representative of broader climate science research findings, he said. The fact that this has been released at the same time that the government has hidden the actual congressionally mandated national climate assessments that accurately reflect the science only further shows how much of a farce this is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And Hausfather strongly pushed back the idea that the scientific record shows anything other than climate change presenting danger to humans. The findings of international climate scientists have been reaffirmed in the fourth and fifth US climate assessments, the former of which was released during the first Trump administration. Both the scientific certainty around climate change and evidence of the dangers it is causing have grown stronger since 2009, he said in an email. There is no evidence that has emerged or been published in the scientific literature in the past 16 years that would in any way challenge the scientific basis of the 2009 endangerment finding. Global warming is supercharging extreme weather events such as heavy precipitation, heat waves and wildfires. It is making these extremes more likely, intense and in some cases, longer-lasting. These changes in climate have moved out of the domain of pure science into the domain of everyday life, said Phil Duffy, a climate scientist and former Biden official in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Duffy, who lives in California, said he can now only buy wildfire insurance through the state insurer of last resort a reality for many Californians as wildfires are increasing in size amid hotter temperatures. The evidence (in 2009) was overwhelming, but its even stronger now, he said. This story has been updated with additional information. Rene Marsh contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The Trump administration on Monday told federal workers they can talk about religion at work, including by trying to "persuade others of the correctness of their own religious views." In a memo to the heads of federal agencies, the Office of Personnel Management the government's human resources arm said public employees have the right to religious expression in the workplace, citing civil rights law and the First Amendment. That includes the right to discuss religion, engage in "communal religious expressions" and display items such as bibles, crucifixes and mezuzahs on their desks, the memo states. "During a break, an employee may engage another in polite discussion of why his faith is correct and why the non-adherent should re-think his religious beliefs," it states. "However, if the non-adherent requests such attempts to stop, the employee should honor the request." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The five-page memo listed out other examples of religious expression that federal workers shouldn't be punished for. OPM said in its memo that employees can invite co-workers who belong to other religions to their church or put up invitations to Easter services on communal bulletin boards; staff can display religious posters, Veterans Affairs doctors can pray over their patients, and park rangers for the National Park Service can join their tour groups in prayer. According to the memo, agencies can still broadly limit staffers' speech for example, they can "require that employees perform official work while on duty," and they can ban employees from putting up posters of any kind, both religious and non-religious. It also said attempts to persuade co-workers about religion can't be "harassing in nature." Still, staff "must be allowed to engage in private religious expression in work areas to the same extent that they may engage in nonreligious private expression," the office said. The policy isn't entirely new. In 1997, the Clinton administration said federal employees can "discuss their religious views with one another" and "may even attempt to persuade fellow employees of the correctness of their religious views" but they "must refrain from such expression when a fellow employee asks that it stop." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For years, the Department of Labor's online religious discrimination guidelines have said staffers "who seek to proselytize in the workplace should cease doing so with respect to any individual who indicates that the communications are unwelcome." "Federal employees should never have to choose between their faith and their career," OPM Director Scott Kupor said Monday in a statement. "This guidance ensures the federal workplace is not just compliant with the law but welcoming to Americans of all faiths." Monday's memo comes amid a broader push by the Trump administration to let federal workers express religious beliefs. Earlier this month, OPM said federal agencies should "adopt a generous approach" when staffers ask for permission to work from home or change their schedules for religious reasons, citing a 2023 Supreme Court case in which a mail carrier requested Sundays off for religious reasons. In early February, shortly after returning to office, President Trump signed an executive order accusing the Biden administration of pervasive "anti-Christian weaponization of government." The order set up a task force to look into alleged anti-Christian bias. Months later, the State Department encouraged staff to report any allegations of bias. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The moves have drawn pushback. The Freedom From Religion Foundation called Monday's memo "outrageous and unconstitutional," arguing the guidance "purports to protect religious expression in the federal workplace but encourages outright proselytizing." "These shocking changes essentially permit workplace evangelizing, but worse still, allow supervisors to evangelize underlings and federal workers to proselytize the public they serve," the group's co-president, Annie Laurie Gaylor, said in a statement. John Oliver: The 60 Minutes Interview Finding the plane used for Argentina's dictatorship-era "death flights" | 60 Minutes Immigration agent told 18-year-old U.S. citizen "you got no rights here" during arrest EXCLUSIVE: The Department of Homeland Security is launching a major recruitment campaign as the agency seeks to grow amid mass deportation efforts and new funding from the Trump-backed congressional spending bill. The funding in the spending bill, dubbed the "One Big Beautiful Bill," provides funding to hire 10,000 new ICE agents. DHS is launching the "Defend the Homeland" campaign featuring posters depicting prominent figures, including President Donald Trump, Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. "The Biden Administration let in the WORST OF THE WORST from around the world. Thanks to President Trump, ICE is now empowered to go-after these heinous individualsarrest them and deport them. My message to law enforcement is this: We will never abandon you and we are doing everything we can to keep you safe," Noem stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump Suggests Border Crackdown Is 'Saving A Lot Of Money' After Stark Drop From Biden Era Crossings US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents look over lists of names and their hearing times and locations inside the Federal Plaza courthouse before making arrests on June 27, 2025 in New York. In addition, the ICE "America Needs You" web page features imagery of Uncle Sam, and says, "Your country is calling upon you to serve." The website touts three key roles: deportation officer, criminal investigator and general attorney, but there are a variety of listings on the federal governments job site that it links back to. Read On The Fox News App The agency is touting $50,000 signing bonuses, student loan relief, law enforcement availability pay of 25% for Homeland Security Investigations Special Agents, "administratively uncontrollable overtime" for ICE deportation officers, and retirement benefits. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, with varying age maximums for certain positions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Assaults On Ice Officers Surge 830% As Democrats Caught 'Doxing And Physically Assaulting' Agents: Dhs "Your country is calling on you to serve at ICE and defend the Homeland," Lyons said in a statement. "In the wake of the Biden administrations open border policies, the dedicated men and women of ICE now face unprecedented challenges in removing millions of criminal illegal aliens from our country. Thanks to the One Big Beautiful Bill, we now have funding to recruit and hire Americans who want to patriotically serve their country and protect American communities." Click Here For More Immigration Coverage "Under President Trump and Secretary Noems leadership, ICE is finally empowered to do their jobs again. Join ICE today and help us defend the Homeland," he continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recruitment effort comes as the agency continues to amp up operations to counter illegal immigration, including deporting those with criminal convictions and charges on top of entering the country illegally. Watch: Lawmakers Break Down How Billions In The 'Big, Beautiful Bill' Boost Trump's Immigration Crackdown Residents surround federal and Border Patrol agents who plan their escape after an immigrant raid on Atlantic Blvd. in Bell, Califonia on June 19, 2025. According to DHS, theres been an 830% increase in assaults on agents amid riots and protests throughout the country, including last month in the Los Angeles area. On the recruitment web page, the agency has "How dangerous is the work?" listed as a frequently asked question. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "ICE law enforcement officers should expect a certain level of risk when performing their duties; however, they are expertly trained and every precaution is taken by ICE when it comes to protecting its officers' well-being," the website states. Original article source: Trump admin unleashes crucial recruitment campaign with massive bonuses to bolster ICE ranks The Trump administration will allow federal workers to promote their religious beliefs to colleagues, display religious items at work and pray together or individually, according to a memorandum issued Monday by the Office of Personnel Management. The guidance, from OPM Director Scott Kupor, declares that federal agencies should allow personal religious expression by Federal employees to the greatest extent possible unless such expression would impose an undue hardship on business operations. This means that a federal worker, according to the memorandum, may engage another in polite discussion of why his faith is correct and why the non-adherent should re-think his religious beliefs, but if the nonadherent requests such attempts to stop, the employee should honor the request. The memorandum lays out the caveat: provided that such efforts are not harassing in nature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal workers will also be able to invite each other to religious services or pray in groups at the office when not on duty. Other examples of permitted religious activities listed by OPM state that a park ranger leading a tour through a national park is allowed to pray with a tour group or a doctor working at a Veterans Affairs hospital may pray over a patient. Workers may also display religious items on their desks. The memo advises agencies to review and, if needed, revise internal policies to ensure that they appropriately protect religious expression. Federal law already offers some protections for religious expression in the workplace. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 forbids employers from discriminating based on religion. They are required to make reasonable accommodations for their employees religious practices and beliefs unless it would be an undue hardship to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a news release, Kupor said the idea is to make the federal workplace not just compliant but welcoming to Americans of all faiths. The memo, issued by what is essentially the human resources department of the federal government, is the Trump administrations latest efforts around religion. In May, the president created a Religious Liberty Commission, and, in February, he signed an executive order forming a task force to eradicate anti-Christian bias. Were bringing religion back to our country, Trump promised at a prayer breakfast in Washington when he announced plans for the Religious Liberty Commission. CNNs Betsy Klein contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com * The 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) brought together representatives from around the world to explore avenues for the inclusive growth of artificial intelligence (AI). * Numerous outstanding cases demonstrated how Chinese enterprises, from leading AI model developers to industrial innovators, are leveraging AI technologies to share the benefits of AI development with more countries. * Building on its vision for inclusive AI development, China is actively promoting initiatives and alliances designed to consolidate, standardize, and promote global artificial intelligence cooperation. SHANGHAI, July 28 (Xinhua) -- The 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC), held from July 26 to 28 in Shanghai, brought together representatives from around the world to explore avenues for the inclusive growth of artificial intelligence (AI). China's approach offered insights into how AI can deliver shared benefits and help bridge the global intelligence divide. Under the theme "Global Solidarity in the AI Era," the 2025 WAIC attracted over 1,500 guests from more than 30 countries and regions for in-depth exchanges and high-level forums. Featuring a record-breaking 70,000-square-meter exhibition, the 2025 WAIC unveiled over 3,000 AI innovations, including over 100 global and China-first debuts, showcasing a dynamic vision for global AI cooperation. During the opening ceremony, several key initiatives and outcomes were announced, including an action plan for global AI governance, the International Open Source AI Cooperation Initiative, and the "AI from ChinaBenefits the World (2025)" case collection. This photo taken on July 26, 2025 shows the opening ceremony of the 2025 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in east China's Shanghai. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) MOBILIZING GLOBAL WISDOM At the main forum of the high-level meeting on global AI governance, global leaders reflected on the profound challenge of ensuring AI develops as a force for good rather than harm. Geoffrey Hinton, 2024 Nobel Laureate in Physics, underscored that one of humanity's greatest challenges is ensuring that intelligent AI systems are not only vastly capable but also continue to be aligned with human interests. Hinton likened the development of such systems to raising a tiger cub, highlighting the importance of guiding AI behavior before it grows beyond our control. He stressed that no single nation can tackle the risks of advanced AI alone, and that building AI that is both powerful and subservient will require sustained global cooperation. Echoing this view, a dialogue between former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and former Microsoft Executive Vice President Harry Shum explored how competition and cooperation must coexist in the AI era. Schmidt underlined the need for transnational cooperation to set rules for global competition and collaboration in AI. This exchange embodies WAIC's broader mission to advance AI development that is inclusive, responsible, and beneficial for all humanity. With vast data resources, diverse application scenarios, and surging market demand driven by accelerating digital transformation, China offers fertile ground for AI model training, iteration, and deployment, laying a strong foundation for global cooperation and scalable innovation, according to Gary Gu, technology consulting managing partner of EY Greater China. On July 26, an action plan for global AI governance was released. The plan outlines concrete steps to foster open collaboration and inclusive innovation, encouraging bold experimentation, building international platforms for scientific and technological cooperation, and cultivating a pro-innovation policy environment. It also calls for strengthened alignment in policy and regulation, and lower technical barriers to promote breakthroughs in AI technology innovation and widespread AI applications. Particular emphasis is placed on supporting countries in the Global South to develop AI technologies and services in line with their local needs, helping them genuinely access and apply AI. A staff member of Tencent (L) introduces Tairos, a modular embodied intelligence open platform, to visitors at the 2025 World AI Conference in east China's Shanghai, July 27, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Haoming) INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION At the 2025 WAIC, numerous outstanding cases demonstrated how Chinese enterprises, from leading AI model developers to industrial innovators, are leveraging AI technologies to share the benefits of AI development with more countries. This embodies China's commitment to ensuring that AI serves not only as a driver for technological advancement but also as a tool for fostering inclusive growth. At iFLYTEK's exhibition area, the Spark X1 large model unveiled on July 25 has drawn significant attention from international visitors, who asked it questions in their native languages. The model now supports over 130 languages and excels in translation, reasoning, and text generation, facilitating deeper cross-border communication and cooperation. "Our large model products are going global through intelligent terminals such as automobiles, and we are collaborating with partners in other countries on education and other fields," said Wu Junhua, vice president of iFLYTEK. "The overseas expansion of large models shows the globalization of technology. Chinese-origin large models have begun their acceleration run, empowering the world." CITIC Dicastal's plant in Morocco was listed as a "Lighthouse Factory" in January 2025, making it the first facility in Africa to achieve such recognition in the field of intelligent manufacturing. Representing a high level of global smart manufacturing, the plant has implemented over 40 digital use cases. From raw material selection to final packaging of aluminum wheels, every step is monitored and optimized in real time by intelligent systems. This has resulted in a 17 percent increase in overall equipment efficiency, a 27 percent boost in labor productivity, and a 31 percent reduction in defect rates. French multinational Schneider Electric has emerged as a model of collaborative AI innovation through deep integration with China's digital ecosystem. At the 2025 WAIC, Schneider Electric joined hands with several local partners to showcase cutting-edge industrial AI applications. These included Digital Nail Technology, which specializes in AI-powered digital planning in manufacturing and Chance Digital Science & Technology, which showcased breakthrough solutions in AI-driven digital reconstruction and twin modeling for process industries. These collaborations reflect a model of inclusive innovation, leveraging global expertise and China's vibrant AI ecosystem to accelerate real-world adoption and foster shared progress. "China's commitment to driving high-quality development through AI and technological innovation aligns perfectly with our vision of sustainable, green productivity. By partnering with leading Chinese enterprises, we are not only bringing global best practices to China but also exporting China's vibrant AI ecosystem and innovations to the world," said Philippe Rambach, Schneider Electric's Senior Vice President and Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer. "We aim to harness AI's full potential to build a smarter, greener future -- 'in China for China, in China for the world.'" Visitors try the WPS Office AI system at the 2025 World AI Conference in east China's Shanghai, July 27, 2025. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) PROMISING INITIATIVES, PARTNERSHIPS Building on its vision for inclusive AI development, China is actively promoting initiatives and alliances designed to consolidate, standardize, and promote global artificial intelligence cooperation. These efforts strongly focus on supporting developing countries as they seek to bridge the "intelligence divide," ensuring that the benefits of AI innovation are shared equitably. At the "Win-Win BRICS" forum held as part of the 2025 WAIC, representatives from many countries and international organizations gathered to discuss AI cooperation. The forum launched the BRICS AI Industry Cooperation Network, aimed at promoting standard alignment, policy dialogue, and practical AI collaboration. Zhang Jun, product lead of Baidu's PaddlePaddle framework, emphasized at the forum that open-source AI plays a vital role in driving inclusive technological development by making AI benefits more accessible. He noted that many of Baidus products and services are actively embracing large model technologies, and through open-source strategies, the company is working to extend AI capabilities to a broader user base. Another key milestone was the launch of the Global Call for AIM Global Centers of Excellence by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), aimed at accelerating AI application in manufacturing and promoting digital transformation across developing countries. This initiative fosters international collaboration and resource sharing to catalyze industrial AI innovation worldwide. Jason Slater, chief of division of digital transformation and artificial intelligence of UNIDO, praised China's support in Africa, especially in Ethiopia, highlighting its efforts to establish centers of excellence, expand technology access, enhance individual skills, and strengthen local innovation ecosystems -- bringing AI benefits to those who need them most. China's commitment to sharing AI governance experience and fostering international partnerships was also highlighted by the launch of "MAZU-Urban," an AI-powered early warning system for multi-hazard disaster prevention. Donated to Djibouti and Mongolia, this system exemplifies China's approach to embedding AI solutions in global public goods, enhancing resilience in vulnerable regions. (Reporting by Ye Ting, You Zhixin, Gong Wen, Huang Anqi and Dong Xue; video reporters: Sun Qing, Chen Jin; video editors: Li Ziwei, Liu Xiaorui, Yin Le and Liu Ruoshi) This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Device (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.device.2025.100865 A new swallowable device called PRIM (Pill for ROS-responsive Inflammation Monitoring) could someday make tracking inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tractas simple as checking the color of your stool. Researchers from Mass General Brigham and the University of Toronto designed and tested the device in preclinical models. In their proof-of-concept study, the pill correctly detected gut inflammation about 78% of the time. The researchers estimate the device would cost less than 50 cents to make, making it a promising option for widespread, regular at-home use. Their findings are published in Device. Currently, monitoring gut inflammation often requires unpleasant or expensive procedures like colonoscopies or sending stool samples to a labsteps that can be difficult or cumbersome for many patients to do regularly. "Millions of people around the world live with IBD, and many struggle with the burden of frequent, invasive monitoring," said co-senior author Yuhan Lee, Ph.D., an investigator in the Innovative Biomaterials Lab at Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), a founding member of the Mass General Brigham health care system. "This paper introduces a simple and affordable solution: an ingestible 'biosensor pill' that could be swallowed, like any other pill. With further development and testing in humans, this swallowable sensor could help patients and doctors catch flare-ups earlier, adjust treatments more effectively, and ultimately improve quality of life without the hassle of stool handling or hospital visits." Researchers designed the PRIM pill as a small capsule coated with a special polymer that reacts to inflammation. When levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS)a chemical marker of inflammationare elevated in the gut, the polymer breaks down and releases a blue dye. This visible signal can then be detected in the stool, signaling intestinal inflammation. The device was tested both in laboratory settings and in a rat model of colitis, using 36 capsules across healthy and inflamed conditions to evaluate its performance. In rats with colitis, the miniaturized PRIM device successfully identified intestinal inflammation with 78% sensitivity and 72% specificity. The blue dye it released was clearly visible in the animals' stool, while the device remained unopened and inactive in healthy rats, confirming its stability under non-inflammatory conditions. The research team is now working to adapt the PRIM pill for human use. This includes testing it in larger animal models and fine-tuning its sensitivity to detect even mild-to-moderate inflammation. The device has an estimated production cost of just $0.38 per unit. "This innovative device could transform how physicians monitor IBD by giving patients a clear, visual signal they can check at home," said co-senior author Caitlin L. Maikawa, Ph.D., a former postdoctoral researcher in Lee's lab at BWH. Maikawa is now an assistant professor at the University of Toronto's Institute of Biomedical Engineering. "It's designed to be low-cost, easy to use, and accessible for patients at home." More information: Zile Zhuang et al, A radically simple, ingestible colorimetric biosensor pill for cost-effective, non-invasive monitoring of intestinal inflammation, Device (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.device.2025.100865 Journal information: Device The Department of Justice has filed a misconduct complaint against US District Court Judge James Boasberg marking another formal challenge against a federal judge who has pushed back on the Trump administrations policies. The complaint, submitted Monday and obtained by CNN, alleges that Boasberg, the DC judge at the center of cases involving the administrations use of a colonial-era law to send undocumented immigrants to a notorious prison in El Salvador, made comments about President Donald Trump at a Judicial Conference meeting in March that undermined the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary. While there, Judge Boasberg attempted to improperly influence Chief Justice (John) Roberts and roughly two dozen other federal judges by straying from the traditional topics to express his belief that the Trump Administration would disregard rulings of federal courts and trigger a constitutional crisis, Attorney General Pamela Bondis chief of staff, Chad Mizelle, said in the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although his comments would be inappropriate even if they had some basis, they were even worse because Judge Boasberg had no basis, Mizelle argued, insisting that the Trump administration has complied with court orders. The complaint alleges that days after making the statements, Boasberg began acting on his preconceived belief that the Trump Administration would not follow court orders, pointing to the judges order restricting the administrations use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act. The Federalist reported on Boasbergs remarks at the conference earlier this month, citing a memorandum it obtained. In response to the concerns raised by Boasberg at the conference, Chief Justice Roberts expressed hope that would not happen and in turn no constitutional crisis would materialize, according to the memorandum. Bondi said on social media Monday night the complaint came at her direction, arguing that Boasbergs comments have undermined the integrity of the judiciary, and we will not stand for that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNN has reached out to Boasberg for comment. The move is yet another escalation in the Trump administrations conflicts with the judiciary and comes after the Department of Justice filed another misconduct complaint against a DC district court judge earlier this year. In February, the department accused Judge Ana Reyes of misconduct during hearings over Trumps executive order that called for banning transgender troops from serving in the US military, the Associated Press reported. The complaint against Boasberg asks the chief judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, Sri Srinivasan, to refer the complaint to a special investigative committee, reassign Boasbergs relevant cases to another judge, and impose appropriate disciplinary action, including a public reprimand and referral to the Judicial Conference for consideration of impeachment-related recommendations, if the committee finds willful misconduct. Its extremely unusual for the Justice Department to complain formally about a judges behavior rather than pursue its agenda through the court system directly. It is also unusual for a public debate to erupt around conversations between judges, which rarely come to light, at their private annual events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps rhetoric opposing the judiciary has been far more aggressive than during his first term. In March, Trump labeled Boasberg a Radical Left Lunatic Judge and called for his impeachment on social media. The action drew a rare rebuke from Roberts, who made a highly unusual statement shortly after Trumps posts. For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision, Roberts said in a statement released by the Supreme Court at the time. The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose. Federal judges hold lifetime appointments, and their impeachment and removal is extremely rare. The House of Representatives has impeached only 15 federal judges since 1803, and eight of those impeachments were followed by convictions in the Senate, according to New York Universitys Brennan Center for Justice. Boasberg had a relatively nonpartisan record before facing Trumps fury, CNN has previously reported. He was appointed to the DC district court by former President Barack Obama and was previously named to DCs local courts by former President George W. Bush. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boasberg was known for giving lenient punishments to January 6 rioters. In Trumps first term, he released FISA court materials that exposed huge problems with the FBIs probe into connections between Trumps 2016 campaign and Russias election meddling. He also paved the way for conservative groups to obtain some of Hillary Clintons emails from her private server. CNNs Hannah Rabinowitz, Katelyn Polantz, Tierney Sneed, John Fritze, Marshall Cohen and Casey Gannon contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The Trump administration just announced workplace rules that stand to make it easier for federal employees to pressure their colleagues to convert to their religion of choice. Donald Trump has openly stated his desire to disregard the constitutional separation of church and state. He has said the U.S. would be better off if conservative Christians had more power. And he has loaded his Religious Liberty Commission with Christian extremists who oppose church-state separation, as well. Thats important context for the U.S. Office of Personnel Managements recent memo, dated July 28, which lays out the administrations stance on religious expression in the federal workplace and includes an eyebrow-raising line about religious disputes: During a break, an employee may engage another in polite discussion of why his faith is correct and why the non-adherent should re-think his religious beliefs. However, if the non-adherent requests such attempts to stop, the employee should honor the request. Its easy to see people taking liberties with this guidance and potentially running roughshod over employees who may feel fearful of pushing back against the proselytizing. Its also not hard to imagine federal workplaces poorly enforcing the rule requiring employees to cease proselytizing when asked particularly under an administration that has shown a willingness to allow workplace discrimination and a Supreme Court that has shown favor to Christians expressing their religion in the workplace while seemingly disregarding people who might be discomforted by it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As The New York Times noted, the language of the OPM memo isnt entirely new and mirrors language followed by Bill Clintons administration three decades ago: The Clinton White House issued similar guidelines in 1997, though at greater length and with more detailed examples and caveats. The Trump administration did not say whether its guidelines superseded those issued in 1997. Neither set of directives affects the First Amendment to the Constitution or Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Indeed, its true that the current memo mirrors whats been done in the past which, to be clear, doesnt inherently mean the policy is, or was, a positive one. But the disturbing difference is that Trump and his administration have been more clear than any in recent memory in expressing the belief that Christians deserve preferential treatment and incomparable power. So its hard to fathom this policy deviating from that viewpoint in practice. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Jul. 29The Interior Department is taking additional steps to enable oil and gas drilling in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, revoking Biden-era documents that called for expanding "Special Areas" that receive extra protection and are known for their unique wildlife and subsistence values. The move continues the yearslong back-and-forth that has seen both Trump administrations take steps to loosen efforts by Democratic predecessors to limit oil and gas development in the reserve. The 23-million-acre reserve on Alaska's North Slope is home to ConocoPhillips' giant Willow oil field on its eastern flank, and is the subject of growing oil exploration in recent years. The current Special Areas, representing more than half the reserve, are Teshekpuk Lake, Utukok River Uplands, Colville River, Kasegaluk Lagoon and Peard Bay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A conservation group argued this week that the revocation of the documents makes a mockery of the Interior Department's ongoing public comment period that ends Monday regarding those enhanced protections for the areas. But Alaska's congressional delegation and a group representing elected Inupiaq leadership from Alaska's North Slope said Tuesday that they supported the Interior Department's actions. The revocation is related to a move by Interior in June to rescind a 2024, Biden-era rule regarding Special Areas. The comment period is part of that review ends. Interior says the rule "significantly expanded procedural requirements and created a presumption against oil and gas activity" in the areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of its effort to revoke that rule, the Trump administration on Monday said it was revoking three Biden-era policy documents. The revoked documents include a memorandum addressing interim management of the reserve and a report titled "Maximizing Protection in the National Petroleum Reserve Alaska." The documents were issued in the closing days of the Biden administration in January, part of a recommendation that about 3 million additional acres be classified as Special Areas, atop the 13 million acres that already have that designation. "Alaska's resource potential has been held hostage for years by anti-development ideologues," Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said in a Monday statement. "The Trump administration is delivering certainty for industry, opportunity for Alaskans and real energy security for the American people." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alaska's congressional delegation said the rescission of the documents supports balanced management between environmental protections and oil activity. "While the last administration sought to shut down our petroleum reserve and refused to meaningfully consult with the Alaska Natives who actually live on the North Slope Secretary Burgum and his team are decisively correcting that course," Sen. Lisa Murkowski said in a statement from the delegation. The Alaska Wilderness League said in a statement the documents that are being scrapped were created after a period of thorough public comment. Scrapping them undermines this new public comment period that ends Aug. 4, the group said. It also removes temporary protections that might have limited oil and gas activity while the Trump administration reviews the rule. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Today's action is a direct attack on science and traditional knowledge, putting iconic Western Arctic landscapes more at risk of oil and gas industrialization, when in fact the law requires strong protections," said Andy Moderow, senior director of policy at the Alaska Wilderness League. "The previous administration took a thoughtful, legally grounded approach to safeguard subsistence harvests of fish, caribou, and other resources." Moderow said the group will fight to restore the protections. The State Department said Monday it would not participate in an initiative from France and Saudi Arabia at the United Nations supporting a two-state solution to the Israeli and Palestinian conflict, criticizing the summit as harmful to ceasefire efforts between Israel and Hamas. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said the U.N. two-state solution conference is an ill-advised stunt that will further embolden Hamas and undermine our serious diplomatic efforts to end the war. The United States will not participate in the July UN two-state solution conference, Bruce wrote on social platform X. We will continue to work with partners towards a resolution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Trump has held back from endorsing long-standing U.S. policy supporting a two-state solution to end the Israeli and Palestinian conflict, which aims to establish a Palestinian state in the territories of the West Bank and Gaza Strip while preserving Israels security. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has for decades pushed policies aimed at undermining the establishment of a Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza. During a meeting at the White House in July, Trump deferred to Netanyahu on whether the Israeli leader supports a two-state solution. Netanyahu answered that Palestinians could have self-government, but that Israel should maintain ultimate security control. Trump for the most part sides with Netanyahu and Israel, but the president has routinely shown he will act unilaterally on policies he views are in his interest. Trump has signaled he wants to be able to take credit for establishing ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia, but Riyadhs red line is no normalization with Israel absent a Palestinian state. Last week, Trump dispatched his ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, to meet with Palestinian Authority Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh. Part of negotiations to end the war between Israel and Hamas is finding an alternative governing body for the strip. While the Palestinian Authority is present in the strip, it is not viewed as the most credible actor or strongest political body to exercise control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And negotiations for a ceasefire to the war have stalled. The latest conflict began when Hamas launched a terrorist attack against Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. The death toll in Gaza during the conflict is around 60,000 people, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which doesnt distinguish between militants and civilians The Trump administration has put the blame on Hamas as being a barrier to peace, but international outrage over Israels demolition of the Gaza Strip and the humanitarian crisis wrought on the Palestinians has isolated Jerusalem. Last week, French President Emanuel Macron announced that Paris would recognize a Palestinian state, a largely symbolic move but one that likely triggered alarm in Jerusalem over whether other major industrialized nations would follow suit and grant recognition of Palestinian statehood. Trump on Monday signaled a break with Netanyahu when he acknowledged there was real starvation happening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the weekend, Israel announced it would open up additional humanitarian corridors to provide aide in Gaza, pause fighting to allow for distribution and carry out aid drops. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Donald Trumps Department of Health and Human Services will recommend a ban on concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine products, officials announced Tuesday. Popular at gas stations and smoke shops around Tampa Bay, 7-hydroxymitragynine, also known as 7OH products, contain artificially high amounts of a potent compound found in the kratom plant. On Tuesday, at a news conference in Washington, health officials at the highest levels of American government sounded the alarm over the products, saying they have the potential to cause a new addiction crisis. What were determined to do is avert a fourth wave of addiction, said U.S. Health and Human Services Sec. Robert Kennedy Jr., comparing the addictive potential of 7OH to heroin, crack cocaine and opioid pills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government will recommend that 7OH be included on the federal Schedule 1 list of drugs, which is reserved for substances that show a high potential for abuse. Kratom contains many chemical compounds, known as alkaloids, and 7-hydroxymitragynine is the one that most worries researchers. In recent years, companies have begun selling tablets and pills that isolate the chemical, delivering it in much larger and stronger quantities than exist in nature. Experts who study kratom have issued dire warnings about the products for years. In 2023, Abhisheak Sharma, a leading kratom researcher at the University of Florida, likened one offering to legal morphine. Christopher McCurdy, another leading kratom researcher at UF, wrote in an email that he applauded federal officials for getting unproven products off of store shelves. However, he noted that moving 7OH to Schedule 1 will make it more difficult to research any potential medical benefits the substance may have. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Manufacturers of the products say theyre a valuable tool for staving off addiction to more serious substances. But scientists say such claims are unproven at best. When asked about the death toll related to 7OH at the news conference, Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary said the federal government lacks the data to know the scale of the problem. We need better statistics, Makary said. This is not something where, after 50,000 Americans have died from it, we want to start that process. Florida lawmakers weighed a ban on the products during the 2025 legislative session, but the bill ultimately died amid lobbying by the 7OH industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal officials distinguished between 7OH and traditional kratom products in their announcement, saying that the safety concerns raised by the former far outweigh the latter. Kratom itself is typically sold as a dusty green psychoactive powder and comes from the leaves of a Southeast Asian tree. A Tampa Bay Times investigation from 2023 found that hundreds of people in Florida died from kratom-related overdoses even as the industry touted its products as safe. Shenna Bellows waits outside the Maine House of Representatives chamber before legislators elected her to serve another term as Secretary of State. (Photo by Jim Neuger/Maine Morning Star) The U.S. Department of Justice asked Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows to provide access to the states voter registration list and other sweeping election data. Bellows told Maine Morning Star she will respond in the next few days by telling the DOJ that it does not have the right to such information. The federal government has overstepped its bounds, Bellows said. We will be denying their request for the citizen voter information of every Mainer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bellows said, according to the National Association of Secretaries of State, the DOJ is asking for voter information from all 50 states. Maine Morning Stars partner outlets have been following these probes in at least nine other states so far. Why on Earth does the Department of Justice need the voter information from all 50 states? Bellows said. If Congress thought it was appropriate that there be a national voter file, Congress could have authorized the Department of Justice to do that, but they have not. The latest request in Maine follows a less expansive inquiry earlier this month. In a July 10 email, Scott Laragy, principal deputy director in the Executive Office for United States Attorneys, requested a phone call with Bellows to discuss a potential information-sharing agreement to provide the DOJ with information on registered voters in Maine who are ineligible to vote or may otherwise have engaged in unlawful conduct relevant to the election process. The Department of the Secretary of State sent a response acknowledging receipt of the email that same day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, on July 24, the Civil Rights Division of the DOJ sent a vastly more detailed request for specific data, including the statewide voter registration list, names of officials who handle the lists maintenance and the number of ineligible voters the state identified due to noncitizenship, among other information about the states election processes. We dont know why theyre doing this, whether it is to change the subject away from topics like the Epstein files, or whether it is to undermine voter confidence in our strong election systems, said Bellows, a Democrat who is running for governor in 2026. But it doesnt matter why, she said, it violates the U.S. Constitution, which puts states in charge of elections. The DOJ declined to answer Maine Morning Stars requests for comment on the emails regarding why the administration is seeking the information and how it intends to use it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DOJLetter During Trumps first term, Bellows predecessor Matt Dunlap denied Trumps voter fraud commission access to the state voter file, which Bellows said was the correct move. Dunlap served on the panel and after it was disbanded said it was set up to validate Trumps voter fraud claims. He did not respond to requests for comment for this story. The secretary of state at the time of the state of Mississippi, Delbert Hosemann [a Republican], told the DOJ to go jump in the Gulf of Mexico, Bellows added. My answer to the DOJ is, Go jump in the Gulf of Maine. The request While Bellows intends to tell the DOJ they have no right to the information, it is due within 14 days of receipt, according to the letter which came from the divisions Deputy Assistant Attorney General Michael Gates and Acting Chief of the Voting Section Maureen Riordan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The requests are for data specifically from November 2022 through the receipt of the letter. One of the demands is the number of registered voters identified as ineligible to vote in Maine for that time period specifically because of the following reasons: non-citizen, adjudicated incompetent, and felony conviction. Maine is one of two states that have no restrictions on eligibility to vote based on criminal convictions. For each of these categories, the DOJ also requested the individuals registration information on the statewide voter registration list, including their vote history. The requests in other states have ranged in scope. Other states received information-sharing agreement inquiries, including nearby Rhode Island. Meanwhile, at least nine states have received requests from the DOJ for more detailed voter information like the latest in Maine, such as turning over full voter registration lists and each states process for flagging noncitizen applicants. These nine states include Alaska, Arizona, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Colorado the latter being the most sweeping publicly known request. The DOJ is demanding Colorado turn over all records related to the 2024 election, a massive trove of documents that could include ballots and even voting equipment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These requests have raised fears about how the Trump administration plans to use the information. Jen Lancaster, communications director for Democracy Maine, a collaboration between nonpartisan organizations working to make government more equitable by improving elections, protecting and engaging voters, described the probes as a nefarious data grab that is likely intended to target groups that have already been subject to other data probes by the Trump administration, such as immigrants. We hope that our election officials, if it came down to being pushed to share that sensitive data, we would hope that they resist that, Lancaster said. The latest request of Maine cites state data provided for the election administration and voting survey conducted by the Election Assistance Commission, an independent agency of the U.S. government created by Congress in 2002 to aid the states in conducting safe and secure elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, the letter noted that Maines survey response showed that there were nearly as many registered voters listed as active as the citizen voting age population in Maine in 2024, with a registration rate of 92.4%. The letter went on to request further details about the states response, such as information about the actions Maine is taking to ensure that ineligible voters are being removed and a list of all duplicate registrants the state has removed. Again, the Trump administration and the DOJ are blurring the lines and overstepping their bounds, Bellows said in response to these asks. We are proud of our high voter registration rates. I work hard on school campuses, in community outreach events, to promote voter registration. Bellows added, The nature of these questions suggest that the DOJ is more interested in keeping people that they dont like from voting than promoting voter registration and participation. The DOJ requests for Maine voter data come after the state GOP accused multiple Maine citizens of voting twice in the same election, claims that Bellows determined to be false earlier this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state party, along with the help of the Republican National Committee, found more than 600 voters who registered to vote twice and more than 50 who voted twice in the same election, using a state voter file provided by the Secretary of State, according to details shared in a June 26 Facebook post. According to Bellows office, of the 51 names in question, 11 were different people with the same name and another 19 were erroneously recorded by their local municipality as having voted twice but in fact had not. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE By Sarah N. Lynch WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Donald Trump's administration has extended Nevada's Interim U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah's term, aiming to prevent a federal court from rejecting her permanent appointment amid mounting opposition from critics including more than 100 retired federal and state judges, a Justice Department official said. Chattah, an Israel-born former Republican National Committeewoman, has been serving in the interim role since April. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 120-day deadline for her term is set to expire on Tuesday, which would open the door for the federal court in Nevada to appoint a U.S. Attorney since Trump has yet to nominate anyone for the role. The Justice Department is also naming Bill Essayli as the acting U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, which includes Los Angeles, the official said. The move will allow Essayli, whose 120-day interim term was set to expire on Wednesday, to continue in the role for another 210 days. Essayli, a former Republican in the California State Assembly, has also aligned himself closely with Trump. The department designated Chattah Acting U.S. Attorney for Nevada under the federal Vacancies Reform Act, the department official said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chattah announced her new role on X on Tuesday, adding "Rinse and repeat: The law is the ONLY thing that makes ALL people equal." Federal courts have so far rejected two of Trump's other U.S. Attorney picks: John Sarcone in the Northern District of New York and Trump's former personal lawyer Alina Habba in New Jersey. In both of those cases, the Justice Department used a variety of different legal maneuvers to keep them in place. In Habba's case, Attorney General Pam Bondi thwarted the federal court by removing Desiree Grace, Habba's first assistant whom the courts had chosen to serve as the state's top federal prosecutor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The maneuver in New Jersey has injected some uncertainty into federal criminal cases there, and defendants in at least one case have asked that their charges be dismissed based on an argument that Habba's appointment was unlawful. More than 100 retired federal and state judges this week urged the federal court in Nevada not to permanently appoint Chattah, citing her history of racially charged comments and her "extreme partisan bias," according to a letter seen by Reuters. "Chattah has frequently used violence-tinged language suggesting that her political opponent should be hanging from a crane, that protesters should be shot, and that people should 'buy ammo' in response to their grievances," wrote the 116 retired judges in a Monday letter to Andrew Gordon, the chief federal judge in Nevada. The letter listed examples including Chattah referring to former Democratic U.S. Representative Jamaal Bowman as an "antisemitic ghetto rat" and calling Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis "so ghetto" and asking: "Why do we have lawyers like this who litigate in Ebonics?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also previously suggested that certain Democratic Jewish members of the U.S. Congress are equivalent to modern-day Nazi collaborators. A Justice Department official did not have any immediate comment about the letter criticizing Chattah. (Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch; Additional reporting by Andrew Goudsward; Editing by Sandra Maler) In 2025, viral social media posts reignited claims that U.S. President Donald Trump boasted about walking in on beauty pageant contestants while they were naked in their changing rooms. Some posts claimed that he had boasted specifically about entering changing rooms of Miss Teen USA contestants, many of whom were underage. Numerous posts pointed out that Trump owned a number of beauty pageants, including Miss USA, Miss Universe and Miss Teen USA, but did not specify which pageant contestant rooms he supposedly bragged about entering. Several posts claimed to quote Trump telling radio host Howard Stern on "The Howard Stern Show" that he walked in on Miss Teen USA contestants who were around 14 to 16 years old at the time: "I'll go backstage before a Miss Teen USA show and everyone's getting dressed and ready and everything and no men are anywhere. And I'm allowed to go in because I'm the owner of the pageant [...]." (Instagram user "silverfox_vibes") We looked closely at Trump's past comments, as well as real allegations made by former beauty pageant contestants from both Miss USA and Miss Teen USA competitions. Trump did indeed brag about walking in on contestants, but was referring to Miss USA or Miss Universe pageants, whose contestants are 18 or older. The above quote where he appeared to brag about walking in on Miss Teen USA contestants was misrepresenting a real comment he made to Stern. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That said, there have been numerous serious allegations about Trump from both Miss USA and Miss Teen USA contestants, reporting that decades ago, he walked into their dressing rooms while they were partially naked (which Trump's spokesperson denied in 2016). We cannot prove or disprove their exact accounts, and while Trump did not admit to walking in on underage contestants, he certainly admitted to Stern his inappropriate behavior during other pageants. What Exactly Did Trump Say to Stern? From 1995 to 2015, Trump co-owned the Miss Universe Organization, which included Miss USA and Miss Teen USA pageants. CNN in 2016 reviewed clips of his numerous conversations with Stern and said they depicted Trump as being frequently demeaning to women. CNN published sections of the audio clips as well, and the quote in question can be heard at the 1:40 mark: In an April 2005 episode, Stern asked Trump if he ever had sex with Miss USA or Miss Universe contestants, according to CNN's report, to which Trump said, "I never comment on things like that." They continued to chat for a few minutes, when co-host Robin Quivers asked Trump if he thought sleeping with contestants was a conflict of interest. Trump said, "It could be a conflict of interest. But, you know, it's the kind of thing you worry about later, you tend to think about the conflict a little bit later on." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stern then put on a fake foreign accentreferring to international contestants in the Miss Universe pageant and said, "Some of these foreign girls" say hello in their country "with vagina." Trump then said, "Well, what you could also say is that, as the owner of the pageant, it's your obligation to do that." He then described how he got away with going backstage while the contestants were naked: Well, I'll tell you the funniest is that before a show, I'll go backstage and everyone's getting dressed, and everything else, and you know, no men are anywhere, and I'm allowed to go in because I'm the owner of the pageant and therefore I'm inspecting it. You know, I'm inspecting because I want to make sure that everything is good. [...] You know, the dresses. 'Is everyone okay?' You know, they're standing there with no clothes. 'Is everybody okay?' And you see these incredible looking women, and so, I sort of get away with things like that. But no, I've been very good. According to Miss USA and Miss Universe websites, contestants have to be adult women over the age of 18. In the above conversation with Stern, Trump was referring to those contests. He did not reference Miss Teen USA in his comments, indicating that the above X post edited his actual words. Did Trump Walk in on Partially Dressed Contestants? Trump, in his own words from 2005, admitted to doing so with regard to some of the pageants (referring to either Miss USA or Miss Universe). However, his representatives would deny years later that he ever behaved that way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But some former Miss Teen USA pageant contestants have accused him of walking into their changing room. In a 2016 Buzzfeed News investigation, nearly half a dozen former contestants of Miss Teen USA claimed that Trump walked in on them changing some of the girls in those rooms were reportedly 15 years old when it happened. One incident reportedly occurred in the 1997 Miss Teen USA beauty pageant. Mariah Billado, the former Miss Vermont Teen USA, recalled, "I remember putting on my dress really quick because I was like, 'Oh my god, there's a man in here'." She then remembered Trump saying, "Don't worry, ladies, I've seen it all before." Four other women also alleged that Trump entered the dressing room; eleven contestants that Buzzfeed reached said they did not recall him in the dressing room. In 2016, a former Miss USA contestant, who was 18 years old at the time, said that Trump walked into their changing room: "Our first introduction to him was when we were at the dress rehearsal and half naked changing into our bikinis. He just came strolling right in. There was no second to put a robe on or any sort of clothing or anything. Some girls were topless. Other girls were naked." She said they were told to greet him while in an awkward position where "the owner [came] waltzing in when we were naked or half naked in a very physically vulnerable position and then to have the pressure of the people that worked for him telling us to go fawn all over him, go walk up to him, talk to him, get his attention." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to media in October 2016, in the midst of his first presidential campaign, Trump's spokesperson denied all the allegations from the former contestants: "These accusations have no merit and have already been disproven by many other individuals who were present. When you see questionable attacks like this magically put out there in the final month of a presidential campaign, you have to ask yourself what the political motivations are and why the media is pushing it." In Summary It is clear that Trump himself boasted about entering contestant dressing rooms, but he made those comments during a discussion about Miss USA and Miss Universe, not Miss Teen USA. However, real allegations from former contestants of both Miss Teen USA and Miss USA bolstered claims that Trump behaved inappropriately. However, given that the events occurred decades ago, and we only have the contradicting accounts from Trump himself, as well as his accusers' statements, we are unable to definitively say ourselves whether or not he actually entered the dressing rooms. Sources: "Apply." Miss USA. 24 June 2022, https://themissusa.com/apply/. Accessed 25 March 2024. Barbash, Fred. "Former Miss Arizona: Trump 'Just Came Strolling Right in' on Naked Contestants." Washington Post, 25 Oct. 2021. www.washingtonpost.com, https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2016/10/12/former-miss-arizona-trump-just-came-strolling-right-in-on-naked-contestants/. Accessed 25 March 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Former Beauty Queen: Contestants Were Forced To Greet Trump Even When Not Fully Dressed." CBS Los Angeles. 11 Oct. 2016, https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/former-beauty-queen-she-other-contestants-were-forced-to-greet-trump-even-when-not-fully-dressed/. Accessed 25 March 2024. McDermott, Nate and Andrew Kaczynski, Chris Massie. "Donald Trump to Howard Stern: It's Okay to Call My Daughter a 'Piece of Ass' | CNN Politics." CNN, 8 Oct. 2016, https://www.cnn.com/2016/10/08/politics/trump-on-howard-stern/index.html. Accessed 25 March 2024. Toobin, Jeffrey. "Trump's Miss Universe Gambit." The New Yorker, 19 Feb. 2018. www.newyorker.com, https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2018/02/26/trumps-miss-universe-gambit. Accessed 25 March 2024. Testa, Jessica and Kendall Taggart, Jessica Garrison. "Teen Beauty Queens Say Trump Walked In On Them Changing." BuzzFeed News, 13 Oct. 2016, https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/kendalltaggart/teen-beauty-queens-say-trump-walked-in-on-them-changing. Accessed 25 March 2024. "VOTING RULES." Miss Universe, https://www.missuniverse.com/copy-of-apply. Accessed 25 March 2024. Washington, DC United States Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, a right-wing ally of US President Donald Trump, has suggested that Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, highlighting a growing schism in the Republican Party. In a social media post this week, Greene condemned the dire situation in Gaza, where an Israeli-imposed hunger crisis has killed more than 120 people. She also criticised her colleague Randy Fine, who has openly celebrated the starvation and bombardment of Palestinians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the most truthful and easiest thing to say that Oct 7th in Israel was horrific and all hostages must be returned, but so is the genocide, humanitarian crisis, and starvation happening in Gaza, Greene wrote. Her words echo assessments from leading human rights groups and United Nations experts, describing Israels actions in Gaza as consistent with genocide. Genocide defined by the United Nations as acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group is seen as one of the gravest war crimes. So far, the Israeli military has killed more than 60,000 people and turned most of Gaza into rubble. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But only a handful of US lawmakers have accused Israel of genocide, making Greenes comments all the more remarkable. In the US, the legislators most vocal against Israels war in Gaza have largely represented the political left. Greene, however, is one of the most prominent faces of Trumps right-wing Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement. Still, there has been increasing international pressure to denounce the Israeli blockade on Gaza, which has limited the entry of basic supplies into the territory. In recent days, images of emaciated Palestinian children and evidence of mass hunger in Gaza have sharpened the criticism against Israel in US politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Congressman John Garamendi, a Democrat, also suggested that Israels policies amount to genocide. Its impossible to look at the starvation caused by Israels dangerous and willful failure to enable humanitarian aid and not see a genocide being committed against the people of Palestine, said Garamendi. The US provides Israel with billions of dollars in military aid, as well as diplomatic backing at international forums. The Trump administration has nevertheless been reluctant to criticise Israel over its atrocities and blockade in Gaza. Amid that anger, Fine another Trump ally sparked outrage last week when he appeared to endorse Israels starvation campaign in Gaza while also dismissing it as Muslim terror propaganda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Release the hostages, he wrote in a social media post earlier this week. Until then, starve away. Fine, who was elected to Congress earlier this year with the endorsement of Trump and the support of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), has a history of Islamophobic and anti-Palestinian positions. For example, in 2021, when a commenter sent Fine a photo of a dead Palestinian child and asked him how he sleeps at night, Fine offered a glib response: Quite well, actually! Thanks for the pic! In September of last year, he also appeared to praise the killing of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a US activist who was fatally shot by the Israeli military in the occupied West Bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throw rocks, get shot. One less #MuslimTerror ist. #FireAway, Fine wrote in a social media post at the time. Earlier in July, top Democrats in the House of Representatives called Fine unhinged, racist and Islamophobic over a social media attack on Muslim American Congresswoman Ilhan Omar. Fine had responded to Omars criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus visit to Washington, DC, by saying: Im sure it is difficult to see us welcome the killer of so many of your fellow Muslim terrorists. But the Republican congressmans recent comments on the starvation in Gaza appear to have gone too far, even for some of Israels staunchest supporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The American Jewish Committee (AJC), a pro-Israel advocacy group, slammed Fines remarks last week. Implying that starvation is a legitimate tactic is unacceptable, AJC wrote in response to Fines post. All those in need of humanitarian aid should receive it promptly and safely. Our leaders must focus less on scoring political points and more on doing their jobs. For her part, Greene warned that Fines awful statement will actually cause more anti-Semitism. President Donald Trumps approval rating has dropped one percentage point, to 40 percent, the lowest yet of his second presidential term, according to a fresh poll. The new Reuters/Ipsos poll, which was completed on Monday and surveyed 1,023 American adults, showed the nation continues to be sharply split on Trump's performance since his inauguration. Around 83 percent of Republicans only three percent of Democrats approved of his performance, with only a third of independents approving of his actions. It's not all bad for Trump; 38 percent of respondents approved of his handling of the economy, up from 35 percent in mid-July. Another 43 percent approved of his immigration policies, compared to only 41 percent a few weeks ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But elsewhere, Trump is taking hits, including among one of his core voter demographics: men. According to a poll by CBS/YouGov released last week, Trump's approval rating is tanking with men during his second term. It found 47 percent of men approve of the job Trump is doing, while 53 percent do not. A new Reuters/Ipsos poll found President Donald Trumps approval rating has fallen to 40 percent, the lowest that poll has recorded since the start of his presidency (AP) In October just before Trump's second electoral victory a similar CBS/YouGov poll found that 54 percent of men supported Trump and 64 percent said they thought he would be a strong leader. The drop overall reflects a broader disapproval with Trump's second term; DecisionDeskHQ's polling averages show the president's overall approval rating was down by about 12 points since January, a drop from 56 percent to 44 percent this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the new CBS/YouGov poll, 47 percent of men said Trump was focusing "too much" on deportations, while 33 percent said he was showing the "right amount" of focus. In another metric, 65 percent of men said Trump has not done enough to lower prices, and only 29 percent said they felt he had. Another poll, administered by Gallup last week, put Trump's approval rating at 37 percent the lowest he's been for that specific poll. The three key issues driving down Trump's approval rating were the major issues that attracted men to Trump in the first place, according to the poll. That could spell trouble for Republicans come the midterm elections if they do not adjust their focus and messaging before the election. Trump's dipping approval ratings comes at a difficult time for Republicans, as some stalwart supporters among his voter base and within his party are questioning the president, over his handling of the so-called "Epstein files." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president promised to be transparent about what the government knew of disgraced New York financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein a man who had a long and well-documented prior friendship with Trump. After U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced she had the so-called Epstein client list on her desk, the administration backtracked and insisted no such file existed. It also confirmed previous rulings that Epstein died by suicide in his New York jail cell while awaiting trial for child sex trafficking. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Spikes represent activity of neurons during working memory maintenance. Credit: Paluch et al. Understanding how the human brain stores information and later uses it to complete various tasks has been a long-standing goal of neuroscience and psychology research. Past studies have identified different types of memory processes that have distinct roles and characteristics. One of these, known as working memory, entails the storage and manipulation of important information for short periods of time, particularly information that is helpful for completing reasoning tasks or to make decisions in the short-term. Findings suggest that this temporary storage of information is associated with the continued and persistent firing of specific neurons in the brain. Most past studies focusing on working memory processes relied on experimental tasks that require participants to prioritize and memorize all items they are presented with. In contrast, very few have tried to understand how the human brain stores "unattended" items, or, in other words, stimuli that are momentarily not in focus and not immediately relevant for completing a task at hand. Researchers at the Polish Academy of Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Military Hospital in Ek and Wroclaw Medical University set out to test the validity of a theoretical model suggesting the existence of an "activity-silent" mechanism that is responsible for storing unattended memories. Their findings, published in Nature Human Behaviour, disprove this theoretical prediction, instead showing that the brain's storage of unattended memories is also associated with the firing of neurons. "We know that items in our working memoryour thoughtsare represented by the activity of specialized neurons," Jan Kaminski, senior author of the paper, told Medical Xpress. "Whenever we need to maintain something in mind, specific neurons in our brain increase their firing rates. For instance, when memorizing a phone number, certain neurons temporarily become more active as they encode this information. "Recent studies, however, have suggested that if a memory item is not actively attended to, the activity of these neurons drops back to baseline. For example, when we must remember a phone number but temporarily perform a different task." Recent experimental evidence hinted at the possibility that unattended items are maintained in the brain via an activity-silent mechanism that is markedly different from the one supporting the storage of important information during working memory tasks. Nonetheless, most of this evidence was collected using non-invasive imaging techniques, such as electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Although EEG and fMRI are widely used to conduct neuroscience research, they both record the "average" activity of hundreds of thousands of neurons in the human brain. As a result, studies relying on these imaging techniques might have failed to pick up the activity of a few neurons, as it was averaged with the inactivity of several other neurons. The average firing rate of cells coding information in working memory. The inset shows the firing rate reduced to three dimensions, indicating that items outside of attention differ not only from the no-memory condition but also from the in-focus attention condition. Credit: Paluch et al. "Our lab specializes in directly recording neural activity during invasive clinical procedures, such as electrode implantation in the human brain for epilepsy monitoring," said Kaminski. "This provides a unique opportunity to test the activity-silent hypothesis directly. As part of this study, we recorded from neurons in the temporal lobe known to be involved in working memory." The participants who took part in the team's study were shown two images and asked to remember both images but focus on only one of them for the first part of the trial. Subsequently, they were either instructed to keep their attention on the same image or to shift their focus to the image that was previously unattended. "This experimental design, known as the double retro-cue paradigm, has been employed in prior research," explained Katarzyna Paluch, first author of the paper. "To record brain activity, we used an invasive clinical procedure called intracranial EEG, where electrodes are surgically placed directly into patients' brains for medical purposes, like epilepsy monitoring. This allowed us to record the activity of individual neurons." Kaminski and his colleagues later examined the activity of neurons in the temporal lobe when participants shifted their attention to one or the other image. This allowed them to better understand how unattended images were stored in the brain. "To our surprise, we found that even the image outside the focus of attention was still actively represented by neuronal firing," said Kaminski. "This contradicts the activity-silent hypothesis and indicates that unattended items in working memory remain actively represented. Our findings suggest that a larger portion of our working memorythe mental workspace or 'mind's sketchpad'is actively represented by neuronal activity." The findings of this study suggest that thoughts and other information that is outside a person's immediate focus of attention is still represented by some neurons that remain active. In other words, the storage of this unattended information does not rely on activity-silent mechanisms, as some earlier works had suggested. In addition to improving the present understanding of human memory processes, the results gathered by Kaminski and his colleagues could inform the future treatment of some psychiatric disorders that are sometimes accompanied by working memory deficits. These include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia. "For example, our findings raise the possibility of developing neural implants or electrical stimulators to help maintain specific information in working memory, expanding the scope of therapeutic interventions," added Kaminski. "Our lab is now continuing to focus on understanding working memory and its underlying neural mechanisms through direct recordings of neuronal activity in humans. "In our future studies, we plan to explore how the brain switches between protecting current contents of working memory and encoding new information, which is critical for flexible cognitive functioning." Written for you by our author Ingrid Fadelli, edited by Sadie Harley, and fact-checked and reviewed by Robert Eganthis article is the result of careful human work. We rely on readers like you to keep independent science journalism alive. If this reporting matters to you, please consider a donation (especially monthly). You'll get an ad-free account as a thank-you. More information: K. Paluch et al, Unattended working memory items are coded by persistent activity in human medial temporal lobe neurons, Nature Human Behaviour (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41562-025-02235-0. Journal information: Nature Human Behaviour 2025 Science X Network President Donald Trump voiced support for law enforcement agencies and said he has full faith in their ability to determine why a "crazed lunatic" opened fire in a Manhattan office tower on Monday that killed a New York City Police Department officer. "I have been briefed on the tragic shooting that took place in Manhattan, a place that I know and love," Trump said in a social media post on Tuesday. "I trust our Law Enforcement Agencies to get to the bottom of why this crazed lunatic committed such a senseless act of violence. My heart is with the families of the four people who were killed, including the NYPD Officer, who made the ultimate sacrifice. God Bless the New York Police Department, and God Bless New York!" Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., also weighed in on the shooting on the Senate floor on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "My city, the greatest city on earth, was shattered when a gunman took the lives of four innocent New Yorkers in cold blood just four blocks from my office in midtown Manhattan," Schumer said. "It's not just a tragedy. It's a rupture in the soul of our city, our beloved city," Schumer said. "And it requires that we mourn and honor all those we lost." Nyc Gunman Appeared To Have Grievance Against Nfl, Went To Wrong Elevator Bank In Deadly Rampage, Mayor Says Read On The Fox News App Authorities identified the gunman as Shane Tamura of Las Vegas, who died from a self-inflicted gun wound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A total of four other people were killed in the shooting, including New York Police Department Officer Didarul Islam, 36. Islam had been on the force for three-and-a-half years and is survived by his pregnant wife and two children. "He was doing the job that we asked him to do. He put himself in harms way. He made the ultimate sacrifice," Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said at a news conference on Monday. "He died as he lived. A hero." Nfl's Roger Goodell Praises Nypd Officer Who Was Killed In Nyc Shooting The ambulance carrying the body of Didarul Islam exits New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Hospital during the dignified transfer of the slain officer, who was shot and killed by a gunman on Monday evening, early Tuesday, July 29, 2025 in New York. New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced on Tuesday that flags across the city would be lowered to half-staff to honor Islam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As a mark of respect for the memory of NYPD Officer Didarul Islam who died in the line of duty and the multiple victims of the mass shooting in Midtown Manhattan at 345 Park Avenue yesterday, Ive ordered all flags on all city buildings and stationary flagstaffs throughout the five boroughs to be lowered to half-staff until further notice." "Officer Didarul Islam died as he lived, a hero and protector of New York City. We will never forget you," Adams wrote in another post on X. Active Shooter Report Prompts Massive Police Response In Midtown Manhattan Business District FDNY firefighters wheel a gurney across the street as police respond to a shooting incident in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York on July 28, 2025. Fox News Greg Norman and Christina Shaw contributed to this report. Original article source: Trump backs NYPD after gunman kills off-duty officer in Manhattan office tower shooting Trump border czar Tom Homan reacted to Fox News polling indicating that nearly half of respondents believe ICE deportation efforts are too aggressive and that more than half believe that only illegal immigrants convicted of crimes should be deported. "If there's any change in the polls on ICE enforcement, it's because they're being fed a false narrative by 95% of the media," Homan told "Fox & Friends" on Tuesday. "70% of the people we're arresting are criminals. Who are the other 30%? [They're] national security threats. We've arrested over 300 Iranian nationals. These are people who are a national security threat based on intelligence, based on other information. These are people we have to take off the street, that we have to deport." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fox News Poll: Support For Deportation Depends On Who Is Being Targeted White House border czar Tom Homan walks towards reporters outside the White House on May 05, 2025 in Washington, DC. Homan said the rest of that 30% includes those removed upon a judge's request after receiving due process. He further defended ICE operations by insisting that the agency's job is to deport those who align with certain criteria and to execute immigration laws enacted by Congress. Read On The Fox News App "The left will make it seem like we're out arresting innocent people, disappearing people, kidnapping people, but the facts are the facts. ICE is prioritizing public safety threats and national security threats, and the numbers prove it," he continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Border Czar Tom Homan's Message To Anti-ice Protesters: 'You Want Some? Come Get Some' The latest Fox News survey, released Monday, found that three in ten backed deporting all illegal immigrants, while six in ten supported only deporting those charged with crimes while allowing others to stay and apply for citizenship. One in 10 favored letting all illegal immigrants remain in the U.S. On the Trump administration's approach to deportation, 49% feel ICE has been too aggressive in its efforts to deport illegal immigrants, while a quarter (24%) say it has not been aggressive enough. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nearly three in ten say deportation efforts are about right (27%). Fox News' Victoria Balara contributed to this report. Original article source: Trump border czar defends ICE against false narrative as poll flags voters' deportation concerns President Donald Trump said Tuesday he did not discuss the possibility of recognizing a Palestinian state with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer hours after the British leader announced he might do so, adding that the U.S. has no view on the matter. The comments come just one day after Trump acknowledged there is real starvation in Gaza, breaking with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahus stance that that there is no starvation in the war-torn strip. Tuesday morning, Starmer joined French President Emmanuel Macron in vowing to recognize a Palestinian state ahead of Septembers United Nations General Assembly, in the absence of substantive steps to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza on the part of Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We never did discuss it. We have no view on that, Trump said of Starmers announcement on Air Force One on Tuesday. We are going to get a lot of money to the area so they get some food. The growing international condemnation of Israel from American allies follows a United Nations-backed report from the worlds leading authority on food crises, which warned that a worst-case scenario of famine is playing out in Gaza. Trump also pushed back on pressure to urge Israel to come to a long-term solution to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, telling reporters such a move would play to the interests of Hamas. You could make the case that you're rewarding people, that youre rewarding Hamas if you do that, he said Tuesday. I don't think they should be rewarded. I'm not in that camp, to be honest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration has since sought to downplay the rift between the two governments, with U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee saying Tuesday morning there is no break between the prime minister of Israel and the president. Trump said the U.S. contributed $60 million to an effort to set up food centers in Gaza and that the centers, which will be operated by the Israeli government, would be set up very soon. He added that the European Union would also be contributing to the effort to address the growing hunger crisis in Gaza. State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce told reporters Tuesday afternoon that the fighting in Gaza would have to cease before it would be appropriate to consider a future for a possible Palestinian state. Regardless of the conflict that has been worked on whether its Russia-Ukraine, the Gaza Strip or anywhere else you cant really begin to contemplate whats next until people stop killing each other, she said. We are still at that point. Because of Hamas recalcitrance and refusal to lay down its arms, refusal to release the hostages, were not at a point where were looking at what is next. NEED TO KNOW President Donald Trump claimed that Jeffrey Epstein "stole" employees from his Mar-a-Lago spa, including the late Virginia Giuffre Epstein died by suicide in prison in 2019 Giuffre died by suicide in her home after years of bringing forth allegations of sexual abuse against Epstein and Prince Andrew President Donald Trump said that Jeffrey Epstein "stole" Virginia Giuffre from his Mar-a-Lago spa in Florida while speaking to reporters on Tuesday, July 29. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump elaborated on previous comments he made over the weekend about falling out with Epstein because Epstein allegedly poached employees from his club. "He took people that worked for me. And I told him, 'Dont do it anymore.' And he did it," Trump said, telling reporters that he barred Epstein from Mar-a-Lago. Mark Kauzlarich/Bloomberg via Getty Virginia Roberts Giuffre at federal court in New York, U.S., on Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2019 Virginia Roberts Giuffre at federal court in New York, U.S., on Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2019 "I said, 'Stay the hell out of here,' " he recalled. Trump said many of them were young women who worked in the club's spa. "The answer is yes, they were in the spa," he said. "I told him, I said, 'Listen, we dont want you taking our people, whether it was spa or not spa.' ... And he was fine. And then not too long after that, he did it again." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked if Giuffre was one of these employees, the president said, "I think she worked at the spa... I think so. I think that was one of the people. He stole her, and by the way, she had no complaints about us, as you know, none whatsoever." https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Giuffre worked in the spa during the summer of 2000 and was recruited by Ghislaine Maxwell to work for Epstein, and alleged the pair groomed her and forced her to have sex with Epstein and others as part of an elaborate sex ring, from which she escaped in 2002. The late Giuffre had accused both Epstein and Prince Andrew of sexual abuse. Prince Andrew has denied the allegations. White House communications director Steven Cheung said in a statement last week that Trump booted Epstein from Mar-a-Lago "for being a creep. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Epstein, 66, was found hanging inside a jail cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York City on the morning of Aug. 10, 2019, where he was awaiting trial on federal conspiracy and sex trafficking charges. His death was ruled a suicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Giuffre died by suicide on April 25 at her home in the suburbs of Perth, Australia. She was 41. PEOPLE reached out to her attorney for comment. If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor. This is a breaking news story that will be updated. Read the original article on People Donald Trump claims that his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein ended after the pedophilic sex trafficker stole several of the presidents underage employees. Speaking with reporters on Air Force One Tuesday, Trump said that he had confronted Epstein about hiring away underage girls on his payroll at Mar-a-Lago. Epstein has a certain reputation obviously. Im just curious, were some of the workers that were taken from you, were some of them young women? asked one reporter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well, I dont want to say, but everyone knows the people that were taken, and the concept of taking people that work for me is bad. But that story has been pretty well out there, and the answer is yes, they were, Trump said. People were taken out of the spa. Hired, by him, in other wordsgone, Trump continued, referring to Epstein. Other people would come and complain, This guy is taking people from the spa. I didnt know that. And then when I heard about it, I told him, I said, Listen, we dont want you taking our people. Whether it was spa or not spa, I dont want him taking people. And he was fine, and then not too long after that he did it again and I said, Out of here, he added. Did one of the stolen personsdid that include Virginia Giuffre? asked another reporter, referring to one of Epsteins earliest and most prominent accusers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Um, I dont know. I think she worked at the spa, Trump said. I think so. I think that was one of the people. He stole her. And by the way, she had no complaints about us, as you know. None whatsoever. Trump: People were taken out of the spa, hired by Epstein I told him we dont want you taking our people, whether its spa or not spa. He did it again, I said out of here. Reporter: Was one of the stolen people Virginia Giuffre? Trump: I think so. He stole her. pic.twitter.com/sLoDdKNasn Acyn (@Acyn) July 29, 2025 The anecdote partially corroborates Giuffres account of being abducted in 2000 by Ghislaine Maxwell at Mar-a-Lago, where she worked at the time as a pool attendant. But Trump continued to maintain ties to Epstein for years after the alleged confrontation. In a 2002 New York magazine profile of Epstein, Trump said he had known Epstein for 15 years and referred to him as a terrific guy. It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side, Trump said at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It wasnt until 2004 that the longtime friends would fall out over a Palm Beach real estate deal. Giuffre committed suicide in April. Trump has previously claimed he cut off contact with Epstein after the financier was convicted in 2009 for soliciting underage prostitutes, referring to Epstein as a creep. But the pair of Manhattan socialites shared a long and apparently cozy history together. Prior to his death, Epstein described himself as one of Trumps closest friends. The duo were named and photographed together on several occassionsincluding at Trumps second wedding. Trump reportedly flew on Epsteins jets between Palm Beach and New York at least seven times, and the first time that Trump slept with his now-wife Melania was reportedly aboard Epsteins plane, nicknamed the Lolita Express. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, the former president and chief operating officer of Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, Jack ODonnell, revealed that he had caught Trump and Epstein in the late 1980s shepherding underage girls into the establishment. They were pretty good buddies, ODonnell told CNN, recalling that he warned Trump against spending more time with Epstein. This story has been updated. MONTREAL (AP) Throughout his new term, starting with his inaugural address, President Donald Trump has said he was saved by God to make America great again. In Canada, Prime Minister Mark Carney rarely evokes religion in public; his victory speech in April never used the word God. Canada forever. Vive le Canada, he ended. As Canada and the U.S. now skirmish over Trumps tariff threats and occasional bullying, the leaders rhetoric reflects a striking difference between their nations. Religion plays a far more subdued role in the public sphere in Canada than in its southern neighbor. Trump posed in front of a vandalized Episcopal parish house gripping a Bible. He invites pastors to the Oval Office to pray with him. His ally, House Speaker Mike Johnson, says the best way to understand his own world view is to read the Bible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Such high-level religion-themed displays would be unlikely and almost certainly unpopular in Canada, where Carney like his recent predecessors generally avoids public discussion of his faith. (He is a Catholic who supports abortion rights.) There are broader differences as well. The rate of regular church attendance in Canada is far lower than in the U.S. Evangelical Christians have nowhere near the political clout in Canada that they have south of the border. There is no major campaign in Canada to post the Ten Commandments in public schools or to enact sweeping abortion bans. Kevin Kee, a professor and former dean at the University of Ottawa, has written about the contrasting religious landscapes of the U.S. and Canada, exploring the rise of American evangelist Billy Graham to become a confidant of numerous U.S. presidents. Christianity, Kee said, has not permeated modern Canadian politics to that extent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have a political leadership that keeps its religion quiet, Kee said. To make that kind of declaration in Canada is to create an us/them situation. Theres no easy way to keep everybody happy, so people keep it quiet. A dramatic loss of Catholic power in Quebec The mostly French-speaking province of Quebec provides a distinctive example of Canadas tilt toward secularism. The Catholic Church was Quebecs dominant force through most of its history, with sweeping influence over schools, health care and politics. That changed dramatically in the so-called Quiet Revolution of the 1960s, when the provincial government took control of education and health care as part of a broader campaign to reduce the churchs power. The rate of regular church attendance among Quebec's Catholics plummeted from one of the highest in Canada to the one of the lowest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among religiously devout Canadians, in Quebec and other provinces, some are candid about feeling marginalized in a largely secular country. I feel isolated because our traditional Christian views are seen as old-fashioned or not moving with the times, said Megane Ares-Dube, 22, after she and her husband attended a service at a conservative Reformed Baptist church in Saint Jerome, about 30 miles (nearly 50 kilometers) north of Montreal. Contrary to the U.S., where Christians are more represented in elected officials, Christians are really not represented in Canada, she added. I pray that Canada wakes up. The churchs senior pastor, Pascal Denault, has mixed feelings about the Quiet Revolution's legacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For many aspects of it, that was good, he said. Before that, it was mainly the Catholic clergy that controlled many things in the province, so we didnt have religious freedom. Nonetheless, Denault wishes for a more positive public view of religion in Canada. Sometimes, secularism becomes a religion in itself, and it wants to shut up any religious speech in the public sphere, he said. What we hope for is that the government will recognize that religion is not an enemy to fight, but its more a positive force to encourage. Denault recently hosted a podcast episode focusing on Trump; he later shared some thoughts about the president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We tend to think that Trump is more using Christianity as a tool for his influence, rather than being a genuine Christian, he said. But Christians are, I think, appreciative of some of his stances on different things. Trumps religion-related tactics such as posing with the Bible in his hands wouldnt go over well with Canadians, Denault said. Theyd see that as something wrongful. The public servant should not identify with a specific religion, Denault said. I dont think most Canadians would vote for that type of politician. Repurposed church buildings abound in Montreal In the Montreal neighborhood of Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, the skyline is dotted with crosses atop steeples, but many of those churches are unused or repurposed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For decades, factory and port workers worshipped at Saint-Mathias-Apotre Church. Today its a restaurant that serves affordable meals daily for more than 600 residents. The manager of Le Chic Resto Pop, Marc-Andre Simard, grew up Catholic and now, like many of his staff, identifies as religiously unaffiliated. But he still tries to honor some core values of Catholicism at the nonprofit restaurant, which retains the churchs original wooden doors and even its confessional booths. Theres still space to be together, to have some sort of communion, but its around food, not around faith. Simard said during a lunch break, sitting near what used to be the altar of the former church. Simard says the extent to which the Catholic Church controlled so much of public life in Quebec should serve as a cautionary tale for the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We went through what the United States are going through right now, he said. Elsewhere in Montreal, a building that once housed a Catholic convent now often accommodates meetings of the Quebec Humanist Association. The groups co-founder, Michel Virard, said French Canadians know firsthand what it was to have a clergy nosing in their affairs. Now, Virard says, There is no excluding religious voice in Canada, merely attempts at excluding clergy from manipulating the state power levers and using taxpayers money to promote a particular religious viewpoint. History reveals why role of religion is so different in U.S. and Canada Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why are Canada and the U.S., two neighbors which share so many cultural traditions and priorities, so different regarding religion's role in public life? According to academics who have pondered that question, their history provides some answers. The United States, at independence from Britain, chose not to have a dominant, federally established church. In Canada, meanwhile, the Catholic Church was dominant in Quebec, and the Church of England eventually named the Anglican Church of Canada was powerful elsewhere. Professor Darren Dochuk, a Canadian who teaches history at University of Notre Dame in Indiana, says the disestablishment of religion in the U.S. made religious life all the more dynamic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a country in which free faith communities have been allowed to compete in the marketplace for their share, he said. In the 20th century, you had a plethora of religious groups across the spectrum who all competed voraciously for access to power, he said. More recently, the evangelicals are really dominating that. Religious conservatives are imposing their will on Washington. Theres been no equivalent faith-based surge in Canada, said Dochuk, suggesting that Canadas secularization produced precipitous decline in the power of religion as a major operator in politics. Carmen Celestini, professor of religious studies at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, said that even when Canadian politicians do opt for faith-based outreach, they often take a multicultural approach for example, visiting Sikh, Hindu and Jewish houses of worship, as well as Christian churches. Trumps talk about Canada becoming the 51st state fueled a greater sense of national unity among most Canadians, and undermined the relatively small portion of them who identify as Christian nationalists, Celestini said. Canada came together more as a nation, not sort of seeing differences with each other, but seeing each other as Canadians and being proud of our sovereignty and who we are as a nation, she said. The concern that Canadians have, when we look at whats happening in America, is that we dont want that to happen here. ___ Crary, who reported from New York, was the AP's Canada bureau chief from 1995-99. ___ Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content. President Donald Trumps administration has cut more than half of all federal funding for gun violence prevention programs, according to a new report. The Justice Department slashed 69 community violence intervention grants in April, ending more than $158 million in funding, Reuters reports. These grants were directed to several cities throughout the U.S., including Baltimore, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and Washington, D.C. The grants helped fund several programs that work to prevent gun violence. These included training outreach teams to de-escalate conflict, social workers to connect people with key services, and programs for hospitalized gun violence victims, Reuters reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These cuts are preventing some community organizations from doing the work in service of those that need it the most at the most urgent, and deadliest time of the year, Michael-Sean Spence, managing director of community safety initiatives at Everytown for Gun Safety, told Reuters Last year, the U.S. Surgeon General declared gun violence a public health crisis. The Justice Department building in Washington, D.C. The agency has cut more than half of all federal funding for gun violence prevention programs, a new report reveals (Getty Images) More than 44,000 people died from firearm-related injuries in the U.S. in 2024, according to new provisional CDC data reviewed by The Trace, a media outlet dedicated to reporting on gun violence. This is is down from 2023, during which more than 47,000 people died of gun-related injuries in the U.S. These community violence intervention grant cuts were part of a broader rollback. The Justice Departments Office of Justice Programs terminated a total of 365 grants in April, slashing more than $811 million in funding for public safety and victim justice programs, Reuters reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smaller cities in the southern U.S. have also been impacted by the cuts. Cities like Memphis and Baton Rouge were more reliant on these federal grants due to limited state support, according to Reuters. "Very few state legislatures are passing funding right now, that's why the federal cuts were such a tragic hit," Amber Goodwin, co-founder of Community Violence Legal Network, told Reuters. Eighteen law enforcement groups and police chiefs from Louisville, Minneapolis, Omaha and Tucson are also speaking out. The group has asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to reinstate funding that created measurable and significant reductions in violence and homicides, Reuters reports. "These aren't feel-good programs; theyre lifesaving, law-enforcement-enhancing strategies that work," the group wrote. Eighteen law enforcement groups and four police chiefs have written to Attorney General Pam Bondi asking her to reverse cuts to gun violence prevention funding (AFP via Getty Images) A Justice Department official told Reuters the grants were cut because they no longer effectuate the programs goals or agencys priorities. Thousands of grants at the office are under review, the official noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Independent has contacted the Justice Department for comment. More than half the reported gun homicides in the U.S. happened in just 42 cities, according to an analysis of 2023 data by Everytown for Gun Safety. The list includes all of the major U.S. cities which were impacted by the April funding cuts. New York saw yet another shooting on Monday, when a gunman targeted a Manhattan skyscraper. Shane Tamura, 27, stormed the office building at 345 Park Avenue shortly before 6:30 p.m., spraying the lobby with bullets from an AR-15-style rifle, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. Four people are dead, including a New York City Police Department officer and an executive at Blackstone. Chicago residents grieved earlier this month after a gunman carried out a mass shooting outside a nightclub, killing four people and injuring 14 more. A shooting in Washington, D.C. also made national headlines in June after a group of gunmen fatally shot Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a 21-year-old Congressional intern. Police said he was hit by a stray bullet and not the intended target. EXCLUSIVE - Republican Senate candidate and former Rep. Mike Rogers says President Donald Trump's endorsement gives him a "clear shot" as he aims to flip a Democrat-held seat in battleground Michigan in next year's midterm elections. The president's backing of Rogers last week came a day after GOP Rep. Bill Huizenga, who had been seriously mulling a Senate run in Michigan, announced that he would not launch a 2026 Senate campaign after consultations with Trump. Huizenga's announcement and Trump's ensuing endorsement helped clear the field for Rogers, who is making his second straight bid for the Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Its huge," Rogers said of Trump's endorsement. "It shows how far we've come in unifying the Republican Party here in Michigan." Republican Launches Second Straight Bid For Senate In Key Swing State Former Rep. Mike Rogers, who is making a second straight Republican bid for the Senate in battleground Michigan, was endorsed last week by President Donald Trump. Rogers (right) is seen with Trump on Oct. 3, 2024, at a campaign event in Saginaw, Michigan. And Rogers highlighted in an exclusive Fox News Digital interview that "clearing out any potential opponent in a primary allows us to continue to build on the momentum we have." Read On The Fox News App Rogers, who earlier this year was backed by Senate Majority Leader John Thune and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, pointed to "people jumping on board, wanting to be part of the team" since Trump's endorsement last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Having the Trump endorsement, that just kind of seals the deal. And it means we just get to work to win the election against Democrats in November of 26." Rogers is aiming to succeed retiring Democratic Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan, who announced earlier this year that he wouldnt seek re-election. Only On Fox News: Senate Republican Campaign Chair Reveals How Many Seats He's Aiming For In 2026 Rogers, a former FBI special agent who later served as chair of the House Intelligence Committee during his tenure in Congress, is making his second straight run for the Senate in Michigan. Rogers won the 2024 GOP Senate nomination in Michigan but narrowly lost to Rep. Elissa Slotkin, the Democrats' nominee, in last November's election in the race to succeed longtime Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow, who retired. Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan defeated Republican nominee former Rep. Mike Rogers by a razor-thin margin to win the battleground state's 2024 Senate election. Slotkin, who vastly outspent Rogers, edged him by roughly 19,000 votes, or a third of a percentage point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We've already seen some opening of checkbooks that maybe weren't willing to do that before," Rogers said of a boost in fundraising since he landed the president's backing last week. Why Pete Buttigieg Said No To Running For The Senate Next Year In Michigan "I think it's definitely going to help our fundraising, and it all feeds on itself, so we'll have better fundraising. Better fundraising means more support. More support means broader support. Broader support means we can continue to build out our team and what we have to do across the state," Rogers added. Former Rep. Mike Rogers of Michigan, seen campaigning in Kalamazoo County, Michigan on Oct. 3, 2024, is mounting a second straight Republican campaign for the Senate in the key Great Lakes battleground state. While Rogers appears to have the GOP field to himself, Democrats are facing a crowded and competitive primary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the announced candidates are Rep. Haley Stevens, state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, former state House Speaker Rep. Joe Tate, and Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, of Ann Arbor, a former Wayne County health director. "The Democrats are absolutely in a knife fight in the primary. They are a mess and fighting each other. They don't know which way they're going," Rogers argued. Trump narrowly carried Michigan in the 2024 presidential election after losing the state by a razor-thin margin four years earlier. But Republicans haven't won a Senate election in Michigan in over 30 years. You have to go back to former Sen. Spencer Abraham's 1994 victory. But Rogers said his early start this cycle, compared to his 2024 Senate run, as well as Trump's endorsement, could make the difference in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I wasn't even in the race this early last go round," Rogers said. "So to be in the race this early and get his [Trump's] endorsement just says we are serious about winning." "All good full steam ahead here," Rogers emphasized. Original article source: Trumps endorsement boosts Senate candidate who almost flipped a key swing seat The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is embracing a philosophy of climate change denial as it works to upend climate regulations and their legal underpinnings. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said last week that his agency will propose to repeal a 2009 determination known as the endangerment finding that declared that planet-warming gases including carbon dioxide are a threat to public health. The finding, whose proposed repeal is reportedly coming as soon as Tuesday, also declared that carbon emissions from vehicles were a contributor to the problem and served as a legal justification for climate regulations on industries such as automobiles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EPA has sent to the Office of Management and Budget a proposed rule to repeal the 2009 endangerment finding from the Obama EPA, Zeldin told Newsmax last week. He also praised carbon dioxide as necessary for life. You have many on the left who will say carbon dioxide is a pollutant and they wont talk about all of the many reasons why carbon dioxide is actually necessary for life here on our planet, he said. Robert Brulle, a visiting research professor at Brown University, told The Hill that the administrators actions and comments amount to climate denial. Is Lee Zeldin a climate denier? Yes, I would say, by my considered professional opinion, as a person who studies climate obstruction and climate denial yes, hes a full-fledged climate denier, Brulle said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He described assertions that greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide do not pose a danger as irrational and unscientific. Its almost as if the Catholic Church is just wishing away Galileo, he said, referring to the churchs pushback on Galileos conclusion that the Earth revolves around the sun. The science is there. You can see it. Its proven. Its fact. Brulle noted that assertions that carbon dioxide is good and needed for life on Earth have been used by climate deniers since the 1990s. Its an old staple of the climate denial movement, he said. They just keep running the same old tired arguments over and over and over again, hoping that people dont notice that what theyre saying is absolute bulls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hill has reached out to the EPA for further comment. While carbon dioxide is an important part of our ecosystem required by plants for their survival, human activities including the burning of fossil fuels and agriculture have led to an excess of carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, creating a greenhouse effect that is heating up the planet. If you increase carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, its going to change our climate, said Robert Howarth, a professor of ecology and environmental biology at Cornell University. The science is extremely well-developed, extremely well-settled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are lots of things which are essential for life, but when they become in excess, are damaging pollutants. Its not an either-or Howarth said. Yes, carbon dioxide is essential for photosynthesis. Weve known that for 200 years. And weve also known that if you put too much in the atmosphere, its going to change the climate, and weve known that for over 150 years, Howarth continued. Jonathan Overpeck, dean of the University of Michigans School for Environment and Sustainability, said its crazy to say that climate change isnt a problem. Were clearly getting climate extremes more frequently now. Theyre becoming more severe and in some cases longer duration, he said. When I say climate extremes, I mean extreme heat, heat waves, drought.Were seeing more extreme rainfall thats leading to flooding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All those things are happening. Theyre all supercharged by climate change caused by emissions of CO2 and other greenhouse gases, he added. President Trump has repeatedly denied climate change, infamously calling the phenomenon a hoax and downplaying impacts like rising sea levels. During his own confirmation hearing, Zeldin acknowledged climate changes existence saying, I believe that climate change is real. Asked if there was an urgency to address climate change, Zeldin said We must, with urgency, be addressing these issues. At the time, he was asked whether carbon dioxide was a pollutant and hedged his answer, saying, The EPA has been treating it as such. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he also foreshadowed the administrations anticipated takedown of the endangerment finding, declining to say he believed the EPA had an obligation to regulate climate change. The first Trump administration left the endangerment finding in place. It dramatically rolled back environmental regulations for vehicles and power plants, but it ultimately left some sort of regulation on the books, even if those regulations were significantly weaker than what had previously been in place. While he did not ultimately remove the endangerment finding, Scott Pruitt, who led the EPA during the first part of Trumps first term, has denied climate change, saying he did not believe carbon dioxide is a primary contributor to global warming. Now, however, it appears to be trying to get rid of regulations altogether, including with its anticipated revocation of the endangerment finding. It also proposed to get rid of all climate regulations for power plants in June, saying in a draft rule that power plant emissions do not contribute significantly to dangerous air pollution and therefore should not be regulated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joe Goffman, who led the EPAs Office of Air and Radiation, which deals with issues including climate change, under the Biden administration, described the Trump administrations approach as nihilistic. It almost doesnt matter what the cause of death is, whether this is climate denial, as we have come to understand it, or its innovative torturing of the legal authority that the agency has. The result is the same, Goffman told The Hill. Goffman said that getting rid of regulations altogether is likely to be worse for the climate than simply weakening them. Theyre removing their own authority to regulate tailpipe emissions at all, he said. This is this really is a pure all-or-nothing proposition, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overpeck added that cutting U.S. emissions is important to tackle the global phenomenon. Emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses really [do] matter. Were the number two emitter of carbon dioxide behind China, he said. To say the United States is not a major contributor to climate change is just crazy talk. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Trump administrations U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposed on Tuesday revoking a science-based determination that pollution fueling climate change harms public health. The so-called endangerment finding has for 16 years underpinned federal regulations for vehicles, power plants and other sources under the Clean Air Act. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced the proposed rule change on a podcast ahead of an official announcement in Indiana, according to The Associated Press. The reversal was one of 31 environmental rules that Zeldin said in March the agency would roll back or repeal to usher in the Golden Age of American success. But critics say the Tuesday decision flies in the face of scientific evidence, especially as climate change accelerates and manifests itself through extreme heat, toxic algae blooms, intense tornadoes and other threats to the Great Lakes and beyond in California wildfires, Florida hurricanes and Texas floods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here in the Midwest, were seeing the consequences of a warming world, said Howard Learner, executive director of Chicago-based Environmental Law and Policy Center. The last thing we need is for the Trump administration to tie the EPAs hands behind its back in this unlawful way thats not grounded on prevailing legal standards, scientific reality or common sense. The proposal follows an executive order from President Donald Trump that directed the agency to submit a report on the legality and continuing applicability of the endangerment finding. The 2009 finding had established that carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons and sulfur hexafluoride heat-trapping gases released into the atmosphere by human activity directly or indirectly threaten human welfare, specifically by driving climate change and extreme weather. Its what it does in terms of the atmospheric impacts that contribute to public health harms, Learner said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, health issues related to climate change include respiratory and cardiovascular disease, injuries and premature deaths from extreme weather events, changes in the prevalence and distribution of food- and water-borne illnesses and other infectious diseases, as well as threats to mental health. For instance, heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths. The flash floods in Texas earlier this month killed at least 138 people. The EPA draft rule would be released jointly with a reversal of Biden-era limits on tailpipe emissions that were designed to encourage automakers to build and sell more electric vehicles, according to the AP. The transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gases in the country, accounting for almost a third of emissions. The legal center will challenge what Learner called a misguided action from the Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will engage before the EPA and its regulatory process and then go to court if, unfortunately, necessary, he said. Hopefully, the EPA will withdraw its proposal before its reversed by the courts on appeal, creating uncertainty in the meantime. If the decision is challenged in court, as it likely will be, the legal back-and-forth could leave industry in a state of limbo and harm the economy in the process. This is not the first time the endangerment finding has been disputed, though this time, that challenge is coming from within. By 2022, the EPA had denied 14 petitions for reconsideration received between 2009 and 2019. And, after a series of lawsuits, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit upheld the determination in favor of the EPA in 2012. The EPAs new proposal comes less than a week after the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands, the United Nations top court, ruled that a clean environment is a human right. The landmark decision also said countries are legally obligated to curb emissions of greenhouse gases to curb climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, when people say, Well, thats the International Court of Justice. Whats that got to do with Illinois? Illinois, in our own state constitution Article 11 provides a right to a healthy environment, Learner said. The document reads: Each person has the right to a healthful environment. The article also says the state and its people have a duty to provide and maintain a healthful environment for the benefit of this and future generations. States like Illinois need to step up while the federal government is sadly stepping back, Learner said. In June, however, the Illinois General Assembly adjourned without passing the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act, which would have expanded energy efficiency and encouraged renewable energy projects in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Illinois has other opportunities to tighten climate regulations at the state level. The General Assembly could pass the act in its fall veto session. And earlier this year, the Illinois Pollution Control Board was considering switching to stricter California-style limits on truck emissions, which a Northwestern University study found would prevent 500 deaths per year in the greater Chicago region by 2050. The Clean Trucks rule would require that manufacturers of medium- and heavy-duty trucks slowly sell an increasing percentage of zero-emission vehicles by 2035. Proponents have argued that the rule would be stronger than the otherwise-applicable federal vehicle emission standards, according to a July 2024 board order accepting the proposal for hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Possible hostility from the Trump administration, however, might dampen political will in Illinois and other states to move forward with proposed legislation similar to Californias clean-air truck and car rules, which the president has targeted and blocked. While a state can tighten regulations for industrial sources under its own legal authority, federal rules help address issues that come from states sharing an environment that is not always bound by geography. As we all know, air pollution travels across borders, Learner said. One of the real challenges is that if Missouri and Iowa dont regulate greenhouse gases, and Indiana doesnt regulate greenhouse gases, then Illinois actions to reduce greenhouse gases here are surrounded by other states that are doing nothing. _______ This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Annenberg Science and Public Health (ASAPH) Survey Apr. 2025. Credit: Annenberg Public Policy Center Most Americans know that it's important for someone to take care of their health before getting pregnant and during pregnancy to increase their chance of having a healthy baby. Many people know, for instance, that smoking or drinking alcohol can have detrimental effects during pregnancy, increasing the likelihood that a baby is delivered early, is underweight, or has birth defects. But many people are unsure of other consequential knowledge that affects having a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby, according to an Annenberg Public Policy Center (APPC) health survey. The maternal health survey, conducted with a sample of more than 1,600 U.S. empaneled adults from April 1528, 2025, finds that most people are uncertain about which vaccinations are safe and recommended for pregnant people by medical professionals and what the appropriate pregnancy weight gain is for a healthy person. The following findings for adults 18 and older also highlight responses from the subset of survey respondents who are women of childbearing age, 1849 years old, when their responses differ significantly from the overall public. (See the topline.) "Because those around us influence our health decisions, persons of childbearing age and their families and friends should know the risks of smoking and alcohol use before, during, and after pregnancy and which vaccines should and should not be taken during pregnancy," said Patrick E. Jamieson, director of the policy center's Annenberg Health and Risk Communication Institute. The Annenberg Public Policy Center's April 2025 health survey finds that: Most U.S. adults know some of the factors that contribute to a healthy pregnancy, but there are gaps in their knowledgefor example, many don't know that iron supplements are required only for people with anemia or what a normal weight gain during pregnancy is. Nearly a quarter of the population does not know that untreated high blood pressure can increase the risk of stroke among pregnant people. There's uncertainty about which vaccinations medical professionals recommend as safe for pregnant peopleand fewer people know today which are recommended, compared with a year ago. Knowledge of which vaccines are recommended ranges from about a third of the public to over half. Just 11% of the public knows the measles vaccine is not recommended for pregnant people. How to have a healthy pregnancy and infant The vast majority of survey respondents are knowledgeable about consequential behaviors and medical conditions before and during pregnancy, including doctors' recommendations about taking medication and supplements. What most people get right about pregnancy health: Health during pregnancy: Nearly everyone (91%) knows that how well someone takes care of their health during pregnancy affects their baby's health. Health before becoming pregnant: Nearly as many survey respondents (86%) know that how well a person takes care of their health before getting pregnant affects the health of their baby. But among women 1849 years old, fewer (75%) get this right, a drop from 86% in 2023. Diabetes: 80% say correctly that pregnant individuals should be tested for diabetes. High blood pressure: Nearly three-quarters (73%) correctly say that untreated high blood pressure increases the likelihood that a pregnant person will have a stroke. Nearly a quarter (23%) are not sure if this is true. Folic acid: 71% know that people who are or may become pregnant should take a daily vitamin containing folic acid, a B vitamin. This dropped from 76% in 2023. Natural immunity: 69% know that it's false to say that because babies are born with natural immunity, they don't need to be vaccinated against an illness until they're likely to be exposed to it. But 15% incorrectly think this is true and 16% are not sure. When asked to consider which of several statements is more accurate: Taking medications: 87% of respondents say correctly that if someone finds out they're pregnant, they should talk with their doctor before stopping or starting any medications. However, this is true only for 78% of women of childbearing age. Breastfeeding: Over three-quarters of respondents (77%) know that it's more accurate to say that breastfeeding benefits both the baby and the parent than just the baby (12%), up from 71% when this question was asked in 2023. What more people need to know: Iron supplements are needed for those who are anemic: When asked what comes closer to the recommendation made by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding taking an iron supplement during pregnancy, less than half of respondents (42%) know that the recommendation that people who are pregnant should take an iron supplement if their health care provider finds that they're anemic is closer to what the CDC recommends. About a fifth (19%) think that those who are pregnant should take an iron supplement every day. Another 39% are not sure which comes closest to what the CDC recommends. Normal weight gain during pregnancy: The CDC recommends that a person of normal weight should gain between 25 and 35 pounds during their pregnancy. Less than half of those surveyed (46%) say a person of normal weight should gain between 25 and 35 lbs.as compared with the 25% who say a person of normal weight should gain 5 to 10 lbs. during pregnancy, and 25% who are not sure. Smoking, drinking, and pregnancy In questions on the effects of smoking and drinking alcohol during pregnancy, the survey finds that most people understand the negative impacts and how they can be avoided. Avoiding negative impacts: Birth defects: 82% know that smoking during pregnancy increases the chances that the baby will have birth defects. Early delivery: 77% know that smoking during pregnancy increases the chances that the baby will be born early, up from 72% when this was asked in 2023. SIDS: 56% know smoking in the home of a baby increases the chances that the baby will die from sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS. (See more of our previously released data on preventing SIDS.) Underweight: 81% know it's more accurate to say that smoking during pregnancy increases the chances that the smoker's baby will be underweight at birth (up from 76% in 2023), compared with the tiny numbers of those who say smoking will increase the chances a baby will be overweight (1%) or that it will have no effect (2%). Fifteen percent are not sure which is correct. Not drinking alcohol is another way to avoid negative impactsbut women of childbearing age are less likely than other people (men and older women) to know that they should abstain from alcohol if they are seeking to get pregnant: Drinking alcohol: Nearly two-thirds (64%) of respondents say it's more accurate to say that someone who wants to get pregnant should stop drinking both before and during pregnancy, which is what the CDC advises. However, nearly a quarter (23%) think it's more accurate to say that someone seeking to get pregnant should stop drinking as soon as they learn they're pregnant. Compared with the rest of the population, women 1849 are significantly less likely to say that someone who wants to get pregnant should stop drinking alcohol before and during pregnancy (58% vs. 66%). In addition, the proportion of women 1849 years old who think, incorrectly, that it's more accurate to say drinking should stop as soon as they learn they are pregnant increased significantly to 25% from 17% in 2024. Drinking while pregnant: 84% know that it's false to claim that drinking wine or beer while pregnant is safe. Fewer know which vaccines medical professionals advise during pregnancy Medical professionals recommend that most pregnant people take the following vaccines while they are pregnant if they have not yet taken these vaccines during their pregnancy: Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), seasonal flu, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). (See the CDC's recommendations here.) The survey finds a significant drop over the past year, since April 2024, in the numbers of people who know that medical professionals recommend these three vaccines for most pregnant people. The measles vaccine (MMR) is not recommended but the survey finds that most people are unsure whether or not it is recommended. This section presents results for the full adult sample and among women 1849 years old. The women ages 1849 are more knowledgeable that doctors recommend the Tdap vaccine (52%) than the rest of the population (31%). There are no statistically significant differences between this subgroup and the rest of the population in knowing that doctors recommend the other vaccines (flu and RSV) or knowing that doctors do not recommend the MMR vaccine, though women 1849 are less uncertain about which vaccines are recommended than everyone else. Tdap: Just over a third of U.S. adults (37%) say medical professionals recommend that most people who are pregnant should take the Tdap vaccine, down from 43% in April 2024, and 57% are not sure. Among women of childbearing age (1849 years old), over half (52%) say this is correct while 39% are not sure. Nearly two-thirds (64%) of those not in this childbearing age group say they are not sure and just 31% say that Tdap is recommended to pregnant women by medical professionals. Flu: Over half of U.S. adults (55%) know that medical professionals recommend the flu vaccine for pregnant people, down from 60% in April 2024, while 39% are not sure. Women in the childbearing age group are less likely to say they are not sure about the flu vaccine recommendation than everyone else (32% vs. 42%). RSV: Less than half of U.S. adults (47%) know that the vaccine against RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is recommended for pregnant people, down from 52% in April 2024, while an equal number (47%) are not sure. The proportion of women of childbearing age who correctly know this is recommended dropped 10 points to 52% from 62% in 2024. Measles: The measles or MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella), is not recommended during pregnancy because it is a live virus vaccine, according to the CDC. There is a great deal of public uncertainty about whether pregnant people should get a measles vaccine: only 11% correctly know that medical professionals do not recommend it for pregnant people. Nearly 3 in 10 adults (29%) say incorrectly that medical professionals do recommend it for people who are pregnant and 60% are not sure. Women of child-bearing age are less likely to say they are not sure (52%) when compared to the rest of the population (63%). An APPC news release in May 2025 explored survey findings that the risks of measles during pregnancy are not widely understood. WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump's administration on Tuesday proposed revoking a scientific finding that has long been the central basis for U.S. action to regulate greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change. The proposed Environmental Protection Agency rule would rescind a 2009 declaration that determined that carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases endanger public health and welfare. The endangerment finding is the legal underpinning of a host of climate regulations under the Clean Air Act for motor vehicles, power plants and other pollution sources that are heating the planet. Repealing the finding will be the largest deregulatory action in the history of America," EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are people who, in the name of climate change, are willing to bankrupt the country," Zeldin said on the conservative Ruthless podcast. "They created this endangerment finding and then they are able to put all these regulations on vehicles, on airplanes, on stationary sources, to basically regulate out of existence, in many cases, a lot of segments of our economy. And it cost Americans a lot of money. The EPA proposal must go though a lengthy review process, including public comment, before it is finalized, likely next year. Environmental groups are likely to challenge the rule change in court. Zeldin called for a rewrite of the endangerment finding in March as part of a series of environmental rollbacks announced at the same time in what he said was "the greatest day of deregulation in American history.'' A total of 31 key environmental rules on topics from clean air to clean water and climate change would be rolled back or repealed under Zeldin's plan. Under the Obama and Biden administrations, his predecessors at EPA twisted the law, ignored precedent and warped science to achieve their preferred ends and stick American families with hundreds of billions of dollars in hidden taxes every single year,'' Zeldin said Tuesday at an event in Indiana announcing the proposed rule change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tailpipe emission limits also targeted The EPA also called for rescinding limits on tailpipe emissions that were designed to encourage automakers to build and sell more electric vehicles, a rule Trump incorrectly labels an EV mandate. The transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Environmental groups said Zeldin's action seeks to deny reality even as weather disasters exacerbated by climate change grow worse in the U.S. and around the world. As Americans reel from deadly floods and heat waves, the Trump administration is trying to argue that the emissions turbocharging these disasters are not a threat,'' said Christy Goldfuss, executive director of the Natural Resources Defense Council. It boggles the mind and endangers the nations safety and welfare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under Zeldin and Trump, the EPA wants to shirk its responsibility to protect us from climate pollution, but science and the law say otherwise,'' she added. If EPA finalizes this illegal and cynical approach, we will see them in court. Three former EPA leaders have also criticized Zeldin, saying his March announcement targeting the endangerment finding and other rules imperiled the lives of millions of Americans and abandoned the agencys dual mission to protect the environment and human health. If theres an endangerment finding to be found anywhere, it should be found on this administration because what theyre doing is so contrary to what the Environmental Protection Agency is about, Christine Todd Whitman, who led EPA under Republican President George W. Bush, said after Zeldin's plan was made public. The EPA proposal follows an executive order from Trump that directed the agency to submit a report on the legality and continuing applicability of the endangerment finding. Conservatives and some congressional Republicans hailed the plan, calling it a way to undo economically damaging rules to regulate greenhouse gases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But environmental groups, legal experts and Democrats said any attempt to repeal or roll back the endangerment finding would be an uphill task with slim chance of success. The Supreme Court ruled in 2007 that EPA has authority to regulate greenhouse gases as air pollutants under the Clean Air Act. Passing court muster could be an issue The EPA proposal seeks to deny settled science by creating legal distinctions that have no basis in the law, said Abigail Dillen, president of the environmental law firm Earthjustice. Rather than take seriously its responsibility to protect public health, the Trump administration is pretending that the pollution causing climate change is not hurting us, even as we suffer more devastating climate disasters every year," she said. If finalized, repeal of the endangerment finding would erase current limits on greenhouse gas pollution from cars, factories, power plants and other sources and could prevent future administrations from proposing rules to tackle climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The endangerment finding is built on a rock-solid scientific foundation that has gotten even stronger over time," said Fred Krupp, president of the Environmental Defense Fund. The finding has supported commonsense solutions that reduce pollution, give us cleaner air and protect our health and our jobs, he said. Climate scientists warned that overturning the endangerment finding would undermine decades of scientific progress and damage the credibility of U.S. institutions tasked with protecting the environment. The 12 hottest years on record have all occurred since 2009, and heat-related deaths are rising while wildfires are now more frequent and severe, said Scott Saleska, professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Arizona. To repeal the endangerment finding now would be like a driver who is speeding towards a cliff taking his foot off the brake and instead pressing the accelerator, Saleska said. Jim Walsh, policy director of the environmental group Food & Water Watch, used a more explosive metaphor. Lee Zeldins assertion that the EPA shouldnt address greenhouse gas emissions is like a fire chief claiming they shouldnt fight fires,'' he said. It is as malicious as it is absurd." ___ Follow the AP's coverage of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency at https://apnews.com/hub/us-environmental-protection-agency. This story appeared in The Logoff, a daily newsletter that helps you stay informed about the Trump administration without letting political news take over your life. Subscribe here. Welcome to The Logoff: The US and the European Union have arrived at a new trade deal, just days before President Donald Trumps threatened deadline to impose substantial new tariffs. Whats in the agreement? Only the broad strokes of the deal have been announced so far, but it sets a new tariff rate of 15 percent on many imports from the EU, half the 30 percent rate that had been threatened. It also includes a promise of mutual tariff-free trade on some products, including aircraft and some generic drugs, and a European commitment to buy $750 billion in US energy over the next three years. Other points are still under negotiation, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, including whether European wine and other spirits will receive an exemption from the 15 percent tariff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How is Trumps trade war faring elsewhere? Earlier this month, Trump sent a new round of tariff demand letters to US trade partners, with a new deadline of August 1 (this Friday) to reach a trade deal and head off drastic tariffs. Since then, the US has reached a number of new agreements, including a deal with Japan last week but many more are still outstanding. Among those is a deal with China, which negotiators met to discuss on Monday; a mutual suspension of tariffs between the two countries is set to expire on August 12, but is likely to be extended an additional 90 days as talks continue. What else should I know about the tariffs? Hovering over all Trumps tariff threats and trade deals is the question of whether any of this is legal. One court, the US Court of International Trade, already ruled against the tariffs in May; now, an appeals court will hear the case on Thursday, and it will likely wend its way to the Supreme Court after that. And with that, its time to log off I greatly enjoyed the latest entry in my colleague Benji Joness unofficial wildlife motion cameras series, about artificial watering holes in the jungles of Guatemala (and dont miss his earlier piece, about animals along the US-Mexico border, here). In Guatemala, conservation groups have begun leaving out water for animals during hot summer weather, and jaguars, spider monkeys, tapirs, and more have been captured on camera taking a drink. Theres some great video in his full story I hope you give it a read, and well see you back here tomorrow! People need homes, not handcuffs; health care, not institutionalization; and above all, compassion, not criminality, said Congresswoman Maxine Waters. Advocates and elected officials are slamming President Donald Trumps executive order cracking down on homelessness. Under the guise of protecting citizens vulnerable to public safety threats, the Ending Crime and Disorder on Americas Streets order enforces involuntary civil commitment for individuals living on the streets. The order calls for unhoused people suffering from mental illness or addiction to be admitted into mental health institutions or drug treatment centers without their consent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forcibly removing people from the streets and institutionalizing them is not just cruel and inhumane, but also blatantly ineffective, said U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters, D-Calif., the top Democrat on the U.S. House Financial Services Committee. Waters is among a chorus of voices who say Trumps order undermines evidence-based solutions to addressing the nations homelessness crisis like the housing-first model that has been used since 1990s. Instead, the president is taking a law enforcement approach, which critics say plays into a model of criminalization that they say has consistently proven to be unsuccessful. Housing first initiatives focus on providing permanent housing to those living on the streets and then offering them mental health or addiction treatment. President Trump argues in his order that the approach has failed. The Federal Government and the States have spent tens of billions of dollars on failed programs that address homelessness but not its root causes, leaving other citizens vulnerable to public safety threats, reads the executive order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scott Turner, U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the only Black American who serves in Trumps cabinet, argues that Trumps order prioritizes both public safety and support for unhoused Americans. He also slammed the Biden administration for their failed approach to curbing the homelessness crisis. As a result we saw the largest number of individuals living on the streets ever recorded, Turner said in a statement. Having a heart for our homeless brothers and sisters does not mean indefinitely subsidizing housing without accountability and proper requirements for treatment, recovery, and pathways for self-sufficiency. Secretary Turner added, Having a heart for our homeless brothers and sisters means helping them get back on their feet through a holistic approach so that the tough times will be temporary, and our streets and communities will be safer. But critics of the Trump administration argue that a lack of affordable housing is why homelessness rates continue to rise and that a housing first approach keeps people off the streets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alyia Gaskins, the mayor of Alexandria, Virginia, which is right outside of Washington, D.C., said Trumps order requires states and cities like hers to demonstrate aggressive enforcement. It encourages the expanded use of law enforcement, all at a time when we know that the criminalization of homelessness doesnt work, Gaskins, former housing advocate, told NPR. Gaskins, who is Alexandrias first Black female mayor, explained that experts know that in many cases, when you force people into treatment especially against their will it creates situations that are not sustainable. She continued, Oftentimes they try to remove themselves from that treatment, or as soon as they finish those programs, theyre then right back out on the street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gaskins said a housing first model focuses on getting people the stability they need so that treatment and other interventions actually work. She added, They do so in a way where we put people first and they have trust in the process and can build the relationship they need in order to sustain that care and support. The homelessness population is disproportionately comprised of Black Americansnearly 40%despite only making up 13% the U.S. population, according to Census data.That disproportionate share is true for Hispanics, Native and Native Hawaiian Americans. However, it most acute among Black Americans. Deliberately racist and discriminatory economic, housing, and criminal legal system policies have led to increases in homelessness and housing and economic insecurity among communities of color, particularly Black communities, according to a study published by the National Homelessness Law Center. The advocacy group offers three solutions to eliminating the racial disparities associated with housing insecurity: Divesting from law enforcement and investing in services that protect the community, including housing, health care, and education; investing in Black communities and other communities of color; and reducing conviction-related barriers to housing and employment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congresswoman Waters warned that Trumps latest executive order, in addition to his overall policy agenda, will only exacerbate the homelessness crisisnot improve it. At a time when more than 771,000 people are sleeping on the streets on any given night, this latest move paired with Trump and Republicans latest action to cut funding for crucial housing and basic needs programs will only worsen an already devastating crisis, said Waters. We must abandon inhumane and expensive approaches to homelessness that only worsen the problem and rob us of hope for a brighter future. People need homes, not handcuffs; health care, not institutionalization; and above all, compassion, not criminality. More must-reads: President Trump is facing growing pushback on multiple fronts over his administrations decision to allow Nvidia to sell its H20 chips to China, a move that critics argue could give Beijing a leg up in the race to develop artificial intelligence (AI). A group of former national security officials and tech policy advocates called on Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to reverse course in a letter Monday, as several Democrats and at least one key Republican voiced concerns over the decision. [W]e believe this move represents a strategic misstep that endangers the United States economic and military edge in artificial intelligence (AI)an area increasingly seen as decisive in 21st-century global leadership, the letter reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration initially restricted sales of Nvidias H20 chips to China in May, but the chipmaker announced earlier this month that it was taking steps to sell the chips again after receiving assurances from the government that its licenses would be granted. Lutnick indicated the decision was part of a broader rare earth deal with Beijing, while arguing that they were only receiving Nvidias fourth best chip. However, this has done little to assuage concerns. Mondays letter argued the H20 is not an outdated chip and can still accelerate Chinas AI capabilities, while limiting the number of chips available to the U.S. It also suggested the move would likely weaken the effectiveness of export controls and encourage Bejing to seek more concessions from Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), the top Democrat on the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, and Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.), the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, similarly expressed concerns Sunday that the administration is using export controls as a bargaining chip. This approach risks eroding the credibility of our export controls regime, blurs the line between economic and security priorities, and sends a dangerous signal that critical guardrails are up for negotiation, the lawmakers wrote in a letter to Lutnick. The two Democrats suggested they no longer have confidence the administration is following the rigorous, evidence-based interagency process required to determine export controls under the law. It is clear that this Administration is gambling with our national security and our economy all for the sake of President Trumps trade war that is harming American families, workers, and consumers, they added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their letter was followed up by another from Senate Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.) and Sens. Mark Warner (Va.), Jack Reed (R.I.), Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) and Chris Coons (Del.). They argued the decision to allow for H20 sales to China undermines the Trump administrations AI Action Plan unveiled last week, which focused heavily on winning the AI race with China. Remarkably, the administrations own AI Action Plan may in fact exacerbate the harm of rescinding these controls, the senators wrote in Mondays letter. [B]y aggressively endorsing proliferation of powerful open weight models from U.S. firms, while simultaneously giving PRC firms access to leading-edge chips to finetune those models and deploy them to millions of global users on H20-enabled PRC cloud infrastructure, the administration has in effect reduced two key barriers to PRC efforts to challenge U.S. AI leadership, they added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least one key Republican has also spoken out about the decision Rep. John Moolenaar (R-Mich.), chair of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party. He warned in a letter to Lutnick earlier this month that allowing H20s into China could boost their AI capabilities and urged the Commerce Department to limit export controls to a slight technical improvement on Beijings current capabilities. Trumps chip policy is also facing scrutiny in other respects. After rescinding former President Bidens AI diffusion rule in May, Trump has yet to introduce a replacement framework. The diffusion rule placed curbs on chip sales to most countries around the world other than a select few U.S. allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several House Republicans led by Rep. Mark Alford (R-Mo.) urged the Trump administration in letter earlier this month to provide a stable exporting structure to replace the rule. Trump touted his decision to walk back the diffusion rule last week as part of his AI Action Plans focus on exporting U.S. technology abroad, slamming what he described as the Biden administrations extreme restrictions on chip exports. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A mountaintop near Cumberland, Kentucky, remains scarred after it was strip mined in search of coal. Many mining companies walked away without remediating the land after filing for bankruptcy. Now a new mine is planned in East Tennessee on the Kentucky border. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) This story was originally published by Grist. Sign up for Grists weekly newsletter here. It looked for a while like the coal mining era was over in the Clearfork Valley of East Tennessee, a pocket of mountainous land on the Kentucky border. A permit for a new mine hasnt been issued since 2020, and the last mine in the region shuttered two years ago. One company after another has filed for bankruptcy, with many of them simply walking away from the ecological damage theyd wrought without remediating the land as the law requires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But theres going to be a new mine in East Tennessee one of a few slated across the country, their permits expedited by President Donald Trumps declaration of an energy emergency and his designating coal a critical mineral. Trump was only hours into his second term when he signed an executive order declaring a national energy emergency that directed federal agencies to identify and exercise any lawful emergency authorities available to them to identify and exploit domestic energy resources. The administration also scrapped Biden-era rules that made it easier to bring mining-related complaints to the federal government. The emergency designation compresses the typically yearslong environmental review required for a new mine to just weeks. These assessments are to be compiled within 14 days of receiving a permit application, limiting comment periods to 10 days. The process of compiling an environmental impact statement a time-intensive procedure involving scientists from many disciplines and assessments of wildlife populations, water quality, and other factors is reduced to less than a month. The government insists this eliminates burdensome red tape. Were not just issuing permits were supporting communities, securing supply chains for critical industries, and making sure the U.S. stays competitive in a changing global energy landscape, Adam Suess, the acting assistant secretary for land and minerals management at the Interior Department, said in a statement. A representative of the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement told Grist that community safety is top of mind, pointing to the administrations $725 million investment in abandoned mineland reclamation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Department of Interior ruled that a new mine slated for Bryson Mountain in Claiborne County, Tennessee, would have no significant impact and approved it. It will provide about two dozen jobs. The strip mine will cover 635 acres of previously mined land that has reverted to forest. Hurricane Creek Mining plans to pry 1.8 million tons of coal from the earth over 10 years. The Clearfork Valley, which straddles two rural counties and has long struggled economically, bears the scars of more than a century of underground and surface mining. Local residents and scientists regularly test the creeks for signs of bright-orange mine drainage and other toxins. The land is part of a tract the Nature Conservancy bought in 2019 for conservation purposes, but because of ownership structures in the coalfields, it owns only the land, not the minerals within it. We have concerns about the potential environmental impacts of the operation, the organization said in a statement. We seek assurance that there will be adequate bonding, consistent and transparent environmental monitoring, and good reclamation practices. Matt Hepler, an environmental scientist with the environmental advocacy group Appalachian Voices, has been following the mines public review process since the company applied for a permit in 2023. He remains skeptical that things will work out well for Hurricane Creek Mining. Despite Trumps promise that he is bringing back an industry thats been abandoned, coal has seen a steady decline, driven in no small part by the plummeting price of natural gas. The number of people working in the nations coal mines has steadily declined from 89,000 or so in 2012 to about 41,300 today. Production fell 31 percent during Trumps first and has continued that slide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What is this company doing differently thats going to allow them to profitably succeed while so many other mines have not been able to make that work? he said. All the time Ive been working in Tennessee theres only been a couple of mines permitted to begin with because production has been on the downswing there, Hepler added. Economists say opening more mines may not reverse the global downward trend. Plentiful, cheap natural gas, along with increasingly affordable wind and solar, are displacing coal as an energy source. The situation is so dire that one Stanford University study argued that gas would continue its climb even with the elimination of coal-related regulations. Metallurgical coal used to make steel and which Hurricane Creek hopes to excavate fares no better. It has seen flat or declining demand amid innovation in steel production. Expedited permits are leading to new mines in the West as well. The Department of the Interior just approved a land lease for Wyomings first new coal mine in 50 years. Ramaco Resources will extract and process the material to retrieve the rare earth and other critical minerals found alongside it. The Trump administration also is selling coal leases on previously protected federal land. Shiloh Hernandez, a senior attorney at the Northern Rockies office of the environmental nonprofit Earthjustice, thinks it is a fools errand. I dont see them changing the fundamental dynamics of coal, he said. Thats not to say that the Trump administration wont cause lots of harm in the process by both making the public pay more money for energy than they should and by keeping some of these coal plants and coal mines that really are zombies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Hernandez said he isnt seeing many new permits, just quicker approval of those already in the pipeline. That said, the Trump administrations moves to streamline environmental review will reduce oversight and the time the public has to scrutinize coal projects. The result is theres just going to be its going to be more difficult for the public to participate, and more harm is going to occur, Hernandez said. Theres going to be less attention to the harm thats caused by these operations. This article originally appeared in Grist. Grist is a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to telling stories of climate solutions and a just future. Learn more at Grist.org President Donald Trump moved to fire the career federal prosecutor New Jersey judges picked to be acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey, according to court records filed Tuesday. The Department of Justice revealed Trumps decision in an email filed with a federal judge in Pennsylvania, who is preparing to weigh in on an escalating fight between the Trump administration and the federal bench in New Jersey. The filing underscores Trumps direct involvement in a bid to keep his former personal attorney, Alina Habba, as New Jerseys top federal prosecutor, despite the expiration last week of her 120-day tenure as interim U.S. attorney and New Jersey judges selecting prosecutor Desiree Leigh Grace to serve in Habbas place. Trump recently withdrew Habbas nomination to the Senate for the post, part of an unusual maneuver to bypass the judges selection and keep Habba in the role on a longer-term but still temporary basis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps workaround is now creating uncertainty across the federal criminal justice system in New Jersey. A defense attorney, Thomas Mirigliano, is trying to get 2024 drug and gun charges against his client thrown out by arguing the Trump administrations maneuvering was irregular and unconstitutional. The case, which is now pending before U.S. District Judge Matthew Brann, an Obama appointee based in Pennsylvania, challenges Habbas authority to run the office and prosecute criminal cases. In a 29-page response made Tuesday at noon, the Department of Justice said Habba is legally the acting U.S. attorney and walked through each step of the workaround that it says allows Habba to continue serving. But the department made lengthy arguments meant to keep criminal cases from unraveling in the event a judge decides that Habbas authority is dubious. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among other things, the filing argues that the 2024 case at issue was initiated by a validly empaneled grand jury and a Senate-confirmed U.S. Attorney, Biden-nominated Philip Sellinger. The department argues prosecutors ultimately report to and derive their power from Attorney General Pam Bondi. No one is questioning Bondis legitimacy. The government also argues Bondi named Habba a special attorney, a role that gives her authority separate from whether she is U.S. attorney. The federal public defender in New Jersey, K. Anthony Thomas, emphasized in a separate filing Tuesday morning the complexity and importance of the legal issues involved. He argued that different criminal cases may present different sets of facts, depending on whether charges were brought by Habba or her predecessors. Thomas wrote that it is critical that the court decide these issues as they are presented by the facts of each case and with the benefit of full briefing, a suggestion that could create sprawling litigation across New Jersey. Thomas did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Documents filed Tuesday by the Justice Department also show the lengths that the Trump administration went to keep Habba on the job and to be sure that Grace got the message she was fired. Grace said in a LinkedIn post last week that she was honored to be appointed by the judges. At 12:02 a.m. Saturday, when Grace was to have taken office, Saurabh Sharma, a special assistant to the president, emailed Grace arguing the judges lacked the authority to appoint her and even if the judges had the authority, the president was removing Grace from office. The same day, Jay Macklin, the general counsel for the Executive Office for United States Attorneys, sent Grace a letter calling out the LinkedIn post saying, as you are well aware, you were removed from employment. According to a Monday filing by another defense attorney, Graces departure is also causing other problems for the U.S. Attorneys Office. Prosecutors asked to delay the trial in at least one case a triple homicide, including a pregnant woman because Grace had been handling it. Habba picked Grace, a respected career prosecutor who is a registered Republican, to be her No. 2 earlier this year. But as Habbas nomination became imperiled and her tenure as interim U.S. attorney was set to expire, district court judges selected Grace to replace Habba under a federal power that allows judges to appoint prosecutors until the Senate confirms the presidents nominee. President Donald Trump said one of Jeffrey Epsteins most well-known accusers was part of the dispute that ended their friendship. Speaking to reporters, Trump added more details to his previous account of how he fell out with the late sex trafficker. The president shared earlier this week that their acquaintance came to an end after Epstein poached some of Trumps employees at Mar-a-Lago. While aboard Air Force One on Tuesday, he admitted that some of the employees were young women who worked in the resorts spa, and he believed Virginia Giuffre was among them. Everyone knows the people that were taken, Trump said. People were taken out of the spa, hired by him. In other words: gone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One reporter pushed Trump, asking if Giuffre was one of the employees. I think so. I think that was one of the people, Trump said. He stole her. And by the way, she had no complaints about us, as you know. None whatsoever. Giuffre died by suicide in April. The White House previously claimed that Trump cut ties with Epstein for being a creep. Aboard Air Force One, Trump was asked to clarify which story was true. Start your day with essential news from Salon. Sign up for our free morning newsletter, Crash Course. Well, maybe theyre the same thing, sort of a little bit of the same thing, Trump said. He took people that worked for me, and I told him, Dont do it anymore, and he did it. So, I said, Stay the hell out of here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elsewhere in the chat, Trump said Rupert Murdoch and the Wall Street Journal were eager to settle his $10 billion defamation lawsuit. The president sued the outlet after it shared a report of a letter between Trump and Epstein on the occasion of Epsteins 50th birthday. Ive been treated very badly by the Wall Street Journal, Trump said. They are talking to us about doing something, but well see what happens They want to settle it. Listen to the audio below via YouTube. The relevant section begins around the 16-minute mark: The post Trump: Giuffre was at center of dispute that ended Epstein friendship appeared first on Salon.com. US President Donald Trump has announced that his new deadline for Russia to end hostilities against Ukraine is 10 days, starting on Tuesday 29 July. Source: Trump on board Air Force One, as reported by European Pravda Details: Asked to clarify when the new deadline for Russias leadership to establish peace in Ukraine begins, Trump said: "10 days from today." Quote from Trump: "And then were going to put on tariffs and stuff, and I dont know if its going to affect Russia, because he [Putin] wants to, obviously, probably keep the war going." Background: On 28 July, Trump expressed his disappointment with Putin and promised to shorten the 50-day deadline he had previously set for achieving peace in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed Trumps new deadline for Russia. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described Trumps decision to shorten the deadline to achieve peace as a "realistic and firm" position. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! My daughter Millie is a radiant young woman with thick hair, a brilliant smile and multiple disabilities. She doesnt walk independently, she cant feed herself, shes legally blind, and she doesnt speak, sign or communicate with symbols. She has qualified for government services provided for disabled Americans since she was less than a year old. She is now 24. As a widow with a full-time job, I understand the value of paid care; my daughter and I cant live without it. President Donald Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act will reduce Medicaid spending by nearly $1 trillion over a decade. Since it passed the Senate and House, and was signed into law by the president earlier this month, I have met each day with a sense of dread. Medicaid pays the wages of millions of home health workers, aides and personal assistants, including Millies. My daughter is the definition of vulnerable. Left to her own devices, shed die of thirst and hunger. If a fire broke out in our house, she would burn. Her caregivers feed her, toilet her, bathe her, strap her into her wheelchair, take her for walks and take her swimming. They accompany her to adaptive bowling and dances with other disabled young people, and if the noise is too much for her, they take her home. When Im gone, they tuck her in, and at 2 a.m., when she pops up like a jack-in-the-box, giggling and whining, they sit with her until she exhausts herself and falls back to sleep. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has denied that the trillion-dollar cut to Medicaid will harm my daughter. This is debatable, but one thing is certain: Millies caregivers and their communities will suffer. For many people, in this economy there are few good options when it comes to making a living. But unlike Uber or DoorDash drivers, caregivers cant just turn off the app. They may be earning little, and their working conditions may be poor, but if their co-worker fails to show up to relieve them, they have no choice but to stay. In her book Loves Labor: Essays on Women, Equality, and Dependency, the philosopher Eva Feder Kittay describes this as the inherent injustice of care work. Vulnerability breeds vulnerability; anyone who has worried about a loved one knows this truth. Call it moral hazard, or simply the moral imagination. The best of our human impulses, our capacity for fellow feeling, should be fairly rewarded. Its not. And now, in Trumps America, empathy seems dead. But care workers are still held tightly in its grip. If empathy has ever been weaponized, its against them. The moral weight of care work falls mostly on women, many of them immigrants from the Global South, who do the work that allows women like me to have a career, freedom, hobbies, enough rest. Some of the women who care for Millie are from middle-class backgrounds. Some are white, like my daughter and me. Many are from working-class and immigrant communities who have to commute at least a half-hour to reach my house. Ive raised both my children with the help of women who had their own children to raise, including children with significant special needs. They only see their mothers early in the morning and late at night. Millies aides love her, but they also love their children, and they need this job to keep their family afloat. They didnt abandon my daughter during the most frightening months of the pandemic. Some have been with Millie since she was tiny; their children are now grown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The needs of clients weigh particularly heavily on parents and care providers who are undocumented, the very people Trump wants to deny access to state-funded care. Heres the deep irony: The same people who need the services provided by Medicaid are often the ones doing the work that Medicaid funds. Want more sharp takes on politics? Sign up for our free newsletter, Standing Room Only, written by Amanda Marcotte, now also a weekly show on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. According to the National Association of Counties, 40 percent of home health aides live in low-income neighborhoods and rely on some form of public assistance; 30 percent of them are on Medicaid themselves. Over one in ten direct care workers are non-citizens, many with their own disabled kids. Ive known mothers detained at the border and separated from their medically fragile children. Ive known parents whose own children, despite needing it, have never received government support. They hoist their sons in and out of wheelchairs after a day of feeding and bathing other peoples children. They stay up all night with their daughters, then rush them to underfunded day programs so they can make it to their low-paid job. Now they are targeted for deportation. Rutherfords forthcoming memoir will be released on September 30, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Let me be clear: Im not arguing that care workers only stick with their disabled clients out of pity. The moral demands of care work with people like my daughter lead beyond the stereotypes, which find nothing but suffering in disabled lives. Once, Millie and I were sitting with her aide outside a coffee shop under some scaffolding. Millies face was blank, and she sat motionless in her wheelchair. Passersby glanced at her, and I pictured what they were thinking: Lights out, no one home. I sometimes have the same impression. But then I noticed the sparrows making a racket overhead. Her aide whispered, I think Millie is concentrating on the birds. I dont know what Millie thinks, knows or wants not for sure, and not reliably and neither do her aides. They have to experiment to reach her: Listen to what shes listening to, let her fingers explore their arms, make funny noises and laugh with her when she laughs. Caring for Millie demands a kind of curiosity that is rare in our fractured society, where were quick to praise or blame. To empathize with her is not to presume to understand her; its to get caught in the riptide of her mysterious pleasures and pains. The riptide unleashed by this regrettable legislation will drag Millies aides into the shoals. The Trump administrations cuts will reduce Medicaid spending by imposing a work requirement on able-bodied recipients. Care work is often part-time, with periods of unemployment when clients move or die. Caregivers who depend on Medicaid will lose their coverage if their monthly reporting requirement isnt met. The administration will also stop state governments from using taxes on hospitals and nursing homes to increase their states share of federal dollars. In recent years, states have used the extra money to increase the wage rate for home health workers. There is already a severe shortage of care workers. A year or so from now, when these changes kick in, those who remain will find themselves pressed to do more for lower pay. And thats not counting the caregivers that ICE has already spirited away, like Nicolle Orozco Forero, from the disabled people who depend on them. The boy with autism who lost his best friend. The woman who ends up in an understaffed nursing home a woman who could be my daughter when Im no longer around. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With birth rates falling and the population aging, the United States needs people willing to brave the rough waters of professional caregiving. We need a path forward for undocumented care workers and a living wage for everyone who does this job. Trump, and so many other politicians, have turned their backs on the millions of recipients and workers who depend on Medicaid. The rest of us should not. We need to fight back. Empathy is a virtue; it should not be a trap. Its time to give caregivers their due. The post Trump and the GOP dont care for health caregivers appeared first on Salon.com. President Donald Trump suggested he could be flying on a refurbished Air Force One, gifted to the United States by the Middle Eastern country of Qatar, as soon as February of 2026. Speaking to reporters on July 29, the president said he's still unsure exactly how much the luxury jumbo jet, which he announced in May, will fully cost. "That's up to the military," he said. "I really haven't been involved. It's their plane." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's assertion follows reporting in The New York Times on July 27 that a recent $934 million transfer of Pentagon funds likely includes money to pay for and renovate the new plane. Democrats and experts have estimated the entire price tag of the project, including renovations, could potentially exceed $1 billion. The unprecedented gift of a Boeing 747, itself valued at $400 million, to the White House has been stirring controversy for months. The scrutiny from critics such as Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I., the ranking member of the Armed Services Committee, has centered on a view of the arrangement as an overreach of presidential authority, with unclear implications for American foreign policy. Read more: MAGA backlash: Trump's plan to accept Qatari plane draws fire from friends A memorandum of understanding signed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Qatari officials and viewed by USA TODAY says the plane is an "unconditional donation." Qatari officials offered it without contingencies related to "any past, present or future official act or decision," according to the memo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he initially announced the gift, Trump said he would be "stupid" not to accept what he called a "free, very expensive airplane." The president plans to use the jet while he's in office before donating it to his presidential foundation and library. Contributing: Cybele Mayes-Osterman, USA TODAY This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump hints when new Air Force One from Qatar could take off This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pragyan Bezbaruah from Pexels The first malaria treatment for babies and very young children of 2 months up to 5 years was approved for use by Swiss agency for therapeutic products, Swissmedic, in early July 2025. Until now, babies and very young children have been treated with medicines formulated for older children. The Conversation Africa asked Fortunate Mokoena, about the significance of this approval and what it means for the battle against malaria in Africa. She is a biochemist working on the identification of novel therapeutics for diseases that disproportionately affect children under five, including malaria and pneumonia. How important is this drug approval for malaria treatment in Africa? This approval is profoundly important. The WHO has set an ambitious and visionary goal to end malaria by 2030. This is a challenge that demands bold and multifaceted action: from insecticides and bed nets to vector control, vaccines, and effective treatments. The new drug is a shining milestone on the journey to end malaria. It brings hope and tangible progress by delivering life-saving medicine, carefully designed for the youngest and most vulnerablechildren under one year and as small as 4.5 kg. Each step like this not only saves lives, but also fuels the collective resolve to create a malaria-free Africa. That is, every child has the chance to grow, thrive, and dream without the shadow of this disease. The future of malaria treatment in Africa is brighter than ever. This approval not only saves lives and secures a better future for Africa's children, it also reinforces the tremendous potential of the continent. Ending malaria could save countless lives and unlock an estimated $126 billion in Africa's GDPa transformative impact on both health and prosperity. While Africa's drug discovery ecosystem is still young, it is already showing great promise. Pioneers like Prof. Kelly Chibale, whose groundbreaking antimalarial drug reached Phase II clinical trials, have shown what is possible. Through the H3D Foundation, Chibale has brought together some of Africa's finest scientific talent to focus on diseases like malaria and TB, fueling innovation and hope. This approval can serve as a powerful catalystinspiring and empowering African scientists to continue building the pipeline of life-saving medicines. With growing expertise, determination, and vision, Africa is poised not just to treat malaria, but to eradicate it. Also in leading the way toward a healthier, more prosperous future for all. What's the scale of malaria among children in Africa? Malaria remains one of the most pressing health challenges in Africa. In 2023, there were an estimated 263 million malaria cases and 597,000 malaria deaths in 83 countriesthe majority being young children and pregnant women. In 2023, the WHO African Region was home to 94% of malaria cases (246 million) and 95% (569,000) of malaria deaths. Children under 5 accounted for about 76% of all malaria deaths in the region. The burden is heaviest in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in rural areas where poverty and limited access to health care amplify the impact. Yet, this is also a powerful call to action. By tackling malaria, Africans have the opportunity not just to save lives, but to unlock the immense potential of the children. Also, strengthen communities, and build a healthier, more prosperous, and sustainable future for Africa. How have babies been treated for malaria up until now? The absence of effective malaria treatment options specifically tailored for neonates creates a significant gap in care for the youngest and most vulnerable children. It's heartbreaking that these precious little ones are often given medications designed for older children. This can lead to uncomfortable side effects and toxic reactions. It's essential to understand that children's bodies and their unique physiological needs differ greatly from those of adults. They demand a more personalized approach to their care. For instance, neonates are still developing their liver function, which impacts how they metabolize medications when compared to older infants. This highlights the urgent need for personalized treatment strategies in the fight against neonatal malaria. What are the likely hurdles ahead of the rollout? Swiss Medic is collaborating with eight African nations to enhance drug rollout through a global health initiative. Novartis, with the support of Medicines for Malaria Venture, developed the drug. It was co-funded by the European & Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. Novartis will introduce Coartem Baby, a not-for-profit malaria treatment for infants, addressing the urgent need for such solutions as 30 million children are born in areas of malaria risk in Africa each year. It has already been rolled out in Ghana, while eight others were expected to grant approval soonest. These are Burkina Faso, Cote d'Ivoire, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda. Additional funding for the roll out is essential, and leveraging local expertise can improve outcomes. In some regions, formulations may need lyophilization to cope with conditions like power cuts. Lyophilization, also known as freeze-drying, is a form of product preservation that removes all moisture and water from the product. Investing in local manufacturing infrastructure is crucial to lower production costs. This serves both as a call to action and a reminder of the ongoing fight against malaria. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. President Donald Trump suggested he fell off with Jeffrey Epstein because the disgraced financier stole Virginia Giuffre as an employee from his Mar-a-Lago spa. The president was speaking to reporters Tuesday when he was asked for further details on his split with onetime pal Epstein. On Monday, Trump admitted that the fracture in their relationship was because Epstein hired some of his workers from his Florida resort, contradicting previous White House explanations that it was because the convicted sex offender was a creep. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A day later, the president was asked whether Giuffre, one of Epsteins most prominent accusers, was one of the people stolen. I dont know, Trump said. I think she worked at the spa. I think so. I think that was one of the people. He stole her. And by the way that she had no complaints about us, as you know. None whatsoever. Giuffre, who died by suicide in April, met Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell while she was working at Trumps Mar-a-Lago club as a teenager in 2000. Maxwell offered Giuffre a job as Epsteins masseuse, which led to years of sex trafficking and abuse. Giuffre, who died aged 41, became an advocate for sex trafficking survivors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She sued Epstein and Maxwell, then took her accusations public, and also accused Prince Andrew of abusing her. A photo of Giuffre as a 17-year-old posing with the British royal and Maxwell which was taken by Epstein became infamous. Andrew denied her allegations and settled a lawsuit out of court. In 2019, Epstein was arrested on federal sex trafficking charges and later died in custody. Maxwell, a British socialite, was sentenced in 2022 to 20 years in prison for her role in helping Epstein recruit underage girls for sexual abuse. Virginia Giuffre, with a photo of herself as a teen, when she says she was abused by Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and Prince Andrew, among others. Miami Herald via Getty Images The Epstein scandal continues to engulf the Trump presidency weeks after the Department of Justice failed to release more documents on the tycoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A two-page DOJ memo published July 7 stated there was no evidence of a client list of powerful figures Epstein could potentially blackmail. A Wall Street Journal story published on July 17, which detailed a lewd birthday letter sent by Trump to Epstein, kept the controversy in the headlines. Trump dismissed the letter as a fake, and sued reporters behind the story and the papers owner. On Tuesday, Trump provided more details on his rift with Epstein, explaining that people were taken out of the spa at Mar-a-Lago. Trump said: I heard about it, I told him. I said, Listen, we dont want you taking our people, whether it was spa or not spa. I dont want him taking people. And he was fine. And then not too long after that, he did it again. And I said, Out of here. Trump: People were taken out of the spa, hired by Epstein I told him we dont want you taking our people, whether its spa or not spa. He did it again, I said out of here. Reporter: Was one of the stolen people Virginia Giuffre? Trump: I think so. He stole her. pic.twitter.com/sLoDdKNasn Acyn (@Acyn) July 29, 2025 Related... Had Sigal Chattahs appointment expired, Nevadas U.S. District judges would have been empowered to appoint her or a replacement. More than a hundred former judges from around the nation had signed a letter urging Nevada judges not to do so. (Screengrab from Chattah 2022 campaign video) With one day remaining in her term as Nevadas Interim U.S. Attorney, Republican firebrand Sigal Chattah caught a lifeline from President Donald Trump Tuesday that could keep her in office for another 210 days, albeit with another title. Under a provision of the Vacancies Reform Act of 1998, Chattah, thanks to Trump, will swap the interim designation, which entitled her to 120 days in office, for acting, and another 210 days on the job, and potentially while a nomination is pending in Congress, should Trump nominate her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By bypassing the Senate and naming Sigal Chattah as an acting U.S. attorney, its clear the Trump administration knows Ms. Chattah is unconfirmable, Nevadas senior U.S. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto said in a statement. This unprecedented maneuver sets a dangerous standard and risks holding up critical criminal cases just so that President Trump can play political games. At the end of the day, my position remains the same: Sigal Chattah is unfit for this role. The default rule of the Vacancies Act, according to a congressional overview, is for the first assistant to take over as acting officer. Alternatively, the President may direct either certain senior officials of the agency or any Senate-confirmed official to serve as the acting officer. This is an outrageous attempt by the Trump Administration to try to install extremist Sigal Chattah as Acting U.S. Attorney for Nevada and keep her in that role indefinitely, Democratic Sen. Jacky Rosen said in a statement. Trump knows Chattah would be soundly rejected by both sides of the aisle if she had to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, which is why hes relying on an unconstitutional maneuver to illegally extend her temporary appointment that was set to expire today. I will continue doing everything I can to block any permanent appointment of extremist Sigal Chattah as Nevadas U.S. Attorney. She is deeply unfit for this role, and I call on the legal system to immediately remove her, Rosen said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Had Chattahs appointment expired, Nevadas U.S. District judges would have been empowered to appoint her or a replacement, as the Current reported last week. When the term of New Jerseys Interim U.S. Attorney Alina Habba, Trumps former personal attorney, expired this week, federal judges appointed another prosecutor to the office. However, Attorney General Pam Bondi fired the employee, Desiree Leigh Grace, to prevent her ascension. Habba is the presidents former personal attorney. In a letter Monday, 116 former jurists from around the U.S. urged the Nevada judges not to entrust Chattah with authority we fear she will misuse. Appointing Chattah, who is known for incendiary rhetoric and a record of urging weaponization of law enforcement for political ends, according to the former judges, would endanger Nevadans and the rule of law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During her unsuccessful run in 2022 for Nevada attorney general, Chattah declared her Democratic opponent, incumbent Attorney General Aaron Ford, a Black man, should be hanging from a fking crane; longed for fewer pronoun badges and transgender individuals in America, while describing them with an offensive slur; and invited comparisons with Sen. Joe McCarthy and former Pres. Donald Trump by calling for the imprisonment of political foes. Norm Eisen, executive chair of Democracy Defenders Action, one of two organizations that spearheaded the letter, said the 116former jurists agree that Chattahs shocking racist and violence-tinged rhetoric should disqualify her from this office. Our system of equal justice under law depends on prosecutors that put their duty to the law above all else, said Greg Nunziatta, executive director of the Society for the Rule of Law. This Administration has a disturbing pattern of entrusting Justice Department leadership positions to individuals ill-suited to such roles, often evading the Senate confirmation process to do so. The role of a United States Attorney demands honesty, integrity, impartiality, judgment, and deep respect for the rule of law, said Michael Luttig, a retired judge who served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. Based on Ms. Chattahs public statements and conduct, we do not believe she even arguably meets this standard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chattah did not respond to requests for comment. In a social media post Tuesday, Chattah wrote: Donald J. Trump is the 47th President. Pam Bondi is the Attorney General. I am now the Acting United States Attorney for the District of Nevada and Special Attorney to the Attorney General. Rinse and repeat: The law is the ONLY thing that makes ALL people equal. The News The Trump administration is easing off its tough-on-China approach to technology export controls as it searches for leverage in trade talks and looks to propel US dominance on artificial intelligence. The administration is debating whether to scrap its plans to replace a Biden-era rule rescinded in May that set up a global framework for export controls designed to prevent US-designed AI technology like chips from flowing to China or Russia, two industry sources told Semafor. Thats not the only sign of a less hawkish approach to AI policy; the administrations new AI plan called for more open-source and open-weight models despite concerns that they could benefit Beijing. And US officials recently approved the sale of certain semiconductors produced by Nvidia to China, drawing bipartisan scrutiny on Capitol Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its a mistake, Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., told Semafor of the administrations approval of selling those chips. Because all theyre doing is helping China. I just think its a huge mistake. And Im not sure, I think some CEOs talked the president into it. I hope he turns out to be right, but I wouldnt have done it. The broader shift on export controls reflects Trumps conflicting priorities as he tries to cut new trade deals and keep his tough-on-China reputation. The president faces political risk from any perception that hes going soft on Beijing, and Democrats are trying to capitalize on that vulnerability. But as the US and China continue trade talks, some degree of horse-trading is all but expected. Senate Democrats, including Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick this week arguing that chip export curbs are needed to maintain the US edge in AI computing capability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What I see out in plain view is the president is helping a giant corporation make big money by moving chips to China instead of prioritizing the work done here in the United States, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., told Semafor. The Trump administration has not made a final decision on whether to replace the AI diffusion rule that it vowed in May to swap out, and its broader strategy is still a source of debate within the White House and Commerce Department, both sources told Semafor. President Trump and his administration remain committed to making the United States a global leader in AI, while also ensuring our most advanced technology does not fall into the hands of our adversaries, White House spokesman Kush Desai said in a statement to Semafor. These goals are not mutually exclusive, and we look forward to working with industry leaders to accomplish both these missions. In response to lawmaker criticism, a Nvidia spokesperson said that the Trump administrations approach promotes American technology leadership and benefits our national and economic security and that the US government has full visibility over every H20 sale to China. Know More The Biden administration greenlit Nvidias H20 chips for export to China under an aggressive export control regime. Trump moved to tighten those curbs in the spring, but then assured the company that those shipments would be approved. Similar assurances were given to tech firm AMD, as Bloomberg reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some lawmakers offered more nuanced assessments of Trumps move. Sen. Todd Young, R-Ind., a leading technology policy voice, said that blocking the sale of H20 chips which are not Nvidias most advanced product could actually cede ground to Chinese companies. On one hand, we dont want our chief adversary to have access to leading-edge, frontier chips. Even if these arent the most leading-edge chips, theyre still close, Young told Semafor. On the other hand, Young added, you dont want to create an atmosphere in which Huawei steps into the breach or others and makes its own stuff. Morgan and Burgess View The collective moves on export controls may signal that China hawks within the administration are taking a backseat to more tech-industry-focused advisers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It would be a notable, if not terribly surprising, turn after Trump took office promising a tougher approach to Beijing but also, new policies that are more favorable to AI companies on a global scale. It certainly seems at the moment, at least that the tech side has the upper hand, said Geoffrey Gertz, senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security. Michael Sobolik, an expert at the Hudson Institute who signed onto a letter raising concerns to Lutnick about the Nvidia move, also argued to Semafor that the administration was effectively capitulating to Silicon Valley. For decades, Washingtons China policy ran through Wall Street. That, predictably, resulted in American companies enriching the Chinese Communist Party and, in some cases, equipping the Peoples Liberation Army, he said. Now, just as elected officials have begun to reorient Americas approach to Beijing on a more competitive footing, Silicon Valley tech giants are demanding a veto. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dispensing with a new AI diffusion rule would also offer Trump more flexibility in trade talks with China that are a top priority for Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, despite the administrations touting of agreements with Indonesia, the EU, and other countries. Room for Disagreement Some Republicans argued the administration isnt giving the Chinese access to the most sophisticated technology and that makes it more palatable. The question is: Do you force them to create their own capabilities faster than what they otherwise would? Or do you provide them with chips that arent top of the line but only sell the ones that are second level, which is really what this is about, said Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D. I cant imagine that we would do anything that would give [China] an advantage with regard to advanced chips, he added. Notable An Australian Army Himars fires a Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) in the Northern Territory during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 - CPL Cameron Pegg A frantic arms race between the US and China is underway in the Pacific while the fate of Taiwan hangs in the balance. Washington and its allies are trying to stay ahead of Chinese capabilities, shaking Beijing off-balance as it considers whether it can launch a successful invasion of Taiwan. At the heart of the US strategy is a new technology that has the ability to inflict devastating losses on the Chinese navy: precision strike missiles (PrSMs, pronounced prisms). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The missile has just been tested in Australia, where it struck a target more than 190 miles away, marking the first time the Lockheed Martin-manufactured weapon has been used by a US ally. It can be fired with either American-made Himars or British MLRS artillery systems: missile launchers that were recently used by Ukraine to launch counter-offensives on invading Russian forces and strike deep inside enemy territory, blunting Moscows advances. Game-changing firepower To date, those launchers have been used with Atacms missiles, which have been in service for more than three decades with a top range of some 190 miles. But PrSMs reportedly have a range of more than 300 miles, with the potential for this to improve in future variants. And at the recent test flight in Australia, the missile reached speeds of 4,000kmph, beating the Atacms by some 300kmph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each launch pod will be able to hold two of the precision missiles, compared to just a single Atacm, according to Alex Miller, the US Armys chief technology officer. It is also said to be less susceptible to jamming. 2907 How Precision Strike Missile compares against the ATACM The PrSMs combine those next-generation improvements with the advantages of the Himars and MLRS systems, which are quick, agile and relatively easy to disguise and could wreak havoc on Chinese ships attempting an invasion. Brad Bowman, a senior director at the Foundation for Defence of Democracies, said: It really creates a challenge for our adversaries, because where that system is now, it may not be there in 30 seconds or five minutes Thats a real detection and targeting dilemma. Both the US and China are ramping up their military capabilities in the Pacific and particularly around Taiwan, which Beijing regards as part of its territory even though it has effectively been independent since the 1940s. Taiwan under threat Earlier this year, Xi Jinping, the Chinese premier, said reunification with China was inevitable, and that those on either side of the Taiwan Strait were one family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China has regularly threatened Taiwan with fighter jet and warship incursions, but has always stopped short of a direct confrontation. At a security conference in May, Pete Hegseth, the US defence secretary, warned that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan could be imminent. The stakes couldnt be higher, for both sides. PrSMs reportedly have a range of more than 300 miles, with the potential for this to improve in future variants If the USs military capabilities are outstripped by China, it would prove fatal to Taiwan, which relies on Washington to provide a credible deterrent. And if the island nation falls, it means the loss of a key strategic buffer against Beijing expansionism. But failing to take the island would inflict a stunning blow on China, and almost certainly lead to the fall of Xis regime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres always a constant battle with both sides to try to respond to whatever advances the other side has, said Doug Bandow, a senior fellow with the Cato Institute. But Id say these [PrSMs] have the potential for dramatically increasing the risk factor for a Chinese fleet. So thats substantial. Taiwan deployed Himars missile systems for the first time as part of the Han Kuang military exercise, July 12 - Daniel Ceng/Anadolu via Getty Images Chinas military will be only too aware of the damage Ukraine has managed to inflict on Russia using Himars since they were first provided by the US in June 2022, and will be warily eyeing the upgraded precision missiles. Taiwan already has 11 Himars from previous arms sales with the US, and it is expected to receive more in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Bandow said the PrSMs will have inflicted an important psychological blow on China without any shots even being fired, and could convince its leadership to delay its imperial ambitions. The most important advantage of a weapons advance like this is it simply encourages the Chinese to say, No we dont have to do it now, he told The Telegraph. In my view the best chance of getting through this is to simply have that happen a lot. And hopefully we can get to a point, whatever that point is, where everyone agrees war is really stupid and this wont happen. Credit: Taiwan Military News Agency Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Real damage could be inflicted on the Chinese fleet, both in ports and moving out to a potential invasion, if PRsMs are deployed throughout Taiwan and the rest of the first island chain, which includes Japan, Indonesia and parts of the Philippines. Australia aligns with US Elsewhere in the Pacific, Australia signed a $310m deal with the US to join the missile programme in June. This is all about extending deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, all about signalling to any potential adversary that pain can be inflicted, Pat Conroy, Australias defence industry minister, said at the test flight this month. But China is also moving quickly to innovate, and earlier this year appeared to be constructing D-Day style barges for an invasion that would allow it to bypass rocky or soft beaches unsuitable for tanks, providing multiple fronts for an invasion. Chinese D-Day style barges were spotted practising what appeared to be amphibious landings in the South China Sea earlier this year Some experts are concerned the US is too slow to procure PrSMs. The Pentagons recent funding request to Congress shows the army intends to buy 45 of the missiles from Lockheed Martin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres very rarely a decisive game changer by itself but this is a key capability for the United States and our allies to have, Mr Bowman said. That is the ability to sink Chinese naval vessels in large quantities from ground-based mobile platforms. Thats why I think we need a whole lot of them, fast. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The News The trade deal agreed this weekend between the US and the European Union hinges on natural gas but both sides seem to have overpromised what each can realistically buy and sell. In exchange for a modest reduction in economy-wide tariffs imposed by the US, and exemptions for aviation and some other sectors, EU officials agreed on Sunday to invest $600 billion in the US and to buy $750 billion in American energy products over the next three years. The investment promise is already crumbling, as the bloc has admitted it has no control over how the private sector spends its money. The energy promise will be next to fall. It faces the same fundamental problem: Bureaucrats in Brussels and Washington cant dictate the flow of global energy trade. And even if they could, the new target is far out of reach. Total US energy exports to the world were worth $318 billion last year, of which about $74.4 billion went to the EU, according to Rystad Energy. So to meet the target, the EU would need to more than triple its purchases of US fossil fuels and the US would need to stop selling them to almost anyone else. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These numbers make no sense, said Anne-Sophie Corbeau, a researcher specializing in European gas markets at Columbia Universitys Center on Global Energy Policy. Tims view Starting in his first term, Trump keyed in on liquefied natural gas as a central pillar of his trade strategy: The world wants more of it, the US has a lot of it, and the quickest route to winning Trumps heart on trade is to promise to buy plenty of it. China did this in 2019, followed in Trumps second term by Japan, South Africa, and others. But the US gas supply while indeed vast isnt infinite, and following the new EU deal there are officially far too many people in the queue for it. The problem with Trumps strategy, apart from its physical impossibility, is that it weakens his hand in future trade negotiations. Its now less clear what Trump expects other countries to offer him in exchange for favorable tariff terms. To the extent the White House is able to push gas to one place or another, any further deals predicated on promises to buy US energy will unavoidably mean shortchanging those allies who already signed up, and potentially leave investors holding the bag on multi-billion-dollar import facilities that go underused. And the more US gas Trump gives up for sale abroad, the less will be left behind for sale at home, undermining his promise to keep consumer energy prices low as the data center boom drives US utilities on a mad rush for more gas (especially as the administration is simultaneously pushing to cut support for renewables). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement World leaders have clearly learned that they can kind of cajole [Trump] into positive press by offering these big numbers [on energy sales], said Alex Jacquez, a former senior Biden administration official on the White House National Economic Council. Whether any of that is enforceable, whether its going to happen, whether its actually good for the broader US energy dominance strategy, is all really doubtful. Trump is also establishing a pattern whereby countries can make what is essentially an empty promise on energy, extract better trade terms for the time being, and then hope that Trump leaves office before he catches on. That, again, is what China did back in 2019; its energy imports from the US never came close to what was promised at the time, and in the meantime it bought itself a few more years of relative detente in its trade tensions with the US. Its not clear where all this additional gas could come from, or where it will go: US LNG export facilities are already at capacity. More are in the works and could be operational in the next few years, but during that time, Europes gas demand is expected to level off. This is to say nothing of the fact that the European Commission the blocs executive arm, which negotiated the deal does not have the power to direct individual member states to purchase more LNG, or any other commodity. Officials in Brussels have privately suggested that even if LNG imports dont pick up, per se, Trump may want to see concrete interim steps like new investments in import terminals. But Europes existing regasification capacity already exceeds its total gas demand, Corbeau said. Even as the EU pushes to completely sever its energy ties with Russia, there is practically no headroom for new gas import infrastructure. And even if there was, its not clear that a drastic boost in Europes energy reliance on the US is in the blocs long-term strategic interest. Russias invasion of Ukraine revealed the risks of an overreliance on a single, politically unstable supplier, said Laurie van der Burg, global public finance manager at the advocacy group Oil Change International: The EU has just fallen into another dangerous fossil fuel dependency trap. Room for Disagreement Wall Street was more bullish about the possibilities for greater US-Europe energy trade: Share prices of top LNG companies jumped following the deal. And Venture Global, a leading builder of US LNG export terminals, closed a $15 billion financing round that it said involved 30 international banks. Notable A former FBI staffer has told The Atlantic that President Donald Trumps picks to lead the nations top law enforcement agency have no idea what theyre doing and are playing dress up. Michael Feinberg, an assistant special agent in charge at the FBIs field office in Norfolk, Virginia, left the FBI after getting a call from his boss in late May about a friendship with a former agent who criticized the president. Feinberg, a 15-year veteran of the bureau, chose to depart from the agency rather than be fired. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino became aware that Feinberg was friends with former counterintelligence agent Peter Strzok, who has long provoked the presidents fury. Strzok was fired during Trumps first term after the Department of Justice released texts in which he spoke negatively about Trump, who attacked him for his work on the probe into Russian election interference in 2016. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The connection to Strzok was sufficient for the bureau to cancel a promotion for Feinberg, he told The Atlantic. His boss indicated that he might be demoted and that he would have to take a polygraph test regarding the friendship. He chose to leave the FBI. I love my country and our Constitution with a fervor that mere language will not allow me to articulate, and it pains me that my profession will no longer entail being their servant, Feinberg wrote in his resignation letter, according to The Atlantic. He has chosen to speak out following his departure as former colleagues at the bureau have asked him to, themselves fearing retribution. FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino have no idea what theyre doing, Michael Feinberg argues (Getty) In an essay published by Lawfare early this month, Feinberg argued that the FBI is increasingly concerned with ideological purity and the ceaseless politicization of the workforce, which makes us all less safe. He joined the FBI in 2009 because he wanted to protect both United States interests in the world and the rule of law on the domestic front. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Feinberg speaks Mandarin and helped lead the bureaus probe into Huawei, the Chinese technology company, which the U.S. alleged was stealing trade secrets from U.S. firms. Following his departure, Feinberg is unsure if any senior counterintelligence officials speak Chinese at the bureau. Its particularly concerning to me, as someone who dedicated his professional career to combating the Chinese Communist Party and all of its tentacles, to see resources and efforts diverted away from hostile foreign intelligence services and other serious threats to the homeland to focus on minor immigration status offenses, he wrote in his essay. Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide on August 10, 2019, at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York City (Florida Department of Law Enforcement) Bongino and FBI Director Kash Patel became embroiled in the ongoing scandal about the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein earlier this month. They initially claimed that stark revelations would be made about Epstein and his connections to the wealthy and powerful. However, the Trump administration released a memo quashing the notion that Epstein had a client list and rejected any conspiracy theories surrounding his death by suicide in a Manhattan jail cell on August 10, 2019. Asked about the Epstein scandal, Feinberg told The Atlantic: They get a kick out of playing dress-up and acting tough. But they actually have no idea what theyre doing. The Trump administration is proposing a repeal of the landmark finding that climate change poses a threat to the public as well as repealing all climate regulations on cars and trucks. Speaking in Indianapolis on Tuesday, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin announced that the agency is proposing to abandon the Obama-era finding on the dangers of greenhouse gases. The endangerment finding also underpins the nations climate regulations, including those governing the automobile sector. The EPAs proposal would rescind climate regulations for cars and trucks, meaning automakers would no longer have to abide by any climate rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision goes farther than even the first Trump administration. Trump 1.0 left the endangerment finding in place but dramatically weakened Obama-era regulations on cars. Zeldin described the move as the largest deregulatory action in the history of the United States. In a written statement, he said: We heard loud and clear the concern that EPAs GHG emissions standards themselves, not carbon dioxide which the Finding never assessed independently, was the real threat to Americans livelihoods. The 2009 endangerment finding proposed that emissions of carbon dioxide, methane and other greenhouse gases (GHG) threaten public health and welfare, and that vehicular emissions are a contributing factor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration is now proposing to find instead that that there is insufficient reliable information to retain the conclusion that GHG emissions from new motor vehicles and engines in the United States cause or contribute to endangerment to public health and welfare in the form of global climate change. The impacts of Tuesdays proposal appear to be limited to its regulations on the auto industry and does not directly address the EPAs regulations on other emitting sectors including power plants. However, in June, the Trump administration separately proposed to find that power plants greenhouse gas emissions do not contribute significantly to dangerous air pollution and therefore should not be regulated. The Trump administration estimated that repealing all climate regulations on cars and trucks will result in between $157 billion and $444 billion worth of benefits between 2027 and 2055. This includes between $114 billion and $365 billion in savings due to projected changes in the makeup of the vehicle market namely that fewer vehicles will be electric than under Biden-era rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, if finalized, the moves are expected to put more carbon dioxide into the air and therefore exacerbate climate change. When it imposed its latest set of regulations on light- and medium-duty vehicles, the Biden administration estimated that doing so would prevent 7.2 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions through the year 2055 about four times the emissions of the whole U.S. transportation sector in 2021. The rules are also expected to lead to increases in pollutants like soot that also stem from gas-powered cars. The move comes amid a broader effort by the Trump administration to cut down on government regulations across the board, as well as to undermine efforts to combat climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Climate change is primarily caused by human activity, especially the burning of fossil fuels. The phenomenon is exacerbating extreme weather around the world. The proposal also comes during a summer plagued by repeated weather disasters including deadly flooding in Texas that killed more than 130 people, as well as floods in other parts of the country and extreme heat on the East Coast. In conjunction with the EPA move, the Energy Department released a report claiming that CO2-induced warming might be less damaging economically than commonly believed. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has a history of downplaying climate changes impacts. While on the campaign trail, President Trump repeatedly pledged to repeal climate regulations on cars in particular, arguing that they harmed the auto sector and consumers choices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zeldin previously indicated plans to reconsider both the endangerment finding and climate regulations. The EPA first made the endangerment finding in 2009 after the Massachusetts v. EPA court case. That case authorized the EPA to regulate planet-warming emissions under the Clean Air Act if the agency found that they pose a threat to the public. The EPAs move on Tuesday is not final. The draft determination will need to go through a public comment period before the agency can finalize it. Democrats slammed the proposal as both harmful and unscientific. Arguing that greenhouse gases emissions dont put us in danger by causing climate change is like saying that a lit match cant put us in danger by burning down the house, said Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) in a written statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is nothing more than selling out Americans safety and future just for the convenience of polluters. Trump, Zeldin, and their whole cabal of polluters should be ashamed, he added. Updated at 4:58 p.m. EDT Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Happy Tuesday! Heres your Tuesday Tech Drop, the past weeks top stories from the intersection of technology and politics. Trumps warning to Starmer Dont censor my disinformation-filled social media platform ... or else. That was the gist of President Donald Trumps message during a Monday meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland, while responding to a conveniently phrased question about whether he anticipates that a new United Kingdom law requiring social media sites to protect children from harmful content will lead to his social media platform, Truth Social, being censored. Starmer disagreed with the reporters phrasing, saying the law is primarily designed to protect children. With a smile on his face, Trump said any censorship of his platform would be a mistake and that hed have his ambassador look into any such activity. This appeared to have been said in jest but, coming from Trump, we cant make any assumptions: His administration hasnt hidden its disdain for content moderation laws in Europe and has even reportedly raised concerns about them during trade talks with European nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch more at Forbes YouTube channel. Uber app update Uber recently announced that it will soon be testing a new option called Women Preferences on its ride-sharing platform, which will allow women riders to request women drivers. The move comes in response to alleged incidents of sexual assaults. Read more at CNN. The risk of using ChatGPT for counsel OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently issued what amounted to a public warning, saying during a podcast appearance that he thinks its very screwed up that his company could be legally obligated to turn over conversations with ChatGPT that would be legally protected if they took place with a therapist, doctor or lawyer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more at PC Magazine. Chatbot camaraderie Relatedly, a new report from The Associated Press highlights the disturbing trend of teens turning to artificial intelligence chatbots for friendship and seeking consultation from them about serious matters, rather than asking real people. Read more at The Associated Press. Teas security tested by hackers Tea, an app conceived as a safe space for women to talk about men, was recently hacked. The company estimated that 72,000 images including 13,000 verification photos and images of government IDs were accessed. Read more at NBC News. Boeing seemingly avoids major repercussions A new report from The Verge highlights how Boeing appears to have evaded major repercussions over a raft of highly public catastrophes after the aircraft company cozied up to the Trump administration and donated to Trumps inauguration fund. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more at The Verge. Trumps AI action plan enrages MAGA world Trump released an action plan designed to help the U.S. dominate the AI space. Its basically a list of goodies for Big Tech and even some of his loudest supporters hate it, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and Steve Bannon. Read more at MSNBC. Dems respond to MAGA-fueled AI dreams Liberal think tank Third Way released a plan for Democrats to counter Trumps AI plan that it says will encourage innovation while discouraging what it views as dangerous AI accelerationism that ignores technologys harmful impacts on society. Read more at Third Way. Identity theft accomplice sentenced An Arizona woman has been sentenced to eight years in prison for her role in an identity theft scheme designed to steal Americans identities for North Koreans to use to secure remote jobs at U.S. companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more at NPR. DOGEs AI tool to take a bite out of regulations An exclusive report from The Washington Post detailed how Trumps dubiously titled Department of Government Efficiency is preparing to use an AI tool to cut 50% of federal regulations, as the administration rapidly tries to institute AI tools throughout the government to impose the presidents highly controversial deregulatory agenda. Read more at The Washington Post. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Just after Congress voted July 17 to strip $1.1 billion from public broadcasting, President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform to jubilantly share the news. "HOUSE APPROVES NINE BILLION DOLLAR CUTS PACKAGE, INCLUDING ATROCIOUS NPR AND PUBLIC BROADCASTING, WHERE BILLIONS OF DOLLARS A YEAR WERE WASTED," Trump said. "REPUBLICANS HAVE TRIED DOING THIS FOR 40 YEARS, AND FAILED.BUT NO MORE. THIS IS BIG!!!" The federal government has funded public television and radio stations since 1967 via appropriations to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. CPB bankrolls PBS and NPR affiliate stations, but it also gives money to many independent broadcasters including Rogers State University's public television station, RSUTV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teri Bowers, general manager of RSUTV, said the CPB cut means more than half of the station's budget about $800,000 will go up in smoke next fiscal year. But Bowers said she won't let this loss of funds spiral into an extinction event. "What would happen if we don't find a replacement for those funds?" Bowers said. "Worst-case scenario, we would lose staffing and operations and would be in danger of going off air. But I guess I'm just too invested now. Don't want to see that happen." She said the station uses its federal funding for everything from general operations to staff paychecks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congress clawed back CPB appropriations by passing a rescissions package the first to clear Congress since Bill Clinton's presidency. Rescission is a procedure by which the president may request legislators to cancel already-appropriated funds. The same package also cut more than $8 billion in foreign aid programs. Trump and other Republicans have long accused NPR and PBS of harboring a left-leaning bias. Speaking to Fox Business several hours before the final rescissions vote, Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said public broadcasts have become a "tool of the leftist socialists." Bowers said RSUTV is not political and runs no NPR or PBS programming because it is independent. Andrew Martin, the station's marketing coordinator, said charges of bias against these stations have nothing to do with RSUTV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That's why the blanket rescission is so impactful for rural communities because we're distinguishably not that," Martin said. Bowers said RSUTV staffers 12 full-time employees and a rotating cast of about 10 student workers each year produce five shows. They run as live TV broadcasts and are also available on the RSUTV app or online at rsu.tv. "Perspectives," a community affairs talk show, and "I Want Answers," a quiz show for high school students, have both been on air more than 15 years. "Studio 66" showcases live musicians, while "Food Fight" tests high schoolers' cooking skills. Its newest show, "Generations," will be a discussion-type program about generational differences. Bowers said RSUTV is also growing into a separate function streaming RSU classes. She said since the COVID-19 pandemic, the station has begun recording and broadcasting select courses on RSUTV 2. She said the station covers about 10 to 12 classes, including Cherokee language lectures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the station is too useful and far-reaching to let die. "We are a multigenerational resource," Bowers said. "We have our loyal audience that really relies on our broadcast programming, and then we have our up and coming audience, Generation Z, the college students who are really accessing their content digitally. We can provide that, and then everything in between." CPB grants funding every two years; that means federal money runs out at the beginning of Fiscal Year 2026 next July. After that, Bowers and Martin said, RSUTV will need community support to survive. The free station cannot charge for programming, Bowers said, as its Federal Communications Commission license is non-commercial. The station allows people to make donations online at rsu.tv/donate. Bowers said people can become members and get access thereby to exclusive on-demand content by donating $60 or more a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The station also takes on corporate sponsors like RCB Bank, whose support Bowers said makes "I Want Answers" possible. "We are looking at grants, and we are asking viewers to really consider how much they pay on streaming something like Netflix or Hulu. ... We really are going to be pushing fundraising, like all public media, but along with that showing what we're offering," Bowers said. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Sixty years ago this week, President Lyndon Johnson signed Medicare into law, giving all Americans over 65 access to health coverage. Today, nearly 69 million Americans rely on this coverage. Half of them get it directly from the federal government through traditional Medicare, and half from insurance companies that offer Medicare Advantage plans, also funded by the federal government. The program now includes people with major disabilities too. But two recent studies from a University of Michigan team suggest that many older and disabled Americans could use more help picking the best Medicare option for them. Getting help from others or online with Medicare decisions One of the studies published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society shows that only about 38% of people over 65 who switch Medicare plans get any help in doing so, with much lower percentages among those who don't have family caregivers. In all, the study finds only about 13% of enrollees switch plans in a given year. It also shows that only 33% of those who have Medicare use the Internet to research their options or handle other insurance matters, with much lower percentages among those who did not attend college or have lower household incomes. The study also looked at data from 2015 to 2023 from people over age 71, and showed that the percentage getting help was never above 50% and dropped during the first years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Use of the internet for insurance matters by Medicare enrollees over 71 rose sharply in recent years, from less than 20% to just over 30%. Medicare decisions for people with dementia The other recent study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia: Behavior & Socioeconomics of Aging shows that, even though people with dementia may have very different health care needs than those without dementia, Medicare Advantage plan choice patterns are very similar for the two groups. This suggests a lack of help in searching for the best option for someone with dementia, whether they are choosing a plan themselves or with help from a spouse, partner or adult child. However, the study does show that people with dementia who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid because of a low income were more likely to choose a "special needs plan" that offers more care management help. A dizzying array of choices The lead researcher on both studies is Lianlian Lei, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the U-M Medical School's Department of Psychiatry. She notes that most older adults have dozens of plans to choose from, including traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and add-on plans to cover prescription drugs and other expenses. This creates many dimensions to the decision that older adults and people with disabilities face when they first join Medicare, and then every year during Medicare Open Enrollment, which runs from mid-October to early December. She also notes that free, unbiased help is available to help them find the plan that best fits their health needs, including state-level programs funded by federal dollars, through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, also called SHIP. They can also use the Medicare system's online Medicare Plan Compare tool to explore each option open to them. That site includes ratings of Medicare Advantage plans and Part D prescription drug plans that assign a number of stars to each plan based on quality measures and satisfaction surveys. Meanwhile, older adults receive many promotional mailings and invitations to events from health insurance companies and insurance brokers, touting their products and services. "If you just look at the flyer they send you, it offers little information, so if you want to know a plan's star rating, benefits offered, or see which providers and hospitals are in its network you have to go to the internet," she said. "That's what makes it so shocking that a lot of people enrolled in Medicare don't use the internet for insurance information." Even if someone visits the Plan Compare site to learn about plans open to them and see their star ratings and costs, they will also need to go to the website of each Medicare Advantage plan they're considering in order to see the current network of providers and hospitals that accept that plan, and to learn about things like the prior authorization process for some types of care. Meanwhile, she said, "The SHIP program was designed to help people get unbiased counseling. But many people don't know this help is available, and because it's delivered by state agencies and relies in part on local groups and trained volunteers, there is variation in quality." Some people may rely on word of mouth from friends and family, but that doesn't take into account the fact that health needs vary greatly from person to person. If someone makes a decision based mainly on the monthly premium that they'll pay under traditional Medicare or an MA plan, that leaves out key things like copays, deductibles and prescription drug price lists, which can greatly change the total cost of choosing that plan. Building on previous findings, with more to do Previous research has shown that many older adults aren't aware of the state-level help programs and that older adults who are part of couples usually choose the same Medicare Advantage option as their spouse, even if their health needs are different. Lei and colleagues also recently published findings about what drives people to leave a Medicare Advantage plan or return to traditional Medicare. They show that inability to access care, and dissatisfaction with care quality, mattered much more than cost. "Many older people probably research their health insurance less than they research buying a car, in part because it's hard to compare different plan options, the information is not well organized and you have to seek it from many sources," she said. The new papers come from Lei's broader effort to understand Medicare-related decision-making among older adults. She and colleagues at the U-M Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation continue to explore different aspects of Medicare enrollment decisions. More information: Lianlian Lei et al, Support and Internet Use in Navigating Medicare Plans Among Older Americans, Journal of the American Geriatrics Society (2025). DOI: 10.1111/jgs.19516 Lianlian Lei et al, Older adults living with dementia enrolled in similar Medicare Advantage plans compared to those without dementia, Alzheimer's & Dementia: Behavior & Socioeconomics of Aging (2025). DOI: 10.1002/bsa3.70016 Journal information: Journal of the American Geriatrics Society US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said his 10-day deadline for Moscow to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine is in effect, as the Kremlin appeared unfazed by threats to hit Russia's trading partners with major tariffs. "Ten days from today," Trump told reporters on his flight back to the United States from Scotland. "We're going to put on tariffs and stuff." Earlier this month, Trump threatened to hit Russia's trading partners with "severe" tariffs if Moscow did not agree to a ceasefire within 50 days, giving Russian President Vladimir Putin a deadline of September 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But during a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday, Trump said he would reduce the 50 days he gave Putin "to a lesser number," saying this could be "10 or 12 days." Trump justified the move by saying he was disappointed with Putin, who had shown no willingness to compromise. The Kremlin has repeatedly emphasized that it will not be pressured into a deal. "We have taken note of President Trump's statement yesterday," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying by Russian state news agency TASS. Peskov went on to say that the ongoing normalizing of ties between Russia and the US had slowed down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Moscow is still interested in maintaining relations and hopes that the process will gain great momentum, he added. With his tariff threats, Trump wants to further weaken the Kremlin's economic base by putting more pressure on Moscow's main trading partners such as China and India, although the US president has not yet specified which countries could be affected. A White House spokeswoman recently mentioned the oil sector. If there is no agreement on a ceasefire nor a peace deal within the deadline, countries that purchase oil from Russia will be sanctioned, she said. President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Russia must agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine by Aug. 8 or risk sanctions, accelerating a deadline that was previously up in the air. Trump in July set a 50-day deadline for the agreement with Ukraine, threatening tariffs if a deal was not made. On Monday, during his meeting with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, he said he was shortening this deadline to 10 or 12 days. Aboard Air Force One on Tuesday, on his way back to the United States, Trump said the clock was ticking and it was 10 days from today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And then were going to put on tariffs, Trump added, and I dont know if its going to affect Russia, because he wants to, obviously, probably keep the war going. The president has flipped on his views on the war in Ukraine throughout his second administration, recently expressing he is disappointed with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He said Tuesday he has not yet heard from Russia about the new timeline. We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin, if you want to know the truth, Trump said at a Cabinet meeting in July. Hes very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps push for a ceasefire in the war is part of his push to be seen as an international peacemaker, a role he said will be his proudest legacy in his second inaugural address. The president has lamented the lack of deal in the war, with Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine beginning in 2022 while Joe Biden was president. Before his inauguration, Trump insisted he would end the war in Ukraine on day one of his second term, blaming Biden for allowing the war to begin. (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer did not discuss London's plan to recognise a Palestinian state unless Israel takes a number of steps to improve life for Palestinians. Starmer said on Tuesday that Britain was prepared to recognise a Palestinian state in September at the United Nations General Assembly in response to growing public anger over the images of starving children in Gaza. "We never did discuss it," Trump told reporters on board Air Force One while traveling back to the U.S. after meeting Starmer in Scotland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said recognizing a Palestinian state would reward Palestinian militant group Hamas. "You're rewarding Hamas if you do that. I don't think they should be rewarded," he said. Trump said the U.S. had sent money for food aid for Palestinians in Gaza, and that he wanted to make sure it's properly spent. "I want to make sure the money is spent wisely and is spent judiciously, and that food is distributed in a proper manner," he said. (Reporting by Ryan Patrick Jones in Toronto. Editing by Bhargav Acharya and Mark Potter) President Donald Trump wants to move on from his administrations fiasco over the Jeffrey Epstein files, but he keeps hampering that effort by opening his mouth. The most recent instance has to do with precisely why the two men had a falling out about two decades ago. Trump acknowledged on Tuesday that the employees who he said Monday that Epstein poached from him, triggering their breakup, were young women who worked in the spa at his Mar-a-Lago club. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The answer is yes, they were, he told reporters on Air Force One while traveling back from Scotland. The answer doesnt just call into question Trumps honesty about his relationship with Epstein, but also his potential knowledge of the accused sex traffickers misconduct. (Trump has not been accused of any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein.) A day earlier, the president said theyd fallen out because Epstein stole people that worked for me including after he had warned Epstein not to do it again. But Trump had made no mention of the employees being young women. And the White House last week had said Trump barred Epstein from his Mar-a-Lago club for being a creep. (Trump on Tuesday said the two reasons were sort of a little bit of the same thing.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But back in 2019, reporting traced their fallout to another factor entirely: the two powerful real estate men competing for the same Palm Beach property. Its clear that this is something of a sensitive subject. After Epsteins arrest in 2019, Trump declined to go into detail about their falling out, telling reporters, The reason doesnt make any difference, frankly. But it surely does now. So where does the truth lie? Trump was the most forthcoming so far on Tuesday. Epstein hired away Mar-a-Lago spa employees more than once, Trump said, even after being warned against it, prompting him to cut ties with Epstein and throw him out of the club. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I said, Listen, we dont want you taking our people, whether it was spa or not spa, Trump told reporters. And then not too long after that he did it again and I said, outta here. He also acknowledged that one of those employees may have been Virginia Giuffre, one of Epsteins most prominent accusers, who died by suicide earlier this year. I think she worked at the spa, Trump said. I think that was one of the people, yeah. He stole her. With these answers, theres clear overlap between Trumps account Monday and what the White House said last week. I wouldnt talk [to him] because he did something that was inappropriate. He hired help, Trump said of Epstein on Monday, adding: He stole people that worked for me. I said, Dont ever do that again. He did it again, and I threw him out of the place, persona non-grata. I threw him out, and that was it. And last week, the White House communications director said: The fact is that the president kicked [Epstein] out of his club for being a creep. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both of those accounts differ from the falling out thats portrayed in a 2019 Washington Post report about the two men competing for a bankrupted oceanfront property called Maison de lAmitie a process that included plenty of hardnosed tactics. (The first Trump White House at the time did not comment on or deny that story.) When asked by CNN on Tuesday to reconcile these accounts, the White House said, Nothing more to add to POTUS comments. There are still plenty of unanswered questions. Trump casting Epstein as merely having stolen employees even young women from the spa would be a pretty shocking way to characterize recruiting someone into a sex-trafficking ring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The whole thing certainly adds to questions about what Trump knew and when about Epsteins activities. Those questions had already been relevant for a host of reasons. Theres the infamous 2002 Trump comment about how Epstein likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side. Theres the Florida businessman who has said he expressed discomfort to Trump about putting on a calendar girl event with Epstein. I said, Look, Donald, I know Jeff really well, I cant have him going after younger girls, he recalled telling Trump, according to The New York Times. And then theres longtime Trump adviser Roger Stones 2016 book, in which he quoted Trump citing how Epsteins swimming pool was full of beautiful young girls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How nice, I thought, Trump said, according to Stone, he let the neighborhood kids use his pool. And then theres another reported scene at Mar-a-Lago. A 2020 book by reporters for the Miami Herald and Wall Street Journal reported that Trump actually severed ties with Epstein after he hit on a Mar-a-Lago members teenage daughter. The way this person described it, such an act could irreparably harm the Trump brand, leaving Donald no choice but to remove Epstein, one of the books authors said. Whats particularly striking here is the timeline. In former Trump aide Sam Nunbergs telling to the Washington Post in 2019, Trumps excommunication of Epstein from his club for recruiting a young woman for massages came years before Epsteins sex-trafficking investigation became public knowledge. That would mean years before 2005. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But that and Trumps own comments Tuesday suggest the president might have known something unsavory was going on before a lot of other people did. Giuffre, after all, was a teenaged employee during the relevant period. The president doesnt seem to want to talk about that. But as with so many of his other answers on Epstein, that only leads to more questions. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Jeffrey Epstein took young women who were working for him at the Mar-a-Lago spa. Reporters asked Trump for details about his falling out with Epstein on Air Force One following the Presidents comments the previous day that he ended his years-long friendship with the convicted sex offender after he stole people that worked for me. Trump confirmed that Epstein hired young women who worked in the spa of his private club in Florida. He declined to say how many staffers Epstein hired, saying it was many years ago. I have a great spa, one of the best spas in the world in Mar-a-Lago. And people were taken out of the spa. Hired by him. In other words, gone. And other people would come and complain, this guy is taking people from the spa. I didn't know that, Trump told reporters. And then when I heard about it, I told him, I said, listen, we dont want you taking our people, whether it was spa or not spa. I dont want him taking people. And he was fine. And then not too long after that, he did it again. And I saidout of here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked specifically about Virginia Giuffre, a victim of Epsteins sex-trafficking who has alleged she was recruited while working at Mar-a-Lago as a teenager, Trump confirmed he thought she was among the employees Epstein stole from the resort. I dont know. I think she worked at the spa. I think so. I think that was one of the people, yeah, the President said. He stole her. And by the way, she had no complaints about us, as you know, none whatsoever. Trump has faced increased scrutiny over his years-long friendship with Epstein since the Wall Street Journal published an article alleging that he sent a bawdy birthday letter to the now-disgraced billionaire financier in 2003. Trump has denied writing the letter, and filed a lawsuit against the Journal's parent firms, its owner Rupert Murdoch, and the two reporters behind the article. The Journal later reported that the Justice Department informed Trump at a May meeting that his name was among the many in the Epstein files. Epstein has been the subject of attention and conspiracy theories for years, but his case has drawn renewed interest after the Justice Department and FBI released a memo earlier this month, concluding that the disgraced financier didnt have a client list of co-conspirators and that his 2019 death in jail was a suicide. Trump, facing outrage from many of his own supporters, has tried and failed to brush off concerns about the case. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have called on the Administration to release the files related to the Epstein case for transparency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amid the controversy, Trump instructed Attorney General Pam Bondi to ask a court to release the transcripts of grand jury testimony made against Epstein years ago. A federal judge in Florida rejected one of the requests, but another ruling is pending. Contact us at letters@time.com. US President Donald Trump has said he fell out with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein after he "stole" young women who worked at his Mar-a-Lago beach club spa. The president made the remarks as he returned from Scotland, where he faced more questions over his relationship with the disgraced financier. "He took people, I say 'don't do it anymore', you know they work for me... beyond that, he took some others," Trump said. "Once he did that, that was the end of him." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It comes as the legal team for Epstein's conspirator, Ghislaine Maxwell, indicated she would only testify before Congress on what she knows about the case if she is granted strict legal protections. Amid public pressure for more disclosures in the Epstein case, a House of Representatives committee subpoenaed Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence, to testify before lawmakers on 11 August. In a letter obtained by the BBC's US partner CBS, her legal team said she would only do so if granted immunity or pardoned, and provided with questions in advance. Questions about Trump's relationship with Epstein followed him on to Air Force One on Tuesday, where he was asked to expand on comments he made the previous day in Scotland where he said: "He [Epstein] stole people that worked for me." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked if the employees were young women, Trump responded: "the answer is yes", and added that they were hired "out of the spa" he ran. Trump said that one of them was Virginia Giuffre, who had said she began working at Mar-a-Lago in the summer of 2000, when she was 16. According to court documents unsealed in 2019, Giuffre alleged she was recruited by Ghislaine Maxwell to give massages to Epstein while she was working at the spa. Giuffre accused Prince Andrew and Epstein of sexual abuse, allegations they both denied. She died by suicide earlier this year in Australia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump remark's aboard Air Force One are his latest on how he and Epstein's relationship ended. Last week, the White House said Trump kicked Epstein out of his Mar-a-Lago club "for being a creep". Pressed on whether there was a discrepancy between the reasons, Trump said: "You know, it's sort of a little bit of the same thing." Trump and Epstein fell out in the early 2000s, after having been friends for more than a decade. It also comes amid mounting pressure on Trump officials to release files related to Epstein and growing frustration with the administration's handling of the issue, including its failure to deliver a rumoured "client list". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump had promised to release such files about the well-connected sex offender while campaigning for the presidency last year. But in a memo earlier this month, the justice department and FBI said there was no "incriminating" list. Last week, the Wall Street Journal reported that Attorney General Pam Bondi informed Trump during a May briefing that his name was among hundreds that appeared in justice department documents related to Epstein. Being named in such files is no confirmation of wrongdoing. The two were spotted together at parties throughout their friendship. At least two women who had attended those events later came forward with sexual assault allegations against Trump. One of them was Jill Harth, who accused Trump in a 1997 lawsuit of forcibly kissing her and fondling her at a Mar-a-Lago event for young women where Epstein was also in attendance, the New York Times reported. Trump denied the allegations and the lawsuit was dropped. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another woman, model Stacey Williams, accused Trump of groping her after she was brought to Trump Tower in Manhattan by Epstein to greet Trump. The president has also denied her allegations. Last week, the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump had written a "bawdy" letter to Epstein in 2003 for his birthday. It reportedly contained a joking reference that "enigmas never age" and allegedly ended with the words: "A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday - and may every day be another wonderful secret." Trump has dismissed the article as "fake" and has sued the publication for defamation. Ghislaine Maxwell is serving a 20-year prison sentence [Getty Images] Trump and Epstein reportedly fell out in 2004 over a sought-after Palm Beach oceanfront property that had fallen into foreclosure. Trump ultimately outbid Epstein for the home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2006, Epstein was indicted in Florida for solicitation of prostitution and later pleaded guilty to the charges. He was then arrested in 2019 over federal charges of sex trafficking, and died by suicide in prison before his trial. Maxwell is serving a 20-year prison sentence after she was found guilty of helping Epstein sexually exploit and abuse young girls over the course of a decade. She was subpoenaed by House Oversight chairman James Comer last week to testify before Congress. Her lawyers made an appeal for clemency from President Trump, writing that if she "were to receive clemency, she would be willing - and eager - to testify openly and honestly". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier on Tuesday, a spokesperson for Comer said the Kentucky congressman "will not consider granting congressional immunity for her testimony". Comer told CNN last week that there were not "many Republicans that want to give immunity to someone that may have been sex trafficking children". Asked whether he would give clemency to Maxwell, Trump told reporters last week that doing so was within his powers, but that he had "not thought" about it. [BBC] Follow the twists and turns of Trump's second term with North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher's weekly US Politics Unspun newsletter. Readers in the UK can sign up here. Those outside the UK can sign up here. US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that he fell out with Jeffrey Epstein because the convicted sex offender had poached staff from his club's spa, including the woman at the center of an underage sex scandal involving Prince Andrew. The White House has said previously that Trump threw Epstein out of his Mar-a-Lago club two decades ago "for being a creep" and US media has reported that they became estranged over a Florida real estate deal. Speaking to reporters on Air Force One while flying home from Scotland, Trump gave some of his most expansive public comments yet about his falling out with Epstein, the wealthy and well-connected financier who died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking underage girls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "People were taken out of the (Mar-a-Lago) spa, hired by him, in other words gone," Trump said. "When I heard about it, I told him, I said, 'Listen, we don't want you taking our people.' "And then not too long after that, he did it again. And I said, 'Out of here.'" Trump also confirmed that one of the Mar-a-Lago spa attendants taken by his longtime friend Epstein was Virginia Giuffre, who brought a civil case against Epstein friend Prince Andrew, accusing him of sexually assaulting her when she was 17. Giuffre, who accused Epstein of using her as a sex slave, committed suicide at her home in Australia in April. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think she worked at the spa," Trump said. "I think that was one of the people. He stole her." Before taking office in January, Trump promised to release more information about Epstein, who right-wing conspiracy theorists allege trafficked young girls for VIPs. Trump infuriated some of supporters, however, when the FBI and Justice Department announced in early July that they had not discovered any new elements warranting the release of additional information about Epstein. Scrutiny has been intensifying ever since on Trump's own relationship with Epstein. - 'Clemency' - Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seeking to tamp down the furor, the Justice Department has sought the release of grand jury transcripts from the investigation into Epstein and interviewed Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's imprisoned accomplice, last week. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche -- who is also Trump's former personal attorney -- met with Maxwell over two days but declined to say what was discussed in the highly unusual meetings between a convicted felon and a top Justice Department official. Maxwell, 63, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence after being convicted in 2021 of recruiting underage girls for Epstein, offered meanwhile to testify before a House of Representatives committee but only if granted immunity. Maxwell's lawyers, in a letter to the House committee which has subpoenaed her to testify next month, said she would be prepared to do so "if a fair and safe path forward can be established." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If Ms Maxwell were to receive clemency, she would be willing -- and eager -- to testify openly and honestly, in public," they said. Without clemency, the former British socialite would only testify if granted immunity. "Ms Maxwell cannot risk further criminal exposure in a politically charged environment without formal immunity," her lawyers said. Maxwell would also need to see potential questions in advance and would not agree to be interviewed at the Florida prison where she is being held, they said. Finally, her lawyers said, any testimony could only come after the Supreme Court decides whether or not to hear Maxwell's appeal seeking to have her conviction overturned. They said that if the conditions could not be met Maxwell would invoke her Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination. cl/sms President Donald Trump said convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein stole Virginia Giuffre from his Mar-a-Lago club, a stunning admission that could increase scrutiny of his relationship with the late financier even as his administration seeks to change the subject from Epstein. Trump was speaking to reporters Tuesday when he was asked about his comments over the weekend about a falling-out with Epstein because he took employees from his business. "He took people that worked for me. And I told him, 'Dont do it anymore.' And he did it," Trump said, telling reporters that he barred Epstein from Mar-a-Lago, his estate in Palm Beach, Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I said, 'Stay the hell out of here,'" he said. Pressed about whether any of the "stolen" employees were young women, Trump said many of them worked in the club's spa. "The answer is yes, they were in the spa," he said. "I told him, I said, 'Listen, we dont want you taking our people, whether it was spa or not spa.' ... And he was fine. And then not too long after that, he did it again." Trump was asked specifically whether Epstein had stolen Giuffre, who was one of Epstein's most prominent abuse survivors and led the charge calling for his arrest. Giuffre, who died by suicide in April, has said she met Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell while she was working at Mar-a-Lago as a teenager. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think she worked at the spa," Trump said. "I think so. I think that was one of the people. He stole her, and by the way, she had no complaints about us, as you know, none whatsoever." White House communications director Steven Cheung said in a statement last week that Trump booted Epstein from Mar-a-Lago "for being a creep. Epstein died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019 while he was awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges. Trump and his administration have faced growing pressure in recent weeks, including from within his MAGA base, to release more files related to Epstein. Trump, who previously shared conspiracy theories about Epstein, has sought to tamp down the scrutiny by saying the story is "boring" and denouncing supporters focused on the issue. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he was not seeking a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, but added that he may visit China at Xi's invitation, which Trump said had been extended. "I may go to China, but it would only be at the invitation of President Xi, which has been extended. Otherwise, no interest!," Trump said on Truth Social. Aides to Trump and Xi have discussed a potential meeting between the leaders during a trip by the U.S. president to Asia later this year, sources previously told Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A trip would be the first face-to-face encounter between the men since Trump's second term in office, at a time when trade and security tensions between the two superpower rivals remain elevated. While plans for a meeting have not been finalized, discussions on both sides of the Pacific have included a possible Trump stopover around the time of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea or talks on the sidelines of the October 30-November 1 event, the people said. The third round of U.S.-China trade talks taking place in Stockholm this week may lay the groundwork ahead of a leaders' summit in the autumn, analysts say. A new flare-up of tariffs and export controls would likely impact any plans for a meeting with Xi. (Reporting by Ismail Shakil in Ottawa; Editing by Jacqueline Wong and Lincoln Feast.) Donald Trump has said that real starvation is taking place in Gaza, in a direct rebuke to Benjamin Netanyahus denial of a humanitarian crisis in the enclave. The US president called for Israel to find a way to bring an end to the war in Gaza as he discussed efforts to boost aid deliveries to the region, declaring that the US would help get the kids fed. Israel "has a lot of responsibility" for what is happening in Gaza and needs to make sure they get the food, the US president said. "We want to help," he added, stating that he and Mr Netanyahu were working on various plans. British prime minister Keir Starmer and US president Donald Trump meet for bilateral talks at Trump Turnberry golf club on July 28 (Getty Images) On Sunday, Mr Netanyahu said that accusations that Israel is conducting a campaign of starvation in Gaza were a bold faced lie, in an extraordinary denial of the growing humanitarian crisis in the enclave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Palestinian health officials said a further 14 people had died from malnutrition-related causes on Monday. It brings the total to 147 since October 2023, including 88 children. Most of these deaths have come in recent weeks. Speaking from the steps of Trump Turnberry in Scotland, where he was greeting UK prime minister Sir Keir Starmer, the US president said he had told Israel to bring the war to an end in a different way, adding that the Israeli government has to end it. The Israeli military said on Sunday it would suspend operations daily from 10am until 8pm in parts of central and northern Gaza, including al-Mawasi, Deir el-Balah and Gaza City, and promised to open aid corridors from 6am to 11pm to let in food and medical supplies. Humanitarian aid is airdropped to Palestinians over the central Gaza Strip as seen from Khan Younis (Abdel Kareem Hana/AP photo) (AP) Britain, along with France and Germany, has criticised Israel for "withholding essential humanitarian assistance" as hunger spreads in Gaza. Over the weekend, Sir Keir said the UK will take part in efforts led by Jordan to airdrop aid - which began on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Palestinian health officials said the Israeli military had killed at least 63 people across Gaza just hours after declaring daily pauses in operations to facilitate the passage of humanitarian aid. His comments came one day after Netanyahu had claimed there is no starvation in Gaza, a claim which flies in the face of assessments by aid groups, medics, the UN, and most countries worldwide. Mr Trump made clear his belief that there was significant starvation in Gaza. There is real starvation in Gaza, the US president said, adding that the images and reports emerging from the enclave cannot be faked. (Reuters) Asked if he agreed with the Israeli leaders remarks about concerns of mass starvation in Gaza being overstated, he said: "I don't know. I mean, based on television, I would say not particularly because those children look very hungry." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sir Keir, standing beside him, added: "I think people in Britain are revolted at seeing what they are seeing on their screens. Mr Trump said the US would work with other countries to provide more humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza, including food and sanitation. US authorities will set up food centres" with no fences or boundaries to ease access, he said, without offering details of how these food centres would work or what they would look like. He said it had been difficult to deal with Hamas in recent days after ceasefire negotiations collapsed over the weekend - but that discussions were still the best way for Israel to secure the release of hostages from Gaza. Trump met Sir Keir and his wife, Victoria, on the steps of Turnberry (Reuters) Mr Trump declined to take a position on Frances announcement that it would recognise Palestinian statehood, which generated outrage from Israel and its allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier in the day, the German government - Israels staunchest ally in Europe - said it is prepared to increase the pressure on Israel if progress towards feeding starving Gazans is not made. "In principle we are prepared to take further steps, which is also the purpose of this afternoon's security meeting," a government spokesperson said, referring to a meeting of the German security cabinet. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Dr. Priscilla Duran-Luciano Precision medicine promises to tailor health care to the individual. But what happens when entire communities are left out of the data that drives that tailoring? When I embarked on cardiovascular epidemiology research, I never expected that my findings would cross the border of precision medicine. Let alone did I expect a rare heart mutation to show up so clearly in the community I belong to: Hispanic/Latinos of Dominican background. What came initially as a shock quickly became an anchor for my commitment to advancing precision medicine in communities like my own, where risk is real, but recognition has been absent. As a Latina physician scientist in training, I've spent the past couple of years studying the intersection of cardiovascular risk with genetics, race, and health disparities in Hispanic/Latino populations from the community. Yet even I was surprised by what we uncovered. In a population-based cohort of over 12,000 US Hispanic/Latino adults, we found that a rare mutation in the transthyretin (TTR) gene, known as Val122Ile, was disproportionately present among Hispanic/Latinos of Dominican background. The research is published in the journal JACC: Advances. This variant is a well-established cause of hereditary transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy or hereditary cardiac amyloidosis, a progressive and underdiagnosed condition that leads to heart failure and can be fatal if not treated early. Historically, Val122Ile has been studied almost exclusively in African American populations. That makes sense since this variant is more common in people of West African ancestry. But what many don't realize is that Hispanic/Latino populations are genetically admixed, meaning their ancestry may include African, Amerindian, and European roots in varying proportions at the same time. This complexity in the genetic ancestral makeup of Hispanic/Latinos often goes unmeasured or misunderstood. In our study, we found that individuals with higher African genetic ancestry were significantly more likely to carry the Val122Ile mutation, and those happened to be Hispanic/Latinos of Dominican descent. Among all Hispanic/Latino subgroups, Dominican adults had the highest prevalence of the mutation, about 2.6%. This is 10 times higher than other Hispanic/Latino subgroups in our study, but very close to the 3.0% Val122Ile prevalence among African Americans in the US. Importantly, this was the first population-based study to examine Val122Ile in community-dwelling Hispanic/Latino adults. That distinction matters. Until now, we had no population-level data showing that a large and growing subgroup in the U.S. may be silently carrying a life-threatening genetic risk for cardiac amyloidosis. Worse, these individuals are likely not being screened for it because current clinical guidelines don't account for ancestry-informed risk in Hispanics/Latinos. Even more concerning, most physicians still don't associate cardiac amyloidosis with Hispanic/Latino populations at all, let alone with Dominicans. Until now. This is where precision medicine comes in, and where it still falls short. Precision medicine is often described as the future of health care: a way to individualize treatment based on a person's genetics, environment, and lifestyle. But for that vision to work, the data that informs it must reflect the full spectrum of human diversity. If certain groups, such as Hispanics/Latinos, are not adequately represented in both genomic research and clinical trials or during drug development studies, they may not benefit from the diagnostics, treatments, or policies that emerge from those precision medicine efforts. Likewise, the tools designed to personalize care may simply not apply or might not perform as effectively for these populations. In our study, we were fortunate to use data from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL), one of the largest and most diverse cohorts of Hispanic/Latino adults in the United States, and a cohort that avoids treating Hispanic/Latinos as a monolith by disaggregating them into distinct heritage groups. This level of granularity allowed us to go beyond general ethnic categories and look at how continental genetic ancestry (African, European, Amerindian) influences genetic risk for cardiac amyloidosis. Our findings ultimately challenge the notion of a monolithic cardiac amyloidosis risk profile among Hispanic/Latino individuals and highlight the role of ancestry in genetic screening among highly admixed populations. What we found was both powerful and troubling: a real-world example of how a person's ancestry (not just their race or ethnicity label) can reveal a hidden risk, and how a lack of awareness could delay or deny life-saving care. Hereditary cardiac amyloidosis is often missed because its symptoms resemble other more common forms of heart failure. But without early recognition and targeted treatment, the condition progresses rapidly and is often fatal. Unlike many cardiac diseases, cardiac amyloidosis is now treatable with new drug developments, but only if caught in time. That's the hopeful part. New therapies for cardiac amyloidosis are now available, including TTR-stabilizing medications and non-invasive imaging tools like technetium pyrophosphate scans. These advances can dramatically improve outcomes. But they only help when physicians know who to screen, and why. That means we need to start screening smarter: based on ancestry, family history, and awareness of population-level risk in admixed communities. Our study isn't the final word. It's a starting point. We still need more data. We still need clinical guidelines that reflect genetic diversity within Hispanic/Latino populations. We need to train clinicians to think about cardiac amyloidosis in patients they may not have previously considered at risk. While more research is needed to determine whether Hispanic/Latino individuals with high African ancestry are more likely to develop overt heart failure from hereditary transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy later in life (when the Val122Ile mutation most commonly manifests), identifying non-modifiable genetic risk factors like Val122Ile is a critical step. It opens the door to earlier detection, improved understanding of disease pathways, and more equitable prevention efforts among diverse populations. I hope our findings serve as a call to action for researchers, clinicians, and health systems alike. Precision medicine isn't just about customizing care to the individual. It's also about making sure that all individuals, regardless of their background, are seen, studied, and included in the science that guides care in the first place. This story is part of Science X Dialog, where researchers can report findings from their published research articles. Visit this page for information about Science X Dialog and how to participate. More information: Priscilla Duran-Luciano et al, Prevalence and Phenotype of Transthyretin Val122Ile Variant in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos, JACC: Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.jacadv.2025.102034 Dr. Priscilla Duran-Luciano is a postdoctoral research fellow in cardiovascular epidemiology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and a physician-scientist in training. Her work focuses on precision prevention of cardiovascular disease and heart failure, particularly among U.S. Hispanic/Latino populations, communities disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease and underrepresented in genomic research. Her research bridges traditional risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and kidney disease) with emerging genetic markers, including lipoprotein(a) and transthyretin mutations, to identify ancestry-informed risk in different populations in the US. Her research and national service contribute to the development of equitable, ancestry-based screening strategies supporting public health efforts to improve early detection of cardiovascular disease and reduce the national burden of chronic diseases across the US. By Nandita Bose and Andrea Shalal (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that the United States would start imposing tariffs and other measures on Russia "10 days from today" if Moscow showed no progress toward ending its more than three-year-long war in Ukraine. Trump first announced on Monday that he was shortening the initial 50-day deadline he set a month ago for action from Moscow, and mentioned a new deadline of 10 to 12 days. On Tuesday, he told reporters he had not heard a response from Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said he was not worried about the potential impact of Russian sanctions on the oil market or prices, vowing to boost domestic oil production to offset any impact. "I don't know if it's going to affect Russia, because (Russian President Vladimir Putin) wants to, obviously, probably keep the war going," Trump said. "But we're going to put on tariffs and the various things that you put on." The U.S. president, who has in the past spoken about having a good relationship with Putin, has grown increasingly frustrated with Moscow's refusal to agree to a ceasefire. The fresh deadline suggests Trump is prepared to move forward on his threat of sanctions, after previously hesitating on doing so. Speaking in Scotland on Monday, he threatened sanctions on both Russia and buyers of its exports - also known as secondary sanctions - unless progress is made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told reporters that he raised the issue of secondary sanctions with Chinese officials during two days of bilateral talks this week. He said he told Chinese officials that Beijing could face high tariffs if it continued its Russian oil purchases. In a post on X, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, a close ally of Putin, said Trump was playing "a game of ultimatums" that could lead to a war involving the United States. Trump, who is also struggling to achieve a peace deal in Gaza, has touted his role in ending conflicts between India and Pakistan as well as Rwanda and Congo. Before returning to the White House in January, Trump campaigned on a promise to end Russia's conflict with Ukraine in a day. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal and Nandita Bose; Editing by Nia Williams) Editor's note: The article was updated with comments by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal for Suspilne. U.S. President Donald Trump said on July 29 that tariffs on Russia would take effect in 10 days if the Kremlin did not agree to stop the war, according to an audio published by the White House. The tariffs mentioned by Trump are expected to be secondary sanctions on countries that buy Russian oil, gas and other products, such as China and India. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ten days from today. And then we're gonna put on tariffs and stuff," Trump said in response to a reporter's question before boarding Air Force One. "I don't know if its gonna affect Russia, because he (Russian President Vladimir Putin) wants to obviously probably keep the war going, but we're gonna put tariffs and various things." The remarks follow Trump's earlier ultimatum to Putin on July 14, when he warned that the United States would impose "severe" tariffs of up to 100% if Russia failed to agree to a peace deal in Ukraine within 50 days. Trump said on July 28 that he was no longer willing to wait that long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's no reason in waiting," he said. "It's 50 days, I wanted to be generous, but we just don't see any progress being made. Trump voiced frustration with the Kremlin. We thought we had that settled numerous times, and then President Putin goes out and starts launching rockets into some city like Kyiv and kills a lot of people in a nursing home or whatever," he said. When asked whether he still intended to meet with Putin, Trump replied, "I'm not so interested in talking anymore. He talks with such nice conversations, such respectful and nice conversations, and then people died the following night." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a press briefing on July 29 following Trump's announcement U.S. State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce was asked about his reasoning for moving up the deadline. She replied, "He has been patient... and that may have been misinterpreted by some people... The time for misinterpretation is now over." Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal urged Trump to move even faster with the sanctions, saying that Putin does not deserve additional time. In comments to Ukrainian broadcaster Suspilne, Blumenthal again called for the adoption of a bill he co-authored with Republican Senator Lindsey Graham that would impose 500% secondary tariffs on Russian oil. Responding to the changed deadline, Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chair of Russia's Security Council, accused Trump of pushing the two countries closer to direct confrontation. "Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country," he wrote on X on July 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite Trump's warnings, Russia has continued its drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian cities, and offensives remain active on multiple fronts. Read also: Trumps peace push falters in both Ukraine and the Middle East for similar reasons Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. By Andrea Shalal and Nandita Bose (Reuters) -Donald Trump said on Tuesday the Wall Street Journal and its billionaire owner Rupert Murdoch want to settle the U.S. president's defamation lawsuit against the newspaper. On July 18, Trump sued the Journal and its owners, including Murdoch, over a story, which said Trump's name was on a birthday greeting for late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, that included a sexually suggestive drawing and a reference to shared secrets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I've been treated badly by the Wall Street Journal. I would have assumed that Rupert Murdoch controls it, but, you know, maybe does, maybe doesn't," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. "They are talking to us about doing something but we'll see what happens. Maybe they would like us to drop that, so we'll see ... yeah, they're having, they want to settle it," he said, adding, "when I get treated unfairly, I do things about it." Trump's lawsuit called the alleged birthday greeting "fake" and said the Journal published its article to harm the president's reputation. In a court filing on Monday, Trump asked a U.S. court to order a swift deposition for Murdoch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for Dow Jones, the parent company of the Wall Street Journal, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A lawyer for Murdoch and the Journal deferred comment to Dow Jones. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal in Edinburgh, Scotland and Nandita Bose in Washington, Additional reporting by Helen Coster and Luc Cohen; Editing by Alistair Bell and Nick Zieminski) US President Donald Trump is in the UK, and if theres one thing he always has, is a lot of opinions. The President is expected to go back to the UK for a formal state visit with King Charles in September, but for now, he hosted a press conference with Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland. And during it, he had a lot of good things to say about the Royal Family, including the King. But there was one particular comment people are interpreting as a dig at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Being with Charles, Camilla and everybody, Ive got to know because of four years [as President] and now six months, President Trump said. Ive got to know a lot of the family members. They are great people. They are really great people. So far, so good. But then he added. More from StyleCaster Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Here are the celebrities who support Donald Trump And in that sense, I think the UK is very lucky. You could have people that werent great people. I dont know if I can say that, but you could have people that werent. For most people, it was obvious who he was likely referring to. Social media even had users saying things like, I love the shade President Trump throws at Prince Harry & Meghan Markle. President Trumps comment comes after Prince Harry appeared to make a dig at Trump during the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games back in February, as he talked about weak moral character in the world. His wife, Meghan Markle, went even further in her criticism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a 2016 appearance on Comedy Centrals The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore, Markle referred to Trump as divisive and branded him misogynistic during a 2016 appearance on Comedy Centrals The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore. Trumps response was to call her nasty. Recent reports indicate King Charles is worried about the upcoming visit. The Daily Beast reported the King is very concerned that the President could go on about immigration during his state visit in September. Trumps recent comments about the matter during his time in Scotland were: You better get your act together or youre not going to have Europe anymore. Youve got to stop this horrible invasion that is happening to Europe, many countries in Europe, adding, This immigration is killing Europe. According to a source close to the King, Charles has spent his entire life promoting tolerance and compassion. He will be appalled by what Trump said on Friday, which seems to be entirely driven by his domestic agenda, and will be very concerned about the possibility of a repeat of Trumps outburst in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Precautions are reportedly being taken to avoid this, a civil servant confirmed to the outlet. Parliament is not sitting, so he wont be making an inflammatory speech to MPs. But, of course, he will make a speech and propose toasts at the banquet in his honor. Usually, these speeches are ceremonial diplomacy of the highest order and honor the relationship between the two nations. The one group of people Trump seems to respect is the British royal family, so we will just have to hope for the best. Best of StyleCaster Sign up for Stylecaster's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) President Donald Trump remains in Scotland meeting with Britains prime minister and discussing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. He also faced more questions about his past connection with Jeffrey Epstein. President Trump says he never set foot on Epsteins island as he faces new scrutiny over old connections, but while in Scotland the president says his focus is on trade and security. President Trump said hes now giving Russia just days, not weeks, to reach a peace agreement in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im going to make a new deadline of about ten, 10 or 12 days from today, said Trump. On Gaza the president said hes working with European allies to set up food centers to help starving children. I think we could, do our very best to alleviate what is an awful situation at the moment, said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. As the president tries to turn the page, questions about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein continue to grow. Bill Clinton went there, supposedly, 28 times. never had the privilege of going to his island. And I did turn it down. But a lot of people in Palm Beach were invited to his island, said Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it comes to Ghislaine Maxwell the woman the Trump administration is interested in speaking to, lawmakers on Capitol Hill say her credibility is suspect. The deputy attorney general visited Maxwell to interview her in prison last week. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. LAST WEEK, THE SUPREME COURTS cadre of six reliably pro-Trump justices indulged his latest claim to presidential prerogative. The Court allowed him to fire the Democratic appointees to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, even though, when Congress created the agency, it specified that its members had to include individuals from both parties and that they would hold terms of seven years. In regularly voting in favor of President Trumpoften in extraordinary interventions that short-circuit traditional judicial processesthose six justices are racking up a rap sheet of constitutional abuses of staggering import. Most appalling was the textually unfounded 2024 decision creating immunity for a president to commit federal crimes. But so much more followed. In the term that closed out last month, the pro-Trump majorityover the passionate but impotent objections of three justicessummarily overturned the ninety-year-old precedent that had upheld the authority of Congress to create bipartisan and independent federal regulatory agencies to protect the health and safety of the American public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Court has repeatedly brushed aside lower courts efforts to protect the livelihoods of thousands of career public servants whom Trumps erstwhile chum Elon Musk arranged to have thrown out on the street with little warning. Not content with sustaining the most bombastic assertions of presidential prerogative, the majority even emasculated the power of federal judges to enjoin such concededly unconstitutional action. In perhaps the cruelest pattern of indulging presidential brutality, the majority has consistently licensed the Trump administration to treat thousands of human beings like cattle, to be evicted from the country and penned up and shipped off, simply because they are undocumented. In the one related decision in which the justices gave the appearance of breaking with the Trump administration to some degreeinvolving the administrations lawless treatment of Kilmar Abrego Garciathe decision was toothless and the administration ignored it. HISTORY HAS A WAY OF RECKONING with mendacity, corruption, and recklessness. Time may delay the verdict, but eventually the verdict will be returned. Donald Trump and his administration will have to face the verdict of history. And so will his six enablers on the Supreme Court who have been complicit in eroding the constitutional ideal of constrained executive power and creating a virtually omnipotent presidency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Get access to everything we do, right now, without having to pay for it, for 30 days. Then see if you like it enough to stick around. (We have a feeling youre going to like it.) Im reminded of the final scene in the Academy Awardwinning 1961 film Judgment at Nuremberg. The movie is a slightly fictionalized version of the actual trials of German judges who had acquiesced in the Nazi regimes misuse of the legal establishment to punish and brutalize their perceived enemies. I must hasten to make clear at the outset that I am not equating the decisions of the pro-Trump justices of the Supreme Court with the actions of Nazi jurists who deliberately condemned Jews and other minorities to torture and death. But the film makes a vital point about the corrosive, long-term effect of any judicial willingness to suspend the rule of law. One of the key figures is the enigmatic, formerly respected jurist Ernst Janning (a composite character played by Burt Lancaster). Shortly after being found guilty for his complicity in the use of the law as an instrument of repression, Janning asks the American judge who presided over the international tribunal (Spencer Tracy) to visit him in his cell. Janning offers a desperate cri de coeur: Judge Haywood . . . the reason I asked you to come: Those people, those millions of people. . . . I never knew it would come to that. You must believe it. You must believe it! But the American judge had seen and heard the evidence of the effects of Jannings actions along with those of his colleagues: Herr Janning, it came to that the first time you sentenced a man to death you knew to be innocent. The six pro-Trump Supreme Court justices wont someday be forced to account for the damage their decisions are inflicting on both the principles of American constitutionalism and on the lives of tens of thousands of victims of the Trump administration. They wont have to answer for the damage that will be inflicted by future presidential administrations emboldened by their decisions. It would not be realistic or appropriate to anticipate the justices hauled before some tribunal to answer for their rulings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rather, the verdict will come, as it more often does, in the harsh and uncompromising light of history. Anyone familiar with the Journal of Supreme Court History, published by the Supreme Court Historical Society, or with countless legal and historical textbooks and scholarly articles, knows that, eventually, the justices who join in hateful and destructive decisions suffer the damnatio memoriae long after they have left this earthly scene. Get 30 day free trial A handful of examples suffices. Most infamous, of course, is Chief Justice Roger Taneys decision in the Dred Scott case, holding that black persons have no rights that whites need to respect. Decades later, the Courts Four Horsemen of the New Deal era, in trying to frustrate social and economic policies intended to protect the poor and powerless, came to symbolize the forces of entrenched judicial reaction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And the various decisions by a divided Supreme Court upholding the exclusion or detention of Japanese-American citizens have forever tarnished the reputations of the justices who authorized that presidential repression. As Chief Justice John Roberts himself has grudgingly acknowledged, those decisions have been overruled in the court of history. The six members of the current Court who regularly vote to sustain President Trumps most aggressive assertions of unbridled presidential power will find themselves listed on the same rolls of infamy that include the names of their predecessors from those earlier misguided cases. That prospect of eventual historical repudiation is small comfort for those of us living through the reality of the Trump years. The damage is being done now, to real people. The justices actions threaten to unleash even more dangerous assertions of unchecked presidential arrogance, which it may take decades to rein inif it ever can be reined in. The six justices who make up the pro-Trump voting bloc enjoy life tenure and absolute immunity from liability for the harm that they cause. Equipped with those protections, they just seem not to care how history will judge them. What a shame. Share President Trump is making it harder and harder for international students and immigrants to pursue higher education in the U.S. Dreamers, foreign students seeking visas and potentially even those looking to work in the country after graduation have all found themselves caught in the crossfire as Trump seeks to curb immigration while also cracking down on colleges and universities. It certainly did strike me that universities kept coming up as a very attractive target, and as a place where a lot of things that might not be really noticeable for another few years are becoming noticeable just in the scope of a few months, said Dara Lind, a senior fellow at the American Immigration Council. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most recent Trump administration action came against Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients, those who came to the country undocumented as children who are allowed to renew their status every two years to avoid deportation. The Education Department announced last week it was investigating five universities for scholarship programs they have for DACA recipients, arguing the policies are unfair to U.S. citizens. As we mark President Trumps historic six months back in the White House, we are expanding our enforcement efforts to protect American students and lawful residents from invidious national origin discrimination of the kind alleged here, said Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor. Foreign students coming to the U.S. now must go through a new social media check when applying for a visa, which has resulted in individuals purging their online accounts of any information that could be considered controversial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For those who have been studying in the U.S. over the past six months, life has been a whirlwind. Thousands were taken off the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), a reporting system that gives information about international students to the Department of Homeland Security then later reinstated after an uproar. Multiple students and faculty have been arrested and targeted for deportation after participating in pro-Palestinian demonstrations, with the State Department alleging they pose a risk to U.S. foreign policy. Most of the individuals have been released from custody but are still facing deportation trials. I think they decided to target universities, particularly after the campus protests that happened in the previous year, and theyve been looking for different leverage points to be able to force the universities to act in a way that Trump officials want them to act, said Stuart Anderson, executive director for the National Foundation for American Policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One point of leverage has been research funds, because that involves a large amount of money. But another part, another part of that leverage has been international student policy, because its something that the federal government does have power over, Anderson added. Advocates argue universities need to be willing to step up and fight back, despite the risk of federal funding pauses that have fallen on multiple institutions. We need to leverage all the levers that we have at our disposal, everything from comment letters when there are proposed rules, to legal action when thats appropriate, to really understanding how we navigate these different, evolving and complicated immigration policies in a way that continues our compliance with the law and support our students, said Miriam Feldblum, president and CEO of the Presidents Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration. Its not one type of actions that we need to take. We need to be attuned and nimble to take a variety of actions in order to support our campuses and communities, Feldblum added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The White House did not immediately respond to The Hills request for comment. International students who are at universities specifically targeted by the Trump administration, such as Harvard and Columbia, have even larger concerns. The administration tried to take away Harvards ability to enroll foreign students, though the courts have so far rejected that move. The federal government has not given up, however, and launched an additional investigation into Harvards compliance with enrolling foreign students. Separately, Columbia last week said it would in the future tell the Trump administration if an international student is expelled, one of a list of reforms to which the school agreed in order to get federal funds unfrozen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administration has already identified universities particularly a few elite universities as individual targets for its culture war. That going after Columbia, going after Harvard in a lot of respects, theyve already identified that these are battles that they want to pick and that they want to have publicity in picking on them, said Lind. Advocates worry the Trump administration will also seek to end a program that allows international students to work for a year in the U.S. after they graduate or require foreign students to apply for extensions if their studies take longer than originally predicted. You would get, eventually, hundreds or thousands of extensions a year, potentially and it would discourage international students from coming to United States, particularly if the extensions were not approved easily or regularly or if it was going to interfere with people being able to study or continue to study, Anderson said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (NewsNation) President Donald Trump is celebrating his recent trade deal victories as he returns from a four-day trip to Scotland, where the deals with the European Union and the United Kingdom were discussed. After two days of trade talks in Stockholm, the U.S. and China have agreed to another extension of a tariff pause. Specifics on that deal have yet to be released. Trump told NewsNation he spoke with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about the meeting, and will decide on approving the measure on Wednesday. We just signed a very big deal with the European Union, but also with the United Kingdom, Trump said. The deal with the U.K. was the week before, and its a very big deal and a great deal for the country and everybody. Theyve been trying to get it done for 12 years, and we finally got it done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maxwell demands immunity after subpoena from House Oversight Committee The trade deal between the U.S. and E.U. includes a 15% tariff rate set on imported goods, and tariffs on imported steel and aluminum will remain set at 50%. The newest tariff rate will affect things like auto parts, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors. European and Japanese automakers now have a better deal than domestic brands here in the U.S., facing lower tariffs than cars from Detroit automakers, which face 25% tariffs if the cars are built in Mexico. That deals a blow to Detroit. Aircraft parts, certain drugs and some agricultural products will not be subject to any tariffs after both nations agreed to zero for zero tariffs. The E.U. also agreed to buy a significant amount of military equipment from the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is looking to strike more trade deals before the Friday deadline when tariffs are set to take effect. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the deadline will not be moved again, and Trump will be sending letters to other countries on what the tariff rates will be sometime this week. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. In a stunning move, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday proposed to repeal its landmark 2009 finding that greenhouse gas emissions endanger public health. The proposal would also revoke the standards the agency has set for greenhouse gas emissions from all motor vehicles. The so-called endangerment finding is a formal determination affirming that planet-warming greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane pose a threat to human health and the environment. It forms the legal and scientific basis for regulating these emissions under the Clean Air Act and is derived from decades of expert research and analysis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If it is reversed, many standards that rely on it could crumble leaving the auto industry and other polluting sectors free to emit greenhouse gases without limits. But experts and state regulators say it could also represent a golden opportunity for California to set a national example, as the move may open the door for stronger regulations at the state level. "Here in California, we recognize the science, we recognize the need for urgency, and we plan to continue doing the important work that will protect the public," Liane Randolph, chair of the California Air Resources Board, told The Times. Read more: EPA seeks to roll back regulations that limit greenhouse gas emissions from power plants The plan marks the latest in a string of actions by the Trump administration to reverse years of climate-change policy including the EPA's proposed repeal of power plant emissions standards in June, and its recent affront on California's ability to set strict tailpipe emission standards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 2007 Supreme Court case, Massachusetts vs. EPA, affirmed that greenhouse gases qualify as air pollutants under the Clean Air Act and that the EPA has the authority to regulate them. The finding became the legal foundation for regulating carbon emissions from vehicles, power plants and other polluting sectors and led to the formation of the endangerment finding two years later. A chorus of advocates and experts on Tuesday condemned the administration's plans to reverse this finding as dangerous and shortsighted. Independent researchers around the world have long concluded that carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases released by the burning of fossil fuels are dangerously warming the planet and contributing to worsening wildfires, extreme heat, floods and other natural disasters. The effect on California is unclear at this point. Some experts said the EPA's proposal could make it harder for California to achieve its climate goals particularly because the effects of greenhouse gas emissions do not respect state or national borders. "What these actions are going to mean is that there are more emissions, which causes more extreme weather, which ultimately harms the residents of California as well as the residents of the United States writ large," said Kathy Harris, director of the clean vehicles program at the nonprofit Natural Resources Defense Council. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By in effect creating the weakest possible standard, Harris said, the EPA is attempting to undermine California and other states authority to set stronger rules and "taking away the levers that states might have to be able to protect their citizens and their residents." The Environmental Protection Agency has one job, which is to protect the environment, and theyre giving up on that responsibility, she said. Read more: Trump signs laws to kill California auto emission standards. California AG sues However, other experts said California is uniquely positioned to weather the storm. The state has notoriously struggled with smog and air pollution and has been a leader in adopting aggressive environmental regulations far exceeding national standards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In fact, much of the state's ambitious work around clean air and climate predates the development of the endangerment finding and even the Clean Air Act. For example, California implemented the nation's first tailpipe emissions standards in the 1960s and became the first state to pass a law requiring greenhouse gas emissions reductions from vehicles in 2002. Randolph, of the air resources board, noted that California also led the nation with 2002's Renewables Portfolio Standard requiring utilities in the state to source increasing percentages of electricity from renewable energy sources, and 2006's Assembly Bill 32, which mandated the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 a goal the state met four years of ahead of schedule. Senate Bill 100, enacted in 2018, further pioneered the clean energy space by mandating that all retail electricity sales in the state be powered by carbon-free resources by 2045, she said. These items fall under state authority and would not be affected by a repeal of the endangerment finding, Randolph said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legal experts anticipated that if Donald Trump were reelected, he would drastically roll back federal greenhouse-gas regulation. "With this proposal, the Trump EPA is proposing to end 16 years of uncertainty for automakers and American consumers," read a statement from EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. "In our work so far, many stakeholders have told me that the Obama and Biden EPAs twisted the law, ignored precedent, and warped science to achieve their preferred ends and stick American families with hundreds of billions of dollars in hidden taxes every single year. " Zeldin said the endangerment finding has been used to justify over $1 trillion in regulations that have throttled consumer choice. Ann Carlson, director of the Emmett Institute on Climate Change and the Environment at UCLA, said that although some may see the EPA's move as another attempt to champion the fossil fuel industry, the decision could backfire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By ceding federal authority to regulate greenhouse gases, the Trump administration could unintentionally relinquish regulatory powers to California and other progressive states to carry out their own climate agenda, Carlson said. "If the EPA is saying greenhouse gases aren't supposed to be regulated under the Clean Air Act, then that means they can be regulated under traditional state authority," Carlson said. "So this could have a silver lining for California. It would undoubtedly be litigated, but it may give California a strong legal argument that it can, in fact, go ahead and regulate greenhouse gases from vehicles." Others said similarly that EPA's move might also have a galvanizing effect. "They're proposing to walk away from all protections for public health and against these really damaging impacts of climate change," said Peter Zalzal, associate vice president with the nonprofit Environmental Defense Fund. "But states have always had an important role in regulating this pollution, and I think that role is even more pronounced in the environment were living in." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: How the EPA's environmental about-face could upend California's climate efforts That said, California is not immune to decisions made by the federal government. Fifty years ago, California asked for and received EPA waivers allowing it to set stricter tailpipe emissions than those mandated by the federal government. The waivers formed the foundation of the state's nation-leading ban on the sale of gas-powered cars in California by 2035. The Trump administration in June took the unprecedented step of revoking those waivers, which prompted an immediate lawsuit from California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta, who argued that the move was unlawful. Meanwhile, Trump administration officials and auto industry representatives celebrated the EPA's latest announcement Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The trucking industry supports cleaner, more efficient technologies, but we need policies rooted in real-world conditions. We thank the Trump Administration for returning us to a path of common sense, so that we can keep delivering for the American people as we continue to reduce our environmental impact," read a statement from American Trucking Assns. President and Chief Executive Chris Spear. "Todays announcement is a monumental step toward returning to commonsense policies that expand access to affordable, reliable, secure energy and improve quality of life for all Americans," said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. The EPA proposal will undergo a public comment period and review process before being finalized. Multiple environmental groups said they are prepared to challenge the rule in court. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Donald Trump wishes he knew how to quit Jeffrey Epstein. The president has repeatedly professed a desire to move on from questions about whether hes included in Department of Justice files outlining the investigation of Epsteins sex trafficking charges. Yet Trump has provided seemingly conflicting information about his relationship with Epstein helping sustain a scandal that has hounded him more than any other, even though his friendship with Epstein ended more than two decades ago and Epstein died in a Manhattan jail cell six years ago. The White House has long insisted Trump and Epsteins friendship ended after the president kicked Epstein out of Mar-a-Lago at some point for being a creep, although previous reports suggested their friendship ended years earlier, when Trump outbid Epstein for a piece of property in Palm Beach, Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, when speaking with reporters who traveled with him to the United Kingdom on Monday and Tuesday, gave yet another explanation for their break. He stole people that worked for me, Trump told reporters on Monday during a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. I said, Dont ever do that again. And he did it again. And I threw him out of the place. Persona non grata. I threw him out and that was it. On Tuesday, aboard Air Force One, Trump suggested it was possible Virginia Giuffre, a prominent Epstein accuser who died of suicide last year, was among the employees Epstein stole. In 2000, Epstein confidante Ghislaine Maxwell recruited Giuffre to be Epsteins masseuse while Giuffre was working at Mar-a-Lago, leading to years of abuse. I think she worked at the spa, Trump said. I think so. I think that was one of the people. He stole her. He added: She had no complaints about us, as you know. None whatsoever. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every new comment Trump makes about Epstein leads to another series of stories illustrated by the many photos of the president with his former friend. The text often contains Trumps creepy praise, from 2002, for the deceased sexual predator: Hes a lot of fun to be with. It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side. The stories might also note Trump repeatedly flew on Epsteins jet, though they usually dont mention that Trump and Epstein have both been represented by Alan Dershowitz or that Alex Acosta, the federal prosecutor who first left Epstein off the hook, wound up as a Cabinet official in Trumps first term. Its not news that Trump and Epstein were friends. It wasnt even news back in 2015 when Trump first launched his political career. But Epsteins death in Trumps first term created a new layer of conspiracy theories that laid the groundwork for whats happening now. Pam Bondi, Trumps attorney general, said in February she had Epsteins mythical client list sitting on her desk, building hype for the unmasking of exactly the sort of elite sex cabal prophesied by the leading lights of QAnon. The Justice Departments subsequent statement this month that theres actually no client list, no blackmail scheme, nobody else to charge with crimes and that no further disclosure would be appropriate or warranted was a shocking reversal even by Trump standards. Trump's answers about why he stopped being friends with Epstein while traveling to the United Kingdom are providing more questions than answers. via Associated Press Trumps handling of the Epstein investigation is now among his least popular actions in public surveys, even if members of both parties are skeptical that it will significantly change how Americans feel about Trump. An Economist/YouGov poll released Tuesday found 61% of Americans disapproved of his handling of the Epstein files. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The same poll also found a plurality of Americans now believe Trump was somehow involved in Epsteins crimes: 46% believe he was, while just 32% believe he wasnt. Another 23% arent sure either way. (Trumps name being in the files, which likely encompass troves of court records and private data seized by the FBI, would not by itself indicate wrongdoing.) Trump has previously talked about Epsteins pursuit of Mar-a-Lago staff leading to their falling out, but in a way that emphasized Epsteins actual bad behavior rather than merely complaining about losing employees. In 2007, amid the fallout over Epsteins first arrest, the New York Post reported that Mar-a-Lago had banned Epstein from the club, though the story didnt say when the ban was imposed. He would use the spa to try to procure girls. But one of them, a masseuse about 18 years old, he tried to get her to do things, a person identified as a source told the Post that year. The story added that Epstein himself denied he was banned and said he had been recently invited to an event there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sam Nunberg, a former Trump aide, told The Washington Post in 2019, after Epstein had been arrested on federal charges, that he had quizzed the president about his relationship with Epstein back in 2014, when Trump was considering a White House bid. Trump told Nunberg that Epstein had recruited a young woman who worked at Mar-a-Lago to give him massages, the Post reported. Nunberg said Trump told him he issued the edict against Epstein years before the police investigation became public. The story said the last known communication between the two men were voicemails Trump left Epstein shortly after outbidding him for an oceanfront property in November 2004, roughly four years after the time Victoria Giuffre said shed been recruited as Epsteins masseuse. The White House did not immediately respond to a question about whether it could offer a more precise timeline of the presidents split with his former friend. Republicans in Congress are not helping Trump bury the story. A handful of House Republicans have backed efforts to get at the Epstein files through legislative maneuvers and subpoenas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) started the chambers summer recess one day early last week to dodge some of the drama, he is seemingly unable to quash the surprising push led by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) to force a vote on legislation freeing the files. And three Republicans on the House Oversight Committee Reps. Brian Jack (Ga.), Scott Perry (Pa.) and Nancy Mace (S.C.) joined the committees Democrats last week in moving to subpoena the Justice Department for the documents. And even as some Democrats worry the story is a distraction from more politically effective attacks on the GOPs unpopular domestic policy legislation, party leaders are doing their best to keep the story in the news: Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer on Tuesday called for the FBI to conduct a counterintelligence threat assessment to see if a foreign government could blackmail Trump with the contents of the Epstein files. Whatever is in the Epstein files is clearly concerning enough that Donald Trump is running scared, Schumer said on the Senate floor. If that is in fact the case, our adversaries could certainly be interested in trying to use this information to hurt America and Americans. WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Donald Trump's nominee to be U.S. ambassador to Thailand said on Tuesday he would tell Bangkok if confirmed in the post that conflicts like Thailand's recent border skirmish with Cambodia do nothing to help the Thai people or the country's alliance with Washington. Sean O'Neill, a career foreign service officer who has served twice before as a diplomat in Thailand, made the comment at his Senate confirmation hearing when asked about five days of clashes between Thailand and Cambodia that killed at least 43 people and displaced over 300,000. Thai and Cambodian leaders met in Malaysia on Monday and agreed to a ceasefire to halt their deadliest conflict in more than a decade. That agreement came after Trump warned the Thai and Cambodian leaders at the weekend that trade negotiations with the U.S. would not progress if fighting continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked what he would do to ensure that the ceasefire became a long-term peace agreement, O'Neill said: "I think the first thing I would do is to point out to Thailand, which is one of our only treaty allies in Asia, that wars like this, conflicts like this, do nothing to help their people. "They do nothing to strengthen our alliance, they do nothing to address the challenges that both of our countries face. They are just a needless waste of life and treasure." O'Neill also said Thailand should not lend legitimacy to the military government in its neighbor Myanmar. He said the State Department's position was not to encourage Myanmar to hold "sham" elections the military was looking to hold in the autumn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If confirmed, I would encourage Thailand not to recognize an election that does not include the participation of over 50% of the country, while most of the opposition leaders are in prison," he said. (Reporting by David Brunnstrom; editing by Humeyra Pamuk and Marguerita Choy) Earlier this year, the TSA officially moved forward with a high-profile change, requiring all passengers to have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification when they go through the security checkpoint at the airport. However, the TSA now seems to have a pretty significant problem with a form of identification it claims to accept. The REAL ID Act was originally passed by Congress in 2005 to set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses and identification cards. While it took about two decades to be officially implemented, the TSA officially began requiring identification that complied with REAL ID standards on May 7, 2025. For most travelers, the changes meant that they would either have to make sure their driver's license was compliant with REAL ID standards or use their passport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The TSA did list a number of alternatives, though: State-issued Enhanced Driver's License. U.S. passport. U.S. passport card. U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST). U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents. Permanent resident card. Border crossing card. An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs). HSPD-12 PIV card. Foreign government-issued passport. Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card. Transportation worker identification credential. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766). U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential. Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC). However, the TSA seems to be having a pretty significant issue with one of those forms of identification that it states complies with REAL ID standards. While a tribal ID card is recognized by the U.S. federal government and is on the TSAs list of acceptable forms of identification, The Travel highlighted several Reddit users who have reported problems using their tribal ID at the airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In many cases, the traveler is told that the tribal ID isn't valid, and the TSA agent requests another form of identification. "The last few times I have flown I have presented TSA with my federally recognized tribal ID, and have been told it isnt valid. Every time, they swipe the ID look at the screen and tell me nothing is popping up. And force me to use another ID. Per the TSA guidelines and from the tribal list, my ID should be accepted and Real ID compliant. Any recommendations or guidance here? Note: this is all for US domestic flights, no international travel/arrival," One Reddit user said in a post. It's worth noting that the TSA seemingly confirmed this problem on the "Tribal and Indigenous" page of its website, where it confirms that tribal cards are indeed an acceptable form of identification, but acknowledged that these IDs may not be able to be scanned with technology. "TSA accepts IDs from Federally recognized Tribes. If your ID cannot be scanned by technology, you will be asked for a secondary ID that can be scanned. If you do not have a second ID, your Tribal ID will be inspected manually and cross-referenced with the Federal Register." This is a valid explanation as it indicates that the problem lies with technology rather than the agency simply refusing to accept a form of identification it claims is acceptable. However, it is still a pretty major problem that the TSA and its technology seems to be unable to recognize a federally accepted form of identification that its own policies claim complies with REAL ID standards. After making such a big deal about making sure everyone complies with the new REAL ID standards just a few months ago, it's pretty baffling that the TSA seems unprepared to accept a form of identification that complies with those standards. TSA Faces a Problem With One Form of ID first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 29, 2025 WASHINGTON, DC For the second time in just over a month, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe hosted a government-to-government roundtable discussion last Monday on July 21, 2025 with Trump administration officials involved in Indian Country affairs. The first roundtable took place on June 20, 2025, at the tribes Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana. This latest meeting was held at the J.W. Marriott in Washington, D.C. Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The roundtable focused on the formation of a new Native-led coalition aimed at driving economic development and self-determination in Indian Country. Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite told the crowd of over 100 tribal leaders, government officials, lobbyists, and industry leaders that the roundtable would result in a coalition working directly with the Trump administration. He said it is a reset from how tribes have done business in the past. Pierite said that after the 2024 presidential election, he heard the president-elect speak about revitalizing Americaparticularly rural America, where many tribes are located. The more we act on his vision, the more we need to ask ourselves: Why not in Indian Country? Why not us? Why cant tribal governments be part of a stronger, more self-reliant America? Pierite asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pierite said that with so many tribal reservations and lands located in rural areas, the future of rural America cannot be shaped without tribal involvement. To our federal partners here today, your presence speaks volumes. You are not just here to listen. You're here to work alongside us, and that matters. We applaud you. We appreciate you. But presence alone is not enough. We need partnership, transparency and consistent engagement. We urge you. We urge you to move beyond consultation and toward collaboration. The future of Indian country in rural America cannot be shaped without us, Pierite said. Pierite, who hopes to see the coalition evolve into a more formal legal entity, wants to develop a mechanism that will endure beyond the current Trump administration, so that a reset isn't required every time the administration changes. To make sure our voices are heard, this effort is not about politics. This is not about Republicans or Democrats. This is not about red or blue. This is about partnership. This is about building something that outlasts any administration, any election cycle and any political climate. This is true, government-to-government engagement, and that's why coming to D.C. matters, because we must hold agencies leaders and ourselves accountable. This is about real action. This is about moving from consultation to collaboration, Pierite said about his vision for the coalition. Scott Davis, senior advisor to the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of the Interior speaking at roundtable.(Photo/Levi Rickert) Among the federal government officials were Scott Davis (Standing Rock Sioux Tribe), senior advisor to the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of the Interior; Holmes Whalen, deputy solicitor, Office of Indian Affairs, .S. Department of the Interior; Diane Cullo, assistant administrator for the Office of Native American Affairs at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA); Milo Booth, Director of Tribal Affairs, U.S. Department of Transportation; David Flute, Special Tribal Advisor on Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; and Trevor Benson, special assistant, Office of Tribal Relations, USDA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The highest ranking federal official in attendance was Scott Davis (Standing Rock), who is serving as acting Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of the Interior. He said since he began his job in March he has interacted with some 200 tribes, either in Washington or out in Indian Country. Davis said he has been concentrating on deregulation because it is too hard for tribes to get things done. Tribal leaders were given the opportunity to ask federal representatives specific questions about concerns they have with the federal government. Both tribal leaders and federal representatives agreed there is too much bureaucratic red tape that slows down progressand in some cases, even stopsprojects or programs entirely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the Q&A portion of the roundtable, federal officials were asked why the new coalition being proposed by Pierite is important to Indian Country. Below are the responses that have been edited for brevity and clarity: Diane Cullo, Assistant Administrator for the Office of Native American Affairs, U.S. Small Business Administration Because the chairman put this together, and we noticed it, for the folks who were, who did attend the Marksville event, which was about the same size as this room, it came together out of nowhere. So the interest is there about doing something different, not just meeting for being in the state, not just having a conversation with a single agency, but let us help you be successful in your own ideas and rights. Scott Davis, Exercising the Delegated Authority of the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of the Interior I see this as a stem from the other organizations that we meet with on a regular basis. I think it is great. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I once was asked who our leader was in Indian Country. Whos our Dr. King? I said we dont have one. We have tribal chairmen, chairwomen, and tribal councils. Diane Cullo, Assistant Administrator for the Office of Native American Affairs, U.S. Small Business Administration facilitating roundtable Q&A. (Photo/Levi Rickert) There's a lot of leadership in Indian Country. And some are the same, some are different, but for us to look at Indian Country as having one organization, we cant. But my point is it doesn't matter if it's this association or that committee or different Association, we're going to be there talking and strategizing. Milo Booth, Director of Tribal Affairs, U.S. Department of Transportation We're here to work with our tribal partners in any form or fashion to grow the self governance program and bring the opportunities of department transportation to the Indian country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So we want to know how we can bring those opportunities to Indian Country, whether that's in digital format, in person, in conference, or strong conferences such as this, we'll continue to do so. Trevor Benson, Special Assistant, Office of Tribal Relations, USDA The more people meet, we get together like this, and the more round tables there are, the more we get feedback. I feel like when we have meetings like this, as far as your ideas that you come up with to bring about some kind of changes that are needed, this is something that we can then relay to other officials in the Administration to take some kind of administrative action to help benefit tribe Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know that from this meeting, Chairman Pierite is going to the White House right now, I'm sure that there's going to be something that comes of that probably very beneficial. So just the more events we have like this, the better. About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net." Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net Kemal Ozdemir looked up at the bare peaks of Mount Cilo in Turkey's Kurdish majority southeast: "There were glaciers 10 years ago," he recalled under a cloudless sky. A mountain guide for 15 years, Ozdemir then turned toward the torrent carrying dozens of blocks of ice below a slope covered with grass and rocks -- a sign of glacier loss being exacerbated by global warming. "You can see that there are quite a few pieces of glacier in the water right now... the reason why the waterfalls flow lushly actually shows us how fast the ice is melting," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The glaciers of Mount Cilo, which rises to 4,135 meters in the province of Hakkari on the Iraqi border, are the second largest in the country behind those of Mount Ararat (5,137 meters ) -- 250 kilometres (155 miles) further north. As global temperatures rise amid human-caused climate change, new sections of the mountains that were once capped in ice are melting fast year after year. Turkey, which is experiencing heatwaves and drought, even registered a record temperature of 50.5C on Friday in Silopi, some 200 kilometres (120 miles) from Hakkari. "The melting process is faster than we expected. According to our research, in the last 40 years, we lost almost 50 percent of this continuous snow and ice cover in this place," said Onur Satir, a professor at Yuzuncu Yil University and specialist in geographical information systems in the eastern province of Van. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement -'No way to cover the ice'- "Some places melt faster than other places, so actually it's showing us which places must be protected but we have no opportunity to cover the whole ice area," Satir said. In recent years, several glaciers in the Alps have been covered with white tarpaulins in an attempt to delay their demise. According to the United Nations, glaciers in several regions of the world will not survive the 21st century, threatening the water supply of hundreds of millions of people. The surrounding landscape is a delight for hikers, many of whom have flocked to the Hakkari mountains since the guns fell silent in recent years in the region, where fighters from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) have long challenged the Turkish state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ongoing peace process with the PKK listed as a terror group by Turkey and its Western allies suggests that tourism will accelerate in the area, which became a national park in 2020. -'Don't walk on the ice'- But melting ice has made certain areas dangerous. In July 2023, two hikers were killed when they were swept away by a block that broke off from a glacier. "People should not walk on the ice," Ozdemir warned, voicing concerns about the safety of hikers and the preservation of glaciers. "This region is 40-50 kilometres away from the city, but there was no road in the past. Now, with the construction of the road, more vehicles are coming here and the increase in the number of people coming here actually accelerates the melting a little bit," said the 38-year-old guide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A UN report on desertification worldwide estimates that 88 percent of Turkey's territory is at risk: rainfall is expected to decrease by 30 percent by the end of the century, while temperatures are expected to rise by 5 to 6C compared to the averages recorded between 1961 and 1990. ii-rba/fo/giv UHRICHVILLE, Ohio (WJW) A Tuscarawas County man is recovering after health officials said he recently contracted the La Crosse virus. The Tuscarawas County Health Department was notified about the confirmed human case on July 17. PHOTO: Cedar Point floods amid storms, downpours The La Crosse virus is a viral disease that spreads to humans when bit by infected eastern tree hole mosquitoes, which typically reside in wooded and forested areas. Aedes triseriatus mosquito female biting on human skin (Getty Images) The patient, a 66-year-old Uhrichsville man, was hospitalized after developing viral meningitis from the disease. He has since been released and is recovering at home, the health department said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is Tuscarawas Countys first confirmed human case since 2021, but according to health officials, Ohio reports an average of 20 cases per year. La Crosse virus is rare in Ohio, and we dont want anyone to panic, said Tuscarawas County Health Commissioner Katie Seward. We are simply asking Uhrichsville area residents to be careful and talk with their medical providers about any health concerns. Woman fends off 2 grizzlies with bear spray, saving husband According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most people infected with La Crosse dont have any symptoms, but people who do may experience fever, headaches, nausea, vomiting and lethargy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Severe cases typically occur in kids under 16 years old, including symptoms like seizures, coma, paralysis and other neurological issues. The infection is deadly in less than 1% of cases, health officials said. There are no vaccines for La Crosse, health officials said, so the best way to combat the virus is to prevent mosquito bites. Why Dairy Queen cant legally call its product ice cream Residents are encouraged to use insect repellant while outdoors. They can also wear clothes that cover their skin to stay protected. In response to the confirmed case, the Tuscarawas County Health Department will be spraying for mosquitoes in Uhrichsville from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Monday, weather permitting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Learn more about the health departments mosquito control program right here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. (COLORADO SPRINGS) Two people have been charged with allegedly distributing fentanyl that led to the death of a 15-year-old girl. According to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Colorado, on June 7, 2025, officers with the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) and medical personnel responded to a report of an unresponsive teen. The teen was determined to be deceased upon crews arrival. The Attorneys Office said investigators on scene found nine blue pills with the markings M and 30 on them, wrapped in a receipt. Court documents state that a search of the victims phone revealed she agreed to meet 57-year-old Eugene Edwards at an elementary school in Colorado Springs the night before her death to buy pills. Surveillance video and license plate reader footage confirmed Edwards car was at the school that night. About an hour later, additional footage captured outside the victims home showed her smoking what appeared to be fentanyl. She died shortly after, the documents state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Attorneys Office, Edwards had multiple prior felony convictions for drug offenses, robbery, and burglary. He was arrested on June 13 after investigators found suspected fentanyl and methamphetamine in his car, including ten fentanyl pills wrapped in a receipt. During an interview with law enforcement, Edwards said he obtained the fentanyl pills that he had that evening from a woman who was later identified as 30-year-old Destiny Benjamin. Court documents further allege that cell phone records and text messages between Edwards and Benjamin outline a relationship based on the exchange of money for drugsincluding fentanyl and methamphetamine. Edwards told investigators his only current source of supply for fentanyl pills was Benjamin. She was subsequently arrested, and law enforcement seized fentanyl, methamphetamine, and a loaded handgun from her at the time of her arrest. The U.S. Attorneys Office said Benjamin told investigators she provided illegal narcotics to Edwards. Edwards and Benjamin made their initial appearance in Federal Court in Denver on Monday, July 28, where they were advised that they were being charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl resulting in death. The charge carries a potential penalty of no less than 20 years and up to life in prison, a fine of no more than $1,000,000, and no less than three years of supervised release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. KVIA ABC-7 EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) Federal prosecutors say that two El Paso hospital executives surrendered to FBI last week. Jose Huerta, 58, a CEO of two Long-Term Acute Care hospitals in El Paso, and Israel Navarro, 47, owner of one of the hospitals, are accused of an alleged pass-through healthcare billing scheme. Court documents accuse Huerta and Navarro of allegedly conspiring to submit false urine drug test insurance claims to Blue Cross Blue Shield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huertas and Navarros hospitals allegedly submitted false insurance claims to Blue Cross Blue Shield, indicating in those claims that the individuals tested were patients in their hospitals when they were not," federal prosecutors explained. "The claims further indicated that UDT samples were taken from the patients and forwarded to a lab in the Dallas area. None of this was true. Over a six-month period, Huerta and Navarro submitted $16 million dollars in claims for the laboratory testing of UDTs. The actual loss to Blue Cross Blue Shield attributed to Huertas and Navarros alleged fraud scheme totals more than $12 million." Prosecutors say Navarro, who lives in Puerto Rico and the Dallas area, voluntarily surrendered to the FBI in El Paso and made his initial court appearance on July 22. A federal magistrate then released him on a $150,000 bond. Huerta also surrendered and made his first court appearance on July 24. He was then released on a $50,000 bond. "They are each charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of wire fraud, and one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud," prosecutors explained. "If convicted, they face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. 28/22 NEWS (WBRE/WYOU) 28/22s Heres to You, Kid! shines a spotlight each week on young people doing good things, and often big things in the community. This week, two kids we previously profiled are being honored with scholarships because of their achievements in 2024. So my purpose of the project was to record every single name, date of birth, date of death, explained Aaron Girvan. We met Heres to You, Kid! recipient Aaron Girvan of Forty Fort in August 2024. He talked with 28/22 News about his Eagle Scout project, documenting nearly 1,100 graves at Forty Fort Cemetery dating back to the 1700s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aaron created a digitized map of the graveyard that helps tell the history of who is buried there. There is a couple individuals associated with the founding of the town of Forty Fort, Revolutionary War figures, and many more individuals, said Aaron. April 2024 Heres to You, Kid! recipient Nolan Wurster impressed with his passion to help his hometown fire department. I donate all my, like, birthday money and money I raise from fundraisers to Montoursville Fire Department, said Nolan. Nolan also held chili cookoffs and basket raffles to support the departments firefighting efforts. Montoursville Fire Department, in turn, made him a junior fire chief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williamsport teen earns private pilot license I get to go on parades with them and I get to ride in the trucks, and I get to go to like training and stuff, explained Nolan. Now, both Nolan and Aaron are recipients of something else: scholarships from the philanthropic non-profit, The Luzerne Foundation. I didnt think this was going to happen, said Aaron. Aaron appeared on 28/22s PA Live! for the public announcement. At The Luzerne Foundation, we try to focus on students who work well with their community and directly impacts the community, that also leaves a legacy for the community to follow, said Philanthropic Services Coordinator at the Luzerne Foundation Jessica Baab. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She says Aarons cemetery project definitely fills that bill. It took time and it was tedious, but he was determined and dedicated and hes created a really, really incredible resource, said Baab. Nolan did the same with his donations to the Montoursville Fire Department. Our first responders are often underserved in our community. Theyre always there for you, but he knew they needed funding and they needed support, and he wanted to highlight the good work they do and how important they are, said Baab. The Times Leader Book of Dreams Fund of the Luzerne Foundation provides the money for these scholarships. Times Leader publisher Kerry Miscavage says programs like Heres to You, Kid! are important to show young people doing big things in the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think it inspires other kids to, you know, maybe get off their phones, get off the computer and go out and see where they can contribute, said Miscavage. Heres to you, Aaron and Nolan. We want to point out that WBRE 28 and WYOU 22 have no involvement in the selection process or distribution of scholarship funds. If you have a kid you think should be featured on Heres to You, Kid!, send in a nomination online. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to 28/22 News. Two people were killed when a regional train collided with a car at a level crossing in north-western Germany on Tuesday, police said. A police spokesman said the two victims who died in the car were a 12-year-old boy and a 49-year-old man. The accident occurred around midday in the town of Bad Zwischenahn, a spokesman said, adding that 240 people were on board the train. The train driver suffered from shock while two passengers reported light injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement National rail operator Deutsche Bahn said the regional train was destined for Hanover, with services on the line suspended after the accident. Numerous emergency services were on the scene, police said. The incident occurred at a half-barrier level crossing. Police are investigating whether the barrier was open or closed at the time of the accident. SPRINGVILLE, Utah (ABC4) Two men in Springville were taken into custody on Monday night after they got into a verbal argument that ended with a single gunshot and a SWAT team response by Springville PD. According to court documents, the suspects, identified as Jose Rodriguez-Juarez, 39, and Erick Xavier Rocha Fabela, 36, got into a verbal argument at a home near 100 West and 100 North just before 10 p.m. Police responded to reports of the argument and, shortly after arriving, found Juarez walking toward a parked car nearby. Police say they then lost sight of Juarez, followed by hearing the sound of a gunshot before Juarez entered the home and refused to come out. A SWAT team responded to the scene, and police reported all occupants were safely evacuated and detained, including Juarez and Fabela. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Juarez allegedly admitted to drinking alcohol before getting into a physical altercation with Fabela. According to court documents, Juarez claimed Fabela brandished the gun and fired it into the air during the fight. Juarez reportedly told police that was when he went into the home for safety. Police say they found the gun hidden underneath some clothing in the home that Juarez was hiding in. When confronted about it, Juarez allegedly changed his story, saying he took possession of the gun and ran inside. Multiple witnesses also allegedly contradicted Juarezs claims, saying they heard Juarez tell Fabela that he was going to kill or hurt him before he shot one bullet toward Fabela. Fabela allegedly told police he had been using cocaine and drinking alcohol that day and had his 17-year-old son drive him to the home where the incident took place. Fabela allegedly confronted Juarez and another male, pushing one toward the ground. Springville Police reported both men had red, glossy eyes and had slurred speech. Both were then booked into the Utah County Jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fabela was booked on charges of third-degree felony endangerment of a child and misdemeanor assault, public intoxication, and drug charges. Juarez was booked on first-degree felony attempted murder, second-degree felony discharge of a firearm, second-degree felony obstruction of justice and misdemeanor public intoxication, use of a controlled substance, failure to stop at the command of law enforcement and carrying a dangerous weapon while under the influence. Courts records show both Fabela and Juarez have been ordered to be held without bail, pending a pretrial hearing. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. The night sky is illuminated by a meteor shower in Sydney, Australia, on July 28, 2022. Credit - Saverio Marfia/Getty Images Two meteor showers will hit their peak visibility on Tuesday night, lighting the skies in glowing streaks into the following morning. The Southern Delta Aquariids and the Alpha Capricornids will be active until just Aug. 12th. Tonight marks a particularly good time to look up at the starry sky and catch them, however, as the moon will only be 27% full, increasing the visibility for the showers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cosmic phenomena are precursors to the Perseids shower, considered the best meteor shower of the year according to NASA. That shower is due to hit its peak in just a few weeks, though its visibility could be affected by the moon. Meteor showers are caused by the entrance of cosmic debris into the Earths atmosphere at elevated speeds. They are best viewed on a clear night. Heres what to know. What are the Southern Delta Aquariids and Alpha Capricornids? The Southern Delta Aquariids are a meteor shower typically active for a few weeks starting from mid-July. The shower travels at a velocity of 25 miles per second, according to the American Meteor Society (AMS) and is best seen by those living further south. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They are typically difficult to spot due to their faint light, NASA reports, and most visible when the moon is not out. The Alpha Capricornids are not a particularly strong shower, and rarely have more than 5 meteors per hour. However, they are remarkable because those that are visible often have bright fireballs. If you are looking for that one spectacular event to happen during a watch session, an Alpha Capricornid may be the one that gets you the most excited, Nick Moskovitz, an astronomer with the Lowell Observatory in Arizona told NPR. That shower will be well seen by those on either side of the equator, according to the American Meteor Society (AMS). It also travels more slowly, sailing through the sky at a velocity of 14 miles per second. When and where can you see them best? Meteor showers are best seen after midnight, according to the AMS, as the darker night makes them easier to spot. That means the moons peak also affects visibility: If the moon is more than one half illuminated when meteor showers peak, they will be difficult to observe. Onlookers should also move away from the big city to avoid pollution and other light sources interfering with their view. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Southern Delta Aquariids will be best seen in the early morning hours, AMS reports. The organization says that showers can best be spotted some 30 degrees away from their radiantthe point where meteors appear to come from. The radiant point of the Southern Delta Aquariids is located within the Aquarius constellation, while the Alpha Capricornids is in the Capricornus constellation. Both are in the southern part of the sky, meaning those hoping to view the showers should move to a location with an unobstructed view of that area. Those who miss the two meteor showers can still try to observe the Perseids shower, which will hit its peak on August 12-13. Contact us at letters@time.com. Two Meteor Showers Will Be Visible TonightHere's How To See Them originally appeared on Parade. This evening, two meteor showersone fast and faint, the other slow and fierywill be putting on a show. From July 29 to 30, the Southern Delta Aquariid and Capricornids meteor showers will reach their peak, lighting up the sky with a sparkly, shimmering display. And the best places to catch the spectacle? The southern and southwestern U.S.especially states with clear, dry skies like Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Florida and Southern California. In her most fun and relatable terms, Dr. Neyda Abreu, a Chief Scientist at NASA Langley Research Center, describes these showers as the Earth getting caught in the middle of an astronomical snowball fight! But in all seriousness, she adds, "We get to see meteors because they are chunks that broke off from comets and asteroids. According to Dr. Abreu, comets are made of ice, along with rocky and organic parts. In other words, giant, very old versions of the kind of snowball youd get if your fingers dig into the dirt. Asteroids are rocky bodies that may have some water ice in them, she explains. When these celestial bodies either get close to the sun or collide with one another, they break up, leaving behind a cloud of debris. And when Earth collides or passes through that cloud, bits of debris enter the atmosphere. Oftentimes, the debris breaks apart by a process called ablation, which makes for a bright display of meteors, she continues. "If a meteor makes it to the ground, the rock that lands on the Earths surface is called a meteorite. These meteor showers can really light up the skyespecially in dark areas with little light pollution. And they come with deep cosmic roots. Comets and the meteors that broke up from them formed around 4.6 billion years ago, before the Earth was a planet," says Dr. Abreu. "So, when you look at a meteor shower, you are seeing some of the oldest objects in our solar system. So, how do you watch them, how long do they last, and can you capture them in a photo? Weve got you covered. Related: What a Wonderful World! 75 Absolutely Fascinating Facts About Planet Earth What Two Meteor Showers Will Be Visible Tonight? The Southern Delta Aquariid and Capricornids meteor showers will be visible as they streak through the sky. Both are active in July and August, but theyll hit their peak between July 29 and 30. What Is the Southern Delta Aquariid Meteor Shower? The Southern Delta Aquariids occur when Earth travels through a trail of debris left behind by Comet 96P/Machholz. As the tiny bits of rock and dust hit our atmosphere, they create streaks of lightmeteors, or faint shooting starswith glowing, extended tails. Related: 101 Science Trivia Questions and Answers To Test Your Knowledge What Is the Capricornids Meteor Shower? The Capricornids appear when Earth passes through debris left by another comet. These meteors are slower, but often brighterand sometimes burst into fireballs. You wont see as many as with the Delta Aquariids, but what you do see could be dramatic. When Will the Southern Delta Aquariids Peak? The Southern Delta Aquariids are expected to peak July 2930, with about 15 to 20 meteors per hour. These fast-moving meteors, known for their glowing trails, come from a comets dusty debris. Theyre faint but frequent. The best time to watch is just before dawn. When Will the Capricornids Peak? The Capricornids will peak around July 30 and may produce around five meteors per hour. Theyre slower and fewer than the Aquariidsbut when they show up, they shine. Their fireballs can be bold and beautiful. Whats the Best Way To See These Two Meteor Showers? Dr. Abreu advises that the best time to catch the Capricornids is after midnight. For the Southern Delta Aquariids, aim for the early morning hours before dawn. But you should be able to see meteors from these showers a couple of weeks before and after their peaks, she explains. That is because the Earth will be moving through the cloud of debris left by the comets over a few weeks. And since Earth will pass through the densest part of that cloud between July 29 and 30, more meteors will light up the sky then. Related: 3, 2, 1, Blast Off! How Long Does It Actually Take To Get to the Moon? How Long Will the Southern Delta Aquariids Last? The Southern Delta Aquariid meteor shower is expected to continue through August 12. While the peak falls around July 2930, you could see up to 20 meteors per hour in the early morning skies throughout that week. How Long Will the Capricornids Last? The Capricornids are expected to last through August 15. These slow-moving meteors often shine brightly and sometimes produce dramatic fireballs. Where in the Sky Should You Look for These Meteors? The name of the shower offers a helpful clue. Dr. Abreu says meteor showers are named for the constellations where their radiant points appear. Radiant points are the areas of the sky where meteors appear to come from. So, if a meteor showers name includes the word Aquariid, the meteors will seem to come from the Aquarius constellation, she explains. Likewise, if it includes the word Capricornids, the meteors will appear to come from Capricorn. Both Aquarius and Capricorn are zodiacal constellations, which means that they are observable along the apparent path of the Sun across the sky. Dr. Abreu is also quick to clarify that meteors dont come from stars in those constellations. They come from the dust and rocky fragments left behind by comets and asteroids, which are objects in this solar system, she says. Do These Meteor Showers Come from Comets? Yes! Both the Southern Delta Aquariids and Capricornids come from comets. As Dr. Abreu explains, the Southern Delta Aquariid Meteor Shower originates from Comet 96P/Machholz, while the Capricornids come from Comet 169P/NEAT. One thing that makes these comets special is that they are short-period comets, meaning that we get to see them every few years," she says. What Is the Best Way to Photograph Meteor Showers? The key is the right combination of tools and conditions. Dr. Abreu says the essentials include darkness, time, stability, high sensitivity and a wide-angle lens. Also: steer clear of city lights and the moon. She explains that time means using a longer exposure, so set your camera on a tripod or sturdy surface. A low light setting for your camera will mean that the sensitivity to the flash of light from the ablation of the meteor will be more visible, she adds. "A wide-angle lens will give you a larger cross-section of the night sky, so a higher probability that you will capture a meteor speeding across the atmosphere. Up Next: Related: Get Ready for 2025s First SupermoonHeres When To Look Up Later This Year Source: Dr. Neyda Abreu, a Chief Scientist at NASA Langley Research Center Two Meteor Showers Will Be Visible TonightHere's How To See Them first appeared on Parade on Jul 29, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 29, 2025, where it first appeared. (Diana Ramirez/De Los; Photos by Samer Daboul) Brothers Carlos Martin and Oscar Alejandro Gonzalez both of whom are Mexican nationals were released from the Florida detention center in the Everglades known as "Alligator Alcatraz" after being detained earlier this month. The 26-year-old Carlos Martin was pulled over by Florida Highway Patrol officers in Orlando on July 7 because the car he was driving had overly tinted windows and a Mexican license plate, according to the Orlando Sentinel. The state trooper ran the vehicle's plates and said it had no valid registration. Carlos Martin explained that it belonged to this older brother; but when Oscar Alejandro arrived to prove ownership, neither his name nor his brother's was registered on the title. Carlos Martin was subsequently booked for driving an unregistered car and taken to a county jail. The circumstances regarding Oscar Alejandro's detention are unclear, as there was no arrest record released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The younger Gonzalez brother had been visiting his sibling in Orlando on a tourist visa. Oscar Alejandro, who is married to a U.S. citizen, has an expired residence permit, according to El Pais. Read more: 'Alligator Alcatraz' detainees held without charges, barred from legal access, attorneys say In an interview with the Orlando Sentinel, the brothers' father, Martin Gonzalez, said his sons were transferred to the Everglades immigration detention center after spending three days in a county jail. After flying from Mexico to Orlando, Martin Gonzalez was able to get into contact over the phone with his sons and the Mexican Consulate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [My sons] tell me they are scared and desperate to get back to their home country, Martin Gonzalez said. They say its a closed place with artificial lights on 24 hours a day, and they dont know what time it is, or if its day or night. But after several weeks of detention, Roberto Velasco Alvarez the head of the North American unit at the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Sunday that the brothers had returned to Mexico without charges. "Regarding the case of the two brothers detained in 'Alligator Alcatraz,' [Consul of Mexico in Orlando Juan Sabines Guerrero] informs us that both are now in our country without charges and with their valid documents," Alvarez said in a post from his official X account. "The dialogue with local and federal authorities enabled the voluntary departure of the young people this weekend." Read more: Contributor: Jim Crow meets ICE at 'Alligator Alcatraz' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a Tuesday morning news conference, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said that there were 14 Mexican nationals at the Florida detention center and that the government was making efforts to retrieve them. "From the moment we learned of this facility, we sent a diplomatic message so that any Mexican can be deported immediately and that they don't need to spend any time at that detention center," Sheinbaum said. "The consulate is looking to see if there are any violations of human rights." Alvarez reiterated Sheinbaum's message Sunday on X, saying, " As for [the Ministry of Foreign Affairs], we remain attentive to the Mexicans still detained at said center. By order of President @Claudiashein and Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente, we are monitoring that their immigration processes are carried out in accordance with due process and respect human dignity." Legal advocates in Florida have called the conditions in the Everglades detention center "unlivable." One detainee of the center told NBC News that she is held in an overcrowded room that is filled with mosquitoes and is allowed to shower only once every three to four days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Deportation flights from Florida's 'Alligator Alcatraz' detention center have begun, DeSantis says Last week, Human Rights Watch a nongovernmental advocacy group that monitors human rights abuses around the world released a 92-page report that claimed three Florida detention centers "flagrantly violate international human rights standards. The organization interviewed 11 currently and recently detained individuals who had been held at the following Florida detention centers: Krome North Service Processing Center, the Broward Transitional Center and the Federal Detention Center. Additionally, family members of seven detainees and 14 immigration lawyers were interviewed as part of the report. Tricia McLaughlin, Department of Homeland Security assistant secretary, has denied that any Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities violated any safety or human rights standards. Any claim that there are subprime conditions at ICE detention centers are FALSE. All detainees are provided with proper meals, medical treatment and have opportunities to communicate with their family members and lawyers, McLaughlin has said. Ensuring the safety, security and well-being of individuals in our custody is a top priority at ICE. ICE has higher detention standards than most U.S. prisons that hold actual U.S. citizens. Get our Latinx Files newsletter for stories that capture the complexity of our communities. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. (KRON) Two Nissan dealerships have shut down for good amid a rough start to the year for the Japanese automaker. North Bay Nissan (Petaluma) and Vallejo Nissan both officially closed on Friday, July 25, according to their respective websites. North Bay Nissan, located at 1250 Auto Center Drive, has been operating since 1997, according to the Better Business Bureau (BBB). There were 55 employees at this dealership. Customers at either dealership have been directed to the Nissan of Vacaville. There is also a Jim Bone Nissan dealership in Santa Rosa, which remains open. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Vallejo Nissan, located at 3287 Sonoma Blvd., is now being converted to a Hyundai dealership. According to BBB, Vallejo Nissan had been in business since 2018. Vallejo Nissan customers could still have their vehicles serviced at the new facility. While we are happy to provide maintenance and repair services for Nissan vehicles, please note that we are no longer authorized to perform warranty work on behalf of Nissan, the new Hyundai dealership wrote. Asian buffet serving lobster tails, boba now open in East Bay Screenshot of the homepage of North Bay Nissans website since closing last Friday. Screenshot of the website of Vallejo Nissan, which has now been converted to a Hyundai dealership. Sears in Bay Area to become last remaining store on West Coast Nissan does not own either the Vallejo or Petaluma dealership. These two dealerships are franchised and independently owned, but Nissans recent struggles globally have had a domino effect on such dealerships in the U.S. According to CBT News, an outlet covering the auto industry, about 38% of Nissan dealerships in the country operated at a loss in the first half of 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two shuttering dealerships come at a time when Nissan reported a fiscal year loss of $4.5 billion through March. The automaker announced in May that it would be cutting 15 percent of its global workforce, roughly 20,000 employees. Earlier this year, Nissan, along with Mitsubishi, was in talks with fellow Japanese automaker Honda to merge. Those negotiations ended in February with no merger, and Nissan ultimately decided to rebuild its company without the backing of the automotive giant Honda. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. Two Oklahoma State Department of Education Board members reported seeing images of naked women on a TV screen in State Superintendent Ryan Walters office during an executive board meeting Thursday. The Oklahoman and NonDoc were the first to break the news Friday. The Oklahoma County Sheriffs Office is investigating the allegations after lawmakers said the Office of Management and Enterprise Services referred the matter to Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson, said Aaron Brilbeck, a spokesman for the Sheriffs Office, according to an Oklahoma Voice report Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Oklahoma County Sheriffs Office has assigned an investigator to the case who will determine if anything illegal happened, Brilbeck told Oklahoma Voice. The probe is very much in the preliminary stages, he said. Board members Becky Carson and Ryan Deatherage said the incident occurred while a parent was speaking about an appeal regarding a transfer denial, according to NonDoc. NonDoc reported that while neither (board members) Becky Carson nor Ryan Deatherage could tell what video was displaying nude women on Walters office TV, each told NonDoc they were the only people seated in a position to see the screen. Deatherage said he noticed the video first while a parent was speaking about her appeal of a district transfer denial. As Deatherage weighed his options about how to bring the video to the rooms attention, Carson noticed the nudity, according to the July 25 story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was like, What am I seeing? I kind of was in shock, honestly. I started to question whether I was actually seeing what I was seeing, Carson told NonDoc. I was like, Is that woman naked? and then I was like, No, shes got a body suit on. And it happened very quickly, I was like, That is not a body suit. Carson spoke up and asked, What is on your TV? What am I watching? according to NonDoc. Carson said Walters asked, What? What are you talking about? He stood up and saw it. He made acknowledgment that he saw it. And I said, Turn it off. Now. and he was like, What is this? What is this? Deatherage told NonDoc that the images appeared to be retro in nature and included some kind of chiropractic table. I dont know if he turned it off or switched the channel, I dont remember, Deatherage said. I was surprised that when he came back to the table, he was not apologetic. I didnt ever hear an apology for that being on, and he didnt seem to be fazed that it was on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walters released a statement Sunday, stating that the incident was politically motived. As I lead the charge for a bold overhaul of education in Oklahoma, putting parents back in control, rejecting radical agendas, and demanding excellence: its no surprise to face politically motivated attacks, Walters said. Any suggestion that a device of mine was used to stream inappropriate content on the television set is categorically false. I have no knowledge of what was on the TV screen during the alleged incident, and there is absolutely no truth to any implication of wrongdoing. These falsehoods are the desperate tactics of a broken establishment afraid of real change. They arent just attacking me, theyre attacking the values of the Oklahomans who elected me to challenge the status quo. I will not be distracted. My focus remains on making Oklahoma the best state in the nation, in every category. Earlier this year, Gov. Kevin Stitt appointed both Carson and Deatherage, replacing other Board members who had been more supportive of Walters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I trust and appreciate my board members, Stitt told The Oklahoman on Friday. They are volunteers who are sacrificing their time to serve Oklahoma students. Should these allegations be true, all I can say is that I am profoundly disappointed. The News Press reached out to Walters for further comment Monday, but didnt receive a response by press time. Additionally, the News Press also reached out to both Deatherage and Carson for further comment. Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, and Senate Education Chair Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, said Friday the states Office of Management and Enterprise Services has opened an investigation inquiry looking into the allegations. This is a bizarre and troubling situation that raises serious questions about the events and what took place during yesterdays executive session at the Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting, Paxton said in a news release. The accounts made public by board members paint a strange, unsettling scene that demands clarity and transparency. Senator Pugh and I appreciate the quick action by OMES to help coordinate through this situation to get details on exactly what happened. More transparency is essential before strong conclusions can be drawn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pugh also weighed in regarding Thursdays executive session at OSDE. The reports coming out of Thursdays Board of Education meeting raise a number of questions, Pugh said. This is a situation that warrants further explanation and transparency. Additionally, Superintendent Walters and those making the allegations deserve to be heard and give their side of the story. I appreciate the efforts by everyone who are taking these allegations seriously. Well be watching closely as more information comes to light. House Speaker Kyle Hilbert also released a statement about the accusations. These are serious allegations made by two members of the State Board and an expeditious third-party review is warranted. I urge the State Superintendent to unlock and turn over all relevant devices and fully cooperate with an investigation. If no wrongdoing occurred, a prompt and transparent review should quickly clear his name, Hilbert said. (FOX40.COM) Two Sacramento residents were sentenced to prison for a false income tax return scheme, Acting U.S. Attorney Kimberly announced on Monday. Video above: President Trump sets August 1st date for more tariffs According to the United States Department of Justice, Dominic Davis, 40, and Sharitia Wright, 61, both of Sacramento, were sentenced to federal prison for conspiring to file false claims. Davis received a sentence of three years and four months in jail, and Wright received a sentence of one year and three months in jail. Mother-son duo sentenced to prison for inmate unemployment insurance claims Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to USDOJ, the court documents showed that between March 2019 and April 2022, Davis and Wright caused at least nine fraudulent income-tax returns to be filed with the IRS, claiming more than $2 million of income tax refunds. The returns had been filed in both Davis, Wright, and family members and listed wages that taxpayers did not receive, officials said. Many of the returns listed the taxpayers employer as one of the various LLCs created by Davis, Wright, and their family members. Many of the returns, the USDOJ said that had falsely claimed charitable contributions that were not made. Davis had prepared and filed the false tax returns. Wright provided him with information and contacted the Internal Revenue Service to check on the status of the refunds that were claimed in the false tax returns. The USDOJ said both of them have been ordered to pay restitution for the fraudulent income tax refunds that they had received. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. By Jody Godoy and Sarah N. Lynch (Reuters) -Two officials at the U.S. Department of Justice's antitrust division have been fired for insubordination, a source familiar with the decision said on Tuesday, as controversy builds over how the DOJ reached a recent settlement greenlighting Hewlett Packard Enterprise's $14 billion acquisition of Juniper Networks. The source said the firings removed two top deputies of Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater, a former JD Vance advisor who leads the antitrust division. The move exposed a power struggle within President Donald Trump's administration between proponents of robust antitrust enforcement and dealmakers seeking to leverage influence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roger Alford, a former official during the first Trump administration who was Slater's top deputy, and Bill Rinner, a former counsel at hedge fund Apollo Global Management who was in charge of merger enforcement, were no longer listed among antitrust leadership on a Justice Department website on Tuesday. Alford and Rinner did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Shortly after Trump took office in January, the Justice Department sued to block the deal, alleging it would harm competition in the market for wireless networking solutions used by large enterprises. HP Enterprise started negotiating the deal with the DOJ on March 25, around two weeks after Slater was sworn in, according to court papers. Ahead of a scheduled trial, the DOJ agreed to drop its claims in exchange for HP Enterprise agreeing to license some of Juniper's AI technology to competitors and sell off a unit that caters to small and mid-sized businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Slater and several Justice officials, including Rinner and Alford, signed the settlement rather than staff attorneys on the case, a move that sources familiar with merger protocol called unusual. Chad Mizelle, Attorney General Pam Bondi's chief of staff, was one of the officials who signed the deal. Mizelle had directed the antitrust division to settle the case, according to a person briefed on the matter. After Slater pushed back, Mizelle sought to fire Slater's deputies in retaliation, the person said. Four Democratic senators led by Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, on Tuesday called on the federal judge overseeing the merger case to hold a hearing on whether the settlement is in the public interest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. law seeks to guard against backdoor merger clearance of merger deals by requiring merging companies to disclose communications with "any officer or employee of the United States concerning or relevant to" a settlement proposal. The senators want U.S. District Judge Casey Pitts in San Jose, California, to probe whether companies hired consultants to lobby the White House in support of the deal and failed to disclose them. If this or any other transaction is approved based on political favors rather than on the merits, the public will surely bear the cost, the senators wrote. HP Enterprise spokesperson Adam Bauer said the company is "confident our acquisition of Juniper Networks is in the public interest and will promote further competition in the enterprise WLAN market," adding "the transaction was appropriately approved with certain remedies by the U.S. Department of Justice, and it was unconditionally approved by 13 other antitrust regulators around the world." (Reporting by Jody Godoy in New York and Sarah N. Lynch in Washington; Editing by David Gregorio) Russian forces attacked the Nikopol district of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast with artillery and FPV drones on 29 July, injuring two people. Source: Serhii Lysak, Head of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram Quote: "During the day, the enemy attacked the Nikopol district. They struck Nikopol itself, as well as the Pokrovsk, Marhanets and Myriv hromadas. Artillery and FPV drones were used. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town along with their adjacent territories ed.] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two people were injured a 50-year-old woman and a 57-year-old man. They will be treated on an outpatient basis." The aftermath of the Russian attack. Photo: Serhii Lysak Details: Damage was also reported to a five-storey building, four houses, three outbuildings and a car. The Russian Federation also struck the Synelnykove district, where fires broke out. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) Tyler Perry Studios is looking for the best of the best, and one Shreveporter is ready to prove they have what it takes. You may know him as the director of the chart-topping Netflix film, Straw, but many others are about to know him in an entirely new way: mentor. Tyler Perry Studios Selects Shreveport Director for Dream Collective Program 50 Cent G Unit Studios, Film Shreveport, Mark Bonner, Writers, Movies, Local Bossier Tyler Perry is looking to develop the next big thing with his new project, Dream Collective Studios, and one Shreveporter has a hat in the ring for the competition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the website, Dream Collective Studios can be described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience for filmmakers who may have been overlooked. The Tyler Perry Studios Dream Collective is an immersive program designed to identify, cultivate and elevate the next wave of dynamic filmmakers, with an eye on historically underrepresented, underrecognized voices This may be just the opportunity for 2021 Film Prize winner and Shreveport director and writer Mark Bonner. Bronner was just one of over 3,000 applicants when he received word that he had officially become a finalist. Announcing the exciting news via Facebook, sharing photos and a video of the package he received from the prestigious studio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shreveport Son wins top honors in 2021 Louisiana Film Prize competition The excited filmmaker wrote on his account, Out of thousands of entries, I was selected as an official finalist director/writer. This was absolute joy and honor to be a part of, its a journey of never giving up, keep grinding creatives. Bonner will be one of 100 participants in four weeks of virtual sessions designed to educate, inspire, and cultivate a lasting community. The sessions will allow participants to meet with a director and creative collaborators. They will cover topics that include career origin, the art of collaboration and case studies of trials and triumphs on and off set. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to the training, each of the 100 finalists will be invited to submit short film scripts and materials for evaluation, with the opportunity to advance to an in-person experience. 10 winners will then be flown out to Tyler Perry Studios to begin an immersive, 10-day hands-on training workshop, including Short Film prep. According to the round four details online, participants will have the opportunity to experiment with and develop their directing skills, working with actors who are a part of Tyler Perry Studios, all in preparation for a final pitch. After evaluation of the pitches, five grand prize winners will be selected and notified they have made it to round five titled Execute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each Grand Prize winner will receive $30,000 in production funding and/or resources from the Dream Collective to bring their short film to life. The two-day production window will take place in the greater Atlanta area and immediately put to the test the skills they have learned. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. Immigration officers were caught on video celebrating proudly after using chokeholds and a stun gun to arrest two undocumented immigrants in Florida. The owner of the video, an 18-year-old American citizen, was threatened and charged after he refused to delete the footage revealing the harsh tactics used by immigration authorities to meet the Trump administration's mass deportation goals. Kenny Laynez-Ambrosio was on his way to work on the morning of May 2 with his mother and two other men in North Palm Beach, Florida, when the vehicle was pulled over by a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) officer, reported The Guardian. The initial reason for the stop is unclear, but after the FHP called in Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, the peaceful traffic stop quickly turned violent. Laynez-Ambrosio began recording when CBP agents arrived, and a female officer can be heard asking if anyone in the car is an undocumented immigrant. One of Laynez-Ambrosio's friends answered that he was. "That's when they said, 'OK, let's go,'" Laynez-Ambrosio told The Guardian. Before anyone was able to exit the vehicle, CBP officers became aggressive. "[One officer] put his hand inside the window," he said, "popped the door open, grabbed my friend by the neck and had him in a chokehold." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the video, he can be heard telling the officers, "You can't grab me like that," while three officers pull the second man from the van, and tell him to "get your fucking head down, on the ground." When the man lands on his feet while being pulled from the vehicle, officers push him to the ground and then pull him back to his feet while one officer keeps him in a headlock. Laynez-Ambrosio, who was also forced to the ground, can be heard yelling, "That's not how you arrest people. If y'all going to arrest people, y'all have to arrest people regular." He then tells his friend, in Spanish, "Don't resist. Don't resist." The commotion ends when an officer uses his stun gun on Laynez-Ambrosio's friend, who falls to the ground, crying out in pain. "You're scaring the dude," Laynez-Ambrosio says to an officer shortly after. "That's not how you arrest people." "Why?" an officer callously responds. After asserting his "rights to talk," an officer tells Laynez-Ambrosio, "You've got no rights here. You're a migo, brother." The recording continues after the three men are in custody and captures the officers' candid remarks. A couple of officers can be heard cracking jokes about how one man smells and bragging about the stun gun use. One officer remarks on how "they're starting to resist more now." Another responds, "We're going to end up shooting some of them because they're going to start fighting." "Just remember, you can smell that [inaudible] with a $30,000 bonus," one officer says amidst post-arrest celebrations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After his arrest and six-hour detention at a CBP station, Laynez-Ambrosio told The Guardian he was threatened with charges if he didn't delete the exposing video. When he refused, he was charged with obstruction without violence for having allegedly interfered with CBP officers' arresta first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to a $1,000 fine and one year of incarceration. He was ultimately sentenced to 10 hours of community service and a four-hour anger management course. The two undocumented men were transferred to the Krome detention center in Miami. Laynez-Ambrosio "believes they were released on bail and are awaiting a court hearing, but said it has been difficult to stay in touch with them." Florida has led the nation in cooperation with federal immigration authorities, sparking privacy and civil liberty concerns for both undocumented immigrants and American citizens alike. But rather than change course, the Trump administration has doubled down on mass deportation goals and recently appropriated nearly $75 billion to dramatically increase immigration detention capacity and immigration arrests to reach 3,000 arrests per day. The appropriation includes funding for hiring, retention, and performance bonuses for federal immigration officers. "The federal government has imposed quotas for the arrest of immigrants," Laynez-Ambrosio's attorney, Jack Scarola, told The Guardian. "Any time law enforcement is compelled to work towards a quota, it poses a significant risk to other rights." Scarola's warning appears to be right. The Department of Homeland Security posted on Monday that it will "stop at nothing to hunt [undocumented immigrants] down." The brutal tactics used by federal officers under the Trump administration, against mostly nonviolent immigrantsincluding people on their way to work and who pose no threat to public safetywill only serve to degrade constitutional protections and subject more people to the government's abuse of power. The post This U.S. Citizen Recorded an Immigration Arrest. Officers Told Him To Delete It or Face Charges. appeared first on Reason.com. Video of an 18-year-old U.S. citizen being violently arrested in Florida by immigration agents back in May has drawn heavy scrutiny, with advocates saying the expansion of state and local law enforcement's role in illegal immigrant crackdowns contributed to the incident. Border Patrol and the Florida Highway Patrol were conducting immigration enforcement on May 2 when they detained Kenny Laynez, a high school senior who was on his way to work as a landscaper with two other co-workers and his mother, who was driving. Video Laynez recorded of the arrest shows an officer telling him, a U.S. citizen who was born and raised in the country, "You got no rights here. You're an amigo, brother." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It hurts me, hearing them saying that I have no rights here because I look like, um, you know, Hispanic, I'm Hispanic," Laynez told CBS News. The car was pulled over for having too many people sitting in the front seat. Two passengers were undocumented, according to Laynez, and officers are seen on the video using a Taser. The teens' two co-workers were both detained, and Laynez says he has been unable to contact them. "We're not resisting. We're not committing any crime to, you know, run away," Laynez said, recalling the arrest. Laynez's phone continued recording after he was detained, capturing an exchange in which an officer tells another, "They're starting to resist more. We're gonna end up shooting some of them." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another officer replies, "Just remember, you can smell that too with a $30,000 bonus." Florida Highway Patrol did not comment. U.S. Customs and Border Protection told CBS News in a statement that the individuals "resisted arrest" and said immigration agents are facing a surge in assaults while doing their job. The statement made no mention that a U.S. citizen had been detained. The video comes as Florida is set to deputize more than 1,800 additional law enforcement officers to conduct immigration operations as part of a statewide crackdown. "Laws are just, you know, they're no longer being respected. They're no longer being upheld," said Mariana Blanco, director at the Guatemala Maya Center, an advocacy group that opposes Florida's new crackdown. "Deputizing these agents so quickly, it is going to bring severe consequences." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Oliver: The 60 Minutes Interview Finding the plane used for Argentina's dictatorship-era "death flights" | 60 Minutes Immigration agent told 18-year-old U.S. citizen "you got no rights here" during arrest July 28 (UPI) -- The White House said Monday the United States will "steadfastly" safeguard its interests on the Korean Peninsula with "safety, stability, prosperity and peace" as the endgame. That message was delivered the day in which the nation honors the truce that ended America's involvement in the Korean War more than seven decades ago. It was a day that also served as a catalyst of the current divergent north and south Korean national ideologies. "We pay tribute to every American hero who ventured to unfamiliar lands to face some of the most gruesome combat in the history of our country," U.S. President Donald Trump said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The armistice agreement signing ended the bloody three-year conflict in northeast Asia in which 36,574 U.S. military service members, according to the U.S. Department of Defense, died out of nearly 2 million who fought in the bid to repel the advancement of communism in the region. "We spent 15 minutes or so honoring all those men and women who fought and died in Korea," Master of Ceremonies Bob Fugit said Monday in Wichita as locals gathered at Veterans Memorial Park for events to commemorate what some say is America's "Forgotten War." A red, white and blue wreath is placed at the Korean War Veterans Memorial on July 4 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. File Photo by Annabelle Gordon/UPI 72 years ago today, an armistice agreement was signed, ending combat in the Korean War. After 38 months of fighting, the truce established a Demilitarized Zone that is still enforced today. More than 36,000 Americans lost their lives while serving in the war. We remember them. pic.twitter.com/fKVgyCNDTA National Mall NPS (@NationalMallNPS) July 27, 2025 A tour group looks on in May 2023 at the Korean War Veterans Memorial during Memorial Day weekend in Washington, D.C. On Monday, oldest grandson of then-President Harry S. Truman told UPI he believes Korea is collectively labeled by historians as America's "Forgotten War" largely due to public sentiment at the time that seemingly echoed beyond history. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI "That's been a war that everybody wants to forget, even more than Vietnam," Fugit told KAKE in Kansas. Though most might want to forget, there still have been some efforts to remember. Missouri veterans read the hundreds of names attached to the new Wall of Remembrance in Aug. 2022 at the Korean War Memorial during a visit in Washington, D.C. File Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July 2022, the nation's capital saw the Korean War Veterans Memorial unveil its new addition along with a total renovation to coincide with that year's Armistice Day festivities in Washington. A DOD web portal for the Korean conflict lists volumes of stories in a live-running historic archive of events related to the conflict. "Today, we pause to remember the courage and sacrifice of the heroes who served during the Korean War," the department posted Sunday morning on X, adding that the "legacy of their resilience lives on." In June 1950, then-President Harry S. Truman said that those responsible for "unprovoked aggression" against South Korea during the so-called "forgotten" war "must realize how seriously the government of the United States views such threats to the peace of the world." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a UPI article on July 27, 1953, the day it was penned seven months after war hero general and eventual GOP icon Dwight D. Eisenhower assumed the presidency, it read in part: "The armistice documents ending the bitter, stalemated efforts of the Communists to seize all Korea by force were signed at 10:01 a.m. today in the truce village of Panmunjom." On Monday, the 33rd president's oldest grandson said he believes Korea is collectively labeled by historians as the "Forgotten War" primarily because of public sentiment at the time. "I think that has to do with fact that, although Americans were firmly behind my grandfather when he moved quickly to aid a beleaguered South Korea," Clifton Truman Daniel told UPI via email, "they quickly tired of a conflict that was perceived as being not our fight." Daniel, the son of acclaimed author Margaret Truman Daniel, is honorary chair at the Harry S. Truman Library Institute, a partner of the 33rd president's library and museum in Independence, Mo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was "a war on top of a war, if you will," Daniel, 68, said of the post-World War II era. "And it came with objectives that were new, in terms of warfare," he said, adding that it was "hard to define" at that point. Outside efforts have lingered on with hopes to one day reunite the two Koreas even as the north rejects any such idea. Meanwhile, officials pointed to Trump's visit in June 2019 as the first sitting U.S. president to walk next to communist North Korea's demilitarized zone. On Monday, the president said that in observing the day "we renew our resolve that forces of freedom will always prevail over tyranny and oppression." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its statement, the White House reiterated that South Korean and U.S forces remained "united" in an "ironclad" military alliance as the region circles around aggression by North Korean communist dictator Kim Jong-Un, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin. "We honor the patriots who fought and died in Korea so that freedom might endure both on our land and beyond our shores," the president continued, vowing to "rebuild" the U.S. military, support veterans "and stand strong against forces of tyranny." In North Korea, its "Victory Day" is celebrated with great fanfare, and it is not uncommon to see large-scale military parade processions in the north's capital city Pyongyang, much like Trump's in June that rolled through the streets of Washington, D.C. But Trump said that, above all, "we proudly remember every American hero who shed their blood to defend our home, our heritage and our glorious way of life." "Their valiant legacy will never be forgotten," he said. The United Kingdom will formally recognize a Palestinian state unless Israel implements a ceasefire and addresses the intolerable situation on the ground in Gaza, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced. Starmer said the U.K. will make the declaration at the United Nations General Assembly in September, unless Israel takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire, and commit to a sustainable, long-term peace that revives the prospect of a two-state solution. The move follows a similar announcement from French President Emmanuel Macron that France will recognize Palestine in September, and comes amid growing international outrage over Israels actions in Gazafueled by images of emaciated children and a rising hunger-related death toll. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer said that Israel must also allow the United Nations to resume aid deliveries into Gaza and provide assurances that no annexations will take place in the West Bank. Our message to the terrorists of Hamas is unchanged and unequivocal. They must immediately release all of the hostages, sign up to a cease-fire, disarm, and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza, Starmer told reporters. "But also we need alongside that to ensure that we get aid in at volume and in speed into Gaza because the situation is simply intolerable, he said. Starmer expressed concern that the goal of a two-state solution is slipping further out of reach. The very idea of a two state solution is reducing and feels further away today than it has felt for many, many years, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A U.N.-backed international food security body warned earlier on Tuesday that Gaza is experiencing a worst-case famine scenario saying that intensifying conflict and displacement are leading to widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease. Last week, the Israeli government also passed a non-binding motion for the annexation of the West Bank before the Knesset began a three-month recess. Starmer follows Macron in move toward recognition On July 25, Macron announced that he would be officially recognising the State of Palestine at the U.N. General Assembly in September a move that was met with criticism from Israel and the United States. It is essential to build the State of Palestine, ensure its viability, and enable it, by accepting its demilitarization and fully recognizing Israel, to contribute to the security of all in the Middle East. There is no alternative, Macron said last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year Spain, Norway and Ireland also recognized Palestine. Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu does not have a project of peace for Palestine, even if the fight against the terrorist group Hamas is legitimate," Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said in May 2024. Irish Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Simon Harris, who announced the decision in a press conference, likened Palestinians bid for self-determination to the Irish peoples history seeking international recognition of their independence in 1919. Today, we use the same language to support the recognition of Palestine as a state, said Harris. Israels Defense Minister Israel Katz responded to the decisions, calling them distorted and that they send a message to the Palestinians and the world: Terrorism pays. Domestic pressure spurs Starmer His statement comes amid growing domestic pressure over the U.K.'s stance on the conflict. More than 230 MPs, including a third of his cabinet, have urged him to act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.K. has increased its pressure on Israel in recent weeks regarding its conduct in both Gaza and the West Bank. Starmer signed a joint statement alongside Canada and France on May 19 in which the three countries condemned Israels plans to expand military operations in Gaza. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Starmer, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and French President Emmanuel Macron were Emboldening Hamas, with their stance. In June, the U.K, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Norway imposed sanctions against far-right Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich for Inciting extremist violence and serious abuses of Palestinian human rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most recently, more than 30 countries including the U.K. signed a joint statement calling for an immediate end to the war in Gaza, saying: The suffering of civilians in Gaza has reached new depths. The Israeli governments aid delivery model is dangerous, fuels instability and deprives Gazans of human dignity. The statement also reiterated calls for Hamas to release the remaining hostages still held in captivity within Gaza. Contact us at letters@time.com. The United Kingdom will recognize Palestine as a state in September unless Israel takes "substantive steps" to end the "appalling situation in Gaza," British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Tuesday. Addressing reporters at Downing Street, the prime minister said the U.K. will recognize Palestine as a state at the United Nations General Assembly in September unless Israel takes a number of steps including the establishment of a ceasefire in Gaza, a commitment to halting the annexation of territory in the West Bank, and a pledge to work toward a peace process involving a two-state solution. "Meanwhile, our message to the terrorists of Hamas is unchanged and unequivocal. They must immediately release all of the hostages, sign up to a ceasefire, disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza," Starmer added. Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer makes an address following an emergency cabinet meeting on Gaza at 10 Downing Street in London on July 29, 2025. / Credit: TOBY MELVILLE/POOL/AFP via Getty Images Speaking at the U.N. headquarters in New York moments after Starmer had finished speaking, British Foreign Minister David Lammy said the U.K. government had taken this decision as the "two-state solution is in peril." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Let me be clear the Netanyahu government's rejection of a two-state solution is wrong. It's wrong morally and it's wrong strategically. It harms the interest of the Israeli people, closing off the only path to a just and lasting peace, and that is why we are determined to protect the viability of a two-state solution," Lammy said. In a statement on X, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the U.K.'s decision, writing that "Starmer rewards Hamas's monstrous terrorism & punishes its victims." "A jihadist state on Israel's border TODAY will threaten Britain TOMORROW. Appeasement towards jihadist terrorists always fails. It will fail you too. It will not happen," Netanyahu said. Israel's Foreign Ministry also condemned the decision by the U.K. and called it a "reward for Hamas" that "harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of hostages." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to reporters on Air Force One on Tuesday, President Trump said he did not discuss the decision with Starmer during their bilateral meeting in Scotland a day before the announcement. Seated alongside Starmer on Monday, Mr. Trump addressed the situation in Gaza, saying the U.S. will be providing food to the people of Gaza and working to eliminate barriers to humanitarian aid. "Some of those kids are, that's real starvation stuff," Mr. Trump said Monday. "I see it. And you can't fake that. So we're going to be even more involved. He added: "I told Israel maybe they have to do it a different way." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Downing Street spokeswoman said in a statement that Starmer spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the phone regarding the announcement on Tuesday. "He [Starmer] said that the situation in Gaza was intolerable and that the need for humanitarian access is now more pressing than ever before. He urged the Prime Minister to take immediate action to lift all restrictions on aid access and get those suffering in Gaza the food they need," the spokeswoman said. The spokeswoman for Starmer's office said the prime minister had also spoken over the phone with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, as well as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and King Abdullah II of Jordan about the U.K.'s plan to recognize Palestinian statehood. Last week, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France would recognize Palestine as a state and would formalize that decision at the U.N. General Assembly in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Consistent with its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognize the State of Palestine," Macron said at the time. "The urgent priority today is to end the war in Gaza and to bring relief to the civilian population." Netanyahu said Israel "strongly" condemned that decision and said that it "rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy, just as Gaza became." "A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a launch pad to annihilate Israel not to live in peace beside it. Let's be clear: the Palestinians do not seek a state alongside Israel; they seek a state instead of Israel," the Israeli leader said in a post on X. That announcement came as pressure has mounted on Israel to allow more aid into Gaza as images of starving Palestinian children have garnered widespread global attention over the past week. The international pressure led Israel over the weekend to announce measures, including daily humanitarian pauses in fighting in parts of Gaza and airdrops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement France's top diplomat, Jean-Noel Barrot, hailed the U.K. prime minister's announcement Tuesday in a social media post. "Together, through this pivotal decision and our combined efforts, we break the endless cycle of violence and reopen the prospect of peace in the region," Barrot said. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs lists 149 countries that currently recognise the state of Palestine. That number would rise to 151 should France and the U.K. formalize recognition of Palestine as a state in September. At least 60,000 Palestinians have been killed since the Israel-Hamas conflict began, according to the most recent figures released by the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia reacts to Trump's new deadline on Ukraine ceasefire Immigration agent told 18-year-old U.S. citizen "you got no rights here" during arrest EPA moves to repeal landmark finding that greenhouse gases pose public health threat July 29 (UPI) -- U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday said the United Kingdom will recognize a Palestinian state if Israel does not agree to a cease-fire in Gaza by September. Starmer said the Israeli government must take "substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza" by agreeing to a cease-fire and committing to a lasting peace, the BBC reported. The United Kingdom will announce its recognition of a Palestinian state before the U.N. General Assembly, which is scheduled to start on Sept. 9, Starmer said in his ultimatum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ultimately, the only way to bring this humanitarian crisis to an end is through a long-term settlement," Starmer told media. "Our goal remains a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state," he added, "but, right now, that goal is under pressure like never before." Starmer told reporters he always has supported recognizing a Palestinian state as a way to contribute to a lasting peace. "We demand an immediate cease-fire to stop the slaughter, that the U.N. be allowed to send humanitarian assistance into Gaza on a continuing basis to prevent starvation and the immediate release of the hostages," Starmer said in a prepared statement on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer did not say where the Palestinian state would be located or what incentive Hamas would have to agree to a cease-fire if continued hostilities would cause the United Kingdom to recognize such a state. French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday announced that France will announce its recognition of a Palestinian state during September's U.N. conference. Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected Starmer's statement, which it said endangers a viable cease-fire in Gaza. "The shift in the British government's position at this time, following the French move and internal political pressures, constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a cease-fire in Gaza and a framework for the release of hostages," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hamas-run Gaza Health ministry has reported more than 60,000 deaths of Gazans following Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israeli civilians that killed about 1,200 and kidnapped about 250 others. Hamas continues holding 50 hostages, including 28 that Israel and others say likely are dead. U.N. reports indicate Gaza is undergoing a "worst-case scenario of famine" after Israel temporarily halted aid shipments to Gaza from March to mid-May. Starmer did not respond to a UPI request for comment on the matter. NEED TO KNOW Netflix's Trainwreck: Storm Area 51 documentary revisits the 2019 internet meme where 21-year-old Matty Roberts created a satirical Facebook event encouraging people to raid Area 51 in search of extraterrestrial life The viral post attracted the attention of over two million people, leading the military to spend about $11 million in preparation "I will defend to the final day that we did not overspend in our preparation for it," Col. Cavan Craddock says A viral joke on Facebook turned into a serious situation for the United States military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Netflix's latest Trainwreck documentary, Storm Area 51, revisits the 2019 internet meme where 21-year-old Matty Roberts created a satirical Facebook event encouraging people to raid Area 51 in search of extraterrestrial life. Now 26, Roberts, who was inspired by an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, calls the event, named "Storm Area 51, They Cant Stop All of Us," the "ultimate shitpost," in the documentary. What began as a joke started to have real consequences as the post went viral and officials at the classified U.S. Air Force base Area 51 got wind of the event. Ultimately, it attracted the attention of over two million people, leading the military to overestimate the number of people who would actually storm the training facility that's located outside the small, remote town of Rachel, Nev., which has a population of under 100 people. Netflix 'Trainwreck: Storm Area 51' 'Trainwreck: Storm Area 51' The threat of the large crowd storming the area left many unnerved, including military personnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two-part documentary, out July 29, dives into the perspectives of several people involved, from Roberts to citizens of Rachel to a local sheriff and a military colonel. The documentary reveals at the end that the military spent about $11 million to prepare for the raid. The number is first shared by Zeke Spector, a former senior producer at Vice who made a video of himself at the event, which ended up attracting around 150 "raiders," with none of them actually entering the facility. "Eleven million dollars? Thats how much the military lost? For what, added security? What the f---? Thats insane," Spector says with a laugh. The cameras cut to Col. Cavan Craddock, who, with a straight face, defends the exorbitant spending. "You can easily say, 'Well, we shouldnt have done it. We shouldnt have wasted those resources.' My argument will be that there was too wide a range of possibilities, with the worse case scenario being a mass casualty event," he explains. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I will defend to the final day that we did not overspend in our preparation for it," the colonel adds. Netflix Craddock in 'Trainwreck: Storm Area 51' Craddock in 'Trainwreck: Storm Area 51' On September 20, 2019, the day of the event, an alien-themed festival in Rachel was the far bigger draw, attracting over 3,000 people, per the documentary. Others gathered in Las Vegas for an event supported by Roberts. Craddock remembers the chaotic energy at the base during the event, despite the low attendance. "It started approaching 3 a.m. on September 20, and I started getting hyper-concerned about what was going on," he says. "On the original Facebook post, this was the point they were going to storm the gate. All of our forces are ready, were monitoring the situation really closely. Were starting to see some increased activity. Were fully prepared for whatevers going to happen." After the clock struck 3 a.m., the crowd began to run towards the gate, as they said they would in the Facebook post. However, they stopped before breaching the facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Yeah, it was a joke," local sheriff Kerry Lee recalls with a sigh of relief. "They got their moment of fame. They got their picture, and it was done." Craddock then reveals that the military "spent months preparing for this event and that was it. That was the biggest activity we saw." Earlier in the documentary, the colonel gives insight into why the threat was taken seriously. Craddock explains that the military base is guarded by people referred to as "our defenders." He says they are "very very good at their jobs" and are authorized to protect the area against "all enemies, foreign and domestic," even if it requires the use of force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "So, when I heard a bunch of tinfoil-hatwearing conspiracy theorists are going to Naruto-run across the desert to come see aliens, my initial reaction was You have got to be kidding me. I have got enough going on and I dont need this," he continues. "We just dont have the capacity and capability to root out every single one of those individuals to figure out who is a threat and who is not, Craddock says, adding that he consulted a higher-up about the event and was directed to "keep this thing under control and stop it from escalating." "We decided to go very aggressive against it. Get a message out there to let folks know that its not a good idea," he says. Prior to the event, the military released a message warning people not to attempt to enter the base and emphasized that officials would protect the facility against trespassers. BRIDGET BENNETT/AFP via Getty The Storm Area 51 event on Sept. 20, 2019. The Storm Area 51 event on Sept. 20, 2019. In the second episode, Craddock says that the military's plan was "to treat all attendees as hostile until proven otherwise." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Imagine someone in the crowd has a gun. If people start shooting and suddenly hundreds, maybe thousands of people get shot during this event, then youre looking at one of the most deadliest mass shootings in the history of our nation," he notes. As the event neared, the military was in contact with Roberts and other event organizers, and encouraged them to cancel their plans. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), at one point, even paid a visit to Roberts and his mother, to question them about their intentions. During the FBI meeting, Roberts recalls being told that it was "my ass if anybody decided to go in there and storm this base." Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human-interest stories. The documentary also features interviews with nearby hotel owner and Alienstock planner Connie West, ufologist Jeremy Corbell, YouTuber Ben Schneider and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trainwreck series launched in 2022 and has released a total of nine installments. Previous documentaries include Trainwreck: P.I. Moms, about a failed reality series following a group of moms who work as private investigators, and Trainwreck: Balloon Boy, which revisits the 2009 hoax in which a 6-year-old boy was thought to be trapped inside a homemade flying saucer. Trainwreck: Storm Area 51 is now streaming on Netflix. Read the original article on People The United States Department of State is constantly issuing travel advisories and warnings in order to give Americans all the information they need whenever they travel outside of the country. However, the most recent travel advisory came for a rather surprising location. The United States has a whole database dedicated to active travel advisories, ranging from 1 to 4 in severity, with 1 being the least severe and 4 being the most severe. A Level 1 advisory simply urges travelers to "exercise normal precautions," while a Level 2 advisory warns travelers to "exercise increased caution." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Level 3 advisories begin to get a little more severe, urging travelers to "reconsider travel" to that destination, while a Level 4 advisory warns plainly, "do not travel" to that respective destination. On Monday, the State Department reissued a Level 2 advisory. However, it wasn't the severity of the advisory itself that was noteworthy, but the surprising location. Typically, when the United States issues travel advisories, they are for foreign countries and nations. This time, however, the travel advisory was for a large chunk of land that is not owned or claimed by any nation that is seldom visited by travelers: Antarctica. The advisory warned of the potential dangers someone might face while traveling to Antarctica and reminded travelers that there are no U.S. government consular services in the region. ANTARCTICA - FEBRUARY 14: An eroded iceberg is seen is seen floating near Horseshoe Island, Antarctica, on February 14, 2025, where the Turkish Scientific Research Camp is located. Anadolu/Getty Images "Exercise increased caution in Antarctica due to environmental hazards posed by extreme and unpredictable weather and limited emergency services," the travel advisory reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are no U.S. government consular services available to U.S. citizens in the Antarctic Region. The closest U.S Embassies/Consulates are in Argentina, Australia, Chile, New Zealand, and South Africa. U.S. government resources in the Antarctic Region are committed to the U.S. Antarctic Program, per longstanding U.S. policy," the advisory continued. The Antarctic Treaty System, which was established in 1959, prohibits any country from claiming sovereignty over Antarctica. The continent is instead governed by an international agreement that designates the continent for peaceful purposes and scientific research. While it's understandably somewhat surprising for the United States to issue a travel advisory to such a seldom-visited place, there are indeed tourists who visit the continent every year. There may not be commercial flights to Antarctica, but there are specialized flights for tourists, such as day trips to the South Pole. Additionally, there are cruise ships that visit Antarctica, which often depart from South America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trips to the continent are relatively expensive, and travelers would need a permit to actually set foot on the continent, but that can be arranged by a tour operator. U.S. Reissues 'Travel Warning' For Antarctica first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 28, 2025 Congressman Cleo Fields, D-Louisiana, speaks to at the Baton Rouge Press Club luncheon Monday, July 28, 2025, at Drusilla Seafood. (Wes Muller/Louisiana Illuminator) Louisianas newest member of Congress accused President Donald Trump of unconstitutional actions that he says are destroying democracy. U.S. Rep. Cleo Fields, a Democrat representing Louisianas new 6th Congressional District, delivered his remarks Monday to the Baton Rouge Press Club. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think the president is really bringing this country closer and closer to a dictatorship, and Ive said to my constituents the best way to deal with a bully is to stand up to him, Fields said. The White House did not immediately provide a response when reached for comment Monday afternoon. Fields remarks were particularly pointed for the even-keeled congressman who has been a fixture of politics in Baton Rouge since the 1990s. Fields is known both for his progressive politics and his willingness to work with Republicans, having previously chaired a state Senate committee in a Republican super-majority thanks to his close relationship with Gov. Jeff Landry. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His speech focused primarily on Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill, which Fields called one big ugly bill because of the legislations steep cuts to the nations social safety net programs. The bill will reduce federal spending on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program by roughly $186 billion and cut nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid, which is estimated to take health coverage away from 10 million people, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. Hospitals will close, Fields said. Grocery stores will close. The congressman also criticized Trumps spending and tax law for its massive debt burden. The measure extends tax breaks and provisions that largely benefit wealthy earners and owners of large estates, businesses and trust funds. It is forecast to increase federal deficits by $3.8 trillion from 2025 through 2034, according to the Tax Foundation. The one silver lining in the legislation, Fields said, is its provision that exempts taxes on tips. Workers can deduct the first $25,000 in tips they earn from their taxable income, but any additional amount is subject to federal income taxes. The tax break is not available to anyone who earns more than $150,000 a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fields also weighed in on the Trump administrations immigration policy. He said he believes the U.S. should maintain secure borders but disapproves of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements aggressive tactics. Using masked agents to grab people off the street and imprison them in foreign lands without affording them a court hearing is simply unconscionable and a violation of due process rights in the Constitution, he said. Fields said he still has faith in the U.S. Supreme Court to abide by the Constitution but criticized the GOP-majority Congress for abandoning its duty as a separate, equal branch of government that is supposed to limit presidential overreaches. Were destroying our democracy as we know it today, Fields said. Its not about party; its about right and wrong, constitutional and unconstitutional. Although Fields took several jabs at Trump, his overall soft-spoken messaging contrasts with new Democratic Party strategies to break through to voters constantly bombarded with digital distractions. His most pointed comments came in response to questions from reporters, which he fielded during most of the luncheon. His prepared speech was short and focused largely on issues affecting his constituents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think our discourse should always be civil no matter how much we disagree but people need to go to the polls and vote, he said. Asked if he feels Democrats need to embrace a more politically charged messaging style that focuses on Republican scandals such as the Jeffrey Epstein files in order to turn out voters, Fields said he plans to stick to his old strategy. I think we should deal with the issues that affect people back home directly, he said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Sunland Park Police Chief Eric Lopez (center) discussed public safety challenges at a roundtable July 28, 2025 with U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.). (Photo by Leah Romero) Democratic U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez of New Mexicos 2nd Congressional District on Monday met with Sunland Park law enforcement, Gadsden Independent School District representatives and other community leaders of the border city to discuss public safety and steering children away from organized crime influences. Vasquez recently introduced two bills in Congress the No More Narcos Act and the Stop COYOTES Act that would create an educational campaign for middle and high school students who attend school within 100 miles of the border with Mexico, as well as improve communication between federal agencies and local law enforcement. One of the things that is of great concern to me, and continues to be a concern, is the way that our young people arebeing used by the cartels as mules. Being used by coyotes as expendable bodies, essentially, Vasquez said during the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gadsden Independent School District Superintendent Travis Dempsey pointed out the difficulties in addressing online recruitment because cartels move quickly. Moreover, the district includes many grandparents raising grandchildren, which can lead to less monitoring of childrens online activities. We want to make sure our kids get a great education and move on to bigger and better, Dempsey said. We just want to make sure kids are safe. We do not want those drugs or anything of that nature in our schools or community, and getting kids to understand how detrimental that one time experiment they might try could be a lifelong lesson for them. Vasquez mentioned the D.A.R.E. Program, or Drug Abuse Resistance Education Program, with which he and many others around the table grew up. The program typically involves fifth grade students, but the discussion revealed that students even younger than that may already be exposed to drug use, whether by family or outside influences. GISD Chief Academic Officer Maria Hernandez said early elementary students are being caught with cannabis and vapes in school, so the D.A.R.E. Program is reaching them too late. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I really think it has to start with the parents. And I think it almost has to be a shock factor at this point because its so out there all the time, that its very common to the community for kids to have this, Hernandez said. Sunland Park Police Chief Eric Lopez said his department supports starting such drug education programs earlier, but funding and personnel are hurdles. Sunland Park Fire Chief Danny Medrano added that his department has seen a drop in calls, but he also faces financial issues with recruiting and maintaining needed resources. And while training is available for his personnel to better handle medical callouts, it takes time and removes personnel from being available to respond to calls. Sunland Park also doesnt have the call volume to warrant immediate federal attention, he added. Vasquez told Source NM that he believes the Trump Administration is focusing on the wrong area deporting American citizens and militarizing the border, while youth are being targeted across the four border states. This is an area where if we invest in our dollars, federal dollars, wisely, we can prevent American citizens from being involved in trafficking, human trafficking, sexual exploitation, all those horrible things, Vasquez said. He added that one big takeaway from the conversation was the need to start earlier and involve the entire family in educational programs. For the parents as well, they need to know that if they care about the safety and wellbeing of their kids, they also cant be engaged with this type of activity. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has agreed to pay more than $6 million in a consent agreement after Jewish faculty and students brought an antisemitism lawsuit against the school over its handling of pro-Palestinian campus demonstrations. The lawsuit was brought by the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty last year after the encampments cropped up at the university that spring and a video went viral of a Jewish student being blocked from entering a certain part of campus. The university will pay $6.13 million, with the funds going to the plaintiffs and various organizations that work to combat antisemitism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are pleased with the terms of todays settlement. The injunction and other terms UCLA has agreed to demonstrate real progress in the fight against antisemitism, the university and plaintiffs said in a joint statement. According to the Becket Fund, the agreement is the largest private settlement in a campus antisemitism case. A judge will have to sign off on the deal, which also includes a permanent court order forbidding UCLA from excluding Jewish students and faculty on campus. The agreement comes months after UCLA began its Initiative to Combat Antisemitism. When antisemites were terrorizing Jews and excluding them from campus, UCLA chose to protect the thugs and help keep Jews out, said Yitzchok Frankel, a recent UCLA Law graduate. That was shameful, and it is sad that my own school defended those actions for more than a year. But todays court judgment brings justice back to our campus and ensures Jews will be safe and be treated equally once again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Department of Justice said Tuesday that UCLA violated the civil rights of Jewish and Israeli students who reported harassment and intimidation during a spring 2024 pro-Palestinian campus encampment, heightening the political tensions between the University of California and the Trump administration. In a letter addressed to UC President Michael V. Drake, DOJ officials said, "Jewish and Israeli students at UCLA were subjected to severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive harassment that created a hostile environment by members of the encampment." The letter faulted UCLA for not taking down the encampment until after it was attacked by a pro-Israel group. In addition, the department found UCLA was "inadequate" in its response to complaints from Jewish and Israeli students last spring, violating the Equal Protection Clause and Title VI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A DOJ statement that said UCLA acted with "deliberate indifference" toward Jewish students and Atty. Gen. Pam Bondi said the Trump administration will make UCLA pay a heavy price. This disgusting breach of civil rights against students will not stand: DOJ will force UCLA to pay a heavy price for putting Jewish Americans at risk and continue our ongoing investigations into other campuses in the UC system," Bondi said. The DOJ letter, signed by U.S. Assistant Atty. Gen. Harmeet K. Dhillon and Deputy Assistant Atty. Gen. Gregory W. Brown, gave UCLA a deadline of Aug. 5 to enter into a voluntary settlement to "ensure that the hostile environment is eliminated and reasonable steps are taken to prevent its recurrence." If UCLA refuses, the officials said, the Trump administration would file a federal lawsuit by Sept. 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement University of California and UCLA representatives did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The notice is the first major conclusion among an array of Trump administration investigations probing UC campuses over alleged antisemitism, the use of race in admissions and hiring and promotion practices involving faculty diversity. The DOJ said the findings were part of a UC-wide investigation launched May 9. Although the UCLA investigation has concluded, other campus probes continue, the DOJ said. The notice to UCLA comes on the heels of a major Trump administration settlement with Columbia University, which will pay $221 million to restore federal funds that were clawed back amid investigations of campus responses to alleged antisemitism during pro-Palestinian protests. UCLA settles lawsuit over encampment The DOJ announcement about UCLA came hours after the university said it would pay $6.45 million to settle a federal lawsuit brought by three Jewish students and a medical school professor who alleged the university violated their civil rights and enabled antisemitism during the pro-Palestinian encampment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DOJ letter cited that lawsuit's filings as part of its investigations, though it did not mention the settlement. It also said it looked into documentation UCLA shared about its anti-discrimination policies and practices as well as complaints about discrimination related to religion, national origin, race, shared ancestry, and color on campus since Oct. 7, 2023. That day is when Hamas attacked Israel, leading to Israel's ongoing war in Gaza, and spurring protests across U.S. colleges. Specifically, the letter pointed to 11 complaints from Jewish or Israeli students regarding discrimination between April 25 and May 1, 2024, while the encampment was up. The lawsuit, filed more than a year ago, alleged that by not immediately ordering the encampment to be taken down, UCLA provided support to pro-Palestinian activists who "enforced" what it termed a "Jew Exclusion Zone," prohibiting Jewish students and staff from passing through the camp's makeshift barricades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each plaintiff will receive $50,000. About $2.3 million will be donated to eight groups that work with Jewish communities. Another $320,000 will be directed to a UCLA initiative to combat antisemitism, and the rest of the funds will go toward legal fees. As part the deal, UCLA has also agreed that it is "prohibited from knowingly allowing or facilitating the exclusion of Jewish students, faculty, and/or staff from ordinarily available portions of UCLA's programs, activities, and/or campus areas." The provision extends to any actions taken on campus, including measures to de-escalate tensions during a protest, for instance, and includes "exclusion ... based on religious beliefs concerning the Jewish state of Israel." The settlement is believed to be the largest payout by private, individual plaintiffs to date from a flurry of lawsuits filed against universities alleging cases of antisemitism. That agreement, which would be in effect for 15 years, is awaiting approval from U.S. District Judge Mark C. Scarsi, who is overseeing the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The organizations to receive the money are Hillel at UCLA, Academic Engagement Network, the Anti-Defamation League, the Jewish Federation Los Angeles Campus Impact Network, Chabad of UCLA, Jewish Graduate Organization, the Orthodox Union's Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus, and the Film Collaborative, Inc. for use toward producing the Holocaust-related film "Lost Alone." In a joint statement, both parties said the settlement was a sign of "real progress in the fight against antisemitism." Mark Rienzi, a lawyer who represented the students and professor, had sharp words for campus leaders. "Campus administrators across the country willingly bent the knee to antisemites during the encampments, said Rienzi, president of Becket, a nonprofit firm that takes on religious liberty cases. "They are now on notice: Treating Jews like second-class citizens is wrong, illegal, and very costly. UCLA should be commended for accepting judgment against that misbehavior and setting the precedent that allowing mistreatment of Jews violates the Constitution and civil rights laws." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UC regents chair Janet Reilly said that the agreement "reflects a critically important goal that we share with the plaintiffs: to foster a safe, secure and inclusive environment for all members of our community and ensure that there is no room for antisemitism anywhere on campus." "Antisemitism, harassment, and other forms of intimidation are antithetical to our values and have no place at the University of California," Reilly said. "We have been clear about where we have fallen short, and we are committed to doing better moving forward." Thomas B. Harvey, a Los Angeles civil rights attorney who had filed a motion before the settlement took place on behalf of student and faculty pro-Palestinian activists to join the lawsuit, said he was disappointed with the result. "The allegation that members of the Palestine Solidarity Encampment excluded Jewish people because of their religion is outrageous," said Harvey. "UCLA laid down and refused to fight the case. The court conflates antisemitism and anti-Zionism, threatening their exercise of religion and free speech." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: 'Worst-case scenario of famine' is happening in Gaza, food crisis experts warn The 2024 encampment The student lawsuit stems from the days-long pro-Palestinian encampment that protesters erected on the UCLA quad in front of Royce Hall in late April 2024. Pro-Palestinian activists were demanding the university divest from companies with ties to Israel's war in Gaza. The encampment became a global news story after a melee instigated by pro-Israel counter-demonstrators erupted. UCLA and law enforcement's failure to quickly stop the violence sparked intense criticism. The people involved hurled objects, sprayed irritants and tossed fireworks attacks that continued for hours until officers from the Los Angeles Police Department and the California Highway Patrol quelled the violence. Before the violence, some Jewish students voiced dismay over "checkpoints," to entry, saying they were excluded from passing through the encampment because they supported the existence of Israel. At the time, some students defended restricting access to the encampment, telling The Times it was needed to keep "agitators" from entering and endangering protesters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calling UCLA a "hotbed of antisemitism" with a "rampant anti-Jewish environment," Jewish students sued the UC regents and several school officials in June 2024, alleging that the encampment blocked their access to part of campus, violating their civil rights. The professor later joined the suit. The suit also alleged that the university's "cowardly abdication of its duty to ensure unfettered access to UCLA's educational opportunities" violated the students' freedom of speech and other rights. The plaintiffs blamed UCLA because university security workers re-enforced the encampment with bike racks and school leaders initially did not order it to be cleared. UCLA said at the time it's actions were aimed at de-escalation and safety. Among the six individual defendants in the case are former UCLA Chancellor Gene D. Block, who stepped down at the end of July 2024; and Michael V. Drake, president of the University of California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plaintiffs included recent UCLA law graduates Yitzchok Frankel and Eden Shemuelian and undergraduate Joshua Ghayoum. "When antisemites were terrorizing Jews and excluding them from campus, UCLA chose to protect the thugs and help keep Jews out, said Frankel. "That was shameful, and it is sad that my own school defended those actions for more than a year. But todays court judgment brings justice back to our campus and ensures Jews will be safe and be treated equally once again. Read more: Being Jewish on campus amid Trump's campaign against antisemitism: 'tremendous heartache' UCLA's outlook over the suit dimmed a year ago, when the federal judge overseeing the case admonished campus leaders for how they handled the encampment. Scarsi ordered the university to ensure equal access to Jewish students. "In the year 2024, in the United States of America, in the State of California, in the City of Los Angeles, Jewish students were excluded from portions of the UCLA campus because they refused to denounce their faith," Scarsi wrote in the order last July. Pro-Palestinian groups also filed briefs in the case, arguing that the encampment was not antisemitic but anti-Zionist and pointing out that a large segment of its members were Jewish. They also alleged that UCLA's actions in response to the case ended up cutting into academic freedom by limiting campus lessons about Palestinians. New protest rules and restrictions After the unrest of spring 2024, UCLA and the University of California enacted several major changes related to security and how protests would be handled going forward. Now, protesters cannot block paths or wear masks if its to conceal their identity while breaking campus rules, and demonstration areas are restricted, among other changes. UCLA also hired LAPD veteran Steve Lurie to lead the new Office of Campus Safety. Read more: Trump court action accuses UCLA of trying to 'evade responsibility' for alleged antisemitism On Monday, Lurie announced that LAPD veteran Craig Valenzuela would be UCLAs police chief, effective Sept. 1. Valenzuela, a UCLA alumnus who joined the city's police force in 1996, will take over a department that has not had a permanent chief since May 2024, when then-UCLA Police Chief John Thomas was reassigned before resigning in the fall. Thomas faced blame for the police mishandling of violence at the encampment. Although UCLA has increased protest restrictions, added security officers and quickly shut down some pro-Palestinian events since spring 2024, many on campus have said that demonstration policies are unevenly or sporadically enforced. The concern has been repeatedly voiced at UC and campus forums by pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian campus groups. There was another major change on campus: Julio Frenk whose German Jewish father fled Nazi Germany in the 1930s becoming chancellor on Jan. 1. Three months later, Frenk banned Students for Justice in Palestine as a campus organization after a protest the group held in front of a UC regents house that was vandalized. Frenk also launched a campuswide initiative to combat antisemitism. What comes next Tuesday's lawsuit settlement may not be the end of the case. Scarsi, in a court order upon learning of the settlement, said there would be a 45-day period when he could reopen the case if there is a "showing of good cause why the settlement cannot be completed." Pro-Palestinian individuals who were part of the encampment asked the judge in a court filing Tuesday to allow them to join as a party to the case. Their argument: The settlement is inappropriate and will harm students and faculty. UCLA "never challenged the wholly unsupported, false, and ridiculous allegations that the Palestine Solidarity Encampment, which, in fact, included Jewish faculty, students, and community members who held Shabbat and Seder services, was a so-called 'Jew exclusion zone,' " the encampment participants wrote in a court filing. UCLA's "core claim is false, and the relief sought from it is intended to violate student, faculty, and campus community rights, rather than to protect the rights to free expression on campus." Times staff writer Libor Jany contributed to this report. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The University of California, Los Angeles, reached a $6 million settlement with three Jewish students and a Jewish professor whose lawsuit against the university argued it violated their civil rights by allowing pro-Palestinian protesters in 2024 to block their access to classes and other areas on campus. The settlement comes nearly a year after a preliminary injunction was issued, marking the first time a U.S. judge had ruled against a university over their handling of on-campus demonstrations against Israel's war in Gaza. UCLA initially had argued that it had no legal responsibility over the issue because protesters, not the university, blocked Jewish students access to areas. The university also worked with law enforcement to thwart attempts to set up new protest camps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi disagreed and ordered UCLA to create a plan to protect Jewish students on campus. The University of California, one of the nations largest public university systems, has since created systemwide campus guidelines on protests. How the university handled dispersing the encampment in the spring drew widespread criticism. One night, counterprotesters attacked the pro-Palestinian encampment, throwing traffic cones and firing pepper spray, with fighting that continued for hours, injuring more than a dozen people, before police stepped in. The next day, after hundreds defied orders to leave, more than 200 people were arrested. Trump administration joins lawsuit filed by Jewish students In March, the Trump administration joined the lawsuit filed by the Jewish students and Jewish professor as it opened new investigations into allegations of antisemitism at Columbia University; the University of California, Berkeley; the University of Minnesota; Northwestern University and Portland State University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Columbia agreed to pay $200 million as part of a settlement to resolve investigations into alleged violations of federal antidiscrimination laws and restore more than $400 million in research grants. The Trump administration plans to use its deal with Columbia as a template for other universities, with financial penalties that are now seen as an expectation for future agreements. Government finds UCLA violated civil rights of Jewish students On Tuesday, the Trump administration announced the U.S. Department of Justices Civil Rights Division found UCLA violated the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, by acting with deliberate indifference in creating a hostile educational environment for Jewish and Israeli students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UCLA failed to take timely and appropriate action in response to credible claims of harm and hostility on its campus, said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division. The university has said that it's committed to campus safety and will continue to implement recommendations. "Todays settlement reflects a critically important goal that we share with the plaintiffs: to foster a safe, secure and inclusive environment for all members of our community and ensure that there is no room for antisemitism anywhere on campus, University of California Board of Regents Chair Janet Reilly said in a statement. UCLA agrees to granting students equal access Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the settlement agreement, UCLA must ensure Jewish students, faculty and staff are not excluded from anything on-campus. The $6.13 million settlement will pay the plaintiffs' damages and legal fees. About $2.3 million will go to eight organizations that combat antisemitism, the university said. Pro-Palestinian protesters also sue university A group of 35 pro-Palestinian students, faculty members, legal observers, journalists and activists also has filed a lawsuit against UCLA, alleging the university failed to protect those who participated in the demonstrations. Some Jewish students have also taken part in protests on campuses around the country against Israel's war in Gaza. During the 2014 protests at UCLA, at least 15 pro-Palestinian protesters were injured and the tepid response by authorities drew criticism from political leaders as well as Muslim students and advocacy groups. The United Kingdom has condemned the Russian attacks on Zaporizhzhia Oblast and Kamianske, a city near Dnipro, that took place on the night of 28-29 July and killed 20 civilians. Source: European Pravda with reference to the UK Embassy Details: The embassy noted that Russia had once again targeted civilian infrastructure, citing the strike on a penitentiary facility in Zaporizhzhia Oblast and an attack on Kamianske that damaged a hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Kremlin is not serious about peace. The UK will continue to ramp up the pressure on Russia," the statement says. Russia is terrorising Ukrainian civilians. Last night glide bombs hit a detention facility killing at least 16 and injuring 35. A maternity hospital was damaged, and 2 people died. The Kremlin is not serious about peace. The UK will continue to ramp up the pressure on Russia. pic.twitter.com/D8uN60TZ8x UK in Ukraine (@UKinUkraine) July 29, 2025 Background: According to the latest reports, the strike on a penitentiary facility in Zaporizhzhia Oblast late on 28 July killed 17 people and injured 42. Three people were killed in Kamianske, including a 23-year-old pregnant woman. On 28 July, US President Donald Trump announced a new deadline for Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin to resolve the war he launched against Ukraine, setting a timeframe of 10 to 12 days. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! By Andrew MacAskill and William James LONDON (Reuters) - Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Tuesday Britain was prepared to recognise a Palestinian state in September at the United Nations General Assembly in response to growing public anger over the images of starving children in Gaza. Starmer spoke a day after talks in Scotland with U.S. President Donald Trump, who said he did "not mind" if Britain recognised a Palestinian state, though Washington - Israel's closest ally - has long declined to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Britain, if it acts, would become the second Western power on the U.N. Security Council to do so after France last week, reflecting Israel's deepening isolation over its conduct in its war against Hamas in Gaza, where a humanitarian disaster has set in and the Palestinian death toll has risen above 60,000. Starmer said Britain would make the move unless Israel took substantive steps to allow more aid to enter Gaza, made clear there will be no annexation of the West Bank and committed to a long-term peace process that delivers a "two-state solution" - a Palestinian state co-existing in peace alongside Israel. "The Palestinian people have endured terrible suffering," Starmer told reporters. "Now, in Gaza, because of a catastrophic failure of aid, we see starving babies, children too weak to stand, images that will stay with us for a lifetime. The suffering must end." Starmer held a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before making his announcement, said a source, who asked not to be named. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response, Israel's foreign ministry said in a post on X that Britain's move constitutes a "reward for Hamas" and would harm efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza. The sight of emaciated Gaza children has shocked the world in recent days. Earlier on Tuesday, a hunger monitor warned that worst-case scenario of famine was unfolding in Gaza and immediate action was needed to avoid widespread death. Israel has denied pursuing a policy of starvation. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday the situation in Gaza was "tough" but there were lies circulating about starvation there. With international criticism intensifying, Israel announced steps over the weekend to ease aid access. But the U.N. World Food Programme said it was not getting the permissions it needed to deliver enough aid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PARTY PRESSURE Starmer's decision marks a striking reversal in policy after he last week disappointed many in his party by rejecting calls to recognise a Palestinian state, saying the timing must be right as part of a wider peace process. In recent days, Starmer has been increasingly vocal about the crisis in Gaza, saying this week that the people there faced an "absolute catastrophe" and the British public were "revolted" by the scenes of mass hunger and desperation. Starmer said that before taking a final decision his government would make an assessment in September on "how far the parties have met these steps", but that no one would have a veto over the decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He spoke after recalling his cabinet during the summer holidays on Tuesday to discuss a new proposed peace plan being worked on with other European leaders and how to deliver more humanitarian aid for Gaza's 2.2 million people. Successive British governments have said they will formally recognise a Palestinian state when the time is right, without ever setting a timetable or specifying the necessary conditions. Some lawmakers in Britain's governing Labour Party said they thought Starmer had been reluctant to formally recognise a Palestinian state because it would mean distancing itself from the position of its closest ally, the United States. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called France's announcement last week recognising a Palestinian state a "reckless decision". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China and Russia are the only other world powers that are permanent members of the U.N. Security Council to recognise a Palestinian state. SHIFTING POSITIONS The issue of recognition for a Palestinian state - seen as a powerful diplomatic lever to put pressure on Israel - came to the fore after President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday France would recognise Palestine as a state in territories Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East war. Israel and staunch supporter the United States blasted France's move, branding it a reward for Palestinian Hamas militants who ran Gaza and whose attack on Israel on October 7, 2023 triggered the current war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the start of the Gaza war in October 2023, when Starmer was the opposition leader, he fully backed Israel's right to defend itself. But his stance has shifted over the years to a tougher approach to Israel, especially since his election as prime minister just over a year ago. His government dropped the previous governments challenge over arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and has suspended some weapon sales to Israel. Last month, Britain sanctioned two far-right Israeli cabinet ministers, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, accusing them of repeatedly inciting violence against Palestinians. (Reporting by Andrew MacAskill and William James; additional reporting by Catarina Demony in London, Scott Malone in Washington, Michelle Nichols in New York and Andrea Shalal in Edinburghl; editing by Mark Heinrich) By Andrew MacAskill and Sarah Young LONDON (Reuters) -British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will hold an emergency cabinet on Tuesday to discuss the situation in Gaza and a proposed peace plan as he comes under mounting pressure from his own party to recognise a Palestinian state. Starmer has taken the rare step of recalling his cabinet during the summer holidays to discuss how to deliver more humanitarian aid to Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Scotland on Monday, Starmer discussed the need for a ceasefire in Gaza and what he called the "revolting" humanitarian crisis. Britain is working on the plan with France and Germany after a call between the leaders of the three countries last week. Starmer has not shared details of the plan, but over the weekend he compared the proposals to the "coalition of the willing", the international effort to support Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire in its war with Russia. Starmer's spokesman said he would discuss the plan with other international allies and countries in the Middle East. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement War has raged in Gaza between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas for the past 22 months. Israel has been facing growing international criticism, which its government rejects, over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. With warnings people in Gaza are facing starvation, growing numbers of lawmakers in Starmer's Labour Party want him to recognise a Palestinian state to put pressure on Israel. British foreign minister David Lammy will attend a United Nations conference in New York on Tuesday to urge support for a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. Successive British governments have said they will formally recognise a Palestinian state when the time is right, without ever setting a timetable or specifying the necessary conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue has come to the fore after President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday France would recognise Palestine as a state. Starmer has so far rejected plans to immediately recognise a Palestinian state, saying he was focused on "practical solutions". Last week, more than 200 British members of parliament from nine parties signed a letter Friday calling for an immediate recognition of a Palestinian state. (Reporting by Andrew MacAskill, Editing by Paul Sandle) Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Tuesday the UK will formally recognise the State of Palestine in September unless Israel takes various "substantive steps", including agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza. The potentially landmark move, part of Starmer's plan for a "lasting peace", came after the British leader recalled his cabinet from recess for urgent talks on the worsening situation in the besieged territory. Starmer's move, paired with Paris also saying it will recognise a Palestinian state in September, would make the two European allies the first G7 nations to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a televised Downing Street address immediately after the cabinet meeting, Starmer said the UK will recognise a Palestinian state if Israel has not taken the steps demanded by the time the UN General Assembly is held in September. It must "end the appalling situation in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire and commit to a long-term, sustainable peace, reviving the prospect" of a two-state solution, he added. "I've always said we will recognise a Palestinian state as a contribution to a proper peace process, at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution," Starmer said. "With that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded, saying: "Starmer rewards Hamass monstrous terrorism & punishes its victims." "A jihadist state on Israel's border TODAY will threaten Britain TOMORROW. Appeasement towards jihadist terrorists always fails. It will fail you too. It will not happen," he posted on the social media platform X. The UK leader also detailed several demands for militant group Hamas, which is holding Israeli hostages seized in its attacks on October 7, 2023. "They must immediately release all of the hostages, sign up to a ceasefire, disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - 'Hand of history' - Israel's foreign ministry also said it "rejects" the UK move, arguing it "constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza". Starmer spoke to Netanyahu before the announcement, telling him "the situation in Gaza was intolerable," a Downing Street spokeswoman said. "He urged the prime minister to take immediate action to lift all restrictions on aid access," she added in a readout of the call. Starmer also talked to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, who "welcomed" the recognition announcement, the spokeswoman noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UK move follows French President Emmanuel Macron announcing last week that Paris would recognise a Palestinian state during the UN General Assembly meeting on September 23. Although more than 140 countries already recognise the State of Palestine, none of them carry the weight of Britain and France, who are nuclear-armed allies of Israel with permanent seats on the UN Security Council. On Tuesday, France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot welcomed London joining "the momentum created by France" to "stop the endless cycle of violence". Macron's announcement drew a strong rebuke from both Israel and fellow G7 member the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer said Tuesday his government "will make an assessment in September on how far the parties have met" the demands. But he insisted: "No one should have a veto over our decision." Britain's Foreign Secretary David Lammy, attending a UN conference in New York led by France and Saudi Arabia to promote the two-state solution, echoed the sentiment. Lammy said it was "with the hand of history on our shoulders" that London planned to recognise Palestinian statehood, given Britain's pivotal role in Israel's creation through the 1917 Balfour Declaration. - 'Suffering' - Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer has been under growing domestic and international pressure to formally recognise a Palestinian state. More than 220 British lawmakers from nine parties including Labour published a letter last Friday urging him to take the step. It was included in Labour's election-winning manifesto last year, as part of "a two-state solution with a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state". But the pressure has risen as the humanitarian situation in Gaza has dramatically worsened. "The Palestinian people have endured terrible suffering," Starmer said in his TV address, adding it "must end". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His office said the UK had dropped its first aid, including "lifesaving supplies", by air Tuesday into Gaza, with the help of Jordan. The UK leader thanked its king, Abdullah II, in a call. "However, they agreed that this could not be a substitute for truck deliveries by land, which are the only way to deliver the level of food and other aid urgently needed," Starmer's spokeswoman said. jwp-jj/gv/tc/tym The UK will recognise a Palestinian state in September unless Israel takes "substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza", Sir Keir Starmer has said. The PM said Israel must also meet other conditions, including agreeing to a ceasefire, committing to a long-term sustainable peace that delivers a two-state solution, and allowing the United Nations to restart the supply of aid, or the UK would take the step at September's UN General Assembly. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the move "rewards Hamas's monstrous terrorism". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UK government has previously said recognition should come at a point when it can have maximum impact, as part of a peace process. However, the PM has been under growing pressure - including from his own MPs - to act more quickly. Last week France also announced it would officially recognise a Palestinian state in September - the first of the G7 group of the world's richest countries to do so. Giving a news conference after holding an emergency cabinet meeting, Sir Keir said he was announcing the plan now because of the "intolerable situation" in Gaza and concern that "the very possibility of a two-state solution is reducing". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He told reporters that the UK's goal of "a safe secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state" was "under pressure like never before". The PM added that his "primary aim" was to improve the situation on the ground in Gaza, including ensuring that aid gets in. In outlining the steps UK wanted the Israeli government to take, Sir Keir also said it should make clear there will be no annexations in the West Bank. The current Israeli government is opposed to progress towards a two-state solution so it is highly unlikely to agree to the conditions. Meanwhile, Sir Keir said Hamas must immediately release all hostages, sign up to a ceasefire, disarm and accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the announcement Netanyahu wrote on social media: "A jihadist state on Israel's border TODAY will threaten Britain TOMORROW. "Appeasement towards jihadist terrorists always fails. It will fail you too. It will not happen." Asked if he knew the PM's statement was coming, Donald Trump said the pair "never discussed it" during their meeting on Monday, when the US president was in Scotland. He told reporters: "You could make the case... that you are rewarding Hamas if you do that. And I don't think they should be rewarded." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US - along with many European nations - has said it would only recognise a Palestinian state as part of moves towards a long-term resolution to the conflict. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey welcomed the government's announcement as "a crucial step" but urged the PM to recognise a Palestinian state immediately, and pursue "far greater action to stop the humanitarian disaster in Gaza". He added: "Rather than use recognition, which should have taken place many months ago, as a bargaining chip, the prime minister should be applying pressure on Israel by fully ceasing arms sales, and implementing sanctions against the Israeli cabinet." Some 255 MPs have signed a letter calling for the government to immediately recognise a Palestinian state - including more than half of Labour MPs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Labour MP Sarah Champion, who coordinated the letter, said she was "delighted and relieved" at the announcement. "This will put political pressure on Israel and make clear what's happening in Gaza and the West Bank is totally unacceptable," she said. "However, I'm troubled our recognition appears conditional on Israel's actions. "Israel is the occupier, and recognition is about the self-determination of the Palestinian people. The two should be separate." The Conservatives and Reform UK have said now is not the right time to take the step, arguing this would reward Hamas for their attack on Israel on 7 October 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said recognising a Palestinian state "won't bring the hostages home, won't end the war and won't get aid into Gaza". "This is political posturing at its very worst," she added. The announcement comes after a call between Sir Keir and the leaders of France and Germany over the weekend, when Downing Street said plans for a sustainable route to a two-state solution were discussed. However, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said his government had no plans to recognise a Palestinian state in the near future, suggesting this may be "one of the last steps on a path to realising a two-state solution". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most countries - about 139 in all - formally recognise a Palestinian state. Spain, Ireland and Norway took the step last year, hoping to exert diplomatic pressure to secure a ceasefire in Gaza. Palestinian representatives currently have limited rights to participate in UN activity, and the territory is also recognised by various international organisations, including the Arab League. Sceptics argue recognition is largely be a symbolic gesture unless questions over the leadership and extent of a Palestinian state are addressed first. As Sir Keir made his announcement, Foreign Secretary David Lammy addressed a UN conference in New York, aimed at advancing a two-state solution to the conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lammy told reporters the UK had worked with Jordan to air-drop 20 tonnes of aid to Gaza in recent days, as he also called for aid trucks to be allowed to enter by land. UN agencies have described the situation in Gaza as "man-made mass starvation", blaming the humanitarian crisis on Israel, which controls the entry of all supplies to the territory. Israel has insisted there are no restrictions on aid deliveries and that there is "no starvation". [BBC] Sign up for our Politics Essential newsletter to keep up with the inner workings of Westminster and beyond. The Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) has called on its partners to boycott events involving the Russian delegation led by Valentina Matviyenko at an international conference in Geneva. Matviyenko is the speaker of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation, which is subject to sanctions. Source: European Pravda; Olena Kondratiuk, Verkhovna Rada Deputy Speaker, who will represent Ukraine Details: Kondratiuk called on other parliament speakers attending the global conference in Geneva to avoid any interaction with Matviyenko, who was allowed to attend the conference in Geneva despite sanctions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deputy speaker added that she was shocked by the presence of the Russian delegation led by Matviyenko. Quote from Kondratiuk: "I call on the participants of the speakers' conference to boycott any public events involving this international criminal, Matviyenko. Any joint photo or handshake with her means siding with the aggressor. And this will inevitably be used by Russian propaganda to justify the crimes of the Russian Federation... We cannot allow the shameful presence of criminals without any reaction. Persons who are under sanctions cannot fly freely to international gatherings! They cannot spread their narratives at the most representative venues. What then is the point of sanctions?" More details: In referencing the conference, Kondratiuk noted that she plans to speak about what Ukraine is going through in regards to the war, remind people about the children abducted by Russia, and also call for tougher sanctions. Background: Foreign Ministry spokesman Heorhii Tykhii said that Matvienko's place is "in the dock, not at international conferences", and that her admission to Geneva "is shameful and should not have happened". The World Conference of Speakers of Parliament meets once every five years. This is the first such event since the start of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Previously, North Macedonia and Malta, which chaired the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), allowed a Russian delegation led by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to participate in a ministerial meeting, despite the war and sanctions. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The Russian secret services have been spreading fake news intended to destabilise the situation in Ukraine, claiming that Kyrylo Budanov, Head of Ukraines Defence Intelligence, Andrii Yermak, Head of the President's Office, and Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukraine's Ambassador to the UK, met in secret in the Alps and plotted to "replace Zelenskyy". Source: Defence Intelligence of Ukraine on Telegram Quote: "Top-rank propagandists of the aggressor state of Russia, together with the Kremlins numerous gutter press resources, are spreading disinformation about a secret meeting alleged to have taken place in the Alps between Ukrainian military and state figures and representatives of the US and the UK. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lie, cobbled together by Sergey Naryshkin [Director of the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service ed.] and stamped by the foreign intelligence service of the aggressor state of Russia, aims to heighten public tension in Ukraine, sow mistrust within the military and political leadership, shift public focus from the war to elections, provoke discord and weaken our states ability to offer armed resistance to the Russian occupiers." Background: Earlier, Russian propaganda agencies circulated a statement from the Foreign Intelligence Service of the Russian Federation claiming that representatives of the US and the UK had "organised a meeting in the Alps attended by Yermak, Budanov and Zaluzhnyi at which the prospects of replacing Zelenskyy were discussed". Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed bill No. 2038 on recognising Ukrainians who were forcibly resettled from Poland in 1944-1951 as deportees. This bill was registered in 2019. Source: Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) Details: Affected citizens will receive a one-time aid payment, the amount of which will be determined by the Cabinet of Ministers (Ukrainian government). If a forcibly deported person has died, their heirs are entitled to the payment: their wife or husband and in their absence, their children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has just signed an important law restoring the memory of Ukrainians who were forcibly deported from Poland between 1944 and 1951. This is a correct and dignified step that restores historical justice regarding this horrific crime. [...] Sadly, many witnesses of those tragic events have already passed away. However, in order to protect the rights of those who are still with us and their descendants, our state guarantees the provision of aid as provided for by law," emphasised Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. The explanatory note states that the deportation occurred due to agreements between the authorities of the former Soviet Union and the Polish People's Republic in September 1944 and February 1951. During this period, approximately 632,000 indigenous Ukrainians were deported from Poland. Approximately 482,000 of which were removed from Zakerzonia [territories of Poland to the west of the Curzon Line, which used to have sizeable Ukrainian populations]. The remaining 150,000 were deported from the Lemko region, Nadsiannia region, Chem Land, Podlachia, Liubachivshchyna, and Western Boikivshchyna in northwestern Poland during Operation Vistula in 1947. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: The Verkhovna Rada adopted a bill introducing separate liability for deportation and unjustified delay in the bringing back of children, in particular by representatives of Russia and Belarus. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Martin Selasco never expected the rhythms of his youth to become a vehicle for both personal identity and musical revolution. But with his project Terror/Cactus, the Argentine American producer is doing just thatspinning cumbia into something hypnotic, electronic, and wildly improvisational, all while staying rooted in Latinidad. Read more: Gilberto Gil Announces Retirement from the Stage After More Than 60 Years of Musical Legacy Terror/Cactus' latest release, a two-track single titled La Pantera and Descalzo, dropped this week via New York-based label Names You Can Trust. And this time, Selasco's sonic journey includes a new guest: acclaimed Seattle jazz reedist Kate Olson, who lends baritone sax and clarinet to his borderless sound. For Selasco, who was born in Buenos Aires and raised in Miami by a record-label-owning father, Latin music was never just background noiseit was the soundtrack of cultural belonging. "Cumbia is what brings me back home," he says. "Even if I'm living in the Pacific Northwest." Cumbia, originally a folkloric style from Colombia, has been reinvented over decades across Latin America. In Mexico, it's gritty and urban; in Peru, it's psychedelic; in Argentina, it flirts with pop and indie. Selasco absorbs them all and remixes them into something newa sound that speaks to the children of immigrants and the underground Latinx scenes thriving far from the mainstream spotlight. "Growing up between cultures, I felt like I didn't fully belong to any one place," he says. "But cumbiaits rhythm, its adaptabilityhas always felt like home. It's like a heartbeat that connects all of us." That heartbeat pulses through La Pantera, the A-side of the new single. A track that opens with swirling synths and minimalist percussion soon morphs into something both wild and elegant. Olson's baritone sax grumbles underneath the beat like a feline ready to pounceprecisely the vibe Selasco was aiming for. "She added these expressive growls and squeals that just brought the whole track to life," he says. On the B-side, Descalzo, Olson switches to clarinet, crafting a dreamy, noir atmosphere over eerie guitar lines. "It's like the score to a film that doesn't exist yet," Selasco says, laughing. "Something shadowy and Latin American, maybe something set in a jungle at night." Read more Jazz Royalty Returns to Miami: Adrienne Arsht Center Announces 2025-26 JAZZ ROOTS Series with Miles Davis Tribute, Sheila E. and More Jazz Royalty Returns to Miami: Adrienne Arsht Center Announces 2025-26 JAZZ ROOTS Series with Miles Davis Tribute, Sheila E. and More The release arrives as Terror/Cactus prepares for a standout performance at Washington's THING Festival on August 16a rare all-Latin music day where Selasco will share the stage with Mexican DJ and percussionist Pahua. "It's a dream to be part of a lineup that reflects the diversity of Latin music today," he says. "You'll hear everything from electronica to folk to reggaetonand yes, plenty of cumbia." Although many of Terror/Cactus's recordings are created soloSelasco often composes, records, mixes, and edits in his home studiohe thrives on collaboration. "Sometimes I start a track and immediately hear someone's voice or instrument in my head," he says. "Other times, we just jam and see what happens. That's how the best magic happens." His collaboration with Olson is a testament to that. While their musical backgrounds differshe's a mainstay in Seattle's jazz and experimental scenesboth artists share a love for risk-taking. "I love working with jazz musicians because they understand space and spontaneity," Selasco says. "They leave room for the unexpected." Up next for Terror/Cactus is a string of remixes from his acclaimed 2024 album Forastero. First up: Donde Estas Tu remixed by genre-bending Seattle artist Chong the Nomad, out July 18. "Remixing is part of our Latin tradition too," Selasco says. "We've always borrowed, sampled, reinvented. It's how we survive and thrive." As the U.S. Latin music scene grows more diversestretching beyond reggaeton and trap to include everything from alt-folklore to avant-garde cumbiaartists like Selasco are leading the charge from the margins. "People forget that Latin music is not one sound," he says. "It's hundreds of stories, of migrations, of ancestors dancing in the kitchen. This music helps us remember who we areand who we can become." Whether you're a jazz head, a cumbia purist, or just a curious listener, La Pantera and Descalzo offer a thrilling new chapter in Latin music's ever-evolving tale. Ukrainian drones struck a railway station in the city of Salsk in the Rostov region overnight, the third time in as many days that this key rail line has been hit. The Russians use this line to supply troops in the occupied Crimea, Donetsk and Luhansk regions. The strikes are part of a larger Ukrainian effort to disrupt Russian rail traffic deep behind the front lines, some 155 miles to the west. Rail is the backbone of logistics for Russia, which moves the vast majority of its equipment and supplies by train. It appears that the drones striking the Salsk station were targeting a train carrying military equipment and fuel and lubricants, according to the Ukrainian Khorne Group military unit. The target of the drone strike was a military train of the Russian occupation forces moving toward the Ukrainian border, the Ukrainian Militarnyi media outlet suggested. The local governor of the Salsk district reported hits on two tank cars and the locomotive, according to Radio Svaboda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video emerging on social media showed the moment the drones hit the station, explosions resulting in flames and train cars burning. The attack delayed 18 passenger trains for upwards of seven hours, Russian Railway officials reported, according to the official Russian RIA Novosti media outlet. Moment of the drone attack on Russian train station in Salsk, Rostov region. https://t.co/H8Lq57wDtk pic.twitter.com/pKjZ9qD7BV Special Kherson Cat (@bayraktar_1love) July 29, 2025 One of the shared pictures shows a burning military truck on a flatbed railcar. Militarnyi noted that this suggests the attack might have targeted a military train headed toward the Ukrainian border. Telegram / Ukraine context | russia no context pic.twitter.com/NFprEh1Vh4 Euromaidan Press (@EuromaidanPress) July 29, 2025 Rostov region, the consequences of a UAV strike on a train with fuel tanks. pic.twitter.com/dffq93PLX2 MilitaryNewsUA (@front_ukrainian) July 29, 2025 In addition to striking the rail station, Ukrainian drones also struck a train line power substation in the town of Orlovsky on Tuesday, according to the Ukrainian Exilenova+ Telegram channel. The substation is located about 35 miles northeast of Salsk and helps provide power for this line. Rostov, Orlovsky District A Ukrainian drone strike hit the railway station. See the latest updates with us: @visionergeopic.twitter.com/8kuHn6Ieyc Visioner (@visionergeo) July 29, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed that its forces shot down 74 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 22 over Rostov Oblast. Tuesdays attacks follow a strike on Sunday in the Volgograd region at an electrical substation that powers the same rail line. As a result of drone debris falling, power supply to the railway contact network in the Oktyabrsky district was disrupted. Specialists from operational and repair services, as well as Russian Railways, are working on the site to assess the damage and eliminate the consequences, the regional governor stated, according to the independent Russian ASTRA news outlet. A night drone strike set a railway power substation in Russia's Volgograd Oblast ablaze, cutting rail power near Zhutovo and halting flights. Russia's military logistics heavily depend on railway transportation. TG/Exilenova+ pic.twitter.com/ulXZnun09u Euromaidan Press (@EuromaidanPress) July 27, 2025 Last week, Ukrainian drones attacked another key railway hub in this region, Militarnyi reported. The attack took place in the urban-type settlement of Kamenolomna, the publication explained. Kamenolomni is one of the major railway junctions in the southern corridor and holds significant strategic importance. The station is located in southern Russia, along the route Rostov-on-Don Taganrog Donetsk, and plays an important role in the transportation of military equipment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These railway strikes have repeatedly targeted infrastructure along the rail line, which serves both industry and the supply of Russian forces, including those in Donetsk and Luhansk, a well-known Ukrainian milblogger and reserve officer who goes by the pseudonym Tatarigami noted on X. The pattern points to a deliberate and systematic effort to disrupt the route. Overall, our team notes a systematic approach with deliberate target selection, added Tatarigami, founder of Frontelligence Insight, an all-source/OSINT/GEOINT analytical group. The strike on the fuel-carrying train suggests Ukraine had detailed intelligence to time the attack precisely. 7/ We previously noted that this railway line is important due to its links to major military-industrial sites and installations, including airfields. At the same time, its neither the largest nor the only line in the area, suggesting deeper intent behind the strikes Tatarigami_UA (@Tatarigami_UA) July 29, 2025 Ukraine is also attacking rail lines much closer to the front lines, in territory occupied by Russia. In May, the Ukrainian Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR) carried out a drone attack on a Russian fuel train in the Zaporizhzhia region. It was reportedly the first such attack inside Ukraine in five months. At least three fuel tankers were destroyed, GUR said in a release accompanying a video it published showing multiple aerial hits on the moving target, resulting in large explosions and heavy fire. May 24, 2025, Ukraines GUR struck a Russian fuel train with OWA-UAV's IVO 47.091981, 35.318199 Novobohdanivka, Zaporizhia. 3+ tank cars and 50,000+ gallons fuel destroyed 1+ box car damaged/destroyed This is the first attack on Russian Trains in Occupied Ukraine in 5 pic.twitter.com/jumYrqMtpR Intelschizo (@Schizointel) May 25, 2025 GUR isnt just relying on drone strikes in this campaign. The intelligence directorate also works with locals who support Ukraine. The partisans have been carrying out sabotage attacks, blowing up rail lines, attacking trains and disabling railway equipment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another successful operation of the resistance movement against the Russian invaders in cooperation with GUR took place on June 26, 2025, in occupied Zaporizhzhia, the directorate claimed. The railway track was destroyed as a result of an explosion, GUR noted. The movement along the section actively used by the Russian invaders for logistics was paralyzed for more than a week. A week later, the partisans struck again, attacking a locomotive. The enemy locomotive was disabled, according to GUR. One of the key logistical branches of the occupation army in the Zaporizhzhia region is blocked again. Russia has also struck Ukrainian rail. Last month, a missile attack on a passenger train in Dnipro injured several people, destroyed several train cars and damaged tracks. It was part of a larger attack on Dnipro that killed at least 21 people. Russians keep getting more and more unhinged and cruel. I dont remember them ever hitting a train full of civilians and children before. Railways, yes but not trains. People inside cant escape Russian missiles. There are many victims. Children are crying and screaming. Its pic.twitter.com/ynlDWsxCgX Victoria (@victoriaslog) June 24, 2025 Russian attacks on rail are far less frequent than the ones carried out by Ukraine, which seem to be increasing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is an uptick [on train attacks] in comparison with 2023 and 2024, for sure, Tatarigami told us. Especially if we are talking about successful, tactical strikes. With the Salsk station still smouldering, it is unclear whether Ukraine intends to hit this line again. There are other Russian train lines of even greater logistical importance, Tatarigami added. The attacks could be part of some kind of shaping operation, ahead of a larger attack, Tatarigami posited. Or its just an isolated case, where Ukraine simply located a vulnerable spot and engaged it, without any further plans. Either way, Russian rail traffic was interrupted, and rolling stock was destroyed. Though the lasting effect is unclear, these attacks come as Ukraine continues to lose ground in the east while being forced to send troops to the northern Sumy region to help defend against a Russian offensive there. Repeated strikes on Russian rail logistics help relieve some of that pressure. While Ukraine has been attacking Russian trains since the all-out invasion began, its new long-range drones allow strikes far deeper into Russian territory. Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com President Donald Trump on Monday sought to increase pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin in a bid to secure an end to Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, announcing that he would shorten a 50-day negotiating window to "10 or 12 days from today." "I'm disappointed in President Putin, very disappointed in him," Trump told reporters during a visit to the U.K. "So we're going to have to look and I'm going to reduce that 50 days that I gave him to lesser number, because I think I already know the answer what's going to happen." "I'm going to make a new deadline of about 10 or 12 days from today," Trump said later in the press conference. "There's no reason in waiting." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I want to be generous, but we just don't see any progress being made," Trump added. "I'm not so interested in talking anymore. He talks, we have such nice conversations, such respectful and nice conversations, and then people die the following night in a -- with a missile going into a town and hitting." Recent months have seen growing White House frustration with Putin, as the Russian leader repeatedly dodged ceasefire proposals while intensifying long-range strikes on Ukrainian cities and its frontline offensives. Christopher Furlong/POOL/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: President Donald Trump speaks during a bilateral meeting with Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the Trump Turnberry Golf Courses, in southwestern Scotland, U.K., on July 28, 2025. Earlier this month, Trump set a 50-day deadline for Russia to accept a ceasefire. Failure to do so, the president said, would prompt punishing new economic measures, among them secondary sanctions on nations doing business with Moscow. Both the U.S. and Ukraine are calling for a full and immediate ceasefire, after which a peace settlement could potentially be negotiated. Moscow, however, has said that negotiations cannot take place until Ukraine makes significant concessions, among them demilitarization, its withdrawal from frontline regions and the abandonment of its NATO ambitions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian leaders welcomed Trump's latest announcement. "Clear stance and expressed determination by POTUS -- right on time, when a lot can change through strength for real peace," President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on X. "I thank President Trump for his focus on saving lives and stopping this horrible war," he continued. "Ukraine remains committed to peace and will work tirelessly with the U.S. to make both our countries safer, stronger, and more prosperous." MORE: Trump sets Putin new Ukraine ceasefire deadline, says he's 'disappointed' in Moscow Zelenskyy's influential chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, thanked Trump in a post to Telegram. "Putin only understands strength -- and this has been communicated clearly and loudly," Yermak said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Tuesday that the Kremlin "took note of President Trump's statement yesterday," though said he "would like to avoid any assessments" of the president's remarks. Dmitry Medvedev -- the former Russian president and prime minister now serving as the deputy chairman of the country's Security Council -- framed Trump's challenge as a dangerous escalation. "Trump's playing the ultimatum game with Russia: 50 days or 10," Medvedev -- who, during Moscow's full-scale war on Ukraine, has become known as a particularly hawkish voice within Putin's security establishment -- wrote on X. "He should remember 2 things: 1. Russia isn't Israel or even Iran. 2. Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country. Don't go down the Sleepy Joe road!" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, cross-border strikes continued regardless. Russia's Defense Ministry said its forces downed 74 Ukrainian drones overnight. Sofiia Gatilova/Reuters - PHOTO: Ukrainian gunners fire a 2S22 Bohdana self-propelled howitzer towards Russian frontline positions in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine on July 27, 2025. Ukraine's air force said Russia launched 37 drones and two missiles into the country overnight, of which 32 drones were intercepted or suppressed. The air force said two missiles and five drones impacted across three locations. In the frontline Zaporizhzhia Oblast in Ukraine's south, the Justice Ministry said a Russian airstrike on a correctional facility killed at least 17 people and wounded 42 others. "This is another war crime by the Russians, who will not stop unless they are stopped," Yermak wrote on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In all, Zelenskyy said Tuesday morning that 22 people were killed by Russian strikes on Ukraine over the previous 24 hours. "Every killing of our people by the Russians, every Russian strike, when a ceasefire could have long been in place if Russia had not refused, all this indicates that Moscow deserves very harsh, truly painful and therefore fair and effective sanctions pressure," the president said in a post to Telegram. ABC News' Will Gretsky, Hannah Demissie, Michelle Stoddart, Lalee Ibssa, Natalia Kushnir and Somayeh Malekian contributed to this report. Key developments on July 29: Trump says Russia tariffs will be imposed in 10 days Ukrainian drones strike train station, rail infrastructure amid large-scale attack on Russia's Rostov Oblast Zelensky signs law allowing citizens over 60 to join military during wartime Ukraine shows footage of FPV drones attacking Russian-held gas rig in first such deployment 'Another proof of Russia's war crimes' Russian air strike on Ukrainian prison kills 16 inmates U.S. President Donald Trump said on July 29 that tariffs on Russia would take effect in 10 days if the Kremlin did not agree to stop the war, according to an audio published by the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tariffs mentioned by Trump are expected to be secondary sanctions on countries that buy Russian oil, gas and other products, such as China and India. "Ten days from today. And then we're gonna put on tariffs and stuff," Trump said in response to a reporter's question before boarding Air Force One. "I don't know if its gonna affect Russia, because he (Russian President Vladimir Putin) wants to obviously probably keep the war going, but we're gonna put tariffs and various things." The remarks follow Trump's earlier ultimatum to Putin on July 14, when he warned that the United States would impose "severe" tariffs of up to 100% if Russia failed to agree to a peace deal in Ukraine within 50 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said on July 28 he was no longer willing to wait that long. "There's no reason in waiting," he said. "It's 50 days, I wanted to be generous, but we just don't see any progress being made. Trump voiced frustration with the Kremlin. We thought we had that settled numerous times, and then President Putin goes out and starts launching rockets into some city like Kyiv and kills a lot of people in a nursing home or whatever," he said. Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us Ukrainian drones strike train station, rail infrastructure amid large-scale attack on Russia's Rostov Oblast Ukraine's military reportedly launched a large-scale drone attack on Russia's Rostov Oblast overnight on July 29, striking a railway station in the town of Salsk, local officials reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Videos posted on social media by local residents and geolocated by the Russian Telegram channel Astra appear to show large flames emanating from the railway station. Confirming the attack, Rostov Oblast Acting Governor Yuri Slusar said on Telegram that a civilian vehicle was damaged, killing the driver. Russian Railways, the state-owned railway operator, reported that the attack damaged overhead power lines, forcing the suspension of train traffic through Salsk station. Ukraine's military rarely comments on drone strikes on Russian territory, although it has regularly targeted the region with drones. Located near the Azov Sea and bordering Ukraine, Rostov Oblast plays a crucial logistical role for Russia's war effort due to its proximity to front-line operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elsewhere in Salsk, located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) southeast of occupied Donetsk Oblast, Ukrainian drones reportedly struck homes as well as vehicles, killing the driver of one of the automobiles, Slusar claimed. The Kyiv Independent cannot verify claims made by Russian officials. Another fire was reported near the village of Orlovsky in Rostov Oblast where a drone reportedly struck a traction substation used power to railway infrastructure. Russia's Defense Ministry claimed that a total of 74 Ukrainian drones were shot down over various regions of the country overnight. Read also: Why Ukraine cant afford to demobilize its soldiers Zelensky signs law allowing citizens over 60 to join military during wartime President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a bill on July 29 allowing Ukrainian citizens over the age of 60 to voluntarily enlist in the military during martial law, the parliament's website shows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The measure enables older volunteers to serve in non-combat and specialized roles, expanding Ukraine's recruitment pool amid continued manpower shortages. Under the new law, people over 60 may sign a one-year contract for military service if they pass a medical commission and are approved by a unit commander. Officer candidates must also be cleared by the General Staff or relevant military authorities. Each new recruit will undergo a two-month probationary period. If deemed unfit during that time, the contract may be terminated early. The law does not establish a maximum age limit for service, but all contracts will be voided automatically once martial law ends. Ukraine faced serious manpower shortages in late 2024 amid a heavy Russian offensive in Donetsk Oblast. The Ukrainian leadership has sought to alleviate the crisis by broadening the mobilization pool and offering new incentives for volunteers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Russia may have received up to 30,000 fresh North Korean troops, boosting its negotiating position Ukraine shows footage of FPV drones attacking Russian-held gas rig in first such deployment Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR) released exclusive footage on July 29 showing the country's first deployment of first-person-view (FPV) drones on the high seas. The video, showing a new phase in Kyiv's maritime drone warfare, documents a previously unreported Sept. 11, 2024, operation off the coast of occupied Crimea. During the raid, Ukraine's Raven Group deployed FPV drones launched from boats in open waters to target Russian forces entrenched on the Petro Hodovalets gas production platform in the Black Sea, which Russia had converted into a military site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HUR claims that the drones helped suppress Russian firepower, causing unspecified personnel and equipment losses. Russia has heavily fortified strategic points across occupied Crimea, including oil and gas platforms, since launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Petro Hodovalets platform, previously used by Russian forces for surveillance and military logistics, was reported by Ukraine to be under its control as of September 2023. Read also: Russias new mobilization law yet another sign Kremlin is preparing for war with NATO, analysts say 'More proof of Russia's war crimes' Russian air strike on Ukrainian prison kills 16 inmates A Russian air strike against a prison in southern Zaporizhzhia Oblast late on July 28 killed 16 convicts and injured nearly a hundred more, Ukraine's State Criminal-Executive Service said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forty-four people were injured and hospitalized, and more than 50 were provided medical assistance on the spot, the authorities said. The State Criminal-Executive Service previously reported one staff member among the injured victims. Moscow's forces struck the Zaporizhzhia district eight times with FAB bombs overnight, destroying prison buildings and damaging nearby houses, Governor Ivan Fedorov said. The prison facility in Bilenke, a village around 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Zaporizhzhia, was hit by four bombs at around 11:30 p.m. on July 28, according to the State Criminal-Executive Service. "The perimeter of the institution was not damaged; there is no threat of escape," the service said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets denounced the attack as a "gross violation of international humanitarian law and yet more proof of Russia's war crimes." "People held in places of detention do not lose their right to life and protection," Lubinets said on Telegram. The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) decried the attack and said that it may amount to a serious violation of international humanitarian law in a July 29 statement. Prisoners are civilians, and they must be protected under international humanitarian law, Danielle Bell, head of HRMMU, said in the statement. Note from the author: Ukraine War Latest is put together by the Kyiv Independent news desk team, who keep you informed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you value our work and want to ensure we have the resources to continue, join the Kyiv Independent community. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Fedir Shandor, Ukraines Ambassador to Hungary, believes that Russia plays a significant role in fuelling anti-Ukrainian sentiment in Hungary, particularly in relation to recent "anti-Hungarian incidents" in Ukraines Zakarpattia Oblast. Source: Shandor in an interview with Ukrinform news agency, as reported by European Pravda Details: Shandor was asked whether officials in Budapest had taken Ukraines arguments into account following two recent summonses to Hungarys Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The first regarded the death of a mobilised Zakarpattia resident with Hungarian citizenship, and the second related to the arson attack on a church in the village of Palad-Komarivtsi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shandor confirmed they had, noting that otherwise these topics would have continued to escalate. "We understand who is really behind these information attacks, while the Hungarian side, unfortunately, often reacts too emotionally without verifying the facts The question is, who benefits from this? Only one party Russia, which seeks to divide us and inflame conflicts not only on the battlefield but also in diplomacy, the economy, culture and human relations. Political cycles eventually end and governments sit down at the negotiating table. But whether societies can overcome these cultural traumas remains an open question," he said. Shandor said that after photos of anti-Hungarian slogans on apartment blocks in the city of Mukachevo went viral, no actual evidence of the inscriptions was found. "These photos were eight years old they were simply pulled from archives and passed to Hungarian media through certain individuals. We can see where this is coming from the Russian embassy and Kremlin-funded media outlets. They spare no money: bots spread fake news, and Hungarian officials respond," the ambassador added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Orban seeks "war" between Hungary and Ukraine: why, and what are the dangers? He went on to say that the incident involving the arson attack on a church also appeared to be a staged provocation, as reports in the Hungarian media emerged just half an hour after investigators had finished their work at the scene. "When theres agitation coming from all sides, the reaction is instant: Our people are under attack. This suggests the entire situation was calculated from the provocation to the response," the ambassador noted. "The aggressor state, Russia, which knows nothing of moral boundaries, employs dirty tactics in various countries: in Poland through the issue of the Volyn tragedy, in Slovakia through the Rusyn issue. The idea is the same everywhere: Ukrainians must quarrel with Hungarians, with Poles, with Slovaks. But we must keep a cool head... Our emotional reactions to these political manipulations only serve the interests of anti-Ukrainian forces," said Fedir Shandor. [The Volyn (Volhynia) tragedy was a series of events that led to the ethnic cleansing of the Polish and Ukrainian populations in 1943 during World War II. It was part of a long-standing rivalry between Ukrainians and Poles in what is now Ukraine's west. Poland considers the Volyn tragedy a genocide of Poles ed.] Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has described US President Donald Trumps decision to shorten the deadline for Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin to achieve peace as a "realistic and firm" position. Source: Sybiha in a statement, as reported by European Pravda Details: The Ukrainian minister reiterated that Putin rejects all peace efforts. He also added that the Ukrainian side values the "clarity and strength" demonstrated by the US president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "Putin is rejecting a ceasefire, avoiding a leaders' meeting, and prolonging the war. He will only end his terror if we break the spine of his economy, which already has systemic problems, as well as deprive his war budget of financing. The United States, Europe, and the G7 have the necessary strength to accomplish this." Details: In this context, Sybiha emphasised the need to fully synchronise sanctions against Russia. "Right now, we can see momentum. The time has come to consolidate a single and strong sanctions fist and hit Russia's war budget with full force," the Ukrainian foreign minister added. He reiterated that in recent weeks, Ukraine had synchronised previous EU sanctions packages. Together with its allies, Kyiv is also taking steps to close loopholes and block Russias access to technology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The next weeks must see maximum synchronization of all partners' sanctions against Russia to increase the cost of war for the aggressor. We are actively working with partners to achieve this," Sybiha concluded. Background: On 28 July, Trump expressed his disappointment with Putin and promised to shorten the 50-day deadline he had previously set for achieving peace in Ukraine. That same day, the US president said the new deadline would be "about 10 or 12 days from today". Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed Trumps new deadline for Russia. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Defence Intelligence of Ukraine has released archival footage of special forces mobilising FPV drones from boats in the open sea for the first time. The operation took place in autumn 2024. Source: Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU) Quote: "During a raid near the coast of Crimea on 11 September 2024, fighters from the Raven Group unit, part of the Defence Intelligences Timur Special Unit, used FPV drones from boats in open waters for the first time." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The published video features exclusive footage of combat operations by reconnaissance personnel. DIU added that this element of the operation enabled Ukrainian troops to suppress Russian firing positions on the Petro Hodovanets gas extraction platform in the Black Sea. The Russians suffered losses of personnel and equipment. Background: In May 2025, DIU revealed unmanned surface vessels equipped with kamikaze drones designed for operations in the Black Sea. Footage of these platforms was featured in the documentary Naval Battle: Drone Era by Artem Shevchenko. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! By Dan Peleschuk KYIV (Reuters) -Swivelling his selfie camera around the floor of Ukraine's parliament, opposition lawmaker Oleksiy Honcharenko beamed out a real-time view of colleagues fast-tracking legislation that would soon spark the biggest political crisis since Russia's invasion. "Friends, this is how parliamentarianism is being destroyed in Ukraine," he said in the July 22 broadcast to his more than 2 million social media subscribers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Honcharenko is one of a handful of politicians in Ukraine's parliament, mostly from the opposition, who have filled the gap left by a wartime suspension of an official live broadcast. They provide followers with play-by-play text and visual updates of Ukraine's thorny politics, which helped to fuel a popular backlash against a law pushed through last week by the ruling party to defang anti-corruption watchdogs. The practice of airing parliamentary sessions, once a staple of Ukraine's vibrant political culture, was scrapped after Russia's February 2022 invasion because it was considered a security risk. Honcharenko and several other opposition members stepped in, using their platforms increasingly since 2023 to keep Ukrainians up to speed on the inner workings of Ukraine's 450-seat legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Events there captured public attention last week after lawmakers led by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's Servant of the People party rammed through measures curbing the powers of two prominent anti-corruption agencies. The vote, which the opposition said had been marred by procedural violations, was documented online by Honcharenko and at least one other opposition lawmaker. Within minutes of the legislation passing, some of Ukraine's leading online influencers weighed in, stoking anger that sent thousands of protesters onto the streets of Kyiv and other cities that night in rare wartime unrest. "Today they simply shat on everyone's head with this law and set us back 10 years," wrote blogger Ihor Lachenkov to his 1.5 million Telegram subscribers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protesters expressed anger at the speed with which the measures were passed, and some suspected they were designed to protect top officials from investigation. The anti-graft agencies are also crucial to Ukraine's aim to one day join the European Union. Zelenskiy reversed course after the outcry and pressure from senior European politicians. Lawmakers will consider restoring the independence of the agencies on Thursday. Ukraine's parliament has been in session throughout the war, and until last week's controversy had largely taken on a rubber-stamp function to pass laws critical to the country's wartime survival. NEWSMAKERS OR NEWS PROVIDERS? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, nearly 70 prominent civic and media organisations called on parliament to restore the broadcast from the chamber, saying transparency was "the foundation of trust in parliament". "I think it had a very big significance on people saying 'No, this isn't right. This isn't Europe,'" said Honcharenko, who is the only lawmaker streaming live video, of the impact of his broadcasts on public opinion after last week's vote. Broadcasting from parliament is not technically illegal but instead banned by a non-binding resolution respected by most lawmakers. Sessions are posted online later in the day. A spokesperson for parliament speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk did not immediately respond to questions from Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calls to resume broadcasting are part of broader criticism among opposition politicians and the public that Zelenskiy's administration has attempted to monopolise the wartime narrative, including through centralised state television. His office denies the charge. "(Opening up parliament) is not convenient for them - that's clear," said lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniak, who delivers live text coverage of sessions on Telegram, often with scathing wit that is accented by emojis. He said some of his colleagues who had voted for the controversial measures would not have done so if they knew voters were watching in real time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vita Dumanska, head of the pro-transparency group CHESNO said lawmakers' feeds were not proper substitutes for an official transmission because they can curate what voters see. "This is not an objective presentation of facts," said Dumanska, whose organisation led the call by civic groups. "These are facts with a political stance." (Reporting by Dan Peleschuk; Editing by Ros Russell) From the first days of Russias full-scale invasion, Western leftists have invoked peace as a slogan as if peace were not already at the heart of every Ukrainians daily prayer. They warn the world not to provoke the Kremlin, as if Ukraines restraint could halt Russian missiles. For Ukraines own leftists, though, the prospect of total annihilation has laid bare how hollow abstract pacifism sounds when survival itself is on the line. When Russian forces tried to take Kyiv in 2022, Ukrainian writer Artem Chapeye a well-known leftist and outspoken male feminist made sure his family reached safety before he enlisted to defend his country. In his latest book "Ordinary People Dont Carry Machine Guns," translated into English by Zenia Tompkins and published by Seven Stories Press, Chapeye reflects on his path to military service, the ways in which the war has upended parts of Ukrainian society, and what it means to hold onto your humanity when forced to pick up a weapon. Its easy to hide behind the abstract idea that the more weapons there are, the more war therell be when you yourself are safe, Chapeye writes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But what if one of your brothers is sitting with his wife in a corridor in February 2022 on the outskirts of Kyiv, with gunfire all around and Russian armored vehicles already driving by the building, and he is panicking when he realizes that he doesnt even have an axe in his apartment, nothing to defend himself with other than kitchen knives and a meat tenderizer? Things look a little different then. Chapeyes inner conflict with his longstanding pacifism unfolds when he and his family stop by a village heading westward and he meets an elderly local. This man, along with other locals of his generation with military experience, is readying to enlist. By contrast, the mans son has returned to the village, hoping to lay low and avoid military conscription officers. When Chapeye asks the son if he can give his family a ride to continue their journey westward, he replies that he doesnt want to be stopped at a military checkpoint. Its easy to hide behind the abstract idea that the more weapons there are, the more war therell be when you yourself are safe. Ukrainian writer and soldier Artem Chapeye attends the 13th International Book Arsenal Festival in Kyiv, Ukraine, on May 30, 2025. (Nastya Telikova / Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chapeyes writing resists easy blame when it comes to such social issues, always choosing instead to look deeply, contextualize, and find empathy, if possible. On the sons choice, he says: I just wouldnt want that to be me. I struggle more with the men who have bought documents claiming a fake disability or obtained a fake guardianship of a disabled person and now sip beer from bottles with Heroes dont die on the labels, he adds. Chapeye approaches such reflections with an understanding of his personal limitations. More than once he conveys in the book how he is in awe of the Ukrainian men who chose to come back from abroad and enlist, confessing that he likely would have lacked the courage to make that sacrifice himself. He admits that initially, he even suspected these stories were state propaganda until encountering those men firsthand proved otherwise. Recognizing ones own limitations and those of others during wartime can also give rise to many different manifestations of guilt, according to Chapeye. Ukrainian mothers can experience remorse over their perceived insufficient contribution to national defense. Volunteers confront the dissonance of supporting the war effort without fighting on the front line. Soldiers serving in the rear struggle to compare their setbacks with those who are in trenches, while others endure survivors guilt, mourning fallen brothers-in-arms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This multilevel nature of guilt is, for me, one of the most bizarre and unexpected psychological phenomena of war. Russia attacked Ukraine, but Ukrainians are the ones to feel ashamed. Everyone in Ukraine talks about this, he writes. War rewrites the order of things. What we do in its long shadow shapes the peace that might follow if we survive to see it. Once condemned as weakness, certain gestures reveal unexpected strength: in Ukraines rather patriarchal society, Chapeye notes, it is no longer wrong for men to cry. If anything, it is a sign of strength and refusal to grow numb to the daily horrors of war. For Chapeye, it is the thoughts of his children that bring him to tears most easily. When the war began, his family sought refuge in Germany while Chapeye stayed behind to serve in the military. Technology keeps them connected, but screens cannot bridge the ache of their physical absence an ache that only grows sharper when they visit him in dreams. You rush to pick them up in your arms, to hold them close so you can feel them, but your children melt away, and you wake up in tears. Your children are gone, and you are in a f**king military uniform, with a f**king assault rifle under you, sleeping in some f**king train car, Chapeye writes. A soldier of the 92nd Assault Brigade of Ukraines army, poses for a photo in an undisclosed area in Kharkiv Oblast, Ukraine, on June 28, 2024, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. (Roman Pilipey / AFP via Getty Images) Ukrainian servicemen of the 59th Brigade's mobile air defense unit fire a Soviet-made ZU-23 anti-aircraft twin autocannon toward a Russian drone from a sunflower field during an air attack near Pavlohrad, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, Ukraine, on July 19, 2025. (Roman Pilipey / AFP via Getty Images) Chapeye is not the only servicemember who is in despair over being separated from his family. One of Chapeyes brothers-in-arms a tough-looking guy with an assault rifle, as he describes him reminds him of this in a delicate, unexpected way: he hugs Chapeye, and asks him to remember that he is not alone in his feelings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, all this suffering makes it especially difficult for those serving in the military to emotionally connect with those who are not. Chapeye describes in the book feeling a sharp pang of dislike when he sees an acquaintance on Facebook post about searching for an apartment for his family in Kyiv, while Chapeye himself cant see his own kids, who are abroad. (Chapeye's own family has since returned to Ukraine.) Tens of thousands of people who were less fortunate have already died to make his pleasant life possible, he writes. "Ordinary People Dont Carry Machine Guns" stands as a timely, clear-eyed account of the sacrifices Ukrainians have had to make to defend their homeland. While many of Ukraine's Western supporters reach for grand myths of tireless, unbreakable warriors, Chapeye counters with a necessary reminder: Ukrainians will continue to fight for as long as they can, but that fight is slowly breaking them. Perhaps no one is better placed to say so than a pacifist in military uniform. Such a person doesnt romanticize war they loathe it. Yet, they choose to serve. They serve because they understand that peace, if it means anything, sometimes must be defended and not simply wished into existence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike the abstract pacifists Chapeye criticizes in the book, the pacifist in military uniform knows that peace is not the absence of war it is about protecting justice, human dignity, and national sovereignty. When those are threatened by another country invading, taking up arms is not a rejection of pacifist ideology: it is the refusal to let senseless violence prevail. Note from the author: Hi, this is Kate Tsurkan, thanks for reading this article. There is an ever-increasing amount of books about or related to Ukraine, Russia, and Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine available to English-language readers, and I hope my recommendations prove useful when it comes to your next trip to the bookstore. If you like reading about this sort of thing, please consider supporting The Kyiv Independent. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine's military reportedly launched a large-scale drone attack on Russia's Rostov Oblast overnight on July 29, striking a railway station in the town of Salsk, local officials reported. Videos posted on social media by local residents and geolocated by the Russian Telegram channel Astra appear to show large flames emanating from the railway station. Confirming the attack, Rostov Oblast Acting Governor Yuri Slusar said on Telegram that a civilian vehicle was damaged, killing the driver. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian Railways, the state-owned railway operator, reported that the attack damaged overhead power lines, forcing the suspension of train traffic through Salsk station. Ukraine's military rarely comments on drone strikes on Russian territory, although it has regularly targeted the region with drones. Located near the Azov Sea and bordering Ukraine, Rostov Oblast plays a crucial logistical role for Russia's war effort due to its proximity to front-line operations 0:00 / 1 Elsewhere in Salsk, located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) southeast of occupied Donetsk Oblast, Ukrainian drones reportedly struck homes as well as vehicles, killing the driver of one of the automobiles, Slusar claimed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kyiv Independent cannot verify claims made by Russian officials. Another fire was reported near the village of Orlovsky in Rostov Oblast where a drone reportedly struck a traction substation used power to railway infrastructure. Russia's Defense Ministry claimed that a total of 74 Ukrainian drones were shot down over various regions of the country overnight. Fuel depots, rail infrastructure, and ammunition stockpiles inside Russia and occupied territories have increasingly become targets for long-range drone and missile strikes. In recent weeks, Ukraine has struck other Russian railway stations in the region. Overnight July 21, a fire broke out at a train station in the village of Kamenolomni in Rostov Oblast overnight July 21 causing damage to the railway station's building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: I already know the answer Trump to shorten Ukraine deadline for Putin to 1012 days Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukraines Security Service (SSU) and the Prosecutor Generals Office have prevented a contract assassination of Serhii Filimonov, commander of the 108th Separate Battalion of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, known as the Da Vinci Wolves. The assassination was being orchestrated by Russias Federal Security Service (FSB), which had recruited a resident of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast by posing as the SSU. Source: Prosecutor Generals Office; SSU and an Ukrainska Pravda source within law enforcement Details: The investigation revealed that the Russian intelligence service had recruited a former Ukrainian soldier from the city of Kamianske, convincing him that he was acting under the SSU's orders to eliminate a spotter allegedly working for Russia rather than a Ukrainian military commander. The recruited man received a call from someone using a fake identity and was told that he had supposedly been charged with treason for purchasing medical supplies from an online shop that allegedly supported the Russian armed forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To intensify the psychological pressure, the man was sent a forged summons for interrogation. He was then offered "cooperation" with the SSU in exchange for the charges being dropped. He was sent a fake application form to join the SSU and was instructed to travel to Kyiv. TThe fake application form Photo: SSU Quote from SSU: "The FSB handlers manipulated the Ukrainian mans patriotic beliefs he genuinely believed he was helping a Ukrainian special service fight the enemy. In his messages to his handler, the man expressed willingness to destroy the occupiers even at the cost of his own life." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More details: In Kyiv, the man rented an apartment in a residential complex where Filimonov was supposed to be living. He was instructed to monitor Filimonov, track his movements, send photos from the courtyard, and share GPS coordinates. The FSB portrayed Filimonov as a "traitor" allegedly responsible for directing attacks against Kyiv. After a large-scale attack on the capital, the handler tried to convince the man that Filimonov orchestrated it. The recruited individual was given coordinates of a weapons cache containing an AK-74 assault rifle on the outskirts of Kyiv. After retrieving the weapon, he was ordered to kill the Ukrainian soldier. Ukrainska Pravda law enforcement sources say that the man arrived in Kyiv at the end of May. During this time, the SSU documented him receiving initial instructions, including reconnaissance and area surveillance. The direct assassination attempt on Filimonov was scheduled for early July. The weapon received by the recruited individual. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: SSU SSU operatives apprehended the man as he stepped outside with the weapon. During a search, law enforcement officers found a mobile phone used to communicate with his handler. He has been charged under Article 263 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which concerns the illegal possession of weapons and ammunition. Quote from SSU: "The SSU emphasises that Security Service officers do not recruit people over the phone, do not propose illegal acts, and do not assign suspicious tasks. The SSU operates strictly within the framework of Ukrainian law." Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! UNITED NATIONS (AP) High-level representatives at a U.N. conference on Tuesday urged Israel to commit to a Palestinian state and gave unwavering support to a two-state solution, signaling widespread international determination to end one of the worlds longest conflicts. The New York Declaration sets out a phased plan to end the nearly eight-decade conflict and the ongoing war in Gaza. The plan would culminate with an independent, demilitarized Palestine living side by side peacefully with Israel, and their eventual integration into the wider Mideast region. The meeting is taking place amid the latest reports that starvation and famine are taking place in Gaza, and growing global outrage at Palestinians not getting food due to Israeli policies and practices which Israel denies. Planned for two days, the meeting was extended into Wednesday because representatives of about 50 countries have not spoken. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel rejects the notion of two states Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes a two-state solution and has rejected the meeting on both nationalistic and security grounds. Israel's close ally, the United States, is also boycotting, calling the meeting unproductive and ill-timed. Israels U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon late Tuesday sharply criticized the some 125 countries participating in the conference, saying there are those in the world who fight terrorists and extremist forces and then there are those who turn a blind eye to them or resort to appeasement. The conference, which was postponed from June and downgraded from world leaders to ministers, for the first time established eight high-level working groups to examine and make proposals on wide-ranging topics related to a two-state solution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The declarations plan says conference co-chairs France and Saudi Arabia, the European Union and Arab League, and 15 countries that led the working groups agreed to take collective action to end the war in Gaza. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan urged the rest of the 193 U.N. member nations to support this document before the start of the 80th session of the U.N. General Assembly in mid-September. The declaration condemns the attacks committed by Hamas against civilians in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. It marks a first condemnation by Arab nations of Hamas, whose attacks killed about 1,200, mainly Israeli civilians, and whose militants took about 250 people hostage. Some 50 are still being held. The declaration condemns Israel's attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in Gaza and its siege and starvation, which have produced a devastating humanitarian catastrophe and protection crisis. Israels offensive against Hamas has killed over 60,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which doesnt distinguish between civilians and combatants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plan would give Palestinian Authority governing power The conference plan envisions the Palestinian Authority governing and controlling all Palestinian territory, with a transitional administrative committee immediately established under its umbrella after a ceasefire in Gaza. In the context of ending the war in Gaza, Hamas must end its rule in Gaza and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority, the declaration says. It also supports deployment of a temporary international stabilization mission operating under U.N. auspices to protect Palestinian civilians, support the transfer of security to the Palestinian Authority and provide security guarantees for Palestine and Israel including monitoring of the ceasefire and of a future peace agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The declaration urges countries to recognize the state of Palestine, calling this an essential and indispensable component of the achievement of the two-state solution. Without naming Israel but clearly referring to it, the document says illegal unilateral actions are posing an existential threat to the realization of the independent state of Palestine. French President Emmanuel Macron announced ahead of the meeting that his country will recognize the state of Palestine at the General Assembly's meeting of world leaders in late September. The French Foreign Ministry on Tuesday pushed back on Israeli claims that recognition of Palestine would reward Hamas, saying that on the contrary, it has contributed to isolating Hamas. United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Tuesday that Britain would recognize the state of Palestine before September's meeting, but would refrain if Israel agrees to a ceasefire and long-term peace process in the next eight weeks. The countries are now the biggest Western powers and the only two members of the Group of Seven major industrialized nations to make such a pledge. A separate one-page statement titled the New York Call" was circulated by France, but the language was considered too strong, especially for Arab nations. It was only approved by 15 Western nations, including six that have recognized the state of Palestine and nine others: Andorra, Australia, Canada, Finland, Luxembourg, Malta, New Zealand, Portugal and San Marino. The statement, issued late Tuesday, says the 15 countries have recognized, expressed or express the willingness or the positive consideration ... to recognize the state of Palestine, as an essential step towards the two-state solution, and invite all countries that have not done so to join this call. By Stephanie van den Berg THE HAGUE (Reuters) -A U.N. war crimes court on Tuesday denied an application by Bosnian Serb general Ratko Mladic, who is serving a life sentence for his role in the 1992-95 war in Bosnia, to be urgently released to Serbia on health grounds. In a decision published on the court's website, the court said that while Mladic's health condition is precarious, it is stable and well managed at the U.N. detention centre in The Hague. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The specific medical conditions of the 83-year-old former general, convicted of genocide and crimes against humanity, are redacted in court papers but he is known to suffer cognitive impairments and was hospitalised at least twice this year, according to earlier court hearings and documents. "Uncontradicted medical opinions indicate that Mladic is nearing the end of his life, a fate that is human," the president of the court Graciela Gatti Santana, said in the ruling. She added, however, that the former general does not have an acute terminal illness which could justify his release. Mladic led Bosnian Serb forces during Bosnia's 1992-95 war, part of the bloody break up of Yugoslavia. He was convicted on charges of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes including terrorising the civilian population of the Bosnian capital Sarajevo during a 43-month siege, and the killing of more than 8,000 Muslim men and boys taken prisoner in the eastern town of Srebrenica in 1995. (Reporting by Stephanie van den Berg) By Kate Abnett BRUSSELS (Reuters) -The United Nations' climate bureau held an urgent meeting on Tuesday over concerns that sky-high accommodation prices for this year's COP30 climate summit in Brazil could price poorer countries out of the negotiations, according to diplomats and a document seen by Reuters. Brazil is preparing to host this year's U.N. climate summit in November in the rainforest city of Belem, where nearly every government in the world will gather to negotiate their joint efforts to curb climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Concerns about logistics have dogged preparations for COP30. Developing countries have warned that they cannot afford Belem's accommodation prices, which have soared amid a shortage of rooms. In an emergency meeting of the U.N. climate body's "COP bureau" on Tuesday, Brazil agreed to address countries' concerns about accommodation and report back at another meeting on August 11, said Richard Muyungi, chair of the African Group of Negotiators, who called the meeting. "We were assured that we will revisit that on the 11th, to get assurances on whether the accommodation will be adequate for all delegates," Muyungi told Reuters after the meeting. He said African countries wanted to avoid trimming their participation because of the cost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are not ready to cut down the numbers. Brazil has got a lot of options in terms of having a better COP, a good COP. So that is why we are pushing that Brazil has to provide better answers, rather than telling us to limit our delegation," Muyungi said. Another diplomat familiar with the meeting said complaints about affordability came from both poor and wealthy nations. An agenda for Tuesday's meeting, seen by Reuters, confirmed it was convened to address "operational and logistical preparations for the Climate Change Conference in Belem" and the African Group of Negotiators' concerns on the matter. Brazil's Foreign Ministry did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Brazilian officials organising the summit have made repeated assurances that poorer countries will have access to accommodation they can afford. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for the UN's climate body, UNFCCC, declined to comment on the meeting. CRUISE SHIP HOTELS Brazil is racing to expand the 18,000 hotel beds usually available in Belem, a coastal city of 1.3 million, to host the roughly 45,000 people projected to attend COP30. The government this month said it had secured two cruise ships to provide 6,000 extra beds for delegates. It also opened bookings to developing countries for more affordable accommodation at daily rates of up to $220. That is still above the "daily subsistence allowance" the U.N. offers some poorer nations to support their participation at COPs. For Belem, the figure is $149. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two U.N. diplomats showed Reuters quotes they had received from hotels and property managers in Belem for rates of around $700 per person per night during COP30. Officials from six governments, including wealthier European nations, told Reuters they had not yet secured accommodation because of high prices, and some said they were preparing to reduce their participation. A spokesperson for the Dutch government said it may need to halve its delegation compared with recent COPs, when the Netherlands sent around 90 people during the two-week event, including envoys, negotiators and youth representatives. Poland's deputy climate minister Krzysztof Bolesta told Reuters earlier this month: "We don't have accommodation. We'll probably have to cut down the delegation to the bone." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In an extreme event, maybe we will have to not show up," he said. (Reporting by Kate Abnett; Additional reporting by Doyinsola Oladipo in New York and Lisandra Paraguassu in Brasilia; Editing by Brad Haynes and Rosalba O'Brien) Despite the trauma of October 7, diplomats continue to push for the outdated two-state solution, ignoring new realities and Israel's security concerns. In a world reshaped by the trauma of October 7, some international diplomats seem determined to act as if nothing has changed. On Tuesday, the United Nations convened yet another confabthis one in New York and sponsored by France and Saudi Arabiaaimed at revitalizing the decades-old push for a two-state solution. This came just days after French President Emmanuel Macron said France would recognize a Palestinian state in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Palestinian statehood, the participants to the conference declared, remains the only viable path to peace. UN Secretary-GeneralAntonio Guterres repeated the familiar formula: a state based on the 1967 lines with East Jerusalem as its capital. To Israeli ears, those words now ring hollow; worse, they sound tone-deaf. Nearly 22 months after Hamas launched an invasion of Israel designed to trigger the beginning of the end of the Jewish state, the international community is dusting off the same talking points that dominated the diplomatic discourse before October 7. But the ground has shifted and the assumptions that underpinned the two-state idea have erodedswept away by the blood and horror of October 7, and the 20 years of Gaza-based terrorism that preceded it. People rally in front of the United Nations headquarters during a ''Stop Starving Gaza Now'' protest amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in New York City, US, July 25, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/Christian Monterrosa/File Photo) Its one thing to promote Palestinian statehood in theory. Its another to advocate for the creation of such a state within spitting distance of Tel Aviv, as memories of rockets fired toward Tel Aviv from Gaza are agonizingly fresh in Israeli minds. Israel has already lived through a version of this experiment, and it did not go well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twenty years ago next month, Israel withdrew entirely from Gaza. It uprooted 21 thriving Jewish communities, removed some 9,000 citizens from their homes, and handed the territory over to the Palestinians without preconditions. The world applauded, at least briefly. The hope was that Gaza would become a pilot for Palestinian self-rule, a test case for a future state. Instead, it became a launchpad for Hamas, a haven for Islamic Jihad, and a base for Iranian proxies who want to destroy the Jewish state. On October 7 they tried to do just that. How will this be different? So when Israelis now hear foreign diplomats once again call for a Palestinian state, their first question is: based on what? On what precedent, on what evidence, on what assurances that this time will be any different? The two-state solution isnt just an idea that has never materialized; its an idea that was partially implemented in Gaza and produced precisely the kind of nightmare it was supposed to avert. That context was noticeably absent from the UN parley, and obviously did not make it into Guterres opening remarks when he said that statehood for the Palestinians is a right, not a reward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Absent too were the necessary qualifiers. If there is to be a Palestinian state, how about a demilitarized one? One whose government does not pay terrorists after they murder Jews? One whose school system does not teach its children to glorify violence and dream of erasing Israel from the map? One, perhaps, that is deradicalized and stable, rather than yet another failed state ripe to be overtaken by Iran in an already tumultuous region? Those issues werent raised. Instead, it was more sloganeering. Previous blueprints for a Palestinian state, blueprints accepted by Israel and rejected by the Palestinians because they did not meet all of their maximalist demands, included a safe passage corridor linking Gaza with Hebron. Today, can anyone imagine Israelis agreeing to allow Gazans to drive past the very communities they attacked and butchered? That moment has passed, and pretending otherwise wont make it come back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When US President Donald Trump floated his controversial idea in February of relocating Gazans elsewhere, it briefly seemed like the start of something different: an opening to think outside the box, to look for alternatives beyond the well-worn paths of failed diplomacy. But that window closed quickly. The UN parley shows that instead of imaginative thinking, we again get the old, tired default setting. In theory, the world agrees that Israels security is paramount. In practice, the Palestinian state they are talking about at the UN would render that security impossible. Creating a Palestinian state in the West Bank todayunder the terms being discussed in the UNwould mean replicating the Gaza model on a much larger, more dangerous scale. Given recent history, there is no reason to believe that this would not lead to rockets within range of Ben-Gurion Airport, anti-tank missiles on the hills above Highway 6, and terror tunnels burrowing under the Green Line. Is the two-state solution truly the only option? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some Israeli analysts have suggested returning to a framework that predates the two-state mantra: expanded autonomy along the lines envisioned in the 1978 Camp David Accords. That approach would grant Palestinians civil governance and local control, but without the full apparatus of sovereign statehoodno army, no border control, no foreign policy. Other ideas include one recently floated by sheikhs of the Hebron region for the creation of independent emirates. Another is a revisiting of the Jordanian federation plan. And a third calls for a creative redrawing of the regional map with Jordan, Egypt and Israel all swapping land to create a more viable Palestinian state than one in the West Bank and Gaza. None of these may be perfect or even workable solutions. But at least they acknowledge the reality on the ground: the absence of Palestinian political leadership capable of delivering peace, the enduring appeal of Hamas-style violence in large parts of Palestinian society, and the simple, tragic, enduring fact that what many Palestinians want is not a state next to Israel in teh West Bank and Gaza, but one instead of it. And yet, international diplomacy keeps circling back to the same place, as if sheer repetition will yield different results. Worse, the timing of this latest diplomatic initiative shows just how disconnected much of the world remains from Israels lived reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement August marks two decades since the disengagement from Gazathe closest Israel ever came to granting full-fledged independence to a Palestinian territory. That bold gamble ended in disaster, not because Israel didnt go far enough, but because its gesture was met with rockets, tunnels, kidnappings, and mass murder. The trauma of that mistake is not theoretical. It is seared into the consciousness of a nation still burying its dead, still fighting a war, still trying to bring its hostages home. The following poll results show the degree to which the trauma is not theoretical. An Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) poll in March found that support for a two-state solution declined to 24% among the general public, down from 38% in September 2024. Ten years ago, by comparison, a similar INSS poll found that 60% of the public supported the idea. In the March poll, only 15% of Jewish Israelis favored a two-state solution, a decline from 31% in September. If the world wants to be helpful, it could start by listening. It could start by acknowledging the failure of past frameworks and helping to craft new ones grounded in present realities, not past fantasies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It could press the Palestinians to reform their institutions, end incitement, stop paying for the slaying of Jews, stop teaching their children that Jews have no place in this region, stop glorifying terrorist murderers, and start building something resembling a credible political system. And it could make clear that any future arrangement must include ironclad guarantees for Israeli securitysuch as demilitarization and deradicalizationnot just vague promises and recycled resolutions. Until then, Israelis will continue to view talk of Palestinian statehood not as a path to peace, but as a dangerous delusion. One theyve already lived through once before and have no interest in going through again. A UN conference aimed at reviving efforts toward a two-state solution in the Middle East drew to a close in New York on Tuesday with a call from 17 countries for an end to Hamas rule in the Gaza Strip and concrete steps to end the conflict. "We agreed to take collective action to end the war in Gaza, to achieve a just, peaceful and lasting settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on the effective implementation of the two-State solution," the conference's final declaration stated. The seven-page document, seen by dpa, condemned the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, which triggered the conflict in Gaza, and said the Palestinian militant group must hand over its weapons to the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The signatories include the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Norway and Ireland, as well as influential Arab countries Saudi Arabia and Jordan, and Egypt and Qatar - which are acting as mediators between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire agreement. The signatories also condemned the "attacks by Israel against civilians in Gaza and civilian infrastructure, siege and starvation, which have resulted in a devastating humanitarian catastrophe and protection crisis." They called on the Israeli military to withdraw from the coastal area and to put an end to settlement activities in the occupied West Bank. The group of countries also emphasized that it supports a UN stabilization force in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The statement is to be officially adopted by the United Nations by September and further countries are likely to sign on in the meantime. Expectations for the conference - organized by Saudi Arabia and France - were low as key players Israel and the United States were absent. Facing backlash for undermining two anti-corruption agencies last week, Kyiv may now have to appoint a candidate to lead the country's economic crimes bureau, after blocking the reformer for weeks. Earlier this month, Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers rejected an independent commission's nominee to lead the Bureau of Economic Security over alleged ties to Russia in a move observers called unlawful and politically motivated. But now, after domestic and international outcry over a law passed last week granting the Prosecutor General sweeping control over the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor (SAPO), Kyiv is facing mounting pressure to honor its anti-corruption commitments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The European Commission on July 29 called on Ukraine to appoint the nominated director "swiftly," saying doing so was "essential to advance (the bureau's) reform and ensure its independent and effective functioning," an EC spokesperson told the Kyiv Independent. The spokesperson added that the appointment is part of Ukraine's broader reform commitment under the EU accession process. Ukraine is also required to select a new head of the bureau by the end of this month as part of its $15 billion loan program with the International Monetary Fund. "The IMF has been very understanding when it comes to Ukraine but the kind of confidence-sapping moves like those of last week leave a trace that even backtracking on NABU and SAPO won't entirely erase," Roman Washchuk, Ukraines business ombudsman, told the Kyiv Independent. "Things that would have been glossed over may now be taken into account." Three international members of the bureau's selection committee appointed anti-corruption official Oleksandr Tsyvinsky on June 30 to fill the vacant position before the July 31 deadline set by the EU and IMF. The government overruled that decision, citing Tsyvinskys fathers Russian citizenship as a security concern. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tsyvinsky who is known for exposing schemes involving illegal land seizures in Kyiv, holds clearance for state secrets, and has passed special vetting has over 20 years in law enforcement, including nearly a decade at NABU. Despite calls among Ukrainian lawmakers and members of civil society to appoint Tsyvinsky, which the government was required to do within 10 days of his nomination according to the laws governing the bureau, the Cabinet of Ministers doubled down on its decision, with Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko publicly defending the government's right to reject a candidate for security reasons. "Before these events related to NABU and SAPO, there were some doubts that maybe (Tsyvinsky) was just an isolated case. But after, it became very clear that (the government) just doesn't want him because he is an independent person," Olena Trehub, the head of the NGO the Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (NAKO), told the Kyiv Independent. "They used exactly the same pretext to attack NABU and SAPO saying they are afraid of Russian infiltration." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to opposition lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniak, it was President Volodymyr Zelensky who blocked Tsyvinskys appointment, due to concerns that his circle could be prosecuted. Observers widely attributed the governments attempt to weaken NABU to its investigations involving members of Zelenskys inner circle. The bureau, established in 2021 to investigate white collar crimes, has faced allegations ranging from inefficiency to pressuring and extorting businesses. To promote good governance, its bylaws require a six-member selection committee three appointed by the government and three international experts, with the latter holding final decision-making authority. International committee member James Wasserstrom told the Kyiv Independent he stands by his decision to nominate Tsyvinsky and believes he has a high chance of being appointed. It's unclear what decision the government will take. The prime minister has not walked back her earlier defense of rejecting Tsyvinskys nomination. Trehub says she is concerned that could signal the government is committed to pushing for another selection competition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But international partners may not be so keen to fund another competition if the result will just get overturned, Washchuk said. The previous selection commission was funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which has since been heavily curtailed under U.S. President Donald Trump. "You would have to be a pretty masochistic international to want to go through this again, knowing that at the end, for some random reason which cannot be revealed to you, the outcome will be overturned," Washchuk said. But Zhelezniak is now confident the government has "no other option" but to appoint Tsyvinsky. "They have to do it." Read also: Zelenskys big Ukraine blunder, explained Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) Human trafficking is a complicated charge; even more complex are the other criminal acts that are often associated with trafficking and exploitation. Human trafficking is exploitation, whether it involves forced labor or sex. However, the fine details are needed for prosecutors to secure a human trafficking conviction, including a willing victim to detail the horrors of their experiences while being trafficked. However, not every case of prostitution meets the criteria of human trafficking, which is legally defined as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of people through force, fraud, or deception, to exploit them for profit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vice units are often responsible for making arrests related to the worlds oldest profession or prostitution. Men and women who play different roles in the exchange for sex and money, but every person can be prosecuted, unless they are proven to be unwilling victims of human trafficking. Still, with so many legal definitions, it can be difficult for people outside of the trade to understand why people were arrested and what crimes were committed. People who work in the sex trade often share their exploits via social media or use social platforms to recruit additional workers or clientele. Self-proclaimed sex workers on TikTok share the pros and cons of dating, one of many euphemisms for prostitution. At the same time, others flash large amounts of cash in veiled attempts to lure other young women and men into the lifestyle. Some of them likely have no clue that these activities could land them in jail, facing various charges, including human trafficking Pandering: Enticing, persuading, or causing someone to enter into the practice of prostitution, whether by force, threats, promises, or manipulation. A person can also get a criminal charge of pandering by maintaining a location where prostitution is habitually practiced. In Louisiana, a person who is identified as a pimp can be charged with pandering. Pandering refers to the act of recruiting a person to prostitute themselves. State statute RS 14:84 includes receiving or accepting earnings from prostitution, which is commonly part of the pimps role. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prostitution: The act of engaging in indiscriminate sexual intercourse with others in exchange for compensation. The person who agrees to compensate the prostitute for sex acts can also be charged with prostitution. Obscenity: Intentional public exposure of genitals or other intimate parts in a manner meant to arouse sexual desire or that is patently offensive. Louisiana law is very detailed as it relates to the legal parameters of what can be considered obscene, which includes the exposure of pubic hair and committing sexual acts in public. Louisiana RS 14:101.6 bans the promotion of obscene devices. You can use your imagination or click the link to get a better understanding of what is prohibited. Those found guilty of promoting, selling, mailing, or other legally defined offenses within the no promoting or wholesale promotion of obscene things can be subject to fines of up to $2,500 or not more than three years in prison. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. A landscape in Leicestershire could be set for the world stage as a bid is made to secure a prestigious international designation. An application to get Unesco Global Geopark status for Charnwood Forest is being led by The National Forest. The area in the north of the county is home to attractions including Bradgate Park and Beacon Hill, and is famous for its landscapes and ancient fossil finds. Organisers behind the bid said an application would be submitted to Unesco later this year with international evaluators visiting the site in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the application is successful, the designation would be awarded in the spring of 2027. A 560 million-year-old fossil representing the earliest known animal predator was uncovered at the site in 2007 [Simon Harris/Rhian Kendall/BGS/UKRI] Geoparks are areas of outstanding geology that are used by local communities to promote sustainable economic development, conservation, and education, organisers said. There are currently 229 Unesco Global Geoparks in 50 countries. Charnwood Forest Geopark has been developed over the past four years as part of a National Lottery Heritage Fund-supported scheme, hosted by the National Forest. The site has a geological story that dates back nearly 600 million years, and is home to some of the oldest animal fossils ever found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These include a 560 million-year-old fossil representing the earliest known animal predator. Since 2020, a partnership comprising several organisations including Bradgate Park Trust, Leicestershire County Council, the Environment Agency and the British Geological Survey, has been working to try to raise the profile of Charnwood Forest. Dr Jack Matthews, a geo-heritage officer who is part of the team behind the application, said: "Since the discovery of our famous fossil Charnia by two schoolchildren in the 1950s, Charnwood Forest has been one of our planet's most important places to visit and understand how animals first evolved. "The Geopark is promoting this fascinating story through new interpretation at sites across Charnwood Forest, welcoming local people and visitors to learn more about their oldest animal ancestors and support local businesses while they're here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "From rocks and fossils to our unique human history, and biodiversity, Charnwood Forest has many layers of heritage, and with Unesco Global Geopark status we can share these with even more people." A map showing the Charnwood Forest Geopark area [Charnwood GeoPark] Follow BBC Leicester on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210. More on this story Related internet links University of North Florida police are asking for help identifying a suspect linked to a burglary at Petway Hall. According to UNFPD, the break-in happened Thursday afternoon, July 24, in an unoccupied office. Personal items were stolen during the incident. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< Police are asking anyone who recognizes the man or sees him on campus to contact UNF police at (904) 620-2800. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] (NewsNation) Union Pacific plans to acquire Norfolk Southern in a deal worth $85 billion, the freight railroad giants announced Tuesday. If approved, the merger would create the nations first transcontinental railroad, connecting more than 50,000 miles across 43 states, according to a news release. Union Pacific operates west of the Mississippi River, while Norfolk Southern primarily runs east of it. Jim Vena, Union Pacific CEO, called the proposal a transformational step forward for the nation and a win for our people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Southwest begins selling flights with assigned seats Railroads have been an integral part of building America since the Industrial Revolution, and this transaction is the next step in advancing the industry, Vena said in a statement. The merger will require federal approval, which could prove complicated for a deal of this size. The companies hope to complete the merger by early 2027. Delta co-pilot arrested at California airport moments after landing, witnesses say Merger proposal follows East Palestine, Ohio, fallout Tuesdays announcement comes nearly two and a half years after a Norfolk Southern train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, spilling hazardous chemicals and leading to lingering health problems for residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this year, Norfolk Southern and East Palestine reached a $22 million settlement that resolved all claims by the village stemming from the 2023 derailment. Linda Murphy, an East Palestine resident, expressed frustration with the settlement, telling NewsNation that many individuals and families are stuck in the same place they were when the derailment first happened. EPA, Norfolk Southern manipulated East Palestine soil testing data: Report The village has been receiving millions, Murphy said. It is like it has become a separate individual entity not something made up of its residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another resident, Jami Wallace, criticized what she called zero transparency from the village on the settlement, as well as its failure to mention health insurance or relocation. The settlement, Wallace said, goes with the villages choosing economic recovery over human health. NewsNations Rich McHugh and Cassie Buchman contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. A 2016 Dodge Charger with a desert sand color wrap and red wheels was stolen from McDonald Circle in the Cheraw area of Chesterfield County on Monday night. ALSO READ: Two arrested for possession of stolen luxury vehicles The vehicle, which bears the South Carolina license plate PIQ535, was reported missing, prompting an investigation by the Chesterfield County Sheriffs Office. Sheriff Cambo Streater is urging anyone with information about the stolen car to contact the tip line at 843-287-0235. The VIN is 2C3CDXCT0GH227750. (Reuters) -Flight attendants at United Airlines voted on Tuesday to reject the tentative agreement for a new contract with the carrier, their union said. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, which represents 28,000 of United's flight attendants, said 92% of the eligible voters cast a ballot, with 71% voting not to ratify the agreement. The agreement, which the union and United had reached in May, was estimated to result in a financial gain of 40% for the flight attendants in the first year of the new contract. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president of the United Airlines chapter of the AFA-CWA, Ken Diaz, said on Tuesday that the agreement "didn't go far enough to address" the demands of the flight attendants. "Our union will survey members as quickly as possible to identify the key issues Flight Attendants are ready to fight to achieve in an agreement they want to ratify," Diaz said. The union will now return to the negotiations table with United Airlines, until a new agreement is reached. United's flight attendants, who filed for federal mediation in 2023, are seeking a new contract that includes a double-digit increase in base pay, better compensation for all hours worked including time on the ground as well as retroactive pay, more flexible scheduling and improved work rules. They haven't received a pay raise since 2020. (Reporting by Aatreyee Dasgupta in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona) The USA is pausing all routine visa services at its embassy in Nigerien capital Niamey until further notice, according to a State Department spokesperson and an internal State Department cable. This comes as the US steps up its hardline measures against illegal immigration. The 25 July dated cable did not provide a reason for the move but a State Department spokesperson said the pause, which would cover all immigrant and non-immigrant visa categories, was in place until Washington addressed "concerns with the Government of Niger." The spokesperson did not provide further details, but said that most diplomatic and official visas were excepted from the pause. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Trump Administration is focused on protecting our nation and our citizens by upholding the highest standards of national security and public safety through our visa process," the Department spokesperson said. Heightened scrutiny The diplomatic cable also instructed consular officers in other visa processing posts to apply "heightened scrutiny" when assessing non-immigrant visa applications for Nigerien nationals, whose overstay rates it said were 8 percent for visitor visas and 27 percent for student and exchange visas. Consular managers should make an effort to reduce the number of overstays by non-immigrant visa holders in the United States, the cable said and added: "In this regard, particular vigilance is needed in adjudicating Nigerien NIV applicants." The US embassy in Niamey has informed all individuals impacted, the spokesperson added. New US foreign policy The US military in September said it had completed its withdrawal from Niger, after the West African nation's ruling junta in April 2024 ordered Washington to withdraw its nearly 1,000 military personnel from the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US military completes withdrawal from last base in Niger Before the July 2023 coup, Niger had been a key partner in the US fight against insurgents in the Sahel region of Africa, who have killed thousands of people and displaced millions more. As part of his hardline stance on immigration, US President Donald Trump has ordered a nationwide campaign to arrest migrants who are in the US illegally and has vowed to deport millions of people, executing raids at work sites including farms that were largely exempted from enforcement during his first term. African Union condemns Trump travel ban amid strained Africa-US relations Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump administration officials have said student visa and green card holders are subject to deportation over their support for Palestinians and criticism of Israel's conduct in the war in Gaza, calling their actions a threat to US foreign policy and accusing them of being pro-Hamas. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in May said the number of visas he has revoked was probably in the thousands. The State Department under his leadership significantly tightened social media vetting for US visa applicants. (with Reuters) An unlicensed Rhode Island car dealer was sentenced to 15 months in prison and ordered to pay $150,000 in restitution for defrauding consumers by selling cars whose odometers had been rolled back to show less mileage, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Neronha announced Monday, July 28. Pablo Beato, 53, pleaded no contest on July 23 to one count of conspiracy to tamper with odometers, one count of conspiracy to obtain money under false pretenses, and one count of conspiracy to commit forgery, Neronha said in a news release. If the case had gone to trial, Neronha said his office was prepared to prove that between 2018 and 2021, Beato tampered with and rolled back the odometers of 42 vehicles, which he eventually sold to consumers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In early 2020, the Rhode Island State Police began an investigation after receiving reports from the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles about forged certificates of title, according to Neronha. The owners of both cars reported buying them from P.B. Auto Repair & Import LLC, located on Cranston Street in Providence, he said. On Feb. 17, 2020, state police investigators visited P.B. Auto Repair & Import to inspect the business, and they told Beato by telephone that he did not have the proper licensing to sell motor vehicles, Neronha said. The next day, investigators drove by and noticed that the dealership appeared closed, he said. All of the vehicles that had been on display were gone. Two months later, state police investigators learned that Beato had moved his dealership to his home on Kenwood Street in Providence, according to Neronha. Through search warrants for property and social media accounts associated with Beato, as well as surveillance of the properties, investigators determined that Beato had used Facebook and Craigslist to post vehicles for sale and sold 42 vehicles with odometers that had been tampered with to reflect lower mileage counts, Neronha said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Fortunately, this defendant's scheme ran out of gas. We see no shortage of deceptive trade practices in Rhode Island, and we prosecute offenders both civilly and criminally to protect consumers from bad actors who wish to take advantage of them," Neronha said. Superior Court Judge R. David Cruise sentenced Beato to 15 years with 15 months to serve at the Adult Correctional Institutions and 15 years of probation. Cruise also ordered Beato to pay $150,000 in restitution over 15 years. Cases are still pending against two people charged along with Beato, according to the attorney general's office. Assistant Attorneys General Jeffrey Morin and John Moreira and state police Detective Stephen W. Brown led the investigation and prosecution of the case. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI man sent to prison for selling cars with rolled back odometers ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) University of New Mexico police are re-evaluating safety protocol after the on-campus shooting early Friday morning which left a 14-year-old visitor dead, a 19-year-old student injured, and an 18-year-old behind bars. The 19-year-old UNM student who was shot and remains in the hospital had three visitors over at his dorm, which was within housing rules. UNM Police say security and patrolling is the same during the school year and during summer break. But patrol and visitor protocol will be updated following this incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Usually, a small handful of students are on campus during summer break. But the shooting happened while more than 400 students and parents were on campus for new student orientation. The Universitys Lobo-alert emergency message was sent out hours after the incident. Police say this is because they did not have enough information to send out until then. Before that time we didnt have any information to send out because we didnt know what was going on with the subject on campus, if there was a subject on campus, and if he had a gun or not, said UNM Police Lieutenant Tim Delgado. Police say they first got a silent alarm notification at 1:37 a.m. indicating that someone was trying to break in at Mesa Vista Hall, but UNM Police say they couldnt find a subject when they arrived. They then got a call at 2:42 a.m. that a student was at UNM Hospital with a gunshot wound. But when police spoke with the student he would not tell them where the incident took place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 3:14 a.m. an officer made entry into the dorm through a window, found the dead 14-year-old, and the notification was sent out at 3:28 a.m. The first alert was sent to let people to know to stay away from a certain area, Delgado said. I think it was sent at 3:28 a.m. and we gave updates throughout the day. Then we closed the campus because the suspect was outstanding. The Casas Del Rio dorms the Friday morning shooting occurred at is managed by a private company called American Campus Communities. Although only students are allowed to live there, their rules are more relaxed than the regular UNM dorms as far as visitors. Some of the students stay year round on campus, and the subject was there staying year round, Delgado said. He was there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regarding gun threats, police say its a misdemeanor to have a gun on campus. But they say its a hard thing to monitor. Probably therell be some changes just like at Lobo Village, Delgado said. We had a problem at Lobo Village a while back and we made some changes there with security and how many visitors they can have. UNM Police hold monthly meetings with UNM housing, student unions, and other University leaders. They say they will likely be changing some protocol involving visitors and patrolling before fall classes begin Aug. 18. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Immigration has dominated recent public discourse about Florida, whether it be the opening of Alligator Alcatraz, a migrant detention facility in the middle of the Everglades, or Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis declaring an immigration emergency for the state that has lasted more than two years. As demographers that is, people who count people weve noticed that this conversation has proceeded largely without the benefit of a clear description of Floridas immigrant population. Heres a snapshot. How many immigrants are in Florida? We used data from the Office of Homeland Security Statistics and the American Community Survey, conducted annually by the U.S. Census Bureau. Homeland Security provides estimates of the states undocumented population and annual counts of authorized arrivals. Census data allow us to describe the social and economic characteristics of Floridas immigrant population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, the most recent year for which the Department of Homeland Security provides publicly available data, an estimated 590,000 immigrants without legal status were living in Florida. This is the third-largest population of immigrants without legal status in the U.S., behind California and Texas. But in contrast to those two states, the number of immigrants entering Florida illegally has been shrinking since 2018. On the other hand, DHS data points to recent growth in Floridas population of immigrants with legal status. This represents a rebound from declines between 2016 and 2020. In 2023, Florida welcomed 72,850 residents from outside the country. This is just 0.3% of Floridas population that year. About 95% of these new Florida residents were admitted as lawful permanent residents, or green card holders. The remainder entered as refugees (3%) and people granted asylum (2%). For comparison, U.S. Census Bureau estimates suggest roughly 640,000 people moved to Florida in 2023 from other states. Who makes up Floridas immigrant population? The American Community Survey data tells us even more about Floridas immigrant population. The survey estimates that 4,996,874 foreign-born individuals lived in Florida in 2023, up from 3,798,062 in 2013. These numbers include those who are in the U.S. legally and illegally and encompass both recent arrivals and long-term residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, about 22% of Florida residents and nearly 7% of Florida children were immigrants. An additional 29% of Florida children have at least one immigrant parent. According to the American Community Survey, nearly half of Floridas immigrants were born in Cuba, Haiti, Venezuela, Colombia or Mexico. Despite being born elsewhere, Floridas immigrants in many ways resemble other Floridians: About 20% hold a bachelors degree, compared to 22% of nonimmigrant Floridians, and 13% of both groups have a graduate degree. Nearly all Florida immigrants, 89%, speak English, and the majority, 57%, are naturalized citizens. Immigrants make up a disproportionate share of Floridas workforce, particularly in essential sectors of the states economy. They account for more than 47% of Floridas agricultural workers, 41% of hotel workers and 35% of construction workers. Florida immigrants also work in sectors that many might not consider to be immigrant jobs. They constitute 33% of child care workers, 21% of school and university employees and 27% of the health care workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Across all sectors, immigrants have lower unemployment rates than nonimmigrants. Although available data cannot tell us the extent to which these numbers are bolstered by undocumented immigrants, the importance of Floridas immigrants for the states economy is undeniable. Floridas population is growing at a faster rate than any other state in the country, boosted by people moving in from abroad and from other states. This growth both reflects and feeds the states economic vitality. Between 2019 and 2024, Floridas GDP grew twice as fast as the nations as a whole. Is Florida experiencing an immigration emergency? Thats for politicians to decide. Our research suggests that policies that discourage new arrivals or encourage or force migrants to leave could jeopardize Floridas robust economy and the well-being of its population. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Matt Brooks, Florida State University and Karin Brewster, Florida State University Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. In late July 2025, social media posts claimed Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters was caught watching adult content during a state Board of Education meeting. Snopes readers asked us to look into those claims. Two members of the Oklahoma State Board of Education say they saw a video showing naked women on a television in State Superintendent Ryan Walters' office during an executive session of a meeting on July 24, 2025, according to a news report. Snopes could not independently confirm their reports. We reached out to both board members for comment and did not receive a response by the time of publication. Walters addressed the allegations in a statement shared on X on July 27, 2025, saying, in part, that "there is absolutely no truth to any implication of wrongdoing." The status of an investigation into the alleged incident was unclear at the time of publishing. On July 25, 2025, two state senators said the state Office of Management and Enterprise Services was leading an investigation inquiry. A spokesperson for the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office told Snopes via phone that OMES asked the sheriff's office to look into the incident, but they could not confirm additional details. In late July 2025, social media posts claimed that Ryan Walters, Oklahoma's top education official, was caught watching adult content during an Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting. "Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters, the same guy banning books and pushing the Bible into classrooms, was reportedly caught watching explicit content during an executive meeting," the caption of one TikTok video (archived) read, in part. Another TikTok user (archived) claimed Walters was "under investigation after two board members say they saw a video of naked women playing on the TV in his office during an official meeting." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similar claims (archived) about Walters being "caught" watching adult content during the meeting circulated (archived) on (archived) X (archived). Ryan Walters, the Oklahoma schools chief who wants bibles in the classroom and Christianity taught to kids, just got caught watching adult content. On his work computer. During a Board of Education meeting. Read that again.https://t.co/JInLrTRzqD Hemant Mehta (@hemantmehta) July 26, 2025 Scores of Snopes readers emailed us and searched our website to ask if the recent claims about Walters were legitimate. One reader wrote to us asking, "Did Ryan Walters have a video of naked women playing behind him during a meeting?" Two members of the Oklahoma State Board of Education said they saw a video featuring naked women on a television in Walters' office during an executive session of a meeting on July 24, 2025, according to news reports (archived, archived). Snopes could not independently confirm their reports. We reached out to both board members for comment and did not receive a response by the time of publication. Walters addressed the allegations in a statement shared on X (archived) on July 27, 2025, saying, in part, that "there is absolutely no truth to any implication of wrongdoing." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The status of an investigation into the alleged incident was unclear at the time of publishing. On July 25, 2025, two state senators said (archived) the state Office of Management and Enterprise Services was leading an investigation inquiry. A spokesperson for the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office told Snopes via phone that OMES asked the sheriff's office to look into the incident, but they could not confirm additional details. Walters has previously faced scrutiny over his policy decisions, including his push to incorporate the Bible into Oklahoma public schools' lessons. Here's what we know about the alleged incident: Board members' allegations Ryan Deatherage and Becky Carson, two members of the Oklahoma State Board of Education, told the media outlet NonDoc and the newspaper The Oklahoman that they saw a video featuring "naked women" on a television screen in Walters' office during the executive session portion of a board meeting held on July 24. Both reportedly said they were the "only people seated in a position to see the screen." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deatherage said he first noticed the video "while a parent was speaking about her appeal of a district transfer denial," according to NonDoc. As Deatherage considered how to bring the video to the room's attention, "Carson noticed the nudity," the outlet reported. NonDoc quoted Carson as saying: I was like, "What am I seeing?" I kind of was in shock, honestly. I started to question whether I was actually seeing what I was seeing. I was like, "Is that woman naked?" And then I was like, "No, she's got a body suit on." And it happened very quickly, I was like, "That is not a body suit." And I hate to even use these terms, but I said, "Those are her nipples." And then I was looking closer, and I got a full-body view, and I was like, "That is pubic hair." Even right now, I couldn't even tell you what I was watching. Though the video featured nudity, it did not involve sexual intercourse, according to the board members' accounts. Deatherage said he recalled seeing "multiple n*de women on the screen and some sort of 'chiropractic table,'" NonDoc reported. Carson recalled being disturbed by the video and confronting Walters about it during the meeting. In response, Walters initially appeared confused, but then acknowledged that he saw the video, according to Caron. Walters struggled to turn off the content and, after doing so, offered no apology or further comment, Carson told NonDoc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deatherage shared a similar account of Walters' response, saying, in part: I don't know if he turned it off or switched the channel, I don't remember. I was surprised that when he came back to the table, he was not apologetic. I didn't ever hear an apology for that being on, and he didn't seem to be fazed that it was on. Snopes could not independently confirm the board members' reports. We reached out to both of them for comment and did not receive a response by the time of publication. We also contacted Chris Van Denhende, another Oklahoma State Department of Education board member who spoke to KFOR (archived), a local TV news station. In an email to Snopes, Van Denhende said he "was not in a position to see what was on the TV" like Carson and Deatherage. He added: "Please notice Superintendent Walters did not deny what was on the TV and he did see it because he picked up the remote and either changed the channel or turned it off." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Van Denhende also said he has "complete confidence in the Oklahoma State Board of Education" and added that "the only motivation we have is to elevate the State of Oklahoma's Educational Outcomes from 50th in the nation." Walters addresses allegations On July 27, 2025, Walters addressed the allegations in a statement shared to his personal X account. He suggested they were "politically motivated" and denied that any of his devices were used to stream inappropriate content on the television. Walters' full statement is as follows: As I lead the charge for a bold overhaul of education in Oklahoma, putting parents back in control, rejecting radical agendas, and demanding excellence: it's no surprise to face politically motivated attacks. Any suggestion that a device of mine was used to stream inappropriate content on the television set is categorically false. I have no knowledge of what was on the TV screen during the alleged incident, and there is absolutely no truth to any implication of wrongdoing. These falsehoods are the desperate tactics of a broken establishment afraid of real change. They aren't just attacking me, they're attacking the values of the Oklahomans who elected me to challenge the status quo. I will not be distracted. My focus remains on making Oklahoma the best state in the nation, in every category. As I lead the charge for a bold overhaul of education in Oklahoma, putting parents back in control, rejecting radical agendas, and demanding excellence: its no surprise to face politically motivated attacks. Any suggestion that a device of mine was used to stream inappropriate Ryan Walters (@RyanWalters_) July 27, 2025 Probe in progress On July 25, 2025, Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton and state Sen. Adam Pugh, both Republicans, released a joint statement (archived) about a potential investigation into the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The senators said the state's Office of Management and Enterprise Services was leading an investigation inquiry. Another local news outlet reported (archived) on July 28, 2025, that OMES asked the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office to review what happened inside Walters' office during the meeting. A spokesperson for the sheriff's office confirmed to Snopes by phone that OMES asked the law enforcement agency to look into the incident, but they could not confirm additional details about an investigation. In the state senators' joint statement, Paxton referred to the incident as "a bizarre and troubling situation that raises serious questions about the events and what took place" during the executive session at the board meeting. He added: The accounts made public by board members paint a strange, unsettling scene that demands clarity and transparency. Senator Pugh and I appreciate the quick action by OMES to help coordinate through this situation to get details on exactly what happened. More transparency is essential before strong conclusions can be drawn. Pugh offered the following statement: The reports coming out of Thursday's Board of Education meeting raise a number of questions. This is a situation that warrants further explanation and transparency. Additionally, Superintendent Walters and those making the allegations deserve to be heard and give their side of the story. I appreciate the efforts by everyone who are taking these allegations seriously. We'll be watching closely as more information comes to light. Sources: Evans, Murray. "Board Members Say Naked Women on TV in Ryan Walters' Office during Closed Session." The Oklahoman, https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/education/2025/07/25/nude-women-visible-on-tv-in-ryan-walters-office-oklahoma-education-board/85378094007/. Accessed 28 Jul. 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Murphy, Sean. "Oklahoma State Superintendent Orders Schools to Teach the Bible in Grades 5 through 12." AP News, 27 June 2024, apnews.com/article/oklahoma-bible-schools-religion-ryan-walters-d15be2f74df2ffbbdfdc549569d06c4e. Accessed 28 July 2025. Ndisabiye, Sasha. "Board Members: TV in Ryan Walters' Office Displayed Nude Women during Executive Session." NonDoc, 25 July 2025, nondoc.com/2025/07/25/board-members-tv-in-ryan-walters-office-displayed-nude-women-during-executive-session/. Accessed 28 July 2025. X (Formerly Twitter), 27 July 2025, x.com/RyanWalters_/status/1949566691685306449. Accessed 28 July 2025. "Senate pro Tem Paxton and Senate Education Chairman Pugh Comment on Potential SDE Investigation | Oklahoma Senate." Oksenate.gov, 25 July 2025, oksenate.gov/press-releases/senate-pro-tem-paxton-and-senate-education-chairman-pugh-comment-potential-sde?back=/press-releases. Accessed 28 July 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Franklin, Abigail. "Third Board Member Speaks out after Allegations of Naked Women on TV in Supt. Walters' Office." KFOR.com Oklahoma City, 27 July 2025, kfor.com/news/oklahoma-education/third-board-member-speaks-out-after-allegations-of-naked-women-on-tv-in-supt-walters-office/. Accessed 28 July 2025. Dowers, Graham. "OMES Refers Ryan Walters Office Incident to Oklahoma County Sheriff." News9.com, 28 July 2025, www.news9.com/story/6887a662c40af63ee1a56c4c/omes-asks-oklahoma-county-sheriff-to-review-incident-in-ryan-walters-office. Accessed 28 July 2025. Three people are dead, and 10 others wounded after a mass shooting erupted at a popular nightclub in the Turks and Caicos Islands early Sunday morning, an attack officials are calling the first of its kind in the British territory. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force said the shooting occurred just before 3 a.m. on July 27 at the Hookah and Cigar Lounge in Providenciales. According to investigators, at least four suspects were involved in the attack, though no arrests have been made as of Tuesday. Police Commissioner Fitz Bailey described the incident as "deeply disturbing" in a statement to the Associated Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At a press briefing, Premier Charles Washington Misick linked the shooting to gang-related violence and noted that much of the activity appears concentrated in Haitian communities. He urged members of those communities to cooperate with law enforcement and help identify how illegal firearms are entering the country. Caribbean Police Work To Id Body Found During Search For Missing American As Nearby Security Guard Was Killed Three people dead and 10 wounded in a mass shooting at a nightclub in Turks and Caicos Islands, as officials link the attack to gang violence in Haitian communities. "What were witnessing is unprecedented," Misick said. "This level of violence is not something we can allow to become normal. This is not a situation we should accept. It is not a generic situation, and we will do everything possible to stamp it out." Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities confirmed that 10 people were transported to the hospital following the attack. Seven remain hospitalized with varying degrees of injury, and one person is in serious condition. Two victims were airlifted overseas for advanced treatment, and the local hospital was placed on lockdown to secure the scene and protect the injured. In a statement posted to its official Facebook page, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force condemned the shooting and urged the public to assist with the investigation. Memorial Day Weekend Shooting Leaves 11 Injured At North Myrtle Beach Marina As Police Hunt Suspects Direction signpost on the Long Bay Beach, on the southeast side of Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos Islands. "This incident underlines the capacity and willingness of criminals to commit serious acts of violence against our citizens, residents, and visitors," the statement read. "The police force is urging anyone with information to continue to partner with us to bring these criminals to justice." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A reward of $10,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the suspects. Authorities have not yet identified a clear motive. Premier Misick reassured the public that the government is fully backing law enforcement and emphasized the importance of unity and resolve in the face of such violence. Us Embassy Warns Americans In Central American Country Of Mass Shooting Threat "My government is 100% behind the police. It is important that we do everything we can to stem the violence," he said. "At the same time, I want to appeal to the general public not to panic. We must not, as the commissioner said, retreat or cower in the face of those who want to despoil the good reputation of our islands." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tragedy comes amid renewed efforts by the Turks and Caicos government to combat illegal immigration. "Let me just cut to the chase," Misick added. "We are now seeing gangland-type slayings. A lot of this gang violence seems to be concentrated in our Haitian communities." According to the United Nations humanitarian office, an estimated 10,900 Haitians live in the Turks and Caicos Islands, accounting for roughly one-third of the total population. Approximately 80% live on Providenciales, the territorys most populous island, but only 20% have permanent residency status. "Let this be a warning to everyonethose who know something and say nothing, those who are aiding and abetting criminals, and those committing crimes," Misick warned. "This government is committed to ensuring that the Turks and Caicos Islands remain a safe place to live and raise families." Original article source: Unprecedented violence rocks tropical paradise as brutal nightclub attack leaves multiple dead The world's wealthiest nations have a legal obligation to reduce heat-trapping pollution and will have to pay up if they do not, the United Nations' highest court declared in a landmark advisory opinion issued July 23. In the comprehensive, 133-page opinion, the International Court of Justice called rising global temperatures "an existential problem of planetary proportions that imperils all forms of life and the very health of our planet." The court went even further, recognizing access to a healthy environment as a basic human right. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is essential for the enjoyment of other human rights," the court wrote. As requested by the U.N. General Assembly, the advisory opinion surveyed a number of international treaties as well as customary international law, concluding that, under existing agreements and established law, countries have a duty to take climate action. This duty extends to governments policing the behavior of private actors within their borders, the court found. Perhaps most significantly, the court concluded that governments that do not comply with these obligations under international law could be compelled to pay economic damages to those negatively impacted by the changing climate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the ICJ's advisory opinion is not itself legally binding, environmental advocates heralded the ruling as crucial in the fight to rein in rising global temperatures. "This advisory opinion is a tool for climate justice," explained Vishal Prasad, a law student who urged the island nation of Vanuatu to pursue its case before the ICJ, per Reuters. "And boy, has the ICJ given us a strong tool to carry on the fight for climate justice." Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu's minister for climate change, praised the opinion in comments made outside the court. Do you worry about air pollution in your town? All the time Often Only sometimes Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. The ICJ "has confirmed what vulnerable nations have been saying and have known for so long," Regenvanu said, according to the Guardian. "That states have legal obligations to act on climate change." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the strength of the ICJ's advisory opinion, its practical impact remains to be seen. Even as it confirmed countries' existing legal obligation to combat rising global temperatures, the ICJ acknowledged that the law alone will not be sufficient to overcome such a monumental challenge. "A complete solution to this daunting, and self-inflicted, problem requires the contribution of all fields of human knowledge, whether law, science, economics or any other," the court wrote. "Above all, a lasting and satisfactory solution requires human will and wisdom at the individual, social, and political levels to change our habits, comforts, and current way of life in order to secure a future for ourselves and those who are yet to come." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regardless of the policies being implemented at the national or international levels, there are simple actions that anyone can take every day to "change our habits, comforts and current way of life," as the court urged. Riding a bicycle instead of driving, taking public transit, driving an EV, or installing solar panels on your roof are all great ways to improve local air quality while also reducing planet-warming pollution. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Joan Anderson, who coined the name for the hula hoop and played an unsung role in its rise, has died age 101. The former model was visiting her native Australia from her home in the US when she spotted groups of people swivelling wooden hoops around their waists. She was so mesmerised by the growing craze in Australia that she had one of the strange new toys shipped to the US. The 2018 documentary Hula Girl retold Ms Anderson's story of dubbing it the hula hoop after the hip-swivelling Hawaiian dance, and how it was she and her husband who first showed it to a toy company boss. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It went on to sell millions and become a global sensation - but the couple went uncredited for their role in its rise. Joan Anderson, a former model, with her original wooden hoop [Chris Riess and Amy Hill] Recounting meeting the boss of American toy conglomerate Wham-O in the early 1960s, Ms Anderson told documentary makers: "We told him, 'we've called it the hula hoop,'. "He said, 'looks like it has some merit, if it makes money for us, it's going to make money for you'." Ms Anderson claimed the deal was sealed with a "gentleman's handshake" and it began to fly off the shelves in the US. Ms Anderson worked as a swimsuit model [Chris Riess and Amy Hill] But in the years that followed, the firm's boss "kept putting us" off, Ms Anderson said, and the pair eventually filed a lawsuit which resulted in a modest financial settlement - but crucially, no formal recognition of their role in its rise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later accounts of its invention mentioned how an "Australian friend" brought an early version to the US. She told documentary makers: "I think that bugged me more than anything. It was never reported correctly at all. I was not a 'friend'." [Chris Riess and Amy Hill] Born Joan Constance Manning in Sydney on 28 December 1923, she worked as a swimsuit model and met Wayne Anderson, a US Army pilot, on Bondi Beach and married him soon after. Speaking to the BBC, the filmmaker behind the story of Ms Anderson's life said: "Telling Joan's story was such a rewarding experience. "She was 94 when we met and even with everything she'd been through, she had lived an amazing, full life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Seeing her finally get the recognition she deserved after all those years was incredible." Ms Anderson died on 14 July at a nursing home in Carlsbad, California, having lived "a wonderful life", her family said. She is survived by two sons, a daughter and six grandchildren. Another son, Carl, died in 2023. Jul. 29---- After two nights of high winds and heavy rain, is ready to bring some paradise music to rock on Tuesday night, July 29, 2025. That is the good news. Due to the recent rains, the concert and parking grounds are too waterlogged for heavy foot traffic or vehicle parking. So the Willmar Rotary Club has implemented its Plan B for Rockin' Robbins concert nights. There will be no public parking on Robbins Island on Tuesday night. However, accessible parking will be available in the parking lot by Foot Lake. Limited parking will be available for Willmar Rotary volunteers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grandstand stage has been moved to a street location near the Robbins Island shelters. Fans will be able to sit to the east of the grandstand stage on the street, grass or parking lot. Rockin' Robbin fans are urged to use the free shuttle transportation from four convenient locations in Willmar: * Heritage Bank, 310 First St. S. * Kennedy Elementary School, 824 Seventh St. S.W. * Willmar Middle School, 201 Willmar Ave. S.E. * Willmar Community Center, 624 Business Highway 71 Fans may also bike to Robbins Island and park in the large bike lot. Old Man Cover Band will open up the Military Appreciation Night concert Tuesday, and Parrothead Paradise will headline. There will be free T-shirts for the first 100 veterans and active-duty military personnel in attendance and a free first drink for military members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There will be a scheduled flyover of World War II-era planes from the Fagen Fighters Museum in Granite Falls, a color guard from the Willmar American Legion and several military vehicles on display provided by the Willmar Army National Guard, according to Rockin' Robbin officials. is a Jimmy Buffet tribute band made up of 11 musicians. The band plays Buffett's classic hits, including "Margaritaville," "Cheeseburger in Paradise" and "Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes. is a group of central Minnesota dads from Willmar playing a crowd-pleasing mix of hits from the '60s through the 2000s. ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) UPMC GoHealth, which is already treating patients, celebrated opening its doors to the community Tuesday. UPMC announced it would buy MedExpress locations in Pennsylvania and West Virginia last fall. They have remodeled and rebranded the spaces as UPMC GoHealth, an urgent care clinic under the UPMC umbrella. The new urgent care center offers vaccinations, lab testing, x-rays and treatment for illnesses such as strep throat, the flu and the common cold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hospital administrators said having an urgent care option in the UPMC family will help get patients the services they need when they need them. I think getting the patient to the right place at the right time for the right care is key. And, you know, sometimes the urgent care is a little lower level than what you would need to emergency department. So it makes sense to increase access that because most of the cases dont require treatment in the hospital, said Michael Corso, President of UPMC Altoona and Bedford. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. UPMC is reminding patients that while the new facility is prepared to treat illnesses and injuries, if you are experiencing severe chest or abdominal pain, shortness of breath or weakness in your arms or legs, you should call 911 or go to the closest emergency room. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. MILAN B&B Italia Groups parent company Flos B&B Italia is on a mission to sell off its galaxy of brands asset by asset, but the Italian furniture brand is pressing on with worldwide expansion plans. The new opening represents a significant step in the distribution plan of B&B Italia Group, which continues its path of global distribution expansion, the company said in a statement. More from WWD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its latest monobrand store in Seoul was opened in collaboration with Duomo, a local partner. Located in the heart of Hakdong, a design district located in the bustling Gangnam area, the new showroom spans 10,763 square feet and also houses its upscale furniture brands Maxalto and Azucena. The stores location facilitates interaction with the burgeoning design community, chief executive officer Demetrio Apolloni said. The new space will provide professional services for clients, architects and developers in the region, including design consultations for both residential and contract projects. With our trusted partner Duomo, and with our heritage and passion, we aim to inspire and engage the local community of architects, interior designers and design lovers. Testament to the rise in South Korean collectors and emerging design voices, Design Miami will unfurl its first event in the city with an exhibition to be held Sept. 1 to Sept. 14 in the Zaha Hadid-designed Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a landmark in Seoul. In an interview with WWD in December, Apolloni said store openings in South Korea, Japan and Australia were key to its strategy. In the U.S. where there are stores in Chicago, Dallas, Miami, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Boston and New York the firm has introduced a new retail model in which fellow upscale brands Maxalto and Arclinea interact together under one roof. The new Boston location, in the Back Bay district, is a prime example of one of its directly operated stores that is emblematic of this new model. In Miami the group recently enlarged its B&B Italia Design Studio. Interiors were curated by B&B Italias interior designer team. Unique to the Seoul location, walls were adorned with a cement effect for the indoor collections, while the space showcasing B&B Italias outdoor collections is distinguished by a metal structure with an exclusive clay color. The first floor dedicated to Maxalto features luminous walls covered in rice paper for a museum-like effect. The design culminates in a centerpiece that is a scenographic oval staircase that connects the ground and the first floors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July, the firm ended its agreement with Fendi Casa, when Milan-based Luxury Living Group said Fendi, which originally terminated its agreement with Luxury Living Group in 2021, has returned and signed an agreement for the production of its home line. In 2021, Fendi and Flos B&B Italia, then known as Design Holding, formed Fashion Furniture Design, or FF Design, to develop the Fendi Casa business. Flos B&B Italia Group also comprises Flos, Louis Poulsen, Lumens and Audo Copenhagen. Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. SIMPSONVILLE, S.C. (WSPA) An Upstate man is facing a child sex charge following his arrest in Greenville County. SC Attorney General Alan Wilson announced that 49-year-old Bryan Michael Christie, of Simpsonville, was charged with second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. Investigators received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which led them to Christie. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly distributed files of child sexual abuse material. Christie was arrested Thursday, July 24, by the Greenville County Sheriffs Office. Officials said the charge Christie is facing is a felony offense punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The case will be prosecuted by the SC Attorney Generals Office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. GREENWOOD COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) A Greenwood man was sentenced to two decades in prison on Monday after he pleaded guilty to charges connected with a crash which killed a local veteran. According to the Eighth Circuit Solicitors Office, Robert Charles Regan pleaded guilty on Monday to felony DUI resulting in death and failure to stop for blue lights resulting in death. In 2023, Regan was pulled over on the S.C. Highway 72 bypass for erratic driving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the solicitors office, when he was told he was suspected of driving under the influence, Regan put his truck in drive and fled from the stop. Officers chased Regan down the bypass where he reportedly drove in between cars until he reached the intersection of Laurel Avenue, where hit an SUV on the drivers side door. David Rearden, an 85-year-old Army veteran who served in Vietnam, was injured in the wreck and died while on the way to the hospital. The solicitors office said Regan was going 68 miles per hour in a 35 miles per hour zone when the wreck occurred. Regan reportedly left the scene of the accident and struck at least one police vehicle before being forced off the road and arrested. At the time of his arrest, Regan had a blood-alcohol level of .109, according to the solicitors office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following his guilty plea, a judge sentenced Regan to 20 years in prison followed by 10 years of probation. State law requires him to serve at least 85 percent of his sentence 17 years before being eligible for parole. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. ROCKHAMPTON, Australia Long-range fires featured prominently at Exercise Talisman Sabre, the largest war games of their kind ever held in Australia. Various anti-ship missile firings demonstrated the ability of the U.S. and its allies to hit maritime targets from land-based launchers. If current tensions between China and Taiwan ever boil over into war, dispersed and mobile anti-ship missiles situated near strategic maritime straits could contain China within the so-called First Island Chain, which stretches southward from the Japanese archipelago down through Taiwan, the Philippines and Indonesia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This massive exercise in Australia, held from July 13-27, was marked by a number of firsts from Australia, Japan and the United States, as crews aboard HIMARS, Type 12 and Typhon launchers executed their respective fire missions. The first full day of the exercise kicked off with plumes of rocket engine smoke as HIMARS from three nations Australia, Singapore and the U.S. launched GMLRS munitions side-by-side. This was the first time Australia had fired its brand new HIMARS, the initial units only arriving in March. Maj. Markus Spicer, executive officer of the U.S. Armys 1st, Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery Regiment part of the 17th Field Artillery Brigade told Defense News that the firepower demonstrations interoperability between the partner forces was seamless, and we were able to execute timely and accurate fires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lockheed vows quick action on German Typhon missile launcher request Talisman Sabre 2025 also featured two HIMARS Rapid Insertion, or HIRAIN, activities. The idea is that a C-130 or C-17 could land on an austere airstrip somewhere in the First Island Chain to deliver a HIMARS loaded with Precision Strike Missiles. These rapidly deployable assets would then provide a bubble of protection against enemy ships. The first HIRAIN in this years Talisman Sabre occurred on July 22, when a Canadian C-17A flew a HIMARS from Darwin to Christmas Island. The second event involved a German Luftwaffe A400M transport picking up a HIMARS from Rockhampton the following day. Although no rockets were fired in these dry-fire iterations, the armies were able to complete the sensor-to-shooter linkage from observer to delivery system, explained Spicer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HIRAINs have featured in the preceding two iterations of Talisman Sabre, as the U.S. and its allies refine the method. Said Spicer: Its a capability we have to really expand our operational range, as well as provide multiple dilemmas for our adversaries. Even more significant than the HIRAIN demonstrations was the U.S. Armys 3rd Multi-Domain Task Force (MDTF) firing of an SM-6 missile from its Typhon missile system. This occurred on July 15, and it marked the first time the Typhon had fired outside the continental U.S. The SM-6 was launched from northern Australia, and it hit a maritime target in waters north of Darwin. Col. Wade Germann, commander of the 3rd MDTF, commented that the successful execution of an SM-6 live fire against a maritime target is another significant step forward in our ability to deploy, integrate and command and control advanced land-based maritime strike capabilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is notable that the target was afloat. It underscores the efforts the U.S. is making to hold Chinese warships at threat if they attempt to break into the Western Pacific through various chokepoints in the First Island Chain. The U.S. Army declined to speak to Defense News about the event, but a press release noted, The live fire provided valuable insights and lessons learned that will inform the development and employment of future land-based maritime strike and strategic strike capabilities. The system demonstrated its mobility it can be rapidly inserted into austere locations by C-17 transport aircraft and it can hit ships. Although an SM-6 was fired on this occasion, the Typhon can also launch Tomahawk cruise missiles, which have a longer range. It was no surprise that Talisman Sabre heavily rehearsed island hopping and seizure of island chains via a series of air assaults and amphibious landings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Incidentally, the U.S. has a Typhon battery currently located in the Philippines, although it has not fired any missiles there to date. Japan was responsible for yet another missile firing, when it launched two Type 12 anti-ship missiles from the Beecroft Weapons Range south of Sydney on July 22. Japan had fired a truck-launched Type 12 missile from the same location two years ago, the first time it had done so in the southern hemisphere, but this time the mission was far more sophisticated. Two Type 12 missiles were fired at different trajectories, and they simultaneously hit a floating target around 19 miles off the Australian coast. Looking at the current state of the world, we can see the security environment is both complex and serious, said Col. Youhei Ito, commander of the Japanese unit firing the weapons. It isnt possible for us or any country to establish peace and stability unilaterally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In line with this, [exercises like Talisman Sabre] will become more important in how we cooperate with allies and partners to achieve our mission, he added. Japan is locked in tensions with China, as the latter attempts to claim remote islands such as the Senkakus in Japans southern archipelago. A federal appeals court tossed out an Arkansas case that challenged a law limiting how many voters one person can help at the polls, declaring that the federal Voting Rights Act doesn't allow an individual to sue for enforcement of the law. (Win McNamee/Getty Images) A federal appeals court on Monday overturned a lower court ruling that had prevented enforcement of an Arkansas law limiting the number of voters someone can assist at the polls. The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling vacated a permanent injunction granted by a federal district judge that declared Act 658 of 2009 in violation of the federal Voting Rights Act. Mondays ruling also overturned the award of attorneys fees granted by U.S. District Judge Timothy Brooks of Arkansas Eastern District. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Act 658 prohibits someone other than a poll worker from helping more than six voters mark and cast their ballots. Immigrant advocacy group Arkansas United sued in 2020 to block enforcement of the six-voter limit, saying it violated the Voting Rights Act. Arkansas United traditionally helps voters with limited English skills at the polls. Brooks enjoined enforcement of the six-voter limit in 2022, and the circuit court stayed the injunction about two months before that years elections. The state filed an updated appeal challenging Brooks award of about $103,000 in attorneys fees to Arkansas United and its co-plaintiffs in 2023. Mondays circuit court ruling used the same reasoning the court used in an Arkansas redistricting case in which it declared that only the U.S. attorney general can enforce the Voting Rights Acts provisions. The historic voting rights law does not grant individuals or private organizations the right to sue for enforcement, the appeals court decided in 2023, thereby upending years of precedent. In Arkansas State Conference NAACP v. Arkansas Board of Apportionment, the appeals court said Monday, we held there is no private right of action under 2 of the Voting Rights Act (VRA). Here, we are asked to decide whether there is a private right of action under 208 of the VRA. Like the provision at issue in Arkansas State Conference, we conclude the text and structure of 208 do not create a private right of action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The circuit court ruling says Section 208 speaks only of the assistance that a voter may be given it is silent as to who can enforce it. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX In a statement Monday, Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin said the circuit judges properly determined that the district court erred by denying the States motion for summary judgment and by ruling for the plaintiffs. Mondays decision means election officials can continue to enforce the law and voters have confidence in elections, he said. Act 658 of 2009, signed into law by then-Gov. Mike Beebe, a Democrat, protects the right to vote free from undue influence or manipulation by limiting the number of voters that one person can assist in marking ballots to six, Griffin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Griffin noted that this commonsense approach to protecting our election process went unchallenged until 2020, when Arkansas United filed a lawsuit challenging the law shortly before midnight on the day before the general election. Arkansas United directed requests for comment to the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, whose attorneys are representing the nonprofit organization in the case. MALDEF did not return a request for comment by deadline. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Officials from Beijing and Washington on Tuesday agreed to continue talks on extending tariff rates under an established 90-day truce. Chinas top trade negotiator, Li Chenggang, discussed the progress during a press conference in Sweden, where officials have held talks for the past two days. The Chinese and U.S. economic and trade teams will maintain active communication, exchange views on economic and trade issues in a timely manner, and continue to promote the stable and healthy development of bilateral economic and trade relations, Li told reporters, according to Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Trade Representative Jameson Greer provided a positive report from negotiations, noting that President Trump will ultimately have the final say over a further tariff truce extension. Well report back to him the process we had here, Greer told reporters, according to Reuters. We had constructive meetings for sure, to go back with the positive report. But the extension of the pause, hell decide. He added that the conversation was candid and in-depth on both sides, notes Bloomberg. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the current agreement could be extended out to 90 days. He told reporters Tuesday remaining issues were small according to Bloomberg, noting Trump would be briefed on concerns by Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just had a phone call from Scott Bessent, and he had a very good meeting with China. Seems that, theyre going to brief me tomorrow, well either approve it or not, Trump told reporters on Tuesday, according to NewsNation, The Hills sister station. But he felt very good about the meeting, better than he felt yesterday. Chinese leaders have said that they want a deal that is mutually beneficial while Trump has weighed the option of visiting Beijing to discuss a more permanent rate in person with President Xi Jinping. On Monday, Trump said he was not seeking a summit with Jinping but would be open to discussion of talks if they were initiated from the other side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Fake News is reporting that I am SEEKING a Summit with President Xi of China. This is not correct, I am not SEEKING anything! I may go to China, but it would only be at the invitation of President Xi, which has been extended, the president wrote in a Truth Social post. Otherwise, no interest! Thank you for your attention to this matter. Updated at 3:34 p.m. EDT. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The United States likely stationed a portion of its nuclear weapons arsenal in the United Kingdom for the first time since 2008, Bloomberg reported on July 28, as the U.S. seeks to reaffirm solidarity with European allies amid increased Russian threats. According to Bloomberg, citing open-source data and defense analysts who spoke with the publication, the U.S. likely delivered the nuclear weapons on July 16, following a flight from the Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico to an airbase in Lakenheath, England. The flight, made by a U.S. C-17 transport aircraft, flew with its transponder on and involved the U.S. Air Force's Prime Nuclear Airlift Force. The weapons deliveries likely comprise of the B61-12 thermonuclear bombs, a newer version of a tactical nuclear weapon first developed during the Cold War, according to Bloomberg. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As per their countries' security policy, the U.S. and U.K. do not comment on the status and location of their nuclear weaponry. The Kyiv Independent cannot verify the reporting given the secrecy surrounding the matter. The reported move comes as U.S. President Donald Trump met with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer on July 28. In recent months, the U.S. has sought to reassure European allies of its commitment to European security amid Russia's ongoing threats and nuclear sabre-rattling against European countries. After a tumultuous start to relations amid Trump's questioning whether Washington should defend alliance members that do not meet military spending, the U.S. president has improved standing with NATO allies in recent months following the alliance's decision to increase military spending to 5% of GDP by 2035. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has also seemingly shifted his position towards Russia in recent weeks amid Russian President Vladimir Putin's rejection of a ceasefire in Ukraine. Trump said on July 28 that he aims to shorten the 50-day tariff deadline he had set to Russian President Vladimir Putin for a peace deal in Ukraine, expressing disappointment with Kremlin leader. "We are going to have to look, and I am going to reduce that 50 days that I gave him to a lesser number because I think I already know the answer what is going to happen." Trump said he now plans to impose a 10- to 12-day deadline starting July 28. Russian officials, including former President Dmitry Medvedev and deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, have repeatedly levied threats against Ukraine and other European countries since the start of Russia's invasion in February 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the threat, Western intelligence agencies have not assessed an immediate threat that Russia is preparing to use tactical nuclear weapons against Ukraine. Read also: I already know the answer Trump to shorten Ukraine deadline for Putin to 1012 days Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. An American woman accused of being involved in a failed assassination attempt has told a trial she did not have a gun at any time during her visit to the UK. Aimee Betro is accused of having flown into the country to take part in a plot to attack a rival family of her co-conspirators in Birmingham. The 45-year-old, from West Allis in Wisconsin, told jurors she did not know there had been an attempted shooting when she left the UK two days after the shootings in September 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She denies conspiracy to murder, possessing a firearm with intent and the illegal importation of ammunition. Prosecutors said she hid her identity using a niqab when she tried to fire shots in Measham Grove, Yardley. But her gun jammed allowing her intended victim to get away. Jurors have been told Ms Betro was part of a plot orchestrated by co-conspirators Mohammed Aslam, 56, and his son Mohammed Nabil Nazir, 31, from Derby, to attack a rival family. Ms Betro told defence barrister Paul Lewis KC she was in Birmingham city centre at the time of the attempted assassination and was with friends at the time of the secondary shooting at the intended victim's house hours later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also maintained that a woman described as having an American accent and being small and fat, who bought a vehicle linked to the plot, was not her. She denied the prosecution's claim that Nazir or his father got her involved in a plan to kill, and that she was the person who actually wielded the gun. She added that she did not have possession of a gun at any time during the night of 7 September into the early hours of 8 September 2023, when three shots were fired at a house in Measham Grove after a woman arrived there in a taxi. The court heard father and son Aslam and Nazir were involved in a feud with intended victim Sikander Ali's father, Aslat Mahumad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nazir and Aslam had been injured during disorder at Mr Mahumad's clothing boutique in Birmingham in July 2018, jurors have been told, leading them to conspire to have someone kill him or a member of his family. Nazir was sentenced to 32 years' imprisonment and Mohammed Aslam was sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment for conspiracy to murder back in November. The trial continues. Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. More on this story Related internet links As international pressure to deliver more food aid to Gaza builds, the Kingdom of Jordan is "continuing to request assistance in the form of pledges to contribute aircraft, supplies, humanitarian aid, and logistical support" for its airdrop operation -- but the Trump administration has no active plans to join European allies in helping with the mission at present, according to an internal State Department communication reviewed by ABC News on Monday and two U.S. officials familiar with the matter. Per the communication, Jordan has informed the State Department of its intention to launch a three-week airdrop operation beginning in early August -- in addition to the drops conducted with the United Arab Emirates that took place Sunday -- and the department is tracking various pledges to assist with the operation from Spain, Belgium, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. "Emphasizing the irreplicable role of land routes and minimizing the risk of casualties due to airdrops are continued concerns among potential contributors," the department communication noted. Eyad Baba/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: Displaced Palestinians at the Nuseirat refugee camp haul food parcels and other items they managed to get from a GHF aid distribution point at the so-called "Netzarim corridor" in the central Gaza Strip, on July 26, 2025. MORE: Jordan, other countries could airdrop aid into Gaza as humanitarian crisis worsens Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some aid organizations have also publicly expressed concerns about the efficacy and safety of airdrops. "Airdrops are the most expensive & inefficient way to deliver aid. It is a distraction to the inaction," Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency Philippe Lazzarini wrote in a post on X on Friday. Earlier Monday, President Donald Trump promised the U.S. would be "even more involved" when it comes to delivering aid to Gaza, saying this administration would work with European allies to set up "food centers" with fewer restrictions on access. He also suggested that additional assistance could come in the form of the U.S. helping with air drops if his administration chose to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We did some airlifts before, some airdrops," he said following a meeting with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. "It's not very hard to do, actually." MORE: 'I don't know': Trump says of Netanyahu denying Gaza starvation crisis Jordan has also informed the State Department that it encountered significant delays when moving aid into Gaza by ground on Sunday, stating that the Israeli government allowed only 25 out of 60 trucks traveling from Jordan to enter the enclave. According to the internal communication, the Jordanian Armed Forces reported that the screening of the aid convoy "went substantially slower" than it has for three previous convoys organized by the country. The 25 trucks that were permitted entry on Sunday were carrying World Food Programme contents, while the delayed trucks were carrying food supplies from other organizations, including World Central Kitchen and the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization, it added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jordan has informed the department of its intention to move two more convoys into Gaza this week, according to the communication. Andrew Harnik/Getty Images - PHOTO: President Donald Trump speaks during a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Trump Turnberry golf club, July 28, 2025 in Turnberry, Scotland. "President Trump wants to alleviate suffering for the people of Gaza because he has a humanitarian heart. He announced a new aid plan today to help Gazans obtain crucial access to food details are forthcoming," White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly said in a comment to ABC News. Trump said earlier that European countries would also help with his plan to set up food centers but shared few other details about his vision. MORE: Israel announces 'tactical' military pause in 3 Gaza areas, as aid routes set to open Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have all of the European nations joining us, and others also have called. So, we're going to set up food centers and where the people can walk in and no boundaries. We're not going to have fences," he said. Regarding ABC News reporting on Jordan's request for assistance with its air drop operation and the reported delay moving ground aid into Gaza caused by Israel, a State Department spokesperson responded, "President Trump has called for creative solutions 'to help the Palestinians' in Gaza, and we welcome any effective effort that delivers food to Gazans and keeps it out of the hands of Hamas." "At this time, GHF remains the best mechanism for getting aid into the hands of people in desperate need in Gaza while also keeping aid out of the hands of Hamas," the spokesperson said, referring to the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. "A track record of distributing over 94 million meals to date while preventing any Hamas looting is absolutely incredible and should be commended and supported. We call on other aid agencies and the UN to participate in this secure aid delivery system and take GHF up on its offer to use its system to deliver food to Gazans in need," the spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration has pledged at least $30 million to the GHF and thrown its full support behind the controversial charity despite concerns from critics regarding its aid distribution practices. Earlier this month, more than 160 charity groups and NGOs called for the GHF to be shut down, claiming that more than 500 Palestinians had been killed while seeking aid from the organization and that its distribution locations have become sites of repeated massacres in blatant disregard for international humanitarian law. The United Nations has also rejected requests to cooperate with GHF. We welcome working with any other partners. All we ask is that those partners work based on the most basic humanitarian principles, one of them being that dont set up an operation that will increase the risk of people to be shot at or trampled while trying to get food, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in a press conference last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation pushed back on the criticism in a statement to ABC News. "While Oxfam, MSF and these other groups hold press conferences and send out threatening letters, GHF is on the ground feeding people," a GHF spokesperson said. "We've offered to help them deliver it safely. They've refused. The humanitarian community must return to its core mission -- feeding people -- not protecting outdated systems or avoiding the discomfort of change. In a letter sent to Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday, a group of 21 Democratic senators called for the Trump administration to immediately cease funding for the GHF and resume support for the existing U.N-led aid coordination mechanisms. There should be no American taxpayer dollars contributing to this scheme, the lawmakers wrote. By Maya Gebeily and Laila Bassam BEIRUT (Reuters) -Washington is ramping up pressure on Beirut to swiftly issue a formal cabinet decision committing to disarm Hezbollah before talks can resume on a halt to Israel's military operations in Lebanon, five sources familiar with the matter told Reuters. Without a public commitment from Lebanese ministers, the U.S. will no longer dispatch U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack to Beirut for negotiations with Lebanese officials, or pressure Israel either to stop airstrikes or pull its troops from south Lebanon, according to the sources, who include two Lebanese officials, two diplomats and a Lebanese source familiar with the matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Washington and Beirut have been in talks for nearly six weeks on a U.S. roadmap to fully disarm the militant Lebanese Hezbollah party in exchange for Israel to end its strikes and withdraw its troops from five points in southern Lebanon. The original proposal included a condition that Lebanon's government pass a cabinet decision pledging to disarm Hezbollah. Hezbollah has publicly refused to hand over its arsenal in full, but the group has privately weighed scaling it back. The group, designated a terrorist organisation by the U.S. and much of the West, has also told Lebanese officials that Israel must take the first step by withdrawing its troops and stopping drone strikes on Hezbollah fighters and arms depots. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hezbollah's main ally, Lebanese speaker of parliament Nabih Berri, asked the U.S. to ensure that Israel halt its strikes as a first step, in order to fully implement the ceasefire agreed last year that ended months of fighting between Hezbollah and Israel, according to four of the sources. Israel rejected Berri's proposal late last week, the four sources said. There was no immediate response from the Israeli prime minister's office to questions from Reuters on the issue. The U.S. then began insisting that a cabinet vote take place imminently, all the sources said. "The U.S. is saying there's no more Barrack, no more papers back and forth - the council of ministers should take a decision and then we can keep discussing. They cannot wait any longer," the Lebanese source said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The source and the Lebanese officials said Prime Minister Nawaf Salam would seek to hold a session in the coming days. Barrack met Salam in Beirut last week and said Washington cannot "compel" Israel to do anything. In a post on X after his visit, Barrack said that "as long as Hezbollah retains arms, words will not suffice. The government and Hizballah need to fully commit and act now in order to not consign the Lebanese people to the stumbling status quo." All the sources said that Lebanon's rulers fear that a failure to issue a clear commitment to disarm Hezbollah could trigger escalated Israeli strikes, including on Beirut. (Reporting by Maya Gebeily and Laila Bassam; Additional reporting by Humeyra Pamuk in Washington; Editing by Howard Goller) The Trump administration has announced a plan to scrap a landmark finding that greenhouse gases are harmful to the environment, severely curbing the federal government's ability to combat climate change. Known as the "Endangerment Finding", the 2009 order from then-President Barack Obama allowed the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to create rules to limit pollution by setting emissions standards. The US is a major contributor to global climate change, and ranks second only to China which emits more planet-warming gases like carbon dioxide and the US still emits more per person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Experts have warned that the move could have a devastating impact on the environment. President Donald Trump has long argued that climate regulations stifle US economic growth, and on his first day back in office in January ordered that the EPA submit recommendations "on the legality and continuing applicability" of the Endangerment Finding. The Endangerment Finding stemmed from a 2007 Supreme Court case in which the court ruled that greenhouse gases are "air pollutants" - meaning that the EPA has the authority and responsibility to regulate them under the US Clean Air Act. In 2009, the EPA made an official decision, the Endangerment Finding, which found that greenhouse gas emissions from sources such as cars, power plants and factories cause climate change and could pose a public health risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision forms the core of the federal government's authority to impose limits on carbon dioxide, methane and other greenhouse gases. In a statement, the EPA said that, if finalised, the move will save Americans $54bn (40bn) in costs annually through the repeal of greenhouse gas standards, including an electric vehicle mandate passed by the Biden administration. Speaking in an episode of the conservative "Ruthless" podcast released on Tuesday, EPA administrator Lee Zeldin said the move was "basically driving a dagger into the heart of the climate change religion". Zeldin said that emissions standards were a "distraction" and that the policy change was "an economic issue". "Repealing it will be the largest deregulatory action in the history of America," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a previous statement on reconsidering the findings in March, Zeldin said that "the Trump Administration will not sacrifice national prosperity, energy security, and the freedom of our people for an agenda that throttles our industries, our mobility, and our consumer choice while benefiting adversaries overseas." The new draft rule from the EPA will now go undergo a public comment period before being subject to an interagency review. If it is successful, the rule will immediately revoke rules governing tailpipe emissions from vehicles. According to the EPA statement, the revocation of those standards will begin with those set in 2010 for light-duty vehicles, as well as those set in 2011 for medium and heavy-duty vehicles and engines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EPA's move is likely to face legal challenges, and some experts have questioned whether the administration's decision will make it through the courts at all. But Richard Revesz, the former administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs in the Biden administration and a law professor at New York University, told the Washington Post that the announcement will still have an impact on US climate change policies until a final decision is made in the court system. "If the endangerment finding fell, it would call into question essentially all or almost all of EPA's regulation of greenhouse gases," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also among those to condemn the announcement was California Governor Gavin Newsom, who in a joint statement with Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers accused the Trump administration of "reckless abandonment of science and the law." "Americans deserve to know the truth from the federal government about the climate crisis," the statement said. "No amount of buying research of firing scientists will change the facts: greenhouse gas pollution causes climate change and endangers our health and welfare - period," it added. (With additional reporting from Mark Poynting) By Daniel Wiessner (Reuters) -A group of U.S. states has filed a lawsuit seeking to block the administration of President Donald Trump from requiring them to hand over information on millions of people who receive food stamp benefits. The 20 mostly Democratic-led states and Washington, D.C., said the Trump administration's efforts to amass a database of food stamp recipients to check their immigration status and identify fraud violate federal privacy laws and the U.S. Constitution. The lawsuit was filed in a federal court in California on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 42 million people receive benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, which is largely funded by the federal government and administered by states. Immigrants in the United States illegally are not eligible for SNAP. The states in their lawsuit say that federal privacy laws and rules governing state food stamp programs bar them from disclosing applicants' personal information. You dont promise to help someone eat, then punish them for sitting at the table, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, a Democrat, said at a press conference. New York, Michigan, Illinois and New Jersey are among the other states that joined the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees SNAP, said it does not comment on pending litigation. The department said in June that it would gather information from states to build the database with the goal of reducing waste and strengthening SNAP, and in keeping with Trump's directives to promote data-sharing across the federal government. The data sought by the department includes the Social Security numbers, immigration status and other information of people who have received, are receiving or have applied to receive SNAP benefits, according to agency documents. States could lose SNAP funding if they refuse to comply. The massive U.S. tax cut and policy bill approved by Congress earlier this month makes various changes and cuts to SNAP, including requiring states to partially fund benefits and imposing work requirements and time limits. (Reporting by Daniel Wiessner in Albany, New York; Editing by Matthew Lewis) U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said talks with China are going in the right direction as negotiators in Washington and Beijing try to break an impasse on tariffs. Obviously, weve had a lot of tensions over the years. Weve had tensions now. But the fact that we are regularly meeting with them to address these issues, I think that gives us a good footing for these negotiations, Greer said during a Monday appearance on MSNBCs Morning Joe. Now, whether therell be a deal or not, I cant say. Whether theres room for an extension, I cant say at this point, Greer added. But the conversations are constructive, and theyre going in the right direction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tariffs on Chinese imports stand at 30 percent, while China has leveled a 10 percent levy on goods from the U.S. Officials from both nations are negotiating in Stockholm as the Aug. 12 end of a 90-day truce on even higher duties approaches. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met Monday at the Swedish prime ministers office in an effort to hammer out an agreement between the worlds two largest economies. President Trump said Monday he was not seeking a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, but would be open to traveling to China if invited. The Fake News is reporting that I am SEEKING a Summit with President Xi of China. This is not correct, I am not SEEKING anything! I may go to China, but it would only be at the invitation of President Xi, which has been extended, the president wrote in a Truth Social post. Otherwise, no interest! Thank you for your attention to this matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The White House recently scored structured trade deals with the European Union, Japan and the United Kingdom following Trumps announcement of Liberation Day tariffs. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Editors note: The Navy announced it suspended its search for the missing sailor on Wednesday, July 30. Read our updated coverage here. The aircraft carrier George Washington is conducting search-and-rescue operations in the Timor Sea for a sailor reported missing, the U.S. Navy said Tuesday. The carrier began search efforts after receiving reports of a possible sailor overboard, the Navy said in a brief release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Units assigned to Carrier Strike Group 5, along with the Australian Defence Force and the Australian Border Force, are assisting in the effort. The Navy did not disclose the missing sailors identity, in line with service policy. The release did not disclose additional details about the specific location of the search. Death row inmate Ralph Menzies appears in 3rd District Court on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. (Pool photo by Francisco Kjolseth/The Salt Lake Tribune) The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole has granted Ralph Menzies a commutation hearing ahead of the death row inmates Sept. 5 firing squad execution. During the hearing, the board will decide whether to grant Menzies clemency, which would spare him from execution and instead impose a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats never happened in Utah, according to data from the Death Penalty Information Center. During the hearing, both Menzies and the state will be able to call witnesses to testify for, and against, granting clemency. Neither party will be able to cross-examine witnesses. The board has not yet set a date for the hearing. Menzies attorneys have argued that the 67-year-old inmate is suffering from a severe form of vascular dementia that continues to advance, making him incompetent and therefore ineligible for execution. Both state and federal law require that death row inmates have an understanding of why theyre being executed Menzies dementia is so bad he lacks that understanding, his attorneys say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After a monthslong competency review, a judge found that Menzies does have dementia, but doesnt meet the high bar to be deemed incompetent. Last week, the court heard arguments for and against granting Menzies another competency review, with the death row inmates attorneys claiming that in the time since his initial evaluation, which was done last year, his dementia has worsened. Utahs 3rd District Judge Matthew Bates is currently considering whether to grant him another review. If the judge rules in favor of Menzies, it could kick off a 60-day process where a medical professional examines the inmate and compiles a report for the court depending on the reports findings, Menzies could be found incompetent, and spared from execution. Menzies was convicted of murder in 1988 after he kidnapped Maurine Hunsaker, a 26-year-old gas station clerk, and took her up Big Cottonwood Canyon where she was later found tied to a tree with her throat slashed. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Utah husband, wife accused of selling narcotics out of home with children IRON COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) A husband and wife duo in southern Utah were arrested on Monday, accused of selling narcotics out of their Iron County home in front of their two young toddlers. Brandon James Tweed, 30, and Marjorie Susan Tweed, 37, were both booked into the Iron County Jail, where they face two counts of second-degree felony distribution of a controlled substance and two counts of second-degree felony prohibited dangerous weapon conduct. Brandon also faces four counts of third-degree felony endangerment of a child, while Marjorie faces six counts of the same charge. Agents with the Iron/Garfield/Beaver Narcotics Task Force had been reportedly investigating the Tweeds over the past several months. In that time, the task force set up multiple controlled buys to buy methamphetamine from the two. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three charged after 9-month-old hospitalized for fentanyl overdose, documents say Undercover agents wore recording wires during each of the controlled buys and reported that the children were present during the transactions and could be heard in the recordings. Brandon Tweed was safely taken into custody after leaving the home on Monday, July 28. During his arrest, he allegedly admitted to having a small amount of drugs in the house as well as two guns in the hall closet. Meanwhile, agents watching the home reported seeing Marjorie Tweed leave the home for a short time, leaving the two toddlers behind alone. When she returned, she was approached by task force agents and safely taken into custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Agents searched the home and allegedly found needles and drugs within reach of the children. The two guns were also found in the closet, one on the top shelf and one taken apart into pieces on the middle shelf. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. The Utah Auditors Office announced Tuesday it had identified up to $2.8 million in public funds that were misused by a nonprofit organization due to inadequate oversight by state agencies. The auditors Limited Review alleges the former president of Impact Utah, a manufacturing consulting group, redirected state and federal funds from the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, or MEP, program for private expenditures. The former president was not named in the report and apparently has not been charged with any crimes at this point. However, the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity has confirmed there is now an ongoing, active investigation with the Utah Attorney General. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the auditors investigation, which was launched after a complaint was received through the State Auditor hotline, the executive director of Impact Utah has resigned and Impact Utah will cease operations on July 31. What are MEP funds? Since 2020, state MEP funding, appropriated by the Utah Legislature to match federal MEP grants, passed through the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity with the majority then being distributed to the Utah Industry Resource Alliance. The Utah Industry Resource Alliance, composed of the University of Utah, Utah State University and Impact Utah, receives $2.8 million in ongoing state funds each year to provide training and support to Utah manufacturers. Tuesdays report found that the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity and Utah State University, which administer state MEP funds in cooperation with the University of Utah, which administers federal MEP funds, both failed to monitor Impact Utahs operations in compliance with state code. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lack of clear accountability and oversight in the distribution of public funds creates a serious vulnerability, Utah State Auditor Tina Cannon said. In this case, a nonprofit organization tasked with supporting Utahs manufacturers misused taxpayer dollars, enabled by breakdowns in oversight across several layers of responsibility. In response to the report, the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) sent a statement to the Deseret News, saying the office dedicates significant time and resources to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse. We join with Utah State University, a trusted partner, in expressing disappointment about how an officer of Impact Utah allegedly misused grant funds, the statement said. GOEO appreciates the diligent work of the Office of the State Auditor in investigating the complaint. We believe strongly in transparency and accountability and are reviewing our processes to ensure that taxpayer money is being used appropriately. GOEO will continue to work with the Office of the Utah Attorney General during this ongoing, active investigation. How was the money misused? The auditors review found that between $1.8 million and $2.8 million in MEP funding was spent inappropriately from 2022 until the end of 2024 by the former president of Impact Utah, who was not named in the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than $2.1 million was transferred from the nonprofit by Impact Utahs former president to Vereo Impact, Inc., a for-profit corporation, of which the former president was the majority shareholder, the report found. Impact Utah and Vereo were inappropriately treated as two branches of the same company, according to the report: $400,000 was transferred from Impact Utah to Vereo to purchase another business entity, $100,000 to pay Vereo debt, $50,000 to pay Vereo operating expenses and $26,000 to purchase assets for Vereo. Impact Utah funds were also used inappropriately to boost the former presidents salary to nearly $519,000 per year, including benefits and bonuses, which was more than double the average compensation received by presidents of other similar nonprofits, according to the report. Impact Utahs former president also spent at least $35,715 on personal vacations to Las Vegas, Hawaii, and Florida, including activities like a helicopter tour and a snorkel cruise, as well as other expenses like massages, subscriptions and haircuts that had no legitimate business purpose, the report said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, the report identified nearly $10,000 in political donations made by Impact Utah to three state campaigns and one federal campaign in 2023 and 2024, which is illegal because as a 501(c)(3) entity Impact Utah is prohibited by the IRS from funding campaigns. We, at Impact Utah, wish to express our deep regret and sincere apology for the shortcomings in financial management that occurred under former leadership, the leadership of Impact Utah told Deseret News in a statement. The results of the Auditors limited review have brought to light issues that fell short of the high standards of transparency, accountability, and integrity. ... We are profoundly sorry for this breach of trust. What changes will be made? Based on its findings, the auditors report recommended that the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity and Utah State University establish professional oversight standards to comply with state statutes related to grant funds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the administering agency, the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity was asked to adopt additional monitoring requirements for MEP project recipients, like Utah State University, to then apply to subrecipients, like Impact Utah. The report also called on the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity and Utah State University to determine whether any of the misused MEP funding could be recovered and to consider referring the reports findings to law enforcement officials. In their official responses to the investigation as part of the report, the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity and Utah State University accepted all of the recommendations, but suggested that contracts and state documentation hindered their oversight. In a statement to the Deseret News, a university spokesperson said Utah State University is deeply disappointed by the egregious misuse of state funds by Impact Utah and is committed to recover the money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Based on the gaps highlighted by the Office of the State Auditor, USU made immediate changes to ensure that all state-approved flow-through funds are subject to USUs standard internal monitoring and oversight processes, the statement said. The University of Utah MEP center stayed in contact with the National Institute of Standards and Technology MEP center throughout the course of the investigation, according to the universitys response to Cannons recommendations. The university said it issued a Stop-Work order to Impact Utah on March 26 under federal guidance. In May, the universitys MEP center received full marks in its Federal Annual Review for financial records and reports. Impact Utah leadership, in their statement to the Deseret News, said the decision to cease operations is meant to protect the long-term integrity of the Utah MEP program, which they promised will implement stronger financial safeguards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The organization assured clients that there would be no disruption in service, ensuring that all prior engagements will be honored at no additional charge. In a separate statement to the Deseret News, the Utah Manufacturers Association clarified that as a non-voting member of the Utah-MEP Alliance it does not have direct oversight or involvement in the financial operations or program administration of the broader MEP network or Impact Utah. The Minnesota State Patrol plans to hire a third-party expert for a full security assessment at the Minnesota State Capitol complex, the agency announced Monday. The plans have been discussed since the shootings of lawmakers last month, the State Patrol said. Earlier Monday, a Vadnais Heights lawmaker called for an independent investigation of Capitol security and rapid response protocols after the killings in June and because a man was found on the Capitol grounds over the weekend when hed already been removed twice in the preceding 24 hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House DFL leader Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were fatally shot and DFL Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were shot and wounded in their homes on June 14. Sen. Heather Gustafson, DFL, is asking the Office of the Legislative Auditor to examine how emergency information was shared, what security measures were in place, and what improvements are needed to better protect legislators and staff, both inside and outside the Capitol, said a Monday statement. She requested that the review assess the response timelines and communication practices of relevant agencies and legislative leadership, including protocols that govern notification of elected officials in the event of a threat or active danger. The Office of the Legislative Auditor has received several requests to conduct a special review on Capitol security and rapid response protocols, said Legislative Auditor Judy Randall. We have not yet decided whether to conduct a review into these concerns. OLA staff will gather additional information over the coming weeks that will help to inform our decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gustafson said her request, made on Wednesday, is not about blame. Its about learning the right lessons and putting safeguards in place to ensure no one has to question their safety while serving at the Capitol. Ramsey County sheriff continues to push for answers Minnesota Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson, the head of the State Patrol and other law enforcement are planning a press briefing Tuesday to discuss the importance of hiring a firm for an independent security review, according to a Monday media advisory. The assessment is in addition to measures already taken to improve security at the Capitol complex in collaboration with local law enforcement partners. Earlier Monday, Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher continued to push DPS for answers on the notification processes for legislators and law enforcement in an emergency. He reiterated that hed asked State Patrol Capitol Security Division Capt. Eric Roeske and House of Representatives Sergeant at Arms Lori Hodapp two questions in a July 7 letter: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 1. Who, or which agency, is responsible to notify legislators quickly that they are potential victims of a violent criminal stalking them? he wrote. 2. Who, or which agency, is responsible to notify law enforcement agencies in a timely fashion that legislators in their jurisdiction are in potential immediate danger? He said in Mondays letter to Jacobson that those questions havent been answered. Vance Boelter, now 58, is charged in federal and state court with the murders of Melissa and Mark Hortman at their Brooklyn Park home, and the shootings of John and Yvette Hoffman and the attempted shooting of their daughter Hope Hoffman at their Champlin home. Prosecutors say Boelter was driving a fake squad car, wearing tactical gear and announced himself as an officer when he went to the Hoffman home around 2 a.m. on June 14. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boelter went to two more legislators homes, though he didnt encounter them, before he arrived at the Hortman residence about 3:30 a.m. the same day, according to federal charges. Several notebooks full of hand-written notes were found in Boelters vehicle he left behind when he fled the Hortman home, the charges said. They included the names of dozens of Minnesota state and federal elected officials, along with the names of some abortion rights supporters, the U.S. Attorney for Minnesota previously said. The Department of Public Safety previously said teletype notifications digital inter-agency notices went out to metro-area law enforcement agencies: one from the Brooklyn Park Police Department at 4:25 a.m. and another from the State Patrol at 4:40 a.m. The notifications mentioned that the suspected shooter appeared to be impersonating a police officer and urged agencies to monitor elected officials residences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jacobson previously said: Notifications were sent to the proper parties early that morning. Well be discussing that in greater detail with the sheriff and the others as the investigation continues. After a nearly 48-hour search, Boelter was taken into custody near his home in rural Sibley County, Minn. Timeline for notifications Fletcher wrote in Mondays letter that, during a July 9 law enforcement briefing with Jacobson, several chiefs and sheriffs raised the issue of delayed notification on June 14th. Fletcher said he was aware that Roeske was notified at 2:37 a.m. of the shootings of the Hoffmans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to the 4:40 a.m. teletype, Fletcher said a State Patrol captain called one of his undersheriffs at 6:42 a.m. Fletcher said he talked at 7 a.m. to the superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, who told him some names of legislators on Boelters list. Hodapp emailed Fletcher at 7:57 a.m. with a list of names of legislators she believed were in their patrol district, he wrote. A thorough analysis of state actions during this initial five hour time period seems prudent since limited information was forwarded to the potential targets or law enforcement agencies in their area of residence, he wrote. Man found at Capitol arrested earlier in week In the weekend incidents, State Patrol troopers arrested a 36-year-old man just before 7:30 p.m. Saturday when he arrived at the Capitol grounds for the third time, according to the State Patrol. He remained in the Ramsey County jail Monday, being held on a warrant from Wisconsin related to misdemeanor fraud against a financial institution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An alarm system alerted Capitol Security about 11:30 p.m. Friday that a man, later identified as the 36-year-old, was in the Capitol after hours. He was naked and nonviolent, and it was quickly determined that he needed a mental health evaluation, the State Patrol said in a Saturday statement. He was taken to Regions Hospital for an evaluation. He was seen again on the Capitol grounds, not in the building, about 7:30 a.m. Saturday and was again taken to Regions for an evaluation. The State Patrol said they believe the hospital released the man both times. A HealthPartners spokesperson said, citing patient confidentiality, that she couldnt address specific questions. Providing high-quality and safe patient care is our top priority, she said in an email. We follow strict standards of care when assessing, treating and discharging patients. The man has been charged seven times in Minnesota this year, for mostly minor offenses (with one instance of felony auto theft), all in Ramsey County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement St. Paul police had arrested the man at the Midway Target last Tuesday and he was charged with entering the building with intent to steal, misdemeanor theft and trespassing. Fletcher said Wisconsin law enforcement would only extradite within Wisconsin, so he couldnt be held on the warrant. He was out of jail on Thursday on conditional release. On Saturday, State Patrol officials worked throughout the day with Wisconsin officials on the extradition issue, the State Patrol said, which is how the warrant was changed to allow him to be extradited from Minnesota. The State Patrol said Saturday theyre investigating how the man was in the Capitol after public hours Friday and added there was no indication he broke in. The State Patrol will be conducting a comprehensive review to determine how this happened and make any necessary updates to Capitol security protocols, the statement said. Several Montana ballot initiative campaigns got started this week with an eye on the 2026 general election. The two ballot initiative campaigns that touched base this week with the Secretary of States Office, which largely administers the process, are proposals to preserve judicial elections as nonpartisan and vanquish dark money in state campaigns. Signature gatherers most commonly associated with these ballot initiative campaigns are usually a more active element in the summer of the actual election year. The early start on qualifying those ballot initiatives and notifying the public about them gives their sponsors a longer runway to educate voters on the proposals. The Montana Plan The Transparent Election Initiative aims to undo in Montana the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision in Citizens United under what the campaigns members are calling the Montana Plan. The 2010 court decision opened the door for corporations, nonprofits and unions to spend unlimited money in elections, as the 5-4 majority decision found such spending was free speech under the First Amendment that could not be curtailed. The group released the proposed ballot statement and full initiative text on Monday and plans to file with the Secretary of States Office on Friday. The proposal would add a new section to the Montana Constitution that says artificial persons defined as business, nonprofit or limited-liability corporations, foreign business entities and other types of associations and partnerships have no powers over election activity or ballot issues. At its core, the primary mechanism of the initiative seeks to redefine what corporations are legally capable of and grant them only powers necessary to conduct their lawful business or charitable purposes, thus removing the latitude they currently have in campaign spending, the organizers say. The ballot statement says the amendment affirms that the people of Montana never intended for artificial persons to have the power to spend on elections or ballot issues. It does allow political committees to spend money on elections and ballot initiatives, but would prohibit such spending for 501(c)(4) nonprofits. When the group launched the initiative, some elections and ballot initiative experts expressed some skepticism in interviews with the Montana State News Bureau that the idea would work or pass legal muster. But the Transparent Election Initiative said this week that Matthew Cochenour, a former Montana assistant attorney general and acting solicitor general, drafted the proposal and that it had been reviewed extensively by legal scholars and government leaders. This is not about limiting speech its about defining what powers corporations get in the first place, Jeff Mangan, the former Commissioner of Political Practices and leader of the Transparent Election Initiative, said in a statement. Montana will show the country that one state can make a difference. Nonpartisan judicial elections Another campaign outfit submitted its paperwork with the Secretary of States Office on Tuesday, looking to push back against a persistent GOP proposal to politicize judicial elections. Since 1935, Montana has elected judges without party labels, said J.D. Pepper Petersen, political director for the campaign thats taken up the name Fair and Impartial Judges. The constitutional amendment would preserve the Montana way of electing judges focused on qualifications and fairness, not party politics, Petersen said in an emailed statement on Tuesday. The campaign to keep the current nonpartisan status of Montanas judicial campaigns comes in direct response to an aggressive and failed attempt by Republicans at the state Legislature this year to recast those elections with party labels for candidates. Judicial elections already tend to be low-information contests because candidates are barred from speaking about issues that may come before them if elected to the court. Some GOP officials argue party labels would give voters a more-educated footing from which to cast their ballot. Opponents of that plan, which included an impenetrable and bipartisan voting bloc in the last Legislature, insist the judicial branch is stronger without being further infected by politics. The political team behind Fair and Impartial Judges was successful in their last ballot initiative campaign, which legalized recreational marijuana use in 2020 by a wide margin from voters. The press release issued by the campaign on Tuesday was accompanied with supporting statements from former Democratic Gov. Brian Schweitzer and former Republican Secretary of State Bob Brown. Petersen said in a phone interview on Tuesday the campaigns plan is to move quickly to gather the estimated 60,000 signatures needed to reach the ballot in 2026. Weve done this before; we know how long it takes, he said. If you want to be on the ballot in 26, you get on the ballot when you have the opportunity to do it. ... This is a constitutional initiative. That takes some significant requirements for signature gathering. The proposals will also be subject to several layers of review before they can even be approved for signature gathering. They will be analyzed by the Legislative Service Division for formatting clarity, then go through the Attorney General and governors budget director for a legal sufficiency review. During the 2024 ballot initiative cycle, three different initiatives were held up by Attorney General Austin Knudsen over what he said were legal insufficiencies, but the groups were able through the court system to have their language approved for signature gathering. All three made the November 2024 ballot, but only one, which enshrined abortion protections in the state constitution, was approved by Montana voters. Two other ballot initiatives have already been approved for signature gathering, both submitted by Bozeman attorney and former Republican legislator Matthew Monforton. The two initiatives would limit the annual increase in the valuation of primary residences and real property to 2% when assessing property taxes unless the property is sold to a new owner outside the original owners family. Monforton said Tuesday hes meeting with organizers next week to set the table for their signature gathering campaign. Vice President Vances half brother is blaming a Saturday brawl in Cincinnati on local leaders shortcomings. We have to look at the root issue of this, and thats mismanagement. We have this saying: Thats trickle-down incompetence. This incompetence is coming from the top down, and we have to fix it, Cory Bowman, whos running for mayor, said during a Monday appearance on Elizabeth Vargas Reports. Five people have been arrested for their actions during the incident. Video shows a man being stomped in the streets as bystanders watch. A woman can also be seen being punched by a man. When she falls, her head appears to hit the street hard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bowman said the event symbolizes a rise in the citys violent crime. He told anchor Hena Doba that there is shock, theres disbelief, theres horror in the reactions of it. But then, Im looking at it from somebody that lives six blocks away from the incident, and the reality of it is that for the people that live in the downtown area, these images arent just shocking, but theyre also a reminder of what weve had to go through with rising crime throughout the entire summer. Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa A. Theetge said only one person called the police to report the violence. Bowman said he was skeptical of her statements after speaking with a local resident who said she called 911. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She sent me a screenshot of it, and it was at 3:03 a.m. The police chief said that they only received one call at 3:06 a.m., and I doubt that Im in contact with the only person that called 911 that night, Bowman said, referring to the call. She also said that the dispatcher was also very rude and dismissive of it, he added. Bowman also said city manager Sheryl Long, a woman of color, should be removed from the post, alleging shes unable to handle the job. Theres been a proven track record to where this administration, through the city managers office, has proven time and time again that theyre not ready for this task, let alone the crime, Bowman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres been certain initiatives that they pushed that havent done anything to help the community. The Hill reached out to Longs office for comment. Updated at 8:53 a.m. EDT Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Vice President Vance defended the Trump administrations handling of the files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during a press conference in Canton, Ohio, after an appearance to promote the big, beautiful bill. The president has been very clear. Were not shielding anything, Vance said in response to a question from a reporter. Hes been incredibly transparent about that stuff, but some of that stuff takes time. The furor from the MAGA base over Epstein put Vance, who has in the past entertained conspiracy theories about the convicted sex offender, in a tricky position after the FBI and Department of Justice (DOJ) released a memo maintaining that the disgraced financier died by suicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vance reportedly served as a mediator between Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino after Bongino aired quitting the week the memo was released. But he otherwise largely stayed quiet as the administration tried to contain the fallout. Now, several weeks later, the MAGA-verses focus on the issue has abated, despite multiple reports from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal about Trumps ties to Epstein findings the president has strenuously denied. The presidents attempt to have grand jury transcripts about Epstein unsealed was also defeated in Florida last week, although a ruling has yet to be made in Epsteins criminal case in New York. In Ohio, Vance attempted to pin blame on anyone but the president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For four years, under Joe Bidens Department of Justice, the media didnt give a damn about the Epstein files or about the Epstein case, he said. He also blamed the Bush and Obama administrations for not fully investigating the case. Donald J. Trump, Im telling you, hes got nothing to hide, he said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Vice President JD Vance said that anyone who opposed President Donald Trump's "one big, beautiful bill" should face consequences ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The measure includes key provisions that would permanently establish individual and business tax breaks included in Trump's 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, and incorporates new tax deductions to cut duties on tips and overtime pay. All Democrats, along with five Republicans in both the House and the Senate, voted against the massive tax and domestic policy bill. However, Trump signed it into law on July 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Anybody who voted against it, I think they ought to pay a penalty," Vance said Monday in Canton, Ohio. "Because they voted against all those great things for the people of Akron and the people of Northeastern Ohio." Trump Signs Big, Beautiful Bill In Sweeping Victory For Second Term Agenda, Overcoming Dems And Gop Rebels Vice President JD Vance speaks at the Metallus plant in Canton, Ohio, on Monday, July 28, 2025. "The craziest thing is if youre a Democrat and you dont like this legislation, then come and talk to us," Vance said. "Make some proposed changes. Tell us You know, this provision isnt so good. Wed like to change it a little bit, and if we change it, then I can get to yes. This is the process of government. And these guys didnt even come to the White House and try to make their concerns known. They didnt try to make the legislation better. They just attack, attack, attack." Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vance then said he believed Democrats dont care about grocery prices, whether employees receive a raise or not, or if Americans are even employed in the first place. "Their obsession in government is letting illegal aliens into this country, and attacking Donald J. Trump," Vance said. "I dont think the American people should reward that broken style of politics, and I dont think theyre going to come November 2026." Vances remarks come as he champions the "big, beautiful bill," with Republicans looking to defend their slim House majority and potentially pick up a few seats in the high-stakes 2026 midterm elections. Jd Vance Poised To Clinch Victory For Trump's Landmark Bill As Gop Finalizes Strategy Vice President JD Vance tours the Metallus plant in Canton, Ohio, on Monday, July 28, 2025. Vance visited Pennsylvanias 8th District on July 16, when he praised the measure and offered support for the districts Republican representative, Rep. Rob Bresnahan, who was elected in 2024 and is in a vulnerable seat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vance is also slated to speak at fundraisers for the Republican National Committee on Tuesday in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Big Sky, Montana, Axios first reported. Among those who voted against the "big, beautiful bill" in Ohio was Rep. Emilia Sykes, who represents Canton, where Vance spoke on Monday. Sykes is in a vulnerable district as well and barely secured a victory over her opponent in the 2024 election by 2.2 percentage points, according to The New York Times. A spokesperson for Vance doubled down on the vice presidents remarks on Monday and pointed to a new Wall Street Journal poll released on Friday that found that 63% of voters hold a negative view towards Democrats, and only 33% hold a favorable one a new low since 1990. Tax Cuts, Work Requirements And Asylum Fees: Here's What's Inside The Senate's Version Of Trump's Bill Elon Musk's "America Party" announcement comes on the heels of President Donald Trump signing the One, Big Beautiful Bill Act at the White House on the Fourth of July. "The Democrats just hit their lowest approval rating in 35 years, and all they can do is distract voters from the enormous wins the Trump administration is racking up," a Vance spokesperson said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "Voters are sick of Democrat politicians constantly blowing hot air. Meanwhile, the vice president is visiting contested House districts around the country selling the substantive provisions in the presidents landmark One Big Beautiful Bill." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Fox News poll released this month revealed that a majority of voters oppose the "big, beautiful bill." The poll, which was conducted between July 18 and 21, found that 58% of all registered voters oppose the measure, while 39% approve of it. Fox News Poll: Trump Facing Headwinds At Six-month Mark Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., questions Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell during the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee hearing titled "The Semiannual Monetary Policy Report to the Congress," in the Dirksen Building on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. No Democrats got on board backing the "big, beautiful bill," joined by Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine, Thom Tillis of North Carolina, and Rand Paul of Kentucky and Republican Reps. Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., labeled the bill "cruel" during floor remarks that lasted hours on July 3, pointing to Medicaid and SNAP reforms that reports suggest would remove millions of beneficiaries from the programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What is contemplated in this one big, ugly bill is wrong. Its dangerous, and its cruel, and cruelty should not be either the objective or the outcome of legislation that we consider here in the United States House of Representatives," Jeffries said. Original article source: Vance warns of 'penalty' for Dems who opposed the 'big, beautiful, bill' ahead of 2026 midterms EAST LIVERPOOL, Ohio (WKBN) Its time to celebrate various forms of art in East Liverpool. Arts Week started Tuesday at the Lou Holtz Hall of Fame. There is art on display, and there are numerous workshops and classes for you to learn and try various types of art, like copper tray painting, colored pencil bird drawing, or oil painting. Last year, this was just an artist retreat. Now, its grown into a whole week of art for everyone to participate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think it spreads the message that East Liverpool is a place of charm and culture and commerce. Its very vibrant. We have artists literally coming out of the woodwork here, and professional people that have all contributed to the show here. I think it really sets us up in a good light, said artist Sheri Liebschner. There are events each day this week at the Lou Holtz Hall of Fame. The week ends with an artist retreat from Friday through Sunday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A Democratic congressman who represents Southern New Mexico said the on-again, off-again tariff policies of the Trump Administration are causing uncertainty and hurting the economy. U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez, D-New Mexico, who represents a sprawling district that includes Dona Ana County, said uncertainty over trade and tariffs is hurting places like Santa Teresa, which has shown booming growth in international trade in recent years. If we want to grow jobs locally, we have to invest and we have to have certainty in our tariff policies and this administration is creating a very chaotic environment, Vasquez said Tuesday, July 28 during a visit to Santa Teresa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vasquez spent the day meeting with representatives from different industries in Santa Teresa, hearing their concerns and fears. Uncertainty over tariffs is hurting a wide range of industries including logistics and manufacturing, Vasquez said. Everyday folks, they will see higher grocery store prices. Goods will cost more to produce and transport, Vasquez said. It will be an overall negative force for our economy. We will feel it in our pocketbooks in the months to come. Vasquez told KTSM that hundreds of jobs in the Santa Teresa area have already been lost because of uncertainty over trade and tariff policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a problem for any business that wants to predict the future, he said. Businesses are either afraid to relocate or expand because of all the chaos and uncertainty, Vasquez said. Vasquez said one of the reasons he originally ran for Congress was to help break the partisan gridlock in Washington. That means being willing to reach across the aisle and work with Republicans, he said. You have to be willing to sit down at the table; you dont have to agree on everything, he said. Voters are frustrated that Congress hasnt been working on things like housing affordibility, health care, veterans issues, he said. Those are problems Congress could fix today. Lets not forget immigration. Both parties have not worked on that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jerry Pacheco, president of the New Mexico Border Industrial Association, said companies are getting scrunched from people who arent placing orders or postponing their buying decisions because of uncertainty over tariffs. Also, businesses arent willing to make multimillion-dollar decisions to relocate or expand to a place like Santa Teresea because of that uncertainty, he said. Michael Aboud, chairman of the El Paso County Republican Party, said that high fuel prices remain the real drag on the economy. President Trump has come to an agreement with the EU on a tariff of 15 percent, which is great news, Aboud said. It is my observation that fuel prices are still too high, which are left over from the Biden Administration. Its these high fuel prices that are having more of a negative effect on the economy than tariffs. Once fuel prices come down, the economy will stabilize and start to fully recover. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. ZEELAND TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) A man who died after being thrown from a vehicle during a crash in Zeeland Township was driving a Consumers Energy truck, deputies say. Deputies: 1 dead after Zeeland Township crash Around 7:30 p.m. Friday, the 43-year-old Blendon Township man was headed south on 88th Avenue in a Consumers Energy F-550 truck approaching Ransom Street, according to the Ottawa County Sheriffs Office. A 64-year-old Park Township woman was headed west on Ransom Street in a Toyota Corolla. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two collided, throwing the man from the truck. He died at the scene, according to deputies. The woman in the Toyota was taken to the hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. In a statement provided to News 8, Consumers Energy said it was devastated by the loss. Our hearts are with our coworkers family and loved ones, and we are providing resources to support our fellow coworkers who have known and worked with him, Consumers said. We encourage the public to be safe while traveling and to keep this person and his family in their thoughts. The Ottawa County Sheriffs Office is investigating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. A nearly 200-year-old pub, the Radnor Arms in rural Wales stood abandoned a few years ago. Water ran down the walls, ivy crept around broken windows and rats' skeletons littered the floor. Fast forward to 2025 and laughter rings out of the newly reopened watering hole after locals clubbed together to save it. The pub, which first opened in the 1830s, is one of tens of thousands across the UK forced to call last orders over recent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once the heart of the village, the Radnor Arms -- which had become uneconomic due to rising costs -- was shut by the landlord in 2016 and quickly fell into ruin. For locals in the picturesque south Wales village of New Radnor, population 438, the demise of their only remaining hostelry was devastating. Over the years, there were around six or more pubs or ale houses in the village. By 2012, all except the Radnor Arms had shut down. "It was the heart of the village," said David Pyle, a 57-year-old retired psychiatrist who has lived next door to the pub for the past 18 years. "Sometimes you could hear a bit of hubbub, sometimes you'd hear a roar go up when Wales scored, or a male voice choir singing in the back bar," he told AFP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was just lovely," he said. "And then it closed." - British tradition - UK pubs, a quintessential cornerstone of community life, are increasingly under threat. Faced with changing drinking habits and spiralling bills, more than a quarter of the 60,800 in existence in 2000 have closed their doors in the past 25 years. Of the 45,000 still operating at the end of last year, 378 -- at least one a day -- are expected to close this year, according to the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA). The loss of Radnor Arms in 2016 left the village without a focal point, hitting everyone from hobby groups to local hill farmers who would meet there after work for a pint of beer and a chat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was the heart of the community. It was a place where anybody could come in," said Sue Norton, one of a team of locals who banded together to save it. "We celebrated births, deaths and marriages here. So for us, it was very emotional when it closed," she said. Vowing to rescue it, Norton and other villagers applied to a government scheme aimed at giving people the financial firepower to take ownership of pubs or shops at risk of being lost. A major fundraising effort last year drummed up 200,000 ($271,000), which was matched by the community ownership fund and boosted by an additional 40,000 government grant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With 440,000 in the kitty, the villagers were able to buy, refurbish and re-open the pub, relying on a rota of volunteers to work behind the bar rather than paid staff. Ukrainian refugee Eugene Marchenko, a 44-year-old lawyer who is one of the volunteers, says the pub helped him meet practically everyone within days of arriving. Marchenko, from the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro, is being hosted by a villager along with his wife and teenage son. He said he quickly came to understand the importance of having a place in the village for "drinking and having fun together". "I read in books that the pub was a famous British tradition, but I can feel it myself... It's not just about the drinking alcohol, it's about the sharing and everybody knows each other," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - Lifeline axed - The previous Conservative government launched the community ownership fund in 2021. Under the scheme locals have successfully saved around 55 pubs, according to the community ownership charity Plunkett UK. The pubs are run democratically on a one-member, one-vote basis by those who contributed to the fundraiser. But the new Labour government, which took power a year ago, dropped the scheme in December as they sought to meet competing funding demands. Villagers in New Radnor are relieved to have got their application in under the wire but saddened that other communities will not benefit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For now they are planning to make the most of their new community hub. There are plans to host a range of activities -- from mother-and-baby mornings to a dementia group that aims to trigger memories through familiar sights and sounds. Sufferers and their carers could come and have a "drink or a bag of crisps -- or a pickled onion, if people like those," Norton said. har/jkb/js/tc VINCENNES, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) A group of students made up from Vincennes Universitys Biology and Earth Science Clubs recently returned from an educational trip to Iceland. Nine students and three faculty members from the College of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics explored Icelands landscape and enjoyed firsthand experience in one of the worlds most ecologically active environments over 10 days. Iceland was very exciting, it was one of the best experiences at VU, and it was a wonderful opportunity, said Eden Elpers, the Earth Science Club President. VU was able to give me the amazing opportunity of going to Iceland for a small price while also learning. It helped me learn more about Iceland in ways that were relevant to my major, as well as learn other things such as geology. The group got to hike Icelands second-tallest waterfall, explore volcanic sites, swim in a thermal river, hike on a glacier, and kayak among the scenery. Students also got the opportunity to study local plant and animal life while exploring the countrys geology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One student shared, The trip was an incredible chance to see a landscape Ive never gotten to experience. The wildlife and geology of entirely new places can spark so much curiosity, and I think thats incredibly important for young adults in the sciences. This was a great opportunity to interact with unique people, particularly those involved in research. Vincennes University collaborates with Walmart to train associates Students were also able to learn about Icelandic culture and history. They learned about Vikings, visited cultural landmarks, and interacted with the locals, all while making memories. The beach was very memorable and exciting, as well as sitting at the cabin and watching birds at dusk, Elpers said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The students participated in multiple fundraising events to make the trip a reality. This includes selling discount cards, final exam survival packs, hosting car washes, and obtaining donations. Vincennes University hopes the trip broadened the students horizons and helped fuel their passion for travel, science, and exploration. College of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics Dean Curt Coffman said, These experiences help transform their understanding of the world and enrich their personal growth. This kind of education sets our students apart and blends adventure with a deeper connection to learning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyWabashValley.com. Multiple ambulances and police vehicles respond to a shooting at CrossPointe Community Church in Wayne, Mich., in June. Homicides fell 17% in the first half of 2025 compared with the same period in 2024, according to the Council on Criminal Justices latest crime trends report. (Photo by Emily Elconin/Getty Images) Amid recent political rhetoric about rising crime and violence in American cities, a new analysis shows that violent crime has continued to decline this year. Homicides and several other serious offenses, including gun assaults and carjackings, dropped during the first half of 2025 across 42 U.S. cities, continuing a downward trend that began in 2022, according to a new crime trends report released Thursday by the nonpartisan think tank Council on Criminal Justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Homicides fell 17% in the first half of 2025, compared with the same period in 2024, among the 30 cities that reported homicide data, according to the report. During that same period, five cities saw increases in homicide ranging from 6% in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to 39% in Little Rock, Arkansas. While the reports authors say the continued drop in violent crime especially homicides is encouraging, they note that much of the decline stems from a few major cities with historically high rates, such as Baltimore and St. Louis. More than half of the cities studied have higher homicide rates than before the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, though, the analysis found that there were 14% fewer homicides during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The authors say more research is needed before crediting any specific policy or practice for the continued drop in violent crime. The groups findings come as President Donald Trump continues to amplify concerns about crime, at times citing misleading statistics and narratives. In a Truth Social post earlier this week, Trump claimed that cashless bail a practice that allows people charged with a crime to be released pretrial without paying money, unless a judge deems them a threat to public safety were fueling a national crime surge and endangering law enforcement. He wrote: Crime in American Cities started to significantly rise when they went to CASHLESS BAIL. The WORST criminals are flooding our streets and endangering even our great law enforcement officers. It is a complete disaster, and must be ended, IMMEDIATELY! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some research suggests that setting money bail isnt effective in ensuring court appearances or improving public safety. Opponents of ending cash bail often raise concerns that released suspects might commit new, potentially more serious crimes. While that is possible in individual cases, studies show that eliminating cash bail does not lead to a widespread increase in crime. The Truth Social post also marked a sharp shift from Trumps remarks during a June roundtable with the Fraternal Order of Police, where he claimed the national murder rate had plummeted by 28% since he took office a figure that overstates the decline and overlooks the fact that murder rates began falling well before he returned to office. According to data consulting firm AH Datalytics, which manages the Real-Time Crime Index a free tool that collects crime data from more than 400 law enforcement agencies nationwide the number of homicides between January and May 2025 was 20.3% lower than the same period in 2024. Similarly, data released in May by the Major Cities Chiefs Association showed that homicides fell roughly 20% in the first quarter of 2025 compared with the first three months of the prior year. The groups data is based on a survey of 68 major metropolitan police departments nationwide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Researchers at the Council on Criminal Justice note in their report that its difficult to pinpoint a single reason for the drop in homicides, but they note that fewer people appear to be exposed to high-risk situations, such as robberies. Most major crimes fell in the first half of 2025 compared with the same period last year, according to the councils report. Motor vehicle thefts dropped by 25%, while reported gun assaults fell 21%. Robberies, residential and non-residential burglaries, shoplifting, and aggravated and sexual assaults also saw double-digit declines Drug offenses held steady, while domestic violence reports rose slightly by about 3%. Carjackings declined 24% and larcenies were down 5%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Compared with the first half of 2019, before the pandemic and nationwide reckoning over racial justice and policing, overall homicides are down 14%, robberies by 30%, and sexual assaults by 28%. Still, more than 60% of the cities in the councils study sample report homicide rates that remain above 2019 levels. Motor vehicle theft remains the only crime tracked in the report that is still elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels up 25% since 2019 although it has declined sharply since 2023. The council also released another analysis on the lethality of violent crime, showing that while violent incidents have decreased, the share of violence that ends in death has increased significantly. In 1994, there were 2 homicides per 1,000 assaults and about 16 per 1,000 robberies. By 2020, those figures rose to 7.2 and 55.8, respectively. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stateline reporter Amanda Hernandez can be reached at ahernandez@stateline.org. Stateline originally published this article. Like the Alaska Beacon, Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) Violent crime in Washington dropped significantly last year but remains well above pre-pandemic levels. And Washington remains dead last in police staffing per capita compared to other states. These findings come from a report released this week by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs that shows some encouraging signs after years of rising crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Murders statewide dropped nearly 19% from 2023, for a total of 312 people killed, but that figure is still more than 50% higher than 2019. This mirrors national data showing the trend of declining murders continuing in the first quarter of this year in the countrys biggest cities. Robberies are down 16%, creeping closer to 2019 levels. Meanwhile, a yearslong rise in assaults since the pandemic slowed but didnt abate. Theft and property damage reports also decreased. Overall, the states crime rate dropped around 9%, the report found. We have seen significant decreases in crime this past year, which is something to celebrate because that means fewer victims, said Steve Strachan, the associations executive director. Now, our challenge is to keep this momentum going. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Sen. Manka Dhingra, the chair of the Law and Justice Committee and a former prosecutor, attributed the reductions partially to state investments in behavioral health treatment and housing construction. So shes worried federal cuts to social service programs could reverse Washingtons progress on crime. It takes an entire community to address violence, said Dhingra, a Democrat from Redmond. When people cant get access to housing or treatment, thats when you see crime escalating. Two types of crime saw significant jumps in 2024. Drug arrests leaped from 5,022 reported in 2023 to 10,907 last year, driven by a major increase in methamphetamine offenses, according to the associations report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As one of the explanations for the sudden rise in drug-related arrests, Strachan points to legislators drug policy overhaul in 2023 to toughen penalties for possession or public drug use. That law was passed in response to the state Supreme Court declaring Washingtons previous drug possession statute unconstitutional. The legislation also guided increased drug treatment options. The 2023 law was designed around the idea that treatment will always be in the foreground, and that criminal sanctions will always be the last resort, and I think thats what were seeing in agencies all across our state, Strachan said. However, the tool of criminal sanctions are there and are being used when absolutely necessary. Meanwhile, courts have chipped away at case backlogs tied to the pandemic shutdown and local jails have eased restrictions on what level of offenders should be taken into custody. This upswing in drug crimes could also be a cause of the drop in more serious offenses, Strachan said, with criminal punishment potentially serving as an incentive to get treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Domestic violence incidents ticked up about 10%, as well, making up half of all crimes against people. Strachan couldnt see a clear explanation for why domestic violence has increased. The associations nearly 600-page report covers data reported by state, county, municipal and tribal law enforcement agencies across Washington. Washington continued to sit last in the nation in police officers per capita, at 1.38 officers per 1,000 people at the end of October. The state has ranked last for 15 straight years, according to the association. The national average is 2.31. Washington had 11,070 full-time commissioned officers in 2024, up a few hundred from the past couple years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, the state had its highest rate of law enforcement employees per capita since 2020, according to FBI data. Dhingra pointed to new regional police training academies in helping address Washingtons struggle in hiring and retaining officers. In recent years, the state has opened academies in Arlington, Pasco and Vancouver. Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson has made this issue a focal point of his first year in office. He refused to sign a state budget that didnt include $100 million in grants to hire new police officers. State lawmakers delivered on that demand, despite some misgivings, but allowed the money to go toward more than just new cops, including peer counselors, behavioral health co-responders, training and other broader public safety efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its going to be a big step forward. I have no doubt about that, Ferguson said as he signed the legislation in May. Jurisdictions will make their choices, but theres going to be significant investments in new law enforcement officers. To access the grants, cities and counties need to either implement a new 0.1% sales tax for public safety or have already imposed a similar tax. They also need to follow state model policies as well as collect and report use-of-force data. Strachan isnt sure the money will make a significant difference in the states progress to increase police staffing. The average annual cost for one officer is $154,704, according to state data. To tie for 50th in the nation in staffing per capita, Washington would need to hire 1,513 new cops, costing $234 million per year, according to the association. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A lack of clear communication between the Health Department of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Dr Sudhir Medhekar, former dean of Jogeshwari Trauma Care Centre and R N Cooper Hospital, has created confusion over his administrative statuseven after a formal reinstatement order was issued late last week. Dr Medhekar, who was relieved of his duties on July 23 amid allegations of administrative lapses, claims he received no official intimation, written or verbal, about either his removal or subsequent reinstatement. To date, I have not received any written order or even verbal communication regarding my demotion or reinstatement. Whatever I know, Ive only heard through informal sources, he told Mumbai Mirror. Senior civic officials said the decision to strip Dr Medhekar of his administrative and financial powers was taken following a series of complaints concerning irregularities in the functioning of the medical college and hospital. While a probe was ordered, he was reassigned to his original position in the dermatology department. In his absence, Dr Neelam Andrade, director of BMCs medical education department, was tasked with handling administrative responsibilities at Cooper Hospital. However, sources within BMC indicated that the action against Dr Medhekar was under review. According to media reports, BMC officially reinstated him as the academic head of the college, entrusting him once again with oversight of its educational activities. Meanwhile, a senior official, on condition of anonymity, confirmed that no such circular or notice was sent to Dr Medhekar. As far as I know, no verbal or written notice was sent to Dr Medhekar related to his demotion or reinstatement, he said. Moreover, there are no such posts of academic deans. Dr Andrade will retain charge as administrative dean and continue overseeing hospital operations. The controversy underscores ongoing governance challenges within BMC-run hospitals, particularly around transparency, communication, and accountability in senior-level appointments and disciplinary proceedings. The Brief A northern Virginia search and rescue team deployed to Texas to help following disastrous flooding in the state has returned home. FEMA called on the group to assist in the wake of the disaster. The team included firefighters from across Fairfax County and one civilian. FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) called on a group of northern Virginia search and rescue members for help in Texas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, that crew has returned home from their mission to save lives in the hard-hit state. What we know The Virginia Task Force Ones Urban Search and Rescue team is back home after more than two weeks in Texas. The team assisted with search and rescue efforts after the devastating rainfall that killed more than 100 people. The team included firefighters from across Fairfax County and one civilian. Dig deeper The group returned home Monday morning, landing at Dulles International Airport after providing vital assistance to first responders in the wake of the recent deadly flooding in Texas. Theyre back safe and sound with stories theyll always remember. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "One gentleman in particular came out to see us as we were crossing through the backyard of his property and he shared with us a story that his kids and grandkids were in a small cabin on his property right next to the river at 4 a.m. in the morning," Virginia Task Force One Search Team Manager Marc Campet said. "They got chased out by high-water. It was an emotional event for him. It was emotional for us. We spent some time with him a few minutes and then we pressed on to the next task." Campet is a search team manager for Virginias Task Force One. Hes one of four members who returned home safely this morning and is back at Task Force Ones Fairfax County Chantilly headquarters. Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department tells FOX 5, the group spent 17 days deployed for the Texas floods. FOX 5 was told each task force member had a K-9 with them. The group hit the ground running, implementing land searches and boat-based searches with K-9s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tragic and deadly floodings aftermath was already a week in before the team was called out apparently by FEMA to help. "Everybody wants to bring closure for families and, obviously, we're down there as well trying to bring closure to the families. You want to find that needle in the haystack. I think they said it's about 60 miles of shoreline, so you're trying to find two to three people that we're still missing," Search Team Manager Kristi Bartlett said. On July 11, FEMA activated Virginia Task Force 1 to support the response to the Texas floods. What's next Three canines and a search manager all departed at a moments notice. One of the K-9s just received their K-9 certification examination for FEMA on June 5. BRISTOL, Va. (WJHL) Virginia Task Force 4 returned to Bristol after more than a dozen harrowing days in Texas. Task Force 4 was deployed through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) at the beginning of July to provide swift water rescue equipment and resources after sudden flooding hit the region of Kerr County. Team lead Tyler Wright said they were stationed in Kerrville, working with Missouri Task Force One. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They said, hey, would you guys be willing to come help us do some ground searches? and we were like, yeah, absolutely. Our guys are also trained to do that, he said. The first 10 or 11 days, thats what we did, we were just out looking for missing people. The six members deployed to Kerrville returned on July 22. The team has access to mental health resources after the experience. We plan to go and sit down with the stress management folks, just to kind of get some stuff off our chests and make sure that everybodys okay mentally and prepared to come back to work here at the firehouse, Wright said. Wright said the team members families were at the Bristol Life Saving Crew station upon their homecoming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My wife and kids are here when we got back, he said. 17 days. Thats a long time to be away from them. It was good. Pretty much everybodys family was here, and thats who we really wanted to see. Wright applauded his team for all their hard work during their mission. You know, our guys, I cant give our guys enough credit, he said. Theyre phenomenal, what they do, theyre fantastic. But he said their hearts will always be with the victims in Texas. Ive never seen 110 miles of devastation like that, he said. Its pretty earth-shattering. After 14 days, we get to pack up and we come back home, but those people are going to continue to recover from that for several months or years. Were not here to take credit for anything. We want everybody to focus on [Texas] and try to get them recovered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Task Force 4 in Bristol is one of 29 swift water teams in the Commonwealth of Virginia and one of three out of the state to provide aid in Texas. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. It's no secret that tech has quickly become one of Oklahomas leading industries. As CEO of a software-engineering vocational program in Tulsa, Ive witnessed the demand for tech jobs in my community and the challenge we face to meet this labor demand. I started out on the ground floor of a tech startup in Washington, D.C., but returned to Oklahoma to be closer to my family and invest in my home state. We see firsthand how students balancing work, family and education shape the future of the workforce in our state. Ive learned that meeting the labor demand and ensuring a strong, dynamic and forward-looking economy in Oklahoma cant happen without paying special attention to a seemingly obvious but often overlooked fact: Life doesnt pause when school begins it demands more. Investing in Oklahomas future workforce is critical to keeping pace with national innovation and ensuring local talent can thrive in high-growth industries. But preparing people for these opportunities requires more than technical training alone. Ive seen how the lack of support for students needs outside of the classroom can directly impact their academic performance and ability to graduate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Housing, transportation, health care and child care often called "The Big Four" are some of the most common barriers that place a burden on students and can derail their progress. These challenges not only affect our students but mirror the obstacles facing the broader workforce when needs go unmet, it impacts employees performance and can hinder a companys ability to grow. Vocational training is seen by many as essential to growth in Oklahoma's workforce. Institutions are testing new approaches to address these challenges through targeted partnerships and private grants. For example, recent funding from The BlackRock Foundation is helping provide our students with transportation vouchers and housing navigation. Research underscores the importance of these services. Participants in community-based job training programs who receive supportive services are more likely to complete training. More: Tax credit approved by Legislature will bring more engineers to Oklahoma | Opinion Local philanthropic organizations like Campus Tulsa also provide affordable housing to their 200+ interns through a cost-sharing model that eases financial burdens during an internship period. With this support, young professionals are able to build their networks here, in Oklahoma. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Public-sector partnerships can also be leveraged to support the next workforce generation, solving key community challenges. The new Oklahoma Workforce Commission aligns education, training and employment opportunities to meet the evolving needs of industry and has the opportunity to test innovative supports like child care and transportation assistance that expand access to career advancement pathways. Students reach the finish line not just through the guidance of dedicated educators, but through holistic, wrap-around support. This approach doesnt have to be confined to northeast Oklahoma. It offers a blueprint for addressing broader workforce challenges. By adapting and scaling such models, and with committed collaboration across the private, public and philanthropic sectors, we can meet Oklahomas urgent employment needs and strengthen the talent pipeline for the future. Its time to invest in our communitys workforce issues to build a resilient future for our economy. Libby Ediger. Libby Ediger is the CEO of Atlas School, a software engineering vocational institution that delivers hands-on training for in-demand careers in computer science. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Student needs outside classroom essential to vocational ed | Opinion Keir Starmers decision to recognise the state of Palestine unless, that is, Israel agrees to a Gaza ceasefire begs a simple question. Not so much why? for decades, a two-state solution that would see a Palestinian homeland established in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem has been the policy of successive UK governments, and one that was voted for, overwhelmingly, in the Commons 11 years ago. But, rather, how todays announcement, following an emergency meeting of the cabinet, that the British government exasperated by the ongoing situation in Gaza and the dwindling prospects of a two-state solution with Israel will formally recognise Palestine in September, could have been quite so long in the making. Britain has played a pivotal role in the pre-history of the present Israeli-Palestinian conflict, starting with the 1917 Balfour Declaration. The then British foreign secretary Arthur Balfours letter to Lord Rothschild promising support for a national home for the Jewish people set our seal on a future Israeli state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While many Palestinians understandably see the declaration as the root of all their travails, it was intended as a classic diplomatic fudge. It did not actually specify that it would mean a Jewish state in what was then still a division of the Ottoman empire, but which would soon be under British control following General Allenbys victory over the Turks in the First World War. Moreover, Balfour promised that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine which is a quaint way of describing the existing, and then overwhelmingly Arab, population of Palestine. Nor did it say how this protection would be achieved. But none of this alters the fact that, more than a century later, this proviso is the Balfour Declarations great unfinished business. Fast forward to May 1948. The declaration of an independent state of Israel by its first prime minister, David Ben-Gurion, following the hasty abandonment of territory mandated to British control in 1920 by the League of Nations, and coupled with the Israeli armys successful defence against immediate invasion by five neighbouring Arab states, left the new nation in control of 78 per cent of what had once been British-administered Mandatory Palestine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Balfour Declaration along with the United Nations decision to divide the territory into two states, one Arab and one Jewish would prove pivotal in creating a conflict that still scars the Middle East. But it is subsequent events that explain why formal recognition of an independent, sovereign state of Palestine has still not happened. For more than half a century, Western governments Britain included have said that there should be a Palestinian state that encompasses Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem. But in 1967, when the six-day war broke out with its neighbours, Israel seized the former territory from Egypt and the latter two from Jordan. The subsequent UN Resolution 242 called for Israel to withdraw in return for recognition by Arab states but neither the pullback nor the recognition ever came to pass. At that point, Palestinians still hankered after sovereignty over the whole of historic Palestine including what had already been the state of Israel for almost 20 years, and from which more than 700,000 Palestinians had been forced to flee, in a displacement and dispossession known as the Nakba, meaning catastrophe in Arabic. Israel, far from withdrawing from the territorial gains made during conflicts, has established settlements, meaning that at least 620,000 Israelis now live in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Several of the most extreme members of the Netanyahu government are eager to resettle Gaza in the same way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1988, there was a dramatic change of thinking within the then Palestinian leadership its so-called historic compromise. Led by Yasser Arafat, the Palestinian Liberation Organisation would confine its aspiration to sovereignty over the territories occupied in 1967. All negotiations that have taken place since then at Oslo in 1993, at Camp David in 2000, and between Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian Authority president Mahmoud Abbas as part of a secret realignment plan that was never implemented have envisaged, to some degree, a two-state solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side. Shortly after Arafats historic compromise, 78 countries recognised the new Palestinian state. Today, the number declaring formal recognition stands at 147. Earlier this month more than a decade after Sweden became the first EU country to formally acknowledge Palestinian sovereignty, a move followed last year by Ireland, Spain and Norway the French president Emmanuel Macron became the first leader of a G7 country to promise he will seek to do the same at the UN General Assembly in September. As critics of recognition frequently, and correctly, point out, acknowledging a state of Palestine that includes the West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem is essentially notional, since, in the absence of a successful peace process, there is no state to recognise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though the Palestinian Authority was granted observer status at the United Nations in 2012, along similar lines to that afforded to the Vatican, it has no voting rights. Moreover, the United States has consistently used its veto to block Palestines full UN membership. As recently as April, the UK abstained in a Security Council resolution vote on the recommendation regarding the admission of Palestine into the UN. Nevertheless, Frances move which paved the way for todays announcement of a road map of sorts by Keir Starmer, after conversations with Macron and the German chancellor Friedrich Merz is not an empty one. It registered growing outrage at the carnage and the scale of the famine perpetrated by Israel in Gaza in retaliation for brutal attacks by Hamas terrorists on 7 October 2023, which killed 1,200 Israelis and saw the taking of 251 hostages. The French president is said to have been especially affected by his conversations with Palestinian survivors when he visited Egypt in April. Frances joining with Saudi Arabia in sponsoring the UN summit currently underway in New York to revive talks on a two-state solution sends a clear political message to Israels leadership. It is also a reminder that, since 2002, Riyadh has promised to recognise Israel as Egypt and Jordan have already done but only if it agrees to a return to pre-1967 borders. Will Britains belated recognition of a state of Palestine make any difference? It will certainly lend weight and credence to those hoping to change minds in Washington. It would also go some way to acknowledging the UKs historic role and duty in the region. And we can only hope that it might help solve a conflict in which the destruction, killing and starvation in Gaza is but the latest and direst consequence. The tragic images of starvation emerging from Gaza have shocked and angered the world. Yet weve become dangerously desensitized to the daily toll of death and destruction, seemingly powerless to intervene. But when even President Trump is moved to acknowledge real starvation in his press briefings, it signals a potential turning point. Israels response to the barbaric attacks 21 long months ago is increasingly testing the international community. Every state has the right to defend itself but also the responsibility to wield force judiciously. How retribution is carried out, how military power is applied, and how operations affect civilians in the invaded territories all matter deeply. It confirms our values and distinguishes us from those we must fight. The scale of continued suffering in Gaza cannot be justified solely by Israels right to defeat Hamas. This is not to say Hamas should not be confronted but rather Israels absence of a discernible strategy to convert battlefield gains into lasting peace, or to separate Hamas from the broader Palestinian population. Two-thirds of Gaza lies in ruins. Two million people are displaced. And dozens die weekly, not in combat, but for inching forward in chaotic food lines, desperate for handouts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the ground, Hamas forces have been severely weakened. Iran, its proxy backer, has also been constrained. And yet, famine now looms as the deadliest threat. Under international pressure, Israel has permitted food airdrops into Gaza. But, as UN aid chief Tom Fletcher has said, these are a drop in the ocean. Airdrops are inefficient, especially while hundreds of aid trucks wait, fully loaded, at sealed border crossings. Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has kept those crossings closed and removed food distribution from UN agencies, handing it to the Israeli Defence Forces, who lack the infrastructure or experience to manage it effectively. Lets be blunt. Beyond destroying Hamas, Netanyahu offers no credible endgame, no plan for post-conflict governance in Gaza, no roadmap toward the long-promised two-state solution. His actions suggest a strategy of perpetual conflict. Regional powers, including Egypt, Jordan and the UAE, along with much of the international community, are eager to help. Not only to address the humanitarian crisis but to support the establishment of a credible post-Hamas governance structure thats likely to require international supervision. But Netanyahu rejects such support, shielded by continued backing from the White House, which has so far extended understandable but seemingly unconditional support following the Hamas attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Netanyahus tactical decisions, lacking any strategic vision, are beginning to test that support. Where is he taking this conflict a conflict that, in a broader sense, has been ongoing since 1948. His devastating campaign in Gaza and continued illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank suggest an intent to make a two-state solution unviable. In 2014, when the UK Parliament last debated Palestinian recognition, I responded as a foreign minister, saying Britain would recognise Palestine only when it judged such a move would aid the peace process, not as a symbolic gesture. Its a card that can only be played once, so it must be used wisely. Its easy to argue that now is not the right time that we must focus on the immediate crisis. But I would argue that now is exactly the right time, to deliver a jolt that might reverse a dangerous trajectory, one that risks closing the window on a two-state solution forever. This issue is on the agenda at the UN in New York. Recognition could help shift global focus, isolate Hamas politically, and undercut Irans justification for arming proxies in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Waiting endlessly for the perfect moment is not a strategy. The current status quo, or the pursuit of a one-state solution, will only entrench a perpetual insurgency, fuelled externally and leaving Israel in a state of permanent tensions with its neighbours. As Trumps support for Netanyahu grows more conditional - including calls for decisive action to prevent famine lets leverage this to refocus attention on the broader strategic imperative: achieving a two-state solution. Without that, suffering, extremism, and endless war will continue. Tobias Ellwood is a former foreign minister Vice President JD Vance addressing workers at the Metallus steel mill near Canton, OH. (Photo by Nick Evans, Ohio Capital Journal.) CANTON Near Canton, Ohio on Monday, more than 300 men and women packed into the Metallus steel mill to see Vice President JD Vance. A sea of brightly colored hard hats cheered and applauded as the vice president touted the administrations biggest legislative achievement, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Across the street, a few dozen protesters hoisted signs accusing Vance of protecting pedophiles an allusion to the one problem the administration cant seem to shake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked about the long-promised release of files related to sex-offender Jeffrey Epstein, Vance insisted were not shielding anything, and that reviewing information takes time. After first releasing a nothing-to-see-here memo in July, the Department of Justice is again reviewing the case at Trumps order. In the intervening weeks, the Wall Street Journal has reported Trump sent Epstein a lewd birthday card, and that Attorney General Pam Bondi informed the president in May that hes named in the files. Protesters lining the street outside a Canton-area steel mill ahead of a visit from Vice President JD Vance. (Photo by Nick Evans, Ohio Capital Journal.) Vance, like Trump, attempted to shift attention to previous administrations, calling out presidents Biden, Obama, and George W. Bush. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They decided to go easy on the guy, Vance claimed, saying that Trump should be commended for pursuing the case. Despite a 2008 plea deal with federal prosecutors in Miami, the Epstein case wasnt widely known until The Miami Herald published its investigation in 2018, during the first Trump administration. Donald J. Trump, Im telling you, hes got nothing to hide, Vance insisted. His administration has got nothing to hide, and thats why hes been an advocate for full transparency. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Big and beautiful But Vance wasnt in Ohio to talk about Epstein. He was here to sell. His message to the Metallus steel workers was simple: Trumps tariffs are protecting jobs like yours, and with the presidents signature on the One Big Beautiful Bill, workers like you are going to be taking home more of your paycheck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were going to see take-home pay go up in the United States of America, Vance claimed. In this district, probably $7,000, $8,000 per family over the next three or four years. Without Trump in office, Vance claimed their tax bills wouldve gone up to the tune of thousands of dollars for each and every single one of you. That spread mostly comes down to the tax cuts Trump passed during his first term. They were set to expire at the end of this year and making them permanent was one of the Trump administrations biggest priorities. The bill also increases the standard deduction and the child tax credit, but Vance emphasized the inclusion of tax breaks for tips and overtime. Those breaks come in the form of limited tax deductions that are set to expire after 2028. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Raise your hand if youve worked an overtime shift in the past year, Vance told the crowd. Nearly every hand in the audience went up. The federal government is not going to take a dime of that overtime pay, he claimed, because if youre spending hard hours away from your family, the federal government ought to keep its hands the hell out of your pocket when youre doing it. Under the reform, workers can subtract earnings from tips and overtime from their taxable income, but not all workers will be eligible for the deduction and there are limits on how much can be deducted depending on income and filing status. Eyes on 2026 Ohio Democratic U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes speaks during a news conference on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol in 2024. (Photo by Kent Nishimura/Getty Images) The Metallus plant sits just outside Democratic U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes district, and Vance used the visit as an opportunity to call her out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes not celebrating no taxes on tips. Shes not celebrating no taxes on overtime. Shes not celebrating the highest rise in take home pay in 60 years, because shes fought us every step in the way, Vance said. Vances critique was all about the 2026 midterms. Those elections are usually hard on the presidents party, and Republicans currently hold a very narrow majority in the U.S. House. Later this year, Ohio state lawmakers will redraw the states U.S. Congressional district map, and Republicans seem eager to stack the deck against Sykes and Toledo-area Democratic U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur. Vance added, the door is always open, for Sykes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Next time, we would love to have you celebrating the next great legislative accomplishment for northeastern Ohio, he said, But youve got to vote for it next time, he went on, and well work with you every step of the way if youre willing to make that happen. Sykes wasnt amused. Hes not telling the truth, she said in an interview. Sykes explained that the White House invited several members of Congress to discuss the proposal. I was not on that list, she said. Neither were any of my colleagues on the Democratic side of the aisle. Skyes added that she proposed several amendments to the bill in multiple committees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of those were voted down (on) party lines, she noted. The reconciliation process, inherently, is a partisan process, Sykes argued. The reason that they do it is to bypass the filibuster in the Senate, which is to encourage partisanship. And so, if they wanted bipartisan activity, they would have just gone through the typical legislative process. And Sykes criticized Vances assurances about overtime. He came to this community, he lied directly to these peoples faces, Sykes claimed, particularly to the steel workers, who are not going to be eligible for the no tax on overtime, because they are union members, and union members are not eligible for it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats not exactly right either, but Sykes has a point. The bills use of the Fair Labor Standards Act definition of overtime applies a higher threshold for many union workers. In response, more than 20 unions including United Steel Workers, who represent employees at the Metallus mill are urging Congress to pass a fix. Steel mill workers greeting Vice President JD Vance. (Photo by Nick Evans, Ohio Capital Journal.) Health care changes Paying for all the tax breaks Vance touted isnt cheap. To cover the cost, the One Big Beautiful Bill makes deep cuts to safety net services like health care and food assistance. The Congressional Budget Office projects changes to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act marketplace could lead to 10.9 million Americans losing their insurance. Add in the likely expiration of Affordable Care Act premium assistance, and the figure rises to 16 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Kaiser Family Foundation analysis suggests 440,000 of them would be Ohioans. Whats more, the Congressional Budget Office forecasts suggest that the measure will add $3.4 trillion to the deficit triggering mandatory cuts of about half a trillion dollars to Medicare unless lawmakers intervene. But Vance defended the administrations health care policies, and rejected the expert conclusions that millions will lose access. I dont believe thats going to happen for a second, Vance asserted. He pointed to new funding for rural hospitals and framed new coverage requirements as a way to protect underlying the program. Able-bodied people looking for work? Single moms taking their kid to a doctor? Theyll be fine, Vance insisted. Whos not going to have access to that Medicaid is people who are in the United States illegally and people who refuse to even look for a job, he claimed. Undocumented immigrants are already not eligible for Medicaid. The new rural hospital funding came along to get the votes of Republican members of Congress who were worried about uncompensated care. Hospitals have to treat everyone, and in rural regions many of their patients have Medicaid. If those patients lose coverage, hospitals lose revenue. The initial $25 billion fund propping up rural hospitals got doubled in the U.S. Senate to earn moderate members support. Whether that price tag will be enough the keep hospitals whole, is anyones guess. In Ohio, some rural hospitals are raising concerns about their ability to maintain their maternity wards. Despite Vances claims that new Medicaid restrictions will ensure only the needy get access, theres reason to believe otherwise-eligible people will lose their coverage. Arkansas imposed similar work requirements and saw 18,000 people lose insurance, but not because they werent working. Many people were simply unaware of the reporting requirements or had trouble with the paperwork. Sykes was particularly concerned about how the measure will impact health care in her district. She argued the overwhelming majority of people on Medicaid are already employed and that those who arent often have good reason. Medicaid covers treatment for people in recovery from substance abuse, seniors in long term care, and kids, she noted. Should the children be working? Sykes asked. Obviously not. They are acting as though these changes that are going to come out of Medicaid are going to weed out all the fraud, waste, and abuse, but its really just going to get your grandmother kicked out of her nursing home, Sykes added. Its going to make it harder for you to access the breathing treatments for your child who has asthma. Metallus workers recording Vice President JD Vances remarks. (Photo by Nick Evans, Ohio Capital Journal.) Short sighted Before Vance took the stage, Metallus CEO Mike Williams praised what he called the Trump administrations bold, pro-growth policies. The renewal and strengthening of the 232 steel tariffs have been critical, he said of a 25% tariff applied to steel and aluminum imports. They protect American jobs, they defend our national security and ensure that American steel remains a global force. Willams called the Big Beautiful Bill a game changer, and highlighted a provision allowing companies to immediately deduct the full cost of capital investments on their taxes. And he argued those policies are helping them making new investments, including building a new furnace and inking a $99 million deal with the Department of Defense to produce components for 155 mm artillery shells. But Ohioan Louis Maholic argued embracing Trumps trade policies is shortsighted. Maholic is retired now, but he used to work as a coal miner and then for the UFCW and AFSCME unions. I havent seen any real benefits to it for the blue-collar workers in Ohio, Maholic said of Trumps tariffs. If anything, I think that its made things more unstable. Its made companies more leery about what their future plans are going to be. Maholic dismissed Vances visit as an attempt to distract from the Epstein controversy and take some cheap shots at one of the Democrats Republicans are hoping to unseat in the midterms. Maholic noted that while the bill cuts taxes immediately, it delays many of the biggest health care cuts to 2028. I think if the Republicans were truly, truly proud of this bill, he said, they wouldnt have some of the most draconian cuts in it occurring until after the midterm elections next year. Follow Ohio Capital Journal Reporter Nick Evans on X or on Bluesky. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, R-N.Y., is warning New Yorkers to remain alert to their surroundings after a deadly mass shooting in the heart of Manhattan on Monday. The lone Republican representing New York City in the House of Representatives cautioned that little is still known about what led to the incident, which she said appeared to be "isolated." But she said it was another example of the dangers in today's world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It didn't seem like it was a random attack. It seemed he had a motive to go to that particular building. But everyone has to stay vigilant. I mean, we know in a post-9/11 world we always need to remain vigilant, keep our eyes open and report things that feel suspicious," Malliotakis said. Nyc Gunman Had Grievances Against Nfl, Football As Shooting Leaves Several Dead: Report A New York police investigator exits her vehicle at the scene outside a Manhattan office building where two people were shot including a police officer, Monday, July 28, 2025, in New York. She said it was a "concerning" situation, noting the man was captured on camera armed with an assault rifle walking into the Park Avenue building, where he soon opened fire. Read On The Fox News App "My heart breaks for the wife and the children of this police officer, and all the families that lost loved ones yesterday. Because people, you know, leave their house, they go to work, they go about their usual routine and they don't come home," Malliotakis said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And that's obviously shocking, and it's heartbreaking, but it's also a reminder of how fragile life is and how we need to remain vigilant as a community and a country. Anything can happen at any time." Malliotakis urged fellow officials not to politicize the situation, and said she anticipated lawmakers would be briefed by the mayor's office and the New York Police Department (NYPD). Rep. Nicole Malliotakis said New Yorkers need to be vigilant. She said when asked what information she was hoping to get, "I think obviously this person was probably not on the city's radar because he was coming from Nevada. The question was, was he on the radar of Nevada law enforcement or the federal government, because of a history of criminal activity or mental illness?" "What was his motive, [did he have] a history that could have raised a red flag?" she asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A gunman, identified by police as 27-year-old Shane Tamura, is believed to have traveled from the western part of the U.S. to New York City, where he opened fire and killed three people inside a corporate office building in Midtown Manhattan before turning the gun on himself. Police said Tamura had a Las Vegas address and is believed to have had a "documented mental health history," according to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Nyc Shooting: What To Know About Shane Tamura, Gunman Who Killed 4 Including Nypd Cop In Midtown Manhattan Mayor Eric Adams told Fox 5 New York that it appeared Tamura was targeting the NFL, whose headquarters is located inside the building, along with other organizations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple people were left dead, including a police officer and Tamura himself, and several others were injured. Adams said the man's suicide note alluded to him struggling with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and blaming the NFL, though he never played for the professional league. "We're still going through the suicide note to zero in on the exact reason," Adams said. Original article source: In the wake of Manhattan mass shooting, NYC lawmaker urges New Yorkers to remain 'vigilant' KANSAS CITY, Mo. If you see a long line of police vehicles, motorcycles and patriotic riders Tuesday afternoon, theres a powerful reason behind it. A large procession is escorting The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., to its next stop in Buckner, Missouri. Download WDAF+ for Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV The wall is scheduled to be on display from Wednesday, July 31, through Saturday, Aug. 3, at Heisler-Burns Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The replica is making a grand entrance to the metro. The escort starts at 2 p.m. Tuesday in Grain Valley and will make its way north through Oak Grove and eventually into Buckner. The route includes Highway AA, Route 24 and other heavy traffic areas. Officials are urging drivers to expect delays and give the motorcade plenty of space. A full map of the escort route is available here. Once it arrives, the exhibit will open to the public 24 hours a day starting Wednesday at midnight. It will remain open through 3 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free. See the latest headlines in Kansas City and across Kansas, Missouri Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The names of over 58,000 Americans who died in the Vietnam War are displayed on the 375-foot-long replica wall. Additionally, a mobile education center helps visitors understand the sacrifice and history behind the names by sharing artifacts, photographs and personal stories. Buckner is the only stop in Missouri in the walls 2025 national tour. Organizers are encouraging veterans, families and anyone interested in American history to experience the exhibit and its message of healing, honor and remembrance. Click here for more details about the schedule of ceremonies and how to volunteer. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (WOOD) The mother of one of the 11 people stabbed at a Traverse City-area Walmart said she grieves for not only the victims, but for the man who stabbed her son and the others. She was in the store when it happened Saturday. She said her son told her that the suspect, identified as Bradford Gille, 42, looked more scared than the people he had hurt. Its not a matter of forgiving, said the woman, who spoke to News 8 on the condition that she and her son would not be identified. I grieve for him (Gille). In my spirit, I hurt for what this man went through that came out of him in this manner. Hes hurt. I cant even imagine what he must be feeling inside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walmart stabbing suspect had history of digging up bodies Gille, who has a long history of mental illness, is charged with 11 counts of assault with intent to murder and a count of terrorism. Hes being held in the Grand Traverse County Jail. Bradford James Gille appears remotely in front of Chief Magistrate Tammi Rodgers, Monday, July 28, 2025, in Traverse City, Mich., on terrorism and assault with intent to murder charges in connection with stabbing attacks on Saturday at Walmart. (Jan-Michael Stump/Traverse City Record-Eagle via AP) This photo provided by the Grand Traverse County Sheriffs Office on Sunday, July 27, 2025, shows the knife that authorities say was used to stab 11 people at a Walmart on Saturday, July 26, in Traverse City, Mich. (Grand Traverse County Sheriffs Office via AP) The mother said her son, who was stabbed with what police described as a 3.5-inch cutting blade, underwent surgery for internal injuries and is still being treated at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. My son is doing well. Hes going to be OK, and Im grateful to God. Thats it, the mother said. I know that God watched over both of us. His hand was certainly on all of the victims. I know it and Ive never been so sure of anything in my life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victims ranged in age from 29 to 84. Munson Medical Center on Tuesday reported that six of the patients are in fair condition, one is in good condition, two have been transferred to other facilities and two have been treated and released. How hospital staff activated as stabbing spree unfolded very quickly The mother told News 8 that she and her son had gone to Walmart together Saturday. I was in another part of the store, she said. I heard when the ruckus started. I had no idea what was going on. All of a sudden, there was this guy running at me saying, Get out of the store, get out, theres a guy with a knife, get out. But then, I said, I cant get out, Im looking for my son.' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She called her sons cellphone several times before a Walmart employee answered. There was no panic, she said. I just wanted to know he was OK. That Walmart employee, she said, was giving her son aid on the store floor, holding gauze to his wound. Man who helped stop Walmart stabber: Like there was a demon in him She said her son, when he first saw the suspect, thought he might be a victim. Asked why the suspect stabbed her son, she said: He was just in the way, he was trying to get out of the front door. (My son) looked up and he saw this guy heading toward him, and he didnt see a knife, and from what he has told me was the guy with the knife looked more scared than the people he had hurt. And (my son) just stood there, Is there any way I can help him?' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said her son didnt realize at first that hed been stabbed. The mom has since learned some of the suspects history of mental illness, which dates back to 1998, when Gille was a teenager. In 2018, Gille was ordered to a year at a psychiatric hospital after he was found not guilty by reason of insanity to digging up graves in a Petoskey cemetery. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia and psychoactive substance abuse. Most recently, he was homeless. The attacker was arrested after being subdued by bystanders, including a former Marine from Kent County and an off-duty Munson Healthcare employee who was armed with a gun and was also described as a former Marine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gille has pleaded not guilty and asked for a court-appointed attorney. Hes expected back in court Aug. 6. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. (KRON) The Walnut Creek Police Department is asking for public assistance in identifying three suspects. According to authorities, the suspects are allegedly pickpocket thieves. Photo: Walnut Creek PD Baby Winters mother took selfies with drugs in background: court documents Anyone with information regarding the suspects identities is asked to contact Walnut Creek PD at 925-935-6400 or email Det. Matt Smith at MSmith@walnutcreekpd.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. swapnil.mishra@timesofindia.com The Maharashtra Medical Councils (MMC) Know Your Doctor QR code initiative, designed to verify doctors credentials and curb quackery, has met with significant backlash from medical associations across the state. Dr Deepak Baid, former president of the Association of Medical Consultants (AMC), on Monday raised serious concerns about the initiatives implementation, citing flaws in its execution and the absence of a functioning MMC committee to oversee it. The QR code system, introduced by the MMC and the Homeopathic Council, aims to allow patients to authenticate registered doctors by scanning a code linked to an online database. However, Dr Baid, in a letter to the state government, highlighted that the initiative lacks proper deliberation due to the absence of an elected MMC committee. With only an administrator running the show, there is no platform for debate or discussion, leading to poorly planned reforms, he stated. Dr Baid questioned why the government is pushing such initiatives without a fully constituted council in place. Adding to the concerns, the authentication website hosting the QR code system operates on a domain with hidden ownership details, raising fears of third-party involvement. This lack of transparency risks exposing doctors sensitive data to private entities, Dr Baid noted, emphasising the need for clear ownership information to protect privacy and maintain trust. Medical associations have echoed this sentiment, demanding greater accountability from the MMC. Another point of contention is the initiatives selective focus on doctors. Critics argue that if the goal is to ensure professional accountability, QR code authentication should extend to all professionals and commercial establishments, not just the medical fraternity. Singling out doctors is unfair and fails to address quackery holistically, Dr Baid remarked, calling for a more equitable approach. The letter also critiques the governments broader efforts to combat quackery. Existing mandates, such as requiring doctors to display their degrees in clinics, have proven ineffective due to weak enforcement. Dr Baid pointed out that the government currently lacks a robust mechanism to trace and penalise unqualified practitioners. The QR code is not a comprehensive solution. The government must collaborate with doctors bodies to devise viable strategies, he urged. Mumbai Mirror recently reported how the MMC was able to find quack doctors through KYD. The absence of an elected MMC committee remains a central issue. Dr Baid called for the immediate constitution of a representative council to ensure transparent decision-making and effective supervision of such initiatives. A functioning MMC with elected representatives is essential to address these concerns and restore credibility, he said. However, MMC administrator Dr Vinki Rughwani said, This initiative is a necessary step in the fight against quackery. In the absence of a fully elected body, we cannot delay reforms that directly impact patient safety. The QR code system brings transparency, empowers patients, and promotes ethical practice. We are open to dialogue, but waiting endlessly for elections is not an option when public health is at stake. As the controversy unfolds, medical associations are pressing the government to suspend the QR code initiative until these issues are resolved. They have also urged officials to engage in constructive dialogue with stakeholders to develop practical solutions to tackle quackery while safeguarding doctors interests. Meanwhile, it becomes difficult for patients or citizens to find the doctor on the Know Your Doctor website as most of them do not know the procedure for searching doctors, and if they do, the doctors name is not visible. I visited the website to search for doctors, but I couldnt find it by name and city, and I dont know the registration number of the doctor, so it does not help us to check its authenticity, said Rajesh Gupta, a plumber. Dr Santosh Kadam, Maharashtra president, Indian Medical Association, emphasised that it is a bad move taken by the MMC as there is no foolproof evidence that the KYD initiative has helped in finding bogus doctors. For the last two-and-a-half years, the MMC is dissolved, and only one person is taking all decisions and imposing them on everyone, which is not right. Moreover, they are a toothless body as no power is given to them to handle medical negligence cases, and the hearing of such cases is still pending. We do not welcome this initiative until MMC elections are done and it is foolproof, he said. Jul. 28A wanted man at the center of an hourslong standoff over the weekend in Warren County is now facing additional charges. The standoff on Saturday afternoon led to an emergency alert for the Landen area of Deerfield Twp. that inadvertently was sent to all Warren County residents and others from surrounding counties due to a technical malfunction, Sheriff Barry Riley said. Denzelle Lamar Pouncy, 33, of Cincinnati, pleaded not guilty during his Monday arraignment in Mason Municipal Court for two counts of abduction and single counts of burglary, kidnapping, disrupting public service, inducing panic and a misdemeanor assault charge, court records show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pouncy was wanted for the alleged strangulation and assault of his girlfriend on Friday evening, according to the Warren County Sheriff's Office. The Ohio Adult Parole Authority told the sheriff's office that Pouncy's ankle monitor had been tampered with and that it indicated he was at a house in the 3700 block of Spring Mill Way in Deerfield Twp. Law enforcement officers responded around noon with the arrest warrant, and the Warren County Tactical Response unit was requested to assist with the apprehension. Deerfield Fire and Rescue, Mason Fire and Rescue, Deerfield Twp. police and Monroe police were among agencies that also responded to the scene, according to news partner WCPO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After several hours of Pouncy reportedly refusing to cooperate, the sheriff's office said the tactical team breached the front door and took Pouncy into custody. Three others were inside the house, but no one was injured during the breach, the sheriff said. Pouncy is accused of entering the house without permission, taking a cellphone and hanging up during a 911 call and preventing those inside including a person with autism who is nonverbal from leaving during the standoff, affidavits filed in the case said. Pouncy is being held on a $500,000 bond in the Warren County Jail. He is due in court Thursday for a preliminary hearing to determine whether there is enough evidence for the case to proceed to a Warren County Common Pleas Court grand jury. Pouncy is on parole following a 13-year prison term for a voluntary manslaughter and aggravated robbery conviction in Hamilton County, according to online records of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction. Melissa Bour, director of the Warren County Department of Emergency Services, said they are working diligently to investigate the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System malfunction. As aid groups and others warned in recent days that Palestinians in Gaza face widespread starvation, Israeli officials determined to downplay the crisis have fought back by focusing on labels. As one Israeli spokesperson put it last week: "There is no famine in Gaza. There is a famine of the truth." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stirred global fury further Monday when he declared, There is no starvation in Gaza, no policy of starvation in Gaza. Such commentary is enraging humanitarian workers. Yes, they say, international monitors have not yet classified the situation as a famine, though they appear close to declaring that complex technical definition has been met. They also acknowledge that Israel may not be deliberately trying to starve every Palestinian in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But right now, the words are irrelevant. Huge numbers of Palestinians need something to eat. Can Israel do more to get them some food? Its as if anything that doesnt qualify as famine isnt a problem, one humanitarian organization official told me. A second aid official said the Israelis in particular talk about such hunger crises as if its a binary on, off rather than a sliding scale. Its a sliding scale. Words are among the many tools being weaponized by multiple sides in several ongoing global conflicts. Famine, genocide, terrorism, antisemitism, occupation and apartheid are just some of the terms whose definitions inspire public relations, legal and policy fights. The war of words is increasingly exhausting and alarming to policymakers and others who deal with humanitarian issues. Several told me they worry the semantics especially in a conflict such as Gaza could hurt efforts to save lives or forge peace, including by hardening the positions of people accused of wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another potential consequence: If certain terms are used too much, they lose their power. "The more they're used, the more advocates for a particular cause demand that they be used to describe the injustice that they are opposed to, and the use of the word becomes a litmus test of whether you care about that problem," said Tom Malinowski, a former Democratic House member who served as assistant secretary of State for human rights during the Obama administration. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has seen an unusual number of battles over many of the words I mentioned above since Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, and sparking an Israeli retaliation that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians. That has had consequences for policymaking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under President Joe Biden, when the U.N. and partner agencies appeared close to declaring a famine had taken hold in Gaza, the U.S. officials who wanted to push Israel to limit its attacks and let in more humanitarian aid would get the edge in the debate, two former U.S. officials familiar with the conversations told me. The new pressure on Israel would work, and more food would reach Palestinians. But it meant there was no famine declaration. That then gave the upper hand in the debate to more hawkish U.S. officials, who used the absence of the famine label to argue for going easier on the Israelis. The cycle would then repeat itself, the former officials said. I granted anonymity to many of the people I spoke to so they could be candid about sensitive deliberations and because, in some cases, they need to keep good relations with various governments involved in conflicts. The use of the word genocide in the Gaza conflict has been especially fraught. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Almost since the start of the war, pro-Palestinian activists have accused Israel of committing genocide against the people in Gaza. In the many months since, even some genocide scholars have come to the same conclusion. This week, two Israeli human rights groups made the same allegation. Genocide is a legal concept defined by international agreements and, in some countries, national laws. It is generally considered the gravest offense humans can commit against other humans. The intent of an accused perpetrator is a critical factor taken into consideration when jurists try to determine if a genocide took place, and traditionally, the bar has been high for groups to be labeled as victims of genocide. In recent years, however, many groups who have suffered atrocities have laid claim to that word. They include the victims of the Islamic State, the Uyghurs in China, and the Rohingya of Myanmar. Some Ukrainians have alleged Russia is pursuing genocide against them, while Russia counters that Kyiv has engaged in genocide against Russian speakers in eastern Ukraine. Activists who push to use the term genocide often seem to suggest that if any label short of that is used, it means that a groups suffering doesnt matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is unfortunate, Malinowski and others say, because other legal terms that could apply, such as war crimes or crimes against humanity, are still very grave offenses whose perpetrators should be held accountable. A governments decision to accuse another country of genocide often comes down to politics. Israel has far broader, deeper support in Washington than countries such as Myanmar or China. It also bears the history of the genocide of the Holocaust, one reason Israeli leaders are infuriated at growing claims that they are waging genocide against the Palestinians. Israeli leaders argue that Hamas desire to wipe out Israel is itself an attempt at genocide of the Jewish people. Israel also says it is not deliberately attacking the Palestinian people as a whole. But that becomes harder to argue when civilians are dying both from hunger and what critics say is excessive use of force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden administration officials never seriously grappled in any formal sense with the question of whether Israel was committing genocide. Several told me, however, that the public debate over that word was counterproductive to their efforts to stop the war in Gaza. Not only were the Israelis deeply offended by such allegations, but Hamas, too, was already latching onto far-lesser U.S. criticism of Israel as a reason to harden its position in ceasefire talks. Many people who worked for the Biden administration grew deeply skeptical of activists who loosely used the term genocide, especially in the early days of the war. You have a large chunk of the American Jewish community who does not like what is happening in Gaza and wants it to end, but the second you call it genocide, they get their backs up, because they rightfully believe that comparisons to the Holocaust are unfair, said Ilan Goldenberg, a former Biden official now with J Street, the left-leaning pro-Israel group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like many others I spoke to, Goldenberg agreed that perpetrators of atrocities must face justice. Still, he argued that accountability needs to be a long-term process. The short-term process needs to be ending the horror. The latest horror in Gaza revolves around the severe shortage of food caused in part by Israeli restrictions on aid into the territory. After days of growing international outrage, Israel has begun easing some of those limits. Yet, its not clear how long it will take for the situation to stabilize, or whether Israel might change its mind. In insisting that there is no famine, Israel has been technically correct. Theres been no formal declaration of famine in Gaza, although the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification the leading international body that makes such a determination released a statement Tuesday that suggested the conditions for a famine were being met and a declaration could come soon. Ive been surprised by how careful humanitarian officials recently have been about not deploying the word famine, using terms such as mass starvation instead. Still, starvation can be a charged word if the accusation is that its imposed deliberately. Using starvation as a method of war is prohibited by international law, and perhaps thats why Netanyahu is waving away that term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overall, Israeli officials dismissal of the labels strikes many humanitarian leaders as an attempt to confuse the ordinary public who may not understand what it means to have a famine or how starvation is measured. Famine is a technical term; one of the many data points that can lead to its declaration involves measuring the size and weight of children. Many aid leaders say its important to warn in advance of the potential of famine because by the time it is declared, the crisis is so grave that irreparable physical damage has been done to a population. Others worry that aid groups use of the word in recent years has had a downside because when famine is averted, people come to believe that the warnings were overblown. We dont have a great vocabulary for characterizing things that are kind of one step short of that really awful situation, the second aid official told me. The hard thing for our community is you do want to be able to warn when a bad thing is about to happen. One of the former U.S. officials, looking back at the Biden administrations approach, said the debate over famine was surreal and a distraction. The reality was people were hungry and needed food now, the former U.S. official said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And thats the ultimate point, the people I interviewed stressed. Determining exactly what phase of a crisis youre at or whether international law is being violated is important, but if youre at the stage where thats what youre arguing about, maybe you should focus more on solutions to the urgent crisis right in front of you. U.S. Sen. Rev. Raphael Warnock, of Georgia, advanced the ROAD to Housing Act on Tuesday, marking a significant step in addressing the nations housing crisis. The bipartisan legislation aims to increase housing supply, improve access to affordable housing, and enhance the efficiency of federal housing programs, according to the senators office. Warnocks office said the ROAD to Housing Act is the most transformative housing legislation to advance in the U.S. Senate in nearly 20 years. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The bill was unanimously approved by the Senate Banking Committee with a vote of 24-0 and will now proceed to the full Senate floor for approval or rejection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I hear from Georgians across the state who have been clamoring for action from Washington on the affordable housing crisis, Warnock said in a statement. This legislation is proof that when we center the people instead of the politics, we can get good policy done. TRENDING STORIES: The senators office said the legislation includes several key provisions aimed at addressing various aspects of the housing crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Warnocks Appraisal Modernization Act, included in the package, seeks to empower homeowners with more data and tools to combat appraisal bias. It will do so, in part, by requiring the federal Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report on the feasibility of creating a public appraisal database and the Banking Committee to hold a hearing on the final report. According to Warnocks office, the bill also introduces the Local Government Housing Innovation Fund, which would authorize $1 billion over five years to support local governments in increasing housing supply, if the legislation is passed in both chambers of U.S. Congress and signed into law. Incentives for zoning reform are also part of the legislation, rewarding communities that pursue pro-housing policies. This includes provisions to remove what Warnocks office called the Not-In-My-Backyard phenomena that it said is often cited for creating the current housing crisis Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill addresses rural housing needs through updates to the Department of Agricultures Rural Housing Service, preserving properties for low-income residents, the lawmakers staff said. Veterans will benefit from the VA Home Loan Awareness Act, ensuring they are informed about their home loan benefits. The Whole Home Repairs Act allocates $30 million for grants and loans to help homeowners repair and weatherize their properties. The legislation also aims to modernize federal guidelines to support affordable housing construction and streamline housing construction processes. If approved by the full Senate, and unchanged by the U.S. House of Representatives, the bills provisions could provide a new, comprehensive approach to increasing housing supply and affordability in the United States. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) To paraphrase Alexander Pope: the error was human. Three days after preliminarily concluding that the emergency alert that puzzled much of southwest Ohio was the result of a technical error, the Warren County Emergency Management Agency now says it was human-caused. In a detailed update sent out Tuesday, the EMA said that the polygonal geographic shape that was supposed to limit the recipients to just the Landen area of Deerfield Township hadnt been properly completed, leading to the message going out to the entire county and parts of adjacent ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement Tuesday, the EMA promises to provide more training on using the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System, including proper geofencing and how to write more effective alerts. The county is also reviewing its IPAWS policy. Why was the alert message so short and vague? According to Tuesdays statement from the EMA, the alert UI features two text boxes: one with a character limit of 90, and one of 360. Under the assumption that anyone who could receive the 360-character message would get the text from both boxes, it put the short Secure doors and windows into the larger text box, and added the detailed message Due to law enforcement activity in the area, they are requesting everyone shelter in place into the smaller one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, the boxes are actually split, with the 90-character text going to cellphones using 3G or older networks, and the text in the 360-character box going to those on 4G or newer. According to the Warren County Sheriffs Department Twitter account, an emergency alert meant to let residents in the Landen area of Deerfield Township was mistakenly also sent to adjacent areas, including Montgomery County, shortly before noon Saturday. The sheriffs social media said that only people in the area of the Woodfield development in Deerfield Township should shelter in place. Deputies were attempting to serve an arrest warrant on Denzelle Pouncy, 32, at a home on Spring Mill Way in Deerfield Township. Despite the deputies reaching out to him, Pouncy allegedly refused to surrender and exit the home, leading to a multi-hour standoff with the countys tactical response team that ended later Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. Attorney General Nick Brown announced Tuesday that Washington has joined 23 other states and the District of Columbia in filing a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging a new law that blocks Medicaid funding for services provided by Planned Parenthood health centers. Filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, the lawsuit targets a provision in the federal budget law signed by President Trump on July 4. Known as the Defund Provision, it prohibits federal Medicaid payments to certain organizations most notably Planned Parenthood that meet a set of narrowly tailored criteria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics say the law was designed specifically to exclude Planned Parenthood and punish it for advocating for abortion access. Brown and other state attorneys general argue that the provision violates the U.S. Constitutions First Amendment, the Equal Protection Clause, the Spending Clause, and the ban on bills of attainder. The lawsuit seeks an injunction to prevent the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services from implementing the law. In Washington, where nearly half of Planned Parenthood patients rely on Medicaid to access care, the impact could be severe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state estimates the law would strip $11.8 million in Medicaid reimbursements from Planned Parenthood health centers in Washington alone, affecting 30 clinics and thousands of patients who depend on them for birth control, cancer screenings, STI testing, and other preventive health services. The broad attempt to cut Washingtonians access to Planned Parenthood means more unscreened cancers, more untreated sexually transmitted diseases, and more unintended pregnancies, said Brown. The Trump Administrations punitive actions will have real ramifications for Washingtonians. While Governor Bob Ferguson has pledged to use state funding to offset the loss of federal money, Brown emphasized that doing so diverts limited state resources. My office will do everything it can to stop this unlawful stripping of Medicaid funding, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Planned Parenthood separately filed its own lawsuit challenging the same provision. Last week, a federal judge granted a preliminary injunction in that case, halting enforcement of the Medicaid funding ban and ruling that the law likely violates constitutional protections. The provision was part of a sweeping budget and tax bill passed by Congress under pressure from the White House. Proponents claim the measure is intended to prevent public funds from indirectly supporting abortion providers. However, under longstanding federal law including the Hyde Amendment Medicaid funds are already barred from covering abortion services except in limited cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The coalition of states argues the new provision is not about abortion funding but a politically motivated effort to dismantle access to reproductive and preventive healthcare. Despite arguments by some lawmakers that other community health centers could absorb Planned Parenthood patients, multiple research studies cited by the states indicate that alternative providers lack the capacity to meet the resulting demand. Joining Washington in the lawsuit are California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) More than 50 years after the Lewis Army Museum in Washington state was established, the space is facing an uncertain future amid plans to shutter or consolidate more than two dozen Army museums around the world. The U.S. Center for Military History announced plans to close or consolidate 29 of its 41 active-duty museums, as reported by Stars and Stripes, noting, the Army has plans to instead direct resources towards readiness and lethality. The announcement prompted Washington Senator Patty Murray (D) to send a letter to Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll on July 21, questioning the potential closure of the only certified military museum on the West Coast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Portland car thefts down, but thieves have new tool Educating our communities on the Armys history is key to instilling national pride amongst servicemembers and the general public, Murray wrote. The senator noted that sentiment has also been voiced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. In fact, Secretary Hegseth has been very vocal about preserving our militarys history for the sake of improving morale. In the dedication of his book, Modern Warriors, Hegseth said the legacy of our warriors is worth of elevation a reflection of what we should really value,' Murray wrote. Here is how much you need to make to buy a home in Portland Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By closing the Lewis Army Museum, you are doing the exact opposite by not honoring the incredible sacrifice and service the men and women who have been stationed at JBLM have provided, Murray continued. You have said that telling that story [of the Army] will directly lead to a recruiting boom, and there seems to be no better way to continue to tell that story than to continue to keep these important museums open to the public. According to Murray, Joint Base Lewis McChord which is home to the Lewis Army Museum was never consulted on the Armys plan to potentially close its museum. She added, According to the U.S. Army Center of Military Housing, the decision was made as a cost-cutting measure so the Army can direct more resources toward readiness and lethality and will save $114 million over 10 years. Yet this decision comes at a time when President Trump is requesting a historically high defense budget of $1.01 trillion for fiscal year 2026, a 13.4 percent increase compared to fiscal year 2025. If this decision was made for cost-saving measures, JBLM was never consulted or given the opportunity for input. Colonel Kent Park, the outgoing garrison commander, said he heard of the closure through the media, and the closure was never discussed with him. Close Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Eye on Northwest Politics Murray then questioned Driscoll about the annual operating cost of the Lewis Army Museum, and why the museum was chosen for potential closure while others are staying open. The senator is also questioning plans for the museums artifacts and how the military is planning on using funds for lethality in the Army. Murray asked for responses by August 11. On Monday, U.S. Army Spokesperson Christopher Surridge told KOIN 6 News that the plan to close and consolidate military museums is pending. Named after Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark expedition the Lewis Army Museum was established in 1973 to honor JBLM soldiers and educate the public about the value of service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smash your stress away at new Rage Room inside North Portland brewpub The museum displays decorated artillery shells made in the trenches in World War I, along with pocket guides for servicemembers before they were deployed to Vietnam, military vehicles, vintage uniforms, weapons, art and other memorabilia donated by local veterans in the Puget Sound area. JBLM was established in 1917 to train the 91st Wild West Division before deploying soldiers to Germany in World War I. Murray noted JBLM was home to veterans such as Audie Leon Murphy, a highly decorated American soldier in World War II, and General John Shalikashvili, who became the 13th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The State Department said on Tuesday that the United States repatriated a U.S. citizen minor from a displaced persons camp in northeast Syria for unification with the child's family. "Approximately 30,000 individuals from more than 70 countries remain in two displaced persons camps in northeast Syria, the majority of whom are children under the age of 12; they deserve a chance at life outside the camps," the State Department said in a statement. Washington said the only durable solution to the crisis in the displaced persons camps in northeast Syria was for countries of origin to repatriate them. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh and Bhargav Acharya; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) WAUSAU Krysten Klapatauskas knew it would be difficult when the German Shepherd she had for more than 10 years would die. What the 49-year-old Wausau resident didn't know was the story of her postal carrier's kindness when he delivered her dog's remains would go viral on social media, getting seen as far away as Cape Town, South Africa, Spain and Portugal. Klapatauskas' German Shepherd, Stoli, had been slowing down for several months, she said. The 90-pound German Shepherd was full of energy and liked to raid the kitchen cabinets when she was gone. Klapatauskas knew it would be difficult to lose Stoli and was dreading the day it would happen. Krysten Klapatauskas and Stoli in a photo taken shortly before the German Shepherd's death. Then, on July 4, Stoli began having trouble breathing. Klapatauskas drove her 10-1/2-year-old German Shepherd two hours to an emergency veterinarian in Appleton. Klapatauskas learned Stoli had a tumor that had ruptured and caused severe internal bleeding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Klapatauskas had to make the difficult decision to have Stoli put down. She knew there was no way she'd be able to drive the two-hour roundtrip to pick up Stoli's ashes from the veterinary clinic, likely crying all the way, so she decided to have Stoli's remains mailed to her. More: Former Taycheedah inmate gets life without parole for death of Cindy Schulz-Juedes Klapatauskas had a package tracking number. She said when she checked it on the day Stoli's remains were to be delivered, it showed "undeliverable." When she saw Malachi Knox, her mail carrier, delivering the mail, she asked him if he had a package for her. He told her he did and went to his mail truck to get it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Knox went to get the box, Klapatauskas sat down on her front porch steps to wait. As Knox brought the box to the steps, Klapatauskas began sobbing. Instead of just handing Klapatauskas the box and leaving, Knox sat down on the steps next to her and began talking to her about Stoli. The two talked for a while and shared a hug. Stoli was Krysten Klapatauskas' beloved German Shepherd. Knox stayed with Klapatauskas a couple of minutes, until her mother showed up, Klapatauskas said. "The kindness and compassion Malachi (Knox) showed me meant everything," Klapatauskas said. Knox's doorbell camera caught the exchange. She decided to watch it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I didn't realize how heart-wrenching my sobs were until I watched it back," Klapatauskas said. Klapatauskas was grateful for Knox's actions and decided to post the video to her TikTok account. That is when things got a little crazy. The video was picked up by many media outlets, including USA Today, Klapatauskas said. As of July 29, the video had been viewed 3.1 million times on Klapatauskas' account and between 15 and 20 million times on all the sites combined. More: Ginny's Cupboard in Sparta: A perfect stop after cycling the Elroy-Sparta State Trail Klapatauskas said she's received messages from all over the United States and all over the world. She said she's had to translate many of the messages from other languages so she can read them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm floored," Klapatauskas said. "It restored my faith in humanity and in the world." Klapataukas and Knox's story was on Inside Edition July 28, she said. At least a dozen people have contacted Klapatauskas and offered her German Shepherds that need to be rehomed. She said she will get another dog eventually, but she isn't ready yet. In the meantime, she says she's got her two rescue dogs and three cats. Contact Karen Madden at kmadden@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter at @KMadden715, Instagram at @kmadden715 or Facebook at facebook.com/karen.madden.33. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (The story was updated because an earlier version contained an inaccuracy.) This article originally appeared on Wausau Daily Herald: Wausau woman's loss of dog and mailman's kindness goes viral PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Riders and community organizers sounded the alarm on proposed cuts to public transportation in Rhode Island during a press conference on Monday. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) is trying to address the remaining $10 million of a $17.6 million deficit for the next fiscal year with service reductions across the state. The proposed changes will affect routes 1, 3, 4, 6, 9x, 12x, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 50, 51, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59x, 60, 61x, 63, 64, 65x, 66, 68, 69, 71, 72, 73, 75, 76, 78, 80, 87, 88, 89, 92, 95x, 203, 231, 281, 301 and the R-Line, according to RIPTA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: RIPTA mulls service reductions to close $10M budget gap The American Federation of Labor and Congress Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) is a federation of 63 national and international labor unions. Patrick Crowley, the president of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO, spoke at the press conference, slamming the proposed cuts. This service cut is a form of a tax increase on working class Rhode Islanders, Crowley said. By asking us to shoulder the burden through job cuts, by asking us to shoulder the burden by reduced services. RIPTA is holding 12 public hearings on the proposed changes at various locations between July 28 and Aug. 6. The first hearing was at CCRIs Warwick campus on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many people in attendance shared stories of taking the bus to work and expressed their fears over the potential cuts. Most people rely on the bus out of necessity, and RIPTA has an obligation to provide transportation to the people who need it. Please find a way to do this, one woman said at the hearing. If an emergency fund or a rainy day fund needs to be accessed, well, its an emergency and a downpour. RIPTA CEO Chris Durand was on hand, listening to peoples concerns. He acknowledged that the service impacts would be major change and noted that RIPTA is also considering a fare increase. Obviously, listening to the feedback from the public, this is difficult and will have pretty substantial impacts on people, Durand said. Wed love to not have to do that, but I dont know what that alternative is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Durand said he had not been in touch with Gov. Dan McKee since the service cuts were announced. McKees spokesperson Olivia DaRocha explained in a statement that his team has been in regular communication with RIPTA throughout this process. The governor was briefed on both the results of the efficiency study and the suggested route changes, DaRocha said. NEXT: Veteran doesnt let traumatic injury slow him down Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Health officials from Wayne County and the state are investigating cases of Legionnaires' disease among residents of Allegria Village, a continuing care retirement community in Dearborn. Two cases from June and July are being investigated. Those individuals have died, and their causes of death are under investigation, Dr. Avani Sheth, chief medical officer and division director of clinical care services for the county's Department of Health, Human and Veterans Services, indicated in a July 26 statement. An additional case from August 2024 was also identified and is being assessed as part of the investigation, according to the statement. The 2024 case was not fatal, health department spokesperson Kimberly Harry indicated on July 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No details about the individuals, including their names, ages or genders, were provided in the statement, which indicated the county was recently notified of cases of Legionella pneumonia (Legionnaires' disease) among Allegria Village residents. The investigation is ongoing and in its early stages, according to the statement, "to ensure a safe and healthy living environment for residents and staff." The county is working with Allegria Village and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to investigate and respond. Susan Tompor: Taxes on Social Security benefits were not eliminated despite what you've heard The state health department indicated in its statement that it is providing "epidemiology and industrial hygiene support, such as what information and specimens to collect, where water system testing should be done, review of documents such as water management plans, all in accordance with our established response protocols." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lexi Cousino, director of operations at Allegria Village, indicated in an email to the Free Press on July 28: "The Village is committed to the health, safety, and well-being of our residents and staff. As part of our routine preventative maintenance program, we regularly test and treat for Legionella in accordance with industry standards and best practices. At this time, no cases have been confirmed to have originated at our property. We have been informed that the local health department is investigating several cases of Legionella in the area, and we are fully cooperating with their efforts. The Village continues to take every precaution to maintain a safe and healthy environment for all who live and work here. We understand concerns may arise during this process and will continue to provide transparent communication to our residents as more information becomes available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Again, we emphasize that there is currently no confirmation that the cases originated at The V(i)llage." Allegria Village provides 55+ living, independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care, according to its website. It is the former Henry Ford Village. Legionnaires' disease is a type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms include cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches and shortness of breath, as well as confusion, diarrhea or nausea, and they usually develop two to 14 days after exposure to the bacteria. Legionnaire's disease is treatable with antibiotics. People age 50 and older; those with certain health conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, weakened immune systems and chronic lung disease, and current or former smokers are at an increased risk of becoming sick, according to the CDC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legionella bacteria occur naturally in fresh water, such as lakes and streams. It poses a health risk when it gets into building water systems and grows, according to the CDC. It indicated that people can get the disease by breathing in mist containing Legionella bacteria. In general, the agency indicated, it isn't spread person to person. Susan Tompor: Scammers play into confusion over tariffs, immigration, drug trafficking Staff writer Natalie Davies contributed to this report. Contact Christina Hall: chall@freepress.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @challreporter. Support local journalism. Subscribe to the Free Press. Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Health officials investigating cases of Legionnaires' disease in Dearborn MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) After storms this past weekend brought heavy rain and flooding to north central West Virginia, the Mon River Trail Conservancy is telling hikers to be aware of damage on parts of the Mon River Rail Trail and Deckers Creek Rail Trail in Monongalia County. A Facebook post by the conservancy shows a significant washout and fallen tree by mile 12.8, between Morgantown and the Snack Shack, on the Deckers Creek Trail. 12 News spoke with Mon River Trail Conservancy Executive Director Ella Belling, who told the public to be on the lookout for other damage. Because I cant see the entire 48 miles of trail at one time and really know the damage right now, its really helpful to have trail users contact me, Belling said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FEMA and SBA disaster recovery centers open in Fairmont To help the cleanup efforts, if hikers see damage on the Mon River Trail or Deckers, theyre encouraged to send photos and a description of the location to Bellings phone number at 304-692-6782. At that point, the conservancy, local government employees or contractorsin the case of major damagecan work to fix up the trail. Belling also told 12 News that she feels the conservancy has had to expend more effort than usual on trail cleanup this year. I feel like this year has been harder on us, starting with spring, which was a very wet spring. Normally, well have storms, but what happened this year has been intense rainfall, Belling said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) Wegmans stores in Western New York are experiencing a shortage in produce items following a fatal shooting at a Rochester-area distribution center over the weekend. A message on Wegmans website reads: Due to circumstances at our warehouse, produce availability will be limited until midweek. We apologize for the inconvenience. Photo: Danylo Paszkowsky/WIVB Distribution center worker JMere Ridley-Smith, 25, was shot and killed at the distribution center in Gates on Saturday. The suspected shooter, 32-year-old Kyshonn Green, was arrested in Tennessee on Sunday night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to its Buffalo-area stores, Wegmans has locations in Rochester, Syracuse, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, six other states, and Washington, D.C. Latest Local News Aidan Joly joined the News 4 staff in 2022. He is a graduate of Canisius College. You can see more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. President Donald Trumps push to shore up the GOPs House majority through gerrymandering ahead of the 2026 elections has sparked a cycle of escalation and potential retaliation across multiple states that could upend next years midterms. It is also producing a long-overdue reconsideration among Democrats of gerrymandering itself, after years of unilaterally disarming on the issue. Trump began the frenzy this summer when he successfully persuaded the state of Texas to hold a special session to redraw its congressional maps ahead of the 2026 midterms. While states are required to redraw their legislative maps after each census every 10 years, there is no legal barrier to redrawing them more frequently. Trump hopes to gain as many as five additional GOP-favored seats from the Lone Star State. California Governor Gavin Newsom was the first prominent Democrat to call for retaliatory moves to offset the gerrymander. (As I noted last week, there are still a few hurdles that could make it harder for the nations most populous state to act quickly enough to redraw its seats before next falls election.) That move broke with decades of Democrats professed opposition to gerrymandering, which led them to pass redistricting reforms in many Democratic-led states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, whose state faces fewer impediments to gerrymandering than most others, hosted a group of Texas Democratic lawmakers last week in what some took as a signal that Illinois would retaliate if Republicans go forward with their plans. New York Governor Kathy Hochul also took her first steps toward support for retaliatory redistricting in public remarks last week. Alls fair in love and war, she told an audience in Buffalo, according to Politico. Were following the rules. We do redistricting every 10 years. But if theres other states violating the rules and are trying to give themselves an advantage, all Ill say is, Im going to look at it closely with [House Minority Leader] Hakeem Jeffries. Jeffries, who represents a New York district, is reportedly holding discussions with House Democrats and various state governors. Even some Republican-led states beyond Texas are now considering further steps. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said last week that his states legislature could take a second look at its congressional maps, claiming that Florida got a raw deal from the reapportionment of seats after the 2020 census. Missouris state lawmakers are also reportedly receiving direct pressure from Trump to eliminate the states fifth congressional district, a Democratic stronghold in the eastern half of Kansas City that last elected a Republican in 1946. In the Texas saga, the White House has tried to come up with a pretext to justify the unusual maneuver. Earlier this month, Trump appointees at the Justice Department formally urged the state of Texas to redraw its congressional districts, citing a recent ruling by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals that narrowed who could bring racial gerrymandering claims under the Voting Rights Act of 1965. DOJ identified four districts in particular that it thought should be redrawn; all four were won by Democrats in the most recent House election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legal conservatives have increasingly treated remedies to racial gerrymandering as indistinguishable from racial gerrymandering itself, so it is unsurprising that the department made this recommendation to Texas. The Supreme Court announced in June that it would rehear a racial gerrymandering case in the upcoming term that begins in October, likely for that same reason. Rehearing the case will give the justices an opportunity to squarely decide whether a key provision in the Voting Rights Act can be used by federal courts to remedy racial gerrymandering claims. But there is an inescapable whiff of opportunism and desperation on the administrations part as well. Despite Trumps victory in 2024, the GOP majority in the House actually narrowed by two seats. Republicans hold the chamber by a threadbare margin of 219 seats to the Democrats 212. (Four seats are vacant.) The incumbent presidents party also traditionally loses seats in the midterms: Democrats, for example, flipped 41 seats and captured the House in 2018. To blunt that effect, Trump reportedly pressured Texass congressional delegation and the states GOP leaders over the last few weeks to support a mid-decade redistricting push to reduce the number of Democratic seats in the state. The states voters sent 25 Republicans and 13 Democrats to Congress in its House delegation in 2024. Texas Governor Greg Abbott eventually agreed to call a special session to redraw the maps. In some ways, the GOP is constrained by its own success here. The partys aggressiveness with gerrymandering after the 2010 midterms already wiped out most of the potential Democratic seats in the Midwest and South. A Pew Research Center analysis in 2024 found that fewer than one in 10 House seats would actually be competitive in that years election. For most Americans, the primaries actually decide who will represent them in Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because Republican-led states tend to be less populous, there are few options for gerrymandering-driven gains at this point. The GOP holds a majority of seats in 30 of the states House delegations. Twelve of those states, including four with a single congressional district, did not elect a single Democratic representative to the House last year. Only Texas and four other statesFlorida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Ohioalso have four or more Democratic seats in their House delegation. Why do those five states still have Democratic seats at all? While gerrymandering can easily be used to keep one party in power, it is a lot harder to wield it to exclude the other party from power altogether. One reason that Texas Republicans were reluctant to squeeze more GOP seats out of their congressional map is that each additional seat raises the likelihood that it will backfire altogether. Gerrymandering typically works by packing and cracking one partys voters into different districts. Congressional districts are constitutionally required to be as equal in population as possible to one another. In a 10-district state where the electorate is 60 percent Republican and 40 percent Democratic, for example, lawmakers might try to pack as many of the Democrats into one or two districts as possible. Any Democrats that cant fit in them would be distributed among the other districts so they cant form a majority anywhere else. A 6040 split in overall votes then becomes an 82 split in representation. This approach works pretty well if the map drawers can ensure that the Republican majorities in the other four districts wont be diluted by the inclusion of more Democratic voters. Texass population growth and political geography makes that a formidable challenge. If the Texas legislature shifts too many Democratic voters into GOP-favored districts, then it could find far more seats imperiled by a backlash election than if it focused on keeping the margins that it already had. Political scientists refer to this phenomenon, quite fittingly, as a dummymander. Democrats cannot simply hope that the Republicans will gerrymander themselves out of power, of course. As Ive noted before, the GOP already effectively gerrymandered itself into power at the national level over the past decade, and Republican-led states now face far fewer legal constraints than Democratic-led ones when redrawing their legislative maps, thanks to blue-state reforms over the years. It is understandable that Democrats are reluctant to abandon their stated opposition to gerrymandering after decades of hoping to find a state-by-state solution to the problem. Trumps ham-fisted efforts to eliminate any electoral opposition to himself next year should overcome whatever remaining hesitation they might have. JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Well-known Palestinian activist Owdeh Hathaleen, a consultant for the Oscar-winning documentary "No Other Land," was shot and killed in the occupied West Bank by an Israeli settler on Monday, five people who said they witnessed the shooting told Reuters. The Israeli army said in a statement on Tuesday that "terrorists hurled rocks toward Israeli civilians near Carmel," an Israeli settlement near the village of Umm al-Khair. The military said that an armed civilian then fired towards those throwing rocks, adding that the army was aware of reports of unspecified injuries to individuals and had transferred the incident to the police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police said it had launched an investigation that was in its "early stages" and that an Israeli individual had been detained. "Additionally, four Palestinians were arrested by IDF soldiers for their involvement in the incident, as well as two foreign tourists who were present at the site," the police said in a statement. "As a result of the incident, the death of a Palestinian was confirmed," said the statement. Palestinian state media reported that Hathaleen was the man killed. Alaa Hathaleen, Owdeh's cousin, filmed the incident on his phone. He said his cousin "was far away and not doing anything" when he was shot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Why does it always have to be us on the losing side, to feel this sort of pain daily, to lose people we love?" Alaa Hathaleen said in an interview with Reuters. The video shows a confrontation between a group of men screaming in Arabic and a man holding a gun. The gun-holder then fires into the air and towards the crowd. Screams are heard and people can be seen running away. Reuters was able to confirm the location of the video by the buildings, tower structure in the background, and road and village layout, which matched file and satellite imagery of the area. The date could not be verified. Owdeh Hathaleen aided the producer of the 2024 film "No Other Land," which documented the life of Palestinians in the West Bank and included settler attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement B'Tselem and other rights groups say settler violence in the West Bank has risen since the start of Israel's war against Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza in late 2023. Dozens of Israelis have also been killed in street attacks by Palestinians in recent years, and the Israeli military has intensified raids across the West Bank. Around 700,000 Israeli settlers live among 2.7 million Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, territories Israel captured from Jordan in the 1967 war, which Palestinians see as part of a future state. (Reporting by Yosri Aljamal and Emily Rose, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) L.A. County took a first step Tuesday toward barring immigration officers from concealing their identities with neck gaiters and masks, though its far from clear theyll be able to enforce the local ban on federal agents. County supervisors voted 4-0 to ask attorneys to draft a rule that would bar all law enforcement officers including local sheriff deputies and federal immigration agents from disguising their identity while working in unincorporated parts of the county. Its a scene thats played out again and again since widespread immigration raids began in June: armed federal agents their faces hidden by gaiters, balaclavas or ski masks have hopped out of an unmarked van and apprehended people from street corners, car washes, and Home Depot parking lots. Officers often refuse to identify themselves as working with federal immigration enforcement, according to videos captured of these raids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Being forcibly detained by a federal officer in the middle of the day is scary enough, said Supervisor Janice Hahn, who spearheaded the motion. Having it done by someone wearing a face mask or balaclava whose name and badge are completely covered up is even more disturbing. Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said that agents with the department's Immigration and Customs Enforcement or Enforcement and Removal Operations need to disguise themselves to avoid having their identity publicized. These sanctuary politicians are trying to outlaw officers wearing masks to protect themselves from being doxed and targeted, McLaughlin said in a statement. These LA Country Supervisors have clearly never been on an ICE operation because they would see our officers verbally identify themselves, wear vests that say ICE/ERO or Homeland Security, and are flanked by vehicles that also say the name of the department. The supervisors were unconvinced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unreasonable search and seizure is what I would call it, Supervisor Hilda Solis, who co-authored the motion with Hahn, told her colleagues. I know it is a violation of our constitutional and civil rights. The potential impact of the motion remains unclear. The law, which county attorneys have two months to draft, would only apply to law enforcement operating in unincorporated areas, where the supervisors have sole government authority. Sheriff deputies are already required to clearly identify themselves in most cases. Over the last two months, Sheriff Robert Luna has stressed that his deputies should be easily identifiable across the county with their patch, six-point star badge and name plate. Hahn said the mask ban under consideration should exempt face coverings that deputies need as part of the job: gas masks, medical masks or undercover disguises, for example. The sheriff department did not respond to a request for comment on the motion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Assn. for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs, which represents sheriff deputies, say they were working with Hahns team to "find a good fit for this mask ordinance" and ensure officers can still wear masks when necessary. Its ironic that the same Board of Supervisors who so impulsively mandated Deputy Sheriffs to wear masks during COVID have now swung 180 degrees, said Thomas Ferguson, the vice president for the deputy union, in a statement. I think we all know that efforts by the county and even the state on this issue will have ZERO impact on the federal government and are done largely for show. Federal immigration agents are under no requirement to follow a county mask ban, according to Kevin Johnson, a UC Davis School of Law professor who specialized in immigration law. The County cannot lawfully require ICE officers under the jurisdiction of the federal government not to wear masks Johnson wrote in an email. I believe that federal supremacy principles require the federal government to have the authority to restrict its officers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This comes as no surprise to the countys top lawyer, Dawyn Harrison, who told her bosses the federal government will likely argue that the county law violates the constitution, which states that federal law takes precedence over conflicting local law. It would most likely be challenged on the supremacy clause," Harrison told the supervisors. Hahn said she saw no problem with going to battle with the federal government. "If we have to see you in court, we'll see you in court," she said. Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who abstained from the vote, questioned the point of a motion that would almost certainly land them in front of a judge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My concern is we're bringing in a motion that is probably going to end up in court that I question is even legal for us to do, said Barger, adding she worried this could give frightened residents a false sense of security. Barger said she supported the spirit of the motion and remained concerned that it was too easy for people to impersonate immigration agents when the real ones often failed to identify themselves. The Huntington Park Police Department arrested a man in late June who they believed was posing as a federal immigration agent. There have probably been countless people who have been victimized because they can't go to law enforcement because they are afraid to go to law enforcement," said Barger. The motion is one of several pushes by local legislators to try and exert some influence on federal agents. State Sen. Sasha Renee Perez (D-Alhambra) introduced a bill that would require all law enforcement, unless undercover, to wear a name tag or badge number. Another bill, introduced by state Sens. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) and Jesse Arreguin (D-Berkeley) also seeks to ban law enforcement from wearing face coverings . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some California Democrats in Congress also are backing a bill that would bar federal officials from covering their faces while conducting raids. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) The West Nile Virus is back in Siouxland, infecting three in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, killing one. West Nile Virus is an illness that affects the nervous system, leading to symptoms like fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. The virus typically appears in late summer and early fall as mosquitoes that carry the virus hatch near or in standing water and heavily wooded areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Story continues below According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States. Although there are no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat the West Nile virus in people, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputy Director of the Siouxland District Health Department, Tyler Brock, said wearing insect repellent is the first thing you should do to protect yourself. Insect repellent with DEET, thats the best way to do it, said Brock. Brock also recommended people wear long-sleeve shirts and pants, avoid going out during dawn and dusk hours, and remove any standing water near your home. Click here to be redirected to the CDC website for more information on the West Nile Virus. For more information on the West Nile Virus, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. The Brief A 14-year-old boy is in critical condition after a teen opened fire late Sunday in Lawndale; three othersages 13, 15, and 16were also injured. Local leaders and groups, including Greater Rock Church and Mothers Opposed to Violence, are calling for more resources, accountability, and youth job opportunities. Chicago police are still searching for the suspect; Area Four detectives are leading the case. CHICAGO - Another night of violence unfolded in Chicago, this time on the West Side, where four teenagers were shot while standing outside late Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, community leaders are demanding answers and action. What we know The shooting occurred just before 11:30 p.m. in the 700 block of South Springfield Avenue in the Lawndale neighborhood. Police said a teenage boy who was upset after losing a fight returned to the area and opened fire. Among the victims was a 14-year-old boy who remains in critical condition. A 13-year-old boy and two girls, ages 15 and 16, were also wounded. All four teens were taken to area hospitals. Just two blocks from the scene is Greater Rock Church, which joined forces with Rev. Robin Hood and the advocacy group Mothers Opposed to Violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Together, they are calling for more resources, greater accountability and a renewed sense of urgency to stem the tide of gun violence. What they're saying Community leaders on the West Side say youth employment is a critical solution to curbing violence. "This community has been left out by the city and by the state. I can't speak much for the county, but I know that there was an opportunity where this mayor that's trying hard to engage youth and get jobs for, but this community still got left out," said Reverend Hood. What's next Chicago police are continuing to search for the shooter. Area Four detectives are handling the investigation. RELATED:Four teens wounded in Chicago shooting: police UPDATE // The West Springfield Police say that they have identified the suspect. The original story is below. WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) The West Springfield Police Department is seeking the publics help in identifying a suspect connected with two shoplifting incidents. Six women charged in Mass. break-in allegedly members of multi-state crime group Police are currently searching for a man who allegedly shoplifted from a business on Riverdale Street on two separate occasions on July 16. The suspect was captured on surveillance footage. (West Springfield Police Department) (West Springfield Police Department) If you recognize the suspect or have any information related to this incident, you are urged to contact Detective Couture at 413-263-3210 ext. 283. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. WASHINGTON (AP) The Senate confirmed former Trump lawyer Emil Bove 50-49 for a lifetime appointment as a federal appeals court judge Tuesday as Republicans dismissed whistleblower complaints about his conduct at the Justice Department. A former federal prosecutor in the Southern District of New York, Bove was on Trumps legal team during his New York hush money trial and defended Trump in the two federal criminal cases. He will serve on the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which hears cases from Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Democrats have vehemently opposed Boves nomination, citing his current position as a top Justice Department official and his role in the dismissal of the corruption case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. They have also criticized his efforts to investigate department officials who were involved in the prosecutions of hundreds of Trump supporters who were involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bove has accused FBI officials of insubordination for refusing to hand over the names of agents who investigated the attack and ordered the firing of a group of prosecutors involved in those Jan. 6 criminal cases. Whistleblowers cite evidence against Bove Democrats have also cited evidence from whistleblowers, a fired department lawyer who said last month that Bove had suggested the Trump administration may need to ignore judicial commands a claim that Bove denies and new evidence from a whistleblower who did not go public. That whistleblower recently provided an audio recording of Bove that runs contrary to some of his testimony at his confirmation hearing last month, according to two people familiar with the recording. The audio is from a private video conference call at the Department of Justice in February in which Bove, a top official at the department, discussed his handling of the dismissed case against Adams, according to transcribed quotes from the audio reviewed by The Associated Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The people spoke on the condition of anonymity because the whistleblower has not made the recording public. The whistleblowers claims were first reported by the Washington Post. None of that evidence has so far been enough to sway Senate Republicans all but two of them voted to confirm Bove as GOP senators have deferred to Trump on virtually all of his picks. Democrats say Bove's confirmation is a 'dark day' Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said that Bove's confirmation is a dark day and that Republicans are only supporting Bove because of his loyalty to the president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's unfathomable that just over four years after the insurrection at the Capitol, when rioters smashed windows, ransacked offices, desecrated this chamber, Senate Republicans are willingly putting someone on the bench who shielded these rioters from facing justice, who said their prosecution was a grave national injustice, Schumer said. Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska voted against Bove's confirmation. I dont think that somebody who has counseled other attorneys that you should ignore the law, you should reject the law, I dont think that that individual should be placed in a lifetime seat on the bench, Murkowski said Tuesday. At his confirmation hearing last month, Bove addressed criticism of his tenure head-on, telling lawmakers he understands some of his decisions have generated controversy. But Bove said he has been inaccurately portrayed as Trumps henchman and enforcer at the department. In a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee released Tuesday evening just before the vote, Bove said he does not have the whistleblowers recording but is undeterred by this smear campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A February call emerges as evidence Senators at the Judiciary Committee hearing asked Bove about the February 14 call with lawyers in the Justice Departments Public Integrity Section, which had received significant public attention because of his unusual directive that the attorneys had an hour to decide among themselves who would agree to file on the departments behalf the motion to dismiss the case against Adams. The call was convened amid significant upheaval in the department as prosecutors in New York whod handled the matter, as well as some in Washington, resigned rather than agree to dispense with the case. According to the transcript of the February call, Bove remarked near the outset that interim Manhattan U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon resigned about ten minutes before we were going to put her on leave pending an investigation. But when asked at the hearing whether he had opened the meeting by emphasizing that Sassoon and another prosecutor had refused to follow orders and that Sassoon was going to be reassigned before she resigned, Bove answered with a simple, No. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, Bove defended his testimony as accurate, noting that the transcript of the call shows he didnt use the word reassigned when talking to the prosecutors. At another moment, Bove said he did not recall saying words that the transcript of the call reflects him as having said that whoever signed the motion to dismiss the Adams case would emerge as leaders of the section. But in the letter to Grassley, Bove said he did not intend to suggest that anyone would be rewarded for submitting the memo but rather that doing so would reflect a willingness to follow the chain of command, something he said was the bare minimum required of mid-level management of a government agency. Republicans decry unfair accusations Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grassley said Tuesday that he believes Bove will be a diligent, capable and fair jurist. He said his staff had tried to investigate the claims but that lawyers for the whistleblowers would not give them all of the materials they had asked for until Tuesday, hours before the vote. The vicious rhetoric, unfair accusations and abuse directed at Mr. Bove have crossed the line, Grassley said. The first whistleblower complaint against Bove came from a former Justice Department lawyer who was fired in April after conceding in court that Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran man who had been living in Maryland, was mistakenly deported to an El Salvador prison. That lawyer, Erez Reuveni, described efforts by top Justice Department officials in the weeks before his firing to stonewall and mislead judges to carry out deportations championed by the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reuveni described a Justice Department meeting in March concerning Trumps plans to invoke the Alien Enemies Act over what the president claimed was an invasion by the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. Reuveni said Bove raised the possibility that a court might block the deportations before they could happen. Reuveni claims Bove used a profanity in saying the department would need to consider telling the courts what to do and ignore any such order, Reuvenis lawyers said in the filing. Bove said he has no recollection of saying anything of that kind. ___ Associated Press writer Joey Cappelletti contributed to this report. Wholeys Market in Pittsburghs Strip District is hosting Taste of Wholeys, a free community event offering a flavorful journey through its departments. The event invites shoppers to sample a variety of foods, showcasing the quality and freshness that Wholeys is known for. Participants will receive a Taste of Wholeys Passport to be stamped at each tasting station, culminating in a special gift for those who complete the tour. Taste of Wholeys is more than just a tasting eventits an opportunity for our customers to experience the quality, freshness, and variety that has made Wholeys a Pittsburgh tradition for over a century, said Muriel Maze, Marketing Director at Wholeys. The event is scheduled for Aug. 9 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW Air traffic control is probably something you don't spend much time thinking aboutbut when you board an airplane, you really want it to work. Unfortunately, the American air traffic control system is kind of a mess right now. It relies on outdated technology and is beset by staffing shortages. Fixing those problems is essential, but politics keeps getting in the way. And even though flying is still the safest way to travel, the air traffic control system is now under more scrutiny after 67 people were killed in a midair collision near Washington, D.C., earlier this year. The full investigation of that incident is still ongoing, but the Trump administration wasted little time in promising to improve air traffic control. Earlier this year, President Donald Trump promised to "modernize this decrepit relic and give America the best, most advanced air traffic control system on Earth." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dorothy Robyn, a senior fellow at the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation* and a former White House staffer, says the administration must do more than simply throw money at the problems. She tells Reason that air traffic control needs a complete overhaul, and that the system should be spun off from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which has run air traffic control since the 1930s. "Air traffic control is a 24/7 operation," says Robyn. She says trying to run what amounts to a business out of a "regulatory agency" is a "fundamental clash." The federal government runs air traffic control because that was the easiest way to do things in the early days of flying. Today, the entire system remains federally managedeven as commercial aviation has become far more complex. Because the federal government runs (and funds) air traffic control, the people running the system effectively have Congress as their sole customer. That creates more problems than it solves. For example, look at what happened when lawmakers proposed opening a second academy to train new air traffic controllersa sensible reform, given the ongoing shortage. The congressional delegation from Oklahoma, home to the country's sole air traffic controller training center, killed that bill last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robyn says air traffic control should operate more like a utility company. It should be funded by the people that use itthat is, airlines and operators of private jetsrather than by congressional appropriation. Then it could be regulated at arms' length by the FAA, the way every other aspect of the aviation industry is. We don't ask the FAA to build commercial jets or run airports, so why should it be in charge of air traffic control? Such a big change is understandably a somewhat scary proposition, but about 90 countries have already enacted similar reforms. That includes Canada, where the air traffic control system handles more planes with fewer people because it has been properly funded and upgraded by the people who use it. Pilots prefer that system too. Meanwhile, American efforts at improving air traffic control have been underwhelming. A Bush administration initiative that began in 2007 aimed to triple air traffic capacity by 2025. Last year, the Department of Transportation reported that the effort had been "less transformational than originally promised." As well-intentioned as the Trump administration's modernization efforts might be, air traffic control is simply too important to leave up to the politicians. The FAA should free air traffic control so Americans can trust that every flight will get where it needs to goand safely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement *CORRECTION: The original version of this piece misidentified Robyn's affiliation. Camera: Cody Huff Camera: Cesar Baez Video Editor and Audio Production: James Swanepoel The post Why Does the Government Run Air Traffic Control? appeared first on Reason.com. Photo illustration by Getty Images. Montanans are well aware of the asbestos disaster caused by the vermiculite mine in Libby that turned the town into a Superfund site. Libbys tremolite asbestos lurked in the shadows for decades until determined citizens brought the hidden killer to light. But too late for more than 400 people who died and many more left sickened with asbestosis, dying slowly and painfully from asbestos fibers lodged in their lungs. A similar disaster was narrowly avoided when actinolite, a mineral that belongs to the amphibole family became a topic of concern about the proposed Skalkaho vermiculite mine near Hamilton in 1999. The question of asbestos was not addressed by officials until the mine was almost permitted. Only after the Bitterroot National Forest had issued its Final Environmental Impact Statement did the agency decide to evaluate the potential for asbestos exposure. The mining company folded before testing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Roadside Geology of Montana notes: Several early attempts to mine vermiculite in the Skalkaho intrusion went poorly. While at one time that seemed unfortunate, now its clear that we narrowly escaped having another major environmental disaster. Yet, Montanans are facing this situation once again with the U.S. Critical Materials Sheep Creek mine project at the headwaters of the West Fork of the Bitterroot River. There could hardly be in a riskier place to mine given the location, the surrounding wilderness lands, and the threat of river contamination throughout the Bitterroot Valley. One of those areas of concern is actinolite, a close relative of Libbys deadly tremolite and both are asbestos in their fibrous form. As a recent study on the dangers of actinolite concluded: The lack of widespread awareness regarding actinolite complicates efforts to mitigate its health risks. Unlike more commonly known asbestos typesactinolite often remains underestimated. Actinolite occurs in both fibrous and non-fibrous forms, but the fibrous type has garnered a reputation due to its links with asbestos. The health risks associated with this mineral cannot be overstated: Exposure to actinolite, particularly in environments where it is disturbed, poses significant respiratory health risks. The potential for mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other diseases expands with prolonged exposure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be clear, nobody knows if there is asbestos at Sheep Creek. But there is good reason to suspect asbestos may be there. Geologists at Montana Tech report that actinolite is one of the most common minerals in the host rock and the veinlets containing ore are actinolite-rich. The Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Crowley Bulletin reports actinolite at Sheep Creek forms masses of radiating fibers surrounding other crystals. The American Mineralogist, a prestigious industry journal, confirms: actinolite forms clusters of fibers, usually in radiating groups. Theres no question the actinolite is there. But although U.S. Critical Materials has sampled ore for several years and tested for a long list of analytes, I can find no mention of possible asbestos on US Critical Materials website. Asbestos exposure happens by breathing contaminated dust, which is very hard to contain and clean up. Mining is dusty business. Workers at Sheep Creek are already breathing dust. So why not test for asbestos to inform both the public and agency management? Weve been down this lethal road before. Public health concerns are clear: test soon to avoid spreading asbestos around if its there. Contact Bitterroot NF Supervisor Matt Anderson matthew.anderson3@usda.gov and Ranger Dan Pliley Plileydaniel.pliley@usda.gov about possible asbestos at Sheep Creek. Larry Campbell of Darby is a retired mineral exploration geologist. President Trump is struggling with his approval rating even as he has largely followed through on much of what he called for on the campaign trail. Through legislation in Congress and executive action, Trump has been able to mold the federal government to fit his vision, laying off thousands of federal workers with help from the Supreme Court, instituting widespread tariffs that have led to trade deals with various countries and getting his first major legislative achievement passed with the big, beautiful bill. All of these were proposals Trump made on the campaign trail as he became the first Republican to win the national popular vote in 20 years. But Trump has regularly been underwater in approval rating polls, raising questions about whether much of the country is pleased with his job performance and what hes delivered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Experts pointed to multiple reasons for Trumps struggles, including the complexities of governing compared to campaigning for votes. A lot of those things he said he would get done on Day 1, and thats not happened, said Jonathan Hanson, a professor of political science at the University of Michigan. Hanson noted unfulfilled promises by Trump to lower prices and to end conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. He also said Trump is sometimes not winning when he is getting things done. On top of that, where hes had momentum and success in terms of implementing things, generally those policies havent been very popular, Hanson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An underwater approval rating has been a rule for Trump, rather than an exception, throughout his political career. Hes the only president to never have an average approval rating of at least 50 percent in Gallups tracker, though that didnt stop him from being highly competitive in the 2020 race and winning the 2024 race with a sweep of the battleground states. Trump wont be on the ballot again as a candidate, but his poor ratings could hurt Republicans in next years midterm elections. Trumps net approval rating fell to its lowest point yet last week in the Decision Desk HQ (DDHQ) average, accompanied by polls showing vulnerabilities with specific groups such as independents and on certain key issues such as the economy and immigration, though he has somewhat rebounded over the weekend. Hes generally oscillated in the mid-to-low 40s for months in opinion polls after starting out his second term slightly above water for the first month and a half. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the changes from week to week have generally been no more than a couple of points, hes consistently receiving less support in his approval rating than the percentage of voters who backed him in November, which was just under 50 percent. Scott Tranter, the director of data science for DDHQ, said a presidents approval rating being poor has been the new normal for administrations dating back at least to the start of Trumps first term. Former President Biden had a honeymoon period for the first few months of his presidency, but his approval rating dropped by August and never recovered, staying in the high-30s to low-40s range. Theres a reason why populism is becoming big in the United States, Tranter said. In America, its just easy to hate the government. He said peoples motivations for why they dont approve of a certain president may vary greatly depending on their political beliefs, but its resulting in no president being all that widely liked in the modern era. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its kind of like someone saying, I dont like McDonalds, and one person doesnt like McDonalds because theyre vegan, and the other person doesnt like McDonalds because its high in fat, he said. Its due to completely different reasons, but they both hate McDonalds. What is thermostatic opinion? Hanson said some of Trumps declining numbers can be explained by thermostatic opinion, a term in political science that describes opinions changing as a result of government action. People start to change their minds once they see the policy changes at the national level, and they react against it, he said. If they were on the fence before, if they were a little bit uncertain, they now have new information, and they turn against what theyre seeing. One of the issues where this effect has been arguably more pronounced recently has been immigration, which has consistently been one of Trumps strongest areas in public opinion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several polls have found public approval of Trumps handling of immigration dropping. The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research recorded a 6-point drop on the issue from March to a poll this month, while a Reuters/Ipsos poll placed his approval on it at 41 percent. Hanson pointed to the visceral images of raids from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on television as turning some off who previously supported Trumps calls for deportations, which during the campaign focused mostly on those who have committed crimes in the U.S. While Trump has railed against those in the country illegally who have been accused of committing violence, many people rounded up in ICE raids and facing deportation havent been accused of committing violent crimes. His focus was, We need to get these criminals off the streets, and thats where were going to focus, he said. But thats not really been the focus. So a little bit of difference from what people thought they were getting versus what theyre actually getting, even though he is being aggressive on those issues. Tariffs are a theme Some of Trumps proposals also havent played out as straightforwardly as he presented them throughout 2024, such as tariffs. While campaigning, Trump argued that other countries were taking advantage of the U.S., and the tariffs would help ensure the country gets a better deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But a regular back-and-forth between Trump announcing tariffs and delaying them has defined much of the past six months, which Hanson called chaotic. Trump has notched victories with several trading partners in securing deals, including one with the European Union on Sunday, but the publics view of his handling of tariffs has consistently been a drag on his overall approval rating. Charles Franklin, the director of the Marquette Law School Poll, noted some of the fears of tariffs causing a wider economic downturn havent happened at least yet potentially helping to keep up Trumps support among Republicans, with up to 90 percent regularly saying they approve of him. But Franklin added that the polls may show a segment of the population that supported Trump in November but whose votes were more about voting against the Democrats and an unpopular incumbent at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is one other thing that is easy to ignore, and that is how negative voters were towards Joe Biden in 2024, and I think that needs a lot more credit for explaining the problems with independents voting for Trump, he said. Trump has improved slightly among independents in recent days in the DDHQ tracker, but hes been under 40 percent approval with them for almost two months. Theres also this question about how negatively people viewed the Biden administration, and that didnt go away when [former Vice President Kamala] Harris became the nominee, Franklin said. It may have moderated not much and its easy to forget that when were focused now on everything that Trump does, is some of the blame for 2024 among Democrats is they had a very unpopular president. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Editor's note: Names of some service members have been changed or withheld for security reasons. Asked recently in parliament when Ukrainian soldiers fighting since the first days of Russia's full-scale invasion would be coming home, President Volodymyr Zelensky replied: "When we defeat the enemy." With the war now in its fourth year and no clear end in sight, Zelensky's remarks, delivered following a major government reshuffle, brought renewed attention to the deeply sensitive question of whether soldiers should be discharged from military service while the war is ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion, the Ukrainian government has not established a system for rotating troops out of long-term service or discharging them after extended deployments. Under the current legislation, demobilization is only permitted once martial law is lifted. The challenge is less a question of legislation and more one of recruiting enough new soldiers to relieve those who have been on continuous duty since 2022. In short, Ukraine is not mobilizing enough troops each month to let soldiers demobilize, leaving families wondering when they will be reunited. In May, Zelensky said Ukraine is currently mobilizing around 25,000 to 27,000 troops per month, while Russia mobilizes nearly twice that number. The president told the Economist in February of this year that Ukraine had mobilized 30,000 people a month in 2024. (L-R) Then-Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, President Volodymyr Zelensky, Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, and Chief of the General Staff Anatolii Barhylevych attend a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chiefs Staff in Ukraine on Nov. 4, 2024. (President Volodymyr Zelensky / Telegram) Service member Dmytro, a soldier in the 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade, enlisted at the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. He has been on duty for over three years, with no path barring desertion to leave the army. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The lack of clear terms of service is a serious problem, as it is taking a toll on soldiers' mental health," Dmytro told the Kyiv Independent. "At the same time, I honestly do not know how this could be addressed under current conditions. But if nothing changes, it will eventually hurt the Ukrainian Armed Forces as well." Attempts to roll out changes to the regulations have been made before, although none have been successful. A clause allowing soldiers to be discharged after three years of service was initially included in the 2024 mobilization bill. However, it was removed ahead of the second reading in parliament at the request of Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, according to Ukrainska Pravda (UP). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In late January, the Defense Ministry also prepared a draft law regulating the dismissal and rotation of soldiers during martial law. But without backing from the General Staff, the proposal was not registered in parliament, UP reported. And in April, the Armed Forces Communications Directorate told UP that the draft law on clear terms of service would go to parliament only if troop levels were sufficient to sustain the fight against Russia. Why is discharge from service impossible for most? Under martial law, Ukrainian soldiers can be discharged only under a narrow set of conditions, such as serious health issues, the need to raise a child, or caring for close relatives with severe illness or disability. Volunteers aged 18 to 24 who are not subject to conscription can be discharged after one year of service if they have signed Contract 18-24, an initiative by the Defense Ministry to encourage more young people to join the army. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In most other cases, service members are required to remain on duty. They are entitled to 30 days of basic annual leave. Additional leave may be granted for family emergencies, medical treatment, recovery after captivity, or pregnancy. However, even authorized leave can be denied if there are no available replacements, the unit's combat readiness would be compromised, or for other operational or organizational reasons. Ukrainian Marine Corps soldiers transfer personnel to a British Mastiff infantry fighting vehicle in the Kurakhove frontline, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, on Dec. 28, 2024. (Kostiantyn Liberov / Libkos / Getty Images) "There is a sense of being a hostage, trapped by circumstances," Oleksii Nazarenko, a soldier currently serving in a unit specializing in unmanned systems, told the Kyiv Independent. "And we are all in the same boat with other soldiers, working together to shovel out the problems before they sink us." Nazarenko has served in the army since the very beginning of the full-scale invasion. He moved between units seeking the greatest impact and, despite a shrapnel wound, returned, determined to keep serving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But after over three years of continuous service, Nazarenko admitted to feeling worn down and said that another year would feel unbearable. "What most frightens Ukrainians about mobilization is not the mobilization itself, but the uncertainty, specifically, the lack of clear terms of service under martial law." Meanwhile, in May, lawmaker Fedir Venislavskyi, member of the parliament's defense and intelligence committee, said during a press conference that mobilization had slowed compared to last year but remained enough to "hold the front line." Despite official claims, Pavlo Kazarin, who is serving in the 104th Territorial Defense Brigade, raised doubts about the effectiveness of the mobilization, as clear service terms and rotations were not established, and Ukrainian units are still seeking replenishment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kazarin noted that several punitive measures for draft evaders, including the freezing of bank accounts, driving restrictions, and vehicle confiscation, were removed from the draft version of the mobilization law that came into effect on April 18, 2024. This step partly contributed to a decline in service discipline. Members of the Kharkiv Regional Recruitment Office check a civilians documents while patrolling a key location to find men of fighting age to bring them to the recruiting office in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on Aug. 8, 2024. (Narciso Contreras / Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) "If the government truly wanted to restore order, it would first need to make the cost of ignoring a draft summons so high that no one would dare toss it in the trash. The consequences should be severe enough that failing to comply with mobilization requirements would fundamentally change a person's life," Kazarin said. The soldier also mentioned that the current administrative fine for failing to report to the enlistment office or attend a medical exam ranges from Hr 17,000 to 25,000 ($405$600), adding that "this is not a price high enough to make anyone take action." "Unfortunately, our mobilization efforts have fallen short of the desired targets. We are not talking about demobilization now, but about reinforcing the ranks to ease the burden on those who have served in the Ukrainian Armed Forces for over three years," Kazarin said. Will Ukrainian soldiers see any relief soon? Although the Defense Ministry asked parliament in December 2024 to extend the deadline for drafting a demobilization bill until March 18, 2025, no progress had been made as of July 21, according to Iryna Friz of the parliamentary committee on national security, defense, and intelligence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Friz, some bills submitted by MPs and parliamentary groups as legislative initiatives are effectively blocked, as the main parliamentary committee refuses to consider them. "From my point of view, this is a completely wrong and misguided position, because it directly affects the morale of those who have been in the combat zone since 2022. It is psychological, moral, and physical exhaustion, and it also directly impacts mobilization rates," Friz told the Kyiv Independent. A Ukrainian soldier cries on his comrades shoulder after returning from the Kursk region near the Russian border in Sumy Oblast, Ukraine, on Aug. 14, 2024. (Kostiantyn Liberov / Libkos / Getty Images) "What most frightens Ukrainians about mobilization is not the mobilization itself, but the uncertainty, specifically, the lack of clear terms of service under martial law," Friz added. Although the bill remains stalled, military personnel continue to serve with no clear sense of what lies ahead. In the face of that uncertainty, each soldier finds their own way to stay mentally and physically strong as they carry on defending Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Frankly, I hope that if not for the draft law on clear terms of service, the war will end sooner or later," Dmytro, a soldier in the 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade, said. "But how will it end for us?" Note from the author: Hi, this is Kateryna, and I wrote this story for you. Like many Ukrainian families, mine has a loved one who has been serving since the earliest days of the full-scale invasion. I will not hide that going months without seeing him has been incredibly hard. That is why working on this piece was deeply personal for me. If you want more stories like this, consider joining our community today to help support our work. Read also: Russia to draft year-round under proposed continuous mobilization Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) Two local organizations want the community to unite in hope and prayer. H3 Ministries and the YMCA of Wichita Falls will host a community prayer gathering on Sunday, August 17, at 6:30 p.m. at the Bill Bartley YMCA. This event is a time to pause, reflect, and pray for healing, strength and direction. It is an honor for the YMCA to host the Community Night of Prayer and provide a welcoming space to come together in unity and hope. We believe in the power of prayer to bring healing, strength, and a deeper sense of community among us all, said CEO and President Jon Dearolf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This event is open to the public and all are welcome, regardless of faith level. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com. An Israeli settler sanctioned by the Biden administration has been arrested in the killing of a well-known Palestinian activist in the West Bank. Local outlets and The New York Times reported Tuesday that police named Yinon Levi as the suspect in the shooting of Awdah Hathaleen, a journalist from the West Bank village of Umm al-Khair whose work was featured in the Academy Award-winning documentary No Other Land. Levi, whose U.S. sanctions were lifted by President Donald Trump in January,was detained and released on house arrest, police said. No formal charges have been brought against him yet, The Guardian reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His confrontation Monday with Palestinians, set off by Levi and a colleague bulldozing a path through the the fields of Umm al-Khair to expand the Israeli settlement of Carmel, was captured on video and showed him firing multiple times. In statements reported by the Times, Levis lawyer said his client was shooting into the air, acting in self-defense in response to Palestinians hurling stones at him. Yinon Levi photographed working on his farm in 2024. Maya Alleruzzo/Associated Press Hathaleen was not involved in the dispute and was standing at a community center about 150 feet away when he was hit by the stray bullet, his cousin and another activist told the Times. Levi was one of four Israelis whom President Joe Bidens State Department brought financial sanctions against last year, saying hed led settler groups that assaulted Palestinian and Bedouin civilians, threatened them with additional violence if they did not leave their homes, burned their fields and destroyed their property. The move locked Levi out of the international economic system and froze his Israeli bank accounts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He denied any wrongdoing to to ABC News at the time. When we first found out about it, we thought it was a joke. Why would Biden care about us? he said. Anarchists come to our territory and do provocations. They disturb the soldiers, they attack us, the dog and the sheep on purpose and document it for provocation, he continued. Awdah Hathaleen, a journalist from the West Bank whose work was featured in the Academy Award-winning documentary No Other Land, was killed Monday. Courtesy of Awdah Hathaleen Levi was also sanctioned by the European Union last year as an extremist settler whos responsible for serious human rights abuses against Palestinians. The U.K. also brought sanctions against him, saying he used physical aggression, threatened families at gunpoint, and destroyed property as part of a targeted and calculated effort to displace Palestinian communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hathaleen, whose work documented the forced expulsions and demolitions in the West Bank, was mourned by the filmmakers involved in No Other Land, which won the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature Film this year. My dear friend Awdah was slaughtered this evening, Basel Adra, the films Palestinian co-director, wrote on social media. He was standing in front of the community centre in his village when a settler fired a bullet that pierced his chest and took his life. This is how Israel erases us one life at a time. Related... For a third summer in a row, extreme heat is causing chaos in southeastern Europe. Turkey recorded its highest temperature on record on Friday reaching 50.5C, or 123F. The UK Met Office says: This extreme heat is bringing serious health impacts and giving a very high risk of wildfires. Blazes have also broken out in parts of Albania and Italy. In Greece, firefighters are tackling wildfires in the northern suburbs of Athens as well as on some Greek islands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A pattern of wildfires and evacuations on Greek islands has played out each summer. 2023: the mass evacuation of 20,000 holidaymakers from the Greek island of Rhodes due to wildfires. 2024: many British tourists in Kos were moved from their hotels as a precaution as wildfires flared. Other islands including Zante still bear the scars of wildfires. 2025: earlier this summer, several thousand people were evacuated from the south eastern corner of Crete, though the wildfires did not affect the key resorts of Elounda and Malia. Besides the extreme distress caused to communities who have seen some homes destroyed in the blaze, there is concern about the safety of holidaymakers with fears that hot, dry conditions could fuel further blazes. Holidaymakers are feeling the heat in Greece and Turkey (Reuters) What is happening in Greece? The Greek national weather service predicts that, on the mainland, the heat will reach heights of 37 degrees this summer. The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has issued a Fire Risk Map that shows the southern mainland of Greece, as well as the whole island of Crete, at the second-highest alert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fires over the weekend on some lesser-visited islands including Kythira and Evia. After weeks of hot, dry weather, the fear is that wildfires could break out elsewhere. Holidaymakers in Athens have been affected: the Acropolis, the main tourist attraction in the Greek capital, closed for five hours on Sunday afternoon due to high temperatures for the safety of employees and visitors. Meanwhile cruise ships are cancelling some excursions because of concerns about extreme heat. High temperatures can lead to health risks among children and older people (AP) What are the authorities saying about the current heatwave? Even without wildfires, heat can be a serious problem. The Greek weather service warned people at the weekend on the island of Crete that high temperatures will lead to health risks amongst the elderly and very young. The NHS warns that excessive heat is potentially dangerous for children aged five and under, and older people aged 65 years and over, as well as people with underlying health conditions including heart problems, breathing problems, and diabetes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The advice is to avoid outdoor activities, keep well hydrated and stay in an air-conditioned room which may not constitute everyones idea of a great holiday. The Foreign Office earlier this month stepped up its warning for British travellers to Greece, to include the advice of: consider preparing a grab bag containing passports, mobile phones and chargers, cash, bank cards and medications. The official advice may not constitute everyones idea of a great holiday (Simon Calder) Is the Turkish temperature record more alarming? It is, but the peak was reached about as far from the coast and cities of southwest Turkey as it is possible to be in the southeastern city of Silopi, on the Iraqi border. More of concern are the wildfires that have claimed firefighters lives in the large western Turkish city of Bursa, which is not far from Istanbul. But life is continuing as normal in Istanbul and the key resort areas around Bodrum, Marmaris and Antalya. Visitors have been advised to keep well hydrated (AP) Can people anxious about travelling to Turkey and Greece cancel? Probably not without losing most, or all of, their money. Under the Package Travel Regulations, holidaymakers can cancel for a refund if unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances occur at the place of destination or its immediate vicinity which significantly affect the performance of the package or the carriage of passengers to the destination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The high temperatures and localised wildfires do not (yet) constitute unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances that could affect holidays. Usual terms will apply: for imminent departures, cancellations are likely to result in the loss of the total cost of the holiday. It can, though, be transferred to other people for a nominal fee. Holidaymakers who have declared a pre-existing medical condition that would clearly be exacerbated by the unusually hot weather may be able to claim if they decide not to travel. Read more: Europe heatwaves: what are your rights to change or cancel a trip? Conversely, could people pick up a bargain holiday this summer? Yes. Holiday companies are selling many packages for under 400 per person to Greece and Turkey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The best deal found by The Independent is with Jet2 from Bristol to Stoupa, south of Kalamata on the Pelopponese peninsula. A week for a family of four, departing 31 July, is priced at just 272 each. Tui is offering a week in Olu Deniz in southern Turkey for 381, departing from Exeter on 31 July. The price includes flights with baggage, transfers and hotel with breakfast. The Greek island of Zante is even cheaper: 361 from Gatwick on 10 August, though this is self-catering accommodation. To the highly rated resort of Elounda in eastern Crete, easyJet Holidays is selling a weeks self-catering package from Liverpool on 5 August for 468. Holiday companies are still selling packages to the region (Simon Calder) If extreme heat is an annual event in the Med, could holidaymakers switch to cooler destinations? That seems rational including staying in Britain. But tourism minister Sir Chris Bryant says domestic tourism in the UK is still below pre-Covid levels; the British love going abroad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is an increased emphasis on travel to northern destinations, with more routes this summer to Iceland, Norway and Finland than ever. Yet the shift is only marginal. Looking at easyJets schedules for this week from Manchester: there are nine flights to the Egyptian Red Sea and only one to Iceland, which makes clear the appetite for sunshine. The temperature this week in the Red Sea resorts of Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada will reach 39C (over 102F) this week. The Ekatontapyliani on Paros now opens for visitors from 7am to 11pm (Simon Calder) Some shrewd destinations around the Mediterranean are laying on activities that avoid the hottest times of day. In the Italian Adriatic city of Grado, for example, the free city walking tour begins at 10pm. The oldest and most impressive church in the Aegean the Ekatontapyliani on the Greek island of Paros now opens for visitors from 7am to 11pm. Read more: The best mountain breaks in Europe to escape blistering summer heatwaves RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) A day after former North Carolina governor Roy Cooper announced he is running for the United States Senate seat that will be vacated by Republican Thom Tillis, his would-be opponent for the Democratic nomination has dropped out and pledged his support for Cooper. We started this campaign to send Thom Tillis packing. Well, mission accomplished I guess! said Wiley Nickel, who officially launched his candidacy for the 2026 U.S. Senate race in April. PREVIOUSLY: Wiley Nickel plans to suspend campaign, endorse Roy Cooper for Senate: Sources Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nickel was a two-term state senator before being elected into the U.S. House of Representatives in 2022. He served NCs 13th congressional district which at the time encompassed all of Johnston County as well as southern Wake County and parts of Harnett and Wayne counties for one two-year term. It was an honor to work alongside Governor Cooper in the State Senate and in Congress. Ive seen firsthand his steady, bipartisan leadership. He listens, he shows up, and he gets things done, Nickel said in his endorsement. From making North Carolina the top state for business to guiding our communities through natural disasters, his leadership has made a real difference. And for so many of us, including me, hes been an inspiration to step up and serve. I proudly endorse Governor Cooper for US Senate and look forward to doing everything I can to help him flip this Senate seat from red to blue. Coopers GOP opponent in the race for Tillis seat is expected to be Republican National Committee chairman Michael Whatley, who sources have said has the backing of President Donald Trump. Though Nickel suspended his U.S. Senate bid to throw his support behind Cooper, he hinted that a run for a different role could be on the table. On Friday, a source close to Nickels campaign told CBS 17 that the trained lawyer is considering running for the Wake County District Attorney office that will be vacated by Lorrin Freeman, who earlier this year said she would not seek reelection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive still got a lot of work left to do, that part hasnt changed, Nickel said Tuesday. Public service is a part of who I am and youll hear more from me soon. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. CARY, N.C. (AP) A former congressman will no longer seek an open U.S. Senate seat in North Carolina next year now that fellow Democrat Roy Cooper is running for the post. Tuesday's announcement by ex-U.S. Rep. Wiley Nickel came the day after Cooper, a former two-term governor, kicked off his own campaign to succeed retiring Republican Sen. Thom Tillis with a video message. Cooper's past popularity, name recognition and fundraising ability made him the party's front-runner overnight. "Ive seen firsthand his steady, bipartisan leadership. He listens, he shows up, and he gets things done," Nickel said while endorsing Cooper and revealing plans to suspend his own Senate campaign. And for so many of us, including me, hes been an inspiration to step up and serve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nickel had signaled interest in a 2026 U.S. Senate bid nearly two years ago, when the Raleigh-area congressman decided against seeking a second U.S. House term because he said district lines redrawn by the General Assembly made it essentially impossible to win again. Nickel formally launched a Senate campaign in April, focusing on unseating Tillis. But his activities were always overshadowed by what Cooper, who wrapped up eight years as governor last December, decided to do next. Well before Tillis announced June 29 that he would not seek a third term, many state and national Democrats hoped Cooper would join the race. We started this campaign to send Thom Tillis packing. Well, mission accomplished I guess! Nickel quipped. Cooper's nearly 40 years in state electoral politics, including time as a state legislator and attorney general, made him a top-tier option for what's expected to be one of the most competitive 2026 Senate contests. While Cooper could still face intraparty opposition, Nickel's departure could clear the field of significant challengers heading to his party's primary in early March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the GOP side, Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley plans to run for the nomination, with President Donald Trump s blessing, according to two people familiar with his thinking who were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly before an official announcement. Whatley, the former North Carolina GOP chairman, received Trumps endorsement after Lara Trump, the president's daughter-in-law and a North Carolina native, passed on the seat. Another potential candidate, first-term U.S. Rep. Pat Harrigan, said over the weekend he would seek reelection instead. Nickel, 49, is a lawyer and former state senator whose career has included working as a White House staffer in Barack Obamas administration. In 2022, Nickel narrowly won a swing-district election over Republican Bo Hines, who had received Donald Trump's endorsement in the GOP primary. Nickel hinted in Tuesday's statement about future political endeavors. "Public service is a part of who I am and youll hear more from me soon, he said. Tillis announced his decision not to seek another six-year term after Trump threatened to back a primary candidate against him as Tillis opposed Medicaid reductions in the presidents tax break and spending cut package. To retake the majority in 2026, Democrats need to net four seats, and most of the contests are in states that Trump easily won last year. Trump won North Carolina by about 3 percentage points, one of his closest margins of victory. BOSSIER CITY, La. (KTAL/KMSS) Its July 29, and local wing lovers have plenty to celebrate with it being National Chicken Wing Day, as restaurants across Bossier Parish, like Wingstop and Buffalo Wild Wings, serve up hot deals for this special day. (Photo illustration by Cheng Xin/Getty Images) Mark your calendar for Whataburgers 75 cent burger day Wingstop is offering customers five free wings with any online combo purchase, available for a limited time when using their promo code, which can be found online. The popular chain also announced the return of its Tender Tuesday deal, starting Aug. 5, giving chicken lovers even more reason to stop in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Buffalo Wild Wings is running a special promotion through Sunday, August 3, offering six free wings with any purchase of $10 or more. The deal is available for dine-in and takeout, giving customers flexibility on how they get their fix. Both promotions are part of a nationwide celebration of one of Americas favorite game-day and comfort foods. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. In 2025, Instagram will be among the leading social media platforms for developing personal brands and promoting businesses. It has more than 2 billion monthly active users, which is a huge potential to reach out. Nevertheless, organic growth may become a daunting experience in the face of more limiting algorithms and ever-growing competition. That is why an increasing number of entrepreneurs and marketers resort to paid growth services to launch their presence on Instagram. The appropriate provider will bring a flood of followers that will speed up your development and boost your credibility. But not all sites for buying Instagram followers are created equal. Low-quality services peddle fake or inactive accounts that do little for your brand. Thats where GoreAd stands outoffering high-quality, authentic follower growth that prioritizes real engagement and long-term value. Quality matters when it comes to paid growth. The Role of Followers In the context of these trends, purchasing followers can serve some key strategic goals: Social Proof. More followers enhance perceived authority and credibility. A large base attracts real users. Discoverability. Accounts with more followers get more visibility in hashtags and search results. Peer Validation. People tend to engage more with accounts that many others already follow. When combined with amazing content, bought followers accelerate organic growth by boosting visibility and peer trust signals. They prime the pump for Instagram's algorithms to promote you more. Vetting Follower Providers Not all sources for paid followers provide equal value. Here are key factors to assess as you evaluate providers: Account Quality. Good services deliver followers from real, active accounts that engage with others. Retention Rates. Quality followers tend to stick around longer, while fake accounts quickly disappear. Delivery Speed. Faster delivery jumpstarts perceived momentum and credibility. Refill Policy. Protection against follower drops preserves your growth investment. Reviews. Customer feedback offers transparency into others experiences. With these criteria in mind, here are the top sites to buy Canadian Instagram followers in 2025: GoreAd GoreAd tops our list as the highest-rated all-in-one Instagram growth service on the market. They deliver premium followers while also helping you build authentic engagement and reach with content promotion tools. Over 50,000 clients praise GoreAd for delivering the fastest, highest-retaining followers available today. Packages range from 50 to 400k followers, with options for one-time or recurring deliveries. All activity stays completely safe and in compliance with Instagram's terms. You simply provide your username - no passwords required. GoreAd handles the rest, drip-feeding a natural mix of followers to your account. With their 30-day refill guarantee and responsive support team, GoreAd provides exceptional value and reliability. For the best quality and continuation of your Instagram growth investment, they are the top choice for Canadians in 2025. SocialFuse For those with tighter budgets, SocialFuse balances affordability and quality. They offer packages starting as low as 100 followers, making growth accessible to more entrepreneurs. Their control panel also provides transparency into your order details and delivery progress. Support agents assist promptly if any issues arise. While priced lower than some options, SocialFuse still delivers decent account quality and retention rates. Just don't expect ultra-fast delivery at their entry-level pricing. For an affordable way to augment your organic efforts, SocialFuse hits the mark. Just be prepared for a slightly more gradual influx of followers. UseViral Boasting a 97% monthly retention rate, UseViral shines when it comes to follower stability. The followers you buy tend to stick around longer than many competitors. They also have one of the most responsive support teams, with 24/7 live chat and email access. Given the long-term focus, UseViral appeals to those playing the long game with their Instagram growth. On the downside, some users report slower delivery times, at 2-4 weeks to receive their full order. So if you need a sudden boost in growth, UseViral may not be the quickest solution. But for stable, enduring growth, their retention is hard to beat. Famups Catering specifically to nano-influencers, Famups offers buying power for smaller accounts. With packages starting at just 100 followers, it allows you to test paid growth even if you have a limited budget. The nano-focus also means they hand-pick followers interested in accounts of your size. So the followers delivered are more likely to engage compared to some mass-market services. Support and average delivery times also beat out some other budget providers. Just don't expect ultra-fast turnarounds. Deliveries can take 5+ days depending on package size. Mr. Insta For nano-influencers strategic about long-term, loyal community building, Famups hits a sweet spot between quality, customization, and affordability. For those who want follower delivery within 1-2 days, Mr. Insta is a solid pick. Their starter packages ship quickly, making it one of the fastest budget-friendly options. They also offer small test packages for under $50. So it's easy to try them out before committing to a bigger order. No waiting weeks or having big budgets to see quick results. While convenient for faster delivery, some users complain of follower quality and retention being hit or miss. So long-term growth requires multiple re-orders to keep new followers coming. For a rapid influx to hit a goal or test buyer waters, Mr. Insta gets the job done. Just set expectations around potential reorders to maintain numbers long-term. Followersup Living up to their name, Followersup focuses on consistent, gradual follower growth. If you'd rather a slow drip versus huge spikes in followers, they provide a smooth acceleration. Daily package options let you control the exact pace you want. The more you pay, the more new followers get added each day. It's a handy way to blend paid and organic growth seamlessly. Simply understand that the gradual nature implies that it may take weeks or even longer to deliver larger orders completely. Thus, Followersup is appropriate to those who are interested in long-term, sustainable growth trends rather than leaps. Conclusion GoreAd is the most obvious leading option in 2025 and the best one in terms of Instagram growth. Their high-quality and all-around growth tools offer matchless consistency to your paid growth investment. And their prices can outcompete several sole-follower providers. Nevertheless, the other services that have been mentioned also cater to some niches. Select according to your budget, aims, and preferences for growth style. Simply bear in mind that good followers are even more valuable than vanity metrics in isolation. Retention and engagement are better than giant, overnight spikes with dubious origins. Play in the long term and have paid services supplement your organic ones. by Natalie key for www.femalefirst.co.uk A bold campaign to recall Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Muthoni Passaris is now officially in motion. Four young Kenyans Shakira Wafula, Mavin Mabonga, Dominic Omondi, and Sichei Soet walked into the IEBC offices in Nairobi on Monday, July 28, and filed a written petition requesting that the two-term member be ejected from office. The message was clear: Nairobi requires responsible leadership, and Passaris has failed to meet the challenge. The IEBC received the petition and began examining it to determine if it meets the requirements of being pursued under the law. Filed under Article 104 of the Constitution, which says that the people have a right to recall MPs after two years of service and not during the final year of serving, the move may prove to be historic. No Kenyan MP has ever been successfully recalled using this mechanism. On social media, Kenyans on Twitter have been driving the recall push via the hashtag, #ByeByePassaris. Why the Petitioners Want Passaris Out Passaris is accused by the petitioners of having turned against the people to whom she was elected to represent, most notably women, and claiming that she has joined a regime that continues to suppress civil freedoms and to undermine public dissent. One of their key grievances is that she has been supporting a contentious bill being debated in Parliament that would require protesters to seek permission in advance before holding demonstrations. The petitioners assert that this bill violates the constitutional guarantee of freedom of peaceful assembly and that Passaris endorsement of such an action is evidence of complicity in curtailing freedoms rather than protecting them. Their petition also condemns Passaris for failing to stand with Nairobi residents during recent anti-government protests, which were brutally dispersed by police. Protesters, who were mainly women, were brutalized and in some cases allegedly subjected to sexual violence by security forces. During this time, Passaris, the elected official mandated to represent and defend womens rights in Nairobi, allegedly remained publicly silent. Questions Over NGAAF Funds In addition to her stated positions, the petitioners also raise alarm regarding Passaris management of the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), intended to benefit vulnerable populations such as women, youth, and persons living with disability. They allege she has steadfastly declined to present audited financial statements or even basic information on how the funds have been distributed or spent. This lack of transparency, according to petitioners, is a reason for grave concern about accountability and abuse of public funds during her term in office. In addition, the petition accuses Passaris of disseminating false information and exaggerating her achievements in the public eye, further muddling the difference between her public image and performance.. They say this pattern of behavior reflects a disregard for truth and accountability, key pillars of ethical leadership. The petition cites several constitutional provisions they believe the Woman Representative has breached, including: Article 10 National values and principles of governance Article 35 Access to information Article 73 and 75 Ethical conduct of state officers Article 95 Role of Members of Parliament Article 232 Values and principles of public service The group further refers to Chapter Six of the Constitution, which talks about leadership and integrity, and insists that Passaris actions do not meet the ethical and moral requirements that elected leaders must uphold when in office. The petitioners view their campaign as considerably more than a constitutional exercise. They describe it as a civic and symbolic cause to restore power to ordinary Kenyans and to reassert public accountability. The Recall Process Explained If the IEBC approves the petition, the next phase will involve collecting at least 750,000 valid signatures equivalent to 30 percent of Nairobis 2.5 million registered voters. Additionally, the signatures must include support from at least 15 percent of voters in at least half of Nairobis 85 wards. After the signatures are filed, the IEBC will have 30 days to authenticate them. If successful, the Commission is required to inform the Speaker of the National Assembly, who is required by law to issue a call for a recall election within 90 days. But the threshold for success is still high: 50 percent of registered Nairobi voters need to come out and vote, and the majority need to cast their votes in favor of the recall for it to succeed. Despite the high legal and logistical hurdles to be surmounted, the petitioners are upbeat. They believe this movement can revive a culture of active citizenship and accountability and perhaps mark the start of a fresh era where politicians no longer take their seats for granted. Im actually very confident that when we start collecting signatures, it will be possible to get more than one million. Despite filing the petition under my name, I represent many voices people in social justice networks, online communities, and our neighbourhoods. We have the numbers. What I am more concerned about is the murkiness of the recall process itself, said lead petitioner Ms Wafula. WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP) As the temperature continues to rise above the 90s, a woman who lives at the Station Townhomes, also known as the Deacon Station in Winston-Salem, said so does the temperature inside her apartment. She has no air conditioning, and this isnt the first time FOX8 has reported on similar complaints coming from others who live there. Anaiyah Clemonts moved into her apartment at Deacon Station in August 2024 and quickly noticed a problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were noticing that we were setting the AC at a certain number, and it was never reaching even close to that number at any point, Clemonts said. She said she had put in a maintenance request to have it fixed, but it was never resolved. Now, a full year later, she is still dealing with uncomfortable temperatures in her apartment. You check the thermostat, and it says that its set on 70, but its 90 degrees in the unit, Clemonts said. Clemonts shared the documentation with FOX8 detailing her complaints. The most recent one was on Monday after she said the weekend heat was just too much. You cant really do regular things that you would do around your home without feeling like you might have a shortness of breath or feeling like you know youre sweating. For example, you need a fan on you whenever youre trying to do something, Clemonts said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since it all started a year ago, shes requested maintenance 26 times. At some point, they did give me a temporary window unit, but it took a lot to get that, and I only had it for about a week or two until they came in and they took it, and Im pretty sure they went to go give it to another unit, Clemonts said. FOX8 reached out to the leasing team for a comment on when these residents can find relief from the heat and have their air conditioning fixed. There has been no response. The leasing office released the following statement: We have been made aware of insufficient cooling in this particular apartment and have contacted an HVAC contractor to repair the HVAC to provide proper cooling. To the extent we are made aware of cooling issues, we address the issues as soon as possible upon availability of parts and contractor scheduling. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP. Wisconsin DNR calls off search for black bear that mauled woman originally appeared on Bring Me The News. The search for the female black bear that mauled a woman earlier this month in northwest Wisconsin has ended. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) had been working with the Barron County Sheriff's Office and federal wildlife agents to capture and euthanize the sow (female bear) that attacked 69-year-old Karen Frye on July 12 outside her home near Comstock. The DNR announced on Monday that the search was unsuccessful but concluded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frye is recovering and "doing well," according to the DNR. USFWS Midwest Region, Flickr Authorities had been monitoring a series of live-traps and game cameras on Frye's property since the attack. According to the department's large carnivore specialist, Randy Johnson, two female bears, two male bears and two young bears, none of which were involved in the attack, were trapped and released during the search. "After two weeks of round-the-clock surveillance on the property and no additional signs of the sow involved, our current options are exhausted," he said in a statement. The DNR plans to continue monitoring the area. Related: Forest Lake police report increase in bear sightings This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 28, 2025, where it first appeared. MADISON, Wis. (AP) A Wisconsin man pleaded guilty Tuesday to smuggling lab equipment to Russian companies in violation of trade sanctions the United States imposed after Russia invaded Ukraine. Federal prosecutors charged Andrew Pogosyan, a 68-year-old Russian-born U.S. citizen who lives in Madison, in June in a four-count information with conspiracy to defraud the United States and smuggling goods out of the country. According to the information, Pogosyan started using his company, Omega Diagnostics LLC, in September 2022 to ship lab equipment to Russian companies, including one that that performed chemical research for the Russian military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security imposed sanctions in February 2022 on exports to Russia in response to the Ukrainian invasion. The sanctions require exporter to obtain special licenses to ship technology and goods to Russia, particularly products that could help Russia produce chemical and biological weapons. According to prosecutors, Pogosyan did not obtain a license and tried to conceal his exports' ultimate destination by sending them to third-party countries, including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, Latvia, and Lithuania. The products were then forwarded on to the Russian companies. Pogosyan faces up to 35 years in prison when he's sentenced Oct. 7. His attorney, William Coffield, said in an email to The Associated Press on Monday afternoon that Pogosyan is a good person and didn't appreciate the seriousness of the sanctions. He added that Pogosyan's customers were scientists working on medical and other non-military research. He has accepted responsibility," Coffield said, and is working to make amends. Jessica Chen was watching a presentation on the second floor of 345 Park Ave. in Midtown Manhattan on Monday evening with about 150 people when she said she heard multiple gunshots fired "in quick succession" on the floor below her. She rushed into a conference room with dozens of others, where they eventually barricaded themselves in the room using tables and "just stayed still," she told ABC News Live in a phone interview Monday night. "I think it was very, very apparent through all this that a lot of us were young, a lot of us went through training in elementary school of what to do in an active shooter situation," she said. "We were all unfortunately prepared." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: 4 dead, including off-duty NYPD police officer, in Midtown Manhattan shooting: Officials A man wearing body armor and carrying a high-powered rifle had shot and killed at least four people, including an off-duty police officer working security at the building, police sources told ABC News. After apparently barricading himself on the 33rd floor, the suspect was found dead from what is believed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, sources added. Amid the active situation, people desperately searched for places to hide in the conference room on the second floor, Chen said. "We were hiding behind the large monitor. A lot of people were on the ground. We flipped a lot of the tables up," she said. "Some people, if they were a bit later getting there, they really, unfortunately, had to just pull curtains over themselves." WABC - PHOTO: Authorities respond to a shooting at 345 Park Ave. in New York, July 28, 2025. Chen said someone in the room with her had a "direct line" with police who were able to update them as the incident unfolded and told them to stay in place. She said a lot of people were also on their phones, checking for updates on the situation and reaching out to loved ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I texted my parents that I loved them," she said. "I texted people good in my life that I love them." She said those in the room tried to help each other stay calm as much as possible. "We were honestly really, really scared," she said. "Every American has likely thought through the situation of what should they do if an active shooter happened? I've gone through some semi-close cases in elementary school, but even then, nothing could have prepared any of us." "I think all of us were frozen," she continued. "All of us were shocked. Nothing could describe that feeling." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: 3 dead, several injured in shooting outside casino in Reno: Police Once they confirmed the shooter was on the 33rd floor, police had them walk out slowly in an orderly fashion, she said. She said she wasn't wearing shoes when she left and stepped on glass, though was otherwise doing OK. "I think that a lot of the people I've talked to, we're all coming to the same conclusion that this happens too often in America," Chen said. "We really do thank all the schools from across America that make sure to very regularly train their students on exactly what to do in situations like this." "It's very unfortunate that all Americans have had to think it through, but it is the reality of the world we live in," she added. SPRINGFIELD About $4.2 million. Thats the amount of money the U.S. Department of Education held back from the Springfield Public Schools as part of nationwide freeze of education grants, according to the Springfield mayors office. That freeze appeared to have thawed. We have been informed by (the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) that the funds are no longer frozen and we should not have issues in the upcoming school year, Mayor Domenic Sarno said in a statement issued by his office Monday, in response to questions from The Republican. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Department of Education withheld the distribution of more than $6 billion in education grants nationally on the last day of June, saying it needed to review the awards to make sure they aligned with the policies of the Trump administration. The funds were appropriated by Congress and went towards after-school programs and adult literacy teacher professional development, for instance. After initially saying it would release the grants for summer- and after-school programs, the Department of Education said Friday it would begin sending out more of the funds in the coming days, according to the Associated Press. Sarno said the school districts superintendent, Sonia Dinnall, and Patrick Roach, its chief financial and operations officer, told him the freeze would not impact operations, since the money is for programs that start in September. Sarno also chairs the Springfield School Committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The money Springfield is slated to receive includes about $1.9 million for academic enrichment, $1.5 million for professional development, about $619,000 to work with English-language learners and almost $60,000 for work with immigrants, according to the mayors office. Other education officials in the region said the frozen funds either did not significantly affect their operations or they are still awaiting word from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Matthew Brunell, co-executive director of the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership, said it had about $52,000 for after-school programing that was temporarily tied up. The funds that were held back were very discrete, proportionately small, and school-year based ... so we didnt feel the pinch like others have, Brunell wrote in an email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for the Holyoke Public Schools said that school district had about $1.1 million in education grants frozen earlier in July. Due to staff schedules, however, they were unable to confirm which grants were released. Madi Biedermann, a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Education, said in a statement issued to The Republican that the Office of Management and Budget completed its review of five categories of education grants and it has directed the Department to release all formula funds. A spokesperson for the Chicopee Public Schools did not return a request for comment. The Collaborative for Educational Services, which operated 11 summer and after-school programs in the Pioneer Valley for 561 students in the 2025 fiscal year, receives about $1 million in federal grants a year to run the programs. Kathryn Levesque, director of business development, said it is waiting to hear from the state about the released funds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As federal money for the next school year sat in limbo, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education provided the Collaborative with funding to keep its programs running for the rest of the summer and into the start of school. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Altogether, federal education officials held back about $108 million slated to go to Massachusetts schools, the Healey administration said. In a lawsuit challenging the decision, a group of states that includes Massachusetts said the Department of Educations decision to retain the money caused summer schools to shut down and threw careful planning into chaos. more news from Western Massachusetts Read the original article on MassLive. A woman has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life after a house fire in Worcestershire. Police were called to reports of the blaze at the home on Oak Tree Lane, Hollywood, between Birmingham and Redditch, at about 16:00 BST on Tuesday. Officers arrested a 41-year-old woman at the scene who they said was still in custody. The road was still shut while the force worked with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service to make the area safe, a spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers were not looking for anyone else in connection with the fire and no injuries were reported, they added. Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. Related internet links A woman in Massachusetts was left scarred and terrified after being attacked by a raccoon. Katherine Vanbuskirk had a violent encounter with the animal on Saturday, July 26, around 1 a.m. local time while she was letting her dogs outside, according to Fox affiliate WXIX. She claimed the raccoon suddenly jumped at her and scratched her face and arms. The mammal also reportedly gnawed at her hands and legs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It flew at me from several different directions," Vanbuskirk told the outlet. When the woman finally escaped, she closed her deck door and called 911. She recalled screaming "Help me, help me." Vanbuskirk was taken to a nearby hospital, where she was given rabies shots and antibiotics, according to the report. "This is horrible. This is [a] nightmare. I kept saying it to myself because I couldnt find any other words. I just encountered a monster, she said of the incident. To make matters worse, Vanbuskirk said she was unable to find her dog before being taken to the hospital. Fortunately, she told WXIX that the canine was found later in the morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman said in an interview with NBC affiliate WBTS that she had recently undergone shoulder surgery and fought off the raccoon with only her right arm. VanBuskirk suspects her compost bin in her yard may have attracted the animal, so now she has moved it "outside the gates, far away." Getty Stock image of a raccoon in a backyard Stock image of a raccoon in a backyard Regardless of the incident, the woman does not have a vendetta against raccoons. "I just want other people to be careful," she told WBTS. "And you know, Im gonna never blame the raccoon." Raccoons typically avoid humans when they are nearby, according to Critter Control. However, the organization stated that they can adapt to human environments. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human-interest stories. People are encouraged to avoid raccoons in the wild as they are known to be defensive fighters and carry diseases, such as rabies, roundworm and leptospirosis. Read the original article on People AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) An Augusta woman is now charged with Felony Murder in connection to an alleged elderly neglect case involving her mother. According to the court calendar, Tyrossale Peak faces Felony Murder charges in addition to felony neglect of an elderly person. Back in December 2024, Richmond County Sheriffs Office Deputies responded to a welfare check at an Augusta residence, finding the elderly victim in improper conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Peaks arrest warrant for the elderly neglect charges, officials state the victims skin was stuck to the bed mattress due to bed sores popping and drying over time. This is a developing story. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) A homicide investigation is now underway following a deadly house fire News 4 told you about last Thursday. Authorities now say the woman found inside the home was killed before the fire started. Police identified the victim Monday as 45-year-old Kellie Slaughter. New court records reveal what happened days before the house fire. RELATED: Woman dies during house fire, witnesses tried to save her Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Documents show that the victim, Kellie, filed for divorce. In addition, she and her husband filed protective orders. So far, police say they still have no suspects in the case. During the search, we did locate one female victim; she did pass at the hospital, Capt. John Chenoweth with OKCFD said Thursday. OKCFD made the tragic discovery early last Thursday after flames engulfed the home. A neighbor told News 4 that she had rushed over to try and help. Somebody answered it, but no one said anything, Shatara Thomas, who lives nearby, said. I kept ringing it, and I was beating on the door, and the next thing I know, the garage was blasting on fire. The next thing you know, the garage just lifted up by itself, and thats when the flames just came out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the protective order, both wrote about the abuse of one another. Kellie wrote, My husband said he was going to [expletive] me up, including my car and everything in my home. He has harmed me, made numerous amounts of threats, and keeps causing damage to my property. However, in her husbands protective order against her, he is quoted saying, she pulled a gun on me she would get in my face to try and provoke me to get violent. Five days later, the two filed for divorce, and less than 48 hours after that, their home was up in flames with Kellie inside. News 4 is not naming the husband because he is not accused of any crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police tell News 4 that the investigation is ongoing and no one is in custody at this time. They do encourage anyone with information to call them. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. The victim, identified as Sherihan Mishleb by Israeli media, was a divorced mother of three. The motive was "likely criminal," police stated. A 35-year-old woman was found shot dead overnight in her home in the northern Arab town of Abu Snan, Israel Police said Tuesday as a wave of Arab sector homicides continued. The victim, identified as Sherihan Mishleb by Israeli media, was a divorced mother of three. Her children were not at home at the time of her death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The motive was "likely criminal," police stated. Mishlebs body was reportedly discovered by her brother, who alerted authorities. Paramedics pronounced her dead at the scene. Mishleb's relatives have been taken for questioning According to reports, eight of Mishlebs relatives have been detained for questioning, including her ex-husband. According to the Abraham Initiatives, a non-profit organization that promotes Arab integration into Israeli society, the murder was the 149th violent death in theArab community this year. Arab Israelis stage a mock funeral in Tel Aviv on August 6 to demonstrate against what they say is the governments failure to address soaring levels of organized crime. (credit: AMMAR AWAD/REUTERS) The spike is a continuation of the Arab sectors 230 murders in 2024. In 2023, a record number of 244 Israeli-Arabs were murdered, more than double the 120 homicides in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The surge in violence is attributed to organized crime groups fighting turf battles and trying to eliminate rivals. Arab criminal organizations have been involved in extortion, money laundering, and trafficking in weapons, drugs and women. Critics argue the crime wave has worsened since Itamar Ben-Gvir became National Security Minister in 2022. Police Constable Klinzy Masinde Barasa has pleaded not guilty to the murder of street vendor Boniface Kariuki Mwangi, who was shot during the June 17 anti-government protests outside Imenti House in Nairobi. The High Court proceeded with plea-taking after a mental assessment by government psychiatrist Dr. Priscila Makau, dated July 21, 2025, confirmed that Barasa is mentally fit to stand trial. Barasa is now facing a murder charge under Section 203 as read with Section 204 of the Penal Code. During the court session, Barasas counsel, Counsel Keeton, applied for his clients release on bond. The prosecution raised an objection to the application based on an already submitted affidavit by the Republic outlining reasons why bail ought to be denied. A counsel for the family of the deceased Mwangi also made an objection to the application, in the same vein as the prosecution, and asked the court to deny bond. Justice Kanyi Kimondo scheduled a virtual hearing for August 19, 2025, to determine whether Barasa will be granted bail or bond. The judge also issued strict timelines for all parties to file their submissions. The defence shall file their bail application within seven days, Justice Kimondo ruled. He further directed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to serve its application to the defence and respond to the bail request within seven days of receiving it. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is directed to respond within seven days upon service, he added. Counsel Fred Ngatia, representing Mwangis family, was also given seven days to file a response. Justice Kimondo emphasized that the victims family will be allowed to actively participate in the trial. Given the upcoming court recess, he confirmed that the bond hearing will be conducted virtually. Given the upcoming court recess, the hearing of the bail and bond applications shall proceed virtually on August 19, 2025, the judge stated. CLEVELAND (WJW) The Cleveland Division of Police is investigating after a woman was shot during a robbery in the Glenville neighborhood on Sunday morning. Just after 8 a.m., officers from the Fifth District responded to a shooting at the Save A Lot in the 11900 block of Superior Avenue, Cleveland police said. Major road work starting soon on I-90 in Rocky River, Lakewood, Cleveland When they got there, first responders found a 39-year-old victim with a gunshot wound. She was taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a preliminary investigation, the woman was shot during a robbery. The suspect reportedly ran from the scene. There have been no arrests made in the shooting at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. NEED TO KNOW Esther Thomas, ClassyClawz on TikTok, claims to have found a blue land crab infestation in her neighbor's backyard Thomas and her neighbors live in Huntsville, Alabama, over 300 miles from the ocean According to the viral TikTok, the crabs left dozens of holes in the neighbor's yard Unwanted insect infestations cause nightmares. Unwanted crab infestations hundreds of miles from the nearest beach cause confusion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Esther Thomas says she went to the internet for guidance after discovering dozens of blue land crabs digging holes and damaging her neighbor's backyard in Huntsville, Alabama, over 300 miles from the nearest ocean. Thomas uploaded a TikTok ( @ClassyClawz) on July 9, explaining the unusual issue. "You guys will never guess, I'm going to give you five seconds, y'all will not guess what is living in her yard," Thomas says in the clip. "She has blue land crabs living on her property!" Commentators on the TikTok video, which now has over 1.7 million views on the platform, expressed shock at hearing about crabs so far inland and offered suggestions on how to address the problem. Google Maps Huntsville, Alabama Huntsville, Alabama According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, blue land crabs are native to land near coastal areas in south Florida, but have been found in other states, including Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Carolina's Department of Environmental Quality notes that blue land crabs, which come in a variety of colors, are a non-native species that "burrow deep below ground" and "possess a large claw that they can use to dexterously defend themselves." In her TikTok video, Thomas, 33, said she initially learned about the issue after approaching her neighbor, who had been mowing her one-acre property for over three hours. Thomas says she asked why the neighbor had been out there for so long, to which her neighbor replied, "I keep on tripping." Thomas, slightly confused, took a closer look at the yard and saw dozens of softball-sized holes in the ground. At first, she was puzzled at what could've left behind holes deep enough to stick a broomstick down then a lightbulb switched on for her. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In March, Bishop came home with a blue crab in his mouth," Thomas says of her pet. "For the life of me, I couldn't think about where it came from." Thomas' neighbor confirmed her suspicions after sharing that she had found numerous crab legs near the holes while mowing the lawn. Thomas tells PEOPLE that her neighbor tried to get a quote on how much it would cost to address the crab infestation in her backyard. But, according to Thomas, the businesses the neighbor called either didn't believe her or quoted her a steep price. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. "The next day, I recorded the TikTok and it was really to try to help her because she was frustrated and wanted help," Thomas says. "TikTok can go so far, and I have gotten so many good ideas." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She shares that commentators have suggested selling crabs to local restaurants, and some environmental scientists recommend reporting the blue land crabs, which don't usually stray this far from water. After receiving support on TikTok, Thomas says she has started researching the species and asking locals about the history of blue land crabs in Huntsville. Her coworker's father-in-law, born and raised in the city, revealed how he thinks the crabs could survive five hours away from the ocean. "He says, the area used to be swamp land and natural spring water ran through that area, so I guarantee there's an aquifer under the ground," Thomas says. "That's how the crabs are able to get water and nutrition, it made so much sense to me." Read the original article on People Liudmyla has had to leave her home four times because of Russias invasion of Ukraine, and each time she moved, she took her pets with her. Not only that, Liudmyla has also given refuge to other animals who had been abandoned by their owners. Source: UAnimals Details: Liudmyla was born in Avdiivka, Donetsk Oblast, and lived there for many years. After the war started, she moved to Myrnohrad. When the Russians approached the town, she moved to the city of Pokrovsk. When it became dangerous to live there too, she gathered up her pets and evacuated once again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I brought a dog and a cat with me from Avdiivka," Liudmyla said. "In Myrnohrad, as people were leaving, they started abandoning their animals. First I took in this old one, then two cats. I had to move from Myrnohrad to Pokrovsk, and from Pokrovsk to here." She explained that the last move was particularly difficult, as the removal men suggested she should leave the animals behind. "I wont leave without them, Id rather stay," Liudmyla said. At the moment she has four pets of her own and takes care of several other dogs and cats living nearby. Volunteers said Liudmylas son, a serviceman, was killed in action about a year ago. Because of this, Liudmyla refuses to move far away: "I want to stay close to Kryvyi Rih because my son is buried there." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Previously: A woman from Sumy Oblast was evacuated with her 12 dogs. She explained that she was afraid of the attacks but had not left before because she did not want to abandon her pets. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) A Woodruff man pleaded guilty to murder after he shot his former coworker in the head. Cody Flynn Kennerly, 35, pleaded guilty on Monday to the murder of Jason Hammett, according to the 7th Circuit Solicitors Office. PREVIOUS STORY: Man accused of shooting another man, firing at 2 women in Spartanburg Co. On June 8, 2021, at around 6 a.m., Hammett and two women had gone to pick up Hammetts truck on Old Spartanburg Highway, after it had broken down the day before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the group got out of the vehicle, Kennerly shot Hammett in the head and fired at the two women. Hammett was transported to the hospital but died two days after. Kennerly and Hammett knew each other through work and the two had a falling out prior to the shooting, the solicitors office said. Kennerly was sentenced to 35 years in prison. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. Corrections & Clarifications: A previous version of this article misspelled Ronald Andrew Baquera Jr.'s name. A worker in Goodyear died after becoming trapped in a trench at a construction site on July 29, according to the Goodyear Fire Department. The incident happened on the outskirts of northwestern Goodyear, where a man was buried with dirt inside a trench at a construction site in a developing neighborhood, which led to a rescue operation that went on until the man's body was found the next morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First responders worked a complex and dangerous rescue operation that ultimately ended in authorities locating the man dead, according to Ruben Real, a spokesperson for the Goodyear Fire Department. The Goodyear Police Department identified the man on July 29 as Ronald Andrew Baquera Jr., 44, according to spokesperson Sgt. Mayra Reeson. The man's last name was originally misspelled in information provided to the media, Reeson said. Here's what we know about the death of the worker. How did a construction worker get trapped in Goodyear? A regular Monday on a construction site turned into a rescue operation that lasted for over 12 hours, according to the Goodyear Fire Department. It started around 1:10 p.m. July 28 when a worker became stuck in a trench near 183rd Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road, according to Real. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Fire Department responded within six minutes of receiving the call, Real said. The Goodyear Police Department, Phoenix Fire Department's technical rescue team, APS and Southwest Gas workers were also on hand to assist with the rescue. Fire crews arrived and found workers actively attempting to rescue their coworker, who was buried under a large amount of dirt, according to Real. Crews joined the efforts but were unable to reach the man due to the amount of dirt that created unstable conditions in the trench, according to Real. Crews saw the trench continue to collapse as dirt was removed, which created dangerous conditions for the man and all crews involved, according to Real. After about 30 minutes, crews switched to a "more methodical recovery approach" for the safety of the crews involved, according to Real. Police secured the area while crews worked through the night, according to Reeson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Operations resumed into the evening and working through the night with heavy equipment from utility partners, crews removed the worker's body from the trench around 2 a.m. July 29, according to Real. Real said the incident remained under investigation alongside partner agencies. Where exactly did the construction worker get trapped? The construction site was near single-family homes being built in the area of 183rd Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road, but the type of construction the man was working on at the time of the accident was not known, Real said. Who is the worker who died at the construction site? The Goodyear Police Department dispatch system identified the worker as Ronald Andrew Baquera Jr., 44. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Goodyear Fire Department and Goodyear Police Department would like to extend their deepest condolences to the workers family, friends, and coworkers during this difficult time," Real said. Goodyear Police extended the same sentiment. "We join the Goodyear Fire Department in extending our sincere condolences to the workers loved ones during this tragic time," Reeson said. Barquera's family declined to speak with The Arizona Republic at the scene. Who is investigating the death? Goodyear Police were on the scene. Additionally, the compliance division of the Industrial Commission of Arizona started its investigation July 28, said Charles Carpenter, a spokesman for the states workplace safety agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The results of such an investigation typically take four to five months, Carpenter said. Recommendations of citations and proposed penalties are presented to the state board for approval. Carpenter said any business can ask the agency for free consulting services. Officers will offer training and will make worksite inspections to discuss safety measures. At least through consultation, you know where your deficiencies are, Carpenter said. The consulting division does not share information with the compliance division, Carpenter said, so businesses should not fear that anything witnessed in the inspection would be used against them in case of an accident. How often do trench collapses happen? According to a database kept by the federal Occupational Safety and Health agency, at least three people have died in construction-related trench collapses since 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two men died in July 2020 while working in a trench as part of new home construction, according to the database. One man died in Tucson in November 2019 while installing a pipe in a nine-foot trench that collapsed, an incident report said. A Tucson firefighter suffered broken ribs and ankle and knee injuries while attempting to rescue the trapped victim, the database said. The Arizona Republic's Maritza Dominguez and Richard Ruelas contributed to this article. Rey Covarrubias Jr. reports breaking news for The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com. Email him at: rcovarrubias@gannett.com, and connect with him on Instagram, Threads, Bluesky and X (formerly Twitter) at @ReyCJrAZ. (This story has been updated to add more information.) This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Goodyear construction worker dies after becoming trapped underground Sign up for Unlocking the World, CNN Travels weekly newsletter. Get news about destinations, plus the latest in aviation, food and drink, and where to stay. Today, jet-powered plane travel is easy to take for granted. Were used to that surge of speed along the runway that pins us to our seats, those moments when we burst through ominous clouds into bright blue skies, and the gentle pings warning us to fasten seatbelts. And were used to arriving at our destination in one piece. But commercial jet travel is only 73 years old. Britains late Queen Elizabeth II was already the monarch when the de Havilland DH106 1A Comet G-ALYP took off from London Airport as Heathrow was then known about 3 p.m. on May 2, 1952, carrying the worlds first fare-paying jet passengers. Over the next 23 hours, with five stops along the route, it made its way 7,000 miles south to Johannesburg. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That flight marked a huge breakthrough in comfort and speed, compared to even the eras top-of-the-range propeller aircraft like the Lockheed Constellation. Gone were the constant vibrations and the sonic assault from piston engines. The world had suddenly, irreversibly, entered the jet age. And the first jet-plane builder to claim a place in the skies, beating out United States rivals like Boeing, was the British aviation company de Havilland. That advantage wouldnt last: the original Comet DH106 enjoyed only a brief reign before a series of catastrophes led its entire fleet to be pulled out of service and then tested to destruction or left to rot. The DH106 1A Comet has been restored at the de Havilland Aircraft Museum near London. - Barry Neild/CNN Generations later, the only way to experience what it was like on board those first Comets is to look at grainy black-and-white film footage or color publicity photos of smiling families sitting on board DH106 1As. Or at least, until recently, those images were all we had. Now a gang of enthusiasts has painstakingly pieced one of those pioneering jetliners back together with thrilling results. A beautiful sight unknown content item Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - The de Havilland Aircraft Museum is one of the worlds more obscure repositories of aviation artifacts. Located in a belt of farmland and greenery northwest of London, close to the eternally congested M25 highway that encircles the British capital, its easy to miss. There are signposts, but they point to a narrow lane between hedgerows that looks as if it leads to a farmyard or dead end. Indeed, drive down it, and the first notable sight is a grand old manor house Salisbury Hall, built in the 16th century and once home to Winston Churchills mother that usually oversees some kind of agricultural outpost. But keep going, turn a corner, and the museum reveals itself: a field filled with the hulks of old airplanes and a series of hangars that hint at more treasures inside. The site itself is a piece of aviation history. It was here, during World War II, that a local aircraft manufacturer, founded by British aviation pioneer Geoffrey De Havilland, began work to create and test the DH98 Mosquito, an unusual wood-framed combat plane renowned for its speed. After the war, in the late 1950s, a local entrepreneur seized upon the sites legacy to open what was Britains first aviation museum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A bright yellow Mosquito, the only intact World War II prototype plane in existence according to museum staff, is one of the trophy exhibits at the modern de Havilland museum. Its beautifully restored, with its bomb doors hanging wide open and its large propellers, attached to Rolls-Royce Merlin engines, reaching forward. There are other de Havilland legends of the air, both civilian and military, on display. In the corner of the Mosquito hangar is the body of a Horsa glider, an unpowered WWII transport aircraft that was towed into the air and used to deliver troops and weapons behind enemy lines. In the next hangar where passionate volunteers, who on some midweek days easily outnumber visitors, can be found deep in restoration projects theres a DH100 Vampire, a single-seat fighter that was de Havillands first jet plane. This bizarre-looking aircraft, with a twin-boom tail, was also designed at Salisbury Hall. The first DH106 Comet 1A entered commercial service in May 1952, connecting London to Johannesburg. - Central Press/Hulton Archive/Getty Images But the hands-down star of the museums largest show space is the de Havilland DH106 1A Comet. For the legions of people interested in passenger jet planes and their evolution into the complex engineering miracles that now criss-cross the friendly skies, this is a worthy place of pilgrimage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its wings may be missing, but with its body decked out in period Air France livery, with a chrome-effect undercarriage, gleaming white roof, winged seahorse logo and French tricolor flag, the Comet is an eye-catching sight. Its a lovely-looking airplane, even now after all these years, says retiree Eddie Walsh, a museum volunteer who heads up the project to restore and preserve the DH106. That wasnt always the case for this particular aircraft, Walsh explains. When the museum took delivery of it back in 1985, it was more or less a bare metal tube the remains of the fuselage. It looked very sad. Every part of it has been recovered, so the original skin, in fact, was in a very, very poor condition. Utter nightmare Painstakingly, the volunteers slowly began restoring it to its aeronautical former glory and today, the plane stands more or less as it would have nearly three quarters of a century ago, apart from those wings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wed love to have the wings as well, but the wings would almost take up the whole bloomin museum, adds Walsh. This is a shame, since the Comets wings were also a design to behold. Unlike most subsequent commercial aircraft, the plane had its engines, four de Havilland Ghost turbojets, molded elegantly into the wing itself rather than in pods attached below it. The Comet's cockpit has been meticulously recreated by the museum's team. - CNN / Max Burnell Despite their beauty and innovation, the fuel-thirsty engines werent fully up to the job, struggling to drag the Comet into the air. This meant pilots sometimes pulled up too early or ran out of runway. The resulting accidents were horrendous, but the design and engineering shortcomings that eventually led to the Comets demise were even more catastrophic. Before it became a byword for danger, though, the Comet was a showcase for the opulent possibilities of travel. At the rear of the aircraft, a staircase ascends into the tail end of the plane. Stepping through the door is a journey right back into the history of passenger aviation. The planes interior has been lovingly recreated by Walshs crew, down to the finest details. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First there are the bathrooms. Unlike the single-sex facilities of modern planes, the original Comet had male and female toilets the mens facilities fitted with a urinal, the womens with a chair, table and vanity mirror. In the main cabin, half of the plane has been recreated along its original lines, with comfortable rows of twin seats, upholstered in swirling blue fabric that matches the pattern of the red curtains. Each seat comes with plenty of legroom, as well as chrome cup holders and because it was built in the 1950s, ashtrays for smokers who, despite the luxury, wouldve made flights an utter nightmare, says Walsh. The seats look out of large rectangular windows, the signature of the first ever Comet planes wrongly blamed at times for the planes structural failures and replaced by rounder openings in later models. At meal times, cumbersome wooden trays were distributed by the cabin crew, for meals that served on proper plates and eaten with proper cutlery. Overhead, there are no luggage bins, but the museum has used 3D printers to recreate molded light fittings, each with a red button to summon the steward. An almost impossible task First-class seats on the Comet offered a communal seating arrangement. - Barry Neild/CNN Such is the accuracy of the cabin recreation, its easy to imagine what it was like on board the Comet, with real clouds whipping by outside, rather than the static ones painted on the wall of the de Havilland Museum hangar. Its not a million air miles away from the planes we now fly in, but it was certainly aimed at offering a more exclusive aviation experience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That experience had to be made comfortable. Yes, the Comet had smooth jet engines and a pressurized cabin that allowed the plane to ascend 40,000 feet, well above the worst of the weather, and yes, it was faster than propeller-driven rival planes, but its maximum range of 1,750 miles (2,816 kilometers) was far less than that of earlier passenger services. Long journeys, like that debut flight to Johannesburg, did go faster in the Comet, but because they had to be completed in multiple stages, total flying times were still longer than their modern-day equivalents Nearer the front of the Comet, the first-class portion of the cabin more closely resembles a modern private jet than it does the premium seats of todays planes. Here, two pairs of seats face each other across a wooden table a setup clearly aimed at the glamorous families. This was the height of luxury travel. The publicity photos of the time showed passengers decked out in posh frocks and tailored suits, often sipping cocktails or tucking into lavish meals. One memorable, but highly improbable, image shows a family cheerfully watching on as a youngster builds a house of cards on the first-class table. Even with smoother jet engines, those cards wouldnt have stood for long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The level of passenger wealth indicated in the pictures was accurate, though, says Walsh. It was very, very expensive, he adds. I mean, on modern-day travel, you can pick up seats for next to nothing, relatively. But in those days, you had to be somebody of reasonable wealth to actually fly anywhere especially in the Comet. A single ticket on the Comets first service to Johannesburg cost 175 about 4,400, or close to $6,000, in todays money. Past the first-class section, theres a small galley kitchen, with a hot water boiler and sink, plus a luggage section where the giant cases and steamer trunks of the wealthy flyers were held in place by a flimsy piece of netting that mustve been straining to hold them during times of turbulence. Then theres the flight deck again, meticulously recreated by the museums team, right down to the panel of analog dials and switches that wouldve been familiar to the Comets pilots, many of whom cut their teeth flying World War II military aircraft. Here, the complicated setup hints at the efforts that have gone into restoring the plane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recreating it was, says Walsh, bordering on an impossible task. How the heck do you start that? Its one of those jobs where you could stand scratching your head. Where do we get the bits? How do we put them together? How do we lay them out? How do we light them? But it came out, in the end, very well. Too high, too fast, too soon After catastrophic accidents, tests revealed the Comet's fatal flaw. - Barry Neild/CNN Behind the seats for pilot and co-pilot, there are also chairs to accommodate a flight engineer, who wouldve monitored fuel consumption and kept an eye on the mechanics, and a navigator who used maps and a paper and pencil to plot routes. The navigator would also use a periscopic sextant to peer through the roof of the aircraft and calculate position based on the sun and stars exactly like an ancient mariner. While all this mightve been archaic compared to the digital systems used in the latest passenger planes, the Comet was cutting-edge in 1952. It went faster, it went higher, it was much smoother to ride, Walsh says. It was a revelation the Concorde of its day. However, it did not hold onto that position for long. Too high, too fast, too soon, that was the trouble, says Walsh. Back in the main cabin of the de Havilland Museums Comet, one side of the aircraft has been stripped away to reveal the skin of the fuselage and the fixings around the airplanes windows, plus the rivets used to hold them in place. That cabin wall was the most fatal of the Comets several flaws, as the aircraft quickly transformed from a triumph of inventive engineering to a terrifying study in design failure. On March 3, 1953 not even a year since its first scheduled flight a Comet became the first passenger jet plane involved in a fatal accident when a flight operated by Canadian Pacific Airlines crashed into a drainage canal during takeoff, killing five crew and six passengers. Two months later, another crash during takeoff in India killed all 43 people on board. The Comet's cabin included separate male and female restrooms. - Barry Neild/CNN Things got worse the following year. On January 10, 1954, a Comet broke apart in mid-air on a flight to Italy, killing 35 people on board. The incident raised the alarm that there were potential structural problems with the aircraft, resulting in a worldwide grounding for several weeks. Then, shortly after flights resumed, another mid-air accident on April 4, 1954, killed all 21 people on board. After that the Comet 1A was grounded for good. Water tank tests on Comet hulls later concluded that the aircrafts skin was unable to withstand the repeated pressurization and depressurization required for high-altitude flying. Cracks appeared around boltholes and rivets, resulting in explosive breaches in the fuselage around openings such as a cargo door or rooftop antenna. Next to the Comet, the de Haviland museum displays a section of fuselage that was tested to breaking point. Its a tribute to the thoroughness of the aviation investigators who sought to find the airplanes fatal flaws, but also a disturbing reminder of the tragic cost of pushing the frontiers of aviation. While the Comet 1A never flew commercially again, it spawned later versions that went on to be successful, equipped with more powerful Rolls-Royce jet engines and stronger fuselages. But by the time the Comet 4 entered service in 1958, it faced competition from Boeings 707 and the Douglas DC-8, both of which were considered more efficient and desirable by the airlines of the time. De Havillands status in commercial aviation had passed its zenith. The company was later bought by another British aviation giant, Hawker Siddeley, and the brand all but vanished although a one-time subsidiary, de Havilland Canada, is still in operation. The Comet may have gone from the skies, but the legacy it left behind can still be seen in the airplanes we fly today. The innovation that went into the 1A, and the deadly mistakes that went with it, helped shape the aircraft that succeeded it and make them safer. Without somebody starting the whole thing and getting something in operation, then obviously everybody else wont follow, adds Walsh. So it needs somebody innovating the idea, producing the idea and getting it working to say that an aircraft, a jet aircraft, can take off with passengers on board. The Comet is famed for the problems it had, which is a little bit unfair, because it was really an innovation of its time. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A UN-backed food security agency has warned that the worst case scenario of famine is unfolding in Gaza, its starkest alert yet as starvation spreads and Israel faces growing international pressure to allow more food into the territory. Conflict and displacement have intensified, and access to food and other essential items and services has plummeted to unprecedented levels, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) said in an alert, adding that mounting evidence shows that widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths. The IPC said that the alert is intended to draw urgent attention to the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation but doesnt constitute a formal classification of famine. Given the most recent information and data made available, a new IPC analysis is to be conducted without delay, it added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 20,000 children were admitted for treatment for acute malnutrition between April and mid-July, the IPC said, with more than 3,000 severely malnourished. Latest data indicates that famine thresholds have been reached for food consumption in most of the Gaza Strip and for acute malnutrition in Gaza City, the alert said, calling for immediate action to end the hostilities and allow for unimpeded, large-scale, life-saving humanitarian response. In May, the IPC reported that the enclaves entire population was experiencing high levels of acute food security and the territory was at high risk of famine, the most severe type of hunger crisis. Israel has come under mounting pressure by the international community to break its blockade, allow aid into Gaza and end the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In some of his strongest remarks on the crisis, US President Donald Trump on Monday said there is real starvation in Gaza, contradicting earlier statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who insists there is no starvation. Thats real starvation stuff, Trump told reporters in Turnberry, Scotland. I see it, and you cant fake that. So, were going to be even more involved. Trump added that the United States will set up food centers in Gaza to address the crisis. Vice President JD Vance also lamented images coming out of the besieged territory. I dont know if youve all seen these images. You have got some really, really heartbreaking cases. Youve got little kids who are clearly starving to death, Vance told reporters Monday during a visit to Canton, Ohio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israels got to do more to let that aid in, he said, adding that weve also got to wage war on Hamas so that those folks stop preventing food from coming into this territory. Over the weekend, Israel announced a daily tactical pause in military activity in three areas of Gaza to enable more aid to reach people. The military said the move would refute the false claim of deliberate starvation in the Gaza Strip. Israel has also allowed foreign countries to airdrop aid into the territory, but the practice has in the past been deemed by the UN and other aid groups as costly, dangerous and insufficient. Death toll surpasses 60,000 Meanwhile, the health ministry in Gaza said on Tuesday that more than 60,000 Palestinians have been killed in the territory since Israels war on Hamas began nearly two years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ministry reported that 113 people were killed in the past 24 hours, bringing the death toll to 60,034. The announcement comes as hopes dim for a ceasefire anytime soon, after talks broke up last week without an agreement. The war began after Hamas October 7, 2023 attack on Israel killed around 1,200 people and saw another roughly 250 people taken hostage. Authorities in Gaza do not distinguish between civilians and Hamas fighters when reporting casualty figures, but the health ministry and the UN say the majority of deaths are women and children. And the true toll could be much higher, with many thousands still believed to be buried under rubble. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel does not dispute that a significant number of Palestinian civilians have been killed in its war in Gaza. But it has long argued that figures from the Hamas-controlled health ministry are exaggerated, and that Hamas embeds itself between civilians, using them as human shields. On Monday, a pair of leading Israeli human rights groups accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, becoming the first such organizations to make the claim. BTselem said it came to that unequivocal conclusion after an examination of Israels policy in the Gaza Strip and its horrific outcomes, together with statements by senior Israeli politicians and military commanders about the goals of the attack. A second Israeli group, Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI), announced it was joining BTselem in calling Israels actions in Gaza genocide. It published a separate legal and medical analysis documenting what it called deliberate and systematic extermination of the health system in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli government spokesman David Mencer dismissed the report. We have free speech in this country but we strongly reject this claim, he told reporters, adding that Israel has allowed aid into Gaza. CNNs Eyad Kourdi, DJ Judd and Ivana Kottasova contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Harold Terens, a World War II veteran who repaired airplanes returning from France on D-Day, recently marked his 100th birthday with family in Highland Beach, Palm Beach County. Alongside celebrating his 100th birthday, Terens also married, making the occasion even more special with 35 family members in attendance. Terens, who significantly contributed to the war effort by repairing aircraft during a critical historical moment, has led a life filled with extraordinary accomplishments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Next year, Terens intends to realize a lifelong dream by holding a Bar Mitzvah ceremony at the Pentagon, an event he was unable to attend during his childhood. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. KANSAS CITY, Kan. Wyandotte County Sheriff Deputy Elijah Ming was killed Saturday as he and a Kansas City, Kansas police officer arrived to stand by as a woman attempted to move out of a Kansas City Kansas home she was living in with Shawn Harris. Advocates for domestic violence victims say that scenario can be a particularly dangerous time when emotions are running high. Man faces capital murder charge in deadly shooting of Wyandotte County deputy The Kansas City metro has already eclipsed last years number of homicides linked to domestic violence. Hope Houses CEO says they happen most often right before or after someone tries to leave an abusive relationship, or sometimes during them moving out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reason for that is domestic violence is about power and control away from someone then the efforts to get it back escalate. Thats when we see more violence more homicides or attempted homicides, Mary Anne Metheny said. The woman called for law enforcement backup after she said Shawn Harris threatened her and friends with a gun when she tried to move items out of the home previously. Ming was shot and killed as he and another KCK police officer approached the front door. Despite the tragic outcome, Friends of Yates Executive Director Dr. Desmond Lamb Sr. said domestic violence victims should never fear calling for help. Absolutely the call must be made, theres no other alternative. When your life is in danger, your childrens life is in danger, you have to make the call, Lamb said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It just reiterates how dangerous these situations are and how you just dont know whats going to happen, Metheny said. Its why advocates say its important to work out a safety plan, which may involve leaving or retrieving items when the person in the relationship you are trying to end isnt home. But agencies remind victims there are resources to provide safe shelter and starting over to replace any items left behind. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android We want you to get out with your life. So if your packing a suitcase is giving your violator time, dont worry about that suitcase, dont worry about them clothes. You grab your kids or your self and get out, Lamb said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a local hotline domestic violence victims can call for information and next steps. Its 816-HOTLINE. If you are a victim of domestic violence, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. Those with hearing impairments can contact 1-800-787-3224. Missouri residents can find local shelters and domestic violence resources on the Kansas City Missouri Police Departments website. Kansas and Missouri residents can find additional resources here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. HARTFORD, Conn. (WTHN) A Southbury man was sentenced on Tuesday to 16 months in federal prison for tampering with and stealing Lorazepam vials at the hospital where he was employed as a nurse. Stamford-area large-scale fentanyl distributor sentenced to more than 6 years in federal prison According to court documents, 39-year-old Sean Falzarano was employed at Yale New Haven Hospital when employees found evidence that he had been tampering with Lorazepam vials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Documents state that Falzarano took vials containing Lorazepam on Jan. 31, 2022 that were intended for patients. He allegedly removed a portion of the Lorazepam from at least one of the vials and refilled it with an inert solution, then returned it to the secure location where it was available for distribution to patients. Ansonia man sentenced to 11 years for narcotics trafficking Falzarano was soon confronted, and a search of Falzaranos backpack revealed vials, crimping tools, saline, vial caps and syringes. Falzarano pleaded guilty to the following charges on Dec. 11, 2024: Tampering with a consumer product Acquiring a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception or subterfuge Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was released on a $50,000 bond and required to report to prison on Oct. 21. Falzaranos nursing license is currently suspended. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has ordered all national referral hospitals to carry out comprehensive security audits and implement urgent corrective measures. The directive follows the recent systems failure at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), which led to the tragic death of Edward Maingi Ndegwa. Speaking to journalists at KNH on Monday, Duale condemned the incident as deeply troubling and unacceptable. He offered heartfelt condolences to Ndegwas family, acknowledging the pain and frustration the loss had caused. Duale admitted that the tragedy had exposed serious flaws in hospital systems and pledged swift action to restore public trust in the healthcare sector. He said the government was taking steps to fix critical gaps in safety and accountability across the countrys public health facilities. What happened at Kenyatta is unacceptable. That shows a system failure. I must address a humanitarian crisis, he said. Duale said the government would enhance security and accountability within hospital premises, starting with expanded CCTV coverage in sensitive areas. We are also rolling out a nationwide quality assurance protocol that includes regular patient safety rounds, stronger complaint escalation systems, anonymous feedback tools, and ongoing staff training on patient rights and safety, the CS aanounced. To boost transparency and tighten hospital access protocols, Duale also announced the installation of anonymous call monitoring systems, stricter visitor control, and mandatory identity verification for all individuals bringing patients to hospitals, police officers included. Effective immediately, all referral hospitals will enforce tighter security measures: a two-visitor limit per patient and mandatory screening at entry points, Duale said. We will ask all persons, including police who bring in sick patients, to leave behind information, including vehicle number plate and ID, he said. We aim to have anonymous calls in hospitals for security purposes. 443 Abandoned Patients CS Duale at the same time sounded the alarm over a growing crisis in public hospitals: hundreds of patients remain admitted long after discharge due to abandonment or financial hardship. Some 443 patients are still in hospitals; some have no family to return to, while others face financial challenges, Duale revealed. There are many abandoned patients in our hospitals. We ask Kenyans to step in and help us address these alarming issues. To tackle the situation, the Ministry of Health has deployed a rapid response team to trace families and provide support to patients who have nowhere else to go. We are working to ensure we have a society that is compassionate enough to accept their kin back, said Duale. The 443 abandoned patients will be reconnected to their loved ones. The Health Minister urged Kenyans to rally behind the governments sweeping hospital reforms, calling for patience and public support as the Ministry of Health works to restore trust in the countrys healthcare system. We understand that there is low confidence in our hospitals, but we urge you to be patient with us as we restore dignity, Duale said during a press briefing. We still commit to protect the life and dignity of all patients. Duale assured the public that the reforms, which include enhanced security, improved surveillance, and stricter protocols for admitting patients, will be implemented in all hospitals nationwide. President Donald Trump on Monday denied ever visiting a private island belonging to late sex offender and his former friend Jeffrey Epstein. But Trumps critics are focusing on two unusual words he used when describing a potential trip to the infamous island: the privilege. Trump was asked about why he kicked Epstein out of his private club some two decades ago, after the two had a falling out and before Epsteins first conviction in 2008. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president called it such old history and said Epstein did something that was inappropriate. The inappropriate behavior was hiring some of Trumps staff. He stole people that work for me, Trump said. I said, Dont ever do that again. He did it again, and I threw him out of the place. Person non grata. I threw him out, and that was it. Im glad I did. But then he added unprompted that he never visited Little Saint James, Epsteins private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands and one alleged scene in his child sex trafficking operation. And by the way, I never went to the island, Trump said, while accusing others of doing so. Ive, I never had the privilege of going to his island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The island is just one of the homes owned by Epstein; many of the abuse allegations the late financier was charged with took place in Palm Beach, Florida, as The Miami Herald reported in 2018. Authorities suspect that he molested hundreds of girls over a five- or six-year period in Palm Beach alone and possibly operated an international sex-trafficking organization around the world, Miami Herald reporter Julie K. Brown told NPR. And it was the presidents two words about the island that drew criticism on social media, with many shocked he would refer to the privilege of visiting it while denying he had done so: They're calling it the most well handled freudian slip in history https://t.co/DKX5X4dGYZ Isaac (@GalaxyPeaBrain) July 28, 2025 I never had the privilege of going to Epstein Island. - Trump Yikes man. pic.twitter.com/f2ZfNlCJva Spencer Hakimian (@SpencerHakimian) July 28, 2025 top 3 freudian slip in history? https://t.co/rIs74HtJyY brandon* (@brndxix) July 28, 2025 Let's get Trump's position on Epstein straight: > Going to the sex-trafficking island would have been a "privilege." > The REAL crime Epstein committed was poaching his employees. The man is a monster and a moron. pic.twitter.com/9j6fVlocil Adam Mockler (@adammocklerr) July 28, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im so tired, dude. If a serial killer Freudian slipped up like this during an FBI interview, theyd call it a confession. He can literally just say whatever he wants, and there will never ever ever ever be consequences. This is fucked up and weird, and nothing will happen. https://t.co/rMgG9kyXY0 Scarlet Whit (@WhitneyPuppy) July 28, 2025 In this clip, Donald Trump says he never had the privilege of going to Epstein Island. NEVER HAD THE PRIVILEGE? WHAT? pic.twitter.com/k0DiAuwPaF Lucas Sanders (@LucasSa56947288) July 28, 2025 Today Trump said I never had the privilege of going to [Epsteins] island. So now everyone should be looking into if/when Trump went to the island. Also, can we all agree that the way Trump said this was beyond disturbing? Dont forget to subscribe: https://t.co/73TxSisDsLpic.twitter.com/vMkTEGzWGG Scott Dworkin (@funder) July 29, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We live in a world where the sitting president can say I never had the PRIVILEGE of going to the evil ass pedophile super rape island and nobody bats an eye https://t.co/L2RIGOUz7f Wemby Central (@WembyCentral) July 28, 2025 I never had the privilege of going to the island and I turned it down are in direct conflict. Incredible that these are sentences come one after the other. Also, not sure Id call going to an island where crimes against children took place a privilege https://t.co/nlK1iGst9f Brandon Richards (@BrandonRichards) July 28, 2025 Trump on Epstein: I never went to the island. I never had the privilege of going to the island. I turned it down. Privilege? pic.twitter.com/lPZ3RFK2el Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) July 28, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By Ruma Paul DHAKA (Reuters) -The New York police officer killed in a mass shooting in a Manhattan skyscraper on Monday was an immigrant who left behind a pregnant wife, two young sons and distraught parents, while friends and officials in Bangladesh and the United States described him as a hero. A gunman opened fire on Monday inside a midtown office tower, killing four people, including Officer Didarul Islam, 36, before fatally shooting himself, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A second victim was described by his union president as a dedicated security guard and, according to the New York Times, was a member of an immigrant family from Haiti. Aland Etienne, who was working in the lobby of the building at the time of the shooting, was also described as a "New York hero." Syed Tanjib Mujib, a childhood friend of Islam from their home district in the South Asian nation of Bangladesh, said Islam left for the U.S. with his parents and other family members in 2009. "And the way he died, its heartbreaking, but not surprising. Thats just the kind of person he was," he said. "Always thinking of others, always ready to help. He died trying to save lives ... Our hearts are broken, but were proud of him. Hell always be remembered. Excluding Islam, 42 federal, state, county, municipal, military, and U.S. territories officers have died in the line of duty in the first half of 2025, according to preliminary data from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York Mayor Eric Adams, who met the officer's family on Monday night, also described the 3-1/2-year veteran of the police department as a hero. "He was saving lives, he was protecting New Yorkers," Adams told reporters. "He loved this city, and everyone we spoke with stated he was a person of faith and a person that believed in God." Islam was married, had two young sons, and his wife is pregnant, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch told reporters. "He put himself in harm's way. He made the ultimate sacrifice shot in cold blood," she said. Islam was working on a paid security detail in the building when the shooting occurred, the commissioner added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mizanul Haque, a cousin of Islam, speaking to Reuters from the district of Moulvibazar in Bangladesh, said that Islam visited Bangladesh last year in February with his wife and their two boys, aged 7 and 5, and attended his wedding. Haque said that Islam's father suffered a stroke after hearing the news, and said that his mother has not said a word since learning of his death. "I have no idea how to console them," he said. "What do you even say to a family thats been shattered like this? All I can hope for now is justice. He didnt deserve to die like this. 'DEDICATED' GUARD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This tragedy speaks to the sacrifice of security officers who risk their lives every day to keep New Yorkers and our buildings safe," Manny Pastereich, president of 32BJ SEIU union, said in a statement. "Aland Etienne is a New York hero. We will remember him as such." Etienne's brother posted a tribute to the slain security guard on his Facebook page. "My family suffered a heartbreaking tragedy," Gathmand Etienne wrote. "He was more than a brother - he was a father, a son and a light in our eyes." The New York Times reported on Tuesday that Etiennes family was from Haiti, and that he was the father of two school-aged children. Reuters could not immediately confirm that reporting, and calls to phone numbers associated with his relatives were not answered. (Reporting by Ruma Paul in Dhaka; Additional reporting by Kanshka Singh in Washington, Rich McKay in Atlanta and Helen Coster in New York; Editing by Donna Bryson, Frank McGurty, Nick Zieminski and Matthew Lewis) PROVO, Utah (ABC4) Have you ever thought your parents favored one of your siblings? You may be right. A study conducted by Alex Jensen, a professor at Brigham Young University, found that younger siblings generally receive favorable treatment from their parents. The same study also found that older siblings are frequently granted more autonomy than their younger siblings. New research from BYU highlights how subtle parental preferencesbased on birth order, personality, and gendercan shape sibling relationships and family dynamics. (Courtesy/Jarvis Kelson, BYU) Jensens research included data from almost 19,500 people that examined how parental preferences manifest themselves while also exploring how such preferences could influence children throughout their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most parents probably connect more easily with one child over another, whether that be due to personality, birth order, gender or other things like shared interests, Jensen said. BYU study examines toxic perfectionism in the LDS church Jensens research also shows that children who feel less favored by their parents are more likely to experience poor mental health as well as engage in what he calls problematic behavior. Were not suggesting parents feel guilty; instead, parents can look at this research and use it as encouragement to look at places where they can improve, without going to extremes, Jensen said of his research. Sometimes parents get so concerned about treating their kids the same that they may overlook individual needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The research also found that parents reported favoring daughters. However, children who are agreeable and responsible, regardless of their gender or birth order, often receive favorable treatment as well. The study was recently published in the peer-reviewed journal, Psychological Bulletin. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) The City of Youngstown invites residents, business owners and community stakeholders to its meeting on Monday, August 4, at 5 p.m. The meeting will provide a closer look at Mill Creek Parks Interceptor Sewer Improvement Project, including progress, upcoming construction schedule and anticipated community impact. A news release from the citys Department of Public Works states that the project is a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing the citys waste management system, improving environmental outcomes and supporting future growth and development. City officials and project engineers will be present to answer questions and discuss what to expect from the projects next steps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event takes place August 4 from 5-7 p.m. in the Covelli Centres Community Room at 229 E. Front Street in Youngstown. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Jul. 28Youth hunters are eligible to purchase an antlerless Youth Encouragement Elk License with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish starting 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 29. Youth Encouragement Elk hunts were created to provide additional opportunities for youth hunters. Of the 1,960 available licenses, 1,570 will be for any legal sporting arm and 390 for muzzleloader hunts. The first 14 days of license sales are only open to resident youth who have applied in the current license year for one or more draw hunts for deer, elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, Barbary sheep, oryx or ibex, and were not successful for any hunt. The purchase of a leftover draw hunt does not count as a successful application. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 10 a.m. Aug. 12, the sale will open to any youth hunter eligible to purchase an elk license. Youth hunters applying for the licenses must have a valid Hunter Education certification, must have a current 2025-2026 Game Hunting or Game Hunting and Fishing license, and must be age 17 or younger on the day of the hunt. To apply or for more information, visit wildlife.dgf.nm.gov. Indiana public schools have reported an estimated 44% increase in homeless students from the 2020-21 to the 2023-24 school years. This mirrors a national trend, with youth homelessness rising by an estimated 32% across the United States. Much of our data originates from the Department of Education, which under the McKinney-Vento Act of 1987, defines homeless children as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. Breaking the cycle of chronic homelessness, community leaders and advocates say, must start by supporting youths who don't have a place to call home. Without early intervention, the trauma of being homeless both physical and emotional can leave lasting scars on individuals and ripple effects throughout our communities. It was nightmarish, Victor Hutchinson of Indianapolis said of his childhood spent bouncing between homeless shelters and staying with friends alongside his mother. Now 24, Hutchinson is a participant in Outreach Indiana a local nonprofit working to equip and empower young Hoosiers between the ages 1424 experiencing homelessness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For many Hoosiers, youth homelessness is an invisible issue. Its often hidden, undocumented, and underreported. And it looks very different from adult homelessness. Homeless youth may sleep on the street one night and on a friends couch the next. This kind of intermittent homelessness makes it harder for them to qualify for state assistance programs, which often prioritize chronically homeless adults. How many homeless kids does Indiana have? The IndyStar estimates there were 22,114 homeless students (Pre K-12) in Indiana during the 2023-24 school year. The most recent count represents a 44% increase from the five-year low of 15,373 in 2020-21 school year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of Indiana's homeless students, 28% of lived in Marion County in the 2022-23 school year, according to SchoolHouse Connection and Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan What are the leading causes of youth homelessness? Youth homelessness is fueled by a range of factors, including family breakdowns, forced evictions, and cultural beliefs that turning 18 marks the end of parental responsibility, often forcing young adults out of their homes. I always felt like I was on the journey by myself, because we didnt have adults around us who could give us proper guidance, they didnt know what to do," said Trinity Hopkins, a 24-year-old local author and current Outreach participant. "So how could I expect them to teach me? How does homelessness affect academic performance? Homeless students consistently fall behind their housed peers in academic performance. For example, only 57% of homeless students were proficient in third-grade early literacy assessments, according to the Brightlane Learning Homeless Education 2024 Report. That compares to an 82% proficiency rate among housed students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Third-Grade Literacy Assessments: New Indiana IREAD law sparks parent concern as student retention set to rise Several factors contribute to this gap: Lack of quality sleep, which is essential for a childs development and learning. Higher rates of serious health issues, such as asthma, which affect nearly twice as many homeless students compared to their housed peers. Food insecurity, with homeless students having reduced access to nutritious meals and being twice as likely to skip breakfast. How does summer break affect homeless kids? A graffiti style mural created by a previous youth client experiencing homelessness decorates Outreach (2416 E New York Street) on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, in Indianapolis. Food insecurity is further exacerbated during the summer months, as many students rely on school for guaranteed meals like breakfast and lunch, said Barbara Duffield, Executive Director of SchoolHouse Connection, a national nonprofit focused on ending homelessness through education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loss of safety and structure: According to the Department of Education, nearly 80% of homeless students are doubled up, meaning they share housing with others due to economic hardship. Constant movement makes it difficult to maintain stability. Missed learning opportunities: Homeless students often miss out on summer enrichment programs, especially when they move between school districts. College students face renewed homelessness: Many campuses close dorms during summer, leaving unhoused students without shelter. They come back to Indy, for example, and they are homeless again, said Andrew Neal. Indiana youth homelessness by county Who is most affected by youth homelessness? Statewide data reveals a troubling racial disparity: According to SchoolHouse Connection and Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan, Black or African American students made up 31% of homeless students in Indiana (2022-23), despite representing only 11% of the overall student population. This overrepresentation reflects broader systemic inequities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement African Americans are disproportionately affected across all categories of homelessness in Indiana, highlighting the urgent need to address racial bias and structural barriers in housing, education, and social services. What percentage of Indiana kids live in poverty? How do we end youth homelessness? Allow minors to apply for health insurance independently, such as Medicaid, without requiring parental consent. Eliminate racial disparities in housing, including discriminatory evictions, loan denials, and high housing costs. Volunteers, staff and youth experiencing homelessness meet at the Outreach location on the east side (2416 E New York Street) on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, in Indianapolis. Outreach works to help stabilize youth experiencing homelessness allowing them to work toward goals and change their lives. Repeal laws that criminalize homelessness, shifting the focus from punishment to support. Intervene early in a young persons housing crisis to prevent long-term or chronic homelessness in adulthood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Public Policy Institute at Indiana University emphasizes that to curb the rise in youth homelessness, the state must strengthen programming for unhoused youth. This includes allowing unaccompanied minors to access healthcare, addressing racial inequities in housing, and, most urgently, ending the criminalization of homelessness. Currently, laws in Indiana make it illegal for people without homes to do basic things like sleep outside, sit in public spaces, stay in their cars, or ask for help. These laws can result in tickets, fines, or even arrests punishments that only deepen the struggles of young people trying to survive. If we got rid of these laws, homeless youth could rest safely, get the help they need, and look for jobs without worrying about getting in trouble for trying to survive. Why you should care Beyond the human cost, criminalizing homelessness is also financially inefficient. A national study found that placing a homeless youth in the criminal justice system for one-year costs $53,665, compared to just $5,887 to permanently move that same youth off the streets. The Indiana University Policy Institute found between 2021 and 2023, Indianas corrections spending nearly doubled, from $849 million to an estimated $1.7 billion. What are other cities doing? Other cities have found success with more compassionate approaches. In 2015, Milwaukee County launched a Housing First Initiative, providing housing without preconditions. The results were dramatic: municipal violations dropped by 82%, and the homeless population fell from 1,521 to 900. Trinity Hopkins is photographed at the Outreach location on the east side (2416 E New York Street) on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, in Indianapolis. If we truly want to address street homelessness, we need to focus more on upstream factors, cutting it off at the source, when a young person first becomes unhoused, said Neal of Outreach Indiana. "The longer a youth remains on the streets, the more trauma they experience and the more likely they are to face long-term, chronic homelessness. How is Outreach Indiana impacting homeless youth? Fortunately, organizations like Outreach Indiana are already doing the groundwork, offering essentials like fresh clothes, hot meals, showers, and a safe, welcoming space for youth in need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I feel like this is a safe home for me and I come here every chance I get. I wish they had housing because I would literally live here. You can tell they put love into it. Even if its a bad day, you wouldnt know, said Trinity Hopkins. But Outreach goes beyond the basics. They help youth build futures. If you need anything literally anything theyre willing to help. They paid for my for-hire exam so I could start driving commercial vehicles (CDL), said Victor Hutchinson, who recently started working at a moving company with Outreachs support. Pacers center Myles Turner meets with a young boy at Outreach Indiana on Indianapolis East Side His advice to other young people facing homelessness is simple but powerful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It takes a lot of patience, so just endure. Endure all of it," Hutchinson said. "Because you know, within time, something will come up. Something will get better. Are you a young person in need? Outreach Youth Hotline: (317) 699-1994 Stopover 24-Hour Crisis Line: (317) 635-9301 This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Youth homelessness is rising in the US and Indiana: Here are the stats ZACHARY, La. (Louisiana First) People in Zachary will soon see some major upgrades to the Rouses Market and the retail center it calls home. Rouse Land Company recently bought that retail center near Church Street and Old Scenic Highway for about $2 million. Rouses District Manager Kyle Zito said customer satisfaction played a big role in why his company bought this entire shopping center. Its one of my better locations, from a sales perspective, Zito mentioned. Weve heard a lot of feedback from the actual community. Theyve been asking us to get a handle on things down here, so we really listened, and it led to us purchasing the property. Zito said the shopping center and grocery store need several improvements, and the roughly 12-acre shopping plaza was purchased from an out-of-state owner. At this time, right now, were in the early stages, obviously, we bought it two weeks ago. Were working on bidding, permitting, and hiring architects for the design. Were still in the early phase. It will probably be six months before we see any real work being done. Well be working on getting new facades, new HVAC systems, and overall, to put it back to the standards that we expect, and as Rouses, we try to establish, Zito declared. The shopping center is currently home to an Anytime Fitness, which Zito said is the only other current development there outside of the Rouses grocery store. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This Rouses store also houses a fully connected Ace Hardware, and several other former office suites in the plaza are currently sitting empty. Zito said the real estate division of his company will be tasked with trying to find different tenants for the property. Latest News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. By Lucy Craymer and Alasdair Pal WELLINGTON (Reuters) -The New Zealand government on Tuesday introduced a law that will prevent people from enrolling to vote on election day and bar prisoners from casting their ballot while in jail, in a move critics say could reduce voter participation. The proposed law, which passed its first of three readings in parliament on Tuesday, will allow people to enrol to vote only up to 13 days before an election. Currently potential voters can enrol up to and on election day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law will also ban all prisoners from voting and require voting to open 12 days ahead of the official election day. This bill overhauls a number of outdated and unsustainable electoral laws. The package of amendments will strengthen the system, helping to deliver timely election results, manage the costs, clarify rules and provide more efficient services to voters," said Minister of Justice Paul Goldsmith, who proposed the bill. However, a report by Attorney General Judith Collins concluded that the bill appears to be inconsistent with the countrys Bill of Rights, including the right to freedom of expression and the right to vote. The changes are, in part, prompted by delays in results at the 2023 election, when it took nearly three weeks before an official result was released due to the high number of special votes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Special votes are cast by New Zealanders living or travelling overseas, voting outside their constituency or newly enrolled. The Attorney Generals report, which was released publicly on Friday, said in the last election special votes included over 97,000 people who registered for the first time during the voting period, and nearly 134,000 people who changed electoral districts during the voting period. This gives some indication of the number of people who may be affected, said Collins, who is a member of the ruling party. Duncan Webb, a lawmaker from the opposition Labour Party opposing the bill, on Tuesday called it "a dark day for democracy". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Politicians should be making it easier for people to vote, not harder. It's how we make sure that everybody's voice is heard, that everyone gets a say, he said. (Reporting by Lucy Craymer; Editing by Lincoln Feast) President Volodymyr Zelensky said on July 29 he had discussed with the Canadian and Danish prime ministers a bill seeking to restore the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies. Zelensky's talks with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen followed the passage on July 22 of a law that effectively destroyed the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). Critics, including civil society groups and Western partners, said the measure undermined the agencies' independence and jeopardized Ukraine's EU accession process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law sparked the first large-scale protests in Ukraine during the full-scale invasion, prompting Zelensky to back down and submit a new bill to restore the agencies' independence. The new bill is expected to be considered by parliament on July 31. Zelensky said that the Danish and Canadian leaders had expressed support for the new bill and agreed on the urgent need for the Ukrainian parliament to vote on it this week. "I'm grateful to Denmark for its support. We agreed that the parliament must vote on this bill without delay already this week," Zelensky said after his call with Frederiksen. He added that Ukraine must "make the most" of Denmark's presidency in the EU Council to advance on European integration. In a separate conversation with Carney, Zelensky said the leaders agreed on the importance of securing parliament's approval of the new legislation on July 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Mark and I share the same view: it is now essential that the Verkhovna Rada (Ukraine's parliament) adopt this bill in full on July 31," Zelensky said. Zelensky also thanked Carney for Canada's continued military and financial assistance, and said they discussed Ukraine's defense needs including enhanced air defense and co-production of drones, especially interceptors. Zelensky previously acknowledged that the law restricting the agencies' independence had lacked proper public consultation. "Probably, there should have been a dialogue," he said on July 24. "Communication is always necessary." He said the updated bill includes provisions to protect anti-corruption agencies from Russian influence, including mandatory polygraph testing for employees every two years. Read also: Why Ukraine cant afford to demobilize its soldiers Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday that his country was close to reaching a financing agreement with the Netherlands for drone production in Ukraine. In his evening address to the nation, Zelensky said he expected the agreement to be completed this week. "An additional 400 million [$460 million] for our Ukrainian companies, for our Ukrainian drone manufacturers will land in the accounts of Ukrainian producers this week," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine is currently expanding its own drone production with Western financial aid in order to boost its defence against Russia. Zelensky recalled several deadly Russian attacks that had taken place during the day, the most serious of which was on a prison near the front-line city of Zaporizhzhya. At least 17 inmates were killed in the airstrike and another 42 prisoners injured, Zaporizhzhya regional governor Ivan Fedorov said on Telegram. The health of Kennedy Kalombotole, the prime suspect in the killing of two patients at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), is deteriorating rapidly, his lawyer Philip Maiyo has revealed. Maiyo claims that Mbagathi Hospital has repeatedly refused to admit Kalombotole, despite a valid court order directing his admission. Instead, the hospital has allegedly issued inconclusive test results and failed to provide a comprehensive medical report. On Saturday at around 8 p.m., Kalombotole collapsed and began convulsing at the hospital. Yet even in that critical condition, they still refused to admit him, Maiyo said as quoted by the Daily Nation on Monday. He explained that on Friday, doctors at Mbagathi evaluated Kalombotole and declared him unfit for admission, citing unspecified test results. However, the hospital did not produce a formal doctors report, even though several physicians had examined the patient. The court order is clear, Maiyo said. But despite this, the hospital has refused to comply. On Saturday, we pressed again for admission, but the officer in charge declined. According to the lawyer, the hospitals Medical Superintendent also refused to authorize admission, even after being contacted by phone and made aware of the severity of Kalombotoles medical episode. The superintendent reportedly maintained that Kalombotole did not meet the criteria for inpatient care. Maiyo further accused hospital administrators of ignoring recommendations from attending doctors who advised immediate admission. Instead, the administration insisted on treating Kalombotole in the casualty unit before discharging him, a move Maiyo described as a direct violation of the courts directive. RELATED Court Seeks Suspects Medical Records in Shocking KNH Patient Killings Case They claim their medical opinion overrides a court order. This is not only incorrect but also dangerous, he said. Kalombotole remains under armed police guard in the hospitals casualty ward. According to Maiyo, police officers refused to return him to custody, fearing he might die under their supervision. Maiyo also dismissed claims made by the Mbagathi Hospital CEO during a local TV interview that Kalombotole had been admitted. He is not admitted, Maiyo insisted. Staff at the casualty insist he should leave. He remains there solely because the police will not take him back. The lawyer accused Mbagathi Hospital of prioritizing its reputation over medical ethics, warning that the facility is denying Kalombotole his constitutional right to healthcare under Article 43. Kalombotole remains innocent until proven guilty. He has not been formally charged and deserves to be treated like any other Kenyan, Maiyo said. He argued that if the hospital disagreed with the court order, it should first comply and then apply to have it reviewed. If the hospital disagrees with the court order, they should apply for it to be varied but only after complying, he argued. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney have discussed the draft law that aims to reinforce the independence of Ukrainian anti-corruption agencies. Source: Office of the President, as reported by European Pravda Details: Carney expressed support for the presidential draft law, which "guarantees the independence and effectiveness of Ukraines anti-corruption institutions and prevents any interference or influence by Russia on their work." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carney and Zelenskyy also underscored the importance of the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) adopting the draft law in full on 31 July. In addition, Zelenskyy outlined the current defence needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The leaders discussed bolstering air defence with extra systems and missiles, as well as ramping up funding for joint drone production, particularly interceptors. Special focus was placed on the need to exert pressure on Russia, primarily through sanctions. Zelenskyy and Carney also reviewed the outcomes of the Ukrainian delegations meeting with the Russian side, held last week in Istanbul. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Silence is no longer an option: the West must rethink its Ukraine policy Background: On 25 July, Verkhovna Rada Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk announced that the president's draft law to restore the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) would be considered on 31 July. Following the adoption of a law that places these agencies under the control of the Prosecutor General, the EU reportedly issued a diplomatic warning to Kyiv of possible consequences should parliament fail to repeal the relevant provisions of draft law No 12414. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy, ahead of the upcoming vote, assured Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen that Ukraine is striving to open the first negotiating cluster for EU accession. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has discussed Thursdays upcoming vote on draft laws to restore the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) with representatives of the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian parliament) and the government. Source: Zelenskyys evening address on 29 July Quote: "We spoke with Mette Frederiksen, the Prime Minister of Denmark, and Mark Carney, the Prime Minister of Canada, about my bill that guarantees the proper functioning of the anti-corruption infrastructure and other law enforcement bodies. It is crucial that this law be adopted on Thursday all our partners support it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And today we discussed it with representatives of the Verkhovna Rada and government officials the result must be ensured." Background: The Verkhovna Rada has had several draft laws on the restoration of NABU and SAPOs independence. Zelenskyy submitted his bill after a large-scale protest began gathering outside the Presidents Office. On 25 July, Verkhovna Rada Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk announced that the president's draft law to restore the independence of NABU and SAPO would be considered on 31 July. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! On 29 July, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a law that allows Ukrainian citizens aged 60 and older to serve in the military under contract. Source: a bill tracking card Details: The law stipulates that during martial law, citizens aged 60 and above may be accepted for military service under contract with the written consent of a unit commander, provided they are deemed fit by a military medical commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These servicemembers will be allowed to hold non-combat positions, including roles among privates, sergeants and senior officers, as well as junior and senior commissioned officers. Contracts for individuals aged 60 and over will be signed for one year with the possibility of extension. Officer candidates in this age group must receive approval from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This category of contract holds that servicemembers will be subjected to a two-month probation period. If they are found unfit during this time, the contract will be terminated. If martial law is lifted or revoked, all such contracts will automatically become void. Background: On 16 July, Ukraine's Parliament passed a law allowing citizens over 60 to voluntarily sign contracts with Ukraines defence forces. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! ST. LOUIS Almost three months after the Saint Louis Zoo welcomed five baby cheetah cubs, their names have been announced. The zoo took to social media on July 23 to share an updated video of the growing cheetahs, noting that the five have earned their Rebel names. As the cubs were born one day after May 4, a day famously known as May the Fourth be with you, each one has a name inspired by the Ewok heroes of Endor, according to the Saint Louis Zoo. Even their parents, Cora and Vader, were named after the franchise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their names are: Asha Bozzie Chirpa Malani Wicket The zoo said the quintuplets are still adapting, or completing their Jedi training, but the public will be able to see them in Rivers Edge later this year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. On his first day back in the White House, President Trump issued an executive order attempting to revoke birthright citizenship. Since then, the most important question has been whether he would be able to follow through with that pledge. So far, courts have repeatedly found that Trump does not have the power to unilaterally nullify a constitutional right, which has automatically granted anyone born in the United States citizenship regardless of their parents circumstances for more than 150 years. The final say will likely come from the Supreme Court, which gave Trump an important procedural win last month but has yet to weigh in on his authority to revoke birthright citizenship. Another critical question that has lingered for the past seven months is who it would apply to. Trumps order established broad categories for the types of immigrants whose children would not be granted birthright citizenship. What it didnt provide was specifics on which types of immigrants would fit into those categories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) quietly published a memo to its website outlining those long-awaited details. Trumps original order outlined two sets of circumstances in which a child would not be granted citizenship: 1. The mother is unlawfully present in the U.S. and the father isnt a citizen or permanent resident. 2. The mothers presence in the U.S. is lawful but temporary and the father isnt a citizen or permanent resident. That first category is straightforward. The children of mothers who are not in the U.S. legally would not be granted citizenship. That second category, though, hinges on the definition of lawful but temporary, which was not included in the original order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. immigration system is incredibly complex. There are dozens of different types of visas, statuses and other mechanisms that can allow someone to come and stay here. The most important thing the new memo does is define lawful but temporary for the first time. Under the updated guidelines, lawful but temporary status will include immigrants who are here legally but whose presence in the U.S. is time limited, for duration of status, or otherwise not perpetual. It also includes a list that this definition will apply to. According to the new rules, birthright citizenship would not be granted to the children of mothers who have: Entered the U.S. for tourism, business, medical care or temporary work. Been granted a stay of removal because their life, freedom or safety would be threatened in their home country. Filed to voluntarily leave the U.S., but have not left yet. Received legal status through programs for certain relatives of immigrants who became legalized aliens. Received a visa through programs for victims of human trafficking and certain other crimes. Been granted Temporary Protected Status (e.g., Haitian migrants), deferred removal (i.e., DACA recipients) or parole for "urgent humanitarian or significant public benefit reasons. Cumulatively, these categories mean that the vast majority of legal immigrants will not pass on citizenship if they have children in the U.S. However, there are some important groups that would not be considered lawful but temporary whose children would be granted citizenship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They include: Permanent residents Asylum recipients Refugees U.S. nationals who are noncitizens (e.g., people from American Samoa) Certain Native Americans who were born in Canada The memo adds that although the children of people with lawful but temporary status would not be citizens, the governments policy will be designed to protect those children from any negative immigration consequence as a result of being born without an official legal right to be in the U.S. Specifics of what that might mean, most importantly whether noncitizen children born in the U.S. would be subject to deportation or how their parents might apply for legal status, were not provided. All of these new details only matter if the courts give the Trump administration the power to put Trumps plan to revoke birthright citizenship into action, but they provide important clarification on how things would work if the policy ever does take effect. In February, South Sudanese President Salva Kiir abruptly dismissed two of the countrys five vice presidents, and the following month, Vice President Riek MacharKiirs longtime rivalwas detained and placed under house arrest, where he has remained since then. The developments in Juba bear troubling similarities to the political dynamics that precipitated the countrys civil war from 2013 to 2018. Combined with renewed military confrontations between the countrys military and various armed groups, they suggest that the fragile peace established in 2018 may be unraveling. While conflict is not inevitable, the convergence of familiar patternsincluding the erosion of power-sharing arrangements, military fragmentation and succession dynamicshas significantly increased the risk of renewed violence. Deja Vu To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The current crisis follows a disturbingly familiar script. Back in July 2013, when both men held the same offices they do now, Kiir similarly dismissed Machar along with the rest of his Cabinet in a bid to consolidate power, deepening ethnic and political divisions within the ruling Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement, SPLM, and the military. Political power-sharing arrangements continued to fray throughout 2013, culminating in a tense SPLM National Liberation Council meeting in mid-December partially boycotted by several ousted former insiders. Kiir subsequently ordered ethnic Nuer soldiers in the Presidential Guard to be disarmed, which sparked ethnic clashes in the capital and ignited conflict in many parts of the country. The ensuing civil war fractured South Sudan along ethnic lines, with Kiirs predominantly Dinka-backed government forces fighting Machars Nuer-supported opposition. As in the 1990s when Machar split with Kiirs predecessor, the late John Garang, the conflict rapidly escalated into systematic atrocities, including mass killings, sexual violence and ethnic cleansing. Fighting briefly subsided following a 2015 peace agreement that returned Machar to the vice presidency, but that deal collapsed in July 2016 amid renewed clashes in Juba that forced Machar to again flee the capital and expanded the conflict into the Equatoria region. Despite opening its bases to civilians fleeing ethnic reprisals in many parts of the country, the U.N. peacekeeping mission in the country, known by its acronym UNMISS, proved unable to act as a guarantor of security or to effectively de-escalate violence between the warring parties. By the time a mediation effort by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development regional bloc produced the agreement that ended the civil warofficially known as the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan, or R-ARCSSthe human cost of the conflict was already immense. As many as 400,000 people had been killed, with 2.5 million refugees fleeing over the countrys borders and 2 million people displaced internally. Power-sharing arrangements enshrined in the R-ARCSS have since largely kept the peace intact, although disputes over the political, military and economic dimensions of power-sharing itself have also created persistent friction among the signatories and provided fertile ground for the current crisis. Kiirs dismissals of Vice Presidents James Wani Igga and Hussein Abdelbagi Akol in February 2025 undermined the power-sharing spirit of the peace agreement, which is premised on consensus and inclusivity among the signatory parties. The following month, militias aligned with the Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement-in-Opposition, or SPLM-IOa splinter group of the ruling partycaptured a military base in Nasir, in the northeast, which prompted the South Sudan armed forces to conduct its first airstrikes since the end of the civil war. When a UNMISS helicopter that was attempting to evacuate South Sudanese security forces in early March was shot down, killing the crew members and a high-ranking South Sudanese officer, the government invoked emergency powers and detained over 40 SPLM-IO officials across multiple states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most significantly, Machar, the most senior Nuer in the government, has been under house arrest since late March, accused of fomenting unrest in Upper Nile state. UNMISS has since warned that Machars detention and Kiirs unilateral amendments to the peace agreement threaten to push the country back into a state of war, with potentially devastating consequences for the broader region. A Security Sector in Perpetual Transition South Sudans security sector remains its Achilles heel, with various factions retaining independent military capabilities. So as political power-sharing arrangements collapse, it becomes more likely that mistrust and factionalism within the military will provide the spark for wider conflict. This lack of cohesion within the military creates a dangerous feedback loop: Political disputes that might otherwise be resolved through negotiation instead trigger armed confrontations. The 2018 peace agreement mandated the creation of unified armed forces from various factional militias, which has proven more aspirational than operational. While an agreement was reached in principle on a unified command structure for what became known as the Necessary Unified Forces, or NUF, these units continue to report primarily to existing officers of the South Sudanese armed forces, officially known as the South Sudan Peoples Defense Forces, or SSPDF. This reinforces perceptions that the process represents absorption rather than genuine integration into a neutral, cohesive and nationally representative security force. The SSPDF grew out of the Sudan Peoples Liberation Army, or SPLA, which fought the 22-year civil war against Sudan that resulted in South Sudans independence in 2011. Though it remains one of the dominant security actors by default, along with the National Security Service, it continues to face severe institutional challenges. Public sector salaries, including military wages, have been up to 13 months in arrears, making the 400 percent salary increase provided for in the 2023-2024 budget largely aspirational. These conditions have pushed many soldiers into the informal economy, including arms trafficking and cattle rustling, while the military has reportedly resorted to recruiting youth to replace deserting personnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the NUF cantonment sites have deteriorated into informal encampments characterized by limited progress on training for integration into the SSPDF and plummeting morale. According to a report released in November 2023 by the U.N. Panel of Experts on South Sudan, some NUF graduates had dispersed from the sites, as they were no longer receiving rations or salaries. Instead, they established informal taxation systems and road checkpoints to provide for their needs. Plans for a second phase of training have stalled, generating mounting frustration among opposition factions, which view the delays as evidence of government bad faith. A Question of Succession Perhaps the most significant new variable in South Sudans political equation is the emergence of Benjamin Bol Mel as the heir apparent to Kiir. At 73 and reportedly in poor health, Kiir seems to be consolidating power around a designated successor as his two-decade tenure in power gradually winds down. Bol Mel has achieved a rapid ascent, starting as a presidential economic adviser before becoming one of the countrys five vice presidents and then first deputy chairman of the SPLM. That has shifted the internal dynamics of the ruling party and unsettled broader power-sharing arrangements. At 47, Bol Mel represents a generational shift from the liberation war veterans who have dominated South Sudanese politics since the formation of the independence movement in 1983. Compared to figures such as Kiir and Machar, who derive legitimacy from their roles in the decades-long struggle against Khartoum, Bol Mel lacks these revolutionary credentials that command near-mythic loyalty within certain military and political circles. His elevation to the pole position to succeed Kiirwhether as a result of mortality, a palace coup or the ballot box in repeatedly postponed elections now scheduled for December 2026introduces new uncertainties into an already tense political landscape. With the systematic erosion of power-sharing arrangements, the lack of a good-faith effort at military integration, the escalation of military confrontations and Kiirs apparent preparations for a managed succession, South Sudans political and military elite now stand at a familiar crossroads, with the continued viability of the 2018 peace agreement hanging in the balance. While the actors and circumstances have evolved since 2013, the underlying vulnerabilities persist, with succession dynamics now compounding the ethnic and factional tensions that have long defined South Sudans political landscape. Without a renewed commitment to the core principles of the 2018 peace agreement, the country risks not just reliving its past, but facing an even more destabilizing future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lesley Anne Warner specializes in security and governance issues in Africa. She is the author of Military Integration during War-to-Peace Transitions: South Sudans Attempt to Manage Armed Groups, 2006-13, which is based on fieldwork conducted in South Sudan between 2012 and 2014. You can find her personal website here. The post South Sudans Latest Crisis Is Following a Familiar Script appeared first on World Politics Review. The Rite Aid at 2519 Main St. in Union Gap, adjacent to the Valley Mall, will be converted to a CVS as of Aug. 1, according to the sign along Main Street. Former Karachuonyo MP Phoebe Asiyo will receive a State Funeral, a rare honour that places her among Kenyas most respected national figures. The government will accord her this tribute in recognition of her lifelong dedication to womens rights and public service. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga confirmed that she consulted President William Ruto, who agreed to have the State take charge of the burial arrangements. Governor Wanga explained that members of the Maendeleo ya Wanawake Organisation had requested that Asiyos funeral be elevated beyond a private family event and recognised as a matter of national importance. The appeal was passed on to President Ruto, who, with the support of the organisation and the governor, approved the request. I raised the matter with the President, and he agreed that this would be a State funeral. His Excellency the President and Baba [ODM leader Raila Odinga] are with us, said Governor Wanga. In his tribute, President William Ruto remembered the late Phoebe Asiyo as a brave and path-breaking leader who championed womens participation in politics and leadership.. Her voice was instrumental in advancing this cause, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire generations, the President stated. Asiyo went down in history in 1980 when she first joined Parliament as the MP for Karachuonyo. Though a member for only up to 1983, she made a resounding comeback into Parliament in 1992 following the reinstallation of multi-party democracy and served until 1997. In Parliament, she vociferously pleaded for the creation of the Woman Representative position in order to solidify womens representation in national leadership. Her achievements reached far beyond the corridors of parliament. In 1963, on the brink of Kenyas independence, Asiyo became the first woman to serve as Senior Superintendent of Kenya Prisons. That same year, she also broke ground as the first African chairperson of the Maendeleo ya Wanawake Organisation (MYWO), where she helped uplift thousands of women through economic empowerment programs in agriculture and small-scale business. Internationally, Asiyo served as Kenyas first Goodwill Ambassador to the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM). She also shaped the countrys law as a commissioner in the Constitution of Kenya Review Commission. In her Luo community, she was remembered as the inaugural female Elder, a position that cemented her legacy of leadership and influence. For her exemplary work, Asiyo received honorary doctorates from Lehigh and York universities and was honored with the Order of the Grand Warrior by the Government of Kenya. She was like a mother to me and to many women leaders in this region. As the first African chairperson of Maendeleo ya Wanawake, Mama Phoebe helped shape the organisation into a powerful voice for women across the country. Her legacy within and beyond the womens movement is unmatched and will be long remembered. said Governor Wanga. The late Phoebe Asiyo will be laid to rest on August 8 at her home in Kibiri Ward, Homa Bay County. Her body is currently in North Carolina, USA, where she passed away, and is scheduled to arrive in Kenya on August 4 ahead of the funeral. Looking for a break? Test your knowledge of this week's news from the Yakima Valley. The American Footworks dance group is organizing free dance lessons and a dance house at the Museum of Ethnography on Wednesday. As part of the program, the public can learn about traditional dances of the United States, accompanied by live bluegrass music, the city park institution told MTI. American Footworks is a young folk dance group coming to Budapest from the Rocky Mountains region of Idaho, USA. Their repertoire reflects the diversity of American dance traditions, including hula, Charleston, hoe down, hip hop, southern waltz, and many other genres, the press announcement states. The U.S. dance group will hold a presentation and dance hall at the Ethnographic Museum on Wednesday from 4 p.m., during which participants can get acquainted with the traditional dances of the United States. With the help of the group members, people of all ages can try their hand at American dances such as square dance, swing, cowboy dance, and the Charleston, accompanied by live bluegrass music. Before the museum performance, those interested can also meet the company at the Hungarian Music House's Tuesday event: the American Footworks Dance Company and the American Footworks Bluegrass Band will hold a free clogging dance performance on the open-air stage. According to the recommendation on the Hungarian Music House website, approximately twenty dancers from the American Footworks Dance Company are selected each year from approximately one hundred students at the Idaho clogging dance studio based on their skills, commitment, attitude, and performance abilities. Each must be a skilled clogger and demonstrate proficiency in other dance styles. American clogging has its roots in the intersection of various early European immigrant, Native American, and African slave dance forms, primarily in the southern Appalachian Mountains. The dance was an improvisational, percussive solo or individual dance form performed at community celebrations, harvest festivals, baptisms, church gatherings, and dance parties. Towards the end of the 19th century, communities began incorporating this improvisational footwork into social, formation and square dance routines. The social event, now known as " hoedown " or " freestyle " clogging, took on a variety of regional forms and remained a popular community activity, according to the House of Music website. More: Museum of Ethnography Budapest ********************************* You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters Showcase Your Business to Expats in the Loop: As an independent portal were grateful to all commercial supporters who help keep you in the loop with fresh insights and inspiration. Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? If so please contact us here. Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel is set to come alive with the vibrant energy of Thailand on 29 August, as it proudly hosts the Opening Ceremony of Thai Gastro Week presented by the Royal Thai Embassy. This highly anticipated event the Muay Thai Gala promises an unforgettable evening of authentic Thai cuisine, cultural performance, and the thrilling spirit of Muay Thai. Embark on a sensory journey that blends the rich culinary heritage of Thailand with the dynamic tradition of Muay Thai boxing, as guests are treated to a specially curated street food style Thai menu served in the hotels majestic setting. The evening begins at 17:00, with welcome speeches by Tamas Fazekas, General Manager of Anantara New York Palace, and H.E. Mr. Phrommes Bhalopolbhayuhasena, Ambassador of Thailand. The Muay Thai performances and live matches scheduled from 18:30 to 21:00 will showcase powerful displays from both Hungarian and international fighters. These energetic performances pay homage to one of Thailands most celebrated traditions and are sure to ignite the spirit of the crowd. Team Hungary: Anna Szekely, IFMA European Champion, 2 Elite European Championship Silver Medalist, 2 Hungarian Champion Szilard Jozsa, 5 Hungarian Champion, 3 IFMA World Championship Bronze Medalist Istvan Kurdy, 2 World Championship 3rd Place, European Championship Silver Medalist, 6 Hungarian Champion Janos Poljak, 2 Hungarian Champion, Polish Cup Winner Throughout the event, guests will be able to savour the finest flavours of Thai street cuisine, with a tasting menu that includes: Tom Yum Kung A spicy and sour prawn soup infused with lemongrass, lime, and chili. Traditional Pad Thai Stir-fried rice noodles with tamarind sauce, tofu, shrimp, and crushed peanuts. Beef Massaman Curry Slow-cooked beef in a rich coconut curry with potatoes and peanuts. Kow Neaw Ma-Muang A classic Thai dessert of sweet sticky rice with ripe mango and coconut cream. Soft drinks, beer, and wine are also included in the experience. To attend the opening ceremony and enjoy the full tasting menu, Promotional Vouchers must be purchased in advance for 15,000 HUF. Bookings and Inquiries: Beke Katalin or Egri-Malik Reka This remarkable evening offers a rare opportunity to witness Thailands cultural richness through its cuisine, combat art, and community. Anantara New York Palace invites guests from all walks of life to join the celebration and be part of a truly extraordinary experience. Location: Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel Erzsebet krt. 9/11, 1073 Budapest, Hungary T: +36 1 886 6111 E: newyorkpalace@anantara-hotels.com Anantara Team looks forward to welcoming you for an extraordinary experience! The private bus was going from Nagpur to Pune, while the trailer truck it collided with was carrying steel was on its way from Jalna to Surat As many as 743 roads, including the Manali-Chandigarh national highway at Mandi and the Shimla-Chandigath highway at Shoghi have been blocked for traffic, he added. In Mandi alone, 13 people died and six went missing in flash floods and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, Deputy Commissioner Arindam Chaudhary said. Those missing are feared dead, he said. ATLANTA Three Emory Healthcare hospitals have ranked prominently in this years regional rankings of U.S. News & World Reports Best Hospitals issue. For the fourteenth year in a row, Emory University Hospital ranked as the No. 1 hospital in Georgia and metro Atlanta in the 2025-26 Best Regional Hospitals rankings. (Emory University Hospital includes Emory University Orthopaedics & Spine Hospital.) Emory Saint Josephs Hospital ranked No. 2 in Georgia and metro Atlanta for the tenth consecutive year. Emory University Hospital Midtown ranked No. 5 in Georgia and No. 4 in metro Atlanta rankings. In the 2025-26 Best Hospitals Specialty Rankings, Emory University Hospital ranked nationally in the following adult specialties: Geriatrics, Neurology & Neurosurgery and Urology. The hospital was considered high performing in Cancer, Cardiology and Heart & Vascular Surgery, Gastroenterology & GI Surgery, Orthopaedics and Pulmonary & Lung Surgery. Emory Saint Josephs Hospital ranked high performing in Gastroenterology & GI Surgery, Geriatrics, Orthopaedics, Pulmonology & Lung Surgery and Urology. Emory University Hospital Midtown ranked high performing in Gastroenterology & GI Surgery, Geriatrics and Pulmonology & Lung Surgery. Emory Johns Creek Hospital was considered high performing in Gastroenterology & GI Surgery, Geriatrics and Neurology & Neurosurgery. These regional and national rankings showcase our focus on and commitment to quality, patient-centered care provided every day by our skilled and compassionate team members, says Joon S. Lee, MD, executive vice president for health affairs of Emory University and CEO of Emory Healthcare. Thank you to our many clinicians for helping us achieve these successes this year, and congratulations to all. U.S. News & World Report began publishing hospital rankings in 1990, as Americas Best Hospitals, to identify medical centers in various specialties best suited for patients whose illnesses pose challenges because of underlying conditions, procedure difficulty, advanced age or other medical issues that add risk. Hospitals are assessed in 15 specialty areas for the rankings. In 12 of the 15 specialties, ranking is determined by an extensive data-driven analysis combining performance measures in three primary dimensions of health care: structure, process and outcomes. In the three other specialties, ranking relies solely on expert opinion. More than 4,500 hospitals were evaluated this year. U.S. News & World Report first published Best Regional Hospitals in 2011. Within a state or major metropolitan area, regional hospital rank is determined by a hospital's performance in the national adult specialty rankings analysis and by its scores across procedure and condition areas. To see the complete list of 2025-26 Best Hospitals rankings, visit here. Dax Shepard allows his kids to swear. Dax Shepard and Kristen Bell have been married since 2013 The 50-year-old actor - who has daughters Lincoln, 12, and Delta, ten, with actress Kristen Bell - has revealed that he has no issues with swearing in front of his children, and he doesn't mind them cursing "when its called for" either. Dax said on the Armchair Expert podcast: "I fully swear in front of my kids. They are allowed to swear, not with impunity, but when its called for, and they land it, and its in the house and not out at a restaurant, its OK. "My defence of it is, I just told the girls, like, Hey, these are noises that come out of your mouth, and you assign what they mean to you.'" Dax also acknowledged that his kids are exposed to curse words at school. He added: "You just dont want them to say it in front of a teacher." Meanwhile, Kristen previously revealed that she tries to set a positive example for her kids. The Hollywood star explained that she and her husband try to deal with their problems in the healthiest way possible, so that their children can learn from their example. Kristen - who has been married to Dax since 2013 - told People: "We always make up in front of them if anyone gets snarky or frustrated or fights, which we all do. "We do not have the makeup, our conflict resolution, be behind closed doors. Even if at dinner, let's say, one of us is frustrated and is a little snarky and then we go to bed. We'll apologise to each other the next morning. "Then we will apologise and make amends to each other in front of the kids so that they can see how conflict resolution actually happens." Despite this, Kristen and Dax initially tried to adopt a hands-off approach to parenting. The actress told TODAY: "When we had our first child, we said we wanted to be second child parents, and we made an agreement that if she wanted to do something, as long as it didnt require a trip to the hospital, shed be allowed to do it." The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has officially disqualified three Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmakers, including Senator of Punjab province Ejaz Chaudhry, following their convictions by an anti-terrorism court related to the May 9 riot case, The Express Tribune reported. According to The Express Tribune, the notification, released on Monday, stated that the ECP confirmed the disqualification of Senator Chaudhry, Member of Pakistan''s National Assembly (MNA) Muhammad Ahmad Chattha, and Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Ahmad Khan Bhachar. Each of them was sentenced to 10 years in prison on anti-terrorism charges. Chaudhry was declared guilty by the anti-terrorism court and, under Article 63(1)(h) of the Constitution, is no longer eligible to serve as a Senate member, the ECP stated, as reported by The Express Tribune. Similarly, MNA Chattha and MPA Bhachar were disqualified following their convictions. Chattha was elected from NA-66 Wazirabad, and Bhachar represented PP-87 Mianwali in the Punjab Assembly. Last week, an anti-terrorism court in Sargodha sentenced Bhachar and other PTI workers to 10 years in prison each. In a related development, the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore acquitted six PTI leaders, including Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Hamza Azeem, in connection with the May 9 riots, The Express Tribune reported. The May 9, 2023, riots broke out across the country after the arrest of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan. PTI leaders and supporters protested, targeting civil and military sites such as Jinnah House and the GHQ in Rawalpindi. The military condemned the protests as a "Black Day" and decided to prosecute the accused under the Army Act. Many PTI members were arrested and tried in military courts. In December, 25 individuals, including Imran Khan''s nephew Hassan Khan Niazi, were convicted, with 60 more sentenced later, according to The Express Tribune. In January, 19 convicts were pardoned after mercy appeals, though PTI expressed disappointment over the limited number of pardons. Initially halted by a Supreme Court ruling, military trials resumed following instructions to conclude pending cases and issue judgments for those involved in the violent incidents. (ANI) With a shared vision to take Indian innovation to the world, Qorum is more than just a watch brand -- it's a movement to showcase India's ability to compete in the global luxury segment. The first collection, now live on qorumindia.com, features limited-edition timepieces for both men and women, reflecting refined aesthetics, attention to detail, and world-class quality. "We're proud to create something that reflects India's design capabilities and global ambition," said Nishant Pitti. Ajay Devgn added, "Qorum is a brand that speaks to people who value character, legacy, and timeless style." As the brand begins its journey, Qorum is set to position India on the world map of luxury horology. (ANI) VMPL Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], July 29: The Chetu Foundation, the non-profit organization of the global digital intelligence and software solutions provider Chetu, today announced the donation of seven fully electric meal delivery vehicles to the Akshaya Patra Foundation, a non-profit committed to ending classroom hunger in India. The initiative is a key part of both organizations' commitment to fighting child hunger while embracing environmentally responsible practices. The Chetu Foundation and Akshaya Patra flagged off the seven electric vehicles (EVs) during a joint ceremony this month, attended by leadership from both foundations, employees, and members of the local community. These EVs now deliver healthy midday meals to thousands of schoolchildren across the Delhi-NCR region, all while reducing carbon emissions. "At Chetu, we strongly believe that sustainable innovation and corporate social responsibility must go hand in hand," said Manish Kumar, HR Manager at Chetu. "These electric vehicles represent our commitment to nourishing young minds while protecting the planet." "We are proud to support a mission that not only addresses child hunger but also embraces a greener future," added Shaili Bansal, Executive Director of the Chetu Foundation. "These EVs are a symbol of our dual focus--caring for our children and our planet. We look forward to deepening our impact through partnerships that create lasting and responsible change." The EVs come equipped with specially designed compartments to preserve food quality, safety, and hygiene during transport. Each truck will make two trips daily, delivering 3,000 meals, feeding about 18,000 students, and totaling more than 4 million meals a year to schools in Delhi, Noida, and nearby regions. "Chetu's support in adding more vehicles to our fleet has made a meaningful difference in our ability to serve more communities effectively. This is going to significantly help us in reaching our goal of feeding 3 million children every day by 2027. We're proud to have them as a partner in our mission and truly thankful for their generosity," said Navin Goel, CEO of the Akshaya Patra Foundation USA. This collaboration highlights how innovation and compassion can work together to solve some of society's most pressing challenges. Through this initiative, both foundations aim to spark greater awareness around eco-friendly operations and the importance of inclusive nutrition for school-going children. For more information about Chetu and the Chetu Foundation, please visit www.chetu.com and www.chetufoundation.org, respectively. About Chetu India: Founded in 2000, Chetu is a global leader in digital intelligence and software solutions. With over 2,800 experts worldwide, Chetu's India campus incudes three advanced development centres in Sector 63, Noida. Spanning more than 169,000 square feet, these state-of-the-art facilities offer an ideal setting for developers working on cutting-edge software solutions. In addition to a dedicated Training & Development Centre for recent technical graduates, the Noida campus features modern amenities--including gyms, cafeterias, and company-sponsored clubs--that foster both professional growth and community. For more information and current career opportunities, please visit Chetu's Career Center. About Chetu Foundation: Founded in 2018, Chetu Foundation is the non-profit subsidiary of Chetu, a global digital intelligence and software solutions provider. Created to aid its team members in their philanthropic interests, the Chetu Foundation's mission is based on the principles of "Empowering Children," "Improving the Quality of Life," "Giving Back to Communities," and "Creating and Sustaining Change." While the Foundation actively supports disaster recovery aid and humanitarian assistance, the main focus is the improvement of childhood wellbeing and education in the local communities around the world. To learn more about the Chetu Foundation and the work of the Chetu team members, visit www.chetufoundation.org. Media Contact: pr@chetu.com 954-355-6282 (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) NewsVoir Mumbai (Maharashtra) / Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], July 29: Venttup, a pioneering B2B manufacturing startup focused on driving indigenisation & new part development across industries has launched a whitepaper titled 'Building India's manufacturing momentum,' at the Kerala Innovation Festival. The whitepaper was launched by the Venttup team during the Kerala Innovation Festival in Kochi, in the presence of distinguished industry leaders, policymakers, professors, and mentors. The first copy of the whitepaper was ceremoniously handed over to esteemed guests, including Ms. Mamatha Venkatesh, Head of Start-up India; Dr. Lida Jacob IAS; Mr. Sridhar Radhakrishnan, Steering Committee Member of ASHA-Kisan Swaraj; Mr. Suresh Krishna, Co-Founder & CEO of the Yunus Foundation; Mr. Joseph Martin, CEO , Geojit-CUSAT Centre for Sustainability Studies; Mr. Jayaraman Chillayil, Managing Director of Equinoct; and Dr. Abhilash Sukumarapillai, Director of the Advanced Centre for Atmospheric Radar Research. Venttup, founded by industry veterans with extensive experience at Hitachi Energy, Siemens Energy, L&T, and Kalpataru Power, Sandeep Nair (Co-founder & CEO), M. Wasim Ankli (Co-founder & COO), and Joseph Panakkal (Co-founder & CMO), the whitepaper examines a substantive body of work, and has inputs from industry experts and founders in the manufacturing trenches to validate the findings. Venttup is built on the principles of localization and sustainability. It assists large and medium enterprises in outsourcing their engineering needs by leveraging India's manufacturing expertise to develop high-quality, locally sourced components - from prototype to mass production. Venttup offers localized production of critical engineering solutions and highly customized, complex mechanical, electrical, and electronic components across the Energy, EV, Aerospace, and Defense sectors, driving India's manufacturing industry toward self-reliance and sustainable growth. The company is building a unified platform for global buyers to source high-quality, reliable, and sustainable components from India. Commenting on the launch of whitepaper, Sanddep Nair, Co-founder & CEO, Venttup says, "India's manufacturing ecosystem is dotted with millions of MSMEs who are the backbone of this sector. However, due to their lack of skills in end to end project management, cash flow limitations, R&D and lack of understanding the latest tech capabilities, the growth of this sector has remained slow. The govt has been rolling out pro manufacturing policies but there is an urgent need for the private sector to partner with the govt and other key stakeholders to build India into a global manufacturing hub across high growth industries. With this whitepaper, we have attempted to highlight the strength areas where India has the leverage, manpower and the know-how to grow into a strong manufacturing destination for global buyers and provided recommendations on how this shift can be accelerated with the help of technology." Bhaskar Majumdar, Managing Partner, Unicorn India Ventures, says, "We have been big believers in India's talent and capabilities to transform itself into a manufacturing destination for the world. Our investments in Venttup and engineering driven startups is a testament to our strong belief in India's emergence as a strong alternative to China in manufacturing. We strongly advocate that there is a need for developing manufacturing clusters within India as we take strategic steps to spotlight the prowess of India's manufacturing landscape. The key findings of the whitepaper include, emergence of MaaS companies, increasing preference of global aeronautical companies to establish manufacturing base in India and China + 1 strategy that is driving the smart manufacturing wave by integrating MSMEs into the ecosystem at a scalable level." Manufacturing as a Service The advent of cloud manufacturing or MaaS has the potential to bring global buyers to Indian MSMEs. Currently, MSMEs contribute 45% of the country's exports. However, most of the MSME led manufacturing establishments employ minimal workforce and use obsolete machinery, they lack project management, lack of tech integration in workflows lead to losing out on valuable projects and limits MSMEs capabilities to focus on strategic issues. At times, capacity remains under-utilised leading to limited order pipeline. On the other hand, global buyers lack the expertise and network to source from the vast MSMEs. MaaS companies are filling this gap by becoming a much needed bridge between global buyers and Indian MSMEs. India becoming an emerging hub for aircraft components India is set to become a global hub for aircraft components manufacturing with a market size of $29.5 billion by 2033. Driven by govt initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, many SMEs are looking to invest in skilled manufacturing such as precision engineering, composite materials and semiconductors design and manufacturing. Global majors like Airbus and Boeing have announced partnerships with Mahindra and Tata to set up manufacturing operations in India. Indian PM Narendra Modi has presented a strong pitch to position India as a global hub for MRO with an aim to become a $4 billion MRO hub by 2030. Conducive policy environment India is taking all the right steps to accelerate the manufacturing sector's growth. Pro manufacturing policies like PLI have played a role in incentivising domestic manufacturing and have made India an attractive destination for global manufacturing giants. This shift is also a part of the global de-risking strategy of China + 1 post the pandemic. Recommendations India is in the right place at the right time to build itself into a position of strength in manufacturing. Given the country's prowess in tech led services and adoption of tech in every aspect, India with its demographic dividend has an edge in presenting itself as a hub for intelligent manufacturing, IoT, robotics, advances in AI and Quantum Computing. This will lead to India becoming a knowledge enabled manufacturing industry where innovation will be the key differentiator. Supplier ecosystem and strategic manufacturing corridor: India must focus on building sector specific industrial clusters that support end to end manufacturing for high growth industries like Energy, EV, semiconductors and precision engineering. These clusters should encourage co-location of suppliers, logistics providers and manufacturers. Workforce development: India must revamp its ITIs, modernising curriculum to align with current and future industry demands. Structured apprenticeship programs, PPP should be encouraged to establish CoE focused on critical skill development areas like robotics, CNC operations and smart manufacturing technologies. Acceleration adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies: This can be achieved by offering targeted subsidies and tax incentives to encourage MSMEs to invest in automation, data analytics and digital tools. India also needs to strengthen its R&D ecosystem. Currently, India spends mere 0.7% of its GDP in R&D while China spends 2.4%. With the help of ongoing govt policy push, PPP, and adoption of smart manufacturing, this investment should grow for India to truly claim its global position of top tier manufacturing hub for the World. To read the full whitepaper, click here. Linkedin page link: www.linkedin.com/company/venttup-ventures-private-limited. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) VMPL Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], July 29: In an age where digital information is everywhere but true understanding is rare, Tech Gup is emerging as the platform that makes technology truly accessible to the Bengali-speaking world. With a renewed focus on user-friendly storytelling and deep domain coverage, Tech Gup is redefining how tech news reaches readers in West Bengal, across India, and beyond. Whether it's smartphones, gadgets, telecom breakthroughs, or electric vehicle innovations -- Tech Gup is speaking the language of the people, in the language they understand. Inside Tech Gup: Bengal's Homegrown Digital Tech VoiceTech Gup is a Bengali-language digital news platform that focuses on technology, smartphones, telecom, and automobiles. It was founded on July 21, 2017, by Shib Pada Mandal and Suman Patra as a small-scale digital initiative with the aim of simplifying tech news for Bengali readers. Over the years, it has grown into one of the most trusted and widely followed regional media brands, attracting over 5 million monthly readers. Operated under Tech Gup Media Private Limited and headquartered in Namkhana, West Bengal, the platform is now recognized for its clear, impartial, and easy-to-understand tech journalism in the Bengali language. The Journey BeginsIn 2017, the idea of reading tech news in Bengali was still new. Recognizing the digital gap for regional readers, co-founders Shib Pada Mandal and Suman Patra launched Tech Gup with a simple goal: to present technology in a way that anyone could understand, regardless of their background. What started as a passion project quickly gained momentum, thanks to its relatable content and focus on user experience. Today, the platform is powered by a full-time team of over 15 professionals, including writers, editors, SEO experts, and video producers. Revolutionizing Tech News for the Bengali AudienceTech Gup's strength lies in its ability to decode the fast-paced tech world and bring it closer to the common reader. Whether it's a flagship smartphone launch, a new Jio data plan, or the latest in EV mobility, the platform explains it all in simple, conversational Bengali. This focus on accessibility has made Tech Gup a household name among tech enthusiasts and first-time digital users alike. With dedicated coverage of sectors like technology and gadgets, smartphones and mobile reviews, telecom industry updates, and automobiles including electric vehicles, Tech Gup is not just reporting the news -- it's helping readers understand how technology fits into their daily lives. Setting a New Benchmark in Regional JournalismIn a media ecosystem where many Bengali portals rely heavily on translations or complex terminology, Tech Gup stands apart by creating original, localized, and SEO-optimized content. The website is mobile-friendly, making it easily accessible for readers on the go, and also features short-form videos, explainers, and product reviews tailored for the Bengali-speaking market. Beyond the written word, Tech Gup is expanding its presence through platforms like YouTube, delivering engaging content via visual storytelling. Their unbiased comparisons, buying guides, and consumer-centric updates have earned the trust of a diverse audience -- from students and professionals to senior citizens looking to navigate the digital age. Voices Behind the VisionSpeaking about the platform's mission, co-founder Suman Patra said, "In this digital age, most Bengali portals provide technology news in complicated language. We want to change that. Our main goal is to deliver neutral and comprehensive information in simple language so that ordinary readers can easily understand." This clarity-first mindset is the backbone of Tech Gup's growing community, not just in West Bengal, but among Bengali speakers across India and globally, especially in Bangladesh, the Gulf, and the UK. What Lies AheadLooking forward, Tech Gup has ambitious plans to enhance its user experience and content delivery. A dedicated mobile app is in development to bring real-time tech news directly to readers' fingertips. The team is also investing in video journalism and planning collaborations with leading tech brands for product testing and early-access reviews. These initiatives are part of Tech Gup's larger vision to become the go-to Bengali platform for everything tech-related. By combining digital innovation with regional language empowerment, Tech Gup is not only educating its readers but also reshaping how technology is understood, consumed, and appreciated in Bengali. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) NewsVoir Delhi NCR [India], July 29: The definition of luxury housing in India is no longer what it used to be. As more households move up the income ladder, buyers are bringing sharper expectations to the table. Besides, the pandemic was a major turning point. It made space, wellness, and privacy non-negotiable. Today's luxury home is as much about comfort and calm as it is about status. It's where aspiration meets everyday utility; and that shift is what's driving the next wave of growth. According to a joint report by CBRE-ASSOCHAM, India's luxury housing segment witnessed an 85% year-on-year (YoY) growth in the first half of 2025, with nearly 7,000 high-end residential units sold across the top seven cities. Leading the luxury surge, Delhi-NCR clocked sales of approximately 4,000 luxury units during January-June 2025, contributing 57% share to the total luxury segment. The region also recorded a threefold increase in sales compared to the same period last year, the report said. With rising disposable incomes, the appetite for premium homes has grown wider. NRIs are returning with global benchmarks, professionals are upgrading their lifestyle; there's a clear shift toward real estate that delivers both comfort and capital appreciation. For many, a luxury home is no longer a milestone purchase--it's a strategic one. Yukti Nagpal, Director, Gulshan Group, says, "The concept of luxury has gone beyond mere possessions. With more disposable income and clearer expectations, buyers seek homes where they can experience comfort, convenience, and a certain ease in everyday living. In NCR, micro-markets like Noida-Greater Noida Expressway are seeing massive traction due to their superior infrastructure, proximity to business hubs, and access to prime facilities, aligning with what buyers look for. At Gulshan, we curate residences that are aspirational yet rooted in practicality; where every detail, from layout to location, enhances quality of life." Data from JLL showed, India's housing market is witnessing a decisive tilt toward premium homes, with properties priced above Rs 1 crore accounting for 62% of all residential sales during the first half of 2025. These homes are being snapped up not just in Delhi or Mumbai, but in tier 2 cities too. For this new class of affluent buyers, luxury housing is where aspiration meets asset-building. Saurabh Saharan, Group Managing Director, HCBS Developments, says, "In Gurugram, Dwarka Expressway's rise as a premium residential zone is no accident. With its strategic location connecting Delhi and Gurugram, infrastructure upgrades, and proximity to IGI Airport, this stretch has become a magnet for luxury homebuyers. As developers, we've noticed an increasing shift towards smart, secure, and amenity-rich homes in this corridor. What's especially driving the market now is a new wave of millennial buyers with rising disposable incomes, who want more than just shelter. They're seeking larger homes, spacious layouts, and modern amenities that match their lifestyle. This shift is pushing the demand for premium, future-ready homes, and we believe Gururgam will sustain its real estate market where homes meet these aspirations." Dr. Vishesh Rawat, VP & Head of Marketing, Sales & CRM, M2K Group, says, "In sectors like Sector 104 along the Dwarka Expressway, we're seeing a very distinct kind of luxury demand, which is quiet, thoughtful, and deeply lifestyle-driven. Affluent buyers here want homes that feel like a retreat but still stay connected to the city's pulse. But what's equally driving interest is the investment potential. With soaring property prices, strong sales momentum, and non-stop infrastructure development, this corridor is anticipated to deliver impressive ROI in the coming years. Hence, we foresee that luxury, for this segment, is about balance not excess." Vikas Dua, Founder and Director, Chintamanis Group, says, "Gurugram continues to lead NCR's luxury housing evolution, driven by a clientele with high disposable income that values brand legacy, prime addresses, and architectural statement. Branded residences, especially along corridors like the Dwarka Expressway, are being viewed as generational assets. The demand here is as much emotional as it is financial, turning Gurugram's billionaire belt a proven destination for enduring value." Simultaneously, Tier-2 cities like Dehradun, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Indore, and Lucknow have become the new luxury hubs. As per MagicBricks, the average capital appreciation across Tier-II cities stands at 17.6%, outpacing the national capital's 11.10%. Driven by NRI investments, second-home aspirations, and retirement planning, luxury is now becoming a nationwide aspiration rooted in quality living and future-readiness. Harvinder Singh Sikka, Chairman, Sikka Group, says, "The appetite for luxury homes in Tier 2 cities like Dehradun is unprecedented. With increased reverse migration, buyers are looking for elevated living without the chaos of metros. They demand panoramic views, green architecture, and modern amenities bundled into a lifestyle offering. Thus, the aspirational curve has shifted upward, and Tier 2 luxury now competes with metro-grade sophistication." Therefore, the future of luxury housing in India lies in its ability to evolve with the buyer. With disposable incomes rising and lifestyles becoming more global in taste, developers who focus on detail, design, and experience will be the ones leading the next chapter of India's luxury housing story. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PNN Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 29: As the much awaited, 18th India International Trade Show - Automation Expo 2025 gets ready to launch, India's industrial future takes center stage. The expo will be held at the Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), Goregaon, Mumbai, from August 11 to 14, 2025, is the biggest and most extensive display of state-of-the-art automation and instrumentation technologies in South Asia. Over 2,000 exhibiting companies will be present at Automation Expo 2025, which is organized by IED Communications Ltd. It is expected that over 65,000 trade visitors will attend, including a wide range of industry and manufacturing leaders, automation users, instrumentation professionals, engineers, supply chain managers, technology enthusiasts, and important decision-makers from a variety of industries, including automotive, oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, and other process industries. "Our theme, 'Crafting a Resilient & Sustainable Future Through Automation,' reflects the urgent need for industries to adopt smart, secure, and sustainable practices. This expo is not just a display of products; it's a vital platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and forging collaborations that will drive India's industrial growth towards a more efficient and environmentally responsible tomorrow." Mr. B. Narayan, Group President (Procurement and Projects), Reliance Industries Ltd. is the Chief Guest for the inauguration. The Guests of Honor will include Padmashri Prof. Dr. G. D. Yadav - Bhatnagar Fellow & National Science Chair (ANRF/DST/GOI) & Emeritus Professor of Eminence, Mr. Ritwij Kulkarni - Country Head, Honeywell Industrial Automation & Mr. Vinayak Marathe - Head - India Business Operations, Phillip Townsend Associates. Taking the Lead in Innovation This year's show will feature exhibits from some of the most well-known names in automation. ABB India, Adage Automation, Advantech India, Alstrut India, Autobots, Axis Solutions, Bartakke Electrofab, Beckhoff Automation, Dynalog (India), Elite Instruments, Endress+Hauser India, Exor India, Finder India, Flir Teledyne Systems India and many more are noticeable participants. Numerous up-and-coming talent and technological trailblazers from India and beyond will also be showcased, along with automation pioneers such as Omron Automation, Phoenix Contact, Renu Electronics, WIKA India, and Yokogawa India. A Glimpse into the Future of Automation Automation Expo 2025 is being hosted across Halls 2, 3, and 6 of the Bombay Exhibition Centre, spread over an area of 35,000+ sq. meters and is set to unveil a vivid and forward-looking portrait of industrial transformation. The event promises an immersive experience where cutting-edge machinery, real-time data, and smart systems converge to form a unified, intelligent manufacturing ecosystem. At the forefront will be live demonstrations of next-generation industrial robotics, including collaborative cobots and AI-powered robotic systems designed to execute complex operations with speed, precision, and adaptability. These advancements reimagine the role of human-machine collaboration, making the industrial floor safer, more productive, and inherently more flexible. Bringing the smart factory vision to life, Automation Expo 2025 will spotlight a comprehensive range of Industry 4.0 technologies, including IIoT, digital twins, predictive analytics, and cloud-integrated platforms. These systems enable seamless asset connectivity, real-time data exchange, and predictive intelligence--empowering manufacturers to optimize performance, reduce downtime, and enhance decision-making on the production floor. A major highlight will be the expansive display of process and factory automation technologies, the core infrastructure of modern industry. Key components such as PLCs, DCS, SCADA, HMIs, industrial sensors, and field instruments will demonstrate how precision control and regulatory compliance are achieved in sectors like oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and energy. Simultaneously, factory automation solutions--including robotic arms, motion controllers, servo drives, vision inspection systems, and automated material handling--will showcase how smart manufacturing boosts efficiency, ensures product consistency, and minimizes manual intervention in high-volume production. Collectively, these technologies form the dynamic control layer of today's industrial ecosystem--driving agility, transparency, and competitiveness. Automation Expo 2025 will underscore how core technologies empower industries to scale efficiently, integrate intelligently, and adapt rapidly. Highlights include advanced machine vision systems for real-time inspection and defect detection, and a robust layer of AI-driven digital tools--from AR interfaces and cybersecurity frameworks to machine learning platforms. Together, they redefine industrial interaction and optimization. More than its scale, what sets the expo apart is its clear demonstration of automation's transformative role in building agile, intelligent, and future-ready industries. Beyond Exhibition: Insights, Collaboration & Innovation Automation Expo 2025 is not just an exhibition--it is a strategic hub for industrial intelligence, collaboration, and innovation. Over four dynamic days, the event will host three high-impact conferences that address the core imperatives of modern manufacturing. On August 11, "NexGen Factories: Transforming Industries for Sustainability" will focus on integrating automation for greener, future-ready production. August 12 features "Sustainable Process Evolution," spotlighting smart instrumentation, IIoT, and emission control technologies that drive environmentally conscious process industries. The "Back to Basics Workshop" on August 13 offers a unique hands-on platform for engineers to revisit critical automation fundamentals and enhance deployment readiness. These flagship conferences will be complemented by thought leadership sessions from global experts on AI adoption, industrial cybersecurity, and asset optimization. Alongside, technical seminars and interactive workshops will provide operations leaders and engineers with actionable insights for implementing cutting-edge automation solutions. To foster strategic connections, Automation Expo 2025 includes structured B2B networking zones--enabling OEMs, integrators, investors, and solution providers to engage in high-value dialogue and partnership development. The Startup Showcase will spotlight emerging innovators across robotics, IIoT, edge computing, and machine vision--offering a clear view into India's rapidly evolving industrial technology landscape. Who Should Attend: Automation Expo 2025 is a must-attend event for CEOs, CTOs, Managing Directors, Plant Heads, Factory Managers, Production Heads, Operations Managers, Technical & Implementation Professionals, Technology & IT Professionals, System Integratorsfrom every industry seeking to adopt advanced automation, enhance operational efficiency, and drive sustainable growth. Ideal for professionals from industries including Automotive, Oil & Gas, Pharma, F&B, Chemicals, Energy, Textiles, Cement, Metals, Engineering, Logistics, Defence, IT, Waste Management, and Infrastructure--Automation Expo 2025 is where every sector meets innovation. Registration Information: Visitor registration for Automation Expo 2025 is now open. Secure your free entry by registering online at https://www.viablesoft.org.in/AutomationExpo2025VD/index.aspx. Early registration is highly recommended. (Note: Entry is typically not permitted for individuals below 18 years, with student entry allowed on Day 4 (14th August 2025) after 11:00 AM). Join us at Automation Expo 2025 and be a part of India's journey towards an automated, resilient, and sustainable future! About Automation Expo: The India International Trade Show - Automation Expo is Asia's largest and most comprehensive exhibition on automation and instrumentation. Since its inception, Automation Expo has served as a pivotal platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies, fostering industry collaboration, and driving innovation across diverse industrial sectors in India and South Asia. For more information, please visit - https://www.automationindiaexpo.com (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PNN New Delhi [India], July 29: Corporate Connect Global Magazine is a leading publication, providing a platform for entrepreneurs, business leaders and innovators to share their stories, connect with their target audience and create a solid industry presence. With a focus on business excellence, innovation and sustainability, the magazine aims to empower individuals and organisations striving to thrive. At Corporate Connect Magazine, we believe that success goes beyond accomplishing your objective - it is about pushing beyond it to reach new heights and making a lasting impact. With our latest "Indian Business Excellence Awards 2025, we recognise individuals and organisations that embody the spirit of dedication, determination and resilience amid obstacles. Join us as we celebrate business trailblazers, change-makers and innovators who have created a revolution in the business world and created inspiration to follow others. This is the best opportunity to draw inspiration from their triumph and be part of a community that drives excellence and innovation. Ukiyoto Publishing Arjun Chaudhuri (Founder & CEO) Impact Recognition: The Most Renowned Publishing House To Follow In 2025 Since its inception, Ukiyoto Publishing has been a reputable traditional publishing company with a robust network spanning over 70 nations. Founded by the visionary Arjun Chaudhuri, the company has published over 5000 books over the years and printed over 300,000 books in paperback and hardback formats. With a commitment to excellence, Ukiyoto Publishing is set to make a notable impact in the literary world. Walter Cuminns Shipping Services Mr Reegesh Ramakrishnan (CEO) Most Promising Maritime Solutions Brand of the Year 2025 Walter Cuminns Shipping Services (WCS), established in 2021, has rapidly emerged as a global maritime leader, earning the title of Most Promising Maritime Solutions Brand of the Year 2025. Under the visionary leadership of Founder and CEO Mr. Reegesh Ramakrishnan, WCS has set benchmarks in operational excellence, customer focus, and innovation. Offering a wide range of services across key global ports, WCS stands out for its commitment to sustainability, digital transformation, and strategic partnerships, redefining modern maritime standards with reliability, integrity, and forward-thinking solutions. Mindskillz Cavita Mehra (Managing Director) Impact Recognition: Corporate Learning Innovation Award - 2025 The brainchild of Cavita Mehra, Mindskillz is well-known for offering innovative learning solutions and empowering organisations to upgrade their workforce. Since its inception in 2008, it has been focused on nurturing talent through strategic and impactful learning solutions and has now introduced the LMS C-Factor offering self-paced learning micro modules, further enhancing its blended learning approach in step with the times. Mindskillz drives accelerated performance with personal growth; it currently has a pan-India presence across 33 cities and a global foothold with a network of more than 250+ consultants and trainers. EDUCATION STATION ROHIT SIKKA (DIRECTOR) Most Trusted Immigration Consultancy - 2025 Education Station is a distinctive platform that provides students the right guidance for studying abroad and also expert professionals to help them identify their capabilities. With Rohit Sikka at the helm, the company is supporting students to lead them to their destinations. The entire team is dedicated to empowering students to meet their career aspirations and make them fully satisfied. Sheel Biotech Limited Dr S.N. Chandak (Chairman & Executive Director) Greenhouse Innovation Excellence Award 2025 Sheel Biotech Limited is a leading biotech company, renowned for its innovative agri-solutions. The company is led by Dr S.N. Chandak, Chairman & Executive Director, and is committed to making a positive impact in the industry. It has established itself as a trusted player in the biotech sector due to its dedication to innovation and excellence. SHREI GLOBAL LOGISTICS SHEKHAR GUPTA (CEO) Most Trusted International Cargo & Shipping Partner - 2025 Established in the year 2017, Shrei Global Logistics is an end-to-end logistics company. Under the dynamic leadership of Shekhar Gupta, the company has been recognized as the most trusted international cargo and shipping partner. Today, the company is associated with major seaports and airports worldwide. It has become a major and reliable player in the logistics industry with reliable and timely services. Inbounderz India Leading ROI Based Digital Marketing & Branding Agency - 2025 Sajil TG (Founder & CEO Nidhinraj MV - Founder & CFO) Incorporated in 2017, Inbounderz India has grown rapidly and become more than just a digital marketing firm. It has carved a niche for itself in branding, digital marketing, video ads, website development, and other marketing and development services. Because of its dedication and excellence, the company has become the first choice for all loyal clients, whether starting a new venture or expanding an existing business. Flipspaces Kunal Sharma (Founder & CEO) Fastest Growing Interior Design Venture in Commercial Spaces 2025 Flipspaces is a global interior design and build company transforming the commercial space experience through technology. Flipspaces has transformed over 8Mn SqFt with its tech-first cost efficient approach. Its proprietary software suite enables space planning, virtual walkthroughs, procurement and turnkey execution under one integrated platform. Operating across India, the United States and the U.A.E., Flipspaces serves enterprises, startups, and SMEs seeking agile, future-ready interiors. Cherysh Trust Sapna Ravindran (CEO) Best NGO for Promoting STEM Education Among Rural Girls 2025 Committed to empowering girls and women in rural India for over a decade, CherYsh Trust is an NGO transforming lives through quality education and meaningful work opportunities. Focused on bridging the gender gap in STEM, CherYsh works tirelessly to break the urban-rural digital divide, giving underprivileged girls access to knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive in a technology-driven world. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Ms. Sapna Ravindran, CherYsh fosters curiosity, builds digital literacy, and creates pathways to higher education and sustainable livelihoods for rural girls. HEFT Energy Private Limited Rajakumar Krishnan (CEO & Director) Best Emerging Company in Renewable Energy EPC Services - 2025 HEFT Energy Private Limited, with Rajakumar Krishnan at the helm, has become a pioneer in the renewable energy sector. It offers an innovative range of EPC services and is committed to delivering sustainable energy solutions to address the increasing industry demand. With its focus on quality, innovation and customer satisfaction, HEFT Energy is poised for continuous growth and success in the renewable energy market. TRPW Strategic Partners Rajesh Kumar (Managing Partner & CEO) Best Emerging Audit Tech And Consulting Company 2025 With a dedicated team of experienced finance and business professionals, TRPW Strategic Partners offers audit solutions customised to each business's goals with small and large geographies. Based in India and USA, this audit tech firm empowers entrepreneurs and senior business executives across diverse industries and businesses. M.B. Engineering Industries Mahabir Prasad Mishra (Proprietor) Excellence In Indigenous Machinery Development 2025 M.B. Engineering Industries is a 55-year-old establishment founded by its Mentor, Shri Ram Shiromani Mishra, and continued by its proprietor, Mr. Mahabir Prasad Mishra. The company manufactures Vertical Injection Moulding Machines and EVA press machines, which are proudly used by most of the renowned manufacturers in the footwear and automobile industries. As the first and oldest manufacturers of these machines, M.B. Engineering Industries has supplied its products across India and exported them to several countries. The company use all indigenous parts, maintaining high-quality standards and striving for continuous development with the latest Technology. Its 40,000 square ft workshop is equipped with skilled workers and CNC Machines, ensuring precise standards and accuracy. House of Zelena Hina Priyadarshini (Co-Founder) India's Most Loved Maternity Brand of 2025 The brainchild of Hina Priyadarshini, House of Zelena is a well-known maternity brand in India. It is widely known for its wide range of quality products and commitment to motherhood. Its focus is on comfort, style, and innovation. As India's love maternity brand, House of Zelena is continuously setting new industry standards with a strong online presence and customer-centric approach. Quasar CyberTech Private Limited Mr Kishor Sonawane (Founder & CEO) Excellence in Cybersecurity Services Provider 2025 Quasar CyberTech Private Limited (QCTPL) is a next-generation IT and Cybersecurity services company, committed to delivering secure, scalable, modern digital and cloud-driven solutions.It aims to be a trusted partner, delivering a wide range of services like Cybersecurity Consulting & Advisory, Managed IT, Staff Augmentation, IT & Cloud Consulting, Training & Education and Product Engineering. The company is currently growing under the dynamic leadership of Kishor Sonawane Zysec AI Pvt Ltd Venkatesh Siddi (CEO & Founder) Best Emerging AI Company of the Year 2025 ZySec AI builds the Sovereign Intelligence Stack, empowering Mission Critical organizations to deploy AI strategically. According to ZySec, they enable organisations to do so without compromising on data ownership, compliance, or security. Their platform unifies fragmented data into real-time, context-aware intelligence--ranging from RAG to autonomous agents. These are currently deployed in mission-critical facilities with zero data exposure. ZySec AI's vision is "A world where sovereign intelligence is trusted by design." They believe that intelligence should be owned, not outsourced--enabling competitive advantages to remain within organisations that created them. Caravela Roasters Mr Carlos Noronha (Founder) Emerging Brand of the Year 2025 Caravela Roasters is a Goa-based specialty coffee brand dedicated to crafting exceptional, small-batch coffees that highlight the richness and diversity of Indian beans. Founded by Carlos Noronha in 2019, the brand brings together artisanal roasting and a deep respect for origin to deliver a cup that is both flavourful and honest. From smooth, fruity Arabicas to bold, chocolatey blends with Robusta, Caravela Roasters offers a curated range of light, medium, and dark roasts, each batch roasted to order for maximum freshness. Rooted in Goa and driven by passion, the brand is redefining how coffee is experienced across cafes, homes, and workspaces throughout India. Ellocent Labs IT Solutions Pvt. Ltd. Sundeep Kaur (Founder) And Navneet Singh (Co-Founder) Top Enterprise Solution Provider 2025 Ellocent Labs IT Solutions, founded by Sundeep Kaur and Navneet Singh, is a global software development company. It strives to always deliver breakthrough solutions to clients to transform business through tech. The company envisions achieving a team environment with the client, staff, associates and business partners. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia announced significant achievements in the government's fight against telecom fraud, revealing that the Sanchar Saathi portal has been utilised by 15.5 crore citizens nationwide, marking a major milestone in digital security initiatives. Speaking to the media, Minister Scindia highlighted the dramatic impact of coordinated anti-fraud measures, stating that spoofed calls have been reduced by 97 per cent. "Earlier, we were receiving 1.35 crore spoofed calls per day. Now these calls have been reduced to just 3 lakh daily," the Minister announced. The government's multi-pronged approach has yielded impressive results across various fronts. A total of 1.75 crore phone numbers have been cancelled for exceeding individual limits, while an additional 82 lakh mobile connections were disconnected using the AI-powered ASTR (Artificial Intelligence and Facial Recognition for Telecom SIM Subscriber Verification) system. The ASTR technology has proven effective in identifying connections obtained through fake or forged documents. Authorities have blocked 5.1 lakh mobile handsets and disengaged 24.46 lakh WhatsApp accounts suspected of fraudulent activities. Additionally, 20,000 bulk SMS senders have been blacklisted to prevent mass fraudulent messaging campaigns. The CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) facility has secured over 35 lakh lost or stolen mobile devices. Of these, 21.35 lakh devices have been traced and 5.07 lakh successfully recovered and returned to their owners. The Sanchar Saathi portal has emerged as a crucial tool in the fight against telecom fraud, recording over 16 crore visitor hits with approximately 2 lakh daily users. The platform provides real-time data and enables citizens to report issues through features like "Not My Number" and "Not Required" services. The portal's CEIR facility allows users to report lost or stolen handsets for immediate blocking and tracing across all telecom operator networks. This ensures that stolen devices cannot be misused anywhere in India, with traceability features helping in recovery efforts. DGP Cyber Crime Telangana Sikha Goyal highlighted the state's exceptional performance in mobile phone recovery. "Telangana presently ranks first in recovery of mobile phones in the country. As of date, we have recovered and handed over to victims about 88,301 mobile phones," she stated. The success in Telangana was attributed to systematic training programs where modal officers were identified in each district and trained by state-level nodal officers from the CID. This structured approach has made Telangana a model for other states to follow. The government has taken decisive action against international spoofed calls through the CIOR (International Incoming Spoofed Calls Prevention System), launched in October 2024. Within 24 hours of deployment, the system blocked 1.35 crore spoofed calls, demonstrating immediate effectiveness. To combat evolving fraud tactics, telecom service providers have been instructed to display "International Call" notifications for all calls originating from outside India. This helps citizens make informed decisions about answering such calls. Additionally, 308 international carriers and aggregators repeatedly sending spoofed calls have been blocked. Complaints about international number fraud dropped from 2,776 cases in January 2025 to single-digit numbers by June 2025. The Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP) has created a secure network of 620 organizations working as national-level watchdogs. This includes central security agencies, 35 state police forces, telecom service providers, and GSTN, creating a comprehensive security ecosystem. The ASTR system has analyzed 134 crore mobile connections, leading to the disconnection of over 82 lakh fraudulent connections after reverification. The technology detects cases where mobile connections have been acquired using different demographic and KYC details but similar subscriber images, effectively identifying fake document usage. As part of enforcement actions, more than 71,000 points of sale have been blacklisted and 780 FIRs have been filed against fraudulent activities. (ANI) A man claiming to be Jay-Z's son, Rymir Satterthwaite, is dropping his federal lawsuit against the rapper. A man claiming to be Jay-Z's secret son has dropped his federal case against the music mogul Satterthwaite filed a notice of withdrawal on July 18, according to court documents obtained by Us Weekly. He also addressed his decision to withdraw in a video on social media, insisting he has not "stopped my fight". Satterthwaite said: "It has been a crazy couple of weeks. I have not stopped my fight." The man, who has not had a DNA test, confirmed: "I did withdraw my case. "It's a lot going on. "We got to step back and play chess, not checkers." The Roc Nation founder was granted a restraining order against Satterthwaite in 2022, for making so many "frivolous" claims to the court. Jay-Z's legal team also asked for the case to be dismissed on July 18. The Encore rapper - who has Blue Ivy, 13, and eight-year-old twins Rumi and Sir with wife Beyonce - accused the man who claims to be his son of "harassment". The 55-year-old star hit out at the "fabricated allegations" and asked a federal judge to intervene in the case. Jay-Z described the recent lawsuit filed by Satterthwaite as "just the latest" episode of "decades-long harassment" from the man and his godmother. Documents stated: "The fabricated allegations and claims have been addressed - and rejected - in multiple other courts, and continued harassment and disregard of those orders has already resulted in a contempt order." Satterthwaite, 32, filed a federal lawsuit against the music mogul - whose real name is Shawn Carter - in May and accused the star of trying to keep him quiet about his paternity. The man claims that his mother Wanda had relations with Jay-Z during the 1990s. After she passed away, Sattherthwaite was cared for by his godmother and says that the pair have faced "unrelenting efforts by (Jay-Z) and his enablers to suppress the truth and silence those who dared to speak it." He accused Jay-Z of refusing to take a paternity test not answering his claims directly. Sattherthwaite is adamant that he isn't pursuing fame and fortune with his legal case and just wants to discover the truth about his paternity. He told the Daily Mail last year: "Why can't he prove me wrong? "Go the courtroom and do what everyone else has to do. I can take a no. I can take being embarrassed. I just can't take him not saying anything. It is not fair." The ITU-APT Foundation of India (IAFI) has announced the appointment of its President, Bharat B Bhatia, as a Vice Chairman and Chair of the Editorial Committee of the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity's Conference Preparatory Group for WRC-27 (APG-27). IAFI works to encourage the involvement of professionals and various organisations in the activities of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Asia Pacific Telecommunity (APT). The nomination, proposed by the Chairman of APG27, was endorsed unanimously by the Heads of Delegation of 30 Asian countries. The appointment was officially confirmed during the plenary session held on July 28 in Pattaya, Thailand, the IAFI said in a statement. Bharat B Bhatia's new role as Editorial Chair is seen as a recognition of India's growing technical expertise and leadership in the international telecommunications landscape. Commenting on his appointment, Bhatia said, "Being entrusted with the Chair of the Editorial Committee at APG-27 is both a deep honour and a reflection of India's serious commitment to global spectrum governance. This recognition underscores the technical rigour and spirit of collaboration that IAFI brings to every international telecom forum." The 2nd Meeting of APG-27 (APG27-2), being held from July 28 to August 1, marks a pivotal moment in India's expanding influence in international spectrum policy.Established at the inaugural APG-27 meeting in Shanghai in June 2024, APG-27 serves as Asia-Pacific's coordinating body to develop regional consensus and common proposals on all spectrum regulations that will be considered at WRC-27, in particular spectrum for 6G and Direct to Device satellite services, among other 25 agenda items.India, through IAFI, submitted 20 detailed contributions covering WRC-27 Agenda Items 1.1 to 1.19 and Item 8. These inputs, finalised during India's National Preparatory Committee (NPC) meeting on July 11 and submitted by July 18, emphasised key issues such as IMT spectrum sharing studies, the inclusion of 6425-7125 MHz bands in Footnote 5.457D, and opposition to agenda items that could affect critical radio altimeter operations. Many of India's proposals were accepted with only minor editorial changes. (ANI) PNN New Delhi [India], July 29: Bangalore is all set to take center stage as it hosts one of the most prestigious international exhibitions in the agri-food sector--AgriTech India 2025, now in its landmark 16th edition. Organized by Media Today Group, the event will be held from August 1-3, 2025, at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC). Unfolding alongside India Foodex, GrainTech India, DairyTech India, BakeryTech India, and FloraTech India, this grand affair will transform BIEC into the largest integrated agri-food business hub in South Asia. This world-class exhibition will attract over 250 exhibitors from more than 20 countries, offering an unmatched platform for global knowledge exchange, innovation showcase, and cross-border collaborations. It promises high-impact B2B networking, connecting stakeholders ranging from farmers and agri-entrepreneurs to policymakers, international buyers, agri-tech innovators, and government delegations. Special focus will also be placed on agri-startups and MSMEs, enabling them to gain visibility, forge strategic partnerships, and scale their business ideas. Carrying forward a rich legacy of 15 years, this series of event has evolved into a powerful engine driving sustainable, climate-smart, and technology-enabled agriculture in India. This year's edition will feature an expansive display of technologies including next-gen farm machinery, protected cultivation systems, precision irrigation, fertigation, smart seeds and agrochemicals, as well as innovations in dairy, livestock, and post-harvest processing. What makes the 2025 edition even more dynamic is its impressive lineup of co-located shows. India Foodex will present a complete landscape of food processing, packaging, cold-chain logistics, and retail solutions. GrainTech India will highlight advanced milling machinery, food safety solutions, and grain storage systems. DairyTech India will showcase dairy innovations, animal health solutions, and feed management systems. BakeryTech India will put the spotlight on baking and confectionery advancements, while FloraTech India will celebrate breakthroughs in floriculture, nursery, and landscaping technologies. Together, these shows offer a holistic and futuristic view of the agri-food value chain. Further enriching the event are two high-impact summits. On August 2, the Indian Greenhouse Growers Conference (IGGC) will take place under the compelling theme "Cultivating Resilience." It will explore protected farming techniques such as greenhouse cultivation, hydroponics, fertigation, and post-harvest innovations, drawing participation from growers of fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, and medicinal plants across India and South Asia. On August 1, the Networking Summit on Innovations in Grain & Flour Milling will commemorate the 15th anniversary of GrainTech India, providing a focused forum for milling professionals to discuss trends in processing, packaging, warehousing, and lab technologies that are transforming the grain sector. This event is a strategic confluence of innovation, policy, and enterprise. It addresses the pressing challenges of agricultural productivity, climate resilience, market access, and technological adoption. Visitors can expect live demonstrations, smart farming showcases, and thematic pavilions tailored to current industry demands. With over 25,000 trade visitors expected, the event is the place to discover new market opportunities, amplify brand presence, and gain valuable insights into consumer trends, government initiatives, and global collaborations. This is where India's agricultural future takes shape--boldly, sustainably, and inclusively. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) India is witnessing a renewed surge in oil and gas exploration, particularly in offshore regions, underscoring the country's vast untapped hydrocarbon potential, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri told the Parliament on Tuesday. Puri in Rajya Sabha stated that the opening of nearly one million square kilometres of erstwhile 'No-Go' offshore areas in 2022 has been a landmark development. This move has unlocked significant exploration frontiers, especially in deepwater and frontier regions such as the Andaman-Nicobar (AN) offshore basin, and has been instrumental in triggering the current momentum in offshore activity, the Minister stated, according to the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. Since 2015, Exploration and Production (E&P) companies operating in India have reported 172 hydrocarbon discoveries, including 62 in offshore areas, he said. The Minister highlighted the geological significance of the Andaman-Nicobar basin, which lies within the Bengal-Arakan sedimentary system. He stated that the tectonic setting located at the boundary of the Indian and Burmese plates has led to the formation of numerous stratigraphic traps that are conducive to hydrocarbon accumulation. This geological promise is further amplified by the basin's proximity to proven petroleum systems in Myanmar and North Sumatra, he added. The region has attracted renewed global interest following significant gas discoveries in South Andaman offshore Indonesia, underlining the geological continuity across the region, he stated. While the favourable geology sets a strong foundation, Puri emphasised that the real breakthrough has come from the government's strategic policy interventions and a new exploration approach. "The revised strategy has enabled aggressive acquisition of seismic data, initiation of both stratigraphic and exploratory drilling, and increased engagement with international exploration partners, several of whom have shown keen interest in the newly accessible frontier blocks," the Minister added. Puri said that the national Oil Companies have planned to drill four offshore stratigraphic wells, including one in the AN basin. "These scientific wells are designed to test geological models, validate the existence of petroleum systems, and help de-risk future commercial exploration. Although commercial accumulations have not yet been confirmed, these efforts mark a major step forward in systematic and knowledge-driven hydrocarbon exploration," he added according to the Ministry's release. In a significant development, ONGC and Oil India Ltd (OIL) have launched an ambitious exploration campaign in the Andaman ultra-deepwater region. For the first time, drilling operations are targeting depths of up to 5000 metres. Providing an overview of the exploration outcomes so far, the Minister informed that ONGC has made hydrocarbon discoveries in 20 blocks, with an estimated reserve of 75 million metric tonnes of oil equivalent (MMTOE). OIL, on its part, has made seven oil and gas discoveries over the past four years, with reserves estimated at 9.8 million barrels of oil and 2,706.3 million standard cubic meters of gas. Referring to the Hydrocarbon Resource Assessment Study (HRAS) of 2017, which estimated the AN basin's hydrocarbon potential at 371 MMTOE, the Minister stated that a 2D broadband seismic survey covering approximately 80,000 Line Kilometres (LKM) of India's Exclusive Economic Zone, including the AN offshore region, was completed in 2024. Additionally, OIL acquired 22,555 LKM of 2D seismic data during the Deep Andaman Offshore Survey conducted in 2021-22. Several promising geological features have emerged from this data, which are now being validated through ongoing drilling campaigns by ONGC and OIL, Puri added in his reply. (ANI) Approved by the Bihar Cabinet last month, the policy introduces mandatory drone inspections and AI-powered monitoring for all state bridges. This replaces traditional manual inspections with advanced aerial assessments across the state's 3,968 bridges, prioritizing 45 high-risk structures identified in third-party audits by IIT Patna and IIT Delhi. Drones equipped with high-resolution 4K, thermal imaging, and LiDAR will conduct comprehensive scans of critical bridge components, including foundations, bearings, and decks, as mandated in the policy's technical standards. Artificial intelligence algorithms will analyze collected data to detect sub-millimeter cracks, corrosion, and erosion defects with 98.5 per cent accuracy. All inspection data automatically integrates with the Bridge Health Index (BHI) system to generate condition scores and public star ratings . Critical bridges scoring BHI below 20 will undergo immediate closure and repairs. During floods, drones will provide real-time stability assessments under the policy's "Exceptional Event Works" protocol. Nitin Nabin, Bihar PWD Minister, said, "Drones are our eyes in the sky, ensuring no crack goes unseen. Our policy mandates drone scans every 90 days for critical bridges - a first in the country. This eliminates human risk and ensures millimeter-level defect detection. By 2026, all 532 mega bridges will have digital twin models for lifetime monitoring, a transformational leap in public safety." Gurgaon-based firm Vital Environment India Pvt Ltd will execute the drone operations using DGCA-certified pilots. The RCD simultaneously trains 120 engineers to operate drones and interpret AI-generated defect analytics through its collaboration with IIT Delhi. Bridge Health Index reports derived from drone inspections will be publicly accessible via the Bridge Information Management System (BIMS) portal starting October 2025. (ANI) Sara looked gorgeous as she walked the ramp in a stunning soft rose gold lehenga with intricate floral embroidery. The outfit featured detailed work, combining pastel and metallic hues. The ''Metro...In Dino'' actress completed her look with soft waves in her hair, minimal makeup, and no heavy accessories, just letting the outfit do the talking. The outfit is part of Aisha Rao''s debut collection at the fashion week. The designs in the collection, described as "a love letter to the wild," were inspired by nature: banana leaves, lotus flowers, and palm motifs. Romantic cuts, shiny fabrics, and soft colors like rose gold, berry, and champagne made the collection stand out. Models walked the ramp in dreamy florals, structured blazers, and richly textured pieces. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMsqfXxt58S/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== India Couture Week 2025, presented by FDCI in association with Reliance Brands, opened on July 23 with a show by Rahul Mishra. Actress Tamannaah Bhatia walked the runway in his designs. The fashion week will conclude on July 30 with JJ Valaya''s presentation. Meanwhile, on the work front, Sara was last seen in the romantic drama ''Metro... In Dino'' opposite Aditya Roy Kapur. The film follows four contemporary couples across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. The film hit theaters on July 4. (ANI) Union Rural Development and Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has sent a letter to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami informing that more funds will be provided by the Central Government to Uttarakhand for the implementation of the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Program (DILRMP), the Chief Minister's office said in a press release. Appreciating the active participation of Uttarakhand with the Central Government in the efforts for positive change of rural India, Chouhan has expressed hope that under the able leadership of Chief Minister Dhami, Uttarakhand will set new records in the implementation of DILRMP in the state. It is noteworthy that CM Dhami had sent a letter to the Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan requesting to provide special assistance of Rs 478.50 crore to the state of Uttarakhand under the Central Sectoral Scheme of the Ministry of Rural Development. Mentioning the efforts and needs of the state under DILRMP, the Chief Minister has sought Rs 350 crore for survey/resurvey of the entire land of Uttarakhand state through modern survey technology like Lidar. It was also requested to approve the amount and release the outstanding amount for the construction of modern record rooms being built at the tehsil level. In this regard, the Union Rural Development and Agriculture Minister has sent a letter to the Chief Minister and informed that Uttarakhand will be provided full support in the work of pilot testing of survey/resurvey in five villages from the DILRMP funds available with the state. Based on the results of the pilot test, more funds will be provided to the state for the work of completing the survey/resurvey in all the rural areas in due course. The outstanding amount for the construction of modern record rooms being built at the tehsil level will also be released soon. Union Minister Chauhan has said that action is being taken at the level of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in the matter of providing financial assistance to the state under the Agri Stack program, and he himself is looking into the matter. CM Dhami said that along with implementing strong land laws in Uttarakhand, the state government is paying special attention to complete the important task of digitisation of land records in a timely manner. "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state of Uttarakhand is working with commitment to play a leading role in the nationwide campaign to develop a modern and transparent land management system in line with the vision of Digital India. The cooperation and support being provided by the Central Government in this direction will give more impetus to our efforts for which the state government is grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan," CM Dhami said. (ANI) The Delhi Police on Sunday dismissed the allegations made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee about a Bengali-speaking woman and her child being assaulted by Delhi Police officials, calling the viral video "fabricated" and "baseless." Addressing the media, Deputy Commissioner of Police (East Delhi) Abhishek Dhania said, "West Bengal CM posted on 'X' that a Bengali-speaking woman and her child were assaulted by the Delhi Police. Right after receiving the information, we initiated the inquiry and discovered that the lady's name is Sanjanu Parveen... During the interrogation, she said that on 26th July, around 10:30 pm, four policemen who were in their civil clothes came to their house and took them away to a secluded area where they beat them up and demanded Rs. 25,000 from them, which they gave them." The DCP stated that after seeing the seriousness of the crime, teams were formed. "Understanding the seriousness of the situation, we have formed multiple teams since last night. Based on technical and local intelligence, as well as CCTV footage, we have gathered various evidence. Based on that evidence, we found out that the whole story told by this lady is baseless..." "During the interrogation, she mentioned that her relative, who lives in the Malda district of West Bengal, is a political worker, and on his request, she made this baseless video and shared it with him. Later, he circulated the video in the local media... After a thorough investigation and inquiry, we have concluded that the entire video is baseless and fabricated. This video has been deliberately circulated on social media to tarnish the image of the Delhi Police. Further investigation is still going on," he added. Earlier, on July 27, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee posted the video on the social media platform X, expressing outrage over the alleged incident and wrote, "Atrocious!! Terrible!! See how Delhi police brutally beat up a kid and his mother, members of a migrant family from Malda's Chanchal. See how even a child is not spared from the cruelty of violence in the regime of linguistic terror unleashed by the BJP in the country against the Bengalis! Where are they taking our country now ?" (ANI) Targeting the Congress party and its efforts to stop cross-border terrorism, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Anurag Thakur on Monday accused Congress of repeatedly surrendering and compromising on counter-terrorism efforts. He cited the 1971 India-Pakistan war and asked why Indira Gandhi did not take back Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. BJP MP Anurag Thakur said, "We have seen several surrenders and 'bawandar' in history. In the war of 1971, 93 thousand Pakistani soldiers were asked to kneel down, but Indira Gandhi did not take back PoK. This shows how much surrender she had made at that time. Atal ji made the law of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) to crack down on terrorists. The UPA government came, and the POTA law was abolished." He further said, "Was Congress running human rights for terrorists?... Congress has always surrendered to Pakistan and terrorists, and Rahul Gandhi should answer what was the compulsion that it was necessary to surrender again and again..." Earlier also, BJP MP Anurag Thakur on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Congress after one of its senior leaders, P Chidambaram, claimed there was "no proof" that the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam terror attack came from Pakistan. Thakur questioned the party's apparent pro-Pakistan leanings, stating that even Pakistan does not defend itself as much as "Rahul-occupied Congress does." Speaking to ANI, Thakur said, "Whenever it's about Pakistan and terror, even Pakistan doesn't advocate for itself as much as Rahul-occupied Congress does. What is the compulsion that Congress has to take Pakistan's side? Such a statement, coming from a former Home Minister, reveals the mentality of the Congress." In a July 27 interview with the Quint news outlet, Chidambaram raised questions on whether the Government had taken any follow-up steps to prevent another Pahalgam. "Where are the terrorist attackers? Why have you not apprehended them? Why have you not even identified them? Suddenly, a news item emerges that we have arrested two or three people who gave them shelter. Now what happened to that?" Chidambaram asked. Further, the Congress leader who served as the Home Minister in the UPA tenure said, the Government was "unwilling to disclose what the NIA has done all these weeks. Have they identified the terrorists, and where did they come from? I mean, for all we know, they could be homegrown terrorists. Why do you assume that they came from Pakistan? There's no evidence of that. They are also hiding the losses." (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised the speeches delivered by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Parliament on the success of Operation Sindoor and India's fight against terrorism. Taking to social media, Prime Minister Modi described EAM Jaishankar's speech as "outstanding," noting that it effectively conveyed India's position on fighting terrorism. "The speech by EAM Dr. Jaishankar Ji was outstanding. He highlighted how the world has clearly heard India's perspective on fighting the menace of terrorism through Operation Sindoor," PM Modi posted on X. In another post, the Prime Minister mentioned Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and called it an "excellent speech." He posted on X, "An excellent speech by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh Ji, giving an insightful perspective on the success of India's security apparatus and the courage of our armed forces in Operation Sindoor." The Monday session was dedicated to Operation Sindoor as per the demand of the Opposition, and it was during this time that both the leaders gave their speeches in the Lok Sabha. Earlier, noting that Operation Sindoor marks a new face and a new normal in India's fight against cross-border terrorism, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday firmly rejected claims of any third-party mediation in cessation of hostilities between India and Pakistan and also said that at no stage, in any conversation with the United States, was there "any linkage with trade and what was going on". Jaishankar, who participated in the debate in the Lok Sabha on Operation Sindoor, stated that there are 193 nations in the United Nations, and only three countries, apart from Pakistan, opposed Operation Sindoor. The Minister, who gave point by point rebuttal to the points raised by the opposition, said India brought out to the international community Pakistan's long-standing use of cross-border terrorism. He rejected opposition criticism of the government following US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of mediation in ending hostilities between India and Pakistan. The Minister said there was no call between PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump from April 22 to June 17. Jaishankar said that on May 9, US Vice President JD Vance called Prime Minister Narendra Modi, warning of a massive Pakistani attack in the next few hours. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that in the midst of Operation Sindoor, on May 10, Pakistan "admitted defeat" and offered to cease hostilities. The Union Minister reiterated that Operation Sindoor has just paused, and it would resume if any misadventure occurs from Pakistan's side in the future. Addressing the lower house on Operation Sindoor, Singh said, "...On 10th May, when the Indian Air Force struck hard at multiple airfields in Pakistan, Pakistan admitted defeat (Pakistan ne haar maan li) and offered to cease hostilities. They spoke to our DGMO and asked to stop... This offer was accepted with the caveat that this Operation has only been paused. If any misadventure occurs from Pakistan's side in the future, this Operation will be resumed," as quoted in a release from the Ministry of Defence. As per the release, he informed the House that when the Indian Air Force struck heavy blows on multiple Pakistani airfields, Pakistan conceded defeat and offered to cease hostilities. "The offer was accepted with the caveat that the operation was only paused, and if there was any future misadventure on the part of Pakistan, it would lead to the resumption of the operation. The attacks by the Indian Air Force, strong retaliation by the Indian Army along the LoC and the fear of Naval attacks forced Pakistan to surrender. And this defeat of Pakistan was not simply a failure, but a defeat of its military strength and morale," he said. (ANI) On the occasion of Naga Panchami today, portals of Nagchandreshwar Mandir in Ujjain of Madhya Pradesh opened at midnight. The portals of this temple are opened only once a year on this auspicious occasion. Madhya Pradesh Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya also had darshan of Lord Nagchandreshwar at this temple today morning. "It is a matter of good fortune for all of us that we have had the darshan of Lord Nagchandreshwar once in a year on this land in the entire country. I have been coming here for many years, and now the number of visitors has increased significantly," Vijayvargiya told ANI. Vijayvargiya added, "The administration has made excellent arrangements so that everyone can have darshan. However, next year we will need to consider the arrangements more carefully to make it better." He also thanked the collector and administration for making good arrangements at the temple and prayed that the blessings of Lord Nagchandreshwar remain with everyone. Ahead of the Nag Panchami festival, proper arrangements are in place for the devotees to offer prayers to the once-in-a-year opening Nagchandreshwar Temple. The temple, situated atop the sanctum sanctorum of the Mahakaleshwar temple, is open for only 24 hours each year on the occasion of Nag Panchami. Speaking to ANI, Administrator of Mahakaleshwar Temple Management Committee, Pratham Kaushik elaborated about the arrangement for devotees and said, "The doors of Lord Nagachandreswar temple will open tonight at 12 o'clock and it will be opened to offer prayers for 24 hours. Complete arrangements are in place for the devotees visiting tonight. Proper drinking water facilities, shoe stands arrangement, and Prasad counters have also been prepared. Additionally, adequate lighting has been placed along the way to the temple." On the other hand, in view of Nagachandreswara darshan, entry to Mahakal temple will be allowed from trivedi gate via Mahakal Lok while entry from gate number 4 and Ganesh Dwar will remain close, he added. Nagchandreshwar Temple is an ancient temple and there is a very rare idol of Shiva-Parvati residing on Sheshnag along with Lord Ganesha and Kartikeya. It is believed that by worshipping here in the temple, both Shiva and Parvati are pleased and one overcomes the fear of snakes. There is also a tradition of feeding milk to a snake on Nag Panchami, so devotees offer milk to the idol of the snake here. Nag Panchami, traditionally observed on the fifth day of the Shukla Paksha of Shravan month, holds immense religious importance in Hinduism across India. It will be celebrated on July 29 this year. Devotees worship Nag Devta (the serpent god) and offer prayers for the well-being and welfare of their families. (ANI) Sami Sheen's OCD has caused her to "starve". Sami Sheen has OCD The 21-year-old model suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder and she finds it frustrating when people claim they have the condition - which features patterns of intrusive thoughts and fears that can lead to repetitive behaviours - and it compels them to "keep [their] room clean and organised" because the mental health problem has had a major impact on her life as she often refuses to eat food she's just bought because she's convinced it is inedible. She said in a TikTok post: "Nothing aggravates me more than when someone is like, 'Oh, my god. I'm so OCD I need to keep my room clean and organised.' "I'm so OCD that even if I buy something from the grocery store that day and I read the expiration date over and over and over and over again, somehow I will convince myself it's a fake expiration date and it's actually expired a year ago. "And if I eat it I'm going to get violently ill, so I have to throw it away and starve." The OnlyFans star - who is the daughter of Charlie Sheen and Denise Richards - sarcastically added the caption: "So fun! #ocd.(sic)" And Sami told how her OCD also has another impact on her eating habits. One user commented: My OCD is so bad that when I eat a sandwich I can not eat any parts that have been touched with my fingers." She replied: "oh same i thought everyone did that.(sic)" Meanwhile, Sami recently revealed her 20-year-old sister Lola has blocked her number because she is unimpressed with her support for the LGBTQ+ community. Sami said on TikTok earlier this month: "My mom did an amazing job raising me and my sister to be very accepting of everyone's sexuality and gender identity and everything else under the sun. "So, that's why it is so sad for me to see that my own sister is homophobic and transphobic now. But Sami is hopeful things will change in the future. She added: I really hope she snaps out of this eventually. Large numbers of devotees thronged ancient temples across the state on Tuesday to offer prayers on the occasion of Nag Panchami, a festival observed with deep devotion during the holy month of Sawan. In Prayagraj, devotees flocked to the historic Shri Nagvasuki Temple since early morning to perform rituals and offer milk and flowers to the serpent deity. The temple, situated on the banks of the Ganga, is one of the most prominent centres for Nag Panchami celebrations in northern India. Similarly, in Ayodhya, devotees visited the Pracheen Sheshavtar Shri Laxman Temple in significant numbers to seek blessings. Meanwhile, on the occasion of Naga Panchami, the portals of Nagchandreshwar Mandir in Ujjain of Madhya Pradesh opened at midnight. The portals of this temple are opened only once a year on this auspicious occasion. Earlier, Madhya Pradesh Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya also had darshan of Lord Nagchandreshwar at this temple. Speaking to ANI, Vijayvargiya said, "It is a matter of good fortune for all of us that we have had the darshan of Lord Nagchandreshwar once in a year on this land in the entire country. I have been coming here for many years, and now the number of visitors has increased significantly." He added, "The administration has made excellent arrangements so that everyone can have darshan. However, next year we will need to consider the arrangements more carefully to make it better." He also thanked the collector and administration for making good arrangements at the temple and prayed that the blessings of Lord Nagchandreshwar remain with everyone. Nag Panchami, traditionally observed on the fifth day of the Shukla Paksha of Shravan month, holds immense religious importance in Hinduism across India. It will be celebrated on July 29 this year. Devotees worship Nag Devta (the serpent god) and offer prayers for the well-being and welfare of their families. (ANI) The Congress party on Tuesday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not speaking out on the Gaza crisis, calling his silence "deeply disappointing" and the "height of moral cowardice." Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge repeated the views of Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, who wrote in an opinion piece in Dainik Jagran on Monday that the Modi-led government had been a "silent spectator in the Gaza crisis." In a post on X, Kharge said, "This is the height of moral cowardice. The time has come for him to raise a strong voice, in clear and bold words, on behalf of the legacy that India has represented. Today, the Global South is once again awaiting India's leadership on this issue that shakes the collective conscience of all humanity." He noted that India was among the first countries to recognise both the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) and the State of Palestine. "India has always been a supporter of a two-state solution and a just peace between Israel and Palestine. In 1974, under the leadership of Indira Gandhi, India became the first non-Arab country to recognise the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) as the sole and legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. In 1988, India was among the first countries to officially recognise Palestine. Amidst the ongoing atrocities by Israel on the people of Gaza, Prime Minister Modi's shameful silence is deeply disappointing," Kharge wrote. Sonia Gandhi, in her article, said the Gaza conflict had "exposed one of the most serious vulnerabilities in the global order." She criticised the lack of action on United Nations General Assembly resolutions calling for a permanent and unconditional ceasefire, saying these have been "completely ignored." Reiterating India being a "symbol of global justice" and inspiring anti-colonial movements, while raising a voice against imperialism, and specifically being a supporter of the two-state solution, the Congress leader called on the Prime Minister to speak up against the killing of more than 55,000 Palestinians, including 17,000 children. (ANI) A yellow alert for heavy rain has been issued in some districts of Uttarakhand on Tuesday, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). There is a possibility of lightning and thundershowers in other districts. Heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds, is likely to affect Nainital, Haridwar, Dehradun, and several other major areas through at least August 1. Meanwhile, on Monday, in view of the forecast of a low- to medium-level flood risk in various districts of Uttarakhand, the State Emergency Operations Centre in Dehradun has advised the District Magistrates (DMs) of all the concerned districts to take precautions. According to the forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), there is a possibility of waterlogging/flood threats in some places in the Almora, Bageshwar, Chamoli, Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital, Pauri, Pithoragarh, Rudraprayag, Tehri, and Uttarkashi districts over the next 24 hours due to heavy rains. "Traffic should be controlled while maintaining preparedness and security at every level. In the event of any disaster/accident, immediate on-site action should be taken, and information should be exchanged promptly. All the officers and departmental nodal officers nominated for the disaster management IRS system will remain on high alert," the letter signed by Deputy Secretary Mahavir Singh Parmar read. The Chamoli Police issued an advisory on Sunday, urging residents to remain alert as the water level of the Alaknanda River continues to rise due to ongoing rainfall in the region. In a statement shared on X, the police stated that the weather remains unstable and warned people to avoid areas near the riverbanks. "Currently, the weather is unstable, and due to continuous rainfall, the water level of the Alaknanda River is rising rapidly. The Chamoli Police appeal to people living near the riverbank to please stay vigilant and avoid going near the river. Your safety, our priority," Chamoli Police said. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Deoghar MP Nishikant Dubey on Tuesday expressed condolences over the deaths of several Kanwar Yatra devotees in a bus accident in Jharkhand''s Deoghar district, claiming that at least 18 people had lost their lives. "In my Lok Sabha constituency of Deoghar, during the Kanwar Yatra in the month of Shravan, 18 devotees lost their lives due to a bus and truck accident. May Baba Baidyanath Ji grant strength to their families to bear this grief," Dubey wrote on X. Earlier, Santhal Pargana Zonal Inspector General (IG) S K Sinha confirmed five deaths. "Five Kanwariyas have died in a road accident as their bus collided with a truck. Several others are injured. More details are awaited," Sinha told ANI. Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren also posted on X, expressing his grief and assuring support to the injured. "This morning, extremely sad news was received about the death of devotees travelling in a bus accident near Jamunia Chowk in the Mohanpur block of Deoghar. The district administration is providing relief and rescue operations along with medical facilities for the injured," Soren wrote. "May Baba Baidyanath grant peace to the souls of the devotees who died in the accident and give strength to the grieving families to bear this hour of sorrow," he added. According to police, the accident took place on Tuesday when a bus carrying devotees collided with a truck. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash. The Kanwar Yatra began on July 10. During this annual pilgrimage, devotees, known as Kanwariyas, collect holy water from rivers and walk long distances to offer it at Lord Shiva temples. Many observe fasts and perform rituals as part of their devotion. This year, the month of Sawan started on July 11 and will end on August 9. (ANI) MPs of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) on Tuesday continued their protest against the ongoing Special Intensive Revision in poll-bound Bihar, holding up cartoon posters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi shackling Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar to himself. MPs of the INDIA bloc have been protesting against the voter roll revision on since the commencement of the monsoon session on July 21 both in an outside of Parliament. Multiple political leaders including Congress MPs Gaurav Gogoi, Manickam Tagore, Hibi Eden, DMK MP Kanimozhi, JMM MP Mahua Maji, RJD MP Manoj Jha protested in the ongoing rain ahead of the commencement of today's session in Parliament, holding up posters and demanding a halt to the exercise. Earlier today, Congress MP Manickam Tagore on X a cartoon, mocking the Election Commission of India (ECI) in connection with the recent controversy over the SIR. The cartoon portrays a man labelled "EC" dressed in uniform and shackled, holding what resembles an EVM (Electronic Voting Machine), with a speech bubble saying "YES SIR." The tweet was captioned with a single, sharp hashtag: #SIR, a clear reference to the recent allegations by opposition parties that the ECI is functioning under pressure from the central government, especially in light of developments in Bihar.Tagore has accused the Centre, led by BJP of misusing the Election Commission as a political tool to disenfranchise marginalised communities, including the poor, Dalits, and backward castes. He has alleged that more than 56 lakh voters are being removed from the voter list in Bihar after the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision and termed it an "attack" on democracy. Party's leader Randeep Surjewala moved a notice for Suspension of Business in the Upper House of the Parliament, deamdning a discussion on SIR. Writing to the Secretary-General, Rajya Sabha, Surjewala, stated, "I hereby give notice under Rule 267 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) of my intention to move the following motion for the suspension of business listed for 29 July 2025." Meanwhile, the Upper House of the Parliament will today hold a discussion on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. According to sources, Union Ministers Rajnath Singh and S Jaishankar will address the Rajya Sabha during the discussion, while Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge will open the debate for the party. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will also address the Lok Sabha today. The source said that Home Minister Amit Shah will address the Lok Sabha between 12:00 to 1:00 pm on Tuesday. (ANI) Five fishermen from Rameswaram were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy on Tuesday for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) while fishing. According to the State Secretary of the Fishermen Association, NJ Bose, the fishermen had ventured out to sea on Monday despite fears of repeated violations by the Sri Lankan Navy. "Fearing to go fishing due to the ongoing violations by the Sri Lankan Navy, the fishermen set out from Rameswaram yesterday, more than 360 boats," Bose told ANI. The fishermen were operating in the Gulf of Mannar, in waters between Dhanushkodi and Thalaimannar, when the Sri Lankan Navy intercepted them. A mechanised boat owned by a local fisherman named Justin was seized, and the five fishermen on board were detained. The arrested individuals have been identified as Justin (56) and Mobin (20) from Thangachimadam, Simon (53) from Rameswaram, and Denison (36) and Shekar (30) from Pamban--all residents of the Rameswaram area. Bose claimed, "They are being taken to the Mannar Navy camp for questioning." He added that the incident has triggered unrest among the fishing community in Rameswaram. This comes just a week after a similar incident, when four Rameswaram fishermen were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy while fishing in the same region. They were on board the motorboat IND-TN-10-MM-1072, owned by M Muniyasamy of Rameswaram. The arrested fishermen--Thangaraj (40), T. Lingam (59), Selvam (50), and Irulandi (50)--all from Veppangulam in Rameswaram, were also taken to the Mannar Navy camp for interrogation. Reacting to last week's arrests, CR Senthilvel, State Secretary of the Sea Workers' Union, had said, "Our 4 fishermen from Rameshwaram who went for fishing were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy, and even one of their boats was captured. Our fishermen were fishing in the Indian borders near Dhanushkodi. The question is whether our Indian Military is doing security work in this region. Our Indian Navy failed to protect our fishermen. The Indian government is simply watching the arrest of our fishermen by the Sri Lankan navy, which is also coming into our borders. This has been usual. These regional fishermen's livelihoods were hugely affected. The Indian government should interfere in this," said Senthilvel. Earlier this month, on July 13, seven Indian fishermen were also detained by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly fishing across the maritime boundary. According to the Rameswaram Fishermen Association, they were operating the boat 'IND-TN-10-MM-746', belonging to V Isaac Paul of Thangachimadam. The arrested fishermen were identified as P Tuthar (40) of Thangachimadam Raja Nagar, P Edison (51) of Thangachimadam Walasai Street, Shanmugam (50) of Rameswaram TSM Nagar, Sakthivel (47), Jagadish (48), Dalvin Raj (46), and Anbazhagan of Manthope. They were taken to the Kankesanthurai port in Sri Lanka for questioning. The association also stated that on the day of the July 13 incident, around 456 fishing boats had ventured into the sea after obtaining proper permits from the Rameswaram fishing port. (ANI) Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O Panneerselvam on Tuesday urged the Centre to release 2,151 crore for the 2024-25 Samagra Shiksha Scheme, according to a statement. The Samagra Shiksha Scheme is being implemented jointly by the Central and State Governments with the primary objectives of ensuring quality education for children studying from pre-primary to higher secondary levels, increasing student enrollment, providing equal opportunities for all children, and reducing social and gender disparities. The funding pattern for this scheme has been fixed at 60% from the Central Government and 40% from the State Government. Responding to a question raised in the Lok Sabha regarding the Samagra Shiksha funding, the Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Jayant Chaudhary, stated that an amount of 2,151 crore meant for Tamil Nadu under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme for the year 2024-2025 has been withheld, citing the reason that the Tamil Nadu Government has not complied with the proposed policy framework. According to the statement from Panneerselvam, nearly 6.5 million students studying in private schools and 600,000 private school teachers are expected to benefit from this scheme. With the central funding now withheld, many private schools are facing severe financial distress. Moreover, several activities, such as teacher training programs and sanitation efforts in schools, which are usually supported by the scheme, have come to a standstill. Furthermore, O Panneerselvam stated in a release that, due to the Central Government's decision, private schools are now unable to admit 25% of students under the Right to Education (RTE) Act for the current year. Not only that, but the education of those students currently studying under the RTE provision in private schools has also come under uncertainty. While the Central Government claims that the State has not accepted its conditions, withholding funds on this basis has directly impacted the innocent and underprivileged students and teachers. This action deserves strong condemnation. The Central Government's stance violates both the Right to Education Act and the principles of cooperative federalism. Considering the adverse impact this decision has on the education of backwards, most backwards, scheduled caste, tribal, and economically disadvantaged students and teachers, the AIADMK's Rights Restoration Committee strongly urged the Central Government to immediately release the 2,151 crore allocated under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme for the year 2024-2025. (ANI) The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, under the leadership of Professor B S Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, inaugurated a deeply meaningful and transformative cultural initiative titled 'Bandhan - A Cultural Immersion with Local Family of Jammu' at the Mandapam Auditorium, Jagti Campus. According to a release, this first-of-its-kind initiative marks a pioneering step in promoting emotional connection, social learning, and celebrating the vibrant Dogri heritage of the Jammu region. The Inaugural ceremony was graced by Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, along with other noted dignitaries. Rooted in the heart of Jammu, the City of Temples, Bandhan is a first-of-its-kind cultural immersion initiative launched by IIM Jammu to promote social sensitisation, community bonding, and celebration of Dogri culture and heritage. This unique program offers students a transformative learning experience by bridging academic rigour with grassroots realities. To begin with, 412 first-year MBA students will participate, with students grouped in 4-5 and hosted by local families. More than 100 families have already shown interest, and 100 families joined the institute today for the formal launch, showcasing overwhelming community support for this powerful cultural movement. The inauguration began with a traditional tilak, garlanding, and arti ceremony, expressing mutual respect and welcome, followed by a campus tour that introduced families to IIM Jammu's academic facilities, including the Nalanda Library, modern classrooms, and the Vedanta MDP Centre. Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, warmly welcomed all attendees, calling Bandhan a long-awaited dream realised-- "a day of joy, pride, and purpose." Reflecting on the remarkable journey of IIM Jammu, he shared how the institute has grown from just 47 students in 2018 to becoming one of the fastest-growing third-generation IIMs in the country. He graciously acknowledged IIM Jammu's remarkable milestone as the only second-and third-generation IIM to receive both the EFMD Program Accreditation for its MBA Program and the BGA Institutional Accreditation in the same year--underscoring commitment to academic excellence and global standards. He expressed gratitude to the Government of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their unwavering support in building a strong educational ecosystem in the region of Jammu and Kashmir with IIM Jammu working in close synergy alongside IIT Jammu and AIIMS Jammu. Describing Bandhan as more than a cultural exchange, Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, called it "a soulful bridge that connects people, not just places--a step toward nation-building through empathy and tradition." He positioned IIM Jammu as Mini India with a Global Vision--deeply rooted in Dogra heritage and aligned with the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat mission. He proudly shared that more than 100 families have shown interest in this unique program to promote Jammu's Dogri culture and heritage. To begin with, 412 first-year MBA students of IIM Jammu will participate in this initiative. More than 100 families are joining today in the launch of the program, reflecting the enduring spirit of Dogra hospitality and cultural pride. "Bandhan stands for--where hearts meet, stories unfold, and the soul of India is reflected through cultural amalgamation," he concluded. The ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries who lauded the initiative. Padma Dr. Jitendra Udhampuri, a renowned Dogri scholar, brought poetic elegance to the ceremony as he spoke of Jammu as a land where culture lives in every home and tradition. Reflecting on India's freedom and the national flag, he highlighted the unity in diversity that defines the nation. He urged the youth to carry forward the spirit of Duggar Pradesh, reminding them that "the future belongs to those who remember their roots while dreaming of the skies." Lt. Gen. Rakesh Kapoor (Retd.) President, J & K Ex Services League commended IIM Jammu and the leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, calling it one of the country's finest institutions. He emphasised the need for deeper cultural immersion and suggested adopting widows and their children as a social initiative. Citing heroes like Gen. Zorawar Singh and Brig. Rajinder Singh urged the integration of Jammu's military legacy into academic discourse. Sojanya Sharma, a Former Civil Servant, spoke of Jammu's rich heritage--from the tales of Jambu Lochan to historic routes like Katra-Jagti--and invited students to explore the cultural and spiritual soul of the region. Maj. Gen. Sunita Kapoor (Retd.), Executive Member, J & K Ex Services League, highlighted Duggar Pradesh's traditions of revering women, such as Kanya Pujan and Jashakti Puja, emphasising the region's cultural balance of Shakti and Shiva. Padma Shri Dr. S.P. Verma lauded Bandhan as a bridge across generations and cultures, drawing parallels with Gandhian ideals and Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. He emphasised the importance of preserving and promoting Dogra heritage and announced his intent to internationalise the Bandhan initiative by involving Dogras living abroad, deepening global community engagement and cultural exchange. Praveen Pargal, President, Laghu Udyog Bharti, J & K, praised Bandhan's vision and urged students to celebrate local festivals like Lohri and visit fairs like Baba Jitto Mela and Chamyal Mela and explore sites like Akhnoor Fort. Dr. Alka Sharma, a Women's rights Activist, described Bandhan as a bond of love and belonging, inviting students to experience Dogra hospitality and traditional dishes like saag and rajma chawal. "You'll become one of us," she said warmly. Rakesh Wazir, Chairperson, PHD Chamber of Commerce (Jammu Region) and President, Hotel and Restaurant Association, Katra, praised the visionary approach of the Director, IIM Jammu and IIM Jammu's world-class infrastructure, noting it surpasses even five-star experiences and proposed hosting 100 students for immersive cultural and culinary experiences. He echoed the vision of PM Narendra Modi, emphasising that true love lies in sacrifice and community spirit. Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean, Faculty and Research, IIM Jammu, described Jammu as both the City of Temples and a rising hub of higher education. He highlighted IIM Jammu's rapid growth, the introduction of diverse programs, and its pursuit of global accreditations, including a move towards the prestigious Triple Crown International Accreditation. Emphasising local collaboration, he reaffirmed the institute's commitment to blending Indian values with global academic standards. As part of Bandhan, students of IIM Jammu engage in a thoughtfully curated series of experiential activities that immerse them in the cultural and social fabric of the region. The initiative begins with home visits, where students are warmly welcomed into local households, sharing authentic home-cooked meals and engaging in heartfelt conversations that reflect the warmth and hospitality of Dogra culture. Through story-sharing sessions, students and host families exchange personal journeys--stories of resilience, values, and aspirations--building powerful emotional bonds rooted in mutual respect. Students also participate in a variety of cultural activities, immersing themselves in traditional rituals, folk music, crafts, and culinary practices, gaining hands-on exposure to the rich heritage of Jammu. These experiences are followed by reflective sessions, including group discussions, presentations, and written reflections, where students internalise and articulate the insights gained during their cultural immersion. The impact of this initiative is both deep and far-reaching. It fosters empathy and cultural awareness, enabling students to understand the nuances of local traditions and socio-economic realities. Bandhan also strengthens the connection between IIM Jammu and the local community, reinforcing mutual goodwill and cooperation. Most importantly, it contributes to the personal growth of students, nurturing humility, gratitude, and a broadened worldview--hallmarks of socially responsible and culturally grounded leadership. Prof. Nitin Upadhyay, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu, delivered the vote of thanks, reaffirming Bandhan as a platform where the boundaries between classroom and community dissolve to create holistic and transformative learning. The ceremony ended with a standing ovation for the dignitaries and the first of its kind, the unique Bandhan initiative, followed by the National Anthem. This was followed by a group photograph. The master of the ceremony was Ankush Varma, CIO, CEISD, Srinagar Campus, IIM Jammu, who extended a warm welcome to all the dignitaries and everyone present on the occasion. Through Bandhan, IIM Jammu reaffirms its commitment to nurturing intellectually sound, culturally rooted, and emotionally grounded leaders. The initiative aligns strongly with the spirit of Viksit Bharat, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and stands as a model for how education can become a tool for human connection, cultural preservation, and mindful leadership. (ANI) Proceedings of Lok Sabha began on Tuesday morning to continue discussion on Operation Sindoor for the second day with Union Home Minister Amit Shah set to address the Lower House today. According to government source, Home Minister Amit Shah will address the Lok Sabha between 12:00 and 1:00 PM. This is the seventh day of the ongoing monsoon session. Minutes after it was convened at 11 am, Rajya Sabha got adjourned till 2 PM. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to deliver his speech in the evening, according to a government source. Meanwhile, the upper house plans to hold a 16-hour-long discussion on Op Sindoor today. According to sources, Rajnath Singh and S Jaishankar will be among the ministers participating in the discussion in the Rajya Sabha. PM Modi is also expected to intervene in the debate. The largest opposition party, Congress, has been allotted approximately two hours for discussion. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge will open the debate for them. The Lok Sabha on Monday afternoon began discussion on 'India's strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor', launched in response to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The debate was initiated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The lower house held a discussion on india's military response, amid the opposition's demand for the same. The discussion concluded around 1 am, with the opposition and ruling party leaders at loggerheads with each other. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took a swipe at the opposition during discussion on Operation Sindoor in Lok Sabha, stating that focus must not remain on small issues when aiming to achieve a higher feat, since it can divert attention from national security. "When the aim is to go higher, we should not pay attention to small issues because focusing on issues that remain comparatively small can divert attention from national security," Singh said while addressing the lower house of Parliament on Operation Sindoor. Meanwhile, Deputy Leader Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogai hit out at the BJP-led government on Monday over the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir and said it has been over 100 days since the horrendous April 22 incident, but the government "hasn't been able to catch those five terrorists" who carried out the terror attack in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed. Participating in the debate on 'India's strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to terrorist attack in Pahalgam' in Lok Sabha, Gogoi slammed the government for stopping Operation Sindoor after Pakistan capitulated and asked why it did not go further and reclaim the territory illegally occupied by the neighbouring country. Gogoi spoke immediately after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who initiated the debate. Opposition parties have been demanding a discussion on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor and have sought the government's clarification over US President Donald Trump's repeated claims that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to address the Lok Sabha between 5:00 and 6:00 PM. Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to speak at 12:00 PM, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will open the Rajya Sabha debate at 2:00 PM. (ANI) The Mumbai Police's Anti Narcotics Cell (ANC) arrested three people in the Andheri JB circle area for possessing over Rs two crore worth of the "ISIS drug" Tramadol tablets, police officials said on Tuesday. Sources said that based on the information received by the Azad Maidan unit of Mumbai ANC, the ANC team raided the Andheri JB Circle area and arrested three people and recovered 1,11,440 Tramadol tablets from them. The arrested accused have been identified as Pratik Upadhyay, Yogesh Singh, and Bhavesh Shah. "They used to supply drugs through couriers," the sources said. The value of the seized drugs in the international market is Rs 2 crore, the sources said. Tramadol, a painkiller, was declared as a "psychotropic substance" by the Centre in 2018. Tramadol is an opioid analgesic of the same family of drugs as medications like oxycodone and hydrocodone, considering its misuse for addiction purposes. The governmentdeclared it as a psychotropic substance in April 2018, according to a statement by the Ministry of Finance. Earlier on July 4, in one of the largest crackdowns on the illegal pharmaceutical trade, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) dismantled an international drug trafficking syndicate operating across four continents, using encrypted digital platforms, cryptocurrency, and anonymous shipping networks. According to an official statement, the breakthrough began with the interception of a vehicle near Bengali Market in Delhi on May 25, 2025, ultimately uncovering a vast transnational operation with links to India, the US, Australia, and Europe. According to sources, subsequent leads led NCB to a stockist in Roorkee and an associate in Delhi's Mayur Vihar. Further investigation uncovered a key contact in Udupi, Karnataka, who managed bulk orders for exports. Analysis of seized data from Udupi revealed 50 international consignments: 29 within the US, 18 within Australia, and one each to Estonia, Spain, and Switzerland. This intelligence was shared with international counterparts and the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol). (ANI) Finn Wolfhard has announced details of his 2025 UK and European tour. Finn Wolfhard has announced details of his 2025 UK and European tour Titled Objection!, it is in support of the 21-year-old Stranger Things actors debut solo album Happy Birthday. Finn, who previously fronted the bands Calpurnia and The Aubreys, released the album in June, accompanied by the nostalgic lead single Choose The Latter and the reflective track Trailers After Dark. He will kick off the Objection! tour on 4 October with a show at La Maroquinerie in Paris, before continuing through Berlin, Manchester and Dublin. The run will conclude with a headline performance at Londons Electric Brixton on 16 October. Speaking to NME earlier this year, Finn reflected on the creative process behind the album and credited his Stranger Things co-stars Joe Keery and Maya Hawke as key musical influences. He said: (Joe) was a gigantic inspiration to me and another mentor. While filming, Joe and Maya were part of a fun group chat challenge where they would both write and submit a song every week. And I still text Joe to ask him what he thinks about song ideas. Im hoping we can make music together even if I wasnt credited. Joe, 32, who plays Steve Harrington in Stranger Things, performs under the moniker Djo and released his third album The Crux in 2023. Finn joined Joe on stage in Toronto earlier this year for a live performance of Flash Mountain, a track from Djos 2019 debut album Twenty Twenty. The actors tour news arrives alongside the continued expansion of the Stranger Things franchise. A new animated spin-off, Stranger Things: Tales From 85, is in production at Netflix. The show is being executive-produced by Matt Duffer and Ross Duffer, alongside Shawn Levy, 55, who directed Deadpool and Wolverine. No casting or plot details have yet been confirmed. In a statement to Netflixs Tudum, the Duffer brothers said: Weve always dreamed of an animated Stranger Things in the vein of the Saturday morning cartoons that we grew up loving, and to see this dream realised has been absolutely thrilling. They continued: We couldnt be more blown away by what Eric Robles and his team have come up with the scripts and artwork are incredible, and we cant wait to share more with you! The adventure continues . Meanwhile, UP CM arrived in Varanasi yesterday chaired a key review meeting with public representatives from the Varanasi and Azamgarh divisions at the Circuit House auditorium, a press release from Uttar Pradesh CMO said. In one-on-one interactions, CM Yogi discussed local needs, development priorities, and the status of ongoing schemes in each constituency. The focus was on accelerating development in public utility services and ensuring attention to remote areas. During the review, Chief Minister Yogi examined constituency-wise proposals related to the Public Works, Urban Development, and Tourism departments. He instructed the Principal Secretary (PWD) to promptly assess submissions from public representatives, prepare estimates, complete the necessary formalities, and commence work without delay. Priority is to be given to essential roads, bridges, and culverts, particularly those linking industrial areas, block headquarters, and religious or tourist sites. Other proposed works, he added, will be executed in phases. CM Yogi also instructed officials to include the representatives' proposals in the Urban Development Department's upcoming projects. Tourism-related proposals from both divisions were reviewed, and directions were issued for their prompt execution. These projects include connecting roads to block headquarters, interlinking roads, access roads to religious sites, ROBs, bypasses, flyovers, bridges, culverts, ODR/MDR roads, black spot improvements, and pontoon bridges. These infrastructure improvements aim not only to enhance connectivity but also to stimulate local economic growth. Reaffirming the government's commitment, the Chief Minister stated that every public utility and development project would be given a concrete form, with clear accountability established for timely and quality execution. The meeting was attended by several key ministers, including Anil Rajbhar, Om Prakash Rajbhar, Dara Singh Chauhan, Dayashankar Singh, Ravindra Jaiswal, Dr Dayashankar Mishra 'Dayalu', Girish Chandra Yadav, and Danish Azad Ansari, along with Legislative Council members and MLAs from the Varanasi and Azamgarh divisions. (ANI) Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav on Tuesday hailed the remarkable success the country has made in its efforts in tiger conservation. "With 58 reserves and 3,682 tigers, we have emerged as an example for the world in tiger conservation. Tiger conservation is not just about saving the species. Their rising numbers also symbolise the health of the forests they inhabit. Let us pledge to protect our tigers and their ecosystems which also support livelihood opportunities for communities," the minister said on his social media platform X. The International Tiger Day is observed globally on July 29 every year to preserve tigers' natural habitats and raise public awareness and support for conservation efforts worldwide. Speaking to ANI, he said, "Under the leadership of PM Modi, the number of Tiger Reserves in our country was 47 in 2014, and it is now 58. We have not only increased the number of tigers under the leadership of the PM, but along with the number of tigers, we have also expanded their reserve area." Yadav also mentioned the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) and said, "...Under his (PM Modi) leadership, India is moving ahead with the International Big Cat Alliance. By connecting 97 countries worldwide through IBCA, we are advancing our work in capacity building, eco-tourism, biodiversity protection, conservation, and knowledge sharing. Protecting our natural heritage alongside development is also our responsibility." On the occasion of International Tiger Day this year, a week-long exhibition has been organised at the Delhi Zoo. On this, Yadav stated that awareness and consciousness regarding nature are important among school students. Yadav said, "We are not only informing the children in schools about tigers by calling them, but also through this exhibition, while we are working to create a sense of consciousness towards nature in their minds by visiting our tribal culture and the Delhi Zoo." He also emphasised the importance of 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign and said, "Today, under the 'Ek Ped Maa ke Naam' campaign, we have planted 2 lakh trees simultaneously across all 58 Tiger Reserves...good nurseries will be built to move this campaign forward" Speaking on the green Aravali movement, he added, "On 5th June in Delhi, the PM had resolved that we will promote the green Aravali. And that is why we will establish good nurseries in the 29 districts of the green Aravali, which will cultivate native trees." Yadav today virtually inaugurated three nurseries in Delhi and stated that they will establish good nurseries in all 29 districts and advance the green Aravali movement. According to the National Tiger Reserve Authority, "The overall tiger population in India was estimated at 2,967 (SE range 2,603 to 3,346). Out of this, 83% were actually camera trapped individual tigers and 87% were accounted for by camera-trap based capture-mark-recapture and remaining 13% estimated through covariate based models. Tigers were observed to be increasing at a rate of 6% per annum in India when consistently sampled areas were compared from 2006 to 2018." The declaration to celebrate this day was made on July 29, 2010, in St. Petersburg, aiming to unite all tiger range countries in a concerted effort to enhance tiger conservation and management worldwide. This day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by these magnificent creatures and the efforts being made to safeguard their future. (ANI) BJP MLC Parinay Fuke emphasised the importance of balancing personal expression with professional responsibilities regarding the newly issued guidelines by the Maharashtra government that aims to regulate social media use among government employees. On Tuesday, the Maharashtra government had issued new social media usage guidelines for its employees, warning that disciplinary action will be taken against anyone violating the new rules in order to curb any potential dissemination of confidential information. BJP MLC Fuke urged all employees to comply with the new directives. "The government employees had been misusing the social media platforms for self-glorification. They were misusing government houses, uniforms and offices... A circular has been issued in this regard... I request everyone to obey it, " Fuke told ANI The new guidelines will be applicable to officers and employees of the Maharashtra government, including anyone on a contractual basis or by delegation; employees in local bodies, boards, corporations, and public undertakings. As per the new guidelines issued by Maharashtra, employees should not criticise the policies or actions of the state government, and of any other government in India The General Administration Department of the Maharashtra issued a circular on July 28 under the Maharashtra Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1979, saying that the increasing prevalence and convenience of social media sites and instant messaging, like Facebook, Linkedin, X, YouTube, WhatsApp, and Telegram, have created the "dangers" of dissemination of confidential information and spreading of misleading information, the statement said. However, the government has allowed employees to use messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Telegram to coordinate and contact with others for 'intra-office work.' The rules state that all state government employees, even contractual employees, should "use social media consciously and responsibly" and keep their work and personal social media accounts separate. The state's general administration department has also said that officers and employees might post about successful efforts regarding any schemes or initiatives; however, the posts should not be done for self-praise but rather to highlight the schemes. Similarly, with any text posts made, the government has said to focus on the initiatives rather than praise. The rules have banned the employees from showing government logos, uniforms, official vehicles, or other buildings in photos except for in profile photos of one's account. According to the notification, the General Administration department has also said that only an authorised person will be allowed to use the official government social media accounts. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday condoled the death of atleast 5 people in a road accident in Jharkhand's Deoghar, expressing his condolences to the families of the deceased and praying for the speedy recovery of the injured, the Prime Minister's Office said on Tuesday. "The road accident that occurred in Deoghar, Jharkhand, is extremely tragic. I express my deepest condolences to the families of the devotees who lost their lives in this incident. May God grant them the strength to bear this pain. Along with this, I pray for the speedy recovery of all the injured," the Prime Minister's Office posted on X. https://x.com/PMOIndia/status/1950058544176517618 At least five devotees undertaking the Kanwar Yatra were killed and several others injured after a bus carrying them collided with a truck in Deoghar district of Jharkhand on Tuesday, police said. According to Santhal Pargana Zonal Inspector General (IG) S K Sinha, the incident took place early this morning."Five Kanwariyas have died in a road accident as their bus collided with a truck. Several others are injured," Sinha told ANI. Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren expressed his grief and assured support to the injured. "This morning, extremely sad news was received about the death of devotees travelling in a bus accident near Jamunia Chowk in the Mohanpur block of Deoghar. The district administration is providing relief and rescue operations along with medical facilities for the injured," Soren posted on X However, Deoghar's Member of Parliament, and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Nishikant Dubey claimed that at least 18 people had lost their lives. "In my Lok Sabha constituency of Deoghar, during the Kanwar Yatra in the month of Shravan, 18 devotees lost their lives due to a bus and truck accident. May Baba Baidyanath Ji grant strength to their families to bear this grief," Dubey wrote on X. The Kanwar Yatra began on July 10. During this annual pilgrimage, devotees, known as Kanwariyas, collect holy water from rivers and walk long distances to offer it at Lord Shiva temples. Many observe fasts and perform rituals as part of their devotion. This year, the month of Sawan started on July 11 and will end on August 9. (ANI) According to police, the encounter between joint forces of the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Special Task Force (STF) and Naxalites is underway. Further details on the operation are awaited. Earlier on Sunday, four bodies of uniformed Naxals were recovered by security forces during a joint operation in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district, a senior police official said. According to Inspector General of Police (Bastar range) P Sundarraj, multiple security units are involved in anti-Naxal efforts across the state. These include the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), Bastar Fighters, Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and others. "DRG, STF, Bastar Fighters, COBRA, CRPF, BSF, ITBP, SSB, CF and other security forces are continuously carrying out operations against Naxals. As part of that, on 26 July, in the Bijapur District, Bijapur DRG and other security forces conducted a joint operation against the illegal Naxal outfit leaders... After the operation, bodies of four uniformed Naxals were recovered by the forces... DRG, COBRA and CRPF joint teams are carrying out search operations in the nearby areas," Sundarraj said in a statement. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat on Tuesday strongly criticised the opposition for its stance during the ongoing debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha, accusing it of undermining the morale of the armed forces and appearing to align with Pakistan's narrative. She took a swipe at Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. Speaking to ANI, Sehrawat said, "The way the opposition is raising questions (on Operation Sindoor) is unfortunate... The opposition seems to be standing with Pakistan. Rahul Gandhi did not clap when the army was talked about, even after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh asked him twice. The opposition works to lower the morale of the country's army." Operation Sindoor, a counter-terror initiative launched in Jammu and Kashmir, has been a flashpoint in the ongoing monsoon session, with opposition leaders demanding more transparency and questioning the government's long-term strategy. BJP members, in turn, have accused the opposition of politicising national security and failing to support the armed forces. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday confirmed that three terrorists who were involved in the killing of civilians were eliminated by the security forces during Operation Mahadev. Shah said this as he began his address in Lok Sabha amid the ongoing debate on Operation Sindoor and informed that those who killed our citizens in the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack have been killed. "In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," Shah said while addressing the lower house. "Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families by asking their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones," he added. On Monday, three terrorists were killed in Operation Mahadev in an intense firefight with security forces in the Harwan area near Dachigam National Park of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir. During the discussion on Operation Sindoor in Parliament, BJP MP Baijayant Jay Panda told the House that it appears that at least one terrorist involved in the Pahalgam attack has been neutralised in an ongoing anti-terror operation, Mahadev, in Jammu and Kashmir. MP Panda said, "As we were debating this issue today, some of us must have seen in the news that an Operation Mahadev is being conducted in Jammu and Kashmir, targeted at terrorists and it appears that at least one of those eliminated today was involved in the Pahalgam attack. "The anti-terror Operation Mahadev took place in the general area of Lidwas, Chinar Corps of the Indian Army said."OP MAHADEV - Contact established in General Area Lidwas. Operation in progress," the Chinar Corp said in a previous post on X. (ANI) Congress MP Manish Tewari on Tuesday offered a cryptic response when asked about his social media post that stirred speculation over his exclusion from the Lok Sabha debate on Operation Sindoor. In a brief but telling remark, Tewari said, "There is a saying in English- 'If you don't understand my silences, you will never understand my words'. " His statement follows a post earlier in the day on X, where he shared a media report about Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and himself from the list of Congress speakers during the Operation Sindoor discussion in Parliament. Notably, both Tewari and Tharoor had been part of the government's all-party delegations. In the caption of the post, the Congress MP conjured Manoj Kumar's patriotic song from "Purab aur Pashchim", "Hai preet jahaan ki reet sada, main geet wahaan ke gaata hoon, Bharat ka rehne waala hoon, Bharat ki baat sunata hoon. Jai Hind." Congress leaders Shashi Tharoor and Manish Tewari, who were part of Operation Sindoor Outreach, India's diplomatic efforts to brief foreign governments on the necessity of Operation Sindoor and highlight Pakistan's complicity in terrorism, were excluded from the list of speakers for the Parliament discussion on Operation Sindoor. The sources said that while Manish Tewari had sent a request to the party to speak during the debate, Tharoor conveyed unwillingness as his stance during the visit abroad of the delegation would be at variance with the party's strong stance against the government on aspects related to the military operation to hit target infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK. Tharoor led one of the all-party delegations. Tharoor also gave a cryptic reply when asked if he would take part in the debate. "Maunvrat, maunvrat," Tharoor told reporters. Earlier in the day, responding to a question on Tewari's tweet, fellow Congress MP Karti Chidambaram distanced himself from any internal disagreement, saying, "I don't know what he has said. The party is free to choose whoever it wants to speak in various motions." (ANI) Assam Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday launched a blistering attack against Jorhat MP Gaurav Gogoi for his speech on Operation Sindoor in Parliament, alleging that the Congress leader is "acting on behalf of Pakistan," and is a "disgrace" to the state. Sarma also reiterated the claim of Congress' Gogoi having alleged links to Pakistan, saying that the latter could leave India "any time" with his wife having foreign citizenship. Without mentioning Gogoi's name, Sarma posted on X, "speech delivered by our MP from Jorhat in Parliament yesterday proved beyond doubt that he acts on behalf of Pakistan. His secret trip and close ties with the Pakistani establishment speak volumes." https://x.com/himantabiswa/status/1950064920151642376 Calling Gogoi a "disgrace" to Assam and betraying the pride of state, Sarma added, "With his wife and both the kids holding foreign citizenship, he can leave India any time. He is a disgrace to Assam and a betrayal of our pride as proud Indian." Yestertday Lok Sabha's Deputy leader of Opposition, and Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi targeted the Centre over US President Donald Trump's repeated claims that he brokered the cessation of hostilities between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor. Participating in the debate on 'India's strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to terrorist attack in Pahalgam' in Lok Sabha, Gogoi slammed the government for stopping Operation Sindoor after Pakistan capitulated and asked why did it not go further and reclaim the territory illegally occupied by the neighbouring country. "The entire country, and the Opposition, were supporting PM Modi. Suddenly, on 10th May, we got to know that there had been a ceasefire. Why? We wanted to know from PM Modi that if Pakistan was ready to kneel down, then why did you stop, and to whom did you surrender? The US President has said this 26 times that he forced India and Pakistan to announce a ceasefire," Gogoi said. The government has stated that there was no mediation and the cessation of hostilities with Pakistan during Operation Sindoor took place after Pakistan's DGMO contacted his Indian counterpart. The Congress leader also hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating that he did not go to Pahalgam after returning from Saudi Arabia, but went to Bihar and gave an "election speech". Assam Chief Minister has previously criticised Gogoi, alleging the Jorhat MP is a "deep-rooted Pakistani agent." CM Sarma had claimed that Gogoi had only revealed 10 per cent about his visit to Pakistan and that he and his wife are deeply involved in anti-India activities. The Chief Minister added, "This man (Gaurav Gogoi) is openly a deep-rooted Pakistani agent. No Assamese will ever forget the supreme sacrifice of Jintu Gogoi (an Indian Army officer who lost his life in the line of duty during the Kargil War) or the Pahalgam incident. No Assamese will be fine with justifying the visit to Pakistan." The Rajya Sabha is set to continue the discussion on Operation Sindoor today, while Union home Minister Amit Shah will also address he Lok Sabha regarding the Operation and the Pahalgam terror attack which killed 26 tourists in Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah informed Lok Sabha on Tuesday that the Lashkar-e-Taiba top commander Suleman, involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, was among the three terrorists killed by security forces during the recent Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir. "... In the Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal..., Afghan and Jibran, these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police... Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist... All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated...," Shah said during the second debate on the Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. The top BJP leader said, " All three terrorists - Suleman, Afghan and Jibran were killed in yesterday's operation. The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier. Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by those who were kept detained by our agencies." Shah informed that those who killed our citizens in the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack have been killed. "In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," Shah said while addressing the lower house of Parliament. "Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families by asking their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones," he said. On Monday, the three terrorists were killed in Operation Mahadev in an intense firefight with security forces in the Harwan area near Dachigam National Park of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir. The anti-terror Operation Mahadev took place in the general area of Lidwas, Chinar Corps of Indian Army said. "OP MAHADEV - Contact established in General Area Lidwas. Operation in progress" the Chinar Corp said in a previous post on X. (ANI) Giving a major boost to India's defence system, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has conducted two consecutive successful flight tests of the Pralay Missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, the Office of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Tuesday. In an official statement from the Ministry of Defence (MoD), "Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted two consecutive successful flight tests of the Pralay missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on July 28 and 29, 2025." The flight tests were carried out as a part of user evaluation trials to validate the maximum and minimum range capability of the missile system. The missiles precisely followed the intended trajectory and reached the target point with pinpoint accuracy, meeting all the test objectives. All subsystems performed as per expectations, which were verified using test data captured by various tracking sensors deployed by Integrated Test Range (ITR), including instruments deployed on a ship positioned near the designated impact point, the statement said. According to MoD, Pralay is an indigenously developed solid propellant quasi-ballistic missile employing state-of-the-art guidance and navigation to ensure high precision. The missile is capable of carrying multiple types of warheads against various targets. The system has been developed by Research Centre Imarat in collaboration with other DRDO labs--Defence Research & Development Laboratory, Advanced Systems Laboratory, Armament Research & Development Establishment, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory, Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Research & Development Establishment (Engineers) and ITR etc; industry partners - Bharat Dynamics Limited & Bharat Electronics Limited and many other industries and MSMEs. The flight tests, as per MoD, were witnessed by senior scientists of DRDO, representatives of the users from the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army, as well as the industry representatives. Following the tests, Defence Minister Mantri Rajnath Singh lauded the industry, the Armed Forces, and DRDO for the successful flight tests. The missile equipped with modern technologies will give a further technological boost to the Armed Forces against threats, he said. In a X post, the RMO wrote, "The @DRDO_India has conducted two consecutive successful flight tests of Pralay Missile on 28th and 29th July 2025 from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam island off the coast of Odisha." Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, Dr Samir V Kamat also congratulated the teams, stating that the successful completion of these phase-1 flight tests paves the way for induction of the system into the Armed Forces in the near future. Earlier on July 25, DRDO successfully carried out flight trials of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) test range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The missile is an enhanced version of the ULPGM-V2 missile developed and delivered by DRDO earlier. According to the official release, the ULPGM-V3 is equipped with a high-definition, dual-channel seeker that can engage a wide variety of targets. It can be fired in plain and high-altitude areas. It has day-and-night capability and a two-way data link to support post-launch target/aim-point updates. The missile is equipped with three modular warhead options: Anti-armour to destroy modern-age armoured vehicles equipped with Rolled Homogeneous Armour (RHA) with Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA); Penetration-cum-Blast warhead with Anti-Bunker application and Pre-fragmentation warhead with a high lethality zone. (ANI) The Hives frontman Pelle Almqvist thinks the band is at the peak of its powers. The Hives frontman Pelle Almqvist thinks the band is at the peak of its powers Pelle, 46, made the comments during an interview with NME, following a livestream by the group from Mexico City where they unveiled their new record The Hives Forever Forever The Hives the follow-up to 2023s The Death Of Randy Fitzsimmons. He said: After 30 years of being a band, were at the peak of our powers. That doesnt happen a lot. His declaration comes as The Hives have announced a run of intimate UK shows to celebrate the release of their upcoming album. The new album has been described by the group as so full of energy, joy, anger and life that you will be questioning reality as you have known it. To mark the albums arrival, The Hives will perform a series of small-venue shows across the UK, beginning on 30 August at Nottinghams Rescue Rooms. The run continues with dates at Arts Club in Liverpool on 31 August and Leeds Brudenell Social Club on 1 September. A special London performance at HERE at Outernet in collaboration with Rough Trade is scheduled for 2 September, before the band closes out the dates at Brightons Concorde 2 on 3 September. The band said in a statement on Instagram: COME ONE, COME ALL! The Hives will be gracing intimate venues across the wondrous United Kingdom. Tickets for the gigs go on sale at 10am BST on Friday (30.07.25.) The announcement follows the release of new single Legalize Living, a riff-driven track taken from the forthcoming album. It comes after earlier releases Enough Is Enough which debuted in April and Paint A Picture. Discussing Enough Is Enough, Pelle said: I think Enough Is Enough got picked as a single really early when there were demos because our manager thought it would sell concert tickets. (The record company) wanted to release that first because its got a big riff and its a perfect tempo for a crowd to jump up and down. It got picked so early when the other songs werent done, but I really like how it starts: Everyones a little f****** b****. Thats as close to political commentary as youre gonna get! Basically, F*** both sides. The Hives completed by Nicholaus Arson, Vigilante Carlstroem, Chris Dangerous and The Johan and Only will also embark on a full UK and European tour later in the year. The dates include arena shows at OVO Hydro in Glasgow, Aviva Studios in Manchester, and Alexandra Palace in London. Joining them on the tour are Yard Act, who will serve as support for all UK and EU dates. Announcing the support slot, Pelle said: Thats right! Your king has spoken. Yard Act will be joining The Hives, not just at their Alexandra Palace show but on the whole UK/EU tour. A worthy contender, lets see if they can handle The Hives. Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) MP ET Mohammed Basheer on Tuesday hit out at the centre, saying that India's diplomatic relations with different countries were "diminishing". He said that the international diplomacy maintained since the time of former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi has been "hampered." "With regard to the diplomacy, cordiality with different countries, we had a very good tradition, started from the period of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi...In that case, we had a position in the world. However, it is diminishing now. That's what we have said. The international diplomacy that we had been maintaining till now has been hampered," Basheer told ANI. Speaking about the opposition's address in the Parliament yesterday regarding Operation Sindoor, the IUML MP said that the opposition highlighted all issues and asked the government about security lapses in Pahalgam. "It was a very effective and hot discussion. The opposition had requested a special session earlier, but they didn't hold it. However, during the discussion, we managed to highlight all the issues and asked about security lapses," Basheer said. "Today, on behalf of the IUML party, I will be speaking. We are also protesting against SIR. The government has not yet told whether or not they will allow a discussion on the issue," he added. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday confirmed that three terrorists who were involved in the killing of civilians were eliminated by the security forces during Operation Mahadev. Shah said this as he began his address in Lok Sabha amid the ongoing debate on Operation Sindoor and informed that those who killed our citizens in the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack have been killed. "In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J-K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," Shah said while addressing the lower house. "Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families by asking their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones," he added. On the second day of parliamentary discussion on Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other prominent leaders from the opposition are gearing up to address the lower house. Union Home Minister Amit Shah initiated the discussion in the Lok Sabha today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the debate in the evening. According to sources, prominent leaders listed to speak on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha today are Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav, Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MPs Kannimozhi and A Raja, and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MP Ganti Harish Madhur Balayogi. Leader of Opposition (LoP) Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi is likely to speak before Prime Minister Modi's address in the lower house. Congress' KC Venugopal has also been listed to speak today along with Priyanka Gandhi. The sources said that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sanjay Jaiswal along with Voice of the People Party (VPP) MP Ricky Andrew J. Syngkon, United People's Party Liberal (UPPL) Joyanta Basumatary, Communist Party of India (CPI) MP K Subbarayan, Trinamool Congress' Saayoni Ghosh, IUML MP Basheer, Janata Dal (United) MP Kaushalendra Kumar, Abdul Rashid Sheikh (Independent), and SAD MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal will be participating in the debate. This is the seventh day of the ongoing monsoon session. Minutes after it was convened at 11 am, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned until 2 pm. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to deliver his speech in the evening, according to a government source. Meanwhile, the upper house is holding a 16-hour-long discussion on Op Sindoor today. (ANI) Amid Assam's ongoing eviction drive against illegal settlers in its reserve forests, Nagaland has been placed on high alert due to fears of a possible influx across the state's borders. Director General of Police (DGP) Nagaland, Rupin Sharma, IPS, addressed the situation on Tuesday, detailing the state's approach and urging public cooperation with law enforcement. Speaking to ANI, Sharma said, "The current issue, which has been flagged by various people and is also known to the state government, is primarily due to the eviction drives carried out by the Assam government and various reserve forests in Assam. He clarified that those being referred to as "illegal immigrants" are, in fact, illegal settlers who had encroached upon reserve forest areas in Assam." He added, "Their eviction is part of a drive undertaken by the Assam Forest Department and other state agencies, as permanent settlement is not allowed in forest land. The DGP expressed concern that many of these evicted individuals may attempt to enter Nagaland with their belongings, prompting heightened vigilance in the state." In response to concerns over illegal influx, Sharma said the Nagaland Police have intensified security along the state's border with Assam, where checkpoints have been heightened and patrolling has been established to prevent unauthorised entry. Maintaining that many individuals attempting to enter Nagaland lack the mandatory Inner Line Permit (ILP), making their entry illegal under state regulations, he emphasised that without verifying nationality, these individuals cannot be labelled as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. He said that the Nagaland government has issued instructions to the Deputy Commissioners, SPs, and OCs to maintain a heightened vigil, not to allow these people to enter Nagaland. "On our side, we have increased the presence of the police force and the Indian Reserve Battalion in the bordering areas with Assam to prevent these entries. Besides this, we have directed all the SPs, the SDPOs, OCs, and all the NGOs, non-registered officers, and the Thana staff, even the IRB people and NAP people in the bordering areas with Assam, that they will go to each and every village along the border, meet the village councils, meet the village representatives, and inform the village representatives that undocumented people should not allow to come into Nagaland. People without ILPs should not be allowed to come to Nagaland." Adding that if anyone tries to come, it should be reported to the district administration as well as the police," Sharma told ANI. "So, with this heightened vigil, we are very hopeful that not too many people will be able to enter Nagaland without proper documentation or without records." Also clarifying that illegal immigrants include undocumented foreigners without valid visas, who can be deported. In Nagaland, he said, many suspected immigrants come from Assam or Bengal, but verifying their nationality is difficult. Indian citizens without an Inner Line Permit (ILP) are also considered illegal under local laws. Police have been regularly checking ILPs, and over 2,000 people were asked to obtain them. "If people are not having proper ILPs, it could be because of a variety of reasons. People are not aware of the ILP regime, especially in the Dimapur area, because it's recently been introduced, so we are taking actions on that count also," he added. He also suggested introducing tenant registration to track the floating population in Nagaland due to various reasons, such as job opportunities or transit, as many people come for short durations but often overstay. "I think there is a requirement for knowing where people are staying in Nagaland. So, besides the ILP, both the hotels and the landlords need to be a bit careful. I think we should have a system where the landlords in Nagaland need to be much more aware of who is staying in their houses" , and made a request to consider it, as it is not to harm anyone but to have more security for everybody in the society. "If we have a system of registration, I think it is a good point of beginning for the police and the law enforcement agencies and administration in case a crime is committed by a suspicious immigrant or a person who has come from outside. So, besides the ILP, I think this is something that we may consider introducing in our end over a period of time," he added. Furthermore, the DGP urged the public not to take the law into their own hands when dealing with illegal immigration cases. He emphasised that any suspicions should be reported to the police or district administration to avoid misunderstandings that could escalate into larger issues. Citizens are encouraged to share information with any level of police personnel, from constables to senior officers, and assured that appropriate action will be taken. (ANI) Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi on Tuesday expressed hope that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would join both houses of the Parliament amid the ongoing debate on Operation Sindoor. She stated that not every question had to come from the opposition, as it was also the responsibility of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to answer. "Operation Sindoor was a successful mission. Terrorist hideouts were destroyed. Our armed forces gave a blunt answer to Pakistan. Rajnath Singh is a respected Defence Minister. He could also have informed the country about what happened. Not every question must come from the opposition. It is his responsibility to give some answers," Chaturvedi told ANI. "I welcome that the questions among the people of the country have been raised by the opposition. The ruling party will give its answer. The shortcomings in our democracy and security will be discussed. I hope the Prime Minister will attend both houses," she added. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday confirmed that three terrorists who were involved in the killing of civilians were eliminated by the security forces during Operation Mahadev. Shah said this as he began his address in Lok Sabha amid the ongoing debate on Operation Sindoor and informed that those who killed our citizens in the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack have been killed. "In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J-K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," Shah said while addressing the lower house. "Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families by asking their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones," he added. On the second day of parliamentary discussion on Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other prominent leaders from the opposition are gearing up to address the lower house. Union Home Minister Amit Shah initiated the discussion in the Lok Sabha today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the debate in the evening. According to sources, prominent leaders listed to speak on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha today are Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav, Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MPs Kannimozhi and A Raja, and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MP Ganti Harish Madhur Balayogi. Leader of Opposition (LoP) Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi is likely to speak before Prime Minister Modi's address in the lower house. Congress' KC Venugopal has also been listed to speak today along with Priyanka Gandhi. The sources said that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sanjay Jaiswal along with Voice of the People Party (VPP) MP Ricky Andrew J. Syngkon, United People's Party Liberal (UPPL) Joyanta Basumatary, Communist Party of India (CPI) MP K Subbarayan, Trinamool Congress' Saayoni Ghosh, IUML MP Basheer, Janata Dal (United) MP Kaushalendra Kumar, Abdul Rashid Sheikh (Independent), and SAD MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal will be participating in the debate. This is the seventh day of the ongoing monsoon session. Minutes after it was convened at 11 am, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned until 2 pm. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to deliver his speech in the evening, according to a government source. Meanwhile, the upper house is holding a 16-hour-long discussion on Op Sindoor today. (ANI) The Delhi High Court on Tuesday adjourned the plea of Baramulla MP Abdul Rashid Sheikh alias Engineer Rashid and listed it for hearing on July 31. Senior Counsel appearing for Engineer Rashid could not reach court due to traffic jam owing to rain. Engineer Rashid has sought an interim bail to attend the parliament session. Division bench of Justice Vivek Chaudhary and Shalinder Kaur was to hear the matter. Advocate Vikhyat Oberoi appeared for Rashid and sought a pass over as senior advocate N Hariharan was stuck in traffic jam due to rain. The court allowed the pass over. On second call also senior counsel could not appear. The court asked the counsel that the application for modification of earlier order is still pending. In the fresh application issue raised is the same. We cannot hear the same issue and again. Counsel for petitioner submitted that in alternate interim bail has been sought. The court said that it was considered by the earlier by the predecessor division bench. You should press the modification plea. The counsel for accused Submitted that earlier the interim bail plea. Senior Advocate Sidharth Luthra and Special Public Prosecutor Akshai Malik appeared virtually for NIA. The Delhi High court on July 25 issued notice to NIA on the interim bail plea. He has sought interim bail to attend the parliament session. On July 22, Special NIA court had rejected his plea for interim bail. However he was granted custody parole. The Special NIA judge at Patiala house court granted custody parole to Engineer Rashid from 24 July to 4 august. This custody parole was granted for the period whenever there is a parliament session. Rashid has to bear the cost and comply with other conditions. Now, he has said that the custody parole was granted for a limited period. It is submitted that if he is not granted interim bail then he may be granted custody parole from July 23 to August 21 to attend Parliament's Monsoon session. He has also sought a direction to set aside the order to bear expenses for travel and other arrangements. Rashid is in judicial custody in a terror funding case linked with Hafiz Saeed. Engineer Rashid was represented by senior Advocate N Hariharan alongwith Advocates Aditya Wadhwa, Vikhyat Oberoi and Nishita Gupta. It was before the special court it was argued that the trial court has granted interim bail to him on 10.09.2024 for state elections campaigning, which was extended thrice. Hence he cannot be considered a security threat. Moreover, Delhi High court had allowed him to attend parliament in custody twice on 10.02.2025 and 25.03.2025, during which he duly participated, the cousnsel submitted. NIA had opposed the plea and submitted that interim should not be granted and if he is being allowed to attend in custody, then he should pay travel expenses. Counsels for Rashid opposed to pay any travel expenses, as he is seeking to attend Parliament as his public duty and not for his personal work. On earlier occasions also Engineer Rashid was granted permission to attend parliament sessions and to take oath. (ANI) Sanjay Dwivedi, father of Shubham Dwivedi, who lost his life in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack on Tuesday, congratulated the army for demonstrating valour and bravery in eliminating the terrorists after all three terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack were killed in Operation Mahadev. He urged the government to continue Operation Sindoor until terrorism is completely wiped out. "The attack on April 22 was an attack on our country, the enemy nation sent terrorists and killed our innocent citizens... The way our army eliminated those terrorists, demonstrating valour and bravery, we definitely congratulate them. We express our gratitude to them. We urge the army and the government to continue Operation Sindoor until the terrorists are completely wiped out...," told Shubham Dwivedi's father to ANI. Similar sentiments were echoed in Odisha's Balasore by Priyadarshani Achariya, wife of Prashant Kumar Satpathy, who also lost his life in the Pahalgam attack. "I got the news that all three terrorists have been killed in Operation Mahadev. I am very happy. Whatever step the Indian Army has taken is right. I also thank our Prime Minister," She told ANI. In Pune, family members of another victim, Santosh Jagdale, also expressed a sense of closure and relief. His wife, Pragati Jagdale, said the news brought some justice after months of suffering. "Today we have got some justice that they were killed. I thank our Indian Army. I cannot tell you what I suffered in these three months. I speak with my husband's picture Why did you go there (Pahalgam), and you should come home... We were waiting for this news. Sometimes I also used to think why I don't have a rifle, I will kill them myself," She said. Santosh Jagdale's daughter, Asavari Jagdale, also spoke to ANI,"I thank the Indian Army and the Indian government. Today, those 26 people will get peace. Today, we will also be able to sleep peacefully, and we hope that such an incident does not happen again, and peace prevails in the country. The government should continue operations like Mahadev so that such incidents do not happen again." Sangita Ganbote, the wife of Kaustubh Ganbote, who was killed in the Pahalgam Terror attack, told ANI, "We had faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi that those who did this would be caught and killed. They were killed; it is a good thing. I thank the army..." This comes after Union Home Minister Amit Shah informed Lok Sabha on Tuesday that the Lashkar-e-Taiba top commander Suleman, involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, was among the three terrorists killed by security forces during the recent Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir. "... In the Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal..., Afghan and Jibran, these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police... Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist... All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated...," Shah said during the second debate on the Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. The top BJP leader said, " All three terrorists - Suleman, Afghan and Jibran were killed in yesterday's operation. The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier. Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by those who were kept detained by our agencies."Shah informed that those who killed our citizens in the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack have been killed." In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," Shah said while addressing the lower house of Parliament. "Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families by asking their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones," he said. On Monday, the three terrorists were killed in Operation Mahadev in an intense firefight with security forces in the Harwan area near Dachigam National Park of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday praised the Indian Army and security forces for the success of Operation Sindoor, saying the operation was carefully planned to target terrorists while ensuring no harm to ordinary citizens in Pakistan. He also congratulated the forces for killing three terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, adding that they were from the same group that had "brutally killed 26 innocent and blameless people" in Pahalgam on April 22. Speaking during a special discussion on the operation in the Rajya Sabha, Singh said, "I congratulate the Indian Army and other security forces through this House for their success in eliminating three TRF terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir yesterday. This is the same TRF whose terrorists brutally killed 26 innocent and blameless people in the Poonch area on April 22." He said the operation aimed to eliminate terrorist hideouts and reinforce India's zero-tolerance stance on terrorism. "The purpose of this operation was to destroy terrorist hideouts and to send a clear message that India maintains zero tolerance against terrorism," Singh said. The Defence Minister noted that the operation was based on detailed planning. "Before executing Operation Sindoor, our forces thoroughly studied every aspect. We had several options. But we chose the option that would cause maximum damage to terrorists and their bases while ensuring no harm to Pakistan's ordinary citizens," he said. Singh also praised the armed forces for their overall contribution to national security. "The role of our armies and other security forces in ensuring India's internal and external security cannot be praised enough," he added. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah informed the Lok Sabha that Lashkar-e-Taiba's top commander Suleman, involved in the recent Pahalgam terror attack, was among three terrorists killed in Operation Mahadev, also conducted in Jammu and Kashmir. "In the Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal..., Afghan and Jibran, these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police... Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist... All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated...," Shah said during the second debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. He added, "All three terrorists - Suleman, Afghan and Jibran - were killed in yesterday's operation. The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier. Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by those who were detained by our agencies." Shah said that those responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack had been neutralised. "In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," he told the House. "Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families by asking their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones," Shah added. (ANI) DMK MP Kanimozhi on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on Centre during the Lok Sabha debate on Operation Sindoor, questioning its handling of recent terror incidents and accusing it of deflecting accountability. She emphasised that the government's failure to learn from past mistakes has led to a lack of trust among the people. "What has the Vishwaguru learnt from these terror attacks? You can't keep talking about Operation Sindoor and expect us not to ask questions. This is a failure of a government that has failed the people of this country. You can't keep talking about the past and expect us to forget today's issues. Vishwaguru has not learnt any lessons. He has not taught anything," Kanimozhi said. Kanimozhi took on the Modi government in the Lok Sabha during the ongoing debate on Operation Sindoor, accusing it of indulging in divisive politics and excluding the Opposition from key briefings on national security. "Dividing the country, not standing when they need you -- is not something we expect. We don't stand by you for your divisive politics. Have you ever invited us after the foreign delegation to update us on developments," she said. Kanimozhi expressed mixed feelings about the Opposition's involvement in the Operation Sindoor global outreach, appreciating the BJP's gesture of sending Opposition leaders as part of the delegation but emphasising that the circumstances leading to the delegation's formation were unfortunate. "For the first time, the BJP has shown some confidence in the Opposition, and they sent us out as leaders of (MPs) delegations to represent this country. I thank them. But also, I would like to say, if the opportunity to lead these delegations had not arisen, then we would have been happier and more grateful...We had to go on these delegations (MPs delegation on Operation Sindoor global outreach) because peace had failed us, and you (central govt) had failed the people of India...," said the DMK MP. Kanimozhi countered Home Minister Amit Shah's speech, which she said implied that opposition parties were "less patriotic," reminding him that the DMK was the first party to take out a rally in support of the Defence forces and stood with the government during the all-party meeting. "The Home Minister, in his speech, made us sound less patriotic. We have never failed this nation. The DMK was the first party which took out a rally in support of our Defence forces. When you called for an all-party meeting, we came and said that we stand with you." Referring to the Home Minister's remark that the BJP would remain in power for the next 20 years, she responded, "We don't mind sitting in the Opposition for 20 years, because the will of the people is supreme and we will bow to it. But it should be the people who make us sit in the Opposition--not the Election Commission or the SIR (Special Intensive Revision)." "We need to protect democracy. I hope the next discussion will be about protecting democracy and the election system in this country," said DMK MP Kanimozhi in the Parliament. Kanimozhi questioned India's foreign policy during Operation Sindoor debate in Lok Sabha, asking the Centre to list the countries which openly came to support of India in the aftermath of Pahalgam terror attack. "When you called for an all-party leaders' meeting, the leaders from the opposition party came and said that we stand with you. We stood with this country. You are against us. You rewrite, reinvent history in all your speeches," said DMK MP Kanimozhi. She also criticised BJP for its frequent criticism of Jawaharlal Nehru, saying even the Congress does not remember the former Prime Minister as much as the BJP does. "Even the Congress doesn't remember the Congress as much as you do. But I want to thank you for that -- because of you, people in Tamil Nadu have gone back to reading about Periyar and Ambedkar, and people everywhere have returned to reading Nehru," added Kanimozhi. Earlier in his address inside the Parliament, Home Minister Amit Shah said, "Yesterday, they (Congress) were raising questions about why there was no war....Today, PoK exists only because of Jawaharlal Nehru...In 1960, they gave 80% of the Indus waters to Pakistan....In 1971, during the Simla Agreement, they (Congress) forgot about PoK. If they had taken PoK then, we would not have to carry out attacks on camps there now." She took a dig at the Central government, suggesting that their mistakes, which they blame on Nehru, are a testament to Nehru's enduring influence. She said, "I don't think that the Congress party remembers Jawaharlal Nehru ji as much as you do. But I should thank you for that, because so many young people in TN have gone back to read Periyar and Ambedkar. And today all over the world young people are finding out and want to know about Jawaharlal Nehruji because a person who had such power to change history and imagine having such kind of power, that even you, whatever mistake you commit, is because of him." (ANI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday trained guns on Congress amid the ongoing debate in Parliament on Operation Sindoor, and said that there would be no Pakistan if they didn't accept partition. "Pakistan is Congress' mistake. If they had not accepted partition, there would have been no Pakistan today," Shah said while addressing the Lok Sabha. The Union Home Minister held former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru responsible for India's not being a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He further alleged that the Gandhi family's "love for China" has been passed down from three generations. "Today, China is in the UN Security Council, and India is not. Modi is trying his best to get India to become a part of the UN Security Council. Jawaharlal Nehru's stand is responsible for this. When our jawans were facing Chinese soldiers in Doklam, Rahul Gandhi was holding a meeting with the Chinese ambassador. This love for China has passed down three generations from Jawaharlal Nehru, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi," Shah said. He further attacked the opposition, which had questioned the whereabouts of the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, saying that the "security forces have killed at least 100 people". "Those who were hiding during your tenure are being searched and killed today," Shah said, adding, "They (oppn) were asking yesterday where the perpetrators of Pahalgam went... At least 100 people have been killed by our forces... On May 7, our job was completed at 1:26 AM. This is not Manmohan Singh's government; we will not sit quietly and send dossiers... On May 9, 11 of Pakistan's air bases were destroyed... Attack on eight of the air bases was so precise that it shook Pakistan's air defence system," Responding to the opposition's "why there was no war" charge, the Union Home Minister said that Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) exists only because of Jawaharlal Nehru. He claimed that the Nehru government gave 80 per cent of Indus waters to Pakistan and forgot about PoK in 1971 during Indira Gandhi's tenure as PM. "Yesterday, they (Congress) were raising questions about why there was no war....Today, PoK exists only because of Jawaharlal Nehru...In 1960, they gave 80 per cent of the Indus waters to Pakistan....In 1971, during the Simla Agreement, they (Congress) forgot about PoK. If they had taken PoK then, we would not have to carry out attacks on camps there now," Shah said. Shah went on to take a jibe at the opposition after informing the Lok Sabha that three terrorists who were involved in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack have been killed. He said, "Magar Syaahi padd gayi inke chehre pe' (Their faces have been smeared with ink)". "...Operation Sindoor killed those who sent the terrorists, and Operation Mahadev killed those who carried out the attack... I thought that after hearing this news, there would be a wave of happiness in the ruling and the Opposition parties, 'Magar Syaahi padd gayi inke chehre pe' (Their faces are smeared with ink)... What kind of politics is this?" Shah said during the debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. (ANI) Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had a heated exchange during the second day of discussion in Lok Sabha on Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam terror attack on Tuesday. Shah informed the House that three terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam attack were killed in the recent Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir. He claimed the Army and CRPF had neutralised the "Aaka" (Master) of terrorists. After this the Samajwadi Party leader interjected to say "Un ke aaqa Pakistan mein hain (Their masters are in Pakistan). To this the Home Minister retorted "Kaun... aapki Pakistan se baat hoti hai kya (Who is that; do you speak with Pakistan)?" There was a brief uproar by Opposition MPs who rose from their seats and objected to Shah's remarks. The Lok Sabha MP from Kannauj Yadav spoke after DMK MP Kanimozhi to launch a blistering attack on the Centre stating that instead of the Government announcing the cessation of hostilities with Pakistan, their "great friend" US President Donald Trump ended up announcing the ceasfire between the two countries after 'Operation Sindoor'. "How did the government back down? What was the reason for which the government had to announce a ceasefire? I had a hope that the government will announce the ceasefire. But their friendship is very deep, so they told their friend (US) that you should only announce the ceasefire, we don't need it, we will accept it from you only," the Lok Sabha MP said during his address as the Parliament discussed India's strong, successful and decisive 'Operation Sindoor.' "What answer is the government accepting this? Actually, the topic I have come here to talk about, this should not have been an issue in the first place. There are many issues being made, but this issue is not ruling or Opposition, this is about nation's security," Yadav saidUnited States President Trump has repeatedly claimed that he had a hand in enabling a "ceasefire" deal with India and Pakistan, claiming to have used trade and tariffs to let the two nations stop hostilities. The Indian government however, has repeatedly denied the claims by President Trump, saying that the cessation of hostilities happened only after the two sides agreed between themselves rather than through a third party. The Samajwadi Party MP also praised the Indian armed forces, saying "if we count the daring armed forces of the world, Indian forces will be at the front of that list. Everyone lauds their courage." However, the Kannauj MP also took a jibe at misinformation being spread by certain news channels over the alleged capture of Karachi and Lahore, or Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). He said that anyone watching the news channels would be confident of India's victory, but rather saw the news of cessation of hostilities. "I am happy to know that not only were Pakistani terror bases destroyed, but also India reached Pakistani airbases. We felt before that India could teach a lesson to Pakistan, give a proper reply. But when we were watching the various channels, then it felt like Karachi, Lahore is ours, some even said we captured some (Pakistanis). With the visuals of the channels it felt like PoK was ours only," he said. Criticising the government further, that while he sees "different engines of government" clashing together, they have been united regarding PoK. "But, I see different engines of government clashing together, it is possible that it is my false belief, but regarding PoK we see all the engines together. When it comes to reaching PoK some even said that within 6 months we will get a chance to get back PoK." he said. Taking a jibe at the NDA MPs during his address, he said, "I am happy to see that whenever the Opposition MPs are speaking, they are getting praises for their words, but when the ruling alliance speaks then their own people are not praising them." Earlier today, Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi, who is also the Deputy Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, targeted the Central government over the US president's remarks, as he asked "if Islamabad was ready to kneel down, "why did you stop, and to whom did you surrender?" "The entire country, and the Opposition, were supporting PM Modi. Suddenly, on 10th May, we got to know that there had been a ceasefire. Why? We wanted to know from PM Modi that if Pakistan was ready to kneel down, then why did you stop, and to whom did you surrender? The US President has said this 26 times that he forced India and Pakistan to announce a ceasefire," Gogoi said. India carried out Operation Sindoor in response to Pahalgam terror attack and carried out precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK. India repelled subsequent Pakstani aggression and pounded its airbases. (ANI) A total of 6 people have died after a truck crashed into a bus in Jharkhand's Deoghar, an official said, adding that three people are said to be critical. District Commissioner Naman Priyesh Lakra said a preliminary investigation revealed that the bus, carrying devotees from Bihar and other states, collided with a truck loaded with gas cylinders before careening out of control. Lakra said, "Preliminary investigation suggests that the driver was local, and all the devotees were from Bihar and other states. It appears that the bus initially collided with a truck loaded with cylinders because the driver dozed off and fell out. The bus continued moving without a driver for 200 feet and then crashed further ahead. A total of 6 people have died and 24 others are injured, of whom 8 are being treated at AIIMS, with 3 in critical condition." Earlier, Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Sadar Ravi Kumar told ANI, "The information about the accident was received at 4-5 am... A private bus, carrying pilgrims from Deoghar to visit Basukinath, lost control and collided with a truck. Furthermore, the bus lost its balance and collided with a brick stack... The driver died on the spot, and the deaths of four more people have been confirmed... The bodies were brought to Sadar Hospital. Five deaths have been confirmed, and 23 injured are under treatment..." Inspector General (IG) of Dumka Zone, Shailendra Kumar Sinha, said, "A bus coming from Mohanpur carried Kanwariyas. It collided with a truck transporting gas cylinders. 5 Kanwariyas have died in the incident. All the injured people have been taken to the District Hospital Deoghar for better treatment..." Meanwhile, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) expressed grief over the tragedy. In a post on X, the PMO stated, "The road accident that occurred in Deoghar, Jharkhand, is extremely tragic. I express my deepest condolences to the families of the devotees who lost their lives in this incident. May God grant them the strength to bear this pain. Along with this, I pray for the speedy recovery of all the injured." The incident occurred during the ongoing Kanwar Yatra, which began on July 10. As part of this annual pilgrimage, devotees of Lord Shiva, known as Kanwariyas, carry holy water from rivers over long distances to offer it at Shiva temples. The month of 'Sawan' is considered highly sacred in Hindu tradition. Devotees observe fasts and offer prayers to seek Lord Shiva's blessings. Rituals such as chanting mantras, singing devotional songs, and performing Rudrabhishek are commonly observed during this period. This year, the Sawan month started on July 11 and will end on August 9. (ANI) Gregg Wallace thinks he would have "possibly hit the bottle" if he had not looked after himself amid his MasterChef scandal. Former MasterChef host Gregg Wallace / Credit: Instagram The former host of the BBC One cookery show was sacked by the BBC on July 14 - the day a report by the independent law firm Lewis Silkin, on behalf of MasterChef's production company Banijay UK, into Gregg's alleged inappropriate behaviour, substantiated 45 out of 83 allegations, including claims of inappropriate sexual language, humour, and one alleged incident of "unwelcome physical contact" by Gregg, 60. After the corporation said it had "no plans to work" with the star again, Gregg insisted to The Sun newspaper on July 25 that he is not a groper, a sex pest or a flasher. During the scandal, Gregg decided to "exercise better" and get "better nutrition", and he thinks this has helped him survive the ordeal. Speaking in a video of him in Canary Wharf, London, which he posted to his Instagram account on Tuesday (29.07.25), Gregg admitted: "Good morning. It's almost 6am. Sun's coming up over Canary Wharf. My mate Danny, he's got fitness studios down here, so I've come down here to train with him. "Look, it's been a difficult few months, and I made a decision when all this started to really try and look after myself physically. "So, I exercise better than I ever did before. I got better nutrition than I ever did before, and I don't know what I would have done without that. Possibly hit the bottle. I don't know. But here I am in probably the best physical condition I've ever been." In his first interview since the release of the Lewis Silkin report into his alleged inappropriate behaviour, Gregg told The Sun newspaper that his actions had been "perceived incorrectly". He said: "Im not saying Im not guilty of stuff, but so much has been perceived incorrectly. Things that really hurt me and hurt my family. "People think Ive been taking my trousers down and exposing myself Im not a flasher. "People think Im a sex pest. I am not. I am not sexist or a misogynist or any of it. There never were any allegations of sexual harassment. The Lewis Silkin report also upheld an allegation of an "extremely offensive racist term being used in the workplace", with Gregg's former MasterChef co-star John Torode, 60, later identifying himself as the individual alleged to have used racist language in 2018 or 2019, "for the sake of transparency" in an Instagram post. On July 15, the corporation announced that John's contract would not be renewed. John denied using a racist word and said he has "no recollection" of using racist language. Gregg told The Sun: "Hes not a racist." The BBC recently confirmed it will be airing the last series of the crisis-hit MasterChef that was presented by Gregg and John - and was filmed in 2024 - following "careful consideration and consultation with the contestants". To respect the cooks who gave "so much to the process", it will broadcast from August 6 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The Karnataka Lokayukta raided the residence of Jayanna, the Executive Engineer of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in the Hassan division. The residence of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Pallike Revenue Officer N Venkatesh in Bengaluru was also raided. The series of raids followed similar statewide raids last week. On July 23, the Karnataka Lokayukta conducted a raid on the residence and office of Sunil Kumar, an Executive Engineer in the Health and Family Welfare Department. According to Lokayukta officials, raids were conducted at Sunil Kumar's residence and office in Kalaburagi. Lokayukta officials are examining documents found during the searches. Sunil Kumar is serving in the Engineer Department of Kalaburagi district. He is a resident of Hallikheda B village in Humnabad taluk of Bidar district. As per the Lokayukta, gold ornaments, cash, watches and other articles were found in the residence of Maruthi Bagli, Assistant Director of Town and Country Planning, in Bidar. The raid was led by Lokayukta Deputy SP Hanumantharai. Last month, Lokayukta officials conducted extensive raids on seven properties linked to a DB Patil Circle Police Inspector (CPI) of Gadag Town Police Station, following allegations of acquiring assets disproportionate to his known income. The operation, led by Lokayukta CPI Parashuram Kavatagi, targeted locations in Gadag, Bagalkot, Jamkhandi, and Kerur. According to Lokayukta officials, the operation was part of an investigation into complaints of disproportionate assets and potential misuse of official positions. A team of Lokayukta officials, led by CPI Parashuram Kavatagi and supervised by DySP Pushpalatha and Officer P.S. Patil, meticulously examined documents, cash holdings, and property records during the raid. In a related action, Lokayukta officials also raided the residence of an Assistant Government Officer (AGO) in Shivamogga. The officer was booked under Shivamogga Crime No. 9/25. His premises were similarly searched for evidence of disproportionate assets. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders held a protest over the shortage of fertilisers in the Tumakuru district of Karnataka. Speaking on the protest, Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra said that due to the inefficiency of the state government, farmers across Karnataka have hit the streets due to a shortage of urea. "This urea crisis has been created due to the non-involvement of the concerned minister. When the government was aware of the fact that there would be sufficient rainfall, there should have been proper preparedness on the part of the government. The Agriculture Minister never bothered to convene a meeting of the senior officials. He never toured Karnataka," Vijayendra said. "Since the entire government was in Delhi, busy in changing Siddaramaiah, replaced by DK Shivakumar, the entire administration has collapsed here in Karnataka, so because of this inefficiency, the artificial urea crisis has been created in Karnataka. Farmers are in distress. It is the responsibility of the BJP to stand by farmers. Hence, we have been protesting across the state," he added. Earlier on Monday, Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilisers JP Nadda promised that 1.35 lakh metric tonnes of urea required for Karnataka will be supplied within the next 10 to 15 days, said former Chief Minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai. Speaking at a joint press conference held on Monday in New Delhi, along with BJP MPs from Karnataka, he said that farmers in Karnataka are not receiving urea on time. "This is not a sudden problem. Due to good monsoon and pre-monsoon rains this year, a large number of farmers are cultivating maize. The area under maize cultivation has increased by 1.5 per cent. The agriculture department is aware of this and has acknowledged it. Normally, the demand for urea starts from July and continues till August. But since the rains began in the third week of June itself, the demand for fertilisers also started early," Bommai said. He said usually, farmers apply urea once, adding, "But this time, after the first application, it rained again, prompting a second and even third round of applications. Repeated application of urea has placed a financial burden on farmers. In addition, due to weeds growing in maize crops, and a shortage of labourers, they are also having to spend on herbicides. This has further increased the financial burden on farmers. Moreover, long queues in front of fertiliser dealer shops during the day and night have caused frustration, prompting intense protests from farmers. This issue is acute in around eight districts and moderate in three or four others," he said. The former CM said the Agriculture Department should have anticipated the climatic changes and maintained a buffer stock. Bommai further said, "Based on the fertiliser usage of the previous year, the department should have calculated this year's requirement and stockpiled accordingly. While the Centre ensures the supply of fertiliser up to the nearest yard via railway wagons, it is the responsibility of the state government to handle distribution. Mismanagement has occurred in this distribution process. The Agriculture Department has failed to understand and assess the anticipated demand of farmers." The MP stated that there is rampant corruption in the distribution of fertiliser in the state. "Urea is available in Karnataka, but farmers are unable to access it. Wealthier farmers are purchasing urea at higher prices, while small and marginal farmers are forced to stand in queues in front of shops. Unauthorised hoarding and black-market sales of urea at inflated prices are taking place. There is significant corruption. Officials lack information on district-wise demand. Due to administrative lapses, farmers are facing severe distress," he said. Bommai said there are 1.35 lakh metric tonnes of urea stock in Karnataka. "If managed properly, this can solve the urgent fertiliser crisis for farmers. The state government should distribute this through cooperative societies. The Centre has issued clear orders that no farmer should be compelled to buy other fertilisers in order to receive urea. Licenses of dealers who indulge in such link sales should be cancelled. However, the state government has not taken any action. Farmers are already in distress. The state government is imposing an additional burden on them. The state must supply urea without linking it to the purchase of other fertilisers," Bommai further said. (ANI) Congress leader and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Tuesday tore into the Centre over the Pahalgam attack, alleging that the government did not provide proper security to the tourists visiting Baisaran meadow in Jammu and Kashmir, which ultimately led to the killing of 26 tourists on April 22 this year. Speaking during the ongoing debate on Operation Sindoor in Lok Sabha, the Congress leader quoted the widow of Shubham Dwivedi who witnessed her husband being shot dead by terrorists in Pahalagam. "The whole time when the people were being killed mercilessly, she did not see one security personnel" Priyanka Gandhi said. "When citizens were being killed one by one for an hour, there wasn't single security personnel. I saw my world ending in front of my eyes, there was not a single security guard. Why was there no security there?" Shubham's widow, Ashanya said as quoted by Priyanka Gandhi. "I saw my world finishing before my eyes, not one security guard was there. I can see that the government left us like orphans there," the Congress leader said. "Why was security not there? Why was there not a soldier? Did the government not know that there is daily footfall here? They know that the way to the place is through the forest, what if something else happened then people could not get out. There was not even one facility for treatment, first aid or even security. The people were left alone. They went on the trust of the government, and the government left them on god's will." Amid brief slogans raised by Opposition MPs shouting "shame shame," the Wayanad MP asked "who is responsible for the (Pahalgam) attack?" "I want to ask who is responsible for this? Who is responsible for the security of the people? Is the Prime Minister not responsible? Is the Home minister or Defence Minister not responsible? Is NIA not responsible?" Continuing her attack, she said that just two weeks before Union Home Minister visited Jammu and Kashmir to review its security, and said that "victory has been achieved" against terrorism. "Just two weeks before the attack, our Home Minister went to Kashmir, to see and the security arrangements in the region and he said that victory has been achieved over terrorism," the Congress leader said. Similarly, she highlighted how Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha accepted responsibility for the attack, but was not questioned further by anyone. "Three months later, the Jammu and Kashmir Governor said in an interview while walking, yes, there was irresponsibility in Baisaran valley, I take responsibility for that. The topic starts and finishes there, no one questions him," she said. She also pointed out that while Union Home Minister Amit Shah had criticised the previous UPA-led government for over 25 terror attacks in the countries during their tenure; similarly 'The Resistance Front' (TRF), who initially claimed responsibility for the attack, carried out 25 attacks within 2020-2025. "Few days after (Pahalgam attack), a terrorist organisation, TRF, claims responsibility for the attack. Who are they? They started in 2017 and started their terrorism work in Kashmir in 2020. Between 2020, to April 22, 2025, they did 25 terror attacks. When the Home minister counted the terror attacks during UPA's tenure, he counted around 25 too, in his speech. This organisation itself has done 25 attacks between 2020 to 2025," she said. Earlier, speaking in the Lower House DMK MP Kanimozhi also questioned the centre for its handling of recent terror incidents and accusing it of deflecting accountability. "What has the Vishwaguru learnt from these terror attacks? You can't keep talking about Operation Sindoor and expect us not to ask questions. This is a failure of a government that has failed the people of this country. You can't keep talking about the past and expect us to forget today's issues. Vishwaguru has not learnt any lessons. He has not taught anything," Kanimozhi said. Kanimozhi took on the Modi government in the Lok Sabha during the ongoing debate on Operation Sindoor, accusing it of indulging in divisive politics and excluding the Opposition from key briefings on national security. (ANI) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday dismissed speculation of a rift within the state Congress, asserting that there was nothing wrong with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's meeting with party legislators. Speaking to mediapersons at his Sadashivanagar residence, he said, "Calling a legislators' meeting is well within the power of the CM. What is wrong with it? AICC General Secretary Surjewala, who had held meetings with MLAs, has given his feedback to the CM. The legislators' meeting is regarding that. I have no problem with the meeting; I'm not sure why it is troubling the media." The remark came against the backdrop of CM Siddaramaiah holding a meeting with Congress MLAs, excluding Shivakumar. "I have no issues with the meeting. I will hold a separate meeting with legislators concerned, as we have a different agenda for Bengaluru city. I have also held discussions with many MLAs already," DK Shivakumar said. Hitting out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over their criticism that the CM has ignored the Deputy CM, he said, "Let them set their house in order before commenting on other parties. There is factionalism in the BJP, and their leaders are up against each other publicly." "The formation of the Greater Bengaluru Authority is for the greater good of Bengaluru city. This decision has been taken keeping in mind the geographical, administrative, and economic aspects. We have to submit an affidavit to the Supreme Court regarding the elections," he added. Further reacting to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge expressing disappointment over missing out on becoming the CM of Karnataka, Shivakumar said, "There is nothing wrong in it. He is a senior leader of the party and has worked hard for it. He has just expressed his feelings. There is nothing wrong with a debate like that. Everyone is entitled to their opinion." (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his speech in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, which detailed Operations Mahadev and Sindoor. In a post on X, PM Modi said that security operations played a vital role in eliminating "cowardly terrorists" in India. https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1950118130031731151?s=46 "In this remarkable speech in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah Ji gives important details about Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which have played a vital role in eliminating cowardly terrorists. His address also focuses on our Government's efforts towards keeping our nation secure," said PM Modi. In his hour-long speech, Shah informed Lok Sabha that the Lashkar-e-Taiba top commander Suleman, involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, was among the three terrorists killed by security forces during the recent Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir. "... In the Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal..., Afghan and Jibran, these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police... Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist... All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated...," Shah said during the second debate on the Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. The top BJP leader said, " All three terrorists - Suleman, Afghan and Jibran were killed in yesterday's operation. The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier. Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by those who were kept detained by our agencies." The anti-terror Operation Mahadev took place in the general area of Lidwas, Chinar Corps of Indian Army said. "OP MAHADEV - Contact established in General Area Lidwas. Operation in progress," the Chinar Corp said in a post on X. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of posting a fake video over an assault on a Bengali-speaking woman and her child, which he claims is misleading and inappropriate. He emphasised that no one, including Mamata Banerjee, is above the law and that she must be held accountable under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Adhikari alleged that Mamata Banerjee has not retracted her misleading post, despite calls for action from the Delhi Police. "Mamata Banerjee, as the administrative head of West Bengal and a senior politician, has irresponsibly shared a fabricated video. No one is above the law, and she must be held accountable under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Despite demands from the Delhi Police, she has not withdrawn her misleading post," he said. Earlier on Monday, Delhi Police dismissed the allegations made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee about a Bengali-speaking woman and her child being assaulted by Delhi Police officials, calling the viral video "fabricated" and "baseless." Addressing the media, Deputy Commissioner of Police (East Delhi) Abhishek Dhania said, "West Bengal CM posted on 'X' that a Bengali-speaking woman and her child were assaulted by the Delhi Police. Right after receiving the information, we initiated the inquiry and discovered that the lady's name is Sanjanu Parveen... During the interrogation, she said that on 26th July, around 10:30 pm, four policemen who were in their civil clothes came to their house and took them away to a secluded area where they beat them up and demanded Rs. 25,000 from them, which they gave them." The DCP stated that after a thorough investigation, the allegation posed by the lady was baseless. "Understanding the seriousness of the situation, we have formed multiple teams since last night. Based on technical and local intelligence, as well as CCTV footage, we have gathered various evidence. Based on that evidence, we found out that the whole story told by this lady is baseless," he said. "During the interrogation, she mentioned that her relative, who lives in the Malda district of West Bengal, is a political worker, and on his request, she made this baseless video and shared it with him. Later, he circulated the video in the local media... After a thorough investigation and inquiry, we have concluded that the entire video is baseless and fabricated. This video has been deliberately circulated on social media to tarnish the image of the Delhi Police. Further investigation is still going on," DCP Dhania added. (ANI) Stating that offering milk to "snakes" may be appropriate on the occasion of 'Nag Panchami' today, but not every day, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said Operation Sindoor against cross-border terrorism will continue without a "full stop." Singh made it clear that India would no longer tolerate cross-border terrorism under any pretext, including nuclear threats from Pakistan. "I would like to say that today is Nag Panchami. On the day of Nag Panchami, it is appropriate to offer milk to snakes, but not every day. Our vision is that Operation Sindoor continues steadily. There may be pauses in between, but there will never be a full stop," Singh said in the Rajya Sabha. Nag Panchami is a traditional Hindu festival marked by the worshipping of (nagas) snakes. Criticising those who advocate 'only negotiation' with Pakistan, Singh said, "Some people think that since Pakistan has nuclear weapons, we should only negotiate with them. Because of this nuclear bluff, we have lost countless civilians. Our vision is that we will respond (appropriately) to a brick with a stone." He challenged the Opposition to present a clear alternative to the government's action. "If the opposition feels that we did not do the right thing by conducting Operation Sindoor, then I invite them to tell the public what their alternative action plan is. When the sindoor of our mothers and sisters has been wiped away, should we engage in diplomatic talks with Pakistan? Should we hand over dossiers to Pakistan? Should we go to international organisations and just talk?" Singh asked. He claimed that the current government had eliminated over 100 terrorists during Operation Sindoor. "If viewed in the context of Operation Sindoor, when the sindoor of our 25 Indian mothers and sisters was destroyed, our government did what it deemed appropriate, and we took down more than 100 terrorists." Singh also accused previous governments of failing to act decisively, which, he said, encouraged terrorist groups to see India as a soft target. "Terrorists had considered India a soft state. For them, carrying out a terrorist attack on India had become a kind of low-cost and high-return affair. Two or four of their novice recruits would come, harm our citizens, and leave. Previous governments quietly watched this spectacle," he said. Referring to game theory, the Defence Minister said, "Pakistan and terrorists have always kept India as their target. But under the leadership of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we have ensured that we will change this pay-off calculus for Pakistan and make terrorism a high-cost venture for them." Highlighting the shift in India's defence posture, he added, "The significance of Operation Sindoor in terms of the future is that the Indian citizen is no longer a vulnerable citizen of a soft country, but an ordinary Indian is now a proud citizen of a strong state." He also quoted religious texts to argue that India's cultural heritage never promoted weakness. "Goswami Tulsidas Ji says at one place, 'Tulsi mastak tab nave, jab dhanush baan leu haath...' meaning, O Lord, you may be ever so beautiful, charming, and gentle. That is very good. But Tulsi's forehead will bow before you only when you hold the bow and arrow. There came a time when Hindustanis were considered weak, but now we are redefining our identity, and Operation Sindoor is an example of that," he said. "I am using the word re-discovery instead of discovery here because, if you look at it from mythological times, our Gods and Goddesses... have always wielded weapons and destroyed their enemies. They have never taught us the lesson of cowardice," Singh added. Earlier during his address, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Army and security forces for the success of Operation Sindoor, saying the operation was carefully planned to target terrorists while ensuring no harm to ordinary citizens in Pakistan. He also congratulated the forces for killing three TRF terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, adding that they were from the same group that had "brutally killed 26 innocent and blameless people" in Pahalgam on April 22. Speaking during a special discussion on the operation in the Rajya Sabha, Singh said, "I congratulate the Indian Army and other security forces through this House for their success in eliminating three TRF terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir yesterday. This is the same TRF whose terrorists brutally killed 26 innocent and blameless people in the Poonch area on April 22." He said the aim of the Operation Sindoor was to eliminate terrorist hideouts and reinforce India's zero-tolerance on terrorism. "The purpose of this operation was to destroy terrorist hideouts and to send a clear message that India maintains zero tolerance against terrorism," Singh said. The Defence Minister noted that the operation was based on detailed planning. "Before executing Operation Sindoor, our forces thoroughly studied every aspect. We had several options. But we chose the option that would cause maximum damage to terrorists and their bases while ensuring no harm to Pakistan's ordinary citizens," he said. Singh also praised the armed forces for their overall contribution to national security. "The role of our armies and other security forces in ensuring India's internal and external security cannot be praised enough," he added. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah informed the Lok Sabha that Lashkar-e-Taiba's top commander Suleman, involved in the recent Pahalgam terror attack, was among three terrorists killed in Operation Mahadev, also conducted in Jammu and Kashmir. "In the Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal..., Afghan and Jibran, these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police... Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist... All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated...," Shah said during the second debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. He added, "All three terrorists - Suleman, Afghan and Jibran - were killed in yesterday's operation. The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier. Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by those who were kept detained by our agencies." Shah said that those responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack had been neutralised. "In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," he told the House. "Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families by asking their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones," Shah added. (ANI) Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP Kanimozhi on Tuesday criticised Union Home Minister Amit Shah over his remarks during the Operation Sindoor debate in Lok Sabha, accusing him of shifting the blame on somebody else and trying to talk about what happened many years ago. Speaking to ANI, Kanimozhi alleged that there was no constructive discussion about their replies in the Lok Sabha, which was the most important aspect, in which the government has completely failed. "He was only trying to shift the blame on somebody else and trying to talk about history and what happened many years ago. There was no constructive discussion or replies on what needs to be done and who will take responsibility for what happened," Kanimozhi said. Earlier today, Kanimozhi launched a scathing attack on the Centre during the Lok Sabha debate on Operation Sindoor, questioning its handling of recent terror incidents and accusing it of deflecting accountability. She emphasised that the government's failure to learn from past mistakes has led to a lack of trust among the people. "What has the Vishwaguru learnt from these terror attacks? You can't keep talking about Operation Sindoor and expect us not to ask questions. This is a failure of a government that has failed the people of this country. You can't keep talking about the past and expect us to forget today's issues. Vishwaguru has not learnt any lessons. He has not taught anything," Kanimozhi said. Kanimozhi countered Home Minister Amit Shah's speech, which she said implied that opposition parties were "less patriotic," reminding him that the DMK was the first party to take out a rally in support of the Defence forces and stood with the government during the all-party meeting. "The Home Minister, in his speech, made us sound less patriotic. We have never failed this nation. The DMK was the first party which took out a rally in support of our Defence forces. When you called for an all-party meeting, we came and said that we stand with you," the DMK MP said. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday trained guns on Congress amid the ongoing debate in Parliament on Operation Sindoor, and said that there would be no Pakistan if they didn't accept partition. "Pakistan is Congress' mistake. If they had not accepted partition, there would have been no Pakistan today," Shah said while addressing the Lok Sabha. The Union Home Minister held former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru responsible for India's not being a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He further alleged that the Gandhi family's "love for China" has been passed down from three generations. "Today, China is in the UN Security Council, and India is not. Modi is trying his best to get India to become a part of the UN Security Council. Jawaharlal Nehru's stand is responsible for this. When our jawans were facing Chinese soldiers in Doklam, Rahul Gandhi was holding a meeting with the Chinese ambassador. This love for China has passed down three generations from Jawaharlal Nehru, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi," Shah said. (ANI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday highlighted the significance of Operation Sindoor, stating that it has turned out to be a "game-changer" for India and people of the country will no longer remain just "vulnerable citizens" of a "soft country" but be proud citizens. Addressing the Upper House on Operation Sindoor, the Defence Minister said, "Op Sindoor has turned out to be a game-changer. The future significance of Op Sindoor is that a citizen of India is no longer a vulnerable citizen of some soft country, but rather a common Indian is now a proud citizen of a strong India." The Union Minister invoked Game Theory to explain Pakistan's approach to terrorism. Referring to senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram, Singh said, "There is one theory of economics, that is "Game Theory" which is possibly is known by Chidambaram Sahab. It suggests that when an act involves low cost and high return, people tend to continue or enjoy it." He said Pakistan and terrorist groups had applied this approach to target India. "Pakistan and terrorists have always targeted India under this game theory. But under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the government has decided that we will change this play of calculus for Pakistan. We are determined to turn terrorism into a cost-based misadventure for them. So that if something happens to even one of our Indian citizens, it should be in the minds of terrorists that we will root out their entire terror base." Hitting out at the Opposition for questioning the government on Operation Sindoor, Singh stated that the opposition also has the responsibility of proposing alternative policies and action plans. Singh stated, "Yesterday I had mentioned in Lok Sabha that in democracy the opposition is entrusted with the responsibility by the people to ask appropriate questions to the government, but they also have the responsibility of proposing alternative policy or action plan if they do not agree with the Centre's policy." The Defence Minister reiterated that there is just "comma" and not "full stop" on Operation Sindoor. "If we look at the results of Op Sindoor, we did whatever the government felt was right and killed more than 100 terrorists. Even today there is only viraam (pause) on Operation Sindoor, not a purn viraam (complete rest). There is a comma, not a full stop," he said. Sharpening his attacks on the opposition, the Union Minister asked which previous governments had taken similar steps like Operation Sindoor following terrorist attacks. Singh stated, "If they feel that Op Sindoor was not the right, then they should tell the public what is their alternative action plan for it. Should we engage with Pakistan, should we hand over the dossier to Pakistan? Should we go to international organisations and only talk? When our opponents were in power, did they take similar steps during terrorist attacks? Some people feel that Pakistan has nuclear weapons, so we should only talk to them, not aggravate them. We have lost many citizens because of this nuclear bluff." The Union Minister affirmed, "We will give 'eent ka jawab pathar se." "Bharat Mata ki maang mein shaurya ka sindoor hai, toh us par rajneeti ki dhool mat daliye. Itihaas aise logon ko maaf nahi karta. (The valour of our soldiers is the sacred sindoor adorning Bharat Mata's forehead don't tarnish it with the dust of politics, history does not forgive such acts. he said). (ANI) Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Dimple Yadav on Tuesday called on the BJP-led Central government to take full responsibility for the Pahalgam attack on April 22, as the tourists trusted their words that the "normalcy" had been restored in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the debate on Operation Sindoor, Yadav questioned the government over the occurrence of the incident, further stating that the government will have to take responsibility and accountability. "The terrorist attack in Pahalgam was a blow to the security of the country. On the one hand, the government kept saying that everything was normal in Kashmir. Somewhere down the line, the government tried to set a narrative of normalcy in Kashmir at the cost of national security. The Pahalgam result is a result of the same. I question the government about why the incident happened. Does the life of the Indians hold no value?" Dimple Yadav said. The Mainpuri MP further stated that the government must hold complete accountability for the incident, further stating that the incident took place at a time when the US President JD Vance was in India and security had been increased in the Kashmir valley. "This government is completely responsible for this incident. They will have to take responsibility for this and set accountability. When this incident occurred, US Vice President JD Vance was in India. Whenever such VIP guests are in India, security is increased inthe Kashmir Valley. But the failure this time...Tourists were going to Kashmir trusting your words, trusting that they were safe..." Yadav further stated. Earlier, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, called out to Home Minister Amit Shah to take responsibility for the attack while speaking during the debate on Operation Sindoor in the Upper House. Kharge raised questions on the accountability of the government, further claiming that repeated intelligence lapses took place in the country since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to rule. "Since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has come to rule, there have been attacks in the country, and yet there has been no action taken on it. Uri and Pathankot attack in 2016, the Pulawama attack in 2019 and now the Pahalgam attack in 2025. All these incidents have made it clear that there has been a recurring intelligence failure and a failure in the national security... I want to ask the Home Minister on who is taking accountability for this? What has the government done to rectify the mistakes in the intelligence failures? If you are responsible, vacate your post. If no, what action has the Prime Minister been taking...?" Kharge said. (ANI) The Blind Spot of the West: Failed Collaboration With Jihadists The Druze community in Sweida and the nearby villages in southern Syria is still under an urgent threat of massacre. Since July 13, Bedouins and Arab tribes, along with Syrian and foreign jihadists, reportedly in cooperation with forces loyal to the Sharaa regime, have launched unprovoked but vicious attacks against the Druze community. These attacks have claimed the lives of many Druze civilians, including children, women, and the disabled, as well as hospitalized patients. Their religious symbols have been desecrated, and their mustaches, of enormous cultural and social significance, have been forcibly shaved. Moreover, civilian sites in Sweida and adjacent villages have been reduced to ruins. Syrian Druze leader Hikmat al-Hijri and Israeli Druze Sheikh Muwaffaq Tarif have issued urgent pleas to the international community to protect the Druze community in Sweida from looming genocide. International response to the situation In response, Israeli airstrikes targeted jihadist positions in an effort to protect the Druze population and prevent a massacre reminiscent of the Alawite tragedy on Syria's west coast. This intervention significantly pushed back Sunni jihadist forces from Sweida and helped save many Druze lives. International actors, such as the United States, mediated negotiations between the Druze resistance forces and jihadist regime elements, leading to three agreements on ceasefires and curfews. However, different factions within the Sunni jihadist coalition have repeatedly violated these agreements. Amid this chaos, the Turkish government is reportedly transporting large numbers of jihadist militants from northern Syria to the south, toward Sweida, further escalating the conflict. Ankara has also threatened the Kurds in Rojava not to make any moves contributing to the safety of the Druze community and intensified its hostile rhetoric toward Israel. This tragedy affecting the Druze community is not an isolated event. Since the Sunni jihadist takeover under the self-appointed interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa (Abu Mohammad al-Julani) on January 29, 2025, Syria's minority communities -- including Alawites, Druze, Kurds, and Christians -- have faced severe persecution. Between March 6 and 17, jihadist groups affiliated with Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham, al-Qaeda, ISIS, and others massacred over 1,400 Alawite civilians. The jihadist regime in Damascus, in coordination with US Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy for Syria Thomas J. Barrack, as well as the representatives of the Erdogan regime, has repeatedly pressured the Kurds to disband the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and integrate into a still-nonexistent Syrian army. Meanwhile, the Christian community has suffered devastating terrorist attacks, including those on June 22 at a church in Damascus that killed 25 civilians and injured over 70 others. What lies at the root of these genocidal actions by the jihadist regime in Damascus? Critical issues to be addressed Several critical issues need to be addressed to better grasp the root of the atrocities and the dilemma that ethnically and religiously minority communities in Syria are experiencing at the hands of the jihadist groups. These include, but are not limited to, Islamist intolerance toward cultural and religious difference, the subversive policy of neighboring Turkey, and the deliberate failure of the Western powers to acknowledge these factors due to short-sighted geopolitical interests. Minority communities pay a high price when these issues are ignored: their lives, the erasure of their identities, and the destruction of their communities. Sharaa's biography embodies the trajectory of jihadist groups in Iraq and Syria. He was ideologically and militarily trained by and fought alongside Abu Musab al-Zarqawi in the 2000s, the head of al-Qaeda in Iraq. During this time, he reportedly participated in multiple terrorist attacks against Kurdish-Yazidi communities and American forces. Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi dispatched him to Syria in the 2010s to establish the Al-Nusra Front, which later rejected a merger with ISIS. However, despite their differing interpretations of strict Islamic teachings, al-Qaeda, ISIS, and Al-Nusra share several key similarities: They all reject secular values, are intolerant of non-Sunni Muslims and non-Arab groups, and seek to enforce a strict interpretation of Sharia law. Within this context, gender equality, peace, and cultural, ethnic, and religious pluralism are anathema. These jihadist groups instead promote a homogenized Islamic culture that represents the Arab worldview. This jihadist vision is fundamentally incompatible with the multi-ethnic, multi-religious composition of Syrian society, sharing diverse cultures, lifestyles, and worldviews. The solution these jihadists deliver to address these differences is the extermination of minority communities framed as infidels due to their religious, cultural, and social nonconformity. We know these jihadist methods from the genocidal atrocities of ISIS against the Kurdish-Yazidi community in Iraq and Syria in 2014, the Turkey-sponsored ethnic cleansing of Kurds from Afrin in 2018, the atrocities committed by Hamas against innocent Israelis in 2023, and recent jihadist massacres against the Alawite community. Moreover, jihadists under various banners have extended their deadly attacks to Europe, targeting the innocent people in Berlin, Paris, Brussels, Stockholm, London, and other cities. Despite a wide range of harrowing and traumatizing experiences with the jihadists, the representatives of the Western states, including Barrack, continue not only to collaborate but also to empower and legitimize them in coordination with "allies" such as Turkey and Qatar, helping them to proceed toward the establishment of an ethnically and religiously homogenized, anti-Western, and antisemitic state governed by Sharia law. Integration into the international community Western governments pursue the integration of these jihadists into the international community, even at the cost of eradicating cultural diversity in Syria. It is tragic that Western governments, whose societies suffered immensely from the terrorist attacks of these jihadists, allow these very same groups to once again grow in influence across Syria, with Qatari funding and Turkish training, logistics, weapons delivery, and diplomatic support. The Turkish regime has a track record of subversive policies, having overtly and covertly supported al-Qaeda, ISIS, and other jihadist groups with weapons, intelligence, transportation, and freedom of mobility in Turkey, enabling many to cross the Turkish-Greek borders toward Europe. The relationship between the Turkish regime and the Muslim Brotherhood, its expansionism, and its efforts to secure Muslim leadership in the Middle East and beyond have been widely reported on. By entrusting the Turkish government with the task of designing a new Syrian state, Western policies contribute to the looming threat of genocide against diverse communities in Syria, undermining regional stability and pluralism. The same is true of efforts to legitimize Sharaa. In the many voice recordings of him circulating on social media, he openly expresses the end goal of occupying Jerusalem to free al-Aqsa. In simple words, the Western actors fail to comprehend that their policies regarding the empowerment and consolidation of jihadists under Sharaa's leadership contribute to the formation of radical Islamist hubs that threaten diverse indigenous communities and their vision of a stable, pluralistic, and democratic Syria at peace with the West and with Israel. It is imperative for Western powers to abandon short-term policies and instead adopt a sustainable approach that promotes stability and peaceful coexistence in a united Syria. This must include recognition of the importance of cooperation with local forces that share their values and genuinely seek a stable Syria with a sustainable future. The long-term experiences of diverse populations in northern and eastern Syria exemplify the viability of their secular and pluralistic model embracing all diverse ethnic and religious communities, including the Sunni Arabs, Yazidi Kurds, Christians, and Assyrians. These communities have actively implemented this inclusive model, working to create a society founded on ethnic and religious pluralism, gender equality, and peace. To achieve this goal, these communities have fought fiercely against ISIS, which is the predecessor of today's jihadists under Sharaa's leadership. Once again, the Western powers might reflect on this model, which has been capable of protecting Alawite, Druze, Christian, and Kurdish lives and has united these communities, allowing them to manage their own cultural and social affairs. Such a coalition among indigenous communities would also guarantee the security and political interests of Israel. The writer is a research fellow at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Greece on Sunday was still battling wildfires that have ravaged homes and sparked evacuations across the country, but firefighters have brought many outbreaks under control. According to the Fire Brigade, 55 new fires erupted in the last 24 hours but 50 were immediately controlled. Firefighters were working on five major fire fronts late Sunday in the Peloponnese area west of Athens, as well as on the islands of Evia, Kythera and Crete. "Today is expected to be a difficult day with a very high risk of fire, almost throughout the territory," fire brigade spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis warned Sunday morning, though he added that the situation was improving. Forecasters predicted that strong winds that have been fanning the flames would die down on Sunday in most areas. But they warned that Kythera, a popular tourist island with 3,600 inhabitants, which lies off the south-eastern tip of the Peloponnese, continued to face "worrying" conditions. Giorgos Komninos, deputy mayor of Kythera, told the state-run ERT News channel that half of Kythera had been charred. "Houses, beehives, olive trees have been burnt," he said. ERT reported that a fire was still burning on the island late Sunday, but in smaller fronts and the situation was improving. Dozens of firefighters supported by three helicopters and two aircraft were battling the Kythera blaze, which erupted Saturday and forced the evacuation of people stranded on a popular tourist beach. Local authorities have requested a state of emergency so that stepped-up assistance can be provided for the island, which was previously stricken by a major fire in 2017. The Egnatia highway, a key route across the north of the country, was closed in both directions Sunday afternoon near the inland town of Kozani because of a fire fanned by strong winds, ERT said. Traffic was diverted to an old highway. Six regions of Greece still faced a very high fire risk on Sunday, according to officials. Greece requested help on Saturday and two Italian aircraft were expected to arrive Sunday, the fire brigade said. Units from the Czech Republic are already at work. Numerous flare-ups were reported Sunday afternoon on the island of Evia, near Athens, where flames laid waste to swathes of forest and killed thousands of farm animals. Workers have toiled throughout the day to repair serious damage to Evia's electricity network and some villages were facing water supply disruptions. On Crete, reports said fires that started Saturday were now largely contained. In Kryoneri, north of Athens, police reportedly bolstered security as fears grow that looters could target houses abandoned by residents fleeing a fire that erupted Saturday but which was mostly contained on Sunday. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis wrote on social media that anyone who lost possessions "should know that the state will be by their side". He said the struggle to block the flames on Saturday had been "titanic", but "the picture today looks better and the battle continues with all available resources". Greece has endured heatwave conditions for a week, with temperatures surpassing 40C degrees (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in many areas. On Saturday, the temperature reached 45.2C in Amfilohia, in western Greece. On Sunday, the maximum temperature was 42.4C in Thiva, central Greece. The extreme heat was expected to subside from Monday. Last month, fires on Greece's fifth-biggest island of Chios, in the northern Aegean, destroyed 4,700 hectares (11,600 acres) of land, while early July a wildfire on Crete forced the evacuation of 5,000 people. Greece, like many countries, is experiencing hotter summers stoked by human-induced climate change, which increases the length, frequency and intensity of heatwaves, which favours wildfires. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Ravi Shankar Prasad on Tuesday asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi not only preaches zero tolerance towards terrorism but also demonstrates it through his actions. "When the BJP and Prime Minister Modi talk about zero tolerance towards terrorism, they also demonstrate it through their actions," the BJP MP told mediapersons outside parliament. Further reacting to Union Home Minister Amit Shah's address to the Lok Sabha during the discussion of Operation Sindoor, he said, "Union Home Minister Amit Shah has informed the country about the entire history of the Congress party regarding China, Pakistan, and Kashmir issues and has also spoken about the strict actions taken against terrorism." Earlier in the day, Amit Shah criticised Congress amid the ongoing debate in Parliament on Operation Sindoor and said that there would be no Pakistan if they didn't accept partition. "Today, China is in the UN Security Council, and India is not. Modi is trying his best to get India to become a part of the UN Security Council. Jawaharlal Nehru's stand is responsible for this. When our jawans were facing Chinese soldiers in Doklam, Rahul Gandhi was holding a meeting with the Chinese ambassador. This love for China has passed down three generations from Jawaharlal Nehru, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi," Shah said. Shah, in his address, also confirmed that three terrorists who were involved in the killing of civilians were eliminated by the security forces during Operation Mahadev. "In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," Shah said while addressing the lower house. "Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families by asking their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones," he added. The Home Minister also informed Lok Sabha that the Lashkar-e-Taiba top commander Suleman, involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, was among the three terrorists killed by security forces during the recent Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir. "... In Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal, Afghan and Jibran--these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police... Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist... All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated...," Shah said during the second debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey on Tuesday slammed the Congress for asking details about India's supposed loss of warplanes during Operation Sindoor. He also emphasised that the BJP-led government at the Centre is resolved to eliminate every terrorist and make Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir part of India. "Do you know how many warplanes Indian lost in the 1962, 1965 and 1971 wars? Those were not discussed in Parliament. We did not ask for details," Dubey said during the debate on the Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. "We are patriotic citizens. BJP was born out of patriotism. Syama Prasad Mookerjee sacrificed his life to save Kashmir," he added. Nishikant Dubey said that the previous Congress governments at the Centre did not oppose the IMF loans to Pakistan. In contrast, India, for the first time, opposed the IMF loan to Pakistan after Operation Sindoor. "From 1948 to 2010, the World Bank and the IMF had been giving Pakistan loans. You have not raised a single question over it. However, we have opposed the IMF's decision to give a loan to Pakistan following Operation Sindoor," he said. Dubey claimed that India had lost 45 aircraft and 71 aircraft in the 1965 and 1971 wars, respectively. "For us, every citizen is important. We will eliminate all terrorists. We will make Pakistan-occupied Kashmir part of India. It is our resolve, and it is our new normal," he said. Earlier on Monday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh targeted the opposition in the Lok Sabha, accusing them of prioritising the wrong questions during the opening debate on Operation Sindoor. Replying to the questions raised by the Opposition during the Parliament monsoon session about possible Indian aircraft losses, Singh said that their questions did not represent the national sentiments. "In every country, citizens hand over different duties to the opposition and the government. The government's role is to work for the citizens, and the Opposition's role is to ask questions of the government on important matters related to citizens. Few members of the Opposition have been asking how many of our aircraft were shot down? I feel their question does not adequately represent our national sentiments," Singh said. Singh further hailed Operation Sindoor, saying that the military operation that was launched on May 7 in response to the Phalgam terror attack was a "success." "If they must ask a question, it should be whether India destroyed terrorist bases, and the answer to that is, yes... If you have a question to ask, it should be whether Operation Sindoor was a success. The answer is yes. Were terror heads destroyed? Yes. If you have a question to ask, ask this: Were any of our brave soldiers harmed in this operation? The answer is, no, none of our soldiers were harmed...," he further said. (ANI) YSR Congress Party on Tuesday took strong objection to the "restrictions" being imposed in Nellore in the wake of former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's visit. "Notices were issued to our leaders, and many restrictions were imposed to scuttle the scheduled visit of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy to Nellore jail, where he will visit Kakani Govardhan Reddy, who was detained illegally," Former TTD Chairman and YSR Congress leader Bhumana Karunakar Reddy said. "The official machinery should understand that YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is a popular leader and has a large following, and the Party need not mobilise any crowd as people will voluntarily come on their own, and it is absurd to issue notices to our leaders and impose restrictions about people gathering during his visit," he added. Taking a dig at the P4 concept of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, he said, there was a shift from governance to philosophy and helping the poor is a philanthropic work and is in no way part of governance. He alleged that Chandrababu has amassed so much wealth for himself that he can sponsor the 20 lakh families identified for P4, thereby avoiding the need to coerce the state administration and set targets. "None of the TDP MLAs and leaders had come forward to sponsor any family under the much hyped P4 concept, but they started collecting funds in the name of P4, which shows the way governance is being run in the State," he said. Jagan Mohan Reddy will be visiting the SPSR Nellore district on July 31. Meanwhile, Former minister and YSRCP East Godavari district president Chelluboina Srinivasa Venugopala Krishna expressed severe anger over the condition of welfare hostels under the coalition government led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. Speaking to the media at Rajamahendravaram Press Club, Krishna stated that the coalition government is playing with the lives of students. "Substandard food is being served in hostels. Quality menu schemes have been scrapped. Hostels have turned into living hells due to government negligence," he alleged. He blamed Education Minister Nara Lokesh's inefficiency for the deteriorating state of hostel facilities, stating that even proper meals are not being provided. (ANI) Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said on Tuesday that the State Government has given approval for the establishment of District and Additional Sessions Court as well as a Senior Civil Court in Pimpri Chinchwad. Pawar shared a post on his official 'X' handle and informed about the development. Pawar termed the decision a historic and reassuring one. "A historic and reassuring decision by the state cabinet for Pimpri-Chinchwad residents..! The state cabinet has today approved the establishment of a District and Additional Sessions Court as well as a Senior Civil Court in Pimpri-Chinchwad," Ajit Pawar said. He stated that the decision is a matter of great satisfaction and thanked Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and the cabinet. "This decision, which is reassuring and historic for Pimpri-Chinchwad residents, has taken concrete shape today, which is a matter of great satisfaction. I wholeheartedly thank the Chief Minister and the entire cabinet. A rapidly developing municipal corporation like Pimpri-Chinchwad urgently needed an independent District and Sessions Court. I am delighted that citizens will now receive justice from local courts without having to go to Pune," he wrote on 'X'. Earlier on July 26, Ajit Pawar conducted an early morning visit to the Hinjewadi area of Pune district to review ongoing efforts to address pressing civic issues in the region. The visit was followed by a meeting with concerned officials. The inspection followed the first spell of monsoon rains, which caused significant waterlogging and traffic disruptions in the Hinjewadi area, prompting local residents to raise concerns. Acting on directives from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Ajit Pawar and other senior officials were instructed to conduct weekly site visits and monitor the progress of remedial measures. "Most of the problems in Hinjewadi have now been resolved, which the local residents themselves have acknowledged," said Pawar after the review. "To reach this point, we had to make some difficult decisions. While our intention is not to inconvenience anyone, resolving traffic congestion and waterlogging requires the removal of illegal constructions and encroachments. That work is currently underway," he said. (ANI) Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday criticised the Government's handling of 'Operation Sindoor' and referring to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's statement in Parliament alleged that India showed to Pakistan its limits and that it did not have the "political will" to fight. Addressing the Lower House during a debate on Operation Sindoor, the Congress MP said, "Yesterday I watched Rajnath Singh's speech. I listened quite carefully when people speak. He said that Operation Sindoor began at 1.05 in the morning. He said that Operation Sindoor lasted 22 minutes. Then he said the most shocking thing - at 1.35, we had called Pakistan and told them that we hit non-military targets and we do not want escalation...Maybe he does not understand what he revealed. The DGMO of India was told by the government of India to ask for a ceasefire at 1.35 at night itself on the night of Operation Sindoor..." "You told the Pakistanis exactly what you would do. You told them we would not hit military targets, you told them we do not want escalation... It means you have directly told Pakistan that you do not have the political will to fight. This is said by the Defence Minister. It means the government of India informed the Pakistani government that we have no political will, we don't want to fight. Surrender, immediate surrender in 30 minutes," the Congress MP added. Rahul Gandhi also referenced Rajnath Singh's remarks in Lok Sabha yesterday in which the Defence Minister compared Operation Sindoor to the 1971 war stating that there was big difference to the situation then, where one lakh Pakistani soldiers had surrendered. "Yesterday, Rajnath Singh ji compared 1971 war and Operation Sindoor and I want to remind him, there was a political will in 1971... In 1971, India had political will. Indira Gandhi gave Sam Manekshaw full freedom, even when US ships moved in." Referring to the remarks of Chief of Defence Staff Lieutenant General Anil Chauhan and Captain Shiv Kumar, Defence Attache, Indonesia, Rahul Gandhi further alleged that India lost its fighter jets because armed forces were "constrained by political leadership." The LoP stated, "Second thing he (Defence Minister) said - He told the Pakistanis that we are not going to hit any of your military infrastructure. This is an interesting fact. I said freedom of manoeuvre, meaning freedom to the air force. Captain Shiv Kumar, Defence Attache, Indonesia, says - I may not agree with him that India lost so many aircrafts, but I do agree we did lose some aircrafts, that happened only because of the constraints given by the political leadership to not attack the military establishments and their air defence." "It means - You went into Pakistan and told our pilots not to attack their air defence systems. It means you told your pilots to go and attack Pakistan and face their air defence system. It means you tied their hands behind their back. The point is, aircraft were lost. It means you started and said you do not have the political will and you won't attack military establishments, and then asked the pilots to fight. Everybody knows the result; you do not want to give answers, but everybody knows the result..." Gandhi said. Claiming that India lost its fighter jets, Gandhi held the Central government responsible for this, asserting that no tactical mistake was made by the air force. The LoP said, "I want to say to CDS General Anil Chauhan ji, you made no tactical mistake, the Indian air force made no mistake, the mistake was made by the political leadership that said you cannot attack the military infrastructure. The air force is not to blame at all." (ANI) Patna District Magistrate Thiyagarajan on Tuesday conducted an inquiry regarding the issue of a residential certificate with the name 'Dog Babu' in the district. The DM, accompanied by City Superintendent of Police (East), Sub-Divisional Officer, Land Reforms Deputy Collector, District Public Grievance Redressal Officer and other officials, visited the Block-cum-Circle Office in Masaurhi to investigate the case. The DM stated that the certificate was issued on the basis of forged documents, and was not an inadvertent mistake but a deliberate attempt to defame the state government and district administration. "Strict legal action will be taken against those who have made this malicious attempt," the official stated. As per preliminary inquiry, the application for the certificate included an Aadhaar card belonging to a woman from Delhi. Despite the misleading information, the revenue officer approved and issued the residential certificate without conducting due verification. An FIR has been lodged against the applicant, the IT assistant involved in processing the application, and the revenue officer who issued the certificate. The Revenue and Land Reforms Department has been recommended to suspend the revenue officer, while the IT assistant has been dismissed from service with immediate effect. Officials further confirmed that the application was processed through the RO login without proper scrutiny, and the issued residential certificate has since been cancelled. An investigation is ongoing against the applicant for identity misuse and providing false evidence to obtain official documents. Authorities assured that all those involved in the incident will face stringent action. The certificate, which has surfaced on social media platforms, lists 'Dog Babu' as a resident of Masaurhi, accompanied by a picture of a dog in the top right corner. The certificate also mentions the names of its parents as 'Kutta Babu' (father) and 'Kutiya Devi' (mother). A day earlier, Swaraj Party leader Yogendra Yadav mocked the Bihar government over the issue and pointed out that this was the same residence certificate that had been requested from voters in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise being carried out by the Election Commission of India. "See it with your own eyes! On July 24 in Bihar, a dog got a residence certificate issued. This is the same certificate that is being accepted in Bihar under SIR, while Aadhaar and ration cards are being called fake. Check the photo and name yourself: 'Dog Babu', father's name 'Kutta Babu', mother's name 'Kutiya Babu', and address - Kaulichak Mohalla, Ward Number 15, Masaurhi Municipal Council. The certificate number is BRCCO/2025/15933581," Yogendra Yadav posted on X. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday issued a stern warning to Pakistan from the Lok Sabha that if they dare to imagine doing anything against India, then they will be given a befitting reply as India's Operation Sindoor is still underway. Speaking during the Operation Sindoor debate, PM Modi said, "Operation Sindoor is going on. Pakistan ne 'dussahas ki kalpana ki toh, usse karara javab diya jayega (If Pakistan dares to imagine any such misadventure, it will be given a befitting reply)." The Prime Minister also launched a scathing attack on Congress, saying the party is dependent on Pakistan for issues, while India is moving ahead at a fast pace towards self-reliance. "On one hand, India is moving ahead at a fast pace towards self-reliance, but Congress is becoming dependent on Pakistan for issues. Unfortunately, Congress is importing issues from Pakistan", PM Modi said. Sharpening his attacks on the opposition, PM Modi said that they just need a reason to oppose, which is why the country is laughing at them. "Terrorists are crying, their masterminds are crying and seeing them cry, some people are crying here too. They tried to play a game during the surgical strike, but it didn't work. During the airstrike, they tried playing another game. That didn't work either. When Operation Sindoor took place, they adopted a new tactic - "Why did you stop?"...Waah re bayan bahaduron! You need one or the other excuse to oppose. So, not just me but the entire country is laughing at you," PM Modi said. Further, Prime Minister Modi emphasised that he had told US Vice President JD Vance, who had warned him of a significant Pakistani attack during a phone call on May 9, that if the neighbouring country had such an intention, India would respond more powerfully. "On the night of 9th May, the Vice President of America tried to talk to me. He tried for an hour, but I was in a meeting with my army, so I could not pick up his call. Later, I called him back. The Vice President of America told me on the phone that Pakistan is going to launch a big attack. My answer was that if Pakistan has this intention, it will cost them a lot. If Pakistan attacks, we will respond by launching a big attack. This was my answer," the Prime Minister asserted. The Prime Minister slammed the Congress, alleging that they were politicising the victims of the Pahalgam attack. "They were shaping their politics even in the murder of innocent people in Pahalgam. Just 3-4 days after the 22nd April terrorist attack, they (Congress) started jumping up and down. They started saying, "kahan gayi 56 inch ki chhati? (Where did the 56 inch chest go?)" "Kahan kho gaya Modi?" (Where has Modi disappeared?) "Modi has failed"...They were shaping their politics even in the murder of innocent people in Pahalgam", PM said. The Prime Minister said that the valour of Indian jawans didn't get the support of the Congress party; meanwhile, the country received global support following the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor. "A lot was said here on India's Foreign Policy. There were discussions on global support too...We received global support. But unfortunately, the valour of the brave jawans of my country did not get the support of Congress," PM said. Hailing the Operation Sindoor, PM Modi said that the masterminds of terror attacks cannot sleep as they know that Indian forces will come back and hit them. "Ab hamle ke baad mastermind ko nind nahi aaati, unko pata hain Bharat aayega aur maar kar jayega (Now after the attack the mastermind cannot sleep, he knows India will respond). This new normal has been set by India. 'Sindoor se leke Sindhu tak', we have taken action against Pakistan", PM Modi said. (ANI) Maharashtra Samajwadi President Abu Asim Azmi on Tuesday said that it would be great if the three terrorists killed in the Operation Mahadev were the same people who were involved in the Pahalgam attack that left 26 civilians dead. "The government wants to be praised. If they were the same people and they were killed, that's great," Azmi told ANI. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday announced in the Lok Sabha that three Pakistani Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack were killed by security forces during the recent Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir. Azmi, however, questioned the government on "security lapse" causing the Pahalgam attack. "The public has a question about why there was no security there that day, where these people came from, and they killed them so easily and went away. And now all those people were caught together and were killed," he said. "The 140 crore people want to know the answer to this. The families of the 26 victims did not receive justice. Today, you (the government) are saying that they were killed," Azmi said. Amit Shah revealed the details of the terrorists killed in Operation Mahadev. "... In the Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal..., Afghan and Jibran, these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police... Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist... All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated...," Shah said during the second debate on the Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. The top BJP leader said, " All three terrorists - Suleman, Afghan and Jibran were killed in yesterday's operation. The people who used to supply food to them were detained earlier. Once the bodies of these terrorists were brought to Srinagar, they were identified by those who were kept detained by our agencies." The anti-terror Operation Mahadev took place in the general area of Lidwas, the Chinar Corps of the Indian Army said. "OP MAHADEV - Contact established in General Area Lidwas. Operation in progress," the Chinar Corp said in a post on X. (ANI) The Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed two petitions of social activist Medha Patkar. She had challenged the conviction in a defamation case filed by incumbent LG VK Saxena. In the second petition, she had challenged the trial court's order denying her permission to call additional witnesses in a defamation case filed by her. Justice Shalinder Kaur dismissed the two petitions after hearing submissions of counsel for the petitioner and the respondent, LG VK Saxena. The court has granted three weeks' time to comply with the conditions of Probation. A detailed order is to be uploaded by the High Court. Advocate Gajinder Kumar, along with advocates Kiran Jai, Chander Shekhar, and Somya Arya, for LG VK Saxena. The Delhi High Court on July 15 reserved order on Social activist Medha Patkar's revision against conviction in a defamation case. She was convicted and sentenced in a defamation case filed by incumbent LG VK Saxena in 2001. However, the appellate court had sentenced her and directed her release on probation for good conduct for one year and payment of compensation of Rs. One lakh to Saxena. This order was challenged before the High Court by her. Earlier, on April 25, the high court had deferred the order of sentence awarded to Medha Patkar and directed her release. She was arrested pursuant to a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against her for non-compliance with the court's order. The High Court, as interim relief, had directed the release of her on bail. She was convicted and sentenced to 3 months' imprisonment by the Magistrate Court in the defamation case. "As contentious issues have been raised on behalf of the parties with respect to the suspension of sentence, and that the learned Senior Counsel submits that the petitioner has been taken in custody in execution of the NBW, therefore, in these circumstances, by way of an interim means, the petitioner be released on bail on furnishing a personal bond in the sum of Rs. 25,000 with one surety in the like amount to the satisfaction of the learned ASJ/Link ASJ/CMM/Duty Magistrate," Justice Shalinder Kaur had ordered on April 25. Medha Patkar had approached the Delhi High Court challenging the order of the Trial court convicting and sentencing her. The appellate court, while deciding her appeal on April 8, 2025, against Conviction and sentence by the Magistrate court, sentenced her and directed her release on probation of good conduct. The court had directed her to appear and furnish a probation bond and deposit a compensation amount on April 23, 2025. Earlier, she had approached the High Court seeking deferment. However, on April 22, the High Court had asked her to approach the appellate court at Saket. The Saket court had dismissed her application and issued an NBW against her. On May 24, 2024, the Magistrate's court held her guilty of defamation. On July 1, 2024, she was sentenced to three months' imprisonment. She was also directed to pay a compensation of Rs. 10 lakh to V K Saxena. She was granted bail to challenge the order. Subsequently, she had challenged the order before the appellate (Sessions) court. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the India Armed Forces avenged the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in 22 minutes with its Operation Sindoor by destroying terror launch pads in "different corners of Pakistan." Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on Operation Sindoor, the Prime Minister described the ongoing Parliament session as a "Vijay Utsav" (victory celebration) celebrating India's military strength and national unity after the success of the armed forces. He said that the Indian armed forces were given a free hand to take their own decisions when the conflict with Pakistan escalated in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor on May 7. "Right after the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan had this idea that India would indeed take major action and started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of 6-7 May, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything. Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks ... We destroyed terrorist camps in different corners of Pakistan," the Prime Minister said. "I had said that this is a session of India's 'Vijay Utsav' ... When I am speaking of 'Vijayotsav,' I would like to say - ye 'Vijay Utsav' aatanki headquarters ko mitti mein milane ka hai." When I say "Vijay Utsav, it is about India's brave and valiant defence forces. When I say Vijay Ustav, it is about the unity of 140 crore Indians," the PM stated in the Lower House of the Parliament. The Prime Minister thanked the countrymen for their support and blessing during Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives. "I stand here to present India's side before this House. Those who don't see India's side, I stand here to show them a mirror. During Operation Sindoor, the way people supported me and blessed me, I thank them," PM Modi emphasised. The Prime Minister also noted that the Pahalgam terror attack was a well-planned to spread riots in India. "On 22 April, the way terrorists killed tourists was by asking their religion. This was a well-planned attack to push India into violence. This was a plan to spread riots in India. I want to thank the countrymen; the country unitedly failed that conspiracy," PM Modi said. "I had said that this is our resolve that we will destroy the terrorists, and their leaders. They will get punished beyond their imagination. We have full faith in their Armed Forces' capability. The Armed Forces were given a free hand. They were told to decide the when, where and how... We are proud that terrorists were punished, and it was such a punishment that the terrorist masterminds have sleepless nights even to this day," he added. "I was abroad on 22nd April. I returned immediately. And immediately after coming back, I called a meeting and we gave clear instructions that a befitting reply has to be given to terrorism, and this is our national resolve," the Prime Minister said. PM Modi further stated that Operation Sindoor exposed Pakistan's nuclear bluff. "We proved Pakistan's nuclear blackmail as a lie. India will not bow down to Pakistan's nuclear blackmail. India showed its technological capability. Pakistan's air bases were destroyed. Some airbases are still in ICU," PM Modi said, emphasising that for the first time during Operation Sindoor, the world recognised the power of Atmanirbhar Bharat. "Terrorist bases were destroyed in Pakistan. No one can imagine that anyone can reach there. Bahawalpur, Muridke, has also been razed to the ground. Our forces destroyed the terrorist bases. Third aspect, we have proved Pakistan's nuclear threat to be false. India has proved that nuclear blackmailing will not work anymore, and neither will India bow down to this nuclear blackmailing," the PM said by calling out Islamabad's nuclear bluff. "India has shown its technical capability. It has struck Pakistan precisely on the chest. Pakistan's airbases and assets have suffered heavy damage. And to date, many of their airbases are in ICU. This is the era of technology-based war. If we had not made the preparations that we have done in the last 10 years, then we could imagine how much loss we could have suffered in this era of technology... through Operation Sindoor, for the first time, the world recognised the power of self-reliant India. Made in India drones, missiles exposed Pakistan's weapon system," he added. (ANI) The mass killing and starvation of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip has officially been labeled a genocide by two of the most respected human rights organizations based in Israel. B'Tselem and Physicians for Human Rights-Israel (PHRI) pleaded to the international community to use any and all tools to help "stop the genocide" being carried out by their home country, B'Tselem said in a press release. The human rights group concluded that Israel "is taking coordinated action to intentionally destroy Palestinian society in the Gaza Strip," in a report published Monday after examining statements made by Israeli officials, the policies used in Gaza and their outcomes. B'Tselem warned that if the Israel continues on their path and if they are not held accountable, "there is a real risk the genocide will spread beyond the Gaza Strip," based on the statistics, personal testimonies and documentation in their report. "Nothing prepares you for the realization that you are part of a society committing genocide. This is a deeply painful moment for us," B'Tselem Executive Director Yuli Novak said. "But as Israelis and Palestinians who live here and witness the reality every day, we have a duty to speak the truth as clearly as possible: Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinians." Meanwhile, PHRI concluded that Israel's assault on Gaza met the requirements to be labeled a genocide after conducting their own legal and medical analysis, citing Israel's attacks on Gaza's hospitals, blocking medical aid from entering the Strip and killing first responders and healthcare professionals. "As people who believe in the sanctity of life, we are obligated to speak the truth: this is genocide, and we must fight it," PHRI's Executive Director Dr. Guy Shalev said. "This is a clear and consistent pattern of destruction. It is our duty as medical professionals, and to our colleagues in Gaza who are risking their lives to save others under impossible conditions, to face the truth and do everything we can to protect them." Though multiple human rights groups, including a United Nations Special Committee and Amnesty International, have declared Israel's assault in Gaza a genocide, this marks the first time Israel-based organizations have spoken out against the country. Israel has defended its actions as "self defense" in response to the militant group Hamas' attack on October 7, 2023, which left about 1,200 Israelis dead. Since then, more than 59,700 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. Hundreds of Palestinians have been killed in recent weeks while trying to receive food aid in Gaza as the humanitarian situation worsens. Several children have died in Gaza from starvation as thousands more face acute malnutrition. While speaking to reporters Monday morning, President Donald Trump said that he does not believe Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's claims that there is no starvation in Gaza, but insisted that the U.S. is "giving a lot of money and a lot of food" to help. Originally published on Latin Times On the occasion of International Tiger Day, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday announced that Agniveers of the state will be given direct deployment in the Tiger Protection Force being set up in Corbett Tiger Reserve. More than 80 youths will be recruited for the Tiger Protection Force. The primary objective of this force is to strengthen the protection of tigers and their habitat. This will not only strengthen tiger conservation efforts but will also provide employment opportunities to the youth trained under the Agniveer scheme. Chief Minister Dhami said that the establishment of this force will help in achieving the goal of greater tiger conservation and will stop poaching. The main job of the Tiger Protection Force will be to prevent poaching of tigers, said the release. Trained jawans will patrol forest areas, collect intelligence and take strict action against poachers. Along with controlling wildlife crimes, this force will also control other crimes related to the forest and wildlife like timber smuggling, illegal mining and encroachment. The Chief Minister said that conservation of the natural habitat of tigers is also important. This force will help prevent deforestation and activities that harm their habitat and will also be helpful in managing human-wildlife conflict, he said, adding that many times tigers come into populated areas, leading to human-wildlife conflict. This force will be trained to handle and control such situations, so that both sides do not suffer. This force can be equipped with modern surveillance technologies, such as drones, thermal imaging and GPS tracking, which will increase their efficiency. The direct deployment of Agniveers of Uttarakhand is a unique example of the involvement of the Indian Army (or Army-trained personnel) in tiger conservation. Agniveers have undergone rigorous discipline and training by the Indian Army. This training makes them physically fit, mentally strong and ready to face any challenge. These qualities will make them highly effective in forest patrolling and dealing with wildlife crimes. The Chief Minister said that Army personnel are adept at strategic planning and quick decision-making. Agniveers often have knowledge of the use of modern weapons and communication systems, which will enable them to use advanced technologies for wildlife conservation. Agniveers are imbued with the spirit of national service. Wildlife conservation is also a form of national service, and this feeling will make them more dedicated to their duty. He said that giving priority to the local youth of Uttarakhand will give them a better understanding of the geography, weather and local challenges of the area, making their work more effective. The Chief Minister said that the Corbett Tiger Reserve, which is one of the most important habitats of tigers in India, will now get the protection of a highly trained and dedicated force. This is expected to reduce incidents of poaching. The recruitment of Agniveers will also involve the local community in conservation efforts, creating a positive atmosphere. He said that if this model is successful, it can also be replicated in other tiger reserves and protected areas in the country, thereby promoting tiger conservation at the national level. This announcement by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami shows a strong commitment towards tiger conservation. This step will prove to be an important milestone for the future of tigers in Corbett Tiger Reserve and Uttarakhand. The declaration to celebrate this day was made on July 29, 2010, in St. Petersburg, aiming to unite all tiger range countries in a concerted effort to enhance tiger conservation and management worldwide. This day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by these magnificent creatures and the efforts being made to safeguard their future. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday took a dig at the opposition, accusing it of finding new "excuses" to oppose army operations, including the Operation Sindoor, which was launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The Prime Minister, while speaking during the Operation Sindoor discussion in the Lok Sabha, said that the entire country is "laughing" at the opposition. PM Modi specifically targeted the Congress and said that opposing the armed forces has been the "old attitude" of the Congress party. "Terrorists are crying, their masterminds are crying and seeing them cry, some people are crying here too. They tried to play a game during the surgical strike; it didn't work. During the airstrike, they tried playing another game. That didn't work either. When Operation Sindoor took place, they adopted a new tactic--"Why did you stop?"...Waah re bayan bahaduron! You need one or the other excuse to oppose. So, not just me but the entire country is laughing at you," the Prime Minister said. "I have said this earlier too, that India is a land of 'Buddha,' not yuddha (war). We want prosperity and peace," PM Modi said, emphasising that the path to prosperity and peace passes through strength. Further sharpening his attack on Congress over P Chidambaram's remarks, the Prime Minister said that they dare to ask for proof that the Pahalgam attackers were from Pakistan. "Opposing the armed forces, negativity for the armed forces has been the old attitude of Congress... Pull up all of Pakistan's statements and the statements of those who are opposing us here; they are exactly the same with a full stop and comma... The country is surprised that Congress has given a clean chit to Pakistan. They dare to ask for proof that the Pahalgam attackers were from Pakistan," he added. Chidambaram questioned the government's narrative on the attack, suggesting that the terrorists could be "homegrown" and asking for evidence to prove they came from Pakistan. He also criticised the government for not disclosing details about Operation Sindoor. Earlier in the day, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi criticised the Government's handling of 'Operation Sindoor' and, referring to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's statement in Parliament, alleged that India showed Pakistan its limits and that it did not have the "political will" to fight. Addressing the Lower House during a debate on Operation Sindoor, the Congress MP said, "Yesterday I watched Rajnath Singh's speech. I listen quite carefully when people speak. He said that Operation Sindoor began at 1.05 in the morning. He said that Operation Sindoor lasted 22 minutes. Then he said the most shocking thing--at 1.35, we had called Pakistan and told them that we hit non-military targets and we do not want escalation... Maybe he does not understand what he revealed. The DGMO of India was told by the government of India to ask for a ceasefire at 1.35 at night itself on the night of Operation Sindoor..." "You told the Pakistanis exactly what you would do. You told them we would not hit military targets, you told them we do not want escalation... It means you have directly told Pakistan that you do not have the political will to fight. This is said by the Defence Minister. It means the government of India informed the Pakistani government that we have no political will; we don't want to fight. Surrender, immediate surrender in 30 minutes," the Congress MP added. (ANI) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel called for achieving 100% beneficiary coverage in quality schemes and initiatives, so that such recognition ceremonies become a norm in every district and taluka of the state. He was addressing the 'Sampurnata Abhiyan Samman Samaroh' held to honour excellence in holistic development across Aspirational Districts and Talukas (Blocks). In this context, he noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary leadership, sectors from semiconductors to sanitation are prioritised. Technology-driven systems have raised public expectations, and it is our duty to meet them and ensure continued quality services, he stated while inspiring the heads of district administrations and district development officers, said the release. The Chief Minister honoured the districts and talukas of the state that achieved excellence during the nationwide Samarpan Abhiyan held from July to September 2024 by NITI Aayog with awards and certificates at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. Speaker of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly Shankar Chaudhary, Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi, Additional Secretary of NITI Aayog Rohit Kumar, and Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister M.K. Das were present on the occasion. The Chief Minister and the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly conferred a total of 13 medals: Gold to districts that achieved saturation in all six indicators determined by NITI Aayog, Silver to districts that achieved saturation in five, and Bronze to those that achieved excellence in four indicators, which were presented to the then district collectors of the respective districts. The Chief Minister congratulated and presented certificates of appreciation to those who helped Gujarat achieve "completeness" within the set timeframe for various development targets under the 'Aspirational Block Program'. This achievement fulfills Prime Minister Narendra Modi's strong commitment to ensuring that "the last citizen becomes an active participant in the nation's development journey. He stated that the energy of young officers and their commitment to public welfare will drive the vision of Viksit Gujarat for Viksit Bharat, with every task delivered to the highest standards. CM mentioned that to accelerate the pace towards Viksit Gujarat, the Gujarat State Institution for Transformation (GRIT) has been established. GRIT provides comprehensive monitoring and direction on which sectors need further momentum, what work has been completed, and what remains to be done. "We need to strengthen systems and ensure they reach the grassroots, bringing even the most marginalised into the mainstream. Much work has already been done toward this, and now we must intensify it further," the Chief Minister stated. He added that the state has robust financial management, and there is no shortage of funds for planning or implementing schemes. Therefore, he expects that all district administrative heads will ensure quality work and that 100 percent of the scheme benefits reach the needy beneficiaries. Chief Minister also expressed confidence that Gujarat is ready to take the lead in building Vikist Bharat @2047. The Central Government's NITI Aayog launched the 'Aspirational District Program' in 2018 with the aim of improving the standard of living of citizens in the remotest parts of the country, ensuring holistic development in socially and economically challenging districts by providing infrastructural facilities and bringing about rapid socio-economic transformation. Dahod and Narmada districts of Gujarat have been included in this program. Taking into account the overall positive outcomes of the Aspirational District Program across India, and with the determination to expand it further to the block level inspired by the Prime Minister, the 'Aspirational Block Program' was launched in 2023. With the aim of accelerating the achievement of completeness in both these programs, NITI Aayog launched the "Samarpan Abhiyan" from 4 July 2024 to 30 September 2024. Under this campaign, six indicators were identified for the first quarter: percentage of registered pregnant women receiving antenatal care (ANC), percentage of pregnant women regularly receiving supplementary nutrition under the ICDS program, percentage of Soil Health Cards generated against the soil sample collection target, percentage of the target population screened for diabetes in the block, percentage of the target population screened for hypertension in the block, and percentage of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) receiving revolving funds out of the total SHGs in the block. Accordingly, under the Aspirational District Program, Dahod district achieved completeness in all six indicators, while Narmada district achieved completeness in five indicators. Under the Aspirational Block Programme, seven talukas -- Lakhpat, Rapar, Kukarmunda, Nijhar, Tharad, Ghoghamba, and Sayla -- achieved 100% performance across all six key indicators and were conferred the Gold Award. Garbada, Nandod, and Santalpur received the Silver Award for excellence in five indicators, while Subir in Dang district was honoured with the Bronze Award for meeting four indicators. On this occasion, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel virtually inaugurated 'Aakansha Haat' in 10 districts. These haat will showcase unique local products, giving a boost to the 'Vocal for Local' initiative. Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Shankar Chaudhary, extended congratulations to all and stated that the Chief Minister has consistently emphasised inclusive development, particularly focusing on aspirational districts and talukas that may have previously been overlooked in accessing the benefits of progress. He added that, along with the state government, NITI Aayog has also given special attention to the development of such regions. As a result, these districts and talukas in Gujarat are now meeting the benchmarks set by NITI Aayog. On this occasion, NITI Aayog's Additional Secretary Rohit Kumar stated that, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a novel approach was adopted to develop 112 districts under the "Aspirational Districts Programme" and 500 talukas under the "Aspirational Blocks Programme." Under this initiative, the selected districts and talukas in Gujarat have worked in mission mode based on six key development indicators defined by NITI Aayog. Secretary (Planning) Ms. Ardra Agrawal delivered the welcome address, while GSIDS Director Leena Kakkad proposed the vote of thanks. (ANI) The event was attended by Gandhinagar Mayor Meeraben Patel, Gandhinagar District Panchayat President Shilpa Patel, MLA Rita Patel, collectors and officials from award-winning districts, senior government officials, and other dignitaries. (ANI) Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Tuesday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that he tried to take all the credit for the Operation Sindoor during his speech in the Lok Sabha. Speaking to the media, Gogoi alleged that PM Modi didn't take the responsibility of the Pahalgam terror attack and also didn't refute US President Donald Trump's constant claims of brokering peace between India and Pakistan. "In his 2-hour speech, PM Modi attempted to take all the credit for Operation Sindoor. At the beginning of his speech, he said that the people of the country supported him. Wrong. People completely supported the government and the Indian armed forces. It is sad that PM Modi attempted to take credit for Operation Sindoor, but he skipped taking responsibility for Pahalgam...Trump said 28-29 times (on ceasefire), but he (PM Modi) did not refute it even once. BJP has this old habit of tarnishing the image of Congress and Pandit Nehru", he said. Earlier today, while speaking in the Lok Sabha during Operation Sindoor discussion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the India Armed Forces avenged the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in 22 minutes with its Operation Sindoor by destroying terror launch pads in "different corners of Pakistan." The Prime Minister described the ongoing Parliament session as a "Vijay Utsav" (victory celebration), celebrating India's military strength and national unity after the success of the armed forces. He said that the Indian armed forces were given a free hand to take their own decisions when the conflict with Pakistan escalated in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor on May 7. "Right after the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan had this idea that India would indeed take major action and started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of 6-7 May, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything. Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks ... We destroyed terrorist camps in different corners of Pakistan," the Prime Minister said. "I had said that this is a session of India's 'Vijay Utsav' ... When I am speaking of 'Vijayotsav,' I would like to say - ye 'Vijay Utsav' aatanki headquarters ko mitti mein milane ka hai." When I say "Vijay Utsav, it is about India's brave and valiant defence forces. When I say Vijay Ustav, it is about the unity of 140 crore Indians," the PM stated in the Lower House of the Parliament. The Prime Minister thanked the countrymen for their support and blessing during Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives. "I stand here to present India's side before this House. Those who don't see India's side, I stand here to show them a mirror. During Operation Sindoor, the way people supported me and blessed me, I thank them," PM Modi emphasised. The Prime Minister also noted that the Pahalgam terror attack was a well-planned attempt to spread riots in India. "On 22 April, the way terrorists killed tourists was by asking their religion. This was a well-planned attack to push India into violence. This was a plan to spread riots in India. I want to thank the countrymen; the country unitedly failed that conspiracy," PM Modi said. "I had said that this is our resolve that we will destroy the terrorists, and their leaders. They will get punished beyond their imagination. We have full faith in their Armed Forces' capability. The Armed Forces were given a free hand. They were told to decide the when, where and how... We are proud that terrorists were punished, and it was such a punishment that the terrorist masterminds have sleepless nights even to this day," he added.(ANI) BJP leader and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar on Tuesday slammed the Congress for "accepting the partition", which is a "black spot" in the nation's history. Majumdar, speaking to ANI outside the parliament, said that Congress was "solely responsible" for the division of the country. "It is a historical fact that during the independence procedure, Congress accepted the partition, as a result of which Pakistan was created, so Congress is solely responsible for it. It is a black spot in the history of our country... Many mistakes were made by Congress," he said. Earlier in the day, Amit Shah criticised Congress amid the ongoing debate in Lok Sabha on Operation Sindoor and said Jawaharlal Nehru was responsible for India not a member of the UN Security Council. "Today, China is in the UN Security Council, and India is not. Modi is trying his best to get India to become a part of the UN Security Council. Jawaharlal Nehru's stand is responsible for this. When our jawans were facing Chinese soldiers in Doklam, Rahul Gandhi was holding a meeting with the Chinese ambassador. This love for China has been passed down three generations from Jawaharlal Nehru, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi," Shah said. Shah, in his address, also confirmed that three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack were eliminated by the security forces during the recent Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir. "In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," Shah said while addressing the lower house. "Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families by asking their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones," he added. The Home Minister also informed Lok Sabha that the Lashkar-e-Taiba top commander Suleman, involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, was among the three terrorists killed by security forces. "... In Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal, Afghan and Jibran--these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police... Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist... All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated...," Shah said. (ANI) Ladakh Lieutenant General (LG) Kavinder Gupta on Tuesday, applauding Operation Mahadev, stated that it was the result of the government's zero tolerance policy that the accused in the deadly Pahalgam attack had been shot dead. "Stone pelting has ended. Lakhs of people who would join the funerals of terrorists have come to an end. It is a result of the central government's zero-tolerance policy that the Pahalgam accused have been shot dead..." Gupta told ANI. Earlier in the day, Amit Shah, in his address, confirmed that three terrorists involved in the killing of civilians had been eliminated by the security forces during Operation Mahadev. "In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," Shah said while addressing the lower house. "Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families for asking about their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones," he added. The Home Minister also informed Lok Sabha that the Lashkar-e-Taiba top commander Suleman, involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, was among the three terrorists killed by security forces during the recent Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir. "... In Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal, Afghan and Jibran--these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police... Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist... All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated...," Shah said during the second debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. Shah was also praised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his speech on both Operation Sindoor and Mahadev. In a post on X, PM Modi said that security operations played a vital role in eliminating "cowardly terrorists" in India. "In this remarkable speech in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah Ji gives important details about Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which have played a vital role in eliminating cowardly terrorists. His address also focuses on our Government's efforts towards keeping our nation secure," said PM Modi. (ANI) Rajesh Narwal, father of Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, one of the victims of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, applauded the government's Operation Mahadev under which three accused of the attack were killed, further asserting that the government would not stop till the time terrorism ends. "Home Minister Amit Shah informed the House that the three terrorists killed in the encounter yesterday were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack. They were given the punishment they deserved... The government will not stop till the time terrorism ends..." Narwal spoke to the media. Meanwhile, Ladakh Lieutenant General (LG) Kavinder Gupta applauded Operation Mahadev and stated that it was the result of the government's non-zero tolerance policy that the accused in the deadly Pahalgam attack had been shot dead. "Stone pelting has ended. Lakhs of people who would join the funerals of terrorists have come to an end. It is a result of the central government's zero-tolerance policy that the Pahalgam accused have been shot dead..." Gupta told ANI. Earlier in the day, Amit Shah, in his address, confirmed that three terrorists involved in the killing of civilians had been eliminated by the security forces during Operation Mahadev. "In a joint Operation Mahadev, the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have neutralised three terrorists who were involved in the Pahalgam terror attack," Shah said while addressing the lower house. "Innocent civilians were killed in front of their families for asking about their religion. I condemn this barbaric act. I express my sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones," he added. The Home Minister also informed Lok Sabha that the Lashkar-e-Taiba top commander Suleman, involved in the Pahalgam terror attack, was among the three terrorists killed by security forces during the recent Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir. "... In Operation Mahadev, Suleman alias Faizal, Afghan and Jibran--these three terrorists were killed in a joint operation of the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police... Suleman was an A-category commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Afghan was an A-category Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. And Jibran was also an A-grade terrorist... All three terrorists who killed our citizens in the Baisaran valley have been eliminated...," Shah said during the second debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha. Shah was also praised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his speech on both Operation Sindoor and Mahadev. In a post on X, PM Modi said that security operations played a vital role in eliminating "cowardly terrorists" in India. "In this remarkable speech in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah Ji gives important details about Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which have played a vital role in eliminating cowardly terrorists. His address also focuses on our Government's efforts towards keeping our nation secure," said PM Modi. (ANI) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel is enhancing pilgrimage sites across Gujarat as centres of spiritual experience for every devotee. Nestled in the Aravalli mountain range, Shri Ambaji Mata Temple is a revered spiritual centre that draws lakhs of devotees year-round, especially during every full moon and the Bhadarvi Poonam fair. During his tenure as Chief Minister, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made significant contributions to Ambaji's development. As Prime Minister, he launched a nationwide campaign to modernise religious centres, guided by the vision of "Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi." Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Ambaji Yatradham is set to undergo major development, as per a Gujarat CMO release. The state government has prepared a 50-year master plan for the Shri Ambaji Mata Temple complex in Danta taluka of Banaskantha district. With an estimated cost of Rs 1,632 crore, the project will be implemented in two phases. The Chief Minister is closely monitoring its execution, and Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi recently chaired a key meeting to review progress. The master plan focuses on the overall development of the Ambaji pilgrimage site, aiming to set a new benchmark by integrating key pilgrimage areas and upgrading facilities to improve the experience for devotees, the release added. It prioritises sustainability, seamless technological connectivity between the Jyot and Visha Yantra, and thematic development at key locations like Chachar Chowk and Gabbar. Gujarat Pavitra Yatradham Vikas Board, under the state government's Tourism Department, is implementing the master plan. At its core are two revered pilgrimage sites: Gabbar Parvat, believed to be the home of the heart of Goddess Sati, and the Ambaji Mata Temple, where the sacred Visha Yantra is located. A spiritual corridor will be created to offer devotees a more immersive and meaningful pilgrimage experience. In the first phase, development works worth approximately Rs 950 crore will begin soon. A major highlight is the creation of the Shakti Corridor, which will connect the Ambaji Temple, Gabbar Parvat, and Mansarovar through an integrated pathway. A grand Shakti Chowk will be linked to Gabbar Darshan Chowk via Shaktipath. Other key developments include the expansion of the temple area with themes from the mythology of Goddess Sati, a pedestrian underpass to the temple, an arrival area at Ambaji Chowk, improved roadways with footpaths, multi-level parking, Yatri Bhavan, Divya Darshan Plaza, Sati Ghat development, and a new Gabbar Arrival Plaza with a light and sound show. The second phase will focus on further development of the Gabbar Temple and its surroundings, the Ambaji Temple and Mansarovar area, and the Sati Sarovar, with a projected investment of Rs 682 crore. As part of the plan to improve pilgrim facilities and ensure a safe, smooth experience, Chachar Chowk will be expanded threefold, the release further added. The area will feature galleries, murals, and exhibition spaces inspired by mythological stories linked to Gabbar Parvat, deepening the emotional connection for devotees. Festival zones such as event plazas and garba grounds will be developed in the Sati Sarovar and Sati Ghat areas. Plans for Gabbar Parvat include coordinated development of the temple complex, parikrama path, ropeway, and improved crowd movement. Rooted in faith and guided by a long-term vision, the redevelopment of Ambaji will enrich the spiritual experience for every pilgrim. (ANI) Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not naming China in his address during the Operation Sindoor discussion and for not directly refuting US President Donald Trump's claims of brokering peace between India and Pakistan. Speaking to reporters outside the Parliament, the Lok Sabha LoP further alleged that the government has avoided addressing the role of China in the recent Indo-Pakistan conflict. "He never said it clearly that Trump was lying... In his entire speech, not once did he mention China. The whole nation knows that China helped Pakistan in every way, but the Prime Minister and Defence Minister never named China anywhere in their speeches," Rahul Gandhi said. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a dig at the opposition, accusing it of finding new "excuses" to oppose army operations, including the Operation Sindoor, which was launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The Prime Minister, while speaking during the Operation Sindoor discussion in the Lok Sabha, said that the entire country is "laughing" at the opposition. PM Modi specifically targeted the Congress and said that opposing the armed forces has been the "old attitude" of the Congress party. "Terrorists are crying, their masterminds are crying and seeing them cry, some people are crying here too. They tried to play a game during the surgical strike; it didn't work. During the airstrike, they tried playing another game. That didn't work either. When Operation Sindoor took place, they adopted a new tactic--"Why did you stop?"...Waah re bayan bahaduron! You need one or the other excuse to oppose. So, not just me but the entire country is laughing at you," the Prime Minister said. "I have said this earlier too, that India is a land of 'Buddha,' not yuddha (war). We want prosperity and peace," PM Modi said, emphasising that the path to prosperity and peace passes through strength. Sharpening his attacks on Congress over P Chidambaram's remarks, the Prime Minister said that they dare to ask for proof that the Pahalgam attackers were from Pakistan. "Opposing the armed forces, negativity for the armed forces has been the old attitude of Congress... Pull up all of Pakistan's statements and the statements of those who are opposing us here; they are exactly the same with a full stop and comma... The country is surprised that Congress has given a clean chit to Pakistan. They dare to ask for proof that the Pahalgam attackers were from Pakistan," he added. (ANI) Continuing its relentless crackdown on cross-border smuggling, the vigilant BSF troops, in joint operations, apprehended two smugglers and recovered six rogue drones carrying heroin and weapon parts in multiple incidents along the Amritsar and Tarn Taran borders. Acting on the intelligence, two smugglers, residents of Bhikhiwind, were apprehended near village Dal in Tarn Taran area with a bike, two mobile phones and pistol parts with live rounds, said the release. In multiple coordinated operations in the last few hours, BSF troops neutralized and recovered total six drones - five DJI Mavic 3 Classic and one DJI Air 3 S across villages Roranwala Khurd, Dhanoe Kalan, Bhaini Rajputana and Daoke in Amritsar. These drones carried heroin (total gross weight: approx. 1.73 kg), pistol parts and empty magazines. These apprehensions and seizures highlight BSF's resolve to safeguard the border and curb Pakistan-backed smuggling via aerial routes. Earlier on Monday, the Border Security Force seized four drones with a pistol and heroin in separate incidents at Amritsar and Tarn Taran border in Punjab, as per an official statement. "During the intervening night of July 27-28, BSF troops on duty successfully neutralised and recovered 3 DJI Mavic, 3 Classic drones along with 1 pistol and 2 heroin packets (Gross Weight- 1.150 Kgs) from the area adjacent to the village of Pulmoran Amritsar. One packet was found attached to each drone," the press release said. In a joint search operation based on specific input, yesterday, the BSF and Punjab Police jointly recovered 1 DJI AIR 3 drone from a farming field adjacent to the village of Dal, Tarn Taran. Meanwhile, in a significant breakthrough, Amritsar Rural Police, in collaboration with central agencies, recovered a large consignment of weapons from five people allegedly involved in a trans-border smuggling network. Speaking to ANI, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Amritsar Rural, Maninder Singh, said that five people have been arrested in the case, and the consignment was sent by an individual named Rana, linked to an ISI-sponsored terrorist element." Amritsar Rural Police, in collaboration with central agencies, conducted an operation and arrested five individuals. From them, one AK series assault rifle, 90 live rounds, two magazines, two Glock pistols, four Glock magazines, and Rs 7.5 lakh in drug money were recovered... The five arrested, Joban, Gora, Jaspreet, Sunny, and Shenshan, were stopped in a car in Kaler village, and arms were recovered from them. They revealed in a preliminary investigation that Nav Pandori, a close associate of gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, had ordered this consignment," SSP Singh told ANI. "This consignment was sent by an individual named Rana, linked to ISI-sponsored terrorist elements. We suspect that Rana has connections with the BKI (Babbar Khalsa International) terrorist elements. Rana sent the consignment to them via drone," he added. (ANI) President Donald Trump has issued a new, shorter ultimatum for Russian President Vladimir Putin to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine, with Russia now facing pressure to do so in a matter of days. Trump said he was "very disappointed" in Putin for continuing strikes against Ukraine as the 3-year long war between the countries rages on. While earlier this month Trump had given Putin 50 days to reach a ceasefire, he now warned he was giving the country "10 or 12 days" to reach a deal or face consequences, as reported by the Daily Mail. "I'm going to make a new deadline of about 10 or 12 days from today. There's no reason in waiting," he told reporters. "I want to be generous, but we just don't see any progress being made." Trump: It would be sanctions and maybe secondary tariffs. I dont want to do that to Russia. I love the Russian people but it continues to go on pic.twitter.com/gk43zcFqkZ Acyn (@Acyn) July 28, 2025 If Russia fails to reach a ceasefire with Ukraine by Trump's deadline, the president said sanctions and tariffs of up to 100% could be implemented on the country and its trading partners, Politico reported. "You have bodies lying all over the street. And I say that's not the way to do it. So we'll see what happens with that. I'm very disappointed. I'm disappointed in President Putin," Trump said. Last week, several Ukrainians were killed and dozens were injured after Russian strikes hit residential neighborhoods. Russia and Ukraine met for peace talks that same week, but failed to reach an agreement. During his 2024 campaign, Trump promised to end the Russia-Ukraine war in a matter of days, however negotiations have proven to be difficult, despite calls with Putin. "I never really thought this would happen. I thought we'd be able to negotiate something, and maybe that will still happen but it's very late down in the process. So I'm disappointed," Trump said, adding that Russia is "going through a lot economically." Originally published on Latin Times Congress leader KC Venugopal on Tuesday targeted Union Home Minister Amit Shah over his speech in Lok Sabha during discussion on Operation Sindoor and said he "did not utter a single word on 'security failure". Participating in the discussion, Venugopal said it is the government's responsibility to ensure the security of tourists coming to the Kashmir Valley. Venugopal said that, apart from the security failure, the Home Minister spoke on everything. "Just like our colleagues, I also salute the brave soldiers of our country, those who are part of OperationSindoor. But I totally wondered, while hearing the speech of Home Minister Amit Shah. He talked about a lot of things. My colleague Gaurav Gogoi started with a security failure issue. Everybody from this side repeated the same argument but our Home Minister didn't take a single word of security failure. Other than security failure, he spoke on everything," Venugopal said. Venugopal said that terrorists killed the tourists but the government failed to provide security. "If you are calling tourists to visit Kashmir, is it not your primary duty to make available security for them?...We agree that terrorists are responsible for this incident (Pahalgam). Pakistan is behind this. But who gave the valuable 26 people's lives to the terrorists? Your ignorance," he added. In his speech Amit Shah said that through Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi worked to finish off the masters of the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack and yesterday Army and CRPF also killed three terrorists involved in Pahalgam killings. The Home Minister said that Operation Mahadev is a very big joint success of our country's Army, CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir Police, on which 140 crore people of the country are proud. He said that after the terrorist attack, he went to Pahalgam and met the families of the deceased there. Amit Shah said that the day Lashkar and its outfit TRF took responsibility for the Pahalgam attack, we had decided that NIA will investigate this attack. He said that NIA has expertise as a globally recognized agency in scientifically investigating terrorist cases and bringing the culprits to justice and NIA's conviction rate is more than 96 per cent. Amit Shah said that the investigation of the Pahalgam attack was immediately handed over to NIA and the Army, BSF, CRPF and Jammu Kashmir Police made full arrangements to ensure that these terrorists could not leave the country and flee to Pakistan. He told the House that at the beginning of the investigation of the attack, discussions were held with the families of the deceased, a total of 1055 people including tourists, mule owners, pony owners, photographers, employees and shop workers were interrogated for more than 3000 hours and all this was recorded on video. Shah informed the House that based on the information received from interrogation, sketches of the terrorists were made and Bashir and Parvez were identified who had given shelter to the terrorists the day after the Pahalgam attack. He said that Bashir and Parvez were arrested and they revealed that on the night of April 21, 2025, at 8 pm, three terrorists had come to them and they had two AK-47s and one M4 carbine. Amit Shah informed the House that the mother of Bashir and Parvez has also identified the three killed terrorists, and this has been confirmed by FSL as well. He said that these three were the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack, and two AK-47 and one M9 carbine recovered from them were used in this attack. (ANI) Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in Lok Sabha during the Operation Sindoor debate, saying that no one can defeat the BJP in words. Speaking to the media, Yadav, signalling to China, claimed that the BJP cannot see the bigger threat standing behind Pakistan, which is snatching away India's markets and encroaching on its borders. "BJP ko baaton mein koi nahi hara sakta. If the BJP doesn't see a threat standing behind Pakistan, then who can show them that? A country that is snatching away our market, which is encroaching on our borders...BJP should at least tell us if India's area has increased or decreased between 2014 and today. All of us want our borders to be peaceful and secure," the Samajwadi Party Chief said. Akhilesh Yadav noted that India has become a trading country and targeted the government over its claims of being self-reliant. "But they are not concerned about the country that poses the biggest threat...We talk of aatmanirbhar, that the country should be self-reliant, that the manufacturing sector should expand, but we have become a trader country," he said. Responding to PM Modi's "thok do" remark, Akhilesh Yadav stressed that this policy will work in Uttar Pradesh but not in the Parliament. "Thok do' policy was in effect in Uttar Pradesh. This is not the policy of the Lok Sabha. What should I understand from this? What happens in UP will happen now...If terrorists have been killed, there has been an Intelligence failure once again. Will the Govt tell us how are terrorists coming to India again and again? Who will answer that? Who will take responsibility for that?... Did the Rafale take off or not?...", Akhilesh Yadav said. Meanwhile, reacting to PM Modi's statement that no world leader stopped India from continuing its operation against Pakistan, Congress MP K Suresh termed it a wrong remark and said that the opposition doesn't believe it. "We do not believe that. His statement is absolutely wrong. We are not believing that. The entire Opposition is not believing that statement. The statement is not correct," K Suresh told ANI. Congress MP KC Venugopal launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his speech in Lok Sabha during the Operation Sindoor discussion, questioning his silence on US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of brokering peace between India and Pakistan. The Congress leader asked why PM Modi is afraid to discuss US President Donald Trump. "We are asking very clearly whether Trump's claim is bogus or not, whether he is telling truth or not. No answer...Why is he scared of talking about Trump? He has to say that what Trump is saying is not the truth...When genuine questions are asked by the Opposition, he hides behind Pakistan story. People know about that. We are the people fighting against Pakistan, we are for India...", Venugopal told ANI. Earlier today, while speaking in the Lok Sabha during Operation Sindoor discussion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the India Armed Forces avenged the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in 22 minutes with its Operation Sindoor by destroying terror launch pads in "different corners of Pakistan." The Prime Minister described the ongoing Parliament session as a "Vijay Utsav" (victory celebration), celebrating India's military strength and national unity after the success of the armed forces. He said that the Indian armed forces were given a free hand to take their own decisions when the conflict with Pakistan escalated in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor on May 7. "Right after the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan had this idea that India would indeed take major action and started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of 6-7 May, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything. Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks ... We destroyed terrorist camps in different corners of Pakistan," the Prime Minister said. (ANI) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday said that the arrest of Keralite nuns by Chhattisgarh police was on the basis of "a false complaint" filed by Bajrang Dal activists. He also termed the arrest "the latest example of the Sangh Parivar's atrocities against the Christian community." "The atrocities against nuns in Chhattisgarh show the true nature of the Sangh Parivar. It is clear beyond doubt that the nuns were arrested and imprisoned on the basis of a false complaint filed by Bajrang Dal activists," Vijayan said in a statement. "This is also the latest example of the Sangh Parivar's atrocities against the Christian community. The same people who enter Christian homes and palaces with cakes and friendly smiles are even hunting down nuns on charges of religious conversion and human trafficking," he said. The Chief Minister alleged that the Sangh Parivar fears the pluralism and coexistence of the country. "That is why the attacks against minorities continue. As soon as the news of the arrest of the Malayali nuns came to light, a letter was written to the Prime Minister, requesting him to intervene to ensure justice. However, the arrests were justified, including by the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh." He accused the Sangh Parivar of trying to continuously harm the secularism of the country by playing on hatred and divisive politics. "Encroachments on minority rights and the fundamental rights granted by the Constitution must be opposed and defeated," he said. Chhattisgarh police arrested three persons, including two Keralite nuns, at Durg railway station on charges of trafficking and forcibly converting a few tribal women. The Congress has also condemned the arrest. "The atrocities against minorities in the BJP-ruled state are increasing day by day. This is not an isolated case. In Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Manipur, every place they are haunting Christian institutions, fathers, and nuns. We wrote to HM and CM, but there is no concrete action," Congress MP, KC Venugopal, told reporters at Parliament on Tuesday. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday defended the arrest. "Three daughters from Narayanpur were promised nursing training and subsequent job placements. They were handed over to two nuns at Durg station by a person from Narayanpur, who was taking the girls to Agra. Through inducement, an attempt was being made to engage in human trafficking and conversion. This is a serious matter related to women's safety. The investigation in this case is still ongoing. The matter is under judicial review, and the law will take its course," Chhattisgarh CM wrote on 'X'. (ANI) Congress leader and former Union Minister P Chidambaram on Tuesday stated that India's war during Operation Sindoor was not just a conflict against Pakistan, but a combined threat posed by both Pakistan and China. Speaking during the debate on Operation Sindoor in the Rajya Sabha, Chidambaram stated that India was not just fighting a one-front or two-front war scenario, but a fusion of both Pakistan and China. "Deputy Chief of Army Staff has admitted to the Chinese aircraft and missiles being deployed by Pakistan during the Operation Sindoor. If that is true, then the conclusion is that Pakistan has been testing Chinese missiles, and India is not fighting a one-front or two-front war scenario, but a fused front war of China and Pakistan together," Chidambaram said. "Pakistan and China are no longer different fronts, but a fused front. The pilots were Pakistanis, but the aircraft were Chinese. The finger was of Pakistani military leaders but missiles were Chinese. The operator was Pakistani, but the drones were from Turkey. Where is your plan to fight not a one-front war, not a two-front war, but a fused front war of India fighting Pakistan and China fused together?" the Congress leader asked. Speaking on the government's reluctant behaviour to hold a special session of the Parliament on the Operation Sindoor, Chidambaram stated that it would take time to tell whether the operation was "decisive". "We have been demanding a special session of the Parliament to discuss the Operation Sindoor, but for their own reasons, the government kept denying it. Anywhere around the world, every time there is a war, there is a session in the Parliament to discuss various aspects of the war. So if you ask me, I would call the Operation Sindoor successful, but only time will tell if it was decisive or not..." Chidambaram further stated. Alleging India's intelligence failure, the Congress MP also questioned why the country agreed to a ceasefire when the military leadership had admitted to "tactical mistakes." "I agree that India's leadership during the Operation Sindoor was exemplary, but our military personnel have admitted to tactical mistakes and losses. I call the CDS candid for admitting to their losses. I also have questions on why we agreed to a ceasefire," he added. Highlighting the after-effects of Operation Sindoor, Chidambaram questioned why delegations were sent to all countries, excluding our immediate neighbours. "Post Operation Sindoor, we sent our delegations to several countries, but not to our immediate neighbours. My questions revolve around why. Have we given up on our immediate neighbours? My next question is, have any of the countries we sent delegations to condemn, name and shame Pakistan? Not to what I know," he said. "On May 25, the IMF approved funds to Pakistan, and India abstained from voting on the proposal. Why? Who supported us? While everyone voted for and on the proposal, we were the only one who abstained it....what makes things worse for us is that Pakistan is being elected for several higher positions despite being the one to initiate the attack on us...." he added. P Chidambaram further mocked the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement on "abh ki baar Trump sarkaar" (this time Trump's government) made five years ago, questioning why there had been no protests by the Indian government on the ceasefire announcement. "I am sure PM Modi is going to regret his statements on abh ki baar Trump ki sarkaar. Why has the Indian government not protested on the statements made by Trump on the ceasefire between India and Pakistan, along with the other decisions Trump has made..." Chidambaram stated. The veteran Congress leader further appealed to the government to show "exemplary leadership", be candid and take the country forward with smart decisions. "I appeal to the government to show exemplary leadership, be candid and take the country forward with smart decisions...." he concluded. (ANI) To address the growing employability gap among graduates in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, the Karnataka government will launch a structured, assessment-led model to evaluate and develop job readiness among youth. Addressing a press conference at the Deputy Commissioner's office in Kalaburagi on Tuesday, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and Kalaburagi district In-charge Priyank Kharge said the first phase of this initiative under the Nipuna Karnataka, our flagship reskilling and upskilling programme, will be held in Kalaburagi on August 9 and 10, targeting 2,500 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) students. This is the first phase of what will become a state-wide rollout. The model will be adapted and implemented across other districts in the coming months, making Karnataka the first state to launch such an integrated and localised employability assessment programme for STEM graduates, the minister said. Unlike conventional skilling programmes, this model starts with a baseline diagnostic to evaluate each candidate's aptitude, communication, digital literacy and behavioural readiness. The 90-minute online assessment is being conducted by Unstop, an engagement and hiring platform that works with over 25 million students across India. Each student will receive a personalised skill-gap report and an Individual Development Plan (IDP) to guide further training and placement efforts. The objective is to move from a one-size-fits-all approach to a data-driven, individual-centric model that makes students more employable before they are routed into skilling tracks, said the Minister. Registrations open on July 29 and can be done via scanning the QR code or visiting the URL: https://unstop.com/o/xvCVUWP/?ref=KalaburgiAssessment. The deadline for registration is August 7. Candidates will be allotted slots on a first-come, first-served basis, with preference given to STEM graduates who had registered for the Kalaburagi Udyoga Mela held in April this year, followed by other final-year and recent pass-outs with a STEM background. Assessment hall tickets will be issued on August 7 and 8 via SMS and email to registered candidates. The assessment will be conducted on August 9 and 10 at Shetty Institute of Technology, Kalaburagi. There will be four slots per day, each lasting 90 minutes: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM. A recent study during the Kalaburagi Udyoga Mela showed that 70% of students scored below 50% in aptitude and 63% in communication. This pilot aims to address those gaps early and systematically. This initiative not only improves outcomes for students but also equips employers with job-ready candidates and helps educational institutions align training with real industry demands. Above all, it supports holistic talent development and strengthens the job-readiness pipeline in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, said the minister. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Kangana Ranaut on Tuesday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address on Operation Sindoor in Lok Sabha, calling it "dhamakedaar." "PM Narendra Modi has said all that he had to and he has given a 'dhamakedaar' speech," the Lok Sabha MP from Mandi told ANI outside parliament. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the Operation Sindoor discussion, PM Modi said that the Indian Armed Forces avenged the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in 22 minutes with its Operation Sindoor by destroying terror launch pads in "different corners of Pakistan." The Prime Minister described the ongoing Parliament session as a "Vijay Utsav" (victory celebration), celebrating India's military strength and national unity after the success of the armed forces. He said that the Indian armed forces were given a free hand to take their own decisions when the conflict with Pakistan escalated in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor on May 7. "Right after the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan had this idea that India would indeed take major action and started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of 6-7 May, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything. Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks ... We destroyed terrorist camps in different corners of Pakistan," the Prime Minister said. "I had said that this is a session of India's 'Vijay Utsav' ... When I am speaking of 'Vijayotsav,' I would like to say - ye 'Vijay Utsav' aatanki headquarters ko mitti mein milane ka hai." When I say "Vijay Utsav, it is about India's brave and valiant defence forces. When I say Vijay Ustav, it is about the unity of 140 crore Indians," the PM stated in the Lower House of the Parliament. The Prime Minister thanked the countrymen for their support and blessing during Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives. "I stand here to present India's side before this House. Those who don't see India's side, I stand here to show them a mirror. During Operation Sindoor, the way people supported me and blessed me, I thank them," PM Modi emphasised. The Prime Minister also noted that the Pahalgam terror attack was well-planned to spread riots in India. "On 22 April, the way terrorists killed tourists was by asking their religion. This was a well-planned attack to push India into violence. This was a plan to spread riots in India. I want to thank the countrymen; the country unitedly failed that conspiracy," PM Modi added. (ANI) Congress MP Karti Chidambaram on Tuesday, reacting to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in the Lok Sabha, stated that he still had not "categorically repudiated" US President Donald Trump's assertions of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Speaking to ANI, Chidambaram emphasised that it would have been better if the government had categorically stated that Trump had no role whatsoever. He further stated that Congress had nowhere asked for proof of Pakistan's involvement in the war, but only wanted to know the origin of the terrorists, if they were homegrown or had come across the border. "It was a 22-minute war, but it was a 2-hour 22-minute speech. He has not categorically repudiated President Trump's assertions. I wish the government had categorically stated that President Trump had no role in it whatsoever. That would end the matter... We just wanted to know if they were home-grown terrorists or had they come from across the border. Both these classes of terrorists have the support of Pakistan..." the Congress MP said. He further stated that the government must address their accountability for Operation Sindoor, including their shortcomings and lessons learned. "We all know there were shortcomings on the Operation Sindoor... the government must speak on their accountability and also mention what their shortcomings were. We are happy that they organised a session but they also need to talk about their learnings..." he further added. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Akhilesh Yadav criticised PM Modi's speech and said that no one could defeat the BJP in words. Speaking to the media, Yadav, signalling to China, claimed that the BJP cannot see the bigger threat standing behind Pakistan, which is snatching away India's markets and encroaching on its borders. "BJP ko baaton mein koi nahi hara sakta. If the BJP doesn't see a threat standing behind Pakistan, then who can show them that? A country that is snatching away our market, which is encroaching on our borders...BJP should at least tell us if India's area has increased or decreased between 2014 and today. All of us want our borders to be peaceful and secure," the Samajwadi Party Chief said. Akhilesh Yadav noted that India has become a trading country and targeted the government over its claims of being self-reliant. "But they are not concerned about the country that poses the biggest threat...We talk of aatmanirbhar, that the country should be self-reliant, that the manufacturing sector should expand, but we have become a trader country," he said. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party MP Jagdambika Pal on Tuesday slammed Congress and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi, accusing them of misleading the entire country, asserting that Prime Minister Modi has clearly said that no leader in the world "compelled India for a ceasefire". "Congress party and Rahul Gandhi were misleading the entire country...Today, PM has said that no leader in the world compelled us for a ceasefire...He also noted that even in the time to come, if Pakistan doesn't mend its ways and keep nurturing the nursery of terrorism, they will be taught a lesson just like this...," Jagdambika Pal told ANI "He (PM) has clearly stated that no leader in the world forced us (for a ceasefire)..." the BJP MP added. Meanwhile, another BJP MP, Ravi Kishan, lauded PM Narendra Modi's Lok Sabha speech, stating that he has said what the opposition wanted to hear from him. Kishan said that the opposition was misleading the country; however, the truth came out. "This is a big truth. PM Modi has said today what the Opposition wanted to hear. The opposition was misleading. Truth has come out today...", he said. Earlier today, while speaking in the Lok Sabha during Operation Sindoor discussion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised that no world leader told India to stop its operation. "No leader in the world told India to stop its operation. On the night of 9th May, the Vice President of America tried to talk to me. He tried for an hour, but I was in a meeting with my army, so I could not pick up his call. Later, I called him back. The Vice President of America told me on the phone that Pakistan is going to launch a big attack. My answer was that if Pakistan has this intention, it will cost them a lot. If Pakistan attacks, we will respond by launching a big attack. This was my answer...," PM Modi said. The Prime Minister described the ongoing Parliament session as a "Vijay Utsav" (victory celebration), celebrating India's military strength and national unity after the success of the armed forces. He said that the Indian armed forces were given a free hand to take their own decisions when the conflict with Pakistan escalated in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor on May 7. "Right after the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan had this idea that India would indeed take major action and started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of 6-7 May, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything. Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks ... We destroyed terrorist camps in different corners of Pakistan," the Prime Minister said. "I had said that this is a session of India's 'Vijay Utsav' ... When I am speaking of 'Vijayotsav,' I would like to say - ye 'Vijay Utsav' aatanki headquarters ko mitti mein milane ka hai." When I say "Vijay Utsav, it is about India's brave and valiant defence forces. When I say Vijay Ustav, it is about the unity of 140 crore Indians," the PM stated in the Lower House of the Parliament. (ANI) Central government has implemented the Central Sector Scheme for the promotion of Information Education and Communication (IEC) in Ayush to create awareness regarding Ayush Systems of Medicine which aims to reach out to all sections of the population across the country, and provides assistance for organising National Arogya Fairs, Yoga Fests and Utsavs, and Ayurveda Parvs, among others. The Ayush ministry also undertakes Multi-Media and print media campaigns to create awareness about Ayush systems. Union Minister of State of the Ministry of Ayush, Prataprao Jadhav in a written reply in Rajya Sabha on Tuesday said that the government has taken several steps for the qualitative production and distribution of Ayush medicines including quality certifications scheme implemented by the Quality Council of India (QCI) for grant of Ayush mark to Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani products on the basis of third party evaluation of quality in accordance with the status of compliance to domestic and international standards. "The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 & rules made thereunder have exclusive regulatory provisions regarding manufacture for sale or for distribution of Ayurvedic, Siddha, Sowa- Rigpa, Unani, and Homoeopathy drugs. It is mandatory for the manufacturers to adhere to the prescribed requirements for licensing of manufacturing units & medicines including proof of safety & effectiveness, compliance with the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) as per Schedule T & Schedule M-I of Drugs Rules, 1945 and quality standards of drugs given in the respective pharmacopoeia," the written reply said. "Rule 160 A to J of the Drugs Rules, 1945 provides the regulatory guidelines for approval of Drug Testing Laboratories for carrying out such tests of identity, purity, quality and strength of Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani drugs as may be required under the provisions of these rules, on behalf of licensee for manufacture of Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani drugs. Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine & Homoeopathy (PCIM&H) on behalf of Ministry of Ayush lays down the Formulary specifications and Pharmacopoeial Standards for Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathic drugs, which serves as an official compendia for ascertaining the Quality Control (identity, purity and strength) of Ayush drugs, as per the Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 & rules made thereunder. Compliance to these quality standards are mandatory for Ayush drugs being manufactured in India.," it added. Jadhav further said that, the Pharmacovigilance Centres for Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathic drugs set up in different parts of the country under the Central Sector Scheme of Ministry of Ayush are mandated to report adverse drug reactions to the respective State Regulatory Authorities. "Central Sector Scheme, Ayush Oushadhi Gunavatta evam Uttpadan Samvardhan Yojana (AOGUSY) has been implemented for the year 2021-2026. One of the components of this Scheme is to strengthen and up-grade Ayush Pharmacies and Drug Testing Laboratories to achieve higher standards. An Ayush vertical has been created in Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) to strengthen regulatory measures ensuring safety and quality of Ayush drugs. Further, CDSCO issues WHO Certificate of Pharmaceutical Product (WHO-CoPP) to Ayush drugs having compliance to such standards," it added. Quality Certifications Scheme implemented by the Quality Council of India (QCI) for grant of Ayush mark to Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani products on the basis of third party evaluation of quality in accordance with the status of compliance to domestic and international standards. Further, the Government has taken several steps for widening and deepening research in Ayush medicines, including implementing the Central Sector Scheme, namely AYURGYAN Scheme, from FY 2021-22. The Scheme has three components viz. (i) Capacity Building & Continuing Medical Education (CME) in Ayush (ii) Research & Innovation in Ayush and (iii) Ayurveda Biology Integrated Health Research added under the scheme from FY 2023-24. Under the Research & Innovation in Ayush component, financial assistance is provided to the eligible Organizations/Institutions across the county as per the provision contained in the scheme guidelines to support clinical, fundamental, pharmaceutical, literary and medicinal plant research in Extra Mural mode. Government has also established Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM), Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH), Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS) and Central Council for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy (CCRYN) under the Ministry of Ayush as apex organizations for undertaking, coordinating, formulating, developing and promoting research in Ayush system on scientific lines. Core research activities comprise of Medicinal Plant Research (Medico-Ethno Botanical Survey), Pharmacognosy and in-vitro propagation techniques, Drug Standardization, Pharmacological Research, Clinical Research, Literary Research and Documentation and Tribal Health Care Research Programme. CCRAS, CCRUM, CCRH, CCRS and CCRYN are the apex organizations established under the Ministry of Ayush for undertaking, coordinating, formulating, developing and promoting research in Ayush system on scientific lines. The Councils are also engaged in awareness activities for the promotion of Ayush systems through IEC activities and through electronic and print media for common people in English, Hindi, and regional languages, which are widely distributed through National/ State level Arogya health melas, health camps, exhibitions, expos and outreach programs, the MoS said. Ministry of Ayush has also taken initiative for inclusion of 'Traditional Medicine' chapter in the International Classification of Disease (ICD-10 and 11) supporting the scientific research, Ayush Export Promotion Council (AYUSHEXCIL), WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC) and celebration of Yoga and Ayurveda day etc. worldwide. In addition, the Ministry of Ayush has also taken steps towards international promotion, development and recognition for Ayush systems of medicine like, signed 25 Country to Country MoUs for Co-operation in field of Traditional Medicine and Homoeopathy with foreign nations. Ayush also signed 15 MoUs with International Institutes for setting up of Ayush Academic Chairs in foreign nations. (ANI) To promote scientific research in Ayush systems, the Ministry of Ayush has established independent apex research Councils namely: Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS); Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM); Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH); Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS) and Central Council for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy (CCRYN). The core research activities of these Councils are in the areas of Clinical Research, Medicinal Plant Research (Medico-ethno botanical Survey, Pharmacognosy and Cultivation), Drug Standardisation, Pharmacological Research and Literary Research & Documentation Programme. Collaborative studies are also conducted with various universities, hospitals and institutes. The extension activities comprise Health care services through Out-Patient Departments (OPDs) and In-Patient Departments (IPDs), Special clinics for Geriatric Health care and outreach activities - Tribal Health Care Research Programme (THCRP), Swasthya Rakshan Programme, Ayurveda Mobile Health Care Programme under Scheduled Castes Sub Plan (SCSP). Ministry of Ayush has implemented the Central Sector Scheme, namely, "AYURGYAN" Scheme. Under the scheme, financial assistance is provided to Medical, scientific and Research & Development institutions, university/ institutional departments in the Government & Private Sector for encouraging research, innovation and development in priority areas of Ayush. CCRUM has taken various steps to integrate Unani with evidence-based medical practices. The Council has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) with different academic and scientific organizations like All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research (NIPER), & Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, Anna University, Chennai, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), and Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Srinagar etc. CCRS is running Integrated Siddha OPD for cancer at All India Institute of Ayurveda campus, New Delhi and Siddha Clinical Research Unit, Safdarjung, New Delhi, for aiding the Palliative care of cancer patients through Siddha system. CCRH is working towards integration of Homoeopathy with mainstream healthcare by undertaking research in collaboration and cooperation in the field of integrative medicine with AIIMS, Delhi, AIIMS, Jhajjar, Haryana and other State Government and Private Homoeopathic Medical Colleges. The Council is providing homoeopathy treatment in allopathic hospitals on various clinical conditions at several hospitals. (ANI) As Israel's war in Gaza continues, President Donald Trump seemingly compared Hamas' hostage situation with the Nazis' treatment of the Jews in World War II. Trump's remarks came after two Israel-based human rights organizations condemned the country's assault in Gaza as a genocide. The groups published reports citing Israel's bombardment of hospitals, a blockade preventing medical and food aid from entering the Gaza Strip and what one group called "coordinated action to intentionally destroy Palestinian society." While addressing reporters in Scotland, Trump insisted that the U.S. is "giving a lot of money and a lot of food" to aid the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. But he later turned the conversation toward the hostages taken by Hamas on October 7, 2023, seemingly comparing their treatment to the Nazis and Germans in WWII. The president said he questioned if Hamas soldiers ever "winked at" hostages and gave them reassurance they would be OK, or if they ever gave the hostages "some extra food" while being held in Gaza. Trump on hostages in Gaza: "You even see it with Germany, where people would be let into a house and live in an attic in secret." pic.twitter.com/Oz39V8p3ej Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 28, 2025 "You see it in the movies where somebody's a prisoner and somebody's helping. You even see it with Germany where people would be let into a house and live in an attic in secret," Trump said. Trump's comparisons came under fire online for seemingly comparing the situation to the story of Anne Frank, a Jewish child who hid in an attic in Amsterdam with her family in an attempt to avoid being captured by the Nazis. Others drew comparisons to the film "The Pianist," which shares the story of a Jewish man who was able to escape being sent to the Treblinka concentration camp thanks to the help of a police friend. Comparing Gaza and Anne Frank is vile. The attic where she hid was in Amsterdam, not Germany. Trump is a moron Pink Freud Hokie School Bonds (@PinkFreudHokie) July 28, 2025 "Foreign policy insights from the movies. Perfect," one user wrote. Another added, "That's not how it worked." Are there any attics left in Gaza??? DaveStirek (@57555ds) July 28, 2025 "Are there any attics left in Gaza???" one user inquired, referring to the statistic that an estimated 70% of all buildings in Gaza have been destroyed. Trump previously faced backlash for suggesting that Nazis showed Jews "signs of love" during the Holocaust after meeting with freed Israeli hostages in April. Several users slammed Trump's statements seemingly intended to frame Hamas militants as more cruel than Nazis as "a grotesque distortion of history" at the time. Originally published on Latin Times Delhi Patiala House Court on Tuesday rejected the anticipatory bail plea of Delhi State Youth Congress president Akshay Lakra. He sought an anticipatory bail in a case of alleged attempt to murder. An FIR was registered on July 24, 2025, at the Barakhamba Road police station on the complaint filed by Ratan Ranjan, a stand-up comedian. Ratan Ranjan has alleged that an attempt was made on his life at the BJP head office by the accused persons in a car. First, he was tried to be abducted. When this failed, he was tried to be killed by being run over by a car. Interestingly, an FIR was lodged against Ratan Ranjan also in Telangana for allegedly using a morphed image of Rahul Gandhi in a social media post. An FIR is also registered at Bangalore, Karnataka. Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Chander Jit Singh rejected the anticipatory bail plea after hearing submissions and considering the material placed on record, including CCTV footage. Delhi police filed a reply opposing the plea and stating that the custodial interrogation of Akshay Lakra is required. "In the report filed on behalf of the State, multiple grounds have been cited opposing the bail, although, in oral arguments, only the point regarding recovery of the vehicle is stated, but the court cannot be oblivious to the other points raised in the written report. One such point is the requirement of custodial interrogation to uncover any conspiracy," ASJ Singh said in the order passed on July 29. The plea was opposed by the public prosecutor for the State. Senior advocate Anil Soni, alongwith Advocates Neeraj and Kishan Nautiyal, appeared for the complainant. It was contended by counsel for the accused that in a case where the accused is not required for custodial interrogation, he can be granted bail. The court rejected these arguments. "The CCTV footage bears prima facie testimony in support of allegations made by the complainant," ASJ Singh said in the order. It was submitted by the counsels for Akshay Lakra that the FIR is the counterblast of the Complaint filed by him against the complainant at IP Estate on July 24. It was also argued that the Lakra, being an advocate, deserves protection from arbitrary arrest as the case is politically motivated. It was also submitted that section 109 BNS (Attempt to murder) is completely unsustainable, being misconceived. The complainant has not suffered any injury. It was also argued that the complainant was not in front of in the centre of the car. He was on the right side of the car. The court rejected the contention of the Defence counsel and said that it seems that it is sought to be argued that there was no such situation where the complainant could have suffered any injury. The court further stated that, according to the report, the Complainant had managed to escape. This contention is corroborated by the CCTV footage. "It is not imperative that a person should be in the centre of a vehicle to be run over or hit by a vehicle. A collision at high speed is apparently sufficient to cause injuries which may end the life of the victim," ASJ Singh pointed out. He said, "Therefore, the argument of the applicant regarding the complainant/victim being on one side regarding the vehicle attempting to run over the victim, especially when the complainant states that he was trying to escape, is of no consequence." (ANI) The arrest of two Kerala-based Catholic nuns in Chhattisgarh on charges of human trafficking and religious conversion has ignited a political storm, with leaders from the Congress accusing the ruling BJP of targeting Christian minorities and suppressing legitimate rights. The incident took place on July 25 at Durg Railway Station, where nuns were arrested by police after a complaint was filed by a local. Speaking to the media in Durg, senior Congress leader and former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said, "We wrote a letter to the CM and also raised this issue in the Lok Sabha, and we all gave statements against it. A delegation of MPs and MLAs from Kerala had come to meet them, but they were told to come tomorrow because a BJP delegation is in Raipur, so they were not allowed to meet. I told the DG that they should be allowed to meet; otherwise, we will stage a sit-in here... now their meeting has happened..." In Delhi, veteran Congress MP K. Suresh blamed right-wing elements for orchestrating the incident. "After the BJP came to power in Chhattisgarh, the Christian minorities are attacked every day by Bajrang Dal with the support of the BJP government. Two days ago, two girls came with consent to join the Nuns for work. But the Bajrang Dal decided that these nuns took two girls for conversion from Hinduism to Christianity. So they attacked the nuns. After that, the Chhattisgarh Police filed an FIR. The two innocent nuns and those girls are in jail...," he said. CPI leader Annie Raja, who also attempted to meet the arrested women, alleged political interference in the prison''s handling of the case. "We give a proper application. While giving the application, the authorities said that they will do all the arrangements. Now they are saying that we have violated the rules of the jail. The people who came before us said that they had met the nuns after 3 pm... They might have gotten the orders from the CM, RSS, or the Bajrang Dal by not allowing us to meet them...," he said. On July 27, the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) also strongly condemned the alleged incident, claiming that, according to reports, the women had explicit written permission from their parents but were physically assaulted after being arrested. CBCI''s statement read, "Such incidents not only threaten the modesty of women but also put their lives in grave danger. These repeated, unwarranted actions are a serious violation of the Constitution and cannot be tolerated." (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday that no leader in the world told India to stop Operation Sindoor, carried out to retaliate against the Pahalgam terror attack. PM Modi's remarks have come amid opposition parties targeting the government over United States President Donald Trump's repeated claims that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. India has firmly rejected any claim of third-party mediation, stating the cessation of hostilities came about after Pakistan's DGMO called his Indian counterpart. Speaking in the debate in Lok Sabha on Operation Sindoor, PM Modi also said that India has proved that nuclear blackmailing will not work anymore, and neither will India bow down to nuclear blackmailing. The Prime Minister said he told US Vice President JD Vance during phone conversation that India will respond strongly if Pakistan launches an attack after India launched Operation Sindoor. India launched Operation Sindoor early on May 7 and conducted precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK. With Pakistan resorting to escalation through military action, India pounded Pakistan's airbases. "No leader in the world told India to stop its operation. On the night of 9th May, the Vice President of America tried to talk to me. He tried for an hour, but I was in a meeting with my army, so I could not pick up his call. Later, I called him back. The Vice President of America told me on the phone that Pakistan is going to launch a big attack. My answer was that if Pakistan has this intention, it will cost them a lot. If Pakistan attacks, we will respond by launching a big attack. This was my answer," PM Modi said. "Ab hamle ke baad mastermind ko nind nahi aaati, unko pata hain Bharat aayega aur maar kar jayega. This new normal has been set by India. 'Sindoor se leke Sindhu tak', we have taken action against Pakistan," PM Modi said. He said Operation Sindoor makes it clear that India has decided on three points. "If there is a terrorist attack on India, we will respond in our own method, on our conditions and on our time; no nuclear blackmail would work now and we will not see terrorist-supporting governments and terror masterminds as two separate entities." PM Modi said that Pakistan's airbases and assets suffered heavy damage in India's retaliation. "And to date, many of their airbases are in ICU....Terrorist bases were destroyed in Pakistan. No one can imagine that anyone can reach there. Bahawalpur, Muridke, has also been razed to the ground. Our forces destroyed the terrorist bases. We have proved Pakistan's nuclear threat to be false. India has proved that nuclear blackmailing will not work anymore and neither will India bow down to this nuclear blackmailing. India has shown its technical capability. It has struck Pakistan precisely on the chest," he said. "This is the era of technology-based war. If we had not made the preparations that we have done in the last 10 years, then we could imagine how much loss we could have suffered in this era of technology. Through Operation Sindoor, for the first time, the world recognised the power of self-reliant India. Made in India drones, missiles exposed Pakistan's weapon system," he said. He said India's armed forces avenged the April 22 terror attack within 22 minutes with precision attacks. "Right after Pahalgam terrorist attack, Pakistan Forces had this idea that India would indeed take a major action. They started making nuclear threats. On the intervening night of 6-7 May, India took action just as decided. Pakistan could not do anything. Our armed forces avenged 22nd April within 22 minutes with precision attacks...Armed Forces were given a free hand. They were told to decide the when, where and how...We are proud that terrorists were punished, and it was such a punishment that the terrorist masterminds have sleepless nights even to this day," he said. "I was abroad on 22nd April. I returned immediately. And immediately after coming back, I called a meeting and we gave clear instructions that a befitting reply has to be given to terrorism and this is our national resolve. The army was given a free hand to act. And it was also said that the army should decide when, where, how and in what manner. All these things were clearly said in that meeting," he added. PM Modi also took digs at Congress, alleging that it continues to rely on Pakistan for political narratives", has "compromised on national security" and that Congress-led governments neglected the Indius Waters Treaty. "I stand here to present India's side before this House. Those who don't see India's side, I stand here to show them a mirror....The cruel incident that happened in Pahalgam on 22nd April, the way terrorists shot innocent people after asking them about their religion, was the height of cruelty. This was a well-thought-out attempt to throw India into the fire of violence. This was a conspiracy to spread riots in India. Today I thank the countrymen that the country foiled that conspiracy with unity," he said. "I had said that this is a session of India's 'vijayotsav'...When I am speaking of 'vijayotsav', I would like to say - ye 'vijayotsav' aatanki headquarters ko mitti mein milane ka hai," he added. The discussion on Operation Sindoor concluded in Lok Sabha on Tuesday. It will continue in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. (ANI) Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia on Tuesday chaired a stakeholders' meeting under the Sanchar Saathi initiative, along with Secretary, Department of Telecommunications, Dr Neeraj Mittal, to strengthen action against telecom-related cyber frauds. The meeting focused on enhancing public awareness, implementing preventive measures, and promoting Jan-Bhagidari through citizen participation. Sanchar Saathi, a citizen-centric digital safety platform, integrates advanced tools such as the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) for blocking lost or stolen phones, the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP), AI-powered systems like ASTR (Artificial Intelligence and Facial Recognition Technology) for identifying fake connections, and the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) to detect and prevent financial fraud. The initiative has recorded significant achievements in securing India's telecom ecosystem. Over 82 lakh fake mobile connections have been disconnected, and more than 35 lakh lost or stolen mobile phones have been blocked so far. Within 24 hours of deployment, the system also prevented 1.35 crore spoofed international calls, achieving a 97 per cent reduction in such calls. The Sanchar Saathi portal has received over 16 crore visits and records an average daily engagement of 2 lakh users. With inputs from citizens, AI-based tools, and stakeholders, more than 4.7 crore mobile connections have been disconnected. In addition, the platform has facilitated the blocking of 5.1 lakh mobile handsets, disengagement of 24.46 lakh WhatsApp accounts, and blacklisting of 20,000 bulk SMS senders involved in fraudulent activities. Under the CEIR system of Sanchar Saathi, 35.49 lakh lost or stolen devices have been blocked, 21.57 lakh traced, and 5.19 lakh recovered. Today, Sanchar Saathi has onboarded 620 organisations, including central agencies, state police forces, telecom service providers (TSPs), and GSTN, forming a strong collaborative network to counter telecom fraud and cyber threats across the country. As part of the initiative's expansion, the Union Minister launched the Sanchar Saathi mobile application in Hindi and 21 regional languages to enhance accessibility. Originally launched in January 2025, the app allows users to report suspicious communications, block or trace lost/stolen phones, and check for unauthorised mobile connections. It is now available on Android and iOS platforms and has crossed 46 lakh downloads. The meeting was attended by key stakeholders from law enforcement agencies, telecom operators, financial institutions, and civil society. Participants included Shikha Goel (Head, Telangana Cyber Security Bureau), Sanjeev Kumar Sharma (DDG, Digital Intelligence Unit), Rajesh Kumar (CEO, I4C), Pushpamitra Sahu (CGM, RBI), Shivnath Thukral (Head of Public Policy, PhonePe), and M. Paramasivam (ED, PNB), along with senior officials from C-DOT, RPF, and the Department of Telecommunications. Citizens from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh also shared their experiences with the Sanchar Saathi initiatives, expressing appreciation for its growing efficiency and real-time redressal capabilities. They recounted how they were able to retrieve their stolen handsets swiftly using the platform. Sujit Beck, a citizen cyber warrior, shared how he has helped disconnect thousands of fraudulent mobile connections through Sanchar Saathi and helped people, especially the elderly, through awareness initiatives and swift action against cyber fraud. Sanchar Saathi continues to evolve as a powerful, inclusive platform that empowers citizens to stay safe from telecom fraud and contributes significantly to India's cyber resilience. The expansion of the app into regional languages marks a significant step toward ensuring digital safety for all. (ANI) The Odisha units of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Yuva Morcha and Mahila Morcha on Tuesday staged a joint protest against Biju Janata Dal (BJD) corporator Amresh Jena and Congress NSUI Odisha president Udit Pradhan over their alleged involvement in separate rape cases. The protest comes amid rising concerns over crimes against women in the state, with both leaders being arrested in connection with serious charges in recent days. On July 27, BJD corporator Amresh Jena was arrested in Balasore district in connection with a rape case after allegedly evading arrest for several days. The BJD subsequently suspended Jena from the party. According to Laxmisagar police, five individuals were earlier arrested and booked for aiding Jena in evading arrest. Police said the accused provided him with transport and shelter. The five arrested have been identified as Bibek Kumar Swain (29), Bikram Mohanty (42), Debendra Kumar Bhola alias Bulu (45), Suman Kumar Sahoo (27), and Rajib Champati (45). They have been forwarded under sections 64(2)(m), 89, 296, 351(2), 61(2), 249, and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), read with Section 6 of the POCSO Act. Meanwhile, on July 19, the President of the Congress party's student wing in Odisha was arrested in connection with the alleged rape of a 20-year-old girl student at a college in Bhubaneswar. The accused, identified as Udit Pradhan, has been arrested by the Odisha police, according to information provided by the Odisha Police Commissionerate. Pradhan is the President of the Odisha National Students' Union of India (NSUI), the student wing of the Indian National Congress. As per the police, the incident happened on Friday night when the girl was allegedly given an intoxicating substance in a drink by the accused before he allegedly committed the offence. The incident reportedly took place in a hotel in Mancheswar in Bhubaneswar. Police said, "There has been an allegation by a girl student about giving an intoxicated substance in a drink and then of rape in a hotel against one Udit Pradhan". "On the basis of the report submitted by the victim, FIR has been registered at the Mancheswar Police Station and the accused Udit Pradhan has been arrested", the Police said. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Aparajita Sarangi on Tuesday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address in the Lok Sabha during the debate on Operation Sindoor, stating that the speech effectively conveyed the details of the operation to the people of the country. "We all heard him speak, and after hearing him, I think we are all speechless...I think all 140 crore people got to know everything about Operation Sindoor," Sarangi told ANI. The BJP MP said that the ruling side comprehensively presented the various aspects of the operation. "All our senior leaders presented their perspectives quite well. I was a member of the Operation Sindoor (global outreach) delegation. I think every aspect of Operation Sindoor was presented very well by the ruling side," she said. Calling the Prime Minister's address "inspiring," Sarangi said the Opposition had been exposed. "I think PM's speech will keep inspiring us for days to come. The mask of the Opposition parties has been taken off. Congress should self-introspect; today, they spoke what they should not have spoken. I think all their ignorance would have been washed away with PM Modi's speech today," she added. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi took a swipe at the Opposition, accusing it of repeatedly finding new excuses to oppose military operations, including Operation Sindoor, which was launched following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, the Prime Minister said the entire country is "laughing" at the Opposition, particularly targeting the Congress for what he called its history of questioning the armed forces. "Terrorists are crying, their masterminds are crying and seeing them cry, some people are crying here too. They tried to play a game during the surgical strike; it didn't work. During the airstrike, they tried playing another game. That didn't work either. When Operation Sindoor took place, they adopted a new tactic--"Why did you stop?"...Waah re bayan bahaduron! You need one or the other excuse to oppose. So, not just me but the entire country is laughing at you," the Prime Minister said. (ANI) Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament over his silence on US President Donald Trump's claims of having brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Participating in the debate on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi said, "Donald Trump has said 29 times that he brokered ceasefire. If he is lying, then the PM should say this in the House that Trump is lying. If he has the courage of Indira Gandhi, let him say here that Donald Trump is a liar. And we didn't lose any planes. If he has even 50 per cent courage of Indira Gandhi." The Congress MP also criticised India's foreign policy stance following the Pahalgam terror attack and questioned the External Affairs Minister's use of the term "new normal". "One new word has come - 'new normal'. EAM use this word frequently. He said in speeches that countries have condemned terrorism, absolutely, but he didn't tell that after Pahalgam, not a single country condemned Pakistan. It means the world is equating us with Pakistan. Earlier, during the UPA government, it was clear that Pakistan was promoting terrorism, and they used to condemn Pakistan," Rahul Gandhi said. Rahul Gandhi also referred to Pakistan's Army Chief General Asim Munir's recent visit to the United States, where he was invited for lunch with US President Donald Trump. "EAM says we have deterred Pakistan. The man behind Pahalgam is General Munir. That man is having lunch with US President Trump... The new normal is Gen Munir having lunch with President Trump... Another new normal - at the end of the exercise (Op Sindoor), the GOI said any act of terror is an act of war... It's craziness. You have taken the entire idea of deterrence and turned it down. What will you do if the next terror attack happens?" the Lok Sabha LoP stated. The Congress MP further claimed that India lost five fighter jets during the operation due to "political constraints" imposed on the armed forces. Citing remarks of Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Captain Shiv Kumar, India's Defence Attache in Indonesia, the LoP said, "Second thing he (Defence Minister) said - He told the Pakistanis that we are not going to hit any of your military infrastructure. This is an interesting fact. I said freedom of manoeuvre, meaning freedom to the air force. Captain Shiv Kumar, Defence Attache, Indonesia, he says - I may not agree with him that India lost so many aircraft, but I do agree we did lose some aircraft, that happened only because of the constraints given by the political leadership to not attack the military establishments and their air defence." "It means - You went into Pakistan and told our pilots do not attack their air defence systems. It means you told your pilots to go and attack Pakistan and face their air defence system. It means you tied their hands behind their back. The point is, aircraft were lost. It means you started and said you do not have political will and you won't attack military establishments and then asked the pilots to fights. Everybody knows the result; you do not want to give answers but everybody knows the result..." Gandhi asserted. Gandhi also cited remarks made by Lieutenant General Rahul Singh, Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Capability Development and Sustenance), suggesting that Pakistan had real-time intelligence from China during DGMO-level talks. The LoP said, "I want to say to CDS General Anil Chauhan ji, you made no tactical mistake, the Indian air force made no mistake, the mistake was made by the political leadership that said you cannot attack the military infrastructure. The air force is not to blame at all." Referring to the remarks Lieutenant General Rahul Singh, the Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Capability Development and Sustenance), the Congress MP said, "Lieutenant General Rahul Singh, during an event on May 11th, said that when the DGMO-level talks were going on, Pakistan actually mentioned that we know that such and such an important vector is primed and ready for action. I would request you to perhaps pull it back. And he says so, it is very clear they were getting live battlefield inputs from China... If you had listened to me here, you would not have lost those 5 planes. If you have listened that Chinese and Pakistanis have fused..." Reiterating the opposition's support during the operation, Gandhi said the INDIA bloc had backed both the armed forces and the government from the outset. "A brutal and heartless attack organised and orchestrated clearly by the Pakistani state. Young people and old people murdered mercilessly. Together, every single person in this house condemned Pakistan. The moment Op Sindoor began, in fact before it began, the opposition committed itself that we will stand like a rock with forces and elected government of India. We heard the odd jibe, the sarcastic remarks from some of their leaders, but we said absolutely nothing. This was something that was agreed among all senior leadership of the INDIA alliance. We are very proud that as an opposition we stood united as we should," he said. The LoP also shared emotional accounts from his meetings with families of victims of the Pahalgam attack. "After Pahalgam, I went to Narwal Ji's home, which was in Karnal, his son was in the Navy, and he himself was in the CRPF. I felt like I was sitting with my own family. He showed me his son's photographic album and told about him. In one way, he told me about his family... After that, in Uttar Pradesh, I met another family, and terrorists killed a husband in front of his wife. It is painful and saddening. Whatever happened was wrong, everybody condemned it..." he said. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar asserted a transformative shift in India's counter-terrorism strategy, declaring that there is now a "new normal" in combating the threat, during discussions on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha on Monday. Addressing the House, the EAM outlined a five-point doctrine to combat cross-border terrorism, marking a resolute stance following India's recent military action under Operation Sindoor against nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. "The challenge of cross-border terrorism continues but Operation Sindoor marks a new phase. There is now a new normal," the EAM said. Emphasising India's unwavering commitment to national security, Jaishankar at first dismissed the notion of terrorists as mere proxies, signalling a direct approach to holding states accountable. The second and fourth points by the EAM underscore India's readiness to retaliate and resist nuclear threats, while the third and fifth points reject simultaneous peace talks and neighbourly relations with terror-sponsoring entities, famously encapsulating the phrase "blood and water cannot flow together." "The new normal has five points. One, terrorists will not be treated as proxies. Two, Cross-border terrorism will get an appropriate response. Three, Terror and talks are not possible together. There will only be talks on terror. Four, Not yielding to nuclear blackmail. And finally, Terror and good neighbourliness cannot coexist. Blood and water cannot flow together. This is our position," Jaishankar stated. The EAM during the discussion also noted that Pakistan has crossed "red lines" with the terror attack in Pahalgam and affirmed it was important to send a "clear and strong message" to the neighbour, known for supporting cross-border terrorism. "It was important to send a clear, strong and resolute message after the Pahalgam attack. Our red lines had been crossed, and we had to make it very apparent that there would be serious consequences as a result," Jaishankar said. Highlighting all the interactions and diplomatic briefings during that period, Jaishankar affirmed that "all of this was aimed at these two objectives: zero tolerance of terrorism and the right to defend ourselves, the right to defend the people of India against the cross-border terrorism." He also outlined India's diplomatic efforts and approach in the aftermath of the attack, noting that the focus of Indian diplomacy was the United Nations Security Council. "The focus for our diplomacy was the UN Security Council. The challenge for us was that at this particular point, Pakistan is a member of the Security Council and we (India) are not (at that time)...," he said. Jaishankar highlighted India's key objectives at the UN body. He noted India aimed to secure the Council's endorsement for holding Pakistan accountable for cross-border terrorism and to bring to justice those who perpetrated this attack and expressed hope that the House acknowledges the efforts made in this regard. "Our goals in the Security Council were two: 1, to get an endorsement from the Security Council of the need for accountability, and 2, to bring to justice those who perpetrated this attack," Jaishankar said. He noted the April 25 statement issued by the Security Council and said India's goals were met. "I am glad to say that if you look at the Security Council statement of 25th April, the members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the terrorist attack. They affirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security," he added. Jaishankar further rejected claims of any third-party mediation in the cessation of hostilities between India and Pakistan and also said that at no stage, in any conversation with the US, was there "any linkage with trade and what was going on." He rejected opposition criticism of the government following US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of mediation in ending hostilities between India and Pakistan and said there was no call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump from April 22 to June 17. However, he said that on May 9, US Vice President JD Vance called PM Modi, warning of a massive Pakistani attack in the next few hours. "Prime Minister, in his response, made it very clear that if such an attack happens, it would meet with an appropriate response from us. That attack took place and was foiled by our Armed Forces, and I think the House should collectively appreciate the performance of the Armed Forces in foiling what was a massive attack on the 9th and 10th of May. Our response, which the Prime Minister promised, was delivered, and it was delivered with devastating effect. I don't have to say anything. Every member has seen satellite pictures of Pakistani airfields. You can see from the state of those airfields, which is shown by the pictures, what our answer was," the Union Minister said. (ANI) Former Chief Justice of Pakistan Jawad S Khawaja has submitted a contempt petition to the Pakistani Supreme Court against the country's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, accusing him of failing to implement the court's May 7 directive in the military courts case, The Express Tribune reported on Monday. According to The Express Tribune, Khawaja, in his plea, argues that the Pakistani Supreme Court had clearly ordered the federal government to either amend existing laws or introduce new legislation within 45 days to ensure that civilians convicted by military courts are granted the right to appeal in a High Court. He contends that the government has not complied with this instruction. "This is a straightforward case. The Supreme Court directed the Federal Government to make necessary amendments/legislation to provide an independent appellate right to the High Court from decisions in court-martial proceedings within 45 days. This direction has not been complied with," the petition read, as quoted by The Express Tribune. Khawaja claims that the federal government has defied a binding court ruling and asserts that Shehbaz Sharif, named as the respondent, is responsible for this inaction. The petition also emphasises that when fundamental rights are at stake, superior courts have the authority to direct federal or provincial governments to align laws with constitutional guarantees and to enforce or issue relevant notifications. "In cases of violation of fundamental rights, the Superior Courts are empowered to issue directions to the Federal Government or the Provincial Governments to bring the law in conformity with fundamental rights and/or enforce law and issue notification in that regard," the petition added, as quoted by The Express Tribune. It further notes that both the legislative and executive branches can be ordered to introduce legal reforms to ensure that laws uphold constitutional rights. The original ruling by the Supreme Court reaffirmed earlier judgements and instructed the government to legislate on appeal rights for those convicted by military courts, stressing that such action is vital to uphold constitutional protections, as reported by The Express Tribune. (ANI) The Ambassador of Peru to India, Javier Manuel Paulinich Velarde, expressed his optimism about concluding negotiations related to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and Peru by the end of 2025, or at the latest by early 2026. Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of Peru's 204th Independence Day celebration in Chennai on Monday, Ambassador Velarde expressed his excitement over the event while highlighting the investment opportunities in the South American nation. "I'm very enthusiastic because this is the first time that we celebrate our national day in Chennai. We expect to continue in the near future... This is an opportunity to show about how is Peru, which products we can trade in the future and inform about some activity like the negotiation of a free trade agreement between India and Peru," he said. "We would like to finish a free trade agreement negotiation as soon as possible, perhaps at the end of this year or in any case at the beginning of next one... The idea is to reduce customs duties on several products and promote investment from India to Peru and from Peru to India," he added. The Ambassador highlighted recent diplomatic efforts between India and Peru, noting a visit by Peru's Foreign Ministry to India in March and an invitation extended to External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to visit Lima later this year. "We have a good relationship. In March this year, the Foreign Ministry of Peru came to India. We invite Mr Jaishankar to Lima; I think he's planning to go at the end of the year," he stated. The event was hosted by the Honorary Consul of Peru in Chennai R Dinesh and the Chairman of TVS Supply Chain Solutions, and underscored the growing economic and cultural ties between the two nations. Dinesh emphasised the potential synergies between India and Peru, noting the rich mineral resources available in Peru and the various benefits that the South American country can derive from India's vast manufacturing sector. "Considering the rich mineral resources available in Peru and the various benefits that the manufacturing sector, which is a strong presence in Tamil Nadu, has, we are very happy that the government is also supporting this endeavour to make sure we have further expansion of the opportunities," he stated. "The Indian government is actually negotiating a free trade agreement, as you have heard the Commerce Minister mention. That's something from the industry we are very much looking forward to, and from South America. Peru is one of the very stable economies and therefore has both sourcing of earth and other minerals, and also other opportunities that we see for trade. So the Indian government is looking at this in a very positive manner, and we are very delighted with that," Dinesh added. Tamil Nadu IT Minister Palanivel Thiagarajan also attended the event as the Chief Guest. The celebration also included a special session titled "India-Peru: Business and Beyond," which explored economic cooperation, investment opportunities, and cultural exchange. "We are celebrating the 204th Independence Day of Peru, but I think the idea was to actually introduce the opportunities and cultural integration between Tamil Nadu and Peru. We had the opportunity to hear the Ambassador and various others who have been invested in Peru speak about what they see as the benefits and the value of working in Peru," Dinesh further noted. Dignitaries from the diplomatic, business, and cultural spheres also attended the event, reflecting the strengthening of the bilateral relationship between India and Peru. (ANI) Russia is reportedly equipping American-made trucks to launch deadly kamikaze drone strikes on Ukrainian cities, according to a new report. A modified Ram 1500 pickup truck could be seen in a July 20 video by Zvezda, a state TV channel controlled by the country's defense ministry, firing kamikaze drones, according to the Kyiv Independent. Four more trucks with the same feature were later seen in the video showing off the Tatarstan region drone factory, although a source told the outlet that launching drones from pickup trucks was not common. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Stellantis, who owns Ram Trucks, paused all exports to Russia after sanctions were implemented on the country. However, between February 2022 and September 2024, 130 Michigan-made Ram 1500 trucks ended up in the country. The majority of these exports are believed to have come about through a tactic called "transshipment," which is when a company direct sales through a country that is not participating in the sanctions. Several companies based in the United Arab Emirates, who was not involved in the sanctions on Russia, allegedly rerouted sales of the American trucks through the country to sell to private Russian companies. From there, the trucks could be sold anywhere in Russia. While companies could be able to continue sales in sanction-restricted countries with a special license, Alex Bashinsky, a co-founder at the Global Sanctions Training Institute and member of the International Working Group on Russian Sanctions, told the outlet that they are "hard to obtain." No companies reached out to by Kyiv Independent explicitly stated they had the required license. An intel report from earlier this month revealed that Russia's kamikaze drones are set to multiply in number to use in its war against Ukraine, with the number Shahed-136s, the most common explosive-carrying drone used by Russia, reportedly up exponentially. On Thursday, at least 33 people were injured in an attack on Kharkiv, Ukraine, which officials from the Kharkiv Regional Prosecutor's Office said may have involved a new weapon developed by Russia, UMPB-5 bombs, though this remains unconfirmed. Originally published on Latin Times The IDF force attempted to make contact and fired at the terrorist to eliminate the threat. The terrorist was "neutralised"(this means he was stopped and possibly killed), and there were no casualties among the IDF forces. (ANI/TPS) Information being circulated by certain individuals regarding the Nimisha Priya case is inaccurate and does not reflect the current status of the matter, sources revealed on Tuesday Nimisha Priya, an Indian national, is facing the death penalty in a murder case in Yemen. Earlier, the office of Indian Grand Mufti Kanthapuram AP Abubakker Musliyar had claimed that "the death sentence of Nimisha Priya, which was previously suspended, has been overturned. A high-level meeting held in Sanaa decided to completely cancel the death sentence that was temporarily suspended earlier." On July 17, during a weekly media briefing, the Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Randhir Jaiswal, called the matter "sensitive" and said that India is providing all possible assistance. The MEA has appointed a lawyer to help Priya's family handle the complicated legal process in Yemen. This includes looking at possibilities for clemency or pardon under Sharia law. The Indian government has also arranged regular consular visits to ensure Priya's well-being and to support her during this difficult period. "This is a very sensitive matter, and the government of India has been offering all possible assistance in the case. We have provided legal assistance and also appointed a lawyer to assist the family. We have also arranged for regular consular visits by her family, and we are also in touch with the local authorities, as well as the family members, to resolve this issue. This included concerted efforts in the recent few days to seek more time for the family of Nimisha Priya to reach a mutually agreeable solution with the other party. The local authorities in Yemen have postponed the carrying out of her sentence that was scheduled for July 16," said Jaiswal. He added that India is also in contact with other friendly governments to secure a favourable outcome. "We continue to closely follow the matter and render all possible assistance in the case. We are also in touch with some friendly governments in this regard," Jaiswal said. (ANI) At least 30 people have died following days of heavy rain in the mountainous northern outskirts of Beijing, according to a CNN report citing Chinese state media on Tuesday. Severe rainstorms have lashed northern China in recent days, leading to flash floods and landslides. In Hebei province, which borders Beijing, a landslide killed four people, while eight others are missing, state media reported. In Beijing, the rains intensified on Monday, causing the deaths of 28 people in the Miyun district and two more in the Yanqing district, both located in the northern part of the capital, according to state broadcaster CCTV. The downpours have also damaged dozens of roads and cut off electricity for 136 villages. More than 80,000 people have been relocated, including about 17,000 in Miyun, according to CCTV, as reported by CNN. Footage circulating on social media shows brown floodwater sweeping through residential communities, washing away cars, knocking down electricity, and turning streets into rivers in Miyun. On Monday, Beijing issued its highest-level flood alert, urging residents to stay away from swelling rivers. The city's meteorological observatory also issued a red alert for rainstorms--the highest in a four-tier system--warning of intensifying rain during the night and "extremely high risk" of flash floods, mudslides, and landslides in mountainous areas. By Monday evening, authorities ordered schools to be shut, all scenic spots across the city to be closed, and all rural homestays and campsites to suspend operations. The heavy rainfall and the accompanying floods and geological disasters have caused "significant casualties and property losses" in Beijing and the northern provinces of Hebei, Jilin, and Shandong, Chinese leader Xi Jinping said on Monday, according to CCTV. Xi instructed officials to make an "all-out effort" to search and rescue those still missing, properly evacuate and resettle residents at risk, and minimise casualties to the greatest extent possible. On July 27, China's Ministry of Water Resources activated a Level 4 emergency response for flood control in Beijing, Xinhua reported. Since Thursday, the Chaobai River has experienced heavy to torrential rainfall. The Miyun Reservoir, located in the northeast suburbs of Beijing, on Sunday recorded its largest inflow flood since the reservoir was built over six decades ago, according to the Ministry. (ANI) Floodwaters from the Indus and Chenab rivers have indundated more than a dozen villages across Pakistan's Punjab province, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate, destroying homes, crops, and roads, Dawn reported on Tuesday. In Rajanpur district, floods damaged standing crops and submerged low-lying areas. Water from the Indus also affected villages in Taunsa and Dera Ghazi Khan. In Taunsa, residents fled after a breach appeared in a National Highway Authority-built embankment near the Layyah-Taunsa bridge. The floodwaters submerged villages like Basti Kumharan, Basti Mangotha, and Basti Sohbewala of Punjab province. Hundreds of people from Bait Ashraf and Jarh Leghari villages in Taunsa waited for help after their homes and roads went under water. Some residents moved to higher ground with limited supplies. In Jhang district, the Chenab River overflowed, flooding more than 10 villages and damaging houses, crops, and roads. In Hafizabad, erosion along the Chenab washed away hundreds of acres of farmland. Rainwater has remained stagnant for over 10 days in Hafizabad and Sukheke towns, worsening the situation. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) predicts that July 29-31 will see more rainfall. The department warned of low-to-medium-level floods in the Jhelum and Chenab rivers and flash floods in tributaries of the Kabul River and hill torrents in D.G. Khan and Rajanpur. It also predicted medium-level floods in the Indus River at Taunsa and Guddu, as per Dawn. The Punjab Disaster Management Authority reported that 152 people have died and 539 have been injured in monsoon-related incidents this year. Causes include electrocution, drowning, building collapse, and lightning. The report also confirmed that 210 houses and 121 livestock were affected, according to Dawn. Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a fresh alert as a new rain spell begins. The NDMA asked local authorities to stay on high alert, deploy rescue teams, and clear drainage systems. In Punjab, heavy rainfall is expected in Sargodha, Hafizabad, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Lahore, and Narowal. Moderate rain is likely in DG Khan, Rajanpur, and Rahim Yar Khan. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, districts like Kohistan, Swat, Dir, and Buner could see thunderstorms and flooding. Rivers like Swat, Panjkora, and Kalpani Nullah may swell and raise water levels in River Kabul. Urban flooding is expected in Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, and Abbottabad. Glacial melting and rain could also increase water levels in Chitral's rivers. Pakistani authorities have issued flood alerts in Gilgit-Baltistan's Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, and Shigar areas, as well as in Azad Jammu and Kashmir's Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and Bagh, according to Dawn. (ANI) US President Donald Trump on Tuesday denied seeking a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, amidst ongoing trade negotiations between the two countries. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said that he may visit China only at Xi's invitation, which has already been extended. "The Fake News is reporting that I am SEEKING a "Summit" with President Xi of China. This is not correct, I am not SEEKING anything! I may go to China, but it would only be at the invitation of President Xi, which has been extended. Otherwise, no interest! Thank you for your attention to this matter," Trump said. https://x.com/RapidResponse47/status/1950026140048912757 Earlier on June 5, Trump had stated that he had a 'very good' telephonic conversation with Xi which focused on trade. He said that the latter had invited him to visit China. "I just concluded a very good phone call with President Xi, of China, discussing some of the intricacies of our recently made, and agreed to, Trade Deal. The call lasted approximately one and a half hours, and resulted in a very positive conclusion for both Countries... Our respective teams will be meeting shortly at a location to be determined. We will be represented by Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and United States Trade Representative, Ambassador Jamieson Greer. During the conversation, President Xi graciously invited the First Lady and me to visit China, and I reciprocated..." Trump said. The United States and China are poised to start a fresh round of talks in Sweden, aiming to extend a temporary trade truce that held back triple-digit tariffs while the world's two biggest economies try to broker a lasting deal, CNN reported. Delegations led by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will convene in Stockholm before the current deadline expires on August 12. Ahead of the talks, Bessent said an extension is "likely" and that "trade is in a very good place with China," as per CNN. (ANI) Geography is an enemy to China's aspirations for a powerful blue-water navy. While one cannot doubt the might of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), China remains hemmed in by a network of islands and land masses that stand in the way of free access to the Pacific Ocean. Another obstacle for Chinese military domination is its lack of true allies and, correspondingly, a network of military bases around the world it can rely upon in time of need. China's isolation sharply contrasts with its nemesis the USA, which demonstrated its ability to deploy over long distances and to intimately interoperate with allies like Australia and the UK during the recently concluded Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia. Geostrategic experts call this natural network of land masses around China the First Island Chain, and it extends from the Japanese mainland and archipelago to Taiwan, the Philippines, before being anchored in the south in Indonesia. This island chain is extremely significant because, if China and the USA go to war over Taiwan, for example, then it would form a critical line of defense to contain China. Capturing Taiwan is therefore not only a "patriotic duty" for communist China, but it would immediately give Beijing an open channel into the wider reaches of the Pacific Ocean. There is a Second Island Chain, but it is a chain in name only since it is characterized by vast oceanic stretches. It extends from Japan's outlying volcanic islands, passes through the Mariana Islands (where Guam is the critical hinge), the Caroline Islands, and terminates in western New Guinea. As it figures out how to more effectively penetrate into the Pacific Ocean, the PLAN has been making more frequent forays into the Western Pacific in recent years. These voyages have a training purpose and they lay down a marker to countries like Japan and the USA that China can sail wherever it pleases. Perhaps the clearest example of this mindset yet was the exercising of two PLAN aircraft carriers in waters far to the east of Taiwan and the Philippines recently. The first carrier, Liaoning, crossed the First Island Chain from the East China Sea on 27 May, with the Shandong carrier group following suit on 7 June. The latter had sailed from the South China Sea. Whilst in the Western Pacific, the two carrier groups conducted "realistic combat training and adversarial drills," according to China's Ministry of National Defense. Liaoning operated there from 27 May till 19 June, whilst Shandong remained there from 7-22 June. The training included reconnaissance, early warning, counterstrike, anti-surface warfare, air defense, and tactical flights. From 14-18 June, the two carrier groups likely performed carrier-versus-carrier wargames, with Liaoning presumably acting as the "blue force" simulating an American carrier strike group. The two carriers remained some 500-600 km apart, just beyond their outermost defensive boundaries, and they performed intensive aircraft sorties. The highest number of daily sorties occurred on 14 June, when 90 take-offs occurred from Liaoning. The two carrier groups had recrossed the First Island Chain by 22 June. This twin deployment marked three significant "firsts" for the Chinese military, according to Yu-cheng Chen and K. Tristan Tang in a report published by The Jamestown Foundation think tank in the USA. Firstly, they asserted, it was the first time two PLAN carriers have sailed simultaneously in the Western Pacific. Japan's Ministry of Defense has recorded 14 previous instances of Chinese aircraft carriers operating in that maritime zone since 2021, but this was the first time the PLAN did so with two carriers. The second milestone came about since this was the first time a Chinese carrier had voyaged beyond the porous Second Island Chain. This was achieved when Liaoning and her escorts sailed approximately 300 km southwest of Minami-Tori-shima and moved southwest by another 400-500 km the following day. Prior to this, the farthest a PLAN flattop had proceeded was when Liaoning reached 700 km east of Guam in December 2022. Significantly, Chinese carriers are nowaays foraying farther from home. Last year there were five Chinese carrier deployments, and four of those occurred near the Bashi Channel that separates the Philippines and Taiwan. Yet this year, with four carrier deployments already, all have been longer and more dispersed. Thirdly, Chen and Tang noted, was the record length of time a Chinese carrier group has conducted operations beyond the First Island Chain. For 27 days, at least one Chinese carrier group was operating in the Western Pacific. Liaoning was there 24 days, whilst Shandong managed 16 days. This accords with the PLAN's desire to expand its training plan and validate training scenarios in maritime areas China previously did not address. Chen and Tang commented, "The drills constitute a shift in the PLAN's focus toward long-range operations. This likely stems from an assessment by the PLA's Central Military Commission (CMC) that the navy has achieved sufficient combat capability in the country's near seas." The academics continued, "The PLA has begun to cross the Second Island Chain, which includes Guam, in the Western Pacific. This shift brings Chinese forces closer to Hawaii. As a result, the United States may need to adjust its force deployments and rotation schedules accordingly. In addition, the latest shift could imply that the PLA Navy believes it has secured operational dominance in nearby waters. If so, it likely will engage in more assertive and potentially unsafe behaviour during naval encounters with vessels from neighbouring states in future." Chen and Tang highlighted two pertinent points. "The first is that the PLA has started shifting the focus of its training from near-seas comprehensive operations toward far-seas mobile operations. The second - which follows from the first - is that the CMC likely has determined that the PLA now possesses comprehensive near-seas combat capabilities, such as those needed for operations around Taiwan." Far-seas mobile operations ,designed to control key straits, protect sea lines of communication, safeguard China's overseas interests and deter a military crisis, are a challenge for China. This is primarily because China lacks shore-based air support and close-range logistical supply. This lack of a supporting network forces the PLA to concentrate its naval assets and to perform far-seas raiding and guerilla warfare. This requires speed and effectiveness, as well as early-warning and monitoring capabilities. China is still developing doctrines for far-seas mobile operations, but they are predicated on China comprehensively dominating its near seas first. If the PLA cannot operate freely within the First Island Chain, it does not bode well for missions farther afield. China has already normalized operations around Taiwan, and it seems the PLA is now doing the same in the Western Pacific. Chen and Tang assessed: "The PLA Navy's shift in training focus from near-seas to far-seas operations could lead to more direct pressure on the United States. Key US military outposts beyond the mainland - such as Hawaii - could have to contend with increased naval presence by Chinese naval forces operating closer and with greater endurance than before. This development not only challenges the United States' strategic depth in the Pacific, but may also compel it to reconsider its force deployment and readiness posture throughout the Indo-Pacific region." Of course, it is helpful to contrast this Chinese carrier activity with that of its adversaries. During Exercise Talisman Sabre, held in and around Australia from 13-27 July, the USA and UK both operated aircraft carriers. The US Navy contributed USS George Washington, while the Royal Navy's HMS Prince of Wales participated in the massive wargames involving 19 nations. Equipped with F-35 fighters, the two carriers met in the Timor Sea north of Darwin in what they described as a "powerful demonstration of naval power." The US carrier was accompanied by a cruiser and destroyer, whilst HMS Prince of Wales was escorted by a multinational flotilla comprising Australian, British, Canadian, New Zealand and Norwegian warships. Rear Admiral Eric Anduze, Commander of Carrier Strike Group Five, spoke to ANI from his flagship USS George Washington shortly after the multinational exercise kicked off. He stated, "We participate in Talisman Sabre 25 in order to rehearse, join and combine operations with our Australian counterparts, demonstrate maneuverability of naval forces in a contested environment, and increase operability and lethality." Asked about the importance of such wargames, Anduze shared, "We rehearse our tactics and communications, how we operate and how Australia operates, how we communicate and how we integrate across multiple domains. All of these experiences increase interoperability and strengthen our alliance as a whole for the security and freedom of the Indo-Pacific." He elaborated on the importance of allies and interoperability: "The US conducts routine operations in this area of operations to ensure freedom of navigation, a free and open Indo-Pacific that's resilient and prosperous for all. And we have to do it with allies and partners in order to be successful and have the most impact. So anytime we have the ability to share, coordinate and work together, it's a chance for our tactics to become more refined and for us to be able to come together quickly." ANI asked whether aircraft carriers like USS George Washington have become vulnerable. Anduze asserted that aircraft carriers "are still the most survivable airfield in the world. As time has evolved, threats have changed, and we've adjusted our tactics with the times in order to become more survivable. We have defense in depth, technology and tactics that help us protect this vessel, and all of the assets that sail with or around her throughout the entire area of operations." The commander further noted: "Submarine and missile technologies have evolved over the years, and aircraft technology has evolved over the years. It's a game of what technology does the enemy possess, and what technologies can we develop to counter those things, whether it's new aircraft like the F-35 and its stealth capabilities, better defense missiles, adjustments to our Aegis system and its ability to intercept incoming threats." He assured, "We're evolving and adjusting. And that's the technical piece of it, but there's also the tactical piece. I can't go into specifics of how we've changed our tactics to improve the security of the aircraft carrier, but we're always evolving. We're always assessing the threat and our capabilities, developing technologies and looking for ways to integrate those." Indeed, a major portion of these developing threats is the PLA, which has developed weapons like the DF-21D anti-ship ballistic missile, DF-17 hypersonic missile and modern conventional and nuclear-powered submarines. As another example of the interoperability being achieved by Five Eyes partners - Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and USA - the Australian military rearmed a Canadian warship in Darwin during Talisman Sabre 2025. HMCS Ville de Quebec received RGM-84 Harpoon Block II missiles on two occasions. This proves the ability of partners to rearm each other far from home, thanks to common weapons. China, which has few close military allies, cannot compete with such an ability. Yet more interoperability occurred when two US Air Force pilots flew Australian F-35A fighters during Talisman Sabre 2025. This "interfly" activity illustrated the close bonds between countries like the USA and Australia. One of the aviators involved, Major Justin Lennon of the USAF, noted, "In the long term, as a coalition, normalizing interfly gives commanders additional options for agility and versatility in a future conflict. In a prolonged conflict, airplanes are capable of flying more hours a day than a pilot. Having the added flexibility to put any pilot in any F-35 and generate combat airpower anywhere in the world adds to the F-35 coalition's lethality." China is working hard to extend its reach and to project power far from home shores. However, Beijing's ability to do so remains its obvious weakness, especially when one compares China's solitary status with the network of alliances and partnerships that the USA has forged in the Indo-Pacific region over decades. (ANI) The Kremlin said Putin made the offer during a phone call with Netanyahu amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel. "In light of the recent escalation in the Iranian-Israeli confrontation, Russia has expressed its readiness to assist in every possible way to facilitate a diplomatic solution concerning Iran's nuclear program," the Kremlin press service said in a statement, as per TASS. The phone conversation between Putin and Netanyahu comes weeks after a brief military conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States in June, which raised global concerns over regional stability. Israel has long opposed Iran's nuclear activities, even when claimed to be for civilian purposes. It believes that Tehran could use the technology to develop nuclear weapons, a concern shared by the United States. On June 13, Israel launched a military operation targeting Iranian assets. Iran responded with retaliatory strikes. Nine days later, the United States entered the conflict and reportedly attacked three Iranian nuclear sites, TASS said. By June 24, all three countries agreed to a ceasefire, but tensions remain high. The Kremlin said Moscow supports diplomatic negotiations and views dialogue as the only way to resolve the dispute over Iran's nuclear programme. (ANI) US Attorney General Pam Bondi on Monday (local time) said the Justice Department had filed a misconduct complaint against District Judge James Boasberg for making "improper public comments" about President Donald Trump and his administration. "Today at my direction, [DOJ] filed a misconduct complaint against US District Court Chief Judge James Boasberg for making improper public comments about President Trump and his Administration," Bondi posted on X. https://x.com/AGPamBondi/status/1949974166205034753 The complaint, authored by Bondi's chief of staff Chad Mizelle, has been submitted to Chief Judge Sri Srinivasan of the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit, Fox News reported. According to the complaint, Judge Boasberg made remarks at a March 11 judicial conference attended by US Chief Justice John Roberts and nearly two dozen other judges. Mizelle alleged that Boasberg strayed from traditional topics and said the Trump administration would "disregard rulings of federal courts" and trigger "a constitutional crisis." "While there, Judge Boasberg attempted to improperly influence Chief Justice Roberts and roughly two dozen other federal judges by straying from the traditional topics to express his belief that the Trump Administration would 'disregard rulings of federal courts' and trigger 'a constitutional crisis,'" Mizelle wrote, according to Fox News. "Although his comments would be inappropriate even if they had some basis, they were even worse because Judge Boasberg had no basis, the Trump Administration has always complied with all court orders," Fox News quoted Mizelle. Boasberg's comments came just days before he presided over a case involving Trump's use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport suspected migrant gang members to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador. The judge later ruled on March 15 to halt deportation flights, claiming that the Trump administration had violated his order. That order was later overturned by the Supreme Court. Boasberg, 62, is an appointee of former President Barack Obama. Mizelle alleged that Boasberg's remarks and actions suggest bias and violate the Code of Conduct for US Judges. "Within days of those statements, Judge Boasberg began acting on his preconceived belief that the Trump Administration would not follow court orders," Mizelle wrote, according to the New York Post. He said the judge's conduct "erodes public confidence in judicial neutrality" and called for his immediate removal from the case to "prevent further erosion" during the investigation. (ANI) The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) announced in a post on X that today is the 13th day in a row of the peaceful sit-in protest occurring in Islamabad, organised by families of individuals who have been forcibly disappeared and detained BYC leaders. The BYC highlighted that, despite intensified intimidation methods from officials, which include monitoring, blocking buses, and recording students, the families are resolute in their determination. Additionally, the committee commemorated the first anniversary of the significant Baloch Raaji Muchi gathering in Gwadar by observing two minutes of silence. "Today marks the 13th consecutive day of the peaceful sit-in protest in Islamabad by families of forcibly disappeared persons and detained Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leaders", stated the BYC post on X. "Once again, Pakistani authorities have intensified their attempts to isolate and suppress this movement. Islamabad Police parked buses around the protest site to block visibility, and surveillance continues. Uniformed and plainclothes personnel enter the protest space regularly, filming participants and particularly students to intimidate them. Despite these tactics, the families have refused to be silenced", stated the post on X. "Today also marks one year since the historic #BalochNationalGathering "Baloch Raaji Muchi" in Gwadar, which was a moment of unity and resistance in the face of oppression. In remembrance, the families observed two minutes of silence in honour of martyrs of Baloch Raaji Muchi, and families also shared their experiences and testimonials regarding the Baloch National Gathering", BYC said on X. Balochistan has long been the centre of persistent human rights issues. The area has experienced cycles of violence related to separatist movements, a heavy military presence, forced disappearances, and economic neglect. These challenges have attracted attention from human rights groups, journalists, and international observers. Human rights groups have long accused Pakistani authorities of abducting civilians in Balochistan without due process, using enforced disappearances to suppress dissent and intimidate communities in restive areas. Pakistani authorities routinely deny these allegations, but civil society continues to condemn the security forces' role in systematic abductions targeting students, political workers, and residents. (ANI) Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leader Sammi Deen Baloch has disclosed that a clandestine FIR has been filed against her, purportedly contradicting the government reports presented to the court, as reported by The Balochistan Post (TBP). In a post on social media, Sammi Deen Baloch stated that she is presently on bail from the Balochistan High Court concerning seven FIRs. She asserted that she has consistently challenged each FIR lodged against her in court and requested the court to officially notify her through appropriate channels if any new cases are registered against her. Per her statement, during these court sessions, the government reportedly provided a document to the court indicating that no FIR had been registered against her in Awaran or the surrounding regions. The BYC leader contended that, nevertheless, a secret FIR has been filed against her in Awaran without any prior notification to her. She accused that based on this undisclosed FIR, she has not only been labelled a proclaimed offender but also arrest warrants have been issued against her in Balochistan, as stated by TBP. She mentioned that these warrants could be utilised to apprehend her at any time and in any location, particularly if she re-enters Balochistan. Sami Deen Baloch expressed that the law is now being weaponised to silence their dissent, arguing that such strategies are clear indications that the state is aiming to legitimise its oppression and tyranny, according to TBP. Previously, Sammi Deen Baloch condemned social media personalities and self-proclaimed journalists for allegedly targeting Baloch families who have been peacefully protesting in Islamabad for twelve consecutive days, according to a report by The Balochistan Post (TBP). Reflecting on the ongoing protests by Baloch mothers and sisters in the capital, Sammi Baloch noted that while mainstream media and credible journalists have remained entirely silent about the demonstrations, certain social media influencers and self-styled "journalists," who seemingly lack comprehension of media ethics and fundamental journalistic principles, are harassing the protesters by pressuring them to be filmed for the sake of views and followers. (ANI) At least some officials in the Trump administration knew that a triple murdered was among the detainees taken from Venezuela to the U.S. as part of a large prisoner swap that included Salvadoran authorities, according to a new report. The New York Times detailed that "at least some people in the Trump administration" knew about the criminal past of Dahud Hanid Ortiz, who was sentenced to 30 years in prison for killing three people in Spain but fled to the South American country. The outlet added that the crimes of Ortiz were all documented in the media and public court records for years, and that in 2023 officials in the Joe Biden administration decided not to take him in a different prisoner swap. It noted that Spanish authorities asked the U.S. to send him to the country, but they ultimately decided against it and the Department of Justice didn't want him in the U.S. The State Department did not confirm to the outlet whether Ortiz was taken to a U.S. prison upon arrival to the country. Images published by media outlets showed him smiling and holding a flag along with other people released as part of the agreement. One person with knowledge of the case said Ortiz is now in Orlando, Florida. Spanish outlet El Pais noted that Ortiz was born in Venezuela and served in Iraq after getting U.S. citizenship. He was sentenced to 30 years in prison in Venezuela in January last year for killing three people in Madrid in 2016. He had escaped to the South American country after the crime and arrested there two years later. The prisoner exchange took place last Friday and involved the return of 252 Venezuelans held in El Salvador's maximum security prison CECOT in exchange for the 10 Americans held in Venezuela. Diosdado Cabello, Justice Minister in Venezuela's authoritarian government, said when discussing the exchange that "we handed over some murderers for you." Originally published on Latin Times Beijing is initiating a charm offensive directed at the younger demographic in Australia. As reported by ABC News, in this new chapter of China-Australia diplomacy, Chinese President Xi Jinping is focusing on reaching out to youth, including teenagers and university students, to help facilitate this initiative. Following Chinese Premier Li Qiang's meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the Great Hall of the People last week, both parties issued a joint statement agreeing to "encourage more young Australians to travel to China" through Beijing's youth exchange initiatives. Albanese's notable visit came after the diplomatic thaw that began with his meeting with Xi in Bali in 2022. Since that time, China has progressively lifted trade sanctions, reinstated high-level discussions, and expressed a wish to mend relations with Canberra, particularly through people-to-people connections, according to ABC News. In late 2023, Beijing introduced the Young Envoys Scholarship (Y-E-S) program in collaboration with the United States, intending to bring 50,000 young Americans to China over five years. The Chinese government covers travel expenses, lodging, meals, and outings, allowing participants to visit significant cities, universities, and cultural sites, all designed to showcase a favourable view of China. This model is now gradually being extended to other nations, including Australia, following the joint outcome statement from Albanese and Li. While no official quota has been set for Australia, Beijing's intention is evident: it seeks to increase the number of young Australians visiting China and is prepared to finance it. Youth exchanges serve to portray a more relatable image of China, counter negative global perceptions, and foster goodwill, as mentioned in the ABC News report. The 50,000-person initiative in the US has drawn scrutiny, with participants noting they were guided away from sensitive political discussions, cautioned about their online posts, and shown a curated version of life in China. Many of these initiatives operate under the oversight of the Chinese Communist Party's International Liaison Department, the agency tasked with managing foreign political relations. The youth exchange initiative emerges amidst ongoing public concern regarding China's Confucius Institutes, which seek to promote the Chinese language and culture in foreign educational institutions but have faced criticism for pushing Beijing's political agenda, as reported by ABC News. (ANI) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin held discussions on Iran, the Prime Minister's Office confirmed on Tuesday. Taking to X, the official handle of the Prime Minister of Israel posted, "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The conversation between the two leaders was on the issue of Iran." https://x.com/IsraeliPM/status/1950121608179286199 According to The Times of Israel, the phone call also covered wider developments in West Asia East, with a focus on Iran's nuclear program and the recent sectarian violence in Syria. During the call, Putin "emphasized the importance of supporting the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity" of Syria, as per a Kremlin statement cited by The Times of Israel. The discussion came after Israeli airstrikes earlier this month targeted Syrian military sites in Sweida and Damascus, following sectarian unrest in the Druze-majority city. Clashes in Sweida province, which began on July 13 and lasted for a week, initially involved Druze fighters and Sunni Bedouin tribes. According to witnesses, experts, and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the violence escalated when Syrian government forces intervened on behalf of the Bedouin. The war monitor reported that more than 1,400 people, mostly Druze, were killed, and over 250 Druze civilians were summarily executed by government personnel. Putin also reiterated that "political stability in the country must be achieved through respect for all ethnic and religious groups' interests," The Times of Israel noted. Despite its war in Ukraine, Russia maintains military presence in Syria and continues to support Bashar al-Assad's regime, which fell in December, prompting Assad's relocation to Moscow. According to The Times of Israel, the Russian President also offered to mediate renewed talks on Iran's nuclear program, which had stalled following Israel's surprise strikes on Iranian military and nuclear facilities last month, triggering a 12-day war. Moscow had previously played a key role in removing enriched uranium from Iran during the 2015 nuclear deal under the Obama administration. While Russia is a close ally of Iran--having deepened military cooperation amid the Ukraine war--it has also maintained diplomatic ties with Israel, home to a significant Russian-born population. As such, The Times of Israel reported that Moscow refrained from supporting Tehran during recent Israeli and US strikes on Iranian sites. There was no immediate readout of the call from Netanyahu's office. Earlier this month, Kan public broadcaster reported that Israel had initiated quiet diplomatic engagement with Russia to reduce tensions involving both Iran and Syria. The Times of Israel added that in June, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov indicated Moscow's willingness to help narrow US-Iranian differences by converting Iran's enriched uranium into civilian reactor fuel. It remains unclear whether Moscow will reprise its previous role in Iran's nuclear file at this juncture. (ANI) The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarm over a spike in polio cases in Afghanistan and Pakistan, confirming nine new infections this year and warning of increased cross-border transmission risks due to refugee movements and limited access to vulnerable populations, Khaama Press reported. In a statement released on July 28, the WHO confirmed that eight of the nine new polio cases were detected in Pakistan and one in Afghanistan, marking a concerning development in the region's fight to eradicate the disease, according to Khaama Press. The health agency identified Afghanistan's southern provinces, along with Pakistan's Quetta, Karachi, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as major hotspots for transmission. "The return of Afghan refugees from Pakistan is increasing the risk of cross-border spread of the virus," the WHO noted, as per Khaama Press. WHO stressed that eliminating polio will require strengthened regional collaboration and uninterrupted access to all children, especially in conflict-hit and marginalized communities. "Eradicating polio requires stronger regional cooperation and consistent access to all children," the agency stated. Health experts have also warned that without immediate and sustained action, decades of progress could be reversed. "Without urgent action, the progress made in recent decades could be undone," they cautioned. The WHO has called on governments, humanitarian organizations, and local leaders to intensify immunization campaigns and ensure that no child is left unvaccinated, Khaama Press reported. Echoing the WHO's warning, Pakistan's persistent failure to protect its children has been laid bare by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which confirmed three fresh polio cases this week, raising the total to 17 for 2025, Dawn News reported. The latest spike highlights the urgency of WHO's call, especially in high-risk zones with weak immunization coverage and mobility between borders. With polio still endemic in Pakistan and Afghanistan, the government's inability to eradicate the disease underscores broader systemic neglect. The newly confirmed cases include a 15-month-old girl from Takhtikhel in Lakki Marwat, a six-month-old girl in Mir Ali tehsil, North Waziristan, and a five-year-old boy from Chajro, Umerkot in Sindh, Dawn News reported. These latest infections bring the tally to 10 cases in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, five in Sindh, and isolated instances in Punjab and Gilgit-Baltistan. Despite a nationwide effort to curb the disease, polio continues to exploit gaps in Pakistan's outreach, particularly in conflict zones, marginalised rural settlements, and areas plagued by vaccine hesitancy. A special vaccination drive launched from July 21-27 in the border areas of KP and Balochistan, aligned with Afghanistan's campaign, has failed to produce meaningful results, analysts argue, Dawn News noted. Similarly, a fractional dose vaccination campaign in Chaman and across six Balochistan districts beginning July 28 lacks the decisive implementation needed to reach children in remote communities. Polio remains incurable and devastating, causing permanent paralysis in the absence of consistent oral vaccine coverage. Yet, the persistence of 17 cases in 2025 highlights Pakistan's chronic inability to secure universal immunisation and prevent outbreaks. As Dawn News emphasised, each unvaccinated child poses a danger not only to themselves but to the broader population. Even Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's recent vow to intensify eradication efforts reflects a leadership that is reactive rather than proactive, Dawn News reports. Despite international funding and polio partnerships, public-health failure remains a recurring theme in Pakistan. The situation reveals glaring deficiencies in Pakistan's health infrastructure: campaign fatigue, public distrust fuelled by misinformation, and poor crisis management. It is a bitter reminder that, despite global progress, polio continues to stalk Pakistan's most vulnerable, making the state complicit in its ongoing spread. Unless urgent reform and genuine community engagement replace half-hearted campaigns, Pakistan remains perilously close to collapsing its polio eradication commitments. (ANI) US President Donald Trump has dismissed reports suggesting he is seeking a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating that he is not pursuing any such meeting, The Hill reported on Tuesday https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114934232969144109 "The Fake News is reporting that I am SEEKING a 'Summit' with President Xi of China. This is not correct, I am not SEEKING anything!" Trump said on Truth Social. He further addressed speculation about a potential visit to China. "I may go to China, but it would only be at the invitation of President Xi, which has been extended. Otherwise, no interest! Thank you for your attention to this matter," Trump said. The clarification comes as officials from both countries engage in ongoing tariff talks in Stockholm this week, marking the third round of negotiations between the United States and China. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is leading the US delegation, The Hill noted. According to the US media outlet, the outcome of the Stockholm talks could potentially lead to an extended tariff truce and lay the groundwork for a meeting between Trump and Xi later this year. However, Trump's comments signal a more reserved stance, despite recent progress. The US and China are working against an August 12 deadline stemming from earlier agreements in May and June, which reduced previously imposed triple-digit tariffs. For other trading partners, Trump has set an earlier deadline of August 1 for the resumption of tariffs, The Hill reported. "We have a good relationship with China," Trump had said on Monday. "China's tough," he added, while speaking about the broader trade dynamics between the two nations. As per The Hill, Trump last month described President Xi as "extremely hard to make a deal" with, reflecting the complex and often strained relationship the two leaders have shared in recent years. (ANI) Rushan Abbas, the Founder and Executive Director of the Campaign for Uyghurs, exposed the ongoing atrocities perpetrated by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) against the Uyghur population in Xinjiang, characterising the situation as an "active and full-fledged genocide" in a discussion with The Epoch Times. Abbas, a dedicated human rights advocate and the Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the World Uyghur Congress, outlined various abuses, including mass detentions, forced labour, sterilisation, and organ harvesting, all witnessed by a largely indifferent international community. Abbas noted that her activism has incurred a significant personal toll. In 2018, soon after she publicly addressed the mass detention of Uyghurs in East Turkestan at the Hudson Institute, Chinese authorities detained her sister, which she believes was an act of retaliation. "I've been a U.S. citizen since 1995 and have lived in the United States since 1989," she remarked. "But that didn't make a difference. They abducted my sister to retaliate against me." This action, she explained, is part of what she referred to as "transnational repression," a strategy employed by Beijing to target activists overseas by threatening or punishing their relatives still in China. She pointed to the existence of more than 100 secret Chinese police stations worldwide, including in the United States, which are said to monitor and intimidate diaspora communities, such as Uyghurs, Tibetans, Hong Kongers, and practitioners of Falun Gong. On the current situation of Uyghurs in China, Abbas asserted that all aspects of Uyghur identity, including language, religion, and ethnicity, have been criminalised. The Chinese government, she claimed, believes that Uyghurs need to be "re-educated" to assimilate as Han Chinese. "In the eyes of this barbaric regime, we are not even viewed as normal human beings," she stated, citing forced sterilisation of women, separation of children from their families, and the dismantling of Uyghur businesses and agricultural land. She illustrated a systemic effort to eliminate Uyghur identity while profiting from their exploitation. Abbas reported that over 3 million Uyghurs were subjected to forced labor in the past year alone. Much of the cotton exported from China, she noted, is handpicked by Uyghur workers under duress. "From the garments you wear to the tomatoes in your pasta, they all might be stained by the blood, sweat, and tears of Uyghur slaves," she cautioned. Abbas recounted that crematoria were constructed near detention facilities, and in significant Uyghur cities like Kashgar, expedited airport lanes were established specifically for the transport of human organs. She connected this to state-sponsored DNA collection and mandatory health screenings that commenced years prior. "The Chinese government has transformed genocide into a lucrative enterprise," she asserted, referencing reports of 13 tons of human hair from Uyghur prisoners arriving in the United States. Abbas also condemned Western influencers and social media figures for taking part in Chinese state-sponsored trips to Xinjiang, which she described as staged propaganda tours designed to obscure genocide. "They are presented with a fabricated version of Uyghur life, featuring rehearsed locals and lavish meals," she explained. "Meanwhile, anyone who dares to reveal the truth simply vanishes." She expressed profound frustration over the global indifference to these atrocities. "Tyranny persists due to silence. Silence is its fuel," Abbas remarked. She urged the international community, particularly Western democracies, to hold China accountable and to stop normalising relations for the sake of economic gain. With proposed laws such as the Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act and the Falun Gong Protection Act advancing in the U.S. Congress, Abbas called for swift action from lawmakers. "If we don't halt the CCP now, future generations will bear the consequences in a world devoid of freedom or rights," she cautioned. Abbas concluded with a message of unity and resilience for the Uyghur diaspora. "Hope is the only thing we have left, but it is a powerful force if we stand together." (ANI) The Belgium Regional U-Tsang Association successfully hosted a two-day Shoton Festival in the coastal city of Ostend, Belgium, from July 26 to 27, 2025. The event featured Chief Guest Dhundup Gyalpo, the Tibetan Liaison Officer for Europe, along with representatives from various Belgian government and non-governmental organisations, members of the U-Tsang Cholkha in Belgium, and the broader Tibetan community in the country, as reported by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). The festival commenced with a performance of Tashi Shoelpa, an age-old Tibetan dance style, and was succeeded by a display of traditional Tibetan clothing from the U-Tsang region presented by young members of the Belgium U-Tsang community. The host association also showcased a variety of cultural performances that highlighted Tibet's rich heritage. In his keynote speech, Chief Guest Dhondup Gyalpo praised the Belgium Regional U-Tsang Association for its efforts in organising such an important cultural event. He also recognised the Tibetan community in Belgium for uniting in celebration of Shoton despite their geographical dispersion. He underlined the crucial importance of preserving Tibetan culture, particularly through language, history, and education across generations. He urged Tibetan parents and elders to cultivate a strong sense of cultural identity in the youth, stressing the need to maintain their unique heritage in an increasingly fast-paced world. Reflecting on 2025 as the "Year of Compassion," he encouraged community involvement in future events that promote compassionate values, as noted in the CTA report. Following the keynote address, Association President Ngawang Zomkyi provided a brief overview of the Shoton Festival and its profound cultural significance within Tibetan national customs and traditions. A ceremonial cake-cutting was conducted to celebrate the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday, as mentioned by the CTA. A key highlight of the event was the performance of the Tibetan opera Khandro Drowa Zangmo by the French Lhamo group. The evening wrapped up with a vote of thanks from Tsomo, Secretary of the Belgium Regional U-Tsang Association. Throughout the two-day festivities, participants enjoyed traditional Tibetan circle dances and engaged in various Tibetan games, fostering a strong sense of unity and happiness, according to the CTA report. (ANI) More than 1.5 million Afghan migrants have returned to Afghanistan from neighbouring countries since the start of 2025, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Tolo News reported. In a report released on July 19, the OCHA said, "As of 19 July, 1,541,000 Afghans have returned to Afghanistan in 2025, including 1,201,000 from Iran and 340,000 from Pakistan." The UN agency noted that while returnee flows from Iran remained high, around 460,000 between July 1 and 19, the pace of daily deportations had begun to decline, with approximately 9,000 Afghans arriving per day as of mid-July. This downward trend, it added, may be linked to "ongoing diplomatic discussions between de facto authority officials from Afghanistan and the Government of Iran," Tolo News reported. Meanwhile, the Islamic Emirate said 11,605 people returned to Afghanistan on Monday alone, with 1,811 of them relocated to their home provinces. "In the past two days, 19,002 migrants have returned from Iran and Pakistan, both voluntarily and through forced deportation," said Abdulmutalib Haqqani, spokesperson for the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation. Ali Reza Karimi, a migrants' rights advocate, voiced concern over the scale of removals, stating, "Unfortunately, between 10,000 to 20,000 Afghan migrants are being forcibly deported from Iran on a daily basis. The Afghan government must respond by establishing reception centers, providing initial aid, and creating short-term job opportunities to ease the burden on returnees," as quoted by Tolo News. Some deported Afghans also recounted their struggles. Abdul Wadood, who was deported from Iran, said, "We have no shelter in Afghanistan. Our request from the Islamic Emirate is to support and help us." Jalal, a deported child, appealed for educational support. "My wish is to go to school. I ask the government to help me study," he said. According to Tolo News, the situation has prompted the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, during a recent visit to Iran, to call for an end to forced deportations and propose a trilateral meeting involving Tehran, Kabul, and UNHCR. (ANI) At least 60,034 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces since the war on Gaza began in October 2023, the enclave's Ministry of Health said on Tuesday, amid intensifying bombardment and worsening famine conditions, Al Jazeera reported. According to medical sources cited by Al Jazeera, at least 62 more Palestinians, including 19 people seeking aid, were killed since dawn despite "pauses" announced to facilitate humanitarian deliveries. Reporting from Deir el-Balah in central Gaza, Al Jazeera's Tareq Abu Azzoum said, "Local accounts indicate that Israel used booby-trapped robots, as well as tanks and drones, in what residents describe as one of the bloodiest nights in recent weeks." "This is a sign of a possible imminent Israeli ground manoeuvre, although Israel has not yet confirmed the objectives of the attack," Abu Azzoum added. The latest violence comes amid an unfolding famine crisis, with the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a global hunger monitoring system, stating that famine thresholds have already been reached for food consumption in most of Gaza and for acute malnutrition in Gaza City. "Amid relentless conflict, mass displacement, severely restricted humanitarian access, and the collapse of essential services, including healthcare, the crisis has reached an alarming and deadly turning point," the IPC report stated. Food access has deteriorated sharply, with one in three residents going without food for days, the report noted. Between April and mid-July, more than 20,000 children were admitted for treatment of acute malnutrition, of which over 3,000 were severely affected. The enclave's Health Ministry said on Monday that at least 147 people, including 88 children, have died from malnutrition since the war began. Al Jazeera added that starvation is impacting all sections of the population. Sima Bahous, executive director of UN Women, said one million women and girls in Gaza face the "unthinkable choice" of starving or risking their lives in search of food. "This horror must end," Bahous posted on social media, urging for unhindered aid access, release of captives, and a permanent ceasefire. Doctors in Gaza are witnessing extreme cases of starvation. "Medical staff at Gaza's hospitals are seeing babies severely malnourished 'without muscles and fat tissue, just the skin over the bone'," Ahmed al-Farra, director of paediatrics and maternity at Nasser Hospital, told Al Jazeera. He added that malnutrition can severely impact brain development in infants. "Babies who have been malnourished will not have the required folic acid, B1 complex and polyunsaturated fatty acids that are essential for the composition of the central nervous system," he said. Al-Farra warned that this could impair reading, writing, and lead to depression and anxiety in later years. Tanya Haj Hassan, a doctor with Doctors Without Borders (MSF), explained that even when food arrives, serious health complications remain. "The reality is the problem doesn't end when the food arrives ... malnutrition impacts all aspects of the body's function," she told Al Jazeera. "All of the cells in your body are altered by this. In the intestines, the cells die. That results in issues with absorption, with bacteria. Your pancreas struggles; absorbing fats is difficult." She added, "Your heart cells become weak and thinned. The connections are impacted, the heart rate slows. These children often die of heart failure, even when they're being refed." "They also have life-threatening shifts in salts... more prone to sepsis and shock," Hassan said, adding that symptoms include low blood pressure, hypothermia, fluid overload, infection, and vitamin deficiencies that affect vision and bones. (ANI) Australian Independent Member of Parliament for Mackellar in Sydney, Sophie Scamps who is a supporter of the Tibetan cause delivered a speech in the Australian Parliament to mark the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, according to the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). In her address on July 28, Scamps said, "I take great pride that Mackellar, located on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, is home to the largest Tibetan Australian community in the country. We are fortunate to be enriched by this remarkable community." According to a report by the CTA, the Austalian legislator termed the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama as a moment of significant joy and spiritual meaning for Tibetans living in exile and globally. "This year's commemoration carries even more weight after His Holiness confirmed that the spiritual institution of the Dalai Lama will persist following his departure. This news is what millions of Tibetans and non-Tibetans have long awaited," she said. "His Holiness has consistently served as a source of hope and compassion in our world," she said. Scamps also reflected on two recent occasions she participated in to honour this milestone. The first was a lively, all-day celebration of traditional Tibetan culture that took place in her Mackellar constituency. The second was a formal dinner at the New South Wales Parliament House, featuring the Sikyong of the Central Tibetan Administration as the guest of honour. "These events held particular significance because such celebrations are not feasible within Tibet," she pointed out, stressing the importance of cultural freedom and expression for the Tibetan diaspora as mentioned in a report in the Tibetan bulletin. Additionally, Scamps reminisced about her visit to Dharamsala in 2023 as part of an Australian parliamentary delegation. During this trip, she said she had the opportunity to meet with the Dalai Lama and the leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration. (ANI) The High Commission of India, Dhaka, hosted a send-off ceremony on Monday on the High Commission premises to bid farewell to the students selected for the prestigious Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarships for 2025. This year, nearly 550 students have been selected from all over Bangladesh for the prestigious scholarship. Addressing the gathering on this occasion, High Commissioner Pranay Verma congratulated the scholars on their selection and urged them to use their academic pursuits in India both to advance their careers as well as to build new bridges of friendship between India and Bangladesh. He noted that India and Bangladesh share a deep and enduring bond, rooted in their shared history and culture, and in the shared sacrifices during the Liberation War of Bangladesh. He said that by participating in this scholarship programme, the youth of Bangladesh are contributing to strengthening these bonds and building our collective future. ICCR scholarship is a flagship programme of the Government of India for meritorious Bangladeshi nationals to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD courses in premier universities and educational institutions of India in wide-ranging streams. Underscoring this broader framework of bilateral cooperation in education and healthcare, the Indian Medical Team, consisting of specialists from two top hospitals of India, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi, returned to India on Monday evening after completing its mission in Bangladesh, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka said in a statement. The four-member team came to Bangladesh on 23 July 2025, in pursuance of the assurance of support and assistance extended by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, in the wake of the devastating air crash at the Milestone School and College in Dhaka on 21 July 2025. During its stay in Dhaka, the Indian Medical Team worked alongside their Bangladeshi counterparts at the National Institute of Burn & Plastic Surgery (NIBPS), offering specialised medical advice to support the treatment and recovery of the victims of the Milestone tragedy. "The Indian team expressed satisfaction with the treatment protocol being followed at NIBPS and exchanged expert opinions in dealing with the most critical cases," the statement said. "India remains ready to promptly extend any further support required by Bangladesh with regard to critical medical care and rehabilitation of those injured in the tragic incident, including any need for further advanced treatment in India," it added. "The visit of the Indian medical team in the wake of this national tragedy in Bangladesh is a reflection of the deep-rooted nature of people-to-people relations and the enduring bonds of empathy that connect our two countries," the statement said. (ANI) The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Tuesday strongly refuted media reports claiming that party founder Imran Khan had barred his sons, Sulaiman Khan and Kasim Khan, from visiting Pakistan or participating in any activity demanding his release, Dawn reported. Earlier in the day, reports surfaced quoting the incarcerated former prime minister allegedly telling reporters at Adiala Jail that his sons would not come to Pakistan or take part in any protests. The PTI founder has been in Adiala Jail since August 2023, serving a sentence in the 190 million corruption case, while also facing multiple pending cases under the Anti-Terrorism Act linked to the May 9, 2023, protests. Responding swiftly, PTI Central Information Secretary Waqas Akram rejected the reports, stating: "The news circulating in the media regarding Imran Khan Sahib's children is completely false. Imran Khan sahib has absolutely not stopped his children from coming to Pakistan. I would request those media friends who report from Adiala to only broadcast exactly what Khan sahib says. It is inappropriate to take things out of context, selectively, or to present conversations according to their own wishes," Dawn quoted him as saying. In a follow-up post, Akram reaffirmed that Imran Khan's sons would travel to Pakistan. "There should be no doubt in anyone's mind that Imran Khan's children will come to Pakistan. So far, only the date for this has yet to be determined. And everyone should remember that when they decided to come, they clearly told their father that we are not seeking your permission but informing you. So, avoid this propaganda because they are of no use," he added. According to Dawn, Imran's sister Aleema Khan had earlier mentioned that Sulaiman and Kasim would travel to the United States before arriving in Pakistan to join a movement for their father's release. The two brothers had also publicly addressed their father's imprisonment for the first time in May. While the federal government has not issued an official comment, Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry remarked that the sons were welcome to visit Pakistan and there would be no hurdle in issuing them visas "in less than 24 hours," provided they adhere to the law, Dawn reported. However, legal concerns regarding their participation in political activity remain. Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik told Dawn that Article 16 of the Constitution -- which grants citizens the right to assemble -- does not apply to foreign nationals. "If they violate the visa conditions, the visa can be cancelled," Malik noted, adding that as British nationals, the brothers cannot legally engage in local political activism. Amid the legal debate, PML-N leaders issued conflicting remarks. While Senator Irfan Siddiqui supported their entry into Pakistan, stating they should be allowed to "carry out their activities" within the bounds of the law, Malik and others emphasised adherence to legal limitations for foreign nationals. (ANI) Distinguished Indian-origin economist, author, and member of the UK House of Lords, Lord Meghnad Desai, passed away at the age of 85 on Tuesday, prompting an outpouring of condolences from across the world, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron. Born as Meghnad Jagdishchandra Desai in 1940 in Vadodara, the economist began his academic journey in economics at the University of Mumbai, where he earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees, following which he received a scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania, completing his PhD in economics in 1963, three years after enrolling. Following the news of his demise, PM Modi expressed grief and recalled his valuable contributions to economic thought and India-UK relations. "Anguished by the passing away of Shri Meghnad Desai Ji, a distinguished thinker, writer and economist. He always remained connected to India and Indian culture. He also played a role in deepening India-UK ties. Will fondly recall our discussions, where he shared his valuable insights. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti," PM Modi stated in a post on X. The British High Commissioner to India also expressed her condolences over Desai's demise, stating, "RIP Lord Desai. Thoughts with Kishwar Desai and his wider family and friends. Such fond memories of watching the UK general election with him last year," in a post on X. "So sad to learn Lord Meghnad Desai passed away in Delhi this evening. First Indian Labour Party Peer, Professor Emeritus LSE, renowned economist and author. A passionate advocate for UK-India links. Thoughts of all UK in India with his wife Lady Kishwar and their children," the Deputy High Commissioner of the UK to India, Christina Scott, stated in a post on X. The High Commission of India in London also paid tribute to Desai, noting that he had championed the strong and lasting ties between India and the UK and that his contributions would continue to inspire diplomats, academics, and thought leaders in both nations. "The High Commission of India in London is deeply saddened by the passing of Lord Meghnad Desai. A teacher, scholar, thought leader and great advocate of the enduring friendship between India and the UK. Lord Desai's work will be cherished by generations of diplomats, scholars and thought leaders in both countries. His role in the installation of a statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Parliament Square in London ensures that his legacy will endure," the High Commission of India in London stated in a post on X. Desai was elevated to the UK House of Lords in 1991, where he served as the first Indian-origin peer from the Labour Party. He held the title of Professor Emeritus at the London School of Economics (LSE) and was widely respected for his academic contributions and public policy insights. (ANI) Just days ahead of the self-imposed August 1 deadline date before the tariffs come into effect, US President Donald Trump stated that the India-US trade deal was "working out very well" but hinted at a 20 per cent to 25 per cent tariff on New Delhi. During a gaggle with the press interaction aboard Air Force One on Tuesday (local time), Trump responded to a report suggesting that India might be preparing for 20 to 25 per cent tariffs, stating that India had been imposing higher tariffs on the US as compared to other countries. He further mentioned that all this would come to an end as he is now "in charge." However, Trump hasn't sent any letters to India announcing the tariff imposed on New Delhi, as he did for many other nations. "India has been a good friend. But India has charged basically more tariffs than almost any other country over the years. But now I'm in charge. And you just can't do that. I think the trade deals are working out very well. Hopefully for everybody, but for the United States, they're very, very good," the US President said. Earlier on April 22, Trump imposed a tariff of 26 per cent on Indian goods imported to the US, before announcing a pause on those "reciprocal" levies. Meanwhile, the Union Minister for Commerce, Piyush Goyal, on Sunday, stated that the trade discussion between India and the US had been going "very well." "India today negotiates from a position of strength, a position of confidence. It is this very confidence that continuously encourages us to make good free trade agreements... Our discussions with the United States are progressing very well," he stated. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, during PM Modi's visit to the UK last week, also stated that India had been actively engaged in discussions with the US on a potential Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), emphasising the ongoing contacts with partners in the US. During a press conference following the signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, Misri stated, "We are discussing that under a different vertical. All I can say is that our engagement is underway. The contacts are underway, and we'll see how that goes." On July 14, a senior government official stated that India was making concrete progress toward finalising a BTA with the US, with both countries committed to following the path outlined by their respective leaders. Speaking on the ongoing trade negotiations, the official emphasised that India is "moving in terms of a BTA" and actively "looking at a mutually beneficial deal" that would serve the interests of both nations. Trump also used the opportunity to once again claim credit for his role in brokering the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, following the recent conflict in May. The conflict was triggered by the April 22 Pahalgam terror attacks, which killed 26 people, and India's subsequent response, 'Operation Sindoor,' involving precision strikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). He also praised India's leadership under Prime Minister Narendra Modi for its role in regional stability. "Look, India, they're my friends and he's (PM Modi) my friend and you know they ended the war with Pakistan and by request and I was great and Pakistan did also. We did a lot of great settlements," he said. India had reportedly refuted the claims made by the US president, noting that it was Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) who contacted their Indian counterpart to request an end to hostilities, following which the ceasefire was then agreed upon. (ANI) YAMAGUCHI, Jul 29 (News On Japan) - A small island in the Seto Inland Sea, home to just seven registered residents, is seeing rapid changes due to land acquisitions linked to Chinese investorsraising alarm among the local community. Located about ten minutes by boat from Suo-Oshima in Yamaguchi Prefecture, often dubbed the "Hawaii of Setouchi," Kasasa Island spans only about four kilometers in circumference. Known among locals for its excellent fishing spots, the island currently has only three full-time residents. One of them, who moved to the island about 25 years ago, leads a self-sufficient lifestyle by growing seasonal fruits and vegetables like watermelon, blueberries, and tomatoes, taking advantage of the warm climate. He described the island as "quiet, with no noise or voicestruly a perfect place. I came here expecting to stay until I die." But even this tranquil haven is experiencing unexpected changes. Residents say that land on the island has recently been purchased and is now being developed by Chinese individuals. "They're leveling mountains to make housing plots," said one resident. According to locals, the presence of foreigners began to increase around the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. One resident recalled, "Not long ago, someone who looked like a wealthy man came in a fancy car to have a look." To investigate these claims, the news crew chartered a boat and headed toward the area reportedly under development. Along the way, they found a discarded plastic bottle with Chinese writingpackaging from a popular beverage brand sold in Chinawashed up on the beach. On the opposite side of the island, where there were originally no homes or human presence, signs of land development became visible. Heavy machinery and what appeared to be electrical lines were seen extending into the area. Recent aerial photos confirm that trees have been cleared in parts of the island. A search of the property registry revealed that two plots of land are now owned by individuals with addresses in Shanghai, China. As of now, no buildings were visible from the boat, but the land appears to be under preparation for construction. "We havent been directly harmed by anything, but of course we're concerned," said one resident. "If this land all ends up owned by Chinese people, we Japanese will become the minority here." Online interest from China is also apparent. On Chinese social media, recent posts about Kasasa Island include comments such as "It's so cheap. How can I buy it?" and "I really want it." One user even encouraged a potential buyer to "plant the Chinese flag after you buy it." Another individual, who holds residency on the island and occasionally visits to fish, expressed mixed feelings: "There are no Japanese here anymore, but it can't be helped. It's a transaction between buyer and seller. In reality, the U.S. military base in Iwakuni is very close to here." Given the proximity of Kasasa Island to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's Kure base and the U.S. military's Iwakuni base, some locals have voiced concerns about national security. As foreign interest intensifies, so too does local anxiety over the fate of this once-sleepy island. When approached for comment, the real estate agent reportedly involved in selling the land to Chinese buyers said by phone, "Due to recent harassment and threats, we are currently unable to operate and cannot respond to interviews." Source: YOMIURI TOKYO, Jul 29 (News On Japan) - Empress Masako has completed her annual silkworm-rearing duties at the Imperial Palace, a tradition passed down through generations of empresses since the Meiji era. On this occasion, she took part in the closing ritual known as the "Goyosan-no-gi," in which silk threads produced from the harvested cocoons are ceremonially offered before the gods. In 2025, the Empress raised four types of silkworms. As in 2024, silk from the domestically bred Koishimaru variety was prepared for presentation to the Ise Grand Shrine, ahead of its Shikinen Sengu rebuilding ritual scheduled for 2033. According to palace officials, Emperor Naruhito and their daughter Aiko assisted in the process on July 26th. The Empress expressed her deep gratitude for the successful rearing and offered words of appreciation to the staff involved. Source: FNN London is home to millions of migrants, both legal and illegal. But how easy is it for migrants to settle in the UK? Recent studies suggest nearly one in 12 Londoners may lack legal status. With so many migrants comes a wide range of beliefs, values, and societal challenges. How Many Migrants Live in London Today? According to a January 2025 study commissioned by Thames Water, London may host between 390,355 and 585,533 illegal migrantsabout one in 12 residents. Experts caution figures may be conservative, based on 2017 data. Net migration into London was around 154,000 for the year ending mid-2023. Overall, more than 40% of Londons residents are foreign-born. This flow brings both opportunity and tension to the capitals diverse neighbourhoods. Differences in Beliefs, Values and Integration Many migrants arrive with values and beliefs different from those typical across England. For example, some newly settled communities may hold conservative perspectives on gender roles, faith, family and education. In parts of outer London, multicultural cohesion efforts have highlighted friction over attitudes to womens roles. One teacher in Barking noted that some pupils, often from migrant families, resisted appearing in mixed-gender school photos. While most migrants integrate positively, these incidents emphasise the need for structured cultural integration policies. Crime Examples, Grooming and Violence Unfortunately, some migrant communities have been connected with crime, generating concern. A national audit revealed police once avoided recording ethnicity in grooming-gang investigationsmany offenders were of Pakistani and other Asian descent. Historic cases in Rotherham and Rochdale involved organised groups of men, mainly of Pakistani heritage, exploiting vulnerable British teenagers. More recently, a Portsmouth rape case involving an asylum-seeker at a taxpayer-funded hotel prompted criticism for a lack of transparency. While such crimes are not representative of all migrants, they raise questions about accountability and community trust. Grooming Gang Scandals and Policy Gaps The Rotherham abuse scandal affected approximately 1,400 girls between the late 1980s and 2013. Most perpetrators were British-Pakistani men. Police and councils were later criticised for ignoring ethnicity out of fear of appearing racist. A national inquiry was launched only in June 2025. These events prompted Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to introduce mandatory ethnicity-recording policies for sexual offences. They also guided the plan for a national inquiry into organised grooming, covering over 800 cases. Migrant Support for Palestinian Causes Some migrant groups in London have been openly supportive of Palestinian activism. During pro-Palestinian protests in 2023, banners calling to globalise the intifada appeared in Tower Hamlets and Camden. While many rallies were peaceful, several ended in arrests due to hate speech or attempts to disrupt public order. Community leaders warn that these slogans can inflame divisions, especially in multi-faith neighbourhoods. Police and local councils are now scrutinising links between activist networks and migrant communities more closely. Balancing Multiculturalism and Public Safety London thrives on its diversity. Migrants enrich the arts, healthcare, hospitality and tech sectors. But challenges persist. Housing stress, school pressure, language barriers and cultural friction must be addressed proactively. Experts say compulsory orientation programmes, language classes and local mentorship can help. Integration efforts aided by community hubs and local councils must be properly funded. Ensuring Safety in a Diverse City So, how safe is London in 2025? Officially, crime rates are stable overall. However, public surveys show rising concern about gang-related violence, sexual exploitation, and extremist rhetoric. Transparency, law enforcement and community outreach are all vital. Effective policing, backed by data-driven crime recording, fosters trust. Equally, public services must bridge cultural divides and bolster social cohesion. London aims to remain the worlds leading multicultural capital. Achieving that goal requires balancing openness with vigilance. By promoting lawful integration, punishing crime impartially, and discouraging extremist messages, London can chart a path of unityand maintain its safe, inclusive identity. Princess Lalla Asmaa and the First Lady of El Salvador Gabriela Rodriguez de Bukele visited on Monday in Rabat the Headquarters of Lalla Asmaa Foundation for Hearing Impaired Children and Youth. On this occasion, the Princess and the First Lady of El Salvador toured various wards of the Foundation and were briefed on the cutting-edge medical care, rehabilitation, specialized education, psychosocial support, and family training provided by the institution. They also visited the Foundations summer camp, including the pedagogical greenhouse, the recreational activities and various workshops such as pottery, diorama creation, and sculpting clay. The Princess and the First Lady of El Salvador also visited the aerobics room, English and American Sign Language (ASL) classes, remedial classrooms, high-tech workshops, and the speech therapy room including a robot designed to aid in the learning of sign language and an AI-powered speech therapy application. Within the frame of the Lalla Asmaa Foundations humanitarian approach, twenty deaf children from El Salvador will soon benefit from Moroccan expertise in hearing impairment care, thanks to an initiative led by the Foundation. They will join the 800 Moroccan children and 240 children from 21 countries across Africa and the Middle East who have received surgeries and support from the Foundation during an exceptional humanitarian mission since the launch of the NASMAA program in 2002. Princess Lalla Asmaa also chaired, on Monday at the Royal Guests Palace in Rabat, a luncheon offered by King Mohammed VI in honor of the First Lady of El Salvador who is currently paying a working visit to Morocco. First Lady Gabriela Rodriguez de Bukele also visited the Hearing Diagnosis and Rehabilitation Center of the foundation, where she attended a presentation on the various activities of the Center, which reflects Moroccos commitment to the inclusion of deaf children. Inaugurated in March 2024, the Center includes a mother-and-child area, pediatric consultation rooms, ENT consultation rooms, speech therapy facilities, psychomotor therapy and psychology services, audiometry and auditory evoked potentials units, as well as an infirmary. El Salvadors First Lady also received detailed explanations on the latest possibilities for remote adjustment and activation of cochlear implants, as well as on cochlear implant technology. Later in the afternoon, she visited the Mohammed VI Research and Innovation Center, which is part of the Mohammed VI Foundation for Science and Health, and which has a partnership agreement with the Lalla Asmaa Foundation, providing for scientific research on deafness and hearing disorders, with the aim of achieving a comprehensive and early diagnosis based on genetic characteristics. The Center, which includes laboratories in cellular biology and immunology, molecular biology and genomics, next-generation sequencing, and microbiology and infectiology, has conducted research that has led to the discovery of genetic causes of hearing disorders. Nigers government has requested Moroccos help for establishing a national airline carrier during a meeting held lately in Rabat between Moroccan Transport minister Abdessamad Kayouh and his Nigerien peer Abdourahamane Amadou. Niger wants to benefit from Moroccan expertise to establish its national airline, said the Moroccan minister citing the Kingdoms experience in airports modernization and readiness to provide this landlocked African country technical assistance and advanced training. Niger is part of the Sahel countries (including Mali, Chad and Burkina Faso) that have adhered to the initiative launched by King Mohammed VI in 2023 to enable these African landlocked countries have access to the Atlantic Ocean. In February, Niger announced its intention to set up a new airline company and backed the establishment of a common regional airline for member countries of the Alliance of Sahel States (Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger). The goal is to enhance connectivity and economic ties within the Sahel Alliance. The previous flag carrier Niger Airlines was established in 2012 and started operations in 2014. It ceased operations in November 2022 after being temporarily grounded by the Nigerien authorities over safety concerns and has not resumed service since then. Twenty-six years ago, no one would have imagined that Moroccos top exports would be cars. Moroccos GDP, thanks to the Kings far-sighted approach, has more than doubled in a tough environment reaching some $130 billion, thanks to different economic policies spurred by the King, with the industry at its heart. Industry has helped Morocco reduce dependence on the climate-vulnerable farming sector. With an industrial acceleration plan that promoted investments in the automotive and aerospace sector, Morocco managed to offset the impact of drought on growth. This year, despite the sixth consecutive dry year, Moroccos economy is still expected to grow 4% this year, from 3.8% last year, according to the planning agency, which expects a rise in exports of manufactured goods. Automotive In July, Stellantis announced the increase of its production capacity at the Kenitra plant to 534,000, a milestone that together with Renault plants in Tangier and Casablanca will increase Moroccos production to 1 million cars annually. This performance will help Morocco expand the gap with its African competitors south Africa. Morocco is also preparing its automotive sector for electric mobility, attracting investments in the electric battery supply chain. In June, Morocco has officially entered the global electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain with the inauguration of COBCOs lithium-ion battery material plant in Jorf Lasfar, south of Casablanca. Capitalizing on available raw materials, notably phosphates, copper and cobalt, Morocco also builds on its trade deals, skilled work force and expanding automotive sector to attract a growing number of EV battery manufacturers. Besides Cobco, the Moroccan government agreed in 2024 with Chinas Hailiang and Shinzoom to set up two separate plans to produce copper and anodes respectively for a combined total nearing 1 billion dollars in Tanger Tech. The same year, BTR New Material Group also signed a deal with the Moroccan government to set up a cathodes plant, critical to EV battery manufacturing. To attract global manufacturers, the Kingdom built on world-class infrastructure, such as the Tangier Med port- the largest in the Mediterranean and Africa- to allow better access of automotive investors to global markets. Moroccos Free Trade Agreements with major markets in Europe, the Middle East and the US, encouraged further investments by parts manufacturers and electric battery supply chain, positioning the kingdom as one of the most competitive automotive industry destinations, almost on par with China. By 2026, Morocco, already Africas top car producer, would be able to double its current production capacity to 1.5 million cars, according to industry minister. Aerospace Moroccos aerospace industry sector has 142 companies employing over 20,000 people with a total output of $2 billion. The aerospace industry cluster in the country moved from sample wiring industry to producing more sophisticated engine parts. Officials say the country is well-positioned to host a whole airoplane assembly plant, thanks to the existence of suppliers at all levels, providing parts to world giants such as Airbus, Boeing and Safran. Fertilizers Morocco has developed its phosphates-related industries to become the largest fertilizer exporter in Africa. State-owned company, OCP, expects to produce 20 million tonnes of fertilizers by 2027, from 12 million in 2022. To do that, the company is investing in green ammonia and desalination along with the establishment of production and blending units across the continent. Sovereignty In the wake of the Covid pandemic, King Mohammed VI urged industrial sovereignty to ensure availability of vital goods, such as medicine. The country has invested in producing vaccine and vital medicine. Now, 70% of the medicine used in Morocco are locally produced, according to official data. Investments in medicine and vaccine, enable Morocco to build strategic stockpiles and export surplus to African markets, while reducing prices locally to Moroccan patients. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has become the latest battleground in a deepening strategic rivalry between the United States and China over control of critical minerals, as a new US-brokered peace deal with Rwanda raises both hope and concern. Signed in June 2025, the agreement aims to end decades of conflict between the DRC and Rwanda, but also links regional peace to mineral access. In exchange for vague promises of US security support, the deal allows American companies expanded access to copper, cobalt, and lithium vital for green energy and military technologies. The move marks a significant U.S. push to reduce dependence on China, which currently dominates the DRCs mineral sector. Washington has backed bids for major assets like the Etoile and Mutoshi mines and secured a lithium exploration deal through KoBold Metals, a firm supported by Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos. China, seeking to protect its foothold, responded diplomatically, with its ambassador reaffirming Beijings commitment to non-interference and long-term support for Congo. Critics argue that the U.S. approach mirrors earlier resources-for-security deals pioneered by China and Russia, which often eroded African sovereignty and lacked transparency. Minerals are being bartered for security, two experts have warned in a recent opinion piece in Asia Times, pointing to the risks of elite capture, regulatory freezes, and long-term economic dependency. With abundant resources but fragile institutions, the DRC walks a precarious path balancing global powers while striving to maintain control over its own future. Kenya and Uganda have secured a major legal victory after the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) dismissed a $2 billion claim filed by Rift Valley Railways (RVR) consortium over a terminated railway concession. The dispute stemmed from a 25-year agreement signed in 2006, granting RVR the right to manage and operate the 2,350-kilometer Kenya-Uganda railway line. Both governments canceled the deal in 2017, citing RVRs repeated failures to invest in infrastructure, maintain assets, and meet freight targets. Claimants KU Railways Holdings (KURH) and Rift Valley Railways Investments (RVRI) launched arbitration in 2020, alleging wrongful termination and breach of contract. However, the LCIA ruled in favor of Kenya and Uganda, confirming that the states were within their rights to terminate the concession due to non-performance. The tribunal also awarded significant costs to both countries, including KES 950 million (US$ 7.3 million) to Kenya and US$ 3.6 million to Uganda. Kenyan officials hailed the outcome as a win for good governance and a safeguard for public resources. This victory has saved the Republic of Kenya, and by extension the Kenyan taxpayer, from incurring what would otherwise have been a significant financial burden, said Solicitor General Shadrack Mose. The case highlights the importance of enforcing performance standards in public-private partnerships. With this ruling, Kenya and Uganda aim to move forward with new infrastructure investments, including the ongoing development of standard gauge railways to replace aging colonial-era lines. Tripoli, Libya (PANA) The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has congratulated the new Libyan Presidency elected during the session of the High Council of State (HCS) saying it looks forward to constructive engagement with all members to break the stalemate, advance the political process, and end the protracted transitional phases in the North African country In the scorching heat of Moroccos Rif mountains, Abderrahman Talbi tends his cannabis plants without the fear that has haunted farmers here for generations. I can now say I am a cannabis farmer without fear, he tells Reuters. Peace of mind has no price. Two years after Morocco legalized cannabis cultivation for medical and industrial uses, the industry shows both promise and persistent challenges. Legal farmers have surged from 430 in 2023 to approximately 5,000 today, while production skyrocketed fourteen-fold to 4,200 tonnes last year. Yet these impressive numbers tell only part of the story. Moroccos illegal cannabis fields still dwarf the legal sector27,100 hectares versus just 5,800 hectares of licensed cultivation, according to Interior Ministry data. The underground economys grip remains strong, fueled by lucrative European demand for recreational cannabis that Moroccos laws dont address, Reuters commented. Money talks louder than regulations. While legal cooperatives pay farmers 50 dirhams per kilogram after months-long delays, black market resin fetches up to 2,500 dirhams per kilogramcash on delivery. This fifty-fold price difference makes risk-taking attractive, despite authorities seizing 249 tons of illegal resin last year, up 48 percent. Mohamed Guerrouj, heading Moroccos cannabis regulator ANRAC, dismisses calls for recreational legalization. The goal is to develop Moroccos pharmaceutical industry not coffee shops, he told Reuters. Yet without addressing the economic realities driving farmers toward illegality, Moroccos cannabis experiment may struggle to achieve its transformative ambitions in the Rif region. Moroccos economic geography reveals a tale of two countries: thriving coastal hubs generating most national wealth while interior regions struggle with decline, according to new regional accounts from the High Commission for Planning. Casablanca-Settat remains the undisputed economic powerhouse, contributing 31.4 percent of national GDP and over a quarter of household consumption. Yet this dominance masks troubling stagnationthe region managed only 0.2 percent growth in 2022, suggesting even Moroccos economic engine faces headwinds. Meanwhile, Rabat-Sale-Kenitra surges ahead with 5.2 percent growth, powered by public and private services comprising 65 percent of its economy. Further north, Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima leverages its strategic position through Tanger Med portamong Africas busiestand the Mohammed VI Tanger Tech industrial zone, cementing its role in global automotive and textile chains. Tourism drives Marrakech-Safis 4.6 percent expansion, with Marrakech alone capturing nearly one-third of Moroccos tourist nights. Souss-Massa leads all regions at 7.5 percent growth, combining agricultural exports with emerging renewable energy projects. The success stories throw struggling regions into sharp relief. Fes-Meknes contracted 1.9 percent despite cultural heritage assets, while Beni Mellal-Khenifra plummeted 4.7 percent, hampered by weak infrastructure and fragile agriculture. Draa-Tafilalets vast Saharan tourism potential remains largely untapped, constrained by inadequate transport and accommodation. Southern provinces present mixed fortunes: Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab boasts Moroccos highest per-capita GDP through fishing and port investments, while Oriental region battles unemployment and poverty despite hosting 85,000 businesses concentrated in the Oujda-Nador corridor. These disparities challenge Moroccos advanced regionalization model, raising questions about whether decentralization alone can bridge development gaps without targeted interventions to spread prosperity beyond established economic centers. Three months after a massive power outage plunged the Iberian Peninsula into darkness, Portugal unveiled Monday a 400 million plan to reinforce its electrical gridand floated the possibility of connecting to Moroccos power network. Environment Minister Maria da Graca Carvalho announced 31 measures designed to prevent future blackouts, reassuring citizens that not all costs would hit their electricity bills. Part of the financing will come from European funds, she told reporters in Lisbon, acknowledging public concerns about rising energy costs. Regarding the Morocco connection, Carvalho revealed that foreign ministers from both countries have started very preliminary discussions about linking their power grids. We could consider connecting to existing projects. Starting from scratch would certainly be very costly, she noted, suggesting a pragmatic approach to the ambitious cross-strait connection. The blackout that triggered these measures exposed vulnerabilities in Europes interconnected power systems. Spain announced similar grid reinforcement plans, focusing on renewable energy integration and enhanced supervision. For Portugal, which already shares electricity with Spain, a Moroccan link would create an unprecedented intercontinental power bridge. Energy experts see potential benefits: Moroccos growing renewable capacity could complement Portugals needs, while providing the North African nation another export route for its green energy ambitions. However, technical challenges of undersea cables across the Gibraltar Strait and regulatory harmonization between EU and non-EU systems remain formidable obstacles. In her press briefing, the Portuguese Environment Minister said the centerpiece of the planned measures involves expanding electricity storage through battery installations, with tenders expected by 2026. Another 25 million targets critical infrastructure like hospitals, ensuring they can maintain power during emergencies. Grid control systems will also undergo modernization to better manage the increasingly complex energy flows from renewable sources. A major power blackout occurred, on 28 April 2025, across the Iberian Peninsula affecting mainland Portugal and peninsular Spain, where electric power was interrupted for about ten hours in most of the Peninsula and longer in some areas. The power cut caused severe difficulties in telecommunications, transportation systems, and essential sectors such as emergency services. President Abdelmadjid Tebbounes latest visit to Italy was meant to be a diplomatic breakthrough. Instead, it marked yet another chapter in a series of fruitless overtures that have come to define Algerias increasingly desperate foreign policy. Despite multiple visits to Rome in recent years and generous gas deals, Tebboune returned home empty-handed again. The Algerian presidents repeated attempts to sway Italy on the Sahara issue have become almost ritualistic. During the joint press conference in Rome, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune claimed that both Algeria and Italy supported the self-determination of the Sahrawi people. This statement was not only diplomatically presumptuous but also inaccurate. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, visibly uncomfortable, did not endorse that position and reportedly raised her eyebrows in surprise, signaling a clear disavowal of Tebbounes assertion. Each Algerian presidents visit is accompanied by lofty rhetoric, energy agreements, and cultural diplomacy. Yet the outcome remains unchanged: Rome refuses to budge. Italy continues to support a UN-led process and shows increasing sympathy for Moroccos autonomy plan, leaving Algeria diplomatically stranded. This latest failure is particularly glaring given the scale of Algerias energy concessions. In the first two months of 2025 alone, Italy increased its gas imports from Algeria by 31% compared to the same period in 2024. These volumes are part of a broader long-term agreement between ENI and Sonatrach, under which Algeria committed to supply an additional 9 billion cubic meters annually by 20242025 Much of this gas is sold at discounted prices, a legacy of contracts signed during the height of Europes energy crisis. However, Italy has taken the gas without altering its political stance. Tebboune is squandering Algerias resources to buy the status quo of the few remaining western states, who wouldnt have cared for ties with Algeria, if it was not for gas. Algerias gas diplomacy is no longer a tool of influence. It has become a crutch. The regime is not using energy to build alliances, but to delay defections. The goal is not to win Italys support for the Polisario Front, but to prevent it from openly backing Morocco following the example of the US, France, Spain, the UK, Arab monarchies and most African states. Demise of gas diplomacy Worse still, the outlook for Algerias gas exports is dimming. Despite ambitious targets, infrastructure bottlenecks and limited pipeline capacity are preventing Algeria from delivering the promised volumes. The Transmed pipeline, which connects Algeria to Italy via Tunisia, has a technical capacity of 108.7 million cubic meters per day, but actual flows rarely exceed 85 million due to grid constraints and domestic absorption Even with increased upstream production, Algeria is unlikely to meet its export commitments, let alone expand them. At the same time, global gas prices are softening, and European demand is stabilizing. The urgency that once gave Algeria leverage is fading. With competition from LNG suppliers and a growing shift toward renewables, Algerias window of opportunity is closing fast. Its reliance on long-term contracts at discounted rates may soon become a liability rather than an asset. Tebbounes repeated failures in Italy are emblematic of a broader malaise. Isolated on the international stage, facing economic pressures at home, and unable to adapt to a changing geopolitical landscape, Algeria is running out of cards to play. The presidents reliance on gas discounts and symbolic gestures is not diplomacy. It is actually a sort of damage control. A wiseman should have told Tebboune that he could visit Rome as many times as he likes. He can offer cheap gas and grand speeches. But if he lacks vision, credibility, and allies, he will always return empty-handed. Protesters in Tunis called their country an open air prison due to Kais Saieds authoritarian regime which sent scores to jails on made-up charges to silence dissent. As the democratic achievements of the Jasmine revolution become a thing of the past, Kais Saied strengthened his grip on state institutions and has been using the judiciary to issue hefty sentences against opposition figures. International media, including reputable news agencies such as Reuters, documented the erosion of civil society in the country, where activists are deterred by the return of a police state. Under the slogan The Republic is a large prison, protesters marched last weeek in one of the largest protests in the country in recent months, demanding the release of jailed opposition leaders, journalists, and activists. No fear, no terror streets belong to the people and The people want the fall of the regime, were among the slogans chanted by thousands of brave Tunisians unwilling to give in to Kais Saied authoritarian backpedaling. In 2022, Saied dissolved the independent Supreme Judicial Council and sacked dozens of judges, a move the opposition said was aimed to cement one-man rule. Most prominent opposition leaders are in prison, including Rached Ghannouchi, head of the Islamist Ennahda party, and Abir Moussi, leader of the Free Constitutional Party. They are among dozens of politicians, lawyers, and journalists facing lengthy prison sentences under anti-terrorism and conspiracy laws. Tunisias return to authoritarianism was facilitated by a holy alliance between the Tunisian president and the Algerian regime. Kais Siaed has been replicating the tactics of the Algerian regime in cracking down on dissidents using terrorism charges. Meanwhile, the economic outlook worsens amid austerity measures and no access to foreign debt, leaving Tunisia on the brink of large-scale unrest. Just last week, Prime Minister Netanyahu recalled his Israeli negotiating team from Doha - which is certainly not a first instance - as talks broke down, also after the US representative mentioned dissatisfaction with Hamas' position. On Sunday night, the Houthis of Yemen declared it will target merchant ships belonging to any company that does business with Israeli ports. This part is nothing new, but what is a renewed escalation is that the Houthis' statement made clear this will be regardless of nationality as part of the next phase of its operations. This Red Sea war has been going for a long time, and has featured direct ballistic missile attacks on Tel Aviv - which have been waning in the last weeks, but the resulting shipping disruptions have wreaked havoc on a vital global transit point through which an estimated $1 trillion in goods usually passes each year. The Houthi statement said they had decided to escalate their military support operations and begin implementing the fourth phase of the naval blockade against Israel. This also as international reports have acknowledged rising famine and deaths from hunger in the Gaza Strip. The fresh statement warns the Iran-backed militants would target "all ships belonging to any company that deals with the ports of the Israeli enemy, regardless of the nationality of that company, and in any location within the reach of our armed forces." This is regardless of any final destination, it warned. International companies and governments must pressure Israel to stop the war in Gaza and lift its blockade on the Palestinian territory "if they want to avoid this escalation" - the statement warns further. Escalation has indeed been on the rise, despite months ago Trump ordering the US Navy to wind down and withdraw from its war with the Houthis, while pressuring the Europeans to take a more active posture in the theatre. Already in July, the Houthis have attacked and sunk two Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned bulk carriers identified as the Magic Seas and the Eternity C. The Houthis have boasted of these assaults by issuing high-production quality films detailing the operations, which even involved boarding the vessels. These were deadly attacks and have resulted in four crew members dead and 11 more taken captive - though thankfully 22 crew members of the Magic Seas were able to be rescued. As for the latest round of failed negotiations hosted in Qatar, reports indicated that Hamas offered to trade 10 Israeli hostages for 200 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences. Israel reportedly pushed for a 2-kilometer demilitarized buffer inside the Strip, while Hamas is said to have countered with one kilometer. All of this may be moot from the start, given much more land mass has already been utterly destroyed, and Israel is believed to be paving the way for eventual new settlements. The fiery and loudly-issued new threat against Red Sea shipping: ?? Yemen announces new military ESCALATION Will target ALL ships tied to companies working with Israeli ports in ANY location Regardless of nationality regardless of destination Global firms WARNED: cut ties with Israel or face consequences Houthi spox via RT pic.twitter.com/4zSosbGcyN Tony (@Cyberspec1) July 27, 2025 The Israeli government has meanwhile opted for a military solution, and the complete eradication of Gaza. From the start Hamas has insisted on the removal of all Israeli military troops, which has been a non-starter for Netanyahu. By and large, Washington has stuck by its closest Mideast ally, amid growing international criticisms linked to tens of thousands of civilian deaths, and a nightmarish humanitarian crisis. President Trump on Monday in comments from Scotland issued a rare admission that Gazans are indeed starving, and that we need to "feed the kids". By Zerohedge More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Guyana has been the hot new spot for oil exploration in recent years, following several big discoveries. Multiple oil majors are investing in operations in the South American country, as they aim to pump low-carbon oil in a bid to continue developing their fossil fuel production with support from governments and consumers. In July, Chevron entered Guyana, alongside Exxon and other oil majors. In mid-July, the U.S. oil major Chevron announced it had completed the $53-billion acquisition of Hess Corporation following the win of an arbitration case against Exxon over Hesss Guyana assets. The deal, which would provide Chevron with stakes in the Bakken in North Dakota, as well as a 30 percent stake in Guyanas Stabroek offshore oil field, had been in the works since 2023. Exxon operates the Stabroek block and holds a 45 percent stake, with Chinas CNOOC holding the remaining 25 percent stake. The takeover was delayed for two years as Exxon and CNOOC claimed they had the right of first refusal for Hesss stake under the terms of a joint operating agreement (JOA) for the Stabroek block. Hess and Chevron countered by saying the JOA did not apply in the case of a full corporate merger, with the court eventually ruling in favour of Chevron. Chevron, based in Houston, is the second-largest oil company in the U.S. after ExxonMobil. The acquisition of Hess will make Chevron more competitive both in the U.S. and abroad. Upon the announcement of the takeover and Chevrons new stake in Guyana, Exxon responded positively, after its initial reluctance to share the Stabroek block with the oil major. We welcome Chevron to the venture and look forward to continued industry-leading performance and value creation in Guyana for all parties involved, an Exxon spokesman saidin a statement. Chevron will now take over Hesss assets in the U.S. and Guyana. The combination enhances and extends our growth profile well into the next decade, Chevrons CEO Mike Wirth said about the completion of the acquisition. Until the recent acquisition, it was highly uncertain where Chevrons domestic oil production was going to come from. The amount Chevron can potentially extract from its oil and gas fields fell to 9.8 billion barrels at the end of last year, the lowest point in at least a decade. Following the acquisition, Chevrons production volumes are expected to reach around 4.31 million bpd by 2030, compared to 3.3 million bpd in 2024. As President Donald Trump encourages higher levels of oil and gas output from U.S. companies in the coming years, several oil firms have assessed the potential for expanding operations, both at home and abroad. By solidifying its stake in Guyana, Chevron can now be sure of the future of its oil supply, as it will reap the rewards of the shared production operations of the South American countrys vast untapped reserves. David Byrns, a portfolio manager at American Century Investments, explained that [Chevrons] acquisition plugs a free cash flow hole that Chevron had looming at the end of this decade into the 2030s. Byrns said that it was previously uncertain how Chevron would maintain free cash flow. Guyana presents a great new oil perspective from companies looking to tap into untouched reserves, as other oilfields in several parts of the world mature. In recent years, companies operating in Guyana have made several promising discoveries. Exxon began exploratory drilling with CNOOC and Hess around a decade ago, and it now estimates Guyanas oil reserves to stand at around 11 billion barrels. Exxon began producing oil from these reserves in 2019 and now has an average output of 650,000 bpd. By 2027, the company expects to achieve an output of 1.3 million bpd, and by 2030, this figure should rise to 1.7 million bpd, which would make the tiny country of Guyana one of the worlds largest oil producers per capita. Chevron had faced months of challenges up to the acquisition, which resulted in widespread global layoffs. The oil firm has experienced serious safety failings in its Angola operations. It also lost oil exports from Venezuela, as the state-owned company PDVSA suspended most of the loading windows it had assigned to Chevron in April and ordered the return of some oil cargoes bound for the U.S. due to payment uncertainty related to the enforcement of U.S. sanctions. These disruptions have caused Chevron shares to fall by 7.5 percent over the last year. Chevrons acquisition of Hess will allow the U.S. oil major to pump oil domestically and abroad for decades to come, should the global demand for fossil fuels remain high enough to warrant it. Its new assets will also help the firm to become more competitive with other oil majors, such as Exxon, after several months of challenges and stock price decline. By Felicity Bradstock for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Qatars energy minister has repeatedly warned that QatarEnergy will consider alternative markets outside the EU if the bloc continues to demand net-zero plans, potentially leading to a significant loss of LNG supply for Europe. The European Union this year saw record-breaking LNG imports over the first half of the year. In a couple of years, however, this might change. Because the EU wants both LNG and strict emission reduction commitments from its producers. And they are not happy about it. Qatar is one of the biggest suppliers of liquefied natural gas to the European Union. Last year, the EU adopted something called the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive with the purpose of ensuring that companies in scope identify and address adverse human rights and environmental impacts of their actions inside and outside Europe. The second part of that statement refers to the EU requirement that companies above a certain size that do business with members of the bloc must put in place a net-zero plan and follow it strictly. If they do not, the EU could fine them with a sum equal to 5% of their annual global turnover. Given that the directive concerns companies with an annual turnover of over 450 million euro, or $350 million, the sum could be quite hefty. In December last year, after the passing of the directive, Qatars energy minister Saad al-Kaabi put things plainly, speaking to the Financial Times. If the case is that I lose 5 per cent of my generated revenue by going to Europe, I will not go to Europe . . . Im not bluffing, al-Kaabi said. Five per cent of generated revenue of QatarEnergy means 5 per cent of generated revenue of the Qatar state. This is the peoples money . . . so I cannot lose that kind of money and nobody would accept losing that kind of money. Qatar has accounted for between 12 and 14% of the European Unions LNG imports annually since 2022, when Russian pipeline gas flows were slashed. These are not volumes that the EU could lose without any dire consequences, especially after its 18th package of anti-Russia sanctions that specifically target natural gas, aiming to completely cut off supply from the country. The decision-makers in Brussels appear to realize this, which is why, following al-Kaabis warning, discussions began of making changes to the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive. The discussions quickly resulted in amendments to the original directive that simplified the reporting requirements and reduced their scopeincluding emission-related requirementsand a delay to the entry into effect of the directive, from 2027 to 2028. This, however, was not enough for the worlds third-largest exporter of liquefied natural gas. In May this year, the Qatari energy minister wrote a letter to the Belgian government, in which he essentially repeated his earlier warning, saying Qatar will stop doing LNG business with the EU if it continues demanding a net-zero plan from QatarEnergy. Put simply, if further changes are not made to CSDDD, the State of Qatar and QatarEnergy will have no choice but to seriously consider alternative markets outside of the EU for our LNG and other products, which offer a more stable and welcoming business environment, al-Kaabi wrote, as quoted by Reuters, which reported about the existence of the letter earlier this month. Neither the State of Qatar nor QatarEnergy have any plans to achieve net zero in the near future, al-Kaabi also wrote, going on to add, in an annex to the letter, a suggestion that the EU remove the whole net-zero section from the due diligence directive. This puts the EU at a major crossroads. On the one hand, it really needs Qatari LNGunless it wants to become almost entirely dependent on the United States for its gas supply, which some would consider unwise. On the other, the current EU leadership has made it clear that a transition to net zero is its top priority, with the possible exception of funding the Ukrainian government. However, it cant have both Qatari LNG and net zero, so it will be forced to compromise one of these. The EU imported 75 billion cu m of natural gas as LNG over the first half of the year. This was an increase of a substantial 40% on the first half of 2024, European Gas Hub reported earlier this month. The reasons: higher demand, higher gas exports to Ukraine, and an urgent need to refill depleted winter storage facilities. Almost all of this additional import volume90%came from the United States. However, deepening its dependence on U.S. producers of liquefied natural gas means permanently high energy bills for all businesses depending on gas-generated electricity in any way. The EU has been trying to reduce these bills to avoid a complete industrial meltdown across the bloc. Ultimately, it comes down to a choice of having an industrial sector at all or having a net-zero economy. This is the choice that the EU is facing at a time when it vitally needs its industrial sector, or at least that part of it that makes steel and turns this steel into weapons. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com DUBAI, UAE, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA), a flagship non-profit founded by Bybit and championing responsible innovation, took center stage at the 20th anniversary of the United Nations Internet Governance Forum (UN IGF) in Oslo. In collaboration with the Singapore Internet Governance Forum (SGIGF), BGA co-hosted an exclusive, high-level dinner titled "Bridging the Future: Blockchain, Governance & Global Cooperation" at Oslo's historic Akershus Fortress. Caption (from left to right): Una Wang, CoFounder of SGIGF; His Excellency Dharambeer Gokhool, President of the Republic of Mauritius; First Lady Brinda Gokhool of Mauritius; Henry Wang, CoFounder of SGIGF; National Deputy of Argentina Pamela Calletti; Senator of Chile Kenneth Pugh; Director of Global Affairs at the Blockchain for Good Alliance, Glenn Tan. Held as an official side event supported by the UN IGF Secretariat, the dinner brought together global leaders from governments, multilateral organizations, blockchain, and AI to promote dialogue around inclusive, ethical, and interoperable digital infrastructure. The event was led by Glenn Tan, Director of Global Affairs at BGA, and co-organized with SGIGF's Founding Members Henry Wang and Una Wang. Distinguished guests included His Excellency Dharambeer Gokhool, President of Mauritius; National Deputy of Argentina Pamela Calletti; Senator Kenneth Pugh of Chile; as well as representatives from various UN agencies and national parliaments. Central to the evening's discussion was blockchain's transformative role in shaping a trusted and collaborative global digital ecosystem. "As we stand at the crossroads of a digital future, Mauritius reaffirms its commitment to an ethical, inclusive, and rights-based digital governance model. Events like the IGF 2025 remind us that trust, collaboration, and shared values must be the cornerstones of our collective journey in the age of AI and emerging technologies. The IGF 2025 was not just a conference it was a collective call to conscience," said His Excellency the President of the Republic of Mauritius, Dharambeer Gokhool. BGA's Glenn Tan emphasized the urgency of forward-looking infrastructure: "As blockchain transitions from hype cycles to hard infrastructure across the internet, we must ensure that systems built today serve the collective good of tomorrow. This gathering was a symbol of that shared commitment to a multistakeholder future, rooted in both trust and innovation." Adding a regional perspective, SGIGF Founding Member Henry Wang noted: "As the UN IGF celebrates 20 years of shaping global internet governance, this dinner was a timely reminder that the next 20 must be co-created across sectors, systems, and sovereignties. Blockchain, when aligned with responsible governance and AI ethics, can become the connective tissue of a truly inclusive, decentralized, and intelligent internet." The evening reaffirmed BGA's mission to advance cross-border collaboration and responsible digital transformation. These conversations will continue at the inaugural Singapore IGF Conference on October 1, 2025, where regional stakeholders will lead the global dialogue on inclusive and resilient internet governance. #Bybit / #TheCryptoArk / #BGA About Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA) The Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA) is a long-term collaborative non-profit initiative with key partners with the main aim to contribute to societal good by using blockchain technology to solve real world problems. By convening leaders, innovators, and organisations from across the blockchain community, BGA seeks to drive innovation, collaboration, and action towards a more sustainable and equitable world. For more information Email: [email protected] Website: www.chainforgood.org Twitter: www.x.com/chainforgood SOURCE Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA); Bybit Despite Trump's threats of tariffs, experts believe Russia is unlikely to change its approach to the conflict, especially given its economic ties with China and India. Analysts suggest that Putin is waiting to understand Trump's next actions, as the US president's unpredictability makes it difficult for Moscow to plan its response. President Trump's shortened deadline for a Russia-Ukraine cease-fire has been met with silence from the Kremlin and an increase in attacks on Ukrainian cities. US President Donald Trumps announcement that he was shortening the deadline for Russia to agree to a cease-fire in Ukraine from 50 days to 10-12 days has been met with near-silence from the Kremlin and a fresh wave of deadly attacks on Ukrainian cities, suggesting that Moscow may be ready to call his bluff. Trump made the comments on July 28, during a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland. He was referring to an ultimatum he gave earlier this month for Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to a cease-fire or face very severe tariffs. At the time, Trump also suggested tariff hikes for countries that purchase Russian energy exports. Putin's spokesman Dmitri Peskov gave a terse response on July 29, saying the Kremlin had "taken note" of Trump's comments without elaborating. He added that he would not comment on another Trump remark that he was "no longer interested" in talks with Putin. The Kremlin's taciturn response speaks volumes, according to political analyst Boris Pastukhov. Putin is waiting, he told RFE/RLs Current Time. To know what to say next, he needs to understand exactly how Trump plans to behave. Trump has a track record of shifting deadlines, particularly when it comes to tariffs. On this occasion, he said he was shortening the timeframe because when you deal with someone long enough, you know what theyre going to do or not do. By contrast, its not only unclear whether Trump will again shift the deadline. Its also not certain what measures he would impose if he decided to act. Tariffs on Russian goods would have little impact, since Russia exports so little to the United States anyway. Its a storm the Kremlin could weather. Secondary sanctions would significantly raise the stakes not only in Trumps dealings with Putin, but also in his relations with countries like China and India, which have been helping finance Russia's war on Ukraine through the purchasing of Russian oil. Pastukhov said Putin was now deliberately keeping his cards close to his chest and waiting for Trump to play his. Trump isnt just unpredictable to ordinary people -- hes unpredictable to the Kremlin as well. They dont know what to expect from him, so theyre keeping their next move in reserve," he said. Amid the Kremlins silence, Russian media and lesser officials have been repeating phrases of stock defiance. Komsomolskaya Pravda newspaper said Trumps approach might be good for dealing with regional conflicts but could not be applied to Russia or China. Likewise, former president Dmitri Medvedev, who is currently deputy head of the countrys Security Council, wrote that Russia is not Israel or Iran and warned Trump against playing the ultimatum game with Russia. When Trump said that he was shortening the deadline, he noted that he was very disappointed with Putin, words he also used when he announced his original ultimatum. At the time, analysts also said that they did not expect Putin to change tack as a result of Trumps threats. China and India are the top two recipients of Russian energy exports, and the expectation that they will pressure Putin to end his war in the next 50 days seems naive, Michael McFaul, a political science professor at Stanford University and the US ambassador to Russia in 2012-14, wrote in Time Magazine. To me, its clear that Putin does not want any cease-fire, at least not until he gains control over all the regions that are defined as Russian in his version of the constitution, Dmitry Gudkov, a former opposition lawmaker in the Russian parliament, told Current Time on July 16. Indeed, Trumps latest comments were followed by another night of air attacks on targets in Ukraine that included a hospital in Kamyanske and a prison in the Zaporizhzhya region where at least 17 people were killed. Russian media on July 28 continued to emphasize that Russia would keep pushing on the battlefield. Amid Kremlin silence, both Russias actions and its public discourse have been unchanged by the new ultimatum. By RFE/RL More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The $4.6 billion project, expected to take about five years to complete, is strategically important for Uzbekistan to reduce its reliance on northern and southern trade routes and break out of its geographic isolation. This 400-mile (650-kilometer) railway aims to connect Uzbekistan to Pakistani ports, significantly cutting transit times from 35 days to approximately four and increasing trade flows from 300,000 tons to an initial 3 million tons. Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan have signed a framework agreement to advance the construction of a trans-Afghan railway, a project that has been discussed for eight years. After eight years of talk, regional governments are taking concrete steps toward building a trans-Afghan railroad from doubly landlocked Uzbekistan to Pakistani ports after all three countries signed a framework agreement. The project, first pitched in 2017, would see rails extend about 400 miles, or 650 kilometers, from the Uzbek border at Termez southeast across Afghanistan past Mazar-i-Sharif and Kabul to the Pakistani border at Parachinar, where it will connect with the Pakistani rail network. Pakistani officials have pledged to enhance the rails south to Karachi. The project is a key piece of President Shavkat Mirziyoyevs efforts to break out of geographic isolation and reduce its reliance on the northern trade route to international markets through Russia and south through Iran. More details on the project have emerged in recent days. Uzbek Deputy Transportation Minister Jasurbek Choriev, in an interview broadcast on Uzbek television, described the trans-Afghan project the countrys second most strategically important infrastructure project behind the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway, which broke ground last year. The project will cost $4.6 billion and could take about 5 years to complete, he said. Earlier this year, the Uzbek Transportation Ministry said construction would start this year. When complete, the project could cut transit times from Pakistan from 35 days to about four and increase trade flows from 300,000 tons currently taken by truck across Afghanistan to 3 million tons initially, according to Choriev. Between 2035 and 2040 that total could rise to 15 to 20 million tons, he added. Choriev said the framework agreement provides for joint engineering and economic feasibility studies for the project, a first and a very important step. Weve long strived and prepared for this. The framework agreement will give all sides the opportunity to take practical steps, he added. The deputy minister also acknowledged the challenges the project faces, starting with geography. The line will traverse rugged terrain and require the construction of more than 300 bridges and five tunnels and theyre long tunnels, Choriev said. Security too remains a concern in both Afghanistan and Pakistan, but Choriev said Afghanistans Taliban leadership has provided security guarantees. The ministers of transport and infrastructure of the three countries signed the framework agreement at a ceremony in Kabul on July 17, representing another boost in warming relations between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan. For instance, Mirziyoyev met for talks with Afghan Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Abdul Ghani Baradar on the sidelines of a summit in Azerbaijan in early July, according to Kun, an Uzbek outlet. And, the two countries signed an agreement on the joint management of the Amu Darya River in late April, the Uzbek outlet Anhor reported. Financing for the Afghan rail project is another hurdle, and the three countries hope to rely on a mix funding from national, international and private sources. Weve already started to receive reactions, started to receive comments, telephone calls. Interest is already being shown, Choriev said. Russia strongly backs the project, hoping to expand its own north-south trade network, which the Kremlin sees as a counterweight to US, European and Chinese efforts to build up the Middle Corridor. Russia and Uzbekistan signed an agreement on April 8 to work together on the initial stages of the project, the Russian news agency TASS reported. Russia became the first country in the world to recognize the Taliban government in Afghanistan on July 4. Despite growing diplomatic relations, the Uzbeks have indicated they are not quite ready, Kun reported in early June. There are other rail projects in the works for Afghanistan. A different trans-Afghan corridor would run from the Turkmen border and eventually to the Pakistani coast. The Turkmen and Kazakh governments are pushing that route, with the later having committed $500 million to build that line as far as Herat, Kursiv, a Kazakh outlet, reported in April. Iran is already building a line from its border to Herat. By Alexander Thompson via Eurasianet.org More Top Reads From Oilprice.com State-controlled natural gas firm GAIL (India) is looking to swap six U.S.-origin LNG cargoes with six cargoes for delivery to India in a tender running until August 6, industry sources told Reuters on Tuesday. GAIL (India) is offering cargoes loading every other month in 2026, beginning in February and ending in December, on a free-on-board (FOB) basis from the U.S. export terminals at Sabine Pass or Cove Point, one of Reuters sources said. In exchange for these cargoes the Indian company is looking for six deliveries to India on a delivered ex-ship (DES) basis for the same months. GAIL, the biggest natural gas distributor in India, has also reportedly started discussions about buying LNG from the proposed $44-billion Alaska LNG project. The potential deal to purchase LNG from the project is part of Indias push to buy and pledge to buy increased volumes of U.S. energy products and thus reduce its trade surplus with America and avoid steep tariffs. The cost of supply from Alaska LNG will be the crucial factor in GAILs decision whether to commit to a long-term offtake deal. Energy companies are ready to commit to buying $115 billion worth of LNG from Alaska once President Trumps pet energy project gets done, the company in charge of the project, Glenfarne, said last month, noting that as many as 50 companies have expressed formal interest. U.S. officials toured Asia earlier this year in search of potential Asian investors in the LNG project estimated at $44 billion. The LNG export facility is strongly supported by the Trump Administration, which has also been pressing Japan and South Korea to buy more LNG as a way to reduce Americas trade deficit with its Asian allies. The Alaska LNG project is designed to deliver North Slope natural gas to Alaskans and export LNG to U.S. allies across the Pacific. An 800-mile pipeline is planned to transport the gas from the production centers in the North Slope to south-central Alaska for exports. In addition, multiple gas interconnection points will ensure meeting in-state gas demand. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Pressed on whether new sanctions on Russian oil could hurt the global market, President Trump brushed it off on Tuesday: I dont worry about it. We have so much oil in our country. Well just step it up, even further. Its a confident linebut critics argue that its not exactly in sync with how the U.S. oil patch is operating in 2025. So unless there are external changes to the US oil industry, the amount of oil that lies beneath the US may not turn into above-ground barrels. For all the criticism, though, US oil production is still strong. The U.S. is pumping about 13.2 million barrels per day, with nearly half of that coming from the Permian Basin. Analysts mostly agree that US oil output is expected to rise only modestly through 2026. But instead of stepping on the gas, most operators are riding the brakes. The latest Dallas Fed energy survey shows rising uncertainty among drillers. The average breakeven price for new wells in the Permian now sits around $64 a barrel. With WTI bouncing between $65 and $70 lately, the math doesnt exactly scream expansion. Meanwhile, the Baker Hughes rig count tells its own story. The number of active oil rigs in the U.S. has fallen to 415, down seven in just the past week. The Permian lost three rigs, bringing it to its lowest count since 2021. Companies are reluctant to sink fresh capital into drilling when Wall Street wants dividends, not growth. Even with roughly 44 billion barrels of proved oil reserves, tapping them isnt as simple as flipping a switch. It takes infrastructure, permitting, labor, capital, and, most of all, pricing that justifies the risk. Trumps betthat American producers can fill the gap if Russian supply is squeezedassumes a level of flexibility the current market isnt showing. Theres oil in the ground, sure. But whether it comes out fast enough, or profitably enough, is another question entirely. By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Hours after meeting with UKs Prime Keir Starmer, U.S. President Donald Trump hit out at the high taxes on the North Sea oil industry in yet another criticism of Britains energy policies. North Sea Oil is a TREASURE CHEST for the United Kingdom. The taxes are so high, however, that it makes no sense, President Trump posted on Truth Social after visiting Scotland and Aberdeenshire, the heart of the UK oil and gas industry. They have essentially told drillers and oil companies that, we dont want you. Incentivize the drillers, FAST. A VAST FORTUNE TO BE MADE for the UK, and far lower energy costs for the people! President Trump added. This isnt the first time President Trump has criticized the energy policy of the United Kingdom. Since winning the election in November, he has repeatedly called for the UK to incentivize oil and gas production and get rid of wind farms. Starmers ruling Labour Party last autumn raised the windfall tax on UK North Sea operators to 38% from 35%, effective November 1, 2024. The tax will now expire on March 31, 2030, a year later than the previous tax regime. The government also removed the 29% investment allowance. With this policy, the effective total tax rate on the oil and gas operators in the UK North Sea was raised to 78%, which is one of the highest in the world. The UKs Energy Profits Levy (EPL), as the windfall tax is officially known, will remain in place until 2030. The government has launched a consultation on what type of tax regime should come next. Since the tax was initially introduced by the Conservative government at the height of the energy crisis in 2022, oil and gas companies operating in the UK North Sea have been calling for certainty in the regulatory and tax framework. Recent changes in policies and the rising taxes have driven away operators, who say that a lack of North Sea investments would only make the UK more dependent on oil and gas imports. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Turkey wants Iraq to ensure that the oil pipeline from the semi-autonomous Iraqi region of Kurdistan to the Turkish port of Ceyhan on the Mediterranean is utilized to its capacity as Ankara and Baghdad are discussing terms of extending the pipeline agreement expiring next year. This pipeline has a capacity of almost 1.5 million barrels per day. There's no flow at the moment. Even when it did flow, it was never at full capacity, Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar said, as carried by Reuters. Turkey is proposing expanding the pipeline to fields in southern Iraq, according to the Turkish energy minister. It (the pipeline) doesn't have to be filled entirely with oil from Iraq. To reach those figures, the pipeline needs to reach the south anyway, Bayraktar was quoted as saying. Turkey last week signaled it will seek to renegotiate the decades-long agreement with Iraq for the pipeline carrying oil from Kurdistan to Ceyhan, flows on which have been suspended for more than two years. The Turkey-Iraq Crude Oil Pipeline Agreement for the Kirkuk to Ceyhan line expires on July 27, 2026, according to a Turkish decision published in the Official Gazette. Turkey seeks to negotiate the agreement, which was first signed in 1973, an unnamed senior Turkish official told Reuters last week. A new and vibrant phase for the Iraq-Turkey pipeline will benefit both countries and the region as a whole, according to the Turkish official. Turkey has also proposed expanding the pipeline deal to include energy cooperation in oil, gas, electricity, and petrochemicals. Its clear that the country is unhappy with the underutilization of the pipeline, flows on which were suspended in March 2023, due to a dispute over who should authorize the Kurdish exports. Despite numerous assurances of a restart of crude flows on the pipeline, it remains halted amid ongoing disputes. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Australias energy major Woodside has taken over the operatorship of the Bass Strait oil and gas assets that were previously operated by Exxon. The two have a 50:50 partnership in the portfolio, which includes production and processing operations. The change in operatorship will result in synergy savings of over $60 million, Woodside said. The company added it plans to boost natural gas production from the assets, to deliver it to its domestic market. Additional gas supplies to the domestic Australian market are fast becoming critical, after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission warned in June that a shortage of gas for the east coast of the country was about to emerge earlier than previously expected. The east coast gas supply outlook for 2025 and 2026 has deteriorated despite an easing in gas prices in the second half of 2024, the ACCC said last month, adding that Concerningly, supply into the domestic market has fallen since that time and gas is increasingly being sold on a short-term basis, posing challenges for gas users who need longer-term certainty for their businesses. The Albanese government, meanwhile, said it was considering creating a gas reserve to help avoid shortages during periods of heightened demand for energy. The Bass Strait production assets can cover 40% of demand on Australias east coast. The Bass Strait is the oldest Australian offshore oil and gas operation. Production there began in 1969, and since then, the deposit has yielded over 11 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and more than 5 billion barrels of crude oil in sales, according to Woodside Energy. Currently, the Bass Strait is the largest supplier of gas to the eastern states, including Queensland, New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory, Northern Territory, and South Australia. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com China speeds up sci-tech, industrial innovation integration to steer high-quality development Xinhua) 08:15, July 29, 2025 A staff member debugs a humanoid robot at a robot company in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, June 25, 2025. (Xinhua/Li An) * China has recently accelerated the integration of sci-tech innovation with industrial innovation, demonstrating remarkable achievements in pursuing high-quality development. * The secret behind the innovation boom lies in China's robust industrial ecosystem, which is built on a policy framework to improve relevant services and help translate patents into products. * Going forward, China will strengthen the principal position of enterprises in sci-tech innovation, thereby creating a stronger synergy between scientific and industrial innovation. BEIJING, July 28 (Xinhua) -- In a Beijing medical device company, a surgical robot carefully peeled the shell of a raw quail egg without breaking the inner membrane. Meanwhile, in a commercial space facility, engineers were using 3D printing technology to produce rocket components. More than 2,000 kilometers away in south China's Guangdong Province, underwater robots can conduct equipment maintenance and emergency operations, while drones have achieved 24-hour ultra-long flight under stable power conditions. These scenes capture China's recent acceleration in integrating sci-tech innovation with industrial innovation, demonstrating remarkable achievements in pursuing high-quality development. An intelligent underwater robot is tested at a provincial institute of intelligent robotics in Dongguan, south China's Guangdong Province, June 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Deng Hua) From January to May 2025, the number of China's effective invention patent applications reached nearly 5 million, up 12.8 percent year on year, while the revenue of major emerging service enterprises with strategic importance increased almost 10 percent. The value-added industrial output of major high-tech manufacturers increased by 9.5 percent in the first half. What propelled this impressive progress? And what future actions will be taken to promote such integration? In the latest episode of China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency, industrial and science officials, a national innovation center director, and a co-founder of a high-tech firm shared their insights. INNOVATION INTEGRATION IN FULL SWING For Liu Qing, director of the National Innovation Center par Excellence (NICE), a Chinese institution focused on transforming and industrializing scientific advancements, this year has been exceptionally busy so far. Over the past months, the NICE has hosted science and innovation forums in countries including Denmark and Australia, and added 11 new overseas strategic partners in the first half of 2025, bringing the total number of its international partners close to 100. "The market prospects for industrial development in China are indeed very attractive to overseas scientists," said Liu while speaking at the roundtable. "China's influence as a significant global innovation hub has continued to rise, accelerating its transformation from a participant and contributor to a pioneer and leader in global science and technology," said Qin Haoyuan, an official with the Ministry of Science and Technology. In sectors spanning quantum technology, life sciences and artificial intelligence, China has seen significant breakthroughs, with many industries leading the world, Qin told the roundtable. The country's total research and development (R&D) investment now ranks second globally, according to him. Enterprises play a key role in driving innovation, with their R&D expenditure and personnel both accounting for over 75 percent of national totals. A 3D-printed component of a fuel storage tank for carrier rocket is exhibited at TCT Asia 2025 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in Shanghai, east China, March 17, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhang Jiansong) According to Gao Qianfeng, co-founder and vice president of GalaxySpace, a Beijing-based commercial space firm, the secret behind turning scientific breakthroughs into commercialized products lies in China's robust industrial ecosystem. Noting that the space firms' supply chain spans over 1,000 partners across enterprises, universities, and research institutions, Gao said navigating this extensive ecosystem requires deep collaboration. "Such open collaboration creates catalytic chemistry between labs and factories," he said. A POLICY-BACKED ECOSYSTEM Behind this pro-innovation system was the establishment of a policy framework that the Chinese government built to improve relevant services and help translate patents into products. In May of this year, China released a guideline on accelerating the high-quality development of the science and technology services sector, which outlined specific tasks across key areas, including R&D, technology transfer and commercialization, business incubation, and technology promotion. "The science and technology service industry is a key support for promoting deep tech-industrial integration and developing new quality productive forces," said Gan Xiaobin, an official with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Gan said the ministry has worked in areas including building innovation platforms, strengthening market players, promoting major sci-tech programs, establishing standards for emerging sectors, and optimizing ecosystems through talent programs and financial support. As one of the pro-innovation platforms, NICE, established in 2021, has helped leading tech firms meet their innovation demands, including addressing issues related to environmental protection and digitalization. "Up till now, over 500 leading enterprises are willing to work with us, and the most remarkable thing is that we have built a team capable of dealing with enterprises -- the tech managers," said Liu, noting that the center has worked with these firms on tech roadmaps, upstream and downstream companies, and future strategies. Meanwhile, the science and technology ministry also steered reforms such as empowering researchers with ownership rights to their work-related scientific achievements as well as piloting evaluation mechanisms that match different types of research outcomes. Qin said the science and technology ministry has supported enterprises in undertaking major national scientific research tasks, with improved tax policies aimed at encouraging greater R&D spending. Leading tech firms are encouraged to lead the formation of innovation consortia with universities, research institutes, and small and medium-sized enterprises, and to build high-level scientific and technological innovation platforms, he noted. Robots work at Xiaomi's automobile factory in Beijing, capital of China, June 16, 2025. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong) Going forward, officials from the two ministries pledged to strengthen the principal position of enterprises in scientific and technological innovation, thereby building a stronger synergy between scientific and industrial innovation. Gan said that for the next stage, he expected enterprises to have more say in government decision-making concerning innovation by inviting more experts from enterprises to participate in national projects, guideline formulation, and project evaluations. The government would also strive to build a financial system that is compatible with sci-tech innovation, improve the national innovation policy system, and foster an open environment for sci-tech innovation with global competitiveness, according to Qin. "Sci-tech innovation is the source of vitality, while industrial innovation is the bridge of transformation. Their deep integration shall be the key pathway for cultivating new quality productive forces and promoting new industrialization," Gan concluded. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) WASHINGTON, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Council for a Secure America (CSA) today released the 25th edition of its Israel-Hamas War Report, a comprehensive, independently sourced update marking 650 days since the October 7 massacre. The report offers in-depth analysis of the ongoing conflict, Israel's military and diplomatic efforts, and the broader regional impact, including proxy activity by Iran-backed groups. Widely cited by Members of Congress, the media, and policy institutions nationwide, the CSA War Report continues to serve as a trusted resource for federal and state officials, synagogues, academic institutions, and advocacy organizations. "This report reflects the Council for a Secure America's steadfast commitment to providing policymakers, thought leaders and the public with reliable, timely insights into one of the most consequential global challenges of our time," said Jennifer Sutton, executive director of the Council for a Secure America. "As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, a clear-eyed understanding of these dynamics is essential to guiding informed policy and fostering meaningful public dialogue." The latest edition highlights several significant developments across the region. In Yemen, Houthi militants have intensified their campaign, launching renewed attacks that resulted in the sinking of two commercial vessels and the capture of crew members, further heightening tensions in the Red Sea and threatening international maritime security. Meanwhile, in Syria, the situation remains fluid, particularly involving the Druze community. A notable breakthrough was achieved with a U.S.-brokered truce between Israel and Syria in the country's southern region, marking the first face-to-face meeting between Israeli and Syrian government ministers since 2000. "We stand in firm and unyielding solidarity with the victims, their families, and all those enduring unimaginable hardship," added Sutton. "In these critical moments, our role is to inform and mobilize the American public, deepen national understanding of the stakes involved, and deliver meaningful support to policymakers, communities, and leaders across the country. This is not just a regional issue, it is a moral imperative with global implications." The CSA War Report compiles content from over 100 reputable media outlets and think tanks. It includes hyperlinks and citations throughout, ensuring transparency and ease of use. All information is open source and may be freely shared or cross-posted. Read the full CSA Israel-Hamas War Report HERE. The Council for a Secure America is a non-partisan, non-profit, 501(c)3 organization focused on educating on the critical importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship, energy security, and the role that the Abraham Accords play in bolstering America's national security. CSA regularly conducts briefings, educational symposia, and research on the benefits of energy security and the reasons it is in the United States' best interest to maintain a strong alliance with Israel. Since October 7th, CSA has compiled and released a constantly updated, open-source, and hyperlinked report on the Israel-Hamas war, the only report of its kind. More information on CSA can be found at www.councilforsecureamerica.org . SOURCE Council for a Secure America The first campaign-released poll in the crowded race for Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District shows State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha with an early lead and wide name recognition among Democrats likely to vote in the May 2026 primary. Results from an earlier poll by Douglas County District Court Clerk Crystal Rhoades also showed Cavanaugh leading the race, but with Rhoades only a few points behind. The two candidate polls provide an early glimpse at the standings in the race to win the Democratic nomination in May and eventually vie for the seat in November. With no incumbent running in the deeply purple district, the race has already drawn big dollars and a lot of attention it's the only one major pollsters have identified as leaning towards a flip. Cavanaugh's poll of likely Democratic voters conducted last week asked: "If the 2026 Democratic primary election for Congress were held today, for whom would you vote?" Of 400 participants, 36% said they would vote for Cavanaugh and 71% recognized his name. The poll showed Rhoades receiving the next highest percentage of likely votes with 15% and 45% name recognition. It also showed that candidates can still win over many voters 29% were undecided. Cavanaugh's campaign commissioned Washington D.C.-based consultant GBAO to conduct the poll, which reached likely Democratic voters over calls and texts. The poll's margin for error is 4.3%. GBAO Pollster Karl Agne said Cavanaugh "starts this race with a significant advantage. In order for any other candidate to challenge him, they would first have to dramatically increase their name ID and then consolidate virtually all undecided voters an extremely tall task in a crowded primary." Rhoades, a former chair of the Douglas County Democrats who runs a political consulting firm with her husband, said the poll doesn't match her data. She shared on Monday results from a poll Change Research conducted in May and June that showed Cavanaugh leading by a smaller margin. Rhoades said a third-party commissioned the poll while recruiting her to run. The poll was conducted over text messages with 445 participants who almost entirely said they planned to vote in the Democratic primary. Cavanaugh polled at 30% and Rhoades at 26%, with 27% undecided and the rest split between a mix of declared and possible candidates. That poll's margin of error was 6.3%, and Rhoades noted she was within that margin. Rhoades said she's confident in the results of her poll and that the participants reflect the electorate in the primary. She said the difference from Cavanaugh's poll may come from different samples of voters. Rhoades' poll showed her trailing Cavanaugh in name recognition and she said her campaign has more room to grow and gain voters. Rhoades has served in elected office for almost two decades and touts her working-class background. Nate Silver, an analyst of elections and polls, rated GBAO's polling performance in 2024 a B or C and Change Research a B-. The grade reflects expectations for error relative to the average, and Silver's model categorized most firms into the B to C range. Turnout in a party primary is typically low, drawing less than 25% of registered voters, and GBAO highlighted that among voters who cast a ballot in each of the last four Democratic primary elections, Cavanaugh received a majority of votes and led the field by 47 percentage points. Cavanaugh said in a phone call Monday that the district needs someone to stand up to President Donald Trump's administration and that he's stood up to Gov. Jim Pillen as a lawmaker, pointing out his opposition to sales tax increases proposed to relieve property taxes. Legislating "requires a lot of work and building bridges and knowing when to compromise and when to fight, and I'm the only one with that history and that experience," Cavanaugh said. Primary voters, he said, will also elect the candidate who can beat the Republican nominee, and he believes the poll shows voters have confidence in him to win. "I'm born and raised in Omaha, with very deep roots in the community," Cavanaugh said. "I'm a fifth-generation Nebraskan and have been active in public service for decades and my family has as well. That deep family connection is something that transcends into the general election." The Democratic candidates seeking to replace Rep. Don Bacon and flip the seat blue are Cavanaugh, Rhoades, political action committee founder Denise Powell, retired eye surgeon Mark Johnston, veteran and former federal official Kishla Askins and former attorney and state attorney general candidate Evangelos Argyrakis. GBAO said Powell polled at 9%, Johnston 5% and Askins 4%. Powell, Johnston and Askins are each running for office for the first time ever. The GBAO poll did not include Argyrakis. Powell has taken an early fundraising lead, reporting $430,000 in donations for the quarter that ended July 1. Powell "has all the momentum in this race," campaign manager Meg Mandy said, adding that Powell has supported candidates and campaigns to expand health care, strengthen public schools and protect reproductive rights. She said that work helped Powell lead in fundraising and build a wide coalition of support. Mandy said Cavanaugh is from a "political dynasty" and may be familiar to voters early in the race, "but at the ballot box next May, Nebraskans will show they're ready for a new leader who they can believe in." Cavanaugh raised about $130,000 and Johnston about $7,000 in the Federal Election Commission's last filing quarter. Askins' campaign manager said Monday they've raised $175,000 since announcing two weeks ago. Danielle Salanitri, the campaign manager, said Askins has an "unmatched" lifetime of service and, "We're confident once Nebraskans learn more about her story and vision for our community, they'll choose her to represent them in Congress." Johnston said he launched his campaign early as a newcomer to politics to get established as a candidate. A career in medicine and running his surgery center required starting from scratch multiple times, he said, so he's eager to keep building name recognition and connecting with voters. The Republicans who have announced their candidacy are Omaha City Councilman Brinker Harding and former State Sen. Brett Lindstrom. National election forecasters have shifted the closely-watched battleground race in favor of a Democrat since Bacon announced he will retire from Congress. Correction: Denise Powell raised about $430,000 in the quarter that ended July 1. A previous version of the story misstated the total. A third-party recruiting Crystal Rhoades as a candidate commissioned a poll of Democratic voters in May and June. A previous version of the story misstated who commissioned the poll. Oregon is one of only two states west of the Mississippi River that has an estate tax. The other one of course is Washington. Between the two of them, there is a constant competition as to which can adopt the latest nonsense that passes for a progressive agenda first. Not even California with its insatiable appetite to tax everything that moves, glows or is edible (with the possible exception of hallucinogenic drugs) has an estate tax. Californias exception to taxing wealth that has already been taxed while you were accumulating it is probably due to the mega rich denizens of Hollywood and the Silicon Valley adjacent to San Francisco politics being mostly about raising campaign funds and satiating their requests for political contributions are chump change for the the one-tenth of the one percenters. Be that as it may, Oregons estate tax is one of the principle reasons that individuals and business have left and continue to leave the state of Oregon. (Virtually every estate planner or wealth manager has a single piece of advice dont die in Oregon.) There was a net outward migration in 2024 for Oregon. An October 2024 study by the Common Sense Institute summarized it thusly: Recent estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau indicate significant shifts in Oregons migration patterns, altering its long-standing net gains of both domestic and international migrants. Historically, Oregon consistently ranked within the top 20 states for population growth from net migration. However, since 2020, the state has witnessed profound changes in its demographic dynamics. Although migrants continue to be drawn to the state, some residents are leaving and the birth rate has been very low, leading to small population losses. The last time Oregon saw its population decline was in the early 1980s when wood product mills closed across the state. The current environment is much different, with the job market healthy in most regions. According to the latest Census figures, between 2022 and 2023, Oregons population experienced a decline of approximately 6,000 individuals, equating to a 0.14% decrease within a single year. While Oregon does not yet require an exit visa for those choosing to leave, you can bet your bottom dollar that Oregons penchant for increasing taxes ranks high as one of the reasons. Right behind that, of course, is the way Oregon spends those tax dollars waste, fraud, dalliance with the latest sexual perversions, diversion to political supporters, and just plain stupidity rank high as to the causes. Regardless, you can also count on the fact that virtually all of those 6,000 individuals who left took their wealth, their skills, and their jobs with them. But Oregons demographers are busy with their graphs, charts and statistical manipulations in an effort to put lipstick on this pig. Their principle argument is that Oregon, on a per capita basis, is one of the largest beneficiaries of international inward migration. A July 13, 2025, article in Oregonlive.com the online edition of the failing, left leaning Oregonian noted: Oregons population has grown very modestly over the past few years, a sharp contrast to the robust expansion during the 2010s. But even that modest growth has relied upon people moving to Oregon from other countries, according to newly released census data. International migration netted Oregon nearly 24,000 additional residents last year. Meanwhile, 1,200 more people moved away from Oregon to other parts of the U.S. than moved to the state from elsewhere in the country. But that is precisely the same description of the massive surge of illegal aliens under the administration of Joe Biden. Analysis of information obtained from those illegals briefly detained indicated that while the overwhelming majority crossed into America through our southern border, they, in fact, were from everywhere in the world including nations designated as harboring terrorists. But Oregons political class including its media seem to embrace what should be an embarrassment and a cautionary tale. The Oregonlive.com continues: With the Trump administration working to stem the flow of people moving into the U.S. both legally and illegally Oregon may not be able to continue looking abroad to maintain or grow its population. Most Oregon counties had more migrants from other countries than from other parts of the U.S. between 2023 and 2024, according to census data first noted by Portland pollster John Horvick. As noted above, those leaving Oregon took their work, their jobs and their skills with them, not so with those coming to Oregon for its generous no questions asked welfare state. An October 23, 2024 article in That Oregon Life noted: Oregons homeless population has surged dramatically in recent years. According to The Oregonians article, the number of people experiencing homelessness in the state increased by 23% between 2020 and 2022, and by another 12% from 2022 to 2023. In total, there are now 20,142 Oregonians without permanent housing, with a staggering 48 people per 10,000 residents experiencing homelessness. Experts believe these numbers are likely an undercount, given the challenges in accurately tracking unhoused populations. And government statistics indicated that those relying on welfare in Oregon continue to increase. According to the Federal Reserve Bank in St. Louis (FRED), the number of welfare recipients Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Oregon in 2020 was 704,964 and rose to 733,747 by 2022, I could not find similar date from FRED for 2024, but according to USAFacts the number of SNAP beneficiaries increased to 757,700. And while the apologists for Oregons misguided politicians may revel in the diversity and international flavor of its new migrants (legal and illegal) the cold hard facts are that Oregons net inward migration is a further drain on its resources. Nobody should be proud when they drive those who contribute away, nor celebrate when they encourage those who continue to be a burden on the resources of the state to come. And while that may boost the chances of progressives to win elections, it is a steady march towards economic suicide. So, congratulations to state Sen. Kevin Mannix for trying to eliminate Oregons burdensome estate tax as a means to convince those producing wealth to stay, and those with wealth to return. By Taxpayers Association of Oregon OregonWatchdog.com A 35-year-old anarchist accused of vandalizing three Portland businesses (Chipotle, Umpqua Bank, and a security company) and the Democratic Party Headquarters (damage shown above) during riots in 2020 saw a judge reduce his charge from a felony riot and criminal mischief charges to a misdemeanor. Darrell Kimberlin, who pleaded guilty to the felony charges, also is accused of posted personal information of law enforcement officers and photos of them and their families online. Multnomah County Judge Angela Lucero reduced the charges against Kimberlin on July 11, opening the door for him to have all charges expunged. His attorney said Kimberlin paid $50,000 in restitution and completed 18 months of probation. Kimberlins $50,000 restitution does not cover the total damages he did, which is estimated to be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Vandalizing a small business during a riot season can cause their insurance to spike for years. What is the price for threatening law enforcement by doxing them and their families? Apparently not much according to this liberal-logic decision. By Taxpayers Association of Oregon Foundation Oregon joins 20 states in a lawsuit to stop the Trump administration from accessing key details (SSN#, addresses) on who is receiving Food Stamps that the Federal Government pays for. The Oregon Attorney General says this is about immigration, yet, illegal migrants are, in most cases, not allowed to sign-up for Food Stamps. There should be no illegal migrant on the program. The Agriculture Department has stated up front that they wish to use the information to verify eligibility and protect against waste. In Oregon, 19 individuals were charged with orchestrating theft scams linked to baby formula and SNAP benefits, amassing over $500,000. Meanwhile, in Baltimore, store owners were implicated in illegal welfare trafficking, raking in a staggering $16 million. Additionally, a meat market proprietor in Cincinnati faced a conviction for committing $3.4 million in fraud. Oregon has consistently ranked in the top 5 Food Stamp states in America. WASHINGTON, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Dechert LLP continues to grow its leading financial services platform with the addition of Rebecca Lee as a partner in its Washington, D.C. office. Joining the global tax practice, Ms. Lee bolsters the firm's tax capabilities in the investment management and financial services sectors. Rebecca Lee "Rebecca's arrival is a testament to our strategic focus on expanding our financial services platform with top-tier talent across all our practice groups. Her deep knowledge of complex financial products in asset management and digital finance will help us continue to deliver exceptional value to our clients," said Mark Thierfelder, co-chair of Dechert. "Rebecca's skills and expertise further strengthen our team as we continue delivering seamless, integrated tax advice across the financial services landscape," said Joshua Milgrim, chair of Dechert's global tax group. "Her background in navigating complicated fund structures and the evolving digital assets space bolsters our ability to guide clients through their most sophisticated tax challenges." Ms. Lee joins Dechert from a leading accounting firm where she worked with global asset managers, other large financial services companies, Fortune 500 corporations, institutional investors, and portfolio companies on complex financial transactions. With extensive experience across a broad range of financial products and structures, Ms. Lee's practice will include advising on exchange-traded funds, mutual funds, closed-end funds and common trust funds as well as credit, hedge, and private equity funds. Ms. Lee also has significant experience advising clients on cryptocurrency and digital assets. "I am thrilled to join Dechert and work alongside its highly regarded financial services and investment management team," said Ms. Lee. "I look forward to collaborating with my new colleagues and leveraging my tax background in fund structuring and emerging financial products to deliver meaningful results for our clients." Ms. Lee is the fourth financial services partner hire this summer, following the recent additions of Arina Lekhel and Megha Kalbag in New York and Robert Shapiro in Washington, D.C. The firm also recently expanded its corporate practice with the addition of Joseph Dennis in the London office, whose experience includes advising investors and private equity funds on transactions in the financial services sector. With over 200 lawyers, Dechert has one of the largest financial services and investment management teams. It was the first law firm with a funds practice in all key European fund domiciles, including the U.K., Ireland, Luxembourg, Germany and France, as well as the U.S., the Middle East and Asia. The firm is consistently recognized by independent experts as a leading law firm for investment funds. Dechert's global tax practice, comprising lawyers in the United States and Europe, provides inventive tax solutions that meet the challenges and objectives of clients' most sophisticated business dealings around the globe, from corporate transactions and restructurings to financial transactions and fund formation and investing. About Dechert Dechert is the law firm that helps business leaders lead. For more than 150 years, we have advised clients on critical issues from high-stakes litigation to first-in-market transaction structures and complex regulatory matters. Our nearly 1,000 lawyers in commercial centers worldwide are immersed in the key sectors we serve financial services, private capital, real estate, life sciences and technology. Dechert delivers unwavering partnership so our clients can achieve unprecedented results. SOURCE Dechert LLP BLOOMINGTON The Bloomington City Council voted Monday to temporarily suspend its annual commitment of sales tax revenue to the McLean County Mental Health and Public Safety Fund for a 12-month period. It also voted to join the Town of Normal in calling for an independent audit of the fund, which has been the subject of criticism over its balance of more than $20 million. In 2016, the city and the town entered into an intergovernmental agreement with the county to share the proceeds of a 1% sales tax increase for behavioral health services at the newly expanded McLean County jail and the community. Since then, the two municipalities have transferred about $40 million into the Mental Health and Public Safety Fund. The city remitted about $3.16 million in shared sales tax revenue to the fund during the 2025 fiscal year. However, this number is expected to increase due to recent legislative changes related to collecting online sales tax. Over the course of the suspension, the city of Bloomington is estimated to collect about $3.5 million. Under the terms of the agreement, the county may only use the shared tax revenue on debt service related to the expansion and renovation of McLean County Law and Justice Center detention facilities; county government criminal justice services related to expanded and renovated detention facility operations for behavioral health services; and community behavioral health initiatives, services and programs consistent with the McLean County Behavioral Health Action Plan. Recently, the fund helped to cover the construction of Home Sweet Home Ministries homeless shelter village project, The Bridge. Bloomington City Manager Jeff Jurgens said while the suspension is in effect, the City Council will determine the use of the sales tax revenue that would have been remitted to the county. At the end of the day, the idea is that that money could be utilized instead of having to reach into other potential taxpayer dollars, Jurgens said. However, Alderwoman Mollie Ward said the amendment should both pause contributions to the county and make it crystal clear that the city is not trying to claw back money to put into the general fund. Therefore, Ward moved to change the amendment to reflect the pledged revenues would be used exclusively for community behavioral health initiatives and services that are consistent with the McLean County Mental Health Action Plan of 2022 and any subsequent updates. We need a pause precisely because we need to ensure that we fund behavioral health initiatives in a timely way, Ward said. The revised amendment to suspend sales tax contributions was approved without opposition. Alderman John Danenberger was absent. The Town of Normal also voted last week in favor of the 12-month pause. However, the McLean County Board also has to vote in favor of the pause to be enacted. As the 10-year intergovernmental agreement enacted in 2016 approaches its midpoint, the Bloomington and Normal councils also voted to use the funds proceeds to conduct an independent audit. The McLean County Board, which also voted in favor of an audit during its July meeting, capped the use of sales tax revenue for this process at $50,000. The Mental Health and Public Safety Fund is also overseen by an advisory council, which meets annually and is responsible for budgeting and allocation of funds. Its next meeting is at 11 a.m. Aug. 19 on the fourth floor of the McLean County Government Center, 115 E. Washington St. Other business The council also adopted an ordinance authorizing Jurgens to implement short-term parking solutions as the first phase of the citys streetscape plan unfolds. Although no individual parking changes were voted on, the city could implement temporary parking agreements, adjusted parking rates and modified on-street parking time limits. Jurgens said these changes are more economically feasible than investing hundreds of thousands in the Market Street Garage, which is already slated for demolition. Alderwoman Sheila Montney suggested setting a cap on the amount the city would spend on these parking adjustments. However, Alderman Mike Straza voiced concerns about revealing how much the city is willing to spend when some of the steps are under negotiation. The council also voted in favor of an annexation agreement that would facilitate a multi-family development to be built on a 5-acre site on the southwest corner of South Morris Avenue and Lutz Road. A solar farm would also be built as an interim use until public water main and sanitary sewer connections can reach the southern portion of the property. No one registered to speak at a public hearing about the project that occurred at the beginning of the council meeting. In a city celebrated for its creative energy, Bangkoks design community is constantly searching for furnishings that balance form, function, and forward-thinking aesthetics. The quest for modern furniture in Bangkok can feel overwhelming. This is where Euro Creations stands apart, by offering a curated portfolio of premier European brands, professional guidance, and an experience tailored to elevate every project. What Defines Modern Furniture? Modern furniture embraces clean lines, thoughtful ergonomics, and materials chosen for both beauty and longevity. While aesthetics vary, from minimalist to sculptural, true modern pieces share common traits: Streamlined silhouettes: Simple geometric forms allow spaces to breathe and highlight architectural features. Innovative materials: High-grade woods, responsibly tanned leathers, and metal or glass accents deliver durability without visual clutter. Modular flexibility: Configurable components adapt to evolving lifestyles and changing floor plans. Subtle technology integration: Discreet charging ports, smart lighting, or hidden storage maximise functionality. Sustainable production: Recycled fabrics and certified timbers align luxury with eco-conscious values. Advantages of Choosing Modern Furniture Style versatility: Understated lines harmonise with diverse interior styles, allowing decor to evolve without constant replacement. Space optimisation: Slim profiles and modular structures maximise usable square footage, a crucial advantage in urban residences. Ergonomic comfort: Contemporary research into posture and support ensures seating remains comfortable during extended use. Ease of maintenance: Smooth finishes and durable textiles simplify cleaning, preserving pristine appearances for years. Sustainable innovation: Many modern manufacturers prioritise recycled materials and energy-efficient production, allowing buyers to invest responsibly. Selecting High-Quality Modern Pieces When searching for modern furniture in Bangkok, prioritise showrooms that demonstrate: Authentic brand partnerships: Direct relationships guarantee provenance, strict quality control, and comprehensive warranties. Customisation options: Bespoke finishes and modular elements ensure each piece aligns perfectly with individual needs. Professional design support: In-house consultants interpret floor plans, lighting, and lifestyle requirements to propose cohesive solutions. White-glove installation: Skilled technicians handle delivery, assembly, and precise placement, protecting delicate finishes. After-sales care: Maintenance guidance and re-upholstery services preserve investment value over generations. The Euro Creations Advantage Euro Creations integrates these essentials we have mentioned above into a seamless, client-centric experience. Their flagship showroom in Thonglor 5 houses Bangkoks foremost modern furniture collections under one roof, allowing designers and homeowners to compare aesthetics and finishes effortlessly. Staged interiors, interactive material libraries, and private consultation suites inspire creativity and promote confident decision-making. From spatial analysis to material selection, dedicated design consultants can help you transform abstract ideas into tangible plans, saving valuable time and ensuring cohesive results. Do you need a limited-edition marble tabletop or a custom leather hue? They will liaise directly with suppliers to secure the precise specification, maintaining authenticity and timely delivery. Trained technicians manage every detail from delivery to installation, followed by ongoing maintenance advice that keeps furnishings pristine and long-lasting. Finding the right modern furniture in Bangkok is all about partnering with a showroom that shares your commitment to quality, innovation, and aesthetics. Euro Creations invites you to explore an inspiring world of contemporary design. Visit their gallery and showroom and experience how, as a leading provider of modern furniture in Bangkok, Euro Creations can transform any space into a sophisticated reflection of modern living. Source: Primal This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain African governments and development agencies have embraced science, technology and innovation as levers for development over the past two decades. Science, technology and innovation boost productivity, cut transaction costs, open new business opportunities and promote social inclusion. They also help societies tackle grand challenges such as climate change and persistent poverty. By 2020 at least 25 African countries had a national policy framework for science, technology and innovation. This compares with only about 8 in 2010. Science, technology and innovation measurements are essential because they allow policymakers to see whether investments are yielding results. Without adequate metrics, scarce resources can be misdirected and progress towards Africa's development goals will stall. But are African governments, development partners and scholars measuring what matters? As a group of researchers who have spent years studying science, technology and innovation systems in South Africa, Nigeria and other African countries, we sought to answer this question. In a recent study we found that the indicators used to track innovation in Africa are largely borrowed from high-income countries, and may be missing the mark. If innovation is to help solve Africa's challengeslike youth unemployment, food insecurity, digital exclusion and climate vulnerabilitythen the way African governments measure it needs to change. The measurement gap Innovation indicators such as research and development expenditure, patent counts and numbers of researchers are useful. But only up to a point. They assume a formal, high-tech, research-intensive model of innovation typical of rich countries. In contrast, African economies are dominated by informal firms, grassroots inventiveness and frugal solutions born of necessity. Our systematic review of 42 peer-reviewed publications published between 2008 and 2024 shows that research on science, technology and innovation measurement in Africa is growing. But it remains fragmented and limited in scope. Most studies focus on South Africa and Nigeria, leaving much of the continent under-researched. Even in those two countries, the focus has been more on adopting global standards than developing homegrown alternatives. We searched bibliographic databases with keywords including "innovation" and "Africa." We also tracked the geographical location of the authors of papers that cited the 42 in our sample. This is a way to identify where related studies are taking place. We included only countries with at least five papers. Nigeria and South Africa were the only two African countries that qualified. Innovation that goes uncounted Many of Africa's most effective innovations happen "under the radar"in farms, markets, workshops and neighborhoods. This is almost impossible to quantify. Examples would be a mobile money agent in rural Kenya who finds a way to securely transfer funds without a formal banking system. Or a mechanic in Nigeria who modifies second-hand engines to run on local fuel blends. These are genuine innovations, yet they rarely show up in conventional data. The problem is not just one of visibility, but of conceptual mismatch. Much of Africa's innovation is incremental, necessity-driven and based on doing, using and interacting, rather than on structured research and development or formal science. Current indicators simply aren't designed to capture this. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Why measurement matters Some may ask: why does it matter how Africa measure innovation? The answer lies in policy. What we measure shapes what we fund, what we support and ultimately what we value. If African policymakers rely on indicators that ignore the informal sector or discount indigenous knowledge, policies might miss a lot of economic and social activity. Moreover, global development goals such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union STI Strategy for Africa require better evidence to track progress. Africa cannot assess how science, technology and innovation contribute to food security, health access or climate adaptation if data are blind to realities. Towards a new agenda So how do we start measuring what truly matters in Africa? Our research identifies six key areas for action: Align the measurement with the Sustainable Development Goals: Indicators must reflect how innovation contributes to solving real-life problems like clean water, renewable energy, or maternal health; not just how many patents were filed. Improve data quality and governance: Many African countries lack consistent data collection systems. They need institutional capacity and more inclusive survey methods. Recognize diverse modes of innovation: From grassroots tinkering to digital entrepreneurship, innovation in Africa takes many forms. Focus on the informal sector: This is where most Africans work and innovate. The International Labor Organization estimates that 83% of all employment in Africa in 2024 was in the informal economy. Pioneering efforts in South Africa and Nigeria are adapting innovation surveys to informal businesses. For example, South Africa's Center for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators completed the first systematic survey of innovation in South Africa's informal sector in 2018. A similar survey has since been conducted in Nigeria. Track digitalization: Africa's digital transformation, from mobile banking to e-health, is real, but under-measured. Integrate environmental sustainability: Green innovation remains a blind spot. With climate impacts growing, we need to understand how innovation can support resilience, not just growth. Learning from the global south Other regions have made headway with innovation metrics. Latin America developed the Bogota Manual in the 1990s to adapt innovation measurement to local contexts. Asia's rising economies are also investing heavily in new metrics. Africa can learn from these experiences. Our analysis shows that most highly cited work on African science, technology and innovation is authored outside the continent. Africa needs to grow a critical mass of African scholars generating theory and evidence about African innovation, for African development. A call to action With the African Continental Free Trade Area, rapid urbanization and a booming youth population, the continent is poised for transformation. But this must be guided by data that reflect its realities. To get there, Africa must develop, test and institutionalize new metrics. This means investing in local research, strengthening institutions and collaborating across countries and sectors. Africa must define and measure innovation on its own terms. Only then can its data lead to policies that empower people, create jobs and build resilience. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A sagebrush community invaded by leafy spurge (panel a) and a closeup of a leafy spurge inflorescence (panel b). Credit: Scientific Data (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41597-025-05094-6 A single plant costs U.S. ranchers $35 million a year. Now, a team of researchers is using artificial intelligence to keep it in check. Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University, together with scientists at a conservation ranch in Montana, developed a method that trains machine learning models to detect invasive species more effectively, even with limited data. The study is published in the journal Scientific Data. One invasive, leafy spurge is a noxious weed with small green flowers that can wreak havoc on farms and natural ecosystems. Toxic to livestock, it can render whole hayfields inedible by crowding out native plants. Researchers estimate that it causes more than $35 million in losses annually in the country's beef and hay production. But the costs go far beyond the bottom line. As grazing lands shrink, food supplies tighten. As invasive species spread, pesticide use rises. Native plants disappear, pollinators and birds lose habitat, and the broader ecosystem begins to unravel. What starts as a weed in a pasture can quickly become a threat to the land itself. Tracking down, monitoring and ultimately eradicating invasive species is a priority for those in agriculture, conservation and ecology, but this task is time-consuming and costly. AI could help, but scientists lack the data needed to develop a tool that can effectively identify and monitor these plants. "These invasive plants are a serious problem," said Ruslan Salakhutdinov, faculty in CMU's School of Computer Science. "Leafy spurge can destroy the ecosystems around it. Building a machine learning tool to help was a tough problem to solve because we didn't have massive amounts of data on this plant, even online. "So, it became this problem of how do we build accurate models with a limited amount of data. That's the problem we wanted to solve. And, along with this interesting problem, the solution has a big impact on the ecology and environment." Salakhutdinov is the UPMC Professor of Computer Science in the Machine Learning Department (MLD). He worked with Brandon Trabucco, an MLD doctoral student; Max Gurinas, at Harvard University; and Kyle Doherty, a staff scientist at MPG Ranch, which manages more than 15,000 acres of conservation property in western Montana for research. Scientists at MPG Ranch had been using drones and AI tools to map the locations of plants in greater detail. Even though Doherty called himself an "AI nerd," working with Salakhutdinov's lab expanded his knowledge of the field. Researchers at SCS wanted to leverage new generative AI tools to improve existing models trained to detect leafy spurge using existing drone images. Salakhutdinov and Trabucco wondered if using synthetic images of leafy spurge made with AI could create the needed data to make the models work better. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Researchers developed a new technique called DA-Fusion, which uses advanced AI models to create more useful training images. Normally, to expand a dataset, researchers make small changes to existing images, like cropping or flipping them. DA-Fusion goes further by changing the image's subject or background. For example, if the original photo shows leafy spurge growing in a crop field, DA-Fusion might generate an image of the same weed in a forest or a grassy field during a different season. DA-Fusion created diverse training data of leafy spurge under various weather conditions, such as snow or during a spring bloom. This spared ecologists in Montana from needing to go out in every weather condition to gather data. A representative sample of leafy spurge presences (top; a) and absences (bottom; b). "The costs to effectively manage a conservation ranch like MPG can be quite high, and a lot of that is due to the labor necessary to access remote areas and assess the presence of plants like leafy spurge," said Gurinas. "Machine learning techniques like the one we've developed allow a degree of automation which makes conservation efforts across wider areas more economically feasible." By improving the diversity and quality of training data, researchers can improve the accuracy of machine learning models with fewer examples. Researchers agree that establishing this relationship between conservation scientists and machine learning researchers is a critical development for the future of agriculture and ecology. "The exciting thing about the datasets that we're building is that they're unique. There aren't many ecological datasets out there for the machine learning community to sink their teeth into," Doherty said. "I think people are interested in making an impact. You can solve the problem of restoration ecologists and combat climate change. It's meaningful work that's important to put out there." Doherty and his colleagues at MPG Ranch have made their leafy spurge dataset publicly available for the machine learning community. By sharing the data openly, they hope to accelerate efforts to detect and manage other invasive species. "These tasks are some of the most important we face as a society," Trabucco said. "Problems like leafy spurge are very underserved, and maybe the advances that we see in machine learning can help us in the ways we've seen these tools solve other problems and unlock new abilities." More information: Kyle Doherty et al, Ground-truthed and high-resolution drone images of the leafy spurge weed plant (Euphorbia esula), Scientific Data (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41597-025-05094-6 Journal information: Scientific Data This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: 940 nanometer dual-cavity photonic crystal VCSEL array with weakly anti-guided cavities supporting coherent supermode emission. (10.1109/JPHOT.2025.3566986). Credit: The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Known for their ability to seamlessly integrate into semiconductor chips, VCSELs (vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers) are used in everything from computer mice to face-scanning hardware in smartphones. However, these devices are still very much an active field of research, and many researchers believe there are still important applications waiting to be discovered. The laboratory of Kent Choquette, a professor of electrical and computer engineering in The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, has developed a new design in which light from multiple VCSELs combines to form a single coherent pattern called a "supermode." As the researchers report in the IEEE Photonics Journal, the result is a controllable pattern brighter than what is possible with an array of independent devices, adding to the capabilities of these already-versatile devices. "VCSELs are more challenging to work with than other kinds of lasers because they naturally tend to emit light in many special patterns, or 'modes," so the central problem has been figuring out how to get the light to stay in the mode you want," Choquette said. "The design we explore in this study is noteworthy because it shows how to extend mode control across more than one VCSEL and use an array of them in tandem to get a single desired mode. With this level of cooperation across arrays of VCSELs, we're confident that new uses for these devices will emerge." Ordinarily, VCSELs are individually controlled with electrical signals, making the problem of coordinating a coherent beam across laser cavities difficult. The researchers proposed a design that makes use of a photonic crystal connecting adjacent VCSELs. So, although they are electrically independent, they act in tandem optically. This makes it possible to control both cavities in a way that produces one of two pre-determined collective patterns, or supermodes. The details of the design, including the use of a special "anti-guided" crystal to achieve the optical coupling, were studied by Dan Pflug, an Illinois Grainger Engineering graduate student in Choquette's laboratory and the study's lead author. The Illinois team then turned the design over to the company Dallas Quantum Devices, where a working device was fabricated in a foundry-level process, demonstrating that the design can be practically realized. "Our collaboration with Dallas Quantum Devices originates in a call from the National Science Foundation for Small Business Innovation Research proposals in high-speed VCSELs," Choquette said. "I've known some of these people for over 20 years. It's a case where what started out as informal exchanges led to a long-term formal relationship." For Choquette, this work is a product of discovery and innovation for its own sake. He observed that this is often where some of the most important end uses for new technologies originate. "When I started working with VCSELs 30 years ago, the interest in them was purely academic," Choquette said. "But one day, I got a call from Microsoft, and laser computer mice entered the market. Now, everyone uses VCSELs every day. This is the reason we do research like this: applications aren't always obvious, and the only way to know is to try it out." More information: Dan W. Pflug et al, Enhanced Supermode Stability in Weakly Anti-Guided Dual-Cavity Photonic Crystal VCSEL Arrays, IEEE Photonics Journal (2025). DOI: 10.1109/JPHOT.2025.3566986 DANANG, Vietnam, July 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Perfectly positioned between business and leisure, Pullman Danang Beach Resort continues to elevate the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) experience in Central Vietnam. Following a comprehensive renovation in September 2024, the resort presents a refreshed MICE portfolio designed to meet the evolving needs of modern event organizerscombining versatility, creativity, and a distinctly coastal charm. Lotus Ballroom provides a sophisticated setting for up to 500 guests, enhanced by advanced AV systems and a customizable 16-million-color LED lighting Dynamic venues for every occasion at Pullman Danang Beach Resort Nestled along the white sands of Bac My An Beach, the beach front resort offers a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor venues with a total capacity of up to 1,500 guests. Whether for an executive workshop or a beachfront gala, Pullman Danang is ready to host events with style and substance. Dynamic Venues for Every Occasion The resort's Lotus Ballroom provides a sophisticated setting for up to 500 guests, enhanced by advanced AV systems and a customizable 16-million-color LED lighting setup to bring any concept to life. For open-air occasions, the lush beachfront lawn and private beach area together accommodate up to 1,000 guests, offering breathtaking views and fresh coastal energy, ideal for evening celebrations, networking sessions, and incentive gatherings. Creative Culinary Concepts with Proven Expertise Culinary excellence is at the heart of every event. From interactive food stations to internationally inspired menus and local Vietnamese delicacies, the resort's F&B team curates experiences that are both memorable and tailored to each occasion, from a casual coffee break to a refined gala dinner. With a passionate team boasting over a decade of event expertise, Pullman Danang ensures smooth coordination, attentive service, and end-to-end support. High-speed internet, hybrid meeting options, and professional technical assistance provide added assurance for seamless execution. "We offer not only a MICE service, we create a comprehensive, culturally inspired experience shaped by our beachside setting, local engagement, and proven organizational excellence," said Agnaldo Garibaldi, General Manager of Pullman Danang Beach Resort. From strategic meetings to celebratory milestones, Pullman Danang Beach Resort is where business meets the beauty of Central Vietnam, setting a new standard for MICE experiences with purpose and personality. Press kit: download here For more information and bookings: [email protected] Website: https://www.pullman-danang.com/ Address: 101 Vo Nguyen Giap Street, Ngu Hanh Son Ward, Danang City, Vietnam SOURCE Pullman Danang Beach Resort This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Example photo of a yellow-filtered-UV-light photo of a spiral settlement module after six months on the reef showing fluorescing coral recruits with a ruler (inches) for scale. Credit: Environmental Science & Technology (2025). DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5c03049 Coral restoration efforts could be dramatically improved with technologies that support the survival and growth of baby corals, suggests a new study. Findings showed that two novel devices, the Underwater Zooplankton Enhancement Light Array (UZELA) and 3D printed artificial settlement modules, could together boost the population of a species of coral native to Hawaii. In a previous study led by researchers at The Ohio State University, scientists found that UZELA successfully attracted nearby zooplankton, microscopic organisms that coral feed on. That study found that the light greatly enhanced local zooplankton density and increased the feeding rates of adult coral. In this one, they found that combining the light with 3D printed housing modules could double survivorship and quadruple the growth of baby corals, which are called recruits. Coral reefs are vital drivers of the marine ecosystem. Yet as rising global temperatures and acidifying oceans threaten their food sources, many coral reefs are now experiencing severe population declines. Typically, these losses would be recovered slowly via a process called coral recruitment, where adult coral colonies reproduce by releasing small larvae to recolonize the reef. But juvenile corals often die before they can become larger colonies, creating a population bottleneck that nature can't always overcome alone, said Shannon Dixon, lead author of the study and a graduate student in earth sciences at Ohio State. "Coral recruitment is super important for reef persistence throughout time," she said. "Just like how trees drop seeds to create new trees, the life cycle of coral is very similar." While this process also acts as a way for coral to cope with environmentally stressful events like heat stress or cyclones, some reefs, like the Florida Keys, experience little to no coral recruitment, so human intervention is needed to ensure the reef continues to thrive, said Dixon. Now, as the first team to exhibit a combined technology method for coral recovery, the researchers in this study reveal that the presence of UZELA and the complex settlement modules could reduce the time coral need to complete this vulnerable "baby" phase of their lives, while accelerating the timeline for establishing genetically diverse coral populations. More importantly, by exposing coral recruits to higher concentrations of zooplankton, these tools worked to double coral survivorship and quadruple their growth. "Making reefs more habitable for coral recruits is extremely important," said Dixon. "If we can create the ideal living conditions for struggling coral reefs, we'll see more survivorship, higher biodiversity, and more reefs in geographical locations than we would see without these tools." The study was recently published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. On the quest to help coral offspring survive a harrowing early life, scientists used UZELA in tandem with three types of artificial ceramic settlement modules. Of the 30 modules used in this experiment, 10 had flat surfaces, 10 were smooth domes, and 10 were spiral domes. Half of the modules of each type were coupled with UZELA to concentrate zooplankton, while the other half did not have UZELA as a control. Researchers had theorized that certain domes would be better for the survival and growth of the coral because of their complexity, which turned out to be true. After six months on the reef, no corals on the flat surface survived, but some had on both the smooth and spiral domes. However, those that grew with UZELA on the smooth and spiral dome settlement modules survived at twice the rate of those that didn't have UZELA. Unsurprisingly, these findings are consistent with the idea that coral larvae tend to avoid horizontal surfaces, preferring to settle in a structure's minute crevices, said Dixon. At the end of the experiment, all surviving coral recruits appeared healthy, suggesting the tools this team used are extremely adept at improving coral feeding. This result is great news during a time when global coral mortality is reaching record highs, said Andrea Grottoli, senior co-author of the study and a professor in earth sciences at Ohio State, but it is especially meaningful for baby corals, as they usually require lots of high-quality nutrition to prosper. "This outcome is directly applicable to what we might expect survivorship and growth to look like on other reefs using these technologies," she said. "It just goes to show how a little goes a long way when you give coral a little more to eat." UZELA is currently patent pending in three countries, including the United States. This work illustrates how effectively the project could be scaled up for use in active coral restoration programs, potentially making both local and worldwide conservation efforts faster and far more effective. But there's only so much that man-made gadgets can do for the coral community, said Grottoli. "Technological interventions like UZELA and the settlement modules will help some corals survive in some places, sometimes," she said. "But with all technologies, there are real costs and real efforts associated with them." One of the most important keys to bridging the current coral survivorship gap may be to determine the impact this study's devices will have on multiyear coral recruit survivorship, maturation and reproduction, which the team plans to investigate. "This project highlights how wonderfully you can combine technological interventions that you didn't necessarily see fitting together, but push the envelope to solve problems in new multidisciplinary ways," said Dixon. "Research like this allows us to embrace the collaborative nature of science to make the environment better for coral." Co-authors include Ann Marie Hulver and Jacob Welter from Ohio State, Hendrikje Jorissen, Robert J. Toonen, and Joshua S. Madin from the University of Hawaii, and the R3D Consortium. More information: Shannon L. Dixon et al, Technology Solutions for Overcoming the Coral Recruitment Bottleneck, Environmental Science & Technology (2025). DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5c03049 Journal information: Environmental Science & Technology This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Prolonged coral bleaching events, caused by environmental stress, can cause coral reefs to die. Credit: Danielle.ihde/Wikimedia Coral reefs are vital ecosystems that sustain millions of people, yet they face a growing crisis. Rising ocean temperatures are causing coral bleaching, a process where heat disrupts the relationship between corals and the microalgae living inside them. If the stress continues, the corals may die. Since the 1980s, bleaching events have increased significantly, posing a major threat to reefs and the coastal communities that rely on them for food, income and protection. Scientists rely on data-monitoring tools to predict where and when bleaching is most likely to occur. These tools help inform conservation decisions made by the reef managers in charge of preserving the reefs, like temporarily pausing tourism or fishing to allow corals to recover. But important questions are often overlooked in the process: Are these decisions fair? And who bears the cost of protecting coral reefs? Managing reefs Predicting bleaching events is crucial for managing reefs. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Coral Reef Watch uses satellite data to issue real-time bleaching alerts. These alerts guide managers to act before reefs reach dangerous thresholds. However, the science isn't perfect. Our research shows that about one-third of bleaching alerts worldwide are false alarms or missed events. If fishing or tourism sites are closed based on a false alarm, it can cause unnecessary economic hardship to local communities. On the other hand, failing to act when bleaching happens risks long-term ecological damage. Not all reefs are affected equally. The challenges are especially severe in developing countries, where coastal communities depend heavily on reefs for their livelihoods. Many coastal communities do not have the money, government support or backup options they need to protect reefs or cope with the damage. As a result, coastal communities in developing countries bear the greatest ecological and economic risks. This highlights the need for a rethink of how reef-protection strategies are designed and implemented. Equity matters Reef management must be fair, not just to the reefs but also to the people who depend on them. This is where equity comes in. Equity means not only sharing the benefits of healthy reefs, but also ensuring that the costs, such as fishing bans or tourism closures, do not disproportionately fall on those least able to handle them. Reuters reports on the worlds largest coral, discovered in the Solomon Islands. There are three key principles that help bring equity to the heart of coral-reef management and the fair sharing of reef resources: Recognizing equity: Different groups relate to the reef in different ways. For some, it is a source of food; for others, it has cultural or spiritual meaning. Understanding and respecting these different connectionswhether scientific, economic or traditionalis essential. Fair decision-making: Managing the reef should be a collective undertaking. It is important that those who depend on it, like fishing communities, tourism operators and Indigenous groups, have a real say in how the reef is used, and not just more powerful or rich interest groups, like commercial fishers. Fair sharing of benefits and costs: The benefits of healthy reefs, like fish, tourism income or coastal protection, should be distributed fairly. Likewise, the costs, such as fishing bans or tourism restrictions, should not fall unfairly on those who can least afford it. These ideas may sound like common sense, but they are often missing in practice. In developing countries, decisions made in the interest of reef conservation can unintentionally harm local communities. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Sustainable and local solutions Without alternative sources of income or food, restricting fishing or access to reefs can worsen poverty, exacerbate gender inequity or push unsustainable practices to other areas. In the Solomon Islands, for example, coral reefs are crucial for both food and economic well-being. In some communities, the food and materials people harvest from reefs, like fish, shells and corals, are worth more than what they earn from other sources. But heavy reliance on reef resources, especially for cash income, has led to over-extraction in some areas, putting both the reefs and local livelihoods at risk. A community-led planning project in the small island nation of Tuvalu has fostered support for low-impact tourism that balances conservation with livelihoods. Villages identified key sites to protect and developed visitor guidelines to support tourism in a socially responsible and environmentally sustainable manner, balancing reef conservation with local livelihoods. These examples show that conservation solutions must be co-designed, flexible and tailored to each context. Decisions to close areas or create protected zones should consult with and include local communities. Toward a just future Strategies to protect coral reefs need to evolve to include impacted communities. This means reshaping decision-making processes, who is involved and how risks and benefits are shared. It also means addressing global imbalances in conservation leadership. Many reef initiatives are still led by institutions from wealthy nations, even though the reefs most at risk are in developing countries. In many cases, local communities are invited to participate, but participation alone may not guarantee equity. True equity is about shifting power in leadership and making space for local communities and institutions, providing them with real authority to manage their own resources. Integrating equity into every stage of coral-bleaching managementincluding warning systems, impact assessments, stress reduction and policy decisionsnot only boosts conservation outcomes, but also ensures that efforts to save the reefs do not come at the expense of the people most dependent on them. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: AI-generated image In a story in the Buddhist canon, a grief-stricken mother named Kisa Gautami loses her only child and carries the body around town, searching for some way to resurrect the child. When she encounters the Buddha, he asks her to collect several mustard seeds from a family that has never experienced death. Not surprisingly, Kisa Gautami is unable to find a single such family. She buries her child and decides to cultivate a spiritual life. I thought of Kisa Gautami's story when I first encountered the 2020 Korean documentary "Meeting You," in which virtual reality technology is used to reunite a grieving mother, Jang Ji-sung, with her deceased 7-year-old daughter, Nayeon. While the virtual reunion was moving to witness, I wondered whether it was truly helping the mother to heal, or whether it was deepening an avoidance of grief and of the truth. Since the documentary first aired, the business of digitally resurrecting the deceased has grown significantly. People are now using AI to create "grief bots," which are simulations of deceased loved ones that the living can converse with. There has even been a case where an AI-rendered video of a deceased victim has appeared to deliver a court statement asking for the maximum sentence for the person who took their life. As a Buddhist studies scholar who has experienced several bereavements this year, I have turned to Buddhist teachings to reflect on how creating a digital afterlife for loved ones may inadvertently enhance our suffering, and what alternative ways of grieving Buddhism might offer. Buddhism's view on suffering According to Buddhist thought, the root of all suffering is clinging to illusions. This clinging creates karma that perpetuates negative cyclesfor oneself and otherswhich endure lifetimes. In Mahayana Buddhism, the path to liberate oneself from this suffering begins by becoming a bodhisattva, someone who devotes their life to the liberation of self and others. Mahayana Buddhism, which introduced the idea of celestial bodhisattvas, is the most widely practiced form of Buddhism, particularly in East Asia and the Tibetan Himalayan regions. In the "37 Practices of All the Bodhisattvas," the 14th-century author Gyelse Tokme Zangpo wrote: "The practice of all the bodhisattvas is to let go of grasping When encountering things one finds pleasant or attractive, Consider them to be like rainbows in the summer skies Beautiful in appearance, yet in truth, devoid of any substance." A digital avatar of the deceased may provide temporary comfort, but it may distort reality in an unhealthy way and intensify our attachment to an illusion. Interactions with a griefbot that responds to our every request may also diminish our memories of the deceased by creating an inauthentic version of who they were. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Grief as a catalyst for compassion In the tradition of Buddhism that I specialize in, called the Great Perfectiona tradition of Vajrayana Buddhism, which is a branch of Mahayanauncomfortable feelings such as grief are considered precious opportunities to cultivate spiritual insight. In a text called Self-liberating Meditation, a 19th century mendicant teacher of the Great Perfection known as Patrul Rinpoche wrote: "No matter what kind of thoughts arisebe they good or bad, positive or negative, happy or saddon't indulge them or reject them, but settle, without altering, in the very mind that thinks." The Great Perfection contends that all of our emotions are like temporary clouds, and that our true nature is awareness, like the blue sky behind the clouds. Grief and other challenging emotions should not be altered or suppressed but allowed to transform in their own time. In a culture where we are taught that negative emotions should be eliminated or pushed aside, not pushing away grief becomes a practice of great kindness toward oneself. By cultivating this awareness of our emotions, grief becomes a catalyst for compassion toward others. In Buddhism, compassion is the seed of awakening to the truth of interdependencethe fact that none of us exist as discreet beings but are deeply interconnected with all other beings and life forms. Communal rituals Compassion manifests outwardly in community rituals that process grief, such as the 49-day Buddhist service, common to the Great Perfection and other Buddhist traditions. Many Buddhists believe that it takes 49 days for the consciousness of the deceased to transition into their next life. During this time, the family sets up a special altar and recites prayers for the deceased, often with the support of ordained monks and nuns. Practicing generosity toward others is also recommended to accumulate merit for the deceased. These communal rituals provide much-needed outlets, time and support for processing grief and having it witnessed by others. The time and attention given to the grief process sharply contrasts to the situation in the United States, where bereavement leave is often limited to three to five days. Deepening relationship with impermanence In opting for digital avatars, we may undermine what Buddhism would consider to be critical moments for genuine transformation and connection. When I think of the family and friends who have passed away this year, I empathize with the desire to hear their voices again, or to have conversations that provide closure where there was none. Rather than turning to a technological fix that promises a reunion with the deceased, I choose to deepen my relationship with impermanence and to savor the fleeting moments that I have with those I love now. As Kisa Gautami's story shows, the desire to bring back the dead is not new, but there is great benefit in allowing grief to run its course, including a felt sense of compassion for oneself and all others who have ever experienced similar forms of grief. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Do new laws requiring corporate due diligence in supply chains harm the economy, as some business associations claim? A recent study by researchers at the Universities of Zurich and Glasgow analyzed data from more than 11,000 French companiesand found no long-term economic disadvantages for firms subject to such regulations. International NGOs have long urged companies to scrutinize their supply chains for human rights abuses and environmental violations. The goal is to ensure that suppliers do not engage in child or forced labor, pollute the environment or neglect worker safety. One tragic example is the collapse of a textile factory in Bangladesh in 2013, which killed more than 1,000 people. The factory produced garments for European fashion brands, such as Mango, C&A, Primark and KIK. In response to such incidents, France and Germany, among other countries, have enacted laws requiring corporate due diligence in supply chains. In 2024, the European Union adopted a directive on the issue. Switzerland has had a regulation in place since 2022 that covers due diligence and transparency regarding conflict minerals and child labor. French supply chain law in effect since 2017 Despite their focus on upholding basic human rights and environmental standards, due diligence laws are often criticized by business associations. They argue that such regulations impose excessive bureaucracy and high compliance costs. But do these laws actually harm companies? Christoph Steinert, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Zurich, and Bernhard Reinsberg of the University of Glasgow sought to answer this question by conducting a study of the French supply chain law enacted in 2017. It is the only law of its kind that has been in effect long enough to allow analysis of its long-term effects. The findings are published in the Review of International Political Economy. The regulation applies to all French companies and their subsidiaries with more than 5,000 employees, as well as companies headquartered in France or abroad with more than 10,000 employees. These businesses are required to implement a due diligence plan that covers all company activitiesincluding those of subcontractors and supplierswith respect to human rights, health and safety, and environmental standards. No negative impact on profit or revenue A statistical analysis of data from more than 11,000 French firms conducted by the researchers revealed no evidence suggesting that the supply chain law negatively impacted profit or revenue. The researchers compared companies just above and below the legal thresholds of 5,000 and 10,000 employees, respectively, over time. "On average, companies subject to the law were just as likely to be profitable as those not required to implement due diligence measures," explains Christoph Steinert of the Department of Political Science at the University of Zurich. While companies did incur some higher costs before the law took effectdue to necessary adjustmentsthere is no evidence of significant long-term economic harm, he notes. The researchers also found that the national supply chain law did not discourage French companies from participating in voluntary initiatives such as the UN Global Compact (UNGC). The UNGC promotes ten global principles of corporate responsibility, including respect for human rights, labor standards, environmental protection, and anti-corruption. Findings challenge industry lobby narrative Overall, the study's findings contradict the narrative promoted by many business lobbiesthat supply chain due diligence laws inevitably harm economic performance. "For instance, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has announced plans to repeal Germany's and the EU's supply chain laws in the near future," Steinert notes. "But the French example shows that it is indeed possible to combine economic success with the protection of fundamental human rights and environmental standards." More information: Bernhard Reinsberg et al, The French duty of vigilance law: reconciling human rights and firm profitability, Review of International Political Economy (2025). DOI: 10.1080/09692290.2025.2519189 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Map showing global distribution of 3,500+ study sites used in the analysis of AM fungal spore traits across diverse biomes. Credit: Map by Smriti Pehim Limbu. Many soil microbes play a vital role in ecosystems, as they help plants access nutrients and water and assist in stress tolerance, such as during drought, and to defend against pathogens. One such group of soil microbes are arbuscular mycorrhizal, aka AM, fungi. These important fungi are essential to plant health and are associated with the roots of approximately 70% of plant species on land. Through their symbiotic relationship with plant roots, the fungi contribute significantly to the carbon cycle and other processes that sustain ecosystem functioning. A fungus's spores are responsible for fungal reproduction and dispersal. And spore traits, including volume, cell wall thickness, ornamentation such as projections or depressions in the cell wall, shape, and color, can affect how well fungi survive in different environments. A new Dartmouth-led study reports on how global climate conditions affect AM fungal spore traits and the species biogeographic patterns. The study is the first to examine multiple traits of this kind on a global scale. The results are published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. "As climate change continues, we expect shifts in these microbial traits that influence how these fungi survive, spread, and interact with plants, which could have cascading effects across ecosystems, and affect restoration efforts and food production," says lead author Smriti Pehim Limbu, a postdoctoral fellow in the Ecology, Evolution, Environment & Society Program and member of the Chaudhary Ecology Lab at Dartmouth. For the study, the researchers synthesized data from different global databases of AM fungal species with climate data, to examine how climate affects the spore traits. These included TraitAMa public database of the spore traits of more than 340 AM fungi, created by senior author Bala Chaudhary, an associate professor of environmental studies at Dartmouth. "Our findings showed that spores that were bigger and darker in color were more common in warm, wet climates, but there was a trade-off between persistence and dispersal," says Pehim Limbu. "While being bigger helped the spores to persist in warm, wet conditions, these conditions were associated with a more limited geographical distribution." Spores with more cell surface ornamentation were also more common in warm, wet climates but had smaller geographic distributions. Darker spores, which have more pigment, were more common in warm, wet climates. According to the co-authors, those attributes may help protect the fungi from ultraviolet radiation and fire. Yet, cell wall thickness for spores decreased in warm, wet climates and was more robust in cooler, drier climates. Intermediate cell wall thickness was found to be associated with broader geographic distribution. Global distribution of 3,500+ study sites used in the analysis of AM fungal spore traits across diverse biomes. Map by Smriti Pehim Limbu. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. By understanding which AM fungal spore traits thrive in specific climates such as dry versus humid climatic conditions, the co-authors report that the findings could guide commercial applications of bioinoculants, microbial amendments used for soil restoration, through selection of AM fungi suited to the local environment. "Ecologists since before Darwin have been studying the geographic distribution of species' traits," says Chaudhary. "For example, we know that mammals with white fur are more likely to occur in cold climates. This study takes an important step in uncovering similar patterns for the traits of microbes, giving insight into the environmental adaptations of the majority of biodiversity on Earth." Sidney Sturmer at the Universidade Regional de Blumenau in Brazil, Geoffrey Zahn at William & Mary, Carlos Aguilar-Trigueros at University of Jyvaskyla in Finland, and Noah Rogers at Utah Valley University, also contributed to the research. More information: Smriti Pehim Limbu et al, Climate-linked biogeography of mycorrhizal fungal spore traits, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2025). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2505059122 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The instrument NIRPS is installed on the 3.6-meter telescope at La Silla Observatory in Chile. On this picture: a spectrum taken by NIRPS during preliminary tests in June 2023 of the star Proxima Centauri. Credit: Etienne Artigau An international team led by the Universities of Geneva (UNIGE) and Montreal published the first results today from the NIRPS spectrograph installed on the European Southern Observatory's (ESO) 3.6-meter telescope in La Silla, Chile. This new instrument, which operates in the near infrared, offers exceptional performance in detecting and characterizing exoplanets, particularly around red dwarfs. By combining NIRPS with the HARPS spectrograph, which operates in visible light, astronomers have access to unrivaled spectral coverage for studying exoplanets. The first five papers can be found in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics. The Near-InfraRed Planet Searcher (NIRPS) is a high-resolution spectrograph designed to search for and study exoplanets around stars smaller and cooler than our sun. Located on the 3.6-meter telescope at La Silla Observatory in Chile, NIRPS officially began scientific observations in April 2023. Its development and construction are the result of a large consortium of scientists and engineers from Canada, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal, France, and Brazil. More than 140 experts contributed to the project, including a large team from the Astronomy Department of the UNIGE Faculty of Science and the National Research Centre PlanetS. NIRPS is specially designed to observe in the near-infrared wavelengths. Next to it is the HARPS spectrograph, also designed by Swiss scientists, which has been hunting for exoplanets in visible light since 2003. "This new instrument is the result of technological innovations and the fruit of an international collaboration," says Francois Bouchy, Associate Professor at the Department of Astronomy, co-leader of the NIRPS project and lead author of the paper describing the instrument's performance and scientific objectives. "We are proud of the unique and unrivaled performance of NIRPS and excited by the first scientific results." The combination of HARPS and NIRPS offers outstanding spectral coverage for studying and searching for exoplanets. The unique performance of the HARPS+NIRPS tandem makes it one of ESO's most requested astronomical instruments of the past semester. In parallel with this first-light paper, which accompanies the commissioning and science validation of the brand-new instrument, the consortium is publishing four papers in the journal A&A with the first astrophysical results from NIRPS observations. Scrutinizing the atmosphere of exoplanets The precision of NIRPS in the near-infrared and the possibility of combining it with HARPS in the visible make it possible to study the atmospheres of planets as they pass in front of their star. For their first observations, the astronomers examined the atmospheres of two well-known gas giant exoplanets: WASP-189 b and WASP-69 b. The former has one of the most extreme atmospheres, so extreme that evaporated iron can be detected. However, it is only detected in the visible with HARPS and not in the near infrared with NIRPS. "Iron also exhibits spectral signatures in the near infrared. So we should be able to detect it with NIRPS too," explains Valentina Vaulato, Ph.D. student at the Department of Astronomy and first author of the study conducted on WASP-189 b. "Hence there must be another chemical element hiding the iron signature in the near infrared but not in the visible. The hydride aniona hydrogen atom with two electrons instead of oneis our prime suspect." NIRPS observations of the second exoplanet, WASP-69 b, reveal a long tail of helium gas escaping from its comet-like atmosphere. This observation, one of the most detailed of its kind, sheds new light on the evolution of planetary atmospheres under the effect of intense radiation from the host star. Detecting exoplanets in the infrared NIRPS' prime targets are the cool red stars known as M dwarfs, by far the most common stars in the galaxy, as they shine more brightly in the near-infrared than in the visible. In its first months of operation, scientists from the NIRPS consortium were able to confirm with unprecedented accuracy the presence of Proxima Centauri b, an Earth-like planet located in the habitable zone of the red dwarf Proxima Centauri, the closest star to our solar system. The team also found evidence of a second, less massive planet orbiting this star. NIRPS is also the only near-infrared instrument to observe our sun every day, to better understand stellar activity and how to limit its impact on the characterization of exoplanet atmospheres and the detection of Earth-like exoplanets. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain A mobile phone, a computer with an internet connection and a platform for video calls can be used in many ways inside a prison. Prisoners can use them to stay in contact with illegal activities outside the prison, or they can create stress and tension among the inmates. However, they can also reinforce prisoners' contact with their families, improve their mental health and give them the digital skills they need to re-enter society and the labor market after they leave prison. The use of the internet and digital technologies in prisons has been the subject of debate in recent years. This issue is examined in depth by Pablo Romero, a researcher in the Empirical and Applied Victimology group (VICRIM), affiliated to the management and governance research unit at the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), in his recent article "The use of online tools and Internet access in prisons: insights from Catalonia," which he co-authored with the UOC researcher Alba Marsol-Gutierrez and Professor Josep Maria Tamarit-Sumalla. In their study published in the journal Current Issues in Criminal Justice, they analyze statistical data relating to more than 1,600 inmates in Catalan prisons, and qualitative information from interviews with twelve professionals in the prison service. The role of digital technologies in prisons The first aim of the study carried out by the UOC researchers was to determine the real extent of the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in prisons in Catalonia, and the factors that facilitate or hinder access. Second, it sought to determine the opinions of professionals working in prisons regarding the impact of ICT on inmates' well-being and social reintegration, and on security in prisons. The main finding of the study is that digital tools have an important role to play in the educational programs carried out in prisons, and in how inmates experience their incarceration. "People who are more vulnerable or problematic, and particularly those living a long way from their support network or family, have more opportunities to stay in touch, and this influences their emotional well-being," explained Romero. "The vast majority of the professionals we interviewed told us that this contact is very helpful to them in terms of coping with their incarceration, but that ICT also has an important role as a training tool," the researcher added. "We only need to think about how much the world has changed in ten years, and imagine what spending that much time without touching a mobile phone or going online would be like. However, when they leave prison, inmates need to be able to use those tools in order to perform almost any task." Prisons not only need technological tools to improve inmates' digital skills, but also professionals who can teach them and guide them in their learning process. "Prison officers believe that people who are released with the skills to navigate the digital world have a much more effective reintegration process, socially and in employment," Romero said. Unequal and limited access in prisons Despite the benefits that digital technologies can have on inmates' lives, the UOC study showed that access to them is unequal and limited in Catalonia's prisons. The tools available also need to be increased and updated, as most prisons have obsolete and inadequate equipment, making work with ICT difficult. "It's important that people who want to use digital technologies for training or to stay in touch with their support network can do so, as long as they're allowed to. Access to internet-connected devices are currently limited, and many inmates are excluded. It's essential that prisons have up-to-date equipment, like in the Omnia Points network, and that those technologies are seen as one of a wide range of tools in re-socialization programs," explained Romero. The study also highlights the importance of professionals working in prisons receiving specialized training in the use and applications of ICT. "Some people think we're heading towards a prison system in which all inmates will have access to a mobile phone. In fact, it's common knowledge among professionals in the industry that the use of unauthorized devices is quite widespread," added the researcher. "And there's also a more conservative attitude, which focuses on the risks inherent in the use of ICT." The main challenge of including the use of digital technologies in prisons is ensuring that they are not used for criminal purposes, such as using a cell phone to contact someone on the outside who has taken out a restraining order against the prisoner or contacting organized crime or drug trafficking networks. Furthermore, if all inmates have digital devices, it is much easier for one inmate to quickly pass on information to the rest, which can lead to tensions and security issues within the prison itself. "Apart from the risks, we can conclude that technology plays a dual or even triple role. It acts as a means of contact between the inmate and their social network when they are far away, it is an educational tool, enabling access to online higher education programs at centers like the UOC, and finally, it provides inmates with essential digital skills for every day after their release," Romero concluded. More information: Pablo Romero-Sesena et al, The use of online tools and Internet access in prisons: insights from Catalonia, Current Issues in Criminal Justice (2025). DOI: 10.1080/10345329.2025.2502886 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Researchers have discovered that more than 80%of parasites detected in kakapo poo prior to the 1990s are no longer present in contemporary populations. Credit: Chris Birmingham Researchers from the University of Adelaide, New Zealand's Manaaki Whenua-Landcare Research and the University of Auckland have discovered that more than 80% of parasites detected in kakapo poo prior to the 1990s are no longer present in contemporary populations. The project used ancient DNA and microscopic techniques to sample feces dating back more than 1,500 years, with nine of 16 original parasite taxa disappearing prior to the 1990s, when the endangered parrot came under full-population management, and an additional four recorded as lost in the period since. "Despite their sometimes negative portrayal, parasites are increasingly appreciated for their ecological importance," says the University of Adelaide's Dr. Jamie Wood, who contributed to the study published in Current Biology. "Parasites are among the planet's most ubiquitous, successful, and species-rich groups of organisms, and nearly all free-living species harbor some parasites. They may help with immune system development and compete to exclude foreign parasites that may be more harmful to their hosts." "However, the dependence of parasites on living hosts may make them susceptible to extinction, especially as many parasites live with just one host species." An extinction of a parasite that occurs in tandem with its host is known as a secondary extinction or a coextinction, and it often happens at a faster rate than for the host animal. "Predictive models indicate that parasites may go extinct before their hosts during the coextinction process as opportunities to transmit between host individuals diminish," says Dr. Wood. "As a result, faunal declines may have a lasting impact on parasite communities, even if host populations eventually recover. "Dependent species, like parasites, are rarely preserved or documented prior to their extinction, and so until now we have had few data to indicate the actual scale of the coextinction process. "Our new research indicates that parasite extinctions may be far more prevalent than previous estimates suggest, with unknown impacts on their hosts and their ecosystems." Lead author Alexander Boast, from Manaaki Whenua-Landcare Research, was surprised at the degree of parasite loss. "The level of parasite loss in kakapo was greater than we had expected, and very few parasite species were found in both ancient and modern kakapo populations. Thus, it seems that endangered species everywhere may possess fractions of their original parasite communities," he says. As we reckon with the impacts of biodiversity loss, Dr. Wood says due attention should also be given to parasitic life. "Global rates of climate change, ecosystem modification, and biodiversity decline continue to rise, which means there is an increasingly urgent need to recognize and understand the downstream impacts on dependent species, such as parasites, mutualists, or predators," he says. "Documenting parasite extinction, how quickly it can unfold, and estimating the number of presently threatened parasites are key first steps toward a 'global parasite conservation plan' and supporting informed predictions for past, present, and future parasite losses." More information: Alexander P. Boast et al, Long-term parasite decline associated with near extinction and conservation of the critically endangered kakapo parrot, Current Biology (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.07.009 Journal information: Current Biology This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin speaks, as he tours Nucor Steel Berkeley with US Vice President JD Vance, in Huger, South Carolina, on May 1, 2025. President Donald Trump's administration on Tuesday moved to reverse a foundational scientific determination that underpins the US government's authority to limit greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles and, more broadly, to combat climate change. Speaking at an auto dealership in Indianapolis, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin argued that the 2009 Endangerment Finding was based on flawed reasoning and had inflicted serious economic harm. "If finalized, today's announcement would amount to the largest deregulatory action in the history of the United States," said the former Republican congressman. He was joined by Energy Secretary Chris Wright, a former fracking company CEO, whose department published a climate science study cited in the EPA action. The proposed reversalfirst announced in Marchwill be subject to a 45-day public comment period and is certain to face legal challenges. While Zeldin cast the move as a way to undo what he called the "Biden-Harris administration's electric vehicle (EV) mandate," revoking the Endangerment Finding could also unravel the legal basis for a wide array of climate regulations, including those on power plants and oil and gas operations. In his remarks, Zeldin accused the EPA under former president Barack Obama, a Democrat, of making "mental leaps" in determining that heat-trapping gases posed a threat to public health and welfare. The EPA said in a press release that the finding had "been used to justify over $1 trillion in regulations" and undoing it would save $54 billion annually. A 302-page document outlining the rationale for the revocation makes a number of bold claims around climate science, including the assertion that "extreme weather events have not demonstrably increased relative to historical highs," citing the Energy Department report. It also speaks about the "beneficial impacts" of carbon emissions on plant growth and agricultural productivity. The Endangerment Finding was grounded in overwhelming scientific consensus and peer-reviewed research. It followed a landmark 2007 Supreme Court ruling that found greenhouse gases qualify as air pollutants under the Clean Air Act and directed the EPA to revisit its position. Transportation accounts for 28% of US greenhouse gas emissionsmore than any other sector. If it were a country, the US transportation sector would rank as the fourth largest emitter of greenhouse gases globally, while the power sector would be fifth. Legal battle looms Environmental groups and states are expected to swiftly sue. The case could ultimately reach the Supreme Court, which may need to overturn its own 2007 precedent to side with the current Republican administration. Dan Becker of the Center for Biological Diversity told AFP the Endangerment Finding has survived multiple legal challenges by industry over the years, "but this time, it's the government itself mounting the attack." "Hopefully they will recognize that this is science and not politicsthat there was a good reason for that precedent and no good reason to revoke it," said Becker. "But this is a very political court." He added that the administration's cost-saving arguments were misleading, pointing to official data showing that rules now targeted for repeal saved the average American driver $6,000 in fuel and maintenance over the lifetime of vehicles built under the standards. Camille Pannu, an environmental law specialist at Columbia University, told AFP the Trump administration had failed to present robust legal arguments grounded in scientific evidence in its proposal. "I think they're hoping they can just refuse to regulate for four years and do crazy things during that time while it's all tied up in court," she said. Since returning to office, Trump has withdrawn the US from the Paris Agreement and launched a sweeping campaign to expand fossil fuel development. The announcement comes as tens of millions of Americans are baking under a brutal heat dome in the Southeast, while climate-fueled flooding earlier this month killed more than 100 people in Texas. 2025 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: ACS Nano (2025). DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.5c05845 Physicists at Osnabruck University have examined individual water molecules on the calcite surface in more detail. Their findings, published in the journal ACS Nano, are relevant for climate and environmental protection. Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth and plays a central role in natural and technical processes. "By understanding how water interacts with the calcite surface, we can better answer important scientific and socially relevant questionsfrom climate protection and environmental protection to the development of new materials," explains Osnabruck physicist Dr. Philipp Rahe. Using a particularly sensitive technique, high-resolution atomic force microscopy, the Osnabruck researchers have succeeded in imaging the arrangement and orientation of individual water molecules on the surface of calcite. To do this, an atomically sharp tip with a single carbon monoxide molecule attached to its end point is brought close to the water-covered calcite surface. The force acting on this tip is caused very locally and enables measurements with extremely high sensitivity and resolution on a subatomic scale. These forces are mapped by scanning the surface line by line, thereby creating an image of the atomic structure. "During the experiments on individual water molecules, we observed very early on that there appear to be two types of water molecules on the calcite surface. This was astonishing, as no difference between these water molecules had previously been observed in the literature in a closed water layer," says Dr. Rahe, in whose junior research group "Molecular Quantum Structures" at the School of Physics the experiments were carried out. "We first had to carry out some developments in preliminary experiments, such as a special sample holder and special measurement protocols, in order to be able to carry out these investigations of individual water molecules," adds Dr. Jonas Heggemann, the first author of the study. Dr. Philipp Rahe (left) and Dr. Jonas Heggemann in front of the scanning probe microscope. Credit: Vivienne Vent Dr. Rahe and his team recently clarified the structure of the calcite surface and identified a surface reconstruction, i.e., a rearrangement of the atoms in the uppermost layer of the surface. This reconstruction results in two different positions where water can bind to the surface. "The amazing thing about this system is that the water cancels out the difference between these two positions, it literally pulls on part of the surface atoms," explains Dr. Rahe. In collaboration with Prof. Adam Foster and Jie Huang from the University of Aalto in Finland, this process was precisely understood in the current study using ab-initio simulations. While the binding of water at the first position is accompanied by only a minimal change in the surface, at the second position the surface atoms move from the reconstructed structure back to the original crystal structure. This process is caused by a single water molecule and requires energy. Therefore, water binds differently to these two positions, although the local geometry is identical. More information: Jonas Heggemann et al, Sidestepping Intermolecular Hydrogen Bonds: How Single Water Molecules Adsorb and Assemble on the Calcite(104)(2 1) Surface, ACS Nano (2025). DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.5c05845 Journal information: ACS Nano After 30 years on Clearwater Beach, White Sand Salon hairstylists are celebrating its grand opening in downtown Clearwater on July 31, following Hurricane Milton. Owner Lori Fudens preserved every full-time hairstylist's job and has since relocated, marking a bold comeback. The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector and City Council members in attendance. 517 S Ft Harrison Avenue Clearwater, Florida 33756 is the new address. CLEARWATER, Fla., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- After facing closures and destruction in their neighborhood from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, combined with the challenges of relocating, a team of hair stylists led by Lori Fudens are thrilled to announce the official grand opening of a new hair salon location in downtown Clearwater. The salon will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, July 31, at 4:30 PM, featuring special guests, Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector and members of the City Council. Formerly of Sharmaine's Salon & Day Spa, Fudens made the difficult but strategic decision to relocate inland after years of hurricane disruptions, lease concerns, and rising costs in the beach area. Remarkably, the team retained all full-time hair employees during the transition and opened within just three days of the beach location closure under the new name: White Sand Salon Clearwater. "We refused to let our team go or shut the doors permanently," said owner Fudens, who co-owns the salon with her sister, Angie. "Instead, we rebranded, moved to high ground, and created something even better a fresh, modern space with new services and more room to grow." A 30-Year Legacy, Tested by Storm Forced to pivot by Hurricane Milton after 30 years on Clearwater Beach , Lori Fudens boldly relocated inlandretaining her full-time team and opening as White Sand Hair Salon Clearwater. Forced to pivot by Hurricane Milton after 30 years on , boldly relocated inlandretaining her full-time team and opening as White Sand Hair Salon Clearwater. Pivot, Expand, Thrive Rather than vanish, White Sand Salon relocated inland. In the new location, Fudens has kept every full-time stylist on payroll, refusing layoffs during the toughest recovery months. Rather than vanish, White Sand Salon relocated inland. In the new location, Fudens has kept every full-time stylist on payroll, refusing layoffs during the toughest recovery months. Symbol of American Grit "We lost our beachfront facade, not our heart," said Fudens. "We stayed committedto our people and our clients. That's the American spirit in action." The new location is a statement of resilience: modern amenities, state-of-the-art styling spaces, and a vibrant staff ready to welcome loyal customers and newcomers alike. "We lost our beachfront facade, not our heart," said Fudens. "We stayed committedto our people and our clients. That's the American spirit in action." The new location is a statement of resilience: modern amenities, state-of-the-art styling spaces, and a vibrant staff ready to welcome loyal customers and newcomers alike. Community Commitment The new location features modern styling stations, complimentary parking, and an upgraded service menu that includes advanced hair color, extensions, and the increasingly popular Japanese Head Spa treatment. The salon's revival reflects not only the determination not to close permanently, but also its deep roots in the Clearwater community and commitment to client care, premium products, and the latest in education and updates. GRAND REOPENING Date: Thursday, July 31, 2025 Time: 4:30 PM Location: 517 S. Fort Harrison Ave., Downtown Clearwater, FL 33755 The City of Clearwater will honor the occasion with an official ribbon cutting. Mayor Bruce Rector and Clearwater City Council members will attend to salute White Sand's commitment to local jobs and post-hurricane economic recovery. A COMEBACK WORTH CELEBRATING Fudens did more than rebuild a business; she reaffirmed community. By keeping most of her team intact and expanding through adversity, she's not just styling hair, she's restoring hope. White Sand Salon invites the media and the public to celebrate resilience: enjoy live music, light bites, salon giveaways, and the opportunity to meet Lori Fudens and her dedicated team. About White Sand Salon White Sand Hair Salon is a trailblazing, woman & family-owned salon redefining the beauty experience through advanced styling, expert color services, and personalized client care. Powered by a passionate, high-performance team and a fiercely loyal following, White Sand blends innovation with hospitality to set a new standard for Florida salons. Now thriving in its downtown Clearwater location, the salon continues to lead with creativity, resilience, and cutting-edge service. Learn more at https://whitesandsalon.com. About Lori Fudens Lori Fudens is a master stylist, Redken educator, and owner of White Sand Salon in Clearwater, FL. With more than 25 years of experience, she's known for her advanced skills in hair design, smoothing treatments, and extensions. A longtime industry mentor, Lori trains stylists nationwide while leading her salon with grit and vision. After Hurricane Milton, she reopened as White Sand, proving her commitment to her team, her craft, and her community. Media Inquiries: Karla Jo Helms JOTO PR 727-777-4619 jotopr.com SOURCE White Sand Hair Salon Clearwater This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A small portion of the study area, zoomed in to show detail: (A) aerial imagery from NAIP RGB (redgreenblue; naked eye view); (B) visual of values in most important NAIP input for model training; (C) visual of values in most important NEON input for model training; (DF) visuals of RF-classified models for all three images.Credit: Remote Sensing (2025). DOI: 10.3390/rs17132224 Hikers on the Konza Prairie may look up this summer and see something unusual in the air. K-State researchers are employing aerial data in their mission to understand and manage the rapid spread of woody plants across the Great Plains. Known as woody encroachment, the transformation of open grasslands into shrub and tree-dominated landscapes is impacting biodiversity, livestock forage, water resources and even wildfire risk. "Woody encroachment is a pattern that is happening in grasslands all around the world, where areas that used to be grasses, wildflowers and other herbaceous species are seeing a rapid and large increase in shrubs and trees," said Zak Ratajczak, assistant professor of biology at K-State. "That's not to say that all of these changes are negative, but in a lot of these grassy ecosystems, shrubs and trees move in and change things drastically." Remote sensing meets machine learning A machine-learning produced aerial of a prairie shows the canopy height of plants, blue representing low canopy, green showing taller plants and yellow showing the tallest. Published in the open-access journal Remote Sensing, a study led by K-State master's students Brynn Noble and Ratajczak offers a cost-effective, open-access approach to detecting woody encroachment across landscapes as small as six-by-six feet. The system combines aerial imagery from federal programs with ground-based data collected by K-State researchers. Zak Ratajczak and his lab get a closer look at one of the planes that collects the data used by their lab. Credit: Zak Ratajczak, Kansas State University "We're at the point where we can say if that area is a grassland, if it's a shrub, if it's a tree or if it's an evergreen tree with around 97% accuracy," Ratajczak said. "Meaning that 97% of the time we say that pixel is this type of vegetation, we're getting it right." The accuracy is made possible through a unique combination of resources: access to consistent, high-resolution aerial data through the USDA and National Science Foundation; the computational power of open-source machine learning; and large training datasets collected through fieldwork at the Konza Prairie Biological Stationmuch of it done by undergraduate and graduate students. The high-resolution aerial data are collected using LiDAR and multispectral imagery from aircraft equipped with advanced sensors. These sensors provide detailed, three-dimensional views of the landscape, capturing both the structure and composition of vegetation to monitor changes like woody encroachment with exceptional precision. Ratajczak said most people are familiar with how these machine learning models work, even if they don't realize it. "If you've ever been presented with a series of photos and asked to click all the tiles that show a crosswalk or bus, then you have participated in machine learning of images," Ratajczak said. "Computers can learn to find important features in on-the-ground or aerial photos, but to do so accurately, they need to have lots of training samples to learn the types of patterns to pick. Just as importantly, they need samples to teach them what features to disregard. "For instance, in early versions of this project, the computer was thinking that the deep shadows behind trees were miniature evergreen trees, when they were really just shadows." To do this accurately takes thousands of samples, which is where K-State students and the Konza Prairie come in. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. A training ground for technologyand students The researchers developed the classification models using data from the Konza Prairie, a long-term ecological research site jointly managed by K-State and The Nature Conservancy. "In this relatively small area of about 10 square miles, we have a lot of the major vegetation types that you find across eastern Kansas," Ratajczak said. "And when we're trying to train a computer to find a diverse array of vegetation types, that's an invaluable resource." That means researchersincluding studentscan quickly validate or correct model predictions based on firsthand knowledge of the landscape. The students gather training data for the models and get experience working with a Geographic Information System, or GIS, and computer coding along the way. One of those students is Brynn Noble, who co-led the research study. Her work alongside Ratajczak has made a major contribution to what the team hopes will become a regional, if not statewide, mapping tool. "One of the catalysts for applying to expand this work beyond our site in Kansas is that federally and state-funded aerial campaigns are gathering this data, doing the really hard steps, and then making it free to the public, including us. We wouldn't have been able to do this without that data from NSF and the USDA," Ratajczak said. Impacts beyond the prairie The implications go far beyond classification. "Now that we have these accurate measures of shrubs taking over grassy areas, we can estimate how many cattle or bison an area can realistically support in the long term," Ratajczak said. "These data points have fed into our calculations of carrying capacity for our bison herd, and we adjust it accordingly." Other teams at K-State have used the same woody vegetation maps to assess fire risk, habitat selection by birds and small mammals, and even tick-borne disease exposure. "This has been an unexpected turn for us. We're on a lot of manuscripts about stream flow and bird diversity," Ratajczak said. "We were part of a study led by Katy Silber and Alice Boyle, showing that when a small amount of woody cover moves inwhich we're able to detect with the data from these airplanesthe grasshopper sparrows' use of the habitat starts to drop off. They just don't really live there for the most part anymore." This occurrence is not just unique to bird species. Woody encroachment impacts a variety of habitats and will ultimately affect even more species. An eye toward the future Ratajczak said he hopes to share the resources through a website or an app for regional early-warning systems. Eventually, the team envisions partnerships with landowners to gather additional training data and refine their models. "If someone finds that we're getting it wrong, we want to know that so that we can update our models," Ratajczak said. "Our long-term goal is to start using satellite data to cover a larger area and project what we do into the past and the future." For now, this technologybuilt from open-source toolsis already making an impact in grassland conservation. "This is real-world, transferable skill development," Ratajczak said. "And it's helping to increase our understanding of one of the major environmental challenges in grasslands." More information: Brynn Noble et al, Combining Open-Source Machine Learning and Publicly Available Aerial Data (NAIP and NEON) to Achieve High-Resolution High-Accuracy Remote Sensing of GrassShrubTree Mosaics, Remote Sensing (2025). DOI: 10.3390/rs17132224 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Despite the global nature of research, most published studies originate from a small number of institutions and countries, largely due to external factors such as greater financial resources, robust research infrastructure and established scientific communities. Angel Ford, assistant professor in the Department of Information Sciences and Technology at the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity, is working to change that. Her research is closely tied to areas of equity, both within the United States and around the world. In a recent study published in the Journal of the Association for Information Science and Technology, Ford and her co-author, Daniel Alemneh of the University of North Texas, dive into the topic of inclusive scholarly communication. Their paper examines the unique challenges faced by researchers from low- and middle-income countries and proposes innovative solutions for a more equitable and healthier scholarly communication system. In this interview, she discusses the study and the importance of equitable knowledge sharing. Much of your research is focused on equity in education and research. How did you get into this work? As a first-generation high-school graduate, I have long held the conviction that education possesses transformative potential, particularly when individuals are guided to pursue areas of personal interest that also meaningfully contribute to society. This belief has motivated my involvement in understanding and committing to equitable education. My research agenda evolved significantly during my time as a Fulbright scholar in Ethiopia (20192020), where I deepened my engagement with scholarly inquiry. That experience, along with ongoing collaborations, has exposed me to the lived realities of scholars operating in geopolitical contexts outside the dominant centers of academic production. Researchers in low- and middle-income countries frequently encounter barriers that hinder their ability to access existing literature, conduct original research, and disseminate their findings within global academic networks. While disparities in research production and access are well documented, I contend that a more nuanced understanding of these inequities requires centering the voices of scholars themselves. By investigating and highlighting their experiences, we can begin to reimagine the global information ecosystem in ways that promote greater equity, inclusivity and intellectual diversity. Your new study examines equity in the global research community. Why do researchers from low- and middle-income countries struggle to engage in scholarly communication? Even scholars based in high-income countries and affiliated with well-resourced institutions encounter challenges when attempting to participate in scholarly communication through presenting at international conferences and publishing in highly regarded peer-reviewed journals. These endeavors are not meant to be easy. They are challenging to encourage and maintain highly rigorous work. However, challenges are often magnified for scholars living and working in LMICs, whose experiences warrant focused attention to better understand and address the barriers and inequities they face. Our study investigates three critical dimensions of scholarly communication: access to the current body of academic knowledge; the capacity to conduct rigorous and relevant research; and the ability to disseminate findings through academic conferences and peer-reviewed publications. Across each of these domains, scholars in LMICs face a long list of barriers, includingbut not limited tofinancial constraints, infrastructural limitations, and restricted access to digital resources. While some of these impediments are readily identifiable, others remain obscured and underexplored. Capturing the lived experiences of LMIC scholars is essential to illuminating these lesser-known challenges and identifying strategies for fostering a more inclusive and equitable global research ecosystem. By centering the voices of those most affected, this work aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors that shape scholarly participation and to inform policy and practice across disciplines. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. How can the global scholarly community better address imbalances that prevent researchers from achieving equality? Through direct engagement with scholars from LMICs, we seek to understand their experiences. In addition to documenting barriers, we ask scholars to tell us what changes they believe would enhance their ability to participate in global academic discourse. Their insights reveal a range of potential interventions that can be undertaken by the global scholarly community, both individually and collectively. These include citing and referencing research produced by scholars outside core research countries; promoting open-access publishing to eliminate financial barriers to knowledge consumption; fostering equitable research partnerships in which all scholars are recognized as equal contributors; and ensuring inclusive representation in academic conferences, planning committees, and editorial boards of international journals. While this list is nowhere near exhaustive, each initiative represents a meaningful step toward cultivating a more equitable and inclusive global information ecosystem. By centering the perspectives of underrepresented scholars, we aim to contribute to a broader reimagining of scholarly communication that values diversity, equity, and mutual respect. You spent last summer in Tanzania, working to improve teachers' learning environments. Can you share more about that experience and similar work you've done abroad? In the summer of 2024, as a Fulbright specialist, I conducted teacher training in Pemba, Zanzibar (Tanzania), focusing on competency-based education and the development of inclusive classroom practices. This initiative was supported by the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam. The Embassy also facilitated academic collaboration with scholars at Mkwawa University College of Education and the Institute of Rural Development Planning. Together, we are currently engaged in data collection and analysis to examine the experiences of Tanzanian scholars within the broader context of global academic engagement. At the same time, I began collaborating with faculty at Muteesa I Royal University in Uganda, where I visited and led a workshop on academic research and writing in October 2024. This partnership has since evolved into a broader research initiative, with colleagues collecting data on the experiences of scholars across Uganda. In addition to these efforts, I am actively working with academic partners in Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, and Jamaica, with a goal of expanding this research network to include additional countries in the coming months and years. These collaborations reflect a growing commitment to understanding and addressing the systemic barriers faced by scholars in diverse geopolitical contexts. How does this study connect to your work as director of CEHC's Global Epistemic Justice Lab? This new study fits into the central focus of the Global Epistemic Justice Lab. It aims to highlight the structural and contextual factors shaping scholars' experiences, as well as the personal and professional consequences of these factors. Much like critical race theory and feminist theory have provided foundational lenses for research across disciplines, this emerging critical perspective aspires to serve as a conceptual anchor for ongoing investigations into epistemic injustice and scholarly marginalization across diverse geopolitical contexts. As director of the Global Epistemic Justice Lab, I actively engage undergraduate, master's, and doctoral students in this work. Their contributions have been instrumental in deepening our understanding of regional dynamics and the complexities of global knowledge production. I am particularly enthusiastic about the upcoming academic year, which will include the publication of findings from several country-specific studies currently underway. More information: Angel Y. Ford et al, Inclusive global scholarly communication: Toward a just and healthier information ecosystem, Journal of the Association for Information Science and Technology (2024). DOI: 10.1002/asi.24899 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Researchers find that all Arabica coffee develop colors in the same way during the roasting process. Credit: MarkSweep/Wikimedia Commons. commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Roasted_coffee_beans.jpg. A new study in Scientific Reports reveals that all Arabica coffee follows the same color development pattern during roasting, potentially transforming quality control and industry standards. For a long time, coffee roasting has blended science with artistry, as skilled roasters depend on visual, auditory, and olfactory cues to pinpoint the ideal roast. However, new research from the UC Davis Coffee Center has uncovered something remarkable. Despite wildly different roasting profiles, techniques, and coffee origins, all Arabica coffee follows the same universal color curve as it transforms from green bean to dark roast. The study establishes a mathematical relationship that could finally bring objective, quantitative standards to an industry that has relied on subjective assessments for decades. The findings emerge from the most comprehensive study of commercial-scale coffee roasting color dynamics ever conducted. Phys.org spoke to corresponding author Irwin R. Donis-Gonzalez, Associate Professor of Cooperative Extension in Postharvest Engineering at the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering at UC Davis. "Since I started working in postharvest, I've been truly fascinated by the significance of color," said Donis-Gonzalez. "Color isn't just about appearance; it's a key indicator of quality for many products, including coffee." Breaking down the roasting mystery The researchers addressed a missing piece in our scientific understanding of coffee. Although color has long been considered vital for assessing roast level and quality, there has been surprisingly little understanding of how roasting variables such as temperature and time in commercial roasters affect color development. Most earlier studies relied on basic laboratory ovens set to constant temperatures, which do not reflect the complex and changing conditions found in commercial roasting. The UC Davis team took an entirely different approach. "We established the roast profiles based on comprehensive sources, including scientific literature, prior practical experience, and established industry guidelines," explained Donis-Gonzalez. "Using a commercial drum roaster, we systematically varied the temperature ramp ratesalso known as rates of riseto observe their effects on coffee color development throughout the entire roasting process." The researchers tested seven dramatically different roasting profiles, each lasting exactly 16 minutes but with vastly different energy dynamics, from "fast start" profiles with high initial heat to "slow start" approaches with gradual temperature increases. They sampled the roasting coffee every single minute, creating an unprecedented high-resolution picture of how color develops throughout the process. Pictures showing the color of the ground coffee samples for the seven roast profiles using the washed Ugandan coffee (USF). Credit: Scientific Reports (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-06601-w The science behind the curve The most striking discovery came when the team plotted their color measurements in the L*a*b* color space. The L*a*b* color space is a scientific color system designed to match human visual perception. The L* coordinate represents lightness, while a* covers the green-to-red spectrum and b* spans blue-to-yellow hues. "The L*a*b* color space is particularly adequate for quantifying roast color development because it can detect subtle variations that might be missed by the human eye, ensuring reliable evaluation across different lighting conditions and reducing subjective bias," said Donis-Gonzalez. Regardless of whether they used fast, slow, or medium roasting profiles, and whether the coffee came from Uganda, Indonesia, or El Salvador, every single sample followed the same fundamental pathway in the L*a*b* color space. The researchers could describe this "universal roasted coffee color curve" with precise mathematical equations. Their polynomial equations could predict one color coordinate from another with over 93% accuracy. The relationship between the lightness (L*) and the red-green (a*) coordinates explained 93.4% of color variance, while the lightness and blue-yellow (b*) relationships accounted for 97.7%. This consistency suggests that the fundamental chemical processes occurring during roastingprimarily Maillard reactions that create the brown colors and flavors associated with roasted coffeefollow predictable pathways regardless of the specific conditions used to drive them. Even more surprisingly, despite different timing and dynamics, all coffees reached virtually identical color values at major roasting milestones such as color change, first crack, and second crack, which are the key stages roasters use to judge roast development. "The industry was initially unaware of a key finding from our study. Despite variations in roast profile dynamics that affect roast color development, the coffees consistently display roughly the same L*a*b* color values at important roast milestones," noted Donis-Gonzalez. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Validating universality across the globe To verify their findings weren't limited to their specific setup, the researchers conducted a systematic review following rigorous scientific protocols. The research team analyzed color data from 20 different publications spanning various roasting methods, equipment types, and coffee origins. That's a total of 392 distinct measurements. The validation was remarkable. Most existing data aligned perfectly with their universal curve, with 86% of data points showing no perceptible color differences from the predicted values. "A systematic review was essential in confirming the existence of a universal color curve for Arabica coffee," said Donis-Gonzalez. "We were especially surprised by the consistency, which underscores the shared characteristics in coffee color development regardless of origin or processing method." The universality even extended beyond coffee. Data from bread baking, another process involving Maillard browning reactions, also followed similar color relationships, suggesting the curve might apply to other food processing applications. Looking to the future Currently, there are no universally accepted standards for terms like "light roast," "medium roast," or "dark roast." One roaster's light roast might be darker than another's "dark roast," creating confusion for consumers and inconsistencies throughout the supply chain. "This universal coffee color curve can help standardize roast-level definitions industry-wide by providing an objective, measurable way to assess roast levels through color analysis," explained Donis-Gonzalez. The practical applications extend far beyond standardization. Roasters could use the universal curve for real-time quality control, knowing exactly where their coffee sits on the universal color pathway regardless of their specific roasting profile. The research team is now working to connect their L*a*b* measurements with existing roast level scales, such as Agtron and Colorette, ensuring the universal curve can be used with current industry equipment. "We can now present the universal roasted coffee color to industry professionals, who, through systematic surveys, can assist in categorizing and naming the colors of roasted coffee based on their experience and industry standards," said Donis-Gonzalez. Written for you by our author Tejasri Gururaj, edited by Sadie Harley, and fact-checked and reviewed by Robert Eganthis article is the result of careful human work. We rely on readers like you to keep independent science journalism alive. If this reporting matters to you, please consider a donation (especially monthly). You'll get an ad-free account as a thank-you. More information: Laudia Anokye-Bempah et al, A universal color curve for roasted arabica coffee, Scientific Reports (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-06601-w Journal information: Scientific Reports 2025 Science X Network This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain With the final round of UN negotiations on a global plastics treaty fast approaching, a group of over 60 leading scientists from around the world has issued an urgent call for governments to agree on ambitious, enforceable action to tackle plastic pollution, such as reducing plastic production and prioritizing human health. The letters, published in the journal Cambridge Prisms: Plastics in the run-up to the resumed session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2), warn that the plastics crisis has become a defining environmental, health, and social justice issue of our time. "This is not just a call for action, this is the scientific community bearing witness," said Professor Steve Fletcher, Editor-in-Chief of Cambridge Prisms: Plastics and Director of the Revolution Plastics Institute. "We've watched the evidence pile up for decades. This treaty is a test of whether the world is prepared to govern plastics in a way that reflects the scale and urgency of the crisis." The authors argue that the stakes at INC-5.2 could not be higher: this is the world's best opportunity to secure a binding agreement that tackles plastic pollution across its entire lifecycle. The open letters provide a coherent evidence-based roadmap for treaty negotiators. Key demands include: Legally binding targets to cap and reduce plastic production. Phase-out of toxic additives and chemicals in plastics. Global health safeguards to protect human health. Structural inclusion of affected communities in treaty design and implementationespecially Indigenous Peoples, informal waste workers, and fence line communities. Independent scientific oversight insulated from corporate lobbying and greenwashing. Robust financing and compliance mechanisms to ensure treaty enforcement and support for low-and middle-income countries. Many letters warn that low-ambition countries and industry lobbying risk derailing progress. The politicization of science in treaty negotiations is another central concern raised in the letters. Several contributors warn that without the meaningful inclusion of those most affected by plastic pollution, the treaty will fall short. They call for the structural involvement of Indigenous Peoples, small island states, women, young people, informal waste workers, and residents of pollution hotspots, not as afterthoughts, but as key voices in setting the agenda and shaping implementation. Professor Max Liboiron, Department of Geography, Memorial University, Canada, said, "The current draft of the Global Plastics Treaty falls short by excluding Indigenous Peoples from decision-making roles while incorporating their knowledge in ways that are disconnected from their rights. This is not simply a call for "inclusion"; it is a call for governance infrastructure." Professor Tony Walker, School for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Canada, said, "Subsidies and inadequate pricing of externalities have a major role in sustaining the current linear plastic economy, and thus preventing a needed transition towards a more circular economy, which focus on reducing consumption of plastics, phasing out single use plastics and provide a pathway towards a more regenerative and restorative plastic economy." The letters highlight the mounting evidence that plastic pollution is a health crisis. Microplastics and nanoplastics have been found throughout the human body. These exposures disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including Indigenous Peoples, waste workers, fence line communities, women, and children, groups who are least protected by regulation and often excluded from decision-making forums. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Dr. Cressida Bowyer, Deputy Director of the Revolution Plastics Institute at the University of Portsmouth, said, "There is clear and growing evidence that plastic poses serious risks to human health. Yet the approach to health protection in the treaty still hangs in the balance. In order to operationalize the global plastics treaty objective to "protect human health and the environment from plastic pollution" the treaty must directly address human health impacts in the core obligations of the treaty." The authors call for cumulative risk assessment, exposure monitoring, and transparent chemical regulation. They remind negotiators that the costs of inaction are not abstract, but can be counted in cancers, reproductive harms, and respiratory conditions. Susanne Brander, Associate Professor, Oregon State University, U.S., said, "Incorporating strategic and robust global controls on hazardous chemicals in the plastic treaty is essential to protect human and environmental health, reduce societal costs, and ensure safer and more sustainable plastic chemicals and products. Chemicals of concern are currently intrinsic to plastics and largely unregulated." Others argue that trade remains a largely overlooked yet indispensable element in shaping an effective and equitable agreement. Trade, spanning plastic feedstocks, resins, products, and waste, forms the connective tissue of the plastics economy and must be embedded in the treaty's architecture. Professor Maria Ivanova, Northeastern University, U.S., said, "To be effective, the global plastics treaty must address the realworld architecture of the plastics economy, where trade is the connective tissue. At INC-5.2, negotiators must seize the opportunity to design a treaty that is both environmentally ambitious and structurally sound. Trade must be reimagined as a tool for transformation. If trade is the connective tissue of the plastics crisis, it must also be part of the cure." An ambitious treaty has backing from over 100 countries. Yet INC-5.2 arrives after prolonged delays, consensus deadlock, and obstruction by a handful of low-ambition states. The letters argue that the treaty's credibility and effectiveness now hinge on political courage, not scientific uncertainty. "The scientific consensus is clear," added Professor Fletcher. "The only question is whether governments will respond. This treaty could be transformative but only if it avoids the traps of voluntary commitments and techno-fixes. This is the world's last chance to act boldly." The full collection of open letters is now available to journalists, negotiators, and policymakers ahead of the final treaty talks in August. More information: Max Liboiron, How to incorporate the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) in the Global Plastics Treaty, Cambridge Prisms: Plastics (2025). DOI: 10.1017/plc.2025.10003 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A specialist examines crawling creatures collected from clandestine graves as part of a research project to help locate missing people, in Guadalajara, Mexico, Friday, July 11, 2025. Credit: AP Photo/Alejandra Leyva First the scientists dress dead swine in clothes, then they dispose of the carcasses. Some they wrap in packing tape, others they chop up. They stuff the animals into plastic bags or wrap them in blankets. They cover them in lime or burn them. Some are buried alone, others in groups. Then they watch. The pigs are playing an unlikely role as proxies for humans in research to help find the staggering number of people who have gone missing in Mexico during decades of drug cartel violence. Families of the missing are usually left to look for their loved ones with little support from authorities. But now, government scientists are testing the newest satellite, geophysical and biological mapping techniquesalong with the pigsto offer clues that they hope could lead to the discovery of at least some of the bodies. 130,000 missing and counting The ranks of Mexico's missing exploded in the years following the launch of then-President Felipe Calderon's war against drug cartels in 2006. A strategy that targeted the leaders of a handful of powerful cartels led to a splintering of organized crime and the multiplication of violence to control territory. With near complete impunity, owing to the complicity or inaction of the authorities, cartels found that making anyone they think is in their way disappear was better than leaving bodies in the street. Mexican administrations have sometimes been unwilling to recognize the problem and at other times are staggered by the scale of violence their justice system is unprepared to address. Mexico's disappeared could populate a small city. Official data in 2013 tallied 26,000 missing, but the count now surpasses 130,000more than any other Latin American nation. The United Nations has said there are indications that the disappearances are "generalized or systematic." A view of a burial site of pig carcasses that are proxies for humans in research to help find people who have gone missing in Mexico during decades of drug cartel violence, in Zapopan, Mexico, Friday, July 11, 2025. Credit: AP Photo/Alejandra Leyva If the missing people are founddead or aliveit is usually by their loved ones. Guided by information from witnesses, parents and siblings search for graves by walking through cartel territory, plunging a metal rod into the earth and sniffing for the scent of death. Around 6,000 clandestine graves have been found since 2007, and new discoveries are made all the time. Tens of thousands of remains have yet to be identified. Testing creative solutions Jalisco, which is home to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, has the largest number of people reported missing in Mexico: 15,500. In March, human bone fragments and hundreds of items of clothing were discovered at a cartel ranch in the state. Authorities denied it was the site of a mass grave. Jose Luis Silvan, a coordinator of the mapping project and scientist at CentroGeo, a federal research institute focused on geospacial information, said Jalisco's disappeared are "why we're here." The mapping project, launched in 2023, is a collaboration by Guadalajara University, Mexico's National Autonomous University and the University of Oxford in England, alongside the Jalisco Search Commission, a state agency that organizes local searches with relatives. "No other country is pushing so strongly, so creatively" to test and combine new techniques, said Derek Congram, a Canadian forensic anthropologist, whose expertise in geographic information systems inspired the Mexican project. Still, Congram warns, technology "is not a panacea." "Ninety percent of searches are resolved with a good witness and digging," he said. A specialist examines insects collected from clandestine graves in Jalisco, which are currently being studied as part of a research project to help find people who have gone missing in Mexico during decades of drug cartel violence, in Guadalajara, Mexico, Friday, July 11, 2025. Credit: AP Photo/Alejandra Leyva Plants, insects and decomposing pigs Silvan walks by a site where scientists buried 14 pigs about two years ago. He says they may not know how well the technology works, where and when it can be used, or under what conditions, for at least three years. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. "Flowers came up because of the phosphorous at the surface, we didn't see that last year," he said as he took measurements at one of the gravesites. "The mothers who search say that that little yellow flower always blooms over the tombs and they use them as a guide." Pigs and humans are closely related, famously sharing about 98% of DNA. But for the mapping project, the physical similarities also matter. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, pigs resemble humans in size, fat distribution and the structure and thickness of skin. A big Colombian drone mounted with a hyperspectral camera flies over the pig burial site. Generally used by mining companies, the camera measures light reflected by substances in the soil, including nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and shows how they vary as the pigs decompose. The colorful image it produces offers clues of what to look for in the hunt for graves. "This isn't pure science," Silvan said. "It is science and action. Everything learned has to be applied immediately, rather than wait for it to mature, because there's urgency." Researchers also employ thermal drones, laser scanners and other gadgets to register anomalies, underground movements and electrical currents. One set of graves is encased behind a pane of transparent acrylic, providing a window for scientists to observe the pigs' decomposition in real time. The Jalisco commission compares and analyzes flies, beetles, plants and soil recovered from the human and pig graves. Each grave is a living "micro ecosystem," said Tunuari Chavez, the commission's director of context analysis. A member of the State Commission for the Search for Missing Persons collects insects within the experimental grounds in order to gather information and improve the location of clandestine graves through observation, geological analysis, and geospatial drones in Cajititlan, Mexico, Thursday, July 10, 2025. Credit: AP Photo/Alejandra Leyva Science to serve society Triggered by the disappearance of 43 students in 2014, Silvan and his colleagues started gathering information about ground-penetrating radar, electric resistivity and satellite imagery from around the world. They studied University of Tennessee research on human corpses buried at a "body farm." They looked at grave-mapping techniques used in the Balkans, Colombia and Ukraine. "What good is science or technology if it doesn't solve problems?" he said. They learned new applications of satellite analysis, then began their first experiments burying pigs and studying the substances criminals use to dispose of bodies. They found lime is easily detected, but hydrocarbons, hydrochloric acid and burned flesh are not. Chavez's team worked to combine the science with what they knew about how the cartels operate. For example, they determined that disappearances in Jalisco commonly happened along cartel routes between Pacific ports, drug manufacturing facilities and the U.S. border, and that most of the missing are found in the same municipality where they disappeared. Expert relatives The experience of the families of the missing also informs the research. Some observed that graves are often found under trees whose roots grow vertically, so those digging the graves can remain in the shade. Mothers of missing loved ones invited by researchers to visit one of the pig burial sites were able to identify most of the unmarked graves by sight alone, because of the plants and soil placement, Silvan said. Danger warning tape streches along a Nextipac ranch where prosecutors say bodies were discovered in a mass grave during excavations for the construction, in the Zapopan municipality, Jalisco state, Mexico, Friday, July 11, 2025. Credit: AP Photo/Alejandra Leyva "The knowledge flows in both directions," he said. Maribel Cedeno, who has been looking for her missing brother for four years, said she believes the drones and other technology will be helpful. "I never imagined being in this situation, finding bodies, becoming such an expert," she said of her quest. Hector Flores has been searching for his son since 2021. He questions why so much time and effort has been invested in methods that have not led to concrete discoveries, when the families have proven track records with little official support. Although the research has not yet concluded, the Jalisco Search Commission is already using a thermal drone, a laser scanner and a multispectral camera to help families look for their missing relatives in some cases. But it is unclear whether authorities across Mexico will ever be willing to use, or able to afford, the high-tech aides. Congram, the forensic scientist, said researchers are aware of the limitations of technology, but that "you always have to try, fail, fail again and keep trying." 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain According to Statistics Canada, police-reported hate crimes against Jews rose by 82% in 2023. In the months following Oct. 7, 2023 and the subsequent war in Gaza, university campuses across Canada became sites of tension, protest and divisions. Jewish students and faculty increasingly reported feeling alone, excluded and targeted. As our research has examined, despite these urgent realities, Jewish identity and antisemitism remain largely invisible in the equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) frameworks of Canadian higher education. These frameworks are meant to address the ongoing effects of historical and structural marginalization. Emerging from the four designated categories in Canada's Employment Equity Act, EDI policies in Canadian universities tend to center race, Indigeneity as well as gender, with limited attention to religious affiliation. Canadian higher education's primary EDI focus on racism and decolonization is important, given the history of exclusion and marginalization of Black people, Indigenous Peoples and people of color in Canada. Yet, this framing inadequately addresses the historical and ongoing antisemitism in Canada. A cross-university study of EDI policies To understand this oversight, we conducted a content and discourse analysis of the most recent (at the time of the study) EDI policies and Canada Research Chair EDI documents from 28 Canadian universities. Our sample included English-speaking research universities of more than 15,000 students and a few smaller universities to ensure regional representation. We focused on how these documents referred to Jewish identity, antisemitism and related terms, as well as how they situated these within broader EDI discourses. We found that, in most cases, antisemitism and Jewish identity were either completely absent or mentioned only superficially. Three patterns emerged from our analysis: 1. Antisemitism is marginalized as a systemic issue: Where it appears, antisemitism is generally folded into long lists of forms of discrimination, alongside racism, sexism, homophobia, Islamophobia and other "isms." Unlike anti-Black racism or Indigenous-based racism, which often have dedicated sections and careful unpacking, antisemitism is rarely examined. While EDI policies can be performative, they still represent institutional commitment and orientation. Not specifically considering antisemitism renders it peripheral and unimportant, even though it remains a pressing issue on campuses. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. 2. Jewish identity is reduced to religion: When Jewishness is acknowledged in EDI frameworks, it is almost always under the category of religious affiliation, appearing as part of the demographic sections. This framing erases the ethnic and cultural dimensions of Jewish identity and peoplehood and disregards the ways in which many Canadian Jews understand themselves. The lack of understanding of Jewishness as an intersectional identity also erases the experiences of Jews of color, LGBTQ+ Jews, and Mizrahi and Sephardi Jews. While some Jews may identify as white, some do not, and even those who benefit from white privilege may still experience antisemitism and exclusion. The recent scholarly study, "Jews and Israel 2024: A Survey of Canadian Attitudes and Jewish Perceptions" by sociologist Robert Brym, finds that 91% of 414 Jewish respondents in the overall study believe that Israel has the right to exist as a Jewish statea response Brym believes indicates that the respondent is a Zionist, echoing a broad definition of the term. (Three percent of Jewish respondents opposed the view that Israel has the right to exist as a Jewish state, and six percent said they didn't know). For most Canadian Jews in the study, Brym writes, "support for the existence of a Jewish state in Israel is a central component of their identity." But Zionism presents a challenge for EDI for several reasons. Firstly, Zionism enters into a tension with (mis)conceptions of Jews as non-racialized people within anti-racism discourses. Secondly, some scholars and activist movements address Zionism largely as a form of settler colonialism. While debates over the historical sources of Zionism and their political implications are legitimate and evolving, the danger arises when debates shift to embodying and targeting Jews as individuals. Furthermore, "anti-Zionist" discourses, often amplified in student protests, risk flattening the diversity that exists under the Zionist identification. 3. Pairing antisemitism and Islamophobia: In the EDI policies we examined, antisemitism is rhetorically paired with Islamophobia: In nearly every case where antisemitism was mentioned, it was coupled with Islamophobia. This rhetorical symmetry may be driven by institutional anxiety over appearing biased or by attempts to balance political sensitivities. Yet it falsely implies that antisemitism and Islamophobia are similar or are inherently connected. While intersectional analysis of antisemitism and Islamophobia can yield insight, this pairing functions as an avoidance mechanism and a shortcut. Failure to name, analyze Jewish identity The erasure of antisemitism from EDI policies affects how Jewish students and faculty experience campus life. Jews may not be marginalized in the same way as other equity-seeking groups, yet they are still deserving of protection and inclusion. The EDI principle of listening to lived experiences cannot be applied selectivity. Jewish identity is complex, and framing it narrowly contributes to undercounting Jewish people in institutional data and EDI policies. Simplistic classifications erase differences, silence lived experiences and reinforce assimilation. By failing to name and analyze Jewish identity and antisemitism, universities leave Jewish members of the academic community without appropriate mechanisms of support. The lack of EDI recognition reflects and reproduces the perceptions of Jews as powerful and privileged, resulting in a paradox: Jewish people are often treated as outside the bounds of EDI, even as antisemitism intensifies. The question of Jewish connection to Israel or Zionism introduces another layer of complexity that most EDI policies avoid entirely. While criticism of Israeli state policies is not antisemitic, many Jews experience exclusion based on real or perceived Zionist identification. Universities cannot afford to ignore this dynamic, even when it proves uncomfortable or politically fraught. What needs to change If Canadian universities are to build truly inclusive campuses, then their EDI frameworks must evolve in both language and structure. First, antisemitism must be recognized as a form of racism, not merely religious intolerance. This shift would reflect how antisemitism has historically operated and continues to manifest through racialized tropes, conspiracy theories and scapegoating. Second, institutions must expand their data collection and demographic frameworks to reflect the full dimensions of Jewish identity: religious, ethnic and cultural. Without this inclusion, the understanding of Jewish identity will remain essentialized and unacknowledged. Third, Jewish voices, including those of Jews of color, LGBTQ+ Jews and Jews with diverse relationships to Zionism, must be included in EDI consultation processes. These perspectives are critical to understanding how antisemitism intersects with other forms of marginalization. Fourth, the rhetorical pairing of antisemitism and Islamophobia, while perhaps intended to promote balance, should be replaced with a deep unpacking of both phenomena and their intersections. Finally, universities must resist the urge to treat difficult conversations as too controversial to include. Complex dialogue should not be a barrier to equity work. The gaps we identified reveal how current EDI frameworks can exclude any group whose identities fall outside established categories. In a time of polarization and disinformation, universities must model how to hold space for complexity and foster real inclusion. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Markus Winkler from Pexels A new sociological study offers a surprising take on the state of American news: Right-wing news media doesn't just sit on the opposite end of the political spectrum from mainstream outletsit operates more like a religion than a traditional news source. While we often hear about polarized news media, research from Purdue University argues that this is the wrong framework. Instead of a simple left vs. right divide, sociologists Marcus Mann and Daniel Winchester argue that we're dealing with two quite different media systems. Mainstream outlets, such as The New York Times and CBS News, aim to report facts, inform a diverse American public, and cover a wide range of issues. In contrast, right-wing sites like Breitbart, NewsMax, and the Daily Wire focus on a narrow set of hot-button topics and are more concerned with reinforcing beliefs among a specific demographic than informing the public. The study concludes that the right-wing media world resembles religion much more than traditional news. The paper, "Beyond Polarization: Right-Wing News as a Quasi-religious Phenomenon" was published in the June 2025 Sociological Theory. According to the researchers, these outlets: Promote a fixed worldview, treating sacred truths as more important than "mere facts" Build a strong sense of community around shared values rather than encouraging independent thinking among individuals Grow and change in ways that look more like religious movements than businesses This shift in perspective helps explain why these platforms are influential and why many Americans are drawn to them. As the authors argue, "Right-wing news audiences are seeking (and getting) a lot more than fact or fiction when they tune into Fox News, NewsMax or the Daily Caller. Like church or temple, many Americans are now getting their beliefs, identity and sense of belonging from this media system." More information: Marcus Mann et al, Beyond Polarization: Right-Wing News as a Quasi-religious Phenomenon, Sociological Theory (2025). DOI: 10.1177/07352751251326951 GLENS FALLS Although the numbers were less than what has been seen at other local protests, the, which took place at the intersection of Bay and Glen streets in Glens Falls Saturday, carried the same powerful, yet terse message. I just want to say that Trump sucks, 7-year-old Lizzie Rowland said, with some measure of hesitation due to her mother standing right next to her. Elizabeth! Appropriate words, Lizzies mother, Maggie Rowland, reprimanded behind nervous laughter. When asked why she felt the way she did about the president, Lizzie expanded on her assessment. Because hes taxing the poor and not the rich, and he is not letting people come to this country when their country is not safe, she said. Maggie Rowland said she and her husband both work as nurses in the area. We talk a lot about everybody deserving care and everybody deserving safety and our kids have grown to feel very strongly about that as well, she explained. That was the focal point of Saturdays Families First protest: highlighting the needs of local families versus those of the wealthy few. The idea [is] that we need to put families before billionaires, and all of the cuts to Medicaid and SNAP are taking away things for families, explained Rene Rountree, steering committee member of Indivisible ADK/Saratoga, which organized the local event in conjunction with similar event across the country. The demonstration was cobbled together as a national response to the passing of the H.R.1, a reconciliation measure, which added legislation to the 2025/2026 federal budget bill, known colloquially as the One Big Beautiful Bill. The bill proposes drastic cuts to many social welfare programs such as Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as well as extending major tax cuts implemented in 2017 by the first Trump administration. Proponents of the bill praise the cuts as a fine-tuning of those costly programs, and the tax break extension as a boon to the corporate tax system. I dont know how throwing people off Medicaid, throwing people off health insurance cutting back SNAP, which is food assistance programs how that is going to help any family in our district? Rountree posited. Since passing the bill earlier this month, congressional GOP members have been held to account for their support of provisions which detractors say will hurt their base, including Rep. Elise Stefanik (NY-21) who said she was proud to be the deciding vote to pass the 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' a historic victory for New Yorkers and President Trump's America First agenda, in May. Stefanik has said she plans to run for governor of New York in 2026 but has yet to launch a formal campaign. She voted against the things that would help our local communities and our local families by voting for the bill and being very proud that she was the last vote for the bill, Rountree said. If she becomes our governor, what does that look like for our state? Speaking in June fresh off the New York State Assemblys budget hearings, Assemblymember Carrie Woerner (District 113) said the reclamation bill would cut $104 million in Medicaid in NY-21 alone, resulting in 38,598 newly uninsured Medicaid recipients. Drawing from her experience as a nurse Saturday, Maggie Rowland said its hard for people to understand just how much the Medicaid funding loss will affect the community as a whole. Without that reimbursement its going to be harder for people to get care, not only people who are relying on that Medicaid to receive care, but who rely on those facilities that were relying on the Medicaid reimbursement themselves," she said. She also pointed to a sharp drop in non-English speaking patients showing up for appointments, touching on another major civil rights issue of the day. Anybody that had, had a flag in their chart saying that they would need a translator when they arrived... theyve stopped coming to their appointments, Rowland said. Theyre afraid. Rowland encouraged anyone, regardless of immigration status, to seek whatever medical help they may need. She assured that The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects all personal information. Legally, HIPAA applies. We cannot tell anybody what your status is, we cant tell anybody about your private information, or even whether or not youre a patient with us. Always come and get help if you need it. Hospitals, nurses, doctors we are not allowed to report anything like that, she asserted. As for Lizzie and her older sister Rosie, the two pint-sized feminists are also concerned for their own rights if the country continues on its current path. I dont think Ill be able to work with this, the 9-year-old Rosie said. Well have to still fight because we dont have the same rights. Another young American was out on Saturday, putting what he had learned during the previous school year about civic engagement into practice. Whatever the presidents doing requires legal status and [America] is a country where we also choose what happens and thats not whats happening right now, so were trying to get out here and tell the world that what the president is doing is wrong, said Oliver Kostyk, who was holding a sign that read, Love, not hate, makes America great. We are out here supporting people that think differently and dont think that Donald Trump is right, he added. Were celebrating that people who are different are alright. The crowd on Saturday was smaller than in protests past, but if the words coming out of the mouths of babes are any indication, the movement is far from over. It feels pretty good that were fighting, Rosie said. Yeah, but it feels bad that we have to do it, Lizzie interjected. We want to already have our rights; we dont want to fight for them. So, I think that we should just do whatever we can to get our own rights back. UPPER TOWNSHIP Did you hear the one about the door-to-door salesman and the Segway? It sounds like a lot of township residents heard plenty about it over the weekend. Several neighbors raised concerns about a salesperson for a pest control company going from house to house over the weekend, apparently in violation of the townships ordinance limiting solicitation. The salesperson used a Segway personal transporter to more rapidly move between houses. Door-to-door solicitation was a big topic this week, Township Committee member Victor Nappen II said as part of his report at the Monday meeting. You need to be licensed in order to go door to door in our township. If youre being pestered by people, if you dont want them to be there, we recommend that you put a no solicitation sign up and contact local authorities. Nappen said he, too, had a visit and was unhappy with the interruption because he was watching the Philadelphia Eagles get a Best Team award at the ESPYs. In 2023, the township approved an ordinance on peddling that limits the time when salespeople can go to homes and requires them to get a township license. It also established a do not knock registry similar to a do not call list. The township rescinded an earlier, tougher ordinance after facing a threat of a lawsuit from a national company on free-speech grounds. Nappen mentioned constitutional protections at the Monday meeting. Courts have upheld limits on the time and manner of solicitation and canvassing, but have also found that commercial speech is protected and the Supreme Court has constantly found that religious organizations have a First Amendment right to door-to-door ministry. Township Administrator James Van Zlike had been working on the issue over the weekend. I have it on good authority that the gentleman that has been going door to door in Upper Township has now taken his show to Galloway Township, Mayor Curtis Corson said. Galloway also requires a permit for door-to-door solicitation. After the meeting, Corson said a single salesperson riding a Segway had been going door to door offering contracts for pest control services. They did not have a permit from Upper Township to solicit door to door, Corson said. The township has seen salespeople from solar companies and for home improvements also going from house to house. He said any such sales need a township permit. On Friday, Lower Township police issued a warning about door-to-door sales, warning residents not to let any unfamiliar person into their homes. Lower also requires a permit for solicitation and that the salesperson carry identification. Currently there are no permits issues, the police statement reads. If someone is soliciting in your neighborhood, please notify the Lower Township Police at 609-886-2711. Lower Township police Deputy Chief Donald Vanaman gave a similar description of a pest control salesperson riding a Segway, but in this case said there were several salespeople. Facing lawsuit threat, Upper Township likely to rescind rules barring door-to-door sales UPPER TOWNSHIP In-person sales may get a foot in the door as the Township Committee looks He did not allege that the salespeople had done anything criminal, although he said concerns about potential crimes were part of the reason Lower requires salespeople to register in advance and present identification. But he said the representatives from Greenix Pest Control had knocked on doors as late as 10 p.m., and said officials received reports of hard-ball sales tactics, leading to the notice sent out by police. Before the ordinance was approved, he said, there had been incidents of theft from people posing as sales representatives. For instance, someone might ask to use the restroom at an older residents home, and then take any drugs that were in the bathroom cabinet. That is part of the reason the township insists on vetting salespeople, he said. Were not trying to stop anybody from making a living, Vanaman said. He said police had tried to reach Greenix officials, without success. Theyve been ducking our calls, he said. Greenix is a national pest control company, and there have been complaints about its sales tactics across the country. One commenter on a Facebook page dedicated to the small community of Barton City, Michigan, joked about the irony of needing a pest control company to get rid of the pest control company representatives, and several people in other communities around the country mentioned the use of Segways or other motorized transports. A customer service representative with Greenix said she could not comment on behalf of the company on Tuesday. There was no immediate response to an emailed request for comment sent to the companys media representatives. LOS ANGELES, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Grivel, the renowned Italian mountaineering equipment brand with a 200-year legacy, proudly announces a major strategic shift in its U.S. operations. Effective immediately, Grivel will transition from its current distributor-led sales model to a direct-to-business (D2B) model for all wholesale accounts across the United States, through its newly established subsidiary Grivel Corp. This move marks a significant evolution for Grivel as it aims to strengthen its relationships with specialty retailers, improve service and responsiveness, and bring the brand closer to the core outdoor communities it serves. "This is about building stronger partnerships," says Oliviero Gobbi, CEO of Grivel. "By eliminating the layers between us and our retail partners, we can respond faster, support better, and collaborate more closely with shops that are core to the outdoor community." Retailers and wholesale partners can now place orders directly with Grivel's new U.S.-based logistics and support team, ensuring improved lead times, increased product availability, and streamlined communications. For information on establishing or updating a wholesale account with Grivel, please fill out the customer onboarding form and a sales representative will follow up with you: Customer Onboarding Form U.S. Sales & Dealer Support [email protected] (706)-669-1979 www.grivel.com About Grivel Grivel, founded in 1818 at the foot of Mont Blanc, is a world leader in manufacturing technical mountain and climbing equipment. Rooted in a rich heritage and driven by innovation, Grivel is headquartered in the Aosta Valley, Italy with a strong global presence and representation. For more information on Grivel, please visit the website: www.grivel.com Media Contact [email protected] Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2740245/Grivel_Logo.jpg SOURCE Grivel Free beach access for all Throughout history, waterways and shorelines have served as gathering spots for communities, places where families make memories and individuals find solace in nature. In many cultures, access to the sea has been protected by law or custom. In fact, several legal traditions including those governing our shores are based on the idea that the coastline is held in trust for the people, not for government revenue. Public trust doctrines, which have roots in Roman law, recognize the inherent right of the people to access natural resources like waterways and beaches. While laws vary by region, the underlying principle remains: Nature should not be enclosed for government profit. It is the duty of lawmakers to enforce and protect this right for all citizens. When access to the beach is restricted by cost, we create an artificial divide in our community. Families living paycheck to paycheck may find it impossible to afford parking fees or entrance charges. When we monetize beach access, we signal that recreation, relaxation and connection to nature are privileges, not rights. Some New Jersey municipalities have also diverted beach tag fees to other projects in violation of state law. Detractors may claim that fees are necessary to fund maintenance and safety. Yet New Jersey stands alone in making this argument, save for a small group of communities throughout the nation in big-government states like Evanston, Illinois, and two cities on Long Island in New York. California, for all its flaws, provides free access to lifeguard-protected beaches year-round. Some argue that limiting access is necessary for environmental protection. Indeed, overuse, littering and habitat destruction are real concerns. Rather than paying tag-checkers to sit still, hire Class I police officers to enforce local ordinances. By fostering a culture of stewardship, we can both protect the environment and guarantee access for all. The ocean is for everyone. Matt Richardson Smithville Van Drew has turned his back on South Jersey, Indivisible leader writes The strength and beauty of our community is exactly why watching U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew turn his back on us is so painful, Alice Carcilli writes. Prosecutors column well said I would like to commend Prosecutor Williams Reynolds highly for taking the time to compose and share such a thoughtful, cogent piece calling attention to the need for action subsequent to the heart-wrenching death of the 14-year-old in Somers Point while riding a motorized bicycle. Not a time goes by when my wife and I are walking the bike path that more than one e-bike and/or e-scooter goes barreling past and we wonder to ourselves what will it take, what kind of calamity will occur, who is going to be gravely injured before something is done about this. No doubt our emergency rooms and trauma centers have already been inundated with severe cases due to these devices. Reynolds desire to be proactive and advocate for prevention on the part of parents is a step in the right direction; certainly his guidance and steps suggested to err on the side of caution is brilliant. What percentage of parents will heed this? I fear not enough. But certainly any who do will potentially reduce future occurrences and perhaps influence others. What else can we do? Those responsible for our public safety must pick up the baton and tackle this challenging issue. Mathew D. Finkelson Linwood Coverage and comments on Atlantic Club aren't helping, Galloway letter writer says The Press' recent coverage of the Atlantic Club redevelopment collapse and the Facebook comments that followed say all too much about the state of civic discourse. Bassford wrong on protest The July 9 article Galloways Bassford to resign contained words attributed to Republican Councilman Tom Bassford that I found disturbing. Reportedly his greatest pet peeve is protesters on the left making their views known in public. He says, You have the right to protest, but it drives me crazy. Thats what bugs me the most. You go out and protest in front of local businesses. The businesses he specifically cites are the Smithville Inn and Gourmet Italian Cuisine. He goes on to say, Its not right. You need to stop. You should be ashamed of yourselves. You really should be. We should be ashamed? According to fellow protesters and my own observations, each of these peaceful protests had a police presence. No one recalled seeing these establishments entrances or exits blocked. Should protests take place in someones backyard where no one will see them? Under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, we the people have an inalienable right to protest, to be seen and heard. Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. We are not, nor will we ever be, ashamed to exercise this right. Cynthia Grzywinski Galloway Township Stevensville residents have been asked to weigh in on updates to the town's growth policy. In 2023, Stevensvilles population was reportedly 2,172, an increase of 228 people since the areas last growth policy was published in 2016. The new policy will cost $30,000, which is being covered by a Montana Department of Commerce grant, and will be written by Great Western Engineering. The 10-question survey released on July 23, focuses on housing, annexation, town projects, downtown Stevensville, volunteering and park funding, among other topics. Vice Chair of the Stevensville Planning and Zoning Board, Angela Lyons told the Ravalli Republic that she anticipated the survey would be completed by April 2026. "The entire process will likely take about a year," Lyons said in an email with the Ravalli Republic. "We started in April of this year and we are shooting for completion in April 2026." Lyons said the survey for the 2016 growth policy only received 46 responses. She's hoping more Stevensville residents will engage with the new survey for the 2026 update. "I would love to see 300 or more," Lyons said. "We will use the results from it to help write the first draft of the Growth Policy, particularly the goals, objectives and actions for topics ranging from land use and infrastructure to local services and housing. This is why it's important that we have as many folks as possible fill out the survey." What's happened since the current policy was implemented? Stevensvilles 2016 growth policy extensively reported on key issues, including the lack of commercial tax revenue and resulting town budget constraints, aging water infrastructure, housing, lack of walkability, annexation and increasing population. It then analyzed possible avenues of improvement by outlining initiatives the town could implement over the course of the coming decade. The 2016 policy reported that Stevensvilles most promising path towards successful expansion was to encourage local business development as well as reuse and infill in existing commercial areas. The policy applauded the creation of Stevensvilles Tax Increment Financing Industrial District in 2011. To provide for sustainable revenue generation going forward, Stevensville needs to examine how the town can diversify its tax base to rely less on residential property taxes and increase the number of tax paying commercial and industrial uses, reads the policy. A successful example of Stevensville expanding the towns commercial and industrial tax base is the creation of the Tax Increment Financing Industrial District (TIFID) north of town. Lyons said that since the 2016 growth policy was published, "The TIFF district remains unchanged other than a rail road crossing and tracks being removed from Middle Burnt Fork Road." Over the past decade, changes were made at Stevensville's other development district - a targeted economic development district (TEDD) that includes the Stevensville Airport. Lyons said TEDD funds "have been used to improve the airport runway at Stevensville airport." A big project outlined in the old policy, which was subsequently addressed by the town, was the water main replacement on Mission Street. Lyons said the $1.8 million ARPA project, is nearing completion. Various upgrades to the water and wastewater plant are also in the works. Another one of the many goals of considered to be top priority in the 2016 policy recommended that Stevensville, Organize a business owners round table where local business owners and community leaders can discuss challenges, needs, and opportunities for retaining existing businesses and attracting new ones. Stevensville has yet to create an additional economic development district, nor has it organized such a roundtable. Those surveyed for the 2016 policy also voiced support for an increase in density and affordable housing options in Stevensville, 46% of respondents (18 out of the 46) saying they wanted to encourage higher residential densities to increase housing supply. Nearly half of respondents said they wanted to update Stevensvilles development code to remove barriers to infill housing and address potential impacts on development of affordable housing. Since 2016, Stevensvilles zoning code has not received an amendment focussed on increasing density. The zoning code was updated once in 2020 to accommodate a small housing project. The 2016 policy also looked at population projections and included estimated demographic changes. It predicted that between 2014 and 2036, the Stevensville senior population would explode, while other age groups would increase more moderately. Between 2014 and 2036, Stevensvilles senior population (age 65+) is projected to see the largest increase in population at 55%, equating to 31% of the total population, up from 24% in 2014, reads the policy. Both the under 20 and 20-44 age groups are also projected to increase over the next 20 years by 2% and 15%, respectively. Data from 2023, showed that Stevensville had a population of 2,172, a 6.58% increase from 2022. According to Lyons, the process of writing the policy will likely take about a year and that responses from the public will be "very important" in crafting an accurate representation of Stevensville's current landscape. The deadline to fill out the survey is Aug. 8. CORRECTION: A previous version of this story incorrectly cited Angela Lyons as Secretary of the Stevensville Planning and Zoning Board instead of Vice Chair and claimed that the Mission Street water main project cost $1.8 billion instead of $1.8 million. The Ravalli Republic regrets this error. SHANGHAI, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Building on the unprecedented success of its 2025 edition which attracted a record-breaking 284,581 professional visitors alongside a 34.2% increase in international buyer participation HOTELEX Shanghai 2026 is poised to further cement its position as Asia's foremost hospitality equipment and foodservice exhibition. Scheduled from March 27 to April 2, 2026 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) in Shanghai, the 34th edition promises to catalyze innovation, facilitate strategic sourcing, and deepen cross-border collaborations. The 2025 event demonstrated HOTELEX's powerful capacity to convert industry exposure into business outcomes, with exhibitors reporting a 37% growth in sales leads and a 23% increase in on-site transactions. Capitalizing on this momentum, the upcoming show is expected to deliver even broader access to a highly qualified global buyer base and expanded commercial opportunities. Covering an expansive 400,000 square meters, HOTELEX 2026 will showcase more than 3,500 leading suppliers across critical verticals including Kitchen Equipment & Supplies, Coffee & Tea, Catering Ingredients, Beverages, Tableware, Food & Catering Packaging and Baking Equipment & Raw Materials. This fully integrated platform is designed to streamline the sourcing process and accelerate business development across the hospitality value chain. A distinctive feature of HOTELEX is its cross-sector integration model, which unites the hotel, catering, tourism, and retail supply chains under one umbrella. Supported by a shared buyer database exceeding 100,000 verified professional contacts, the exhibition enables precise matchmaking between suppliers and high-potential buyers, optimizing ROI for all participants. With China's domestic market expanding and international investments resurging, HOTELEX Shanghai continues to represent the most strategic and dynamic platform for companies seeking to scale operations, innovate, and achieve sustainable growth in the Asia-Pacific hospitality sector. Booth Inquiry: [email protected] Media Cooperation: [email protected] SOURCE HOTELEX Shanghai By Panu Wongcha-um and Panarat Thepgumpanat BANGKOK (Reuters) -The Thailand-Cambodia border, where fighting has raged since last week, was calm on Tuesday following a ceasefire deal and military commanders from both sides are set to meet for talks later in the day, acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said. Phumtham and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet met in Malaysia on Monday and agreed to halt their deadliest conflict in more than a decade following five days of intense fighting that killed at least 38 people, mostly civilians, and displaced over 300,000. The Thai army said in a statement there had been attacks by Cambodian troops in at least five locations early on Tuesday, violating the ceasefire that had come into effect from midnight, and Thailand's military had retaliated proportionately. Phumtham played down the clashes, and said he had spoken with Cambodia's defence minister ahead of the talks between military commanders. "There is no escalation," Phumtham told reporters. "Right now things are calm." Thai military officials in two areas had met with their Cambodian counterparts, but commanders along the stretch of the frontier that has seen the heaviest fighting during the conflict were yet to hold talks, Thai army spokesman Major Gen. Winthai Suvaree said in a statement. The parley had been scheduled for 10 a.m. local time (0300 GMT), but it was postponed and no new time had yet been set, he added. Maly Socheata, a spokesperson for the Cambodian Defence Ministry, said at a briefing on Tuesday that there had been no new fighting along the border. Vehicular traffic and daily activity resumed in the Kantharalak district of Thailand's Sisaket province on Tuesday, about 30 km (20 miles) from the frontlines, where Thai and Cambodian troops remain amassed. Cars and motorbikes returned to the streets, which had been largely empty since the border clashes began on Thursday, with military vehicles among civilian traffic. Chaiya Phumjaroen, 51, said he returned to town to reopen his shop early on Tuesday, after hearing of the ceasefire deal on the news. "I am very happy that a ceasefire happened," he said. "If they continue to fight, we have no opportunity to make money." TALKS AND TRADE The Southeast Asian neighbours have wrangled for decades over their disputed frontier and have been on a conflict footing since the killing of a Cambodian soldier in a skirmish late in May, which led to a troop buildup on both sides and a full-blown diplomatic crisis. Monday's peace talks came after a sustained push by Malaysian Premier Anwar Ibrahim and U.S. President Donald Trump, with the latter warning Thai and Cambodian leaders that trade negotiations would not progress if fighting continued. Thailand and Cambodia face a tariff of 36% on their goods in the U.S., their biggest export market, unless a reduction can be negotiated. After the ceasefire deal was reached, Trump said he had spoken to both leaders and had instructed his trade team to restart tariff talks. Pichai Chunhavajira, Thailand's finance minister, said on Tuesday that trade talks with Washington are expected to be concluded before August 1, and that U.S. tariffs on the country are not expected to be as high as 36%. (Reporting by Panu Wongcha-um and Panarat Thepgumpanat in BANGKOK and Shoon Naing in KANTHARALAK; Writing by Devjyot Ghoshal; Editing by John Mair and Raju Gopalakrishnan) Relative arrested in muriatic acid attack against sleeping Cancun family Cancun, Q.R. Three members of a Cancun family were rushed to hospital early Tuesday after being attacked in their sleep. Police say the family of three were sprayed with muriatic acid while they slept. The main suspect in the attack, a direct relative, has been arrested. Paramedics were called to the home in SM 234 just before 1:30 a.m. Tuesday. A man, woman and their two year old daughter were taken to hospital after being doused with a bottle of muriatic acid while they slept. Police were able to locate the man accused of emptying the bottle of acid on the three family members. He has been identified as 21 year old Angel Santiago N. In a statement from the Municipal Secretariat of Citizen Security, they said the violent incident occurred while the victims, a man, his partner, and their two-year-old daughter, were sleeping. Police in Cancun said the attacker, a direct relative of the victims, entered the home and threw acid at them, causing first-degree burns. Personnel from the Specialized Group for Attention to Domestic Violence (GEAVIG) also provided psychological and legal support to the family. The detained man is reported to be the wifes brother. Police have not made any public comment on a motive for the attack that left all three with first degree skin burns. Advocates gathered outside of Target headquarters to urge the retailer to follow through on decade-long promises to reduce animal suffering MINNEAPOLIS, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Humane World for Animals, formerly called the Humane Society of the United States, delivered more than 195,000 signatures in person to Target's downtown Minneapolis headquarters, calling on the company to fulfill its long-overdue commitments to eliminate the extreme confinement of pigs and hens in its supply chain. In 2012, Target pledged to stop sourcing pork from farms that confine pregnant pigs in gestation crates so small they are unable to even turn around. Then in 2016, the company committed to selling only cage-free eggs by 2025. Yet, despite making these pledges more than a decade ago, Target has failed to deliver on either promise. Despite making these pledges more than a decade ago, Target has failed to deliver on its promise. Post this During the petition event, speakers, advocates and supporters from Humane World for Animals delivered 15 large boxes of signed petitions alongside life-sized battery cages stuffed with replica chickens. Dozens of members of the public engaged with the advocates and expressed support for Target's transition to selling eggs and pork sourced from chickens and pigs who are not forced to suffer in extreme confinement. Meanwhile, a mobile billboard circled downtown Minneapolis urging the public to visit the campaign website, TargetCruelty.com. "We delivered a critical message to Target backed by more than 195,000 consumers: extreme confinement of farm animals is not only cruel but completely unnecessary," said Kent Stein, corporate policy specialist at Humane World for Animals and one of the event's speakers. "We urge Target to listen to its customers and follow through on long overdue promises to eliminate animal cruelty in its supply chain. We know they can do better just like all the large corporations who have already made, kept and implemented their commitments to animal welfare." On a typical egg factory farm, hens are crammed into barren wire cages where they endure a lifetime of captivity in a space smaller than a single letter-sized sheet of paper. Pregnant pigs confined in horrific gestation crates suffer from muscle and bone deterioration as well as severe distress, gnawing on the bars of their small cages until their mouths bleed. "More than a decade has passed since Target made these commitments, yet millions of animals in its supply chain are still suffering in tiny cages," said Aaron Zellhoefer, Minnesota state director at Humane World for Animals and a featured speaker at the event. "While many high-profile companies have already made good on their commitmentsincluding Minnesota-based General MillsTarget continues to fall behind. Stop stalling. The time for action is now." Fourteen states have already banned one or both of forms of extreme confinement for egg-laying hens and pregnant pigs, and hundreds of major companiesincluding Amazon, McDonald's, Costco, Unilever and Nestlehave adopted similar policies within their U.S. operations. To learn more and take action visit TargetCruelty.com. About Humane World for Animals Together, we tackle the root causes of animal cruelty and suffering to create permanent change. With millions of supporters and work happening in over 50 countries, Humane World for Animalsformerly called the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society Internationaladdresses the most deeply entrenched forms of animal cruelty and suffering. As the leading voice in the animal protection space, we work to end the cruelest practices, care for animals in crisis and build a stronger animal protection movement. Driving toward the greatest global impact, we aim to achieve the vision behind our name: a more humane world. humaneworld.org SOURCE Humane World for Animals. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. Earlier this month, two researchers at the University of Florida unveiled welcome news for pizza lovers: Despite the rise and seeming domination of corporate chain restaurants across the country, in some areas, local pizzerias are actually thriving thanks to the quirks that make them and their pies distinctiveand delicious. In an age when a Dominos or Pizza Hut is sure to exist around the corner, the survival of the small local pizzeria might seem unlikely. However, through their interviews with various pizzeria owners in Gainesville, Florida, Paula de la Cruz-Fernandez and Avi Ackerman found that local owners unique approaches to the pizza scenewhether thats the artist who decorates his restaurant with old cellphones or the ex-engineer who measures his dough ingredients down to the half-percentgive these pizzerias a sense of place that chains cannot match and that keeps customers coming back. I spoke with Cruz-Fernandez and Ackerman about their approach to documenting the history of local businesses in Gainesville, the significance of restaurants with that special sense of place, and why the stories of unique local spots are worth saving. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Lyanne Wang: Tell me about the design of this project. I know it involved oral histories and interviews with local businesses? Paula de la Cruz-Fernandez: So the main component, which we began probably about two years ago, was trying to document the history of the business landscape in Gainesville, where the University of Florida is located. And we did this by doing archival research. We went to city directories, to museums, to the archives of the university. We are creating a very large database of businesses back to 1882. But as we worked on this, we realized that there was a real gap in documentation about businesses, and we thought that the main way to avoid this for the future generations, but also a good way of learning about the past 40 years of businesses in the city, was doing the project using oral history methodologies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Avi Ackerman: I did the interviews for three of the pizza restaurants that we have in Gainesville. And, having gone to college in town, I wanted to try the different pizzas, and these were places that I had been to many times and loved. So being able to get the more personal stories from the owners through these interviews and understand the history of how they created the restaurant and put their personal touches on it to make it what it is today was important to me. And these are really iconic restaurants. Satchels Pizza is one of them, for example. Its been open for 22 years now. So people who went to UF or worked at UF in the past 20 years, theres a pretty good chance that theyll know Satchels Pizza, and it has this legacy, and it comes from the owner and how he created the restaurant and put his personality and his experiences into it. Advertisement Advertisement Out of all the businesses you could have studied, what led you to focus on pizzerias? Ackerman: Well, I love pizza, and I love pizza restaurants. And moving to Gainesville, as a freshman coming into university, youve got this new environment that youre in, and pizza is a comfort food for a lot of people. Thats something that resonates with me as well. And then, looking at the Gainesville pizza industry, theres so many unique pizzerias. We have 11 or 13, and they all have their own unique style and their own unique way of going about how they conduct their business in the restaurant. Ive liked being able to go from the customer side and looking at my enjoyment as a customer, and then going to the research side and looking at how it impacts the history of the city and what we can learn from the owners. Advertisement Advertisement De la Cruz-Fernandez: Yes, if you hear the interview we conducted with Satchels, there have been fires in the restaurant. There has been all sorts of turnover. The owner told us about his mental health struggles. We wouldnt have learned about that before. But then, if you go to the restaurant, youll see how every single meter of wall is different. One wall is decorated with tiles, all this color. The next wall is decorated with recycled bottle caps. The next table is decorated with old cellphones. And for me, the beautiful thing about this project is that as historians we ask, How did we get here? These stories really explain a lot of it, explain a lot of whats behind everything we see every day in the businesses that we really like. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do you have a favorite story that youve heard from a store owner? Ackerman: Thats a tough question. So with Satchels, he went to art school, and he has this very, very artistic background, and he was a local legend when he was in college because he had this car that had a lighthouse attachment on the top of it, like a tower. And he took out the seats and made hay bales as the seats in the car. Hes just a very artistic person. Hes very creative, and he brings all that and this life experience with him. Art and pizza are his two passions, and he was able to combine those into the restaurant. And its a one-of-a-kind restaurant. Its seriously one of one. Advertisement And then we also have an engineer who had a completely different background to pizza but then brings all these skills and all these techniques into making pizza, being scientific down to the half-percent of how much ingredient is in the dough, and really a super, super, super unique approach. And engineering the oven to be a certain way. So, basically, you have all these different perspectives and all these different backgrounds and approaches to making pizza. And just by going into a pizza restaurant, you may not know all of what goes into it. Advertisement I think another hugely important part about pizzerias is the atmosphere they offer. Theres a sentence you wrote in the article: Rather than focusing only on speed or price, they compete by offering character, inventive toppings, personal service and a sense of place that chains just cant replicate. What does that sense of place feel like to you when you enter these pizzerias? De la Cruz-Fernandez: Thats an important sentence and a good question, because I would go a little beyond pizzerias to say that businesses themselves, exploring the idea of a business becoming part of our life, is one of the goals of this project. Usually, when you think about culture, you think about people reading books or people watching TV. And in this case, its how the businesses that you patronize every day are also part of your own growth. But everything goes back to that organization, that business that someone has managed and allowed to become your space. So someone has put labor, has put thinking, has put finances into it. And that makes business part of the history of humanity, to put it too broadly, maybe. But for business historians, that is how we think; what we want is to understand that business also is part of social life and culture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What do you hope people take away from this research? Ackerman: I would like people to understand how the food is coming to you and the story behind the restaurant owner. I have these conversations with my friends, my family all the time, like, Oh, do you remember that restaurant that was on this corner 15 years ago? And thats where the conversation ends. We remember, Oh, there was a great this or there was a great whatnot at that restaurant. But thats where it ends. What weve done here is, weve been able to capture what is going on at the restaurant and what the history of the restaurant is and what the restaurant owners background is and the staff and create this memoryso, 15 years from now, when someone says, Oh, I remember this restaurant, you can look it up and you can see theres something more behind it, and you can look into it and maybe even be able to relive it. Thats special to me, being able to preserve the stories of these restaurants for people in the future. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. It was the vocal fry heard and mocked round the internet: Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality, and even eye color. A pause, as a lounging Sydney Sweeney zips up her jeans, then looks up with her big blue eyes: My jeans are blue. Genes, jeansits a pun, get it? That wordplay is the foundation of Sweeneys new ad campaign, filmed for the clothing retailer American Eagle to promote new products made in collaboration with the actress. (Proceeds for one item, a pair of jeans with a butterfly applique meant to represent domestic violence awareness, will go to the Crisis Text Line, a mental-health support organization.) My bodys composition is determined by my genes, Sweeney says in another video as the camera zooms in on her oft-discussed bosom. Hey! Eyes up here, she commands, meeting the cameras jolted-up gaze with a knowing smile. Then the tagline, unignorably large, fills the screen: Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans. A Hollywood starlet using sexuality to hawk denimis there anything so American? But times have changed, and these days, a blond, blue-eyed white woman being held up as the exemplar of great genes is a concept that maybe shouldnt have made it past the copywriters room. With a velocity that is honestly impressive, the ads became both a widespread meme and the latest entry in our ongoing culture wars. One side declared that American Eagles campaign carried racial undertones, promoted eugenics, and served as fascistic propaganda. The other side embraced Sweeney as a jeans model and celebrated the commercials as a nail in the coffin for woke advertising. Meanwhile, American Eagles stock briefly rallied after the ads went live, although the political leanings of meme-stock investors remain, as always, a fascinating enigma. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As much as extremely online critics may denounce these ads as a Nazi dog whistle, I have to say, Im not so sure. For one, the campaign is clearly paying direct homage to an old Brooke Shields ad for Calvin Klein jeans, filmed in the 1980s, in which the uncomfortably young Blue Lagoon actress delivers a similarly biology textbookworthy spiel: Genes are fundamental in determining the characteristics of an individual and passing on these characteristics to succeeding generations. For two, its fairly obvious that the great genes in Sweeneys ads are referring tonot to be crude about ittwo of her biggest assets (and maybe a third, if youre an ass guy), which feature prominently. Advertisement But even if the certified geniuses who came up with this campaign didnt mean to promote the Aryan ideal in their lingering shots of Sweeneys denim-clad body, Im not surprised that its come to this. And its not even anything specifically to do with American Eagle, a mall brand that most people probably havent thought of since the day they graduated from college. No, it has much more to do with Sweeney herself, a celebrity whose fraught image has been elevated and battered, stretched and twisted, objectified and torn apart in equal measure since her star began rising. For months now, a Sydney Sweeney backlash has been brewing; this ill-conceived ad campaign was just the inflection point. Advertisement Sweeney has been acting since 2009, when she was 12 years old, but her breakthrough didnt come until 2019, when she starred as Cassie, a high schooler with a reputation for being easy to hook up with, in the Zendaya-led HBO teen drama Euphoria. This role, more than any other, has shaped Sweeneys image, cementing her as a sex symbol who appeals to mens tastes. She didnt shy away from nudity, she didnt talk about politics or divisive issues or even artsy fluff, and, frankly, she was attractive in a classic Americana kind of way. Her stock only went up with some conservative admirers when a small dustup in 2022 suggested that Sweeney, who was born in Spokane, Washington, and grew up in rural Idaho, had family members who wore Blue Lives Matter apparel and MAGA-style red hats to her mothers birthday party. (Sweeney, addressing the controversy in a Variety interview a year later, said that the people pictured werent her family and were wearing the red hatsemblazoned with the words Make Sixty Great Againto be funny.) Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate It Needs to Be Said: Sydney Sweeneys Boobs Are Not That Big Read More But there were also hints that there was more to Sweeney than what the general public and horny men between the ages of 18 and 55 saw of her. She displayed her acting prowess in other projects, including the television adaptation of The Handmaids Tale, Mike Whites White Lotus, and especially Reality, a 2023 film in which she played Reality Winner, the National Security Agency whistleblower. She founded her own production company, and her role executive producing and co-starring in the 2023 rom-com hit Anyone but You proved that she had some level of producing chops too. She tinkered with cars! She seemed self-aware about being typecast as a dumb blonde with big tits! (Im naturally brunette, she jokingly rebutted in one interview.) She grew up in a family that had experienced financial hardship and, even after her career breakthrough, she confessed to taking so many brand deals because she was still always worried about money! People are making far more money than Sweeney for doing work that both demands and contributes far less, Defectors Kelsey McKinney wrote in 2022, in a widely shared piece that defended Sweeney in the struggle against capital. Why should any CEO make more than the actresses whose labor and beauty they sell? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sweeney was sympathetic, in other wordsor just at the edge of sympathy. You looked at her, and you saw a hard-working, hustling young actress who was constantly reduced to a great rack, who was co-opted by conservatives in their anti-woke crusade, who inspired the strangest debates over a womans beauty (or lack thereof, according to what I suspect are some of the most average-looking incels alive). Out of some uneasy sense of solidarity, or perhaps well-meaning condescension, or possibly even the desire to not just assume the worst about a hot blond woman, you wanted to root for Sweeney. Advertisement But over the past six months or so, feelings toward the actress have undergone a shift. In March, she was spotted attending the wedding of Glen Powells sister, reigniting rumors that Sweeney had been romantically involved with Powell, her Anyone but You co-star, at a time when both actors were in respective relationships with other people. (Powells ex, a model known as Gigi Paris, didnt help things when she went on a podcast in June and said of the co-stars, I hope theyre in love.) As if that whiff of accused infidelity werent enough, some of Sweeneys many, many brand deals started to smell a little more pungently shameless, with Sweeney pulling a Belle Delphine and selling Dr. Squatcha male-targeted personal-care brandsoap containing her bathwater. (Before you ask, yes, it sold out.) Then, to top it all off, in June Sweeney was a guest at Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchezs Venice wedding, a locally despised event so tacky that any famous person seen in attendance immediately lost all semblance of glamour. (Sweeney was also papped strolling around the Floating City with fellow wedding attendee Orlando Bloom, fresh off a breakup with Katy PerrySydney, girl, this doesnt look good for you!) Advertisement There was still some benefit of the doubt, however tiny, that could be extended to Sweeney when considering just one or two of her brand-cheapening faux pas in isolation. She was family friends with all of the Powells! Her bathwater soap was just her being in on the joke! She was in Venice to secure funding for a business venture funded in part by Bezos private equity firm! But the public goodwill for the whole package she was peddling, and for her as a celebrity, was steadily diminishing. Shes a pick-me has been one common sentiment surrounding her, voiced often on social media and in celebrity-gossip forums. What that means, essentially, is that she has lost the women, the demographic that typically constitutes the fan bases of our most beloved stars and that is willing to support nearly any amount of frivolity so long as its delivered with the right wink and a nod or sincere note of vulnerability. Once, this kind of pop-culture consumer might have been persuaded to half-heartedly root for Sweeney to prove haters and salivating male fans alike wrong against surely insurmountable odds. Now, though, between rumors over her messy entanglements, her off-tone sponsorships and deals, and her thirsty connections with the Bezoses of the world, she has proved something else instead: that Sweeney the star is not the cool girl some onlookers hoped she might besomeone whos in on the gag only, like, in a sort of feminist way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But what did anyone expect from an actress who never made any such promises about who she was, whether politically, commercially, or romantically? Celebrity is neither a pledge of values nor a bond of intimacy. Its a sales mechanism, one that facilitates the vending of tabloids, of movies, of albums, of bathwater soap and butterfly jeans. To believe otherwise is only to set yourself up for disappointment, as some former Sweeney defenders may be discovering this week. So, no, Im not reading eugenics into the thoughtless American Eagle ad, but at this point, it hardly even matters. At the end of the day, a sizable, very vocal chunk of America has spoken: They are no longer interested in buying whatever Sweeney is selling. Arizona Diamondbacks' Eugenio Suarez reacts after being hit by a pitch during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers Monday, July 28, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun) Arizona Diamondbacks' Eugenio Suarez reacts after being hit by a pitch during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers Monday, July 28, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun) Arizona Diamondbacks' Eugenio Suarez reacts after being hit by a pitch during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers Monday, July 28, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun) Arizona Diamondbacks' Eugenio Suarez reacts after being hit by a pitch during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers Monday, July 28, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun) Arizona Diamondbacks' Eugenio Suarez reacts after being hit by a pitch during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers Monday, July 28, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun) DETROIT (AP) Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star third baseman Eugenio Suarez hopes he avoided major injury when he was hit in the right index finger by a pitch late in Monday night's 5-1 loss to the Detroit Tigers. Suarez, who is a candidate to be traded to a contender, was hit by a 95.6 mph sinker from Will Vest in the ninth inning. He immediately doubled over in pain and quickly left the field. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The good news is that the X-rays were negative, but it still obviously hurt, said Suarez, who was not bending the finger. There are more tests scheduled for (Tuesday) and we will go from there. I'll come back as quickly as I can. The 34-year-old is hitting .247 with 36 homers and 87 RBIs in 104 games this season the seventh time he has hit at least 30 homers in the last eight full seasons. He's very tough and he never even winces, Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said. When he reacts like that, you know it isn't good. Lovullo said he didn't blame Vest. I don't think there was any intent there, Lovullo said. He's one of the most impressive hitters in MLB and you don't want to take those type of players off the field. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Diamondbacks are 51-56 and have already signaled they will be sellers at the deadline. One of the teams believed to be interested in Suarez is the Tigers. The Venezuelan was signed by Detroit at age 17 and made his debut for the club in 2014 before being traded to Cincinnati after that season. ___ AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb https://sputnikglobe.com/20250729/houthis-may-include-eternity-c-crew-in-gaza-deal---spokesman-1122506488.html Houthis May Include Eternity C Crew in Gaza Deal - Spokesman Houthis May Include Eternity C Crew in Gaza Deal - Spokesman Sputnik International Crew members of the Greek vessel Eternity C, sunk by Ansar Allah, may be released as part of a Gaza ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel, Houthi official Muhammad al-Buheiti told Sputnik. Exceptions may be made for the detained Russian sailor. 2025-07-29T04:43+0000 2025-07-29T04:43+0000 2025-07-29T04:43+0000 world israel mohammed al-bukhaiti hamas houthi red sea russia houthis https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/03/0f/1117340561_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_bf5fdf91f577c78a3db73e88c0f938a0.jpg "We always link the future fate of ships and their crew members to the negotiations between Hamas and Israel. In general, as you remember, the same scenario happened with the Galaxy Leader crew," al-Bukhaiti said. He also noted that exceptions and third-party agreements are possible, but the final decision lies with the military command.On July 17, a senior official from the Houthi-led Yemeni Foreign Ministry told Sputnik that a Russian sailor was rescued from the sunken Eternity C and receiving medical treatment. The Houthis released a video on Monday that allegedly shows Russian sailor Alexei Galaktionov, rescued from the cargo ship after it sank in the Red Sea. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250728/houthis-declare-new-phase-all-ships-linked-to-israeli-ports-targeted-1122500587.html israel red sea russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International houthis, prisoner exchange, sink ships, houthis, houthis support palestine, palestinian cause, echange deal Leap Partners acquires Cool Wizard Air Conditioning Services in in the Tampa Bay Area NASHVILLE, Tenn., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Leap Partners, one of the Southeast's fastest-growing home service companies, is thrilled to announce expansion into the Tampa Bay market through the acquisition of Cool Wizard Air Conditioning. Founded in 2008 by Pino and Barbara Mastrota, Cool Wizard has built a strong, trusted presence in the Tampa Bay community," said John Cerasuolo, CEO of Leap Partners. "The Cool Wizard focus on superior customer service is exactly what we look for in a partner. We are excited to work with them to continue their growth." The company will continue to operate under the Cool Wizard name, maintaining the same high standards that customers have come to expect. Barbara and Pino Mastrota will continue to lead the business, helping to guide its next phase of growth with Leap's resources and support. "We couldn't be more excited to join forces with Leap Partners," said Pino Mastrota. "Their experience, support, and vision for the future make this a great fit. We're confident this partnership will allow Cool Wizard to grow while still serving our customers with the same care and integrity." Over the last three and a half years, Leap Partners has acquired 28 HVAC, plumbing and electrical companies across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia. The portfolio includes companies of all sizes, and Leap Partners provides support and investment for these businesses to grow and expand while empowering the local leaders to manage with autonomy. HVAC, plumbing and electrical business owners interested in selling and either staying with their companies or planning their exit strategy can visit theleappartners.com to learn more or speak with other owners about their selling experience. About Leap Partners Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Leap Partners is working to connect the best HVAC, plumbing and electrical businesses in the Southeast to build a world-class service provider. Under Leap Partners' ownership, these businesses are committed to providing industry-leading customer satisfaction and employee engagement. For more information and to read owner testimonials, visit theleappartners.com and theleappartners.com/testimonials. SOURCE Leap Partners https://sputnikglobe.com/20250729/losing-pokrovsk-would-be-a-death-sentence-for-the-ukrainian-army-1122510825.html Losing Pokrovsk Would Be a Death Sentence for the Ukrainian Army Losing Pokrovsk Would Be a Death Sentence for the Ukrainian Army Sputnik International Russia is advancing slowly but steadily in this direction of the front. Heres why it matters. 2025-07-29T16:35+0000 2025-07-29T16:35+0000 2025-07-29T16:35+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukraine russia campaign conflict ukrainian conflict https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/07/1d/1122510081_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_3674a839738f42cce50cd7929b839759.jpg 1. Key Supply HubPokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk) is a major logistics center for the entire southeastern part of Ukraine, explains Swedish Armed Forces vet Mikael Valtersson.Facing the prospect of the citys loss, Ukraines army is clinging to Pokrovsk to deny Russia access for as long as possible.2. Strategic StrongholdWith Russian forces methodically eliminating hardened Ukrainian defenses on the southeastern front since late 2023, Pokrovsk is also now the only real remnant of what was once touted as an impregnable defensive line.Once its liberated, Ukraine will have a hard time stopping large-scale Russian advances further westward.3. Gap in the FrontAfter the city is taken, the small gap in the Ukrainian frontline that already exists will grow many times, allowing Russian forces to launch operations behind heavily fortified lines in southern Zaporozhye, to the north around Kramatorsk, and eventually, possibly as far as Kharkov, Valtersson says.4. Impact on MoralePokrovsks fall will greatly impact Ukrainian morale, Valtersson predicts. It will show that Russia is on the advance, and that Ukraines choices come down to peace and loss of 25% of territory now, or continued war and the loss of 50% a couple of years from now.MSM Mythmaking vs RealityAdmitting that Russian forces have already broken into areas of the city and are poised to take it by the fall, Western media have spun things to characterize the fight for Pokrovsk as a yearlong, slow and grinding slog soaked in Russian blood.The truth, Valtersson says, is that Russian forces arrived at Pokrovsks outskirts only earlier this year, after the elimination of most of the Ukrainian southeastern front from Velikaya Novosyolka in the west to Avdeyevka in the north, and are advancing using very small units under drone cover, not human wave tactics. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250728/pentagon-eyes-ukraine-as-drone-testing-ground-after-alaska-failures-1122505709.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20250729/russia-takes-note-of-trumps-1012-day-ultimatum-on-ukraine-peace-deal-1122508339.html ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International where is pokrovsk, why is pokrovsk (krasnoarmeysk) important https://sputnikglobe.com/20250729/natos-rapid-response-in-action-europe-lacks-infrastructure-for-quick-troop-moves-1122507556.html NATOs 'Rapid Response' in Action: Europe Lacks Infrastructure for Quick Troop Moves NATOs 'Rapid Response' in Action: Europe Lacks Infrastructure for Quick Troop Moves Sputnik International European roads, bridges, and railways are not suitable for quickly transporting tanks, troops, and military supplies in the event of an armed conflict with Russia, the Financial Times newspaper reported on Tuesday, citing EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas. 2025-07-29T09:45+0000 2025-07-29T09:45+0000 2025-07-29T09:45+0000 military russia nato european union (eu) https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/105068/38/1050683881_0:189:3612:2221_1920x0_80_0_0_1f7d38cb9edba17c1f27f6f8d26a7605.jpg "The reality today is that if we want to move military equipment and troops from the western side of Europe to the eastern side, it takes weeks and in some cases months," Tzitzikostas was quoted as saying. Most existing EU infrastructure was built without considering the need to mobilize armies across the bloc, he added. According to the commissioner, aging bridges require modernization and widening and the EU needs to build new bridges to overhaul infrastructure and boost military mobility. Modernizing the necessary infrastructure would cost at least 17 billion euros ($19.6 billion), Tzitzikostas said. He added that the EU was developing a strategy to enable troop deployment "in a matter of hours, maximum a matter of days" in response to a potential attack. This involves upgrading 500 infrastructure projects along four military corridors spanning the continent. Tzitzikostas said that Brussels was planning to cut red tape to prevent "tanks getting stuck in paperwork" at borders. The strategy will be presented later this year. "We can no longer afford to be unprepared or dependent," he said. At the June 2425 NATO summit in The Hague, member states tentatively committed to raising defense spending from the current bloc-wide average of 2% of GDP, not yet met by all the members, to 5% by 2035. In recent years, Russia has cited unprecedented NATO activity near its western borders. The alliance frames its expanded initiatives as "deterring Russian aggression." Moscow has repeatedly expressed concern over NATOs force buildup in Europe. The Kremlin maintains that Russia threatens no one but will respond to actions endangering its interests. https://sputnikglobe.com/20180219/germany-nato-rapid-response-force-1061800628.html russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International nato troop mobility, eu military infrastructure, tanks stuck in europe, nato rapid response issues, eu defense spending, european roads for military transport, nato vs russia tensions, eu bridges modernization, military corridors europe, troop deployment delays https://sputnikglobe.com/20250729/russia-shoots-down-us-scheme-to-buy-out-commander-islands---1122508207.html Russia Shoots Down US Scheme to Buy Out Commander Islands Russia Shoots Down US Scheme to Buy Out Commander Islands Sputnik International Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova castigated the idea of the United States purchasing the Commander Islands from Russia. 2025-07-29T10:37+0000 2025-07-29T10:37+0000 2025-07-29T11:09+0000 russia russia maria zakharova china white house arctic https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/07/1d/1122508047_0:181:2999:1868_1920x0_80_0_0_4d48f957fbf88d4413dcd764d1990f3e.jpg Earlier, Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Fritz, who serves with the US Armys Security Assistance Command in Estonia, proposed that Washington consider purchasing the Commander Islands from Russia. In an article for Breaking Defense, Fritz argued that these islands could be used by the US to monitor potential Chinese submarine activity en route to the Arctic."But if Fritz has that kind of money, he could make America great again by paying off at least part of the US national debt," she noted.As of March 24, 2025, the US national debt was estimated at $36.64 trillion.Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Fritz, stationed in Estonia, proposed that the White House buy out the Commander Islands from Russia for $15 billion to track Chinese submarine movements."The proposal is that the United States pursue the peaceful and pragmatic purchase of the Commander Islands from the Russian Federation for $15 billion, in order to monitor potential Chinese submarine activity attempting to enter the Arctic Ocean," he penned in his article for Breaking Defense.According to the officer, the Commander Islands are strategically positioned along a potential route from Chinas Jianggezhuang naval base to the Arctic. He advocates for the United States to acquire not only the islands themselves but also the surrounding exclusive economic zone, natural resources, and infrastructure. Such an acquisition would expand the US exclusive economic zone by approximately 3.8%, Fritz observed.He believes that eventually the islands may either become part of the state of Alaska or be designated as a US unincorporated territory. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250227/us-wont-be-able-to-sweet-talk-russia-into-dropping-arctic-cooperation-with-china-expert-1121604339.html russia china arctic Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International maria zakharova comments, russian foreign ministry statement, us proposal commander islands, russia us relations, jeffrey fritz proposal, commander islands sale idea, moscow reaction, russian territory sale criticism, breaking defense article, russia arctic security https://sputnikglobe.com/20250729/russian-space-agency-chief-bakanov-arrives-in-us---roscosmos-1122506357.html Russian Space Agency Chief Bakanov Arrives in US - Roscosmos Russian Space Agency Chief Bakanov Arrives in US - Roscosmos Sputnik International Roscosmos CEO Dmitry Bakanov has arrived in the United States to meet with NASA management and the crew of the Crew Dragon spacecraft, which includes Russian Oleg Platonov, the state corporation told journalists. 2025-07-29T04:35+0000 2025-07-29T04:35+0000 2025-07-29T04:35+0000 world dmitry bakanov russia houston roscosmos nasa us space space exploration https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/03/1a/1117564355_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_9225a794fce85ea449b349a2aee02d31.jpg "Dmitry Bakanov arrived in Houston as the head of the Roscosmos delegation to meet with NASA management. This is the first face-to-face meeting of the heads of Russian and US space agencies in eight years," the statement said. It is noted that first, he and the leadership of the US space agency will visit the structural divisions of the Johnson Space Center and get acquainted with their work. In addition, the Russian delegation plans to visit the Boeing production unit, where reusable manned transport spacecraft CST-100 Starliner is being developed, and hold talks with the management of the company's space program. At the John F. Kennedy Space Center, the head of the state corporation will take part in events related to checking readiness for the launch of the next mission to the International Space Station. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250728/russia-rivals-us-in-full-spectrum-space-capabilities---roscosmos-head-1122503175.html russia houston Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International roscosmos, nasa, us-russia talks, roscosmos-nasa talks, space cooperation, space exploration, space technology https://sputnikglobe.com/20250729/sending-patriots-to-ukraine-could-paint-target-on-germany---german-constitutional-watchdog-1122506962.html Sending Patriots to Ukraine Could Paint Target on Germany - German Constitutional Watchdog Sending Patriots to Ukraine Could Paint Target on Germany - German Constitutional Watchdog Sputnik International The decision to send Patriot missile systems to Ukraine will hit German taxpayers hard, while also making Germany a target, Ralf Niemeyer, head of the German Council for the Constitution and Sovereignty, told Sputnik. 2025-07-29T08:33+0000 2025-07-29T08:33+0000 2025-07-29T08:33+0000 world germany patriot missile system patriot missiles nato ukraine russia donald trump patriot https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/07/1d/1122507117_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_93fc6216114ec9ddf6696644db4224d7.jpg The decision to send Patriot missile systems to Ukraine will hit German taxpayers hard and divert vital funding away from healthcare and infrastructure, Ralf Niemeyer, head of the German Council for the Constitution and Sovereignty, told Sputnik. At the same time, Niemeyer stressed that Germanys roads, bridges, and schools urgently need investment, as they are all in bad shape. Funneling money into weapons instead will only make the nation grow poorer, he warned. Furthermore, the move could make Germany a target, Ralf Niemeyer noted.The Washington Post reported earlier that Berlin has already sent three Patriot systems and is now in talks with Washington to send more and to refill its own shrinking arsenal. US-made Patriot air defenses are no silver bullet for Ukraine and Russias arsenal has already exposed their vulnerabilities.Earlier US President Donald Trump said that Patriot missiles are already being shipped to Ukraine, they will be supplied from Germany, which will then replace them itself."They are already being shipped. They are coming in from Germany and then replaced by Germany, and in all cases, the United States gets paid back in full," Trump told reporters.Russia believes that supplying arms to Ukraine hinders peace efforts and drags NATO allies into the conflict. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned that any Ukraine-bound weapon shipments will be a legitimate target for Russian troops. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250718/want-to-wipe-out-patriot-systems-ask-the-russians-how-1122456944.html germany ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Svetlana Ekimenko Svetlana Ekimenko News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Svetlana Ekimenko germany to send ukraine patriot systems, russia-nato showdown, ukraine crisis, ukraine hostilities, ukraine conflict, russian military, russian army, russian military equipment https://sputnikglobe.com/20250729/thailand-alerts-us-and-china-over-cambodian-truce-breaches-1122508658.html Thailand Alerts US and China Over Cambodian Truce Breaches Thailand Alerts US and China Over Cambodian Truce Breaches Sputnik International Cambodia is violating the ceasefire on a large scale, Thailand has reported this to the witnesses of the agreements Malaysia, the United States and China, Thai Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said on Tuesday. 2025-07-29T10:12+0000 2025-07-29T10:12+0000 2025-07-29T10:12+0000 asia thailand china cambodia asean us https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/07/1d/1122508644_0:511:683:895_1920x0_80_0_0_7d5db153bfcd5cec45c05de8412baebd.jpg "Cambodian troops are violating the ceasefire regime on a large scale and systematically. We have reported this to the countries that witnessed yesterday's agreements with Cambodia Malaysia, as the ASEAN chair, the United States and China," the official told reporters. Wechayachai has also asked evacuated Thai citizens not to leave shelters or return to their homes in the border zone until authorities issue a special announcement. Meanwhile, the Cambodian Defense Ministry denies violating the ceasefire agreement, ministry spokeswoman Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said. Border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia escalated into an armed conflict on July 24. Civilian casualties were reported on both sides. The incident followed a clash on May 28 between Thai and Cambodian military personnel in a disputed neutral zone, which left a Cambodian soldier dead. Some 140,000 people have been evacuated from the conflict zone on the Thai side since July 24. On Monday, ceasefire negotiations between Thai Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet took place in Kuala Lumpur, mediated by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Following the talks, the Malaysian leader said that the parties had agreed to establish a ceasefire starting at midnight. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250729/thailand-accuses-cambodia-of-ceasefire-violation--reports-1122506636.html thailand china cambodia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International thailand cambodia border conflict, ceasefire violations, thai acting prime minister phumtham wechayachai, cambodian defense ministry response, us china malaysia mediation, asean ceasefire talks, thai cambodian military clashes, border tensions southeast asia, civilian evacuations thailand, hun manet ceasefire agreement https://sputnikglobe.com/20250729/us-and-uk-discuss-zelenskys-replacement-with-yermak-budanov-and-zaluzhny--russian-foreign-intel-1122509616.html US, UK Hold Talks With Yermak, Budanov, Zaluzhny on Replacing Zelensky Russian Foreign Intel US, UK Hold Talks With Yermak, Budanov, Zaluzhny on Replacing Zelensky Russian Foreign Intel Sputnik International The Americans and British announced their decision to nominate Zaluzhny for the post of Ukrainian president, with Yermak and Budanov* "saluting the decision." 29.07.2025, Sputnik International 2025-07-29T12:04+0000 2025-07-29T12:04+0000 2025-07-29T13:09+0000 world us yury budanov valery zaluzhny volodymyr zelensky united kingdom (uk) ukraine https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/09/06/1120052119_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_b2da04ffe736b3bc6b881127e3c3d02e.jpg Representatives from the US and UK, with the participation of Ukrainian Presidential Office Head Andriy Yermak, Ukrainian Military Intelligence Directorate Head Kyrylo Budanov, and Ukraine's Ambassador to London Valery Zaluzhny, discussed the prospects of replacing Volodymyr Zelensky, according to the press service of Russias Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR)."According to information received by the SVR, not long ago, representatives from the US and the UK organized a secret meeting in a resort area in the Alps, with the participation of Head of the Ukrainian President's Office A. Yermak, Head of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defenses Intelligence Directorate K. Budanov, and former commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Ukraine's Ambassador to London V. Zaluzhny," the statement said."The prospects of replacing V. Zelensky as the head of the Kiev regime were discussed," the press service added.Yermak and Budanov secured promises from the "Anglo-Saxon" countries to maintain their current positions after Zelensky's replacement, the statement reads.Washington and London want to nominate Zaluzhny for the position of Ukrainian president.The agreement reached in the Alps regarding the replacement of Volodymyr Zelensky sheds light on the underlying reasons for his recent attempt to limit the powers of Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies, according to the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service.On July 22, the Ukrainian parliament supported a bill that cancels the independence of two anti-corruption agencies: the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). The bill was later signed by Zelensky. Several Ukrainian lawmakers viewed the bill as a move to dismantle the country's anti-corruption structures. According to Ukrainian media reports, protests against the law, which stripped NABU and SAPO of their independence, took place across the country starting July 22.On July 24, against the backdrop of mass protests across Ukraine, Zelensky claimed he had agreed on a draft law that would supposedly strengthen the independence of these agencies. According to documents on the Rada's website, the bill was submitted on July 24. Previously, Ukrainian Parliament Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk stated that the Rada would consider the bill on July 31, adding that he would propose adopting it in both the first and second readings and immediately sending it to Zelensky for signature.* Listed by Russia's Financial Monitoring Service as extremist and terrorist https://sputnikglobe.com/20250724/zelenskys-days-are-numbered-hell-be-the-ultimate-loser-ex-dod-analyst-1122487081.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20250728/zelensky-on-the-ropes-nabu-and-sapo-law-backfires-1122505179.html united kingdom (uk) ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International us, yury budanov, valery zaluzhny, volodymyr zelensky, united kingdom (uk), ukraine https://sputnikglobe.com/20250729/us-uses-iranian-nuclear-program-as-excuse-for-confrontation---supreme-leader-1122511418.html US Uses Iranian Nuclear Program as Excuse for Confrontation - Supreme Leader US Uses Iranian Nuclear Program as Excuse for Confrontation - Supreme Leader Sputnik International Tehran's nuclear program and uranium enrichment are just an excuse for the United States to target Iran, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Tuesday. 2025-07-29T18:35+0000 2025-07-29T18:35+0000 2025-07-29T18:35+0000 world middle east ayatollah ali khamenei iran iranian nuclear program nuclear talks https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/04/0e/1121868108_0:0:2003:1128_1920x0_80_0_0_0965baa03b54697646d5a84c5bd0f3ea.jpg "All their talk about nuclear issues, [uranium] enrichment, human rights, and such things are nothing but excuses. What upsets them is the fact that the Islamic Republic is able to produce new ideas in the various fields of science and knowledge be it in the humanities, technical sciences, or religious sciences," Khamenei said. Iran and the US have held five rounds of Oman-mediated talks on the nuclear program. The sixth round was scheduled for June 15, but the Israeli attack on Iran and the US bombing of Iranian nuclear sites scrapped those plans. Iranian officials reject accusations that Iran has been secretly making a nuclear weapon, stressing that Tehran is ready to resume talks with Washington without preconditions. In particular, Iran opposes the US demand to stop uranium enrichment. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said that Tehran had no plans to hold talks with Washington yet, arguing that conditions for a new round of consultations have not matured. Iran and the EU3 countries France, Germany, and the United Kingdom held nuclear talks in Istanbul on July 25 for the first time since the end of "the 12-day war." The talks took place amid EU3's threats to reimpose sanctions on Tehran if a new nuclear deal is not reached by the end of summer. As a deterrent, the Iranian parliament has drafted a bill to withdraw the Islamic Republic from the Non-Proliferation Treaty if the European trio reimposes sanctions envisaged by the 2015 nuclear deal, which remains formally in effect. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250722/iran-may-consider-direct-talks-with-us-in-case-of-equal-approach---foreign-minister-1122470393.html iran Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International khamenei us nuclear talks, iran uranium enrichment, iran nuclear program, us iran relations, tehran nuclear talks, us nuclear demands, iran npt withdrawal, eu3 iran nuclear deal, iran sanctions eu, khamenei comments, iran nuclear weapon accusations, oman-mediated talks Tony Too Tall teams up with Myles Heffernan Jr., as he looks to rebound in race 15 on Tuesday evening at Red Shores at the Summerside Raceway. The Prince County, P.E.I. oval has a 16-dash card starting at 6 p.m. (ADT), and the $4,700 class in race 15 has drawn a compact but competitive group of five. Tony Too Tall, to be driven by Heffernan Jr., will leave from post five as he makes his first start since a third-place finish in the $50,000 Governors Plate in line to Myles Heffernan Sr., at Summerside. The Trevor Hicken trainee is a three-time winner this season for owner Perry Burke of Gross-Ile., Que. Mantario gets post three for trainer/driver David Dowling as the nine-year-old son of Sportswriter rides a string of six straight on-the-board finishes for owner Jennifer Ritchie of Kingston, N.B. Morning line favourite Brookdale Johnny (Paul Langille) gets post four after finishing second-best to Bettor Than Spring his last start at Summerside in a 1:53.4 clocking. Phil Sizer trains the 16-time winner for owners Doug Polley Sr., and Doug Polley Jr., of Amherst, N.S. Sauble Attack (Ken Murphy) leaves from post two as the Tyne Valley pacer was a runner-up to Rose Run X Con at this level last week. Paul Biggar co-owns and trains for co-owner Donald Callbeck of Kensington, P.E.I. Sharky (Taylor Doyle) holds down the rail for owner/trainer John McGuirk after a fourth-place finish in his latest. The Backstretch Beat picks Mantario to provide the mild upset: This veteran campaigner has been dancing in tough company all season and drops into a very winnable spot tonight. He catches a class hes very familiar with and gets Dowling in the bike from a cozy post three. Driver Norris Rogers sits on the precipice of a milestone as he is three wins shy of 1,000 in his career. The 54-year-old Summerside, P.E.I. native is a five-time former winner of the dash title at Summerside as he dominated the Prince County oval in the late 1990s. Rogers has eight drives on the Tuesday card. To view Tuesday's harness racing entries, click the following link: Tuesday Entries - Summerside Raceway. (With files from Red Shores; Tony Too Tall shown winning a previous race) The stage is set for next week's Industry Day after a pair of $10,000 eliminations for the Battle of the Belles for Ontario-sired two-year-old pacing fillies were won by Daya and Romantic Beauty on Monday, July 28 at Grand River Raceway ahead of next week's $153,000 final, with the latter scoring in a track record 1:52.2. In the second elimination, Romantic Beauty (pictured above) overtook 3-5 favourite Jen Tilly late, holding her off down the stretch for a 7-1 maiden victory in her first lifetime start. Driven by Doug McNair and trained by Gregg McNair, the new divisional track record holder is a homebred Bettors Delight-Precious Beauty filly, owned by James Avritt Sr. of Lebanon, Kentucky. P N G Shadow and Horse With A Plan finished third and fourth to advance to the final. In addition to being a track record, the mile is also currently the fastest mile by any freshman pacer over a Canadian five-eighth-mile track this year. "Time-wise, I'm pretty surprised. She's had three qualifiers, and Doug [McNair] liked her pretty good all along...It's tough to get him to like one," said Gregg McNair, speaking with Greg Blanchard in the winner's circle. "She had a virus and a bit of a high temperature, she was up around 103-104 [degrees Fahrenheit], so we had to take her out [of the OSS Grassroots leg one on July 7 at Woodbine Mohawk Park] and wait on her, that's all. She had a sister [Precocious Beauty] one time who started out the same way [in the 2013 New York Sire Stakes]." McNair said that Romantic Beauty didn't show much physical similarity to a half-sister he once trained, the 2013 Dan Patch and O'Brien Two-Year-Old Pacing Filly of the year. "Her sister, Precocious Beauty, was a big mare," he said. "This mare here is more like the sire, I guess, Bettors Delight. She's trained pretty good all winter. I wasn't looking for that tonight, though." In the first of two $10,000 Battle of the Belles eliminations on Monday night, 4-5 favourite Daya emerged the 1:53.3 winner over T H Check Me Out in race two. Lavender Seelster and Malicia Speed finished third and fourth to also advance. Trainer Jack Darling told interviewer Blanchard about Daya's preparation for the elim: "I didn't change anything. [It was] just a very mild week. This track is noted for being easy to get around, so I wasn't worried about anything." Daya is a homebred Bulldog Hanover-Beach Of A Time daughter owned by Jack Darling Stables Ltd. of Cambridge, Ont. Darling told Blanchard that she was "really good from day one, very honest. She's a filly that likes her work and that really helps." Darling trained world champion Bulldog Hanover; Daya is from the stallion's first crop. "It's really exciting. I watch all of them and I cheer for all of them," said Darling. "They're just outstanding-looking horses. The ones that I'm training are very smart and have speed. They seem to have everything going for them." Prior to Daya's elimination win, she broke her maiden in going-away style on July 7, capturing an OSS Grassroots leg one division at Mohawk, then finished second to A Clean Deal in the July 17 OSS Gold leg two at Mohawk. "I was happy with her effort," said Darling. "[She] looked honest on the top. Jody [Jamieson] said she was really good, seemed to win in hand, so she's a little bit like the old man Bulldog -- she doesn't really get tired coming to the wire. After the wire, she keeps going." The top four fillies from each elimination and one other drawn by lot (Talbot Kristen) moved into the draw for the $153,000 Battle of the Belles final, conducted after race four on Monday night. The field is listed below. $153,000 Battle of the Belles Post - Horse - Listed Driver - Trainer 1. TH Check Me Out - James MacDonald - Blake MacIntosh 2. Malicia Speed - Doug McNair - Carl Jamieson 3. Romantic Beauty - Doug McNair - Gregg McNair 4. Lavender Seelster - Paul MacKenzie - Dr. Ian Moore 5. Daya - Jody Jamieson - Jack Darling 6. Talbot Kristen - Bob McClure - John Pentland 7. Horse With A Plan - Travis Cullen - Jodie Cullen 8. Jen Tilly - James MacDonald - Scott McEneny 9. P N G Shadow - Jody Jamieson - Dr. Ian Moore With no eliminations required, the $227,100 Battle of Waterloo final for Ontario-sired two-year-old open pacers was drawn before the Grand River simulcast with a field of eight slated to go on Monday, Aug. 4. The field is listed below. $227,100 Battle of Waterloo Post - Horse - Driver - Trainer 1. Borderline Mobby - James MacDonald - Dave Menary 2. Ryder Ross - Doug McNair - Gregg McNair 3. Beau Jangles - Bob McClure - Dr. Ian Moore 4. Tilthecowscomehome - Jody Jamieson - Carl Jamieson 5. Speaksoftlytome - Louis-Philippe Roy - Dave Menary 6. No Waitlist - Travis Henry - Tyler Moore 7. D A Lets Dance - Doug McNair - Gregg McNair 8. Dax Seelster - Trevor Henry - Scott McEneny The likely favourite is Beau Jangles, the undefeated Cattlewash-Mrs Major Hill colt trained by Dr. Ian Moore. The former $90,278 Standardbred Horse Sale yearling has two Ontario Sires Stakes Gold victories at Mohawk so far this year for driver Bob McClure and owners Graham Grace Stables of Clifton, Virginia, Kiwi Stables of La Plata, Maryland and Bolton Stables of Clermont, Florida. Bred by Tara Hills Stud Ltd. of Port Perry, Ont., Beau Jangles is the fastest two-year-old pacer so far this season in North America by virtue of a 1:50.1 triumph. Borderline Mobby drew the coveted rail for the Battle of Waterloo. The Dave Menary trainee broke his maiden in his first career start on June 28 at Mohawk before a pair of fourth-place finishes in OSS Gold legs for driver James MacDonald. Borderline Mobby, a Cattlewash-Hot Gossip colt who sold for $34,722 as a yearling at the Standardbred Horse Sale, was bred by Nicholas Malcolm of Milton, Ont. The colt is owned by Menary Racing Inc. of Rockton, Ont. Larry Menary of Branchton, Ont., Ryan Morefield of Howell, Michigan and Pit Bull Stable of River Vale, New Jersey. Tilthecowscomehome, a Cattlewash-Dance Until Dawn colt, is another Battle of Waterloo headliner. Trained by Carl Jameson and driven by Jody Jamieson, the $94,595 Lexington Selected Sale yearling acquisition was bred by Stephanie Smith-Rothaug of West Jefferson, Ohio. Tilthecowscomehome won the Tompkins-Geers two-year-old colt and gelding pace at Mohawk on June 27 over 1-5 favourite Dad, then finished a fast-closing second to Beau Jangles on July 5 and 19 from tough outside posts. Joanne Morrison of Beeton, Ont. and Blair Corbeil of Leduc, Alta. share ownership with Carl and Jody Jamieson. Grand River Raceway will welcome guests for the 36th annual Industry Day, happening on Civic Holiday Monday, Aug. 4, with a 12:30 p.m. post time. Its an exciting afternoon packed with top-tier harness racing and fun for the entire family. Winbak Farm will return as the Battle of Waterloo presenting sponsor for the fourth year in a row. The marquee attractions of Industry Day include, the $227,100 Battle of Waterloo, presented by Winbak Farm, and its companion race, the $153,000 Battle of the Belles -- both spotlighting Ontario-sired two-year-old pacers. The Battle of Waterloo continues to stand as Grand River's signature event and a key early highlight in the Ontario stakes season. The undercard will feature thrilling matchups, including Ontarios top three-year-old pacing colts competing in an Ontario Sires Stakes Gold division. In a significant show of support for the sport, the Grand River Agricultural Society (GRAS) has boosted the purses for several undercard races, including the Preferred events, which will now each offer a purse of $20,000. This investment reflects GRASs understanding of the critical role horse racing plays -- not only for the horsepeople directly involved, but also for the broader agricultural sector and rural communities across Ontario. Industry Day is all about celebrating Ontario harness racing, and were proud to take it to the next level this year with increase in purse money for this special day, said Jenna MacDonell, Raceway Manager at Grand River Raceway. Were grateful to the Grand River Agricultural Society for their continued support, and to Winbak Farm for once again joining us as the title sponsor of the Battle of Waterloo." To view Monday's harness racing results, click the following link: Tuesday Results - Grand River Raceway. (With files from Grand River Raceway) Hunt Off The Press scorched Monticello Raceway, setting a 1:53.1 divisional track record for two-year-old male pacers in the $153,562 New York Sire Stakes on Monday, July 28. Trained by Jared Bako and driven by Tyler Buter, the Huntsville-Off The Press gelding lowered the track record for two-year-old male pacers by one full second. Leaving from the inside post, Hunt Off The Press avoided some early commotion to his outside with three starters misfiring and proceeded to pocket Casper The Ghost (Mark MacDonald) through the first turn while 1-5 favourite Fragment (Jason Bartlett) pressed on three-wide and made the lead by the opening quarter pole, which was reached in :27.3. The bettors' choice led the field of nine in single file alignment with the early breakers all back on stride past the half in :56 and headed to three-quarters in 1:24.3. Hunt Off The Press stayed in the hunt while Ideal Rebel (Jordan Stratton) was flushed first-up by Lakewood Nick (Dan Rawlings) from mid-pack, but the latter two remained well off the top pair. Turning for home, it was a two-horse race with Fragment clear by 2-1/2 lengths, but Hunt Off The Press rallied from behind and went by in deep stretch with a :28.1 final quarter sprint to prevail by 1-1/4 lengths. Lakewood Nick was the best of the rest in third, 11 lengths behind. Hunt Off The Press notched his second victory to go along with a pair of runner-up finishes in his first four career starts -- all in Sire Stakes action. A $47,297 yearling purchase at the Lexington Selected Sale, he's earned $166,389 to date for owner Blue Chip Bloodstock of Wallkill, New York. A pair of $27,397 Excelsior Series divisions contested on Monday were won by the Kevin Lare-trained Southwind Iron (American Ideal-Southwind Inertia) in a career-best 1:56.2 clocking with Dan Rawlings driving and Killing Joke (American Ideal - Q T Pie Hanover), who broke his maiden in 1:55.3, with Ridge Warren working out the winning trip for the Janice Connor stable. Monticello Raceway reported that the day's 10-race card handled $451,724 USD. (Standardbred Canada with files from Monticello Raceway; photo of Hunt Off The Press from a previous win) Woodbine Mohawk Park's race office would like to inform trainers of multiple Pop-Up Series starting over the next week. A Pop-Up Series will be offered for pacing horses and geldings that are non-winners of $50,000 in a minimum of 12 starts in 2025 or that started for a purse of $11,000 or less in their last start. It will start on Saturday, Aug. 2. The purses will be $17,000. There will be another Pop-Up Series for pacing horses and geldings that have started for a purse of $7,500 or less in one of their last three starts. It will kick off on Monday, Aug. 4. The purses will be $12,000. The third Pop-Up Series is an $8,000 claiming event for pacing horses and geldings that are non-winners of $5,000 in their past five starts. There will be allowances for age. Horses must start in two legs to be eligible for the final. The series will start on Tuesday, Aug. 5. The purses will be $10,000. The entry box closes each draw day at 10:30 a.m. (With files from Woodbine) Woodbine Mohawk Parks race office would like to inform all trainers that the entry box for Saturday, Aug. 2 is extremely short and will remain open until Wednesday, July 30. Trainers can still enter in all classes for Saturday up until 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday. The draw will be released later in the afternoon. Mohawk would also like to remind trainers that two new Pop-Up Series will begin next week on Monday and Tuesday. To view the condition sheet, click here. (Woodbine) Century-old Xicang Market in Xi'an brimming with vitality Xinhua) 08:22, July 29, 2025 Tourists visit a second-hand market at the Xicang Urban Memories Park in Lianhu District of Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, July 5, 2025. Originally a granary site during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Xicang Market in Xi'an's Lianhu district now buzzes with life every Thursday and Sunday. The century-old bazaar has evolved into one of the city's largest grassroots secondhand trading hubs as well as a living emblem of the local folk culture. Since 2024, the areas has undergone minor urban renewal efforts to help preserve the traditional market at its core while upgrading existing facilities to build the Xicang Urban Memories Park. This strategy allows youthful trends to coexist with the market's unique charm, injecting new vitality into the historic block. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) Tourists visit the Xicang Urban Memories Park in Lianhu District of Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, July 27, 2025. Originally a granary site during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Xicang Market in Xi'an's Lianhu district now buzzes with life every Thursday and Sunday. The century-old bazaar has evolved into one of the city's largest grassroots secondhand trading hubs as well as a living emblem of the local folk culture. Since 2024, the areas has undergone minor urban renewal efforts to help preserve the traditional market at its core while upgrading existing facilities to build the Xicang Urban Memories Park. This strategy allows youthful trends to coexist with the market's unique charm, injecting new vitality into the historic block. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) Visitors purchase products at the Xicang Market in Lianhu District of Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, July 27, 2025. Originally a granary site during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Xicang Market in Xi'an's Lianhu district now buzzes with life every Thursday and Sunday. The century-old bazaar has evolved into one of the city's largest grassroots secondhand trading hubs as well as a living emblem of the local folk culture. Since 2024, the areas has undergone minor urban renewal efforts to help preserve the traditional market at its core while upgrading existing facilities to build the Xicang Urban Memories Park. This strategy allows youthful trends to coexist with the market's unique charm, injecting new vitality into the historic block. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) Visitors are seen at the Xicang Market in Lianhu District of Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, July 27, 2025. Originally a granary site during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Xicang Market in Xi'an's Lianhu district now buzzes with life every Thursday and Sunday. The century-old bazaar has evolved into one of the city's largest grassroots secondhand trading hubs as well as a living emblem of the local folk culture. Since 2024, the areas has undergone minor urban renewal efforts to help preserve the traditional market at its core while upgrading existing facilities to build the Xicang Urban Memories Park. This strategy allows youthful trends to coexist with the market's unique charm, injecting new vitality into the historic block. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) Visitors purchase products at the Xicang Market in Lianhu District of Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, July 27, 2025. Originally a granary site during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Xicang Market in Xi'an's Lianhu district now buzzes with life every Thursday and Sunday. The century-old bazaar has evolved into one of the city's largest grassroots secondhand trading hubs as well as a living emblem of the local folk culture. Since 2024, the areas has undergone minor urban renewal efforts to help preserve the traditional market at its core while upgrading existing facilities to build the Xicang Urban Memories Park. This strategy allows youthful trends to coexist with the market's unique charm, injecting new vitality into the historic block. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) Tourists visit the Xicang Urban Memories Park in Lianhu District of Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, July 27, 2025. Originally a granary site during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Xicang Market in Xi'an's Lianhu district now buzzes with life every Thursday and Sunday. The century-old bazaar has evolved into one of the city's largest grassroots secondhand trading hubs as well as a living emblem of the local folk culture. Since 2024, the areas has undergone minor urban renewal efforts to help preserve the traditional market at its core while upgrading existing facilities to build the Xicang Urban Memories Park. This strategy allows youthful trends to coexist with the market's unique charm, injecting new vitality into the historic block. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) Tourists purchase products at a second-hand market of Xicang Urban Memories Park in Lianhu District of Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, July 5, 2025. Originally a granary site during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Xicang Market in Xi'an's Lianhu district now buzzes with life every Thursday and Sunday. The century-old bazaar has evolved into one of the city's largest grassroots secondhand trading hubs as well as a living emblem of the local folk culture. Since 2024, the areas has undergone minor urban renewal efforts to help preserve the traditional market at its core while upgrading existing facilities to build the Xicang Urban Memories Park. This strategy allows youthful trends to coexist with the market's unique charm, injecting new vitality into the historic block. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) Tourists visit a second-hand market at the Xicang Urban Memories Park in Lianhu District of Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, July 27, 2025. Originally a granary site during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Xicang Market in Xi'an's Lianhu district now buzzes with life every Thursday and Sunday. The century-old bazaar has evolved into one of the city's largest grassroots secondhand trading hubs as well as a living emblem of the local folk culture. Since 2024, the areas has undergone minor urban renewal efforts to help preserve the traditional market at its core while upgrading existing facilities to build the Xicang Urban Memories Park. This strategy allows youthful trends to coexist with the market's unique charm, injecting new vitality into the historic block. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) Tourists visit an exhibiton at the Xicang Urban Memories Park in Lianhu District of Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, July 27, 2025. Originally a granary site during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Xicang Market in Xi'an's Lianhu district now buzzes with life every Thursday and Sunday. The century-old bazaar has evolved into one of the city's largest grassroots secondhand trading hubs as well as a living emblem of the local folk culture. Since 2024, the areas has undergone minor urban renewal efforts to help preserve the traditional market at its core while upgrading existing facilities to build the Xicang Urban Memories Park. This strategy allows youthful trends to coexist with the market's unique charm, injecting new vitality into the historic block. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) Tourists try interactive installations at Xicang Urban Memories Park in Lianhu District of Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, July 27, 2025. Originally a granary site during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Xicang Market in Xi'an's Lianhu district now buzzes with life every Thursday and Sunday. The century-old bazaar has evolved into one of the city's largest grassroots secondhand trading hubs as well as a living emblem of the local folk culture. Since 2024, the areas has undergone minor urban renewal efforts to help preserve the traditional market at its core while upgrading existing facilities to build the Xicang Urban Memories Park. This strategy allows youthful trends to coexist with the market's unique charm, injecting new vitality into the historic block. (Xinhua/Zou Jingyi) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The sixth global data center expands data security and access compliance to global customers. RALEIGH, N.C. and SYDNEY, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pendo, the world's first software experience management platform, has opened a data center in Australia, strengthening its data security and local compliance with general privacy law and sector-specific mandates in the region. The new onshore facility benefits Pendo's more than 120 regional customers, many of whom work in regulated industries and prioritize local data residency. "We take our customer data responsibilities seriously, so ensuring we can host the data in Australia is critical," said Aydin Mustafa, general manager for product development at HUB24, a leading wealth management platform. "We're delighted to be partnering with Pendo, which enables us to deeply understand our customers and how they are using our solutions." Global companies value relationships with vendors like Pendo that can comply with industry and regulatory standards for data privacy and security. Pendo now operates six global data centers, which include sites in the United States, the European Union, and Japan, and is compliant with SOC2, GDPR, TX-RAMP, and HIPAA. Pendo opened its Sydney office in 2020 and has grown its Asia-Pacific team by 40 percent in the past year to support rapid regional expansion. International growth comes as Pendo accelerates its investment in AI innovation, announcing the recent acquisition of the no-code predictive analytics platform Forwrd.ai and a series of product releases that help companies measure the performance of AI agents, improve user onboarding, cut support costs, increase upsell revenue, and drive team productivity. "Having a customer-first mindset means removing barriers for customers, like data storage compliance, so they can focus on creating software that users love," said APAC Area Vice President at Pendo, Benjamin Weldon. "I believe this region will be a global hub for digital innovation, where product-led strategies drive growth and meaningful customer engagement." About Pendo At Pendo, we're on a mission to improve the world's experience with software. Thousands of global companies use Pendo to provide better software experiences for 900 million people every month. Pendo improves business outcomes by enabling non-engineers to analyze, assess, and act on software issues. Our integrated Software Experience Management (SXM) platform manages the entire enterprise software asset: Customer- and employee-facing applications; desktop and mobile platforms; and SaaS, AI and Agentic software. Find out more at pendo.com SOURCE Pendo By Laurie Chen BEIJING (Reuters) -Sexually exploitative images of Chinese women were shared in encrypted Telegram chat groups with hundreds of thousands of users, Chinese media reported, triggering widespread outrage online. A Chinese-language Telegram chat group named "MaskPark tree hole forum" shared images of women secretly taken or filmed in locations, including public toilets, with more than 100,000 anonymous users in China and overseas, said Chinese state-run newspaper Southern Daily, which first reported the chat groups' existence last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some users posted private images of their current or ex-girlfriends and female family members, the report said, and that some footage of women secretly filmed using pinhole cameras in public spaces was being sold in the chat groups. Hashtags related to the issue on Chinese microblogging platform Weibo gained more than 270 million views on Tuesday. "It's truly frightening how secret filming has infiltrated everyday life," read one comment. China has strict obscenity laws and regularly scrubs content deemed pornographic from its heavily-controlled domestic internet, so the scale of the image sharing has shocked many in China. People must use VPN software to access Telegram, which is blocked in China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other Telegram sub-forums targeting Chinese-speaking users with pornographic content had as many as 900,000 members, the Southern Daily said. "My ex-boyfriend secretly took photos of me during sex, posted my private photos to the group without my permission and publicised my social media accounts," a female victim who was not named told the newspaper. She was alerted to the forum in May through an anonymous tip-off, adding that many of the chat group messages self-deleted and the images could not be saved or screenshotted due to the settings in the Telegram chat. Chatroom users also sold everyday objects, such as incense holders, fitted with pinhole cameras to secretly film women, according to chat records published in the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This has heightened the concerns of many women, as voyeuristic incidents seem to be ubiquitous," said Huang Simin, a Chinese lawyer who specialises in sexual violence cases. "I've noticed a general sense of powerlessness (women feel with regards to legal protections), a feeling that there's no effective way to address such incidents." The main MaskPark forum has been taken down but some smaller sub-forums remain active on Telegram, the Southern Daily said. "The sharing of non-consensual pornography is explicitly forbidden by Telegram's terms of service and is removed whenever discovered," a Telegram spokesperson told Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Moderators proactively monitor public parts of the platform and accept reports in order to remove millions of pieces of harmful content each day, including non-consensual pornography." SOUTH KOREA SCANDAL Chinese social media commenters likened the incident to South Korea's "Nth room" scandal, where operators of pay-to-view Telegram chatrooms blackmailed at least 74 women, including underage girls, into sharing sexually explicit images of themselves with tens of thousands of users. The case sparked a national outcry in South Korea and the main ringleader was sentenced to 40 years in prison in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement "Compared to the 'Nth room' incident, the evil of MaskPark is even more normalised and diffuse. There is no single principal offender and users share images for 'pleasure' not profit," read one Weibo post with more than 14,000 likes. Chatroom users who posted images can be investigated under Chinese law for "producing, selling and disseminating obscene materials for profit" as well as "illegally using special equipment for eavesdropping and taking non-consensual photos," said Huang. But the offences of secret filming and photography carry relatively light punishments if the content is not deemed obscene, she added, with a fine of up to 500 yuan ($69.68) and 10 days' administrative detention for serious cases. It is also difficult for Chinese police to punish offenders over MaskPark because Telegram is encrypted and hosted overseas, said a Chinese legal researcher who requested anonymity for reasons of sensitivity. Advertisement Advertisement "Criminal cases require a high evidence threshold, so disseminating intimate images often remains difficult to prosecute due to insufficient evidence," they said. "There are no specific regulations regarding the dissemination of intimate images of adult women." Both lawyers called for stronger government regulatory oversight of gender-based abuse on online platforms. "I hope that China will develop criminal laws to regulate carrying out voyeurism and sexual violence through visual imagery in the future," said Huang. ($1 = 7.1755 Chinese yuan renminbi) (Reporting by Laurie Chen; Additional reporting by Tiffany Le; Editing by Kate Mayberry) This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: EnIGMA presentation at ICML 2025. Researchers Talor Abramovich (left) and Minghao Shao (right). Credit: Minghao Shao Artificial intelligence agentsAI systems that can work independently toward specific goals without constant human guidancehave demonstrated strong capabilities in software development and web navigation. Their effectiveness in cybersecurity has remained limited, however. That may soon change, thanks to a research team from NYU Tandon School of Engineering, NYU Abu Dhabi and other universities that developed an AI agent capable of autonomously solving complex cybersecurity challenges. The system, called EnIGMA, was presented this month at the International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML) 2025 in Vancouver, Canada. "EnIGMA is about using Large Language Model agents for cybersecurity applications," said Meet Udeshi, a NYU Tandon Ph.D. student and co-author of the research. Udeshi is advised by Ramesh Karri, Chair of NYU Tandon's Electrical and Computer Engineering Department (ECE) and a faculty member of the NYU Center for Cybersecurity and NYU Center for Advanced Technology in Telecommunications (CATT), and by Farshad Khorrami, ECE professor and CATT faculty member. Both Karri and Khorrami are co-authors on the paper, with Karri serving as a senior author. To build EnIGMA, the researchers started with an existing framework called SWE-agent, which was originally designed for software engineering tasks. However, cybersecurity challenges required specialized tools that didn't exist in previous AI systems. "We have to restructure those interfaces to feed it into an LLM properly. So we've done that for a couple of cybersecurity tools," Udeshi explained. The key innovation was developing what they call "Interactive Agent Tools" that convert visual cybersecurity programs into text-based formats the AI can understand. Traditional cybersecurity tools like debuggers and network analyzers use graphical interfaces with clickable buttons, visual displays, and interactive elements that humans can see and manipulate. "Large language models process text only, but these interactive tools with graphical user interfaces work differently, so we had to restructure those interfaces to work with LLMs," Udeshi said. The team built their own dataset by collecting and structuring Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges specifically for large language models. These gamified cybersecurity competitions simulate real-world vulnerabilities and have traditionally been used to train human cybersecurity professionals. EnIGMA is an LM agent fed with CTF challenges from the NYU CTF benchmark. It interacts with the computer through an environment that is built on top of SWE-agent (Yang et al., 2024) and extends it to cybersecurity. We incorporate new interactive tools that assist the agent in debugging and connecting to remote server. The agent iterates through interactions and feedback from the environment until it solves the challenge. Credit: Talor Abramovich et al. "CTFs are like a gamified version of cybersecurity used in academic competitions. They're not true cybersecurity problems that you would face in the real world, but they are very good simulations," Udeshi noted. Paper co-author Minghao Shao, a NYU Tandon Ph.D. student and Global Ph.D. Fellow at NYU Abu Dhabi who is advised by Karri and Muhammad Shafique, Professor of Computer Engineering at NYU Abu Dhabi and ECE Global Network Professor at NYU Tandon, described the technical architecture: "We built our own CTF benchmark dataset and created a specialized data loading system to feed these challenges into the model." Shafique is also a co-author on the paper. The framework includes specialized prompts that provide the model with instructions tailored to cybersecurity scenarios. EnIGMA demonstrated superior performance across multiple benchmarks. The system was tested on 390 CTF challenges across four different benchmarks, achieving state-of-the-art results and solving more than three times as many challenges as previous AI agents. During the research conducted approximately 12 months ago, "Claude 3.5 Sonnet from Anthropic was the best model, and GPT-4o was second at that time," according to Udeshi. The research also identified a previously unknown phenomenon called "soliloquizing," where the AI model generates hallucinated observations without actually interacting with the environment, a discovery that could have important consequences for AI safety and reliability. Beyond this technical finding, the potential applications extend outside of academic competitions. "If you think of an autonomous LLM agent that can solve these CTFs, that agent has substantial cybersecurity skills that you can use for other cybersecurity tasks as well," Udeshi explained. The agent could potentially be applied to real-world vulnerability assessment, with the ability to "try hundreds of different approaches" autonomously. For Udeshi, whose research focuses on industrial control system security, the framework opens new possibilities for securing robotic systems and industrial control systems. Shao sees potential applications beyond cybersecurity, including quantum code generation and chip design vulnerability detection. The researchers acknowledge the dual-use nature of their technology. While EnIGMA could help security professionals identify and patch vulnerabilities more efficiently, it could also potentially be misused for malicious purposes. The team has notified representatives from major AI companies, including Meta, Anthropic, and OpenAI about their results. More information: EnIGMA: Interactive Tools Substantially Assist LM Agents in Finding Security Vulnerabilities: icml.cc/virtual/2025/poster/45428 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon speaks at the 2024 summer meeting of the National Governors Association, July 11, 2024, in Salt Lake City. Credit: AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, File An artificial intelligence data center that would use more electricity than every home in Wyoming combined before expanding to as much as five times that size will be built soon near Cheyenne, according to the city's mayor. "It's a game changer. It's huge," Mayor Patrick Collins said Monday. With cool weathergood for keeping computer temperatures downand an abundance of inexpensive electricity from a top energy-producing state, Wyoming's capital has become a hub of computing power. The city has been home to Microsoft data centers since 2012. An $800 million data center announced last year by Facebook parent company Meta Platforms is nearing completion, Collins said. The latest data center, a joint effort between regional energy infrastructure company Tallgrass and AI data center developer Crusoe, would begin at 1.8 gigawatts of electricity and be scalable to 10 gigawatts, according to a joint company statement. A gigawatt can power as many as 1 million homes. But that's more homes than Wyoming has people. The least populated state, Wyoming, has about 590,000 people. And it's a major exporter of energy. A top producer of coal, oil and gas, Wyoming ranks behind only Texas, New Mexico and Pennsylvania as a top net energy-producing state, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Accounting for fossil fuels, Wyoming produces about 12 times more energy than it consumes. The state exports almost three-fifths of the electricity it produces, according to the EIA. But this proposed data center is so big, it would have its own dedicated energy from gas generation and renewable sources, according to Collins and company officials. Gov. Mark Gordon praised the project's value to the state's gas industry. "This is exciting news for Wyoming and for Wyoming natural gas producers," Gordon said in the statement. While data centers are energy-hungry, experts say companies can help reduce their effect on the climate by powering them with renewable energy rather than fossil fuels. Even so, electricity customers might see their bills increase as utilities plan for massive data projects on the grid. The data center would be built several miles (kilometers) south of Cheyenne off U.S. 85 near the Colorado state line. State and local regulators would need to sign off on the project, but Collins was optimistic construction could begin soon. "I believe their plans are to go sooner rather than later," Collins said. OpenAI, the developer of Chat GPT, has been scouring the U.S. for sites for a massive AI data center effort called Stargate, but a Crusoe spokesperson declined to say if the Cheyenne project was one. "We are not at a stage that we are ready to announce our tenant there," said the spokesperson, Andrew Schmitt. "I can't confirm or deny that is going to be one of the stargate." Recently, OpenAI announced it had switched on the first phase of a Crusoe-built data center complex in Abilene, Texas, in a partnership with software giant Oracle. "To the best of our knowledge, it is the largest data centerwe think of it as a campusin the world," OpenAI's chief global affairs officer Chris Lehane told The Associated Press last week. "It generates, roughly and depending how you count, about a gigawatt of energy." OpenAI has also been looking elsewhere in the U.S. to expand its data centers. It said last week that it has entered into an agreement with Oracle to develop another 4.5 gigawatts of data center capacity. "We're now in a position where we have, in a really concrete way, identified over five gigawatts of energy that we're going to be able to build around," Lehane said. OpenAI hasn't named any locations, besides its flagship site in Texas, where it plans to build data centers. As of earlier this year, Wyoming was not one of the 16 states where OpenAI said it was looking for locations to build new data centers. 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adw8588 An international team led by researchers at The University of Manchester's National Graphene Institute has demonstrated a device capable of electrically controlling heat flow, potentially transforming thermal management in aerospace and advanced electronic applications. The findings are detailed in Science Advances. The team introduced a new type of thermal switch utilizing high thermal conductivity graphite films. When a voltage is applied, ions insert between graphite layers. These ions disrupt phonon motion, cutting thermal conductivity by up to 1,300%. Removing the voltage expels the ions and restores the original heat-carrying capacity. This powerful modulation allows the device to actively turn heat conduction "on" and "off" at will, mirroring the functionality of electronic transistors, but for heat instead of electricity. "This discovery represents a significant advancement in thermal management technology. For the first time, we've demonstrated a practical electrothermal device that provides precise and reversible control overheat transport," said senior author Professor Coskun Kocabas. "What makes our device truly transformative is its ability to operate reliably in extreme environments such as space," said Dr. Pietro Steiner, lead author and current technology lead for graphene-based thermal technologies at SmartIR Ltd., a spinout from the University of Manchester. "The solid-state nature and absence of mechanical parts make it particularly attractive for aerospace applications, where reliability, weight, and efficiency are critical." Beyond basic switching, the team demonstrated that their device could actively steer heat flow in desired directions. By configuring voltages across patterned electrodes, they created anisotropic thermal conduction pathways, opening possibilities for programmable thermal management systems. Kocabas added, "This thermal switching technology could revolutionize spacecraft thermal regulation, offering dynamic and reconfigurable solutions to manage excess heat without complex moving mechanisms or bulky radiators." Spacecraft often rely on radiators or mechanical valves to dump excess heat. These systems add weight and risk mechanical failure under vibration. A thin, solid-state switch removes those constraints. It can operate in ultra-high vacuum and tolerate radiation levels found in orbit. Next, the group will test switching speed under high thermal load. They plan to integrate the switch with prototype electronics. Faster ion motion and alternative intercalants could boost performance further. By directly linking electrical signals to heat transport, this work lays the groundwork for programmable thermal management in aerospace, electronics cooling and adaptive insulation. More information: Pietro Steiner et al, Electrically controlled heat transport in graphite films via reversible ionic liquid intercalation, Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adw8588 Journal information: Science Advances This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: E-commerce platform Temu has 93.7 million average monthly active users in the European Union. The European Union accused Chinese-founded online shopping giant Temu on Monday of breaking the bloc's digital rules by not "properly" assessing the risks of illegal products. EU regulators believe Temu is not doing enough to protect European consumers from dangerous products and that it may not be acting sufficiently to mitigate risks to users. "Evidence showed that there is a high risk for consumers in the EU to encounter illegal products on the platform," the European Commission said in its preliminary finding. It pointed to a mystery shopping exercise that found consumers were "very likely to find non-compliant products among the offer, such as baby toys and small electronics." Temu said only it would "continue to cooperate fully with the commission." Wildly popular in the European Union despite only having entered the continent's market in 2023, Temu has 93.7 million average monthly active users in the 27-country bloc. The EU said Temu's October 2024 risk assessment was "inaccurate and relying on general industry information rather than on specific details about its own marketplace." Temu is under investigation as part of a mammoth law known as the Digital Services Act (DSA) that forces the world's largest tech firms to do more to protect European consumers online and better police content online. Temu will now be able to respond to the EU regulators' findings and defend itself, but there is no time limit on how long an investigation may last. If confirmed to be in breach, the EU can slap a fine on Temu. Fines under the DSA can go as high as six percent of a company's total worldwide annual turnover and force it to make changes to address violations. Launched in October, the EU probe continues to investigate other suspected breaches including the use of addictive design features that could hurt users' physical and mental well-being and how Temu's systems recommend content and products. EU law under attack The DSA is part of the EU's reinforced legal weaponry to curb the excesses of Big Tech, with stricter rules for the world's biggest platforms. It has faced criticism from the US administration under President Donald Trump. The Republican-dominated judiciary committee of the US House of Representatives described the DSA in a scathing report as a "foreign censorship threat" on Friday. Staunch President Donald Trump ally Jim Jordan, committee chair, met EU tech sovereignty chief Henna Virkkunen in Brussels as part of a bipartisan delegation on Monday. "We had a constructive discussion on how to promote digital innovation, AI and regulate this field smartly," she said on X after the meeting. There are currently other DSA probes into Chinese online retailer AliExpress, social media platforms Facebook and Instagram and X as well as TikTok. The EU also wants to crack down on cheap packages that flood into the bloc each year, with a proposal under discussion for a two-euro flat fee per parcel. Last year, 4.6 billion such packages entered the EUmore than 145 per secondwith 91% originating in China. The EU expects the numbers to increase. 2025 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Calculation of incident radiation on a roof of Vitoria/Gasteiz. Credit: Building and Environment (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2025.113178 Researchers at the University of the Basque Country (EHU) have explored how a combination of photovoltaic energy and heat pumps could be used to carry out the energy retrofitting of social rental housing. Published in Building and Environment, the Basque Government's Zero Plan was used as the basis, and the technologies that the European Union is keen to promote were assessed. The buildings in Araba-Alava were generally found to offer the greatest potential for implementing the system. Buildings account for 40% of total energy consumption. Under current European legislation relating to construction, retrofitting work based on renewable energies needs to be carried out to achieve energy and climate goals. The public rental housing stock in the Basque Autonomous Community has more than 7,600 homes. The landlord profile varies and changes, and specifying the energy needs of this type of housing poses a major challenge since the profile of use is very different compared with private housing. So it is often difficult to specify and carry out the energy retrofitting of buildings. That is why it is important to specify the most viable actions. Right now, the order for retrofitting buildings is prioritized according to their age and architectural features. For energy retrofitting, the ENEDI research group of the University of the Basque Country (EHU) explored the possibility of implementing hybrid systems in social rental buildings in the Basque Autonomous Community. So in an innovative study, the potential of hybrid systems comprising photovoltaic technology and heat pumps in 128 public rental buildings in the Basque Country was explored and priorities established for retrofitting the buildings. That makes it easier to select the most suitable buildings for installing these technologies. In these hybrid systems, "electricity produced by rooftop photovoltaic panels is used to power heat pumps. By using the heat from the air, and by means of a thermodynamic refrigeration cycle, heat pumps transfer heat to the radiators," explained the ENEDI researcher Mikel Garro. The aim is to centralize the thermal demand of public rental buildings and distribute it from the heat pump to the whole building. In Garro's opinion, aerothermal heat pumps are ideal for this. The most suitable buildings are located in Araba-Alava To rank the buildings, they took into account their useful rooftop surface for obtaining solar energy, and the heating and electricity consumption of each building with great precision. Furthermore, to select the heat pumps, the structure of the building, its thermal needs and its location were taken into consideration. The Zero Plan drawn up by the Basque Government was used to obtain extensive data on the buildings, and assistance was provided by staff at the Building Quality Control Laboratory. This research not only gives a detailed view of each building, but also provides an overview of the three provinces in the Basque Autonomous Community. Garro says, "In Araba-Alava, the buildings tend to be lower, they are not that high. The capacity for obtaining solar energy on their rooftops is higher due to higher radiation values, which results in higher photovoltaic production. What is more, since most buildings are lower, the total thermal demand also tends to be lower. So the hybridization we have studied is highly suited to social rental housing of this type from the perspective of energy retrofitting." Research has shown that buildings with the largest usable floor area do not always need to be the first to be retrofitted, as the use of housing is an important factor when setting priorities. In this research, "we assessed the heating system of buildings, but not the system to produce domestic hot water," said Garro. "Despite bearing in mind the most significant data in this work, we are now creating a model to factor in more variables." The indicators for ranking retrofitting show which type of building is suited to this hybridization and "this methodology can also be used elsewhere." The indicators use hourly values of solar radiation and energy demand, which provides this methodology with seasonal and hourly precision. This research is part of the Ph.D. thesis by the engineer Mikel Garro-Aguilar under the supervision of Ana Picallo-Perez, lecturer at the EHU, and Luis Maria Lopez-Gonzalez, lecturer at the University of La Rioja. The ENEDI group belongs to the EHU's Department of Energy Engineering. More information: Mikel Garro-Aguilar et al, Mapping the hybrid technology potential: The case study of photovoltaic/heat-pump hybrid system in public rental housing in the Basque Country, Building and Environment (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2025.113178 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The researchers want to continue working on making their system even more efficient. They would like to collaborate with companies in different countries to use it. "This would allow us to secure the e-voting systems of the future, even against quantum computers," Tjerand Silde said. Credit: IBM A new electronic voting system developed at NTNU can withstand attacks from quantum computers, meaning digital elections can be conducted securely, even in the future. Norway's national elections are approaching, and most Norwegians will probably have to visit the polling stations again this year in order to cast their votes. The reason for this is that despite Norway wanting to become the most digital country in the world, it is still far from conducting fully digital elections. However, new cryptographic techniques will provide enough security to enable electronic elections to be held in the future. If politicians support online electronic voting, NTNU will be able to provide help. "We have developed a quantum-resistant electronic voting system," said Tjerand Silde, an associate professor at NTNU's Department of Information Security and Communication Technology. The new system ensures that voting with a keystroke remains just as secret, reliable and secure as pen and paper. Secure, efficient, electronic He and his colleagues have designed a system that can replace the current technology used to keep voting information secret. The researchers have proven that the system is secure even against the super-fast quantum computers that are likely just around the corner. In theory, these computers will be able to crack current cryptography, allowing information about who voted for what to be misused in the future. Replacing the current systems is a big job. "But now that process can actually begin, based on our contributions. It is possible to build a new system that ensures we can also vote electronically in a secure way in the future," Silde said. The article "More Efficient Lattice-Based Electronic Voting from NTRU" was published in IACR Communications in Cryptology. Threats from quantum computers Switzerland, Estonia, France and Australia have already introduced digital elections. Silde says these countries have robust systems that ensure votes cannot be traced back to individual voters. These countries are taking concrete steps to preserve trust, with systems in motion to ensure that everything works as it should and to guarantee that the results are accurate. The big challenge, however, is quantum computers, which pose a serious threat to digital elections. "In a few years, everyone will have to switch to quantum-resistant cryptography. Our research lays the foundation for enabling e-voting in the future. Our system is secure, although it is less efficient than the current systems. But the conventional systems will be insecure in the future anyway," said Silde. Huge advantagesand disadvantages Companies like IBM, Google and Microsoft are developing quantum computers, and OsloMet already has two of them (in Norwegian). These types of computers can solve specific mathematical problems in a very short time. This new technology has the potential to change the world, but it comes with security challenges, and many people are working hard to solve them. The Norwegian National Security Authority believes there is more than a 50% chance that computers capable of cracking current encryption systems will exist in just 1015 years. Governments and criminals are preparing "This means we need to replace today's systems with new cryptography. It must have the same properties, but also protect against new attacks. The danger is that if the encrypted votes are stored today, it may be possible to decrypt them in the future. Both cybercriminals and state actors are already preparing for this development by storing encrypted data traffic that they expect to be able to decrypt in the future." In addition, if a large quantum computer is available when an election takes place, an attacker could tamper with the results to influence the outcome. Solving major challenges The researchers at NTNU's Department of Information Security and Communication Technology believe their system resolves some major challenges: It can confirm that only people with the right to vote cast their vote It ensures that cast votes cannot be linked to the voters' identities It ensures that the votes can be counted and checked and that the result is correct Electronically mixed votes All of this is done using an electronic mixer. "It mixes the votes so they can't be traced back to the person who cast them. At the same time, we make sure that the mixer does not replace the votes with other information. We have designed a system that makes it possible to verify and prove that everything was done properly," Silde said. The result is that electronic elections can be conducted in the same way as today, and without anyone with a quantum computer being able to crack the encryption and learn anything about the votes beyond the actual election result. "The system can still be improved, but we are the first to show that this is possible and that it is effective enough to be implemented," Silde said. Is paper still safest? E-elections have already been carried out in Norway, both in church elections and in referendums where residents advised politicians on the merging of counties and municipalities, for example. In 2011 and 2013, pilot projects were conducted in some municipalities and counties where electronic voting was included in the official election. However, the politicians decided not to continue investing in this form of voting. In 2024, a group of experts was asked to assess the impact of AI on ensuring trust in continued democratic elections in Norway. One recommendation among many was to keep paper ballots (in Norwegian) to ensure they can be verified. Increased participation and cost savings Both Switzerland and Estonia have reported increased voter turnout and cost savings by conducting purely electronic elections. But Silde says there's more to be done before electronic voting comes to Norway. "This depends on whether the system can be trusted or not. There tends to be a focus on the disadvantages when choosing not to use electronic voting systems. It is natural that we, as one of the world's most digital societies, consider whether this will be beneficial for us in the future," said Silde. Fully digital elections in Norway are unlikely Once the system is up and running, conducting an e-election is both cheaper and less challenging. And when it becomes easier to vote, it becomes easier to participate in democratic processes. In addition, votes can be counted faster and more easily than today. However, the computer expert does not envision Norway switching to fully digital elections. "Digital voting will be an addition to paper-based voting that can make it cheaper and easier to engage various groups in society," he said. More information: Patrick Hough et al, More Efficient Lattice-Based Electronic Voting from NTRU, IACR Communications in Cryptology (2025). DOI: 10.62056/a69qudhdj CHICAGO, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A team of former ServiceNow leaders, (Kara (Donato) Anderson, Abhishek Bajpai and Chirag Jindal) have announced the launch of Plutus, a bold new entrant into the ServiceNow partner ecosystem focused on delivering Agentic AI solutions tailored for the insurance industry. The startup has secured pre-seed funding from Moneta Ventures, underscoring strong investor confidence in its vision to transform insurance carriers and brokers using ServiceNow. Meet the cofounders of Plutus (L-R): Kara Anderson, COO; Chirag Jindal, CEO; Abhishek Bajpai, CTO. "In my role as a Product and GTM leader at ServiceNow, I had the privilege to engage with Insurance leaders globally, and it was clear to me that the marketplace demands both purpose-built, packaged solutions to accelerate time to value and the experienced talent to deliver these solutions," said Chirag Jindal, CEO and Founder of Plutus. "Hearing first-hand how customers are overwhelmed with 'AI noise', we developed a methodology for incremental consumption of AI that utilizes our large-scale transformation backgrounds, relentless focus on change management and adoption, and experienced technical talent," adds Jindal. Lokesh Sikaria, Founder and Managing Partner at Moneta Ventures, added, "The ServiceNow platform is rapidly expanding, and we believe the ServiceNow portfolio still has great untapped potential that is ripe for disruption. This founding team has the right ingredients to win in the ServiceNow ecosystem with a laser focus on industry-specific innovation." ServiceNow recently announced its vision to be the leader in CRM, and Plutus aims to be the leader in not only furthering that vision but also advising carriers and brokers on how to consume innovations across the entire ServiceNow platform. Plutus aspires to: Be the global partner of choice for carriers and brokers modernizing on ServiceNow Build intelligent, AI-native digital agents to enable claims and servicing journeys Deliver pre-configured solutions across the insurance value chain for P&C, L&A and brokers With offices in Chicago, London, and Bengaluru, and committed enterprise contracts, Plutus is just getting started on its mission to redefine how carriers, agents/brokers, TPAs and more unlock value through the ServiceNow platform. Media Contact Kaeli Krause [email protected] (630) 945-7946 SOURCE Plutus Technology Solutions Inc. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A Waymo vehicle drives in San Francisco, Thursday, July 3, 2025. Credit: AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File Robotaxi pioneer Waymo has added Dallas to its expanding list of cities where people will be able to request a driverless ride beginning sometime next year in attempt to further distance itself from rivals still scrambling to catch up in the autonomous race. Dallas will become the second major Texas city where Waymo's robotaxis, following the company's move into Austin earlier this year as part of a partnership with ride-hailing leader Uber. Unlike the Austin driverless rides that must be ordered through Uber's app, Waymo will deploy its Dallas robotaxis through its own service and team up with the Avis Budget Group to manage its fleet there. Waymo hasn't set an exact date in 2026 for when its robotaxis will begin cruising through Dallas, which joins Washington D.C. and Miami as cities where the company plans to expand next year. Waymo's robotaxis have already provided more than 250,000 trips in Austin and several other major U.S. cities, including Phoenix, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. As the company continues to expand into new cities, it is pulling even further ahead from the rest of the pack trying to launch driverless ride-hailing services. The aspiring rivals include Tesla, which launched a limited robotaxi service in Austin last month as a prelude to what CEO Elon Musk has repeatedly promised will be a nationwide fleet of driverless cars, even as the automaker faces legal challenges questioning the capability of its autonomous technology. Amazon is also aiming to roll out robotaxis in Las Vegas late this year as part of its Zoox self-driving division. And Uber and Lyft have been relying on a variety of partnerships to supplement their fleet of human-driven vehicles with more driverless options. While others are still trying to get their robotaxis out of the starting blocks, it has been nearly five years since Waymo's driverless ride-hailing service made its debut in Phoenix with a technology that began as a secret project within Google in 2009. Waymo spun out from Google in 2016, but the two companies remain tethered under the same corporate parent, Alphabet Inc. Waymo is still testing the possibility of bringing its robotaxis to at least two other Texas citiesHouston and San Antoniowhile also exploring a potential expansion in San Diego, Boston and New York. It is also eyeing Tokyo as its first robotaxi market outside the U.S. 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The Mount Vesuvius artwork erupts into life thanks to modern technology and two University of Melbourne engineering students. Credit: University of Melbourne A mechanical artwork designed in 1775 to depict the eruption of Italy's Mount Vesuvius has been brought to life for the first time250 years after it was conceivedthanks to modern technology and the ingenuity of two University of Melbourne engineering students. The original concept, designed by Sir William Hamilton, British ambassador to Naples and Sicily from 1765 to 1800 and a passionate volcanologist, combined art and engineering to simulate the visual drama of volcanic activity. Based on a 1771 watercolor "Night view of a current of lava" by British-Italian artist Pietro Fabris, the device uses light and motion to animate the lava flows and explosions of Vesuvius. While it's unclear whether the mechanism was ever built in Hamilton's time, a detailed sketch preserved in the Bordeaux Municipal Library provided the blueprint for its modern reconstruction. Dr. Richard Gillespie, Senior Curator in the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, initiated the project and supervised its development. "It is fitting that after 250 years exactly, our students have brought this dormant project to life," he said. "It is a wonderful piece of science communication. People around the world have always been fascinated by the immense power of volcanoes." Master of Mechatronics student Xinyu (Jasmine) Xu and Master of Mechanical Engineering student Yuji (Andy) Zeng spent three months building the device in The Creator Space student workshop. Using modern materials and technologiesincluding laser-cut timber and acrylic, programmable LED lighting, and electronic control systemsthey reimagined Hamilton's clockwork-driven design for a contemporary audience. "The project offered a wealth of learning opportunities. I've extended many skills, including programming, soldering and physics applications," Ms. Xu said. Mr. Zeng said the project provided a new perspective on mechanical engineering applications. "It was a fantastic way to build my hands-on problem-solving skills," he said. "We still faced some of the challenges that Hamilton faced. The light had to be designed and balanced so the mechanisms were hidden from view." Research engineer Mr. Andrew Kogios, who supervised the students, said their enthusiasm and perseverance led to enormous skill development. "From selecting materials and 3D printing, to troubleshooting electronics and satisfying requirements, working collaboratively with Yuji and Xinyu has been extremely rewarding," Mr. Kogios said. "Experiences like these, supplementing their university studies, position them well for their future endeavors." The device is the centerpiece of The Grand Tour, a new exhibition in the University's Baillieu Library, which runs until 28 June 2026. Blog Archive: Aug 2025 (130) Jul 2025 (155) Jun 2025 (150) May 2025 (155) Apr 2025 (9) Mar 2025 (149) Feb 2025 (139) Jan 2025 (155) Dec 2024 (144) Nov 2024 (143) Oct 2024 (155) Sep 2024 (149) Aug 2024 (155) Jul 2024 (155) Jun 2024 (150) May 2024 (153) Apr 2024 (149) Mar 2024 (155) Feb 2024 (145) Jan 2024 (155) Dec 2023 (155) Nov 2023 (150) Oct 2023 (155) Sep 2023 (150) Aug 2023 (155) Jul 2023 (155) Jun 2023 (150) May 2023 (155) Apr 2023 (150) Mar 2023 (155) Feb 2023 (140) Jan 2023 (155) Dec 2022 (156) Nov 2022 (150) Oct 2022 (155) Sep 2022 (150) Aug 2022 (155) Jul 2022 (154) Jun 2022 (150) May 2022 (155) Apr 2022 (150) Mar 2022 (155) Feb 2022 (140) Jan 2022 (156) Dec 2021 (156) Nov 2021 (150) Oct 2021 (155) Sep 2021 (150) Aug 2021 (155) Jul 2021 (155) Jun 2021 (150) May 2021 (155) Apr 2021 (150) Mar 2021 (155) Feb 2021 (140) Jan 2021 (155) Dec 2020 (155) Nov 2020 (150) Oct 2020 (158) Sep 2020 (150) Aug 2020 (130) Jul 2020 (124) Jun 2020 (120) May 2020 (124) Apr 2020 (120) Mar 2020 (124) Feb 2020 (116) Jan 2020 (125) Dec 2019 (126) Nov 2019 (120) Oct 2019 (124) Sep 2019 (120) Aug 2019 (125) Jul 2019 (124) Jun 2019 (120) May 2019 (123) Apr 2019 (121) Mar 2019 (124) Feb 2019 (112) Jan 2019 (125) Dec 2018 (126) Nov 2018 (120) Oct 2018 (124) Sep 2018 (121) Aug 2018 (124) Jul 2018 (125) Jun 2018 (120) May 2018 (124) Apr 2018 (121) Mar 2018 (124) Feb 2018 (112) Jan 2018 (123) Dec 2017 (124) Nov 2017 (124) Oct 2017 (141) Sep 2017 (135) Aug 2017 (138) Jul 2017 (137) Jun 2017 (134) May 2017 (138) Apr 2017 (135) Mar 2017 (139) Feb 2017 (129) Jan 2017 (143) Dec 2016 (135) Nov 2016 (138) Oct 2016 (142) Sep 2016 (128) Aug 2016 (133) Jul 2016 (136) Jun 2016 (138) May 2016 (164) Apr 2016 (311) Mar 2016 (348) Feb 2016 (320) Jan 2016 (348) Dec 2015 (314) Nov 2015 (338) Oct 2015 (363) Sep 2015 (358) Aug 2015 (399) Jul 2015 (374) Jun 2015 (331) May 2015 (337) Apr 2015 (319) Mar 2015 (320) Feb 2015 (271) Jan 2015 (286) Dec 2014 (254) Nov 2014 (238) Oct 2014 (287) Sep 2014 (267) Aug 2014 (259) Jul 2014 (260) Jun 2014 (238) May 2014 (241) Apr 2014 (228) Mar 2014 (240) Feb 2014 (217) Jan 2014 (263) Dec 2013 (226) Nov 2013 (254) Oct 2013 (256) Sep 2013 (252) Aug 2013 (263) Jul 2013 (261) Jun 2013 (251) May 2013 (250) Apr 2013 (221) Mar 2013 (193) Feb 2013 (164) Jan 2013 (157) Dec 2012 (155) Nov 2012 (240) Oct 2012 (526) Sep 2012 (411) Aug 2012 (394) Jul 2012 (284) Jun 2012 (229) May 2012 (213) Apr 2012 (213) Mar 2012 (253) Feb 2012 (269) Jan 2012 (298) Dec 2011 (273) Nov 2011 (219) Oct 2011 (204) Sep 2011 (201) Aug 2011 (236) Jul 2011 (217) Jun 2011 (211) May 2011 (206) Apr 2011 (215) Mar 2011 (215) Feb 2011 (186) Jan 2011 (215) Dec 2010 (107) Nov 2010 (98) Oct 2010 (55) You have reached a premium content area of Transitions. To read this entire article please login if you are already a Transitions subscriber. Not a subscriber? Subscribe today for access to: Full access to the website, including premium articles videos, country reports and searchable archives (containing over 25,000 articles). SIXTY-YEAR-OLD David Greeves died after he attempted to save his home which caught fire whil First Citizens bank is perhaps the greatest comeback story in Trinidad and Tobagos financial history, and certainly among its major public relations triumphs. Created in 1993 from the collapse of three institutionsthe National Commercial Bank (NCB), the Workers Bank, and the Trinidad Cooperative Bank (TCB)FCB was able to win public confidence and perform well over the ensuing 31 years. In its 2024 annual report, Group CEO Karen Darbasie noted First Citizens had copped the number one spot for Best Performing Bank in Trinidad and Tobago in The Banker Top 30 Caribbean Banks of 2024 ranking. Now, however, the UNC administrations ham-fisted handling of Darbasies pending departure threatens to undermine public trust in the bank. The Government thus needs to explain quickly, clearly, and thoroughly what has triggered the move to have her relieved of her position. Missouri-based Bass Pro Shops plans to build a 100,000-square-foot destination retail store at The Bridges development on Tucsons south side, its first in the area and third in Arizona. Plans for the new store were revealed Tuesday as the Tucson City Council unanimously approved sales-tax incentives worth an estimated $1.4 million for the new store. Details about groundbreaking for the new store, which is to be built on an undeveloped site at The Bridges, and its target opening date, were not immediately available. Bass Pro Shops issued a news release announcing plans for the new store but did not include the timing of the project and did not respond to a request for details. Bass Pro Shops is known for its massive Outdoor World stores, which combine a large selection of goods with features such as target ranges, fish tanks, restaurants and video arcades to create an immersive retail experience. The company plans to spend $35.8 million to build the new store on roughly 13 acres at The Bridges, a 350-acre master-planned community adjacent to Interstate 10, between South Park Ave. and South Kino Parkway. The retailer will employ about 128 workers in full- and part-time positions, according to a memo to the city council by City Manager Michael Ortega. Ortega told the council that the economic impact of the new store will far outweigh the city sales-tax break. The proposed incentive is a reimbursement, for qualifying expenses, of up to 45% of the 2% unrestricted city sales taxes, excluding construction, paid by the company over a five-year incentive term. Over five years, the project is expected to generate direct revenue to the city of $4.7 million and more than $11.8 million to other taxing districts. Ortega noted that Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World draws more than 200 million visitors annually across its locations in the U.S. and Canada, and more than half travel more than 30 miles, attracting significant numbers of out-of-town guests. The stores feature large aquariums and water features stocked with native fish species and used for live fishing demonstrations, as well as local antiques and artifacts, trophy fish and wildlife mounts, and murals depicting local scenes. Bass Pro Shops, which acquired rival Cabelas in 2017 in a deal worth about $5 billion, operates 171 stores under both brands combined across the U.S. and Canada. Home Depot southeast Do-it-yourselfers in the fast-growing area of southeast Tucson will have a shorter drive for lumber and other supplies when a new Home Depot opens on South Houghton Road near Interstate 10. Home Depot plans to build a 136,000-square-foot home improvement retail store at Houghton Town Center, located at Houghton and Old Vail Road in southeast Tucson. Details of that project also came to light Tuesday as the city council unanimously approved a sales incentive worth an estimated $2.6 million for the $40 million construction project. Over a five-year incentive term, the project is expected to generate direct revenue to the city of $8.6 million, and more than $21 million to other taxing districts, Ortega told the council in a supporting memo. The new Home Depot store will serve as an anchor tenant for Houghton Town Center and help attract additional businesses and customers to the city, Ortega said. Tucson Electric Power will likely need to build a new natural gas plant to serve the second big data center complex planned for Project Blue, a spokesman said this week. But if that does happen and TEP says it hasnt decided yet if it will serve that complex the utility will build the new gas plant outside Pima County, said Joe Salkowski, TEPs senior director for communications and public affairs. New natural gas resources would likely be needed to serve the second Project Blue complex, but its far too early to say whether that would mean one or more gas plants, he said. Asked whether Project Blue would foot the whole cost of building and operating a new plant, or whether TEP would allocate some of those costs to residential customers, Salkowski answered, TEP is willing to negotiate an energy supply agreement to serve Project Blues future phases in a way that provides sufficient protections for our company and our current customers. The details youre asking about would be subject to those negotiations and addressed in that agreement, which would be subject to review and approval by the Arizona Corporation Commission. Salkowskis comments came in the face of strongly worded concerns from a Pima County environmental official about the data center projects impacts on climate change and air quality in general. Natalie Shepp of the Pima County Department of Environmental Quality said the construction of new gas plants in the county to serve Project Blue would make it impossible for the city of Tucson and the county government to achieve their climate goals of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045 to 2050. Shepp is a climate manager and a community engagement manager for PDEQ.The burning of natural gas releases the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide into the atmosphere which is linked to the warming of the planet from climate change, but not as many greenhouse gas emissions than occur from the burning of coal. Utilities in Arizona have in recent years been turning toward building gas plants along with new solar and wind generating plants to replace coal-fired plants that are generally considered dirtier electricity overall than gas. Achieving net zero would require that all new emission sources somehow be offset, perhaps through the use of planting new trees or having more soil available to uptake any new emissions, Shepp said. Asked if the county officials concerns triggered TEPs commitment to not build new gas facilities in Pima County, Salkowski replied only, TEP considers many factors when developing new energy resources, including cost, the availability of fuel and electric grid infrastructure, environmental factors, and regulatory considerations. But Ed Hendel, a local Project Blue opponent, said that moving a gas plant to another county wouldnt make much of a difference as far as climate change is considered. The mayor of Tucson has done a fantastic job and built a legacy with the Tucson Resilient Together Climate Action Plan. If we are building non-renewable energy plants to power Project Blue, it undermines that, said Hendel. He runs a local business, Sky Island AI, that has published a dashboard on Project Blue analyzing its energy and water use, based on TEP energy use data on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, information from Tucsons Project Blue website and published energy use data from other data centers nationally. Each community has their responsibility to reduce their own emissions as much as they can control. If we are creating non-renewable power plants in other places, thats just as bad as building them here from a climate change perspective, Hendel said. Pima County DEQ Director Scott DiBiase said the question of whether a gas plant would be more acceptable in another county is complicated, but for local air quality its better not to have that local generation, from an ozone generation perspective. The methane from a natural gas plant generates nitrogen oxide, a key ingredient in ozone, he said. I wouldnt say its more acceptable from a climate change perspective to have a gas plant serving Project Blue from a different county, DiBiase said. Its not as impactful from a local air quality perspective. It matters how far away it is. Right now, I dont think we have any clue as to where they are looking to put it. Project Blue officials have said they plan to build two large data center complexes in Tucson. The first, which could begin construction next year if approved by the Tucson City Council, would lie near the Pima County Fairgrounds, at the intersection of Houghton and Brekke roads on the far southeast side. The second complexs location hasnt been announced but its expected to be planned for a site near the first. Although Project Blues expected annual electricity use hasnt been disclosed, local officials have said it will be the largest electricity user in TEPs service area. A fact sheet on the project released by city of Tucson officials said the two data center projects together will require total electric generating capacity from 900 to 1,300 megawatts. TEP will have enough electrical generating capacity to serve the first data center, Salkowski said. Its scheduled to go online in 2027 and gradually ramp up to full operations by 2029. That capacity is getting a boost from four new solar and battery storage plants TEP plans to have online in Pima and Cochise counties in 2026 and 2027. One of them, the first phase of a 400-megawatt-generating battery storage project in Pima County, is already online. TEP is not yet committed to serving potential future phases of Project Blue, Salkowski said, adding, We are willing to negotiate an energy supply agreement to serve those future phases in a way that provides sufficient protections for our company and our current customers. But the utility would need to develop new generating resources to serve future phases of the data center project, he said. We would expect to develop a mix of resources that includes clean energy resources and at least some new natural gas generation, Salkowski said. Clean energy resources alone cannot cost-effectively and reliably serve the around-the-clock energy needs of a large data center. The utility anticipates choosing what kind of power sources to build through what it calls competitive all-source requests for proposals that compare the costs, benefits and performance of different resource types, he said. Thats the process it used to select the four renewable plants its building now. Projects could include conventional and renewable resources that satisfy the identified energy need. Preference can be given for technologies that achieve certain targeted objectives, including carbon emission reductions. The goal is to identify reliable, cost-effective resources that provide the greatest value to TEPs customers, Salkowski said. The countys Shepp acknowledged before Salkowski released his comments to the Star that solar and wind facilities alone wouldnt be adequate to serve a second Project Blue complex. While battery storage can give a utility some extra ability to serve customers during times when no sun or wind energy is available, many experts agree that today, its still not enough. Generally, many experts agree that solar and wind energy cant by themselves supply enough power on a 24/7 basis for large-scale energy generation because those sources drop off when the sun sets and the wind stops blowing. Battery storage of renewable energy typically lasts about four hours, which also isnt enough. While some battery storage technology can last longer, it isnt widely used. That was one reason Shepp is concerned about the possibility of a new gas plant here for Project Blue. Plus, TEPs own integrated resource plan, drawn up in 2023, calls on the utility to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions in its operations by 2050. Asked how TEP can still meet that goal if it builds new gas generating plants, Salkowski replied that its too soon to speculate about that. TEP doesnt yet have a complete picture of the energy needs that will emerge in coming years or the resource mix it will develop to serve them, he said. The utility will be developing updated forecasts for its next integrated resource plan, due out in 2026, he said. Well be looking closely at new carbon-free energy alternatives like hydrogen generation, long-term energy storage and other emerging options to complement our continuing investments in wind, solar and battery energy storage systems, supported by natural gas, he said. TEP remains committed to working toward our net zero by 2050 goal without compromising on reliability or affordability, he said. Airdate: The War Cabinet Chris Uhlmann leads a panel of former ministers, military leaders, and defence specialists on the question: "Is Australia ready for war? SKY News Political Contributor Chris Uhlmann will present a one-hour program, The War Cabinet, to investigate if Australia is ready to defend itself. Joining him are former Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer, former Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs Michael Pezzullo, former Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon, Director at Strategic Analysis Australia, Peter Jennings, defence expert Jennifer Parker, defence aviation expert Dr Oleksandra Molloy, Executive Director at CyberCX, Katherine Mansted, CEO at Strategic Forum, Dr Ross Babbage, and retired Major General, Mick Ryan. Chris Uhlmann said: The War Cabinet will return to the heart of Old Parliament House, where John Curtin and his ministers steered the nation through World War II. Today, with China rising, America shifting, and the global order fragmenting, the threat of major conflict in our region looms once again. We bring together former ministers, defence leaders, and national security experts around the Cabinet table to answer a single question: is Australia ready for war? Set in an immersive war cabinet environment, Uhlmann convenes a distinguished panel of former ministers, military leaders, and defence specialists to investigate if Australia is ready to defend itself and support our allies in a time of growing tensions in our region and across the world. The panel will explore Australias alliance with the US amid Trumps America-first approach, AUKUS uncertainty, Chinas increasing militarisation and the potential for conflict over Taiwan. The war cabinet will also examine lessons learned from the Middle East, the war in Ukraine and past conflicts, and workshop how we might respond to potential flashpoints. The experts will take a close look at our defence spending, and debate if we are spending enough, and on the right things. In todays tense defence climate, this special program is especially timely and designed to be deeply relevant to all Australians. Monday 11 August at 7.30pm AEST on SKY News. Dannii to feature in new drama, Imposter. Dannii Minogue returning to acting after three decades, alongside Jackie Woodburne in new 4 part drama. Dannii Minogue is returning to a TV acting role after a 35 year break in upcoming UK-Australian drama, Imposter. Production on the 4 part drama starring Neighbours Jackie Woodburne and Coronation Streets Kym Marsh is currently underway in Melbourne. This will mark her first TV acting role* since 1990 as Emma Jackson on Home & Away. A splashy seaside hotel becomes the centre of a bitter family dispute as matriarch Helen (Woodburne) refuses to sell, despite pressure from her three adult children. But Helen is hiding a secret: a daughter she gave up for adoption decades ago. When Amanda suddenly appears, Helen welcomes her with open arms but is Amanda who she says she is? The lucrative hotel is the ultimate prize and a twisted scheme soon spirals into betrayal and ultimately, murder. Her character will be one of the suspects in the murder, as the family all fight it out over the family empire, a Channel 5 spokesperson told The Sun. Its been decades since shes acted on the small screen and everyone at the channel is over the moon that she was able to make the dates work because she loved the script. This will likely make her the on-screen daughter of Jackie Woodburne. She currently presents the LGBT dating shows, I Kissed a Boy and I Kissed a Girl. The Fremantle series created by Jason Herbison is set to screen on Paramount-owned Channel 5 in 2026. TV Tonight understands an Australian broadcaster is set to be announced. * Minogue featured in 1992 feature film Secrets and 2004 short The Porter. It was not an easy time: Geraldine Doogue recalls 7:30 and the death of Andrew Olle Delivering the annual Andrew Olle Media Lecture, Geraldine Doogue recalls when Kerry O'Brien was chosen to replace Olle on 7:30 -and then tragedy struck. Media doyenne and Compass veteran Geraldine Doogue has delivered the annual Andrew Olle Media Lecture, opening with a personal memory of the death of colleague, Andrew Olle. My late husband Ian Carroll was technically one of his bosses (now called Leads) as Exec Producer of The 7.30 Report: and together with Television Division leaders, the decision was made back then in 1995 to refresh the whole early evening television current affairs line-up; that it would benefit from being beefed-up to a national approach (as it is now) and the decision was made to appoint the experienced Kerry OBrien in the chair, she said. It was all rather secretive, as these things tend to be, up till the point that it wasnt! And the news doesnt emergeneatly, as you know. No alternative role had yet been fully devised for Andrew on television though his 702 morning radio role would remain the same. Word got out about the changes. Then, Andrew collapsed from this tumour.and died. Obviously we all wondered whether pressure over his future had played any role and well never knowbut I dont really think Ian ever forgot that sense of responsibility for his part in the decision-making, and whether it could have been improved. There was such a lot of grief, shockand dismay, visibly conveyed. It was not an easy time cos it was all so sudden, there was such sheer sadness, at losing the fabulous, reliable generalist Andrew Olle. So as I say, Im especially delighted to be here tonight to honour his memory.and in the presence of Annette and the family. And what a year to be delivering the lecture, on media of the future! On any subject that requires good prophecy. Because NOTHING seems certain in our lives. In canvassing the state of journalism and media she also highlighted what she refers to as a clear association between the public and the media: *Podcaststhe phenomenon of our recent times: lots of ego, I can assure you, but less rules (maybe) around the conversational tone, meaning a wider exposure of the relevant people and topics, less curated than straight Radio? (which is still my first love, I want to reassure you). *Special events, like ABC Classic 100 in that first week of June-with some composer or instrument chosen as a focus, Beethoven, piano music, with the community voting on the best, always with huge take-up, of all ages and skills. you can hear it, instant market research on offer. (Tell story of Russell Torrance, on the Monday after the weekend, playing Mozart Piano Concerto No 27, which did NOT make the top 100! A Qld woman texted inI had a baby 7 hours ago, shes sleeping beside me now, with Mozart by her side. I think that might be the pinnacle of engagement between mainstream media and its audience, frankly it doesnt get much better than that.) Triple Js Hottest 100 is obviously another candidate. *Explainers I sat on the Walkley judging panel for this categorys second year in 2024 (called Explanatory Journalism); SO incredibly impressive to see this instinct among journalists. It was invariably team work, I noticed, generally involving some institutional backing, incredibly imaginative, bold, demanding, huge amounts of work often in peoples own time, driven by curiosity and, I would say, a desire to tell stories by CLARIFYING complexity-a time-honoured drive to serve! Follow-ups to natural disasters: Ive come to believe this matters a great deal. It proves that the media is genuinely curious about deeper stories, slower stories, as much as crisis-management, in the full knowledge that the way people, animals and the natural world adapt is a vital, if diffuse story. ABC News did some wonderful, repeated reporting after the last bushfires in ways that were both incredibly moving, deeply informative and genuinely fresh. She added, Media literacy is apparently becoming a massive thing in the Asian regionwith some quite fascinating projects, like one in Nepal, called Hello CIN (Community Information Network ), combining radio, talkback and citizen-driven solutions journalism: people voice-record questions often about local governance or education issues.then its played to the relevant govt official, who responds directly, all on air: an average of 15,000 questions, complaints and issues are resolved, publicly, via this platform each year. And its widely appreciated. Now, I can hear some of you thinking.does she really think these compete with some fabulous scoop? No, I love those big-beast stories of course I do: who doesnt, and weve certainly experienced a few in these past two years. But my tastes wont deliver an industry of scale in the future, sadly. You can read her full lecture here. Mary Kostakidis in anti-semitism case Social media posts by former SBS presenter have led to legal case over free speech vs hate speech. A legal row between a former SBS television newsreader and a prominent Israeli Australian over tweets during the IsraelGaza war has been described by one camp as a case of free speech, and the other as a case of hate speech. Mary Kostakidis is facing racial discrimination legal battle following posts on the IsraelGaza war shared on social media platform X. Kostakidis was the face of SBS over two decades, including as SBS World News anchor, departing in 2007. Alon Cassuto, chief executive of the Zionist Federation of Australia, alleged that posts, on January 4 and 13, 2024, featured comments from Hassan Nasrallah the now deceased leader of Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group designated by the Australian, the US, the UK and other governments as a terrorist organisation breached the Racial Discrimination Act. According to Mr Cassutos application, the posts were in breach of the act because they were reasonably likely in all the circumstances to offend, insult, humiliate and / or intimidate Australian Jews and / or Israelis in Australia. The application noted the lawsuit was launched because, after a complaint was made to the Australian Human Rights Commission, the commission subsequently determined there was no reasonable prospect of the matter being settled by conciliation. Screenshots contained in the statement of claim show the posts in question, including one from January 4 where Ms Kostakidis added comments while reposting another tweet. That post featured a video of Nasrallah, and a caption reporting that the Hezbollah leader had told the Israelis they will never be welcome in the region. Ms Kostakidis legal team including Stephen Keim SC applied to have extensive elements of the case struck out, describing the posts as falling within the bounds of journalism. We argue that the reporting of statements by a well-known spokesperson for a party in a major regional conflict is an essential part of news reporting, Mr Keim said. This may involve reporting offensive statements, for example the widely-reported Access Hollywood tape of the current president of the United States, but no ordinary and reasonable person would be offended by such news reports. The speech reported in the subject posts were widely regarded as newsworthy and in reporting the speech, the respondent was acting in accord with orthodox judgements and actions concerning publication. Outside court on Tuesday, Mr Cassuto said the case is not about free speech, it is about hate speech. Source: ABC US blocks Taiwanese Presidents New York stop after Chinas objections - Reports Washington, July 29 (UNI) The administration of US President Donald Trump barred Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te from stopping in New York during his planned August visit to Paraguay, Guatemala and Belize over Chinas objections, the Financial Times newspaper reported on Monday, citing three sources. Lais office said he had no immediate plans for overseas travel due to typhoon relief efforts and trade talks with Washington, though the sources reportedly indicated that the decision followed a US refusal to allow a New York stop. The report said that Lai had intended to stop in Dallas, but it remains unclear whether the US blocked only the New York visit or barred his transit through the country entirely. SC ICFAs Dan Walters, SC State President Alexander Conyers, BECT Executive Director Barbara Adams, SC ICFAs Joe Schuebert and the Campbell Consulting Groups Brian Butler. The late state Sen. John L. Scott Jr. ORANGEBURG, S.C. The South Carolina Independent Consumer Finance Association (SC ICFA) has donated $11,000 to South Carolina State University to support scholarships, honoring the legacy of the late state Sen. John L. Scott Jr. The renewed gift continues the John L. Scott Scholarship Fund, which benefits students through the universitys BECT Institute. The contribution reflects Scotts lifelong commitment to educational equity, economic advancement, and support for historically Black colleges and universities. The SC ICFA donated $10,000 to the fund in 2024. Scott, a 1975 SC State alumnus with a degree in accounting, served in the South Carolina General Assembly for more than three decades until his unexpected death in 2023. He played a key role in creating the BECT Institute (Business, Environment, Communications and Transportation) at SC State and remained a tireless champion for HBCUs throughout his career. Through this named scholarship fund, we hope to expand financial literacy throughout the state of South Carolina, said Dan Walters, CEO of Credit Central LLC and past president of SC ICFA. Dr. Barbara Adams, executive director of the BECT Institute, called the scholarship a meaningful tribute to a man whose life was defined by service, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to education. This scholarship not only preserves his legacy but alsoq ensures that future generations of students, particularly those from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds, have the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams, Adams said. We are very thankful to Dan Walters, Joe Schuebert (vice president of government and regulatory affairs for 1st Franklin Financial) and other members of the SC Independent Consumer Finance Association for supporting this initiative and encourage others to join them in honoring Senator Scotts legacy by investing in the future of SC State students. The scholarship and financial literacy initiatives reflect a shared commitment between SC State and the SC ICFA to address economic challenges in underserved areas, an issue Senator Scott championed throughout his career. Walters emphasized that the associations partnership with the university stems directly from Scotts priorities and vision. Sen. Scott had real concerns about the economic and financial health of South Carolina's rural communities. Especially the approximately 22 rural communities in this state that had declined in population of both residents and businesses while the state overall had substantially grown. It is for these common concerns that the SC ICFA partnered with South Carolina State University and has worked closely with Dr. Barbara Adams to promote financial literacy, Walters said. The associations broader partnership with SC State includes the Money Skills financial tutorial, an online platform sponsored by the American Financial Services Association. The program features 37 interactive modules covering personal finance, credit, insurance, retirement planning, estate preparation and more. All incoming freshmen in SC States College of Business and Information Systems are granted access to the platform. These initiatives came by the direction of the late Senator Scott, whose leadership has inspired our efforts to educate and empower young minds across the state, Walters said. The association has also created internship opportunities for selected SC State business students. Walters noted the importance of building on the momentum created by the fund. While the SC ICFA is committed to funding these scholarships annually at the present level of $10k, it is our hope to expand opportunities to contribute well beyond our own membership, Walters said. SC State President Alexander Conyers said the scholarship represents the kind of legacy the university is proud to carry forward. Senator Scott was a loyal son of South Carolina State University whose leadership always reflected a deep belief in the power of education to uplift communities, Conyers said. This scholarship will continue his lifes work by helping our students gain not only knowledge, but the financial skills and opportunities to thrive beyond the classroom. For more information about the BECT Institute, visit www.scsu.edu/bect . Reach Dr. Barbara Adams at badams@scsu.edu or 803-516-4864. July 29, 2025: Ukraine is planning its post-war future. Russian leader Vladimir is still defiantly determined to continue his war in Ukraine, but even he admits that the Russian economy is in bad shape and getting worse. A defiantly paranoid Putin has been increasing his personal security as he sees more of his senior generals die in explosions and whatever other fatal accidents the Ukrainians can come up with. Putin knows he will probably not survive defeat in Ukraine. He described his Special Military Operation in Ukraine as necessary to keep NATO from encircling and destroying Russia. His resistance backfired, with neutral neighbors Sweden and Finland joining NATO and joining other NATO nations in upgrading and expanding their armed forces. Ukraine is now seen as a valuable ally to NATO and will probably join it eventually. Putin insists this will never happen while his plans for reviving the Soviet Union are fading fast. Russian military performance in the Ukraine War has been an epic failure. By early 2025 Russia has lost over a million men dead, wounded, deserted and millions more fleeing the country to avoid military service. Ukraine is already making more economic and military deals with NATO countries. The United States was especially eager to learn the details of how Ukraine did it and obtain technical details on drone development, production and use. Earlier this year Ukraine created a new branch of their military, the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle/ Drone Force. This is in addition to the Ukrainian Air Force that consists of manned aircraft. The Drone Force does not control the drones Ukrainian forces use regularly and instead develops new drone models and organizes mass production for those new models that are successful. Drones have been an unexpected development that had a huge impact on how battles in Ukraine's current war were fought. Drones were successful because they were cheap, easily modified, and expendable. Both Russian and Ukrainian forces were soon using cheap, at about $500 each, quadcopter drones controlled by soldiers a kilometer or more away using First Person Viewing/FPV goggles to see what the video camera on the drone can see. Adding night vision at least doubles the cost for each drone, so not all of them have that capability. Each of these drones carries half a kilogram of explosives, so it can instantly turn the drone into a flying bomb that can fly into a target and detonate. This is an awesome and debilitating weapon when used in large numbers over the combat zone. If a target isnt moving or requires more explosive power that the drones can supply, one of the drone operators can call in artillery, rocket, or missile fire, or even an airstrike. Larger, fixed wing drones are used for long range, often over a thousand kilometers, operations against targets deep inside Russia. Drones are difficult to shoot down and are most at risk to electronic warfare and jamming. Drone guidance systems were quickly modified to deal with that threat. Most drones are able to complete their mission, whether it is a one-way attack or a reconnaissance and surveillance mission. The recon missions are usually survivable and enable the drone to be reused. All these drones are constantly performing surveillance, which means that both sides commit enough drones to maintain constant surveillance over a portion of the front line, to a depth, into enemy territory, of at least a few kilometers. This massive use of FPV-armed drones has revolutionized warfare in Ukraine and both sides are producing as many as they can. Earlier in the Ukraine War Russia used Iranian Shahed-136 drones that Iran sold for about $200,000 each. Ukraine demonstrated that you could design and build drones with similar capabilities at less than a tenth of what the Shahed-136. The Iranian drone was more complex than it needed to be and even the Russians soon realized this and turned from the Shahed-136 for more capable drones they copied from Ukrainian designs or ones Russians designed. Ukrainian drone proliferation began when many individual Ukrainians or small teams designed and built drones. The drones served as potential candidates for widespread use and mass production. This proliferation of designers and manufacturers led to rapid evolution of drone capabilities and uses. Those who could not keep up were less successful in combat and suffered higher losses. One countermeasure that can work for a while is electronic jamming of the drones control signals. Drone guidance systems are constantly modified or upgraded to cope with this. Most drones have flight control software that sends drones with jammed control signals back to where they took off from to land for later use. The jammers are on the ground and can be attacked by drones programmed to home in on the jamming signal. Countermeasures can be overcome and the side that can do this more quickly and completely has an advantage. That advantage is usually temporary because both sides are putting a lot of effort into keeping their combat drones effective on the battlefield. Military leaders in other nations have noted this and are scrambling to equip their own forces with the most effective drones. Not having enough of these to match the number the enemy has in a portion of the front means you are at a serious disadvantage in that area. These drones are still evolving in terms of design and use and becoming more effective and essential. Ukraine has offered to assist its allies to adapt to the revolutionary new drone warfare. Ukrainian drone developers, manufacturers and users are already in big demand by NATO countries to advise them on how to join the drone revolution. While the Ukrainian does this largely cost free to NATO nations that supplied weapons and economic aid throughout the war, anyone else pays a fee. Russia is providing similar services for China, North Korea, Iran and anyone else that can afford it. Drones have been a surprise to American air power advocates. Despite being a successful high-tech operation, American air forces, especially the Navy and USAF, frequently have trouble adjusting to changes they do not agree with. When the Cold War ended in 1991 the air force was still largely thinking about continuing to operate as they had done in the Cold War, but the technology and tactics of warfare were changing. The post-Cold War enemy no longer consisted of large organized forces spread over huge areas. The enemy was increasingly irregulars who were harder to spot from the air. The air force reluctantly adapted, in part because the army and CIA adopted new reconnaissance and surveillance techniques like drones and persistent surveillance. Now the air force is turning its attention to a near-peer opponent in the form of a rapidly expanding and modernizing China's military. Unexpectedly the Ukraine War emerged first with Russia and Ukraine fighting each other. Ukrainians had the advantage of material and After a century of trying, the ground forces and non-aviation naval forces still cannot get the people up there to come down and get a much needed reality check on what is happening down below where battles and wars are still decided. Meanwhile the proliferation of surveillance and armed drones have in many cases replaced conventional air forces, at least for operations close to the ground and requiring more urgency to find and attack targets. As American aviation experts are schooled on how Ukraine and Russia developed the revolutionary drone war concepts, they will have tough decisions to make. There is still much for conventional air power to do. Israeli warplanes and some American B2 bombers recently demonstrated that in Iran. Israeli and NATO air forces are already investigating how the Iran attack might have been conducted by aircraft carrying thousands of drones. The drones are here, they are not going away for a while, and everyone has to learn how to adapt or perish. For free or for a fee, Ukraine will explain how that works in practical terms what was learned during the first Drone War. July 29, 2025: South Korea has 23 Air Independent Propulsion/AIP submarines while North Korea maintains a similar number of older subs. North Korea is building a nuclear powered SSBN, such a boat would carry up to a dozen ballistic missiles and theoretically threaten the western United States. Meanwhile, South Korea and the Japanese continue to expand and improve their submarine forces. Since 1980 Japan has produced two submarines a year, with interruptions in 1996 and 2014 because of natural disasters. Japan also installs new technology, like AIP, lithium batteries and eventually pump jet propulsion, to older subs as well as new ones. Another characteristic of Japanese submarine use is keeping subs in service for only half the 40 year service life they were designed for. This is done to eliminate the need for a mid-life update and upgrade programs. After 20 years, subs are relegated to training boats or exported. Some of these subs are retained by Japan as a reserve for the Japanese navy or unexpected export opportunities. Japanese submarine exports are popular with customers because of the high quality, relatively low prices, quick delivery and assurance that these boats work because the Japanese have built and already used some of them. South Korea concentrates on improving its land forces; it also maintains a growing fleet of attack and missile launching submarines. The first South Korean subs were midget subs that entered service in the 1980s and were used for infiltrating agents into North Korea and coastal operations in general. In 2017 South Korea began producing German designed Type 214 AIP boats. These boats were well known for their quality and capabilities. South Korea eliminated having to develop its own designs and spend decades refining their submarine technology. After the German boats, South Korea began designing, developing and building their own submarines. This led to a planned fleet of 27 subs, comprising three classes. Currently 22 of those subs are in service and the rest will arrive by 2027. The South Korean submarine program provides a formidable deterrent to any North Korean or Chinese submarine threats. The North Korean threat is real and South Korea responded with several new developments. Four years ago South Korea test fired a new ballistic missile, one that was launched from the first of nine new 3,400-ton KSS-3 class submarines. The first KSS-3 entered service in 2024 and its missile test was planned some time ago. The Hyunmoo-2B ballistic missile has a range of 500 kilometers and is launched from one of the six VLS tubes the new sub is equipped with. The VLS tube can also launch 1,500-kilometer range Hyunmoo-3C cruise missiles. During its sea trials Changho broke the record for the time an AIP equipped sub spent underwater. The duration of this feat was not released but since the current record is 18 days, the Changho had to stay under at least that long. It was implied that the South Korean sub remained submerged for over three weeks. In 2023 North Korea built a Cold War era Diesel-Electric Ballistic Missile/SBB boat that can ten carry ten smaller ballistic missiles North Korea already has. There were successful test launches from underwater barges containing the launch tube. This sub was based on the Russian Cold War era Romeo class boat. More recently North Korea revealed a cruise missile design for its subs. Meanwhile Russian SBBs were soon replaced by Nuclear Powered Ballistic Missile/SSBN subs. The U.S. developed Vertical Launch System/VLS technology in the 1970s and VLS tubes began showing up in destroyers and cruisers in the 1980s. Most NATO navies adopted it followed by China and Russia. South Korea is building nine 3,600-ton KSS-3 subs in batches of three. The second and third batches will each contain upgrades over the previous batch. All KSS 3 are high seas boats with endurance of 50 days, 18,000 kilometers range and top speed of 37 kilometers an hour underwater and 22 kilometers on the surface. These boats are built to regularly operate throughout the Pacific. The KSS 3 boats are highly automated, making it possible to get by with a crew of fifty. All are armed with eight 533mm torpedo tubes, four of them capable of launching Harpoon anti-ship missiles. KSS-3 Batch 1 has six VLS tubes for South Korean developed missiles while the last six subs will have ten VLS tubes. VLS tubes on diesel electric submarines are rare. China built an experimental Type 32 class boat in 2012 that had nine VLS tubes, three for ballistic missiles and six for cruise missiles. So far there has been no further work in that by China. A few years later Sweden designed an optional VLS capability for their new A26 subs which requires an additional 10-meter, 500-ton section with three vertical cylinders each containing six VLS tubes for carrying Tomahawk cruise missiles. This option is meant to attract export sales. A26s built for Sweden do not include it. South Korea is the only country with diesel-electric subs equipped with VLS tubes as standard. The U.S. Navy pioneered the development and use of VLS technology and in the 1980s began installing twelve VLS tubes in its last 31 6,000-ton Los Angeles class Nuclear Powered Attack Submarines/SSNs, then continued that in the subsequent 8,000-ton Virginia class. All this followed the late 1990s conversion of four older SSBN to replace the ballistic missiles with 154 Tomahawks. These submarine VLS launched Tomahawks have been used in combat regularly since then. Future Virginias will carry more VLS tubes. The larger Block 5 Virginias will have VLS tubes for 33 cruise missiles or a smaller number of even larger missiles in the new Virginia Payload Module section/VPM. The Navy currently expects to build 66 Virginias but the importance of the large and more heavily armed Block 5s may increase that to over 70 subs with most of those based on the Block 5. Blocks 1-4 of Virginia are all armed the same way but eight of the ten Block 5s have additional space to store and launch missiles and can carry 65 missiles and torpedoes, 75 percent more than earlier Virginias. This is accomplished by adding a VPM to the current design. This adds 25.6 meters to the length of the sub and increases displacement from 7,800 to 10,400 tons. The VPM adds four more of the large launch tubes that can hold different sizes of missiles. For example, each of the VPM launch tubes can carry seven Tomahawk cruise missiles or a smaller number of new missile designs in development, like the hypersonic missile. Earlier Virginias already had older individual launch tubes forward of the sail/conning tower. The VPM is added behind the sail. From July 30 to August 3, Oven Dor Restaurant will host Selera Malaysia, a vibrant Malaysian food festival spotlighting authentic dishes crafted by guest chefs from Berjaya Times Square Hotel Kuala Lumpur. The event offers diners a rare taste of Malaysias rich culinary heritage, right in the heart of Hanoi. Selera Malaysia is a collaborative effort between Sheraton Hanoi Hotel, Berjaya Times Square Hotel, the Embassy of Malaysia in Hanoi, and Tourism Malaysias Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, promoting cultural exchange and culinary tourism through authentic dining experiences. Speaking about the event, Nguyen Cong Chung, director of Food and Beverages cum Executive Chef at Sheraton Hanoi Hotel, said,"Cuisine is one of the most beautiful bridges between cultures. With Selera Malaysia, we are offering delicious dishes as well as a soulful journey through Malaysia's heritage - where each ingredient and cooking method tells a story. The participation of two guest chefs from Berjaya Times Square Hotel ensures an experience that is both authentic and memorable. We hope our guests will find joy, connection, and travel inspiration right at the dining table." 'Selera Malaysia' means 'the taste of Malaysia', inviting diners on a flavourful journey through the countrys rich multicultural heritage, presented through iconic dishes such as Ayam Masak Merah (chicken braised in a bold and spicy tomato sauce); Daging Rendang Dendeng (tender beef simmered in rich, aromatic rendang sauce); Ikan Goreng Assam Nyonya (crispy fried fish in tangy Peranakan-style tamarind sauce); and dozens of other hot dishes, grilled delights, and traditional desserts. Every ingredient and cooking technique is carefully selected and prepared to preserve the authenticity of Malaysian flavours, delivering a dining experience as genuine as if you were there. Joining the festival are two seasoned guest chefs from Malaysia, namely chef Mohd Mustaqim Bin S Samsudin and chef Ku Muhammad Gbrail Bin Ku Harifidilah. With a combined almost 30 years of experience in the hospitality and culinary industry between them, both chefs have built their careers working at renowned hotels across Malaysia and Brunei. Their profound knowledge of traditional Malaysian cuisine, combined with refined culinary techniques, promises to deliver authentic flavours alongside captivating live cooking performances that will elevate the dining experience at Oven Dor. Filipino And Korean food arriving at Sheraton Hanoi Hotel in June Oven Dor Restaurant at Sheraton Hanoi Hotel continually refreshes its culinary offerings in June with a variety of rich and creative themes, ensuring a unique dining experience for every visit. Hemispheres Steak And Seafood Grill nominated for prestigious award Hemispheres Steak and Seafood Grill, the renowned fine-dining restaurant at Sheraton Hanoi Hotel, has been nominated for the 2025 World Culinary Awards in the category of 'Vietnams Best Hotel Restaurant'. Hemispheres Steak & Seafood Grill recognised in Michelin Selected 2025 Hemispheres Steak & Seafood Grill, located within the grounds of Sheraton Hanoi Hotel beside the scenic West Lake, has been selected by the Michelin Guide for the third consecutive year under the Michelin Selected 2025 category. The rooftop solar segment is seeing growing opportunities. However, what are the key challenges that still need to be addressed? Pham Dang An, deputy general director of Vu Phong Energy Group Rooftop solar for self-consumption has shifted from being a secondary option to becoming an essential strategic asset, especially for export-oriented manufacturers. The EUs Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism is pushing Vietnamese exporters to decarbonise or risk losing market access, while domestic policy is moving in the same direction with more assertive environmental tax reforms and a firm commitment to net-zero. In this context, rooftop solar is no longer just about saving on energy bills it is a prerequisite for aligning with global supply chain standards and enhancing brand reputation. However, several challenges remain. Financing continues to be a major bottleneck; most factories cannot finance multi-megawatt rooftop systems from their own capital. While zero-capex or energy-as-a-service models help shift the upfront investment burden to developers like Vu Phong, the long-term bankability of these models still depends heavily on having predictable, long-term regulatory frameworks. Another key area is battery energy storage, which is vital to unlocking the full value of rooftop solar. Yet, scaling this segment requires three foundational pillars: high-resolution analytics for managing charge and discharge cycles, clear rules governing ownership and residual value of batteries, and a financing framework that recognises storage as critical infrastructure. What should manufacturers look for in energy partners to ensure bankable contracts, policy risk protection, and verifiable green power access? The upcoming direct power purchase agreement (DPPA) regime is set to reshape Vietnams clean energy landscape by allowing renewable energy producers to sell directly to large power users, moving away from the current single-buyer model. Vu Phong has been preparing to support manufacturers in taking full advantage of this new structure. Firstly, we are fast-tracking two solar-plus-storage projects with a combined capacity of about 150 MWp, strategically designed to match the expected demand from export-oriented factories. These projects are scheduled to become operational in the third quarter of 2026, aligning perfectly with the expected rollout of the national DPPA framework. Secondly, our energy-as-a-service team is developing tiered contract offerings that provide fixed, levelled electricity prices below projected grid tariffs, while also giving clients the option to include green features like bundled international renewable energy certificates and certified carbon offsets. Thirdly, we are managing risks by negotiating long-term VND-denominated financing with local banks and international financial institutions, thereby reducing foreign exchange risk for Vietnamese companies. We are also collaborating with insurers to provide protection against power curtailment and regulatory changes throughout the lifespan of the assets. Finally, Vu Phong is implementing a blockchain-based metering platform to offer real-time visibility into energy generation, consumption, and REC issuance. This ensures traceability and supports environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting and compliance with EU regulations. With a growing number of companies both local and foreign offering rooftop solar solutions, what are the key criteria that manufacturing enterprises should consider when selecting engineering, procurement, and construction or installation partners? When selecting, manufacturing firms should focus on six main criteria to ensure long-term value and regulatory compliance. Firstly, a bankable track record is essential; companies should prioritise partners that have completed multiple industrial-scale rooftop systems above 10MWp and can provide at least two years of audited performance data. Secondly, strong engineering capabilities and a commitment to safety are critical. This includes in-house expertise in solar simulation tools, structural assessments, and lightning protection. Thirdly, the quality and origin of components matter. Manufacturers should insist on Tier-1 equipment suppliers and long-term product and performance warranties, as well as access to local spare parts. Fourthly, integrated operations and maintenance services with 24/7 monitoring and predictive maintenance should be non-negotiable. Ideally, the partner should also offer cloud-based dashboards with API connectivity to support ESG and regulatory reporting. Fifthly, financial strength and contract flexibility are important, especially for projects using zero-capex or DPPA structures. A capable partner must be able to post performance bonds, handle policy-change risks and provide access to competitive funding. Finally, regulatory fluency and grid integration expertise are essential in a fast-evolving legal environment. Partners with active working relationships with Vietnam Electricity and provincial authorities can streamline the permitting process and future-proof systems for battery or DPPA upgrades. SmartSolar bags $1.85 million in seed funding SmartSolar, a Vietnam-based rooftop solar solution provider, has wrapped up a $1.85 million investment in its seed funding round, co-led by Picus Capital and 2degrees, with participation from Iterative. Procedure delays loom over solar ventures Though a newly issued electricity price framework offers a basis for initial financial calculations, investors remain cautious as multiple regulatory and procedural hurdles persist before projects can move forward. Vietnams position as a global manufacturing and export powerhouse continues to strengthen, but with international trade dynamics shifting rapidly, businesses now face a complex new layer of risk: tariffs. From the recent 20 per cent US import tariff on key Vietnamese goods to the potential for even stricter transshipment-related duties, exporters and manufacturers must move fast to stay competitive, compliant, and profitable. Global supply chains are more interconnected, and more vulnerable, than ever before. With new tariffs, regulatory shifts, and geopolitical pressures, relying on static spreadsheets or outdated customs assumptions can put businesses at a major disadvantage. To thrive in this environment, leading companies are turning to digital tariff modelling tools, platforms that enable real-time scenario planning, cost simulation, and risk analysis. A robust tariff modelling solution helps companies forecast the financial impact of tariff changes on products and markets. It enables businesses to adjust pricing, sourcing, and logistics strategies before risks materialise. Additionally, it supports ongoing compliance with complex regulations, particularly for exports bound for the US market. By leveraging automation and real-time updates, companies can also save time and reduce the risk of errors. Recognising this need, a new digital platform has been introduced in Vietnam to support exporters and foreign direct investment (FDI)-driven manufacturers. It is one of the first and most comprehensive tariff modelling tools available locally, offering tailored insights into US trade rules, ASEAN supply chain dynamics, and material origin risks. Key capabilities include simulating US tariff scenarios by analysing both current and future tariff rates such as 20 per cent or 40 per cent and assessing their impact on profit margins, pricing, and strategy. The solution also supports managing FDI supply chain risks by evaluating the impact of imported input materials, such as those from China, on compliance and cost competitiveness under US rules. Automated cost impact reports replace time-consuming manual calculations with instant analytics, allowing for faster, smarter decision-making. Additionally, the platform offers customisable, data-driven insights by integrating company-specific data with up-to-date global tariff information to generate accurate, executive-level reports. What truly differentiates this platform is not just its cutting-edge technology, but the depth of trade expertise that powers it. It enables businesses to make confident, data-driven decisions, replacing guesswork with clarity. This is achieved by combining in-depth knowledge of Vietnamese customs procedures and ASEAN trade agreements. It also offers direct access to US trade policy insights, creating a rare bridge between local operations and global compliance requirements. The result is more than a digital tool, its a strategic framework businesses can rely on to shape and sustain their long-term export growth. Whether you're a foreign investor manufacturing in Vietnam or a local exporter expanding into the US market, this is the time to future-proof your operations. Join KPMG Tariff Modeler Demo Workshop to see how this powerful tariff modelling platform can help your business gain clarity, save costs, and stay ahead of global trade shifts. Register here: Experience KPMG Tariff Modeler - First demo in Vietnam KPMG report offers fresh insight into leveraging AI KPMG in Vietnam presented its 2024 Vietnam Customer Experience Excellence (CEE) Report, based on insights from over 1,500 Vietnamese consumers, on December 19. ACCA and KPMG forge path for business leaders to pioneer ESG excellence The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and KPMG Vietnam signed an MoU in Hanoi on March 6, reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting sustainable development and driving prosperity for the Vietnamese business community. Delivering on this ambition is key to Vietnams energy security and economic resilience helping future-proof the economy against climate and financial shocks, fuelling clean industrial development, and attracting green investment. This green transition is foundational to achieving Vietnams dual goals of high-income status by 2045 and net-zero emissions by 2050. Globally, OSW is gaining momentum. According to the International Energy Agency, total installed capacity reached 83.2GW by the end of 2024, with 8GW added that year. Despite a temporary slowdown, the sector is expected to grow by 138GW between 2023 and 2028, with annual installations tripling by 2028. Vietnam is uniquely positioned to benefit from this OSW trajectory. With a long coastline and promising wind conditions, the country has exceptional potential for OSW generation and related supply chain manufacturing. A national target of up to 17GW of OSW capacity by 2035 reflects Vietnams ambition to become a major global renewables player. Given the nascency of OSW in Vietnam, PDP8 is clear in outlining plans to integrate OSW with other renewable sources onshore wind, solar, hydropower, and energy storage for a diversified energy mix. The United Kingdom is a long-standing partner in Vietnams clean energy transition journey and continues to deepen collaboration in OSW and renewables. With decades of experience in OSW development, the UK brings valuable technical and commercial expertise to support Vietnams pathway, in line with national plans. OSW is a key pillar of the broader UKVietnam green growth partnership. As co-chair of the International Partners Group for Vietnams Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), which is helping to mobilise over $15 billion in public and private finance for Vietnams green transition, the UK is working in tandem with international and domestic partners to bring our partnership to life. This includes technical support through the UK Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions programme on grid management, renewables and coal phase out, collaboration on an Offshore Wind Centre of Excellence via the UKs Carbon Trust, academic partnerships through the Climate Compatible Growth programme, and access to UK clean energy financing instruments, including through UK Export Finance, UK-supported development finance institutions, and commercial partnerships. However, we know that a stable and predictable investment environment is essential to turning Vietnams clean energy and OSW ambitions into reality. Clear regulations, consistent policies, and robust supply chains are critical to building investor confidence especially in emerging sectors like OSW. Through the JETP, Vietnam Energy Partners Forum and other established initiatives, the UK has been working closely with Vietnams Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) and relevant agencies to support business-friendly policy and regulatory reforms to unlock critical clean energy investment. And the recently revised Electricity Law, and the evolution from PDP7 to PDP8, reflect Vietnams commitment to embedding net-zero targets into core planning frameworks. Without predictable, legal and regulatory frameworks, the private sector will not have the assurance to move into nascent energy ventures making the finalisation of Vietnams OSW policy frameworks essential. To support this ambition, two growing areas of UKVietnam collaboration on OSW stand out. First is our support to the planned Offshore Wind Centre of Excellence in partnership with the MoIT and the Institute of Energy, which will serve as a knowledge hub to support research and development, address technical and skills gaps, and provide access to UK expertise to accelerate deployment. Second is on clean energy supply chain development. The UK brings world-class capabilities across the OSW lifecycle from project development and cable manufacturing to offshore construction and maintenance. A supply chain study led by the UKs Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult is exploring Vietnams strengths in manufacturing, port infrastructure, technical services, and innovation. The study will offer practical recommendations through workshops and stakeholder engagement. The catapults involvement reflects Vietnams growing market potential. Building on these partnerships and recent two-way knowledge sharing missions, a UK energy trade delegation will visit Vietnam in October. This mission will connect British companies with Vietnamese partners to explore commercial opportunities and share solutions aligned with the supply chain challenges identified in the catapults study. Across our JETP partnership, policy development, expertise sharing, and commercial collaboration, the UK and Vietnams clean energy partnership is only growing stronger. The next phase of Vietnams OSW development will be crucial to unlocking its full potential as a driver of green and resilient growth. Anna Gibson, climate counsellor British Embassy to Vietnam Thirteen years after Amazon first introduced robotics into its operations and reaching a significant milestone of one million active robots worldwide in fulfilment centres, Amazon's UK warehouses are expected to house as many robots as human workers within three yearsa transformation that experts warn could fundamentally alter the employment landscape for thousands of British workers. According to The Wall Street Journal, Amazon is also nearing a point where its US warehouses will employ more machines than people. Amazon now has over 750,000 robots deployed Each robot packer at a warehouse can replace 24 workers Packers cost $1 million each which only takes two years to recoup the cost pic.twitter.com/y2mWlgu3IE flint (@OrderflowES) June 30, 2024 Expert Warns of Impending Robot-Human Parity Dr. Amir Aly, from the Centre for Robotics and Neural Systems at the University of Plymouth, suggests that Amazon's projected 40 billion UK investment by 2028 indicates a significant increase in the use of robots. He states, 'The scale of investment indicates there will be a 1:1 ratio of humans to robots in the UK in the next one to three years. It's the money and technology advances that talk in the end.' Dr Amir suggested that the considerable financial input and the government's supportive stance indicate an agreement to foster a 'friendly regulatory environment.' Robots are already coming for warehouse workers. Amazon just revealed a new video showcasing their trial of humanoid robots in US warehouses: pic.twitter.com/RqRIjTNgV1 Rowan Cheung (@rowancheung) October 21, 2023 Professor Sethu Vijayakumar, a robotics expert at the University of Edinburgh, concurred that roles would diminish during the 'temporary friction' of the robotics revolution. He said, 'There will never be as many jobs once warehouses are automated.' What began as a modest experiment in warehouse automation has evolved into something resembling a science fiction film. Walking through Amazon's modern facilities today, you'll witness an orchestrated dance between man and machine, though increasingly, the machines are taking centre stage. The scale of this transformation is staggering. Consider this: in 2015, each Amazon employee managed to ship roughly 175 packages. Today, that figure has rocketed to 3,870 packages per workera twenty-fold increase that tells the story of how dramatically robotics has reshaped productivity expectations. Amazon's Stance: Robots Augment, Not Replace Amazon refutes these claims, highlighting its increased hiring in the UK over the past decade, with employee numbers rising from 7,800 to around 70,000. Xavier Van Chau, from Amazon's robotics team, stated that instead of replacing workers, the company has trained 700,000 people to operate robots. He maintained that the company's goal is to free workers from repetitive tasks, 'adding value, not replacing humans.' Investing in the Workforce: Upskilling for the Future Since 2019, Amazon has invested in its workforce, helping to upskill over 700,000 employees through various training initiatives. This includes 51,000 individuals in the UK, with many of these programmes specifically designed to prepare staff for working with advanced technologies. Amazon recently announced its intention to open four new fulfilment centres across the UK. These new facilities will create 60 different types of roles, including specialised positions for robotics technicians and mechatronic engineers. A Decade of Robotic Evolution: From Kiva to Amazon Robotics Amazon's venture into robotics began in 2012 with the deployment of its first robot, designed to transport inventory shelves within warehouses. This marked a key moment, stemming from Amazon's acquisition of Boston-based Kiva Systems, a company later rebranded as Amazon Robotics. This acquisition highlighted Amazon's dedication to advancements in AI and automation. Today, the company utilises a varied fleet of robots, all designed to simplify tasks, improve employee safety, and enhance operational efficiency. Reaching a Milestone: Amazon Deploys its Millionth Robot Thirteen years after Amazon first introduced robotics into its operations, the company has reached a significant milestone: one million robots are now active across its worldwide network of fulfilment centres. Amazon announced that its millionth robot was deployed at a fulfilment centre in Japan in June 2025. Amazon's robotic workforce isn't just growingit's becoming increasingly sophisticated. Hercules robots now shoulder loads weighing up to 1,250 pounds. Proteus units navigate warehouse floors alongside human colleagues with remarkable precision. The newest addition, Vulcan, possesses something approaching a sense of touch, using six-axis force sensors to handle delicate items. These aren't the clunky industrial robots of previous decades. They're sleek, intelligent, and increasingly capable of tasks once thought to require human judgement and dexterity. The Ripple Effect Across Britain Amazon's automation surge isn't happening in isolation. Competitors like Walmart and Alibaba are scrambling to match these technological advances. What begins in Amazon's warehouses today will likely spread across the entire logistics sector tomorrow. The company's 40 billion investment will undoubtedly create some jobsrobotics technicians, mechatronic engineers, system analysts. But these highly skilled positions number in the hundreds, whilst the traditional warehouse roles being automated away count in the thousands. The reality is this: we're witnessing the early stages of a fundamental shift in how goods move from seller to buyer, and human labour is increasingly becoming optional rather than essential. Originally published on IBTimes UK Thousands still waiting years for treatment in Wales, new figures show The number of patients facing the longest waits for NHS treatment has risen despite recent Welsh Government action. In May, there were just under 10,300 open pathways waiting longer than two years, according to new figures a 6.5% rise on the previous month. It marks a reversal of recent progress which saw two-year waits fall in March to just under 8,400, the lowest level since April 2021. The Welsh Government had set a target to eliminate two-year waits in most specialities by March 2023 a target it has continually missed. The fall in waits in the spring followed a Welsh Government investment of 50 million to cut waiting times, which have continued to soar since the coronavirus pandemic. As a result, more treatments and tests have been delivered across NHS Wales through evening and weekend appointments, regional working between health boards and renewed efforts to increase access to planned care. Despite this, in May there were just over 796,100 patients waiting to start treatment, an increase of around 6,200 since April. The number of open pathways is not the same as the number of patients on a waiting list, as some patients will be waiting to start more than one treatment. In May there were about 614,300 individual patients on treatment waiting lists. There were just over 75,500 pathways waiting longer than one year for their first outpatient appointment. Health Secretary Jeremy Miles said it was disappointing to see the longest waits for treatment rise, but that he was confident Wales will see a significant reduction in the August figures. Ambulance response times The number of people waiting more than an hour to transfer from an ambulance into an emergency department in Wales fell by almost a fifth in June. Handover delays have continued to hamper ambulance response times. In June, around 15,300 hours were lost due to handover delays. In the past year, the number of hours lost to handover delays has quadrupled compared with 2017. In the same month, 50.7% of immediately life-threatening (category red) calls received a response within the eight-minute target. This was 0.7 percentage points higher than the previous month, but remains well below the Welsh Governments target of 65% of red calls receiving a response within the target time. Throughout June there were 5,096 red calls to the ambulance service, the equivalent of 15.1% of all calls. Emergency departments More than 96,000 people attended an emergency department in Wales during June an average of 3,210 visits per day. Of this figure, just under 15,200 patients were admitted from major emergency departments. The Welsh Government target requires that 95% of patients should spend less than four hours in an emergency department, from arrival until admission, transfer or discharge. But in June, 66.3% of patients spent less than four hours in an emergency department. In North Wales, 58% of patients were seen within the four hour target time. At the Wrexham Maelor Hospital, just 38.1% of patients spent less than the target time in an emergency department. This was the second worst in Wales, with 31.3% of attendees Ysbyty Glan Clwyd being seen within four hours. At the regions third major emergency department Ysbyty Gwynedd 56.4% were seen within the target time. Against the eight hour target, 67.1% were seen at the Wrexham Maelor Hospital and 78.5% were seen within 12 hours. Political response Plaid Cymru health spokesperson, Mabon ap Gwynfor MS, said the NHS in Wales is in need of a fresh start. Seeing the longest waits rise yet again will be a matter of great disappointment to the people of Wales. Over 26 years in charge of our NHS, Labour has let Wales down, said Mabon. After throwing hundreds of millions at tackling waiting lists, and failing, its clear that Labours time is up. Our NHS is in crisis, and it needs a fresh start. James Evans MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care said: The latest figures prove Labours health strategy is failing and the so-called progress they celebrated recently was just a flash in the pan. Progress is in reverse and its clear that this Welsh Government has run out of ideas. No one should be waiting over a year for treatment. Health Secretary Jeremy Miles said: Todays figures show that our focus on improving ambulance patient handover performance is working, with handover times in June the lowest since September 2021. With improvements in same-day emergency care and patient flow in place, significant progress is being made in most areas of Wales. Staff across Wales work hard day in, day out, to provide the best possible care for patients and I want to thank them for their continued efforts and the improvements we are seeing. Weve recently set up a national, clinically-led taskforce to support these efforts and have been clear with health boards about our expectations. Picture: Stock image JULY 28, 2025 Four suspects charged in the May vandalism of Reno High School appeared in court on Monday. Some of the suspects were in court for status hearings, while some entered pleas, according to sources from the courtroom. The suspects appearing in court on Monday included Brady Smith, Isabella Russell, Wylder May, and Reagan Jaksick. So far, all suspects who have entered pleas have pleaded not guilty to all charges. The Washoe County District Attorney's Office also filed an updated indictment in the case on Monday. It includes seven names instead of eight, and comes days after the D.A. and Washoe County School District Police Chief Seana Baker revealed in a joint statement that one of the suspects who was charged as an adult was a juvenile at the time of the crime. JULY 25, 2025 The Washoe County District Attorney's Office has released a statement saying they mistakenly charged a minor as an adult in a case involving vandalism at Reno High School. In a joint statement with Washoe County School District Police Chief Seana Baker, the D.A.'s Office said one of the alleged perpetrators of the vandalism was actually 17 the day it happened, turning 18 the day after. "We are taking immediate steps to correct the record and transfer the matter accordingly," they said in the statement. The person in question will have their case moved to the Juvenile Court. JULY 17, 2025 Six of the eight people indicted for vandalism at Reno High School appeared in court on Thursday. Three of the six people, including Devyn Maaka, Owen Shuff, and Aral Unlu, entered not guilty pleas. Meanwhile, Reagan Jacksick, Isabella Russell, and Brady Smith had their arraignments continued to Monday, July 28, as defense counsel argued they needed more time to review the grand jury transcript. July 28 is the same day that the remaining two people indicted, Korbin Depaepe and Wylder May, will be arraigned. JULY 14, 2025 Eight suspects charged in connection with vandalism at Reno High School this past May are all expected to appear in court together this Thursday. Korbin Depaepe, Reagan Jacksick, Devyn Maaka, Wylder May, Isabella Russell, Owen Shuff, Brady Smith, Aral Unlu are all expected to be formally charged in Second Judicial District Court early Thursday afternoon. Washoe County District Attorney Chris Hicks encourages the suspects to turn themselves in last Friday or face an arrest warrant. During the same press conference, Hicks announced that a total of 27 people were identified in the vandalism case, but some are minors while others will be cited. The above named eight suspects were indicted by a grand jury. JULY 11, 2025 Washoe County District Attorney Chris Hicks on Friday announced that they have identified a total of 27 people in the recent Reno High vandalism case. The district attorneys office was joined by with Washoe County School District and WCSD police to discuss the May 22nd incident. DA Hicks announced that the investigation was completed on June 30 totaling 100 pages, 30 hours of video and 27 suspect interviews. Of the 27, eight people were indicted by a grand jury (you can read the document below). Korbin Depaepe Reagan Jacksick Devyn Maaka Wylder May Isabella Russell Owen Shuff Brady Smith Aral Unlu Most of the people were charged with one or multiple counts of obstruction to property for educational purposes. Unlu was charged with one count of willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. This is because he is accused of lighting a tire on fire and rolling towards people. Hicks says they did not have enough sufficient evidence to charge arson. Hicks wants those suspects to turn themselves in with an arraignment to be scheduled later. Suspects are encouraged to turn themselves in or make arrangements to do so with the Washoe County School Police by 5 p.m. on Friday if they can't meet that deadline, they are asked to turn themselves into the Washoe County Jail sometime this weekend. If they don't do that, then a warrant will be issued for an arrest. Hicks says the grand jury proceedings are confidential and couldn't discuss evidence in the proceedings, but in the next 10 days the transcripts will be public record. The DA says they went the grand jury route because Hicks says it benefits the prosecution in a lot of ways with a case with multiple defendants. Without the indictment, arrest warrants would be issued and everything would have to go through the Reno Justice Court first with preliminary hearings before it makes its way to the Second Judicial District Court. "Takes us right to court where we will be handling all the proceedings," Hick said. Once the suspects turn themselves in, arraignments will be schedule and criminal proceedings will begin from there. 12 others who entered the school but did not cause any damage will still be charged and cited with trespassing, and an additional seven juveniles were involved and will be prosecuted through the juvenile justice system. No further information will be released on the underage juveniles due to the confidentiality imposed by Nevada Law. The 12 cited with trespassing are: Skylah Carithers Kai Christensen Fisher Current Amelia Mia Custer Lucas Ford Erica Hooks Sydney Jaksick Elias Jara Bhavisha Bhavi Patil Ariel Perez Flavia Rosi Yoselin Salazar Soto Hicks added that there were three people charged that were not enrolled at Reno High School. He also said that there were still some other potential suspects, but they didn't have enough evidence to charge them. Investigators spent more than 10 hours doing walk-throughs in the school surveying the damage, which totaled $6,000. "I've been a prosecutor in this community for 23 years and I have not seen a case of this breadth in terms of number of defendants and attention drawn by the community," Hicks said on Friday. In regard to the Nazi symbolism, the DA said there's not much they can do about it. "The last thing we ever want to see in our schools, it's disgusting, but there is not a crime we can charge for that," he said. Hicks says the Nevada Revised Statute does not have criminal charges for the way that act was done. However, he says it will definitely be considered at sentencing. The Washoe County School District says they are going to put its foot down on future senior pranks. "Senior pranks will not be tolerated, the senior pranks have gone significantly too far," said Joe Ernst, WCSD Superintendent. "I think people can remember back a time where there might have been something that was far lesser as far as a prank that occurred." Statements have been released from Beth Smith, the President of the Washoe County School District Board of Trustees and Joe Ernset, the Washoe County School District Superintendent. The statement from President Smith reads: "Todays announcement brings a sense of closure to a deeply upsetting event that affected Reno High School, the Washoe County School District, and the entire community. The crimes that occurred werent just property damagethey were an attack on a place that means so much to students, staff, families, and alumni. We are grateful to our WCSD School Police and District leadership for working quickly and thoroughly to identify those responsible. At the Washoe County School District, we believe strongly in accountabilitybut we also believe in growth and learning. Our hope is that those involved will use this as an opportunity to reflect, take responsibility, and ultimately make better choices in the future." Superintendent Joe Ernst had the following to say: "Todays announcement from the District Attorney is an important step. We are glad to see those involved in the incident at Reno High School being held accountable through the legal system. The school district also took disciplinary action based on each individuals level of involvement, and together, were making it clear: this kind of behavior has real consequences. What happened was disturbing and deeply disappointing. Its been hard on students, families, and staffespecially at Reno High. But I want to be clear: this does not represent who we are as a school district, or what we stand for. I am grateful to our WCSD School Police and to DA Chris Hicks and his office for the time and care they put into this investigation and the pursuit of justice. It was not easy work, and it was done right. We will continue doing everything we can to make sure our schools are safe, respectful places where all students can learn and feel safe, supported, and respected. JUNE 6, 2025: More than 30 people have now been identified in the recent Reno High vandalism case. The WCSD says there are two separate but parallel investigations: a criminal investigation by the WCSD School Police Department and an administrative investigation by WCSD. These investigations are extensive and ongoing. The investigations have identified 30+ people connected to the incident. The WCSD says not all of the people are students at Reno High School. The WCSD says as a result of the administrative investigation, disciplinary actions continue to be taken based on each person's level of involvement. Consequences range from suspension from classes for the remainder of the school year to the loss of privileges, including but not limited to the ability to participate in graduation ceremonies. Due to federal privacy laws, the WCSD is not able to share specific numbers or identities of students who have been disciplined. Prior to the incident, the WCSD says hundreds of students were on campus for scheduled senior activities. Most people left when the planned activities concluded; however, a large group later returned, causing the damage. Officers are interviewing witnesses and people involved, reviewing footage from more than 40 surveillance cameras, looking at social media to identify potential witnesses, reviewing cell phone videos, following up on anonymous tips, and analyzing other evidence. MAY 29, 6:20 P.M. UPDATE: An investigation into vandalism at Reno High School has resulted in the identification and disciplining of multiple individuals involved in the acts. In a message to families, Reno High School Principal Mike Nakashima said those students and their families have been notified of disciplinary action, including suspension for the remainder of the school year and a loss of privileges, including the ability to participate in graduation ceremonies. Federal privacy laws prevent the school from revealing the exact number of people who have been disciplined. The actions taken by the school are different from the criminal investigation being conducted by School Police, which is ongoing, the principal said. He also said that people with information that may be helpful can share it via SafeVoice. --- MAY 29, 10:40 A.M. UPDATE: The Washoe County School District has created a webpage to update the community about the ongoing investigation into Reno High's vandalism. Superintendent Joe Ernst says, "WCSD School Police are conducting a comprehensive review of all available evidence. The investigation requires careful examination of multiple witnesses, suspects, and extensive video surveillance, which takes time." Although Reno City councilman Devon Reese previously estimated damage at $100,000+, Ernst says a full assessment and "cost of repairs is still being completed. Any dollar amount that may exist publicly is premature at this time." Once the investigation is complete, those involved could either be disciplined by school officials, or criminally cited or charged, dependent on a review by the Washoe County District Attorney's Office. From there, criminal punishment will be decided by the suspect(s) age. If they are under 18, those involved will be handled by the juvenile justice system - and if they are over 18, they will go through the adult criminal system, which could mean public trials and possible imprisonment. Ernst says the WCSD has received many anonymous tips they continue to follow up on and offer options for people to offer information - Reach out to School Police via phone, email, or in person to provide information (775-348-0285). Call the SafeVoice hotline at 1-833-216-SAFE (7233) to speak with trained professionals available 24/7. You can read more below - May 27, 2025: Reno High School's principal says that counseling and support is now available for students after last week's vandalism. In a message sent to families, Principal Mike Nakashima added that the investigation remains ongoing - after Reno City councilman Devon Reese said that vandals caused $100,000 in damage at the high school last week. "I have full faith and confidence in the investigation being conducted by our Washoe County School District School Police, and those who perpetrated these acts against our school will be held accountable..." He ended his message reminding families of the school's 'core values': respect, honor and strength. "Let us move forward together with clarity, accountability, and compassion. We will take steps to ensure our school remains a place of learning, not of hate. And to those who feel hurt or targetedwe see you, we support you, and we will stand with you. ...This is our RHS community. Let us honor it with our actions." If you have any information that can help authorities, call or text your anonymous tip to Secret Witness at 775-322-4900. You can read Principal Nakashima's full message below - May 26. 2025: A Reno City councilman says he's calling for a full investigation after vandals caused $100,000+ in damage at Reno High School last week. On Facebook, Devon Reese (Ward 5) says, "This is not who we are as a city, and it will not be tolerated. I am calling for a full investigation and will support any measures necessary to hold those responsible accountable. Our schools must be places of learning and inclusionnot fear and hate." Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve agreed in her own statement saying that the vandalism involving racial slurs and extreme property damage is absolutely unacceptable and has no place in our city. I want to make it clear: this behavior does not reflect the values of our community. She went on to say that Reno Police is providing resources to the Washoe County School District Police. We will not tolerate acts of hate in our city, and we will send a clear and united message that Reno stands against racism and discrimination in all forms. If you have any information that can help authorities, call or text your anonymous tip to Secret Witness at 775-322-4900. May 24, 2025: The Washoe County School District has released a statement regarding the recent vandalism and damage at Reno High School. In the release, Superintendent Joe Ernst and Board President Beth Smith say they are "deeply disturbed and disheartened by the recent vandalism." You can find the full text of the statement below: "The Washoe County School District unequivocally condemns hate speech in all forms within our schools. Our educational institutions must be places where every student, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or background, feels safe, valued, and respected. Hate speech undermines the very principles of inclusion, respect, and equality that are central to the mission of our schools and our guiding principles. We are deeply disturbed and disheartened by the recent vandalism at Reno High School. Such actions are criminal and are an attack on the values of respect, honor, and strength for which Reno High School stands. The Washoe County School District School Police is continuing its thorough investigation. The safety and well-being of our students, staff, and families remain our top priority. The district has and will continue to provide support, resources and counseling services to those impacted by these acts." The district is asking anyone who may have information about the break-in or vandalism to contact Washoe County School District Police through Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900. Original Story (5/23/2025, 11:54 a.m.): Reno High School officials canceled the senior assembly scheduled for Friday following an overnight break-in and acts of vandalism on campus. The Washoe County School District notified parents and guardians about the incident in a Connect Ed call, stating that the break-in is under investigation and the school is working with local authorities to identify those responsible. While the damage is being assessed and cleaned up, certain areas of the school will remain closed, the school stated. Classes will continue as scheduled, and officials said they are taking necessary steps to restore full operations. The safety and security of our students and staff remains our top priority, the message continued. School administrators said they understand the significance of senior events and will provide updates on alternative plans for the assembly in the coming days. The president of the Washoe School Board, Beth Smith, recently posted a statement to Facebook regarding the vandalism, saying: "Hate symbolism and racial slurs have no place in our schools. The recent acts of vandalism and destruction at Reno High School are unacceptable and deeply hurtful. I stand united with our community against racism and antisemitism. Parents, please use this as an opportunity to talk openly with your kids so they understand the impact of hate and our shared responsibility to fiercely denounce it in every form." This is a developing story - we will update you with new information as it becomes available. UPDATE July 29 at 1:25 P.M.: New details have been released regarding the crash involving a train and a car on Monday afternoon at the Tahoe Reno Industrial Center. According to the Storey County Sheriffs Office, deputies were dispatched to the scene around 4:07 p.m. When they arrived, they found a single heavily damaged car approximately 200 feet east of Waltham Way, positioned next to a stopped train. The cars driver, the sole occupant, was injured and transported by Care Flight to a local hospital. The driver was transported to the hospital and placed in their Intensive Care Unit with non-life-threatening injuries. Witnesses told deputies the driver had been stuck in traffic and came to a stop on the railroad tracks. As the train approached, the crossing arms, lights, and warning bells activated, but the driver was unable to move the car before it was hit. No one aboard the train was injured. The train staff were cooperative during the investigation. These details were shared by the Storey County Sheriffs Office in a Facebook post on Tuesday afternoon. UPDATE July 28 at 10:30 P.M.: The scene of a crash involving a car and a train at the Tahoe Reno Industrial Center had been cleared, the Nevada Department of Transportation reports. Waltham Way, which had been closed in both directions at the scene of the crash, has since reopened. ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Multiple agencies are on the scene of a crash involving a train and a car at the Tahoe Reno Industrial Center. Injuries have been reported. It happened on Waltham Way near Wild Horse Canyon Drive, according to a Facebook post from the Storey County Sheriff's Office. The Nevada Department of Transportation is reporting that the crash happened just after 4:07 p.m. Waltham Way is closed in both directions, and people are asked to avoid the area and expect significant delays. The SCSO and firefighters are on the scene of the crash. The extent of injuries in the crash and the damage done to the car and train are unknown at this time. We have a crew heading to the scene to gather additional details and will provide them as soon as they are available.